Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 3) Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon on Wednesday challenged Malacanang to prove its claim that members of the opposition Liberal Party (LP) were plotting to remove President Rodrigo Duterte from office. "I challenge Malacanang, particularly Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque to file charges against LP members who are allegedly in cahoots with the communists to overthrow the government," he declared. Drilon said Malacanang's credibility was "at stake for issuing baseless allegations that are later denied by the military." Armed Forces Chief Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. earlier told a Senate hearing that LP President Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan" was not part of the so-called "Red October" plot of the communist movement to overthrow the Duterte administration. Pangilinan even asked Galvez at a hearing Tuesday if any of the party's members were in a coalition with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). Galvez replied, "none." In a briefing on the same day, Roque dismissed Galvez's statements and insisted that although there might not be a agreement between LP and the CPP, individual members could be working with the Left. Drilon said Galvez's statement should "put the issue to rest" and slammed the administration for political harassment of its critics. Armed Forces Spokesman Edgar Arevalo said details of Red October would be revealed at the appropriate time. He said this included information that the CPP had recruited students from 10 universities in Metro Manila into the ouster plot. READ: AFP official: CPP recruits in Manila schools through martial law film screenings An Ethiopian coffee ceremony will take at least a few hours, but thats the point. Its conducted for groups and used as a means to connect, bless and attract luck for the participants. The ceremony starts with washing green coffee beans before roasting them over open flame. While the beans roast, the person conducting the ceremony usually a woman in traditional Ethiopian dress walks around the group of people hold the hot pan, wafting the smoke and aroma through the room. To bring more good luck upon yourself, you should fan the smoke toward you, suggests Selot Zewdie, owner of Buna Time Cafe. (Buna Time Cafe recently closed its storefront but Zewdie is planning on opening another. In the meantime, shes creating home kits so people can conduct the ceremony themselves.) Next, the beans are ground as finely as espresso, and added to a jebena, a clay spouted container, with water and placed back on the flame. While the coffee brews, guests traditionally munch on popcorn, peanuts or other similar snacks while waiting. The jebena is removed when it starts steaming. Its placed on a holder, tilting the container for a few minutes so the water separates from the grounds. The coffee is served with sugar, salt or butter and is enjoyed in three rounds, signifying luck, wealth and health. Its a process that brings people together, said Zewdie. facebook.com/bunatimecafe New Provincial Police commander arrives in Phuket PHUKET: The new Phuket Provincial Police commander arrived in Phuket yesterday officially starting his duties at the Phuket Provincial Police Station in the afternoon. police By Tanyaluk Sakoot Wednesday 3 October 2018, 12:29PM The new provincial police commander, Maj Gen Wisan Panmanee (left), is welcomed at the Phuket Provincial Police Station. Photo: The new commander, Maj Gen Wisan Panmanee was previously the commander of the Phetchaburi Provincial Police and replaces previous commander Maj Gen Teeraphol Thipjaroen. Maj Gen Teeraphol confirmed to The Phuket News today (Oct 3), I have talked to Maj Gen Wisan about all Phukets issues and passed over all my outstanding case files to him yesterday(Oct 2). Maj Gen Teeraphol declined to reveal any specific issue that he advised Maj Gen Wisan to focus on, but he did say, It is the same as anywhere, it is the polices duty to work for the people. Special issues depended on the subject and situation. But I repeated to him to put his heart into tourism safety. Now I have started my new position as Deputy Commander of Region 8 Police. I dont have any specific issue to focus on right now. All work will came from my commander, Maj Gen Teeraphol. Tour firms up in arms over Maya Bay closure PHUKET: The indefinite closure of Maya Bay, which was confirmed to The Phuket News yesterday (Oct 2), has drawn immediate protests from tour operators according to the Bangkok Post. environmentpollutionmarine By The Phuket News Wednesday 3 October 2018, 09:11AM Maya Bay will be closed indefinitely according to the DNP. Photo: Bangkok Post / File The world-renowned tourist attraction, set within the Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park, has been closed to visitors since June 1 and was initially set to reopen on Oct1, a date that was then extended to Nov 1. (See story here.) As reported by The Phuket News yesterday, officials from the Department of National Parks (DNP) in Bangkok have declared Maya Bay, including Loh Samah Bay, a tourist no-go zone until the marine environment improves to their satisfaction. The announcement came in a letter from the DNP dated Sept 28 and posted on the Facebook page of Director General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Thaya Netithammakun on Monday (Oct 1). Speaking to The Phuket News yesterday (Oct 2), Chief of the Hat Nopparat-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park Worapoj Lomlim confirmed, The closure of Loh Samah and Maya bays was reconsidered again on Sept 25. Many officials including experts from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and others including in particular marine biologist Thon Thamrongnawasawat were involved in this meeting. The decision they reached was set out in an official letter dated Sept 28. He repeated, Tourist will not be allowed at Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay. (See story here.) The announcement brought howls of protest from tour firms and related businesses in Krabi reports the Bangkok Post. (See story here.) Wattrapol Chanthararo, chairman of the Koh Phi Phi Tourism Business Club, said the closure of Maya Bay would certainly affect tourism on the island as a whole. Authorities did not seek the views of any local residents before making the decision. Tourists who already booked tour packages to visit the bay during dates after the closure would not be able to enter the area. This would affect tourism not just on Koh Phi Phi, but also in Krabi province in general, he said. Mr Wattrapol also said he will call a meeting of club members on Oct 8 or 9 to discuss ways around the problems caused by the closure. Watertown episode of HBO's 'We're Here' airs Monday After filming an episode of "We're Here" in Watertown this summer, HBO is ready to air the state's first episode Monday. As temperatures drop, our craving for comforting, hearty dishes heats up. Appropriately, Food & Dining is spending October hunting down Chicago's best noodle dishes, from Italian pastas to Japanese ramen and everything in between. Follow along as we unveil our picks. We'll add a new noodle each day of the month. (Chicago Tribune staff) Earlier this month, Thermopolis-Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Meri Ann Rush attended Wyoming Working Together, presented by the Wyoming Economic Development Association, the Wyoming State Chamber of Commerce and the Wyoming Main Street. All three of the organizations get toge... We want. Want to know something even cooler about the coins? The Royal Australian Mint worked with The Questacon National Science and Technology Centre to charge the ten special coins with 3,500,000 volts of electricity, using a Tesla coil. The coins literally are as high voltage as they get. Fucking dope. In a statement made by Royal Australian Mint chief executive officer Ross MacDiarmid, AC/DC is famous for their electrifying energy. Its in their music, the titles of some of their songs, even their insignia. He continued. "We werent sure what effect the lightning would have on the coins, but we discovered that because the coins are such excellent conductors of electricity, the lightnings mark is only visible under magnification. Striking these 10 coins with lightning adds a uniquely AC/DC element to this release. To help the 10 lucky customers identify their Thunderstruck coins, we have added unique frosting to the coins AC/DC logo. In addition to the coins, The Mint has issued a nickel-plated $5 coin shaped like a guitar pick and decorated with the band's classic logo. Customers who ordered this will also receive a real guitar pick, and it will arrive in an amp-shaped box. Prior to the release of the posthumous Tom Petty box set An American Treasure, a stream of Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers 'Gainesville' was shared online. Yesterday, a beautiful music video made from archival Tom Petty footage, appeared on YouTube. The tune pays tribute to Petty's home town, and was recorded way back in 1999 during the Echo sessions. Producer Ryan Ulyate explained the track to Rolling Stone, revealing: "Echo is supposedly his dark album but Gainesville is this guy looking back on this early life." It is very self-referential from a guy who has some nostalgia for a simpler time. I love the song. Its just great, but I can see how it didnt necessarily fit the vibe of Echo. WATCH: Tom Petty releases "Keep a Little Soul" music video, posthumously Get your grubby hands on a copy of Tom Petty's An American Treasure here. EDMONTONDont worry, Calgary reinforcements are on their way. After a whopping 25 centimetres of heavy, wet snow blanketed the city to the south Tuesday, surprising residents and snarling traffic, the mayor of Edmonton pledged 30 plows to help dig Calgarians out. In a tweet Tuesday afternoon, Mayor Don Iveson said the plows and their drivers will be hitting Highway 2 later in the day, though according to a spokesperson, it wont be convoy-style, as theyre leaving as equipment and personnel are made available. Hey, Mayor Nenshi, I heard it snowed a little in Calgary and you needed a little help and wanted to borrow some plows, Iveson said in a video included in the tweet. Anything for a neighbour, Iveson said, as he climbed in the cab of a plow. Environment Canada issued a snowfall warning for Calgary and much of southwestern Alberta Monday night, which remained in effect Tuesday. The weather agency forecast 10 to 25 centimetres of snow overnight, but says Calgary International Airport had 16 centimetres by 5 a.m. Tuesday. Read more: Snow kidding: Calgarians slog through streets after heavy, wet snowfall The City of Calgary tweeted at 6:30 a.m. that it was going to take time to clear major roads. Crews have been out working on the major routes all night but, with heavy accumulations of snow falling in a very short period, progress has been slow, the city said. Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi was quick to respond to Edmontons gesture, tweeting a thank you to our great neighbours, adding the two cities are quick to share resources to bring down costs for everyone, and that it was lucky one city was hit hard and the other spared. But tell me they didnt give Don the keys. With files from The Canadian Press Read more about: EDMONTONA new report says Edmonton has the second-highest rate of reported sexual assaults in the country, but behind the numbers could be the widening influence of the #MeToo movement. The statistics, put together in the annual Vital Signs report by the Edmonton Community Foundation, say the citys reported rate of sexual assaults saw a 13 per cent spike over 2016. In the first seven months of 2017, there were 540 people who reported being sexually assaulted to police, 63 more than for the same time period in 2016. Edmonton now sits below Winnipeg for the highest amount of reported sexual assaults in a major city, with a rate of 72 for every 100,000 people, also beating out the national average of 58. But the story behind the statistics may not be a grim one, said the executive director of the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton, Mary Jane James. Since the #IBelieveYou campaign and the #MeToo campaign, and all of the other spotlights on the various accusations that are going around, in some way or another, people are feeling more confident and empowered in coming forward to tell their story, and I wouldnt necessarily attribute it to more sexual assaults taking place. The latest high-profile event related to #MeToo is the ongoing Brett Kavanaugh nomination hearings in the United States. After being nominated to the Supreme Court, the judge came under fire last month for allegations that he had sexually assaulted a woman when the two were in high school. James said high-profile events like this and the resulting social media movements have made it easier for men and women who are victims of sexual assault to come forward with their stories. The centre is under pressure every day, she said. Her team of 15 psychologists see about 60 people every day and they take around eight calls per day from people seeking counselling services. Calls to the centres crisis line have been increasing as well. But I wouldnt necessarily be able to draw a straight line between that and more sexual assaults taking place in our city, she said. According to the reports statistics based on data from the centre, 83 per cent of women living with disabilities experience sexual assault, and so do 57 per cent of Aboriginal women. James said with a high Indigenous population, the Edmonton numbers will reflect that as well. Alcohol and drug consumption among young people, coupled with an at-times transient population in the city from the oil industry, can lead to higher instances of sexual assault, especially in the 18 to 24 age group, said James. Only eight to 10 per cent of sexual violence incidences are ever reported, period, she said. So when you think of the staggering numbers of people that we see you can only imagine how many individuals there are out there suffering in silence. Last year, James said the centre was the recipient of provincial funding that went out to all sexual assault centres in Alberta. This has helped take some of the pressure off, but you can only throw so much cash to a problem in terms of the intervention side. I think where our focus needs to be as a community, as a government, as individuals, is on the prevention side, said James. Her organization is working on the front lines of the issue and continually sees myths, victim blaming, and lacking resources within public education which all need to be addressed to tackle the prevalence of sexual assault. James said too often she sees people come forward only to be shamed away, and while she says she respects the justice system and the job it does, she thinks more compassion for people coming forward is paramount. Its very, very unfortunate that we jump to conclusions that someone shoulda, coulda, woulda done something differently, she said. Until it happens to you, you have no idea what that process is and we should at least give those people out there the respect they deserve in following their journey on their own timeline. The annual report focuses on various groups of people in the city, and this year it focused on women, sexual orientation and gender identity, visible minority women, and senior women. The data indicated the gender pay gap is still prevalent in Edmonton, with men having a median annual income of $53,240, and women having a median of $33,340. The report said encouraging women to get into the trades could help close the gap since it will help them earn better wages. However, in yearly earnings, women working full-time jobs in Canada make just over $0.74 for every dollar that full-time men make, the report said. Read more about: Amabile and Johnson scored 17 out of 30 for their foxtrot on Monday, bringing them to a total score of 35 out of 60 for this week. That was the lowest score of the 12 contestant pairs. Paralympic alpine skier Danelle Umstead and Artem Chigvintsev, who scored 37 out of 60, were sent home Tuesday. Finding it hard to keep up with the Kardashians? NBCUniversals Hendrik McDermott has the answer. The Canadian got his start in the media business as an analyst for Rogers Media in Toronto. One mission was to figure how best to increase and retain subscribers for Macleans, Canadas national news magazine. Decades later, that old school print training has served him well, even as legacy media, including the Star, adopt a subscription model in a digital world. After stints in the U.K. and the U.S., the NBCUniversal International executive returned home this week not just to have lunch with his parents, which was a bonus but also to launch reality streaming service hayu (pronounced hey-you), which officially debuts in Canada Thursday and features complete series of reality shows from the Comcast library such as Keeping Up With the Kardashians. The publishing business is quite similar to the video-on-demand industry, especially magazine publishing, which has a recurring subscription model, says McDermott, who is the managing director of the service. After launching in 2016, first in the U.K. with rollouts in Ireland, Australia, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark, hayu is now available for Canadians for $5.99 a month. But do Canadians really need another streaming app? It depends if youre a fan of critic-proof franchises such as the Kardashians, The Real Housewives or Million Dollar Listing. For your money you get more than 6,000 episodes of glossy reality shows culled by NBC parent company Comcast Corp. from channels such as Bravo, E! and Oxygen. McDermott hosted a launch party on Tuesday night with special guest Dolores Catania of The Real Housewives of New Jersey to get Canadians on board. This is the second major U.S. network to make a move into Canada following CBS All Access, also at $5.99. CBS announced last week it was opening up a 260,000-square-foot studio space in Mississauga as competition for eyeballs, as the era of peak TV heats up. In terms of the competition, there are obviously a lot of services on the market, but we dont feel we are directly competitive, says McDermott. I dont think its a choice between subscribing to hayu and then cutting off your other service. We feel we own the reality TV genre and, at that price point, about the cost of using the TTC to get back and forth from work, we think its a sharp proposition. Online streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu and Amazon have proliferated at the expense of conventional broadcasters. So companies such as NBC in the U.S. and Bell in Canada with its CraveTV service have tried to get a piece of the action. Sounding the alarm, market research firm Convergence Research Group says streaming services in Canada are set to overtake conventional TV in only two years. By the end of 2020, about 10.6 million Canadians are expected to sign up for streaming services, compared with the 10.2 million who have TV subscriptions. The gloves are off. The TV-movie industry is being reconstructed from the inside and by the outside, warns the report. Amazon, Apple, DAZN, Facebook, Google and Netflix all have the money muscle to finance their own productions or outbid on programming. As a smaller market, Canada has less than half the options available to U.S. consumers in terms of subscription services, but the writing is on the wall for conventional broadcasters, says Convergence. One thing that hayu doesnt have so far is original programming. It has in-house programming and programming acquired from other broadcasters, but not its own material as CBS All Access does with Star Trek: Discovery and The Good Fight. McDermott, whose personal favourite is the Million Dollar Listing real estate franchise, says that next step is potentially in the cards. We dont have plans to do original programming at this point, he says. Right now there is a lot of content to watch, but going forward it does make sense over the long term to look at original content. One thing that McDermott learned working in the trenches in Toronto is that compelling content is what drives subscribers. Its what you cant get from someone else. Hulu, which is owned by Disney, 20th Century Fox, Warner Media and Comcast, used to be a Netflix wannabe, but that was before it produced the Toronto-shot The Handmaids Tale. That show made history last year as the first from an online streamer to win an Emmy for Best Drama. Meanwhile, its getting more crowded in the marketplace as Canadians struggle to keep up with the plethora of streaming services and other ways to watch TV. Besides free streaming available from apps such as CBC, Global News, HGTV, BNN and others, there are paid subscription services such as Amazon Prime Video, YouTube Premium, CraveTV and, of course, Netflix. And thats only some of the more popular services. New streaming services such as hayu are fighting the monster of Netflix by becoming more niche. So say hello to Britbox, which for $8.99 a month gives you all your favourite British shows as the TV universe becomes increasingly fractured to appeal to subsets of viewers. This is the future of anytime, anywhere television. I think the level of engagement that our subscribers have is huge, says McDermott. And research shows that people dont typically want to see advertising and theyre willing to pay for the best possible environment to watch TV. Read more about: A Toronto Star investigation into mercury poisoning in Grassy Narrows First Nation has been honoured with the JHR Award for Achievement in Human Rights Reporting. Journalists David Bruser and Jayme Poisson received the award at an event in Toronto on Monday night. We were really reminded of how lucky we have been to report on this issue for a paper with such a long history of holding people to account, Bruser said. And in a country where journalists have the freedom to do so without fear of censorship. Bruser and Poisson first started investigating in 2016 after they received a tip from a man who was once employed by a paper mill in Dryden, Ont. He told the Star hed been part of a crew that dumped drums of mercury near Grassy Narrows and Whitedog First Nations more than 40 years ago. In more than 30 stories, Bruser and Poisson looked into the continuing effects of mercury poisoning on residents; discovered soil upstream from Grassy Narrows that contained up to 80 times the normal levels of mercury; and reported on scientific findings suggesting an ongoing source of mercury contamination of the Wabigoon River. The Journalists for Human Rights award celebrates those who have made a significant contribution to human rights journalism. After Bruser and Poissons investigation revealed that the Ontario government had known about the mercury poisoning and ignored it for years, the provincial government announced in 2017 that $85 million would go towards cleanup efforts in the area. The federal government also pledged to help build a $5-million care home to assist those still struggling with the effects of mercury poisoning. Bruser said hes grateful that the JHR award helps put a spotlight on the issue we are reporting about. But when lawmakers notice the stories and feel the pressure from the Stars prominent and consistent coverage, and act on it, that is the best recognition. He said the work is not over, pointing out that while a river cleanup has been promised, as well as a mercury home for sick people, nothing has been delivered yet. We aim to continue reporting on this issue. In a tweet Monday night, Poisson, who now works at the CBC, thanked JHR for the honour and for all the incredible work this organization does empowering journalists around the world. Bruser and Poissons work was also honoured earlier this year when they received the Canadian Hillman Prize for journalism. The short list for the JHR award included Paula Simons, from the Edmonton Journal, and Anne Mehler Paperny, from Reuters, as well as another Toronto Star reporter. Brendan Kennedys investigation into immigration detention, initially published in March of 2017, focused on the voices of non-citizens who have been imprisoned in Canada for years after being failed by the immigration and justice system. One man featured in Kennedys investigation was finally released two weeks ago after more than five years of detention. The 2017 winner of the award was also a Star reporter: Sara Mojtehedzadeh was recognized for her reporting on workers rights in Ontario, which led to legislative changes. SAINT JOHN, N.B.A resolution from an Acadian seaside town council has fired a warning shot across the bow of the New Brunswick Tories, as the municipal councillors try to rally wider francophone support condemning any minority government propped up by the Peoples Alliance party. The resolution on the bilingualism issue from Cap Pele councillor, Hector Doiron, was addressed to both the Progressive Conservatives, with 22 seats, and the Liberals, with 21, as they continued Wednesday to struggle over which party will form a minority government following the tight Sept. 24 election. However, the Peoples Alliance, with three seats, has only confirmed an informal, verbal commitment to support the Tories for a year and a half putting leader Blaine Higgs in the crosshairs of francophone concerns. The right-leaning alliance has called for an end to linguistic duality in some government services, such as school busing, and has urged the abolishment of the office of the official languages commissioner. The Liberals have said they wont hold talks with Peoples Alliance Leader Kris Austin, even as Premier Brian Gallant has pursued a coalition with the Green Party, which also won three seats. Any form of coalition with the small, populist party drew strong words in Doirons resolution, as his document argued even an informal deal should be regarded as an assault on Acadian rights. Read more: Recounts held in New Brunswick could influence which party controls legislature As New Brunswick recounts votes in two ridings, Tories allege voting irregularities New Brunswick Tory leader says four-year deal with smaller party is ideal for stability The Peoples Alliance Party has no legitimacy in attacking fundamental rights of the Acadian and francophone community of New Brunswick and in having a platform that does not respect the countrys supreme law, The Constitutional Act of 1982, says the document, written in French. Meanwhile, comments from former Supreme Court of Canada judge Michel Bastarache that a significant slice of anglophone New Brunswickers had voted to abolish bilingualism made headlines on Wednesday in the province. Bastarache argued before the Senate committee on official languages that the Peoples Alliance was created to oppose bilingualism, to oppose francophone schools and francophone hospitals. Peoples Alliance issued a news release responding to the municipal leaders critique, saying the partys policies were being portrayed incorrectly, and referring to the Cap Pele councillor as a Liberal partisan. The Peoples Alliance from day one has said we respect bilingualism and the rights of both official language groups to receive service in their language of choice anywhere in the province, said the release. As most are aware, (school) transportation based on language has not been legally designated as an acquired right. Still, the municipal councils resolution may reappear at an upcoming annual meeting of the francophone association of municipalities, representing 50 of the province 104 municipalities, said the groups director, Frederick Dion, in an interview. It (the Cap Pele resolution) is not clear. Its more like a statement at this point. ... Its not impossible that the resolution or another form of it could be presented to the members, he said. The association also published a resolution last week urging parties not to form a coalition with the Peoples Alliance. Meanwhile, Higgs said Wednesday his party believes in co-operating with all members of the legislature, and is merely seeking assurances the smaller parties wont move to bring down his government. He said the resolution from Cap Pele goes too far because his party has made clear it will maintain its support for bilingualism, as laid out in the partys constitution. Weve been very clear that our party constitution and our party principles arent changing, he said. I think its an overreaction. We saw it during the election process. Its a serious overreaction against me. I found that most disturbing. I found it almost a personal attack on myself. Gallant has said hell go forward with a throne speech on Oct. 23, even as recounts are unfolding this week in three ridings with close results one held by the Tories, one by the Liberals and the third by the Greens. Recounts started Wednesday in Saint John Harbour, where there was a narrow Liberal win, and Memramcook-Tantramar, where the Green candidate defeated a Liberal rival by 11 votes. A lawyer for the Progressive Conservative candidate in the Saint John district has alleged that about 40 electors voted twice in the riding, which was won by the Liberals by a 10-vote margin. The recounts in both ridings were expected to continue Thursday, while a third vote recount has been ordered for Thursday in the riding of Oromocto-Lincoln-Fredericton, a seat the Tories won by 93 votes. Read more about: OTTAWA The federal governments declaration that opponents of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion do not have a final veto over the project angered critics who say a revised consultation process is little more than a sham. In announcing the second part of the governments response to an August ruling by the Federal Court of Appeal, which put a temporary halt to the project, Natural Resources Minister Amarjeet Sohi said Wednesday the government would not appeal the ruling because it takes seriously the Crowns duty to meaningfully consult Indigenous communities and its responsibility to examine the marine environmental impacts of the pipeline expansion proposal. However, Ottawa says it does not interpret the federal court ruling or the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People to mean those who object to the pipeline can block it. Well make our sincere effort to listen, consult and offer accommodations where those accommodations are possible, but we also understand there might be groups that will still oppose this project. Thats fine, because thats their right to do so, said Sohi. But that does not mean that if we fulfil our constitutional obligation that those groups may have a veto to stop this project. That is not our understanding of our obligations to fulfil our constitutional responsibilities to meaningfully consult with Indigenous peoples. Alberta Premier Rachel Notley tweeted that Proper consultation and accommodation are a must in this process. We support that. But I do not support the federal [governments] decision to not appeal the ruling on [Trans Mountain]. They chose another path that could be faster BUT until that path succeeds, their job is to keep all options open, she wrote. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his government decided to follow a blueprint laid out by the courts. If we were to appeal, it would take another few years before we could begin construction and we feel that the blueprint the court laid out for TMX will allow us to get things done quicker and get our resources to markets other than the United States in more rapid fashion, Trudeau said. Sohi said the government will now double government staffing and bring in experts to help redo consultations with all 117 Indigenous groups impacted by the project. The revised consultations will be designed and supervised by former Supreme Court of Canada justice Frank Iacobucci. New Democrat Romeo Saganash slammed Trudeau in the Commons for already having made up his mind to expand the Trans Mountain pipeline over Indigenous peoples objections and not taking their no for an answer, while his colleague Nathan Cullen accused Trudeau of paternalism. The Liberal government two weeks ago instructed the National Energy Board to reconsider its recommendation of the expansion proposal to take account of the effects of project-related marine shipping on species at risk like the southern resident orca whale population, in order to comply with the court ruling. The pipeline project calls for nearly a sevenfold increase in oil tanker traffic in Vancouver harbour and into the waters of Burnaby, B.C. New consultations are being undertaken with an open mind and in good faith, and there is no stop clock or timeline for them to be completed, Sohi said. He added that the government was not starting from scratch, however, because a lot of information was gathered during the first review led by the NEB. Sohi said the government does not believe it could meet its constitutional obligations by simply putting legislation in place to bypass the essence of the courts ruling. Conservative critic Cathy McLeod said although the Federal Court of Appeal gave the government clear directions, it is simply creating more delay and consulting on how to consult. The Toronto Sun reported Wednesday the government is weighing whether to gift ownership of the pipeline to Indigenous groups. However two senior Liberal government sources with direct knowledge of the file said the story was flat-out wrong. Not only are there are no equity discussions underway, the Liberal government is still focused on getting the project approved before any other discussions can take place, the sources said. In the spring, Finance Minister Bill Morneau declared there were several potential investors, including Indigenous groups, willing to buy an ownership stake in the pipeline. One source said since then there have been are hundreds of proposals thrown out but no major equity discussions are underway because there is no pipeline approved at the moment. Tonda MacCharles is an Ottawa-based reporter covering federal politics. Follow her on Twitter: @tondamacc Inside a lab at McMaster University, researchers are working to measure how effective cannabis might be to treat nerve pain, with a specific focus on the differences between what works for men and women. The work, using rats with surgically imposed sciatic pain, is one of about a dozen projects funded in part through the Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research. The preliminary results from the trial show promise for pain relief. Many of the more than 100 animals they have worked with show no sign of pain for many weeks after the initial two-week cannabis oil treatment, said Katja Linher, a research associate in the lab of Gurmit Singh, professor of pathology and molecular medicine at McMaster. The most promising results have been when treating with higher dosages that include both the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) two of the cannabinoids that exist in cannabis. THC is psychoactive, while CBD may reduce pain and inflammation. In anticipation of pending recreational legalization in Canada next month, there is a flurry of cannabis research happening across Canada and North America, but the centre at McMaster University and St. Josephs Healthcare Hamilton is uniquely positioned to be an incubator to stimulate research into cannabis, says the centres co-director James MacKillop. The centre is not bricks and mortar, but more of an intellectual nexus that brings together McMaster researchers from across disciplines, he said. This includes seed funding and also access to laboratories at the university and neuroimaging technology at St. Joes. Read more: York Region residents divided on what legal weed means for their community Health groups call on Ontario to keep ban on displays of vaping products to protect children Can you bring weed onto domestic flights after legalization? Yep The medicinal cannabis centre has been around for a little over a year and is funded by a philanthropic donation. The researchers also partner with outside companies, including some who have agreements with specific licensed producers, but the centre itself does not have an exclusive relationship with cannabis companies and retains the right to publish no matter the results. MacKillop is a professor of psychiatry and neuroscience. His co-director Jason Busse, an associate professor of anesthesia. Together they represent the two sides of research, the yin and the yang addiction and mental health, and pain. But while the focus is on medical cannabis, they cannot ignore recreational legalization, announced as the centre was establishing. We recognize that as a cannabis research centre it would be a little bit ostrich-head-in-the-sand to ignore the fact there is a huge change in the regulatory environment, MacKillop said. He called legalization a natural experiment. Its also increasingly clear that the line between medical and recreational cannabis is blurred, Busse said. For instance, in surveys for people who use cannabis for arthritis pain, most also say they use cannabis recreationally. Its hard to find that pure (medical) group, he said. Thats not a problem for cannabis research, just a reality, they said. The centres approach is to always be evidence based whether theyre looking at cannabis as medicine for pain, anxiety or sleep, or looking at dangers. The nerve-pain study with rats is one of the furthest along of about a dozen studies funded by the centre. Neither Linher or Singh initially set out to be cannabis researchers, but because their focus was on pain, they decided to look at whether cannabis was an effective treatment. We just dove in, Linher said. The rats who are monitored by a veterinarian, are bred specifically for lab research and only participate for up to 10 weeks undergo a cuffing procedure that causes sciatic pain. After the animals are studied for their reactions to pain and they are euthanized, researchers examine samples looking for biomarkers of pain, which could lead to future studies and eventually, to treatment. A focus of the research is the differences between male and females, but more work is needed because the results from female rats is less consistent. Immune systems and hormones are known to play a role in pain and a females cycle can make that harder to measure. As part of the research Singh said he contacted Raphael Machoulam, known as the father of cannabis, in Jerusalem, who gave them a sample of cannabis that is 1,000 times more potent than cannabis here. They will continue looking at the difference between male and female rats, tracing nerve pain, and looking for new cannabis compounds. The hope is to eventually move to human trials. At the Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic at McMaster, which sees more than 20,000 patients a year, Busse said doctors are recommending cannabis to patients, including specific strains (THC to CBD ratio). Much of this comes from the individual doctors observations. But cannabis has been taboo for a long time, with many physicians and oversight bodies wary about endorsing cannabis as medicine. There has not been enough research. There is a lot of anecdote and hope for patients, but not a lot of strong studies, Busse said, noting that many of the studies that have happened have been very small and did not follow patients for a long period of time. There is also a big push to find alternatives to opioids, which are addictive and can be fatal when people overdose. You can overdose on cannabis, but you will not die. I think if we can give physicians more solid numbers, many may be more comfortable, Busse said. Right now there is no training in medical school around the use of cannabis. Other research looks to better understand cannabis misuse, including the most severe cannabis use disorder the clinical name for cannabis addiction and other impacts on mental health. Some of the research is systemic reviews of existing studies to look for bigger trends and others are smaller pilots that hopefully pave the way for full-sized trials. Trials are really expensive and very challenging to do, MacKillop said. As a centre we cant write blank cheques ... be we can provide incubator or seed funds ... pilots are feasibility studies that lay the foundation. CALGARYSeniors living in two care homes in Saskatoon could be participants in a study overseen by the University of Saskatchewan to determine whether cannabis could help improve quality of life for people with dementia. The research is part of a three-year initiative between Sundial Growers, an Alberta-based cannabis company, and the University of Saskatchewan. Itll look at the effects of cannabis on dementia patients, how cannabis could be used in treating cancer and skin diseases, as well as its effectiveness on pain management. Our first focus is dealing with the concept of the aging brain and dealing with diseases that are neurological in nature, said Geoff Thompson, president of Sundial. In this case, were going to be studying dementia and try to understand how cannabis can have a positive effect on dementia. The study has not yet been approved by Health Canada, but Thompson said it expects to receive the OK by Christmas. As many as 50 or 60 seniors at the two Saskatoon homes are already lined up, he said, and could be actively part of the research within the first few months of 2019. These are all people who are in (care) homes and they dont have any alternatives other than trying cannabis, Thompson said. So, we think well be able to see within a three- to six-month time frame changes for the better for people going through these trials. The research falls in line with work done by the U of Ss Cannabinoid Research Initiative of Saskatchewan, a biomedical and plant genomics initiative that aims to obtain scientific evidence about the application of cannabinoids and cannabis derivatives to human and animals for health, disease, and disorders, according to a joint statement. Thompson said theres been a lot of research done on the relationship between cannabis and dementia treatment over the past 20 years. However, he said much of it wasnt published because of taboos concerning cannabis use. Canadas medical cannabis program didnt start until 2003 and, despite nine states in the United States legalizing recreational cannabis, it remains a Schedule 1 drug under U.S. federal law meaning its considered as dangerous as heroin. Therefore, the research didnt reach the same prominence as it does today, Thompson said. Aside from studying cannabiss effects on dementia, the U of S said its research will also investigate the drugs impacts on patient anxiety, aggression, sleep, pain, cognitive stabilization, and nutrition. Sundial is keen on gathering the research to aid its expansion abroad. Last July, it signed a similar research deal with the University of Calgary to look into how cannabis could aid in the treatment of brain and mental health issues, according to a statement issued by Sundial at the time. Thompson said the results could provide organizations like the Canadian Medical Association, as well as similar organizations in countries like Germany, the proof they need to help doctors understand the benefits of cannabis to a patients quality of life. Were trying to prove to people around the world that medical cannabis is an option, Thompson said. Read more about: A 30-year-old man has died after being shot in Mississauga and then brought to an Etobicoke hospital Tuesday evening, according to Peel Regional Police. Toronto police were alerted shortly before 6 p.m. that a man suffering from a gunshot wound had arrived at Etobicoke General Hospital. He had been driven to the hospital by a civilian, police said. Police spokesperson Katrina Arrogante said the man was unconscious and not breathing upon arrival at the hospital. He was pronounced dead shortly afterwards. Shortly before, Peel Regional Police received a call that there had been a shooting in the area of Brandon Gate and Goreway Dr., in the Malton neighbourhood of Mississauga, and that the victim had been taken to hospital. Const. Mark Fischer with Peel Regional Police said that it appears the Malton shooting victim is the same man who died in hospital. Fischer said the shooting took place inside a residence on Goreway Dr. He said they have no suspect information yet, and are still working to figure out if the shooting was targeted. Homicide detectives with Peel Region have taken over the investigation, and Toronto police are assisting them. Peel Police are asking civilians to avoid the area if possible. Alexandra Jones is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Follow her on Twitter: @AlexandraMaeJ Read more about: In the months before his January arrest, Toronto police tailed alleged serial killer Bruce McArthur as he travelled to landscaping gigs, Tim Hortons and fast-food restaurants, tracked his vehicle through the GTA, and covertly entered his apartment to search his room and access his digital files, newly released court documents show. Unsealed by an Ontario judge Wednesday, the heavily redacted documents provide a partial look at Toronto polices investigative efforts as they put together the pieces of a sprawling probe one that would culminate with McArthur charged in the deaths of eight men who disappeared from Torontos Gay Village. The new information pertains to Project Prism, the police task force probing the 2017 disappearances of Andrew Kinsman, 49, and Selim Esen, 44. The released documents are affidavits sworn by police to obtain the courts authorization to search a home, track an individual, and more, and were unsealed after an application by the Star and other media. After years of concern within Torontos Gay Village about the growing list of missing men, it was the June 2017 disappearance of Kinsman that brought McArthur, a 66-year-old landscaper, into police sights, the documents confirm. And it was while police investigated McArthur in that case first as a person of interest, then as a murder suspect that officers began to suspect his allegedly deadly actions may not be confined to the Kinsman case. Clearly, there is circumstantial evidence to suggest that McArthur could have been involved in the disappearance of Kinsman and possibly four other men, too, wrote Det. Const. Joel Manherz in an October 2017 affidavit seeking the courts permission to obtain data from Squirt.org, a gay chat website, to see who McArthur may have been communicating with. As early as August 2017 police were connecting Kinsmans disappearance to that of four other men McArthur is now alleged to have killed. Among the similarities noted by investigators: all of the missing men were middle-aged, bearded, frequented The Black Eagle a bar in the Gay Village and self-identified as bears, defined by police in the documents as a larger, hairier man who projects an image of rugged masculinity. By early December, McArthur was a suspect in Kinsmans death and a person of interest in four other disappearances. The police definition of person of interest refers to someone whose background or relationship to the victim warrants further investigation, but no evidence currently exists to suggest culpability in the commission of the offence, a police affidavit states. It was also in December that Toronto police Chief Mark Saunders downplayed the concern that there was a serial killer targeting the Gay Village. Meaghan Gray, spokesperson for the Toronto Police, said Wednesday that the service stands behind Saunders comments, noting that the newly released documents detail officers theories on what may have happened, but as a police service, investigators need evidence to support their theories. McArthur is next scheduled to appear in court Friday. The eight men he is accused of killing between 2010 and 2017 are Kinsman, 49, Selim Esen, 44, Skanda Navaratnam, 40, Abdulbasir Faizi, 42, Majeed Kayhan, 58, Kirushnakumar Kanagaratnam, 37, Dean Lisowick, 47, and Soroush Mahmudi, 50. Their remains were found at a Leaside property where McArthur had worked as a landscaper, seven of them inside large planters, the eighth in a forested ravine that was exhaustively searched this summer. The documents show police brought cadaver dogs to the home on Mallory Cres. two months before McArthurs arrest, with negative results. A subsequent search on Jan. 19, one day after McArthurs arrest in the deaths of Kinsman and Esen, led police to suspect there was crucial evidence inside the large planters. According to one document, cadaver dogs showed a strong interest in the planters Jan. 19, but the planters were frozen to the ground and could not be moved. It wasnt until the next day that police brought heaters to thaw the two largest planters and move them to the garage. They were eventually taken to the coroners office for further thawing and processing. On Jan. 23, the dogs were brought again to the backyard of 53 Mallory Cres., where by now police had set up a tent. Both dogs made a full indication on the tented area of the backyard, indicating the presence of human decomposition, one court document reads. The newly released documents show the extent to which Project Prism investigators drew on the work of a prior task force: Project Houston. That 18-month investigation probed the disappearances of alleged McArthur victims Navaratnam, Faizi, and Kayhan. Project Houston ended in 2014 after police could find no criminal wrongdoing, and court documents unsealed last week show that during the probe investigators were starting to pick up on a pattern that South Asian men were going missing from Torontos Gay Village but focused on the wrong suspect. In a December 2017 affidavit in which McArthur is named as a suspect in Kinsmans murder, Det. Const. Joel Manherz references previous efforts to find the men in Project Houston. Kinsman, he notes, is the 5th gay male to have vanished without a trace from the Gay Village since 2010. At this point, I believe they may all be related, Manherz wrote. All of the men went missing over holidays or special events, he noted: Navaratnam over Labour Day weekend, Faizi over the Christmas holidays, Kayhan over Thanksgiving weekend, Esen over an Easter weekend and Kinsman over a Pride weekend. It was within six weeks of Kinsmans June 2017 disappearance that police identified McArthur as a person of interest in his disappearance though its not immediately clear from the heavily redacted documents how this occurred. The documents reference multiple witnesses, including an anonymous male caller in July. At this stage, the investigation into McArthur was ramping up, with officers attempting to retrace and observe his every move. The tracking of his vehicle, police said in one affidavit, was necessary to protect the public and police from the dangers of trying to follow the subject who has proven himself to be a reckless driver and would also prevent McArthur from realizing he was being watched. Officers followed as McArthur frequented coffee shops, Loblaws, and a lot of fast food establishments, the documents say. His vehicle was driven extensively on almost a daily basis, generally leaving at 9 a.m. and returning at 9 p.m., and attending multiple addresses, sometimes on multiple occasions, in Toronto and Mississauga, one affidavit reads. They note McArthur repeatedly attended Agincourt Mall on the weekends for long periods of time. During the investigation they learned it was because he was working as the malls Santa Claus. Investigators also spoke to the management of McArthurs apartment building and obtained a log of the use of his key fob, giving police a picture of his comings and goings from home between June and September of that year, the documents say. They also reviewed the buildings security footage. Police later obtained a tracking warrant for McArthurs cellphone, and together with McArthurs fob logs put together a timeline for June 26, 2017, the day Kinsman was believed to have gone missing. In November, police found Kinsmans blood inside McArthurs vehicle, the documents say. The owner of a Courtice auto parts shop previously told the Star that two Toronto investigators came to his shop in September and said they pulled up surveillance video of McArthur selling a maroon Dodge Caravan, which they then seized and towed. One month later, on Dec. 5, police obtained a warrant to covertly search McArthurs 19th-floor apartment. As first reported by the Star, this involved surrupticiously cloning McArthurs computer, including copying and examining data, hard drives, memory sticks and more in an attempt to find documents, records, photos, videos, objects or things of any kind. The documents say there was a close call the day the warrant was granted: Police had just gained entry to the unit when investigators determined, through tracking and physical surveillance, that McArthur appeared to be on his way home. Police made another surreptitious entry two days later, going into McArthurs room to copy devices and do a cursory search of the area, the documents state. Officers arrested McArthur just over a month later. The documents state that, following the arrest, police seized five mobile phones, three laptops, two desktop computers, three digital cameras and about a dozen USB keys, among other electronic devices, from his apartment. Wendy Gillis is a Toronto-based reporter covering crime and policing. Reach her by email at wgillis@thestar.ca or follow her on Twitter: @wendygillis Toronto police released a security camera photo of a suspect on Wednesday after a woman says she was sexually assaulted in Scarborough last month. The woman got off a TTC bus at Morningside Ave. and Sewells Rd., on Sept. 20 at 8:35 p.m. As she walked on Sewells Rd. towards Fawcett Tr., she declined a mans offer to help her with her grocery bags. He then sexually assaulted her, police said. The suspect is described as brown, 20 to 29 years old, 5-foot-7 with a medium build and clean shaven. He was last seen in the area of Carisbrooke Sq., wearing a red shirt with the hood up, black pants and sparkly shoes. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-4200 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477). John Torys refusal to meet challenger Jennifer Keesmaat head on has led the CBC to cancel plans for a mayoral election debate. On Wednesday, CBC announced it had scrapped plans for a one-on-one debate on Oct. 16 that would have been moderated by Metro Mornings Matt Galloway and broadcast on TV, radio and online. The commercial-free broadcast would have been available free to any other outlet that wished to air the coverage, the CBC said. John Tory has declined the invitation, saying he will only participate in debates that include more candidates, with suggestions of who, using different criteria than those weve used for years, wrote Marissa Nelson, CBCs senior managing director for Ontario, in a post on the broadcasters website. Nelson noted media and politicians understandably have different priorities, but urged Tory to reconsider. To change our criteria now, at the mayors behest, would be arbitrary and would give the appearance of bending to one candidates wishes, she wrote. We will not undermine our editorial independence. Read more: John Torys dedication to Black community issues questioned at mayoral debate Toronto missing out on securing local jobs, Jennifer Keesmaat says John Tory casts his lot with controversial campaign strategists In a statement Wednesday, Torys campaign said it was disappointing that the CBC has decided not to move forward with including diverse voices in their debate. Before any debates took place, the mayor called on all organizers of campaign debates to respect local democracy by including more candidates in the discussion, the statement said. Several organizations and media outlets saw the value in this commitment. They were and will be holding debates with multiple candidates who add new ideas, perspectives, and too often under-represented voices to the discussion on our democracy. Nelson outlined the CBCs process for preparing election debates, saying it weighs various factors, including a balance of polls, published platforms and endorsements and other criteria, to determine which candidates are likely to win. The Star and other media outlets have also identified Tory and Keesmaat as the top candidates in the mayoral race. Debates influence campaign results. A debate allows the audience to see candidates go head-to-head in an unfiltered way. It lets people see how well they know the issues, and how well they think on their feet, Nelson said in her post. The benefit of a debate between the top candidates is to see these front-runners answer similar questions, be challenged directly and face difficult questions, she said. We decided and genuinely believe that a one-on-one debate would be the best way to help the citizens of Toronto make an informed choice about who should lead the city. Following the chaos that came from the provinces midcampaign cut to the size of council, this race has seen far fewer mayoral debates than during past campaigns. All of the debates held so far have included other candidates, such as lawyer Saron Gebresellassi and environmental advocate Sarah Climenhaga. A Toronto Real Estate Board event Wednesday featured Tory and Keesmaat separately speaking one after the other with a moderated question-and-answer session between. But many of the approximately 400 realtors in attendance left after Tory spoke, before Keesemaat took the stage. The event was never planned as a debate. The two spoke back to back to accommodate Keesmaats schedule, because she had an earlier commitment, according to Von Palmer, chief communications and government affairs officer at the real estate board. It now appears Tory and Keesmaat may never debate one-on-one. Tory had earlier said he believes debates should have more candidates involved, citing diversity concerns. Polls indicate that Tory remains well ahead of Keesmaat, providing him little incentive to give her greater exposure by debating her individually. Mr. Tory must find it upsetting that his campaign doesnt think he is capable of debating Jennifer Keesmaat, Keesmaats campaign said Wednesday, saying Torys camp has been working to suppress any face-to-face debate. For her part, Jennifer Keesmaat is prepared to debate John Tory on the issues on any stage, with or without other candidates as she has demonstrated in the campaign. At least one other group, Faith in the City, says it cancelled plans for a debate on poverty reduction after the Tory campaign said he wouldnt debate Keesmaat alone and Keesmaats campaign said it preferred a two-person debate. In 2014, Tory and then mayoral candidate Doug Ford sparred over debate participation. After Ford pulled out of a debate a month before election day, Tory said he was a guy who doesn't think he has to earn this job by showing up at the debates and actually standing with the other candidates and answering questions. With file from Tess Kalinowski Read more about: Tucker Carlson, on the set of his Fox News show, was fired by CNN and MSNBC but now has the third-most-watched cable news show. (Jennifer S. Altman / For The Times) U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed allegations in a New York Times story that he had received vastly more money from his father than previously admitted in possible violation of tax laws as very old and boring. Trump blasted the article as a hit piece and said he had never seen the accounting practices utilized by the newspaper in its reporting. The Failing New York Times did something I have never seen done before, Trump tweeted Wednesday morning. They used the concept of time value of money in doing a very old, boring and often told hit piece on me. The time-value of money, a basic financial concept, means that a dollar today is worth more than a dollar in the future. Thats because it can be invested today and create more money in the future. The Times analysis, however, largely relied on a different concept a basic adjustment for inflation. Trump appeared to be criticizing the Times reporting that found he received the equivalent of at least $413 million in todays dollars from his father, the late real estate developer Fred Trump, who died in 1999. Donald Trump has long claimed he only received a $1 million gift from his father and that he repaid it with interest. The presidents tweet was the latest from Trump and his team attacking the newspaper over the report without specifically refuting claims about the findings, which included that Fred Trump backstopped his sons businesses during times of financial distress. The article also questioned the legality of some of the tax practices used. Read more: Donald Trump engaged in suspect tax schemes as he reaped riches from his father, investigation reveals The New York Times allegations of fraud and tax evasion are 100 per cent false, Charles J. Harder, a lawyer for President Trump, said in a statement. There was no fraud or tax evasion by anyone. The facts upon which the Times bases its false allegations are extremely inaccurate. New York state tax authorities have opened an investigation into the allegations reported in the New York Times that Trump and his family created their real estate empire through instances of outright fraud, evading taxes on hundreds of millions of dollars. In a statement released Tuesday night, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said Fred Trump has been gone for nearly 20 years and its sad to witness this misleading attack against the Trump family by the failing New York Times. She added that many decades ago the IRS reviewed and signed off on these transactions. Read more about: WASHINGTONSenators nervously awaited the arrival of a new FBI report on sexual allegations that could make or break Brett Kavanaughs tottering Supreme Court nomination Wednesday as aggressive protesters and an unusually strong security response added to a feeling of high anxiety inside the U.S. Capitol. As lawmakers anticipated the report, three key GOP senators who could decide the conservative jurists fate rebuked President Donald Trump for mocking one accuser, Christine Blasey Ford, by mimicking her responses to questions at last weeks dramatic Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. Their reactions left Republicans concerned that Trump had complicated their effort to cement Kavanaughs support in a chamber where the GOP holds a razor-thin 51-49 majority. Depending on when the FBI report arrived, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell was expected to trigger a process that could lead to a crucial initial vote Friday and a climactic confirmation roll call over the weekend. Inside the Capitol, mounting political strains over the approaching election-season showdown were mirrored by growing anxieties over senators security following frequent and at times aggressive demonstrations by anti-Kavanaugh protesters. Unusually large numbers of Capitol Hill Police officers restricted movements in corridors and formed wedges around senators walking through hallways. Some lawmakers also complained of being confronted outside their homes. McConnell, R-Ky., claimed on the Senate floor that the protesters were part of the organized effort to derail Kavanaughs nomination and said, There is no chance in the world that theyre going to scare us out of doing our duty. Underscoring rising tensions, Democrats suggested that previous FBI background checks of Kavanaugh may have unearthed misconduct by the nominee. Read more: Brett Kavanaugh was questioned after 1985 bar fight, police report says I dont know. I dont know. I dont know.: Trump mocks Kavanaugh accuser Christine Blasey Ford at rally Opinion | Emma Teitel: The lesson we can learn from Brett Kavanaugh is that were teaching kids the wrong thing in sex-ed Democrats wrote to Senate Judiciary Committee Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, challenging a Tuesday tweet by GOP aides saying prior investigations never found a whiff of ANY issue at all related in any way to inappropriate sexual behaviour or alcohol abuse. The Democrats wrote that the GOP tweet contained information that is not accurate. Committee Republicans tweeted in response that their prior tweet was completely truthful and accused Democrats of false smears. Information developed in FBI checks is supposed to remain confidential. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, told reporters that Trumps Tuesday night lampooning of Ford at a Mississippi campaign rally was just plain wrong. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, called it wholly inappropriate and in my view unacceptable, and Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., said on NBCs Today show that the remarks were kind of appalling. Those GOP senators, along with Democrats Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota and Joe Manchin of West Virginia, have yet to declare how they will vote on Kavanaugh. Other Republicans conceded that Trumps insults could be damaging. All of us need to keep in mind theres a few people that are on the fence right now. And right now, thats sort of where our focus needs to be, said Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee, who has traded barbs with Trump and will retire at years end. Even Trump ally Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said at an event hosted by The Atlantic magazine: I would tell him, knock it off. Youre not helping, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said Trumps insults of Ford marked a new low. Trump drew laughs from supporters at a rally Tuesday night with his rendition of how Ford answered questions at last weeks hearing. I had one beer thats the only thing I remember, he stated inaccurately. As he flew aboard Air Force One to the Mississippi rally, Trump was enraged by New York Times articles about Kavanaughs high school and college years and alleging tax avoidance efforts by the president and his family, according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke on the condition of anonymity. White House counsellor Kellyanne Conway on Wednesday echoed the presidents newly aggressive approach. She said Ford has been treated like a Faberge egg by all of us, beginning with me and the president, and said Trump was merely pointing out factual inconsistencies. The California psychology professor has testified that a drunken Kavanaugh sexually abused her in a locked room at a high school party in the 1980s and has said she believed he was trying to rape her. Kavanaugh has denied her assertions and those of two other women, who have accused him of other instances of sexual misconduct in the 1980s. Fords attorney complained Wednesday that the FBI has not contacted her for this weeks interviews. And Democrats argued that the investigation has been insufficient, lacking interviews with her, with Kavanaugh and others who Kavanaughs accusers have said could have knowledge about the alleged incidents. Lawmakers said that once the FBI report arrived, senators and a small number of top aides would be allowed to read it in a secure room in the Capitol complex. Preparations were under way for senators to sign up for time slots to review the document. Republicans have said they are working under an agreement governing background checks dating from the Obama administration, under which investigations are confidential and closely held. Sens. Corker and Mike Rounds, R-S.D., said senators were expecting reports that FBI agents compile on their interviews with subjects, perhaps accompanied by a cover letter. Background checks do not traditionally contain investigators conclusions about who they believe is credible. Washington has been awaiting completion of the investigation since last week, when Flake, Collins and Murkowski pressured a reluctant Trump and GOP leaders to order the FBI to renew its background check of the 53-year-old Kavanaugh. The FBI interviewed several people, including three who Ford has said attended a 1982 high school gathering in suburban Maryland where she says Kavanaughs attack occurred, plus another Kavanaugh friend. The agency has also spoken to a second woman, Deborah Ramirez, who has claimed Kavanaugh exposed himself to her at a Yale party when both were freshmen. While some senators from both parties have said theyd like at least a summary of the findings to be released, Senate procedures call for such checks to be kept confidential and its unclear what will be released, other than through leaks. In an interview, No. 2 Senate Democratic leader Richard Durbin of Illinois said McConnell was hell bent on getting this done this week. Democrats also demanded that the FBI privately brief the Senate about the investigation before the chamber votes. McConnell rejected that request in a letter Wednesday to Schumer, saying Democrats would use it to delay Kavanaughs confirmation. Read more about: SOUTHAVEN, MISS.U.S. President Donald Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi by mocking a woman who has claimed she was sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago. The audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Christine Blasey Fords testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She testified that Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s, when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Fords allegations. How did you get home? I dont remember, Trump said at the rally Tuesday in Southaven. How did you get there? I dont remember. Where is the place? I dont remember. How many years ago was it? I dont know. I dont know. I dont know. Imitating Ford, he added, But I had one beer thats the only thing I remember. It marked the sharpest criticism by Trump of Ford since she came forward publicly with the allegation last month. He had previously called Ford a very credible witness. Fords lawyer Michael Bromwich called Trumps attack vicious, vile and soulless. Read more: Trump taps fears of #MeToo movement gone too far as he defends Kavanaugh Pelosi says Trump is trying to break the #MeToo movement Opinion | Emma Teitel: The lesson we can learn from Brett Kavanaugh is that were teaching kids the wrong thing in sex-ed Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? Bromwich tweeted. She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice. The president was in Mississippi on Tuesday looking to use his influence to sway the outcome of a low-profile election that could tip the balance of the Senate. As Republicans fight headwinds ahead of the Nov. 6 midterm election, Trump sought to rally his supporters behind GOP Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, who was appointed to fill the seat of Republican Thad Cochran, who retired in April. She faces three candidates Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bernard Bartee in next months special election for the remainder of the two-year term. Shes always had my back, Trump said. Shes always had your back. And a vote for Cindy is a vote for me. But Trump spent much of the rally lamenting the treatment of Kavanaugh by Democrats, whose attacks, he said, had taken their toll on the judges family. A mans life is in tatters, he said. Of Democrats, he added, These are really evil people. He even raised questions about the drinking habits of Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy in an attempt to turn the tables on Democrats who have gone after Kavanaughs beer drinking. Trump told the crowd they should do an online search for Patrick Leahy slash drink. Leahys office didnt immediately return a message seeking comment Tuesday. Some Republicans and White House allies have suggested the allegations against Kavanaugh can be potent political fodder in the run-up to Nov. 6, animating GOP voters who have so far lacked the same motivation to head to the polls as their Democratic counterparts. Republican officials and the White House expect Hyde-Smiths race to go to a runoff under the states jungle election rules that force a showdown between the top two finishers if no candidate wins at least 50 per cent of the vote on Election Day. With Republicans defending majorities in the House and Senate next month, officials cast Trumps visit as an attempt to get ahead of a potentially perilous situation. Officials said Trump is seeking to boost Hyde-Smith as close as possible to the 50 per cent threshold and lend momentum for a possible runoff. Depending on how Republicans perform on Nov. 6, the eyes of the nation could fall on a Nov. 27 Mississippi runoff in what could become an expensive and high-profile race to determine control of the Senate. Your vote in this election will decide which party controls the United States Senate, Trump said. A vocal minority of the crowd Tuesday backed the other conservative in the race, McDaniel, a state senator, and booed Hyde-Smith when Trump introduced her. They launched into occasional chants of We want Chris. Earlier Tuesday, Trump told electrical contractors gathered in Philadelphia that his economic policies would translate into more jobs for their ranks as he highlighted a new trade deal among the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Were in the midst of a manufacturing renaissance something which nobody thought youd hear, Trump said in a speech to the National Electrical Contractors Association Convention a day after celebrating the new North American trade deal. In fact, North America already is a manufacturing powerhouse. The United States ranks No. 2 in the world behind China in manufacturing output. Mexico ranks 11th and Canada 13th, according to United Nations numbers pulled together by the Brookings Institution. Trump calls the new trade agreement USMCA, for U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Like YMCA or U.S. Marine Corps with an A at the end, he explained. He said he doesnt want to use the previous name, NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, which he contends cost American jobs and railed against during his 2016 presidential campaign. The new trade deal still must be approved by Congress. We are finally rebuilding our country, and we are doing it with American aluminum, American steel and with our great electrical contractors, he said. Trump said the strong economy means more jobs for our great electrical contractors. Before departing the White House, Trump tweeted, THE ONLY REASON TO VOTE FOR A DEMOCRAT IS IF YOURE TIRED OF WINNING! Read more about: U.S. President Donald Trump publicly praised Canadas leaders this week after announcing a new trade deal, sending them his highest regards. But only three days before the deal was announced, Trump privately railed against Canadas foreign minister, saying that she hates America. It was just one moment in a stunning performance the president gave to donors at an off-the-record fundraising event last week. Trump held court for more than an hour during an appearance at a Sept. 27 Protect the House PAC event at Trump International Hotel in Washington, speaking on a wide range of topics, two attendees told me after the event. Fresh off his 80-minute news conference following meetings at the United Nations the day before, the president gave the donor crowd a show that they said took Trumps increasingly freewheeling, no-holds-barred public speaking style to a new level. Trump was roasting people inside the room, telling stories about his private interactions with world leaders, discussing sensitive military operations and bragging about his accomplishments. At one point, he began criticizing Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland, who was leading Canadas negotiations with the United States on the trade deal that both allies announced three days later. She hates America, Trump said, referring to Canadas negotiator without using Freelands name. He was in the midst of a 10-minute riff on Canada and the then-ongoing trade negotiations, not dissimilar to remarks he gave at the previous days news conference in New York. In those public remarks, Trump said, We dont like their representative very much, again without saying Freelands name, but referring to her directly. Inside the Trump hotel fundraising event, Trump also asserted that the European Unions foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, hates America. Trump then said this was a shame because female leaders are often better than male leaders; all the more the pity, he declared, that these two women hate America. A White House spokesperson declined to comment on Trumps remarks as related by the two attendees, but did say: It was a highly successful night and the president had the crowd in great spirits. Read more: In only four countries does a majority have confidence in how Trump approaches world Opinion | Thomas Walkom: Nothing free about new North American trade deal U.S. Congress could thwart new North American trade agreement Thats 100 per cent accurate, my sources told me. The crowd was astonished but thoroughly entertained by the presidents comments, which included regular stump-speech lines about the economy mixed with shout-outs and gentle jibes at friends Trump recognized in the room. He was en fuego. People were lapping it up. They loved it, one attendee told me. Then after about an hour, everybody was like, OK, lets wrap this up and get out of here. Many of Trumps stories didnt seem to have a point. For example, he reminisced fondly about his May 2017 visit to Saudi Arabia and bragged about how he had refused to bow to Saudi Arabias King Salman, who Trump said was right out of central casting. Trump had seen then-President Barack Obama bow to the king and had no intention of doing the same. But then Trump revealed that the king recently called him personally to ask for the United States help with an unspecified but large military operation. Trump said he told King Salman it was too expensive and in order for the United States to co-operate, Saudi Arabia would have to foot the bill, which Trump pegged at $4 billion (U.S.). Trump declined to reveal the nature of the military operation or assistance to the donors, saying it was probably highly classified. Trump said Iran would take over Saudi Arabia over in about two weeks if the United States didnt defend it, a comment he has made in public several times. The president also said he really enjoyed his November 2017 trip to Beijing to visit Chinese President Xi Jinping. But Trump joked that the Chinese government must be wondering now what they did wrong on the visit, considering how tough he was being with Beijing on trade today. Trump said he and Xi were buddies, but maybe not anymore. With a normal president in a normal environment, Trump saying that two foreign leaders hate America while donors chuckle might precipitate a major diplomatic incident. But thats perhaps unlikely now, mainly because Trump has already changed his tune. He praised Canada in remarks Monday and Tuesday while celebrating the new trade deal. More broadly, Washington and the rest of the word are getting used to Trumps shtick and declining to panic every time he says something undiplomatic. Todays fire and fury can be tomorrows We fell in love. The U.N. diplomats laughing during Trumps speech in New York last week were laughing both with him and at him. Were all in on the joke now, for better or worse. Whats clear is that Trump is feeling more comfortable than ever talking at length about how he sees foreign policy and the United States role in the world, in both public and private. It can be both scary and entertaining. Read more about: The new deal, Oct. 2 I appreciate the effort and time Ms. Freeland and her team spent negotiating the new USMCA agreement. Success was the goal, but it seems that success evaded them and they surrendered to Trumps tariff terror tactics. Our dairy farmers were put under the bus to accommodate excess production by American dairy farmers. Our governments now have to compensate Canadian dairy farmers. In reality, the Canadian taxpayer is indirectly subsidizing the American dairy farmer. Not good. There is not one advantage to this agreement. We still have chapter 19. That is a gain? It seems the Trudeau government is rummaging through the agreement to find something we didnt give up and counting it as a gain! USMCA is a deeply flawed agreement and the Liberals should not be proud of it. We could have done better or walked away. Canada survived and flourished before NAFTA; we would again. I am so disappointed by the Liberals. Janice Kogelheide, London, Ont. So, NAFTA has gone and we have USMCA. However, I do not have a trade agreement with the U.S. Therefore my purchasing policy will not change: Check origin twice, buy Canadian once. Besides, the U.S. does not know how to make cheese. Keith Parkinson, Cambridge, Ont. The newly negotiated USMCA does not take away my choice and my power to continue to purchase goods and services made in Canada, and consume organic dairy products locally sourced, and I hope there are many other Canadians who feel the same way. Julia Bowkun, Toronto If we get flooded with milk from U.S. cows, I might start taking my coffee black, unless someone keeps score and marks the bags of milk with the nationality of the cows it came from. Venkat Krishnan, Ajax What the PM together with the hard-working minister have achieved is commendable despite many obstacles and threats to tear apart amicable and good-neighbourly trade relations between the United States and Canada. To gain some we must expect to lose some. I, for one, give full support to the new deal. Raza Kara, Richmond Hill Read more about: Ontario Premier Doug Ford loves to brag about how his government is totally focused on acting For the People. But the truth is, Ford isnt as popular as hed like the people to believe. In fact, since Ford became the Conservative leader, the party has actually lost ground with the people and continues to do so. All of which raises serious questions about why Ford is planning to take the Conservatives on a hard-right turn that may play well to his hard-core base, but gain few if any new supporters. Weve already seen the first stages of Fords agenda, with his moves to slash the size of Toronto City Council, cancel the basic income test program, axe the scheduled move to a $15-an-hour minimum wage and scrap Ontarios participation in the federal carbon pricing program. Thats just the tip of the iceberg. Indeed, Queens Park insiders believe Ford is planning even more dramatic changes before the end of 2018. Its as if Ford has taken the advice of former premier Mike Harris who once said if he had to do it all over again hed cut deeper and faster. Fords plans worry some Tories. Our party has been taken over by the hard right, a leading Conservative with deep ties to Queens Park said this week. Its not the best way to run a government and its not the best way to win the support of voters in this province. Significantly, since he became leader, Ford has actually cost the Conservatives voter support, rather than attracting more people to the party. When Patrick Brown stepped down suddenly as leader in late January, polls showed the Tories backed by 43 per cent of voters. For much of Browns last year as leader, the party had a 20 percentage point lead over its nearest party rival. As leader, Brown worked to make the party more mainstream, leading the Conservatives to support the federal climate change program, accepting same-sex rights and reducing Islamophobia within the party. In mid-February, when the Tories had no permanent leader, they were supported by 49 per cent of voters, according to a Forum Research poll. On election day, the Ford-led Tories captured 40.5 per cent of the votes, winning enough seats to form a solid major government. Today, three months later, Fords approval rating is already down to 37 per cent, according to a DART Insight survey. That surely makes Ford one of the few political leaders never to experience a traditional honeymoon period when their popularity rises in the months immediately after an election. That decline doesnt seem to distract Ford, who is preparing to take Ontario on an even harder turn to the right than it has seen already. Everyone on Fords team, according to the insiders, agrees the size of government must be cut and front-line delivery of services is best left to private and non-profit sector. In the coming weeks, Ford is expected to make major changes in social support programs, and slash the senior bureaucratic ranks in the health and education ministries. Some fear the education cuts may be so deep that they spark teacher strikes in early 2019. Fire sales may be held for the LCBO, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation and Ontario Power Generation. Also on the possible chopping block are eHealth and dozens of agencies, boards and commissions. Agencies such as Cancer Care Ontario could well see funding cuts of up to 40 per cent. This, in addition to Fords announcement this week that he is getting rid of the Wynne governments labour reforms that increased sick day benefits, paid vacation entitlements and protection for temp. agency workers. Such moves win huge praise from business groups, Ford Nation loyalists and right-wing think tanks that despise all tax hikes and almost any social welfare policy promoted by the Liberals or NDP. In making these moves, Ford will repeatedly tell Ontarians that they are For the People. The real issue, however, is which people will be the winners and which people will ultimately be the losers in Fords hard-right world. Read more about: The Ontario government is providing $90 million in new funding for 1,100 beds that will help hospitals cope with the flu season. Premier Doug Ford also announced the government will move ahead with 6,000 long-term care beds, as part of its plan for 30,000 over the next decade. We are taking immediate action to reduce the pressure on our emergency rooms, Ford said of the $90 million, which will pay for 640 new beds and extend funding that was about to expire for hundreds of others. Ontario Hospital Association president Anthony Dale said the money is much needed, given the sector is heading into its busiest time. Hospitals have been overcrowded, even in summers when demand is typically at its lowest, he said. Dale added that the extra funding will help in the short term, but long-term solutions to the problem are more complex and will take systemic solutions, new ideas and deep collaboration among all health-system partners. Read more: Hospital security officers facing increase in violent patients due to meth crisis Opinion | Bob Hepburn: Fears grow of more private health-care under Doug Ford Hospital failing seniors, retirement home officials say Critics said the funding falls far short of whats needed. A year ago, the Liberal government provided the health-care system with $100 million to handle the flu season., but NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said hospitals need at least $300 million to maintain the status quo. The Liberals funding in October 2017 meant the hallway medicine crisis didnt get better it got worse, said Horwath. Now, the Ford government needs to recognize that we have to, and we can, do so much better to end the hallway medicine crisis. Hospitals need an actual funding increase to make up for years of frozen budgets and cuts under the Liberals. Horwath also said almost two-thirds of hospitals are over capacity all the time, not just during the flu season. On Wednesday, the government also revealed the names of those sitting on the Premiers Council on Improving Healthcare and Ending Hallway Medicine, which is being chaired by Dr. Rueben Devlin, former president of the Ontario PC Party and former CEO of Humber River Hospital. He is being paid $348,000 a year. Its 11 members also include: Adalsteinn Brown, dean of the Della Lana School of Public Health; Dr. Jack Kitts, CEO of the Ottawa Hospital; Michael Decter, former deputy minister of health in the Bob Rae government; Shirlee Sharkey, president of Saint Elizabeth Health; Barb Collins, president of Humber River Hospital; and Dr. Richard Reznick, dean of the faculty of health sciences at Queens University. Read more about: VANCOUVERChildhood abuse can not only leave a lasting imprint on your memory but your cells as well, according to a new study from the University of British Columbia and Harvard University. The findings may have far-reaching implications when it comes to diseases and criminal investigations. But until researchers can conduct larger studies, they dont know how this tagging known as DNA methylation affects victims health. People who were exposed to early life adversity, especially childhood abuse or poverty, are predisposed to a lot of adverse health outcomes like cardiovascular disease, cancer or Type 2 diabetes, said co-author Nicole Gladish, a UBC medical genetics PhD candidate, in an interview. However, we dont understand what in the body is almost being programmed to get people sick later on. Its aside from behavioural. Based on a comparison of chemical tags on the DNA of 34 adult men, Gladish and her team discovered the trauma impressed at a molecular level is detectable years later. The study was published in Translational Psychiatry on Monday. Researchers set out to determine whether childhood stress might inflict long-term physical health effects not only on the immediate victims but also on their offspring. This had been shown in earlier animal experiments, where the progeny showed a difference in behaviour even though they were not exposed to stress. Thats why they looked for DNA methylation in sperm cells. Read more: Teen boys report more violence than girls when dating: new study Study suggests more older women may benefit from bone drugs With triggers everywhere, sexual assault trauma can continue for years Explaining the process, Gladish said to imagine genes as light bulbs, where methylation would be a dimmer switch, which affects the degree to which a particular gene is expressed or not. Theyre like the medium between the environment and your gene, she explained. Thats how the gene relates to the environment and how you can adapt. Studies over the last four years have found children who were abused have different tagging patterns. The male participants who donated their sperm were part of a larger, longitudinal study of roughly 17,000 people co-ordinated by Harvards T.H. Chan School of Public Health, in which some acknowledged they had been victims of childhood abuse. Gladish said the degree of dimming between victims and non-victims in the mens genomes was striking. But more research is needed to determine how these differences might translate into long-term physical consequences, Gladish said. And scientists dont know whether the tags within sperm cells survive the messy process of fertilization and are then passed down to a persons children. When the sperm meets the egg, there is a massive amount of genetic reshuffling, and most of the methylation is at least temporarily erased, said lead author Andrea Roberts, a research scientist at the Harvard Chan School, in a release. But finding a molecular signature in sperm brings us at least a step closer to determining whether child abuse might affect the health of the victims offspring. But the study is one small piece in better understanding intergenerational trauma, Gladish said. The potential is there for early intervention in high-risk people, preventing certain diseases and potentially saving public dollars, she added. And the technique could be useful in forensics or trials with alleged child abuse. Methylation is starting to be viewed as a potentially useful tool in criminal investigations for example, by providing investigators with an approximate age of a person who left behind a sample of their DNA, said senior author Michael Kobor, a medical genetics professor at UBC. So its conceivable that the correlations we found between methylation and child abuse might provide a percentage probability that abuse had occurred. Read more about: A local political party is proposing a new steeply discounted public transit pass for working-class people, as well as free passes for seniors, children and low-income households. The Coalition of Progressive Electors is aiming to increase access to public transit as part of its election campaign ahead of B.C.s civic elections on Oct. 20. The so-called universal bus pass will cost only $41 per month for people making $25,000 to $65,000 annually, which COPE considers working class. COPE also wants to make public transit free for children and people with low incomes, which it defines as households with an annual income between $18,000 to $37,000, depending on family size. This is essentially what COPE is about, Anne Roberts, one of the partys city council candidates, said in an interview. Ever since its formation, we have been concerned about the working class and the poor and how their interests havent been represented in city hall. The universal bus pass and low-income bus pass would cover all three transit zones in Metro Vancouver, including SkyTrain service, and also give users access to swimming pools, skating rinks and other park board programs. Critics were quick to point out that Vancouvers transit system is already near capacity and would have trouble handling an influx of riders, especially during peak hours. Working people, by definition, they will want to get to work. So if you push the peak higher, thats where you start getting system failure, Gordon Price, former director at Simon Fraser Universitys the City Program and former member of TransLinks board, told StarMetro. Pass-ups on crowded routes like the 99 B-line and 41 bus are already common during rush hour. However, Price and other academics applauded the sentiment behind COPEs proposal. Trying to make transit more accessible for people of less means is a noble cause, said Lawrence Frank, a public health and urban planning professor at the University of British Columbia. But he pointed out that doing so would essentially give a big chunk of TransLinks riders a discounted fare. The transit authority would need to find a funding source to recoup the lost fare revenue and also to build new infrastructure to support the anticipated increase in ridership. About 29 per cent of TransLinks 2017 revenue came from transit fares, according to the transit authoritys budget report. COPEs answer to that is to divert provincial carbon-tax revenue to TransLink. None of the carbon tax revenue currently goes toward anything TransLink-related, the transit authority confirmed in an email. The carbon tax is scheduled to increase to $40 per tonne from $35 in 2019. Roberts said if elected, she would call on the provincial government to divert that additional revenue to TransLink to help pay for the proposed transit pass program. Werner Antweiler, a professor at UBCs Sauder School of Business, confirmed there are examples of cities around the world, like Tallinn, Estonia, and Tacoma, Wash., that have successfully implemented free transit programs. But he pointed out that almost all of those cities are significantly smaller than Metro Vancouver. Vancouver may one day be ready for a free transit program but it is not ready yet, said Antweiler. This proposal comes a little bit too early. We need to work on the infrastructure first and then maybe we can look at individual groups that are requiring a discount. Read more about: Black then typed a letter and emailed it to the Southern Poverty Law Center, a civil rights group that has battled racism for decades. He admitted that his actions had been "harmful to people of color, people of Jewish descent" and others. "I will not contribute to any cause that perpetuates this harm in the future." He then criticized the tenets of white nationalism. "It has become clear to me that white nationalism is not a movement of positive identity or of asserting cultural values, but of constant antagonism at the betterment of other groups. ... I can't support a movement that tells me I can't be a friend to whomever I wish or that other people's races require me to think about them in a certain way or be suspicious at their advancements. Minorities must have the ability to rise to positions of power, and many supposed 'race' issues are in fact issues of structural oppression, poor educational prospects, and limited opportunity." ENDERBY, B.C.A bat flits around Denis Aubertins head in the darkness, its wings casting shadows on the underground tunnels soot-blackened walls. On hands and knees and wheezing with the effort, Aubertin presses forward, desperate for some sign of his missing daughter. After crawling through 45 metres of tunnel beneath what appears to be a former grow-op on a farm in British Columbias Interior, he comes to a windowless room and a locked steel door. Rising to his full height, Aubertin throws his body against it. Over and over again he tries to break it down, but despite his tradesmans strength the door refuses to yield. This tunnel has a lot to hide, Aubertin says, pausing to catch his breath. But with little new evidence to go on, were between a rock and a hard place. Its late August almost a year since Denis and Jane Aubertins daughter, 31-year-old Nicole Bell, disappeared. Aubertin thinks this farm, less than an hours drive south of where Bell lived, might hold some clue to what happened to her. To access more of the Stars award-winning journalism, subscribe today The Aubertins are not alone in their search. Waiting above ground with Jane, beside the tunnels concealed entrance in a dark corner of a dilapidated outbuilding, is Cindy Simpson. Her daughter Ashley disappeared from the same area in April 2016. Both families have kept up their desperate searches because they say police have not. Their daughters are among roughly 2,500 people who have gone missing in B.C. and never been found, most of the cases going back 10 years or more. Canada-wide, there are approximately 7,000 open cases in which a person has been missing at least three months, a StarMetro-Toronto Star investigation has found. The RCMP says missing persons are an operational priority, especially in B.C. where there are a disproportionate number of people who have disappeared and never been found. Adjusted for population, the rate of unsolved long-term missing persons cases there is more than twice the national average, and nearly five times that of Canadas most populous province, Ontario, according to the data. The majority of B.C.s cases have long gone cold, but roughly 150 people have gone missing and stayed missing in the last five years alone. Over the past four months, StarMetro took part in ground searches, dug through public records, consulted criminologists and spoke to family members and friends of a dozen people who have gone missing in the province. Many feel abandoned by the RCMP left on their own to uncover, report and take action on new leads. Some said their pleas for regular status updates have been ignored and their concerns about what they consider short-lived, half-hearted investigations minimized. The RCMP has repeatedly not answered StarMetros questions stemming from allegations made by individual families and research revealing mysterious hot spots where people have vanished in clusters. Hot spots like the one where Simpson and Bell were last seen a 100-kilometre stretch of road leading from Salmon Arm to Kelowna through the farmland, valleys and mountains in the southern B.C. Interior. Five women have gone missing from that part of the Okanagan since February 2016. A year ago the remains of one of these women 18-year-old Traci Genereaux, last seen alive in Vernon, B.C. were found on a farm 30 kilometres from the highway and only a few kilometres from where the Aubertins and Simpsons searched the tunnel. No one has been charged in her death. The discovery came amid a weeks-long police search that included forensics teams and dogs. Curtis Sagmoen, whose parents own the farm, has been charged and denied bail on numerous assault charges stemming from allegations made by sex workers. None of the allegations have been proven in court and he hasnt been charged in relation to any of the women who have gone missing in the corridor. Meanwhile, Denis Aubertin said police have all but stopped looking for Nicole, something he refuses to do. He and his wife have driven over the mountains from their home in Calgary five times since their daughter disappeared, hauling their aging tent trailer and burning out the engine of their pickup truck. Ashley Simpsons family has made similar pilgrimages, spending more than $13,000 of their own money travelling from southern Ontario, to search for their daughter. You dont get no help until they find a body, Simpsons mother, Cindy, says. Were Canadians, but we feel like third-class citizens. Families pressured to stay silent Caitlin Potts, another of the women who went missing from the Okanagan hot spot, was last seen at Orchard Park mall in Kelowna in February 2016. Police have said Potts, who lived in Enderby, was likely killed, but her remains have not been found and no one has been charged with her death. Her mother Priscilla Potts said, at this point, she doesnt think police are doing anything to find her. On one occasion, thinking something may have been missed by police, Potts decided to search the property of someone who knew her daughter. The police, she said, were shocked when she told them about the search, demanding to know how she found out the address and sparking a heated exchange. Why do you get upset? Why do you not give us right information? Priscilla said she asked the police. Her relationship with the RCMP has changed since then, she said. She no longer trusts them, and they have stopped regularly updating her on the case, she said. I dont even know why theyre there, she said. I dont think theyre doing their job. Other family members of missing people whom StarMetro spoke to said they felt the RCMP do not take their loved ones cases seriously. The family members asked for anonymity, fearing the police will cut off communication if they speak out. They dont do much of anything unless a body is found, said one family member. They dont put enough resources behind it. Many families interviewed also said they struggled to get timely information and updates from the police, even about the most basic elements of their loved ones cases. Some families said they had to take their complaints to the top RCMP brass in Ottawa, after being ignored for weeks, before receiving a response. Last summer Dale Wertz was growing impatient. His sister, Deanna Wertz, was 46 years old when she vanished from her home in Yankee Flats, along the 100-kilometre stretch from Salmon Arm to Kelowna, on a rainy night in July 2016. Wertz said his sister was battling depression and had called a suicide hotline before her disappearance, an experience which left her frustrated. Months after she went missing Dale said, communication with the RCMP faded off to the point where promises to conduct further searches were not fulfilled. He eventually moved from Metro Vancouver to Salmon Arm to take the burden of dealing with the case off the rest of his family. Frustrated, Wertz penned a letter to local media, criticizing the RCMP. Im tired of sitting around, waiting for the RCMP to do absolutely nothing, he wrote in March 2017. Im not going away. This issue is not going away. I am getting angry and I will be demanding results. Following the letters publication, the RCMP took Wertz on a helicopter search of the area. But, afterward, he was upset by an officers comment. Just as we were leaving, getting into our car, he made a smartass comment to me, Is this good enough for you? Youre not going to go public again? or something along those lines, Wertz said in an interview at his Salmon Arm home. It was uncalled for. That was the last time I spoke to him. In August, Deannas missing persons profile was removed from the RCMP website. When asked why, B.C. RCMP told StarMetro it was an oversight. It still hasnt been reposted. Desk-based investigations When StarMetro first approached the RCMP about B.C.s missing persons data, reporters were told every case is listed on the forces missing persons webpage. In reality, the site is only a snapshot of the cases open at any given time. There are a number of reasons why missing persons cases would not be made public, including requests from family and concerns about compromising ongoing investigations, RCMP spokeswoman Sgt. Annie Linteau later said. This spring, for example, the RCMP provided data that showed there were 30 cases in the past year of children missing three months or longer in B.C. Only one of those cases was listed online: 16-year-old Colten Fleury, from Prince George. A similar data query in August showed that number had dropped to 10. Criminologist and former police officer Michael Arntfield said a major contributing factor to the frustration families feel is a lack of consistent standards across the country governing how missing persons cases are handled. When someone is first reported missing, police will conduct a risk assessment based on factors like the persons age, gender, how long they have been missing, the weather and the circumstances of their disappearance. That risk assessment similar to an actuarial test that assigns a numerical score to a case guides what happens next. StarMetro Vancouver reporter Jeremy Nuttall discusses the sensitive nature of covering the search for missing loved ones. Depending on the score, you either investigate it, reassign it to a major crime section, or call for a full-scale ground search, said Arntfield, who has written numerous books on criminal investigation practices and true crime. But what comes after the ground searches have been exhausted is imprecise, he said. In B.C., police have seen the consequences of not taking missing persons cases seriously. Based on recommendations made after an official inquiry into the handling of the case of Robert Pickton, one of Canadas most notorious serial killers, the B.C. policing services standards were updated to provide more clarity about how police should handle missing-persons cases. The initial risk assessment involves attempts to determine whether the missing person may have been a victim of crime, Linteau, the RCMP spokeswoman, said. Indigenous women and girls are automatically considered to be at an increased risk of harm, she added. At regular intervals during the investigation, missing persons cases are reviewed by a supervisor to ensure procedure is being followed. The B.C. policing standards require cases in which foul play is considered a possibility be handed over to a serious or major crimes unit. But that doesnt always happen, Arntfield said. That decision is not consistent, he said. Whats suspicious to me and might merit reassignment ... might not be to an inexperienced sergeant supervising a small rural detachment. If the ground search options have been exhausted and the case isnt handed over to a major crimes unit, theres little police can do except work the phones and hope for the best, Arntfield said. It becomes a sunset position. Its an indoor, telephone, desk-based position where youre just sort of calling in for updates about whether the complainant has heard from the person. Youre not out pounding the pavement looking for the person, Arntfield said. Ultimately, it comes down to an individual person and how hard they want to work that day. Its as simple as that. And that can leave families feeling like nothing is being done to find their loved ones. Loved ones search on their own When families do strike out on their own to look for answers, the lack of information theyve received from the RCMP often hampers efforts, several told StarMetro. Jane Aubertin said police wont tell them where theyve already searched, so they risk looking in places already scoured by professionals. Our biggest challenge to the search is not knowing where to go, Jane said. We dont have any training. Today we were going up these mountains and we have no clue where to go. There are some financial resources available from the federal government to help parents who have missing children make ends meet if they take time away from work. Recent changes have increased the eligibility age of a missing young person to 25 from 18 and increased the amount parents can claim to $450 from $350 per week for 35 weeks. Its no help to families like the Simpsons and the Aubertins, whose daughters are too old to qualify. You cant work, Simpson said. There needs to be funding in place so thats one less worry. I went back to work cause I had no choice. Much of the support the Simpsons support has come in the form of donations from Enderby businesses or fundraising from community members. They recently raffled off a cooler of beer back home in Ontario. One person bought $500 worth of tickets. When the Aubertins drive out to Enderby from Calgary, a local campground lets them park their tent trailer at a discount. Funding is a really big thing, Jane Aubertin said. Thats why we have fundraisers. We search for all of them For two days in August, socked in by the smoke from B.C.s summer wildfires, the Simpsons and the Aubertins try their best to find any sign of the missing women. They informed RCMP of their suspicions about the farm with the tunnel, but were told there would be no help in the search. The police would come only if the families were to find some piece of evidence that would justify searching the farm in force, Cindy Simpson says. Over here, Ashleys sister Amy says, calling to Jane as the duo make their way further onto the property. An old shovel, rusted with the weather, sits on a lumpy pile of dirt that looks out of place on the farm. Jane begins probing it methodically with a narrow metal rod. Amy joins her, the two of them on their knees, as Jane begins to dig into the pile, sifting slowly. After a few moments she stops, turning something round and flat over in her fingers. Were not supposed to touch things, Amy chides her gently. She turns the object over with a twig carefully, in case its a piece of evidence. Turns out its nothing, just a piece of rotting wood. The search goes on like this for hours, with couples and trios of people stopping haphazardly around the property, inspecting anything they think looks suspicious. Heading out with local volunteer, Tim Walker, Denis Aubertin drives up a trail barely wide enough for his battered truck. The road ends in a weed-filled clearing. The two men begin searching the periphery of the glade and find a dark, deep hole dug into the side of a bank. They suspect it could be a bear den and Walker edges closer until he can carefully shine his flashlight inside. Its empty. After two days of searching, with the sun sinking towards the horizon, the families gather on the farmhouse porch to debrief the weekend. Denis never did get through the steel door, and no other sign of the missing women has been found. As an orange glow sets over the farm, Cindy puffs on a cigarette on the back deck of the farmhouse. A failed search at least means there is still one more area they can cross off their list, she says, one step closer to finding her daughter. But even if Ashley is discovered tomorrow, Cindy says, her heart will still be with the other families of those missing from the 100-kilometre stretch from Salmon Arm to Kelowna. When we search, we dont just search for Ashley, she says. We search for all of them. Jeremy Nuttall is the lead investigative reporter for StarMetro Vancouver. Follow him on Twitter: @Nuttallreports Jesse Winter is an investigative reporter based in Vancouver. Follow him on Twitter: @jwints Data analysis by Andrew Bailey With files from Michele Henry. Follow her on Twitter: @michelehenry Read more about: If you visit the museum thinking that this is a journey back to the days of quilting bees and your great-grandmother's patchwork offerings, well you're partly right. Opened in 1991, the National Quilt Museum does provide insight into the history of quilt-making as a form of American self-expression, but it goes far beyond that. Its three galleries covering 27,000 square feet showcase the finest quilt and fiber art in the world. ALTON Crohns disease need not be a lifetime management battle just ask top realtor Casey Bennington, 32, this years honoree at Madison County, Illinois-based Givin It All For Guts annual event. Its mission: to support individuals seeking a cure for immunosuppressive Crohns disease and colitis through research and compassion. This year is Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheaters inaugural hosting of Givin It All For Guts 5K Margarita Run/Walk, starting at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, in Alton, Illinois. Visit givinitallforguts.org to register for the event. The 5K run/walk event rewards its participants with margaritas, chips and salsa, afterward ole! A good cause plus good libations equal good vibrations all the way around. The all-volunteer organization held its previous three signature awareness Givin It All For Guts 5K runs at Belk Park in Bethalto, Illinois. Givin It All For Guts founder and treasurer Lisa Loftus, a Jerseyville, Illinois native, became well-versed in the debilitating effects of Crohns disease when her son, Jordan, received the diagnosis at age 16 in 2003. Every penny earned goes 100 percent to Washington University, doing work for a cure for Crohns disease, Bennington said. More Information If you go: What: Givin' It All For Guts 5K Margarita Run/Walk When: 3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 13 Where: Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater, 1 Riverfront Drive, Alton, Illinois Info: Visit givinitallforguts.org for more information and to register for the event. See More Collapse Diagnosed with the disease in 2007, Bennington eventually learned to control symptoms, once she discovered Washington University physician Dr. Alexandra Gutierrez, who works in the same department as Givin It All For Guts researcher Dr. Matthew A. Ciorba, both committed to the pursuit of a Crohns cure and most up-to-date knowledge of Crohns and related diseases relief and management. Bennington overcame challenges caused by Crohns disease and aims to educate other sufferers about how they can get their life back. Her sentiment contributed to the Givin It All For Guts board selecting Bennington as this years honoree. In previous years, Lisas son was honored, and last year, the honoree was Robert Logan, who passed away when he was 30, after succumbing to complications of colon cancer, which occurs commonly in Crohns disease sufferers, explained Bennington, who volunteers for the organization. Im an example of someone who found the right medication for me which was possible through doctors research. Im still full time at Crown Vision Centers corporate office and an active, successful realtor, and manage and co-own a real estate investment company, Bennington Investment Group, while still having Crohns disease. On medication for 10 years, in remission with her current treatment for six years, this moment didnt seem possible when Bennington received the original diagnosis. Initially, for four to five years, Bennington could not hold a job and missed a semester of college because of the diseases symptoms, which can range from lethargy to excruciating pain, leaving sufferers bedridden for days. Eating is difficult, even for sustaining basic health and nutrition requirements. My mom would bring me the blandest food and say, You have to eat something, Bennington recalled of a time when she lost 93 pounds in six months, nauseated, vomiting and in pain the whole time. Yet, even then, at the beginning of an arduous journey, she made the Deans List, with all of that going on. I was trying to figure out my medication before my doctor recommended this one to help with symptoms, and it has allowed me to get my life back, Bennington said. Givin It All For Guts goal is to raise awareness and raise money to help: inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) sufferers to receive clinical care that is compassionate, comprehensive and at the leading edge of Crohns and ulcerative colitis umbrella conditions; medication research; develop the next generation of IBD clinicians and scientists; and, relentlessly pursue a cure for IBD, through leadership in innovative and transformative research. I went through several specialists, asking a lot of questions and researching the answers, Bennington said. Bennington takes Remicade intravenously, via an infusion nurse, every eight weeks, receiving the medication that is tailored to the individual, for four hours in one sitting. Fortunately, my job allows me to work from home if I need to, Bennington said about the invisible disease that leaves employers thinking their charges are lazy or want a day off from work. Not all Crohns medications are based on weight fluctuation; most Crohns medications are based on trials of patients weighing an average of 150 pounds, with no room for in-between. Crohns patients are typically very thin or very heavy, explained Bennington, whose Crohns disease shows up in two separate locations. But it can be anywhere in the digestive tract. Reach Jill Moon at 618-208-6448 and Twitter @jill_moon. EDWARDSVILLE There will be a Day of the Dead Celebration on Friday, Nov. 2 to raise money and awareness of the Friends of Valley View Cemetery. This is the second year for the event . The event will be held at 222 Artisans Bakery, 222 N. Main St., Edwardsville. The celebration will run from 6 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $25, which include 222 Artisans delicious specialty pizzas and two drinks (wine, beer and soda). Tickets can be purchased at 222 Artisan Bakery, from any FOVVC Board Member, or online thru the Facebook page: Friends of Valley View Cemetery. Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is not a Mexican version of Halloween. Though related, the two annual events differ greatly in traditions and tone. Whereas Halloween is a dark night of terror and mischief, Day of the Dead festivities unfold over two days in an explosion of color and life-affirming joy. The theme of both is death, but the point is to demonstrate love and respect for deceased family members. In towns and cities throughout Mexico, revelers dress up with makeup and costumes, hold parades and parties, sing and dance, and make offerings to lost loved ones. The FOVVC celebration is an opportunity to celebrate, remember and honor loved ones who have passed. There will be a remembrance tree to post love messages, and guest are invited to bring a photo of their loved ones. Raffle tickets ($2 each or 6 for $10) will be sold for a chance to win a variety of gift basket. You will not need to be present to win but you do need to buy raffle tickets. FOVVC is a grassroots organization created for the purpose of supporting through fundraising and service the restoration of the Valley View Cemetery. The current focus is the renovation of the small entrance building, the completion of section signs, and landscaping of two tall monuments within the cemetery. The group will hold its next public meeting Saturday, Oct. 27 from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Main Street Community Center, 1003 N. Main St., Edwardsville. The meeting will update the community as to whats happening at the cemetery and provide an opportunity to share thoughts and feedback. Public meetings are held four times a year to allow interested parties to have input on the work of the organization. Everyone is welcome. You can join the Friends of Valley View Cemetery by sending your name, address email, phone number and a membership fee of a minimum of $10 to the following address: Friends of Valley View Cemetery, P.O. 744, Edwardsville Illinois, 62025. Contact FOVVC at email: friendsofvalleyviewcemetery@gmail.com or send a message thru our Facebook page, Friends of Valley View Cemetery. You may also contact Jeanne Carter, President of FOVVC at 618-980-9095. GODFREY The sale of Godfreys wastewater sewer system to Illinois American Water Co. was unanimously approved after a public hearing Tuesday. The village will receive $13.25 million for the system, with $5 million of that going into a special fund to abate future rate increases. The remaining money can be spent at the discretion of the village board, with the approval of two-thirds of the members. While the sale has been approved, it is expected to take 10 months to a year for it to be finalized. That includes approval by the Illinois Commerce Commission. We are excited about broadening our partnership with the Godfrey community to include a purchase of the citys wastewater system, Karen Cooper, senior manager at Illinois American in Alton, said in a prepared statement. We appreciate the confidence shown in us by the council tonight with their vote. We have been providing water service in Godfrey for more than 140 years, she added. We look forward to our continued partnership with Godfrey and presenting our agreement to the Illinois Commerce Commission. The sale has been spurred by a looming deadline to meet approximately $12.2 million in U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-mandated improvements, plus additional improvements and repairs that will be needed over the next few years. The sale of the system absolves the village of all those liabilities, which will be picked up by Illinois American. A standing-room only crowd turned out for the meeting. A public hearing was held before the vote, with about a dozen people speaking. All appeared supportive of the plan, but some questioned how the money the village received would be spent. After the public hearing, the board went into a short executive session, then came out and voted on the sale without discussion. Mayor Mike McCormick, who had supported the sale, said the village would continue to work on the improvement projects until the sale was finalized. Reach reporter Scott Cousins at 618-208-6447. Trumpism a virulent form of American fascism is a plague which afflicts us grievously. How can we destroy this pestilence? In his letter to the Philippians, the apostle Paul shows us the way: Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, think on these things. Right thinking is made manifest in right acting, and on Nov. 6 right acting means going to the polls. Every vote for a Democrat will be a vote against presidential despotism. I am tempted to trust that every vote for a woman in either party will also move the needle in the right direction, but I wont indulge in wishful thinking. Some female Republicans are so mesmerized by our presidents lies that voting for them would be foolish. The worth of their thinking is moot. What is not moot is the worth of the women in the life of Jesus. The women at the foot of the cross knew the answer to the question famously asked by Pilate: What is truth? They knew how the truth preached by Jesus had changed their lives. They had been born anew. And the same can be said about the woman with an issue of blood, whose healing is described in the ninth chapter of Matthew. She is cured by touching the hem of Jesus robe, a marvel which calls to mind a well-loved verse in a poem by Wittier: The power that filled His garments hem is evermore the same. Truth heals the ills spawned by falsehood now, just as it did in Jesus time. In the Old Testament, the only example of a corpse resuscitated by spiritual means alone is in the story of the Shunammite woman in Second Kings, whose son had been killed by a fever. He was returned to life by Elisha. Prophets are in touch with reality, and prophetic truth will save us from the pestilential priest in the Oval Office. Donald Trump is morally blind, as blind as a cave shrimp. The virtues praised by Paul glow with wisdom. Truth and honesty have the power to stop the spreading infection, which threatens to blight our belief in democracy. Every time we are inclined to utter a falsehood and choose instead to utter the truth, we deal a blow to American fascism. The truth, as we read in Hebrews, is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and heart. The word quick here means alive, as in the phrase the quick and the dead. Trumpism is political death, and like the great Red Dragon in the Book of Revelation, it is swollen with sin and ripe for destruction. Vote! Christian evangelicals who are weary of self-betrayal, and housewives in the suburbs of Philadelphia who are tired of holding their nose, they will be voting with you. Pauls words doom the worship of Trump. They urge us to action. Colin Campbell Elsah Earlier in the day, we learned that Van Dyke had said to his partner even before arriving at the scene, Oh my God, we are going to have to shoot the guy. He wondered why officers had not shot him when he slashed the tire of a squad vehicle. FIG Consult Limitedis a leading Human Resource Consultancy. They are recruiting on behalf of a valuableclient, a security systems service provider. We are specialized in the designand execution of complete turnkey Technical solutions ranging from Fire,Security and Access Control Systems. They provide electric fences, razor wire,CCTV, Residential alarms, Motion Sensors, Burglar alarm systems, Access Controlsystems, biometric systems, Door Bells, Time & Attendance systems,Automation of Gates, etc. The adage that failures can teach many lessons seems quite... Thousands of farmers who marched to Delhi as part of the Kisan Kranti Yatra ended their protest early on Wednesday morning after the Delhi Police allowed them to enter the national capital. The farmers announced that the Narendra Modi government had met most of their demands, including the need to increase the price of crops. The Delhi Police, after midnight on Tuesday, removed barricades that were erected at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border and allowed the protesting farmers to move to Kisan Ghat. The farmers arrived in the national capital on tractors and trolleys and proceeded to Kisan Ghat. The protesting farmers began dispersing from Kisan Ghat around 5.30am on Wednesday. Even as the Delhi Police announced that traffic movement could resume on major roads including National Highway 24, the Uttar Pradesh government declared a holiday for educational institutions in Ghaziabad on Wednesday on account of the farmers' protest. On Tuesday, the Delhi Police resorted to using teargas, water cannon and lathi charge to prevent the farmers from entering Delhi from Uttar Pradesh. According to media reports, around 30 farmers were injured in the ensuing clash in addition to seven policemen. Farmers' protest leaders talked to Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday evening, though they later said the protest would continue as the Modi government had only accepted seven of their 11 demands. The Kisan Kranti Yatra, which started from Tikait Ghat in Haridwar on September 23, was organised by the Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU). The BKU organised the march to raise various demands including implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, lower power tariffs and introduction of a pension scheme for farmers above 60 years of age. The Kisan Kranti Yatra saw participation of farmers from several parts of Uttar Pradesh as well as Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand. (With agency inputs) Most of Chicago has seen the police video countless times and most made up their minds upon learning City Hall hid the video from public view until after Emanuels last mayoral election in 2015. Hed wear the jacket for any fallout after a verdict, so hes pulled out of the race. And others who were much too afraid to challenge him are crawling in. At a time when Tamil Nadu is anticipating the judgment by the Madras High Court in the case of the disqualification of 18 'rebel' AIADMK MLAs, the government of Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami seems to be gearing up for yet another political game in the state. Days after the Thiruvadanai constituency MLA Karunas, who belongs to the AIADMK, created a controversy by declaring that he would make the Koovathur resort deal' public, the state government is likely to send notices to him and three other MLAs. The Koovathur resort became infamous in early 2017 when it hosted nearly 100 AIADMK MLAs loyal to V.K. Sasikala as she attempted to form the government after then chief minister O. Panneerselvam 'revolted'. Action will be taken against Karunas and others who indulge in anti-party activities, Panneerselvam, who is currently the deputy chief minister, told the media after taking part in an event to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on Tuesday. On Monday, a day after the valedictory celebrations of the MGR centenary in Chennai, which was attended by several thousands of AIADMK cadres, Palaniswami and Panneerselvam held a meeting with Speaker P. Dhanapal to discuss possible action against Karunas. According to sources, Palaniswami, Panneerselvam, ministers P. Thangamani and Velumani and Law minister C.V. Shanmugam held discussions with Dhanapal, following a letter from AIADMK chief whip S. Rajendran, seeking action against Karunas and three AIADMK MLAs who supported him. A week before, speaking at a public meeting in Chennai, Karunas advised his supporters, You can go kill anyone. But before that, you tell me and do the murder. Karunas was arrested under charges of criminal conspiracy, promoting enmity and disharmony, attempt to murder and issuing death threats. He was later let out on bail. Following his release, Karunas created yet another controversy, saying that the present AIADMK government had been spreading hatred and said he wouldnt hesitate to tell in public what happened inside the Koovathur resort in February 2017 and how Palaniswami was nominated by Sasikala as the chief minister. I voted for Palaniswami in the assembly because Chinamma [Sasikala] told me to, Karunas declared. In fact, a day before the public meeting, Karunas reportedly called on Sasikala at the Parappana Agrahara prison in Bengaluru. As Karunas threatened to make the Koovathur resort deal public, three other MLAsE. Rathinasabapathy (Aranthangi), V.T. Kalaiselvan (Vriddhachalam) and A. Prabhu (Kallakurichi)also extended support to him. Following this, the AIADMK high command, comprising Palaniswami, Panneerselvam and a few other ministers, is said to have discussed sending notices to all the four MLAs, including Karunas, asking for an explanation. Sources say the Palaniswami government is also getting ready to disqualify the four MLAs under the anti-defection law. Action cannot be taken against Karunas under the anti-defection law for speaking at a public meeting. May be the speaker can take action against him for taking part in the mock assembly organised by the DMK months ago, an AIADMK legislator said. However, sources in the AIADMK say Palaniswami is targeting Karunas only to avoid a floor test and sit on the chief ministers chair for a few more months. The consultation meetings held to discuss taking action against Karunas is highly condemnable. The Palaniswami government is playing a drama only to evade a floor test, DMK president M.K. Stalin said in a statement on Tuesday. The Madras High Court hearing over the disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs came to a close a month ago and Justice Sathyanarayana is likely to pronounce the judgment soon. Highly placed sources in the Madras High Court say that the judgment is likely to be pronounced on October 8 or 9. The first bench of the Madras High Court, comprising former Chief Justice Indira Banerjee and Justice Sundar, had pronounced a split verdict in June. The case then was heard by a third judge, Justice Sathyanarayana. Interestingly, when the verdict on the disqualification of the 18 MLAs is pronounced, the stay on a petition demanding a floor test in the assembly gets lifted. The petition seeking the Madras High Court to order a floor test was filed by DMK whip Sakkrapani in 2017 after the assembly speaker disqualified 18 MLAs, who defected to the T.T.V. Dhinakaran camp, under provisions of the anti-defection law. The Madras High Court had apparently stayed the proceedings in the petition seeking a floor test, saying it will be taken up when the judgment in the case of the disqualification of 18 MLAs is pronounced. It means the court stay on the floor test petition automatically gets vacated and the court might even order a floor test, says a AIADMK legislator. It is in this backdrop the Palaniswami government, sources say, has started playing yet another political game. They are in a jittery now. If the stay is vacated and a floor test comes up, it is unlikely that Palaniswami will get the majority and there could be cross-voting. So to avoid the floor test, they now want to disqualify a few more MLAs and make them go to the court. By this, they can avoid the floor test. It is likely that one of our own [AIADMK] MLAs will again go to the court, saying a floor test can be held only after the court rules in the case of these four MLAs, explained the legislator. Other sources also confirm Palaniswami had sought an appointment to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His lieutenants, ministers P. Thangamani and S.P. Velumani, recently went all the way to Delhi to call on Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. Earlier, Palaniswami also met Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu when he went on a pilgrimage to Tirupathi. Sources say, through these meetings with senior BJP leaders, the AIADMK leaders have discussed about the 2019 polls and likely alliances. Nine policemen were injured as violence broke out in Puri on Wednesday during a 12-hour bandh called by a socio-cultural organisation protesting introduction of a queue system for devotees visiting the revered Jagannath Temple, the police said. The dawn-to-dusk shutdown in Puri called by the Sri Jagannath Sena turned violent as a mob barged into the 12th century shrine, uprooted barricades erected on Baisi Pahacha and near the Singhadwara and ransacked the office of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), the police said. The protesters ransacked a police outpost and an information centre near the Singhadwara as well as the Puri town police station, besides burning tyres and indulging in stone pelting. While around nine police personnel were injured in stone pelting, many structures suffered extensive damage in the mob attack, prompting the police to use mild force in order to control the situation, a senior police official said. Soon after the queue system was introduced in the temple on Monday on an experimental basis, Sri Jagannath Sena had given a call for a Puri bandh to oppose the move. The agitation turned violent after the police picked up Sri Jagannath Sena convener Priyadarshan Patnaik and held him under preventive detention. Asserting that the stir would be further intensified, Patnaik said the manner in which the new system was introduced at the Jagannath Temple had hurt the sentiments of a large number of devotees. Angry over his detention, activists of Sri Jagannath Sena and local residents held a demonstration demanding the immediate release of Patnaik. They also blocked the Bada Danda (the grand avenue) by burning tyres in a number of places. The Sri Jagannath Sena agitators allegedly pelted stones at the residence of the district SP, local MLA and a minister, police said. Normal life was crippled in the holy town as shops and business establishments as well as educational institutions were shut, while traffic came to a halt with protesters erecting pickets and blockades at many places, police said. Adequate police force was deployed in order to restore normalcy in Puri where the situation remained tense, the police said. Puri Collector Jyoti Prakash Das said quick steps were taken to bring the situation under control and prevent any further flare-up. An official said the queue system was introduced at the Jagannath Temple on an experimental basis and a review would be done as locals and servitors opposed it. The Maharashtra government on Wednesday moved the Supreme Court challenging the Delhi High Court order allowing Gautam Navlakha, one of the five human rights activists arrested in connection with the Bhima-Koregaon case, to be freed from house arrest. The plea has been filed in the Supreme Court registry on Wednesday morning challenging the Delhi High Court order, Nishant Katneshwar, counsel for the Maharashtra government, told PTI. The Delhi High Court had on Monday freed Navlakha from house arrest, five weeks after he along with four other human rights activists were arrested in connection with the Bhima-Koregaon violence in Maharashtra. Granting relief to the 65-year-old Navlakha, the Delhi High Court had also quashed the trial court's transit remand order, which he had challenged before the matter was taken to the Supreme Court. Last week, a three-judge Supreme Court bench headed by then chief justice Dipak Misra and comprising Justices A.M. Khanwilkar and D.Y. Chandrachud, in a 2:1 verdict, refused a plea seeking the immediate release of the activists. The majority verdict dismissed the plea of historian Romila Thapar and others seeking an SIT probe in the case. The Supreme Court also extended the house arrest for the activists. There is unlikely to be any changes in America's policy on suspension of aid to Pakistan until it makes substantial progress against terrorists and their safe havens, the Trump administration has told Islamabad as the two countries try to reset their strained ties. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, during their meetings with Pakistan's new Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, are understood to have told the Pakistani leadership that in its assessment the US does not see any changes on the ground when it comes to taking actions against terrorists operating from its soil. Given Pakistan's influence over the Taliban, the Trump administration also wants Islamabad to bring them to the peace table. Notably, the State Department till late in the night had refrained from issuing any readout of the meeting between Qureshi and Pompeo, which is understood to have lasted for 20 minutes at their Foggy Bottom headquarters. The White House normally does not issue a readout of the meeting that its National Security Advisor has with foreign leaders. Qureshi and Pompeo did appear for a hand-shake photo op before the meeting, during which they did not issue opening remarks. According to informed sources familiar with the development, the US side is upset because of Qureshi's faux pas about handshake he had with President Donald Trump during a luncheon in New York, which he described to the media as meeting. Meanwhile in a readout of the meetings, the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington said that Qureshi had a wide range of discussions with both Pompeo and Bolton which included among others bilateral and regional issues. Qureshi said that close engagement between Pakistan and the US had always been mutually beneficial and a factor for stability in South Asia. He stressed that, going forward, a broad-based and structured framework for dialogue would best serve the two countries' shared interests, the statement said. Noting that Pakistan and the US share a common desire for peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region at large, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's support for a political settlement in Afghanistan, saying use of force had failed to deliver results. Qureshi told Pompeo that "peace in South Asia, which was a common goal for both the US and Pakistan, would remain elusive until all disputes, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir, are resolved". Pompeo, according to the embassy statement, said the US looked forward to working with the new government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan in implementing its reform agenda. "In the context of achieving stability in South Asia, Qureshi briefed his US interlocutor about India's aggressive posturing in the region. "Qureshi underscored that, on its part, Pakistan remained committed to engaging India in a comprehensive peace dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute," the statement added. The ties between the two countries strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists. Last month, the Trump administration cancelled $300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups active on its soil. US President Donald Trump publicly mocked Christine Blasey Ford, the professor who has alleged that she was sexually assaulted by his Supreme Court nominee Justice Brett Kavanaugh, 36 years ago. Impersonating Ford, who testified before a Senate Judiciary Committee last week with her allegations, Trump on Tuesday said that the woman accuser only remembered that she had one beer and nothing else. Trump, in his address to his supporters in Mississippi raised doubts over the allegations of Ford, as a result of which the lives of Kavanaugh is in tatters, he said. "36 years ago, this happened," said the president as he was referring to the alleged party in a house in Maryland where Ford alleges she was sexually assaulted by Kavanaugh. Thereafter Trump imitated Ford's question and answer session at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing last week. "How did you get home? I don't remember. How'd you get there? I don't remember. Where is the place? I don't remember. How many years ago was it? I don't know," Trump said mocking Ford. "What neighbourhood was it in? I don't know. Where's the house?' I don't know. Upstairs, downstairs, where was it?' I don't know, but I had one beer. That's the only thing I remember," Trump said amid cheering and laughter from his supporters The allegations, he said, had a great impact on Judge Kavanaugh. "A man's life is in tatters. His wife is shattered," he said and alleged that the Democrats are behind this. "They destroy people. They want to destroy people. These are really evil people," Trump said. After the rally, Ford's lawyer Michael Bromwich called Trump's remarks "vicious, vile and soulless attack" on his client. Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice, Bromwich said. In her testimony last week, Ford told the Senate Judiciary Committee that Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her decades ago when they were both teenagers. Kavanaugh has angrily denied the allegations. Though he had previously refrained from attacking Ford personally, he tweeted last month questioning why Ford or her parents had not "immediately" filed charges. According to Washington Post, Trump's aides say that he has become increasingly frustrated with the Kavanaugh issue. He has repeatedly claimed that the Democrats are behind the current situation. (With PTI inputs) Its a medical-only state now, but its in the process of transitioning to adult use at some point in the near future, Bierman said. It has a hyper-regulated oligopolistic feel to it, so if you can be a vigilant operator you have an opportunity for some scalable success. Its a gateway in the middle of everything, (with marijuana programs in) Michigan, Ohio, it just makes sense. Assam Assembly passes GST (Amendment) Bill Guwahati, Oct 3 (PTI) The state Assembly on Wednesday passed the Assam Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2018, increasing the annual turnover limit for compulsory registration of small traders. The Bill also raised the cap for those eligible for filing composite tax under the GST regime. The annual turnover limit for compulsory GST registration has been hiked to Rs 20 lakh from the existing Rs 10 lakh. Assam Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma, who introduced the Bill in the House, said the change in the slab would greatly benefit small traders in the state. Another amendment increased the turnover limit from Rs 75 lakh to Rs 1.5 crore for businesses to be eligible for filing one per cent composite tax under GST. Sarma said the state government had got the necessary clearance from the GST council for implementing the changes. PTI ESB RBT RBT Mumbai, Oct 3 (PTI) Maharashtra minister Deepak Kesarkar Wednesday came out in support of Nana Patekar, accused by fellow actor Tanushree Dutta of harassing her on the sets of a film in 2008, saying he is an "illustrious personality" who has done tremendous work for the state. He also questioned the veracity of Dutta's claims and asked why was an FIR not registered all these years. The Shiv Sena member said Patekar is known as a social worker, adding that unless there is a complaint, one can't accuse a person of his (Patekar's) stature. "He is not just an actor. He is also a social activist who has done tremendous work for the state. You just cannot level allegations against anybody," he said. Patekar is an "illustrious personality" who has done tremendous work for Maharashtra, the minister of state for home told PTI. On Dutta's claims, he said, "This is not how the home department functions. Why was there no FIR registered in the last 10 years? What is the substantial evidence on which a complaint can be registered a decade after the incident took place?" In a recent TV interview, Dutta had claimed that Patekar misbehaved with her on the sets of "Horn Ok Pleasss" 10 years ago. She also alleged that Patekar had the tacit support of the film's makers. Many Bollywood stars including Farhan Akhtar, Priyanka Chopra, Twinkle Khanna, Swara Bhasker, Anurag Kashyap, Richa Chadha, Parineeti Chopra and Hansal Mehta have come out in support of Dutta. PTI MM VT ZMN Colombo, Oct 3 (PTI) A mass grave with skeletal remains of around 151 people have been found in Sri Lanka's former war zone where the government forces and Tamil Tiger rebels were engaged in a 30-year civil war, officials said on Wednesday. At least 14 of the skeletal remains found in the northeastern district of Mannar were of children. The digging work at the old cooperative store site in Mannar was conducted for the 79th day Tuesday to establish if it was a mass burial site. In March, the construction workers had found remains when the ground was dug to build a new construction. Excavations were on since March. The remains have been kept in a special room of the Mannar magistrate court and will be sent for carbon testing. Amidst international complaints of large numbers of missing in Sri Lankas conflicts since the 1980, the office of missing persons was set up this year. Various probes set up from time to time since the 1990s have found that nearly 25,000 people are missing as a result of the armed conflicts. Mannar was occupied by the LTTE during Sri Lanka's civil war between 1983 and 2009. International rights groups have said that at least 40,000 Tamil civilians were killed by government forces under the command of former president Mahinda Rajapakse in the final months of the war. Since the end of the military battles, Sri Lanka has faced international accusations of rights abuses by its troops. PTI CORR PMS AKJ PMS PMS New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) Following are the top foreign stories at 2000 hours: FGN21 NOBEL-LD CHEMISTRY Trio win Nobel Chemistry Prize for research harnessing evolution Stockholm:US scientists Frances Arnold and George Smith and British researcher Gregory Winter won the Nobel Chemistry Prize on Wednesday for applying the principles of evolution to develop enzymes used to make everything from biofuels to pharmaceuticals, the jury said. (AFP) FGN30 PAK-SAUDI-LD CPEC Pakistan takes U-turn; says Saudi Arabia will not be part of CPEC Islamabad: In a U-turn, Pakistan has announced that its close ally Saudi Arabia will not join the USD 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, days after Islamabad said Riyadh will be the third "strategic partner" of China's flagship project under the controversy-hit Belt and Road Initiative. By Sajjad Hussain FGN29 PAK-SHARIFS-COURT Convictions against Sharifs in Avenfield verdict may not be sustainable: Pak court Islamabad: A Pakistani top court has observed that the sentences of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, his daughter and son-in-law in a corruption case "may not be ultimately sustainable" as it issued a detailed judgement on Wednesday, two weeks after freeing the trio on bail. FGN36 IMF-REFORMS IMF warns countries against roll back of reforms Washington: The IMF on Wednesday warned countries against rolling back reforms which could make the global financial system "less safe" and "jeopardise" stability, saying reform efforts must continue to be coordinated internationally. By Lalit K Jha FGN20 RUSSIA-INDIA-DRILL 'Russia-India joint military drill from Nov 18 in Uttar Pradesh' Moscow: India and Russia will hold a joint military exercise from November 18 to 28 in Uttar Pradesh, Russian authorities said Wednesday, ahead of President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi. FGN24 INDONESIA-INDIA-DIALOGUE First India-Indonesia Interfaith Dialogue begins in Java Jakarta:The first India-Indonesia Interfaith Dialogue, decided during the maiden visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi here, began Wednesday in the Indonesian island of Java in a bid to promote pluralism and eradicate radicalism. FGN22 LANKA-MASS GRAVE Mass grave with skeletal remains of over 150 people found in Sri Lanka Colombo: A mass grave with skeletal remains of around 151 people have been found in Sri Lanka's former war zone where the government forces and Tamil Tiger rebels were engaged in a 30-year civil war, officials said on Wednesday. FGN15 UN-US-LD IRAN US ordered to halt 'humanitarian' Iran sanctions in blow for Trump The Hague: The UN's top court ordered the United States Wednesday to suspend sanctions on "humanitarian" goods for Iran in a stunning setback for US President Donald Trump. (AFP) FGN9 US-LD PAK 'Trump admin unlikely to change policy on suspension of aid to Pakistan' Washington: The US is unlikely to revoke the suspension of aid to Pakistan until it sees substantial progress against terrorists and their safe havens, the Trump administration has told Islamabad as top officials of the two countries met here to try to reset their strained ties. By Lalit K Jha FGN8 US-TRUMP-LD TAXES NYT accuses Trump of engaging in suspect tax schemes; claims he reaped riches from father Washington: A top American daily has alleged that President Donald Trump was engaged in suspect tax schemes as he reaped riches from his father Fred C Trump, the legendary New York City builder. By Lalit K Jha FGN7 US-NOOYI Lot of fuel still left in my tank, want to do something different with life: Nooyi New York: Pepsico's Indian-origin CEO Indra Nooyi, who will step down Wednesday after 12 years at the helm of the global beverage giant, said that "lot of fuel" is still left in her "tank" and she looks forward to doing something different with her life and spend more time with her family. By Yoshita Singh PTI AMS AMS Cong MLA Alpesh Thakor to sit on fast over toddler's rape Ahmedabad, Oct 3 (PTI) Congress MLA Alpesh Thakor said Wednesday that he will sit on a fast outside the Sabarmati Ashram here on October 8 to seek justice for a 14-month-old girl who was raped in Gujarat's Sabarkantha district. Thakor, a prominent OBC leader who heads `Kshatriya Thakor Sena', said his one-day "Sadbhavna Upvaas" will be an attempt to awaken the conscience of those who are "still silent" over the rape of a girl belonging to Thakor community. "I demand that the rape case be tried by a fast-track court... the accused should get death sentence," Thakor said. "I am equally amazed by the silence of intellectual citizens, who have chosen to remain silent over this issue. Where is their conscience now? So I have decided to sit on a fast to raise the issue and make people understand the pain of that little girl," Thakor said. Members of the Thakor community, arrested by Mehsana police Tuesday on the charges of rioting over the issue, should be released immediately, he said. Thakor Sena has been staging protests in north Gujarat ever since a 14-month-old girl was allegedly raped by a migrant worker at Dhundhar in Sabarkantha district on September 28. Police arrested the accused, Ravindra Gaande, a migrant worker from Bihar, from the village on the same day. Some members of the Thakor Sena have demanded that workers from other states should not be given jobs in Gujarat. A mob of around 200 persons, led by a Thakor Sena leader, stormed a factory near Vadnagar in Mehsana district Tuesday and thrashed two employees. Inspector General of Police Mayanksinh Chavda said 20 persons have been arrested for the attack. "Since the accused is from Bihar, some elements are spreading misleading messages on social media. As a result, some persons stormed the factory and injured some employees. I appeal the Thakor community to maintain peace," said Chavda. Alpesh Thakor condemned the attack but also demanded that government make it mandatory for migrant workers to get a no-objection certificate from police. "I do not endorse what happened in Vadnagar. Non-Gujaratis are also Indians. I only demand that locals be given more jobs as per the state government's 80 per cent norm," the Congress MLA added. PTI PJT PD KRK KRK After the officers ordered the suspect the passenger to raise their hands, the driver drove the Cadillac towards the officers, who were standing in between his squad and a row of parked cars, authorities said. One of the officers fired several shots at the driver and the Cadillac ran into vehicles parked at the complex as well as the officer's car. \R Aizawl, Oct 3 (PTI) Bharatiya Janata Party general secretary Ram Madhav said on Wednesday that the party would fight alone in the Mizoram assembly election, but might forge an alliance with like-minded parties. Addressing a press conference here, Madhav, who is in charge of the Northeast, said the BJP would field candidates in all the 40 assembly seats if possible. On the Opposition calling Mizo National Front (MNF) "proxy" of the BJP, the general secretary termed it "ridiculous". The party would contest against the MNF and the National People's Party in the polls, though they are constituents of North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA). NEDA is a political coalition formed in 2016 by the BJP, along with regional political parties of the northeast like Naga People's Front, Sikkim Democratic Front, People's Party of Arunachal, Asom Gana Parishad and Bodoland People's Front. He asserted that the BJP "respected" the food habits, distinct cultural and customs of the Mizos and their religion. Madhav accused the ruling Congress, headed by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla -- in power for 10 years -- of being corrupt and inefficient. The Thanhawla regime did not create any basic infrastructure development during the last decade, though the Centre initiated several developmental projects and funding the projects, the BJP leader said. If voted to power, the BJP would construct a four-lane highway across the state, linking both Myanmar and Bangladesh, Madhav said. The proposed highway would ensure access to the international market and open the east-west corridor for trade. He added that engineering colleges would be established at Lunglei and Champhai districts if the saffron party wins. PTI HCV KK HMB Kolkata, Oct 3 (PTI) Pallab Kanti Ghosh, a member of the Special Investigation Team formed by the West Bengal government to probe the 2013 Saradha money laundering scam, appeared before the CBI Wednesday. Ghosh, a retired IPS officer, arrived at the CBI office at Salt Lake for interrogation. The central agency wrote a letter to the West Bengal director general of police on August 18 for a meeting with the SIT members between August 21 and 25. "We want to proceed with (investigation into) the Saradha scam for which the CBI sought a meeting with the members of the SIT," an agency spokesperson said. He said the purpose of the meeting is to plug gaps hampering the investigation. The West Bengal government had formed the SIT in 2013 with officers drawn from the state's CID and Kolkata Police. The Supreme Court ordered a probe into the multi-crore-rupee Saradha scam and transferred the case to CBI in 2014. Thousands of investors were left in the lurch by the scam and it led to the arrest of many leaders and ministers of the state's ruling Trinamool Congress. All of them are now out on bail. Saradha group founder Sudipta Sen and his associate Debjani Mukherjee, arrested in 2013 from Kashmir, are in custody. PTI DC RBT ABH ABH New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) Delhi Police removed barricades post-midnight to allow the farmers stopped during the Kisan Kranti Padyatra to enter Delhi and proceed towards Kisan Ghat, said a senior police officer. The farmers entered the national capital riding their tractors and trolleys and proceeded towards Kisan Ghat where heavy police deployment has been made, he added. Thousands of farmers on Tuesday marched towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, blocking traffic movement on arterial roads leading to the national capital. National highways leading to the capital were swamped with farmers who came in from places as far as Gonda, Basti and Gorakhpur in eastern Uttar Pradesh as well as the sugarcane belt of western Uttar Pradesh. Police picketed the border with Uttar Pradesh, imposing prohibitory orders banning assembly of five or more people and holding of any public meeting, usage of any amplifier, loudspeaker, and similar instruments. The Kisan Kranti Yatra, which began from Tikait Ghat in Haridwar on September 23, was joined by farmers from various parts of Uttar Pradesh. They came on foot, in buses and tractor trolleys. They carried banners of Bhartiya Kisan Union, which gave the call for the march to press for a series of demands. Their list of demands include unconditional loan waiver for farmers, clearing of dues by sugar mills, higher prices for crops, free electricity for farms and a cut in diesel prices. PTI SLB KUN KUN New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) Protesting farmers who had marched from Haridwar to Delhi as part of the Kisan Kranti Padyatra, ended their march at the Kisan Ghat in the early hours of Wednesday, police said. Earlier, Delhi Police removed barricades after midnight last night to allow the farmers stopped during the Kisan Kranti Padyatra to enter Delhi and proceed towards Kisan Ghat. The farmers entered the national capital riding their tractors and trolleys and proceeded towards Kisan Ghat where heavy police deployment has been made, he added. Thousands of farmers on Tuesday marched towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, blocking traffic movement on arterial roads leading to the national capital. National highways leading to the capital were swamped with farmers who came in from places as far as Gonda, Basti and Gorakhpur in eastern Uttar Pradesh as well as the sugarcane belt of western Uttar Pradesh. Police picketed the border with Uttar Pradesh, imposing prohibitory orders banning assembly of five or more people and holding of any public meeting, usage of any amplifier, loudspeaker, and similar instruments. The Kisan Kranti Yatra, which began from Tikait Ghat in Haridwar on September 23, was joined by farmers from various parts of Uttar Pradesh. They came on foot, in buses and tractor trolleys. They carried banners of Bhartiya Kisan Union, which gave the call for the march to press for a series of demands. Their list of demands include unconditional loan waiver for farmers, clearing of dues by sugar mills, higher prices for crops, free electricity for farms and a cut in diesel prices. PTI SLB KUN KUN (Eds: Updating with quotes from Sushma Swaraj and Antonio Guterres) New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) A clean and green environment is at the root of his government's policies, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said here Wednesday as he was presented the UN's Champions of the Earth Award by United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres. Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron were jointly awarded the UN's highest environmental honour for their pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and promoting new areas of cooperation on environmental action, according to a statement from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). In his address, Modi said climate and calamity are linked to culture, and it will be difficult to avoid calamity as long as concerns for the climate do not become a part of culture. From agriculture and industrial policies to building houses and construction of toilets, the need for a clean environment has been driving his government's programmes, Modi said. India's commitment to environment has only increased, he said, adding that his government is working to bring down "emission intensity" by 20-25 per cent in the next two years against its 2005 figure and by 30-35 per cent by 2030. "We have also pledged to get rid of single-use plastics by 2022," he said in his speech. Citing ancient Hindu shlokas and texts, the prime minister also referred to India's traditions to assert that respecting nature had always been part of Indian society. He said his government has succeeded in changing people's behaviour accordingly, an apparent reference to 'Swachhta Abhiyan' (cleanliness mission). The honour bestowed on him is a recognition of Indian tribes living in forests who respect trees more than their lives, its fishermen who capture only as much fish as they need to earn their living and farmers whose lives are intertwined with the cycle of seasons, he said. It is also an honour for Indian women who have worshipped trees as gods."Reuse and recycle" have always been a part of their lives, the prime minister said. Indians have always treated nature as a living organism, he said. The poor are the worst victims of climate change, he said, adding that his government has been pursuing policies to further quicken the rate of economy growth to give them a life of dignity. Crores of people have come out of extreme poverty in the past few years, Modi said. Cutting-edge technology and renewable energy are the basis of his government's "smart city" project, while "per drop, more crop", soil health card and organic farming are a priority in agriculture, he said. Modi said he had spoken about "climate justice" during the Paris agreement, which was signed in 2016 with an aim to deal with climate change. The whole world has committed to it but a lot needs to be done to execute it on the ground, he added. The UN Secretary General said technology is on the side of those who believe in a green economy. "We are recognising a statesman who embodies true leadership. In PM Modi we have a leader who realises the issue of climate change and understands the benefits of climate action. He knows the problems and also works to solve them. "A green economy is a good economy. Technology is on the side of those who believe in a green economy. Those who believe in a grey economy have a grey future," Guterres said. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said the prime minister had asserted on the world stage that India would always adhere to its commitments and complete various targets before time. "It is such a thought process that is being honoured today. PM Modi has always believed that we can conserve our environment and move on the path of development. I remember him saying if we face power shortage we will look to the rays of the Sun and work on solar energy," she said. "The award is a fitting recognition of his leadership towards making our world a cleaner place. He was firm that the agreement in Paris has to stay and the world must come together," she added. PTI GJS KR NAB SMN New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj Wednesday met United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and discussed key issues such as UN Security Council reforms and climate change. Guterres, who arrived here Monday on his maiden visit to India as the head of the world body, also presented Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the UN's Champions of the Earth Award on Wednesday. "Working in close synergy with the highest organ of multilateralism. EAM @SushmaSwaraj welcomed UNSG @antonioguterres. Had productive discussions on issues related to climate change, UNSC reforms and other areas of mutual interest," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted after Swaraj's meeting with Guterres. Guterres' visit coincided with the commencement of events marking the 149th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and he also participated in the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention on Tuesday. PTI ASK GVS The government is expected to take a final call soon on the transfer of a "dying" cadre of about 2,000 personnel of the Sashastra Seema Bal to Intelligence Bureau to bolster the latter's on-ground presence at India's eastern borders with China, Nepal and other countries, sources said Wednesday. They said Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba will hold a meeting this week with IB Director Rajiv Jain and newly appointed Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) chief S.S. Deswal. According to the Home Ministry's records accessed by PTI, the agenda of the meeting is to discuss and finalise the long-drawn issue of "transfer of civil wing of SSB to IB". Deswal, who took charge as the SSB Director General on September 30, also held consultations with his senior officers at the forces' headquarters here on Wednesday and elicited views of the civilian cadre on the proposed transfer. "A number of personnel of the civilian cadre are in favour of getting transferred to the IB and this has been conveyed to the new DG," a senior official privy to the development said. The news agency had first reported in September last year that the proposal is a work in progress and 2,765 posts of the civilian cadre of the SSB will be shifted to the IB in the coming days. Of these posts, around 2,030 are operational. A government blueprint prepared in this context had said that "the civil wing of the SSB should be transferred to the IB lock, stock and barrel, including land, physical infrastructure, equipment among others". The proposal was first mooted by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval about two years ago. The manpower of the civil wing of the SSB is termed as "dying" as it does not have any substantial promotional and work avenues. Officials said the idea is to deploy them and use their expertise to strengthen the IB's presence in the eastern border areas along China, Nepal, Myanmar, Bhutan, where these officials have worked for long. The men and women of this cadre were seen as fast losing their sheen as they were not getting timely promotions and could not opt for combat posts as their physical fitness did not allow them to perform arduous tasks and their recruitment rules were different from those of the uniformed staffers. The average age of the personnel in this cadre is above 50 years. Their task was not only to help the border population in integrating with the mainstream, but to also act as the "eyes and ears" of the SSB, the designated lead intelligence agency on the two borders. The cadre was first raised in 1963, in the aftermath of the Chinese aggression of the previous year, to work in the border areas and promote a sense of national belonging and pro-India feelings among the local population. It worked under the external intelligence agencyResearch and Analysis Wing (RAW)till 2001, under the name Special Service Bureau. The name of the force was changed to Sashastra Seema Bal in 2003, following the 1999 Kargil conflict. It was then tasked with guarding the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders on the country's eastern flank. The blueprint envisages that once these officials are transferred to the IB, they will be "utilised for different activities related to intelligence, keeping in view the expertise and proficiency of the incumbents". The SSB, with a strength of about 80,000 personnel, has been guarding the 1,751-km Indo-Nepal border since 2001 and the 699-km Indo-Bhutan border since 2004. It is deployed along the international border in the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, with many of its posts located close to the Sino-India border. New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) The Bharatiya Janata Party took a swipe at the Congress Wednesday after BSP supremo Mayawati called off alliance talks with the opposition party, with its leader Ravi Shankar Prasad saying forging a coalition was not in its DNA and it only gives importance to the Gandhi family. "With whom the Congress allies is entirely their business, but in light of concerns and pain of Mayawati, I can only say that coalition is not a part of the Congress DNA. They only give importance to the family," Prasad told reporters. The Bahujan Samaj Party leader has said her party will contest assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh either on its own or in alliance with regional parties but not with the Congress. She accused the Congress of trying to "finish" the BSP, saying the grand old party was more interested in destroying her party than dislodging the BJP. BJP general secretary Ram Madhav also took a dig at the opposition over its unity efforts. "Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) in 'progress'. First AAP and now BSP calling the bluff. Mayawati says Congress arrogant, a new revelation for her, and declares no alliance in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan too. Chhattisgarh already dumped," he tweeted. Mayawati has announced that the BSP will tie up with Ajit Jogi's party for Chhattisgarh assembly polls. PTI NAB/KR KR ABH ABH New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) It is not enough if Caesar's wife is above suspicion, "Caesar himself should be above suspicion", the Central Information Commission has noted as Aam Aadmi Party MLA from Punjab Sukhpal Singh Khaira refused to give his consent to disclose his degree under the RTI Act. Information Commissioner Divya Prakash Sinha mentioned this famous Shakespearean saying while hearing a petition of an RTI applicant who had sought details of Khaira's educational qualifications but were not provided by DAV College, Chandigarh. The denial of permission by Khaira to disclose his educational qualifications and degree resulted in some sharp comments from Sinha who overruled him and directed the DAV college to disclose the records. Last year, another Information Commissioner Sridhar Acharyulu had ordered inspection of academic records of BA 1978-batch of Delhi University, a year in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi has passed from the University and inspection of class 10 and 12 school records of Union minister Smriti Irani. Both the orders were stayed by the Delhi High Court. Sinha was hearing a petition of an RTI applicant who had sought the information but was not provided by the DAV college, Chandigarh. In his assembly election affidavit in 2017, Khaira has shown his highest educational qualification to be "BA 2nd year from DAV college Chandigarh". The matter came for hearing before Information Commissioner Sinha who asked the official of DAV college reasons behind denial of record. "... CPIO submitted that consent of the third party was sought and based on the refusal of the said third party information was denied to the appellant... submitted that the third party is a sitting MLA in the Punjab Legislative Assembly," Sinha pointed out. The denial of information disclosed in election affidavit by a elected member defies the very spirit of transparency and accountability solicited from a public representative," Sinha observed. "The present set of facts tend to the famous idiom that 'Caesar's wife should be above suspicion' as a mark of ensuring probity in public life but 'it is not enough if Caesar's wife is above suspicion, Caesar himself should be above suspicion'," he noted. The official of DAV college also told the Commission that he also apprehended the availability of this information as it pertained to the year 1984, when preparatory system was being followed, so it is not clear if the third party was part of the preparatory course or B.A Part II course. "The public representative is reposed with the trust of his people who elect him into office based on the declarations made in the nomination papers and other verbal affirmations deeming such individual to be worthy of representing them," Sinha said. He said the aspect of larger public interest in disclosure of the information regarding a public representative who is expected to work towards the welfare of his/her constituency yields to the protection of right to privacy. "When a public representative is making a declaration on affidavit, there ought to be no reason why he should refuse to give his consent for disclosure of the same under RTI Act rather such hesitation raises a reasonable doubt in the minds of his/her constituents regarding the credibility of the representative," he said. Terming the denial as "perturbing", Sinha noted it is established beyond any reasonable doubt that disclosure of the information sought in the instant RTI Application is in larger public interest, a ground to disclose information even after denial from the person to whom it concerns. The Commission directed the DAV college to provide information to the applicant after liaising adequately with the probable holder of information (Chandigarh University). "Further, in the event, copy of degree remains untraceable and/or unavailable; the same should be stated by the CPIO on an appropriately filed affidavit to be sent to the Commission with its copy duly endorsed to the Appellant," he said. PTI ABS ZMN New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) Army personnel of India and the United States gained from each other's experience in various fields of operation during a fortnight-long joint military exercise in Uttarakhand, a senior US Army official has said. The annual exercise named - Yudh Abhyas - was held from September 16-29 in Chaubatia in Almora district. The exercise witnessed participation of an infantry battalion of the Indian Army and the 1st Battalion 23 Infantry Regiment of the US Army. "We had a series of objectives for this exercise. We split it in two portions: A field training exercise from soldier up to battalion-brigade level. "The second part of the exercise that ran concurrently was a simulation driven command post exercise. That was at my level and the brigade level," said Maj. Gen. William H Graham, Deputy Commanding General I Corps and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, in an interaction with PTI. The scenario that drove the command post exercise was a UN-based humanitarian peacekeeping scenario set in a fictional country, he said. Describing the scenario as "quite complex", he said it tested the ability of the soldiers from both the countries to plan, organise and execute that complex operation. Narrating the experience, he said, "My staff was half American and half Indian. We mixed the soldiers together in field training as well into combined companies and they did a series of training exercise and demonstrations and the soldiers learnt from each other how to do their war-fighting tasks." The exercise was the 14th in the Yudh Abhyas series, which started in 2004 under US Army Pacific Partnership Programme. Exercise Yudh Abhyas helped strengthen and broaden the inter-operability and cooperation between the two armies, the Indian Army said in a statement last week. "India has a wealth of experience in peacekeeping operations in the northeast and northwest as well as extensive in Africa, particularly in Congo. The United States has extensive experience in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. "It was tremendous to be able to draw at the solider level...different tactics, different techniques, different procedures and how to accomplish the same tasks when they do in a slightly different ways. We learnt a tremendous amount from Indian soldiers and I believe they learnt similar amount from us," it said. PTI PR ABH ABH Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 3) A military official claimed that the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) is recruiting members in more than 10 universities in Manila through screenings of martial law films. BGen. Antonio Parlade Jr., Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), said the films incite students to rebel against the government. Parlade named that the schools "notorious for school activism" are projecting President Rodrigo Duterte as an authoritarian like former President Ferdinand Marcos. He cited the following names: Adamson University, Ateneo de Manila, Caloocan City College, Earist-Eulogio Amang Rodriguez, Emilio Aguinaldo College, De La Salle University, Far Eastern University, Lyceum College, Philippine Normal University, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, San Beda College, University of the East (Recto and Caloocan), University of Makati, University of Manila, University of the Philippines (Manila and Diliman), and the University of Santo Tomas (UST). He said school boards may not be aware that the CPP is actively recruiting members from these schools. "What the students don't know is that if the CPP wins in this campaign they will implement what's in the CPP constitution," Parlade said, referring to the CPP's establishment of a "proletarian dictatorship." One of the schools tagged by Parlade denied the claim. In a statement released on Twitter, UST Central Student Council President Francis Santos said the AFP report was a "huge allegation," adding it was "outrageous, inappropriate and questionable." "I believe that as an institution, the AFP must do their due diligence to verify and to ensure the veracity of their intelligence information because it has now put the security of the students and of the university at risk," Santos said. Meanwhile, STAND UP, which describes itself as an alliance of organizations, fraternities and sororities in UP Diliman also released a statement denouncing the AFP's claim. In the statement, UP Student Regent Ivy Taroma said, "Instead of responding to the students' clamor for genuine educational reform and a nationalist, scientific, and mass-oriented educational system, the Duterte administration responds to those calls with unrestrained state fascism. He has redtagged institutions, youth groups, and individuals and has exposed them to grave peril." In the same statement, Anakbayan UP Diliman Chairperson Nickolo Domingo also said, "If Duterte wants a Red October, we will make it happen. We will paint the month red with fighting Duterte's tyrannical rule! The broad masses will not hesitate to oust a dictator. We will launch bigger protest actions in the coming days!" The AFP official previously said at least 10 schools in Manila are gearing up for a "Red October" plot to oust Duterte. "Ang bago ngayon, ini-incite nila 'yung mga estudyante na umalsa dahil dito sa mga issues na EJK (extrajudicial killings), kaya nagpi-film showing sila," he said. [Translation: What's new is that they (CPP) are inciting students to rebel because of the issues on extrajudicial killings, that's why they have film showings.] The CPP, in a earlier statement, denounced the crackdown on opposition protests. "To tag people's protests as part of a so-called plot is a threat against legitimate people's organizations mounting these democratic mass actions. To misrepresent the broad coalition against tyranny as a mere conspiracy is to make its members open to suppression through state terrorism," it said. The driver suffered a wound to the shoulder, and he lost control of the vehicle, crashed into a pole and the vehicle turned upside down, police said. He and another 29-year-old man who suffered a gunshot wound to the shoulder were able to get out of the car and run into a nearby hotel, where security called police. New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) A special court has imposed a fine of Rs two lakh on a director of Adhunik Corporation Ltd, accused in a coal scam case, for violating bail conditions by going abroad without its prior permission. However, Special CBI Judge Bharat Parashar did not cancel the bail after the accused -- Mahesh Kumar Agarwal -- tendered "unconditional apology" with an undertaking that no such occasion will arise in future, and the Judge directed him to deposit the fine amount in 'Kerala Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund'. The firm, Agarwal and its another director Nirmal Kumar Agarwal are facing trial for the alleged offence punishable under sections 420 (cheating), 471 (using as genuine a forged document) and 120-B (criminal conspiracy) for the alleged irregularities in allocation of Patrapara coal block in Odisha to the firm. Advoate Vijay Agarwal, appearing for Mahesh, told the court that from December 23, 2016 to January 5, 2017 the accused had "indeed gone to Australia without taking prior permission from the court." "Counsel very fairly admitted that this is a violation of bail condition by accused and accused tenders unconditional apology in this regard with the undertaking that no such occasion will arise in future," the court noted. Public prosecutor V K Sharma and advocate Tarannum Cheema, appearing for CBI, told the court that the accused had violated the bail conditions and he required to be put behind bars after cancelling his bail. "Considering the facts and circumstances of the case coupled with the submissions made and in the interest of justice, I deem it appropriate to grant one opportunity to accused M K Aggarwal and hereby condon the aforesaid act of accused with the direction that he shall deposit a sum of Rs two lakh in Kerala Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund," the court said. The court had on January 15, 2016 granted bail to the accused persons on a personal bond of Rs one lakh each with one surety of like amount after they appeared before it on pursuance of its summons issued against them. The court had summoned the firm and its two directors for alleged offences under sections 120-B, 420, 468 (forgery for the purpose of cheating) and 471 of the IPC after taking cognisance of CBI's charge sheet. In its charge sheet, the CBI said the 30th Screening Committee had recommended M/s Adhunik Corporation Ltd for part allocation of Patrapara coal block. "During the course of investigation, it was found that M/s Adhunik Corporation Ltd had misrepresented on various aspects both to Ministry of Steel and thereby to Ministry of Coal with a view to cheat them so as to procure allocation of Patrapara coal block," CBI had said in its charge sheet. While taking cognisance of the charge sheet, the court had discharged another director of the firm, Ghanshyam Das Agarwal, who was also charge-sheeted by CBI in the case, saying there was no sufficient incriminating evidence on record which could lead to his summoning as an accused in the matter. PTI UK RCJ New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) A five-member panel probing the case of deaths of children at a civic hospital has found that there was an "alarming situation" of non-availability of anti-diphtheria serum (ADS) between last December and September 22, and most of the patients were "not vaccinated" against the infectious disease. The committee, which also had as members doctors from the Delhi government's Maulana Azad Medical College and the Centre's RML Hospital, also observed in its report that most of these patients died due to "heart complications and airway obstruction". North Delhi Mayor Adesh Gupta had set up the panel in the last week of September and it submitted its report on September 26, which was tabled in the House Wednesday. Few more diphtheria-related deaths have been recorded at the facility after the submission of the report. He had last week also suspended medical superintendent of the Maharishi Valmiki Infectious Diseases Hospital Sushil Kumar Gupta for alleged lapses in connection with the deaths of these children at the facility. As many as 30 deaths due to diphtheria have taken place in September at the Maharishi Valmiki Infectious Diseases Hospital at Kingsway Camp, which is the highest for this month since 2015. The number of patients admitted in September this year stands at 223, also the highest since 2015. The NDMC-run hospital, said to be the largest such facility in Asia, procures ADS from Central Research Institute (CRI), Kasauli. "During the period of December 2, 2017 and September 22, 2018, there was not a single dose of ADS in the hospital," according to the report. The report also said that medical superintendent Gupta took a "considerable time" to issue the letter to the higher authorities (DGHS) and also allegedly "failed" to timely communicate the factual position of the non-availability of the ADS to NDMC commissioner. The documents on records show that the MS of the hospital invited quotations from eight private firms for procurement of ADS, it said. "Had the MS reported in time the alarming situation of non-availability of ADS to his higher authority more attempts could have been initiated at the higher levels also to procure it from private firms," the report said. The panel members visited the hospital on September 25 and 26 and conducted inspection of all relevant facilities and reviewed the records and documents. "On inspection of the diphtheria wards, it was note that wards were poorly-lit, proper isolation facilities were not available, intravenous infusion pumps and continuous cardiac-respiratory monitoring facilities were not available and there was no intensive care or high-dependency facilities for sick patients," the report said. "Blood bank facilities are not available in the hospital or in the neighbouring Rajen Babu T Hospital," it added. "Most of the children were non-vaccinated against diphtheria and were from rural areas of Uttar Pradesh and presented late to hospital and as a result developed complications leading to death," it said. The panel has recommended setting up of intensive care unit and high-dependency unit for monitoring of sick patients, and to start blood bank services and a 24-hour ambulance service. According to information shared by the NDMC during its House proceedings Wednesday, a total of 61 deaths have taken place due to diphtheria this year. The rest of the 30 deaths had taken place this year from January till September, a senior official said. Last year, 102 deaths had taken place due to diphtheria, 133 in 2106 and 88 in 2015, according to the information shared by the NDMC authorities. The fatalities reported in previous years for September are -- 22 (in 2015), 26 (2016) and 20 (2017). A senior NDMC official said 1,00 vials of ADS were ordered from a private company on September 25, out of which 550 have been delivered till October 3. "Fifty vias are expected from CR, Kasauli by Thursday," he said. PTI KND KJ In a separate case, two men were named in a criminal complaint for allegedly conspiring to distribute synthetic cannabinoids for the past four years in the Chicago and Rockford areas. The drugs are meant to mimic marijuana, and are typically sprayed on plant material and sold in small, rectangular plastic packages in gas stations, convenience stores and on the street. They are marketed under brand names like K2, Spice and Black Mamba. If your flight has been cancelled or delayed you have the right to compensation under European law. Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers are entitled to up to 600 (534) in compensation when their flight lands at their destination more than three hours late. While for cancelled flights, you have the right to take an alternative flight with the same airline to your destination, or cancel the flight and receive a full refund. But airlines don't always have to pay out and can avoid doing so if the delay is caused by an extraordinary circumstance, such as bad weather or crew strikes. If your flight has been delayed or cancelled you should be able to claim compensation Previously, airlines routinely refused to pay out for delays caused by technical faults, claiming they counted as extraordinary events. But in 2014 two landmark Supreme Court rulings declared that carriers should pay out when a delay was caused by a technical fault. We explain below when you're entitled to compensation, how to claim it, what to do if your claim is rejected and we have included template letters for you to use. While these are the current rules under EU law, your rights will remain the same after Brexit according to the Government, whether we exit with, or without, a deal. What exactly are my rights? Airlines must compensate passengers if their flight is cancelled or heavily delayed. They must also offer you meals, refreshments and hotel accommodation as appropriate whilst you wait for a rearranged flight. There are no time or monetary limits on the provision of this assistance but if your airline does not provide assistance, then keep your spending to a minimum, and make sure you get receipts and claim reimbursement from your airline when you get home. Download Regulation (EC) 261/2004 WHAT IF EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCES DO OCCUR? Airlines have a duty of care to look after stranded passengers, even if cancellations are due to extraordinary circumstances out of their control. If you have been left stuck and out of pocket by your airline, then you will need to keep a record of what you have spent, including receipts and try to reclaim from airline using the EU rule. How does compensation work for delayed flights? Under the rules, airlines must pay compensation for cancelled or heavily delayed flights, but how much youre entitled to depends on the flight you booked and the amount of time youve been delayed by. At present, the flight must have departed from an EU airport, operating by any airline, or it must be arriving into an EU airport and be operated by an EU airline. The 'EU airport' also includes the following countries; Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. It also needs to have been at least three hours late arriving at your destination to be eligible for compensation. The amounts available start from 250 (223) for flights of less than 1,500km long which are delayed by at least three hours and go up to 600 (536) for flights of more than 3,500km between an EU and non-EU airport, delayed by at least four hours. HOW MUCH YOU'RE ENTITLED TO IF YOUR FLIGHT IS DELAYED Delay to your arrival Flight distance Amount of compensation At least three hours Less than 1,500km 250 Between 1,500km and 3,500km 400 More than 1,500km and within the EU 400 Three to four hours More than 3,500km, between an EU and non-EU airport 300 At least four hours More than 3,500km, between an EU and non-EU airport 600 How to claim compensation for a delay Passengers can claim by telling the airline their flight number, names of passengers and the reason for the delay (we have included template letters at the end of this guide). If you cant remember how long the delay was, the website Flightstats.com is free to use and will show you how long a flight has been delayed for, although it wont state what the delay was for. If the claim is rejected, but you believe it's valid you can escalate it to the ombudsman or the relevant regulator (this will depend on the airline). If you still dont get the answer you believe is right it is possible to take the airline to the small claims court. How to claim compensation for a cancelled flight If a flight is cancelled you should be offered an alternative flight with the same airline to your destination either on the day or the day after, if there is room, or a full refund for the flight you booked. But if neither of these are possible you should be given the option of a flight with a different airline to your destination, if theres space. If you end up paying for this separately you should be able to claim any extra money paid back if you can prove no other suitable option was given by the original airline. If you were given more than 14 days notice about the cancellation, you will only be entitled to a new flight or a refund for your original flight. But if you were given 14 or less days notice, you might be able to claim compensation on top of a refund or alternative flight. The amount of compensation of offer differs depending on when you were told about the cancellation, the length of the flight, and how long you had to wait for a new flight. The cancellation also needs to have been something which could have been avoided by the airline so you won't be able to claim for reasons such as a crew strike or extreme weather conditions. To apply for compensation, which can be from 125 to 600, contact the airline directly and outline what has happened and why you are entitled to it. There are free template letters for you to use at the end of this article. Rules: You should be able to claim compensation for flight delays dating back six years. Can my airline turn down my claim? Airlines don't have to accept every claim and they can turn them down if 'extraordinary circumstances' apply. However if this is the case, the airline still has a duty of care to passengers. The rules state that airlines must provide passengers with accommodation, meals and refreshments and transport between the airport and accommodation. Airlines are breaking the rules if they shirk this obligation. If your airline turns down your claim under extraordinary circumstances you can challenge this if you do not believe it to be true. Write back to them explaining why this is not the case and explain that you will take the matter up with the Civil Aviation Authority if it is not settled properly. The problem is that many airlines are still trying to wriggle out of such claims and a classic example of this is airlines claiming technical faults as extraordinary circumstances. This is because the regulation gives no definition of exactly what extraordinary circumstances are, but does give some examples. It says: 'As under the Montreal Convention, obligations on operating air carriers should be limited or excluded in cases where an event has been caused by extraordinary circumstances which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken. 'Such circumstances may, in particular, occur in cases of political instability, meteorological conditions incompatible with the operation of the flight concerned, security risks, unexpected flight safety shortcomings and strikes that affect the operation of an operating air carrier.' The crucial part of this is that it says 'which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken'. This means that you can challenge the technical fault defence on the basis that an airline should have reasonable expectation that things can go wrong on an aircraft and should have contingency plans in place, such as having replacement parts or access to them where it operates. If your flight is delayed by more than three hours you should be able to claim from your airline If your airline tries to claim extraordinary circumstances, challenge them to explain exactly what they were and why they could not have been reasonably avoided. The onus is on them to prove this. How far back can I claim? Regulation (EC) 261 does not set a time limit on how far back claims can go, instead stating that this should be determined by the laws in respective EU countries. In the UK, the statute of limitations law is six years, so by this logic an airline should consider claims for delays dating back six years from the time the claim is submitted. Some airlines have used legal loopholes to avoid paying out here too. In 2014 we reported the case of a Monarch passenger who found the airline was delaying their claim while it waited for a court ruling. When that ruling arrived in the passengers' favour, the This is Money reader tried to claim only to be told that he was out of the six years. When he contested this on the basis it was Monarch that delayed things not him, he was told that despite having been in touch regularly over the years, as he had not made a court claim within the past six years he was outside the allotted time period. Monarch said: 'If a customer presents their claim to an airline within six years but does not issue court proceedings and the six years have now expired, they are unfortunately unable to claim. You will not be able to claim compensation if you are delayed because of bad weather 'It is our customers' responsibility to seek legal advice from either the Citizen's Advice Bureau, Civil Aviation Authority, or otherwise in order to find out if they need to take any action to stop time running out under the Limitation Act.' What will happen when I ask for compensation? If you are not given the assistance that you are due, you will need to make a claim against the airline. You will need receipts and proof of expenses and they must be reasonable. What about travel insurance? Most travel insurance policies should cover passengers for extra expenses incurred if they are stuck. Depending on the policy, this could cover the knock-on effects of not being able to fly. Cancelled hotels, trips and other expenses already paid out could be reclaimed under your travel insurance. It is important to check your policy carefully to see what is covered, any exclusions and the relevant excesses. Once again keep any extra spending to reasonable level, hold onto receipts and if in doubt, call your insurer before paying for anything. Travel insurance does not override airlines duty of care, but you cannot claim for the same thing twice. It is always unclear what airlines will do when faced with claims. Some may try and refuse to pay and stave off claims. If this happens passengers need to use the courts to force payment. The best way to do this is through the small claims track of the county court. How to use the small claims court What can't I claim? Your expenses should be reasonable such as a hotel similar to the standard of the one you were staying in or a simple meal. Living it large and then trying to charge it to the airline is unlikely to work. You are also unlikely to find airlines paying for the expense of you abandoning your flight and navigating your way home yourself. Although, if you have taken the simplest and best-value route you may be covered and if you had been advised to get yourself home and that you would be reimbursed by the airline, then you should state this and claim. This is Money has heard a lot of reports of airlines trying to fob off passengers, deny they are issuing reimbursements or claim that this is not the law. That is untrue and while you may need to be persistent, you should get your money. If your airline does claim extraordinary circumstances, they need not pay the compensation amounts above but still have a duty of care to look after you and get you where you are meant to be going. You should tell them that under Regulation (EC) 261/2004 Article 5 you are entitled to be reimbursed or re-routed under Article 8 and also offered assistance, including accommodation, meals and transport under Article 9. Reclaim: The sample letter below can be copied and pasted to help you with your claim. You should also state that under Article 5, airlines are able to not pay compensation in accordance with article 7 in the case of 'extraordinary circumstances', but crucially that this extraordinary circumstances clause does not apply to the entitlement to assistance under Article 9. The sample reclaim letters We have provided a sample paragraph and letter for you to use. Either copy and paste the paragraph into your letter, or use the letter template and add your personal details into it. Copy and paste the text, as needed, adding in your details. For more advice visit the Civil Aviation Authority website . Delays or cancellations not classed as extraordinary circumstances Dear Sir/Madam I am writing regarding flight [flight number] on [date] from [departure airport] to [arrival airport] with the scheduled departure time of [scheduled departure time]. My booking reference is [booking or reservation reference if available]. This flight arrived [number of hours] hours late at [airport] (or) This flight was cancelled and I arrived late on [time and date of arrival]. The passengers in the party were [names of party]. The judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union in Tui & others v CAA confirmed the applicability of compensation for delay as set out in the Sturgeon case. As such, I am seeking compensation under EC Regulation 261/2004 for this delayed flight. My scheduled flight length was [number of kilometres see here if you need to check flight length http://gc.kls2.com /], therefore I am seeking [if less than 1500km: 250, if more than 1500km but less than 3500km: 400, if more than 3500km: 600) per delayed passenger in my party. The total compensation sought is ]. I look forward to hearing from you and would welcome a response in 14 days, Yours faithfully, [passenger name] Delays or cancellations classed as extraordinary circumstances Dear Sir/Madam I am writing regarding flight [flight number] on [date] from [departure airport] to [arrival airport] with the scheduled departure time of [scheduled departure time]. My booking reference is [booking or reservation reference if available]. This flight arrived [number of hours] hours late at [airport] (or) This flight was cancelled and I arrived late on [time and date of arrival]. Unfortunately, your airline failed to meet its obligations under EU rules and did not provide me with the assistance it should have in the form of rerouting home / accommodation / meals / transport to the airport. [Delete as applicable.] I am therefore asking you to please compensate me for ----. I enclose receipts. The EU rules that state that I should have been assisted by yourselves are in Regulation (EC) 261/2004. In this Article 5 states that in the case of cancellation or delay of more than one day I am entitled to be reimbursed or re-routed under Article 8 and also offered assistance, including accommodation, meals and transport under Article 9. Article 9 states: 1. Where reference is made to this Article, passengers shall be offered free of charge: (a) meals and refreshments in a reasonable relation to the waiting time; (b) hotel accommodation in cases where a stay of one or more nights becomes necessary, or where a stay additional to that intended by the passenger becomes necessary; (c) transport between the airport and place of accommodation (hotel or other). 2. In addition, passengers shall be offered free of charge two telephone calls, telex or fax messages, or e-mails. 3. In applying this Article, the operating air carrier shall pay particular attention to the needs of persons with reduced mobility and any persons accompanying them, as well as to the needs of unaccompanied children. Under Article 5 part 3, airlines are able to avoid paying compensation in accordance with Article 7 in the case of 'extraordinary circumstances', but this extraordinary circumstances clause does not apply to the entitlement to assistance under Article 9. A 2014 ruling ratified by the Supreme Court, in the case of Huzar vs Jet2, says that European airlines can no longer claim technical faults as extraordinary circumstances, so must pay out compensation for flight delays of longer than three hours such cases. I thank you for your assistance with this and await your response, Tesco is the latest in a line of UK supermarkets to warn over the risk of fresh food rotting at the borders if the UK crashes out of the EU without a deal. As Tesco puts contingency plans in place for a no-deal Brexit, boss Dave Lewis said that ensuring uninterrupted transport of fresh food across borders would be the 'single biggest challenge' for supermarkets. Tesco boss Dave Lewis said keeping a flow of fresh food would be the 'biggest challenge' He said: 'The biggest single challenge will be in a no-deal scenario and what happens with fresh food. The possibility of stockpiling fresh food is very, very limited.' Lewis stopped short of confirming if Tesco was actively stockpiling, but said it was a possibility with dry food. He is the second grocery chief to highlight the issue this week. On Monday, German discounter Aldi said it had considered stockpiling food as part of its preparations for Brexit. But its UK boss, Giles Hurley, cautioned that Aldi's expanded fresh food range would make this more difficult. Tesco's Lewis added that the firm was preparing for the eventuality of a 'no-deal' but it was still in 'wait and see' mode until the outcome of negotiations becomes clearer. He said transporting fresh food is 'where all our attention will be in the lead-up' to Brexit, with contingency planning stepping up after Christmas if a deal is still not struck. The comments came as Tesco unveiled half-year results. Despite posting a 24 per cent spike in operating profits, the supermarket undershot analyst expectations, sending its share price falling in early trading. Tesco's shares have taken a tumble today as profits missed analysts' high expectations Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab said in July that the Government is making plans to secure food supply in the event of no deal being struck. But he said it was 'wrong to describe it as the Government doing the stockpiling', indicating that industry would need to take the lead. Research by Barclays Corporate Banking last week revealed that food retailers face a mammoth 9.3billion cost in the event of a no-deal Brexit. It said higher tariffs and customs costs could hit supermarkets and their supply chains hard, and warned that the price of some groceries may go up as a result. The new tank set for the British Army is to be faster and use thermal cameras (stock image) Weapons-maker BAE has lifted the lid on its plans for the next battle tank for the British Army. Its vehicle, dubbed Black Night, would be faster, use thermal cameras to find targets and automatically respond to incoming missiles. BAE is bidding to update the army's Challenger 2, with designs developed at its base in the West Midlands. BAE's Simon Jackson said: 'The army has our commitment that we will deliver the most capable upgrade possible, and the best value for money.' American Consumer News, LLC dba MarketBeat 2010-2021. All rights reserved. 326 E 8th St #105, Sioux Falls, SD 57103 | U.S. Based Support Team at [email protected] | (844) 978-6257 MarketBeat does not provide personalized financial advice and does not issue recommendations or offers to buy stock or sell any security. Our Accessibility Statement | Terms of Service | Do Not Sell My Information 2021 Market data provided is at least 10-minutes delayed and hosted by Barchart Solutions. Information is provided 'as-is' and solely for informational purposes, not for trading purposes or advice, and is delayed. To see all exchange delays and terms of use please see disclaimer. Fundamental company data provided by Zacks Investment Research. The following companies are subsidiares of Quest Diagnostics: AmeriPath, AmeriPath Cincinnati Inc. (OH), AmeriPath Cleveland Inc. (OH), AmeriPath Consolidated Labs Inc. (FL), AmeriPath Florida LLC (DE), AmeriPath Hospital Services Florida LLC (DE), AmeriPath Inc. (DE), AmeriPath Indianapolis PC (IN), AmeriPath Kentucky Inc. (KY), AmeriPath Lubbock 5.01(A) Corporation (TX), AmeriPath New York LLC (DE), AmeriPath Texas Inc. (DE), AmeriPath Tucson Inc. (AZ), American Medical Laboratories, American Medical Laboratories Incorporated (DE), Associated Clinical Laboratories L.P. (PA), Associated Clinical Laboratories of Pennsylvania L.L.C. (PA), Athena Diagnostics, Athena Diagnostics Inc. (DE), Blueprint Genetics, Blueprint Genetics FZ-LLC (UAE), Blueprint Genetics Inc. (DE), Blueprint Genetics Oy (Finland), California Laboratory Associates, Cape Cod Healthcare - Business, Celera, ClearPoint Diagnostic, Clearpoint Diagnostic Laboratories LLC (TX), Cleveland HeartLab, Cleveland HeartLab Inc. (DE), Clinical Laboratory Partners, Colorado Pathology Consultants P.C. (CO), ConVerge Diagnostic Services, Consolidated DermPath Inc. (DE), DFW 5.01(a) Corporation (TX), DGXWMT JV LLC (DE), Dermatopathology of Wisconsin S.C. (WI), Diagnostic Laboratory of Oklahoma LLC (OK), Diagnostic Pathology Services Inc. (OK), Diagnostic Reference Services Inc. (MD), ExamOne Canada Inc. (New Brunswick), ExamOne LLC (DE), ExamOne World Wide Inc. (PA), ExamOne World Wide of NJ Inc. (NJ), Focus Diagnostics, HemoCue, Hoffman M.D. Associated Pathologists Chartered (NV), Institute for Dermatopathology Inc. (PA), Isabella Street Urban Renewal LLC (NJ), Kailash B. Sharma M.D. Inc. (GA), Kilpatrick Pathology P.A. (NC), LabOne, LabOne LLC (MO), LabOne of Ohio Inc. (DE), Laboratorio de Analisis Biomedicos S.A. (Mexico), Lancet Labs, MACL, Med Fusion LLC (TX), Med fusion, MedPlus, Mid America Clinical Laboratories LLC (IN), Nomad Massachusetts Inc. (MA), Nuclear Medicine and Pathology Associates (GA), Ocmulgee Medical Pathology Association Inc. (GA), Pathology Building Partnership (MD) (gen. ptnrshp.), PeaceHealth Laboratories, PhenoPath Laboratories, PhenoPath Laboratories PLLC (WA), Q Squared Solutions Holdings LLC (DE), Q Squared Solutions Holdings Limited (UK), Quest Diagnostics (Shanghai) Co. Ltd. (China), Quest Diagnostics Brasil Holdings Ltd. (UK), Quest Diagnostics Clinical Laboratories, Quest Diagnostics Clinical Laboratories Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics Domestic Holder LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics HTAS India Private Limited (India), Quest Diagnostics Health & Wellness LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Holdings Incorporated (DE), Quest Diagnostics Holdings Ltd. (UK), Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (MD), Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (NV), Quest Diagnostics India Private Limited (India), Quest Diagnostics Infectious Disease Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics International Holdings Limited (UK), Quest Diagnostics International LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Investments LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Ireland Limited (Ireland), Quest Diagnostics LLC (CT), Quest Diagnostics LLC (IL), Quest Diagnostics LLC (MA), Quest Diagnostics Massachusetts LLC (MA), Quest Diagnostics Mexico Holding Company Trust (Mexico), Quest Diagnostics Mexico S de RL de CV (Mexico), Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute (CA), Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute Inc. (VA), Quest Diagnostics Receivables Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics Subsidiary Holdings Ltd. (UK), Quest Diagnostics TB LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Terracotta LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Venture LLC (PA), Quest Diagnostics Ventures LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics do Brasil Ltda. (Brazil), Quest Diagnostics of Pennsylvania Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics of Puerto Rico Inc. (PR), Quest HealthConnect LLC (CA), ReproSource, Reprosource Fertility Diagnostics Inc. (MA), Solstas Lab Partners, Sonora Quest Laboratories LLC (AZ), Specialty Laboratories Inc. (CA), Summit Health, UMass Memorial Medical Center - Anatomic Pathology Outreach Laboratory Business, Unilab Corporation, and Unilab Corporation (DE). Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. distributes and sells propane and related equipment and supplies. The company transports propane to propane distribution locations, tanks on customers' premises, or to portable propane tanks delivered to retailers. It conducts its portable tank exchange operations under the Blue Rhino brand name through a network of independent and partnership-owned distribution outlets. The company's propane is primarily used for space heating, water heating, cooking, outdoor cooking using gas grills, crop drying, irrigation, weed control, and other propane fueled appliances; as an engine fuel for combustion engine vehicles and forklifts; and as a heating or energy source in manufacturing and drying processes. It serves residential, industrial/commercial, portable tank exchange, agricultural, wholesale, and other customers in the United States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. As of July 31, 2018, it operated 72 service centers and 859 propane distribution locations. The company is also involved in the sale of refined fuels; provision of common carrier services; and retail sale of propane appliances and related parts and fittings, as well as other retail propane related services and consumer products. Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. was founded in 1939 and is headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas. Read More Because of the legacy of mistrust that exists between Chicago law enforcement and black Chicago the Van Dyke case is symbolic, Livingston said. What its symbolic of is the unequal application of justice that has existed in Chicago in the black community. So even though hes a police officer, what has to happen here in order for the black community to have some sense of justice is that no one is seen to be above the law. 11 hours ago Climate consensus appears near; India objects to coal plans GLASGOW, Scotland (AP) Almost 200 nations were poised Saturday to adopt a compromise on how to curb climate change and to keep a key global warming target alive after 15 days of contentious climate talks. During nearly three hours of discussions, nation after nation said the proposed agreement did not go far enough, but only India and Iran appeared inclined to object. Read Article Freeport-McMoRan, Inc. engages in the mining of copper, gold and molybdenum. It operates through the following segments: North America Copper Mines, South America Mining; Indonesia Mining, Molybdenum Mines, Rod and Refining, Atlantic Copper Smelting and Refining and Corporate, Other and Eliminations. The North America Copper Mines segment operates open-pit copper mines in Morenci, Bagdad, Safford, Sierrita and Miami in Arizona and Chino and Tyrone in New Mexico. The South America Mining segment includes Cerro Verde in Peru and El Abra in Chile. The Indonesia Mining segment handles the operations of Grasberg minerals district that produces copper concentrate that contains significant quantities of gold and silver. The Molybdenum Mines segment includes the Henderson underground mine and Climax open-pit mine, both in Colorado. The Rod and Refining segment consists of copper conversion facilities located in North America and includes a refinery, rod mills, and a specialty copper products facility. The Atlantic Copper Smelting and Refining segment smelts and refines copper concentrate and markets refined copper and precious metals in slimes. The Corporate, Other and Eliminations segment Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Accenture: 2nd Road, 2nd Road Pty Ltd., ?What If!, ?What If! China Holdings Ltd, ?What If! Holdings Limited, ?What If! Innovation Singapore Holdings Pte, ?What If! Limited, ?What If! Shanghai Co. Ltd, ?What If! USA LLC, ACN Consulting Co Ltd, AD Dialeto Agencia de Publicidade SA, AD.Dialeto (Digital Agency acquired by Accenture), AGS Business and Technology Services Limited, ASM Research Inc., ASM Research LLC, ATAN, Accenture (Beijing) Mobile Technology Co Ltd, Accenture (Botswana) (Proprietary) Limited, Accenture (China) Co Ltd, Accenture (Shenzhen) Technology Co. Ltd., Accenture (South Africa) (Proprietary) Limited, Accenture (South Africa) Pty Limited, Accenture (UK) Ltd, Accenture 2 Business Process Services S.A., Accenture 2 LLC, Accenture A/S, Accenture AB, Accenture AG, Accenture AS, Accenture Africa Pty Ltd, Accenture Australia Holding B.V., Accenture Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, Accenture Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture Azerbaijan Ltd, Accenture BPM Operations Support Services S.A., Accenture BPM S.C.R.L., Accenture BV, Accenture Branch Holdings B.V., Accenture Bulgaria EOOD, Accenture Business Services for Utilities Inc, Accenture Business Services of British Columbia Limited Partnership, Accenture Business and Technology Services LLC, Accenture C.A, Accenture CAS GmbH, Accenture Canada Holdings Inc., Accenture Capital DAC, Accenture Capital Inc, Accenture Central Europe B.V., Accenture Chile Asesorias y Servicios Ltda, Accenture Cloud Services GmbH, Accenture Cloud Software Solutions Ltd, Accenture Cloud Solutions Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture Cloud Solutions LLC, Accenture Cloud Solutions Ltd, Accenture Cloud Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Co Ltd, Accenture Co Ltd., Accenture Communications Infrastructure Solutions Ltd, Accenture Company Ltd, Accenture Consulting Services Ltd Tanzania, Accenture Consultores de Gestao S.A., Accenture Consultoria de Industria e Consumo Ltda, Accenture Consultoria de Recursos Naturais Ltda, Accenture Credit Services LLC, Accenture Customer Services Distribution SAS, Accenture Customer Services Limited, Accenture Danismanlik Limited Sirketi, Accenture Defined Benefit Pension Plan Trustees Ltd, Accenture Defined Contribution Pension Plan Trustees Ltd, Accenture Delivery Poland sp. z o.o., Accenture Dienstleistungen GmbH, Accenture Digital France Holdings SA, Accenture Digital Holdings GmbH, Accenture East Africa Limited, Accenture Ecuador S.A., Accenture Egypt LLC, Accenture Enterprise Development (Shanghai) Co Ltd., Accenture Federal Services LLC, Accenture Finance (Gibraltar) III Ltd, Accenture Finance GmbH, Accenture Finance GmbH in liquidation, Accenture Finance II GmbH, Accenture Finance II GmbH in liquidation, Accenture Finance II Ltd, Accenture Finance Limited, Accenture Finance and Accounting BPO Services S.p.A., Accenture Finance and Accounting Services Srl, Accenture Flex LLC, Accenture GP LLC, Accenture Ghana Limited, Accenture Global Holdings Ltd., Accenture Global Services Ltd, Accenture Global Solutions Ltd, Accenture GmbH, Accenture HR Services Ltd, Accenture HR Services S.p.A., Accenture Healthcare Processing Inc., Accenture Holding GmbH, Accenture Holding GmbH & Co. KG, Accenture Holding GmbH in liquidation, Accenture Holdings (Iberia) S.L., Accenture Holdings B.V., Accenture Holdings France SAS, Accenture Holdings plc, Accenture Hungary Holdings Kft, Accenture Inc, Accenture Industrial Software Limited Liability Company (Accenture Endustriyel Yazylym Cozumleri Limited irketi), Accenture Industrial Software Limited Liability Company (Accenture Endustriyel Yazlm Cozumleri Limited Sirketi), Accenture Industrial Software Solutions Kft, Accenture Industrial Software Solutions SA, Accenture Insurance Services LLC, Accenture Insurance Services SAS, Accenture Insurance Services SpA, Accenture International BV, Accenture International Capital SCA, Accenture International LLC, Accenture International Limited, Accenture International Sarl, Accenture Japan Ltd, Accenture Korea BV, Accenture LLC, Accenture LLP, Accenture Lanka (Private) Ltd, Accenture Limited, Accenture Ltd, Accenture Ltda, Accenture Maghreb S.a.r.l., Accenture Managed Services SRL, Accenture Managed Services SpA, Accenture Management GmbH, Accenture Middle East B.V, Accenture Middle East BV, Accenture Minority I BV, Accenture Minority III Ltd, Accenture Mozambique Limitada, Accenture Mzansi (Pty) Ltd, Accenture NV/SA, Accenture NZ Limited, Accenture Newco LLC, Accenture Nova Scotia Unlimited Liability Co., Accenture OOO, Accenture Operations Sp. z o.o., Accenture Outsourcing SRL, Accenture Outsourcing Services, Accenture Outsourcing Services S.A., Accenture Oy, Accenture Panama Inc, Accenture Participations BV, Accenture Participations II Limited, Accenture Peru S.R.L, Accenture Peru S.R.L., Accenture Post Trade Processing SAS, Accenture Post-Trade Processing Limited, Accenture Process Ltd, Accenture Product Lifecycle Services, Accenture Properties, Accenture Pte Ltd, Accenture Puerto Rico LLC, Accenture S.A., Accenture S.C., Accenture S.L., Accenture S.R.L., Accenture SAS, Accenture SG Services Pte Ltd, Accenture SRL, Accenture Saudi Arabia Limited, Accenture Sendirian Berhad, Accenture Service Center SRL, Accenture Services (Mauritius) Ltd, Accenture Services AB, Accenture Services AG, Accenture Services AS, Accenture Services GmbH, Accenture Services Ltd, Accenture Services Morocco SA, Accenture Services Oy, Accenture Services Pty Ltd, Accenture Services S.r.l., Accenture Services SRL, Accenture Services Sp. z o.o., Accenture Services Sp. z.o.o., Accenture Services and Technology Srl, Accenture Services fur Kreditinstitute GmbH, Accenture Services s.r.o., Accenture Servicos Administrativos Ltda, Accenture Servicos de Suporte de Negocios Ltda, Accenture Solutions Co Ltd, Accenture Solutions Private Limited, Accenture Solutions Pte Ltd, Accenture Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Solutions Sdn Bhd, Accenture Sp. z o.o., Accenture Sp. z.o.o., Accenture SpA, Accenture State Healthcare Services LLC, Accenture Sub II Inc., Accenture Sub Inc, Accenture Sub LLC, Accenture Systems Integration Limited, Accenture Sarl, Accenture Tanacsado Kolatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Accenture Tanacsado Kolatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag KFT, Accenture Technologia, Accenture Technologia Consultoria e Outsourcing S.A., Accenture Technology Infrastructure Services Pty Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions (Dalian) Co Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions (HK) Co. Ltd., Accenture Technology Solutions (Thailand) Co. Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions - Solucoes Informaticas Integradas, Accenture Technology Solutions - Solucoes Informaticas Integradas S.A., Accenture Technology Solutions GmbH, Accenture Technology Solutions Oy, Accenture Technology Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions S.A. de C.V., Accenture Technology Solutions SAS, Accenture Technology Solutions SRL, Accenture Technology Solutions Sdn. Bhd., Accenture Technology Solutions Slovakia s.r.o., Accenture Technology Ventures BV, Accenture Technology Ventures S.P.R.L., Accenture Uruguay SRL, Accenture Vietnam Co., Accenture Vietnam Co. LTD, Accenture Zambia Limited, Accenture do Brasil Limitada, Accenture plc, Accenture s.r.o., Acceria, Acquity Customer Insight Limited, Acquity Group, Adaptly LLC, Adaptly UK Limited, AddVal Technology, Adqptly, Advantium Inc., Agave Consultants Limited, Agilex Technologies Inc., Allen International, Allen International Consulting Group Ltd, Alnova Technologies Corporation S.L., AlphaBeta Advisors, Altima, Altima Asia Ltd., Altima SAS, Altitude, Altitude LLC, Analytics 8 LP, Analytics 8 Pty Ltd, Analytics8, Aorui Advertising (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Apis, Appaloosa Technology SAS, Arca, Ariba - BPO, Arismore, Aspiro Solutions (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Avanade, Avanade (Guangzhou) Computer Technology Development Co. Ltd., Avanade (Thailand) Co Ltd, Avanade Asia Pte Ltd, Avanade Australia Pty Ltd, Avanade Belgium SPRL, Avanade Canada Inc., Avanade Denmark A/S, Avanade Denmark ApS, Avanade Deutschland GmbH, Avanade Europe Holdings Ltd, Avanade Europe Services Ltd, Avanade Federal Services LLC, Avanade Finland Oy, Avanade France SAS, Avanade GZ Computer Technology Development Co. Ltd. (SH), Avanade Guangzhou, Avanade Holdings LLC, Avanade Hong Kong Ltd, Avanade International Corporation, Avanade Ireland Limited, Avanade Italy SRL, Avanade KK, Avanade Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avanade Netherlands BV, Avanade Norway AS, Avanade Poland Sp. z o.o., Avanade Poland Sp. z.o.o., Avanade Schweiz GmbH, Avanade South Africa, Avanade South Africa Pty Ltd, Avanade Spain SL, Avanade Sweden AB, Avanade UK Ltd, Avanade do Brasil Limitada, Avanade Osterreich GmbH, AvantBiz Consulting Limited, Avenai, Axia Ltd., BABCN LLC, BCT Solutions, BCT Solutions Pty Ltd, BPO Servicos Administrativos Ltda, BRIDGE Energy Group, Beacon Consulting Group Inc., Beijing Genesis Interactive Technology Co. Ltd., Benext, Bionic, Blue Horseshoe, Boomerang Pharmaceutical Communications, Boomerang Pharmaceuticals Communications Ireland Limited, Bow & Arrow, Brand Learning, Brand Learning Group Limited, Brand Learning LLC, Brand Learning Ltd, Brand Learning Partners Limited, Brand Learning Pte Limited, Bridge Energy Group LLC, Brightstep AB, Byte Prophecy, CAS, CRMWaypoint, CadenceQuest Inc., Capable Marketer Limited, Capgemini - North American health practice, Capital Consultancy Services Inc., Certus Solutions Consulting Services Ltd, Certus Solutions Ltd, ChangeTrack Research Pty Ltd., Chaotic Moon Studios, Chengdu Mensa Advertising Co. Ltd., Cimation, Cimation UK Limited, Cirruseo, Cirruseo SAS, Clarity Insights, Clearhead, Clearhead Group, Clearhead Group LLC, ClientHouse GmbH, Cloud Sherpas, Cloud Sherpas (GA) LLC, Cloud Sherpas (SN) (PTE.) Limited, Cloud Sherpas New Zealand Ltd., Cloud Talent Limited, Cloudsherpas, Cloudsherpas Inc., Cloudworks, Codagenic Pty. Ltd., Computer Research and Telecommunications LLC, Concrete Desenvolvimento de Sistemas Ltda., Concrete Solutions, Concrete Solutions Ltda., Context Information Security, Coritel S.A., Corliant Inc., CreativeDrive, CustomerWorks Europe SL, Cutting Edge Solutions Ltd, D5 Global Holdings LLC, DAZ Systems Inc, DAZ Systems LLC, DAZSI Systems (India) Pvt. Ltd., DMA Solutions Limited, Davies Consulting, DayNine Consulting, DayNine Consulting (Australia) PTY LTD, DayNine Consulting (Deutschland) GmbH, DayNine Consulting (New Zealand) Limited, DayNine Consulting France SAS, DayNine Consulting Japan K.K., DayNine Consulting LLC, Declarative Holdings, Declarative Holdings LLC, Defense Point Security, Deja vu Security, Design Strategy and Research de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Designaffairs LLC, Digiplug S.A.S., Digiplug SAS, Digital Consulting & Software Services LLC, Droga5, Droga5 LLC, Droga5 Studios LLC, Droga5 UK Ltd., Duck Creek Technologies, Duck Creek Technologies LLC, Deja Vu Security LLC, ESR Labs, Elcurator SAS, Enaxis Consulting, Enaxis Consulting L.P., End-to-End Analytics, Energuia Web, Energuia Web S.A., Energy Management Brokers Ltd., Energy Quote Private Ltd., EnergyQuote JHA, EnergyQuote JHA Ltd., EnergyQuote Trading Ltd., Enimbos, Enkitec, Enterprise System Partners, Enterprise System Partners B.V. , Enterprise System Partners Bilisim Danismanlik Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, Enterprise System Partners Global Corporation, Enterprise System Partners Limited, Enterprise System Partners PR LLC, Enterprise System Partners S.A.S., Entropia, Epylon, Ethica Consulting Group, Evopro Group, Exactside Limited, Exton Consulting, Fairway Technologies Inc, Fairway Technologies LLC, Filmproduction ApS, First Annapolis Consulting, First Annapolis Consulting Inc., First Annapolis Consulting LLC, First Annapolis International, Fjord, Focus Group Europe, Focus Group Europe Limited, Formicary, Formicary Holdings Limited, Formicary Limited, FusionX, FutureMove Automotive, Gapso Servicos de Informatica Ltda., Genfour, Genfour Limited, George Group Consulting L.P., Gestalt LLC, Gestion Altima Canada Inc., Gevity, Global Public Firm S.L., GlobalView SAS, GoodFilm GmbH Filmproduktion Stuttgart, H.B. Maynard and Co. Inc., HRC Retail Advisory, Hagberg Consulting Group, Hangzhou Aiyunzhe Technology Co. Ltd., Happen, Hjaltelin Stahl, Hjaltelin Stahl K/S, Hytracc Consulting AS, Hytracc Consulting Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Hytracc Consulting UK Limited, Hytracc Holding AS, I-Faber S.p.A., IBB Consulting, IMJ Corp, IMJ Corporation, INCAD, INSITUM, IT One Company Limited, ITBS Servicios Bancarios de Tecnologia de la Informacion SL, Icon Integration, Imagine Broadband (USA) Ltd, Imagine Broadband USA LLC, Imaginea Inc, Industrie&Co, Infoman AG, Infoman Schweiz AG, Informatica de Euskadi S.L., Infusion Development Inc., Infusion Development UK Limited, InfusionDev LLC, Innoveer Solutions India Pvt Ltd, Insitum Consultoria Argentina SRL, Insitum Consultoria Brasil LTDA, Insitum Consultoria Colombia SAS, Insitum Consultoria Europa SL, Insitum Consultoria Peru SAC, Insitum Consultoria S.A. de C.V., Intrepid, Intrigo Systems Inc, Intrigo Systems India Pvt. Limited, Intrigo Systems LLC, Inventor Advertisement (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Inventor Technology Limited, InvestTech, Investtech Systems Consulting LLC, Javelin Group, Javelin Group (Bulgaria) EOOD, Javelin Group Limited (UK), Javelin Group SASU, K Comms Group Limited, KCS.net AG, KCS.net AG West, KCS.net Deutschland GmbH, KCS.net Holding AG, KCS.net Osterreich GmbH, Kaper Communications Limited, Karma Communications Debtco Limited, Karma Communications Group Limited, Karma Communications Holdings Limited, Karmarama, Karmarama Comms Limited, Karmarama Limited, Knowledge Rules Inc., Knowledgent, Knowledgent Group LLC, Kogentix, Kogentix LLC, Kogentix Ltd, Kogentix Singapore Pte. Ltd, Kogentix Technologies Private Limited, Kolle Rebbe, Kolle Rebbe GmbH, Kream Comms Limited, Kunstmaan, Kunstmaan NV, Kurt Salmon, Kurt Salmon Canada LTD, Kurt Salmon UKI, Kurt Salmon UKI Ltd., Kurt Salmon US LLC, LEXTA, LINKBYNET, LabAnswer, LabAnswer Government, LemonXL Limited, Logistics Market Place Limited (UK), Loud & Clear Creative Pty Ltd, MAXIM Systems Inc., MCG US Holdings LLC, Mackevision CG Technology and Service (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Mackevision Corporation, Mackevision Japan Co. Ltd., Mackevision Korea Ltd, Mackevision Medien Design, Mackevision Medien Design GmbH, Mackevision Singapore Pte. Ltd., Mackevision UK Ltd, Maglan, Maglan Information Defense Technologies Research Ltd., Maihiro, Matter, Matter Llc, Maud Corp Pty Limited, Maxamine International, Media Audits Ltd., Media Hive, Mediasenz Pty Ltd., Meredith Specialty LLC, Meredith Xcelerated Marketing, Meredith Xcelerated Marketing Corporation, Meridian Informed Purchasing Ltd., Mindtribe, Mindtribe Product Engineering LLC, MobGen, MobGen Technology S.L, Moonrise NV, Mortgage Cadence, Mortgage Cadence an Accenture Company, Most Champion Ltd, Mudano, N3 LLC, NBS Marketing Inc., NYTEC, Nanjing Demeng Advertising Co. Ltd., Nashco Consulting, NaviSys Inc., NellArmonia, Neo Metrics Analytics S.L., Neo Metrics Chile, Neo Metrics Chile S.A., New Content, New Content Chile SpA, New Content Editora e Produtora Ltda., New Energy Aborda, New Energy Associates Ltd, New Energy Group, New Energy S.r.l., NewsPage, NewsPage (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, NewsPage China Ltd., NewsPage Pte Ltd, Nice Agency Limited, Northstream, Northstream AB, Northstream Holding AB, OCTO Technology, OPS Rules Management Consultants, Octagon Research Solutions Inc., Octo Technology LTDA, Octo Technology Pty Ltd, Octo Technology SA, Octo Technology SPRL, Octoman SAS, Odgaard ApS, Olikka, Openmind, Openminded, Operaciones Accenture S.A. de C.V., OpusLine, Orbium, Orbium Consulting Ltd, Orbium GmbH, Orbium Holding AG, Orbium Inc., Orbium International AG, Orbium International sp. z o.o., Orbium Licences AG, Orbium Limited, Orbium Pte. Ltd., Orbium Pty Ltd, Orbium Services sp. z o.o., Orbium Sarl, Origin Digital, PCO Innovation, PCO Innovation Canada Inc., PCO Innovation EURL, PIXO PUNCH Limited, PLM Systems S.r.l, POC Holdings, PRION GmbH, PT Accenture, PT Asta Catur Indra, PT Kogentix Teknologi Indonesia, Pach Invest SARL, Pach Invest SAS, PacificLink Group, PacificLink iMedia Ltd., Paja Finanssipalvelut Oy, Parker Fitzgerald Inc, Parker Fitzgerald Inc., Parker Fitzgerald International Limited, Parker Fitzgerald Limited, Parker Fitzgerald PTY Ltd, Parker Fitzgerald Services Limited, Parker Fitzgerald Solutions Limited, Partners Technology Mexico Holdings BV, Pecaso Ltd., Pegasus Production K/S, Perseroan Terbatas. Accenture, Phase One Consulting Group, Pillar Technology, Pollux, Pragsis Bidoop, Pragsis Bidoop UK Ltd, Pragsis Technologies S.L, PrimeQ, PrimeQ Australia Pty Ltd, PrimeQ Ltd, PrimeQ NZ Pty Ltd, Procurian Germany GmbH, Procurian Inc., Procurian International I LLC, Procurian International II LLC, Procurian LLC, Procurian Singapore Pte. Ltd., Procurian Switzerland GmbH, Procurian USA LLC, Proquire LLC, PureApps Ltd., Qi Jie Beijing Information Technologies Co Ltd, Radiant Services, Radiant Services LLC, Random Walk Computing Inc., Reactive Media Limited, Reactive Media Pty Ltd., Real Protect, Realworld OO Systems Ltd., Redcore, Redcore (Asia) Pte Ltd, Redcore (India) Private Limited (India), Redcore (New Zealand) Limited, Redcore Group Holdings Pty Ltd, Redcore Pty Ltd, Renacentis IT Services, Revolutionary Security, RiskControl, Rothco, Rothco Holdings Designated Activity Company, Rothco Unlimited Company, S.C. EnergyQuote S.r.l., S3 TV Technology Limited, S3 TV Technology Ltd., SEC Servizi, SEC Servizi S.p.A., SOPIA Corp., Sagacious Consultants, Sagacious Consultants LLC, Salt Solutions, Sanchez Capital Services Pvt Ltd, Schlumberger Business Consulting, Seabury Airline Planning Group, Seabury Aviation & Aerospace (UK) Limited, Seabury Aviation & Aerospace Asia (Hong Kong) Limited, Seabury Aviation Consulting LLC, Seabury Cargo Advisory B.V., Seabury Consulting, Seabury Corporate Advisors LLC, Seabury Human Capital LLC, Seabury Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Seabury Structured Finance LLC, Search Technologies BPO, Search Technologies BPO Inc., Search Technologies GmbH, Search Technologies International LLC, Search Technologies LATAM, Search Technologies LATAM S.A., Search Technologies LLC, Search Technologies Limited, Sente Partners LLC, Sentelis, Servicios Tecnicos de Programacion Accenture S.C., Shackleton, Shackleton Barcelona S.L., Shackleton Chile S.A., Shackleton Madrid S.L., Shackleton S.A., Shanghai Baiyue Advertising Co. Ltd., Shun Zhe Technology Development Co. Ltd., Silveo, Simian Pty Limited, SinnerSchrader, SinnerSchrader AG, SinnerSchrader Commerce GmbH, SinnerSchrader Content GmbH, SinnerSchrader Deutschland GmbH, SinnerSchrader Praha s.r.o., SinnerSchrader Swipe GmbH, Sistemes Consulting S.L., Solutions IQ, Solutions IQ LLC, SolutionsIQ, SolutionsIQ India Consulting Services Private Limited, Storm Digital, Storm Digital B.V., Structure Consulting Group, Structure Consulting Group LLC, Sutter Mills, Systor AG, TQuila Limited (UK), Tadata Creative Unlimited Company, Tara Insurance DAC, Tara Risk DAC, TargetST8, TargetST8 Consulting LLC, Tech - Avanade Portugal Unipessoal Lda, Tecnilogica Ecosistemas S.A., Tecnilogica Ltd., Tecnilogica, The Brand Learning Partners Limited, The Callisto Integration Corporation, The Monkeys, The Monkeys Pty Limited, The Myrtle Group, Total Logistics, Total Logistics Supply Chain Consultants Limited, Tquila, Trivadis AG, Troop Studios Pty Ltd, VanBerlo, Verax Solutions, Verax Solutions Corporation, Vertical Retail Consulting (Shanghai) Ltd., Vertical Retail Consulting Hong Kong, Vertical Retail Consulting Hong Kong Ltd., Vertical Retail Consulting Ltd., Vivere Brasil Servicos e Solucoes SA, Vivere Brasil Solucoes De Credito Ltda., Wabion GmbH, Weblinc Pty Ltd, Wire Stone, Wire Stone LLC, Wire Stone Sarl, Wolox, Workforce Insight, Yesler, Zag, Zenta, Zenta Global Philippines, Zenta Global Philippines Inc., Zenta Mortgage Services LLC, Zenta Recoveries Inc, Zenta US Holdings Inc., Zielpuls, Zielpuls (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Zielpuls GmbH, avVenta, designaffairs, designaffairs Business Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., designaffairs GmbH, designaffairs group China Co. Ltd., dgroup, i4C Analytics, iDefense, and solid-serVision.com GmbH. Rayonier Advanced Materials, Inc. engages in the production and sale of cellulose products, which is a natural polymer commonly used in the production of cell phone and computer screens, filters, and pharmaceuticals. It operates through the following segments: High Purity Cellulose, Forest Products, Paperboard, Pulp and Newsprint, and Corporate. The High Purity Cellulose segment manufacture and market high purity cellulose, which is sold as either cellulose specialties or commodity products in U.S., Canda, and France. The Forest Products segment manufacture and market construction-grade lumber in North America through seven sawmills located in Canada. The Paperboard segment comprises paperboard products. The Pulp and Newsprint segment involves in the production of pulp and newsprint in Canada. The Corporate segment consists senior management, accounting, information systems, human resources, treasury, tax, and legal administrative functions that provide support services to the operating business units. The company was founded in 1926 and is headquartered in Jacksonville, FL. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of CVS Health: @Credentials Inc., ACS ACQCO CORP., ADMINCO Inc., AE Fourteen Incorporated, AHP Holdings Inc., AMC - Tennessee LLC, APS Acquisition LLC, ASCO HealthCare LLC, ASI Wings LLC, AUSHC Holdings Inc., Accendo Insurance Company, Accordant Health Services L.L.C., Active Health Management Inc., Administrative Enterprises Inc., AdvancePCS SpecialtyRx LLC, AdvanceRx.com L.L.C., Advanced Care Scripts Inc., Aetna, Aetna (Beijing) Enterprise Management Services Co. Ltd., Aetna (Shanghai) Enterprise Services Co. Ltd., Aetna ACO Holdings Inc., Aetna Asset Advisors LLC, Aetna Behavioral Health LLC, Aetna Better Health Inc., Aetna Better Health Inc., Aetna Better Health of California Inc., Aetna Better Health of Florida Inc., Aetna Better Health of Kansas Inc., Aetna Better Health of Michigan Inc., Aetna Better Health of Missouri LLC, Aetna Better Health of Nevada Inc., Aetna Better Health of North Carolina Inc., Aetna Better Health of Oklahoma Inc., Aetna Better Health of Texas Inc., Aetna Better Health of Washington Inc., Aetna Capital Management LLC, Aetna Card Solutions LLC, Aetna Corporate Services LLC, Aetna Dental Inc., Aetna Dental of California Inc., Aetna Financial Holdings LLC, Aetna Florida Inc., Aetna Global Benefits (Asia Pacific) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits (Bahamas) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits (Bermuda) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits (Europe) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits (Middle East) LLC, Aetna Global Benefits (Singapore) PTE. LTD., Aetna Global Benefits (UK) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits Limited (DIFC UAE), Aetna Global Holdings Limited, Aetna Health Holdings LLC, Aetna Health Inc., Aetna Health Insurance (Thailand) Public Company Limited, Aetna Health Insurance Company, Aetna Health Insurance Company of Europe DAC, Aetna Health Management LLC, Aetna Health and Life Insurance Company, Aetna Health of California Inc., Aetna Health of Iowa Inc., Aetna Health of Michigan Inc., Aetna Health of Ohio Inc., Aetna Health of Utah Inc., Aetna HealthAssurance Pennsylvania Inc., Aetna Holdco (UK) Limited, Aetna Holdings (Thailand) Limited, Aetna Inc., Aetna Insurance (Hong Kong) Limite, Aetna Insurance (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Aetna Insurance Company Limited, Aetna Integrated Informatics Inc., Aetna International Inc., Aetna Ireland Inc., Aetna Korea Ltd., Aetna Life & Casualty (Bermuda) Ltd., Aetna Life Assignment Company, Aetna Life Insurance Company, Aetna Medicaid Administrators LLC, Aetna Multi-Strategy 1099 Fund LLC, Aetna Network Services LLC, Aetna Partners Diversified Fund LLC, Aetna Pharmacy Management Services LLC, Aetna Resources LLC, Aetna Risk Assurance Company of Connecticut Inc., Aetna Rx Home Delivery LLC, Aetna Services (Thailand) Limited, Aetna Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Aetna Student Health Agency Inc., Aetna Ventures LLC, Aetna Workers Comp Access LLC, Alabama CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Alaska CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Allina Health and Aetna Insurance Company, Allina Health and Aetna Insurance Holding Company LLC, American Continental Insurance Company, American Drug Stores Delaware L.L.C., American Health Holding Inc., Arbor Drugs, Arizona CVS Stores L.L.C., Arkansas CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Badger Acquisition LLC, Badger Acquisition of Kentucky LLC, Badger Acquisition of Minnesota LLC, Badger Acquisition of Ohio LLC, Banner Health and Aetna Health Insurance Company, Banner Health and Aetna Health Insurance Holding Company LLC, Banner Health and Aetna Health Plan Inc., Beauty Holdings L.L.C., Best Care LTC Acquisition Company LLC, Busse CVS L.L.C., CCI Foreign S.a R.L. (R.C.S. Luxembourg), CCRx Holdings LLC, CCRx of North Carolina LLC, CHP Acquisition LLC, CP Acquisition LLC, CVS 2948 Henderson L.L.C., CVS 3268 Gilbert L.L.C., CVS 3745 Peoria L.L.C., CVS AL Distribution L.L.C., CVS AOC Corporation, CVS AOC Services L.L.C., CVS Albany L.L.C., CVS Bellmore Avenue L.L.C., CVS Care Concierge LLC, CVS Caremark Advanced Technology Pharmacy L.L.C., CVS Caremark Indemnity Ltd., CVS Caremark Part D Services L.L.C., CVS Caremark TN SUTA LLC, CVS Foreign Inc., CVS Gilbert 3272 L.L.C., CVS Health Solutions LLC, CVS Indiana L.L.C., CVS International L.L.C., CVS Kidney Care Advanced Technologies LLC, CVS Kidney Care Health Services LLC, CVS Kidney Care Home Dialysis LLC, CVS Kidney Care LLC, CVS Manchester NH L.L.C., CVS Media Exchange LLC, CVS Michigan L.L.C., CVS Orlando FL Distribution L.L.C., CVS PA Distribution L.L.C., CVS PR Center Inc., CVS Pharmacy Inc., CVS RS Arizona L.L.C., CVS Rx Services Inc., CVS SC Distribution L.L.C., CVS State Capital L.L.C., CVS TN Distribution L.L.C., CVS Transportation L.L.C., CVS Vero FL Distribution L.L.C., Campos Medical Pharmacy LLC, Canal Place LLC, Care Pharmaceutical Services LP, CareCenter Pharmacy L.L.C., Carefree Insurance Services Inc., Caremark Arizona Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Arizona Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark California Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Florida Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Florida Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Hawaii Mail Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Hawaii Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark IPA L.L.C., Caremark Illinois Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Illinois Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Irving Resource Center LLC, Caremark Kansas Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark L.L.C., Caremark Logistics LLC, Caremark Louisiana Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Maryland Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Massachusetts Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Michigan Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Minnesota Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark New Jersey Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark North Carolina Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Ohio Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Pennsylvania Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark PhC L.L.C., Caremark Puerto Rico L.L.C., Caremark Puerto Rico Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Redlands Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Repack LLC, Caremark Rx L.L.C., Caremark Tennessee Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Texas Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Texas Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Ulysses Holding Corp., Caremark Washington Specialty Pharmacy LLC, CaremarkPCS Alabama Mail Pharmacy LLC, CaremarkPCS Health L.L.C., CaremarkPCS L.L.C., Central Rx Services LLC, Claims Administration Corp., Cofinity Inc., Compscript LLC, Connecticut CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Continental Life Insurance Company of Brentwood Tennessee, Continuing Care Rx LLC, Coram Alternate Site Services Inc., Coram Clinical Trials Inc., Coram Healthcare Corporation of Alabama, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Florida, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Greater D.C., Coram Healthcare Corporation of Greater New York, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Indiana, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Massachusetts, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Mississippi, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Nevada, Coram Healthcare Corporation of North Texas, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Northern California, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Southern California, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Southern Florida, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Utah, Coram LLC, Coram Rx LLC, Coram Specialty Infusion, Coram Specialty Infusion Services L.L.C., Coventry Consumer Advantage Inc., Coventry Health Care National Accounts Inc., Coventry Health Care National Network Inc., Coventry Health Care Workers Compensation Inc., Coventry Health Care of Illinois Inc., Coventry Health Care of Kansas Inc., Coventry Health Care of Missouri Inc., Coventry Health Care of Nebraska Inc., Coventry Health Care of Virginia Inc., Coventry Health Care of West Virginia Inc., Coventry Health Plan of Florida Inc., Coventry Health and Life Insurance Company, Coventry HealthCare Management Corporation, Coventry Prescription Management Services Inc., Coventry Rehabilitation Services Inc., Coventry Transplant Network Inc., D & R Pharmaceutical Services LLC, D.A.W. LLC, Delaware CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Delaware Physicians Care Incorporated, Digital eHealth LLC, District of Columbia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., E.T.B. 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Following his testimony Tuesday, Jason Van Dyke looked as relaxed in the courtroom as he has at any point during the trial. He smiled as he talked with family members and friends in the gallery before the proceedings started Wednesday and even laughed quietly with his wife, Tiffany, at one point. Sources said he was happy and confident with his performance on the witness stand, believing he showed the jury a more human side instead of just a name in the headlines. NORRISTOWN A Limerick man is awaiting his fate from a judge and faces a psychosexual evaluation after he admitted to disseminating child pornography on his home computer equipment. John Paul Roetling, 39, of the first block of Lightcap Road, pleaded guilty in Montgomery County Court to two felony counts of sexual abuse of children disseminating child pornography in connection with incidents that occurred between December 2016 and February 2017. Judge Risa Vetri Ferman deferred sentencing so that court officials can complete a background investigation report about Roetling, including drug, alcohol, mental health and psychosexual evaluations. Roetling, who remains free on bail pending sentencing, faces a possible maximum sentence of seven to 14 years in prison on the charges. However, state sentencing guidelines could allow for a lesser sentence. Roetling also faces an evaluation by the Pennsylvania Sexual Offenders Assessment Board, which will determine if he meets criteria to be classified as a sexually violent predator. Those classified as predators face more stringent restrictions while on parole or probation, including mandatory counseling and community notification about their living arrangements. Regardless of the state boards findings, Roetling will face a mandatory requirement to report his address to state police for 25 years. An investigation of Roetling began on Dec. 6, 2016, when a detective conducting online Internet investigations to identify those possessing and sharing child pornography located a computer, later linked to Roetling, which was sharing files of child pornography via a file sharing network. A detective was able to make a direct connection to the computer and initiated a download of materials from the suspect computer, according to the criminal complaint filed by Abington Detective Rick Beaghley, who is a special county detective assigned to investigate Internet crimes against children. Between Dec. 6, 2016, and Jan. 17, 2017, detectives downloaded 11 video files that depicted female children under the age of 18 engaged in sexual acts or poses. Some of the children were as young as 7, court documents indicate. Investigators also uncovered 283 image files of multiple girls, ages 7 to 15, in various stages of nudity or engaged in sexual acts or poses, according to the criminal complaint. Investigators obtained a warrant to conduct a search of Roetlings home on Feb. 23, 2017. When detectives asked Roetling if he knew any reason why they would be at his residence he allegedly replied, Yes, because I have been downloading things that I should not be, according to the arrest affidavit. John further stated that he has been downloading child pornography for about the last four to five years, Beaghley alleged, adding Roetling admitted to installing file sharing software on his computer which was capable of downloading child pornography, sharing files and pirating some. He admitted that he masturbated to the child pornography files and that he was the person responsible for the files I had downloaded from his residence. Roetling stated that he tried to delete all of his child pornography files as he did not want to be a monster and was ashamed of himself, Beaghley alleged. Authorities seized computer equipment from Roetlings bedroom and a forensic examination uncovered numerous images of child erotica, according to the criminal complaint. But on Wednesday, many people on the trail near Loyola Park said they were on high alert following warnings from authorities that a gunman still at large had fatally shot two men in the head one a 73-year-old man walking his dogs and the other a 24-year-old man walking on the lakefront bike path. The shootings happened blocks from each other, within about 36 hours. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. On Tuesday, Trump defended Kavanaugh, calling him a high-quality person and a top intellect. He told reporters at the White House that he hoped McConnell could bring the confirmation vote to the Senate floor this week, but it will be dependent on what comes back from the FBI. They're working very hard. And let's see what happens. ALBANY Federal prosecutors are seeking a sentence of 12 to 18 months in prison for the energy company executive who arranged a "low-show job" for the wife of former gubernatorial aide Joseph Percoco. Peter Galbraith Kelly, formerly an executive with Competitive Power Ventures, pleaded guilty in May to defrauding the company by setting up the job for Lisa Toscano-Percoco, the wife of Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo's former executive deputy secretary. Kelly is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 16. At Percoco's trial last winter, a jury found that prosecutors with the Manhattan U.S. Attorney's office had proved that Kelly funneled the cash to the Percoco's household in an attempt to secure official favors for CPV, which is developing a controversial natural gas-fired power plant on Orange County. Percoco's wife, a former schoolteacher, was ostensibly hired for a CPV education initiative. She was paid $285,000 over the course of three years through a Connecticut-based LLC an arrangement designed to camouflage the payments, according to trial testimony. Consultant Todd Howe, like Percoco a longtime Cuomo confidant, served as the go-between for the hiring. Howe is awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to multiple felonies in September 2016. He was a key prosecution witness at Percoco's trial, which ended with the jury undecided on the charges against Kelly. Rather than face a second trial, he pleaded guilty two months later. Prosecutors introduced extensive email communications among the three men, including some in which Howe and Percoco referred to Kelly as "the Fat Man." Percoco was sentenced last month to six years in federal prison. While the federal Probation Department recommended a four-month sentence for Kelly, prosecutors argue that what's known as a "guidelines" sentence for Kelly was "necessary to send a message, not just to Albany, but to the boardrooms of any company who might consider engaging in similar criminal behavior." Federal sentencing guidelines, which judges are not compelled to follow, take into account factors such as a defendant's criminal history, or lack thereof, and whether they accepted responsibility by pleading guilty or cooperating with an investigation. The court filing, submitted on Monday, notes that all parties agree that the amount defrauded from CPV is $190,000 the $285,000 paid to Lisa Toscano-Percoco minus $95,000, the estimated actual value of the consulting work she provided. Prosecutors noted that Kelly wants the court to require that Howe pay half the restitution a request the government wants the judge to reject. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. "Kelly caused Ms. Percoco to be hired by CPV as a result of his lies, Kelly approved her pay rate, and through further lies and concealment, Kelly ensured that she was continually paid for over three years," prosecutors wrote. "He should therefore be held accountable for the entire amount of loss suffered by CPV." Prosecutors alluded to U.S. District Judge Valerie Caproni's comments at Percoco's sentencing to the effect that the crimes at issue in the case tend to make New Yorkers question whether any government action is without the taint of corruption. "As the court noted at Percoco's sentencing, and as is clear in the many public letters filed in this case, many in the Orange County community now distrust the process surrounding approval of their local CPV plant, even though the case involved no allegations of corruption of the plant's governmental approval process," prosecutors wrote. Percoco's trial involved the aide's participation in two schemes: the CPV effort as well as similar pay-to-play activity by executives at COR Development of Syracuse. This fall will bring many more sentencings for officials and businessmen convicted in the Percoco trial and the subsequent trial over bid-rigging on projects overseen by Albany-based SUNY Polytechnic Institute. They include: New York Brightness flickers fitfully in the bleak, beautiful landscape of "Girl From the North Country," a rich and strange marriage of the talents of the Irish playwright Conor McPherson and the American songwriter Bob Dylan. The setting for this haunting musical melodrama of unmoored lives is, after all, a premature winter. In Minnesota. During the Great Depression. So when something like joy or hope or love promises to light up the night in this ravishing production, which opened Monday night at the Public Theater, it doesn't stand much chance against the prevailing darkness. This is a story of an age of privation and separation, in which homes are lost and families riven. Yet when the people onstage sing, huddled together before old-time microphones as if they were campfires, they seem to conjure light and warmth out of the cold, cold night that surrounds them. These fleeting moments register with the glow of retinal afterimages, as if they were happening behind closed eyes. As for the sweet, sorrowful voices, backed by fiddles and piano, they seem to come, beseechingly, from half-remembered family histories you might have been told by your grandparents. If you're a hard-core Dylan fan, you've heard these songs before. But, for me at least, they've never sounded quite so heartbreakingly personal and universal at the same time. As arranged and orchestrated by the British composer Simon Hale in collaboration with McPherson, the show's director as well as its writer the songs exist in self-sufficient independence of their creator's gravelly, much-imitated voice. You hear them ripening into new fullness. Those who scoffed when Dylan received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016 may find they have to think again. "Girl From the North Country" debuted at London's National Theater in the summer of 2017, eight months after the prize had been announced. Five years earlier, McPherson was approached by representatives of Dylan about using the songwriter's catalog as the basis for a musical. It seemed like a bizarre conjunction, that of a Gaelic dramatist and an American balladeer. But in plays like "Shining City" and "The Night Alive," McPherson has shown a mystical appreciation of music as an expression of the numinous in life. That respect for the ineffable has been translated into the most imaginative and inspired use to date of a popular composer's songbook in this blighted era of the jukebox musical. In unfolding his portrait of the desperate tenants of a boardinghouse in Duluth, Minn. (Dylan's birthplace), in late 1934, McPherson never uses songs as a substitute for or extension of dialogue, a la "Mamma Mia!" Only occasionally does a number like the 1966 classic "I Want You" seem to echo directly the thoughts of the characters singing it. Instead, nearly every ensemble member becomes part of a choir, with soloists, that is as persuasive a latter-day equivalent of the Greek chorus as we're ever likely to see. What's created, through songs written by Dylan over half a century, is a climate of feeling, as pervasive and evasive as fog. It's an atmosphere of despair with lyrics about lost chances, lost love and enduring loneliness that finds grace in the communion of voices coming together. Certainly, the script is as forbiddingly fatalistic as that of a Greek tragedy. At its center is Nick Laine (Stephen Bogardus), who rents out rooms in his ramshackle house in the hope of forestalling foreclosure. His family includes an alcoholic young son, Gene (Colton Ryan), who hopes to be a writer, and an adopted daughter, Marianne (Kimber Sprawl), who is pregnant, though how or by whom no one seems to know. Nick's wife, Elizabeth (Mare Winningham), is there and not there, suffering from a dementia that has turned her into a dependent, unruly child with a sailor's mouth. So Nick seeks comfort in the arms of a boarder, Mrs. Neilsen (Jeannette Bayardelle), who expects to come into some money. Most everybody here has such expectations; nobody really believes in them. Images of lost and murdered children haunt the narrative, specters of snuffed lives and broken hopes. Also living on the premises are the Burkes the blustery, big-talking father (Marc Kudisch) and the louche mother (Luba Mason) of Elias (Todd Almond), a grown man with a toddler's mind. The newest arrivals are a self-described man of God, Rev. Marlowe (David Pittu), and an ex-convict and boxer, Joe Scott (Sydney James Harcourt). The visitors include Mr. Perry (Tom Nelis), a septuagenarian widower who is courting Marianne; Gene's sometime girl, Kate Draper (Caitlin Houlahan); and the family physician, Dr. Walker (Robert Joy). The doc is a cracker-barrel philosopher and occasional omniscient narrator in the folksy tradition of the Stage Manager of Thornton Wilder's "Our Town." He is also addicted to morphine. These elements might have come from a build-your-own-vintage-American-social-realist drama assembly kit. I regard the 47-year-old McPherson as perhaps the finest English-language playwright of his generation. But last year, when I saw "Girl" on its opening night in London, with a British ensemble straining for Americanness, the script often felt labored and imitative. With a uniformly excellent American cast that wears its roles like confining and prickly skins, and on a smaller stage, "Girl" feels far more convincingly of a piece. The work of the same team of designers Rae Smith (set and costumes), Mark Henderson (lighting) and Simon Baker (sound) comes together here with the self-containment of a poem. Thornton Wilder's "Our Town," the classic play about everyday folks doing everyday things, turns 80 years old this year. Those folks are the Gibbs and the Webb families, residents of Grover's Corners, New Hampshire. Audiences see them do chores and share meals, marry off their young and bury their dead. Along the way, the three-act play addresses some big lessons about living. Seldom does it fail to pack an emotional wallop. For actress Eileen Schuyler, "Our Town" has been a touchstone throughout a long and distinguished career. She's been a cast member when two different local companies mounted the classic drama and now she's directing it for the Theatre Institute at Sage. The new production opened Wednesday and runs through Sunday, Oct. 14. "It means something different to me each time," says Schuyler. "Now, looking at it from the other side of the stage, I can't believe how beautiful it is." There was another time in her life, a pivotal moment in fact, when the simple yet profound script of "Our Town" provided both solace and inspiration. Schuyler had the Stage Manager's final monologue read at her husband's funeral three years ago. Functioning throughout the play as a kind of narrator and wise elder, Wilder's Stage Manger sums things up as follows: "Now there are some things we all know but we don't take'm out and look at'm very often. We all know that something is eternal. And it ain't houses and it ain't names and it ain't earth, and it ain't even the stars. Everybody knows in their bones that something is eternal, and that something has to do with human beings. All the greatest people ever lived have been telling us that for 5,000 years and yet you'd be surprised how people are always losing hold of it. There's something way down deep that's eternal about every human being." Schuyler is effusive in her praise for the writing, saying, "It's so gorgeous you just want to pass out from hearing it." But like the characters in the show, caught up with the business of living rather than any philosophy of living, most of Schuyler's attention these days is in getting the show up and running. She's working with a cast of 15 while the original Broadway production featured more than 50 actors. That means there's a considerable number of cast members doubling up on roles. Also, because Wilder's script demands that the set be bare-bones just a few boxes, some chairs and a ladder -- the stage blocking has to be detailed and exact, with actors miming a range of tasks. "There are a lot of little ordinary details, small things like snapping green beans, feeding chickens, and delivering newspapers," says Schuyler. "We have to figure out what's it like to guide a horse or hold a milk bottle and mime those things in a way that's not distracting but makes the audience believe." The role of the Stage Manager is being played by David Baecker, a Sage faculty member who chairs the department of arts and letters. "We needed someone with life experience," explains Schuyler about casting the man who is essentially her boss, since Baecker also heads the Theatre Institute. "He's got that warmth, an easygoing man with a natural affable approachability, who's comfortable in his own skin." The rest of the performers are in their late teens and early 20s. Schuyler says that while technologies are vastly different, interpersonal relationships haven't changed all that much since the early 20th century, when the play is set. The challenge to the actors is finding the more understated aspects of the characters' emotional journeys. It was a time when people weren't sharing at length everything on their minds and in their hearts. "With this generation, they're all budding actors and the language has been very approachable for them. The parents' relationship, the scolding father, the siblings not getting along -- all that stuff is very fresh and feels like now," says Schuyler. "But the subtle shifts take rehearsal and an adult to navigate." An example is the scene between George and Emily at the soda foundation, which Schuyler describes as iconic. The teens have known each other all their lives and Emily is thrilled that George finally asked her out on a date. But her heart sinks when he shares that he may leave Grover's Corners for a few years of college. That emotion has to be seen and felt, because the script doesn't spell it out in dialogue. "They're New England women and they don't say much of what they're feeling, but that doesn't mean they're not feeling," says Schuyler. "The girls didn't know anything about sex, they're virgins and the wedding night is frightening to them. And one of the mothers says, 'I hope some of her girlfriends have told her a thing or two because I couldn't bring myself to do it.'" More Information If you go "Our Town" When: Performances continue 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and run through Sunday, Oct. 14. Where: Schacht Fine Arts Center Theater, 5 Division St., Troy Tickets: $8-$15. Call 518-244-2248 or visit: theatre.sage.edu See More Collapse As to the character's sundry worries and anxieties, that's also part of the granular stuff of living that constitutes the play. Schuyler points to a choice line from Doc Gibbs, the town's physician: "Everybody has a right to their own troubles." Before plunging into the intensive rehearsal period, Schuyler came across an interview with Wilder that ran in Time magazine just prior to the debut of "Our Town." "He said that for a time he lived in Rome with archaeologists. They look at things through the microscope and the telescope. They look at the very distant through the lens of the very small," says Schuyler. "And he applied that to this play. It's the life of the village against the life of the stars. Things seem ordinary and then, all of sudden, you're in big territory. It sneaks up on you." Joseph Dalton is a freelance writer based in Troy. Accra, Ghana Melania Trump opened her first big solo international trip as U.S. first lady on Tuesday with a wave, a smile and a baby in her arms, aiming to promote child welfare during a five-day tour of Africa. She arrived in Ghana from Washington and quickly made her way to the Greater Accra Regional Hospital. The first lady saw how babies are weighed. She also watched a nurse demonstrate how vitamins are administered to babies by mouth and toured the neonatal intensive care unit. Mrs. Trump also cradled an infant and declared the baby a "beautiful boy" as she handed him back to his mother. Mothers at the hospital for her visit received gifts of teddy bears nestled in white baby blankets, personally handed out by the first lady, according to her spokeswoman, Stephanie Grisham. The items carried the logo of "Be Best," the child well-being initiative Mrs. Trump launched. With the Africa visit, the first lady aims to take "Be Best" and its focus on opioid abuse and online behavior to an international audience. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. The first lady also had a private tea with her Ghanaian counterpart, Rebecca Akufo-Addo. They exchanged gifts: a Chippendale silver tray embossed with an image of the White House inside a leather case signed by "First Lady Melania Trump" for Akufo-Addo, and Kente cloth and artifacts for Mrs. Trump, according to Grisham. The first ladies met privately for about a half-hour at Jubilee House, Ghana's presidential palace. The two first met last week in New York at a reception on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly, where Mrs. Trump spoke about her upcoming trip. The first lady also plans to visit Malawi, Kenya and Egypt. DERBY - A Superior Court jury has awarded a Shelton man $1.6 million for injuries he suffered when he was injured at a Sears warehouse in 2014. The six-member jury deliberated a little more than an hour on Friday before finding that Sears was responsible for the injuries sustained by Kevin Reid. My client's life has been so impacted by his injury, and therefore he is very grateful for this verdict, said Reids lawyer, George Ganim Jr. We want to thank our jury for their careful and thoughtful deliberations. Representatives of Sears did not return calls for comment. Reid was an independent contractor who delivered appliances for Sears, according to the lawsuit. On May 22, 2014 at about 6:30 a.m., he arrived at the Sears warehouse in Albany, N.Y. to pick up the merchandise he was scheduled to deliver that day. While in the Sears warehouse Reid was struck from behind by a fork lift operated by Sears employee Clint Whit, the suit states. Whit was improperly operating the fork lift with his vision obstructed by a refrigerator he was carrying on the forklift. The refrigerator landed on Reids ankle, causing serious injury. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. As a result, the suit states Reid underwent two failed surgeries to his left ankle and is left with a permanent injury. During the trial Sears operation manager for the warehouse, Timothy Mosher, testified Whit was improperly operating the forklift in violation of safety rules. Mosher said Whit should have been driving the clamp truck backward so that he could safely see where he was going at the time. The trial included the testimony of doctor Allen Ferrucci of Connecticut Orthopedic Specialists who said Reid suffered a permanent injury to his left ankle and thus would not be able to return to his job delivering appliances. In the letter to Tingley, dated May 18, Wyllie said he had been under the honest, but mistaken, belief that he was entitled to the retirement bonus pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement in place at the time, as well as personal observation of the districts past course of conduct in which administrators typically received similar retirement benefits as that of teachers. ALBANY County elections officials dont want to move the Board of Elections to the South End because its a bad, dangerous neighborhood, according to Republican Commissioner Rachel Bledi. Bledi said Wednesday that she and Democratic Elections Commissioner Matthew Clyne are opposed to moving their offices to the soon-to-be-vacant Department of Motor Vehicles site on South Pearl Street because of safety concerns. The neighborhood, quite frankly, is not safe, Bledi said. I do understand (Executive Daniel) McCoys desire to relocate us to a more affordable option, but it also has to come with proper security measures. McCoy took offense to Bledi's remarks about the South End, a neighborhood he grew up in. "If it's unsafe for them, maybe it's unsafe for everyone else," McCoy said. "I think it's ludicrous. Are they better than the people who live down there? Are their workers different than firefighters, police officers, teachers?" To save the county more than $350,000 annually, McCoy wants to shift the Board of Elections currently located at 32 North Russell Road, just off Central Avenue to 224-260 S. Pearl St., which the county owns and has leased to the state DMV for several years. Last month, McCoy confirmed to the Times Union that the state motor vehicles office was looking to relocate. Its lease is up at the end of October. There are no definitive plans to move the county elections office to the South Pearl Street site, and theyre considering all options including relocating the county probation office, currently located across from the Times Union Center. McCoy says that space has attracted lucrative offers from developers who want to turn it into apartments. McCoy also wants to enhance the South End. Any county office that may locate to the DMV building could move elsewhere if a more lucrative option say, a grocery store is proposed for the site, he said. Bledi said she and Clyne are both opposed to the move, and while safety is their top concern, they also dont think the space is functional for their needs. We did a tour of the facility, and it was very clear right off the bat it wasnt going to work, Bledi said. Its not what were looking for, and not what we need. Clyne did not return requests for comment. The site shares a parking lot with the county Health and Mental Health buildings, is across the street from Giffen Memorial Elementary School, diagonal from the Albany Fire Department and around the corner from Albany Polices South Station. It also is directly across from the Capital City Rescue Mission, and close to several drug rehabilitation and social service facilities. Bledi said the elections office has about 1,200 people who come to their office throughout the year for evening training as poll inspectors, most of them older retirees. Theyre not comfortable coming down for training in a neighborhood that has higher crime rates," she said. "Maybe it is a better location for the probation department. That is the reality that exists in the city of Albany. The city is controlled by the Democratic Party its on them to address these issues. City officials, however, disputed Bledi's contention that the Board of Elections' current location is safer than the South End site. Upper Washington Avenue has had 224 "Part 1 crimes" which include homicides, robberies, larcenies and assaults so far this year, while the Mansion District has had 115, Albany Police crime statistics show. "The statistics bear something out that's different," said Mayor Kathy Sheehan, who noted that the state has never expressed concern to her about crime near the DMV office: "I would be surprised if the BOE would have a different experience." Sheehan pointed out that with groceries stores and other retail outlets clustered around the elections board's current headquarters, there are far more police calls. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Common Council member Derek Johnson, who represents the South End, said Bledi's comments were a smack in the face. If you keep making decisions that arent in the betterment of the community, youre going to reap what you sow, Johnson said. Its very insensitive (for public officials) to make comments on communities that they arent in touch with. The Board of Elections is currently the only county department that occupies leased space. More for you Albany DMV moving to Central Avenue in 2019 McCoy said the county could have purchased the North Russell Road property years ago, but there wasnt support. The elections board has been there since 2005, and the building was sold in 2007 for $700,000. The county Legislature in 2014 renewed its lease at 32 North Russell at $25,000 per month through April 2019. The building owner, Robert Baron of 14 Petra LLC, wasnt looking to sell. At the time, Bledi had said none of McCoys alternatives were viable, and suggested the price of leasing the space was comparable to other buildings in the area. On Wednesday, Bledi said she recognizes the exorbitant cost of rent and suggested vacant buildings in Albany's warehouse district could be considered. The biggest mistake they ever made was not purchasing the building when it was available several years ago, Bledi said. The state Office of General Services plans to move the DMV from the South End to 855 Central Ave. about a block away from the current home of the Board of Elections. ALBANY - At 2:18 p.m. on Wednesday, a faint repetitive alert sound echoed across Empire State Plaza, emanating from mobile phones clutched in palms or stuck in pockets and purses. For a few seconds, screens flashed with the message: "Presidential Alert THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed." Those phones were just a few of the 225 million electronic devices across the country that received a test of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)'s wireless emergency alert system Wednesday. The national disaster response agency can send out alerts in cases of extreme weather and national emergencies, similar to Amber Alerts or flood warnings. State employee Kathy Rhodes at Empire State Plaza Wednesday said she pays attention to local alerts and thinks a national version is helpful as long as it doesn't get political. "As long as it's for public safety, I think it's a good thing," Rhodes said. "If I get something that (reeks) of political sentiment, I'm going to block it. If it's anything political, that is an invasion of privacy. If it's for a safety concern or weather, I would say that's good." While users can opt out of Amber Alerts, they can't opt out of presidential alerts, which are issued at the direction of the White House and activated by FEMA. A 2006 law outlines that the administration can only send alerts for national emergencies or if the public is in peril, not for personal messages from the president. Three New Yorkers filed a lawsuit last week in federal court arguing that the alerts infringed upon their right to privacy. The plaintiffs said that the system would turn alerts into "government loudspeakers" that would allow Trump or others to disseminate propaganda. Davi Patel, a lawyer from New York City who was visiting Albany Wednesday, said she was concerned about how the alerts could be used by the administration. "Everything is skewed by the current administration and where they're going to go with it. Normally I wouldn't be so disturbed, but given everything that's happening now, I think it's disturbing as to what they think public interest is," Patel said. "I don't want a message that says Kavanaugh is innocent and I think eventually it gets there." Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. State employee Ed Hyde didn't see a problem as long as it was used for emergencies and added he wished there had been a similar alert system on 9/11. "It could be helpful," he said. "If you have an eye out for an Amber Alert, it could save a life." But for Wednesday's test on a cloudy afternoon in downtown Albany, no one seemed to take notice. A crowd who had spilled out of a Swan Street building for a fire drill 10 minutes earlier were already filing back into their offices. What was it like to get around the Capital Region before the Northway? Or even before the invention of the automobile? A search through our archives revealed some historical photos of transportation in the Capital Region: From train stations and luxury train cars to horse-drawn carriages. LATHAM State Police investigators on Tuesday discovered the body of Michaela MacVilla, the St. Johnsville woman who vanished from her job at a Stewart's Shop eight days earlier. State Police and the Fulton County District Attorney held a news conference at Troop G headquarters in Latham on Wednesday afternoon. Troopers say a resident discovered the body a day earlier on his Oppenheim, Fulton County, property in heavy brush. An autopsy is under way. New York State Police State Police Capt. Richard O'Brien, who commands Troop G's Bureau of Criminal Investigation, described the location as a wooded area and indicated that the man who discovered the remains was trying to help with the search. O'Brien declined to say whether MacVilla was still wearing the clothes she was seen in when she left the store. He also declined to answer questions about what texts or calls were made from her phone after she ended her shift. "Our investigation has already transitioned from a missing person (case) to a criminal investigation," O'Brien said. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. MacVilla, 21, was last seen leaving the Stewart's Shop on West Main Street in St. Johnsville, Montgomery County, at about 12:10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 25, State Police have said. She was reported missing by her family later that day. Oppenheim is north of St. Johnsville. St. Johnsville Police Chief Diana Callen, Fulton County District Attorney Chad Brown and Bureau of Criminal Investigations Major Crimes Unit senior investigator Michael Cuomo attended the Tuesday press conference. HUNTER, N.Y. Ezra Kennedy had been hiking with his cousins and friends when he ventured up to a ledge between the tiers of Kaaterskill Falls. The 17-year-old was trying to get a photo, said his mother, Donna Kennedy. I think he just went out a little too far and it didnt appear to be slippery, Kennedy of Westfield, New Jersey said. But it was. Ezra fell to his death, one of two visitors who lost their lives at the waterfall in 2016. Nor were they alone: There have been at least eight fatal accidents here since 1992. Six of them in the past decade. The soaring popularity of this oasis in the Catskill Mountains, lifted by internet fame, has accelerated the problem. In response, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has implemented new safety features over the past four years. According to Rob Dawson, a state forest ranger, the last four people who died at Kaaterskill Falls were either taking or posing for pictures. Forest rangers have struggled to keep the growing crowds safe. They estimate the falls see 100,000 visitors a year, a tenfold increase from a quarter-century ago. Dawson said he believed social media was responsible. Just talking to people who come up here, they say, Yeah, we saw this on the internet were trying to find it,' Dawson said. The unfortunate thing is, with those pictures, theres nothing informing people that you could get seriously hurt here, too. And the site is far from the only one under such pressures, as young explorers guided by their phones visit spots that were once local secrets. On a recent Sunday, dozens of cars were parked along the narrow edge of Route 23A in the Catskills, a mountain road that courses along several swimming holes. Residents say they are worried about safety and parking. Some favorite swimming holes on private land have been closed, and once pristine sites are strewn with trash. At Breakneck Ridge, a steep hiking trail on the Hudson River about 50 miles north of Manhattan, a surge in visitors has necessitated a multimillion-dollar response. Breakneck is a magnet for new hikers, said Hank Osborn, senior program coordinator for the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, which maintains the route and staffs the trailhead on weekends. Its one of the places that is getting a lot of attention from hikers who are seeking out a destination from New York City. Its what theyre learning about online and through social media. The planned projects for Breakneck Ridge include a new train platform and a safer path along Route 9D near the trailhead. Construction is aimed to begin in 2019. Kaaterskill Falls, about 110 miles north of New York City, is misty and tranquil in times of low rainfall but can become thunderous and fierce for days after a heavy rain. At 230 feet, the combined drop of its upper and lower tiers is higher than Niagara Falls. The state has spent $1.25 million at the Kaaterskill Wild Forest to make the area safer and more accessible for visitors. The changes include a 200-step stone staircase connecting the bottom of the falls to the middle pool and the top of the falls. The staircase takes visitors through an area that was beyond the marked trail but used anyway by thousands of visitors. The work also included expanding two parking lots and adding a viewing platform, new fencing, warning signs, hand railings and a bridge over a creek upstream from the falls. New rules, which took effect Aug. 15, banned fires, alcohol, most glass containers and amplified music in the area around the falls. The rules also prohibit visitors from going within 6 feet of most cliff edges and ban swimmers from entering the stream within 150 feet of the top of the waterfall. Were doing everything in our power to provide a safe experience there, said Basil Seggos, the commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation. Weve got rangers and staff there who can help to guide people in the right direction, he said, adding: Stay on the trail; wear the right footwear; dont wear flip-flops. Long before Kaaterskill Falls were Instagram-famous, they were famous-famous. Hudson River School painters like Thomas Cole and Frederic Church made the site, and the whole region, a sensation in the 1800s. Three large hotels hosted tourists close to the falls well into the 1900s. But the flood of tourists slowed to a trickle as vacationers found new destinations. New York state acquired Kaaterskill Falls and the forest around it and razed what was left of the hotels in the 1960s. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. With nearly 1,000 visitors a day on summer weekends, it is easy to find someone at the falls who has had a brush with danger. Lauren Sansaricq, 28, an artist who lives in nearby East Jewett, New York, works in the style of the Hudson River School painters. She has painted Kaaterskill Falls, which she called a timeless and sacred place, hundreds of times, she said. Sansaricq said she was painting just downstream from Kaaterskill Falls in 2009 when a person fell and died. The staircase has helped, Sansaricq said. I think it allows people to view the falls at different angles in a safer way, she said, adding, It doesnt seem to interfere too much with the aesthetic. Those hurt at Kaaterskill Falls hope their stories can help prevent future accidents. After Gary Rankin fell 70 feet down the steep slope where the new staircase now stands, his wife ran to him and cleared the rocks and dirt from his mouth. Rankin, a pastor, had given a sermon that morning. Now he would be lucky to survive. A team of emergency medical workers carried him to an ambulance that took him to a waiting helicopter. He spent nearly eight weeks in a coma at Albany Medical Center. When Rankin woke up in 2004, he said, he thought his wife and others might be making the story up, because he wasnt able to process it at first. He had broken several ribs in his fall, punctured a lung, crushed two vertebrae and suffered a brain injury and a broken wrist, he said. Over several months, Rankin, now 53, relearned how to talk and how to walk. Now living with his wife, Ovel, in Coopersburg, Pennsylvania, Rankin said he would like to visit Kaaterskill Falls again, at some point, to see the new safety features. But even with the new rules, staircase, fencing and signage, he said: There is always going to be someone thats going to try to be more daring and go out, beyond where the stairs are, or say, Hey look at me look what I can do.' This article originally appeared in The New York Times. ALBANY University at Albany officials said they've seen no evidence that students were responsible for the handful of posters that were put up last month on campus touting Identity Evropa, a white supremacist group that wants to halt all forms of immigration. About two dozen of the posters were put up on the main campus podium bulletin boards and near the downtown campus. Because the podium bulletin boards are reserved for recognized student organizations, the posters were taken down since there is no official Identity Evropa on the campus. The group may be best known for dropping massive banners from bridges in and around Atlanta and other spots calling for an end to immigration. It was also involved in planning the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., which resulted in a fatality when a white supremacist drove his car into a crowd of protesters. Identity Evropa describes itself as an identitarian group seeking to preserve what they say is the white European culture of the U.S. UAlbany officials stressed that no such group is recognized as a campus organization. Nor do they believe there is any active effort to organize a campus chapter. The campus Student Association voted to condemn the group on Tuesday, and UAlbany President Havidan Rodriguez made a statement opposing its values. The beliefs espoused by this organization are antithetical to UAlbanys core belief that our rich diversity makes us stronger and propels our students, faculty and staff to accomplish great things, Rodriguez said in a prepared statement. To be absolutely clear: We are great because of our diversity, not in spite of it. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. UAlbany isnt the first campus to see such posters. In September posters from the group turned up outside Orange County Community College in Middletown, as well as outside the Mexican consulate in New York City. One of the posters criticizes Gov. Andrew Cuomo, claiming the he opposes freedom of speech. Cuomo has spoken out against hate crimes and white supremacist groups. More for you Rise in white supremacist literature found Another poster depicts a blue-eyed blond woman saying Thank you immigration and enforcement." rkarlin@timesunion.com 518 454 5758 @RickKarlinTU Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider subscribing to our ePaper and/or free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. The company says that this direct communication is an important part of helping the public to understand what they do. Irish Water is to write to homes and businesses on the public water network in County Tipperary where the drinking water quality is not as good as it could be. Water from the scheme affected, the Clonmel and Poulavanogue Public Water Supply, is still safe to drink. Irish Water will outline what we are doing in this scheme, which serves 2,711 customers, to improve supply. In the past, Irish Water only contacted homes and businesses if there was a problem with their drinking water supply that was likely to cause an immediate risk to health. Irish Water will continue to do that. However, the recent Water Services Policy Statement 2018 2025 called for better engagement with, and greater transparency for people using public water supplies. This direct communication is an important part of helping the public to understand what we do. Homes and businesses in 16 counties across the country on 53 different water supply schemes will receive a detailed booklet outlining the issues with their water supply which might vary from elevated THMs; inadequate barriers for cryptosporidium; poor turbidity removal; presence of low levels of pesticides; or details of an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) audit of a plant. The individual booklet will explain in detail to householders where their drinking water comes from; why Irish Water are writing to them; how Irish Water know that their water is safe to drink; information about regulation and testing; what Irish Water is doing to fix their specific water supply; and where they can get more information. The Clonmel & Poulavanogue Public Water Supply is affected by potential issues in relation to cryptosporidium. To address this, Irish Water is upgrading the Poulavanouge Water Treatment Plant. We expect the works to be completed by the end of 2020. Speaking about the public information campaign, Duane OBrien said, Irish Water has worked closely with the EPA to identify the public water schemes that need a plan or action to improve their water treatment. We are prioritising our investment in these treatment plants. Providing safe, clean drinking water for all in County Tipperary is our first goal. Everyone we are writing to in County Tipperary has access to drinking water that is safe to drink. We monitor and test our supplies on a continuous basis and if this monitoring indicates a potential water quality issue we consult with the HSE. If there is any potential risk to public health from the drinking water supply we inform the public immediately. If anyone has any questions or concerns they should contact Irish Water. If members of the public have any questions that are not covered in booklet please phone us on Callsave 1850 278 278 or +353 1 707 2828 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). We are investigating whether any laws were violated in the response to the risks of and outbreak of Legionella at the Quincy veterans home, where many people died, Madigan spokeswoman Maura Possley said in a statement. There needs to be an investigation to determine if laws were violated and whether residents of the home, their families, veterans home staff, and the public were informed in a timely and appropriate manner. A man living in Thurles but originally from Latvia was ordered to undergo 100 hours of community service at Thurles District Court, for defacing and drawing graffiti on walls, buildings and other property in the town last year. Evidence was heard at a previous Court that Pater Andrejevs, of 4 An Grianan, Kickham Street, Thurles, was charged with a series of graffiti related offences around Thurles on various dates in November and December, 2017. Judge MacGrath heard that there were 18 charges against Andrejevs in total, relating to graffiti damage at multiple locations in Friar Street, Croke Street, Westgate, Liberty Square, Mitchell Street, Kickham Street, and the Stradavoher Industrial Estate, Thurles. Most of the graffiti was done with a marker which is not so hard to remove, but a minority was done using spray, which is harder to remove, said a Court Sergeant. Judge MacGrath adjourned the case to September 25th last, both for Victim Impact Statements, and to assess the issue of compensation and cost of clean up from the injured parties. Solicitor Mr Brian Hughes said it was a curious case. Mr Andrejevs (30) has been in Ireland for 10 years, and has three children. He is not currently working. Andrejevs has no prior convictions, and co-operated fully with Gardai. He made admissions in custody. Full and frank admissions, said Mr Hughes. Judge MacGrath said she noted the personal statements from the victims, and the huge imposition the graffiti caused, as the victims had to clean it up themselves. Your client did not clean up the mess himself, the Judge told Mr Hughes. Judge MacGrath said Andrejevs should give something back to the community and directed he undertake 100 hours of community service, in lieu of 3 months imprisonment. [October 02, 2018] Ping An Good Doctor Forms Joint Venture with Grab to Provide One-Stop Healthcare Services in Southeast Asia SHANGHAI and HONG KONG, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- China's leading one-stop healthcare ecosystem platform, Ping An Good Doctor (01833.HK, hereinafter "PAGD"), announced that it has entered into a subscription agreement with Grab for a joint venture in Southeast Asia. The joint venture will be primarily engaged in one-stop healthcare services in Southeast Asia on a mobile platform. These services include online healthcare, consumer healthcare, health malls, health management and interaction and other services. The registered capital of the joint venture company is US$20 million, controlled by PAGD. In the future, the two parties may further increase investment in cash or valuable assets (approximately equivalent to US$120 million), depending on the development of the joint venture. Grab, Southeast Asia's leading O2O mobile platform, currently covers 225 cities in 8 countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar and Cambodia, providing services such as transportation, food and beverage, shopping and distribution, and integrated e-wallet (GrabPay). Grab will be the first startup in Southeast Asia to earn $1 billion this year. Currently, there are 7.1 million personal service providers including drivers on the Grab platform. Ping An Good Doctor is a leading one-stop healthcare ecosystem platform in China. Through the integration of resources of our AI-assisted in-house medical team, external doctors and healthcare network, it has established a self-contained servicing system that allows its users to consult doctors and purchase medicine online, or consult doctors online and receive offline medical treatment arranged. Ping An Good Doctor now covers approximately 3,100 hospitals (including over 1,200 Class III Grade A hospitals), approximately 2,000 healthcare institutions such as health check-up centers, dental clinics and cosmetic surgery institutions, as well as over 10,000 pharmacy outlets. Meanwhile, PAGD aims to build the world's largest healthcare ecosystem, and regards globalization as one of the core strategies for it to realize its vision. To help achieve this, PAGD is trying to establish a strong global presence by integrating global healthcare service resources. Currently, PAGD's healthcare service network covers nearly 10 countries and regions, including the United States, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland and Singapore, where it has collaborated with hundreds of well-known hospitals. By 2030, Southeast Asia is expected to have a population of 640 million, and is predicted to become the world's fourth largest economy, meaning its healthcare market has great potential. However, the region is also encountering problems such as lacking of adequate medical infrastructure, inefficient medical institutions, while the geographical gap between rural and urban areas makes medical treatment more difficult. In Indonesia, for example, there is only one doctor per 5,000 people, which is much lower than the ratio of three to four doctors per 1,000 people in high-income countries. The joint venture between Ping An Good Doctor and Grab will proide a solution that combines PAGD's advanced medical AI technology with Grab's vast user base and operational experience in Southeast Asia to complement each other's strengths and deliver one-stop healthcare services and improve medical conditions for local residents, ranging from online healthcare to health management for the Southeast Asian market. Moreover, the establishment of the joint venture will help PAGD broaden its user base, expand its international service network, integrate regional resources and establish a global healthcare ecosystem. The joint venture company will also actively explore the opportunities in the Southeast Asian medical market with more and more partners in the future. Lee Yuansiong, Executive Director, Executive Vice President, Deputy CEO and Chief Insurance Business Officer of Ping An Group, said, "The cooperation between Ping An Good Doctor and Grab is a major step for Ping An Good Doctor's internationalization and is also hugely significant for the entire Ping An Group in its bid to explore the Southeast Asian market. Ping An Good Doctor is the only active platform to drive traffic within the Group to implement the Healthcare & Technology Strategy, one of the two strategic businesses of Ping An Group. In the future, Ping An Group will continue to support interactions between Ping An Good Doctor and other businesses of the Group, to offer more resources and promote rapid growth. By using technology, we aim to help people enjoy a healthier life." Wang Tao, Chairman and CEO of Ping An Good Doctor, said, "Ping An Good Doctor will become a globally influential internet healthcare ecosystem platform. We will replicate our successful model in the Chinese market to the overseas market and export our mature technologies and services, resolving medical issues worldwide. Grab is a trust-worthy company and we are excited to work with Grab to tap into the growth potential of Southeast Asia, providing outstanding one-stop medical health services to hundreds of millions of local users." Anthony Tan, Group CEO and Co-Founder, Grab said, "We are thrilled to partner with Ping An Good Doctor (PAGD) for Grab's first venture into online healthcare. PAGD is an industry leader in online healthcare and has developed a proven business model around a complex challenge in China. Grab was founded on the principle of bringing accessible and affordable services to the masses in Southeast Asia, be it in transport, payments, food delivery or groceries. We believe everyone should have access to high-quality and affordable healthcare. Together with PAGD, we will deliver affordable healthcare through technology. This has the potential to make a huge impact in the lives of our families and communities we serve across SEA." About Grab Grab is one of the most frequently used O2O mobile platforms in Southeast Asia, providing the everyday services that matter most to consumers. Commute, eat, deliver shopping - and pay with one e-wallet. Grab believes that every Southeast Asian should benefit from the digital economy, and Grab provides access to safe and affordable transport, food and package delivery, mobile payments and financial services. Grab currently offers services in Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar and Cambodia. For more information, please visit www.Grab.com. About Ping An Good Doctor (1833.HK) Ping An Good Doctor is the leading one-stop healthcare ecosystem platform in China. By combining "mobile health + AI technology", the Company strives to provide every family with a family doctor, every person with an e-health profile and everyone with a healthcare management plan. Ping An Good Doctor has established a comprehensive, one-stop healthcare ecosystem covering family doctor services, consumer healthcare services, a health mall as well as health management and wellness interaction. As of the end of June 2018, there were 228 million registered users and the Company's MAU reached 48.6 million. Ping An Good Doctor is today the largest mobile medical application in China in terms of user scale. Ping An Good Doctor employs more than a thousand medical personnel (Assistant Supervisor Level or above from Class III Grade A Hospitals) in its in-house medical team and contracts with 4,650 renowned external doctors. This in-house medical team, empowered by our proprietary AI technology, provides users with 24 x 7 online consultation services. In our offline partnership network, Ping An Good Doctor collaborates with approximately 3,100 hospitals (including more than 1,200 Class III Grade A hospitals) to provide services such as hospital referral, appointment and inpatient arrangements. Ping An Good Doctor also partners with more than 2,000 healthcare institutions, including physical examination centers, dental clinics, cosmetic surgery institutions and more than 10,000 pharmacy outlets, to provide relevant health and wellness services to our users. By integrating our AI-empowered medical team, external doctors and offline network, Ping An Good Doctor has established a closed-loop healthcare ecosystem which enables our users to enjoy online consultations and online drug purchases, as well as online consultations and offline follow-up treatment, thereby providing convenient, high-quality and efficient family doctor services. In April 2015, the App "Ping An Good Doctor" was officially launched. In May 2016, the Company completed an A round financing and raised US$500 million. In December 2017, the Company completed the pre-IPO financing from Softbank Vision Fund, during which it raised US$400 million. On 4 May 2018, Ping An Good Doctor became the No.1 listed internet health-tech company in the world when it joined the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, stock code 01833.HK. Our IPO cornerstone investors include Blackrock, Capital Group, GIC, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Swiss Re and CP Group. SOURCE Ping An Good Doctor [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 02, 2018] Ping An Good Doctor Included in Stock Connect of HKEX HONG KONG and SHANGHAI, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- China's leading one-stop healthcare ecosystem platform, Ping An Good Doctor (the "Company", stock code: 1833.HK), is pleased to announce that it has been selected as an eligible stock for Southbound Trading under the Stock Connect scheme of the HKEX (Hong Kong Stock Exchange), with effect from 10 September 2018. Mainland China investors who satisfy certain eligibility criteria can now directly invest in and trade the shares of Ping An Good Doctor through their inbound A-share accounts (both Shanghai Stock Exchange and Shenzhen Stock Exchange). Ping An Good Doctor has an extensive user base and a vibrant healthcare ecosystem. The inclusion of Ping An Good Doctor to the Stock Connect scheme is testimony to the market's recognition of the financial performance and growth potential of the Company. It can help expand the Company's shareholder base, increase its share liquidity and enhance its reputation in the capital market, and therefore improve the Company's shareholding structure and enhance investment value in the long run. According to Frost & Sullivan's report, along with the increasing awareness of healthcare, improvement of internet technology and increasing disposable income of Chinese citizens, the Chinese pan-healthcare sector has been growing rapidly in recent years. In 2016, the market size of the pan-healthcare sector reached RMB8.6 trillion and it is expected to reach RMB26.8 trillion in 2026. In addition, national policy has also helped to improve the prospects of the industry. The implementation of policies such as "Opinions on Promoting the Development of Internet+ Healthcare" helped the development of internet healthcare. In this blue ocean worth trillions of RMB in market size, by integrating the medical team, external doctors and offline network, Ping An Good Doctor has established a closed-loop healthcare ecosystem which enables its users to enjoy online consultations and online drug purchases, as well as offline follow-up treatment on the strength of world-leading AI healthcare technology. At the moment, Ping An Good Doctor collaborates with approximately 3,100 hospitals (including more than 1,200 Class III Grade A hospitals), more than 2,000 healthcare institutions, including physical examination centers, dental clinics cosmetic surgery institutions and more than 10,000 pharmacy outlets. Payment-wise, Ping An good Doctor actively explores diversified forms of partnerships with commercial insurance companies to provide policyholders with one-stop healthcare solutions and help the insurance companies manage policyholders' health and enhance the insurers' risk control. Ping An Good Doctor recorded a revenue of RMB1,123 million for the first half of 2018, representing a year-on-year increase of 150.3%. Among which, the family doctor services business, the core business of the Company, recorded a revenue of RMB186 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 91.4%. As of the end of 30 June 2018, Ping An Good Doctor's mobile application gained 228 million registered users (RU) and had 48.6 million monthly active users, making it the most popular mobile healthcare mobile application in China. According to the "Active Medical App in July 2018" released by Analysys, a well-known internet data research institute, the monthly active users (MAU) of Ping An Good Doctor's App is almost double that of the total MAU of the other Apps ranking from second to tenth on the list. Ping An Good Doctor's MAU is approximately six times greater than the App ranking second on the list, outpacing other competitors in terms of market share in the internet medical field. In addition to achieving continuous breakthroughs in business, Ping An Good Doctor also actively carries forward its internationalization strategy and established an international joint venture with Grab, a technology company that offers ride-hailing services through an app, in order to export Ping An Good Doctor's outstanding medical services and artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Ping An Good Doctor aims to pursue development opportunities in the Southeast Asian market, building a solid foundation for "the greatest medical healthcare ecosystem in the world", with the help of Grab's large user base in the Southeast Asian market. About Ping An Good Doctor (1833.HK) Ping An Good Doctor is the leading one-stop healthcare ecosystem platform in China. By combining "mobile health + AI technology", the Company strives to provide every family with a family doctor, every person with an e-health profile and everyone with a healthcare management plan. Ping An Good Doctor has established a comprehensive, one-stop healthcare ecosystem covering family doctor services, consumer healthcare services, a health mall as well as health management and wellness interaction. As of the end of June 2018, there were 228 million registered users and the Company's MAU reached 48.6 million. Ping An Good Doctor is today the largest mobile medical application in China in terms of user scale. Ping An Good Doctor employs more than a thousand medical personnel (Assistant Supervisor Level or above from Class III Grade A Hospitals) in its in-house medical team and contracts with 4,650 renowned external doctors. This in-house medical team, empowered by our proprietary AI technology, provides users with 24 x 7 online consultation services. In our offline partnership network, Ping An Good Doctor collaborates with approximately 3,100 hospitals (including more than 1,200 Class III Grade A hospitals) to provide services such as hospital referral, appointment and inpatient arrangements. Ping An Good Doctor also partners with more than 2,000 healthcare institutions, including physical examination centers, dental clinics, cosmetic surgery institutions and more than 10,000 pharmacy outlets, to provide relevant health and wellness services to our users. By integrating our AI-empowered medical team, external doctors and offline network, Ping An Good Doctor has established a closed-loop healthcare ecosystem which enables our users to enjoy online consultations and online drug purchases, as well as online consultations and offline follow-up treatment, thereby providing convenient, high-quality and efficient family doctor services. In April 2015, the App "Ping An Good Doctor" was officially launched. In May 2016, the Company completed an A round financing and raised US$500 million. In December 2017, the Company completed the pre-IPO financing from Softbank Vision Fund, during which it raised US$400 million. On 4 May 2018, Ping An Good Doctor became the No.1 listed internet health-tech company in the world when it joined the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, stock code 01833.HK. Our IPO cornerstone investors include Blackrock, Capital Group, GIC, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Swiss Re and CP Group. SOURCE Ping An Good Doctor [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 02, 2018] KOKO Networks Announces Strategic Investment in Saarus Innovations AHMEDABAD, India and NAIROBI, Kenya, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Partnership will strengthen innovative product design and manufacturing capacity for fast-growing consumer markets in Africa KOKO Networks Ltd. ('KOKO'), an international technology company with operations in East Africa and India, today announces a strategic investment in Saarus Innovations Pvt. Ltd. ('Saarus'), a product design and manufacturing company headquartered in Ahmedabad, India. The partnership will accelerate the design, market testing and high-volume production of innovative consumer and SME-sector products for fast-growing urban markets in Africa. KOKO and Saarus have collaborated closely in recent years. In particular, Saarus helped design, develop and manufacture KOKO's patent-pending bio-ethanol powered cookstove, which was commercially piloted in selected neighborhoods of Nairobi in 2017. The full commercial roll-out of KOKO's clean fuel distribution network will commence in Kenya in 2019 in partnership with Vivo Energy (which distributes and markets Shell-branded fuels and lubricants across Africa). One of the first investments through the expanded partnership is the development of a 60,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Gujarat, India, for mass production of KOKO's next generation bio-ethanol cookstove for export to multiple markets across Africa fromearly 2019. Saarus will also support the design and commissioning of KOKO's manufacturing facilities in Africa, starting with an assembly and maintenance unit for KOKO's smart bio-ethanol fuel dispensers and last-mile fuel logistics systems in Nairobi, Kenya, which will commence production in late-2018. Over the longer term, Saarus will support KOKO and its global contract manufacturing partners in the design and production of a wide array of affordable, life-enhancing consumer products for mass market households worldwide. Sagun Saxena, Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of KOKO Networks, commented: "Our investment in Saarus strengthens an exciting and productive partnership, and deepens KOKO's links into one of the world's most competitive manufacturing hubs. Combined with our software and electronics engineering expertise, these new capabilities will expand the range and scalability of the KOKO Platform." Salil Bhargava, Co-Founder of Saarus Innovations, added: "This partnership is a natural fit: KOKO has been one of our boldest clients and we share the same passion for innovation. KOKO's investment will enable us to bring more breakthrough products to life by expanding our design and manufacturing capabilities, and KOKO's smart distribution networks will enable African consumers to access these products more easily and affordably than ever before." About KOKO KOKO is an international technology company, based in East Africa and India, with a unique hardware and software platform for mass-market retail in Africa's cities. The KOKO Group operates from six locations across Mauritius, Kenya, Uganda and India. KOKO's 'Smart Commerce' platform leverages mobile money, IoT, and cloud computing to connect consumers, retailers and suppliers to improve life for everyone in Africa's cities. The Group's first retail network commenced operations in Nairobi, Kenya in 2017. For more information, visit http://www.kokonetworks.com. About Saarus Saarus is a hardware product design and manufacturing company that was established in 2015 by a group of professionals with over a decade of experience working together on new product development. After completing several projects in the food technology, medical devices, and clean technology sectors for clients from around the world, in 2018 Saarus joined the KOKO group as its in-house product design and manufacturing arm. Saarus' key strengths lie in translating innovative market insights into clear product concepts, managing projects with significant technical complexity, and persevering to deliver market-ready products. In short, Saarus makes things that get made. For more information, visit http://www.saarus.com. Media Contact : Ed Agnew e.agnew@kokonetworks.com KOKO Networks [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] MetricNet Delivers Two Presentations at the 2018 FUSION Conference MCLEAN, Va., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Jeff Rumburg, co-founder and Managing Partner of MetricNet, presented "The 80/20 Rule for Service and Support KPIs - The Metrics of Success" and was a key panelist in the discussion "From Cost Center to Value Center in IT Service Management, at the Annual FUSION Conference in St. Louis, Missouri. This marks the 5th consecutive year Mr. Rumburg has been selected as a speaker for the Annual FUSION Conference & Expo. In "The Metrics of Success" presentation, Mr. Rumburg identified and defined the IT Service Management metrics that can be leveraged for competitive advantage, discussed the importance of adopting a holistic approach to performance measurement, and demonstrated how Key Performance Indicators can be used to drive World-Class performance. Those interested in the presentation can find a copy of the slide deck on MetricNet's website. "Most support managers can tell you everything from last month's average speed of answer to yesterday's average handle time," said Rumburg. "Unfortunately many support managers are unaware of the critical role beyond mere measurement that Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) can and should play in IT service and support. This includes the ability to track and trend performance, identify, diagnose, and correct performance problems, establish performance goals and assign accountability, and most importantly, to drive actions that lead to improved performance." In the panel discussion, Jeff Rumburg challenged the way support professionals think about IT Service Management (ITSM) and provided a framework fo transforming IT service and support from a cost center to a value center. Additionally, he demonstrated how the most successful support organizations think and act like true businesses, and are driven by a value-centric operating model. Mr. Rumburg is the winner of the Ron Muns Lifetime Achievement Award and was named one of the Top 25 Thought Leaders in Technical Support and Service Management for 2016 and 2017. He is co-founder and Managing Partner of MetricNet, LLC, where he is responsible for global strategy, product development, and client engagement delivery. As a leading expert in benchmarking and re-engineering, Mr. Rumburg authored a best selling book on benchmarking and has been retained as a benchmarking expert by such well-known companies as American Express, Hewlett- Packard, General Motors, and IBM. If you would like more information about benchmarking your service and support functions, please visit http://www.metricnet.com or e-mail MetricNet at info(at)metricnet(dot)com. About MetricNet MetricNet is the global leader in IT service and support benchmarking. More than half of the FORTUNE 500 rely on MetricNet benchmarks to improve and optimize their performance. MetricNet is the first, and still the only company to offer downloadable service desk and desktop support benchmarks from their website. With a global benchmarking database of nearly 4,000 IT service and support benchmarks, MetricNet has the most comprehensive database of process and performance metrics in the industry. About itSMF USA itSMF USA, a chapter of itSMF International, is the independent professional organization and forum for IT Service Management professionals in the US. A not-for-profit organization, itSMF is a prominent player in the on-going development of IT Service management professionals and the promotion of IT Service Management (ITSM) best practices, standards, and qualifications in the United States. This network of industry professionals, white papers, webinars, podcasts, conferences, and other resources creates an opportunity for you and your organization to connect, learn and grow. Come be part of the IT service management profession. Learn more at itsmfusa.org. About FUSION FUSION, independently hosted by itSMF USA, is the event for service management professionals to come together to chart new paths and to discover solutions to challenges faced when implementing virtualization, the cloud, mobility, security, SaaS and more. During this conference, attendees will connect with other peers in the ITSM space to learn best practices through a collaborative platform as approximately 1,600 industry professionals gather under one roof. Learn more at sm-fusion.com. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/metricnet-delivers-two-presentations-at-the-2018-fusion-conference-300723214.html SOURCE MetricNet, LLC [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] ReloQuest Inc. Technology on Shortlist for Two FEM, EMMA Awards SUNRISE, Florida, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- ReloQuest Inc., the leading business solution for relocation technology is honored to announce we have been shortlisted for two awards at the annual European Expatriate Management and Mobility Awards (EMMA's). Most Innovative Use of technology in Global Mobility-Bespoke Global Mobility Professional of the Year--Darin Karp Organized by the Forum for Expatriate Management (FEM), the EMMA's recognize professional excellence in global mobility, celebrate the best and brightest of the industry, best practice, and those who have made an outstanding contribution to Global mobility. FEM is reaching their ten-year landmark with this event. The awards gala will follow the summit held on the 9th of November 2018 at the 02 InterContinental, London. The Judges are leading industry experts; the criteria include innovation, strategy, results and the impact of the work. ReloQuest is very grateful for the ongoing recognition from FEM. This shortlisting is following prior EMMA's awards in both 2016 and 2017 where ReloQuest received, the Most Innovative Use of Technology in Global Mobility-Bespoke award at the Forum for Expatriate Management (FEM) Americas EMMAs 2017, and at EMEA in 2016. Additionally, ReloQuest Founder, Darin Karp, was awarded the Global Mobility Rising Star. ReloQuest Technology is shaping the course of travel management with its unbiased business solution that has created the largest and most trusted open marketplace. Darin Karp, ReloQuest Inc. Founder and CEO stated, "ReloQuest is honored to be on the EMMA Shortlist in two categories. Intuitive technology is enabling expanded global mobility. Impactful predictive analytics that facilitates business insight and correct obstacles is critical to succeed in this fast-paced world. ReloQuest's exceptional growth demonstrates the necessity of an agile business solution. Organizations; such as FEM are essential because they bring opportunity to exchange knowledge, gain skills, discove new solutions and future trends in a complex field." Why use ReloQuest-- https://reloquest.com/ Today, most want flexibility and the ability to source, plan, and implement rapidly. We are seeing global mobility teams work together in a business partner capacity. As a B2B, and B2E(employee) business solution. ReloQuest supports our clients, suppliers, assignee's and their organizations. Commitment to excellence and customer-centric service has created the ReloQuest technology referred to today as the industry "Gold Standard." What Clients are saying: https://reloquest.com/rq-testimonials.php#clients Universal ReloQuest equips RMC's and TMC's as well as employees with the flexibility they need to accelerate the relocation process, make decisions that both meets the needs of the business and provides opportunities that sync their mobile employees' personal and professional desires. The aggregator technology simplifies the process of sourcing temporary accommodations while supplying: rapid implementation, ease of use, genuine transparency, real-time data, substantial cost reduction, direct communication, reported 80% increases in efficiency, and vetted global supplier representation. Users can adhere to compliance and policy as required by their organizations. Displayed options are driven by specific, measurable and reportable KPI's providing the employee full control of the experience while staying within the company's guidelines. The revolutionary dashboard reports pending actions in real-time, display reference points and actionable items; such as sending reminders on when to complete plans, approve or cancel bookings. ReloQuest has made real-time reporting possible in many areas. For the first time in our industry users can measure and manage performance. Benefits: https://reloquest.com/index.php#benefits About ReloQuest ReloQuest is a business solution that allows companies and employees to search, compare, and book serviced apartments and hotels around the world. The platform was built from industry knowledge understanding the need to develop a comprehensive technology to source accommodations, compare global options based on the needs of the individual, collect data to provide customizable analytics, and proficiently manage a supply chain. Award-winning ReloQuest creates a streamlined user experience, provides forecasting data, measurement criteria, metrics and actionable insight to minimize corporate risk. Learn more about ReloQuest at https://reloquest.com/ Media Contact: Jeana Giordano 954-982-7997 Jgiordano@reloquest.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/753237/ReloQuest_EMEA_EMMA.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/753238/ReloQuest_Darin_Karp.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/510115/ReloQuest_Logo.jpg [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] ReloQuest Inc. Shortlisted for the Serviced Apartment Awards--Industry Breakthrough & Innovation Award - Business Partner SUNRISE, Florida, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- ReloQuest Inc., is honored to be nominated, by the Association of Serviced Apartments Providers (ASAP), shortlisted for making an outstanding contribution in the category of Innovation. The ASAP Awards recognize excellence across the extended stay, aparthotel, serviced apartment, and short-term rental sectors. ReloQuest is a universal technology, that does far more than creatively innovate the traditional serviced accommodation offering. The technology is a multi-award-winning business solution that provides a fully transparent resource for global mobility clients in need of sourcing temporary housing, serviced apartments, and hotels, worldwide. ReloQuest's unique principles have been incorporated into an all-inclusive mobile experience integrating the most robust service platform available to clients, called ReloQuest Direct. https://reloquest.com/ ReloQuest does not stop at challenging the status quo; this revolutionary business solution is shaping the course of travel management with its unbiased platform that has created an open marketplace. Available anytime, anywhere and on any device, the aggregator technology simplifies the process of sourcing temporary accommodations while supplying: rapid implementation, ease of use, genuine transparency, real-time data, substantial cost reduction, direct communication, reported 80% increases in efficiency, and extensive vetted global supplier representation. See what ReloQuest clients and network of Verified Suppliers have to say: https://www.reloquest.com/rq-testimonials.php#clients. Functioning as an ecosystem, ReloQuest connects clients, suppliers, and guests throughout the process of their accommodation. Users can select and manage a global spply chain, analyze reservation data, create flexible workflows, and integrate with relocation management software. Darin Karp, ReloQuest Inc. Founder and CEO stated, "ReloQuest is comprehensive, yet easy to navigate using comparison functionality--the platform delivers a superior user experience. TMCs, RMC's and channel partners can finally capture data and monetize transactions with little to no workflow burden. A hotel stay can be added to the itinerary with a corporate apartment stay. We strive every day to continually enhance the platform with groundbreaking technology that solves industry challenges. The entire ReloQuest team is very grateful for this exciting recognition, which validates we are making a global impact." James Foice, ASAP CEO comments: ASAP represents 189-member organizations in 19 countries worldwide which complements our aspiration for global growth. Support and awareness of ASAP quality accreditation continues with activity now in New Zealand, Australia, South America, and Asia so this year's awards programme will recognize and celebrate excellence and innovation in our wonderful industry as it continues to grow globally." The 2018 Gala dinner which will include the presentation of the prestigious ASAP Serviced Apartment Industry Awards will take place on the evening of December 6th at etc. venues, 155 Bishopsgate London, following the ASAP Convention. ReloQuest Inc. won the Best Technological Innovation award for corporate support from Relocate Global in 2018. Explaining how ReloQuest managed to take the top spot this year, the Relocate Global judges said, "The organization stands out as being highly innovative, creating a positive experience for users exhibiting advanced technology for clients and individuals alike. The site is easy to navigate using cutting edge, state-of-the-art comparison functionality which whilst providing a superior customer experience enables cost savings and reduces workload." https://www.relocatemagazine.com/awards-2018-winner-best-technological-innovation-corporate-support ReloQuest turns customer challenges into custom solutions that promote user success. ReloQuest's Network of Verified Suppliers are in over 85 Countries Globally and feature 24/7 customer support. About ReloQuest ReloQuest is a business solution that allows companies and employees to search, compare, and book corporate apartments and hotels around the world. The platform was built from industry knowledge understanding the need to develop a comprehensive technology to source accommodations, quickly compare global options based on the needs of the individual, collect data to provide customizable analytics, and proficiently manage a supply chain. Contact: Jeana Giordano, 954-415-5423 (Cell), Jgiordano@reloquest.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/753262/SAI_Breakthrough_Innovation_Awards.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/510115/ReloQuest_Logo.jpg [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Accruent Joins G-Cloud Ensuring Public Sector Access to Our Software in a Cost-Effective, Agile Way Accruent, the world's leading provider of physical resource management solutions, announced today that the Government of the United Kingdom (UK Government) has added Accruent products to their G-Cloud initiative to ease procurement of cloud computing software and services. "The push for overseas expansion and exportation of the Digital Marketplace is in direct response to the success the procurement hub has had to-date."[1] Since 2012, public sector bodies in the UK have spent 2.6bn with businesses of all sizes through the Digital Marketplace. The UK Government G-Cloud is an initiative to enable the efficient purchasing of cloud computing technology services. Over 38,000 public sector buyers have been mandated to buy through the newly introduced framework. Companies seeking to market products to the UK Government must be registered on G-Cloud to sell cloud services. "The need for reliable, dependable cloud solutions is increasing, so we are proud of the work we have done to become a G-Cloud approved supplier," says John Borgerding, CEO, Accruent. "We're pleased to offer five of our most compelling cloud solutions on the G-Cloud framework to help public sector customers with a range of needs - from building surveying, capital planning, and project management to lease accounting, remote monitoring, and mobile workforce management." The G-Cloud initiative includes a framework of standardised agreements with suppliers, from which UK public sector organisations can buy products and services without the burden of running a full tender or competitive procurement process. The initiative also includes an online store, "Digital Marketplace" (previously "CloudStore") that allows public sector purchasers to search easily for services that are offered through G-Cloud. Accruent's flagship G-Cloud offering to date has been Kykloud, a mobile surveying and inspections application solution. Kykloud was selected in 2017 as a cloud solution for the Department for Education CDC project, one of the largest surveys of its type in Europe. The project is surveying the condition of 22,000 schools throughout the UK and the development of capital plans for more than 20 billion of infrastructure investment over the next 5 years. G-Cloud accredited products from Accruent include: About Accruent accruent.com, @accruentllc Accruent is a global software company that helps organisations achieve superior performance by transforming how they manage their physical resources. Its innovative, industry-leading cloud-based software and services enable organisations to optimise all stages of asset management from capital planning through to IoT-based monitoring and control. With a proven track record across two decades, Accruent has created the only integrated SaaS (News - Alert) -based framework and reporting platform for full lifecycle physical resource management. Over 10,000 global customers depend on Accruent solutions to drive out hidden costs, extend asset lifecycles, protect their brands, ensure compliance and deliver on the missions of their organisation. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Accruent customers, with operations across 150 countries, span multiple industries including: retail, commercial, government, healthcare, education, telecommunications, utilities, manufacturing and many more. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005064/en/ [October 03, 2018] Carvana Expands to Myrtle Beach, Growing its Presence in South Carolina Carvana (NYSE: CVNA), a leading e-commerce platform for buying, financing and selling used cars, has launched in Myrtle Beach, S.C., with as-soon-as-next-day vehicle delivery. Customers can shop more than 10,000 vehicles on Carvana.com, finance, purchase, and even sell their current vehicle to Carvana, then schedule as-soon-as-next-day delivery in as little as 10 minutes. Customers who simply wish to sell their vehicle to Carvana can get an offer online in just two minutes and also schedule as-soon-as-next-day pickup of that vehicle. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005152/en/ Carvana expands to Myrtle Beach, S.C., offering as-soon-as-next-day vehicle delivery. (Photo: Business Wire) Because Carvana customers shop for and purchase their next vehicle entirely online, they save valuable time and money. Carvana's national inventory of more than 10,000 vehicles paired with a customer-centric purchase process means customers can feel confident that they are getting a great selection at a great price with a great experience. Every Carvana vehicle is Carvana Certified, meaning it has no frame damage, has never been in a reported accient, and has undergone a rigorous 150-point inspection. Features, imperfections and updated information about open safety recalls are listed on the car's vehicle description page. And every Carvana vehicle comes with a seven-day return policy, so customers have the time to ensure the vehicle truly fits their life; an upgrade from the typical four right-hand turns around a dealership block. "We first launched in South Carolina just over a year ago, and in that short period of time, they've shown us they welcome our new way to buy a car," said Ernie Garcia, founder and CEO of Carvana. "We're looking forward to being welcomed in the same way in Myrtle Beach." Carvana believes in treating people better, and being active in the communities in which its employees live and work. Knowing that South Carolina, as well as surrounding areas, have been severely impacted by the aftermath of Hurricane Florence, Carvana has partnered with Harvest Hope Food Bank to collect monetary and in-kind donations to assist in relief efforts. South Carolina customers who have a vehicle delivered, as well as those who sell their vehicle to Carvana and schedule it to be picked up, can donate non-perishable food items that Carvana will collect and deliver to Harvest Hope. Those who wish to make a monetary donation, regardless of location, can donate online at https://donate.harvesthope.org/. About Carvana (NYSE: CVNA) Founded in 2012 and based in Phoenix, Carvana's (NYSE: CVNA) mission is to change the way people buy cars. By removing the traditional dealership infrastructure and replacing it with technology and exceptional customer service, Carvana offers consumers an intuitive and convenient online car buying and financing platform. Carvana.com enables consumers to quickly and easily shop more than 10,000 vehicles, finance, trade-in or sell their current vehicle to Carvana, sign contracts, and schedule as-soon-as-next-day delivery or pickup at one of Carvana's proprietary automated Car Vending Machines. For further information on Carvana, please visit www.carvana.com, or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005152/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Ping An Good Doctor Establishes Strategic Partnership with CR Sanjiu to Jointly Promotes Pharmaceutical New Retail HONG KONG and SHANGHAI, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- China's leading one-stop healthcare ecosystem platform, Ping An Good Doctor (the "Company", stock code: 1833.HK), today announced the strategic partnership with China Resources Sanjiu Medical & Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. ("CR Sanjiu"). The two parties will integrate their respective superior resources, such as Ping An Good Doctor's leading AI healthcare technologies and massive user scale, and CR Sanjiu's product advantages in over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs, to build the emerging business model of "Internet + Medical" together. The collaboration will not only enhance the medical services of both companies, but also bring a deep integration of the mobile internet and medical services to the industry. CR Sanjiu is a large state-owned pharmaceutical listed company that mainly engages in the research and development, production, sales of pharmaceutical products and related healthcare services. Its main businesses are OTC and Chinese medicine prescription drugs. In terms of OTC core products, CR Sanjiu maintains leading market shares in the products of cold medicine, gastroenterology, dermatology, pediatrics, cough medicine and orthopedic medicine. Its Chinese medicine prescription drugs also have a strong presence in the Chinese market, including Chinese medicine formula granules, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular medicine, anti-tumor medicine, anti-infective medicine, etc. CR Sanjiu's flagship brands include "999", Xue Sai Tong Soft Capsules, Shunfeng and Tianhe, which are highly reputable and influential in the Chinese pharmaceutical industry. Ping An Good Doctor is a leading one-stop healthcare ecosystem platform in China. Leveraging the world's leading AI healthcare technologies, the Company consolidates its in-house medical team of more than a thousand medical professionals, external contracted doctors and offline healthcare network, to establish a self-contained servicing system that allows its users to consult doctors and purchase medicine online, or consult doctors online and receive medical treatment offline. Ping An Good Doctor now works wit approximately 3,100 hospitals (including more than 1,200 Class III Grade A hospitals), and more than 2,000 healthcare institutions such as physical examination centers, dental clinics, cosmetic surgery institutions and more than 10,000 pharmacy outlets. In China, the "Healthy China" plan has become the national strategy, and "Internet + Medical" is emerging as an important part of China's Healthcare Reform. The integration of internet medical and traditional medical entities has become one of the development trends of the medical industry. The strategic cooperation between Ping An Good Doctor and CR Sanjiu reflects this trend. They will consolidate their respective resources on pharmaceutical new retail, Chinese medicine revitalization, medical AI, family doctor services, marketing and poverty alleviation programs. In terms of pharmaceutical new retail, the two companies will leverage on Ping An Good Doctor's internet hospital, in-house medical team and substantial user traffic, as well as CR Sanjiu's advantages in product and brand, to strengthen the self-contained servicing chain. From doctor consultations, prescriptions, product purchases to drug delivery, the comprehensive healthcare service will provide a better experience for its users. For the revitalization of Chinese medicine, the two parties will focus on online Chinese medicine healthcare. They will also use Ping An Good Doctor's big data and user's profiling to explore new models of "internet + Chinese medicine healthcare" and "internet + chronic illness management", striving to promote the standardization of Chinese medicine and expand the client base of the Chinese medicine market. In addition, the two parties will collaborate to strengthen marketing programs, promoting each other's brand online and offline, and to expand the client base and enhance user loyalty. About Ping An Good Doctor (01833.HK) Ping An Good Doctor is the leading one-stop healthcare ecosystem platform in China. By combining "mobile health + AI technology", the Company strives to provide every family with a family doctor, every person with an e-health profile and everyone with a healthcare management plan. Ping An Good Doctor has established a comprehensive, one-stop healthcare ecosystem covering family doctor services, consumer healthcare services, a health mall as well as health management and wellness interaction. As of the end of June 2018, there were 228 million registered users and the Company's MAU reached 48.6 million. Ping An Good Doctor is today the largest mobile medical application in China in terms of user scale. Ping An Good Doctor employs more than a thousand medical personnel (Assistant Supervisor Level or above from Class III Grade A Hospitals) in its in-house medical team and contracts with 4,650 renowned external doctors. This in-house medical team, empowered by our proprietary AI technology, provides users with 24 x 7 online consultation services. In our offline partnership network, Ping An Good Doctor collaborates with approximately 3,100 hospitals (including more than 1,200 Class III Grade A hospitals) to provide services such as hospital referral, appointment and inpatient arrangements. Ping An Good Doctor also partners with more than 2,000 healthcare institutions, including physical examination centers, dental clinics, cosmetic surgery institutions and more than 10,000 pharmacy outlets, to provide relevant health and wellness services to our users. By integrating our AI-empowered medical team, external doctors and offline network, Ping An Good Doctor has established a closed-loop healthcare ecosystem which enables our users to enjoy online consultations and online drug purchases, as well as online consultations and offline follow-up treatment, thereby providing convenient, high-quality and efficient family doctor services. In April 2015, the App "Ping An Good Doctor" was officially launched. In May 2016, the Company completed an A round financing and raised US$500 million. In December 2017, the Company completed the pre-IPO financing from Softbank Vision Fund, during which it raised US$400 million. On 4 May 2018, Ping An Good Doctor became the No.1 listed internet health-tech company in the world when it joined the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, stock code 01833.HK. Our IPO cornerstone investors include Blackrock, Capital Group, GIC, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Swiss Re and CP Group. Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20181003/2256229-1 SOURCE Ping An Good Doctor [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] She was a total activist in every way possible, they said. She was a model for all. She showed an unending ability to make every call, knock on every door, post every yard sign and leave no task undone if it meant helping Democrats win and then govern fairly. [October 03, 2018] The Cansbridge Fellowship to Host Building Bridges Conference, Announces Launch of Fellow-Directed Venture Investment Vehicle and Initial Investments The Cansbridge Fellowship, an organization providing resources to high-impact undergraduate university students in Canada, announced today that it will be co-hosting the Building Bridges Conference in Vancouver with the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, a not-for-profit organization focused on strengthening Canada's relations with Asia. This event will take place Oct. 12-13, 2018, at the SFU Segal Building in Vancouver, Canada. The Building Bridges Conference will be the first of its kind, offering a cross-cultural management case study competition to 75 hand-picked Canadian post-secondary students. Throughout the day-long competition, students will have access to mentors and present their ideas to 160 delegates and four judges. Delegates will include business leaders, entrepreneurs, government officials, and thought leaders from all over Canada. Ross Kelley, Executive Director of the Cansbridge Fellowship, stated, "We are thrilled to be partnering with the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada in hosting the conference. During this unique event students will explore and offer solutions to real current problems faced by real companies in Asia. Winning teams will have their proposals sent directly to the companies in question whereby their ideas may be implemented." "With the very real and present shifts we are seeing in the global economy, a trend that is only gaining momentum, future opportunities for Canadian youth will lie in the Asia Pacific," said Stewart Beck, President and CEO of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. "The Cansbridge Fellowship, and particularly this first Building Bridges conference in Vancouver, will highlight those opportunities for Canada's leaders and innovators of tomorrow." Vivek Chachcha, chief event organizer, stated, "We are delighted by the response of the students and are grateful for the sponsorships from NEXT Canada, VanEdge Capital, Noah Holdings, AxiomZen, Kensington Capital Partners and the Western Economic Diversification of Canada." Cansbridge Fellows Launch Cansbridge Ventures I The Cansbridge Fellowship also announced that its Fellows have launched a self-directed venture investment vehicle called Cansbridge Ventures I, which has made investments in the following two entities: a. ESO Fund III, a San Francisco Bay Area-based venture capital fund that offers liquidity to existing and departing employees of venture backed companies (www.esofund.com) and; b. Reside Real Estate, a San Francisco Bay Area-based, venture-backed real estate brokerage firm that partners with the world's best agents (www.residebrokerage.com). Reside is founded by Guy Gal, a Canadian-born serial entrepreneur. Christopher Brooks, Chair of The Cansbridge Fellowship's Investment Organizing Committee, stated, "We are excited to provide our Fellows with the opportunity to manage and oversee this newly launched investment vehicle. They will be responsible for conducting due diligence on all potential investments and, in a supportive environment, get a first-hand learning experience in what it takes to successfully manage money and investments." About The Cansbridge Fellowship: Cansbridge Fellowship is an organization that provides extraordinary experiences and resources to its network of high-impact, leadership and results-oriented students and recent-grads. It aims to create a community of young Canadian professionals who share a love for adventure and entrepreneurship who will become the leaders of tomorrow. In its eight years of operation, the program has over 100 Fellows from across Canada taking on accelerated challenging careers all over the world. The Fellowship is 100% administered and run by its alumni. For more information, please visit www.cansbridgefellowship.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005292/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] H.I.G. Capital Completes Acquisition of Tecfil H.I.G. Capital, LLC ("H.I.G."), a leading global private equity investment firm with over $27 billion of equity capital under management, is pleased to announce that one of its affiliates has completed the acquisition of Sofape Fabricante de Filtros Ltda. ("Tecfil" or the "Company"), the leading automotive filters producer in Brazil, serving primarily the aftermarket segment. Tecfil has a long and successful 65-year history in the Brazilian market, as the undisputed market leader. Tecfil operates the largest filter manufacturing facility in Latin America, serving virtually all light and heavy-duty vehicles in Brazil under its two top-of-mind brands - Tecfil and Vox. Tecfil also exports to 27 countries in Latin America, North America and Europe. Fernando Marques Oliveira, Managing Director and Head of H.I.G. Brazil and Latin America, commented: "We are very pleased to have completed the acquisition of Tecfil. Abilio, Arthur and the management team have done an outstanding job in the last decade of building a truly unique aftermarket platform. We look forward to taking the Company to the next level and explore several growth opportunities that lay ahead of us." "We are very pleased to entrust Tecfil's future to H.I.G. Capital. H.I.G.'s solid track record and long-term view will add significant value to the Company founded by our grandfather, building on Tecfil's potential to become a leading aftermarket platform in auto parts manufacturing," said Abilio and Arthr Gurgel. About Tecfil Founded in 1953 and headquartered in Guarulhos/SP, Tecfil is the leading automotive filters producer in Brazil, focused on the aftermarket segment whilst also supplying the top automakers in Brazil. The Company sells over 3,000 SKUs under its 2 brands in nearly 30 countries. For more information visit www.tecfil.com.br. About H.I.G. Capital H.I.G. is a leading global private equity and alternative assets investment firm with over $27 billion of equity capital under management*. Based in Miami, and with offices in New York, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Atlanta in the U.S., as well as international affiliate offices in London, Hamburg, Madrid, Milan, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Bogota and Mexico City, H.I.G. specializes in providing both debt and equity capital to small and mid-sized companies, utilizing a flexible and operationally focused/value-added approach: 1. H.I.G.'s equity funds invest in management buyouts, recapitalizations and corporate carve-outs of both profitable as well as underperforming manufacturing and service businesses. 2. H.I.G.'s debt funds invest in senior, unitranche and junior debt financing to companies across the size spectrum, both on a primary (direct origination) basis, as well as in the secondary markets. H.I.G. is also a leading CLO manager, through its WhiteHorse family of vehicles, and manages a publicly traded BDC, WhiteHorse Finance. 3. H.I.G.'s real estate funds invest in value-added properties, which can benefit from improved asset management practices. Since its founding in 1993, H.I.G. has invested in and managed more than 300 companies worldwide. The firm's current portfolio includes more than 100 companies with combined sales in excess of $30 billion. For more information, please refer to the H.I.G. website at www.higcapital.com. *Based on total capital commitments managed by H.I.G. Capital and affiliates. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005480/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] FlowBelow Aero Inc. Invests in IQMS Manufacturing ERP Software to Support its Rapid Growth as a Tier-1 Supplier for Class 8 Trucks Paso Robles, CA, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- IQMS , a leading manufacturing ERP software and manufacturing execution system (MES) authority, today announced that FlowBelow Aero Inc. has selected IQMS to gain a 360-degree view of the business, enhance decision-making, and achieve greater efficiency across the operations of its expanding business. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, FlowBelow is the leading manufacturer of tractor-mounted aerodynamic products, including its patented quick-release wheel covers and fairings, which are designed to advance the fuel efficiency of modern trucking operations. The company is implementing IQMS EnterpriseIQ software, which uniquely combines robust enterprise resource planning (ERP) and MES functionality into one comprehensive system. The move to IQMS supports FlowBelows initiatives to use more accurate forecasting and production scheduling to set customer expectations and facilitate on-time delivery, as well as gain greater efficiency through integrated financials. Supporting Company Growth via Optimized Visibility and Operations FlowBelow has grown rapidly in the six years since the manufacturer founded the company and launched its flagship quick-release wheel covers for Class 8 trucks. Today, FlowBelow is a Tier-1 supplier to multiple major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and its fuel efficiency products are available for purchase through OEMs and their dealer networks across the United States and Canada. Initially, FlowBelow supported its operations using a combination of software products to manage its manufacturing, financials, sales and inventory. However, with the companys expansion has come the need to manage 500-plus part numbers as well as the purchase of thousands o fabricated parts. Not only has FlowBelows software been unable to scale to support this growth; the lack of product integration has hindered the business visibility. To support its next phase of growth, FlowBelow began reviewing several ERP and manufacturing solutions, quickly eliminating those offerings that would require the integration of multiple vendors products. An internal survey of FlowBelow employees led to a team member who had used IQMS in the past, and an evaluation of its integrated MES and ERP functionality led the manufacturer to select IQMS. We really liked the fact that the IQMS system had the complete functionality we needed, unlike other options that would have meant adding four or five more vendors to get the same features, said Evan Paradies, FlowBelow business systems manager. Equally important, the IQMS team spent the time getting to know our business, were open and honest, and thoroughly explained the major components of the system in a manner that all users could understand. FlowBelow is now implementing the IQMS system to improve key business processes and achieve a more disciplined approach overall. Among the companys top initiatives in using IQMS are employing real-time data for more accurate production scheduling and on-time delivery and taking advantage of capable-to-promise functionality to set expectations with customers. Additionally, FlowBelow gets electronic data interchange (EDI) feeds with six-month forecasts from its OEMS, and with IQMS, the company can become more automated and efficient in using this data for ordering, scheduling, and sales forecasting. Finally, the integrated financial capabilities of IQMS mean the company can avoid dual entry and readily get to costing. Overall, IQMS has been a pleasure to work with, Paradies notes. I am confident in our selection of IQMS and its ability to support the future growth of our rapidly expanding business. About FlowBelow Founded by mechanical and aerospace engineers, FlowBelow Aero Inc. seeks to advance the fuel efficiency of modern trucking operations with next-generation engineering and aerodynamics technology while creating green manufacturing jobs in the United States and reducing the significant environmental impact of the US trucking industry. In 2012, the Texas-based company launched its patented quick-release wheel covers, and its design is now the most widely used aerodynamic wheel cover by major trucking fleets and truck manufacturers. To learn more, visit https://www.flowbelow.com . About IQMS IQMS is a manufacturing software provider that uniquely combines ERP and MES functionality to give manufacturers a comprehensive end-to-end suite for running the business, backed by the real-time performance and scalability that companies demand. Developed specifically for mid-market repetitive, discrete and batch process manufacturers, IQMS provides robust capabilities for addressing strict customer and regulatory certification and compliance. IQMS achieves this by delivering traditional ERP functionality for accounting, sales orders, material requirements, inventory, and purchasing, plus extended native features for CRM, human resources, production scheduling, shop floor control, warehouse and quality modules. With offices across North America, Europe, and Asia, IQMS serves manufacturers around the world. For more information, please visit https://www.iqms.com . Engage with IQMS at: Website: IQMS.com Twitter: @IQMSerp LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/IQMS Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IQMSerp YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/IQMSerp Google+: https://plus.google.com/+IQMSerp Steve Bieszczat IQMS Chief Marketing Officer sbieszczat@iqms.com 805-227-1122 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Charlie Haase Joins Aetos Japan as Managing Director Aetos Japan LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aetos Capital Real Estate, LP (ACRE), an independent investment management firm focused on investment opportunities in Asian real estate markets, today announced that it has hired Charlie Haase as a Managing Director to support the firm's strategic business development efforts. Charlie will be based out of Tokyo, Japan, where he has been a resident for over six years. Mr. Haase has a broad track record in the real estate industry, concentrating on investment and portfolio management, asset management, and capital raising advisory activities. He has worked extensively with real estate managers, investors and operating platforms in the U.S. and international markets. Prior to joining Aetos Japan, Mr. Haase was General Manager with Tokyu Land Corporation's U.S. Planning Group where he assisted the company with their principal investment business. He also served on the Client Relations Team, working to bring outside capital into those investments. Mr. Haase was also a founding member of Tokyu Livable's Global Business Development Group, offering real estate services ad investment management to overseas clients, and facilitating investment in Japanese real estate by foreign investors. Prior to joining Tokyo Livable, Mr. Haase spent nearly nine years as a Real Estate Investment Officer for the California State Teachers' Retirement System. At CalSTRS, his responsibilities included real estate fund investments in the U.S., Europe, Asia and Latin America, as well as CalSTRS' directly held U.S. multifamily portfolio of more than 50,000 units. Scott Kelley, founder and CEO of ACRE, said, "We are fortunate to have someone of Charlie's experience and caliber join the firm. I have known Charlie for over fifteen years and have great respect for his capabilities. He brings significant experience and deep relationships throughout the institutional investing community and will be an important addition to our Japan team." Shinichiro No, Managing Director and Representative Director of Aetos Japan said, "We are extremely happy to have Charlie join us. As we continue to build our fund and separate account businesses, Charlie will be an invaluable resource." Mr. Haase has been an Assistant Professor of Economics at San Francisco State University, and a Visiting Lecturer in Economics at the University of California at Berkeley. Mr. Haase holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of California at Davis. About Aetos Capital Real Estate, LP Aetos Capital Real Estate, LP (ACRE), an independent privately-held investment management firm, was founded in 2001 by CEO Scott Kelley. ACRE is one of the leading firms in the Asian region, having sponsored four funds and numerous separate accounts with capital commitments of approximately US$3.8 billion, and having acquired more than US$10 billion of real estate in Japan, Greater China and South Korea. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005238/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Leaders from Microsoft Search Advertising, Bing, and Cortana to Speak at Yext's ONWARD18 Conference NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Yext, Inc. (NYSE: YEXT), the leader in Digital Knowledge Management (DKM), today announced that David Pann, General Manager, Microsoft Search Advertising, Christi Olson, Chief Evangelist, Search for Bing, and Dr. Ed Doran, Co-Founder of Cortana and Director of Program Management for MSR Artificial Intelligence at Microsoft, will speak at Yext's ONWARD18 annual conference Oct. 23-25, 2018 at Jazz at Lincoln Center's Frederick P. Rose Hall in New York City. "Microsoft is at the forefront of the most transformative innovations in intelligent technology today, from AI-powered search to the growth of voice," said Howard Lerman, Founder and CEO of Yext. "We're excited to have three experts from Microsoft joining us at ONWARD18 to educate and inspire our guests with their insights on the rise of intelligence." Speakers from Microsoft will join three ONWARD18 sessions: Pann will sit down with Wendi Sturgis , Chief Clent Officer at Yext, for a fireside chat. As General Manager, Microsoft Search Advertising, Pann manages all global marketing functions for Bing Ads, including advertiser insights and analysis, business and product strategy, and technology partnerships. , Chief Clent Officer at Yext, for a fireside chat. As General Manager, Microsoft Search Advertising, Pann manages all global marketing functions for Bing Ads, including advertiser insights and analysis, business and product strategy, and technology partnerships. Olson will join a panel discussion called AI & Digital Knowledge Management on the rapid rise of AI and the impact of these interconnected topics on real-world business outcomes. on the rapid rise of AI and the impact of these interconnected topics on real-world business outcomes. Doran will join a panel called Voice: A Look Ahead, on the exploding popularity of voice assistants, their impact on the future of marketing, and whether we're headed for a "voice-first" future. Visit ONWARD18.com to see the latest agenda and learn more. About Yext Yext, Inc. (NYSE: YEXT) is the leading Digital Knowledge Management (DKM) platform. Yext's mission is to give companies control over their brand experiences across the digital universe of maps, apps, search engines, voice assistants, and other intelligent services that drive consumer discovery, decision, and action. Today, thousands of businesses including brands like Taco Bell, Rite Aid, and Steward Health Care use the Yext Knowledge Engine to manage their digital knowledge in order to boost brand engagement, drive foot traffic, and increase sales. Yext has been named a Best Place to Work by Fortune and Great Place to Work as well as a Best Workplace for Women. Yext is headquartered in New York City with offices in Berlin, Chicago, Dallas, Geneva, London, Paris, Tyson's Corner, San Francisco, Shanghai, and Tokyo. For more information, visit www.yext.com . View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/leaders-from-microsoft-search-advertising-bing-and-cortana-to-speak-at-yexts-onward18-conference-300723704.html SOURCE Yext, Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] New Housing Report: L.A.'s High Housing Prices Threaten to Stifle Region's Fastest-Growing Industries, Including Tourism, Healthcare and Food Services A relentless rise in housing costs is hurting Los Angeles' fastest-growing industries by making it significantly harder to recruit and retain workers. Yet most employers have not taken steps to assist employees with housing or implement programs to reduce their financial burdens, according to a new study released today by the USC Price Center for Social Innovation. The report, The Affordable Housing Crisis in Los Angeles: Impacts to LA's Fastest Growing Companies, was released in partnership with the Los Angeles Business Council Institute and examines how the high cost of living in Los Angeles is impacting local industries experiencing the most job growth. "Housing affordability is a significant concern for the Los Angeles workforce," said Dr. Gary Painter, director of the USC Sol Price Center for Social Innovation and the newly created Homelessness Policy Research Institute. "Commute times are increasing for homeowners who are unable to afford housing in the L.A. region, and housing costs are outpacing wage growth for renters. These conditions are especially burdensome for the region's entry-level and low-wage workers. "Without direct and decisive action by employers to help their employees, we risk a situation where the rapid growth of our regional economy stalls and then stagnates as workers leave and pursue employment options elsewhere," said Painter. The Price Center's report examined how the housing crisis is affecting employers in the region's three fastest-growing sectors: health care and social services; accommodation and food services; and professional, scientific and technical services. The study found that wages in these three sectors are not keeping pace with the region's soaring housing costs and that commute times for workers in these industries are rising across the board - results that raise concerns about whether the region's current job growth is sustainable in the long run. As one example, L.A.'s booming tourism industry now acounts for more than 525,000 local jobs, yet 69 percent of workers in this sector earn less than $25,000 annually. A similar situation exists in the field of home health aides, where the median annual wage is $22,600, forcing a large portion of these workers to live in poverty. "This trend is extremely worrisome because there will be a breaking point for employees forced to choose between sky-high rents, substandard conditions or long commutes - and they are likely to pick getting out of L.A.," said Mary Leslie, president of LABC. "As a business community, we need to acknowledge that housing is not a siloed issue - it has a domino effect far beyond the housing market. To ensure continued success, employers should factor the cost of housing into their overall business strategy, in tandem with wages and traditional benefits." While most employers report that the high cost of housing is having a profoundly negative impact on employee recruitment, retention and quality of life, 61 percent of respondents said they didn't have any programs in place to help reduce their employees' housing burden. Just over half were unaware that housing-related assistance was a possible solution. However, companies that have taken steps to assist employees in reducing their financial burdens, such as sweetening hiring packages, reported more success maintaining their workforce. To ease employees' financial burdens, The Affordable Housing Crisis in Los Angeles recommends that businesses provide a series of resources that are relatively low cost but carry high returns. Chief among them are homebuyer education, relocation reimbursement, mortgage assistance and financial education. The report also urges businesses to factor the cost of housing into their broader corporate strategy, influencing decisions on compensation, benefits packages and company policies, such as telecommuting or flexible hours. On a policy level, the report encourages employers to seize opportunities to support and advocate for housing at all income levels and help build bridges between private, nonprofit and public entities to address housing costs. "Frequently, employers are surprised to find that their employees have qualified to purchase a home through Habitat for Humanity. They are unaware their own employees and coworkers are struggling to find adequate and affordable housing," said Erin Rank, president & CEO at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles. "Through this report, we are encouraging businesses to have a conversation with their employees about the state of housing they experience in an effort to understand the basic needs of their workers and develop a plan of action." The Affordable Housing Crisis in Los Angeles: Impacts to LA's Fastest Growing Companies will be formally released Friday at the Los Angeles Business Council's 17th Annual Mayoral Housing, Transportation and Jobs Summit, held at UCLA. The event will feature panels of experts in housing and transportation policy; leaders in technology and business; and elected officials, including State Attorney General Xavier Becerra, Mayor Eric Garcetti, Sen. Scott Wiener, Assemblymember Laura Freidman and Assemblymember David Chiu. The Los Angeles Business Council and the USC Price Center for Social Innovation conducted the survey with the support of the California Community Foundation, Enterprise Community Partners, Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, FivePoint and Habitat for Humanity. More than 18 employers representing over 84,000 employees participated in the study. About the Los Angeles Business Council The Los Angeles Business Council is one of the most effective and influential advocacy and educational organizations in California. For over 70 years, the LABC has had a major impact on public policy by harnessing the power of business and government to promote environmental and economic sustainability in the Los Angeles region. To learn more, please visit www.labusinesscouncil.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005576/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Nearmap Offers Complete Aerial Map Measurement Tools for Solar and Roofing Industries Nearmap, a premium global location content provider specializing in high-resolution aerial maps, today introduced a complete measurement toolset in MapBrowser for the solar, roofing and other rooftop industries. The new tools allow users to measure roof-pitch, height, width and area, enabling roofers and solar installers to confidently measure rooftops and structures from high-resolution oblique aerial images. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005645/en/ New Nearmap MapBrowser provides roof-pitch, height, width and area tools to help companies measure rooftops and structures without onsite inspections. (Photo: Business Wire) The new MapBrowser helps customers significantly reduce onsite visits during the quoting and planning stages of projects and complements their remote roof/site inspection workflows, giving many small businesses the power of expensive systems that only large companies use. Tony Agresta, Executive Vice President of Product, Nearmap, said, "Gone are the days of climbing on roofs to take measurements. Delivered to the cloud within days of capture, our aerial imagery allws roofers, solar companies and other small businesses to carry out assessments from the comfort of their office. Once the domain of large companies, the new features provide businesses of all shapes and sizes with the tools they need to save time, plan and estimate more accurately at a fraction of the price." Using Nearmap's new tools, roofers and solar companies will be able to: Prospect more efficiently by viewing and expanding opportunities through aerial maps instead of other, more traditional ways. Process leads more quickly by qualifying prospects prior to visiting a potential job. Reduce costs associated with the qualification and proposal stages. Create better proposals using up-to-date, high-resolution photos, giving companies a better chance at winning a client's business. Close more sales with the most accurate and competitive quotes. Increase revenue without adding systems or headcount. Businesses in construction, home building, painting, insurance and other industries can also benefit from these new tools to accurately measure areas on properties in three dimensions. Nearmap's aerial imagery can help users to show context for work being done, and the imagery can be annotated with notes, drawings and measurements that provide details of the plan. Nearmap Oblique imagery can be accessed through a standard web browser using Nearmap's intuitive MapBrowser application. In addition, Nearmap Oblique photos are published at sub-7.5cm Ground Sampling Distance (GSD)-better than satellite imagery-which allows users to see great detail. About Nearmap Nearmap brings the real world to you. Nearmap delivers high-resolution aerial imagery as a service to businesses across the world, powered by industry-leading geospatial mapping technology. Using its own patented camera systems and processing software, Nearmap captures wide-scale urban areas in the U.S., Australia and New Zealand multiple times each year, making fresh content instantly available in the cloud via web app or API integration. Every day, Nearmap helps thousands of users conduct virtual site visits for deep, data-driven insights-enabling informed decisions, streamlined operations and robust bottom lines. Founded in Australia in 2007, Nearmap is one of the ten largest aerial survey companies in the world by annual data collection volume and is publicly listed in the ASX 300. View a current project in Nearmap today. For more information, visit https://go.nearmap.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005645/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Private Ocean CEO Greg Friedman Named "CEO of the Year" at 2018 WealthManagement.com Industry Awards Private Ocean Wealth Management, a West Coast based wealth management firm, congratulates Greg Friedman on his recent recognition as CEO of the Year by WealthManagement.com, the leading resource for wealth advisors and planners. The winners for the 2018 Annual WealthManagement.com Industry Awards were announced at a black-tie gala on September 13, 2018 at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City. Judges presented 67 awards to 59 companies from a pool of 156 finalists. There were 600 entries in total and winners were selected by a panel of eight judges based on quantitative and qualitative measures, including scope and scale and innovation and creativity. Now in its fourth year, the Awards honor outstanding achievements by companies and organizations that support financial advisor success. Te awards expanded this year to recognize individual RIA firm leaders-including CEO, innovator, M&A leader and thought leader of the year. For CEO of the Year, the criteria for nominated leaders included: Courage, vision, integrity and high performance in leading their firm through new challenges and opportunities this past year Demonstrable impact on their firm, the industry, and wealth management in general such as adding customer value, generating shareholder value, employee engagement, and leadership development By recognizing outstanding achievement in the industry, the WealthManagement.com Industry Awards strives to inspire innovation and leadership among industry participants, creating an environment that enables the industry to better support advisors in their roles as leaders to their clients and communities. For more information, visit WealthManagement.com and follow Private Ocean on Twitter (News - Alert) @_privateocean. About Private Ocean Private Ocean is a West Coast-based wealth management firm deliberately structured to give clients the intimate experience of a small firm while harnessing the power, depth and discipline of a much larger one. Formed in 2009, Private Ocean (www.privateocean.com) combined two of the oldest privately-held wealth management firms in the San Francisco Bay Area. Founded by Richard Stone and Greg Friedman, the firm has over $2.2 billion in assets under management as of September 30, 2018, and has locations in San Rafael, San Francisco, Walnut Creek and Seattle. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005091/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Canada and Saskatchewan making significant investments to improve the lives of residents New agreement signed to support infrastructure projects and strengthen communities across the province REGINA, Oct. 3, 2018 /CNW/ - The Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan are working together to make long-term infrastructure investments that will create jobs, boost the economy and enhance people's quality of life. Today, the Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and the Honourable Gordon Wyant, Minister Responsible for SaskBuilds, were joined by the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, and the Honourable Warren Kaeding, Minister of Government Relations, to announce the signing of a bilateral agreement that will provide more than $896 million in federal funding through the Investing in Canada plan over the next decade for infrastructure projects. These projects will be cost-shared with the Saskatchewan government, municipalities and other partners. This new funding will see the federal and provincial governments make unprecedented investments in public transit, green infrastructure, recreational, cultural, and community infrastructure, as well as rural and northern communities. These investments will bring many benefits to people across Saskatchewan, including: faster commutes and travel times and easier movement of goods for businesses; cleaner air and water; reduced greenhouse gas emissions; smarter more efficient cities; sustainable water management; enhanced public parks, recreational facilities and other spaces that make communities great places to live; and better transportation and digital infrastructure for people living in remote communities. More than $33 billion in federal funding is being invested across Canada through these bilateral agreements. Provinces and territories are asked to develop three-year plans on how they will implement their infrastructure projects. Quotes "Long-term investments in infrastructure connect people, create good middle-class jobs and support our economy. This new agreement with Saskatchewan will provide long-term predictable funding to meet the needs of all residents, from those living in busy city centres to remote rural towns. I am very pleased that this also marks the successful conclusion of our negotiations with all the provinces and territories on these agreements. Together with our partners, we are making strategic investments in infrastructure across Saskatchewan and the country to build prosperous resilient communities where everyone has opportunities to succeed." The Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities "Infrastructure is the backbone of our communities and our economy. Today's announcement represents a decade-long commitment to investing in priority projects that address Saskatchewan's unique infrastructure needs, protect and improve communities' health and safety, support Saskatchewan's competitiveness and create significant employment and business opportunities for Saskatchewan's construction sector and workers. Today's agreement also supports Saskatchewan's ability to ensure funding is directed where it is most needed, through the ability to pursue future flexibility within and between funding streams." The Honourable Gordon Wyant, Q.C., Minister Responsible for SaskBuilds Quick facts Under the Investing in Canada plan, the Government of Canada is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada's rural and northern communities. plan, the Government of is investing more than over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and rural and northern communities. Under the first phase of the plan, Infrastructure Canada has approved more than 3,500 projects across Canada worth a combined investment of more than $9.9 billion , including more than 120 projects worth more than $234 million in Saskatchewan . worth a combined investment of more than , including more than 120 projects worth more than in . As part of the plan, Infrastructure Canada will deliver $33 billion over the next decade through new bilateral agreements with provinces and territories under four funding streams: over the next decade through new bilateral agreements with provinces and territories under four funding streams: $20.1 billion for public transit; for public transit; $9.2 billion for green infrastructure; for green infrastructure; $1.3 billion for community, cultural and recreational infrastructure; and for community, cultural and recreational infrastructure; and $2 billion for wide-ranging infrastructure needs in rural and northern communities. for wide-ranging infrastructure needs in rural and northern communities. The federal cost-share under the rural and northern infrastructure stream was increased from 50% to 60% on February 16, 2018 . With this increase, provincial communities with fewer than 5,000 residents will be eligible to receive a higher proportion of federal funding to address their unique infrastructure needs. Indigenous communities in the provinces will be eligible for a federal cost share of up to 75%. . With this increase, provincial communities with fewer than 5,000 residents will be eligible to receive a higher proportion of federal funding to address their unique infrastructure needs. Indigenous communities in the provinces will be eligible for a federal cost share of up to 75%. This marks the 13th and final new long-term infrastructure agreement the Government of Canada has signed with provincial and territorial partners. Related product Backgrounder Canada and Saskatchewan making significant investments to improve the lives of residents New agreement signed to support infrastructure projects and strengthen communities across the province Under the $180-billion Investing in Canada infrastructure plan, the Government of Canada is signing new ten-year bilateral agreements with all provinces and territories that will see more than $33 billion in federal funding invested in infrastructure projects across the country. The objective of these investments is to transform the way Canadians live, move and work across four priority areas: Public transit; Green infrastructure; Community, culture, and recreation infrastructure; and Rural and northern communities. Saskatchewan will receive a total of $896,323,007 from Canada from 2018 to 2028 through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) agreement. Allocations by funding stream Funding Stream Allocation Expected Outcomes at Project Completion* Public Transit $307,871,025 to build new urban transit networks and service extensions that will transform the way Canadians live, move and work. Improved capacity of public transit infrastructure Improved quality and safety of existing and future transit systems Improved access to public transit systems Green Infrastructure $416,334,673 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; enable greater adaptation and resilience to the impacts of climate change and climate-related disaster mitigation; and ensure that more communities can provide residents with clean air and safe drinking water. Increased capacity to manage more renewable energy Increased access to clean energy transportation Increased energy efficiency of buildings Increased generation of clean energy Increased structural capacity and increased natural capacity to adapt to climate change impacts, natural disasters and extreme weather events Increased capacity to treat and manage wastewater and storm water Increased access to potable water Increased capacity to reduce or remediate soil and air pollutants Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure $56,211,382 to build stronger more inclusive communities with enhanced community, cultural and recreational infrastructure. Improved access to and increased quality of community, cultural and recreational infrastructure for Canadians, including Indigenous Peoples and vulnerable populations Rural and Northern Communities Infrastructure $115,905,927 for projects to improve the quality of life in rural and northern communities by responding to their specific needs. Improved food security Improved and more reliable road, air and marine infrastructure Improved broadband connectivity More efficient and reliable energy Improved education and health facilities that benefit Indigenous peoples (specific to Truth and Reconciliation Commission) * Outcomes will be obtained through projects, which will be communicated in more detail as they are announced. The bilateral agreements will allow the Government of Canada and the provinces and territories to agree on shared results as well as a method of regular reporting on results. The bilateral agreements support the following long-term goals: increase economic growth in an inclusive sustainable way; improve environmental quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase the resiliency of communities against climate change; improve mobility in Canadian communities; make Canadian communities more inclusive and accessible; and manage infrastructure in a more sustainable way. Under these new bilateral agreements, the Government of Canada will also open the door to unique innovative project ideas that meet the agreed-upon outcomes and contribute to the long-term sustainability of our infrastructure. To ensure partners consider opportunities to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions or better adapt to climate change during the project development stage, a new climate lens will be applied to certain projects. Partners will also report on how larger projects are creating job opportunities for a broader array of Canadians in the construction industry and related sectors through a new Community Employment Benefits framework. For information on cost-sharing, please see Infrastructure Canada's website. Associated links Government of Canada's $180-billion+ Investing in Canada plan: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/about-invest-apropos-eng.html Investing in Canada Plan Project Map: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/map Federal infrastructure investments in Saskatchewan: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/map-carte/sk-eng.html Twitter: @INFC_eng Web: Infrastructure Canada SOURCE Infrastructure Canada [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Passware: The First to Recover Bitcoin Wallet Passwords MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Passware, Inc., a provider of password recovery, decryption, and electronic evidence discovery software for computer forensics, announces Passware Kit recovers passwords for popular Bitcoin wallet services: Blockchain.com (known previously as Blockchain.info) and Bitcoin Core. Bitcoin is the first and number one ranked decentralized peer-to-peer digital payment network that is powered by its users with no central authority or middlemen (Resources: https://bitcoin.org/en/faq#general and https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/bitcoin/). When Bitcoin Wallet Passwords are Lost or Forgotten According to Blockchain.com support, they cannot help their users regain access to their wallets if they have lost or forgotten their passwords. "This is because we don't have access to your wallet or your wallet password." When bitcoins are lost, unless the user recalls or recovers their password, they "remain dormant forever as there is no way to uncover the private key(s) that would allow them to be spent again." "Law enforcement worldwide recognizes that cryptocurrency gives criminals nearly unlimited access to anonymous money movement," claims Dmitry Sumin, CEO of Passware. "For computer forensics investigating cases of contraband trnsactions, extortion, money laundering, and tax evasion these areas are the primary areas of criminal activity involved in cryptocurrency exchange. In addition, Bitcoin makes theft of the cryptocurrency easy for criminals. With no central customer hotline or way to force a password reset, recovering suspects' passwords was nearly impossible until the latest release of Passware Kit." How it Works To recover the password, Passware Kit needs the wallet file, which typically is named wallet.aes.json (for Blockchain.com wallet) or wallet.dat (for Bitcoin Core wallet), and is normally stored on a suspect's computer or can be downloaded from the wallet site. The software achieves the speed of 500,000 passwords per second on a single graphics processing unit (GPU). This speed is further accelerated with use of distributed computing (the Passware Kit Forensic license includes five Passware Kit Agents). Other features of Passware Kit Forensic 2018 v2 include: instant decryption of Apple File System (APFS) disks via analysis of iCloud or iTunes backups; password removal for QuickBooks 2018 databases; acquisition of iOS 12.0 backups from iCloud; improvements to core Passware Kit modules: Encryption Analyzer and Dictionary attack. Passware's solution is designed for computer forensics and crime investigators and is included exclusively in the Forensic edition of the Passware Kit. Although available for purchase by anyone, its pricing is expected to regulate the target audience. Pricing and Availability Passware Kit Forensic is available directly from Passware and a network of resellers worldwide. The price is $995 with one year of free updates. Additional product information and screen shots are available at http://www.passware.com/pkf. About Passware, Inc. Founded in 1998, Passware, Inc. is the worldwide leading maker of password recovery, decryption, and electronic evidence discovery software. Law enforcement and government agencies, institutions, corporations and private investigators, help desk personnel, and thousands of private consumers rely on Passware software products to ensure data availability in the event of lost passwords. Passware customer include many Fortune 500 companies; worldwide police agencies; federal, state and local government agencies, such as the IRS, NASA, Boeing, US Department of Defense (DOD), US Department of Justice, US Department of Homeland Security. IT and forensic professionals and tens of thousands of businesses and private users turn to Passware for their password problems. Passware is a privately held corporation with its headquarters in Mountain View, Calif. More information about Passware, Inc. is available at http://www.passware.com/. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/passware-the-first-to-recover-bitcoin-wallet-passwords-300723723.html SOURCE Passware, Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] FEMA officials estimated that about 225 million devices would receive the alert at about the same time, but the message was broadcast by cell towers for 30 minutes so some people got it later than others. Some got as many as four alerts on their phones; others didn't get any. [October 03, 2018] NASA, Israel Space Agency Sign Agreement for Commercial Lunar Cooperation WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA has signed an agreement with the Israel Space Agency (ISA) to cooperatively utilize the Israeli nonprofit SpaceIL's commercial lunar mission, expected to land on the Moon in 2019. NASA will contribute a laser retroreflector array to aid with ground tracking and Deep Space Network support to aid in mission communication. ISA and SpaceIL will share data with NASA from the SpaceIL lunar magnetometer installed aboard the spacecraft. The instrument, which was developed in collaboration with the Weizmann Institute of Science, will measure the magnetic field on and above the landing site. The data will be made publicly available through NASA's Planetary Data System. In addition, NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter will attemp to take scientific measurements of the SpaceIL lander as it lands on the Moon. The agreement was signed by NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine and Avi Blasberger, Director of the Israel Space Agency. Dr. Ido Anteby, CEO of SpaceIL, was also present. "I'm thrilled to extend progress in commercial cooperation we've made in low-Earth orbit to the lunar environment with this new agreement with the Israel Space Agency and SpaceIL," said NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine. "Innovative partnerships like this are going to be essential as we go forward to the Moon and create new opportunities there." SpaceIL competed in the Google Lunar X Prize, and continues to work toward landing the first Israeli spacecraft on the Moon. Together, NASA and SpaceIL will collaborate on analyzing the scientific data returned from the mission. The agreement exemplifies the innovative approach that NASA and its international partners are taking to team up with commercial partners to advance important science and exploration objectives on and around the Moon. For more information about NASA and agency programs, visit: https://www.nasa.gov View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nasa-israel-space-agency-sign-agreement-for-commercial-lunar-cooperation-300723806.html SOURCE NASA [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] ORIX Mezzanine & Private Equity Backs Onward Capital with Equity Investment in FSC Lighting ORIX Mezzanine & Private Equity, a business unit of ORIX Corporation USA, announced today that it has made an equity investment in partnership with Chicago-based private equity investor Onward Capital to facilitate the acquisition of FSC Lighting (FSC). ORIX Mezzanine & Private Equity is a leading equity capital partner for independent sponsors throughout North America. "We are pleased to invest equity alongside Onward Capital in the acquisition of FSC, a manufacturer of energy-efficient LED lighting solutions," said Jeff Sangalis, head of ORIX Mezzanine & Private Equity. "Since our formation in 2012, 28 of our 36 platform investments have been with independent sponsors. We rely on sophisticated partners like Onward Capital, which has extensive experience investing in and growing lower middle-market manufacturing and value-added distribution businesses, to manage the investments in which we provide equity." Laura Lester, partner at Onward Capital, said, "ORIX's flexible equity capital and junior debt solution allowed us to complete the transaction smoothly. FSC's reputation for innovative lighting solutions and outstanding customer service is unparalleled, and we look forward to working with the management team to enter new market segments, develop new products and build upon the company's success." FSC makes and assembles customized, energy-efficient lighting solutions for industrial, commercial and retail clients across the country. FSC's continued success stems from its mission: "go beyond efficiency." For clients, this means providing comprehensive product support, fast and cost-efficient customization, advanced controls and innovative, application-specific lighting solutions. For employees and the community at large, going beyond efficiency means building a supportive, stable and empowering work environment. One example: the company's "Made Wit Care" program, which integrates developmentally disabled adults into the workforce. "We're thrilled to join forces with Onward Capital and its investors," said John Watkins, president of FSC. "We've been looking for partners who would support our growth, share our vision for the company and enable us to continue to provide the stellar customer experience our clients have come to expect. FSC is now positioned to do this on an even greater scale." Tecum Capital led the mezzanine debt financing, and TCF Capital Funding-a division of TCF National Bank-provided senior debt financing in support of the acquisition. About ORIX Mezzanine & Private Equity ORIX Mezzanine & Private Equity, a business unit of ORIX Corporation USA (ORIX USA), expands alternatives for lower-mid to middle-market companies throughout North America by offering standalone equity investments (control and non-control), flexible mezzanine capital or a combination of the two strategies. Investments are predominantly with independent sponsors and also include investments with funded equity sponsors, family offices, and directly with entrepreneurs and management teams. Typical investments are initially in the $10 million to $20 million range with the ability to further grow to support our clients' success. Providing innovative capital solutions to clients since 1981, ORIX USA and its family of companies have $63 billion of assets under management, administration and servicing (including more than $10 billion held by the company and its subsidiaries). Its parent company, ORIX Corporation, is a publicly owned international financial services company with operations in 38 countries and regions worldwide. ORIX Corporation is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (8591) and New York Stock Exchange (IX). For more information visit www.orix.com or www.orixmpe.com. About Onward Capital LLC Onward Capital is a Chicago-based private equity firm focused on investing in and growing lower middle-market industrial businesses. The Onward Partners have completed over 120 private equity transactions and invested $1 billion of capital in the sector. Onward targets manufacturing and value-added distribution companies, typically with revenues between $15 million and $100 million. For more information on Onward Capital, please visit www.onwardcapllc.com. About FSC Lighting FSC Lighting manufactures energy-efficient LED lighting for commercial, industrial and retail customers. Founded in 1969 and committed to going beyond efficiency every day, FSC's cutting-edge energy-efficient products can be quickly customized or shipped as is for lighting retrofit projects and new construction. For more information on FSC Lighting, please visit www.fsclighting.com. About Tecum Capital With over $500 million of assets under management, Tecum Capital is a Pittsburgh-based investment firm investing private capital in lower middle-market companies. Tecum provides mezzanine debt and equity investments across a variety of industries. Our team partners with independent sponsors, family offices, business owners seeking succession plans and management teams to create shared success. Since 2006, the team has invested in over 80 platform and add-on acquisitions. Tecum is predominantly focused on stable middle-market businesses with EBITDA in excess of $3 million. Tecum seeks to invest $5 million to $18 million in potential portfolio companies. For more information, please visit www.tecum.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005792/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Government of Canada invests in clean technology to create well-paying green jobs Minister Bains announces $58.6 million to support 14 Canadian companies through Sustainable Development Technology Canada OTTAWA, Oct. 3, 2018 /CNW/ - Across Canada, companies on the leading edge of innovation and job creation are advancing clean technologies across all sectors of the economy and finding new ways to solve the world's environmental challenges. That's good for everyone: clean technologies can create well-paying jobs that will support the Canadian economy and help Canada meet its climate change goals. Today, the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, announced $58.6 million in funding to 14 Canadian clean technology companies. These projects are being funded through Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC), which works with Canadian companies to bring clean technologies to market. The funding announced today includes support for projects in Quebec on using innovative touch technologies for people to interact with computer applications; reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the concrete industry; rehabilitating water mains; and better managing lithium-ion batteries. It also includes support for projects in Ontario on micro-LED energy technology, alumina recovery and more power-efficient cloud-based data centres. In western Canada, SDTC is supporting projects on machine learning for pumping from oil and gas wells; automation to help wind farms optimize power production; a biopesticide for use in Canadian agricultural markets; renewable canola seed oil for replacing petrochemicals in commonly used products like cushions and running shoes; and data and machine learning to improve tree fruit and nut crops while using less water and reducing grenhouse gas emissions. The investments announced today align with recommendations received from industry leaders in the Clean Technology Economic Strategy Tables to address gaps in scale-up finance that will accelerate the growth of Canadian clean technology companies. Investments in clean technology are also part of the Government's Innovation and Skills Plan, a multi-year strategy that is positioning Canada to be a global centre for innovation, creating good middle-class jobs right across the country. Quotes "Our government supports the researchers, entrepreneurs and investors that make Canada a global leader in the growing clean technology market. These are the people who are creating the next wave of good, well-paying jobs for Canadians while protecting our clean air, water and food for generations to come." The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development "This is an exciting milestone for the Canadian cleantech companies that are working tirelessly to develop ground-breaking technology solutions. Our team at Sustainable Development Technology Canada dedicated 20172018 to operating at the speed of business to better support Canadian cleantech developers. We made it simpler and more streamlined for companies to access financing, execute projects and move into the markets where they can shift from start-up to scale-up." Leah Lawrence, President and CEO, Sustainable Development Technology Canada Quick facts Sustainable Development Technology Canada helps Canadian entrepreneurs develop and demonstrate new environmental technologies that address climate change, clean air, clean water and clean soil. Budget 2017 provided over $2.3 billion to help clean technology firms grow and expand. This includes investments of nearly $1.4 billion in new financing through the Business Development Bank of Canada and Export Development Canada. to help clean technology firms grow and expand. This includes investments of nearly in new financing through the Business Development Bank of and Export Development Canada. The Government has also made available $400 million to recapitalize Sustainable Development Technology Canada's SD Tech Fund, which supports the development and demonstration of early-stage clean technology projects. to recapitalize Sustainable Development Technology Canada's SD Tech Fund, which supports the development and demonstration of early-stage clean technology projects. Global experts expect the clean technology market to grow to $2.5 trillion by 2022. Associated links Report from Canada's Economic Strategy Tables: The Innovation and Competitiveness Imperative Economic Strategy Tables: The Innovation and Competitiveness Imperative Backgrounder 14 Canadian clean technology companies receiving funding Follow Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on Twitter: @ISED_CA SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Liza Landsman Joins Applause Board of Directors Applause, the worldwide leader in crowdsourced digital quality, today announced that Liza Landsman, former president of Jet.com, has been appointed to its board of directors, effective immediately. Landsman joins the board during a period of rapid advancement for Applause. Just one year since its acquisition by Vista Equity Partners, Applause has accelerated revenue growth and expanded its community to more than 400,000 software experts. Digital transformation is at the heart of this latest growth phase. Leading brands and enterprises rely on Applause crowd testing to ensure the quality of digital experiences for all consumers and users. Landsman's appointment further establishes Applause as the number one destination for software testing in the digital economy. "I'm delighted to welcome Liza to our board," said Doron Reuveni, CEO of Applause. "Jet.com was an early adopter of Applause and remains one of our long-standing customers. Liza has an impressive track record of leading companies through rapid growth as well as deep knowledge of how analytics can perfect digital and physical experiences across all channels." Under her leadership at Jet.com, Landsman employed new brand engagement and quantitative marketing strategies that transformed the company from a startup to a $1 billion run-rate business. Prior to Jet.com, Landsman was chief marketing officer and a member of the executive committee at E*TRADE Financial, global head of digital for BlackRock, and a leader at both Citigroup and IBM (News - Alert) . Today, Landsman is a venture partner at NEA and sits on th boards of two public companies, Veritiv Corporation (NYSE:VTRV) and Choice Hotels International (NYSE:CHH). "I'm truly thrilled to be joining the Applause board," said Landsman. "Crowd testing is a critical element to ensuring websites, apps, and in-store technologies meet customer expectations. At Jet.com, I witnessed first-hand how a large digital footprint and focus on quality affect company outcomes. I look forward to partnering with the Applause team to continue improving digital quality for companies worldwide." Landsman has received recognition for her outstanding leadership and expertise throughout her career, having been included on Fortune's Most Powerful Women "Ones to Watch" list, Chain Store Age's "Top 10 Women in Retail Tech," and Total Retail's 2018 "Top Women in Retail." "Liza's public company experience will be invaluable as Applause continues its upward trajectory," said Martin Taylor, operating principal at Vista Equity Partners and Director at Applause. "Her digital pedigree and extensive understanding of how users and customers interact with enterprises and brands through their digital assets will help Applause make further inroads with both chief digital and chief marketing officers." Landsman's board appointment reinforces Applause as a digital quality leader. In addition to strong revenue and customer growth, Applause is the first and only crowd testing provider listed in the Gartner (News - Alert) Magic Quadrant for Application Testing Services, Worldwide. With Landsman's board membership and these latest accomplishments, Applause will continue to excel as the leader in crowd-sourced digital quality. About Applause Applause is the worldwide leader in crowd-sourced digital quality testing. Software is at the heart of how all brands engage users, and digital experiences must work flawlessly everywhere. With 400,000+ testers available on-demand around the globe, Applause provides brands with a full suite of testing and feedback capabilities. This approach drastically improves testing coverage, eliminates the limitations of offshoring and traditional QA labs, and speeds time-to-market for websites, mobile apps, IoT, voice apps and in-store experiences. Thousands of leading companies - including Ford, FOX, Google (News - Alert) , and Dow Jones - rely on Applause as a best practice to deliver high quality digital experiences that customers demand. Learn more at www.applause.com. About Vista Equity Partners Vista Equity Partners, a U.S.-based investment firm with offices in Austin, San Francisco, Chicago, and Oakland, currently invests in software, data and technology-enabled organizations led by world-class management teams with long-term perspectives. Vista is a value-added investor, contributing professional expertise and multi-level support towards companies' realization of their full potential. Vista's investment approach is anchored by a sizable long-term capital base, experience in structuring technology-oriented transactions, and proven management techniques that yield flexibility and opportunity in private equity investing. For more information, please visit www.vistaequitypartners.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005806/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Datalogic Celebrates 40 years in the North American Market with Opening of brand new office in Las Colinas, Texas DALLAS, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Datalogic, a global leader in the automatic data capture and process automation markets, celebrated the opening of a brand new office at Las Colinas, in the Dallas area, it's sixth location in the United States, that will serve as a business development hub for the North America Market. Headquartered in Italy, with offices in five locations across the U.S. - Telford (PA), Eugene (OR), Minneapolis (MN), Pasadena (CA) and Charlotte (NC)- Datalogic has an important and long history, tracing back to the first bar code scanner ever used in a retail store to scan a pack of Wrigley's chewing gum in 1974 in Troy, Ohio, now on display at the Smithsonian Museum of American History. The Dallas office opening is a testament not only to Datalogic's growth in the United States (where the company already employs over 500 people and has four R&D centers), but also to Dallas, an essential hub for Datalogic's pre-sales and inside-sales. The new team will be responsible for generating new leads based off demand, converting those into sales opportunities. Application engineers will support the sales team in demo activities on specific products across all verticals in which Datalogic operates (Manufacturing, Healthcare, Transportation & Logistics, and Retail), to present advanced Datalogic solutions to prospective customers. During the opening, Datalogic's CEO, Valentina Volta said "Datalogic has been doing business in the U.S. for 45 years and we are very happy about our presence in the world's largest economy. We are prod to be in this wonderful country aiming to be recognized as an American player, targeting to double our revenues. To make sure to seize all the opportunities the US market, as the largest economy in the world offers to Datalogic, we decided last year to open a new office here in Texas. We believe that we have many opportunities to grow our presence in the United States. Today, we have almost 500 people employed in the US Market, and around 30% of our revenue comes from the United States. With business and operations in the East and West Coasts we consider Texas the perfect state where to have the hub of our US business development efforts. We'll have indeed in the next days the North America Partner Event hosted in Austin, as a preferred location by our Partners". The opening featured a tour of the newly opened facilities and was also attended by the Mayor of Irving, Texas, Mr. Rick Stopfer, and representatives from the Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce as well as of the Texas Women's University. Datalogic is a global leader in the automatic data capture and process automation markets, specialized in the designing and production of bar code readers, mobile computers, sensors for detection, measurement and safety, RFID vision and laser marking systems. Datalogic solutions help to increase the efficiency and quality of processes in the Retail, Manufacturing, Transportation & Logistics and Healthcare industries, along the entire value chain. The world's leading players in the four reference industries use Datalogic products, certain of the attention to the customer and of the quality of the products that the Group has been offering for 45 years. Today Datalogic Group, headquartered in Bologna (Italy), employs approximately 3,100 staff worldwide, distributed in 30 countries, with manufacturing and repair facilities in the USA, Brazil, Italy, Slovakia, Hungary and Vietnam. In 2017 Datalogic had a turnover of 606 million Euro and invested over 55 million Euros in Research & Development, with an asset of more than 1,200 patents in multiple jurisdictions. Datalogic S.p.A. is listed in the STAR segment of the Italian Stock Exchange since 2001 as DAL.MI. More information about Datalogic at www.datalogic.com. Datalogic and the Datalogic logo are registered trademarks of Datalogic S.p.A. in many countries, including the U.S.A. and the E.U. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/datalogic-celebrates-40-years-in-the-north-american-market-with-opening-of-brand-new-office-in-las-colinas-texas-300723963.html SOURCE Datalogic [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Abra Simplifies Cryptocurrency Investing With New Crypto Index Accessible To Everyone, Everywhere Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Token (BIT10) gives everyday investors access to 10 cryptocurrencies with one simple investment, rebalanced monthly with a low $5 minimum and no fees SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PR Newswire/ -- Abra , the first and only all-in-one cryptocurrency wallet and exchange, today announced the ability for anyone, anywhere to invest in BIT10, a new token that tracks the professionally-managed Bitwise 10 Large Cap Crypto Index through a partnership with San Francisco-based Bitwise Asset Management, the leading provider of cryptocurrency indexes. The Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Token (BIT10), listed exclusively on Abra, gives investors a simple way to get exposure to a set of the 10 largest assets that currently make up 80% of the cryptocurrency market. This set is screened according to Bitwise's rigorous and transparent index methodology , which ensures assets meet liquidity, security, and robustness requirements. Each month, the set of 10 coins is rebalanced by Bitwise, adding and removing coins to adjust to the constantly changing market. Starting today, anyone around the world can invest in the new BIT10 token through the Abra app. There's a low $5 minimum, no restrictions on when you can buy or sell, and no fees on transactions. The BIT10 gives retail investors a simple way to benefit from the diversification and rebalancing of index investing. "We created the BIT10 token to allow greater access to cryptocurrency investing by making the experience simple and accessible," said Bill Barhydt, Abra Founder and CEO. "Through partnerships like this one with Bitwise, Abra has created an unprecedented opportunity for the everyday person to start investing in crypto." "Index investing is extremely popular in stocks, bonds, and crypto because it gives investors diversified exposure without having to constantly monitor news and try to predict which assets will be most valuable," said Bitwise CEO Hunter Horsley. "So far in the crypto space, index investing has only been available to institutions and accredited investors. We're thrilled for that to be changing today with the BIT10 on Abra, which is available to anyone." How BIT10 Token Works BIT10 is only accessible through the Abra app. The cost of each BIT10 token reflects the value of the 10 coins in the index. Like other cryptocurrencies, BIT10 can be purchased in fractional amounts, so investors can decide which amount works best for them and enjoy low minimum buy-ins ($5). The price of each BIT10 token is based on a real-time price feed of the Bitwise 10 Large Cap Crypto Index provided by Bitwise. The methodology of the index is publicly available to read and is actively maintained by Bitwise. The composition of the assets in the index, and subsequently the exposure of the BIT10, is rebalanced on a monthly basis in accordance with the methodology's rules which include a variety of requirements related to liquidity, security, and trading volume. The composition of BIT10 will be published on Abra and will reflect the monthly rebalancing update of the index by Bitwise. Using Abra's successful stablecoin model on the backend, BIT10 positions are held in multi-signature smart contracts on the Bitcoin or Litecoin blockchain. Once invested, Abra and the user are entering into a smart contract that effectively pegs the asset invested (either fiat currency or cryptocurrency) to the same amount of BIT10 tokens. Abra will get a real-time price feed from Bitwise Asset Management (again according to their published methodology) and the BIT10 investor will see the market movement up or down reflected in the price of their BIT10 tokens. This method of using smart contracts to peg asset values to one another is a proven technology that is what currently powers the backend of the Abra app. Now, instead of trading fiat currency for cryptocurrency or for other synthetic currencies, BIT10 investors can use the same technology to easily invest in larger portions of the crypto market, all through one crypto asset. Another big advantage to Abra's technology is that it is all based on a non-custodial wallet , which cuts out the need for third parties and gives the user more control. How to Invest in BIT10 Getting started with Abra is easy. Simply download the app from the Google Play or Apple Store and set up an Abra wallet . From there, users can fund the wallet via bank transfer, credit card or other crypto assets to get started. Once funds have been added, start investing in BIT10 or any of Abra's 28 supported cryptos. About Abra Abra is the first and only all-in-one global app offering a true crypto exchange and digital wallet -making cryptocurrency investing simple. Abra empowers consumers to buy and hold 28 cryptocurrencies and 50 fiat currencies on a single app. Exchanges between multiple cryptocurrencies or fiat are quick, easy, and safe. Plus, with the Abra app, consumers can manage all crypto investments in one screen. Abra was founded in 2014 by Bill Barhydt, a veteran in the cryptocurrency space and an early Netscape employee. Investors include American Express Ventures, First Round Capital, HCM of Foxconn Group, Arbor Ventures, Lerer Hippeau, RRE Ventures, Silver8 Capital and others. About Bitwise Asset Management Founded in 2017, Bitwise Asset Management pioneered the first cryptocurrency index fund and is the leading provider crypto indexes and index funds. The team is based in San Francisco and combines modern software expertise with decades of asset management experience, coming from firms including Facebook, Wealthfront, BlackRock, JPMorgan, US Commodity Funds, Goldman Sachs, and ETF.com. Bitwise is backed by leading institutional investors and is a partner to high net worth individuals, financial advisors, family offices, multi-family offices, investment managers and institutions in navigating the crypto asset space. Bitwise develops funds, indexes, models, research, and other services. For more information, visit www.bitwiseinvestments.com About Bitwise Index Services Bitwise Index Services, LLC is a subsidiary of Bitwise Asset Management. Bitwise Index Services develops cryptocurrency indexes and conducts research in the area of cryptocurrency investing. Bitwise makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, regarding the advisability of investing in Abra Cryptocurrency-based Software Contracts Product(s). Bitwise's only obligation is the licensing of the Index which is determined, composed and maintained by Bitwise without regard to any product offering. Bitwise disclaims liability to any party for any errors or omissions in the Index, for any inaccuracy in the data on which the Bitwise Products are based, and for any mistakes, errors, or omissions in the calculation and/or dissemination of the Abra Cryptocurrency-based Software Contracts Product(s) nor shall it be under any obligation to advise any person of any error therein. Bitwise and the Bitwise Indexes are the service marks of Bitwise and are being used with the permission of Bitwise. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/754023/Abra_screenshot.jpg [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] Issuetrak Hosts First User Conference in Norfolk, Virginia NORFOLK, Va., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Issuetrak , a leader in the development of issue tracking and process management software, will host its first user conference at the Waterside Marriott in Norfolk, VA, on Oct. 10-11, 2018. The Issuetrak User Conference will bring together users from all over the US and Canada. Conference presentations will include user tips aimed at helping customers get the most out of their Issuetrak systems. Product specialists and senior leadership from the development, support, professional services, and sales teams will discuss best practices related to topics such as site security, system configuration, metrics and reporting, multi-department usage, and integrations. Hank Luhring, CEO and Founder, will open the conference with a product direction talk that will cover the history of how the Issuetrak application has evolved; what is scheduled for release later this year; an what the product roadmap looks like. A goal of the conference is to provide ample time for Issuetrak users to engage other users. As such, a customer panel will kick off the second day. Customers will talk about what pain points they have addressed with Issuetrak, how their usage has evolved, the types of issues and processes they manage in their Issuetrak systems, and what value Issuetrak has brought to their organizations. Other topics to be covered during the conference include: How to control issue visibility in a multi-usage site Mastering the fundamentals of Issuetrak reporting Tackling IT headaches with Issuetrak Improving process management with enhanced automation Issuetrak security and best practices for securing your Issuetrak system For more information about the Issuetrak User Conference, visit: https://www.issuetrak.com/user-conference/ About Issuetrak Issuetrak is a leader in developing issue tracking, complaint management, workflow, customer support, and help desk software. We provide customers with reliable and intuitive solutions for tracking, assigning, escalating, and reporting on internal and external issues and requests. Issuetrak includes a powerful process management component for streamlining workflows and ensuring approvals are obtained and procedures followed. Our software can be cloud-hosted or purchased and self-hosted, offering maximum flexibility for deployment. Founded in 1992 and based in Norfolk, VA, Issuetrak serves customers around the globe, large and small and spanning all industries. For more information, visit: www.issuetrak.com Contact Sarah Spangler Issuetrak Email: sarah.spangler@issuetrak.com Tel: + 1 757 213 1332 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] INVESTOR ALERT: Law Offices of Howard G. Smith Announces Investigation on Behalf of Jianpu Technology Inc. Investors (JT) Law Offices of Howard G. Smith announces an investigation on behalf of Jianpu Technology Inc. ("Jianpu" or the "Company") (NYSE: JT) investors concerning the Company and its officers' possible violations of federal securities laws. Jianpu operates a mobile platform that recommends loans underwritten by Chinese subprime lenders, including Qudian Inc. ("Qudian"), and PPDAI Group Inc. ("PPDAI"). On November 16, 2017, Jianpu conducted its initial public offering of American depositary shares at a price of $8.00 per share. On November 21, 2017, howver, Chinese regulators banned the issuance of new online peer-to-peer licenses, citing improper and illegal practices by lenders such as Qudian and PPDAI. On this news, Jianpu's share price fell more than 30%, to close at just $4.90 per share on Nov. 24, 2017, thereby injuring investors. If you purchased Jianpu securities, have information or would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Howard G. Smith, Esquire, of Law Offices of Howard G. Smith, 3070 Bristol Pike, Suite 112, Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020 by telephone at (215) 638-4847, toll-free at (888) 638-4847, or by email to howardsmith@howardsmithlaw.com, or visit our website at www.howardsmithlaw.com. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005847/en/ [October 03, 2018] Unity Health's White County Medical Center Reports 85% Decrease in Infection Rates After Germ-Fighting Robots Deployed to Disinfect Patient Rooms Unity Health's White County Medical Center was the first hospital in Arkansas to join the Mayo Clinic Care Network, a network of health care providers committed to better serving patients and their families through collaboration, and is the only hospital in Arkansas to receive the prestigious Governor's Quality Award twice. As evidence of its commitment to patient safety, White County Medical Center was one of the first hospitals in Arkansas to adopt Xenex LightStrike Germ-Zapping Robots for room disinfection as its environmental standard of care. The facility is currently using three LightStrike robots to disinfect over 30 rooms per day in four targeted units as well as the Operating Rooms (after the day's procedures have been completed). Using a high intensity, pulsed xenon ultraviolet (UV) light, the robots quickly and effectively disinfect patient rooms of hard to kill pathogens such as Clostridium difficile (C.diff), Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). If these microscopic pathogens are missed by manual cleaning, they can linger on surfaces in the patient environment for up to 6 months and pose a risk to patients and hospital employees. "With the rise of antibiotic-resistant superbugs, we decided to investigate the newest technologies to keep our hospital clean and our patients safe. After reviewing the clinical evidence, we chose the LightStrike pulsed xenon UV robots which are operated by our environmental services team. We are very pleased to report that we have seen an 85% reduction in infection rates since implementing our three robots," said Meghann Holmes, Infection Preventionist at White County Medical Center. According to Unity Health, the 85% reduction in infection rates has resulted in a cost savings of $528,714 for the facility and more than paid for the cost of the three robots. As superbugs such as C.diff, MRSA, and VRE become more difficult to kill, hospitals are increasingly turning to pulsed xenon UV disinfection technology to help them keep their hospitals free of dangerous microorganisms. Numerous healthcare facilities throughout the U.S. have credited the LightStrike robots in peer-reviewed, published studies for helping them reduce their C.diff, MRSA and Surgical Site Infection rates 46% - 100%. In response to their commitment to patient safety, Xenex has proudly designated White County Medical Center as a Visionary Hospital. "We are honored to be their partner," says Irene Hahn, vice president of sales and account management for Xenex. "And we have proudly designated them as a Visionary Hospital for their great work in infection prevention." According to Xenex, Visionary Hospitals are defined as hospitals that 1. Make patient safety a top priority; 2. Seek out and implement technologies with multiple proven outcomes published in peer reviewed publications; 3. Follow manufacturer recommended best practices; 4. Publicize and share results to improve best practices for all hospitals; 5. Openly share their data for their benefit and the benefit of all mankind. About Unity Health As the leading health care provider in a seven-county area, Unity Health and its associates strive to improve the quality of health and well-being for the communities it serves through compassionate care. Unity Health associates and partners strive to create a healthy community by creating a healing environment that enables people to reach their highest potential for health. For more information, visit http://www.unity-health.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005851/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 03, 2018] NRC Group Closes Acquisition of Quail Run Services, Leading Provider of Wellsite Wastewater Treatment Hennessy Capital Acquisition Corp. III (NYSE American: HCAC.U, HCAC, HCAC.WS) ("HCAC" or the "Company") today announced that NRC Group Holdings, LLC ("NRC Group") has completed the acquisition of Quail Run Services, LLC ("Quail Run"). Quail Run is a leading provider of wellsite wastewater treatment services throughout five disposal sites in the Eagle Ford (News - Alert) Shale and Permian Basin. Its state-licensed facilities are designed to properly treat domestic wastewater and then discharge/reuse the processed effluent that meets or exceeds state-provided effluent parameters. Quail Run's facilities are manned seven days per week by a licensed operator, and its facilities are driver-friendly with easy access and provide for simple unloading. "One of our goals at NRC Group is to help our upstream customers manage all of the waste volumes that are created by their activities in the Permian and Eagle Ford basins," said Chris Swinbank, CEO of NRC Group. "The addition of Quail Run allows us to further those efforts by providing professional stewardship of yet another waste stream created by our existing roster of blue-chip E&P customers." A summary of the terms of the transaction are contained in HCAC's definitive proxy statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the " SEC (News - Alert) ") on October 1, 2018 on pages 120-121 under the heading "Interim Acquisition." About NRC Group and JFLCo NRC Group is a portfolio company of investment affiliates of J.F. Lehman & Company, LLC ("JFLCo"), a leading middle-market private equity firm focused exclusively on the aerospace, defense, maritime, government and environmental sectors. NRC Group is a global provider of comprehensive environmental, compliance and waste management services to the marine and rail transportation, general industrial and energy markets. NRC Group's broad range of capabilities includes standby, environmental and waste disposal services, and enable it to provide a global reach to meet the critical, non-discretionary needs of its more than 5,000 customers across diverse end markets. NRC Group was established in June 2018 through the combination of two businesses, National Response Corporation and Sprint (News - Alert) Energy Services, both previously operating separately under the ownership of investment affiliates of JFLCo. For more information, please visit www.nrcc.com. For more information on JFLCo, please visit www.jflpartners.com. No portion of the websites referenced in this paragraph is incorporated by reference into or otherwise deemed to be a part of this news release. About Hennessy Capital Acquisition Corp. III Hennessy Capital Acquisition Corp. III is a blank check company founded by Daniel J. Hennessy and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company's acquisition and value creation strategy is to identify, acquire and, after its initial business combination, build an industrial/infrastructure manufacturing, distribution or services business. Additional Information About the Proposed Business Combination and Where to Find It The proposed Business Combination will be submitted to stockholders of the Company for their consderation. The Company has filed with the SEC a definitive proxy statement on October 1, 2018 in connection with the Business Combination and related matters and will mail the definitive proxy statement and other relevant documents to its stockholders as of the October 1, 2018 record date established for voting on the proposed transaction. The Company's stockholders and other interested persons are advised to read the definitive proxy statement, in connection with the Company's solicitation of proxies for its special meeting of stockholders to be held to approve, among other things, the Business Combination, because this document will contain important information about the Company, NRC Group and the Business Combination. Stockholders may also obtain a copy of the definitive proxy statement as well as other documents filed with the SEC regarding the Business Combination and other documents filed with the SEC by HCAC, without charge, at the SEC's website located at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to Nicholas A. Petruska, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, 3485 North Pines Way, Suite 110, Wilson, Wyoming 83014 or by telephone at (312) 803-0372. Participants in the Solicitation The Company, JFLCo, NRC Group, and certain of their respective directors, executive officers and other members of management and employees may, under SEC rules, be deemed to be participants in the solicitations of proxies from the Company's stockholders in connection with the Business Combination. Information regarding the persons who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation of the Company's stockholders in connection with the Business Combination is set forth in the Company's definitive proxy statement dated October 1, 2018 on file with the SEC. You can find more information about the Company's directors and executive officers in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, filed with the SEC on April 2, 2018. Additional information regarding the participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests are included in the Company's definitive proxy statement, which can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above. Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes, or incorporates by reference, "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "estimate," "plan," "project," "forecast," "intend," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "seek," "target" or other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (1) references with respect to the anticipated benefits of the Business Combination; (2) the projection of future financial performance of NRC Group, NRC Group's operating companies and HCAC following the Business Combination; (3) changes in the market for NRC Group's services and expansion plans and opportunities; (4) future acquisition or additional business combinations; (5) the financing component of the Business Combination, including any related subscription agreements; (6) the sources and uses of cash; (7) the management and board composition of the Company following the Business Combination; (8) the anticipated capitalization and enterprise value of the Company following the Business Combination; (9) the continued listing of the Company's securities on the NYSE American; and (10) the expected closing date of the Business Combination. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and are subject to various risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statement, and which include, but are not limited to, the following factors: (1) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the purchase agreement between JFL-NRC- SES (News - Alert) and HCAC; (2) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against NRC Group, JFLCo or the Company following announcement of the Business Combination and related transactions; (3) the inability to complete the transactions contemplated by the purchase agreement between JFL-NRC-SES and HCAC due to the failure to obtain approval of the stockholders of the Company, consummate the anticipated financing, or satisfy other conditions to the closing of the Business Combination; (4) the ability to obtain or maintain the listing of the Company's securities on the NYSE American following the Business Combination; (5) the risk that the Business Combination disrupts the parties' current plans and operations as a result of the announcement and consummation of the transactions described herein; (6) the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the Business Combination, which may be affected by, among other things, competition and the ability of the combined business to grow and manage growth profitably; (7) unexpected costs, charges or expenses related to or resulting from the Business Combination; (8) changes in applicable laws or regulations; (9) the possibility that NRC Group or the Company may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; and (10) other risks associated with the Business Combination, as more fully discussed in the definitive proxy statement filed by the Company with the SEC on October 1, 2018 in connection with the Business Combination. Investors and potential investors are urged not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements in this news release, which speak only as of this date. Neither the Company nor JFLCo nor NRC Group undertakes any obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statement to reflect future events or circumstances. Nothing contained herein constitutes or will be deemed to constitute a forecast, projection or estimate of the future financial performance of the Company, NRC Group, or the combined company, following the implementation of the Business Combination or otherwise. In addition, actual results are subject to other risks identified in the Company's prior and future filings with the SEC, available at www.sec.gov. No Offer or Solicitation This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005784/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] "I wish he hadn't done it," Flake said. "It's kind of appalling." Flake is a key GOP vote in the confirmation battle, and while he said last week he would vote to confirm Kavanaugh, he also called for an expanded FBI investigation that resulted in a one-week delay. Flake has not said how he will vote if the nomination comes up this week. Getty Realty Corp. to Report Third Quarter 2018 Financial Results Getty Realty Corp. (NYSE:GTY) will release its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2018, after the market closes on Wednesday, October 24, 2018. Getty Realty Corp. will host a conference call and webcast on Thursday, October 25, 2018, at 8:30 a.m. EDT. To participate in the call, please dial (800) 289-0438, or (323) 794-2423 for international participants, ten minutes before the scheduled start. Participants may also access the call via live webcast by visiting the investors section of the Company's website at ir.gettyrealty.com. If you cannot participate in the live event, a replay will be available on Thursday, October 25, 2018, beginning at 11:30 a.m. EDT through 11:59 p.m. EDT, Friday, November 2, 2018. To access the replay, please dial (844) 512-2921, or (412) 317-6671 for international participants, and reference pass code 7308191. About Getty Realty Corp. Getty Realty Corp. is the leading publicly-traded real estate investment trust in the United States specializing in the ownership, leasing and financing of convenience store and gasoline station properties. As of June 30, 2018, the Company owned 854 properties and leased 78 properties from third-party landlords in 30 states across the United States and Washington, D.C. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005796/en/ Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP Announces Investigation on Behalf of Jianpu Technology Inc. Investors (JT) Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP ("GPM") announces an investigation on behalf of Jianpu Technology Inc. investors ("Jianpu" or the "Company") (NYSE: JT) concerning the Company and its officers' possible violations of federal securities laws. If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate. Jianpu operates a mobile platform that recommends loans underwritten by Chinese subprime lenders, including Qudian Inc. ("Qudia") and PPDAI Group Inc. ("PPDAI"). On November 16, 2017, Jianpu conducted its initial public offering of American depositary shares at a price of $8.00 per share. On November 21, 2017, however, Chinese regulators banned the issuance of new online peer-to-peer licenses, citing improper and illegal practices by lenders such as Qudian and PPDAI. On this news, Jianpu's share price fell more than 30%, to close at just $4.90 per share on November 24, 2017, thereby injuring investors. Follow us for updates on Twitter (News - Alert) : twitter.com/GPM_LLP. If you purchased Jianpu, have information or would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Lesley Portnoy, Esquire, of GPM, 1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100, Los Angeles, California 90067, at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, by email to shareholders@glancylaw.com, or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number and number of shares purchased. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005931/en/ The Pixel 3 is the ultimate expression of Android and proof that AI done right can make your life easier. The Pixel 3 is the ultimate expression of Android and proof that AI done right can make your life easier. For all the Pixel 3's implementations of AI and there a lot of them this isn't a phone that asks anything unwelcome of its users. There's no learning curve here, no alphabetized list of features buried in submenus to memorize and no sacrifice required to get the most from the hardware. In a way, the Pixel 3 is the anti-Android phone. Here, Google has built a device that bends to you, not one that forces you to bend. And that makes the Pixel 3 one of the best smartphones available. It's delightfully intuitive and easy to live with, yet infinitely capable. In other words, it's the smartphone that will remind you of the very first time you used a smartphone and all the fascination and promise that came with it. Now that the Pixel 4 is launched, stock of the Pixel 3 is dwindling. Google recently cut the phone's price to $499, though those supplies quickly depleted at the Google Store. That means you'll have to look elsewhere to nab last year's model at a good price. Still, if you can track down a bargain, the Pixel 3 remains a compelling value. If you're looking for a great camera for less money and you're willing to give up some performance check out our reviews of the cheaper Pixel 3a ($399/399) and Pixel 3a XL ($479/469). Update Nov. 25: Amazon has the 64GB versions of the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL for $350 off their original prices, fully unlocked and in every color for Black Friday. It's the finest deal on a high-end smartphone we've seen yet this week, though that could change as we get closer to the weekend, so keep it locked on Tom's Guide's Black Friday deals hub for the latest. Price and Availability The Pixel 3 started at $799 when it released, though you should be able to find it for hundreds less now while retailers' and carriers' supplies last. The device comes with 64GB of storage, though users who require more storage must tack on another $100/100 for the 128GB configuration; neither Pixel 3 comes with a microSD slot for expandability. You have a choice of three colors: Just Black, Clearly White and Not Pink. When the Pixel originally came out in the fall of 2018, you had limited options for where you could grab a Pixel 3. As with past Pixels, Verizon sold the phone as did Google's own Project Fi wireless service, which combines coverage from T-Mobile, Sprint and U.S. Cellular and follows a pay-what-you-use approach. You could buy the phone unlocked from Google as well. Later, the Pixel 3 made it to more carriers. Sprint offers both the Pixel 3 and 3 XL (not the mention the cheaper 3a and 3a XL models). T-Mobile offers just the 3 XL alongside the two cheaper 3a models. Specs Google Pixel 3 Google Pixel 3 XL Price $799/$899739/839 $899/$999 869/969 CPU Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 Screen 5.5-inch OLED (2160 x 1080) 6.3-inch OLED (2960 x 1440) Rear Camera Single: 12.2MP (f/1.8) with OIS and EIS Single: 12.2MP (f/1.8) with OIS and EIS Front Camera Dual: 8MP wide-angle (f/2.2) and 8MP (f/1.8) Dual: 8MP wide-angle (f/2.2) and 8MP (f/1.8) Battery 2,915 mAh with 18-watt fast charging and Qi wireless chargingWireless charging, up to 10 watts 3430 mAh with 18-watt fast charging and Qi wireless chargingWireless charging, up to 10 watts Battery Life 8:27 9:30 Memory 4GB 4GB Storage 64GB/128GB 64GB/128GB Water resistance IP68 IP68 Audio Front-firing stereo speakers Front-firing stereo speakers Software Android 9 Pie Android 9 Pie Special Features Wireless charging, up to 10 watts Wireless charging, up to 10 watts Materials Aluminum frame, hybrid glass coating Aluminum frame, hybrid glass coating Colors Clearly White, Just Black, Not Pink Clearly White, Just Black, Not Pink Weight 5.2 ounces 6.5 ounces Size 5.7 x 2.7 x 0.3 inches 6.2 x 3.0 x 0.3 inches Design: Charming and compact At 5.5 inches, the compact flavor of Google's third-generation Pixel is objectively classified as a small handset by 2018 standards, or a normal-size one from a couple years ago. On the Pixel 3, I can effortlessly reach all corners of the screen without involving a second hand. That, in and of itself, is a distinctly antiquated feeling among smartphones today. But it also perfectly symbolizes why Google's relatively tiny flagship is so special. You won't find any Galaxy S9-style sloping Infinity edges here. There's no plurality of rear lenses like on the LG V40; no shimmering, chameleon-like ombre backside that evokes the Huawei P20; and certainly no notch (at least on the smaller model; the 3 XL has caved to peer pressure). There's just an 18:9 display flanked by two reasonably sized bezels housing a pair of booming front-facing speakers. Personally, I'm not bothered by the forehead and chin, as they serve a purpose, though it would have been nice to see Google trim them down a bit more. The design philosophy here is minimalist and unassuming, though I wouldn't necessarily call it boring. There's a charm to the way the Pixel 3 fits snugly in the palm of your hand and how little attention it draws to itself. I've been carrying the Clearly White model for about a week now, and I can't get enough of its mint power button. This adds just the right dash of personality to an otherwise-tastefully restrained handset. Simplicity is very much the operative word here. Google's attention to detail extends to the Pixel 3's all-glass construction a noteworthy departure from this phone's predecessors, which fused aluminum and glass. Now clad in Gorilla Glass 5 all around, the newest Pixels can finally charge wirelessly. Wireless charging is all well and good, but Google's a bit late to the party. After all, my 5-year-old Nexus 4 drew power from induction pads, at the expense of a fragile, wafer-thin glass back that shattered at the faintest gust of wind. The Pixel 3, on the other hand, incorporates glass in a way it's never been used before in a phone. There's a charm to the way the Pixel 3 fits snugly in the palm of your hand and how little attention it draws to itself. One of Google's iconic design cues is the so-nicknamed "Pixel Window": that square of glass that made up the upper third of the Pixel 2's backside, while the rest of the chassis was crafted from metal. But because the Pixel 3 is shrouded in a single sheet of glass, Google had to develop a new etching process to deliver that signature glossy-meets-matte effect. This matte surface blankets most of the Pixel 3. It certainly won't fool anyone into thinking they're touching metal, but it repels fingerprints admirably and presents a thoughtful approach of freshening up plain old glass both in aesthetics and feel. To keep things consistent, the phone's aluminum frame has been finished with the same shine as the glossy portions of the back. I'm not a fan of this decision it feels a little chintzy and doesn't lend the same sense of quality as the Pixel 2's distinctive powder coating. But this is a nitpick, and you can rest assured that there's nothing chintzy about the phone's durability. The Pixel 3 is rated IP68 water resistant, meaning it should withstand up to 5 feet of water for a maximum of 30 minutes. MORE: Pixel 3 vs. iPhone XR: Battle of the Affordable Flagships Oh, and one more thing: The haptics are fantastic. They don't feel terribly different in the Pixel 3 compared to the Pixel 2, but typing in particular is rich and satisfying, where tapping keys produces precise pops rather than jarring buzzes. Other Android phone makers should take note. Cameras: Better photos through AI Say hello to the first Pixel with dual-lens imaging. No, not for the rear camera that's still a 12.2-megapixel shooter. Rather, the Pixel 3 packs a pair of 8-MP front-facing cameras, one with a wide-angle perspective and another that's more conventional. Of course, those selfie cameras are notable in their own right, but the Pixel 3's crown jewel is that lone rear lens. With it and with Google's breakthrough HDR+ image processing and Pixel Visual Core chip this phone turns out some of the best photography we've ever seen from a mobile device. That said, the Pixel 3 does meet a formidable opponent in the iPhone XS. Both phones were used to capture this evening scene as the sun was going down just outside New York's Herald Square. Google's device notably blows out the light collected by the corner of the Macy's building. However, it paints the storefronts and street signs with increased sharpness and steers clear of the hazy warmth that pervades the iPhone's rendition. Inside Grand Central Station, both the Pixel 3 and iPhone XS captured stunning shots of the ceiling of the Main Concourse. The iPhone looks to have the edge here, though, thanks to more-even overall exposure and better white balance, which cuts down on the slight reddish tint in the Pixel's shots. Also, the design on the ceiling is much more noticeable through the lens of Apple's handset. We used Grand Central's iconic clock as an opportunity to test Super Res Zoom. One of the Pixel 3 camera's new features, it combines multiple frames to fill in detail when you're using digital zoom. In this particular example, it's astonishing to see Google's handset deliver an image through software that's every bit as sharp as what the iPhone XS was able to pull off with its 2x optical zoom. However, Super Res Zoom favors certain scenarios more than others. Outside, on a breezy fall morning in Bryant Park, the Galaxy Note 9's optical zoom produced a sharper, punchier shot of some plants at the base of a statue. While the Pixel 3's attempt is by no means poor, beating better optics with software is a tall task. Additionally, the Note 9 benefited from its Scene Optimizer tech, which recognized that the phone was shooting greenery and so tuned the exposure appropriately. When things get really dark, though, the Pixel 3 falters. The Note 9's superwide f/1.5 aperture makes it one of the best devices there is for low-light photography, as evidenced by this comparison. The Pixel 3's dingy, noisy exposure lacks all of the color and detail that Samsung's phablet provides. However, our initial low-light tests were conducted before we were able to try Night Sight a mode that recently launched on the Pixel 3 in November. Night Sight is a real game changer, turning out phenomenal results by blending a succession of frames together to emulate a long exposure time, and using AI to infer the colors and gaps in detail. Because the Pixel 3 doesn't require a second lens to determine depth, it can perform Portrait Mode bokeh-style shots through its single rear-facing camera. Once again, the results are impressive; there's stronger color and contrast from Google's device, and the fabric in my colleague Caitlin's sweater is more in focus. However, the iPhone XS navigates the boundaries of the foreground better, which leads to less of the artifacting around Caitlin's hair that the Pixel 3 unfortunately left in. How does the Pixel 3 hold up against a more recently released camera like the triple lens setup on the back of the new Galaxy S10 Plus? We still think the Pixel comes out on top, but Samsung's camera gives the Google phone a run for its money, particularly in outdoor shots like the one above featuring hats. Zoom in, and the S10 Plus does a better job with finer details, even if the Pixel's shot produces more vivid colors. In other areas, though, the Pixel 3 maintains an edge despite the improvements Samsung made to the Galaxy S10's cameras. A portrait mode shot with bokeh effects displays more natural color on the Pixel 3, while Samsung's new phone blows out the subjects a little bit. Turning back to our iPhone/Pixel comparisons, the Pixel 3 blows away the iPhone XS where selfies are concerned. Recently, the front-facing sensors in Apple's latest handsets have been criticized for aggressive smoothing. Judging from the result here, I'd say those claims aren't totally unfounded. In contrast, the Pixel 3 delivers a remarkably crisp portrait that perfectly captures my skin tone as well as all the finer details, like the fabric of my flannel shirt and beanie. The next time you accidentally cut your friend out of a selfie, you're going to wish you had the Pixel 3's wide-angle, front-facing camera. Obviously, it draws in so much more of your surroundings than a conventional lens, like the one on the Note 9. But what I love most about it is the way it's implemented in the Pixel 3's camera software. All you have to do is press a minus button, as if you're zooming out. Pixel 3 (left), iPhone XS (right) It's almost just as easy to access Top Shot, the last of the Pixel 3's trio of camera-improving features, which captures a bunch of frames before and after you take every photo, no matter which lens you're using. If the Pixel 3 notices that something's off about the one you took, it'll suggest you save a different one as a copy instead. But even if it doesn't do this, you can swipe up on any photo taken and scrub frame by frame until you see something that strikes your fancy. Pixel 3 (left), iPhone XS (right) Whether you opt for the 5.5-inch Pixel 3 or the larger Pixel 3 XL, it's encouraging to know you're getting the same great camera. Google remains committed to continuing feature parity between the two models, and people who prefer small phones are better off for it. Outside of the obvious difference in display size and the larger battery in the XL, these are functionally the same devices. MORE: OnePlus 7 Pro vs. Pixel 3: Which Phone Wins? Android Pie: A smarter OS The greatest thing about a Pixel is never strictly the hardware; rather, it's how that hardware is used. The Pixel 3 comes with Android 9 Pie fresh out of the box, though it'd be unfair to call this simply a stock installation. In actuality, Android on the Pixel is hardly more stock than Android on one of Samsung's products, considering all the exclusive features Google adds to its OS specifically for its phones. As it turns out, Digital Wellbeing is, at least for now, less of an Android Pie thing and more of a Pixel thing. Same goes for the new gesture-based navigation system, which is the default way of getting around on Google's latest flagship but not necessarily all Pie-powered phones. Both features have already made their way to Pixel 2 owners, though, personally, I've gotten tremendous utility out of Pie's new approach to managing notifications. Google Maps has pinged me on multiple occasions for traffic alerts and requests to rate places, and with each notification comes the ability to turn off that particular class of alert. The latest version of Android gives you more control than you've ever had over how and under what circumstances apps should jostle for your attention. Once again, you can squeeze the Pixel 3 to summon your Google Assistant. But I reckon that the phone's biggest little special feature is Call Screen, a service that leverages Google Assistant to, well, screen calls for you. Call Screen: Borderline revolutionary Anytime you receive a ring from an unknown number, the Pixel 3 offers the option of screening rather than answering. When this happens, you'll see a live transcription of what the robot (or person) on the other end of the line is saying. If you're being solicited, your Assistant will reply with a request to remove you from any lists. But if the caller turns out to be someone you actually want to speak to, you can cut your Assistant off and jump on the line immediately. MORE: Video: Pixel 3's Screen Call Is Simply Amazing Call Screen is that rare feature that works so well and makes so much sense that you'll be amazed it hasn't been done before. In fact, it's already proved indispensable to me, after one incident in which I got rung up from a number I didn't recognize. Google Assistant asked for the caller's info, and when they responded, I found out it was actually my insurance company reaching out about an important claim. I was able to instantly jump in and take over the conversation from my Assistant. But if it weren't for Call Screen, I probably would have just declined the call. Pixel Stand: Wireless charging meets Google Home Google's Pixel Stand wireless charger, sold separately for $79, unlocks even more Assistant goodies, including shortcuts that appear on the Always On display when the device is charging. These shortcuts launch Routines collections of actions tied to certain scenarios, like waking up in the morning or getting home from work which you'd typically trigger with a voice command. Other Pixel Stand features include Sunrise Alarm, which adds a subtle glow to the Pixel 3's display that increases in intensity right before you wake up. And owners of Nest's Hello video doorbell will be able to see the feed on their phones the moment somebody comes knocking. You don't need to say a word or open an app; so long as your Pixel 3 is charging on the stand, it'll show you who's at the door. As with the Pixel 2, the Pixel 3 comes with three years of postlaunch Android version and security updates. The industry standard is typically two years of new software. Couple that with phone makers lagging behind Google on delivering updates, and this remains one of the finest reasons to consider a Pixel in lieu of other Android flagships. Display: Finally, OLED the Pixel deserves Google heard the complaints about the Pixel 2 XL's display and wanted to set them right. That much is certain from the moment you lay your eyes on the Pixel 3's 5.5-inch OLED screen. The new, HDR-spec panel is better than anything Google's sold in a smartphone before and by a considerable margin. The issues that riddled the Pixel 2 XL are thankfully nowhere to be found. There's no splotchiness with solid colors and no distracting tint at odd viewing angles. Google has engineered safeguards in the software to stamp out image retention, as well as a new Dynamic color profile that satisfies people searching for punchier hues beyond plain old sRGB. Truthfully, though, you don't need to know any of that to appreciate the Pixel 3's screen. I fired up YouTube to watch the trailer for Sony's upcoming animated Spider-Man flick and sat mesmerized by the amber explosions and neon lights leaping off New York's night sky. The intensity of the colors and fluidity of motion gave the impression of a comic book brought to life. Indeed, the Pixel 3's screen is striking, and it can finally stand tall among the industry's best. That said, a few small concerns keep this display just off the top of the podium. For one thing, Google's full-HD flagship is outmatched by QHD devices like the Galaxy S9, which benefit from higher pixel density. This makes text on the Pixel 3 a bit more jagged than on certain other high-end handsets. Red, green and blue subpixels are also slightly easier to discern with the naked eye on the Pixels screen. I can get past that, but the Pixel 3's brightness or lack thereof is a little more frustrating. On its highest setting, the Pixel 3 registered just 401 nits on our light meter. That's some 200 nits shy of the iPhone XS. In certain situations, such as under harsh sunlight, Google's device can get brighter. But most of the time, users will be quite limited by what the software will allow. MORE: What a Diehard iPhone User Thinks of the Pixel 3 The Pixel 3 offers some of the most-robust color we've seen from a smartphone, topping 202 percent of the sRGB color space on the phone's default Dynamic setting. For reference, the iPhone XS reaches only 125 percent, However, this penchant for saturation comes somewhat at the expense of accuracy, as the Pixel 3 achieves a Delta-E score of 0.44 compared to the iPhone XS' 0.22. (Numbers closer to zero are better.) If it's realism you want, we recommend trying the optional Boosted and sRGB modes. Performance: Beyond the sum of its parts The Pixel 3 might be really, really smart, but the silicon that powers it is no different than what youd find in countless other Android phones. That's not to say that the Snapdragon 845 system-on-chip and the 4GB of RAM in the Pixel 3 don't lend themselves to a fast and pleasant experience. But some of Google's Android partners like OnePlus, Asus and even Razer offer twice the amount of memory you get from both the Pixel 3 and 3 XL. And they have the benchmarking results to prove it. Take Geekbench 4, for example, on which the Pixel 3 crossed the finish line with a modest multicore score of 7,316. That's only about 1,000 points more than what the Pixel 2 managed with an older, Snapdragon 835 chipset, but it's some 1,500 points behind the Snapdragon 845-powered Galaxy Note 9's showing. The OnePlus 6 well exceeds the 9,000-point threshold, and you can just forget about the Pixel 3 competing against the A12 Bionic-powered iPhone XS. Apple's handsets are in another league. The Pixel 3 didn't take quite the same drubbing in 3DMark's Sling Shot Extreme OpenGL ES 3.1 test, on which its 4,400 points edged out the iPhone XS's score of 4,244. Here, the OnePlus 6 took the lead, with a score of 5,124, though I noticed no appreciable difference playing PUBG Mobile on Google's hardware. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that the Pixel 3 felt every bit as fast as the OnePlus 6 in all of my daily tasks, which consisted mostly of a mix of Spotify listening, Maps navigation, web browsing, messaging and a little bit of YouTube watching. Recent apps stayed ready at my beck and call, without closing due to a lack of resources. MORE: Pixel 3 XL Hands-On Review: The New Camera Phone King Has Arrived Perhaps it's because of the way Google optimized things, but this is yet another case where numbers alone don't tell the whole story. Our real-world video-encoding test illustrated as much, with the Pixel 3 converting a short 4K clip to 1080p in 2 minutes and 53 seconds nearly a whole minute faster than the OnePlus 6, yet an eternity compared to the iPhone XS' 39 seconds. However, some owners of the Pixel 3 (and its XL sibling) have noticed that the phone occasionally shuts down background processes. Initially, many theorized this was indicative of the phones' shortage of RAM, but it may have even more to do with a glitch in the phones' memory management, as earlier Pixel devices with the same RAM allotment aren't as eager to curb tasks so swiftly. To fix this, Google confirmed to 9to5Google that it will push out a software update "in the coming weeks" which will hopefully address the issue. For what its worth, our in-house units have sporadically closed background apps, like Spotify while its streaming music though this has only happened two or three times after nearly a month with the devices. Battery life: Fast charging, not longest lasting The 2,920-mAh battery inside the Pixel 3 is about average in terms of capacity, but it supports every cutting-edge charging technology on the market today. That includes 18-watt fast charging with the stock adapter, good for achieving 50 percent in just 30 minutes. The phone can also recharge wirelessly at 10 watts through Google's Pixel Stand. (Though the Pixel 3 will accept only up to 5 watts from third-party Qi chargers.) In our battery test, which consists of endless website streaming over T-Mobile LTE at 150 nits of brightness, the Pixel 3 ran out of juice after 8 hours and 27 minutes. In another run, on Verizon's network, the phone managed 8 hours and 12 minutes. Both times are well shy of our 9:48 smartphone average, not to mention the 12:09 that the Pixel 2 XL gave us. However, in typical usage, our Pixel 3 never strained for a charge. One day, I unplugged the phone at 7:30 a.m., and after hours of phone calls, photo taking, video streaming and playing podcasts over those loud stereo speakers, the Pixel 3 lasted right up until midnight. If I had been more careful, I'd venture to say that a day and a half was well within the phone's capabilities. MORE: 6 Reasons to Skip the Pixel 3 for the Pixel 2 Theoretically, the Pixel 3 will only last longer with age, too well, at least until the battery degrades. This is thanks to yet another one of Android Pie's AI features, dubbed Adaptive Charging. After a certain length of time, Adaptive Charging notices your behaviors and intelligently prioritizes certain processes and shuts down others to preserve battery life. Bottom Line These days, practically every phone maker is desperately trying to do something extra, whether that means slapping five lenses on the back or developing a fancy new way for a camera to pop out of metal. Bucking that trend, Google made its phone more useful for the types of things you'd more likely demand from your phone. Too many tech companies lean on AI as the solution to problems that haven't been identified yet. But the Pixel 3 makes AI tangible through features like Call Screen and Top Shot, using AI to address one of the greatest challenges of mobile photography with Super Res Zoom. It helps, too, that Google's nailed the basics of every great handset by stepping up its display game and refining its design. In fact, my only gripe with the Pixel 3 involves its price. At $799/739, it's $150/110 more expensive at launch than the Pixel 2 was, even though the new phone packs the same 64GB of storage. And so much of what makes this device great pertains to software, not strictly hardware. Slight price hikes are expected, but you get the sneaking suspicion Google jacked up the cost just because Apple proved it could get away with upping prices first. That said, there are a lot of pricey phones these days, and the Pixel 3 is far from the most expensive one out there. And the more I use it, the more I'm convinced it's the best Android phone you can buy. Microsoft's stalwart 2-in-1, the Surface Pro, is back in black with the latest Intel processors. The Surface Pro 6 (Microsoft ditched the naming scheme last year, but it's back) uses 8th Gen Intel Core processors. It will start at $899 when it launches on Oct. 16, and will be available in both black and gray. Specifically, those CPU options are the Core i5-8250U or i7-8650U, paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR3 RAM and up to 1TB of solid-state storage. Microsoft claims that the 2-in-1's battery will last up to 13.5 hours on video playback, so we're curious how it will last on our more stressful battery test. Surface chief Panos Panay said that the thermals were redesigned to accommodate the new quad-core processor. Despite its name, Microsoft is shipping the Surface Pro with Windows 10 Home rather than Pro. But at least we can be thankful there was nary a mention of S Mode here or with the new Surface Laptop 2. The 12.3-inch PixelSense display hasn't changed, and it still has the 3:2 aspect ratio I love so very much. And the whole tablet is super light at 1.7 pounds. But while there's so much of the same that's good, there's one new feature totally missing: Microsoft missed the opportunity to add USB Type-C or Thunderbolt 3 to the Surface Pro 6 (and the Surface Laptop 2), putting it behind the Surface Go and Surface Book 2, which both have the feature. A Microsoft representative said this is because demand for the port is "divided." The keyboard is still nice and bouncy, though you still have to pay extra for the Type Cover. If you were waiting for quad-core, you've got it in the most powerful Surface Pro yet, and we'll put it to the test in our labs. But I'm already hoping for a more significant redesign with the latest ports next year. KCPD investigating double fatal shooting near 30th Terrace and Van Brunt The Kansas City Police Department is investigating a double shooting Tuesday afternoon. That incident happened just after 3:40 p.m. Officers were called to 30 th Terrace and Van Brunt to investigate a shooting. When they arrived, they found one person in critical condition as the result of apparent gunshot wounds, and a second wounded individual off of 31 st Street. Political upheaval today didn't stop the spate of gunfire in Kansas City's urban core, here's the homicide count soon to reach the century mark by even the lowest estimates . . . Read more: Many in the metro think of Clay County politics as dull, but disputes on the board of commissioners and accusations of misused public money are anything but tedious for concerned citizens there. Today, we reviewed a segment from July about what drove one group to ask state officials to take a closer look. This is some kind of a trend that the French Automaker is following. Earlier this year, the Peugeot 508 Liftback was displayed as a First Edition model, and now even the 508 SW is set to be offered as one as well. Customers will be spoiled with creature comforts that are on offer, including a pair of high-end headphones. It can be ordered starting October 2, but the prices are yet to be announced. Looks really tempting, but how much does it cost? This Is One Handsome-Looking Wagon This loaded edition will be available as a range-topping GT model, and will be offered in three body shades Twilight Blue, Pearly White, and Amazonite Grey. The Peugeot 508 SW First Edition rides on 19-inch, diamond-cut two-tone alloys. The glossy black grille surround differentiates the First Edition from the other variants. A Cabin You Would Desire To Be In The wagon offers all the bells and whistles inside the cabin. Starting with the seats, customers get to choose between red and black leather upholstery. Then there are the aluminum pedals, custom doorsills with models name, LED ambient lighting, and a heads-up display. The center console houses a 10-inch touchscreen with 3-D Navigation and Voice recognition. The First Edition also comes with night vision, inductive smartphone charging, and the highlight of the car a pair of wireless headphones from Focal. The trunk can be opened electrically and is equipped with Zebrano wood finish and anti-slip bars. Phew, thats quite a list there. Under The Hood As for the drivetrains, you have the choice between a 1.6-liter, PureTech, 225, S&S, EAT8 engine that develops 222 ponies, or a 2.0-liter, BlueHDi, diesel unit that produces 176 horses. Conclusion The automaker has not announced how many copies of this limited-production wagon will be produced. The Peugeot 508 SW First Edition can be ordered in ten countries in Europe starting today. Will this wagon be sold like hot cakes, or will the French automaker struggle to push it out of the factory? Share your thoughts in the comments section below. Further reading Read our full review on the 2018 Peugeot 508. Read our full review on the 2019 Peugeot 508 SW GT. Statement by Mr Babtunde Paul Ruwase, FCA President, LCCI Press conference held at Commerce House, Victoria Island, Lagos on 2 October 2018 On behalf of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce (LCCI), Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and the Organised Private Sector (OPS) made up of MAN, NECA, NACCIMA, NASME, NASSI, our development partner, Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), I wish to express our appreciation to you for honouring our invitation to this special press conference on Nigerian Maritime ports. This press conference has been called to present the key findings and recommendations of our just concluded feedback report on the Nigerian Maritime Ports. As you may already know, there has been concerted efforts over the years by stakeholders (Federal Government in collaboration with private sector and development partners) to reposition the ports for efficiency and attainment of global best operational standard. For instance, the present administration over the last two years have focused on repositioning the ports through the National Action plans on cross border trading coordinated by Presidential Ease of Doing Business Council (PEBEC) and series of Presidential Executive Orders targeted at ports efficiency. The past and ongoing reform efforts notwithstanding, the Nigerian port continues to lag behind its peers in Africa and other parts of the world. According to 2017 World Bank Ease of Doing Business ranking, Trading Across Borders which is a major indicator for measuring a countrys ports effectiveness ranked Nigeria very low at 183 out of 185 countries. This ranking did not reflect efforts of the present administration on repositioning the ports through series of interventions targeted at improving ports efficiency. Operators and users of the Nigerian ports are increasingly faced with bureaucratic red tape, limited access to the ports due to traffic congestion, constant delays, illegal charges, technical and security breakdown, leading to high costs of operations and competitiveness. Consequently, LCCI in collaboration with other members of the OPS and our development partner, Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) as part of our commitment to the Nigerian economy carried out a fact-based feedback study on maritime ports. The report is an update of our 2016 report titled pdf Nigeria: Reforming the Maritime Ports (1.32 MB) . The report highlights the present realities in our ports, outlined the costs of ongoing crises in our ports and highlighted gaps in the implementation of policy measures for attention and action of PEBEC and other relevant authorities. The research finds that the economy is currently losing about N600 billion in customs revenue, estimated $10 billion on non-oil export and about N2.5 trillion corporate earnings across the sectors on an annual basis. Industrial capacity utilization currently stands at 38-40% and approximately 40% of businesses located around the Lagos ports communities have either relocated to other areas, scaled down operations or completely shut down. These developments have very huge adverse implication for job creation, tax revenue and real economic activities with estimated downside effect of about 3% on the countrys GDP. This research noticed a worrisome level of deliberate resistance by some MDAs to implement / enforce enabling regulations including the 2017 Presidential Executive Orders relating to the ports. Fights for supremacy, conflict of interests among the MDAs and revenue ambitions that conflicts with trade facilitation objectives among the MDAs are common issues. The study underscored the following concerns: About 10% of cargoes are cleared within the set timeline of 48 hours while majority of the cargoes take between 5 to 14 days to clear, some take as long as 20 days or more days to clear. Deliberate delays induced by MDAs official currently accounts for approximately 65% and 80% of import clearance and export processing time respectively. About 5,000 trucks currently seek access to the Lagos ports on daily basis. The port and its access roads were designed to take only about 1,500 trucks daily. Thus, trucks currently spend days and sometimes more than one week to access the port from Lagos main-land due to serious traffic hold-ups. Barring the traffic situation, the journey should have taken about one hour. This led to following consequences: Astronomical increase of trucks transport cost by 200 to 500% over the last two years; Longer cargo dwell time; Disruption of production schedules of manufacturers as raw materials are not delivered to factories in good time; Costs and risks of holding unreasonable level of inventory by companies in the bid to hedge against running out of raw materials arising from difficult access to the ports; Increased interest cost (borrowed fund) used for import transactions; High demurrage charges because of delays in cargo clearing process; High insurance premium of vessels coming to Nigeria and trucks conveying containers to and from the ports; Higher shipping and terminal charges; and Paralyzes of industrial and commercial activities in the Apapa axis and other parts of Lagos. About 60 tank farms are around Lagos ports, most of which were located without recourse to the original design of the ports, traffic consideration or the volatility of the products in the tanks. Lagos have witnessed rising spate of fuel trucks fire across the state with attendant loss of lives and properties. The most prominent recent case is the Otedola bridge fuel truck fire that clamed nine lives and 60 vehicles in June 2018. According to the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), 1,000 people were killed in 308 container trucks related accidents in 2017 alone. Feedback from stakeholders confirm that bad port access roads accounts for 90% of accidents that cause damage to fragile imported items leading to significant losses. In addition, there are painful reports of loss/damage of perishable agricultural export due to extended time spent by the trucks before getting to the ports or the poor condition of warehouses at the ports. For instance, about 25% of cashew nuts being exported from Lagos to Vietnam in 2017 went bad or downgraded due to these factors. There are incessant pirate attacks and kidnappings on vessels in Nigerias territorial waters and the Gulf of Guinea. The high incidence of piracy leads to high shipping costs on Nigerian waters with the cost ultimately transferred to port users and final consumers. There is concern over the safety and cost implications of wrecked ships and abandoned vessels littering the Nigerias waters. According to NIMASA, about 200 derelict ships and wrecks currently litter our waters. Also, the Nigerian Channels and Habours remain largely shallow; making it difficult for big vessels to access the ports. Ports users are also worried about the rising cases of stealing and pilfering of loaded and sealed containers along the port road and within the ports. Suggestions for reforms and policy actions The report outlined ports reform measures that yielded positive outcome in some countries. It also suggested a number of short, medium and long-term measures for policies, processes and infrastructure enablers needed to reposition our maritime ports as follows: 1. Operational Reforms/Policy Measures Implement the use of Single Window Platform by all the relevant MDAs: We believe that enforcing the use of Single Window Platform is the most vital reform measure needed to reduce or eliminate process delays, human interface, bureaucracy and multiplicity of agencies. This will have an immediate, wide and positive impact in the port. Enforce Presidential Executive Order: Presidential Executive Order on Single examination should be enforced and any MDA that violates the Order should be sanctioned. There is also the need to digitize export processes, especially the processing and approval of NXP forms. In addition, Federal Operations Unit (FOU) of the Nigeria Customs Service should vacate all roads (whether on checkpoint duty or on patrol duty) in the country, including interstate roads. They should be limited to the Ecowas Treaty Approved Check Points near international border posts. This is global best practice to facilitate trade and doing business. Enforce the Reduction of the Number of MDAs and Security formations at The Ports: The number of government agencies/departments at the ports is now 12 and need to be reduced to 8 in line with Presidential Order and best international port practice. Also, the number of security formations which is currently between 6 and 10 involved in port operations with different levels of involvement in the cargo clearance processes need to be streamlined. Pass and Sign the Enabling Ports Reform Bills by the National Assembly and the Presidency: The National Transport Commission Bill was passed by the by the two chambers of National Assembly. The Bill when signed into law can set the transport sector on the path of positive development and will address many controversial issues in the maritime industry. We also expect the passage signing of Port & Harbours Bill (PHB), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) bill, Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Bill and Council for Regulation of Freight Forwarders Bill. This will provide the much-needed legal framework to move our maritime ports to the next level. Pay attention to other ports outside Lagos: There is need to extend reform action plans of PEBEC to Eastern ports, air and land ports. The concessioning of Onitsha seaport should be finalized. Government should improve the security situation along and within the Warri port in other to ward off militants and touts. Stakeholders request that government should approve and publicize a bouquet of incentives to importers and exporters that patronize ports outside Lagos State. These measures will make ports outside Lagos attractive for patronage by importers and exporters. This will ultimately reduce the current pressure on the Lagos Port and roads. Promote Business Ethics and Integrity among the Port Users: It was observed that many importers and their clearing agents are fraught with dishonest practices of under and false declarations, cutting corners and inducement of MDAs officials. There is need for increased partnership and collaboration between the government, trade association and Chamber of Commerce in the educating port users on the dangers of dishonest practices. More advocacy efforts from Business Management Organisations (BMOs), name and shame of culprits and their collaborators and sanctions are needed in this area. Integrated Advance Cargo and customs clearance system: While some level of container scanning is currently in place, the proportion of activities for which scanning (estimated at about 10%) is used is too small to have any meaningful effect. We call for the implementation of an Integrated Advance Cargo and customs clearance system, with scanning, sealing and tracking (SST) capabilities. Enforce the use of National Trade Data Centre: The National Trade Data Centre has been established but not accessible by most stakeholders in the port. The Centre should be readily accessible to all agencies, operators and stakeholders at all times and everywhere to eliminate valuation arbitrariness and inherent abuses. 2. Infrastructure and Facilities Intervention Measures Track Park and Call-up System: A trailer park that was under construction around Tin Can Port but has been abandoned for some time now should be revived. There is need to commence the use of Orile Truck Park for truck call-up system. The construction of more trailer parks desirable and the installation of truck callup system will help to address the lingering traffic congestion. Weigh Bridge (manual or electronic), warehouses, internet backbone, container scanning machines and other enabling facilities at the ports are either not in place or grossly inadequate. These are areas that Public Private Partnership can be further explored. Repair and Maintenance of Port Roads: The ongoing repair of port access roads through PPP is commendable but the pace of work has been very slow leading to traffic gridlock to and within the ports. The scope of the road repair should be extended to other port access and link roads with set timeline for completion and post repair maintenance. Rail: Our desire is for Nigeria to get to the point where it can move containers and other items to and from the ports using rail across the country. In the meantime, we call for the removal of all impediments and obstruction on the existing port rail line including the tank farms. The Nigerian Railway Corporation should be incentivized to build a 1000TEU capacity Terminal at its premises in Ebute Metta where containers can be transferred to and out of Apapa Port and Lilypond terminal by rail. Also, APMT should be directed to commence utilisation of Lilypond Container Terminal for both import and export, utilizing rail for container transfers. The above concerns and recommendations are not exhaustive. Our advocacy activity in the maritime ports and other sectors is a continuous one. We have a collective responsibility working with various stakeholders to ensure a better investment environment for the progress of the Nigerian economy and the good of everyone. Conclusion It is widely acknowledged that coordinating port reforms can be challenging due to multi-level fragmentation of stakeholders, vested interests and the diversity of MDAs involved. To us in the private sector, one major way to drive economic diversification objective of the present administration is to fix the ease of doing business at the nations ports. Overall, political will, active enforcement and monitoring framework that flow right from the Presidency down to the MDAs is the most essential enabler to succeed and sustain the present port reforms. We believe that the success of the ongoing reforms in the port is largely predicated on the buy-in of all stakeholders, political will of the Presidency and PEBEC through active and sustained enforcement, monitoring and sanctions where necessary. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 3) At least three more discreet communications about President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs were filed at the International Criminal Court (ICC), Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Chairman Chito Gascon revealed on Wednesday. "Aside from the two that were public, there were probably at least three or four other communications that were submitted to the ICC by [non-government organizations] and other individuals some local, some international," Gascon told CNN Philippines. He did not name who the parties were that filed their concerns, but said the CHR was not one of them. These come on top of two separate communications already filed at the court, one from Atty. Jude Sabio, the lawyer of self-confessed Duterte hitman Edgar Matobato, and the other from rights advocacy group Rise Up for Life and for Rights. The ICC is an intergovernmental tribunal that has previously expressed interest in a preliminary examination for human rights violations in the Philippines. If the court believes there is enough cause to step in, it could file charges against the Philippine government. Duterte has withdrawn the country from ICC jurisdiction in March 2018, but this only takes effect in March 2019 which means any possible crimes committed between the Philippines' membership in 2011 and before the effectivity of its withdrawal are still actionable by the court. Gascon said the CHR has not yet received an update on whether the ICC would conduct a probe in the country, but many people believe the court would give them justice. "The ICC has not responded to our public offer of assistance, but we are currently working with individual victims who are seriously considering this as a remedy," he said. The reveal from the CHR chairman also comes after Duterte's controversial statement that his "only sin against the country is the extrajudicial killings," which his critics take as an admission of his involvement in summary executions. Opposition Senator Antonio Trillanes said he hopes the remark will be the "clincher" in the ICC case. Gascon said that the ICC will definitely look into that remark, as well as other statements from officials under Duterte. "Maybe it is an admission... maybe it is not," said Gascon. "The ICC itself will take a look at all public statements on its own." On October 1, Malacanang Palace slammed moves to take concerns against Duterte to the international tribunal. "Every lawyer, every judge in this country should be insulted by the statements made by individuals that the ICC should exercise jurisdiction... We have a working criminal justice system in the Philippines," Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said. "Those who have complaints against the President better file their complaints against him here." Prior to being Duterte's press secretary, Roque lobbied for the Philippines to ratify the Rome Statute and become an ICC member. Gascon pointed out that the African country of Burundi also withdrew from the ICC, but then the court ordered an investigation to be fast tracked two days before the jurisdiction ended. "The decision, perhaps ill-advised, of the President to withdraw from the ICC may sort of backfire on him," said Gascon. He added, "All interlocutors victims, NGOs, lawyers, even the Philippine government would not know how the ICC will act or not act." In gratitude for the support shown to EXIT Mountain Realty by the local community, the real estate brokerage recently launched Habitat for Humanity Donation Matching, according to a press release. In 2017, EXIT invited the community to help it raise money for Habitat for Humanity of Henderson County. The response was absolutely overwhelming, the release said. Not only did people step up and help meet EXITs goal of providing a Whole House Sponsorship, but it was actually the best end of year fundraising campaign that they had ever had. EXIT agents are doing this again but,... They were hiking buddies, for sure, world travelers and hard-working professionals who made a life in their own backyard of Brevard so they could stay close to their aging parents. But most of all they were partners in life for 47 years - 34 as husband and wife - until he died last year on Sept. 1, 17 days before his 79th birthday. "I met him through my landlady who also worked at the law office where I wound up," said Hazel Hawkins, 75, of her late husband Tom Hawkins, in whose memory she established the Tom and Hazel Hawkins Endowed Scholarship through a planned estate gift of more than... Family members searching a black granite wall for remembrances of their loved ones. A grieving mother touching the engraved name of her son, lost to her decades ago in a war on the other side of the world. These moments were observed not at the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., but at another memorial wall, this one in Asheville. On Saturday, Sept. 28, more than 200 respectful citizens gathered at the Charles George VA Medical Center for the dedication of the hospital's new Vietnam War Memorial, a monument honoring all Vietnam veterans and dedicated to the western North Carolina vetera... CREDITORS NOTICE Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Gussie Lee Capps, deceased, late of Transylvania County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 27th day of December, 2018, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment. Carol Lee Case, Executrix of the Estate of Gussie Lee Capps, Deceased John D. Veazey, Esquire Van Winkle, Buck, Wall, Starnes & Davis, P.A. 422 South Main Street... Delta Kappa members (clockwise from bottom), Jane Bell, Betty Padrick, Ruth Anne Wisenauer, Debby Masengill, Sarah Lee Myracle and Cathy Zandecki, participate in a small group discussion. (Courtesy photo) Plans, programs and projects were emphasized at the Sept. 20 meeting of the Gamma Upsilon Chapter of The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International at College Walk. Attendees enjoyed a light meal prepared by Dian Brewton, Carrie Kirby, Debby Masengill and Amy Winston and welcomed Ronnie Peterman, who was the guest of Carol Hamann. Cathy Zandecki led the program on personal experiences and gave prizes to game winners. President Carolyn Steel mentioned several oppor-tunities for involvement beyond the chapter level and introduced discussion on future meals, program ideas and possible projects... The DIY Network is airing a Barnwood Builders episode that features a home in Lake Toxaway designed by Brevards Platt Architecture and constructed by the Platt Management Group, Inc. The episode may be seen on the DIY Network at 11 p.m. on Oct. 7; 2 a.m. on Oct. 8; or 5 p.m. on Oct. 9. The timbers were reclaimed from a hay barn in Ontario and transported to Lake Toxaway when the project started more than two years ago. Barnwood Builders includes a crew of six carpenters from West Virginia who have made a name for themselves not only through their dovetails, but also the... The 2018 WNC Prime of Life Festival is coming to Blue Ridge Community College on Saturday, Oct. 6, and admission is free. Now in its 15th year, the Prime of Life Festival began in Rutherford County, expanded into Polk County, and has grown to include organizations and services in Henderson and Buncombe counties. Rodney Greene, CEO of Time Out Management, the festival organizer, is looking forward to this new expansion. This years event will feature interactive exhibits providing information about the latest in health and wellness services, lifestyle and residential choices and servi... "I will say getting that passed, to me, is just common sense. I think it's overdue. I'm disappointed it took us this long," Portman said in a floor speech Tuesday. "How many people had to die before Congress stood up and did the right thing with regard to telling our own post office you have to provide better screening?" The Great Wall of China was built by a labor force including soldiers, common people and criminals in fact. Emperor Qin Shi Huang is widely recognized as the first man who ordered to build the Great Wall of China; however, it is not him. Early in the Western Zhou Dynasty (1046 - 771 BC), some walls and beacon towers were built. During the Spring and Autumn Period (770BC-276BC), the King Wen of Chu State ordered to build the Fangcheng Wall to protect his state. After the unification of China in Qin Dynasty (221 - 207 BC), Qin Shi Huang commanded to connect and extend the separate walls of previous states to form a complete military defensive line, the Great Wall of China. Many emperors of following dynasties also built the wall, including Han Dynasty (202 BC - 220 AD) and Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644 AD). Soldiers, Common People & Criminals Built the Great Wall of China Who made the Great Wall of China? The soldiers were the main power to build the Great Wall at that time. For example, Emperor Qin Shihuang ordered General Mengtian to lead around 300,000 soldiers to protect the defensive line and build the wall after defeating the Huns. This project took more than 9 years. In order to take care of the soldiers and make them feel settled, the court even arranged for widows to marry them. Besides those soldiers, the Emperor Qin Shihuang also forced common people to join the construction of this project. There were also many other dynasties taking the same actions. In 555, Northern Qi Dynasty (550 577), the emperor used common people to build the wall from Xiakou to Hengzhou, which is more than 450 kilometers (280 miles) long. In the Sui Dynasty (581 - 618 AD), the widows were also forced to work because all the male laborers had been used already. The criminals were forced into labor as punishment. Their hair would be shaved off and made to wear iron rings. During the day, they were ordered to take turns patrolling the wall, while at night, building and extending the wall. They were required to work for 4 years according to laws of Qin Dynasty. How many people were needed to build the Great Wall of China? There is no accurate answer for how many people worked on the Great Wall of China as the construction lasted for over 2,500 years. Here is some rough estimation based on historical records. In Qin Dynasty, Emperor Qin Shi Huang sent about 300,000 soldiers and 500,000 common people to the construction sites; some experts estimated it 20% of the countrys population, nearly one million. About 100,000 people were taken to build the wall in 446, during the Northern Wei Dynasty (386 534). In Northern Qi Dynasty (550 577), the wall from Xiakou to Hengzhou used 1.8 million laborers to build. The wall of Sui Dynasty (581 - 618) in Inner Mongolia used about one million people. How many people died building the Great Wall of China? For the not well-developed productivity in ancient times, there was no doubt that the construction of the Great Wall could be a disaster for common people, and so many people lost their lives during the project. During the Qin Dynasty (221 - 207 BC) only, nearly one million people was forced to build it. But only tens of thousands of them survived from the heavy work and difficult conditions. That is to say, those died from the building of the Great Wall reached almost one million. Some of them may have starved to death, some may have died from excessive fatigue and some may even have been flogged to death. Are there dead bodies in the Great Wall of China? According to the situation at that time, it was very likely to bury the dead bodies under or near the Great Wall. Due to the heavy construction work, the controllers would not like to waste time to send the dead bodies away for burial. The legend Meng Jiangnu's Bitter Weeping is also a proof of this. It was about a wife who cried on the Great Wall and wept the section into collapse where her husband was buried. However, this guess has not been proved true since none of the dead bodies have been found under or near the wall yet. The Legendary Origin of the Great Wall Construction Once upon a time, Emperor Qin Shihuang was attracted by a kind of necromancy, which made him generate a strong desire of immortality because he thought his empire could be safe and strong as long as he was immortal. At the same time, a necromancer called Lusheng gradually gained the trust of Qin Shihuang. Qin Shihuang spent a great deal of efforts to seek the elixir, but all of these actions ruined. He asked Lusheng to find the god for guidance. When Lusheng came back, he brought a book which recorded that the Huns would end the Qin Empire. Qin Shihuang finally found an aim to abreact his upset and he ordered the general Mengtian to conquer the Huns. When the soldiers defeated the Huns, Qin Shihuang still worried so much because the Huns had no fixed camps and the safety of the empire could not be guaranteed forever. As a result, Qin Shihuang decided to ask the soldiers, common people and criminals to connect and extend the walls of previous states to defend and attack the Huns more easily. Questions & Answers on China Embassy in Australia graham hogg from AUSTRALIA | May. 24, 2021 17:58 Reply Reply Asked byfrom AUSTRALIA | May. 24, 2021 17:58 my wife is Chinese, we live in Darwin, Nothern Territory, her passport expires in December 2021, how does she renew it and how much does it cost Answers (1) Leo | May. 25, 2021 02:27 0 0 Reply Reply Answered by| May. 25, 2021 02:27 She could make an appoinment at ppt.mfa.gov.cn/appo/index.html to renew her passport. Cynthia Lee from AUSTRALIA | Feb. 17, 2021 17:43 Reply Reply Asked byfrom AUSTRALIA | Feb. 17, 2021 17:43 HKSAR Passport Renewal I would like to confirm the address for CDCM in Canberra to post a HKSAR passport renewal application registered mail as follows: 15 Coronation Drive Yarralumla ACT 2600 Thank you... Answers (1) Julie | Feb. 25, 2021 00:15 0 0 Reply Reply Answered by| Feb. 25, 2021 00:15 Yes, this is the right address. Susan | Aug. 31, 2020 17:36 Reply Reply Asked by| Aug. 31, 2020 17:36 Chinese passport renew Hello, my Chinese passport has expired in July 2020, I could not renew it in Sydney as Chinese consulate has been closed since April 6 due to the covid-19, can i renew it in Canberra? Thanks Answers (1) Doris | Sep. 03, 2020 02:00 0 0 Reply Reply Answered by| Sep. 03, 2020 02:00 You can have a try. Wendy Lo from AUSTRALIA | Aug. 26, 2020 19:24 Reply Reply Asked byfrom AUSTRALIA | Aug. 26, 2020 19:24 Renewal of HKSAR Passport in Canberra Hello, My son's HKSAR Passport is due to expired by the end of the year. He is 15 years old and is now studying in Australia. I would like to enquire on how I should proceed on the renewal of his passport in Canberra, Australia. Thank you. Answers (1) Emily | Aug. 30, 2020 23:23 0 0 Reply Reply Answered by| Aug. 30, 2020 23:23 He can renew this passport at the Chinese embassy in Australia. For details, please browse the website of the embassy. What is China National Day? Chinese National Day is celebrated on October 1st every year to commemorate the founding of Peoples Republic of China. On that day, lots of large-scaled activities are held nationwide. The 7-day holiday from Oct. 1st to 7th is called 'Golden Week', during which a large number of Chinese people go traveling around the country. 2022 Chinese National Day Holiday Schedule Oct. 1 (Sat) Oct. 2 (Sun) Oct. 3 (Mon) Oct. 4 (Tue) Oct. 5 (Wed) Oct. 6 (Thu) Oct. 7 (Fri) 3 days' legal holiday deferred holiday for Oct. 1 (Sat) deferred holiday for Oct. 2 (Sun) advance leave for Oct. 8 (Sat) advance leave for Oct. 9 (Sun) * Note: The holiday dates are Oct. 1st to 7th, 2022. People will be on duty on Oct. 8 (Sat) and Oct. 9 (Sun). What is National Day Golden Week holiday in China? Beijing Tiananmen Tower on National Day The legal holiday for Chinese National Day is 3 days in mainland China, 2 days in Macau and 1 day in Hong Kong. In mainland, the 3 days are usually connected with the weekends ahead and after, hence people can enjoy a 7-day holiday from Oct. 1st to 7th, which is the so-called 'Golden Week'. Why is it called Golden Week? Falling in autumn season with clear weather and comfortable temperatures, Chinese National Day holiday is a golden time for travel. It is the longest public holiday in China besides the Chinese New Year. The weeklong holiday enables both short-distance and long-distance trips, resulting in a boom of tourist revenue, as well as an overwhelming tourist crowd. Origin of China National Day October 1st 1949 was the memorial day for the founding of the Peoples Republic of China. One thing should be noted is that the PRC was not founded on that day. Actually the Chinese independence day was September 21st 1949. The grand ceremony held at Tiananmen Square on October 1st 1949 was to celebrate the forming of the Central People's Government of the brand new country. Later on October 2nd 1949, the new government passed the Resolution on the National Day of the People's Republic of China and declared October 1 to be the Chinese National Day. Ever since 1950, every October 1st has been grandly celebrated by Chinese people. Oct. 1st Military Review & Parade in Beijing On the Tiananmen Square in Beijing, altogether 14 military reviews have been held on October 1st since 1949. The most representative and influential ones include the military reviews on the founding ceremony, the 5th anniversary, 10th anniversary, 35th anniversary, 50th anniversary and 60th anniversary. Those impressive military reviews have attracted people from both home and abroad to watch. Following the military reviews are usually huge parades by common people to express their patriotic feelings. The Military Review & Parade is now held in a small scale every 5 years and in a large scale every 10 years. Other Celebration Activities Other activities like flag-raising ceremonies, dance and song shows, firework displays and painting and calligraphy exhibitions are also held to celebrate the National Day. If one loves shopping, National Day holiday is a great time, for many shopping malls offer big discounts during the holiday. Celebration on Tiananmen Square, Beijing Festooned Vehicles Golden Week Travel Tips During the Golden Week, lots of Chinese go traveling. It leads to a sea of people at attraction sites; train tickets difficult to get; flight tickets cost more than usual; and hotel rooms in short supply To make your travel in China easier and more comfortable, here are some tips for reference: 1. If possible, avoid traveling during the Golden Week. One can make it just before or after the crowding period. During those time periods, there are usually fewer tourists, the cost is comparatively lower, and the visit is more satisfying. 2. If one really needs to travel during the Chinese National Day holiday, try to avoid the first two days and the last day of the Golden Week. Because they are the busiest time for transportation system, when the flight tickets are highest and train and long-distance bus tickets are hardest to buy. Also, the first two days are usually the most crowded at the attraction sites, especially the famous ones. 3. Avoid hot destinations. These places are always crowded of visitors during the Golden Week. Choose some not so famous tourism cities and attractions, where there are fewer visitors and one can enjoy the scene more leisurely. 4. Book flight / train tickets and hotel rooms in advance. There may be more discounts for flight tickets if one books earlier. For trains in China, the tickets are available 60 days prior to departure. The thing is the train tickets may be booked up in minutes once available, so please be prepared. The hotel rooms in hot travel destinations are also in demand. In case there is no place to stay, one should better book them in advance too. If one happens to book rooms upon arrival, try your luck at some business hotels. Bustling Nanjing Road, Shanghai Crowded Railway Station during the Holiday More Tips on China National Day Useful Booking Tools: China Flights China Trains Photography award-winning Lin and Jirsa is launching the outstanding romantic oceanside photoshoot giveaway, available for couples who want to celebrate their love, engagement, or marriage. The 3-hour photoshoot will be carried out by Lin and Jirsa Photography and the lucky winning couple will also enjoy a superb two-night stay at the Pasea Hotel & Spa in Huntington Beach, California. 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Each contestant must be 18 years of age or older and have the ability to travel to Southern California for the event. Complete rules and information can be found at https://www.linandjirsablog.com/romantic-oceanside-photoshoot-giveaway/. About LIN AND JIRSA LIN AND JIRSA backs its work by an in-depth technical and artistic expertise. The company's time-tested couple and wedding photography style is inspired by wedding photojournalism and influenced by fine-art and fashion photography. The team at LIN AND JIRSA is not only priding itself being photographers but rather artists who create meaningful and unique imagery. ### Treehugger and our third-party partners use cookies and process personal data like unique identifiers based on your consent to store and/or access information on a device, display personalized ads and for content measurement, audience insight, and product development. To change or withdraw your consent choices for Treehugger.com, including your right to object where legitimate interest is used, click below. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page. These choices will be signaled globally to our partners and will not affect browsing data. List of Partners (vendors) TRENTON The Board of Education conducted a second executive session to discuss merit pay for Superintendent Fred McDowell after formally ending its Sept. 24 meeting, board minutes show. A government accountability advocate said the decision to adjourn the meeting and then hold another executive session once the meeting was over had the effect of misleading the public. John Paff, executive director of the Libertarians for Transparent Government, said the boards action violated the Open Public Meetings Act, supporting previous assertions from city leaders who are convinced the board took an unrecorded dark vote on whether McDowell deserves about $25,000 in performance-based merit pay. The public has 45 days from the day of the alleged violation of the states Sunshine Law to file a complaint with a state court judge, said Paff, who is also treasurer for a nonprofit transparency group that successfully sued the Trenton BOE over OPMA violations in 2014. This was something controversial, Paff said. This wasnt like they voted to pay an electric bill. They should recognize that what theyve done looks very, very bad, and they should hold a special meeting and do it by the numbers, by the book. And if they dont do that, theyre basically asking for someone to file a [complaint.] The board is under increasing pressure to re-do the controversial vote after Mayor Reed Gusciora told The Trentonian he came away convinced after a conversation with board president Gene Bouie the approval of McDowells merit pay form was conducted in executive session. Before a judge could make any determination about whether the board violated the OPMA, a formal complaint would have to be filed. The mayor previously said the city law department may take action to correct what he believed was an illegal vote. Last week, Bouie, who was out of the country at the time, denied in a phone interview with The Trentonian the accusation that he told the mayor the vote was done in closed session. He said the vote was properly conducted in public, as required by the OPMA, around 11:40 p.m. By that time, he said, all members of the public had left the meeting. Audio recording of the meeting obtained by The Trentonian doesnt support Bouies claims that a public vote occurred on McDowells merit pay. Though they are reflected in the minutes, votes on other matters discussed in executive session also were not recorded. The recording stopped, and never resumed, once the board entered into the initial executive session. Leaders from the Trenton Education Association, who have called on board members to resign over the merit pay flap, said they were troubled by The Trentonians latest revelation. They seized on an admission from the school district that board secretary Jayne Howard, who normally audio records and takes minutes of the meeting, left the meeting prior to any vote on McDowells pay. It does not say they adjourned to return to executive session, former Trenton Education Association President Naomi Johnson-Lafleur said after reviewing the minutes. Its an illegal vote, and it was an illegal executive session. She was pointing to a section of the meeting minutes documenting the boards motion to enter into executive session. The minutes stated that a motion was made and properly seconded to adjourn the meeting into Executive Session. That was inconsistent from the language used before the board reconvened into executive session for a second time. In that case, the minutes stated that a motion was made and properly seconded to adjourn the meeting at 10:50 p.m. Meeting minutes reflect that board members entered into the first executive session meeting at 8:44 p.m. The board was required under OPMA to adopt a resolution that disclosed to the public the general reasons and matters they would be discussing during the closed session. The minutes show board president Bouie complied by reading the resolution. The board resolution indicated to the public, according to the minutes, that it would be discussing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Trenton Education Secretaries Association, a legal invoice for a matter that required arbitration, and myriad employment issues. Those employment issues included a teachers fit for duty examination, tenure charges as well as the superintendents revised merit goal submission form. The board emerged from the initial executive session at 10:46 p.m. and voted on three matters discussed during the initial closed session, the minutes show. McDowells merit pay was not voted on at that point, the minutes show. After those matters were voted on, the board adjourned the meeting at 10:50 p.m. At that time, Howard, who would have been responsible for taking the minutes, left the meeting. She wasnt the only one who left. A state school monitor also left, according to TEA officials who earlier in the night spoke out against merit pay. Johnson-Lafleur said the teachers union had people who remained at the meeting until around 11 p.m. Johnson-Lafleur said Wednesday her people left the meeting because they believed it was over, which was reflected in the minutes that showed the board entered into a second executive session to discuss McDowells merit pay right after concluding the meeting. The minutes contained a note that indicated the school districts general counsel James Rolle Jr. recorded the minutes once Howard departed. The board claims it re-emerged from executive session at 11:45 p.m. once everyone cleared out after being informed the meeting was adjourned and board members voted unanimously to submit McDowells approved merit pay form to interim county superintendent Yasmin Hernandez-Manno, according to the minutes. Despite repeated requests for interviews, school district officials have refused to explain why the vote on McDowells merit pay wasnt conducted once the board emerged from the first executive session at 10:46 p.m. School officials also refused to explain why the boards vote wasnt recorded, despite minutes that indicate all board members voted in favor of approving the merit pay form. Rolle didnt respond to repeated emails requesting an explanation for why Howard left the meeting. TEA officials claim Bouie, who also didnt respond to additional requests for comment, asked Howard to leave. Howard hasnt responded to requests for comment. Paff said he understood why community stakeholders are outraged and urged them to take action to undo the vote. An adjournment is an adjournment. That, to me, is not a very complex question, he said. That is the signal to the public that the meeting is over. I would be distressed too if five minutes after I left the meeting the board huddled back together. Thats preposterous. Staff writer Sulaiman Abdur-Rahman contributed to this report TRENTON Mayor Reed Gusciora got his guys with few questions and little fight. City council members, dispensing with the mean-spirited melodrama for part of the meeting, voted unanimously Tuesday to confirm the appointments of acting law director John Morelli and municipal judge Harold George. Morelli became the first member of Guscioras cabinet to be approved by the legislative body to serve out the remainder of the mayors four-year term. George was already serving as a municipal judge in a holdover capacity after former Mayor Eric Jacksons failed bid in 2016 to replace him with one of three appointees. At-large councilman Jerell Blakeley and South Ward councilman George Muschal, rarely in unison on any topic, lauded the mayors picks as fine and great choices. Very nice, Gusciora said of the squabble-free rubber-stamping of his two legal picks. Very nice isnt a term used often to describe this belligerent bunch. But if just for a few moments, the legislative body parted with the divisiveness long enough to make George, a respected figure who has been on Trentons municipal bench for over a decade, serving several stints as chief judge over four of those years. George, who is also a municipal judge in Willingboro, came to council chambers decked out in a crisp blue suit, a red bowtie and snazzy maroon shoes. George, who nodded his head in quiet approval following councils unanimous vote, was reappointed through October 2021 after his future remained on the Trenton bench remained in flux under Jackson. Local attorneys fiercely defended George when the former mayor tried to boot him off the municipal bench two years ago. George previously survived Jacksons push to replace him with one of three appointees William Sitzler, Geraldine Eure and Emilia Perez, all of whom were voted down. The councils rejection of Jacksons appointees saved George from the ax but put him in a precarious holding pattern, Mayor Reed Gusciora said. Justice was indeed done, the former municipal prosecutor said in lauding George for running a congenial court. Jacksons second attempt to get Sitzler on the municipal bench, which drew sharp criticism, also failed although the legislative body did approve Eure as a part-time judge in a second go-around. Council had few questions prior to green-lighting George, who said he didnt look at his reappointment as vindication following Jacksons thwarted judicial coup. He said he was gratified to be given the opportunity to continue working in the best job hes had in his professional life. Like the judge, Morelli faced little questioning as council was apparently in a genial mood. Morelli, a former city attorney, was elevated to acting law director when former law director Walter Denson resigned once the Gusciora administration took office. The legislative body accepted Guscioras description of Morelli as a highly respected certified civil attorney who would be indispensable as the city prepares to defend against a flurry of expected lawsuits over the Art All Night shootout that injured dozens of festival-goers earlier this year. I think we need somebody who is seasoned and experienced, Gusciora said, to mitigate the citys liability over the Fathers Day carnage. Morelli graduated from Rutgers University School of Law and was admitted to the New Jersey bar in December 1981. He opened and ran what he described as a thriving private law practice before joining the city last year as an assistant attorney. Morelli dissolved the practice and another firm, the Cherry Hill-based Jacobs, Schwalbe and Petruzzelli, for which he serves in an of counsel position, absorbed his clients. The new law director said his of counsel responsibilities are minimal and had only been to the firm once in recent months. Morelli, who also served as a municipal judge in Stratford Township, has cleared his docket now that hes the citys go-to for legal advice. He was up for reappointment in Stratford this week but told the clerk to hold off, knowing he was up for advice and consent in Trenton. Morelli explained to the legislative body he will resign from the Stratford municipal bench to focus 100 percent on his responsibilities to the capital city. sanjiv@tribunemail.com Bengaluru, October 2 Tesla Inc announced record quarterly car production numbers on Tuesday but warned it was facing major problems with selling cars in China due to new tariffs that will force it to accelerate investment in its factory in Shanghai. The California-based electric carmaker, emerging from several months of turmoil around its chief executive Elon Musk, confirmed numbers leaked to an industry news site on Monday that showed it produced roughly 80,000 cars in the third quarter. Deliveries reached a record 83,500, above Wall Street estimates of 80,000 and including almost 56,000 of the Model 3 sedan whose ramp-up is widely seen as crucial to the companys drive to become profitable. That overshadowed concerns expressed by the company over a 40% tariff being charged by China for the import of its cars, which it said was blocking sales in the worlds biggest electric car market. Shares gained 0.5 percent at the open. Yes it sounds like the tariff comments could haircut some of their profit plans but the production ramp is very impressive and it should continue to move higher, analyst Chaim Siegel of Elazar Advisors said. The companys at an inflection point for units and profit. Tesla did say that it had missed its weekly Model 3 production target on Tuesday and outlined a series of barriers it faced due to the worsening of President Donald Trumps trade war with China. The electric car maker said it was speeding up construction of its Shanghai factory as it seeks to combat a huge competitive disadvantage against other producers and even other imported cars, which it said are carrying a lower 15% tariff. Tesla is now operating at a 55% to 60% cost disadvantage compared to the exact same car locally produced in China, the company said. Musk in July landed a deal with Chinese authorities to build a new auto plant in Shanghai, its first factory outside the United States, which would double the size of the electric car makers global manufacturing. The company flagged the tariff issue in August but said only that it was likely to have some impact on Chinese volumes and would not heavily affect global vehicle deliveries. With production stabilised, delivery and outbound vehicle logistics were our main challenges during Q3, the company said on Tuesday. We made many improvements to these processes throughout the quarter, and plan to make further improvements in Q4 so that we can scale successfully. Tesla produced over 5,300 Model 3 cars in the last week of September, falling short of its target of 6,000. Overall in the third quarter the company produced 53,239 of the cars in the third quarter, in line with its target of 50,000 to 55,000 Model 3s, and delivered 55,840 of the vehicles to customers. Tesla first met a long-held target of 5,000 vehicles per week at the end of June after a series of production bottlenecks and delays. Since then the company has been striving to sustain and increase that level. Reuters Over 80,000 cars sold in third quarter sanjiv@tribunemail.com Bhopal, October 2 The Madhya Pradesh cabinet tdoay decided to provide subsidy to airlines which operate flights under the Centres regional connectivity scheme UDAN from airstrips or airports in the state. The cabinet at its meeting here approved `Aviation Policy 2018 for the state, said Public Relations Minister Narottam Mishra. The subsidy will be paid to aviation companies which are registered under the Centres UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, the minister said. The state government has decided to grant subsidy to the aircraft (to the airlines operating them) that land on airstrips in the state. Necessary provision for this has been made in the aviation policy, Mishra told reporters here. Commissioner, Public Relations P Narhari said a subsidy of Rs 40,000 would be paid to the concerned airline on every landing of a nine-seater passenger aircraft. For 10-20 seater planes, the subsidy per landing would be Rs 80,000. The amount would be Rs 1.50 lakh for 21-80 seater aircraft and Rs 2 lakh for those with bigger capacity, he said. PTI editorial@tribune.com Ramkrishan Upadhyay Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 3 The decision of Chief Administrator-cum-Finance Secretary Ajoy Kumar Sinha setting aside an order passed by the Estate Office for charging a transfer fee of Rs 81 lakh on account of re-transfer of a property has revived the hope of 83-year-old Bimla Devi, who has been fighting for the transfer of the property in her name for the past 38 years. This is a unique case in which the Estate Office failed to transfer the property for the past 38 years, ignoring the orders of the Chief Administrator and the Adviser to the Administrator. Finally, last week, the Chief Administrator directed the Estate Officer to consider the case of the applicant afresh and take a judicious decision in the matter taking into consideration the earlier orders passed by the Chief Administrator and the Adviser to the Administrator within four months. Bimla Devi, a resident of Sector 19, challenged the decision of the Estate Office, dated December 19, 2016, issued by the Assistant Estate Officer whereby the appellant was asked to deposit transfer charges of Rs 81 lakh on account of re-transfer of House No. 1242, Sector 19-B. Bimla Devi purchased the site in an open auction in 1974, but she failed to make the entire payment. The Estate Office cancelled the site on December 18, 1976. The appellant then filed an application on February 22, 1980, requesting the Estate Office to re-transfer the plot under Rule 21 of Chandigarh Leasehold of Sites and Building Rules. She also deposited Rs 25,000, which was accepted by the Estate Officer. The Estate Office again demanded the outstanding dues from the applicant. Later, the Estate Office, vide a letter dated June 9, 2008, rejected her claim as Rule 21 of the Chandigarh Leasehold of Sites and Building Rules stood repealed by the Administration in 2007. editorial@tribune.com Bhartesh Singh Thakur Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 2 After their mother tongue, city residents are more proficient in English followed by Hindi and Punjabi. However, the percentage of people with proficiency in English has declined from 2001 to 2011. The census report on bilingualism and trilingualism, released recently, has provided data on the two languages in order of preference in which a person is proficient other than the mother tongue. The data was collected in 2011. An analysis of the data of the first subsidiary language brings English at the top. However, the percentage of people having proficiency in the language has dipped from close to 33 per cent in 2001 to over 26 per cent in 2011. The percentage of people with expertise in Hindi has seen a jump from 13.2 to 14.8 in 10 years. Punjabi has also seen a jump from 11 per cent to 13 per cent, but it has hardly made any connect with Maithalis, Malayalese, Bengalis, Odias and Tamils. The highest population in Chandigarh is of those with Hindi as the mother tongue at over 73 per cent. Over 26 per cent of them returned their expertise in English, while over 17 per cent returned Punjabi. However, if we compare it with the 2001 census data, over 31 per cent were proficient in English and over 16 per cent had returned Punjabi. The expertise in English has dipped, but in Punjabi, it has marginally increased. Among Punjabi speakers, 27.6 per cent returned English as their first subsidiary language, while those with proficiency in Hindi stand at over 55 per cent. In 2001, people with Punjabi as the mother tongue had 39 per cent population expressing proficiency in English and 40 per cent expressing more knowledge about Hindi than any other language. So, overall Hindi expertise has risen and that in English has dipped. Among the Tamil-speaking population, the percentage of people preferring Hindi has jumped from 42.8 in 2001 to 59.6 in 2011. On the other hand, English as the first subsidiary language has come down from 15.6 per cent to 10.3 per cent in 10 years. On similar lines, the preference of Hindi among Telugu-speaking people has jumped to 48.2 per cent from 33.1 per cent in 10 years and that of English has reduced from 46.6 per cent in 2001 to 33 per cent. The interest of the Malayalam-speaking population in Hindi has increased. The percentage of people preferring Hindi has jumped from 31.8 in 2001 to 46.1 in 2011. However, there is a big dip in returning English as the first subsidiary language. In 2001, it was 53.5 per cent, but it dipped to 37.9 per cent in 2011. Punjabi has failed to attract people from other states. Proficiency in English is high in Chandigarh because of migration of upper and middle class people from other states. Those belonging to southern states are showing preference for Hindi because it is the link language. Punjabi is not the link language. Hindi is also compulsory in schools, so the second-generation people are more likely to return Hindi as their first subsidiary language after the mother tongue, said Prof Aswini Kumar Nanda, Population Research Centre, Centre for Research in Rural and Industrial Development (CRRID). Jump in People with expertise in Hindi An analysis of the data of the first subsidiary language brings English at the top. However, the percentage of people having proficiency in the language has dipped from close to 33 per cent in 2001 to over 26 per cent in 2011. The percentage of people with expertise in Hindi has seen a jump from 13.2 to 14.8 in 10 years. Punjabi has also seen a jump from 11 per cent to 13 per cent, but it has hardly made any connect with Maithalis, Malayalese, Bengalis, Odias and Tamils. editorial@tribune.com Our Correspondent Zirakpur, October 3 A 44-year-old property dealer allegedly committed suicide by shooting himself with a pistol at his residence here this evening. The deceased, identified as Vineet Thukral, a resident of Spangle Heights in Dhakoli, shot himself in the head with a pistol of his friend that he had brought from Delhi. The police are yet to establish whether the weapon was licensed. The police said Vineet, who hailed from Gurugram, had shifted to Dhakoli six months ago and was staying with his family. The police received information about the incident at 6 pm and rushed to the spot. The pistol used in the incident and a suicide note alleging harassment at the hands of a financier were recovered from the spot, said the police, adding that the body had been sent for a postmortem to the Civil Hospital, Dera Bassi. Though a probe is underway to ascertain the reason behind the extreme step, it has been learnt that Vineet was upset as a financier, Yogesh Vohra, a resident of Delhi, was harassing him for the past several days. Upset with the harassment, Vineet locked himself in his room this evening and reportedly shot himself in the head, said sources. The victims wife and their 15-year-old daughter were at home when the incident took place. After hearing the gunshot, his wife and daughter rushed to the room and found Vineet lying inside with a gunshot injury on his head, said the sources. Harmandeep Hans, ASP, Dera Bassi, said the matter was being investigated to find out whether it was a property or money dispute. The pistol belonged to a friend of the victim, who is also from Delhi. We will summon him for further investigation, the police said. A case has been registered against the financier at the Dhakoli police station. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 2 The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Department of Science and Technology (DST), has awarded a project of Rs 30.58 lakh to Dr JS Sehrawat of the Department of Anthropology, Panjab University, for scientific analyses of Ajnala skeletal remains under the Core Research Grant of Animal Sciences. Human skeletal remains, reportedly belonging to 282 Indian soldiers massacred by the British at Ajnala during the 1857 revolt, were handed over to Dr JS Sehrawat and Prof RK Pathak, Department of Anthropology, for biological profiling of the remains. Professor Pathak died recently and now the sole responsibility of their identification rests with Dr Sehrawat. No financial assistance was provided by the Punjab Government for the work. Preliminary scientific analyses of some randomly selected human skeletal remains were carried out either in collaboration with leading scientific institutions of international repute like the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, Birbal Sahni Institute of Paleosciences, Lucknow, IIT-Roorkee, SDM College of Dental Sciences, Dharwad (Karnataka), and Cranfield Forensic Institute, Swindon (UK). In the meantime, the team obtained ethical clearance from Panjab University Institutional Ethics Committee for studying the Ajnala skeletal remains from different perspectives. On the advice of the then Panjab University Vice-Chancellor Arun Grover and the Director, Research Promotion Cell of the university, Dr Sehrawat and Professor Pathak submitted a research proposal for funding to the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Department of Science and Technology (DST). The aim was the scientific analyses of the remains under the Extra Mural Project, now the Core Research Grant under Animal Sciences. The above funding agency granted a research project amounting to Rs 30,58,000, informed Dr Sehrawat. Though the said amount is not sufficient enough for studying such a huge collection of skeletal remains and personal artifacts, I will try my best to give identity to as many remains as possible. We are in the process of having some research agreements with some international and national institutes for stable isotope analysis and mitochondrial DNA analysis of the remains to reduce expenses for studying these remains and give them respect after more 160 years of their death, said Dr Sehrawat. G Parthasarathy G Parthasarathy Former High Commissioner to Pakistan THE External Affairs Ministrys spokesman announced on September 20 that in response to the spirit reflected in letters from the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, India had agreed to Pakistan PM Imran Khans proposal for a meeting between foreign ministers of the two countries in New York, during the UN General Assembly session. The very next day, following the killing of three J&K police personnel, the spokesman sang a different tune: It is obvious that behind Pakistans proposal for talks to make a fresh beginning, the evil agenda of Pakistan stands exposed and the true face of the new Prime Minister of Pakistan has been revealed to the world, in his first few months in office. While a change in New Delhis approach to the dialogue was understandable, there are serious misgivings about the crude, undiplomatic references to Pakistan PM. Despite provocation, we have never personally criticised the head of government of a neighbouring country in such terms, even while dealing with governments headed by military rulers like Zia-ul-Haq and Pervez Musharraf, or democratic ones like Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif. An aide of Sharif approached me during the Kargil conflict to request Vajpayee, who would naturally be angered at what had transpired, to not criticise his counterpart. The astute Vajpayee acceded to the request. What followed was a standoff between Sharif and Musharraf that ended with the coup that led to Sharifs exile to Saudi Arabia. A similar approach was adopted during provocative postures by Musharraf during the Agra Summit and the JeM attack on our Parliament. Interestingly, it was the same Musharraf, who thereafter solemnly declared that territory under Pakistans control would not be used for terrorism against India. Musharraf abided by that commitment as long as he was in direct control of the army, for around three years. Thus, while personal criticism of Imran Khan and General Bajwa are best avoided, there need be no bar on scathing attacks on Pakistans government and military for acts of omission and commission. Imrans background has been one of rise to power on the shoulders of the army. The notorious former Islamist ISI chief, Lt Gen Hamid Gul, was a dominant founding member of Imrans party. Imran was elected PM primarily because of the armys determination to get rid of Sharif. We should, therefore, have no doubt that at least in the near future, Imran will be guided primarily by the military on relations with India, Afghanistan, the US and China. But Pakistans policies are shaped by circumstances and not consistency, or principles. Moreover, rather than pouring cold water over his calls for dialogue, India would be well advised to agree to engage Pakistan diplomatically, to assess its sincerity on addressing issues of cross-border terrorism, his espousal of closer economic ties, and his desire to host the SAARC Summit, which has been opposed by Afghanistan, Bangladesh and India, duly backed by Bhutan. The fact that Imran has chosen not to appoint a national security adviser (NSA), a meeting between NSAs is ruled out. In any case, our experience has been that the only two NSAs that Pakistan has had Major Gen Mehmood Durrani and Lt Gen Nasser Khan Janjua were bereft of any real decision-making powers. Foreign policy and terrorist infrastructure are controlled by the army chief. Talks between DGMOs are meaningless, as the Pakistani DGMO is a junior Major Gen, with little or no discretionary authority. The Chief of General Staff (CGS) wields real authority in the GHQ, Rawalpindi. Thus, for meaningfully talks, meetings between the head of R&AW and the DG (ISI), on the one hand, and Pakistans CGS and the Indian Armys Vice-Chief, on the other, are imperative. It is also time to call Imrans bluff on his professed desire for greater trade ties. India and Pakistan are signatories to the South Asian Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA), which came into force in 2006. Pakistan is the only country in South Asia which has not implemented it. It continues to ban the import of a massive range of Indian products. This discriminatory ban, contrary to the provisions of SAFTA, needs to be removed by Imran. Moreover, Pakistan agreed to the schedule set in 2004, for South Asian countries to establish a South Asian Customs Union, and thereafter a South Asian Economic Union by 2020. Pakistan remains the sole country, stalling movement on economic integration in South Asia. Imran is keen on having an early SAARC Summit in Islamabad, but the reality is that it is not just India, but also Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India and Bhutan who have felt uneasy about having the summit in a country sponsoring terrorism across South Asia. Pakistan will have to address these concerns. It will also have to halt its constant propaganda for its all-weather friend China, which like other non-South Asian countries, is an observer in SAARC meetings, to be made a full member of SAARC. It is also time Pakistan realised that after India invited BIMSTEC, and not SAARC members, to attend the Goa BRICS Summit, the importance of SAARC is secondary to BIMSTEC, which is a grouping set to link South and South East Asia with better connectivity, free trade and investment, and even enhanced military ties. Moreover, denial of connectivity between India and Afghanistan by Pakistan constitutes a gross violation of the SAARC Free Trade Agreement With the commissioning of Irans Chahbahar Port, Pakistan will be a major loser in economic integration across Indias western borders. Radhika Ramaseshan Radhika Ramaseshan Senior Journalist The Supreme Courts 2-1 verdict on the Ayodhya dispute, pronounced on September 27, has activated one set of protagonists that played lead and back-up roles at various twists and turns of a long-drawn historical saga, that began in 1528 when Mir Baqi, a commander in Mughal emperor Baburs army, constructed the Babri mosque allegedly on the site of a Hindu temple dedicated to Rama. The storied chronicle is dotted with milestones aplenty, shaped by myths and facts. A determining moment came on December 6, 1992 when the mosque was razed to debris by sadhus and sundry clerics and activists of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the BJP, who were inspired and guided by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to put up a stunning display of Hindu militancy that reverberated beyond the tiny temple town. VHPs holy veneer The VHP, that has shrunk to a shadow of its feisty self in the BJP's present regime, will meet on October 5 in Delhi to assess the implications of the verdict before drawing up an agenda and discussing ways of re-connecting with the clergy that has become indifferent to the crusade for raising a Ram temple because of the BJPs reluctance to enact a law in Parliament and the interminable judicial delays in seeking a closure. Unless and until the VHP can put a holy veneer by re-activating the sadhus and mahants and painting the next stage of its agitation in saffron, its effort to revive memories of the eighties and nineties will be futile. Till the court spoke out its mind, the VHP was reduced to being a citizens club working on issues like edifying Delhi's citizens on traffic protocol. To start with, the clergy is going its separate way. It has convened a dharmadesh convention in Delhis Talkatora Stadium on November 3 and 4 with a political objective. The congregation of dharmacharya, mahamandaleshwar, peethadeesh and mahants from all over India, with a chunk from Uttar Pradesh, is expected to pay homage to those who were martyred in police firings in Ayodhya in 1990 and in Delhi in 1966 during protests to demand a ban on cow slaughter. Mulayam Singh Yadav, the Samajwadi Party patriarch, was the UP Chief Minister in the first instance while Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister when the sadhus besieged Parliament. Therefore, a full-blown tirade, framed in the secular-versus-communal paradigm, would be launched. As Rajesh Pradhan, who authored a book, When the Saints Go Marching In: The Curious Ambivalence of Religious Sadhus in Recent Politics in India, and quoted, among numerous others, Mahant Avaidyanth, a leading light of the temple "movement", said for the sadhus, political activism was the product of decades of discontent, for which the Ramjanmabhoomi was a catalyst, a crucible out of which such unity emerged. After delivering homilies on tempering the use of language in public speeches, making place for the minorities in a Hindu rashtra and granting political space to all parties by rejecting the BJPs notion of a Congress-mukht Bharat, the RSS sarsanghachalak, Mohanrao Bhagwat, capped his recent three-day discourse for the non-partisan in the national capital with a call to construct a Ram temple exactly where the Babri mosque stood, on Ramas birthplace. Bhagwat conveyed impatience with the judicial hearings, stressing that the truth about the temple-mosque issue must be accepted, however bitter it was. Were his assertions meant to assuage the cadre that might have got confused with his earlier statements, instantly lapped up by some liberals as evidence of a change of heart in the RSS? Whatever the inference, to the Sangh fraternitys faithful, including those in the BJP, a Ram temple still remained Hindutva's most potent symbol. It might not bring to the BJP a bounty of votes, but ignoring Ramas call will damage us grievously, a BJP functionary explained. Decoupling faith, title suit The legal verdict, that effectively de-coupled matters of faith from the main title suit and will begin hearing by a regular Bench of the Supreme Court, abounds with significance for the BJP, the Congress and UP's principal players, the SP and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). In power, the BJP's responses to the temple were diluted with the realisation that in a coalition, it cannot force religious and communal extremism on its allies and if in a majority, as it is at present, it must walk the middle path, abiding by the Constitution and the rule of law, both of which it transgressed in the past. Pitch for 2019 So, the temple was mentioned in an anodyne manner in the election manifestos of the recent past. The pitch for 2019 will be determined by the BJP's assessment of the temple's electoral utility, the impact on its cadre and those of the RSS if the articulation was not sufficiently strong and the course that the court's hearings will take. Although the BJP won the Ayodhya Assembly and Faizabad Lok Sabha (that includes Ayodhya) constituencies several times since 1991, the victory margins were mostly narrow. In the 1991 Assembly election, BJP's candidate Sant Shri Ram Dwivedi trounced his opponent Nishad Sita Ram of the Congress by just 3,557 votes. In the next election in 1993, perceived as a "referendum" on the mosque's demolition, the BJP's victory margin improved to 9,238 votes. The BJP pulled off its best showing in the 2017 Assembly poll when its candidate Ved Prakash Gupta beat Samajwadi's incumbent MLA Tej Narayan Pandey by 50,440 votes. The issues for Ayodhyas voters were not the temple but Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the surgical strikes carried out on the western border. Interesting too will be the Congress response after its president Rahul Gandhi consciously embraced the path of soft Hindutva, hoping to best the BJP at its game. As for the SP and BSP, stung and scorched by the BJP's incessant accusation of being too soft on Muslims, a hands-off Ayodhya approach seemed the most practicable. UPs Muslims have already advised the non-BJP parties to go easy on faith-related subjects and focus on the inclusive ones such as health, education and agriculture in the 2019 election. Manoj Joshi Manoj Joshi Distinguished Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, New Delhi Maybe it is an anomaly, or maybe it is not. India-US relations seem to be running a smooth course in a period whereas Washingtons ties with everyone else are witnessing upheaval. The recently concluded 2+2 ministerial talks were a confirmation that the trend-line of Indo-US relations that began with Indira Gandhis meeting with Ronald Reagan in Cancun in 1981 remains positive. Even so, we need to be careful. Credible reportage of what is happening within the Trump administration is somewhat scary. Bob Woodwards new book, Fear: Trump in the White House, reveals that the inner working of the most powerful office in the world is verging on chaos. An op-ed by Anonymous in New York Times suggesting that there is a band of dedicated officials, call them adult minders if you will, whose aim is to foil and check the Presidents worst urges, is not particularly comforting. How then, are countries friends, allies or adversaries to deal with the worlds most formidable military and economic power going haywire? We in India, have, so far at least, nothing to worry about. But think of Canada, which had US tariffs placed on its industries on grounds of national security, or Turkey whose currency was sent into a tailspin by one presidential tweet. Think, too, of Iran which thought it had a water-tight deal with the Americans, signed, sealed and delivered at the UN. And dont forget Shinzo Abe, who has invested so much in wooing Trump and still remains shut out of the North Korea negotiations, and was told by Trump last June that I remember Pearl Harbor. And then think of the Chinese who have in the short space of a year or so been re-designated as Americas principal adversary. Suddenly, the country that believed that it was in an era of its strategic opportunity finds itself the object of American wrath. We dont know what goes through the minds of leaders like Trudeau, Erdogan, Abe or Modi when they think of Trump. They are all formal or informal allies of the US. The obvious policy response is to hedge and hope for the best. Indeed, despite all the alarums and excursions over the US-South Korea FTA, in the end, the US left the old agreement more or less unchanged. Likewise, the fire and brimstone was more about updating NAFTA than replacing it. The problems of these leaders pale into insignificance when compared to Xi Jinpings perspective. So far the Chinese have hung tough with the US, matching tariff for tariff. But there is every indication that they may have miscalculated the US response and what the US is demanding is what China cannot satisfy to end its dream of becoming a world technological power, a competitor of the US. If they believe that Trump is, indeed, heading a chaotic administration will they be inclined to offer significant concessions to ward off immediate danger? On the other hand, the Chinese may believe that with the US blowing up the world order it created 70 years ago may, indeed, be ushering a real period of strategic opportunity for China. India should not have illusions that it will somehow gain from a full-blown US-China conflict. Too much protectionism will undermine global growth affecting financial flows to India and constraining its exports. And into this, if you inject unpredictable and whimsical policy-making by a US President, we have a recipe for disaster. We can only speculate, but it is possible that the reported disastrous meeting in Manila with Trump in November 2017 persuaded Modi to seek a reset with China in Wuhan. This may not have altered the strategic trajectory of Indias relationship with the US, but it has sought tactical accommodation, maybe till the Trump era blows over. So far the Republican moderates have lined up behind their President and would not want to do anything that would upset the grassroots. But in the two years leading up to the 2020 elections, there could be a shift, engendered not only by the expected losses in November, but also the moderates rediscovering their mojo and a return to the more constitutional forms of checking the President. But we should not have illusions about the direction of US policy. Trump is merely the convenient and somewhat outrageous vehicle for pushing policies which have considerable support in the US. The idea of a global retreat was there in the Obama administration which worked with all its might to wind down US wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and stay away from Syria. There are powerful intellectual voices in the US such as that of Patrick Porter, Graham Allison and others who say that the US should move away from liberal internationalism. The fact is that the US polity is in the state of a civil war since the Clinton administration with the old conventions of accommodation and compromise between the Democrats and Republicans thrown out the window. The US infrastructure is shot, its foreign policy over-militarised and flailing, yet all its Congress is good for is passing tax cuts. If there were any illusions about what kind of a world this envisages, just hear Trumps speech to the UN last month. His point was that the US was sovereign, and each country needed to look out for itself. He belittled international institutions and that in their security, economic policy or diplomacy, nations were better off going on their own. This can only presage a breakdown of the world order as we have known for the past 70 years, the liberal international order championed by the US. Though this order has deep flaws, it is still better than the order that preceded it the one that gave us Hitler, Mussolini, Stalin and Tojo. vermaajay1968@gmail.com On the eve of Gandhis 150th birth anniversary, a picture of his headless statute was circulated on Whatsapp. Nobodys sentiments were hurt, obviously. The decapitation of Gandhi is a message of hatred nurtured by two streams of ideologies, apparently contradictory, but flowing out of the colonial fount. The British could never reconcile to the loss of the Empire to a frail fakir, seemingly meek, speaking the Biblical language of compassion and forgiveness. So, it was no surprise that he was felled by the Empires loyal subjects. The ideology that sought to create the Super Hindu, promoted by a man pardoned by the British, was directly responsible for the Mahatmas murder. Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was not just the intellectual mentor of the assassin, Nathuram Godse, but a co-accused as well. The fact that Nehrus government refused to go on appeal against Savarkars acquittal still remains a mystery. Then there is the other stream of identity politics that has consistently attacked Gandhi in the name of religion and caste. This group was blatantly sponsored by the colonial government through its allies and the Viceroys Executive Council. The proponents of the division of the Indian nation, through separate electorates, in the name of religion and caste were defeated conclusively by Gandhi and the idealists of the national movement. The only woman Scheduled Caste member of the Constituent Assembly, Dakshayani Velayudhan, was a staunch Gandhian. So was everyone, but for those who supported the British. After the economic reforms, with foreign capital coming into publishing and academia, there has been a renewed attempt to de-legitimise Gandhi using the old tools of identity politics. Gandhi had evolved over the years and had continuously revised his views on society. Now, the attempt is to cherry-pick Gandhis statements to fit him into a new construct of casteism and religious conservatism by some writers. This is the prime reason why Gandhi is no longer fashionable in Indian campuses. To be radical is to abuse Gandhi. But it is getting more and more difficult to rescue Gandhi with Savarkars disciples having appropriated him. editorial@tribune.com Tribune Reporters Dharamsala/Palampur, Oct 3 The Kangra administration will press helicopters into service to drop food packets at the Thamsar Pass and Kalahandi at 16,000 feet on Thursday where over 100 shepherds and their 7,000 livestock have been trapped in the snow for the past 10 days. SDM, Baijnath, Vikas Shukla said two search parties had reached the spot and information provided to his office revealed that over 500 sheep had perished. Shukla said the parties had also spotted the body of a shepherd who was buried in the snow last week. He said because of the difficult topographical conditions and bad weather, it was not possible to extract the body and bring it back to Baijnath or Nagrota Bagwan. Due to the possibilities of avalanches, police or other officials could not be sent to the spot. However, efforts would be made to bring the body back for last rites. He said the shepherds were on the way back to lower areas of Kangra when they were caught in heavy snow between Bara Bhangal and Kalahandi hills last week. Kalahandi was covered under four feet of snow. The SDM said Sandeep Kumar, Deputy Commissioner, Kangra, had directed panchayat representatives of Bara Bhangal to provide food and eatables to the shepherds. At present, 400 quintals of foodgrains were available at Bara Bhangal. Chadah Singh, a relative of deceased Rakesh Kumar who had gone to Bara Bhangal, along with the rescue team last Sunday, said he tried to retrieve the body from a deep gorge. However, he could not climb and lift the body on his back. So he left it there wrapping it in a blanket. Inder Gopal, another shepherd, said their family had taken about 500 sheep and goats to Bara Bhangal. However, sudden rain and snow on September 21 and 22 blocked the path. Since most of the bridges over the rivers in the area had collapsed, they could bring back just 50 sheep and goats. The government should compensate him, he said. editorial@tribune.com Syed Ali Ahmed Tribune News Service New Delhi, October 3 The Northern Railways have completed the first location survey for the proposed Leh-Manali railway track project. General Manager, Northern Railways, Vishwesh Chaube said two more surveys were to be carried out and meetings were being conducted in this regard. He said the Northern Railways would decide the construction of railway tracks and stations between Leh and Manali. It would take two years to complete the survey report. The project was very challenging as the Manali-Leh route remained closed for almost five months in a year due to snowfall. He said the Union Government had decided to have rail connectivity up to Leh. The GM said the survey would be a detailed study to know the entire area of interest how challenging the terrain and geology was; whether the railway line could be laid and would it be feasible at all at the required gradient. The actual cost would be known only after the DPR was ready by 2019, sources said, claiming that the proposed Leh-Manali railway line that had a distance of 498 km, once operational, would be the highest in the world, overtaking Chinas Qinghai-Tibet railway. It is one of the four strategic railway lines being built by the Railways to fortify Indias borders with China, the others being Missamari-Tenga-Tawang, North Lakhimpur-Bame (Along)-Silapathar (249 km) and Pasighat-Tezu-Parsuram Kund-Rupai (227 km), the sources said. The Leh-Manali rail project was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security in December 2015. Project was approved in 2015 gspannu7@gmail.com Mukesh Ranjan Tribune news Service New Delhi, October 3 Noting that his followers desire to have him in India, the government today asked Tibetan spiritual leader Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje, who is currently staying in the US, to come back to India. At the same time, the Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed that the Karmapa has acquired the citizenship of Dominican Republic and uses that countrys passport for travel all over the world. A senior MHA official, however, said the spiritual leader appears to be reluctant to return, as he wants unrestricted movement within the country as well as abroad, like the Dalai Lama. The Sikkimese Buddhists who follow the Khagyu sect recognise the 32-year-old Dorje as the real heir of the 16th Karmapa, who passed away in 1981. He is also recognised by the Dalai Lama. The Centre had banned entry of all claimants to the title of Karmapa to the Rumtek monastery in East Sikkim in 1994. The Sikkim government has written several times and passed resolutions requesting the Centre to allow Dorje to make his claim as the 17th Karmapa. The Centre has, however, not given any decision on it yet. Dorje, head of the Karma Khagyu (Black Hat) tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, was born in Tibet and had escaped to India through Nepal at the age of 14. He reached the Tibetan exile quarters at McLeodganj on January 5, 2000. Meanwhile, the MHA official said the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) recently cleared a proposal to allot a piece of land to the Karmapa in Delhi to construct his monastery and also lifted restrictions on his movement in any part of the country, including Sikkim, accept the Rumtek monastery. But because of some concerns raised by security agencies, he would need to give prior information about his movement, he added For the land, the MHA has already written to the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Delhi, who in turn has asked the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to find a suitable location, the official said. The Karmapa wants to build a monastery as his current abode in Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh is small, he added. gspannu7@gmail.com Kuldeep Chauhan Tribune News Service Shimla, October 3 The World Bank on Wednesday put the controversial Rs 1,134-crore horticulture modernisation project under suspension and sought clarification from the state government on the change in parameters of the project as sought by Horticulture Minister Mahinder Singh Thakur, revealed the sources in the government. According to the official sources, the World Bank had fixed a meeting with the officials of the horticulture department, including the project director of the World Bank-funded horticulture project in New Delhi today. But neither Principal Secretary Horticulture RD Dhiman nor project director Dinesh Malhotra attended the meeting as both had engagements today, the sources added. It was reliably learnt the state government was represented by a lower rank official. The World Bank put the project on suspension from today as the state government did not explain its positions after the minister has been opposing certain parameters in the project. The government has also sought changes in the parameters of the project demanding that the imported plant materials will be raised in the Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan, and would not import more in the near future, the sources said. The minister had charged that fifty per cent of the imported apple plant material from Italy worth Rs 32 crore was found to be dried and dead and hence unfit for distribution to the farmers. These plants were imported under the previous Congress government through the middle man, he had charged. The minister had also gone on record charging that Rs 100 crore commission was paid to the consultants which pointed to a scam and had threatened to conduct an inquiry into the whole thing. But even after three months nothing happened, sources said. The project is being executed under the HP horticulture development society of the department. The society has opened a plush project office in the city after spending crores on renovation. They have hired people who have no horticultural background and the common farmers find the executive-like office inaccessible, revealed the insiders. Neither Mahinder Thakur nor RD Dhiman responded to calls and messages sent on their mobile phone on the World Bank directive issued to the state after the meeting. Even the project directors phone was out reach as all officials remained tightlipped. editorial@tribune.com Majid Jahangir Tribune News Service Srinagar, October 2 Almost three years after the disappearance put the Army in the dock, the three middle-aged men of frontier Kupwara were arrested allegedly while trying to infiltrate in Kashmir along the Line of Control from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). After the three went missing in November 2015, the J&K Police had arrested Territorial Army man Manzoor Ahmed on the charges of abducting at least two of the missing men. In November 2015, three Kupwara residents Ghulam Jeelani Khatana, 46; Mir Hussain, 50; both residents of Kralapora, Dardpora; and Ali Mohammad Sheikh, 35 of Trehgam went missing. The families of the three lodged a formal police complaint against Ahmed claiming that he took them on the pretext of providing them jobs as porters in the Keran sector, after which they disappeared. The families of the three had also approached a court and sought an investigation into the matter. The TA man was later bailed out. Kupwara Senior Superintendent of Police Ambarkar Shriram Dinkar said the three were apprehended while infiltrating back from PoK. The Army apprehended the three while infiltrating in the Keran sector. No arms and ammunition were recovered from them, Dinkar said. They are being questioned to know the exact sequence of events. Dinkar said they were handed over to the police by the Army. According to the police, Hussain and Ali had crossed the border for arms training in the early 90s. However, on return, they had surrendered. After the three went missing, the Army had also initiated an inquiry into the incident. Their mysterious disappearance had also triggered protests in Kupwara. editorial@tribune.com M Aamir Khan Tribune News Service Srinagar, October 3 The municipal elections are starting from October 8, but the familiar din attached to campaigning is missing in the Valley. The Congress and BJP have embarked on a hushed campaign to woo voters in the Valley due to security concerns. The two main parties contesting the elections after a boycott by the National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party have given the rallies a miss and their campaigns are revolved around person-to-person contacts and meetings at secure areas. At the lawns of the guarded Circuit House close to the Gupkar Road where most of the residences of former ministers are located, BJP state secretary (organisation) Ashok Koul addressed the candidates of Srinagar district on Tuesday. Koul laid stress on a door-to-door campaign. Organise a door-to-door campaign to garner support. Every worker must know his area intimately and have a personal rapport with every voter, said Koul. BJP media in charge Manzoor Bhat said the names of the candidates were not being made public due to security concerns but they were thinking of holding rallies in a few pockets. Right now we are focusing on the door-to-door campaigning. We are planning to hold public rallies at relatively safer areas, Bhat told The Tribune. The BJP is presently in a celebratory mood as around 60 of its candidates are set to win uncontested in Kashmir. The party is yet to formally win an election in the Valley. The party had fielded 34 candidates in the 2014 Assembly elections but all of them had lost. The NC and PDP boycott followed by the Congress delay in announcing its decision to contest the civic elections came as a boon for the BJP. The Congress too has not held a rally in the open and is preferring a quiet campaign. Campaigning is going on but not openly as there are security concerns. Our candidates are campaigning at their own level they are meeting people at their respective mohallas to garner support. We are also holding regular meetings at district levels to review preparations for the coming elections, said a Congress leader. editorial@tribune.com Samaan Lateef Tribune News Service Baramulla, October 2 Infrastructure projects worth crores of rupees have either been shelved or left incomplete in north Kashmirs Baramulla district, showing the neglect the area is facing. From health institutions to bridges and roads, the district has not seen the execution of any major project despite the Union Government pumping huge funds for the development. Locals allege that a major chunk of the district funds are diverted for the development of three PDP legislators native Chandoosa, Kreeri and Rohama villages. In Baramulla district, it seems development is only needed in the native villages of three PDP legislators, who have chosen to ignore the needs of the rest of district, including the town, said Muhammad Yousuf, a local resident. Locals say the interference by these legislators have made the administration defunct and inaccessible to the general public. Abdul Gani Malik, who was recently promoted as the Director, Planning, has been posted in the district for the past 15 years. Similarly, locals have raised questions on the performance of Deputy Commissioner (DC), Baramulla, Nasir Naqash, who is considered very close to a PDP legislator. Officers are working under the patronage of three legislators, who have misplaced priorities for the district. The DC office has been turned into the political office of the PDP by these legislators, said another local Zahoor Ahmad, who rued that the administration had become inaccessible to people and was unwilling to address demands of the common people. Baramulla DC Nasir Naqash said several infrastructure projects were incomplete due to the lack of funds. We have sent a report of languishing projects to the government for funding and hope the work will gain momentum, he said. He, however, denied allegations that most of the development projects are coming up in PDP legislators native villages. As per official data, infrastructure projects worth Rs 10,479 lakh need immediate funding for completion. Apart from Greater Baramulla project, the government has left eight major bridges, four water supply schemes and a PHC project incomplete. The government has shelved the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-funded Greater Baramulla project announced in 2006. The project was aimed at giving a facelift to the town. The work on the building of Primary Health Centre (PHC), Wagoora, was stopped two years ago. Out of Rs 1.32 crore, the government has spent just Rs 23 lakh on the hospital in the past three years. The work on Jetty Bridge, which would bypass the traffic of Rafiabad and Kupwara from the town, has been going on at a snails pace since 2002. Other incomplete projects include bridges in Julla Uri, Mazbugh and Doabagh and water supply schemes at Bandi Bala, Panjnag and Checkipora. editorial@tribune.com Vikram Sharma Tribune News Service Jammu, October 3 The BJP has failed to field candidates in 177 municipal wards in Kashmir despite its claims made earlier that it will fight the electoral battle in every segment of the Valley. Out of 598 wards in Kashmir, the BJP has fielded candidates in 421 wards. In Jammu and Ladakh, on the other hand, the saffron party is contesting for the civic polls in all 521 and 26 wards. Though the party attributes it to not having found any suitable candidates in these wards, facts reveal that certain wards falling in the hotbed of militancy in south Kashmir and adjacent areas made the party ignore the 177 wards, while still contesing in the polls in over 70 per cent of the wards. The fact is that despite trying hard, the BJP has failed to establish base in Kashmir. Even the party flag cannot be hoisted there openly, said a senior BJP leader. However, Ashok Koul, party general secretary (organisation), puts it otherwise. Being in its infancy stage in Kashmir, the BJP deliberately chose to pick some wards and leave some, he said. Even an old party like the Congress could not muster the courage to field candidates in these wards despite governing India since Independence. We, on the other hand, are just four years old... even then we are contesting in more than 300 wards, which is quite impressive, said Koul. When asked about Saifullah Farooq, a former militant commander, contesting from the Tainkipura ward in Srinagar on the BJP ticket and if it was likely to dent partys image, Koul said, Its premature to say anything. Lets see what happens. Saifullah went to Pakistan in 1989 and returned in 1990 under the Chief Ministers rehabilitation programme for surrendered militants. He spent eight years in jail and also became the president of the Human Welfare Association of Surrendered Militants. editorial@tribune.com Dinesh Manhotra Tribune News Service Jammu, October 3 With a majority of the candidates declared elected unopposed in the urban local bodies elections in south Kashmir, the Congress on Wednesday accused the BJP of importing nominees and making a mockery of the grassroots-level democracy. The BJP, however, termed the charges as baseless and unfounded and rubbished the allegations as the Congress attempt to hide its failure to field candidates in Kashmir. Facing the heat for making it a virtual walkover for the BJP in the south Kashmir by not fielding candidates in most of the seats, J&K Pradesh Congress Committee chief GA Mir pointed out on Wednesday that importing candidates from outside the Valley just to file nominations was nothing but a mockery of democracy. Ninetynine per cent of the BJP candidates, who have won the election unopposed, are outsiders living in the Jammu region. They were taken to Srinagar under security cover to file nominations, Mir told The Tribune. As reported exclusively by The Tribune, the Congress high command had recently sought an explanation from Mir and other senior leaders for making it easy for the BJP in south Kashmir. Mir also blamed the state government and the Centre for not creating a conducive atmosphere for conducting free and fair elections in the militancy-plagued south Kashmir. The party observed that it was due to militant threats that aspirants could not come forward to file their nominations in the extra-sensitive areas. How can one join the electoral battle in an atmosphere gripped with fear psychosis, uncertainty and chaos? asked Mir. In 177 wards in Valley, no nomination has been filed. The apprehensions and concerns raised by the Congress stand validated, Mir said while hastening to add that the Congress has never opposed the elections but only wanted a congenial atmosphere wherein everybody could join the fray without fear and terror. Meanwhile, countering the allegation, BJP general secretary and in charge of the Kashmir Valley Narinder Singh took a dig at the Congress for its failure to nominate candidates. Most of the candidates elected unopposed from south Kashmir are natives of the places from where they have filed the nominations, said Singh. In the Srinagar Municipal Corporation, we have fielded 70 local Muslims, Singh said while pointing out that the Congress had failed to get candidates even in the peaceful Jammu region. Legal to contest in any ward As per the Jammu-Kashmir Municipal Act 2002, any person who is enrolled in the electoral rolls of the urban local bodies is eligible to contest the elections in any ward of the state. The contestant has to provide the voter ID card number while filing the paper. editorial@tribune.com Suhail A Shah Anantnag, October 3 While candidates in fray for the urban local body elections in Jammu and Kashmir have been moved to secure places after the names of some went viral on the social media, the BJP has secured a majority in the militancy-infested Shopian district with its 13 candidates elected unopposed. Twenty municipalities will go to the polls on October 13. But the strength of candidates being insufficient, voters in only four of these municipalities will cast their vote. Many candidates will be elected unopposed. With no nominations, most wards will remain unrepresented, said officials. Though the authorities took care not to disclose the identity of the candidates, given the threats by militants, the names of some in two municipalities Aishmuqam and Dooru in Anantnag district were leaked on the social media. Consequently, the candidates were moved to safer locations. A senior police official explained: As security cannot be provided to every candidate, we have moved them to protected locations. The Tribune managed to speak to two such candidates. Security remains a concern. I dont know how long we will be kept here, said one of them. An Independent, he is bound to be declared elected as the nomination of his rival, a BJP candidate, was rejected for being under-aged. The second candidate demanded long-term measures for security. Political observers say the elections are meaningless with the states major parties, the NC and PDP, deciding to boycott over the legal challenge to Article 35A of the Constitution in the Supreme Court. Lashing out at these parties, Ravinder Raina, the BJP state president, accused them of making a mockery of the democratic process. The NC, along with the Congress, formed the Hill Development Council in Kargil recently, but are running away from the democratic process in Kashmir, he remarked. Asked if there were any Kashmiri Pandits among the elected candidates in Shopian, he said all 13 were local Muslims. editorial@tribune.com Shaheen Khan Operation theatre technology is a technical occupation in the field of health sciences. Also known as operating theatre technicians (OTT), surgical scrubs or operating room assistants, medical professionals from this field are an important part of the operation unit team. They work alongside the surgeon, anesthesiologist and nurse to provide quality patient-care during the surgery. The technicians ensure that all processes in the operation theatre are secure. Their primary duty is to take care of the management of the operation theatre, which comprise maintenance of surgical instruments, sterilisation, preparation of dressing table, operation theatre table, instrument table and anesthesia table. They also keep a stock of the drugs necessary for surgery, anesthetic gases, drapes and linen and their sterilisation. That all tools functioning appropriately is also their job. Skills needed Apart from the basic educational qualification, good scientific, communication and behavioural skills are must haves for surgical technologists. An eye for detail, accuracy and critical thinking are important well. Team work is essential. The job necessitates a person to work in partnership with other healthcare providers. They should have the aptitude to work under minimal regulation, unpredictable shifts and long hours. One must also realise the importance of remaining alert during operations. Career prospects The operation theatre technician supervises the arrangements in the operation room and keeps a tab on the requirements of the patient and the surgical team. Surgical team members function in two capacities nonsterile and sterile. During a surgical procedure, the area near the patient is referred to as the sterile field. Anyone functioning in this field put on sterile gloves and a gown. The sterile team members are the doctors, surgical assistants and surgical technologists. During the surgery, scrub technicians in the sterile field offer suction and retraction as engaged, and hand the surgeon essential instruments, sponges and other items. Technicians functioning outside the sterile field are said to be circulating, which means they help the other team members in monitoring the patient and the procedure. They provide extra supplies and sterile instruments required during the surgery, and assist the scrub tech in maintaining a count of pads and sponges in use. Academic qualification Diploma in Operation Theatre Technician, BSc Surgical Technology and MSc Surgical Technology are the main courses in the field of OTT. The eligibility criteria for the two-year diploma and three-year BSc course is Class XII or its equal. The applicants should have a minimum of 50 per cent marks in physics, chemistry, biology and mathematics. A number of institutes offer three-year diploma and one-year certificate course for individuals who have passed Class X. Course curriculum of surgical technology include meticulous classroom training in subjects like anatomy and physiology, biomedical science, pharmacology, pathology, microbiology, obstetrics and gynaecology etc. Education about basics of surgical procedures, equipment operations and handling skills are imparted during the course. The students are also provided hands-on clinical experience, seminars, computer-aided knowledge and visits to manufacturing units. Remuneration Pay scale in surgical technology depends on one's qualification, knowledge and the status of the hospital. Graduates can expect a salary of Rs 15,000- Rs 20,000. The salary of an individual increases with experience. Caretakers of hygiene Surgical technicians clean and arrange the operating room prior to and after each procedure, ensuring that it is completely stocked with instrument and sterile disposable items. They must have the crucial knowledge to make sure the patient gets quality care throughout the operative process. Employment opportunities Hospitals are the crucial employers of surgical and operation theatre technologists. They work in the operating theatres, ICUs and emergency unit of hospitals and nursing homes. Openings are available in the areas of transplant teams, gynaecology sections, orthopaedic clinics, cancer units, surgery, special care baby units, etc. and also in the field of research, culture and training. They are needed to work with physicians or dentists who carry out outpatient surgery Institute watch Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune Delhi Paramedical and Management Institute (DPMI) Council of Education and Development Program (CEDP Skill Institute), Mumbai Institute of Paramedical, Management and Technologies (IPMT), New Delhi Surgical technicians have several duties to perform. Some of these are: Making the operation room ready for surgery. Arranging, checking, attaching/ detaching and adjusting surgical equipments. Give technical assistance to surgeons, nurses and anesthetists. Make patients comfortable for surgery. Get ready the patient for surgery by disinfecting incision sites. Supplying equipment according to instructions. Solutions and medications to the surgeon. Sterile dressings at the end of surgery. Locating patients to and from the theatre and wards. The writer is Director of CEDP Skill Institute, Mumbai vinaymishra188@gmail.com Mona Three held in Faridabad after Hindu man was found murdered; Uttar Pradesh police arrest two in suspected case of honour killing; Shutdown in Telanganas Miryalguda over honour killing; 18-year-old woman, boyfriend beheaded in Pakistans Attock... these are some headlines from last month. Honour killing remains an issue not only in Haryana, but across the country and the border too! Love can lead to varied repercussions and, sadly, killings happen to be one of them. Intense drama Writer-director Ajai Sinha thought everybody knows this ugly truth of Indian society; he was in for surprise as many around him barely know the word khap. Putting in his lifes savings, he wrote and directed film by the same name. This 2011 drama shows three points of views the conservatives who consider it the right way; the outsiders who find it wrong and those who fall victim to it. Ajai labels his journey as very fulfilling as a filmmaker and loss-making commercially! Not only theatres could not show the film, as protestors came down to burn the halls, the movie wasnt allowed screening even in a film festival at Rohtak! Vote bank remains the reason; Ajai believes that comes in the way of sensitive work reaching the intended audience. Burning topic The topic was central to the huge hit Sairat, which coupled with the rich-poor dichotomy gained commercial and critical success. The Marathi film got Special Jury at the National Film Awards. Its Hindi remake that launched late Sridevis daughter Jhanvi Kapoor, along with Ishaan Khatter, called Dhadak, did moderately well at the box-office, though it was labelled a poor cousin of the original. NH 10 became debut for Anushka Sharma as a producer and was a sleeper hit. This story set in Haryana projects honour killing as a way of life. A 2014 film by the title Honour Killing explores the issue too. But do films made on sensitive subjects make an impact? Rahul Dahiya made a bold attempt with G Kutta Se. As my mother narrated an incident of one bone- chilling honour killing, the story-teller in me wanted to make a movie, he says. This movie explores how love is a natural emotion and how the family finds it so hard to accept. The trailer of the film attracted much controversy with Rahul receiving death threats, but he says, The film that was shot in those very villages in the heartland of Haryana Jind had half of the local folks as cast and they had no issue filming or afterwards. No one who saw the film could raise an objection of it. I get moved by what I see. As a creative soul I feel if my work makes the society think, my goal is achieved, he adds. Brave attempt Ashwini Chaudhary, who debuted in 1999 with Laado, which raises issue of khap panchayat and patriarchy, feels social issues find voice in regional cinema way better than Hindi. Bryans philanthropic endeavors were expansive and often realized. He served on the Art Institutes board for 23 years and chaired the board from 1999 until 2006. He began the public phases of a $350 million capital campaign to build and endow a major museum addition, the Modern Wing, which opened in 2009. In the early 1990s, Bryan marshaled many Chicago-area businesses and foundations to donate $100 million to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Lyric Opera to fund an addition to Orchestra Hall and the Lyrics dream of owning its space in the Civic Opera House. shalender@tribune.com Therere two reasons why Indians understand the love-hate relationship better than others. Ones called politics and the other cinema. In a nation singularly obsessed with politics on the one hand and cinema on the other, the point where the two intersect arouses avid curiosity and interest. What draws the larger-than-life personalities who entertain us on screen to the world of governance and politics off-screen? Neta Abhineta: Bollywood Star Power In Indian Politics, a book published by Hachette) traces this phenomenon through intimate and compelling portrayals of some of the most popular actors in Hindi cinema who have, from the years leading up to Indias independence in 1947, entered Indian politics for reasons ranging from a sense of social commitment to a desperate quest for a second chance at fame when their star power dimmed. Dilip Kumar, Nargis and Sunil Dutt; Rajesh Khanna, Jaya and Amitabh Bachchan, Shatrughan Sinha, Hema Malini, Mithun Chakraborty, Jaya Prada, Vinod Khanna, Govinda, Raj Babbar and Paresh Rawal are some of the more prominent names that feature in this engaging account involving film veterans, superstars and more. TNS Know this? 1 What piqued Rahul Gandhis interest in Kareena Kapoor? (Kareena had told an interviewer that she would want to date Rahul Gandhi) 2What caused a serious rift in Dilip Kumars relationship with Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray? (When Dilip Kumar decided to accept the highest civilian award Nishan-e-Imtiaz conferred by the government of Pakistan) 3Is there some truth to the rumour that a powerful Mumbai-based politician opposed to actor Sunil Dutt was responsible for his son Sanjays endless troubles with the law? (It was alleged that Sharad Pawar-Sunil Dutt political rivalry was the cause of Sanjay Dutts legal troubles) 4Which debonair actor, driven by the courage of his convictions, had protested against the excesses of the Emergency by defiantly telling the then Information and Broadcasting minister, VC Shukla, How can the government pressurise ones will into sweetening if the will thinks to the contrary? (Dev Anand) 5Which superstar past his prime would declare to Amitabh Bachchan, You are not Jesus Christ and I am not Mahatma Gandhi? (Rajesh Khanna) 6Which superstar-turned-politician became infamous for interfering in the governance of four major Indian states? (Amitabh Bachchan) 7Which former film hero was inspired by his role in an iconic film to announce to potential voters during a political campaign that if elected, he would solve all their problems by standing on the top of the Houses of Parliament and threatening to jump to his death if his advice wasnt heeded? (Dharmendra) 8Which actress-MP, lauded for her beauty even by the late director, Satyajit Ray, would defend her relationship with a married man with the rejoinder, it was better to be one mans darling than to have many wolves leering at you? (Jaya Prada) 9 Which action-hero turned MP would acknowledge, I believe in having the best of everything be it apartments, cars or food.? (Vinod Khanna) 10 Which actor-turned MP was instrumental in removing Aamir Khan as brand ambassador for the Incredible India campaign? (Manoj Tiwari) Rajiv Sharma Rajiv Sharma HOUSE No. 3, behind Pingalwara, Amritsar, was our address for almost 30 years before we decided to move to the other end of the city because of space constraints of our ancestral house. Born and brought up around the haven for the physically and mentally challenged, Pingalwara gave me an opportunity to observe the lives of the forgotten strata of society from close quarters. As a child, while going to school, I was petrified by the shrieks of kids my age, peeping through wire-meshed windows of the building. I tried to avoid eye contact, but soon I got accustomed to their cries and started stealing a glance to invite a smile or two. Thereafter, I merrily passed the street laughing and gesturing to the less privileged children. They jumped in elation and hugged one another everytime I waved and smiled at them. Later, when I moved to middle school, I happened to pass through the same route, which Pingalwara volunteers took to carry the mentally ill for treatment. In those days, they couldnt afford fuel-driven vehicles. Men and women were chained and locked to be transported in an iron cart, pulled manually by the caretakers, all the way to hospital, 8 km from Pingalwara. This may seem as a barbaric practice, but the science of psychiatry was not so advanced then and patients had to be restrained to prevent them from harming themselves or others. We usually came across them at the level crossing while waiting for the train to pass. Blank expression in the eyes of the desolate was too much to handle for our tender hearts. Every cart used to carry Buddhas message: Anyone who wishes to serve me better, serve an ailing person. Bhagat Pooran Singh was the lone man behind the noble mission which seemed impossible in those times of scanty resources and negligible support from government. He single-handedly raised a shelter for the poor, deprived and differently abled people to live with dignity. He was also a staunch environmentalist and crusader against social evils. Once while playing outside the complex, he signalled me to come in along with my friends. Sitting on a cot, sporting a white beard and a frail frame, with one of his assistants, he asked me: Do you watch TV? I nodded. TV is akin to TB. It drains your mind and body. Then he gave us few pamphlets printed on reused paper, against TV viewing, to distribute in the neighbourhood, which we gladly did. In the twilight years of his life, he could be seen sitting outside the Golden Temple, distributing leaflets and booklets written by him on the preservation of environment and against social ills. Once on my visit to the Golden Temple, he whispered in my ear when I bent to touch his feet: Rukh lagao, sukh vadhao (Plant trees to yield happiness). Such was this man extraordinaire who kept working selflessly for the uplift of the poor and the abandoned till the last breath of his life. editorial@tribune.com Guwahati/New Delhi, October 3 Seven Rohingya immigrants, who have been staying in Assam illegally, will be deported to their home country Myanmar tomorrow, officials said in New Delhi. This is for the first time Rohingya immigrants would be sent back to Myanmar from India. Seven Rohingya immigrants would be handed over to the Myanmar authorities at Moreh border post in Manipur tomorrow, a Home Ministry official said. The illegal immigrants have been staying at a detention centre in Silchar since 2012, when they were detained by the police. Consular access had been given to Myanmar diplomats, who confirmed the identity of the immigrants, the official said. Another official said the confirmation of the Myanmarese citizenship of the illegal immigrants came after the government of the neighbouring country verified their addresses in Rakhine state. The Indian Government told Parliament last year that more than 14,000 Rohingya, registered with the UN refugee agency UNHCR, stay in India. However, aid agencies estimate there are about 40,000 Rohingya in the country. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims, described by the UN as the most persecuted minority in the world, fled their homes last year to escape an alleged crackdown by the Myanmarese military. Human rights group Amnesty International has blamed Myanmars state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and the countrys government for burying their heads in sand over the horrors unfolding in Rakhine state. Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta, Additional Director General of Police in Assam, said the seven men would be handed over to the Myanmar authorities at the border tomorrow morning. This is a routine procedure, we deport all illegal foreigners, he said. A UN human rights official, however, said the forcible return of the Rohingya violates international law. The Myanmar government spokesman, Zaw Htay, did not answer telephone calls on Wednesday. TNS/Agencies 40,000 in India Around 40,000 Rohingya live in India after having fled persecution in Myanmar over the years The seven men being sent back had been held in prison since 2012 for illegal entry into India. The confirmation of their Myanmarese citizenship came after the neighbouring country verified their addresses in Rakhine state Its Not safe: UNHRC The UNHRC said the current conditions in Rakhine state in Myanmar were not conducive for safe, dignified and sustainable return of Rohingya The core principle of refugee protection is non-refoulement which requires States to refrain from measures that could lead to the return of a person to a country where his/her life or freedom would be in danger, it said Plea in SC against Centres move rohitb@tribuneindia.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, October 3 A day after they clashed with the police at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border, agitating farmers today ended their 10-day Kisan Kranti Yatra at Kisan Ghat The farmers, who were marching under the banner of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), were allowed to enter the city post midnight after several rounds of negotiations. Earlier, talks between the government and agitating farmers had failed. Festering problems in the agriculture sector has yesterday resulted in thousands of farmers clashing with the police on the Delhi-UP border while attempting to force their way into the capital. The police used tear gas shells and water cannons to prevent farmers from ramming tractor-trailers into barricades at the Ghazipur crossing. Vehicular traffic on the busy Delhi-Meerut Expressway remained paralysed. The police action attracted criticism, with Opposition parties saying the farmers were on their way to raise genuine grievances, but were subjected to harsh measures. Under the banner of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), farmers had started arriving at the entry point to Delhi since Monday evening. This morning, the police blocked them from proceeding towards Rajghat, the proposed site of protest. The BKU had later said the Centre had assured it would file a review petition against the National Green Tribunal order banning 10-year-old diesel vehicles and include farmers in the committee formed by UP for linking MNREGA to farm work. They also sought budget announcement of cost-plus 50 per cent minimum support price for rabi crops, firm measures for procurement and advising states to ensure fair prices for farm produce. They called for an early meeting of the GST Council to fix 5 per cent tax for all products used for agriculture and a law to prevent import of crops produced in surplus. The Delhi Police denied any lathicharge, saying seven cops got injured while trying to control farmers who insisted on entering on tractor-trailers, banned in the city. monicakchauhan@gmail.com Jaipur, October 3 The Rajasthan Police claimed on Wednesday they had found no evidence of firing on the witnesses of the Pehlu Khan lynching case and termed the complaint fake. The witnesses in the lynching case, including Khan's two sons, had alleged Saturday they were fired upon by unidentified men while they were on the way to appear in a court in Behror town. "No firing on the witnesses took place and the complaint was fake. There was no circumstantial evidence of firing and no such vehicle, as described by the complainant, is seen in CCTV footage," Circle Officer Behror Kushal Singh said. "The complaint was posted on social media about the alleged incident but they did not inform the police control room. They went to the SP office instead of approaching a nearby police station which had raised doubts," he said. Khan's son Irshad had lodged the complaint in the matter at the Neemrana Police Station. Singh said the police will file a report in the court and legal action against the complainant will also be taken for filing a false complaint. Six people, including Khan's sons Irshad and Arif and their lawyer, were on the way to court in Behror. They had alleged unidentified accused driving in an SUV without having registration number plate fired on them and fled from the spot. On April 1 last year, Irshad and Arif were with their father in a pick-up truck when they, along with two others, were attacked by cow vigilantes in Alwar. They were on their way to Haryana reportedly after purchasing cattle in Rajasthan. Khan, a 55-year-old dairy farmer, succumbed to his injuries two days later. PTI editorial@tribune.com Jaipur, October 3 The Rajasthan Police claimed on Wednesday that they had found no evidence of firing at the witnesses of the Pehlu Khan lynching case and termed the complaint fake. After thorough investigation based on the CCTV footage of the national highway, we found no evidence of any attack or firing at the witnesses of the Pehlu Khan lynching case near Neemrana in Alwar district on September 29 morning, a police official said. The Alwar police would soon file an FIR in the case in the district court and, if approved, would initiate a case against complainants for filing fake case of attack and firing. No firing on the witnesses took place and the FIR was fake and unsubstantiated. There was no circumstantial evidence of firing. A black coloured vehicle was detected before and after the alleged incident on the highway near Neemrana as mentioned in the FIR, information officer Sanjay Poonia said. Four main witnesses in Pehlu Khans lynching case, who were on their way to depose before a Behror court, were allegedly attacked by unidentified miscreants who approached their vehicle and opened fire at them. The four have been identified as Irshad, Arif (Khans son), Ajmat and Rafiq along with a lawyer. On April 1, 2017, Irshad and Arif were with their father in a pick-up truck when they, along with two others, were attacked by cow vigilantes in Alwar. They were on their way to Haryana reportedly after purchasing cattle in Rajasthan. Khan, a 55-year-old dairy farmer, succumbed to his injuries two days later. OC editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Lucknow, October 2 Lone eyewitness to the murder of Apple executive Vivek Tiwari, his ex-colleague Sana Khan, today helped the special investigation team (SIT) recreate the crime scene. The SIT, led by Lucknow IG Sujit Pandey, took Sana Khan and Viveks wife Kalpana Tiwari to the crime scene in Gomti Nagar extension where they recreated the sequence of events on the basis of Sanas statement. Sana Khan admitted that Tiwari did not stop the car when the two cops suddenly appeared before their vehicle as they seemed drunk and angry and had poked a stick through the open window. She said the car was continuously moving as Tiwari had neither got off the vehicle nor entered into any arguments with the cops. Cop Prashant Chadhury aimed at Vivek holding his weapon with both hands and shot him without any provocation, she alleged. The vehicle came to a halt after ramming into a pillar of a nearby underpass. According to Sana, she did not carry her phone that day and Tiwaris phone was code-locked. Hence, she ran towards the road and cried out for help. Eventually, a police van came there and profusely bleeding Vivek Tiwari was taken to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. Half an hour after reaching the hospital, he succumbed to the bullet injury. The post-mortem examination confirmed that Tiwari died due to a gunshot injury on the left side of his chin. Talking to mediapersons, Sana said after interrogation at various police stations, she was made to sign a blank paper and kept under house arrest for over 17 hours. She alleged she was pressured to make a statement exonerating the police. One of the woman constables who interrogated her roughly was Rakhi Malik, wife of Prashant Chaudhry who had shot Tiwari dead. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, October 3 Justice Ranjan Gogoi today took over as the 46th Chief Justice of India and immediately got down to work in a no-nonsense style telling lawyers that streamlining of procedure for mentioning of urgent matters was underway. Gogoi (63) was administered the oath of office by President Ram Nath Kovind at a brief ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavans historic Darbar Hall. He is the first judge from the North-East to become the CJI. Justice Gogoi who succeeds Justice Dipak Misra will have a stint of a little over 13 months before retiring on November 17, 2019. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his predecessor Manmohan Singh and former PM HD Deve Gowda and several other dignitaries were present at the ceremony. I congratulate Justice Ranjan Gogoi ji on taking oath as the Chief Justice of India. His experience, wisdom, insight and legal knowledge will benefit the country greatly. My best wishes for a fruitful tenure, PM Modi tweeted. After being administered the oath of office by the President, Justice Gogoi came to the Supreme Court where he sat in court number 1 with Justice SK Kaul and Justice KM Joseph. The new CJI refused to take up urgent mentioning matters saying all such cases will be disallowed till parameters were worked out, except in really urgent cases where someone was going to be hanged or evicted. Justice Gogoi cut short advocate Mathews Nedumpara when he congratulated him on becoming captain of the judiciary. Let us get back to the work. Mr Nedumpara, this is not the place for all this. We dont need all this. You are here to mention? No mentioning till parameters are worked out, he said. He also refused to entertain advocate Prashant Bhushan when he tried to mention an application for urgent hearing on Rohingyas deportation. We would first peruse it and then decide when to take up, he said. gspannu7@gmail.com New Delhi, October 3 The Supreme Court asked the Centre on Wednesday to look into the mysterious deaths of 23 lions in Gujarats Gir sanctuary in the past three weeks, amid fears that the wild cats could have died due to virus infection. Today, we are faced with a peculiar problem. Lions are dying. There seems to be some kind of virus. We do not know. It is coming in newspapers. You find it out, a Bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur told Additional Solicitor General ANS Nadkarni, who was appearing for the Centre. The Bench, comprising justices S Abdul Nazeer and Deepak Gupta, was informed that 23 lions have died in the only abode of Asiatic lions in the world in the past three weeks. If there is any kind of virus infection, all lions will be wiped out from the area, advocate Ritwick Dutta told the Bench, which was hearing a matter related to the re-introduction of cheetahs in India from Namibia in Africa. The counsel said the manner in which the lions have died, there was a fear of the epidemic spreading to other animals. The Gujarat Government on Monday said some of the lions died due to a virus infection. It said it was yet to identify the type of virus that led to the deaths. An application was filed in the top court by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), seeking a direction that the courts 2013 decision rendered in a wildlife case does not prevent authorities from taking steps in conformity with the law to re-introduce cheetahs from Africa to suitable sites in India. During the hearing, the Bench asked the ASG about the deaths of lions in Gir sanctuary and said, What are you doing on the issue of lions? It is very serious. The ASG told the court that a matter related to lions in Gujarat was already pending in the apex court. I will find out (about the deaths of lions), he told the Bench. During the hearing, NTCAs counsel said they have complied with the requirements of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), an organisation working in the field of nature conservation, for re-location of cheetahs from Africa to India. The Bench, however, told the counsel whether they have taken the consent of the IUCN in this regard. You want to re-introduce cheetahs from Namibia. There is a process. IUCN is involved in the process. You are saying that you have complied with the process laid down by IUCN. Has IUCN said that you have complied with it and they have no objection?. the Bench asked. NTCAs counsel said that he would take instructions in this regard whether IUCN has given consent for re-location of cheetahs from Namibia to India. The Bench has posted the matter for hearing on October 29. PTI vermaajay1968@gmail.com Sushil Manav Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 2 With Haryana announcing 100 per cent procurement of bajra (millet) at the minimum support price of Rs 1,950 per quintal, huge stocks from Rajasthan have found their way into grain markets of southern Haryana, it is learnt. But Ram Niwas, Additional Chief Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, insists foolproof arrangements will defeat the traders designs. They cant be allowed to make profit via the procurement process, he says, listing steps such as compulsory registration of farmers on Meri Fasal, Mera Byora (e-Kharid) portal, verification of claims by Agriculture Development Officers (ADOs) and re-verification. We will only procure crops registered on the portal and verified by ADOs and revenue officials, he says. Significantly, Rajasthan, that produces a massive 27 lakh metric tonnes of bajra, has no procurement policy. The crop there is being sold at a much lower price Rs 1,200 per quintal. The profit motive, therefore, is driving traders to push the commodity into Haryanas grain markets. It is learnt that traders from Rewari, Mahendragarh, Charkhi Dadri, Bhiwani, Jhajjar, Hisar, Nuh and Gurugram districts have stocked their godowns with bajra. Haryana has just begun procurement under the Bhawantar Bharpayee Scheme under which farmers will be paid Rs 1,500 or more (decided on a daily basis) per quintal by agencies or private parties and the difference between sale price and MSP will be paid by the government. FIGURING IT OUT But last month, the administration reached an agreement with the Mexican government, allowing Trump to crow about his deal-making prowess. A lot of people thought wed never get here, he said. He also indicated that if the Canadians didnt want to accept the same terms, they were welcome to climb onto an Arctic iceberg and float away. The Oct. 1 deadline the U.S. imposed on Canada raised the prospect that the whole package could collapse, to the detriment of the entire North American economy. vermaajay1968@gmail.com New Delhi, October 2 Festering problems in the agriculture sector today resulted in thousands of farmers clashing with the police on the Delhi-UP border while attempting to force their way into the capital, even as the Centre assured them a decent look into their demands. The police used tear gas shells and water cannons to prevent farmers from ramming tractor-trailers into barricades at the Ghazipur crossing. Vehicular traffic on the busy Delhi-Meerut Expressway remained paralysed. The police action attracted criticism, with Opposition parties saying the farmers were on their way to raise genuine grievances, but were subjected to harsh measures. Under the banner of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), farmers had started arriving at the entry point to Delhi since Monday evening. This morning, the police blocked them from proceeding towards Rajghat, the proposed site of protest. A Central team, led by Home Minister Rajnath Singh, held talks with a BKU delegation where certain assurances were made. Later, Minister of State for Agriculture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and UP Minister Lakshmi Narayan Singh reached the Delhi border to pacify the agitating farmers. The BKU later said the Centre had assured it would file a review petition against the National Green Tribunal order banning 10-year-old diesel vehicles and include farmers in the committee formed by UP for linking MNREGA to farm work. They also sought budget announcement of cost-plus 50 per cent minimum support price for rabi crops, firm measures for procurement and advising states to ensure fair prices for farm produce. They called for an early meeting of the GST Council to fix 5 per cent tax for all products used for agriculture and a law to prevent import of crops produced in surplus. BKU chief Naresh Tikait, however, said the farmers were not satisfied and would hold consultations before deciding the future course of action. The Delhi Police denied any lathicharge, saying seven cops got injured while trying to control farmers who insisted on entering on tractor-trailers, banned in the city. TNS Talks held, assurances made, no progress editorial@tribune.com Ralegan Siddhi, October 2 Social activist Anna Hazare on Tuesday put off his proposed hunger strike over various demands, including appointment of Lokpal, saying the government had taken certain steps that had shown a ray of hope. The 81-year-old anti-corruption crusader, however, warned that he would launch the protest on January 30, the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, if the government failed to fulfil his demands. Hazare had earlier said he would launch his agitation here in Maharashtra from Tuesday, marking the 149th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, alleging that the government had not kept its word of taking positive steps as regards his demands after his protest at the Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi in March. Maharashtra Minister Girish Mahajan, who reached out to Hazare on behalf of the Centre and the state government, said the government had discussed in detail the demands raised by the activist and fulfilled the key points, as he urged the latter to call off the protest. Hazare, the face of the Lokpal movement, went on a 12-day hunger strike earlier in 2011. He had later launched a fast which had garnered huge support across the country. The then UPA government had later passed the Lokpal Bill. PTI editorial@tribune.com Vijay Mohan Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 2 To keep alive the legacy of the IAFs sole Param Vir Chakra recipient, the surviving members of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhons course have instituted a scholarship for wards of air force personnel. The scholarship was launched by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa in New Delhi a few days ago, with a number of officers and widows being present on the occasion. Sekhon, who hailed from Isewal village near Ludhiana, was from the 97th Pilots and 36th Navigators Course comprising 198 officers who were commissioned in June 1967. Among the course members are three gallantry awardees as well as a helicopter pilot who died in a crash near the Siachen Base Camp in 1984 during the early stages of Operation Meghdoot. A Gnat pilot, he was posthumously decorated with India's highest gallantry award for his lone defence of the Srinagar airbase against a raid by Pakistani Sabre aircraft during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. The scholarships, meant for meritorious students as well as those in financial assistance, will be paid from the interest earned on a corpus that has been formed from donations by the course members According to a course members associated with the launch of the scheme, their initial target was to generate a fund of Rs 10 lakh, but the collections have far exceed it. About 80 persons, including 15 widows of course members, have donated for the fund so far. Among the donors is Sekhons wife with whom he had been married for just 10 months when he died and later she had remarried. The fund will be managed by the Air Force Association although policy matters and selection of beneficiaries will be handled by a four member committee from the course fraternity that would include two ladies. Since the course members are now aged, they have also roped in their children to ensure the schemes continuity. Caption: Course mates of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon with Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa during the launch of a scholarship in his memory in New Delhi editorial@tribune.com Ravi S Singh Tribune News Service New Delhi, October 2 The Centres national Swachhata Hi Seva movement concluded on Tuesday, marking Mahatma Gandhis 150th birth anniversary. The conclusion was timed with the completion of a four-day Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention and adoption of the Delhi Declaration embodying world communitys pledge to sanitation. The declaration was signed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres at the convention held at Rashtrapati Bhavan which was attended by 160 international representatives, including Sanitation Ministers from 67 countries. Todays event was celebrated as Swachh Bharat Diwas-2018. The declaration has four Ps as guiding principle to global communitys drive towards sanitation of which eradication of open defecation is substantive part. The Ps are: political leadership, peoples participation, public funding and partnership. Another salient feature of the event was distribution of Swachh Bharat Awards. Haryana bagged the award for its overall achievement in cleanliness. Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar was present on the occasion. I congratulate you Prime Minister for your leadership and vision in the area. I am proud of Modis strong leadership. India will realise the United Nations target of Sustainable Development Goal, 2030, before the deadline eradication of open defecation is an important constituent of the goal, Guterres said. He appreciated attendance of the foreign dignitaries taking part in the event, saying it was inspiring. India is leading the way in the matter, he said. Guterres assured of UNs support to Indias cleanliness drive, saying one billion people in the India are still into open defecation. Addressing the convention, Modi said the participation of foreign dignitaries at the event is a testimony that the Swachh Bharat campaign has become global. This event will prove to be an important milestone to the cause of cleanliness which is related to welfare of humanity, Modi said. India's rural cleanliness coverage has increased from 38 per cent to 94 per cent. Not only toilets have been constructed, but 90 per cent of them are being used. Open defecation cases have been reduced to 20 per cent from 60 per cent, he said. Earlier, Mopdi paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Peace prize not given since 2014 New Delhi: As the country celebrates the 149th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the annual International Gandhi Peace Prize, named after Father of the Nation, has not been conferred for the last four years. An official of the Ministry of Culture, the nodal agency which receives proposals for conferring the award, said nominations were made during the four years for the award, but an approval has been awaited. PTI Bapus favourite bhajan goes global New Delhi: Mahatma Gandhi's favourite devotional song Vaishnava Jan To has gone global with artists from over 124 countries having contributed musically in paying homage to him through the bhajan. PM Narendra Modi launched a medley version of the bhajan during the closing ceremony of the sanitation conference, a Ministry of External Affairs statement said. PTI Stamps released in Netherlands The Hague: India on Tuesday released special commemorative stamps to mark the beginning of the year-long celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary in the Netherlands. The stamps were presented by Indias Ambassador to the Netherlands Venu Rajamony to former Foreign Minister and Chairman of Carnegie Foundation Bernard R Bot and Director General Erik de Baedts in front of the iconic Peace Palace. PTI gspannu7@gmail.com Ravi S Singh Tribune News Service New Delhi, October 3 Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Padma Shri and the Arjuna Award recipient Bachendri Pal on Wednesday announced to launch a 25 day-long rafting expedition on the Ganges to help spread awareness on cleanliness of the river from October 5-30. Pal was the first Indian woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1984. The 40-member team for the expedition will be led by Pal. It will be kicked off from Haridwar in Uttarakhand and culminate at Patna. It will camp at about 10 cities along the rivers banks. The expedition has been named Mission Ganga. The expedition will be a partnership of National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and the Tata Steel Adventure Foundation (TSAF) of which Pal is the head. I feel proud that Prime Minister Modi voices concern on issues such as cleanliness, protection of environment and the nature. I feel inspired, Pal said while announcing the expedition. A native of Nakuri village in Uttarakashi in Uttarakhand, Pal said that her attachment to the Ganges and cleanliness has not been overnight. My house in my village oversees Bhagirathi which turns into Ganges after merging with it. I have imbibed the view from childhood that Ganges is spiritual, and the nature, the Earth, and cows are our mothers, Pal said. The iconic figure said the expedition would be a tough call. My mantra has always been to focus on the task at hand and to welcome challenges, she said. She recounted that the Indo-Nepalese Womens Everest Expedition led by her in 1993, voluntarily brought down 500 kg of non-biodegradable waste form Everest, which was properly disposed of in Kathmandu. Since then, this has been made mandatory for all expeditions to the Everest. Similarly, in 1994, apart from the hardcore adventure element, the women brought ashore several bodies and buried them showing great resilience. Another Padm Shri awardee in the team, Premlata Agarwal, said, I believe that awards and my personal achievements mean nothing if sacrifice is not made for my country. The expedition team comprises 20 men and equal number of women. It has in all eight mountaineers who have summited Mount Everest. They are Hemant Gupta, RS Pal, Chetna Sahoo, Binita Soren, Poonam Rana, Swanlata Dalai, besides Bachendri Pal and Premlala Agarwal. The team also has five engineers from IIT, one radio jockey and management graduates. The expedition will traverse a distance of 1500 km encompassing eight towns, including Bijnore, Kanpur, Allahabad and Varanasi along the banks. The team members will camp at these towns and take part in events involving locals to spread awareness on cleanliness of the river. editorial@tribune.com Stockholm, October 2 Three scientists on Tuesday won the Nobel Physics Prize for inventing optical lasers that have paved the way for advanced precision instruments used in corrective eye surgery and in industry, the jury said. Arthur Ashkin of the United States won one half of the 9 million Swedish kronor (about $1.01 million or 870,000 euros) prize, while Gerard Mourou of France and Donna Strickland of Canada shared the other half. Ashkin, 96, was honoured for his invention of optical tweezers that grab particles, atoms, viruses and other living cells with their laser beam fingers. With this, he was able to use the radiation pressure of light to move physical objects, an old dream of science fiction, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said. A major breakthrough came in 1987 when Ashkin used the tweezers to capture living bacteria without harming them, the Academy noted. Ashkin, who made his discovery while working at AT&T Bell Laboratories from 1952 to 1991, is the oldest winner of a Nobel prize, beating out American Leonid Hurwicz who was 90 when he won the 2007 Economics prize. Meanwhile Mourou, 74, and Strickland only the third woman to win the Physics prize won for helping develop a method to generate ultra-short optical pulses, the shortest and most intense laser pulses ever created by mankind, the jury said. Their technique is now used in corrective eye surgery. Mourou was affiliated with the Ecole Polytechnique of France and the University of Michigan in the US, while Strickland, his student, is a professor at the University of Waterloo in Canada. Speaking by phone to the academy, a moved Strickland said she was thrilled to receive the Nobel prize that has been the least accessible for women. Before her, only Marie Curie and Maria Goeppert Mayer had won the Physics prize in 1903 and 1963, respectively. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has in the past lamented the small number of women laureates in the science fields in general. Last year, US astrophysicists Barry Barish, Kip Thorne and Rainer Weiss won the Physics prize for the discovery of gravitational waves, predicted by Albert Einstein a century ago as part of his theory of general relativity. The winners of the Chemistry prize will be announced on Wednesday, followed by the Peace prize on Friday. The Economics prize will wrap up the Nobel season on Monday, October 8. For the first time since 1949, the Swedish Academy has postponed the announcement of the 2018 Nobel Literature Prize until next year, amid a #MeToo scandal and bitter internal dispute that has prevented it from functioning properly. AFP Turning light into tools Inventions by the three scientists date back to mid-1980s and over the years their breakthroughs in laser technology have turned light beams into precision tools for everything from eye surgery to micro-machining Of optical tweezers and high-intensity lasers editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, October 3 The Maharashtra Government on Wednesday moved the Supreme Court against a Delhi High Court order ending house arrest of Gautam Navlakha, one of the five activists arrested for alleged Maoist links in the Koregaon-Bhima violence case. An HC Bench had on Monday allowed Navlakha to walk free while quashing a subordinate courts order granting transit remand. Navlakha had moved the high court before prominent intellectuals, including historian Romila Thapar, had approached the top court, which refused to interfere with the matter last week. In a pan-India crackdown on August 28, poet Varavara Rao was arrested in Hyderabad, activists Vernon Gonsalves and Arun Ferreira in Mumbai, trade unionist and lawyer Sudha Bhardwaj in Faridabad and civil liberties activist Gautam Navlakha in Delhi for suspected Maoist links. The five activists were put under house arrest on August 29 following an SC order. In its petition, the Maharashtra Government said when the SC had extended the period of house arrest of the activists by four weeks, it was not necessary for the HC to mention about end of house arrest. It contended the high court misread the Criminal Procedure Code while allowing Navlakha to be freed from house arrest. The case in hand depicts misreading of section 167 (1) and (2) of Code of Criminal Procedure by the High Court while passing the impugned order, said the petition filed by Shivaji Panditrao Pawar, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Pune. Section 167 (1) states that in case an accused is to be produced before the jurisdictional magistrate, then it is incumbent upon the police to produce the case diary. But in case the police applied for transit remand before a Magistrate having no jurisdiction, it was not necessary for the police to produce the case diary, it said. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Kolkata, October 2 The holiday in his school on account of Gandhi Jayanti turned out to have ominous consequence for eight-year-old Bibhas Ghosh who died in an explosion that rocked the Nagerbazar area of the city on Tuesday. Since it was a holiday, Bibhas was accompanying his mother to the house where she worked as a maid. If it was not a holiday, he would have been off to his school and would not have lost his life, said Joy Ghosh, Bibhass father, who works in a confectionary shop in the area. Bibhashs mother Basanti Ghosh and 10 others were injured in the explosion which took place in front of a godown which is at the ground floor of a five-storey building. Basanti and another person is said to be in a serious condition. TMC MLA Sujit Basu had initially claimed that the explosion could be a LPG cylinder blast. But this has been ruled out by the police. Barrackpore Police Commissioner Rajesh Kumar said the explosion appeared to have resulted from a socket bomb blast. amansharma@tribunemail.com New Delhi, October 3 A clean and green environment is at the root of his governments policies, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said here on Wednesday as he was presented the UNs Champions of the Earth Award by United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres. Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron were jointly awarded the UNs highest environmental honour for their pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and promoting new areas of cooperation on environmental action. In his address, Modi said climate and calamity are linked to culture, and it will be difficult to avoid calamity as long as concerns for the climate do not become a part of culture. From agriculture and industrial policies to building houses and construction of toilets, the need for a clean environment has been driving his governments programmes, Modi said. Indias commitment to environment has only increased, he said, adding that his government is working to bring down emission intensity by 20-25 per cent in the next two years against its 2005 figure and by 30-35 per cent by 2030. We have also pledged to get rid of single-use plastics by 2022, he said in his speech. Citing ancient Hindu shlokas and texts, the prime minister also referred to Indias traditions to assert that respecting nature had always been part of Indian society. He said his government has succeeded in changing peoples behaviour accordingly, an apparent reference to Swachhta Abhiyan. The honour bestowed on him is a recognition of Indian tribes living in forests who respect trees more than their lives, its fishermen who capture only as much fish as they need to earn their living and farmers whose lives are intertwined with the cycle of seasons, he said. It is also an honour for Indian women who have worshipped trees as gods.Reuse and recycle have always been a part of their lives, the prime minister said. Indians have always treated nature as a living organism, he said. The poor are the worst victims of climate change, he said, adding that his government has been pursuing policies to further quicken the rate of economy growth to give them a life of dignity. Crores of people have come out of extreme poverty in the last few years, Modi said. Cutting edge technology and renewable energy are the basis of his governments smart city project, while per drop more crop, soil health card and organic farming are a priority in agriculture, he said. Modi said he had spoken about climate justice during the Paris agreement, which was signed in 2016 with an aim to deal with climate change. The whole world has committed to it but a lot needs to be done to execute it on the ground, he added. PTI editorial@tribune.com Ruchika M Khanna Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 2 Agriculture experts warn that the government-sponsored IN-SITU paddy straw management is a short-sighted approach and is sure to deplete Punjab's precarious soil health. Ploughing crop residue back into the soil will not do, they emphasise. Various farm unions in Punjab have already rejected this management plan, terming it as economically unviable. "It makes no sense to buy eqipment that will be used for just a fortnight in a year," they argue. Punjab, that gets Rs 695 crore from the Centre for paddy straw management over a period of two years, has spent Rs 269 crore this year. This technique approved and adopted in Punjab and other paddy- growing states may result in "invisible" soil pollution which may impact productivity and sustainability, say experts. "Ploughing the straw back into the fields will lead to higher methane emissions, a gas 21 per cent more dangerous than carbon dioxide. The best way is to convert this into CBG (cannabigerol). Farmyard manure (FYM) made from CBG residue is much better for the crops, explains JS Samra, former Chief Executive Officer, Niti Aayog. A study by experts from India and the UK on the Indo-Gangetic plains, published in the Journal of Integrative Environmental Sciences, points out that methane emissions from rice constitute 21 per cent of the total agricultural emissions. These, along with emissions associated with production and transportation of fertilisers, makes the rice-wheat system a major contributor to agriculture greenhouse gas emissions in India. The study also points out that the retention of crop residue in the soil is likely to induce nitrogen oxide emissions. Entrepreneur Sanjeev Nagpal says he raised his voice against IN-SITU management at various fora and finally set up a CBG plant at Fazilka, whose capacity he intends to raise to 20,000 units of power. The Government of India too has begun promoting compressed biogas production. Expressions of interest have been invited for CBG plants. The plan is to set up 5,000 plants in five years. In Punjab too several CBG plants are expected to become functional with a German company setting up a plant in Sangrur by next year. Most messages sent via email, voicemail or social media are never seen or heard by those who shape laws or policy. When such communications are considered at all, they are simply tallied up by low-level staffers as responses for and against a particular nominee or bill. Individual members almost never know the source of these opinions, much less how a specific constituent articulated her views and concerns. The ability to use social media to propagate a message is certainly important and empowers everyone to have a voice. But just because everyone can speak publicly doesnt mean anyone is truly being heard. amansharma@tribunemail.com Smita Sharma Tribune News Service New Delhi, October 3 Russian President Vladimir Putin will arrive on Thursday evening to hold the annual strategic dialogue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi. The visit assumes significance given the two sides have conveyed their decision to go ahead with signing of the S400 missile agreement, despite heat of secondary sanctions India could face under American law CAATSA unless President Donald Trump allows a waiver. Giving bilateral ties a new political push, greater energy cooperation, situation in Syria where Russia is a major player , Iran nuclear deal and US sanctions, Moscow's military pact with Pakistan as well as reconciliation efforts with Taliban in Afghanistan are expected to figure in talks. "During talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the President of Russia will discuss key aspects of the further development of Russian-Indian privileged strategic partnership and exchange opinions on current international and regional issues. A series of documents will be signed following the talks," said a Kremlin official release. India's increased proximity and defence cooperation with US in the Indo-Pacific are likely to find mention when the top leaders talks. The issue was raised according to informed sources during External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj's visit to Moscow last month for consultations. "They expressed concerns about some other countries trying to manipulate the Indo-Pacific concept. EAM said India has always been a responsible, big country trying to carry others along, but the strategy is not specifically directed against any one country," said a government official On Friday the two leaders will hold one on one and delegation talks and attend a Russian-Indian Business Forum.They will also meet with select students from India and Russian Sirius educational centre in Sochi which PM Modi visited during his informal summit with Putin in May. Putin will also meet with President Kovind. Differing positions on Taliban will also be discussed. Russia and Iran believe an increase in Islamic State in Afghanistan with fighters returning from Iraq and Syria. While New Delhi feels that some 70 per cent of fighters claiming to be IS belong to Orakzai in Pakistan and attention should not be diverted away from Taliban which remains biggest threat to Afghan stability. India has conveyed to Russia that it will be a participant to any Moscow initiated dialogue with Taliban only if the elected Afghan government is in the room as well. Meanwhile, sources said Russia is keen on railways sector and aluminium exports that need some duty issues to be addressed. Both sides are seeking greater agriculture access. Russia has asked India to explore Arctic LNG 2 option, while timeline for Kudankulam 5 and 6 nuclear projects are being finalised. vermaajay1968@gmail.com Lalit Mohan Tribune News Service Dharamsala, October 2 The shepherds stranded in Bara Bhangal valley could not be rescued so far as the Thumbsar Pass remained closed due to heavy snow. The two teams sent by the Kangra administration to assess the situation had to return empty-handed as they could not cross the pass. Bara Bhangal is a remote village that is accessible only through 50 kms of trekking in the hills. The shepherds have been stuck there for the past around 10 days. Kangra Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar said he had requested the government to provide a helicopter so that food items could be airdropped for the shepherds. Baijnath SDM Vikas Shukla said 32 deras (shepherds with herds of sheep) are stranded on the Bara Bhangal side. Shepherd Rakesh Kumar has gone missing. The SDM said the vice-pradhan of the Bara Bhangal panchayat had informed him that they were providing rations to shepherds from their village. He said the work to repair the bridge over the Kala Handi river (a tributary of the Ravi) would begin as soon as weather cleared in the area. Activist Akshay Jasrotia, who accompanied the government teams, said in case the weather at Thumbsar Pass did not clear over the next 10 days, the stranded shepherds would most probably cross over to the Chamba side. However, treks on that side are so narrow that only sheep can cross them. The shepherds would be forced to leave their horses in the valley. About 250 horses were likely to perish in the coming winters, causing huge financial losses to the shepherds, he said. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 2 Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh today handed over appointment letters to 31 persons under the Ghar Ghar Rozgar Scheme, besides cheques for debt waiver to 23 farmers and financial grant under the Ashirwad Scheme to five beneficiaries, after inaugurating a mega camp under the Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojana (MGSVY) in Mohali. The Chief Minister also interacted with the beneficiaries at various stalls during the camp, where about 4,000 were registered under various citizen-centric schemes. An MoU was signed between Invest Punjab and Mahindra Waste to Energy Solutions Limited for a project to convert waste to wealth at a cost of Rs 15 crore. After extensive research in Punjab, Mahindra & Mahindra has decided to execute this bio-methanation pilot project and offered to support the state government by processing 10,000 tonnes of paddy/wheat straw every year. This initiative is expected to provide a permanent solution to the menace of stubble-burning, generate direct employment for 50-75 persons and support around 1,000 farmers in the vicinity of the plant. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the MGSVY was launched in the state to ensure inclusive development by reaching out to all deprived sections of society and ensure that the benefits of all schemes of socio-economic development reached the poorest of the poor as a befitting tribute to the Mahatma. The CM said the Rural Development and Panchayat Department, being the nodal department, had organised mega camps in all 22 districts and 90 subdivisions of the state. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Moga, October 2 AAP district president Nasib Singh Bawa and 15 others have been booked for allegedly assaulting district Bar association president Rajpal Sharma. However, no one was arrested till the filing of this report. Sharma said he had called a meeting of the Bar association on the premises of the district courts complex on Monday during which Bawa, also a lawyer, and his associates allegedly assaulted him after a verbal duel. They also threatened me of dire consequences, he told the police. A senior police officer said a criminal case under sections 379-B, 341, 506 and 149 of the IPC had been registered against Bawa, district bar association general secretary Jagdish Bawa, Karan Sachdeva, Navish Jain, Hardeep Singh, Harman Singh and some unidentified persons. Sharma said the AAP leader leveled certain allegations against him regarding functioning of the association and when he tried to clarify, Bawa and his associates attacked him. Sharma alleged that some of his gold ornaments and a watch were also stolen during the clash. Preliminary investigation revealed that there was a dispute between Bawa and Sharma over the presidents post, which led to the scuffle. Earlier, Bawa had been the president of the Bar association for about 15 years but he lost the post in the last elections. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 2 The Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) have opposed a decision of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to merge the Chandigarh Police with the Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Daman and Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli (DANIPS) cadre. The Centre had, on September 25, notified new rules to amalgamate the police forces in six Union Territories. Congress MP Partap Singh Bajwa said the notification of rules, without Punjabs consent, raised a question mark on the federal structure of the Constitution and on the principle of the division of powers between the Centre and the states. Enforcing new rules means that the BJP-led government at the Centre has given a perpetual status of a Union Territory to Chandigarh, he said. Bajwa said that as per an arrangement on the posting of officers in the UT, 60 per cent of officers were to be posted from Punjab and the rest from Haryana. This arrangement is to continue till Chandigarh is transferred to Punjab. It is surprising that the matter related to the transfer of Chandigarh to Punjab has not been decided, but new police rules have been enforced to replace the ones applicable in the Union Territory of Chandigarh. Minister for Cultural Affairs and Tourism Navjot Singh Sidhu said the Centres notification had shaken the foundation and purpose of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, and the Rajiv-Longowal Accord. In a letter to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday, Sidhu said in view of the notification, posts in Chandigarh would remain outside the ambit of Punjab and Haryana, and would be filled by the Centre. Another Cabinet Minister, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, blamed the BJPs alliance partner, the SAD. He said Akalis owed an explanation to the people of Punjab. Daljit Singh Cheema and other SADleaders had recently condemned the notification, stating that divesting Punjab of its rights in Chandigarh was in violation of Section 84 of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, which provided for an arrangement that employees of the Chandigarh administration would be drawn from Punjab and Haryana in the ratio of 60:40. In an official communique, Cheema urged the Centre to rescind the contentious notification which, he said, further diluted the Punjab Governments share in its capital. Capt to approach PM editorial@tribune.com Aditi Tandon Tribune News Service New Delhi, October 3 The Punjab Congress today told the party high command that it did not want any alliance in the state for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in 2019. Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh and state Congress chief Sunil Jakhar conveyed this sentiment to the party top brass at a meeting to elicit views of states on potential alliances. The meeting is part of Congress preparations for the 2019 General Election and earlier for state elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Telangana. The committee formed earlier by Congress president Rahul Gandhi comprises senior party leaders AK Antony, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Ahmed Patel, Jairam Ramesh, Mallikarjun Kharge and Ashok Gehlot. After the meeting that lasted half an hour at the Congress war room on the Gurdwara Rakabganj Road here, Amarinder Singh said the Congress was in a comfortable position to win all 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab on its own. The state is witnessing a gradual decline of AAP and massive turbulence and friction within SAD. The state Congress unit has also said there was no need to seek out any alliance with the Mayawati-led BSP in the state. Speaking to The Tribune today, Congress in charge for Punjab Asha Kumari said, The consolidated and comprehensive view of the state unit is we dont need any alliances in Punjab. And this has been conveyed. Rahul Gandhi will finally take a call on alliances but the first part of the exercise is to ask states what they think of the need of pacts. editorial@tribune.com Jalandhar, October 2 Minister for SC/BC Welfare Sadhu Singh Dharamsot has said 70 out of 100 admissions under the SC post-matric scholarship scheme were found fake in some colleges. On the delay in giving funds under the scheme for the last three years, he said, Each case will be looked into and then funds will be released. Dharamsot was here to hand over job letters to beneficiaries under a government scheme. He said embezzlements were detected in the audit conducted for utilisation of the SC scholarship scheme during the SAD-BJP rule. TNS editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 2 The rebel group of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Tuesday demanded that the Justice Gurnam Singh Commission report on the 1986 Nakodar firing and an action-taken report should be tabled in the next Assembly session. The state government, the rebel group demanded, should apologise to the families of the persons killed in police firing in Nakodar 32 years ago. A spokesperson for Sukhpal Khaira-led AAP and Kharar MLA Kanwar Sandhu has written to Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh in this connection, demanding formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for further action. He has also demanded adequate compensation for the aggrieved families. The report was never made public, as families of the victims await justice even after 32 years, the spokesperson said. He said the incident in Nakodar was triggered by burning of the birs of the Guru Granth Sahib in a gurdwara on February 2, 1986. editorial@tribune.com GS Paul Tribune News Service Amritsar, October 2 A US-based woman, who had landed here a fortnight ago to meet her Facebook friend, flew back home with her parents last evening. Whitney Harris (22), a gym trainer in Maryland, had left for India to meet local youth Pulkit Monga (20) without taking her parents in the loop. The latter panicked after social media posts suggested that she might have fallen prey to human trafficking. They had arrived in the holy city a few days later and met Pulkits family. Following the intervention of MLA Dr Raj Kumar Verka and the police, Whitney returned to the US with her family. She could not meet Pulkit before her departure as he had been detained by cops. Pulkit, a student of Class XII, told The Tribune that negative propaganda about him on social media had played spoilsport. Her passport was taken into possession by her parents, but her luggage and laptop are still with me, he added. He clarified that they had no immediate plans to get married. She had come here to meet me and my family. We never wanted to bring a bad name to our families by taking an undesirable step. I will attain marriageable age (21) in April 2019, he said. Pulkit said, I posted a message on her Facebook page and she called me up. She is committed to meeting me again, he added. Jeevan Jyot, a social worker who had helped trace Whitney, said, I, too, received her message that she wanted to stay with Pulkits family for more time, but eventually did her parents bidding. amansharma@tribunemail.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 3 Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has dismissed the Centre's decision to hike MSP of wheat by Rs 105 per quintal as a joke on the beleaguered farmers of the country. The hike was inadequate and short of the recommendations of the MS Swaminathan Commission, which needed to be implemented in toto for any significant difference to be made to the lives of the farmers, said Captain Amarinder Singh in a statement issued here. The Chief Minister pointed out that he had been personally pursuing the matter of full implementation of the Swaminathan Commission report, along with Rs 100 per quintal as compensation to farmers in lieu of not burning the paddy residue. However, the Centre had failed on both counts, clearly indicating its non-seriousness on the issue of farmer welfare and environmental pollution, he added. The Chief Minister further pointed out that the farming community across the country had also been fighting for the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission recommendations, in totality, to ensure better returns for the farmers. Captain Amarinder Singh said the BJP-led central government had, in the past over four years, failed to take any positive steps for the farmers, or for any other section of the society. The BJP-led government at the Centre had promised to double farmers' income, but the promise remains unfulfilled even as the government is coming to an end of its tenure, he added. Maybe district officials hoped that federal education officials would look the other way under the Trump administration. Just the opposite. After the Tribune published Betrayed, federal officials demanded that CPS produce reports on its handling of every allegation of sexual violence dating to 2011. The office also sought CPS files on how the district has conducted background checks and how it has monitored criminal convictions of existing staff back to 2011. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 3 The SAD extended its support to Scheduled Caste students, who attempted to gherao the residence of Minister for Welfare of Scheduled Castes Sadhu Singh Dharamsot in Sector 39 here this afternoon. The SC students, who had converged here from different parts of Punjab, were protesting against the Congress governments inability to release Rs 327 crore received from the Centre for the post-matric scholarship to SC students. Unruly scenes were witnessed when the Chandigarh Police stopped the students and the three Akali legislators Pawan Kumar Tinu, Dr Sukhwinder Sukhi and Baldev Khera from staging a dharna outside the ministers residence and asked them to move out of the ministerial complex. The leaders and students then staged a dharna outside the ministerial complex, even as heated words were exchanged between the MLAs and police. Raising anti-government slogans, the protesters asked Dharamsot to explain where the Rs 327 crore received for the SC scholarship from the Centre three months back had disappeared. They demanded not only immediate release of the Central grant, but also state assistance of Rs 68 crore as per the scheme. The students, while raising slogans against Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, condemned him for changing his stance every day. They said the minister had first promised to release scholarship grant in February this year, then promised the same in the Vidhan Sabha in March and then shifted the date to September 30, during a statement given to the media in August. Now Dharamsot has given a fresh statement saying the money will be released in December, they added. The students said Dharamsots statement was also against the written assurance given by Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh that the scholarship amount would be released soon. Stating that more than one lakh Dalit students had been unable to take admission in colleges this year due to the Congress governments refusal to release funds for the same, they said now another two lakh students faced a bleak future with college managements refusing to let them sit for examinations next month unless they paid the tuition fee. amansharma@tribunemail.com Amritsar, October 3 United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Wednesday paid obeisance at the Golden Temple in Amritsar and was honoured with a 'siropa'. A 'siropa' is placed around the neck but is intended to be worn on the head as a 'dastaar' (turban). During his visit to the Golden Temple, Guterres was accompanied by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. He also visited the community kitchen at the Golden Temple, where he keenly watched the cooking process and participated in 'langar'. "I paid tribute to the Sikh community worldwide and I express my deep respect for this holy place where all religions are accepted in a wonderful," he wrote in the visitor book of Golden Temple. After reaching the shrine, he was received by Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee president Gobind Singh Longowal and SGPC chief secretary Roop Singh. Guterres had reached the Shri Guru Ramdas International Airport near Amritsar from Delhi in a special aircraft of the Indian Air Force. He was received at the airport by Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal and Chief Secretary Karan Avtar Singh. At the Golden Temple, he was also honoured with a woollen shawl, replica of Golden Temple and set of Sikh religious books by SGPC president Longowal. - PTI editorial@tribune.com Aashish Kochhar Sadat Hasan Manto, who dared to lay bare the truth unfiltered in his numerous writings, seems to have come alive again, six decades after his death. A biopic on the controversial author has created a buzz on the social media, attracting youngsters to his works. This has left his friends and associates elated. They say they can almost hear his footsteps in the narrow lanes of the old city of Amritsar where he lived as a young fellow, nurturing his thoughts, before leaving for Bombay, and then Pakistan. Not just a great author, he was an extraordinary person too. The fire of honesty and courage in his eyes could not be missed, said Bharpur Singh, a former CID officer who now lives in Australia, only too glad to reminisce about his childhood friend. I was a student of Pt Bajnath High School outside Amritsars Hall Gate and Manto of the nearby Islamia High School. Every other day he would be punished for bunking classes. He would spend the entire day glued to books, struck by the boldness with which European authors presented the true face of society. Bharpur Singh would often accompany Manto to his house in Kucha Vakilan in Katra Jaimal Singh. Mantos mothers hospitality was overwhelming. She was always happy to serve us meals, he recalled. They had a common friend, Hari Singh, who lived in an adjacent lane. All three were members of Mian Ghulam Sadik Library located in the districts Town Hall, renamed as Pandit Motilal Nehru Municipal Library post Independence. They would spend hours together there. When they couldnt find a book they were searching for, they would visit Qureshi Book Store in Kucha Kanjariyan in Mughal Bazar, now called Pratap Bazar. Mantos works became popular. This drew him close to renowned authors such as Faiz Ahmad Faiz. He shifted to Bombay. Once a friend went to meet him, but Manto had by then attained great heights and had become inaccessible. After Partition, he shifted to Lahore. I could not bid him adieu, said Bharpur Singh, sounding remorseful. Om Prakash Soni, who resides in Batala Road area of Amritsar, remembers his first meeting with Manto. Dressed in a white kurta-pyjama and a cigar in mouth, he was reading a book. As a Railways employee in Lahore in the early Forties, he was visiting a bookstore, Mahtab Azeez, owned by his friend Chaudhry Bashir Ahmad, who told me that Manto was in the shop. I was too shy to approach him, but the brief encounter left me awe-struck. Much later at a meeting of writers in Amritsar, renowned poet Agha Hashar Kashmiri referred to Manto as Minto, confusing him with Lord Mintos relative. Offended, Soni corrected him there and then. Sudarshan Kapoor, a lawyer and educationist, also from Amritsar, was a member of the Lok Likhari Sabha. So was Manto. The Sabha members, all progressive writers, were distressed at the controversies and lawsuits regarding Mantos works. They believed it would take at least 50 years for the society to be mature enough to respect his works. Today, they feel vindicated. Manto's writings have become immortal, a joy beyond words. Kapoor and his friend Sharvan Kumar Sharma visited Lahore in 1955 to meet Manto. Sadly, they were told he had died just a week ago. Grief-stricken, they returned home, Kapoor carrying with him many of Mantos books, his prized possessions. Whenever low, I read his book. The mere thought of the writer makes me smile. Only a handful of people who knew Manto since his Amritsar days are alive. They have one grievance that Amritsar has no memorial in his honour. Manto must not be allowed to be forgotten. Generations to come should know that there was once a Manto, who spoke nothing but the truth, pleaded Kapoor. (The writer is a Mass Communication student) uttara@tribuneindia.com Washington Deep space travel, such as a journey to Mars, can significantly damage the gastrointestinal (GI) tissue of astronauts, and raise the risk of stomach and colon tumours, according to scientists including one of Indian origin. Simulations with animal models that mirror galactic cosmic radiation exposure to astronauts are raising red flags for the researchers at Georgetown University in the US about the health of astronauts. The study, published in the journal PNAS, suggests that deep space bombardment by galactic cosmic radiation (GCR) could significantly damage gastrointestinal (GI) tissue leading to long-term functional alterations. Their previous work has highlighted potential impairment to brain tissue as well as accelerated aging on long space trips due to the effect of energetic heavy ions, which do not affect Earthlings due to the protective global magnetosphere. Heavy ions such as iron and silicon are damaging because of their greater mass compared to no-mass photons such as X-rays and gamma-rays prevalent on earth as well as low mass protons in outer space, said Kamal Datta, an associate professor at the NASA Specialised Center of Research (NSCOR). With the current shielding technology, it is difficult to protect astronauts from the adverse effects of heavy ion radiation, said Datta. Although there may be a way to use medicines to counter these effects, no such agent has been developed yet, he said. While short trips, like the times astronauts travelled to the Moon, may not expose them to this level of damage, the real concern is lasting injury from a long trip such as a Mars or other deep space missions that would be much longer, he said. The GI tract is a self-renewing tissue with continuous cell division or proliferation, researchers said. The top layer of cells is replaced every three to five days through coordinated migration of new cells from the bottom of a flask shaped structure called crypt towards the lumen of the gut. Any disturbance of this replacement mechanism leads to malfunctioning of physiologic processes such as nutrient absorption and starts pathologic processes such as cancer, said Albert Fornace, director of the NSCOR. To investigate the effect of heavy ions on the GI tract, the scientists used mouse small intestine as a model system. The mice were exposed to a low dose of iron radiation at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (NSRL). Researchers compared the group of mice that received heavy ions to mice exposed to gamma rays, which are comparable to X-rays, and to a third, unexposed control group. The scientists found that intestinal cells in the heavy ion group did not adequately absorb nutrients and that they formed cancerous polyps. Additionally, there was evidence that iron radiation induced DNA damage that increased the number of senescent cells. Senescent cells are incapable of normal cell division but they are not quiet, said Datta. PTI laxmi@tribune.com IN no part of India do the authorities seem to have satisfactorily dealt with the control of food prices. The Madras Government trace the recent food riots to the weakening of respect for authority which had been brought about by unbridled agitation during ten years. In other words, if there were no agitation, no newspapers, no public speaking and discussion, there would have been no food riots. It is amazing that the Government, instead of examining the economic causes, lays the blame on political agitation. The remedy it has suggested for the prevention of further troubles is to increase the food supplies. This should bring down prices, but what about hoarding and speculation? In regard to cloth, it has been ascertained that merchants have more than two years supply, but they withhold sales as a matter of speculation. vermaajay1968@gmail.com AS will be seen from a telegram published in its usual place, the Reception Committee of the next ordinary Congress have unanimously elected Mr. Bal Gangadhar to the Presidentship of that Congress. Mr. Tilak had been nominated by 11 out of 12 Provincial Congress Committees, and the Reception Committee are to be congratulated on the unanimity with which they accepted the view of this majority. The Committee decided that the news of his election should be cabled to Mr. Tilak to the first port at which his boat might be expected to touch. As for the order of the Delhi administration, prohibiting Mr. Tilak from entering or residing in that Province, we are confident that the authorities will do one of two things. Either they will cancel the order out of deference to public opinion which must become in India what it is in every other modern country, the irresistible and unresisted master of Governments: or at any rate they will keep the order against Mr. Tilak in abeyance. editorial@tribune.com Beijing, October 2 The US has accused a Chinese naval ship of conducting unsafe and unprofessional manoeuvres when one of its warships entered the waters of the disputed South China Sea. China on Tuesday expressed its strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the US warship sailing near the islands and reefs claimed by it in the South China Sea (SCS). On September 30, without permission of the Chinese government, the US destroyer Decatur entered neighbouring waters of islands and reefs of Chinas Nansha Islands, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said in a statement on Tuesday. The Chinese naval ship identified the US vessel, warned and expelled it, Hua said, stressing that China has indisputable sovereignty of the Nansha islands (Spratly Islands) and its adjacent waters. An official US statement described the move by the Chinese destroyer as unsafe because it moved within 41 m of the US warship. US Pacific Fleet deputy spokesman Nate Christensen said the Chinese destroyer had approached USS Decatur in an unsafe and unprofessional manoeuvre in the vicinity of Gaven Reef in the South China Sea. The PRC destroyer conducted a series of increasingly aggressive manoeuvres accompanied by warnings for Decatur to depart the area, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post quoted Christensen as saying. After the Chinese ship came within 45 yards (41 metres) of Decaturs bow it moved to prevent a collision, the report said. The US has been sending periodic air and naval expeditions to assert its right of the freedom of the navigation in the SCS. The movement of the US naval ships and aircraft through the area has increased since President Donald Trump took the office. China routinely objects the US presence to register its claims. PTI harinder@tribunemail.com Birmingham, October 2 Former British Foreign Minister Boris Johnson set out his stall to the Conservative Party faithful on Tuesday, stopping just short of an outright leadership bid to replace Prime Minister Theresa May but tearing into her Brexit blueprint. To standing ovations, cheers and laughter, Johnson, May's most powerful critic in her governing party, said her so-called Chequers plan to leave the European Union was a cheat and called on the party to return to its traditional values, including tax cuts and stricter law and order. He also urged increased spending on the public health service. With just six months before Britain leaves the EU, May's precarious position at the helm of her party has been further shaken by criticism of her plans at home and in Brussels. Johnson, the figurehead for the campaign to leave the EU, warned party members that if they stuck by Chequers, named after May's country residence where she hashed out an agreement with her ministers, they could be signing up to the party's electoral death. But he was quick to add he would stick by May, if not her plan, at least for now. Do not believe them when they say there is no other plan and no alternative, Johnson told the hundreds of Conservatives who queued to get a seat in a hall just across from the main venue where May will speak at the partys annual conference on Wednesday. "Do not believe that we can somehow get it wrong now, bodge it now and fix it later," he said to cheers. "This is the moment to chuck Chequers," he said. If we cheat the electorate, and Chequers is a cheat, we will escalate that sense of mistrust. Reuters editorial@tribune.com Vilnius, October 3 Lithuanias phone-addicted pedestrians will have to do without mobile devices when they cross streets under a new regulation approved on Wednesday as the Baltic country seeks to curb traffic deaths. Pedestrians must not use mobile devices before stepping onto the street or walking across it, Transport Minister Rokas Masiulis told a cabinet meeting. Starting next month, crossing the street while talking on or checking a phone could cost a fine of up to 40 euros ($46). Honolulu introduced a similar law last year, though the state capital of Hawaii only banned viewing a mobile device during crossings, not talking on the phone. Last year, 68 pedestrians were killed by cars or motorcycles in Lithuania, a eurozone member of 2.8 million people. AFP Checking mishaps editorial@tribune.com Islamabad, October 2 Irked by former dictator Pervez Musharrafs failure to come back to Pakistan and face ongoing cases against him, Chief Justice Saqib Nisar on Tuesday warned that if the courageous commando does not appear soon, he may be forced to return in a disgraceful manner. Chief Justice Nisar made the remarks when Musharrafs lawyer told the three-judge bench that his client respects the court but was unable to return due to his medical condition and reservations over the provision of security, Dawn newspaper reported. Musharraf, 75, who has been living in Dubai since 2016, is facing the high-profile treason case for suspending the Constitution in 2007. The former military ruler left for Dubai in March 2016 for medical treatment and has not returned since. His lawyer told the court that there were no charges against the former president in the Lal Masjid operation case and demanded to know what the case against his client was, the paper reported. He may not face any charges in the Lal Masjid case, but he is facing a treason case for which he must appear in court, replied Chief Justice Nisar. Why is the courageous commando not returning? he asked. I told you before that if he returns, he will be provided security, the top judge said. He also advised that the former dictator should get medical treatment in Pakistan, the paper said. I am giving you this assurance. It is the assurance of the highest court in the country, Chief Justice Nisar said and added that: As long as (Musharraf) is alive, it is his duty to appear before the court. He further said that it was not acceptable for a citizen to leave the country and not return while a case against them is underway in courts. The chief justice also promised that the former military ruler would not be arrested upon his return, and that whatever the outcome of the cases, it would be strictly in line with the law. The court ordered Musharrafs lawyer to submit his medical report within a week and adjourned the hearing until October 11. Last week, Muhammad Amjad, a leader of the All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) a political party floated by Musharraf in 2010 had said that the former president was growing weaker rapidly due to an unspecified illness and, therefore, could not return to Pakistan. The former Army chief has been declared an absconder due to his persistent failure to appear before a special trial court set up to try him in the case. PTI You would keep the horses away from the merchandise. Goods were kept in a central warehouse for pick-up by wagon teams stabled in various locations most often one on the West Side, South Side and North Side. Wagons and horses for South Side deliveries would be kept in the South Side stable. Goods would be picked up at the warehouse, deliveries would be made throughout the South Side and the horse and wagon would be returned to the stable after making the last delivery. editorial@tribune.com Palu, October 2 More than 1,200 people are now known to have died in the quake-tsunami that smashed into Sulawesi, Indonesia said on Tuesday, as the police pledged to clamp down on looting by survivors taking advantage of the chaos. There were reports of officers firing warning shots and tear gas to ward off people ransacking shops in Palu, a coastal city ravaged by a 7.5-magnitude quake and the tsunami it spawned. Almost 200,000 people are in need of urgent help, the United Nations says, among them thousands of children. Survivors are battling thirst and hunger, with food and clean water in short supply, and local hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of injured. Police said they had previously tolerated desperate survivors taking food and water from closed shops, but had now arrested 35 people for stealing computers and cash. Rescue efforts have been hampered by a lack of heavy machinery, severed transport links, the scale of the damage, and the Indonesian governments reluctance to accept foreign help. As if to remind the world of the tectonic fragility of Indonesia, a series of quakes hit the island of Sumba on Tuesday, albeit hundreds of kilometres from Palu. The official death toll from the tragedy in central Sulawesi stood at 1,234, according to the government. The Indonesian military is leading the rescue effort, but following a reluctant acceptance of help by President Joko Widodo, international NGOs also have teams on the ground in Palu. Among the dead are dozens of students whose lifeless bodies were pulled from their landslide-swamped church in Sulawesi. A total of 34 bodies were found by the team, Indonesia Red Cross spokeswoman Aulia Arriani said after the grim discovery, adding that 86 students had initially been reported missing from a Bible camp at the Jonooge Church Training Centre. AFP uttara@tribuneindia.com Stockholm, October 3 US scientists Frances Arnold and George Smith and British researcher Gregory Winter won the Nobel Chemistry Prize on Wednesday for applying the principles of evolution to develop enzymes used to make everything from biofuels to medicine. Arnold, just the fifth woman to clinch chemistrys most prestigious honour, won one half of the nine million Swedish kronor (about $1.01 million or 870,000 euros) award, while Smith and Winter shared the other half. The 2018 Nobel Laureates in Chemistry have taken control of evolution and used it for purposes that bring the greatest benefit to humankind, the Swedish Royal Academy of Sciences said. The trio used the same principles of evolutiongenetic change and selectionto develop proteins used in a range of fields. They have applied the principles of Darwin in test tubes. They have used the molecular understanding we have of the evolutionary process and recreated the process in their labs, the head of the Academys Nobel Chemistry committee, Claes Gustafsson, told reporters. They have been able to make evolution many 1000s of times faster and redirect it to create new proteins. Arnold, 62, who has survived breast cancer and is a single mother to three sons, is a professor of chemical engineering at the California Institute of Technology. Her method of rewriting DNA to mimic evolution has helped solve problems such as replacing toxic chemicals like fossil fuels. As a result, renewable resources like sugar cane are being converted into biofuels. More environmentally friendly chemical substances are being developed, improving everyday products such as laundry and dishwashing detergents to enhance their performance in cold temperatures. The most beautiful, complex, and functional objects on the planet have been made by evolution. We can now use evolution to make things that no human knows how to design, Arnold said in 2016. Evolution is the most powerful engineering method in the world, and we should make use of it to find new biological solutions to problems, she said. Instead of pumping oil out of the ground for making gasoline, now we can use sunlight stored in plants. Meanwhile, Smith, of the University of Missouri, and Winter, a 67-year-old genetic engineer at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology at Cambridge, developed an elegant method known as phage display, where a bacteriophagea virus that infects bacteriacan be used to evolve new proteins, the jury said. Pharmaceuticals for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel diseases have resulted from their research, as well as anti-bodies that can neutralise toxins, counteract autoimmune diseases and cure metastatic cancer. The discoveries by George Smith and Greg Winter are having an enormous impact, particularly on medicine with antibody drugs that have fewer side effects and are more efficient, Goran Hansson, the head of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, told reporters. Alfred Nobel, who created the prizes in his will, was himself a chemist, and devised his famed awards in part to atone for inventing dynamite. Arnold, Smith and Winter will receive their prize from Swedens King Carl XVI Gustaf at a formal ceremony in Stockholm on December 10, the anniversary of Nobels 1896 death. Last year, the honour went to Jacques Dubochet, Joachim Frank and Richard Henderson for pioneering cryo-electron microscopy, a method for imaging tiny, frozen molecules. Earlier this week, two immunologists, James Allison of the US and Tasuku Honjo of Japan, won the Nobel Medicine Prize for research into how the bodys natural defences can fight cancer. A trio of physicistsArthur Ashkin of the US, Gerard Mourou of France and Donna Strickland of Canadashared the Physics Prize for inventing optical lasers now used in corrective eye surgery and in industry. The peace prize will be announced on Friday, and the economics prize will wrap up the Nobel season on Monday, October 8. For the first time since 1949, the Swedish Academy has postponed the announcement of the 2018 Nobel Literature Prize until next year, amid a #MeToo scandal and bitter internal dispute that has prevented it from functioning properly. AFP harinder@tribunemail.com The Hague, October 3 The World Court ordered the United States on Wednesday to ensure that sanctions against Iran, due to be tightened next month, do not affect humanitarian aid or civil aviation safety. Judges at the International Court of Justice handed a victory to Tehran, which had argued that sanctions imposed since May by the administration of US President Donald Trump violate the terms of a 1955 Treaty of Amity between the two countries. The ruling is likely to have at most limited practical impact on the implementation of sanctions, which Washington is reimposing and tightening after pulling out of the 2015 nuclear deal that Iran signed with world powers. The court order issued on Wednesday is temporary pending a resolution of Irans full lawsuit against Washington by the ICJ, something that could take years. Irans Foreign Ministry said in a statement the decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the US sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel. The United States must comply with its international commitments and lift obstacles to Iranian trade, it added. The ICJ is the United Nations highest court for resolving disputes between nations. Its rulings are binding, but it has no power to enforce them, and both the United States and Iran have ignored them in the past. The court said assurances offered by Washington to ensure sanctions do not affect humanitarian conditions were not adequate. The court considers that the US must...remove by means of its choosing any impediment arising from the measures announced on 8 May 2018, said Presiding Judge Abdulqawi Yusuf, reading a summary of a ruling by the 15-member panel of justices. The sanctions may not hurt exportation to the territory of Iran of goods required for humanitarian needs such as medicines, medical devices and foodstuffs and agricultural commodities as well as goods and services required for the safety of civil aviation, he said. While US sanctions in principle exempt food and medical supplies, the court said it has become difficult if not impossible for Iran, Iranian nationals and companies to engage in international financial transactions to purchase such goods. The Trump administration argued last month that Irans request was an attempt to misuse the court and that the 1955 treaty specifically ruled out using courts to resolve disputes. US State Department Legal Adviser Jennifer Newstead had said Irans real quarrel was its frustration over the US pullout from the nuclear pact, under which Tehran restricted its disputed uranium enrichment programme under UN monitoring in exchange for a lifting of most international sanctions. Reuters In 2016 Akilah Kafi Sharpe enrolled in the Trinidad and Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (Hotel School) to follow her dream of pursuing an Associate degree in Culinary Management. Unfortunately, while, in her last semester, she was unable to complete her degree due to the restriction of GATE funding. The state of emergency (SoE) will come to an end almost two weeks earlier than expected, as Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley has announced that the SoE will be lifted when Parliament meets on Wednesday. The SoE was set to legally expire on November 29. It was originally declared by President Paula-Mae Weekes on May 15. On May 24, it was extended for three months. Senator Antonio Trillanes IV on Wednesday met face-to-face with the head of the government aMetro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 3) gency that had asked the court to have him arrested. The embattled senator was calm as he confronted Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra during a Senate hearing on the proposed budget of the Department of Justice (DOJ) for next year. "Your department is very powerful. You can be, for the matter, the instrument for dispensing justice. Sadly, in the wrong hands, it can be used also as an instrument of injustice," Trillanes told Guevarra who was seated across him. "Ang sakin dito, pag nakita niyong mali, 'wag. Even sa ASG (Assistant Solicitor General), pag nakita niyong hindi tama yan, you will have to say no," Trillanes added. [Translation: "For me, when you see that it's wrong, don't do it. Even for the Assistant Solicitor General, when you see something that's not right, you will have to say no."] Trillanes said it would take "a lot of moral courage" to do so, but stressed that the country needs strong and impartial institutions. "Kayo yung magiging sandigan ng mga nasa ilalim sa inyo. They can start saying no, kung yung sa taas alam nila na protektado sila." [Translation: "You will be the refuge of those under you. They can start saying no, if they know their higher-ups can protect them."] It was the first time the public saw Trillanes and Guevarra together since the DOJ asked two branches of the Makati Regional Trial Court (RTC) to issue an arrest warrant and hold departure order against the senator. This was in line with President Rodrigo Duterte's controversial Proclamation No. 572, which voided Trillanes' amnesty. Duterte said it was Solicitor General Jose Calida who initiated the review on Trillanes' amnesty. The government's top lawyer failed to attend Wednesday's hearing but sent Assistant Solicitor General Henry Angeles instead. Guevarra: We observe rule of law Trillanes seemed to have accepted his fate, but called on Guevarra to "let me be the last casualty (of injustice)." "What's done is done. I can be put away in prison or in detention without bail ah, for a missing application form. Palagay ko in any definition of justice talagang wala yun (I think, any definition of justice would say this is injustice). But ah, sige na (please) let me be the last casualty for that," Trillanes said. "I hope you can give your word Secretary Guevarra that the injustice stops with me," he added. Guevarra, for his part, said he agrees with Trillanes that the DOJ should not be used as a weapon to persecute anyone's political opponents, and stressed that the agency has been working towards serving justice for all. "I have always made it a point for the department to observe the rule of law and to base all of its actions on the available evidence and nothing else," Guevarra said. Guevarra was the officer-in-charge when the proclamation voiding Trillanes' amnesty came out on newspapers. The justice chief earlier said he was handed a copy of the proclamation at the airport before Duterte left for official visits to Israel and Jordan. Trillanes, a staunch critic of the Duterte administration, is out on bail after a branch of the Makati RTC revived his rebellion case and ordered him arrested. Another branch, which handles his non-bailable case for coup d'etat, has yet to rule on the DOJ's petition. Once this court orders Trillanes' arrest, the soldier-turned-lawmaker would be put behind bars. Trillanes, a former naval officer, was involved in the Oakwood mutiny in July 2003, the Marines stand-off in February 2006, and the Manila Peninsula incident in 2007 - which were all against then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Trillanes and fellow Magdalo soldiers were jailed, but walked free as former President Benigno Aquino III granted them amnesty in 2011. Recently, the Cook County inspector general issued a report that paints Pritzker and his family as engaging in a scheme to defraud his fellow taxpayers by obtaining a $330,000 property tax break through false representations. Wouldnt you think that this fact would reflect on who the man really is? I truly hope so, and once again ask, along with the Tribune, that Pritzker come clean and let us know how he will save our state. -:- Message from Tripadvisor staff -:- This post has been removed at the author's request. The author may repost if desired. Posts on the Tripadvisor forums may be edited for a short period of time. Once the edit period has expired, authors may update their posts by removing and reposting them. To read more about editing your posts, please follow this link: http://www.tripadvisor.com/help/how_to_edit_your_posts -:- Message from Tripadvisor staff -:- This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. We hope you'll join the conversation by posting to an open topic or starting a new one. To review the Tripadvisor Forums Posting Guidelines, please follow this link: http://www.tripadvisor.com/pages/forums_posting_guidelines.html We remove posts that do not follow our posting guidelines, and we reserve the right to remove any post for any reason. First time in Vietnam, travelling as a couple in Feb 2019 for 9 days. Need help with ideas on where to stay and things to see and do. Best places for shopping and food. Ideas on hotels and locations. Maybe tour companies that we could do for 7 days etc. Any help would be most welcome thank you. Hey guys I'm new to the forum and would like to know more about moving about in Tokyo. This is going to be pretty lengthy but I'll definitely appreciate any thoughts, comments or suggestions. Background: My wife, tot and I were booked to fly to Tokyo around Christmas this year, and somewhere along the line we found out that we were expecting a baby. The trip has since evolved into a 4 adult and 1 tot "village" with my ILs tagging along. So I know what I'm going to ask next has been debated to death with the general consensus being "HELL NO DON'T DRIVE IN TOKYO", but the option of driving has since resurfaced with the change in the situation. Now I completely understand that 1. Rental is expensive 2. Traffic is always bad 3. Parking is hard to come by 4. Parking is expensive 5. Tolls are exorbitant And that most people get by with the subway and metro just fine. But having a car with us would make the trip much more comfortable for the tot, my preggo Mrs, and the older folks, especially in the winter weather. Our 8 day itinerary is extremely simple. Haneda Airport -> Gunma -> Tokyo/Mount Fuji/Disneyland/Tokyo Surroundings -> Haneda Airport. All our accommodations provide free on-site parking, so that's taken care of. And here's the part about Google Maps. It's my go-to for transport here in Singapore but I'm clueless as to whether the information in Japan is accurate. Here's an example of a trip from Shibuya to the Mount Fuji 5th Station according to Google Maps. a) Driving time: 2 hours 1 minute by the freeway (toll amounts to about $35 USD per way according to https://search.w-nexco.co.jp/route.php) b) Driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes by regular roads c) Public transit: 3 hours 24 minutes by train/bus @ $30 USD per passenger I'm scratching my head with this because driving seems like the no brainer in this comparison. A 4 hour vs 7 hour round trip (3 hours difference!), and $70 USD in tolls vs $150 USD for 5 tickets. I know that I've conveniently omitted the cost of fuel but fuel is a consumable like food, so I don't usually take that into consideration at all. Oh but wait, there is the cost of the car hire and that's $340 USD, picked and returned at Haneda ($43 USD per day). Can any locals or experts suggest whether the above time and fare information from Google Maps are accurate? Next example from Shibuya to Shinjuku within Tokyo itself a) Driving time: 13 minutes, no toll b) Public transit: 18 minutes by train and foot @ $1.50 USD per ticket I'm checking this at 1200hrs noon on Wednesday, and I am noticing coloured roads on Google Maps, which indicates that traffic is being monitored. Again, driving seems like a good choice since it's faster, granted I have no idea how difficult it will be to find a parking lot when I do get there. That being said, is Google Maps being accurate or realistic with the driving times? So I really want to visit this small museum while staying at the ryokan in Gunma. It's located at 36.465111, 138.969179 and according to Google Maps (sorry it's my go-to!), it's 6.6km away from the closest train station, and there is no public transit data. What's the last mile solution that locals take? Book an uber? Walk? Rent a car from the train station? The last mile question also comes up even in Tokyo where some places are 2km away from the closest convenient subway/metro station and while 2km is easy peasy for me, I have to factor the elderly, tot and preggo into the equation cos let's not forget it's another 2km back to the subway/metro when we're done. Perhaps Japan might not be the best place for us at this point in time but what's booked is booked and the tot really wants to see some snow. I guess the lowdown is that I really don't mind spending a little more money on hiring a car and paying for tolls and parking if it ultimately makes the trip more convenient, more comfortable and more enjoyable for the others. Google Maps seems to suggest that this is a possibility with reduced travel times, cheaper trip estimates and multiple routes to choose from, but I'm somehow not sold on the accuracy as it contradicts everything I've been reading on TA. Looking forward to your responses and I'll try to respond to each of you individually. Cheers! Since last week, when I wrote a column asking if the GOP couldnt do better than a judge who had become dogged by multiple reports that he had sexually attacked women in his youth, evidence has been piling up that Kavanaugh lied under oath before the Senate Judiciary Committee last week about his behavior and his drinking habits as a young man. And those lies are relevant because he told them to make it seem less plausible that the central allegations were true. Typhoons come and go; it's just strong wind and rain which can corrupt people's schedule for a day in Japan. 1.5 days, or maximum 2 days for the vast majority of people, because the flights and trains can be cancelled out of precaution or delayed. For most people in the cities, it's just plain nuisance as people would either have to go to work or leave work piled up to do on the next day. Unfortunately, large and strong typhoons can kill people, including the elderly farmers who really care about their crops or fruit and decide to go watch over the waterways, or children who are warned not to play in the rivers but still do. Some houses are vulnerable to strong winds and rain. It is a tragedy for the relatives of those affected; about five people lost their lives in Japan by the passing of Typhoon No.24 (Trami), which quite was probably the strongest one in 25 years (if the previous No.21 [Jebi] was not). It could have been worse if precautions were not made; it is worth noting that probably more people can be injured by car crash and other causes in a country of 127,108,000 people living in a land area of 378,000 km. Typhoons can affect people in different ways in different areas. Don't make a big hype about typhoons; it is carefully monitored, and precautionary measures are taken in Japan. A non-typhoon torrential rain caused much more damage than typhoon this summer. As tourists, expect storm and rain for a day or two, and bright sunshine after typhoon is gone. There is no need for panic. Edited: 3 years ago Re: How far ahead should we book attractions? 1. Re: How far ahead should we book attractions? The Empire State Building ticket is good for one year and it's good at anytime, so you can buy that in advance if you'd like. For a timed entry, such as TOTR and OWO, I'd wait until a day or two before, so you can check the weather. For the 9/11 Museum, it's a timed ticket, just fit it in where you have time. Plan on 3 hours and realize the museum is emotionally intense. Canada is a country of immigrants. With the exception of the Aboriginal Peoples, all Canadians are from or are descended from peoples of other lands. Consequently, Canadian cuisine is an eclectic mix of many cultures. Canada was home to the first culinary society in the New World, the Order of Good Cheer founded by Champlain in early 17th century Nova Scotia. Popular ethnic cuisines include the omnipresent Italian and Chinese restaurants. In larger communities, you'll likely find Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai, Indian, German, middle eastern, and Greek cuisine. In the cosmopolitan hubs of Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, you'll find anything and everything under the sun. One interesting difference between Canada and its American neighbor is Mexican restaurants. Though plentiful south of the border, they are considered more of a specialized cuisine here (with the exception of Taco Bell). Hamburgers: Although Canadians are just as fond of hamburgers as Americans are, Americans are sometimes dismayed that they are not able to order hamburgers cooked rare or medium-rare. Canadian health regulations require hamburgers to be cooked to well done, due to the risk of contamination by E. coli O157:H7. So don't blame the restaurant for denying your request, their hands are tied. Canadian beer: Americans may find Canadian beers strong in flavour; Europeans might prefer Canadian beers. The most popular Canadian beers are Molson Canadian and Labatt's Blue. Molson is the oldest brewery in North America, established in 1786 in Montreal. If interested in popular regional beers, try Moosehead (New Brunswick), Alexander Keith (Nova Scotia), Gahan House (Charlottetown, PEI), Unibroue (Quebec), Big Rock (Alberta) or Kokanee (British Columbia). There is also a burgeoning craft-brewing scene in Canada, particularly in British Columbia, Quebec and Ontario. This link shows a list of craft breweries in Canada. Canadian wines: Canada is famous for its ice wines, but there are many wine-growing regions in the country. In the west, the Okanagan valley of BC has many wineries, while in eastern Canada, it is the Niagara peninsula of Ontario that is best known for its wines. Better-quality Canadian wines have Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA) logo on the bottle. Popular food culture in Canada is worthy of note. Families will generally gravitate towards countless "road houses" that seem to serve the same burgers, chicken wings, and salads. Large American family restaurant chains such as International House of Pancakes or Bob Evans have not had much luck in Canada. Typically, American chains in Canada charge the same prices as in their U.S. restaurants, adjusted to Canadian dollars according to the exchange rate. Canadians seem to prefer less-publicized independents, or regional chains. An exception is roast chicken. Verging on national food status, Canadians have a love affair with the rotisserie roasted chicken. The mega chains of Swiss Chalet (ironic name) and St. Hubert can, between the two of them, be found from coast to coast. They offer fresh food and a very good opportunity to go mingle with locals. The Keg Steakhouse offers good quality fresh food in a casual atmosphere, but as a steakhouse, the Keg does not cater to families (although there is a children's menu). Joey's (formerly Joey's Only) specializes in seafood; most locations also offer rotisserie chicken and ribs. IHOP fans will find Smitty's a good source of pancakes and other comfort food, while Cora's offers fruit laden brunches. Within the fast food scene, in addition to the usual global chains, Harvey's is a "made in Canada" alternative. This Canadian style fast food burger is typically grilled and you get to choose your toppings as your hamburger is prepared for you at the counter. Quebec has a unique fast food culture of its own and offers fast food items that are not available elsewhere. Mr. Sub is a Canadian chain of submarine sandwich shops, somewhat analogous to Subway, which also is ubiquitous in Canada.. Tim Hortons is a national institution with coffee, baked goods, fresh sandwiches, and soups. Many offer 24 hour walk-in and drive-thru service. With over 2,500 outlets, "Timmies" is the largest fast food chain in Canada, surpassing the McDonald's hamburger empire both in earnings and number of stores. Restaurant hints & tips: Like the southern United States, Canadians apparently prefer their iced tea prepared sweetened. Before you order, make sure it's the way you want it. Also, most places charge for refills of tea and cola. For information on tipping in Canadian restaurants, see Inside Canada: Tipping and Etiquette. Haute cuisine: Like all Western nations, Canadian cities have many fine restaurants. More recently the major centers have begun gaining international reputations for their cuisine. Rob Feenie in Vancouver, and Susur Lee in Toronto are two examples of Canadian chefs gaining international attention and celebrity. Feenie and Lee have appeared on the popular TV series Iron Chef America twice. Trout Point Lodge in Nova Scotia has gained international renown for its seafood cookery and culinary classes. Uniquely Canadian foods If you ask a Canadian "What food is uniquely Canadian?" chances are, most will mention " poutine ", a 20th century concoction from Quebec that combines french fries with cheese curds and gravy. Most visitors find the concept disturbing but quickly grow to love it. Poutine is now readily available across the country in many fast food and casual restaurants. Tourtiere is a meat pie made with ground pork, ground veal, and/or ground beef and spices. It is part of French-Canadian food culture across the country and throughout the year, but is especially popular at Christmas and New Year's. Ideally, it is home made, but it can also be bought premade in grocery stores across the country. Donairs are a Canadianized version of the middle eastern doner kabab, found most often in Atlantic Canada and Alberta (brought by Maritimers who travel there to work). A donair is made of donair meat (spicy meatloaf cooked on a vertical spit, sliced off the spit for serving), placed on a pita bread and piled up with chopped onions, lettuce, and/or tomatoes. Donair sauce (a sweet creamy sauce) is dribbled on top before the pita is folded to make the whole thing into a wrap. Careful, it is very messy to eat! Note that, for food safety reasons, the donair meat must be heated up (fried, microwaved) after slicing, Fans of gyros may recognize the meat, but it is the garlicky sweet sauce that makes the difference. It is traditionally served in a steamed pita, which makes it potentially quite messy to eat. Atlantic Canadian pizza chains often make "donair pizza", another way to experience this uniquely Canadian meal. Thick pea soup, made from yellow or green split peas, is also an important French-Canadian contribution to food culture, and is a popular "comfort food" across the country. Pickerel fish (what Americans call "walleye"), smoked Winnipeg goldeye, whitefish, and of course wild salmon all have a special place in the hearts of many Canadians. Perogies (potato dumplings) were introduced into Western Canada by Ukrainian immigrants, and they are now quite popular; there's even a giant perogy statue in Alberta.Today, frozen perogies are available in grocery stores with mashed potato fillings in flavours ranging from cheese and onion, to pizza! Sugar pie and butter tarts are kissin' cousins to the pecan pie of the American South. Sugar pie is a traditional Quebec dish, best made with maple sugar or maple syrup, and sometimes with a top crust. Butter tarts are similar, but smaller; some Canadians like raisins or pecans in their butter tarts, while others consider that a proper butter tart is raisin-free. Saskatoons (aka saskatoon berries) are a small purplish-blue berry native to right across Canada and belonging to the genus Amelanchier; their common names are serviceberries or juneberries. They are popular filling for pies, and is also made into syrup and jam. The berry has a sort of almond-cherry flavour, despite its blueberry-like appearance. They are much easir to pick than blueberries - you don't have to bend over, and the berries are much larger. The city of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan is named after this fruit. Nanaimo bar 's origins are shrouded in mystery, but this small, sweet square is a very popular dessert. The traditional Nanaimo bar has three layers: a chocolate-flavoured crumb base; a butter-cream icing centre; and a thick layer of chocolate on top. In the last few years, different Nanaimo bar flavours have been created by changing the flavouring of the centre, base, or top to create Irish Cream Nainaimo bar, mint Nanaimo bar, etc. Pacific Salmon are known for their healthy Omega-3 fatty acids content. Chinook are the largest with the most flavourful and richest flesh, and higher fat content. Chum have a low fat content with a mild, delicate flavour. Coho are an excellent table food with firm, flavourful, red flesh and a moderate to high fat content. This fish is a First Nations food staple and is the symbol for a number of BC First Nations tribes. The Sockeye is the most expensive of all. It has deep red flesh and a high level of fat. Some ways that salmon can be eaten are baked, poached, smoked or candied - the latter is considered a real treat. Cooking can be as simple as baking with a simple lemon butter sprinkle. The Bloody Caesar (called "Canada's national cocktail" by some) was invented in Calgary, AB. It is made with a tomato-clam cocktail mix. Bibliography of Classic Canadian Cookbooks Armstrong, Julian. A Taste of Quebec , 2d ed. A walk through modern and traditional Quebecois cuisine, organized geographically. Benoit, Jehane. The Canadiana Cookbook: A Complete Heritage of Canadian Cooking. Now out of print, sadly, along with the rest of Mme Benoit's works. Canadian Home Economics Association. Laura Secord Canadian Cookbook. Old, but still a useful guide to long-time favorites from across the country. Cormier-Boudreau, Marielle; and Melvin Gallant. A Taste of Acadie. A culinary tour of traditional Acadian dishes. Staebler, Edna. Food That Really Schmecks . Canadian Mennonite cooking. Twenty years ago I had a chance to meet and interview author Stephen King, but to do it meant Id have to work a 15 hour day. I was tired so I turned down the chance and Ive regretted it ever since. Now when my boss calls and offers me a chance to meet someone that Im a fan of, I always say yes. I did it two years ago when Garth Brooks was in town and I gave up a scheduled day off to hang with friends in low places. And I did it again last week when actor Chaz Palminteri was in town to promote A Bronx Tale, which is coming to Proctors. Id been a fan of Palmenteri since seeing him play the cop who gets fooled in The Usual Suspects. As we sat in the small dining area of Villa Italia in Schenectady I told Chaz I thought the last scene in that movie, when his character realizes who Kevin Spacey really is, is one of the best moments in cinematic history. He laughed and said, You know John I get that comment all the time. People love that moment when the cop puts it all together but its too late. Once the camera started rolling I had to stop being a fan and ask him real questions about A Bronx Tale. The first being, how much of what we see in the movie is real and did all that stuff really happen? To my surprise he said yes. Its a true story. Its a real story. I saw a man get killed. That kid in the story, Calogero, thats me. Thats my real name. So what you see in the movie and on stage, that is my life. Those who have seen the movie know that after Calogero witnesses a murder in the street the cops show up and bring him down for a line-up right on the sidewalk. One by one they ask the child which thug pulled the trigger forcing him to look these tough guys directly in the eye. I asked Chaz if that really happened and he said, Yes and no. The cops did come up to my flat and told my parents they know I saw who shot the man and I had to come down to I.D. them. My father put his arm around me and said NO, hes not going anywhere. So they had me come to the window and one by one asked me who did it? And just like the child in the story, Palminteri didnt snitch. Palminteri wrote A Bronx Tale when he was a struggling actor in L.A. and he couldnt get work. He performed it as a one man play and critics took notice, as did actor Robert De Niro. I had one studio offer me a million dollars for the rights to my story and keep in mind I had two hundred bucks in the bank at the time, but I said no because they wanted to do the film without me. Then De Niro came backstage one night after a performance and shook my hand and said we should make the movie; hed play the father and Id play Sonny. The rest is Bronx history. Three things strike you right away when you meet Chaz Palminteri. Hes very tall, he looks great for his age, and he doesnt act like a star. He comes off as the neighborhood guy who just took the stool next to you at a corner bar and wants to watch the Giants game. I really liked him because I could tell it wasnt an act. He was also a good sport going back in the kitchen at Villa Italia to get a lesson in how to fill cannoli from chef Bobby Mallozzi. When one of his cannoli turn out perfect he looked like a five year old who just won a prize. Are you filming this? Send it to me, he said to anyone in the crowd recording the moment. Before our time was up I asked Chaz why he feels A Bronx Tale has become such a beloved film and story? I think its the message that the saddest thing in life is wasted talent. That one line connects with people and theres a part of them that identifies with this characters, be you young or old, black or white. Hes right. Just like the amazing Shawshank Redemption, his story A Bronx Tale is one that I will always stop to watch if Im flipping through the channels. Even though Ive seen it 10 times Ill tell myself Im just going to stay and watch one scene and, of course, Im in until the end. The musical A Bronx Tale will be at Proctors October 23 to 28. Chaz Palmenteri isnt playing the lead these days but he doesnt need to. He already lived it. John Gray is a news anchor on WXXA-Fox TV 23 and ABCS WTEN News Channel 10. His column is published every Wednesday. Email him at johngray@fox23news.com. - Sonko has been entangled in a debt crisis with Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) - Kenya Power is demanding over KSh 1 billion from City Hall but Sonko says the bill is exaggerated - Sonko said the power company was the one that owed Nairobi County KSh 347 million in way-leaves and rent - A crisis meeting was slated for Thursday at City Hall to settled the controversial debt Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko is set to convene a crisis meeting with Kenya Power bosses in an effort to end a recurrent tag of war between City Hall and the power distributor over unpaid bills. TUKO.co.ke understands Nairobi City County Government owes the power firm to a tune of KSh 1,132,465,298.18 in unsettled electricity bills. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens. READ ALSO: City Hall tows Kenya Power vehicles in ugly fight over KSh 732 million bill Sonko has been entangled in a debt crisis with Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC). Photo: Governor Sonko Source: Facebook READ ALSO: 2 West Africans, Kenyan arrested with KSh 1 billion fake money held for 15 days In a letter seen by TUKO.co.ke, Sonko invited Kenya Power Managing Director Jared Otieno for a meeting at City Hall on Thursday, October 4, to discuss on ways of settling the bill. The power utility firm in June 2018 disconnected electricity to City Hall for three days but the county government reached a deal to settle the debt which by then stood at at least KSh 950 million. READ ALSO: Generous Ruto carries KSh 5 million in big brown envelope to another Church harambee In the letter, Sonko, however, sought to clarify that KPLC owed his government KSh 816 million which were accrued from way-leave and sub-station rent. He added that KSh 30 million had been paid to Kenya Power.. "If we are just trading in, the balance would have been KSh 950 minus KSh 816 million which equals to KSh 134 million. So far, the county has paid you KSh 30 million leaving a balance of KSh 104 million," stated Sonko. He nonetheless pointed out that the power distributor still owed Nairobi county another way-leave amounting to KSh 415 million which the national government had pledged to settle. "If this is deducted from your bill, then Kenya Power Owes NCCG KSh 347 million," he added. Sonko's administration has, however, been on record stating the bills were heavily inflated. It also criticised KPLC for charging them national government bills adding that most of the debts were inherited from the defunct Nairobi City Council. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news. Shosh Cecilia Story Continues: Shosh Cecilia Gets New Teeth | Tuko TV. Source: Tuko.co.ke - Mary Njambi said her initial nomination as councillor in the defunct local administration came as a surprise to her - She disclosed she was nominated by late former Nairobi mayor Mwangi Wathika - Upon the move, she wondered why Wathika had bypassed all his rich and prominent friends and settled on her - Njambi recently hit the headlines during chaos at City Hall as MCA's stormed Speaker Elachi's office - In the melee, she claimed it was 'kirimino' (criminal) for the Speaker to pepper spray Ward Reps - She was summoned by the disciplinary committee and denied being part of the chaos The noisy and chaotic Nairobi nominated MCA Mary Njambi popularly known as 'kirimino' has admitted she was once nominated for a role she had no idea what her job description was. In an interview with Radio Jambo on Tuesday, October 2, the dramatic Njambi said she was once nominated in the defunct local government as a councilor, a role she was surprised to be given. The nomination was done by late ex-Nairobi mayor Mwangi D. Wathika. The role is currently equivalent to a Member of County Assembly. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens READ ALSO: Seneta wa Kajiado afurushwa nje ya Churchill Show kwa utovu wa nidhamu Mary Njambi during the chaos at City hall when MCAs demanded Speaker Elachi leaves her ofice. Photo: UGC Source: UGC READ ALSO: Photo emerge of Nairobi MCAs getting intoxicated before terrorising Speaker Beatrice Elachi "I received a call telling me I am a councillor. I asked what is the role of a nominated councillor, I was told don't worry you will learn once you are in the assembly. Before I even could ask more about roles of a councillor, I was told to attend swearing-in which was to take place the following Monday," said Njambi. Njambi is currently a nominated member of County Assembly. Asked what she could have done to help Kenyans with the punitive taxes in the Finance Act 2018, the clueless MCA said she could have saved the country had the bill been brought before Nairobi County Assembly. What she does not know is that Assemblies are not mandated to handle such laws. "That bill did not come to our county, had it come ultimately we could have defended Kenyans. You see the fuel tax was set at 16 % at first, then it went to 8%, I'm sure by the time it could have reached our county, we could have made it 4%," said a blonde Njambi. Njambi and her friends intoxicated themselves before they stormed Elachi's office. Photo: UGC Source: UGC READ ALSO: Kicks and blows at City Hall as Nairobi MCAs eject Speaker Beatrice Elachi out of office The mother of two hit the headlines during the chaos that were witnessed at City Hall as MCA's chased out embattled Speaker Beatrice Elachi. Njambi was leading the team of leaders who stormed Elachi's offices demanding she leaves as they had impeached her. On Thursday, September 27, the MCA was summoned before a disciplinary committee and firmly stated she was not involved in the chaos despite a video indicating her leading other county leaders to kick out the Speaker. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news Shosh Cecilia Story Continues: Shosh Cecilia Gets New Teeth | Tuko TV Source: Tuko.co.ke - Kabura filed the affidavit in 2015 where she claimed she was working for ex-CS Waiguru - She claimed Waiguru introduced her to senior NYS officials who would help in her in the tendering process - This was at the height of an inquest into loss of KSh about 700 million from National Youth Service under Waiguru's watch - EACC commenced investigations which established Kabura's account was a pure fabrication - Th ethics body recommended Kabura be charged with spreading falsehood - DPP Noordin Haji confirmed Kabura who was the prime suspect lied in the affidavit Director of Public Prosecution Noordin Haji has recommended fresh investigations into the key suspect in the National Youth Service (NYS) phase one in which KSh 761 million is believed to have been looted. Haji confirmed Josephine Kabura lied in an affidavit she filed in 2015 where the business woman alleged she was working at the behest of Anne Waiguru, the then the Devolution Cabinet Secretary. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens READ ALSO: Seneta wa Kajiado afurushwa nje ya Churchill Show kwa utovu wa nidhamu READ ALSO: Anne Waiguru led the NYS looting - suspect In the affidavit, Kabura had told the court Waiguru, her close associate, tried to cover up the looting by diverting attention from investigating bodies and implicating junior officers in her ministry. The hairdresser turned millionaire claimed the now Kirinyaga governor introduced her to a number of people who would facilitate the tendering process and payments for the goods supplied and services rendered by her companies to the NYS. More puzzling was how Kabura made bank withdrawals and stashed KSh 761 million in a bag to a construction site in Rongai without any security. READ ALSO: Waiguru demands EACC releases report of first NYS scandal "I would carry the money in one bag at a time to the site. A bag would fit between Sh10 million to Sh20 million. The suppliers at the quarry were working day and night and I had to have ready cash with me, she told Public Accounts Committee in 2015. Following these explosive claims, Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), commenced investigations which later established Kabura's account was a pure fabrication and bereft of truth. Even though the ethics body recommended prosecution of the woman for knowingly misleading contrary to EACC Act, a copy of the report seen by TUKO.co.ke on Tuesday, October 2, showed the DPP returned the file for further probe before preferring charges. The now Kirinyaga governor welcomed the move to have Kabura investigated further through a twitter statement. I agree with the Office of Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) that there should be further investigations. If both Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have established Kabura was lying who then was she working for? Waiguru posted on Twitter. She further insisted investigators should unearth who Kabura was working for and where she took the money she claimed to have carried in bags. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: TUKO TV Shosh Cecilia Story Continues: Shosh Cecilia Gets New Teeth | Tuko TV Source: Tuko.co.ke - The politician assured DP Ruto he should not be threatened by Joho's attacks - Moha was engaged in court battle with Joho's brother who challenged his election as Nyali MP - The MP won the seat after beating Abu Joho who he repeatedly refers to as a drug peddler - Moha is a strong critic of Joho's leadership in Mombasa County and his family's grip of the county - Some Kenyans have expressed disappointment with Moha's recent dalliance with DP Ruto Former investigative journalist and Nyali MP Mohammed Ali alias Moha Jicho Pevu has come to the defence of Deputy President William Ruto over attacks by his political competitors. The outspoken veteran journalist, without naming names, asked Ruto to stay calm in face of attacks from "clueless" politicians like governor Hassan Joho. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens READ ALSO: Seneta wa Kajiado afurushwa nje ya Churchill Show kwa utovu wa nidhamu Mohammed Ali tells Ruto to keep calm, he should not be threatened by Joho. Photo: UGC Source: Facebook READ ALSO: Hairdresser Josephine Kaburas explosive affidavit against Anne Waiguru in NYS scandal was false - DPP "I want to assure you (William Ruto) do not be shaken by those from Mombasa county who smoke bhang and start attacking others. Even a lioness is aggressive but it still gets impregnated," said Moha. Speaking of his experience in the Mombasa politics, the veteran journalist said he went through the same threats while vying as an MP and managed to beat his "rich and foolish" competitors. "The war of a poor man against a rich man is very difficult but becomes easy when fighting against brainless but rich opponents," he added. READ ALSO: It will take DP Ruto 50 years to achieve what Raila has achieved - ODM leaders The MP has been criticising the leadership of Mombasa county accusing Joho of failing to achieve development. Moha's election as MP was upheld by the Court of Appeal in July 26, 2018, in a case that was filed by a close ally of his competitor and the governor's brother Abu Joho. READ ALSO: Joho launches more attacks on DP Ruto Moha has been criticising the leadership of Governor Hassan Joho over underdevelopment in Mombasa County. Photo: UGC Source: UGC READ ALSO: Generous Ruto carries KSh 5 million in big brown envelope to another church harambee There has been a war of words between the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders and DP Ruto in the last few days after the latter accused Raila Odinga of planning to chase him out of Jubilee. Joho responded, telling Ruto to stop comparing himself with Raila and from calling him a conman Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news Shosh Cecilia Story Continues: Shosh Cecilia Gets New Teeth | Tuko TV Source: Tuko.co.ke - The NASA co-principal said it was time he gave a shot at the presidency come 2022 - Kalonzo noted he was done with being a running mate in every election - He also maintained he was never for the mock swearing-in of Raila Odinga on January 30, 2018 - Kalonzo argued Raila was aware he was not going to take the oath - According to the Wiper party boss, there were people who were misleading Raila on the swearing-in The Wiper party leader, Kalonzo Musyoka, on Tuesday, October 2, confirmed he will be joining the list of people to challenge Deputy President William Ruto in running for the presidential seat. The former vice president said he had participated as a running mate for far too long and it was time he aimed for State House come 2022. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens READ ALSO: Wakenya wachambua picha ya Moha Jicho Pevu akiwa na Ruto; hakupiga magoti kanisani The NASA co-principal also maintained he was not for January 30, 2018 mock swearing-in of Raila Odinga. Source: Facebook READ ALSO: Ex-journalist Moha Jicho Pevu fiercely defends Ruto against Hassan Joho attacks Kalonzo was speaking during an interview with Citizen TV where he spoke on his 2022 ambitions and also noted there would be re-alignments by the time Kenyans go to the ballot again. I cant be a professional running mate, the time to give it a real shot is now," he said. The National Super Alliance (NASA) co-principal also maintained he was not for January 30, 2018 mock swearing-in of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga as the People's President. READ ALSO: Nandi youth take to streets to protest attacks on Deputy President William Ruto The NASA co-principal also maintained he was not for January 30, 2018 mock swearing-in of Raila Odinga. Source: Facebook Kalonzo maintained Raila was aware of his decision not to be sworn-in and that he was to take the oath alone without the other co-principals. "Raila and I knew that he was going to take that oath alone, between Raila and myself, he knew I was not going to take that oath," claimed the ex-VP. He claimed he had considered what the international community would think of them and stood by that which was in the best interest of the nation READ ALSO: Slain Sharon Otieno's family needs KSh 1 million to feed mourners, sets burial date "We were going to be regarded as pariahs by the international community, it is terrible when I reflect about it. I have always stood for honest politics . I am guided by what is reasonable and that which is in the best interest of the nation," said Kalonzo In initial reports by TUKO.co.ke, the Wiper leader had said he skipped the swearing-in after his security detail was withdrawn by the government. He said the policemen who comprised his security detail at his Karen and Tseikuru homes as well as the ones who accompany him, would have been sacked had they taken him to the swearing-in event. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: TUKO TV Shosh Cecilia Story Continues: Shosh Cecilia Gets New Teeth | Tuko TV Source: Tuko.co.ke - The story quoted President Edgar Lungu reiterating the country's commitment to work with China - Government spokesperson said the move was aimed at tapping into the Chinese market through advertisements - The move angered Zambians who decried Chinese dominance and displacement of locals from jobs - There have been allegations Zambia had borrowed so much from China and risked losing key State property used as collateral for the loans China's dominance in Zambia has been an issue of concern, with the country's Opposition figure Stephen Katuka decrying the Asian state's citizens are displacing locals from jobs through huge monetary offers. True to this statement, on Tuesday, October 2, the county's state-owned newspaper published the lead story in Mandarin, a move which angered the citizens. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens READ ALSO: Wakenya wachambua picha ya Moha Jicho Pevu akiwa na Ruto; hakupiga magoti kanisani Zambia's State-owned newspaper The Times of Zambia published its lead story in Chinese language. The story quoted President Edgar Lungu saying their ties and China would be tightened. Photo: UGC Source: UGC READ ALSO: Wife of Zambian taxi driver who worked for a Chinese man gives birth to Asian-looking baby (photos) Mandarin is the common language spoke in China. A copy of the publication seen by TUKO.co.ke ignited outrage from Zambians and citizens from other African states who termed the recent Chinese invasion in the continent as fresh colonisation. In a perfect coincidence, the lead story quoted President Edgar Lungu saying the country's ties with China were not about to end. This was despite cries by the Opposition that the country had obtained huge loans which could make the China take over State-owned properties used as collateral if Zambia is unable to repay the debts. "We will not look East or West but we'll go with those who want to go with us," Lungu was quoted in the article published in Mandarin. Zambia's Chief Government Spokesperson Dora Siliya defended the decision to publish some of the articles in the national paper in Chinese and English. "It is a move aimed at tapping into the Chinese market," she said even as enraged citizens argued the State should have instead used Gujarati if they needed numbers because the country had more Indians. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news. Untold Stories: Priscillah Wangare Quit Accounting for Makeup - On Tuko TV Source: Tuko - Two other suspicious envelopes were addressed to senior security bosses - They were intercepted at a screen facility by Pentagon Force Protection Agency - Two people have since been hospitalised after they were exposed to them - The FBI intensified investigations to find source and motive of the envelopes The US security agencies on Monday, October 1, intercepted a suspicious envelope addressed to President Donald Trump. According to the authorities, two other letters addressed to senior security bosses were also intercepted at a mail screening facility. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens. READ ALSO: Wakenya wachambua picha ya Moha Jicho Pevu akiwa na Ruto; hakupiga magoti kanisani Two other suspicious envelopes were addressed to senior security bosses. Photo: UGC Source: UGC READ ALSO: Another Climax Sacco bus caught on camera being driven recklessly days after one killed 12 In a statement, US Secret Service, however, indicated the envelope believed to be containing poisonous substance did not enter the White House. "The Secret Service can confirm receipt of a suspicious envelope addressed to the president on Monday, October 1. The envelope was not received at the White House, nor did it ever enter the White House. As a matter of practice, the Secret Service does not comment regarding matters of Protective Intelligence. " However, in this instance, we can confirm that we are working jointly with our law enforcement partners to fully investigate this matter. Further, all threats directed towards the president, or any Secret Service protectee, are treated seriously and fully investigated," the statement read. READ ALSO: Outrage as Zambia state-owned newspaper publishes in Chinese One of the envelopes was addressed to Defense Secretary James Mattis and was sent to the FBI for analysis. The other envelope was addressed to Chief of Naval Operations John Richardson. A statement by Houston Fire Department on Tuesday, October 2, however, indicated two people who came in to contact with the suspicious substance were hospitalised. The building where the two were working in has since been quarantined as detectives further investigations in to the development. The chemical substance is suspected to be ricin which if consumed, results in nausea, vomiting and internal bleeding of the stomach and intestines, followed by failure of the liver, spleen and kidneys, and death by collapse of the circulatory system. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news. Migori Residents Demand The Release of Okoth Obado | Tuko TV. Source: Tuko Kenya - The government is rolling out 37 state-of-the-art CT Scan units in hospitals across the country - The facilities at Thika, Voi, Bomet and Kakamega Level Five hospitals are already in use -The ultra-modern technology has attracted medics from across Africa on bench marking tours -Until recently, many patients had to travel long distances as such services were only available in Nairobi and abroad Sometime last week, a delegation of 30 medical experts from across Africa made a grand entry into Thika level Five Hospital. One would have been forgiven to think the team - drawn from 10 countries including South Africa, Ethiopia, Ghana, Cote dIvoire, Uganda, Tanzania, Somalia and Zimbabwe - was there for some delicate medical surgery. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens. READ ALSO: US authorities intercept envelope addressed to President Donald Trump containing deadly poison The team was drawn from 10 countries including South Africa, Ethiopia, Ghana, Cote dIvoire, Uganda, Tanzania, Somalia and Zimbabwe. Photo: TUKO.co.ke Source: Original READ ALSO: Raila lied he tried calling Kalonzo moments before famous handshake - Moses Wetangula Far from it though, the medical experts were on a bench-marking tour of the hospitals modern computed tomography (CT) Scan facility that has been operational for the last two months, and served over 600 patients. By the time they were leaving, they were all in agreement that the ultra-modern facility is a transformational success in medical care in Africa. READ ALSO: US First Lady Melania Trump touches down on shithole Africa ahead of Kenya visit The unit is the first of 37 similar state-of-the-art facilities being rolled out across the country under the national Government Managed Equipment Service (MES) project. The second such facility was unveiled at the Voi Level Five Hospital on last Monday October 1, 2018, with those in Bomet, Kakamega and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret also installed and ready for use. DP William Ruto said the Jubilee Government is speeding up the installation of equipment in hospitals to fulfill its promise of improved healthcare for all. Photo: DP Ruto Source: Facebook The scan in Thika has so far been serving 10 to 30 patients daily, offering a great relief to the local community. In this era of rising cases of cancer and road accidents, this machine has greatly transformed our operations and helped the local population reduce expenses on medical care because our services are 50% cheaper than in private hospitals, Dr Jackline Njoroge, the deputy medical superintendent at the hospital, explained to the visiting medics. READ ALSO: "Kwaheri"- Joey Muthengi aaga mtangazaji mwenzake wa Citizen TV George Odongo of Neusoft Medical Systems Ltd, who led the visiting team, revealed that the machine can operate for up to 20 years without being replaced or repaired. The Thika CT scan so far stands out as the best of its kind in the country in terms of efficiency. It gives very clear images and analyses data in a record time of three to five minutes, Odongo stated. The scan in Thika has so far been serving 10 to 30 patients daily, offering a great relief to the local community. Photo: TUKO.co.ke Source: Original READ ALSO: Kenyan MP conned KSh 76 million in fake witchcraft Kenyan MP conned KSh 76 million in fake witchcraft The MES programme rolled out in 2015, covers radiology infrastructure modernisation in 94 county health facilities and four national referral hospitals. The project will also see selected public hospitals equipped with dialysis machines to allow them offer services that have only been available in a few facilities in Nairobi. While unveiling the facility at the Voi Hospital this week, Deputy President William Ruto said the Jubilee government was speeding up the installation of equipment in hospitals to fulfill its promise of improved healthcare for all. Until recently, many patients had to travel long distances as such services were only available in Nairobi and abroad. Photo: TUKO.co.ke Source: Original When we formed the government, we made a decision to improve the healthcare of Kenyans by reducing the distance they travel to seek critical diagnostic services. That is why we promised to install CT scan machines and other equipment in at least 37 public hospitals countrywide, he said, adding that delivery of quality healthcare was a key component of the Jubilee manifesto. In Taveta, the facility will come in handy for patients who have over the years been forced to cross over to Tanzania for radiography services. Among them is Philistia Shali, a peasant farmer whose meager resources have been strained by such long journeys. It has been hell travelling outside but now I am optimistic the agony of many patients like me will end, stated Shali, who is among the first patients to benefit from free trial services of the CT scan machine at the Voi hospital. The project will also see selected public hospitals equipped with dialysis machines to allow them offer services that have only been available in a few facilities in Nairobi. Ohoto: TUKO.co.ke Source: Original READ ALSO: Sharon Otieno's mother denies she begged Governor Okoth Obado for financial help The unit will also come in handy for accident victims along the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, who are mostly rushed to Voi hospital. In installing the units, the government placed prioritised hospitals located along major highways with a view to enhancing fast and accurate diagnostics on victims of emergency cases such as road accidents. Fredrick Katimbo, the hospitals senior radiographer said the CT scan has significantly enhanced diagnosis in the two weeks it has been operational. This has reduced the number of referrals by more than half. Definitely, this will enable better patient management he stated. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news. Why Kenyans Love Avocados | Tuko TV. Source: Tuko.co.ke In the Kyle Rittenhouse case, legal nuance clashes with ideology. Since its inception, the case has served as a sort of national Rorschach test, with some seeing in the teenager a patriot who used his Second Amendment right to defend himself and others viewing him as a gun-wielding white boy who believed he could act with impunity. - Uganda's external and internal debt combined was five times lower compared to Kenya's - The country may borrow more to finance development agenda owing to stagnant tax revenue - Tanzania's debt was about half that of Kenya which staggered at KSh 5.1 trillion - Kenya's total public debt is expected to rise by KSh 2 trillion in the next four years - Tanzania's debt is also expected to grow as government continues to borrow to finance infrastructure projects Uganda's external and internal debt has crossed KSh 1 trillion as President Yoweri Museveni's administration struggles to raise funds for the national development plans owing to stagnated domestic revenue. This was disclosed in the National Assembly on Tuesday, October 2, by the State Minster for Planning, David Bahati. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens READ ALSO: Kenya among African countries to struggle repaying debt - World Bank Uhuru (L) is looking for funds for the Big Four. In Uganda, Museveni is struggling with stagnated domestic revenue. Magufuli to continue borrowing would be to finance mega infrastructure projects. Source: UGC READ ALSO: "Kwaheri"- Joey Muthengi aaga mtangazaji mwenzake wa Citizen TV While presenting the country's indebtedness status report, Bahari said a good percentage of the loans was owed to multilateral creditors like World Bank, African Development Bank, and the Islamic Development Bank. "Bilateral creditors including Japan, France and others account for 31.1%. Commercial banks contributed 0.7% of the total external debt portfolio by the end of June 2018," he said even as he assured the country there was nothing to worry about. READ ALSO: Cost of living to go up following introduction of 8% VAT on petroleum products - CBK report Although Uganda and Kenya's financial predicaments appeared to be the same, with both countries struggling with huge budget deficits, Museveni's appetite for borrowing is nothing compared to that of his Kenyan counterpart, President Uhuru Kenyatta. Kenya's public debt was five times that of Uganda and about half that of Tanzania, which owed its creditors some KSh 2.5 trillion as at September 2018. READ ALSO: 5 painful ways the increase in fuel prices will affect every Kenyan The country's debt has risen steadily from KSh 1.8 trillion in June 2013 when the Jubilee government came to power to over KSh 5.1 trillion going by the National Treasury reports. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news. Raila Odinga - Kenya's Fuel Crisis Will Not Occur - On Tuko TV Source: Tuko - Thirdway Alliance Kenya party leader and ex-presidential candidate Ekuru Aukot begun collecting signatures in bid to change current Kenya's Constitution - He sought to use the popular initiative approach to change the supreme law of the land which requires minimum one million signatures from voters - Aukot announced he had surpassed the 500,000 halfway mark - After achieving one million signatures Aukot will need to draft Bill to Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission for assessment and approval - IEBC would then present Bill to County Assemblies and then two Houses of Parliament after ward representatives approve it - The Bill would then be presented to the president for assenting or to the public for referendum through voting if it touches core aspects of the Constitution A referendum to change the Constitution of Kenya is looming after ex-presidential candidate Ekuru Aukot's search for one million signatures surpassed the 500,000 mark on Wednesday, October 3. Aukot is pushing for a popular initiative amendment of the Constitution dubbed Punguza Mizigo (reduce burden) in his bid to reduce number of MPs from 416 to 194 thus cut Parliament's annual budget by at least KSh 30 billion. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens READ ALSO: Thirdway Alliance boss Ekuru Aukot, lawyer Ahmednasir in war of words and TUKO.co.ke knows why READ ALSO: "Kwaheri"- Joey Muthengi aaga mtangazaji mwenzake wa Citizen TV In his tweet seen by TUKO.co.ke on Wednesday, October 3, Aukot reported he had garnered 514,000 signatures and was optimistic he would get to the one million mark and fulfill the first condition for amending the Constitution through popular initiative. After getting the one million signatures, he will be required to draft a Bill to be presented to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) for assessment before being channeled to county assemblies and two Houses of Parliament for debate. If the legislative Houses pass the Bill, it will be presented to the president for assenting approval and adoption in line with Article 257 of the Constitution. However, Article 255 of the Constitution requires the Bill to be first subjected to voters in a referendum if it touches on the Constitution's supremacy, Kenya's territory, sovereignty of the people, national values, Bill of rights, term of office of president and Parliament's functions "So far so good. At least a voter is endorsing it per minute. Kindly join other Kenyans in endorsing the noble initiative," said Aukot. Thirdway Alliance Party leader Ekuru Aukot collecting signatures for his popular initiative amendment of the Constitution quest. Photo: Thirdway Allaince/Twitter. Source: UGC READ ALSO: Slain Sharon Otieno's family needs KSh 1 million to feed mourners, sets burial date His petition also sought to have Kenya's 47 counties to be used as constituencies where one MP and one senator would be elected. Among other issues Aukot's initiative is seeking is to elevate Senate to be an upper house with veto powers and have wards to be used as units of development replacing Constituency Development Funds' programmes. This means if his proposal is successful, it would be subjected to a referendum by voters since it touches on functions of MPs. A section of politicians from across Jubilee and National Super Alliance also stated the country needed a referendum to change the Constitution before the 2022 General Election citing a need for creation of other political positions and abolishing of others. A Constitution can also be amended through a Parliamentary initiative where a Bill pushing for changes of the supreme law is drafted and debated in the National Assembly and Senate. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news Shosh Cecilia Story Continues: Shosh Cecilia Gets New Teeth | Tuko TV Source: Tuko.co.ke Kenyans were super happy when former Citizen TV's new anchor Kanze Dena was appointed by President Uhuru Kenyatta as the new Deputy State House Spokesperson and Deputy Head of the Presidential Strategic Communication Unit (PSCU) in July 2018. It was even a merrier moment for the former TV girl, her family, friends and fans when she was promoted to the Secretary, Communication and State House Spokesperson about two weeks later. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens READ ALSO: Kanze Dena gets promotion barely a month after State House appointment READ ALSO: Mbunge wa Jubilee adaiwa kumpiga mkewe baada ya kumkashifu kwa kumuambukiza ugonjwa wa zinaa To many, the well-behaved journalist rightly deserved the position and most of them even took to social media to congratulate her and thanked God for the blessing on her behalf. Well, it would have been a big sin on Kanze's side if she would have let time pass without thanking God and sharing the blessing with people close to her heart. READ ALSO: Ex-Auntie Boss actress Shiro lands new job at local TV barely days after exiting show However, having being raised in a Christian family, Kanze thought it wise to thank God for her State House appointment in the best way possible. TUKO.co.ke learnt she recently held a mother of all thanksgiving parties to thank her maker for everything he has done in her life. The party was held at an unidentified Nairobi hotel and was graced by Kanze's family, friends and fans. READ ALSO: All the men believed to have been in a relationship with TV girl Jackie Maribe Judging with photos from the thanksgiving party seen by TUKO.co.ke, it is clear it was not a small fete. The former TV girl even went for the services of a popular Mombasa based musician Job Chilibasi who produced an entire thanksgiving song dubbed Anang'alang'ala Kanze(Kanze Shines) for her. Have anything to add to this article or suggestions? Share with us on news@tuko.co.ke Shosh Cecilia Story Continues: Shosh Cecilia Gets New Teeth | Tuko TV Source: Tuko.co.ke - Jackline Auma is a Ugandan national but was hired to offer services for the young family in Kisumu - Auma is facing murder charges after allegedly killing her employer and her son - The bodies of the two victims were found in their house by neighbours - Auma claimed she does not understand Kiswahili and wanted to be addressed in her native Luganda There was drama at Kisumu High Court on Wednesday, October 3, when a househelp accused of brutally murdering her employer and her three month-old baby in Muhoroni claimed she does not understand Kiswahili. Jackline Auma, a Ugandan national, threw the court into a spin when she insisted that the murder charges be read to her in Luganda. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens READ ALSO: "Kwaheri"- Joey Muthengi aaga mtangazaji mwenzake wa Citizen TV Jackline Auma who allegedly killed her employer and her baby. Photo: Victor Okombo. Source: Facebook READ ALSO: Slain Sharon Otieno's family needs KSh 1 million to feed mourners, sets burial date An infuriated Justice Fred Ochieng could hear none of it and warned that if she insisted on having a Ugandan interpreter, he would throw her in the cells to teach her a lesson. The judge was infuriated by the claims because the maid had been working in Kenya for over three months and had in an earlier appearance before the same court followed proceedings in Swahili. Please advise your client on the consequences of spending the courts time in such mind games, he told her lawyer, Joy Ayieta. Auma was presented in court to take plea in the murder of Elizabeth Achieng and her son Benedict Okoth on June 6, 2018, at Shauriako in Muhoroni, Kisumu County. READ ALSO: Police capture Kisumu killer househelp who stabbed mother and son to death This was after a psychiatric evaluation confirmed that she was mentally fit to stand trial in which she is the only suspect. When the gravity of the judges seriousness fell on her, she denied the charges but was denied bond or bail. Justice Ochieng ordered that she be remanded in jail until the case is heard on Tuesday, November 6, since she was a flight risk. She had escaped to Uganda soon after the incident. Slain Elizabeth Achieng. She was killed together with her son. Photo: Irene Otieno. Source: Facebook READ ALSO: Arrest of Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu shocked Uhuru - Kalonzo Musyoka The househelp is said to have stabbed Achieng severally and strangled her baby. Bodies of the two were found in the house by neighbors after attempts by the deceased's husband and her workmates to reach her were futile. Neighbours who heard a commotion and those who found the maid inside the house on the day the bodies were discovered are among witnesses lined up against her. Story by Fred Okul, Kisumu County. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news Shosh Cecilia Story Continues: Shosh Cecilia Gets New Teeth | Tuko TV Source: Tuko.co.ke - The governor has been winning hearts with his hard work and humility - Countless Kenyans even begged him to vie for the presidency in 2022 - Kivutha clearly raised Kenyans' hope for better leadership in the country judging with everything he has been doing in Makueni county Makueni County governor Kivutha Kibwana has always been close to the hearts of Makueni residents and Kenyans thanks to his humility. Kivutha has more than once proved he does not roll like fellow politicians by operating like a ''common mwananchi'' as he goes about his responsibilities in Makueni county. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens READ ALSO: "Kwaheri"- Joey Muthengi aaga mtangazaji mwenzake wa Citizen TV Kivutha has proved countless times he is a humble leader. Photo: TUKO.co.ke Source: Original READ ALSO: Hawkers surprise Makueni Governor Kibwana with a gift on his birthday Kivutha at one time moved countless hearts after a photo of him carrying a baby on his back emerged online. He shared the photo as the world marked the Day of the African Child. That was not the only photo of him that moved millions of Kenyans, TUKO.co.ke can authoritatively confirm. The governor has been pictured severally mixing and socialising freely with Kenyans as he hits the grassroots performing his gubernatorial duties. He has not only been seen riding in public means of transport like bodabodas but also hanging out with village women and mulling over pertinent development issues. READ ALSO: Makueni county continues to wow Kenyans with yet another first of its kind healthcare plan It should be noted Kivutha has also been winning hearts online with his hard work apart from humility. He has initiated a number of projects in his county including a milk and mango processing factory, a unique health care plan and a host of others. Following his humility, Kenyans have been begging him to vie for the presidency in 2022. READ ALSO: Too good to go sir: Kenyans dismiss Makueni Governor's plans to retire from public service Kivutha has clearly raised Kenyans' hope for better leadership in the country judging with everything he has been doing. It is for that particular reason that countless Kenyans have been pleading with the soft spoken grassroots operator to vie for the presidency in 2022. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news. Migori Residents Demand The Release of Okoth Obado - On Tuko TV Source: Tuko - The county boss had called for a consultative meeting with the MCAs for budget making - MCAs walked out on the county boss after realising their demands had not been met - They say the executive had been frustrating development in the border county There was drama in Kisumu on Wednesday, October 3, when Busia MCAs walked out on Governor Sospeter Ojaamong over sharp division in the countys budget. The 53 elected and nominated MCAs staged a walkout after Ojaamong refused to factor their demand for KSh 25 million for Ward development into the countys supplementary budget. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens READ ALSO: "Kwaheri"- Joey Muthengi aaga mtangazaji mwenzake wa Citizen TV Busia Governor Sospeter Ojaamong during a past event. MCAs embarrass him while on retreat in Kisumu by walking out on him. Source: UGC They disrupted the meeting held at Tom Mboya Labour College, accusing the governor and his cabinet of stifling development. The Assembly Majority Leader Laban Wanjala led the protests after failing to agree with the Executive over the budget they claimed they were interacting with for the first time. They demanded to know where development funds go, saying allocations had failed to translate into tangible development on the ground. The Ward leaders further claimed the supplementary budgets for the previous two Financial Years had disappeared as the county sank deeper into debt. READ ALSO: Holiday makers, lovers to pay more for lodgings, hotel rooms in Kakamega county The county debt has ballooned in a very short span. Last month we were duped into believing that it was just KSh 200 million but we have learnt that is nearly KSh 3 billion. Reports of the first quarter of the last fiscal year show that KSh 700 million was brought in by the Treasury but projects were not allocated any money, said Wanjala. They also want the allocations disbursed early so that they can implement projects earmarked in their respective wards. Chairman of the assembly committee chairs Lawrence Murunga also raised concern over implementation of projects listed for financing under the supplementary budget. READ ALSO: The weird Bukusu tradition of bringing dead persons spirit back home "We are concerned about the distribution of devolution support programme grants. The county received over KSh 500 million. We are aware that there are conditions of how the funds should be used. We are hearing that the funds have been added to ongoing projects contrary to the conditions of the funds," said Murunga. They were also concerned over county and ward bursaries that had not been sent to schools. READ ALSO: Governor Obado admitted to KNH Private Wing after falling sick in prison "We have not received any bursaries for 2016/2017 but applications have been ongoing. Many students whose applications were approved are unable to collect their certificates because they have not cleared fees, he said. But Ojaamong' denied the accusations, saying the MCAs had been misadvised. He said he had called the MCAs to engage them in preparing the supplementary budget but someone leaked to them that the ward development fund had been scraped off, which is not the case. Story by Fred Okul, Correspondent. Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news Kenya News Today: Why Kenyans Love Avocados | Tuko TV Source: Tuko.co.ke Despite warnings to the contrary, doctors in Trinidad and Tobago have been prescribing Iverm Today he owns Steve Bureshs Cheesecake Store and Sandwich Shop with locations in Plainfield since 2014 and Oswego since spring 2018 the same towns where he introduced his desserts through the farmers markets. Those same Mason jars, sold in two sizes, keep the cheesecake cold. The cheesecake contains only a few ingredients (cream cheese, sugar, eggs and vanilla) and are available in more than 20 flavors. The most popular are salted caramel, turtle, vanilla bean and chocolate chip. Gluten-free and sugar-free cheesecakes are also available, and the sugar-free version is sweetened naturally with monk fruit. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Forty persons in military-style outfits crossed the uncontrolled section of Ukraine's border with Russia at Russian checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk from September 25 to October 2, according to a weekly report by the OSCE Observer Mission published on the organization's website. "During the reporting period, the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs [border crossing points] increased to 40 (compared to 26 last week); 12 of them crossed into the Russian Federation, and twenty-eight into Ukraine (93 per cent of this category's crossings occurred at the Donetsk BCP)," reads the report. Persons in military-style uniforms continued to cross the border individually or in groups. It was more difficult for the observer teams to observe the movement of individuals using private vehicles, buses or minivans across the border, especially since some of the private vehicles have tinted windows, and buses and minivans have drawn curtains. During the reporting period, the observer teams observed a slight increase in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (409 compared to 391 observed during the previous week). Compared to the previous week, the number of cargo minivans decreased from 191 to 156 vehicles During the reporting period, 903 trucks passed through the Gukovo and Donetsk checkpoints (880 trucks in the previous week), and 493 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation. The number of tanker trucks decreased to 60. The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains running on the railway tracks located approximately 150 meters south-west of the Gukovo BCP. During the reporting week, the OTs heard trains on 17 occasions, compared to 24 last week. The OTs assessed that nine trains were travelling to Russia and the rest to Ukraine. The OSCE Observer Mission at the Gukovo and Donetsk border checkpoints is currently operating with 22 permanent international staff members. op U.S. Ambassador to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison has reiterated the call for Hungary to stop interfering with the alliance's cooperation with Ukraine. She said this during a telephonic briefing in Brussels, while commenting on problems in relations between Budapest and Kyiv due to the new Ukrainian law on education, according to the Voice of America. We continue to urge Hungary not to use bilateral disagreements contrary to NATO's commitment to cooperate with Ukraine, the ambassador said. U.S. representatives also stressed earlier that Budapest should not abuse its position as a member of the North Atlantic Alliance to resolve disputes with other countries. Hutchison said that it is important for Ukraine, as a country suffering from Russian aggression on its borders, that it receive the assistance in every possible way to deter Russian aggression. The ambassador also expressed hope that Hungary would separately settle its disagreements with Ukraine on the law on education and then join the U.S. in NATO to help Ukraine preserve its sovereign territory and stabilize its democracy. Ukraine's new law on education came into force on September 28, 2017. Its clause regarding the state language of education has been criticized in some circles in Ukraine and abroad, in particular in Hungary. Transitional clauses of the law provide for a gradual increase in the number of subjects taught in the Ukrainian language. Budapest regards this as a violation of the rights of the Hungarian minority. Kyiv rejects these allegations. op Ukraine and Moldova will continue to make efforts for the liberation of Donbas and Transnistria from Russia's presence both in bilateral relations and on international platforms. "We discussed a wide range of issues, focusing on the common challenges of protecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty and, I am sure of this, a common European future. Both countries suffer from Russian aggression and Russian presence. We are making consistent efforts on all the international platforms for sake of the liberation of Donbas and Transnistria from Russia's presence. We agreed to continue to cooperate and support each other," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin said at the briefing following the talks with his Moldovan counterpart Tudor Ulianovschi, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. Klimkin thanked his colleague for the continued participation of Moldova in the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in Donbas and for assistance in the treatment of Ukrainian military personnel. The parties also discussed the issues of economic cooperation, cooperation within the framework of international organizations, regional security, the prospects of the Transnistrian conflict settlement and coordination of actions on the path of European integration. ol The European Union supports the proposal by Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko to extend the law on a special procedure for self-governance in Donbas and hopes the Verkhovna Rada will approve a respective bill. Head of the EU Delegation to Ukraine Hugues Mingarelli said this in a comment to Ukrinform during the EU Network Forum in Kyiv on Wednesday. We fully support this initiative by President Poroshenko and hope that the Verkhovna Rada will vote for the extension of the special status for Donbas. We have stated since the very beginning that it is important to us that this law be extended after October 10. We believe that everything should be done to ensure the conditions for the further implementation of the Minsk agreements, Mingarelli said. On October 3, the Ukrainian president registered in the Verkhovna Rada a draft law introducing amendments to Article 1 of the law of Ukraine on the special procedure for local self-governance in some areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, which proposes extending until December 31, 2019 inclusive the special order of local self-governance in the occupied Donbas. According to the current legislation, such a special local government order is in effect until October 10, 2018. The president says in the explanatory note that the adoption of the law is triggered by the need to provide conditions for the continuation of the peaceful settlement of the situation in the occupied Donbas, to preserve and, if necessary, to strengthen the international sanctions regime, which was introduced in order to restore the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. In addition, the explanatory note states that the adoption of the law should contribute to creating the necessary conditions for the deployment of a UN-mandated multinational peacekeeping operation in the occupied part of Donbas. The approval by the Verkhovna Rada of the bill is important to keep in place the EU sanctions against Russia. op The Information Policy Ministry of Ukraine has congratulated UA|TV, the International Broadcasting Multimedia Platform of Ukraine, on the occasion of three years of broadcasting. The greeting text has been posted on the ministrys website. Three years ago, our international broadcasting channel was launched. Over the time, much has been done -- we've got an effective team, self-produced TV programmes in five languages, and weve started broadcasting to the occupied territories. And what is important, UA|TV has truly become a source of credible and up-to-the-minute information about Ukraine for foreigners. Dear colleagues, we are proud of you and stand to win together, the ministry cited Information Policy Minister Yuriy Stets as saying. UA|TV was launched on October 1, 2015. It operates under the Law of Ukraine On the international broadcasting system of Ukraine developed by the Information Policy Ministry. The document was adopted by the Verkhovna Rada on December 8, 2018 and signed by the President on December 28. The channel broadcasts news and programs of its own production via satellite and cable networks in five languages - Ukrainian, English, Russian, Arabic and Crimean Tatar. Ukrainian communities of Argentina and Peru joined the international action Light a candle of remembrance dedicated to the 85th anniversary of the Holodomor of 1932-33 in Ukraine. As the press service of the Embassy of Ukraine in Argentina reports, the action took place near the commemorative plaque to the Holodomor victims at the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral. The first "candle of remembrance" was lit by elderly woman Hanna Sakhar, who witnessed the tragic events in Ukraine being a child. "We must not only remember about the genocide of our people for the sake of history but also to convey the truth about this crime to the whole world so that no authoritarian regime could ever repeat it," said Ambassador of Ukraine to Argentina Yurii Diudin. At the same time, as the press service of the Embassy of Ukraine in Peru reports, the corresponding action took place at the embassy's premises. The staff of the embassy, members of their families and representatives of the Ukrainian community honored the memory of the Holodomor victims by observing a minute's silence and lit the candles of remembrance. Ambassador of Ukraine to Peru Ihor Tumasov reminded of the scale and consequences of the Holodomor- genocide of the Ukrainian people of 1932-1933, organized by the Soviet regime. On September 1, 85 days before the Holodomor remembrance day, Ukraine and the world began to honor the victims who died during the genocide of 1932-1933. Photo courtesy of argentina.mfa.gov.ua, peru.mfa.gov.ua ol Klimkin thanked the Verkhovna Rada for the statement on the situation in the PACE, but noted that was not enough. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin has said the Council of Europe is on the verge of ensuring the return of Russians to PACE without Russia's fulfilling the requirements of the resolutions adopted in response to the aggression against Ukraine. "Over the past four years, there has been not a single reason to say that Russia decided to stop the aggression. The international pressure on the Russian Federation at least remains unchanged due to this fact, while in a number of areas it increases," he wrote on Facebook. Read alsoUkraine's parliament condemns preparation of decision to help Russians return to PACE "And only in one place we have a real risk of reducing this pressure in the near future this is the Council of Europe. The outpost of European values and principles is on the verge of granting an indulgence to Russia and fulfilling its absurd demand, i.e. to ensure Russia's return to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe without fulfilling the requirements of the resolutions of this authoritative body adopted in response to the Russian aggression against Ukraine," Klimkin said. "Moreover, we see attempts at a perverted interpretation of the PACE decisions regarding the Russian aggressor. Certain forces quite seriously insist and artificially bring the legal basis toward the fact that the Assembly exceeded its authority by applying sanctions against Russia in 2014-2015. I have one question for them: since when did the Council of Europe begin to be guided by the phrase 'give me a position and I will find an international lawyer who will justify it?'" he said. Klimkin thanked the Verkhovna Rada for the statement on the situation in the PACE, but noted that was not enough. "Let's make the most of contacts with other parliamentarians to convince everyone. Not 'to talk', not 'to exchange arguments', but to get through and convince. At the same time, I urge you to work very closely with our diplomats. In the end, parliamentary diplomacy is the realm of parliamentarians, and they own the 'first violin' here," Klimkin said. According to him, "it is important to speak not only with those who support Ukraine, but also with those who lobby for completely different, not always pleasant positions for us." Now everyones attention is focused on the identity of one of Skripals poisoners, an employee of the Russian GRU, Boshirov-Chepiga. According to an investigation by journalists of Novaya Gazeta, the man is a Colonel of Russia's military intelligence. Moreover, the information published suggests that Boshirov-Chepiga actually received the title Hero of Russia from the Russian president (under a classified decree). It is reported that he was awarded for his involvement in the events in Ukraine in 2014. The Information Resistance OSINT group believes however that it is much more interesting to talk about the versions that are now being spun in the information space. We have to proceed from the fact that the FSB has leaked information about who is the so-called Ruslan Boshirov. The security service leaked the passport data of Boshirov-Chepiga from the Federal Migration Service. This was done, of course, with aim to inflict a reputational and financial blow on the GRU and the Ministry of Defense as a whole. At the same time, the GRU is now attempting to conceal the real role of the structure and Anatoly Chepiga in particular in the events in Ukraine in 2014. According to Radio Liberty, the name of Chepiga is really stamped on granite slabs near the monument to Rokossovskiy at the premises of the Far Eastern Military Command School of the Ministry of Defense (Blagoveshchensk). Moreover, the website of the DOSAAF branch in the Amur Region reports that the title of Hero of Russia was awarded to Anatoly Chepiga in December 2014 for fulfilling the peacekeeping mission. Its not hard to understand that it's about the events in Ukraine. But then the extremely non-random reflections of various investigators started to emerge. The Novaya Gazeta website published an interview with three of Chepiga's colleagues from the 282nd Special Forces Detachment. And one of them (a person who wished to remain anonymous) said that the Skripals poisoner received the title of a hero for a successful operation in Crimea. Read alsoRFE/RL: Photo at Russian military academy adds to evidence about Skripal poisoning suspect Chepiga got the title of Hero of Russia for Crimea. The names of the graduates who received the title of a hero are carved on the stele near the monument to Rokossovskiy in the Military Command School. The names of Chepiga and Colonel Alexander Popov are there. They got the title of Hero of Russia under a single classified presidential decree, specifically for Crimea. Popov commanded a special detachment then, and Chepiga was a lieutenant colonel at that time. I cant even imagine what exactly Chepiga was doing in Crimea, his colleague says. Further he made some suggestions: an operation to seize the building of the Council of Ministers of Crimea; the seizure of the Belbek airfield, and the disarmament of the marine infantry brigade of the Ukrainian Army in Feodosia. It looks like Chepiga is a real Russian military intelligence officer, but he did not participate in bloody covert operations on the territory of Ukraine. As Novaya Gazeta says, all three of the above mentioned actions saw no bloodshed. But then another piece of information appears, obtained by the former investigative journalist of the Investigation Management Center, Sergey Kanev: Chepiga received a hero title for transporting Yanukovych to Russia. Chepiga-Boshirov participated in the evacuation of Yanukovych to Russia. At least this is indicated by my sources. He and his Special Forces detachment arrived at Mezhyhirya, the residence of Yanukovych. He was there, he guarded Yanukovych. From there, they transported him to Crimea and after that to Russia, the journalist said. And again we see that the journalist, as in the case with the investigators of the Novaya Gazeta, refers to some sources whose names he does not wish to disclose. Again, it is about an operation to evacuate the former president, a peaceful act (without bloodshed). There is the impression that someone (suppose its the GRU), realizing that its impossible to hide Chepigas past and that is impossible to evade the fact of the latters participation in the events in Ukraine in 2014, came to a single conclusion: to show that Chepiga is a man who was not engaged in the murder of Ukrainians. And what about Skripal? He didnt die either. This is the logic. And this has already been granted concession from the Kremlin in the form of a speech by the press secretary of the Russian president, Dmitry Peskov. After all, he said: I dont have information that a person with this name was awarded, adding to this that the Kremlin no longer has a desire to discuss the so-called Boshirov and Petrov case. Read alsoAvakov: One of Salisbury poisoning suspects identified as participant in Yanukovych's escape However, this is unlikely to stop the FSB and another agency, the Foreign Intelligence Service of the Russian Federation. The head of the latter, Sergey Naryshkin, clearly indicated that Skripal was poisoned unprofessionally. It is a tentative signal to the GRU, which shows that the story with Chepiga will not be hushed down so easily. Indeed, for some reason, many people forget now that in addition to the annexation of Crimea by Russia and the escape of Yanukovych, there was another bloody act in Kyiv, including the shooting of protesters on Maidan. Why doesn't anyone talk about it? Perhaps, Boshirov participated in this mission, too. After all, in Crimea, the Russians already had enough power to capture all the above-mentioned facilities. Yanukovych was taken out by his guards, who also didnt really need Anatoly Chepiga. But he could have committed crimes at the Maidan. That's because initially, Russian leadership considered two scenarios for the development of events on the Maidan: one was developed by the GRU and another by the FSB. That is why we saw two high representatives of these structures in Kyiv before the shooting at the Maidan. There are two competitors who are now fighting for control over Donbas: Surkov and Beseda. It is worth noting that Moscow guests who came at that time to help stabilize the situation did exactly the opposite. But, in addition to that official group, there were other groups in Ukraine illegal groups, both of the FSB and the GRU, which, under various covers from journalists, such as Kotz and Steshin, acted on opposite sides of the barricades. That is why there is a fairly high likelihood that Chepiga participated in this mission - the shooting at the Maidan. And this means a completely different crime and another charge. Moreover, such fact, if proven, could serve as a much more weighty argument proving that Russia from the beginning stood behind a series of crimes in Ukraine that ended in hostilities in Donbas, where the GRU and the FSB clashed again. The same opinion is shared by the former head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine, Lieutenant General Alexander Skipalsky. The detachment of the GRU colonel Anatoly Boshirov (Chepiga) could be in Kyiv during the Revolution of Dignity, and take an active part in the escalation of events at the Maidan. He stated this in an exclusive comment to Guildhall edition. Read alsoUkraine prosecutors unable to confirm GRU operative "Boshirov" helped Yanukovych flee Theoretically, the detachment of Boshirov-Chepiga could be in Kyiv then (December 2013 - February 2014) and take part in the escalation and executions of people. Practically I cannot confirm it, because I did not take part in the research and study of documents. I know that on the base of the Alpha (a special unit of the SBU) more than 20 representatives of Russian Special Forces lived in a separate building, and no employees of the Ukrainian special services had access to that location. They could change attire to that of Berkut and uniforms without any insignia," Skipalsky said. But that's not all. The most interesting thing is what happened to Petrov, the second poisoner of Mr Skripal. After all, nothing is now heard about him. There are only two options: either he has been liquidated or Russia decided to focus on a more valuable employee Chepiga. And this is the essence of the Russian state: it does not protect performers of orders, it substitutes them. In addition, some representatives of Russian foreign intelligence service, such as the head of the International Anti-Bandera Movement, Dmitry Yermolaev, are already beginning to promote the version that some radical forces in Russia (implying the GRU) are plotting a coup in the Russia. And there is nothing surprising, because an anonymous source of the Investigation Management Center in the Russian military intelligence told about this earlier in a previous investigation about the war between the GRU and the FSB: "The leadership of the country is constantly whispered in the ear: "The GRU is preparing a military coup. At the same time, the entire responsibility for Syria and the fight against terrorism lies with us. It turns out that instead of successfully solving combat missions, we are fighting off the FSB. Klimkin said in civilized countries, including Ukraine, diplomats are not expelled by force. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin has said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine on Thursday, October 4, will send a note to Hungary on the expulsion of a Hungarian Consul in Berehove from Ukraine. Speaking at a joint press conference with Moldovan Foreign Minister Tudor Ulianovschi in Kyiv, Klimkin said that in civilized countries, including Ukraine, diplomats are not expelled by force, an UNIAN correspondent reports. Read alsoKlimkin proposes to discuss dual citizenship in Ukraine "We are civilized and polite people, although tough and consistent at the same time... Of course, he will leave the country himself, but everything is very simple, I have already said. I suggested that [Hungarian Foreign Minister] Peter Szijjarto recall him. He has such a diplomatic week," Klimkin said. "If this does not happen, and I understand that this will not happen because of the Hungarian position, tomorrow we will send a note to the Hungarian side that he should leave his work in Ukraine and, accordingly, Ukraine," the minister said. But there are some local budget changes too. The amendment includes a $250,000 addition for the work at Mastodon Lake, which is coming from a 2017 bond issue. The bulk of the money for work at Mastodon Lake, which is currently underway, came from an Open Space and Land Acquisition and Development grant from the state. "Russians are actually trying to create a sea blockade of Ukrainian ports along the Azov coast," Turchynov stressed. Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Oleksandr Turchynov says Ukraine is boosting its military presence in the Sea of Azov and will respond adequately to any aggression. "We are now strengthening our potential and our military presence in the Sea of Azov to resist Russian provocations in this region. These tasks are solved with the support of Ukrainian patriots," he said at a briefing in Kharkiv. Turchynov stressed "Russians are actually trying to create a sea blockade of Ukrainian ports along the Azov coast. These are provocative actions, systemic provocation of the Russian side." Read alsoReuters: Ukraine needs Azov Sea base to counter new Russian threat, military chief says He recalled the National Security and Defense Council had decided to build up Ukraine's military potential in the Azov and Black Seas. "This decision is already underway. We already have a ship-boat grouping in the Sea of Azov and, of course, we will strengthen our positions. We will try to respond adequately to any aggression," Turchynov said. As earlier reported, Russian border guards in the second half of April began stopping and inspecting foreign vessels navigating to/from Ukrainian ports. The State Border Service notes that Ukraine has been a hostage to the situation since 2004, namely, under the Agreement on Cooperation between Ukraine and the Russian Federation in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait, which defines the Azov Sea as a sea of internal use by the two states. Thus, both Russian and Ukrainian border guards are entitled to inspect vessels, which, in their opinion, cause suspicion. Turchynov stated that the military and political leadership of the Russian Federation regards the Azov-Black Sea region as an important springboard for further expansion. According to the official, this constitutes a serious threat for Ukraine. Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Oleksandr Turchynov says Russia is deploying new military units on the border with Ukraine, which can be used for active hostilities. "We are seeing not only the deployment of troops in the occupied territory of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, we are also seeing what's happening along the Ukrainian border active efforts to deploy additional military units," he said at a briefing in Kharkiv. Read alsoUkraine boosts military presence in Azov Sea: Turchynov threatens with response to any aggression According to Turchynov, the number of these additional units is comparable to those that were deployed in 2014, when the Russian Federation Council decided to send Russian troops in Ukraine. "Therefore, this is a serious threat. The new units they are deploying along our border are not only to play muscle, since it is too expensive for them. They can be used for active hostilities. And we must understand this and be ready," he said. Ukraine's Foreign Ministry on October 4 plans to send Hungary a note informing that the Hungarian consul in Berehove must leave Ukraine. Hungary will immediately retaliate if Ukraine expels the Hungarian consul from the town of Berehove, Ukraine's Zakarpattia region, over the issue of Hungarian passports to Ukrainian citizens. "If the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine or someone in Kyiv decides that our consul should be expelled, then I will immediately expel the consul of Ukraine from Hungary. Immediately," Hungary's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto said at a press conference with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow on October 3, Ukraine's news outlet European Pravda said. Read alsoUnited States calls on Hungary not to oppose NATO-Ukraine Commission Szijjarto insists that the Hungarian consul in Berehove did not violate either Hungarian, or Ukrainian, or international laws, so Hungary has no reason to recall its consul. Ukraine's Foreign Ministry on October 4 plans to send Hungary a note informing that the Hungarian consul in Berehove must leave Ukraine. Budapest will also be invited to hold consultations related to the violation by Hungary of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations when issuing Hungarian passports to Ukrainian citizens and attempting to conceal this fact. According to intelligence reports, three enemy troops were killed and another three were wounded. Russia's hybrid military forces mounted 34 attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas in the past 24 hours, with one Ukrainian soldier reported as killed in action (KIA) and another two as wounded in action (WIA). "One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another two were wounded in the past day. According to intelligence reports, three occupiers were killed and another three were wounded," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation (JFO) said in an update on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on October 3, 2018. Read alsoRussian occupation forces in Donbas employ lasers to blind Ukrainian border guards Russian occupation forces opened aimed fire from grenade launchers of various systems, heavy machine guns and small arms to attack the defenders of the towns of Avdiyivka and Krasnohorivka, and the villages of Stanytsia Luhanska, Krymske, Novotoshkivske, Orikhove, Katerynivka, Novozvanivka, Luhanske, Verkhniotoretske, Novotroyitske, Bohdanivka, Starohnativka, Chermalyk, Pavlopil, Hnutove, Vodiane, Lebedynske, and Shyrokyne. The enemy also resorted to 120mm and 82mm mortars twice to shell the Ukrainian positions near Orikhove, while the defenders of Krymske were attacked with the use of 82mm mortars. In addition, the Ukrainian fortified positions near Novotoshkivske, Luhanske, Starohnativka and Lebedynske came under mortar fire. Moreover, the Ukrainian positions in Luhanske and Hnutove came under fire from weapons of infantry fighting vehicles. "Since Wednesday midnight, Russian-led forces have mounted two attacks on the Ukrainian positions. One of the Ukrainian fortified positions near Krymske was attacked with the use of 120mm mortars, while the defenders of Vodiane came under fire from heavy machine guns and small arms. There have been no casualties among Ukrainian troops since the start of the day," reads the report. The crime scene remains blocked for visiting by international OSCE SMM monitors. Ukraine's Representative in the humanitarian subgroup of the Trilateral Contact Group for the Donbas settlement, First Deputy Chair of the Verkhovna Rada Iryna Gerashchenko has revealed the Kremlin's marasmic version regarding the death of children near the Russian occupied town of Horlivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine. Read alsoOSCE monitors: 23 children injured or killed in Donbas in 2018 alone "During negotiations, the Ukrainian side raised the issue of the death of Ukrainian children, demanding to allow Ukrainian law enforcement officers and the OSCE representatives to the explosion site," she wrote on Facebook. "The Russians and their puppets predictably refused, the crime scene remains blocked for visiting by international OSCE SMM monitors," she said. Gerashchenko said the Russians not only hide the crime scene, but also "fall into a frank marasmus in their statements." "Boris Gryzlov, a Russian representative to the Trilateral Contact Group for Donbas settlement in Minsk, said the children had been blown up... on an American landmine... The cynicism of the Russians' behavior just runs high," she said. As UNIAN reported earlier, three teenagers were killed and another one was wounded in a landmine blast near the Russian occupied town of Horlivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine on September 30, 2018. The Russian Federation plans to conduct military exercises in the occupied territories of Ukraine. The command of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation is secretly boosting the training of the occupation forces in Donbas to conduct offensive operations, speaker of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine Dmitry Hutsuliak told a Kyiv briefing Wednesday. According to the information of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, the command of the RF Armed Forces secretly increases the training of the occupying troops to conduct offensive operations. In particular, against a single operational background and according to a single plan with bilateral operational-strategic command and staff exercises of the troops of the Southern Military District in the occupied territories, a command-staff training of the formations and units 1 and 2 of the Army Corps of the Russian Armed Forces was planned, "said Hutsuliak. Read alsoGerashchenko reveals Kremlin's marasmic version regarding death of children near Horlivka He also said that in the areas of advanced positions, individual units of the occupation forces' 1st and 2nd Army Groupings worked out elements of the transition to an offensive. During a practice session of one of the motorized rifle divisions on advancing to the front line, there was yet another case of the so-called friendly fire, which resulted in the death of two Russian servicemen. In addition, during the training of the mortar unit of the invaders, their own forward strong point was shelled and a soldier was killed. The command of the Russian occupational forces traditionally takes active measures to conceal information about these cases," said the Ukrainian defense official. As UNIAN reported, another serviceman of the Russian-led forces, Denis Bykov, was killed in Donbas on September 30. According to the Ukrainian intelligence, a militant company commander was among those killed in the hit. Volunteers of the Povernys Zhyvym [Come Back Alive] project have posted on social networks the video showing the strike hitting the militants' truck with ammo. The video was shot ahead of the announcement of another ceasefire in Donbas. Read alsoRussian command secretly boosting offensive training of Donbas occupation forces MoD Ukraine "Our reconnaissance officers managed to spot a truck that regularly delivered the Kremlin's deadly 'humanitarian aid.' As a result, the 'package' was hit, two vehicles and several terrorists were destroyed," the volunteers said. According to the Ukrainian intelligence, a militant company commander was among those killed in the hit. Passport information and other data compiled by Bellingcat, however, revealed that the two suspects had links to Russian military intelligence, known as the GRU. A photograph on display at a Russian military academy is adding to the growing evidence identifying a Russian military intelligence officer who was allegedly involved in the poisoning of a former double agent in England. The photo, highlighted in an October 2 report published jointly by RFE/RL's Russian Service and the open-source investigative website Bellingcat, builds on other recent reports that have used data from passport registries, online photographs, and military records to focus on a Russian man identified by British authorities as Ruslan Boshirov. Read alsoAvakov: One of Salisbury poisoning suspects identified as participant in Yanukovych's escape British authorities say that Boshirov and another man identified as Aleksandr Petrov were behind the March poisoning of Russian double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter, Yulia, in the English town of Salisbury in March. The photo was taken by a visitor to the Far Eastern Higher Combined Arms Command School last June, when Chepiga ("Boshirov") was not yet so "famous," Russia's The Insider wrote. RFE/RL adds that back in 2011 and in July 2014, there was no photo of Chepiga on the command school's Heroes of Russia board but it is seen in the pictures taken in 2016. The Skripals survived the poisoning, which used a Soviet-made military nerve agent known as Novichok. Days after being publicly identified, the two Russians went on state-controlled TV channel RT and claimed they were merely tourists. The Kremlin has strenuously denied any involvement in the poisoning, which prompted London, Washington, and other Western allies to expel dozens of Russian diplomats. Passport information and other data compiled by Bellingcat, however, revealed that the two suspects had links to Russian military intelligence, known as the GRU. Later research pinpointed Boshirov's alleged true identity as Anatoly Chepiga, who graduated from the Far Eastern Military Academy and received a medal the Hero of the Russia Federation in 2014, and holds the rank of colonel in the GRU. Several people from Chepiga's hometown also corroborated his identity to Russian and Western media, and confirmed he had been awarded a medal. Using social-media postings, RFE/RL's Russian Service, along with Bellingcat, discovered a wall of photos at the military academy honoring famous graduates. One of the photos, posted between July 2014 and March 2016, is identified as Chepiga. The photo shows a man resembling the man identified as Boshirov on the RT interview. Bellingcat also obtained a higher-resolution version of the Chepiga photograph on the wall, showing a close resemblance to the man who was interviewed on RT. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has asserted that the allegations about Chepiga and the other man are part of an "information campaign" aimed at Russia. In June, two other British citizens were also exposed to the nerve agent, apparently by accident; one of them, Dawn Sturgess, died. NATO noted a significant increase in Russia's military presence in the Black Sea, mainly due to the build-up of its forces in the occupied Crimea. A relevant statement was made by the Secretary-General of the Alliance, Jens Stoltenberg. For Russia, the occupation of Crimea was an important element in strengthening its presence in the Black Sea region, which was needed not only to create a permanent threat to Ukraine, but also to spread its capacity beyond the borders of the Black Sea (the so-called "project power"). Without Crimea, there would be no Syria campaign and an increase in Russia's presence in the Mediterranean: the Crimean peninsula is an important logistic point in terms of amassing forces and means. Crimea is also important for Russia from the point of view of the military technology introduced by the Russians the creation of a barrier to access and maneuver. The air defense systems (S-300 and S-400), located across a large area, from Kaliningrad to Crimea, create "bubbles" of threat. So, the means Russia now placed in Crimea allow hindering NATO's capacities to deploy in the Black Sea. Russia managed to focus NATO on the Baltics where the Alliance has now strengthened its presence. Certain processes are still ongoing. First of all, I mean the strengthening of NATO's presence in the three Baltic countries as well as in Poland. But at the same time, while the Alliance was preparing strategies for countering Russia in the Baltic region, it was too slow to react to the Black Sea issue. For Russia, the occupation of Crimea was an important element in strengthening its presence in the Black Sea region, which was needed not only to create a permanent threat to Ukraine but also to extend its capacity beyond the borders of the Black Sea What might be actual NATO steps to strengthen presence in the Black Sea? It's hard to say now. As we're seeing, Trump criticizes NATO Allies for not spending enough money on defense, while scarce funds they allocate, are not entirely spent for the purchase of new equipment, modernization of the armed forces, that is, the most important thing is to strengthen combat capability. This is especially true for the Black Sea countries, which cannot boast of economic power and are not able to spend the necessary amount of defense funds. Perhaps the good idea is the cooperation of the NATO Allies and the countries that they have not yet become member states, namely, Ukraine and Georgia. Unfortunately, Ukraine was not voiced as a potential Ally, but there is an objective explanation. If we recall the latest NATO summit, the final documents on Georgia stated that this country would become a member state; it has made significant progress in modernizing its armed forces, bringing its troops and the state as a whole to NATO standards. As for Ukraine, only our desire to join NATO has been noted, but no progress is being made, and neither are there any guarantees that we will become a NATO Ally. This is an objective assessment of the processes taking place in both countries, and an indicator of how quickly the military is modernizing. Of course, this is sad because Ukraine alone cannot oppose Russia. We are seeing how pompous is the coverage of the receipt of the two Island type vessels it took four years to get them. But in reality, it does not radically change the picture, because, in fact, there is no major Navy fleet in Ukraine. We have only some remnants of our fleet left. Even if Ukraine managed to pull out its Black Sea Fleet from Crimea, it would still be unable to counter the more modern Russian Navy. The only way out for Ukraine is to cooperate with Georgia, Romania, and Moldova. Thanks to our previous helmsmen, Moldova became a maritime state. There is a complicated situation there, but nevertheless, it is worth working with. Romania is our most trusted partner. Turkey is a good partner altogether, but there are some nuances, because it has a specific position: it has to remain friends with Putin, given his destructive role in Syria. Russia's economic conditions and military presence make Erdogan more friendly in communicating with Putin. But that does not mean that Erdogan is unreliable for NATO. He will try to balance, so as not to be a menace for Putin and at the same time not to be dropped out of NATO. Therefore, we are somewhat limited in what we can ask or expect from Turkey. This applies both to Ukraine, to Washington, and to the European Union. So Turkey is a rather complicated partner in the Black Sea. The only way out for Ukraine is to co-operate with Georgia, Romania, and Moldova Or perhaps the Black Sea could become the springboard for a new arms race, when NATO will strengthen its bases in the Black Sea region, and Russia will accordingly increase its prowess? In fact, I do hope that there emerges an arms race in the Black Sea, because it would mean that Russia would spend even more resources from its ever too modest budget. Unfortunately, global oil prices have grown a bit, which means that Russia will be able to earn a little more money, and, accordingly, it will have more opportunities for maneuver. But on the other hand, Russia has many other problems: the reduction of social spending, the "pension reform," and the impossibility for Moscow to fulfill its commitments to Crimea. The more deeply Russia is drawn into this arms race, the deeper it will drawn into Syria and Ukraine, the fewer resources it will have left, and the closer it will come to a crisis when the Russian Federation begins to either collapse, or, as the Soviet Union, to rapidly limit its presence and change its aggressive course. NATO is not a centralized organization but it consists of countries that spend their own money on defense within the Alliance. And, of course, the limited capabilities of the Allies in the Black Sea region will have an impact on the situation. Therefore, there is no resource for NATO's serious strengthening in the Black Sea. The funds are being spent in the northern direction, in the Baltic countries. So, most likely, there will be no real strengthening of positions in the Black Sea. However, Ukraine needs to initiate various projects: we must not only build vessels at our factories - this is not enough to enhance the defense capability. We also need to consider the possibility of attracting foreign investment in our shipbuilding industry, purchase vessels in other countries, in particular, in the U.S., as well employ other types of financial instruments that can enable us in the short term to strengthen our fleet. This is necessary in order not to allow Russians doing what they do in the Sea of Azov and the blockade spreading to our Black Sea ports, otherwise there will be the collapse of our foreign trade. Ukraine needs to be more pro-active. There is no resource for NATO's serious strengthening in the Black Sea. The funds are being spent in the northern direction, in the Baltic countries. So, most likely, there will be no real strengthening of positions in the Black Sea Ukraine needd to strengthen its own positions and militarize. The thing is that we already have an imbalance of forces with Russia. That's if we compare what the Russians have in the occupied Crimea, in the occupied part of the Moldavian territory, Transnistria, and the occupied part of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, newly created military bases along the border with Ukraine in Russia... In fact, we are squeezed by Russian military presence from three directions. Therefore, the militarization of Ukraine is a must. This is the only thing that can stop Russia and prevent its advance. Oleksandr Khara is an expert on foreign and security policy at the "Maidan of Foreign Affairs" Foundation The legislation will gradually raise the retirement age for women from 55 to 60 and for men from 60 to 65. Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law an unpopular bill raising the retirement age by five years, the Kremlin said. The October 3 announcement came hours after the upper chamber of Russia's parliament passed the legislation, with 149 members of the Federation Council voting in favor. Five voted against and three abstained, Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty said. In late September the lower chamber, the State Duma, passed the pension-reform bill after approving Putin's proposal to limit the increase for women to five years instead of the eight years the legislation initially called for. Read alsoHundreds arrested as Russians protest pension reform - media The legislation will gradually raise the retirement age for women from 55 to 60 and for men from 60 to 65. The bill was introduced a month after Putin was sworn in for his fourth presidential term, which may be his last because the constitution bars him from running again in 2024. Experts have warned for years that a combination of factors including life expectancy, the labor force, and long-term budget forecasts require immediate changes to Russia's pension system. But Putin and his government had held off on seeking changes during his previous terms in office. In June, Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev announced that the government was submitting legislation that would increase the retirement age. The plan swiftly led to protests and dented Putin's approval rating despite several weeks of efforts to distance himself from the idea. Putin finally weighed in with a televised address to the nation on August 29, proposing that the retirement age for women be raised to 60 rather than 63. Acknowledging the joint efforts thus far in the process, the city of Aurora remains hopeful for a positive outcome, Irvin said in a statement. Aurora is home to multiple school districts and private/parochial schools, and what happens at one will have an impact on the entire community. NATO allies restated their full support for Georgia's sovereignty. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg says that Black Sea security is among NATO's priorities. "We are also concerned by Russia's military build-up in the Black Sea region. Black Sea security is a priority for NATO and for Georgia. We are working together here more closely than ever before," he said at a press conference in Brussels after a meeting of the NATO-Georgia Commission in NATO defense ministers' session. Read alsoStrengthening of Russia's military presence in the Black Sea: What will be NATO's response He said NATO helps with training for Georgian Coast Guard boarding teams, provides more cooperation between Georgian and NATO naval forces and delivers cooperation between Georgia's Joint Maritime Operations Centre and the NATO's Maritime Command. "Today, Allies also restated their full support for Georgia's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity. We call on Russia to end its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. And to withdraw its forces from these regions of Georgia," he said. Austria will provide 1 million euros (over $1.1 million) in financial assistance for people suffering from the conflict in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donbas, Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said on Wednesday. VIENNA (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Austria will provide 1 million Euros (over $1.1 million) in financial assistance for people suffering from the conflict in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donbas, Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said on Wednesday. "We have decided to support people in the east of Ukraine by providing 1 million euros from the foreign catastrophes fund. By doing this we will help the Red Cross, which is conducting mine clearance, and Austrian non-government organizations, which are working there to alleviate sufferings of people and improve their living conditions," the chancellor told reporters after a cabinet meeting. In 2014, the Ukrainian army started an offensive against Donbas residents who refused to recognize the newly-formed government. The conflict between the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and Luhansk People's Republic (LPR) on one side, and Kiev forces on the other has claimed over 10,000 lives, according to UN figures, and is still ongoing. Efforts to stabilize the situation in eastern Ukraine have been made by the Normandy Four group. It in particular brokered the Minsk peace accords, which were signed by the sides to the conflict in a bid to end hostilities. However, the warring parties have failed to observe the ceasefire, so the unrest in Donbas continues. (@rukhshanmir) Belarus and Egypt intend to raise the bilateral trade volume past $100 million this year MINSK, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :Belarus and Egypt intend to raise the bilateral trade volume past $100 million this year. Ambassador of Belarus to Egypt Sergei Rachkov made the statement in an interview with Daily news Egypt, BelTA has learned. According to the source, Belarus-Egypt trade rose by 68.5% to $97.5 million in 2017 in the wake of the Belarus president's visit to Egypt. In January-July 2018 the trade turnover totaled $73 million, 49.3% up from the same period of last year. We hope to go beyond $100 million this year, noted Sergei Rachkov. Belarusian exports to Egypt are tractors, trucks, tires, metal products, optical products, pumps, x-ray equipment, petrochemical and woodworking products. The main imports from Egypt are citrus fruits, fresh, frozen, and tinned vegetables and fruits, herbs used in perfumery and pharmaceutics, medications, tea, coffee, outerwear, and textiles. Consumer-grade electric heaters, electric stoves, lighting equipment, plastic goods, paints and varnishes, and furniture have been recently added to the choice of imports from Egypt. Poland has increased gas supplies from Russia by 7 percent year-on-year in January-August this year, the Polish PGNiG oil and gas company said Wednesday. WARSAW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Poland has increased gas supplies from Russia by 7 percent year-on-year in January-August this year, the Polish PGNiG oil and gas company said Wednesday. "The Company informs that between January-August 2018, LNG accounted for nearly 20 percent of imports, while natural gas from Russia accounted for CA. 74 percent of imports. Compared to a similar period in 2017, between January-August 2018 imports of LNG have risen by nearly 64 percent, while imports of natural gas from Russia have increased by ca. 7 percent," the company said in a statement. PGNiG noted that the volatility in annual and quarterly volumes of gas imports from Russia were not the result of any changes in the long-term import contract signed in 1996. "Such volumes must always exceed minimal volumes imposed by Gazprom under take-or-pay clause, but they have always been smaller than maximal annual volumes agreed years ago in the long-term contract expiring in 2022," it explained. The company noted that in addition to gas production in Poland, which covers approximately 25 percent of Poland's own needs, PGNiG increases gas imports from the growing number of countries, including from Qatar, the United States and Norway. Gas consumption in Poland increased to 17 billion cubic meters (600 billion cubic feet) in 2017 from 15 billion cubic meters in 2015, the company recalled. "These numbers represent the most dynamic increase in the history of the Polish market, and account for one of the biggest increases in Europe," PGNiG said. At the same time, PGNiG continues efforts aimed at diversifying the sources and routes of gas supplies to Poland and is now preparing to start deliveries of gas produced on the Norwegian continental shelf to the Polish market. These gas deliveries via the proposed Baltic Pipe are expected to start in 2022. "Furthermore, under multi-year contracts which are currently being prepared, beginning from 2022 PGNiG will have an annual portfolio of over 4 million tons of LNG coming from the USA (ca. 5.5 bcm following regasification)," the company said. The contract with Russia, signed in 1996, envisages deliveries of 10 billion cubic meters of gas to Poland annually. The deal is valid until 2022. In 2012, the prices were reduced by 10 percent, but in 2015, PGNiG filed a complaint with the Stockholm arbitration court demanding new reduction of prices from Gazprom in line with the European gas market trends at that time. Leon wrote a paper called A Truly National Lab where he said it was time to pool our resources and it was his idea to have this accelerator lab which led to Fermilab, Turner said. Once he moved here, Lederman was devoted to Illinois and he convinced (former governor) Jim Thompson that we needed a math and science academy and he worked tirelessly on that. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Romania and the World Trade Organization (WTO) will organize, during the first semester of next year, a conference on entrepreneurship in Geneva. Bucharest, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :Romania and the World Trade Organization (WTO) will organize, during the first semester of next year, a conference on entrepreneurship in Geneva. The decision was taken by mutual agreement, during a scheduled meeting on Wednesday, in Geneva, between Stefan-Radu Oprea, the Minister for business Environment, Trade and Entrepreneurship and Roberto Carvalho de Azevedo, the Director-Genera of the WTO. The event will take place under the aegis of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which will be ensured by Romania during the first semester of next year, according to a press release of the Ministry of Business Environment, Trade and Entrepreneurship (MMACA). According to the quoted source, Azevedo voiced his appreciation for Romania's policies of supporting the kick-off in entrepreneuship, especially the Start-Up Nation Program. Thus, the topics of the international conference will be the kick-off in entrepreneurship, e-commerce and advanced technologies for SME's. 'Romania's Presidency of the Council of the European Union will work closely with the WTO's Secretariat in the modernization process of the multilateral commercial system's architecture. The preparation for the 12th Ministerial Conference of WTO, which will take place during the period of 8-11 June 2020, in Astana, Kazakhstan, will represent one of the priorities of Romania's Presidency of the EU Council,' the Romanian minister pointed out. Another important component on the agenda of discussions was the modernisation of the organization in the context of a complex and unpredictable climate at the level of the international commercial system and the support that Romania, as the future Presidency of the EU Council, provides in promoting international order based on regulations that are defined within the WTO. In context, the two officials tackled the topic of the Appellate Body and exchanged ideas concerning the solutions that could assist in overcoming the crisis. Romania was the signatory of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), and through itsparticipation in negotiations within the Uruguay Round, it become founding Member of the WorldTrade Organization (WTO) in 1995. (@FahadShabbir) Russian-Saudi joint energy fund will announce a number of deals with Russia's tech and service companies in the near future, Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) CEO Kirill Dmitriev said Wednesday. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Russian-Saudi joint energy fund will announce a number of deals with Russia's tech and service companies in the near future, Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) CEO Kirill Dmitriev said Wednesday. "The [OPEC-non-OPEC] deal created a foothold for broader investment cooperation in other energy sectors ... We created [with Saudi Arabia] an energy fund that will soon announce a number of investments, including in Russian technology and service companies," Dmitriev said in his speech at the Russian Energy Week (REW) forum. This cooperation is beneficial for Russia's Saudi partners not only financially, but also technologically, he noted. "We see that it is not only about investments coming into Russian companies, but also about access to Russian companies, contracts for such a company as Aramco, the world's largest oil company," RDIF head said. In July 2015, the RDIF and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) signed a partnership agreement to jointly invest in projects in Russia. Under the agreement, the Saudi fund's share of the investment will amount to $10 billion. In 2016, OPEC and a number of non-cartel oil producers agreed to cut oil production by 1.8 million barrels per day. The deal came into effect in 2017 and has since been extended until the end of 2018. The Russian Energy Week forum started earlier in the day in Moscow and will continue through Saturday. Rossiya Segodnya International Information Agency is the official media partner of the event. Three ships, Maersk Atlanta, Gas Amozon and Muskie carrying Containers, LPG and Diesel oil were allotted berths at Qasim International Container Terminal, Engro Vopak Terminal and FOTCO Oil Terminal respectively on Tuesday. KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :Three ships, Maersk Atlanta, Gas Amozon and Muskie carrying Containers, LPG and Diesel oil were allotted berths at Qasim International Container Terminal, Engro Vopak Terminal and FOTCO Oil Terminal respectively on Tuesday. Meanwhile another ship, Yang Zhou carrying 40,806 tonnes Coal also arrived at outer anchorage of Port Qasim during last 24 hours. A total of eight ships namely, Maersk Atlanta, MSC Athos, Forever SW, Gao Yu-2 Agria, Hercules Ocean, Gas Amozon, Maritime Gisela and Muskie are currently occupying PQA berths to load/offload Containers, Talcum Powder, Bitumen, Coal, Soya bean seeds, Palm oil and Diesel oil respectively during last 24 hours. A cargo volume of 121,543 tonnes, comprising 85,694 tonnes import cargo and 35,849 tonnes export cargo inclusive of containerized cargo carried in 3,094 Containers (TEUs), (1,603 TEUs Imports and 1,491 TEUs exports) was handled at the Port during last 24 hours. Container ship MSC Athos sailed out to sea on Wednesday morning, while three more ships Gas Amazon, Muskie and Maersk Atlanta are expected to sail on same day afternoon. Two ships, E.R Tokyo and MOL Gateway carrying Containers are expected to take berths at Container Terminal on Wednesday, while two more container ships, CMA CGM Al-Maviva and Hansa America withcontainers are due to arrive at Port Qasim on Thursday. (@rukhshanmir) The two-day Distinguished Innovations, Collaboration & Entrepreneurship (DICE) Festival, a business plan competitions, in the field of Agriculture and Food Sciences began at University of Agriculture Faisalabad on Wednesday. FAISALABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :The two-day Distinguished Innovations, Collaboration & Entrepreneurship (DICE) Festival, a business plan competitions, in the field of Agriculture and Food Sciences began at University of Agriculture Faisalabad on Wednesday. Students from 30 universities set up 120 stalls of innovative plans and presented their business plans at UAF expo centre. The event was organized by Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization in collaboration with DICE Foundation. The event was chaired by Pro-Rector, University of Faisalabad, Dr Zahir Javed Paracha, while DICE President Saad Elahi, DICE Chairperson Dr Khurshid Qureshi, All Pakistan Textile Mills Association President Engineer Rizwan Ashraf, Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC) UAF Director Dr Zahir Ahmad Zahir were among the guests of honour. Saad Elahi said universities were playing a pivotal role in the development and prosperity. He urged the students to develop the innovative and entrepreneurial skills to fight the challenges of the modern era. He said that strong academia- industry linkages would pave the way to address the issues including food security, and poverty alleviation. Dr Zahir Javed Paracha said that sixty percent of Pakistan's population was between the age of 15 and 30, adding "We will be able to compete with rest of the world by providing skills to our youth". He said that time had come to provide the platform to students to commercialize their innovative ideas with the help of strong academia-industry linkages. Dr Khurshid Qureshi said that innovation acts lifeblood of economy and termed it as the key ingredient behind its sustainable progress and prosperity. He said DICE was a strategic initiative of DICE Foundation, USA aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship culture in the country at all levels. He said that Dice provides a common platform for both academia and industry to share and collaborate on innovative concepts and products. UAF Director ORIC Zahir Ahmad Zahir called for strengthening industry-academia linkages and to promote innovative approaches. He added that the university was working on producing entrepreneurial skills among students so that they can become the job providers rather than seekers. Rizwan Ashraf, Dr Habib Gaba, Director Institute of Business Administration UAF Dr Mehmood A Randhawa, Vice President FCCI Tanvir Ahmad, Dr Waseem Ahmad, and other notables also spoke on the occasion. l The Higher Education Commission (HEC) is committed to sustaining the pace of progress made in the higher education sector by enhancing quality, increasing access and promoting relevance of research through international linkages with eminent higher education institutions. ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :The Higher Education Commission (HEC) is committed to sustaining the pace of progress made in the higher education sector by enhancing quality, increasing access and promoting relevance of research through international linkages with eminent higher education institutions. It was stated by the Chairman, HEC Dr Tariq Banuri during a meeting with a group of 29 US universities on its visit to the Commission Secretariat, a press release said on Wednesday. The group visited the HEC to learn about the HEC programmes of faculty development and strengthening of the research culture in Pakistani universities through the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor. They discussed modalities of collaboration for PhD Scholarship Programme (Phase I) under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor. Dr Banuri welcomed the delegation and said Pakistan has come across a major cultural change wherein the tendency towards acquiring higher education has gradually increased since the inception of HEC in 2002. He said the enrollment has reached nine per cent as compared to merely .26 per cent, adding that the number of universities has grown to 192 in the last one-and-a-half decade. He maintained that the number of research journals published in the country has reached 15000 per annum. He said that research has become an essential part of academic professionals. "This is the change that used to be unheard of in the past," he observed. Dr Banuri said HEC will welcome the US universities to become a part of the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor. He stressed the need for deliberations to explore ways for collaborative endeavours. Earlier, consultant HEC Dr Mahmood-ul-Hassan Butt briefed the delegation about the background and objective of US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor. He said the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor was established in June 2015 as a result of the US-Pakistan Education, Science and Technology Working Group (ESTWG) under the bilateral strategic dialogue. He said 200 Pakistani scholars were sent to the US universities in 2017, while HEC aims to send over 300 scholars in 2018 to the US universities. He underscored that as many as 10,000 scholars will be sent to pursue PhD in various subjects by 2025 in the 10-year programme. The US universities' delegation members expressed their views with regard to the programme and shared their willingness to participate in the ambitious programme of outstanding mutually beneficial research and faculty development. Today in Abu Dhabi, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC) and the Ministry of Education (MoE) have launched a new education initiative, which will see every schoolchild in the United Arab Emirates taught about conservation through the flagship species of the Houbara bustard. ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 03rd Oct, 2018) Today in Abu Dhabi, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC) and the Ministry of Education (MoE) have launched a new education initiative, which will see every schoolchild in the United Arab Emirates taught about conservation through the flagship species of the Houbara bustard. Pupils from selected Abu Dhabi schools joined representatives from both organisations to launch officially the innovative education programme at Jumeirah Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi. In his foreword to the new teacher handbook created for the initiative, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, writes, "We have the right to be proud of the achievements we have made in recent decades. However, the ceiling of our ambitions must not stop at this point. We must learn from these achievements and continue our work with a positive outlook in order to make a difference. One of the living models that we must learn from is the Houbara programme, which is a unique success story following years of experiment, scientific research and technical innovations. Examples like this are the means we need to safeguard our earnings and achieve our goals for the post-oil economy." The Houbara and the conservation programme to conserve the species initiated by the late Sheikh Zayed provide examples used to convey important skills and information to pupils in schools across the UAE. A specially designed handbook and website will provide teachers with the tools to teach multiple subjects across all age groups in the UAE school system. As part of the event, pupils and their teachers from local schools, which participated in the pilot programme of the initiative, presented their projects. Speaking at the launch, Hussain Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE Minister of Education, said, "In a highly competitive world, education is the key to excellence, leadership and advancement. This is the framework, which requires us in the Ministry of Education to be committed to developing an innovative, knowledge-based education system suitable for such a competitive world. This system includes all age groups and reflects the values of the nation in building an advanced society based on science, technology, innovation and knowledge." Al Hammadi added, "By incorporating the Houbara programme into the curriculum of the UAE, we honour a national symbol with outstanding contributions to education, development and conservation. By announcing this initiative in the Year of Zayed, we want to build on his wisdom and follow his pioneering initiatives in education linked to heritage, history and natural environment of the country." A pilot programme to test the validity of the initiative ran during the first half of 2018 with the assistance of MoE and the Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) in Abu Dhabi. Seven private and government Cycle 1 - 3 schools, carried out exercises contained within the handbook and, subsequently, provided their feedback. Commenting on the significance of the Houbara to Abu Dhabi, Majid Al Mansouri, Managing Director, International Fund for Houbara Conservation, said: "The Houbara that once sustained our ancestors in the desert, today provides an opportunity for future sustenance for those who wish to learn and gain knowledge. The Houbara is as important as the falcon to our heritage and values. From Primary to K-12 every child in the UAE will now get to learn about our environment and the need to protect it and the other species we share the planet with. This programme will produce the conservation leaders of tomorrow who will take forward Sheikh Zayeds legacy." Launching in the Year of Zayed, the Houbara conservation education initiative reflects the vision and values of the late Founding Father. As Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed said in his foreword; "The launch of this educational programme during the Year of Zayed is an extension of his legacy; reflecting the fruits of wisdom he planted on this good land. Perhaps the best celebration of the centennial of his birth is to remain true to the principles he lived by." The programme was officially launched by IFHCs honourary Ambassadors, Muhra Al Mansouri and Omar Al Marzouqi from Aspen Heights British School, who participated in a ceremonial E-Ribbon cutting on an IPad, which took the teacher website live. The handbook and website are now available to all teachers across schools in every emirate. To participate in the education programme schools should seek approval from MoE and then register their interest with IFHC. Teachers can assess the teaching tools on the secure website via a coordinator appointed in each participating school. Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, President of Malta, called for the establishment of new economic partnerships between the UAE and Malta, and expressed the intention to attract more UAE investors to her country. DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 03rd Oct, 2018) Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, President of Malta, called for the establishment of new economic partnerships between the UAE and Malta, and expressed the intention to attract more UAE investors to her country. The Maltese Presidents remarks came during the UAE-Malta Business Seminar, which was organised by Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry in cooperation with Consulate General of Malta in Dubai. The seminar, held at Dubai Chambers premises, came on the sidelines of a high-level delegation visit to the UAE, led by the Maltese President. Addressing attendees at the seminar, President Preca lauded the strong bilateral relations between Malta and the UAE and highlighted the many similarities and synergies that the two countries share as trade and maritime hubs for their respective regions. She explained that her visit to the UAE has further convinced her of the need to build on these synergies and work closer together with key public and private sector stakeholders in the UAE to explore untapped potential and bilateral business opportunities. In his welcome speech, Majid Saif Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chamber, reaffirmed Dubai Chambers commitment to improving UAE-Malta trade and investment ties, and expressed the intention to expand cooperation within various economic sectors, and the real estate sector in particular. He revealed that Dubai's non-oil trade with Malta amounted to US$23 million in 2017, and said that there is plenty of scope to boost the trade volume in the future and build new bridges between the UAE and Maltese business communities. "Maltas close proximity to European and North African markets, as well as its investor-friendly environment, offer plenty of advantages for Dubai-based companies that are keen to expand their global footprint or trade with markets in the region," said Al Ghurair. Dubai Chambers Chairman added, "With the participation and valuable support of Marie Louise Coleiro Preca and Ian Borg, we are confident that our discussions will the Maltese delegation will help build on that progress and pave the way for new cooperation and partnerships." President Preca was received by Majid Saif Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chamber, Hamad Buamim, President and CEO of Dubai Chamber, as well as Dubai Chamber board members and senior officials. The visiting delegation included Ian Borg, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects; Chris Agius, Junior Minister for Planning and Property Market; Sandro Chetcuti, Chairman of the Property Malta Foundation; and 30 Maltese business leaders representing a wide variety of companies and industries, in addition to representatives of the UAE Contractors Association. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, President of the Republic of Malta, called for the establishment of new economic partnerships between the UAE and Malta, and expressed the intention to attract more UAE investors to her country. (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 03rd Oct, 2018) DUBAI, 3rd October 2018 (WAM) - Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, President of the Republic of Malta, called for the establishment of new economic partnerships between the UAE and Malta, and expressed the intention to attract more UAE investors to her country. The Maltese Presidents remarks came during the UAE-Malta Business Seminar, which was organised by Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry in cooperation with General Consulate of Malta in Dubai. The seminar, held at Dubai Chambers premises, came on the sidelines of a high-level delegation visit to the UAE, led by the Maltese President. Addressing attendees at the seminar, Marie Louise Coleiro Preca lauded the strong bilateral relations between Malta and the UAE and highlighted the many similarities and synergies that the two countries share as trade and maritime hubs for their respective regions. She explained that her visit to the UAE has further convinced her of the need to build on these synergies and work closer together with key public and private sector stakeholders in the UAE to explore untapped potential and bilateral business opportunities. In his welcome speech, Majid Saif Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chamber, reaffirmed Dubai Chambers commitment to improving UAE-Malta trade and investment ties, and expressed the intention to expand cooperation within various economic sectors, and the real estate sector in particular. He revealed that Dubais non-oil trade with Malta amounted to $23 million in 2017, and said that there is plenty of scope to boost the trade volume in the future and build new bridges between the UAE and Maltese business communities. "Maltas close proximity to European and North African markets, as well as its investor-friendly environment, offer plenty of advantages for Dubai-based companies that are keen to expand their global footprint or trade with markets in the region," said Al Ghurair. Dubai Chambers Chairman added: "With the participation and valuable support of President Marie Louise Coleiro Preca and the Honourable Ian Borg, we are confident that our discussions will the Maltese delegation will help build on that progress and pave the way for new cooperation and partnerships." The President of Malta was received by Majid Saif Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chamber, Hamad Buamim, President and CEO of Dubai Chamber, as well as Dubai Chamber board members and senior officials. The visiting Maltese delegation included Ian Borg, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure & Capital Projects, Malta; Chris Agius, Junior Minister for Planning & Property Market; Sandro Chetcuti, Chairman of the Property Malta Foundation; and 30 Maltese business leaders representing a wide variety of companies and industries, in addition to representatives of the UAE Contractors Association. (@ChaudhryMAli88) President of Malta, Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, has commended the efforts made by the UAE government in ensuring women's empowerment and childcare as well as the support provided for victims of violence and human trafficking. DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 03rd Oct, 2018) President of Malta, Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, has commended the efforts made by the UAE government in ensuring women's empowerment and childcare as well as the support provided for victims of violence and human trafficking. She made the statements while visiting the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) today to learn about the efforts of providing care and protection for women and children in the UAE and the role of civil society organisations in this field. Afra Al Basti, DFWAC Director-General, received the President of Malta and her accompanying delegation, who were shown around the Foundation's facilities and care and rehabilitation services offered to victims of violence and human trafficking. The President of Malta discussed with Al Basti a number of humanitarian and social issues of common interest, including human trafficking, violence against women and children, and the international efforts in this field. President Louise praised the efforts of the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, and its services offered to the victims of violence and human trafficking, and the efforts of the UAE in general, stressing on the importance of supporting such efforts to provide care for children and empower women around the world to build safe and stable societies and a better future for current and next generations. Al Basti said that the Foundation is honoured by the visit of the President of Malta, and highly appreciated her interest in community issues, especially in providing protection and care for women and children, as well as her prominent role in promoting efforts at the international level in this area. President Louis's visit to the Foundation included a tour to the Children's Villa, care and rehabilitation building, as well as the 800111 helpline call center, vocational rehabilitation workshops and DFWACs main hostel, where she praised the quality of services provided by the Foundation. The President of Malta was accompanied during the visit, by a high-level delegation, including a number of ministers and senior officials. the visit was also attended by Ahmed Mohammed Al-Jarwan, member of the Federal National Council, President of the World Council for Tolerance and Peace, Shaikha Al Mansouri, Deputy Director General of the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, and a number of the Foundation's top officials. The Dubai Foundation for Women and Children received the President of Malta, Marie-Louise Colliero Perica, on a visit to learn about the efforts of providing care and protection for women and children in the UAE and the role of civil society organisations in this field. DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 03rd Oct, 2018) The Dubai Foundation for Women and Children received the President of Malta, Marie-Louise Colliero Perica, on a visit to learn about the efforts of providing care and protection for women and children in the UAE and the role of civil society organisations in this field. Afra Al Basti, Director-General of the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children received President Perica and her accompanying delegation, who toured the Foundation's facilities and care and rehabilitation services offered to victims of violence and human trafficking. The President of Malta discussed with Afra Al Basti a number of humanitarian and social issues of common interest, including human trafficking, violence against women and children, and the international efforts in this field. President Louise praised the efforts of the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, and its services offered to the victims of violence and human trafficking, and the efforts of the UAE in general, stressing on the importance of supporting initiatives to provide care for children and empower women around the world to build safe and stable societies and a better future for current and the next generations. Al Basti said that the Foundation is honoured by the visit of the Maltese President, and highly appreciates her interest in community issues, especially in providing protection and care for women and children, as well as her prominent role in promoting efforts at the international level in this area. President Louis's visit to the Foundation included a tour to the Children's Villa, care and rehabilitation building, as well as the 800111 helpline call centre, vocational rehabilitation workshops and DFWACs main hostel, where she praised the quality of services provided by the Foundation. The President of Malta was accompanied during the visit, by a high-level delegation, including a number of ministers and senior officials. the visit was also attended by Ahmed Mohammed Al-Jarwan, member of the Federal National Council, President of the World Council for Tolerance and Peace, Shaikha Al Mansouri, Deputy Director-General of the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, and a number of the Foundation's leaders. Ive known the family for a long time even before this tragedy happened and I feel this would only cause more pain for the family, Hausler said. I do believe he is still a danger to our residents and any residents of the area hed be released to. For public safety, he needs to remain incarcerated. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Yousif Eisa Al-Sabri, UAE Ambassador to Poland, has addressed the opening ceremony of the new academic year at the Jagiellonian University Institute of Oriental Studies in the Polish city of Krakow. WARSAW, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 04th Oct, 2018) Yousif Eisa Al-Sabri, UAE Ambassador to Poland, has addressed the opening ceremony of the new academic year at the Jagiellonian University Institute of Oriental Studies in the Polish city of Krakow. The opening addresses of the function were followed by a lecture by Ambassador Yousif Eisa Al-Sabri, entitled "Cultural Relations between the UAE and Poland". Ambassador Al Sabri said that the year 2018 is a special year for both countries as the UAE marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, while Poland celebrates 100 years of independence. The ceremony was preceded by the Ambassadors meeting with the JU Rector Prof. Wojciech Nowak, the Dean of the JU Faculty of Philology Prof. Elzbieta Gorska and the Head of the JU Institute of Oriental Studies Prof. Barbara Michalak-Pikulska. The conversation focused on cooperation ties between the Jagiellonian University Institute of Oriental Studies and the UAE Embassy in Poland, with a special focus on the next years celebrations of the 100th anniversary of the foundation of the first oriental studies unit at the Jagiellonian University. During the opening ceremony of the new academic year at the JU Institute of Oriental Studies, the new students were addressed by the JU Rector, the Dean of the Faculty of Philology, and the Head of the Institute of Oriental Studies. In his speech Prof. Wojciech Nowak pointed out that the high quality of education at the institute is reflected in the number of its alumni who find employment at diplomatic institutions. He also stressed that Oriental Studies graduates will play a very important role as mediators between different cultures in a globalised world. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Bahawalpur Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched anti-encroachment operation in different localities of the city to evacuate government land. BAHAWALPUR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :Bahawalpur Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched anti-encroachment operation in different localities of the city to evacuate government land. Official sources said here that Mayor, Municipal Corporation Bahawalpur, Aqeel Najam Hashmi had directed to launch anti-encroachment operation to evacuate land from mafia. "The operation was launched to evacuate costly government-owned land from the mafia," they said. A team of BMC headed by senior official, Muhammad Anwar Malik along with police personnel launched operation in areas including Fareed Gate, Shahi Bazaar, Machhli Bazaar, Fateh Khan Bazaar, Sarafa Bazaar, Model Town and other areas. "Action was also taken against makeshift shops and pushcarts which had become hurdles in smooth flow of traffic," they said, adding that shops were also demolished constructed on government-owned land without getting legalpermission. (@rukhshanmir) Director General National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Balochistan Mirza Muhammad Irfan Baig on Wednesday said that corruption is a form of social terrorism which has become a threat to country's future. QUETTA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :Director General National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Balochistan Mirza Muhammad Irfan Baig on Wednesday said that corruption is a form of social terrorism which has become a threat to country's future. He expressed these views while addressing a debate competition at University of Balochistan (UOB) in collaboration with Higher Education Commission. Vice Chancellor UOB Javed Iqbal, Director NAB Haron Rashid also attended the occasion. DG NAB said that the elements involved in corruption do not deserve any mercy. The menace of corruption has drastically been reduced due to an effective mechanism adopted by National Accountability Bureau (NAB). The DG said all out efforts are being made, taking the stakeholders on board to spread awareness against corruption, adding, parents and teachers should come forward and play a role in this regard. He urged the students to play their role in eliminating social evils including corruption. Educational institutions should promote Islamic teachings and values to purge corruption, he added. He said that NAB is intended to change the negative mind set of Pakistani youth especially those acquiring higher education, to produce optimistic nation. Every Pakistani realized that corruption has been the mother of all ills, which promoted nepotism and favoritism, and negated merit, transparency and accountability in the society, he added. The passionate youth have the vigour and zeal to take the country to glory and excellence. "We can and will, win the war against corruption," he added. He emphasized the students to reassure the commitment that they will fight against all social evils, including corruption. Later, DG NAB Balochistan distributed prizes among the students. Minister for Petroleum Ghulam Sarwar Khan Wednesday informed the National Assembly that all villages of district Karak would be provided natural gas within the next few months. ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :Minister for Petroleum Ghulam Sarwar Khan Wednesday informed the National Assembly that all villages of district Karak would be provided natural gas within the next few months. The minister said this while responding to a calling attention notice moved by Shahid Ahmed regarding the non-supply of gas to 38 villages in Karak despite expenditure of Rs 922 million. "Out of 38 villages, 29 villages had been provided gas-supply, while the remaining areas will be gasified by the end of the current year," he added. Ghaulam Sarwar said, "Council of Common Interest (CCI) recommended the case, and soon the issue of will be put before Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) for final approval and the remaining 9 village will provided gas soon". He said that as per rule, the village come under the cover of five kilometer, the companies are bound to provide the gas supply to the that areas. However, he said , if the areas do not come under the five kilometer, companies, Federal and provincial government provide funds for the connection. He expressed the hope that gas theft in the area will be ended after providing legal connection. "I will personally visit Karak and provide gas metro to the houses" he added. (@mahnoorsheikh03) A case against Rana Sana is expected to be reopened. Lahore (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News 3rd October, 2018) Former Punjab law minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Rana Sanaullah was the mastermind of Model Town incident. According to media reports, police sources have claimed that Rana Sanaullah was the mastermind of the Model Town carnage and a case against him is expected to be reopened. Azam Suleman was the home secretary at that time. Rana Sana had reportedly given the orders to conduct the Model Town operation despite opposition for the home secretary. On July 17, 2014, 14 people were killed and 100 others injured when the police opened fire to disperse protesting Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) workers during an anti-encroachment operation outside the residence of PAT chief Dr. Tahirul Qadri. The Lahore High Court (LHC) had turned down a petition by the PAT seeking to nominate the Sharif brothers and others as accused in the Model Town case. Following the LHC ruling, Prime Minister Imran Khan assured Dr Tahir ul Qadri that the victims of the Model Town massacre would get justice. FAISALABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 2nd Oct, 2018 ) ::Deputy Commissioner (DC) Syed Ahmad Fawad has directed that the scope of Anti-Encroachment Campaign should be expanded to residential areas under coordinated strategy by the concerned departments and drastic action be taken against the land grabbers to vacate the state land from them. He was presiding over a meeting to review the pace of Anti-Encroachment drive in the district. He directed the officers of Housing Department, FDA, Municipal Corporation, Auqaf, Health and education Department to devise an action plan for the retrieval of occupied land from the grabbers and said that the district administration would provide full legal and administrative support in this regard. He appointed the Assistant Commissioner City as focal person to supervise the crackdown against the land grabbers and encroachments and directed for consolidating all resources to make the anti-encroachment operation a success. He directed for carrying out the operation against land grabbers with full legal power and force. Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments to provide the complete details of the land under illegal possession and litigation. He said that performance report should be submitted daily regarding the anti-encroachment drive. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Syed Ahmad Fawad visited the 8 bazaars of clock tower and other adjoining areas. He inspected the removal of encroachments during operation. AC Sadar Liaqat Ali Kalhoro, Chief Officer MCF Zubair Hussain also accompanied him. He expressed his satisfaction over the two day performance of anti-encroachment drive and directed that the encroachments of all sorts should be removed from the all bazaars and markets to vacate the walkways. He announced that the operation against the land grabbers and encroachments would be continued as regular feature. He thanked the traders and shopkeepers for extending cooperation in this regard. (@ChaudhryMAli88) The World Bank (WB) delegation led by Senior Energy Expert Oliver Knight, in a meeting with Sindh Energy Minister Imtiaz Ahmed Sheikh here Tuesday, expressed concern over slow pace of work on solar energy projects for energizing government schools, rural health centres and villages in the far flung areas of the province. KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 2nd Oct, 2018 ) :The World Bank (WB) delegation led by Senior Energy Expert Oliver Knight, in a meeting with Sindh Energy Minister Imtiaz Ahmed Sheikh here Tuesday, expressed concern over slow pace of work on solar energy projects for energizing government schools, rural health centres and villages in the far flung areas of the province. Responding quickly upon the complaint, the Minister appointed Engineer Mehfooz Qazi as Project Director Sindh Solar Energy to gear up the pace of the World Bank funded project to provide solar energy to 5000 schools, rural health centres and 200 villages. Imtiaz Sheikh assured the delegation that he himself would be monitoring the solar energy projects. He on the occasion directed the officers concerned to complete the on-going projects within stipulated time and submit a report regarding all the projects within a week. Stressing the need for timely completion of projects, he said the delay in completion of projects not only delays the provision of facilities to the masses but also increases the cost of the project. The minister instructed the officers to ensure removal of all kinds of hurdles in timely completion of projects. The World Bank delegation after assurance of the Minister, expressed their satisfaction. The delegates assured that the Bank would continue its support to the Sindh government in energy projects. Secretary Sindh Energy Department Rashid Hussain Qazi, Director Alternative Energy board Mehfooz Qazi and others were present during the meeting. Zulfi Bukhari has announced to donate all of his salaries in the dams fund dedicated to the construction of Diamer Bhasha and Mohmand Dams. Islamabad (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News 3rd October, 2018) Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Overseas Pakistanis has refused to take salary from the national exchequer. According to media reports, Prime Minister Imran Khans close friend Zulfi Bukhari has announced to donate all of his salaries in the dams fund dedicated to the construction of Diamer Bhasha and Mohmand Dams. Zulfi Bukhari has informed the Cabinet Division regarding his decision while his director has also written a letter to the Cabinet Division for necessary formalities. Prime Minister Imran Khan had on September 18 appointed his close friend Zulfi Bukhari as his special assistant on Overseas Pakistanis. The appointment was challenged in the Supreme Court by petitioner Adil Chatha. Prime Minister Imran Khan and Cabinet Division were made a party in the petition. The petitioner had contended that a person having dual nationality cannot be an MNA and Zulfi Bukhari is made the special assistant to prime minister. Zulfi Bukharis appointment is illegal, the petition had stated. The petitioner had requested to restrict Zulfi Bukhari from working as the PM's special assistant. However, the Supreme Court had rejected a petition filed against the appointment of Zulfi Bukhari as aspecial assistant to Prime Minister Imran Khan on Overseas Pakistanis. The SC registrar had objected that the petitioners did not approach the proper forum and the prime minister cannot be made a party under Article 248 of the Constitution. Bukhari, a London-based businessman, is facing an inquiry by National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for holding offshore companies. The accountability bureau is investigating the use of the offshore companies to buy dozens of expensive commercial properties in London. Bukharis name was also added to the Exit Control List (ECL) in August as part of the probe. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin said on Wednesday that the Hungarian consul would be leaving Ukraine over Hungary's move to issue passports to Ukrainians living in the border region of Zakarpattia. KIEV (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin said on Wednesday that the Hungarian consul would be leaving Ukraine over Hungary's move to issue passports to Ukrainians living in the border region of Zakarpattia. A diplomatic row between Budapest and Kiev broke out after reports emerged in September saying that Hungarian passports were issued by Hungary's consulate in the city of Berehove to what Kiev estimates to be 100,000 Ukrainians. According to reports, Hungarian diplomats instructed Ukrainians to conceal from the Ukrainian government the fact that they had obtained Hungarian citizenship. Budapest has vowed to retaliate with the same measures if Ukraine expels a Hungarian consul from the country. "Regarding the specific actions of the Hungarian consul, there is no need for discussions. We need to dot the i's and we will do it. In the coming days, the consul will return to his homeland," Klimkin wrote in his article for the Evropeiskaya Pravda media outlet. If Budapest fails to recall its consul from Ukraine, Kiev will send a note ordering the diplomat's expulsion from the country, the foreign minister underlined. "I suggested to [Hungarian Foreign Minister] Peter Szijjarto that he should recall the consul, he has a diplomatic week. If this does not happen, and from what I understand it will not be happening, then tomorrow we will give a note to the Hungarian side that he should leave his job in Ukraine and the country," Klimkin said at a joint press conference with his Moldovan counterpart Tudor Ulianovschi. Ukraine does not recognize dual citizenship. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has said the Hungarian consul abused his powers, but Szijjarto has denied that issuing passports to residents of the Ukrainian border region violated any laws. Szijjarto also said that Budapest would give its passport to anyone who meet the proper criteria. (@ChaudhryMAli88) A fire at a petrochemical plant in western Saudi Arabia killed one worker and injured 11 others, local media reported on Wednesday. RIYADH, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :A fire at a petrochemical plant in western Saudi Arabia killed one worker and injured 11 others, local media reported on Wednesday. The fatal blaze erupted at a plant belonging to the National Petrochemical Industrial Company (NATPET) in Yanbu province on the Red Sea coast, the spokesperson for the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, Abdul Rahman Abdul Qader, told Al-ekhbariya tv in an early hour on Wednesday. Abdul Qader said the situation had been brought under control and industrial accident control teams were working on cooling the site. Preliminary indications suggest that the cause of fire was technical reasons related to the industrial processes within the industrial zone, he added. (CNN) Hundreds of protesters gathered Tuesday outside a South African court, where a man accused of raping a 7-year-old girl in a restaurant appeared for a bail hearing, activists and officials told CNN. Carrying placards with messages such as, "No bail for rape and murder," "Don't hurt us" and "Do not rape our sister," the demonstrators gathered outside the Pretoria Magistrate Court, where the suspect appeared for the second time in connection with the charges. Dozens of bikers, some waving South Africa's national flag, also rode around the court premises shouting, "No bail!" The 20-year-old man, who has not been named publicly, was denied bail and will remain in custody pending further investigation, the South African Police Service tweeted. His next hearing is November 1. The accused has been charged with rape and drug possession, police have said. He has not entered a plea, South African Police Service spokesman Lt. Lungelo Dlamini told CNN on Tuesday. The man was arrested September 22, the date of the alleged crime, in Pretoria at Dros, a restaurant popular with families. He allegedly followed the girl to the restroom, grabbed her and raped her in the men's bathroom, according to police and local news reports. 'We need life sentences' The incident is the latest in a recent string of rape cases that have sparked anger and outrage in South Africa. Women and children's rights activists gathered Tuesday outside the court also demanded more stringent penalties for rape offenders nationwide. South Africa's justice system must demonstrate "zero-tolerance" when prosecuting cases of sexual violence, especially those perpetrated against children, said Vincentia Dlamini, director of Johannesburg-based Women and Men Against Child Abuse. She and the police spokesman are not related, he said. "We need life sentences, and those accused should not be given parole," Dlamini told CNN. "The justice system should protect the victim because not every child raped in South Africa will have the whole country protesting for justice in their case." Last month, a 17-year-old girl who had just given birth at a hospital reportedly was raped by a man posing as a doctor. The incident happened at a hospital in the Eastern Cape province, authorities said. In August, 23-year-old university student took her own life two months after she reported that another student raped her on campus. Rape and other forms of sexual violence against women are pervasive problems in South Africa, government statistics show. An estimated 138 of every 100,000 women in the country were raped in 2016 and 2017, data released in June by the national statistical service show. This story was first published on CNN.com "Protests erupt as the suspect in the rape of a 7-year-old girl appears in a South African court" (@ChaudhryMAli88) ST. PETERSBURG (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th October, 2018) Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said Wednesday his government echoed the rest of the European Union in that it wanted closer ties with Russia, after tensions of the past years. "Not only Austria but the entire EU wishes for a closer cooperation," he said at a press briefing in St. Petersburg, standing alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kurz stressed that Austria - the host for the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe - would continue to keep peace on the continent. "As a small but active EU member state we play a role in shaping the EU stance - and we bear responsibility for it," the chancellor added. Ties between Russia and the soon-tobe-27-nation union soured after the outbreak of the Ukraine crisis in 2014. They went downhill in March after London blamed the poisoning of a Russian ex-spy on Moscow and expelled dozens of Russian diplomats. A score of UK's allies followed suit but Austria declined, pointing to its mediator status. (@rukhshanmir) MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Austrian Chancellor Sebastain Kurz will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday in the Russian historic city of St. Petersburg to discuss a wide range of bilateral and international issues. Putin will brief Kurz about Russia's active participation in the settlement of the Syrian crisis. The crisis in Ukraine might be discussed at the meeting as well. The leaders will also attend the opening of the "Imperial Capitals: St. Petersburg - Vienna. Masterpieces of Museum Collections" exhibition in St. Petersburg's State Hermitage Museum. The exhibition is a joint project of the Hermitage and the Art History Museum in Vienna. The talks between Kurz and Putin will be attended by Russian energy giant Gazprom CEO Alexey Miller and the head of Austria's OMV giant Rainer Seele. The executives will be also present at the exhibition's opening as both companies serve the main organizers and sponsors of the Hermitage event. (@rukhshanmir) ST. PETERSBURG (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th October, 2018) The Austrian-Russian energy cooperation creates conditions for ensuring not only the Austrian, but the whole Europe's energy security, Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said on Wednesday after the talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. "There has been good cooperation between Austria and Russia for 50 years. This cooperation is expanding and it provides the energy security not only for Austria, but also for Europe. We have 50 years of gas deliveries from Russia - we have celebrated the anniversary this year. If we look back to the history, these deliveries have always been stable, even in the most politically difficult times," Kurz said. (@FahadShabbir) Belarusian and Indian specialists signed agreements on cooperation in Minsk on 2 October, including cooperation in training forensic examination personnel, BelTA learned from the website of the State Forensic Examination Committee of Belarus. MINSK, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :Belarusian and Indian specialists signed agreements on cooperation in Minsk on 2 October, including cooperation in training forensic examination personnel, BelTA learned from the website of the State Forensic Examination Committee of Belarus. Representatives of the Gujarat Forensic Sciences University visited the State Forensic Examination Committee of Belarus. They signed agreements on cooperation with colleagues from the committee?s applied research center and the personnel retraining institute. In the future it will allow adopting practice-oriented training programs, including in the area of genetics, psychology, and other ones. It will allow organizing joint science and practice conferences, exchange scientific articles and forensic examination methods. The Indian delegation was made familiar with the main areas of work of the State Forensic Examination Committee of Belarus. Members of the delegation visited the labs where drugs and psychotropic substances are examined and where ballistics tests are arranged. It was the first visit of the Indian side to the committee. The guests emphasized that taking the actions the agreements stipulate is more important than signing the paperwork. Belarusian experts are expected to visit India soon for the sake of sharing the best practices and determining further specific avenues of cooperation, BelTA has learned. (@rukhshanmir) MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) The Colombian government will delay the purchase of new air defense systems for financial reasons, the country's Defense Minister Guillermo Botero said on Tuesday addressing the parliament. There have been media reports recently saying that Colombian President Ivan Duque planned to buy the newest air defense complexes worth about 1.1 trillion peso ($367 million) in light of the escalation of tensions with neighboring Venezuela and the possibility of air attacks. France, Israel and the United States have been mentioned among the possible suppliers of the systems. "We will not invest 1.1 trillion peso in air defense now, the lack of budget is among the reasons for that. I could also cite other ones, but, I think, this is enough," Botero said as quoted by the Webinfomil military portal. In late September, the Colombian president said at the UN General Assembly that Bogota historically purchased new arms depending on the needs of the country and would continue to do so in the future. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said on Wednesday that it was almost impossible to ensure EU energy security without supplies from Russia. VIENNA (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said on Wednesday that it was almost impossible to ensure EU energy security without supplies from Russia. The statement comes ahead of Kurz's visit to St. Petersburg, where he is expected to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin later on Wednesday to discuss a wide range of bilateral and international issues. According to Kurz, the sides will focus on cultural, economic and energy cooperation. "When it comes to energy supplies to Austria and Europe, it is inconceivable to imagine them without Russia, whether one likes it or not," Kurz said after a government meeting. The chancellor stressed the need to maintain a regular dialogue with EU neighbor nations with whom the bloc had disagreements. "It is important to simultaneously seek dialogue, seek contact, because, in the long term, peace on our continent is possible only together with Russia and not against it," he noted. Kurz's upcoming visit to St. Petersburg is set to become the fourth meeting of the two leaders this year. (@FahadShabbir) The prosecutor's office of the city of Thessaloniki has launched a criminal probe against Russian national Alexander Vinnik, who was arrested in Greece in July 2017 at the request of the United States, Vinnik's lawyer Timofey Musatov told Sputnik on Wednesday. ATHENS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) The prosecutor's office of the city of Thessaloniki has launched a criminal probe against Russian national Alexander Vinnik, who was arrested in Greece in July 2017 at the request of the United States, Vinnik's lawyer Timofey Musatov told Sputnik on Wednesday. "The criminal probe against Vinnik has begun. In accordance with the Greek legislation, a preliminary investigation will take place, followed by a decision whether a criminal case should be be initiated," Musatov said. According to the lawyer, two investigators of the Greek financial police arrived on Wednesday at the Diavata prison in Thessaloniki and announced that Vinnik will be questioned in connection with the start of the criminal proceedings against him. Vinnik was detained in Greece in July 2017 at the request of the US authorities on various charges, including laundering $4 billion through bitcoin cryptocurrency exchange BTC-E, which was allegedly headed by Vinnik. The exchange has said that the Russian national had never been engaged in its activities. The suspect himself has denied the US accusations. Vinnik is also wanted for separate fraud and money-laundering charges in Russia and France. (@rukhshanmir) ATHENS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th October, 2018) The nationwide conference on the Macedonian naming issue will be held in Athens on October 21-23, the organizers told Sputnik on Wednesday adding that the Greeks from the whole world would discuss the Greek-Macedonian agreement on Macedonia's name. "This will be a large meeting of the Greeks from whole Greece and the whole world. The Greeks from Russia will also arrive. The problems in the relations with Skopje at many levels will be discussed. The new data on the Prespa Agreement [on Macedonia's naming issue] will be presented. Famous Greek lawyers have prepared a legal opinion. Historians will tell about the origins of the problem. The problem of splitting the church in Skopje, which wants to separate from the Serbian Church, will be raised," one of the organizers of the meeting said. The nationwide conference will be held in the old parliament's building. "All legal means of opposition to actions, that may threaten the national and sovereign rights of Greece, will be discussed," the organizing committee said. Greece and Macedonia, officially known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), have been entangled in a naming dispute for years, with Athens opposing the use of "Macedonia," which is also the name of a region in Greece. The agreement on the new name for Macedonia - Republic of Northern Macedonia - was signed by Macedonian Foreign Minister Nikola Dimitrov and his Greek counterpart Nikos Kotzias on June 17. If ratified, the agreement will allow the renamed Macedonia to join the European Union and NATO, since Greece will no longer be blocking the process. On Sunday, Macedonia held a referendum on the issue. According to the State Election Commission, 91.46 percent of voters chose to rename the country, while 5.65 percent voted against the agreement. However, the turnout amounted to just 36.91 percent, meaning that the referendum failed to secure the 50-percent turnout needed to be valid. (@rukhshanmir) SIMFEROPOL (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Hendrik Weber, the head of the Norwegian delegation which is currently on its six-day visit to Crimea, told Sputnik on Wednesday that the country's mission considered Crimea a legitimate part of Russia. The visit of the Norwegian delegation, comprising public figures, representatives of academia and entrepreneurs, to the peninsula began on Sunday and will last through Saturday. The visit's agenda includes numerous meetings and trips around the peninsula. "[Our] position is clear and explicit. We consider Crimea a legitimate part of the Russian Federation," Weber stated. He added, at the same time, that the Norwegian authorities maintained the position doubting the legitimacy of the referendum on Crimea's rejoining Russia. "But the situation is changing. Now many politicians, we believe, do realize what actually happened in 2014," Weber said. Crimea rejoined Russia in 2014, when 97 percent of the peninsula's residents voted in favor of the move in a referendum. Despite this, the reunification was not recognized by the majority of the Western countries, including EU member states, which subsequently imposed economic and political sanctions on Moscow. Russian authorities have repeatedly stated that the Crimean residents decided to rejoin Russia following a democratic procedure. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that the issue of Crimea's territorial belonging was "historically closed." (@FahadShabbir) Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavko Klimkin said on Wednesday that the Hungarian consul would be leaving Ukraine over Hungary's move to issue passports to Ukrainians living in the border region of Zakarpattia. KIEV (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavko Klimkin said on Wednesday that the Hungarian consul would be leaving Ukraine over Hungary's move to issue passports to Ukrainians living in the border region of Zakarpattia. A diplomatic row between Budapest and Kiev broke out after reports emerged in September saying that Hungarian passports were issued by Hungary's consulate in the city of Berehove to what Kiev estimates to be 100,000 Ukrainians. According to reports, Hungarian diplomats instructed Ukrainians to conceal from the Ukrainian government the fact that they had obtained Hungarian citizenship. Budapest has vowed to retaliate with the same measures if Ukraine expels a Hungarian consul from the country. "Regarding the specific actions of the Hungarian consul, there is no need for discussions. We need to dot the i's and we will do it. In the coming days, the consul will return to his homeland," Klimkin wrote in his article for the Evropeiskaya Pravda media outlet. Ukraine does not recognize dual citizenship. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has said the Hungarian consul abused his powers, but Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has denied that issuing passports to residents of the Ukrainian border region violated any laws. Szijjarto also said that Budapest would give its passport to anyone who meet the proper criteria. (@FahadShabbir) Hungary will not give up on its plan to build new nuclear power units at the Paks nuclear power plant (NPP) with Russia's participation, even in the face of foreign pressure, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Wednesday. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Hungary will not give up on its plan to build new nuclear power units at the Paks nuclear power plant (NPP) with Russia's participation, even in the face of foreign pressure, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Wednesday. In his speech at the Russian Energy Week (REW) forum in Moscow, Szijarto mentioned that 50 percent of Hungary's electric energy needs were currently being covered by the Paks NPP, while by 2030, this figure would rise to 90 percent. He explained that this surge would be possible due to new nuclear power units. According to Szijarto, Hungary will never be forced to give up on the Paks II project, which envisages the creation of two new nuclear power units. "What we experience currently in the world is a huge and tremendous debate about nuclear energy, full of hypocrisy and double standards ... I think we have to stick to our approach that putting together the composition of the national energy mix is a core national competence, and no one should influence, no one should put pressure on us or any other country . .. We always respect such kind of decisions of other countries, but we expect other countries to respect our decisions," Szijarto said. Szijarto added that Hungary would never accept "negative discrimination" regarding nuclear energy. He voiced his hope that Austria's appeal against the European Commission's decision to approve the Paks II project would be rejected. Austria announced in late January that it would sue the European Commission for allowing Hungary to expand its Paks NPP, claiming that since nuclear energy was not sustainable, the creation of new power units would damage the interests of the EU nations. In 2014, Russia and Hungary signed an agreement to build the fifth and sixth water-cooled and water-moderated VVER-1200 reactors of the Paks NPP. Russia has pledged to loan 10 billion Euros (about $12 billion) to Hungary for the Paks II project. The REW, which aims to promote international energy cooperation, started earlier on Wednesday and will last through Saturday. The Rossiya Segodnya International news Agency is a media partner of the event. Hungary and the Russian energy giant Gazprom should rethink further cooperation after the expiry of the long-term contract in 2020, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Wednesday. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Hungary and the Russian energy giant Gazprom should rethink further cooperation after the expiry of the long-term contract in 2020, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Wednesday. In 1996, Gazprom and Hungary's Panrusgaz signed a 20-year long-term agreement on gas supplies, which was later extended for another four years. "Our long-term agreement with Russia will expire at the end of 2020 ... We have just started negotiations about deliveries from Russia to Hungary for 2020. At the end of this year our long-term contract will be basically over and we have to rethink the way of cooperation after the conclusion of the agreement, which was originally a 20-year long agreement, but was extended by four additional years," Szijjarto said at the Russian Energy Week forum. Iran's vice-president for science and technology Sorena Sattari, heading a high-ranking delegation in Africa, met with Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni. TEHRAN, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :Iran's vice-president for science and technology Sorena Sattari, heading a high-ranking delegation in Africa, met with Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni. The Iranian official described promotion of the two countries' scientific, technological cooperation as necessary and important. Iran is globally known for its gas and oil resources, he said, but it should be noted that the skilled human resource in various sciences is another potential that can set the ground for technological growth and development. Representatives of some ministries and organizations are also accompanying Sattari during his visit to east African countries. The fields of activity of the delegation members include health, medical equipment, herbal and chemical medicines, IT, chemical, electric and electronic, hi-tech machinery, engineering and mine industries. The Iranian official expressed his country's readiness for sharing experiences in various fields of technology with the Ugandan companies. Welcoming the offer, the African president described Iran as an influential country in the region that is so resilient that continues its impressive activities despite sanctions. Meanwhile, Sattari also met the Uganda's Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Elioda Tumwesigyeand discussed the importance of technology ecosystem for having a stable economy. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Former Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma resigned on Tuesday as Kiev's envoy to Trilateral Contact Group on Ukraine, his spokeswoman Daria Olifer said. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 02nd October, 2018) Former Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma resigned on Tuesday as Kiev's envoy to Trilateral Contact Group on Ukraine, his spokeswoman Daria Olifer said. "At the end of today's work in Minsk, Leonid Kuchma thanked his colleagues in the Trilateral Contact Group for their joint work. Thus, his work as an envoy of Ukraine in the Trilateral Contact Group concluded," Olifer wrote on Facebook. Kuchma expressed gratitude to the Belarusian side for supporting the process of negotiations, the spokeswoman added. The Russian envoy to the Minsk peace talks, Boris Gryzlov, told reporters that he respected Kuchma's decision to resign from the contact group, adding that he knew Kuchma as an experienced political figure who was ready for dialogue. "I hope that the value of dialogue will prevail in Ukrainian politics in the end and will help resolve the current conflict in Donbas," Gryzlov said. Special Representative of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) to the contact group Martin Sajdik said that Kiev had not yet announced who would replace Kuchma as the country's envoy to the contact group, noting, however, that Kuchma was always accompanied by Ruslan Demchenko, an adviser to the Ukrainian president. Sajdik also expressed hope that Kuchma's resignation would not affect the peace process in Donbas. The Contact Group on Ukraine is comprised of representatives from Ukraine, Russia and the OSCE. The group was created in 2014 in order to facilitate the settlement of crisis in the Ukrainian region of Donbas. Kuchma served as president of Ukraine from 1994 to 2005. Malaysia's system of governance was abused by his predecessor Najib Razak, who used his authority to rob the country, said Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad. KUALA LUMPUR, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :Malaysia's system of governance was abused by his predecessor Najib Razak, who used his authority to rob the country, said Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad. "The system may be the same but the man is different, that system has had five prime ministers before him and there is no accusation of corruption of that scale against all those four. "But the system can be abused. What he did was to use his authority to steal money," Dr Mahathir told BBC's Hardtalk programme during an interview in London. The 20-minute programme was aired Tuesday. Speaking to the programme's anchor, Zeinab Badawi, the prime minister said it was up to the court to decide on the charges against Najib. Najib is currently facing 21 charges over alleged money-laundering activities involving more than RM4.3 billion and four corruption charges with the sum totalling RM2.3 billion related to funds from 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), which was credited into his personal account. Earlier, in August, Najib faced four charges over alleged abuse of power and money laundering. Najib pleaded not guilty to all the charges. "It is enough for us to charge him and its up for the court to decide whether our evidence is correct or his denial is correct," Dr Mahathir told BBC's Hardtalk. During the interview, Zeinab posed some tough questions about his decision to return to office and work with the then opposition parties in the 14th General Election (GE14) and affirmative actions, his fight against corruption and on the new government, Pakatan Harapan. Dr Mahathir was on his second-leg visit to United Kingdom from Sept 29 tp Oct 1 after attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York. His first-leg visit was from Sept 21 to 25. To a question, Dr Mahathir said the losses of billions of Ringgit during his first premiership was due to foreign Currency trading then. "Well at that time, they didn't prove that I took any money but we did lose money because some of our peoplegot involved in trading currencies and they lost money," he said. (@ChaudhryMAli88) MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday, commenting on the US envoy to NATO statement about the possibility to down Russian missiles, that Moscow did not pay great attention to the remarks made by the envoys since it had enough uncertainties with high-ranking politicians. On Tuesday, US Envoy to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison said in a press briefing that the United States could eventually "take out" Russian missiles that are allegedly in development in violation of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. "[The Kremlin] prefers not to pay extra attention to statements by ambassadors while we have too many uncertainties with the messages on the higher level," Peskov told the CNN broadcaster. Later on Tuesday, Hutchison wrote on her Twitter blog that she did not imply a preventive strike on Russia. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, in turn, said that the statement by the US envoy to NATO constituted aggressive rhetoric. The Soviet Union and the United States signed the INF treaty in 1987. It required the parties to destroy ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of 311 miles to 3,317 miles. The two powers have repeatedly accused each other of violations. (@ChaudhryMAli88) The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) looks forward to welcoming Macedonia as a member of the alliance, US Envoy to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison said in a press briefing on Tuesday WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 02nd October, 2018) The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) looks forward to welcoming Macedonia as a member of the alliance, US Envoy to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison said in a press briefing on Tuesday. "We are very pleased that they got over a 90 percent vote in the referendum that they had, and we now look to the people of Macedonia and the Parliament to take the next step and we hope to welcome Macedonia, Northern Macedonia, as a new member of our alliance in the near future," Hutchison said. Earlier on Tuesday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said the accession talks have already started, and negotiations to make Macedonia part of NATO could be completed by January 2019. On Sunday, Macedonia held a referendum on changing the country's name from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to the Republic of North Macedonia, which opens the way for Macedonia's accession to the European Union and NATO. According to Macedonia's State Election Commission, 91.46 percent of voters chose to rename the country, while 5.65 percent voted against the agreement. However, the turnout amounted to just 36.91 percent, meaning that the referendum failed to secure the 50 percent turnout needed to be valid. However, the country's prime minister, Zoran Zaev supported the results and pledged to proceed with ratifying the agreement, despite the low turnout. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Polish companies plan to purchase pollock, codfish and salmon in Russia's Primorsky Territory and then transport the fish to the country via the Northern Sea Route, the territory's administration said in a statement on Wednesday. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Polish companies plan to purchase pollock, codfish and salmon in Russia's Primorsky Territory and then transport the fish to the country via the Northern Sea Route, the territory's administration said in a statement on Wednesday. Earlier on Wednesday, Primorsky Territory Deputy Governor Valentin Dubinin met with a Polish delegation in Vladivostok. The Polish delegation comprised the staff of the Polish Consulate General in Irkutsk, the Polish Foreign Ministry and representatives of business circles, according to the statement. "The Baltic Sea is not same rich in biological resources, that is why we would like to purchase your pollock, codfish and salmon and then ship it to Poland via the Northern Sea Route," an official from the Department of Economic Cooperation of the Polish Foreign Ministry said, as quoted by the administration. Russia's Primorsky Territory accounts for about 20 percent of Russia's total catch. In September, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered that the transportation between Europe and the Pacific Rim should be improved with the help of the Northern Sea Route, adding that its annual flow of goods should be increased to 80 million tonnes. The cooperation between Russia and Austria in economy and energy is burgeoning as turnover has doubled in the first part of 2018, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday at the meeting with Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz. ST.PETERSBURG (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) The cooperation between Russia and Austria in economy and energy is burgeoning as turnover has doubled in the first part of 2018, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday at the meeting with Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz. "It is good that the relations are developing. The turnover is growing. Last year, it grew by 40 percent and this year, in the first semester, it has doubled," Putin said, noting that the investments in both economies are also on the rise. At the same time, the Austrian chancellor commended the state of affairs in relations with Russia, saying that "I am pleased with the fact that we have very good cooperation in the field of economic security. " Putin and Kurz have attended the opening of the "Imperial Capitals: St. Petersburg - Vienna. Masterpieces of Museum Collections" exhibition in St. Petersburg's State Hermitage Museum. The exhibition is a joint project of the Hermitage and the Art History Museum in Vienna. Moscow and Vienna actively cooperate on the Nord Stream 2 project, which envisages the construction of two gas pipelines that will run from Russia, through the Baltic Sea and to a hub in Germany, bypassing Ukraine entirely. The project is a joint venture of the Russian Gazprom energy giant with Austrian OMV AG, French Engie, UK-Dutch Royal Dutch Shell, and German Uniper and Wintershall. (@ChaudhryMAli88) ST. PETERSBURG (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th October, 2018) Russian President Vladimir Putin said, after meeting Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz on Wednesday, that the EU country was open to offering humanitarian assistance to Syria. "Russia notes Austria's readiness to join humanitarian efforts and support the people of Syria," Putin told reporters at a press briefing in St. Petersburg. He stressed that Austrian involvement in humanitarian response should be coordinated with Syrian authorities in Damascus. "It is important that any aid should be coordinated through a channel that was agreed on with legitimate [Syrian] authorities, and cover all territories that suffered from terrorist hostilities and the civil war," Putin added. BRUSSELS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th October, 2018) Belgium's decision to phase out nuclear energy by 2025 may not be possible to implement, especially in light of recent concerns about possible electricity shortages in winter. Belgium has been having trouble with its nuclear reactors for several months now as aging reactors have had to undergo maintenance. Only one out of seven reactors in the whole country is expected to be working in the beginning of November. France, Germany and the Netherlands have agreed to supply additional electricity, if needed, according to Energy Minister Marie-Christine Marghem. In addition, Belgium may have to rely more on Vilvoorde gas-powered station. Meanwhile, Marghem, who said in September that the country would not need a strategic power supply for the winter, has chastised nuclear station operator Engie-Electrabel over the way they have planned maintenance works. Professor Damien Ernst of Liege University believes that the plant operator is doing "what it needs to do." "They repair and have shut down the reactors during that period. So suddenly, everybody in Belgium realizes how much the country depends upon the cheapest of its energy sources, nuclear energy," Ernst told Sputnik. An intelligent grid spanning entire Europe and capable, among other things, of sending renewable electricity from one area to another remains a project in the making for now. It remains unclear how the Belgian government will compensate for the nuclear-produced electricity once the plants have been stopped, Ernst pointed out. "Politicians have lightly promised that nuclear power plants would all be dismantled by 2025. But until now, nobody knows how the gap in electricity production will be filled. It is practically not feasible. But of course, 6 or 7 years in politics, it is like eternity. The politicians of today will not have the same responsibility then, so promises are easy, but they can't be kept," the energy expert said. The drive to shift to renewables has been intensifying in Europe lately, but it may not be the perfect solution, according to Patrice d'Oultremont, president of VentdeRaison (member of EPAW, the European Platform Against Windfarms). "Wind turbines can produce a lot, but also nothing at all for days on end! That is why France has to come to the rescue, through the improving European electricity grid, to save Germany and its other neighbours from regular black-outs, due to ideological choices made in favour of wind energy, which is not even reducing CO2 emissions, the only reason why it was chosen in the first place," d'Oultremont told Sputnik. According to d'Oultremont, stopping all nuclear plants in Belgium by 2025 is not "feasible." "Or else we need now to start installing myriads of gas power plants to compensate for the intermittence of wind and solar energies. Whatever the solution they come up with, it will be incredibly costly," the anti-wind activist said. While the full overhaul of Europe's power system remains mostly a project, the issues of aging reactors come to the fore. Frank Hardeman, the director of the Federal Agency for Nuclear Safety (AFCN) has argued that the maintenance on Belgian reactors was rather superficial in the past and the problems with concrete in some of the plants' buildings were underestimated. Thierry Saegeman, the chief nuclear officer of Engie-Electrabel in Belgium, stressed that the company was far from cheerful about the necessity to shut down nuclear reactors. "Problems have appeared in the concrete structure of emergency buildings that are never used and are outside the nuclear enclosure. It is not 'dangerous'," Saegeman told Sputnik. According to Saegeman, the concrete roofs of some of the ancillary buildings show signs of aging. "It is a question of security: we are very strict and want these relief units to be operational, with their concrete roof repaired, before relaunching the nuclear power plants," Saegeman emphasized. Ernst argues that "stringent" safety rules for nuclear plans are to be expected, but in some cases they might go overboard. "We have a double [containment] envelope, steel, and concrete, for the reactors, enough to withstand the fall of a Boeing or an Airbus plane on the building, but when the engineers want these ancillary buildings of the power plant to withstand the direct hit at full speed of a fighter-bomber like an F16, we go too far. Safety procedures are unnecessarily heavy in some instances. We should be more realistic," Ernst said. Elia, electricity system operator, has said that the measures that have already been taken will reduce the risk of selective blackouts. However, a lot will depend on the weather. Ernst pointed out that any country that pledged to help Belgium would have to take care of its own citizens first in case of need. BRUSSELS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) While Macedonia has yet to reach a consensus on whether to approve the new name agreed with Greece, the government has claimed victory after an overwhelming majority backed the change in a low-turnout non-binding referendum. Slightly less than 37 percent of the Macedonian electorate showed up to vote on Sunday, but over 90 percent of them supported the new name, agreed by Greece and Macedonia in June. The two countries agreed that the new name should be the Republic of North Macedonia. The deal resolved the decades-long dispute between Athens and Skopje over the use of "Macedonia," which is also the name of a region in Greece. The Macedonian Parliament has already endorsed the deal twice, in June and in July, but President Gjorge Ivanov has refused to sign it. Prime Minister Zoran Zaev needs two-thirds of the parliament to back the name change. The prime minister's Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM) alone does not have the required majority in a 120-seat parliament. It holds roughly the same number of seats as Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization - Democratic Party for Macedonian National Unity (VMRO-DPMNE), the main opposition party, If the deal is approved in Macedonia, it will pave the way for the country to pursue membership of NATO and the European Union, which Greece could veto in the past over its objection to the name. GREEK SYRIZA SUPPORTIVE OF REFERENDUM Vice-President of the European Parliament and a member of the Greek ruling Syriza party Dimitrios Papadimoulis called the result of the vote a "positive development." "This is a very important and positive development. Participation was low, it has a consultative character and PM Zaev still has the upper hand in decision-making. The next step now is for the Parliament to ratify the deal and for Zaev to reach the necessary qualified majority of two-thirds," Papadimoulis told Sputnik. According to Papadimoulis, Zaev "can secure the necessary qualified majority," but he could succeed even if he had to call a snap election. "Such a development could delay the entire process, but we could live with that as long as Zaev can manage to push for the adoption of constitutional reforms," Papadimoulis said. The Greek politician stressed that the failure to sign the agreement and, therefore, to join NATO and the European Union would be "a defeat of progressive, pro-European forces." Stelios Kouloglou, a vice-chair of the European Parliament's Committee on Development and a member of the Syriza party, stressed that the stability in the Balkans would be "at stake" if the name change deal was not approved in Macedonia. "This agreement is for the best interest of both our countries and for the area that is getting into turmoil again. Unfortunately, the conservative parties that belong to the EPP in the European Parliament, have adopted a nationalistic demagogic position that goes against peace and stability," Kouloglou told Sputnik. OPPOSITION WANTS NO NAME CHANGE However, not everyone in Macedonia approves of the name change and subsequent attempts to join NATO or the European Union. Janko Bachev, the president of United Macedonia opposition party, hailed the results of the low-turnout referendum as the victory of opposition. According to Bachev, the majority of Macedonians were not interested in EU or NATO membership. "The future of the world belongs to Russia, China and the rest of the BRICS countries and Macedonia must fit in that future," the opposition politician told Sputnik. The very wording of the referendum questions was "a disgrace," as it focused on "joining the EU and NATO" rather than simply a name change, Professor of Political Economy at Department of Economics in the University of Macedonia Stavros Mavroudeas told Sputnik. According to the expert, the people of Macedonia would have more freedom in deciding its own future if it stayed out of both blocs. "The Balkan people have already a bitter taste of NATO's actions via the war and the destruction of Yugoslavia," the expert said. Gen. Francis Briquemont, who was a head of the UN Protection Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1993-1994, said the referendum in Macedonia reminded him of the 1992 Bosnian independence referendum, largely boycotted by the Bosnian Serbs. "It could be like what happened some 25 years ago, when the Serbs refused to participate and boycotted the vote in Bosnia," the retired Belgian general told Sputnik. Briquemont, who has a first-hand experience of conflict in the Balkans, said he is wary of NATO's expansion and growing budget. "To justify an increase of its budgets the famous increase of member states military budgets to reach 2 percent of GDP NATO creates itself an enemy: Russia," Briquemont said. Russia itself said, regarding the referendum, it was hoping that everything would remain within the legal framework. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) The recent tensions between Serbia and the self-proclaimed Republic of Kosovo show that the authorities on both sides are focused on their immediate political agenda rather than a sustainable solution to a decade-long conflict, Serbian opposition politicians told Sputnik. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Saturday ordered the country's army to be on high alert after Kosovo's special forces were deployed in the vicinity of Lake Gazivoda near Belgrade-controlled Gazivoda hydroelectric power station, local media reported, citing the Serbian presidential administration. Kosovo and Serbia are vying for the control of the lake and the station. The Republic of Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia in 2008. However, a number of countries, including Serbia itself, Russia, China and Spain, among others, do not recognize its independence. AUTHORITIES WORKING ON OWN AGENDA The incident shows the Serbian and Kosovar authorities pursuing their own political agenda rather than focus on everyday issues, Bosko Obradovic, the president of Serbian opposition Movement Dveri, told Sputnik. "For several times already, the authorities in Belgrade and Pristina have resorted to similar means and connived to organize synchronized incidents to serve their daily political goals and distract public attention from burning issues related to their everyday life. The same thing happened with the recent arrest of the Director of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija, Marko D[j]uric, and the recent visit by President Vucic to the north of Kosovo," Obradovic said. Djuric was detained by the Kosovar police in March and later expelled from Kosovo for allegedly having crossed the border illegally. Vucic visited Lake Gazivoda in early September after refusing to meet with Kosovo President Hashim Thaci in Brussels. Thaci said that indirect talks through EU mediation had shown that there were still major disagreements between the two sides and they could not be settled fast. Meanwhile, Obradovic believes that the authorities in Kosovo and Serbia do not want a "sustainable solution for the cohabitation of Serbs and Albanians in Kosovo and Metohija." "The only thing they are interested in is to remain in power by faking conflicts and creating an atmosphere to deceive people into thinking that changing borders in the Balkans could be a sustainable solution," Obradovic said. Velimir Ilic, the president of New Serbia party, said the heightened tensions could even be the result of a Belgrade-Pristina agreement benefiting Kosovo's president. "Even though the background of this event, as [it is said] unofficially, is the agreement between Thaci and Vucic to animate the Kosovo electorate for Thaci's needs, this is a very dangerous game. We had the same situation with Vucic, who also went to Lake Gazivode for election purposes in order to animate his voters," Ilic told Sputnik. President of Enough is Enough (DJB) political movement Branislav Mihajlovic believes that Serbia should stay on alert over what he said was a "cheap provocation" on part of Pristina. "Deployment of special forces to Lake Gazivode is a sign of weakness and an immature political move by Pristina. Serbian authorities should remain on high alert, but should not buy into cheap provocations, as this one is. Diplomatic measures are always a preferred choice when dealing with tensions in Kosovo and Metohija," Mihajlovic told Sputnik. The politician stressed that his party had proposed a draft law that could provide a lasting solution. Under this law, the relationship between Serbia and Kosovo would be modeled upon that between Denmark and Faroe Islands. Obradovic said he was hoping that the presence of NATO-led Kosovo Force in the self-proclaimed republic should be balanced by the military presence of Russian forces. "For years I've been advocating the military presence of the Russian forces in the Serbian territory in order to strike a balance between the powers in the Balkans, thus creating conditions conducive to a lasting and peaceful solution ... A good place to start would be to grant diplomatic status to members of the Russian-Serbian Humanitarian Center in Nis, which the staff there are still unable to obtain from the Serbian Ministry of the Interior," the politician said. The Russian Foreign Ministry on Monday condemned the lack of reaction to the Lake Gazivoda situation from the international peacekeepers in Kosovo. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday urged for restraint, adding that the alliance was fully supportive of Serbia-Kosovo dialogue. Russia and Hungary are concerned about official Kiev's policy aimed at Ukrainization of education and infringement of the rights of ethnic minorities, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Wednesday after talks with his Hungarian counterpart Peter Szijjarto. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Russia and Hungary are concerned about official Kiev's policy aimed at Ukrainization of education and infringement of the rights of ethnic minorities, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Wednesday after talks with his Hungarian counterpart Peter Szijjarto. "Both Hungary and Russia, like all other countries of the world, are in favor of the full implementation of the Minsk agreements. We also have common concerns about the Ukrainian authorities' policy aimed at Ukrainization of education, infringement of the rights of ethnic minorities... contrary to the obligations that Ukraine assumed under the relevant international conventions," Lavrov told reporters. (@rukhshanmir) Russian President Vladimir Putin will receive credentials of new foreign ambassadors to Russia on October 11, presidential aide Yury Ushakov told reporters on Tuesday. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Russian President Vladimir Putin will receive credentials of new foreign ambassadors to Russia on October 11, presidential aide Yury Ushakov told reporters on Tuesday. "Next week, an international event will take place, the president will receive credentials on [October] 11," Ushakov said. On Monday, Monaco's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Nicola Renzi told Sputnik that the country's first ambassador to Russia would present credentials to the Russian president in Moscow. Credential is a document needed by new ambassadors to perform their duty in foreign countries. Ambassadors send copies of credentials to the foreign ministries of hosting countries while the official ceremony of presenting credentials to the head of state - in case of Russia to the president - takes place once in several months. (@ChaudhryMAli88) The bomb squad of the Russian Armed Forces' International Mine Action Centre will be going to Laos this month to help the country clear out remaining unexploded US bombs from the Laotian Civil War, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Wednesday. KUBINKA (Moscow region) (UrduPoint news / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) The bomb squad of the Russian Armed Forces' International Mine Action Centre will be going to Laos this month to help the country clear out remaining unexploded US bombs from the Laotian Civil War, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Wednesday. The assignment will last from October to March 2019, and will focus on clearing myriads of hard-to-find US bombs that pose a threat to local residents from the Laotian jungle, according to chief of the engineer troops of the Russian Armed Forces Lt. Gen. Yury Stavitsky. "Until now, no one could or did not want to help the Lao. Today it is time to stop the number of these victims [from increasing]. This will be done with the help of sappers of the Russian Armed Forces' International Mine Action Centre. It is also planned to train local deminers and provide them with search and personal protective equipment," Stavitsky said at the eighth meeting of the expert working group of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) defense ministers and the organization's dialogue partners. The Laotian Civil War lasted from 1960 to 1973. The United States took part in the armed conflict and provided support to the government of Laos. (@ChaudhryMAli88) ST. PETERSBURG (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th October, 2018) The Russian gas giant of Gazprom and the Austrian OMV company signed on Wednesday a basic agreement on the sales of assets following the talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, Gazprom said in a statement. "Today, in St. Petersburg, Gazprom CEO Alexey Miller and the head of OMV AV Rainer Seele signed a basic agreement on assets sales," the statement said. In line with the agreement, OMV purchased 24.98 percent stake in the development project at two sites of the Achimov deposits of the Urengoy gas field. "The parties are going to sign the final agreement in early 2019," the statement said. Putin praised the agreement saying that it emphasized the strategic nature of OMV's cooperation with Gazprom. (@FahadShabbir) Saint Petersburg, Oct 3 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th Oct, 2018 ) :Russia's Gazprom and Austria's OMW have signed an agreement on a project to develop the Urengoy gas field in western Siberia, Russian President Vladimir Putin said after talks with Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz in Saint Petersburg Wednesday. The document was signed by Gazprom's chief executive Alexei Miller and OMV's Reiner Seele in front of the two leaders. "I want to note the many years of fruitful cooperation with Austria in the energy field," Putin said. For his part, Kurz praised the "fifty years of gas supplies from Russia." "They have always been stable even in the most difficult times," he said. Gazprom deliveries to Germany and Austria reached a historic high this year, despite EU goals to diversify its energy sources following a series of gas crises between Moscow and Kiev that affected deliveries to Europe. Putin criticised Bulgaria, which he said was forced to abandon the Russia's South Stream pipeline under pressure from Brussels. "Everybody knows the sad fate of the South Stream project," Putin said. "Our Bulgarian colleagues claimed that they would fight to the end for it. But in the end, under pressure from outside, they abandoned it.""We would not like for Europe to look like Bulgaria, which showed weakness," the Russian leader added. Brussels has also been resisting other Russian projects such as TurkStream, a pipeline planned via Turkey, and North Stream 2, via the Baltic Sea, which Gazprom justifies as necessary for the increased European demand in the future. Saudi Arabia's national oil company Saudi Aramco will announce two investment projects worth $500,000 million, which the energy giant is planning to implement jointly with the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), in the coming weeks, Saudi Aramco Senior Vice President Mohammed Qahtani said on Wednesday. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Saudi Arabia's national oil company Saudi Aramco will announce two investment projects worth $500,000 million, which the energy giant is planning to implement jointly with the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), in the coming weeks, Saudi Aramco Senior Vice President Mohammed Qahtani said on Wednesday. "We have an agreement between the Russian public investment fund and the Saudi Arabian public investment fund and also Saudi Aramco. Three entities combined to invest a total of $1 billion in services and energy-related industries. we are about to announce two major investments, almost over half a billion Dollars. It will be announced in the coming few weeks and months. This is a big deal for us and we think that we will solidify our strong relations that we have with Russian people," Qahtani said at the Russian Energy Week (REW) forum. Earlier in the day, RDIF CEO Kirill Dmitriev said that the Russian-Saudi joint energy fund would announce a number of deals with Russia's tech and service companies in the near future. In July 2015, the RDIF and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) signed a partnership agreement to jointly invest in projects in Russia. Under the agreement, the Saudi fund's share of the investment will amount to $10 billion. The Russian Energy Week forum started earlier in the day in Moscow and will continue through Saturday. Rossiya Segodnya International Information Agency is the official media partner of the event. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Wednesday declared an end to more than a year of diplomatic tensions with the Netherlands, saying the two nations remained focused on the future. ANKARA (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Wednesday declared an end to more than a year of diplomatic tensions with the Netherlands, saying the two nations remained focused on the future. "Those days are behind us as we look into the future. Now we want to develop our relationship with the Netherlands focusing on its positive aspects," Cavusoglu said at a press briefing in Ankara. The Turkish top diplomat spoke about the outlooks for boosting bilateral trade up to $15 billion as he stood alongside Dutch Foreign Minister Stef Blok, who is in Ankara on an official visit. Ties between the two nations soured in March 2017 after Dutch authorities barred Cavusoglu from campaigning in the Netherlands ahead of a crucial Turkish vote on broader presidential powers. The Turkish Foreign Ministry responded by stopping the Dutch ambassador from going back to Turkey after a vacation at home. The Netherlands, in turn, recalled its own top diplomat in the country in February 2018. (@ChaudhryMAli88) NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg will visit the Serbian capital of Belgrade on October 6-8 to hold talks with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, the alliance said Wednesday in a statement. BRUSSELS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg will visit the Serbian capital of Belgrade on October 6-8 to hold talks with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, the alliance said Wednesday in a statement. "The NATO Secretary General, Mr. Jens Stoltenberg, will travel to Belgrade from Saturday, 6 October to Monday, 8 October 2018. During the visit, the Secretary General will meet the President of the Republic, H.E. Mr. Aleksandar Vucic as well as the Prime Minister, H.E. Ms. Ana Brnabic," the statement read. The secretary general will also visit the opening ceremony of the civil emergency exercise "SRBIJA 2018," co-organized by the NATO Euro-Atlantic Disaster Response Coordination Centre (EADRCC) and the Serbian Interior Ministry. "On 8 October Mr. Stoltenberg will also deliver a speech at a conference organized by the Belgrade Security Forum. Mr. Stoltenberg will also meet with students at the Faculty of Philology of the University of Belgrade," the statement added. Serbia does not seek NATO membership but joined the Partnership for Peace program and the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council in 2006. SIMFEROPOL (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) Hendrik Weber, the head of the Norwegian delegation which is currently on its six-day visit to Crimea, told Sputnik on Wednesday that the country's mission considered Crimea a legitimate part of Russia. The visit of the Norwegian delegation, comprising public figures, representatives of academia and entrepreneurs, to the peninsula began on Sunday and will last through Saturday. The visit's agenda includes numerous meetings and trips around the peninsula. "[Our] position is clear and explicit. We consider Crimea a legitimate part of the Russian Federation," Weber stated. He added, at the same time, that the Norwegian authorities maintained the position doubting the legitimacy of the referendum on Crimea's rejoining Russia. "But the situation is changing. Now many politicians, we believe, do realize what actually happened in 2014," Weber said. Weber also criticized sanctions imposed on Russia in connection to Crimea's reunification with the country, pointing at their negative effect for the European countries. "In my opinion, the sanctions do not make any sense and we should lift them immediately. European countries suffer from the sanctions themselves. This damages employment, companies, other fields are affected as well," Weber indicated. He stressed that the decision on anti-Russian restrictions was political in its nature and was likely to have been taken in Washington. Crimea rejoined Russia in 2014, when 97 percent of the peninsula's residents voted in favor of the move in a referendum. Despite this, the reunification was not recognized by the majority of the Western countries, including EU member states, which subsequently imposed economic and political sanctions on Moscow. Russian authorities have repeatedly stated that the Crimean residents decided to rejoin Russia following a democratic procedure. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that the issue of Crimea's territorial belonging was "historically closed." (@rukhshanmir) US forces killed nine al-Shabab members in an airstrike near the southeastern Somali city of Kismayo after the militants launched an attack on government forces, US Africa Command (AFRICOM) said in a press release on Tuesday. WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 02nd October, 2018) US forces killed nine al-Shabab members in an airstrike near the southeastern Somali city of Kismayo after the militants launched an attack on government forces, US Africa Command (AFRICOM) said in a press release on Tuesday. "In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, US forces conducted an airstrike after al-Shabaab militants attacked Somalian Government forces approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Kismayo, Somalia on October 1, 2018," the release said. "We currently assess nine (9) militants were killed in the strike." WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th October, 2018) A Honduran citizen living in the United States has been jailed for almost four years after being convicted of a scheme to launder $1.3 million illegally gained in bribe payments in his home country, the US Department of Justice said in a news release. "A Honduran man was sentenced in Federal court today to 46 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to launder into the United States more than $1.3 million in foreign bribe payments and public funds from the Republic of Honduras," the release said on Wednesday. On June 27, Carlos Zelaya, 47, a Honduran living in the New Orleans area, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, the Justice department said. Zelaya agreed to forfeit his interest in over $1 million in real estate obtained through the scheme as part of his plea, the release noted. According to admissions made in the plea agreement, Zelaya conspired with his brother, the former Executive Director of the Honduran Institute of Social Security, and others to launder over $1.3 million in bribe payments, the release also said. The bribes were paid by two Honduran businessmen for the benefit of Zelaya's brother and were then laundered into the New Orleans area through international wire transfers and used to purchase real estate, according to the release. (@FahadShabbir) WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) US Envoy to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison clarified on Tuesday that she did not intend to threaten a preemptive military attack on Russia when she said earlier in the day that the United States could one day "take out" Russian missile systems that allegedly violate the Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. "I was not talking about preemptively striking Russia. My point: Russia needs to return to INF Treaty compliance or we will need to match its capabilities to protect US & NATO interests. The current situation, with Russia in blatant violation, is untenable," Hutchison said in a Twitter post. During a press conference earlier on Tuesday, Hutchison said the US could employ countermeasures to "take out" missiles that Russia is allegedly developing. The 1987 INF Treaty prohibits the development, deployment and testing of ground-launched ballistic or cruise missiles with ranges between 300 and 3,400 miles. The United States and Russia have repeatedly accused each other of violating the treaty. "We are not moving in that direction right now, but we are trying to tell Russia. .. that we know they have violated the treaty and we are beginning the research capabilities that are allowed by the treaty to deter a medium-range ballistic missile. So I think they are on notice," Hutchison said during the press conference earlier on Tuesday. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Hutchison should realize the danger of her aggressive rhetoric. Earlier on Tuesday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg called on Russian to be more transparent and explain its alleged violations of the INF Treaty. Stoltenberg said the United States has shared information with NATO that Moscow started deploying ground-based cruise missiles 9M729 (NATO designation SSC-8) allegedly in violation of the INF treaty. Russia's Foreign Ministry has said that the 9M729 missiles correspond to Russia's obligations under the INF Treaty and have not been upgraded and tested for the prohibited range. Moscow pointed out that the United States has provided no proof that Russia has in fact violated the treaty by deploying the missiles. In May, US President Donald Trump issued a memo ordering State Secretary Mike Pompeo to propose sanctions on Russia in response to alleged violations of the INF Treaty. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, commenting on the matter, said that Russia had never violated the treaty, adheres to its obligations and intends to continue doing so. (@FahadShabbir) An exhibition dedicated to rebuilding Syria opened in Damascus on Tuesday, immediately drawing attention of diplomats from Venezuela, Indonesia and South Africa, who told Sputnik their countries wanted to participate. DAMASCUS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) An exhibition dedicated to rebuilding Syria opened in Damascus on Tuesday, immediately drawing attention of diplomats from Venezuela, Indonesia and South Africa, who told Sputnik their countries wanted to participate. The fourth edition of Rebuild Syria expo will run through Saturday. Organizers have estimated 270 companies from 29 countries, including Russia, are taking part in the annual infrastructure show. Venezuela's ambassador to Syria, Imad Saab, said that the South American nation was attending the exhibition out of solidarity with the Syrian people. "Several contracts were agreed on between Syrian and Venezuelan businesses at previous exhibitions and we hope to succeed in this at this year's exhibition, both in private and public sectors. This is a mutually beneficial cooperation, because it increases bilateral trade turnover," he told Sputnik. The diplomat also said that several Venezuelan companies wanted to invest in Syria and enter the Syrian market. "Several Venezuelan companies asked for permission to explore opportunities for investment in the Syrian market, specifically deals to restore oil production facilities. Today we also received several invitations by the Syrian side to participate in the restoration of roads and bridges," he said. Imad Saab noted that Syrian authorities offered Venezuelan firms an array of incentives enjoyed in the country by Russian and Iranian companies. "Competition with Russian and Iranian companies is impossible, as these countries have been here since the outbreak of the Syrian crisis. They have extensive economic and military ties ... Besides, the Russian economy is much bigger than that of Venezuela, so we cannot talk about competition between what Venezuelan producers can provide and what Russian companies produce. On the contrary, we aim to complement each other in a mutually beneficial way," he said. INDONESIA: HOUSES, TRAINS, PLANES Indonesia has made it a goal to participate in every exhibition in Damascus, Ahl Ad-Din Jamal, an attache in charge of economy and trade at the Indonesian Embassy in Syria, told Sputnik. Jamal said that several Indonesian companies had showed interest in helping restore Syrian infrastructure. Among them is engineering and construction company WIKA (Wijaya Karya), railway firm INKA (Industri Kereta Api), and aircraft manufacturer PT Nurtanio. "A WIKA official met with Syrian officials last year. The company wants to participate in the restoration of Syria. All agreements were verbal and no contracts followed. But we hope that WIKA and other companies will be able to invest in Syria, a goal we are working toward," Jamal added. He said the Indonesian diplomatic mission saw no obstacles in communication with Syrian companies throughout all seven years of the war, during which it had a full staff working in the country. The diplomat said there was no rivalry with Russian or Iranian companies, because there was no official cooperation between Syrian companies and Indonesian authorities. Separately, the Syrian Transport Ministry had expressed interest in buying Indonesian aircraft, Jamal added. SOUTH AFRICA: GOOD RELATIONSHIP The first secretary of South Africa's embassy in Syria, Solomzi Mhlana, told Sputnik that the diplomatic mission was participating in the Rebuild Syria expo for the second time. "We also want to contribute to the Rebuild Syria, which we think is a noble cause," Mhlana said. He noted that South African companies had not entered into contracts with the Syrian authorities due to absence of bilateral agreements between the two nations. "One [needs to] establish bilateral agreements first, like trade agreements. Once those are in place you can then move further to trade agreements between companies and so forth," Mhlana explained. He ruled out a possible competition between South African businesses and those of other countries, saying there was enough work for everybody. "Different companies from different countries come with a different experience, technology and expertise so there will always be a niche for each and every country," the diplomat said. Mhlana added that Syrian authorities were open to working with the South African embassy and firms and denied any problems in cooperation. The embassy, he said, did not evacuate from Syria during the conflict. "We've been here throughout the conflict, so you can imagine the type of relationship that we have," Mhlana said. (@ChaudhryMAli88) La Paz, Oct 2 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2018 ) :Bolivia's President Evo Morales lashed out Tuesday as a "biased" International Court of Justice ruling that rejected La Paz's demand for access to the sea from neighbor Chile. Morales told reporters in La Paz that he would personally send a letter to the court "showing the contradictions" in the court's verdict "which did not give justice to Bolivia." Morales -- who petitioned the world court in 2013 to oblige Chile to give landlocked Bolivia a land corridor to the Pacific -- attended the reading of the court verdict in The Hague. Bolivia lost 400 kilometers (250 miles) of coastline in a 1879-1883 war with Chile. Ever since, Santiago has rejected every attempt by its smaller and poorer neighbor to win it back. The issue has long been a strain on relations between the two South American countries. Morales told reporters on his return from The Hague that the court "knows very well where this injustice comes from: the invasion of Bolivian territory.""It is not possible for the court to benefit invaders," the firebrand leftist leader said. Morales -- who has been in power since 2006 -- also announced he would send a letter of protest to the United Nations so that world opinion would be aware of the injustice suffered by Bolivia. The University of Texas at Arlington and the Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia Division signed a formal Education Partnership Agreement recently that will enhance research and education at UTA through interactions with NSWCPD personnel and sharing scientific, engineering and technological assets. David Wetz, UTA electrical engineering professor In addition to the sharing of assets, NSWCPD researchers can involve UTA faculty and students in U.S. Navy research projects, loan equipment to the University for educational purposes, and potentially develop and teach science and engineering courses at UTA. The agreement, which is NSWCPDs first with a university outside the greater Philadelphia area, came about in part because of collaborative research projects, ongoing since 2011, with David Wetz, a professor in UTAs Department of Electrical Engineering who specializes in energy storage and pulsed power system design and has been involved in extensive research involving battery power and other shipboard energy needs. Wetz and NSWCPD engineer John Heinzel already have begun expanding power and energy research at UTA by creating a multi-disciplinary team to address the technical challenges in this area. The agreement will allow the institutions to develop more collaborations across the full spectrum of naval machinery technology. This agreement opens the door for Navy researchers to use the UTA facilities that they are investing so heavily in, contributing to research and education while allowing our students to gain advanced training in this area before joining Navy labs themselves, Wetz said. Because we are able to work so quickly in installing, testing and training on equipment, we can help the Navy learn about new technologies that they themselves are considering long before they can procure and evaluate them within their own laboratories. Once in place, their personnel and our students are trained on the same type of equipment, preparing them to use it immediately. Wetz received an Office of Naval Research Young Investigator Award and was an ONR Summer Faculty Fellow at the Philadelphia Division. Several of his students also have worked at the NWSCPD through the Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program. I am very pleased with the opportunity afforded us through this agreement. Our relationship with the Navy will be strengthened, and our students will benefit because of our ability to expose them to advanced technologies before they enter the workforce, said Peter Crouch, dean of the College of Engineering. NSWCPD provides the Navys primary technical expertise for naval machinery research and development, in-service engineering and machinery cybersecurity. It also has Education Partnership Agreements with Villanova University, Drexel University and Morgan State University. Im pleased to be signing another important Education Partnership Agreement, said Capt. Francis Spencer, NSWCPD commanding officer. This is the first partnership outside our area, which is a testament to the value UTA brings to the table. The Educational Partnership Agreement is an example of UTAs commitment to transforming the student experience by enhancing access and ensuring success, engaging in high-impact research and scholarship, and strengthening collaboration with corporate and nonprofit sectors, as outlined in UTAs Strategic Plan 2020: Bold Solutions | Global Impact, said Duane Dimos, the Universitys vice president for research. We are thrilled to be involved with NSWCPD. Our partnership is continually evolving, and this agreement underscores the desire of both parties to provide pathways to more research collaboration and greater educational opportunities for our faculty and students. We look forward to seeing where it leads, Dimos said. -- Written by Jeremy Agor Parts of this release came from Matthew J. Leonard, NSWCPD news release I was very impressed, but not just with what Chuck did, but more importantly with the support we got from other communities with CERT certification, he said. South Korean Cardinal Yeom Soo-jung, Archbishop of Seoul has expressed his condolence for victims of Indonesia's disaster and donated $50,000 in aid. By Robin Gomes South Korean Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung, Archbishop of Seoul, on Tuesday expressed the condolence and closeness of his faithful for the dead and survivors of Indonesias natural disaster in Central Sulawesi province. A 7.4 magnitude earthquake and a devastating tsunami it triggered hit the western coastal region of the province on Friday, killing 1,407 people as of Wednesday, according to Indonesias National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The agency said the death toll is likely to increase as rescue teams reach out to remote areas. Thousands are injured and more than 70,000 are displaced. Condolences and prayer I am deeply saddened by the news that so many were deceased, injured, and affected by the deadly earthquake and tsunami which struck Indonesian Island of Sulawesi, wrote Cardinal Yeom in a message to the Bishops Conference of Indonesia (KWI). He said he was praying for the eternal rest on the deceased and Gods consolation and blessing for those who suddenly lost their beloved family. I, as well as all priests and faithful in Archdiocese of Seoul will pray for all people of Indonesia to get over the tragic disaster and get back to the daily life as soon as possible, he wrote. Cardinal Yeom hoped that the victims can promptly receive necessary supports and aids, and prayed that Gods mercy may save all those suffering from the disaster from unimaginable grief and pain. Fund As a token of the Archdioceses closeness for the affected people, the Cardinal has donated a sum of $ $50,000 in emergency relief funds to the Indonesian Churchs relief efforts for the survivors. The One Body One Spirit (OBOS) movement of Seoul Archdiocese will channel the fund through Caritas Internationalis. OBOS has already been raising funds in support of the Indonesian Churchs efforts in the Island of Lombok that was hit by an earthquake in July. The Archdiocese said funds collected in each parish are also being sent to the Indonesian Church. New volcano eruption As aid was trickling into the areas hit by the twin disasters, a volcano, about 940 kilometers further north in the same island, erupted on Wednesday. Mount Soputan, located in the Southeast Minahasa District of North Sulawesi province, erupted spitting a plume of ash and smoke more than 6,000 meters into the sky. No evacuations were immediately ordered. A standby status was issued regarding the volcano, meaning the public should avoid the area nearest the volcano and have masks available in the event of ash fall. Vegas PBS announced today that Mary Ann Esposito celebrated American chef, cookbook writer and host of the longest-running television cooking program in the U.S., Ciao Italia with Mary Ann Esposito will host a live cooking demonstration and luncheon in Las Vegas on November 8, 2018, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Northwest Career and Technical Academy (NWCTA). Guests will meet Esposito and sample her pasta dishes. Espositos recipes will be prepared by students of the NWCTA magnet school under her guidance. Donate to Vegas PBS to reserve tickets now at VegasPBS.org/tickets or by calling 702.737.7500. Tickets can be secured for $60 for the luncheon or $99 for the luncheon plus an autographed copy of Espositos latest cookbook, Ciao Italia: My Lifelong Food Adventure in Italy. Guests become Vegas PBS members with their donation. BASF is planning to boost its community support programmes in Vietnam Vietnam is celebrating 30 years of foreign direct investment (FDI). As an international company, what is your comment on this occasion? Vietnam has achieved enormous growth over the last few decades since it began its open-door policy and transformed into one of the fastest growing countries in the region. The local market, especially in the major cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, is getting more sophisticated and driving consumer demand for a higher quality of nutrition, healthcare, housing, mobility, environmental protection, and renewable energy. Vietnam has also gained growing popularity and business prospects with a collection of trade pacts that are about to be signed with important markets like the EU. In addition, the labour force has become ever more skilful and competitive with a can-do spirit, contributing remarkably to the dynamic economy. The Vietnamese-German relationship has been progressing steadily. What impact does this have on BASFs operations in Vietnam? Vietnam and Germany have enjoyed a long-standing relationship and have a great deal to offer each other. The Made in Germany brand and German technology are well regarded by the domestic market. In addition, the Vietnamese government is gearing up to attract high-tech and environmentally friendly projects to keep up the strong momentum of FDI. With world-class innovations across industry value chains and a diverse portfolio of sustainable products and solutions, BASF can support Vietnams strong economic growth well. As the worlds leading chemical company, we enable our customers in almost all industries to meet the current and future needs of society through science and innovation. Could you shed some light on BASFs operations in Vietnam so far? BASF has been active in Vietnam since the establishment of our representative office in Ho Chi Minh City back in 1994. Two years later, due to the rapid increase in business, another representative office was established in Hanoi. In 2009, BASF Vietnam Ltd., a wholly owned foreign company, was set up to exploit new growth opportunities in Vietnam, a key market for BASF in the ASEAN. In 2016, we opened our second chemical plant in northern Vietnam, complementing the existing plant in the southern region to expand BASFs manufacturing footprint in Vietnam and support the rapid growth of the construction market. Our company provides a wide range of products, including plastics, petrochemicals, construction chemicals, fine chemicals, performance chemicals, paper chemicals, and agriculture solutions, among others. BASF sales to customers in Vietnam were about 328 million ($385.42 million) in 2017. BASF employed 161 people in Vietnam as of the end of 2017. What are BASFs key focus areas in Vietnam? Vietnam is one of the worlds fastest-growing markets. This also means greater economic development and sustainability challenges, including air pollution, food safety, and energy efficiency. Helping our customers and the society to address these challenges is one of our major focus areas in Vietnam. For example, our agricultural solutions help crops tolerate droughts and lack of irrigation water, while maximising nutrition absorption and stress tolerance, thereby improving crop quality and productivity. We offer comprehensive solutions ranging from low-odour paint ingredients to construction chemicals and polyurethane insulation panels that make buildings more durable and energy-efficient, all the while lowering the impact on the environment and human health as well as optimising investments for developers and contractors alike. A focus on high-tech investment and added value is the centre of the new strategy, Photo: Le Toan Adam Sitkoff has been living in Vietnam for many years and has witnessed the strong inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) into Vietnam over the past decades. As the executive director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hanoi (AmCham Hanoi), Sitkoff acts as a bridge between US investors and the Vietnamese market, which he sees has great potential, both for high growth and for FDI attraction. Business activity here started slowly for Americans. In 1995, US-Vietnam trade stood at just $451 million. It will soon hit $60 billion and we now see US investors active in almost every sector of the Vietnamese economy. American companies have invested billions of dollars here, integrating Vietnam into the global supply chain, creating high-quality jobs, and helping the country become more productive, more efficient, safer, and cleaner, Sitkoff told VIR. According to him, it is important to know that while Vietnams official investment statistics rank the US not in the top 10, the truth is that the US is one of the biggest investors in Vietnam. The misunderstanding comes from complicated US tax laws and corporate structures that utilise global supply chains and systems. For example, Intels $1-billion assembly facility in Saigon Hi-Tech Park is an investment made through Intel Hong Kong so this counts as a Hong Kong investment, even though Intel is an American company, Sitkoff said. Another example is P&Gs $100-million factory in Binh Duong, which is an investment made through P&G Singapore so this counts as a Singaporean investment, even though P&G is a famous American company. There are many examples like this. We believe the United States is one of the top five investors here, and Americans are in Vietnam selling cosmetics, soft drinks and beer, cars, aircrafts, software, industrial goods, educational services, mobile applications, financial and legal services, agricultural products, and so much more. Industry 4.0 to lure in FDI According to World Bank experts in Vietnam, the country is a success story in attracting FDI not only from the US, but from all over the world. In 2016, FDI to Vietnam exceeded inflows into all other ASEAN economies except for Singapore. As a percentage of GDP, Vietnams FDI inflows already exceed those into China or India, and all large ASEAN members except Malaysia. Not content with outperforming most of its regional competitors, 2017 brought Vietnam another record year, with FDI disbursement reaching $17.5 billion. Data from the Ministry of Planning and Investment showed that registered FDI commitments in Vietnam also nearly doubled over the past four years, from $20 billion in 2014 to nearly $36 billion in 2017. As of September 20, Vietnam had 26,646 valid FDI projects registered at over $334 billion. In the first nine months of this year, Vietnam attracted 2,182 new foreign-invested projects registered at $14.12 billion. Disbursement hit $13.25 billion, up 6 per cent on-year. According to the latest figures from Vietnams General Statistics Office, foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) have been performing well in Vietnam over the past years. Specifically, in 2016, their return on sales hit 6.7 per cent, far higher than the average 4 per cent of all enterprises in the economy. FIEs return on assets reached 6.9 per cent, much higher than the average 2.7 per cent of all enterprises in the economy. Also in 2016, FIEs net revenue rose the highest, by 34.5 per cent against 2011, accounting for 27.4 per cent of all enterprises total net revenue. In addition, though the number of FIEs made up only 0.5 per cent of all enterprises in the economy, they held 28.4 per cent of capital. However, according to Nguyen Mai, chairman of the Vietnam Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises, despite its major FDI achievements, Vietnam always wishes to attract more US investment, like the Intel or P&G projects that Sitkoff mentioned. This is because these projects are considered high-quality investments, especially as Vietnam is entering the 4.0 era, which creates immense opportunities for the country to change its mindset in FDI attraction and lure global-level investments. Vietnam should focus on attracting FDI in high-tech sectors that generate high added value, such as IT, electronics, Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence, as well as virtual reality, augmented reality, cloud computing, and Big Data, along with automation, new materials, education, research and development, and healthcare, Mai said. It is critical to say no to polluting projects. It has been 30 years since the Law on Foreign Investment was issued in December 1987. FIEs have become an important part of the Vietnamese economy, although some also caused problems, including environmental pollution, outdated technologies, transfer pricing, and technology transfers below expectations. According to Dezan Shira and Associates, Asias largest independent FDI practice, Industry 4.0 is offering numerous opportunities for Vietnam to attract more FDI, especially high-quality investments. Investors will continue to find traditional export-oriented sectors such as electronics, garments, and footwear attractive. In addition to the export-oriented sectors, the domestic market also provides an opportunity for investors, said the firm in a recently released bulletin. With growing urbanisation and rising incomes, industries such as education, real estate, retail, food and beverages, e-commerce, and fast-moving consumer goods will continue to grow in 2018, the bulletin said. The aforementioned industries will continue to be a priority for the government in the short term. For the long term, the government is shifting its focus to high-tech and environmentally friendly investments and projects such as renewable energy and high-tech agriculture, it said. Recently, with the assistance of the World Bank, Vietnams Ministry of Planning and Investment drafted its FDI strategy for 2018-2023, focusing on priority sectors and the quality of investments rather than quantity. The draft aims to incentivise and make it easier for investors to focus on high-tech industries. The initial focus is on four major sectors, namely manufacturing, services, agriculture, and tourism. To-do lists Experts from the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) an arm of the World Bank focused exclusively on private sector development have proposed that in order to attract more high-quality FDI, Vietnam should do many things, including the implementation of a major skills supply push to enable next-generation FDI. Specifically, the experts told VIR that across sectors, investors cite the lack of industry-ready skills (technical, language, and soft skills) as the greatest barrier to growth. This obstacle is already driving up wage growth. In many sectors, the size of the skills gap is not even known due to insufficient data. Skills supply is arguably one of the most critical impediments in remaining competitive and luring next-generation FDI. Many actions can be taken to reverse this prospect, and they include: (i) launching and regularly updating a national survey of supply and demand by discipline; (ii) launching a co-ordinated national programme combining everything from short-term vocational training courses, enhanced industry-academia linkages, and skills-based visas, to long-term curricula reforms and FDI in the education sector by leading global institutions; and (iii) fostering innovation as well as skills, through attracting talent, entrepreneurs, and diaspora from abroad with know-how, ideas, and skills. The experts also suggested that the government introduce Investment Climate 4.0 commensurate with business needs in the digital age. Industry 4.0 needs a business environment 4.0. Ideally, this environment should be ambitious, moving from playing catch-up towards offering a superior investment climate and operating experiences compared to competing locations in the region, Sebastian Eckardt, the World Banks lead economist for Vietnam, told VIR. Outdated paper-based regulations and systems should be replaced with digital/online solutions, and outdated positive lists required to qualify for licences/incentives replaced with broad categories of preferred/permitted activities with more limited negative lists. Let us also remove implicit preferences for export-oriented and greenfield FDI as joint ventures. FDI in local supply chains tends to have greater impacts on local value addition and tech transfers, Eckardtsaid. According to Sitkoff of AmCham Hanoi, in order for Vietnam to attract higher-quality FDI amid the 4.0 era, the government would need to change its mindset in policy making. We live in a competitive world. Right now, almost every country in the region is working to grow a modern, digital economy, which will attract future investment and high-paying jobs for their people, Sitkoff said. Vietnamese and foreign-invested businesses alike need a supportive environment to thrive, and as you well know, that means their relationship with the administrative agencies should be mutually supportive. In his view, US investors remain optimistic about business prospects in Vietnam. However, they remain concerned about recent changes in policy and regulations, which are not consistent with international best practices. These changes expose many investors to considerable risks and obstacles in executing their investments. We believe that it is vital that laws and rules be designed to be enforced fairly and equally. Better results in this area will improve investor confidence. Vietnam is a land of great opportunity for foreign investors, Sitkoff said. FDI flows remain strong in real estate, illustration photo According to Minister of Construction Tran Hong Ha, the real estate sector in Vietnam commands special attention among foreign investors. So far, Vietnam has attracted 26,646 projects with the total investment capital of more than $334 billion from 129 countries and territories, with the real estate sector consistently attracting the second-largest portion among the Vietnamese economic sectors. The government has been highly appreciative of foreign investment and has been working to create more favourable conditions for them to invest in Vietnam, Ha said at a recent international conference on real estate investment in Vietnam in Hanoi. Khanh Nguyen, associate director of the Capital Markets Division of JLL Vietnam, said that over the past 10 years, despite the ups and downs of the Vietnamese economy and the real estate market, foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows remained stable. According to the Foreign Investment Agency (FIA) under the Ministry of Planning and Investment, between January and September 20 this year, FDI capital in the manufacturing and processing sector jumped to $11.3 billion, representing 44.6 per cent of the countrys total registered FDI. Real estate was the second-most heavily invested sector with $5.8 billion, or 23 per cent of the total registered capital, followed by retail and wholesale with $2.1 billion or 8.3 per cent. Over the years, FDI inflows into the real estate sector consistently ranked second, trailing manufacturing. According to Khanh, Vietnams strong and stable growth performance over the past decade has been attracting foreign investors, especially those from Asia such as Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and China. Their market share accounted for 73.9 per cent of total FDI, followed by EU member states with 15.2 per cent. Most investors from the EU invest in fields like design, electronics, home appliances, and furniture. However, with the need to expand their footprint in Vietnam, these European companies have also been looking to ramp up investment in commercial real estate through acquiring buildings for their headquarters or showrooms in non-central business district areas. US investors are also key players in Vietnam as they ranked third in FDI capital. Although there is no country-based breakdown of real estate FDI, it can be seen that there has been increasing interest from private equity firms, Khanh said. One of the most notable US investors is New York-based private equity Warburg Pincus, which has committed over $1 billion in Vietnam, the majority of which was allocated to set up real estate platforms including retail, hotel, industrial, and logistics properties. Matthew Powell, director of Savills Hanoi, said that the real estate sector has always been attracting foreign investment flows. In the first half of this year, we saw strong investment from foreigners in residential areas, while another strong wave of investment will also reach the industrial real estate segment, which is now at its peak in Vietnam. Other attractive segments should be offices for lease, hotels and hospitality, and retail properties, Powell said. The Vietnamese real estate market has been more attractive than neighbouring markets like Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, and China both in potential and yield, and leads us to believe foreign investment flows will remain high in the coming time, with expanded types of asset and segments, he added. According to Dexter See, ASEAN managing director of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the Vietnamese real estate market is one of the hottest markets in the region. Along with Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, Vietnam is one of the top priorities for foreign investors in infrastructure and real estate development, due to the high demand and the potential for higher yields compared to other countries, See told VIR. Vietnam, according to See, is now a destination for many developers and investors from Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, and especially Japan and China, which have recently emerged as top developers on the Vietnamese real estate market. A highlight was Japan-based Sumitomo Corporation, along with other local partners such as BRG Group, which received approval from the Hanoi Peoples Committee to develop a $4 billion smart city project in the capitals Dong Anh district. Lotte also pledged to invest $600 million in a high-end, international-standard complex in Hanoi, including shopping centres, offices, and hotels. Foreign investment flows into the Vietnamese real estate market are also becoming increasingly diversified, with different types of transactions, such as joint ventures, and mergers and acquisitions transactions. Among the most prominent cases was the Singaporean sovereign wealth fund GIC announcing its investment of about $1.3 billion into leading Vietnamese property developer Vingroup and the related entities for its real estate arm. Similarly, Warburg Pincus and Becamex IDC Corporation, one of the largest industrial real estate developers in Vietnam, announced the launch of their joint venture BW Industrial Development JSC. As billions of dollars of foreign capital are poised to enter the Vietnamese real estate market, the sector is expected to continue stabilising and growing in the coming time. The relics which are thousands of years old will be catalogued, added to its collection and eventually become part of an exhibit at the districts Isle ala Cache Museum in Romeoville, said Schultz, who did a brief show and tell with commissioners during Wednesdays committee meetings. The government is set to hold the conference on 30 years of FDI attraction in Vietnam. What are the main topics on the agenda? The event aims to review and assess the contributions of FDI to the Vietnamese economy over the past 30 years. Making a clear assessment is very important, because these 30 years of FDI are closely linked to the countrys reforms and international economic integration and a clear view is essential for the attraction of further investment capital. Such an assessment would also affirm the policy of the Party and the government on economic reforms, international integration, and FDI attraction. Overall, I believe the policy has been very timely, correct, and extremely important, as it has created a turning point for the economy and the national development. However, in addition to achievements, there have been some limitations to FDI which lead to concerns. Thus, we also have to look at the inefficiencies in FDI attraction, to discover the limitations and their causes. Do the causes are in the institutional and policy framework or in the process of organising and implementing the policies? Is it our capacity or are our management activities ineffective? Besides, do the causes are in some investors who have intentionally broken the law? When we have successfully identified the causes, we will be able to come up with sound solutions to remove obstructions in FDI attraction. Thus, this conference will be a good opportunity for us to get a clear view on all achievements, results, and limitations to be able to take effective measures to improve the quality of FDI attracted in the time to come. This is an important issue. However, more importantly, we can use these results to determine the new role that FDI will play in the Vietnamese economy, to better fit the rapidly changing domestic and global environment. Could you elaborate on the role of FDI in the economy in the time to come? The Party and the government will continue to see FDI as an important part of the Vietnamese economy and doubtless it will continue making important contributions. We do affirm that we will continue attracting FDI and using it effectively in a new strategy and a new direction, so that this source of investment capital can match effectively with our new FDI attraction policy, and bring in the best results for the economy without causing the negative effects that have been experienced over the past three decades. It is imperative to find new orientations for FDI. We will have to attract investment capital more selectively and with a clear focus, in line with the countrys new development trends. For example, FDI will have to be closely linked with the countrys reforms and economic restructuring, and especially with the Fourth Industrial Revolution. In addition, FDI will have to create connectivity between foreign and Vietnamese enterprises as well as regions and economic sectors. FDI will also have to support the economys sustainable development and green growth. We will have to concentrate on attracting more high-technology and environmentally friendly technology which can help save energy and natural resources. Besides, we will also have to lure in more large foreign groups and new large-scale projects which can have major spillover effects on the whole economy. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is knocking the doors of Vietnam. What changes are necessary to make the countrys FDI attraction match this revolution? It can be said that Industry 4.0 offers major opportunities for the Vietnamese economy, and we must seize them effectively to further the countrys development, otherwise we will fall behind others. But the ultilisation of these opportunities must be linked with FDI attraction, and vice versa, FDI attraction must be conducted based on 4.0 foundations, in a manner that draws in new technologies as well as new investment and business formats. While in the past years we have focused on expanding traditional investment and business methods, non-traditional investment and business methods have appeared, such as the sharing economy. Thus, we have to continuously improve our legal, infrastructure, and institutional framework in favour of investors and the business community. This is also an impetus for domestic enterprises to improve themselves and develop Industry 4.0 capabilities. What key messages will the conference send to foreign investors? First, we would like to thank foreign investors for their remarkable contributions to the Vietnamese economy through their investment projects. True, investors primary aim is to find profitable business and investment opportunities, but what we have today the transformed urban, rural, industrial, and service landscape throughout the entire country has partly come from foreign-invested enterprises contributions. I would also like to add that currently Vietnam has the most favourable conditions for investors and businesses, as can be seen in the positive assessments from international organisations, justifying the governments great efforts. The Vietnamese market is larger than ever, and its political stability is applauded across the globe. Vietnam is now party to many free trade agreements with a very large network of markets around the world. Besides, significant improvements have been seen in the countrys status and prestige in the international arena as well as in its infrastructure, human resources, and institutions. All of these factors make for a greatly favourable environment for investors and businesses looking for investment destinations. This is the right time for foreign investors to come to Vietnam and settle down for the long haul there is tremendous potential to grow along with Vietnam. Ahead of Tuesday's appeal ruling, the painting has been kept locked up by the Musee d'Orsay, seen here, and Orangerie museums AFP/JOEL SAGET Bruce and Robbi Toll, wealthy art collectors, bought the painting "La Cueillette" ("Picking Peas") by Impressionist master Camille Pissarro in 1995. They say they did not know it had been seized from Jewish collector Simon Bauer in 1943 by the anti-Semitic wartime French government which collaborated with the Nazis. But in November, a French court ruled that Bauer's descendants were the rightful owners of the painting, which the Tolls bought at Christie's in New York for US$800,000. The verdict mirrors other legal disputes over art and property looted from Jewish owners by the Nazis which were subsequently sold on to often unsuspecting new owners. Bauer was dispossessed of 93 paintings in 1943 by the anti-Semitic wartime French government. The wealthy businessman narrowly escaped death when a train drivers' strike stopped him from being sent to a concentration camp. Bauer recovered a few of his paintings after the war, but never La Cueillette, which Pissarro had painted in gouache in 1887. "BOUGHT IN GOOD FAITH" Bauer died in 1947, two years after the end of World War II. His family spotted an opportunity to get the Pissarro painting back when it went on display at the Marmottan museum in Paris last year during a retrospective of the artist's work. They argued in court that the Tolls, experienced collectors who made their fortune in real estate, must have known the painting was on a list of looted artworks. But the couple, who are patrons of the Washington and Tel Aviv Holocaust museums, insisted they had no idea it had been seized from Bauer. The court accepted their argument that they bought it in good faith. "It is not Mr Toll, who bought this painting at public auction in 1995, who should pay for the crimes of Vichy," their lawyer Ron Soffer said in November, referring to France's puppet regime under the Nazis. Ahead of Tuesday's appeal ruling the painting has been kept locked up by the Musee d'Orsay and Orangerie museums. Out of 650,000 pieces of art stolen by the Nazis, about 100,000 had not been returned by 2009, according to figures released at the Holocaust Era Assets Conference held in the Czech Republic that year. A government decree announced Tuesday that France would boost the powers of the commission which awards compensation to victims of Nazi looting during World War II. The move, promised by Prime Minister Edouard Philippe over the summer, means the Commission for Compensating Looting Victims (CIVS) will now be able to launch an investigation on an individual's request and recommend appropriate compensation. This includes artworks that have made their way into public collections or national museums, according to the decree published in the national gazette. In 2011 a raid on a rubbish-strewn flat in Munich uncovered hundreds of priceless paintings, including works by Picasso and Matisse, that had been stolen by the Nazis. The flat belonged to Cornelius Gurlitt, an octogenarian whose father was one of four art dealers tasked by the Nazis with selling the art. An additional 239 works were found at a house he owned in Salzburg, Austria. Grab has officially launched its on-demand food delivery in Hanoi With the official launch of GrabFood on October 2, Hanoi has become the second city in Vietnam to receive the wide range of Grabs consumer services, including on-demand transport (GrabTaxi, GrabCar, GrabBike), parcel delivery (GrabExpress), and food delivery (GrabFood) through one mobile app. GrabFood is a natural extension of our transport offerings. Vietnamese consumers are excited to try new things and will choose a food delivery platform that offers the most dependable services, providing the widest range of food offerings with best value-for-money and fastest speed of delivery. GrabFood meets the needs of consumers, while at the same time enabling better income and revenue opportunities for our delivery and merchant partners in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, especially those with shops or stalls located in more remote areas, said Jerry Lim, country head of Grab in Vietnam. Since its launch in Vietnam, GrabFood has received positive feedback from consumers, driver-partners, and merchant-partners. In Ho Chi Minh City, GrabFood was beta tested on May 10, 2018 and officially launched in June, 2018. It has since achieved impressive month-on-month growth. In September 2018, delivery orders of GrabFood grew by 2.3 times compared to the previous month. Regarding Hanoi, GrabFood was beta tested on September 5, 2018. After less than a month, the number of merchant-partners increased by eight times. The average delivery time of every GrabFood order in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi is only 25 minutes. In September 2018, the average monthly income of GrabBike driver-partners in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi grew by 20 per cent compared to the previous month, thanks to additional income opportunities from delivering food and parcels, on top of taking rides. Jerry Lim, country head of Grab in Vietnam At the official launch in Hanoi, GrabFood also introduced attractive promotional programmes such as Happy Snack Time from 2 PM to 5 PM, Tuesday to Friday. Hanoian consumers can now have a taste of the most famous local delights, such as Dinh Liet snail, Lake Sides sweet and sour salad, Huyen Alleys rib congee, and Tam Thuong fried rollsall delivered quickly and directly to consumers homes or offices in just a few taps. With no minimum order required, consumers can order from a wide selection of cuisine available, enjoying the convenience of having their favourite food delivered right to their doorsteps within 25 minutes on average. Additionally, with the programme named Newest creation from your favourite local merchants in cooperation with strategic partners, customers in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi can enjoy food and beverage selections exclusively available on the GrabFood platform, for example, Tam bao doan vien and Uyen uong vong nguyet from Gong Cha [two kinds of milk tea], said Demi Yu, Regional Head of GrabFood Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Numerous key opinion leaders joined the launching ceremony GrabFood is the next step toward creating an everyday superapp that every consumer can rely on GrabFood is the next major step in our path towards becoming an everyday superapp that meets the daily essential needs of consumers. Our interconnected and interlinked services enable us to build an ecosystem that benefits not only our customers and driver-partners, but also our merchant-partners and delivery-partners. Currently, two out of 10 Vietnamese people use Grabs services every month. As a technology platform, Grab is committed to long-term investment in Vietnam, thereby improving the quality of living by better serving Vietnamese consumers and driving Vietnam towards the digital economy, Jerry Lim added. Grab is one of the most frequently used O2O mobile platforms in Southeast Asia, providing everyday services that matter most to consumers. Today, the Grab app has been downloaded onto over 109 million mobile devices, giving passengers access to over eight million micro-entrepreneurs. Grab offers the widest range of on-demand transport services in the region, in addition to food and package delivery services. Grabs food delivery service, GrabFood, is the only food delivery company operating across Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. Grab Financial increases access to cashless services for millions of Grab customers across Southeast Asia, and connects the underserved and unbanked population to financial services. "It is a must to reach a peaceful agreement between Kosovo and Serbia that will bring lasting peace between the two countries," said Kosovo's President Hashim Thaci AFP/Emmanuel DUNAND Thaci was addressing journalists at the World Economic Forum in Geneva following a meeting on western Balkan economic integration that included Serbia's Prime Minister Ana Brnabic and leaders from across eastern Europe. "It is a must to reach a peaceful agreement between Kosovo and Serbia that will bring lasting peace between the two countries," Thaci said. Serbia refuses to recognise Kosovo, an Albanian-majority former southern province that broke away from the then Yugoslav republic in a bloody war in 1998-99 and declared independence a decade later. Thaci and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic this summer signalled an openness to "border adjustments" aimed at resolving the longstanding feud. Thousands of people took to the streets in Pristina on Saturday to protest Thaci's proposed land-swap. On Tuesday, Thaci chastised his opponents by arguing that the status quo was not sustainable. "Those who have criticised these efforts have failed to give any alternatives," he said. Brnabic underscored that Serbia was committed to pursuing regional stability as it was key to the country's economic growth. But she dismissed any notion that Belgrade might recognise Kosovo's independence. "We will recognise Kosovo for what it is, the autonomous province of the Republic of Serbia. It is not an open question," Brnabic said. Thaci and Vucic had planned to meet in Brussels last month for talks led by the European Union, but the meeting fell apart at the last minute. Serbia needs a deal with Pristina to move forward in EU accession talks, while Kosovo is hoping that recognition from Belgrade will free its path into the United Nations. Kosovo is recognised by more than 110 countries, but outliers include Russia, China and five EU countries, including Spain, which does not want to set an independence precedent for its own regions. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo opened the UN Security Council meeting. (AFP/Don EMMERT) US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will pay a fresh visit to North Korea on Sunday and meet leader Kim Jong Un as the administration's hopes rise of a denuclearisation deal, the State Department said. The rare advance announcement of a meeting with the young strongman came hours after North Korea raised the stakes in negotiations, saying it would not give up its nuclear weapons in exchange for a peace treaty. Pompeo, who is trying to arrange a second summit between Kim and US President Donald Trump, will also head to US allies Japan and South Korea, as well as North Korea's chief ally China with which the United States is engaged in escalating trade and diplomatic disputes. It will be the fourth trip by Pompeo to North Korea as the Trump administration looks to end its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. "I think it shows forward progress and momentum that the secretary is making his fourth trip in less than a year," State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told reporters. "Everyone recognizes that we have a ways to go and a lot of work that is left to be done," she said. "But obviously these conversations are going in the right direction and we feel confident enough to hop on a plane to head there to continue the conversations." Pompeo has already met twice with Kim, including once when he headed the CIA. But Pompeo did not meet Kim on his last visit in July, when the North Korean leader instead was photographed touring a potato farm. Another visit by Pompeo was announced in August but was abruptly canceled by Trump. TRUMP 'IN LOVE' WITH KIM Kim, who as leader has rarely travelled outside of North Korea, met in June in Singapore with Trump in the first-ever summit between the two countries that have never signed a peace treaty to formally end their 1950-53 war. On Saturday, Trump lavished praise on Kim - considered by human rights groups to be one of the world's most repressive leaders - and said they had fallen "in love" after the exchange of letters. If the love is reciprocated, Kim is more reticent in his words. His foreign minister, Ri Yong Ho, on Saturday told the United Nations General Assembly that there was a "deadlock" in the denuclearisation talks as the United States "relies on coercive measure that are lethal to trust-building." The official Korean Central News Agency on Tuesday said that a peace treaty "can never be a bargaining chip," calling an end to war "not just a gift from one man to another." Nauert played down the remarks, saying: "Other countries sometimes will say things that are more colorful than the United States will, and that's just fine, too." Trump paints rapprochement with North Korea as a signature foreign policy achievement, although critics question whether Kim would really give up nuclear weapons which his dynasty has defiantly pursued for decades. CONSULTING ALLIES AND CHINA The United States has insisted on maintaining tight UN sanctions against North Korea during the diplomatic drive, while Beijing has said it is time to start easing sanctions. The top US diplomat announced last week that he was ready to return to North Korea after meeting Ri, his counterpart, at the United Nations. Pompeo will open his trip on Saturday in Tokyo, where he will meet Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who has long championed a hard line on North Korea but recently said he was willing to meet Kim. After the talks in Pyongyang, Pompeo will head later Sunday to Seoul, where he will meet President Moon Jae-in, a dove who has helped spearhead the reconciliation efforts with North Korea. Nauert said Pompeo would head afterward to Beijing for meetings with unspecified officials. Trump last week slapped US$200 billion in tariffs on Chinese goods and has accused Beijing of interfering in the upcoming US election because of his hard line on trade. PwC's revenue broke the $40 billion barrier This impressive growth is due to our focus on the marketplace and the hard work, professionalism, and dedication of our 250,000 people who continue to develop and innovate to meet the changing needs of PwC stakeholders around the world, said Bob Moritz, PwCs global chairman. Technology is redefining PwC and the quality and relevance of the services we provide, just as it is reshaping the world of business. Across our network we are fully focused on implementing the best technology ideas for our stakeholders. By 2019 we will invest over $1 billion, enabling our business in the Cloud, helping maximise the quality and impact of our services and solutions. We are proud of the work we do for our stakeholders, our role as one of the worlds major recruiters and trainers of finance professionals as well as the contribution we make to the societies in which we operate, Moritz added. Impact on society PwC believes that businesses play a key role in solving societal challenges alongside other stakeholders. The company is highlighting the need to bring economies, business, and society into greater alignment. The company also supports the Young Global Changers programme, which brings together 120 future leaders from around 80 countries to develop mutual respect and understanding. PwCs community investments are an important part of the companys work. By sharing PwC's greatest assetthe skills, knowledge, and talent of their peoplethe firm focuses on education, building the capacity of NGOs and supporting social and micro-enterprises around the world. In the 2018 financial year, the company set the ambitious new global target to invest in the future and growth of 15 million people, NGOs, and social and micro-enterprises to help them maximise their potential by 2022. This impressive growth is due to our focus on the marketplace and the hard work, professionalism, and dedication of our 250,000 people who continue to develop and innovate to meet the changing needs of PwC stakeholders around the world. This year, more than 60,500 PwC people contributed over 850,000 hours619,920 of which were spent sharing their professional skills. As a result of this contribution, PwC reached over 3.2 million people, NGOs, and social and micro-enterprisesa solid step towards the new 15 million goal. The most significant environmental impact is the carbon emissions from powering PwC offices and air travel. This year, PwC is announcing a new global commitment. While driving efficiency to reduce the companys absolute carbon impact, the company commits to offsetting air travel emissions from the 2019 financial year and to sourcing 100 per cent renewables for its electricity consumption and offsetting residual energy use by the 2022 financial year. Sustainable growth For the 12 months ending on June 30, 2018, PwCs revenue was $41.3 billion, up 7 per cent and marking 21 years of growth. Revenues were up across all PwC operations, boosted by continued significant investments in quality, new technologies, services, and talent. In the Americas, revenue grew by 4 per cent with a particularly strong performance from operations in the United States. Growth in Western Europe was stronger than in the previous year, with an increase of 6 per cent, and remained very buoyant in Central and Eastern Europe where revenues were up 10 per cent. Revenue growth from the Middle East and Africa was impressive at 12 per cent. Across Australasia and the Pacific, revenue growth was 7 per cent, while PwCs strongest growth was in Asia, where revenues were up 15 per cent. We continue to make strategic acquisitions in key areas of growth, especially blockchain and data analytics, and to invest in new technologies including artificial intelligence and robotics, as we work to increase the effectiveness of our core services such as audit, said Carol Sawdye, PwCs global chief operating officer. Assurance PwCs assurance operations have continued to grow by 4 per cent to $17.1 billion, which is very impressive given the intensely competitive nature of the assurance market around the world. The increasing complexity of business, the emergence of new technologies, the regulatory environment, and increasing stakeholder interest have driven demand for the companys broader assurance services, particularly in areas such as cyber security and privacy, advanced data analytics, as well as enterprise systems solutions. Companies are seeking broader digital solutions and insights to address governance, risk, and compliance. In a rapidly changing world, there are increasing uncertainties that PwC and stakeholders have to deal with, such as unpredictable political situations, uncertain trade environments, and changing regulatory landscapes. Working to anticipate and mitigate risks is a part of PwCs assurance operations and a service that its stakeholders are demanding in increasing numbers. Providing assurance has been core to our operations for over 150 years. It is the bedrock that we have built our brand and reputation on and we are proud of the service that we provide to our stakeholders and the capital markets, said James Chalmers, PwCs Global Assurance Leader. Focus on quality and innovation The quality of PwCs work is at the heart of its operations across the globe and the company invests very significant and increasing resources in its continuous enhancement across all of its businesses. It is also investing heavily in new technology to drive continuous improvement in the capabilities and effectiveness of its audits, along with all other businesses. To demonstrate its commitment to quality and transparency the company is, for the second time, PwC has published a detailed description of its quality processes and showing the results of its internal quality reviews (www.pwc.com/annualreview). The company continues to invest record amounts in improving audit quality. In 2017, it raised the bar for how we define a fully compliant audit. Moreover, to date PwC is the only large audit network to disclose the results of its internal audit quality inspections. Advisory PwCs Advisory business grew by 10 per cent to $13.8 billion in the 2018 financial year, showing a very strong result on the back of high growth in the financial year prior. The company saw particularly strong growth across deals businesses and strategy, management, and technology consulting practices which demonstrates their success in providing value to clients across strategy-through-execution. While PwC works across all sectors, the company experienced particularly strong demand for advisory services in financial services, consumer markets, and private equity. Tax and legal PwCs Tax & Legal revenue grew by 8 per cent to $10.4 billion, driven by the scale and complexity of change in many domestic and international tax systems, including the impact of US tax reforms. This change and complexity has driven demand across the whole range of services from domestic compliance advisory to international tax and transfer pricing. Revenues from PwCs global Legal Services business continued to grow as its reach and capabilities in this area expand. The company now has over 3,500 lawyers serving clients in over 90 countries. Demand for the companys services on HR transformation and labour mobility also grew strongly across the world, with over 10,000 people now working in the companys People and Organisation network. With over 50,000 professionalswho are enabled with the latest technologiesPwC has the largest tax and legal network in the world, focused on advising clients in line with its Global Tax Code of Conduct and contributing to dialogues about much-needed change to tax systems locally and globally. Recruiting and developing talent In the 2018 financial year, the companys global headcount grew by 6 per cent to more than 250,000 people. PwC saw the largest headcount increases in Asia (14 per cent) and Central and Eastern Europe (10 per cent). Globally, 64,776 people joined PwC firms around the worldincluding 27,016 graduates and 32,924 experienced professionals. In the 2018 fiscal year, nearly half of the people who joined PwC were female. PwC firms admitted a record total of 739 partners across the world. Thirty per cent of these new partners were female. Female representation in the PwC member firm partnerships has gradually increased from 13 per cent in 2006 to 20 per cent in 2018. By embracing and investing in technology, we are helping to raise our peoples digital acumen to prepare them, and PwC, for the future, said PwC global human capital leader, Agnes Hussherr. Vietnams total factor productivity has been increasing at an astounding rate, Photo: Le Toan Last Wednesday, Eric Sidgwick woke up early to go to the Hilton Hanoi Opera Hotel to launch the Asian Development Outlook 2018 Update, a flagship publication which has been prepared for months by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Arriving to Vietnam to work as the country director of the ADB for Vietnam in September 2015, the veteran senior economist has seen that the Vietnamese economy has been growing strongly, going from 6.68 per cent in 2015 and 6.21 per cent in 2016 to 6.81 per cent last year. Vietnam is set to continue its strong economic performance, with GDP growth forecast to rise to 6.9 per cent this year, before easing back to 6.8 per cent in 2019, Sidgwick said optimistically at the launch. These rates are very high for the region. The ADB forecast is higher than the governments GDP target of 6.7 per cent this year. The Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) last week affirmed that, based on positive economic developments since early this year and the months ahead, the economy will grow by 6.7 per cent or more this year. The economys scale will be about $240.5 billion, with a per-capita GDP of $2,540, up $155 compared to 2017, said an MPI report on the countrys socioeconomic development for 2018 and orientations for 2019. Soaring production The agro-forestry-fishery, industry and construction, and service sectors continue on an uptrend this year. Specifically, while the agro-forestry-fishery sector is expected to grow by a two-year record 3.31 per cent, the service sector is projected to climb by 7.35 per cent, and the industrial and construction sector is forecast to grow by 7.59 per cent, according to the MPIs report. Notably, in the industrial and construction sector, processing and manufacturing will see spectacular consecutive growth at double digits about 12.46 per cent, said Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung. The processing and manufacturing segment will become a key driving force for the whole industrial and construction sector. It is also the key contributor to the economys growth this year, offsetting the reduction in mining and boosting the countrys initiative to renew its growth model, which will reduce dependence on the exploitation of minerals and natural resources, Minister Dung said. According to the MPI, the processing and manufacturing sector, which accounts for nearly 80 per cent of Vietnams industrial growth, has been growing strongly over the past few years, at 8.7 per cent in 2014, 10.6 per cent in 2015, 11.9 per cent in 2016, and 14.4 per cent in 2017. The General Statistics Office (GSO) last week reported that in the first nine months of this year, thanks to the increased production of the business community in Vietnam, the index of industrial production (IIP) climbed to the highest nine-month level since 2012, by 10.6 per cent on-year. Breaking down this 10.6 per-cent rise, the manufacturing and processing sector produced the highest climb with 12.9 per cent, contributing to 9.9 per cent of the IIP growth. Meanwhile, the production and distribution of electricity rose by 9.7 per cent, far higher than the 8.9 per cent recorded in the same period last year. Nguyen Doan Toan, Deputy Chairman of the Hanoi Peoples Committee, last week reported that the citys economy grew by 7.17 per cent during the first nine months of this year, far higher than the 6.87 per cent seen in the same period last year. The citys IIP increased by 7.4 per cent, up from 6.7 per cent in the corresponding period last year. It is expected that the rate will be 7.8 per cent this year. Industrial production is largely driving the citys growth, Toan said. It is expected that the citys economy will grow by 7.35-7.45 per cent this year, and at least 7.5 per cent in 2019. Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City reported that its economy grew by 7.89 per cent in the first nine months, and the rate is expected to be 8.3 per cent for the whole year. The key reason also lies in strong industrial production. One of the key reasons behind the MPIs optimism about the uptrend of industrial production was that in 2018, many major industrial projects have and will come into operation, including projects by Samsung, Formosa, PetroVietnams Binh Son Refining and Petrochemical JSC, and Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical Plant. For example, in the first half of this year, Samsung Display Vietnam (SDV) in the northern province of Bac Ninh achieved an export turnover of $3.7 billion and revenue of $6.6 billion. Since its establishment in late 2014, the manufacturer, which produces OLED screens for phones, tablets, and watches, has disbursed $6.3 billion out of its total committed $6.5 billion. The remaining $200 million is disbursed during this third quarter, much earlier than the companys initial schedule of 2022. According to the ADB, the industrial sector, with a focus on processing and manufacturing, is taking the lead in the Vietnamese economy. The economic performance is broad-based, driven by vigorous manufacturing expansion, bumper agriculture production, the robust performance of the services sector, resilient domestic consumption, and strong investment fuelled by foreign direct investment (FDI) and domestic enterprises, Sidgwick said. In the first nine months of this year, the number of newly established enterprises operating in the processing and manufacturing sector was over 13,000. Improved growth quality I would also like to stress that the economy is growing more sustainably, with the quality of economic growth improved, Minister Dung said. Recently, the prime minister ordered not to increase the exports of crude oil just to achieve high economic growth. In fact, the countrys crude oil output has been decreasing annually, from 16.6 million tonnes in 2015 to 15.2 million tonnes in 2016 and 13 million tonnes last year. It is expected that the figure will be only 11 million tonnes this year. According to the GSO, the economys per-capita labour productivity was $4,166 last year, up 6 per cent against 2016. Productivity rose by 5.29 per cent in 2016 and 6 per cent last year. Meanwhile, the ratio of total-factor productivity (TFP) in the GDP was 40.68 per cent in 2016 and 45.19 per cent last year. It was 33.58 per cent in the 2011-2015 period, but rose to 42.18 per cent in the first three years of the 2016-2020 period. TFP is a measurement of the efficiency of all inputs to a production process. Increases in TFP usually result from technological innovations or improvements. In addition, the incremental capital-output ratio (ICOR) also decreased, going from 6.41 in 2016 to 6.27 in 2017. ICOR tells how much additional capital would be required to produce a unit of growth. According to the ADB, the quality of Vietnams growth has significantly improved. The economic growth is not only reflected in the growth rate, but also in all the sectors in the economy, from agriculture and industry to services. This means that the economy has been growing strongly, in a comprehensive manner, Nguyen Minh Cuong, principal country economist of the ADB in Vietnam told VIR. For example, in the first half of this year, industrial production expanded very quickly, by 9.3 per cent, compared to the 5.4 per cent in the same period last year. In addition, a 13-per-cent rise in manufacturing output was driven by impressive increases in export-oriented sectors, such as in telecommunications, electronics, and textiles. This helped push up the economys industrial production and had spillover effects in other sectors, Cuong said. However, the ADB also noted some prospective economic risks. Specifically, looking ahead, external and domestic challenges could pose risks for the countrys economic growth. Growth moderation in major economies such as China, the EU, and Japan could dent export opportunities for Vietnam. Continued trade frictions between the US and China could have spillover effects on Vietnams external trade and FDI. Domestically, unfavourable weather could also undermine agricultural and mining output. Two large markets of Viettel Global is having planned-loss Two largest markets holding Viettel Global back Viettel Global (VGI) has officially started trading 2.24 billion shares on the Unlisted Public Company Market (UpCOM), with the total par value of VND22.4 trillion ($9.92 billion) and the reference price of VND15,000 ($0.66). Thus, the company is worth nearly $1.5 billion. On the first transaction session on September 25, VGIs shares hit the ceiling price of VND21,000 ($0.93). Viettel Global operates in 10 international markets, but only nine of these markets are included in its consolidated business results: Cambodia, Laos, Haiti, Myanmar, Burundi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Cameroon, and East Timor. Peru is VGIs largest revenue and profit-making market, but its consolidated business results need to be included in Viettel Groups books as per Peruvian regulations. Among these 10 projects, the total investment value of the Mytel operations in Myanmar since June 2018 was $1.75 billion. Next is Halotel, which has been operating since October 2015 in Tanzania, with $783 million. The two markets with the largest investment from Viettel are also the ones that were meant to operate at a loss at the beginning. With the exclusion of Peru, this leaves seven markets, including Cambodia, Laos, Haiti, Burundi, East Timor, Mozambique, and Cameroon, where Viettel Global reported profit. The corporation has managed to recoup its investment in three of these markets (Laos, Cambodia, and East Timor). Viettel Globals financial picture Viettel Groups total consolidated revenue in 2017 grew strongly, reaching VND199.02 trillion ($841.72 million), an on-year increase of 24 per cent, while pre-tax profit was VND27 billion ($1.19 million). Including the results of its subsidiaries, Viettel Global recorded a loss of over VND481 billion ($21.28 million), decreasing by 612 per cent compared with the corresponding period in 2016 (loss of VND 3.42 trillion - $115.63 million). Explaining the reason behind the falling consolidated revenue, despite seven out of nine markets getting profit, Viettel Global said that the latest markets that Viettel invested (Myanmar and Tanzania) have larger scale than previous markets, therefore, the profit from previous markets is not enough to offset the huge initial investment needed to break open these two markets. In 2018-2020, Viettel Global targets to set foot in one or two new markets, with the goal of obtaining one license per year. The company will focus on Asian markets due to the similarities in culture and convenient management. Viettel generally starts turning a profit after three years of launching in a foreign market. That these two markets have yet to bring profit is well within our plans. In fact, telecommunications businesses usually reach the breakeven point with their outbound investments at least four of five years after the launch in markets that are highly competitive, said Le Dang Dung, general director of Viettel Group. Another cause behind the losses is exchange rate differences, which in 2016 cost VND3.01 trillion ($133.23 million) to the company, accounting for 83 per cent of its financial costs, while in 2017 it was VND2.73 trillion ($120.93 million), accounting for 78.5 per cent. As Viettels outbound investments are foreign currency denominated (USD, EUR), while revenue in foreign countries arrives in domestic currency, Vittels revenue is affected by exchange rate risk when exchanging into USD and re-evaluating the rate of foreign currency liabilities at the end of the term, noted Viettels report. Viettel raises charter capital to invest in new markets At the annual general shareholders meeting held in June 2018, Viettel Globals shareholders voted to increase the firms charter capital to VND30.43 trillion ($1.34 billion) via issuing 800 million ordinary shares at the price of VND10,000($0.44) (the total value was $3.54 billion). Viettel Global says that this capital will be used to expand the scale of its operations until 2020. Previously, in the middle of 2017, in a talk with VIR, Le Dang Dung revealed that Viettel is planning to invest in Nigeria and Indonesiatwo markets which have a total population of about 450 million, twice as many as the Viettels 10 current markets. In 2018-2020, Viettel Global targets to set foot in one or two new markets, with the goal of obtaining one license per year. The company will focus on Asian markets due to the similarities in culture and convenient management, read the prospectus of Viettel Global. Do Manh Hung, general director of Viettel Global, said that in 2018, the company set the target to break even and start expanding to new markets by 2020 and reach a customer base of 400-500 million people, as well as reach the top 10 global telecommunications companies. Sunset in Bai Sau (Back Beach), or Thuy Van Beach, one of several beautiful beaches in Vung Tau city, the southern province of Ba Ria - Vung Tau The fair is designed to create opportunities for localities, organisations, and enterprises to popularise their tourism products and develop business connections. It will also enhance Vietnams tourism image, contributing towards developing tourism into a spearhead economy for the nation. Under the project, from 2020, the VITM will be held annually in April in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, and its themes will be in line with market trends and demand of tourism development. The event will feature at least 300 pavilions, with 25 percent of them international firms. The number of international tourist arrivals to Vietnam in the third quarter of this year increased 14.9 percent against the same period last year, according to the General Statistics Office (GSO). However, the figure was still lower than those in the first and second quarters which stood at 30.9 percent and 23.1 percent, respectively. Between January and September, Vietnam welcomed some 11.61 million foreign holiday-makers, a year-on-year rise of 22.9 percent, with visitors by air, road and sea up 17.4 percent, 62.1 percent and 0.5 percent, respectively. Tourists from Asia rose 27.2 percent; Europe, 9.8 percent; America, 12.5 percent; Oceania, 6.3 percent; and Africa, 19.5 percent. The US has remained one of Vietnams top five tourism markets with the number of vacationers to the country exceeding 614,000 in 2017, up 11 percent against 2016. As of August 2018, Vietnam had served 486,000 US holiday-makers, a year-on-year increase of 14.5 percent. Achieving this recognition is the result of the power of having a good attitude and believing in yourself. You push yourself to be better because you want to succeed and it becomes contagious, he said. It is your attitude more than your aptitude that will determine the altitude of your life. North Korea says a peace treaty is not enough to denuclearize. Indonesia's tsunami death toll rises. Navigating virtual Singapore. New clothes from old in Hong Kong. Record setting art. Ageing wine underwater, and the newest cars on display in Paris. Both the United States and Pakistan say they want to improve their relationship, but the war in Afghanistan remains a major obstacle. The U.S. State Department made clear that the foundation for a strong partnership between the United States and Pakistan is a partnership for peace and stability in Afghanistan. VOAs Diplomatic Correspondent Cindy Saine reports from the State Department. Wednesday marks the second day of U.S. first lady Melania Trump's six-day, four nation tour of Africa -- her first major solo international trip since moving into the White House in 2017. Her goodwill visit is overshadowed by derogatory remarks President Donald Trump reportedly made about the African continent earlier this year, as well as questions about the administration's overall strategy towards Africa. Richard Green has more from Washington. Aid groups are decrying Burundis decision to suspend nongovernmental organizations, amid ongoing concerns about human rights violations in the country. The action by Burundis National Security Council stops the work of groups such as Doctors Without Borders and Catholic Relief Services, both of which deliver vital health care to some of the countrys most vulnerable people. It is NGOs that provide services to the population and fill the gaps of the government services in health and education that are not provided by the government, said Nicolas Agostini, the representative to the United Nations for Defend Defenders, a Ugandan NGO that advocates for human rights activists across East Africa. So the impact is clearly on the people of Burundi who have already borne the brunt of the crisis, Agostini said. Political turmoil has gripped Burundi since 2015, when President Pierre Nkurunziza announced hed run for a third term, defying critics who said he was constitutionally limited to just two. Since then, security forces and the youth wing of the ruling party, the Imbonerakure, have targeted opponents and perceived opponents with arrests, rape, torture and killings, according to Human Rights Watch. Last month, a United Nations commission of inquiry said the ongoing rights violations in Burundi may amount to crimes against humanity. Amnesty International denounced the move to suspend NGOs. The measures announced are vague and amount to heavy-handed state interference into the internal affairs of nongovernmental organizations, said Sarah Jackson, Amnesty Internationals deputy director for East Africa, the Horn and the Great Lakes. This repressive measure follows increasing restrictions on civil society space and should be reversed immediately, Jackson added. Legality questioned Some have questioned the legality of the decision. Burundis National Security Council has no legitimacy to suspend international NGOs, because NGOs operate under a protocol with the foreign affairs ministry, Dieudonne Bashirahishize, a lawyer representing a dozen Burundi civil society organizations in exile, told VOAs Swahili service. The suspended NGOs will have three months to prove they have complied with the new rules, said Burundis minister of the interior, Pascal Barandagiye. Barandagiye met with delegates of the organizations Tuesday and outlined the conditions they must fulfill to resume operating. NGOs must deposit money in the central bank, sign an agreement with the foreign affairs ministry, agree to support the governments national development plan and adhere to ethnic quotas when recruiting employees. Bashirahishize said the demand for racial quotas is politically motivated. According to Burundis constitution and the Arusha peace deal signed in 2000, ethnic quotas should be observed only in political and security institutions such as the government, the parliament and the army. This condition cant be applied to international nongovernment organizations, Bashirahishize said. Burundi is made up mostly of people from the Hutu and Tutsi ethnic groups. Animus between the groups fueled a 12-year civil war that ended in 2005. The country had made progress in healing racial wounds in the decade after the war, but in recent years, racial strife has returned in the midst of the ongoing political crisis. It seems the government is trying to enforce ethnic-based quotas for NGOs with, I think, 60 percent Hutu and 40 percent Tutsi. Which might be an attempt to further ethnisize the crisis, and which is very concerning, Agostini said. Agostini also criticized the Burundian governments demand that NGOs sign a cooperation agreement with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Its the hallmark of a government that seeks total control of its population. Any independent voice is targeted, he said. Earlier this year, Burundi banned VOA and the BBC weeks before a referendum on constitutional changes to further extend Nkurunzizas presidency. Sitting on the wooden pews of a small white brick church on a hot Wednesday afternoon in central Georgia, a group of residents gathered to chat about the upcoming governor's race and the issues concerning them in their community, from economic development to health care to infrastructure. A particular topic of interest was a strategy for voter turnout and how to fight the barriers to it in what could be a pivotal midterm election. "We've got to get out to the nursing homes, tell the DJ if that's what we've got to do to get to the young folks,'' said Houston County NAACP Vice President Jonathan Johnson, thinking aloud as the audience nodded in agreement. "We could start a cookout . If we could do that as a community, we could make a big difference in this election.'' These were not the rural voters who have gotten so much attention after helping elect President Donald Trump in 2016. They are the black rural voters living in red states. They're staunchly Democratic even as they're surrounded by white voters who are almost all Republicans. And they're often overlooked by big-name candidates from both parties. "There's a narrative that is out in the world right now around what rural America looks like, and it completely erases the existence of black rural folks,'' said Tamika Middleton, organizing director for Care in Action, a domestic workers advocacy group, in attendance at the church gathering. "We exist. There's never been black folks who were not fighting and resisting in the rural South.'' Chance of impact The Black Belt's overlap with Trump country could factor into the elections across the South next month, including competitive races for the governor's mansion in Florida and the Senate in Mississippi. That raises the possibility that black rural voters will have an unusual opportunity to make an impact on statewide races. But it's Georgia where black rural voters could be especially important as Stacey Abrams campaigns to become the nation's first black female governor. A Mississippi native who moved to Georgia as a child, Abrams is the first Democrat in years to have a real chance of winning the governor's race. And from the beginning, when she launched her campaign in south Georgia's Dougherty County, she's made outreach to rural voters a key part of her strategy. "Since the beginning of the campaign, Stacey Abrams has been focused on reaching out to a broad coalition of voters in every part of the state, including rural communities of color who have been left behind for too long,'' said Lauren Groh-Wargo, Abrams' campaign manager. Statewide, a third of rural Georgians are people of color, and Abrams has been making her case to black rural voters in churches like the one in Warner Robins. In recent months, she has spent time in towns like Riceboro, Americus, Thomasville, Fort Valley and Cordele far from the usual Democratic campaign stops like Atlanta, Savannah, Macon and Albany. During the primary, Abrams' efforts paid off in places like predominantly black Washington County, where she campaigned in May. Turnout there nearly doubled from four years earlier, with Abrams getting 69 percent of the vote this spring, according to turnout data from the Georgia secretary of state. Health, development issues Rural blacks' priorities often differ from those of their urban counterparts. Many suffer from health disparities, including obesity, maternal mortality, diabetes and sickle cell, living in regions with few hospitals, governed by state officials who have rejected the expansion of Medicaid that would help them afford treatment. The Black Belt was historically an agricultural region that remains starved for economic development, and the class and power divide that began during slavery still persists along racial lines in many communities. While the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 politically changed the region with the onslaught of black public elected officials, another result was voter suppression, said Georgia State University historian Maurice Hobson. "It's a black population that has been so mistreated and so marginalized by the political system that many people are like, 'My vote doesn't count anyway,' '' Hobson said. "There is a sense of hopelessness.'' That dynamic has paralyzed some blacks in the South, but this fall's midterms could signal a shift among those voters and a way forward for Democrats seeking their votes. "Our people have voted year after year after year, and they have not seen their lives change,'' LaTosha Brown, co-founder of the Black Voters Matter Fund, which is touring the black South to register and turn out voters this cycle, told the crowd in Warner Robins. "We got a black woman that is the Democratic nominee at the top of the ticket in a state where we couldn't even vote. Y'all are standing on land where our people died as slaves. We gotta remember that.'' Kattie Kendrick, former Peach County Democratic Party chairwoman, who was on a recent tour stop in Fort Valley, Georgia, said that mobilizing voters in her part of the state has been challenging but that outside interest could help to energize them. "We do not necessarily unite, but when other people know that the black people in Peach County and throughout rural Georgia matter, that makes a difference,'' Kendrick said. 'Terrible Terrell' Down the road in Terrell County, the Rev. Ezekiel Holley plotted how to get nearly 1,000 of his neighbors who typically vote in presidential elections to show up for the midterms. Nicknamed "Terrible Terrell,'' three churches in the county were burned in the 1950s to keep blacks from voting. Today, Holley said, the problem is apathy and frustration with elected officials who forget they can't see a doctor or need their roads paved. "Most of our citizens feel that people we have elected have let us down,'' he explained. "They get elected and forget about who elected them and their platform. So why should I keep on voting for you? "The majority of the national politicians feel that ... they don't have to worry about little rural places. Most folks are concentrating on metro Atlanta more than the rest of Georgia. Hopefully, they're getting the picture now.'' Holley went to see Abrams speak at a campaign event earlier this month with former President Jimmy Carter in his hometown of Plains. The pair talked about Medicaid expansion, which Holley believes will bring jobs, better health conditions and industry into the state. That she announced her plans there said to him that she cares about his corner of the state. It's a message Holley plans to take to the registered voters he hopes to help turn out in Terrell County in the coming few weeks, but he's still not sure whether they will show up. "I can't give a good answer on that yet,'' he said. "People are excited, but Nov. 6 is going to tell the story.'' A man who says he was sexually abused decades ago by his parish priest said Tuesday he is suing all Catholic bishops in California and the Archdiocese of Chicago, seeking to compel church officials to release records on clergy abuse. The filing Tuesday in Los Angeles by Thomas Emens claims a civil conspiracy among church officials to cover up clergy sexual assault and move offending priests to other parishes. Emens said at a news conference that he was abused for two years starting in 1978 when he was 10 years old by Monsignor Thomas Joseph Mohan. The priest, who is deceased, arrived at St. Anthony Claret Catholic Church in Anaheim in the early 1970s from Chicago, according to the lawsuit. "This lawsuit is to find justice -- to get the clerics at the top to come clean and tell the truth,'' Emens said. Attorney Jeff Anderson said the goal of the so-called nuisance lawsuit is to force the church to reveal the names of all priests accused of child molestation. He said church documents would reveal a playbook among bishops and other officials to protect offending clergy by keeping files under wraps and moving the priests across the country and, in some cases, out of the U.S. The lawsuit asks a judge "to abate the continuing nuisance'' of abuse by ordering each diocese to name all accused priests, detail their history of alleged assault and identify their last known addresses. The California Catholic Conference of Bishops, which oversees the state's 12 dioceses, didn't directly address the lawsuit in a statement Tuesday afternoon. Instead the group pointed out the "positive steps taken by California dioceses over the past 15 years to protect children and young people from abuse.'' Reforms implemented in 2003's Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People include "fingerprinting and background checks for priests, staff and any volunteers working around children and young people,'' the statement said. Every diocese has also instituted programs to train students and staff in identifying and preventing abuse, the group said. A call seeking comment from the Archdiocese of Chicago was not immediately returned. The court filing invokes both public and private statutes of nuisance law in California. Such laws generally involve behavior that negatively affects a community or interferes with the use and enjoyment of private property, said John Nockleby, a professor at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles. Alleging nuisance violations in relation to past sexual abuse by a single priest is a "creative approach'' by Emens' lawyers, said Nockleby, adding that it will be very difficult to prove in court. Criminal charges are not feasible in this case because they would fall outside California's statute of limitations. With his political future at stake, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will mount a charm offensive to placate dairy farmers who say he sold them out in order to win approval of a continental trade deal. Compounding Trudeau's challenges in the influential province of Quebec, where many dairy farmers are based, voters there tossed out one of his allies on Monday in favor of a new center-right party that opposes immigration and supports supply management, as Canada's dairy protection system is known. Unhappy Quebec farmers - who are a political force - are already complaining to legislators from the ruling Liberals, and insiders concede there is no guarantee of winning them over, leaving Trudeau potentially vulnerable in a federal election set for October 2019. The prime minister needed a win on trade after a year that has left his environmental and energy policy in tatters. That said, opposition leaders have struggled to connect with voters and their parties face their own challenges in Quebec. Under the new United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Ottawa on Sunday bowed to long-standing pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump's administration to grant more access to the highly protected dairy market. In return, the United States dropped a threat to impose tariffs on Canadian auto exports. This would have caused major damage to the economy and disproportionately affected Ontario, Canada's most populous province, which also tilted right in a June provincial election. "Dairy was Trump's personal obsession, and so there was no way we could have made a deal without some form of dairy concessions," said one senior Liberal, who declined to be identified given the sensitivity of the situation. The government plans to discuss a promised compensation package with dairy farmers in coming months, as well as ways the industry can be made more competitive. "There is going to be a rough patch and our members of Parliament are already hearing it, especially those in rural areas," said the Liberal source. Trudeau says farmers will be fully compensated, which in the past has helped mute their protests over concessions agreed in earlier trade deals. "We are reaching out to them, we want to work with them. That's going to be the message and hopefully that will be sufficient to get over this, but there's nothing guaranteed in life," said the Liberal. The dairy industry is concentrated in Ontario and Quebec, which together account for 61.5 percent of the population. Trudeau has no chance of retaining power unless the Liberals do well in both provinces. "People feel betrayed," said Bruno Letendre, chairman of a group representing Quebec's dairy farmers. "They don't want compensation. They want to produce for the Canadian market." Quebec's premier-elect, Francois Legault, plans to meet with farmers on Tuesday before deciding on what options to pursue. He told reporters, "I will do everything to defend them." The Liberals, who now hold 40 of Quebec's 78 seats in the federal House of Commons, privately say that to retain their parliamentary majority next year they need to win another 20 to offset expected losses elsewhere, including in British Columbia where a pipeline dispute has pitted the province against Ottawa. Trudeau could be spared the worst in Quebec, where a prominent Conservative recently quit to form his own party, threatening to split the right-leaning vote. The leftist New Democrats, who compete directly with Trudeau's Liberals, are losing public support. Opinion polls taken before the trade talks ended showed the Liberals comfortably ahead of the official opposition Conservatives, who have spent the last two days accusing Trudeau of selling Canada short in the trade deal. "The political calculus for the Liberals would be that failing on NAFTA was really not an option because that would leave them significantly vulnerable in terms of their economic track record," said pollster Nik Nanos of Nanos Research. "I think they decided it would probably be easier ... to take their lumps with the dairy farmers than to face a broader narrative of mismanagement of the trade file and the economy among many Canadians," he said in an interview. Two American scientists and a British scientist have won the Nobel Prize for Chemistry for their work in developing methods of genetic change and selection to produce new materials, pharmaceuticals and biofuels. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced its award Wednesday that comes with the $1 million prize. American Frances Arnold was honored for the "directed evolution of enzymes," using principles of natural selection to create new proteins that speed up chemical reactions. The academy said Arnold's work in the laboratory amounted to making evolution many times faster with the result of proteins that have new and useful properties. American George Smith was honored for his development of what is known as a phage display, or a virus that infects bacteria in order to evolve new proteins. British researcher Gregory Winter was the third prize winner for his work in using a phage display to evolve antibodies to create new pharmaceuticals. The academy said the method has been used to create drugs for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, autoimmune diseases and metastatic cancer. Friday brings the announcement of this year's winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, and on Monday the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences will be awarded. There will be no Nobel Prize in Literature this year. Chinese officials are expected to tone down military activity in the contested South China Sea as the United States pushes back and Beijing hopes to ease Sino-U.S. trade tension without making the U.S. government angrier. U.S. President Donald Trump wants to keep the sea open internationally as China seeks more control for itself, scholars say, and now he may be passing ships and planes into the waterway to pressure China over trade as well as its maritime activity. I dont think the pressure is specifically directed toward the militarization of Chinese-owned islands in the South China Sea, said Alan Chong, associate professor at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. Its more of a case trying to signal to Beijing to show some accommodation on the trade dispute. Since taking office in 2017, Trump has routinely sent navy vessels into the South China Sea. China has irked five other Asian governments by expanding militarily despite rival sovereignty claims. Beijing will probably reconsider any flashy moves, such as building more artificial islands, the chief activity to date that has worried other countries, as long as the trade dispute persists and Washington keeps sending ships and planes, some scholars suggest. We could perhaps see that this [U.S. pressure] is not just a trade war, it is some sort of comprehensive containment policy of China, said Oh Ei Sun, international studies instructor at Singapore Nanyang University. Its likely [China] will not sort of hit back hard. Military pressure in South China Sea U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis approved last year a schedule for naval vessel passages, called Freedom of Navigation exercises, to ensure they would take place without consideration for other aspects of Sino-U.S. relations, said Gregory Poling, director of the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative under the American think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies. China calls about 90 percent of the sea its own, giving it a lead over rival claimants in access to fisheries, fuel deposits and marine shipping lanes. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam claim all or parts of the sea but lack Chinas military strength. The U.S. government does not claim the 3.5 million-square-kilometer sea but wants freedom of navigation to remain intact. Other governments have bristled as Beijing parked missiles, held naval drills and considered nuclear power stations in the 3.5 million square-kilometer sea that runs from Hong Kong to the island of Borneo. Land reclamation on the seas tiny islets has allowed some of that militarization. Now the U.S. ship passages, paired with at least three B-52 bomber missions under President Trump, will chill China as it vies with the United States over trade, some experts say. The United States has levied import tariffs on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods this year, while China which runs a trade surplus has retaliated with tariffs on just $110 billion worth of U.S. goods, most of its imports from the other side. Economists call the dispute a threat to Chinas economy. In this [Trump] has two purposes, one is to tell China this is not your territory and secondly put pressure on China for the trade deal, to tell them that we the U.S. are serious about this, said Shane Lee, political scientist at Chang Jung Christian University in Taiwan. Chinese reactions China is trying to work out the trade dispute through talks without bringing in the maritime issue, said Carl Thayer, emeritus professor with the University of New South Wales in Australia. But Chinese officials may find it hard to know where Trump is headed on the South China Sea, he said. You dont know how far hes going to go, but since the [2016 presidential] campaign, Ive not heard him utter the words South China Sea, Thayer said. Beijing cites historical records to back its maritime claims. Beijing will find it hard to do much more at sea as the trade war threatens its economy, Lee said. With the trade war going on, they have to focus on the trade war, he said. More Chinese efforts to expand its maritime control would also risk antagonizing much of Southeast Asia, Oh said. The United States, Japan, Australia and India have tried since last year to back the Southeast Asian states over China. Officials from Washington said earlier this year they hope Vietnam buys more U.S. weapons, and in July, two U.S. ships and an aircraft carrier held joint exercise with the Philippines in the South China Sea. When U.S. voters go to the polls Nov. 6 to cast their ballots in the midterm elections, they can be confident everything will work as it should, at least for now, the secretary of homeland security said Tuesday. Kirstjen Nielsen, speaking at The Washington Post's 2018 Cybersecurity Summit, said the country's election infrastructure, computer systems, networks and other hardware required to record the vote were all safe. "We currently have no indication that a foreign adversary intends to disrupt our election infrastructure," Nielsen said. But she added that the Department of Homeland Security, its partners in the U.S. intelligence community, and state and local governments were taking nothing for granted. "We're constantly on alert," Nielsen said. "We know they have the capability and we know they have the will." DHS has been working with officials in all 50 states to make sure election-related systems are protected against intrusions and potential compromises from countries like Russia, though federal officials have also expressed concerns about possible attacks from China, Iran and North Korea. Two years ago, in the months leading up the U.S. presidential election, Russian hackers targeted election systems in 21 U.S. states, penetrating some of them while scanning others. But despite the intrusion, U.S. intelligence officials concluded the Russian cyber efforts did not physically change any votes. U.S. officials have said they have yet to see the same type of frenzied activity this year that they saw in 2016, but that they remain concerned about attacks against the country's election infrastructure and about disinformation campaigns, some of which involve gathering information from specific candidates, campaigns or political organizations. According to both government officials and private technology firms, a growing number of U.S. political candidates and campaigns have come under increasingly sophisticated attacks. "We absolutely see attempts to scan systems to spear-phish," Nielsen said. "We haven't seen any major compromises as of yet, but again it's that preparatory work that should raise everybody's shield." In the meantime, U.S. intelligence and security officials are warning that Russia continues to run information operations to try to change the perceptions and opinions of U.S. voters. "The objective here is not necessarily to come up with a particular party but to generate suspicion, lack of trust and disorder in the American electorate," former Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff told VOA's Russian service. "I fully expect we're going to see more of that, as well as social media stories generated again to create dissension and distrust," Chertoff said. Experts likewise worry about China's information campaigns, though many say that for now, Beijing's aims appear to be different. "They're more focused on making sure there's a positive portrayal of China and to downplay criticism of China," said James Mulvenon, general manager of the Special Programs Division at SOS International LLC (SOSi). Rafael Saakov of VOA's Russian service contributed to this report. Editor's note: An earlier version if this article included an outdated reference to James Mulvenon's title and organization. VOA regrets the error. BBVA/Compass Bank is financing construction for the addition, and Smith Crossing will refinance current debt with a new bond issue that will be privately purchased by BBVA/Compass and First Midwest Bank, according to Raymond Marneris, chief financial officer for Smith Senior Living. Smith Crossing has $32.2 million in outstanding debt, according to Marneris. Republican Sen. Jeff Flake of Arizona and Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware forged their friendship in Africa, thousands of miles away from the divisiveness of Washington. Both spent formative time there as young men in the early 1980s Coons studying in Kenya during college, Flake doing his mission for the Mormon church in southern Africa and they bonded over their shared interest on a Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee. They traveled to the continent multiple times together, fighting wildlife trafficking, promoting economic development, spending time with a dictator and even being chased by elephants once in 2016. Flake, who is retiring from Congress this year, said at an event with Coons in Washington on Tuesday that it was that bipartisan bonding so rare in the Senate these days that made it possible for them to come together last week and urge an FBI investigation into sexual assault accusations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. The development delayed Kavanaugh's final confirmation vote and eased, temporarily, some of the partisan wrath over the nomination. "We've been through a lot,'' Flake said, recounting, among other adventures, a four-hour meeting with former Zimbabwean dictator Robert Mugabe and a safari outing gone wrong that led to elephants chasing their vehicle. "And the trust that you develop working with each other on issues like that ... that's how compromises are possible, and there's less and less of that going on.'' Rare relationships Bipartisan friendships, especially in the Senate, weren't always so rare. But in 2018, locked in a political fight that could determine the direction of the Supreme Court for a generation, senators have found little reason to reach across the aisle. Flake's decision to call for an FBI investigation came a day after an all-day hearing in which California professor Christine Blasey Ford testified that she was sexually assaulted by Kavanaugh in the early 1980s when both were in high school. Kavanaugh also testified, forcefully denying the claim and blaming Democrats. At a Senate Judiciary Committee meeting the next day, Republicans angrily defended Kavanaugh and some Democrats walked out, protesting a committee vote on Kavanaugh they said was being rushed. Coons stayed in the room and proposed a one-week delay, in which time an FBI investigation could be conducted. Flake later called it a "sober, rational speech.'' After Coons spoke, Flake walked around the dais, tapped him on the shoulder and motioned into the anteroom, where the two began negotiations. With tight margins in the Senate, Flake had the power to withhold his vote and force an investigation. Republicans and Democrats were in and out of the anteroom, but Flake wanted to talk to Coons, and at one point the two ended up alone in a small phone booth for privacy. 'It felt real' Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., was an early part of the discussions. She said Flake listened to others, but that his friendship with Coons was a key part of his final decision. "What I liked about it was that it felt real,'' she said of the talks between them. On Friday, shortly after the deal was announced, Coons teared up talking about Flake, calling him his "role model'' and mentioning their trips to Africa. He said then that Flake feels passionately that division in the U.S. "teaches the wrong thing to the world about our democracy, and suggests that we are not able to respect each other or work together.'' Several days later, Coons told The Associated Press that he sees his friendship with Flake as in the mold of two other senators from Delaware and Arizona: former Vice President Joe Biden and the late Republican Sen. John McCain, who died this summer after battling brain cancer. Each served more than three decades in the Senate, and Biden gave a eulogy at one of McCain's funerals in August. Coons and Flake attended McCain's funeral together. "I am determined, in John's memory, to try to keep building relationships like that,'' Coons said. "And Jeff has been one of the greatest partners I've had in my eight years here.'' Coons says he's emotional about Flake's decision to retire, which came after differences with President Donald Trump and others in his party. He said he is also struggling with the retirement of Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Corker, R-Tenn., with whom he has worked closely, and the death of McCain. All three questioned Trump's leadership and occasionally bucked their party. Coons says he has considered not running for re-election in 2020, but "I look forward to considering to serve if I can find legislative partners comparable to Jeff Flake and Bob Corker, whom I will dearly miss.'' He noted this year's Democratic primary in his state, in which longtime Democratic Sen. Tom Carper was challenged from the left. Carper won the race handily, but Coons says he is concerned in some ways about the increasingly divisive direction of politics within his party. He adds, somewhat jokingly: "No rational person would do this job and say, 'I'm loving it.' '' Trust is key Virginia Sen. Mark Warner, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee who has worked closely with the Republican chairman, North Carolina Sen. Richard Burr, on the panel's Russia investigation, says bipartisan relationships are rooted in deep trust. "I think that's what Americans want from us, to have these relationships,'' Warner said, "It means at some point you have to be willing to show that you aren't always going to be reflexively for your own team.'' Flake is less certain that voters want to see cooperation. He says there's no currency, or incentives, to work together in a polarized political climate. He says he is leaving the Senate because he "simply couldn't run the kind of campaign I figured I'd need to run.'' Speaking of Coons, he said, "The thing I will miss the most about the Senate is relationships like this.'' A study of the African bush elephant's vast network of deep wrinkles has found it is intricately designed to help the animals keep their cool, fight off parasites and defend against sun damage, scientists said on Tuesday. The fine pattern of millions of channels means the elephant's skin can retain five to 10 times more water than a flat surface, the scientists said. The research, conducted by scientists at Switzerland's University of Geneva and the Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, was published in the journal Nature Communications on Tuesday. "Because of their huge body size, and their warm and dry habitat, African elephants can avoid over-heating only by losing calories through evaporation of the water they collect in and on their skin," researchers wrote. The scientists found that elephant skin channels are not just folds or wrinkles, but actual fractures in the animal's brittle outermost layer of skin. The skin grows on a tiny lattice framework, they said, causing it to fracture under mechanical stress when the animals move. African elephants are known to love bathing, spraying and mud-wallowing, and since they have no sweat and sebum glands to keep their skin moist and supple, the tiny crevices trap and hold on to water and mud, helping to regulate body temperature. They also form a barrier against bugs and solar radiation. Indonesian officials were meeting with the U.S. ambassador in Jakarta Wednesday to discuss assistance for earthquake and tsunami survivors after a day of confusion over whether the country was willing to accept American aid. Maritime Coordinating Minister Luhut Binsar told VOA by telephone Ambassador Joseph R. Donovan reached out to him on Tuesday to inquire about Indonesia's needs. U.S. President Donald Trump said at a press conference Monday the United States had "already sent a lot of first responders and military and others" to help Indonesia deal with the impact of the twin disasters. But doubts were raised about the prospects for relief cooperation when Vice President Jusuf Kalla was widely quoted Tuesday as saying Indonesia had refused an offer of a hospital ship and that military personnel were not needed. Spokesman Hussain Abdullah told VOA's Indonesian Service "it is not true" that Kalla was rejecting all U.S. assistance, as some media outlets reported. The vice president's statement "is specifically about [the focus of] foreign assistance for rehabilitation and reconstruction in the long term. Not a military personnel," he said. Abdullah noted that Kalla had said in earlier remarks to reporters that it "is necessary to ensure that we can use the assistance, so we focus more on foreign aid for rehabilitation and reconstruction the same as it was" after the massive tsunami that hit Aceh in 2004. Kalla also said emergency assistance is "permissible, as long as it meets our needs." However he made clear Indonesia had no interest in a visit by an American hospital ship, citing a similar visit after the Aceh earthquake that was of little use. "No. We don't accept that," he said. "They want to send us hospitals hospital ships. We have those. Remember our experience in Aceh only five people were willing to board the hospital ship. " Luhut, the maritime coordinating minister, said he has already explained to Ambassador Donovan why the hospital ship was not wanted. "It's true, he offered to provide a hospital ship, I have told him directly we don't need it," he said. "What we need," he added, "is water purification, an effort to build an anti-earthquake house that's what we need." Ireland's data regulator has launched an investigation of Facebook over a recent data breach that allowed hackers access 50 million accounts which could potentially cost Facebook more than $1.6 billion in fines. The Irish Data Protection Commission said Wednesday that it will look into whether the U.S. social media company complied with European regulations that went into effect earlier this year covering data protection. It's the latest headache for Facebook in Europe, where authorities are turning up the heat on dominant tech firms over data protection. Last month, European Union consumer protection chief Vera Jourova said that she was growing impatient with Facebook for being too slow in clarifying the fine print in its terms of service covering what happens to user data and warned that the company could face sanctions. The commission said in a statement that it would examine whether Facebook put in place "appropriate technical and organizational measures to ensure the security and safeguarding of the personal data it processes." The commission said earlier this week the number of EU accounts potentially affected numbered less than 5 million. Ireland, which is Facebook's lead privacy regulator for Europe, is moving swiftly to investigate the U.S. tech company since the breach became public on Friday. Facebook said Friday attackers gained the ability to "seize control" of user accounts by stealing digital keys the company uses to keep users logged in. They could do so by exploiting three distinct bugs in Facebook's code. The company said it has fixed the bugs and logged out the 50 million breached users plus another 40 million who were vulnerable to the attack in order to reset those digital keys. Facebook said it doesn't know who was behind the attacks or where they're based. Neither passwords nor credit card data was stolen. At the time, the company said it alerted the FBI and regulators in the U.S. and Europe. Facebook on Wednesday didn't immediately return a request for comment. Facebook has faced a tumultuous year of security problems and privacy issues . News broke early this year that a data analytics firm once employed by the Trump campaign, Cambridge Analytica, had improperly gained access to personal data from millions of user profiles. Then a congressional investigation found that agents from Russia and other countries have been posting fake political ads since at least 2016. In April, Zuckerberg appeared at a congressional hearing focused on Facebook's privacy practices. The European Union implemented stronger data and privacy rules, known as General Data Protection Regulation, in May. The case could prove to be the first major test of GDPR. Under the new rules, companies could be hit with fines equal to 4 percent of annual global turnover for the most serious violations. In Facebook's case, that could amount to more than $1.6 billion based on its 2017 revenues. The new rules also require companies to disclose any breaches within 72 hours. The commission said Facebook informed it that its internal investigation is continuing and that it is taking actions to "mitigate the potential risk to users." Drinking and partying in high school have not changed much since 1982, the year Brett Kavanaugh allegedly sexually assaulted Christine Blasey Ford when they were both teenagers. Kavanaugh, who has denied the accusation, is now a Supreme Court nominee. But the allegation has raised questions about the prevalence, the morality and the legality of risky behaviors by young people. Has the dynamic of drinking and sexual assault among high schoolers changed much over the years? "[The parties are] usually at one of the kid's houses, and the parents aren't there," said Alayah McIntosh, who graduated in May 2018 from Norfolk Academy in Virginia. "Usually, there will be kids hanging out inside the house, all throughout the house. Sometimes, there are hookups going on in different rooms in the house," McIntosh said. Experts say numbers show those behaviors have declined, but only slightly. Underage drinking by 12- to 20-year-olds gradually declined between 1993 and 2013, according to the National Survey of Drug Use and Health. Statistics about sexual violence are less clear. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) says sexual violence has fallen by half in the past 20 years. However, a study by the National Institute of Justice suggests that reporting rape to police when it occurs has become more common in recent decades. Another risk for girls and young women is being drugged into sexual submission. Drinks can be "spiked," usually with hard alcohol, or can be laced with a sedative called Rohypnol, also known as "roofies." McIntosh described a friend being drugged, or roofied, against her will at a house party. "She thought she was watching her drink the whole night, but she ended up getting roofied. We never found out who did it. She wasn't drinking heavily at all. It was like, her second drink. She thought she was OK, but then she started stumbling around, and she ended up passing out," McIntosh said. "High school party culture is sort of like college party culture still a ton of drinking," said Nate Tinbite, who attends John F. Kennedy High School in Glenmont, Maryland, and is the president of the Montgomery County Student Government. Ford testified to the Senate Judiciary Committee last week that she feared Kavanaugh was "going to accidentally kill" her during the alleged incident in 1982. Her testimony has led more girls and women to come forward with their own stories. Ananya Tadikonda, a student representative on the Montgomery County Board of Education in Maryland, said the party culture and male behavior described by Ford is not more prevalent in private schools than it is in public. "Assault culture is so pervasive," Tadikonda told VOA. It would surprise her, she said, if more girls came forward to report their assault. "Especially if it's a young girl that's my age. Because honestly, it took this many years for Dr. Ford to come forward, and that's because there's such a societal condemnation and victim-blaming culture that exists," she said. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, underage drinkers (aged 12 to 20) account for 11 percent of all alcohol consumption in the United States. "I know that a lot of kids in my year drank," said Isabel Cabezas, an alumna of Holton Arms (Ford's alma mater). Cabezas chose not to drink alcohol until college, but she said many of her friends drank, and she was often left out for refusing to participate. "I can recall one incident where I was not invited to a party after a dance because I did not want to drink," she said. The memory of the drinking culture at her school contributed to her believing Ford's testimony, which moved her so much that she spent a day at the U.S. Capitol with other protesters. Counterdemonstrators were also there, supporting Kavanaugh. "All of her claims are so credible," Cabezas said of Ford. "So, I wanted to go support her because I think that it definitely is seen as a last-minute political move. But when you take a step back and consider that she started writing this letter to her congressperson before it was announced that Brett Kavanaugh was the nominee, I don't think that it's a political last-moment movement at all." The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance has launched an investigation following a New York Times report that says U.S. President Donald Trump used questionable schemes and outright fraud to avoid paying taxes and greatly increase his fortune, which started with money from his parents. The agency began the probe Tuesday at the request of New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio. "Ive directed NYCs Department of Finance to immediately investigate tax and housing violations and to work with NY State to find out if appropriate taxes were paid," de Blasio, a Democrat, wrote Tuesday evening in a post on Twitter. Trump likes to portray himself as a self-made man, saying he started with a relatively modest $1 million loan from his father and built his riches through investments and deals. But in an extensive and detailed 40,000-word story, the Times reports Trump received about $413 million from his father, Fred Trump, a New York real estate mogul. Fred Trump began funneling money to Donald Trump and his siblings when they were young children and the newspaper said they are still getting money from the real estate empire today. The newspaper reported that Trump helped his father build up his fortune by dodging taxes, including what the paper calls improper tax deductions. The report alleges Donald Trump schemed to underestimate the value of Trump real estate holdings to sharply reduce the tax bill. The Times also reports Donald Trump and his siblings set up a fake corporation to hide large cash gifts from their father. According to the newspaper, tax records show the Trump family paid just a fraction of the taxes they were obligated to pay to the federal government under the tax code. Without denying any wrongdoing, Trump dismissed the Times report on Tuesday on Twitter, describing it as a "very old, boring and often told hit piece on me." Late Tuesday, the White House released a statement regarding the Times' story. Fred Trump has been gone for nearly twenty years and its sad to witness this misleading attack against the Trump family by the failing New York Times. Many decades ago the IRS reviewed and signed off on these transactions. The New York Times and other media outlets credibility with the American people is at an all time low because they are consumed with attacking the president and his family 24/7 instead of reporting the news," White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a statement. "... The New York Times can rarely find anything positive about the President and his tremendous record of success to report. Perhaps another apology from the New York Times, like the one they had to issue after they got the 2016 election so embarrassingly wrong, is in order," her statement said. The newspaper based its story on interviews with Fred Trump's former employees and more than 100,000 pages of documents, including the elder Trump's personal tax returns. Apparently, none of the president's tax returns was used to write the Times report. President Trump has broken with White House tradition and refused to release his returns. A Trump lawyer, Charles Harder, said in a statement Tuesday that "The New York Times allegations of fraud and tax evasion are 100 percent false and highly defamatory. There was no fraud or tax evasion by anyone. The facts upon which The Times bases its false allegations are extremely inaccurate." A statement from President Trump's brother, Robert, points out that Fred Trump died in June 1999 and says the Internal Revenue Service closed his estate two years later. He said the Trump family has no further comment on the allegations and appeals to everyone to let Fred and Mary Anne Trump rest in peace. The New York Times said according to tax experts, President Trump is unlikely to face criminal prosecution for tax fraud because the alleged crimes took place too long ago. But the experts told the Times he could still face civil penalties and fines. White House Bureau Chief Steve Herman contributed to this report. German Chancellor Angela Merkel arrived in Israel on Wednesday for the latest in a series of joint government consultations highlighting the countries close bond seven decades after the Holocaust, even as recent developments have tested the tight ties. Her two-day visit is expected to focus on bilateral economic issues, with an emphasis on innovation, technology and development projects. But looming in the background will be sharp differences in Israeli and German policies toward Iran and the Palestinians. Merkel, who is accompanied by much of her Cabinet, a large business delegation and her new czar for combatting anti-Semitism, will visit Israels Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial and receive an honorary doctorate from Haifa University. Its the seventh such joint government meeting since Israel and Germany established the tradition a decade ago. Merkel headed to Jerusalem shortly after landing for dinner with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Germany is Israels largest trading partner in Europe and for the past few decades has been perhaps its strongest ally. Israel was established three years after the end of World War II, and the German government has paid billions in reparations to Holocaust survivors and positioned itself as a leader in combatting anti-Semitism. But differences have been exacerbated following the election of U.S. President Donald Trump. Netanyahu has been one of Trumps staunchest international supporters, lauding him for pulling out of the Iranian nuclear deal that Merkel and other world leaders helped negotiate in 2015. Netanyahu says the deal, which curbed Irans nuclear program, does not include enough safeguards to prevent the Islamic Republic from developing a nuclear weapons capability. Trump also has largely refrained from criticizing Israeli settlement activity in the West Bank a frequent European complaint recognized Jerusalem as its capital and moved the U.S. embassy there. He also has cut funding to the Palestinians and fully pinned the blame for stalled Mideast peace talks on them. Netanyahus rapport with Merkel has been cordial and even cool at times. Merkel has continued to champion the traditional approach to peacemaking, calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state and for Israel to refrain from unilateral steps to undermine its prospect. Germany, for instance, has been among the European countries calling on Israel to refrain from carrying out its plans to demolish a West Bank hamlet it says was illegally built. Israel has offered to resettle the 180 Bedouin Palestinian residents of the Khan al-Ahmar encampment a few miles (kilometers) away. But Palestinians and their European backers say the demolition is aimed at displacing Palestinians in favor of settlement expansion and would deal a devastating blow to hopes for Palestinian statehood. Israels Supreme Court recently rejected a final appeal against the plans and residents are bracing for the move any day. Israeli forces are unlikely to carry it out though during Merkel's brief stay for fear of sparking a crisis. Regardless, Israeli officials say they dont expect that issue or Merkels long held preference to maintain the Iran deal to overshadow the visit, which is expected to bring about new economic agreements, the creation of a formal youth exchange and a renewed commitment to combating anti-Semitism, after Israel raised alarm over several recent cases in Germany. Shimon Stein, a former Israeli ambassador to Germany, said that despite the Israeli governments growing alliances with several eastern European countries in the battle against radical Islam, Germany remains its strongest and most significant European backer. These routine consultations have created a symbolism for the relationship that should not be overlooked, he said. Germany doesnt always see eye to eye with Israel ... but it is the leading supporter of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state. The two countries established diplomatic ties in 1965, after which Germany began paying reparations for the Nazi-led Holocaust in which 6 million Jews were murdered. The first joint consultation was in March 2008, when Merkel and her Cabinet arrived to mark the 60th anniversary of Israels independence. During that three-day visit, Merkel addressed the Israeli parliament, in German, and expressed shame over the Holocaust. The 20-minute speech earned Merkel a standing ovation. Mexico and Canada on Tuesday urged their governments to resolve a tariff dispute with the United States before signing a new trilateral trade deal that was unveiled this week. In late May, the Trump administration announced tariffs of 25 percent on steel imports and 10 percent on aluminum imports, prompting quick retaliation from top trading partners including Canada and Mexico. Late on Sunday, the United States and Canada reached a deal to overhaul the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), complementing an accord the Trump administration brokered with Mexico, the third member of NAFTA, in late August. Mexican steel producers association Canacero welcomed the new trade pact, called the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), but said it viewed "with concern" the ongoing steel dispute and the "serious situation" it created for the industry. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs would remain in place for Canada and Mexico until they "can do something different like quotas, perhaps." In a statement, Canacero said it supported efforts to find a solution to the impasse before the leaders of Mexico, the United States and Canada signed USMCA, which officials say could happen at a G20 summit at the end of November. If no solution can be found, Mexico should put tariffs on U.S. steel to level the playing field, Canacero said. Mexico has already slapped tariffs on U.S. pork, bourbon, motor boats and other products. Canada has levied tariffs on a range of U.S. imports, including steel and aluminum. Joseph Galimberti, president of the Canadian Steel Producers Association, said he expected Canada's government to continue to support the industry after the USMCA breakthrough. "There is clearly an opportunity to constructively engage the United States between the achievement of a deal in principle and the ratification or signature of that deal," he said. Canada is the top exporter of steel and aluminum to the United States. The United Steelworkers of Canada adopted a less conciliatory tone after the new trade deal was announced, calling it a "sell-out" for Canadian workers. Mexican officials have said they hope the steel and aluminum dispute can be resolved before USMCA is signed. Since the tariff row broke out, Mexican steel exports to the United States had fallen 30 percent on average, Canacero said. High above Yemen's rebel-held city of Hodeida, a drone controlled by Emirati forces hovered as an SUV carrying a top Shiite Houthi rebel official turned onto a small street and stopped, waiting for another vehicle in its convoy to catch up. Seconds later, the SUV exploded in flames, killing Saleh al-Samad, a top political figure. The drone that fired that missile in April was not one of the many American aircraft that have been buzzing across the skies of Yemen, Iraq and Afghanistan since Sept. 11, 2001. It was Chinese. Across the Middle East, countries locked out of purchasing U.S.-made drones due to rules over excessive civilian casualties are being wooed by Chinese arms dealers, who are world's main distributor of armed drones. "The Chinese product now doesn't lack technology, it only lacks market share,'' said Song Zhongping, a Chinese military analyst and former lecturer at the People's Liberation Army Rocket Force University of Engineering. "And the United States restricting its arms exports is precisely what gives China a great opportunity.'' The sales are helping expand Chinese influence across a region crucial to American security interests. "It's a hedging strategy and the Chinese will look to benefit from that,'' said Douglas Barrie, an airpower specialist at the International Institute for Strategic Studies. "I think the Chinese are far less liable to be swayed by concerns over civilian casualties,'' he said. At the start of the year, a satellite passing over southern Saudi Arabia photographed U.S.-made surveillance drones at an airfield, alongside Chinese-manufactured armed ones. According to the Center for the Study of the Drone at New York's Bard College, that was the first documented example of the two drone systems being used in the war in Yemen. The country has emerged as a "sort of a testing ground for these strike-capable drones,'' said Dan Gettinger, the co-director of the Center for the Study of the Drone. "There's a rapid turnaround from delivery to deployment.'' U.S. drones were first used in Yemen to kill suspected al-Qaida militants in 2002. One of the biggest Chinese exports is the Cai-Hong, or Rainbow, series made by the state-owned China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp., or CASC, the largest contractor for the Chinese space program. CASC's CH-4 and CH-5 models are on a par with San Diego-based General Atomics' Predator and Reaper drones, and much cheaper. Independent analysts say the Chinese models lag behind their American counterparts but the technology is good enough to justify the price tag, which might be half or less. A CASC executive, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to journalists, said cutting-edge U.S. models like Boeing Co.'s Stingray, introduced this year for the U.S. Navy, still hold a technological advantage. And while price is an advantage, so too is a more relaxed attitude toward how drones are used, said Ulrike Franke, an expert on drones and policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations Since 2014, China has sold more than 30 CH-4's to countries including Saudi Arabia and Iraq in deals worth over $700 million, according to CASC. Ten countries are currently in negotiations to purchase the CH-4, according to the firm. Last year, China sold to the UAE the Wing Loong II, an armed unmanned aerial vehicle roughly equivalent to the American MQ-9 Reaper. "In recent years, all types of drones have proven their value and importance through a high degree of use in warfare, and the military has noticed,'' said the top CASC executive. "Many countries are now speeding up the development for these weapons systems, including China.'' During President Xi Jinping's five years in power, China has stepped up spending on stealth fighters and aircraft carriers for its own military, while boosting sales of advanced equipment such as attack submarines to close allies like Pakistan. China still lags behind the U.S., Russia, France, and Germany in total arms sales but it's catching up. Chinese arms exports rose by 38 percent between 2008-12 and 2013-17, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, which tracks the global arms trade. Mounting criticism over the rising civilian death toll in Yemen prompted the U.S. to impose restrictions on drone sales, forcing foreign countries to go through the U.S. government to buy armed drones, including those with laser-guidance systems. The Washington-based New America Foundation estimates more than 240 drone strikes in Yemen have killed more than 1,300 people, including at least 111 civilians. But with China's drone sales booming, there's growing pressure from U.S. arms makers to remove restrictions to let them catch up. After some U.S. lawmakers urged President Donald Trump to loosen controls and let General Atomics sell its armed Reapers to Jordan and the UAE, the administration on April 19 permitted U.S. manufacturers to directly market and sell drones, including armed versions. The government must still approve and license the sales, which are also contingent on human rights and proliferation reviews and congressional authorization. General Atomics did not respond to a request for comment. China doesn't routinely announce arms sales like the U.S. and others, but a review of drone spottings gives some indication of who its customers are. _ In Iraq in October 2015, the country's then-defense minister inspected a CH-4 drone at an air base in the city of Kut. _ Chinese armed drones have been operating at Jordan's Zarqa Airport, at an air base in Pakistan and from bases in Egypt in the Sinai Peninsula and near its border with Libya, according to satellite photos analyzed by the Center for the Study of the Drone. _ Satellite photographs taken of a mysterious air base in the United Arab Emirates' deep south _ a desert area known as the Empty Quarter _ appear to show three Wing Loong IIs, IHS Jane's Defense Weekly reported in January. _ Two CH-4s were spotted by satellite alongside surveillance-only Predators purchased by the UAE at Jizan Regional Airport in southern Saudi Arabia, near the kingdom's border with Yemen, according to the Center for the Study of the Drone. _ Outside of the Mideast, Nigeria has used Chinese armed drones against the Islamic extremist group Boko Haram. Newer birth control for men is beginning to fill the gap between the traditional condoms and sterilization. One new technology involves inserting a hypodermic needle into the scrotum. It is said to decrease libido. For men, contraception had remained fairly stagnant for the past century, primarily limited to condoms (85 percent effective when used correctly) and vasectomy, which is usually permanent. New methods are trying to move beyond centuries-old contraception applications, and some younger men say they are enthusiastic about the prospects. But they want them to be safe. Contraceptives are necessary regardless of which partner is using them, said Shane Sullivan, a senior at Colgate University in New York. But, Im adverse to solutions that may induce side effects. But as with contraception for women, methods free of side effects are hard to come by. Nestorone-Testosterone is a hormonal birth control gel for men thats been in the making for more than a decade. The gel is applied to the arms and shoulders every day and works to shut down hormones responsible for sperm production. But because it drops testosterone levels, reported side effects include a low libido or problems with ejaculation. Meanwhile, scientists at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland have developed a daily birth control pill called DMAU. It lowers testosterone and sperm production, which decreases the likelihood of pregnancy, according to a study by the University of Washington Medical Center and at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Torrance, California. All participants who tried DMAU noted some weight gain and a decrease of high-density lipoproteins (HDL, good cholesterol responsible for healthy cardiovascular functioning). Despite having low levels of circulating testosterone, very few subjects reported symptoms consistent with testosterone deficiency or excess, said the studys senior investigator, professor of medicine Stephanie Page at the University of Washington in Seattle. DMAU is a major step forward in the development of a once-daily male pill, Page said. Many men say they would prefer a daily pill as a reversible contraceptive, rather than long-acting injections or topical gels, which are also in development. Contraceptives such as Vasalgel block the vas deferens, or the tubes through which sperm travel, with the injection of a gel into the scrotum. The Indian developer of Vasalgel licensed it to non-profit company Parsemus Foundation in the U.S., which focuses its development on innovative but neglected pharmaceutical advances. Vasalgel can last a few months to a few years. It has shown minimal adverse impacts and the developer calls it the IUD for men because it is non-hormonal. Robert McLachlan, professor of mens health at Monash University in Melbourne, found another injectable option for men. McLachlan designed an intramuscular shot delivered in the buttocks, increasing testosterone, which greatly reduces sperm production. The most common side effects for the injectable hormonal contraceptive included acne, injection site pain, mood disorders, and an increased libido. In a survey conducted with 134 young adults aged 18-27, of which 61 were male, their average likelihood of supporting male contraceptives was 8.6 on a scale from 1 to 10, (1 being the least likely and 10 being the most like to support.) Of all the respondents, 29 percent were quick to note that hormonal contraceptives for women already include the side effects that some of the newer drugs would present for men. Brennan Sullivan, a 24-year-old research assistant from Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions (JHMI) noted the impact a male-dominated medical field has on women. He emphasized that male contraceptives should not be seen as equivalent to female birth control, and explained how many scientists have not considered these biological differences between men and women when developing medications. Ahead of Food and Drug Administration approval for oral contraceptives for women in 1960, couples relied on withdrawal and condoms to prevent pregnancy. Soon, women on the early forms of the Pill began to complain of side effects that included hormone imbalance, weight gain, acne, and mood changes because of high estrogen levels. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (CDC), nearly 30 percent of users stopped oral contraceptives, and dosage was modified to balance contraception with user tolerance. Despite successful findings and trials, the pharmaceutical industry thinks there is a relatively small market for male contraceptives, so it may be a while before these drugs actually hit the shelves. McLachlan noted the industry was involved in this research until about five years ago and both the big companies that were involved one pulled out [of research] about a decade ago. Seeing as theyre the same side effects as most female birth control options, its not too bad, said Pavan Devraj, a sophomore at the University of Georgia. Jameson Carter, a research assistant at the Library of Congress, also expressed support. I think this stuff has to start somewhere. I understand it wont be as convenient as just using a condom, given the side effects. Id try it. Some men see birth control as an opportunity to be equally accountable for contraception. Men should absolutely engage in the same difficult choices that women do if they choose to engage in sexual activity, said Mishka Naiker, 22 and a recent graduate from the University of Alabama. Women are biologically more responsible for the existence and welfare of a child, even though the creation of a fetus takes both a man and a woman. That is the only time the responsibility is honestly 50/50. Wazir Hossain, a 24-year-old recent graduate from the University of Georgia, agrees and says its great for men to have some form of control over the outcome of a situation and hold themselves accountable. Computer programmer Kaden Weaver, 23, expressed concerned about potential side effects. I am fully supportive of male contraceptive options similar to birth control, but I feel as though things with these side effects dont belong in the human body. That attitude is not embraced in all parts of the world. The responsibility for family planning routinely falls to women, and contraception is not accessible to an estimated 214 million women in developing countries, according to a report by the Guttmacher Institute. The recovered guns were part of a shipment from the Ruger factory in North Carolina, and the truck they were in was scheduled to leave Memphis for Texas at 8 a.m. Sunday, according to ATF affidavits filed in court. The theft happened sometime between 3 and 4 a.m. Sunday, and Midlothian police were called to the Walgreens parking lot shortly after 3 p.m. that day. North Korea's nuclear and missile tests have stopped, but its hacking operations to gather intelligence and raise funds for the sanction-strapped government in Pyongyang may be gathering steam. U.S. security firm FireEye raised the alarm Wednesday over a North Korean group that it says has stolen hundreds of millions of dollars by infiltrating the computer systems of banks around the world since 2014 through highly sophisticated and destructive attacks that have spanned at least 11 countries. It says the group is still operating and poses "an active global threat." It is part of a wider pattern of malicious state-backed cyber activity that has led the Trump administration to identify North Korea along with Russia, Iran and China as one of the main online threats facing the United States. Last month, the Justice Department charged a North Korean hacker said to have conspired in devastating cyberattacks, including an $81 million heist of Bangladesh's central bank and the WannaCry virus that crippled parts of Britain's National Health Service. DHS offers warning On Tuesday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security warned of the use of malware by Hidden Cobra, the U.S. government's byword for North Korea hackers, in fraudulent ATM cash withdrawals from banks in Asia and Africa. It said that Hidden Cobra was behind the theft of tens of millions of dollars from teller machines in the past two years. In one incident this year, cash had been simultaneously withdrawn from ATMs in 23 different countries, it said. North Korea, which prohibits access to the world wide web for virtually all of its people, has previously denied involvement in cyberattacks, and attribution for such attacks is rarely made with absolute certainty. It is typically based on technical indicators such as the Internet Protocol, or IP, addresses that identify computers and characteristics of the coding used in malware, which is the software a hacker may use to damage or disable computers. But other cybersecurity experts tell The Associated Press that they also see continued signs that North Korea's authoritarian government, which has a long track record of criminality to raise cash, is conducting malign activity online. That activity includes targeting of financial institutions and crypto-currency-related organizations, as well as spying on its adversaries, despite the easing of tensions between Pyongyang and Washington. "The reality is they are starved for cash and are continuing to try and generate revenue, at least until sanctions are diminished," said Adam Meyers, vice president of intelligence at CrowdStrike. "At the same time, they won't abate in intelligence collection operations, as they continue to negotiate and test the international community's resolve and test what the boundaries are." North Korea attacks continue CrowdStrike says it has detected continuing North Korean cyber intrusions in the past two months, including the use of a known malware against a potentially broad set of targets in South Korea, and a new variant of malware against users of mobile devices that use a Linux-based operating system. This activity has been taking place against the backdrop of a dramatic diplomatic shift as Kim Jong Un has opened up to the world. He has held summits with South Korean President Moon Jae-in and with President Donald Trump, who hopes to persuade Kim to relinquish the nuclear weapons that pose a potential threat to the U.S. homeland. Tensions on the divided Korean Peninsula have dropped and fears of war with the U.S. have ebbed. Trump this weekend will dispatch his top diplomat, Mike Pompeo, to Pyongyang for the fourth time this year to make progress on denuclearization. But North Korea has yet to take concrete steps to give up its nuclear arsenal, so there's been no let-up in sanctions that have been imposed to deprive it of fuel and revenue for its weapons programs, and to block it from bulk cash transfers and accessing to the international banking system. FireEye says APT38, the name it gives to the hacking group dedicated to bank theft, has emerged and stepped up its operations since February 2014 as the economic vise on North Korea has tightened in response to its nuclear and missile tests. Initial operations targeted financial institutions in Southeast Asia, where North Korea had experience in money laundering, but then expanded into other regions such as Latin America and Africa, and then extended to Europe and North America. In all, FireEye says APT38 has attempted to steal $1.1 billion, and based on the data it can confirm, has gotten away with hundreds of millions in dollars. It has used malware to insert fraudulent transactions in the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication or SWIFT system that is used to transfer money between banks. Its biggest heist to date was $81 million stolen from the central bank of Bangladesh in February 2016. The funds were wired to bank accounts established with fake identities in the Philippines. After the funds were withdrawn they were suspected to have been laundered in casinos. Cyber attacks an alternative The Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington think tank, said in a report Wednesday that North Korea's cyber capabilities provide an alternative means for challenging its adversaries. While Kim's hereditary regime appears to prioritize currency generation, attacks using the SWIFT system raise concerns that North Korean hackers "may become more proficient at manipulating the data and systems that undergird the global financial system," it says. Sandra Joyce, FireEye's head of global intelligence, said that while APT38 is a criminal operation, it leverages the skills and technology of a state-backed espionage campaign, allowing it to infiltrate multiple banks at once and figure how to extract funds. On average, it dwells in a bank's computer network for 155 days to learn about its systems before it tries to steal anything. And when it finally pounces, it uses aggressive malware to wreak havoc and cover its tracks. "We see this as a consistent effort, before, during and after any diplomatic efforts by the United States and the international community," said Joyce, describing North Korea as being "undeterred" and urging the U.S. government to provide more specific threat information to financial institutions about APT38's modus operandi. APT stands for Advanced Persistent Threat. Large Chile bank hacked The Silicon Valley-based company says it is aware of continuing, suspected APT38 operations against other banks. The most recent attack it is publicly attributing to APT38 was against of Chile's biggest commercial banks, Banco de Chile, in May this year. The bank has said a hacking operation robbed it of $10 million. FireEye, which is staffed with a roster of former military and law-enforcement cyberexperts, conducted malware analysis for a criminal indictment by the Justice Department last month against Park Jin Hyok, the first time a hacker said to be from North Korea has faced U.S. criminal charges. He's accused of conspiring in a number of devastating cyberattacks: the Bangladesh heist and other attempts to steal more than $1 billion from financial institutions around the world; the 2014 breach of Sony Pictures Entertainment; and the WannaCry ransomware virus that in 2017 infected computers in 150 countries. Arrayed between elegant stone buildings and run-down railway tracks in the northwest of Paris lie bustling playgrounds, plant-filled ponds and stretches of lush grass. The Clichy-Batignolles area, a former industrial wasteland, has morphed into the French capital's first "eco-neighborhood," billed as a model of sustainable development for the rest of the city. Clarisse Genton, project coordinator for the Clichy-Batignolles district, said it aims to be "environmentally responsible" with solar panels on homes and clean geothermal energy for heating, for example. But the eco-effort also has a social aim: to address the city's affordable housing crisis and ensure green benefits reach the poor as well as the rich. "We wanted to create a district that's accessible to all and to bridge the gap between poor and rich parts of the city," said Genton, referring to the neighboring posh district of Monceau and the poorer La Fourche. Paris is one of more than 70 cities worldwide that have pledged to become "carbon neutral" by 2050, meaning they will produce no more climate-changing emissions than they can offset, such as by planting carbon-absorbing trees. Each is going about achieving the goal in its own way. But because cities account for about three-quarters of carbon dioxide emissions, according to the U.N., and consume more than two-thirds of the world's energy, whether they succeed or fail will have a huge impact on whether the world's climate goals are met. "Cities are where everything comes together: homes, transport, public spaces so there's a real role for them to help create the living places of the future," said Eliot Whittington, director of the Prince of Wales' Corporate Leaders Group, a coalition of businesses promoting climate action. "We've got to a state of accepting a certain level of waste and energy [use], but climate change [and] heat waves affect us all and have a real toll on people's lives," he told Reuters. Global warming is currently set to exceed the more ambitious limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degree Fahrenheit) called for in the 2015 Paris Agreement to curb climate change, according to a draft U.N. report due for publication in October. Following public consultations, Paris adopted its climate action plan in March. It aims to make the city carbon-neutral and entirely powered by renewable energy by 2050. From swimming pools heated by sewage to ensuring the city is fully "cyclable" by 2020, it includes more than 500 initiatives to reimagine Paris as a zero-carbon capital. 'Green lung' The Clichy-Batignolles area of 54 hectares (130 acres), once chosen as Paris's Olympic village as part of the city's failed 2012 bid, is built around a 10-hectare park containing a skate park, deck chairs and wooden bridges. Martin Luther King Park acts as a "green lung" and an "island of coolness" for the neighborhood, said Genton, showing a miniature model of the district to two passersby. "Rainwater is channeled toward wetlands rather than discharged into sewers, and household waste is collected through an underground pneumatic system removing the need for garbage trucks," she added. Buildings are heated by a new geothermal plant, and about two-thirds of homes are equipped with solar panels on their roof. But the eco-district is about more than energy efficiency and biodiversity, said Genton, adding that "we urgently need affordable homes in a city that cannot grow and where prices are skyrocketing." Half of the neighborhood's newly built flats qualify as social housing and can be rented for about 300 euros a month, she said. Local residents have so far warmed to their new neighborhood, and say they feel "more connected" to the rest of the city, she said. But many still await the arrival of a promised metro line, which should help reduce traffic and public transport congestion in the area, Genton said. Virgile Geraud, a retired carpenter who has lived in Clichy-Batignolles for 40 years and is considering renting one of the new homes, said that "this new park, these new buildings ... it's really nice, it's a change of lifestyle." "But some people think the new buildings are too tall or too modern," he added, pointing to a bright yellow crane looming over a half-completed building. Denis Musanga, who two months ago moved to Clichy-Batignolles from the Paris suburb of Villiers-le-Bel, said he was "shocked by how clean it is, even at night." He is less convinced of the "affordable" label, however, saying that he pays 650 euros for one room in a two-bed flat "much more than what I paid in the suburbs." Citizen-led If zero-carbon initiatives are to succeed, citizens need to buy into them, according to the city of Paris' climate plan, which received hundreds of proposals from residents to improve their city. Fortunately, many ways of cutting emissions can also help people be more comfortable or save money, experts said. Improving home insultation, for instance, can curb emissions, make people more comfortable and make a "significant difference" in their energy bills, Whittington said. "Loft insulation for example is one of the easiest things to do, but what holds people back from doing it is the hassle. When do you do it? How do you clear the loft?" European cities have come a long way in improving energy efficiency in buildings and homes, he said, but still have a "huge body of old, inefficient buildings." "That's a missed opportunity to tackle energy waste and improve people's lives," he said. Aiming to tackle this is France's Passeport Efficacite Energetique (Energy Efficiency Passport) a project led by think tanks and companies such as French utility EDF. It encourages householders to renovate their homes step by step. Still in its pilot phase, the project involves auditing the energy efficiency of homes and storing any progress made such as the use of more efficient lighting with an online tool. Musanga, whose building is not yet equipped with solar panels, said he is open to the idea but "wants proof" that going greener can save him money. "If it helps the planet, then that's a bonus," he said, tying on his rollerblades before disappearing into the distance. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to Asia Saturday and will meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Sunday, as the pair begin making arrangements for a second summit between the United States and North Korea. While Washington had forecasted the trip for some time, it comes days after Seoul acknowledged Pyongyang may have stockpiled as many as 60 nuclear weapons. The task of setting up a framework for denuclearization discussions may prove difficult. One year into North Koreas outreach to the world, theres been a growing number of nations calling for Pyongyang to receive some sanctions relief as a positive incentive for its behavior, said Evan Rees, Asia Pacific analyst at Stratfor. The U.S. has really gotten to the point where the maximum pressure front is getting increasingly hard to maintain, especially in the face of pressure from China and Russia, said Rees. WATCH: Pompeo Faces Challenges Setting Up Second Trump, Kim Summit Beijing and Moscow called on the United Nations Security Council to re-evaluate sanctions last month. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the warmer ties and "positive developments" between North and South Korea, as well as better relations with the United States, should lead to sanctions relief. Washington disagrees, saying economic sanctions against the North will remain in place. Enforcement of U.N. Security Council sanctions must continue vigorously and without fail until we realize the fully, final, verified de-nuclearization, Pompeo said when chairing the Security Council last month, calling on its members to set the example on that effort and we must all hold each other accountable." But its not only long-time North Korean allies that are looking for sanctions to be re-examined. Seoul has requested exemptions or exceptions to sanctions to carry out the inter-Korean cooperation efforts. RAND Corporation senior political scientist Michael Mazarr said if Washington alone is trying to leverage its economic might to force other countries to sustain sanctions that they really don't want to sustain, that's a very bad diplomatic position to be in. Pompeos task: set the stage Analysts say this next summit must yield something more substantive than the June 12 Singapore Summit. Mazarr postulates that if Secretary Pompeo was to be able to secure a package of steps for both sides to take that are significant from [the] North Korean standpoint eventually leading to the dismantlement of several facilities under international inspectors, I think [that] would give very significant legitimacy to the idea that the process of tension reduction and confidence building...is actually going to lead to practical steps toward denuclearization. Some theorize that a declaration for declaration approach is needed to move the process forward. But for the United States to move toward declaring an end to the war, Rees stresses that requires getting some concessions from North Korea. He said thats going to be a challenge, since Pyongyang feels it has already done a lot thus far, citing the lack of missile and nuclear tests, in addition to the dismantling of the Punggye-ri and Sohae (Tongchang-ri) test facilities. However, North Korea said, through commentary on its state-run news site KCNA, that declaring the end of the Korean War can never be a bargaining chip for getting North Korea to denuclearize, adding that officially declaring an end to the conflict should have been resolved half a century ago. Last week in New York, North Korea's foreign minister, Ri Yong Ho, called the current stalemate over denuclearization Washingtons fault. "The recent deadlock is because the US relies on coercive measures which are lethal to trust-building," he said. Mazarr told VOA the United States past actions have also been detrimental. One of the failures of sort of the first real run at negotiating a solution to the nuclear issue, the Agreed Framework in the 90s, was that North Korea didn't get the economic benefits that it thought it was going to get, he said. One of the lessons I think North Korea learned, was when you bend to the U.S. will and begin to move down that road (toward denuclearization), you better be absolutely certain that you're getting whatever payoffs you expect to get out of it up front, because you can't count on getting them afterward, he added. Which leads Mazarr to conclude Pyongyang will not accept complete denuclearization before sanctions are lifted or other concessions are made by Washington. Advantage: Pyongyang Rees said to some extent the U.S. has lost the advantage (in negotiations) by coming to the table in the first place and now the pressure is on Washington to be more conciliatory [and] more cooperative because that belligerent posture just doesn't play anymore. That was evident, Rees said, by Chinas actions at the UNSC, where it portrayed the United States as the bad guy in this situation, saying Washington provoked North Korean to make things worse. Mazarr also suggested North Korea may have a stronger negotiating position because of the efforts made by the Moon administration to facilitate better inter-Korean ties. If the United States were to try to say no, North Korea, that's not enough. It's not fast enough. It's not significant enough. We demand more, or else, he said. He said the likely North Korean answer will be Or else what? because South Korea will not condone any sort of military threat. Poisoned former spy Sergei Skripal has found it difficult to accept the Russian government tried to have him killed earlier this year, according to a new book published this week by a BBC journalist. According to reporter Mark Urban, who has interviewed the former spy, Skripal has struggled to come to terms with the nerve-agent assassination bid on him and his daughter, Yulia. Urban confirms that Skripal briefed Western intelligence services as recently as last year on Russian operations, but the book falls short of explaining why Skripals former colleagues in the Russian military service, the GRU, decided to try to kill him this year, just weeks before Russian leader Vladimir Putin was campaigning for reelection. According to interviews in the book, The Skripal Files: The Life and Near Death of a Russian Spy, Skripal did brief the British security services on a1990s-era corruption scheme involving among others Nikolai Patrushev, a top Russian intelligence chief and Putin ally. Skripal and his daughter survived a nerve-agent attack in March that the British government has blamed on the Kremlin, arguing evidence points to the assassination orders coming from the top of the Russian government. A local woman not connected to the original attack in the English cathedral town of Salisbury died in July after being exposed to the same toxin, which was contained in a discarded perfume bottle dumped in a trash bin. Britain, the United States and most European Union countries responded to the Salisbury attack with expulsions of Russian diplomats and financial sanctions on Russia. The Kremlin denies any involvement in the attack and has maintained variously that the poisoning never happened, that it was carried out by Britain in order to blame Russia or that unknown third parties were responsible. Skripal was a double agent for British intelligence in the 1990s. In December 2004 he was arrested by Russian authorities, tried, convicted of high treason and sentenced to 13 years in prison. He was included in a 2010 spy swap and settled in Salisbury. Skripal was betrayed by a Russian mole inside Spanish intelligence, Urban writes. Wednesday, at an energy forum in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin went off script to describe Skripal. I see that some of your colleagues are pushing the theory that Mr. Skripal was almost some kind of human rights activist, Putin remarked. He was simply a spy. A traitor to the motherland. There is such a concept a traitor to the motherland. He was one of those. He's simply a scumbag, that's all, he added. In the book, Urban describes several meetings he had with with Skripal in 2017, about nine months before the poisoning. Skripal said he didnt want to be quoted directly, saying, You see, we are afraid of Putin. Above all, he wanted to avoid offending the Kremlin, so Yulia and his son, Sasha, could visit him without hindrance from Moscow. And he wasnt completely at odds with the Kremlin when it came to some political and foreign-policy issues, according to Urban, especially over Moscows relations with Ukraine. Another big question, the book doesnt answer, is why the attack was so botched, say analysts and intelligence insiders. The Russian intelligence services has a fearsome reputation when it comes to assassination and abductions overseas. But it has had its fair share of bungled missions, too. But analysts and Western intelligence officials are querying whether the Salisbury attack was just a matter of clumsy spy "tradecraft" or a display of arrogant defiance by the GRU. Both of the alleged hitmen made little effort to disguise their tracks and used the same aliases and false passports on several trips across Europe, a former British intelligence officer told VOA. That is either shoddy tradecraft or a demonstration of insouciance, he added. The British government has publicly identified the men by the aliases it claims the men used, Ruslan Boshirov and Alexander Petrov. Moscow has responded derisively to reports claiming one of the two men suspected of the poisoning is a highly decorated GRU colonel in Russian military intelligence, Anatoly Chepiga, who was awarded the Hero of Russia medal, the countrys highest honor. Chepiga has been spotted in a photograph displayed at his former military academy, according to a report Tuesday by RFE/RL's Russian Service and the open-source investigative consortium Bellingcat. The photograph adds to recent disclosures by Bellingcat that have used data from passport databases, online photographs, and military records to shed light on "Boshirovs" GRU ties. According to Russian journalist Serhiy Kaniev, who assisted in the Bellingcat investigations, Chepiga may have played a major role in the evacuation to Russia of deposed Ukraine President Viktor Yanukovych in February 2014, during the Maidan protests. Kaniev has claimed Chepiga's wife Galina, with whom the 39-year-old shares two children, also has worked as an undercover agent overseas. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday strongly defended a prospective Russia-Germany natural gas pipeline as economically feasible and voiced hope that European Union nations will be able to resist U.S. pressure to thwart the project. U.S. officials have warned that Washington could impose sanctions on the undersea Nord Stream 2 pipeline. The U.S. and some EU nations oppose it, warning it would increase Europe's energy dependence on Russia. The U.S. is also interested in selling more of its liquefied natural gas in Europe. Speaking Wednesday after talks with Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz in St. Petersburg, Putin noted that Bulgaria caved in to pressure and dumped the Russian South Stream pipeline. He added that he hopes that "Europe as a whole won't look like Bulgaria and won't demonstrate its weakness and inability to protect its interests." "Russia always has been and will remain the most reliable supplier," Putin said, adding that the Russian gas supplied via pipelines is significantly cheaper than U.S. liquefied gas. "Supplies come directly from Yamal in Siberia. There are no transit risks." It would be "silly and wasteful" if Europe opts for a more expensive option, hurting its consumers and its global competitiveness, Putin charged. Ukraine, which has served as the main transit route for Russian gas supplies to Europe, has strongly opposed the Russian pipeline, fearing that it would leave its pipeline empty. The two ex-Soviet neighbors have been locked in a bitter tug-of-war after Russia's 2014 annexation of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula. Kurz spoke in support of Nord Stream 2 but also emphasized the importance to continue supplies via Ukraine. "It's very important that Ukraine's interests as a key transit country be upheld," he said. Putin has previously pledged to consider the continuation of gas supplies via Ukraine if it settles a commercial dispute with Russia over previous gas supplies. Amid a decline in terror incidents worldwide in 2017, African countries struggled to prevent the expansion of terror groups in parts of the continent, according to a U.S. State Department report on terrorism. "African countries expanded their efforts to develop regional counterterrorism solutions while they struggled to contain the expansion of terrorist groups, affiliates, and aspirants involved in attacks or other activities in 2017," according to the report, released last week. Experts offer different explanations as to why terror groups have been able to expand in the continent. Jacob Zenn, a terrorism expert with the Washington-based Jamestown Foundation, said he believes that when it comes to ideology and development, the former should be given more attention. "When it comes to extremism, intolerant religious teachings need to be countered. If not, jihadists would exploit intolerance and encourage people to express grievances through violence," Zenn said. "Thus, countering the ideology must be paramount. "Naturally governing better is important, too, but in most cases that will be a long process and tackling jihadist groups is an imminent concern," he added. Beyond quick fixes Akinola Olojo, a researcher on transnational threats with the South Africa-based Institute for Security Studies (ISS), however, believes that the existing threat of terrorism in Africa calls for the adoption of international strategies beyond quick fixes. "Countries in Africa and across the world must not assume that the decline in attacks signals the end of efforts aimed at addressing the root causes in affected countries," Olojo said. "There should be an intensification of efforts to address the so-called 'push factors' in communities where socio-economic challenges enable recruitment into terror groups," he added. Olojo expressed optimism that many countries are gradually recognizing the need to go beyond the military option while dealing with the threat of terrorism in the region. East Africa In East Africa, the U.S. report highlights threats posed to the region by al-Shabab terror group. Though it acknowledges that Somalia-based al-Shabab has not carried out any attack beyond Somalia and northeastern Kenya in 2017, the report says the group poses a threat to the security of the entire region. "It [al-Shabab] retained safe haven, access to recruits and resources, and de facto control over large parts of Somalia through which it moves freely," the report said. Some analysts, such as Olojo, charge that al-Shabab's apparent resiliency has a lot to do with its ability to appeal to people who feel marginalized. "Although al-Shabab has also suffered setbacks in terms of defections of its members and casualties, the group still mobilizes propaganda that can appeal to vulnerable audiences in and outside Somalia," Olojo said, adding that online platforms provide the group with the ability to reach out to people beyond Somalia. In October 2017, Somalian officials blamed the group for the deadliest terror attack in Somalia's history, when a truck bomb killed nearly 600 people in the capital, Mogadishu. Asymmetric attacks In the Lake Chad region, the U.S. report highlights a resurgence in asymmetric attacks on civilian, government and military targets by groups like Boko Haram and Islamic State. Scott Stewart, vice president of tactical analysis for Stratfor, a Texas-based research center, believes that the important issue to follow in the Lake Chad region is the leadership change within the Islamic State branch in West Africa (ISWAP). "If a leadership change of this group [IS] does indeed happen, or has happened, there is concern that these more radical elements may change the targeting of their faction to include more civilian targets. That could mean terrible things for civilians in the region," Stewart warned. He was referring to the emergence of a more radical faction of IS and reports that Mamman Nur, the de facto leader of ISWAP in the region, has been killed by the new radical IS faction. Zenn, of Jamestown Foundation, agrees with Stewart that ISWAP [Islamic State West Africa Province] has been, for the most part, very consistent with its attacks against military targets and has been relatively successful. "As a result, ISWAP began to administer territories more effectively than [Boko Haram leader Abubakar] Shekau and focus their targets on the military, not civilians, which has seemingly benefitted their insurgent campaign," Zenn said. But Stewart warns that with the new leadership, Islamic State, like the Shekau faction of Boko Haram, will shift its focus to non-military targets in the region. Sahel region In the Sahel region, the U.S. report notes an umbrella of al-Qaida-affiliated groups and an Islamic State affiliate in the region have expanded their operations in central Mali and in the border regions of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. To counter the threat, the three countries joined with Chad and Mauritania to form the G5 Sahel Force to fight the militants, but experts say one major challenge of counterterrorism efforts in the region has been the vast, porous and unpopulated border regions of the three countries. "The borders are long and porous and ethnic groups straddle on both sides of the borders, and terrorist groups know that states can be hesitant to chase them across the border of another nation. So they exploit everything they can," Zenn said. Jonathan Sears, a researcher with Centre FrancoPaix, University of Quebec in Montreal, Canada, argues that part of the problem has also been the apparent shortcomings in the provision of public services to the population in central Mali, which allowed militant groups such as al-Qaida and Islamic State to exploit people's grievances. "Where there is a lack of state public service provision, [these] so-called terror groups are providing some services, which strengthen their links within the population," Sears told VOA. A Saudi journalist who has written Washington Post columns critical of the kingdom's assertive crown prince has gone missing after visiting the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul, the newspaper and his supporters said Wednesday, raising concerns over his safety. Jamal Khashoggi's personal website bore a banner saying "Jamal has been arrested at the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul!" without elaborating. A statement from Saudi Arabia later denied that and said Khashoggi left immediately after visiting the consulate, though his fiancee waited for hours for him outside Tuesday before calling for help. The vigil continued Wednesday, as his supporters linked his disappearance to the arrest of other businessmen, politicians and activists amid 33-year-old Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's rise to power. "He went in, and as far as I know, he didn't come out. And if he did exit, we have no news of him. His phones are with me. I have the keys to his house here," his fiancee told The Associated Press. "Something has happened to him and we don't know what and how it has happened." Khashoggi, 59, is a longtime Saudi journalist, foreign correspondent, editor and columnist whose work has been controversial in the past in the ultraconservative Sunni kingdom. He went into a self-imposed exile in the United States following the ascension of Prince Mohammed, now next in line to the throne to his father, the 82-year-old King Salman. As a contributor to the Post, Khashoggi has written extensively about Saudi Arabia, including criticizing its war in Yemen, its recent diplomatic spat with Canada and its arrest of women's rights activists after the lifting of a ban on women driving. "The arrests illuminate the predicament confronting all Saudis. We are being asked to abandon any hope of political freedom, and to keep quiet about arrests and travel bans that impact not only the critics but also their families," Khashoggi wrote in a May 21 column for the Post. "We are expected to vigorously applaud social reforms and heap praise on the crown prince while avoiding any reference to the pioneering Saudis who dared to address these issues decades ago." On Tuesday, Khashoggi entered the consulate to get paperwork he needed in order to be married next week, said his fiancee Hatice, who gave only her first name for fear of retribution. He gave her his mobile phones for safekeeping, something common as embassies throughout the Middle East routinely require phones to be left outside as a security precaution. "I don't know what has happened to him. I can't even guess how such a thing can happen to him," his fiancee said. "There is no law or lawsuit against him. He is not a suspect, he has not been convicted. There is nothing against him. He is just a man whose country doesn't like his writings or his opinions." The Post said it remained "very concerned" about Khashoggi. "It would be unfair and outrageous if he has been detained for his work as a journalist and commentator," the Post's international opinions editor, Eli Lopez, said in a statement. "We hope that he is safe and that we can hear from him soon." The U.S. State Department said it was aware of Khashoggi's disappearance and said it was "seeking more information at this time." Turkish police later came to the consulate and reviewed footage from two surveillance cameras outside. That footage showed Khashoggi entered the building, but never left, said a friend of the writer, who spoke on condition of anonymity as his job barred him from speaking to journalists. A Turkish security official said Wednesday that authorities were in discussions with Saudi consular officials about Khashoggi's situation. "Our efforts are continuing," the official said, without elaborating. The official spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations that bar officials from speaking to journalists without prior authorization. A statement Wednesday from Saudi Arabia sent to the AP instead said that "Mr. Khashoggi visited the consulate to request paperwork related to his marital status and exited shortly thereafter. "The government of Saudi Arabia follows up diligently on any reports related to the safety of any of its citizens and will continue to follow up on these reports," the statement said. It did not elaborate. Khashoggi was known for his interviews and travels with Osama bin Laden between 1987 and 1995, including in Afghanistan, where he wrote about the battle against the Soviet occupation. In the early 1990s, he tried to persuade bin Laden to reconcile with the Saudi royal family and return home from his base in Sudan, but the al-Qaida leader refused. Khashoggi maintained ties with Saudi elite and launched a satellite news channel, Al-Arab, from Bahrain in 2015 with the backing of Saudi billionaire Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal. The channel stayed on the air for less than 11 hours before being shut down. Its billionaire backer was detained in the Ritz Carlton roundup overseen by Prince Mohammed in 2017. "Presently, Saudi citizens no longer understand the rationale behind the relentless wave of arrests," Khashoggi wrote in an Aug. 7 column. "These arbitrary arrests are forcing many into silence, and a few others have even quietly left the country." He offered this advice to the kingdom: "There is a better way for the kingdom to avoid Western criticism: Simply free human rights activists, and stop the unnecessary arrests that have diminished the Saudi image." South Africa has announced that Kiswahili will be introduced as an optional language in schools by 2020. The move was welcomed by many who want to see the language, known in English simply as Swahili, become the first African language spoken across the continent. Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party leader Julius Malema says Swahili, which is spoken by more than a hundred million people across East and Central Africa, provides Africa with a chance to free itself from colonial shackles. "We must have a language that unites Africans. If Kiswahili can be developed and become a continental language, and then we do away with speaking to each other in English," he said. English is unlikely to lose its status as one of the most widely spoken tongues in Africa, where more than 23 countries recognize it as an official language. By comparison, Swahili is an official or national language in five of Africa's 54 countries the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda. But unlike English, Swahili could provide a more native connection between African people. "It's a Bantu language for Africa and Bantu is everywhere," said Isa Kenya, a Kenyan national living in Johannesburg. "Even in South Africa, Zulus they speak all the same as the Kiswahili and it will be easiest for Africa people to communicate when the African Union opens the border." Swahili has for centuries been the language of commerce in East Africa, becoming a second language to tens of millions across trading routes. Sipho Mutema, principal of the Christians' Institute of Learning in Johannesburg, believes the language can help unify the continent. "Learning about the depth and wideness of one's language, it is a way of finding one's identity. I think it will bring togetherness, something that I will call Africanness," he said. Others argue that on a continent with 1.2 billion people and more than 2,000 languages, Kiswahili has more than a few hurdles to leap before becoming Africa's common language. A top South Sudanese official says the government opposes creation of a war crimes court, a key aspect of the peace deal which the country's warring parties recently reaffirmed. The projected court would be a hybrid of South Sudanese judges and international war crimes experts, tasked with trying those accused of committing atrocities during South Sudan's nearly five-year civil war. Civil society activists say the "hybrid court" should be established without delay to end rampant impunity in South Sudan. But speaking to reporters in Juba this week, Information Minister Michael Makuei labeled the court "a tool of regime change by the troika" the United States, Britain and Norway. Makuei said anything that presents an obstacle to implementation of the peace agreement is unwelcome, but he argued the troika countries and other regional bodies should prioritize peace. "The hybrid court is an instrument they want to use against the people of South Sudan, especially the leadership of South Sudan. They want to use it in a sense that because the agreement gives the hybrid court the right to indict anybody at any time and once you are indicted, you are apprehended and taken to jail," he said. Last month, the U.S. State Department urged the Kiir administration to set up the hybrid court to ensure that the perpetrators of crimes including widespread killings of civilians face justice. Human Rights Watch has echoed that call. The troika also raised concerns about President Kiir's recent amnesty offer, which they say could derail the process of accountability. Makuei said the international community should focus on bringing sustainable peace to South Sudan by promoting reconciliation, healing and peaceful co-existence, and worry about accountability later. "Instead of you pressing for the establishment of a hybrid court, why don't you go in for compensation and healing process, for reparation and compensation and you go in for the reconciliation? Once you start all these, automatically you will be dismantling whatever plans people have for the hybrid court," Makuei argued. Civil society activists said South Sudanese need accountability now, which goes hand in hand with peace. Jackline Nasiwa, head of the Juba-based Center for Inclusive Governance Peace and Justice, a local NGO that worked on the peace deal, said Makuei's argument does not make sense. "This debate of saying peace first and justice later shouldn't have come now, after the peace [deal] is signed, because by virtue that Chapter Five is part of the peace agreement and then it has to be implemented as it is. What citizens are calling for is an end to impunity," Nasiwa told VOA's South Sudan in Focus. Chapter Five of the revitalized peace agreement spells out the establishment of the hybrid court as well as compensation and reparations for the victims of crimes committed during the conflict. Nasiwa said the Kiir administration is trying to create the false impression that the hybrid court is a foreign concept. James Okuk, a political science lecturer at the University of Juba, said the hybrid court is a crucial part of the agreement to which all the parties must adhere. "After eight months when the government is formed, this is where we will have the headache of the hybrid court of South Sudan and you will not do away with it because it is part of the agreement," Okuk told VOA's South Sudan in Focus. How much did movie fans hate "Star Wars: The Last Jedi"? Perhaps not as fiercely as social media might suggest, according to a U.S. academic study which found that half of negative tweets about the 2017 movie came from bots, trolls or political activists, some of whom may be Russian. "Star Wars: The Last Jedi," which focused on aging Jedi Luke Skywalker's reluctance to be drawn back into the battle against the dark side in the sci-fi saga, prompted criticism online after its December 2017 release. Many lashed out at key roles given to women and actors of color in the movie, while others were dismayed at the apparent death of Skywalker, played by Mark Hamill. The Disney movie took $1.3 billion at the global box-office, compared to $2 billion for 2015's "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." A study by University of Southern California (USC) research fellow Morten Bay, released on Monday, analyzed the language, Twitter handles and IP addresses of more than 1,200 tweets sent to "Last Jedi" director Rian Johnson's Twitter handle in the seven months after the film's release. "Overall, 50.9 percent of those tweeting negatively was likely politically motivated or not even human," Bay wrote. He said they appeared to be using the debate around "The Last Jedi" "to propagate political messages supporting extreme right-wing causes and the discrimination of gender, race or sexuality." "A number of these users appear to be Russian trolls," Bay added in the paper, called "Weaponizing the Haters: The Last Jedi and the strategic politicization of pop culture through social media manipulation." Disney did not respond to a request for comment on the research but Johnson said on Twitter that the overall findings were "consistent with my experience online." "This is not about fans liking or not liking the movie - I've had tons of great talks with great fans online and off who liked and disliked stuff, that's what fandom is all about. This is specifically about a virulent strain of online harassment," Johnson tweeted on Tuesday. Bay compared his findings to other studies around attempts to influence Americans through social media platforms. Bay said the likely objective was to increase "media coverage of the fandom conflict, thereby adding to and further propagating a narrative of widespread discord and dysfunction in American society." A U.S. Senate panel has been examining reported Russian efforts to influence U.S. political public opinion before and after the 2016 election of President Donald Trump. If BYS fulfills the terms of the lease, it could remain in the building rent-free for another 10 years, until 2031. I asked Crotty if the township would consider renegotiating the lease. Would she consider stretching payments out over more years to ease the financial burden on BYS? President Bashar al-Assad told a little-known Kuwaiti newspaper that Syria had reached a "major understanding'' with Arab states after years of hostility over the country's civil war. The interview in the Al-Shahed newspaper, published Wednesday, was Assad's first with a Gulf newspaper since the war began in 2011. Assad didn't name the Arab countries but said Arab and Western delegations had begun visiting Syria to prepare for the reopening of diplomatic and other missions. Soon the civil war will be over, Assad told the paper's publisher, allowing Syria to resume its pivotal role in the region. Syria's membership in the 22-member Arab League was suspended in the early days of the war and Arab countries later imposed economic sanctions after they failed to mediate an end to the war. Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other members of the Gulf Cooperation Council have openly supported opposition groups fighting to overthrow Assad since. Kuwait hosted a number of donors' conferences for aid to Syrians, but it also condemned violence blamed on the Syrian government. The interview came on the heels of a surprisingly warm meeting between the Syrian foreign minister and his Bahraini counterpart on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly on Saturday. The meeting turned heads because it featured hugs between the two ministers. The encounter raised questions about whether the Gulf countries, most of them sworn enemies of Assad's ally Iran, are reconsidering their relations with Damascus as the war winds down. Assad in control Assad, embattled for years, is emerging largely victorious after strong support from Russia and Iran. He now controls over 60 percent of Syria with strong Russian and pro-Iranian military support. Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the Bahraini foreign minister, later told Saudi-run Al-Arabiya TV that it was not the first meeting with "my brother'' the Syrian minister. But he said it was an unplanned meeting, while other planned ones weren't caught on camera. Al Khalifa said the meeting came at a time of serious Arab efforts to "reclaim'' a role in resolving the Syrian crisis. "This meeting comes at this period that is witnessing positive transformations toward having an effective Arab role in the Syrian issue,'' Al Khalifa said in the Sunday interview with Al-Arabiya. "Syria is an Arab country. Its people are Arabs and what happens there concerns us before any other nation. It is not correct that regional and international countries are looking into the Syrian issue and not us.'' Al Khalifa seemed to recognize that the Syrian government is here to stay. "The Syrian government is the Syrian government,'' he said. "We work with states even if we disagree with them and not with those who bring down those states.'' Assad praised Kuwait's position regarding Syria in the interview with Al-Shahed, calling its leader "a problem solver.'' Al-Shahed's editor in chief is one of the many members of the extended Kuwaiti royal family. The paper was temporarily shut down in 2010 and 2014 for insulting the judiciary and the public prosecutor and for publishing false news. Its editor in chief was sentenced to three months behind bars in 2010. The U.N. children's fund warns that tens of thousands of child survivors of the devastating earthquake and tsunami Friday in Sulawesi, Indonesia, are unprotected and vulnerable to exploitation. UNICEF reports that children make up more than one-third of the population of Central Sulawesi, and 43 percent of the children live in poverty. In addition, many suffer from chronic malnutrition or stunting, a condition makes children more prone to disease and infection and impairs their physical and mental development. UNICEF spokesman Christophe Boulierac says the agency is concerned about the children who have been orphaned or separated from their parents by the disaster, which has killed more than 1,400 people and displaced 70,000 others. "This is also a region with a low birth registration," he said. "Only 33 percent of children are registered. Birth registration is of paramount importance in terms of child protection. It is a passport to protection. This low birth registration is an issue for family tracing process ... in addition to well-known risks of exploitation and trafficking." Children who have no birth certificate are officially invisible. They cannot access basic services, such as health, social welfare and education, and they are at increased risk of being trafficked, sexually exploited and forced into child labor. UNICEF says it is deploying social workers to the affected areas to provide psychosocial services for separated and unaccompanied children and to trace and reunify families. The agency is asking for $5 million to provide essential needs, including medical and health services, water and sanitation, food and non-food items, and emergency shelter. Takako Arai's earliest memories are of Tsukiji, playing hide-and-seek with her brother in the concrete maze of Tokyo's sprawling fish market. Years later, she now runs the family's seafood stall that sells mackerel and yellowfin tuna. Arai and hundreds of other fish traders are reluctantly packing up and preparing to leave Tsukiji this week for a gleaming new $5 billion market on reclaimed land farther from central Tokyo. "I feel torn. I grew up here and I feel like we're losing so much of our history by leaving this place," said Arai, 45. The 83-year-old market, a popular tourist attraction, is a warren of shops and warehouses where small turret trucks zip around laden with ice-filled boxes of fish. But city officials say it has become dilapidated and unsanitary. Many fishmongers want to stay in the area where they also live. They worry about contaminated soil at the new site in Toyosu, and the difficult commute to the new market. More than 80 percent of Tsukiji fish traders are opposed to the move, said a survey by a group fighting the relocation. In a last-ditch bid to delay the move, 56 traders sued the city of Tokyo last month, seeking a temporary injunction. They have asked the court to rule before Tsukiji closes on Saturday. If there are no delays, business will resume at the new Toyosu market on Oct. 11, but traders worry their customers will not follow them. Arai, whose family have been fish traders for 95 years, said buyers have already told her the new site is inconvenient. "They say they're going to buy from other markets nearer to their restaurants," she said. "What can I say? They're business people too." Fewer customers will make it hard to recoup the hundreds of thousands of dollars each fish trader expects to pay for the move, including replacing freezers and refrigerators. Some 300 fishmongers and activists voiced their anger during a protest at Tsukiji last Saturday, chanting "Toyosu No No No," and waving banners saying "Stop the Relocation!" Tourists visiting one of Tokyo's most famous landmarks paused in the rain to join the chants. "We finally made Tsukiji a famous brand and now they're trying to destroy it," said Kiyoshi Kimura, who owns one of Japan's largest sushi chains, Sushi Zanmai. His gravelly voice rising as he wept, Kimura recalled opening his first sushi restaurant in Tsukiji 17 years ago in a bid to draw tourists and revive the market. Kimura is famous for his winning bids at the market's New Years auction, where in 2013 he paid a record $1.76 million for a bluefin tuna. "They have no compassion. That's it," Kimura told Reuters. "These bureaucrats have forgotten that human beings live here. It's all about money for them." Final days The relocation plan has been delayed many times since it was conceived 17 years ago. In 2016, toxic substances were found in soil and groundwater at Toyosu, once home to a gas plant. Tokyo spent an extra 3.8 billion yen ($33.5 million) to dig hundreds of wells to pump out groundwater. In July, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike declared the new site safe after experts signed off on additional cleanup measures, but some fish traders remain skeptical. An official with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government said Tsukiji had long supported the city's residents with its lively market, but it was important for that tradition to continue in a new location with better sanitary conditions. The old Tsukiji site will provide temporary parking for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and eventually become a tourist center. Tsukiji feels like a village with its own medical clinics, a bank, library and shops, but with some 40,000 workers and tourists passing through on its busiest days. In its final days, the market is still a frenzy of activity. Men unload, sort, pack and display thousands of cartons of white boxes filled with fresh fish and seafood trucked in from ports across Japan. During the early morning auctions, traders use hand signals to buy and sell fish. The day's catch is typically carted to a hangar where traders sell their seafood to buyers strolling down the chaotic cobblestone walkways under large store signs. Koji Amano, one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, started working at Tsukiji after dropping out of high school. Now 47, he and two brothers manage a stall specializing in bluefin tuna, or "maguro," considered the king of sushi. As he filleted a hulk of tuna with a sword-like knife, Amano was resigned to Tsukiji's fate. "They're determined to move us out," he said. "So there's not much we can really do to stop them." The top U.N. court has ordered the United States to lift sanctions on Iran involving medicine, food and airplane parts in the latest step in a legal battle over measures the Trump administration put back in place earlier this year. Iran had complained to the International Court of Justice the U.S. move to reimpose sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 international nuclear agreement violated a 1955 agreement between the United States and Iran. The court said in a Wednesday ruling on provisional matters in the case the U.S. sanctions could endanger civil aviation safety in Iran, and the measures affecting food, medicine and medical devices could have detrimental impacts on the health and lives of Iranians. The ruling directed the United States to "remove, by any means of its choosing, any impediments" affecting the free import of products in those sectors. It further called on both countries to "refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the court or make it more difficult to resolve." The court's rulings are binding, but it does not have a way to enforce them. There was no immediate U.S. reaction, but Iran's foreign ministry welcomed the decision. The U.S. had argued its national security concerns were sufficient to impose the sanctions, a move that came after President Donald Trump in May declared Iran non-compliant with the nuclear deal that had brought sanctions relief in exchange for limiting Iran's nuclear program.. The U.N. atomic energy agency, which is in charge of monitoring the agreement, has reported Iran is in compliance. Anglo-Dutch giant Unilever topped a list on Tuesday ranking how well food and drink companies tackle the risk of forced labor in their supply chains, ahead of Kellogg Company and Coca-Cola. Most of the 38 companies assessed in a study by KnowTheChain, an online resource for business, had improved their practices since 2016. But the average score was 30 out of 100, the report said, suggesting all companies need to step up action to ensure ethical production. "Forced labor remains a major problem in the production of popular food and beverage products," Kilian Moote, project director for KnowTheChain, said in a statement. "Progress for workers is not moving fast enough. Companies across the board must do better to make demonstrable improvements for workers." About 25 million people globally were estimated to be trapped in forced labor in 2016, according to the International Labor Organization and rights group Walk Free Foundation. From tea pickers on isolated estates to laborers on remote cocoa farms, agricultural workers tend to be harder to reach than those in factories, making them particularly vulnerable to exploitation, said KnowTheChain. Growing demand for fuel, food and raw materials is also pushing agricultural work into more remote rural areas, putting workers at greater risk, it added. Agriculture production tends to involve seasonal or temporary work and much of it is quota based, leaving workers vulnerable to exploitation or wage theft, KnowTheChain said. Although many of the 38 companies had policies and commitments relating to forced labor in place, it said the majority did not provide evidence of those policies in practice. They appeared to be taking "little or no action" to listen to or empower workers across supply chains, the report added. Unilever, whose 400 brands include Lipton tea, Magnum ice cream, Hellmann's mayonnaise and Colman's mustard, retained its top spot since the first food and beverage report in 2016, scoring 69 out of 100, ahead of Kellogg at 66 and Coca-Cola 62. Meat company WH Group, which owns the world's largest pork business, and packaged foods company Almarai scored zero. Neither were immediately available for comment. The report looked at areas including worker recruitment processes, efforts to source raw materials responsibly, monitoring and grievance mechanisms. The U.S. government says Americans should not panic when their cellphones simultaneously sound an alarm on Wednesday as the federal government tests, for the first time, its presidential wireless emergency alert system. Authorities are assuring the public in advance this is only a test, but in a real national emergency such as the detection of an incoming ballistic missile, a coordinated terrorist attack or even a cataclysmic volcanic eruption the same tone would be heard. Those with their mobile devices switched on at 2:18 p.m. EDT (18:18 GMT) will hear a unique loud tone while the device simultaneously vibrates. A message box will pop up on screens, informing: "THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed." Two minutes later, those watching broadcast and cable television or listening to AM and FM radio stations will also likely see or hear a similar alert, interrupting programming for about 1 minute, as part of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) combined national test of the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and Emergency Alert System. The exercise had been scheduled for Sept. 20, but was delayed until Oct. 3 due to the impact of Hurricane Florence in North and South Carolina. Mobile devices targeted It is estimated by FEMA that at least 75 percent of targeted mobile devices about 225 million cellphones in the United States will successfully sound the alert within a 30-minute period. The test is being conducted, in part, to determine just how expansive its reach. "If you are engaged in a phone call and are on there for 31 minutes, the emergency alert is not going to interrupt that call," a FEMA official said, adding that devices engaged in "active data sessions" would also not be interrupted by the alert. Since 2012, government agencies have issued regional alerts more than 36,000 times for severe weather warnings and missing abducted children (the latter known as Amber Alerts). Wednesday's alert, however, will be the first national alarm sounded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Communications Commission under an act of Congress approved in 2006 during the George W. Bush presidential administration. The regional WEA alerts began during the administration of Barack Obama. On social media, many are expressing unease with the planned test of the new presidential messaging system because there is no way to opt out. "There is no opting out of the presidential alert, which would only be used in a national emergency," confirms a senior FEMA official. Even if there was a way to decline receiving the messages, that would not be recommended for cellphone users as "they would prevent themselves from receiving critical life-saving information." Others worry that President Donald Trump, an active user of Twitter, will abuse the system and force the public to receive messages from him. "The president will not be directly triggering this alert," the FEMA official explained on a briefing conference call Tuesday. Only for true national emergencies Government officials are assuring that an actual alert would only be sounded for a true national emergency or other public peril, explaining that the law, protocols and procedures are well-established to prevent any president from ordering distribution of another type of message. "You would not have a situation where any sitting president would just wake up one morning and attempt to send a personal message," said the official speaking to reporters on condition of not being named. "The president would not originate this alert from his mobile device." Some remain unconvinced by those assurances. A trio of New Yorkers filed a lawsuit in federal court last month to halt the nationwide test. "I believe that for any public alert, people should be able to opt out," said one of the plaintiffs, Kristine Rakowsky. "We have a right to privacy and not having your phone turned into a loudspeaker like in North Korea." The Southern District of New York court docket indicates summons were issued to Trump and FEMA Director William "Brock" Long on Sept. 26. The motion for a preliminary injunction that would have halted the emergency test was denied Wednesday morning by Judge Katherine Polk Failla. "We have a president who opts to use social media to address the public at large," Rakowksy tells VOA. "And he has as a history of sending unhinged, false and biased messages on Twitter." Even if Trump was not the president, Rakowsky adds, she would still oppose the alert system out of concern that children could be traumatized by automatically receiving an alert they would not fully understand. Like it or not, Rakowsky says she expects to hear Wednesday's test alarm. "I probably won't have my cellphone turned off, because I have to pick up my son," she said. One of the other plaintiffs in the lawsuit, however, may be in the minority unable to receive the alert on Wednesday. Freelance photojournalist Jason B. Nicholas is hiking in the mountains of Vermont. An email sent by VOA to him, requesting comment, generated an automatic reply: Thanks for the email. I'm hiking somewhere out of communication range. I'll be unavailable until Monday, Oct. 8. The United States is pulling out of a 1955 treaty with Iran in response to the International Court of Justice ordering the United States to lift sanctions on Tehran involving medicine, food and airplane parts. The Treaty of Amity established economic relations and consular rights between the two countries. WATCH: US Terminates 1955 Treaty With Iran After ICJ Ruling The withdrawal marks the latest indication of escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. "Our dispute is with the ayatollahs who have taken Iran from a respected position in the international community to being a rogue state, our dispute has never been with the people of Iran," National Security Adviser John Bolton told reporters at the White House. "Our policy is not regime change, but we do expect substantial change in their behavior," added Bolton, explaining that the administration of President Donald Trump, after reimposing sanctions on Tehran, will "do whatever else is necessary to ensure we bring maximum pressure to stop its malign behavior across the board." Iran had complained to the U.N. court that the move by Washington to reimpose sanctions, which had been lifted under the 2015 international nuclear agreement, violated the 1955 treaty. The court said in a Wednesday ruling U.S. sanctions could endanger civil aviation safety in Iran and the measures affecting food, medicine and medical devices could have detrimental impacts on the health and lives of Iranians. The ruling directed the United States to "remove, by any means of its choosing, any impediments" affecting the free import of products in those sectors. It further called on both countries to "refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the court or make it more difficult to resolve." The court's rulings are binding, but it has no means to enforce them. Iran's foreign minister welcomed the court's decision, tweeting that the ICJ decision is a "victory for the rule of law" over an "outlaw regime." Bolton sees it differently, telling reporters the court ruling is "a defeat for Iran" as "it correctly rejected nearly all of Iran's requests, but we are disappointed that the ICJ failed to recognize that is has no jurisdiction to issue any order with respect to sanctions the United States imposes to protect its own essential security under the treaty." At the State Department prior to Bolton's remarks, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters "Iran is abusing the ICJ for political and propaganda purposes." Pompeo added that "given Iran's history of terrorism, ballistic missile activity, and other malign behaviors, Iran's claims under the treaty are absurd." The U.S. reimposition of sanctions on Iran came after Trump in May declared Tehran non-compliant with the 2015 multinational deal that had brought sanctions relief in exchange for limiting its nuclear program. The U.N. atomic energy agency, which is in charge of monitoring the agreement, has reported Iran is in compliance of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Agreement, signed between Iran and the P5+1 (the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council plus Germany). Iran is not dismantling its nuclear programs and reports indicate it is actually increasing them, according to Bolton. Responding to a claim by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Iran has a "secret atomic warehouse" and the International Atomic Energy Agency should inspect the site, the head of the U.N.'s nuclear watchdog, Yukio Amano, replied "the agency sends inspectors to sites and locations only when needed. The agency uses all safeguards relevant to information available to it but it does not take any information at face value." Asked by VOA about the Israeli claim and the IAEA response, Bolton termed "extremely impressive" the evidence obtained by Israel. "We've been very supportive of the Israeli effort and supportive of the IAEA taking new steps to follow up on it," said Bolton. The IAEA repeatedly has indicated that Iran remains in compliance with the nuclear deal. The national security adviser also announced the Trump administration is reviewing all other international agreements that could expose it to binding decisions by the ICJ. "We will commence a review of all international agreements that may still expose the United States to purported binding jurisdiction, dispute resolution in the International Court of Justice," Bolton said. "The United States will not sit idly by as baseless politicized claims are brought against us." One immediate withdrawal ordered by Trump, according to Bolton, is the optional protocol on dispute resolution to the Vienna Convention. "This is in connection with a case brought by the so-called State of Palestine naming the United States as a defendant, challenging our move of our embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem," explained Bolton. "I'd like to stress the United States remains a party to the underlying Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and we expect all other parties to abide by their international obligations under the convention." U.S. first lady Melania Trump continues the first leg of her week-long tour of the African continent Wednesday -- her first major solo international trip since moving into the White House in 2017. Mrs. Trump passed out blankets and teddy bears to newborn infants and their mothers at a hospital in Ghana's capital, Accra, shortly after her arrival Tuesday. 'Be Best' campaign The first lady is using her visits to Ghana, Malawi, Kenya and Egypt to further expand and promote her "Be Best" initiative that focuses on children's overall well-being. WATCH: Melania arrives in Ghana Her goodwill tour comes several months after a public firestorm over President Donald Trump's reported use of a vulgar term to describe the continent, triggering accusations of racism. "The trip by the first lady I think will show that Americans, American policy, and the administration are all multi-faceted and are considerably more than two or three tweets," John Campbell, a senior fellow for Africa policy studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, told VOA. But Judd Devermont, Africa program director at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, says a more important factor will overshadow Melania Trump's visit to Africa. "Given that this is in extraordinary times with the sense, that the President's not engaging on Africa and has disparaging views about the continent, I think it has an opportunity to have a positive effect," Devermont said. "The bigger question though is that it is taking place when there are questions about what the broader strategy is. And I think that's going to be difficult for the first lady" US Aid cuts The Trump administration called for significant cuts in humanitarian aid programs for Africa in its budget proposals, but those cuts were blocked by Congress. Melania Trump's African itinerary also includes Malawi, Kenya and Egypt. Americans across the country heard their cellphones simultaneously sound an alarm on Wednesday as the federal government tested, for the first time, its presidential wireless emergency alert system. Authorities assured the public in advance this was only a test, but in a real national emergency -- such as the detection of an incoming ballistic missile, a coordinated terrorist attack or even a cataclysmic volcanic eruption -- the same tone would be heard. Those with their mobile devices switched on at 2:18 p.m. EDT (18:18 GMT) heard a unique loud tone while the device simultaneously vibrated. A message box popped up on screens, informing: THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed. Two minutes later, those watching broadcast and cable television or listening to AM and FM radio stations were also likely see or hear a similar alert, interrupting programming for about 1 minute, as part of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) combined national test of the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and Emergency Alert System. The exercise had been scheduled for September 20, but was delayed until October 3 due to the impact of Hurricane Florence in North and South Carolina. Mobile devices targeted It was estimated by FEMA that at least 75 percent of targeted mobile devices about 225 million cellphones in the United States -- would successfully sound the alert within a 30-minute period the test is being conducted, in part, to determine just how expansive its reach. If you are engaged in a phone call and are on there for 31 minutes, the emergency alert is not going to interrupt that call, a FEMA official said, adding that devices engaged in active data sessions would also not be interrupted by the alert. Since 2012, government agencies have issued regional alerts more than 36,000 times for severe weather warnings and missing abducted children (the latter known as AMBER Alerts). Wednesday's alert, however, was the first national alarm sounded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Communications Commission under an act of Congress approved in 2006 during the George W. Bush presidential administration. The regional WEA alerts began during the administration of Barack Obama. On social media, many expressed unease with the test of the new presidential messaging system because there is no way to opt out. There is no opting out of the presidential alert, which would only be used in a national emergency, confirms a senior FEMA official. Even if there was a way to decline receiving the messages that would not be recommended for cellphone users as they would prevent themselves from receiving critical life-saving information. Others worry that President Donald Trump, a very active user of Twitter, would abuse the system and force the public to receive messages from him. The president will not be directly triggering this alert, the FEMA official explained on a briefing conference call on Tuesday. VOA queried White House officials to determine whether the Trumps cell phones also received the presidential alert, but they declined to comment, citing security concerns about his mobile devices. Only for true national emergencies Government officials are offering assurances that an actual alert would only be sounded for a true national emergency or other public peril, explaining that the law, protocols and procedures are well-established to prevent any president from ordering distribution of another type of message. You would not have a situation where any sitting president would just wake up one morning and attempt to send a personal message, said the official speaking to reporters on condition of not being named. The president would not originate this alert from his mobile device. Some remain unconvinced by those assurances. A trio of New Yorkers filed a lawsuit in federal court last month to halt the nationwide test. I believe that for any public alert, people should be able to opt out, one of the plaintiffs, Kristine Rakowsky, said. We have a right to privacy and not having your phone turned into a loudspeaker like in North Korea. The Southern District of New York court docket indicates summons were issued to Trump and FEMA Director William "Brock" Long on September 26. The motion for a preliminary injunction that would have halted the emergency test was denied Wednesday morning by Judge Katherine Polk Failla. "We have a president who opts to use social media to address the public at large," Rakowksy tells VOA. "And he has as a history of sending unhinged, false and biased messages on Twitter." Even if Trump was not the president, Rakowsky adds, she would still oppose the alert system out of concern that children could be traumatized by automatically receiving an alert they would not fully understand. Like it or not, Rakowsky said she expected to hear Wednesday's test alarm. "I probably won't have my cellphone turned off, because I have to pick up my son," she said. One of the other plaintiffs in the lawsuit, however, may be in the minority unable to receive the alert on Wednesday. Freelance photojournalist Jason B. Nicholas is hiking in the mountains of Vermont. An email sent by VOA to him, requesting comment, generated an automatic reply: Thanks for the email. I'm hiking somewhere out of communication range. I'll be unavailable until Monday, Oct. 8. There could be up to 4 million Venezuelan migrants living in Colombia by 2021 if the situation in the socialist-run country worsens, Colombia's foreign minister said on Tuesday, estimating the cost at some $9 billion. Venezuelans have been crossing into countries across the region to escape food and medicine shortages and a deep economic crisis. Many have settled in Colombia, with which Venezuela shares a porous eastern border. Nearly one million Venezuelan immigrants already live in Colombia, which has a total population of around 50 million. Their presence could cost the Andean nation about 0.5 percent of its gross domestic product in healthcare, education and infrastructure spending, the government said last week. "In a scenario where the situation worsens, we're talking about 4 million Venezuelans in Colombia," Foreign Minister Carlos Holmes Trujillo said at a migration forum in Bogota, citing a worst-case scenario estimate from a government study he said will be published next week. "Resource requirements would be 26.57 trillion pesos ($8.87 billion)." "We're facing the magnitude of this challenge, which our country has never seen before," Trujillo said, adding that under the worst-case scenario, Colombia "would be obliged to make budget allocation adjustments on the order of 10.5 percent in the coming years." More than 2 million Venezuelans have left their country in recent years, with most arriving in neighboring South American nations, according to the United Nations migration agency. Affected countries have repeatedly asked for more aid to help them cope with migrants' needs. Many Venezuelans arrive with nothing more than what they can carry. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and other top officials of the ruling Socialist Party have dismissed those migration figures as stemming from politically-motivated alarmism and "fake news" meant to justify foreign intervention in the country's affairs. We chatted among ourselves while waiting. We followed the judges instructions and did not discuss the nature of the case that was briefly described to us. Overall, it felt like an extraordinary effort to ensure fairness for the accused and to maintain decorum in the courtroom. When dozens of people died in ethnic clashes last month on the outskirts of Ethiopias capital, Addis Ababa, protesters took to the streets. The government, meanwhile, turned off the internet. Mobile internet service stayed off for about 40 hours. It was the second time this year the internet has gone down in Ethiopia during times of unrest, in addition to a months-long outage that began last year during protests that led to the resignation of former Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn. Officials have yet to explain this latest outage, but activists and journalists believe the typical justification, to ensure public safety in turbulent times, doesnt hold up to scrutiny. Theyre also concerned that the government continues to suppress information and impede journalists, even in the midst of wide-reaching reforms. Restricting the internet has repercussions on freedom of expression, access to information and freedom of speech, Muthoki Mumo, the sub-Saharan Africa representative for the Committee to Protect Journalists, told VOA. Mumo, who is based in Nairobi, added that internet outages can be particularly harmful in times of crisis, when decision-makers need credible, up-to-date information. For Mumo, the two recent shutdowns suggest a worrying trend. Both shutdowns have happened during a time of, during periods of, political tension, Mumo said. Official explanations of internet shutdowns often highlight the danger of allowing information, and misinformation, to flow freely when ethnic tensions flare and reprisal killings are more likely. Atnafu Berhane, an Ethiopian blogger and a co-founder of the Zone9 blogging collective, told VOA that concerns about misinformation are justified, but internet shutdowns arent the solution. To control this misinformation, law enforcement have to do their job according to the law. But in experience, laws have been used to target activists and politicians, Atnafu told VOA. A better option, he said, is to develop media literacy skills and increase social awareness. Journalistic, economic impacts Ethiopias internet penetration rate stands at just 15.4 percent, one of the lowest rates in the world, according to Freedom House, a watchdog group focused on freedom of expression and the press. But many more people have at least limited internet access through mobile devices, and shutdowns can affect their ability to communicate and stay informed. One group especially impacted is journalists, who rely on the internet to connect with sources, communicate with colleagues and publish their work. Workarounds can often be found, but they tend to be neither as efficient nor as safe. I have to communicate, or [am] forced to communicate, information through direct phone, which the government can easily tap and can use it to prosecute human rights activists, Atnafu said. Economic concerns have also been raised in connection to outages. By some estimates, internet blackouts cost Ethiopia in excess of $3.5 million a day. But outages can be targeted based on region, disproportionately affecting certain groups. Most of the time, Oromia or Amhara region were targeted, especially in the Oromia region we had internet shutdown for so long, Atnafu said. Gatekeepers Atnafu believes the government is more interested in controlling information thats true, yet potentially embarrassing, than misinformation. There was no misinformation. They just shut it down. People were targeted and shot due to demonstration, and we have seen photos of protesters dying on the floor, Atnafu said. They were controlling those kinds of information from streaming on social media, not misinformation. Mumo believes theres reason to be optimistic. Since the new prime minister came into power, weve seen some very positive developments in Ethiopia, she said. Those changes include lifting access restrictions on more than 250 websites, the end to a month-long shutdown in April and the fact that the Committee to Protect Journalists believes no journalists are currently imprisoned in Ethiopia. But to safeguard freedom of expression, advocates such as Mumo say unfettered internet access is non-negotiable. We are urging the government to ensure that citizens have access to the internet at all times, especially in times of crisis, when information is so crucial, she said. A Zimbabwean court has ordered Home Affairs Minister Cain Mathema and Police Commissioner General Godwin Matanga to pay more than US$13,000 in damages to 64 year-old Lillian Chinyerere as compensation for the pain she suffered in 2016 after some anti-riot police officers assaulted her during an anti-government protest. High Court Judge Justice Nicholas Mathonsi granted an order compelling Mathema and Matanga to pay damages to Chinyerere for the pain and suffering she endured when some armed riot police officers kicked her repeatedly with booted feet and struck her several times with truncheons, while she was sitting near a courthouse in Harare. According to summons filed in the High Court by her lawyers Kudzayi Kadzere and David Hofisi of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights or ZLHR, Chinyerere, who suffers from high blood pressure and is diabetic, suffered the ignominy of a brutal assault on her aging body in full view of the public and also suffered physical harm as well as harm to her dignity as she was humiliated in full view of the public. The lawyers say she suffered injuries to her back and shoulder and was unable to proceed with her job as a tailor due to the injuries sustained and has since been relying on well-wishers for her sustenance. Kadzere told VOA Studio 7 for Zimbabwe that in court, Matanga and Mathema, who were represented by lawyers from the Civil Division of the Attorney Generals Office, had denied the allegations levelled against ZRP officers and claimed that she had made the assault allegations in a bid to tarnish the image of ZRP. But according to court papers, Justice Mathonsi ordered Matanga and Mathema to pay $13,500 to Chinyerere broken down as $5,000 for damages for pain and suffering, $5,000 being damages for contumelia (indignity), $2,500 being special damages for loss of income and $1,000 as damages for past and future medical expenses. HISTORY OF RIGHTS ABUSES In April this year, a Plumtree magistrate ordered the police and a commuter omnibus driver to compensate a Bulawayo commuter Constance Tshuma, more than US$4,000 after she was shot on the foot by a police officer at a roadblock in Plumtree in 2014. Tshuma, who was a passenger in a commuter omnibus, engaged the ZHLR to claim compensation after her foot was seriously damaged when a police officer allegedly recklessly fired a shot towards the vehicle at a road block in Plumtree to force the driver of a commuter omnibus she was traveling in to stop. In another incident in June, Harare High Court judge Justice Pisirai Kwenda awarded Robson Pumero, a victim of police brutality, $17,172.18 as damages for shock, pain and suffering. The four perpetrators George Pukayi, Officer Gwasunda, Officer Matenga and Officer Bhunu of CID Marlborough are required to pay the amount in their own personal capacities. The four perpetrators are reported to have detained Pumero in September 2017 alleging that he had played a role in the robberies committed by his former neighbor. The officers, who were drinking, assaulted Pumero with beer and soft drink bottles on his hands, shoulders, ankles and knees. They then transported him to the police station where they continued assaulting him using a baton stick with a metal handle until he could not walk. He was released after two days in the cells with no charges leveled against him. Pumero was represented by Mr. Kenias Shonhai, a lawyer at the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum. Prior to his ouster, former President Robert Mugabe, according to Human Rights Watch and other human rights groups, had for decades allegedly presided over intensified repression of the opposition using torture and extrajudicial killings at times. They claimed that his administration disregarded provisions in the countrys 2013 constitution, and implemented no meaningful human rights reforms. A coalition of Zimbabwean human rights groups, the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum has called on President Emmerson Mnangagwa to end abuses allegedly perpetrated by the police. The Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum, which represents 22 organizations, says police officers are still using arbitrary arrests to intimidated perceived government of the opponents. Zimbabwe has not acceded to the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment nor the statute of the International Criminal Court. A Zimbabwean businessman, irked by the recent tax increase in electronic money transfers, says he will challenge the constitutionality of the move if government doesnt reverse it within the next 14 days. Arnold Mutsondi, who runs a number of companies, said hiking of the Intermediated Money Transfer Tax rate which was introduced as a form of tax under the Finance Act IN 2003, is unlawful, unfair, unreasonable and unjustifiable in a democratic society. His lawyer, Alex Majachani, said his client is of the view that the tax violates some provisions of Zimbabwes constitution as Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube arbitrarily increased the tax without any public consultations. He said his client will take the matter to the Constitutional Court if it is not reversed. In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Majachani said, It is an undeniable fact that the purported review of the Intermediated Money Transfer Tax which resulted in an exorbitant, usurious and exponential rate of 2 cents per every dollar is unconstitutional in terms of Section 71 (3) of the Constitution of the Republic of Zimbabwe which clearly prohibits the deprivation of property. The Constitution provides, inter alia in Section 71 (2) that every person has a right to property which includes money. It is our clients fortified view that the move by your esteemed Ministry to arbitrarily impose an exponential tax on its transactions or those of fellow Zimbabweans cannot be accepted in a democratic society. Our clients views are buttressed in the provisions of the Constitution. Majachani said there was no reasonable notice given by the Ministry of Finance before the operationalization of the tax as required under Section 71 (3)(c)(1) of the Constitution. Whilst the levying of the tax is permissible in terms of Section 71 (3) on the basis of a law of general application, Section 71 (3) (i) required reasonable notice to have been given by the Ministry considering the far reaching implications of the tax rate in question. The fact that the Ministry purported to operationalize the usurious tax effectively on the 1st of October 2018 renders the actions by your Ministry unlawful Majachani said the tax increase is set to devastate Zimbabweans facing serious cash shortages. According to Zimbabwes Finance Minister, the upward tax review was necessitated by the informalization of the economy and huge increase in electronic and mobile phone-based transactions and RTGS transactions which amounted to 1.7 billion this year. The Intermediated Money Transfer Tax was reviewed from 5 cents per transaction to 2 cents per dollar transacted, with effect from October 1, 2018. But Zanu PF Central Committee member, Believe Gaule, said the government has increased the electronic money transfer tax in an effort to revive the ailing economy. I will be happy to take a look at the language in the statute, but certainly it is not against state statutes to ask for information, Lauzen said. If Kane County cannot seek reimbursement, the county board can consider just the first portion of the resolution, he said. This content is expired! Unfortunely this content is expired and cannot be viewed anymore; if You are the owner of this content please login to our Website, go to our access panel and enable this content again. Walmart says it's acquiring an online plus-size fashion brand called Eloquii Design, continuing its buying spree of niche brands as it tries to more effectively compete with online leader Amazon. Walmart declined to disclose the purchase price, but it said the move will help it get a foothold in the $21 billion plus-size women's clothing arena. Eloquii also operates five retail stores. Walmart aims to attract younger and more affluent shoppers with its string of acquisitions. Two years ago, it bought Jet.com for more than $3 billion. But at the same time, the company said it is wrestling with soaring health-care costs in the long run. The company said its health-care costs are projected to rise to $20,000 per employee by 2019 and that it needs to start asking workers to absorb some of those namely by paying $145 per month for health care. Workers havent paid premiums in the past. The company said in a statement, We have strict policies that govern what kind of content we place ads on, and if we find a page or website that violates our policies, we take immediate action. Even when a site does not violate our content policies, we understand that advertisers may not want their ads appearing on certain sites or types of content. Thats why we give our advertisers the ability to block certain categories of content if they choose. The sweet smell of the etrog, the feel of the palm branch and twigs in your hand, the sights and sounds of the sukkah around us and the taste of the festivals feasts, Benjaminson added. Brander was unmoved. Why [do] we have to cross the line and go interview the broad population that believes in conservatism when it would never occur to Rush Limbaugh to go interview people in Miss [Alexandria] Ocasio-Cortezs congressional district? he said, referring to the Democratic socialist congressional candidate in New York City. I countered that Limbaugh is an opinion journalist, and The Post, like most American newspapers, takes an objective approach to reporting. Should we abandon the effort to cover both sides, I asked? Id say you are bending over backwards out of concern that you are not serving people you dont agree with, he argued. If you feel that somebody is being underserved, you are going to do extra effort for them. My point is they are not being underserved. Dana Robinson, an Easton, Md.-based teaching associate with the foundation, has been a seeker since his college days in Washington, in the 1960s. He dabbled with meditation and the Rajneesh movement (the same one chronicled in the Netflix series "Wild Wild Country"). Then he found shamanic traditions. Now, over the course of two-day workshops, he shows students how to journey to those worlds, too one of which he describes to me as something like Alice tumbling down the rabbit hole. Neither the court nor the Times is the intended audience of these sorts of statements, she said in an email on Wednesday. The presidents political base ordinary Americans who surely cannot be expected to know the ins and outs of constitutional standards for defamation plaintiffs will hear the threat of lawsuit and register only that the news organization has so crossed the line that the president is going to sue it. This serves to further delegitimize the press and construct it as an enemy that is not to be trusted. Jessica Raven is the executive director of Collective Action for Safe Spaces, a grass-roots organization that describes its role in one sentence on its website: Were working to make DC safer for everyone. She had recently cut back her hours so she could become more involved in the life of her 4-year-old transgender daughter, Max, but she said that before the hearing, she hadnt decided how she was going to spend that time. When she saw the other womans tweets, she said, they struck her because they seemed defensive of Brett Kavanaugh. What we know is one sexual assault is one too many, she said, and we are committed to ensuring campuses have the right framework to know what their responsibilities are, and that students will be able to count on a process that considers those who have survived or have been victims of assault and those who have been accused. That a process is fair and just for everyone involved. In 2014, National Cathedral sophomores shared through an online Google document accounts of unwanted sexual advances at parties, of inappropriate sexual comments, and of sexual and social behaviors that our schools do not condone, according to a letter the girls school sent to parents that December. St. Albans also alerted parents to the issue and acknowledged that some of its students had posted responses to the online document that were inappropriate. The incident drew news coverage and roiled the community. Todays Headlines The most important news stories of the day, curated by Post editors and delivered every morning. Email address By signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy About 4:30 p.m. on July 27, an off-duty D.C. police officer saw two men fighting at 14th Street and Perry Place NW, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, Jessie K. Liu, said in a statement. One man, identified as Alton Rivers, 54, of Northwest, stabbed the other, identified as Anthony Anderson, 68, of Northwest, with a screwdriver, and Anderson died of two stab wounds to the chest, the statement said. Rivers is to be sentenced in December, prosecutors said. If you dont impeach as a consequence of the conduct that Ive just portrayed, he told the Judiciary Committee, then no House of Representatives will ever be able to impeach again. The bar will be so high that only a felon or a traitor will need to be concerned. Two students in the class of 2020 were impacted by the change in the buffer zone and one chose to go to Central and the other chose South. For the class of 2021, the letter states of four students, one went to Central and three went to South. A Boston-born, Harvard-trained law professor, Mr. ONeil arrived at U-Va. in 1985 as the universitys first president with absolutely no ties to the South, The Washington Post reported in a profile. He had previously led the 13-university system in Wisconsin for five years and was seen at his inauguration in Charlottesville as an outsider who would help raise the national profile of the institution founded by former president Thomas Jefferson as an academical village. Waterway Dr., 3700 block, 4:12 p.m. Sept. 26. Responding to a call about a suspicious person at an elementary school, a woman was detained after she made certain statements to an officer. She then assaulted the officer and was arrested. During a search of her purse, controlled substances were found. The 30-year-old Dumfries woman was charged with four counts of assault and battery on a law enforcement officer, two counts of possession of a scheduled I or II narcotic, and possession of a scheduled IV narcotic. Hayles told the jury that Wint came to visit her home in New York on May 17, 2015, and told her that he had come into money after selling his minivan a vehicle prosecutors say he set on fire days after the killings to cover evidence and winning $2,000 in the lottery. She said the two shopped and went to restaurants. Gallery Pl., 3000 block, 8:25 a.m. Sept. 18. A woman left her 3-year-old child alone in her apartment and went to the apartment of a male acquaintance. When he refused to let her in, she kicked the door open and assaulted a female inside. Police arrested a 28-year-old Waldorf woman and charged her with first- and second-degree assault, home invasion, burglary, reckless endangerment, child neglect, and related charges. The mayor said the city will reexamine two Tulsa cemeteries and a former dump all places that state investigators and archaeologists first identified as possible mass grave sites in 1998. The city plans to use new technology to see whether there is evidence that bodies were dumped there. The mayor said they will investigate the sites to determine whether they are paupers graves or mass graves. Dont pretend you care about sexual assault, Kaine said. If you did, you wouldnt have called Dr. Ford a bunch of crap. If you did, you wouldnt have gone to Alabama to campaign for [Senate candidate] Roy Moore, and, just last month, you wouldnt have gone to Amherst County to campaign with Vance Wilkins, who had to retire as speaker in disgrace after paying hush money to settle sexual harassment claims. Kealoha is awaiting the release of a film he produced in Hollywood in July called, The Story of Everything, which is based on a show he performed live on stage. He expects it to be released and distributed at film festivals in about a year. Its like the PhD thesis that I never had to do. Ive never worked harder on anything my entire life, he said. It tells the story of how we got here. Its a creation story. It starts with the Big Bang Theory billions of years ago and works its way until now showing some critical steps that formed the basis of what is human. After noticing that someone on his Twitter feed posted that Harriss office had been broken into, he said, his gut instinct as a gun owner was that he would want to protect himself if he were in that situation. The test strips were originally designed for doctors, who used them to test the urine of patients to make sure they were taking prescription fentanyl, which is used as a pain medication, and not selling it. But as illegal fentanyl poured into North America in concentrations that varied widely from dealer to dealer, harm-reduction groups began offering them in 2016 to test for fentanyl in heroin and other drugs. Users dip the strips into a mixture of drugs and water, usually but not always before they inject. White powder found at Cruz campaign building in Houston: At least two people were taken to a hospital after a suspicious white powdery substance was found in a Houston building where Sen. Ted Cruz's electoral campaign office is located, but tests showed the substance to be nonhazardous, fire officials said Tuesday. The substance was found in the Phoenix Tower building in Houston, the city's fire department said on Twitter. Cruz (R-Tex.) is seeking reelection in November. The powder was found in a package a few floors below the campaign office, a Cruz campaign spokeswoman said. The study will evaluate existing crash data to identify trends that can be addressed by making geometric and operational changes which will reduce crashes and improve the safety of the vehicles traveling through the intersection, reads a statement from the county, adding that the study would likely take anywhere from 18 to 24 months to complete from when it began last summer. There is an old proverb that says , If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. That is the principle the United States has followed for decades and, while there are still many problems to be grappled with, it is why the world is as peaceful and prosperous as it is. Who among us would teach their children that it is OK when their friends who are sick cant see the doctor because their parents cant afford health insurance? In our 14th district, 37,000 of our friends and neighbors have needed to use the Affordable Care Act in purchasing health insurance for their families. Yet U.S. Rep. Randy Hultgren voted to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Lauren Underwood, as a registered nurse who, like many of us, has a pre-existing condition, understands the value of and will defend affordable health coverage for all. Hawaiis Opportunity Probation with Enforcement program turned this strategy on its head. Clear rules were laid down, surveillance was increased, and every single violation of terms of probation was punished. But punishment was light, often as little as a couple of nights in jail. By connecting punishment directly to crime, the justice system could be both more humane and more effective at reducing recidivism; these probationers were half as likely as traditional ones to have their probation revoked. Industry wrongly argues that federal preemption is needed to prevent a patchwork of regulation that is, a situation where states augment federal standards with their own laws. If federal standards are strong and adapt to new threats, states may see no need to pass their own laws to supplement these standards. But preserving their ability to act if this is not the case can be good for the public. Its because of a patchwork that Equifax ultimately notified all consumers of its data breach, choosing to apply certain state standards nationally. And its because of a patchwork that states have prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, despite the fact that our laws at the federal level are still lacking. But a number of the statements Trump highlighted such as the year and room location of the attack were in fact issues that Ford has been specific and consistent about. Ford has said that the incident happened in an upstairs room at a gathering of teenagers and that she is 100 percent certain it was Kavanaugh who assaulted her, although she has acknowledged that her memories of other details of the evening remain unclear. In an interview, Avenatti expressed frustration with the FBI for not agreeing to meet with Swetnick. He said that if a meeting does take place, Swetnick plans to tell the bureau the names of other people who attended parties in suburban Maryland in the early 1980s where she says she saw Kavanaugh drink excessively and fondle and grope girls. The Failing New York Times did something I have never seen done before, Trump wrote on Twitter. They used the concept of time value of money in doing a very old, boring and often told hit piece on me. Added up, this means that 97% of their stories on me are bad. Never recovered from bad election call! He also mocked Democrats as acting holier than thou and focused on several potential 2020 presidential contenders by name, including former vice president Joe Biden, Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.). At one point, he also appeared to suggest that one Senate Democrat drinks too much, offering no proof for his attacks but urging the crowd to Google the senators name. I actually felt, before last week, that we were moving toward a place of more bipartisanship and working together, getting things done, said Sen. Angus King (I-Maine), who caucuses with Democrats and applauded Wednesdays two big bipartisan votes. But I have to say what happened last week sort of strained the atmosphere, in terms of relationships. And I just hope we can get by that. The Chinese and Canadian tariffs are not the only ones worrying builders and remodelers. The administration has also imposed 25 percent tariffs on steel imported from many countries and 10 percent tariffs on aluminum. According to a study by Freedonia Group, a market research firm, these tariffs are affecting prices on most indoor and outdoor kitchen appliances to varying degrees based on how much steel or aluminum they use. They include stoves and ranges, ovens, refrigerators, freezers, gas grills, among others. Together, according to Freedonia, they have the potential to upend a product market that accounted for more than $18 billion in sales in the U.S. in 2016. Sales could slump as consumers decide a new fridge or stove isnt worth the price. The offer to close Yongbyon doesnt get at the heart of their program. But its a good first step, said Joel Wit, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center in Washington who was involved in past negotiations with the North Koreans while working at the State Department. Knowing the North Koreans, I think they have other things up their sleeve that they are willing to do. Across this region on Wednesday, sign after sign, some hung on fences and some held up by weary survivors, continue to beg for help: Were hungry, Dont forget us, We are victims too. Of those who have been officially confirmed dead, only about a third have received any kind of burial, some in mass graves high in the hills surrounding the city and a lucky few by family members who found them. Thousands more may be dead, buried in mud. The mission with our youth ensemble programming is to present works that none of the high schools where our student talents attend would likely present at their schools because of the story or the language. Even though most people think about the film versions of Carrie, this stage adaptation is much closer to the Stephen King novel and softened some compared to the movie telling. China has complained bitterly about the United States holding a knife to our neck to force trade concessions while negotiations have all but broken down, with no more talks planned in the foreseeable future. A Chinese delegation was expected in Washington last week, but the visit was canceled after Trump announced tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods, infuriating Chinese leaders. Beijing responded by announcing tariffs of 5 percent to 10 percent on an additional $60 billion worth of U.S. imports. No one wants a good deal more than me. But that has never meant getting a deal at any cost, May said. Britain isnt afraid to leave with no deal if we have to. But we need to be honest about it. Leaving without a deal introducing tariffs and costly checks at the border would be a bad outcome for the U.K. and the E.U. In a subsequent statement issued early Thursday, the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul said it was following-up on the media reports of the disappearance of Saudi citizen Jamal Khashoggi after he left the building of the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. The statement added that the consulate was carrying out follow-up procedures in coordination with the Turkish local authorities to uncover the circumstances of the disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi after departing the Consulate. The court acknowledged the idea that the government can decide that someone is a foreign agent based on secret information; on that basis obtain computers containing [t]he sum of [that] individuals private life . . . and then prosecute that individual for completely unrelated crimes discovered as a result of rummaging through that computer comes perilously close to the exact abuses against which the Fourth Amendment was designed to protect. Under that principle, the military can conduct strikes to defend foreign troops it identifies as partner forces, even when U.S. personnel are not at risk and when no engagement has been authorized by Congress. Because U.S. troops might not be involved or even present when the strikes occur, it goes beyond the right of self-defense that U.S. troops have at all times. Martin "admitted that he participated in the removal of the victim's vehicle and helping to dispose of several items that were used during the murder of Ms. Garnett including the clothes the suspect was wearing as well as the knife used to commit the crime," according to a probable cause affidavit in Lake County court records. The North has also given Pompeos new special representative for North Korea, Stephen Biegun, the cold shoulder, said U.S. officials, who also spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive talks. Last month, Pompeo publicly invited Pyongyang to meet with Biegun in Vienna at the earliest opportunity, but the request went unanswered and the North has yet to name a counterpart for Biegun, they said. The United States has blamed Iran for the launch of two missiles last week that fell near the U.S. Consulate in the Iraqi city of Basra. Last Friday, Pompeo ordered U.S. diplomats to evacuate the mission and relocate. The U.S. military is standing by ready to assist. Though U.S. military officials have said protesters in the city unhappy over shortages may have been responsible, Pompeo said Iran was behind both the Basra incident and a mortar attack near the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad in early September. We ought to have pulled out of it decades ago, Pompeo said, calling it 39 years overdue in a reference to the 1979 revolution in Iran. Today marked a useful point with the decision that was made this morning from the ICJ. This marked a useful point for us to demonstrate the absolute absurdity of the Treaty of Amity between the United States and the Islamic Republic. It would provide funds for environmental remediation, if necessary, from the underground gasoline storage tank from a former gas pump on the site but more importantly, would allow the lodge, constructed in 1898, to be deconstructed and cleaned of lead paint and other potential hazards so it can be restored for the future. Craig Kelly, a prominent Liberal Party backbencher, has told party members in Sydney they should not worry about climate change and that fossil fuels were among the reasons "we are so safe". Addressing a gathering of members last week at the Middle Harbour Yacht Club, Mr Kelly said "we've always had dangerous weather" and that "even the climate has changed in space". Craig Kelly, chair of the Coalition's backbench environment and energy, told Liberal Party members not to be concerned about climate change. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen "The reality is today, we live in a time where our generation has never ever been as safe from the climate at any time in human history," Mr Kelly told the group on Wednesday, according to a recording of his speech. "The climate was always dangerous. We didn't make it dangerous, [and] it's fossil fuels that protect us from that climate." A "sexy" handmaidens Halloween costume inspired by Margaret Atwood's dystopian novel and now TV show The Handmaids Tale could have been yours for a red hot second. The costume sold by US lingerie company Yandy was declared "offensive" by the internet. Of course. Handmaidens costumes (albeit canonical, non-sexy versions) have been donned around the world by protesters demanding greater rights for women. Credit:Heather Khalifa/The Philadelphia Inquirer Yandy duly removed the costume from sale, saying: Over the last few hours, it has become obvious that our Yandy Brave Red Maiden Costume is being seen as a symbol of womens oppression, rather than an expression of womens empowerment. In the true spirit of Halloween, removing the costume from sale was a misstep. The costume casts one of the spookiest images possible for modern women. The spectre of a handmaiden is truly haunting, more so than a ghoul or ghost or zombie. For those unfamiliar with Atwood's nightmarish world, a handmaiden is a woman who has an intact reproductive system in an era of increasing infertility. Handmaidens are forced to carry the offspring of the ruling class. They wear distinctive red dresses and white bonnets that obscure their faces. The handmaidens are women who are valued only for their reproductive function, they have no autonomy, and are essentially raped each time they are assigned to bear a child. In Atwood's dystopia, women in general arent allowed to read or write and are stuck in domestic roles. Loading As Yandy points out in their apology, handmaidens costumes (albeit canonical, non-sexy versions) have been donned around the world by protesters demanding greater rights for women. The costumes were used both in Ireland and Argentina to campaign for abortion rights, they were used in Britain to protest Donald Trumps state visit, and theyve been used around the US to protest a number of bills, such as funding cuts to reproductive health centres. The point is to draw a parallel between the way women are silenced in dystopian fiction and the way women in todays political climate feel silenced on matters relating to their own bodies. To some extent, the dystopia is here. The Yandy costume takes this iconic handmaiden image and propels it into the absurd. It shortens and tightens the figureless red robe and adds fishnet stockings and very high heels. Not only does it connote an (all too real) world where women have no say over their reproductive health, but it also brings to the fore the reality that women are overtly sexualised. Its not hard to see why so many people wrote into Yandy saying that it was offensive, but surely theres also something darkly humorous about it too. Its bizarre that somehow the world of retail is able to spin a story about rape and misogyny into an empowering garment. The original item description read: An upsetting dystopian future has emerged where women no longer have a say. However, we say be bold and speak your mind in this exclusive Brave Red Maiden costume. The irony astounds. A Pakistan national has been arrested and charged after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers allegedly found child exploitation material on his mobile phone at Perth Airport. The man was arrested and charged after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers allegedly found child exploitation material on his mobile phone. Credit:ABF ABF officers stopped the 32-year-old man for a baggage check after he arrived on a flight from Dubai on Monday. During the examination officers allegedly found sexual activity involving children and animals on his phone. The man was charged and appeared in the Perth Magistrates Court on Monday. While a unity ticket with the coalition might be off the cards WA Labor is seemingly united in their stance on WA's GST woes. On Tuesday WAtoday surveyed eight of WAs nine Labor MPs and senators on their stance on GST reform and whether they would support the coalitions plan to legislate changes. Only one MP, Member for Fremantle Josh Wilson, responded by deadline with his own opinion. Scott Morrison when he was Treasurer explaining his new GST system in July. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen Member for Perth Patrick Gorman, Member for Burt Matt Keogh and Member for Brand Madeleine King all responded with a centrally prepared response. The other senators and MPs did not not respond before deadline but WAtoday understands many of them were happy to have the response centrally provided. Senator Sue Lines was returning from overseas and was not contactable. Beijing: Prime Minister Scott Morrison says Australia will play the role of "cool heads" as tensions rise in the South China Sea between its security ally, the United States, and largest trading partner, China. His comments come in the wake of a near collision between a US and Chinese warship in the South China Sea. Defence Minister Christopher Pyne said Australia viewed "any use of intimidation or aggressive tactics as destabilising and potentially dangerous". Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Credit:AAP Mr Morrison said in a radio interview on Wednesday that Australia has "very strong relationships with both the United States and with China". But it also worked closely with defence partners in the region. "Cool heads engaging with everybody in a very calm way and ensuring that were working for the best strategic outcomes of everyone involved here, but also most importantly, the national interest of Australia," he said. Beijing: China's most famous actress, Fan Bingbing, has re-emerged into the world's spotlight after a mystery disappearance from Hollywood to confess to tax evasion. In a step typical of any People's Republic of China citizen no matter how high-profile who runs afoul of the Communist Party, Fan issued a self-criticism, albeit on social media. Fan will have to pay a 479 million Chinese yuan ($97 million) fine to tax authorities, but will avoid a criminal investigation and possible jail if she pays up. In her first social media post since disappearing, Fan wrote: "I've experienced pain and torment like I've never felt before." Southaven, Mississippi: President Donald Trump mocked two of the women who have come forward with claims that Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh engaged in sexual assault and other misconduct in the 1980s. Speaking on Tuesday night at a rally in Southaven, Mississippi, Trump attacked the credibility of Christine Blasey Ford, who last week testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee that Kavanaugh drunkenly assaulted her during a high school party more than 30 years ago. The President, who days ago said Ford's testimony was "very credible", ridiculed her memory to cheers in the audience, suggesting certain details she didn't recall were evidence that she wasn't telling the truth. Kavanaugh has denied Ford's claim. "How did you get there? I don't remember. Where was the place? I don't remember," Trump said, mocking Ford's answers during last week's hearing. She said she was unable to administer ISTEP successfully because she never received a paper and pencil assessment. They had a new program with new rules. Every time I would call the state, the people on the other end knew less than I knew. Additionally, Melissa Veile-Matusak, 44, was issued an ordinance citation for battery after refusing to stop recording the physical argument with her phone and hitting the hand of a security guard attempting to stop her, police said. Recording is not allowed in the venues skyboxes where the incident occurred, according to a police report. But the budget process is taking place while city officials also are considering a proposal that could raise some $40 million to help cover municipal expenses. Such a plan is not expected to be set until later this year, which has the mayor admitting the budget proposal being put together now may very well be amended significantly later this year. I think that they have realized, based on the success of the store located at 80/94 and Indianapolis Boulevard, that a second location will only continue to not only serve the residents of Hammond, but also be a success for their company, he said. With this new location opening, both our borders are covered. Next, well work on other locations throughout the city. BRIDGEPORT Unlike the storms that flooded the city exactly one week ago, Bridgeport was mostly spared by the powerful storms that thrashed across the region Tuesday. Sept. 25, storms tore across Bridgeport, leaving several feet of flooding in some areas, including Cartwright Street. Unlike last week, city firefighters responded to only a few calls of cars trapped in water on Tuesday. Unsurprisingly, the intersection of State Street and Iranistan Avenue saw flooding. Various trees and limbs fell, ripping down wires and leaving at its worst about 432 United Illuminating customers without power. Police and fire units also responded to a call for a large tree down in the 500 block of Gilman Street. Tuesdays storms swept across the state in full force from just over the border in Beford, N.Y., the National Weather Service said. It weakened as it came across the state, leaving the Norwalk and New Canaan areas with the most damage. About 5 p.m. Tuesday, a tornado watch was issued for Fairfield and Litchfield counties until midnight. A tornado warning was issued for Fairfield County from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday. At the height of the storms, the Bridgeport Emergency Operations Center urged residents to stay inside. (There was) torrential rainfall and frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, the EOC said. Compared with the southwestern corner of Connecticut after Tuesdays storm, Bridgeport got lucky. United Illuminating reported 1,498 customers without power in Fairfield at the height of outages. Police said there were reports of trees and wires down in several areas in town. First responders had to help at least one person get out of their car after they drove into floodwater at a railroad underpass. In Norwalk, first responders were busy with multiple weather-related calls, including a tree that came down on a car on Fox Run Road at Ponus Avenue. There were no injuries reported. West Norwalk has been hit the hardest, Norwalk Police Lt. Terry Blake said. Numerous trees and power lines are down throughout. At the height of outages, Eversource Energy reported 3,159 customers without power across the state, including 1,313 in Stamford, 644 in Norwalk and 1,207 in New Canaan. Just before 6 p.m., Route 15 north in New Canaan was temporarily shut down between Exits 37 and 38 because of a tree down across both lanes. Drivers sat in more than eight miles of delays for about an hour, affecting peak rush hour traffic flow. By 7:50 p.m., the roadway was cleared. Officers canvassed the area where the suspected human skull was located and found what appeared to be an improvised camp site with a plastic shelter, Gonzales said. Detectives found clothing underneath the plastic shelter with what appeared to be the remainder of a human skeleton, he said. I understand the desire of those in law enforcement to see a particular brand of justice when one of their own has fallen, King said, but he said there was an almost blind desire for revenge at the most convenient target to present itself, James Hill. Exile and the camps were a horrific experience and my mother never got over it. It was always a part of her. I was born later in England and then we immigrated to America. As an adult, I urged my mom to write about her experience, but she was reluctant. It wasnt until later, when I became a mother, that my own mother began to open up about her life journey. The indictment charges Shultz and Justice each with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and two counts of possession of an unregistered automatic firearm. Lillian Rose (Janysek) Bujnoch Audio Article It is with profound sadness that the family of Lillian Rose (Janysek) Bujnoch announce her passing. Lillian passed peacefully, surrounded... James John Kruse Audio Article James John Kruse of Black Hill, Texas, passed away on Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, at the age of 81. James... Margaret Vega Cresap Audio Article Margaret Vega Cresap passed away in San Antonio, Texas, on Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, at the age of 76. She... Kurt Schneider, superintendent of the North Suburban Special Education District, said the the second-year teacher at North Shore Academy was placed on administrative leave and, because the teacher is not cooperating with an internal investigation the administration will recommend his firing at the districts Oct. 10 Leadership Council meeting. In its 60th year of existence, the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre has finally broken the glass proscenium. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 3/10/2018 (1137 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. In its 60th year of existence, the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre has finally broken the glass proscenium. For the first time, Canada's oldest English-speaking regional theatre has hired a woman to take on the position of artistic director. Kelly Thornton, 53, will leave her duties at Toronto's Nightwood Theatre to come to Winnipeg to take the helm of one one of the country's most important cultural institutions starting in June 2019. Thornton will be taking the position left vacant by Steven Schipper, who announced in March he will be retiring from his post on May 31, 2019, 30 years to the day from when he was hired. Thornton, 53, has herself maintained a long career in Canadian theatre. Born in Brockville, Ont., the youngest of four children, she moved with her family to Melbourne, Australia, at the age of nine before returning to Canada six years later. Ultimately, her post-secondary education found her studying theatre at the University of Guelph. After working as an actor and dramaturg, she took the reins of the feminist theatre Nightwood in 2001. The move to the Royal MTC began in May when she was first interviewed in Toronto by the executive search company Searchlight, which led to her interview with RMTC's hiring committee. "I flew out to to Winnipeg to meet the committee in the last week of June and had a lovely meeting with them," Thornton says. "I really connected, and that's not always the case. "That hiring committee was incredibly rigorous. They had a very well thought-out process and they asked a lot of questions, and we had a really strong human connection, which I think they were looking for. It's not just, can a person program a season, but will this person fit in the community? Will this person fit into the work culture that Steven has created at RMTC?" Thornton is clearly committed to a new career in Winnipeg. She will be moving with her husband Josep Seras and her 11-year-old daughter Chloe, but also moving to the city is her first husband, actor Alex Poch-Goldin, who was seen recently on the RMTC Warehouse stage in the 2016 production My Name Is Asher Lev. Because she shares custody of Chloe with Poch-Goldin, that was potentially a problem, but it came to an amicable solution. "I have the modern family. When this idea first arose, I had to talk to Alex, and he was super-excited by it," she says. Kelly Thornton was first interviewed in Toronto by an executive search company, which led to her interview with RMTC's hiring committee in June. (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press) "So he's coming too. And my husband is originally from Spain, from the Mediterranean, just north of Barcelona and he's like: 'I love the Canadian winter!' He's also super-excited. "So we're all moving out. Josep, Chloe and I are obviously going to buy a home and I think Alex will either rent or purchase. The prices are so fantastic." Royal MTC general manager Camilla Holland (who was the company's first female GM) is an old friend of Thornton. "We came up together at the same time in Toronto theatre, so we've been colleagues for decades now, which is amazing because we're not that old," Holland says. "I've always been extraordinarily impressed with her dedication, her directing acumen, and her deep passion for telling women's stories in her time at Nightwood," says Holland, adding she was a part of the search committee but did not have a voting role. Ready, Pet, Go! Leesa Dahl looks at everything to do with our furry, fuzzy, feathered, fishy (and more!) pet friends. Arrives in your inbox each Monday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "I was thrilled when she threw her hat into this exciting ring. I knew she would be a really fantastic match for this community. She would honour Steven's successes and legacy, but look to cast her own future as well. "I think Kelly's going to embrace it and I think Winnipeg will warm to her really quickly," Holland says. "She's got a huge sense of humour and great stories to tell." For her part, Thornton is "over the moon" at the prospect of moving to Winnipeg. "Everything about this move feels absolutely right. It feels already like a home," she says. "I'm not going to miss Toronto at all. It's such a grind." randall.king@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @FreepKing Thanksgiving dinner options in Pueblo you don't have to cook You can take some of the stress out of Thanksgiving by taking advantage of some of these places to get pre-cooked or to-go Thanksgiving meals in Pueblo. Cannabis store employees in Manitoba are busy learning how to sell and how not to sell marijuana come legalization on Oct. 17. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 2/10/2018 (1138 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Cannabis store employees in Manitoba are busy learning how to sell and how not to sell marijuana come legalization on Oct. 17. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada chief executive officer Andrew Murie led part of a Tuesday training session for about 15 future Delta 9 Cannabis store workers at the companys headquarters in an east Winnipeg industrial park, teaching them how to navigate scenarios such as refusing to serve an intoxicated customer. "Just keep apologizing Im sorry. Its not personal, its the law. If you come back tomorrow Id be glad to serve you," suggested Murie, as he walked his students through a hypothetical case involving an inebriated shopper who was angry after being turned away. Asking ineligible customers to leave a cannabis store, Murie warned, "is not comfortable, youll not feel good after it, but you did the right thing." Other topics for Muries students included how to refuse service to someone without proper age identification, how to determine whether customers might be illegally buying cannabis on behalf of a minor, and how to alert police if an intoxicated customer is refused service and drives away from the store. Murie said the MADD Canada course, delivered in partnership with cannabis technology and education firm Lift & Co., is very similar to the kind of training that might be provided to liquor store employees, but with an added emphasis on legal liability, impaired driving and recognizing the signs of cannabis intoxication. JEN DOERKSEN/WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Delta 9 retail employees listen as Andrew Murie, Chief Executive Officer of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) gives an instructional lecture on how to sell marijuana products responsibly. "A piece of its based on the smart serve type of programs that are for bars and licensed establishments," said Murie, who has already delivered about 25 such training courses to employees of government-operated cannabis stores in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Eventually, he expects MADD Canadas cannabis retail training courses to be available online. "We want to make sure that we always sell the product in a socially responsible manner," said Al Roney, vice-president of retail operations with Delta 9 Cannabis. The company is currently training between 35 and 40 part- and full-time store staff in Manitoba, Roney said. Training for those workers will include a mandatory course from cannabis regulator Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba, as well as online retail training courses from the Retail Sales Academy, and violence de-escalation training provided by the Crisis & Trauma Resource Institute. "The training is going to cover anything that a typical retail environment would cover," said Roney. "Obviously, product knowledge is huge in serving customers, and in giving them good advice on products and understanding the characteristics. "Pure customer service, how to greet customers, how to explain things to them, obviously, thanking them at the end of their sale. Being aware of potential security issues, not only from a social responsibility point of view but from a potential shop theft point of view, as well." Checking and verifying customer identification at the door will also be a key concern, Roney said, so employees will be trained on how to spot fake IDs. JEN DOERKSEN/WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Andrew Murie, Chief Executive Officer of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Under the new federal Cannabis Act, selling marijuana to a person under the age of 18 will be a criminal offence. In Manitoba, new provincial laws also prohibit supplying cannabis to a person under the age of 19 or to an intoxicated person, as well as attempting to purchase cannabis or enter a cannabis store using fraudulent identification. Giving a young person identification in order to purchase cannabis or enter a cannabis store is also banned by law in Manitoba. Aside from the many legal considerations for cannabis store employees, other aspects of Delta 9s retail training focus on the ins and outs of cannabis itself. Trevor Duncan will be a manager at Delta 9s Osborne Village location at 478 River Ave. He said Lift & Co.s training materials have given him and his future staff "a lot of cannabis knowledge" about the various psychoactive chemical compounds contained in the plant, as well as "a way to speak to customers who are at all different levels of experience, and levels of knowledge as well." Want more great journalism? Get our best news and features delivered in your inbox every weekday evening. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "Discussing how to recommend products to someone who is brand new is a really important part," Duncan said. "We want to develop a personal relationship with every one of our customers, we believe thats a great way to deliver high levels of customer service. So were going to talk to you, were going to find out how youre doing, where youre at with your experience with cannabis, and ask some questions that are going to give us some information and from there we could start making recommendations on potential strains and products." Duncan, who previously worked as a Starbucks store manager, said Manitobans should "be ready to have a conversation about cannabis" when they go shopping at legal outlets starting Oct. 17. But in order to even set foot in those stores, he noted, theyll need to have valid photo ID. solomon.israel@theleafnews.com Twitter: @sol_israel In all but nine days last year, police responded to gun reports on the streets of Winnipeg calls that took them to every area of the city, from the downtown core to the North End and Tuxedo to Fort Garry. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 2/10/2018 (1138 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. In all but nine days last year, police responded to gun reports on the streets of Winnipeg calls that took them to every area of the city, from the downtown core to the North End and Tuxedo to Fort Garry. Day after day in 2017, gun reports, which are called in when a firearm is spotted and illegal activity suspected, streamed into the Winnipeg Police Service call centre, reaching a peak April 22, 2017, with 11 reports. The calls took officers to every corner of Winnipeg, suggesting few neighbourhoods are devoid of guns and immune to the crime that can accompany them. Thats the picture painted by data obtained by the Free Press through a freedom of information request, which shows guns are being seen and heard throughout the city at a pace some residents may find surprising. Number of calls when a gun was reported, 2017 There were only nine days in 2017 when police were not dispatched to a report of a gun. Data doesnt include robberies or domestic disturbances where a gun was reported. 10 0 5 Jan. Feb. March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Source: Winnipeg police call data Number of calls when a gun was reported, 2017 There were only nine days in 2017 when police were not dispatched to a report of a gun. Data doesnt include robberies or domestic disturbances where a gun is reported. 10 0 5 Jan. Feb. March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Source: Winnipeg police call data Number of calls when a gun was reported, 2017 There were only nine days in 2017 when police were not dispatched to a report of a gun. Data doesnt include robberies or domestic disturbances where a gun is reported. 10 0 5 Jan. Feb. March April June May July Sept. Aug. Oct. Dec. Nov. Source: Winnipeg police call data Source: Winnipeg police call data In total, the Free Press has analyzed a log of 275,670 police dispatches between Jan. 1, 2017 and March 31, 2018, which included details such as priority level, event type, date, time and approximate location. The data has formed the basis of a four-part series The 411 on 911 that continues later this week with a closer look at what it reveals about residential break-and-enters and mental-health calls. THE 411 ON 911 Click to Expand This is the second of a four-part series based on a Free Press data analysis of 275,670 instances in which Winnipeg Police Service officers were dispatched between Jan. 1 2017 and March 31, 2018. Part 1: Officers are dispatched an average of 600 times a day; the Free Press finds out where they're headed and why When reported shots fired are factored into the equation on top of reports of firearms seen there were only four days in 2017 when police were not dispatched to at least one gun-related call. Police say reports of gunfire often prove unfounded, as people mistake the sound of fireworks or backfiring cars for gunshots. When it comes to reports of firearms seen, however, police say the majority of calls are accurate. "Those calls are going to be people whove seen a firearm, so theres going to be some visual confirmation there," said WPS spokesman Const. Jay Murray. MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS The Winnipeg Police Service communications centre In 2017, police were dispatched to investigate 1,396 gun reports and 484 reports of gunshots. That data paints only a partial picture of such activity in the city, however, since gun reports and shots fired dont account for other offences sometimes committed with firearms, such as robberies and domestic disputes. Any call where theres reason to believe a gun could be present is stressful for police, according to Murray, who said officers often experience an adrenaline rush when responding. "You definitely go into these calls with a higher sense of awareness. They take a toll on officers, because you never truly know what youre about to go up against. These can be tough calls to take," he said. "Youre going to read that call history or listen to the 911 call. You try to make a determination. Is this going to be a small kid with a BB gun? Or does this feel like theres something more to it? Does it feel like something very bad is imminent?" University of Manitoba criminology and sociology professor Frank Cormier cautions against jumping to conclusions. "When someone is seen with a firearm, we have to figure out exactly what were talking about, he said. "Whats becoming common is for people to have things that look exactly like firearms, airsoft guns and things like that. "But, if by the time police arrive that person is gone, you may not get to the bottom of what exactly was going on there." Indeed, Murray said officers have seen increasing numbers of imitation firearms and homemade "zip guns" on the streets. In the past, police have suggested that could be attributed, in part, to an increasing number of firearms seizures, something Cormier said may be a positive sign. "A rise in zip guns could actually be a good thing. It could be that fact that were doing a better job in keeping real guns out of the hands of criminals," he said. All gun-related calls, 2017 Gun reports: These are calls by someone who has seen a gun and suspects its being used for illegal activity. Shots fired: Majority of these turn out to be unfounded. Many people mistake fireworks or backfiring vehicles for the sound of gun shots. source: Winnipeg police call data. Locations are approximate. Data does not include domestic disturbances or robberies where a gun is reported. All gun-related calls, 2017 Gun reports: These are calls by someone who has seen a gun and suspects its being used for illegal activity. Shots fired: Majority of these turn out out to be unfounded. Many people mistake fireworks or backfiring vehicles for the sound of gun shots. source: Winnipeg police call data. Locations are approximate. Data does not include domestic disturbances or robberies where a gun is reported. All gun-related calls, 2017 Gun reports: These are calls by someone who has seen a gun and suspects its being used for illegal activity. Shots fired: Majority of these turn out out to be unfounded. Many people mistake fireworks or backfiring vehicles for the sound of gun shots. source: Winnipeg police call data. Locations are approximate. Data does not include domestic disturbances or robberies where a gun is reported. Whatever the case, the data analyzed by the Free Press is too small a sample size to reveal long-term crime trends, Cormier said, even if it does provide insight into what police dealt with during that time. "Anything crime-related, the key thing we need to keep in mind is that we have to be able to collect data over at least a number of years. Thats important so we can understand if what were seeing is a trend or a blip, because if thats the case it would be unwise for us to start making policy decisions based on it," he said. According to the most recent WPS annual report, the number of firearms offences laid against adults increased six per cent in 2017 over the previous year. However, that figure still represented a 24 per cent decrease over the five-year average. A firearm offence is laid when a gun is used in a crime, pointed at someone or discharged. Meanwhile, youth firearm charges are a different story: those charges jumped from one in 2016 to 13 in 2017 a figure that marked a 55 per cent increase over the five-year average. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Murray said he suspects it will come as a surprise to some Winnipeggers reports of gun crime take officers into all corners of the city, suggesting guns are more common in suburban neighbourhoods than people realize. "Guns can be anywhere in the city. I think theres a greater concentration in areas of poverty or higher violence, but theyre certainly all over," he said. "I wouldnt go into an area (of Winnipeg) and say, There are no guns here." ryan.thorpe@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @rk_thorpe graeme.bruce@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @grjbruce The "indiscriminate terrorism" of mailing bombs to his ex-wife and local lawyers calls for a former Winnipeg auto mechanic to serve a life sentence in prison, Crown prosecutors argued Wednesday. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 3/10/2018 (1137 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The "indiscriminate terrorism" of mailing bombs to his ex-wife and local lawyers calls for a former Winnipeg auto mechanic to serve a life sentence in prison, Crown prosecutors argued Wednesday. Guido Amsel's repeated targeting of his ex-wife, Iris Amsel, means he should be sentenced to an additional 15 years on top of his life sentence, with no chance of parole for 10 years, Crown attorney Chris Vanderhooft argued. Defence lawyers are seeking a 20 to 25 year sentence, saying the Crown's request amounts to life in prison without parole eligibility for 25 years and would be "crushing" to Amsel, who continues to deny he had anything to do with the four explosions that caused chaos in and around the city. The Crown is seeking a life sentence plus an additional 15 years behind bars for Guido Amsel. (Winnipeg Police Service handout) "Postal workers had to sweep all of the mail in Winnipeg, law firms were on high alert, suspicious package calls increased to the Winnipeg Police Service, and, to put it bluntly, these bombs affected the life of an entire city," Vanderhooft said. The 52-year-old was found guilty in May of 15 criminal charges, including four counts of attempted murder for twice trying to kill his ex-wife and mailing explosives to the lawyers who represented them in a civil dispute. Amsel was convicted of causing an explosion in front of the home he and Iris once shared in the RM of St. Clements. He wasn't criminally charged in the December 2013 incident until after a series of three explosive packages were mailed in Winnipeg in July 2015. The first of the explosive packages was opened by lawyer Maria Mitousis, who received a bubble-wrapped package containing a voice recorder and a note that instructed her to "press enter" to hear information that would "help with defence." The explosion at her River Avenue law office seriously hurt Mitousis, who represented Iris Amsel in a business dispute against Amsel, and resulted in the amputation of her right hand. Lawyer Maria Mitousis at a press conference in 2015. She has returned to work full-time, has endured hours of rehabilitation and still deals with a constant throbbing pain in her residual limb, she told court Wednesday. (John Woods / The Canadian Press files) The other two explosive packages, addressed to Iris Amsel and George Orle, the senior lawyer at the firm that represented Guido in the civil dispute, were discovered and handled by police bomb squad robots. They exploded, without hurting anyone, after being shot with water cannons. "Ms. Mitousis, because she happened to stop by her office and check her mail, saved others from a similar fate," Vanderhooft said. Exactly three years and three months since the explosion, Mitousis spoke in front of a full courtroom Wednesday. She read aloud a prepared victim impact statement, saying she wants Amsel to know she never thinks about him outside of the court process, and that after this is over, he will "disappear" from her consciousness. "I've concluded that his deliberate, carefully thought-out plan to cause pain, fear and chaos are the actions of a coward. It pains me that my life has intersected with someone who, by his own selfishness, arrogance and need to exert power over others, chose violence to leave his mark," she said. Mitousis said she's returned to work full-time, has endured hours of rehabilitation and still deals with a constant "dull, throbbing" pain in her residual limb. She can still sense her lost fingers and thumb clenched into a tight fist, and she said she longs to be able to relieve the pressure by stretching out her lost hand. But she said she doesn't want to dwell in dark places. "I also believe that it would please the person who caused this harm to know the details of the pain and the damage that he's caused, and I shall not allow him the satisfaction of that," she said. Iris Amsel and Orle both decided not to submit victim impact statements to the court. Amsel's conspiracy theories factored heavily into his sentencing hearing Wednesday as Vanderhooft read excerpts from a 20-page letter Amsel wrote to the justice minister, the Independent Investigation Unit, the Criminal Defence Lawyers Association of Manitoba, RCMP professional standards "and others" after provincial court Judge Tracey Lord convicted him in May. Download Mitousis victim impact statement Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. In the letter, a copy of which was obtained by the Free Press, Amsel says all of those involved in his case -- from police to his former defence lawyers to the judge -- participated in corruption and conspired to frame him. "My belief: all of this was planned, premeditated, thought through and carried out from a large group of people right to the top, our federal (sic) judge Tracey Lord," Amsel's letter says. Defence lawyer Andrew Synyshyn acknowledged Amsel hasn't shown any remorse or apologized. He suggested the judge consider that a lack of a mitigating factor rather than an aggravating one while she considers the sentence. Lord is expected to deliver her decision Nov. 22. katie.may@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @thatkatiemay THE Manitoba government is flying in a Vancouver-based expert to review how flood-fighting equipment and security services were procured in the past, and hopes to heed his advice to develop better protocols for the future. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 2/10/2018 (1138 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. THE Manitoba government is flying in a Vancouver-based expert to review how flood-fighting equipment and security services were procured in the past, and hopes to heed his advice to develop better protocols for the future. Umendra Mital, an independent adviser and engineer, will be paid $120,000 for his year-long review of the provinces procurement system, dating to 2008. Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler said the government thought it best to bring in an outside expert to assure impartiality, though Mital also has some professional experience working in Manitoba. Schuler assured the review is not being launched with political malice, though the audit will primarily focus on actions of the former NDP government. "Theres a lot of things that we have to clean up from the previous government. In my department, what we believe is we want to get the best value for Manitobans, the best value for their dollar and protect Manitobans," the minister said, adding later: "This hasnt got ideology attached to it. "Im very much a go-forward individual. I believe that we should be looking at what were doing now and where we want to go. We do need advice in this situation and I think (Mital) would probably be better-suited to look at those documents than I would be." While in opposition, PC ministers lambasted the former NDP government for some of its procurement practices. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. In a January 2016 report, Manitobas ombudsman concluded the province contravened its own purchasing policies in 2014, when Manitoba Infrastructure & Transportation tried to buy $5-million worth of flood tubes (also known as Tiger Dams) for Interlake First Nations without seeking competitive bids. The purchase was never made, though a whistleblower lodged a complaint to the ombudsman alleging then-NDP minister Steve Ashton tried to interfere with due process. NDP MLA Andrew Swan said there doesnt seem to be any point ordering an outside review when government has all the historic records it needs to survey services. "Its strange that today after 21/2 years in government, the day before were back in session and going to be asking serious questions about health care, about education, about affordability for Manitobans the government decides that they are going to announce this review," Swan said. "The minister already has all the information he would need to decide how hes going to go forward. This is an attempt by the Pallister government to deflect from their failures as a government." jessica.botelho@freepress.mb.caTwitter: @_jessbu It won't be R2-D2, Optimus Prime, the Terminator -- or even Rosie the maid -- but Winnipeg's airport will soon be the first in North America to have a robot plowing paths for planes. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 3/10/2018 (1137 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. It won't be R2-D2, Optimus Prime, the Terminator -- or even Rosie the maid -- but Winnipeg's airport will soon be the first in North America to have a robot plowing paths for planes. The Winnipeg Airports Authority announced Wednesday it has joined forces with Manitoba companies Airport Technologies Inc. and Northstar Robotics Inc. to create the first autonomous snow-clearing machine at an airport in North America. "When you think of it, where better than Manitoba?" Barry Rempel, WAA president and chief administrative officer, joked during the announcement. "I am really thrilled about this... our mission at this airport is to lead transportation innovation and growth." The snowplow, manufactured by Portage la Prairie-based Airport Technologies -- which also built the rest of the airport's fleet of plows -- will be outfitted with technology created by Headingley-based Northstar Robotics. Rempel said the goal will be to have the system operational for testing and demonstration by spring 2019. Shawn Schaerer, president and founder of Northstar, said the technology has been used in recent years by tractors in farm fields. "We want to put Winnipeg and Manitoba on the map to fully do autonomous snow clearing at the Winnipeg airport," he said, noting the system will work by using GPS mapping connected to pre-created routes on a computer. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Brendon Smith, president of ATI, said the company is honoured to be part of the creation of a new technology on its snow-clearing machines. "We can't think of a better way to tackle the next step of our industry." Vince Dancho, WAA vice-president of operations, said no jobs will be lost with the new technology, which will first be used to clear secondary areas used for taxiing and tarmac aprons. The WAA operates, manages and maintains Richardson International Airport. "We will need people to oversee the operation and check the clearing afterwards," Dancho said. "It will allow us to clear the snow more quickly and more efficiently." The snowplow costs about $450,000 before the technology, estimated to cost between $30,000 to $40,000 is added. Rempel said up until a few days ago, officials thought the Winnipeg airport would be the first in the world to test drive a snowplow without a human operator. However, they learned a facility in Norway will be trying out a similar technology in recent days. kevin.rollason@freepress.mb.ca No matter how you look at it, a standardized cigarette pack is ugly. The colours are unappealing, the font bland and the large graphic health warnings gruesome. Thats why standardized packaging is such an effective public health policy and why tobacco companies hate it. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 3/10/2018 (1137 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion No matter how you look at it, a standardized cigarette pack is ugly. The colours are unappealing, the font bland and the large graphic health warnings gruesome. Thats why standardized packaging is such an effective public health policy and why tobacco companies hate it. The Canadian government is currently drafting regulations on standardized tobacco packaging as required by the new Tobacco and Vaping Products Act passed in May 2018. Tobacco companies are trying to weaken the regulations through lobbying and public relations campaigns. Our research finds that these efforts are based on the same arguments and selective sources of information that the industry has used in other countries that have proposed similar measures, including Australia, the U.K. and the Netherlands. We reviewed tobacco industry campaigns from around the world and found they all used the same key messages: that no evidence exists to support claims for the effectiveness of plain packaging; that such legislation contributes to a "slippery slope" of regulation that would accelerate the encroachment of the "nanny state" into citizens lives; that standardized packaging represents a threat to intellectual property rights and would increase the illicit trade in tobacco products. To support these messages, public relations documents refer exclusively to studies funded by the tobacco industry or from groups with links to the tobacco industry. Misleading messages In Canada, JTI-MacDonald, the countrys third-largest tobacco company, launched the Both Sides of the Argument campaign, which claims to presents the "facts" against standardized packaging using websites, posters, advertisements, as well as Twitter and Facebook accounts. Campaign materials argue that no credible evidence has emerged from Australia to support the effectiveness of standardized packaging, and repeat the same misleading messages used to challenge legislation in Australia and the U.K. The campaign quotes research from consulting firms paid for by tobacco companies, which do not disclose their methods for review. Knowing they have little public credibility, tobacco companies rely on "arms-length" advocacy groups to create false controversy around packaging regulations. For instance, the National Coalition Against Contraband Tobacco argues that "plain packaging has increased contraband tobacco in other countries and will likely do the same in Canada" without providing evidence of increased illicit activity elsewhere. The coalition receives funding from the tobacco industry and lists the Tobacco Manufactures Association as one of its members. The Canadian Convenience Store Association, which has also received tobacco industry funding, argues that plain packaging would hurt small business, basing its claim on "detailed studies from Australia," which were commissioned by British American Tobacco Australia and Philip Morris Australia. What is presented as concern for the unfair treatment of small, local businesses is in fact the desire of some of the largest and most profitable global corporations to protect their profits at the expense of public health. Diversionary tactics A recent poll by Global News found that 63 per cent of respondents in Canada did not think standardized packaging would reduce smoking rates. This not only suggests that tobacco industry public relations campaigns are working, theyre also muddying the debate by framing success of the policy in terms of immediate smoking reductions. This is a diversionary tactic also used in Australia, with some success, and it is now being reproduced in Canada. Proponents of standardized packaging do not claim the policy will result in immediate smoking reductions. The long-term goals are to discourage people (especially youth) from taking up smoking, to encourage smokers to quit and to avoid relapse among ex-smokers. Evidence from Australiademonstrates that standardized packaging is making progress in achieving these goals. Canadian policymakers can anticipate ongoing opposition from tobacco companies when they enact packaging legislation. Experiences from Australia and elsewhere suggest that industry campaigns do not end with implementation, but continue on after new laws are introduced in an attempt to discredit and ultimately repeal the policy. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Policy advocates must therefore remain vigilant and prepared to counter industry misinformation. Adopting standardized packaging policy is not only crucial to protect the health of Canadians, but will have international significance. In implementing the regulations, Canada stands with those countries who have introduced similar legislation (France, the U.K., Norway, New Zealand, Ireland, Hungary, Slovenia and Belgium) and acts as a model to those countries considering the policy. As this policy spreads, momentum will build, including in low- and middle-income countries that may have less established tobacco control policies in place. Through standardized packaging measures, Canada can not only secure the health of its citizens and future generations, it will reinforce its role as a global leader in tobacco control and public health. Julia Smith is a research associate at Simon Fraser University; Benjamin Hawkins is an assistant professor at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine; Jappe Eckhardt is a lecturer in politics and international relations at the University of York; and Ross MacKenzie is a lecturer in health studies at Macquarie University. This article was first published at The Conversation Canada: theconversation.com/ca. The controversial action of floor-crossing has been in the news lately, following the defection of a Liberal MP, Leona Alleslev, to join the Conservative Party of Canada (CPC) in Opposition in the House of Commons. As with past incidents of floor-crossing, commentaries were overly simplified and mainly negative. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 3/10/2018 (1137 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion The controversial action of floor-crossing has been in the news lately, following the defection of a Liberal MP, Leona Alleslev, to join the Conservative Party of Canada (CPC) in Opposition in the House of Commons. As with past incidents of floor-crossing, commentaries were overly simplified and mainly negative. There has been insufficient recognition of the complex and varied nature of the action. Is floor-crossing just politics as usual? Is it an example of unprincipled, unethical behaviour? Or is it such a serious violation of democratic principles that the action should be made illegal? The argument here is that there are varied motivations and types of floor-crossing. Different theories of representation within a parliamentary democracy lead to varied judgments about the legitimacy of particular acts of floor-crossing. In my view, floor-crossing is not frequent enough and serious enough a transgression to warrant a law regulating the action. Instead, we should take a cultural approach by promoting principled behaviour among politicians, and let the voters deal with offenders as they see fit. There is no universally accepted definition of floor-crossing. Most often the term is used to describe the action of a member of the legislature leaving the parliamentary benches of the political party under whose banner they were elected and joining the ranks of another political party, without facing the electorate. Such switches may involve a concrete issue, but usually this is not a requirement to qualify for the label of floor-crossing. The most high-profile and controversial cases involve an elected member of an opposition party accepting an inducement, such as a seat in the cabinet, in order to join the governing party. This happened back in 2005, when Belinda Stronach left the Conservatives, claiming she was uncomfortable with the partys right-wing social policy agenda. She immediately joined the caucus and the cabinet of Liberal prime minister Paul Martin, just in time to prevent defeat on a budget bill that would have brought down the minority government. Within a year, another high-profile defection occurred. On election night in 2006, David Emerson, a prominent B.C. Liberal who had just regained his seat while his party lost, declared that he would become the "worst nightmare" of CPC leader Stephen Harper and his new minority government. Within weeks, Emerson was sworn into the Harper cabinet, claiming this was the best way to defend the interests of his constituency and his province. Another version of floor-crossing could arise when a member is expelled from a party caucus and subsequently asked to join the caucus of a different party. The reasons for the expulsion would obviously affect whether such an invitation was extended. Different types of floor-crossing reflect varied motivations, such as ego and ambition, seeking to gain the "perks" of government, enabling a minority government to work, political calculation regarding re-election prospects, ideological incompatibility, policy disagreements, protection of local/regional concerns and feelings of being marginalized. In short, the decision to switch parties is personal, difficult and often involves mixed motives. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. The strong negative reactions to floor-crossing reflect different theories of democratic representation. Are floor-crossers exercising their independence as parliamentarians by following their conscience? Are they betraying the trust placed in them by voters? Are they being disloyal to the party under whose banner they ran? Depending on the situation and the perspective of the observer, floor-crossers could be seen to violate one or more of these norms. Manitoba was once the only Canadian jurisdiction that had a law regulating floor-crossing. Back in 2007, after the uproar over floor-crossings at the national level, the NDP government, with the support of the Opposition Progressive Conservatives, passed an amendment to the Legislative Assembly Act that placed restrictions on floor-crossers. That law no longer exists, because in June of this year, the Pallister government repealed it, but not before maverick Tory backbencher Steven Fletcher had challenged its constitutionality in the courts. Under the former law, an MLA who was elected with the endorsement of one party and ceased to be a member of that party was required to sit in the assembly as an Independent for the remainder of their term. In Fletchers case, he had been expelled from the Progressive Conservative caucus for his public criticism of some government policies. Fletcher argued before the court that forcing him to sit as an Independent denied him certain benefits of being a MLA and that this violated his freedom of association and expression under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Fletcher was unsuccessful in convincing the court. On June 18, a judge of the Court of Queens Bench concluded that legislatures have the right to set their own rules and the courts should not interfere. The ruling meant that a future government could restore the law. Passing laws to prohibit floor-crossing is an overreaction to the phenomenon, which has been a feature of the parliamentary tradition for centuries. Writing a law that covers all situations is impossible. Inviting the courts to trespass on the prerogatives of the legislature is misguided and costly. Changing the political culture to encourage political actors to think deeply and responsibly about the ethics of floor-crossing is the better path to follow. Paul G. Thomas is professor emeritus of political studies at the University of Manitoba and an expert adviser with evidencenetwork.ca, based at the University of Winnipeg. A tribute will be paid to the Chinese novelist Mo Yan who won Nobel Prize in Literature in 2012 by organizers of the International Book Fair of Algiers (SILA), Ministry of Culture said Tuesday in a statement. China has been chosen to be the guest of honor of the 23rd International Book Fair of Algiers to be held from Oct. 29 to Nov. 10, when novelist Mo Yan will be present with the Chinese delegation and more than 150 writers and editors. Mo Yan, the winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature 2012 for his novel entitled "Red Sorghum," will hold a conference before being honored at the official ceremony, the statement said. The event is part of an effort to "strengthen the historical China-Algerian ties" as the two nations are celebrating the 60th anniversary of the diplomatic relations. SILA 2018 will witness the participation of 970 publishers from 47 countries, including 271 Algerian publishing houses. As many as 300,000 books in different domains, including 3,000 Chinese titles in Arabic and English, will be exhibited. In 2017, SILA attracted a record high of nearly 1.7 million visitors, 200,000 more than the 2016 event. American Consumer News, LLC dba MarketBeat 2010-2021. 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"Nanjing University has sent this delegation to visit different universities and schools in Chile, in a bid to bring Chilean youth closer to Chinese culture through music," said Gu Hongjuan, the academic director of the Confucius Institute at Chile's Catholic University. The students at the school Colegio Yangtse were captivated from the start. The orchestra is famed for its use of traditional Chinese instruments such as liuqin, a four-stringed mandolin, dizi or the horizontal bamboo flute, and suona, a woodwind instrument known for its high-pitched sound. Students were especially enthralled at being able to get an up close look at the instruments and play them after the concert. In his opening speech, Xie Jin, also a member of the Confucius Institute, praised the performance as an opportunity "to overcome language and cultural barriers." Xie said events like this "serve to build bridges of mutual knowledge and friendship between two distant countries." The following companies are subsidiares of Barclays: Adler Toy Holding Sarl, Aequor Investments Limited, Alymere Investments Limited, Alynore Investments Limited Partnership, Analog Analytics, Analog Analytics Inc, Analytical Trade Holdings LLC, Analytical Trade Investments LLC, Analytical Trade UK Limited, Archstone Equity Holdings Inc, Ardencroft Investments Limited, B D & B Investments Limited, B.P.B. 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Grieg Nominees Limited, RVH Limited, RVT CLO Investments LLP, Razzoli Investments Limited, Real Estate Participation Management Limited, Real Estate Participation Services Limited, Relative Value Holdings LLC, Relative Value Investments UK Limited, Relative Value Trading Limited, Roder Investments No. 1 Limited, Roder Investments No. 2 Limited, Ruthenium Investments Limited, SPM GP Limited, Securitized Asset Backed Receivables LLC, Servicios Barclays S.A. de C.V., Societe Civile Immobiliere 31 Avenue de la Costa, Solution Personal Finance Limited, Southern Peaks Mining LP, Standard Life Aberdeen, Surety Trust Limited, Surrey Funding Corporation, Sussex Purchasing Corporation, Sutton Funding LLC, Swan Lane Investments Limited, TPLL LLC, TPProperty LLC, Tahoe Club Company LLC, Tahoe Club Employee Company, The Logic Group Enterprises Limited, The Logic Group Holdings Limited, Third Energy Holdings Limited, US Real Estate Holdings No. 2 Limited, US Real Estate Holdings No.1 Limited, US Real Estate Holdings No.3 Limited, US Secured Investments LLC, Union Center LLC, United Counties Bank, Verain Investments LLC, Walbrook Group Ltd, Wedd Jefferson (Nominees) Limited, Wessex Investments Limited, Westferry Investments Limited, Wilmington Riverfront Receivables LLC, Woolwich Homes Limited, Woolwich Plan Managers Limited, Woolwich Qualifying Employee Share, Woolwich Surveying Services Limited, Woori BC Pegasus Securitization Specialty Co. Limited, and Zeban Nominees Limited. Telecom Italia S.p.A., together with its subsidiaries, provides fixed and mobile telecommunications services in Europe, South America, and the Mediterranean Basin. The company operates through Domestic, Brazil, and Other Operations segments. It offers fixed and mobile voice and Internet, and public telephony services, as well as products managed and developed for individuals and families; and voice, data, and Internet services and products, and information and communications technology solutions for small and medium-size enterprises, small offices/home offices, the public sector, large accounts, and enterprises in the fixed and mobile telecommunications markets. The company also manages and develops a portfolio of regulated and unregulated wholesale services for fixed and mobile telecommunications operators; provision of infrastructure for housing radio transmission equipment of mobile telephone networks; and development, engineering, building, and operation of network infrastructures, information technology (IT), real estate properties, and plant engineering. In addition, it engages in customer care, operating credit support, loyalty, and retention activities; and staff functions and other support activities. Further, the company offers office products and services for IT sector. The company was founded in 1908 and is headquartered in Rome, Italy. Read More Conifex Timber Inc. primarily manufactures and sells lumber products in the United States, China, Canada, Japan, and internationally. It is involved in the timber harvesting, reforestation, and forest management activities; manufacture of finished softwood lumber from spruce, pine, and fir logs; manufacture, sale, and distribution of dimension lumber; processing logs into lumber and wood chips, as well as by-products or residues, such as trim blocks, sawdust, shavings, and barks; and providing value added lumber finishing services. The company also develops bioenergy and bio products; and operates a 36 megawatt biomass power generation plant, which produces renewable energy for commercial sale. The company was formerly known as West Fourth Capital Inc. and changed its name to Conifex Timber Inc. in June 2010. Conifex Timber Inc. was incorporated in 2007 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Read More You are here: Arts The first Chinese film week in Dubai releases scores of Chinese films for the first time in the United Arab Emirate (UAE) sheikhdom. The film week kicked off on Monday evening with a gala red carpet reception. Organizers expressed the hope that through holding of the film week, economic and cultural exchanges between the two countries will be strengthened. Chinese well-known film and television actors including Li Xiaolu, Hu Bing and Lin Yongjian appeared on the red carpet. Chinese films that will be shown during the film week include "The Heavenly Lion," "Broken Wind," "Return to 20," "Night," "Chinese Partner" and so on. Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, Chairman of the Executive Committee of "Halla China" (Arabic slang for hello), said in his speech that the film week will build a mutual cooperation for filmmakers and production companies in the UAE and China. "Halla China" is an initiative jointly launched by Dubai Meraas Group and Dubai Holding Group. The program will launch projects and activities covering trade, investment, culture, tourism and other fields, aiming to respond to the Belt and Road Initiative. Li Lingbing, China's Consul General to Dubai, said in his speech that with the support of the Consulate General and the China Film Administration, the film week will showcase Chinese films that reflect China's profound history, splendid culture and modern development. Allied Minds plc is a private equity and venture capital firm specializing in pre-seed, seed, start-up, and early stage technology investments. The firm prefers to invest across all products, services, and industries with a focus on the life science and technology sector including medical devices, diagnostics, biopharmaceuticals, big data, cyber security, communications, semiconductors, and food safety. It primarily invests in companies based in the United States, but depending on opportunities this could be expanded to a global network of partners and investments. The firm typically invests between $0.25 million and $1 million in seed investments and from $5 million to $10 million in Series A investments. The firm focuses on commercializing technologies from leading United States Universities and national labs. It seeks to take majority equity positions in its portfolio companies. The firm partners with universities to fund licensing deals and corporate spin-outs. It prefers to continue to invest alongside a syndicate for larger Series A and follow-on rounds. Allied Minds plc is based in Boston, Massachusetts with additional offices in London, United Kingdom; Los Angeles, California; Seattle, Washington; New York; New York and Washington, DC. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Bristol-Myers Squibb: 1096271 B.C. ULC, 345 Park LLC, A.G. Medical Services P.A., AHI Investment LLC, AbVitro LLC, Abraxis BioScience Australia Pty Ltd., Abraxis BioScience Inc., Abraxis BioScience International Holding Company Inc., Abraxis BioScience LLC, Abraxis BioScience Puerto Rico LLC, Acetylon Pharmaceuticals Inc., Adnexus, Adnexus a Bristol-Myers Squibb R&D Company, Allard Labs Acquisition G.P., Amira Pharmaceuticals, Amira Pharmaceuticals Inc., Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Apothecon LLC, B-MS Generx Unlimited Company, BMS Benelux Holdings B.V., BMS Bermuda Nominees L.L.C., BMS Data Acquisition Company LLC, BMS Forex Company, BMS Holdings Sarl, BMS Holdings Spain S.L., BMS International Insurance Designated Activity Company, BMS Investco SAS, BMS Korea Holdings L.L.C., BMS Latin American Nominees L.L.C., BMS Luxembourg Partners L.L.C., BMS Omega Bermuda Holdings Finance Ltd., BMS Pharmaceutical Korea Limited, BMS Pharmaceuticals Germany Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals International Holdings Netherlands B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Korea Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Mexico Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Netherlands Holdings B.V., BMS Real Estate LLC, BMS Spain Investments LLC, BMS Strategic Portfolio Investments Holdings Inc., Blisa Acquisition G.P., Bristol (Iran) S.A., Bristol Iran Private Company Limited, Bristol Laboratories Inc., Bristol Laboratories International S.A., Bristol Laboratories Medical Information Systems Inc., Bristol-Myers (Andes) L.L.C., Bristol-Myers (Private) Limited, Bristol-Myers Middle East S.A.L., Bristol-Myers Overseas Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb (China) Investment Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (China) Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (Israel) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (NZ) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Proprietary) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (Singapore) Pte. Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Taiwan) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (West Indies) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb A.E., Bristol-Myers Squibb Aktiebolag, Bristol-Myers Squibb Argentina S. R. L., Bristol-Myers Squibb Australia Pty. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Axia Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb B.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb Belgium S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Business Services Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada Co., Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada International Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Delta Company Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Denmark Filial of Bristol-Myers Squibb AB, Bristol-Myers Squibb EMEA Sarl, Bristol-Myers Squibb Egypt LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Epsilon Holdings Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Ltda., Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Portuguesa S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb GesmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb GmbH & Co. KGaA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holding Germany GmbH & Co. KG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings 2002 Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Germany Verwaltungs GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Ireland Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Pharma Ltd. Liability Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Ilaclari Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb India Pvt. Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb International Company Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb International Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb Investco L.L.C., Bristol-Myers Squibb K.K., Bristol-Myers Squibb Kft., Bristol-Myers Squibb Luxembourg International S.C.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Bristol-Myers Squibb MEA GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Manufacturing Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Marketing Services S.R.L., Bristol-Myers Squibb Middle East & Africa FZ-LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Norway Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Nutricionales de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb Peru S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma (HK) Ltd, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma (Thailand) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Holding Company LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Ventures Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Polska Sp. z o.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Products SA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Puerto Rico Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Puerto Rico/Sanofi Pharmaceutical Partnership Puerto Rico, Bristol-Myers Squibb Romania S.R.L., Bristol-Myers Squibb S.A.U., Bristol-Myers Squibb S.r.l., Bristol-Myers Squibb SA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Holding Partnership, Bristol-Myers Squibb Sarl, Bristol-Myers Squibb Service Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Services Sp. z o.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Spol. s r.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Theta Finance Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Trustees Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Verwaltungs GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb de Colombia S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb de Costa Rica Sociedad Anonima, Bristol-Myers Squibb de Guatemala S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb/Astrazeneca EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb/Pfizer EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Partnership, Bristol-Myers de Venezuela S.C.A., CHT I LLC, CHT II LLC, CHT III LLC, CHT IV LLC, CR Finance Company LLC, Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals, Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals Inc., Celem LLC, Celem Ltd., Celgene, Celgene A.B., Celgene AS, Celgene Ab (Finland), Celgene Alpine Investment Co. II LLC, Celgene Alpine Investment Co. III LLC, Celgene Alpine Investment Co. 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Ltd., Celgene Pte. Ltd., Celgene Pty Ltd, Celgene Puerto Rico Distribution LLC, Celgene Quanticel Research Inc, Celgene R&D Sarl, Celgene RIVOT LLC, Celgene RIVOT Ltd., Celgene RIVOT SRL, Celgene Receptos Limited, Celgene Receptos Sarl, Celgene Research Incubator At Summit West LLC, Celgene Research S.L.U., Celgene Research and Development Company LLC, Celgene Research and Development I ULC, Celgene Research and Development II LLC, Celgene Research and Investment Company II LLC, Celgene S. de R.L. de C.V., Celgene S.L.U., Celgene S.R.L., Celgene SAS, Celgene Sarl AU, Celgene Sdn Bhd, Celgene Services Sarl, Celgene Sociedade Unipessoal Lda, Celgene Sp. Z.o.o., Celgene Sro [Czech Republic], Celgene Summit Investment Co, Celgene Switzerland Holding Sarl, Celgene Switzerland II LLC, Celgene Switzerland Investment Sarl, Celgene Switzerland LLC, Celgene Switzerland Sarl, Celgene Tri A Holdings Ltd., Celgene Tri Sarl, Celgene UK Distribution Limited, Celgene UK Holdings Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing II Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing III Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing Limited, Celgene d.o.o., Celgene sro [Slovakia], Celmed LLC, Celmed Ltd., ConvaTec Divestiture, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals AB, Crosp Ltd., Delinia Inc., Deuteria Pharmaceuticals Inc., DuPont Pharmaceuticals, E. R. Squibb & Sons Inter-American Corporation, E. R. Squibb & Sons L.L.C., E. R. Squibb & Sons Limited, EWI Corporation, EngMab Sarl, F-star Alpha, FermaVir Pharmaceuticals L.L.C., FermaVir Research L.L.C., Flexus Biosciences, Flexus Biosciences Inc., Forbius, Galecto Biotech, GenPharm International L.L.C., Gloucester Pharmaceuticals LLC, Grove Insurance Company Ltd., Heyden Farmaceutica Portuguesa Limitada, IFM Therapeutics, Impact Biomedicines Inc., Inhibitex, Inhibitex L.L.C., Innate Tumor Immunity Inc., JuMP Holdings LLC, Juno Therapeutics GmbH, Juno Therapeutics Inc., Kosan Biosciences, Kosan Biosciences Incorporated, Linson Investments Limited, Mead Johnson (Manufacturing) Jamaica Limited, Mead Johnson Jamaica Ltd., Medarex, Morris Avenue Investment II LLC, Morris Avenue Investment LLC, MyoKardia, O.o.o. Bristol-Myers Squibb, Oy Bristol-Myers Squibb (Finland) AB, Padlock Therapeutics, Padlock Therapeutics Inc., Pharmion LLC, Princeton Pharmaceutical Products Inc., Receptos LLC, Receptos Services LLC, RedoxTherapies Inc., Route 22 Real Estate Holding Corporation, SPV A Holdings ULC, Seamair Insurance DAC, Signal Pharmaceuticals LLC, Sino-American Shanghai Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited, Societe Francaise de Complements Alimentaires(S.O.F.C.A.), Squibb Middle East S.A., Summit West Celgene LLC, Swords Laboratories, VentiRx Pharmaceuticals Inc., Westwood-Intrafin SA, Westwood-Squibb Pharmaceuticals Inc., X-Body Inc., ZymoGenetics, ZymoGenetics Inc., ZymoGenetics LLC, ZymoGenetics Paymaster LLC, iPierian, and iPierian Inc.. The following companies are subsidiares of General Dynamics: 42SIX LLC, ARMA Global Corporation, Advanced Technical Products, Aeromil (Australia) Pty Ltd, Aeromil Aircraft Engineering Pty Ltd, Aeromil Aviation Services Pty Ltd, Aeromil IT Services Pty Ltd, Aeromil Marine Pty Ltd, Aeromil Pacific Pty Ltd, American Overseas Marine Company LLC, Anteon International Corporation, Applied Physical Sciences, Applied Physical Sciences Corp., Ascend Intelligence, Australian Avionics Pty Ltd, Autonomic Resources LLC, Avion Logistics Limited, Avjet Corporation, AxleTech International, Axsys, BATH IRON WORKS CORPORATION, BP-HP Pte Limited, Bath Iron Works, Bath Iron Works Australia Corporation, Bath Iron Works Canada LLC, Bluefin Robotics Corporation, Blueprint Technologies Inc., Braintree I Maritime Corp., Braintree II Maritime Corp., Braintree III Maritime Corp., Braintree IV Maritime Corp., Braintree V Maritime Corp., Buccaneer Computer Systems & Service Inc., CSC Computer Sciences Venezuela S.A., CSRA, CSRA (Costa Rica) S.A., CSRA (Guyana) Inc., CSRA (Middle East) LLC, CSRA Argentina S.R.L., CSRA BH d.o.o., CSRA Bahamas Limited, CSRA Bahrain S.P.C., CSRA Belgium SPRL, CSRA Bolivia S.R.L., CSRA Brazil Servicos de Tecnologia Ltda., CSRA Canada Inc., CSRA Caribbean Inc., CSRA Chile SpA, CSRA Colombia SAS, CSRA Commerce 2010 LLC, CSRA Consular Services Holding Company LLC, CSRA Consular Services Inc., CSRA France SARL, CSRA Guatemala Solutions Sociedad Anonima, CSRA Honduras Sociedad Anonima, CSRA Inc., CSRA Information Systems LLC, CSRA Information Technology Spain SL, CSRA Ireland Limited, CSRA Italy S.R.L, CSRA Kosovo L.L.C., CSRA LATAM LLC, CSRA LLC, CSRA Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., CSRA Netherlands B.V., CSRA Nicaragua Sociedad Anonima, CSRA Panama Inc., CSRA Peru S.R.L., CSRA Senegal SARL, CSRA South Africa (Pty) Ltd, CSRA State and Local Solutions LLC, CSRA Systems & Solutions LLC, CSRA Trinidad & Tobago Limited, CSRA Turkey Bilisim Teknolojileri Limited Sirketi, CSRA Uruguay S.R.L, CSRA Visa Services Israel Ltd., CSRAIT - Information Services Portugal Unipessoal LDA, Centauri Solutions LLC, Command System, Computing Devices International, Concord I Maritime Corporation, Concord II Maritime Corporation, Concord III Maritime Corporation, Concord IV Maritime Corporation, Concord V Maritime Corporation, Convair Aircraft Corporation, Convair Corporation, Creative Technology, Customer Services Ecuador CSRA S.A., Devcor, Diamond Fortress Technologies, DynPort Vaccine Company LLC, EB Groton Engineering Inc., EBV Explosives Environmental, ELCS-CZ s.r.o., Eagle Enterprise Inc., Earl Industries - Ship Repair and Coatings Division, Ebv Explosives Environmental Company, Electric Boat - Australia LLC, Electric Boat - UK LLC, Electric Boat Canada LLC, Electric Boat Corporation, Electric Boat France LLC, Electrocom Inc., Engineering Technology, Expro Finance Inc., FBD Fahrzeug und Bremsendienst GmbH, FC Business Systems, Fidelis Cybersecurity, Force Protection, Force Protection Europe Limited, Force Protection Inc., ForeSight Technology Services LLC, Freeman United Coal Mining Company LLC, GD Brazil Holdings LLC, GD European Land Systems - Steyr GmbH, GD European Land Systems Holding GmbH, GDOTS Services Corporation, GM GDLS Defense Group L.L.C., GPS Source Inc., GTE Government Systems, GWA-Datatrac FAST LLC, Galaxy Aerospace Company, Gayston Corporation - Defense Operations, General Dynamics - OTS (Global) Inc., General Dynamics AIS Australia Pty Ltd, General Dynamics Canadian Finance Inc., General Dynamics Canadian Holdings Inc., General Dynamics Commercial Cyber Services LLC, General Dynamics European Finance Limited, General Dynamics European Land Systems - Austria GmbH, General Dynamics European Land Systems - Bridge Systems GmbH, General Dynamics European Land Systems - Czech s.r.o., General Dynamics European Land Systems - Denmark ApS, General Dynamics European Land Systems - Deutschland GmbH, General Dynamics European Land Systems - FWW GmbH, General Dynamics European Land Systems - Mowag GmbH, General Dynamics European Land Systems Romania S.R.L., General Dynamics European Land Systems S.L., General Dynamics Global Force LLC, General Dynamics Global Holdings Limited, General Dynamics Global Imaging Technologies Inc., General Dynamics Government Satellite Services LLC, General Dynamics Government Systems Corporation, General Dynamics Government Systems Overseas Corporation, General Dynamics Information Technology Canada Limited, General Dynamics Information Technology Inc., General Dynamics Information Technology Limited, General Dynamics Installation Services LLC, General Dynamics International Corporation, General Dynamics Itronix LLC, General Dynamics Land Systems - Australia Pty. Ltd., General Dynamics Land Systems - Canada Corporation, General Dynamics Land Systems - Canada Services Inc., General Dynamics Land Systems - Canadian Services Limited, General Dynamics Land Systems - Force Protection Inc., General Dynamics Land Systems Customer Service & Support Company, General Dynamics Land Systems Inc., General Dynamics Limited, General Dynamics Marine Systems Inc., General Dynamics Mission Systems Inc., General Dynamics Mission Systems International Limited, General Dynamics Mission Systems Overseas Company LLC, General Dynamics Motion Control LLC, General Dynamics OTS (Aerospace) Inc., General Dynamics OTS (California) Inc., General Dynamics OTS (DRI) Inc., General Dynamics OTS (Niceville) Inc., General Dynamics OTS (Pennsylvania) Inc., General Dynamics One Source LLC, General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems - Canada Inc., General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems - Canada Valleyfield Inc., General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems - Simunition Operations Inc., General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems Inc., General Dynamics Overseas Systems and Services Corporation, General Dynamics Properties Inc., General Dynamics Robotic Systems Inc., General Dynamics SATCOM Technologies Inc., General Dynamics Satcom Technologies Asia Private Limited, General Dynamics Satellite Communication Services LLC, General Dynamics Saudi Holdings S.L., General Dynamics Shared Resources LLC, General Dynamics Support Services Company, General Dynamics Swiss Financial Management Limited, General Dynamics United Kingdom Limited, General Dynamics Worldwide Holdings Inc., General Dynamics-OTS Inc., General Motors Defense, Gulfstream 100 Holdings LLC, Gulfstream Aerospace, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (CA), Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (DE), Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (GA), Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (OK), Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation of Texas, Gulfstream Aerospace Hong Kong Limited, Gulfstream Aerospace LLC, Gulfstream Aerospace LP, Gulfstream Aerospace Ltd., Gulfstream Aerospace Services Corporation, Gulfstream Aerospace Sociedad de Responssabilidad Limitada de CapitalVariable (S. de R.L. de C.V.), Gulfstream Do Brasil Servicos De Suporte E Manutencao A Aeronaves Ltda., Gulfstream International Corporation, Gulfstream Leasing LLC, Gulfstream Product Support Corporation, Gulfstream Services Corporation, Gulfstream Tennessee Corporation, Gulfstream-California Inc., Hawker Pacific (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Hawker Pacific Aircraft Management Pte Ltd, Hawker Pacific Airservices Limited, Hawker Pacific Airservices Pvt Ltd, Hawker Pacific Asia Holdings Pte Ltd, Hawker Pacific Asia Pte Ltd, Hawker Pacific Australia Pty Ltd, Hawker Pacific Aviation Services Pty Ltd, Hawker Pacific NZ Limited, Hawker Pacific Pty Ltd, IPWireless, IPWireless PTE. Limited, Information Services Consulting Limited, Interiores Aereos S.A. de C.V., International Manufacturing Technologies Inc., Itronix, Janteq Australia PTY Limited, Janteq Corp., Jet Aviation, Jet Aviation (Asia Pacific) Pte. Ltd., Jet Aviation (Bermuda) Ltd., Jet Aviation (Hong Kong) Ltd., Jet Aviation (Malaysia) SDN BHD, Jet Aviation 125 Services LLC, Jet Aviation AG, Jet Aviation Brazil Holdings Inc., Jet Aviation Business Jets (Hong Kong) Limited, Jet Aviation Business Jets AG, Jet Aviation Business Jets FZCO, Jet Aviation California LLC, Jet Aviation Dulles LLC, Jet Aviation Flight Services Inc., Jet Aviation France SAS, Jet Aviation Holding GmbH, Jet Aviation Holdings USA Inc., Jet Aviation Houston Inc., Jet Aviation International Inc., Jet Aviation Malaga SA, Jet Aviation Management AG, Jet Aviation Netherlands B.V., Jet Aviation Savannah Holding LLC, Jet Aviation Services GmbH, Jet Aviation St. Louis Inc., Jet Aviation Teterboro LP, Jet Aviation Texas Inc., Jet Aviation of America Inc., Jet Aviation/Palm Beach Inc., Jet Professionals LLC, Kylmar, Longreach Energy LLC, MAYA Viz, Maricom Systems Incorporated, Material Service Resources Company LLC, Matthews Land Company, Mediaware International, Mediaware International Pty Ltd, Metro Machine, Metro Machine co, Midwest Properties Sales LLC, NASSCO, NASSCO Holdings Incorporated, NES Associates LLC, National Steel and Shipbuilding Company, Network Connectivity Solutions Corp., Newberry Holdings LLC, OOO Jet Aviation Vnukovo, Open Kernel Labs, Page Europa Srl, Patriot I Shipping Corp., Patriot II Shipping Corp., Patriot IV Shipping Corp., Plane 79 LLC, Praxis Engineering Technologies LLC, PrimeX Technologies, Prodelin India Private Limited, Proyectos Prohumane Mexico S.A. de C.V., Quincy Maritime Corporation III, Raven Acquisitions LLC, SENTECH INC., SRA International Inc., Saco Defense, Santa Barbara Sistemas S.A., Savannah Air Center LLC, Signal Solutions LLC, Southern Illinois Recovery Inc., Spectrum Astro, St. Marks Powder Inc., Stabilo Pty Ltd, Steyr-Daimler-Puch Spezialfahrzeug AG & Co KG, Sydney Jet Charter Pty Ltd, Tadpole Computer, Tecnologias Internacionales de Manufactura S.A. de C.V., Tenacity Solutions Incorporated, The Depth of Ideas for General Trading LLC, TriPoint Global Communications, Vangent, Vangent Servicios de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Veridian, Vertex Antennentechnik GmbH, ViPS, Vulnerability Research Labs LLC, and Weco LLC. You are here: Business Taiwan's purchasing managers' index for the manufacturing sector dropped 2.1 points from August to 53.9 in September, a Taipei-based think tank has said. A PMI above 50 indicates expansion, while below reflects contraction. The expansion in September was the slowest since February 2017, according to the Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research (CIER). Despite it being the high season for orders in electronic components, the island's business outlook in manufacturing is not optimistic. The CIER index that monitors the manufacturing business outlook for the next six months dipped 6.5 points to 47.6 in September, reversing a 30-month streak of expansion. Meanwhile, economic activity in the services sector is also losing steam. The non-manufacturing index, a service sector indicator, fell 1.8 points to 50.8 in September. iShares MSCI Germany ETF's stock was trading at $23.17 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, EWG stock has increased by 47.2% and is now trading at $34.11. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. iShares MSCI Japan ETF shares reverse split before market open on Monday, November 7th 2016. The 1-4 reverse split was announced on Friday, October 14th 2016. The number of shares owned by shareholders was adjusted after the closing bell on Friday, November 4th 2016. An investor that had 100 shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF stock prior to the reverse split would have 25 shares after the split. The following companies are subsidiares of Lennar: 360 Developers LLC, Alliance Financial Services Inc., Ann Arundel Farms Ltd., Aquaterra Utilities Inc., Arbor Mill Veteran Project 2018 LLC, Asbury Woods L.L.C., Astoria Options LLC, Autumn Creek Development Ltd., Aylon LLC, Azusa Associates LLC, B2 Milpitas LLC, BB Investment Holdings LLC, BCI Properties LLC, BMR Communities LLC, BMR Construction Inc., BMTD LLC, BPH I LLC, Bainebridge 249 LLC, Bay Colony Expansion 369 Ltd., Bellagio Lennar LLC, Belle Meade LEN Holdings LLC, Belle Meade Partners LLC, Black Mountain Ranch LLC, Blue Horizons Estates LLC, Bonterra Lennar LLC, Bramalea California Inc., Bressi Gardenlane LLC, Breton Park Lennar LLC, CAP IL 1 LLC, CL Ventures LLC, CML INACTIVE LLC, CML-MO HAF LLC, CML-MO HAF PARKING LLC, CP Block 6aS LLC, CP Block 8aS LLC, CP Block 9aS LLC, CP Center Apartments LLC, CP Center Garage LLC, CP Red Oak Partners Ltd., CP Vertical Development Co. 1 LLC, CP/HPS Development Co. GP LLC, CP/HPS Development Co.-C LLC, CPFE LLC, CPHP Development LLC, CalAtlantic Financial Services Inc., CalAtlantic Group, CalAtlantic Group Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Arizona Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Georgia Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Texas Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Washington Inc., CalAtlantic Mortgage Inc., CalAtlantic National Title Solutions LLC, CalAtlantic Title Agency LLC, CalAtlantic Title Group LLC, CalAtlantic Title Inc., CalAtlantic Title LLC, CalAtlantic Title of Maryland Inc., Camarillo Village Park LLC, Cambria L.L.C., Candlestick Retail Member LLC, Cardiovascular Medical Specialists LLC, Carolina Blue LLC, Carson 175 LLC, Cary Woods LLC, Casa Marina Development LLC, Central Park West Holdings LLC, Cherrytree II LLC, Club Bonterra Lennar LLC, Coco Palm 82 LLC, Colonial Heritage LLC, Columbia National Risk Retention Group Inc., Commonwealth Incentive Fee LLC, Concord Station LLP, Coventry L.L.C., Creekside Crossing L.L.C., Crest at Fondren Investor LLC, DBJ Holdings LLC, DCA Financial LLC, DTC Holdings of Florida LLC, Darcy-Joliet L.L.C., Durrell 33 LLC, EL Ventures LLC, EV LLC, Eagle Bend Commercial LLC, Eagle Home Mortgage LLC, Estates Seven LLC, Evergreen Village LLC, F&R QVI Home Investments USA LLC, FLORDADE LLC, Faria Preserve LLC, Fidelity Guaranty and Acceptance Corp., Fidelity Land LLC, Fox-Maple Associates LLC, Friendswood Development Company LLC, GDI MANAGER LLC, Garco Investments LLC, Greystone Construction Inc., Greystone Homes of Nevada Inc., Greystone Nevada Holdings LLC, Greystone Nevada LLC, Greywall Club L.L.C., HCC Investors LLC, HPS Development Co. LP, HPS Vertical Development Co. LLC, HPS Vertical Development Co.-B LP, HPS Vertical Development Co.-D/E LLC, HPS1 Block 1 LLC, HPS1 Block 48-1A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-1B LLC, HPS1 Block 48-2A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-2B LLC, HPS1 Block 48-3A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-3B LLC, HPS1 Block 50 LLC, HPS1 Block 51 LLC, HPS1 Block 52 LLC, HPS1 Block 53 LLC, HPS1 Block 54 LLC, HPS1 Block 55 LLC, HPS1 Block 56/57 LLC, HSP Arizona Inc., HTC Golf Club LLC, Hammocks Lennar LLC, Harbor Highlands Group LLC, Harveston LLC, Haverton L.L.C., Heathcote Commons LLC, Heritage Pkwy East Holdings LLC, Heritage of Auburn Hills L.L.C., Hewitts Landing Trustee LLC, Hingham Properties LLC, Huntley Venture L.L.C., Inactive Companies LLC, Independence L.L.C., Independence Orlando LLC, Isles at Bayshore Club LLC, KMC Real Estate Investors LLC, Kendall Hammocks Commercial LLC, Kentuckiana Medical Center LLC, Kingman Lennar LLC, LB/L Duc III Antioch 330 LLC, LCD Asante LLC, LCI Downtown Doral Investor LLC, LCI North DeKalb Investor GP LLC, LCI North DeKalb Investor LP LLC, LEN - Belle Meade LLC, LEN - OBS Windemere LLC, LEN - Palm Vista LLC, LEN BPT Investor LLC, LEN Mirada Investor LLC, LEN Notarize Investor LLC, LEN OT Holdings LLC, LEN Paradise Cable LLC, LEN Paradise Operating LLC, LEN-CG South LLC, LEN-Cypress Mill LLC, LEN-Ryan 1 LLC, LEN-Touchstone LLC, LENH I LLC, LENNAR HOMES OF TENNESSEE LLC, LFS Holding Company LLC, LH Eastwind LLC, LHI Renaissance LLC, LMC 10th & Acoma Holdings LP, LMC 144th and Grant Investor LLC, LMC 2401 Blake Street Holdings LLC, LMC 2401 Blake Street Investor LLC, LMC 360 Acoma Holdings LP, LMC 410 S Wabash Holdings LLC, LMC 808 Gateway Holdings LLC, LMC 808 Gateway Investor LLC, LMC 8th Avenue Apartment Investor LLC, LMC 990 Bannock Holdings LLC, LMC Axis Westminster Holdings LLC, LMC Axis Westminster Investor LLC, LMC Berry Hill Lofts Holdings LLC, LMC Berry Hill Lofts Investor LLC, LMC Block 42 Holdings LLC, LMC Build to Core III Investor LLC, LMC Build to Core III LLC, LMC Burnside Holdings LLC, LMC Burnside Investor LLC, LMC Chandler and McClintock Holdings LLC, LMC Charlestowne Holdings LLC, LMC Charlotte Ballpark Developer LLC, LMC Cityville Oak Park Holdings LLC, LMC Cityville Oak Park Investor LLC, LMC Cobalt Holdings LLC, LMC Costa Mesa Holdings LP, LMC Crest at Park West Holdings LP, LMC Denver Gateway I Investor LLC, LMC Denver Gateway II Holdings LLC, LMC Development LLC, LMC Downtown Doral South Holdings LLC, LMC Durham Gateway Holdings LP, LMC Evans School Holdings LLC, LMC Gateway Investor LLC, LMC Gateway Venture LLC, LMC Gilman Square Investor LLC, LMC Horton Street Holdings LLC, LMC Huntington Crossing Holdings LLC, LMC Inactive Companies LLC, LMC Lakeside Holdings LP, LMC Leya Holdings LLC, LMC Living Illinois LLC, LMC Living Inc., LMC Living LLC, LMC Living TRS LP, LMC Millenia Investor II LLC, LMC NE Minneapolis Lot 2 Holdings LLC, LMC New Bern Investor LLC, LMC North Park Holdings LP, LMC Parkfield Holdings LLC, LMC Parkfield Investor LLC, LMC Righters Ferry Holdings LLC, LMC River North Holdings LLC, LMC Spring Street Investor LLC, LMC Stonewall Station Investor LLC, LMC Triangle Square Investor LLC, LMC Venture Developer LLC, LMC Verbena Holdings LLC, LMC West Loop Investor LLC, LMCFX Investor LLC, LMCPNW Marymoor Holdings LLC, LMI - Jacksonville Investor LLC, LMI - South Kings Development Investor LLC, LMI - West Seattle Holdings LLC, LMI - West Seattle Investor LLC, LMI - West Seattle LLC, LMI Cell Tower Investors LLC, LMI City Walk Investor LLC, LMI Collegedale Investor LLC, LMI Collegedale LLC, LMI Contractors LLC, LMI Glencoe Dallas Investor LLC, LMI Lakes West Covina Investor LLC, LMI Largo Park Investor LLC, LMI Las Colinas Station LLC, LMI Naperville Investor LLC, LMI Pacific Tower LLC, LMI Park Central Two LLC, LMI Peachtree Corners Investor LLC, LMI Peachtree Corners LLC, LMI-JC Developer LLC, LMI-JC LLC, LMV 1640 Broadway REIT-DC LP, LMV 1701 Ballard REIT-DC LP, LMV 19H REIT-DC LP, LMV 2026 Madison REIT-DC LP, LMV 85 South Union REIT-DC LP, LMV ATown REIT-DC LP, LMV Annapolis REIT-DC LP, LMV Apache Terrace REIT-DC LP, LMV Block 42 REIT-DC LP, LMV Bloomington REIT-DC LP, LMV Bolingbrook REIT-DC LP (DE), LMV Central at McDowell REIT-DC LP, LMV East Village I REIT-DC LP, LMV Edina REIT-DC LP, LMV Fremont WS I REIT-DC LP, LMV Glisan REIT-DC LP, LMV Grand Bay REIT-DC LP, LMV II Grand Bay Pod V Holdings LP, LMV II Kierland Holdings LP, LMV II NoMo Holdings LP, LMV II Venture Developer LLC, LMV II Wynwood Holdings LP, LMV Kirkland REIT-DC LP, LMV Little Italy REIT-DC LP, LMV M Tower REIT-DC LP, LMV Millenia II REIT-DC LP, LMV Milpitas REIT-DC LP, LMV NE Minneapolis REIT-DC LP, LMV Oak Park REIT-DC LP, LMV One20Fourth REIT-DC LP, LMV QR Build to Core Manager LLC, LMV Rio Bravo REIT-DC LP, LMV Scottsdale Quarter REIT-DC LP, LMV Tysons REIT-DC LP, LMV Vallagio III REIT-DC LP, LMV Victory Block G REIT-DC LP, LMV Warren Street REIT-DC LP, LNC Communities II LLC, LNC Communities IV LLC, LNC Communities V LLC, LNC Communities VI LLC, LNC Communities VII LLC, LNC Communities VIII LLC, LNC Pennsylvania Realty Inc., LNC at Meadowbrook LLC, LNC at Ravenna LLC, LS College Park LLC, LS Terracina LLC, LV Opendoor Investor LLC, LV Opendoor JV LLC, LW D'Andrea LLC, Lagoon Valley Residential LLC, Lakelands at Easton L.L.C., Legends Club LLC, Legends Golf Club LLC, Len - Little Harbor LLC, Len FW Investor LLC, Len Paradise LLC, Len-Angeline LLC, Len-Hawks Point LLC, Len-Land LLC, Len-Land West LLC, Len-MN LLC, Len-Verandahs LLP, LenCom LLC, LenFive LLC, LenFive Opco GP LLC, LenFive Sub III LLC, LenFive Sub LLC, LenFive Sub Opco GP LLC, Lenalto CMBS LLC, Lencraft LLC, Lennar Aircraft I LLC, Lennar Arizona Construction Inc., Lennar Arizona Inc., Lennar Associates Management Holding Company, Lennar Associates Management LLC, Lennar Avenue One LLC, Lennar Berkeley LLC, Lennar Bevard LLC, Lennar Bridges LLC, Lennar Buffington Colorado Crossing L.P., Lennar Buffington Zachary Scott L.P., Lennar Carolinas LLC, Lennar Central Park LLC, Lennar Central Region Sweep Inc., Lennar Chicago Inc., Lennar Cobra LLC, Lennar Colgate Urban Renewal Development LLC, Lennar Colorado LLC, Lennar Colorado Minerals LLC, Lennar Commercial LLC, Lennar Communities Development Inc., Lennar Communities Inc., Lennar Communities Nevada LLC, Lennar Communities of Chicago L.L.C., Lennar Concord LLC, Lennar Construction Inc., Lennar Cory Road LLC, Lennar Courts LLC, Lennar Developers Inc., Lennar Ewing LLC, Lennar Financial Services LLC, Lennar Flamingo LLC, Lennar Fresno Inc., Lennar Gardens LLC, Lennar Georgia Inc., Lennar Greer Ranch Venture LLC, Lennar Heritage Fields LLC, Lennar Hingham Holdings LLC, Lennar Hingham JV LLC, Lennar Homes Holding LLC, Lennar Homes LLC, Lennar Homes NJ LLC, Lennar Homes of Arizona Inc., Lennar Homes of California Inc., Lennar Homes of Indiana Inc., Lennar Homes of Texas Land and Construction Ltd., Lennar Homes of Texas Sales and Marketing Ltd., Lennar Homes of Utah Inc., Lennar International Holding LLC, Lennar International LLC, Lennar Lakeside Investor LLC, Lennar Layton LLC, Lennar Living LLC, Lennar Lytle LLC, Lennar MF Holdings LLC, Lennar MPA LLC, Lennar MPA WIP LLC, Lennar Mare Island LLC, Lennar Marina A Funding LLC, Lennar Massachusetts Properties Inc., Lennar Middletown LLC, Lennar Monmouth Redevelopers LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP Subsidiary LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP Victory Block G Mezz LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II GP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II GP Subsidiary LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II LP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II Manager LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture LP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture Manager LLC, Lennar Multifamily Builders LLC, Lennar Multifamily Communities LLC, Lennar Multifamily Venture DC LP, Lennar New Jersey Holdings LLC, Lennar New Jersey Properties Inc., Lennar New York LLC, Lennar Northeast Properties LLC, Lennar Northwest Inc., Lennar OHB LLC, Lennar PI Acquisition LLC, Lennar PI Property Acquisition LLC, Lennar PIS Management Company LLC, Lennar Pacific Inc., Lennar Pacific Properties Inc., Lennar Pacific Properties Management Inc., Lennar Plumsted Urban Renewal LLC, Lennar Point LLC, Lennar QR Build to Core GP LLC, Lennar QR Build to Core LP LLC, Lennar Realty Inc., Lennar Reno LLC, Lennar Riverwalk LLC, Lennar Sacramento Inc., Lennar Sales Corp., Lennar Sierra Sunrise LLC, Lennar Spencer's Crossing LLC, Lennar Sun Ridge LLC, Lennar Texas Holding LLC, Lennar Ventures LLC, Lennar West Valley LLC, Lennar Winncrest LLC, Lennar at Franklin LLC, Lennar at Jackson LLC, Lennar at Marlboro 79 LLC, Lennar at Monroe LLC, Lennar.com Inc., Longleaf Acquisition LLC, Lori Gardens Associates II LLC, Lori Gardens Associates III LLC, Lori Gardens Associates L.L.C., Lorton Station LLC, Lyons Lennar Farms LLC, Madrona Ridge L.L.C., Madrona Village L.L.C., Madrona Village Mews L.L.C., Majestic Woods LLC, Maple and Broadway Holdings LLC, Menifee Development LLC, Mid-County Utilities Inc., Miralago West Lennar LLC, Mission Viejo 12S Venture LP, Mission Viejo Holdings Inc., Motomic Diagnostics LLC, Multibank 2009-1 CML-ADC Venture LLC, Multibank 2009-1 RES-ADC Venture LLC, NC Properties I LLC, NC Properties II LLC, North American Asset Development LLC, Northbridge L.L.C., OHC/Ascot Belle Meade LLC, One SR L.P., PD-Len Boca Raton LLC, PG Properties Holding LLC, POMAC LLC, PT Metro LLC, Pace Drive Holdings LLC, Palm Gardens At Doral Clubhouse LLC, Palm Gardens at Doral LLC, Palm Springs Classic LLC, Palm Vista Preserve LLC, Patuxent Infrastructure Inc., Pioneer Meadows Development LLC, Pioneer Meadows Investments LLC, Plaza Condominium Ventures LLC, Portside Marina Developers L.L.C., Portside SM Associates L.L.C., Portside SM Holdings L.L.C., Portside Shipyard Developers L.L.C., Prestonfield L.L.C., Quail Roost Lennar LLC, RCCF GP II LLC, RCCF GP III LLC, RCCF GP IV LLC, RCCF GP LLC, RES-FL EIGHT LLC, RES-FL SEVEN LLC, RES-FL VISION ONE LLC, RES-FL VISION TWO LLC, RES-GA CASCADE LLC, RES-GA DIAMOND MEADOWS LLC, RES-GA KAP LLC, RES-GA SOUTHERN PLANTATION LLC, RES-GA THIRTEEN LLC, RES-GA TWELVE LLC, RES-GA WEST LLC, RES-IL ONE LLC, RES-NC ONE LLC, RES-PA LSJ LLC, RES-PA POM LLC, RES-TX BOULEVARD LLC, RH Insurance Company Inc., RH MOA BBCMS 2017-C1 LLC, RH MOA CF 2017-C8 LLC, RH MOA LLC, RH MOA U 2017-C4 LLC, RH MOA U 2017-C6 LLC, RIAL 2014-LT5 CLASS B LLC, RIAL 2014-LT5 LLC, RL BB FINANCIAL LLC, RL BB INACTIVE LLC, RL BB-AL LLC, RL BB-FL ALHI LLC, RL BB-GA LLC, RL BB-GA RMH LLC, RL BB-IL LLC, RL BB-IN AA LLC, RL BB-IN KRE LLC, RL BB-IN KRE OP LLC, RL BB-IN KRE RE LLC, RL BB-MS LLC, RL BB-NC LLC, RL BB-OH LLC, RL BB-SC BROOKSA LLC, RL BB-SC CLR II LLC, RL BB-SC CLR III LLC, RL BB-SC CLR IV LLC, RL BB-SC CLR LLC, RL BB-SC CRRC LLC, RL BB-SC RACEDAY LLC, RL BB-TN BRISTOL LLC, RL BB-TN LLC, RL BB-TN RACEDAY TOWER LLC, RL BB-TX LLC, RL BB-WV LLC, RL CMBS Holdings LLC, RL CML 2009-1 Investments LLC, RL REGI ARKANSAS LLC, RL REGI Alabama LLC, RL REGI FINANCIAL LLC, RL REGI Florida LLC, RL REGI GEORGIA LLC, RL REGI INACTIVE LLC, RL REGI KANSAS LLC, RL REGI MISSISSIPPI LLC, RL REGI MISSOURI LLC, RL REGI NORTH CAROLINA LLC, RL REGI SOUTH CAROLINA LLC, RL REGI TENNESSEE LLC, RL REGI VIRGINIA LLC, RL REGI-AL HP LLC, RL REGI-AL VRC LLC, RL REGI-FL CRC LLC, RL REGI-FL ESH LLC, RL REGI-FL FT. PIERCE LLC, RL REGI-FL GDL LLC, RL REGI-FL ITALIA LLC, RL REGI-FL MRED LLC, RL REGI-FL RDI LLC, RL REGI-FL SARASOTA LLC, RL REGI-FL TPL LLC, RL REGI-FL VARC LLC, RL REGI-GA DRAD LLC, RL REGI-GA HAY DB LLC, RL REGI-GA MHU LLC, RL REGI-GA MPD LLC, RL REGI-GA RLR LLC, RL REGI-MO GMB LLC, RL REGI-MO MOSCOW MILLS LLC, RL REGI-MS Double H LLC, RL REGI-MS OCEAN SPRINGS LLC, RL REGI-NC CIL LLC, RL REGI-NC LITTLE WING LLC, RL REGI-NC MLD LLC, RL REGI-NC Mland LLC, RL REGI-NC RALEIGH LLC, RL REGI-NC SUGARM LLC, RL REGI-NM LLC, RL REGI-SC CTL LLC, RL REGI-SC LAKE E LLC, RL REGI-SC TDG LLC, RL REGI-SC TIG LLC, RL REGI-TN OAK LLC, RL REGI-TN SEVIERVILLE LLC, RL RES 2009-1 Investments LLC, RMF Alliance LLC, RMF Commercial LLC, RMF PR New York LLC, RMF Partner LLC, RMF SUB 1 LLC, RMF SUB 2 LLC, RMF SUB 3 LLC, RMF SUB 4 LLC, RMF SUB 5 LLC, RMV LLC, Raintree Village II L.L.C., Raintree Village L.L.C., Ral-Len BM LLC, Ral-Len LLC, Rannel Capital WeWork Series D LLC, Rannel Holdings LLC, Rannel Interests LLC, Rannel Investments LLC, Rannel Mortgage Investments LLC, Rannel Proprietary Investments LLC, Renaissance Joint Venture, Reserve @ Pleasant Grove II LLC, Reserve @ Pleasant Grove LLC, Reserve at River Park LLC, Reserve at South Harrison LLC, Rialto Commercial Mortgage Securities LLC, Rialto Credit Partnership GP LLC, Rialto Mezz Partners GP LLC, Rialto Mortgage Finance LLC, Rialto Partners GP II LLC, Rialto Partners GP III - Debt LLC, Rialto Partners GP III - Property LLC, Rialto Partners GP LLC, Rialto RSSF GP LLC, Riverwalk at Lago Mar LLC, Rocking Horse Minerals LLC, Rutenberg Homes Inc. (Florida), Rutenberg Homes of Texas Inc., Rye Hill Company LLC, Ryland Homes Nevada Holdings LLC, Ryland Homes Nevada LLC, Ryland Homes of California Inc., S. Florida Construction II LLC, S. Florida Construction III LLC, S. Florida Construction LLC, SC 521 Indian Land Reserve LLC, SC 521 Indian Land Reserve South LLC, SPIC CPCO Inc., SPIC CPDB Inc., SPIC CPRB Inc., SPIC Del Sur LLC, SPIC Dublin LLC, SPIC Mesa LLC, SPIC NC Fremont LLC, SPIC Otay LLC, SPIC Springs LLC, San Felipe Indemnity Co. Ltd., San Lucia LLC, San Simeon Lennar LLC, Schulz Ranch Developers LLC, Seminole/70th LLC, Siena at Old Orchard L.L.C., Sierra Vista Communities LLC, Silver Springs Lennar LLC, South Development LLC, Southbank Holding LLC, Spanish Springs Development LLC, St. Charles Active Adult Community LLC, St. Charles Community LLC, Standard Pacific 1 Inc., Standard Pacific Investment Corp., Standard Pacific of Colorado Inc., Standard Pacific of Florida, Standard Pacific of Florida GP Inc., Standard Pacific of Las Vegas Inc., Standard Pacific of Orange County Inc., Standard Pacific of Tampa GP, Standard Pacific of Tampa GP Inc., Standard Pacific of Tonner Hills LLC, Standard Pacific of Walnut Hills Inc., Standard Pacific of the Carolinas LLC, Stoney Holdings LLC, Storey Lake Club LLC, Storey Park Club LLC, Strategic Holdings Inc., Strategic Technologies LLC, Summerfield Venture L.L.C., SunStreet Energy Group LLC, SunStreet Manager LLC, TCO QVI LLC, TICD Hold Co. LLC, TIH Hold Co. LLC, Talega Associates LLC, Temecula Valley LLC, Terra Division LLC, Terra/Winding Creek LLC, The Baywinds Land Trust, The Bridges Club at Rancho Santa Fe Inc., The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe Sales Company Inc., The LNC Northeast Group Inc., The Oasis Club at LEN-CG South LLC, The Preserve at Coconut Creek LLC, The Vistas Club at LEN-CG South LLC, Titlezoom Company, Treasure Island Holdings LLC, Treasure Island Member LLC, Treviso Holding LLC, Two Lakes Lennar LLC, U.S. Home Corporation, U.S. Home Realty Inc., U.S. Home of Arizona Construction Co., U.S. Insurors Inc., U.S.H. Realty Inc., UAMC Holding Company LLC, UB 2018C14 MOA LLC, USH - Flag LLC, USH Equity Corporation, USH LEE LLC, USH Leasing II LLC, USH Leasing LLC, UST Lennar HW Scala SF Joint Venture, VII Crown Farm Investor LLC, Venetian Lennar LLC, Vineyard Land LLC, Vineyard Point 2009 LLC, Vista Palms Clubhouse LLC, WCI Communities, WCI Communities Inc., WCI Communities LLC, WCI Towers Northeast USA Inc., WCI Westshore LLC, WCP LLC, WIP Lennar OHB LLC, Waterview at Hanover LLC, West Lake Village LLC, West Seattle Project X LLC, West Van Buren L.L.C., Westchase Inc., Westchase Ltd., Westfield Homes USA Inc., White Course Lennar LLC, Wild Plum JV LLC, Willowbrook Investors LLC, Winncrest Natomas LLC, Woodbridge Multifamily Developer I LLC, Wright Farm L.L.C., and YLRichards4Acres 2015 LLC. Everest Re Group Ltd. is a holding company, which engages in the provision of reinsurance and insurance services. It operates through the following segments: U.S. Reinsurance, International, Bermuda, and Insurance. The U.S. Reinsurance segment writes property and casualty reinsurance and specialty lines of business, including marine, aviation, surety, and accident and health business, on both a treaty and facultative basis, through reinsurance brokers, as well as directly with ceding companies primarily within the U.S. The International segment offers foreign property and casualty reinsurance through Everest Re's branches in Canada and Singapore and through offices in Brazil, Miami, and New Jersey. The Bermuda segment comprises reinsurance and insurance to worldwide property and casualty markets through brokers and directly with ceding companies from its Bermuda office and reinsurance to the United Kingdom and European markets through its UK branch and Ireland Re. The Insurance segment writes property and casualty insurance directly and through brokers, surplus lines brokers, and general agents within the U.S., Canada, and Europe. The company was founded in 1999 and is headquartere Read More Similar to shared bicycles, shared wheelchairs have made their way into hospitals in east China's Shandong province, bringing convenience to patients in need of receiving transfusion or walking assistance. Forty shared wheelchairs have been in service in Qilu Hospital affiliated to Shandong University. Chen Yuguo, deputy director of the hospital, said customers can scan QR codes to download the app to their cell phones, and pay a deposit of 299 yuan (US$43.5) to start using the shared wheelchairs. He said the wheelchairs can be used for free for the first two hours. Users need to pay 1 yuan for every 10 minutes of extra time after the first two hours. Chen said the shared wheelchairs must be returned to designated parking areas in the hospital, where radio transmitters can recognize they have been returned and stop charging fees. The Shandong No. 3 Provincial Hospital has introduced 30 shared wheelchairs. Han Ye, deputy director of the hospital, said they found 20-30 percent of patients in the hospital were in need of wheelchair assistance. Shandong has over 20 million people aged over 60, accounting for 20.68 percent of its total population. The aging rate is the highest among the provincial-level regions in China. A large number of the elderly already require walking assistance. Health experts suggested that shared wheelchairs should also be provided in scenic spots, bus terminals and airports to facilitate travel. The wheelchair sharing is a pilot program jointly launched by the two hospitals and the Health China Promotion Work Committee, a government-sponsored initiative to promote health facilities and provide policy consultations. Nuveen Arizona Quality Municipal Income Fund is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Nuveen Investments, Inc. The fund is managed by Nuveen Asset Management, LLC. It invests in the fixed income markets of Arizona. The fund invests in municipal securities and other related investments the income, exempt from regular federal and Arizona income taxes that are rated Baa or BBB or better and having an average maturity of 18.66 years. It employs fundamental analysis with bottom-up stock picking approach to create its portfolio. The fund benchmarks the performance of its portfolio against the Standard & Poor's (S&P) Arizona Municipal Bond Index and Standard & Poor's (S&P) National Municipal Bond Index. The fund was formerly known as Nuveen Arizona Premium Income Municipal Fund. Nuveen Arizona Quality Municipal Income Fund was formed on November 19, 1992 and is domiciled in the United States. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Pearson: AEL (S) PTE Limited, ATI Professional Development LLC, Addison Wesley Longman Inc., Addison-Wesley Educational Publishers Inc., Aldwych Finance Limited, Americas Choice Inc., Atkey Finance Limited, Author Solutions, Axis Finance Inc., CAMSAWUSA Inc., CTI Education Group (Pty) Limited, Camsaw Inc., Casapsi Livraria e Editora Ltda, Centro Cultural Americano Franquias e Comercio Ltda., Century Consultants Ltd., Certiport, Certiport China Co Ltd, Certiport China Holding LLC, Certiport Inc., Cogmed Systems AB, Connections Academy of Arkansas LLC, Connections Academy of Florida LLC, Connections Academy of Iowa LLC, Connections Academy of Maine LLC, Connections Academy of Maryland LLC, Connections Academy of Minnesota LLC, Connections Academy of Missouri LLC, Connections Academy of Nevada LLC, Connections Academy of New Jersey LLC, Connections Academy of New Mexico LLC, Connections Academy of New York LLC, Connections Academy of Oregon LLC, Connections Academy of Pennsylvania LLC, Connections Academy of Tennessee LLC, Connections Academy of Texas LLC, Connections Education Inc., Connections Education LLC, Connections Education of Florida LLC, Dominie Press Inc., Dorian Finance Limited, Dorling Kindersley Australasia Pty Limited, EBNT Canada Holdings ULC, EBNT Holdings Limited, EBNT USA Holdings Inc., Edexcel Limited, Edexcel South Africa Pty Ltd, Education Development International plc, Education Resources (Cyprus) Limited, Educational Management Group Inc., Educational Publishers LLP, Embanet ULC, Embanet-Compass Knowledge Group Inc., EmbanetCompass, Embankment Finance Limited, English Language Learning and Instruction System Inc., Escape Studios Limited, FBH Inc., Falstaff Holdco Inc., Falstaff Inc., GED Domains LLC, GED Testing Service LLC, George (Shanghai) Commercial Information Consulting Co. Ltd, Global Education, Global George I Limited, Global George II Limited, GlobalEnglish, Globe Fearon Inc., Guangzhou Crescent Software Co. Ltd, Heinemann Education Botswana (Publishers) (Proprietary) Limited, Heinemann Publishers (Pty) Ltd, INTELLIPRO INC., Icodeon Limited, IndiaCan Education Private Limited, Integral 7 Inc., Integrated Analytics LLC, J M Solucoes Exportacao e Importacao Ltda, K12 Learning Services LLC, Kagiso Education Pty Ltd, Knowledge Analysis Technologies LLC, LCCI International Qualifications (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., LCCIEB Training Consultancy. Ltd, Learning Catalytics, LessonLab Inc., Lignum Oil Company, Linx Brasil Distribuidora Ltda., Longman (Malawi) Limited, Longman Australasia Pty Ltd, Longman Group(Overseas Holdings)Limited, Longman Indochina Acquisition L.L.C., Longman Kenya Limited, Longman Mocambique Ltda, Longman Romania S.R.L., Longman Swaziland (Pty) Limited, Longman Tanzania Limited, Longman Zambia Educational Publishers Pty Ltd, Longman Zambia Limited, Longman Zimbabwe (Private) Ltd, Longmaned Ecuador S.A., Major123 Limited, Maskew Miller Longman (Pty) Limited, MeasureUp LLC, Modern Curriculum Inc., Multi Holding, Multi Treinamento e Editora Ltda, NCS Information Technology Services (Beijing) Co Ltd, NCS Pearson Inc., NCS Pearson Pty Ltd, NCS Pearson Puerto Rico Inc., National Computer Systems Japan Co. Ltd, Ordinate Corporation, PN Holdings Inc., PT Efficient English Services, Pearson (Beijing) Management Consulting Co. Ltd., Pearson (Guizhou) Education Technology Co. Ltd., Pearson Affordable Learning Fund Limited, Pearson America LLC, Pearson Amsterdam B.V., Pearson Australia Finance Unlimited, Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd, Pearson Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, Pearson Australia Pty Ltd, Pearson Benelux B.V., Pearson Books Limited, Pearson Brazil Finance Limited, Pearson Business Services Inc., Pearson Canada Assessment Inc., Pearson Canada Finance Unlimited, Pearson Canada Holdings Inc, Pearson Canada Inc., Pearson Central Europe Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Pearson College Limited, Pearson DBC Holdings Inc., Pearson Desarrollo y Capacitacion Profesional Chile Limitada, Pearson Deutschland GmbH, Pearson Digital Learning Puerto Rico Inc., Pearson Dollar Finance Two Limited, Pearson Dollar Finance plc, Pearson Educacion SA, Pearson Educacion de Chile Limitada, Pearson Educacion de Colombia S A S, Pearson Educacion de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Pearson Educacion de Panama SA, Pearson Educacion de Peru S.A., Pearson Education (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Pearson Education Achievement Solutions (RF) (Pty) Limited, Pearson Education Africa (Pty) Ltd, Pearson Education Asia Limited, Pearson Education Botswana (Proprietary) Limited, Pearson Education Hellas SA, Pearson Education Holdings Limited, Pearson Education Inc., Pearson Education Indochina Limited, Pearson Education Investments Limited, Pearson Education Korea Limited, Pearson Education Limited, Pearson Education Namibia (Pty) Limited, Pearson Education Publishing Limited, Pearson Education S.A., Pearson Education SA, Pearson Education South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Pearson Education South Asia Pte. Ltd., Pearson Education Taiwan Ltd, Pearson Education do Brasil S.A, Pearson Educational Measurement Canada Inc., Pearson Educational Publishers LLC, Pearson Egitim Cozumleri Tikaret Limited Sirketi, Pearson Falstaff (Holdings) Inc., Pearson Falstaff Holdco LLC, Pearson France, Pearson Funding Five plc, Pearson Funding Four plc, Pearson Funding Two Limited, Pearson Holdings Inc., Pearson Holdings Southern Africa (Pty) Limited, Pearson IOKI Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Pearson India Education Services Private Limited, Pearson India Support Services Private Limited, Pearson Institute of Higher Education, Pearson International Finance Limited, Pearson Investment Holdings Inc., Pearson Italia S.p.A, Pearson Japan KK, Pearson Lanka (Private) Limited, Pearson Learning China (HK) Limited, Pearson Lesotho (Pty) Ltd, Pearson Loan Finance No. 3 Limited, Pearson Loan Finance No. 4 Limited, Pearson Loan Finance No.2 Unlimited, Pearson Loan Finance Unlimited, Pearson Longman Uganda Limited, Pearson Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Pearson Management Services Limited, Pearson Management Services Philippines Inc., Pearson Maryland Inc., Pearson Netherlands B.V., Pearson Netherlands Holdings B.V., Pearson Nominees Limited, Pearson Online Tutoring LLC, Pearson Overseas Holdings Limited, Pearson PEM P.R. Inc., Pearson PRH Holdings Limited, Pearson Pension Nominees Limited, Pearson Pension Property Fund Limited, Pearson Pension Trustee Limited, Pearson Pension Trustee Services Limited, Pearson Professional Assessments Limited, Pearson Real Estate Holdings Inc., Pearson Real Estate Holdings Limited, Pearson Schweiz AG, Pearson Services Limited, Pearson Shared Services Limited, Pearson South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Pearson Strand Finance Limited, Pearson Sweden AB, Pearson VUE Philippines Inc., Pearson in Practice Holdings Limited, Pearson in Practice Skills Based Learning Limited, Pearson in Practice Technology Limited, Penguin Capital LLC, Phumelela Publishers (Pty) Ltd, ProctorCam Inc., Reading Property Holdings LLC, Rebus Planning Associates Inc., Reston Publishing Company Inc., Rycade Capital Corporation, Shanghai AWL Education Software Ltd, Silver Burdett Ginn Inc., Skylight Training and Publishing Inc., Smarthinking Inc., Sound Holdings Inc., Spear Insurance Company Limited, Stark Verlag GmbH, Sunnykey International Holdings Limited (BVI), TQ Catalis Limited, TQ Clapham Limited, TQ Education and Training Limited, TQ Global Limited, TQ Group Limited, TQ Holdings Limited, The Financial Times (I) Pvt Ltd, The Learning Edge International pty Ltd, The Waite Group Inc, Trio Parent Holdings LLC, US Learning Services LLC, USLS Holdings LLC, Virtual Nerd, Vue Testing Services Israel Ltd, Vue Testing Services Korea Limited, Wall Street Institute Kft., Williams Education GmbH, eCollege.com, and Editions Du Renouveau Pedagogique Inc.. You are here: China Chinese space tracking ship the Yuanwang-3 departed Tuesday to carry out four maritime space monitoring and communication missions for the BeiDou-3 and other satellites. The missions will be conducted in the Pacific Ocean. On Aug. 7, the Yuanwang-3 returned to port and finished its last mission, maritime space monitoring and communication for BeiDou-2 and other satellites. The vessel prepared itself in terms of equipment maintenance and emergency response. As the second-generation space tracking ship of the Yuanwang series, Yuanwang-3 entered service in the mid-1990s. The Yuanwang-1 and Yuanwang-2 ships, China's first-generation space tracking vessels, entered service in 1979. BeiDou, named after the Chinese term for the Big Dipper, is a Chinese-developed global positioning system. It currently has 38 satellites, the first of which was launched in 2000. BeiDou was listed on a global satellite search and rescue implementation plan in February by COSPAS-SARSAT, an international satellite system for search and rescue. The following companies are subsidiares of Roper Technologies: 3089554 Nova Scotia ULC, AC Analytical Controls B.V., AC Analytical Controls Holding B.V., AC Analytical Controls Services B.V., Acumen PM LLC, Aderant Canada Company, Aderant Company, Aderant Holdings Inc., Aderant International Holdings Inc., Aderant Legal (UK) Limited, Aderant Legal Holdings (AUS) Pty Ltd, Aderant Legal Holdings (NZ) ULC, Aderant Legal Holdings Inc., Aderant North America Inc., Aderant Parent Holdings Inc., Advanced Sensors Limited, Alpha Holdings of Delaware I LLC, Alpha Holdings of Delaware II LLC, Alpha Technologies B.V., Alpha Technologies GmbH, Alpha Technologies Japan LLC, Alpha Technologies Services LLC, Alpha Technologies U.K., Alpha Technologies s.r.o., Alpha Trust Corporation, Alpha UK Holdings LLC, Amot Controls Corporation, Amot Controls GmbH, Amot/Metrix Investment Company Inc., Amphire Solutions Inc., Amtech Systems (Hong Kong) Limited, Amtech Systems LLC, Amtech World Corporation, Aplifi Inc., Ascension Technology Corporation, Assureweb Limited, Atlantic Health Partners Inc., Avitru LLC, Axium Holdco Inc., C/S Solutions Inc., CBORD Holdings Corp., CIVCO Medical Solutions B.V., Centurion Research Solutions LLC, Civco Holding Inc., Civco Medical Instruments Co. Inc., CliniSys Group, CliniSys Group Limited, Clinisys Scotland Limited, Clinisys Solutions Limited, Cointec Ingenieros y Consultores S.L., Compressor Controls (Beijing) Corporation Ltd., Compressor Controls Corporation B.V., Compressor Controls Corporation Middle East, Compressor Controls Corporation S.r.l., Compressor Controls LLC, Compressor Controls Mauritius Ltd., Compressor Controls Pty Ltd., Compressor Controls Saudi Arabia LLC, ConstructConnect, ConstructConnect Canada Inc., ConstructConnect Inc., Cornell Pump Company, DAT Solutions LLC, DATSolutions Private Limited, DCMH Group Holdings Inc., DCMH Group Holdings LLC, DCMH Holdings Inc., DI Acquisition Subsidiary Inc., DI Dutch Holdings LLC, DI Hong Kong Limited, Dash I Inc., Data Innovations, Data Innovations Canada Ltd., Data Innovations Cooperatief U.A., Data Innovations Europe S.A., Data Innovations LLC, Data Innovations Latin America Ltda, Dawning Technologies LLC, Deltek, Deltek Ajera Inc., Deltek Asia Pacific (HK) Limited, Deltek Australia Pty Ltd., Deltek Danmark A/S, Deltek France SAS, Deltek GB Limited, Deltek GmbH, Deltek Inc., Deltek Nederland B.V., Deltek Netherlands B.V., Deltek Norge AS, Deltek Sverige AB, Deltek Systems (Canada) Inc., Deltek Systems (Colorado) Inc., Deltek Systems (Philippines) Ltd., Deltek WST LLC, Dominion I Inc., Dynamic Instruments Inc., Dynisco Enterprises GmbH, Dynisco Enterprises LLC, Dynisco Europe GmbH, Dynisco Holding GmbH, Dynisco Hong Kong Holdings Limited, Dynisco Instruments LLC, Dynisco Instruments S.a.r.l., Dynisco LLC, Dynisco Parent Inc., Dynisco S.r.l., Dynisco Viatran LLC, Dynisco Viatran (M) Sdn Bhd, Dynisco-Viatran Instrument Sdn Bhd, FMS Purchasing & Services Inc., FSI Holdings Inc., FTI Flow Technology Inc., Fluid Metering Inc., Foodlink Holdings Inc., Foodlink IT India Private Limited, Foundry, Foundry Visionmongers (Ireland) Limited, GeneInsight Inc., Getloaded Corporation, HRsmart Canada Inc., HRsmart Czech Republic, HRsmart France SAS, HRsmart Germany GmbH, HRsmart Inc., HRsmart International, HRsmart International Holdings LLC, HRsmart Mexico, HRsmart SA (Pty) Ltd., HRsmart Talent Management Solutions Europe Limited, HRsmart Ventures LLC, Handshake Software Inc., Hansco Automatisering B.V., Hansen Technologies Corporation, Harbour Holding Corp., Hardy Process Solutions, Horizon Software International LLC, INPUT Inc., IPA Acquisition Subsidiary Inc., ISL Finance SAS, ISL Holding SAS, ISL Scientifique de Laboratorie - ISL S.A.S., IT Canada Holdings LLC, Innovative Product Achievements LLC, Inovonics Corporation, Instill Corporation, IntelliTrans Limited, Intellitrans Canada Ltd., Intellitrans LLC, Intellitrans Sweden AB, Job Access LTDA, K/S Roper Holding, K/S Roper Investments, Laser App Inc., Link Logistics Holding LLC, Loadlink Technologies Corporation, Logitech Limited, MED Professional Services LLC, MEDTEC Inc., MHA Long Term Care Network Inc., MHA Long Term Care Services Inc., MIPS Austria GesmbH, MIPS CZ s.r.o, MIPS Deutschland GmbH, MIPS France Sarl, MIPS Nederland B.V., MIPS Schweiz AG, MIPS Software Iberica SL, MPR Readers Inc., Managed Health Care Associates Inc., Marumoto Struers K.K., Medical Information Professional Systems NV, Medina Acquisition LLC, Metrix Instrument Co. L.P., NDI Europe GmbH, Navigator Group Purchasing Inc., Neptune Technology Group (Canada) Co., Neptune Technology Group Inc., Neptune Technology Group Mexico S.de R.L. de C.V., Neptune Technology Group Mexico Services S. de R.L. de C.V., Neptune Technology Group Services Inc., Nippon Roper K.K., Northern Digital Inc., Off-Campus Advantage LLC, Omega Legal Systems Inc., PAC (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PAC Denmark ApS, PAC GmbH, PAC Instruments (Thailand) Company Limited, PAC Instruments Asia PTE. Ltd., PB Bidco Limited, PB Holdco Limited, PB Midco Limited, PB Topco Limited, PGP UK Limited, Petroleum Analyzer Company L.P., Phase Analyzer Company Ltd., PowerPlan, PowerPlan Canada ULC, PowerPlan Holdings Inc., PowerPlan Inc., PowerPlan Intermediate Holdings Inc., PowerPlan Operations ANZ Pty Ltd, PowerPlan Operations Ltd., Project Diamond Intermediate Holdings Corporation, Project Torque Intermediate Holdings Inc., Project Viking Holdings Inc., Project Viking Intermediate LLC, QSC 1208 Limited, QSC 1209 Limited, RF IDeas, RF IDeas Inc., RI Marketing India Private Limited, RIL Holding Limited, RMT Inc., RT Merger Sub Inc., Rebate Tracking Group LLC, Resonant Software Inc., Roda Deaco Valve Inc., Roper Acquisitions Holdings Inc., Roper Brasil Comercio E Promocao De Productos E Servicos LTDA, Roper Canada Holdings LP, Roper Canada UK Limited, Roper Denmark UK Limited, Roper EUR Pte. Ltd., Roper Engineering s.r.o., Roper Europe GmbH, Roper GM Denmark Holdings ApS, Roper Germany GmbH, Roper Germany GmbH & Co. KG, Roper Holdings LLC, Roper Holdings Limited, Roper IH LLC, Roper Industrial Products Investment Company, Roper Industries Denmark ApS, Roper Industries Deutschland GmbH, Roper Industries Inc., Roper Industries Limited, Roper Industries Manufacturing (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Roper Industries Mauritius Ltd., Roper Industries UK Limited, Roper International Holding Inc., Roper International Holding Limited, Roper International Holding SCS, Roper LLC, Roper Luxembourg Finance S.a.r.l., Roper Luxembourg Holdings S.a.r.l., Roper Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Roper Middle East Ltd., Roper NL1 UK Limited, Roper NL2 UK Limited, Roper Pte. Ltd., Roper Pump Company, Roper Scientific B.V., Roper Scientific SAS, Roper Scot LP, Roper Southeast Asia LLC, Roper Swiss Finance GmbH, Roper UK Investments Limited, Roper UK Ltd., Roper US Finance I LLC, Roper US Finance II LLC, Roper-Mex L.P., Ropintassco 1 LLC, Ropintassco 2 LLC, Ropintassco 3 LLC, Ropintassco 4 LLC, Ropintassco 5 LLC, Ropintassco 6 LLC, Ropintassco 7 LLC, Ropintassco Holdings L.P., SHP Group Holdings Inc., SIRA LLC, Shanghai Roper Industries Trading Co. Ltd., Sinmed Holding International B.V., Societe de Distribution de Logiciels Medicaux, SoftWriters Inc., Softwriters Holdings, Softwriters Holdings Inc., Sohnar Pty Ltd, Star Purchasing Services LLC, Strata Acquisition Subsidiary Inc., Strata Decision Technology LLC, Strata Parallel II Inc., Strategic Healthcare Programs Blocker 2 Inc., Strategic Healthcare Programs Blocker LLC, Strategic Healthcare Programs Holdings LLC, Strategic Healthcare Programs L.L.C., Struers (Shanghai) International Trading Ltd., Struers A/S, Struers GmbH, Struers Inc., Struers Limited, Struers SAS, Student Advantage LLC, Sunquest Europe Limited, Sunquest Holdings Inc., Sunquest Information Systems (Europe) Limited, Sunquest Information Systems (India) Private Limited, Sunquest Information Systems (International) Limited, Sunquest Information Systems Inc., Sunquest Information Systems Pty Ltd, TLP Holdings LLC, Technolog Group Limited, Technolog Holdings Ltd., Technolog Limited, Technolog SARL, The CBORD Group Inc., The Foundry Bidco Limited, The Foundry Bidco No.2 Limited, The Foundry Holdco Limited, The Foundry Holdings Limited, The Foundry Intermediate Holdings Limited, The Foundry Midco 3 Limited, The Foundry Midco No 1 Limited, The Foundry Midco No 2 Limited, The Foundry Topco Limited, The Foundry Topco No.2 Limited, The Foundry USCo Inc., The Foundry Visionmongers Ltd., The Tidewater Healthcare Shared Services Group Inc., The Washington Management Group Inc., Torque Acquisition Holdco Inc., Transcore Atlantic Inc., Transcore CNUS Inc., Transcore Holdings Inc., Transcore ITS LLC, Transcore LP, Transcore Nova Scotia Corporation, Transcore Partners LLC, Trinity Integrated Systems Limited, UHF Purchasing Services LLC, Union Square Software (International) Limited, Union Square Software Inc., Union Square Software Limited, Union Square Software Pty, Uson L.P., Uson Limited, Utilitec Limited, Utilitec Services Limited, Utility Data Services Limited, Verathon Holdings (Delaware) Inc., Verathon Inc., Verathon Medical (Australia) Pty Limited, Verathon Medical (Canada) ULC, Verathon Medical (Europe) B.V., Verathon Medical (France) SARL, Verathon Medical (Hong Kong) Limited, Verathon Medical (Japan) K.K., Verathon Medical (UK) Ltd., Vertafore, Vertafore Canada Inc., Vertafore Inc., Vertafore India Private Limited, Viastar Services LP, Viatran Corporation, Walter Herzog GmbH, WorkBook APAC Ltd., Workbook Software A/S, Zetec (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Zetec France, Zetec Inc., Zetec Korea Inc., Zetec Rental LLC, Zetec Services Inc., iPipeline, iPipeline (TCP) Limited, iPipeline Canada Inc, iPipeline Co. Ltd., iPipeline Holdings Inc, iPipeline Inc, iPipeline Limited, iSqFt Holdings Inc., iSqFt Parent Corporation, iSqFt Sub Inc., iTradeNetwork Inc., and mySBX Corporation. RSA Insurance Group plc provides personal and commercial general insurance products. It operates through Scandinavia, Canada, and UK & International segments. The company offers a range of personal insurance products, including home, car, pet, and travel insurance products directly to individuals and families, as well as through brokers and agents. It also provides commercial insurance products, such as property, vehicle and fleet, professional liability, and indemnity and travel insurance, as well as marine, renewable energy, construction and engineering, and rail insurance for small to medium sized enterprises, multinational companies, and sole traders. The company was formerly known as Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Group plc and changed its name to RSA Insurance Group plc in May 2008. RSA Insurance Group plc was founded in 1706 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom. Read More The Boeing Co. is an aerospace company, which engages in the manufacture of commercial jetliners and defense, space and security systems. It operates through the following segments: Commercial Airplanes; Defense, Space and Security; Global Services; and Boeing Capital. The Commercial Airplanes segment includes the development, production, and market of commercial jet aircraft and provides fleet support services, principally to the commercial airline industry worldwide. The Defense, Space and Security segment refers to the research, development, production and modification of manned and unmanned military aircraft and weapons systems for global strike, including fighter and combat rotorcraft aircraft and missile systems; global mobility, including tanker, rotorcraft and tilt-rotor aircraft; and airborne surveillance and reconnaissance, including command and control, battle management and airborne anti-submarine aircraft. The Global Services segment provides services to commercial and defense customers. The Boeing Capital segment seeks to ensure that Boeing customers have the financing they need to buy and take delivery of their Boeing product and manages overall financing exposure. T Read More Xcel Energy, Inc. operates as a holding company, which engages in the generation, purchase, transmission, distribution and sale of electricity. It operates through the following three segments: Regulated Electric Utility, Regulated Natural Gas Utility and All Others. The Regulated Electric Utility segment generates, transmits and distributes electricity primarily in portions of generates, transmits and distributes electricity in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, Colorado, Texas and New Mexico. In addition, this segment includes sales for resale and provides wholesale transmission service to various entities in the United States. It also includes commodity trading operations. The Regulated Natural Gas Utility segment transports, stores, and distributes natural gas primarily in portions of Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Michigan and Colorado. The All Others segment engages in steam, appliance repair services, nonutility real estate activities, processing solid waste into refuse-derived fuel and investments in rental housing projects that qualify for low-income housing tax credits. The company was founded in 1909 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN. Read More An academic from the University of Wolverhampton took his expertise overseas on a recent trip to Nigeria. Dr Opeolu Ojo, Senior Lecturer in Biotechnology in the School of Sciences, was invited by the Obafemi Awolowo University and the charitable organisation, Bioscience Research Education and Advisory Centre (BREAC), to run a series of workshops on biotechnology for academics and researchers from across the country. Dr Ojo visited universities and research institutions, promoting University of Wolverhampton research projects and identifying development opportunities. He said: I delivered successful workshops to people who came from six geopolitical zones of Nigeria as well as from other African countries. I met key officers from the universities I visited and forged some interesting alliances with academics who are keen to work with the University of Wolverhampton to deliver postgraduate programmes and to get involved with research projects. There are several opportunities which could be explored in Nigeria to expand the reach of the University and increase recruitment from this country. "The University of Wolverhampton had a large Nigerian population, particularly for Masters courses, before the recent changes in immigration rules which discouraged some students to come to the UK. Therefore, approaches such as Transnational Education (TNE) and strategic collaboration for research and training can be explored as a way of further tapping into the potential in Nigeria. Sharing work at Wolverhampton with academic staff members of the department at the University of Ibadan, currently one of the top 3 Universities in the Nigeria, led Dr Ojo to mentoring two young scientists who have expressed interests in PhD research at Wolverhampton and one of the scientists will be visiting Wolverhampton in 2019 to conduct some diabetes related studies. 'Rock star' librarian Carla Hayden takes center stage at W&M Librarian of Congress: Carla Hayden is the first librarian to hold the position of U.S. Librarian of Congress in 60 years. Photo by Stephen Salpukas Photo - of - Hide Caption As she prepared to take the stage in the Commonwealth Auditorium Friday night, Carla Hayden was approached by a fan. He asked for her autograph and then asked if she had ever touched the Constitution. Well, the draft, she said. As the 14th U.S. Librarian of Congress and first woman and first African-American to hold that role Hayden is considered by many as something akin to the Mick Jagger of librarians, and that status showed during her visit to W&M. One audience member wore a Hayden T-shirt, and even W&M President Katherine A. Rowe expressed her fandom. I feel like Im introducing a rock star, Rowe said. Referencing Haydens work with Baltimore and Chicagos libraries and her time serving as the president of the American Libraries Association, Rowe said that Hayden has led the way in the nations understanding of how libraries are critical to diversity, inclusion and democracy. That insight is ever more important in a world where the way we study, learn, share and steward knowledge is changing so rapidly, said Rowe. Stewards of the oldest forms of knowledge and test kitchens at the cutting edge of knowledge: That's how I think about libraries. And if you will excuse me the metaphor, Dr. Hayden, if the library is the test kitchen, then you are our master chef. Hayden spoke to more than 300 people at the event, which was sponsored by W&M Libraries and a part of the universitys 100th anniversary celebration of coeducation. Throughout the 2018-2019 academic year, W&M is recognizing the anniversary with a series of special events, including Womens Weekend, which was held Sept. 21-23. Hayden, who received an honorary degree from W&M last year, began the day by having lunch with the staff of W&M Libraries, including students. Since coming to William & Mary in 2011, Ive been struck by how many of our undergraduates choose careers in libraries and archives, said Dean of University Libraries Carrie Cooper at the luncheon. William & Mary students place a high priority on service to one another, our communities, our country and the world. As library professionals, service to community is what we do. Its who we are. And, Dr. Carla Hayden embodies this deep commitment to community. I am grateful for her leadership and the excitement she brings to our profession and libraries everywhere. At her public talk Friday night, Hayden discussed the role of libraries today and the changes she has seen throughout her career, including a greater understanding of different types of literacy and an openness to different types of literature. People read differently, and we need to make room for that, she said. Libraries remain popular today outnumbering McDonalds about eight to one and are as important as ever, Hayden said, referencing the new book Palaces for the People. They are equalizers, she said. Theyre a place that provides more than just free access to books. Libraries today offer childcare, job search assistance, computer classes and more. Some libraries even offer such things as a culinary literacy center, entrepreneurship center and business incubator, fishing pole rentals, homeless outreach programs, autism resource center, a virtual supermarket and a professional social worker on staff. Its a welcome place for all people, and they know we dont ask questions, Hayden said. The creed of librarianship is that we only ask you enough to help you with what you need. Confession of a librarian: We really want to know. But it has become a refuge. Transitioning to the Library of Congress, Hayden discovered almost an embarrassment of riches, and she has had multiple pinch-me moments along the way, she said, including an opportunity to read Frederick Douglass papers and see his feelings about the death of Abraham Lincoln reflected in his handwriting. Douglass was particularly angry about the fact that people of color, whom Lincoln had done so much for, were not allowed to pay their respects when he was lying in state. Soon after that happened, Hayden, a native of Illinois, was able to go home and see the Lincoln library and museum and walk past the re-creation of his lying in state at the capitol. When I think about what I could do at the Library of Congress is to join with others throughout this country and even the world to make more of these treasures, to make more of these real things, accessible, she said. Technology is going to be the key. We can do it. During a Q&A at the end of Haydens talk, Aria Austin 21, a government major and English minor, asked Hayden how to keep people reading. Mainly, you start with the little ones, she said, praising early education programs that take reading differences into account. And then loosen up about reading. Dont make reading a chore, Hayden added. Let them read if they want to read on a tablet or read Manga or read whatever let them read, she said. We are family: Parents, relatives spend a weekend on campus Family Weekend: A family poses for a photo together. Photo by Stephen Salpukas Family Weekend: A family enjoys one of the weekend's performances together. Photo by Stephen Salpukas Family Weekend: Families line up for lunch in the Wren Yard. Photo by Stephen Salpukas Family Weekend: A family tours the ISC's greenhouse. Photo by Stephen Salpukas Photo - of - Hide Caption With parents and families teeming across the William & Mary campus, Family Weekend was ushered in with autumnal bliss, a change from the overwhelming heat and torrential downpours of recent weeks. The packed weekend offered several fun and interactive events for families and students, occurring just over a month after new W&M students started at the university. The weather was perfect for the weekend and allowed us to soak in all the natural beauty of the campus thats tucked right in the heart of Williamsburg, said Bill Jones, father of Meg Jones 22. His daughter commented on the joy of seeing her parents, especially since they are not as readily available to see her as often as her friends from Virginia. As an out-of-state student, it was really great to get to see my parents, she said. Even though Meg Jones, who is from Pennsylvania, recently saw her parents during Hurricane Florence evacuation, she was excited to see them again. I was so happy to that I could have them down here at my new home and that there were so many activities for us to enjoy together. Some of those activities included tours of the Wren Building and green house, salsa dance lessons, a study abroad fair, lantern tours of the campus during the evening, and an a cappella showcase, among many more. Jones, who is a member of Passing Notes, one of the all-women a cappella groups on campus, was excited to show her parents the hard work she and her group have put in over the last month. Her parents spoke highly of the concert. Our favorite part of the weekend was William & Mary Sings, said Meg Joness mom, Lori Jones. Every group was amazing! The Jones family also took part in the lantern tour of historic campus, saying it added to their perspective of the history of the campus. We were impressed with the historical knowledge of our tour guide in the Wren Building for the lantern tour, said Lori Jones. In addition to the many festivities, both musical and academic, a highlight of the weekend included a speech given by Carla Hayden, the 14th Librarian of Congress, who received an honorary degree from W&M last year. Hayden is the first woman and first African American to be appointed to the position. An inspiring speaker for Family Weekend, her words on the importance of the library sciences, asking important questions that demand answers, and more touched many of those in the audience. After a weekend packed to the brim of many activities highlighting the students, the campus and surrounding community, many families leave in awe of the energy of William & Mary. I thought it was an enjoyable weekend and gave us plenty of opportunities to learn about the many aspects of being part of the Tribe, said Bill Jones. Asked if he had any suggestions for the weekend, Bill Jones joked, If you could move it a few hours closer to Pittsburgh, Id really appreciate the reduction in travel time. While moving the campus would be a feat in and of itself, counting on Family Weekend to unite families and celebrate the fall semester will always be a guarantee. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. The year 2018 marked the completion of the first five years of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). On this occasion, while addressing a conference at Beijing, President Xi Jinping shared his vision, and also highlighted the complex problems and risks involved. He stressed the nature of the Initiative as an economic cooperation rather than any sort of geopolitical or military alliance, intended to create an open club promoting inclusiveness instead of being in any way an exclusive "China Club." Xi also focused on the elements of making joint efforts in developing dialogue, economic integration and win-win cooperation by providing opportunities for the common development based on mutual trust. The grand project was started with an historic speech of President Xi on China's Central Asia strategy at Nazarbayev University in Astana, Kazakhstan. There, he proposed for the first time the building of a "Silk Road Economic Belt." Later in the same year, while addressing Indonesia's Parliament in Jakarta, he went further in his ambitions and proposed the building of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. The BRI ever-since has become a focal point of China's foreign policy with five core areas of infrastructure development, strengthening political cooperation, developing trade ties, financial integration and people-to-people exchanges. Accomplishments in the last five years In the last five years, many projects have been successfully completed, mainly funded by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), EXIM Bank and the China Development Bank. Some of the biggest, each worth over US$1 billion, are: Railway network constructions in Laos and Malaysia Seaport construction and modernization in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Turkey and Israel Power plant construction in Vietnam, Pakistan, Russia, Indonesia, Laos, Nepal and Bangladesh Oil and gas pipe networks construction in Brunei, Myanmar, UAE, Pakistan, Russia, South Africa, Iraq and Kazakhstan Real estate projects in South Korea, Sri Lanka and Malaysia Logistics centers in Singapore Steel mill construction/purchase in Mongolia, India, and Serbia Financial sector investments in Singapore, South Korea, and the Czech Republic In the past five years, China has poured almost $80 billion into non-financial sectors of the wider region to support the Initiative. It has set up 82 overseas economic and trade cooperation zones, creating about 244,000 local jobs. Additionally, as of May 2018, it had signed 16 free trade agreements with 24 countries and regions, as well as new construction contracts worth $57.11 billion have been awarded along the Belt and Road. To further boost integration through cultural and academic exchanges, China has set up 81 educational institutions and 35 cultural centers. In the first half of 2018 alone, it spent around $39.3 million on Silk Road scholarships. Way ahead Thus, it is evident that the BRI so far has been moving in a positive direction. Covering nearly two-thirds of the world's population, this mega initiative has already started opening doors of prosperity for more than 103 countries across Asia, Europe and Africa. In the past five years, China's trade in goods with countries involved in the BRI has already exceeded $5.5 trillion and still has massive growth potential with further investments in the pipeline. The whole idea is to provide development opportunities not only to less developed regions by helping them to get rid of poverty but also to developed groups of countries through regional integration and creating new avenues for further progress. In this regard, China, in the coming decades, plans to spend over $1 trillion on the projects falling under the BRI, focusing mainly on free trade zones, railways, ports, energy pipelines and grids to improve land and sea connectivity, and wide-ranging cooperation facilitating a free flow of goods, services, personnel, capital and information. Additionally, the primary focus is more on projects that can generate real values to the local people, and bring social benefits. Hence, China will emphasize on developing balanced trade relations by substantially increasing import from countries along Belt and Road routes. Moreover, it will cooperate with relevant countries in a number of fields: healthcare, education, culture and environment protection and help them in training more talent. Furthermore, it will extend its third party cooperation with developed countries. Currently, the Chinese and Japanese governments are working on details to cooperate on Thailand's Eastern Economic Corridor projects. Although the initiative is big in ambition and may have some setbacks, its successful implementation will inject huge vitality in the world's economy. Rachana Gupta is a China Focus columnist, an expert author of Ezine Articles and an active blogger and poetry writer. Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors only, not necessarily those of China.org.cn. Flash U.S. State Department said Tuesday that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) for further talks concerning the country's denuclearization. In a press briefing, State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said that Pompeo will talk with DPRK's top leader, Kim Jong Un, on Sunday. Pompeo would also travel to Japan, South Korea and China on Oct. 6-8 to brief them about his visit, she added. Noting that Pompeo is making his fourth trip to the DPRK in less than a year, Nauert said, "we have quite a ways to go but we look forward to the next steps in this conversation." Refusing to say that talks with the DPRK has been stalled, she said "the secretary and the president said we're not going to set arbitrary deadlines in the interim. We're hopeful." She added that "among the things that the secretary discussed were security assurances," referring to Pompeo's agenda in the DPRK. Nauert also said that "obviously these conversations are going in the right direction." The DPRK on Saturday demanded the United States take steps to secure Pyongyang's trust before its denuclearization. "Without any trust in the U.S. there will be no confidence in our national security and under such circumstances there is no way we will unilaterally disarm ourselves first," DPRK's Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho told the UN General Assembly. The key to consolidating peace and security on the Korean Peninsula is to thoroughly implement the joint statement adopted at the historic summit between DPRK top leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump in Singapore in June, said Ri. Speaking before a meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in in New York recently, Trump announced that himself and Kim will hold a second summit "in the not too distant future." After a meeting between Pompeo and Ri on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, the State Department announced that Pompeo will travel to the DPRK to discuss the second Trump-Kim summit. In his speech at the UN General Assembly, Trump thanked Kim "for his courage and for the steps he has taken." But he added that much work remains to be done and that the sanctions against the DPRK will stay in place "until denuclearization occurs." Israeli police will question Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday on corruption suspicions, according to Israeli media. Investigators will grill Netanyahu on suspicions that he awarded favors to Israels telecom company Bezeq Telecom in return for favorable coverage on the companys news site, according to Israeli Channel Two on Wednesday. Netanyahu was quizzed by investigators for four hours in August over the same case. Netanyahu has been the subject of criminal investigations in separate corruption cases. He has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In February, Israeli police recommended that Netanyahu be indicted for alleged corruption, saying there was now sufficient evidence to formally charge him in two separate graft cases. The first case involves Israeli Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan, who was allegedly asked to purchase luxury items for Netanyahu and his wife. The second relates to an alleged deal -- again for favorable media coverage -- with Arnon Mozes, publisher of Hebrew-language daily Yedioth Ahronoth. You are here: World Flash Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday responded to the second round of the Diplomatic and Security Dialogue with the United States being postponed. China and the United States had previously agreed in principle to hold the second round of their Diplomatic and Security Dialogue in mid-October, while the United States recently proposed putting off the dialogue, spokesperson Hua Chunying said. Hua's remarks came after some U.S. media outlets reported that China had proposed the postponement. "China and the United States will continue their communication on holding the second round of the Diplomatic and Security Dialogue," she said. Flash Officials and economic scholars from the Group of Twenty (G20) countries have called for greater efforts to maintain multilateralism amid surging unilateralism and protectionism. They made the call during a think tank forum in Shanghai on Sept. 29 aiming to offer suggestions on the issues to be discussed in this year's G20 summit scheduled to be held in Argentina's capital of Buenos Aires from Nov. 30 to Dec. 1. In his annual address to the United Nations General Assembly last week, U.S. President Donald Trump urged the world to reject globalism. Faced with rising unilateralism and protectionism, Argentinian ambassador to China Diego Ramiro Guelar expressed his concerns over the trade wars Trump has ignited with other G20 members. "It's going to be a great challenge for the G20 organization," he said. Moreover, the global multilateral trading system under the framework of the World Trade Organization (WTO) is facing unprecedented challenges and uncertainties, and various experts at the forum offered their opinions on reforming the body. "The WTO should be saved. It's the only trade form where all the major economies are represented," said Andre de Mello e Souza, a senior research fellow at the Institute for Applied Economic Research of Brazil, adding that global economies should "think of ways to move forward and to save the WTO". Dhrubajyoti Bhattacharjee, research fellow at Indian Council of World Affairs, stressed the WTO platform "should not be off the menu even if its outcomes are not fulfilling." He Shuquan, professor at the School of Economics at Shanghai University, noted that some necessary changes needed to be made, however, to keep the WTO functioning well. "When we change something, all the members should put forward their suggestions, not just one or two players putting forward their plans," he added. The upcoming G20 summit in Argentina is seen as a good opportunity for member countries to settle disputes and step up efforts to maintain multilateralism and safeguard the achievements of globalization. "If we don't work together [to safeguard multilateralism], there won't be a future for fair trade in the world," said Pablo Ava, head of Policy and Research of the Argentina Council of Foreign Relations. The Think 20, or T20, is a major platform for global high-level experts to provide ideas to help the G20 in delivering concrete and sustainable policy measures. The Shanghai forum, with the theme of "G20, Globalization and Belt and Road Initiative: Perspectives for a Shared Future", was jointly organized by the Institute of Global Studies of Shanghai University and the Argentine Council for International Relations. Flash The 2018 Nobel Prize in Physics has been awarded to three scientists working the field of laser physics, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced in Stockholm on Tuesday. Half of the award "for groundbreaking inventions in the field of laser physics" went to American Arthur Ashkin and the other half was awarded jointly to Frenchman Gerard Mourou and Canadian Donna Strickland. Strickland said in a telephone interview with the academy at a press conference that she was happy and surprised to be receiving the prize, which she looked forward to accepting in Stockholm in December. Commenting on her achievements, she emphasized how she "tries to think outside of the box." The inventions being honoured this year have revolutionized laser physics. Extremely small objects and incredibly rapid processes are now being seen in a new light. Advanced precision instruments are opening up unexplored areas of research and a multitude of industrial and medical applications, according to a statement released by The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. Ashkin invented optical tweezers that grab particles, atoms, viruses and other living cells with their laser beam fingers. This new tool allowed Ashkin to realize an old dream of science fiction -- using the radiation pressure of light to move physical objects. He succeeded in getting laser light to push small particles towards the center of the beam and to hold them there, according to the statement. A major breakthrough came in 1987, when Ashkin used the tweezers to capture living bacteria without harming them. He immediately began studying biological systems, and optical tweezers are now widely used to investigate the machinery of life, the statement added. Mourou and Strickland paved the way towards the shortest and most intense laser pulses ever created by mankind. Their revolutionary article was published in 1985 and was the foundation of Strickland's doctoral thesis. Using an ingenious approach, they succeeded in creating ultra-short, high-intensity laser pulses without destroying the amplifying material. First they stretched the laser pulses in time to reduce their peak power, then amplified them, and finally compressed them. If a pulse is compressed in time and becomes shorter, then more light is packed together in the same tiny space and the intensity of the pulse increases dramatically. Strickland and Mourou's invented technique, called chirped pulse amplification (CPA) soon became standard for subsequent high-intensity lasers. Its uses include the millions of corrective eye surgeries that are conducted every year using the sharpest of laser beams. The statement said there are still innumerable areas of application that have not yet been completely explored. "This year's discovery is about making strong pulses, but also short pulses. They are so short that we can time them as never before. This is a big area of research at the moment. Many scientists are trying to figure out how can we do this, and if you can do that, you can learn a lot more about many basic processes, of for example, the chemical reactions, how they started. Since we get to know how they happened, we are able to steer it (the process), and we can use our knowledge to design what is going to happen." Eva Lindroth, member of the Class for Physics at The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, told Xinhua in an interview after the announcement. "I think it's really nice that Donna Strickland, as a female scientist, got the Prize this year. It's also important to know that she got this for her doctoral thesis work, so it's a good signal to young people, that you can do something very important very early in your career," Lindroth emphasized. "I hope more female scientists to win Noble science prizes in future. There are more and more women scientists, so I think it (male dominance) will change, and more female scientists are leading research groups, playing a bigger role, these are also important," Lindroth added. This year's prize is 9 million Swedish krona (about 1 million U.S. dollars). The Democratic Party is widely favored to win control of the House of Representatives in the US midterm elections November 6, with projections that it will gain 30 to 50 seats, or even more, well above the net gain of 23 required for a majority. The last time the Democratic Party won control of the House from the Republicans was in 2006, when it captured 30 Republican seats on the basis of a limited appeal to the massive antiwar sentiment among working people after three years of disastrous and bloody warfare in Iraq, and five years after the US invasion and occupation of Afghanistan. In stark contrast, there is not a hint of an antiwar campaign by the Democratic challengers seeking Republican seats in the 2018 elections. On the contrary, the pronouncements of leading Democrats on foreign policy issues have been strongly pro-war, attacking the Trump administration from the right for its alleged softness on Russia and its hostility to traditional US-led alliances like NATO. This is particularly true of the 30 Democratic congressional nominees in competitive races who come from a national-security background. These challengers, previously identified by the World Socialist Web Site as the CIA Democrats, constitute the largest single grouping among Democratic nominees in competitive seats, more than state and local officials, lawyers or those wealthy enough to finance their own campaigns. The 30 national-security candidates include six actual CIA, FBI or military intelligence agents, six State Department or other civilian national security officials, 11 combat veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan, all but one an officer, and seven other military veterans, including pilots, naval officers and military prosecutors (JAGs). The range of views expressed by these 30 candidates is quite limited. With only one exception, Jared Golden, running in the First District of Maine, the military-intelligence Democrats do not draw any negative conclusions from their experience in leading, planning or fighting in the wars of the past 25 years, including two wars against Iraq, the invasion of Afghanistan, and other military engagements in the Persian Gulf and North and East Africa. Golden, who is also the only rank-and-file combat veteranas opposed to an officerand the only one who admits to having suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, criticizes congressional rubber-stamping of the wars of the past 20 years. Over the past decade and a half, America has spent trillions on the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and on other conflicts across the globe, his campaign website declares. War should be a last resort, and only undertaken when the security interests of America are clearly present, and the risks and costs can be appropriately justified to the American people. These sentiments hardly qualify as antiwar, but they sound positively radical compared to the materials posted on the websites of many of the other military-intelligence candidates. In some ways, Golden is the exception that proves the rule. What used to be the standard rhetoric of Democratic Party candidates when running against the administration of George W. Bush has been entirely scrapped in the course of the Obama administration, the first in American history to have been engaged in a major military conflict for every day of its eight years. All the other national-security candidates accept as a basic premise that the United States must maintain its dominant world position. The most detailed foreign policy doctrine appears on the website of Amy McGrath, who is now favored to win her contest against incumbent Republican incumbent Andy Barr in the Sixth Congressional District of Kentucky. McGrath follows closely the line of the Obama administration and the Hillary Clinton presidential campaign, supporting the Iran nuclear deal that Trump tore up, embracing Israel, warning of North Koreas development of nuclear weapons, and declaring it critical that the US work with our allies and partners in the region to counter Chinas advances in the South China Sea and elsewhere in Asia. But Russia is clearly the main target of US national-security efforts, in her view. She writes, Our Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has testified that Russia is the greatest threat to American security. Russia poses an existential threat to the United States due to its nuclear weapons and its behavior in the past several years has been disturbing. Russias aggression in Georgia, Crimea, Ukraine, and Syria has been alarming. Its becoming more assertive in the Arctic, likely the most important geostrategic zone of competition in the coming decades. The US should consider providing defensive arms to Ukraine and exerting more pressure on Moscow using economic sanctions. She concludes by calling for an investigation modeled on the 9/11 Commission into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 elections. Five other national-security candidates focus on specific warnings about the danger of Russia and China, thus aligning themselves with the new national security orientation set in the most recent Pentagon strategy document, which declares that the principal US national security challenge is no longer the war on terror, but the prospect of great power conflicts, above all with Russia and China. Jessica Morse, a former State Department and AID official in Iraq, running in the Fourth District of California, blasts the Trump administration for giving away global leadership to powers like China and Russia. Our security and our economy will both suffer if those countries are left to re-write the international rules. Former FBI agent Christopher Hunter, running in the 12th District of Florida, declares, Russia is a clear and present danger to the United States. We emerged victorious over the Soviet Union in the Cold War. We must resolve anew to secure an uncompromising victory over Russia and its tyrannical regime. Elissa Slotkin, the former CIA agent and Pentagon official running in Michigans Eighth Congressional District, cites her 14 years of experience working on some of our countrys most critical national security matters, including U.S.-Russia relations, the counter-ISIS campaign, and the U.S. relationship with NATO. She argues that the United States must make investments in its military, intelligence, and diplomatic power in order to maintain a unique and vital role in the world. Max Rose, a combat commander in Afghanistan now running in New Yorks 11th Congressional District (Staten Island and Brooklyn), calls for recognizing Russia as a hostile foreign power and holding the Kremlin accountable for its attempts to undermine the sovereignty and democratic values of other nations. Rose is still in the military reserves, and took two weeks off from his campaign in August to participate in small-unit drills. Joseph Kopser, running in the 21st District of Texas, is another anti-Russian firebrand, writing on his website, As a retired Army Ranger, I know first hand the importance of standing strong with your allies. Given Russias march toward a totalitarian state showing aggression around the region, as well as their extensive cyber and information warfare campaign directed at the U.S., England, and others, our Article 5 [NATO] commitment to our European allies and partners is more important than ever. He concludes, Since the mid-twentieth century, the United States has been a principal world leadera standard that should never be changed. Four national-security candidates add North Korea and Iran to China and Russia as specific targets of American military and diplomatic attack. Josh Welle, a former naval officer who was deployed to Afghanistan, now running in the Fourth Congressional District of New Jersey, writes, We have to stand together in the face of threats from countries like North Korea and Iran. The human rights violations and nuclear capabilities of these countries pose a direct threat to the stability of this world and therefore need to be met with strong military presence and a robust defense program to protect ourselves. Tom Malinowski, former assistant secretary of state for human rights, running in New Jerseys Seventh District, calls for maintaining economic sanctions on Russia until it stops its aggression in Ukraine and interference in our democracy, effusively endorses the state of Israel (whose government actually interferes in US elections more than any other), and calls for stepped up sanctions against North Korea. Mikie Sherill, a former Navy pilot and Russian policy officer, running in New Jerseys 11th District, writes, I have sat across the table from the Russians, and know that we need our government to take the threat they pose seriously. She adds to this a warning about threats posed by North Korea and Iran, the two most immediate targets of military-diplomatic blackmail by the Trump administration. She concludes, referring to North Koreas nuclear program, For that reason I support a robust military presence in the region and a comprehensive missile defense program to defend America, our allies, and our troops abroad. Dan McCready, an Iraq war unit commander who claims to have been born again when he was baptized in water from the Euphrates River, calls for war to be waged only with overwhelming firepower, not sporadically, with no strategy or end in sight, while our enemies like Iran, North Korea, Russia, and the terrorists outsmart and outlast us. He is running in North Carolinas Ninth Congressional District, adjacent to the huge military complex at Fort Bragg. One military-intelligence candidate cites immigration as a national-security issue, echoing the position of the Trump administration, which constantly peddles scare stories that terrorists are infiltrating the United States disguised as immigrants and refugees. That is Richard Ojeda, running in the Third Congressional District of West Virginia, who publicly boasts of having voted for Trump in 2016, in the same election in which he won a seat in the West Virginia state senate running as a Democrat. Ojeda writes on his web site, We must also ensure that terrorists do not reach American soil by abusing our immigration process. We must keep an up to date terror watch list but provide better vetting for those that go onto the watch list. A career Army Airborne officer, Ojeda voices the full-blown militarism of this social layer. If there is one thing I am confident in, it is the ability of our nations military, he declares. The best way to keep Americans safe is to let our military do their job without muddying up their responsibilities with our political agendas. He openly rejects control of the military by civilian policy-makers. War is not a social experiment and I refuse to let politics play a role in my decision making when it comes to keeping you and your family safe, he continues. I will not take my marching orders from anyone else concerning national security. Only one of the 30 candidates, Ken Harbaugh, a retired Air Force pilot running in the Seventh Congressional District of Ohio, centered on the industrial city of Canton, acknowledges being part of this larger group. He notes, In 2018, more vets are running for office than at any moment in my lifetime. Because of the growing inability of Washington to deal responsibly with the threats facing our nation, veterans from both sides of the aisle are stepping into the breach. Referring to the mounting prospect of war, he writes, Today, we face our gravest geopolitical challenge since 9/11. Our country remains at war in Afghanistan, we have troops engaged in North Africa, Iraq and Syria, and Russia continues to bully our allies. Meanwhile, North Korea has the ability to directly threaten the American mainland with nuclear missiles. He concludes, we need leaders with the moral authority to speak on these issues, leaders who have themselves been on the front lines of these challenges. These statements, taken cumulatively, present a picture of unbridled militarism and aggression as the program of the supposed opposition to the Trump administrations own saber-rattling and threats of fire and fury like the world has never seen. Perhaps even more remarkable is that the remaining 17 national-security candidates say nothing at all about foreign policy (in 11 cases) or limit themselves to anodyne observations about the necessity to provide adequate health care and other benefits to veterans (two cases), or vague generalities about the need to combine a strong military with diplomatic efforts (four cases). They give no specifics whatsoever. In other words, while these candidates tout their own records as part of the national-security apparatus as their principal credential for election to Congress, they decline to tell the voters what they would do if they were in charge of American foreign policy. Given that these 17 include intelligence agents (Abigail Spanberger and Gina Ortiz Jones), a National Security Council Iraq war planner (Andy Kim), and numerous other high-level State Department and military commanders, the silence can have only the most ominous interpretation. These CIA Democrats dont want to tell voters about their plans for foreign policy and military intervention because they know these measures are deeply unpopular. They aim to gain office as stealth candidates, unveiling their program of militarism and war only after they take their seats, when they may very well exercise decisive influence in the next Congress. A provocative US Navy freedom of navigation operation in the South China Sea on Sunday nearly resulted in an outright collision between American and Chinese warships. The incident highlights the escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing, with any misstep or accident in East Asias sea and airspace now threatening to trigger a full-scale war between the rival nuclear-armed powers. The USS Decatur, a guided missile destroyer, sailed through the South China Sea on a ten-hour patrol, deliberately sailing within 12 nautical miles of Chinese-claimed territory, including the Gaven and Johnson Reefs. These are part of the disputed Spratly Islands, different parts of which are occupied by the military forces of China, Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. USS Decatur A spokesman for the US Pacific Fleet, Nate Christensen, blamed China for the incident. He stated: At approximately 0830 local time on September 30, a PRC [Peoples Republic of China] Luyang destroyer approached USS Decatur in an unsafe and unprofessional manoeuvre in the vicinity of Gaven Reef in the South China Sea. The PRC destroyer conducted a series of increasingly aggressive manoeuvres accompanied by warnings for Decatur to depart the area. The PRC destroyer approached within 45 yards [41 metres] of Decaturs bow, after which Decatur manoeuvred to prevent a collision. Two rival warships approaching one another at a range of just 45 yards is enormously dangerous. According to the Diplomats Stephen Stashwick, when US warships manoeuvre together in close formation, they rarely have less than 1,000 yards between them. Even when two ships transfer fuel or munitions to one another while underway, the typical distance between them is 50-60 yards. Hawaii Pacific University professor and former US Navy captain Carl Shuster told CNN that the close encounter between the USS Decatur and the Chinese Luyang would have given each ships captain just seconds to react to any change in course. Precise rudder and engine speed corrections would have been required, he explained, with even a slight miscalculation risking collision. This was very dangerous, Shuster said. Captains get very nervous when ships get closer than 1,000 yards. Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian said the Chinese navy ship conducted an identification and warning process. He stated yesterday: The US has been repeatedly sending warships to the islands and the adjacent waters in the South China Sea, which has seriously threatened Chinas sovereignty and safety. The Chinese military will resolutely perform its defence duties and continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard our sovereignty and the regional peace and stability. The latest, and to date most dangerous, so-called US freedom of navigation operation in the South China Sea comes six months after the last such publicised operation, when three US warships sailed past the disputed Paracel Islands. The Trump administration ordered last Sundays operation amid heightened tensions between Washington and Beijing. Last month, the US imposed a 10 percent tariff on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods, with the rate to increase to 25 percent in January. The move marked an escalation of the Trump administrations economic warfare measures that threaten to fracture the world economy into rival trade and currency blocs, as occurred in the 1930s. As in that period, these tariffs and other measures are now inextricably connected to preparations for military conflict. US imperialism is steadily escalating geopolitical and military pressures against China. On September 20, Washington imposed sanctions on a Chinese military unit and its director for purchasing military equipment from a Russian weapons exporter. Beijing responded by cancelling trade talks and a scheduled visit to Washington by Vice-Premier Liu He. Chinese Admiral Shen Jinlong was also recalled from the US, ahead of a scheduled Pentagon meeting with his American counterpart, Chief of Naval Operations John Richardson. In addition, China refused a US Navy request for one of its warships to dock in Hong Kong. On September 24, the Trump administration announced a $330 million arms sale to Taiwan, regarded by China as a renegade province, including parts for fighter jets. The following day, the Pentagon ordered nuclear-capable B-52 strategic bombers to fly over both the South China Sea and the similarly contested East China Sea. Chinese officials responded by publicly denouncing provocative actions of US military aircraft. The New York Times reported last Sunday that Beijing had cancelled an important annual security meeting planned for mid-October with Defence Secretary Jim Mattis in Beijing, saying a senior Chinese military officer would not be available to meet him. The Times commented: The decision to withdraw from the high-level encounter, known as the diplomatic and security dialogue, was the latest sign of bad blood between China and the United States, and capped a week of tit-for-tat actions by both nations as they settled into a newly chilly relationship. The day after this report, the Trump administration appeared to attempt to claim that it, rather than Beijing, was responsible for the cancellation. An anonymous defence official told CNBC that the Pentagon had ordered Mattiss scheduled trip to China to be called off. What is unfolding emerges out of the highly reckless course unveiled last December by President Donald Trump in his administrations National Security Strategy, amplified in January by Mattis with the release of the new National Defence Strategy. These documents outlined US imperialisms active preparations for military confrontation of China and Russia in order to reassert US global hegemony. Great power competitionnot terrorismis now the primary focus of US national security, Mattis declared, before threatening: If you challenge us, it will be your longest and worst day. This weeks near-collision between the USS Decatur and the Chinese Luyang demonstrates that a catastrophic war between American imperialism and its rivals is not some distant possibility. The working class in every country now confronts the danger of a global nuclear conflict as a direct and immediate threat. A new report issued by the office of the New York City comptroller, Scott Stringer, documents the staggering decline in the availability of affordable housing in the United States largest city. Based on data from the US Census Bureaus 2017 Housing and Vacancy Survey, the report found that, between 2005 and 2017, close to half a million (425,492) housing units with rents of $900 per month or less, which is considered affordable in New York City, were lost. In 2005, nearly three quarters of rental apartments went for $900 in 2017 dollars. Over the same dozen-year period, the number of high-rent units, above $2,700 per month, rose by more than 111,000, a fourfold increase. Part of this transfer of housing availability from the working class to the wealthy elite was due to the shift of 88,518 units out of the rent stabilization program, in accordance with its provisions, allowing landlords to raise rents to market rates. Every year, thousands more units fall out of the program. It is estimated that, over the past two decades, between 100,000 and 300,000 units have been deregulated while even those remaining in the program are allowed annual rent increases. These figures, along with the persistently high number of homeless people in the citymore than 60,000 in shelters each night, more than a third of them children, and thousands more on the streetsdemonstrate the utter failure of two-term, supposedly progressive Democratic Mayor Bill de Blasio to fulfill his campaign slogan of addressing the citys gaping economic divide, the Tale of Two Cities as he framed it. The shelter population has increased by nearly 10,000 during de Blasios tenure. De Blasio, in office since 2014, had initially pledged to create or preserve 200,000 affordable housing units within 10 years. Last November, he raised the goal to 300,000 by 2026, four years after the end of his second term. Even if accomplished, this would represent a shortfall of over 100,000 compared with the loss documented in the comptrollers report. And that does not factor in the citys population growth. From 1999 to 2014, New Yorks population grew by about 14 percent, while the housing stock increased by only 9 percent. By his own account, the mayor has so far claimed to have achieved a total of only 34,500 units built and 77,651 preserved during his roughly four and a half years in office, an average of about 25,000 per year. Based on the data in the Stringer report, an average of more than 35,000 affordable units were lost each year during the period of the study. Clearly, de Blasios efforts are grossly inadequate given the actual net loss of affordable housing. De Blasio and his Republican predecessor, billionaire Michael Bloomberg, have both relied on a variety of schemes, mandatory inclusionary housing and 421-a tax abatement, for example, that are supposed to incentivize wealthy developers to include a percentage of affordable housing units in their projects. The results, including inferior poor door housing in which low-income tenants are excluded from the amenities provided for the wealthier occupants of the same building, have been meager, at best, for the working class, but highly lucrative for the developers. De Blasios mandatory inclusionary housing program, which relaxes zoning requirements allowing developers to build larger projects, and provides other incentives, has been severely criticized for promoting gentrification of working-class neighborhoods. The program is designed to maintain profitability for the developers by skewing the quotas of units for different income levels. Given the citys extreme income disparities, by employing city-wide income statistics in its quota calculations to determine what percentage of the total number of units will be allocated to each income bracket, the poorest segments of the population are most severely impacted. Significant numbers of residents are thereby forced out of their neighborhoods, exacerbating the housing and homelessness crisis even more. Furthermore, the program has a sunset provision, meaning that the allocation of lower-income units will expire, allowing rents to be raised to market rates. The guiding principle of this and all such programs is the maximization of profit for the developers and major landlords. Construction of luxury housing catering to the citys wealthy elite brings a much higher return than building to meet the needs of the working class. Hence the inverse trends in the availability of affordable versus market-rate housing revealed in the Stringer report. The immense and growing income gap between the working class and the citys elite is reflected in the cost of housing for the working poor. According to Stringer, Thirty percent of people in homeless shelters have jobs but the rent is too high. Half the citys low-income renters, those earning less than $28,000 a year for a family of three, more than 600,000 households, pay more than 50 percent of their income for housing, qualifying them as extremely rent burdened. The citys public housing system, the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), home to 400,000 low- and moderate-income tenants, was once considered a success in providing affordable working-class housing. It is now in a deplorable state due to decades of budget cutting and neglect. Tens of billions of dollars are needed for repairs and upgrades, only a fraction of which the city and state have so far pledged. The pressure on housing costs is not only hitting renters. Home foreclosures in New York City reached an eight-year high in 2017. There was a 79 percent year-on-year increase in the third quarter of 2017 alone. And the trend continues. The first quarter of 2018 saw a 31 percent increase in foreclosures over the same period last year. Meanwhile, the citys wealthy are doing quite well. About 70 billionaires and 389,000 millionaires live in New York City, the home of Wall Street. A new report by the New York State comptroller indicates that the average Wall Street salary rose by 13 percent in 2017 to $422,500, the highest compensation since 2008. By contrast, the citys median household income is only in the range of $50,000 to $60,000. In 2017, the median income rose by only 1.8 percent. A major effort is needed to address the affordable housing crisis. The resources exist to support a massive program of repair, renovation, and new construction to meet the housing needs of the citys working population. This wealth is, however, held by a tiny elite who have no intention of employing it for the general good. Only a workers government implementing a socialist program of expropriation of this wealth can solve the housing crisis in New York and around the world. The Socialist Equality Party calls for the formation of workplace and neighborhood committees to link individual struggles on a national and international basis. The author also recommends: New Census Bureau report details poor conditions in New Yorks Public Housing [28 September 2018] Concentration of poverty in New York City neighborhoods on the rise [27 June 2017] New York City affordable housing programs designed to benefit developers [22 March 2016] On Tuesday, the United States government issued its most direct and public threat of a military strike against Russia since the height of the Cold War. The US ambassador to NATO, Kay Bailey Hutchison, told a press conference at NATO headquarters in Brussels that if Russia failed to stop its development of a new cruise missile that Washington claims is in violation of the 1987 Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF), the Pentagon was prepared to take out the missile. Asked by a reporter what the US intended to do about the new class of Russian missiles, Hutchison replied, The counter-measures would be to take out the missiles that are in development by Russia in violation of the treaty. She continued: Getting them to withdraw would be our choice, of course. But I think the question was what would you do if this continues to a point where we know that they are capable of delivering. And at that point we would then be looking at a capability to take out a missile that could hit any of our countries in Europe and hit America in Alaska. To emphasize her threat, the US ambassador declared that Russia had been put on notice. This is the same kind of language used by Washington to threaten military action against Syria and Iran. The former Texas Republican senator, who became the US ambassador to NATO last year, was speaking of the cruise missile referred to by the Russian military as the Novator 9M729. Moscow has repeatedly insisted that the missile does not violate the restrictions imposed under the INF, which banned ground-launched medium-range missiles capable of striking targets at distances between 500 and 5,500 kilometers (310-3,100 miles). Hutchisons remarks, delivered on the eve of a NATO defense ministers meeting, ratcheted up already dangerous tensions with Russia and ignited fears throughout Europe and internationally. If she is saying that if the diplomatic route doesnt work we will destroy the missiles, thats obviously dangerous and risks triggering a war that could go nuclear, Daryl Kimball, the head of the Arms Control Association, said. I cannot recall anything like this in the post-cold war period. Moscow issued an angry response to Hutchinsons reckless threat. The impression is that people making such claims are unaware of the degree of their responsibility and the danger of aggressive rhetoric, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters. Who authorized this woman to make such allegations? The American people? Do ordinary Americans know that they are paying out of their pockets for so-called diplomats who behave so aggressively and destructively? More to the point, do the American people even know that their government is threatening to launch a preemptive war against nuclear-armed Russia, raising the potential for the extinction of life on earth? A US news media fixated on the dribble of allegations of teenage transgressions by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh has all but ignored the war threat. While Washington has repeatedly charged Russia with violating the INF treaty signed in 1987 by the US and the Soviet Union, it has yet to provide any evidence to support its allegations. The unsubstantiated character of the US charges was underscored in a statement by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg to reporters on Tuesday. All allies agree that the most plausible assessment would be that Russia is in violation of the treaty, he said. It is therefore urgent that Russia addresses these concerns in a substantial and transparent manner. For its part, Moscow has charged the US with violating the treaty with its deployment of the Aegis Ashore missile defense installations in Romania and preparations for a similar deployment in Poland. While the Pentagon insists that the installations are anti-missile systems, the Russian military has charged that they can be repurposed to launch land-based Tomahawk cruise missilesbanned under the treatyagainst Russian territory. The threatening tone adopted by Hutchison was echoed by US Defense Secretary Gen. James Mattis, who spoke to reporters in Paris on his way to the NATO meeting. Referring to a potential US action in relation to the allegations of Russian violations of the INF treaty, he stated: I cannot forecast where it will go, it is a decision for the president, but I can tell you that both on Capitol Hill and in the State Department there is a lot of concern about this situation, and Ill return with the advice of our allies and engage in that discussion to determine the way ahead. The reference to concern on Capitol Hill includes the vociferous campaign waged by the Democratic Party to vilify Russia and its president, Vladimir Putin, and to indict Trump for collusion and being too soft on Moscow. This posture was spelled out last month by Senator Robert Menendez, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, at a hearing on US-Russia arms treaties. He called for policies to confront Russia for its multiple and ongoing transgressions, including military aggression, malign influence and repressive policies. He added: Given the reality of Russias current nuclear capacity, we must collectively use every diplomatic tool in our arsenaleconomic, political and militaryto achieve our goals. Leading Democrats will no doubt welcome Hutchisons threat of a preemptive strike against Russia; it is the logical conclusion of their own politics. Spurred on by NATOs relentless military buildup on Russias borders, Washingtons continued pursuit of regime-change and threats of military strikes against the Russian-backed government of Bashar al-Assad in Syria, and the steady escalation of punishing sanctions against Russia and its economy, the threat of war between the worlds two largest nuclear powers has never been greater. Underlying this drive to war is not merely the recklessness and arrogance of Trump and his aides, but the global crisis of the capitalist system, which finds its sharpest expression in the long-term economic decline of the United States. Dominant sections within the US ruling class support the use of Washingtons military might to offset this decline, including through confrontation with both Russia and China over the domination of the Middle East and the entire Eurasian land mass. That the danger of world war is discussed neither in the media nor by the two major capitalist political parties as they prepare for the midterm elections in the US is no accident. The ruling class justifiably fears that if masses of working people were made aware that they and their families are threatened with nuclear incineration, an already tense social situation, marked by rising anger over social inequality and falling living standards, would explode into open revolt. With the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement, now called the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), announced on Monday, the Trump administration has put in place the conditions for an intensification of its trade war against China. Tariffs have already been imposed on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods, with Trump threatening imposts on a further $267 billion. When the measures against China were first mooted there was broad agreement in US political circles for action against Beijing over its so-called market distorting policies, i.e., state subsidies for major industries, and its acquisition of technology either through alleged forced transfers by companies operating in China or through theft. However, there was criticism that in imposing tariffs and issuing threats against US strategic allies, including Japan, the European Union and Canada, the Trump administration was weakening its position in dealing with its key adversary. Over the past two months, the trade landscape has changed. In July, Trump and Jean-Claude Juncker, the president of the European Commission, reached an agreement for the US and the European Union to enter negotiations on a reduction of tariffs and for joint action against China over its trade practices. The US extracted the agreement under threat of imposing auto tariffs of up to 25 percent. As Trump emphasised at his press conference on Monday, If we dont make a deal with the European Union, we will put a tariff on cars. The agreement with Juncker was followed by an agreement last month with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, again under the threat of auto tariffs, that Japan and the US would start negotiations on a bilateral trade deal, something Abe had up to then rejected, rightly fearing that in such negotiations, rather than multilateral talks, Japan would be in a weakened position. The threat of auto tariffs was again the key issue in securing agreement from Canada after several months in which talks had been stalled. Throughout his press conference, Trump extolled the virtues of this weapon of trade war, claiming that countries that had not wanted to enter discussions were now calling for talks. He said that because of the power of tariffs and the power we have with tariffs, we, in many cases, wont have to use them. Thats how powerful they are, thats how good they are. Trump set out his version of economic history to buttress his position. In 1913, he said, the US ended the use of tariffs and went to a different system in 1918. This was followed by the Great Depression and then in the 1930s they said wed better start charging tariffs. We need some money to come into our country again. He did not elaborate further. But the favourable citing of those measures in support of his own is extremely significant, because for the past seven decades one of the central planks of international trade policy has been the insistence that tariff wars must be avoided because they played such a central role in deepening the Depression and creating the conditions for the Second World War. Trump brushed this history aside, insisting that without his tariffs there would not have been a deal, dismissing as babies those out there that talk about tariffs. In his remarks he emphasised a central theme of some of his closest economic advisers in the White House: that the lowering of trade deficits and the breaking up of global supply chains and return of key manufacturing industries to the US are essential for national security. The agreement would transform America into a manufacturing powerhouse and allow us to reclaim a supply chain that has been off-shored to the world because of unfair trade issues, he said. It was a theme to which he returned on several occasions, underscoring the military component. A pillar of national security is economic security and trade, he said, adding that the US had to have a strong manufacturing base and manufacturing sector. He continued, We need a thriving economy and those are all essential ingredients to national security Were building our military like never before. Itll be stronger than ever before. And the rockets, jets and guided missiles that are being made are all being made in the United States. That the focus of the USMCA deal is to enable the US to better prosecute its economic war against China was emphasised in a number of reports on the agreement. According to the Wall Street Journal, White House officials have concluded that striking a deal with Canada and Mexico gives the administration more ammunition in the high stakes battle with China on economic issues and national security. By removing the threat of a North American trade war it will make the continent more attractive for investment. The Journal wrote: When combined with tariffs against China, which boost the cost of production there, foreign companies will start moving out of China, the administration calculates. That would weaken Chinas ability to produce next-generation technology and put additional pressure on Beijing to make trade concessions sought by the US. According to Stephen Bannon, the extreme right-wing economic nationalist and former White House strategist, the central objective of the Trump administration has always been to pull investment out of China and reshape global supply chains, but this had been diverted by the conflict with US allies over steel and aluminium tariffs. NAFTA was the key to pick the lock on the global supply chain, he told the newspaper. Commenting on the agreement, National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow told reporters: Were sending China a message. Theyre not going to break up the allies. Bloomberg also reported the agreement as directed against China, saying that Trump looks to be preparing for a potentially protracted economic war with China by clearing the decks of disputes with Americas trading competitors. It cited the managing director of an investment fund who noted that for several months the US had a multi-pronged attack on its trading partners, but now it could zero in on China. The Financial Times commented that a benefit of the agreement for the Trump administration is that it provides a truce on trade with Americas top allies, allowing it to focus on its escalating confrontation with China. And confrontation is what the Trump administration has in store as it seeks to inflict economic pain on China in order to bring it to its knees and force it to bow to US demands. Trump ruled out discussions with the Chinese leadership, saying, [I]ts too early to talk. Cant talk now, because theyre not ready, because theyve been ripping us for so many years. China has offered a series of concessions, including more purchases of US exports and even the participation by foreign companies in its industrial and technological development under its Made in China 2025 plan. But these moves are not regarded as adequate. Total subservience is being demanded. While preparing to escalate economic conflict, the US has stepped up pressure in other areas, sailing a warship over the weekend near two Chinese outposts in the Spratly Island chain claimed by Beijing and cancelling scheduled security talks between the US Secretary of Defence and his Chinese counterpart. The significance of China is also underscored in a key section of the USMCA, which stipulates that if any of the parties concludes a trade deal with a non-market economythat is, Chinathe others can withdraw from it. Throughout his press conference Trump hailed his trade war measures as bringing a new era of prosperity for American workers, with the return of high-paying jobs. This is a lie. The notion that America or any other capitalist economy can prosper on the basis of economic nationalist measures is, as history has demonstrated, a reactionary utopia. In the ten years since the global financial crisis of 2008, the American economy has been restructured through a series of measures ensuring permanent low wages and the development of new forms of ever more intense exploitation, such as those employed by Amazon. At the same time, the financial system has become an institutionalised mechanism for siphoning the wealth created by the working class into the upper stratum of capitalist oligarchs. At their root, the trade war launched by Trump, and the military measures that will inexorably flow from it, are a desperate attempt to overcome the protracted economic decline of the US from its once dominant position. However the nationalist attempt to reverse the economic tides of history, which have seen the integration of the labour of billions of workers worldwide, can lead only to economic crises and a new world war. An enormous problem now confronts mankind: How to bring the economic forces created by the labour of the global working class under its conscious control, how to overcome the contradiction between the development of global production and the division of the world into rival nation-states and great powers. As Marx explained, no problem ever arises without at the same time the material conditions for its resolution also arising. The solution lies in the unification of the struggles of the working class in the US and around the world on the basis of an international socialist program. 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Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe Darksiders 3 'Keepers of the Void' DLC Now Available Rapper Cardi B charged in connection with assault in New York By Gina Cherelus NEW YORK (Reuters) - Rapper Cardi B surrendered to New York City police on Monday and was charged with assault and reckless endangerment after a complaint claimed she was involved in a fight at a strip club in August. Cardi B, born Belcalis Almanzar, was allegedly involved in an incident at the Angels NYC strip club in the borough of Queens, according to police spokesman Martin Brown, who said the investigation was continuing. Jeff Kern, a representative for the 25-year-old rapper, said she was not arrested and received a court summons charging "misdemeanours only." "We're aware of no evidence that she caused anybody any harm at the club that night," Kern told reporters on Monday. "We expect that the matter is going to be resolved expeditiously." The New York Post reported that police were investigating Cardi B, who was nominated for two Grammy Awards this year, in connection with an attack on two bartenders at the club because of allegations they had sex with Cardi B's husband, Offset of the Migos rap group. The bartenders claimed someone from Cardi B's entourage threw bottles and chairs at them, causing injuries, the newspaper reported. They have sued the rapper for damages. The women's attorney, Joseph Tacopina, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Cardi B was seen entering a police precinct shortly after 9:30 a.m. (1330 GMT) on Monday, according to local media. Her bodyguards shielded her with black umbrellas. Cardi B and fellow rapper Nicki Minaj made headlines in September after the two got into a fight that was captured on video and shared on social media during a New York Fashion Week party, continuing an ongoing feud. (Reporting by Gina Cherelus; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Cynthia Osterman) When the New York Times editors hit publish on yesterdays exhaustive report detailing how Fred Trump fraudulently funneled millions to his son President Donald J. Trump Showtimes cameras were rolling. A holdover from Liz Garbus The Fourth Estate a four part series documenting the New York Times covering President Trumps first year in office that aired this spring director Jenny Carchman helmed a crew that continued to follow the reporters working on this particular story about Trumps tax avoidance, which took nearly two years to report. The Times story by Russ Buettner, Susanne Craig and David Barstow calls into question President Trumps image as a self-made billionaire, revealing that he received the equivalent today of $413 million from his father. Worse yet for the President, the Times reported that the money transfers were dubious tax schemes that sometimes involved outright fraud. The film about the process, titled The Family Business: Trump and Taxes, will differ from The Fourth Estate in several ways. Whereas the Garbus project was a look at the venerable institution at a moment of great change President Trumps victory and the pressure on newspapers in the digital age the short documentary will be more procedural, as it follows a small group of reporters working on one big story. Sources tell IndieWire that the premium cable network had expedited post-production this summer, in anticipation of the possibility that the film could be a potential awards contender for Best Short Documentary. The project, which will air this Sunday night on Showtime, has essentially been done for weeks, as the filmmakers waited for the Times to publish and to add scenes of the publication to the end of the documentary. Carchman was filming on Tuesday, less than a week before the scheduled airdate. The Times story published weeks later than Showtime anticipated partially a product of busy news cycles dominated by Hurricane Florence and Judge Brett Kavanaughs confirmation hearings (and the subsequent sexual assault allegations). The network had expressed concern that there would not be a large enough window to qualify the film during awards season. Short films must win a prize at major festival, or have a week long theatrical release in Los Angeles (usually requiring renting out, or four-walling a theater) during 2018 to be eligible for the 2019 Academy Awards in February. Story continues Now, Showtime has confirmed to IndieWire the short will not compete for Oscars. Choosing to air the documentary this weekend essentially nullifying the initial Oscar strategy, since Academy rules stipulate that a documentary short subject must complete a seven-day commercial run in a theater in Los Angeles or New York during the eligibility period, and prior to any broadcast. The President has denied the allegations in the Times story. The Presidents lawyer Charles Harder, who helped bring down Gawker through Hulk Hogans lawsuit, called the allegations 100% false and highly defamatory. Bloomberg reported yesterday that the New York State Tax Department was looking into the Times reporting to explore if an investigation is necessary. Related stories Kanye West Goes on a Pro-Trump Rant After 'SNL' Goes Off the Air, Gets Booed -- Watch 'Kidding': The Secret Behind a One-Take 'Michel Gondry' Scene on Jim Carrey's Showtime Series 'Twin Peaks' Shut Out at the Emmys, as David Lynch Loses Directing and Writing Races A look at the US military's close calls with China, Russia in the air and at sea originally appeared on abcnews.go.com When a Chinese warship sailed 135 feet from the bow of the U.S. Navy destroyer USS Decatur on Sunday -- a distance so close the American ship's commander had to make last-second maneuvers to avoid a collision -- it was just the latest in a series of close calls between the U.S. military and its adversaries. During Sunday's close encounter a Chinese warship initially shadowed the USS Decatur as it made its way through international waters in the Spratly Islands. PHOTO: US Navy photo obtained by gcaptain.com of the USS Decatur's close encounter with a Chinese warship on September 30, 2018. (Photos obtained by gCaptain) Initially trailing alongside the American destroyer at a distance of 500 yards the Chinese destroyer quickly moved into position ahead of the USS Decatur's bow. PHOTO: US Navy photo obtained by gcaptain.com of the USS Decatur's close encounter with a Chinese warship on September 30, 2018. (Photos obtained by gCaptain) Unreleased U.S. Navy aerial photos obtained by the website gcaptain.com show just how close the two ships were in position with each other, possibly even closer than the 135 feet (45 yards) distance released by the U.S. Navy. A U.S. official confirmed to ABC News that the photos posted on the website were U.S. Navy photos of the incident. The U.S. Navy characterized the Chinese ship's actions in the South China Sea as "unsafe and unprofessional" -- the term typically used by the U.S. military to describe risky close calls experienced by its ships and aircraft in international waters and airspace. With American military ships and planes conducting regular operations worldwide, there is always a chance for close encounters with military ships particularly from China and Russia. How often do those types of unsafe interactions occur? Not often, but when they do they are attention-getters. If the incidents are deemed dangerous enough, the U.S. will file a formal complaint with China or Russia, but in the end, all that usually happens is that the U.S. military issues statements reaffirming its right to sail or fly through international waters and airspace. The encounters with Russia and China have been occurring with greater frequency in recent years, but for different reasons. Story continues U.S. officials believe Russia's close encounters with the U.S. military are prompted by Russia's effort to reassert itself militarily around its borders. The encounters with China are a reflection of that nation's use of its military to back up its aggressive territorial claims in the South China Sea. In recent years, the closest encounters have been in the Baltic Sea and the Black Sea involving Russian military aircraft buzzing American ships and flying too close to American planes. (MORE: Russian fighter flies 5 feet from US plane over Black Sea: Navy) On January 29, the U.S. says a Russian SU-27 fighter jet came within five feet of a Navy EP-3 Aries surveillance plane flying in international airspace above the Black Sea. That distance might seem super close, but the Navy labeled the encounter "unsafe" because unprovoked, the Russian fighter crossed directly through the EP-3s flight path, causing the surveillance aircraft to fly through the Russian plane's jet wash. The Russian Defense Ministry denied that the Russian fighter had maintained a safe distance to identify the American plane that it said was approaching Russian airspace. (MORE: US Navy plane has unsafe encounter with Russian fighter over Black Sea) The encounter was similar to a Russian intercept over the Black Sea in late November when a Russian SU-30 fighter jet used its afterburners to fly in front of a Navy P-8 Poseidon surveillance plane, causing the American aircraft to roll severely through the turbulence. But perhaps the riskiest flight encounters with Russian aircraft occurred in April 2016 in the Baltic Sea both in the air and water. On April 11 and 12, the destroyer USS Donald Cook was buzzed more than 30 times by a pair of Su-27 fighters that on one occasion flew as close as 30 feet from the ship. The Pentagon later released video and still images to demonstrate how risky the Russian aircraft maneuvers had been. Later that month on two separate occasions, Russian SU-27 fighter pilots carried out barrel rolls over U.S. Air Force RC-135 reconnaissance planes, one of them coming within 25 feet of the American plane. Meanwhile, the majority of the unsafe interactions with China typically occur in the South China Sea where it has made territorial claims in several island chains. Typically, the U.S. Navy carries out freedom of navigation operation (FONOP) transits through international waters surrounding the islands claimed by China in the Spratly Islands and Paracel Islands. As occurred with the USS Decatur this weekend, oftentimes those transits are shadowed by Chinese warships. Typically, the Chinese warship will make constant bridge-to-bridge radio communications with the American vessel demanding that it exit what they label Chinese territorial waters. Meanwhile, the commanders of the American ship will respond that they are legally transiting through international waters. While the ships will often maintain a safe distance there have been two previous encounters where the Chinese Navy ships almost caused a collision. In December 2013 the U.S. Navy cruiser USS Cowpens narrowly avoided a collision with a Chinese PLA Navy warship that the U.S. said had been harassing it. PHOTO: A crewmember on a Chinese trawler uses a grapple hook in an apparent attempt to snag the towed acoustic array of the military Sealift Command ocean surveillance ship USNS Impeccable. (U.S. Navy) The same occurred in March 2009 when five Chinese vessels harassed the USNS Impeccable as it sailed in the South China Sea, one of the Chinese ships came as close as 25 feet forcing the American crew to use fire hoses to prevent the ships from getting any closer. PHOTO: Two Chinese trawlers stop directly in front of the military Sealift Command ocean surveillance ship forcing the ship to conduct an emergency 'all stop' in order to avoid collision. (U.S. Navy) In the end, the American ship came to a full stop to avoid colliding into two Chinese vessels that had placed themselves in its path. Chinese harassment is not limited to warships, as American planes flying in international airspace through the South China Sea also face constant Chinese radio messages demanding that they leave what they say is Chinese airspace. (MORE: Chinese fighter flew inverted above US Air Force jet over Yellow Sea) And there are barrel roll flights, too. In May 2017 a Chinese SU-30 fighter aircraft executed a barrel roll above a U.S. Air Force C-135 reconnaissance plane. Trump's campaign swing checks off Mississippi, a key test of support for Kavanaugh in the deep South originally appeared on abcnews.go.com President Donald Trump's five-state campaign blitz came to the deep south Tuesday leaving behind the tumult in Washington over Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaughs confirmation process to help salvage the Republican majority in Congress in the favorable Magnolia state. The appointment of Kavanaugh was supposed to galvanize conservatives at the polls, but amid allegations of sexual misconduct, and a White House-approved "limited" FBI investigation into those accusations, the once-political catalyst for the GOP base is now seen as a potential political cost. PHOTO: Supreme Court Justice nominee, Judge Brett Kavanaugh, listens during his confirmation hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington, Sept. 6, 2018. (Melina Mara/The Washington Post via Getty Images) But on the trail in Mississippi, Trump's embattled Supreme Court nominee found a sympathetic audience. "We want Kavanaugh! We want Kavanaugh!" the crowd chanted in response to the president Tuesday night, as Trump accused Democrats of seeking to destroy his nominee "since the very first second he was announced because they know Judge Kavanaugh will follow the Constitution as written." The president's principal mission in Mississippi was to shore up support for his anointed pick, GOP Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith. A stop in a ruby red state, which Trump won by nearly 20 points in 2016 and which has voted for a Republican for president since 1972 except in 1976, for Jimmy Carter might seem to defy conventional political wisdom five weeks out from the midterm elections. But this year, the Trump-endorsed candidate is contending with a tough challenge from her left by Mississippi's first African American U.S. Representative since the Reconstruction era, Mike Espy, and from her right by insurgent Chris McDaniel. (MORE: White House eases limits on FBI's investigation of Brett Kavanaugh) And looming over this pivotal contest is the debate over Kavanaugh. "I continue to believe Judge Kavanaugh will be confirmed despite an agreement to again look at accusations that have not been proved with verifiable evidence," Hyde-Smith, who was appointed to the seat after Republican Sen. Thad Cochran retired in April due to health concerns and triggered a special election, said in a statement to ABC News on Monday. "A seven-day delay, after an already unprecedented vetting and hearing process, wont change those facts. It's time for Senators to stand up and confirm Judge Kavanaugh." Story continues During brief remarks onstage with the president Tuesday night, Hyde-Smith made clear that she stands with the president and his nominee, expressing her support for his confirmation and imploring the audience to pray for Kavanaugh's family. PHOTO: Appointed Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith listens to cattle farmer Charlie Hull, left, as he tells a story during a campaign stop in Greenwood, Miss., Sept. 7, 2018. (Rogelio V. Solis/AP, FILE) But even so, there were signs at the rally that not all Republican voters in Mississippi are heeding the president's calls to vote for Hyde-Smith. Some in the audience wore shirts for McDaniel, and there were even a few audible boos in the audience when Hyde-Smith was called out. McDaniel, for his part, has relentlessly cornered his Republican opponent on Kavanaugh, insisting Hyde-Smith fight "tooth and nail" to confirm the judge, and challenging her loyalty to Trump in the hopes of out-Trumping her. (MORE: Kavanaugh allegations put GOP candidates in an untenable bind as midterms approach) "Cindy Hyde-Smith's silence in the face of adversity to confirm Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the U.S. Supreme Court is unacceptable," McDaniel said in a statement last week. "Judge Kavanaugh should be confirmed in the U.S. Senate immediately, and every single Republican senator, including Cindy Hyde-Smith, should be fighting tooth and nail to make sure he is confirmed." Despite failing to score the president's endorsement, McDaniel has taken some unconventional steps to earn the support of his base, including inviting supporters to show up to the previously scheduled Trump rally for Hyde-Smith. It was canceled due to Hurricane Florence. PHOTO: Senate candidate Chris McDaniel answers a question at a meet and greet dinner in Taylorsville, Miss., Sept. 6, 2018. (Rogelio V. Solis/AP, FILE) "Show the President that Trump Country is McDaniel Country," an email to supporters read. In an apparent show of loyalty to Trump, McDaniel told American Family Radio in September of Ford's claims, "These allegations, 99 percent of the time, are just absolutely fabricated." A pivotal open seat in 2018 The three-way race pits Hyde-Smith against Espy, and McDaniel, who harbors the endorsement of political strategist and former Trump aide Steve Bannon. After nearly defeating Cochran in 2014 in a primary challenge, McDaniel is running again, boasting name recognition across the state and riding anti-establishment fervor to contest Hyde-Smith's establishment hold on the seat. The former conservative talk show host aims to incite support among Trump's conservative base to propel his outsider candidacy. He initially announced a bid against incumbent Sen. Roger Wicker, whom Trump endorsed this cycle, but instead jumped into the special election in late March. PHOTO: Senate candidate Mike Espy talks to reporters at a news conference in Jackson, Miss., July 27, 2018. (Rogelio V. Solis/AP, FILE) McDaniel, along with Espy, a former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture under President Bill Clinton who was recently endorsed by former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, is benefiting from the state's "jungle primary" format where candidates battle in an open election regardless of party affiliation. But marring McDaniel's chances is a campaign fraught with controversy of his own making. Most recently, when asked how he would speak to the states African-American population on MSNBCs Morning Joe, the state senator responded, "After 100 years of begging for federal government scraps, where are you today?" The audience booed. The winner in November, who will serve out the remainder of Cochran's term, must secure the majority of the votes. Complicating matters for Hyde-Smith, the presumptive frontrunner, is the fact that no party labels will be the ballot. (MORE: Ultra-conservative to enter Miss. Senate race against Trump-backed incumbent) Another possible wrinkle for the former state senator is that she was also a former Democrat, switching to the Republican party in 2010. Her past affiliation has been a preferred talking point for McDaniel, who recently said: "I understand that as a lifelong Democrat who voted for Hillary Clinton, it might be difficult for Cindy Hyde-Smith to advocate vocally for one of President Trump's Supreme Court nominees, but Mississippians are counting on her to stand and fight for them in the U.S. Senate." But Hyde-Smith has ties to the White House, and the Trump family. The president's daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, even endorsed the Republican candidate in a video message. PHOTO: Steve Bannon speaks before introducing Republican Senatorial candidate Roy Moore during a campaign event at Oak Hollow Farm, Dec. 5, 2017, in Fairhope, Ala. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images, FILE) One other palpable concern for both Republican candidates is the outcome of neighboring Alabama's most recent special election last year. A Republican-held Senate seat flipped from red to blue, after now-Sen. Doug Jones upset the Bannon-and-Trump-backed GOP candidate, Roy Moore. Now, Bannon's support for McDaniel could be seen as a drawback. "By announcing early, we are asking Mississippi Republicans to unite around my candidacy and avoid another contentious contest among GOP members that would only improve the Democrats' chances of winning the open seat," McDaniel said in a March statement announcing his candidacy, alluding to the possibility of a "blue wave" reaching into Mississippi. FiveThirtyEight gives Democrats a 2 in 7 chance of winning the Senate in November, as of Monday, and with the fate of Congress on the ticket this cycle Democrats view the race as an opportunity to pick up a seat in a deep red state. (MORE: FiveThirtyEight: Forecasting the race for the Senate) If none of the candidates are able to win 50 percent of the vote, Mississippians will return to the polls again three weeks later, deciding between the top two. And if the Senate ends up tied on Election Day, this special election could be the deciding factor over which party ultimately controls the upper chamber. Maputo (AFP) - The trial of 189 suspected Islamist militants began in Mozambique on Wednesday, with the accused allegedly involved in attacks against police and civilians in the northern province of Cabo Delgado. The trial opened in a tent serving as an improvised courthouse inside a jail in Pemba, the provincial capital, with Mozambicans, Tanzanians, Congolese, Somalis and Burundians among the defendants, of whom 42 are women. Over the last year, more than 50 people have been killed in gun, grenade and knife assaults in the growing jihadist insurgency, with the militants reportedly seeking to impose Sharia law in the Muslim-majority province. On the first day of the trial, prosecutors read indictments against the accused. They are charged with crimes including homicide, use of prohibited weapons, crimes against state security and public disorder. According to the chargesheet, in October last year the defendants carried out a coordinated attack against police near the town of Mocimboa da Praia, and later on the district police command. Two police officers were killed and five others seriously injured. The suspects are also accused of attacking police positions in November and December. A court spokesman told AFP that the case had been adjourned until next week, with the trail set to last until the start of next year. Last week, President Filipe Nyusi told a rally in Cabo Delgado that he directed the police not to kill the insurgents as they were youths exploited by foreign groups determined to fuel instability in Mozambique. The trial is the first since the attacks began a year ago. As the insurgency has spread through the province, several hundred Muslims have been arrested and several mosques forced to close. In the latest major violence, 12 villagers were killed and 14 wounded two weeks ago. An anti-terrorism law was passed in April allowing for heavier sentences. Locals and authorities call the assailants Al-Shabaab, although the group has no known link to the Somali Islamists of that name, nor has it issued any claim of responsibility or demands. The attacks have shaken plans to exploit vast natural gas discovered off the shores of Cabo Delgado, which borders on Tanzania to the north. Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh is losing support from former classmates who originally vouched for him. (Photo: POOL New / Reuters) WASHINGTON Two former law school classmates of Brett Kavanaughs who previously vouched for him wrote to the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday to say they are withdrawing their support for him because of the nature of his recent testimony. Under the current circumstances, we fear that partisanship has injected itself into Judge Kavanaughs candidacy, Michael J. Proctor and Mark Osler say in a letter to Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), the committees chairman and ranking member, respectively. That, and the lack of judicial temperament displayed on September 27 hearing, cause us to withdraw our support. Proctor and Osler were among 23 classmates of Kavanaughs at Yale Law School who signed a letter in August pledging their support for his confirmation. At the time, they cited his exemplary judicial temperament as a reason for their support. But after watching Kavanaughs explosive behavior in his confirmation hearing as he addressed the sexual assault allegation against him by Christine Blasey Ford, the two former classmates say they cant stand by him in his Supreme Court bid. The reason for our withdrawal is not the truth or falsity of Dr. Fords allegations, which are still being investigated, but rather was the nature of Judge Kavanaughs testimony, they write. In our view that testimony was partisan, and not judicious, and inconsistent with what we expect from a Justice of the Supreme Court, particularly when dealing with a co-equal branch of government. Heres a copy of their letter: Kavanaugh classmates withdraw support by jen_bendery on Scribd Meanwhile, three of Kavanaughs former clerks who had written a letter supporting him told the Senate Judiciary Committee on Monday that they want to clarify that they are deeply troubled by the sexual assault allegations against him. We write to clarify that, like many Americans, we have been deeply troubled by those allegations and the events surrounding them and were encouraged by the initiation of a formal FBI investigation, which we believe is warranted, reads a letter signed by Will Dreher, Bridget Fahey and Rakim Brooks. We hope, for the good of everyone involved, that this investigation will be independent and thorough. Story continues Heres a copy of their letter: Former Kavanaugh clerks clarify position by jen_bendery on Scribd The FBI is investigating Blaseys allegations that a drunken, high-school-age Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed at a party, groped her and covered her mouth when she tried to scream. He has denied her allegation, along with allegations of sexual misconduct by him from two other women. Republicans gave the FBI one week to look into these claims. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), who is eager to put Kavanaugh on the court, regardless of the allegations against him, said Tuesday that hes aiming to hold Kavanaughs confirmation vote this week. CORRECTION: A previous version of this story misstated part of the allegation from Christine Blasey Ford. Her testimony indicated she couldnt see who pushed her into the room in which she says Brett Kavanaugh assaulted her. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Its tough to click on anything other than the $300 option when you are booking a round-trip flight to Paris, especially when there are $900 options down the page. But its also tough to see a tweet that says AIRLINE CEASES OPERATIONS, and realize that you now have a one-way ticket instead of a round-trip. This is the downside of low-cost airlines, which have flooded the market with prices that seem too good to be true. But does that potential downside that your airline will literally not exist anymore outweigh the hundreds or thousands of dollars you can save by using them? Its a tricky calculation for anyone to make. A charter jet for Primera Air taxis at Newark Liberty International Airport, Wednesday, May 2, 2018, in Newark, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) You may not have heard of Primera Air. Until it announced this week without warning that it was bankrupt and finished, it was a small Danish 15-plane airline based in Copenhagen and Riga, Latvia that launched in 2003 under the name JetX. On Oct. 1 Primeras website announced that operations have been suspended as of today, and on this sad day we are saying Goodbye to all of you (sic). Kindly understand that the usual options for contacts (via email or phone) can not be offered any longer, they add. The immediate termination of services has stranded passengers all over the world. @primeraair just cancelled all operations without telling us (we have a flight home to Boston in 2 days), and without apparently making any arrangements for stranded passengers to get home. Bravo, Primera, tweeted one unfortunate traveler. When a media outlet replied asking for an interview, the man tweeted: Thank you for the offer, but Im going to try to enjoy the rest of my honeymoon. So it looks like Primera Air has gone bankrupt, which means my eldest daughter and her new husband are stuck in Paris trying to get home to Toronto from their honeymoon. Anyone know if @AirCanada or anyone else is doing anything to help stranded passengers? Mathew Ingram (@mathewi) October 1, 2018 One Primera flight attendant begged British Airways in a tweet for help, after she was left stranded in Toronto by the airline. Scores of other stories from unfortunate travelers have emerged as they look at other flight options, some of which cost thousands. Story continues Behind Primeras troubles, according to the BBC, was the failure to secure long-term financing, which followed issues with delayed orders for Airbus aircraft. The airline was attempting to scale and compete with other low-cost airlines Wow and Norwegian Air. Adventures in the low-cost lifestyle Ticket prices for low-cost airlines can be a third of what mainstream airlines charge, but the experience can make even the biggest bargain not worth the hassle. I bought a Primera Air round-trip flight from New York-Newark to Paris-Charles de Gaulle for $348 when it popped up on Google Flights just before Labor Day. I had never heard of them, but their bare-bones service had a not-great-but-it-works review with The Points Guy. At the typical price, which is often around $600 (at off-peak times) to more than $1,000 during the summer and holidays, an international trip like this is essentially restricted to a formal undertaking that requires planning and a duration long enough to justify the cost. But with a $348 flight, the prospect of a long weekend was on the table. Worth a try, right? Two weeks after I booked, I received an email from irregularity@primeraair.com informing me that due to operational reasons my flights were canceled. I was given options to get a refund or rebook on a different flight with them or another carrier. I asked for and was given a refund a few days later, but was left with no flights. I went back to Google Flights and found good news. Flights could be found for as low as $292! I booked it, using separate one-way trips with Primera and Level, Iberias low-cost brand. Two weeks later, I saw on Twitter not from the airline that the company is kaput. Some travelers in this position have recourse more than others. Consumers who bought their flights with a credit card can dispute charges and attempt to get the money back that way, which is what I did, successfully. Travel insurance that comes with many credit cards check your terms and conditions may cover you as well. Some debit card providers may also protect users. For travelers that dont carry any insurance through their cards, they may be stuck with little recourse beyond the IATAs rescue fares, a program set up in 2014 in which solvent airlines offer affordable rides home to travelers left stranded by financially ruined airlines. But even if you get the refund, youll be stuck without a flight. I closed the loop by buying a ticket for $245 on Norwegian, bringing my total cost to $378 (including the 115 euro Level flight). As I should have expected, my low-cost adventure was not finished. The following day, I got an email saying my Level flight was also annule for raisons operationnelles. Thats French for you are not going to Paris. I never got any more information about the operational reasons, but if Primeras struggles are any indication, low-cost airlines with small fleets may have difficulty finding replacement planes if deliveries are delayed or if repairs hold up operations. I got a refund and tried to book another flight over, but couldnt find one in my price range so I was stuck with the one-way trip back from Paris the day before. However, U.S. law provides that even flights with no cancellations allowed can in fact be canceled within 24 hours of buying. It was 1:50 p.m., and I had bought my ticket at 2:10 p.m. the day before. I had 20 minutes. Unfortunately, part of what makes a low-cost airline low-cost is that they dont have hundreds of customer service reps answering calls, so a 50-minute hold time is nothing unusual. When I finally got a human, he told me they would honor the time the call was initiated. I had my refund. After three airlines, two flights canceled by the carrier for operational reasons, a disputed charge, and a bankruptcy, I was back where I started. No trip to Paris. This is bad, but its not the norm This is not a typical experience, of course, and my experiences on Iceland Air, Wow, and Norwegian have generally been fine, though I have had multiple instances of getting emails notifying me that my flights have changed in some material way. For flights that you simply must make, like business travel or inflexible vacation plans, it may make sense to spend a little more for the big airline with solid financials and a long track record. But if you have flexibility or wouldnt otherwise fly somewhere without a deal, low-cost airlines can save you a significant amount of money. For all the irritation over cancellations and delays, its hard to avoid the allure of transatlantic flights in the $300 range for most of the year, and in the $500 range in the summer, a time when flights routinely top $1,000. Since youll almost certainly arrive at your destination without a problem, have a normal seat size on the way, and a generally unremarkable experience, I am one of the many travelers who thinks its worth it. So I logged back onto Google Flights and searched my Paris dates: $380 with Norwegian, direct, round-trip, on a Boeing 777. I bought it. Of course, its being operated by EuroAtlantic airlines, a Portuguese-based airline with a fleet of nine planes. So perhaps the adventure is to be continued. Ethan Wolff-Mann is a writer at Yahoo Finance focusing on consumer issues, retail, personal finance, and more. Follow him on Twitter @ewolffmann. Consumers are one step closer to larger airline seats and safer pets Bravo Paris Hilton was the most beautiful bride! Kathy Hilton's daughter married Carter Reum at a Los Angeles estate on November 11, and her dresses (that's right she wore multiple) were nothing short of jaw-dropping. For her walk down the aisle, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills daughter donned a breathtaking gown by Oscar de la Renta. With a high neck and long sleeves, the lacy couture was capped off with a dramatic veil. I love how [the dress] turned out," the bride told Vogue. "I wanted some Johannesburg (AFP) - South Africa's finance minister testified Wednesday that he was sacked from the post by former president Jacob Zuma for refusing to back policies that would profit the Gupta business family at the heart of a corruption scandal. The Guptas are accused of fraudulently benefitting from government contracts and energy and transport deals during Zuma's presidency. He was ousted earlier this year amid multiple corruption allegations. Nhlanhla Nene was sacked by Zuma in 2015 in a move that shocked many South Africans and foreign investors. It fuelled allegations that Zuma and the Guptas were overseeing rampant state corruption. Nene was re-appointed as finance minister by the new president, Cyril Ramaphosa. He has vowed to crack down on graft and to revive growth in South Africa, the continent's most advanced economy. "I do believe that I was removed from office due to my refusal to toe the line in relation to certain projects," Nene told a judicial inquiry into state corruption. "Those projects may have benefitted the Gupta family and other close associates of the then president... for instance the nuclear deal and the SAA (South African Airways) strategy." Nene, speaking on oath at the hearings in Johannesburg, said that his then deputy Mcebisi Jonas was offered his job after Nene refused to back a huge nuclear expansion programme that the Guptas were set to benefit from. "It makes sense that those who wish to pursue a systematic strategy to raid the public coffers... would attack the role or credibility of the national treasury," Nene said in hours of testimony that piled accusations of misconduct on Zuma. Nene said pressure was applied on the treasury to access government funding or "to conceal dubious or irregular procurement." Jonas has previously told the inquiry that one of the Gupta brothers threatened to kill him after Jonas refused to accept a $40 million bribe. Story continues The inquiry, which opened in August, is probing allegations that Zuma organised systematic corruption in a scandal known as "state capture". Zuma was forced to resign in February over allegations centred on the Guptas, who were reportedly able to choose some of Zuma's cabinet ministers. Ramaphosa faces elections next year. The ANC party, which has ruled since Nelson Mandela came to power in 1994 after the end of apartheid rule, faces falling public support. Both Zuma and the Guptas deny any wrongdoing. Zuma, 76, has also been charged with 16 counts of graft linked to an arms deal from before he became president. He will next appear in court on November 30. LONDON (Reuters) - A study of the African bush elephant's vast network of deep wrinkles has found it is intricately designed to help the animals keep their cool, fight off parasites and defend against sun damage, scientists said on Tuesday. The fine pattern of millions of channels means the elephant's skin can retain five to 10 times more water than a flat surface, the scientists said. The research, conducted by scientists at Switzerland's University of Geneva and the Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, was published in the journal Nature Communications on Tuesday. "Because of their huge body size, and their warm and dry habitat, African elephants can avoid over-heating only by losing calories through evaporation of the water they collect in and on their skin," researchers wrote. The scientists found that elephant skin channels are not just folds or wrinkles, but actual fractures in the animal's brittle outermost layer of skin. The skin grows on a tiny lattice framework, they said, causing it to fracture under mechanical stress when the animals move. African elephants are known to love bathing, spraying and mud-wallowing, and since they have no sweat and sebum glands to keep their skin moist and supple, the tiny crevices trap and hold on to water and mud, helping to regulate body temperature. They also form a barrier against bugs and solar radiation. (Reporting by Kate Kelland, editing by Patrick Johnston) Johannesburg (AFP) - South Africa's finance minister gave damning testimony Wednesday against former president Jacob Zuma, accusing him of pushing policies designed to benefit the wealthy family at the heart of a government corruption scandal. Nhlanhla Nene was sacked by Zuma in 2015 in a move that shocked many South Africans and foreign investors as allegations grew that Zuma and the Gupta family were overseeing rampant state corruption. The Gupta brothers are accused of fraudulently profiting from vast government contracts and energy and transport deals under Zuma, who was ousted earlier this year by the ruling ANC party. Nene was re-appointed as finance minister by the new president, Cyril Ramaphosa, who has vowed to crack down on graft and to revive growth in South Africa, the continent's most advanced economy. "I do believe that I was removed from office due to my refusal to toe the line in relation to certain projects," Nene told a judicial inquiry into state corruption. "Those projects may have benefitted the Gupta family and other close associates of the then president... for instance the nuclear deal and the SAA (South African Airways) strategy." Nene, speaking under oath at the hearings, said that his then deputy Mcebisi Jonas was offered his job after Nene refused to back a proposed $100-billion Russian-built nuclear programme that the Guptas were set to benefit from. - 'Astronomical' nuclear costs - "It makes sense that those who wish to pursue a systematic strategy to raid the public coffers... would attack the role or credibility of the national treasury," Nene said, piling accusations of misconduct on Zuma. Nene added that pressure was put on the treasury "to conceal dubious or irregular procurement". He described the cost of the proposed nuclear power stations as "astronomical" and posing a threat to the country's finances. At a meeting with Zuma in 2015 when Nene declined to back the nuclear project, Nene said he received "a very tense and hostile" response from Zuma who wanted to report on progress to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Story continues The inquiry, which opened in August, is probing allegations that Zuma organised a web of graft at government departments and public enterprises in a scandal known as "state capture". Zuma was forced to resign in February over allegations centring around the Guptas, who reportedly held such sway that they chose some of Zuma's cabinet ministers. Former deputy finance minister Jonas has previously told the inquiry that one of the Gupta brothers threatened to kill him after Jonas refused to accept a $40 million bribe. Nene told the inquiry that he met Jonas on a balcony to avoid being bugged by the intelligence services, saying "even when you look at a flower pot, you are not sure." - Zuma's tarnished legacy - The Guptas owned a uranium mine, which would have seen profits soar from the nuclear deal, as well as a portfolio of mining, technology and media companies. When Nene was fired in 2015, Zuma replaced him with a little-known loyalist who lasted four days in the job as markets dived and investors pulled out of the country before a more respected minister was appointed. The Indian-born Gupta brothers -- Ajay, Atul and Rajesh -- have left South Africa and are now based in Dubai. Both Zuma and the Guptas, who employed Zuma's son Duduzane, deny any wrongdoing. The inquiry chair, deputy chief justice Raymond Zondo, urged public officials to give evidence. "I just hope people will realise it will be better if they come forward on their own... rather than be dragged screaming and kicking," he said. "This is a very serious issue in our country, the whole country wants to know what happened." Ramaphosa faces difficult elections next year as public support has declined for the ANC party, which has ruled since Nelson Mandela came to power in 1994 after the end of apartheid rule. Zuma, 76, has also been charged with 16 counts of graft linked to an arms deal from before he became president. He will next appear in court on November 30. Amazons decision to raise workers minimum wage to $15 per hour was welcome news, even Sen. Bernie Sanders praised the move. But for some Amazon employees, the excitement didnt last very long as they learned that existing financial incentives and bonus programs, including stock and monthly bonuses, that usually boost paychecks will be eliminated starting November 1. Several Amazon warehouse workers in the U.S., who spoke to Yahoo Finance on the condition of anonymity fearing reprisals, talked about how the change will negatively affect them. After the removal of these perks, some workers said they will be making less. Most of the workers who voiced concerns have been working for the company for more than two years, and have been earning close to $15 an hour before the raise. While these workers hourly rates will rise modestly, they said they could lose thousands of dollars that they would have collected from the stock and monthly-bonus programs. Amazon said those who are already making $15 an hour will see an increase in pay but did not specify how much. An employee earning $15.25 an hour who has worked for Amazon for more than three years in Arizona crunched the numbers. Although he is getting a $1 an hour raise, which would equate to as much as $2,080 in additional pay a year, he said he could have earned a few thousands of dollars more from the incentive programs. Amazon isnt giving its employees a raise, theyre taking money from us, he told Yahoo Finance. It only looks good if folks dont know the truth. An Amazon spokesperson said all hourly operations and customer service employees will see an increase in their total compensation as a result of this announcement. In addition, because its no longer incentive-based, the compensation will be more immediate and predictable. Not everyone at Amazon is happy about the wage increase. (photo credit/Time) In the past, Amazon had used stock options as a major selling point during the recruiting process. One of the ways we foster ownership among employees is through Restricted Stock Unit (RSU) awards. RSUs are a key part of our global compensation program, which has been carefully designed to help us attract, motivate and retain employees of the highest caliber, according to an Amazon brochure about the program. Story continues Under RSUs, full-time warehouse workers usually receive two or three shares each year after a two-year vesting period. Amazon stock (AMZN) has been on a bull run the share price has more than tripled since 2016 and now is around $2,000. Amazon said itll replace RSU with a direct stock purchase plan but didnt offer any specifics. Another major perk that Amazon is phasing out is employees monthly bonuses, called Variable Compensation Pay (VCP). An employee can earn up to 8% of their monthly income, but it depends on how many hours they work and the facility sites production goals. An average worker usually receives $1,800 to $3,000 a year through the VCP program, according to employees who talked to Yahoo Finance. Some said its especially frustrating to see the program removed now, since VCP doubles during peak months in the holiday season. Amazon warehouse employees go wild as news breaks of the companys new $15 minimum wage. (Screenshot/Youtube) Amazon said its decision to eliminate the financial incentive program was based on employees feedback. Weve heard from our hourly fulfillment and customer service employees that they prefer the predictability and immediacy of cash to RSUs, the company wrote in a blog post. The net effect of this change and the new higher cash compensation is significantly more total compensation for employees, without any vesting requirements, and with more predictability. The Amazon spokesperson also said, The significant increase in hourly cash wages more than compensates for the phase out of incentive pay and RSUs. The decision was widely cheered by new employees who will immediately see a significant increase in their paycheck. Amazon posted a video on the companys YouTube page featuring employees excitement and appreciation. While the minimum wage increase will also apply to Whole Foods Market workers, its unclear how the change will impact its stock option plan, which the company recently announced in response to some employees calling for unionization. Last month, in a letter to employees, CEO John Mackey said Whole Foods will create an Amazon equity program for all employees with at least 6,000 service hours. Do you work for Amazon/Whole Foods? We want to hear your experience. Drop us a line via krystalh@yahoofinance.com or follow Krystal on Twitter. Read more: Amazon bought Whole Foods a year ago. Heres what has changed Amazon and Whole Foods clash over products like Coca-Cola Almost half of Amazon Prime members we surveyed say theyll drop the service, but the company will be fine SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia will remove a controversial sales tax on women's sanitary products, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said on Wednesday, a move widely seen as an effort by the center-right government to win favor with female voters before an election due by May. Products such as condoms and sunscreen are exempt from the 10 percent goods and services tax that has been added to all other items sold in Australia for almost 20 years, including female sanitary products. Frydenberg said the tax would be removed from Jan. 1, 2019, after the approval of Australian state and territory lawmakers was secured. "We're really delighted that everyone's come on board to scrap what is an unfair tax," Kelly O'Dwyer, minister for women, told reporters in Melbourne. "Millions of Australian women will benefit as a result." Canada dumped a similar tax in 2015 after a petition was signed by more than 70,000 people, while Britain will scrap its equivalent tax on tampons from 2022. "The government has a problem with female voters, particularly centrists who have been turned off by some of its rhetoric," said Peter Chen, professor of political science at the University of Sydney. "In the era of #MeToo, it is a move that was a inevitable," he said. The politically unpopular tax will cease in Australia four months before the next election is due. Opinion polls indicate the government is on course for a heavy defeat, with voters angry about the ousting of former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull in a party-room coup in August. New Prime Minister Scott Morrison emerged as a compromise candidate after a challenge to Turnbull was launched by the right wing of the Liberal party, the senior partner in the Liberal-National coalition. A recent opinion poll showed the government was trailing the main opposition Labor party by 54 percent to 46 percent on a two-party preferred basis under Australia's preferential voting system, where votes from minor parties are redistributed. (Reporting by Colin Packham; Editing by Paul Tait) Sen. Bernie Sanders is praising Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos for increasing Amazon's minimum wage to $15. The Vermont senator has been fighting for years to increase the U.S. minimum wage to $15. He is calling on other executives and firms to do the same thing. Sen. Bernie Sanders praised CEO Jeff Bezos on Tuesday after Amazon AMZN announced that it will increase the minimum wage for its workers to $15 per hour for all U.S. employees . "It is no secret that I have been a harsh critic of the wage and employment practices of Amazon and its owner Jeff Bezos," Sanders said. "It has been my view that the middle class and working families of this country should not have to subsidize Mr. Bezos, the wealthiest person on Earth, because many of his Amazon employees earned wages that were so low that they were forced to go on government programs like food stamps, Medicaid and subsidized housing." Last month, Sanders introduced legislation named the Bezos Act that would tax corporations for every dollar their low-wage workers receive in government health-care benefits or food stamps. The Vermont senator on Tuesday congratulated Bezos "for doing exactly the right thing." Amazon said it will also start advocating for an increase to the federal minimum wage. "Today, I want to give credit where credit is due," Sanders said. Sanders has been fighting for several years to increase the minimum wage in the United States to $15 per hour. In his statement, Sanders also thanked Amazon workers who reached out to his office asking for support fighting for a minimum wage hike. The senator said Amazon's announcement, "could well be a shot heard around the world." Sanders called on other profitable companies to make similar moves. "Bottom line is that in the richest county in the history of the world, no full-time employee should be living in poverty," Sanders said. Bezos thanked Sanders on Twitter and said he "hopes others will join in." Story continues tweet More From CNBC The Paris Motor Show has been jam-packed with exciting announcements from car manufacturers visiting from across the globe, and BMW was no exception. CEO Harald Kruger opened the BMW segment with news we've been waiting for since March: the BMW i4 will be launching in 2021. BMW has quite the line-up of fully-electric vehicles on the way; in total, five will be available by 2021. The i3 is already available for purchase, the MINI Electric will be coming next year, the iX3 will be coming in 2020, and the iNext and i4 will both arrive in 2021. According to BMWBlog, despite the iNext allegedly having the most tech of all the EV models -- translating into a great deal of anticipation associated with its launch -- the public will most likely be more excited about the i4, an option that's much more affordable. Of the little information about the i4 that we have been provided with, AutoCar noted that Kruger confirmed that the model will be lightweight thanks to its materials, have a driving range of 435 miles and will be far from one of the few PHEVs on sale by 2025; he claims the group will have over 25 PHEV models available next to 12 pure EVs within seven years. Like AutoCar, BMWBlog also predicts that this model will be an all-electric version of the 4 Series Gran Coupe, perhaps with some inspiration from the i Vision Dynamics Concept car -- an electric four-door coupe -- which was on display at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show. "In 2022-2025 there will be a quick ramp up that we think will reflect the market and which is anyway a necessity to hit the emissions targets we are being set," Autocar reported Kruger predicting. Right now, it may be trendy to go electric, but in a couple years, it may be essential. BRASILIA (Reuters) - Brazil's far-right presidential candidate Jair Bolsonaro is polling ahead of leftist Workers Party rival Fernando Haddad for the expected runoff in this month's election, a Datafolha opinion poll showed on Tuesday. In a simulated second-round vote, the poll found Bolsonaro would get 44 percent support, beating Haddad's 42 percent, within the margin of error of the survey. The remaining 14 percent of voters are undecided or plan a blank or spoiled ballot for the vote, which is compulsory. If no candidate wins a majority in the first round on Sunday, the election will be decided in a second-round run-off on Oct. 28 between the two top vote-getters. In the first-round scenario, Datafolha found that Bolsonaro had 32 percent voter approval, four percentage points higher than the previous Datafolha poll on Sept 28. Haddad dropped one point to 21 percent. That raises the possibility of Bolsonaro rapidly gaining steam ahead of Sunday's vote - and possibly winning the election outright by taking a majority of the ballots. In 2014, about a quarter of the electorate did not decide on a candidate until the final days ahead of the vote. Datafolha's poll confirmed an Ibope survey released on Monday that showed Bolsonaro's advance since last week. The number of voters who say they would never cast their ballot for Bolsonaro, a former army captain who has angered many with misogynist and racist remarks, has continued to rise, reaching 45 percent of those polled by Datafolha. But in a sign of how increasingly polarized the election has become, the rejection rate for Haddad is at 42 percent, almost doubling since the previous poll four days ago. Datafolha surveyed 3,240 voters across Brazil on Monday and Tuesday. The poll's margin of error is 2 percentage points. (Reporting by Anthony Boadle; Writing by Brad Brooks; Editing by Daniel Flynn and Rosalba O'Brien) Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, in a 1983 letter preparing for beach week, refers to his friends and himself as a group full of loud, obnoxious drunks with prolific pukers among us. The letter, obtained by The New York Times, details plans for a trip to Ocean City, Maryland, where he and his pals were planning on renting out a condominium for a week of partying. The letter signed by Bart in apparent reference to a high school nickname of Mr Kavanaughs details the process to sign the condo lease, and to make sure they were not kicked out if too many people showed up for the week-long event. The letter comes as questions have been raised about Mr Kavanaughs description of his behaviour when he was in high school and college a topic that has itself been raised as a result of allegations of sexual misconduct from women who knew him in high school or college, and have alleged incidents that occurred while Mr Kavanaugh was drinking heavily. Mr Kavanaugh has denied all allegations of sexual misconduct. The nominee has described himself as a well-behaved young man who liked beer but did not generally overindulge. Others, including a handful of people who say they knew him in college, say that is not the case. On one of the last occasions I purposefully socialised with Brett, I witnessed him respond to a semi-hostile remark, not by defusing the situation, but by throwing his beer in the mans face and starting a fight that ends with one of our mutual friends in jail, Chad Ludington, a Yale classmate of Mr Kavanaughs who says he frequently drank with the nominee in college, told The New York Times. Others have also said that Mr Kavanaugh was a heavy drinker in college, and that his suggestion that he did not drink to the point of not remembering his actions is unlikely. The FBI has launched an investigation into the claims of sexual misconduct, including allegations from Dr Christine Blasey Ford, who says that Mr Kavanaugh once assaulted her at a house party in high school while he was very drunk. Mr Kavanaugh, she said in Senate testimony last week, held her down and groped her, attempted to take off her clothes, and held her mouth shut to keep her from screaming. Story continues The Senate Judiciary Committee voted on Friday to send Mr Kavanaughs nomination to the full Senate for consideration. That vote passed along party lines, but Republican Senator Jeff Sessions suggested at the time that he would not vote to approve in the full Senate without the FBI investigation. Senator Mitch McConnell, the majority leader, has meanwhile attacked Democrats for what he has described as delay tactics to undermine Mr Kavanaughs nomination. Mr McConnell has promised a full Senate vote on Mr Kavanaughs nomination some time this week. In a 1983 letter published by The New York Times on Tuesday, Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh suggests that he and his friends should warn the neighbors that they are obnoxious drunks prior to their Beach Week trip. The Times, which reviewed a copy of the handwritten note, reported that Kavanaugh acknowledged the letter was his. This is a note I wrote to organize Beach Week in the summer of 1983, Kavanaugh told the paper through his lawyers, declining to comment further. The letter outlines the groups plans for a trip to Ocean City, Maryland, where Kavanaugh and his friends rented a condo to host parties. It lays out intentions to invite girls over and beg them to stay. I think we are unanimous that any girls we can beg to stay there are welcomed with open .... , the letter reads. Anyway I think were all set. Kavanaugh ends the letter by signing off, FFFFF, Bart. A book by Kavanaughs high school friend Mark Judge, Wasted: Tales of a Gen-X Drunk, references a Bart OKavanaugh who puked in someones car the other night. During Kavanaughs testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee last week, he refused to say whether Bart OKavanaugh actually referred to him. LEAHY: Judge Kavanaugh, Im trying to get a straight answer from you under oath. Are you Bart Kavanaugh that hes referring to, yes or no? KAVANAUGH: Youd have to ask him. Letter is signed Bart. https://t.co/i2p0japj5v Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) October 2, 2018 However, the letters postscript seems to support that conclusion: P.S. It would probably be a good idea on Sat. the 18th to warn the neighbors that were loud, obnoxious drunks with prolific pukers among us. Three women have accused Kavanaugh of drunkenly assaulting or harassing them and other women during his time in high school and college. He has denied those allegations. Story continues Read the full letter at The New York Times. Related Coverage Brett Kavanaugh Plays The Victim All The Lies Brett Kavanaugh Told More Than 500 Law Professors Condemn Kavanaugh For Lack Of Judicial Temperament Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Earlier this month, California passed the strictest net neutrality laws of any state in the country, effectively undermining Donald Trump's FCC's efforts to give cable companies unfettered control of consumers' internet access. It was unclear at the time if Governor Jerry Brown would ultimately support it or not, but on Sunday we signed the bill into law. And immediately, in a testament to the conservative commitment to small government, the Justice Department announced that it would sue the state. Per The Verge: As the most populous US state and home to many of the worlds largest tech companies, Californias net neutrality rules, passed into law Sunday, hold significant sway. The DoJ lawsuit is likely to become a key test of the federal governments net neutrality legislation, establishing whether states have any right to enact their own rules that go against those imposed at the national level. The potential for a huge showdown with Donald Trump and two of his most loathed underlings, Jeff Sessions and Ajit Pai, is a real headline-grabber, but it also eclipses a lot of other big news out of California that should excite progressives. For one thing, California signaled to automakers on Friday that it was moving forward with enforcing Obama-era emissions standards regardless of whether or not the Trump administration chooses to roll them back federally, which it looks poised to do. On Saturday, Brown signed new gun control legislation that, among other things, raises the minimum age for gun ownership from 18 to 21. Also on Sunday, a new law went into effect requiring all publicly traded companies headquartered in the state to have at least a single woman on their board by the end of 2019. It wasn't all good news for progressives though: Brown also vetoed a plan for supervised injection sites, which is an extremely effective way to prevent opiate overdoses, and reached an agreement to keep the state's National Guard working with the Trump administration on the Mexican border for another six months. But those questionable decisions notwithstanding, this weekend California demonstrated what a legislature can do when it's run neither by the GOP nor Democrats too preoccupied with desperately trying to convince Republicans to get on board. In states and districts that are safely blue, Democrats can push for big ideas and policies that both work as models for other legislatures and shift the Overton window back toward the left after literally decades of Republicans jerking it their way. And that it all happened in California is further evidence that claims that the U.S. is "too big" for quick, substantial reform on multiple fronts at once; California has a bigger population than Canada and is one of the biggest economies in this hemisphere. Besides, look how many fires Trump's cabinet and the Republican Congress have started in just the last two years. By Elizabeth Piper BIRMINGHAM, England (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Theresa May will tell her Conservative Party on Wednesday that the impending divorce from the European Union is an opportunity that opens up a future full of promise, assuring the faithful: "We have everything we need to succeed." In a speech on the final day of her party's conference, May, who quietly campaigned to stay in the EU in a 2016 referendum, will take aim at critics who accuse her of failing to embrace Brexit. With only six months before Britain leaves the EU, May is under pressure over Brexit in Brussels and at home, where some of her loudest critics, particularly former foreign minister Boris Johnson, have done little to hide their leadership ambitions. Her efforts to take back the initiative on Brexit and her party's domestic policy at the conference in the English city of Birmingham have fallen flat, with euroskeptics stealing the limelight with their bid to force her to drop her so-called Chequers plan for Brexit. Her speech on Wednesday is the last chance at the conference for her to reset her agenda. "I passionately believe that our best days lie ahead of us and that our future is full of promise," she will say according to excerpts of her speech. "Don't let anyone tell you we don't have what it takes: we have everything we need to succeed." Describing Brexit as a "moment of opportunity", she will promise to always act in the "national interest", a swipe at Johnson, whose alternative proposals for leaving the EU, she says, would tear the United Kingdom apart. With no agreement with the bloc over the divorce or a future relationship, the last day of the conference marks the beginning of what some officials predict will be a frenzied couple of weeks of diplomacy between London and Brussels as the two sides try to secure a deal to end more than 40 years of partnership. May and her team face weeks of difficult conversations with Brussels to win a deal, but she also faces challenges from inside her own party not just over Brexit but also over what some members call a lack of direction on domestic policy. Her speech will try to address what many in the governing Conservatives see as a growing threat from the main opposition Labour Party, which staged an upbeat conference last week when its leaders voiced confidence of winning any new election. Taking aim at Labour's leader, Jeremy Corbyn, she will say that millions of people are "appalled" by his leftist policies, which include renationalizing rail, mail and utilities and boosting spending on infrastructure and housing. "They want to support a party that is decent, moderate and patriotic. One that puts the national interest first," she will say. "We must show everyone in this country that we are that party." And playing with Labour's refrain of being the party "for the many, not the few", she will add that the Conservatives should be: "A party not for the few, not even for the many, but for everyone who is willing to work hard and do their best." (Additional reporting by William James and Kylie MacLellan; Editing by Richard Balmforth) Christian Bale is an actor who adores physically transforming himself for roles, as evidenced by his severe weight loss for The Machinist (and his Oscar-winning turn in The Fighter), his portliness in American Hustle, and his ripped physique in the Dark Knight trilogy. Hes never been quite as unrecognizable, however, as he is as former Vice President Dick Cheney in the first full-length trailer for Vice, the upcoming film from writer-director Adam McKay (The Big Short). Theres a good shot of the significant gut that Bale grew for his turn as Cheney, the one-time secretary of defense and White House chief of staff who was selected by George W. Bush (Sam Rockwell) to be his running mate in 2000. More striking than his spot-on look as Cheney, however, is the halting cadence and gruff tenor of his voice, as well as the way he speaks a bit out of the corner of his mouth. Those mannerisms are so eerily accurate, one immediately suspects Bale is going to be in the thick of the awards conversation thanks to his latest turn. The chat that led to Cheney and Bushs union is the framing device for the above clip and features the latter telling the former Youre my vice! a loaded comment that will clearly be the basis for McKays film. Featuring Amy Adams as Lynne Cheney, Vice appears to be a star-studded affair thatll pull back the curtain on the Cheney machinations that helped guide Bushs two terms in office and, in the process, change the world. A new poster has premiered alongside the above clip: The just-released poster for Vice. (Photo: Annapurna Pictures) Co-starring Steve Carell as Donald Rumsfeld, Alison Pill as Mary Cheney, Lily Rabe as Liz Cheney, and Tyler Perry as Colin Powell, Vice will arrive in theaters on Dec. 21. Read more from Yahoo Entertainment: AURORA, Colo. (AP) Mary Bazel has given up on Rep. Mike Coffman. The 70-year-old retired civilian staffer at the Defense Department is a registered Democrat in suburban Denver who prides herself on not blindly voting for her party. She's regularly voted for Coffman, welcoming his moderate stance on immigration and his military service record. But Coffman's streak with Bazel has run out thanks to President Donald Trump. The congressman may differ with Trump sometimes, but Bazel yearns for Democrats to control the House so they can launch investigations and provide a check on the president. "I just feel like we've got to have a change to get rid of this awful person, before our democracy is destroyed," Bazel said, referring to Trump. If there are enough Mary Bazels here and in suburban congressional districts across the country, Democrats could be well on their way to gaining the 23 seats they need to flip control of the House. It's a reversal of fortune for lawmakers like Coffman, whose occasional bucking of the GOP has long been a selling point to voters. But in the partisan turmoil of the Trump era, it could turn into a vulnerability if voters in critical swing districts reject anyone with an R by their name to send a message to the president. Even some Republicans are concerned. Video: Some West Virginians Can Vote Using Their Cell Phones Watch news, TV and more on Yahoo View. "There are going to be some candidates who are unavoidably going to be swept up because of feelings toward the party," said David Flaherty, a Republican pollster in Colorado. "It doesn't matter how good your constituent services are, how much you did for your district." As his district grew more Democratic over the years, Coffman kept winning. An Army and Marine veteran who served in both Iraq wars, Coffman initially was elected to a comfortably Republican district in 2008. But just before the 2012 elections, his district shifted to one evenly divided between Democrats, Republicans and voters who don't register with either party. Once a supporter of legislation that would allow English-only ballots, Coffman learned Spanish, softened on immigration and became a fixture at Ethiopian church services, Hindu festivals and Salvadoran celebrations in his new district, where 1 in every 5 residents was born in another country. Story continues Coffman comfortably beat back three Democratic challenges debating one opponent in Spanish even as his district leaned more and more to the left. In 2016, as Hillary Clinton won the district by 9 percentage points, Coffman ran ads promising to oppose her and Trump. Coffman won by 8 points. Now he's fighting for his political life against Democrat Jason Crow, himself a former Army Ranger. Coffman's being outspent nearly 3-1 on the airwaves as gun control groups pour in money and hope to make an example of the Republican and his pro-gun stance in a district that includes the site of the Aurora theater shooting and abuts Columbine High School. The financial picture got grimmer last week when the political group tied to House GOP leadership canceled $1 million in ads they had planned to air to support Coffman. The congressional arm of the GOP is trying to help by increasing its ad spending by $270,000. Coffman shrugs off the risk. On a recent Sunday night, he was brushing ashes off himself moments after lighting a bonfire in a park to celebrate an Ethiopian religious festival. His speech to the crowd moments earlier had climaxed with the congressman imploring people to fill out a survey Ethiopian Airlines is circulating to determine whether they should start direct flights from Denver. Asked if this campaign was different than his previous ones, he answered: "No, not really." His work ethic is legendary he's been videotaped doing push-ups while waiting at the Denver airport for his flight to Washington, and is notorious for burning through staff with his nonstop schedule. He contends he's better prepared for a Democratic wave because he's used to fighting uphill re-election battles, unlike some other House members who could be caught by surprise. Coffman acknowledges he's at a new disadvantage now because of all the Democratic money targeting him, but dismissed their attacks tying him to Trump. "I work with this administration when I agree with them and I stand up to them when I don't agree with them," Coffman said. Though Coffman has voted for some GOP priorities like the recent tax bill, he highlights when he disagrees with the administration. He sponsored a bill to restore net neutrality after the administration revoked it and voted against the final bill to roll back President Barack Obama's health care plan. He's criticized Trump for using a vulgarity to describe immigrants from some African countries, for separating families that cross the border and for ending an Obama administration program to prevent deportation of people brought to the U.S. illegally. It's the last issue that Democrats frequently highlight to argue that Republicans like Coffman are all talk. Coffman and other moderates vowed to defy their own leadership in the House, executing a parliamentary maneuver to force a vote on legislation to provide legal residency to people brought to the country illegally as children after Trump rescinded the program that prevented their deportation, known as DACA. The bill would have passed the House on a bipartisan vote, but in the end the moderates withdrew it as part of a deal with GOP leadership. To Democrats, it's an example that, as long as Coffman lets Republican leaders control which bills get voted on in the House and the committees that would otherwise investigate the president what he says doesn't matter. "We live in a very different world than we did two years ago, and so does Mike Coffman," Crow said in a recent interview in the basement of a VFW hall, where he had just finished an event with former Rep. Gabby Giffords and her gun control group. "He's spent his entire career positioning himself as the check on the party in power and he can't do that anymore." That's the theme of the Democratic House campaign operation's first television ad against Coffman, which quotes him promising to stand up to Trump and then says he's voted with the president 96 percent of the time. The statistic is from the political website 538. Coffman says it's misleading, but Republicans used a similar percentage from the same site in 2014 as the centerpiece of their campaign to oust Democratic Sen. Mark Udall for voting too often with Obama. Ruth Gonce, 63, is a Democrat who never was won over by Coffman. "He's very good at standing up there with an immigrant and saying, 'I'm for these people,' and then he goes back to Washington and he votes with Trump," the retired real estate agent said as she waited at the Crow event. Coffman's hope is there are enough people left like Neb Asfaw, an Ethiopian-American community organizer and active Democrat who accompanied the congressman at the religious festival and still supports him because of his service to the community. "Nationally, I'd certainly like the Democrats to take the House," Asfaw said, "but at the end of the day, all politics are local." Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee in Washington, Sept. 27. (POOL New / Reuters) The Senate should not confirm Brett Kavanaughs nomination to serve as an associate justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. His confirmation would do serious damage to the credibility and integrity of the Supreme Court as a critically important institution in our constitutional system. I say this not because Kavanaugh is not intellectually qualified to serve on the court. To the contrary, viewed solely from that perspective, he is as well qualified as most of the other justices who have been confirmed in recent decades including Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, John Roberts, Sonia Sotomayor, David Souter, Lewis Powell, Warren Burger and Harry Blackmun, to name just a few. From this standpoint, I agree with the American Bar Associations original evaluation that Kavanaugh is intellectually and professionally well qualified to serve on the court. For a number of reasons, though, other considerations enter the picture. First, there is the unconscionable conduct of Senate Republicans in refusing to confirm President Barack Obamas nomination of Judge Merrick Garland in 2016. By any measure, Garland was as qualified as indeed, more qualified than Kavanaugh. But the Senate Republicans, in order to manipulate the confirmation process in a determined effort to control the future direction of the court, violated every well-established norm in a profoundly dishonest effort to get our nation to this point a point at which, if Kavanaugh is confirmed, there will be five Justices on the Supreme Court who are more aggressively conservative than any other justice, except Antonin Scalia, who has served on the court in living memory. Kavanaugh revealed himself to be untrustworthy in precisely the way justices of the Supreme Court must be trustworthy. Senate Republicans have used every available device and distortion to create a rock-solid right-wing five-member majority that will vote the straight-up Republican Party line on such fundamental issues as gun control, campaign finance reform, labor unions, abortion, gay rights, affirmative action, gerrymandering, corporate and commercial speech and minority voting rights, without regard to any serious, consistent or principled theory of constitutional interpretation. Story continues The confirmation of Kavanaugh would represent the triumphant completion of this strategy and the culmination of the Senate Republicans reprehensible treatment of Garland. This should not be permitted to happen. If it does, it will destroy the integrity and credibility of the Supreme Court for decades to come. To someone like myself, who has devoted his entire adult life to teaching, writing and speaking about the Constitution of the United States, this is truly devastating. What we need now what our nation deserves now is the appointment of a relatively moderate justice, like Garland or Souter, whose presence on the court will enable it to retain its identity as a court rather than as a partisan political actor. The Supreme Court should be seen as a court rather than as a partisan political actor. (Tasos Katopodis via Getty Images) Beyond that, there is the issue of personal integrity. With the highly credible testimony of professor Christine Blasey Ford, serious questions have been raised about Kavanaughs integrity, honesty and temperament. Having watched Fords and Kavanaughs testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, I am inclined to accept her version of events. But even if she is in error, I have no doubt that Kavanaugh could have calmly and sympathetically testified that her memory of the incident was flawed and that it was some other person who inflicted this horror upon her. He did not do so. Instead of expressing respect and sympathy for Ford and calmly suggesting that she was mistaken in thinking that he sexually assaulted her, he ranted and shrieked and tossed off accusations and lies that demonstrated, to my surprise, that he clearly does not belong on the Supreme Court of the United States. Even if he did not do what he is accused of, the way he presented himself was truly shocking, immature, irrational and uncontrolled. No person with that degree of emotional instability belongs on the highest court in our land. Kavanaugh revealed himself to be untrustworthy in precisely the way justices of the Supreme Court must be trustworthy. They must be calm, thoughtful, open-minded, respectful and mature; Kavanaugh has made strikingly clear that he is none of these things. That, in itself, is a compelling reason not to confirm his nomination to serve on the Supreme Court. Over the past half-century, I have had the privilege of getting to know, to varying degrees, most of the individuals who have served on the Supreme Court since 1968. None of them none of them would have behaved in the truly immature and reprehensible way Kavanaugh did before the Senate Judiciary Committee. He is simply not fit to serve as a justice of the Supreme Court. If President Donald Trump, Senate Republicans and the Federalist Society care at all about the integrity of the Supreme Court as an institution, it is time for them to go back to the drawing board. They can do better, and they should. Geoffrey R. Stone is the Edward H. Levi distinguished service professor of law at the University of Chicago. Sometimes the best place to meet someone is at work. And that goes for the rich and famous too! These dynamic duos were co-stars before they were together in real life. John Legend and Chrissy Teigen met while making a video for his song Stereo in 2007. Their memorably sexy chemistry onscreen turned into offscreen reality, and the two have been making beautiful music ever since. They met on the set of the soap opera All My Children, but you wont find much drama around top talker Kelly Ripa and actor Mark Consuelos. The two eloped in 1996, and after three kids and countless workouts, this hotter-than-ever twosome is still going strong. Another supercouple that leaped from the small screen into the real world: Game of Thrones co-stars Kit Harington and Rose Leslie. Their attraction on the HBO series was 100 percent genuine, but luckily their real lives are less tragic: They tied the knot in a lovely ceremony in June 2018. Love has bloomed, of course, on the big screen as well: Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling first hit it off during the filming of The Place Beyond the Pines in 2011. The famously private pair now have two daughters and a romance that makes us swoon. Another Ryan whos got casting agents to thank is Mr. Reynolds. He and Blake Livelys relationship bloomed while shooting 2011s Green Lantern. You dont need superpowers to see that these two are in it for the long haul! The series Riverdale may be packed with twists and turns, but theres nothing mysterious about how hot Cole Sprouse and Lili Reinhart are together. These two lovebirds hearts were set afire onscreen and off and we couldnt be happier for them. Our next couple is so cute that its almost a crime which makes sense, since Samira Wiley and Lauren Morelli met behind bars on the hit Netflix show Orange Is the New Black. Talk about a love lockdown Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem have more of a howd they meat story: They starred together in 1992s Jamon Jamon but went their separate ways until much later in life. The couple fell for each other while starring in Woody Allens Vicky Cristina Barcelona in 2008. This dynamic duo likes to keep their love under wraps, but after starring in nine movies together since their first meeting, theres no mystery that these two are totally in love. Story continues Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher met while starring in the megahit That 70s Show. The two took a break for a while but reunited for good and now share two amazing kids. Which Hollywood love story is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. Theresa May dances her way on to stage for her Conservative conference speech in Birmingham (Reuters) Theresa May has been accused in Brussels of dancing Britain off a cliff after refusing to rule out a no-deal Brexit or deviate from the Chequers plan in her conference speech. The prime minister self-depreciatingly strode onto stage in Birmingham to Abba hit Dancing Queen before delivering a confident speech which will silence her internal critics for now. It also won her plaudits from Swedens ambassador to the UK. As Swedish Ambassador I can only say Bravo to @theresa_may for starting her conference speech with ABBAs Dancing Queen. #CPC18 Torbjorn Sohlstrom (@sohlstromt) October 3, 2018 But her decision to sing the same tune on Brexit just two weeks before the deadline for a deal has been branded a reckless misstep on the continent. May didnt say the word Chequers once but called for unity over proposals which have repeatedly been rejected by the EU. The prime minister said they were the only way to deliver frictionless trade and avoid a hard border in Ireland. She said a no-deal Brexit would be a bad outcome but refused to rule it, saying to do so would weaken our negotiating position. MORE: EU gives May 28 days to change Chequers plan or face no-deal Brexit Philippe Lamberts, a Belgian MEP on the European Parliaments Brexit steering group, said the speech showed May was dancing Britain off a cliff to the tune of her divided party. Mrs May saying that shes not afraid of a no-deal Brexit shows that she is willing to risk the jobs and futures of millions of British and EU citizens who live with fear and uncertainty, he said. Instead of trying to appease the hard Brexiteers, she should be working for a deal which preserves citizens rights and peace in Ireland. Story continues Swedish MEP Cecilia Wikstrom suggested Mays speech was another attempt to have her cake and eat it by leaving the EU but maintaining some benefits of the single market. .@theresa_may No deal is a bad deal for all, let us work together to make the best of the sorry situation that is #Brexit Do not expect to eat, and keep, the cake. Leaving has consequences #CPC18 #eupol Cecilia Wikstrom(L) (@CeciliaWikstrom) October 3, 2018 On Ireland, May said she wouldnt accept a deal that carves off Northern Ireland a reference to EU proposals to effectively keep it in the customs union in order to prevent border checks. Instead, she again pushed Chequers proposals which she said would protect our precious Union, arguing: The seamless border in Northern Ireland, a bedrock of peace and stability, would see no change whatsoever. Gabrielle Zimmer, a German MEP on the steering group, said it was not a viable proposal that would guarantee the peace process after Brexit. She had nothing more to say on Brexit than things we already knew, said Zimmer. MORE: Accepting Mays Brexit plan would be suicidal for EU, says French minister If the British government does not want a fair deal, if it does not want to fulfil its commitments, now is the time to admit it. Irish senator Neale Richmond, who speaks for the countrys governing Fine Gael party on Brexit, said it was time for the megaphone diplomacy to give way to detailed negotiations. With the clock ticking, we need to see more detail from the British Government, the speeches must end, an alternative legal interpretation of the backstop agreed upon in December needs to be tabled, he said. Following the Prime Ministers speech in Birmingham, it is vital now that the focus of Brexit talks must now return to hammering out a deal in the coming days. Asked explicitly today whether May needs to chuck Chequers to get a deal as Boris Johnson suggested, a European Commission spokesman said: Its time to pursue these negotiations and bring them to a good end. MORE: EXCLUSIVE: EU says publishing its Chequers analysis would risk jeopardising Brexit deal Copenhagen (AFP) - Danish low-cost airline Primera Air halted operations on Tuesday, citing financial troubles that forced it to file for bankruptcy, and leaving angry passengers stranded. The move by Primera, which started in 2003 in Iceland and famously flew across the Atlantic for under $100, sent travel companies scrambling for alternative flights for customers. Calling it a "sad day" for both the airline's employees and passengers, Primera said it had worked relentlessly to secure long-term financing. "Not being able to reach an agreement with our bank for a bridge financing, we had no other choice than filing for bankruptcy," the carrier said. Primera Air and its codes for the world airline trade group, International Air Transport Association, were suspended from Oct 2, it said on its website. Primera had focused on charter flights for Scandinavian holidaymakers, but had pushed into the new low-cost transatlantic segment by offering one-way flights linking Paris and London with New York for $99 (86 euros). "We're working to find a solution for the rest of the week and the month. Our clients will hardly notice," said Peder Hornshoj, director of Bravo Tours who had 550 clients returning to Denmark. Angry customers on Tuesday commented on the carrier's Facebook page about cancelled flights and reimbursements. "Where will we get our refunds?" wrote one. "You cannot just leave us hanging like this." Primera was pioneering the use of Airbus's new A321neo jet. The updated, more fuel-efficient version of the single-aisle aircraft offers considerably lower operating costs compared to wide-body aircraft and has enough range to cross the Atlantic. However the airline said severe delays in the delivery of aircraft and operational issues had forced it to cancel flights, and eventually lease aircraft at considerable cost. Facing more possible delays in aircraft deliveries, and with higher fuel prices also squeezing its low-cost model, the airline said it decided to halt operations when it would have a smaller impact on clients. Primera's main competitor in the low cost transatlantic segment, Norwegian, uses wide-body Boeing Dreamliners, which also offer fuel savings compared to similar aircraft. Donald Trump has responded to a report suggesting he avoided paying hundreds of millions of dollars in inheritance tax, labelling the story a very old, boring ... hit piece. A day after the New York Times published a 14,000-word investigation filling eight pages of its Wednesday print edition that claimed the president engaged in schemes that included cases of fraud in which he and his siblings helped their parents dodge millions of dollars in taxes, the president dismissed the article. He said the newspaper was still angry it that it had failed to anticipate his 2016 election victory. The Failing New York Times did something I have never seen done before, he tweeted. They used the concept of time value of money in doing a very old, boring and often told hit piece on me. Added up, this means that 97 per cent of their stories on me are bad. Never recovered from bad election call. While Mr Trump routinely refers to what many believe to the USs most comprehensive newspaper as failing, he often reads it, along with the New York Post. The investigation into his tax affairs and schemes was published after a team examined 100,000 pages of documents. Some of them were public while tens of thousands were confidential, the newspaper said. Its main assertion was that the president had received the equivalent today of at least $413m from his fathers real-estate business. It said that after pouring though the vast trove of records, it believed the Mr Trump helped his parents evade taxes by setting up a fake corporation with his siblings to disguise millions of dollars in gifts. Reuters pointed out that during the 2016 presidential campaign Mr Trump promoted himself as a self-made real-estate mogul who started out with only a very small loan from his businessman father, Fred Trump. He sparked controversy when he refused to release his tax return, something that all previous presidential candidates have done. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders called the story misleading and said in a statement many decades ago the IRS reviewed and signed off on these transactions. Story continues Mr Trumps lawyer Charles Harder told the New York Times: President Trump had virtually no involvement whatsoever with these matters. The affairs were handled by other Trump family members who were not experts themselves and therefore relied entirely upon the aforementioned licensed professionals to ensure full compliance with the law. He added: There was no fraud or tax evasion by anyone. The facts upon which the Times bases its false allegations are extremely inaccurate. All estate matters were handled by licensed attorneys, licensed CPAs and licensed real estate appraisers who followed all laws and rules strictly. New York City mayor Bill de Blasio said on Twitter on Tuesday: Ive directed NYCs Department of Finance to immediately investigate tax and housing violations and to work with NY State to find out if appropriate taxes were paid. James Gazzale, a spokesman for the New York state department of taxation and finance, said earlier the department is reviewing the allegations in the New York Times article and is vigorously pursuing all appropriate avenues of investigation, according to Reuters. The US Internal Revenue Service did not reply immediately to a request for comment. DORTMUND, Germany (AP) Borussia Dortmund midfielder Christian Pulisic has been ruled out for at least two games with a muscle tear in his calf. The 20-year-old American missed Dortmund's Champions League game against visiting Monaco on Wednesday and the club says he will definitely miss the side's Bundesliga game at home to Augsburg on Saturday. The club did not give further details on when he could return. Pulisic was included on Monday in the United States' 24-man roster for games against Colombia on Oct. 11 and Peru five days later. Pulisic made the last of his 21 appearances for the U.S. against Bolivia on May 28. He missed last month's games against Brazil and Mexico because of an unspecified muscle injury, then scored two decisive goals within four days including the winner on his birthday against Club Brugge after returning to Dortmund's lineup. Rabat (AFP) - Morocco's navy rescued 37 of its citizens off the country's coast on Wednesday, as they were trying to cross the Mediterranean to Europe, the armed forces said. The migrants were saved from their partially-inflated rubber dinghy, which was struggling in "unfavourable meteorological conditions", Morocco's military said in a statement. After being rescued off the coast of Tangier on Morocco's northern coast, the group was taken to the city's port where they were "safe and sound". The dinghy they had been travelling in "sank just after the rescue operation", the armed forces said. The incident came a day after at least 13 people died when their boat ran into trouble off the coast of Nador in the country's northeast. Thirty-two migrants from sub-Saharan Africa were saved, according to local authorities, while organisations which support migrants put the death toll at 34. Thousands of people have tried to reach Europe from Morocco, most of them on boats bound for Spain or via the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa. More than 40,000 migrants have made it to Spain since the start of the year, including around 35,000 by sea, according to the International Organization for Migration. Morocco said last month it had foiled 54,000 bids so far this year by people trying to cross the Mediterranean to Europe. Some 80 smuggling networks have been dismantled in the same period, according to the interior ministry. As part of the crackdown, Morocco's navy last week opened fire on a speedboat which was ferrying migrants to Spain. A 22-year-old student was killed in the shooting, while three other Moroccans were wounded, sparking criticism from rights groups. Two employees at a Dunkin Donuts franchise in Syracuse, New York, have been fired after a viral video showed one of them pouring water on a homeless man. Jeremy Dufresne was at the restaurant Sunday night when an unnamed employee came up from behind and dumped water on him, according to the New York Daily News. How many times Ive got to tell you to stop sleeping in here? the employee tells Dufresne in the video. Youre here all day. Both employees can be heard laughing in the video, which was posted on Facebook and has been viewed more than 3 million times. Dufresne, who is schizophrenic and sleeps outside most nights, told Syracuse.com he was charging his phone at the Dunkin so he could call his mom to tell her goodnight. At some point, he put his head down, and thats when the employee dumped the water on him. He probably had some personal problems of his own and needed someone to talk to, Dufresne said of the worker. And he took it out on someone else, like me. After the video went viral, two dozen protesters gathered outside the doughnut shop on Monday and held up signs reading Homeless lives matter and Homeless are human, according to Syracuse.com. Dunkin franchisee Kimberly Wolak issued a statement condemning the employees who did it: Dunkin has been a part of the Syracuse community for many years, and as the franchisees who own and operate the North Salina Street location, we were extremely disturbed by the behavior of our employees captured in the video. It not only violated our written policies, but goes against our core values as an organizationwhich include creating a welcoming and hospitable environment and treating everyone with dignity and respect. The employees involved in the incident have been terminated, and we will be contacting the individual in the video to apologize for the negative experience. We also intend to work with local advocates to make sure that our employees are better educated as to how to engage with homeless individuals and where to direct them in the community for appropriate assistance. Story continues In addition, owners are hoping to make amends to the areas homeless population by serving lunch to them on Saturday, according to Syracuse.com. Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick told Syracuse.com his office is considering charging the now-former employees with harassment, which carries about the same fine as a speeding ticket. HuffPost reached out to Dunkin corporate offices, which did not immediately respond. A GoFundMe campaign organized on behalf of Dufresne has raised nearly $15,000. Also on HuffPost Help find shelter for homeless individuals Many communities have emergency programs that serve the homeless and other vulnerable populations. Stoops says that the best thing would be to arm yourself with as much information as possible about the various social services in your community (Where's the nearest shelter, for instance? Or what time does the neighborhood soup kitchen serve lunch?), so that you can offer this valuable information to the people you wish to help. If, however, you don't have this information handy, or if you are unwilling, for whatever reason, to personally approach the person in question, then you should consider calling a local crisis hotline (Forbes has a partial list of numbers you could call) or 911. (In the photo above, 28-year-old Victoria Morris is pictured panhandling in Portland, Maine, where the temperature at dusk was 7 degrees Fahrenheit on Friday. Morris, who is homeless, finally sought shelter when she could no longer feel her toes, the AP reports.) Offer blankets, clothes, hot food If you can't help someone find shelter, or if the temperatures are still cold but not blistering (in many cities, including New York City and Washington, D.C., shelters are only required by law to shelter everyone who seeks help if the temperature is below 32 degrees, Stoops said), then helping them with small comforts like blankets, warm clothing or hot food could go a long way. But keep this in mind: Even if you have the best of intentions, Stoops recommends that you use tact when approaching someone who you think is homeless. "There's a lot of shame involved in being homeless," he said, so avoid making assumptions or asking personal questions. Instead, Stoops says that you should consider following these steps: "If I have a blanket or a pair of socks or something, what I'll generally do is I'll introduce myself before asking for their name. Then rather than ask if they're homeless, I'll ask them: 'Where did you sleep last night?' I'll then ask the person if he or someone he knows could use the blanket I have." Even if you don't have an extra blanket on hand or warm clothing to spare, there's still something you can do. An act of kindness can lift spirits, Stoops says, and can be just as useful on a cold, dark night. "Our homeless friends have told us that oftentimes, simple conversation or just being treated nicely, with dignity and respect, is as important as getting something tangible," he said. (In the photo above, four homeless men are pictured warming themselves on a steam grate by the Federal Trade Commission, blocks from the Capitol, during frigid temperatures in Washington, Saturday, Jan. 4.) Help tackle the root causes of homelessness Ultimately, battling homelessness needs to be a sustained, long-term effort. "We shelter people when it gets really, really cold," Stoops said. "But it should be a year-round thing. I wish Americans would think of homeless people during the warmer months... We can lose as many people during the warmer months than the winter." Some parts of the U.S. can get dangerously hot during the summer months, which can put vulnerable communities at considerable risk of a whole slew of heat-related health problems, including heat stroke and dehydration. According to Stoops, volunteering also spikes during the holiday season and is not "consistent" through the year. "Around Thanksgiving and Christmas, there are so many volunteers that sometimes we have to turn them away," Stoops said. "But if I ask them if I can sign them up for a shift in the soup kitchen on Feb. 15 or Aug. 1, they get very quiet. Very few people can think about homelessness throughout the year but I'd encourage people to be consistent and to volunteer on a regular basis." Experts say that while short-term help is crucial and cannot be overlooked, fighting homelessness is a long-term process. "Giving out blankets and sandwiches" is great, Stoops said, but to tackle homelessness in a holistic way, we also need to think about "attacking the root causes of poverty." For instance, "we need to focuson increasing minimum wage, making housing affordable, improving health care and pushing public officials and religious leaders to tackle inequality and poverty," he said. (In the Nov. 20, 2013, photo above, homeless Korean War veteran Thomas Moore, 79, left, speaks with Boston Health Care for the Homeless street team outreach coordinator Romeena Lee on a sidewalk in Boston.) Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. By Aaron Maasho HAWASSA, Ethiopia (Reuters) - Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed told members of his ruling coalition that "an attack on one is an attack on all" on Wednesday as he pushed for unity after months of ethnic violence. Abiy has presided over a series of jolting political and economic changes since coming to office in April - making peace with arch-foe Eritrea, freeing political prisoners, pledging to open up the state-controlled economy and promising to overhaul the security services. But the reforms have not stopped ethnically-charged violence that has escalated since he was named premier - including in his own native Oromiya region where protesters first took to the streets in 2015 over perceived marginalization by the state. "If we are see a developed Ethiopia, we should not commit violence on the basis of ethnicity or religion," he told about 1,000 delegates at the congress of Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) in the southern city of Hawassa. "An attack on one is an attack on all. The displaced of one is the displacement of all. The death of one is the death of all," he added. Abiy has promised to push for reconciliation and allowed the leadership of the separatist Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) - previously outlawed as a terrorist organization - as well as the opposition group Patriotic Ginbot 7 to return from exile. But the fighting has continued. Clashes about 150 km (90 miles) from Hawassa between two ethnic groups, the Oromos and Gedeos, have forced nearly a million people to flee their homes since Abiy took power. Last week, more than 70,000 people - mostly ethnic Oromos - were targeted by members of other groups in the western state of Benishangul-Gumuz, regional officials said. PAST SACRIFICES Abiy, the first leader from the Oromo ethnic group in Ethiopia's modern history, used his speech to praise past leaders as he sought to reassure the coalition after his changes. "A country develops through transitions and a handover of leadership. The new generation should not blame the old generation but be grateful for their achievements and sacrifice," he said. "It is not about wiping out history - a history that has brought us here," Abiy told the audience, many of them wearing T-shirts and hats emblazoned with the logos of the four ethnic groupings in the EPRDF. There was scattered applause through his remarks in a large conference hall. The 42-year-old former army officer who speaks three Ethiopian languages has delighted many in the country and among its Western backers by ending the military standoff with Eritrea. But there were signs the rapid changes had caused misgivings in some quarters. Two people were killed and scores wounded in a grenade attack on a rally attended by Abiy in June. The Tigrayan Peoples Liberation Front, an ethnic Tigrayan movement that had dominated the EPRDF until Abiy's rise and led the fight against Mengistu, initially warned against making concessions to Eritrea. Abiy took over after street protests forced the resignation of the last prime minister, Hailemariam Desalegn, in February. Wednesday's congress was the party's first since the unrest started to spread in 2015. (Reporting by Aaron Maasho; Writing by Maggie Fick; Editing by Andrew Heavens) Paris (AFP) - Britain's looming exit from the EU risks hindering essential Europe-wide cooperation to thwart terrorist attacks, experts warn, despite the determination of security agents on both sides of the Channel to keep working together. The main problem is London's eventual loss of unlimited real-time access to pan-European databases in case Britain crashes out of the bloc without a police cooperation deal in place. Even if such a "hard Brexit" is avoided, the country's National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) announced last month that it is setting up an operations centre to train agents for new sharing protocols after the UK leaves in March 2019. But those tools are expected to fall far short of the European arrest warrant, the Schengen Information System -- which British police consulted 539 million times last year -- or the Europol network, said NPCC head Sara Thornton. "The fallbacks we're going to have to use will be slower, will be more bureaucratic and it would make it much harder for us to protect UK citizens and EU citizens," she said. For Malcolm Chalmers, a security expert and deputy director of the Royal United Services Institute, "if the UK was no longer able to take part in the EU databases that are developing rapidly, if no new means of involvement were to be found, then there would be a significant downside, because it would be much harder to replicate that level of data sharing. "It doesn't mean that there would be no cooperation without UK membership, but it would be slower, more ponderous," he told AFP. "The real issue is speed and simplicity: the more complex the processes are, the more time it takes, the less the police can do," he added. - 'Stovepipes' - British agents have built up solid relations with their counterparts across Europe, having worked side-by-side on several long cases as jihadist attacks have increased in Europe. Story continues Yet their determination to coordinate closely after Brexit will nonetheless run into bureaucratic challenges, analysts say. "Even in a ideal world where the UK and the EU maintained near-perfect information sharing, the counter-terrorism and law enforcement challenges would remain immense," according to a report from the Soufan security think-tank in the US last month. "The threat level will continue to remain elevated for years to come, and the possibility of a no-deal Brexit will simply make that threat more difficult to counter by creating unnecessary stovepipes that will hamper the sharing of information and intelligence across relevant agencies," it wrote. Given the high stakes, however, and the disastrous potential consequences in case of intelligence-sharing failures, most agents remain optimistic that frictions will be kept to a minimum. Nobody wants to be held responsible for allowing a terrorist attack simply because following the new procedures kept vital intelligence from crossing the Channel in time. "Brexit or no Brexit, agencies will continue to cooperate with London as they have done for the past 50 years," said Alain Chouet, a former head of France's DGSE foreign intelligence agency. "With the English, things work pretty well, as long as we don't mess directly in their affairs," Chouet added. "One of our agencies' missions is to make up for international political hazards. We're paid for that, we do it, and the English do the same," he said. "For our agencies, cooperation has always gone well. And it will continue to do so." The FBIs supplemental background investigation into sexual misconduct allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh has so far not included an interview with Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, the first woman who came forward and who testified in front of the Senate Judicial Committee last week, according to Fords lawyers. Attorneys for Ford consequently sent a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray and FBI General Counsel Dana Boente on Tuesday, which said that although Ford had pledged her cooperation wth the investigation after President Donald Trump authorized it on Friday, the organization has not responded to their inquiries and has not identified the agents responsible for conducting the inquiry. It is inconceivable that the FBI could conduct a thorough investigation of Dr. Fords allegations without interviewing her, Judge Kavanaugh, or the witnesses we have identified in our letters to you, Fords attorneys, Michael Bromwich and Debra Katz, wrote in a letter obtained by TIME. Kavanaugh has emphatically denied all accusations of sexual misconduct. Fords attorneys wrote in the letter to the FBI that they only learned through the media that the FBI might not have plans to interview Ford. NBC News reported on Tuesday afternoon, citing a source familiar with the Trump administrations thinking, that the FBI has no plans to interview Ford as part of the investigation. The outlet reported that the White House deemed an interview with Ford unnecessary since she had already testified under oath that Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her when they were teenagers. Senate Republicans have privately expressed similar sentiments. We hope that this reporting is inaccurate, Fords attorneys wrote. A member of Fords legal team said they had still not heard from the FBI. The FBI did not immediately respond to request for comment. The complaints from Fords attorneys are the latest controversy to emerge since the FBI began its investigation five days ago. Reports had initially emerged that the White House was limiting the scope of its investigation, but Trump said on Monday that the FBI should be allowed to interview anyone it deems necessary. Deborah Ramirez the second woman to come forward with sexual misconduct allegations against Kavanaugh, claiming in an interview with the New Yorker that he exposed himself to while they were drunk in college has been interviewed by the FBI. But Ramirezs attorney said on Tuesday that she had provided the names of 20 witnesses who could corroborate her account, and he was unaware that the FBI had contacted any of them. Though we appreciated the agents who responded on Sunday, we have great concern that the FBI is not conductingor not being permitted to conducta serious investigation, Ramirezs attorney, John Clune, wrote on Twitter Tuesday. Story continues Debbie Ramirez spoke to the FBI for over two hours this past Sunday. It was a detailed and productive interview, and the agents were clearly motivated to investigate the matter in any way they were permitted. Ms. Ramirez identified a number of witnesses, and, 1/ John Clune (@CluneEsq) October 2, 2018 The third woman to come forward with an allegation, Julie Swetnick who is represented by porn star Stormy Daniels attorney Michael Avenatti has also not yet been contacted by the FBI, according to Avenatti. Swetnick alleged in an affidavit that Kavanaugh was present at a party in which she was gang raped Louisiana, which Kavanaugh has denied. Sen. John Kennedy, who sits on the judiciary committee, said that Swetnicks allegations were not included in the agreement reached to authorize an FBI investigation last week. Broadening the scope of the investigation, however, has potential to undermine the timeline set by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who has said repeatedly that there would be a vote on Kavanaughs confirmation this week. With reporting by Philip Elliott/Washington WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. first lady Melania Trump departed for Africa on Monday for a four-country trip that serves as her first major solo sojourn abroad on behalf of her husband President Donald Trump's administration. Mrs. Trump is scheduled to make stops in Ghana, Malawi, Kenya and Egypt in a nearly week-long trip to focus on children's issues. She is due to arrive in Accra on Tuesday. President Trump has not visited Africa since entering office in 2017, but he has garnered sharp criticism for reportedly referring to immigrants from African countries with a derogatory term. (Reporting by Jeff Mason; Editing by Toni Reinhold) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Republican U.S. Senator Jeff Flake on Tuesday expressed concern about Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh's interactions with members of the Judiciary Committee during last Thursday's hearing on sexual misconduct allegations against the judge. "I was very troubled by the tone of the remarks. ... The interaction with the members was sharp and partisan, and that concerns me," said Flake, who was instrumental in initiating a week-long FBI investigation into the allegations. "I tell myself, 'You give a little leeway because of what he's been through.' But on the other hand, we can't have this on the court. We simply can't." Kavanaugh, nominated by President Donald Trump, lashed out at Democratic senators during the hearing, frequently interrupting them. He also accused Democrats of orchestrating a political "hit" against him. (Reporting by Richard Cowan; Writing by Lisa Lambert; Editing by Will Dunham) Senate Republicans on Tuesday released a letter from a man who claims to have been in a relationship with Julie Swetnick in the 1990s. (Photo: Michael Avenatti / Twitter) WASHINGTON Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee, seeking to undermine one of the three women who have accused Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct, on Tuesday released a rambling letter from a former TV weatherman that makes claims about the womans sexual preferences. Dennis Ketterer, a former D.C. weatherman, wrote a letter to the committee describing a relationship he says he had with Julie Swetnick in the 1990s. Swetnick, who is represented by the high-profile attorney Michael Avenetti, has claimed that Kavanaugh was a mean drunk in high school and that he was inappropriate with girls at parties. The claims made by Swetnick, who is several years older than Kavanaugh, are not as specific about Kavanaughs behavior as those of two other women who have accused him of sexual assault in high school and college. Among Swetnicks more explosive claims is that Kavanaugh and his friend Mark Judge were present when she was gang-raped at a house party in about 1982. Kavanaugh has denied Swetnicks claims, calling them ridiculous and from the Twilight Zone. The Senate Judiciary Committee, headed by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), called Ketterer a former Democratic candidate for Congress and weatherman for WJLA Channel 7 in Washington in a press release about his letter. The Washington Post reported in 1995 that Ketterer was fired by WJLA after he was diagnosed with bipolar II disorder. Ketterer wrote in his letter that he first encountered Swetnick in 1993, and thought she was a high end call girl when they met, because Ketterer weighed 350lbs and had never been hit on in a bar before. He said they never had sex, but had conversations in which Swetnick told him she liked to have sex with more than one guy at a time and that shed first tried sex with multiple guys while in high school and still liked it from time-to-time. Ketterer said he came to regard Swetnick as smart, fun and funny, but also as an opportunist. I felt she only had interest in my 350 lb self because I was on television and well known, he wrote. Story continues Ketterer said he decided not to see Swetnick anymore due to her penchant for group sex, writing in his letter that A.I.D.S. was a huge issue at the time. But he claims he tried to reach out to Swetnick when he decided to run for Congress in 1996, thinking she could help him with his primary campaign because of her personality, great smile and good looks. When he called her father to get Swetnicks number, Ketterer claims, her father said she had psychological problems. He wrote that Swetnick never mentioned any sexual assaults or Kavanaughs name to him during their brief relationship. But based on his direct experience with Julie, Ketterer wrote, he did not believe her allegations against Mr. Kavanaugh. Avenatti told HuffPost the letter is complete garbage and evidence that the GOP must be truly desperate. The letter from Dennis Ketterer is garbage - the GOP is desperate. The allegations he makes are false and without any basis. We demand that the FBI interview my client & him, and that anyone found to have submitted false info be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Michael Avenatti (@MichaelAvenatti) October 2, 2018 A spokesperson for the Senate Judiciary Committee did not respond to questions about why they decided to release Ketterers letter, or whether they had any concerns about his claims. Need help? Visit RAINNs National Sexual Assault Online Hotline or the National Sexual Violence Resource Centers website. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. COPENHAGEN (Reuters) - Greenland Prime Minister Kim Kielsen presented a new minority government on Tuesday, ending a political crisis that started when he lost his majority last month with the withdrawal of a pro-independence party. Kielsen of the social democrat Siumut party told a press conference in the capital Nuuk that he had agreed with the liberal-conservative party Atassut and the separatist, center-left party Nunatta Qitornai to form a minority government with the support of The Democrats, state broadcaster KNR reported. A political stalemate on the Arctic island has delayed expansion of major airport projects of strategic interest to both Washington and Beijing and created uncertainty over an ambition to attract foreign investments into its vast hydrocarbon and mineral resources. Greenland, eager to benefit from growing activity in the Arctic, plans to expand airports in the capital Nuuk, the tourist hub in Ilulissat and at Qaqortoq in southern Greenland to cater for direct flights from Europe and North America. The Arctic island is a self-ruling part of Denmark, which is concerned that Chinese investment - on the agenda since Greenland's Prime Minister Kim Kielsen visited Beijing last year - could upset the United States. Pro-independence party Partii Naleraq on Sept. 10 withdrew from a coalition formed in May over Denmark's plan to part-fund the upgrade of two airports. Kielsen's Siumut, the two other parties in the coalition, Atassut and Nunatta Qitornai, and the supporting Democrats all back a proposed Danish contribution to the airports. "I think the new government can survive at least a year," Mikaa Mered, an Arctic expert and professor at the Ileri institute in Paris. "Siumut and Kim Kielsen are trying to signal investors that they are really committed to their pro-business, pro-mining and pro-uranium platform," Mered said. The three parties will hold 13 seats in the 31 seats in parliament. Kielsen's Siumut party is the largest party in Greenland. The second biggest party Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA) was left out of the coalition. Greenland relies on fishing and annual grants from Denmark. (Reporting by Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen and Emil Gjerding Nielson, Editing by William Maclean) Creil (France) (AFP) - French police arrested Wednesday a notorious gangster who had been on the run for three months after an audacious Hollywood-style helicopter jailbreak. Dozens of masked police swarmed a public housing estate in the Oise region north of Paris in the early hours, nabbing 46-year-old Redoine Faid along with four other people in a raid on an apartment. Faid's brother Rachid and two of the gangster's nephews were arrested along with the apartment's landlady, according to police sources. Two guns were found in the flat, while two other alleged accomplices were arrested during a simultaneous raid in the Paris region, sources said. At around 3am, "I heard a racket," said Alliou Diallo, who lives on the ground floor of the small building, three floors below the apartment where Faid was holed up. "I saw around a hundred police wearing masks," he said, adding of Faid: "I never thought he could be here." Prime Minister Edouard Philippe hailed the "meticulous" police work that led to the arrests, saying in a tweet that they had pulled off the high-stakes operation "without any clashes". - Career criminal - But another local resident, Farah Ziane, was less happy -- the police initially stormed her grandfather's apartment by mistake. "They broke down my 86-year-old grandad's door, it's shameful," she said, as the elderly man stood next to her, looking completely lost. Upturned boxes lay in the corridor, while the bolt to the door had been smashed. A massive manhunt was launched after Faid's daring July 1 escape, in which two heavily armed accomplices used smoke bombs and angle grinders to break through prison doors and whisk him to a waiting helicopter. Faid, a career criminal with multiple convictions for armed robbery, was sprung from the jail in Reau, 50 kilometres (30 miles) southeast of Paris. Around 100 elite police were deployed to track down Faid, who has cited movie baddies such as Tony Montana in "Scarface" as an inspiration and said he discovered his "calling" at the age of 12. Story continues Scattered furniture and clothes could be seen on the floor of the apartment on Wednesday morning, along with police forensic gloves. Faid, who previously escaped from prison in 2013 before being captured six weeks later, had been serving a 25-year term over a botched 2010 heist in which a policewoman was killed, though he claims her death was accidental. - Smoke bombs - The spectacular jailbreak saw two men posing as flight-school students, who had already taken an introductory flight, force a helicopter instructor at gunpoint to fly them to the jail. The terrified pilot landed in the courtyard -- the only part of the prison not fitted with anti-helicopter nets. A pair of black-clad men armed with assault rifles then alighted and set off smoke bombs before breaking into the visiting room, where Faid was meeting with his brother who was later taken into custody. The wardens, who were unarmed, fled and raised the alarm. But within 10 minutes Faid was gone, cheered on by his fellow inmates. The helicopter was found shortly afterwards in a suburb northeast of Paris, along with the pilot, who had been beaten and was taken to hospital in a state of shock. Several days after his escape investigators found a stash of guns, masks and a cement cutter in the Oise region where Faid grew up, which they believed belonged to his gang. Faid narrowly avoided capture on July 24 and had to abandon a car containing explosives after he was identified as one of two people who sped away when police tried to carry out a security check on their car north of Paris. In early September police carried out searches targeting the robber's relatives, but made no arrests. The escape, which brings to at least five the number of jailbreaks in France in the past three decades involving helicopters, prompted a heated debate about whether the country's prisons are secure enough. Netting has since been fitted over the courtyard where Faid's helicopter landed to whisk him away. Photo credit: Car and Driver From Car and Driver Honda is partnering with General Motors to spend billions of dollars on autonomous cars in a new joint-venture manufacturing deal. Cruise Automation, the San Francisco startup GM purchased in 2016 for $1 billion, is cashing a $750 million equity stake from Honda. The Japanese automaker has also promised to drop some $2 billion over 12 years with GM and Cruise to mass-assemble a fully autonomous car that may never wear a Honda logo. Just last June, Honda announced plans to sell a Level 4 autonomous car (fully automated within a restricted area) by 2025. Whether that car will still be called a Honda is anyone's guess. Cruise started by retrofitting Audi models with clunky roof-mounted sensor racks that demonstrated automated driving years before Tesla Autopilot and similar systems arrived. With investments now topping $14.6 billion and the support of GM-which built a small fleet of heavily modified Bolt EVs using this technology-Cruise claims to be developing its own autonomous vehicle with plans for "global deployment" at a "massive scale." In decades past, Honda would never have relied so heavily on outside suppliers or manufacturers for such engineering exercises. But while Honda continues to develop engines, transmissions, hydrogen fuel cells, electric powertrains, and even small jets by itself, automated vehicles have appeared to stretch the company's expertise in software and sensing technologies to its limit. The timelines are shorter, too. Every automaker is racing to release automated vehicles-this despite making broad assumptions about government regulations and customer acceptance-and tech startups like Cruise are a convenient, if uncharted, R&D shortcut. The partnership just announced involves Honda taking about a 6 percent stake in GM's Cruise Automation; this GM self-driving-car division is now valued at about $14.6 billion. Another investor, SoftBank Vision Fund, invested $2.3 billion in Cruise earlier this year. ('You Might Also Like',) Rome (AFP) - A far-right sympathiser who went on a shooting spree against Africans in a revenge attack in the central Italian town of Macerata was Wednesday jailed for 12 years, media reports said. Luca Traini embarked on his two-hour assault in February, following the sordid murder of a young Italian woman allegedly at the hands of Nigerian drug dealers. Pamela Mastropietro's body was found dismembered and stuffed into suitcases days before Traini's attack. The two incidents, which occurred at the height of Italy's tense electoral campaign, shook the country and laid bare deep tensions surrounding immigration. Pro-migrant demonstrations across Italy condemning the shooting were in contrast to an outpouring of support for Traini who received messages of solidarity for his actions. Controversially, no politician paid a visit to his victims in hospital. Traini, who was charged with attempted murder and racial hatred, would appeal, his legal team said, claiming the wounds suffered by the injured Africans showed he had not shot to kill. He offered an apology to the wounded, five of whom were in court. "I would like to apologise for what I did," Traini reportedly said. "In prison I have understood that there is no difference between blacks and whites." During questioning, he had told police: "I wanted to hit the dealers, like those who sold drugs to Pamela. "It's not my fault if in Macerata all the dealers are black," he added. The former security guard admitted to the shooting but rejected allegations the attack was racially-motivated. His defence team had provided a psychiatric report which stated that Traini suffered from a personality disorder and that he was not completely aware of his actions at the time of the attack. Traini surrendered to police draped in an Italian flag. Rome (AFP) - Italy's populist government bowed to pressure from the European Union over its spending plans with an offer Wednesday to taper budget deficit targets beyond 2020, as it looked to reassure nervous markets. Rome sparked disquiet last week by unveiling a budget that set the public deficit at around 2.4 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) for the next three years, earning a rebuke from the EU and stoking investor fears that Italy's mammoth debt could grow further. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte moved to row back slightly on Wednesday, saying the country was now eyeing deficits of 2.1 percent in 2020 and 1.8 percent in 2021. He had earlier vowed to speed up Italy's efforts to reduce its public debt which is at a sky-high level of 131 percent of GDP -- the eurozone's second biggest after Greece. The announcement came after Finance Minister Giovanni Tria said the deficit would be squeezed after 2019 because Rome saw reducing public debt as "fundamental". It was a sharp change in tack from Italy, after Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini on Tuesday threatened to seek damages from European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker for scaring off investors by attacking Rome's budget plans. The yield on Italian government bonds has spiked higher in recent days, with worried investors demanding more interest to hold onto Italian debt, making it more expensive for Rome to borrow on international markets. The closely-watched spread between the rates on 10-year bonds paid by Italy compared with those offered by Germany, which is a measure of the added risk perceived by investors to holding onto Italian debt, hit the highest level in a month on Monday. European Commissioner for Economic Affairs Pierre Moscovici, who angered Rome earlier this week by urging it to tell Italian people the truth about the need for sound spending, reinforced his criticisms Wednesday. "The Italians have... chosen a resolutely eurosceptic and xenophobic government that, on issues of migration and budget, is trying to get out of its European obligations," he said on the fringes of an OECD forum meeting in Paris. Dubai (AFP) - Jamal Khashoggi, a prominent Saudi journalist who has gone missing after entering his country's consulate in Istanbul, has been an outspoken critic of the ultra-conservative kingdom's government. The Washington Post contributor has called for public debate and defended both freedom of expression and Islamist groups. He went into self-imposed exile in the United States in 2017 after falling from grace with Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia's powerful crown prince. He described a new Saudi era of "fear, intimidation, arrests and public shaming" in an article published in the Post that year. He had previously served as an advisor to the Saudi government. Khashoggi, who turns 60 on October 13, is a vociferous critic of Prince Mohammed's policies in both the Arab and Western press, with editorials in the Washington Post and The Guardian. In a March 6 Guardian editorial co-authored with Robert Lacey, Khashoggi wrote: "For his domestic reform programme, the crown prince deserves praise. But at the same time, the brash and abrasive young innovator has not encouraged or permitted any popular debate" on the changes. "He appears to be moving the country from old-time religious extremism to his own 'You-must-accept-my-reform' extremism, without any consultation - accompanied by arrests and the disappearance of his critics." Khashoggi fled the country in September 2017, months after Prince Mohammed was appointed heir to the throne and amid a campaign that saw dozens of dissidents arrested, including intellectuals and Islamic preachers. Khashoggi said he had been banned from writing in the pan-Arab daily Al-Hayat, owned by Saudi prince Khaled bin Sultan al-Saud, over his defence of the Muslim Brotherhood which Riyadh has blacklisted as a terrorist organisation. The writer said Saudi authorities banned him from using his verified Twitter account after he said the country should be "rightfully nervous about a Trump presidency." Story continues US President Donald Trump has expressed support for Crown Prince Mohammed. Khashoggi has also criticised Saudi Arabia's role in Yemen, where Riyadh leads a military coalition fighting alongside the government in its war with Iran-backed rebels. The writer opposes a Saudi-led boycott of Qatar, a tiny Gulf emirate that has found itself isolated over its allegedly close ties to extremist groups and Iran. Khashoggi was born in the western Saudi city of Medina, revered in Islam as the burial place of the Prophet Mohammed. He has done business with billionaire Saudi Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal. After a youth spent studying Islamic ideology, Khashoggi later embraced more liberal ideas. He began his career as a journalist with Saudi dailies in the 1980s, covering the Afghanistan conflict for the Saudi press. Authorities came to see Khashoggi as too progressive and he was forced to resign as editor-in-chief of the Saudi daily Al-Watan in 2003. Khashoggi has retained ambiguous ties to Saudi authorities, having held advisory positions in Riyadh and Washington -- including to Prince Turki Al Faisal, who ran Saudi Arabia's intelligence agency for more than 20 years. Tokyo (AFP) - A Japanese probe landed a new observation robot on an asteroid on Wednesday as it pursues a mission to shed light on the origins of the solar system. The French-German Mobile Asteroid Surface Scout, or MASCOT, launched from the Hayabusa2 probe, landed safely on Ryugu and was in contact with its team, the lander's official Twitter account said. "And then I found myself in a place like no place on Earth. A land full of wonder, mystery and danger!," the @MASCOT2018 account tweeted. "I landed on asteroid Ryugu!" MASCOT is expected to collect a wide range of data on the asteroid, some 300 million kilometres (190 million miles) from Earth. "It is hugely significant to take data from the surface of an asteroid, we have high expectations for the scientific data," Hayabusa2 mission manager Makoto Yoshikawa at the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) told a briefing before the landing. The 10-kilogram (22-pound) box-shaped MASCOT is loaded with sensors. It can take images at multiple wavelengths, investigate minerals with a microscope, gauge surface temperatures and measure magnetic fields. MASCOT's launch comes 10 days after the Hayabusa2 dropped a pair of MINERVA-II micro-rovers on the Ryugu asteroid. It was the first time that moving, robotic observation devices have been successfully landed on an asteroid. - Solar system origins - The rovers will take advantage of Ryugu's low gravity to jump around on the surface -- travelling as far as 15 metres (49 feet) and staying above the surface for as long as 15 minutes -- to survey the asteroid's physical features with cameras and sensors. Unlike those machines, MASCOT will be largely immobile -- it will "jump" just once on its mission, and it can turn on its sides. And while the rovers will spend several months on the asteroid, the MASCOT has a maximum battery life of just 16 hours, and will transmit the data it collects to the Hayabusa2 before running out of juice. Story continues The Hayabusa2 is scheduled later this month to deploy an "impactor" that will explode above the asteroid, shooting a two-kilo copper object into it to blast a small crater on the surface. The probe will then hover over the artificial crater and collect samples using an extended arm. The samples of "fresh" materials, unexposed to millennia of wind and radiation, could help answer some fundamental questions about life and the universe, including whether elements from space helped give rise to life on Earth. Part of MASCOT's mission is to collect data that will help determine where the crater should be created. Hayabusa2, about the size of a large fridge and equipped with solar panels, is the successor to JAXA's first asteroid explorer, Hayabusa -- Japanese for falcon. That probe returned from a smaller, potato-shaped, asteroid in 2010 with dust samples despite various setbacks during an epic seven-year odyssey and was hailed as a scientific triumph. The Hayabusa2 mission, which costs around 30 billion yen ($260 million), was launched in December 2014 and will return to Earth with its samples in 2020. Washington (AFP) - In just three years, electronic cigarette maker JUUL has come to dominate the American market with its vaping devices that look like thumb drives, a business success that has brought a public health dilemma for authorities in the US, and elsewhere. On the one hand, e-cigarettes expose users to significantly lower levels of potentially toxic substances, except for nicotine, the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine said this year. Converting conventional cigarette smokers to vaping would therefore reduce the number of cancer cases. At the same time, numerous parents and high schools say teenagers are using JUUL, raising fears that a new generation is being exposed to nicotine, which is addictive but not cancerous. The US Food and Drug Administration has denounced "an epidemic of regular nicotine use among teens," and confirmed to AFP that its agents made a surprise inspection Friday of JUUL's San Francisco headquarters, seizing more than a thousand pages of documents on its marketing practices. The startup wasn't the first on the market, but it quickly dethroned tobacco giants, including British American Tobacco, which markets e-cigarettes using a different technology. JUUL has soared from a two percent market share in 2016 to 29 percent in December 2017, according to data published Tuesday in JAMA, the Journal of the American Medical Association. By September of this year, JUUL had reached almost 73 percent of the market, according to Nielsen data provided to AFP by JUUL. The e-cigarette market remains a fraction of overall tobacco sales but is growing fast. "Like many Silicon Valley technology startups, our growth is the result of a superior product disrupting an archaic industry -- in this case, one whose products are the number one cause of preventable death," JUUL told AFP in a statement. It added that the company "has helped more than one million Americans switch from cigarettes." Story continues CEO Kevin Burns said the company is cooperating with the FDA to "keep JUUL out of the hands of young people," and has turned over 50,000 pages of documents to the federal health regulator since April. JUUL is also available in Britain, Canada and Israel, although the latter country has forbidden sale of the strongest doses of nicotine. Others, including Australia and Japan, have limited sales of the product to medical use only. - 'No big deal' - JUUL costs around $20 for the device and $30 for four refills, each containing the equivalent in nicotine of a packet of cigarettes. They are available in a range of flavors from "Virginia tobacco" to creme brulee and mango. The company states that JUUL is not appropriate or intended for youth, but in well-off schools the product has an image of something innocent. "JUUL is no big deal," said a student at an upscale suburban Washington high school. The number of high and middle school students who vape increased between 2011 and 2017, according to the latest national survey on tobacco and youth, although the number of smokers fell at the same time. But the market is evolving very quickly and the central question is whether tobacco consumption, by vaping device or cigarette, rose among youth in 2018. FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb suggested in September that the answer is "yes" when he said: "None of the other metrics that we track when it comes to kids and tobacco are moving in a favorable direction. "Not the number of kids using traditional cigarettes, or cigars or chewing tobacco." He warned of an "epidemic" of vaping among the youth and said regulators are considering an immediate ban on flavored e-cigarettes. The FDA prohibited e-cigarette sales to minors in 2016, meaning they cannot be sold to people under 18. In some states, buyers must be 21. JUUL has ceased its marketing on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and forbids on its website the sale to anyone under age 21. Buyers must provide a Social Security number or upload another form of identification. Nonetheless, the company remains in the sights of Matthew Myers, president of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. "By the time they pulled the social media campaign, JUUL already had become the dominant product in high schools across the country," he said. Myers recognized that the product is, for now, popular only among well-off youth, but warns that manufacturers are working on making e-cigarettes cheaper. "And as soon as that happens, then the risk you run is it filters down," he said. His organization wants a complete prohibition on online sales, as is effectively the case for cigarettes. Myers -- along with the entire vaping sector and health professionals -- is now waiting to see how far the administration will go in the next few months. No one is entitled to be on the United States Supreme Court, Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) declared on Friday, the day after the hearing over Christine Blasey Fords allegation of sexual assault against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Kavanaugh may have forgotten that. Throughout his stormy testimony in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee a job interview of sorts for the open seat on the high court Kavanaugh wasnt just interested in trying to clear his name. He wanted the world to know that he is mad because he is not getting what he believes should be his. But what he, and many other powerful men, might be finding out is that they are not owed money and fame. No one is due a prestigious job. And most especially not if they stand accused of mistreating people. During his petulant performance on Thursday, Kavanaugh enumerated his lifetime of high-profile public service. He reminded the committee that over his 26-year career, he has served in many high-profile and sensitive government positions. Kavanaughs pedigree starts with a family who could send him to Georgetown Preparatory School and extends to Yale where he said he gained admission by busting my tail but where he was also a legacy admission. He clerked for Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy, worked in the George W. Bush White House, and took his current place on the D.C. Circuit which he made sure the committee knew is often referred to as the second-most-important court in the country and where he said he handled some of the most significant and sensitive cases. These are the trappings of his privilege, and also what he sees as his ticket to the next level of prestige. Kavanaugh claimed that Democrats surfaced Blasey and other womens allegations because they couldnt take me out on the merits. On the merits, he is sure, he is owed this honor. Kavanaugh wasnt just interested in trying to clear his name. He wanted the world to know that he is mad because he is not getting what he believes should be his. Story continues What Kavanaugh has at stake is a very rare and illustrious promotion to a lifetime appointment on the highest court in the country. If his nomination fails, he goes back to being a judge on the countrys second-most powerful court. Yet this, he wants us to believe, is the same as annihilation. He argued that the delay in his confirmation is meant to blow me up and take me down. If the mere allegation, the mere assertion of an allegation is enough to destroy a persons life and career, Kavanaugh told the committee, we will have abandoned the basic principles of fairness and due process that define our legal system and our country. This is at the heart of Kavanaughs raw fury. Defenses of due process aside this is not a trial but, again, a job interview he also feels he is entitled to this seat. Such power, such prestige, is his birthright as a white man. Not getting what he wants is the same as losing his very life. It doesnt matter that three women have publicly accused him of sexual assault and misconduct. When has that ever gotten in a mans way? Hes far from alone. "What Kavanaugh, and many other powerful men, might be finding out is that they are not owed money and fame." (POOL New/Reuters) In a self-indulgent essay in Harpers Magazine, John Hockenberry, the former public radio host whom multiple women accused of sexual harassment, recently wrote he had been given a life sentence of unemployment without possibility of furlough after he was let go. Is my life a reasonable price exacted in the pursuit of justice? he queried. Former New York Review of Books editor Ian Buruma published a similar essay by former Canadian radio host Jian Ghomeshi, whom multiple women have accused of physically and sexually abusing them. Buruma then defended the essay by arguing Ghomeshi had suffered finding your life ruined. Actor Norm Macdonald recently lamented that Louis C.K., who has been accused of exposing himself to women without their consent, and Roseanne Barr, who tweeted racist things about former White House adviser Valerie Jarrett, had seen all their work in their entire life being wiped out in a single day. (Never mind that Louis C.K. has already staged a comeback.) As Trump put it in a February tweet, There is no recovery for someone falsely accused life and career are gone. By claiming that being outed by Me Too and losing their careers is tantamount to being locked in jail or losing their actual lives, these men are also saying that the accusations have unfairly robbed them of what they have a right to: fame, power, influence and loads of money. Hockenberry and Ghomeshi still found homes for their writing in two of the countrys most prestigious magazines. Louis C.K. earned $52 million last year and is reportedly worth tens of millions of dollars, even as his latest movie was canceled. And yet, finding that they may no longer be welcome in the halls of power, no longer lifted higher and higher among those ranks, is comparable to incarceration or death. Finding that they may no longer be welcome in the halls of power, no longer lifted higher and higher among those ranks, is comparable to incarceration or death. Despite what white men may have been led to think for centuries, they dont have a birthright to positions of power. Alleged abusers like Kavanaugh may finally be facing a reality that has been far too slow to come: their privilege their gender, race, class and pristine credentials never should have, and perhaps someday wont, entitle them to power they havent earned. Its not just that these men dont deserve to be handed even more control, even more influence, even more plaudits especially when there is no sign they have done anything to reform themselves or make amends with the people they hurt. Its also that there are scores, hundreds, heaps of people who are talented and qualified and, importantly, havent abused anyone, who could occupy these positions instead. There is absolutely no way the Brett Kavanaughs of the world are the only available people who could adequately fill these roles. We do not suffer from a dearth of talent. We suffer from overlooking talent in favor of privileged men, some of whom have done things that disqualify them. White men have rocketed to the top of the workplace and the world stage for virtually all of history, some of them deserving, some leapfrogging over others who may have been more deserving. But there is no reason the men being called out as abusive harassers who treat women like objects and playthings should keep plowing forward. Its only right that their comeuppance includes stepping aside to let the qualified, nonabusive people through. We do not suffer from a dearth of talent. We suffer from overlooking talent in favor of privileged men, some of whom have done things that disqualify them. Especially when we know this abusive behavior is partly what keeps talented people hidden in the shadows. While Blasey is a well-respected, well-paid psychology professor, she has also detailed the toll Kavanaughs alleged assault took on her life, and we dont know what professional ramifications she may have suffered. Experiencing sexual harassment of the kind Hockenberry, Gomeshi, Louis C.K., and dozens and dozens of others are accused of inflicting on people makes many victims tune out and even drop out of certain careers. There are qualified people who dont abuse others who can step into the void created when exposed harassers and assaulters are no longer promoted or allowed to remain in their roles. Thats how a functioning job market should work: Decent and talented people should rise, and people who damaged others along their career path should fade away. Its not exactly the world weve lived in up until now. But its one that we are, perhaps, slowly entering. So far, President Donald Trump and Senate Republicans dont seem deterred from putting Kavanaugh on the court. But that doesnt mean Kavanaugh has proven himself worthy of what he may very well get. Bryce Covert is an independent journalist writing about the economy. She is a contributing op-ed writer at The New York Times and a contributing writer at The Nation. Almaty (Kazakhstan) (AFP) - When he looks back on his youth in China's far-west Xinjiang region, Akikat Kaliolla, an ethnic Kazakh, recalls the place's natural beauty and the big, colourful weddings typical of his majority-Muslim community. But now Emin County where he grew up is a sealed-off pocket in a region experiencing a security crackdown against what Beijing calls separatist elements. Over a million people are allegedly being held in a secretive network of extra-judicial, political re-education centres, according to a United Nations panel of experts. In an interview with AFP in Kazakhstan, Kaliolla, a 34-year-old national, said this year he'd lost contact with his mother, father and two younger brothers, who he believes were interned in one of the camps. "What they are doing to people there, especially to my parents, is illegal," the professional musician said, during the interview in Kazakhstan's largest city, Almaty. "They are not livestock but people with rights. Both of my parents are elderly and in ill health." About 1.5 million ethnic Kazakhs live in Xinjiang, a region that borders Central Asia and has long been home to ethnic tensions. They had until recently avoided the kind of state repression of which the mostly Muslim Uighurs, who make up the region's demographic majority, have long complained. But Kaliolla is just one of many to have been separated from relatives across the border, as the Chinese authorities now train their sights on the ethnic Kazakhs. He said that he knows of "around a hundred people" either interned in the camps or with relatives there. "Lots of them are the same people I watched get married," he added. His only contact with the missing family members in over six months was in August, when his brother got in touch at the request of Xinjiang authorities, he said. He demanded that Kaliolla stop "speaking out imprudently" about their situation, as this would only bring them harm, he explained. Story continues - Advances in surveillance - A report by Human Rights Watch on political repressions in Xinjiang said rights violations in the nominally autonomous region "are of a scope and scale not seen in China since the 1966-1976 Cultural Revolution." What has changed since that time, according to the report released in September, are advances in surveillance techniques and bio-data collection that are being practised systematically on largely Muslim minorities. In August, Beijing described as "completely untrue" the claim by a United Nations human rights panel that over a million ethnic Uighurs and other ethnic minorities had been placed in re-education camps. Kaliolla, who moved to Kazakhstan after meeting his future wife, a citizen, at a music school in Xinjiang, said his family was targeted because his father spoke out against injustices perpetrated by police in Emin County. "My father was a legal counsellor there. When the government began putting more and more pressure on the Kazakh people, he wrote an appeal to the central authorities in Beijing," he told AFP. - 'Help us, please' Unlike Uighurs, many of whom say they face cultural and religious repression, Kazakhs had long moved freely between China and their historic homeland. That freedom disappeared after hardline official Chen Quanguo, known for his control measures in Tibet, became the Xinjiang Communist Party chief in 2016. China has pointed to a series of attacks in Xinjiang by suspected Islamist radicals in recent years as justification for the clampdown. With concerns growing over the rights of the region's ethnic minorities, neighbouring Kazakhstan has inadvertently become the focus for those speaking out. Kazakhstan officials themselves have steadfastly refused to refer specifically to the camps, even after voicing concern over the situation. But Kazakh nationals with relatives missing in Xinjiang have been more forthright, sharing stories of despair and separation at press conferences in Almaty. "Eight months and no contact! Help us, please!" exclaimed one woman, Gaukhar Kurmanaliyeva, to reporters in August. Kurmanaliyeva spoke of how her male cousin, a Kazakh citizen, was snatched by Chinese police at a shopping area at the border. Her account was followed by that of Muratkhan Kasengazy, who said his wife -- another Kazakh passport holder -- had been held in China since December 2017 after going there for medical treatment. In recent months, Kazakhstan risked China's wrath by refusing to deport an ethnic Kazakh woman of Chinese citizenship, who had confessed to crossing the border illegally to join her husband and children. The woman, Sayragul Sauytbay, became an international media sensation after testifying in a court hearing that she had been forced by Beijing to work in a re-education camp, where, she said, 2,500 ethnic Kazakhs were interned. - Rare happy endings - Kazakh Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov said in August that his country was in dialogue with Beijing over nearly 700 cases of Kazakhs unable to leave China. In some instances, the approach appears to have borne fruit. Guzalnur Jeniskazy went to China to visit relatives in 2016, leaving her four-month-old daughter at home for what was meant to be a short trip. But she ended up spending several months under house arrest and even a short stint in detention after losing her Kazakh passport, she told AFP correspondents, who witnessed her emotional family reunion at an Almaty bus station in July. "Thanks to the Kazakh consulate (in Urumqi, Xinjiang) I was freed," she said, holding her daughter tightly pressed to her. Such happy endings seem a rarity, however. Dependent on China's economic largesse and seeking a pivotal role in its trillion-dollar trade and infrastructure drive, the oil-rich Central Asian country is poorly placed to make demands, analysts say. "Kazakhstan's leverage over China is miserly," Aidos Sarym, an Almaty-based political scientist, told AFP. "If China does not bend to the European Union and the United States, what can we say of Kazakhstan?" Bad news, Laneway fam. The annual music festival will be omitting Singapore for its tour next year, making 2019 the first time its skipping our shores since its launch here at Fort Canning Park in 2011. If you desperately have to have your dose of the St Jeromes Laneway Festival, its still making pitstops at Adelaide, Brisbane, Fremantle, Melbourne, and Sydney in Australia, as well as Auckland in New Zealand next January and February. Oh, and it may return to Singapore in the later months of 2019. Just maybe. (Fingers crossed.) According to Laneway Festival Singapores Facebook and Instagram pages, which were just updated this morning, the event has been scrapped in January next year because of unavoidable logistical and programming complexities. Thank you so much to everyone for your support of Laneway Singapore over the past years, the statement said. We know a lot of people may be disappointed but we hope youre also as excited about the future as we are. Understandably, music fans were unhappy with the announcement. But on the (sort of) bright side, plans are being made for it to return later in the year, so keep tabs on Laneways social media accounts for updates. In the meantime, reminisce the festival of years past. The post Laneway Singapore will not be happening in January 2019; may return later in the year appeared first on Coconuts. Washington (AFP) - Lawyers for two of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh's accusers said Tuesday that the FBI is not interviewing witnesses and following leads that would support their accusations of sexual abuse. Attorneys for Christine Blasey Ford said in a letter to the Federal Bureau of Investigation that agents have yet to contact her about her allegation that a drunken Kavanaugh groped her and tried to take her clothes off in 1982 when they were high school students. Controversy surrounding the Kavanaugh nomination ahead of November congressional elections -- in which Republicans will battle to keep control of Congress -- is threatening to derail Trump's push to get a conservative-minded majority on the top court ahead of the vote. The lawyers, Michael Bromwich and Debra Katz, also questioned an apparent FBI decision not to interview Kavanaugh, and expressed concern that the agency was not following up on witnesses and evidence they identified for the FBI. "Despite these efforts, we have received no response from anyone involved in this investigation, and no response to our offer for Dr Ford to be interviewed," they said in a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray and General Counsel Dana Boente. In a separate statement on Twitter, John Clune, who represents another accuser, Deborah Ramirez, said FBI agents interviewed her on Sunday and accepted a list of more than 20 witnesses who can support her allegations. But he said they are not following up at all on Ramirez's account that Kavanaugh thrust his genitals in her face, forcing her to touch them without her consent, during an alcohol-fuelled party when they were students at Yale University in the mid-1980s. "Although we do not know the status of the investigation, we are not aware of the FBI affirmatively reaching out to any of those witnesses," Clune said in a tweeted statement. "Though we appreciated the agents who responded on Sunday, we have great concern that the FBI is not conducting -- or not being permitted to conduct --a serious investigation." Story continues The statement came amid questions over how much latitude President Donald Trump has allowed the FBI in its investigation into three women's allegations of sexual misconduct and heavy drinking by Kavanaugh in the 1980s. Trump on Friday ordered the FBI to follow up the allegations in less than a week, before the Senate is scheduled to vote on Kavanaugh's joining the Supreme Court. Kavanaugh has vigorously denied the women's allegations. On Monday Trump said he had told the FBI to "do what they have to do to get to the answer," but that he would also like it to go quickly. Monrovia (AFP) - Liberia's central bank said Wednesday that $100 million US has been safely deposited in the West African country's reserves, dismissing rampant rumours that container-loads of banknotes had disappeared. "The Central Bank of Liberia wants to clarify to the general public and our partners in progress that there is no $16 billion (Liberian, 89 million euros, $102 million) missing, as has been erroneously reported in the media," CEO Nathaniel Patray said in a statement. The CBL has no records showing that the money printed under its authority has not yet been delivered in its vaults," the bank said in a statement. Hundreds of Liberians took to the streets of the capital Monrovia on Monday to demonstrate over the alleged disappearance of the newly printed bills. The cash officially destined for the CBL at an unspecified time between last November and August this year had allegedly vanished without trace. Information Minister Lenn Eugene Nagbe told AFP last week the government would "leave no stone unturned" to find the cash as protesters blamed the authorities for what they termed "mass looting". President George Weah, who has vowed to clamp down on corruption, said on Saturday he would not rest until the issue was resolved. Yahoo News photo illustration; photos: AP, Getty Democrats in Congress finally got the FBI investigation into Brett Kavanaughs past for which theyve been loudly clamoring these past few weeks, thanks to the affecting testimony from his chief accuser and the dramatic turnabout of a principled Republican senator. And President Trump has actually managed to put aside his antipathy for federal law enforcement long enough to let the investigation play out, deferring to Senate Republicans generally and assuring the FBI, through his lawyer, that it can expand the inquiry however it sees fit. Thats more than I would have expected. So youd think that maybe, just this one time, we could all actually do something critical for the country mainly to get some clarity on all the charges and countercharges that were flying around the Senate hearing room last week, with nothing less than a Supreme Court seat hanging in the balance without the whole thing devolving into some kind of trivial, self-abasing public circus. Youd be wrong. Because while the FBI is doing what its supposed to do, which is to determine whether Kavanaugh blatantly misled the Judiciary Committee on some key facts, Democrats and a lathered-up news media have decided that the truest test of Kavanaughs character is whether anyone anywhere ever saw him drunk, or whether he ever acted like a full-on idiot in college. In case youre coming late to this space, let me just pause here to say that this is the third time in as many weeks that Ive written about Kavanaughs nomination. I already made the point that his lack of reflection and nuance when it came to all of this made him a dubious candidate for the court, and that Republicans could find someone better. Nothing I saw at his combative appearance before the Judiciary Committee led me to think otherwise. I found Kavanaughs evident nostalgia for his prep school days to be a little cloying and creepy in a middle-aged man. But thats an entirely separate matter from whether hes confirmable or not, and so is most of the other stuff that suddenly qualifies as news about Kavanaughs youth. Story continues Seriously, why do we care if some guy who knew Kavanaugh in his freshman year claims he drank too much and sometimes got mean? And how does it matter to anyone if Kavanaugh got into a bar fight in 1985 and threw ice at a guy, or if he and his high school buddies once trashed a beach house? I stole a street sign once in high school. It didnt make me a car thief. Yes, I understand, Kavanaugh told the Judiciary Committee he wasnt a crazy party animal and never blacked out. So I guess the argument is that if he would shade the truth about his teenage drinking, then he would lie about anything up to and including sexual assault. But just because he might doesnt mean he did. And we also have to at least acknowledge the fact that an awful lot of Kavanaughs Yale classmates are liberals who would love to deal a mortal blow to his nomination, and its really not fair that any one of them can now get themselves on CNN to spout sinister recollections of his freshman persona. Whats happening this week is that the controversy around Kavanaughs confirmation ordeal is starting to feel less like an extension of the #MeToo moment and more like the John Tower hearings of 1989. Tower, a former senator, was President George H.W. Bushs pick for defense secretary, but his nomination got swept up in allegations of drinking and womanizing a vortex of innuendo propelled largely by the confluence of Democrats looking for a scalp and conservatives who had never forgiven him for backing Gerald Ford over Ronald Reagan in 1976. Tower became the first Cabinet nominee from a new president ever voted down by the Senate and an enduring symbol of how ugly and personally ruinous our politics had suddenly become. Kavanaugh doesnt deserve that kind of martyrdom. He stands accused by a credible witness on the public record of having attacked and humiliated her as a young man, and if its even partly true, then hes chillingly remorseless about it. If he knows hes lying, or even if he doesnt know for a fact that it didnt happen, then hes allowing this woman, Christine Blasey Ford, to be mocked and degraded all over again, and that would be inexcusable. But that and not his weekly beer intake, or his having gotten tossed from a bar, or even his obnoxious behavior toward senators on the committee at last weeks hearing is the thing that would truly keep him from serving. Thats the thing that will cost him critical Republican votes. Were likely never going to know with certainty whether Kavanaugh did what his accusers say he did. But a few things are both knowable and relevant, and hopefully the FBI is more focused on them than grandstanding Democrats and cable hosts are. First, theres this question of what Mark Judge, Kavanaughs high school buddy and later a conservative gadfly, told agents when they spoke to him Tuesday. Ford puts Judge in the room when the assault took place, which would be an absolutely crazy thing to do if she were lying about what she recalled. Judge has said nothing publicly beyond denying that the attack took place. If he was any more equivocal than that with the FBI agents, even just to allow that a party like the one she describes might have taken place, then its much harder to dismiss her story. Second, theres the case of Chris Garrett, whom Kavanaugh calls Squi, for reasons we probably dont want to know. Garrett was all over Kavanaughs handwritten calendars from that summer, and Ford told the committee something very significant that she had dated Garrett for a while. Youd have to assume the FBI knocked on Garretts door. And if Garrett admitted to having dated Ford that summer, then Kavanaugh is almost certainly dissembling when he says he doesnt remember socializing with her. It would cast fatal doubt on everything else he says. These questions go right to the heart of Kavanaughs integrity and his fitness to serve. But by flying off in all directions to air 35-year-old stories about whether Kavanaugh partied too much or threw an occasional punch, hyperventilating critics in the press and the opposition party do something worse than trivialize the process. They risk making Trump look right about their motives, and Kavanaugh look like a man deserving of sympathy. They make it appear for all the world that the resistance to Kavanaughs nomination is more about destroying his reputation than it is about making sure we dont put a liar or, worse yet, a sexual aggressor on the most important court in the country for the rest of his life. For Democrats, that kind of overreach is a pretty good way to squander what should be a historic advantage heading into the midterm elections. And for a besieged media, hysterical reporting of college bar fights would seem like a pretty good way to waste whatever credibility weve earned. Lets let the FBI do its job this week. And while were at it, lets consider what it means to do ours. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said on Tuesday that each U.S. senator would get a copy of the FBI report on sexual misconduct allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. McConnell repeated that he expected a vote this week in the full Senate on President Donald Trump's nominee, a conservative federal appeals court judge. "What I can tell you with certainty is we'll have an FBI report this week and we'll have a vote this week," McConnell told reporters at the Capitol. He would not elaborate on whether the vote would be procedural or a vote to confirm Kavanaugh but said he would fight any Democratic attempts to delay it. The top Senate Democrat, Chuck Schumer, said Democrats would ask only for adequate time to review results of the FBI report before they vote. He dismissed accusations that Democrats were trying to delay the vote, noting that it was moderate Republicans in the Senate who slowed the Kavanaugh confirmation process in the past week. "The minority has no power to delay, none," he said. (Reporting by Richard Cowan and Doina Chiacu; Editing by Leslie Adler and Peter Cooney) Meghan Markle For an official visit to Sussex with Prince Harry on Oct. 3, 2018, in Chichester, U.K., the Duchess of Sussex wore a blouse from & Other Stories and a Hugo Boss skirt, and carried the Gabriela Hearst Demi emerald satin bag. (Photo: Getty images) Yahoo Lifestyle may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. On Tuesday, Meghan Markle stepped out with her husband, Prince Harry, for the couples first official joint visit to Sussex wearing a sophisticated dark green ensemble, with one accessory standing out from the rest: a tiny emerald satin handbag. Designed by Gabriela Hearst and priced at $1,995, the bag is not easy on the wallet, but its gorgeous emerald shade and petite structure has made it one of the most desirable bags among Hollywoods elite, earning fans like Oprah Winfrey, Mandy Moore, Glenn Close, Diane Lane, Gabrielle Union, Lady Gaga, Brie Larson, and now Markle. But how exactly did Hearsts bag end up on the arm of the Duchess of Sussex? In fall 2015, Hearst first established her eponymous label. She is currently based in New York but was born in Uruguay, where she grew up on her familys ranch, surrounded by cattle and sheep. This is where Hearst gained an appreciation for her familys heritage and learned to respect slow processes and, in turn, slow design. It is also the place that inspired Hearsts prominent use of organic merino wool, which her familys ranch produces, in her collections. Hearst has been described as a womans designer by the CFDA. She has a remarkable sense of what women want to wear and how they want to feel in clothing. Hearsts designs are made with the highest craftsmanship using the finest material. Her tailored suits, graphic maxi dresses, midi skirts, and cozy knits make women feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable. Its no surprise, then, that some of Hearsts biggest fans include equally strong, confident women like Oprah Winfrey and Meghan Markle. The designers first major breakout was when she launched her Nina bag in 2016, named after artist and activist Nina Simone. The bag was originally available only by email, rather than being sold online. I did a limited edition of 20 bags. I didnt do it for commerce; I just wanted to launch it, she told Vogue. And I gave them to friends of mine and to women I work with. The strategy turned out be a big success. The bag quickly accumulated a waitlist of 100 people that grew to more than 1,500 people in 2017. Story continues Compared with the smaller Demi bag that Meghan carried, the Nina bag is the full-sized original. Now, in 2018, Hearst has expanded her label to include 16 different bag styles, an entire ready-to-wear collection, and a full-fledged e-commerce website. Her rise to success was reaffirmed by the fashion industry when she won the 2016 International Woolmark Prize, and in 2018 she received a prestigious nomination from the CFDA for Womenswear Designer of the Year. If you love Meghan Markles Gabriela Hearst Demi satin bag, youre in luck. For two weeks only, you can purchase the bag on net-a-porter.com. However, if you, like many of us, cant afford the extravagant $1,995 price, we rounded up 13 similar pint-sized ladylike bags to satisfy your fashion appetite. Click ahead to shop them now. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Chanel stole this look from every working woman How a purple backpack designed by Serena Williams will support domestic violence victims Cargo pants are making a big comeback thanks to Meghan Markles wedding dress designer Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. For Sen. Jeff Flake, the viral scene in which two enraged women confronted him on an elevator over experiences of sexual misconduct was the culmination of chance and not getting down the hallway quite fast enough. For one of the women who approached him, the moment was decades in the making. Ana Maria Archila, 39, met Maria Gallagher in the atrium of a Senate office building for the first time on Friday morning. Archila, a co-executive director of the Center for Popular Democracy, had experience dealing with legislators. Maria Gallagher did not. Driven together by their shared anger over a sexual assault allegation against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, the two decided to join forces and wait outside of Flakes office together. Shortly after releasing a statement indicating he would vote yes on the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court, the Arizona Republican rushed from his office to the elevators. So did reporters, and so did Archila and Gallagher. The dramatic moment came a day after Christine Blasey Ford, a California psychology professor with two masters degrees and a doctorate, testified under oath in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee that Kavanaugh, as a teenager, held her down, put his hand over her mouth and tried to take off her clothes approximately 35 years ago. Archila used her body to block the elevators mechanized door from cutting off her conversation: On Monday, I stood in front of your office, she said, vigorously. I told the story of my sexual assault. Flake looked down for most of the encounter, unable or unwilling to stare the women in the eyes. I need to go. I need to go to the hearing, he said. Archila didnt budge. I told it because I recognized in Dr. Fords story that she is telling the truth, she said. What you are doing is allowing someone who actually violated a woman to sit on the Supreme Court. This is not tolerable. You have children in your family. Think about them. Story continues Within hours of the protest, Flake made his yes a conditional one. I will only be comfortable moving on the floor [when] the FBI has done more investigation than they have already, he said. It may not take them a week. I understand that some of these witnesses may not want to discuss anything further. But I think we owe them due diligence. For Archila, Fords telling of being violated by someone older than her hit too close to home. In an interview with TIME, Archila said she was molested by a boy ten years older than her, when she was just a five-year-old girl in daycare. It took about a decade for her to tell her mom. Her dad found out only when thousands of Americans did, in the heated exchange with Flake that aired on live television. I wanted to protect them from that pain, she said, discussing why she did not tell them sooner. That pain has affected how she raises her own kids, now 6 and 3. After becoming a mom, she found it hard to leave her children alone, scarred by what she said happened to her when she was about their age. I couldnt leave my child in daycare, she said through tears. Archila said she was never a huge fan of Kavanaugh. When President Donald Trump originally nominated him to succeed Justice Anthony Kennedy on the bench in July, Archila was worried his prior judicial record could be indicative of him ruling contrary to her views on issues like womens reproductive rights and immigration. Archila immigrated from Colombia well over a decade ago, and is now a U.S. citizen. When allegations of sexual misconduct were lodged against Kavanaugh, Archila said watching Kavanaughs confirmation process begin to play out procedurally signaled a deep reckoning for American politics but one that had been brewing for a long time. As the #MeToo movement swelled, so did her anger towards anyone who was complicit in allowing sexual assault to run rampant for so many years. What is most enraging is watching history repeat itself. Watching men sit there and cast doubt on the experience of women, cast doubt on the veracity of our work, she said. Its really a culture that, again and again, kind of prioritizes men over women. I think that is really where my rage comes from. She said it was difficult to relive her memories of being sexually violated some 34 years ago, but that it would have been far worse to ignore them. In that moment, the painful part wasnt my story, she said. The painful part was was our collective stories. How is it possible that we stare at the mirror of so much pain and still look away? It appears Archila and Gallaghers words had at least some effect on Flake, who is not running for re-election. In an interview with 60 Minutes on Sunday, Flake referenced the confrontation in explaining his push for an FBI investigation. I just knew that we couldnt move forward, that I couldnt move forward without hitting the pause button, he said. What I was seeing, experiencing, in an elevator and watching it in committee and just thinking, this is ripping our country apart. Archila had a train ticket back to New York City scheduled for about the same moment that she, Gallagher and Flake collided. I so clearly missed my train, she said, chuckling. But she said it was worth it. I think that Maria and I were there because others had been there, she said. If it had just been our two stories, we would not have had the same impact. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have had a busy day of engagements during their first official visit to Sussex, their county namesake. Their first port of call on Wednesday morning was in Chichester, where the couple greeted locals whod gathered to see them during a walkabout. Meghan wore a cream Armani coat with a dark green shirt from & Other Stories and a matching leather skirt by Hugo Boss. She was given an A-Z of Sussex by children from Westbourne House School, who asked her to come back and see them soon. Meghan looked chic in a dark green shirt by & Other Stories and a Hugo Boss skirt (PA) One pupil revealed to Harry that they were missing double Latin to come out and see him and Meghan. The Duke high-fived him and said: The fact that you got off double Latin because we are here. I think thats fantastic. He added : Although education is important! The royal couple started their day by visiting Edes House, where they were shown the rare Sussex copy of the American Declaration of Independence. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrive in Chicester on 3 October 2018 [Photo: Getty] The Sussex Declaration is one of only two contemporary handwritten ceremonial manuscript copies, the other being the signed copy housed in the National Archives in Washington D.C. Meghan and Harry then travelled along the coast to Bognor Regis where they officially opened the University of Chichesters Engineering and Digital Technology Park. In Brighton, Meghan and Harry arrived to huge cheers and stopped to chat with locals, who chanted their names, during their second walkabout, who chanted their names. Before heading into the Royal Pavilion, they were met by some very excited children from Queens Park School, who could barely contain their glee while chatting to royalty. Handshakes and high fives from Harry, as the children from Queens Park school meet the Duke and Duchess in #Brighton pic.twitter.com/HmzbjZTl9b Danielle Stacey (@daniellestacey1) October 3, 2018 The year 4 pupils, aged eight to nine, asked Meghan what her favourite subject at school was. The Duchess revealed it was maths. Story continues The inquisitive youngsters also asked Meghan, 37, how old she was but the Duchess didnt seem fazed by their questions and asked them to guess higher and lower. There were high fives and handshakes from Harry, who was asked if he knew what flossing was, before being given a demonstration. The Duke reportedly also gave them some words of wisdom, telling them not play Fortnite while theyre so young. After waving goodbye to the children, the Duke and Duchess were given a tour of the Royal Pavilion. The Duke and Duchess speaking to children from Queens Park School, in Brighton (PA) The iconic building dates back to the mid-1780s and was built by George, Prince of Wales, who later became the Prince Regent and then King George IV. The royal couple then met with people and staff at the Survivors Network, a charity that supports survivors of sexual violence and abuse in Sussex. Their final stop of the day was further east, in Peacehaven, where they sat down to chat with youngsters at the JOFF Youth Centre, to hear their strategic plans and priorities around mental health and emotional wellbeing. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for non-stop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. For Twitter updates, follow @YahooStyleUK. Read more from Yahoo Style UK: Meghans expensive Sussex outfit includes a 1695 limited edition bag Duchess of Cambridges first post-maternity leave outing Meghans half-sister Samantha apologies on air ON HER OWN: In the few hours since First Lady Melania Trump touched down at the Kotoka International Airport in Ghanas capital Tuesday morning, she hit the ground running. The first lady attended a red-carpeted welcoming ceremony, visited a hospital, joined the First Lady of Ghana Rebecca Akufo-Addo for a private tea and met with U.S. Embassy officials. At the start of a four-country tour, she appeared to be in high spirits, greeting the crowd with a broad smile and a wave before walking down the jetway, according to a press pool report. During the overnight flight, which included a stop for refueling in Cape Verde, a cheery first lady walked to the rear of the plane to chat with pool reporters off-the-record, according to a report. While her departure from Joint Base Andrews called for a caramel-colored suede trench coat from Vince, her arrival attire in Ghana was a rust-and-white, striped Celine shirt dress. The first lady, however, was not wearing a just-off-the-runway look from Celines new creative director Hedi Slimane, according to her stylist Herve Pierre. Slimane presented his first collection for the house in Paris a few days ago. Vince is a U.S.-owned contemporary sportswear label that was started in 2002 and Celine, a luxury French fashion house was started in 1946 and has been owned by LVMH since 1996. A performance of dancers and drummers greeted Trump, and schoolchildren waved Ghanian and American flags. Also in the crowd was USAID administrator Mark Green and Trumps hair stylist Mordechai Alvow. FLOTUS communications director Stephanie Grisham and chief of staff Lindsay Reynolds are also on the trip for the duration. At one point, Reynolds had to do double duty so to speak, carrying two handbags including a beige Hermes one. Before noon local time, the two first ladies visited the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, and interacted with 10 mothers who were in an outdoor seating area, bouncing babies on their laps and shielding them from the sun, according to the pool report. Trump helped to hand out teddy bears and Be Best-imprinted blankets that were donated by the White House. Started last May, Trumps Be Best initiative centers on childrens well-being. Story continues She looked on as a six-month-old baby was weighed in a sack hanging from a pulley, a common practice at the hospital. Trump and her host also visited infants in the hospitals newly constructed NICU wing. Later, during a private 30-minute tea at Jubilee House, Trump and Akufo-Addo exchanged gifts. FLOTUS offered a Chippendale tray etched with an image of the White House, and her host, in turn, offered a kente cloth, a Ghanian fabric with multicolored stripes. The two women met for the first time during the United Nations 73rd General Assembly last week. Trumps whistlestop arrival included a brief meeting with officials at the U.S. Embassy, before retiring for the day, according to a pool report. Related stories Melania Trump Embarks on Four-Nation Trip to Africa, En Route to Ghana Retailers React to Hedi's Celine Hedi Slimane Gives First Interview at Celine JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) Missouri is down to one clinic providing abortions Wednesday, after the only other clinic in the state that performs the procedure failed to adhere to new state requirements and its license expired. The Columbia clinic's abortion license expired Tuesday, Planned Parenthood Great Plains spokeswoman Emily Miller said. Federal appeals court judges also ruled last month that Missouri can enforce a requirement that doctors must have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals before they can perform abortions. The judges issued a mandate Monday for that rule to officially take effect. The Columbia Planned Parenthood clinic has been unable to secure physician privileges or find a doctor with those privileges after a panel of medical staff at University of Missouri Health Care voted to stop offering those privileges altogether in 2015 amid a Republican-led legislative investigation on abortion in the state. Miller said the clinic cancelled abortions scheduled for Wednesday in Columbia, which would have been the first since the mandate was issued. The clinic continues to provide other health care services. "We are unable to provide abortion services now, so we've been working with patients who were on the schedule for today for abortion appointments to let them know what their alternatives are," Miller said. Women seeking abortions can go to Planned Parenthood's St. Louis clinic which is now the only facility in Missouri where abortions can be performed or travel to neighboring states, she said. Planned Parenthood has argued in court filings that the additional distance women will need to travel to the clinic on the far eastern border of the state to receive abortions will be burdensome and could make the procedure inaccessible to some. Miller said they're hoping the state will issue another abortion license soon. Planned Parenthood attorneys also had asked U.S. Western District Court Judge Brian Wimes to temporarily exempt the Columbia clinic from the hospital privileges requirement before Wednesday. Wimes hasn't yet ruled on that request. Story continues If Wimes does decide to grant a temporary restraining order on the law, abortions could resume at the clinic if it also receives another license. Planned Parenthood affiliates with Missouri health centers filed the underlying lawsuit to block state requirements on admitting privileges and mandates that clinics meet hospital-like standards for outpatient surgery. The U.S. Supreme Court in 2016 struck down similar rules in Texas. The Missouri Attorney General's Office, which is defending the regulations, in court documents argued that the admitting privileges requirement "provides substantial benefits, such as ensuring that women have access to a treating physician, ensuring continuity of care, reducing the likelihood of unnecessary treatment, and providing women and the State with greater, more accurate information." Attorneys with the attorney general also wrote that the requirement "is strongly justified by Missouri-specific circumstances, such as the deeply troubling health-and-safety record of Missouri abortion facilities and their long, flagrant violation of statutory reporting requirements." The office cited a Sept. 26 health inspection that found the clinic was using equipment with tubing that contained "black mold and bodily fluid." Miller said Planned Parenthood takes issue with that description, and said the tubing has been replaced and other concerns raised in the Sept. 26 inspection have been addressed. U.S District Judge Howard Sachs in May 2017 issued a temporary restraining order to block the admitting privileges rule. But his action was undone in September by judges on the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, who argued Sachs didn't do enough to weigh the cost benefits of Missouri's rules and sent the case back to the lower court. The underlying challenge to the Missouri abortion regulations is still pending. ___ Follow Summer Ballentine on Twitter at: twitter.com/esballentine What does it look like when a deserving student gets a $100,000 scholarship from Beyonce and Jay-Z? Watch the video above and try not to tear up. Emily Garay and her friends from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade went to see the Carters in concert in September, and the night did not go as expected in the best way possible. Garays emotional reaction to winning the scholarship from BeyGood and the Shawn Carter Foundation is pure joy. The generous gift moves Garay one huge step closer to fulfilling her dream of becoming a police officer. Her future plans? To get a masters in criminology from Florida International University as well as a masters in marketing, she told Yahoo Lifestyle. High school senior Emily Garay is emotional after winning a $100K scholarship from Beyonce and Jay-Z. (Photo: BeyGood and the Shawn Carter Foundation) Before the huge gift from Bey and Jay, Garay and her parents, who are from Colombia and Nicaragua, were worried that they wouldnt have the means to pay for her college. My mom was thinking of working two jobs. My dad, he was just stressing, she told CBS Miami. The scholarship from the power couple, aka Garays angels, was the perfect surprise: As a Latina, its really hard to get opportunities like this, especially as a woman, and it meant the world to me, she told Yahoo Lifestyle. Jay-Z and Beyonce Knowles perform during the On the Run II tour. (Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Parkwood Entertainment) Beyonce and Jay-Z werent the only ones in a giving mood. Miamis own DJ Khaled matched the scholarship, giving 17-year-old Jonathon Burgos $100,000. Burgos plans to become an electrical engineer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Nominated by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, the two deserving students were selected based on their 3.0 (or better) grade point average, overall motivation, and future goals. Garay joined the club when she was 9 years old. They have taught me so many things that have been pivotal throughout my childhood, she said. Jonathon Burgos and Emily Garay, from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, were awarded $100K scholarships. (Photo: Courtesy BeyGood and the Shawn Carter Foundation) Bey and Jay have awarded $100,000 scholarships at each of the cities on their On the Run II tour, including San Diego and Pasadena, Calif.; New Orleans; Houston; and Vancouver, British Columbia. The tour wraps Oct. 4 in Seattle. Story continues Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Mbabane (eSwatini) (AFP) - At the main campus entrance, a large concrete sign welcomes students and visitors to "The University of..." followed by a blank space. After Swaziland changed its name earlier this year to eSwatini, the nine letters spelling out the old name of the country were removed from the university sign, and new letters have not yet arrived. "We are still waiting," said a security guard at the gate. On the other side of the road, Banele Syabonga, 25, contemplated his country's sudden change of name in April, which took many citizens by surprise. "I like the new name -- it is more African," Syabonga, who is unemployed, told AFP, standing outside Lucky's Hair Cut shop, a tin shack in Manzini, the second city of what is now known as eSwatini. "Swaziland was the British name. Now we have our own," he said, addressing one of the contentious debates about the new title. In April, King Mswati III -- one of the world's last absolute rulers -- marked 50 years since his country's independence from British colonial rule by announcing that it would now be known as eSwatini ("land of the Swazis"). The monarch's decision, taken without warning or consultation, revealed much about his autocratic rule and his country's history -- as well as posing a logistical challenge as the name change came into immediate effect. Six weeks after the king's pronouncement, the country's representative informed the United Nations headquarters in New York, and the UN soon adopted the new nomenclature. Regional bodies, including the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), have also quickly changed to eSwatini -- though they sometimes swap between names in the same statement. The adjustment has taken some getting used to inside eSwatini, a landlocked nation of just 1.3 million residents between South Africa and Mozambique. Senior Swazi officials speaking to AFP during a visit last week repeatedly had to stop and correct themselves mid-sentence. Story continues It is "Swaziland" on the banknotes, but the central bank now uses "eSwatini", while police stations are gradually changing their signs. - 'Name is your identity' - Unlike many countries, such as Zimbabwe -- called Southern Rhodesia under British rule -- Swaziland did not change its name when it became independent in 1968. "African countries on getting independence reverted to their ancient names before they were colonised," the king said when he announced the change, having previously complained that Swaziland was often confused with Switzerland. But the king's claim that eSwatini was Swaziland's old "authentic" name is fiercely disputed. "There is disagreement over the pre-colonial name -- many say it was actually 'Ngwane'," Thulani Maseko, an activist and lawyer who is challenging the name change in court, told AFP in the capital Mbabane. Ngwane was an ancient name for the Swazi people who settled in the south of the country under King Ngwane III, who ruled in the 18th century. Swaziland takes its name from King Mswati II, who ruled between 1840 and 1868. The area came under joint British and Boer rule in 1894 before becoming a British territory in 1907. "The name of your country is your identity, so it should not be changed by just one person issuing a royal command," Maseko said. "It tells you that the king does not consult with the people when he makes fundamental decisions." Maseko spent 15 months in jail in 2014-15 for contempt of court after writing about lack of judicial independence, and he accepts that his legal battle over his country's name faces tough odds. But he wants to take a stand against the king's all-encompassing authority. The country held elections last month in a vote that was dismissed as a farce by critics because the constitution grants the king complete control over parliament and all branches of the state. The country is impoverished -- in sharp contrast to the king's lavish lifestyle -- and the name change is estimated to cost the government up to $6 million. Percy Simelane, the government spokesman, declined to comment to AFP, saying the court case made the matter sub-judice. The name "eSwatini" did not come out of the blue. It is used in the local siSwati language and has appeared for years as the country's sub-title on national passports. But for souvenir seller Thoko Nkambule, 50, it has been an unwelcome disruption to business. She offers beaded necklaces, leather bracelets and carved wooden fridge magnets all skillfully spelling out "Swaziland" or now increasingly "eSwatini". "We are changing step by step," she said. "Some buyers want the old name, some want the new name. Personally, I prefer the old one." WASHINGTON (AP) Special counsel Robert Mueller is trimming more attorneys from his office, another sign his team of prosecutors is winding down parts of their investigation into potential ties between Russia and President Donald Trump's campaign. Two prosecutors detailed to the Russia investigation for the past year are returning to their duties in other parts of the Justice Department. They join two other attorneys who left the team over the summer. The departures, confirmed by Mueller's office Tuesday, are the latest indication that the special counsel is wrapping up at least some pieces of an investigation that has shadowed Trump's presidency from the outset. But it's only a limited view into the tight-lipped Mueller's timetable or possible endgame. Critical investigative strands still remain, such as an active grand jury probe of longtime Trump associate Roger Stone and ongoing negotiations over an interview with Trump. Mueller spokesman Peter Carr said prosecutor Brandon Van Grack has already returned to the Justice Department's national security division but will continue to be involved in cases he was assigned to. That includes the investigation into former White House national security adviser Michael Flynn, who is scheduled to be sentenced in December. Video: New Hacking Case Referred to Robert Mueller Investigation For more news videos visit Yahoo View. Prosecutor Kyle Freeny will end her detail to the special counsel later this month and will return to her position in the Justice Department's money laundering section, Carr said. Van Grack and Freeny were on the teams prosecuting Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort. Besides the grand jury inquiry into Stone, other elements of the Mueller investigation remain active, including inquiries into whether the president took action to obstruct the probe and the central unresolved question of whether the Trump campaign coordinated with Russia during the 2016 election. Story continues But after a series of indictments and high-profile plea deals with Trump associates in recent months, Mueller's shown signs of narrowing his focus, referring cases to other offices of the Justice Department, letting other U.S. attorneys largely take over cases he brought and allowing prosecutors to leave his team without replacement. Prosecutors in Manhattan, for instance, secured a guilty plea in August from Trump's former personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, a case referred by Mueller. The U.S. attorney's office in Washington has been assigned to the special counsel's case against 13 Russians charged in a hidden but powerful social media effort to sway American public opinion. That same office also prosecuted W. Samuel Patten, who pleaded guilty to acting as an unregistered foreign agent in a case also referred by Mueller's office. Other lawyers who left the Mueller team earlier this year include computer crimes prosecutor Ryan Dickey, who worked cases against a Russian social media troll farm and 12 Russian intelligence officers accused of hacking Democratic groups during the campaign, and Brian Richardson. Richardson was part of a team that prosecuted former Skadden Arps attorney Alex van der Zwaan for lying to the FBI while they were investigating Manafort and others involved in his Ukrainian work. All told, Mueller's team has obtained six guilty pleas, including from four Trump campaign advisers, and a jury conviction. He has pending indictments against 26 others and three Russian companies. ___ Follow Eric Tucker and Chad Day on Twitter: https://twitter.com/etuckerAP and https://twitter.com/ChadSDay The U.S. and Canada forged a last-gasp deal to salvage NAFTA over the weekend, following more than a year of tense trilateral negotiations. One key takeaway from the new United States-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) deal is a clause that stipulates the agreement must be reviewed every six years. When asked on Tuesday whether the six-year review clause could become a touchstone election issue over the coming years, Stephen Brown, senior Canada economist at Capital Economics, told CNBC: "Definitely." A six-year review clause in the revamped North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) will "definitely" become a hot-button election issue over the coming years, a market expert told CNBC on Tuesday. The United States and Canada forged a last-gasp deal to salvage NAFTA over the weekend, following more than a year of tense trilateral negotiations. Until recently, Canada appeared to be on the brink of being excluded from a final agreement, but talks on Sunday eventually culminated in all three countries signing up to the new United States-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) accord. One key takeaway from the USMCA deal is a clause that stipulates the agreement must be reviewed every six years. That's because many analysts believe this process is likely to inject an additional dose of uncertainty for global investors. When asked whether the six-year review clause could become a touchstone election issue over the coming years, Stephen Brown, senior Canada economist at Capital Economics, replied: "Definitely." "(President) Donald Trump could still be president in six years' time and that could hold some investment back," Brown told CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe" on Tuesday, before adding: "(A six-year review) becomes more of a sticking point because politicians have to actively put their support behind it." Leverage One senior Trump administration official told CNBC on Sunday that the review clause will provide the U.S. with a " significant new form of leverage " to make sure the arrangement is to its liking. Story continues Initially, the Trump administration pushed Mexico and Canada to sign up to a deal that would allow all three countries to scrap the revamped NAFTA accord after only five years unless they could agree otherwise. Mexico and Canada pushed back over that five-year proposal, before eventually agreeing to a 16-year sunset clause renewable following a six-year review. "If every marriage had a five-year sunset clause, I think our divorce rate would be a heck of a lot higher than it is right now," David McNaughton, Canada's ambassador to the U.S, told Politico during negotiations last month. NAFTA 2.0 'takes away' some uncertainty Trump, who had long threatened to scrap the NAFTA deal in full, has lauded the USMCA pact as a key electoral promise fulfilled. But critics of the revamped deal have questioned whether much has really changed from the original accord, prompting Trump to tell reporters on Monday: "It is not NAFTA redone. It is a brand new deal." "The NAFTA revamp is an achievement in itself simply because it takes away some of the uncertainty on global trade," Guy de Blonay, fund manager at Jupiter Asset Management, told CNBC on Tuesday. "Clearly markets have been cheering somewhat But, of course, China is a much bigger entity and is probably the biggest part of the uncertainty on global trade," he added. The USMCA deal is subject to approval by Congress. More From CNBC National Security Advisor John Bolton has called Iran a 'rogue regime', shortly after the US announced it is terminating a 1955 treaty over calls to end sanctions that impact the import of humanitarian goods and products to the country. Mr Bolton, defending the policy decision announced on Wednesday by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, pushed back on comments from Iran's foreign minister earlier this week that the United States is bullying countries, in violation of international law, by asking that countries and companies discontinue trade and business with Iran. "Iran is a rogue regime, it has been a threat throughout the Middle East ... So I don't take what they say seriously at all," Mr Bolton said during a press conference in the White House. The United States terminated the 1955 treaty with Iran shortly after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled earlier in the day that the US must lift sanctions that limit the import of goods that are linked to the safety of civil aviation in Iran. The Iranians had said that the US sanctions violated the 1955 bilateral Treaty of Amity, which was signed at a time when the US and Iran enjoyed good relations. The treaty was written and signed in order to regulate and promote strong economic and diplomatic ties between the countries. Mr Pompeo, during a press conference, called the accusations that the US violated international law "meritless" and said that Iran was "attempting to interfere with the sovereign rights of the United States to take lawful actions necessary to protect our national security and abusing the ICJ for political and propaganda purposes". The ICJ had said in a preliminary decision that the United States must "remove, by means of its choosing, any impediments arising from" sanctions that limit the import of goods including medicine, medical devices, food, and agricultural commodities that are necessary for the safety of civil aviation. Story continues The US, in response, had argued that the ICJ does not have authority to challenge its Iran sanctions because they are a matter of American national security. The ICJ has indicated that the US could challenge the Hague court's jurisdiction in the matter as the case goes forward. Mr Pompeo, during his announcement, said that the decision to toss the Treaty of Amity was long overdue, and suggested that the limited scope of the ICJ's ruling was actually a "defeat for Iran". "This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue," he said, implying that the United States should have walked away from the treaty after Iran's 1979 revolution. "The court denied Iran's attempt to secure broad measures to interfere with US sanctions and rightly noted Iran's history of non-compliance with its international obligations under the treaty of non-proliferation of nuclear weapons," Mr Pompeo said. Before the Wednesday decision, Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that President Donald Trump's threat to bring sanctions against European countries that do business with Iran was an "unprecedented" step, and said that the US president was being a "bully" in his pursuit of strict sanctions against his country. "The United States is asking countries to violate international law, and is telling countries and companies that if they observe the law they'll be punished," Mr Zarif told CBS in an interview at the United Nations General Assembly in New York last week. "This is probably unprecedented, even for a bully, in a town to go to the sheriff's office and tell them, 'If you try not to drop people you are going to be punished'". Mr Zarif has also suggested that the US was isolating itself from the international community as a result of its approach to Iran, and that Iran would continue to do business with European partners. "This policy is going to have a backlash. The international community is not going to accept somebody to come and just [give] orders," he said. "We will continue to work with the Europeans. Certainly some European companies have withdrawn from Iran because of the fear of punishment by the United States". Mr Trump announced in May that he planned on withdrawing the US from the Obama-era nuclear agreement with Iran, saying that the deal did not go far enough towards securing Middle East security even though international nuclear experts agreed that Iran had complied with its promise under the deal to halt its pursuit of nuclear weapons grade uranium. Mr Trump said that Iran's testing of ballistic missiles, and its alleged support for terrorist groups in the region, meant that a new deal with Iran was necessary for him to consent to continued sanctions relief. The US then reimposed sanctions on Iran. Brussels (AFP) - NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Wednesday demanded Moscow prove it is complying with a landmark Cold War nuclear arms reduction treaty, as concerns grow over a new Russian missile system. Washington has complained for nearly two years that a ground-launched missile system deployed by Russia breaches the 1987 Intermediate Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF). NATO defence ministers will discuss the issue at a two-day meeting in Brussels, after the alliance's July summit declaration said the Russian 9M729 missile system raised "serious concerns". Stoltenberg said the 1987 accord signed by US president Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev remained a "cornerstone of European security". "We are very serious about our concerns and very serious when we call on Russia to comply with the INF treaty in a transparent and verifiable way," Stoltenberg said, adding that Moscow had long denied the missile even existed. "Now they have admitted the missile exists and therefore we have called on them to answer our questions. As long as they don't answer our questions, the most plausible solution is that this is a violation of the INF treaty." NATO leaders raised concerns about the Russian 9M729 missile system and urged Moscow to engage in dialogue to ensure the future of the INF treaty, which abolished a whole class of missiles with a range of between 500 and 5,500 kilometres. It put an end to a mini-arms race in the 1980s triggered by the Soviet Union's deployment of SS-20 nuclear missiles targeting Western European capitals. Moscow has repeatedly insisted it is not in breach of the treaty, but its denials have cut little ice in Western capitals. US Defense Secretary James Mattis said in February that the Pentagon was working on new low-yield nuclear weapons to respond to the Russian move in a bid to force them back into compliance with the INF. On Tuesday the US Ambassador to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison set pulses racing when she said Washington was looking to "take out the missiles that are in development by Russia". Story continues She later clarified that she was not suggesting the US would launch pre-emptive strikes on Russia, but underlining the need for the allies to find ways to counter any escalation. A NATO official insisted "the ball on this issue is in Russia's court", saying the alliance expected "credible answers" about the missile system. The official accused Russia of undermining longstanding international agreements aimed at reducing military tensions. "We do have problems with the whole range of arms control and reduction treaties," the official told reporters. Moscow has "essentially renounced" a late Cold War agreement limiting the deployment of conventional forces in Europe, the official said, and regularly fails to give observers access to military exercises. Niamey (AFP) - An employee of the medical charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF) was kicked out of Niger on Wednesday, accused of exaggerating the death toll from a malaria epidemic in the south of the West African country. A video by Anne Pittet, an MSF paediatrist, said 10 children were dying each day in the southern town of Magaria from malaria or malnutrition. Health Minister Idi Illiassou, who talked to AFP in Magaria, said "everything (Pittet) said was false." MSF said on September 25 that its paediatric teams were "fighting alarming death rates among children under five", totalling around 10 deaths a day over the previous 20 days. The Niger governments malaria expert Hadiza Djermakoye strongly denied the MSF figures, saying in a statement that from January to mid-September the town had recorded 67 malaria deaths. Djermakoye said nationwide there had been 1,360,000 cases of malaria, with 1,584 deaths through mid-September. Oslo (AFP) - Donald Trump? Hardly. Reconciliation between the Koreas? Rather premature. Peace between Ethiopia and Eritrea? Probably missed the deadline. As the 2018 Nobel peace prize looms, it's easier to rule out names than guess who's going to win. This year the field of possibilities facing the five members of the Norwegian committee tasked with awarding the prize was pretty wide, with 331 individuals and organisations proposed for the prestigious prize, which will be announced on Friday in Oslo. And, as usual, despite the fact the list of candidates is a secret, predictions about who might win are gathering pace. With the postponement of this year's Literature Prize for the first time in 70 years over a #MeToo scandal at the Swedish Academy, Friday's peace award has become the most highly anticipated Nobel announcement this year. Looking at the odds on some of the online betting sites, you might think North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his South Korean counterpart Moon Jae-in were the front-runners for their efforts at rapprochement between the two nations. But the Nobel experts -- who are more often than not wrong -- are scratching their heads. "On the one hand, the inter-Korean breakthrough is I think the most dramatic thing in this field this year," said Dan Smith, head of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). "On the other hand I wonder whether it would be premature to be giving the prize on that basis this year." Apart from anything else, Kim's record on human rights hardly stands in his favour. - Trump? 'Inappropriate' - Could Moon get it on his own? "(He) did well, with the peace-promoting use of the (Winter) Olympic Games" in Pyeongchang, said Peter Wallensteen, a Swedish professor who specialises in international relations. But what of Trump? Certain international figures like Britain's Boris Johnson, when he was foreign minister, and even Moon himself have suggested the US leader could win the prize for his initiatives on the Korean peninsula. Story continues At 7-1, the bombastic American president is one of three frontrunners flagged by online bookies Betsson, far ahead of other global figures like France's Emmanuel Macron, Britain's Theresa May and Russia's Vladimir Putin all with odds of 75-1. Such a prize would be "inappropriate," said Smith, pointing to a string of decisions by Trump which "are very negative as far as peace is concerned", most notably withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement and the Iran nuclear deal. And in any case, the only known Trump nomination submitted to the Nobel committee was fake, filed by someone suspected of identity fraud as only certain individuals are allowed to propose names. The nascent reconciliation between Ethiopia and Eritrea has also fuelled hope that a durable peace can be reached between the two neighbouring countries after 20 years of war. For Wallensteen, the peace prize could go to Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed. But he only took power in April with his peace overtures coming to fruition this summer. That is a little late for the Nobel committee, which takes nominations at the start of the year. - Fighting sexual violence - Given the lack of certainty and the limited scope of progress on potentially prize-winning initiatives, some observers are turning to some longer-term contenders. With the #MeToo movement raising global awareness about sexual abuse and harassment, the award could honour those engaged in the fight against sexual violence, such as Congolese gynaecologist Denis Mukwege or Yazidi rape victim Nadia Murad. Nominated many times in the past, Mukwege has spent two decades helping women recover from the violence and trauma of rape in war-torn eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, while Murad became an activist after being kidnapped by Islamic State group militants and held as a sex slave. Henrik Urdal, head of the Peace Research Institute of Oslo (Prio), believes the award could go to the UN's World Food Programme (WFP), which feeds millions of starving people every year. From the battlefields of Yemen to the Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh, "we are seeing now that hunger is becoming again one of the bigger humanitarian challenges of our time," he said. Other potential laureates include the UN refugee agency UNHCR, jailed Saudi blogger Raif Badawi, organisations defending the media such as Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists (RSF) and Russian human rights champions like the NGO Memorial and opposition newspaper Novaya Gazeta. With everything up in the air, the verdict will only be known on Friday at 11:00 am (0900 GMT). Nurse Emily Rosimo asked her former patient Augie to be her flower girl. (Photo: Courtesy of Emily Rosimo) For many couples getting married, the go-to flower girl is a young niece or cousin, maybe even a younger sister. Emily Rosimo instead turned to a family she chose, rather than one she was born into. She asked August Giotta, aka Augie, one of the first babies she had ever cared for as a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse, to go down the aisle before her. It was symbolic of a very special relationship born of unfortunate circumstances. Augie was born in February 2015 at 29 weeks at OHSU Doernbecher Childrens Hospital in Portland, Ore., in a surprise C-section that her identical twin did not survive. But Augie did, her mother, Genevieve Giotta, tells Yahoo Lifestyle. She is still a very fiery personality, and a fighter from day 1. Rosimo was brand new to the NICU, but she decided to become a primary caregiver for Augie, meaning that she would take care of the infant every time she was working. Its a way to give the parents and newborn consistency during a very chaotic and difficult time. I knew just as soon as I met the family that they were something special, she tells Yahoo. Rosimo was one of four nurses who worked as Augies primary caregivers, but Giotta felt a special connection to Rosimo most of all when she visited her daughter late at night. I got to know Emily because the NICU at night is this kind of magical, quiet place with all these babies that are growing, Giotta says. Emily Rosimo holding August Augie Giotta, a patient who would later become her flower girl. (Photo: Courtesy of Emily Rosimo) Having that relationship made a huge difference in her experience. You dont know when your baby is coming home, and you dont get to stay there every night in the hospital with your child. So you rely on the nurses, and to have someone as special as [Emily] where you can feel truly comfortable and say, Oh my goodness, its as if I was there, because I know this persons heart is in it with my child.' After 10 weeks in the hospital, Augie was cleared to go home, but not before Giotta made it clear to Rosimo that she wanted to keep in touch. Jennie and I pretty much talk every day, Rosimo says. She forever has called [Augie] our baby. She refers to me as her NICU mama. They have made me basically a part of their family, which has just been incredible for me. Story continues So in planning her wedding, which took place in September, Rosimo asked Giotta to be her bridesmaid and Augie to be her flower girl. To make sure Augie didnt veer off course, as 3-year-olds are wont to do, older kids pulled her down the aisle in a wagon. The youngest of four girls relished the experience. Augie was thrilled to do it, says her mom. It was this opportunity to be the center of attention. Photo: Courtesy of Emily Rosimo When Rosimo shared a photo of herself and her flower girl to Reddit, another NICU nurse chimed in to say she had also included former patients in her wedding party. Many families do keep in touch with their babies caregivers, but this level of closeness isnt typical. Parents usually send updates and photos from their birthdays, or they post to Facebook groups like the one Doernbecher Childrens Hospital has set up for the NICU. Their unique bond, even after the Giottas moved from Oregon to California, is something Rosimo wanted to tell others about. I feel like people dont necessarily understand what NICU nurses do, and how challenging it can be, and how rewarding it can be, Rosimo says of why she decided to post her photo to Reddit. It was not the best circumstances to be brought together and to become friends through, but it is what it is. We consider it our magic little story. Read More from Yahoo Lifestyle: Kendall Jenner emerges from her fashion week drought to walk in Burberry show The major Bella Hadid runway trend you can copy for $13 First deaf, transgender model is signed to the same agency as Gigi Hadid and Gisele Bundchen Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. Public health officials are expressing deepening concern that the latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo may be spinning beyond their control and could soon spill over into neighboring countries including Uganda and Rwanda. With Ebola response teams facing restrictions on their movements in a conflict zone, officials fear containment efforts are falling further behind the virus. And if response teams lose sight of where the virus goes, it could spread undetected and unchecked in places where they cannot safely travel. At this point in an epidemic, wed probably be peaking in terms of knowing where the virus is. And now with the insecurity, thats compromised, said Dr. Mike Ryan, assistant director-general of the World Health Organizations emergency preparedness and response program. To date in this outbreak DRCs 10th there have been 161 cases and 105 deaths. The threat of a widening epidemic was compounded with a discovery last week that two people infected with Ebola had fled from the Congolese city of Beni to Tchomia, near the border with Uganda, prompting the WHO to warn that the risk that the virus will spread to DRCs eastern neighbors is very high. Previously the risk of regional spread had been assessed as high. (The risk of spread outside the region remains low.) Uganda and Rwanda, with the help of the WHO, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other international partners, have been preparing for weeks to deal with the possibility of imported cases. Read more: With short outbreaks and complex permissions, testing critical Ebola treatments is a challenge Ugandas drug regulatory agency has been going through the process of approving a protocol to use an Ebola vaccine being developed by Merck; that vaccine is currently being deployed in DRC in a ring vaccination strategy. Under the approach, people who have been in contact with an Ebola case and the contacts of each contact are vaccinated to block the viruss ability to spread. Story continues Uganda is planning to adopt the ring vaccination strategy as well. But it also intends to pre-vaccinate health workers in high-risk health zones near the DRC border. Initial supplies of vaccine are already in the country and that work could start within days. We hope this will start very soon, said Dr. Sose Fall, regional emergencies director for the WHOs regional office for Africa. Fall said he expects health workers in Uganda will agree to be vaccinated with the still-experimental vaccine. Uganda has a long history of Ebola outbreaks it has had more than any other country except DRC. Ugandan health care workers they know Ebola already. They know the risks, Fall said. The CDC currently has staff in Uganda working on the vaccination program, said Ray Arthur, a co-leader of the Ebola coordination team for the agency. The protocols are with the institutional review board, with the government, and the vaccine is in Entebbe, he said. Uganda which has been conducting fever checks at border crossings to identify any possible Ebola cases is monitoring the health of two people who recently entered the country. The pair, who were discovered in a refugee camp, may have been exposed to the virus because they attended the burial of an Ebola patient in DRC, Fall said. Traditional burial ceremonies, in which attendees may touch or kiss the corpse of the deceased, can be major Ebola transmission events. Thats because around the time of death and even after, the skin of a person who died from Ebola teems with viruses. So they are being monitored on the Uganda side to make sure that if something happened they will be isolated very quickly, Fall said of the two, who havent been tested because as yet they havent shown symptoms of illness. There is a sense that Uganda, in particular, is well prepared to cope with imported cases. Uganda has done a fine job, Ryan said. Arthur concurred. CDC has a country office in Uganda, he explained, and other staff from the agency have traveled to the country to help its health ministry identify where Ebola patients could be treated if cases occur. The CDC has also advised the staff on border health issues and infection control which is critical to ensuring people with Ebola do not infect other patients or the health workers caring for them. Should cases come into the country, we would expect transmission would be quite limited, Arthur said. Preparedness efforts are also underway in Rwanda, which is further from the outbreak epicenter, and in South Sudan. While experts have some confidence DRCs neighbors are ready to spot and isolate Ebola cases if there are importations, they appear to feel less assured about how containment efforts are progressing in DRC. A rebel attack on Beni about 10 days ago killed a number of civilians and led to the declaration of several days of city-wide mourning days in which shops and schools closed and during which the response teams had to cut back their efforts. Most importantly the tracking of case contacts suffered, at a time when this critical effort was already failing to register all the people who had been in contact with confirmed cases. Our whole strategy is based on knowing where the virus is, identifying cases, identifying contacts, contacts of contacts, isolation, vaccination, community education, Ryan explained. And that whole strategy is predicated on a deeper and deeper and more and more precise day-by-day knowledge of where the virus is. The health of contacts who are being followed is monitored regularly; if they get sick, authorities ask to take them to Ebola treatment units in Ebola parlance an ETU where they can be treated in isolation and where the risk is low that they will infect anyone else. But contacts who dont make it onto the follow-up lists dont get offered vaccine. Because they are not recognized as potential Ebola cases, if they get sick their illness may evade detection. They may end up being cared for at home and being buried without proper precautions if they die. That can result in new infections among caregivers or funeral attendees. In the last couple of weeks, a number of newly diagnosed Ebola patients were people who were not on a contact list. Five such cases were reported late last week by the WHO. You should not have cases occurring which werent on a contact list, Arthur said. Theres been too many of those in the past two weeks. Fall said further investigation showed all five had been in contact with a known case which is moderately reassuring. In the midst of an Ebola outbreak, realizing your contact list was incomplete is bad. But finding a case with no discernible link to other cases is worse. That signals that there are chains of transmission that response teams arent aware of and arent tracking. Then you lose the virus, Ryan said. The virus leaves the trail. Drawing up a full list of the contacts of a case is slow and painstaking work, Ryan said work that isnt well suited to a conflict zone. Each one of those is an individual detective story. You need to spend time and sit with the family What happened here? And when did you move there? And what wedding did you go to? Ryan explained. If youre looking over your shoulder worrying about a bullet coming through the window or the door, these encounters become very, very strained, Ryan continued. Surveillance officers are nervous. And then if you add into that community mistrust and the misinformation, that participation and the acceptance of the community is affected. The effort isnt helped by the fact that there are now cases in multiple different communities in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. That expansion of the area the response teams need to cover has created huge logistical challenges. Were now in nine health zones, Arthur said. And the longer the transmission occurs, obviously the greater risk for it to get into an area wheres not good contact tracing or there arent vaccination programs in place. Each time theres extension into a new area, all that infrastructure laboratories, ETUs, contact tracing, vaccination teams has to be re-established. And that takes time, he said. So I think were in a position now where were playing catch up and thats not the kind of position we want to be in. Pakistani security forces killed seven militants in a firefight after insurgents crossed the Afghan border into Pakistan's restive tribal region, the military said Tuesday. Officials said the clashes erupted late Monday when militants attacked a Pakistani border post in North Waziristan tribal district. "During (the) exchange of fire seven terrorists (were) killed while three (were) injured," the military said in a statement. Violence in Pakistan has declined dramatically in recent years following a series of military operations along the northwestern border with Afghanistan, but militant groups are still able to carry out deadly attacks. Pakistan's army launched a massive operation in 2014 to wipe out militant bases in North Waziristan and end the near decade-long insurgency that has cost thousands of lives. The operation intensified after the Taliban massacred more than 150 people, the majority of them children, at a school in the northwestern city of Peshawar in December 2014. In 2016, the Pakistani army claimed to have cleared the last militant stronghold in the country's northwest after a three-month long operation. But analysts have long warned that Pakistan is not tackling the root causes of extremism, and that militants retain the ability to carry out spectacular attacks. A suicide blast in the southwestern province of Balochistan on July 13 killed at least 149 people during a campaign rally -- one of Pakistan's worst-ever terror attacks -- underscoring continuing security challenges in the country following years of dramatic improvements. Gaza City (Palestinian Territories) (AFP) - A Palestinian teenager was killed during clashes with Israeli soldiers near the Gaza border on Wednesday, the health ministry in the enclave said. Ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra told AFP that Ahmed Abu Habel, 15, succumbed to a head wound after being hit with a tear gas cannister fired by soldiers near a checkpoint between Israel and the Gaza Strip. Israel's military did not comment on the specific incident but a spokeswoman told AFP that soldiers had "fired live rounds in accordance with the rules of engagement" as protesters massed along the border. There have been months of demonstrations and clashes along the Gaza border. Wednesday's incident took place in the Beit Hanoun area of the northern Gaza Strip, near the Erez crossing into Israel. At least 195 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed by Israeli fire since the protests began on March 30. One Israeli soldier has been killed in the border area over the same period. Israel says its actions are necessary to defend the border and stop infiltrations and attacks, which it accuses Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the Gaza Strip, of orchestrating. Palestinians and rights groups say demonstrators have been shot while posing no real threat. Israel and Palestinian militants in blockaded Gaza have fought three wars since 2008. The protests have been calling for Palestinian refugees to return to their former homes now inside Israel. More than 700,000 Palestinians fled or were expelled in the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation. Israel says allowing the so-called right of return would mean the end of the country as a Jewish state. Last Friday, seven Palestinians, including a 12 and 14-year-old, were killed in clashes with Israeli forces along the Gaza border. It was the bloodiest day of border protests since May 14, when more than 60 Palestinians died in violence accompanying the inauguration of the US embassy in Jerusalem, a move that enraged Palestinians. Story continues The protests have seen Palestinians hurl stones and burn tyres. Israel says protesters have also targeted soldiers with explosive devices, grenades and gunfire, while infiltrations have been attempted. Israeli snipers have been positioned on the opposite side of the fence. The months of unrest have also led to several exchanges of rockets or mortars fired by Hamas and air strikes by Israel's military. Mail screeners at the Pentagon uncovered two suspicious envelopes that initially tested positive for ricin, a deadly poison made from castor beans, a Defense Department official said. The envelopes, which arrived Monday, were given to the FBI for further analysis and all U.S. Postal Service mail received at the screening facility is currently under quarantine, according to Christopher Sherwood, a Pentagon spokesman. The mail facility is located near the Pentagon, but not inside the five-sided military headquarters building. Therefore the discovery of ricin poses no threat to Pentagon personnel, Sherwood said. The envelopes were addressed to Defense Secretary James Mattis and to Chief of Naval Operations Admiral John Richardson, according to a CNN report. Ricin is a natural toxin that occurs in the husks of the castor bean, which can be grown all over the world, after it is ground into a powder. Making a pure, and thus more potent, form of the substance is difficult. However, impure versions can be made using equipment available in most kitchens. Ricin works by getting inside the cells of a persons body and preventing the cells from making the proteins they need, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Without the proteins, cells die. Eventually this is harmful to the whole body, and death may occur. The U.S. military experimented with using ricin in the 1940s as a possible weapon against adversaries. More recently, terror groups have been drawn to using ricin in attacks. In June, German authorities said they thwarted a ricin terror plot by a Tunisian man living in Cologne suspected of being in touch with ISIS. A month earlier, French authorities announced they had disrupted a possible ricin attack when it raided an Egyptian-born students residence after intercepting messages on social media. Earlier this year, multiple suspicious packages, containing potential destructive devices, were sent to several U.S. military facilities across the Washington D.C.-area. The FBI later arrested Tranh Cong Phan, at his home in the Seattle-area, less than 24 hours after the packages were discovered. Lima (AFP) - A Peruvian court on Wednesday annulled ex-president Alberto Fujimori's pardon for crimes against humanity and ordered the 80-year-old's immediate arrest, officials said. The South American country's justice department said in a statement that the Supreme Court had "issued the arrest and detention orders against former president Fujimori so that he may be re-integrated into the prison establishment." Fujimori was pardoned by presidential decree last December. He was 12 years into a 25-year jail sentence handed down for ordering two massacres by death squads between 1991 and 1992. "This decision is inhuman, it's unjust," said his daughter Keiko, leader of the main opposition Popular Force party and seen by many as the heir to Fujimori's political dynasty. "Today is the saddest day of our lives, it's painful," a tearful Keiko told reporters, adding that she had yet to speak to her father since the court decision. One of Fujimori's lawyers, Miguel Perez, said on Chile's RPP radio the decision was subject to appeal. The pardon, issued by then-president Pedro Pablo Kuczynski before he was himself brought down by a corruption scandal, triggered a wave of protests by human rights organizations and by victims of Fujimori's crackdown. Fujimori, a Peruvian of Japanese descent, has been living in Lima but has been hospitalized four times since his release last December. - Health problems - Victims of Fujimori's crackdown had petitioned the Inter-American Court to demand a judicial review of the process that led to the pardon. Carlos Rivera, a lawyer for the victims, said the decision to annul the pardon was justified. "Kuczynski's pardon to Alberto Fujimori has no legal value and therefore he has to return to prison for irregularities in the process," he said. Kuczynski had justified the pardon on humanitarian grounds, given Fujimori's well-documented ill-health. But the scandal-tainted president had only days earlier survived an impeachment vote thanks to the abstention of a group of lawmakers led by Fujimori's son Kenji. Story continues Fujimori's critics said the pardon was obviously a quid-pro-quo, the price Kuczynski paid for what proved to be a temporary political survival. "International standards in the humanitarian pardon were not met," Rivera said. Alejandro Aguinaga, Fujimori's doctor, expressed shock at the news. "We see that in Peru nothing is respected. The pardon of president Fujimori was a constitutional action," Aguinaga told Radio RPP. Fujimori has had a number of operations as part of a long-running battle with tongue cancer. His most recent hospitalization was in August, for an irregular heartbeat. - Family feud - He has been working on a memoir about his decade in power (1990-2000), a period marked by corruption but also by a fight against guerrillas and terrorism. "I have reached 80 bearing the marks of the years, with all the shocks of political life, the enormous satisfactions and the profound regrets," he wrote in a message to AFP around his birthday in July. "In the few years I have left," Fujimori explained in his handwritten text, "I will dedicate myself to three objectives: bringing my family together, improving my health to the extent possible, and striking a serene and balanced equilibrium in my life." However, Fujimori has been unable to reconcile his daughter Keiko, 43, with her younger brother Kenji, who leads a rival faction of her party, to end a political schism which could see the two face off in the 2021 presidential elections. The charge of crimes against humanity stemmed in part from the killings or disappearances of scores of civilians -- allegedly by a shadowy squad of military officers -- during Peru's bloody struggle against Maoist rebels. The ex-ruler is revered and despised in equal measure in Peru. Admirers laud him for dragging the country's economy into the modern era and defeating the Shining Path guerrilla movement. Despite sitting atop a tobacco behemoth that is very often the butt of endless criticism from government officials and public health advocates, Philip Morris International CEO Andre Calantzopoulos doesnt think his job is too different from other leading executives. Look, I dont think there is any business that isnt tough. Business is about change and dealing with unknown things and I dont think I have the unique privilege of being in a different position than my fellow CEOs, Calantzopoulos explained in an interview with Yahoo Finance when asked about his seemingly challenging role. Philip Morris International CEO Andre Calantzopoulos Perhaps. But that doesnt mean Calantzopouloss grand vision of creating a world without cigarettes one he calls a smoke-free future will be easy to execute for the Marlboro seller. After all, navigating the watchful eyes of governments globally with new products and surviving the 24/7 attacks from TV ads on traditional cigarettes will be vastly more difficult than launching a new clothing line on the web and seeing it take off overnight. (Philip Morris International was spun off from Altria in 2008, and licenses names such as Marlboro to sell overseas. Philip Morris USA, a division of Altria, is based in Virginia and sells Marlboro, Virginia Slims and L&M in the U.S.) Seeing news Tuesday of a government raid on the headquarters of vaping company Juul Labs doesnt make Philip Morris Internationals turnaround efforts any easier, either. Adapting to a cigarette-less world So far, Philip Morris International has seen some momentum behind the push to evolve in an increasingly anti-cigarette world. And company executives used their pulpit at a Sept. 27 investor day to try and persuade an anxious Wall Street that progress is being made. The company says that 5.8 million adult smokers have quit their bad habit and switched to a new reduced risk product called IQOS. Philip Morris wants to use its new IQOS device, which heats tobacco without combustion, to convert the 1 billion people worldwide still puffing away on cigarettes. Story continues IQOS is marketed in Europe, Japan and other international markets primarily under the HEETS label. A man uses a Philip Morris iQOS e-cigarette in Tokyo. (REUTERS/Issei Kato/File Photo) Two applications are pending with the FDA regarding the sale of IQOS in the U.S. If approved, it would be a big boost for Philip Morris in the U.S. market. While IQOS shipment volume rose 5.5% in the second quarter in the key market of Japan, market share fell sequentially, by 0.3%, for the first time. And IQOS market share rose a modest 0.7% sequentially in Korea amid a barrage of negative ads on the health concerns of reduced risk products. Its challenging to achieve a smoke-free future, but I dont think its a dream, Calantzopoulos says, adding that he uses the IQOS device. It has been my dream to get these kinds of products to market. If we are successful in this transformation, we will be a much better organization and a much more modern organization than we were. Industry experts Yahoo Finance spoke with are mixed on tobacco players such as Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds being able to end cigarette use and profit from e-cigarettes and vape gadgets. They [tobacco industry] think they will transition to other products, and I dont accept that proposition, says tobacco industry historian and Middle Tennessee State University professor Louis Kyriakoudes. You have IQOS and vaping products being pitched by tobacco companies as safer than combustible cigarettes, but all of them are drug delivery devices and cause injury of addiction. They are inherently dangerous and are not safe. By the numbers Even with the well-entrenched skeptics, Phillip Morriss business model pivot makes sense based on the data alone. About 14% of U.S. adults were smokers last year, down from roughly 16% the year prior, according to the latest data from the CDC. In the early 1960s, more than 40% of U.S. adults smoked. The number of smokers worldwide fell by 29 million from 2000 to 2015, per the most recent data crunched by the World Health Organization. The aforementioned Juul sold 16.2 million of devices last year, according to data released Tuesday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2016, Juul saw sales of 2.2 million. Smoking in America continues to decline. Phillip Morris CEO tells Yahoo Finance how he is trying to transform the tobacco maker. Meanwhile, the e-cigarette and t-vapor market was estimated at $11.43 billion in 2016, according to BIS Research. The market is seen surging to $86.4 billion by 2025 as more people give up cigarettes and turn to something marketed as safer. So its either Philip Morris International and the like take a stab at changing today or risk extinction in the future. Aligning your business with health puts you in a really good spot, said Gerry J. Roerty, Jr., vice president and general counsel of tobacco seller Swedish Match North America. The consumer is awfully resistant, though, so you have to give them a reason to move to other products. Wall Street needs to be won over The transition away from cigarettes has weighed on Philip Morris. Shares tumbled 16% on April 25 when the company reported mixed first-quarter earnings. That marked the biggest one-day drop since the Altria spinoff as first-quarter cigarette shipments fell by 5.3%, as important markets, like Japan, Russia and Saudi Arabia, saw weak performance. The second quarter brought slight relief with cigarette volumes off by 1.5%. But the stock stayed under pressure for most of the summer, only recovering a bit of ground following the companys investor day presentation last month. I think it [market reaction] is exaggerated, but as the results come in, it will correct, says Calantzopoulos. Said Kyriakoudes, If I was an investor looking for the best return, I would be very wary of the tobacco industry as the market is shifting rapidly. It does appear Wall Street may be finally warming to Philip Morris as a cost-cutting play that continues to offer an attractive dividend. Calantzopoulos told investors during the presentation he will cut $1 billion in costs by 2021. Thats fresh off hiking the dividend by a solid 6.5% in June, marking the 11th consecutive year of a dividend increase. The dividend yield on Philip Morris is now a heady 5.8%. We appreciated Philip Morriss candor about the challenges it faces in pioneering a potentially revolutionary lower-risk alternative to cigarettes and its decision to set measured (we think safely achievable) mid-term [financial] targets given the inherent volatility of reduced risk products presently, Wells Fargo analyst Bonnie Herzog wrote in a note after the investor gathering. Herzog says Philip Morris is one of her top picks. Others think the market is neglecting the companys still nicely profitable core cigarette business. Philip Morris is an undervalued opportunity. The market is discounting the core growth in the cigarette business and giving zero credit to the potential in reduced risk products, Stifel Nicolaus tobacco industry analyst Chris Growe told Yahoo Finance. Says Calantzopoulos, If we are successful with these new products as I think we will be, at the end of the day the vision is that there will be no cigarettes. MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia has delivered an S-300 surface-to-air missile system to Syria, it said on Tuesday, in defiance of Israeli and U.S. concerns that the arms sale would embolden Iran and escalate the Syrian war. Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu told President Vladimir Putin during a meeting broadcast by Rossiya 24 TV: "The work was finished a day ago," adding that the system would improve the security of Russian military personal in Syria. Russia decided to supply the system after Moscow accused Israel of indirectly causing the downing of a Russian military jet near Syria in September. Israel voiced regret at the deaths of 15 Russian air crew while saying Syrian incompetence was at fault and that it was compelled to continue taking action against suspected deployments of Iranian-backed forces across its northern border. "We have not changed our strategic line on Iran," Israeli Education Minister Naftali Bennett, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus security cabinet, said on Tuesday. "We will not allow Iran to open up a third front against us. We will take actions as required," he told Israel Radio. In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert could not confirm reports that the S-300 had been delivered. "I cannot confirm that that is accurate. I hope that they did not," she told a press briefing. "That would be, I think, sort of a serious escalation in concerns and issues going on in Syria, but I just can't confirm it." (Reporting by Polina Devitt in Moscow, Dan Williams in Jerusalem and Lesley Wroughton in Washington; editing by Robin Pomeroy and James Dalgleish) A facility belonging to Aramco, the Saudi oil company: Innovation Saudi Essam al-Zamel is an engaged economist and a successful businessman, a self-described serial entrepreneur and social media star who used his expertise in finance to politely punch holes in Saudi Arabias ambitious growth visions. He was planning to travel to the US this year, hoping to return to academia, and finally obtain a doctorate in economics, a longtime dream. But a year ago, before he could head abroad, Essam al-Zamel was arrested, rounded up along with other Saudi activists, dissidents and scholars. And in recent days it has emerged that the mild-mannered number cruncher has been charged with draconian terrorism and treason charges, and possibly faces the death penalty or years in prison. Its the fear, said Madawi al-Rasheed, a London-based Saudi scholar and writer often critical of the Saudi leadership. The regime doesnt mind people passing insults on Twitter, but Essam al-Zamel is an educated person who poses a threat because he can provide statistics and evidence that debunks Saudi propaganda. The treatment of the Saudi businessman, who was educated in the US and studied briefly in the UK, has raised fresh concerns about human rights in the oil-rich kingdom, which is under the sway of its ambitious Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman. Mr Zamel has been charged with serious offences, including membership of the Muslim Brotherhood, the outlawed international Islamist political group that renounced violence decades ago and once received the backing of the Saudi state. According to the Saudi newspaper al-Riyadh, he was also charged with ties to Qatar, the tiny Arabian Peninsula nation that has had a cataclysmic falling out with the Saudi leadership. Hes also accused of inciting and sowing sedition in society, seeking the violent overthrow of the Saudi regime by calling for protests, and leaking sensitive information that could harm national security, as well as violating cyber law by mobilising his followers on social media. Story continues The regime doesnt mind people passing insults on Twitter, but Essam al-Zamel is an educated person who poses a threat because he can provide statistics and evidence that debunks Saudi propaganda Madawi al-Rasheed, Saudi academic Mr Zamels supporters are aghast at the accusations against him. Especially stinging is the charge of sedition, they say, noting that he actually championed an initiative against sectarianism by encouraging Sunnis to pray at Shia mosques and Shias to pray at Sunni mosques. Friends and family have grown increasingly worried about him amid reports that hes been held in harsh conditions under solitary confinement in what many suspect is a tactic to obtain a confession. I heard they broke him, said a source close to Mr Zamels social circle. They told me this hes not going to be the same person again. They destroyed him. He appeared to have run afoul of Saudi authorities after publicly criticising the Saudi Crown Princes ambitious Vision 2030 scheme to evolve the countrys economy beyond petrochemicals. As part of the plan, the Crown Prince wanted to pressure Saudi businesses into replacing expat workers with locals. But Mr Zamel who at one point had close to one million followers on Twitter warned that the plan would cause a recession by reducing demand. He dug into the economic aspect and concluded it was unworkable, said Iyad al-Baghdadi, an Oslo-based Arab political activist. Mr Zamel also criticised the Crown Princes plan to the take the countrys national oil company, Aramco, public to raise $2 trillion (1.5bn). To reach such a valuation, Mr Zamel argued, the firm would have to sell off reserves, which he deemed not the property of the company. The current valuation implies that everything will be sold, including the oil under the ground, he wrote to his followers on Twitter. It is neither fair nor logical to sell the oil from under our feet in a commercial transaction at this juncture. If all the oil is sold, and we take its price in cash, and then we still fail to diversify, then well have nothing left, no diversified economy and no oil either. He later deleted Tweets as well as others. He said the oil does not belong to the government but to the Saudi people, said Mr Baghdadi. You cant exactly sell it without having a national conversation, and then he went on to say you cant do that without free speech. The plan to take Aramco public has now been put on hold until at least next year amid economic troubles that have rattled the kingdom. The Saudi economy contracted 1 per cent last year on low oil prices and for the exact reasons Essam gave, said Mr Baghdadi. Istanbul (AFP) - Mystery surrounded the whereabouts of a prominent Saudi critic on Thursday after Riyadh announced he had left their consulate in Istanbul -- but Turkey and his fiancee said he had not been heard from since entering the building. Jamal Khashoggi, a contributor to the Washington Post, went to the Saudi consulate on Tuesday to receive an official document for his marriage. His fiancee reported him missing after the journalist, who has lived in self-imposed exile in the US since last year to avoid possible arrest, was not seen to emerge. The former government adviser, has been critical of some policies of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Riyadh's intervention in the war in Yemen. After an initial period of silence Saudi Arabia said the consulate was working with Turkish authorities "to uncover the circumstances of the disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi after he left the consulate building" in a statement published Thursday by the state-run SPA news agency. A senior Turkish official however said on Wednesday the journalist was being held at the consulate. "According to information we have, this individual who is a Saudi national is still at the Istanbul consulate of Saudi Arabia," presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin told reporters in Ankara. He said the Turkish foreign ministry and police were closely monitoring the case, adding that Ankara was in touch with Saudi officials. Khashoggi's Turkish fiancee has been waiting outside the consulate since Wednesday morning. "I haven't received any news from him since 1 pm (1000 GMT) on Tuesday," 36-year-old Hatice, who would not give her family name, told AFP as she stood near barricades. She said Khashoggi had left his mobile phone with her. "We want to know his whereabouts. Where is Jamal?" she said. "We want him to come out of the consulate safe and sound." - 'Very concerned' - The US State Department said it was investigating the matter. Story continues "We... are very concerned about where he may be," the Washington Post's international opinions editor, Eli Lopez, said in a statement late Tuesday. "It would be unfair and outrageous if he has been detained for his work as a journalist and commentator," Lopez said. Turan Kislakci, a friend of Khashoggi and head of the Turkish-Arab Media Association, told AFP: "We are certain that Jamal is being held inside unless the consulate has a tunnel." Hatice said Khashoggi had gone to the consulate to obtain documents for their own marriage to prove he was not married. Reporters Without Borders said Khashoggi's disappearance was "extremely worrying," calling on Saudi and Turkish authorities "to do everything to ensure that this journalist reappears free - as soon as possible." The Committee to Protect Journalists said the Saudi's disappearance was a cause for alarm "given the Saudi authorities' pattern of quietly detaining critical journalists". In an article written for the Post in September 2017, Khashoggi wrote: "When I speak of the fear, intimidation, arrests and public shaming of intellectuals and religious leaders who dare to speak their minds, and then I tell you that I'm from Saudi Arabia, are you surprised?" At about the same time, Khashoggi said he had been banned from contributing to the Al-Hayat daily, owned by Saudi Prince Khaled bin Sultan al-Saud. The writer admitted to defending the Muslim Brotherhood, which did not appear to please the newspaper. While Riyadh classifies the Brotherhood as a "terrorist organisation", Turkey is one of the group's main supporters. The hashtag "#kidnappingofJamalKhashoggi" was one of the most shared in Arabic on Twitter since Tuesday evening. Saudi Arabia, which ranks 169th out of 180 on the World Press Freedom Index issued by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), has launched a modernisation campaign since the 2017 appointment of Prince Mohammed as heir to the throne. But the ultra-conservative kingdom, which won plaudits in June for lifting a ban on women driving, has drawn heavy criticism for its handling of dissent. Khashoggi once said that before he left the kingdom, the Saudi government banned him from Twitter for warning "against an overly enthusiastic embrace of then-president-elect Donald Trump". He is one of the rare Saudi journalists to condemn repression in the country. In one of his last tweets, he criticised the lawsuit filed against a Saudi economist, Essam al-Zamel, after his arrest by Saudi authorities. Washington (AFP) - A veteran Saudi journalist who has been critical of the government has gone missing after visiting the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday, the Washington Post reported. Jamal Khashoggi, who writes opinion pieces for the Post, has not been seen since entering the consulate in the afternoon, according to his fiance who accompanied him but waited outside until it closed, the newspaper said. Khashoggi, a former government advisor who went into self-imposed exile in the United States last year to avoid possible arrest, has been critical of some of the policies of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Riyadh's intervention in the war in Yemen. "We have been unable to reach Jamal today and are very concerned about where he may be," the Post's international opinions editor Eli Lopez said in a statement. "We are monitoring the situation closely, trying to gather more information. It would be unfair and outrageous if he has been detained for his work as a journalist and commentator." The US State Department said it was investigating. "We have seen these reports and are seeking more information at this time," an official said. Khashoggi has written pieces critical of some of the crown prince's policies and said that before he left the kingdom the Saudi government banned him from Twitter "when I cautioned against an overly enthusiastic embrace of then-President-elect Donald Trump". In a Global Opinions piece for the Post in September last year, Khashoggi wrote: "When I speak of the fear, intimidation, arrests and public shaming of intellectuals and religious leaders who dare to speak their minds, and then I tell you that I'm from Saudi Arabia, are you surprised?" Saudi Arabia, which ranks 169th out of 180 on an RSF World Press Freedom Index, has promoted a modernization campaign since the 2017 appointment of Prince Mohammed as heir to the throne. But the ultraconservative kingdom, which won plaudits in June for finally lifting a ban on women driving, has drawn heavy criticism for its handling of dissent. Drinking water can help prevent UTIs [Photo: Getty] Anyone who has ever experienced the discomfort of a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) will know how darned unpleasant they can be. And youll likely do everything and anything you can to prevent them. But while women are constantly being told to chug the water to keep UTIs at bay, there has been little evidence to prove that it actually works. Until now. A randomised trial has found that women who do drink more water, do in fact suffer fewer infections. The study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, studied 140 premenopausal women experiencing recurrent cystitis who all drank less than 1.5l of water a day. Some of the women were asked to continue with their usual water intake while others were encouraged to drink an additional 1.5 Litres of water. The results revealed that cystitis episodes were significantly less frequent in the women who drank more water for 12 months compared with those who stuck to their usual intake. The women who stuck to their existing fluid intake averaged 3.2 urinary infections in one year, but those who drank extra water averaged just 1.7. This study is the first randomised clinical trial to evaluate increased hydration for prevention of recurrent cystitis in women, study authors explained. We demonstrated that increasing daily water intake over a 12-month period resulted in an approximately 50% reduction in frequency of cystitis recurrences and a similar reduction in use of antimicrobial regimens. In addition, there were significant increases in days to first cystitis recurrence and between episodes. Commenting on the findings lead author, Dr. Thomas M. Hooton, a professor of clinical medicine at the University of Miami told NY Times: We dont know what proportion of recurrent infections are in people who are low-volume drinkers. But we can now say there are data that show that if you want to reduce your U.T.I. risk, drink more fluids. A study has proven drinking more water can lead to fewer UTIs [Photo: Getty] UTIs are usually caused by bacteria from the gut entering your urinary tract. There are two different types of infection, lower and upper. Story continues Lower UTIs affect either the bladder or the uretha, while upper UTIs, which can be serious if left untreated, cause infections in the kidneys and the ureters (the tubes connecting your bladder to your kidneys). Those who have ever had a UTI will appreciate that both types cause a whole host of nasty symptoms including a burning feeling when you pee, an urgent need to go to the loo and cloudy, unpleasant-smelling urine. Upper UTIs can also cause additional symptoms, including a high temperature, pain in your sides or back, and sickness. The NHS website recommends seeing your GP any time you have symptoms especially those associated with an upper UTI. Your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics, and it can take between three to five days for the infection to clear completely. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for non-stop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. For Twitter updates, follow @YahooStyleUK. Read more from Yahoo Style UK: Cant Stop Going to the Bathroom? 4 Reasons Why Youre Peeing So Much Cut down on bacon and sausages to prevent breast cancer, researchers say Vaginisimus: the little-known condition making sex painful Theresa Mays government unveiled the highly-referenced Chequers plan in July, which provided a 100+ page blueprint for its Brexit vision. In a nutshell, Chequers was considered a compromise deal that covered a huge range of areas including the future of UK trade, security, borders, immigration and consumer protection issues. Its a plan that has vocal critics both in the UK and the European Union, particularly when it comes to the details on trade and economics. The plan led to the swift resignation of two senior Cabinet ministers. Heres an overview of the main things you need to know about the Chequers plan: Trade: Goods, not services The Chequers blueprint outlines that the UK would leave the European Unions Single Market, which allows for the free flow of goods, services, people and investment across the bloc. The UK would also leave the EUs Customs Union, which is a system that involves putting tariffs on goods from external nations before theyre allowed to come into the bloc. It wants to forge a new replacement system with the EU that would ensure free trade of goods between both sides, with no new tariffs or extra border checks. The plan acknowledges that there will be more barriers to the UKs access to the EU market than is the case today. Companies and economists have criticised the plan, saying the new customs arrangements would be very difficult to manage and the framework is half-baked. They also worry that the UK would be forced to continue following all EU regulations on goods. No one really believes this could work, said David Henig, a former UK trade negotiator and director of the European Centre for International Political Economy. Prime minister Theresa May arrives on stage to deliver her keynote speech during the Conservative Party annual conference in Birmingham on Wednesday. Photo: Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg Additionally, the plan acknowledges thered be new restrictions on trade in services, affecting British sectors including banking, legal and financial services. The plan for services describes new arrangements . that would provide regulatory flexibility but risks creating two separate systems that no longer work together seamlessly. Story continues Services is kind of left off as if its an afterthought, said Henig. Services made up about 80% of the UK economy last year, according to government figures. Experts worry the focus on goods instead of services would also create huge problems for modern companies that trade in both goods and services across the UK-EU border. For example, under this plan, a UK firm that builds, installs and maintains escalators could encounter problems since it provides a good an escalator but could have problems servicing, repairing and maintaining that escalator in the EU. The border issue The economic and trade proposals were designed to ensure there is no so-called hard border between Northern Ireland (part of the UK) and the Republic of Ireland (which will remain in the EU.) As it stands now, people, goods and even cows can move across the border without any checks, but there are concerns about whether this situation can be maintained after Brexit. The risk of a hard land border between the two sides is a politically explosive issue. The Chequers plan to allow free trade in goods would help keep that border open. In terms of the proposal, it is a reasonably decent attempt to satisfy all sides, said Dean Turner, an economist at UBS Wealth Management. [May] knows it is not ideal, but if accepted, it could work. The problem is, it will not be accepted by the EU. Related: What is a no-deal Brexit? WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee said she thought a Friday vote on the Supreme Court nomination of Brett Kavanaugh would not give senators enough time to evaluate the FBI probe of sexual misconduct allegations against him. "Well, I believe it is. I believe it's too soon," Senator Dianne Feinstein told reporters at the Capitol. "It's Tuesday and we have to put all the facts together." Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the chamber would vote this week on Kavanaugh, a conservative federal appeals court judge in Washington. (Reporting by Doina Chiacu; Editing by David Alexander) Stockholm (AFP) - US scientists Frances Arnold and George Smith and British researcher Gregory Winter won the Nobel Chemistry Prize on Wednesday for applying the principles of evolution to develop proteins used in everything from new biofuels to to the world's best-selling drug. Arnold, just the fifth woman to clinch chemistry's most prestigious honour since Marie Curie was honoured in 1911, won one half of the nine million Swedish kronor (about $1.01 million or 870,000 euros) award, while Smith and Winter shared the other half. "The 2018 Nobel Laureates in Chemistry have taken control of evolution and used it for purposes that bring the greatest benefit to humankind," the Swedish Royal Academy of Sciences said. Life on Earth exists because over the past 3.7 billion years organisms have adapted to their environment, with evolution solving complex chemical problems: fish can for example swim in polar oceans because they have antifreeze proteins in their blood. The trio used the principles of evolution -- genetic change and selection -- to develop proteins now used in a range of fields, in what is known as directed evolution. "They have applied the principles of Darwin in test tubes. They have used the molecular understanding we have of the evolutionary process and recreated the process in their labs," the head of the Academy's Nobel Chemistry committee, Claes Gustafsson, told reporters. "They have been able to make evolution many 1000s of times faster and redirect it to create new proteins." - 'Bouncing off the walls' - Arnold, 62, who has survived breast cancer and is a single mother to three sons, is a professor of chemical engineering at the California Institute of Technology. "I'm bouncing off the walls but I'm trying to pretend to sound calm and collected," she told the Nobel Foundation in an interview, adding she was "annoyed" she couldn't reach her sons to give them the news. Story continues "They never answer the phone when Mom calls." Her method of rewriting DNA to mimic evolution has helped solve problems such as replacing toxic chemicals like fossil fuels. As a result, renewable resources like sugar cane are being converted into biofuels. More environmentally friendly chemical substances are being developed, improving everyday products such as laundry and dishwashing detergents to enhance their performance in cold temperatures. "What I do is copy nature's design process. All this tremendous beauty and complexity of the biological world all comes about through this one simple beautiful design algorithm," she told the Foundation. "What I do is use that algorithm to build new biological things," she said. "Nature is solving all sorts of problems that we throw at her such as how to degrade plastic bottles, how to degrade pesticides and herbicides and antibiotics... she creates new enzymes in response to that all the time, in real time." - 'Great surprise' - Meanwhile, Smith, of the University of Missouri, and Winter, a 67-year-old genetic engineer at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology at Cambridge, developed an "elegant method" known as phage display, where a bacteriophage -- a virus that infects bacteria -- can be used to evolve new proteins, the jury said. Pharmaceuticals for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel diseases have resulted from their research, as well as antibodies that can neutralise toxins, counteract autoimmune diseases and in some cases cure metastatic cancer. The world's most sold prescription drug -- adalimumab, which treats rheumatoid arthritis and is sold by its trade name Humira -- is a result of their efforts. Alan Boyd, president of Britain's Faculty of Pharmaceutical Medicine, hailed the award. "The use of antibodies has resulted in a paradigm shift in the way that we now treat so many diseases which has brought significant benefits to patients across the world and will continue to do so for years to come," he said. Smith told the Foundation that the Nobel was a "great surprise". "I thought it was one of the numerous jokes like 'call coming in from Stockholm!' which is kind of like a meme." But there was "so much static on the line (I knew) that it had to be real." Alfred Nobel, who created the prizes in his will, was himself a chemist, and devised his famed awards in part to atone for inventing dynamite. The 2018 Nobel season continues on Friday with the announcement of the peace prize, and wraps up on Monday with the economics prize. For the first time since 1949, the Swedish Academy has postponed the announcement of the 2018 Nobel Literature Prize until next year, amid a #MeToo scandal and bitter internal dispute that has prevented it from functioning properly. As Republicans prepare for vote, Trump hints support could be withdrawn if investigation finds Kavanaugh lied to the Senate Donald Trump once again defended supreme court nominee Brett Kavanaugh on Tuesday, as Senate Republicans prepared to vote on the nomination this week. But the president also warned his support could be withdrawn if the FBI determines the judge lied to the Senate in testimony regarding an allegation of sexual assault. A lot is going to depend on what comes back from the FBI, Trump said. I dont think you should lie to Congress. For me that would not be acceptable. Speaking to reporters before flying to Philadelphia, the president said the #MeToo movement had created a very scary time for young men in America. Asked if he had a message for young women, Trump replied: Women are doing great. The Senate is awaiting the results of an investigation into three allegations. Well have an FBI report this week and well have a vote this week, majority leader Mitch McConnell told reporters. He would not say if that would be a final vote on the nomination or a move to allow the Senate to begin debate. The FBI will send a report to the Senate. McConnell said it would not be made public. He would not say how long senators would have to review it. Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has requested the Senate receives a full briefing on the report. He called on McConnell to release it. Why are our Republican colleagues so afraid of making this public? he said. Among Republicans, John Cornyn, No2 to McConnell, told reporters it was important that the results in some form be shared with the public. Democrats continued to decry the narrow scope of the investigation and to raise questions about Kavanaughs truthfulness and temperament. The judge gave testimony before the Senate judiciary committee last Thursday, after his first accuser, Dr Christine Blasey Ford. For Democrats, Kavanaughs anger opened a new line of attack. Story continues On the Senate floor on Tuesday, Schumer said Kavanaughs testimony was riddled with misstatements and inaccuracies and grossly mischaracterized his relationship with alcohol. Even if you feel that what happened when he was 15 and 18 shouldnt matter, what happens when hes 53 does matter and his credibility is in real doubt, Schumer said. Doubt enough, I think, for most Americans to say, This man does not belong on the supreme court. Moments earlier,McConnell, had accused Democrats of engaging in the politics of personal destruction against a stunningly qualified nominee. Democrats may be trying to move the goalposts every five minutes but their goal has not moved an inch, he said. They will not be satisfied unless they have brought down Judge Kavanaughs nomination. Kavanaugh has vehemently denied all of the allegations against him, from Ford and two other women. His confirmation hinges on a small group of Republicans who have not revealed how they will vote: Jeff Flake of Arizona, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska. Flake said on Tuesday he was very troubled by the tone of Kavanaughs remarks, especially his exchanges with Democrats on the judiciary committee. The interaction with the members was sharp and partisan and that concerns me, Flake said at the Atlantic Festival in Washington. I tell myself: You give a little leeway because of what hes been through. But on the other hand, we cant have this on the court. We simply cant. Flake told the Guardian he and the Delaware Democrat Chris Coons were working with White House counsel Don McGahn to expand the FBI investigation. Senator Lindsey Graham, a key Kavanaugh backer, urged colleagues to not quit. It is incredibly important we do not legitimize these smears and attempts at character assassination for the good of the court, the future of the Senate and the character of our nation, the South Carolina Republican said. Graham has said that if Kavanaugh fails, Trump should renominate him. In a statement to the Portland Press Herald, a spokeswoman for Collins said she, Murkowski and Flake thought the FBI check would help the Senate decide. That would include the allegations that were brought by Julie Swetnick, the statement said, referring to the third woman to come forward, after Ford and Deborah Ramirez. Swetnick accused Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct at drunken high school parties. Late on Tuesday, Republicans on the judiciary committee released a statement by Dennis Ketterer, a former Washington TV weatherman and, he said, an ex-boyfriend of Swetnick. The statement described her alleged sexual preferences and speculated about her mental health. Swetnicks lawyer, Michael Avenatti, called Ketterers claims garbage, said Republicans were desperate and demanded the FBI interview my client & him. Avenatti also published a declaration from another witness who said she could attest to the truthfulness of Swetnicks claims. Lawyers for Ford said she had yet to be contacted and said it was inconceivable the FBI could conduct a thorough inquiry without her. A lawyer for Ramirez said she spoke to the FBI for two hours on Sunday and provided a list of 20 witnesses who could corroborate her account. We are not aware of the FBI affirmatively reaching out to any of those witnesses, said John Clune. Though we appreciated the agents who responded on Sunday, we have great concern that the FBI is not conducting or not being permitted to conduct a serious investigation. The FBI has interviewed Mark Judge, a friend of Kavanaugh named by Ford and Swetnick as a key witness, PJ Smyth, another classmate who Ford said was at a gathering on the night of her alleged assault, and Leland Keyser, Fords high school friend who does not remember the party. A police report obtained by the New York Times, meanwhile, showed Kavanaugh was questioned by police following an altercation at a bar in 1985. The incident was made public after Yale classmate Charles Ludington accused Kavanaugh of being untruthful in his testimony. Schumer pointed to the reports as evidence that Kavanaugh had not been truthful. McConnell mocked the story. Welcome to another round of Capitol Hill lawmakers responding to President Donald Trumps sexist remarks, this time after he mocked Christine Blasey Ford, who has accused Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her when they were teenagers. It made me feel sort of sick, Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) told CNN Wednesday morning, hours after Trump ridiculed Fords accusation at a campaign rally amid laughter and shouts of lock her up. I dont understand why he felt he had to do that. Trump used Fords powerful testimony as a political rally punchline, King added, and it wont serve him well with senators who are swing votes on Kavanaughs nomination particularly Republican Sens. Lisa Murkowski (Alaska), Susan Collins (Maine) and Jeff Flake (Ariz.). Flake, a vocal Trump critic who has nevertheless rubber-stamped Trump policies and appointees in the past, on Wednesday called the presidents rally attack on Ford kind of appalling. Well, there is no time and no place for remarks like that, but to discuss something this sensitive at a political rally is just not right, Flake said on NBCs Today show. I wish he hadnt have done it. Collins told reporters on Capitol Hill that Trumps attacks were just plain wrong. Sen. Susan Collins, a key GOP swing vote, on President Trump mocking Kavanuagh accuser Christine Blasey Ford: "The President's comments were just plain wrong" pic.twitter.com/dxMloIh25Q CNN Politics (@CNNPolitics) October 3, 2018 Asked about Trumps comments, Murkowski said they were wholly inappropriate and in my view unacceptable. On whether they would affect her vote on Kavanaugh, I am taking everything into account, she said. Trump, in an angry rant at a Mississippi rally Tuesday night, stuck up for Kavanaugh against the sexual assault claims and openly mocked Fords Senate testimony. Story continues So many different charges, Trump said of Kavanaugh. Guilty until proven innocent. ... Thats very dangerous for our country. I have it myself all the time. Let it happen to me. Shouldnt happen to him. The White House stood by Trumps attacks. The president was stating facts, press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said Wednesday. Even Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), one of Kavanaughs fiercest defenders on the Senate Judiciary Committee, said, I didnt particularly like Trumps attack on Ford. I would tell him, knock it off. Youre not helping, Graham said Wednesday at The Atlantic Festival in Washington. But Graham defended Trumps rant as a factual rendition, questioning Fords accusation and arguing Kavanaugh was treated like crap. Other Kavanaugh defenders similarly expressed some concern that Trumps comments were not helpful. I wish he would just stay out of it, Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) told reporters. Several Republicans refused to comment. Youd have to ask the president, Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) said, before disappearing into a Senate elevator. Sen. Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) said: I dont really comment a lot on other peoples comments despite commenting on Trump in the past, including expressing the fear that the president might lead the U.S. into World War III. Scores of Republicans in the past have condemned Trumps misogyny especially after the release of the 2005 Access Hollywood outtake of him bragging about groping women but backed him anyway. Trumps vicious remarks were another chapter in his long history of attacking sexual assault accusers and siding with their alleged abusers. During his presidential campaign, Trump accused of sexual misconduct by at least 20 women denigrated some by suggesting they were not attractive enough to be sexually assaulted. She is a liar, Trump said of People magazine reporter Natasha Stoynoff, who revealed in 2016 that Trump attacked her while she was writing a profile of him in 2005. Check out her Facebook page, youll understand. He said of another accuser: She would not be my first choice, that I can tell you. Pointing to yet another, he said: Look at her. I dont think so. Three women have accused Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct when he was in high school or college. Ford testified movingly how, when they were in high school, the future nominee and a friend pushed her into a room, where a drunken Kavanaugh held her down, groped her and held his hand over her mouth when she tried to scream. Flake led calls from Senate moderates for an FBI probe into the allegations before the full Senate votes on Kavanaughs confirmation. Flake said Sunday that Kavanaughs nomination will be over if the probe shows he lied in his Senate testimony. Kavanaugh appears to have been evasive or dishonest about multiple topics, including his drinking. This article has been updated to include more comments from senators. Igor Bobic contributed reporting. Related Coverage Donald Trump Has A Very, Very Long History Of Not Believing Women Trump Repeats Lie That Women Who Accused Him Of Sexual Misconduct Were 'Paid A Lot Of Money' Trump Mocks Christine Blasey Fords Testimony And Me Too Movement At Mississippi Rally Trump Keeps Denying His Sexual Misconduct, But Calls Out Other Alleged Predators Donald Trump Mocks Women Who Accused Him Of Sexual Assault Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. New York (AFP) - The New York state tax department said Tuesday it is investigating reports that President Donald Trump helped his parents dodge millions of dollars in taxes and received far more money from his father's real estate empire than he has claimed in the past. Earlier, The New York Times said its own exhaustive probe of a vast trove of tax returns and confidential records showed Trump had engaged in suspect tax tactics, including "outright fraud" that greatly inflated the funds he received from his parents. Trump has stated on numerous occasions that he received little help from his father, New York property developer Fred Trump, in building his fortune. "The Tax Department is reviewing the allegations in the NYT article and is vigorously pursuing all appropriate avenues of investigation," New York state Taxation and Financing spokesman James Gazzale told AFP. The Times said Trump received the equivalent of $413 million in today's dollars from his father's real estate activities -- having earned $200,000 a year in today's dollars by age three. By age eight, he was already a millionaire. Trump was receiving the equivalent of $1 million a year from his father shortly after his college graduation, it added, noting that the funds grew to more than $5 million per year when he was in his 40s and 50s. The Times said the bulk of the funds owed to tax evasion tactics that Trump helped devise, including a "sham corporation" he and his siblings created to hide millions of dollars in gifts from their parents. There were also millions of dollars in improper tax deductions and Trump helped further reduce his parents' tax bill by undervaluing their real estate holdings by hundreds of millions of dollars on tax returns, according to the Times. The newspaper said Trump's parents, Fred and Mary Trump, who died respectively in 1999 and 2000, transferred more than $1 billion in wealth to their five children. Story continues This could have produced a tax bill of at least $550 million but the Trumps paid a total of just $52.2 million, the Times said, citing tax records. - Trump lawyer issues denial - One of Trump's lawyers, Charles Harder, decried the newspaper's allegations as "100 percent false, and highly defamatory." "There was no fraud or tax evasion by anyone. The facts upon which The Times bases its false allegations are extremely inaccurate," he added. "President Trump had virtually no involvement whatsoever with these matters." Harder insisted the matter was mostly handled by other relatives who relied "entirely" upon licensed professionals to "ensure full compliance with the law." The White House, meanwhile said that "Many decades ago, the IRS reviewed and signed off on these transactions." Spokeswoman Sarah Sanders instead shifted blame onto the Times itself, saying "Perhaps another apology from The New York Times, like the one they had to issue after they got the 2016 election so embarrassingly wrong, is in order." The Times said Trump's tax-hating father used various methods to funnel his wealth to his children and shield it from the Internal Revenue Service, some of which tax experts said was improper or possibly illegal. Among the tactics, Fred Trump gave ownership of most of his real estate empire to his children a year and a half before his death. The properties were valued at just $41.4 million although they were sold off over the next decade for more than 16 times that amount, it said. The Times said Trump got a cut of $177.3 million, or $236.2 million in today's dollars, from the sale. Breaking with the practice of past presidents, Trump has refused so far to release his tax returns. Citing tax experts, the Times said Trump was unlikely to face criminal prosecution for helping his parents evade taxes but could face civil fines for tax fraud if the matter is pursued by the authorities. President Trump on Tuesday lashed out at the New York Times over its yearlong investigation into his finances. The Failing New York Times did something I have never seen done before, Trump tweeted. They used the concept of time value of money in doing a very old, boring and often told hit piece on me. Added up, this means that 97% of their stories on me are bad. Never recovered from bad election call! The time value of money is a term in economics that reflects the fact that money available at the present time is worth more than the same amount in the future due to its potential earning capacity. Trump himself referenced the concept in his 1987 book, The Art of the Deal. President Trump (Yahoo News photo Illustration; photos: Evan Vucci/AP, NYT) But the Times article translated figures from decades ago into 2018 dollars by adjusting for inflation. It does not appear to have calculated time value of money. Its also unclear where the president got the 97 percent figure. According to the Times report, published Tuesday, Trump participated in dubious tax schemes during the 1990s, including instances of outright fraud, that greatly increased the fortune he received from his parents. Throughout his presidential campaign, Trump described himself as a self-made billionaire who received a small loan from his father, Fred Trump. But according to the Times, Trump received the equivalent today of at least $413 million from his fathers real estate empire, starting when he was a toddler and continuing to this day. Much of this money came to Mr. Trump because he helped his parents dodge taxes, the Times said. He and his siblings set up a sham corporation to disguise millions of dollars in gifts from their parents, records and interviews show. Records indicate that Mr. Trump helped his father take improper tax deductions worth millions more. He also helped formulate a strategy to undervalue his parents real estate holdings by hundreds of millions of dollars on tax returns, sharply reducing the tax bill when those properties were transferred to him and his siblings. Story continues The New York state taxation authority said it is reviewing the allegations in the NYT article and is vigorously pursuing all appropriate avenues of investigation. The White House responded to the report in a lengthy statement attributed to press secretary Sarah Sanders. Fred Trump has been gone for nearly twenty years and its sad to witness this misleading attack against the Trump family by the failing New York Times, she said. Many decades ago the IRS reviewed and signed off on these transactions. The New York Times and other media outlets credibility with the American people is at an all time low because they are consumed with attacking the president and his family 24/7 instead of reporting the news. Fred Trump and Donald Trump (Photo: Adam Scull/Photolink/MediaPunch/IPX/AP) The truth is the market is at an all-time high, unemployment is at a fifty year low, taxes for families and businesses have been cut, wages are up, farmers and workers are empowered from better trade deals, and Americas military is stronger than ever, she continued. Yet the New York Times can rarely find anything positive about the President and his tremendous record of success to report. Perhaps another apology from the New York Times, like the one they had to issue after they got the 2016 election so embarrassingly wrong, is in order. At a rare White House briefing on Wednesday afternoon, Sanders called the Times report a false attack, but refused to detail which assertions in the story were untrue. Im not going to sit and go through every single line of a very boring 14,000-word story, she said, adding: The one thing the article did get right was that it showed that the presidents father actually had a great deal of confidence in him. In fact, the president brought his father into a lot of deals. They made a lot of money together, so much so that his father went on to say that everything he touched turned to gold. Trump who as a candidate refused to release his income tax forms has obsessed over estimates of his net wealth and sparred with reporters who dared to challenge his own valuation. This year, Jonathan Greenberg, a former Forbes reporter, described the lengths Trump went to in order to be placed higher on the magazines annual ranking of Americas richest people. According to Greenberg, Trump once called him pretending to be his spokesman, using the name John Barron. (Barron, it was later revealed, was an alter ego used by Trump.) Trump later had his lawyer, Roy Cohn, intervene. This is Roy. Roy Cohn! Cohn said during one call recorded by Greenberg. Donny tells me youre putting together this list of rich people. He says youve got him down for just $200 million! Thats way too low, way too low! ___ Read more from Yahoo News: Washington (AFP) - A one-time classmate of President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee said Monday that Brett Kavanaugh was a habitual heavy drinker, challenging the judge's Senate testimony to the contrary. The comments came days after the FBI opened a Senate-requested probe into allegations by three women that a drunken Kavanaugh sexually abused them or engaged in sexual misconduct while they were students in the 1980s. "I can unequivocally say that in denying the possibility that he ever blacked out from drinking and in downplaying the degree and frequency of his drinking, Brett has not told the truth," Chad Ludington told reporters. The North Carolina State University professor, who said he had contacted the FBI with his information, indicated in a statement Sunday that Kavanaugh was "belligerent and aggressive" when he drank. Earlier, Trump had defended his pick but admitted that the appeals court judge has had a "bit of difficulty" with alcohol. In a White House press conference, the US president sought to excuse excessive drinking by teenagers, while going beyond Kavanaugh's own testimony on his past use of alcohol to the Senate Judiciary Committee last week. "I was surprised at how vocal he was about the fact that he likes beer," the president said. "He's had a little bit of difficulty. He talked about things that happened when he drank. This is not a man that said... he was perfect with respect to alcohol." He also questioned why investigators needed to examine the 53-year-old Kavanaugh's high school record. "I think it's very unfair to bring up things like this," Trump said. "I graduated from high school and while I did not drink, I saw a lot of people drinking," he said. "They drink beer and go crazy and they were in high school... Does that mean that they can't do something they want to do in their life?" He returned to the theme during a campaign rally in Tennessee, where he accused opposition Democrats of being motivated by politics. Story continues "They have been blind in a blind rage ever since they lost the 2016. They have gone loco," he told supporters. - 'I like beer' - In Thursday's extraordinary hearing, Kavanaugh vehemently denied the sexual abuse allegations, and also aggressively challenged suggestions he had a drinking problem at the time. "I drank beer with my friends. Sometimes I had too many beers," he told the panel. "Yes, we drank beer. I liked beer. I still like beer," he said. "If every American who drinks beer or every American who drank beer in high school is suddenly presumed guilty of sexual assault, it will be an ugly, new place in this country." The New York Times also reported that Kavanaugh was questioned but not charged by police after a 1985 bar fight in New Haven, Connecticut where he was accused of throwing ice on a fellow patron. A witness said that a friend of Kavanaugh's then threw a glass that hit the same patron in the ear, causing bleeding. US media meanwhile reported that the FBI had begun their interview of Mark Judge, Kavanaugh's former best friend and a key figure in the misconduct allegations leveled by Christine Blasey Ford. Judge's interview started but "has not been completed," his attorney said in a statement quoted by Fox News. In last week's hearing, Blasey Ford said Judge witnessed Kavanaugh's alleged assault and jumped on top of them as it happened, sending all three tumbling and allowing her to escape. - Clock ticking - Trump meanwhile said the White House would not restrict the new FBI probe, requested by senators before they take a final vote on Kavanaugh. "I think the FBI should do what they have to do to get to the answer," Trump said. "I want it to be comprehensive... With that being said, I would like to go quickly," he added. "We don't want to go on a witch hunt, do we?" Senators, including Republican Jeff Flake, struck a deal Friday that gives the FBI one week to conduct its investigation and deliver its report. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the Senate, made up of 51 Republicans and 49 Democrats, will be "voting this week" on advancing the Kavanaugh nomination, setting up a possible final confirmation vote this weekend or early next week. "The time for endless delay and obstruction has come to a close," McConnell said. Last week, Flake expressed eagerness to see Kavanaugh confirmed but said he wanted a "better process" for assessing the allegations. Flake said over the weekend that he would vote for Kavanaugh unless the FBI finds something in its investigation. Its a very scary time for young men in America," the president said. (Photo: Leah Millis / Reuters) President Donald Trump on Tuesday afternoon suggested it would not be acceptable if his Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh were found to have lied to Congress. I dont think you should lie to Congress and there have been a lot of people over the last year that have lied to Congress, Trump told reporters gathered on the White House lawn. For me, that would not be acceptable. The presidents comments echo those made by Sen. Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) on Sunday. Flake said lying to the Senate Judiciary Committee would be an immediate dealbreaker on the nominee for him. Trump also said he believes Kavanaugh is doing very well right now, but added that the judges fate will depend on the FBI. Last Friday, the president asked the FBI to reopen its background investigation on Kavanaugh specifically to look into the sexual misconduct allegations against him. Republicans insist the agency must complete its report this week. A lot is going to depend on what comes back from the FBI in terms of their additional ... investigation, Trump said. Last Thursday, the Senate Judiciary Committee heard from Christine Blasey Ford, the psychology professor who has accused Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her in 1982. Kavanaugh was also given a chance to respond to the allegations, which he angrily denied. The next day, the committee voted yes on the nomination along party lines under a gentlemens and -womens agreement that the FBI would investigate. Its a very scary time for young men in America, Trump told reporters. Media reports and evidence provided by Kavanaugh himself have already turned up certain falsehoods in the judges Senate testimony. A statement made by Blasey friend Leland Keyser does not, as Kavanaugh repeatedly told the committee, refute Blaseys story. Various inscriptions in his high school yearbook almost certainly refer to sexual claims and vomiting from intoxication instead of the more PG-rated explanations given by Kavanaugh. And interviews with several past classmates and roommates paint the judge as a heavy drinker from high school through college, despite his insistence that he never drank to the point of blacking out. Story continues The FBI has so far interviewed at least four people, three of whom were allegedly at the party where Blasey said she was assaulted. The fourth, Deborah Ramirez, accuses Kavanaugh of thrusting his exposed penis in her face at a college party. On Monday, a new allegation surfaced: During his college years, Kavanaugh was once involved in a bar fight in which he was accused of throwing ice at another man. The alcohol-related belligerence raises concern among Kavanaughs critics, some of whom argue that the judge lacks the right temperament to serve on the Supreme Court. Related Coverage Christine Blasey Ford Is The 'Perfect' Accuser. Most Sexual Assault Survivors Are Not. Christine Blasey Ford Didn't Have The Luxury Of Being Angry All The Lies Brett Kavanaugh Told Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. What does it look like when a deserving student gets a $100,000 scholarship from Beyonce and Jay-Z? Watch the video above and try not to tear up. Emily Garay and her friends from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade went to see the Carters in concert in September, and the night did not go as expected in the best way possible. Garays emotional reaction to winning the scholarship from BeyGood and the Shawn Carter Foundation is pure joy. The generous gift moves Garay one huge step closer to fulfilling her dream of becoming a police officer. Her future plans? To get a masters in criminology from Florida International University as well as a masters in marketing, she told Yahoo Lifestyle. Before the huge gift from Bey and Jay, Garay and her parents, who are from Colombia and Nicaragua, were worried that they wouldnt have the means to pay for her college. My mom was thinking of working two jobs. My dad, he was just stressing," she told CBS Miami. The scholarship from the power couple, aka Garays angels, was the perfect surprise: As a Latina, it's really hard to get opportunities like this, especially as a woman, and it meant the world to me, she told Yahoo Lifestyle. Beyonce and Jay-Z werent the only ones in a giving mood. Miamis own DJ Khaled matched the scholarship, giving 17-year-old Jonathon Burgos $100,000. Burgos plans to become an electrical engineer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Nominated by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, the two deserving students were selected based on their 3.0 (or better) grade point average, overall motivation, and future goals. Garay joined the club when she was 9 years old. They have taught me so many things that have been pivotal throughout my childhood," she said. Bey and Jay have awarded $100,000 scholarships at each of the cities on their On the Run II tour, including San Diego and Pasadena, Calif.; New Orleans; Houston; and Vancouver, British Columbia. The tour wraps Oct. 4 in Seattle. LONDON (Reuters) - British prosecutors plan to seize three properties in Britain and other assets in a corruption case involving Gulnara Karimova, the elder daughter of late Uzbek ex-president Islam Karimov. The UK Serious Fraud Office (SFO) said on Wednesday it had issued a claim for civil recovery in the High Court in a case about the proceeds of alleged corrupt telecoms deals in Uzbekistan involving Karimova and another Uzbek national, Rustam Madumarov. The Uzbek Prosecutor General's office said last year that Karimova was in custody following a conviction for embezzlement. Her Swiss lawyer has said she has been "detained arbitrarily". He was not immediately available for comment. The SFO said in a brief statement that a court hearing would be listed in due course. (Reporting by Kirstin Ridley; Editing by Hugh Lawson) United Nations (United States) (AFP) - The UN Security Council is heading to the Democratic Republic of Congo this week ahead of December elections, amid tensions between Congolese authorities and the UN and concerns over a risk of poll violence. The UN wants "free, fair and peaceful elections," Karel Van Oosterom, Dutch ambassador to the global organization said Wednesday. Van Oosterom will be among those in the Security Council delegation, joined by representatives from the United States, Bolivia, France and Equatorial Guinea. The trip is planned Thursday to Monday and will be limited to Kinshasa. The council hopes to meet with President Joseph Kabila, his prime minister and foreign minister, as well as the election commission and other stakeholders. Diplomats will also meet UN peacekeepers via video links. The DR Congo hosts the UN's biggest peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, with some 17,500 troops and police. Last week, Kabila called on the UN General Assembly to make a "substantial" start to withdrawing troops from his country. Kabila vowed to "oppose any interference in the electoral process under way" and said the DR Congo would cover the full cost of the elections. Britain, France and the United States have urged Kabila to state clearly that he would not seek another term amid fears that his failure to step aside could trigger violence. The DR Congo has not known a peaceful transition of power since independence from Belgium in 1960. Diplomats said friction between the UN mission and Kabila is leading to difficulties in flying aircraft to supply Moroccan and Indonesian UN troops. "They are very fussy about giving approvals," said one diplomat. The UN will also discuss the fight against the Ebola epidemic in the east of the country, which was the subject of a closed Security Council meeting Wednesday. "Members of Security Council highlighted the urgency of the medical response because the disease can spread rapidly, including to neighboring countries, possibly impacting regional stability," the Council said in a statement. DC Congo's 10th Ebola outbreak since the first known case in 1976 came on August 1 in a highly restive northeastern region home to a clutch of armed groups near the border with Uganda, Rwanda and South Sudan. The latest outbreak has killed at least 101 people, according to the World Health Organization. Washington (AFP) - The United States on Wednesday called an international court ruling against its Iran sanctions a defeat for Tehran as it terminated a 1955 treaty on which the case was based. The International Criminal Court ordered the United States to lift sanctions on medicine, food and civilian airplane spare parts, just as President Donald Trump tries to squeeze Iran's economy. But Secretary of State Mike Pompeo noted that the UN court did not rule more broadly against US sanctions and he insisted that the United States already exempted humanitarian goods from the sanctions. "The court's ruling today was a defeat for Iran. It rightly rejected all of Iran's baseless requests," Pompeo told reporters. Accusing Iran of "abusing the ICJ for political and propaganda purposes," Pompeo announced that the United States was ending a friendship treaty signed when Iran was ruled by the pro-US shah. "This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue," Pompeo said, referring to the time since the 1979 Islamic revolution transformed Iran from one of the closest allies to a determined foe. "Given Iran's history of terrorism, ballistic missile activity and other malign behaviors, Iran's claims under the treaty are absurd," he said. The Treaty of Amity with Iran, signed in 1955 and ratified by the US Senate a year later, lays out practicalities for unfettered economic relations and consular rights between the two countries. The US withdrawal will have limited direct effect, with the two countries not even having diplomatic relations. But Iran has repeatedly cited the treaty to press claims from the United States, including when the US Navy shot down an Iran Air civilian plane in 1988, killing 290 people. Ankara (AFP) - A lawyer for the US pastor whose two-year detention in Turkey led to a bitter row with Washington said on Wednesday he had appealed to the constitutional court for the American's release. Pastor Andrew Brunson has been under house arrest at his home in the western city of Izmir since July and was previously held in jail after being detained in October 2016 on terror-related charges. His lawyer, Cem Halavurt, told AFP that he had applied to the court on Tuesday afternoon, although he previously said he would apply on Wednesday morning. The next hearing in Brunson's case is on October 12 and there are growing expectations that he will be permitted to return to the United States. Halavurt said the constitutional court "procedure can take a few months" after making the application via a court in Istanbul. Brunson, who ran a small evangelical Protestant church in Izmir and lived in Turkey for since 1993, is at the centre of tensions between Ankara and Washington. He faces up to 35 years in jail if convicted on charges of carrying out activities on behalf of two groups deemed by Turkey to be terror organisations -- one led by US-based Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen who Ankara says was behind the failed 2016 coup and the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). Brunson and US officials insist he is innocent of all charges. Relations were further strained after he was put under house arrest and Washington's decision to impose sanctions on two Turkish ministers, and double steel and aluminium tariffs in August, sparking a dramatic fall in the value of the Turkish lira. But there have been signs that tensions could ease after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he was hopeful Turkey would release the pastor while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday said he hoped Ankara could rebuild relations with its NATO ally. Vietnam's former Communist Party leader Do Muoi, a revolutionary who broke out of a French prison and later led the controversial push to dismantle private businesses after the Vietnam War, died late Monday at age 101, officials said. Muoi, a party member for nearly 80 years, passed away in a military hospital in Hanoi following a long illness, the government and state media said. "Comrade Do Muoi... made many great contributions to the revolutionary cause of the party and the nation," the official state-run Vietnam News Agency said Tuesday. Born in Hanoi in 1917, Muoi joined Ho Chi Minh's communist revolution at age 19, eager to expel Vietnam's French colonial rulers who were eventually overthrown in 1954. His revolutionary activities landed him in Hanoi's infamous Hoa Lo prison in 1941 -- later dubbed the 'Hanoi Hilton' by American POWs, including John McCain, imprisoned there during the Vietnam War. Muoi escaped four years later by slipping out of his prison uniform and fleeing via a sewer drain. Muoi spent much of his political career climbing party ranks, eventually joining the politburo in 1982 and gaining a reputation as a conservative ideologue. After the Vietnam War ended in 1975, he led a campaign dubbed "X2" to dismantle tens of thousands of private enterprises in the south -- then the economic engine of the newly-unified country. He made no secret of his anti-capitalist views and became known for an infamous motto. "Capitalists are like sewer rats, whenever one sees them popping up one must smash them to death!" he said, according to Nhan Tri Vo's book "Vietnam's Economic Policy Since 1975". He later admitted the X2 crusade was "a little too dogmatic", though he never took personal responsibility for the brutal campaign. But he retained his hardline reputation throughout the 1990s, decrying peasant protests against taxation as attempts to "sabotage" the state, and pushing for a compulsory labour scheme to rebuild the country's tattered infrastructure. Story continues Muoi eventually fell in step with the party's embrace of "Doi Moi" economic reforms starting in the 1980s, which saw Vietnam slowly open its doors to privatisation and foreign investment. And as party leader -- he held the powerful title from 1991 to 1997 -- he oversaw the government's push to normalise relations with Washington in 1995. But repairing ties with the former wartime foe came with conditions. In 1997 he told then-US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright that Washington should help Vietnam recover from "consequences left by the war, including rehabilitation for handicapped people and consequences caused by the Agent Orange", according to the party's official newspaper. Muoi's death comes after Vietnam's president Tran Dai Quang died in Hanoi on September 21 at age 61. He is expected to be given a state funeral, though details have not yet been released. WASHINGTON President Trumps top national security adviser, John Bolton, dismissed the Palestinian territories as a so-called state during an appearance in the White House press briefing on Wednesday. Though he emphatically declared that Palestine is not a state, Bolton said it could become one and reiterated Trumps support for a two-state solution to the ongoing dispute between Israel and Palestine. Bolton brought up the situation when he discussed a pair of steps the Trump administration is taking to shield itself from binding decisions made by the International Court of Justice, which is the U.N. body that resolves international disputes. Bolton said politicized use of the court led the U.S. to exit the 1955 treaty of amity with Iran. Bolton also announced that the U.S. would withdraw from what he called the optional protocol in the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The moves come after a ruling from the court that American sanctions against Iran were a violation of the 1955 treaty and after a complaint made by the Palestinians about the Trump administrations decision to move the U.S. embassy in Israel last December. The president has decided that the United States will withdraw from the optional protocol and dispute resolution to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. This is in connection with a case brought by the so-called state of Palestine naming the United States as a defendant challenging our move of our embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, Bolton said. President Trump expressed support for a two-state solution at the U.N. General Assembly last week. The presidents son-in-law and top adviser, Jared Kushner, has been working on a peace plan that is highly anticipated in the region and due to be unveiled soon. While the White House has a strong relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, this planning has proceeded without input from the Palestinians, who cut off contact with the U.S. in the wake of the embassy move. Since then, the Trump administration has cut aid and shuttered the Palestinians mission in Washington. Story continues U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton speaks during a briefing in the Brady Briefing Room of the White House in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 3, 2018. (Photo: Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images) Bolton was subsequently questioned about whether his characterization of Palestine as a so-called state was productive, given Trumps stated goal of a two-state solution. While he said Trump does support the creation of two states in the region, Bolton described his characterization of Palestines current status as accurate. Of course its not a state now. It does not meet the customary international law test of statehood. It doesnt control defined boundaries. It doesnt fulfill the normal functions of government. There are a whole host of reasons why its not a state. It could become a state, as the president said, but that requires diplomatic negotiations with Israel and others. The Palestinian territories include the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. The majority of the West Bank is under Israeli military control, but portions of it are under the joint control of Israel and the Palestinian authority. The Gaza Strip is governed by Hamas, but Israel maintains control of its airspace and coastline. While the U.S. does not recognize Palestine as a state, 137 of the 193 U.N. member countries do. Bolton went on to say that his view of Palestine was in line with a position that the United States government has pursued uniformly since 1988, when the Palestinian Authority declared itself to be the state of Palestine. We dont recognize it as the state of Palestine, Bolton said. We have consistently across Democratic and Republican administrations opposed the admission of Palestine to the United Nations as a state because its not a state. After Trump expressed support for a two-state solution, Netanyahu said that based on his conversations with the president, he was confident that the Americans understand that Israel would not relinquish security control in the region as part of the creation of a Palestinian state. At the briefing, Bolton was asked whether the Trump administrations peace plan would indeed call for Israel to retain security control. Weve been working, as you well know, on a peace plan involving Israel and the Palestinians. Well be rolling it out in due course when we decide its the most appropriate time to do it, and Im sure that will answer your question then, Bolton said. Read more from Yahoo News: Kuala Lumpur (AFP) - Rosmah Mansor, the flamboyant wife of Malaysia's former prime minister, was arrested Wednesday by the country's anti-graft agency over a multi-billion-dollar scandal. "Rosmah has been arrested," her lawyer K. Kumaraendran told AFP after she was questioned for hours at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). Her husband Najib Razak, 65, has already been hit with a string of charges including corruption and money laundering and is out on bail following his spectacular fall from power in May elections. The MACC in a statement said it arrested Rosmah, 66, in relation to money laundering investigations after getting approval from state prosecutors. "Following this, Rosmah will face a number of charges," it said, adding she will be brought to court early on Thursday to be charged. She is expected to spend the night at the MACC headquarters located in the administrative capital Putrajaya outside Kuala Lumpur. The woman was attacked on Rose Street in Queensland by a man she thought had stopped to help her (Google) A woman was rushed to hospital after she was brutally assaulted by who she thought was a Good Samaritan who had stopped to help fix her broken down car. The unnamed woman pulled over to the side of Rose Street in Queensland, Australia, after her white Nissan Patrol started to break down. A man driving a white ute with a sliver tray stopped in front of her car at around 6.15pm on Tuesday evening and offered to hep her fix the vehicle. Police in Australia are investigating the incident (Wikipedia/stock photo) The woman walked to the back of the car after the pair had been working for a few minutes and the man followed and smashed her head against the car, according to police. Investigators say the man continued to assault the woman after she had been knocked unconscious before fleeing. Police are now appealing for any information on the suspect in the attack. MORE: Schoolboy lied about sex with teacher to impress friends, court told MORE: Theresa May attempts to unite Tory party as she sees a future full of promise for post-Brexit Britain The man is described as white, aged between 30 to 40, with a chubby build, short dark hair and full dark beard and approximately 175cms tall. He was wearing a dark blue tradesman shirt with sleeves rolled up, matching shorts and tradesman style boots. The woman is recovering in hospital after suffering non-life-threatening injuries. Once upon a time, men made it physically impossible for women to become firefighters. But then one woman changed that forever. In 1977, after 117 years, New Yorks FDNY finally allowed women to apply to become firefighters but at the same time, they changed the physical test to make it the most arduous exam we have ever given, according to Alfred Heil, the assistant personnel director in charge of the test. Of the 90 women who took the test, all 90 failed. One, a 28-year-old law student named Brenda Berkman, was not going down without a fight. She sued the FDNY for gender discrimination. Now 66, she recalls to Makers, It really was intended to send a very clear message [of] You are not wanted here. Berkman won her lawsuit in 1982 and, after taking another physical test, was able to join the FDNY along with 41 other women. But the heat was still on, as the women faced overt and serious abuse from male firefighters, from death threats to sexual assault. They messed with my protective gear, they drained my air tanks. Dead rats put in our pockets, our boots pissed in, she recounts in the video above. Still, she stayed a vital member of the force for 24 years and was eventually promoted to captain, paving the way for many others. Today 72 women are serving in the FDNY, which is the largest group in history. Since retiring, Berkman has been profiled many times in the media (as well as in a PBS documentary, Taking the Heat), served as a prestigious White House Fellow, and focused on her artistic passions, including printmaking (her work can be seen here). One person can make a change, she says. It may not be the easiest thing to do, but one person can make a change. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. Sydney (AFP) - After almost two decades of political wrangling Australia on Wednesday finally agreed to scrap its so-called "tampon tax". When Australia introduced a Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2000, health products such as condoms and sunscreen were exempt from the 10 percent charge, along with most foods. But tampons and other women's hygiene products were not. Since then, the "tampon tax" has drawn widespread fire, branded as "sexist" by campaigners, and a regular source of bickering between Canberra, and state and territory governments, which receive revenues from the GST. Australia's health minister in 2000 Michael Wooldridge set a dark trajectory for the tax when he suggested tampons should not be exempt as they did not "prevent illness". "As a bloke, I'd like shaving cream exempt, but I'm not expecting it to be," he told national broadcaster ABC, sparking a sharp public backlash. Years of outcry followed, with "stop taxing my period!" campaigns and staunch activism from groups like the "menstrual avengers". Leaders on both sides of politics flirted with the exemption, while others shied away, passing the buck onto state and territory governments. But on Wednesday a meeting of state and territory treasurers agreed unanimously to scrap the tax as of January, agreeing to forgo the reported Aud$30 million (US$21.5 million) in revenue it raised each year. "There has been a long and tortured history on GST when it comes to tampons and feminine hygiene products," the federal minister for women, Kelly O'Dwyer, told reporters. "I'm very happy to report that today we have been successful, the states and territories have come on board, and millions of Australian women will benefit as a result." The move came at a precarious time for the conservative governing coalition, as it seeks to increase its appeal to women amid complaints of bullying and intimidation from female MPs in its ranks. Story continues The complaints reached a crescendo last month during a party revolt which led to the ouster of moderate prime minister Malcolm Turnbull, and the resignation of foreign minister Julie Bishop, the highest-ranking woman in government. New Prime Minister Scott Morrison has resisted calls for his Liberal party to set a quota for women candidates in future elections, insisting the party selects "the best candidate" for the job. About 20 percent of Liberal MPs are women, compared to about 45 percent for the opposition Labour party, which maintains a quota for female participation. Late this summer, the Yakima Herald-Republic learned that Washington State Patrol troopers had found a man on the I-82 bridge north of Yakima, apparently contemplating suicide. The man was Yakima County Superior Court Judge Doug Federspiel. We learned the details of what happened on the bridge July 9 and basic information about what followed. We also investigated the process used by Washington courts to monitor the competency of its judges. Then, based on what we knew, we decided we would not do a story about Federspiel. At least not yet. We relied on guidance from the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics specifically, its second principle: minimize harm. The SPJ Code requires us to balance the publics right to know against the potential harm a story could inflict. Recognize that legal access to information differs from an ethical justification to publish or broadcast, the code states. We legally possessed detailed information about what happened to Federspiel on the bridge. But since the SPJ Code demands that we show compassion for those affected by news coverage, we chose not to use it unless we could document that his competency on the bench had been compromised. Our reporting found that upon his return, Federspiels competency was not in question, but if it became an issue the courts had safeguards in place to protect the integrity of the judicial process. In the end, we concluded Federspiel had caused no harm, either to himself or the judicial system, but a story about his visit to the bridge could inflict significant harm on Federspiel. Some might disagree, arguing it was the publics right to know because the story involved an elected official. Others might say theres an unfair stigma related to mental health issues, and taking time off for mental health treatment doesnt fundamentally differ from taking sick leave after a heart attack. We understand both viewpoints. Ultimately, however, we concluded that the obligation to minimize harm outweighed everything else. Over the weekend, the Tri-City Herald published a story about Federspiels actions on the I-82 bridge and his subsequent treatment, noting that he had presided over a Benton County trial that resulted in an $8 million jury verdict against a Hanford Site contractor and a company vice president in fall 2017 The newspaper reported Federspiels recent cases may be subject to scrutiny, along with his future rulings, though there is little likelihood cases would be thrown out. Federspiel did not speak to the Tri-City Herald reporter who published the story. Herald-Republic reporter Phil Ferolito called the judge Monday and asked if he wished to tell us about this summers events. Tuesday, he agreed. Ferolito filed a story explaining the steps taken before Federspiel could return to the bench, along with the process for monitoring a judges competency. Journalists should be able to explain why they publish stories or, in this case, why we didnt. Not right away. Greg Halling is managing editor of the Yakima Herald-Republic. Twitter: @ghalling. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. Bedouin children from Khan al-Ahmar, a village in the West Bank, appealed to German Chancellor Angela Merkel Tuesday, ahead of her scheduled visit to Israel, to help halt Israeli plans to raze their hamlet. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Khan al-Ahmar's 180 residents, backed by foreign activists who have gathered at the site, have been waiting for bulldozers to move in at any time after an Oct. 1 deadline from Israel for the villagers to demolish their own homes had expired. Khan al-Ahmar demolition (Photo: AFP) Israel claims the village was illegally built and has offered to resettle residents 12 kilometers (about 7 miles) away. "We will not voluntarily evacuate the place," said village resident Faisal Abu Dahuk. "The occupation forces that have an army and weapons can evacuate us by force, but there is no other place to go and we refuse to be moved anywhere else." Palestinian protest huts (Photo: Gil Yohanan) Critics say it's impossible for Palestinians to get building permits and that the demolition is meant to make room for an Israeli settlement that would effectively cut off east Jerusalem from the West Bank. The United Nations, human rights groups, and the European Union have urged Israel not to demolish Khan al-Ahmar , citing the serious impact on the community and prospects for peace. In September, Israel's High Court of Justice gave the go-ahead for eviction after a lengthy litigation. "When I walk to school every day, I'm afraid my school has already been demolished," said Muna Abu Dahouk, 12. Dahouk and several other children carried posters of Merkel on which appeals for her help were scrawled. German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Photo: EPA) The German leader is due in Israel on Wednesday for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a government-to-government meeting of Israeli and German ministers. Israeli security forces on Sunday morning handed out letters telling residents to voluntarily take down the buildings by October 1 or Israeli authorities would enforce the demolition orders. A spokeswoman for Israel's military liaison agency with the Palestinians said no date had been set for demolition should the houses remain after the deadline. (Photo: Amit Shabi) Meanwhile, pro-Palestinian activists speculate that the eviction would not be carried out until after Merkel leaves late on Thursday. Next to the encampment, a brown lake of wastewater formed on Tuesday, spill off from a nearby Jewish settlement. Palestinians called it a deliberate attempt to force the Bedouin to leave. A settlement spokeswoman said the spillage was unintentional and was caused by a fault in the waste management system. She said a crew was working to repair it. Thousands of residents of the Dahieh suburb of south Beirutan area controlled by Hezbollahreceived on Wednesday mobile phone notifications, which read: "Important message, near your home, a Hezbollah site has been established, proceed with caution, read the message. According to a report in the Arab newspaper Asharq al-Awsat, Israeli political sources refused to comment on the claim that Israeli intelligence is behind the messages. President Donald Trump made an undiplomatic remark about close ally Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, saying he warned Saudi Arabia's King Salman he would not last in power "for two weeks" without the backing of the US military. "We protect Saudi Arabia. Would you say they're rich. And I love the King, King Salman. But I said 'Kingwe're protecting youyou might not be there for two weeks without usyou have to pay for your military,'" Trump said to cheers at a rally in Southaven, Mississippi. Trump did not say when he made those remarks to the Saudi monarch. Southbound Ayalon highway was blocked off to traffic by the police on Wednesday following a demonstration by the disabled protesters on the Kaplan-Begin interchange in Tel Aviv. The Russian Defense Ministry released footage Wednesday showing the transferring of the S-300 anti-aircraft missile system to Syria. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu informed Russian President Vladimir Putin that the S-300 anti-aircraft missile system had arrived in Syria on Monday, prompting US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert to say it would cause "a serious escalation in concerns and issue going on in Syria." She added that the US cannot confirm the system in fact arrived in Syria. Footage showing S-300 system transfer to Syria (: ) X "The work was finished a day ago," Shoigu said to Putin. He also added that it will take three months to train Syrian personnel to operate the system. "The equipment transferred includes 49 unit of military gear, among them radars, operation systems and four launchers," Shoigu added. Russia announced last week that it would supply the anti-aircraft missiles after Syrian forces responding to an Israeli airstrike in the coastal city of Latakia two weeks ago mistakenly shot down a Russian military reconnaissance plane, killing all 15 people on board. S-300 anti-craft missile system transferred to Syria Russia views Israel as the responsible for the downing of the plane. Moscow claims Israel has misled it about its attack zone and did not inform the Russian air force enough time in advance about the strike. While speaking with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on a the phone, Putin said that Russias actions "are aimed at protecting its military." S-300 battery (Photo: EAP) In addition, US ambassador to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison said earlier that Russia must halt its covert development of a banned cruise missile system or the United States will seek to destroy it before it becomes operational. The United States believes Russia is developing a ground-launched system in breach of a Cold War treaty that could allow Russia to launch a nuclear strike on Europe at short notice, but Moscow has consistently denied any such violation. Hutchison said Washington remained committed to a diplomat solution but was prepared to consider a military strike if Russian development of the medium-range system continued. "At that point, we would be looking at the capability to take out a (Russian) missile that could hit any of our countries," she told a news conference. On Saturday, Shoigu said the S-300 system would be delivered to Syria, despite Israel's requests not to provide the embattled country with the system due to Israel's activity in the area. US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert (: U.S Department of State) X When asked whether the transfer of the S-300 system affects Israeli considerations, Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman told Ynet that, "When it comes to security, there will be no compromises. If something jeopardizes our safety, we'll act (against it)." "We value our relations with Russia. In my opinion, our coordination and cooperation with Moscow was good," Lieberman opined. "Weve invested a lot of efforts to avoid any direct friction with the Russian military. The Syrian army shot down the Russian plane, and bears sole responsibility for the incident. Model of military reconnaissance plane (Photo: AP) "We lament the lose of the 15 Russian soldiers and officers, and doing our best to normalize our relations with Russia," the defense minister concluded. Two Russian Air Force 124 Antonov military aircrafts landed on Thursday and Friday in the Russian base near Latakia, transporting equipment and logistics, which had allegedly been loaded onto the planes along the way. It was reported on Wednesday that indictments have recently been filed against two Birzeit University students for having links with members of a terrorist organization. Their interrogation revealed that they were recruited by Hamas military wing in the Gaza Strip to carry out attacks and assist in the transfer of terror funds. An indictment was also filed against a young man from the West Bank who, according to Shin Bet, was instructed to plan a terror attack and receive funds from a Gazan source. The police arrested a senior Ministry of Transport official and members of a family that owns a private transport company that operates public transport services on suspicion of bribery in exchange for favorable contracts, it was reported on Wednesday. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter It is suspected that for a long time, the senior official, who had a decisive influence in the sphere of public transport, favored the company in question over the rest. Two additional suspects were taken for questioning. During the arrest, the suspects homes and offices had been searched by the police. Lahav 433 (Photo: Avi Moalem) The police said the case was uncovered following an undercover investigation conducted by the Lahav 433 economic crimes unit. The undercover investigation raised the suspicion that the company negotiated a concession agreement with the Ministry of Transportation to operate bus lines that were deemed "more profitable, in return for various benefits of bribery, which did not include money, that the official received from the companys owners with whom he had a personal relationship. The suspects are being investigated on suspicion of bribery, fraud and breach of trust, as well as other corruption offenses. The Jerusalem District Attorney's Office accompanies the case, which will be brought before the court in Rishon Lezion on Wednesday afternoon. "As part of the Israel Police fight to combat corruption, which affects everyday life of ordinary citizens, and promote integrity in public sector, we will continue to investigate and expose improper procedures, said the official statement. In light of evidence that points to additional offenses that might have been committed, the National Unit for Combating Economic Crime in Lahav 433 opened an investigation following a period during which covert activity took place," it concluded. The United Nations' highest court has ordered the United States to lift sanctions on Iran that affect imports of humanitarian goods and products and services linked to the safety of civil aviation. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) handed a victory to Tehran, which had argued that sanctions imposed since May by the administration of US President Donald Trump violate the terms of a 1955 Treaty of Amity between the two countries. Iran welcomed the decision, calling the sanctions "illegal and cruel." "The decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the US sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel," the foreign ministry said in a statement published on Tasnim news agency and state media. The ruling is likely to have at most limited practical impact on the implementation of sanctions, which Washington is reimposing and tightening after pulling out of a 2015 nuclear deal that Iran signed with world powers. The ICJ is the United Nations highest court for resolving disputes between nations. Its rulings are binding, but it has no power to enforce them, and both the United States and Iran have effectively ignored its decisions in the past in cases they have brought against each other. The court found that assurances offered by Washington in August that it would do its best to ensure sanctions would not affect humanitarian conditions were "not adequate to address fully the humanitarian and safety concerns raised" by Iran. "The court considers that the United States must, in line with its obligations under the 1955 treaty, remove by means of its choosing any impediment arising from the measures announced on 8 May 2018," said Presiding Judge Abdulqawi Yusuf, reading a summary of a ruling by the 15-member panel of justices. President Trump (Photo: EPA) The sanctions may not hurt "exportation to the territory of Iran of goods required for humanitarian needs such as medicines, medical devices and foodstuffs and agricultural commodities as well as goods and services required for the safety of civil aviation," he said. Washington argued last month that Iran's request was an attempt to misuse the court and that the 1955 treaty specifically ruled out using courts to resolve disputes. The treaty was signed long before Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution which turned the two countries into arch foes. US State Department Legal Adviser Jennifer Newstead had said Iran's real quarrel was Iran's frustration over US plans to pull out of the 2015 nuclear pact, under which Iran agreed to curbs on its nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions. The unilateral US move has been opposed by the other countries that are party to the agreement, including Washington's close European allies Britain, France and Germany as well as Russia and China. Despite international criticism, Washington is pushing ahead with the measures. A new series of sanctions is due to go into effect Nov. 4 aimed at sharply curtailing Iranian oil exports. Nadia Cohen, the widow of Israeli spy Eli Cohen who was caught and hanged in Syria in 1965, urged the embattled country's president Bashar Assad on Wednesday to release her husband's remains for burial in Israel. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Speaking at the International Multidisciplinary Conference on the Treatment of War Injuries at the Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya, Cohen addressed Assad, saying, "I implore you, even beg of you, to release Eli's remains. I'm 83 years old, look at us and forgive." Nadia Cohen (Photo: Ido Erez) "I thank those who came up with the idea that I speak to Assad's heart. I sent him letters 18 years ago as well as photos of our children, and grandchildren to soften his heart and release Eli's body," the Israel spy's widow recalled. "I rejoiced when he wrote back: 'in due time.' Those words consoled me," she explained. "Meanwhile, time has passed and Assad has been going through a tough patcha revolution has occurred in his country," Cohen stated. "President Assad, your people has paid a high price, the people you care about. I turn to you with love and wish for peace," Eli Cohen's widow said. "Eli was an angel who (came into this world) to fulfill a certain role, to protect his country and his people. "He adored Israel and the piece of land we had received. He was a Zionist who contributed and helped (the State of Israel) and left behind three children that don't even know him," she lamented. Eli Cohen, left, during his trial in Damascus (Photo: AFP) The conference was organized after more than 6,000 victims of Syria's seven-year civil war had received medical attention in Israel, with half of them being treated at the Galilee Medical Center. A multidisciplinary face reconstruction surgery of a Syrian refugee who endured a severe head injury was the highlight treatment and first of its kind given in Israel. When Cohen concluded her speech, the Director of hospital Dr. Masad Barhoum, called on the audience to applaud her. Barhoum said he sympathizes with Cohen's plea and turned to Assad in Arabic, describing the treatment Israel gave the Syrian refugees as the biggest humanitarian operation in its history. The director mentioned that treating the Syrians challenged the medical staff's abilities and raised many ethical questions. The IDF Medical Corps will present during the conference the field hospital that was acknowledged by the World Health Organization as the most advanced in the world. Charges were filed against three Palestinian, two of them students at Birzeit University, for being activists of Hamas's military wing in the Gaza Strip. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Issa Shalalda, 21, and Omar Mas'ud, 20, are suspected of being active in a Hamas student cell at Birzeit University near Ramallah. Their interrogation revealed that they were recruited by the terror organization via Facebook to carry out attacks and assist in the transfer of terror funds. File photo (Photo: AFP) In addition, Shalalda and Mas'ud are suspected of being trained by Hamas. Hazam Hamil, 24, from the West Bank was indicted for maintaining ties with a Gazan official via Facebook. A Shin Bet questioning indicates Hamil was instructed by Hamas to promote terror attacks for which he was supposed to receive funds and weapons. According to the indictment, Hamil had direct contact with the enemy. During 2015, officials of Hamas's military wing established a secret terror infrastructure consisted of the terror organization's activists in Gaza as well as the West Bank. The infrastructure's purpose was to recruit terror activists from the West Bank and Israel in order to carry out terror attacks against Israeli citizens, According to the shin Bet. Gaza border riots (Photo: AFP) A special effort was invested in recruiting Palestinian engineering students who served as explosive device manufacturers. Since the establishment of the infrastructure, the Shin Bet and IDF have detained dozens of Hamas activists who operated via social media to execute terror attacks in Israel. The recent arrests were carried out after the terror infrastructure in the strip attempted to increase the pace of terror attacks in the West Bank. IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot warned the Security-Cabinet two weeks ago that there is a more than moderate chance that a violent conflagration could erupt in the West Bank, adding that the US decision to choke the Palestinian Authority (PA) of financial funds is counter productive for Israel and could inflame matters in the area. IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot (Photo: Amit Sha'al) Moreover, The Ministry of Defense's National Counterterrorism Bureau announced that it had uncovered a terrorist financing infrastructure for Hamas in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. The scheme was exposed in a joint operation of the IDF, the Tax Authority and the Shin Bet. According to suspicions, Hamas used textile merchants who import large containers into the Gaza Strip. Senior Hamas figure Hamed Khudari, through his financial exchange business, declared by Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman as a terrorist organization, contacted Gaza businessmen and persuaded them to work with him in exchange for financial benefits. President Bashar Assad has told a little-known Kuwaiti newspaper that Syria has reached a "major understanding" with other Arab states after years of hostility over the country's civil war. The interview in the Al-Shahed newspaper, published Wednesday, was Assad's first with a Gulf newspaper since the war began in 2011. He does not name the Arab countries, but says Arab and Western delegations have begun visiting Syria to prepare for the reopening of diplomatic and other missions. Iran said Wednesday that the missile attack it launched in Syria on Monday had killed 40 "top leaders" of Islamic State, and that intelligence for the operation had been provided by its elite Quds Force. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Iran fired six missiles at targets in the Abu Kamal and Hajin regions in eastern Syria, in retaliation for an attack on a military parade in Iran on Sept. 22 that killed 29 people, nearly half of them members of its Revolutionary Guards. The Quds Force is in charge of the Revolutionary Guards' overseas operations. One missile that was shown on state television bore the slogans "Death to America, Death to Israel, Death to Al Saud," referring to Saudi Arabia's ruling family. The missile also bore in Arabic the phrase "kill the friends of Satan," referring to a verse in the Quran on fighting infidels. Mohsen Rezaie, a former commander of the Guards, suggested in a Twitter message on Monday that more attacks were coming. "The main punishment is on the way," he wrote. "Based on the information we have received, around 40 top leaders of Daesh were killed in this attack," General Amirali Hajizadeh, head of the Guards' aerospace division, was quoted on Tuesday by Iran's state media as saying. "Daesh" is a derogatory Arabic acronym for Islamic State. "One of the highlights of this operation was that the Quds force had provided the intelligence needed for the attack," he added. The Islamic State and the Ahwaz National Resistance, a separatist ethnic Arab movement in Iran, have both claimed responsibility for the Sept. 22 attack, but neither has presented conclusive evidence. Iranian military support has been vital to helping Syrian President Bashar Assad through his country's civil war. Iran has dismissed US demands that it leave Syria. President Vladimir Putin has called Sergei Skripal, the ex-spy who was poisoned with a military grade nerve agent in Britain, a traitor and a "scumbag." It was the first time Putin directly condemned Skripal, who spent weeks hospitalized with his daughter after both were poisoned in the city of Salisbury in March. Britain put the blame squarely on Russia, but Moscow has denied any role in it. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday called Sergei Skripal, the ex-spy who was poisoned with a military grade nerve agent in Britain, a traitor and a "scumbag." It was the first time Putin directly condemned Skripal, who spent weeks hospitalized with his daughter after both were poisoned in the city of Salisbury in March. Britain put the blame squarely on the Russian government, but Moscow has denied any role in the attack. Asked about international sanctions on Russia triggered by the poisoning, Putin called the ex-spy a "traitor" who betrayed his country and "just a scumbag." President Bashar Assad told a little-known Kuwaiti newspaper that Syria has reached a "major understanding" with Arab states after years of hostility over the country's civil war. The interview in the Al-Shahed newspaper, published Wednesday, was Assad's first with a Gulf newspaper since the war began in 2011. Assad doesn't name the Arab countries but says Arab and Western delegations have begun visiting Syria to prepare for the reopening of diplomatic and other missions. Soon the civil war will be over, Assad told the paper's publisher, allowing Syria to resume its pivotal role in the region. German Chancellor Angela Merkel arrived in Israel on Wednesday for the latest in a series of joint government consultations highlighting the countries' close bond seven decades after the Holocaust, even as recent developments have tested the tight ties. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Her two-day visit is expected to focus on bilateral economic issues, with an emphasis on innovation, technology and development projects. But looming in the background will be sharp differences in Israeli and German policies toward Iran and the Palestinians. Merkel, who is accompanied by much of her Cabinet, a large business delegation and her new czar for combatting anti-Semitism, was welcomed at Ben-Gurion Airport by Regional Cooperation Minister Tzachi Hanegbi, and then headed to the Prime Minister's Residence to dine with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Merkel with Prime Minister Netanyahu and his wife Sara (Photo: Connect) On Thursday, Merkel will visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial Center in Jerusalem at 7:35am. Then, at 9:30am, the German chancellor is set to visit the Israel Museum, where she will receive an honorary doctorate by the University of Haifa and will later head a round table at the museum's innovation exhibition with the prime minister. Later on Thursday, the chancellor is set to meet with President Reuven Rivlin. At 2pm, Merkel will hold an official meeting with Netanyahu, which will be followed by a joint press conference. At 7pm, the German leader is scheduled to return back to her country. Germany is Israel's largest trading partner in Europe and for the past few decades has been perhaps its strongest ally. Israel was established three years after the end of World War II, and the German government has paid billions in reparations to Holocaust survivors and positioned itself as a leader in combatting anti-Semitism. But differences have been exacerbated following the election of US President Donald Trump. Netanyahu has been one of Trump's staunchest international supporters, lauding him for pulling out of the Iranian nuclear deal that Merkel and other world leaders helped negotiate in 2015. Netanyahu says the deal, which curbed Iran's nuclear program, does not include enough safeguards to prevent the Islamic Republic from developing a nuclear weapons capability. Trump also has largely refrained from criticizing Israeli settlement activity in the West Banka frequent European complaintrecognized Jerusalem as its capital and moved the US embassy there. He also has cut funding to the Palestinians and fully pinned the blame for stalled Mideast peace talks on them. Netanyahu's rapport with Merkel has been cordial and even cool at times. Merkel has continued to champion the traditional approach to peacemaking, calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state and for Israel to refrain from unilateral steps to undermine its prospect. In a conversation with Ynet, Dr. Gil Yaron, a reporter for German newspaper Die Welt, described the current relationship between the two countries as "partly cloudy." "If you look at the trade relations between the countries, you can see they reached a historic peak. In 2017, the trade deals between Israel and Germany amounted to about $10 billion, the highest it ever was," he said. The director of the German Chamber of Commerce in Israel told Dr. Yaron there were so many Germans wishing to do business in Israel, he has to reject some of them after they discovered Israel "was an excellent place to do business." "If you look at youth exchange numbers, you see that there are 10,000 teenagers from both countries registered to an exchange program. The only thing preventing Israel from raising those figures is the government. Israel does not invest sufficient funds in youth exchange programs. It cut off 70 percent of the budget, which was meager to begin with," he added. The Khan al-Ahmar problem Outlining the points of dispute between the two countries, Dr. Yaron explained that "last year, a meeting between the governments was canceled due to Merkel's dissatisfaction with Israeli policies, its Regulation Law , and its policy regarding the territorieswhich Germany disapproves of, like most countries, apart from the United States and Micronesia." "Germany is Israel's greatest ally, no less than the US, certainly when it comes to arms deals such as submarines, which arrive at Israeli shores partlyif not entirelyfunded by the Germans," Dr. Yaron stressed. "However, when you see Europe changing, with its influx of immigrants, refugees, and rising anti-Semitism, you wonder how Germany can build its relationship with other countries when its leader, Merkel, is dealing with a decline in popularity. The system is much more complex than it once was," he added. Bedouin children from Khan al-Ahmar appeal to the German chancellor (Photo: AP) There also might be some tension between Merkel and Netanyahu regarding the planned evacuation of Khan al-Ahmar , a Bedouin village in the West Bank. Germany has been among the European countries calling on Israel to refrain from carrying out its plans to demolish the West Bank hamlet that was illegally built. Israel has offered to resettle the 180 Bedouin Palestinian residents of Khan al-Ahmar a few kilometers away. But Palestinians and their European backers say the demolition is aimed at displacing Palestinians in favor of settlement expansion and would deal a devastating blow to hopes for Palestinian statehood. The Supreme Court recently rejected a final appeal against the plans and residents are bracing for the move any day. Israeli forces are unlikely to carry it out though during Merkel's brief stay for fear of sparking a crisis. Regardless, Israeli officials say they don't expect that issueor Merkel's long held preference to maintain the Iran dealto overshadow the visit, which is expected to bring about new economic agreements, the creation of a formal youth exchange and a renewed commitment to combating anti-Semitism, after Israel raised alarm over several recent cases in Germany. Shimon Stein, a former Israeli ambassador to Germany, said that despite the Israeli government's growing alliances with several eastern European countries in the battle against radical Islam, Germany remains its strongest and most significant European backer. "These routine consultations have created a symbolism for the relationship that should not be overlooked," he said. "Germany doesn't always see eye to eye with Israel ... but it is the leading supporter of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state." The two countries established diplomatic ties in 1965, after which Germany began paying reparations for the Nazi-led Holocaust in which 6 million Jews were murdered. The first joint consultation was in March 2008, when Merkel and her Cabinet arrived to mark the 60th anniversary of Israel's independence. During that three-day visit, Merkel addressed the Knesset, in German, and expressed shame over the Holocaust. The 20-minute speech earned Merkel a standing ovation. US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo said Wednesday that the Russian delivery of Russian air defense system to Syria is a serious escalation. Pompeo then blamed Iran on Wednesday for threats to American missions in Iraq and said the United States was terminating a treaty of amity with Tehran. "Iran is the origin of the current threat to Americans in Iraq," Pompeo told reporters at the State Department. "Our intelligence in this regard is solid. We can see the hand of the ayatollah and his henchmen supporting these attacks on the United States." The Hamas delegation, headed by deputy leader Saleh al-Arouri, eneded its visit to Cairo Wednesday, after four days of discussions with senior Egyptian intelligence officials. The talks dealt with a possible reconciliation with Fatah and a cease-fire deal between the Palestinians and Israel. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Wednesday the Russian delivery of the S-300 air defense system to Syria was "a serious escalation." Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Moscow said on Tuesday that it had delivered the S-300, a decision it took after accusing Israel of indirect responsibility for the downing of a Russian spy plane by Syrian forces as they fired on attacking Israeli jets last month. Damascus and its big-power backer describe the advanced addition to Syria's arsenal as a major deterrent. Israel and Washington have both voiced misgivings about the S-300 handover. The S-300 batteries; US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (Photo: EPA, EAP) But Israel's Regional Cooperation Minister Tzachi Hanegbi played down the Russian move, telling Army Radio said Syria having the S-300 system would not limit Israel's freedom of operations on its northern border. "The operational abilities of the air force are such that those (S-300) batteries really do not constrain the air force's abilities to act," he said. Referring to F-35 Joint Strike Fighters that Israel began receiving from the United States over a year ago, Hanegbi said: "You know that we have stealth fighters, the best planes in the world. These batteries are not even able to detect them." Reuters reported in 2015 that Israel had trained against a Russian-supplied S-300 system in Greece. Minister Tzachi Hanegbi (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky) Israel's air raids on Syria have been carried out as part of the effort to foil deployments and arms transfers by Iran or Lebanon's Hezbollah guerrillas, allies of Damascus. Hanegbi said that Russia had previously stationed its own S-300 in Syria, so the system's capabilities had long been factored into Israeli planning. Syria's military would require "a few months" to get its S-300 operational, he said. "We have clarified to the Syrians more than once that we will not step back from our commitment to prevent Iran's entrenchment in Syria," Hanegbi said, adding a veiled threat to take action against the S-300 on the ground: "We were already forced, a few months ago, to destroy Syrian missile batteries, and I hope they won't challenge us in the future." Israel said on Sept. 4 it had carried out more than 200 air strikes in Syria in the previous two yearsan average rate of twice a weekwith Russia largely turning a blind eye. There have been no reports of such missions since the Russian plane's downing on Sept. 17, however. Any such hiatus was a "tactical situation over a week or two" rather than a strategic reassessment by Israel, Hanegbi said. Asked if Iran and its allies had used the period to step up their activities in Syria, he said he had seen "no basis for that" in Israeli intelligence assessments. At least a thousand Palestinians gathered at several locations along the border fence in Gaza on Wednesday. The Palestinians threw stones and burnt tires at IDF soldiers, who responded with crowd-dispersal means. Syrian President Bashar Assad told Kuwaiti newspaper Wednesday that Syria has reached a "major understanding" with Arab states after years of hostility over the country's civil war. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter The interview in the little-known Al-Shahed newspaper was Assad's first with a Gulf newspaper since the war began in 2011. Assad doesn't name the Arab countries but says Arab and Western delegations have begun visiting Syria to prepare for the reopening of diplomatic and other missions. Soon the civil war will be over, Assad told the paper's publisher, allowing Syria to resume its pivotal role in the region. President of Syria, Bashar Assad (Photo: Reuters) Syria's membership in the 22-member Arab League was suspended in the early days of the war and Arab countries later imposed economic sanctions after they failed to mediate an end to the war. Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other members of the Gulf Cooperation Council have openly supported opposition groups fighting to overthrow Assad since. Kuwait hosted a number of donors' conferences for aid to Syrians, but it also condemned violence blamed on the Syrian government. On the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the Syrian foreign minister and his Bahraini counterpart held a warm meeting which turned heads because it featured hugs between the two ministers. The encounter raised questions about whether the Gulf countries, most of them sworn enemies of Assad's ally Iran, are reconsidering their relations with Damascus as the war winds down. Putin and Assad's warm embrace Assad, embattled for years, is emerging largely victorious after strong support from Russia and Iran. He now controls over 60 percent of Syria with strong Russian and pro-Iranian military support. Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the Bahraini foreign minister, later told Saudi-run Al-Arabiya TV that it was not the first meeting with "my brother" the Syrian minister. But he said it was an unplanned meeting, while other planned ones weren't caught on camera. Al Khalifa said the meeting came at a time of serious Arab efforts to "reclaim" a role in resolving the Syrian crisis. "This meeting comes at this period that is witnessing positive transformations toward having an effective Arab role in the Syrian issue," Al Khalifa said in the Sunday interview with Al-Arabiya. "Syria is an Arab country. Its people are Arabs and what happens there concerns us before any other nation. It is not correct that regional and international countries are looking into the Syrian issue and not us." Idlib province in Syria during the war (Photo: MCT) Al Khalifa seemed to recognize that the Syrian government is here to stay. "The Syrian government is the Syrian government. We work with states even if we disagree with themand not with those who bring down those states," he said. Assad praises Kuwait's position regarding Syria in the interview with Al-Shahed, calling its leader "a problem solver." Al-Shahed's editor in chief is one of the many members of the extended Kuwaiti royal family. The paper had been temporarily shut down twice in 2010, and 2014 for insulting the judiciary and the public prosecutor and for publishing false news. Its editor in chief was sentenced to three months in 2010. A Palestinian teenager was killed on Wednesday when a tear gas canister fired by Israeli troops during a border protest hit him in the head, Gaza health officials said. A 15-year-old Palestinian teen was shot dead Wednesday evening during clashes between Palestinian rioters and IDF forces near the Erez border crossing in the northern Gaza Strip. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Over a 1,000 Palestinians protested in several different spots along the border fence, throwing stones at IDF forces and setting fire to tires. The Israeli troops responded with crowd dispersal measures, with the IDF saying the soldiers "are acting in accordance with the rules of engagement." File photo (Photo: AFP) The IDF has yet to comment on the incident in which the Palestinian teen was killed. Meanwhile, a Hamas delegation headed by the terror group's deputy leader Saleh al-Arouri returned Wednesday after four days of discussions in Cairo with top Egyptian intelligence officials. The discussions revolved around both the reconciliation with Fataha rival Palestinian faction led by Mahmoud Abbasand an arrangement in Gaza, which would include a ceasefire agreement with Israel. It is unclear what the outcome of these discussions was. In recent weeks, there has been a spike in Palestinian rioting in Gaza, as well as in the launch of incendiary balloons and kites. On Monday, some 4,000 Palestinians rioted in northern Gaza, throwing stones and Molotov cocktails and launching fireworks at Israeli forces, who responded with crowd dispersal measures. Over the last weekend, some 20,000 Palestinians rioted in several spots along the Gaza border. Seven Palestinians were reported killed from IDF fire during those clashes, including three teenagers aged 12, 14 and 18. The IDF said it had attacked a Hamas position. The Israel Police arrested two suspects, a father and his son, early Wednesday on suspicion they bribed employees in the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in return for bid rigging. Investigators at the Lahav 433 anti-fraud unit suspect the two promised IAI employees a cut of the profits from any bid they help them rig, in addition to other illegal benefits. The IAI said that "the investigation was launched at the initiative of the IAI, which provided its findings on the matter to the relevant bodies. At present, the company has no knowledge of suspicions against any of its employees." Police were called to the Pennsylvania compound of Fethullah Gulen, the US-based Muslim cleric accused by Turkey of instigating a failed 2016 coup, on Wednesday after a guard fired a shot at a suspected armed intruder, a Gulen spokesman said. The security guard fired a warning shot as the person tried to enter the compound's gates, and the intruder fled, the spokesman said. There are no known injuries or arrests, Alp Aslandogan, Gulen's media adviser, told Reuters. "Just one shot was fired," Aslandogan said. "The person disappeared. The incident is over as far as we're concerned." Gulen was inside his residence on the compound at the time."His response was that the authorities should be informed and everybody should cooperate fully with the investigation to find out what happened," Aslandogan said. BRUSSELS - The US envoy to NATO on Tuesday said that Russia must halt development of new missiles that could carry nuclear warheads and warned that the United States would be looking at its capability to take out the system if it becomes operational. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter NATO fears the 9M729 system contravenes the 1987 Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treaty, or INF. The Cold War-era pact bans an entire class of weaponsall land-based cruise missiles with a range between 500-5,500 kilometers (310-3,410 miles)and the alliance says that the Russian system fits into that category. It is time now for Russia to come to the table and stop the violations, US Ambassador Kay Bailey Hutchison told reporters in Brussels, on the eve of a meeting between US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and his NATO counterparts. US President Trump (Photo: Reuters) Hutchinson later clarified her position in a tweet in which she said she was not talking about preemptively striking Russia. Rather, she said in the tweet that her point was: Russia needs to return to INF Treaty compliance or we will need to match its capabilities to protect US & NATO interests. Washington has shared intelligence evidence with its 28 NATO allies that Russia is developing the ground-fired cruise missile and that the system could give Moscow the ability to launch a nuclear strike in Europe with little or no notice. Russia has claimed that US missile defenses violate the pact. In the past, the Obama administration worked to convince Moscow to respect the INF treaty but seemed to make no progress. Mattis said Tuesday that he intends to bring the issue up during the NATO meeting. After four years of diplomatic effort, he said, the US is living by the treaty and Russia is not. He said there is a lot of concern about that at the US State Department and on Capitol Hill. Russian President Putin (Photo: Reuters) Im going to lay out the situation, Mattis said during a news conference in Paris. I want their advice as I return to Washington, DC. Hutchison said the US doesnt want to violate the treaty but that Russia could force its hand. There will come a point in the future in which America will determine that it has to move forward with a development phase that is not allowed by the treaty right now, she said. Washington wants its NATO allies to ramp up diplomatic pressure on Moscow, and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said that all allies are concerned by Russias continued work on the system. Russia has not provided any credible answers on this new missile, said Stoltenberg, adding that the INF is a crucial element of trans-Atlantic security which is now in danger because of Russias actions. Vladimir Putin said on the eve of Yom Kippur that Russia will take "steps that everyone will notice" in response to the Russian intelligence plane that was shot down in Syria. Last week, his defense minister Sergey Shoygu made good on that threat when he announced three steps to bolster the Syrian army's defenses and limit Israel's aerial freedom of operations in Syria and likely in Lebanon as well. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter These are the three steps, arranged according to the level of severity. 1. Provide the Syrian aerial defense apparatus with Russian-made anti-aircraft S-300 missile batteries 2. Provide the Syrian aerial defense apparatus with modern electronic control and monitoring systems. This will allow the Syrians to better differentiate between enemy and friendly planes and automatically "lock" onto hostile targets without requiring a decision from the battery commander, which could lead to mistakes. This system will also apparently allow the Russian aerial defense commanders in Syria to control both the S-300 and the Syrian army's other missile systems. 3. Use electronic and cyber warfare to disrupt GPS navigating systems and radars installed on fighter jets that Russia wants to prevent from nearing Syrian or Lebanese airspace or from attacking targets in Syria. Russian Defense Minister Shoygu may not have said this measure was meant to prevent Israeli jets from reaching areas from which they could fire into Syria or to disrupt missiles or bombs the IAF launches, but it's clear the Israeli Air Force's fighter jets and precision-guided arms were what the Russians had in mind. US President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin (left to right) (Photo: MCT, AFP, Reuters) In any case, even if the Russians' goal was to prevent and disrupt the operations of Israel's fighter jets and missiles in Syrian and Mediterranean airspace, it's clear these measures could also disrupt the operations of American, French and British fighter jets that are combating ISIS forces in this area. In additionand this is truly dangerousthese measures would disrupt commercial planes flying routes between Cyprus and the shores of Syria and Lebanon. Commercial flights to and from Israelmostly to Europe and Turkeymight also be affected by these measures. Taking advantage of others' troubles On the surface, it appears these are the most severe steps Russia has taken against Israel since the 1973 Yom Kippur War. It is safe to assume the severity of these measures is due to the outrage of the commanders of Russian air and aerial defense forces stationed in Syria. The Israeli Air Force attack in Latakia and the shooting down of a Russian intelligence plane with a Russian missile by the Syrian air defense forceswho are trained and supervised by Russian forcespresents these commanders to the Russian public and the Kremlin as completely inept and as those who don't understand what's going on around them. This is what led to the unrestrained lashing from the Russian Defense Ministry spokesman and the fabricated story about the Israeli jets using the Russian plane as bait, leading to it being shot down. The newly supplied S-300 missile system Another reason for the severe steps taken by the Russians is the desire to stop IAF strikes in Syria, or at the very least considerably reduce the number of attacksover 200 of which were carried out over the past year, according to the IDF. This number led both Syrian President Assad and the Iranians to complain that the Russians are not providing them with sufficient defense. The Russians, in turn, are worried these complaints would lead Assadunder Iranian influenceto thank Moscow for its help and politely ask the Russians to leave Syria, which would undermine Putin's economic and geo-political interests. Providing the Syrians with S-300 batteries and other aerial defense measures allows the Russians to show Assad that he can't survive without their help, as well as that they're committed to him (and not just Assad: the Iranians are also in the debt of the Russians, who back them not just in words but now in actions as well). The second reason is diplomatic: the Russians want Assad to be entirely dependent on them, and the shooting down of the Russian plane gives them a diplomatic achievement, which turns the Syrian presidentand to a certain extent the Iraniansinto their "vassals." Another reason for the series of unusual measures is that the Russians are also hoping for financial gain. They are not giving the Syrians the S-300 system for free. This is an expensive system, and it is likely the Iranians are the ones who would have to foot the hundreds of millions of dollars bill. As usual, the Russians know how to gain from any trouble around them. What's concerning is that the Americans have not really interfered so far. Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo may have dubbed this as a "significant escalation" and expressed hope Russia would reconsider the move, but so far Washington has left Jerusalem to deal with the shooting down of the plane on its own. President Trump might intervene and help ease the burden, but meanwhile it's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman who are facing Putin, the Russian Defense Ministry and the Russian military, who really dislike us these days. The IDF knows the S-300 well Nevertheless, there is no reason for panic or over-pessimism. It's important to thoroughly examine the details in order to reach a sobered assessment of the real effect the Russian steps would have on the IDF's aerial freedom of operations and on Israel's ability to thwart Iran's military entrenchment in Syria. The S-300 system is indeed more effective and advanced than any other interception system the Syrians had prior. It can intercept not only planes but also ballistic missiles at a range of up to 250 kilometers and at very high altitudes. Russian defense minister Sergey Shoygu (: RT) X Syria sought to buy such a system from Russia back in 2009. The Iranians were willing to pay for it, but pressure on Putin from Netanyahu and former US President Barack Obama stopped the deal in 2013. Syrian aerial defense officers had already begun training with the S-300 in Russia, and Assad's army had already started receiving parts of the systemincluding vehicles to carry launchers, command and control trailers and other logistical vehiclesbut until now Putin had avoided providing Assad with the full system. In April, Putin resisted pressures from his generals, who wanted him to provide the system to Syria as a retaliatory move for the Israeli strike on Iranian weapons in the Syrian T4 air base, where Russian military personnel were stationed at the time. But now, it's harder to thwart the plans of the Russian generals and the Russian military industry to sell the S-300 to the Syrians. It's important to note that the S-300 system has several models, and the older models have already been sold to over 20 countries, including Greece and Cypruswhich are friendly to Israel and have close military cooperation with it. The S-300 system the Syrians asked for is called SA10 by NATO. It is a model both Greece and Cyprus already have, and so it is safe to assume Israel's Air Force and military industries have already gotten a chance to study it. The Russian plane delivering S-300 missile system Iran, meanwhile, has a more advanced model of the S-300 system. Putin had initially heeded Israeli and American pressure not to sell the S-300 system to Tehran, with the understanding it would be used to defend Iran's nuclear weapons production and development sites if the West decides to take military action against the Islamic Republic. But two years ago, following the agreement between Tehran and world powers to suspend its nuclear activity, Russia delivered the S-300 batteries to Iran. This, it's safe to say, led Israeland mostly the IDF and Israeli defense industriesto accelerate the development of an answer in the form of methods and measures that would neutralize the threat of the S-300 system to Israeli and Western aerial freedom of operation. By the way, the newest model of the S-300 (officially known as S-400)which has not yet been delivered to other countriesis already in Syria and operated by a Russian force, defending the Khmeimim Air Base, 25 kilometers south of Latakia, where Russian troops are stationed. That battery was stationed there several years ago, after the Turkish air force shot down a Russian plane. The battery hasn't been used since, but it's possible that if another crisis develops in the future, the Russians might be tempted to try to use that advanced system against the Israel Air Force. This is not a threat that can be handled, but it needs to be taken into consideration. The bottom line is this: Russia providing the S-300 system to Syria is indeed not good news for Israel, but it is not a threat that would prevent the IAF from carrying out the missions it was tasked with. It will only require more effort, more planning and more caution in the use of force in Syrian and Lebanese airspace. But, as already noted, in addition to the delivery of the S-300 batteries, Russian Defense Minister Shoygu announced he was providing the Syrian aerial defense apparatus with electronic control and monitoring systems. This measure will improve the response speed of the Syrian missile batteries, but not considerably. S-300 Russian defense system () X The importance of these systems is in changing the situation in which Syrian missile operators cannot tell the difference between Russian or Iranian planes and Israeli planes. This was one of the main issues that led to the shooting down of the Russian intelligence plane: the Syrians didn't have the identification friend or foe modes (IFF) of the Russian plane, and they shot it down without even trying to use other measures that would've allowed them to identify it as a friendly or civilian plane. The Russians didn't give the IFF to the Syrians and paid for it dearly, and this is one of the reasons they're taking out their anger on Israel. The third step Moscow is taking should not be taken lightly: the use of electronic and cyber warfare to disrupt Israel's fighter jets, missiles, drones, rockets and other armaments could somewhat limit the freedom of operation of the IDF's aerial systems. But the high-tech and cyber capabilities of Israel and the IDF will likely manage to deal with this threat as well after not a long period of examination and adjustment. S-300 missile (Photo: AFP) And still, Russia is a world power and has kinetic military capabilities and cyber capabilities that Israel shouldn't and has no need to deal with. Israel needs to avoid becoming Russia's enemy as much as possible, and prevent a situation in which the anti-Israeli figures in the Russian security establishment might force Putin to have a direct and public confrontation with Israel in Syrian territory. Such a confrontation would not be good for Russia, but Israel would be the one suffering severe damages, while the Iranians, Hezbollah and the Syrian regime would be celebrating. Therefore, in tandem with the efforts to deal with the new military situation in Syria, Israel must make diplomatic efforts to bring this crisis to an end and resume the coordination and cooperation with the Kremlin. The diplomatic effort must now be at the forefront, and with it Israel will perhaps be able to reduce the steps Russia is taking. There are several necessary diplomatic moves to be made, including Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Netanyahu doing everything he can to recruit the help of President Trump and the Pentagon. The ongoing paralysis in the American administration vis-a-vis the situation in Syria is a leftover from the Obama administration, and it is harmful to Israel because it leaves us alone facing Iran (a regional superpower) and Russia (a world superpower). It's time for the US to get off the fence. It has enough military assets in Syria and the Mediterranean and enough leverage with which to pressure the Kremlin to rein in the Russian generals. US National Security Adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday the United States would withdraw from the optional protocol that gives the ICJ jurisdiction to hear disputes under the 1961 Vienna Convention of Diplomatic Relations. The Vienna Convention is an international treaty setting out diplomatic relations between states. It is often cited as a means to provide diplomatic immunity. Bolton told a White House briefing that the withdrawal from the so-called optional protocol was related to a case brought by the State of Palestine in September challenging the recent US embassy move from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. This really has less to do with Iran and the Palestinians than with the continued consistent policy of the United States to reject the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice, which we think is politicized and ineffective, Bolton said. The ICJ is the United Nations venue for resolving disputes between nations. Palestine was recognized by the UN General Assembly in 2012 as a non-member observer state, though its statehood is not recognized by either Israel or the United States. Hidden away on a tiny side street on the southern edge of downtown Tel Aviv is a restaurant whose modern, spacious decor belies an understated elegance, as well as faultless attention to detail: the lighting is just right bright enough to read the menu easily, but dim enough to convey a sense of intimacywhile the soundtracktasteful golden oldiesplays at exactly the right volume. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter The description printed on the restaurants paper napkinsprovided in addition to starched cloth napkinsreads elite Mediterranean fish restaurant, which admirably sums up the restaurants cuisine. Helming the kitchen is new chef Ilan Mizrahi, who graciously offered to prepare us a tasting menu of Decas classic dishes, as well as few ones being introduced this month. A meal at Deca starts with complimentary house bread and butter, or one may order focaccia, which comes with an array of dips, of which the rich, creamy ikra is the best. Drumfish (Photo: Buzzy Gordon) Even before commencing on the food, however, it is worth perusing the list of seven specialty cocktail, because there are some real winners there. For example, the Appletinia mixture of Martini Bianco, Calvados and apple juice, garnished with slices of fresh apple and, surprisingly, radishis fruity and refreshing, while the Jungle Viberum, Martini bitter, lemon juice, orange juice and, unusually, hyssop (zaatar)really packs a punch. The main menu comprises three sections: starters, intermediate courses and main courses. First, however, we were served an interesting amuse bouche called "Pani Puri"raw salmon with ginger and mint, encased in crispy round shells inspired by Indian cuisine. Each bite resulted in a tiny explosion of flavor; unfortunately, it was all gone in just a few bites. Pani Puri (Photo: Buzzy Gordon) As a kosher restaurant that serves no meat or poultry, Decas starters and main courses, not surprisingly, revolve around fish and pasta, often in combination. Nevertheless, several of the pasta dishes, as well as salads, are ideal for vegetarians. Our first starter was, according to the manager, one of the restaurants most popular dishes: gnocchi with almonds and pine nuts in cream sauce. The tender potato pastain a delectable, cheesy sauce with shallot, sage and honeywas certainly as good as any to be found in an Italian restaurant. Second was drumfish sashimi on freekeh salad dressed with burnt labaneh. The fresh raw fish with vegetable-studded smoked wheat and distinctive dressing added up to a wonderful interplay of flavors, while a hint of chili left a pleasant tingle of heat in the mouth. Sashimi (Photo: Buzzy Gordon) The intermediate course was sea fish massabhaherbed white bean cream topped with morsels of mild ceviche, pickled zucchini, a quail egg and scatterings of cooked and raw chickpeas, served with a grilled bruschetta. From the expert seasoning to the crunch of raw kernels, this variation on a hummus theme was a truly winning combination. Our main courses were both fillets of local fish, prepared in creative ways. First came a new dish that will make its way onto the lunch menu in October: grilled mullet (burri) served on black beans and carrot creaman entree that was as pleasing to the eye as it was to the palate. (Photo: Buzzy Gordon) The drumfish, meanwhile, was served with spinach and grilled vegetables in an exotic and piquant pickled lemon yogurt sauce. Fortunately, the thick steaks of white fish were able to stand up to the spicy sauce, resulting in an excellent dish. Deca boasts an impressive international wine list, including its own red and white private label house wines, as well as featured wines of the month. These are the only wines available by the glass, but the restaurant is very generous when it comes offering tastes before you order. Deca's dips (Photo: Buzzy Gordon) The six desserts, prepared by a dedicated pastry chef, present the diner with some tempting choices. Chef Mizrahi recommended the chocolate mousse, which is actually a chocolate extravaganza with five wonderful components, including delicious ganache, a chewy brownie, feathery mousse, salted cocoa crumble and a scrumptious chocolate caramel macaroon. Deca's chocolate mousse (Photo: Buzzy Gordon) We also could not resist the dessert called "Spring": a white chocolate tart with cherry ganache, mousses of white chocolate and passion fruit-pineapple, macaroon crumbles and pineapple sorbet. The tart was actually cake that melted in the mouth, while the fruit elements constituted marvelous counterpoints. Deca's 'Spring' dessert (Photo: Buzzy Gordon) Even though we could have washed our desserts down with coffee or cappuccino made with real cream, the tea menu was too intriguing to pass up. Of the four infusions available, we had the Moroccan Mint and Forest Berries, both of which we enjoyed very much. Throughout our meal, the service was impeccable. As it drew to a close, the waiter poured warm water on towelettes, and then wrung them out tableside, handing them to us with tongsa ceremonious touch we had not witnessed in any other upscale Israeli restaurant. Deca also pampers its customers with a private parking lot, where parking is complimentarya welcome bonus in downtown Tel Aviv. This is also one of the features that renders the restaurant eminently handicap accessible. Deca. Kosher (mehadrin). Hataasiya St. 10, Tel Aviv. Tel. (03) 562-9900 Government and business officials, and other members of the Mercer community gather to cut a ribbon to mark the completion of a rebuilt bridge over the Turtle River on Cramer Lake Road Tuesday morning. From left are Betty Meinholz, chamber ambassador, Loon's Nest Motel; Sue Schellgell, chamber ambassador, Schellgell Law Office; Jake Saarnio, town of Mercer road foreman; Mike Graige, Wisconsin Department of Transportation local program project manager; Toni Sendra, Mercer resident; Greg Bubolz, DAAR Engineering project engineer; Opal Roberts, Iron County supervisor; Bill Brundage, chamber ambassador, Mercer Lions Club; Maxine Truemper, chamber ambassador; Pam Davies, Mercer resident; state Rep. Beth Meyers D-Bayfield; Donna Seidel, Mercer landowner; Joyce Olson, Mercer resident; Barry Seidel, Mercer landowner; John Sendra, Mercer Town Chairman; Melissa Sarver, chamber ambassador, Associated Bank; Beth Wetzler, Mercer Chamber director; and Jama Johnson Boes, chamber ambassador, Associated Bank. By LARRY HOLCOMBE [email protected] MERCER, Wis. - Mercer Town Chairman John Sendra was all smiles standing in the middle of a brand new bridge over the Turtle River on Cramer Lake Road Tuesday morning. The bridge was a longtime coming with many hurdles put in front of its progress, but many people stepped up to help, he told a group of 17 government and business leaders, as well as other community members who joined for a ribbon cutting. "It just shows you when a community works together, what can be done," he said. The 125-foot, 40-ton bridge, at a cost of $427,000, replaced a bridge that had two 16-foot culverts that were rotten at the bottom, Sendra said. "We had to change the road limit to 20 tons because we couldn't trust those culverts and didn't know how long they were going to last. So, we had to do this." He said they started planning for reconstruction in 2014, but there were concerns of a 44-mile, one-way detour during construction. Emergency services were a top concern. He called U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Navy wondering if they could get a temporary military-grade bridge to keep the crossing open just three miles from Mercer. That wasn't in the cards. Finally, they secured a route through Dr. Barry Seidel's nearby property for an emergency road during the construction. The bridge was built on an 80-20 matching grant with 80 percent coming from the state and 20 percent local. Sendra said another problem arose when the price went up $120,000 over the four years they struggled to get started. He credited Wisconsin Department of Transportation project engineer Mike Graige for helping secure the additional funds, as well as state Rep. Beth Meyers, D-Bayfield, and her office for their assistance. "Mike Graige was so helpful, without him we wouldn't have got this done," Sendra said. In the end, an eight-week project was completed in under six. DAAR Engineering were engineers for they project and they brought on Larson Construction as general contractor. "They did a wonderful job in the short period of time. It amazed me that they were able to deliver it. They were delayed two weeks before it started from other projects," Sendra said. "We were told they were going to work quickly because everybody was busy. I didn't believe it, but five, six weeks and they were done." Sendra said it was a long process and felt like he had made 1,000 calls. After the brief ceremony and speeches were done, the assembled strolled back their vehicles along the tree lined road ablazed in fall colored splendor. Sendra, still smiling, summed up the bridge and the day, "Here we have it, just gorgeous." News Washington, DC - Support for President Donald J. Trumps Successful Trade Negotiations with Mexico and Canada: Members of Congress Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI): The United States benefits when all three countries are held to the high standards laid out in Trade Promotion Authority. Thats why Im pleased that the Trump administration succeeded in bringing Canada into the fold to reach a trilateral agreement. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY): As someone who voted against NAFTA and opposed it for many years, I knew it needed fixing. The president deserves praise for taking large steps to improve it. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA): President Trump has proved his critics wrong again by delivering on his promise to renegotiate NAFTA in Americas favor. The USMCA is the most impressive result yet of the Trump Administrations trade agenda, which is focused on increasing our nations industrial capacity and protecting high-quality jobs for American workers. Senate Majority Whip John Cornyn (R-TX): This agreement is a positive step toward to maintaining a strong, unified North American economy, and I look forward to reviewing the details. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA): I applaud President Trump for this impressive new agreement with Canada. While many in Washington claimed it could not be done, President Trump worked tirelessly to bring Canada to the table and negotiate a new trade deal that is better for American workers and consumers. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch (R-UT): I am pleased that the Trump administration was able to strike a deal to modernize NAFTA with both Mexico and Canada. Maintaining a trilateral North American deal is an important prerequisite to preserving and extending those gains and the Trump administration has achieved that goal. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee Chairman Pat Roberts (R-KS): This trade pact will provide our farmers and ranchers with much needed export market certainty and will strengthen the relationship with two of our most important trading partners. Sen. David Perdue (R-GA): President Trump is keeping his promise to achieve better trade deals for America. Our economy has changed significantly since NAFTA was signed 24 years ago, and I saw that first-hand living and working around the world. It is encouraging that the Trump Administration succeeded in bringing both Mexico and Canada to the negotiating table. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA): 1st reading of midnight agreement btwn Canada Mexico & US looks very favorable to American + Iowa agriculture Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA): President Trump is making good on his promise to get deals done that will boost confidence, provide certainty and unleash optimism across farm country in Iowa and the rest of the U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS): I appreciate the administration working to make certain these markets remain available to Kansas farmers, ranchers and manufacturers, providing them some much-needed certainty. Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO): Congratulations to President Trump and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer on the USMCA trade agreement. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC): I applaud the Trump Administration on reaching an agreement with Mexico and Canada to replace the outdated NAFTA and ensure our alliances with our neighbors remain strong. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE): Mexico & Canada are NEs 2 largest trading partners. Its encouraging to see that our 3 nations have renegotiated a modernized #NAFTA. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC): I applaud President Trump, Ambassador Lighthizer, Prime Minister Trudeau, President Pena Nieto, and President-elect Lopez Obrador for taking the necessary steps to take on the status quo and work towards a better deal. Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY): Since day one, President Trump and his trade team have promised to level the playing field for American families, workers, and businesses. The presidents announcement of a new, modernized trade agreement with Canada and Mexico represents a major step toward fulfilling that promise. A new approach to North American trade was long overdue. House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX): This important and welcome announcement that the United States, Mexico, and Canada have reached a trilateral agreement to update and modernize NAFTA for the 21st century can be a big win for Americas workers, farmers, and ranchers. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway (R-TX): President Trump promised to deliver a modernized NAFTA agreement that was better for Americas farmers, ranchers, businesses and workers and Im hopeful this newly announced agreement will do just that. Rep. Steve Womack (R-AR): By standing up for U.S. workers and negotiating from strength, the administration has secured a new trade agreement that will further advance Americas interests and priorities. Rep. Francis Rooney (R-FL): The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) on western hemisphere trade is a major victory for all Americans. This modernized replacement of NAFTA will generate economic growth, create new jobs and level the playing field. Rep. Rod Blum (R-IA): @realDonaldTrump @USTradeRep @SecretarySonny @SecretaryRoss promised our farmers a win on trade and are delivering good news for farmers and ag in #IA01 this morning with announcement of the US Mexico Canada Agreement. Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL): The trade agreement announced today with Mexico and Canada is a positive step in putting American workers and farmers on a more even playing field. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-IL): This modernized trade deal will build on the economic growth we have seen, expand markets for farmers and manufacturers and create new, good-paying jobs. I applaud the Trump Administration for their diligent work in securing a better deal for the American people. Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL): Promises made, promises kept. Look forward to reading more details of the #NAFTA replacement, & Im encouraged by the innovative #agriculture #manufacturing priorities of the #USCMA trade deal to benefit our workers, our producers, & our economy. Rep. Larry Bucshon (R-IN): I am pleased to see that a trilateral agreement has been reached between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Rep. Ron Estes (R-KS): The United States-Mexico Trade Agreement unveiled by President Trump today is great news for Kansas farmers and manufacturers. Rep. Paul Mitchell (R-MI): I am extremely pleased to see a new trilateral agreement between the United States, Mexico and Canada that updates and modernizes NAFTA for the 21st century. Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO): As a sixth-generation family farmer, I can say with certainty that #USMCA is HUGE for farmers! Under the leadership of @realDonaldTrump, the U.S. has turned a page on unfair trade deals & rebalanced trade relationships for free, fair, and reciprocal trade. Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-MO): Im pleased w/ new NAFTA agreement with Canada and Mexico. Particularly pleased that Canada is willing to open their dairy markets Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO): Todays USMCA announcement creates more balanced and fairer trade for American workers. It stimulates U.S. manufacturing by supporting domestic vehicle and auto parts production, and sets new standards for agricultural biotechnology. Rep. Mark Meadows (R-NC): Congratulations to @POTUS @realDonaldTrump and the WH team on a job well done renegotiating NAFTAwill be a major win for American workers and farmers. The President continues to deliver on his America First promise. Rep. Kevin Cramer (R-ND): Congratulations @POTUS & @USTradeRep on getting NAFTA agreement done with both Mexico & Canada! Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY): This is tremendous news for our North Country economy, and I applaud U.S. and Canadian negotiators for their tireless work on this important agreement. Rep. Bob Gibbs (R-OH): Since he took office, President Trump set out to work with Congress to negotiate trade agreements that are balanced and beneficial for American workers. NAFTA and other trade agreements need to be updated to reflect changes in the global economy. The President and his team did exactly that. Rep. David Joyce (R-OH): My priority is protecting American workers & businesses. This agreement between all three countries marks an important step in the process to renegotiate #NAFTA. Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH): I am pleased that the United States, Mexico, and Canada have come together in agreement on a modern trade agreement for our modern economy. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA): I strongly congratulate President Trump and Ambassador Lighthizer on securing a new and far better trade agreement with our neighbors to the north and south. This is a major win for American workers, jobs, consumers, and small businesses in Western Pennsylvania and all over our country. Rep. Jeff Duncan (R-SC): HUGE win for the American worker! Job well done, @POTUS @realDonaldTrump! Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC): President Donald Trump successfully negotiated an updated trade agreement to replace the outdated North American Free Trade Agreement, proving once again his commitment to Promises Made, Promises Kept. Rep. Scott DesJarlais (R-TN): This new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, replacing outdated NAFTA, prevents unfair foreign labor competition, protects American technology, and grows domestic manufacturing. Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX): I applaud President Trump for delivering on his campaign promise to strike a new deal with Mexico and Canada a feat many claimed impossible. Rep. Michael Burgess (R-TX): President @realdonaldtrump is delivering on his promise to promote freer markets, fairer trade, and robust economic growth in North America succeeding where previous administrations have failed. Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-TX): I commend the Trump administration for taking steps to renegotiate NAFTA, so we can benefit from more reciprocal and balanced trade that prioritizes American farmers, ranchers, businesses and workers. Rep. John Curtis (R-UT): I am thrilled to see a new NAFTA agreement with Mexico and Canada. I look forward to reviewing the final USCMA. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA): Im encouraged that Canada has joined us and Mexico to create a modern free trade agreement that expands markets for our exporters and further grows our economy. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA): The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement is outstanding news for Americas farmers, ranchers and manufacturers. Under this deal, Central Washington wheat farmers gain fair treatment, and dairy producers gain greater access to the Canadian market. Rep. Dave Reichert (R-WA): I congratulate Ambassador Lighthizer and his team for the work they have done so far in this agreement. With 40% of jobs tied to trade in my home state of Washington, an updated NAFTA agreement is beneficial for our workers, businesses, and farmers. State Officials Gov. Asa Hutchinson (R-AR): #USMCA is good news for AR & AR farmers. The agreement will enable our agricultural producers to continue trade w/ our states export customers in Mexico & Canada. While I am still studying many of the details, this is a victory for American workers & Pres @realDonaldTrump. Gov. John Hickenlooper (D-CO): Lets hope all 3 countries can move ahead with the new trade agreement with certainty, with protections for Colorado farmers, workers and businesses. Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA): I am excited to hear news of this United States-Mexico-Canada agreement. NAFTA has been good for agriculture, but a modernized agreement could provide better gains for Iowa farmers. Strengthening trade with Canada and Mexico provides more certainty to our Iowa farmers and the agribusinesses sector. Gov. Jeff Colyer (R-KS): Renewing and modernizing this agreement will be a great help to farmers, ranchers, and businesses in Kansas. We are grateful to President Trump for his continued support of these industries and the economic health of our state and nation. Gov. Rick Snyder (R-MI): I am pleased to see the U.S., Canada, and Mexico moving forward together again. Updating trade agreements to improve market access and stability for Michigans key industries including agriculture and manufacturing is critically important. Gov. Mike Parson (R-MO): Despite skeptics saying NAFTA could never be fixed, President Trump has continued to deliver on promises made to bring about bold and necessary reforms for our economy. The USMCA trade deal is a positive move for our farmers and for the first time provides support for 21st century innovations in agriculture and biotechnology. Gov. Phil Bryant (R-MS): I have asked Mississippians to be patient and stand firm with @realDonaldTrump. Today America is still winning. Just think what he could do if the Democrats and the mainstream media would stop their relentless attacks. I am proud of my president. Gov. Doug Burgum (R-ND): Were encouraged to hear that negotiators have reached consensus to update our trilateral trade agreement with Canada and Mexico. Were grateful to the administration for its continued efforts to expeditiously negotiate free and fair trade agreements that benefit American producers and consumers. Gov. Pete Ricketts (R-NE): President Trump has delivered on his promise to finalize a new trade deal with Canada and Mexico. The importance of this new deal to Nebraska cannot be overstated. Gov. Dennis Daugaard (R-SD): I am very pleased to hear that the President and his administration have struck a new trade deal that will better serve South Dakota agricultural producers and South Dakota manufacturers. Canada and Mexico rank number one and number two as South Dakotas top international trading partners. Im hopeful this deal will adopted by Congress. Gov. Phil Scott (R-VT): Im very pleased to see leaders in the U.S., Mexico and Canada come to an initial agreement that modernizes the free trade agreement governing these three countries while keeping our trilateral partnership intact. Gov. Scott Walker (R-WI): This is a big win for Wisconsins dairy farmers. This new deal will open up Canadian markets for our dairy farmers, eliminate certain tariffs, and eliminate Canadas protectionist trade policies related to ultra-filtered milk that targeted Wisconsin dairy producers. Gov. Jim Justice (R-WV): Our great president @realDonaldTrump strikes again. No question the USMCA will bring opportunity and job growth to our entire nation and to WV as well. Go Donald go! Ohio Senate President Larry Obhof (R): Todays announcement is a big step forward for mutually beneficial trade. The USMCA will lead to balanced, reciprocal trade that supports high-paying jobs and grows both the U.S. economy and those of our neighbors and trading partners. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig (R): This is the welcome news our farmers need as they bring in this years harvest and plan for 2019. Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles (R): Excited to hear about the new trade deal with Canada and Mexico. Our producers need the certainty that comes from trade. Looking forward to getting the full details of #USMCA in the coming days. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller (R): Just as President Donald J. Trump promised, Canada has agreed to join the new trade agreement with the United States and Mexico to replace the failed NAFTA agreement! Once again, President Donald J. Trumps is keeping his promises. West Virginia Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt (R): We have faith this agreement will put America on equal footing with the rest of the world, as well as benefit the American and West Virginian farmer alike. Cabinet Members United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer Joint Statement with Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland: Today, Canada and the United States reached an agreement, alongside Mexico, on a new, modernized trade agreement for the 21st Century: the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). USMCA will give our workers, farmers, ranchers and businesses a high-standard trade agreement that will result in freer markets, fairer trade and robust economic growth in our region. It will strengthen the middle class, and create good, well-paying jobs and new opportunities for the nearly half billion people who call North America home. Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin: The US-Mexico-Canada deal will open markets and create economic opportunities for workers and businesses across North America. Modernizing this agreement rebalances our important trade partnerships and will boost economic growth for our three nations. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross: This deal clearly vindicates @realDonaldTrumps trade policy. It is fundamental reform. Rest in peace #NAFTA. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue: The great news of a new USMCA deal is important for our economy as a whole, including the agricultural sector, which counts Canada and Mexico in our top three trading partners. We have secured greater access to these vital markets and will maintain and improve the highly productive integrated agricultural relationship we have as nations. Policy & Advocacy Organizations American Automotive Policy Council President Matt Blunt: We are reviewing the final details, but we commend the United States, Canada, and Mexico negotiators for striking a deal. We have supported the negotiations to modernize the NAFTA and we applaud the conclusion of a trilateral agreement. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall: Todays announcement regarding the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement is welcome news. This was a hard-fought win and we commend the administration for all the efforts to solidify the trading relationships we have with our North American neighbors. American Iron and Steel Institute President and CEO Thomas Gibson: We appreciate the administrations hard work to reach this trade agreement between the U.S., Canada and Mexico especially regarding measures that ensure North American steel continues to be used in automobile production. American Petroleum Institute President and CEO Mike Sommers: We urge Congress to approve the USMCA. Having Canada as a trading partner and a party to this agreement is critical for North American energy security and U.S. consumers. Retaining a trade agreement for North America will help ensure the U.S. energy revolution continues into the future. American Soybean Association: The Administrations announcement that it has reached an agreement with Canada, bringing to fruition a trilateral trade agreement including Mexico, is welcome news for soy growers. Americans for Limited Government President Rick Manning: One critical component is the increase in country of origin requirements to 75 percent, which will ensure that automobiles which purport to be made in the U.S., Canada and Mexico will have at least three-quarters of their parts made in North America. Additional concessions on agriculture, intellectual property, manufacturing, currency and labor put America first. American International Automobile Dealers Association President and CEO Cody Lusk: Todays announcement of a trilateral agreement between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico allows the entirety of the auto industry, from manufacturers to hometown dealers, to once again plan for the future. Association of Equipment Manufacturers President Dennis Slater: The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is a step in the right direction. Trade agreements provide better access to customers across the globe and help us add to the 1.3 million jobs our industry supports in the United States. Business Roundtable: Business Roundtable is encouraged that the Administration has struck a deal with Canada and Mexico on updating NAFTA, maintaining its trilateral structure that is critical for North American supply chains. Business Software Alliance: The Software Alliance applauds the announcement of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), in connection with efforts to modernize the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). U.S. Chamber of Commerce CEO Thomas Donohue: We welcome the announcement that negotiators have reached a deal to modernize NAFTA. We look forward to reviewing the details with our members to determine next steps, and we commend the negotiators for their commitment to finding a path forward that includes the US, Mexico, and Canada. Coalition for a Prosperous America Chairman Dan DiMicco: [The Presidents] economic and trade teams, led by US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, have taken another strong step to improve Americas global competitiveness through smart trade reform. Coalition of Services Industries President Christine Bliss: It is encouraging that the USMCA contains a number of very positive elements, including strong telecom and digital trade chapters, and a prohibition on data localization for financial services. U.S. Grains Council Chairman Jim Stitzlein: The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) is very pleased to see the United States, Mexico and Canada have reached a new agreement. We appreciate the dedicated, hard work of our negotiating team to achieve this outcome with our neighbors and customers International Dairy Foods Association President and CEO Michael Dykes: Maintaining dairy market access in Mexico and improving market access into Canada were IDFAs top priorities during the talks to modernize the North American Free Trade Agreement. Were also pleased that the Administration was successful in getting Canada to eliminate Class 7 pricing. This new agreement will preserve our vital partnership with both countries and allow the U.S. dairy industry to seek more export opportunities. Internet Association Director of Trade Policy Jordan Haas: The internet sector commends USTR and its counterparts in Canada and Mexico for coming to a new trilateral trade agreement to modernize NAFTA. National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons: Manufacturers are extremely encouraged that our call for a trilateral agreement between the United States, Canada and Mexico has been answered. National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA): We are encouraged by the news of a tri-lateral #NAFTA agreement with Canada and look forward to reviewing the agreement. National Cattlemens Beef Association President Kevin Kester: This new agreement is great news for American cattle producers, and another sign that President Trumps overall trade strategy is working. National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern: We appreciate that the Trump Administration continually raised the profile of our issues at the negotiating table. National Retail Federation President and CEO Matthew Shay: The administration, as well as officials from Canada and Mexico, should be applauded for months of hard work aimed at modernizing NAFTA for the 21st century a goal retailers have shared from the start. Nebraska Corn Board Chairman David Bruntz: We still have a little way to go with final approvals, but this is definitely a step in the right direction and we appreciate the work our administration has done to meet the NAFTA withdrawal deadline. Nebraska Farm Bureau President Steve Nelson: The announcement that the U.S., Canada, and Mexico have come to terms on a new and improved free-trade agreement is a major win for Nebraskas farmers and ranchers and an important step forward in helping eliminate trade related uncertainty in agricultural markets. Plastic Industry Association President and CEO William Carteaux: The North American plastics industry works best when it works together, and we applaud negotiators for their hard work to modernize a trade agreement that will benefit the economies of the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council President Karen Kerrigan: We applaud President Trump and his team for going the distance with our trading partners and getting a trilateral deal done. Yuma News Yuma, Arizona - On Friday, September 28, at approximately 6:08 p.m., Yuma Police Department Officers responded to a serious injury motor vehicle collision in the intersection of 32nd Street and Avenue 4E. The initial investigation revealed a 2005 Dodge Neon, driven by an 18 year old male, was traveling north bound on Avenue 4E. A 2013 Nissan Murano, driven by a 67 year old male, was traveling west bound on 32nd Street. The vehicles collided in the intersection, causing a 17 year old female passenger in the Dodge Neon to be ejected from the vehicle. All three occupants of the vehicles were transported to Yuma Regional Medical Center. The 17 year old passenger and 67 year old driver were later flown out to a Phoenix Hospital with serious, non-life threatening injuries. All are considered to be in stable condition. This case is still under investigation. Alcohol and drugs do not appear to be a factor in this collision. The Yuma Police Department Traffic Division would like to remind drivers to obey all traffic signals. All drivers and passengers should always wear a seatbelt while traveling in a motor vehicle. The Yuma Police Department encourages anyone with any information about this case to please the Yuma Police Department at (928) 373-4700 or 78-Crime at (928) 782-7463 to remain anonymous. Yuma News Yuma, Arizona - The first-ever pledge drive for KOFA Border Radio will be taking place Wednesday, October 3, until Saturday, October 6, at 11 a.m. Arizona Western College President Dr. Daniel Corr will kick off the drive as the first guest DJ at 7 a.m. Wednesday morning. After being known for 48 years as KAWC AM1320, the station transitioned to KOFA 1320 Border Radio on April 30. Colorado River Public Medias new all-music service features significantly more local music and student-hosted programming. The format shift was one of 12 AWC Innovation Fund Projects funded in January as part of the AWC Strategic Plan 2025. When creating projects, Innovation Fund teams focused on efforts that help produce student-centered, thriving communities. KOFA Border Radio is geared towards music lovers who want a commercial-free alternative to the same old, same old and who love an eclectic mix of great music from top artists in all music genres. The station broadcasts on 1320AM in Yuma, on the Arizona Community Radio Network in Northern Arizona, on the RadioFX app, on the Tune-In app, and on www.borderradioaz.org. Meanwhile, KAWC News at 88.9FM continues to provide NPR and BBC News, and local coverage from the KAWC Newsroom. Our directory features more than 18 million business listings from across the entire US. However, if we're missing your business, add your business by clicking on Add Your Business. The following companies are subsidiares of Exxon Mobil: AKG Marketing Company Limited, Aera Energy LLC, Al-Jubail Petrochemical Company, Ampolex (Cepu) Pte Ltd, Ancon Insurance Company Inc., Barnett Gathering LLC, Barzan Gas Company Limited, Caspian Pipeline Consortium, Celtic Exploration Ltd., Coral FLNG S.A., Cross Timbers Energy LLC, Ellora Energy Inc., Esmeroon Oil Transporta Imperial Oil Limited, Esso (Thailand) Public Company Limited, Esso Australia Resources Pty Ltd, Esso Deutschland GmbH, Esso Erdgas Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, Esso Exploration Angola (Block 15) Limited, Esso Exploration Angola (Block 17) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Angola (Overseas) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Chad Inc., Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Deepwater) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Offshore East) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, Esso Exploration and Production UK Limited, Esso Global Investments Ltd., Esso Italiana S.r.l., Esso Nederland B.V., Esso Norge AS, Esso Petroleum Company Limited, Esso Raffinage, Esso Societe Anonyme Francaise, Exxo Holdings Inc., Exxon Azerbaijan Limited, Exxon Chemical Arabia Inc., Exxon International Finance Company, Exxon Luxembourg Holdings LLC, Exxon Mobile Bay Limited Partnership, Exxon Neftegas Limited, Exxon Overseas Corporation, Exxon Overseas Investment Corporation, ExxonMobil (China) Investment Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil (Taicang) Petroleum Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil Abu Dhabi Offshore Petroleum Company Limited, ExxonMobil Alaska Production Inc., ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., ExxonMobil Australia Pty Ltd, ExxonMobil B Resources Company, ExxonMobil Capital Finance Company, ExxonMobil Capital Netherlands B.V., ExxonMobil Central Europe Holding GmbH, ExxonMobil Cepu Limited, ExxonMobil Chemical France, ExxonMobil Chemical Gulf Coast Investments LLC, ExxonMobil Chemical Holland B.V., ExxonMobil Chemical Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil China Petroleum & Petrochemical Company Limited, ExxonMobil Development Africa B.V., ExxonMobil Development Company, ExxonMobil Egypt (S.A.E.), ExxonMobil Exploracao Brasil Ltda., ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Malaysia Inc., ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Norway AS, ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Romania Limited, ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Tanzania Limited, ExxonMobil Finance Company Limited, ExxonMobil Financial Investment Company Limited, ExxonMobil France Holding SAS, ExxonMobil Gas Marketing Europe Limited, ExxonMobil General Finance Company, ExxonMobil Global Services Company, ExxonMobil Golden Pass Surety LLC, ExxonMobil Holding Company Holland LLC, ExxonMobil Holding Norway AS, ExxonMobil Hong Kong Limited, ExxonMobil International Services SARL, ExxonMobil Iraq Limited, ExxonMobil Italiana Gas S.r.l., ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Inc., ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Ventures Inc., ExxonMobil LNG Services B.V., ExxonMobil Lubricants Trading Company, ExxonMobil Oil Corporation, ExxonMobil PNG Limited, ExxonMobil Petroleum & Chemical BVBA, ExxonMobil Petroleum & Chemical Holdings Inc., ExxonMobil Pipeline Company, ExxonMobil Production Deutschland GmbH, ExxonMobil Production Norway Inc., ExxonMobil Qatargas (II) Limited, ExxonMobil Qatargas Inc., ExxonMobil Ras Laffan (III) Limited, ExxonMobil Rasgas Inc., ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company, ExxonMobil Russia Kara Sea Holdings B.V., ExxonMobil Sales and Supply LLC, ExxonMobil Technology Finance Company, ExxonMobil Ventures Finance Company, ExxonMobil Ventures Funding Ltd., Fujian Refining & Petrochemical Co. Ltd., Golden Pass LNG Terminal Investments LLC, Golden Pass LNG Terminal LLC, Gulf Coast Growth Ventures LLC, Imperial Oil Limited, Imperial Oil Resources Limited, Imperial Oil Resources N.W.T. Limited, Imperial Oil/Petroliere Imperiale, Infineum Italia s.r.I., Infineum Singapore Pte. Ltd., InterOil Corporation, Jurong Aromatics Corporation Pte Ltd, MPM Lubricants, Marine Well Containment Company LLC, Mobil Australia Resources Company Pty Limited, Mobil California Exploration & Producing Asset Company, Mobil Caspian Pipeline Company, Mobil Chemical Products International Inc., Mobil Corporation, Mobil Equatorial Guinea Inc., Mobil Erdgas Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH, Mobil Exploration & Producing Australia Pty Ltd, Mobil International Petroleum Corporation, Mobil Oil Australia Pty Ltd, Mobil Oil Exploration & Producing Southeast Inc., Mobil Oil New Zealand Limited, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, Mobil Producing Texas & New Mexico Inc., Mobil SerLimited, Mobil Venezolana De Petroleos Inc., Mobil Yanbu Petrochemical Company Inc., Mobil Yanbu Refining Company Inc., Mountain Gathering LLC, Mozambique Rovuma Venture S.p.A., Palmetto Transoceanic LLC, Papua New Guinea Liquefied Natural Gas Global Company LDC, Permian Express Partners LLC, Phillips Exploration LLC, Qatar Liquefied Gas Company Limited, Ras Laffan Liquefied Natural Gas Company Limited, Ras Laffan Liquefied Natural Gas Company Limited (II), SPI Limited, Saudi Aramco Mobil Refinery Company Ltd., Saudi Yanbu Petrochemical Co., SeaRiver Maritime Inc., South Hook LNG Terminal Company Limited, Tengizchevroil LLP, Terminale GNL Adriatico S.r.l, Trend Gathering & Treating LLC, Wolverine Pipe Line Company, XH LLC, XTO Delaware Basin LLC, XTO ENERGY, XTO Energy Canada, and XTO Holdings LLC. Ormat Technologies, Inc. operates as a holding company. The firm engages in the provision of geothermal and recovered energy power business. It operates through the following segments: Electricity, Product and Energy Storage. The Electricity segment focuses in the sale of electricity from the company's power plants pursuant to PPAs. The Product segment involves in the manufacture, including design and development, of turbines and power units for the supply of electrical energy and in the associated construction of power plants utilizing the power units manufactured by the company to supply energy from geothermal fields and other alternative energy sources. The Energy Storage segment consists of battery energy storage systems as a service and management of curtailable customer loads under contracts with U.S. retail energy providers and directly with large commercial and industrial customers. The company was founded in 1965 and is headquartered in Reno, NV. Read More Westpac Banking Corp. engages in the provision of banking and financial services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Bank, Business Bank, BT Financial Group (Australia), Westpac Institutional Bank, Westpac New Zealand and Group Businesses. The Consumer Bank segment covers consumer banking products and services under the Westpac, St. George, BankSA, Bank of Melbourne and RAMS brands. The Business Bank segment involves in sales and customer service of small-to-medium enterprise, commercial and agribusiness customers under the Westpac, St.George, Bank of Melbourne and BankSA brands. The BT Financial Group (Australia) segment manages wealth and insurance division. The Westpac Institutional Bank segment delivers a range of financial services to commercial, corporate, institutional, and government customers. The Westpac New Zealand segment comprises sales and service of banking, wealth, and insurance products for consumer, business, and institutional customers. The Group Businesses segment treasury which is responsible for the management of the Group's balance sheet, group technology which includes functions for the Australian businesses, and core support which covers Read More African World Airlines limited (AWA) is a Ghanaian private company that was established in 2012 with the primary mandate of providing effective air transport solutions to people in Ghana. The company was incorporated in November 2010 and was licensed by the Ghana Aviation Authority to fly passengers on March 2011. The first flight was launched on 21st September 2012. The core founder of the airline company is Togbe Afede xiv who is the chief executive officer for the SAS financial group. The major shareholders of the company include Zhongjia investment ltd and Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT). Africa World Airline is currently among the best domestic airlines, operating in Ghana and beyond. It is, therefore, crucial to get the Africa World Airlines contact information to prepare in case you need to travel. Africa World Airline is currently operating in Ghana and Nigeria. In Ghana, the airline operates in four major cities, which include Accra, Takoradi, Tamale and Kumasi. In Nigeria, the airline operates in Lagos and Abuja. Recently, the company expanded its operations to Monrovia in Liberia. It is expected that Africa World Airline will expand further to reach other countries like Cote d Ivoire and Sierra Leone. READ ALSO: Asamoah Gyans Baby Jet Airline start recruiting; heres how to get a job Contact details of Africa World Airlines African World Airlines has gained a lot of popularity over the last five years of its operation. The affordable services and efficiency of travelling are probably some of the core reasons behind this popularity. The following is a summary of Africa World Airlines contact details, which will provide you with access to AWA services. Here are some of the crucial contact details: Office in Accra Ghana SSNIT Empodium Ground floor, Airport City. Liberation road PMB CT67, Cantonment Accra Ghana. (233)- (30) 7012024 (233) - (24) 2438888 Email: awaoffice@flyafricaworld.com Kumasi telephone number: 030-297-4918 Tamale telephone number: 030-297-4919 READ ALSO: Cheap flights from Accra to Lagos Abuja Office Airport ticketing office public concourse terminal C. Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja. Town Office 5 Usuma, close off Gana street Maitama Abuja. Abuja office Working hours 8 am 4 pm Monday to Saturday. Contact of Africa World Airlines in Abuja are as follows; +2348171481189 and +2348171481480 Email: Abuja.sales@flyafricaworld.com Town office operates from 8 am 4 pm. Lagos airport office Airport ticketing office D wing Second-floor room 2030. Murtala Mohammed International Airport Ikeja, Lagos Important contact information are as follows: +234 (1) 342 7130 +234 (1) 342 7132 Sales.lagos@flyafricaworld.com Monrovia office Roberts International Airport (RIA) Lower Margidi County, Monrovia Liberia. (+231) 881 108666 (+231) 886 691623 (+231) 881 108682 Town office Located on the 1st floor of Kabah building Mechlin Street, Monrovia, Liberia. Email address: Sales@air-mc.com (+231) 775 450010 (+231) 776 578812 Working hours for Monrovia airport office 8 am 5 pm Monday to Friday. Town office 8 am 5 pm Monday to Friday 8 am- 2 pm Saturday. Physical contacts and head office The head offices and administration of Africa World Airline are located in SSNIT empodium, Ground floor, airport city Liberation road cantonment, Accra, Ghana. Major Africa World Airlines contact in Accra are as follows; (233)- (30) 7012024 (233) - (24) 2438888 Services offered Services offered by Africa World Airlines Africa World Airlines provides two main types of services to its customers. They include flight schedule services and chartered services. I. Flight schedule service This service provides departure and arrival times of different destinations within Ghana, Ghana to Nigeria and Ghana to Liberia. The schedule shows flights available at different times of the day from Monday to Saturday. It is essential for travellers to go through the program before they plan for a journey. Below is an example of the flight schedule. 2. Chartered flights Africa World Airline also offers exclusive chartered services like chartered flights for the Canadian Government, Chartered flights to Tamale by the World Vision International among others. Chartered flight requests need the clients to apply for the transportation. People who want to get chartered services can apply using the forms on the official website. Alternatively, clients can use the Africa World Airlines Ghana contact number for further guidance from the AWA customer care desk. It is comfortable and convenient to travel with AWA flight. Try them on your next journey. With the above Africa World Airlines contact, it is easy for anyone to reach them. You can also call or communicate via email to make your flight bookings. The airline offers a chance for you to enjoy convenient services. READ ALSO: Ethiopian Airlines Ghana contact numbers and offices Source: Yen Ghana post contact details are an essential. Office administrators, government agents or financial executives rely on the efficiency of postal services to carry out their daily activities. The main influential factor in both government and private sector is communication. It is essential for any board of management to deliver mails, parcels and other information to clients, customers, and employees among others on time. Both domestic and foreign businesses also depend on postal services to reach their customers. The increased electronic technology in communication has not substituted the significance of this critical service. Postal service is still competent as it provides a simple and efficient way of sending mails as well as deliveries of a similar nature to office administrators. It has been a core communication channel in Ghana since the 18th century. This article will give the Ghana post contact information that is reliable to all people in Ghana and beyond. Ghana postal services Ghana Post Company is a public corporation that is responsible for providing postal services in Ghana. The company offers courier, agency, postal, retail and financial services to the people of Ghana. It was established in 1854 to serve as the Department of Post and telecommunication for the colonial government in Ghana. The company has undergone critical changes, including that of 1974, where the company changed to a state corporation. In 1993, the department of telecommunication was removed, and the corporation was renamed Ghana Postal Services Corporation. It was later incorporated under the company code, which enabled it to be a limited liability company. The company has gradually developed despite many inventions of electronic media technology and advancement in communication techniques. Many business administrators have faith and confidence in postal services as opposed to new electronic systems. The following is, therefore, summarized and reliable Ghana post contacts, which can help one deliver a parcel. READ ALSO: Mechanical lloyd contacts, phone and offices Contact Ghana post office The Ghana Post Company is a limited company, which operates as a monopoly in the country. All people who depend on postal services primarily rely on the Ghana Post to carry out their business. Ghana post offices are spread in all corners of the country with the aim of providing efficient services to all people in Ghana and beyond. Important Ghana Post head office contact numbers and addresses are given as follows: Customer service contacts +233 (0)579 579 100 +233 (0)302 668 138 +233 (0)302 668 138 Email address: info@ghanapost.com.gh Reporting and complaint centre In case of any instance of employee misconduct or careless driving, a report should be made through the email address; complaints@ghanapost.com.gh. Ghana post head office Ghana post head office contact details are Phone number: +233 (0) 302 668 138 Address: G.P.O, Asafoatse Nettey Road, Accra, Central Ghana. Whatsapp: +233 542 527 004/ +233 0502 630 643 Digital address: GA-183-8164 Specific details for branches like Ghana post Kumasi contact information are also the same as that of the head office. Therefore, these contact details apply to other branches of Ghana Post. READ ALSO: List of cities in Belgium size and population Ghana post offices Apart from the post office headquarters in Accra, there are many other post offices located in different parts of the country. Here are some of the major post offices from various districts of Ghana. Accra Central post offices These include the following: Art Centre (B) 31 ST Dec. MTK (B) Exams Council (C) G.P.O Arc (A) Adabraka (B) James Town (A) Mistry P.O (A) Mamprobi (B) Sports Stadium (C) and T.U.C. P.O (B) Accra East post offices These include: Abokobi(C) Castle P.O.(C) Dodowa(C) Madina La (B) Nungua (B) Osu (B) Statehouse(C) Nungua est (B) Teshie (B) Trade fair (B) Kotoka airport Burma camp Agomeda Accra North post offices These include: Accra Newtown (B) Achimota New Market (A) Legon (A) Accra North P.O. (A) Nima (B) Atomic Energy Achimota (B) Pokuase Alajo (B), Ofanko (C) and Cantonments (A) READ ALSO: List of law firms in Ghana Accra Tema post offices These include: Adokope (BD) Ada Foah (B) Kasseh New Ningo (BD) Sakumono (B) Big Ada Community 7(B) Community 2(B) Sege Tema C. 11(A) Prampram (B) Tema Wharf (B). Accra West post offices These include: Nii Boiman (B) Weija (C) Abeka (C) Dansoman (A) Mallam (C) North Kaneshie (C) Odorkor (C) Lartebiokorshie Abossey Okai (B) S.T.C Post offices (C) Korle-bu (B) All other regions of Ghana including the Ashanti region, Central region, Eastern region, Upper East region, Northern region among other regions have post offices, which are used by people in those regions. Services offered by the Ghana Post Company Ghana Post Company provides a variety of services to the people of Ghana. It has been a highly reliable company due to its efficient and accurate service to customers. Some of the services offered by this company include: Courier services Financial services E-commerce services Courier services The Ghana Post Company provides courier services through express mail. These services are available for merchandise and document transfers within Ghana and to other countries. The core role of the company is to provide more rapid, accurate and efficient service to the public and other bodies in the country. The company also handles different roles like export service which targets small-scale exporters in the country. Another prominent courier service is the Same Day Delivery service. This service is designed to deliver documents and merchandise on the same day they are sent to the Post. The service operates in Accra and other selected cities in the country. It is continuously being improved and is currently fitted with tracking devices, which help to determine if items have reached their final destination. Clients who want more information on this service can use the Ghana Post EMS contact number or customer service numbers to seek more clarity. Customer care will give direction and may issue other contact numbers for specific departments. Speed links also offer another component of the Ghana courier service. Speed link provides the fastest means of transport for documents and parcels. Parcels, which have been left out or those that are needed urgently, use this method. It is the best postal service that links individuals to corporate bodies in Ghana. READ ALSO: List of companies selling lands in Ghana Financial services Financial service is a newly introduced department in the Ghana Post Company, that deals with the handling of all financial services that are rendered by the company. The service targets all domestic and international money transfers that are carried out by the company. Foreign currency transfers, which are currently done at the Ghana Post, include express fund, cash for Africa and Western Union money transfers. The Ghana Post, however, cannot send money to people abroad because the service is not completely installed. With a few modalities put in place, and when complete, the service will be available to all people in Ghana. E-Commerce service With rapid improvement in technology, the company is changing to offer online services. The primary importance of e-commerce in Ghana post is to open online shops to improve customer services among customers. Items bought by customers through online platforms are to be delivered through motorbikes and delivering vans. Other services The Ghana Post Company also offers other services, which are meant to increase the efficiency of the company. Some of these services are as follows: A door-to-door service. Ghana Post is encouraging good relationship between the company and customers by venturing into personal selling. Mails can now be delivered to customers homes. The strategy has helped to cut off transport cost incurred by the customers when going to collect their documents and parcels from the post office. Parcel service. The companys core role is to deliver packages to both domestic and foreign destinations. To reach this objective, the company has more than 700 post offices across Ghana, which enable to serve all customers. High level of security is guaranteed to the parcels by an installation of CCTV cameras in all exchange sites. Business mail service. This is a luxury service for big companies and institutions. Business mail service involves collecting bulk mails from the doors of the institution before taking them to the Ghana post office for processing. This service is usually treated as urgent. Direct mail services. This service is rendered to companies and other business organizations. It gives an opportunity for companies and individual to advertise their products. The major advantage of this service is that it helps to reach a vast number of people countrywide. Argent services. This involves priority mails from institutions of learning like universities and colleges. They are usually treated as urgent parcels. Ghana Post Company is a reliable public corporation in Ghana. Unlike electronic methods of sending letters and parcels, which are sometimes affected by internet unavailability, the Ghana Post is not influenced by such factors. It provides efficient services to domestic and foreign customers. The encouraging thing about the company is that it continuously improves its services to all customers making it the best option for everyone in Ghana. Take Ghana Post contact and try using their services for effective deliveries anywhere in Ghana. Source: Yen A popular 'man of God' in Zimbabwe has reportedly been caught sleeping with a married church member in a bush. According to reports YEN.com.gh has sighted, Pastor Joseph Ponda who hails from Tynwald in Dzivarasekwa, Zimbabwe was caught red-handed in the act. Ponda, a pastor with the Apostolic Faith Mission, the report added, was beaten up by passers-by who apprehended him. Pastor Joseph Ponda and the woman she was caught with Source: Original In a video found in the report, a man said to be Ponda is seen being beaten, humiliated and also being forced to run with the lady. READ ALSO: Beautiful photos as Ghanaian pilot Captain Quainoo finally flies world's biggest plane to Accra Sources say the woman also lives in Dzivarasekwa just like her pastor. READ ALSO: Mahama lists 4 critical things he'll do to fix Akufo-Addo's 'Free SHS' I have seen the pastor with the woman, whom he was caught with several times in his vehicle. The woman is a single parent and also stays here in Dzivarasekwa. I never suspected that there was something going on between them until I saw the video. I had the opportunity to see him after the incident and he was in serious pain from the assault, H-metro reported a source to have said. When contacted for comment, the report added, Ponda who could not deny or confirm the allegations, however, said: I have a lot to say about what happened and I can not tell you over the phone. I will be free in two hours. READ ALSO: Captain of the world's biggest plane announced take-off in Twi as he headed for Accra (Video) It was further gathered that the church is set to demote the pastor if investigations reveal that the allegation against him is true. Meanwhile, YEN.com.gh has sighted a video excerpt of a yet-to-be-released Kumawood movie which is causing a stir on social media. In the leaked video, one actress identified as Instagram model Shuga Titi is seen stripping naked in front of two men. This has received condemnations with some calling for the movie which also features Lil Win and Kwaku Manu to be banned. READ ALSO: Melania Trump donates equipment to Ridge Hospital; shares gifts at children's ward (Photos) Ghana News Today: Drivers angry over hike in Fuel price | Yen.com.gh: READ ALSO: Photos of Ghanaian pilot Captain Quainoo who flies world's biggest aircraft Share your views on this with us in the comments section below. Do you have a story to share with us? Inbox us on our Facebook/Instagram page and we could feature your story. To stay up to date with the latest news, download our news app on Google Play today Source: Yen.com.gh The legal case between on-air personality, Afia Schwarzenegger, and her ex-husband have been re-opened again. According to a Daily Guide report sighted by YEN.com.gh, the case has taken another twist as the prosecution has presented a new witness in the case which was originally closed by the court. An Accra Circuit Court presided over by Abena Oppong Adjin-Doku had closed the prosecutions case because they were struggling to find their next witness to testify in the trial. READ ALSO: Princess Shyngle reveals how Nigerian blackmailers got access to her adult videos Private legal practitioner, Anthony Namo, who is lead counsel for Afias embattled ex-husband, Lawrence Abrokwa, was expected to file his submission of no case for the court to rule on it on October 8, 2018. But things took a different twist when the prosecution, led by Chief Inspector Maxwell Oppong, presented one Detective Sergeant Simon Amegatse to testify on behalf of the substantive investigator, Sergeant Owusu Boateng. Owusu Boateng who handled the case, the court heard, has been admitted at the hospital and is said to be in critical health condition and cannot even talk. READ ALSO: 5 lovely photos of Moesha Boduong It was for this reason that another police officer was made to stand in for the substantive case investigator. Detective Sergeant Simon Amegatses testimony was close to nothing as he virtually just tendered in a medical report and investigation caution statements and other statements taken from Lawrence Abrokwa. He even told the court that he knew Afia Schwarzeneggers ex-husband to be the complainant as he had lodged a complaint at the police station, stating that he was having some issues with her. READ ALSO: Sarkodie finally replies Shatta Wale He stated that he is now getting to know that Lawrence Abrokwa, who had initially lodged a complaint against her wife at the time, is now the accused person in the matter. Chief Inspector Oppong then informed the court that the prosecution at that point would like close their case as they do not intend to waste the courts time. During cross-examination, the defence lawyer, Anthony Namo, pointed out to the police officer that the only thing written in the medical report was what Afia told the doctor that the ex-husband had pulled her braided hair and some strands were pulled out. But Chief Inspector Oppong intervened, saying the witness cannot answer that question as he was not the author of the medical report. The lawyer then read the medical report to confirm that what it contained was Afias account to the doctor that her braided was pulled by Lawrence Abrokwa and some of the braids pulled out. Mr. Namo then ended the cross-examination and indicated that he will still go ahead to file a submission of no case. The presiding judge, Abena Oppong Adjin-Doku, subsequently adjourned the matter to October 22, 2018. Lawrence Abrokwa, Afia Schwarzeneggers ex-husband, is before an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly recording and distributing her naked video. He is facing eight charges, including two counts of domestic violence, threat of harm, assault, publication of obscene material, stealing, carrying offensive weapon and causing unlawful damage. He pleaded not guilty to all the charges and was granted bail by the court. Yenkasa: What if your child sin't your biological offspring? Your stories and photos are always welcome. Send us a message via YEN's official Facebook page. Source: Yen.com.gh As earlier reported by YEN.com.gh US First Lady, Melania Trump, has arrived in Ghana as part of her extended solo international mission to Ghana. Mrs Trump was met on arrival by Ghanas First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo. As part of her tour, Mrs Trump has visited the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, popularly known as Ridge Hospital. Melania Trump (Source: UTV/Facebook) Source: Facebook At the Ridge Hospital, the US First Lady donated a phototherapy machine. READ ALSO: Beautiful photos as Ghanaian pilot Captain Quainoo finally flies world's biggest plane to Accra Melania Trump receives a welcome bouquet (Source: UTV/Facebook) Source: Facebook The machine is said to be used in the treatment of neonatal jaundice in babies. READ ALSO: Photos of Ghanaian pilot Captain Quainoo who flies world's biggest aircraft Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in newborn babies, affecting about 50% of term and 80% of preterm babies researchers have said Melania Trump with Ghana's First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo Source: Facebook For such babies, phototherapy is used in their treatment to prevent any acute or chronic brain damage. READ ALSO: First video from the world's biggest plane which is coming to Kotoka's Terminal 3 pops up Speaking after the donation, Medical Director of the Hospital, Dr Emmanuel Srofenyo was elated by the gesture. Melania Trump was all smiles as she carried this baby Source: Facebook This particular equipment is one of the best in the market and so we are very excited that it has been donated. This one is going to add to the number of phototherapy equipment that we have which is going to go a long way in saving the lives of babies who develop that complication of jaundice during the neonatal period, Dr Srofenyo told Joy News. Source (UTV/Facebook) Source: Facebook Apart from the phototherapy machine, Mrs Trump also donated hampers and gifts to mothers and children at the Child Welfare Clinic of the Hospital. READ ALSO: Model Shuga Titi strips naked in new Kumawood movie with Lil Win (Video) Mrs Trump who will spend two days in Ghana and she is expected to visit Cape Coast on the second leg of her tour. From Ghana she is expected to leave for Malawi, Kenya and Egypt to also promote her Be Best child welfare initiative. The Be Best initiative was launched earlier this year to focus on overall child well-being, with an emphasis on opioid addiction and online behaviour. Ghana News Today: President Akufo-Addo Narrowly Escapes Jet Crash: Share your views on this with us in the comments section below. Do you have a story to share with us? Inbox us on our Facebook/Instagram page and we could feature your story. To stay up to date with the latest news, download our news app on Google Play today Source: Yen - Prisoners at the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons have threatened to embark on a demonstration if the current leadership is not changed - This follows what the prisoners describe as unfair treatments from some of the officers - Key among these unfair treatments is the prisoner's accusation that some officers have been snatching their wives There is a growing tension at the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons as inmates have demanded the immediate removal of the leadership of the prison officer managing the facility, YEN.com.gh has gathered. According to a report by Kasapafmonline, the prisoners have threatened to embark on a massive demonstration in the prison yard which will be very difficult for anybody to control should their call fall on deaf ears. The inmates are reportedly issuing this threat because they feel the leadership of the prisons have for some time now been treating them unfairly. The Nsawam Prison (Source: YEN.com.gh) Source: UGC For instance, the inmates allege that some of the prison officers have been snatching their wives from them when they come around for a visit. READ ALSO: Top pastor caught 'chopping' married church member in a bush (Video) One of the in-charge officers (name withheld) has been exchanging telephone numbers with our wives when they come around to visit us. He will then call to propose to them and will end up telling them all manner of things. "Most of us here, our marriages are on the rocks because of these officers. They are supposed to be professionals but their actions have proven otherwise. The authorities have to change them immediately, one of the inmates is quoted to have said. Another inmate who also wants to remain anonymous also claimed that some of the officers have, in recent times, resorted to dividing any food items their visitors bring to them into two, give them half and orders the visitors to return the other half home. READ ALSO: Beautiful photos drop as world's biggest plane flown by Ghanaian lands in Accra They are not giving us good food and when your visitor brings you food from the house, they will order for the food to be divided into two and give you half. On Thursday, September 27, 2018, one of my family members from the Brong Ahafo Region visited me. "She brought along some food but was ordered to divide the food item into two and return half home. The other half which was allowed into the yard and was supposed to be given to me also lost at the visitors room. The ordeal we are going through must stop," he lamented To the inmates, they have endured these unfortunate incidents for some time now but cannot allow it to go on again. READ ALSO: Captain of the world's biggest plane announced take-off in Twi as he headed for Accra (Video) Therefore, the earlier the in-charge officers are changed the better else they will embark on a demonstration for the world to know what they are going through. Meanwhile, YEN.com.gh has shared stunning photos of US First Lady Melania Trump's visit to the Ridge Hospital in Accra where she donated a phototherapy machine. Apart from the machine, Mrs Trump shared hampers and other gifts for mothers and babies at the Hospital's Child Welfare Clinic. The visit forms part of the US First Lady's two-day tour of Ghana. READ ALSO: Meet Ghanaian pilot Captain Quainoo who flew biggest plane in the world to Accra Ghana News Today: President Akufo-Addo Narrowly Escapes Jet Crash: READ ALSO: Model Shuga Titi strips naked in new Kumawood movie with Lil Win (Video) Share your views on this with us in the comments section below. Do you have a story to share with us? Inbox us on our Facebook/Instagram page and we could feature your story. To stay up to date with the latest news, download our news app on Google Play today Source: Yen.com.gh - Hannah Tetteh has begun work as the UN's Director-General in Kenya - She was appointed by the UN Secretary-General in July to replace Sahle-Work Zewde - Ms Tetteh's daughter has shared photos of her mother's first day at work in Kenya The former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hannah Tetteh has started her new job as the Director-General of the United Nations office in Kenya. Ms Tetteh who arrived in Kenya on Tuesday, October 2, 2018, started work immediately. On her first day at work, the new Director-General took part in the celebration of the International Day of Non-Violence, marked on 2 October, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement. Photos: Hannah Tetteh starts work as Director-General for UN office in Kenya Source: Twitter Elated by the feat, Ms Tetteh's beautiful daughter, Carla Simone, took to Instagram to share photos of her mother's first day at work. READ ALSO: Beautiful photos drop as Ghanaian pilot Captain Quainoo finally flies world's biggest plane to Accra She captioned the photos: "Temp post please. Meet the DG for the UNON and Africa as a whole. A rank directly under Secretary General. Tried not to do this but this lady deserves some accolades so I beg allow it for today!" Appointed by the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, somewhere in July, Hanna Tetteh succeeds Ms. Sahle-Work Zewde. Photos: Hannah Tetteh starts work as Director-General for UN office in Kenya Source: Instagram Ms Zewde herself had previously appointed a special representative to the African Union and Head of the United Nations Office to the African Union (UNOAU). READ ALSO: Captain of the world's biggest plane announced take-off in Twi as he headed for Accra (Video) Photos: Hannah Tetteh starts work as Director-General for UN office in Kenya Source: Twitter This is the first-ever major international appointment for Ms Tetteh who has become a very prominent figure in Ghanaian politics since 2008. READ ALSO: Top pastor caught 'chopping' married church member in a bush (Video) Photos: Hannah Tetteh starts work as Director-General for UN office in Kenya Source: Twitter After serving as the communications director for the NDC's 2008 campaign, she was appointed as Minister for Trade and Industry from 2009 to 2013 after former President John Atta Mills won power. READ ALSO: Prisoners accuse officers of snatching their wives; threaten to strike back Photos: Hannah Tetteh starts work as Director-General for UN office in Kenya Source: Instagram She later served as Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2013 to 2017 during President John Mahama's tenure. READ ALSO: Moesha Bodoung drops hot bedroom video and Ghanaians can't think far READ ALSO: Meet Ghanaian pilot Captain Quainoo who flew biggest plane in the world to Accra Ms. Tetteh is a practising lawyer who holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Ghana. She has also been a Member of Parliament for the Awutu-Senya West constituency in the Central Region. Meanwhile, YEN.com.gh has shared stunning photos of US First Lady Melania Trump's visit to the Ridge Hospital in Accra where she donated a phototherapy machine. Apart from the machine, Mrs Trump shared hampers and other gifts for mothers and babies at the Hospital's Child Welfare Clinic. READ ALSO: You're a failure - Shatta Wale taunts Kwaw Kese after buying bikes for 10 kids (Video) The visit formed part of the US First Lady's two-day tour of Ghana. Ghana News Today: Drivers angry over hike in Fuel price | Yen.com.gh: Share your views on this with us in the comments section below. Do you have a story to share with us? Inbox us on our Facebook/Instagram page and we could feature your story. To stay up to date with the latest news, download our news app on Google Play today Source: Yen.com.gh - An NDC member, Joseph Yamin, has cautioned the government about the state of security provided to Former President John Mahama at a funeral - According to him, it took the timely intervention of residents and four security men to prevent a bloody situation - He cautioned the government to take security issues seriously as lives are always as stake The Former Deputy Ashanti Regional Minister, Joseph Yamin, has revealed that Former President John Mahamas life was in danger during a recent funeral. According to a report by MyNewsGH.com, Yamin disclosed that the incident occurred during a funeral at Asawasi in the Asokore Mampong Municipal in the Ashanti Region. He stated that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) failed to ensure adequate security measures were in place for Mahama. Joseph Yamin Source: Supplied Source: Original READ ALSO: Prison officers are taking our wives - Prisoners This, he went on to say, resulted in confusion that could have turned bloody, but for the intervention of residents and four security men. Shedding light on the issue, he said that it is clear the NPP takes security issues for granted as Mahama was exposed to danger. Former Presidents Kufour, Mahama and President Nana Addo and Vice President Bawumia were supposed to attend the funeral, but the time Mahama arrived at the premises, there was no security man at the scene to protect the place. I went to find a place for him to sit, after he was left standing for about 30 minutes. The regional minister came there with less than 6 military men and without police escort. How can the NPP be so wicked? They knew that Former President Kufour, President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Bawumia will not attend, so they decided not to provide adequate security? he added. Yamin therefore advised the government to be proactive about security issues, to ensure that stability and enviable freedom being enjoyed by Ghanaians is not jeopardized. He added that the NPP government is taking security issues for granted, adding that the move may affect the peace the country is enjoying. READ ALSO: Photos of world's biggest plane as it lands in Accra Ghana News Today: President Akufo-Addo Narrowly Escapes Jet Crash | Yen.com.gh Want to be featured on YEN.com.gh? Send us a message on our Facebook page or on Instagram with your stories, photos or videos Source: Yen Newspaper Minister of State in charge of Tertiary Education, Prof. Kwesi Yankah, says he is not interested in any stakeholders meeting with John Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) concerning any review of the Free SHS programmme. In a statement, the veteran author said he is fully aligned with the direction of the Free SHS under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government and will therefore not be a part of any process to compromise the policy. Prof. Yankahs statement comes following comments by former president Mahama, who said the NDC will review the Free SHS policy and abolish the current shift (double track) system, reintroduce the more efficient three-terms per academic year programme, and bring back the emphasis on skills training, technical and vocational education to provide students with more options, as they go forward with their choices in diverse career and aptitude paths. READ ALSO: Zambia state-owned media publishes article in Chinese Mahama added that a National Stakeholders Conference will be organised to bring together headmasters, parents, teachers, educationists, labour, politicians, traditional leaders, religious groups, CSOs, students and others to further review and chart a sustainable course for the implementation of free education for our children and country. The ex-president is reported to have named Pro. Yankah as one of the stakeholders he will engage to review the Free SHS when the NDC returns to power in 020. But reacting to Mahamas comments, the Minister of State in charge of Tertiary Education said he is fully aligned with the current structure of the Free SHS and does not intend to be involved in any stockholders meeting that seeks to compromise the policy. Prof. Kwesi Yankah wishes to make it emphatically clear that as a Minister of State in charge of Tertiary Education, he has been an integral part of the development of the governments Free SHS policy and is fully aligned with its direction under the leadership of President Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, sections of the statement read. It added: In the very unlikely event of the NDC coming into office in January 2021, Prof. Yankah would therefore not be interested in being a part of any process that seeks to compromise the gains achieved by the Free SHS policy. He therefore wishes to advise Mr. Mahama to desist from drawing him into his campaign on education. READ ALSO: Zimbabwean pastor caught sleeping with married woman in a bush But in a latest development, it has emerged John Mahama was not referring the Prof. Yankah, the minister. But was referring to NDCs Professor Victor Yankah, who was present when the former president delivered his speech. This has led to some NDC communicators chiding Professor Kwesi Yankah for thinking he was the person, John Mahama referred to. Ghana News Today: President Akufo-Addo Narrowly Escapes Jet Crash | Yen.com.gh READ ALSO: Photos: World's biggest plane being flown by Captain Quainoo finally lands in Accra Share your views on this with us in the comments section below. Do you have a story to share with us? Inbox us on our Facebook/Instagram page and we could feature your story. Source: Yen - Melania Trump as part of her visit to Ghana has toured the Cape Coast castle, a former slave for - Cape Coast Castle is one of about forty "slave castles" built on the Gold Coast of West Africa (now Ghana) by European traders Melania Trump, the wife of US President, Donald Trump, has finally touched down in Ghana as part of her first tour of Africa. The US First Lady arrived in the country on Tuesday, and was met by a government delegation, led by Ghanas very own First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo. Mrs. Trump will be visiting three other African countries following her two-day official visit to Ghana. First Lady of the United States of America, Melania Trump Source: UGC READ ALSO: Don't use my name for your education campaign - Prof Yankah tells Mahama She offered to spend a historical moment with mothers and babies at the Greater Accra Regional (Ridge) Hospital. The US First Lady cuddled some babies at the hospital, before also donating a phototherapy machine, teddy bears and assorted baby items. Melania Trump in Ghana Source: UGC She also visited the Cape Coast castle, a former slave fort, on the second day of her solo trip to Ghana. Former US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama in 2009 on a visit to Ghana also visited the castle. Mrs Trump is in Ghana for a two-day visit. Source: UGC READ ALSO: Convert your church into factory to save economy - Duncan-Williams told A tour guide told Mrs Trump the story of the castle and how the slaves were treated and traded off. She called it very emotional and really something that people should see and experience. The U.S. first lady spent nearly an hour on a guided tour of the 17th-century castle, which originally was built by the Swedes for the trading of timber and gold but eventually became a warehouse for slaves shipped to the New World. I will never forget (the) incredible experience and the stories I heard. The dungeons that I saw, its really something that people should see and experience, she said after she was asked to reflect on the visit. More photos of Melania Trump s visit to Ghana Source: UGC Ghana News Today: President Akufo-Addo Narrowly Escapes Jet Crash | Yen.com.gh READ ALSO: Zimbabwean pastor caught sleeping with married woman in a bush Share your views on this with us in the comments section below. Do you have a story to share with us? Inbox us on our Facebook/Instagram page and we could feature your story. Source: Yen - Two other suspicious envelopes were addressed to senior security bosses - They were intercepted at a screen facility by Pentagon Force Protection Agency - Two people have since been hospitalised after they were exposed to them - The FBI intensified investigations to find source and motive of the envelopes The US security agencies on Monday, October 1, intercepted a suspicious envelope addressed to President Donald Trump. According to the authorities, two other letters addressed to senior security bosses were also intercepted at a mail screening facility. READ ALSO: More photos of Melania Trump s visit to Ghana Two other suspicious envelopes were addressed to senior security bosses. Photo: UGC Source: UGC READ ALSO: Prisons officers taking our wives; well strike soon Prisoners In a statement, US Secret Service, however, indicated the envelope believed to be containing poisonous substance did not enter the White House. "The Secret Service can confirm receipt of a suspicious envelope addressed to the president on Monday, October 1. The envelope was not received at the White House, nor did it ever enter the White House. As a matter of practice, the Secret Service does not comment regarding matters of Protective Intelligence. " However, in this instance, we can confirm that we are working jointly with our law enforcement partners to fully investigate this matter. Further, all threats directed towards the president, or any Secret Service protectee, are treated seriously and fully investigated," the statement read. READ ALSO: NPP lacks knowledge about security issues - Joseph Yamin One of the envelopes was addressed to Defense Secretary James Mattis and was sent to the FBI for analysis. The other envelope was addressed to Chief of Naval Operations John Richardson. A statement by Houston Fire Department on Tuesday, October 2, however, indicated two people who came in to contact with the suspicious substance were hospitalised. The building where the two were working in has since been quarantined as detectives further investigations in to the development. The chemical substance is suspected to be ricin which if consumed, results in nausea, vomiting and internal bleeding of the stomach and intestines, followed by failure of the liver, spleen and kidneys, and death by collapse of the circulatory system. Ghana News Today: President Akufo-Addo Narrowly Escapes Jet Crash | Yen.com.gh Your stories and photos are always welcome. Send us a message via YEN's official Facebook page. Source: Yen Ghanaian actress and entrepreneur, Fella Makafui seems to be very happy in her love life and intends to soon get married. About three weeks ago YEN.com.gh reported on a post by Fella Makafui in which she appeared to be announcing her wedding. Sharing a nice photo of herself on Instagram, Fella wrote stated that she was ready to take the last name of someone who had stolen her heart, a popular phrase used to describe marriage in recent times. According to Fella, she believes taking the persons last name is the best revenge she could have on him stealing her heart. READ ALSO: Top pastor caught 'chopping' married church member in a bush (Video) He stole my heart so I am planning a revenge... I am going to take his last name... .. she captioned. Well, it seems Fella really meant what she has given more hints of a possible wedding very soon. READ ALSO: Moesha Boduong breaks the internet with wild bedroom video of her in swimwear Answering questions in an interactive session she had with her fans on Instagram, the actress revealed that she was engaged and even pregnant. A fan with username @createdman1 asked: Are you engaged or married? Fella Makafui answered saying she was engaged. READ ALSO: Hannah Tetteh starts work as UN boss in Kenya and her daughter can't keep calm (Photos) Earlier she had told another fan who asked about her tummy growing big that she was 'pregnant'. Fella Makafui's answers in red ovals Source: Instagram While the claim of pregnancy from Fella could be described as a joke considering the emoji accompanying the answer, that of her being in a serious relationship is not in doubt. READ ALSO: Beautiful photos drop as world's biggest plane flown by Ghanaian lands in Accra It does go a long way to confirm our earlier report that Fella may be planning to wed soon. Meanwhile, another popular Instagram personality and actress, Shuga Titi has been spotted in a video stripping naked in front of two men. The video which has caused a stir on social media is said to be an excerpt from a yet-to-be-released Kumawood movie. Some have condemned and called for the movie which also features Lil Win and Kwaku Manu to be banned. READ ALSO: Prisoners accuse officers of snatching their wives; threaten to strike back Ghana News Today: President Akufo-Addo Narrowly Escapes Jet Crash: READ ALSO: Captain of the world's biggest plane announced take-off in Twi as he headed for Accra (Video) Share your views on this with us in the comments section below. Do you have a story to share with us? Inbox us on our Facebook/Instagram page and we could feature your story. To stay up to date with the latest news, download our news app on Google Play today Source: Yen Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 'Transition' Without Parental Consent HAVERTOWN, Penn., Oct. 2, 2018 / HAVERTOWN, Penn., Oct. 2, 2018 / Christian Newswire / -- The school district of Haverford Township has a harmful policy that permits school staff to facilitate so-called "transition plans" for gender-confused students using taxpayer funds and without parental consent. Policy 259 was adopted by the Haverford Township School Board in 2017 and, as addressed in Liberty Counsel's letter to the school board, has violated the law. Policy 259 and its administrative regulation permit school staff to create a social and medical "transition" plan for students who are gender-confused and want hormone drug injections and "gender reassignment" surgery. This policy permits the school to coordinate with health care providers and licensed professionals, seek Medicaid funding, and file "health insurance claims," all without informing parents until it is too late to reverse. School personnel are generally forbidden from disclosing information about a minor's asserted "gender identity" to the student's own parents/guardians, without the consent of the child. Policy 259 also permits gender-confused students to force other students into opposite-sex rooming arrangements on overnight trips, without notice to or consent by other students or their parents. It also allows gender-confused students to use the restrooms, locker rooms, and showers of their choice. Students, teachers, and employees are also forced to adopt the beliefs of others about sex and gender, and to speak using only gender pronouns consistent with other people's beliefs, instead of objective reality. "A school nurse cannot administer aspirin to a student without parental consent, nor can a student go on a field trip without parental permission, but the Haverford School District will give harmful drugs to minors without parental knowledge or consent," said Mat Staver, Founder and Chairman of Liberty Counsel. "Parents send their children to school expecting them to get an appropriate education, not to secretly take harmful drugs and mutilate their bodies. The school board must rescind this policy immediately," said Staver. Liberty Counsel is an international nonprofit, litigation, education, and policy organization dedicated to advancing religious freedom, the sanctity of life, and the family since 1989, by providing pro bono assistance and representation on these and related topics. Liberty Counsel provides broadcast quality TV interviews via Hi-Def Skype and LTN at no cost. There is a long history of organizations that have nothing to do with the Catholic Church which nonetheless persist in sticking their noses into its internal affairs. In the last century, the Communist party in the United States sought to infiltrate the Church with apostate homosexual priests. In more recent times, wealthy left-wing activists and foundations have attempted to derail the Church by promoting propaganda campaigns against Church teachings, typically centered on sexuality issues. For instance, the pro-abortion movement was launched by Catholic Church-hating activists who sought to destroy its moral authority. The most recent manifestation of this invidious effort comes from a constellation of forces called Equal Future. It has taken direct aim at the Synod of Bishops on Young People, the Faith and the Discernment of Vocations, which is meeting in Rome, October 3-28. According to the director of Equal Future, Tiernan Brady, the purpose of his outfit is "to highlight the damage being done to children and young people" by Church teachings. Brady, who directed the referenda campaigns on gay marriage in Australia and Ireland, is using this opportunity to pressure the Church to change its teachings on sexuality. Equal Future consists of many lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) groups. The estimates range from 29 to more than 100 such entities. It includes some of the most prominent LGBT organizations, such as the Human Rights Campaign and the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD). More important, it is comprised of gay groups which claim to be Catholic: New Ways Ministry, DignityUSA, and We Are Church are among the best known. They are all dissident groups in rebellion against the Catholic Church, and have practically zero support among Catholics. They wouldn't exist were it not for funding from anti-Catholic organizations such as the Arcus Foundation, an institution that works closely with atheist billionaire and Church hater, George Soros. In the last ten years, DignityUSA has received well over $700,000 from the Arcus Foundation. Last year, it gave New Ways Ministry a grant of $35,000 "to connect the work of pro-LGBT Catholic organizations in every region of the world." In 2009, it gave them almost $100,000. It also funds the Women's Alliance for Theology Ethics and Ritual (WATER). Arcus gave it a boatload of cash to "create a cadre of Catholic, lesbian, bisexual and transgender women and their allies that would assume a leadership role within the Catholic community." Earlier in this decade it gave WATER $70,000. Naturally, Arcus provides grants to Catholics for Choice, the pro-abortion and anti-Catholic entity that receives the bulk of its money from the Ford Foundation. Arcus has made inroads in Catholic universities as well. It receives its most cooperation from Jesuit institutions such as Fordham University and Fairfield University. For example, Arcus funded a conference series, "More Than a Monologue," that deliberately promoted dissident voices seeking to undermine Catholic teachings on sexuality. Pledges to area bishops that they would not do so were not honored. According to a report by the Cardinal Newman Society, this conference sponsored several speakers who questioned Catholic teaching on homosexuality. They argued that the Vatican's "official repression" of gay priests needs to end, and that "the Catholic Church would be much better off if all its priests were having sex with each other." To top things off, they "disputed the necessity of priests for consecration of the Eucharist at Catholic Mass." The idea that gay priests are repressed is nonsense. Just the opposite is true: Gay-active seminarians and priests have driven more heterosexual men out of the seminaries and the priesthood than anyone can fathom. Moreover, it is diabolical to assert that priests would be better off if they practiced sodomy with each other. Even more pernicious is the assault on the Eucharist. That is what these activists wanta total annihilation of the Catholic Church. It was not always this way. When Dr. Bernard Nathanson, the famed abortionist who co-founded the National Abortion Rights Action League (NARAL), started his effort to legalize abortion in 1969, he devised a plan to attack the Catholic Church. Why? He had to. The Church, he readily conceded, was the greatest defender of life. This meant that his pro-abortion agenda could not be realized without discrediting its voice. Nathanson quickly embarked on a lengthy propaganda campaign that was riddled with lies about Catholicism. We know this to be true because of his conversion: after witnessing pictures of unborn babiesthe sonogram had just been inventedhe became pro-life. Then he converted to Catholicism. The key point is this: even in his most radical days, Nathanson never sought to assault the Church's sacraments. That's what we are faced with today. It is just that vicious. There is no justification for any outside organization seeking to subvert the teachings and practices of any world religion. That some of these busy-bodies are tax-exempt foundations, which purport to serve the common good, makes it all the more perverse. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form We attempted to send a notification to your email address but we were unable to verify that you provided a valid email address. Please click here to update your email address if you wish to receive notifications. Otherwise, you may click here to disable notifications and hide this message. Termen Extins: Terre des hommes Moldova este in cautarea unui /unei consultant/e sau a unei echipe de consultanti, care va elabora un program de instruire pentru adolescenti (14 - 18 ani) in domeniul dezvoltarii competentei digitale Unfortunately, our website is currently unavailable in your country. We are engaged on the issue and committed to looking at options that support our full range of digital offerings to your market. We continue to identify technical compliance solutions that will provide all readers with our award-winning journalism. SINGAPORE REUTERS Oct 2 2018- Southeast Asian Foreign Ministers urged Myanmar to give a commission of inquiry into the violence in Rakhine state full mandate to hold those who are responsible accountable, Singapore said on Tuesday. The ministers, who met informally on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly last week, expressed grave concern over the violence, Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan told parliament, calling it man-made humanitarian disaster. Over the last year, more than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled Buddhist-majority Myanmar to neighbouring Bangladesh, according to U.N. agencies, following a military response to attacks on security posts by Rohingya insurgents. U.N. investigators issued a report in late August accusing Myanmars military of gang rapes and mass killings with genocidal intent in Rakhine and called for the countrys commander-in-chief and five generals to be prosecuted under international law. Myanmar has denied most of the allegations in the report, blaming Rohingya terrorists for most accounts of atrocities. We expressed our grave concern with these alleged acts of violence... This is a man-made humanitarian disaster and something which should not be happening in this day and age, Balakrishnan said, referring to the meeting of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which includes Myanmar. kadda is a corruption of kaduwa and it is derived from the saying kadden kotanawa (using language as a sword to brush away people) In a speech titled Can the Subaltern Speak English? delivered at the International Centre for Ethnic Studies in Kandy on August 9, Dhanuka Bandara takes to task those he sees as academic messiahs who write about emancipating the marginalised Other who cannot wield English as the privileged can. For Dhanuka, such messianism is a cover for crass careerism, a path to de-hegemonisation of language standards that promotes traditional intellectuals (reactionary appendages of dominant minorities) over organic intellectuals (at the forefront of social change). Such careerists can only speak of the marginalised Other (the native non-English speaker) in terms they can relate to, based overwhelmingly on Western scholarship. Over the course of his speech Dhanuka refers to, among others, Arjuna Parakrama, Godfrey Gunatilleke, and the late Manique Gunasekara, and contends that the work of these three intellectuals revolves around one pressing question: how does one deliver an English education to a country to which English has always been at best an alien experience, and if so, how can one deliver it via an authentic Lankan experience? Parakrama condemns the inability of English educationalists to relate what is taught to the society around them (because of texts which overwhelmingly relate foreign items, from fruits to films), an issue that is supplemented by an even bigger one: the current paradigm that Lankan history is the triumphal march of Buddhism. In other words, according to Parakrama, not only is the rural student unaware of what is taught in English textbooks, he is made to grapple with another tier of exclusion: the Sinhala Buddhist hegemony that holds sway over our education system. Dhanukas issue with this line of thinking is that, at one level, it is a promotion of a way of teaching English that limits the rural childs way of seeing. Which is true, I should think. Much of the discourse surrounding English Our Way (which Malinda Seneviratne tore to pieces years ago), after all, is rooted in the assumption that we should all speak English the way we and our countrymen want, free of grammatical and syntactical constraints. This culture of linguistic licentiousness has, at the end of the day, the effect of promoting a rift between those who speak and those who spik, between those who can wield the language and those who can barely put two words together. Dhanukas speech in that sense sheds light on another aspect of this debate: are those who idolise Sri Lankan English, as Orwell once put it, saints who should be judged guilty until they are proven innocent? Dhanuka himself an eloquent writer of English that he is, he came from a Sinhala speaking background, didnt go to a popular or private school, In my experience so far, limited though it is, English education is not a problem prefixed by social class and background. At a basic level, there are poor children, coming from rural backgrounds, who can speak the language better than their more privileged counterparts from the city. It is also not a problem of experience, which means that the debate over whether our textbooks should limit the items and other things (again, from fruits to films) to what is local is actually a nonentity. Dhanuka himself is a case in point: eloquent writer of English that he is, he came from a Sinhala speaking background, didnt go to a popular or private school, and learnt the language on his own. But then, as he points out, he first experienced snow two years ago and learnt by rote Robert Frosts Stopping by the Woods on a Snowy Evening in Grade Eleven, and yet [did] not recall any particular difficulty relating to it. I myself can think of several encounters Ive had with students who, while alienated from foreign experiences, nevertheless relate to them quite instinctively. (Just get them to watch an American thriller film and youll see how they react.) Neither social class nor inability to relate to foreign experiences, factors though they may be, seems then to have much of a say in determining why one class grows up ignorant of English and another grows up wielding it as though it were the most natural thing. The issue of class, in the context of English education, has been examined from every angle by scholars like Parakrama and Gunasekara. Parakramas didactic assessments of this problem (read his essay Naduth Unge Baduth Unge: Some Thoughts on the Language of Privilege and the Privileges of Language, which Dhanuka refers to in his speech) can be simplified to an observation Doric de Souza once made: that the items exhibited in English textbooks are outside the frame of reference of the typical Sri Lankan child. Parakrama offers a more academic take on this: There is no room for the radical alterity of these who are not caught within the nexus of power/access to power/the possibility of access to power in the future. For those outside the pale, as it were, the logic of resistance and protest as we understand it does not clinch. For this group for whom the trendy term would be subaltern, other paradigms of resistance and protest need to be conceptualized, since, to echo Ranajith Guha, there is dominance without hegemony. In other words, the subaltern, who happen to be the majority, are denied the very tools of resistance which a proper English education should equip them with. English in this sense can be both a kaduwa (oppressive) and a hiramanaya (utilitarian), and in the right hands, it can turn from the one to the other. The reductionism of this Elite/Other dichotomy is felt in every debate, but nowhere else has it been felt more than in the debate over English education. What it does, as Dhanuka and other scholars opposed to the tenets of Sri Lankan English have argued, is to presume the ignorance of the rural child and the eliteness of the urban child, and the God given right of academics to safeguard the innocence of the rural child by (inadvertently) preserving the rift between him and his urban counterpart, when the reality can and should be quite different. Or as Dhanuka puts it: ... the assumption is that so called subalterns remain as empty vessels, they do not have the language to curse, are bereft of means of resistance, unless they receive their liberation as a benevolent gift from those who oppress them. Given that I certainly am not up to the task of examining this issue from an academic standpoint, a few heretical thoughts on the way English is viewed by the typical child, and the gradation in perceptions, prejudices, and perspectives regarding the subject of English between the rural and the urban child, are, I feel, called for. The typical Sinhala speaking student (I unfortunately have not had encounters with Tamil speaking students, yet) has a name for English in their dictionary: kadda. It is a corruption of kaduwa and it is derived from the saying kadden kotanawa (using language as a sword to brush away people). Interestingly enough, perhaps owing to the culture of complacency regarding the teaching of the language weve institutionalised over the decades, kadda is not a term of disparagement or fear. On the contrary, it is used whimsically, not to ridicule the non speaker of English, but to refer to and ridicule the speaker. (Whenever I pick up the phone and speak in front of them, I hear their giggles as they try to imitate me and poke fun at the mistakes they make.) The young non English speaker no longer regrets his lack of English education; he laughs at it and that by consciously laughing at the errors he commits. Be it Royal College or Kekirawa Central, this process plays out in almost exactly the same way. This presents us with rather interesting cultural phenomena, the way I see it: the ability of the non English speaking child to compensate for his failure to wield the language by resorting to a colloquialism with obvious colonial overtones (kaduwa as a term of disparagement of English traces its roots to postcolonial Ceylonese society) while being indifferent to or ignorant of those same overtones. In other words, the Sinhala speaking child views English through a dualistic lens: he realises its importance in a society that prioritises spoken over written English (most of the students I interviewed wanted to speak and pronounce, not to read and write), but he no longer views it as the step up the social ladder it used to be before. Ironically, globalisation, which has advertised elocution in our society (which belong to the outer circle of Braj Kachrus World Englishes model), is to blame for that: it has made it possible for the non English speaker to let go of the language, since he seeks other ways of climbing that ladder: through material things that are marketed day in and day out, rather than through ideas. Dhanukas speech thus stands out because the Elite/Other dichotomy no longer holds water, since English is no longer the dominant hegemony it used to be. 50 years ago, the English speaker was privileged. He still is today, but the structures of poverty in our society have emboldened the non English speaker to ignore his ignorance and yet enjoy the good life. As a final point, we can therefore say that the non English speaker, regardless of whether he attends Royal College or Kekirawa Central, has succeeded in compensating for his weakness in the language via casual, illusory self-mockery. This, for me, is the real tragedy we should be looking at. UDAKDEV1@GMAIL.COM To have known a human being that was so content with his existence, a life lived to the full, which was shared with all who encountered him with warm smile that it left them filled with love, is truly a blessing. Fr. Egerton Perera, whom I encountered first as the chaplain at the University of Peradeniya in 2002, and later became my dear friend was such a rare person. I cannot recall a single time that I didnt have a smile after meeting him. I think most of us who were members of the Newman Society at the University of Peradeniya during the 18 years that he was Chaplain will attest to this. Fr. Egerton had three great loves in his life. His love for our Lord Jesus Christ was number one, his love for the University of Peradeniya and the Newman Society and his unmistakble love for people. Whenever I met him, he would share these three loves with me through sharing of his experiences. As a Catholic and a Jesuit priest he had seen and tasted the Lord. He used to tell me that he starts preparing for his Sunday homily the Monday before. His homilies were always refreshing and unconventional. They opened our eyes to a different dimension or a different view point. One of his famous explanations were of sin. He would say sin is God is telling me to go this way, but I take another way. Simple and clear. This is one of the reasons that I did not return home from the University during the weekends and remained to attend the mass at the Chaplaincy. Being a retreat director in the Ignatian tradition and a well-read person Fr. Egerton incorporated ideas from the works of St. Ignatius Loyola, Cardinial Henry Newman, Anthony de Mello, Thomas Merton, Henri Nouwen and Rabindranath Tagore in his homilies and discussions. He encouraged us to read beyond our subject specialities. He used to tease the dental students saying Ubala dath 32 vitharak igena gena hariyanne ne. He used to receive magazines such as Time and National Geographic, and he would ask me to read certain articles that were interesting. He would share whatever knowledge he gained from these and other sources with us and it encouraged me to take on a habit of reading. Sin is God is telling me to go this way, but I take another way. Simple and clear. This is one of the reasons that I did not return home from the University during the weekends and remained to attend the mass at the Chaplaincy Through Father and the Alumni of the Newman Society we were exposed to the history of the University of Peradeniya. Fr. Egerton being a graduate of Peradeniya himself was absolutely in love with the campus and the environment. He would watch the birds, take walks through the campus and pray on the Akbar Bridge while the Mahaweli flowed peacefully. This love was so contagious that I too ended up having a deep love for the University. I learned to appreciate the blessing that I received of being a scholar at this prestigious and uniquely beautiful University through him. Being a qualified counsellor, Chartered Accountant, an Economics graduate and a Jesuit priest himself, Fr. Egerton always encouraged us to excel in our chosen fields. He would say If you are a physicist you should be an expert in physics, no less. Being an expert in the English language he would help us with our writing and speaking. He was very concerned on the quality of education that we received and always encouraged us to have an integral formation through taking part in exposure programmes, national workshops, sports, and other extra curricular activities. Such activities were part and parcel of the Newman society calendar during his tenure as Chaplain. As the Catholic Chaplain he worked tirelessly to keep the legacy of Fr. Pinto the founder of the Newman Society alive. He made sure we knew the history of this great University and the Newman Society through incorporating articles to the annual publication of the Newman Society, the Horizon. As a priest I should know my flock. This was Fr. Egertons principle wherever he served. While the president of the Newman society I accompanied him when he visited students at their residence halls. He would inquire about the students welfare, their families and any hardships they had. He would say that he felt and looked younger by being with us. Every Sunday after mass he would host us for tea. He would share what ever he had. We were often treated with a home-made Saruwath drink which was one of his favourites. He knew that young University students we were always in haamathe. So he would invite us for a meal cooked by him whenever possible. We were fortunate to have had many of his favourite dishes such as the pol-kiri baduma. A fund dedicated to the memory of Fr. Pinto was founded by Fr. Egerton to assist students with financial need. Through this fund he helped many Catholic and non-Catholic University students islandwide during their period of study at the University. Every year during the Christmas holidays Fr. Egerton would visit students at their homes, be they in Jaffna or Matara. I had the opportunity accompany him during some of these visits and every home we visited offered Christmas treats of which he took very little since he would visit so many homes. These visits gave father the insight into the families of the students and this enabled him to assist them at their time in the University. He would have all the contact numbers of the families with him so that in an emergency he could directly contact them. Fr. Egerton was also a qualified counsellor. He completed his Masters in Counselling at Loyala University in Chicago. Through his intervention many students in the campus were assisted in their personal challenges. He imparted his counselling traits in helping with our personal relationships and always knew exactly what to do or say to ease a situation. He would always advise us to listen and accompany the other person. Before undertaking the role of the Chaplain at the University, Fr. Egerton served as Parish Priest in a simple and poor farming village named Blackpool near Nuwara Eliya. He loved the people there and would share his experiences with them with us, the students of the Newman society. During his time at the University he organized several exposure programmes to Blackpool. In one of these programmes I got to experience the simplicity and honesty of the people in this village and Fr. Egertons love for people. He was very concerned on the quality of education that we received and always encouraged us to have an integral formation through taking part in exposure programmes, national workshops and sports Most of his flock at Peradeniya considered Fr. Egerton to be their second father. To most of us including me he tied the knot at our weddings. A few of us including me were fortunate to do a one day retreat with him just before our wedding. Eventually when we had kids he was one of the first to know and he would tell everyone that he had another grandson or a granddaughter. I remember I put him up in the wee hours of the morning when my son was born to tell him the news. He was a mentor to us even in our marriage life giving tips in parenting and making priorities. He of course never approved single kid families and would slowly put the idea to have another kid, which most of us ended up having and he would boast this to be the result of his coaxing. As an expert writer Fr. Egerton wrote many articles on Human values, University education, University students etc. Over 50 articles were published in the Daily Mirror which were also compiled in to Two books. One titled The marvel of being human and the other Challenges and rewards of being human. These give an inside view to his immense love of Humanity. As Father departs this wonderful human existence he leaves behind the warmth and love that he shared and the countless memories he made which would keep alive his memory in us. As always in his last days he shared his passion for the Lord and for his people. He was impatient to join the Lord while I cringed at the idea of losing him. Through his life he challenges us to appreciate this gift of the Human life, to share it and encourage others to be more human as he exemplified. I sincerely hope as his dear sons and daughters that we will make him proud. At yesterday's Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is known to have stressed the need for the government to take a policy decision on the conduct of the provincial council elections. Political party representatives met last week to discuss this matter. The political parties, other than the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), agreeing to conduct the elections under the previous proportional representation system. The SLFP insisted that the elections should be conducted under the new system -- a mix of the proportional representation system and the first-past-the post system. The Prime Minister informed the Cabinet about the stance of the party leaders and pointed out that parliamentary approval was necessary to conduct elections under either of the electoral systems. (Kelum Bandara) Tuesday, October 2 marked the United Nations International Day of Non-Violence. It is the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence or Satyagraha. In a message UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres says Mahatma Gandhi proved that non-violence could change history. Let us be inspired by his courage and conviction as we continue our work to advance peace, sustainable development and human rights for all of people of the world, he adds. The UN says that according to a General Assembly Resolution passed on June 15, 2007, the International Day is an occasion to disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness. The resolution reaffirms the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence and the desire to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence. Introducing the resolution in the General Assembly on behalf of 140 co-sponsors, Indias External Affairs Deputy Minister Anand Sharma said that the wide and diverse sponsorship of the resolution was a reflection of the universal respect for Mahatma Gandhi and of the enduring relevance of his philosophy. Quoting the late leaders own words, he said: non-violence is the greatest force at the disposal of the people. It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction. That means non-violence is mightier than thousands of nuclear weapons possessed by nine countries including Mahathma Gandhis own country India and its neighbour Pakistan. Reports say the United States and Russia have nuclear weapons which are thousands of times more powerful than the atom bombs that were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.Those weapons were intended to end the war and indeed they did. But ending the war and restoring peace are two different issues. Restoring peace requires non-violence, poverty alleviation through a more equitable distribution of wealth and resources and full-scale participation in the battle against global warming or climate change. After Mahatma Gandhi the world saw only two figures who rose to that height of noble leadership. They were Martin Luther King junior and South Africas legendary Nelson Mandela. Unfortunately in the new millennium we see hardly anyone of that stature in the political field but instead we saw the United States producing a leader like Donald Trump who is known to be impulsive, dangerously unpredictable and inconsistent in a manner that has left the democratic free world without leadership. In Sri Lanka we have all four major religions, Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. All those religious leaders have stressed that violence does not cease by violence but by dialogue and love just as hatred does not cease by hatred but by love and goodwill. Despite this we have gone through a devastating 26-year civil war, racial riots in 1958, 1977 and 1983 along with youth insurrections in 1971 and in 1987-89. Hundreds of thousands of people were killed or injured in these violent conflicts while millions were displaced or left to languish in varying degrees of degradation, deprivation and destitution. What happens to all these religious teachings, where did we go wrong and who was responsible? Even today, though in 2015 the coalition Government pledged to bring about reconciliation and a lasting peace through justice and an all-inclusive society, we see certain sections trying to whip up religious or racial tension. We hope the life-changing and world-changing Gandhi Jayanthi message will become part of the policy of all main parties and their leadership though on both sides mindless extremists may try to create trouble. It would be a wise move to include Mahatma Gandhis message in the curriculum of higher grades in schools and in universities so that the youth or the future generations would become aware and act on the power of non-violence. As the UN says the principle of non-violence also known as non-violent resistance rejects the use of physical violence to achieve social or political change. Often described as the politics of ordinary people, this form of non-violent social struggle has been adopted by mass populations all over the world in campaigns for social justice. The word brings to mind guns and barricades, soldiers and war (in the immediate past, lived through or imminent). Thats natural in a land where several generations have had guns and bombs in-their-faces, literally and figuratively. Natural also in a world that has become small courtesy of communication technology and therefore has war delivered to the palm, so to speak, or obtained with a swipe. It is not surprising that national security has mostly been associated with the protection of the state or rather the incumbent government, even though it is frequently tagged with the people and the nation. Is security about these things alone, though? The word comes from the Latin Securus meaning free from care and evolved through the Latin word Securita and the Old French Securite to Secure in English and Security in late Middle English, so the dictionaries tell us. Essentially it refers to a state of being secure and free of worry. Now this is not just about protecting territory, national assets and citizens from armed subversion from within or without. It is about obtaining and protecting a decent, worry-free, healthy, wholesome lifestyle for all citizens. Like most key words in matters of the state, security can and should be all-encompassing (like environment or economy for instance). It offers a window that opens us to all sectors: education, health, nutrition, environment, sustainability and basic freedoms even as it speaks to national boundaries and resources or the general safety of people and property. National security is nothing if people have to second guess themselves before expressing opinions, nothing if people cannot live the lifestyles that give them meaning, nothing if laws and regulations can be bent by the powerful, nothing if institutions encourage wrongdoing and systems offer refuge to wrongdoers There are questions that those who write manifestos and/or those who want power need to address: What is security? Are we secure? If we are not, how do we go about obtaining national security? If we were to take a comprehensive view of things, as we should, then we would have to conclude that insecurity is sadly a constant; well, at least into the foreseeable future. There are imponderables (e.g. the price of oil, the maverick and destructive nature of US foreign policy and military prerogatives, trade wars and a development model that pays lip service and nothing more to the health of the planet). Sri Lanka is a prisoner of agreements that contravene national interest but were signed under duress or out of ignorance or servility. We swallowed the development lie, compromised food security, sneered at technologies that were developed over centuries, placed trust on crooks, brigands, murderers, colonial slaves and such to run our affairs, and played a key part in the sustained development of impoverishment on all fronts. Through it all, we have collectively refused to recognize the greatest insecurity of them all: that which is resident in our minds and prevents us from recognizing resources and potentials while persuading us to allow others to imprint in our consciousness their versions of our realities. Security is not only about the right now and certainly not about protecting the lifestyles and positions of privilege of the few. It is not about safeguarding systems made to rob, cheat, hoodwink, insult, humiliate and impoverish people. A war situation understandably pushes a lot of these issues to the back-burner, but even in such situations these cannot be forgotten. Perhaps the tragedy has been that even when war was not a problem, these matters were not considered important. 25 years go, the then US Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Teresita C. Schaffer ominously stated, your (Sri Lankas) food security lies in the wheat fields of North America. Sure, if we had the bucks and if we had options should wheat prices go through the ceiling; what USAID, which was essentially writing the countrys agricultural policy at the time, advocated was to grow gherkin and baby corn instead of rice. Schaffer, tellingly, is described as an expert on economic, political, security, and risk management trends in South Asia and now serves as a senior adviser to McLarty Associates, a Washington-based international strategic advisory firm. Thats the USA doing whats in her interest. The tragedy is that weve been happy to just tag along, not just in the agriculture sector but the overall paradigm of development which is essentially a recipe for continued underdevelopment and maldevelopment. National security is about intelligence (yes, more than than military hardware). National security means nothing if food security is ignored or compromised. National security is nothing if theres no security against climate change. National security is a failure if the dignity and self-respect of all citizens is not assured National security is about intelligence (yes, more than than military hardware). National security means nothing if food security is ignored or compromised. National security is nothing if theres no security against climate change. National security is a failure if the dignity and self-respect of all citizens is not assured. National security is nothing if people have to second guess themselves before expressing opinions, nothing if people cannot live the lifestyles that give them meaning, nothing if laws and regulations can be bent by the powerful, nothing if institutions encourage wrongdoing and systems offer refuge to wrongdoers. National security, most importantly, is bound to be a grotesque proposition if theres no discussion and agreement on what nation really means. Over to you, M/s. Nagananda Kodituwakku, Rohan Pallewatte, Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, Patali Champika Ranawaka, Ranil Wickremesinghe, Maithripala Sirisena and any other individual entertaining hopes of becoming the next President of Sri Lanka. Malinda Seneviratne is a political analyst and writer and could be contacted on malindasenevi@gmail.com. www.malindawords. blogspot.com The Criminal Investigation Department had commenced recording statements in connection with the New York Times report which alleged that a Chinese company had funded the campaign of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa in January 2015. Following the New York Times article, the National Movement of Web Journalists had lodge a complaint with the Police Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) on June 29 requesting conduct and inquiry into the allegation. The investigation into the complaint was then handed over to the CID. Accordingly, the CID had summoned the Chairman of the National Movement of Web Journalists to record a statement over the complaint this morning. The New York Times reported that at least US$7.6 million was dispensed from China Harbours account at Standard Chartered Bank to affiliates of Mr. Rajapaksas campaign. The article published by Maria Abi-Habib of The New York Times said though Chinese officials and analysts had insisted that Chinas interest in the Hambantota Port was purely commercial, Sri Lankan officials said from the start, the intelligence and strategic possibilities of the ports location were part of the negotiations.(Darshana Sanjeewa) SEOUL AFP Oct2, 2018-North Korea on Tuesday ruled out dismantling its nuclear arsenal in exchange for the US declaring an end to the Korean War, saying a peace treaty should never be a bargaining chip. The North has for decades demanded that the US formally declare the end of the 1950-53 conflict that was halted only with an armistice, saying an official end to the war would ease tensions on the flash-point peninsula. At a summit with the Souths President Moon Jae-in last month, the Norths leader Kim Jong Un offered to shut down its main Yongbyon nuclear complex if Washington takes corresponding measures. Kim did not elaborate on what those measure might be, but state news agency KCNA said in a commentary that some US experts have suggested trading the end of the war for denuclearisation. It flatly described that as only the most basic... process to restore ties, not a point for negotiation. The end of war... is not just a gift from a man to another at all. Furthermore, it can never be a bargaining chip for getting the DPRK denuclearised, it said, using the Norths full name. President Maithripala Sirisena will be arriving in Seychelles next week (8th to 10th October) on his first state visit, the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Seychelles said in a statement. It further said the President will be accompanied by his wife and a high level delegation. He will arrive in Seychelles on an invitation extended to him by President Danny Faure in March last year, during President Faures working visit to Sri Lanka. President Sirisena and President Faure are expected to have bilateral discussions on various areas of cooperation between the two countries. The talks are expected to concentrate on health, education, tourism, environment, fisheries, maritime security and the Indian Ocean Commission amongst others. Tomorrow marks exactly 30 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries and this visit is likely to pave the way to further cooperation between the two Indian Ocean neighbours. Seychelles and Sri Lanka established diplomatic relations on October 3, 1988. Amid mounting criticism of the police, President Maithripala Sirisena is reported to have berated Police Chief Pujith Jayasundara at yesterdays Cabinet meeting even calling his behaviour unbecoming of his post. It has come in the wake of Higher Education Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe reportedly raising concern with regard to the increasing number of crimes in the country. However, Law and Order Minister Ranjith Madduma Bandara had pointed out that according to available statistices the crime rate had dropped though the media was claiming otherwise. The President had intervened saying whatever anyone might say, the Police Service had deteriorated in terms of its performance and highlighted the fact that the entire police service including the Police Chief should be reformed without delay. He said he and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had been embarrassed by the Police Chief's actions. The President levelled these allegations against the Police Chief at a time when investigations were in progress regarding an alleged plot to assassinate him and former defence secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa. (Kelum Bandara) When the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) declared in Parliament on May 19, 2009 that the civil war in the country was over, there was silence among the Northern people. An independent observer of the war could easily distinguish between peace and silence at that time. Peace is present when one knows that there is cooperation for coexistence. In a peaceful environment one party to a conflict can put aside the weapon and sleep at night knowing that the enemy would never pull the trigger in his gun. True peace exists when two parties come to an understanding to cease all hostilities. The scenario is quite different when one party crushes the other and claims to have ushered in peace. The LTTE was wiped out after an almost three-decade war. The Tamil community in the island wouldnt want another war. But whether enough has been done by the Government through a much publicised rehabilitation process remainsa question. The Government claimed recently that out of 12191 ex-LTTE cadres who were rehabilitated only one remains to be released. Some work has been done during this rehabilitation process. The late LTTE cadre Thamilni Jeyakkumaran in her book titled Thiyunu Asipathaka Sevana Yata recalls how ex-tiger rebels were taught life skills at Government maintained rehab centres. The Government recently claimed that ex-rebel cadres had been provided with self-employment opportunities, fishing gear and educational requisites. The Government claims to have spent Rs 26 million in initiating this programme. Rehabilitation is two-pronged. One aspect of rehab is to add value to the lives that have been disrupted. Teaching them life skills and providing them with opportunities to try out these skills solves only part of the problem. But what about the mental wounds which the Tamil people still suffer from? True peace exists when two parties come to an understanding to cease all hostilities. The scenario is quite different when one party crushes the other and claims to have ushered in peace Thileepan To cure these mental wounds of the Tamil community one must understand the psyche of this community. Commemorational ceremonies for the dead are part and parcel of the Tamil community. This culture was present even during the times when the LTTE was in control of most parts of the north. In this context we are made to think that a wise decision was taken by the Government authorities because the recent commemorational ceremony of the late LTTE cadre Thileepan-AKA as Rassiah Pradeepan-was not disrupted. His friends and relations were allowed to participate in the ceremony during which a photograph was placed next to a monument built in Thileepans name. The GoSL doesnt allow slain LTTE cadres to be commemorated. But the knowledge of there being no threat of Tamils returning to an arms struggle against the regime has given rise to a school of thought to give members of this minority community the liberty to commemorate their dead. This is regardless whether the deceased were rebels. Arent family members of slain criminals and murderers allowed to commemorate their dead? Commemorating the dead should be viewed from the perspective that all are human beings. This writer remembers reading somewhere that on a prison cell wall in Sri Lanka were written the following words; My mother knows who I am. We have lost so much as a result of the war which was inevitable. But we mustnt lose the human touch we possess under any circumstance. President Maithripala Sirisena told the United Nations General Assembly in New York that efforts were being made by his people to consolidate peace and forge ahead. His statement that Sri Lanka didnt wish foreign nations to interfere in finding solutions to the national question might not have gone well with the international community. But the work done by the Government in terms of rehabilitation leaves this regime with the choice of inviting foreign observers to make a visit here and witness the positive work being done. The late LTTE cadre Thamilni Jeyakkumaran in her book titled Thiyunu Asipathaka Sevana Yata recalls how ex-tiger rebels were taught life skills at Government maintained rehab centres 33,000 unsolved issues The GoSL recently made aware that officials attached to 53 ministries had conducted a 4-day mobile service in Jaffna to provide solutions to unsolved issues faced by the Tamil community. The authorities had found 33,000 unsolved issues bugging this minority community in the Jaffna peninsular. In this context it seems that the presence of the Army in the north makes Tamils irritable. Northern Chief Minister C.V Vigneswaran has openly stated that he wants Army camps removed from the North. But the sporadic violent activities carried out by suspicious armed gangs and the Army Commander looking forward to receiving orders from Colombo to quell them suggest there is tension and ill feeling in the North. The Government must ensure that such an environment doesnt create a situation among the communities akin to simmering ashes under a fire. A few days ago there were reports about Sri Lanka being ranked 67th out of 146 countries in a Social Progress Index. But such ratings take mostly material gains welfare measures into consideration. The issue we are right now dealing with is associated with tattered minds and a Northern Tamil culture which was almost wiped out. Giving the Tamils modern technology and rebuilding the constructions which were destroyed in the conflict will only solve half their problem. Efforts must be taken to give the war-effected Tamils their right space to culturally prosper and start making contributions to the countrys economy. Arent family members of slain criminals and murderers allowed to commemorate their dead? Commemorating the dead should be viewed from the perspective that all are human beings This is why we should highlight the plight if the Tamils in the north. But in this context it is of concern to see some television channels telecasting stories of yore which highlight how Tamils rebelled against the Sinhalese in greed of the throne. There are also other television series which make the Sinhalese acquire a war mentality. These are quite unwanted at a time when a reconciliation process is in progress. Recently an individual from Kandy staged a protest against LTTE atrocities in the past using pictures as the mode of communication. The protester wanted people to be allowed to make representations to the Geneva HRC. Is this the time for this kind of activity? What Sri Lanka needs now is warm hearts and not the opinion of hot-blooded individuals Let the memories of brutalities committed by both sides blow out of our minds and away from this island, like a hurricane would. Let the reconciliation process sow the seeds of permanent peace. The online registration for the 2020 Diversity Visa Lottery Programme (DV-2020) of the US will open at 9.30 p.m. tonight, the US Embassy in Colombo said. The Diversity Visa Lottery allows randomly selected applicants the opportunity to interview for an immigrant visa and become legal permanent residents of the US. The Embassy cautioned applicants not to be tricked by fake websites and instructed them to reach the valid website of https://www.dvlottery.state.gov/. For instructions, applicants are requested to go to http://ow.ly/SQtGb. Minister Field and High Commissioner James Dauris visiting a mine field Next year Sri Lanka will have enjoyed 10 uninterrupted years free from the misery of armed conflict. Whatever your view on how Sri Lanka has progressed since, that very fact alone is one to cherish. I know how deep the scars from decades of conflict run. When I visited last year I heard first-hand from the families of disappeared persons. It was a stark reminder of how much all communities in Sri Lanka have suffered. I was delighted to be coming back to Sri Lanka. This will be my second in 12 months as Minister for Asia and the Pacific, and it would be all too easy to simply look forward to Englands tour of Sri Lanka, and what a timely celebration that series will be of the enormous goodwill in the UK for Sri Lanka, its people and its culture. But I want to use this opportunity to take a hard look at the distance Sri Lanka has travelled since the war ended, and the path ahead. In my conversations with the government I will be commending the progress made on the commitments it made to the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in 2015 and 2017, while urging greater and faster progress where they have not been met. First, it is important to recognize the positives. The UK did just this at the September session of the UNHRC in Geneva, along with the co-sponsors of Resolution 34/1, Germany, Macedonia and Montenegro. The Office on Missing Persons (OMP) has begun its work. We stand with everyone able to show the courage and determination to advance the Offices work, and I am looking forward to meeting some of the Commissioners while I am in Colombo. There has also been progress on returning private land in the north to its owners, with further commitments to return more land that today is still occupied by the military. The UK has been supporting this effort. In Muhumalai, in the Kilinochchi district, I heard last year from families benefiting from land returns and the work of the HALO trust, a UK-funded de-mining charity. Just this August we announced a further 1.4 million to support further de-mining and resettlement; a tangible demonstration of our continued commitment to supporting the people of Sri Lanka. There is an ongoing process to consider reform to important provisions of the Constitution, including devolution of political authority But I must be candid with you: the pace of progress on a number of key issues remains much slower than we had hoped for. I know, not least from the UKs experience in Northern Ireland, that it is not easy dealing with the legacy of conflict between communities. Time helps, but time alone does not heal all wounds. And as time passes, lack of progress in delivering key steps can undermine communities confidence in reconciliation efforts. It can lessen the positive impact of good work that is done too. So what will I be focusing on specifically when in Colombo this week? Finding the truth is fundamental. The experience of countries that have recovered or are recovering from conflict around the world is that this is essential to restoring real confidence among communities, between citizens and the armed forces, and between voters and governments. To this end, I would like to see much more progress on national accountability and truth-seeking mechanisms that Sri Lanka committed to in 2015. The Prevention of Terrorism Act is something I am regularly asked about by the diaspora and others here in the UK. We would like to see it replaced, as part of wider security sector reform, with a new Counter-Terrorism Act which meets international standards. I am glad that the UK has been able to share its experiences in this area. There is also an ongoing process to consider reform to important provisions of the Constitution, including devolution of political authority. I hope that a way forward can be found on this central issue. Some ask why any of this should matter to the UK. There are also those who like to represent the Geneva resolution in particular as interference by the international community in Sri Lankas domestic affairs. This is unfortunate and unfair. The UK, along with many other friends of Sri Lanka, continues to warmly endorse the governments principled decision to co-sponsor a resolution that provides a valuable framework for peacebuilding and reconciliation. Progress here will help us discuss much more: from post-Brexit trade, education, to the Commonwealth, security in the Indian Ocean, and tackling serious organised crime. Next March the UNHRC will assess the progress Sri Lanka has made. In Colombo I will be urging the government to drive forward its reconciliation efforts with a clear plan for delivery, and offering the UKs steadfast support for their efforts. Sri Lanka still has an historic opportunity to take the steps necessary to build enduring stability and prosperity. I firmly believe this is the future that the vast majority of Sri Lankans want, whether they be at home or overseas, and we all have a part to play in achieving that shared goal. Sweden Details Gripen C/D Offer to Bulgaria The page you requested is only available to subscribers. 1. If you are a Premium Service subscriber, please log in here to access this story: Log-in : Password : 2. If you are not a subcriber, you can: -- buy access to this page: unlimited access for seven days costs 3.00 EUR + VAT (at 20%) if applicable. Clicking on the "Ok" button below will place the item in your shopping cart and return you to our home page, where you will be able to select additional stories. -- select additional stories and services from our home page and pay for them at the same time. -- see your shopping cart. You can also see the contents of your shopping cart at any time by clicking on the "Order" tab on the navigation bar at the top of any page, or by clicking on the "Your order" light blue link in the top right-hand corner of our home page, immediately under the log-on box. UPPER CHICHESTER It may be a little early to break out the Christmas tunes but the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 654 is asking the communitys help to help make the holidays brighter for those less fortunate. From now through Saturday, Nov. 13, the IBEW is collecting new, unwrapped toys for a distribution extravaganza featuring 93.3 WMMRs Jacky Bam Bam as toys are distributed throughout the Delco community. It all started out with one Marine and a pandemic food drive. When the pandemic hit and everything was shut down, IBEW members made a choice. We were shocked, IBEW business manager Paul Mullen said. For 654, instead of taking 2020 and feeling sorry for ourselves, we decided to give back. One way they did that was by providing meals for frontline employees in the Crozer Health system and at Riddle Hospital. They also held a food drive in June 2020. I couldnt get over the generosity of the whole community, Mullen said. The union was able to collect and distribute more than 30 trucks full of food while raising $15,000 for more. They had wanted to do something for Christmas but were unable to do so. Then, this year, IBEW member and Marine Fred Ries stepped forward. Ries, whos been in the IBEW for three years, served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2011 through 2017. When he was in the Reserves, he participated in the Toys for Tots with his fellow Marines at the Folsom center. And, he continued to collect toys to take them over for the Marine distribution. Ive done this myself, Ries said. Id go down there. Every year, they already had the toys. Volunteers would separate the toys. So, I started doing my own toy collections for them. As he was finishing his Reserves, he began his apprenticeship with the IBEW, where Mullen asked him to start a Veterans Committee. I got the word out and guys started bringing me toys, Ries said. And, the thought came to him to make it bigger. One of the first things I said to (Mullen was) Ive been doing this Toys for Tots, if you get the whole local behind it, itll just be that much more better, Ries said. And, now, theres a collection box stationed at the IBEW hall. It worked out great, Ries said. The union has a lot of members. Were able to get this whole thing going. And, everything stays local. All the toys we collect will be for children in Delaware County, Ries said. It goes directly back into our community. It takes a lot of the burden off the parents who maybe cant afford to get the kids everything. Its for parents as much as the kids. He said those wanting to donate and those wanting to receive a toy can go to toysfortots.org for information about campaigns in their area. On Nov. 13, the public as well as IBEW members and families are welcome to the toy drive event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can come and drop the toys off and say hi, Ries said. In the meantime, Mullen said the community can drop toys off at the IBEW hall during business hours, although theyre welcome to drop them off at night or Saturdays as theres usually people there. We can always adjust our schedule, Mullen said. For Toys for Tots, IBEW 654 will be collecting new, unwrapped toys through Saturday, Nov. 13 at their hall at 3729 Chichester Ave. in Boothwyn, from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. For any questions or to make other arrangements, call the hall at 610-494-2820. A San Diego Superior Court judge said two Solana Beach City Council members and a developer have grounds to proceed with their lawsuit against an unsuccessful city council candidate and his campaign manager, who the plaintiffs alleged fabricated personas to defame the council members and spread false information about a development project. The lawsuit filed in May 2017 (and amended in October 2017) by former Councilman Mike Nichols and current Councilwoman Lesa Heebner alleged defamation by unsuccessful council candidate Ed Siegel and Brian Hall, Siegels campaign manager. The lawsuit also alleged invasion of privacy by the defendants. Siegel came in last in a field of six candidates in the November 2016 election. Judge Joan M. Lewis ruled Sept. 6 that Heebner, Nichols and developer Joseph Balla can proceed with their defamation lawsuit against Siegel and his campaign manager Brian Hall. In an email sent to a reporter, Hall said he now plans to appeal that ruling. In a motion filed with the court prior to the Sept. 6 hearing, Hall had sought to have the lawsuit dismissed under an anti-SLAPP law. Hall and Siegel have the right of appeal under the anti-SLAPP (strategic lawsuit against public participation) law, which allows defendants to strike potentially meritless causes of action early in litigation while obtaining a mandatory fee award, according to the Bar Association of San Francisco. The council members and developer alleged Siegel and Hall wrote a letter to the editor to the Coast News in October 2017. The letter was titled, Shady business on the Solana Beach train tracks, and accused Nichols and Heebner of potentially profiting through contracts related to the redevelopment of the Solana Beach train station (which is owned by the North County Transit District), according to the lawsuit. The defendants also wrote a series of emails and social media postings during and after Siegels failed council bid, according to the judges ruling. Lewis found the communications were written by Hall but published under a fake name, Andrew P. Jones, the ruling stated. The courts ruling for the case also shows that Hall created a fake wife for Jones, Lillian Rearden. Unlike a pseudonym where an individual may publish under a name other than their own true name, here Hall actually created people -- fake people -- through which a jury could find he pursued a campaign, at least in part, to defame the plaintiffs, the judge wrote in her ruling. The judges ruling quotes Hall as saying, Lillian Rearden is an alter ego, you know, nom de guerre, nom de plume, whatever you call it, and so is Andrew Jones. So theyre kind of like related. So theyre, you know, husband and wife, you know, fake people. In her ruling, Lewis found that, using the fake identity, Siegel and Hall attacked Heebner, who was not a candidate in the 2016 election, and Nichols. The defendants claimed the council members worked with Balla in a backdoor deal to obtain the contract for the train station project and receive certain professional favors in return. Neither Heebner nor Nichols would have had a vote on the development project, the judge noted. The North County Transit District was in charge of vetting proposals for the project. Under the guise of Andrew P. Jones, Siegel also published an ad in which he claimed Heebner endorsed his campaign, the judges ruling stated. In her ruling, Lewis found that the plaintiffs have met their burden of establishing that defendant acted with actual malice as that term is defined for purposes of a defamation cause of action. Considering the defendants conduct prior to the publication of this advertisement (e.g., We need a Lesa Retaliation; accusing Heebner of backdoor deals, etc.), a trier of fact could conclude that the publishing of this advertisement conveying that Heebner supported Siegels campaign when she clearly did not and defendants (Hall and Siegel) knew she did not, was made with actual malice, the judge wrote in her ruling. In a news release, Ballas attorney, Dick Semerdjian, commended the judge for her findings. In response to reporter questions regarding the fabricated personas, Hall said it was not illegal to create and use them. All that glitters is not gold, he wrote in an email. Andrew Jones is a created entity used during the course of the 2016 election; many political campaigns and Letters to the Editor utilize alternative names for personal expression. It is not illegal to create another persona, is it? He also added that citizens should be able to question the government without fear of retaliation. If people cannot question government, what republic is that in which we live in? he asked in an email. Is it such a bad thing to take a stand against injustice and try to make the world a better place? A private citizen should not be sued by public figures for addressing valid concerns. Siegel declined to comment on the judges ruling. He instead referred a reporter to his lawyer, Jon Corn, who did not respond to requests for comments by this newspapers press time. Heebner said she was grateful the judge realized Hall and Siegel made up their false claims out of thin air with nothing to back them up. These guys were reckless and thought they could get away with anything using the cover of an election, the council member wrote in an email. Heebner said in another email that Brian Hall has elected to appeal the judges ruling so it is necessary for us to participate in the appeal. -- Reporter Joe Tash contributed to this report By Peter Hannam 1 October 2018 (The Sydney Morning Herald) Australia has notched its driest September on record, with less than a third of the usual rainfall for the month, extending the dry spell that has farmers and firefighters increasingly desperate for rain. Victoria posted its second driest September, also collecting just a third of its typical September rain. NSW also had another dry month, with less than half the normal rain, bringing the states year-to-date tally lower than any year but 1902 and 1965, according to Blair Trewin, senior climatologist at the Bureau of Meteorology. Below average rainfall covered almost the entire country last month, Dr Trewin said, adding that it pipped 1957 as the driest September, and trailed only April 1902 as the driest for any month.Melbourne posted its fifth-driest September on record, with no days recording more than 5 millimetres of rain only the second time thats happened for that month in records going back to 1855. []The Murray-Darling Basin, Australias food bowl, had its driest January-September since 1902 the end of the Federation Drought Dr Trewin said.For the rest of the year, the bureaus outlook suggests odds particularly favour drier than average conditions in Victoria, southern South Australia and Tasmania.The signal in the outlook [for October to December] thats really strong is warmth, Dr Trewin said, noting that almost all of the country has an 80 per cent chance of warmer than usual maximum and minimum temperatures. [more] Subscriber content preview SEATTLE (AP) The owner of a company that conducts sailboat sightseeing tours of the Seattle waterfront has been sentenced to nine months in prison for fraud. Federal prosecutors say 67-year-old Paul D. LaMarche, owner of Emerald City Charters, was also ordered to pay about $330,000 in fines and restitution after admitting he collected disability payments while working as a sailboat captain. . . . 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Such a engagement, according to Rory Macleod, would support accelerated sales of the country's dairy, cereals and other products to China due to friendlier Chinese policies for imports. "Fundamentally we may have lost a bit of that personal relationship into government. The thing Australia has to recognise is government-to-government is fundamental in China. Here, government pervades all life and it is important the two are in lock step," Macleod commented. While he is optimistic about getting products into China following recent conversations, he believes its strained relationship with Australia may have delayed approval for Freedom Foods to bring milk into the Chinese market. He claimed that the company had been waiting for a year to obtain a license permitting the delivery of milk from its plant in Ingleburn, New South Wales. However, Macleod thinks there would not be further, long-term delays in the export registration accreditation, as China is keen to promote quality foreign imports. There is also a significant demand among Chinese middle classes for trusted Australian dairy products. This is especially true as Chinese consumers are more inclined to buy milk imports, while the government cracks down on fake products. Yet, even with a breakthrough in China-Australia trade, regulatory risks would be a key challenge in the Chinese market, Macleod admitted. For now, he foresees growth in China's "tier 3" and "tier 4" cities where consumers are less confident about local food safety and purchasing products online. By CNN , O ct. 03, 2018 (CNN)President Donald Trump for the first time directly mocked Christine Blasey Ford's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee by casting doubt on her testimony during a campaign rally. Before the crowd Tuesday night in Southaven, Mississippi, Trump imitated Ford during her testimony, mocking her for not knowing the answers to questions such as how she had gotten to the high school party where she says Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her. Read More: Join us - become an Elderado today at: LarryElder.com Follow Larry Elder on Follow Larry Elder on Twitter "Like" Larry Elder on Facebook The Original Lone Star Republic: West Florida for 74 Days in 1810 West Florida Revolt 1810 The West Florida Revolt of 1810 was fought for independence from Spain and the establishment of the free Republic of West Florida . Rebellion or Revolt? Was the Florida Revolt of 1810 a rebellion or a revolt? It was a proper revolt. The Spanish authority was overthrown by an armed insurrection. Image Above Left: Map outline of today's State of Louisiana, including in darker color the modern eight so-called Florida Parishes , which derive their name from the colonial province of West Florida : East Baton Rouge Parish, West Feliciana Parish, East Feliciana Parish, St. Helena Parish, Livingston Parish, Tangipahoa Parish, Washington Parish, and St. Tammany Parish And yes, Louisiana has parishes, not counties. Another legacy from Catholic French and Spanish rule back in the days. Right: Original Lone Star Flag of the West Florida Republic Who Exactly Fought in the West Florida Revolt? Feliciana county settlers (today's Florida Parishes, then the westernmost part of Spanish West Florida, see map below) fought their Spanish landlords. Among these settlers were many British loyalists and American deserters. The Spanish governor of West Florida at the time was Vicente Folch . The capital of West Florida was Pensacola. When Was It Fought? The West Florida Revolt was fought from September 23 to October 9, 1810. Who Won? Who Lost? Short term winners of this revolt were the rebels, who enjoyed their independent Republic of West Florida for 74 days. Long term winners of this revolt was a third party, the United States, who took advantage of the commotion and annexed the territory outright. This in turn led to the speculation (now proven) that the uprising had been at least in part encouraged by the American government. Spain lost the Floridas (West and East Florida) in slices. By 1819, it was all gone (see Transcontinental Treaty ). The Native Americans meant to send their condolences, but apparently, someone had stolen their letterheads. The Republic of West Florida The Republic of West Florida lasted from September 26 to December 8, 1810. It reached from the Mississippi to the Pearl River, had a flag, an assembly, a governor, governing officials, an army, and a constitution, which, by the way, was pro-slavery but religiously tolerant. You can examine the original copy of the Constitution of the Republic of West Florida, which is housed in the Louisiana State Archives at Baton Rouge. It was placed there in 2002 by Leila Lee Roberts, the great-granddaughter of Fulwar Skipwith. Back to 1810. The boundaries of the Republic of West Florida and of West Florida were not the same. The Republic of West Florida reached from the Mississippi to the Pearl River. West Florida reached from the Mississippi to the Apalachicola River. See here: Border Line of the Republic of West Florida 1810 Click to enlarge Background of the West Florida Revolt It is amazing how many times in history the root of disagreements can be traced back to a big ego from Corsica. On June 6, 1808, Napoleon placed his brother Joseph Bonaparte on the Spanish throne, which had formerly been occupied by Spanish King Ferdinand VII . To make sure Ferdinand stayed away from the coveted chair, Napoleon locked him up. The people of Spain were shocked and outraged, as were the people in the Spanish colonies. But there, they went a step further. In the colonies, this crisis of authority led to unrest, and the war for independence from Spain gained momentum. The monarchy dissolved and Spain lost Are we not in the position of children who come of age at the death of the father of the family? Each one enters into the enjoyment of his individual rights, sets up a new hearth, and governs himself. Camilo Torres, revolutionary in New Granada (today's Colombia, Panama, Ecuador, and Venezuela) Observing these developments, U.S. President James Madison acted swiftly and called dibs on the Floridas: Sir: According to present appearances a crisis is approaching which cannot fail to dissolve the Colonial relation of Spanish America to their parent Country. It is the duty therefore of the United States to turn their attention particularly to the case of the two Floridas in whose destiny they have so near an interest. Besides that which results from Geographical position the United States consider themselves as holding a legal title to the greater part of West Florida under the purchase made by the Convention with France in the year 1803. And they have a fair claim of another kind, which would certainly not be more than satisfied by the acquisition of the residue of the West and the whole of East Florida. Under these circumstances it may be proper not to conceal from the British Government (which may otherwise form views towards these territories inconsistent with the eventual ones entertained by the United States) that any steps on the part of Great Britain interfering with these will necessarily be regarded as unjust and unfriendly, and as leading to collisions, which it must be the interest of both nations to avoid. This instruction from the President is given to you on the supposition that the connection of Great Britain with Spain will have been terminated by events in Europe. You will of course forbear to execute it in a different state of things. And in executing it you will be careful to authorize no inference with respect to the intentions of this Government inconsistent with the principles of justice and neutrality on which the policy of the United States is founded. With great respect [etc.] Letter from Robert Smith, Secretary of State, to William Pinkney, United States Minister to Great Britain Washington, June 13, 1810 The very next day, on June 14, 1810, President Madison met with the Governor of the Territory of Orleans, William C.C. Claiborne . This meeting compelled Claiborne to write the following letter, asking for a revolt: [...] You know, that under the Louisiana Convention, we claim as far eastwardly as the Perdido. That claim never has, and never will I trust, be abandoned. But I am persuaded under present circumstances, it would be more pleasing that the taking possession of the country, be preceded by a request from the inhabitants. Can no means be devised to obtain such request? The time may arrive, perhaps it has arrived, when the people of Florida must adopt measures with a view of their present and future security. [...] to form for themselves an independent government is out of the question! [...] Nature has decreed the union of Florida with the United States, and the welfare of the inhabitants imperiously demands it. [...] and therefore it is, that I, with the more confidence, invite you to lose no time in sounding the views of the most influential of your neighbors on the opposite shore, and in giving to them a right direction. [...] Impress upon their minds the importance of the crisis, the expediency of scouting everything like French or English influence, and assure them, I pray you, of the friendly disposition of the American government. I am aware that among the settlers of Florida, there are persons, who during the American war were disaffected to the United States, and who, probably, may feel some uneasiness at falling under the American government. It may be well to quiet their apprehensions by informing them that the transactions of that day will not be remembered to their injury, that the present is a fit occasion to return to the bosom of their country, and, if embraced with cordiality, the prodigal son mentioned in holy writ did not meet a more heartfelt welcome than they would experience from the American family. [...] Excerpts from a letter from William C.C. Claiborne, Governor of Orleans Territory, to William Wykoff, Jr., a judge who owned a cotton plantation opposite Baton Rouge Washington, June 14, 1810 Historians have difficulties to ascertain to what extent the U.S. government managed to encourage the West Florida revolt, and to what extent it evolved naturally. Fact is that the American stance that "an independent government" was "out of the question" was not shared by all rebels. Thus, the West Florida Revolt unfolded as follows: Timeline of the West Florida Revolt :: July 14, 1810 A group of West Floridian planters are unhappy with their Spanish government in general and their governor Don Carlos de Hault de Lassus (also spelled Carlos Dehault Delassus) in particular. Today, they voted fourteen men as their representatives who will assemble as a convention with the goal to aid the governor in his duties. De Lassus never asked for any help, but he doesn't have the manpower to put the settlers in their place in case they wouldn't take no for an answer. So this election of a convention took place with his permission in order to buy time. He secretly sent for armed help from Vincente Folch to restore his authority. :: July 25, 1810 The Convention meets at St. Johns Plains near Baton Rouge. After pledging allegiance to Spanish King Ferdinand VII, they list their goals and grievances. :: August 22, 1810 After weeks of deliberation, the Convention passed today their resolutions as an ordinance for future implementation, all in all 32 pages long, with only one dissenting vote. Governor De Lassus also added his signature. All seems well. :: September 20, 1810 One of Delassus' letters to Folch, in which he asks for immediate help to suppress this assault on his authority, is intercepted by convention supporters. The Convention now has proof of Delassus' double dealing. :: September 22, 1810 The Convention meets at St. Francisville. Delassus is condemned as a traitor. The men realize that if anything needs to be done, it should be done quickly before Folch's troops arrive from Pensacola. Philemon Thomas , commander of the local militia, is put in charge of capturing the Spanish Fort San Carlos (formerly British Fort Richmond) at Baton Rouge in the name of the Convention. The West Florida Revolt Begins :: September 23, 1810 Shortly before 4 AM, approx. 75 armed rebels led by Philemon Thomas, colonel of the militia, storm the Spanish fort at Baton Rouge. They capture the fort quickly, disarm the defending Spaniards (including Governor De Lassus) and raise their flag. :: September 25, 1810 The Convention dispatches Edmund Hawes to talk to the inhabitants of the St. Helena and St. Ferdinand district, who were not on board with the revolution. In fact, there, the majority of residents were pro-Spanish, and these forces organized themselves to strike back. The Independent Republic of West Florida Declared :: September 26, 1810 The Convention assembles at Baton Rouge and declares West Florida to be free and independent from Spain. :: September 29, 1810 The Convention asks all planters to send slaves to assist in repairs on the fort. The Convention charges Philemon Thomas with the task to quell any potential counter-insurrection in the pro-Spanish St Helena district. :: October 9, 1810 Thomas and about 400 men cross the Amite River. Some of the pro-Spanish individuals sign the Declaration of Independence, others flee to New Orleans. The West Florida Revolt Has Ended :: October 10, 1810 The Convention puts Reuben Kemper and Joseph White at the head of the new Convention Army. Their task is to advance against Mobile, Alabama, and thus to extend their territory to the Perdido River. :: October 27, 1810 President Madison issues a proclamation annexing West Florida, from the Mississippi not only to the Pearl River, but all the way to the Perdido River, stating that this is U.S. territory because it had been part of the Louisiana Purchase of 1803 all along. William C.C. Claiborne , Governor of the Territory of Orleans, is dispatched to see this through. Thus, the West Florida Revolt of 1810 got mixed up in the West Florida Controversy that exists between the U.S. and Spain. :: November 22, 1810 The Convention elects Fulwar Skipwith Governor of State. :: December 1, 1810 Claiborne arrives in Natchez. Capt. John Shaw , leading five vessels down the Mississippi, will provide naval support for the impending invasion. Col. Leonard Covington will lead 300 troops from Washington (Mississippi Territory) to Pointe Coupee, located across the Misssissippi River from St. Francisville. There, Covington will meet up with Claiborne. Col. Pike will led the rest of the army in the Mississippi Territory. :: December 2, 1810 Claiborne gets intel that Skipwith is gathering his troops. He orders Covington to increase his army to 800 troops. :: December 4, 1810 Claiborne writes US secretary of state Robert Smith "you may be assured that no blood will be shed, if it can possibly be avoided." Claiborne orders the American garrison at Fort Stoddart, near Mobile but Mississippi Territory, to be good and ready just in case. He then leaves for Pointe Coupee. Here is Pointe Coupee across the river from St. Francisville: Click to enlarge Or maybe this map: Western West Florida 1810 Click to enlarge :: December 6, 1810 In the morning, the Governor of the Mississippi Territory, David Holmes , visits St Francisville where he meets Skipwith and the Florida assembly in session. Claiborne reports in a letter to Robert Smith: The president's proclamation had previously been circulated among the citizens of St. Francisville, and had become the subject of general conversation. Dissatisfaction as to its tenor was expressed by several members of the assembly, and some citizens ; but Mr. Skipwith in particular took great exceptions. Govr. Holmes gave such explanations, as were believed to be satisfactory to most of the former persons; but Mr. Skipwith continued dissatisfied, as in the afternoon of yesterday he returned to Baton Rouge, accompanied by three or four members of the Florida Legislature, where it is understood, the whole corps are to assemble on Tomorrow. :: December 7, 1810 Claiborne arrives at Pointe Coupee, where he joins the Governor Holmes, and Audley L. Osborn (a lawyer who will become the first judge of the St. Helena Parish). Arriving from across the river is John H. Johnson , a member of the West Florida Convention, who assures Claiborne of his pro-American inclinations, but, citing further from Claiborne's above mentioned letter, then said, that Mr. Skipwith had also charged him to inform me verbally, that he had retired to the Fort of Baton Rouge, and rather than surrender the Country unconditionally and without terms, he would with twenty men only, if a greater number could not be procured surround the Flag Staff and die in its defense. To this message I made no reply, but requested Mr. Johnson to repeat it; which he did. Mr. Johnson again took occasion to express his devotion to the Government of the United States, and urged me to visit immediately St. Francisville where I would find a Militia Troop of Cavalry, a company of Riflemen, and a concourse of Citizens, who would welcome my arrival, in the Territory, and with pleasure recognize me as their Governor. Claiborne sends Osborn to assess the actual level of hospitality he would likely encounter in St Francisville. End of the Independent Republic of West Florida :: December 8, 1810 Osborn returns from St Francisville and reports to Claiborne that he would be favorably received. Claiborne and Holmes cross the river. The citizens of St Francisville met them at the beach and the companies of cavalry and riflemen escorted them to the town. And again from Claiborne's letter: There I saw a pavilion waving which was said to be the Colors of the State of Florida. The Militia being required to form round the flag staff, I appeared in the center, and the president's proclamation being read by a Citizen, I said to the Militia, that having come among them as their Governor and commander in Chief charged by the president of the United States to protect them in the enjoyment of their liberty, property and religion, I had only to observe, that it would be my pride and glory to discharge with fidelity so high a trust. The Florida flag was then ordered by me to be taken down, which was done, the Militia and Citizens cheering (as a mark of respect) as it descended. I then ordered a flag of the United States, which I had. taken from my barge to be reared, which was also done amidst the huzzas of the Militia and citizens. Which only leaves the slightly tougher nut to crack, Skipwith and his men in the fort at Baton Rouge. Continues Claiborne, No efforts which my Country's honor or my own permit, will remain unessayed, to induce Mr. Skipwith to abandon his ill-judged and rash purposes : Nor am I without strong hopes of succeeding. But if conciliatory measures should obstinately fail, the troops of the United States will be commanded to take the fort. Claiborne gets ready to move on Baton Rouge, while waiting for Capt. Shaw and his gun boats to arrive at St Francisville. :: December 10, 1810 It's 3 PM and Claiborne takes the fort at Baton Rouge. In his own words: From the information previously received I certainly had reasons to apprehend resistance, and was prepared to meet it. But on landing near the Town the agreeable intelligence was brought me that the armed Citizens (called here the Convention Troops) were ready to retire from the Fort, and to acknowledge the authority of the United States. It was not understood by me that terms were insisted on. But a wish was expressed that the Florida flag might be treated with respect, and the deserters unmolested. In answer I requested that the Fort might be evacuated at half past two o'clock, and that the citizens should march out and stack their arms. As related to the Florida flag I readily assented that on striking it, such evidences of respect might be shown, as the armed citizens in the Fort thought proper. And with regard to the deserters I stated, that they should remain undisturbed until the president's pleasure respecting them should be known. This arrangement was satisfactory, and the Fort being evacuated in the manner and at the time proposed, it was taken possession of at three o'clock by a Detachment of the United States Troops. Spain abandoned her claims on the land strip between the 31st parallel and 32nd 28' with the Treaty of San Lorenzo in 1795. The U.S. made it their Mississippi Territory in 1798. The rest of West Florida is in Spanish hands. Click to enlarge Map of U.S. Expansion in 1810 West Florida from the Mississippi River to the Perdido River claimed by the U.S. Click to enlarge Here is more about the history of West Florida . Here are the men who governed the Republic of West Florida in 1810. And here is the list of all governors of the colonial province of West Florida from 1763 to 1821 . COMMUNICATION a key to human development - The role of communication - Communication in practice - A new agenda FOREWORD "People's participation is becoming the central issue of our time," says UNDP in its Human Development Report 1993, to which we add, "and participation requires communication". Development programmes can only realise their full potential if knowledge and technology are shared effectively, and if populations are motivated and committed to achieve success. Unless people themselves are the driving force of their own development, no amount of investment or provision of technology and inputs will bring about any lasting improvements in their living standards. Communication is central to this task in many ways. For example, it enables planners, when identifying and formulating development programmes, to consult with people in order to take into account their needs, attitudes and traditional knowledge. Only with communication will the project beneficiaries become the principal actors to make development programmes successful. Helping people at all levels to communicate empowers them to recognise important issues and find common grounds for action, and builds a sense of identity and participation in order to implement their decisions. On top of that, development involves change, new ways of doing things. Will people have the confidence to make a project work? Will they acquire the new knowledge and skills they need? How can barriers of illiteracy be overcome? Communication media and techniques can be powerful tools to advise people about new ideas and methods, to encourage adoption of those ideas and methods, and to improve training overall. Communication approaches are also invaluable for improved coordination and teamwork to manage development programmes, and to gain institutional support. We live in a communication age, and the full impact of communication on development is just starting to be seen. Based on the experience of FAO and other agencies, communication for development has reached the stage where it can have a noticeable and rewarding effect on many development programmes. This booklet not only promotes the concept of development communication but, more important, it also describes how achieving its full potential to support development requires executive decisions by national planners and policy-makers. Jacques Diouf, Director-General, January 1994, Rome THE ROLE OF COMMUNICATION A decisive role can be played by communication in promoting human development in today's new climate of social change. As the world moves towards greater democracy, decentralization and the market economy, conditions are becoming more favourable for people to start steering their own course of change. But it is vital to stimulate their awareness, participation and capabilities. Communication skills and technology are central to this task, but at present are often underutilized. Policies are needed that encourage effective planning and implementation of communication programmes. The new development context Major changes and new emphases have appeared on the development scene. Societies are opening to debate and markets to individual initiative; privatisation and entrepreneurship are being encouraged; new technologies are becoming widely available; management of government services is gradually being relocated closer to the users, if not handed over directly to users themselves, in order to cut costs and seek partners more committed to effective implementation. Indeed, a host of structural adjustments are profoundly affecting most aspects of production and human interaction. These structural adjustments make demands, and have direct economic and social effects on people. Governments of developing countries can no longer fulfil all social and regulatory services by themselves, especially in rural areas. Many economies are overwhelmed by the cost of servicing their foreign debt, and governments are under stringent requirement from international financial institutions to reduce spending. In their quest for greater cost-effectiveness in all their operations, governments must have the active support of, and a greater contribution from, the people. Governments are thus obliged to seek new and perhaps unfamiliar partners, ranging from local leaders to people in a variety of non-governmental organisations. These people are accordingly obliged to shoulder new and perhaps unfamiliar responsibilities. Furthermore, as we near the end of the century, a number of specific issues have come clearly into focus as being central to socio-economic progress, equity, social stability, to the future of humanity- and perhaps even to its survival. The environment and its relation to sustainable agricultural development and food production present an enormous challenge. A prime consideration is the proper use and conservation of natural resources. These resources are often degraded at the hands of impoverished rural people who have no immediate alternative for meeting their needs for land on which to grow food, and for fuelwood. Their abuse of forest areas, with the negative consequences of soil erosion and dwindling water resources, will only be halted through new schemes of employment and income generation and through applying conservation techniques. Such solutions, however, will have to be made acceptable to local people, many of whom will need considerable encouragement and training in new skills. The provisions of Agenda 21, which emerged from the UN Conference on the Environment and Development held in Rio de Janeiro (1992), will only become a reality through large-scale changes in attitudes and behaviour in societies worldwide. Population growth is exerting pressure on natural resources, on food production and on the ability of governments to provide basic services and employment opportunities. Population growth depends on choices made by individuals. Helping people to make more informed choices by raising their awareness of the implications of family size and unwanted pregnancy, and of methods of contraception, requires much more than simply sending out messages. Instead it requires learning, from people and their leaders, how to make such issues socially acceptable and worthy of urgent action. Insight into people's underlying attitudes are needed before they can be helped to change their views. Rural poverty continues to increase in many countries, accelerating urban migration and creating intolerable economic and social problems. The solution, of course, lies in the development of rural areas. Most rural communities are characterised by reliance on traditional knowledge and production systems, based strictly on what has worked for survival in the past. This has led to a view that rural communities are resistant to change, even though their traditional wisdom has been hard-won and its reasoning is sound. Planners need to take this into account, as the first step of any planning exercise. For this, and for all rural development activities, communication between local communities and national planners and policy-makers is of vital importance but, unfortunately, in rural areas it is at its weakest. Malnutrition is both a cause and a consequence of underdevelopment. Recent decades have seen consistent reductions in the daily per caput supply of calories in many countries. The International Conference on Nutrition held in December 1992 drew attention to the fact that more than 780 million people in the world suffer from chronic malnutrition and that, each year, some 13 million children below the age of five die from infectious diseases that can be directly or indirectly attributed to hunger or malnutrition. Nutritional well-being is not just a question of food availability and economics among families, however. It also depends on sufficient knowledge and acceptance of appropriate diets. At the planner's level, incorporating nutritional concerns into development initiatives for agriculture, food security, forestry, land use, exports and so forth requires an increased awareness of nutritional priorities since these are not spontaneously identified in such disciplines. Women in development is another priority issue. In many countries, women shoulder most of the work in rural areas. Given the opportunity, women have shown themselves again and again to be highly responsive and responsible when helped to mobilise themselves, build upon available resources and produce sustainable results. Women need to learn additional technical and organisational skills and more women are needed at the centre of decision-making. Specific challenges where communication is vital include helping women's groups to increase their self-determination and to broaden the dialogue between the sexes regarding rights, privileges and responsibilities. The common denominators - people and communication The first common theme running through the development issues just outlined is the human factor: the outcome will be based less on scientific and material inputs than on the people involved. For, even if our understanding of the development process is changing, there can be no doubt that its future shape, its pace, sustainability and ultimate direction - for better or worse - will be determined by people, and the level of their awareness, participation and skills. Investment in scientific and material inputs will bear no fruit without a parallel investment in "human capital" - in informing people, opening up avenues by which they may reach consensus for action, and developing the knowledge and skills needed to put material investments to the best use. Communication is the second common theme in the issues outlined. For if development can be seen as a fabric woven out of the activities of millions of people, communication represents the essential thread that binds them together. On the one hand, communication as dialogue and debate occurs spontaneously in any time of social change. The increased freedom of expression in recent times has been almost simultaneous with changes in the global political structure. On the other hand, it is communication as a deliberate intervention to affect social and economic change that holds the most interesting possibilities. A development strategy that uses communication approaches can reveal people's underlying attitudes and traditional wisdom, help people to adapt their views and to acquire new knowledge and skills, and spread new social messages to large audiences. The planned use of communication techniques, activities and media gives people powerful tools both to experience change and actually to guide it. An intensified exchange of ideas among all sectors of society can lead to the greater involvement of people in a common cause. This is a fundamental requirement for appropriate and sustainable development. The rural dilemma The primary focus of FAO's work in communication for development lies in rural areas, where the expertise and logistics required to communicate well with rural communities may seem daunting. Nearly 1 000 million people in developing countries, more than one-third of the adult population, are illiterate. Rural communities are often remote and difficult to reach; they lack the infrastructures and communication systems - such as newspapers, radios, televisions and telephones, as well as meeting rooms, offices and schools -that help townsfolk keep abreast of developments and function effectively as informed participants. In rural areas, the challenge is to increase the quantity and accessibility of information, to ensure its exchange in appropriate ways, and to elicit more information from rural people themselves in order to guide development planning. The communication technology and know-how are available We live in a communication era, with rapid expansion in the reach of mass media, and improved techniques for the interpersonal exchange of ideas. The advent of the cheap transistor radio, for example, has brought this medium to remote corners of even the least-developed countries, where a lack of electricity can be overcome by solar-powered transmitters and receivers. Video provides a good example of the technological advances in the communication field. Little more than a decade ago, video was a bulky and expensive medium. The basic kit for shooting in black and white included a camera and recorder weighing about 30 kg, a power supply, and often an electrical generator for fieldwork. Total cost: almost US$10 000. Now video can be filmed in vivid color using a "camcorder". A semi-professional unit, including batteries, weighs less than 3 kg, and costs less than US$3 000. The size and price of video equipment drop further every year helping the use of video playback to expand rapidly everywhere, even to villages in remote rural areas. Preparation of printed materials with type, graphics and photographs, has also been revolutionised. The use of computers for desktop publishing has sharply reduced costs and production time, providing much greater access and versatility. Traditional and popular media such as folk theatre, dances, puppet shows and popular poetry, as well as rural press linked to literacy programmes, and audiovisual materials, can be highly effective channels for disseminating development information and for stimulating community action. Much more is now known about the interpersonal communication skills development field workers need in order to function more effectively as agents of change with rural people. These skills include the use of techniques such as focus group discussions, illustrated discussion tools such as flipcharts that have been pretested to be effective for rural viewers, and other media such as video and audiovisuals that can be used to share ideas and cause reflection, or as part of a training methodology involving presentation, discussion and practice. Interpersonal communication skills can improve activities at all levels, enhancing management, teamwork and the morale of personnel. A look into the future With such rapid advances in communication technology and know-how, the age of telecommunication for rural development may already be upon us. Solar-powered microwave links for telephone communication, facsimile machines and even satellite links, are increasingly reaching into rural areas of the world, offering the possibility of breaking their traditional isolation for the first time in history. In fact today the idea is being mooted that telecommunication learning centres could be established in villages of the developing world, with user-friendly computer terminals that would download interactive learning and management information programmes from a central supply, similar to a water or electricity service, with users paying modest charges for the time of actual use. The programmes could be video images, sound and computer-type data. This technology already exists, and the speed with which it is becoming cheaper and more accessible is so rapid that the use of computers in the villages of developing countries may someday be part of a pragmatic strategy to reduce the rural-urban population shift and promote rural development. Time for communication for development Whether we come to see village learning centres equipped with a centrally linked computer terminal, or, instead, a more systematic use of traditional media for human development, the use of communication no longer depends on the availability of technology: it depends on the will and decisions of policymakers to exploit its potential. Already communication has been highly exploited for political and commercial aims. Now is the time for communication to be applied to development. COMMUNICATION IN PRACTICE ...for better planning and programme formulation Any development programme that regards people as mere recipients, rather than as the actual creators of change and progress, usually fails. Consulting the people and actively involving them in making the decisions that will affect them virtually ensures the programme's success. In practical terms, effective planning must make a deliberate effort to determine what people want to do, can do and can continue to do in a sustainable way. To find this out, communication techniques go far beyond the simple question-and-answer survey. Meaningful discussion, generated by people trained in interpersonal communication skills, and audiovisual tools, such as video or radio, can help the community to identify its true problems and priorities and where its capabilities and needs lie. This self-analysis can help a community to generate realistic proposals for new development initiatives and stimulates tremendous interest to have these initiatives succeed. The views of rural people can also guide prospective work plans, preventing them from moving in the wrong direction. For example, agricultural research can be tied directly to what farmers really want and are capable of using. A systematic communication process brings researchers and practitioners together. A policy of communicating with people intensively before a development programme is even drafted, and taking into account their views, capabilities and needs as they see them, is the best insurance a planner can have. "Participatory planning" helps to answer US$149-million question Planners in Mexico in 1975 contemplating a large-scale integrated rural development project wished to avoid the bitter experience of a prior agro-industrial project in the 1960s which drained 83 000 hectares, built roads, bridges, new villages, schools and medical centres, and yet met with serious resistance from local residents, causing the massive effort to fall far short of its objectives. How could a similar new project, budgeted at US$149 million, be ensured of success? The new project, the planners determined, should be designed with the proposed beneficiaries themselves, the rural communities, in the hope of securing their active participation. A communication process was initiated. Local people's attitudes and needs were elicited using video and audio recordings that were then played back to the communities themselves as a basis for discussion. People began to articulate more clearly the realities of their situation, their priorities and what they felt capable of achieving. A true dialogue between the rural communities and planners resulted in the birth of the first phase of an extraordinary project in 1978-84: PRODERITH (Programme of Integrated Rural Development in the Tropical Wetlands). This development programme went on to increase the income of 3 500 farming families in a 500 000 -hectare zone by 50 percent. It also trained 500 development professionals. Most significantly, it developed a methodology for rural development which was applied in a successive phase to a 1.2 million-hectare area affecting 650 000 people. Communication played a decisive role at every stage of the project - planning, increasing people's participation, training and evaluation. The World Bank, which helped to finance PRODERITH, considered it to be among the most successful programmes they supported, attributing much of its success to its rural communication system. This system had at absorbed only 1.2 percent of the total cost of the large infrastructure project by the end of its first phase in 1983. PRODERITH achieved an internal rate of return, which measures the economic success of the venture, 7.2 percent higher than originally foreseen. COMMUNICATION IN PRACTICE ...for people's participation and community mobilisation The dynamic strategy behind people's participation and community mobilisation is to ~ release the energy of rural people by building I their confidence to make decisions and carry them out ~ as a community in a self-reliant way. and to grove that A. they benefit from such efforts. Communication activities can help people, even those from different social groups within a community, to share information and exchange ideas in a positive and productive fashion. This dialogue can be enriched by understanding how development issues affect them, discovering what others think in other communities, and seeing what other communities have achieved. These are effective methods to help people to reach a consensus and find common grounds for action, based on their own needs and capabilities. Dialogue can be initiated and guided by field staff who have good interpersonal communication skills. Discussion tools such as flipcharts, audio-cassettes, slides and even video, can be used to help people visualize and reflect upon their own reality. Rural radio too can be a popular forum where local people do most of the talking about technical and cultural topics. These activities can lead to a serious diagnosis of problems and a search for solutions. Gaining people's participation always requires much face-to-face work within the community in order to make a bridge of understanding. Communication skills and media help people to visualize and cross that bridge more swiftly. In praise of sheep In Benin in early 1992 a government veterinarian visited a village near the town of Parakou with a number of good ideas to help the community improve its livestock production. Sheep and goats, many sickly and thin, wandered everywhere, stripping the land bare. The veterinarian advised local residents to plant fast-growing fodder crops, build enclosures in which to keep the stock and have the animals vaccinated. The people, however, rejected his ideas immediately and absolutely. They had trust neither in the government official himself, nor in his untraditional ideas. Not one to give up, the veterinarian managed to have the village - and himself - included in a new communication project. Before long, he had been trained to use better interpersonal communication skills and tools, and the village was soon erupting into lively discussions about his proposals almost every night. Today in this village one sees large and healthy sheep and goats. Almost every home has an enclosure to keep the animals, and fodder gardens to feed them. Owners sell the sheep for triple the price they obtained before. Many use the profits to buy buffaloes to plough their fields for the first time. However, the main talk is not about new buffaloes, or ploughs, or the labour saved or even whatever happened to the veterinarian (who moved on to another village); instead it is about marketing, genetic improvement, flock size and feed. To an outsider, credit for all these improvements in living standards might seem due to the Veterinarian or perhaps to the "communication process" itself. Residents would probably disagree-they praise the sheep. COMMUNICATION IN PRACTICE ... for changing life-styles Rural populations, and women in particular, find it increasingly difficult to cope with rapidly changing social conditions, which often lead to the development of unsettling life-styles. For instance, in societies where marriage and childbearing no longer go together, the social and economic cost of teenage pregnancies weighs heavily on people's, and the nation's, resources. In others, rural youth, often from fatherless homes, increasingly rebels against parental poverty. Pressed by peers, teenagers often drop out of school, fall for drugs, or end up in the gangs of city slums. Communication can focus on the long and sensitive process of changing behaviour and life-styles. Quite recent communication research methodologies make it possible to gain insight into the underlying reasons why people adopt a certain life-style. Once this understanding is acquired, communication approaches can respond in a combination of ways. Mass media can raise awareness and public understanding of the social implications of problems such as adolescent fertility, AIDS or drug abuse. Other communication activities can bring about informed processes of change among the audiences they intend to reach. Interpersonal communication techniques such as peer counselling have the capacity to develop coping mechanisms, self-esteem and images of a better future among teenagers, especially if combined with group discussions and other tools which create a dialogue. Social communication activities based, for example, on street and village theatre, and using truly participatory methodologies, can pioneer attitudinal changes at the community level and stimulate nonthreatening environments in which teenagers wish to learn about life. Rosmah MansorThe Malaysian anti-corruption agency arrested ex-PM Najib Razaks wife Wednesday for laundering money looted from the 1MDB sovereign wealth fund. Rosmah Mansor, 66, will face several charges for her role in the 1MDB scandal, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission said. Former Prime Minister Najib was arrested in July. He has been charged with three counts of money laundering and criminal breach of trust. He has pleaded not guilty. During raids on houses and condos owned by Najib and his wife in July, Malaysian police seized $273 million worth of jewelry, handbags, and other valuables. The head of Malaysias commercial crime unit said the raids resulted in the biggest seizure in Malaysian history. During the raids, police seized cash in 26 currencies with a total value of $28.6 million. They confiscated 457 handbags, including Hermes bags that alone are worth $12 million. Also seized were 423 watches valued at $19 million, police said, along with 234 sunglasses worth $93,000. Twelve thousand pieces of jewelry were found in 25 bags. Included were 1,400 necklaces, 2,200 rings, 2,100 bangles, 2,800 pairs of earrings, 1,600 brooches and 14 tiaras, police said. The jewelry could be worth around $180 million. ____ Harry Cassin is the managing editor of the FCPA Blog. The UK Serious Fraud Office said Wednesday it is trying to recover assets bought with money connected to corrupt deals in Uzbekistan. The claim concerns a number of assets, including three UK properties, which the SFO alleges were obtained using the proceeds of corrupt deals in Uzbekistan involving Gulnara Karimova and Rustam Madumarov, the SFO said. Karimova, 45, the eldest daughter of the late Uzbek President Islam Karimoa, allegedly took at least $300 million in bribes from Swedens Telia Company AB and Amsterdam-based VimpelCom. Rustam Madumarov, the other person named in the SFO action, has been described as Karimovas longtime boyfriend. He was reportedly sentenced to 10 years in jail in Uzbekistan in 2014 for stealing assets and tax evasion. According to the Panama Papers, Madumarov owned multiple offshore companies. In September last year, Telia agreed to pay $965 million to resolve FCPA offenses for bribery in Uzbekistan. Some of the settlement money was paid to Swedish and Dutch authorities. In February 2016, Amsterdam-based VimpelCom reached a $795 million resolution with U.S. and Dutch authorities. The U.S. FCPA penalties amounted to $397.6 million. Telia and VimpelCom admitted bribing Karimova to win mobile phone licenses. The Uzbek Prosecutor Generals office said Karimova was convicted of embezzlement in 2017 and is still in custody. She was placed under house arrest in 2014 in Uzbekistans capital, Tashkent. As many as 60 of her alleged associates have been convicted in Uzbekistan and sentenced to long prison terms for financial crimes. The SFO said Wednesday it issued a claim for civil recovery in the High Court in London under Part 5 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. Karimova once served as Uzbekistans ambassador to the United Nations. She also designed clothes and sometimes appeared on the catwalk. In 2015, the DOJ asked authorities in several European countries to freeze about $1 billion in assets linked to her. In a separate civil forfeiture complaint filed in June 2015, the DOJ listed more than $300 million in bank and investment accounts held in Belgium, Luxembourg, and Ireland. The money was traceable to bribes or laundered money that VimpelCom and Telia paid to Karimova, the DOJ said. The SFO said Wednesday no date has been set for a hearing in its action against Karimovas assets. ____ Richard L. Cassin is the publisher and editor of the FCPA Blog. The final preparations at Istanbuls new airport are coming to an end as it is due to officially open next month. The Istanbul New Airport, which will be one of the largest in the world, will be put into service in a grand ceremony to be attended by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on 29th October. In a news conference on Sunday, President Erdogan put an end to the recent rumors that there would be a delay in the official opening of the new airport, saying that the tests were carried out during the Turkeys first aerospace and technology festival Teknofest on 20-23 September and that it will open as scheduled on 29th October, the 95th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey. Istanbul New Airport, the third in the city, will replace Ataturk International Airport as the main flight hub in countrys most populated city. The airport will be completed in four phases The first phase consists of a main terminal building with an annual capacity of 90 million passengers, a main air traffic control tower, two runways, one 3.75-kilometers and another 4.1-kilometers-long, where 60-meter wide A380 aircraft can land, a parking area capable of holding 347 aircraft, airport support facilities including hangars, a cargo warehouse, catering and ground services and a parking garage with the capacity for 18,000 vehicles. Tests on four Instrument Landing System (ILS) installed on all the runways to be opened in the first phase of the new airport were carried out by the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMI). Instrument Landing System (ILS) ensure that aircraft can make a safe landing in foggy, rainy and snowy weather where the cloud ceiling is low and the ground visibility is limited. All the navigation aids, radar and communication systems of the airport under DHMIs responsibility are also operational. Istanbul New Airport will have an annual passenger capacity of 150 million once the last expansion stage is complete but could eventually be expanded to handle 200 million annual passengers in the coming years. The transfer of major flight operations from Ataturk to the new airport is expected to take place within 48 hours after the inauguration ceremony. First flights Turkish Airlines (THY) plans to not to fly for at least the first 18 hours of the transition. The airline will make the first flight from the new airport to the capital Ankara on 31st October at 2 p.m. The first overseas flights will be made to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and Azerbaijan. Transport and Infrastructure Minister Cahit Turhan recently confirmed that three of the worlds largest cargo services, UPS, FedEx and DHL, have applied for rental spots at Istanbuls new airport. The airport, one of the many megaprojects of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) to raise Turkeys profile and boost the economy, will accommodate 3,500 takeoffs and landings per day. It will have some 100,000 square meters of floor space, an overall parking capacity of 25,000 vehicles, 143 boarding bridges, a 42-kilometer baggage handling system and cargo capacity for 5.5 million tons. It is expected to generate more than $15 billion in revenue for the Turkish economy and create more than 225,000 jobs. Source: Daily Sabah For more information about the Istanbul New Airport visit igairport.com London, UK-based venture capital firm Balderton Capital raised $145m for a new fund. Backers in Balderton Liquidity I included existing and new limited partners across Europe, the US and Asia. Led by Daniel Waterhouse, partner, the fund will buy equity stakes from early shareholders in European tech startups. Investments will be considered in sectors similar to that of Baldertons existing early-stage venture fund, which primarily backs software and internet-powered companies in both the consumer and enterprise space, where the company was founded in Europe. The new fund will typically invest in European founded growth stage companies where early shareholders wish to obtain pre-exit liquidity. Balderton will take minority stakes, between regular fund-raising rounds, making it possible for early shareholders including angels, seed funds, current and former founders and employees to realize early returns, reinvest capital in the ecosystem, or reward founders and early employees. Today, there are over 500 companies in Europe which have raised more than $20m over the last decade. Balderton conservatively estimates the total value of early shareholder stakes in these companies is at least $4bn, in both the consumer and enterprise sectors, with potentially hundreds of early shareholders wishing to free up capital to realise returns, reinvest, reward employees and founders, or launch new technology startups. With this new fund, the firm is expanding aims to take advantage of new investment opportunities arising in the maturing European tech ecosystem. Waterhouse will lead the new fund, with support from investment principal Laura Connell, who recently joined Balderton, and the rest of the Balderton team. FinSMEs 03/10/2018 . 14 // , 09:00 ., . , . " ", "". ... This blog covers software patent news and issues with a particular focus on wireless, mobile devices (smartphones, tablet computers, connected cars) as well as select antitrust matters surrounding those devices. The folks in charge of selling off Toys 'R' Us assets after the bankrupt global retailer shut down nearly 1,000 stores and laid off over 33,000 people this year have decided to cancel the auction and revamp the brand instead. According to court papers filed on Monday and brought to our attention by the Wall Street Journal, the lenders currently controlling what remains of Toys 'R' Us believe the brand is strong. They've now canceled a planned bankruptcy auction for Toys 'R' Us assets -- including mascot Geoffrey the Giraffe -- even though they state that they received some legit bids for some of the stuff that was up for sale. "Notwithstanding the receipt of Qualified Bids for certain of the Intellectual Property Assets, the Debtors have determined, in consultation with the Consultation Parties, to cancel the Intellectual Property Auction and reorganize Debtor Geoffrey pursuant to the Second Amended Chapter 11 Plans of Toys Delaware Debtors and Geoffrey Debtors," reads an excerpt of the notice of auction cancellation. "Which Plan, among other things, contemplates a new, operating Toys 'R' Us and Babies 'R' Us branding company that maintains existing global license agreements and can invest in and create new, domestic, retail operating businesses under the Toys 'R' Us and Babies 'R' Us names, as well as expand its international presence and further develop its private brands business." This ill-defined plan is pitched as a superior alternative to auctioning off Toys 'R' Us assets, both as a way to facilitate "the probably economic recovery of creditors" and to create jobs by establishing a new independent U.S. business using said assets. While it's yet unclear whether any of those jobs will actually materialize, the Journal reported yesterday that some of the current Toys 'R' Us stakeholders (specifically Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and Bain Capital, two of the three companies that conducted a buyout of Toys 'R' Us in '05 and piled it high with outstanding debts) have created a $20 million fund to pay severance to laid-off Toys 'R' Us workers. However, labor advocacy group Rise Up Retail estimates that Toys 'R' Us workers are owed much more -- roughly $75 million in severance. "Bain and KKR made an investment that resulted in a lot of harm for families and communities, and the responsible thing to do is step up and pay workers what they are owed," Rise Up Retail campaign manager Carrie Gleason told the Journal. Discover Warframes Thrilling All-Out-War Action and Assemble the Prime Vanguard with the Prime Resurgence to Prepare for a New War with Old Enemies this December State funding will create this new workforce development program with the affects of climate change in mind. Travel news : Fly to North America, Norway or Bordeaux More and more travelers, more and more flights: Iceland Air is increasing its number of flights to North America significantly. And Lufthansa continues to fuel the boom of Northern Lights tourism with a direct flight from Munich to Troms, Norway. Teilen Teilen Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Tweeten Tweeten Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Drucken More North America flights from Iceland Air In the coming year, travelers will see more Iceland Air flights going from Germany to North America. The airline announced that the number of weekly flights will increase significantly starting in May of 2019. On the routes from Frankfurt and Munich to Reykjavik for connecting flights, the number of departures doubles from 7 to 14 per week. From Hamburg there will be 10 instead of 7 weekly flights. The number of connections from Iceland to North America is also increasing. Destinations include New York, Boston and Toronto. From Munich nonstop to the Northern Lights of Norway For the first time, Lufthansa is flying non-stop from Munich to northern Norway's Troms this winter. There, tourists can watch the polar lights. The connection will be flown twice a week, Thursdays and Saturdays between December 1, 2018 and March 30, 2019, according to Visit Norway. Lufthansa has been offering direct flights from Frankfurt to Troms since the winter of 2016/17. From the point of view of Norwegian tourism experts, this has contributed significantly to the boom in Northern Lights tourism. Ryanair connects Cologne and Bordeaux From the Rhineland into the southwest of France: Ryanair will add a new route from Cologne / Bonn to Bordeaux in its flight plan for next year. The connection will be flown three times a week from April 2019, the Irish low-cost carrier said. Racism in Germany : How Bonn residents experience racism in everyday life Bonn The debate about racism in Germany does not let up as responses to a GA inquiry showed. In Bonn and the region, many migrants feel discriminated against - but some Germans share the feeling. Teilen Teilen Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Tweeten Tweeten Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Drucken A post in Facebook generated nearly 300 comments in the first 24 hours. It was seeking people in Bonn who felt they had been discriminated against because of their origin. But the majority of them apparently did not have any foreign roots. They felt the newspaper should worry not about migrants, but rather about Biodeutschen, which refers to native Germans, some who feel constantly and unfairly insulted as Nazis or racists. Many Germans with roots in the Middle East also responded to the posting from GA, as well as immigrants from Eastern Europe. This sentence was heard more than once: "I could tell you a thousand stories." If there is one thing that both sides agree about, its that everyday discrimination exists. Also here in the region. Physical therapy student is failed One woman relates the story of her training to become a physical therapist. "The studies actually went really well - until the last semester. Then the harassment by the training staff began," recalls the Bonn native. "Out of the blue." Her performance was rated as poor during an internship at a hospital, while her grades during the study period had always been very good. Actually, I was an exemplary student," says the daughter of Israeli parents and laughs a bit. She complained to the director, who played down the issue. In an interim exam, the staff member told her he did not like her and gave her the worst possible grade, with no explanation as to why. Even the test person in the exam, a fellow student could not see any obvious mistakes. But she was failed, and the staff member was said to have uttered, Do you seriously think I would let a terrorist pass? A renewed appeal to the director failed. It was three and a half years ago. She did not try to take the matter to court. She says "But my psyche is so injured, I have no confidence." Difficulty finding training placement due to headscarf In 2013, Shadin Hadad (not her real name) was looking to train as a dental medical assistant. At first, it seemed she would have a good chance in the clinic where her family often went for treatment. But when the daughter of Moroccan parents submitted her application in person, the hiring staff saw that she was wearing a headscarf. She had been told that training there would only be possible if she took off her headscarf. Of course I didnt want to do that, she recalls. The clinic stated openly that it was the reason they couldnt take her, it made a bad impression on patients, and intimidated them. She sent out more applications, without photo, so that she wouldnt be judged. But when potential employers saw her person, she was told that her headscarf was problematic. It took three years for her to find a training spot - in Bornheim. She said she has a very nice boss, but many patients seem surprised that she speaks fluent German, although she is born in Germany. She said the team at work is supportive. At the central train station, she felt physically threatened once because of her headscarf. Difficulties with payment and respect Mariana Zankova (not her real name) came from from Bulgaria to study in Cologne six years ago. With a Masters degree in media and art science, she took to the labor market two years ago. "I had some bad experiences, unfortunately not just one," the 31-year-old summarizes. As a copywriter in a Dusseldorf advertising agency, she received positive feedback, but they tried to reduce her pay. Allegedly she worked less than she had said. Her texts had long been sold, but she had to wait three months for her fee. "That was super stressful for me," says Zankova. Her German colleagues did not have any problems. An art gallery owner, for whom she worked as a publicist, distributed her text, acting as if she had written it herself even though she had not been engaged as a ghostwriter. In the end, the gallery owner had to pay her compensation. But the whole procedure with a lawyer was very painful. She says that as an Eastern European in a demanding occupation, one sometimes gets dirty looks. Sometimes I feel that other people feel threatened by me," she says. Her texts in German, Bulgarian and English are always praised, but her work reviews speak a different language. Bosses rejected her editorial ideas and later implemented them themselves. "I feel that they can not imagine that I can actually do things and that they have to pay for them accordingly." Teacher advises student to open vegetable shop Omer Kirli is an SPD politician and he reports of having the "feeling that one does not belong at all". When he last visited a cafe in Siegburg with his Turkish parents and two siblings, an elderly man got up and mumbled, "I'm not sitting here." "I do not know why, but I can well imagine what it was all about ", says the Siegburg city council member. In fourth grade was when Kirli had the most memorable experience. He wanted to choose a high school that would eventually allow him the chance to attend university. His class teacher was of a different opinion - he could train to become an electrician or open a vegetable shop. Today, Kirli has a Bachelors degree in Political Science and a Masters in Social Sciences. "My life biography would have been very different if I had listened to my teacher," the 29-year-old is certain. Kirli believes that racism isnt just a problem in the older generation, it has to do with a lack of contact with people who have different origins. "I think younger people are more open. They grew up with it and realize and can accept better that our country is changing," he says. "When you get to know each other, you realize that you are not that different." Being a non-native can be an advantage Peter Binner is the head of a product line at the automotive supplier Boge. He works in a team of 160 people with many foreign workers. He said that in the daily work with people from other countries, "prejudices were quickly wiped out". Koreans, Russians, Turks and people from many other countries are consciously hired because they speak native as Binner puts it. They can communicate with international clients in their native language. "Here it is no disadvantage to be a foreigner - on the contrary," he says. "An international, global business can only function in that way." xspraise at 3-10-2018 06:35 AM (3 years ago) (m) A 9-year-old girl identified as Irebami who was relocated to Togo, a year ago by the ex-lover of her mother has been reunited with her family. The young girl was reunited with her mother at a police station in Lagos on Monday (yesterday). A 9-year-old girl identified as Irebami who was relocated to Togo, a year ago by the ex-lover of her mother has been reunited with her family. The young girl was reunited with her mother at a police station in Lagos on Monday (yesterday). Men of Ikotun Police Division, Lagos, last week interrogated a Lagos based herbalist, Kofi Mesan, for allegedly abducting the daughter of his lover, Adebisi Adelowo. Adelowo, a mother of four had accused her former boyfriend, Mesan, of abducting her daughter, Irebami, and relocating her to Togo. Adebisi, also disclosed that Mesan was not Irebamis biological father. According to the woman, Mesan, who lives in Isheri-Olofin area of Alimosho Local Government, allegedly tricked her into releasing her daughter to him with a promise to help her enrol the girl in school. She claimed that her daughters father was one Toyin Awolere, a spare parts dealer at Ladipo Market, Mushin, Lagos. She said that Awolere proposed to her in 2007, and their relationship resulted in pregnancy. Adebisi said Awolere abandoned her shortly after her mother died of a strange illness. She said she was introduced to Mesan in the course of searching for a solution to her mothers mysterious illness. She added that Mesan took advantage of her crashed marriage to lure her into a relationship, after his marriage to another woman crashed. Mesan, however, allegedly relocated her daughter to Togo, without her consent. It was learnt that Mesan was asked to write an undertaking that he would produce the girl on Monday October 1. The police told Mesan to produce the girl by Monday, or risk prosecution Men of Ikotun Police Division, Lagos, last week interrogated a Lagos based herbalist, Kofi Mesan, for allegedly abducting the daughter of his lover, Adebisi Adelowo.Adelowo, a mother of four had accused her former boyfriend, Mesan, of abducting her daughter, Irebami, and relocating her to Togo. Adebisi, also disclosed that Mesan was not Irebamis biological father.According to the woman, Mesan, who lives in Isheri-Olofin area of Alimosho Local Government, allegedly tricked her into releasing her daughter to him with a promise to help her enrol the girl in school. She claimed that her daughters father was one Toyin Awolere, a spare parts dealer at Ladipo Market, Mushin, Lagos.She said that Awolere proposed to her in 2007, and their relationship resulted in pregnancy. Adebisi said Awolere abandoned her shortly after her mother died of a strange illness.She said she was introduced to Mesan in the course of searching for a solution to her mothers mysterious illness. She added that Mesan took advantage of her crashed marriage to lure her into a relationship, after his marriage to another woman crashed.Mesan, however, allegedly relocated her daughter to Togo, without her consent.It was learnt that Mesan was asked to write an undertaking that he would produce the girl on Monday October 1.The police told Mesan to produce the girl by Monday, or risk prosecution Post Reply I am Victor, I write reportage on sport news and latest metro happenings in Nigeria. Posted: at 3-10-2018 06:35 AM (3 years ago) | Hero Can a properly registered American voter lose the right to vote simply by failing to return a postcard? Yes, according to a controversial U.S. Supreme Court case decided this June on a 5-4 vote.The case,, centered on Larry Harmon, a software engineer and Navy veteran. Like 70 million other registered voters, Harmon hadn't cast a ballot in the 2012 presidential election. He also hadn't voted in the 2010 and 2014 midterms, or in any primary, local or special election over a six-year period.Ohio election officials had no evidence that Harmon had moved from his address of 16 years. But his non-voting record generated that postcard, which essentially demanded, "Tell us you still live here, or we might purge you from the voting rolls." Harmon, who testified that he didn't recall getting the notice, was then refused a ballot when he showed up in 2015 at his neighborhood polling site.Voting-rights activists were predictably incensed. "Anti-democratic" and "chilling" were just some of the milder epithets. Advocates and editorial writers warned that millions of infrequent voters would be disenfranchised should other states adopt Ohio's approach.As a former election official -- I served as Oregon's secretary of state from 1991 to 1999 -- I agree that Ohio's law unnecessarily disenfranchises too many voters, who also happen to be disproportionately young, lower-income and minority. But amid the trees here is a far more important forest. Thecase reveals a remarkable opportunity for using a slightly different kind of postcard to accomplish two important goals that too often are seen as conflicting: dramatically improving the accuracy of voting rolls while helping millions of Americans never come close to losing their voting rights.Voters who, like Harmon, remain at a given addresses but seldom vote are the much smaller challenge for election officials. Far more voters, in Ohio and elsewhere, eventually get purged because theychanged their official residences but haven't told election officials. Census data show that about 20 million American adults change their legal addresses each year, about 11 percent of the population.Election officials in 18 states similarly use the U.S. Postal Service's National Change of Address (NCOA) database largely for this negative purpose: to identify -- and potentially purge -- voters who've moved. Voters whose cards are returned with no forwarding address are presumed to be inactive and potentially purge-worthy. When a new in-county or in-state address is indicated, the voter then typically receives a second card at the new address with this message: We think you've moved; you must let us know if you want us to update your registration.Ohio sent address-verification postcards to 1.5 million people during the 2012 election cycle; 1.2 million failed to respond. Recent national data compiled by the federal Election Assistance Commission suggests a similar non-response rate of 75 percent among 20 million such notices.This "opt (back) in" approach, putting the onus on the voter, stands in sharp contrast to the "opt out" approach to NCOA-based registration updates that's long been used by the "vote-at-home" states of Colorado, Oregon and Washington. (The accuracy of voting rolls especially matters when ballots are mailed out to 100 percent of active registered voters.) Our NCOA-prompted postcards have a far more proactive, voter-friendly message, along these lines: "Since official records indicate you've moved to Address B, we've automatically updated your voter registration to that address. Please let us know if youwant us to do this." For voters who don't return the card, but who want to keep their old address for official voter-registration purposes, there's still a fail-safe: Inactive voters can re-update their registrations back to their old addresses. In Colorado, even wrongly purged voters can re-register up through Election Day.The vote-at-home states that use this NCOA-based process of automatic registration updates approach typically get a 2-4 percent return rate of non-forwardable ballots, in sharp contrast to states where 10 percent or more of existing voting records map back to an incorrect or outdated address.Would such a system solve all our registration problems? Of course not. For starters, not every moving voter fills out a postal change of address form. However, the 40 percent figure cited in Justice Samuel Alito's majority opinion inis so spurious that it would be almost laughable were it not for Alito's heavy reliance on it to rationalize Ohio's "gotcha" approach in this arena. NCOA data show the share of individuals who don't inform postal officials when they move is closer to 10 percent.While federal law requires all states to use motor-vehicle records to help update their rolls, voters might go years between such transactions. Using monthly updates from NCOA in this proactive way can make the registration update process far more immediate, seamless and automatic for the vast majority of voters.The Postal Service and its workers have done a remarkable job in making mail-based election systems run smoothly (and with much higher turnout, too) in vote-at-home states . But even without immediately embracing that system, a lot more states could start using the U.S. mail to help -- and not hinder -- voters in protecting their most important of constitutional rights. Jennifer McCormick, the state superintendent of public instruction, added a bombshell footnote Monday after announcing her goals for next year's legislative session -- she will not run for re-election in 2020.The Republican said her decision to leave office after just one term largely was prompted by ongoing political infighting over the status of the state superintendent's office, which she sees as "noise" and a distraction from educating children."I have no patience for that, because I got into this office because I said I wanted to do what's right for kids, and we have stayed focused on kids; our team has stayed focused on kids, and we will continue to stay focused on kids," McCormick said.She indicated that "pockets of people" in Indiana's education community are pushing to move up to 2021 the start date for a governor-appointed "secretary of education," as a replacement for the elected state superintendent of public instruction.The Republican-controlled General Assembly last year set the changeover for 2025 due to a Senate procedural issue. There were no proposals advancing the start of an appointed state schools chief filed during the 2018 General Assembly.Nevertheless, McCormick said she's regularly asked by school leaders and parents about the issue, which she said drains the energy out of every conversation, and "I'm just growing very weary of that."I've made up my mind. I'm not going to run for state superintendent," McCormick said."To put that out now, to say I have no intentions of running for a second term, hopefully will calm that rhetoric down."Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb, who previously said he was satisfied with the 2025 start date for an appointed secretary of education, indicated it may be time to consider moving it up, "Now that we know that she has decided not to seek re-election.""There's a lot of work to be done and there's not a day to waste," Holcomb said. "If there is a more ideal way that will better serve kids in the state of Indiana and how we educate, then we need to get to that as quickly as we can."McCormick said her decision to leave office also was due in part to the educational governance structure in the Hoosier State.As state superintendent, McCormick said she has all the responsibility of complying with state and federal law and implementing education policy -- but little say over the decisions that shape those laws and policies."The governance structure doesn't make sense. It's not student-friendly. It's not school-friendly at times," McCormick said."I know there's a lot more that we could offer students but because of barriers, it's a struggle."Indiana essentially has two, somewhat duplicative state education agencies: McCormick's Department of Education and the State Board of Education.Legislative Republicans and Republican Gov. Mike Pence built the state board into a competing education agency between 2013 and 2016 to reduce the power of Democratic State Superintendent Glenda Ritz, who McCormick defeated in an election-night shocker.But state lawmakers have not returned much of the office's former authority to McCormick despite her membership in the Indiana Republican Party, and Republican-appointed state board members have stymied her initiatives on teacher hiring and school accountability reform.McCormick said regardless of her situation, she believes Hoosiers should be wary of an appointed state schools leader since the position, in other states, tends to be a revolving door based on the educational trend of the moment."I am a firm believer that citizens should have a voice. They should have a voice in education," McCormick said. "We are half of the state's budget. We are the future of Indiana."Looking ahead to the two years remaining in her term, McCormick vowed: "We're going to get a lot of impressive work done."That includes asking next year's General Assembly for a 3 percent annual increase in student tuition support, boosting funding for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programming to $20 million over two years up from $2 million, expanding pre-kindergarten availability beyond 20 of the state's 92 counties and promoting school safety."We will continue to work tirelessly," McCormick said. "I will always be here for kids, I will not waver from that and I won't play politics."Teresa Meredith, president of the Indiana State Teachers Association, said the state's largest teachers union supports McCormick's call for increased education funding and is disappointed that McCormick will not seek re-election."She has been a strong advocate for public schools and her voice will be missed at the Statehouse," Meredith said. SPEED READ: The longer a state has been around, the more likely it is to have financial problems, according to the annual "Financial State of the States" report by the transparency organization Truth in Accounting. Politics is to blame. Older states tend to have thriving environments for special interest groups, which have been shown to suppress economic vitality by running up pension and retiree health-care debt. As the nation's median age ticks up, recent research from S&P Global Ratings has warned that an older population may burden states' economic growth. As it turns out, a state's own age may also be an economic burden.That's the suggestion from researcher William Bergman, a former financial markets analyst for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and now director of research for the state debt transparency organization Truth in Accounting. Analyzing data from its annual " Financial State of the States report, Bergman found that the longer a state has been around, the more likely it is to have financial problems.The primary driver behind this correlation, says Bergman, is politics.In addition to skewing older, states that have the worst financial conditions also tend to be more gerrymandered and in many cases have a higher-than-average share of lawyers in its population. Both of these characteristics can indicate a thriving environment for special interest groups, which suppress economic vitality, according to landmark research by economist Mancur Olson in the 1980s.This certainly appears to be the case in Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania -- all admitted to the Union between 1787 and 1818. All six states have a high rate of lawyers per capita and are ranked by the geospatial software firm Azavea as home to some of the more gerrymandered congressional districts. These same states also rank in the lower third for taxpayer burden, according to Truth in Accounting. Louisiana's debts, at one end of the spectrum, tallied up to more than $15,000 per taxpayer. At the other end, New Jersey's equaled more than $61,000 per taxpayer.These states, says Bergman, have allowed special interests groups to run up debt in the form of unfunded pension and retiree health-care benefits. These debts, in turn, are hurting economic growth. "You see more often the tendencies to borrow for these special interest groups as opposed to raising taxes," he says. "They're kicking the can down the road and thus putting the burden on taxpayers."The experience of these older states should serve as a "warning" to newer ones. "It shows the importance of respecting the public purse," says Bergman, "we all have a common interest in it."In other words, younger states like Idaho and Utah, both admitted to the Union in the 1890s, aren't necessarily doomed to face the same fate. As it stands, they both have a taxpayer surplus and relatively low levels of political machinery by traditional economic measures.Of course, there are some outliers to Bergman's findings. Hawaii, one of the newest states in the Union, already ranks among the bottom for taxpayer burden thanks to the roughly $18 billion it owes in unfunded pension and retiree health-care benefits.All told, 40 states have some kind of debt burden on taxpayers, much of it due to unfunded pension and retiree health-care liabilities. While some amount of debt is normal and even healthy for states, 10 states were given failing grades from Truth in Accounting because of their repeated failure to balance budgets and address growing financial burdens.Idaho This summer, the New York City health department embarked on a public awareness campaign that departed from its usual reminders to use sunscreen and stay hydrated. For the first time, the department began warning New Yorkers about the health risks of smoking hookah.The public service announcements followed a February report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that found hookah use increasing among the citys teenagers, rising from 9 percent who reported smoking hookah at least once in the previous 30 days in 2008 to 13 percent in 2014. The citys ad campaign warns that one hour of hookah use exposes the smoker to as much carbon monoxide and tar as smoking 10 cigarettes.Hookah bars, where lounging patrons puff on long-stemmed water pipes that burn tobacco or an herbal blend called shisha, have been popping up all over the country, raising increasing concerns in the public health community not only that they foul indoor air with harmful substances but also that they are a gateway to use of cigarettes and other forms of tobacco. People have this misconception that hookah is healthier, so we saw the need to have greater awareness around it and its risks, says Kim Kessler, New York Citys assistant commissioner for chronic disease prevention. While weve made great progress in cigarette use in recent years, rates of smoking are going up in other areas like e-cigarettes and hookah, particularly among young people.Hookah bars are often able to circumvent indoor smoking laws because of cities loopholes allowing tobacco-free shisha. New York City has such a loophole, but when researchers from the New York University School of Medicine visited eight hookah bars in the city in 2014, they found tobacco at all of them.Other concerns about hookah bars have led to new regulations. In Charlotte, N.C., they faced scrutiny in 2015 after the air in one bar was found to have four times the permissible level of carbon monoxide. In response, the city required better ventilation and had its firefighters start carrying carbon monoxide detectors.That same year, then-Seattle Mayor Ed Murray went on a campaign against his citys hookah bars, linking them to neighborhood crime and vowing to close all of them. Murray backed off after the East African community that frequents the hookah bars protested, calling the shutdowns racist. But the mayor ordered hookah bars to operate more like members-only private clubs and work with the city to ensure that their hookahs were tobacco-free.That issue -- what is actually being smoked in the pipes -- is a big concern just about everywhere. We rely for the most part on public complaints or public reports, along with voluntary enforcement and social enforcement, Marcus Plescia, who was Mecklenburg Countys health director in 2015, toldEven before this summers public awareness campaign, New York City was moving far beyond voluntary enforcement. A package of bills passed in 2017 clamping down on tobacco and e-cigarette retailing also carried several regulations aimed at hookah bars, including requiring them to obtain yearly permits, post health warnings and get better ventilation systems; prohibiting them from expanding or moving locations; and ordering them to bar anyone under 21.More than any other factor, the regulatory moves were motivated by fear of losing ground in the citys campaign against teenage tobacco use. Hookah, says Kessler, does pose a threat to the progress weve made in cigarette use in youth. Dressed in jailhouse orange, with hands and feet shackled, Jimi Ray Haynes stood up in a Santa Cruz County courtroom and pleaded guilty to a felony weapons charge.Haynes, then 32, had spent the previous two weeks in jail detoxing from methamphetamine and heroin. The judge told Haynes he could serve part of his yearlong jail sentence in a drug treatment program rather than locked in county jail.Eileen Jao, an assistant district attorney, quickly interjected: It has to be residential, not outpatient, she said. Its residential or jail.Jao wanted the terms to be crystal-clear. Because of a new county policy that took effect at the beginning of the year, treatment for low-income residents like Haynes, with drug-related criminal charges, must be decided by clinicians and providers not the court. Judges can order whatever they want in terms of treatment, and prosecutors can block designated treatment they deem too risky, but essentially the type and length of treatment deemed appropriate is out of their hands.When conflicts arise between what the court orders and the providers decide, felons can languish in jail with no treatment at all.Court-ordered rehab is increasingly falling out of fashion in California as Santa Cruz and 18 other counties begin to treat addiction like any other health condition with the Medicaid program relying on evidence-based practices and trained personnel to make decisions on care. That has upended the status quo for judges, attorneys and defendants who often had agreed to residential treatment in lieu of jail or at least to reduced sentences so inmates could get that treatment.The California program appears to be unique in many respects, but other states including Utah, Indiana, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey and Massachusetts also have sought federal permission to experiment with innovations in Medicaid-funded drug treatment.In California, these changes are a tough pill to swallow for the criminal justice system, said Gavin ONeill, drug court manager for the Alameda County Superior Court, which implemented the policy in July. In the past, some judges and attorneys have been able to use residential treatment as a sanction and long-term monitoring mechanism, as well as a chance to address the underlying drug problem, said ONeill. That option has been shut down.Proponents say that evidence-based treatment will lead to better outcomes and that residential care should be reserved for those with the most severe addictions. Under Medi-Cal, it is limited to 90 days.From the providers perspective, the judge ordering services has always been a problem, said Katie Mayeda, a Santa Cruz County Superior Court clinician. Judges have good intentions to put someone in treatment rather than in jail, but they dont know the whole story. They dont work in that realm theyre not a clinical professional.Advocates of the new approach a Medicaid-funded pilot program that eventually is expected to be implemented in 40 California counties say residential treatment is the most expensive and invasive option, and in many cases, outpatient treatment works as well, if not better.If clinicians dont approve residential treatment and prosecutors or judges wont allow a release to outpatient treatment, the case can stall and felons become doomed to spend more time in jail.Nearly three months into his jail stay, Haynes still was waiting for someone from a drug treatment program even to evaluate him, let alone determine his care plan. In the meantime, Haynes said, he received no drug treatment.Because of the policy change, some prosecutors say they are less likely to accept anything but jail time."We are more inclined to just say, Hey, put him in the custody of the sheriff, and not worry trying to treat the substance abuse problem, said Santa Cruz County assistant district attorney Archie Webber. If you want to do a program, you can do it on your own time.Webbers rationale: He doesnt trust the care providers, drug treatment organizations that contract with the county, to act in the interest of the state.We dont want someone else to come in after us a care provider, who hasnt been in the process and make those decisions for us, Webber said.The new policy, operating now in a third of the states 58 counties, stems from the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. That increased access to health care, including drug treatment, to the more than 13 million low-income adults in California who qualify for Medicaid.In the past, counties had to use general funds or block grants to pay for court-ordered drug treatment for those who couldnt afford it. Now, counties can pay for a range of drug treatment services outpatient, medication-assisted, detox and residential through Medicaid, or Medi-Cal, as it is known in California. But the new policy requires everyone seeking residential treatment to have a clinical assessment to determine whether that setting suits their diagnosis.The counties that have begun providing drug treatment services under the so-called Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System represent nearly 75 percent of the states more than 13 million Medi-Cal enrollees, according to the California Health Care Foundation. (California Healthline is an editorially independent publication of the California Health Care Foundation.) The rules on clinical decisions apply to everyone, not just inmates.Proponents hope all 58 California counties will come on board eventually, although the pilot Medi-Cal program is approved only through 2020, after which the federal government would have to reapprove the experiment.Los Angeles County implemented the new Medi-Cal program just over a year ago and indicates it is running relatively smoothly.L.A. County got in front of it early on, said Albert Senella, president and CEO of Tarzana Treatment Centers. Treatment is now driven by medical necessity.But educating the courts on the new procedures can be a time-consuming process, and experts say it may take months or longer in some counties before the new rules sink in.In addition, counties and drug treatment providers say they have been weighed down by an administrative and staffing burden unlike anything theyve seen before.It has been a tremendous amount of work, said Senella. A huge sea change in the way things are done.Some offenders say delays in receiving care are tough.Haynes said he just wanted treatment, ideally in a residential setting.Ive tried the whole white-knuckling sobriety thing, said Haynes, who has a 10-year history with methamphetamine and heroin addiction. The only measure of success Ive had being clean and sober was in a residential drug treatment program.He would like to be able to visit with his wife and three children in a setting more pleasant than jail. Haynes wasnt much older than his school-age kids are now when he visited his own father, then behind bars. He shook his head as if to erase the image.I dont want my kids to see me in jail, he said.Haynes was released from jail this summer. Court records say his probation was revoked on July 17 after he was discharged from a drug treatment program for defiance and non-compliance.He was re-arrested and, as of late last month, jailed in Fresno County. Alaska Connecticut Illinois Kansas Maine New York Rhode Island In about one-sixth of the 36 governors races this fall, the presence of a third-party candidate could stir things up -- especially for the Democrats.While the national political environment and landscape of vulnerable seats tilts in their favor this year , it is Democrats who have the most to lose from third-party candidacies.Only in Rhode Island, where a strong supporter of Donald Trump is on the ballot, is a third-party candidate a threat to Republicans' chances of winning.It's hardly unprecedented for third-party candidates to play a role in gubernatorial races. Four years ago -- the last time so many states elected a governor -- five states had credible third-party candidates. But the impact could be even bigger this year, with more states featuring independent candidates polling in the high single digits.Below is a rundown of the states where independents could impact the outcome.Our rating categories are safe Republican, likely Republican, lean Republican, tossup, lean Democratic, likely Democratic and safe Democratic. For an interactive version of our ratings map, and the latest news in each race, click here Independent Gov. Bill Walker, who was first elected in 2014 after he teamed up with the Democratic nominee to run as a ticket against the incumbent Republican governor, is in a precarious position in this solidly Republican state.His approval ratings are mediocre, making his reelection tricky even in a two-party race. But it's harder still in a three-way race, where two candidates are poised to split the center-left vote.Walker is facing Democrat Mark Begich, a former Anchorage mayor and U.S. senator, and Republican Mike Dunleavy, an education administrator.Some Democrats had wanted Begich to drop out to clear Walker's path and not split the non-conservative vote, but he rebuffed their suggestions.Dunleavy, in the meantime, won the Republican primary handily, defeating more moderate candidates and consolidating the conservative base. That base may be enough to carry the race with as little as 34 percent of the vote.Dunleavy "is well-financed, and his issue positions are well-attuned to economic and social conservatives," says Gerald McBeath, a University of Alaska political scientist.In a poll conducted Sept. 21-25, Dunleavy led with 44 percent support, Begich gained 29 percent backing and Walker earned nearly 23 percent.We currently rate this race lean Republican.Democrat Ned Lamont and Republican Bob Stefanowski are facing off to succeed Democrat Dannel Malloy, whose popularity is weak due to persistent economic and fiscal challenges. A third-party candidate, Oz Griebel, is on the ballot, and while he has struggled in fundraising, he has been invited to a gubernatorial debate alongside the two major party nominees.By taking an outsider's pragmatic approach, Griebel is hoping to snare voters in this blue state who are uncomfortable voting for a Republican, but who are disaffected after eight challenging years under Democratic control.Griebel, a former Republican, is running on a ticket with a former Democrat. An August Quinnipiac poll had Griebel at 4 percent, drawing equally from Democratic and Republican voters. Lamont has had recent polling leads of between nine and 16 points.We rate the contest a tossup.Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner is fighting for his political life against Democratic nominee J.B. Pritzker. It doesn't help that a pair of third-party candidates -- Sam McCann on the conservative party line, and Grayson Jackson on the Libertarian line -- are in the race as well.In an August NBC Marist poll, the two third-party candidates combined for 10 percent of the vote. This suggests that they are eating into Rauner's base and hampering the incumbent's ability to win a second term.However, Pritzker's lead in polls, which ranges from 30 percent to 46 percent, is larger than the combined third-party share of the vote, so their presence on the ballot may not matter in the end.We rate the race lean Democratic.The controversial tenure of former Republican Gov. Sam Brownback gave Democrats an opening this year to flip the Kansas governorship. And few, if any, gubernatorial victories this fall would be sweeter to Democrats than defeating Kris Kobach, the Kansas secretary of state who has been a champion of voter identification laws and tough immigration policies.But the presence of independent Greg Orman threatens Democratic hopes.In the Republican primary, Kobach defeated Gov. Jeff Colyer -- who was elevated to the governorship after Brownback accepted a post with the Trump administration -- by just a couple hundred votes.On the Democratic side, state Sen. Laura Kelly had an easier time, winning the primary with 52 percent of the vote. Kelly is relatively moderate, and in a head-to-head matchup against Kobach, she would have a solid shot at winning. Kobach is so conservative that he is considered unpalatable to more moderate Kansas Republican voters.However, Orman, who ran a tough but ultimately unsuccessful race as an independent against long-serving U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts in 2014, complicates Kelly's path. Orman has deep pockets, and polls over the summer have shown him pulling between nine to 12 percentage points against his rivals. That's a big deal since the same polls show Kelly and Kobach neck and neck."The key question is how many independent and moderate Republican votes will Orman take, and will centrist Republicans really be able to vote for Kobach?" says University of Kansas political scientist Burdett Loomis. "Without Orman, this is a tossup race, but with him, it leans Republican."Bob Beatty, a Washburn University political scientist, agrees. "All options are open," he says. "Orman could win outright, he could play the spoiler or he could make a lot of noise but with minimal results. His candidacy has totally blown up a race that without him would have been pretty easy to peg."We rate the race lean Republican.Maine has two independent candidates who could make a difference in November: Terry Hayes, the state treasurer, and Alan Caron, a policy researcher.They will face Republican nominee Shawn Moody, a businessman who ran as an independent in 2010. "The people who supported [Republican Gov. Paul] LePage have shifted over to Moody, who frames himself as LePage with a smile," says Howard Cody, an emeritus political scientist at the University of Maine. "He's popular with the Republican base."On the Democratic side, Janet Mills, the state attorney general who often battled the outgoing governor, is hoping to flip the state. Unfortunately for Mills, the two independents tend to draw from the center-left portion of the electorate.While Maine has had independent governors before -- including Angus King, now a U.S. senator running for reelection this year as a Democratic-caucusing independent -- Hayes and Caron currently look more likely to play the role of spoiler than victor. In a Suffolk poll taken in August, Mills and Moody were essentially tied at 39 percent each, with Hayes and Caron collectively drawing about 7 percent of the vote - not enough to win, but more than enough to spell the difference in the election.Democrats are high on Mills as a candidate, but support from party stalwarts won't be enough by itself, experts say. "If Mills is limited to the Democratic base, she can't win," Cody says. "She has to reach out to the 20 percent to 25 percent of voters in Maine who are not Democrats or Republicans or leaning toward one of the parties."We rate this race a tossup.Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo is the favorite to win a third term over Republican nominee Marc Molinaro. Still, there's a chance that former Syracuse Mayor Stephanie Miner could be a headache for Cuomo.Miner, a former state Democratic co-chair, is no fan of the incumbent governor. "In theory, Miner could become a 'safe place' for people who want to lodge a protest vote but can't fill in the box for a Republican," says Lawrence Levy, the executive dean of Hofstra University's National Center for Suburban Studies. "But the likelihood of her making a difference is pretty remote. It would have to be a very close race against the Republican and that doesn't look like it's going to happen."Another possibility is that Cynthia Nixon -- the actress who lost to Cuomo in the Democratic primary -- could be tapped to run for the left-leaning Working Families Party. If that happens, it could drain liberal support from Cuomo's column.A July Quinnipiac poll found that a general election that included the four candidates would break out with Cuomo at 43 percent, Molinaro at 23 percent, Nixon at 13 percent and Miner at 1 percent.We rate the contest likely Democratic.Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo is facing a rematch against Republican Allan Fung, her 2014 opponent.Republicans have been able to win the Rhode Island governorship with some regularity, and the current popularity of Republican governors elsewhere in New England -- especially in such solidly blue states as Massachusetts and Vermont -- could make Rhode Island a ripe target for a GOP takeover.That is, if it were not for an independent candidate, Joe Trillo, who ran Trump's campaign in the state in 2016 after serving as a state legislator for a decade and a half, including a stint as House minority whip. Trillo's presence on the ballot is a blow to Republican chances.A late July WPRI/Roger Williams University poll had Trillo at 6 percent -- greater than the two-point margin between Raimondo and Fung. A September survey by the same pollster had Raimondo, newly victorious in her party's primary, up by seven points over Fung, with Trillo at 7 percent. "Trillo's name recognition is increasing and his numbers may trend upward," says Valerie Endress, a professor of political communication at Rhode Island College. "A three-way race with an independent candidate makes it a more difficult road for the GOP."We rate the race a tossup. GOP Challenges in Oregon Governor's Race In the blue states of Connecticut and Oregon, Republicans have fighting chances at winning governors' offices currently held by Democrats.In Connecticut, outgoing Democrat Dannel Malloy is one of the least popular governors in the country , with an approval rating of around 20 percent. He's raised taxes substantially, yet the state faces a budget shortfall in the neighborhood of $2 billion. Connecticut remains wealthy, but it's been shedding jobs and population as job creation has lagged well behind the nation as a whole."Structurally, it is indeed possible for the Republicans to take the governorship," says Matt Hennessy, a Democratic consultant in Connecticut. "Malloy is actually less popular than Trump, which is really saying something."The race to replace Malloy is between two businessmen. Republican Bob Stefanowski has served as an executive with companies including General Electric and UBS, while Democrat Ned Lamont is a telecommunications company owner and investor.If you doubt a blue state like Connecticut would elect a Republican in a Democratic year, look around the neighborhood. Republican Govs. Charlie Baker of Massachusetts, Phil Scott of Vermont and Chris Sununu of New Hampshire are all favored to win second terms . Rhode Island Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo holds a single-digit polling lead over Republican Mayor Allan Fung in their rematch. And in Maine, the race to succeed GOP Gov. Paul LePage is a tossup.In Connecticut, Republicans have steadily been gaining ground on Malloy's watch. A decade ago, Democrats held a 114-37 majority in the state House and a 24-12 advantage in the state Senate. In 2016, however, Republicans tied the state Senate and came within four narrow losses of a House majority."I honestly believe that in this state, it's really about how government policy is impacting local people here in Connecticut," says J.R. Romano, who chairs the state GOP. "It's getting harder and harder to be an average hard-working family in this state, and that's a direct result of Dan Malloy's policies. The cost of living is rising. Your taxes are rising."For that reason, Romano says Democratic plans to make the governor's race all about President Trump aren't going to work.Democrats aren't so sure. "What we're hearing at the doors is a lot about Trump," says Lori Pellitier, president of the Connecticut AFL-CIO.Stefanowski, who had not previously been active in politics, took 29 percent of the August primary vote in the five-way Republican field. Like many GOP gubernatorial candidates this year, he prevailed by pledging allegiance to the president."Stefanowski was clear to say he'd give Trump an A and would welcome him to Connecticut," Pelletier says. "He even got support from an illustrious tweet of the commander-in-chief." (Trump endorsed Stefanowksi on Twitter after the primary.)Previous Republican governors of Connecticut have appealed to voters by taking liberal-to-moderate stances on issues such as abortion or environmental protections, says Hennessy. Stefanowski hasn't taken that approach. He argues the Affordable Care Act hasn't helped Connecticut; he opposes an increase in the minimum wage; and he has proposed phasing out the state income tax, which even some Republicans have described as a fantasy.The two candidates have run ads attacking each other over the issue of payday loans, which can trap poor people in a cycle of debt. Stefanowski served as CEO of a payday lender, while Lamont's wife held investments in a payday lender."Hes telling lies about my wife," Lamont complained on Tuesday Lamont, who spent a total of $20 million on his previous campaigns for governor and U.S. Senate, has devoted $8 million of his own money to this year's race so far, including an infusion of $5 million this week.The race may come down to which battlefield of issues the campaign is fought on, Hennessy says. If Stefanowski is able to keep the focus on taxes, that could be problematic for Lamont."Ned Lamont is going to raise your taxes, and that's what people do not want," says Romano.But Hennessy argues that if Lamont is able to get voters focused on other issues, the state's Democratic tilt -- and the fact that the party's candidates are favored in federal races throughout the state -- could help him overcome Malloy's unpopularity."Ned has embraced a lot of key Democratic proposals on a basic minimum wage, on health care," Hennessy says. "He's checked all the boxes, in that sense."The contours of the race in Oregon are different. There, GOP state Rep. Knute Buehler is running against Democratic incumbent Gov. Kate Brown by presenting himself as a moderate. Most prognosticators give Brown the edge, butchanged its rating of the race last week to tossup.Buehler "leads with a moderate independent voice," says Monica Wroblewski, Buehler's campaign communications director. "He didn't support President Trump."As in Connecticut, Buehler is complaining that taxes are too high. Meanwhile, Brown's approval ratings have been in the low 40s, with nearly as many Oregonians disapproving of her job performance. Brown's cap-and-trade proposal has gone nowhere, and the Department of Human Services has been hit with numerous complaints over the past couple of years for its handling of the foster care system."If you go half an hour outside of Portland, people feel they're ignored by this administration because it all caters to this liberal pocket," says Wroblewski.A poll released last week by an Ohio-based firm showed Brown ahead by just a single percentage point. But a poll conducted by a Portland-based firm last month showed Brown with a 10-point lead.That's typical of recent Oregon elections: A poll will often come out showing that Republicans are closer than expected. But no Republican has been elected governor of Oregon since 1982. Out-of-state pollsters tend to miss some of the nuances of Oregon politics, says Jim Moore, a political scientist at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Ore. More voters are registered "unaffiliated" than Republican, but their turnout rate runs 20 to 30 percent behind those of Republicans and Democrats. Pollsters sometimes give the unaffiliated too much weight, Moore says.Buehler, meanwhile, has a "whack-a-mole" problem, Moore suggests. He's presenting himself as a moderate on issues like abortion and immigration to appeal to unaffiliated voters, while at the same time trying to keep more conservative Republican voters on board. Democrats accuse him of talking out of both sides of his mouth, espousing different positions to different audiences, or least shading things differently now than he did during the primary campaign."It's created navigational problems for Buehler," say Christian Gaston, communications director for the Brown campaign. "He's trying to position himself in the middle of the electorate, but he's also trying to communicate to his base, which is very supportive of Trump." Jason Kander, citing depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, is dropping out of the Kansas City mayor's race.Kander posted a message on his campaign website and Facebook page saying that in the 11 years since leaving Afghanistan as an Army intelligence officer, he has experienced depression, nightmares and suicidal thoughts. He said he needed to abandon the mayoral race, in which he was seen as a front-runner to win the 2019 contest, to focus on his mental health."Instead of dealing with these issues, I've always tried to find a way around them," Kander said. "Most recently, I thought that if I could come home and work for the city I love so much as its mayor, I could finally solve my problems. I thought if I focused exclusively on service to my neighbors in my hometown, that I could fill the hole inside of me. But it's just getting worse."Kander's exit from the campaign to succeed Mayor Sly James upends the crowded race as much as his entrance did in June."It certainly comes as a surprise," said Quinton Lucas, a Kansas City Council member who is running for mayor. "My heart goes out to him. Jason has been a friend for years. I hope it's an example other veterans can follow to seek help."Kander is also stepping back from day-to-day involvement with Let America Vote, a voting rights advocacy organization he founded last year.His decision to quit the mayor's race appears to have coalesced last week."Last Tuesday, I found out that we were going to raise more money than any Kansas City mayoral campaign ever has in a single quarter," Kander's announcement said. "But instead of celebrating that accomplishment, I found myself on the phone with the (Veterans Affairs) Veterans Crisis Line, tearfully conceding that, yes, I have had suicidal thoughts. And it wasn't the first time."Kander said he first contacted the VA for help about four months ago.Kander was seen as a clear favorite to win the mayor's race next April. His candidacy, announced in June, had immediate effect: Jolie Justus, a Kansas City Council member and former Missouri state senator, pulled out of the mayoral race and instead focused on re-election to her 4th District council seat.Justus says she is getting "signficant requests" from supporters and friends to get back in the race. She said she'll move pretty quickly toward a decision."The mayor's race is up and running, so I'll probably make a decision within the next week or so."Justus said in the immediate term she's trying to support Kander, who elbowed her out of the race with his surprise entry.The immediate repercussions from Kander's withdrawal on the race were not clear on Tuesday."It will work itself out," Lucas said. "For today, I'm thinking of Jason."Filing for the mayor's race opens in December and closes in January, giving plenty of time for aspirants to get back into the race."I feel like if someone has a personal issue, they need to attend to it," said Scott Wagner, a Kansas City Council member running for mayor. "If the reason given was true, it shows once again the importance of mental health in dealing with our veterans. I think it takes courage for him to do this."Kander's service in the military has been part of his political profile. After one term as Missouri secretary of state, Kander ran in 2016 for U.S. Senate as the Democratic nominee against Republican incumbent Roy Blunt. Kander's campaign famously featured a television advertisement in which he assembles a military rifle blindfolded.Kander narrowly lost his contest against Blunt in a year when most Democrats in statewide races were pummeled and Donald Trump carried Missouri by 19 points over Hillary Clinton. Kander's performance, coupled with an effervescent personality, made him a leading progressive personality on cable television news shows.Kander was frequently mentioned as a possible candidate for Missouri governor, Congress or even for the White House. That's part of what made his decision to run for mayor all the more surprising.James, who cannot run again due to term limits, applauded Kander for sharing his story and taking care of his health."His track record of outstanding service and tireless work ethic have raised the bar for many who aspire to serve in elected office," James, who served in the Marines, said in a statement. "I applaud his bravery, and will do all I can to help him through his healing process."Kander joined the Army National Guard in 2003 when he was a law student at Georgetown University, and volunteered for combat duty after graduation. According to his military service record, Kander was stationed at Camp Eggers, Afghanistan, from Oct. 2, 2006, to Jan. 1, 2007.At the time, he was a second lieutenant, an intelligence officer responsible for "the collection of political intelligence and the development of timely strategic and operational assessments on issues and personalities within the government of Afghanistan," his service record said.Kander told The Star in 2016 that he was never involved in firefights nor came under mortar or rocket fire. But his military records say his work "resulted in arresting enemies and saving lives" and he was "one of the only officers to volunteer for force protecting duty."That meant manning a gun on missions, which put him at risk at a time when the Pentagon was stretched for personnel and materiel because it was fighting wars in both Afghanistan and Iraq."They (politicians) had made our maneuvers more dangerous," he told supporters at the opening of his Kansas City campaign office when he ran for Senate in 2016. "And that's why I came back and started running for office."In Kander's autobiography, "Outside the Wire," he draws on the emotions of his time in Afghanistan, describing his first trip on a Humvee in Afghanistan."I felt fearful, way beyond anything I'd ever felt before," he wrote. "This was, for the first time in my life, the raw, physical fear of being killed."And while Kander noted he didn't have the same experiences as those who were in combat, he hinted in his book at the difficulty military experiences could pose."I was overseas for just a few months, I was never blown up or shot at, and I didn't have to kill anyone, yet it was still the most formative few months of my life, followed by some of the biggest emotional challenges I've faced," Kander wrote.Kander in his message did not rule out the possibility of a future in public life."I'll close by saying this isn't goodbye," Kander said. "Once I work through my mental health challenges, I fully intend to be working shoulder to shoulder with all of you again. But I'm passing my oar to you for a bit. I hope you'll grab it and fight like hell to make this country the place we know it can be." Description GIS 03 October, 2018: Poverty as Cultural Legacy: A reflection on the cultural resources of Mauritian Citizenship was the central theme of a talk held yesterday at Sir Harilal Vaghjee Hall in Port Louis at the initiative of the National Empowerment Foundation. Dr Jacques Rangasamy, M.B.E was the guest speaker who delivered the talk in the presence of the Minister of Social Integration and Economic Empowerment, Mr Alain Wong Yen Cheong, and other several personalities. In his address, Minister Wong recalled that the talk is a key event which is set to kick-start the calendar of activities marking the 2018 International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, which is annually celebrated on 17 October. He also introduced Dr Rangasamy whose experience in the field of multicultural arts, he said, provides relevance on the delicate issue of poverty in Mauritius, a multicultural country with people of diverse backgrounds. In his presentation, Dr Rangasamy pointed out that the question of poverty should be addressed within a cultural framework given that it is linked with cultural legacy. Poor people are victims of a vicious circle which contributes to a sense of defeatism. There is a cultural factor involved between people taking advantage of opportunities and those who remain rooted in their situation, he said. The speaker referred to influential personalities such as Martin Luther King, Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela who have devoted themselves to promote equality and human rights. He elaborated on various factors in the fight against poverty which are namely a sense of presence, a sense of self, a sense of belonging and a sense of the future in the present. With regard to promoting the rich cultural history of Mauritius, Dr Rangasamy underlined the need for its inclusion in the school curriculum for a better understanding of the ancestral linkages and the different cultures in our country. Dr Rangasamy, is a Mauritian national who is currently living in the United Kingdom. He has been awarded an M.B.E for his academic and curatorial work in the field of Multicultural Arts. He has graduated from the Chelsea and Winchester Colleges of Art before embarking on postgraduate studies at the Royal College of Art where he obtained his PhD. He has also lectured in universities in London, Oxford, Manchester, Portugal, Italy, France and the United States. International Day for the Eradication of Poverty This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Declaration by the United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution 47/196 of 22 December 1992, of 17 October as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. It also commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Call to Action by Father Joseph Wresinski who inspired the observance of October 17 as the World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty and the recognition by UN as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. The theme for 2018 is Coming together with those furthest behind to build an inclusive world of universal respect for human rights and dignity. GIS 02 October, 2018: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death in Mauritius, accounting to 81% of mortality rate, said the Minister of Health and Quality of Life this morning in Pointe aux Piments. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death in Mauritius, accounting to 81% of mortality rate, said the Minister of Health and Quality of Life this morning in Pointe aux Piments. In his address at the opening of a validation workshop of a project entitled National Assessment of Health Systems Challenges and Opportunities for better NCD outcomes, Dr Husnoo cited the NCDs Survey 2015 which shows that 25% of the Mauritian population suffers from NCDs while in developed countries 10% of the population are affected by NCDs. Hence the need to re-assess the health system so as to support and accelerate improved NCDs outcomes, he cautioned. Dr Husnoo recalled that Mauritius has experienced rapid industrialisation and general improvements in living standards over the past decades along with epidemiological transition. This has resulted in a shift in the main causes of deaths from communicable to NCDs which has affected all segments of the population. This situation has compelled us to review and reorient our policies in a more desirable manner to meet the NCD Global Action Plan which calls for a 25% reduction in premature mortality by 2025, he said. The Minister reiterated Governments commitment to tackle NCDs and implement strategies and treatment for people affected by this epidemic. In a bid to subsist and enhance the delivery of services in the medium and long term to the population, it is important that the weaknesses and challenges in our health system are addressed, he pointed out. The challenges include medication, burden of an ageing population, technological innovation and treatment to infrastructural projects in our health systems, he added. Minister Husnoo underscored the need to re-engineer the entire health system ranging from service provision to financing, information generation, ensuring adequate supply of pharmaceuticals products, enhancing human resources to improving facility management and performance monitoring in a holistic and comprehensive manner. The WHO Representative, Dr Laurent Musango, underlined that NCDs are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Of 56.9 million global deaths in 2016, 40.5 million, or 71%, were due to NCDs. According to him, the leading causes of NCD deaths in 2016 were cardiovascular diseases (17.9 million deaths, or 44% of all NCD deaths), cancers (9.0 million, or 22% of all NCD deaths), and respiratory diseases, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (3.8 million of 9% of all NCD deaths). Diabetes caused another 1.6 million deaths, he added. In light of the growing burden of NCDs, and their significant economic and social impact, WHO Member States at the World Health Assembly in 2012 committed themselves to reduce premature mortality from NCDs by 25% by 2025. This is a landmark commitment towards accelerating health gains globally and in our region, he said. Referring to the assessment of health systems carried out in Mauritius, Dr Musango outlined that it will help in a participatory approach for healthy policy development adding that the report will be shared in the African region and SADC countries which share common epidemiological situation as in Mauritius. The Project With a view to having a more integrated and horizontal approach for Health on the path towards Universal Health Coverage, WHO Country Office in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Quality of Life, has conducted an in-depth analysis of National Assessment of Health Systems Challenges and Opportunities for Better Non-Communicable Disease Outcomes in Mauritius. The process was initiated in July 2017 and implemented over a one-year period. A multidisciplinary team was set up to carry out the exercise using a participatory approach under the supervision of the Ministry and WHO. a preliminary report was developed and presented to wider stakeholder group during a one-day workshop held last year in November. Building on the situation analysis, preliminary report and discussion held last year in the workshop, the report has been synthesised. During the validation workshop, stakeholders will validate the findings of the report and participants will have opportunity to provide their valuable feedback. Beaufort County, Brunswick, Carteret, Craven, Fayetteville Technical, James Sprunt, Johnston, Central Carolina, Lenoir, Coastal Carolina, Pamlico, Pitt, Richmond, Sampson, Wayne and Wilson community colleges. Fayetteville State University; Methodist University; Heritage Bible College; UNC Wilmington; East Carolina University; UNC Pembroke; University of Mount Olive and Barton College. (TNS) - College students affected by Hurricane Florence could be eligible for grants totaling $2.8 million that were announced Tuesday by the U.S. Department of Education.The grants would go to students who are deemed financially needy, with priority to those who are currently on Pell Grants. The emergency money was made available by the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant program.Nearly $2 million will go to students in North Carolina, and about $800,000 to students in South Carolina. The money is targeted at 38 community colleges and universities in counties designated for public assistance by FEMA.Our hearts go out to the thousands of students in North Carolina whose lives were impacted by Hurricane Florence, U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos said in a news release announcing the grants. The Department will continue to do all that it can to assist students, faculty and institutions in the Carolinas as they work to recover from this disaster.The grant money will go to 24 colleges and universities in Eastern North Carolina. They are:These grants are greatly needed and will go a long way in assisting students that can least afford to bear the devastating costs caused by Hurricane Florence, UNC President Margaret Spellings said in a statement Tuesday. We will continue to work with state and federal officials to ensure all of our affected students receive the support they need to recover in order to successfully continue their educational pursuits.Jane Stancill: 919-829-4559; @janestancill2018 The News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.)Visit The News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.) at www.newsobserver.comDistributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. It is not unusual that in the immediate aftermath of a disaster there could be public health orders issued. If the water system has been compromised, there could be a "Boil water before use" order issued. I'd like to recommend that you automatically issue a new order just prior to a disaster (if you have a warning) or immediately following a disaster impact. This would order the grounding of all amateur drones to keep them from flying.We know about the threat from drones interfering in wildfire operations, but we are going to need professional drone operators working to support disaster response and recovery and also the normal helicopter and other aviation support needed following a disaster.See this article,which speaks to how there was planned use for drones following Hurricane Florence.There will be infrastructure owners and operators working to identify damages and also help in the repair. Insurance companies have totally accepted the advantages of drones to do damage assessments for properties that they insure.As governments, we need to "clear the air" of amateur drones so that the "business" of disaster response and recovery can proceed.I will do some research on who has the authority to ground drone aircraft. Is it only the FAA, or can a local jurisdiction act?Claire Rubin shared the linked article above. (TNS) Researchers at Ohio's Wright State University are trying to develop what they call an Air Uber.The researchers are part of a group awarded a $2 million grant from the Ohio Federal Research Network to support research and development in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles. Wright States researchers, led by by associate professor Yong Pei, were awarded $150,000 for their part of the project, according to the university.We want to move the UAV from a small-payload platform to make it a more meaningful, higher payload, Pei said in a statement. So were starting from an existing commercially available aircraft and trying to add new capabilities that will eventually enable it to be autonomous.The goal of the project is to help develop pilotless drones that can ferry medical supplies or emergency first responders to disaster areas. Researchers believe the drones could be used for disaster relief and surveillance, according to WSU.Large unmanned drones that can carry passengers are thought to be the future of the drone industry. The city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is testing an unmanned, self-flying taxi, according to Wright State. (TNS) The Portland City Council on Tuesday cleared the way for the city to sue the Trump administration over new rules kneecapping cities' ability to recoup fees from telecom providers.By its action Tuesday, the city council added Portland to a growing list of cities, primarily on the West Coast, that are preparing to fight Donald Trump's Federal Communications Commission over what officials view as a needless freebie to cable companies."This is a property grab by the federal government," Mayor Ted Wheeler said at the Council meeting Tuesday, called last-minute to approve legal action.Telecom providers are hoping to deploy new 5G wireless technology in large American cities, promising superfast internet speeds to customers. But to do that, they need access to thousands of city-owned poles and fixtures, to which the companies would affix signal transmitters. Like other cities, Portland offers access to its infrastructure only if a company pays a fee.But two new FCC rulings threaten those arrangements. They in essence limit what cities may charge for access to their rights-of-way, Maja Haium, a deputy city attorney, told the mayor and commissioners at the special city council meeting Tuesday.Haium said city attorneys are "very concerned" about the FCC orders, which may expose Portland to lawsuits from the federal government for rule violations. Beyond the legal problems, Haium said the orders would "significantly undercut" city cable revenues. Under one new FCC order, cities may charge cable companies only $270 per year for each attachment of hardware to city property, Haium said, rather than the $3,000 per year that is typically assessed.Portland has been hugely accommodating to one internet provider in particular, Google Fiber, going so far as to waive fees that Comcast pays in exchange for Google providing internet service to nonprofits. At the time, Portland badly wanted another competitor in the high-speed internet and cable TV market.Google Fiber was on the cusp of launching service in Portland in July 2016 but abruptly scrapped those plans in part because it was considering less expensive, wireless alternatives to its wireline internet service.City officials may not feel a need to be so accommodating on 5G negotiations, because at least three wireless providers are likely to offer the exceptionally fast internet access.The city council adopted the FCC lawsuit resolution 4-0, with Commissioner Dan Saltzman absent.Wheeler said his administration will negotiate with telecom providers on placement of 5G technology, while also partnering with other cities "to protect the public's right" to manage city-owned property."We hold these public right-of-way assets in trust for the public and it's our duty to fight for the right to manage these assets," the mayor said.Commissioner Chloe Eudaly, who as transportation commissioner will play a key role in 5G negotiations, cast Trump's FCC as inept. She said the federal commission gave cable giants a "corporate giveaway" they should not have."I hope the next administration will appoint competent people to the FCC, who will help us solve problems instead of creating new ones," Eudaly said.Portland and the FCC are already at odds over net neutrality rules and local control of telecom policy. Local control is a fight Portland waged aggressively in the '90s but had largely abandoned during the Obama administration. A willingness to sue the FCC over 5G fees could be an indicator Portland has an interest in renewing its dispute. How IKE works The concerns (TNS) City leaders want to help residents and visitors find their way around in downtown Raleigh, N.C.But thats where the agreement seems to stop.Some City Council members were excited about proposed 8-foot tall interactive kiosks meant to give people real-time information and updates.Other worried theyd become too-bright, ever-changing advertisements, opening the door to digital billboards throughout downtown. And still others wondered if stationary kiosks were the best way to meet the citys needs.Ultimately, the City Council took no action Tuesday afternoon, instead asking that different ideas be brought back in 30 to 60 days.I am convinced we need better wayfinding in this city, said Council member Kay Crowder. I am just not convinced that this specific one is best the best route to take for Raleigh.Raleigh Mayor Nancy McFarlane and Council member Nicole Stewart were the sole members who expressed interest in moving forward, though council members Corey Branch and Dickie Thompson were absent.The kiosks, called IKE, were recommended by the Downtown Raleigh Alliance and discussed at several meetings last year. The alliance still wants to bring robust wayfinding downtown, CEO Kris Larson said, adding that the service IKE offers is second to none.Were still committed to helping stakeholders, visitors and residents discover all the great things in downtown, and this system does this, Larson said.Downtown Raleigh Alliance and IKE Smart City, the kiosk company, proposed 15 locations downtown with future locations in Glenwood South and at Shaw University.The kiosks display eight rotating images. Two would be reserved for the city and the alliance. The remaining six would be sold as ads, with the alliance receiving a portion of the revenue.When the kiosk is touched, the images are replaced by different buttons people can select. They could include a map to find nearby businesses and restaurants, bus routes and other transit options; a location for jobs postings; information about nearby shelters or clinics; a photo booth that sends an image to your phone; and surveys. The kiosks can count pedestrians, offer free wi-fi, monitor air quality and can include a phone for emergencies.IKE Smart City would likely pay the city a fee to puts its kiosks on public property, though the amount has not been set. There is no cost to taxpayers.The problem? The kiosks are considered signs not currently allowed under the citys ordinances, and the rules cant make an exception for one company, the city attorneys office advised the council Tuesday.Depending on the rules, other similar sized signs could also be installed on private property, which gave some council members pause.Crowder, who had a number of questions, thought the technology was cool but worried about intended consequences.We cant regulate the ordinance just for them, she said. And businesses that have the means could potentially come in and promote their businesses. And we lose some of the ability to control what is going on. It is a lot of light pollution. We are already dealing with a lot of those issues now.Some council members also asked questions about light bothering downtown residents, pedestrians or drivers.Jibran Shermohammed, director of development and corporate counsel for IKE Smart City, said the company would be willing to submit a light study, but that the lights on the 65-inch screen dim to match the ambient light. And the proposed locations arent near any residents who live on the first floor, he said. (TNS) On Wednesday, Oct. 3, cell phones nationwide will buzz with an alert from the National Wireless Emergency Notification System using a technology Laguna Beach officials already made sure they have access to when residents are in danger.This seaside town, which still remembers a devastating fire nearly 25 years ago that set ablaze 440 homes, became earlier this summer the first city in Orange County to get the authority to send out its own wireless emergency alerts.The city can access the same system that will be activated at 11:18 a.m. PST on Wednesday for the first time by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in coordination with the Federal Communication Commission for a nationwide test alert.The message will read: This is a test of the National Wireless Emergency Notification System. No action is needed.Theyve never tested the ability of the federal government to send text messages to everyones phones, said Jordan Villwock, who manages Laguna Beachs Emergency Operation Center and is chairman of the Orange County Emergency Management Organization.While the test will be a new concept for most cities in Orange County, Laguna Beach was authorized in May by the Department of Homeland Security, FEMA and California Governors Office of Emergency Services to send its own alerts.This is big because in an emergency and disaster, seconds matter, said Villwock. We can message quicker than the county.Previously, Laguna Beach city officials had to request an emergency alert be put out by the county, Villwock said. In a tsunami situation there could be multiple coastal towns involved. If each wanted to send an emergency alert, how would the county decide which goes out first? How would it contain specifics for each city.With the wireless notification system, Villwock and other city officials can send Laguna Beach residents clear directions that are specific to their needs in an emergency.During the 150-acre Aliso Fire that in June forced the evacuation of 1,500 residents from 600 homes in the Top of the World neighborhood, Villwock used Alert OC to send information to impacted residents with landlines or those who had signed up with the county system. Not all were notified.Now, with wireless emergency system, Villwock can broaden his message to those who have not signed up for the county service or are visiting in Laguna. The city annually has 6.5 million tourists.The wireless emergency alert system pings any cell phones within the citys cell service area.If someone is visiting from Boston and is at Main Beach and a tsunami occurs, the wireless alert will be sent to all cell phone regardless of the area code, Villwock said.Though the alerts can provide specific and detailed information more quickly, it does have some limitations. At present, the message can only transmit 90 characters. Legislation in Sacramento is addressing this and could expand it to 360 characters next year, Villwock said.Other emergency alert systems in place in Orange County include the traditional alert that interrupt TV and radios and Alert OC, which residents can sign up for by geographical location. Villwock encourages county residents to sign up at AlertOC.com and include their emails and cellphone numbers.Villwock has been working on the citys overall preparedness since 2015. Getting access to the wireless emergency alert system was a critical piece to Laguna Beach officials.We have several hazards living in Orange County that we need to prepare for, he said. Preparedness gives you peace of mind and makes your job easier if something happens.Last month, Villwock received the State Gold Award from the California Emergency Service Association for an evacuation and shelter-in-place plan he developed. The plan divides the city into 20 evacuation zones and provides a template, which includes emergency notifications, press releases and protocols, to guide public officials during an emergency. Villwocks plan will become a starting point for other cities to use.Earlier this year, Villwock also launched the Prepare Laguna Beach campaign challenging community members to create an emergency plan and kit. The goal is to reach 25 percent of the homes in Laguna by the Oct. 23, the anniversary of the 1993 Laguna Fire.On Monday, Lisa Kneedler, visiting from Hendersonville, N.C., walked along the promenade at Main Beach. Having just experienced Hurricane Florence, she was especially keen to know of Lagunas new wireless emergency notification system.Its absolutely critical, she said. Its something anyone can get during any hour of the day or night. Access to TV is an antiquated way of communication. Its much more accessible through cell phones. Everyone always has one on them. I think as a tourist here, its wonderful youre not excluded. The birds singing may no longer be the sign of a good day. Instead, it could mean youre being hacked.Researchers at Germanys Ruhr-Universitat in Bochum discovered that they could manipulate audio files of chirping birds in order to confuse the deep neural networks behind the voice assistants like Amazons Alexa and Googles Assistant. The manipulation is undetectable to human ears, but not to the microphones on these devices.Theoretically, this technique could be used for widespread hidden commands through mediums like TV commercials or radio broadcasts, hitting thousands of devices simultaneously. The research team did not test the devices ability to pick up the sounds when delivered through a broadcast; rather, they only played them so that the microphones could hear them clearly. Theres no telling how effective a broadcast attack would therefore be, but it definitely should not be ruled out as a possibility. Videos Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos. Security products are rapidly exploiting cloud delivery to provide more agile solutions. Machine learning is growing to perform simple security tasks and can elevate suspicious activity for human analysis. Cybersecurity Market One measure of just how important cybersecurity has become is to look at the number of startups that are investing in the field and where they are putting their money. CB Insights, a market intelligence firm, identified 106 cybersecurity startups in 2016, and mapped them to 11 main categories for security. Network and endpoint security: This is the largest startup security market, according to CB Insights, and includes firms that specialize in protecting enterprise computer networks from vulnerabilities. IoT/IIoT security: This category includes firms that provide protection for connected vehicles and industrial control systems. Threat intelligence: Startups in this category focus on targeting malicious activity on the deep Web to uncover potential threats and thwart attacks. Mobile security This security category includes firms that provide enterprise mobile threat protection for Android and iOS devices. Behavioral detection: Companies are developing technology to detect abnormal behavior in order to identify threats and manage risks. Cloud security This category of startups offers enterprise solutions for secure application delivery across all types of cloud technology. Deception security: Companies in this category can identify, deceive and disrupt attackers before they cause harm. Continuous network security Solutions in this category visualize network activity and response to attacks in real time. Risk remediation: Companies look for vulnerabilities in technologies, people and processes and then give recommendations on how to plug the gaps. Website security: Security firms offer website developers the ability to identify and police malicious website traffic. Quantum encryption Using the science of quantum mechanics, startup firms in this category offer encrypted wireless and data communications technology. Source: CB Insights IRAN, desperate to boost revenue following the return of sanctions imposed by the United States, has encouraged its hackers to pursue ransomware attacks on individuals and organizations, according to a report in the. Crypto-mining and theft is an opportunity to get cash for cash-strapped countries, Keith Alexander, former director of the National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command, told thein August.Back in the United States, the number of state and local governments and agencies that have suffered ransomware attacks has continued to grow. During the month of July alone,reported hacks in Riverside, Ohio, the state of Alaska and Washington, D.C. Earlier in the year, Atlanta suffered one of the worst ransomware attacks ever recorded against a government.These anecdotes provide a glimpse of what has become a tech problem that has grown so significant that it nearly overwhelms discussion of all other topics in the gov tech space. The explosion in cyberthreats and data breaches has fueled the growth of cyberdefense products and services. In 2004, the military and civilian cybersecurity market was a modest $3.5 billion, according to Cybersecurity Ventures, a research firm. Last year, organizations spent $120 billion on tools and products, and the market is expected to grow by an annual rate of 12 to 15 percent for the next three years.The cybersecurity market is also becoming more complex as it responds to the increasing number and type of attacks and threats. CB Insights, a market research firm, categorizes cybersecurity into 11 different markets, ranging from mobile and cloud security to threat intelligence, behavioral detection and even quantum encryption (see sidebar).Despite the fast-growing number and range of products and services, a few key trends are emerging when it comes to security and risk management. First, executives, both in the public and the private sectors, are finally aware that cybersecurity has a significant impact on the ability to achieve business goals and to protect an organizations reputation, according to a recent report by Gartner, the technology research firm. Legal and regulatory mandates to protect data are impacting business plans and have increased the emphasis on data liabilities.Gartner also highlights some specific trends as far as cybertechnology:Peter Firstbrook, an analyst with Gartner who co-authored the report, pointed out that traditional, on-premise cybersecurity tools suffered because updates were often delayed for months, if not years, not by the vendors, but because IT departments were slow to carry out what was a laborious maintenance task, resulting in gaps of coverage that hackers could easily exploit. But the cloud allows vendors to deliver security products that are more agile and easier to maintain, he said.The cloud also provides security vendors with a stream of data from their customers about the size, scope and type of threats and hacks in real time, allowing them to respond faster. They can provide services quickly, such as whether theres an intruder, what should be done next and how to solve the incident, said Firstbrook, who cited a service from CrowdStrike called Falcon Overwatch that does just that.The clouds ability to deliver high-end security without the need for a robust, on-premise, digital infrastructure gives it a special value in the public sector, especially among small government entities, explained Larry Ponemon, founder of the Ponemon Institute, a research think tank specializing in privacy, data protection and information security practices. It was once considered sacrilegious to put government data in the cloud, he said. But in reality, the cloud is even more safe than on-prem. Thats important, especially for small governments that dont have the resources for security.The emergence of the cloud has not only changed the agility of cybersecurity technology, but it has also impacted how hackers go after data, according to Firstbrook. As workloads and the productivity tools that run them have shifted to the cloud, the level of security from the major vendors, like Microsoft, has increased significantly. As a result, it has become harder for attackers to find a way to break into a PC and steal data. Instead, they go after your authentication, said Firstbrook. So, now they go after your [cloud] account by sending a phishing email, trick you into giving them your credentials and then lock you out and steal your data.To counter this kind of threat escalation, many organizations have stepped up their awareness training for employees, to educate them on how to spot a phishing campaign and avoid having their credentials stolen. But there are other things that governments can do. First, by using multi-factor authentication solutions, government can make it harder for the attacker to take over the account, especially when work is increasingly in the cloud. Multi-factor authentication forces the hacker to steal not just a login and password, but also the persons unique token.But Firstbrook said that organizations also need to monitor their accounts for suspicious activity. To do that requires threat analytics, part of a new trend that mirrors the growth of data analytics. In Georgia, threat analytics has evolved into an important cybersecurity strategy, according to Stan Gatewood, Georgias chief information security officer (CISO). We want to use threat analytics, user analytics and predictive analytics on all that data thats moving through our networks. We want to look at it and be able to predict what might happen.Its the same reason Florida is using threat analysis along with more traditional security practices, such as security information management (SIM) and firewalls. Threat analytics is about using the information you gather internally from SIMs and combining it with external sources as well as some of our own capabilities, said Thomas Vaughn, the states CISO. The data enriches what we are seeing in our environment and allows us to see threats that are impacting our environment, he said.Analytics can also be brought to bear on user behavior. Behavioral analytics considers how a user performs certain actions, and then by looking at the patterns created by certain individuals, we can determine if their actions may be dangerous for the network or may indicate something nefarious, he explained.Ponemon calls threat analytics one of the smart investments his organization sees happening in both the public and private sector as a way to thwart the rise in cybercrimes and -attacks. Threat intelligence or analytics is about getting more information from different sources about risk and threat vectors, what kinds of vulnerabilities an organization faces the big picture, he said. Analytic tools are very effective in helping organizations manage their security in a systematic way that optimizes the budget.To make the most of threat analytics, states have hired analysts to carry out this critical cybersecurity function. But as Gartners 2018 trend report shows, machine learning presents an opportunity to automate some of the simpler threat intelligence tasks, such as identifying a problem and then elevating suspicious events for human analysts to evaluate. Machine learning can solve multiple security issues, such as authentication, insider threat, malware and advanced attacks, according to Gartner. By 2025, machine learning is expected to be a normal part of security practices.This form of artificial intelligence, in which computers look for certain types of patterns, learn from them and refine their ability to detect anomalies in the data, is beginning to catch on. Ponemon Institute surveyed companies and found that 15 percent have either partially or fully deployed AI technology. Thats higher than we thought, said Ponemon, who pointed out that companies are increasing their purchases of AI security tools because they see value in those investments. However, the new technology is not replacing existing systems so much as augmenting them.Gartner warns that applying machine learning well enough so that it actually detects something new and different in terms of a threat can be difficult. There are gradients of machine learning, said Firstbrook. Its not a perfect identifier of a threat. The technology tends to cause more false alerts and false positives. For example, intruders can camouflage themselves in what appears to be normal activity. They can also evolve quickly and move in directions not addressed by existing machine learning algorithms.Gartner recommends machine learning for addressing narrow and well-defined problems, like classifying executable files. And it can help short-staffed security teams be more efficient, find threats they couldnt before, perform investigations more efficiently, and better anticipate future threats and risks.Gartners assessment of machine learning, AI and automation fits with how Floridas Vaughn views the technology. We tend to talk about AI and machine learning as topics unto themselves, but from my perspective, these technologies are enhancements that are being added to tools we already have, he said. Vaughn pointed out that his team has been doing correlation searches for a long time, using data from the states firewall as well as data from SIM and malware tools. But with AI and machine learning, he can automate that correlation effort. But it doesnt change the core functionality of the SIM when you do that, it just adds an enhancement.In August, a research team from IBM revealed during a Black Hat security conference in Las Vegas that it had built a machine learning program that could slip past some of the most sophisticated cyberdefense measures. According to Reuters, the announcement could foreshadow a new generation of AI software that can be trained to stay dormant until they reach a specific target, making them exceptionally hard to stop.Because the cost of AI software continues to drop and in some cases can be used for free the likelihood of some bad actors creating these sorts of next-generation cyberthreats is a growing concern, according to experts. For state and local governments, strained by lack of resources and already exhibiting a wide range in the quality of cybersecurity, a further leap in the sophistication of cyberthreats comes at a bad time.In 2017, the Ponemon Institute researched the challenges in public-sector IT operations and found that confidence in current IT performance has declined, with survey respondents pointing to an ongoing lack of tools, skills and resources that has degraded performance since 2016. One key point was that the majority of IT decision-makers and staff in the public sector are unsure or dont think the data sets they are using can solve multiple challenges, such as IT troubleshooting, service monitoring, security and mission analytics.While thats a problem that extends to all aspects of government IT, it is a particular challenge in IT security, where intruders and hackers are exploiting new vulnerabilities daily, making it vital that government build up the right resources against cyberattacks, whether they come from the next town, the next state or half way around the world, such as Iran or North Korea.Firstbrook laid out the dilemma government faces as cyberthreats grow while investments in the latest IT security products and strategies continue to stagnate. Government is stuck with legacy systems, so its unlikely they can wipe everything out and start over with an entirely new IT system that is entirely secure, he said. To counter that problem, government needs to be cognizant of how hackers, intruders and data thieves operate.Attackers go after vulnerabilities that are generally well known. Their business model is built around a known vulnerability, where there are lots of potential victims, he said. You dont have to be the Department of Defense [when it comes to cybersecurity], but you do have to be better than the next guy. You dont want to be an obvious victim. Thats how they get you. If you have an open or exposed vulnerability, you are an easy target. Ransomware on the Rise Symantecs pointed out that ransomware infections have steadily increased year-over-year since 2013, reaching a record high of 1,271 detections per day in 2016. However, in 2017 the number of new types of ransomware actually dropped, indicating a lack of new attack groups, according to the report. While the number of attacks may be fluctuating, ransomware is no longer considered just another tool for cybercriminals. According to Symantec, ransomware is morphing into a highly sophisticated weapon of choice. For example, attack groups, including nation-states, are using ransomware to raise revenue, such as badly needed foreign currency reserves. Ransomware has also been used as a decoy to steal data or to sow confusion and to delay an effective response, which was the case when hackers used it to disrupt the electrical grid in Ukraine. However, ransomware attacks continue to be costly. In 2017, costs from ransomware attacks reached $5 billion, 15 times the amount in 2015, according to CSO Online; damages from ransomware in 2019 are expected to hit $11.5 billion, according to Cybersecurity Ventures. In the early morning of March 22, a large ransomware cyberattack dealt a widespread blow to the city of Atlanta, the state capital and home to the nations busiest airport. The breach shuttered many devices at City Hall for about five days in an extensive infection. Elsewhere across the enterprise, it significantly impacted law enforcement temporarily returning police to writing incident reports by hand and costing the department access to nearly all its archived in-vehicle video.It also affected internal- and external-facing applications alike, forcing the manual processing of cases at Atlanta Municipal Court and stopping online or in-person payment of tickets, water bills, and business licenses and renewals. Out of caution, officials also disabled the Wi-Fi at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport until April 2.But while the citys multifaceted response won some praise from cybersecurity professionals and criticism from others, officials say their work is far from over and describe their posture as one of continued alertness and ongoing evaluation. The attack remains the subject of an ongoing federal criminal investigation.In May, the city restored its online water bill payment system, and the courts online bill payment option and docket boards returned in June. Any additional systems not yet restored, according to then-Interim CIO Daphne Rackley, are minor, lower-impact systems and are being closely scrutinized for their enterprise-level usability.Historically, the attack on Atlanta is considered the largest, most expensive cyberdisruption in city government to date. A troubling new trend may be part of the reason why the attack was so pervasive. Ransomware attacks have become more sophisticated, according to Kevin Haley, Symantecs director of product management for security technology and response. Bad actors who entered the arena when the crime rose in popularity about two years ago have since left it to criminals who are really good at what they do, he said.I think many of us think that sort of thing is just not going to happen to us. You may be one of the lucky ones, but its less and less likely that youre going to be one of the lucky ones every day, said Haley. Lower-level, lower-cost attackers are still out there, but the duration of service impacts in Atlanta and the potential cost of the citys response to the breach confirm a significant event occurred.Brian Calkin, vice president of operations at the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC), supports the sophistication theory. Attackers are well aware they can increase ransom demands proportionately relative to the amount of data they encrypt, he said.Marc Spitler, senior manager at Verizon Security Research and co-author of its most recent, also sees a disturbing trend toward more professional attacks aimed at government and other institutions. The breadth of the attack certainly shows that this was not your everyday, fire-and-forget, see-if-someone-takes-the-bait-style of attack, he said.Despite the breach, Atlantas 911 system and its emergency response were unaffected; and major utilities including water and sewer services continued unabated, said Roy Hadley, attorney at Adams and Reese LLP in Atlanta and legal counsel for cybersecurity controls to the city. This was possible because Atlanta retained the manual processes and institutional knowledge it needed to revert to traditional methods of service provision; and had plans in place to keep doing business while the incident unfolded, said Hadley and other city officials.As the city responded to the breach, business continuity and operational impact assessment were going on simultaneously, said Ria Aiken, Atlantas director of the Office of Emergency Preparedness.A lot of municipalities and private-sector counterparts get so caught up in the response effort that they dont recognize that as part of that response, you should immediately be thinking about how you are going to continue operations, she added.City officials quickly reached out to the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security and the Secret Service and experts in the private sector, including Secureworks, as well as incident response teams from Microsoft and Cisco. They also worked with staff from Atlanta Information Management (AIM) to identify the threat and its magnitude, and to protect the perimeter of the technology footprint.To keep residents and the media informed about the problem, the city utilized social media, adding a page to its website with information and news about the response and embedding video of two press conferences with Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. In the days immediately after the breach, C-level executives including Rackley and Chief Operating Officer Richard Cox joined Bottoms at press conferences that were livestreamed. Bottoms emphasized the uninterrupted availability of major public services and said residents information was not believed to have been compromised.Calkin said MS-ISAC, part of the not-for-profit Center for Internet Security, offered to assist the city but got no response because they were busy, he assumed. It sounds like they did everything that they could, leveraged all the resources both from the federal side and the private sector, he said.To be able to pull that off successfully and then end up with a mitigated incident at the end, I think, speaks a lot to their strategy on how theyre coordinating all of this. And how well its going, said Calkin, who characterized the breach as significant.City officials have said little about the type of attack leveled against the city, its origin and whether they met attackers demands. But earlier this year, Kennesaw State University Professor Andrew Green, who lectures on information security and assurance, reviewed screengrabs of information from an Atlanta NBC affiliate and said its likely the attack was based on a virus from the Samas or SAMSAM family, which typically encrypts information or portions of a disk. The bad actor or actors in this breach reportedly demanded payment of around $50,000 in bitcoin.Green criticized the city for withholding details about the attack. I find it disappointing that the city has chosen to stay mostly closed-mouthed about the incident, he said in an email. But Hadley pointed out that the criminal investigation led by the FBI is still ongoing, which limits what we can say in terms of the vectors and the actual variant of the malware and stuff like that. Atlanta City Council President Felicia Moore confirmed that the City Council hasnt received the extreme details either, but acknowledged the sensitivity of the situation.The day-to-day operations is the responsibility of the executive branch and to the extent that it had sensitive security information, I think you have to accept that you dont want to push for something that could jeopardize what theyre doing, Moore said.The cost of the citys response to the cyberattack is also unclear, Aiken said, in part because while the city has cyberinsurance, the reimbursement process is ongoing. Citing a confidential, seven-page document it obtained in collaboration with a television news station, thereported in August the citys cost could top $17 million, a figure Moore also mentioned. The last I heard, we were around $17 million, and it may be more. Its not a static, one-time thing. Its gone toward the emergency shoring-up, emergency procuring, for people, the company we hired, Moore said.The city council presidents characterization of Atlantas response as an ongoing, evolving matter reflects the citys actual strategy following the breach and for the foreseeable future, officials said.We really want to look holistically at our applications and really rationalize applications, Rackley said, noting that when the cyberattack happened, Atlanta had plans in place to migrate some applications, and had already moved its email systems and main enterprise resource planning system to the cloud.According to Hadley, not all services will be 100 percent until that evaluation is complete. As the threat continues to evolve, the citys posture, architecture and holistic view will continue to evolve, he said. Were restoring stuff but were also taking the opportunity to revalidate things and say OK, is there a better way, a safer way, a more secure way in order to continue to provide these functions to the citizens of Atlanta?When it comes to best practices to avoid a debilitating cyberattack, outright prevention should be a goal, said Verizons Spitler. IT officials must know their network architecture, invest in email infrastructure, and remain vigilant at all levels, scrutinizing emails and their attachments and looking for browser vulnerabilities. Multi-factor authentication is immensely valuable and segmentation is crucial, he added. Finally, state and local governments should have security zones segmented well within their own network to hinder bad actors from moving laterally should they open one device by brute force.If you cannot get on one system, then you cannot use that system to get on another one, said Haley, the Symantec executive, who also urged agencies to have a plan to do backups, to back up data regularly and make it secure; and to be prepared to quickly take infected machines off the network should an incident or breach occur. He recommended agencies consult guidelines from the National Institute of Standards and Technology.Calkin said governments should do regular user training and awareness, which are often overlooked, despite the fact that many compromises the organization has seen come from people receiving phishing emails and clicking on links or opening malicious attachments.Atlanta officials highlighted the importance of protecting government data and information, and of bringing discipline to an agencys approach to cybersecurity. According to Rackley, the citys approach to cybersecurity rests on three pillars: governance with compliance, vulnerability management and overall threat management. In addition to limiting the financial impact of an incident or breach, a cyberinsurance policy can serve as a road map and help an agency develop the sustained drive it needs to further its cybersecurity goals, Hadley said.Part of the takeaway would be yes, get insurance. But use that insurance and the process of getting it to take a more critical look at what youre doing as a municipality. Because it can help you figure out where you need to go, from a planning standpoint, from a resource standpoint, Hadley said.He also stressed the value in connecting with potential partners in the public and private sectors before an incident or breach occurs; and of identifying available resources before they may be critically needed.But equally valuable is the idea of taking a step back from the smaller day-to-day tasks of enterprise-level IT management and cybersecurity to see the larger view. Getting the big picture, they noted, can better inform C-level executives on the individual surfaces in their enterprise; identify existing IT investments and any roadblocks such as siloing; and help reduce unnecessary applications.Our ultimate goal continues to [be to] evaluate the overall architecture, infrastructure, and evaluate our understanding of what the interdependencies are between systems and minimize the vulnerability of bringing particular applications online, Aiken said. Quite honestly, this will never stop. Because this is truly our core of our governance. Cyril Abiteboul has hit back at rival team boss Toto Wolff over the plight of French driver Esteban Ocon. Recently, Wolff slammed the chiefs at Renault and McLaren for suggesting Mercedes junior Ocon might find a place at their teams for 2019. Instead, Ocon looks set to exit F1. But Abiteboul, the boss at Renault, hit back at Wolff's anger. "I don't want to respond to Toto's words so the story continues endlessly," he said. "Perhaps it was the first time Toto had a problem in formula one. "I have never denied that we have a great interest in Esteban and in the future as well. But I believe Renault is only a small factor in Esteban's current situation. "Don't forget about Mercedes and its own decision about its drivers. Don't forget about the situation with Force India and the role Mercedes plays in that. "I don't want to go into the details of our personal discussions but I can say that the contract was obviously not signed, otherwise Toto would have demanded that we honour it," Abiteboul said. (GMM) Cruise and General Motors have joined forces with Honda to pursue the shared goal of transforming mobility through the large-scale deployment of autonomous vehicle technology. Honda will work jointly with Cruise and General Motors to fund and to develop a purpose-built autonomous vehicle for Cruise that can serve a wide variety of use cases and be manufactured at high volume for global deployment. In addition, Cruise, General Motors and Honda will explore global opportunities for commercial deployment of the Cruise network. Honda will contribute approximately $2 billion over 12 years to these initiatives, which, together with a $750 million equity investment in Cruise, brings its total commitment to the project to $2.75 billion. In addition to the recently announced SoftBank investments, this transaction brings the post-money valuation of Cruise to $14.6 billion. This is the logical next step in General Motors and Honda's relationship, given our joint work on electric vehicles, and our close integration with Cruise. Together, we can provide Cruise with the world's best design, engineering and manufacturing expertise, and global reach to establish them as the leader in autonomous vehicle technology while they move to deploy self-driving vehicles at scale. General Motors Chairman and CEO Mary Barra Grand Army is the quintessential neighborhood pub. Photo: Noah Fecks The handful of blocks framed by Atlantic Avenue, Flatbush Avenue, Tillary Street, and Court Street has seen an explosion of development and gentrification in the last decade. While the area may not yet have much of an identity beyond new, it does have some surprising, under-the-radar gems. (It was even home, briefly, to Cesar Ramirezs vaunted Chefs Table at Brooklyn Fare, before the chef and his Michelin stars decamped to Manhattan.) Whether youre a local, or just visiting the area to see a movie at Alamo Drafthouse, these are the absolute best places to grab some food while youre there. The Absolute Best 1. Grand Army 336 State St., at Hoyt St.; 718-643-1503 Lets be honest: Downtown Brooklyn is less a traditional neighborhood and more a cluster of new high-rise condos. Yet the area is home to Grand Army, which embodies all of the ideals of a perfect neighborhood pub. There are the drinks, from co-owner Damon Boelte and bar director Kevin Baird, which change seasonally the summer menu was My Little Ponythemed; the fall drinks are named after Townes Van Zandt songs and lyrics and always manage to be filled with all sorts of intriguingly esoteric ingredients (chile liqueur, Oloroso sherry, tequila, mezcal, and passion fruit all show up in the Skies Full of Silver and Gold). And there is chef Kimberly Plafkes raw bar, which overflows with crab legs, local oysters, and as many cocktail-sauced shrimp as you could ever want. While considering the rest of the menu, one finds that its filled with the kinds of steak tartares and fresh, vaguely healthful veggie dishes that a regular could happily eat multiple times a week. And speaking of frequent visits, the overall vibe is so comfortable and welcoming that it practically begs people to drop in anytime theyre within a ten-block radius even if it means taking the elevator from their new condo down 30 flights to get there. 2. Circa Brewing Co. 141 Lawrence St., nr. Willoughby St.; 718-858-0055 Photo: Melissa Hom The soaring industrial space feels a bit out of place, both for this particular part of town, and for New York in general. But the fluffy, blistered pizzas that emerge from the kitchen originally run by Luke Bruckert and now overseen by chef Danny Brown are some of the citys most criminally underrated, especially a version topped with soppressata that arrives fully crisped by the heat of the wood-burning oven. Given the name (and the massive steel mash tuns that loom over the space), you also expect beer. Mark Szmaida handles brewing duties and keeps a rotating supply of expertly made, you-can-only-get-them-here saisons, stouts, and hoppy, hazy IPAs ready to go. 3. DeKalb Market Hall 445 Albee Sq. W., nr. DeKalb Ave.; 929-359-6555 Photo: Mark Kauzlarich/Bloomberg via Getty Images A food market is defined by its roster of vendors, and DeKalb Market Halls collection makes an impressive statement. To start, there is a Katzs stand, which lacks the ramshackle fluorescent-lit charm of the full delicatessen but nevertheless turns out textbook pastrami sandwiches that live up to the reputation of the Lower East Side originals. Elsewhere in the market, pulled-pork sandwiches, saucy chicken kebabs, pickle-packed chicken sandwiches, gooey cheeseburgers, and Ample Hills ice cream are all accounted for, as well. And even though they arent technically part of the hall itself, youll also find pizza from Fortina, or face-melting dan dan noodles from Han Dynasty if youre in the mood for a sitdown dining experience. Hey, theres even a Trader Joes if youd rather just buy some rosemary-fig crackers. Really, the only thing holding DeKalb Market Hall back is the fact that, as one descends the City Point escalator into this neon-lit, hypercaloric food court, its impossible to shake the feeling that you are, without a doubt, eating in the basement of a mall. Its a nice mall, and the food is uniformly impressive, but the subterranean space can be both a literal and figurative downer. 4. Yaso Tangbao 148 Lawrence St., nr. Willoughby St.; 929-337-7599 Photo: Melissa Hom When it opened in 2015, the clean brick-walled space, gentle prices, and speedy counter service made this Shanghainese street-food destination feel like a chain in waiting. And in fact, two more locations have sprung up since, all built on a foundation of twirled-top soup dumplings, with yielding skins and hefty liquid fillings. (Go for the pork and blue crab.) The big surprise might be that everything else on the menu delivers, too: Firm cold noodles stand up to their peanut dressing; chunks of chilled cucumber are tossed with garlic; and the pan-fried baos, with their pillowy tops and toasty bottoms, are among the best dumplings in New York. 5. Juniors 386 Flatbush Ave. Ext., at DeKalb Ave.; 718-852-5257 Photo: Melissa Hom Is Juniors a diner? A deli? Some mash-up of the two? At this late stage of its life the restaurant opened in 1950 its mostly a tourist trap. But its a New York icon and it is almost impossible to sit down for a meal without leaving happy. (Even if the signature cheesecake is too dense and overly sweet.) The staff is always in a good mood, there is a 100 percent chance that the sprawling menu will include anything in the world that you might want to eat, and at the very least the portions are huge. Also, the cocktail bar in back is a friendly place for a Manhattan on the rocks if you just want to relax without having to worry, in the slightest, about any faux-speakeasy, mixology nonsense. All told, Juniors is like a Disney version of classic New York, and it would be an actual tragedy if anything happened to change that. Culture VIDEO: Nancy Ajram and Ragheb Alama light up Expo 2020 Dubai with blitzkrieg performance The concert started in the presence of an unprecedented lyrical compass by Ajram, accompanied by her band, and entered the stage singing "I do not live except with you", with which the audience went crazy, and sang several of the songs without music. Trust Needs Truth To Build On In South Sudan Denying existence of abductees who have been spotted in one of your ghost houses is another dreadful omen that you are not telling me the truth for me to trust you...celebrations and cocky hugs will not build trust to deliver peace to our people." By Stephen Par Kuol Under the threatening cloud of war, it is the humanity hanging in the balance from a cross of iron- Dwight Eisenhower Tick! Tick! Tick! Tick! Tick!-- Ticks the clock to the D Day of the 36 months transitional period without the critically needed confidence for implementation of R-ARCSS in spirit and letter. It is worth remembering that this is not uncharted path. We have been here before. In the name of trust building, we gambled it into Juba barehanded in December 2015 and we know what happened. We failed to build trust simply because there was no truth to build the trust on. It transpired in cold blood lynching and hot pursuit to Garamba Park in July 2016. Since then, we have lived through thick and thin of dishonored agreements, political violence and mutual mistrust. Some pundits have called it trust deficit. In this article, I will call it truth deficit. In the balance, hangs the humanity of South Sudanese people who have been reduced to displaced and destitute within their own promised land of milk and honey. The rest are languishing in agonizing limbo of refuge throughout the region. Currently, what is buzzing in so many keen minds is this chicken and egg question: is it trust building or truth building? My thesis is that it is truth building first as experiences in many conflict situations around the world have it that the first casualty of war is always the truth. Speaking from 2015 ARCSS and 2018 R-ARCSS experiences, I can argue with authority that what we have called trust deficit is a symptom of the disease called truth deficit. Where there is no truth, you cannot have trust. As we have all known, trust is seriously eroded among the South Sudanese parties by the raging war of words and the lack of truth in the body politics of the war weary nation. That is what my Nuer folks have called in Thok Nath politikac (political lie). With this lethal politikac, the social fabric of South Sudan has been severely fractured and the societys harmony is dangerously compromised making the trust building extremely daunting. There is truth only in the wine say the French people. In South Sudan, the truth is in war, not in words. We truly fight but make false peace under false sense of security. We have become accustomed to the illusion of security that your insecurity is my security and your death is my life. The gestures of our violent culture speak volumes more in spontaneous state of mind than in acting. We act at the peace talks but in our best behavior, we do what we know how to do best: war. That is why the on going offensives attacks on the SPLM/A (IO) defensive positions in Central Equatoria sound more real than those cocky hand shakes and crocodile conversations at the Friendship Palace of President Omar El Bashir in Khartoum. This tells my dear conscience that the truth is still in the war, not in words and hugs. Presently, South Sudan is a nation whose left hand does not trust her right hand. Through their cheeky diplomacy, South Sudanese political elites have lost confidence of the world at the time of this writing. Even the foreign friends who helped them attained the independence have distanced themselves from the on going peace process until they can truly trust themselves. From the sideline of the United Nations General Assembly in New York to Addis-Ababa and Khartoum, South Sudanese leaders are disdained as savage bulls in a ruthless duel without rules. This has diplomatically made representing South Sudan a contemptuous show these days in those foreign capitals. It is undiplomatic to tell your guest he is going half naked but my reading with diplomatic eye is that we are being told but in body language. Various diplomatic cabals describe us as a society of traumatized and paranoid bunch. True, South Sudan is clinically schizophrenic and the best prescription is the truth. Dont the wise say that the truth is bitter but better? Yes, South Sudan must swallow a bitter pill of truth to cure her from this chronic political schizophrenia. Otherwise, she will continue to roam the streets of the sane world naked for another long time to come. Trust does not come without labor. It must be built. The building blocks of the trust are threads and shreds of veritable and verifiable actions, not Presidential Decrees and Public Pronouncements. You cannot weave threads of lies into attractive truth to build trust. It must be the truth and the whole truth. In His biblical living sermon, the omniscient Lord Jesus Christ said, seek the truth first and the truth shall set you free. In our case, it is the truth that will bring trust and set us free from the chain and shackles of those politikac and gimmicks. In truth, you can not convince my senses that you have never captured even a single SPLA (IO) combatant in the course of five years war to deny existence of SPLA (IO) POWS in your custody. This can only prove one or two things: that you have either violated the Geneva Convention on rule of combat or you are lying to me more at the expense of the trust we strive to build. Denying existence of abductees who have been spotted in one of your ghost houses is another dreadful omen that you are not telling me the truth for me to trust you. Haiti - Justice : Towards strengthening of the US cooperation On Tuesday, Ambassador Sison met Jean Roudy Aly, the Minister of Justice, to discuss the American-Haitian bilateral partnership focused on strengthening the rule of law. The opportunity for the Representative of the Trump Administration, to renew the willingness of the American Government to support the Haitian authorities, particularly in the area of justice and public security. Minister Aly praised the good cooperation between the two countries while underlining President Moise's interest in issues related to land tenure security, prolonged pretrial detention and human trafficking. This meeting, which took place in an atmosphere of reciprocal cordiality, allowed the two officials to identify areas for strengthening cooperation. It was agreed that technical meetings will follow to define the modalities for implementation of the decisions made during this meeting of nearly one hour. HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Security : Mexico strengthens its military cooperation with Haiti Tuesday at the Oasis hotel in Petion-ville, Enold Joseph the new Minister of Defense accompanied by the new Chancellor Bocchit Edmond inaugurated a training seminar on civil protection, human rights, and gender equity, training provided by 5 senior officers of the Mexican army in the framework of the bilateral cooperation Haiti-Mexico. In order to share their experiences, transmit information and strengthen ties of fraternity between the two countries, representatives of the Mexican armed forces will debate for 4 days with their Haitian counterparts what will strengthen the army of the two States, according to Lieutenant-Colonel Andres Calderon. Calderon said that the development of the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd'H) reconstituted after 22 years, was also part of the objectives. Stressing that in the area of civil protection, Mexico is facing various emergencies and that the military is working together to ensure the safety of life of citizens and their property, while providing bilateral support to other countries faced with the same conditions claiming "that prepares the armed forces to deal with disasters." Minister Joseph recalled that Haiti is geographically located on two tectonic faults and on the hurricane route which makes the country very vulnerable to natural events "Geographical fatalism calls for well-planned actions and that civil defense plays its role in the 10 departments of Haiti." Joseph announced that Haiti had great goals vis-a-vis the new army, so that it does not limit itself exclusively to military actions, but that it must prepare to solve the challenges that oppose to the development and existence of the Haitian Nation. Stressing that the armed forces of Haiti will also be ready to protect our borders and to fight against the usual threats, such as smuggling and trafficking of all kinds, terrorism and cybercrime. Recall that since last April, Haiti and Mexico collaborate closely on military issues. In May, senior Mexican military officials hosted a workshop in Haiti on disaster management. https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-24463-haiti-army-the-military-of-mexico-collaborates-with-the-fad-h.html See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-24463-haiti-army-the-military-of-mexico-collaborates-with-the-fad-h.html SL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - News : Zapping... Minimum wage, soon published Marie Elise B. Gelin the new Minister of Social Affairs informs that the minimum wage for each of the 7 segments of different sectors of activity will be published shortly in the official journal "Le Moniteur" and that these salaries will be effective from October 1st 2018. 260,000 births per year According to Jean Patrick Alfred, Director of the Unit of Studies and Programming at the Ministry of Public Health "Haiti expects an average of 260,000 births each year. " Resumption of the activities of the Land Brigade The activities of the Intervention Brigade Against Land Insecurity (BRICIF) interrupted due to delays in appointing and ratifying the new Government, will resume its services to intervene in cases of land conflicts, confirmed Ronsard St Cyr the Secretary State Security. Important meeting with the EU Ambassador The Ambassador of the European Union Vincent Degert, met Prime Minister Jean Henry Ceant on the collaboration between the European Union and Haiti : Political dialogue, Budget 2018-2019, launch of programs and future interventions of the European Bank of Investment (EIB) have been widely discussed. Performance indicators of the Prosecutor's Office First day of a workshop on performance indicators of prosecutor's offices and inspection tools for judicial inspectors of the Ministry of Justice and Public Security (MJSP). The workshop, organized by the Institutional Support section of the Minujusth, aims to provide the Judicial Inspectorate of the Ministry of Justice of tools for gathering information appropriate to the inspection and control missions of performance of Registries and of Tribunals. Improving their performance will help to combat the excessively long delays in the processing of cases, the high rate of prolonged or illegal pre-trial detention and overcrowding by ensuring the implementation of objectives focused on measurable results with tools to evaluate their performance. Towards a cultural cooperation with the USA Tuesday Jean Michel Lapin the new Minister of Culture received the Ambassador of the United States in Haiti, Michelle J. Sison. Discussions took place around the possibilities of cultural cooperation between Haiti and the United States. HL/ HaitiLibre Dick Clark ProductionsThe American Music Awards are less than a week away, but the lineup continues to expand. Camila Cabello has been added to the list of performers, as has Shawn Mendes, performing with Zedd. Shawn and Zedd recently teamed up to release a remix of Shawn's song "Lost in Japan," so we assume they'll be performing that track. As for Camila, she's performing a song from her #1 debut album. Camila has five nods going into the awards, including Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist and New Artist of the Year. Her friend Shawn is up for Favorite Adult Contemporary Artist, an award he won last year. Zedd has two nominations this year, including Collaboration of the Year for his smash single with Maren Morris, "The Middle," and Favorite EDM Artist. The three artists join a lineup that already includes Mariah Carey, Halsey, Cardi B and Carrie Underwood, with Taylor Swift opening the show. There will also be a tribute to the late Aretha Franklin, and a tribute to British rock legends Queen, performed by the band Panic! At the Disco. Hosted by Tracee Ellis Ross, the 2018 American Music Awards will air live from L.A. on Tuesday, October 9 on ABC. Copyright 2018, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. (HedgeCo.Net) The Securities and Exchange Commission has announced that Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC has agreed to settle charges brought by the SEC and the Office of the New York Attorney General regarding material misrepresentations and omissions made in connection with its now-closed Retail Execution Services (RES) business handling of certain customer orders. The settlements require Credit Suisse to pay $5 million to the SEC and $5 million to the NYAG for a total of $10 million. According to the SECs order, Credit Suisse created the RES desk to execute orders for other broker-dealers that handle order flow on behalf of retail investors. The SECs order finds that although RES promoted its access to dark pool liquidity to customers, the firm executed an exceedingly minimal number of held orders orders that must be executed immediately at the current market price in dark pools from September 2011 to December 2012. The SECs order also finds that although Credit Suisse touted robust and enhanced price improvement on orders, RESs computer code treated orders for which execution quality is required to be publicly reported differently from orders for which execution quality is not publicly reported. The SECs order finds that from mid-2011 to March 2015, retail customers did not receive any price improvement from RES on their non-reportable orders, which Credit Suisse failed to disclose. The SECs order also finds that for these non-reportable orders, RES disproportionately used a routing tactic that generally caused market impact and resulted in less favorable execution prices for customers, despite claiming to benefit RESs customers. The use of this routing tactic provided RES an opportunity to profit from its execution of the final portions of those customer orders internally. Market makers that handle retail orders must be transparent with their customers about how orders will be executed and how the market maker will profit from their customers trades, said Marc P. Berger, Director of the SECs New York Regional Office. The settlement holds Credit Suisse accountable for failing to accurately disclose important information about the nature and quality of its execution of trades for retail investors. The SECs order finds that Credit Suisse negligently violated Section 17(a)(2) of the Securities Act. In addition to imposing the penalty, the SECs order censures Credit Suisse and requires that it cease and desist from further violations. Credit Suisse consented to the SECs order without admitting or denying the findings. Stubb on Tuesday confirmed that he has kicked off his campaign to become the so-called lead candidate of the European Peoples Party (EPP), the largest group by representation in the European Parliament, in the European elections scheduled for May, 2019. Alexander Stubb (NCP), a vice president of the European Investment Bank (EIB), has launched his bid to succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as the President of the European Commission. Ill be the Finn taking part in this race, at the end of which may be the presidency of the [European] Commission. We should still not get ahead of ourselves and take it day by day, he commented yesterday to Aamulehti and Alma Media. The ex-Finnish prime minister, minister of finance and minister for foreign affairs is widely considered a viable candidate to take the reins of the European Commission. The position will require the courage and determination to defend the democratic values of Europe, according to Stubb. He viewed that the values are currently under attack from outside and within the EU, as well as partly from within the EPP. Without values, well be left with nothing, he said. Ill take to the barricades to defend human rights, basic rights, freedom, liberal democracy, equality and the principles of the rule of law. Ill set out to defend the foundation of the entire European Union, declared Stubb. Europe, he added, has an opportunity to fill the power vacuum left in the global political arena by the United States. As the United States is voluntarily marginalising itself in world politics, therell be a power vacuum. Someone has to fill that power vacuum. I believe Europe is the best-equipped to succeed in that because its a multilateral community that has been founded on values, he said. This is Europes moment. Stubb will run against Manfred Weber of Germany, the leader of the EPP in the European Parliament. The EPP will convene to select its lead candidate for the upcoming elections in Helsinki on 8 November. Jyrki Katainen (NCP), the European Commissioner for Jobs, Growth, Investment and Competitiveness, described Stubb as a professional and enthusiastic candidate, with a modern and fresh agenda for Europe. Aleksi Teivainen HT Source: Uusi Suomi Privacy Overview This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. The History Files needs your help The History Files as a non-profit site is able to keep on doing what it does thanks your help and support. This year, the site still needs your help. Please click anywhere inside this box to make a small donation via PayPal so that we can continue to provide highly detailed historical research on a fully secure site. Every little helps, and your support is highly appreciated. Target for 2021: 0 300 UNCENSORED presented in partnership with Urban Nation There aren't other events bringing these people together in the UK it's a rare chance to see some of the most exciting international artists at one event while enjoying curated talks, films, immersive installations and so much more." Moniker Art Fair 2018 Highlights include Thursday Collectors & Curatorial Tour, by Fair Director Tina Ziegler and Urban Nation Museum Director, Yasha Young, Introduce the UNCENSORED Installation Hall. Print releases from artists Bom.K / Vermibus / Lauren Bake / Dale Grimshaw Louis Masai Limited Edition Electroplated copper bee sculpture release Friday Landmark Gallery presents Live 1p portraits by artist Tabby. Collectors & Curatorial Tour, by Fair Director Tina Ziegler. The Beatbox Collective performs live on stage in The Art Conference Saturday Nuart Plus x Moniker talks programme: Nuart Plus presents a series of artist talks, presentations, panel debates and films from some of the worlds leading artists, scholars and industry professionals in critical street art practice. FAITH XLVII Book Signing at Le Grand Jeu Book Shop Exclusive Film Screening of the BBC Street Art Documentary, Obair Ealain Nuart Journal Launch Exclusive London Launch with Nuart Founder Martyn Reed & Editor Dr. Susan Hansen From Hera to Eternity, a talk with artist Hera (DE) from Herakut Trigger Warning! Talk with Artist Carrie Reichardt (UK) Sunday Talks and Q&A with Chicago based artist, DONT FRET at The Art Conference Film Screening: "X Art" which highlights artists work containing strong social and political messages, while meeting with those who reveal why and how these artists and their work becoming so attractive to the public and the ART WORLD. Visit the Moniker Art Fair Galleries The galleries and artist from across the globe who be showing works at the Fair include: Under The Radar Gallery (London, UK) / Jewel Goodby Contemporary (London, UK) / Thinkspace Projects (Los Angeles CA, USA) - Solo show by Kaili Smith / Jealous Gallery (London, UK) / Landmark Street Art (Carlisle, UK) / BSMT SPACE (London, UK)/ 1963 Gallery (London, UK)/ Egle Zvirblyte (Lithuania) / Curious Duke Gallery (London, UK) / The Art Hound Gallery (Cambridge, UK) - Solo show by Lauren Baker / Well Hung Gallery (London, UK) / Graffik Gallery (London, UK) / Spoke Art Gallery (NYC and SF, USA) - Solo show by Erik Jones / The Moleskine Project presented by Spoke Art / The Secret Art Prize / Fusion Gallery (Barcelona, Spain) / The artist open studios at the fair include: VESOD (Italy) Skewville (USA) / Louis Masai (UK) Uncensored Installation Hall Co-Curated by Urban Nation: Lek & Sowat (France) / Herakut (Germany) / Tickets: Tickets are available in advance from the (Collectors Preview 15/Day Pass 10/Multi Day Pass 20/Concessions 8) Dates: The fair runs from Thursday, 4 Oct 2018 Sunday, 7 Oct 2018. Fair Venue: The Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL How to get there: The nearest tube stations are Liverpool Street station and Shoreditch Overground station. The Old Truman Brewery has three public car parks which are situated outside the Congestion Charge zone - Elys Yard Car Park, Brick Lane Car Park and Grey Eagle St. Car Park. Follow our Moniker Art Fair Adventures Hookedblog will be in attendance at the Moniker Art Fair preview on Thursday and will be bringing you coverage live from the Art Fair via our Moniker Art Fair on Instagram Hookedblog on Instagram Find Hookedblog on Twitter Instagram Bloglovin' Pinterest The galleries and artist from across the globe who be showing works at the Fair include:Under The Radar Gallery (London, UK) / Jewel Goodby Contemporary (London, UK) / Thinkspace Projects (Los Angeles CA, USA) - Solo show by Kaili Smith / Jealous Gallery (London, UK) / Landmark Street Art (Carlisle, UK) / BSMT SPACE (London, UK)/ 1963 Gallery (London, UK)/ Egle Zvirblyte (Lithuania) / Curious Duke Gallery (London, UK) / The Art Hound Gallery (Cambridge, UK) - Solo show by Lauren Baker / Well Hung Gallery (London, UK) / Graffik Gallery (London, UK) / Spoke Art Gallery (NYC and SF, USA) - Solo show by Erik Jones / The Moleskine Project presented by Spoke Art / The Secret Art Prize / Fusion Gallery (Barcelona, Spain) / Fanakapan (London, UK) / Vinyl on Vinyl (Manila, Philippines)The artist open studios at the fair include: VESOD (Italy) Vermibus (Spain) Bom.K (France) / Axel Void (USA) / Dont Fret (USA) Uncensored Installation Hall Co-Curated by Urban Nation: Lek & Sowat (France) / Herakut (Germany) / FaithXLVII (South Africa) / Ann J Lewis (USA) / LiHill (Canada) / David Mesguich (France) / Dan Rawlings (UK)Tickets are available in advance from the Moniker Eventbrite webpage here. (Collectors Preview 15/Day Pass 10/Multi Day Pass 20/Concessions 8)The fair runs from Thursday, 4 Oct 2018 Sunday, 7 Oct 2018.The Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, London, E1 6QLThe nearest tube stations are Liverpool Street station and Shoreditch Overground station. The Old Truman Brewery has three public car parks which are situated outside the Congestion Charge zone - Elys Yard Car Park, Brick Lane Car Park and Grey Eagle St. Car Park.Hookedblog will be in attendance at the Moniker Art Fair preview on Thursday and will be bringing you coverage live from the Art Fair via our Hookedblog #InstagramStories on Instagram so be sure to join us and see what's going down at the fair.Moniker Art Fair on Instagram @monikerartfair Hookedblog on Instagram @Hookedblog Find Hookedblog on Facebook Visit the Moniker Art Fair website for the full extensive four-day fair program of events, talks, print launches, book signing, and screenings. Moniker Art Fair returns to East London this week, with the fair officially kicking off on Thursday 4th October. Following their debut New York summer edition, the fair returns to London taking over the upper floor of The Old Truman Brewery for its 10th edition.Expanding on last years fair, Moniker Art Fair will extend their 30,000 square foot fair space outdoors, showcasing the first-ever Formula-E art car by renowned British street artist D*Face, as part of their ongoing collaboration with Kaspersky Lab.UK artist D*face talks about his partnership with Moniker and Kaspersky Lab as he explains his creative design process in the video above.For the 10th edition, Moniker Art Fair has also partnered with Berlins Urban Nation Museum to present UNCENSORED, a wholly unfiltered and unrestricted celebration of the revolutionary elements of urban contemporary art.UNCENSORED will see 10,000 sq.feet within the fair filled with immersive installations that provides a platform for the artists unafraid of calling out the injustice we are currently experiencing across the world, those who have understood that the evolution of urban art does not mean abandoning its core values.Fair Director of Moniker Art Fair, Tina Ziegler, says: As an existing print subscriber it is easy to get FREE access to all our online content. When you click get started below it will walk you through creating an online account to attach your print subscription number to. After your account is created it will ask you to either add a subscription for online access or click on the print subscriber button. Click the print subscriber button header and it will open a dropdown, now click on get started. The page will reload and you will be prompted to enter an account number and a zip code. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO USE THE NUMBER OFF OF THE MOST RECENT ISSUE OR ANYTHING AFTER JANUARY 28, 2019 TO GAIN ACCESS! OLD ACCOUNT NUMBERS WILL NOT WORK The account number and zip code are easily available on your most recent issue of the High Plains Journal or Midwest Ag Journal in the address fields as is shown here. Sometimes the account number has extra zero's in front of it, just ignore those. Subscribing to our services is a three step process. First you have to create an account and then you have to pick if you want to subscribe to digital and or print. Some people only want to be a digital subscriber to get access online and others want to also receive the print edition. If you are already a print subscriber and want online access, it is free, you simply have to create an online account and then attach your print subscription account number to the online account you create. New Trump Trade Deal Hurts Music, says Recording Industry Even as the seeping Music Modernization Act sits on his desk waiting for his signature, President Trump is failing creators and the music industry with his new Mexico and Canada trade deal, according to the RIAA. While President Trump is taking a victory lap after announcing reconfigured trade agreements with Canada and Mexico, the recording industry is taking exception to the proposed deals copyright protections. "enrich(es) platforms that abuse outdated liability protections" In a statement released after the deal was announced, the RIAAs Mitch Glazier said: We understand the U.S. Trade Representative and his team must navigate a complex trade landscape, and we appreciate the diligent work of Ambassador Lighthizer and his staff over the past several months. Unfortunately, the agreements proposed text does not advance adequate modern copyright protections for American creators. Instead, the proposal enshrines regulatory twenty-year-old safe harbor provisions that do not comport with todays digital reality. These provisions enrich platforms that abuse outdated liability protections at the expense of American creators and the U.S. music community, which provides real jobs and is one of our nations biggest cultural assets. Modern trade treaties should advance the policy priority of encouraging more accountability on public platforms, not less. We are hopeful that the Administration and Congress will redouble their efforts to further this priority going forward, which is front and center in the national dialogue today. We look forward to working with both USTR and Congress to ensure that this text serves not as a precedent but a launching pad for future negotiations toward a framework that works for everyone in the digital marketplace, including creators. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement enshrines the Safe Harbor provisions of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, a piece of legislation from 1998 that sought to protect Internet service companies from copyright infringement its users might engage in on their platforms. In essence, Google cannot be found liable for copyright infringement if its search results point to copyrighted material made available for download by a third party. In recent years, the safe harbor provisions of the DCMA have been under attack by copyright holders primarily through the legal system. In landmark cases such as BMG v. Cox, content companies have slowly chipped away at the protections provided by the Safe Harbor provisions of the DCMA, creating a legal morass that is very much in flux. In BMG v. Cox, the internet service provider unsuccessfully argued for safe harbor protections after failing to stop users from downloading copyrighted material even after the copyright holder issued warnings that violations were taking place. Cox settled the case in August, just days before it was due to come to trial after the court ruled in February that they were not eligible for protection under Safe Harbor. Coxs settlement came just weeks after a group of labels that includes Warner, Sony, and Universal Music, filed a suit against them over similar allegations. The issue is further complicated by different copyright regimes in Americas trade partners. Unlike the U.S., Mexico has no safe harbor provisions and companies may be liable for copyright infringement that occurs on their platform. Canada, meanwhile, does provide similar Safe Harbor protections under the Copyright Modernization Act, which passed in 2012. As with any international treaty, Congress must ratify the new trade agreements before they will take effect. Share on: Sony Music Faces Lawsuit For Under-Reporting Streaming Revenue Just in case you didn't feel like the music industry was a litigious enough space, the estate of 60s era pop star Ricky Nelson has open a whole new can of legal worms by filing a class action lawsuit against Sony Music over its alleged failure to properly report streaming of the late artist's music. ________________________ Guest post by Bobby Owsinski of Music 3.0 Heres one to keep an eye on as it can open up a whole new set of artist/label lawsuits. The estate of the late 60s pop start Ricky Nelson has filed a class action lawsuit against Sony Music over streaming royalties. The suit alleges that Sony assessed an intercompany charge on international streaming royalties, and as a result, theres no good way to get an accurate account of foreign sales. The suit alleges, By assessing an intercompany charge for international sales, [Sony] impermissibly takes up to 68 percent off the top of the international revenue earned from streaming sales, and bases the artists royalty rate on the remainder, which methodology directly violates the terms of the [artists compensation agreements]. In other words, the label would charge each of its affiliates like Sony UK and Sony Japan an unspecified fee on their streaming royalties, pocket it, then pass whatevers left to the artist. Since the beginning of music business time record labels have been using creative accounting practices to keep more of the revenue and pay their artists less. Sometimes they get caught and sometimes they dont. Thats not to say that its been proven that Sony did anything wrong in this case though, but the reputation and history of record label practices always lead one to think that if theres smoke theres fire. The fact of the matter is that Sony signed Ricky Nelson at the tail end of his career when he wasnt selling all that much, so the fight here probably isnt over a huge amount. That said, its expensive to launch a lawsuit, but not so much if its a class action with a group of people, which is the case here. The number of former and current Sony artists involved could number into the hundreds before this is all over. That Spotify direct deal is looking a little better today for a few artists after seen this. Share on: Stairway To Heaven Copyright Lawsuit Again Headed To Court A recent lawsuit from the estate of the late Randy California that Led Zep has pilfered key elements of their hit song "Stairway" from the band Spirit's somewhat less well known "Taurus" seemed like it was it was settled in 2016, but a federal appeals court flipped the decision (which had landed on the side of Zep) meaning everyone is once again returning to court. __________________________________ Guest post by Bobby Owsinski of Music 3.0 Led Zeppelins Stairway To Heaven is certainly one of the the eras most iconic rock songs but its been wrapped up in a lawsuit that cant seem to come to a close. The estate of the late Randy California of the band Spirit sued the members of Led Zep for stealing parts of Stairway To Heaven from a song by Spirit called Taurus more than 44 years after the song was written, but the court sided with Zep that in fact the song wasnt copied in 2016. Last week a federal appeals court overturned that decision, so everyone is headed back to court yet once again. This all came about from the fact that Led Zeppelin opened for Spirit several times during the bands first tour of the States. Presumably they heard Spirit perform Taurus as part of their set, and the beginning part of that song then made it into Stairway a few years and albums later. Whats interesting here is the fact that it took 44 years to bring this lawsuit, and about 15 years after Randy California (real name Randy Wolfe) passed away. The opening descending chord changes of Taurus is indeed similar to Stairway but the similarity stops there, and its also a very common musical progression, which is what the court decided during the initial trial. The federal appeals court didnt feel the same way, however, and found that the US district court that decided the first trial was wrong to not allow a recording of Taurus to be played during the trial. So why is Californias estate been pursuing this so hard? Its been estimated that Stairway has earned more than $540 million over the years, so it all comes down to money. And you can be sure that intellectual property attorneys, trial lawyers and expert witnesses will see their share of it as the battle continues. It just goes to show how tough it is to be a songwriter, especially one with a classic hit. Share on: Berkshire Health Systems Has 'Legitimate Concerns' With Ballot Question Berkshire Medical Center says not all the staff are on board with Question 1, providing a group photo to prove it. PITTSFIELD, Mass. Berkshire Medical Center officials estimate that it'll cost the hospital $22.8 million if Question 1 is passed. Voters will decide in November whether to legally mandate specific ratios of registered nurses to patients. Berkshire Health Systems is opposing the question, fearing the costs will prove to be detrimental to the services it provides. "It requires us to hire between 120 and 130 registered nurses. Do the math, it is about $20 million for Berkshire Medical Center. It is a lot of money," President and CEO David Phelps said in an interview on Friday. Phelps said Berkshire Health Systems would have to hire 125 new nurses at BMC, adding $22.8 million to the annual operating budget and Fairview Hospital in Great Barrington would be looking at $1.4 million. Phelps fears for the long-term financial implications it could have on not only the hospital but other health providers in the area. He said there are "unintended consequences" associated with the question that could ultimately limit the services patients can access. "You can't determine when people are coming. If you can't meet the needs of the patient when they present, you have limited choices either pay huge fines or ship the patient somewhere else if you can find somewhere that is compliant," Phelps said. "This is not anti-union or anti-nurse, we have legitimate concerns about what this means. I don't think it was their intent to introduce a bill that raises all of these issues but they have, perhaps unintended consequences." Chief of Staff Daniel Doyle said currently the hospital works with "care teams" consisting of staff from different disciplines doctors, registered and licensed practical nurses, aides, therapists, and more to care for patients. The hospital tries to match up which specialties are needed for a patient census. "That requires a great deal of flexibility. That is something that can change not just shift by shift but even in a single shift if some patients leave and new patients come in," Doyle said. Particularly, there is concern over language in the question that reads 'at all times' because that means if a nurse calls out sick or there is an unexpected influx of patients, the hospital could quickly be out of compliance, which carries a $25,000 civil penalty. Doyle said nurses currently have lunches covered by others and simply increasing staffing to cover that with the current ratios would require hiring 25 more nurses. It requires the same ratios during the evenings when most patients are sleeping, adding more registered nurses. "If you don't adhere the ratios, you are subject to a $25,000 fine per episode. The doesn't exist in the California mandate, the financial penalty does not exist in the California mandate. It is going to exist in Massachusetts if this passes," Doyle said. A 1999 ballot measure in California instituted nurse-patient ratios but left the actual numbers up to the recommendations of the state's Department of Public Health, which put them into effect in 2004. Massachusetts' Question 1 details the ratio of patients to registered nurses and sets the penalty for noncompliance. Doyle described a hypothetical situation, saying if the hospital falls out of compliance four times a week in any area of the campus, it would rack up $5 million in fines in one year. "We could cut all of the administrator salaries way down and we're not going to find $5 million, never mind the cost to hire these RNs," Doyle said. Phelps said the hospital would have to not only hire up to make sure the ratios are hit but add even more just to avoid being levied those fines. "This significantly changes 24-hour coverage so it has more nurses. It creates this 'at all times' provision so given the financial penalties you would probably hire more nurses to cover in the event of something happening. And to cover breaks and lunches, it is 25," Phelps said. Phelps said he doesn't know where he would be able to find that many nurses is such a quick time the law if passed goes in effect on Jan. 2, 2019. "We are always supportive of Berkshire Community College where we get most of our nurses," Phelps said. "They put out 35-40 a year, maybe, that would barely keep up with attrition. So we don't know where we'd come up with 125 nurses. More importantly, the effective date is shortly after it is passed. It is not like we have a year or two to comply." Berkshire Medical Center won't be the only hospital in the state that will be scrambling for nurses. Doyle is concerned there would essentially be a bidding war for nurses across the state. "This is bigger than what the union would like you to believe, that this is just wealthy hospital who doesn't care about their nurses or patient safety. That is just not so," Phelps said. The potential impact of a nursing shortage also threatens the way health care has been operating, he said. Phelps said insurers and government reimbursements have been focused on keeping people healthy and out of the hospital, and a lot of that depends on ancillary services, such as the Brien Center and other health-care providers. If Question 1 is passed, hospital officials say the demand for nurses would further concentrate resources to the hospital, cutting back what is done outside of it. "Our resources should be out there, trying to keep people from getting sick," Doyle said. The Massachusetts Nurses Association, the union representing about a quarter of the state's registered nurses, has been particularly driven in advocating for the passage. The union nurses at Berkshire Medical Center recently went on strike and were hours away from a second strike as the safe staffing issue presented the major linchpin in negotiations. The union says the intent is to ensure nurses aren't being overworked and patients are receiving proper care. The union says it is an issue of "safe staffing." Hospital officials say they will support investing in patient care, but this ballot question doesn't do that. Doyle worked in the intensive care unit for years and when mandated ratios were implemented there, the care that patients received didn't change. He said Massachusetts ranks higher in health outcomes than California, which has had mandated safe staffing levels for 14 years. "The idea of having safe staffing and safe patient care is something we all value highly. I don't see this as contributing to that at all," Doyle said. "It really takes away a lot of flexibility. It doesn't promote safe patient care." Those in favor of the question will quickly point to the amount of revenue Berkshire Health Systems takes in, but Phelps said there is no certainty those numbers will stay consistent. He said much of the recent success came from the stock market, and not so much from the services provided. He said the hospital pays some $40 million a year in capital costs for things as equipment replacement. And each year costs continue to rise while reimbursements haven't been keeping pace. "It is true we've performed well financially. But it is also true when you look ahead five or six years, it is hard to imagine we'd perform as well as we do today. That has implications for anyone who depends on us," Phelps said. As costs increase, Phelps said managing the health-care system is going to be much more difficult. The emergency room, for example, requires a constant and orderly flow of patients. After being treated, the patient gets moved to another section of the hospital. But if that desired department is out of compliance with the ratio, then the hospital is in a position to make the patient wait, find somewhere else to send the patient, or take the fine. Phelps said in no way would anybody be turned away but it does add significant hitches to management. A brief analysis commissioned by the MNA from Judith Shindul-Rothschild, an associate professor at the William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, puts the cost to implement the law at $35 million ot $46 million. Using California as a benchmark, she pegs it as closer to $23 million. Hospitals already profitable are likely to remain so. The Massachusetts Health Policy Commission is also expected to release an independent report this week on the statewide financial implications. iBerkshires is presenting the local chapter of the Massachusetts Nurses Association's view on the issue in another story. Amber VanBramer, a registered nurse in the ICU at Berkshire Medical Center, says who knows better than nurses what patients need. VanBramer and other RNs are rallying support of Question 1 that sets minimum nurse staffing levels. Advocates for Ballot Measure on Nurse Staffing Levels Rally in Pittsfield Mark Brodeur, also an RN, was more fiery in his speech, blaming hospital executives across the state for choosing profit over patient care. PITTSFIELD, Mass. Advocates for the ballot measure instituting minimum nurse staffing levels in hospitals say the focus is on patient safety. "The care has gotten tougher, the patients have gotten sicker with our opioid epidemic," said Amber VanBramer, a registered nurse in the intensive care unit at Berkshire Medical Center. "We need safe limits to be able to care for these patients properly." Around a dozen registered nurses and supporters, including North Adams City Councilor Jason LaForest, a nurse, gathered in the light rain outside the hospital on Tuesday afternoon to gear up for canvassing with less than five weeks to the November election. One of the biggest issues they say they're addressing is confusion over exactly what the Patient Safety Act will mean for Massachusetts. Question 1 was placed on the ballot by petition and spells out the maximum number of patients under a nurse's charge in acute care facilities. Voting yes will institute the changes that will have to be implemented by Jan. 1, 2019, or at the expiration of any current nursing contract. Voting no will leave everything as it is. Safe staffing levels have been at the crux of contracts with the Massachusetts Nurses Association over the past several years and previous attempts at a ballot resolution resulted in a state law in 2014 mandating staffing level in intensive care units. Over the past three years, the nurses at BMC have reported more than 500 incidents of what they say is unsafe staffing levels. And just the year before, the local MNA chapter had staged a vigil in the same spot to rally on the eve of a strike over contract issues including safe staffing. "It was one of the largest collective actions we've taken in over 35 years," said Mark Brodeur, an RN at BMC. "Thousands of people in our community stood up ... "It took years and massive public pressure for our hospital executives to act and even when they did, it fell short of what our patients need." Berkshire Medical Center officials, along with hospital officials across the state, say forcing them to staff units according to Question 1 will cost millions of dollars, drive up costs and wait times, and endanger health systems and small rural hospitals in particular. BMC alone is looking at more than $20 million in costs to add on more nurses. But Donna Kelly-Williams, RN and co-chair of the Committee to Ensure Safe Patient Care, dismisses those concerns. "Every single day hospitals make choices about where they're going to put their resources," she said. "This ballot question is about putting the resources into the patient first and it does have all of the flexibility needed for any community hospital to be able to put safe patient limits in place in every hospital in Massachusetts." Question 1 advocates say hospitals are already practicing staffing limits through their own policies. "Question 1 is not a government mandate," said Brodeur. "Hospitals across the state already use staffing schedules, they already know what their own limits should be. They put out plans for how many nurses they will schedule in advance. ... There is no recourse for bedside nurses when hospitals to do not meet patient needs. "That is why nurses like myself wrote Question 1 for our patients." The nurses' association says minimum staffing will lead to better outcomes for patients. Nurses in charge of too many patients don't have enough time to spend at bedsides providing focused care, leading to poorer quality health care. In regard to a looming nursing shortage, they say guaranteed staffing may bring back nurses who have left the field and prevent burnout in currently overstressed nurses. Brodeur was quick to blame hospital executives for choosing profit over patient care, but hospital officials say they are concerned about keeping both patients and health systems healthy. "This is bigger than what the union would like you to believe, that this is just a wealthy hospital who doesn't care about their nurses or patient safety. That is just not so," Berkshire Health Systems CEO David Phelps said last week. The fear is that a yes vote would cause nursing shortage across the region. Phelps said insurers and government reimbursements have been focused on keeping people healthy and out of the hospital, and a lot of that depends on ancillary services, such as the Brien Center and other health-care providers. If Question 1 is passed, hospital officials say the demand for nurses would further concentrate resources to the hospital, cutting back what is done outside of it. The measures inclusion of set penalties of between $250 to $2,500 per day for noncompliance also has administrators on edge. A BW Research Partnership and Mass Insight report , commissioned by the Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association, estimated that implementation of the law will cost the state's health-care system $1.3 billion in the first year and $900 million a year afterward, as well as "approximately $100 million in increased direct state spending in the first year." It will require nearly 6,000 registered nurses in the first month in a state that has a vacancy rate of 5.3 percent, or 1,200 nurses. The Massachusetts Health Policy Commission is expected to release its own independent report this week on the statewide financial implications of Question 1 but advocates say there's already a good example in California. "We're not inventing the wheel here," Kelly-Williams said. "This has already been done in California and the same rhetoric that you're hearing regarding community hospitals and closures and costs are all being exaggerated the exact same way they were in California." She said California has lower insurance rates, better patient outcomes and more profitable health-care systems. There are some significant differences between California's mandated minimum staffing and Question 1. First, the ballot measure passed in California in 1999 left the actual staffing quotas up to the recommendations of the state's Department of Public Health, which put them into effect in 2004. That gave hospitals more time to implement the law and have a voice in how the staffing levels were calculated during a series of public hearings. It does appear that other positions were sacrificed to afford the number of nurses needed in California but Question 1 prevents Massachusetts hospitals from reducing their health-care workforce to hire nurses. Meanwhile, it's not surprising there's some confusion over which way to vote on Question 1. Both sides are using very similar red, white and blue signs that can be seen along the roadways only some signs say vote no, and others say vote yes. "If we're going to win this we need to make sure we're knocking on doors," said Casey Pease, an emergency medical technician whose mother is a nurse. "When they hear directly from you as a nurse, you're able to help change their minds or help them stand up for Question 1." iBerkshires is presenting Berkshire Health System's view on the issue in another article. iciHaiti - Diaspora : Dates of the next Mobile Consulate The Consulate of the Republic of Haiti in Orlando informs the Haitian Community of Central Florida that the next "Mobile Consulate" will be held Wednesday, October 10, 2018 from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm at the Evangelical Church of Jacksonville located at 507 Casay Avc . Jacksonville, FL 32254. A second "Mobile Consulate" will be held on Thursday, October 25, 2018 from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm at the Epiphany Catholic Church located at 2510 E. Hanna Ave. Tampa, FL 33610 For more information, contact the Consular Post at : (407) 897-1262 IH/ iciHaiti To access our in-house intelligence please request a trial here. Read this article and more for a 30 day period. Are you already an IFLR subscriber? Login here By Cesar Chelala October 02, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - Only a heartless person could not be moved by Dr. Christine Blasey Fords testimony before the Senate judiciary committee. And only a biased one could not see that the testimony of Judge Brett Kavanaugh was trying to replace fire for truth. His refusal to unequivocally say that he would welcome an FBI investigation of the incident involving him and Dr. Ford was a weak point in his own defense. Dr. Fords testimony was poised, pained, and ringing of civic responsibility, while Judge Kavanaughs testimony was loud and vigorous, just what the audience of Republican senators wanted to hear. On Saturday, Judge Kavanaugh received the blessing of President Donald Trump, who said that Brett Kavanaugh would be a truly great justice. The hearing evolved in a different way than expected, and the FBI investigation may clear matters definitely. It is Senator Jeff Flakes merit who, unlike his colleagues in the Senate, had the minimum amount of decency to ask for an investigation of the incident. Impressive as it was, Dr. Fords behavior has an unusual precedent. In his book entitled Genesis, the late Uruguayan writer Eduardo Galeano narrates how in 1542 Francisco the Orellana, a close friend and possibly even a relative of Francisco Pizarro, the conquistador of Peru, fought the inhabitants of Conlapayara. Going down the Amazon with his men, de Orellana reached the village of Conlapayara. On St. Johns Day, with bursts of arquebus and crossbow from their brigantines, de Orellanas men killed the villagers coming from shore. Things were going well for the Spaniards. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter They hadnt considered, however, the possibility that the women from the village were going to join the battle. The women appeared suddenly, and placing themselves in front of the men, fought fiercely. Women of great attractiveness and charm, they fought courageously, never getting tired. The Spaniards had heard of such women, but only now, in the heat of battle, they realized that they existed. They lived to the south, in dominions without men. They fought the Spaniards laughing and dancing and singing, their breast quivering in the breeze. They chased them away until the Spaniards got lost beyond the mouth of the Tapajos River. They were exhausted and astonished by what they had experienced. The invaders kept sailing the river until they reached the sea without pilot or compass or chart. They just let themselves drift down the Amazon River, through the jungle, without the energy to row, and mumbling prayers: They pray to God to make the next enemies male, however many they may be, wrote Galeano. While giving her testimony in front of the judiciary committee of the Senate, Dr. Ford met the distrustful look of all senators, with the unique exception of Arizona Senator Jeff Flake, who seemed genuinely troubled by her words. After both testimonies were presented, and Senator Flake asked for a one-week investigation by the FBI before casting his vote, all senators rushed back to their chambers, in disbelief of the days proceedings. Even President Donald Trump, a man who is not known to be sympathetic to victims of any kind, least of all of sexual violence, called Dr. Fords testimony compelling. Dr. Ford showed tremendous courage, decency and a rare sense of civic duty. She proved to be a true woman of Conlapayara. Cesar Chelala is a New York writer and winner of several journalism awards. Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here. ==See Also== Kavanaugh Was Questioned by Police After Bar Fight in 1985 Don't count on the FBI to clear up the Kavanaugh-Ford mess. Its record is flawed. GoFundMe Accounts For Kavanaugh And Ford Top $1 Million; Ford, who lives in a $3.3 million Palo Alto home and has had free legal representation by attorneys has a combined GoFundMe "take" of more than $700,000 between two campaigns. Kavanaughs Harvard Law Class Canceled: Today, Judge Kavanaugh indicated that he can no longer commit to teaching his course in January Term 2019, so the course will not be offered, Note To ICH Community We ask that you assist us in dissemination of the article published by ICH to your social media accounts and post links to the article from other websites. Thank you for your support. Peace and joy By Moon Of Alabama October 02, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - Earlier today the U.S. ambassador to NATO threatened to "take out" a new kind of Russian missiles: The U.S. envoy to NATO on Tuesday said that Russia must halt development of new missiles that could carry nuclear warheads and warned that the United States could take out the system if it becomes operational. The U.S. and Russia have for some time disagreed about the INF treaty. The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty was signed in 1987 between the Soviet General Secretary Gorbachov and U.S. President Reagan. It prohibits land based (not sea based) nuclear capable systems with a range of more than 500 kilometers and less than 5,500 kilometers. The agreement came to pass after the Soviets stationed SS-20 missiles in East Europe. NATO responded with the Pershing II deployment. The problem with these missiles was warning time. Fired at a relative short range they threatened to overwhelm one side before it could respond. The missiles thus destroyed the equilibrium of Mutual Assured Destruction (MAD). The INF treaty banned these missiles. Russia said for years that the U.S. broke the INF agreement when it stationed missile defense systems in Europe to allegedly take out North Korean and Iranian intercontinental missiles. The missile defense missiles could possibly be armed with nuclear warheads and could probably be used in a surface-to-surface mode. (Previously deployed U.S. Nike-Hercules air defense missiles had such capabilities.) Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter The U.S. denies that its missile defense systems break the INF and accuses Russia of breaking the treaty by testing a land launched version of its sea launched Kalibr cruse missiles. Russia denies that it is testing anything that is not compatible with the INF treaty. If there is a land launched version it is likely confined to a range below 500 kilometers and thus in compliance with the INF. The sea launched version has a reach of up to 2,500 kilometer. An export variant is limited to 300 kilometer. The possibly land launched version, which is said to be shorter than the original Kalibr missile (see comments), might well have a much shorter range than the sea launched system. The missiles have, as far as is publicly know, non-nuclear warheads. The U.S. ambassador to NATO is Kay Baily Hutchinson, a long-term Republican politician with no military experience. Her choice of words in today's press briefing was clearly unprofessional: Question: [...] Maam, can you be more specific what kind of new information that you are bringing to the table regarding the breach of the INF Treaty? And more explicitly also, what kind of countermeasures that you are considering. Ambassador Hutchison: The countermeasures would be to take out the missiles that are in development by Russia in violation of the treaty. So that would be the countermeasure eventually. We are trying not to do anything that would violate the treaty on our side, which allows research, but not going forward into development, and we are carefully keeping the INF Treaty requirements on our side, while Russia is violating. ... The reporters in the room were in disbelieve over such aggressive wording and followed up: Question: Thanks, Ambassador. Lorne [Inaudible], Associated Press. Just to clarify a little bit when you said to take out the missiles that are in development, we are a little excited here. Do you mean to get those withdrawn? You dont mean to actually take them out in a more [inaudible]? Ambassador Hutchison: Well, withdrawing, yes. Getting them to withdraw would be our choice, of course. But I think the question was what would you do if this continues to a point where we know that they are capable of delivering. And at that point we would then be looking at a capability to take out a missile that could hit any of our countries in Europe and hit America in Alaska. So it is in all of our interests, and Canada as well, I suppose. So we have our North Atlantic risk as well as the European risk. So what is the ambassador going to do? Bomb Russia over a disagreement about the technical specification of a potential new missile that is not even deployed yet? This nonsense comes just days after the U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke suggested that the U.S. Navy might blockade Russia because of its energy trade. When the INF treaty was signed NATO was far from Russia's border. Now it is directly at it. The Russian government takes such threats seriously. Its spokesperson was not amused (Ru, machine translation): The North Atlantic Alliance does not realize the degree of its responsibility and the dangers of aggressive rhetoric, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Tuesday when commenting on the words of US Permanent Representative to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison about the possibility of shooting down Russian missiles. ... "It seems that people making such statements do not realize the degree of their responsibility and the dangers of aggressive rhetoric. Who authorized this woman to make such statements? The American people? Are the people in the US aware of the fact that so-called diplomats are paid aggressively and destructive? It is very easy to break and destroy everything. It is difficult to repair and repair. American diplomacy has a lot to do to recover from the consequences of its inherent errors, "Zakharova told reporters. One hopes that the ambassador erred in her "take out" response. Otherwise Russia will probably consider to "take out" the ABM assets the U.S. deploys over Europe. That would surely produce a lot of content for the Express' "World War3" category. This article was originally published by " Moon Of Alabama " - Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here. ==See Also== Note To ICH Community We ask that you assist us in dissemination of the article published by ICH to your social media accounts and post links to the article from other websites. Thank you for your support. Peace and joy One Click Closer to Annihilation Last week Washington threatened Iran, Syria, China, Venezuela and Russia By Philip Giraldi October 02, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - The nuclear war doomsday clock maintained on the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists website has advanced to two minutes before midnight, the closest point to possible atomic apocalypse since the end of the Cold War. In 1995 the clock was at fourteen minutes to midnight, but the opportunity to set it back even further was lost as the United States and its European allies took advantage of a weakened Russia to advance NATO into Eastern Europe, setting the stage for a new cold war, which is now underway. It is difficult to imagine how the United States might avoid a new war in the Middle East given the recent statements that have come out of Washington, and, given that the Russians are also active in the region, a rapid and massive escalation of something that starts out as a minor incident should not be ruled out. President Donald Trump set the tone when he harangued the United Nations last Tuesday, warning that the United States would go it alone in defense of its perceived interests, with no regard for international bodies that exist to limit armed conflict and punish those who commit war crimes. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter Trumps 35-minute speech featured an anticipated long section targeting Iran. He commented that: Irans leaders sow chaos, death, and destruction. They do not respect their neighbors or borders, or the sovereign rights of nations. Instead, Irans leaders plunder the nations resources to enrich themselves and to spread mayhem across the Middle East and far beyond We cannot allow the worlds leading sponsor of terrorism to possess the planets most dangerous weapons. We cannot allow a regime that chants Death to America, and that threatens Israel with annihilation, to possess the means to deliver a nuclear warhead to any city on Earth. There are a number of things exaggerated or incorrect in Trumps description of Iran as well as in the conclusions he draws. The Middle East and other adjacent Muslim countries are in chaos because the United States has destabilized the region starting with the empowering of the Islamist Mujadeddin in the war against Soviet Afghanistan in the 1980s. It then invaded Afghanistan in 2001 followed by Iraq in 2003, enabling the rise of ISIS and giving local al-Qaeda affiliates a new lease on life, before turning on Damascus with the Syria Accountability Act later in the same year and then destroying the Libyan government under Barack Obama. These were, not coincidentally, policies promoted by Israel that received, as a result, bipartisan support in Congress. The emotional description of disrespecting neighbors, borders and sovereign rights fits the U.S. and Israel to a T rather than Iran. The U.S. has soldiers stationed illegally in Syria while Israel bombs the country on an almost daily basis, so who is doing the disrespecting? Washington and Tel Aviv are also the principal supporters of terrorists in the Middle East, not Iran, arming them, training them, hospitalizing them when they are injured, and making sure that they continue their work in attacking Syrias legitimate government. And as for most dangerous weapons, Iran doesnt have any and is a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, which Israel and the U.S. have not signed. Nor would Iran have any such weapons in the future but for the fact that Trump has backed out of the agreement to monitor and inspect Iranian nuclear research and development, which will, if anything, motivate Tehran to develop weapons to protect itself. Trump also elaborated on the following day regarding Irans alleged but demonstrably non-existent nuclear program when he indicated to the Security Council that Washington would go after countries that violate the rules on nuclear proliferation. He clearly meant Iran but the comment was ironic in the extreme, as Israel is the worlds leading nuclear rogue nation with an arsenal of two hundred nuclear devices, having stolen the uranium and key elements of the technology from the United States in the 1960s. Trumps new appraisal of the state of the Middle East is somewhat a turnaround. Five months ago he said that he wanted to get out of Syria and bring the soldiers home. But in early September, the secretary of states special representative for Syria engagement, James Jeffrey, indicated that the U.S. would stay to counter Iranian activities. And John Bolton has also recently had a lot to say about Iran, Syria and Russia. Last Monday he confirmed that Washington intends to keep a military presence in Syria until Iran withdraws all its forces from the country. Were not going to leave as long as Iranian troops are outside Iranian borders, and that includes Iranian proxies and militias. On the following day, speaking at a Sheldon Adelson funded United Against Nuclear Iran Summit, he said the murderous regime of mullahs in Tehran would face serious consequences if they persist in their willingness to lie, cheat and deceive. If you cross us, our allies, or our partners; if you harm our citizens there will indeed be hell to pay. Let my message today be clear: We are watching, and we will come after you. John Bolton also warned the Russians about their decision to upgrade the air defenses in Syria in the wake of the recent Israeli bombing raid that led to the shooting down of a Russian intelligence plane. He said absurdly and inaccurately The Israelis have a legitimate right to self-defense against this Iranian aggressive behavior, and what were all trying to do is reduce tensions, reduce the possibility of major new hostilities. Thats why the president has spoken to this issue and why we would regard introducing the S-300 as a major mistake. Bolton then elaborated that We think introducing the S-300s to the Syrian government would be a significant escalation by the Russians and something that we hope, if these press reports are accurate, they would reconsider. And regarding who was responsible for the deaths of the Russian airmen, Bolton also has a suitable explanation There shouldnt be any misunderstanding here The party responsible for the attacks in Syria and Lebanon and really the party responsible for the shooting down of the Russian plane is Iran. Boltons desire to exonerate Israel and always blame Iran is inevitably on display. He is curiously objecting to the placement of missiles that are defensive in nature, presumably because Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked him to do so. The only way one can be threatened by the S-300 is if you are attacking Syria, but that might be a fine point that Bolton fails to grasp as he was a draft dodger during the Vietnam War and has since that time not placed himself personally at risk in support of any of the wars he has been promoting. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis also spoke on Monday, at the Pentagon. His spin on Iran was slightly different but his message was the same. As part of this overarching problem, we have to address Iran. Everywhere you go in the Middle East where theres instability you will find Iran. So in terms of getting to the end state of the Geneva [negotiations] process, Iran, too, has a role to play, which is to stop fomenting trouble. To complete the onslaught, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, speaking at the same United Against Nuclear Iran Summit as Bolton, accused European nations seeking to avoid U.S. sanctions over the purchase of Iranian oil as solidifying Irans ranking as the number-one state sponsor of terrorism. I imagine the corrupt ayatollahs and IGRC [Revolutionary Guards] were laughing this morning. Even the U.S. Congress has figured out that something is afoot. A bipartisan group of U.S. senators, who were carefully briefed on what to think by the Israeli government, warned after a trip to the Middle East that war between the United States and Iranian proxies is imminent. Iran is fun to kick around but China has also been on the receiving end of late. Last Wednesday the U.N. Security Council meeting was presided over by Donald Trump, who warned that Beijing is meddling in U.S. elections against him personally. It is a bizarre claim, particularly as the only country up until now demonstrated as having actually interfered in American politics in any serious way is Israel. The accusation comes on top of Washingtons latest foray into the world of sanctions, directed against the Chinese government-run Equipment Development Department of the Chinese Central Military Commission and its director Li Shangfu for engaging in significant transactions with a Russian weapons manufacturer that is on a list of U.S. sanctioned companies. The Chinese sanctions are serious business as they forbid conducting any transactions that go through the U.S. financial system. It is the most powerful weapon Washington has at its disposal. As most international transactions are conducted in dollars and pass through American banks that means that it will be impossible for the Chinese government to make weapons purchases from many foreign sources. If foreign banks attempt to collaborate with China to evade the restrictions, they too will be sanctioned. So if youre paying attention to Trump, Bolton, Mattis, Pompeo and Haley you are probably digging a new bomb shelter right now. We have told Iran that it cannot send its soldiers and proxies outside its own borders while Syria cannot have advanced missiles to defend its airspace, which Russia is on notice for providing. China also cannot buy weapons from Russia while Venezuela is also being threatened because it has what is generally believed to be a terrible government. Meanwhile, America is in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan to stay while nearly all agree a war with Iran is coming soon. Everyone is the enemy and everyone hates the United States, mostly for good reasons. If this is Making America Great Again, I think I would settle for just making America good so we could possibly have that doomsday clock go back a couple of minutes. Philip M. Giraldi, Ph.D., is Executive Director of the Council for the National Interest, a 501(c)3 tax deductible educational foundation that seeks a more interests-based U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. Website is www.councilforthenationalinterest.org, address is P.O. Box 2157, Purcellville VA 20134 and its email is inform@cnionline.org . Home Search ICH U.S. Is Determined to Fight the World Boosted by its victory in the Cold War, the United States has allowed hubris to dominate its foreign-policy decisionmaking. By Doug Bandow October 02, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - The United States sanctioned Beijing for purchasing Russian military equipment. Does the administration really believe that China will cancel the deal because of American economic pressure? Yet again Washington has deftly pushed the Peoples Republic of China toward Russia, encouraging an unnatural friendship, even alliance. America is the worlds strongest, most dominant nation. However, its power has become a problem. Hubris conquered Washington. Today the Trump administration appears determined to go to war, military, political, and/or economic, with virtually every other state. Washingtons arrogance has been long building. During the Cold War the United States was necessarily constrained. Moscow could match U.S. military force, sported numerous allies in Europe and elsewhere, and challenged America ideologically. Although the Soviet Union was weaker than commonly believedthe CIA consistently overestimated the USSRs economic strengthMoscow could counter the United States when important Soviet interests were involved. In the 1950s the USSRs influence was magnified by the Peoples Republic of China, which overthrew the U.S.-backed Nationalist regime with Soviet support. Differences between the two communist giants eventually emerged, though there was disagreement in Washington over the degree of estrangement. President Richard Nixon recognized the opportunity to exploit their division, leading to his famed trip to Beijing. President Jimmy Carter shifted American recognition from the Republic of China, based on Taiwan, to the PRC. Commerce between the PRC and America expanded dramatically, creating a solid foundation for future cooperation. Although Washington and Beijing were never military allies, their relationship appeared more secure and beneficial than that between America and Russia. The latter offered fewer economic gains but remained a significant military power. China and Russia were not particularly closeboth had more at stake with America than each other. Europe was drawn closer to Russia because of propinquity, but the continents economic ties with the PRC grew steadily. In recent years, however, the United States and its allies have adopted steadily more confrontational policies toward both nations. The Europeans hit Moscow with sanctions while Australia, Japan, the Philippines and other East Asian states enhanced their military strength and challenged China over its territorial claims. Washington took on both China and Europe. Moreover, Washington essentially acted as ringleader against both Beijing and Moscow, expanding alliances, pressing friendly states to do more militarily and impose tougher sanctions, and otherwise containing both adversaries geostrategic ambitions. There is logic behind this strategy, but Washington does not appear to have considered the impact of pursuing these policies simultaneously. American policymakers are congenitally incapable of setting priorities. For instance, the Trump administration is threatening to penalize India for purchasing Russian S-400 anti-aircraft missiles. New Delhi is an important counterweight to China and would not take kindly to such a step. Moreover, the president not only tore up the Iran nuclear deal, but threatened to penalize allied states which did not go along with its drive for something akin to regime change in Iran. This has pushed the Europeans toward both China and Russia, with plans to create an alternative to a U.S.-dominated financial system, Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter But the most dramatic impact on U.S. policy has been to consistently counteract the Nixon-Mao tectonic shift. No doubt, the dramatic transformation of the PRC, with a significant expansion of its power and reach, made some change in its relationship with the United States inevitable. However, the deterioration of ties with Russia has been far more dramatic. Putin is a bad actor, but Washington appears to have adopted a conscious policy turning Moscow into a replacement enemy for the Soviet Union. Beijing long has purchased Russian weaponsand gained a reputation for reverse engineering its acquisitions. Still, Moscow likes the revenues collected. The PRC bought Su-35 aircraft last year and S-400 missiles this year, triggering U.S. sanctions. China sharply responded to Washingtons penalties. Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang stated: We strongly urge the U.S. to immediately correct its mistakes and revoke the so-called sanctions. Otherwise, it must take all the consequences. Still, military sales are but a modest step. The two governments also have conducted joint military exercises. In September Moscow wrapped up its Vostok (east) exercise, Russias largest post-Cold War military maneuvers, which included 3200 Chinese troops. The maneuvers occurred in a region where the two states fought a brief undeclared border war a half century ago. Although the two governments did not name America, and termed the exercises defensive, "they feel they need to embrace to deal with the increasingly high pressure and containment from the U.S., opined Yue Gang, a military analyst formerly in the Chinese military. The maneuvers include an anti-access/area-denial component and seemed directed at Asian contingencies, though they also could be applied to Europe. The two governments are sending a message. Observed Jeffrey Mankoff of the Center for Strategic and International Studies: Russia is telling Beijing that China is not the focus of Russian planning in the Far East any more, and signaling to the United States and NATO that if the relationship stays bad, Russia has other options. Of course, Chinese and Russian cooperation is not unlimited. Russian General Leonid Ivashov (ret.) argued that the maneuvers are aimed at deterring the aggressive intentions of the U.S. and NATO. But this is not a military alliance, with the two governments prepared to challenge the United States for global dominance. Neither wants war with America, and certainly not on behalf of the other nations interests. Still, the exercises will improve the combat proficiency of both nations. Beijing, which last fought a war four decades ago, has much to learn from Russia, which gained important experience in Syria. Indeed, without naming an antagonist the maneuvers address the possibility of military action by Washington. Said Michael Kofman of the Center for Naval Analyses: the reality is that what theyre training and practicing against is still mostly an attack by the U.S. More serious, however, is a tighter relationship in the broader geopolitical realm. Officials in both nations speak of creating a strategic partnership. Argued Mark Simakovsky of the Atlantic Council: clearly these two countries will continue to cooperate to subvert U.S. interests in Asia. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization brings the two giants together with other Central Asian nations. Beijing and Moscow have initiated more than $100 billion worth of joint projects. American officials dismiss the threat to the U.S. Argued Defense Secretary Jim Mattis: I think that nations act out of their interests. I see little in the long term that aligns Russia and China. And differences are significant. Reversing recent experience, China is now the senior partner. Russians worry about Chinese violations of intellectual property and geopolitical ambitions in the Far East, given the dramatic population disparity. Moscow also views Beijing as posing a threat in the Arctic. Because of its significant economic strength, the PRC is making significant inroads in Central Asia, which had been part of the Soviet Union. More broadly, Russia identifies with Christendom. President Vladimir Putin has been using identification with Christian imagery and customs to his political advantage. In contrast, the Chinese leadership remains ruthlessly atheistic, hostile to the culture being promoted by Putin. Nevertheless, Washington has inadvertently created a significant shared interest uniting China and Russia, fear of a common threat. The Trump administrations national security strategy declared that both these nations were seeking to shape a world antithetical to U.S. values and interests. However, the most aggressive, unrelenting efforts to transform the world come from Washington. Despite the latters praise for stability, American policy has radically destabilized the Middle East, Central Asia, and Russian periphery. Thus, for Moscow impeding if not halting the great new imperial power is important, sometimes even vital. Assumptions that Beijing and Moscow never can come seriously together are dangerous. Wilhelmine Germany took much the same view of the prospect of revolutionary France and Tsarist Russia joining togetherwhich they did. Fear of Berlin drove the latter two into a strong alliance which ensured Germanys defeat in World War I. Confronting China and Russia together will grow tougher over time. Projecting power is expensive for Washington, while Moscow and Beijing are likely to improve their anti-access/area denial capabilities. It wont be easy to convince the American people to pour ever more money into the military to contain nations which do not directly threaten America. The deficit will approach a trillion dollars this year and climb in the future, absent serious fiscal reform, which neither party supports. As the costs of entitlements explode, Americas retirees are unlikely to sacrifice their Social Security and Medicare benefits to protect wealthy allies. This will force Washington policymakers to prioritize. The United States will have to decide which country poses the greater potential threat in the future. Surely that nation is China. Despite many uncertainties, including potentially significant demographic and economic challenges, the PRC is the superpower-in-waiting. Russia, in contrast, is in decline. Its economy is based on resources, its population is shrinking, its wealth dramatically lags behind that of Europe as well as America. Most important, Moscows ambitions appear bounded: Russia today acts like a pre-1914 Great Power, demanding respect for its interests and security for its borders. Nothing suggests further aggression against its neighbors. For most of its recent history Crimea was part of Russia; backing Donbass separatists created a frozen conflict which prevents Ukraine from joining NATO; supporting formally independent Abkhazia and South Ossetia does much the same to Georgia, while providing payback to the United States for Kosovo. While unjustified, these are tactical maneuvers, not a plan for regional, let alone global, conquest. Which suggests that Washington should look for accommodation rather than confrontation with Russia. The West risks permanent estrangement for no good policy purpose. The United States can rightly insist that Moscow stay out of American elections, but the former should make a similar pledge regarding foreign contests. Beyond that there surely is potential for a deal: take NATO expansion off the table in return for an end to Russian destabilization of Georgia and Ukraine. Then drop sanctions. And draw Moscow toward the West. The objective would not be to push Vladimir Putin into war with China, but to eliminate the disagreements which bring Beijing and Moscow together, the perception of a shared threat from America. Then the U.S. would disperse rather accumulate potential adversaries. Washingtons punitive policies have proved far better at making enemies than friends. American policymakers would do better focusing on practical U.S. security rather than succumbing to abstract moral vanity. Richard Nixon, despite his obvious faults, understood the principle of dividing potential foes. President Donald Trump and those around him should learn from history. Doug Bandow is a senior fellow at the Cato Institute. A former special assistant to President Ronald Reagan, he is author of Foreign Follies: Americas New Global Empire. Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here. ==See Also== Note To ICH Community We ask that you assist us in dissemination of the article published by ICH to your social media accounts and post links to the article from other websites. Thank you for your support. Peace and joy Search Information Clearing House === Click Here To Support Information Clearing House Your support has kept ICH free on the Web since 2002. Click for Spanish , German , Dutch , Danish , French , translation- Note- Translation may take a moment to load. By Eric London October 02, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - Across the United States, under cover of darkness, the government is rounding up immigrant children and sending them to a desert concentration camp in Tornillo, Texas, near the US-Mexico border. In recent weeks, hundreds have been transferred from foster shelters to Tornillo, where they live in tents, 20 to a room. The New York Times spoke with employees at shelters who described scenes that recall the most shameful episodes in American history, including the capture of fugitive slaves, the forced removal of Native Americans from their land, and the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War Two. According to the Times, In order to avoid escape attempts, the moves are carried out late at night because children will be less likely to try to run away. For the same reason, children are generally given little advance warning that they will be moved. With the children in a panic, some shelter employees reportedly cry when officials descend upon their facilities. Others protest and raise concerns about the safety of the children at the desert concentration camp, to no avail. Children beg to know whether they will be taken care of at their new location. Phone numbers for their emergency contacts are written on belts tied around the childrens waists. Roughly 13,000 children are currently detained in shelters and immigration detention facilities nationwide, a record high. Conditions in immigration detention centers and shelters are deplorable, with children reporting cases of rape, sexual abuse and physical violence. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is expanding the size of the Tornillo tent city, which currently houses 1,600 immigrant youth, to 4,000. Starting in November and extending through March, the average daily low temperature will be below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The Trump administration will soon begin detaining children indefinitely, having pulled out of the Flores settlement, a court agreement that barred the government from detaining immigrant children for more than 20 days. The administration has also been arresting, detaining and deporting relatives of detained children who submitted official applications to sponsor the children. The midnight Gestapo-style roundup of children has been treated as a non-event by the two big business parties and the corporate media. Instead, the entire political and media establishment is focused exclusively on the allegation that Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted Christine Blasey Ford at a party in 1982, when they were both teenagers. The Democratic Partys focus on Kavanaughs alleged sexual assault is a deliberate effort to distract from his record as a defender of indefinite detention and torture under the Bush administration. Democrats have covered up the fact that in 2017 Kavanaugh ruled to deny a detained 17-year-old immigrant the right to abort a pregnancy on the grounds that immigrants are not entitled to basic rights. Speaking Saturday in Austin, Texas, Democratic House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi made revealing comments about the Democratic Partys midterm election strategy. She advised candidates not to focus on Trumps attacks on immigrants, explaining that calling for shutting down ICE [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] merely serves the presidents purpose. According to the Texas Tribune, Pelosi said she has told Democratic candidates that focusing on the issue would waste energy. Despite its claims to be an anti-racist party, the Democratic Party is orienting itself toward Trumps anti-immigrant chauvinism. On September 26, nearly 70 percent of Democrats in the House of Representatives voted either yes or present on a resolution recognizing that allowing illegal immigrants the right to vote devalues the franchise and diminishes the voting power of the United States citizens. Keith Ellison, a leader of the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, was among those who voted in favor of the anti-immigrant resolution. The same day as the congressional vote, Democratic California Governor Jerry Brown vetoed a state bill that would have barred immigration officials from arresting immigrants at courthouses. Brown also extended the deployment of the states National Guard on the Mexican border. Following the Democrats lead, many political groups that call themselves socialist but in reality function as factions of the Democratic Party, have dropped the defense of immigrants. The International Socialist Organization has not published an article on the US governments attacks on immigrants since September 10. Socialist Alternative and Jacobin magazine, which is linked to the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), have not published articles on the US immigration situation since August 24 and August 22, respectively. The fall issue of the DSAs magazine Democratic Left does not include a single reference to the attacks on immigrants. The Socialist Equality Party views the defense of immigrants as an urgent question not only for immigrants themselves, but for the defense of the democratic rights of the working class as a whole. The attack on immigrants is an attack on the working class. There are 20 million undocumented immigrants in the US, comprising a significant section of the working population. While the ruling class seeks to divide different sections of workers against one another, the fight against corporate power and social inequality is impossible without the unity of immigrant and non-immigrant workers. Moreover, the police state methods currently employed against immigrants will be used against all workers and political opponents of the government. The federal government is building a network of concentration camps and empowering state agencies to break down doors, set up checkpoints, conduct military-style workplace raids and haul people off without due process. This is a powerful mechanism of state repression that the ruling class will use against striking workers and demonstrators. The defense of immigrant workers is necessary to establish the unity of the working class internationally. In almost every country, immigrants comprise a significant section of the working class, and everywhere their rights are under attack. In Germany, Poland, Hungary, Austria and across Europe, governments are adopting the anti-immigrant policies of neo-Nazi parties in an effort to pit workers against each other and block the growth of the class struggle. Nationalists like Bernie Sanders claim that immigrants weaken the position of the working class. To the contrary, the presence of large international populations within each country testifies to the global character of production and the global character of the working class. It reflects the objective identity of interests of workers of all countries and all national origins, who face the same conditions of exploitation at the hands of the same transnational corporations. Workers today have an unprecedented opportunity to open lines of communication between one another across national boundaries and strengthen their position against their common corporate enemies. The fight to secure the basic democratic and social rights of the working class requires a resolute defense of the rights of immigrants and unqualified opposition to all forms of racism and national chauvinism. The Socialist Equality Party demands: The immediate release all detained immigrants and the dismantling of immigrant concentration camps and prisons The abolition of ICE, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and all immigration-related enforcement agencies internationally The prosecution of all government officials responsible for jailing immigrants and immigrant children Immediate citizenship for all undocumented people wherever they reside The de-militarization of borders and dismantling of border checkpoints to allow free and safe passage The guaranteed right of workers to travel and move about the world as they please. Workers must revive the time-honored slogan An injury to one is an injury to all! This is a necessary prerequisite for the development of an international revolutionary socialist movement. This article was originally published by " WSWS " - Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here. ==See Also== Note To ICH Community We ask that you assist us in dissemination of the article published by ICH to your social media accounts and post links to the article from other websites. Thank you for your support. Peace and joy Governor Akinwunmi Ambode will address a press conference at 2:30pm today. This, may be to address issues concerning the emergence of Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as the All Progressives Congress(APC) governorship candidate. The governor, who lost to his rival in the governorship primary election, which held in Lagos on Tuesday, had on Sunday, addressed a world press conference, in which he accused Sanwo-Olu of being mentally unfit for the position of governor. Chairman, Lagos Chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Tunde Balogun has declared Babajide Sanwo-Olu the winner of the recently held gubernatorial primary election. The primaries which held Tuesday, across 245 wards of the 20 Local Government Areas in Lagos, saw Sanwo-Olu poll a total of 970, 851 while the incumbent governor, Akinwumi Ambode got 72,901 With this, Sanwoolu will be representing APC as its flag-bearer for the 2019 governorship elections in Lagos State. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commissin(EFCC) has asked a federal High Court sitting in Lagos to dismiss a motion filed by a former Minister of State for Finance, Mrs. Esther Nenadi Usman, seeking to commit the Information Minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, to prison for alleged contempt. Mrs. Usman had in a motion on notice filed through her lawyer, Chief Ferdinand Orbih (SAN) argued that it was contemptuous for of her name to be included on the looters list released by the information minister during the pendency of an alleged fraud case. The defendants lawyer, Chief Orbih (SAN),had alleged that the information minister by his action pre-judged his clients case before the court, therefore urging the court to grant the motion. The information ministers action undermines the integrity of the court and is aimed at poisoning the mind of the public against the applicant. Assuming at the end of proceedings, the defendants were cleared of the alleged offence, the integrity of the court will be put to rest owing to the information ministers action. In the absence of any denial by the alleged contemnor, there was no need for the applicant to attach any advertorial from the ministry of information. What is required at this stage is minimal proof in the absence of any specific denial by the alleged contemnor, he said. However, counsel to EFCC, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo, urged the court to decline the Nenadis request for the information minister to be summoned to explain why he should not be committed to prison over his action. The minister of information is not a party to the criminal proceedings against the applicant. There is no evidence to show that the alleged contemnor works with the various media houses that published the alleged offensive publication. Besides, there were no allegations against the media houses that published the alleged offensive publication. There was nothing that connects the ministry of information to the motion which was taken out to annoy the prosecution. The motion is lacking in substance, it is an abuse of courts process and should be dismissed, he said. The judge, Justice Mohammed Aikawa has reserved ruling on the motion to November 16, 2018. The All Progressives Congress(APC) governorship primary election has been upheld by relevant authorities, though earlier cancellation had lifted the hopes of some supporters. As it stands, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been declared winner, displacing incumbent Governor Akinwumi Ambode. Many Nigerians have received the news with mixed feeling and heres what they had to say about the outcome of the election. Take a look below: Rochas son-inlaw came a distant 7th in Imo State APC primaries. Godfatherism doesnt work in the South East. Everyone is a strong man. That kind of feudal overlord leadership that is pervasive in the South West is dead on arrival in South East. #LagosAPCPrimaries pic.twitter.com/AAzXAIOKv8 ThankGod Ukachukwu (@kcnaija) October 2, 2018 https://twitter.com/Ceorhemz/status/1047054456989331457?s=19 The way Sanwoolu is flogging Ambode eh, you'll think that it is a contest between a Rhinoceros and a sheep. Ambode is a weakling or practically confused. If you can't fight, leave with your head held high. Now he will leave in shame. #LagosAPCPrimaries Victor (@ndulewe) October 2, 2018 #LagosAPCPrimaries The people you see outside today are the people Tinubu listens to first, they are his primary concern. He has also surrounded himself with smart elites to enrich his base. He is not a godfather, he is a smarter politician. Dr. Guendouzi (Amotekun ) (@fimiletoks) October 2, 2018 Irrespective of whatever Tinubus influence is and it is big Ambode must ask himself how he managed to alienate such a huge cross section of his party to be inflicted with a humiliation this spectacular #LagosAPCPrimaries Colin NOT Collins (@ColinUdoh) October 2, 2018 People are failing to see that it's not about tinubu, the party members are the ones making this call. They stood with fashola when jagaban was against him, remember? #LagosAPCPrimaries Azeez Lateef (@Holla_sunkanmi) October 2, 2018 This Ambode situation reminds me of when Chelsea won the UCL and tried to defend it the next season Won ja ni group stage danu #LagosAPCPrimaries NASA chief to the Moon (@beebzy_) October 2, 2018 I'm waiting for @AkinwunmiAmbode to lose the primaries, decamp to another party and yet win the governorship election.. That will be twist of fate! That will be separation of power! That will be a new Lagos! That will be the change we desire!#LagosAPCFraud #LagosAPCPrimaries Man of the People (@diranabiola) October 1, 2018 This #LagosAPCPrimaries Is Not About Tinubu Being Godfather, Ambode Lost The Public That Voted Him In, And If Tinubu Backs Him, Tinubu Will Risk Losing The Same Public That Believe In His Leadership People Are Not That Stupid, Its Clear That Sanwo Olu is The One Eko Wants. Uwabunkoye Onu ( ) (@Uwabunkoye) October 2, 2018 It is only in Nigeria Politics that people will fight you just because you are not sharing the national cake. A True democrat can never contest and win election in Nigeria & if he eventually wins, he will be disgraced out of office. This is the case of Ambode #LagosAPCPrimaries Adesanya Adebayo A. (@Adebayoadesanya) October 2, 2018 https://twitter.com/Tola_Shola/status/1047065410556833792?s=19 Vanguard YENAGOABAYELSA State governor, Mr Seriake Dickson, has said that Nigeria is sitting on a keg of gunpowder, as the country has become more divided due to leadership failure that has polarised the people along ethnic, religious and political lines. The Sun Chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), Senator Kabir Garba Marafa, has urged members of the All Progressives Congress in Zamfara State to remain calm and come out for todays primaries, despite Governor AbdulAziz Yaris threat. Guardian Leadership Following the conduct of ongoing party primaries in about 30 states of the federation, the political coast for the 2019 Governorship contest is becoming clearer as contenders are now been separated from pretenders. Daily Times Trouble In Paradise? Lagos APC Chairmain Defies NWC, Declares Sanwo-Olu Winner Of Primaries The Chairman of the Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress, Mr. Tunde Balogun, last night declared Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu as the winner of the partys governorship primary despite the National Working Committee panel sent from Abuja to oversee the election had declared the primary invalid. Daily Trust The General Court Martial (GCM), 7 Division of Nigeria Armysitting in Maiduguri, on Tuesday, sentenced two soldiers ; Sgt Aliyu Hassan and Corporal Nasiru Bello to 10 years in prison each for abduction and forcefully receiving the sum of N1 million from victims. ThisDay Oshiomhole: The election has been held, anyone who is aggrieved should complain after the declaration of results The Nation MEDFORD, Ore. UPDATE: A fire at the Sis-Q Motel in Medford on Tuesday was the result of arson, according the Medford Police Department (MPD). The man suspected of starting the fire is in police custody. MPD said that officers responded along with firefighters from Medford Fire and Rescue just after 4:40 p.m. on Tuesday after reports of a structure fire. They found Room 114 on the second floor of the motel "fully engulfed." Emergency services evacuated all of the rooms in the motel, finding six people who were inside when the fire started. However, the resident of Room 114, a Jesus Garcia, was not present when they arrived. Just a few hours after the fire, law enforcement arrested 34-year-old Jesus Ernesto Garcia in Central Point for a Parole Violation due to Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. When Garcia was interviewed in jail, MPD said that he admitted to purposefully starting the fire. Although no one was injured in the fire, MPD said that the motel was "heavily damaged." Garcia is now charged with First Degree Arson and Parole Violation - Failure to Register Sex Offender. He is being held without bail. (Updated 10/4/18 at 4:40 p.m.) INITIAL REPORT: A structure fire at the Sis-Q motel in downtown Medford damaged multiple rooms and displaced 10 people, according to fire officials at the scene. Flames were pouring from a window in the middle of the building when firefighters arrived around 4:40 p.m. on Tuesday. After crews knocked down the flames, they found that two or three of the rooms were damaged. Crews shut down Riverside Avenue for about 30 minutes in order to let firefighters work on the fire. No one was injured in the fire, and the American Red Cross responded to help the 10 people displaced. Investigation on the fire's cause remains ongoing. EUGENE, Ore. A Grants Pass man will serve three months in federal prison for his part in an opioid trafficking ring that included a group of conspirators in Southern Oregon and California, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Oregon. 37-year-old Brett Allen McNeal was convicted of distributing oxycodone in the interstate organization. Prosecutors say that the organization stemmed from Daniel Cham, a doctor who was practicing in La Puente, California at the time. Cham would illegally hand out prescriptions for oxycodone, hydrocodone, and other powerful drugs in exchange for money orders and cash. The drugs were then moved through a network north from Southern California to eventually be sold in Oregon. At a time when the opioid crisis continues to worsen in Oregon, some medical providers aim to profit off addiction," said U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams. "The drug trafficking network that grew from Dr. Chams criminal activity contributed to the overdose deaths of two people, including a young woman here in Oregon. Cham would write prescriptions for people he knew, others he didn't, and even some well-known drug dealers and addicts. He regularly sold prescriptions to John Bryden, an Oregonian, who would then sell them to other co-conspirators for distribution. This conduct is reprehensible. Criminal organizations who traffic opioids will be dismantled, person-by-person, until every last participant has been prosecuted, said Williams. Prosecutors say that McNeal purchased oxycodone from a man named Austin Alderet, then sold it for profit to "end users." One of those end users, Jessica Morretti, died of an overdose on April 13, 2012. According to text messages on Morettis cell phone from the evening she overdosed, McNeal had provided her with five 30mg oxycodone pills the same day. An analysis of post-mortem toxicology reports indicated that the lethal amount of oxycodone in Morettis system could have come from multiple sources, including McNeal. Corrupt doctors and dealers who cash in on the opioid epidemic are fueling the cycle of dependence and addiction in our community. In doing so, they put lives at risk and make it that much more difficult for the most vulnerable to overcome the pull of these narcotics, said Renn Cannon, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon. McNeal later admitted to law enforcement that he had purchased the pills from Alderete on multiple occasions. This is a health care problem, a crime problem and a societal problem - and one that will take many partners working together to address fully," said Cannon. McNeal is the sixth and final defendant in the organization to be sentenced. The others are as follows: Daniel Cham, 49, of Covina, California 160 months in prison and three years supervised release (sentenced in the Central District of California) Kevin Grimes, 46, of Calimesa, California 37 months in prison and three years supervised release Austin Alderete, 32, no known residence 21 months in prison and three years supervised release Maricela Ann Cooper, 27, of Central Point, Oregon time served in prison and three years supervised release Laurie Ryan, 59, of Jackson County, Oregon 18 months probation (sentenced in Jackson County Circuit Court) Prosecutors say that Tracy Townsend, a high-level co-conspirator of Chams from California, remains at large. John Bryden died before being prosecuted. Lameness prevention: it's all in the head An understanding of how cows think, how they see the world and how they move is essential for lameness prevention. About 100 people will receive medals during this years national independence celebrations at Kasasa sub county, Kyotera District, according to the latest statement. President Yoweri Museveni who will be the chief guest will bestow the medals on the recipients. The Day will celebrated under the theme: Standing Tall to Celebrate 56 Years of Independence. Stories Continues after ad Infrastructure: According to the statement released for the independence celebrations, Uganda now has over 5200 kilometers of tarmac roads. Several oil roads are being constructed, at the same time an airport at Kabale in the Albertine region is under construction to prepare the country to harness oil by 2020, it says. The statement says the above will be supplemented by a USD 3.5 billion pipeline from Hoima to Tanga to ease export of the elude oil. Expansion works at Entebbe International Airport to enable it handle the increased traffic are as well ongoing, it says, adding that preparations for the commencement of works on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) are also in advanced stages. When complete, the SGR will considerably lower the cost of Transport to and from Mombasa, it says. The stamen says much of this work has been done by the Uganda Government money. For instance, 58 percent of the funding for roads, has been done or is being done by the Government of Uganda money, it says. According to the statement, all the District headquarters, except for Kaabong and Buvuma, have now been connected to the national grid. And that the generation capacity of Uganda will further increase, once Isimba, Karuma and many of the mini-hydro power stations are completed. Agriculture The statement notes that during the financial year 2017/18, the agriculture sector grew at 3.2 percent, Industry (at 6.2%) per annum), services (at 7.3%) and ICT (at 7.9%). However, it says agriculture registered the least growth in Uganda, adding that the slow growth in agriculture continues to be a cause of concern. MEDFORD, Ore. Local health professionals are better armed to combat the opioid crisis in Southern Oregon after receiving a $295,000 grant, according to a statement from Rogue Community Health (RCH). RCH said that it has slated the grant money for the renovation of their health center at 19 Myrtle Street in Medford with the intention of having the resources to better facilitate medication-assisted treatment, behavioral health counseling, and the care of patients with substance use disorders. It also plans to hire additional staff to meet rising demand. There is still so much work to be done, said Daniel Weiner, DO, Chief Medical Officer for RCH. This funding will help RCH greatly enhance access to both addiction and mental health services in our community." The Department of Health and Human Services (HRSA) awarded $352 million to a total of 1,232 health centers 25 of which are in Oregon, according to RCH. These grants are earmarked for expanding access to those suffering from mental health and substance use disorders, and represents an effort to address the opioid crisis across the U.S. part of the Department of Health & Human Resources and Services Administration's "Five-Point Opioid Strategy," which began last year. Jackson County issued a "yellow alert" on September 27 in response to a spike in reports of accidental overdoses from illegal opioid drugs all of them non-fatal, thanks in large part to the drug Naloxone (Narcan), which first responders now keep on hand to reverse the effects of potentially lethal overdoses. PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) Young people questioned Oregon's main gubernatorial candidates on topics ranging from foster care to gun restrictions to bullying at the candidates' first debate in Portland Tuesday evening. Democratic Gov. Kate Brown, Republican Knute Buehler and Patrick Starnes of the Independent Party met at the event dubbed the Debate for our Future. The candidates sparred most intensely over the topic of education funding specifically related to underrepresented groups such as Native Americans. Buehler said the single biggest failure of Brown's administration was that not enough money was getting into the classroom because too much of it goes to state and local government employees' pension plans. Brown said she was proud of a measure that allowed tribal elders to teach native languages in public schools to all students and that by significantly investing in underserved communities, graduation rates have gone up. Later, 15-year-old Rose Lawrence from Portland repeatedly asked the candidates what they would do as governor to make schools safe for LGBTQ youth after saying she didn't think the candidates had answered her question. Brown mentioned among other ideas an anti-bullying policy for safe and secure schools and encouraged students to speak out. Buehler said he'd continue the good work of Brown on the issue and said students should report bullying directly to the governor's office. Both mentioned hiring more teachers and counselors and those that better reflect a diverse population. "I would hire you," Starnes told Lawrence to audience applause. Buehler, a prominent Republican in the Oregon Legislature, beat two main rivals in the GOP gubernatorial primary. Buehler was the most centrist of the Republican front-runners. Brown was first appointed governor in February 2015 after John Kitzhaber resigned. She easily was elected in her own right in 2016 to finish out the term of Kitzhaber, who resigned amid accusations of influence peddling involving his fiancee. The next two debates are scheduled for Oct. 4 in Medford and Oct. 9 in Portland. Dr. Michelle Oakley, centre, poses for a photo flanked by her two oldest daughters Maya, left, and Sierra in an undated handout photo. Oakleys love of animals began in her native Indiana where she spent summers on her uncles dairy farm. She grew up a big fan of Jane Goodall, watching the famed anthropologists TV specials over and over again. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-National Geographic Wild, *MANDATORY CREDIT* The town of Peachland has bought this property after its owners failed to pay taxes for the past three years. The owners have until next September to pay the taxes and reclaim ownership. The First Instance Division dismissed Dr Mpozayo Christophes Case against the Government of Rwanda over his arrest, detention, prosecution conviction and sentencing for the offence of inciting insurrection amongst the population for being in possession of ammunition. The Applicant, who is a Rwandan Citizen and former Staff of the Community in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), was seeking Court orders to declare that the government infringed the fundamental Principles of the Community as well as Rwandan Laws. In ruling Court held that it is not satisfied by the Applicant that Criminal Case was conducted against universally accepted principles of law, therefore declaration against his arrest, detention, trial and imprisonment being unlawful was declined. Stories Continues after ad Further Court said that the Applicant has not proved violation of the principles of law enshrined in Articles 6(d) and 7 (2) or the Treaty, hence Court not satisfied and declined to declare that the Republic of Rwanda violated the EAC Treaty and principles of good governance and rule of law as well as his conviction was unlawful as sought by the Applicant. In addition Court considered that granting orders that the sentence imposed on the Applicant in Criminal Case be set aside as well as an order that the Applicants conviction be hereby set aside, would be tantamount to exercise an appellate jurisdiction over national courts, which jurisdiction the court is not clothed with, hence such orders sought declined to be granted. On the prayer Court to award general damages to the Applicant, the Court said that it may award general damages in an appropriate case, however, in this case, it we are unable to do so because the Applicant has not proved his claims in his Reference hence prayer was declined. Similarly, Court found no basis to award aggravated and exemplary damages as sought by the Applicant, having not succeeded in his case. Furthermore, Court noted that, the Applicant in his Written Submissions raised a claim for his unpaid monthly earning. Court retaliated that, such a claim is akin to a claim for special damages and that it is according to the law, that specific damages must be pleaded and proved. That In this case, they were not pleaded. In any event, the Applicant has not even succeeded in the Reference, hence the prayer was disallowed. In conclusion, the Court said that, with regard to the prayer for costs, as stated in Rule 111(1), costs follow the event unless the Court for good reasons otherwise orders. In this case, the Applicant having failed to prove his claims under this Reference, he would not be entitled to costs. Ordinarily, he should be subjected to pay costs to the Respondent. However, the Court is aware that the Applicant could not afford to engage a lawyer to represent him initially and that the ones that represented him subsequently were doing so under a legal aid brief by the East African Law Society. In the circumstance, it is in the interest of justice that each party bears its own costs. The Lawyer representing the Applicant, after the Judgment was delivered, he requested Court to provide him with the copies of the pleadings and the Judgment to enable him Appeal to the Appellate Division. The Judgment was delivered by Honorouble Lady Justice Monica Mugenyi, (Principal Judge), Justice Isaac Lenaola (Deputy Principal Judge), Justice Dr Faustin Ntezilyayo, Justice Fakihi Jundu, and Justice Audace Ngiye The Applicant was represented by Mr Joel Kimutai Bosek and Ms Moureen Okoth while the Respondent was represented by Counsel Arnest William holding brief for Nicholas Ntarugera Counsel for the Respondent AG Rwanda Sebelum Anda bermain, Anda perlu mengetahui apa yang Anda butuhkan untuk masuk ke dalam permainan roulette kasino online ini. Jika Anda sudah mendaftar di situs judi casino online dan sudah memberikan user ID, login terlebih dahulu dan pilih menu live casino yang tertera di situs judi tersebut. Pertama pilih dealer dan putuskan sendiri, lalu pilih meja atau kursi di dalam ruangan. Jika namanya tertera dan berwarna coklat, maka kursi tersebut sudah ditempati oleh pemain lain, dan pilihlah kursi kosong berwarna hitam. Kasino Roulette adalah salah satu permainan paling populer di situs perjudian kasino. Jadi dalam permainan ini kamu harus menebak angka berapa yang akan keluar. Ada 36 nomor berbeda dalam permainan populer ini di mana sebuah bola kecil diputar dan dilemparkan ke dalam mesin roulette. Anda harus menebak dari mana bola kecil itu masuk dan di nomor berapa ia berhenti. Ada banyak jenis pilihan angka dari 0-36, dan mereka dihitung secara berbeda. Sebagai agen casino terpercaya, panduan permainan roulette ini juga memberikan informasi tentang jenis pilihan dan nama permainan roulette casino online sebagai berikut: Jika Anda ingin bermain roulette di situs kasino online, caranya sangat sederhana. Anda dapat bermain di Kasino ION, Kasino Sbobet, dan Situs Kasino. Di bawah ini adalah artikel panduan bermain di mana Anda dapat mempelajari roulette langsung dan memainkannya di situs judi online mana pun. tangkapan layar Sebelum Anda bermain, Anda perlu mengetahui apa yang Anda butuhkan untuk masuk ke dalam permainan roulette kasino online ini. Jika Anda sudah mendaftar di situs judi casino online dan sudah memberikan user ID, login terlebih dahulu dan pilih menu live casino yang tertera di situs judi online tersebut. Pertama pilih dealer dan putuskan sendiri, lalu pilih meja atau kursi di dalam ruangan. Jika namanya tertera dan berwarna coklat, maka kursi tersebut sudah ditempati oleh pemain lain, dan pilihlah kursi kosong berwarna hitam. Panduan Bermain Online Kasino Roulette Kasino Roulette adalah salah satu permainan paling populer di situs perjudian kasino. Jadi dalam permainan ini kamu harus menebak angka berapa yang akan keluar. Ada 36 nomor berbeda dalam permainan populer ini di mana sebuah bola kecil diputar dan dilemparkan ke dalam mesin roulette. Anda harus menebak dari mana bola kecil itu masuk dan di nomor berapa ia berhenti. Ada banyak jenis pilihan angka dari 0-36, dan mereka dihitung secara berbeda. Sebagai agen casino terpercaya, panduan permainan roulette ini juga memberikan informasi tentang jenis pilihan dan nama permainan roulette casino online sebagai berikut: 1. Straight Up: Penempatan angka tunggal dari 0 hingga 36. Contoh perhitungan straight up adalah mengalikan taruhan dengan 35. Ini adalah jenis taruhan tertinggi dalam permainan roulette kasino, jadi 50 dikalikan dengan 35 memberi Anda 1750, mengapa jenis taruhan ini menghasilkan pengembalian yang begitu tinggi? Hal ini karena tidak mudah untuk memenangkan pilihan nomor dengan memilih hanya satu nomor dari banyak. 2. Taruhan split: Jenis taruhan yang ditempatkan pada dua angka atau di antara dua angka yang berbeda. Misalnya, menempatkan di sela-sela angka 9 dan 12 atau 13d dan 14 dihitung sebagai jenis taruhan split. Setiap nomor dapat ditempatkan dalam jenis ini selama nomor tersebut berdekatan dan persis seperti Gambar A dan B. Untuk taruhan ini, jika Anda memenangkan contoh dan mengalikannya dengan 850, Anda akan menerima jumlah taruhan yang dikalikan dengan 17. . 3. Taruhan jalanan: bertaruh dengan 3 angka ke bawah, misalnya 1,2,3 atau 10,11,12. Semua taruhan jalan akan menerima kemenangan dikalikan dengan 11. Misalnya, 50 dikalikan 550. 4. Taruhan sudut: Jenis taruhan di mana empat angka ditempatkan saling berhadapan, seperti 13,14,16,17 atau 19,20,22,23. Semua angka valid karena terdiri dari 4 angka yang diisi seperti kotak dan taruhan dikalikan 8 (misalnya 50 kali 800). 5. Taruhan baris: Atau, Anda dapat mengatakan bahwa ada 6 jenis taruhan yang terdiri dari 2 baris, tetapi 6 poin dengan 2 peregangan, seperti taruhan jalanan. Misalnya, jika Anda memilih angka 7 hingga 12 dan 13 hingga 18, taruhan 50 adalah 5 kali dan kemudian dikalikan dengan 250 kemenangan. 6. Kolom Inner Bet: Jenis taruhan vertikal dengan 12 poin berturut-turut, seperti kolom numerik 1,4,7,10,13,19,22,25,25,28,22,24,34 atau kolom lainnya. Dan jika dia memenangkan kolom, 50 taruhan digandakan dan 100 taruhan. 7. Lusin : Jenis taruhan menempatkan 12 angka tetapi menempatkannya pada kotak berbentuk seperti contoh Kolom A dengan angka 1 sampai 12 dan odds dengan kolom lain untuk dipilih dengan memilih 1 kotak pertama untuk Kolom A. Kalikan dengan 2, 50 taruhan 100. 8. Zero part : Cara bertaruh 0.1,2,3 sama persis seperti di gambar, karena berdekatan dengan angka 0, anda hanya bisa bertaruh 0.1,2,3. Menempatkan taruhan ini mengalikannya dengan 50. hingga 8. 9. Zero Corner: Bertaruh pada angka 0.1,2 atau 0.2,3 adalah dua pilihan karena Anda hanya bertaruh mendekati angka nol. Jenis taruhan ini dikalikan 11 jika taruhan menang. 10. Two Dozen: Jenis taruhan dengan hanya dua pilihan: 1-18 atau 19-36. Jika taruhan Anda adalah 50, itu dikalikan dengan 1 hingga 50 jika Anda menang. 11. Merah atau Hitam: Masukkan taruhan Anda dengan memilih Merah atau Hitam sebagai warna angka yang muncul saat taruhan 50. 12. Genap/Ganjil: Pilih angka yang menghasilkan jumlah jenis taruhan ganjil. This blog may be a labor of love for me, but it takes a lot of effort, time and money. For over 14 years and 30,000 articles I have been providing accurate, original news that would have remained unnoticed. I've written hundreds of scoops and sometimes my reporting ends up making a real difference. I appreciate any donations you can give to keep this blog going. UPDATE -- Jaycee Johnson was released from jail Monday, according to Lane County Jail officials. Those jail officials said he was released because the Lane County District Attorney's Office did not file on the charges against the suspect by his scheduled arraignment on Oct. 1. _________________________________ SPRINGFIELD, Ore. -- Springfield Police have arrested a suspected dealer they believe to be responsible for at least some of the drug overdoses over the last several weeks. 32-year-old Jaycee Wayne Johnson was charged on suspicion of possession, manufacture and delivery of heroin and fentanyl after police served a search warrant on his home on Friday. He also is suspected of possession of methamphetamine. Formal charges have not yet been filed and the investigation is ongoing. During the search, police also found a gram of China White, a fentanyl-based drug believed to be involved in some of the overdoses that occurred in Eugene and Springfield. One of the victims told police that the drug he consumed was a substance that he called "China White." Police believe what has been called China White is similar to heroin, but is all or part fentanyl and is many times more potent than heroin. Police said they believe those who overdosed were using their common dosages believing they were using heroin, when in fact they were using all or part fentanyl. PORTLAND, Ore. (KGW) -- Voters got their first look at Oregon's gubernatorial candidates in a debate format Tuesday night, with a twist: Most people asking the questions werent old enough to vote. They were students from all over the state, who addressed the candidates on stage at Roosevelt High School. One of those students was 15-year-old Kai Schrosk from Colton High School. Schrosk asked what the candidates would do to help prevent teen suicide and improve the overall mental health among high-risk groups. In response, Rep. Knute Buehler talked about the suicide prevention hotline, Lines for Life. Help lines that people can call -- youth can call -- and talk with peers, offered Buehler, as an example of help. Peers that understand the challenges of being a youth. Gov. Kate Brown touched on the need for state-wide comprehensive school-based health programs. I think it's absolutely key that we have access to school nurses in every single one of our schools, Brown said. After the debate, Schrosk weighed in on the candidates responses. [You have to] speak your mind, don't worry if it's polite, Lawrence said. What matters is if you expose if they really are interested in the issue or not and what theyre going to do. ROSEBURG, Ore. -- With Umpqua Dairys new pink ice cream, you can enjoy a treat and help raise money for breast cancer awareness at the same time. Breast Cancer Awareness Month kicked off with the release of the huckleberry cheesecake ice cream flavor. A percentage of the sales is being donated to the Susan G. Komen foundation. The limited-time flavor is available in most Safeway, Albertsons, Fred Meyer, WinCo and Walmart locations in Oregon, along with hundreds of independent stores. Umpqua Dairy said they are hoping to raise $10,000. They also said this year theyre helping people impacted by breast cancer. One person per week will be selected to receive free groceries. To submit a nomination, click here. SPRINGFIELD, Ore. -- The victim of a stabbing in Walton on Sunday is sharing her story of how she fought for her life and is thanking the people who she said helped saved her life. Adrienne Wurts, 42, of Florence is recovering at PeaceHealth Riverbend after she said her ex-boyfriend, David Lucius, stabbed her over a dozen times. Wurts said she lost a lot of blood in the attack and some of the stab wounds punctured her lungs. "All that kept going through my mind is I didn't want to die, I don't want to die," Wurts said. "But if I do, please, I want to go to heaven. I thought I was, I really did." RELATED: MAN ACCUSED OF STABBING WOMAN IN WALTON Wurts said she went to the Walton Store on Sunday night to meet Lucius so she could get the title of her car from him. She said when he went to give her a hug, he started stabbing her. Wurts said she fought back, and her hands have stitches on them she said she got when she held the blade of the knife. Just when she thought her life was about to end, she said a complete stranger tackled Lucius, who drove off. She said other bystanders put pressure on her stab wounds until first responders arrived. "I know I'll never see them again, but I'm ever so grateful because if weren't for them I wouldn't be here, they came just in time," Wurts said. Lucius was later arrested near the California border and is now facing attempted murder charges. Wurts said she hopes he spends the rest of his life behind bars. "He needs to go to prison and stay there until he dies. Unfortunately, that's how I feel," Wurts said. Wurts said she hopes to be released from the hospital on Friday. She said she may have trouble breathing and moving her fingers for the rest of her life and the mental injuries will never heal. The family of the victim has set up a donation account to help get her back on her feet when she is released from the hospital. To donate, click here. Corvallis, Ore. -- Oregon State defesnive coordinator Tim Tibesar speaks with the media during his weekly Wednesday availability. Tibesar talks about defending Washington State's air raid offense, how playing against Nevada could help them against the Cougars, and the play of Gardner Minshew. Oregon State will host the Washinton State Cougars October 6th, at 6:00 p.m in Reser Stadium. MASON CITY, Iowa An Ames man reaches a plea deal over a Mason City assault. Police say Jared Michael Kropf, 29, hit a man in the face with a pocket knife on June 8. Officers say the knife blade was not unfolded. The victim suffered a fractured orbital bone on the right side of his face. Kropfs trial was scheduled to start on Tuesday but he has entered a guilty plea to assault causing bodily injury. He has been sentenced to 160 days in jail and ordered to pay a $315 fine. SIOUX CITY, Iowa A Wright County man is going to federal prison for dealing meth. Joe Ramon Santillan, 46 of Eagle Grove, was convicted in March of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. He admitted to distributing more than 1500 grams of a meth mixture in Hamilton, Webster, and Humboldt counties, particularly in Eagle Grove and Webster City. Law enforcement raided Santillans home on November 9, 2017, and seized about one pound of meth, packaging materials, a digital scale, two loaded handguns, four rifles, a shotgun, and about $33,000 in cash. Santillan has been sentenced to 25 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release. This case was investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations, Wright County Sheriffs Office, Hamilton County Sheriffs Office, Webster County Sheriffs Office, and Humboldt County Sheriffs Office. MASON CITY, Iowa A beating that left the victims right eye swollen shut means four months in jail for a Mason City man. Justin James Zobel, 29, pleaded guilty Monday to assault causing bodily injury. Mason City police say Zobel repeatedly punched another male in the face on July 22. Hes been sentenced to 120 days in jail and must pay a $315 fine and restitution to the victim. Zobels trial was to begin Tuesday. ROCHESTER, Minn. A man accused of being a major drug dealer in the Rochester area is sentenced to 12 years in prison. Terrance David Burkhalter, 44 of Rochester, pleaded guilty to 1st degree sale of drugs and possession of a firearms after being convicted of a crime of violence. On Wednesday, a judge ordered him to spend 144 months behind bars, with credit for 161 days already served. Burkhalter was arrested on April 26 after police searched two homes in Rochester. Officers said they found 19.25 pounds of marijuana, over a pound of cocaine, more than 400 oxycodone pills, 10 grams of marijuana wax, nearly two ounces of heroin, a loaded handgun and cash. ROCHESTER, Minn.-November 6th is approaching fast, and two mayoral candidates want your vote. As current Rochester Mayor Ardell Brede is set to retire, the two candidates Kim Norton and Charlie OConnell faced off in a series of debates before the election. At this particular debate answered questions from area businesses. They answered a variety of questions from city owned broadband to following other cities in Minnesota who implemented a $15 minimum wage, which both candidates do not support. The two candidates often agreed on issues. One issue that was a talker was attracting and retaining business in Rochester. With the efficiencies of a city governmentso if the city is communicating well with businesses, theyre supporting the businesses, said OConnell. Norton argues that while there should be continue growth throughout Rochester. She said that we should look at other Metropolitian communities. Adding that businesses may move but it may not entirely be a bad thing. She gave an example of communities in Minneapolis. Theyve created pocket businesses throughout the community, said Norton. If you missed this debate the next mayoral debate is schedule for October 16th at the Rochester Public Library. By Marcelo Teixeira and Marta Nogueira SAO PAULO/RIO DE JANEIRO, Oct 2 (Reuters) - Brazilian prosecutors in Minas Gerais state said on Tuesday they reached a final compensation deal with mining companies Samarco, Vale and BHP Billiton regarding a 2015 dam burst, Brazil's largest ever environmental disaster. According to a statement from prosecutors released late on Tuesday, the deal allows for compensation payments to start to relatives of the 19 people killed in the disaster, as well as to people who lost their houses and other properties. No financial details of the deal were disclosed in the short statement on Tuesday, but the chief prosecutor in the city of Mariana will hold a press conference on Wednesday to discuss the agreement. Brazil's worst environmental catastrophe happened when a dam designed to hold back mine waste from the Samarco iron pellets operation in Mariana burst, leaving a trail of destruction for hundreds of kilometers in Minas Gerais and Espirito Santo states. Another deal had been reached by the mining companies and prosecutors in regions hit by the disaster away from Mariana, where victims found that offer insufficient. With this last settlement, companies might be able to prepare to resume operations in the region more than two years after the accident. Vale has said it expects the Samarco unit to resume operations in 2018 or early next year, but has pushed back forecasts several times. The mine still needs permits to reopen, and the lack of a clear timeline makes it harder for the controlling companies to renegotiate the debt Samarco will carry from the disaster. (Reporting by Marta Nogueira and Marcelo Teixeira Editing by Toni Reinhold and Richard Pullin) marcelo.teixeira.thomsonreuters.com@reuters.net Twitter: tx_marcelo)) Novagold Resources Inc. (NYSE American, TSX: NG) says it is in an excellent financial position to advance its Donlin gold project in Alaska, with $166 million in cash on hand. The company secured the major permits needed for the project in August. Novagold provided an update in a summary of developments for the third quarter, including the sale of its 50% interest in Galore Creek to Newmont Mining Corp. for up to $275 million. Novagold already received $100 million in July and is scheduled to receive an additional $75 million no later than July 27, 2021 and another $25 million by July 27, 2023. If Newmont proceeds with construction, Novagold would receive an additional $75 million, officials say. At the end of the third quarter, Novagold had a very healthy treasury of $166 million in cash and term deposits, says Gregory A. Lang, president and chief executive officer. With an additional $100 million we expect to receive from Newmont in the next five years, the company should not require any new funding before making a construction decision for Donlin Gold. By Allen Sykora of Kitco News; asykora@kitco.com Torex Reports Record Quarterly Output, Targets Upper End Of Guidance Torex Gold Resources Inc. (TSX: TXG) reports record production in the third quarter of 101,400 gold ounces, with revenue of $126.3 million, from its ELG Mine Complex in Mexico. The upper end of gold-production guidance is within reach and we all look forward to continuing the trend of accelerating performance, says Fred Stanford, president and chief executive officer. By Allen Sykora of Kitco News; asykora@kitco.com B2Gold Repays Convertible Notes, Continues With Debt Reduction B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO, NYSE AMERICAN: BTG, NSX: B2G) says it has repaid the $259 million of convertible senior subordinated notes that were issued in 2013 and matured on Oct. 1. With accrued interest, the total amounted to some $263 million, which B2Gold funded using existing cash on hand and a portion of its $500 million revolving credit facility, the company says. After repayment, the company had an outstanding balance of $400 million under the credit facility plus a remaining undrawn capacity of $100 million. B2Gold says the repayment is part of a strategy to fund construction of the Fekola Mine in Mali without using equity financing. Since commercial production at Fekola in late 2017, the company has been reducing its outstanding debt throughout the course of 2018, B2Gold says. The company says it began 2018 with outstanding debt of approximately $700 million and expects to reduce it to $500 million by year-end, and then scale it back further in 2019. * Tight supplies push aluminium prices higher* GRAPHIC-2018 asset returns: (Adds closing prices, CITI reiterates "buy" on aluminium) By Zandi Shabalala LONDON, Oct 3 (Reuters) - The price of aluminium jumped to its highest in more than three months on Wednesday after Norsk Hydro said it would halt output at its Alunorte alumina refinery, stoking concerns about shortages of the raw material. Three-month aluminium on the London Metal Exchange touched its highest since June 15 at $2,238 per tonne and ended 4.2 percent higher at $2,206 a tonne. The alumina market is in tight supply this year due to the outage at Norsk Hydro's plant in Brazil, U.S. sanctions on Russian producer Rusal and a strike at Alcoa's alumina refineries in Australia that was resolved last week. "The aluminium market was caught on the wrong foot given that we had the relaxation of the supply issues in Australia last week which kept prices under pressure," said Carsten Menke, analyst at Julius Baer, adding supply risk from Russia's Rusal had been priced out of the market. ALUMINIUM STOCKS: The market is concerned about aluminium stocks on the LME market, which at 979,800 tonnes have more than halved since January last year and are at their lowest since early 2008. ALUMINA: Unionised workers at aluminium producer Alcoa's Western Australian operations agreed on Friday to end a strike that lasted more than six weeks after securing better job security provisions in a new wage agreement. Norsk Hydro's Alunorte alumina refinery has been operating at half capacity since March due to an environmental dispute. Wednesday's announcement of production stoppage sent the company's shares down 11 percent. CITI: Researchers at Citi reiterated their "Buy" recommendation on aluminium as they remain confident that aluminium demand growth would outpace supply in China between 2018 and 2020. ANTI-POLLUTION: China said last week it would allow local authorities to adopt output curbs based on regional emission levels as part of its anti-pollution plan for winter. COPPER STOCKS: Total inventories of copper in LME warehouses fell to 194,175 tonnes, the lowest since December. DEFICIT: The copper market should see a deficit of 92,000 tonnes this year and a deficit of 65,000 tonnes in 2019, the International Copper Study Group said. Meanwhile, copper output from Africa's top producer, the Democratic Republic of Congo, is expected to rise 11.6 percent to 1.2 million tonnes by the end of 2018. PRICES: Copper ended 0.2 percent lower at $6,267 a tonne, zinc eased 0.6 percent to $2,650, after hitting its highest since July 9 on Tuesday at $2,728, lead was down 2 percent at $2,020, tin inched up 0.2 percent to $18,990, while nickel rose 2 percent to $12,770. <^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Top Base and Precious Metals Analysis - GFMS ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^> (Additional reporting by Manolo Serapio Jr.; Editing by Mark Potter and Kirsten Donovan) zandi.shabalala.thomsonreuters.com@reuters.net))LME price overview COMEX copper futures Base metals news All metals news All commodities news Metals diary Foreign exchange rates SPEED GUIDES )) Buenos Aires, Oct 3 (EFE).- Women 20, a coalition of women's organizations from G20 countries, presented here Wednesday to Argentine President Mauricio Macri a document with proposals to make employment, information technology and finance more inclusive for women. The report handed over to Macri at the Kirchner Cultural Center in Buenos Aires represents the fruit of a year's work by 146 delegates. The proposals will be considered by the heads of state and government at the Nov. 30-Dec. 1 G20 summit here. Starting from the premise that gender equality is key for sustainable and inclusive growth, the W20 urges "a faster implementation" of the commitment to reduce the gender wage gap by 25 percent over the next seven years. G20 members should develop and fund plans to narrow the wage gap and issue annual progress reports, the W20 says. Created in 2015 during Turkey's G20 presidency, the W20 draws on merges the knowledge and experience of female politicians, activists, professionals and business people. To expand and improve the participation of women in the labor force, the W20 suggests implementing paid parental leaves, reinforcing regulations to protect women from violence in the workplace and analyzing the future of employment from a gender perspective. The W20 meeting wraps up Wednesday after two days of public sessions with more than 1,000 participants. "There's still a lot to do, a long way to go for gender equality, but the good news is that we are working together, once and for all, and that there is no turning back," Macri told the gathering. From left are actor Kim Young-kwang, actresses Kim Hae-sook and Kim Hee-sun, cast for tvN's upcoming fantasy thriller "Room No.9" during a press event in Seoul, Tuesday. / Courtesy of CJ ENM By Park Jin-hai Kim Hee-sun, heroine of the 2017 mystery thriller "The Lady in Dignity," returns to the small screen this year in the fantasy thriller "Room No.9." In the 16-part weekend drama, the 41-year-old actress will take the role of the young and beautiful but manipulative lawyer Eulji Hae-yi, whose soul gets switched with death-row convict Jang Hwa-sa, played by veteran actress Kim Hae-sook, in room No.9, an inmate-lawyer meeting room. Although the soul-switching story is not very innovative in Korean dramas, tapped mostly in romantic comedies and depicted humorously, "Room No.9" uses it as a device to intensify the plot. "The switching souls story is not entirely new. But when it was used elsewhere, it often led to humor. In this drama, soul-changing will be used differently, driving the characters into a more dire situation," the television series' director Ji Young-soo said during a press conference at Amoris Hall in Seoul, Tuesday. Eulji, trapped in the convict's body, strives to prove who she is and escape from the cell, while Jang who was sentenced to death for a crime she didn't commit is freed in Eulji's body and tries to find the truth behind the big scheme that incriminated her 34 years ago. Kim Hee-sun challenges her first double role with this drama. "The story itself is compelling and I was deeply intrigued by the soul-changing scenario. So without any doubt or hesitation, I decided to take on this project," Kim said. "It is also my first time to play a lawyer. For me, this project is the biggest challenge of my entire acting career." Calling Kim Hae-sook's acting "monster-like," Hee-sun said that whenever she sees the 62-year-old veteran actress performing, it humbles her. "Hae-sook is a top-notch actress who any actors would want to work with. As her counterpart, I cannot help but feel some pressure to excel in my acting," she said. "When I see her acting and compare it with my acting, I feel like I still have a long way to go to become a great actress like Hae-sook." Hae-sook, who debuted in 1974, also says the dual role was a challenge to her. "It is my first dual role, too. It has been interesting but harder to do than what I initially thought it would be. Instead of forcing myself to create the difference between the two, I tried to have a different look and focused on my acting instead. While I was acting Jang the convict, I didn't wear any makeup," Hae-sook said. Kim Young-kwang, the rising star of the romantic comedy film "On Your Wedding Day," will play Eulji's love interest and the one who holds the key to solving the mystery in the fantasy thriller. tvN's new Saturday-Sunday drama series will premiere at 9 p.m. on Saturday. Woori Bank CEO Sohn Tae-seung Bank to seek acquisitions of brokerages, asset managers By Park Hyong-ki Woori Bank Group is on track and will be on schedule as planned to transform itself into a holding company that will give it more freedom to raise capital to finance acquisitions in the near future, according to the bank. Woori Bank is currently waiting for approval from the Financial Supervisory Service and the Financial Services Commission. Both regulators are expected to review the bank's application that includes its general business plan for Woori Bank CEO Sohn Tae-seung's envisioned holding company this month. Woori Bank said it may receive final approval early November at the latest given that government agencies have a National Assembly audit in October. The bank said it believes it will be able to incorporate as a holding company in January 2019 and re-list its local shares and American depositary receipt shares in the United States by February 2019. It has registered its possible trademarks that could be used for the holding company and subsidiaries, including the initials "WB" for Woori Bank, although it did not decide on a corporate identity yet. Also, Sohn has been meeting potential institutional investors in Europe, Hong Kong and Singapore, hoping to attract them to invest in the holding company when it relists in February 2019. "The bank seeks to attract long-term foreign institutional investors over retail investors as the former will be able to help boost its stock price," a Woori Bank spokesman said. Compared with other financial holding companies whose foreign ownerships account for 70 percent on average, foreign investors only hold 27 percent of Woori Bank shares, he noted. Currently, Woori is trading at around 17,000 won per share, above the 14,000 won at which the Korea Deposit Insurance Corp. (KDIC) said it can gain positive returns on its investment in the bank after stake sales. Attracting more foreign institutional funds would also enable to keep Woori holding shares "stable and stronger," making them less vulnerable to unexpected volatility. Also, the National Pension Service (NPS), which is limited to owning less than a 10 percent stake in any listed entities, holds a 9.3 percent stake in Woori Bank, while the state-run KDIC has an 18.43 percent stake. That is why Sohn has been promoting Woori to foreign institutional investors as a more financially fit and sound company with better earnings, the spokesman added. Woori Bank posted a consolidated net profit of 1.32 trillion won ($1.2 billion) in the first half of 2018, up from 1.1 trillion won a year ago, according to the company's semiannual financial report. It had a positive cash flow from operations, reaching 1.8 trillion won, up from 1.4 trillion won in the same period, and a negative cash flow from investment, which indicates it invested more than it hoarded money. But it reported a negative cash flow from financing as it increased its debt repayment on fixed-income securities. Hunting targets After the transformation into the holding company, Woori will pursue acquisitions of securities, real estate trust and asset management companies, but not insurance firms. "The IFRS 17 accounting standards will require insurers to increase their cash reserves. Woori does not want to take on that financial risk in the beginning stage of the holding company," the spokesman said. However, under the law for financial holding companies, it will be able to give Woori more leeway to raise capital for future acquisitions, he added. The current banking law will only allow it to raise or use up to 20 percent of its equity capital for investments in or acquisitions of shares of potential targets. Financial holding companies, however, can use up to 130 percent, through leverage. "Then, Woori will be able to go after large or mid-size securities companies that could merge with Woori Investment Bank in the future," the spokesman said. Analysts say Woori will be able to gain further competitiveness as it seeks acquisitions. "Woori would be able to see growth momentum after turning into a holding company with a capacity to pursue acquisitions," said Kim Sang-man, an analyst at Hana Financial Investment. U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo speaks during the United Nations Security Council meeting on the Korean Peninsula issue at the UN headquarters in New York, Sept. 27, 2018. Xinhua-Yonhap U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to North Korea next week to meet with its leader, Kim Jong-un, the State Department said Tuesday. Pompeo will visit Pyongyang Sunday as the U.S. pushes to dismantle the regime's nuclear weapons program and set up a second summit between President Donald Trump and Kim. At their first summit in Singapore in June, Kim agreed to work toward "complete" denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula in exchange for security guarantees from the U.S. Negotiations between the two sides have since stalled as the U.S. demands concrete steps toward denuclearization and the North insists on first declaring an end to the 1950-53 Korean War. The three-year conflict ended with an armistice, not a peace treaty, leaving the sides technically at war. Pompeo will be making his fourth trip to Pyongyang after an earlier visit in August was called off by Trump over what he called a lack of progress in denuclearization. "These conversations are going in the right direction and we feel confident enough to hop on a plane to head there and continue the conversations," department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told a regular news briefing. "Our policy has not changed. Things stand firmly in place, such as the sanctions ... remain in place." Pompeo met with his North Korean counterpart, Ri Yong-ho, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York last week. The State Department announced afterward that the secretary had accepted Kim's invitation to visit Pyongyang. Days later, in an address to the U.N. General Assembly, Ri slammed the U.S. for continuing to pressure the regime with sanctions and declared there was "no way" the North would give up its nuclear program before seeing trust-building steps from the U.S. In this photo released by the US Government on April 26, 2018, North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un (R) shakes hands with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Pyongyang over the 2018 Easter weekend. AFP-Yonhap Decison comes after Moscow's protest By Yi Whan-woo South Korea released a Russian-flagged ship, Tuesday, after detaining it in Busan on suspicion of violating the U.N. Security Council (USNC) sanctions on North Korea, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Wednesday. Citing Busan port authorities, the ministry said the Sevastopol, a cargo ship operated by Russia-based Gudzon Shipping, was cleared of allegations that it was involved in illegal trading with North Korea and therefore was free to leave. The ship and its 14 crew members had been seized on Sept. 28. "Whether the ship violated UNSC sanctions was not found when our side searched and inspected it. And we lifted deferral of the ship's departure as of Oct. 2," a foreign ministry official said on condition of anonymity. On Aug. 21, the U.S. Department of Treasury blacklisted Gudzon, as well as Russian shipping company Primorye Maritime Logistics and six Russian vessels including the Sevastopol for allegedly breaching UNSC sanctions and being involved in ship-to-ship crude oil trade with North Korea. The ministry official said South Korea "worked closely" with the U.S. and Russia over the Sevastopol case. "The ship is targeted by the U.S. and we want to ensure it does not violate the relevant sanctions," the official said. He stressed the Sevastopol and its crew were never arrested, seized or detained but were prevented from leaving. "We deferred the Sevastopol's departure in accordance with our routine inspection related to the international sanctions on Pyongyang. This is different from the measures taken against the ships that are found in breach of such sanctions," he said. However, speculation remains whether South Korea yielded to Russia after the latter lodged a strong protest. The ship was initially scheduled to leave South Korea on Sept. 27 after docking at the port of Busan on Aug. 14 for maintenance. The Russian foreign ministry summoned South Korean Ambassador to Russia Woo Yoon-keun, Oct. 1, in protest of the ship's "illegal seizure," demanding Seoul "immediately" allow the ship to leave. The Russian ministry also canceled its plans to send Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov to a reception hosted by Woo in Moscow, Oct. 1, to mark National Foundation Day. It instead sent a lower-level official. "Sending a lower-level official should be seen as sign of protest for detaining the Sevastopol," a diplomatic source said. The UNSC sanctions adopted in September 2017 ban ship-to-ship trade with North Korea at sea. The UNSC allows member states to seize, inspect and freeze vessels suspected of transferring coal or banned goods to or from Kim Jong-un's regime. Pyongyang will not stick to declaration of end to war By Lee Min-hyung Washington and Pyongyang will soon begin working-level talks in Vienna to possibly seek a "big deal" on denuclearization. Steve Biegun, the U.S. special representative for North Korea, is expected to lead the delegation from Washington for talks with a North Korean delegation possibly headed by Vice Foreign Minister Choi Sun-hee. They are likely to seek to narrow their differences over the dialogue agenda for U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's upcoming Pyongyang visit. In a meeting with North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho last week, Pompeo agreed to make his fourth visit to the regime sometime in the near future to discuss the timeline for the North's denuclearization. Both sides have yet to confirm when the U.S. official will visit Pyongyang. Expectations are Pompeo will go all-out to generate tangible outcomes on his upcoming trip, as he failed to make any outstanding denuclearization deal with the North during his previous three visits to Pyongyang this year. The North claimed the months-long deadlock in dialogue is largely due to a lack of mutual trust. Pyongyang has demanded Washington take appropriate trust-enhancing countermeasures in exchange for the regime's steps for denuclearization. The U.S., however, has not faltered in its stance on sanctions, while urging the North to provide a detailed timeline for its denuclearization. By Kim Hyun-bin Fears of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) outbreak has resurfaced for the first time in three years after a 61-year-old man contracted the virus during a business trip to Kuwait earlier this month. The man came into contact with over 400 people including those on the plane, and had close contact with 21 of them _ flight attendants, passengers in the seats around him, immigration officials and medical staff. They are being monitored and have to report to the quarantine authorities about their everyday condition, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). Unlike the first outbreak in 2015, which resulted in 38 deaths and infections of 186 people, the second outbreak has been well contained so far, with most of those coming into close contact testing negative for the disease. The first outbreak had a far worse outcome as the government lacked knowledge about the disease and consequently the knowhow on suitable quarantine measures. Since then, measures have been enhanced to help prevention of any future outbreaks of the virus. To better inform the public, the Korean Society of Infectious Diseases (KSID) published a MERS white paper in 2015, which listed the rumors and facts of MERS after the first outbreak. Is MERS an airborne virus? No. MERS is not virally contagious. It is mostly spread through contact with an infected person's bodily fluids such as nasal discharges and coughs. "If MERS was airborne, most of a patient's family members would also be diagnosed with the disease, but only 5 to 10 percent were infected _ an unrealistic figure if the virus could be transmitted through air. It would have infected their local community and spread rapidly through subways and buses," said Kim Tae-hyung, a professor of the Division of Infection Diseases at the Soon Chun Hyang University Hospital. However, in May 2015, the first rumors of MERS being airborne arose after a patient tested positive for MERS without any known close contact with the first patient. The problem was the government's definition of "close contact" was poorly defined. In 2014, the government defined close contact as "people within a two-meter radius of a MERS patient for over an hour without any safety gear including masks, gloves and eye protection." The rule was made after reviewing the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for SARS and H1N1 swine flu. However, unlike the CDC and the WHO, the Korean government lacked information and data on preventing MERS and the government set the critical contact area as too small which led to infections outside their surveillance range. After dealing with the first outbreak, the government erased the one-hour contact and replaced it with "anyone who has a fever over 37.5 degrees Celsius after encountering a MERS patient within a two-meter radius." "The CDC included other preventive options to halt the spread of the virus but the KCDC guidelines mainly focused on the one-hour contact within a two-meter radius without other detailed preventive options, which was a disastrous mistake," according to the KSID. How to prevent infection Symptoms of MERS are fever, coughing, and respiratory difficulties. Patients may also suffer from an upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea. After conducting a survey on 46 MERS patients who were allowed to select multiple criteria, 41 had fever, 16 constantly coughed, 11 had respiratory difficulties, followed by muscle pain and diarrhea. The symptoms were noticeable between two to 14 days after infection. Before apparent symptoms, experts say the virus is not contagious. The median incubation period for MERS with limited human-to-human transmission is approximately five days. However, the longest incubation period recorded by the KCDC was 14 days. To prevent infection, health officials recommend washing hands routinely and not touching the eyes, nose, and mouth when hands are not sanitized. In addition, people are advised to make sure to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing and avoiding people with fever. MERS is a coronavirus respiratory disease with a fatality rate of 20 percent to 46 percent, contracted through contact with infected camels and spread through close contact with a MERS-infected person. The first MERS case was in Saudi Arabia, and spread to other countries. As of June, the WHO has reported 2,229 confirmed cases worldwide. By Lee Min-young Prosecutors Wednesday sought a 12-year prison term and a fine of 7.3 billion won for Booyoung Group chairman Lee Joong-keun on charges of embezzlement and tax evasion, among other crimes. Lee was arrested in February and charged with embezzling 430 billion won from the medium-sized building conglomerate and pocketing 1 trillion won of illicit gains by bloating construction costs to inflate rental apartment prices. Lee was released on bail for health reasons in July. He came to court in a suit carrying a cane. "He inflicted a great deal of damage to ordinary people," the prosecutor said during a hearing at the Seoul Central District Court. Booyoung, its business portfolios focusing on building and leasing apartments, has been embroiled in an alleged corruption scandal since tax authorities started to zero in on it. Meanwhile, prosecutors rejected an arrest warrant request sought by police Tuesday for Lee Hwa-kyung, the vice chairwoman of the nation's largest confectionery maker Orion Group, on charges of embezzlement. According to legal sources, prosecutors turned down the warrant request citing a lack of explanation to substantiate her charges. Lee is suspected of siphoning off some 20 billion won of company funds from 2008 to 2014 to build a mansion in Yangpyeong, Gyeonggi Province. Young tenants pose for a photo at Sinheung Market in Haebangchon, central Seoul, Monday. From left are leather craftsman Park Ki-dong, jewelry designer Kim Sae-rom and cafe owner Jang Kyung-Hoon. / Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk But worries of gentrification surface By Lee Suh-yoon Sinheung Market, a small U-shaped alley at the top of the hill in Haebangchon, central Seoul, strikes an uncanny balance between old and new. Workshops selling artisanal goods line the ground floors of half-a-century-old brick buildings. The butcher's shop sits right next to a glass-walled Thai restaurant cloaked in white linen curtains. N Seoul Tower looms above the unfinished roof frames covering the street. Burrowed into a wall left of the entrance, a small room churns out bags of sweaters. In the 1970s, the area was full of family-run businesses that supplied knitwear to the Namdaemun clothing market at the northern foot of Mount Nam. In those days, Sinheung Market was packed with people. Women who worked in these small factories bought their groceries here before returning home. A street view of Sinheung Market on Monday afternoon. / Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk But as the knitwear business trickled to a stop in the 1980s mostly due to competition from China the market died with it. In November 2016, Sinheung Market's landlords and the Seoul Metropolitan Government struck a deal to salvage the dying market: The city would use taxpayer money to renovate buildings and roads. In return, all 44 landowners agreed not to raise rent prices for at least six years to protect tenants from the subsequent rise in property prices. "The collective agreement on the rent cap was possible because all the landlords here know each other. They persuaded each other to take the opportunity to save the market," said Lee, a city official at Haebangchon Urban Regeneration Center who asked to be identified only by his surname. "They also understand the financial difficulties of running a business as they themselves were shopkeepers on these streets once." Young people walk in Sinheung Market, Monday. / Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk The city's plan is to attract young craftsmen and create an art market. Kim Sae-rom, a jewelry designer who opened her workshop in 2016, pays 400,000 won ($360) a month for a 30-square-meter space there. "I was able to renew my contract with the building owner for the same rent in March with no trouble," Kim said in an interview at her shop. "The low rent helps me focus on honing my craft rather than trying to sell as many goods as possible." A view of a cafe window at Sinheung Market / Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk Park Il-song, head of the local merchants association, played a central role in getting the local landlords to sign on to the rent cap. "The moment the tenants find the rent too burdensome, it's over the market will die," Park said. Social experiments like these are not uncommon in Haebangchon, sometimes referred to as "a neighborhood built by outsiders." The area was first populated by Korean War refugees from the North, later joined by farmers displaced during the nation's industrialization and more recently, young workers, artists and foreigners seeking affordable living spaces. Park Il-song, 77, stands in front of his grocery store selling dried noodles, Monday. The store was set up by Park's relative in the early 1950s, during the formative stages of Sinheung Market . / Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk The concerns about gentrification is not unwarranted, as the case of Gyeongnidan-gil, west of Haebangchon, proves. But changes and some displacement have been inevitable after the urban regeneration project started, Park says. "In the last two years, the flour mills, oil-pressers and side dish shops all closed because the shopkeepers are too old to continue and they can rent the space to younger people," Park said. "The rent did rise a little, and migrant laborers who used to rent out small rooms for 100,000 won a month left after the renovations pushed up their rent to around 200,000 won." The collective resolve on the rent cap has been challenged in recent months as the neighborhood attracted more visitors following media coverage of its "hip" new shops and restaurants. By Lee Min-hyung An Army major general was sacked Tuesday for alleged sexual harassment, a day after he improperly touched the hands of a female company-grade officer during a dinner, according to the Ministry of National Defense. He is suspected of forcing her to sit next to him and holding her hands at a restaurant in Gyeonggi Province. She reported the case to her unit's legal team Tuesday morning. The Army then launched an investigation into the general and booked him on a charge of sexual abuse. He was relieved of duty immediately, it said. "To protect the victim, we are offering counseling and legal services," an official said. "A legal team from Army headquarters will check the facts of the incident and question him." The Army will impose stern punishment on the suspect if he is found guilty, he added. This is the third time that a ranking Army officer has been involved in sexually harassing a female officer. In July, two Army generals were relieved of their duties over sex crimes. Also, a Navy rear admiral was detained in the same month for allegedly attempting to rape a female sailor. Despite the ministry's pledge to eradicate sex crimes, the number committed by ranking military officials has been rising every year. The number of reported sex crimes in the military jumped to 68 from 32 in 2013, according to statistics from the defense ministry. But the actual number is expected to be much higher than those reported, as sex crimes are mostly committed in hidden places. This has created a social atmosphere that calls for the military to set up an environment where male and female soldiers can be treated equally. Former Defense Minister Song Young-moo also expressed anger over the continuous sex crimes in the military, and pledged to sternly deal with any officers involved in any sex-related scandals. Earlier last month, the defense ministry also established what it calls "Gender Equality Committee" to raise the awareness of the gender equality and introduce measures to stop possible sexual crimes in the military. The 15-member committee, consisting of officials from the military and civilian sectors, is aimed at rooting out any possible discrimination against women in the military, according to the ministry. U.S. secretary of state to meet Kim, Moon, China, Japan officials By Yi Whan-woo U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to North Korea, Sunday, fueling optimism for progress in the stalled nuclear talks between the two countries. The U.S. Department of State announced Tuesday that on his fourth visit to Pyongyang, Pompeo will meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. He is expected to discuss a planned second summit between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump following the previous one in Singapore, June 12. The department said Pompeo, after wrapping up his North Korea visit, will come to Seoul, also on Sunday, and brief President Moon Jae-in and Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha about his talks in Pyongyang. He is also scheduled to visit Japan (Saturday) and China (Monday) and meet his counterparts there. Pompeo's return to Pyongyang comes in line with his meeting with North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly last week. Washington and Pyongyang have made little progress in their nuclear talks since the first Trump-Kim summit, which drew a backlash for being short on specifics, especially on steps toward denuclearization. On Pompeo's third visit in July, Kim stood him up and his regime issued a sharply critical statement. Trump then called off Pompeo's plan to travel to Pyongyang in August. "It shows forward progress and momentum that the secretary is making his fourth trip back in less than a year," a State Department spokeswoman said. "Of course, we have quite a ways to go but we look forward to the next steps in this conversation." Cheong Wa Dae was optimistic about the visit amid speculation that a declaration to end the 1950-53 Korean War and other corresponding measures for denuclearization can be discussed. President Moon Jae-in is committed to declaring an end to the war by December and the U.S.-North Korea consensus on denuclearization is critical in meeting this commitment. "It will be the U.S. and North Korea who will deal with denuclearization firsthand. And we'll keep track of Pompeo's dialogue with the North," a Cheong Wa Dae official said. Analysts speculated the U.S. and North Korea may already have reached a consensus to some extent over denuclearization methods and a declaration ending the war. "I don't think Pompeo's trip, Saturday, would have been possible unless the two countries had a coordinated agenda regarding denuclearization," said Cho Sung-ryul, a senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Strategy. Cho said North Korea may have accepted the U.S. proposal to shut down a nuclear weapons plant in addition to the Yongbyon complex that Kim promised to close during his third summit with Moon from Sept. 18 to 20. "In return, the U.S. may ease economic sanctions on North Korea. These are possible agreements that I think were made between the two countries prior to Pompeo's visit," he said. Some analysts remained cautious over progress in the nuclear talks, pointing out that Pompeo's third visit only resulted in Washington and Pyongyang accusing each other of dragging their feet on denuclearization. By Park Yoon-bae President Moon Jae-in's third summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un last month has raised hopes for a breakthrough in the stalled denuclearization talks, as well as closer ties between the two Koreas. There is no doubt Moon has managed to live up to U.S. President Donald Trump's call to serve as "chief negotiator" between the two archrivals who fought each other in the 1950-53 Korean War. Furthermore, Moon has come to develop a friendship with Kim, visiting Mount Paektu together. Their bromance culminated when they raised their joined hands atop the highest peak of the sacred mountain, a day after they held a meeting in Pyongyang. Then Moon flew to New York to meet with President Trump on the sidelines of the annual United Nations General Assembly last week. He assured Trump about Kim's renewed commitment to denuclearization. This made Trump eager for a second summit with Kim. It is also true Moon went so far as to pitch what Kim wants the U.S. to do "corresponding measures" in response to the North's move toward denuclearization. Moon called on the U.S. to formally declare an end to the Korean War, which came to a halt with an armistice rather than a peace treaty. This invited criticism, though not serious, for Moon acting as a "spokesman" for Kim. The Trump administration is reluctant to accommodate the North's demands for taking corresponding steps such as the end-of-war declaration and sanctions relief. Trump expressed his willingness to meet Kim again, but reaffirmed international sanctions stay in place until the North denuclearizes. Apparently disappointed with U.S. refusal to take simultaneous and reciprocal steps, North Korea's Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho told the U.N. General Assembly on Saturday that his country would not denuclearize unilaterally. Ri appeared to put the cart before the horse because he set the end-of-war declaration and easing of sanctions as a precondition for scrapping the nuclear program. If the North sticks to this precondition, it would presage a tug of war with the U.S. down the road. This also could make it difficult, if not impossible, to narrow their differences over the timetable and methods of denuclearization. Of course, no one can categorically rule out the possibility of a trade-off between the two foes. Yet the U.S. has so far made it clear it will not offer the North security guarantees or other rewards until the latter makes tangible progress in dismantling its nukes. Washington is asking Pyongyang to disclose a list of its nuclear weapons first. But the Kim regime is refusing to comply with the request. Rather it prefers to dismantle nuclear weapons and facilities on its own without international inspection and verification. During his latest meeting with Moon, Kim agreed to shut down the Tongchang-ri missile engine testing facility and missile launch pads with the participation of experts from related countries. He also promised to take additional steps, such as the permanent shutdown of its Yongbyon nuclear facilities, if the U.S. takes corresponding measures. However, Kim's agreement and promise fall short of allowing international experts, probably from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) or the U.S., to inspect and verify the North's nuclear weapons stockpile, fissile material and nuclear facilities. Taken overall, it is still doubtful the North is ready to take sincere and credible steps toward what the U.S. seeks a final, fully verified denuclearization (FFVD). Kim kicked off a charm and peace offensive by taking advantage of the PyeongChang Winter Olympics in February. This offensive was a far cry from missile and nuclear tests that drew a "fire and fury" reaction from Trump who called Kim "Little Rocket Man on a suicide mission." Kim's sudden change, however, opened the way for the April 27 Panmunjeom summit with Moon and the June 12 Singapore summit with Trump. But the problem is Kim made too vague a commitment to the "complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula." And he has done little to make good on his promise, putting his real intentions into question. Despite the growing mood for detente and rapidly changing geopolitical developments on the peninsula, the North has yet to define denuclearization. South Korea, the U.S. and other concerned parties have no idea what Kim is really up to. In this situation, it is somewhat absurd to see Trump saying Saturday that he and Kim fell in love. Certainly, he may have just wanted to boast of his bromance with the North Korean leader at a campaign rally. Or he might try to engage in a lovefest with Kim in a bid to get out of domestic political trouble ahead of the November midterm elections. But the two leaders would probably end up as strange bedfellows if Kim is unfaithful in fulfilling his promise although Moon is confident Kim has no reason to cheat on Trump. And who knows whether the three run the risk of getting stuck in a love triangle? Park Yoon-bae (byb@koreatimes.co.kr) is the chief editorial writer of The Korea Times. By Robert Skidelsky LONDON Bad economics breeds bad politics. The global financial crisis, and the botched recovery thereafter, put wind in the sails of political extremism. Between 2007 and 2016, support for extremist parties in Europe doubled. France's National Rally (formerly the National Front), Germany's Alternative fur Deutschland (AfD), Italy's League party, the Freedom Party of Austria (FPO), and the Sweden Democrats have all made electoral gains in the past two years. And I haven't even mentioned Donald Trump or Brexit. To be sure, this explosion of political extremism cannot be explained by economic distress alone. But the correlation between bad economic events and bad politics is too striking to be ignored. By bad politics, I mean the xenophobic nationalism and suppression of domestic civil liberties seen in countries with populist governments. By good politics, I mean the internationalism, freedom of expression, and accountable governance that prevailed during the postwar era of prosperity. Let's call them illiberal and liberal democracy for short. By bad economics, I mean allowing financial markets to dictate what happens to the real economy. Good economics, by contrast, recognizes a government's duty to protect its constituents against distress, insecurity, and calamity. It is very hard for liberals to accept that bad politics can produce good economics, and that good politics can produce bad economics. And yet Hungary offers a clear example of the former. Under Prime Minister Viktor Orban, the country has become increasingly authoritarian. But the government's economic program, "Orbanomics," has a sound Keynesian footing. By the same token, good politics can certainly coexist with bad economics: Former British Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne's austerity policies condemned the United Kingdom to years of stagnation. Between nationalists and liberals, it is easier for the former to pursue policies of social protection. Historically, that of course includes the Nazis, who were National Socialists, and Mussolini, who began his political life as a socialist activist. Liberals, meanwhile, advocate the free movement of goods, people, and information, whereas a nationalist politics seeks to restrict all three. True, far-left parties have also made advances since the post-crisis slump. But history suggests that nationalists have the most to gain from episodes of political and social breakdown. It is easy to see why. Classical socialism is the progeny of liberal internationalism, which is to say that it is a globalizing creed; in principle, it knows no national frontiers. Yet in the face of large-scale economic crack-ups, internationalism becomes precisely the point at issue. Untethered as it is from national politics, it is accountable to no one. So, when the international system collapses, nationalists can present themselves as the only alternative. Owing to this dynamic, the left has few good options. It can no more tap into popular hostility against immigrants and refugees than the liberal center can. On the other hand, if the left tries to play up the benefits of immigration, it might drive more people into the arms of anti-immigrant parties. There could be no objection to economic liberalism if unimpeded markets fulfilled their promise of satisfying individual preferences through the operation of Adam Smith's "invisible hand." The problem, as Joseph Schumpeter understood, is that even if markets often do "work" the way they are supposed to, they are also highly disruptive and prone to periodic breakdowns. Moreover, while the technological innovations that markets promote bring real benefits in the long run, they tend to leave much economic and social wreckage in their wake. And besides, market choices are not people's sole concern. A life entirely dictated by markets would be bereft of meaning. Some commentators today think that we are witnessing the second coming of fascism. I myself would not venture such a prediction. The so-called Great Recession was not nearly as bad as the Great Depression of the 1930s, and it did not follow a devastating war. What I will say is that bad economics makes it more likely that bad politics will move from the fringes into the mainstream, as German National Socialism did between 1928 and 1930. Whether the bad parties make it to power and how they wield that power depends on many factors. The degree of economic distress certainly matters. But so does the legitimacy and adaptability of the established political system, the scope of welfare provision, electoral politics and political leadership, and the international context. The rapid rise of extremism today should serve as a wake-up call. We must uncouple the good politics of liberalism from the bad economics of neoliberalism that produced the disaster of 2008. That means reinstating the kind of economics that prevailed from the 1940s to the 1970s, until it was swept away by President Ronald Reagan in the United States and Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in the U.K. Friedrich Hayek was wrong to argue that Keynesian social democracy is a slippery slope to serfdom. On the contrary, it is the necessary antidote. A good economics in our own era would do three things: It would take precautions against 2008-level collapses; it would muster a robust counter-cyclical response to any collapse that does happen; and it would heed popular demands for economic fairness. Likewise, preserving today's good politics also requires that we give urgent attention to four topics: the political and social limits of globalization; the financialization of the real economy; the role of fiscal and monetary policy; and the delinking of rewards from work in an era of accelerating automation. Proponents of liberalism and those to their left neglect these issues at their peril. Robert Skidelsky, a member of the British House of Lords, is professor emeritus of political economy at Warwick University. Copyright belongs to Project Syndicate ( ). Moon should listen carefully to voices of opposition President Moo Jae-in appointed Rep. Yoo Eun-hae of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea as education and deputy prime minister Monday. The appointment disregarded the strong objections from the opposition parties to Yoo during the confirmation hearing. Even if the President is authorized to appoint ministers without the approval of the National Assembly, his unilateral decision raised a question on whether the process to examine the qualifications of minister nominees at the Assembly is necessary. Moon has been stressing the need for smooth communication and cooperation with the opposition. But in fact, he has often turned a deaf ear to their voices. The appointment of Yoo is a typical example of him reneging on his campaign promise to achieve "cooperative politics." In order to justify his unilateral move, Moon let his spokesman read a statement saying, "It is hard to see the objections of the opposition parties as representing the general public's opinion." He should understand that the appointment of Yoo is a blatant disdain for parliamentary democracy. Lawmakers of the opposition parties have strongly protested Yoo's nomination, citing a lack of experience in the education field and her ideological bias toward the left. She has also been slammed for alleged ethical lapses, including the false registration of her daughter's home address to get her admitted to a better school. Furthermore, her appointment also raises a question: How long will Yoo, a two-term lawmaker, serve as education minister? There is a high possibility of the legislator quitting her new job to seek re-election in the polls slated for April 2020. If they ministers want to run in the general election, they should tender their resignation at least 90 days before polling day. If so, she will serve as the top education policymaker for only one year and three months at the most. It is doubtful that she can carry out her job properly in such a short period. Education is an important field in any society as it decisively affects the future of a country. Taking into consideration its influence on the next generations, trial and error cannot be tolerated. Education policies should be promoted on a stable basis from a long-term perspective. Despite the controversy over her qualification, she was named to take charge of education affairs and also oversee social affairs at related ministries as deputy prime minister. Now, she must dispel the people's worries about her and build public confidence by showing her capability, as praised by the President. Yoo also needs to consider declaring that she will not run in the next election in order to devote herself to her new education portfolio, if she really wants to carry out her duty faithfully. ST Unitas Vice President Cho Se-won / Courtesy of ST Unitas By Park Jae-hyuk ST Unitas will grow into a global player, providing its state-of-the-art online education programs for tens of millions of students across the globe, according to company Vice President Cho Se-won. In a recent interview with The Korea Times, the 38-year-old said the Princeton Review will play a crucial role in its globalization, stressing ST Unitas will make the best use of the massive big data that the American company has accumulated for years. In early 2017, ST Unitas acquired the Review to capitalize on its reputation for global expansion. Cho directs the American education service firm's online business at the Korean private learning institute operator's local office in the United States. "The global market for education of applicants for American universities still depends highly on offline lectures, so our top priority is to attract the applicants to our online education platform," Cho said. "We will combine our technology with offline education content that the Review has offered in 20 countries. Starting from Korea, we will begin offering our new service in the U.S. and Asian countries." According to the vice president, the Review's recent briefing session for Korean students considering studying abroad attracted over 270 applicants, although it could offer 150 seats to attendees. In Korea, most briefing sessions for students preparing to study abroad have been attended by less than 60. The Review's real time online lectures delivered here in July and August collectively recorded 1,700 views as well. Based on such huge popularity in Korea, ST Unitas plans to open the education service firm's website in India and Middle Eastern countries by the end of 2018. The size of the global market for education of students preparing for tests to enter U.S. colleges is estimated at 4 trillion won ($3.5 billion). The market size is expected to grow rapidly, as an increasing number of Indian students have been eager to study in the U.S., following Google and Microsoft's appointments of CEOs from that country. "The Review has already offered its offline lectures in several Asian countries for students who want to study abroad. After opening a website in each country, we will come up with differentiated online education service to help millions of test-takers of SAT and ACT exams get the scores they want in a short time," Cho said. He added demand for online education is also growing in the U.S., as studying methods in Asian countries have been popular with white American students. ST Unitas has therefore been trying to take the lead in the U.S. online education market. The company seeks to introduce its artificial intelligence-based education service named Stella to the U.S. Cho said Stella has been learning the Review's big data related to SAT exams through deep and machine learning methods. Park Myung-soon, fourth from left, senior vice president of SK Telecom's AI Business Division, poses with Park Jae-youn, fourth from right, president of Paradise Hotel Busan after signing a MOU at the hotel, Tuesday. / Courtesy of SK Telecom SK Telecom to launch AI hotel with Hotel Paradise Hotel Busan By Baek Byung-yeul Telecom firms here have been expanding their business portfolios into the business-to-business (B2B) segment using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. SK Telecom announced Wednesday it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Paradise Hotel Busan on Oct. 2 to provide its AI voice recognition service to the hotel in the southern port city. Under the MOU, SK Telecom will install its NUGU Candle, a LED lighting device embedded with the firm's AI platform NUGU, in about 100 rooms of the hotel within this year. With the device, guests will be able to receive information about hotel facilities and tourism attractions near the hotel. The country's top telecom company had installed its AI platform in every room of the Vista Walkerhill Hotel in eastern Seoul. As a trial, the hotel installed the AI voice-recognition service in its 44 rooms in August and expanded the service to all 250 rooms last month. Park Myung-soon, senior vice president of SK Telecom's AI Business Division, said the agreement would enable the company to provide more customer-friendly AI services. This is the company's business strategy to take a leadership role in the Fourth Industry Revolution. With the AI platform, SK Telecom has been able to mine big data so that the firm can provide its customers with more tailored services that meet their different needs. Before SK Telecom, KT already launched Korea's first AI hotel in Seoul. In July, the country's second largest mobile carrier, injected its voice-recognition AI platform Giga Genie at the Novotel Ambassador Hotel and Residence in central Seoul. With the AI assistant, guests are allowed to control lighting, temperature and music as well as receive information about the facilities in the hotel, all through voice commands. KT is expanding its B2B AI platform business. The firm signed a business agreement with Yanolja, an accommodation app operator to connect its AI platform with the operator's room management system. LG Uplus extended its reach into bakery franchises as the country's third largest mobile carrier has deployed robots to bakeries. The telecom firm signed a memorandum of understanding with a local bakery franchiser Paris Croissant on Sept. 11 to provide LG Electronics' CLOi robots equipped with the Clova voice-recognition AI platform developed by Naver at seven franchised stores of the bakery. At the stores equipped with the robots, customers can receive recommendations of bread and cake products. The robot also offers simple games and quizzes so that parents can shop at the bakery while their children play with the robot. LG Uplus has expanded its AI technology into the healthcare sector. Since April, the company has provided AI speakers and internet of things (IoT) devices to patients' rooms in VHS Medical Center in Seoul. The patients who are uncomfortable in even performing simple activities can easily control the devices simply through voice commands. Hyundai Motor presents its N high-performance cars during the press day of the 2018 Paris Motor Show, Tuesday (local time). / Courtesy of Hyundai Motor By Nam Hyun-woo PARIS _ Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors will likely see their combined European sales surpass 1 million cars this year, a feat that may come 41 years after the two companies' entrance to the region. The two brands said they will further increase their presence in the European market by focusing on the three segments of high-performance, eco-friendly and SUV. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, Hyundai Motor sold 378,834 vehicles in Europe from January to August this year, up 9.8 percent from a year earlier. With Kia Motors adding 336,216 cars during the same period, up 5.9 percent from a year earlier, the two Hyundai Motor Group brands sold 715,050 vehicles in the region, up 8 percent year-on-year. Given the pace of the sales, a Hyundai Motor official said it is "quite conceivable that the two companies' 2018 sales will top the 1 million mark." Should the feat be accomplished, Europe will become the third region for the two brands to sell more than 1 million cars in a year, following the U.S. and China. Hyundai Motor took its first steps in Europe by exporting 300 Pony cars to Greece in 1977. It was followed by Kia Motors and Hyundai Motor each setting up European bodies in 1995 and 2000. Since then, the two brands have shown stable growth in the region. In 2008, they retailed 508,574 vehicles in Europe and the number nearly doubled to 995,383 last year. During that period, their sales kept growing except for 2013 when the number dropped by 1.4 percent from 2012. Along with the growth, the two companies' European market share grew to 6.4 percent as of August this year, from 3.4 percent in 2008. They attributed the expansion to Hyundai's small and mid-size hatchback lineup of "i" series _ the i10, the i20 and the i30 _ and Kia's localized models of the ix20, the Ceed and the Venga. The i series led Hyundai's 2017 sales, selling 275,918 units to account for 52.3 percent of the total Hyundai sales in Europe. Hyundai Motor showcases the Nexo fuel-cell electric vehicle during the press day of the 2018 Paris Motor Show, Tuesday (local time). / Courtesy of Hyundai Motor Despite the growth, the outlook is not as rosy as it used to be, as more competitors eye the European market while demand seems to be stagnant. The brands said they will focus on the three segments of high-performance, eco-friendly and SUV to weather through the growing competition from rivals. For the high-performance segment, Hyundai said it will promote sales of the i30 N, as well as expanding the N lineup. At the 2018 Paris Motor Show, Hyundai unveiled the i30 Fastback N as the third model having the N brand, as well as introducing a number of variations to the i30 N. The i30 N's sales are hitting their stride in Europe, reaching 2,957 in the first half of this year. The number has already surpassed this year's sales goal of 2,800. "Hyundai Motor's solid performance at major motorsport events this year is affecting the sales of the N lineup, helping the company's bid to change its reputation from "a cost-efficient brand" to "an advanced technology brand," a Hyundai Motor official said. For the eco-friendly segment, Hyundai and Kia plan to expand their lineup of battery cars, retailing the Kona Electric, the Niro EV and the Nexo fuel-cell EV. "Along with the move, Hyundai and Kia will tune up their SUV lineups in the European market, to meet the growing demands for SUVs in the region," the official said. Shinsegae Department Store's main branch in downtown Seoul / Korea Times file By Park Jae-hyuk Shinsegae has been criticized for using the controversial term "black consumer" in an official press release issued Tuesday afternoon. The term, which was coined in Korea to refer to customers making unreasonable complaints to business owners, has been regarded as offensive to consumers with dark skin. However, the conglomerate was indiscreet in its use of language, despite its plan to enter the U.S. market. The press release starts with a sentence that reads, "Shinsegae Department Store will hang a declaration toward customers to protect staff from black consumers." It also reads that the retail giant will revise its manual to specify ways to cope with "black consumers." The measures came after a female customer's assault on salesclerks in July at Shinsegae Department Store's Jukjeon branch in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province. The customer cursed the salesclerks and threw cosmetics products at them, while complaining of allergies to cosmetics she bought from the store. Shinsegae called rude shoppers like her "black consumers." Foreigners, however, pointed out that the derogatory term does not convey that meaning. "In the U.S., of course, black means African-American, and black consumer would simply denote an African-American consumer," an American living in New York said. "Probably the most common phrase here would be customer from hell." Although Japan also has its own terms referring to such consumers, they are not as controversial as Korea's. They use the terms "claimer" and "monster claimer." A growing number of experts advise Korean companies to stop using the term "black consumer." "The term black consumer may be derived from blacklisted consumers," said Kim Kyung-ja, a professor of the Department of Consumer and Housing at Catholic University. "Korea is the only country calling vicious consumers black consumers. As the term may be misleading, we should not use it." The professor suggested "problematic consumer" or "bad consumer" as alternatives. Huh Kyung-ok, a professor at Sungshin Women's University's Department of Family and Consumer Science, also criticized the term "white consumer" which has been used by several news outlets and businesses here to refer to ethical consumers who demand their rights, not making unreasonable complaints. "The term black consumer reminds people of dark skin," the professor said. "We cannot compare behavior of consumers to such colors as black, white and grey." The Korea Consumer Agency uses the phrase, "consumer having excessive complaints," instead of the controversial term, to avoid taking negative attitudes toward those who point out obvious mistakes made by business owners. The nation's financial institutes and companies have also refrained from using the term "black consumer." The Financial Supervisory Service does not use the term in its own documents or official press releases. The Industrial Bank of Korea uses the phrase, "consumer with problematic behavior," instead of "black consumer." A Shinsegae spokesman said his company uses the term as it is still used widely in Korea. The Nanjing Massacre memorial commemorates the killing of about 300,000 Chinese civilians by Japanese troops in 1937. Photo from South China Morning Post By Simone McCarthy Two foreigners in China are being investigated by Shenzhen Cyber police in Guangdong province, southeastern China after allegedly posting anti-Chinese hate speech and slurs relating to the Nanking massacre in an English-language WeChat group chat. Screenshots from the group chat purport to show two members using racially derogatory language and making allusions to the 1937 Japanese mass murder of 300,000 Chinese at the place now called Nanjing. The messages, which appear to have been sent last week, were mainly directed towards one group member, who objected to the use of a racial slur in the chat. He was identified as Chinese in a local media report. "Wow since when this group turn racial [sic]," asked the user, identified by local media as a Shenzhen resident, known by the handle Master Gao. His message was followed by responses from two others in the 88-person chat group accusing Chinese people of being "cowards" and directly referencing the massacre. The screenshots have spread across Chinese social media, prompting an outpouring of anger, as well as coverage of the story in the ?Modern Express newspaper, 1,400km (870 miles) away in Nanjing, Jiangsu province in eastern China. The social media furor was further stoked when a media report suggested one of the foreign men involved was an English-language teacher. The incident comes less than a week after the first prosecution under China's new Heroes and Martyrs Protection Law, enacted on May 1, which outlaws defaming or insulting Communist war heroes and martyrs. In that case, a "rage comics" company was ordered to pay 100,000 yuan (US$14,500) in damages to the family of Communist civil war hero Ye Ting. It is unlikely the same civil law, which is geared towards cases of defamation against a specific individual, would apply in a general case referencing a historical event, such as this one. It is unlikely that China's new heroes and martyrs protection law would apply in a general case referencing a historical event, such as the 1937 massacre at the place now called Nanjing. Xinhua By Nectar Gan, Xiw Yu China's highest-earning actress Fan Bingbing has been ordered to pay nearly 892 million yuan (about US$130 million) for tax evasion and other offences, the country's tax authorities announced on Wednesday, over three months after the film star disappeared from public view. Fan, whose disappearance has caught global attention, was released from "residential surveillance at a designated location" a form of secret detention about two weeks ago as the tax authorities completed their investigation, sources with knowledge of her case told the South China Morning Post. The 37-year-old and her companies had underpaid a total of more than 255 million yuan of taxes, including close to 200 million yuan of tax evasion, according to state news agency Xinhua. She was fined more than 479 million yuan (about US$70 million) personally and ordered to pay more than 288 million yuan in unpaid taxes, and her companies were fined a total of 125 million yuan. The government said that, as a first-time offender, she would not face criminal charges if she pays all of the money by an undisclosed deadline, Xinhua reported. A source close to Fan said she had been kept in a "holiday resort" used to investigate officials in a suburb in the coastal Jiangsu province. She has since been transferred to authorities in Beijing for further investigation of her affairs, the source added. Quake survivors scuffle to get live chickens being distributed from a police truck outside a makeshift camp in Palu in Indonesia's Central Sulawesi on October 2, 2018, after an earthquake and tsunami hit the area on September 28. The Indonesian government on October 2 said the death toll from a devastating quake-tsunami on the island of Sulawesi had risen to 1,234 people, up from the previous count of 844. AFP-Yonhap More than 1,200 people are now known to have died in the quake-tsunami that smashed into Sulawesi, Indonesia said Tuesday, as police pledged to clamp down on looting by survivors taking advantage of the chaos. There were reports of officers firing warning shots and tear gas to ward off people ransacking shops in Palu, a coastal city ravaged by a 7.5-magnitude quake and the tsunami it spawned. Almost 200,000 people are in need of urgent help, the United Nations says, among them tens of thousands of children. Survivors are battling thirst and hunger, with food and clean water in short supply, and local hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of injured. Police said Tuesday that they had previously tolerated desperate survivors taking food and water from closed shops, but had now arrested dozens of people for stealing computers and cash. "On the first and second day clearly no shops were open. People were hungry. There were people in dire need. That's not a problem," said deputy national police chief Ari Dono Sukmanto. "But after day two, the food supply started to come in, it only needed to be distributed. We are now re-enforcing the law." "There are ATMs. They are open," he added. "If people steal, we catch and investigate," he said. People queue up to collect gasoline at a petrol station in Palu in Central Sulawesi on October 2, 2018, four days after a strong earthquake and tsunami hit the area. AFP-Yonhap Despite official assurances, desperation was evident on the streets of Palu, where survivors clambered through wreckage hunting for anything salvageable. Others crowded around daisy-chained power strips at the few buildings that still have electricity, or queued for water, cash or petrol being brought in via armed police convoy. "The government, the president have come here, but what we really need is food and water," Burhanuddin Aid Masse, 48, told AFP. Queues to get a few litres of petrol lasted more than 24 hours in some places. Sanitation is also a growing problem. "People everywhere want to go to the toilet but there's no toilet. So we do it along the road at night," said 50-year-old Armawati Yarmin. Rescue efforts have been hampered by a lack of heavy machinery, severed transport links, the scale of the damage, and the Indonesian government's initial reluctance to accept foreign help. Along the road to Donggala a large town close to the epicentre of the quake there were more scenes of destruction. The town itself appeared relatively unscathed, but in the worst affected areas it was difficult to find a single vertical surface. Donggala resident Farid, aged 48, pleaded for help: "Don't centre all the aid on Palu," he said. "We in Donggala have nothing." As if to remind the world of the tectonic fragility of Indonesia, a series of quakes hit the island of Sumba on Tuesday, albeit hundreds of kilometres from Palu. The official death toll from the tragedy in central Sulawesi stood at 1,234, according to the government. People carry away goods from minimarket warehouse in the earthquake and tsunami-devastated area in Palu, Sulawesi, Indonesia, October 1, 2018 in this photo taken by Antara Foto. REUTERS-Yonhap Kendallville, IN (46755) Today Cloudy skies with a few snow showers after midnight. Low 31F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 30%.. Tonight Cloudy skies with a few snow showers after midnight. Low 31F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 30%. Angola, IN (46703) Today Cloudy skies with a few snow showers after midnight. Low 31F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 30%.. Tonight Cloudy skies with a few snow showers after midnight. Low 31F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 30%. Freely accessible local news is vital. Please power our reporters and help keep us independent with a donation today. Start your day with LAist Sign up for the Morning Brief, delivered weekdays. Subscribe A Camarillo man who says he was molested by a local priest in Anaheim in the 1970s is suing the state's Catholic bishops for civil conspiracy and nuisance. The lawsuit filed Tuesday in the Los Angeles Superior Court alleges Catholic officials across California covered up criminal activity by keeping known and suspected abusers in ministry, moving them from church to church and failing to report abuse to police. At a news conference, plaintiff Tom Emens said his aim is to prevent future abuse. "If we don't protect the kids going forward, then what are we doing here?" he said. Emens said he was abused by Monsignor Thomas Joseph Mohan for two years beginning in 1978, when Emens was 10 years old. The now-deceased priest arrived at St. Anthony Claret Catholic Church in Anaheim in the early 1970s from Chicago, according to the lawsuit. Mohan's name is not among the hundreds released by California Church officials in recent years as having credible accusations of child abuse against them. "This lawsuit is really the only opportunity I have at this point in time to find justice not just for myself, but to bring all of the victims that are in the shadows out, and to help them moving forward," Emmens said. California lawmakers voted to approve a bill that would have temporarily removed the statute of limitations from child sex abuse cases, giving people like Emmens their day in court. But Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed the measure on Sunday. Attorney Jeff Anderson said the legal advocates aren't looking for financial restitution, but to compel church officials to release records on clergy abuse. "To force all of the bishops in California to come clean, with the secrets that they know -- the identities of the offenders, and the histories of cooperation and complicity by top officials," Anderson said. Anderson, who's been representing victims of clergy abuse for decades, says he's used public nuisance suits to force disclosures in Minnesota and New York. "The Catholic bishops in California, in real time, and in the past, have engaged in such dangerous practices that there is and has been a grave peril to children to communities across the state, and to communities around the world where predator priests have been sent," Anderson said. The California bishops said the state's dioceses have taken positive steps over the past 15 years to protect children from abuse, adopting a "zero tolerance" standard for abuse and independent review boards to advise bishops on personnel decisions. "These measures have been effective," said California Catholic Conference spokesman Steve Pehanich. "Allegations of abuse have been rare since 2003, responded to and uniformly reported, but we know we can never be complacent. The twelve dioceses of California will never waver in their commitment to protect young people." The L.A. Archdiocese released a trove of personnel files on predatory priests in 2013, as part of a $660-million legal settlement. It acknowledged its mishandling of abuse allegations, and said officials in the country's largest Catholic archdiocese have been forthcoming with authorities ever since. "The Archdiocese has acknowledged and taken responsibility for the failures and mistakes in the way abuse cases were handled in the past," the Archdiocese said in a statement. Aside from the suit, the Jeff Anderson and Associates law firm also released a 120-page report detailing clerical sexual abuse in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Most of the material in the report came from the released 2013 files, but the firm's report includes at least 30 names that haven't been named in church documents. Anderson said the litigation and report were inspired by the grand jury report in Pennsylvania documenting widespread child sexual abuse and coverup across the state. Aaron Schrank covers religion, international affairs and the Southern California diaspora under a grant from the Luce Foundation. Hey, thanks. You read the entire story. And we love you for that. Here at LAist, our goal is to cover the stories that matter to you, not advertisers. We don't have paywalls, but we do have payments (aka bills). So if you love independent, local journalism, join us. Let's make the world a better place, together. Donate now. Freely accessible local news is vital. Please power our reporters and help keep us independent with a donation today. Start your day with LAist Sign up for the Morning Brief, delivered weekdays. Subscribe One of the most talked about and contested propositions on California's November ballot is Proposition 10, the so-called "Affordable Housing Act." It goes before voters at a time when rents across California are higher than they have ever been, with almost a third of the state's renters paying more than half of their monthly income on rents. Enter Proposition 10, a ballot initiative that's set off a $60 million spending war between California's landlord lobby on one side, and the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and tenants' rights activists on the other. Read on: WHAT WOULD PROPOSITION 10 CHANGE? If passed, Proposition 10 would repeal the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act. That would open the door for much wider implementation of rent-stabilization or rent-control policies by cities, something that has been very restricted since the act passed more than two decades ago. But there would be limits on the limits. Prop 10 also specifies that cities not pass any policy that would infringe on "a landlord's right to a fair rate of return on a property." OK, SO WHAT IS THE COSTA-HAWKINS RENTAL HOUSING ACT? Costa-Hawkins is a three-part law that sets strict limits on a local jurisdiction's legal authority to regulate the rental housing market. The bill was passed by a Democratic state legislature in 1995 and signed into law by Republican Governor Pete Wilson. The provisions of the bill most relevant today prohibit any city from regulating the rental market in apartment buildings built after 1995, as well as all single-family homes and condominiums statewide. The act also bars any city that had rent regulation rules on the books in 1995 from expanding them further. Los Angeles, for example, passed a citywide Rent Stabilization Ordinance in 1978, but Costa-Hawkins prohibits Los Angeles from changing its rules to include even apartment buildings built up to 1995. Other Southern California cities with existing rent regulation include West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Thousand Oaks, and Palm Springs. Costa-Hawkins also explicitly prohibits what's called "vacancy control," a strict form of rent regulation that limits the amount a landlord can raise rent for any particular unit when leasing to a new tenant. When Costa-Hawkins was passed, only two cities in California -- Berkeley and Santa Monica -- had a form of vacancy control on the books. SO, PASSING PROP 10 WOULDN'T BRING RENT CONTROL EVERYWHERE OVERNIGHT? Correct. A repeal of Costa-Hawkins won't change anything overnight for the vast majority of California's residents. If Prop 10 were to pass, it opens the door for future rent-stabilization or rent-control rules passed on a local, municipal level. Exactly what kind of rental regulations local jurisdictions would seek to pass -- or, if they would even pass new rules at all -- is anybody's guess. But, keep in mind that those rules don't come from Proposition 10. Proposition 10 is about whether or not local jurisdictions should be able to make those rules in the first place. UPDATE Oct. 11: One key area that would change overnight? In cities that had rules on the books when Costa-Hawkins passed, its repeal would immediately put single family residences and condos under rent control guidelines. See below for a list of affected cities, according to a leading Prop. 10 opposition group. WHY DO PEOPLE SUPPORT PROP 10? Renters in California -- especially in Southern California -- are extremely burdened by housing costs. Approximately one-third of all the renting households in Los Angeles and Orange Counties pay more than half of their income on housing, according to Harvard's Joint Center For Housing Studies. In Los Angeles County, about 600,000 people -- 6 percent of the county's population -- live in households where 90 percent of all income goes to housing, according to the Economic Round Table. Bear in mind that the traditional rule-of-thumb is that housing is "unaffordable" if it eats up more than 30 percent of a household's income. When people spend so much of their income on housing alone, it means that money isn't getting spent elsewhere in the economy. It also means people are at a high risk of becoming homeless, which is exactly why more people than ever before are becoming homeless for the first time. Approximately two-thirds of the people currently experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles County are homeless for economic reasons, according to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority. "Economic reasons" in this context could mean a person barely scraping by at the end of the month loses a source of income and isn't able to make a monthly housing payment. The argument from the Yes on 10 campaign follows that if rental rates are regulated, tenants will be at least slightly more secure in their homes because landlords can't raise the rent beyond a predetermined amount. It would eliminate renter horror stories where landlords opt to raise rents by hundreds of dollars at a time, amounting to a de-facto eviction for tenants hit with the increase. If Prop 10 passed, it would also allow for these policies in all rental units, including single family homes. And rent control policies have been shown to minimize displacement in wild housing markets, as a Stanford study of San Francisco's rent control policies found last year: "We find that absent rent control essentially all of those incentivized to stay in their apartments would have otherwise moved out of San Francisco." WHY ARE PEOPLE AGAINST PROP 10? Well, capitalism is one reason. Limiting how much rent can be raised -- despite what the market might bear -- takes money out of the hands of the landlord, which is an argument made by the California Apartment Association. The Legislative Analyst's assessment of implications for the state found that passing Prop 10 could potentially reduce state and local revenue by "tens of millions of dollars in the long term." That's due to projected losses in property taxes. (Although the analysis also predicts an uptick in sales taxes if renters have more discretionary income to spend.) Another argument with wider appeal is this: rental regulations would slow the construction of new housing units in California. The state's housing crisis is fueled by a shortage of at least 2 million units statewide, and the only way to address the root issue is by building more homes. Any measure that potentially limits how much rent can be charged may also make building those new units less appealing to developers and investors. Economists generally argue that rent control rules on new buildings discourages new construction because developers opt to build in jurisdictions where their profit margins aren't limited by public policy. That ambiguity over how local jurisdictions might regulate the rental market, and the potential for it to limit the profit margins of existing landlords, is probably why the state's landlord and real-estate lobby has channeled $47 million to the 'No on 10' campaign. If Prop 10 were to pass, it's very possible property owners would have to head off rent regulation proposals in lots of different cities around the state at once. From the landlord's side, it's preferable to prevent any new rules from getting proposed in the first place, which is effectively what the Costa-Hawkins Act has done for 23 years. SO WHAT SHOULD I DO, LAIST? I'M MORE CONFUSED NOW THAN WHEN I STARTED READING?! There's no simple answer to California's housing crisis. The state needs to: Build an enormous amount of new homes -- at least 2 million more units are needed today -- to make up for about 40 years of constrained production. Address a crisis of homelessness that has at least 100,000 Californians living without permanent shelter. Stem more people being driven into homelessness or leaving the state because so much of their income has to go to housing costs. The extent to which those goals are mutually exclusive is a point of fierce debate among academics and housing policy wonks. Part of the issue? The gap between how much money people at the high end of the rental market earn versus people at the low end. And just adding units on the high end isn't enough. Harvard University earlier this year reported that "although adding new supply at the upper end should, in theory, cause older housing to filter down the rent scale, this process has not produced an adequate supply of rentals at the low end." UPDATE: CITIES WHERE MORE IMMEDIATE CHANGES WOULD TAKE PLACE Steven Maviglio, a spokesman for Californians for Responsible Housing, a main Prop. 10 opposition group, sent an email Oct.11 noting that there were locations that would be immediately affected by the repeal of Costa-Hawkins. According to his group's research, the following cities fall into the category of places that had rent control laws on the books that would be applied (note that the local laws in some cases vary on definition and details): Single family homes and condos Berkeley East Palo Alto Mountain View Oakland Palm Springs Richmond San Francisco Santa Monica Condos Los Angeles San Jose Get ready for the Nov. 6 election. Here at LAist, we want to make sure Angelenos have all the information they need to cast their votes. To get prepped on deadlines, candidates and ballot measures, check out our Voter Game Plan. And if you liked this election guide, consider supporting us! You can donate here. Do Muoi, former General Secretary of the CPV Central Committee (Photo: VNA) Do Muoi was former General Secretary of the CPV Central Committee. We highly value the achievements and great contributions of Comrade Do Muoi during the struggle for national independence in the past, as well as in the nation-building and construction of the country during the 80 plus years of his revolutionary career, read the message. It also highlighted the contributions that Do Muoi made to the reinforcement of friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two Parties, States, and peoples. The passing away of Do Muoi is a loss of a close friend of the Party, State, and people of Laos, it added. The Lao side also extended deep condolences to the family of Do Muoi. Do Muoi was also a member of the CPV Central Committee in the third to eighth tenures and member of the Politburo for the fifth to eighth tenures. He served as the General Secretary of the CPV Central Committee from June 1991 to December 1997. He was born on February 2nd, 1917, and passed away at 23h12 on October 1st at Military Hospital 108 in Hanoi./. Freely accessible local news is vital. Please power our reporters and help keep us independent with a donation today. Start your day with LAist Sign up for the Morning Brief, delivered weekdays. Subscribe THIS STORY IS PART OF HOW TO L.A., OUR ONGOING SERIES OF PRACTICAL GUIDES FOR DAY-TO-DAY LIVING IN LOS ANGELES. In Austin, barbecue means brisket and sausage. Classic Memphis 'cue is strictly pork with chili and paprika rubs. Kansas City is all that and more but covered in sauce. North Carolina combines the skills of Caribbean pitmasters, Spanish conquistadors and British immigrants' love of vinegar. Whatever their differences, every style of barbecue is the result of cultures rubbing up against each other. But to BBQ snobs, Los Angeles isn't even in the mix. It has long been just another city with a borrowed barbecue tradition. Barbecue really arrived in L.A. during the Second Great Migration in the 1940s, when more African-Americans came to Southern California -- and brought their Southern barbecue traditions with them. Since then, the norm here has been Texas-style beef ribs covered in sweet, peppery, deep red sauce. In the last decade, the city's barbecue scene has been reinvigorated. From high-end digs on Hollywood and Vine to pits literally outside of a guy's garage, we're seeing more diversity in the kind of barbecue you can find. Could Los Angeles, with our patchwork of cultures all sampling each others' cuisines, be primed to redefine smoked meat? That's a tad optimistic. But there has never been a better time to be a barbecue fan in the City of Angels. Brisket at Trudy's Underground. (Photo by Lisa Waters for LAist) BRISKET An amazing brisket is tricky to pull off. You have to achieve that thick, smoke-blackened bark on the outside while keeping the meat as tender and flavorful as possible. It's an hours-long process that even experienced pitmasters have trouble replicating. Burt Bakman, the self-deprecating culinary whiz who's been selling brisket in front of his garage in the San Fernando Valley (shh, Instagram reservations only) as Trudy 's Underground (and soon at his brick-and-mortar spot, Slab on 3rd), is a barbecue obsessive chasing the perfect brisket with the intensity of Roger Bannister trying to break the 4-minute mile. Rhodesian by birth (long story), he didn't taste Texas-style brisket until his mid-20s, but you wouldn't know it from the way he gets the fat to melt into the meat under that peppered crust. Follow him on Instagram and witness the quest for yourself. Maple Block Meat Co. is an upscale joint that serves beautifully smoke-ringed slices of brisket. You can choose between lean or fatty cuts. The correct answer is fatty but you should take chef Adam Cole's advice and order at least one lean piece so you can take the occasional bite to remind yourself how perfect the fatty ones are. 3973 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City. 310-313-6328. Robert Earl's BBQ in Long Beach is almost as much about the man as it is the meat. Starting in his backyard before expanding to a farmer's market, then his own restaurant almost five years ago, Earl befriends his regulars and responds to compliments from newbies with a smiling, "Welcome to the family!" His brisket has just the right level of moisture. When served on a sesame-seed bun with his sweet but vinegary Kansas City-style sauce, it flakes away into morsels so succulent you might find yourself scraping the paper to make sure you didn't leave anything behind. 703 E. Artesia Blvd., Long Beach. 562-726-1116 Honorable Mentions: Moo's Craft Barbecue in East L.A., Bartz BBQ pop-up around the South Bay (both now also at Smorgasburg) and My Father' s Barbecue in Carson also make tasty brisket. Short ribs by Matt Horn. (Photo by Ben Waters for LAist) RIBS Angelenos have had solid rib options for more than half a century, but there's always room for a newcomer. Perched on a corner lot surrounded by firewood, JNJ Bar-B-Que serves Louisiana-style ribs. Their pork short end ribs (which come from the end of the slab furthest from the pig's shoulder blade) are fall-off-the-bone tender. They're swimming in a tangy, molasses-based sauce that, hot or mild, could hold its own against Kansas City's best. 5754 W. Adams Blvd., West Adams. 323-934-5390. At Phillip' s Barbecue , the meat doesn't fall from the bone, a state that some purists think is overcooked. Instead it's firm, peppery, smoky and comes away from the rib in one piece. After more than two decades, Phillip's has expanded to multiple locations and remains one of L.A.'s barbecue pillars. 2619 Crenshaw Blvd., West Adams, 323-731-4772. 1517 Centinela Ave., Inglewood. 310-412-7135. Adam Perry Lang, known for his incredible pop-up behind the Late Night with Jimmy Kimmel show and his assistance improving the barbecue capabilities of multiple local restaurants, delighted fans when he announced he'd be opening APL, a brick-and-mortar spot in Hollywood. Alas, it's "only" a steakhouse but the menu features one barbecue item, his signature beef short ribs. At $175, it's the most expensive item on this list by a mile, but it's mouthwatering and it theoretically serves at least three people. 1680 Vine St., Hollywood. 323-416-1280. Honorable Mention: NorCal BBQ star Matt Horn makes masterful pork ribs if you can catch his next L.A. pop-up. PULLED PORK Pulled pork is America's first barbecue style. When Spaniards came to the "New World," they discovered the low and slow cooking techniques of the Taino West Indian natives. It was the perfect way to make the most of the now-lean pigs they'd brought overseas. People on this side of the world have been preparing them that way ever since. Max City BBQ is a chill, rustic 'cue spot that, despite not being physically close to much aside from car lots, gives off a homey vibe. There's a lot to like on the menu and their pulled pork can be enjoyed on its own, in a sandwich topped with vinegar-based sauce and coleslaw or, if you make it in time for Happy Hour, in the grilled cheese special, which is served on Texas toast and oozing with buttery decadence. 4729 Eagle Rock Blvd., Eagle Rock. 323-254-4227. The upscale iteration of Bludso' s Bar & Que doesn't achieve the heights of the late, great original location in Compton, but with a diverse list of local beers and a menu featuring every standard American smoked meat, it's still one of the city's best all-around barbecue restaurants. Their pulled pork is outstanding, imbued with melted fat and crisp tips. 609 N. La Brea Ave., Fairfax. 323-931-2583. Gus's smoked sausage. (Photo by Lisa Waters for LAist) SAUSAGE Lesser barbecue restaurants will often use pre-made sausages but a good housemade sausage is a great indicator of what a chef really likes. Aside from their ribs, the other standout at Phillip's Barbecue is their housemade beef and chicken hot links. They're moist, spicy and have the snap of a genuine casing. Get the hot sauce on the side, in case you can't handle it. After a well-executed refresh a decade ago, Gus's has transformed from a fading '40s throwback to a top-notch sit down barbecue joint that celebrates its past while building on it. The juicy, crispy fried chicken is a scene-stealer, but don't sleep on the smoked beef sausages that bring a sweet, juicy heat. 808 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena. 626-799-3251. TRI-TIP Residents of California's Central Coast have been roasting slabs of beef over red oak flames for more than 150 years, but the signature tri-tip cut (a triangular muscle from the bottom sirloin of a steer) wasn't popularized until a grocer began marketing it by that name in the '50s. The Santa Maria style is so restrictively simple -- the only seasonings are salt, garlic salt and pepper -- that anything less than the best specimens can come off like an average piece of grilled beef. Finding excellent tri-tip this far south of Santa Maria is challenging. Even fans of the stuff rarely have an L.A. spot they love but rather one they make do with. Saturdays, Handy Market fires up its grills and fans line up for their tri-tip fix, whether they order it plain or drenched in a tangy, sweet sauce. The portions are massive and served a rare pink. If you want to skip the wait, they've got premade tri-tip sandwiches waiting inside. 2514 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank. 818-848-2500. If you're not a strict follower of the Santa Maria doctrine, consider the tri-tip at Boneyard Bistro in Sherman Oaks. Sure, it's cooked inside their kitchen, but it is grilled over an open flame fueled by traditional red oak, so what they put out is still a good example of the form. Not too far removed from a fine, sliced steak, it's peppery on the outside and juicy on the inside. Don't forget the fried mac and cheese. 13539 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks. 818-906-7427 You may need to follow Santa Maria BBQ on social media to find out when their takeout window is open. When it is, order the melt-in-your-mouth tri-tip. You can get it straight up, in tacos and burritos with rice and beans or on a sandwich topped with Caesar dressing. Some might consider these accompaniments to be too much but when meat prepared this well is used in other dishes it ends up elevating them. 3845 Jasmine Ave., Culver City. 310-559-5709. L.A. ORIGINALS The Hungry Pig makes well-executed versions of all the American classics, from brisket to tri-tip. Thanks to owner Eiddy Pennson's background, the baby back ribs have a Thai kick to their dry rub, the pulled pork comes with a kimchi slaw and the sides include curried potatoes and curry chicken sa-te. 2920 W. Temple St., HiFi. 213-387-7787. Clutch, from Oscar Hermosillo of Cervateca, is a Cali-Mex barbecue "roadhouse" that combines American barbecue with Sonoran grilling culture. The result is a menu divided into the tacos of "Mexi Turf," the U.S. barbece of "Cali Turf" and the straight-up seafood of "Surf". The flavors bleed into each other, so don't expect "authentic" anything, but if serving dry-rubbed ribs alongside guacamole and queso is wrong, then we don't wanna be right. 427 Lincoln Blvd., Venice. 310-396-8749. The Park's Finest offers a Filipino take on American barbecue. From the hot links and sweet longanisa sausage to the coconut-tinged cornbread bibingka and the soy-and-pineapple infused BBQ sauce, the Pinoy influence is integrated into all the restaurant's dishes. You can taste how they evolved from multiple cultures coming together in the backyard barbecues of Echo Park. You won't find anyplace like this anywhere but here. 1267 W. Temple St., HiFi. 213-481-2800. Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that the meat at Boneyard Bistro was not cooked over an open flame. You made it! Congrats, you read the entire story, you gorgeous human. This story was made possible by generous people like you. Independent, local journalism costs $$$$$. And now that LAist is part of KPCC, we rely on that support. So if you aren't already, be one of us! Help us help you live your best life in Southern California. Donate now. New Lifeguard chief chosen The City of San Diego Fire-Rescue Department (SDFD) has appointed James Gartland its new lifeguard division chief. Gartland has served as interim chief for the past six months. We have some of the best public-safety professionals in the country so it should come as no surprise that we hired one of our own to lead our lifeguard division, said Mayor Kevin Faulconer. Chief Gartland has protected San Diego residents and visitors enjoying our beautiful beaches and bays for more than two decades and he is the right choice to lead our lifeguard division into the future. Gartland replaces former lifeguard chief Rick Wurtz, who retired in March after 30 years with SDFD. Said Gartland: Attaining this position has been a dream of mine and I am honored to have been selected. La Jolla researcher wins $450k breast-cancer grant The Susan G. Komen breast-cancer organization has granted nearly $450k to Svasti Haricharan, assistant professor at La Jollas Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, to develop a diagnostic assay predictive of which ER+ breast-cancer patients may become resistant to hormone therapies. Komen continues its long-standing investment in the next generation of scientists, to ensure that brilliant researchers whose careers are just beginning have funding to pursue their novel ideas, said Komen chief scientific advisor Jennifer Pietenpol. The grants are part of $26 million in new investment that Komen recently announced to find solutions for aggressive and metastatic breast cancers. Party at the Pantai! On Sept. 25, Laurnie Durisoe held a VIP party in the courtyard of the Pantai Inn, the luxury hotel she owns at 1003 Coast Blvd., to roll out an adventure travel package to be promoted to travel agents at the San Diego Travel & Adventure Show, Jan. 19-20 at the San Diego Convention Center. Sand and Splash will offer outdoorsy tourists ATV rides in Baja California through Academy Rentals and Tours, kayaking in La Jolla through Everyday California Adventures & Apparel, and accommodations at the Pantai. Its exciting to showcase La Jolla as part of a travel adventure product, Durisoe said. People travel from all over the world to La Jolla to enjoy the ocean thats right on our doorstep. St. James launches service for young families St. James By-the-Sea Episcopal Church is starting an alternative church service aimed at families with young children. Called Topsy Turvy, it meets 5-6:30 p.m. on first Saturdays with songs, Bible stories, crafts and a kid-friendly potluck meal, with the goal of being a silly, messy, joyful new way of doing church. The next event will be led by the Rev. Mark Hargreaves at 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6 in the parish hall, 6743 Prospect St. Spokesperson Robin Taylor said of the service: We have found that the tradition of Sunday morning worship doesnt necessarily fit into the lives of modern families, which are often complicated by sports, birthday parties, etc. Families are still searching for spiritual meaning and transmission of faith-stories, but in a less structured way. We think Topsy Turvy will meet them where they are, both logistically and spiritually. For more details, call (858) 459-3421 or e-mail robin@sjbts.org Fine kettle of Fishman winners La Jollas Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute handed out its annual Fishman Awards to postdocs who have made extraordinary efforts and encourages their passion for careers in science. This years recipients announced during a ceremony at the Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine were Usue Etxaniz Irigoien, Koen Galenkamp, Martin-Sancho and Ee Phie Tan. The career development awards provide a $10,000 stipend for postdocs to attend workshops and travel to national and international conferences to learn the latest developments in their research fields. Since the funds inception, 64 recipients have been awarded. Dog microchips ahoy! The San Diego Humane Society is microchipping San Diego dogs for free during Saturdays in October. The promotion comes in advance of Halloween, when shelters typically see a substantial increase in lost dogs due to creepy costumes and opening doors for trick-or-treaters. Were offering free microchips so people can protect their pets and reunite with them faster should they become lost, says Beau Archer, VP of animal welfare for San Diego Humane Society. Dogs will be chipped for free every Saturday in October, 8-10 a.m., at the Humane Societys San Diego Campus, 5500 Gaines St. No appointments will be taken, and the Humane Society recommends arriving early, since supplies may not last. For more info, visit https://bit.ly/2xBv1nW STDs on rise in San Diego Syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia continued to rise in San Diego County for the third consecutive year in 2017, peaking at their highest levels in two decades. According to new data from the County Health and Human Services Agency, infectious syphilis increased by 15.2 percent, from 981 cases in 2016 to 1,130 cases in 2017. Chlamydia cases also increased by 10 percent from 18,904 cases in 2016 to 20,801 cases in 2017. And gonorrhea increased by 19.1 percent in the County, from 4,992 cases in 2016 to 5,947 cases in 2017. The number of STDs increased in the state and the nation last year, and San Diego was no exception, said County public health officer Wilma Wooten. Sexually active people should take precautionary measures to avoid getting infected and get tested on a regular basis since many STDs dont show any symptoms and may go unnoticed until complications develop. Time to register to vote! The registration deadline for the Nov. 6 general election is Monday, Oct. 22, and if youve recently moved or changed your name and want to vote, you need to complete a new registration form. If youre not sure youre registered, check your status online at sdvote.com MCASD workshop to engage educators in art All San Diego County educators are welcome to attend Educators Engage! on 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6 at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, 1100 Kettner Blvd. The participatory professional-development seminar featuring break-out sessions led by MCASD partner teachers and the Museums gallery educators covers how contemporary art enriches curricula across all content areas. The subjects will include in-gallery teaching techniques for the classroom, ways to integrate exhibitions into school curricula and discussions about the importance of empathy, restorative practices, and racial equity from a contemporary-art perspective. Admission is $25 and includes continental breakfast, refreshments, lunch and a drink ticket for a networking happy hour. More details at mcasd.org/events/educators-engage Sundays Surf-A-Thon will benefit Boys to Men network Two hundred surfers will hit the waves of Mission Beach on Sunday, Oct. 7, determined to catch 100 waves in one day in support of Boys to Men Mentoring Network. The San Diego-based nonprofit is dedicated to helping disconnected, often fatherless boys become good men. Surf Legends and 100 Wave Challenge Surf Ambassadors Shaun Tomson (1977 World Surfing Champion) and Damien Hobgood (World Tour Team Member) will lead this pack of bighearted surfers into the lineup in the early morning hours. Surfers will be cheered on throughout the day by family and friends, who will gather on the beach for a community celebration of surfing for an important cause. The 100 Wave Challenge is Boys to Men co-founder Joe Sigurdsons Big Idea. The thought of an annual surf-a-thon crossed his mind nearly a decade ago, during a surf session at Blacks Beach. Sigurdson has paddled into the lineup of every 100 Wave Challenge since the events inception in 2010. From his vantage point as event visionary, sponsorship director and head cheerleader, Sigurdson watching the 100 Wave Challenge grow and thrive has been a joy. Every surfer receives breakfast, lunch, a commemorative rash guard, and exclusive access to the 100 Wave Challenge Surfers Lounge, a shaded sanctuary where surfers can relax between sessions and enjoy a beverage and snacks. A team of volunteer massage therapists will be on hand to ensure that 100 Wave Warriors remain in top physical form during their 100 Wave Challenge experience. Surfers who succeed in catching 100 waves will be invited to celebrate their achievement by ringing a bell located near the entrance of the Surfers Lounge. The event accounts for 40 percent of Boys to Mens annual budget, and brought in $373,000 last year. This years fundraising goal is $400,000. Boys to Men aims to sign up 200 surfers for this years event, compared to 171 in 2017. Learn more at boystomen.org DMV: Unofficial websites charging fees The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is warning the public about websites that are charging customers to complete the electronic driver license and ID card application, for DMV appointments and for other online transactions. The department received reports of websites charging customers a fee to complete the new online driver license application. The DMVs Investigations Division is investigating these websites for any violation of consumer protection laws. The DMV reminds Californians that there are no additional fees to complete the electronic application or any online services. Also, there is only one official website for conducting business with the DMV: dmv.ca.gov To avoid paying unnecessary fees, only conduct online transactions on this official website. If a customer believes they have encountered a fraudulent website, e-mail DMVs Investigations Division at ReportFraud@dmv.ca.gov October is when to get your flu shot The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting vaccinated for the 2018-19 flu season by the end of October, before influenza begins spreading. (It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body.) Getting the flu vaccine is simple, and its the most important thing you can do to protect yourself and your family, says Paul Downey, president and CEO of Serving Seniors. Talk to your doctor or other health care professional about which vaccine is best for you and your family. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized in the U.S. from flu complications alone each year. In fact, during the 2014-2015 flu season, 710,000 Americans were hospitalized and 56,000 died, according to the CDC. Studies show that flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors visits, missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths. Use the HealthMap Vaccine Finder at vaccinefinder.org or call (866) 358-2966 to find your nearest vaccination location. Public overlooks from Tourmaline State Beach to La Jolla Farms will be inventoried and, ideally, improved in the coming years, as part of the budding partnership between La Jolla Parks & Beaches (LJP&B) advisory group and the Bird Rock Community Council (BRCC). Before the two groups started working together, members of the BRCC Coastal Overlooks Committee were surveying the overlooks in Bird Rock to determine which ones were in need of care. At the same time, LJP&B trustee Melinda Merryweather was looking to do the same thing in The Village and northward. Only when LJP&B chair Ann Dynes spoke at the BRCC meeting last month to seek collaboration on the City of San Diegos Parks Master Plan did the two groups realize how similar their efforts were. In introducing this partnership to the broader LJP&B committee, BRCC Coastal Overlook Committee co-chairs Mary Lynn Hyde and Don Schmidt explained their efforts thus far. This committee was formed because (in recent years) the City stopped trash pick-up at the overlooks, so our scenic spots started to become a problem. They became more and more neglected. A year ago, we approached BRCC saying we needed to do something to clean them up, Schmidt said. Already, he added, Weve put together a draft booklet identifying the scenic overlooks, view corridors and public parks, along with the corresponding issues for each location. Because she was already doing the same thing, Merryweather collaborated with Hyde to share findings. We walked from Tourmaline to the end of La Jolla Farms and took pictures of all the overlooks and matched them with old books to see what needs to be done, Merryweather said. Upon completion of this inventory, acting LJP&B chair Bill Robbins suggested that the locations be given numbers so they can be formally inventoried going forward, and improve communication between lifeguards and those who call upon them from these locations. A lot of these places have different names or references, some are formal, some are just known among La Jollans but with tourists and everyone having a cell phone, someone might call something in and the dispatcher will have no idea where they are the caller would have to guess or give a cross street. A numerical identification system would allow someone calling for help to give a precise, consistent location. One of the items noted in the inventory, is the rotting rails at Moss Lane that need to be replaced. (Ashley Mackin-Solomon) LJP&B trustee John Shannon called it a tremendous opportunity. The inventory project is part of a larger partnership between the two groups that started last month. At the BRCC September meeting, Dynes and volunteer Diane Kane asked for the two groups (along with La Jolla Shores Association) to work together to identify spaces that could be converted to or improved as public recreation spaces, as part of the Citys Parks Master Plan. The Parks Master Plan is intended to look at how park spaces will be managed in the next 20-30 years. But because La Jolla is largely built out, Kane suggested getting creative with spaces that could be preserved for recreation. Its great that the City is asking for input now, even though the Parks Master Plan is years down the road from being implemented, and its perfect timing for us to work together, Merryweather opined. Schmidt added: The committees long-term goal is to work with the community and the City to find permanent solutions for maintaining these areas in perpetuity. There has been some committee talk of creating a friends group to do some volunteering, but that is not letting the City off the hook. It is their obligation to maintain these public parks. There is also some discussion of having some of the overlooks and view accesses become dedicated pocket parks. Were all La Jolla and all on the same page, he said. To provide a more direct connection, there is an effort underway to have a BRCC member join the LJP&B. In other LJP&B news Slope Restoration schedule: As part of his report, Mauricio Medina, representing City Council member Barbara Bry, said he hoped to have more information next month on when construction will resume on the Torrey Pines Road Slope restoration project. Bry and local community planning groups have asked that the work be conducted at night to deter traffic backups. Bike Path donation: Following the formation of the Fay Avenue Bike Path committee last month, LJP&B trustee Sally Miller announced the Kiwanis Club of La Jolla granted the board $1,500 to pay for the next community clean up. The committee would coordinate the right of entry permits needed to clean the path (also known as the Fay Avenue Extension), and use the grant money to pay for cleaning equipment to remove brush and pick up trash. A community clean-up is planned for later this month. Childrens Pool Plaza: As the Childrens Pool Plaza (formerly known as the Childrens Pool Walk Beautification Project) inches closer to completion, a redesigned plaque to honor donors was approved. At the last meeting, there were critiques that the proposed plaque was too large. The new plans call for a 9-by-12 inch plaque recognizing major donors, placed at an angle against a street-facing boulder about two feet high, alongside the seating wall. A motion to approve the new plaque design and placement passed unanimously. The project (scheduled to be finished in the coming weeks) will redevelop the pedestrian access above Childrens Pool, and include sitting walls and improved pathways. The area will henceforth be known as Childrens Pool Plaza. Pavilion Waiver OK: The board voted unanimously to waive the summer construction moratorium so work would proceed during the summer of 2019 on the planned Scripps Park restroom pavilion. The new restroom pavilion will increase the number of single-stall unisex toilets, and feature benches, outdoor showers, ADA-compliant toilets and indoor showers, and storage for beach equipment. Belvedere Replacement: Although Merryweather sought approval for her plan to replace a belvedere (gazebo) at WindanSea Beach, the vote would have to wait, pending feedback from neighbors. The gazebo that was there was torn down in the late 1980s or early 1990s, between Kolmar and Palomar streets, Merryweather explained. There is no shade anywhere on that street unless you walk down to the WindanSea Shack. Friends of WindanSea would pay most of the cost of replacing it. She added that there is still a pad where the belvedere once was, and that people come to the beach and set up spots there with umbrellas. These belvederes are part of the beauty and charm of La Jolla, she said, explaining that the design would be exactly the same as the existing ones along the coast. However, some members were worried about the impact on those who live nearby. A motion to support pursuing the concept passed, with more information needed before voting for something more formal. La Jolla Parks & Beaches next meets 4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 22 at the Rec Center, 615 Prospect St. During this meeting, there will be representatives from the City to discuss the Parks Master Plan. It is not a bad thing for us, that the route known as the Goldene Strae or the Golden Road as we will get to know it- has escaped the attention of so many. It has been spared being overrun by hordes of tourists and as you will discover I like the idea of the essay as a kind of conglomerate, Brian Dillon writes in his delightfully idiosyncratic Essayism: On Form, Feeling, and Nonfiction: an aggregate either of diverse materials or disparate ways of saying the same or similar things. The idea is that, for both readers and for writers, the essay defies a more coherent definition, that we are drawn to it because it cannot be pinned down. This, of course, is a truism, which does not mean it isnt true. At the same time, such semantic distinctions are beside the point. The essay takes its name from Montaigne: essai, Middle French for an attempt or try. It shares a Latin root with the English word assay. The essay, then, is an attempt to examine or analyze, to stake out a territory, which means it must be conditional, a set of impressions that circles back on itself. Essaying, Dillon writes, is assaying. The passages are many in which the great essayists announce (or denounce, because essayists are sometimes ashamed to be essayists) the tentative nature of their method or form. I agree with all of that except the part about being ashamed to be an essayist. But what do I know? I work in the form. Dillons book is itself a kind of conglomerate, which is to say it is an essay by another name. Opening with a lengthy (as in, two-page) sequential sentence, it wears its influences on its sleeve. This is among Essayisms abiding pleasures, the authors engagement as a reader or better yet, the ongoing interaction between these two related modes. On the death of a moth, humiliation, and how to write, he begins; what another learned about himself the day he fell unconscious from his horse. Advertisement There they are: Virginia Woolf and Montaigne, while the sentence, the form of it, pays homage to William Gass. The strangest and finest expression of Gasss own listomania, Dillon will later tell us, making the connection explicit, comes at the start of his book-length essay On Being Blue, published in 1976. I would love to quote it whole but its far too long, and in truth it is hard to know where the list ends: the entire book is a catalogue. Something similar is true of Essayism, which comes broken into (mostly) brief sections, each purporting to excavate a particular line of reasoning. On Lists, On Dispersal, On Anxiety the topics arise, one after the other, linked by citation or idea. On the Fragment leads to On Aphorisms to On the Detail, as if Dillon is exposing the line of his thinking, which is what the essay, if its working, does. The essay, in other words, is not an answer but a question, a set of questions, a meander, a ramble, rather than an itinerary. Essay writing is an art of digression, in which, Dillon observes, quoting Theodor Adorno, [a]nyone wishing to express something is so carried away by it that he ceases to reflect on it. We get distracted, in other words, by the act of saying from what we thought we had to say. And yet, its also the case that every essay has a center, even if the essayist does not exactly know this when he or she begins. An essay that performs its mode of attention, Dillon puts it in a section titled On Attention, a framing of the act of attending to the world. For Dillon, that mode of attention, or attending, coalesces around the desire for consolation, which he raises five times in the course of the book. Its the only theme (if we can call it that) to be repeated, and the intervals 30 pages, give or take are relatively uniform. This is not serendipitous but structural, as Dillon makes clear in the final On Consolation section. I could never write anything, for example, he acknowledges, without a thorough plan, as if these things essays, articles, reviews, and even whole books could and should be parsed like equations before they were brought into the world. But how else to write? How else to be? Lest that sound contradictory remember Adorno it is also part of the point. Planned or unplanned, the essay is an exploration, constantly creating its own shape. Hence, the reliance on short sections that move back and forth between reading and experience: Dillons battles with suicidal depression, his mothers early death after suffering from same. Is it possible to learn to be depressed to the point of feeling suicidal? he wonders. I think I had learned from my mother how to long for death. There is, he understands, no way to reckon with such a question. Instead, he digresses into a reflection on Roland Barthes final book Camera Lucida, an inquiry (essentially) into grief and image, written directly out of the loss of his mother in 1977, and shadowed by the mourning diary that he had begun to keep after her death. Is it any wonder this is one of Dillons touchstones? I dont share his fascination with Barthes, or for that matter any of the theorists, but I am deeply committed to the self-exposure he uncovers in the work. Something similar might be said of Essayism, which also has roots in the death of its authors mother, sublimating and expressing its bereavement at once. This double vision, this built-in ambiguity or opposition, has everything to do with the paradox at the center of Dillons project, which involves allowing your text, allowing yourself, to say many contradictory things at once. The essay, in other words, is not an answer but a question, a set of questions, a meander, a ramble, rather than an itinerary. [T]hese fragments I have written, Dillon tells us, misremembering (or rewriting) T.S. Eliot, in the sure knowledge that my ruin is coming, and this is all Ive got. Essayism by Brian Dillon (New York Review Books) Where does this leave us? Essayism stands against the expectation that it leave us anywhere at all. Instead, Dillon argues, what matters is the investigation, the play of the essayists mind. I think, he writes, that the essays I most admire are those that pay the minutest or most sustained attention to one thing, one time or place, one strain or strand of existence. That Essayism both does and doesnt do this is part of its appeal. Late in the book, at the end of his discussion of Camera Lucida, Dillon turns from theory, in favor of the strange air of searching and susceptibility that infuses Barthes book. What hes referring to is openness, which is the essayists most essential tool. We write to get beneath the surface, we write to reveal ourselves. We do this especially when we do not know what we are revealing, when what the essay appears to be about becomes what it is really about, which is (or should be) a revelation to reader and writer alike. Revelation? Yes, I think the word is appropriate; the essay is a form that requires us to write and read out of our vulnerability, after all. Its that vulnerability, Dillon insists, in a line that also applies, I think, to his own book, that I value in Camera Lucida now and in most or even all of the essayists I admire no, love. David L. Ulin is the author of Sidewalking: Coming to Terms with Los Angeles. A 2015 Guggenheim Fellow, he is the former book editor and book critic of The Times :: Essayism: On Form, Feeling, and Nonfiction Brian Dillon New York Review Books: 176 pp., $15.95 Elizabeth Gilbert, author of the bestselling 2006 memoir Eat, Pray, Love, will release a novel next year, titled City of Girls. Publisher Riverhead announced that the book will be a unique love story set in the New York City theater world during the 1940s. The novel follows Vivian Morris, a young woman whos been expelled from Vassar College and goes to live in Manhattan with her aunt, a theater owner. Vivian encounters a series of bohemian actors and writers before becoming embroiled in a professional scandal. Sarah McGrath, the editor in chief of Riverhead, described the book as delicious. Advertisement I fully suspected that this would be a delectable, immersive book, McGrath said. What I didnt know was that it would make me laugh out loud and underline passage after passage with its wisdom, that it would make me nod knowingly and also ultimately cry, from emotional connection. Its a loving, knowing book. Its a novel about finding liberation, about being yourself and fighting for what you need in order to find real happiness. City of Girls is Gilberts eighth book. She has written nonfiction Eat, Pray, Love, which was adapted into a hit movie starring Julia Roberts in 2010, the biography The Last American Man and 2015s Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear and also fiction, including the 2014 novel The Signature of All Things, about a female botanist in the 19th century. Gilbert told People magazine that her new novel is the lightest, funniest thing Ive written out of the darkest grief. Gilberts partner, author Rayya Elias, died of cancer in January. This book is different from others that Ive written in that it came from a place of me wanting a tonic for my own life to make me happy, Gilbert said. And I offer it that way, as a tonic. I told my editor I want this book to go down like a gin fizz. On Facebook, Gilbert wrote that she wanted to create something that would bring myself and my readers joy, escape, and delight. Its a fun book, you guys. I think youll like it, she wrote. And after writing The Signature of All Things, I really, really, really wanted to create a female character who finally gets to have a lot of sex and on her own terms. Thank god. City of Girls is slated to be published June 5, 2019. Telsa Inc. Chairman and Chief Executive Elon Musk turned down a settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission before the SEC charged him with fraud Friday. Over the weekend, after Teslas stock plunged, Musk had a change of mind. But the SEC forced him to accept harsher terms than the original settlement. Thats according to New York Times columnist James Stewart, a well-sourced veteran business reporter best known for his book Den of Thieves, a deep dive into insider trading scandals on Wall Street. By Stewarts account, Musk told his corporate board by phone hed quit Tesla on the spot if directors insisted he take the original settlement, which required him to step aside as chairman. The board gave in, Stewart wrote, and Tesla lawyers withdrew the settlement. After the SEC leveled fraud charges against Musk on Friday, board members issued a statement saying they were fully confident in Elon, his integrity, and his leadership of the company. Teslas stock dropped 13.9% on Friday. Advertisement By Sunday, Musk had changed his mind. The original settlement would have required Musk to give up his chairmans post for two years; the deal Musk accepted boosts that to three. A $10-million fine was doubled to $20 million, and Tesla, as a company, was fined $20 million as well. Charles Elson, a finance professor and corporate governance specialist at the University of Delaware, told the Los Angeles Times that the reaction of the board when charges were announced really was troubling. Theyre not there to cheer him along, theyre there to protect the shareholders. The $20-million fine levied on the company is a signal that the company itself didnt properly oversee him, Elson said. The fraud charges stem from a Musk tweet Aug. 7 that said he had funding secured for a deal to take Tesla private at $420 a share. The SEC found no evidence to support that claim. Musk has 45 days from Sunday to resign as chairman. His replacement is to be an independent director, according to the settlement. The company must also add two new independent directors to the board. russ.mitchell@latimes.com Twitter: @russ1mitchell CBS News has added veteran TV news correspondent Bianna Golodryga as a fourth co-host to its morning program CBS This Morning. Golodrygas appointment was announced Wednesday as she joined Norah ODonnell, Gayle King and John Dickerson at the programs signature round glass table in the CBS Broadcast Center in Manhattan. The addition of Golodryga comes as CBS This Morning tries to regain its ratings momentum, which slowed after Charlie Rose left the program in November 2017 amid sexual harassment allegations. During the 2017-18 TV season, the show saw its first significant ratings decline since launching in 2012. While CBS This Morning runs behind ABCs Good Morning America and NBCs Today in the race for morning viewers, the program has won praise and a devoted following for offering more hard news than its competitors. Advertisement On Monday, CBS This Morning was the only network morning show to earn a News and Documentary Emmy Award for a report by ODonnell on sexual assault in the United States Air Force Academy. Golodryga, 40, has been a fill-in co-host on CBS This Morning since 2017 and a substitute anchor for the CBS Evening News. She has also been a contributor to CNN. Golodryga, who was born in the former Soviet Union and came to the U.S. when her political refugee parents emigrated in 1980, began her TV career as a producer for business news channel CNBC. She joined ABC News as a correspondent in 2007 and eventually served as a weekend co-host of Good Morning America. In 2014, she moved to Yahoo News to cover business and finance. In the last year Bianna has become a tremendous asset to all of us at CTM, said CBS This Morning executive producer Ryan Kadro in a statement. She is a superb broadcaster and journalist, and we look forward to having her at the table, or reporting in the field, every day. Golodryga worked in the financial services industry before going into television news. She is married to Peter Orszag, who served as director of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget during the Obama administration. stephen.battaglio@latimes.com Twitter: @SteveBattaglio General Motors Co.s self-driving car unit drew its second major investment in a matter of months, with Honda Motor Co. committing to spend $2.75 billion on backing the company and joining forces to bring autonomous vehicles to market. Hondas partnership will strengthen GMs position as one of the front-runners in the packed race to bring self-driving vehicles to market. The Japanese carmaker will make a $750-million equity investment in GM Cruise, plus spend $2 billion over 12 years on jointly developing and deploying autonomous vehicles, according to a statement. GM shares jumped after the investment from Honda, which will get a 5.7% stake in Cruise. The U.S. carmaker is a serious contender along with Waymo, Alphabet Inc.s Google autonomous-vehicle unit. Analysts at Morgan Stanley have pegged the potential enterprise value of Waymo widely perceived to be a leader in the space at $175 billion. Its a clear indicator that market consolidation has begun, said Grayson Brulte, co-founder of the autonomy consulting firm Brulte & Co., in an interview. The autonomous ecosystem is not a winner-takes-all scenario and we dont need 20 different autonomous systems. Partners will have to be on the same team with a common goal of deploying multiple types of autonomous vehicles based on consumer wants and needs. Advertisement GMs stock gain of as much as 5.3% Wednesday was the biggest intraday jump since May 31, the day Cruise got a $2.25-billion investment from SoftBank Vision Fund. The stock was up 2% to $33.97 as of 10:16 a.m. in New York. The deal with GM and Cruise is exclusive, Honda Chief Operating Officer Seiji Kuraishi said on a conference call with reporters. That raises questions about what happened to Hondas plans to work with Waymo. Although the two companies announced talks in late 2016, details of what the two would do together have been sparse. Kuraishi wouldnt discuss what happened to negotiations between Honda and Waymo during the call. Hondas investment values Cruise at $14.6 billion, up from $11.5 billion when SoftBank made its initial wager this year. Cruises worth has been on the rise since GM acquired the company about two years ago for $581 million in cash. Adding in bonuses and other payments to key employees, the deal was said to have cost the company closer to $1 billion. The new partnership has the potential to boost the global scale of GMs self-driving car technology and accelerate deployment of autonomous vehicles for Honda. The two automakers will develop a self-driving model that can be used in a variety of ways and will be deployed in a Cruise autonomous network. GM will manufacture the car, which will be an electric vehicle, GM President Dan Ammann said. The companies havent decided what kind of vehicle they will jointly build, he said. GM is still racing to deploy self-driving cars in a ride-hailing service in the U.S. next year, Ammann added. That car is based on GMs electric Chevrolet Bolt. Honda and GM already collaborate on battery technology and hydrogen fuel cells. The carmakers could even develop a self-driving car using hydrogen fuel cell technology, though no decision to do so has been made, said Mark Reuss, GMs executive vice president of product development. It would make sense, Reuss said, because a car with a set route in a limited area could have a hydrogen fueling station placed strategically in the area. Since fuel cells can refuel much faster than electric cars, it could be a good solution, he said. The pieces are all there, Reuss said. The refueling times would be much smaller. Earlier this year, GM met with investment bankers to look at long-term future options, such as issuing a tracking stock to list shares in Cruise or to eventually sell stock to the public. No decision was made at the time as GM was evaluating future options, people familiar with the matter said then. Welch writes for Bloomberg. UPDATES: 9:10 a.m.: This article was updated with more details about GM Cruise and comments from GM executive Mark Reuss and consultant Grayson Brulte. This article was published at 7:30 a.m. Negotiators from the U.S. focused much of their effort in reworking the North American Free Trade Agreement on provisions affecting auto manufacturing, touting the final deal with Canada and Mexico as a boon to domestic carmakers and their employees. Once approved, this will be a new dawn for the American auto industry and for the American autoworker, President Trump declared in announcing the accord on Monday. His chief trade negotiator, Robert Lighthizer, singled out the new auto rules, saying they are really going to bring back jobs to America. But as innovative and substantial as the changes are, experts said the amendments in the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement specifically a new minimum-wage requirement for some workers and an increase in the North American-produced content of vehicles necessary for tariff-free trade will provide only a limited increase in U.S. production and employment in the foreseeable future. About 952,000 U.S. workers are employed in manufacturing automobiles and parts. Most of the major automakers, both domestic and foreign, will be able to meet the higher rules of origin with a bit of mixing and shifting where they now assemble cars and trucks, engines, transmissions and other parts. Advertisement That will be harder to do for a few automakers like Volkswagen, which has put much of its investments in Mexico, where wages are much lower. And new rules that auto producers must source 70% of steel and aluminum from North America will force Hyundai to rethink its current practice of importing steel from South Korea. Even then, the new auto rules wont fully take effect until 2023, allowing companies to gradually make adjustments. When we look at that phase-in period, its something that doesnt necessarily scream out that were going to see a massive increase in U.S. assembly or parts, said Jeff Schuster, president of global vehicle forecasting at research firm LMC Automotive. On the surface, this isnt something thats going to cause a massive shift, in our opinion, to the U.S. I think it will be more of a subtle shift. Automakers and experts are poring over the details in the 1,168-page text, released after an eleventh-hour agreement with Canada late Sunday allowed the negotiations to meet a U.S.-imposed deadline. U.S. officials were in contact with automakers as they negotiated the deal and the early reaction from the industry has been positive. These changes are pretty clever and have the potential, on paper, of increasing the U.S. and Canadian share of North American production and somewhat decreasing Mexicos, said James Rubenstein, a Miami University professor of geography who has written extensively on where and how cars are made. But I think these are marginal changes that might affect individual carmakers rather than the industry as a whole. A U.S. auto and parts industry group that advised Lighthizer wrote to U.S. trade officials a few days ago that the negotiated auto rules were workable and manageable. The groups bigger concern recently was the possibility that Canada could be excluded from the deal after the U.S. and Mexico already had come to terms in late August. Trump had threatened to freeze out Canada, which would have been hugely disruptive because automakers have developed an extensive North America-wide supply chain since NAFTA took effect in 1994. In the new pact, 75% of a vehicles content would have to be produced in North America to qualify for tariff-free trade among the three countries. Thats an increase from NAFTAs 62.5% level. Another key provision in the proposed U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement adds a requirement that 40% to 45% of a vehicles content must be produced by workers making at least $16 an hour. That also would be phased in over several years. Analysts said most carmakers would not have trouble meeting that, although VW, Nissan and some others with large Mexican operations could find it more challenging. VW didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. A Nissan spokesman said Tuesday: Were encouraged that an agreement was reached, and hope that it appropriately considers the impact on our employees, suppliers and customers. The trade deal, which must be ratified by the legislatures of all three countries, also includes side agreements that would exempt up to 2.6 million passenger vehicle imports into the U.S. a year apiece from Mexico and Canada if the U.S. imposes a new 25% global auto tariff on national security grounds, as Trump administration officials are considering. Last year, the U.S. imported about 2.3 million vehicles from Mexico and about 1.8 million from Canada. Given the 2.6-million-unit quota for both countries on potential car tariffs, that could ultimately lead to more cars being produced in Canada because it has considerably more capacity under that limit. Canada is actually in a good position coming out of this, said Eric Miller, president of the consulting firm Rideau Potomac Strategy Group and advisor to the Canadian government on trade affairs. The North American-content percentage increases to 66% on Jan. 1, 2020, and then goes up in annual increments to 69% and 72% before hitting 75% in 2023. The provision recognizes the reality of today rather than fundamentally changing it, said Shannon K. ONeil, an expert on Latin America at the Council on Foreign Relations, a U.S. think tank. Nonetheless, she expects it will still affect decisions by automakers to stay within those requirements. As GM or other companies choose their suppliers, theyre going to have to be careful those percentages line up, ONeil said. For Mexico, the more difficult provision will be the new wage requirement for gaining tariff-free treatment that 40% of the content of cars and 45% of trucks are made by workers earning at least $16 an hour. Average hourly earnings for auto manufacturing workers in Mexico were $7.34 last year, compared with $28.98 in Canada and $29.08 in the U.S., according to the Center for Automotive Research. Mexican Economy Secretary Ildefonso Guajardo has said that 70% of his nations passenger car exports could make that wage threshold with some effort by 2020. The remaining vehicles will need more time to reach the new levels, he said. Every company is just going to do the mix and match to get to the 40% in different ways, Rubenstein said. In the meantime, even if they cant meet the content level for a tariff exemption, passenger cars entering the U.S. would just face the standard duty of 2.5%. Consequently, manufacturers with significant operations in Mexico might decide to simply pay the low U.S. tariff rather than adjust their supply chains. The calculation will be different on imports of pickup trucks and most sport utility and crossover vehicles, which the U.S. hits with a 25% tariff. There may be some vehicles that just arent sold in the U.S. market any more because its not cost-effective to either pay the tariff or re-source the supply chain, said Kristin Dziczek, a vice president at the Center for Automotive Research. The major effect of that provision probably will be a slowdown in efforts by China to send auto parts to Mexico. And over the long run, the more-stringent auto rules could make it harder for Chinese and other car and auto parts makers from entering or boosting their sales in North America. Schuster, of LMC Automotive, said automakers could alter their supply chains to meet the high-wage requirement. For example, using an engine assembled in the U.S. would be enough for a vehicle built in Mexico to hit that 40% to 45% level. Its going to be a complicated math problem for each of the manufacturers, he said. The additional requirements to track, calculate and document the value of the parts, research and other inputs will almost certainly make things more cumbersome and costly for auto and auto parts firms some of which could be passed on to consumers. The whole thing is exponentially increased in terms of bureaucratic paperwork, Rubenstein said. Thats where the costs are going up, not on the production side, on the bureaucratic side to monitor this stuff, from the carmakers, part suppliers and the government. Special correspondent Yuri Nagano contributed to this report. jim.puzzanghera@latimes.com Twitter: @JimPuzzanghera don.lee@latimes.com Only a few months into office, President Trump had delivered on a number of promises to the oil and natural gas industry, such as reviving the Dakota Access and Keystone XL pipelines while trying to rewrite a number of environmental regulations. The entire time, Big Oil cheered the administration on. But more privately, many of those same multinational energy companies were worried about Trump keeping another one of his campaign promises: to rip up the North American Free Trade Agreement, the trilateral trade pact that underpins the work of major oil firms across the continent. There was genuine concern, said Joshua Zive, an energy lobbyist at the law and lobbying firm Bracewell. Advertisement Now, with a new agreement hammered out among the United States, Mexico and Canada, the sector is breathing a sigh of relief. Count the oil and gas industry among the winners of the new NAFTA or, as Trump is rebranding it, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA. The oil business persuaded the White House to keep a number of features of the old NAFTA deal in the new agreement, including provisions that help protect U.S. oil companies investments abroad and allow for tax-free transport of raw and refined products across borders. Were mostly happy that its been preserved, that many of the provisions in the original NAFTA that had supported the integrated North American energy markets are still in place, said Aaron Padilla, senior advisor for international policy at the American Petroleum Institute, the nations biggest oil and gas lobbying group. Among their biggest concerns was the preservation of a system of resolving international trade disputes called investor-state dispute settlement, or ISDS. Under that dispute settlement system, multinationals can sue the governments of nations in which they work when those states issue new regulations. The system has attracted critics on the left for derailing anti-pollution efforts and on the right for eroding U.S. sovereignty. Trumps trade negotiators looked at the legal system with skepticism, too. The final deal does limit ISDS, but with a few key exceptions. Oil and gas is one of only five economic sectors, including telecommunications and transportation, to keep ISDS in the crucial Mexican market. The oil lobby regards that carve-out as a key victory given the investment that multinationals have made there since Mexico opened its oil and gas fields to foreign drilling starting in 2013. Foreign oil companies were booted from Mexico 75 years before then. Now BP, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Shell and Total have all won leases there that could have been jeopardized had Trump torn up NAFTA. Keeping that arbitration system intact in Mexico was a higher priority than doing so in Canada, Padilla said. Environmental critics, never big fans of the original NAFTA for including ISDS, were quick to criticize the new agreement as more of the same and to note that the deal makes no mention of climate change, according to Charlie Cray, a political and business strategist for Greenpeace USA. While Cray said the deal includes improvements to ISDS, he added: Any provisions that give big polluters a way to hold governments over a barrel are unacceptable. In another victory, USMCA, like NAFTA before it, would prohibit tariffs on raw and refined oil and gas products, such as gasoline sold by U.S. refiners in Mexico. The deal would also reduce tariffs on a special thinner that helps heavy Canadian crude from Alberta and Saskatchewan flow more easily through pipelines to refineries in the United States. For the last two years, as a potential NAFTA renegotiation loomed, the American Petroleum Institute and other oil-sector trade groups pressed their case with the White House, the U.S. trade representative and Congress to keep key parts of the pact. By September of last year, the oil lobby became more publicly vocal about its concerns with ending NAFTA. If the negotiations are not handled appropriately, API then-President and Chief Executive Jack Gerard told reporters at the time, I think all of us, including those of us in the oil and gas industry, are going to have to look long and hard at the situation. GOP leaders in Congress took up those concerns as well. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-Texas) made clear to the White House that eroding investor protections abroad may lose the new agreement the support of some congressional Republicans. The new trade pact is not a done deal yet. The Senate still needs to approve the renegotiated pact before it takes effect. At least for now, the oil industry just appreciates that tense trilateral talks are over. The energy industry in North America was desperate for stability, Zive said. It cant be stated how important it is to move out of the contentious stage of negotiations. Grandoni writes for the Washington Post. Few companies, even among rare luxury brands, actively spurn promoting their products, but heres one: the maker of Pappy Van Winkle. The scarce and pricey bourbon, made in Frankfort, Ky., by Sazerac Co.s Buffalo Trace Distillery, let wholesalers know this week how many bottles they could expect to receive to distribute to select retailers this fall. The spirit, which typically sells in the hundreds of dollars for the current year and as much as the thousands for vintage bottles, is so scarce some liquor stores sell it via a lottery system. The bourbon craze sweeping the United States for more than a decade hit a high point last year when Kentucky distillers, who make 95% of the worlds supply, filled nearly 1.9 million barrels and broke 50 years of production records, according to the Kentucky Distillers Assn. How many Pappy bottles will be released, and where will they go? Well, thats a secret, although its been said the distillery rolls out around 84,000 bottles each year. We really dont share details as far as the number of bottles released or the allocations, Buffalo Trace spokesperson Amy Preske said in an email. Advertisement So what kinds of information does the distillerys media department discuss with the media? We generally do not actively seek publicity for the Van Winkle line, she wrote. And in general do not give interviews regarding it. John OBrien, the wine specialist at Tower Beer, Wine & Spirits in Atlanta, said the Pappy bourbon usually arrives in November but the stores dont know how many bottles they will get or what they will cost. Last year we got 20 bottles, I think, said OBrien, who lamented that he cant even reserve bottles for top customers, who must go through the lottery system like everyone else. Its more tragedy than comedy their hopes are dashed. We make more enemies than friends. Americans are given to fads Ill be glad when this is over. Is the new Apple Watch ready for Grandma? The Series 4 Apple Watch now in stores pitches itself as a Food and Drug Administration-cleared proactive health monitor and a guardian that will call help if you take a hard fall. Its screen is 30% larger. You wont see Apple say senior citizen in ads yet suddenly, grandmothers and abuelas, not to mention opas, are thinking about getting one. Adult children looking to keep parents safe are curious too. So I sought help in reviewing the new Watch from a gang of tech-savvy seniors. Seven members of the Computer Club of Rossmoor, a 55-plus community in Northern California, helped me set up, poke and prod the new model. No seniors were harmed in testing the fall-detection tech. Just when you think Im critical, older adults have even less tolerance for tech that isnt clear, reliable and affordable. There wasnt a technophobe among my helpers. After our tests, one of them a satisfied Apple Watch owner decided shed definitely upgrade. None of the others was sold. Advertisement When the Watch debuted in 2015, most seniors couldnt see the point. As of earlier this year, only 4% of Americans over 65 had bought any kind of smartwatch, according to Forrester Research. But with this fourth version, my gang was curious. Its one of those iPhones thats been shrunk to wrist size by Dick Tracy, says Art Salzfass, 83. Good on Apple for recognizing tech has a lot to offer the older adults often overlooked by Silicon Valley. That were even talking about FDA clearance shows how the Apple Watch has matured into a truly personal kind of gadget. This is the first version that feels speedy and connected enough to think of as a stand-alone device. What I learned from my elders is that the Apple Watch has lots to offer seniors not deterred by a $400 starting price. Its pretty good at encouraging you to exercise. It can gather data about your heart. And youre less likely to miss calls when your phone is on your wrist (yes, like Dick Tracy). Just dont let the hype about the new Watchs capabilities get ahead of its reality. Its heavier than some traditional watches and one more thing youll have to charge daily. Some of those new health functions have yet to prove how much theyll help. And as a substitute for your phone, it still has a pretty small screen and even tinier buttons. Buzz about the Watchs new health capabilities was the biggest draw for my seniors. But studying the fine print splashed a little cold water on their expectations. Lets start with that fall detector, a competitor to the Life Alert Ive fallen and I cant get up wearable. With the new Apple Watch, a hard fall is supposed to activate a message on its screen asking if you need help. If you dont respond, it will place an SOS call from your wrist. That is a really neat feature at our age, instead of a necklace, says John Helmus, 76. Trust but verify, right? I didnt ask any of my seniors to take a plunge. But in the interest of science, Ive tried jumping off ledges and throwing myself onto furniture. The thing never went off. (The feature is on by default only for people older than 65, but I turned mine on.) Its possible, even likely, that the Watch could tell I was faking. Whats important is actual falls, not stunts. Apple says it studied the falls of 2,500 people of varying ages. Yet the company hasnt said how often it catches real falls or sets off false alarms. This isnt like claiming the best camera ever on a smartphone if Apple wants us to think of its products as life aids, it ought to show us the data. Even better: peer-reviewed studies. Apples disclaimer says: Apple Watch cannot detect all falls. The more physically active you are, the more likely you are to trigger Fall Detection due to high impact activity that can appear to be a fall. Any additional protection is welcome. But based on Apples careful language, its best to think of the Watch as a supplement to, not a replacement for, other protections. We probably need to wait another generation, which is true of all tech, says Jane Salzfass, 73. The Apple Watch has always measured pulse, and Series 4 adds the FDA-cleared electrocardiogram a breakthrough for consumer tech. Hold your finger on the round button on the side of the Watch and it will read your hearts electrical signals in about 30 seconds. But that app wont arrive until later this year, so I couldnt compare it to a hospital-grade monitor. Apple received FDA clearance for the EKG app as well as the ability to detect irregular heart rhythms. But clearance isnt the same as approval. Apple had to prove safety and performance through clinical validation, but approval requires a lot more testing. (A summary of Apples research released by the FDA shows it claims to detect an atrial fibrillation 99% of the time.) But the FDA lists some important caveats about these functions in its clearance letters to Apple. It says the irregular rhythm detector isnt for people whove been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. And both the EKG and heart rhythm function are not intended to replace traditional methods of diagnosis or treatment. Some cardiologists worry that people taking Watch EKGs could result in a flood of unnecessary office visits by healthy people. The heart sensors can let people with heart conditions or anxiety know when they might need to take it easy. Margery Widroe, 80, whos been using a Series 3 Apple Watch for a few months, recounted to our group a recent incident when she was at the grocery store and her Watch alerted her to a high heart rate. She took it as a valuable cue to go home and take her medication. It could be a major help in your life, she says. While the Watch will continue to grow as a medical device, it may be more useful now to think of it as a wellness aid. It offers a three-part view of your daily activity, displayed in rings: your overall activity level, how much time youve raised your heart rate in exercise and how often you stand rather than sit. In my life, this holistic view has been more useful than counting steps like other trackers. My crews other interest was the ability of the Apple Watch to replace or at least supplement a phone. Its not that seniors dont love their iPhones. But unlike younger screen addicts, they may not be accustomed to carrying phones everywhere. For them, having the phone strapped to your wrist holds special appeal. The good thing is you cant lose it, says Sandra Lew, 75. You dont have to pay $100 extra (plus $10 per month) for the cellular-model Apple Watch to place and receive calls. When youre within range (sufficient inside most homes), the Watch uses a local wireless connection to your iPhone. The independent cellular connection, first added to last years model, is helpful if you want to leave your phone behind entirely like when you go for a walk and still receive calls and texts on your main number. Just know that not all carriers support it (such as Xfinity Mobile), and reception on the redesigned Watch can be flaky. Getting to calls and other functions is a different challenge. The Series 4 Watch has that larger screen area, but it is still just 1.6 inches and unforgiving to unsteady fingers. I even find my iPhone screen too small, says Jane Salzfass. Inbound calls are easy enough: Press the green phone button that pops up when your watch rings and gently taps your wrist. But when I asked testers to try to make a call from the Watch, it was an adventure fishing out the right buttons. Youre going to have to know what these icons mean, says Rhona Lishinky, 67. You can speak commands raise your wrist and say, Call Geoffrey and have Siri attempt to help. That works faster on the Series 4 than past models, but the voice assistants answers are still pretty bumbling. Other useful functions are on physical buttons, if you know their secret code: Double-tap the side button to activate Apple Pay, or press and hold the Digital Crown to summon Siri. Best of all, the Apple Watch is customizable. You can increase the size of type and choose from a variety of watch faces. My recommendation: Take the time when you first get a Watch to set up its face and to tame excess alerts, which by default bring all the dings and boops from your phone onto your wrist. Those steps will make it less likely to end up as a hand-me-down for the grandkids. Fowler writes for the Washington Post. In the 14th century, if you had donned a striped shirt and walked the lanes of a medieval French town, chances are you might have been assaulted or even put to death. Stripes, in those days, were pretty much considered the fashion of the devil the sort of motif associated with prostitutes and Catholic cults. Its hard to know what violent acts those Frenchmen might have resorted to if you had sported a brocade pattern featuring images of hand axes or a chintz design bearing daggers. After all, what kind of outcast would show up in public in an ensemble covered in knives? It is that very question that Lari Pittman imagines in a series of new paintings at Hollywoods Regen Projects. Portraits of Textiles & Portraits of Humans pairs a large canvas inspired by textile design (a long-running theme in his work), with a smaller portrait of a figure visually linked with that design. Advertisement Portrait of a Human (Pathos, Ethos, Logos, Kairos #7) by Lari Pittman. (Brian Forrest) I wanted to create a fictive and conjectural relationship through the lens of the decorative arts of what humans might look like paired with a textile and ask the viewer to create a relationship between the two, Pittman says. What culture would want to produce a textile with ominous axes on them? Over four decades, Pittman has created deeply layered paintings, often in buoyant color palettes and inspired by the applied arts. In these, he has touched on the wide range of human emotion, such as mortality, power and the vagaries of sex and desire, namely, the homoerotic kind. Plus, there have been his ruminations on trauma, illness and death. During his life Pittman is 67 he and his paintings have borne witness to the ravages of the AIDS epidemic and his own near-death experience: In 1985, the Los Angeles artist survived being shot in the stomach during a home invasion. While his subjects can be dark, Pittman is anything but commenting with dark humor that the shooting made him an even stronger atheist. Portrait of a Textile (Brocade), 2018, by Lari Pittman, which is connected to Portrait of a Human (Pathos, Ethos, Logos, Kairos #7), shown above. (Brian Forrest) I want the viewer to be a little more conflicted in the relationship between the abject and the sublime. Lari Pittman Pittman, the son of a U.S. father and a Colombian mother (he is is fluent in Spanish), has since the 1980s been an important face of L.A. art. His work resides in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art, the Art Institute of Chicago and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Currently he is at work on a career retrospective that will make its debut at the Hammer Museum next fall. The artist has made headlines for other reasons too: In February, he publicly resigned from the board of trustees of the Museum of Contemporary Art Los Angeles (where his work is also held), telling The Times Deborah Vankin that the museum had a vision problem. In this lightly edited conversation, he discusses how his love of textiles continues to inspire his work, what he finds compelling about telenovelas and, for his former colleagues at MOCA, he offers a little advice. How do you create these invented textiles? What sources do you use for research? I recoil against the word research. I think its a term thats become a retail term within the art world. But I have always looked at textiles. I study the textile work of Sonia Delaunay, who I think was much more important than her husband [Robert Delaunay], who got the bigger page in art history. There is Natalia Goncharova, who I think responded to the Russian Revolution not only with her beautiful paintings, but through costume design, theater design and folkloric impulses. I also love that period of textile design called Festival of Britain, after World War II. It was this incredible moment when all types of designers created a kind of positivity after the trauma of World War II. Plus, [my husband, artist] Roy [Dowell] and I have a really large collection of Mexican textiles. Those are always a reference point. I love that strange moment when folklorism and Modernism come together in a weird combination. Portrait of a Textile (Cotton Eyelet with Embroidery), 2018, by Lari Pittman. The painter makes all of his patterns with paint, spraypaint and hand-cut stencils. (Brian Forrest) Color certainly seems to play an important role in your work. I think of Diana Vreelands amazing quote that pink is the navy blue of India. It says so much about what color is valued over another. When I was a young person working in the design world, the saying was, Where there is taupe, there is hope. I reverse that and I say, Where there is taupe, there is no hope. Color for me is also political. Im always very interested when you read in the newspaper that there is an uproar in a neighborhood because someone has painted their house purple. Almost every year, an article surfaces about someone painting their house purple. Color is very powerful. Your paintings often render violence or objects of violence in beautiful ways. Why make it more sublime than abject? Although Im an atheist, I look at the history of Western European religious painting and I ask, What do they do really well? And I think its that they are able to exacerbate and make more palatable the violence of its own history and iconography by aestheticizing it and not making it abject. Aestheticized violence is actually more disturbing. Quentin Tarantino might do it. Certainly Pedro Almodovar does it. [Italian director Luchino] Visconti did it. Its interesting how Catholicism was very, very deft at organizing representations of violence while wearing the garments of the sublime. Lari Pittmans new series at Regen Projects pairs an imagined portrait of a person with a textile that individual might use. (Brian Forrest) What about desire? In the era of the #MeToo movement and the Brett Kavanaugh hearings, the news has made sex feel really abject. This may be more personal: I grew up my entire life with the cultural response to homosexuality as abject. Why would I want to incorporate that into my work? Why would I embrace that? As a young artist I made a really clear decision that that was a line drawn in the sand. The flirting with the representation of the abject was the privilege of straight people. If Im going to make art about it, how do I fix it up? How do I create more of a discussion of the bittersweet? Thats the register I love: The bittersweet it sets up this simultaneity of contradictory feelings. If you squarely represent the abject, the expected response to it, its so specific. I want the viewer to be a little more conflicted in the relationship between the abject and the sublime. If I am a devotee of any altar, Im a devotee of Pedro Almodovar. He sets up that bittersweet aspect of human nature. I study him very closely. I also find that Im a bit obsessed with the telenovelas coming out of Spain on Netflix. Which telenovelas? Ive been watching Velvet, which takes place in Franco-era Madrid. Its centered around this fashion house called Velvet and the making of bows. Theres another one I saw that came out of Colombia that has to do with the history of slavery in Colombia that takes place in the [early 19th century] called La esclava blanca [The White Slave]. At the very core are these cheesy love stories and it always centers on love and class struggle. There is always this point where the mother of the house yells to the lower-class protagonist, You have ruined our familys name. Largate de aqui! [Get away from here!] But going back to the bittersweet, I look for it. And Ive consistently found it in Almodovar and in these telenovelas, which set up a protocol for talking about it. In his work, painter Lari Pittman says he likes to explore the bittersweet. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) Whats it been like to survey your lifes work in preparation for next years Hammer retrospective? Its shocking in that its 40 years worth of work! Its a thrilling exercise to forensically reconstruct a body of work. But it doesnt come without its anxieties when you are going backwards. Ive always been proud of my work. That doesnt mean Im not hyper-critical of it. Im suspicious of artists who are not hard on their work. When Lindsay Lohan says she doesnt regret anything in her life, Im, like, Id like to be Lindsay Lohan. I would say that Im very aware that the most treacherous unraveling of artists tends to be in the mid- and advanced career. Ive always been very watchful of that. Ive done very well in the art world and Im grateful for it. At the same time Im not interested in redundancy in my work. After every body of work, I actually put up Post-it notes of things I cant do at least for a while. For example, I did a show in Berlin two years ago that was all grisaille almost no color or very little color except red, black and white. And Id done a show called Nuevos Caprichos at Barbara Gladstone and it centered around the psychologically and physically traumatized body, so I said, Lets move away from that. Those are some of the things that I wrote down. Instead, I thought Id concentrate on a strange malevolent jouissance. MOCA recently named MoMAs Klaus Biesenbach as director. What advice can you offer him and the board moving forward? I have two voices as a way of answering. My queen-y voice would say, I wish them well. My more serious voice says that the reason why so many of us remain so agitated and grouchy about MOCA is because we love it. We have expectations for it and because of it. My advice: Make artists your most important constituency. Artists are some of the most educated and refined Americans. Why wouldnt you want them as your No. 1 constituency at the Museum of Contemporary Art? What audience would you say MOCA is aiming for now? The constituency is 90210. An installation view of Lari Pittmans Portraits of Textiles & Portraits of Humans at Regen Projects. (Brian Forrest) Lari Pittman: Portraits of Textile & Portraits of Humans Where: Regen Projects, 6750 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood When: Through Oct. 25 Info: regenprojects.com ALSO Want to see Lari Pittman paintings without crowds and blocked views? Go to this box in Culver City When More Really Is More: Lari Pittmans mid-career retrospective at LACMA Mark Grotjahn declines a MOCA honor, and an art gala turns into a deeper discussion about inclusivity After months of turmoil, Museum of Contemporary Art gets a new director with ties to New Yorks famed MoMA On a recent Wednesday afternoon, Drew Cameron leads a paper-making workshop inside Cypress College Art Gallery. He shows how rags are broken down to pulp via a Hollander beater and how that substance is transformed with a mold and deckle. The finished product: blank sheets in soft hues like khaki and light blue. If it weren't for piles of clothing waiting to be cut on tables throughout the gallery, you might never know that the source materials are military uniforms. Cameron was born on a military base and, in 2000, at the age of 18, he enlisted in the Army. Three years later, he was deployed to Iraq. Upon his return, he tried to make sense of his experiences. "I was pretty upset with what I had been a part of, so I tried to distance myself from it," he says. Cameron moved to Vermont, where he didn't know anyone. He began working on art and paper-making became a way for him to explore the complexities of war. Artist Drew Cameron and gallerist Janet Owen Driggs stand inside "A Different 1%" exhibition at Cypress College. Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times For more than a decade, Cameron, now based in Iowa City, Iowa, has toured the country with his ongoing project, Combat Paper. Part conceptual art, part craft tutorial, Combat Paper radically re-imagines military uniforms and Cameron has taken the project to schools, museums and veterans centers. The Cypress College demo was part of the exhibition "A Different 1%," which opened Sept. 26 and runs through Nov. 14. The show brings together artists who are veterans and whose work speaks to their experiences in the military. We as the 99% have a responsibility to understand that, since 1941 if you include the Cold War America has been engaged in war every year at enormous expense, financially, but also in human terms, says Janet Owen Driggs, an art history professor at Cypress College, who is also the director of the gallery and the show's curator. A quote on a gallery wall cites a 2013 New York Times article stating that less than half a percent of the U.S. population has engaged in military service. That's an important statistic to remember at the community college. Cypress College, which primarily serves north Orange County communities, has a student body of 15,500 students and an estimated 600 or so of them are veterans. According to Juan Carlos Garcia, veterans counselor and coordinator at the schools' Veterans Resource Center, that's about average for local schools. Artist Drew Cameron leads a "Combat Paper" workshop based on his interaction with veterans. Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times Drew Cameron's work, "Combat Paper," is dedicated to paper-making with materials from military fabrics, specifically uniforms. Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times Veterans transitioning into civilian life may face hurdles that other students won't. "I think one of the biggest challenges that veterans face is loss of identity, the loss of structure that the military provides," Garcia, himself a veteran who served in the Philippines during Operation Enduring Freedom, says. But he also points out that there are stereotypes about today's veterans, like that "all vets have PTSD." "That's completely wrong," he says. Challenging the common perceptions of veterans is part of the exhibition. "I think that what we tend to do is view the veteran as somebody who is broken and needs help or, conversely, as someone who is heroic," says Driggs. "A Different 1%" looks toward the diverse realities of veterans' lives. Posters made by members of networks like Iraq Veterans Against the War show activism that came out of military service. Meanwhile, an installation from photographer Amber Hoy provides a slice-of-life look into one woman's experience. Artist Drew Cameron leads a workshop, "Combat Paper," based on his work with veterans. Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times Exhibition of artwork by military veterans like artist Drew Cameron is exhibiting at Cypress College. Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times Artist Mark Pinto prompts viewers to question war. From 1982 through 2002, he was a Marine. He joined, he says, to become a pilot. He also ended up going to the Gulf War. For the show, he contributed "Weapons of Mass Delusion," where weapons appear in the shape of mandalas with messages written on them. "I want people to walk away and say, before we go to war again, we should consider the costs of war, the extended costs of war," says Pinto. For the students, the works take on varied meanings. "I'm not very educated on [war] because I guess I have a disdain toward it," says Gianna "Gigi" Modaffari, who attended the workshop as part of a print-making class. The 19-year-old first-year student from Buena Park noticed works in the show that call out sexual assault in the military. "I know it happens, but seeing the sheer number of people who experience it is shameful, sad," she says, "but it's good to be aware about it and try to do what you can to stop it." Gallerist Janet Owen Driggs curated the gallery to showcase artists like Drew Cameron, Thomas Dang, Amber Hoy and Ash Kyrie. Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times Exhibition of artworks by military veterans at Cypress College. Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times Jeremiyah White, a 20-year-old, third-year student from Anaheim, visited the gallery as part of a student government class. He's planning on entering the Marines soon, so the artworks took on a different significance. "It kind of made me a little hesitant, but at the same time, this is something that I want to do," he says by phone of his decision to enlist. "I think that America has the opportunity of being better than what it is and if I can fight for America to stay on track to becoming better, then I don't mind doing that." As for the paper-making workshop, Cameron says there are multiple ways to view Combat Paper. The communal experience, though, is a significant act in moving forward as a society. "It's a call for people to write a different future. It's a blank slate waiting to be activated in a sense," he says. And it's a project thats open to all, whether or not they've ever served in the military. "I want everyone to feel as though they are invested because, in fact, all of us are," says Cameron. A Different 1% Where: Cypress College, 9200 Valley View Street, Cypress. The drummer of acclaimed Icelandic rock band Sigur Ros has left the group after rape allegations were made against him. Orri Pall Dyrason said on the groups Facebook page that he has decided to leave the band in light of the scale of this matter. The allegations made by a woman in Los Angeles involve an alleged rape in 2013 and surfaced in recent days in an Instagram post that has since been deleted. The drummer has not been charged with any crime. The band said on its Facebook page that it has accepted Dyrasons resignation to allow him to deal with this privately. Advertisement The drummer says he does not want the serious allegations against him to influence the bands important and beautiful work. Some beer trends build slowly, starting as a good idea brewed by a few specialists before spreading locally, creeping into nationwide prominence and then total ubiquity, as hazy IPAs have done in recent years. Other trends arrive all at once, a dozen beers in the same new style springing from local brewers as if someone made a particularly persuasive argument at the last gathering of the beer illuminati. If youve checked the tap list at one of L.A.s better beer bars in the last few weeks, youve probably noticed the latest example of the latter kind of beer trend: brut IPAs. Brut IPAs take their name and their concept from Champagne, as they are dry and supremely carbonated. The best examples are bright and hoppy up front but finish short, like taking a deep whiff of a fresh-cut grapefruit and then a swig of Topochico. Julian Shrago, co-owner and brewmaster of Beachwood BBQ & Brewing in Long Beach and self-avowed Champagne fan, sees the style as an extension of the aggressively hopped West Coast IPA but with a Champagne-inspired twist. Brut IPAs are, Shrago says, extremely dry with a little alcoholic warmth, a lot of hop flavor and aroma, but not a lot of bitterness. Most brut IPAs use the amyloglucosidase enzyme to ferment sugars that wouldnt break down with yeast alone, which leaves them totally dry. This enzyme is fairly common in heavy beers, used to help prevent them from getting too sweet, but its addition to an average-strength IPA is new. Advertisement Credit for this style of beer goes to Kim Sturdavant, head brewer at San Francisco brewery Social Kitchen. Sturdavants idea has spread from his Bay Area home at breakneck speed. Shrago denies any illuminati-level collusion among local brewers, and he explains the overnight emergence of the brut IPA in L.A. with one simple fact: Brewers are excited about them. Evan Price, brewer and co-owner of Green Cheek Beer Co. in Orange, offers a similar explanation. Brewers tend to love dry, crisp beer, and I think that a good brut IPA hits those marks to perfection, Price says. Shrago says he first heard about them early this year from another brewer. Before his colleague had even finished the description, Shrago was in; he could see exactly where the style was headed and the ones he wanted to brew. Beachwoods latest version, Strange Brut, is exactly as Shrago describes. It has a punch of citrus rind and dank resin up front and a touch of booziness in the body, before disappearing completely in a swarm of tiny bubbles. Brut IPAs are also part of an ongoing industry-wide conversation about IPAs. Their crisp and fizzy backbone is a direct response to the jammy, sweet hazy IPAs that were born in New England and grew to a national craze. Hazy IPAs pitched a big tent, welcoming both longtime hopheads and drinkers who didnt like the assertive bitterness of traditional IPAs. Brut IPAs share that striking hoppiness and low bitterness, but its an open question whether anyone will stand in line for hours in the hot sun to buy a brut IPA, as people still do every week for hazies. Local breweries are making them in droves, so you dont have to look hard to find a brut IPA. San Leandros Drakes Brewing Co. is one of the styles staunchest advocates, distributing its Brightside Extra Brut statewide. Brightside is a great point of entry, perfectly emblematic of the style. Noted IPA specialist El Segundo Brewing Co. is also in the brut IPA game in a big way, most recently with a version called Seco Brut. Seco is, as the name implies, dry as a drought and almost too drinkable, the kind of bottle that seems to empty itself. Price plans to brew more brut IPAs at Green Cheek, but despite his personal enjoyment (Theyre super fun, he says), he isnt sure of their long-term future. As a brewer, you kind of never know whats going to hit and whats going to fade away, he says. In the short term, at least, there will be plenty more on shelves and in kegs around town. Shrago says that Beachwood plans to keep brewing brut IPAs and intends to package one by the end of the year. Redondo Beachs King Harbor Brewing Co. also confirmed that its brut IPA Dry Dock will be around for a while and will hit the canning line soon. food@latimes.com Under gray skies, a convoy of six tractor-trailers pulled up to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles on Wednesday morning, kicking off a protest to call attention to the plight of hundreds of thousands of legal immigrants some of them truck drivers who face deportation when their temporary protected status runs out in the coming months. Nearby, Cesar Rodriguez, a truck driver who has temporary permission to live and work in the U.S., rallied with a yellow sign with black lettering that read Full Protection Now. The 46-year-old from El Salvador stood with about 100 other protesters near a stage featuring a band playing cumbia music. Later that day, a group of 60 leaders in immigrant rights, labor and faith participated in a planned act of civil disobedience, sitting down and blocking the intersection of South Figueroa Street and West Harry Bridges Boulevard, near the port in Wilmington. As of 3 p.m., LAPD officers started making arrests. In all, 64 people were arrested and released, said LAPD Officer Mike Lopez. Rodriguez drives a truck that hauls containers to and from the docks of the Port of Los Angeles, carrying merchandise for Amazon, Walmart and Target. Advertisement If I lose my TPS, I lose my truckers license, Rodriguez said, referring to his temporary protected status in the U.S. I work hard. I have a clean record. I pay taxes. Right now, I have no solution to fix my status if TPS ends. Im scared because Ive lived in this country for so many years. Weve adapted to this country. We have U.S.-born children. The TPS program allows people from countries facing upheaval or natural disasters to work and live in the U.S. on a renewable temporary basis. Olimpia Blanco records video a convoy of tractor-trailers staging a protest at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times) This year, the Trump administration rescinded the program for some 262,000 Salvadorans many of them with U.S.-born children. Rodriguez and others like him now have until September 2019 to decide whether to return to the small Central American country, find another way to stay or hide and risk removal from the United States. Last year, the Department of Homeland Security also announced an end to temporary protections for Nicaraguans, Haitians and Sudanese. This year, DHS ended the program for 60,000 Hondurans. The American Civil Liberties Union sued the Trump administration, arguing that terminating TPS is unconstitutional and could have a major effect on hundreds of thousands of immigrant families. The administration of George W. Bush extended the special protections for Salvadorans in 2001, after two devastating earthquakes in El Salvador. But current administration officials say conditions in El Salvador have improved since then an assertion challenged by advocates who point to a State Department travel warning for U.S. citizens. The agencys website warns of the dangers of travel to El Salvador, noting that the country has one of the highest homicide levels in the world and crimes such as extortion, assault and robbery are common. Rodriguez has lived in the U.S. for more than 20 years, he said. He came to the U.S. illegally but was able to gain immigration relief under TPS after a disastrous earthquake in 2001. He didnt like living with such precarious immigration relief but said he has no other option to stay in the country permanently. His 18-year-old daughter, who was born in the U.S., would be able to sponsor him in a few years. But its a long process, and what would he do in between? At the rally, Rodriguez chanted Residency and Justice as a band playing cumbia music serenaded those inside the detention center. A couple of hours later, the caravan of protesters drove to the Port of L.A.s Wilmington Waterfront Park, where they rallied with port truck drivers and warehouse workers who are on their third day of a strike. They are protesting the classification of drivers as independent contractors and claim the logistics companies owe them back wages. Carlos Revelo, a truck driver with TPS from El Salvador who planned to rally at the port, said this was the first time he had protested for immigration reform. The 41-year-old said he never felt the need before. In years past, hes seen rallies on the nightly news, but he never felt compelled to participate. He never thought TPS would be canceled. Im protected, Revelo would tell himself. After 20 years in the U.S., he had deep roots in this country and felt apart from all that. He bought a Mediterranean two-story house in a newly planned community in Lancaster. His sons all U.S.-born citizens only know life here, Revelo said. I was too comfortable and secure. I had to come out of the shadows, he said. I never imagined Id do something like this. Times staff writer Alene Tchekmedyian contributed to this report. cindy.carcamo@latimes.com Follow Cindy Carcamo on Twitter @thecindycarcamo UPDATES: 10:35 p.m.: This article was updated with the number of arrests. 3:45 p.m.: This article was updated with details on a planned act of civil disobedience and arrests being made. This article was originally published at 1:40 p.m. Over the last two decades, Roman Catholic dioceses across California have paid out massive settlements to parishioners who say they were molested by priests; acknowledged institutional breakdowns that facilitated abuse; and wrestled with followers who said they had lost faith in church leaders. Now, after a Pennsylvania grand jury detailed rampant sexual abuse committed by Catholic clergy there, some dioceses have moved toward even greater transparency by releasing the names in some cases for the first time of priests accused of such crimes. San Diegos diocese updated its public list in mid-September. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the Diocese of Orange are reviewing their lists of credibly accused priests which were last updated in 2008 and 2016, respectively to see whether any names should be added. And bishops of the San Bernardino and San Jose dioceses say they plan to publish names in the coming weeks. The decision to disclose has been made across the U.S. by bishops in places like Youngstown, Ohio; Fort Wayne, Ind.; and Little Rock, Ark. following the Pennsylvania report that revealed a decades-long cover-up of child sex abuse involving more than 1,000 victims and hundreds of priests. Advertisement Attorneys general in at least eight states also have launched investigations into alleged clerical sexual misconduct, requesting or subpoenaing diocese records. California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerras office declined to say whether it had an examination underway. Increasing pressure on the church, a civil suit was filed Tuesday in Los Angeles County Superior Court on behalf of Tom Emens, who says he was abused decades ago by a Southern California priest. The suit does not seek monetary damages, but calls on 11 California dioceses all but Stocktons to release the names of every clergy member accused of sexual misconduct, as well as private records documenting abuse. The law firm handling the suit also released a lengthy report that lists 307 clerics associated with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles who have been accused of abuse. Attorneys say at least 36 of the priests are not included in the archdioceses official list. The California Catholic Conference responded to the lawsuit by noting that many of the allegations had been previously revealed and that churches had taken aggressive steps to improve reporting and prevent abuse. Victims of clergy molestation say that while further disclosures of priest misconduct are a positive step, they are largely symbolic. More needs to be done to address the churchs systemic, decades-long cloaking of abuse, they say. Its like a serial murderer giving the name of five of his 35 victims, said Joelle Casteix, an expert on clergy sex abuse who said she was assaulted by a choir teacher at the Catholic school Mater Dei High in Santa Ana in the 1980s. The details of her claim were contained in documents released in 2005 by the Diocese of Orange. Publishing the names of accused priests doesnt help survivors. It doesnt get predators off the streets, Casteix said. It doesnt invoke fear in the hearts of clerics who may still be molesting kids right now. Abuse survivors note that many of the named clergy members are dead or no longer live in California. In the San Diego Diocese, five of the eight priests recently added to its public list are deceased. Is it going to make the community or parish safer by putting out these names? said Thomas Plante, a psychology professor at Santa Clara University who treats church victims and abusers. I dont know if it does, frankly. But in the absence of a statewide investigation, say some who identify as clerical abuse survivors, the disclosures are a start. Jaime Romo is one of them. Now a minister who provides trauma services at Pilgrim United Church of Christ in Carlsbad, Romo says he was molested by an L.A. pastor when he was 14. Victims often feel a double betrayal, he said first by their abuser, and then by the church when it hides the abuse. So releasing priests names can alleviate some pain wrought by decades of clerical negligence, Romo said. Likewise, the disclosures may provide solace to those who may have never told anyone about their abuse, said Carlos Perez-Carrillo, a former altar boy who says he was molested by a priest at St. Bernard High School in Playa del Rey. There will be people out there that will see a perpetrators name and say, Now I feel fine coming forward because I can say what happened to me happened to other people, Perez-Carrillo said. Its validating. Because of the churchs once-pervasive practice of reassigning accused clerics rather than removing them from ministry completely, it is difficult if not impossible to know the full extent of the national web of abuse, said Massimo Faggioli, a professor of historical theology at Villanova University in Pennsylvania. Even the 900-page Pennsylvania grand jury report paints a partial picture, Faggioli said, because some of those priests were sent to the West Coast, and we dont know what these dioceses in the West have on these priests. Given the churchs power structure local bishops have almost total control in their districts it is unlikely that national leadership will order a release of names across the U.S., Faggioli said. But its a good sign that the latest disclosures are happening at a faster clip than in 2002, when the Catholic Churchs sex abuse scandals were first exposed by the Boston Globe, he said. Even so, dioceses self-reporting has previously proved to be incomplete. In 2006, a Times analysis found that the Archdiocese of Los Angeles partially or completely omitted 11 known cases of clerical abuse from its Report to the People of God. This was after then-Archbishop Roger Mahony said the report provided the fullest possible disclosure of how the church responded to sex abuse allegations. And San Diegos list of accused priests from decades past may grow; administrators are still reviewing files, diocesan spokesman Kevin Eckery said. I would love to say that the process is a well-oiled machine, Eckery said. But one of the things we found in putting the list together is how complicated it is to review these records. Issues of partial transparency and disorganized investigations show why churches should turn over every known record of alleged abuse to the attorney general for independent review, victims advocates in California say. Every bishop needs to open their files and say, Here you go. Heres the evidence, Casteix said. In a statement to The Times, the L.A. Archdiocese said it stopped adding names to its People of God report after 2008 because parishes and schools were announcing instances of abuse as they were discovered. The report, church leaders said, is now being updated and the names of priests who have abused minors in the years since will be published when that process is complete. To Casteix, that is a halfhearted response to decades of trauma inflicted on the churchs most vulnerable parishioners. Were seeing this slow drip of names, more and more promises of transparency, she said. But the policies and patterns that enabled this abuse are still in place. laura.newberry@latimes.com | Twitter: @LauraMNewberry A Los Angeles City Council committee balked Tuesday at a proposed agreement between the Harbor Department and a warehouse operator that has been accused of labor violations, saying that the company first needs to reach a deal to prevent strikes. The decision now heads to the entire council, which will vote on whether to reject the plan and kick the decision back to the Board of Harbor Commissioners. It comes one day after warehouse workers and truck drivers launched their latest strike in front of warehouses serving the ports, protesting the classification of drivers as independent contractors. Labor activists, including the port division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, are urging the council not to accept an agreement unless it includes a no labor disruption provision to prevent future strikes, which they argue would prod the warehouse company and labor organizers to reach a deal addressing worker concerns. Councilman Joe Buscaino backed that idea, calling for the harbor commission to revisit the proposed agreement and include safeguards to prevent work stoppages. Advertisement Were not here to shut down anybody or take peoples jobs away, OK? Buscaino told warehouse workers and company officials who crowded into the meeting. We are here to prevent further labor disruption. Last month, the Board of Harbor Commissioners voted to approve a permit for California Transload Services LLC that would allow it to continue using roughly 85 acres of port property for warehouses and related operations in Wilmington where more than 700 people work. The agreement would reap more than $5.3 million in rent for the Harbor Department annually, according to port officials. California Transload Services is part of NFI Industries, which acquired the California Cartage group of trucking and warehousing companies last year. Cal Cartage has repeatedly faced complaints about labor and safety issues. City Atty. Mike Feuer sued three of its trucking companies, alleging they misclassified drivers as independent contractors to avoid paying minimum wage and employee benefits. In a report, the Harbor Department said that NFI seemed to be making a good faith effort to address concerns that had arisen under the former owner. NFI said that since it bought the companies, it had granted raises and invested more than $1 million in the Wilmington facility. At the Tuesday hearing, several workers spoke up in support of the company. It is unfair for the city to make us pay for offenses that predate our ownership, NFI co-owner Ike Brown said Tuesday. Labor activists countered that problems had continued under the new owner. The National Labor Relations Board recently issued a complaint against California Transload Services and NFI, alleging that they told an employee that he could not tell others about their right to take heat breaks and retaliated against him for his union activities. California Transload Services also got cited for safety issues earlier this year. Its the same violations, the same lawbreaking, said Celene Perez, co-executive director of the Warehouse Worker Resource Center, arguing that the only thing that had changed at the facility was the name. At the Tuesday hearing, several workers complained about unsafe conditions and other problems. NFI is contesting the safety citations against California Transload Services and said that the employee named in the NLRB complaint was terminated for disruptive behavior, not union activity. In a recent statement, it called the latest strike unfortunate, arguing that the Teamsters are trying to force union representation on warehouse workers who have repeatedly rejected it. The Teamsters have countered in legal filings that Cal Cartage threatened workers that their jobs would be lost if they voted for the union, tainting the election process. Fred Potter, vice president of the Teamsters port division, complained at the Tuesday hearing that they had been unable to hold an honest election. Cal Cartage has disputed such assertions. NFI said it was disappointed by the Tuesday decision. It is unfortunate that this item is being used as a platform to advance the agendas of some very specific special interests, namely the Teamsters, instead of following the will of the people directly affected, the company said in a written statement. Labor activists celebrated the decision on the steps of City Hall alongside Buscaino. Potter said that reaching an agreement to prevent work stoppages would not force the company to unionize and could take many different forms. However, Potter said he hoped that such a deal would ensure that workers could legally discuss and act to join a union if they chose, without fear of retaliation. The company turns a blind eye to the workers, Potter said, adding that this levels the playing field. Buscaino aides said the decision is expected to go to the entire City Council next week. emily.alpert@latimes.com Twitter: @AlpertReyes Earlier this year, Ventura County resident Tom Emens called a law firm that represents victims of clergy abuse and asked for help. Emens had recently met someone who was molested by the same priest at St. Anthony Claret in Anaheim in the 70s and 80s. The 50-year-old had grappled with his own trauma for decades, but the weight of another persons story sparked in Emens a new sense of purpose: to seek justice for what had been done to him and countless others. On Tuesday, Jeff Anderson & Associates of Minnesota filed a civil suit on behalf of Emens in Los Angeles County Superior Court. The suit calls for 11 California dioceses all but Stockton to release names of every clergy member accused of sexual misconduct, as well as private records documenting such abuse. When a reporter asked why he wasnt seeking monetary damages, Emens, now a marketing coordinator at California State University, Channel Islands, answered with swift conviction. Advertisement The truth, he said, is far more valuable than any other money could ever be. The law firm also released a lengthy report on Tuesday that lists 307 clerics associated with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles all of whom were already known predators who have been accused of abuse. The report shows that in at least three dozen cases, the accused priests were reassigned to faraway parishes instead of being removed from ministry completely. The firm said it was unable to confirm the whereabouts of nearly half of the accused clerics. This information came out in bits and pieces, making it seem like the problem isnt as bad as it actually is, said Mike Finnegan, a partner at Jeff Anderson & Associates. We wanted people to see how big this problem is and this is only in L.A. At least 36 of the priests named in the law firms report are not included in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles official list of accused clerics, known as the Report to the People of God. The archdiocese says it is reviewing the list last updated in 2008 to see whether any names should be added. The People of God report was first published in 2004, after more than 500 abuse survivors brought claims against hundreds of priests during a special legislative window. Those cases led the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to pay a $660-million settlement in 2007. In response to the suit, the archdiocese said that the report was based on information that was already made public; the 2007 settlement required the church to release priests confidential personnel files. The Archdiocese has acknowledged and taken responsibility for the failures and mistakes in the way abuse cases were handled in the past and instituted a strict zero tolerance policy to ensure that allegations of abuse would be reported to authorities, the L.A. Archdiocese said in a statement. Emens sweeping suit comes as a harsh spotlight is shining once again on decades of sexual abuse within the Roman Catholic Church and the systemic effort to hide it. Weeks after an August report in which a Pennsylvania grand jury detailed rampant sexual abuse committed by Catholic clergy, and amid political pressure, some California dioceses including those in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, San Jose and San Diego have decided to release the names of priests accused of such crimes. In its suit, Jeff Anderson & Associates contends that every California diocese should release such lists, as well as all documents related to alleged abuse. If the suit is successful, a judge will review those records and decide how to move forward with the information. At a news conference on Tuesday, Joelle Casteix, an expert on clergy sex abuse and a victim herself, said survivors like Tom Emens are often silenced. This suit could help change that, she said. For years he stood up screaming to the wind saying, No ones listening to me, Casteix said of Emens. Today, the whole world is listening. And the bishops need to listen. 10:45 a.m., October 3: This article was updated to clarify Tom Emens age. This post was originally posted at 5:30 p.m. October 2. laura.newberry@latimes.com | Twitter: @LauraMNewberry Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti joined business and labor leaders Wednesday to urge voters to reject Proposition 6, saying a repeal of the states new gas tax could force years-long delays for dozens of transportation projects across Southern California. The hike in gas taxes and vehicle licensing fees, approved last year by the Legislature and Gov. Jerry Brown, would raise an estimated $5.4 billion over a decade to repave streets, untangle freeway interchanges and build new transit lines in Los Angeles County. Reversing higher fees on gas and vehicle licensing could put funding at risk for hundreds of miles of repaving work on streets and freeways, as well as several major transit projects, including a planned train station serving Los Angeles International Airport, Garcetti said. Backers of the gas tax repeal say lower taxes and vehicle licensing fees would save a family of four about $779 a year. But paying to fix streets is far cheaper than shouldering the costs of tows, car repairs and time spent in traffic, Garcetti said. Advertisement Id rather pay a few pennies at a pump than pay lots of dollars at my mechanic, Garcetti said at a news conference in Westchester, near the site of the LAX rail station, which received $150 million in gas tax funding. He continued: If we see this repealed, we will pay make no mistake. Well pay in lives, well pay in dollars, well pay in broken axles, well pay in popped tires, well pay during earthquakes. An airport people mover will carry travelers from LAXs terminal area to a car rental facility, a transit hub and a Metro station planned at 96th Street and Aviation Boulevard. (Los Angeles Times) The $581-million station at Aviation Boulevard and 96th Street will connect riders from the Green Line and the Crenshaw Line, slated to open next year, to a smaller airport train that will run between LAXs terminals, a bus hub and a consolidated car-rental facility. The gas tax repeal could delay the projects slated 2023 opening date by three to five years, Garcetti said. Democrats, construction firms and organized labor have rallied to raise more than $30 million to defeat Proposition 6, according to campaign finance statements made public last week. Officials pointed to a scorecard released Wednesday by the American Society of Civil Engineers that gave less-than-stellar grades to the states infrastructure: a C- for transit, a C- for bridges and a D for roads. Thats D for dangerous, destructive, said Jerard Wright, policy manager at the Los Angeles County Business Federation. He said Proposition 6 would eliminate tends of thousands of jobs and drain our economy. About 16,000 members of the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building and Construction Trades Council have found work on 6,500 projects funded by the gas tax, from constructing rail lines to filling potholes, said council representative Ernesto Medrano. Proposition 6, he said, is a job killer. Republican critics and lawmakers who support Proposition 6 have said that California could make improvements to road and transit systems with revenue from previous gas taxes and vehicle licensing fees. Dont be fooled by a PR stunt by politicians, said Carl DeMaio, the chairman of a campaign committee supporting Proposition 6, in a prepared statement. We could fix all of our roads if we simply allocated 100 percent of gas tax revenues to roads, but the politicians will never do that because this has never been about fixing roads, but rather getting more of your money. Backers of the gas tax repeal said they will ask voters to approve a measure in 2020 that would raise money to fix roads without charging drivers more at the pump. The measure would also direct Californias new governor to stop construction of the $77-billion high-speed rail system. The measure would need more than 500,000 signatures to qualify for the 2020 ballot. laura.nelson@latimes.com Twitter: @laura_nelson UPDATES: 9:25 p.m. This article was updated with a comment from Carl DeMaio, the chairman of a campaign supporting Proposition 6. This article was originally published at 3:15 p.m. Settlement terms have been reached in a federal lawsuit filed against the Ventura County Sheriffs Office in May after deputies removed a Muslim womans head scarf while she was in custody. Ventura County and the Sheriffs Office reached a $75,000 settlement with Jennifer Hyatt, the Sheriffs Office announced Monday. The settlement also includes a new policy in the written manual for the Sheriffs Office that accommodates religious head coverings. The settlement, which is pending signatures from all parties, was reached in order to save taxpayers the expense of further litigation, including exposure to attorneys fees, according to the Sheriffs Office. The County and Sheriffs Office believe this settlement reflects a fair outcome for both sides and is a good result for the citizens of Ventura County, authorities said in a statement. Advertisement Hyatt, a 44-year-old registered nurse from Newbury Park, previously stated that a deputy snatched her hijab head covering and refused to give it back or provide her an alternate form of cover when she was detained for several hours on New Years Day in 2017. In the Islamic faith, some observant women follow an interpretation of the Koran that requires them to cover their heads and much of their bodies for the sake of modesty and dignity. When Hyatt protested that she could not be in the presence of men without her hijab because she is a practicing Muslim, a deputy replied, Not in here, youre not, according to the suit. I was spoken to like I was trash and deserved everything that was happening to me while in custody, Hyatt said in a statement issued in May by the Council on American-Islamic Relations. My hijab was yanked off my head in front of many men despite my continued requests to wear it. I felt naked and humiliated the entire duration of my custody. However, in the release announcing the settlement, the Sheriffs Office disputed Hyatts characterization of her treatment. Video and audio footage from the jails camera system show that her hijab was not violently yanked from her head and she was not treated poorly or intentionally shamed by deputies due to her religious beliefs, authorities said. The Sheriffs Office acknowledged that because the hijab was for religious purposes, Hyatt should have been offered an accommodation, such as an alternative form of head covering. Following Hyatts detention, and before she filed her lawsuit, the Sheriffs Office made paper hijabs available in the jail to improve existing policies and practices regarding religious accommodations, according to the agency. Marwa Rifahie, an attorney with CAIR in Los Angeles, said Hyatt was arrested after a dispute with her husband in Thousand Oaks. An off-duty Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy noticed the two arguing and separated them before calling local authorities, Rifahie said. But when Ventura County deputies arrived, they ignored Hyatts complaints of injuries and arrested her on suspicion of domestic battery, according to Rifahie. We are pleased that we hopefully have been able to come to a resolution that not only benefits our client, but would provide protection for other Muslims detained in Ventura County, Rifahie said in a statement. This policy change made in Ventura County joins others throughout Southern California municipalities that have adopted policies protecting the right to wear religious head coverings while in custody. brittny.mejia@latimes.com Twitter: @Brittny_Mejia Five months ago, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti unveiled a new website for reporting discrimination and harassment at City Hall, saying officials need to respond quickly and efficiently to such complaints. MyVoiceLA, the website, received a discrimination complaint against City Councilman Jose Huizar on June 20, according to the citys personnel department. But city officials allowed nearly three months to pass before informing Council President Herb Wesson, who then called for a special five-member committee to investigate. Now, an official has acknowledged that his department mishandled the complaint, saying Wesson should have been told much sooner. We regret what happened. We apologize that it happened. And were never going to let this happen again, said personnel department spokesman Bruce Whidden. Advertisement Staff has been trained and will be able to identify a complaint that could trigger the ordinance that governs discrimination complaints against city elected officials, he said. Under city law, the personnel department must inform the mayor or the council president when it receives a complaint of discrimination or sexual harassment against an elected L.A. official, and then a panel must be convened to examine the allegations. Whidden said the delay in notifying Wesson occurred because agency staffers did not initially recognize that the complaint targeted an elected official. It was a very broad complaint that made it difficult to identify a specific charge against a specific person, he said. In addition, Whidden told The Times on Tuesday that he erred last month when he said the Huizar complaint dealt with allegations of discrimination, harassment and retaliation. The letter from the personnel department to Wesson mentioned only discrimination, he said. Whidden declined to identify the accuser and would not say whether the personnel department had made contact with him or her. Huizar, for his part, issued a statement Tuesday emphasizing that the complaint is based solely on alleged discrimination. I take this matter seriously and deny discriminating against any current or former staff members, and I look forward to a full, transparent and expeditious resolution, he said. The departments changing stories and its delay in processing the complaint have marred the rollout of MyVoiceLA, one of several Garcetti initiatives aimed at addressing allegations of sexual harassment and discrimination at City Hall. Garcetti spoke out on social media last week in support of psychology professor Christine Blasey Ford, who has accused U.S. Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexual assault, saying that speaking up is an incredible act of bravery. Asked about the Huizar complaint, Garcetti said he had not been informed of the delay. Garcetti told The Times he considered the news disappointing and noted that the process for investigating allegations against elected officials is different than the one used for other city workers. But that should be no excuse for any complaint not being handled promptly, he said. I expect them to do better. Employers in California are required by law to address allegations of workplace harassment and discrimination in a prompt manner, experts say. If an employer fails to do so, additional workers can be exposed to continuing improper behavior, said Twila S. White, a Los Angeles-based attorney who handles discrimination cases. It creates further opportunity for there to be further harm, she said. Leslie F. Levy, an Oakland-based attorney who also specializes in discrimination and harassment cases, said an employers failure to respond promptly to a workplace complaint can also cause victims to conclude that managers have no problem with the wrongdoing. They will have every reason to believe the behavior is being condoned or nobody cares, she said. Over the last few weeks, the city personnel department has offered different explanations for its delay. Initially, Whidden said department staff failed to identify the Huizar complaint because the MyVoiceLA website was in testing mode and lacked a formal system for tracking complaints. He also said no work had been done on the complaint during the nearly three months that passed between the day it was filed and the day Wesson was informed of its existence. Several days later, in response to additional questions, Whidden said his previous explanation was incorrect and that each complaint received by MyVoiceLA, including the one targeting Huizar, was reviewed the week it was filed. Agency employees found the Huizar complaint one day after it was received, he said, and began processing it, reaching out to the accuser. Still, he said, the complaint should have been forwarded to Wesson much sooner. Department staff informed Wesson of the complaint on Sept. 13, and a day later Wesson gave instructions to form the special committee. The Special Committee on Investigative Oversight now must decide whether a complaint is serious enough to warrant the hiring of an independent investigator. Under the citys rules, the committees findings must be forwarded to the council for review and possible action. Wesson was notified of the complaint on the same day that Huizars wife, City Commissioner Richelle Huizar, announced plans to run for her husbands seat in 2020. Councilman Huizar, who represents neighborhoods from Boyle Heights to Eagle Rock, faces term limits that year. david.zahniser@latimes.com Twitter: @DavidZahniser Times staff writer Emily Alpert Reyes contributed to this report. When the Trump administration decided last year to dump net neutrality rules designed to treat all data equally, the states revolted. Thirty legislatures introduced bills to prohibit internet service providers from hindering access to certain sites and charging fees for faster speeds. Four states, including California, passed laws, and six governors issued executive orders declaring they would not do business with internet providers that violated net neutrality. People were upset across the country, said Ernesto Falcon, legislative counsel for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, which supports net neutrality. Advertisement The Trump administration decided to fight back Sunday and challenge Californias law, the broadest in the nation. It would restore Obama-era rules governing internet access, which barred blocking, throttling and paid prioritization and established a process for filing complaints. The broadband industry followed up with a suit of its own Wednesday to block Californias law. But the bigger legal fight is being waged before the U.S. District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals. Public interest groups, companies and 32 states, including California, have challenged the Federal Communications Commissions decision last year to end regulation of internet providers. A ruling is expected sometime next year. The Trump administrations lawsuit asks that Californias new law, which is supposed to take effect in January, be put on hold until the D.C. Circuit court rules. It is a smart ask, Falcon said. And I dont think it is a bad idea. If the D.C. appeals court decides the FCC acted arbitrarily and capriciously, net neutrality could return nationally. The court will also decide whether states can issue regulations of their own. The Justice Department and industry groups representing broadband and wireless companies contend that Californias new law violates the Constitution by usurping federal law. Under the Constitution, states do not regulate interstate commerce the federal government does, Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions said when the Justice Department announced its suit Sunday. Jonathan Spalter, president and CEO of USTelecom, an industry trade group, said Congress, not multiple states, should set the rules for the internet. The internet is an interstate service, and states are expressly preempted from regulating broadbands, Spalter said. Supporters of Californias law counter that the federal government has exited the business of regulating internet service providers. When there are no regulations, states may impose their own, they say. Under their police powers, states do have authority to adopt rules, even if related to interstate commerce, said Stanford Law professor Barbara van Schewick, who supports the California law. A 1978 law passed by Congress that deregulated the airline industry and prohibited states from passing their own regulations was upheld by the courts. But supporters of Californias law say the net neutrality case is different. At issue is an action of a federal agency, not a law passed by Congress. The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals has scheduled a hearing in February on the states challenge. What is happening in California is mostly about whether California is allowed to enforce its law before the D.C. Circuit rules, Van Schewick said. Three other states passed more limited net neutrality rules after the FCC revoked the federal regulations, and none of them has been sued. Californias law is substantially broader, though. The California net neutrality law is the first law that actually brings back all the net neutrality protections that the FCC voted to eliminate, Van Schewick said. Santa Clara University Law professor Catherine Sandoval, who also favors the California law, said the 10th Amendment of the Constitution gives states police powers to protect and promote the safety of their people. Almost every sector of California is dependent on an open internet, she said. She and others cited the case of a Santa Clara County fire protection district whose internet access was hindered in July while fighting the massive Mendocino Complex fire. The fire department said its data connection had been throttled down to 1/200 or less of previous speeds, even though the agency believed it had paid for an unlimited data plan. A Verizon Wireless representative told the department it had exceeded its data limit and suggested it pay more than twice as much for a better plan. The fire department said the throttling impeded its ability to respond to a crisis and provide essential emergency service. Its complaint was submitted as an addendum to the states challenge before the D.C. Circuit. But Verizon said the situation had nothing to do with net neutrality and blamed a customer support mistake. A spokesperson said Santa Clara had purchased a government contract plan for a high-speed wireless data allotment at a set monthly cost. Users under that plan get an unlimited amount of data but speeds are reduced when they exceed their allotment until the next billing cycle, she said. She said Verizon should have removed the speed restriction when the fire department called because the department is an emergency responder. Falcon, however, said the Santa Clara situation provided a very powerful argument for net neutrality. Without regulation of the practices of these companies, states may have a serious public safety issue. The companies will have a difficult fight to explain why an economic burden outweighs public safety, Falcon said. UC Berkeley Law School Dean Erwin Chemerinsky said some courts have found that federal agency actions cannot be overridden by states but generally preemption is about what Congress intended, not agencies. The federal government is arguing that the absence of a law preempts state law, and that is an unusual argument, he said. In its lawsuit Wednesday, the Broadband Assn., an industry group, said California was trying to nullify federal law in violation of the Constitution. Californias attempts to revive and indeed expand a repealed federal regulatory regime are plainly preempted, the lawsuit said. The industry said it would be impossible to comply with a patchwork of inconsistent regulations. maura.dolan@latimes.com Twitter: @mauradolan The Trump administration said Wednesday it is canceling a 63-year-old treaty with Iran and part of a Vienna Convention on diplomatic rights in its latest rejection of international bodies that can challenge U.S. sovereignty. The moves were more symbolic than substantive, and largely reflected Washingtons worsening relations with Tehran and with the Palestinian Authority. The State Department said it will withdraw from the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran, which affirmed friendly relations between the two nations, after a United Nations court ruled in Irans favor in a case that challenged newly imposed U.S. sanctions on Tehran. The court ordered Washington to ease some sanctions, saying they violated the treatys provisions. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo dismissed the ruling by the International Court of Justice, based in The Hague, as meritless and said the decision to scrub the little-known treaty was 39 years overdue, a reference to the 1979 Islamic revolution that led to the seizure of U.S. hostages and put an anti-American theocracy in power. Advertisement Pompeo said staying in the treaty was absolutely absurd since the two governments broke diplomatic relations in 1980. President Trumps national security advisor, John Bolton, said the administration also will withdraw from an amendment to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Under the 1961 accord, the same U.N. court had agreed to hear a challenge from the Palestinian government to Trumps controversial decision to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel to the disputed city of Jerusalem. We will not sit idly by as baseless, politicized claims are brought against us, Bolton said at the White House. He said Iran had made a mockery of the 1955 treaty by supporting militant organizations in the Mideast, producing ballistic missiles and other malign behavior. The treaty, which regulated commercial and consular rights, was one of several that emerged in the postwar period as Washington sought to enlist allies against the Soviet Union. Bolton said the administration will review all international agreements that may bind us to politicized bodies. The issue is protecting the United States from the politicized abuse of these international institutions, Bolton said. During the U.N. General Assembly last week, Bolton described as outright dangerous the International Criminal Court, a separate judicial body created in 2002 to prosecute crimes against humanity, genocide and similar atrocities. The United States, along with Israel, China and several other countries, was never party to the ICC. By contrast, the International Court of Justice was created in 1945 during the founding of the U.N. as the principal organ to resolve legal disputes between member states. The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations is an international treaty that governs diplomatic disputes, treaty laws and consular relations, among other issues. The administration did not seek to withdraw from the U.N. court, or from the Vienna Convention. The decisions come amid worsening U.S. relations with Iran following Trumps decision in May to withdraw from the landmark 2015 Iran nuclear deal. The administration reimposed a raft of economic sanctions in August, and has said it plans to add more stringent penalties on Nov. 4 in an effort to choke Irans oil exports, its principal source of income. After Iran sued at The Hague, arguing that the sanctions violate the 1955 treaty, the international court rejected the Trump administrations claim that it did not intend to harm the Iranian people. The sanctions exempt medical supplies and food, but the restrictions make it difficult for Iranians to use international banks and other financial systems to import such goods, the court said. It ordered the U.S. to trim the sanctions to ensure humanitarian aid can be imported. Iran praised the court ruling. The decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the U.S. sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The decision is legally binding, but Pompeo said the administration would continue to enforce sanctions with the existing exceptions for humanitarian goods and flight safety. The United States has been actively engaged on these issues without regard to any proceeding before the ICJ, he said. He added, Were disappointed that the court failed to recognize that it has no jurisdiction to issue any order relating to these sanctions measures with the United States. Irans economy has taken a heavy hit from the latest sanctions. It is likely to plummet if oil production is substantially reduced. Trump administration officials have lobbied international companies that signed contracts with Tehran after the nuclear deal was completed in 2015, such as Peugeot and Volkswagen, to pull out or risk violating the sanctions. Many have complied. U.S. officials have pressed other nations, including China, India and Japan, to cease importing Iranian oil, with less success. Trump sought to rally support for his crackdown on Iran at the U.N. last week, but the other signatories to the nuclear accord England, France, Germany, Russia and China are trying to keep it afloat. All except Germany are permanent members of the Security Council, which had approved the Iran deal. This is the first time a member of the Security Council violates a U.N. resolution and punishes the other members for sticking with it, said Barbara Slavin, director of the Future of Iran Initiative at the Atlantic Council think tank in Washington. After 40 years of being the rogue state, Iran is luxuriating in the United States now being the rogue state. Staff writer Eli Stokols contributed from the White House. tracy.wilkinson@latimes.com Twitter: @TracyKWilkinson Sen. Jeff Flake, a key figure in the Supreme Court confirmation battle, on Wednesday harshly criticized President Trump for mocking the account of a woman who has accused Judge Brett Kavanaugh of sexual assault decades ago. Theres no time and no place for remarks like that, Flake (R-Ariz.) said on NBCs Today show. To discuss something this sensitive at a political rally is just not right. Its just not right. I wish he hadnt of done it. Its kind of appalling. Flake, the Judiciary Committee member who pushed to delay the vote on Kavanaugh so the FBI could investigate, leveled his criticism the morning after Trump drew laughs for his remarks at a political rally in Mississippi. In his most direct attack on Christine Blasey Ford, who has accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault while both were teenagers in Maryland, Trump sought to highlight holes in the account Ford gave in sworn testimony to the Judiciary Committee last week. Advertisement I dont know. I dont know. Upstairs? Downstairs? Where was it? I dont know. But I had one beer. Thats the only thing I remember, Trump said of Ford as he impersonated her on stage. I dont remember, he said repeatedly, apparently mocking her testimony. Ford has said the incident happened in an upstairs room at a gathering of teenagers and that she is 100%" certain it was Kavanaugh who assaulted her, although she has acknowledged that her memories of other details of the evening remain unclear. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has vowed to hold a full Senate vote on the nomination by the end of the week as senators await the results of the FBI probe into the allegations of misconduct by Kavanaugh. Besides Ford, two other women have publicly accused Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct while he was in high school or college. Trumps comments at Tuesday nights rally prompted a debate that played out on cable television over whether he had hurt the chances of his nominee. Flake and two other key Republicans moderate Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska are declining to say how theyll vote until they see the results of the FBI investigation, which is expected to be completed before the Senate votes. Democratic Sens. Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota and Joe Manchin of West Virginia also have yet to announce how they will vote. Wagner writes for the Washington Post. A report from the state Legislative Analysts Office earlier this year confirmed the obvious: People are leaving California. Between 2007 and 2016, we lost 6 million residents to domestic migration. Our population still grew overall, gracias to out-of-staters moving in and our ever-impressive (though declining) birthrate. But the fact remains that many people dont think staying in California is worth the hassle anymore. The drop was low in historical terms, according to the LAO, but the political right pounced on the findings as proof of the decline of Taxifornia. Conservative pundits and politicians have claimed for years that state policies push our best and brightest to move away; indeed, they hail those who leave as new pioneers who deserve applause for taking their dreams and tax dollars elsewhere. Those eggheads, however, never seem to check in with the folks on the receiving end of the California exodus. I do, and I bring a message from them. If youre thinking of decamping, please dont. This summer, I drove on what has become an increasingly popular corridor for Californias quitters: I-15 to I-70. It runs through Nevada, Arizona, Utah and Colorado four of the seven most popular states for expat Golden Staters. Nearly half a million of them relocated to these four states in the past decade, according to the LAO. All along the way I saw the chaos that ex-Californians have wrought. Advertisement The same problems that are driving you out of California will follow you to your new burbs. I sped through Las Vegas, where housing subdivisions now stretch out to the hills and canyons in all directions. A third of the drivers licenses surrendered at Sin Citys DMV come from California. Henderson nowadays is basically Mission Viejo with worse heat but slightly less snobbery. In Utah, I stopped for gas in St. George, which the Census Bureau says is the fastest growing metro area in the United States. A recent story in High Country News highlighted the tensions there as agricultural fields give way to strip malls and people worry whether theres enough water to go around. In Cedar City, just 53 miles up I-15, a professor at Southern Utah University told me during a recent conference that the presenters warned everyone to prepare for a change in the fabric of civic life as the city of 30,000 faces record-breaking growth through 2030. I spent a night in Grand Junction, Colo., where a commercial on the hotel TV urged a yes vote on Proposition 110, one of two measures that seeks to fund transportation projects. The ad blamed population growth for Colorados deteriorating and overcrowded roads, and wants out-of-staters to pay their fair share to keep Colorado moving forward. Prop. 110 is a sales tax that everyone would pay, but its supporters clearly think tapping into the animosity toward newcomers is a winning strategy. The grand finale was Denver, which increasingly looks like downtown Los Angeles with its collection of repurposed old buildings, new cookie-cutter lofts and smog. A 2016 story in the alt-weekly Westword showed that between 2009 and 2013, Orange, San Diego and Los Angeles counties ranked among the top 10 counties that sent new residents to the Mile High City, with L.A. the leader. Colorado, in fact, has changed so much that the number of people moving out of the Centennial State in 2017 hit a record high. The Denver Post quoted a millennial who came west as a college student in 2009 but is now planning to return to New Jersey. The growth of our beautiful city has brought nothing but increased traffic, angry entitled transplants who have no respect, and a cost of living that is through the roof, she said. When people are moving back to Jersey, you know the Californians have caused serious problems. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute I say phooey to people who want all of the easy and none of the hard of California and just give up and git. But California does owe it to lesser states to try to keep our residents here rather than having them trample over the West like a cattle drive. Unfortunately, Gov. Jerry Brown was never able to fix our housing affordability issue, and I doubt Gavin Newsom will do much better. (Hey Gav, proposing to work with our corporate partners to create workforce housing smack of the days when robber barons paid in company scrip). So friends and family will continue to rent U-Hauls and head out on that California quitter corridor. But amigos y familias, take it from your humble sojourner: The same problems that are driving you out of California will follow you to your new burbs. And your new neighbors wont be happy about it. So stay. Tough it out. Participate in the solution rather than flee. Or if you must move, go to Texas. At least California colonialism can achieve something worthwhile there. mexicanwithglasses@gmail.com Twitter: @GustavoArellano On Sundays 60 Minutes, Sen. Jeff Flake, the Republican dissident who forced the FBI investigation of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, was asked whether Kavanaughs nomination would fail if he were shown to have lied to the committee. Oh, yes, Flake replied. If the Arizona senator is serious about that, and if one more Republican agrees with him, Kavanaughs nomination is in very serious trouble. One of the problems underlying the sordid, epic Kavanaugh battle is that there is no universally accepted standard for what disqualifies a nominee from serving on the highest court. Advertisement A would-be justice must be professionally qualified; Kavanaugh meets that test. He or she must have a judicial temperament, and Kavanaugh appeared to meet that test, too, at least until he blew his stack at the Democrats, although plenty of senators consider his defiance a plus. In his account of his high school and college years, he evaded, exaggerated, misled, shaded facts. He lied. A justice should be innocent of charges of sexual assault but must those charges be proven beyond a reasonable doubt? Thats not clear. And while youthful misconduct might be forgiven, theres also no clear standard for what kind of teenage misbehavior qualifies for clemency. But the standard Flake instinctively embraced was the nominee honest in his testimony? may turn out to be the only test that the Senate and the public agree on. Kavanaughs testimony is not ancient history; it happened last week. Its at the core of the confirmation process. And its where the judge, in his anger, appears to have put himself in trouble. In his account of his high school and college years, he evaded, exaggerated, misled, shaded facts. He lied. Kavanaugh repeatedly said four potential witnesses to the sexual assault charged by Christine Blasey Ford had refuted her account; they did no such thing. (Hes a judge; he knows that refute means to prove that an assertion is false.) He initially portrayed his youth as dominated by homework, sports, churchgoing and service projects; only later did raw tales of Beach Week and barroom brawls emerge. He assured senators that when he was young, it was legal for high school seniors to drink beer. But by his senior year, that wasnt true. Asked about yearbook boasts of promiscuity (Renate Alumnius) and drunkenness (100 Kegs Club), he gave explanations so outlandish that you might laugh if your son offered them. (And then youd ground him.) The sum of all these misleading parts was an indelible picture of a not-fully-honest witness. Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut reminded him of a legal adage: False in one thing, false in all. As former FBI Director James B. Comey put it in a more homespun version: Little lies point to bigger lies. Republicans have sputtered that the Democrats are trying to hang a distinguished judge for drinking too much beer and being insensitive to young women when he was young. Besides, they say, Kavanaugh was angry. But anger doesnt excuse mendacity. The Senate Republican leader, Mitch McConnell, says the Democrats are moving the goal posts. But does asking for honesty really move the goal posts? Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute from L.A. Times Opinion What concerns McConnell more than lying, it seems, is that the FBI investigation will turn up just enough evidence to derail the nomination or at least justify another week or two of inquiries. Hes right to be worried. If the FBI investigation turns up evidence that confirms the accounts of Ford or Deborah Ramirez accounts Kavanaugh has denounced as wholly untrue hes gone. By the same token, if the FBI finds that neither witness or account is credible, hell probably get his seat on the court. But McConnell should reconsider his priorities. If the FBI report leaves the evidence on those charges inconclusive, but adds to what we are already learning that the judges drinking history was more disastrous than he acknowledged then Jeff Flake and other Republicans may continue to dissent. Did Kavanaugh assault Christine Blasey Ford? The Senate and the public will almost surely be stymied by an epistemological problem: It will be impossible to know what happened. As believable as Ford was, her testimony has too many gaps. In Flakes words, there will always be doubt. But on the question of Kavanaughs truthfulness? There is much less doubt. That leaves the Senate with a final question. Will a nominee for the Supreme Court be held to a lower standard of honesty than an ordinary job candidate? That one shouldnt be hard to answer. Doyle McManus is a contributing writer to Opinion. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand Facebook With all thats at stake in the midterm elections, Los Angeles voters would be forgiven for overlooking Charter Amendment B, a referendum that would amend the city charter to conform with an ordinance the City Council enacted earlier this year. But Charter Amendment B is no municipal snoozer. It proposes the most fundamental change to our economic system that Angelenos have ever had the opportunity to vote on. The amendment would allow for the creation of a Bank of Los Angeles: a public bank to be operated by and for the city. Currently, when L.A. collects tax revenue, that revenue does not immediately flow back out to pay city employees. Instead, the revenue is deposited into one of several mega-banks, to be withdrawn when the city needs the funds. This spring, the citys portfolio came to $9.5 billion. Were not talking chicken feed. L.A. has already withdrawn its funds from Wells Fargo, whose steady stream of abusive and fraudulent practices compelled the bank to pay billions in fines in recent years. But the alternatives the other Wall Street behemoths that brought us the 2008 crash and saddled us with the Great Recession also have a deference to shareholders and commitment to bonuses that exceed any interest they may have for the well-being of L.A. Advertisement The amendment would allow for the creation of a Bank of Los Angeles: a public bank to be operated by and for the city. Last year, a group of concerned Angelenos whod formed an advocacy organization, Public Bank LA, began talking to the City Council about establishing a municipal bank. They pointed to North Dakota, which since 1919 has had a state-owned bank that is used to make loans to businesses and farms. No out-of-state loans, no crazy debt swaps, no bets on Tesla futures just solid investments in North Dakotas economy. As a result of its public bank, North Dakota has the highest lending per capita of any state. Just as important, the state bank turned a profit for every one of the past 14 years, a claim Wall Streets giants cant make. Public Bank LA also pointed to the example set by Germany, where more than 400 municipal savings banks, staffed by professionals but under the control of local governments, have significantly bolstered that nations economy. Prohibited by law from making out-of-town investments, these local banks, into which most Germans regularly deposit their paychecks, have funded the countrys fabled Mittelstand, the small- and medium-size manufacturers that are the backbone of the German economy. Municipal banks have enabled Germany to preserve and upgrade its manufacturing sector and maintain a lot more of its middle class than we have. By contrast, our giant banks have been leading proponents of offshoring manufacturing, rewarding their shareholders and deal-makers at the expense of domestic investment and worker wages. Given Wall Streets role in creating a recession that gutted the economy and ruined the lives of millions of Americans, its not surprising that a number of cities across the county, and even several states, are now considering establishing publicly controlled banks. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute from L.A. Times Opinion Democrat Phil Murphy was elected governor of New Jersey last year on a platform that included establishing a state bank. And groups in six California cities have joined with Public Bank LA to form the California Public Banking Alliance. One does not generally think of the L.A. City Council as the vanguard of a movement for a more democratic economy, but earlier this year it voted unanimously to establish a city bank. Now voters will decide whether to let that ordinance come into effect. Critics have complained that the path to establishing a city bank will be long, with many hurdles to clear. It will require legislation in Sacramento and possibly in Washington as well and a sufficient level of capital, insurance and collateral. But any new public enterprise is likely to encounter such obstacles. Newness has been Californias stock in trade since its founding, and when accompanied by talent and judgment, innovation has produced many of the states signature enterprises. No serious look at L.A.s housing supply or its small-business climate would give anyone the impression that our existing mega-banks are interested in making the city great again. That will require a dedicated commitment to local investment. One clear way to help that happen is to vote yes on Measure B. Harold Meyerson is executive editor of the American Prospect. He is a contributing writer to Opinion. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or Facebook In the New World he supposedly discovered in 1492 if you dont count the millions who were living here already Christopher Columbus is a reputation in eclipse. The sea captain-navigator whose explorations gave Spain a massive empire has also had laid at his feet the seeds of genocide and destruction, by conquest and disease, of early people and cultures throughout much of Latin America. A number of U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, have renamed his federal holiday Indigenous Peoples Day. The outcry even reached the Tournament of Roses parade, which, in 1992, the 500th anniversary of Columbus voyage, invited a Native American congressman to join a descendant of Columbus as parade grand marshal. Had Columbus sailed due west, more people in Virginia or the Carolinas might be speaking Spanish today. But he sailed west, then south, and the people he found there looked very different from what he expected. Paradoxically, 50 years exactly after Columbus sailed the ocean blue, imperial Spain recognized some of the New Worlds earliest human rights laws ever. Those laws didnt stop Native Americans from being exploited, robbed or even killed, but they could not legally be bought and sold as slaves. Caltech history professor and author Nicolas Wey Gomez undertakes a voyage into this odd legacy of the man the Spanish call Cristobal Colon. Click here for the full archive of "Patt Morrison Asks" podcasts When Columbus sailed, what were his preconceptions about the people he would find and whether he even regarded them as people? There was a long tradition in Mediterranean Europe going back as far as the written record allows: The Greeks had a conception that people in the Mediterranean lived ideal lives, that the Mediterranean itself was an ideal place for life and indeed for the normalcy of life. And they thought of barbarians, and particularly of those barbarians that lived in the colder and hotter latitudes of the world, to be inferior to them. They lived in places where nature was somewhat monstrous, produced all kinds of marvels and monsters, and the blackness of sub-Saharan Africans was considered a sort of monstrosity among humans. So as Columbus entered this New World, he expected that the farther south he went, the blacker the skin of the people he would find, and that shaped itself in his mind about how to deal with them. Is that right? This was a common preconception among Europeans, the idea that the farther you went into tropical latitudes, the darker skinned complexion of peoples. And indeed, there was a tradition of thinkers and writers that began to connect blackness itself with servitude, with the condition of slavery. Columbus expected, presumably, to find black-skinned people and expected to exploit them as black-skinned people were being exploited in Africa? This is not said explicitly in the documents, but he certainly expressed great surprise to find that the color of the Indians did not tend to darken as he moved farther south into the Caribbean. And this discovery of lighter-skinned people than he expected occasioned a kind of Oh, s moment, like, what are we going to do with these people? After the discovery in 1492, as Columbus was returning to Europe and saw himself victoriously returning to Europe he wrote a number of letters, versions of which we have today. In the most public of those letters, he promised the Catholic monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabel, that he would deliver an infinite number of slaves, and that those slaves would be from among the idolaters; enemies of the Christian faith is probably what he meant by the term idolaters. In Atlantic Africa, the Portuguese had used the excuse that sub-Saharan Africans were enemies of Christ, and they had, in the course of the 15th century, gone to the papacy and asked for permission to continue to conquer and invade these places, and enslave those peoples, which was something that was common in war. And the Vatican said, sure, go ahead? They acted as notary publics to crown ventures in Atlantic Africa. These documents are some of the most belligerent documents you can possibly imagine, and essentially offering spiritual indulgences in exchange for the conquering invasion, the subjugation of those territories. It's violent language, and it's very, very explicit. Columbus has a quandary, but it didn't take him long to decide, Nope, they're slave material, no matter what their skin color. Yes. Things get very complicated as soon as he returns to Europe because the Catholic monarchs went to Alexander VI, a Borgia pope, and asked for him to deliver documents essentially donating the Indies to Castile. And those were contested very soon afterward, because there was already a tradition in Europe among experts in law that questioned the right of the pope to have anything but spiritual dominion over non-Christians. [But] the pope expedited these documents, these donations of the Indians to the Catholic monarchs. What year are we talking about? Columbus was returning to the New World in 1493, and he stayed there until 1496. About the first group of slaves going to market, what happened to them? Columbus had promised the delivery of slaves from among the idolaters in that very public letter. Columbus conducted raids in Hispaniola; they collected about 1,500 people, and of those 1,500 people, 500 were selected to be brought back to the slave market in Seville, [Spain]; 500 others were distributed among the colonists, and about 500 others were told to scram. You can imagine the terror of people running for their lives, away from these scenes. Those 500 slaves arrived in the market in Seville, and in 1495, something really surprising happened, which was that they were not automatically sold to the people who had pledged to buy them. The crown issued an order to the bishop of Seville not to bill the buyers of these slaves until the matter had been studied by their theologians, by their lawyers and by men of letters. It is the first reference we have to an official debate about the legality of enslaving the so-called Indians. Did this surprise you? It did and it didnt. We have known for some time that imperial Spain was the home for one of the first modern debates about the legality of empire and about the legality of enslaving, in this case, Indians. But there are indications that this debate was on almost from the moment that Columbus sent the first 500 slaves to the market in Seville. What may be even more surprising is that those slaves were ordered released and returned to Hispaniola. They were not allowed to be sold. This means that the decision or the advice must have been, it is not clear that we can enslave them. But the question of what the grounds for enslavement were was kind of muddy. These were clearly not infidels. They had not had a chance to reject the word of Christ as people in Africa might have had, who had become Muslims and so they hadn't chosen to oppose Christianity; they didn't know about Christianity in the first place. They were neophytes. They had no idea. But then, there was the question of the other Indians who were [already] being enslaved right and left: Could they be enslaved? I suspect that part of the question had been raised by the fact that the Indians had a skin color that did not correspond to that of African slaves being imported into Europe, and that this caused a certain amount of confusion. It appears that [Queen] Isabel had quite a bit of conscience in respect to this issue. When she died in 1504, in her last will and codicil she ordered Ferdinand and her heirs to respect her wishes in relation to the Indians. She wanted them to be treated as vassals of the crown. What did that mean, as vassals? It means that they should not suffer any harm to their selves, to their persons, or to their property; that they should be respected, and that they should be treated like any other vassal of the crown. Like subjects of the crown. Absolutely, subjects of the crown. After her death, Ferdinand himself appears to have called a junta in order to examine the question of the papal bulls of donation, which are being brought into question, seemingly, by this last will of Isabels. We don't know much more about this, except that the crown clearly felt that the donations [of the Indies to Spain] were not only for spiritual dominion, but also for temporal [physical] dominion. Ironically, the first protest against the treatment that colonists were visiting on the Indians came from missionaries. In 1511, the Dominican friars in the island of Hispaniola organized a round of sermons from the pulpit in which they condemned what was called by one of them the exquisite cruelties that had been visited on the Indians, because they were being treated as virtual slaves. You can imagine how this went down with the crowd at church! The colonists were furious. And they sent back a protest to Ferdinand. This was a tactical mistake on the part of the colonists, because Ferdinand, being the legalist that he was, called a junta, a council of learned people, including theologians, to ask how these Indians were to be treated. They came out with the following opinion: They said the Indians have a right to be treated fairly. They have a right to recreation, to periods of rest. They ought to be remunerated for their work. And they ought to be allowed to have time in order to tend to their families and property. Astonishing to hear seemingly modern concepts come out of what was essentially a feudal monarchical system. Extremely modern concepts. It is the first indication we have of what was then snowballing as a debate about the occupation of the Indies and about the future of the Indians themselves. Ferdinand was not very happy with this conclusion, and so he basically slashed this junta and gathered his own junta; he managed to get some people who would say exactly what he wanted. So King Ferdinand had his way, overturning his dead wife's wishes, overturning the conclusions of the first junta. But in 1542, 50 years after Columbus arrived in the New World, there was an edict by Ferdinands grandson that accomplished what? This first official debate spurred a controversy that only grew over the years. One of the most important figures in this early history of modern human rights is a man by the name of Bartolome de las Casas, who was also a Dominican, and who arrived in the New World at the turn of the 16th century, who eventually became a priest. And historian. Bartolome de las Casas suffered a process of increasing epiphanies that led him to radicalize himself over the course of several decades, and he came to question the legality of the conquest and to question the status that Indians had been accorded in the New World. He was one of the voices that was raised against Indian slavery in the 1530s, and against the system of land and labor grants that Columbus had installed, known as the encomienda system. Las Casas had the ear of the crown, of Charles and his advisors Charles V, the holy Roman emperor. And in 1542, the new laws prohibited the enslavement of Indians and the idea that your heirs could inherit Indians and land for ever and ever. The promulgation of these new laws caused an upheaval in the New World, and eventually the crown kind of goes back on them. But this was an incredibly important moment in the history of human rights, as far as the inhabitants of the Americas were concerned. The paradox is that while slavery didnt destroy them in the New World, greed did its work. Disease did its work. And the people were ravaged. Nonetheless, they had rights on paper, but in practice, look what happened to them. Absolutely. There is no question about that. By 1502, the first African slaves were being imported into the Caribbean. Bartolome de las Casas considered that what was happening in Africa was just as terrible, just as illegal, just as sinful as what was happening in the Indies. And what about Columbus? His reputation has suffered a great deal in the last half-century. On the one hand, Columbus was a great navigator. What he did, which was to connect the Old World and the New [World], has consequences all the way to this day. You and I would not be sitting here if it had not been for the Colombian voyages. Part of his legacy is, of course, the terrible things that happened to Amerindians as a consequence of his voyages and European expansion into the Americas. So this is a very complex legacy. Support our journalism Already a subscriber? Thank you for your support. If you are not, please consider subscribing today. Get full access to our signature journalism for just 99 cents for the first four weeks. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or Facebook. MORE PATT MORRISON ASKS Guess what? The rich really are different from everyone else and it aint pretty Have tech companies like Facebook tricked us into abandoning our humanity? Ken Burns on making his Vietnam War documentary: 'I was humiliated by what I didn't know' Allies balk at Trump administration bid to block Chinese firm from cutting-edge telecom markets By David S. Cloud Britain and Germany are balking at the Trump administrations call for a ban on equipment from Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei, threatening a global U.S. campaign to thwart Chinas involvement in future mobile networks. Both countries are expected to limit Huawei and other Chinese companies from providing core components including routers. But other types of Chinese equipment for next-generation, high-speed communications could still be installed on British and German networks, officials and analysts say. The U.S. push to ban Huawei has provoked a global dispute in recent weeks, with senior U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo, publicly urging NATO allies in Europe to exclude the company and warning that the United States might limit its military presence in countries that did not do so. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Confucius Institutes: Do they improve U.S.-China ties or harbor spies? By Don Lee Hanging red lanterns welcome visitors to the University of Marylands Confucius Institute, the oldest of about 100 Chinese language and cultural centers that have popped up over the last 15 years on American campuses, subsidized by millions of dollars from Chinas central government. But last fall, when four U.S. Senate investigators walked into the Confucius offices in Maryland and spent hours questioning staff, they werent looking for an educational exchange. The committee has been seeking detailed information from the university about the program, including contracts, email exchanges and financial arrangements that school administrators have kept under wraps since it started in 2004. American colleges once viewed these jointly funded institutes as an economical way to expand their language offerings one that could also bring warmer ties with China and, importantly, an influx of Chinese international students paying full tuition. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Watch Live: White House holds surprise news briefing amid government shutdown Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement U.S. policy toward China shifts from engagement to confrontation By David S. Cloud For decades, China had no closer American friend than Dianne Feinstein. As San Francisco mayor in the 1970s, she forged a sister-city relationship with Shanghai, the first between American and Chinese communities. As U.S. senator, she dined with Chinese leaders at Mao Tse-tungs old Beijing residence. And in the 1990s, she championed a trade policy change that opened a floodgate of Western investment into China. Today the Democratic senator sees China as a growing threat, joining a broad array of Trump administration officials, national security strategists and business executives who once favored engagement with Beijing and now advocate a confrontational approach instead. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Mnuchins attempt to calm markets backfires as Trump takes another shot at the Federal Reserve By Jim Puzzanghera An attempt by Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin to calm plunging financial markets backfired Monday, further rattling investors with new fears about whether major U.S. banks have enough cash on top of worries about interest rates, political instability in Washington and a slowing global economy. Adding to the volatile mix was a fresh attack on the Federal Reserve by President Trump, who declared that the central bank was the U.S. economys only problem and that it didnt have a feel for the market. The Fed is like a powerful golfer who cant score because he has no touch -- he cant putt! Trump said on Twitter. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print He speaks to Democratic hearts. But is Beto ORourke a serious White House contender? By Mark Z. Barabak Hes a failed U.S. Senate candidate with an undistinguished congressional record who, for the moment, is a blazing-hot 2020 presidential prospect despite the fact that he may not run and faces long odds if he does. Beto ORourke suggests the will-he-or-wont-he speculation is something he himself cant quite fathom. I think thats a great question, he responded in a Dallas Morning News interview when asked whether his unsuccessful November Senate bid merited a promotion to the White House. I ask that question myself. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Russian disinformation teams targeted Robert S. Mueller III, says report prepared for Senate By Craig Timberg, Tony Romm, Elizabeth Dwoskin Special counsel Robert S. Mueller III. (Associated Press) Months after President Trump took office, Russias disinformation teams trained their sites on a new target: special counsel Robert S. Mueller III. Having worked to help get Trump into the White House, they now worked to neutralize the biggest threat to his staying there. The Russian operatives unloaded on Mueller through fake accounts on Facebook, Twitter and beyond, falsely claiming that the former FBI director was corrupt and that the allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 election were crackpot conspiracies. One post on Instagram which emerged as an especially potent weapon in the Russian social media arsenal claimed that Mueller had worked in the past with radical Islamic groups. Such tactics exemplified how Russian teams ranged nimbly across social media platforms in a shrewd online influence operation aimed squarely at American voters. The effort started earlier than commonly understood and lasted longer while relying on the strengths of different sites to manipulate distinct slices of the electorate, according to a pair of comprehensive new reports prepared for the Senate Intelligence Committee and released Monday. Read more Timberg, Romm and Dwoskin report for the Washington Post. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement President Trump announces Mick Mulvaney as acting White House chief of staff By Associated Press President Trump says budget director Mick Mulvaney will serve as acting chief of staff, replacing John F. Kelly in the new year. I am pleased to announce that Mick Mulvaney, Director of the Office of Management & Budget, will be named Acting White House Chief of Staff, replacing General John Kelly, who has served our Country with distinction. Mick has done an outstanding job while in the Administration.... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 14, 2018 Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print It aint over when its over: In Michigan, Wisconsin and elsewhere, losers seek to undermine election results By Mark Z. Barabak Democrat Gavin Newsom has yet to become California governor, but already a candidate for state Republican Party chairman is promoting a recall effort. In Michigan and Wisconsin, GOP lawmakers have rushed through legislation to thwart their incoming Democratic governors and hamper others in the opposing party from doing the jobs voters chose them to do. In Congress, GOP leaders have echoed President Trump and sought to undermine the legitimacy of Democrats strong midterm performance, raising unsubstantiated allegations of fraud and political malfeasance. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print New CFPB Director Kathy Kraninger says she wont be a puppet of Mick Mulvaney By Jim Puzzanghera On her first full day leading the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Kathy Kraninger said she wont be a puppet of Mick Mulvaney, the controversial acting director whom she replaced in the powerful regulatory position. To underscore that point, the former White House aide said she would even reconsider a Mulvaney action that critics saw as a gratuitous jab at Democrats who championed the agencys creation: changing its name to the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection. Kraningers declaration during a meeting with reporters Tuesday addressed one of the main criticisms of her selection. She is considered a protege of Mulvaney, her boss at the White House Office of Management and Budget who has executed a dramatic, industry-friendly shift at the watchdog agency. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Trumps pick for chief of staff, Nick Ayers, out of running By Associated Press Nick Ayers, right, with Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch, at the funeral service for George H.W. Bush on Dec. 3. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Associated Press) President Trumps top pick to replace John F. Kelly as chief of staff, Nick Ayers, is no longer expected to fill that role. Thats according to a White House official who is not authorized to discuss the personnel issue by name and spoke on condition of anonymity. Ayers is Vice President Mike Pences chief of staff. The official says that Trump and Ayers could not agree on Ayers length of service. The father of young children, Ayers had agreed to serve in an interim capacity though the spring, but Trump wanted a two-year commitment. The official says that Ayers will instead assist the president from outside the administration. Trump announced Saturday that Kelly would be departing the White House around the end of the year. Thank you @realDonaldTrump, @VP, and my great colleagues for the honor to serve our Nation at The White House. I will be departing at the end of the year but will work with the #MAGA team to advance the cause. #Georgia Nick Ayers (@nick_ayers) December 9, 2018 Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement U.S. hiring slows to 155,000 jobs, unemployment rate holds at 3.7% By Jim Puzzanghera Job growth slowed significantly in November but still was solid, indicating the economy remains in good shape but not expanding so quickly that it will lead to sharply higher interest rates. U.S. employers added 155,000 jobs last month, well below analyst expectations and a steep decline from Octobers strong 237,000 figure, the Labor Department reported Friday. Still, monthly job gains are averaging 206,000 this year, the best since 2015. Even the slower pace of 170,000 over the last three months is close to last years average of 182,000 and well above the amount needed to keep up with population growth. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Trump is expected to pick State Department spokeswoman for U.N. ambassador By Associated Press Heather Nauert at a briefing at the State Department on Aug. 9, 2017. (Alex Brandon / Associated Press) President Trump is expected to nominate State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert to be the next U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Two administration officials confirmed Trumps plans. A Republican congressional aide said the president was expected to announce his decision by tweet on Friday morning. The officials were not authorized to speak publicly before Trumps announcement. Trump has previously said Nauert was under serious consideration to replace Nikki Haley, who announced in October that she would step down at the end of this year. Trump has been known to change course on staffing decisions in the past. Nauert was a reporter for Fox News Channel before she became State Department spokeswoman under former Secretary Rex Tillerson. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Senate confirms new consumer financial protection chief: Kathy Kraninger, protege of industry-friendly Mick Mulvaney By Jim Puzzanghera The Senate, in a party-line vote Thursday, confirmed White House aide Kathy Kraninger to head the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and experts predicted a continuation of the industry-friendly shift it has taken since President Trump installed an acting director last year. Kraninger is a protege of acting director and White House budget chief Mick Mulvaney, an outspoken critic of the agency that was created in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis to prevent predatory lending and other abuses that led to it. Democrats and consumer advocates have denounced him for sharply departing from the aggressive watchdog role the bureau had pursued under its first director, Obama-appointee Richard Cordray, including scaling back enforcement and moving to reassess tough new rules on payday loans and narrow the definition of abusive practices by banks and other firms. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Shutdown postponed by two weeks under plan approved by Congress By Erik Wasson Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.), shown at the Capitol on Tuesday, says President Trumps border wall is a waste of money. (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) Congress passed a two-week stopgap spending bill that will delay the chance of a partial government shutdown until Dec. 22 as lawmakers and President Donald Trump negotiate over his demands to pay for a wall on the southern border. The House and Senate passed the measure Thursday without dissent, and Trump has indicated hell sign the bill before the current shutdown deadline of midnight Friday. Negotiations were delayed by memorial services this week for former President George H.W. Bush. The temporary measure gives Democrats and Republicans more time to find a resolution to their biggest hurdle: funding a wall on the U.S. Mexico border wall. Trump says he wants $5 billion for parts of a concrete wall on the southern border and is willing to shut down the government if he doesnt get it. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York has said Democrats will provide no more than $1.6 billion for border security, because the wall is a waste of money. The presidents demands for wall funding from Congress come after he said during the campaign that Mexico would pay for it. This week he said on Twitter that a $25 billion border wall would pay for itself in two months, without providing evidence. Most of the U.S. governments $1.2 trillion discretionary budget has been appropriated already by Congress for the fiscal year that began on Oct. 1. Departments at a risk of a partial shutdown late this month include the departments of State, Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, Justice, Treasury and Homeland Security. Talks to resolve the differences have been on hold since a meeting among Trump, Schumer and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of California originally slated for Dec. 4 was postponed due to Bush memorial events. The three are scheduled to meet on Tuesday, according to a person familiar with the matter. Senate Appropriations Chairman Richard Shelby of Alabama told reporters the rest of the seven-bill spending package being negotiated is basically done. Shelby in recent weeks had tried to broker a compromise in which Trumps $5 billion request would be split over two years, but Schumer has rejected that. Some Democrats have been willing to trade border wall funding for deportation protections for young undocumented immigrants. Pelosi ruled out such a deal in remarks to reporters Thursday. The stopgap government funding measure also would extend the National Flood Insurance Program, which provides subsidized coverage for homes in flood-prone areas, to Dec. 21. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Bipartisan Senate group wants to formally blame Saudi crown prince for journalists killing By Karoun Demirjian Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires. (Associated Press) A bipartisan group of senators filed a resolution Wednesday condemning Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as responsible for the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, directly challenging President Trump to do the same. This resolution -- without equivocation -- definitively states that the crown prince of Saudi Arabia was complicit in the murder of Mr. [Jamal] Khashoggi and has been a wrecking ball to the region jeopardizing our national security interests on multiple fronts, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) said in a statement accompanying the release of the resolution. It will be up to Saudi Arabia as to how to deal with this matter. But it is up to the United States to firmly stand for who we are and what we believe. The resolution put forward by Graham and Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), who are expected to lead the Judiciary Committee together next year, comes just one day after CIA Director Gina Haspel briefed leading senators about the details of the agencys assessment that Mohammed ordered and monitored the killing and dismemberment of Khashoggi in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul, Turkey. Senators emerged from that closed-door briefing furious not only with Saudi Arabia, but Trump as well for dismissing the heft of the CIAs findings. You have to be willfully blind not to come to the conclusion that this was orchestrated and organized by people under the command of MBS and that he was intricately involved in the demise of Mr. Khashoggi, Graham said following the briefing, referring to Mohammed by his initials. He added that Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo and Defense Secretary James N. Mattis, who briefed senators last week, were at best being good soldiers and at worst were in the pocket of Saudi Arabia for presenting the evidence of Mohammeds involvement as inconclusive. The release of the resolution condemning Mohammed also comes as the Senate is preparing to move ahead with debate on a resolution to curtail U.S. support for the Saudi-led military campaign in Yemen. Though the Yemen resolution does not directly address Khashoggis murder, its popularity is a sign of how strained the United States patience with Saudi Arabia is on multiple fronts, including its role in worsening the civilian cost of the war in Yemen, cited by the United Nations as the worlds worst humanitarian crisis. Last week, the Senate voted 63 to 37 to advance the Yemen resolution past an opening procedural hurdle. But Graham and Feinsteins resolution on the crown prince has the potential of drawing broader support, especially from Republicans, who are deeply divided about how fiercely to punish Saudi Arabia over Khashoggis killing. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), who has been an outspoken advocate for human rights and is seen as one of the more influential foreign policy voices in the GOP, did not vote for the Yemen resolution last week or sign on to a bipartisan measure last month to sanction Saudi officials and cease weapons transfers to the kingdom. But he is an original co-sponsor of the resolution condemning Mohammed over Khashoggis death. So is Sen. Todd Young (R-Ind.), who represents the other end of the GOP spectrum in terms of recent Saudi-related votes and endorsements. Young was an initial co-sponsor of the bill Graham wrote with Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) to sanction Saudi officials deemed responsible for Khashoggis killing and stop the sale of anything but exclusively defensive weapons to the kingdom until it ceased hostilities in Yemen. Young also voted to advance the Yemen resolution something Graham did as well, though Graham has signaled he will not be lending any similar support to the measure, fearing it may establish a precedent of invoking the War Powers Act too broadly. Sens. Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) are listed as original co-sponsors of the resolution condemning Mohammed, which also urges Saudi Arabia to negotiate with Houthi rebels to end the Yemen war, work out a political solution to its standoff with Qatar and release political prisoners. But how much sway the resolution has probably comes down to how forcefully the administration decides to heed it -- and thus far, Trump has not shown any interest in condemning the crown prince the way the senators hope he will. Demirjian reports for the Washington Post. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Los Angeles County offices and U.S. Postal Service closed Wednesday in honor of George H.W. Bush By Brian Park The Honor Guard carries the casket of former U.S. President George H. W. Bush following his funeral on Dec. 5 in Washington, DC. (Doug Mills - Pool/Getty Images) The U.S. Postal Service will suspend regular mail delivery Wednesday, which President Trump has declared a national day of mourning in honor of former President George H.W. Bush. All retail postal outlets will be closed, and package delivery will be limited. In Los Angeles, all nonessential county departments, offices and libraries will be closed for the day, L.A. County officials said. The Los Angeles County Library said no overdue fines will be assessed for books, and due dates will be moved forward one week. Los Angeles County Department of Public Health offices also are closed Wednesday. The Sheriffs Department, Fire Department, clinics and hospitals will continue to operate, the county said. The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health clinics are being operated with reduced staffing, and the department asked patients to confirm or reschedule any appointments. All county courts and the disaster recovery centers for the Woolsey fire in Malibu and Agoura Hills will remain open. Larger federal government operations will be closed Wednesday. To honor the life and legacy of President Bush, the Postal Service will observe the National Day of Mourning. Learn how Postal operations will be affected. https://t.co/Mffch7bPCh pic.twitter.com/vG46BsIOpm U.S. Postal Service (@USPS) December 4, 2018 L.A. County offices and libraries will be closed tomorrow (Dec 5) in observance of the #NationalDayOfMourning for President George H. W. Bush. The Countys Disaster Recovery Centers in Malibu & Agoura Hills will remain open from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. pic.twitter.com/Sv1J7GoJ7T Los Angeles County (@CountyofLA) December 4, 2018 @LAPublicHealth offices will be closed tomorrow December 5 in observance of the national Day of Mourning for President George H. W. Bush. Essential Services including clinics and other services will remain open: https://t.co/tZGoGGHRlg pic.twitter.com/ypXsV6vlYY LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) December 4, 2018 Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick to skip 2020 White House race, sources say By Associated Press Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick speaks during an interview in Boston on Dec. 15, 2014. (Elise Amendola / Associated Press) Former Gov. Deval Patrick of Massachusetts will soon announce he wont launch a 2020 presidential campaign, according to three sources familiar with his plans. They did not say why the Democrat decided against a run. A formal announcement was delayed as the country observed a day of mourning for President George H.W. Bush, one source said. News of Patricks plans was first reported by Politico. Patrick, 62, served two terms as governor, from 2007 to 2015, was assistant attorney general for civil rights in the Clinton administration and since leaving the governors office has been a managing director for Bain Capital. Patrick traveled the country in support of Democratic candidates in the recent midterm election. Earlier this year, some of Patricks supporters and close advisors started the Reason to Believe political action committee, a grassroots organization dedicated to advancing a positive, progressive vision for our nation in 2018 and 2020. Reason to Believe PAC had been holding meetups across the country, including in early presidential primary states. While Patrick is opting against a 2020 run, dozens of Democrats are considering jumping in, including nearly a half-dozen members of the Senate, several House members, and other Massachusetts politicians. On Tuesday, Michael Avenatti, the attorney for adult film star Stormy Daniels and a vocal critic of President Trump, said in a statement that he would run. Patrick had previously expressed some concerns about breaking through if he sought the nomination, telling David Axelrod, a former advisor to President Obama, that he wasnt sure he could stand out in such a large field. Its hard to see how you even get noticed in such a big, broad field without being shrill, sensational or a celebrity, and Im none of those things and Im never going to be any of those things, Patrick said in a September interview with Axelrod. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Former Trump adviser Roger Stone invokes 5th Amendment right and wont testify before Senate Judiciary Committee By Associated Press Roger Stone in 2017. (Joe Raedle / Getty Images) Roger Stone, an associate of President Trump, says he wont provide testimony or documents to the Senate Judiciary Committee. An attorney for Stone said in a letter to Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the committees top Democrat, that Stone was invoking his 5th Amendment right against self-incrimination in refusing to produce documents or appear for an interview. Stone has been entangled in investigations by Congress and special counsel Robert S. Mueller III about whether Trump aides had advance knowledge of Democratic emails published by WikiLeaks during the 2016 election. Stone has not been charged and has said he had no knowledge of the timing or specifics of WikiLeaks plans. In the letter to Feinstein, Stone said the committees requests were far too overbroad, far too overreaching and far too wide-ranging. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Watch live: Vice President Pence and lawmakers honor George H.W. Bush at the U.S. Capitol before he lies in state Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Rebuilding crumbling infrastructure has bipartisan support. But who gets to pay for it? By Jim Puzzanghera The grades for major U.S. infrastructure would give any parent indigestion if they were on a childs report card. Roads: D; bridges: C+; dams: D; ports: C+: railways: B; airports: D; schools: D+; public transit: D-. The nations overall grade: D+, which translates to being in fair to poor condition and mostly below standards with significant deterioration and a strong risk of failure, according to an evaluation last year by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Trump calls former lawyer Michael Cohen a weak person who is lying By Associated Press President Trump says his former lawyer Michael Cohen is lying to get a reduced sentence. The president is reacting to Cohens guilty plea Thursday to lying to Congress about work he did on a Trump real estate project in Russia. During a surprise court hearing, Cohen admitted to lying in testimony to the Senate Intelligence Committee about a plan to build a Trump Tower in Moscow. Cohen in his guilty plea said he made the false statements to be consistent with Trumps political message. Cohens lawyer says he continues to cooperate with special counsel Robert S. Mueller IIIs investigation into Russian election interference and possible coordination with Trump associates. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print As California Republicans confront a congressional wipeout, GOP leader Kevin McCarthy faces a reckoning By Mark Z. Barabak When the House voted to repeal the Affordable Care Act, Kevin McCarthy trooped with other Republican lawmakers to a splashy Rose Garden celebration, smiling alongside President Trump as they celebrated the moment. As majority leader, McCarthy had helped round up the votes to narrowly pass the hard-fought legislation, convincing 13 other California Republicans to go along, even though several faced tough reelection fights. Fewer than half will be returning in January. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print As California Republicans confront a congressional wipeout, GOP leader Kevin McCarthy faces a reckoning By Sarah D. Wire When the House voted to repeal the Affordable Care Act, Kevin McCarthy trooped with other Republican lawmakers to a splashy Rose Garden celebration, smiling alongside President Trump as they celebrated the moment. As majority leader, McCarthy had helped round up the votes to narrowly pass the hard-fought legislation, convincing 13 other California Republicans to go along, even though several faced tough reelection fights. Fewer than half will be returning in January. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Michael Cohen, President Trumps ex-lawyer, pleads guilty to lying to Congress about Trump real estate project in Russia By Associated Press Michael Cohen, President Trumps former personal lawyer, pursued a Russian real estate project on candidate Trumps behalf well into the 2016 campaign, he said Thursday while pleading guilty to lying to Congress. Cohen had previously said that the project was abandoned in January 2016, but he now admits he continued to pursue a deal and says he updated Trump and members of his family about the negotiations, according to a new court document. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement James Comey says acting Atty. Gen. Whitaker may not be the sharpest knife in our drawer By John Wagner Acting Atty. Gen. Matthew Whitaker speaks at the Justice Department in Washington on Nov. 14. (Pablo Martinez Monsivais / Associated Press) Former FBI Director James B. Comey apparently isnt too impressed with the mental prowess of President Trumps acting attorney general. Matthew Whitaker may not be the sharpest knife in our drawer, Comey said during a radio interview on Monday night in which he sized up the man Trump installed this month to replace ousted Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions. Comey was asked by WGBH News in Boston if he thinks Whitaker could derail the investigation of special counsel Robert S. Mueller III into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Whitaker has spoken critically of the probe, and Trump as recently as Tuesday continues to call it a witch hunt. I think its a worry, but to my mind not a serious worry, Comey said. The institution is too strong, and [Whitaker], frankly, is not strong enough to have that kind of impact. He may not be the sharpest knife in our drawer, but he can see his future and knows that if he acted in an extralegal way, he would go down in history for the wrong reasons, and Im sure he doesnt want that, added Comey, who was fired by Trump last year and later wrote a book that portrays the president as an ego-driven congenital liar. Whitaker, a former U.S. attorney in Iowa, was Sessions chief of staff before being picked by Trump to lead the Justice Department. Trump has called Whitaker a very smart man. Earlier this year, Trump called Comey an untruthful slime ball. Wagner writes for the Washington Post. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Interior Department watchdog clears Zinke in investigation of Utah national monument By Juliet Eilperin Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke, third from the left, and Gov. Jerry Brown tour fire damage in Paradise, Calif., on Nov. 14. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) The Interior Departments Office of Inspector General has cleared Secretary Ryan Zinke in a probe of whether he redrew boundaries of a national monument in Utah to aid the financial interests of a Republican state lawmaker and stalwart supporter of President Trump. In a Nov. 21 letter to Zinkes deputy, David Bernhardt, Deputy Inspector General Mary Kendall wrote that her office found no evidence that the secretary or his aides changed the boundaries of Utahs Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in an effort to help former Utah state representative Mike Noel, who serves as executive director of the Kane County Water Conservancy District. Last December, Trump shrank the monument, first established by President Clinton in 1996, by 46% based on Zinkes recommendation. Noel owns 40 acres that had been surrounded by the monument, but now lies outside its boundaries. The new boundaries also would make it easier to construct the proposed Lake Powell Pipeline, which would deliver water to sites in Kane County that include Noels property. Earlier this year, the Interior Department had proposed selling off 120 acres of federal land from the former monument that lay adjacent to some of Noels land holdings, but later reversed the plan. We found no evidence that Noel influenced the DOIs proposed revisions to the [monuments] boundaries, that Zinke or other DOI staff involved in the project were aware of Noels financial interest in the revised boundaries, or that they gave Noel any preferential treatment in the resulting proposed boundaries, Kendall wrote. Neither the Interior Department nor the inspector generals office would release the actual investigative report. In the letter, Kendall writes that her office will provide the report to Congress no sooner than 31 days from Nov. 21, when it is provided it to Zinkes office. The Associated Press first reported the inspector generals conclusions Monday night, but did not provide details from the report itself. Noel emailed Zinke about the effort to alter Grand Staircase-Escalante, according to emails released by Interior under the Freedom of Informational Act. But those emails do not make references to Noels land holdings. Noel also pushed to rename a Utah highway in honor of Trump, but abandoned that effort in March after some of his fellow Republicans objected to the idea. Noel did not respond to requests for comment Tuesday. The inspector generals office still has at least two ongoing probes of the secretary, including one focused on his real estate dealings in Whitefish, Mont., and another regarding his decision to deny a permit to two Connecticut tribes who were hoping to jointly run a casino after MGM Resorts International lobbied against it. Interior Department spokeswoman Heather Swift welcomed the watchdogs conclusions. The report shows exactly what the secretarys office has known all along that the monument boundaries were adjusted in accordance with all rules, regulations and laws, she said in an email. This report is also the latest example of opponents and special interest groups ginning up fake and misleading stories, only to be proven false after expensive and time consuming inquiries by the IGs office. But Kendalls spokeswoman, Nancy DiPaolo, defended the inquiry, even though she said the report has not been publicly released and we will not be speaking specifically about the matter at this time. The OIG opens investigations based on credible allegations and reports our findings objectively and independently, DiPaolo added. Any time or resources spent investigating conduct or activity that may be a violation of law, regulation or policy is a service to the public, Congress and the Department. Rep. Raul Grijalva of Arizona, the top Democrat on the House Natural Resources Committee, said in a statement that he still intended to investigate the way Zinke and his colleague redrew the boundaries for Grand Staircase-Escalante and another Utah national monument, Bears Ears, next year. I have great respect for the inspector general, and I accept these findings, but Secretary Zinke should have known the people he listened to while destroying our national monuments had disqualifying conflicts of interest, he said. Should I chair the Natural Resources Committee in the next Congress, the process he and President Trump used to destroy Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante will be front and center in our oversight and investigations efforts. We need to know why they ignored overwhelming public expressions of support for both Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante, why they ignored Native American tribes throughout their decision-making, and why they removed protections on parcels of land with known mineral deposits. Eilperin and Rein report for the Washington Post. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Trump advisor Larry Kudlow says China must do more to end trade war By Jim Puzzanghera Larry Kudlow, President Trumps top economic advisor, said Tuesday that Chinas response to U.S. efforts to rework the two economic superpowers trade relationship has been extremely disappointing but the planned meeting this weekend between the nations leaders is an opportunity for a breakthrough. They have to do more. They must do more, Larry Kudlow, director of the White House National Economic Council, told reporters ahead of a Saturday dinner between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Group of 20 Summit in Argentina. I think the president is exactly right to show strong backbone when prior administrations did not, to break through these Chinese walls, Kudlow said. Theyre so resistant to change. We have to protect the country. We have to protect our technology, our inventiveness, our innovation. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Watch live: White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders holds a media briefing amid tensions at the border By Los Angeles Times Staff Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Democrat TJ Cox grabs lead over Republican David Valadao in nations last remaining undecided House race By Maya Sweedler Democrat TJ Cox slipped past Republican incumbent David Valadao on Monday to take the lead in the countrys sole remaining undecided congressional race, positioning Democrats to pick up their seventh House seat in California and 40th nationwide. Cox, who trailed by nearly 4,400 votes on election night, has steadily gained as ballot counting continues nearly three weeks after the Nov. 6 election, a pattern consistent with the states recent voting history. On Monday, he pulled ahead by 438 votes after Kern County updated its results. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Former CIA director Michael Hayden hospitalized after suffering a stroke By Deanna Paul Then-CIA Director Michael Hayden testifies before a Senate committee in 2008. (Saul Loeb / Getty Images) Former CIA Director and retired Air Force Gen. Michael Hayden has been hospitalized after suffering a stroke, his family said Friday. He is receiving expert medical care for which the family is grateful, according to a statement issued by his namesake organization. The General and his family greatly appreciate the warm wishes and prayers of his friends, colleagues, and supporters. Hayden, 73, served as director of the CIA and National Security Agency during the George W. Bush and Obama administrations. He retired from the CIA in 2009. Hayden has been a vocal critic of Donald Trumps campaign and presidency. Earlier this year, after Trump decided to revoke the security clearance of former CIA director John Brennan, Hayden was one of several former intelligence leaders who signed a statement in opposition. Criticizing the president for crossing a line, he quickly became one of the individuals whose security clearance Trump threatened to review. Deanna Paul writes for the Washington Post. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Trump tells troops hes thankful for what hes done for the U.S. and rails against courts and migrants By Associated Press President Trump talks with troops via teleconference from his estate in Palm Beach, Fla., on Thanksgiving. (Susan Walsh / Associated Press) President Trump used his Thanksgiving Day call to troops deployed overseas to pat himself on the back and air grievances about the courts, trade and migrants heading to the U.S.-Mexico border. Trumps call, made from his opulent private Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Fla., struck an unusually political tone as he spoke with members of all five branches of the military to wish them happy holidays. Its a disgrace, Trump said of judges who have blocked his attempts to overhaul U.S. immigration law, as he linked his efforts to secure the border with military missions overseas. Trump later threatened to close the U.S. border with Mexico for an undisclosed period of time if his administration determines Mexico has lost control on its side. The call was a uniquely Trump blend of boasting, peppered questions and off-the-cuff observations as his comments veered from venting about slights to praising troops You really are our heroes, he said as club waiters worked to set Thanksgiving dinner tables on the outdoor terrace behind him. It was yet another show of how Trump has dramatically transformed the presidency, erasing the traditional divisions between domestic policy and military matters and efforts to keep the troops clear of politics. You probably see over the news whats happening on our southern border, Trump told one Air Force brigadier general stationed at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan, adding: I dont have to even ask you. I know what you want to do, you want to make sure that you know who were letting in. Later, Trump asked a U.S. Coast Guard commander about trade, which he noted was a very big subject for him personally. Weve been taken advantage of for many, many years by bad trade deals, Trump told the commander, who sheepishly replied, Mr. President, from our perspective on the water we dont see any issues in terms of trade right now. And throughout, Trump congratulated himself, telling the officers that the country is doing exceptionally well on his watch. I hope that youll take solace in knowing that all of the American families you hold so close to your heart are all doing well, he said. The nations doing well economically, better than anybody in the world. He later told reporters, Nobodys done more for the military than me. Indeed, asked what he was thankful for this Thanksgiving, Trump cited his great family as well as himself. I made a tremendous difference in this country, he said. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Trump contradicts CIA assessment that Saudi crown prince ordered Jamal Khashoggi killing By Josh Dawsey | Washington Post (Susan Walsh / Associated Press) President Trump on Thursday contradicted the CIAs assessment that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had ordered the killing of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi, insisting that the agency had feelings but did not firmly place blame for the death. Trump, in defiant remarks to reporters from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, defended his continued support for Mohammed in the face of a CIA assessment that the crown prince had ordered the killing. He denies it vehemently, Trump said. He said his own conclusion was that maybe he did, maybe he didnt. I hate the crime .... I hate the cover-up. I will tell you this: The crown prince hates it more than I do, Trump said. Asked who should be held accountable for the death of Khashoggi, who was killed at the Saudi Consulate in Turkey, Trump refused to place blame. Maybe the world should be held accountable because the world is a very, very vicious place, the president said. He also seemed to suggest that all U.S. allies were guilty of the same behavior, declaring that if the others were held to the standard that critics have held Saudi Arabia to in recent days, we wouldnt be able to have anyone for an ally. Trumps remarks came after he held a conference call with U.S. military officers overseas, during which he repeatedly praised his administration and sought to draw the officers into discussions of domestic policy. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Former FBI Director James Comey gets subpoena from House Republicans By Bloomberg Former FBI Director James B. Comey said he has received a subpoena from House Republicans, according to a Twitter post on Thursday. Bloomberg News reported last week that Comey would be receiving a subpoena alongside former Atty. Gen. Loretta Lynch as part of continuing probes into their handling of investigations into Hillary Clinton and Russian election meddling, according to a top House Democrat. Happy Thanksgiving. Got a subpoena from House Republicans. Im still happy to sit in the light and answer all questions. But I will resist a closed door thing because Ive seen enough of their selective leaking and distortion. Lets have a hearing and invite everyone to see. James Comey (@Comey) November 22, 2018 Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Republican David Valadaos lead slips to 447 votes over Democrat TJ Cox in still-undecided Central Valley House race By Mark Z. Barabak Rep. David Valadao (R-Hanford), right, finds himself in an increasingly harrowing cliffhanger against Democrat TJ Cox. (Bill Clark / CQ Roll Call) On election night, it looked like Rep. David Valadao had survived a close shave and was destined to return to Washington for his fourth term. But on Wednesday, when Fresno County announced its latest vote totals, the Hanford Republican found himself in an increasingly harrowing cliffhanger against Democrat TJ Cox, with his lead in the Central Valley district shrunken to 447 votes. Thousands remain to be counted. Valadao, a repeated Democratic target, finished election night with a lead of nearly 4,440 votes. Cox, an engineer and a business owner who unsuccessfully ran for Congress in 2006, has steadily gained ground in the 21st Congressional District ever since. The trend is consistent with historic patterns showing Republicans in California tend to vote early and Democrats later, meaning their mail ballots continue to stream in past election day. Under California law, ballots postmarked up to midnight on Nov. 6 will be counted. Democrats have already picked up six House seats in California. They ousted Reps. Dana Rohrabacher, Mimi Walters, Steve Knight and Jeff Denham and won the seats of retiring Reps. Ed Royce and Darrell Issa. All six represented districts that backed Hillary Clinton over Donald Trump in 2016. Valadao was the seventh California Republican in a district Clinton won, though his previous successes he last won reelection by a 14-point margin suggested his ouster was a longer shot for Democrats. If Cox prevails, it would give Democrats a 40-seat gain nationwide, far more than the 23 seats needed to take control when Congress reconvenes in January. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Trump says no new punishments against Saudi Arabia in Jamal Khashoggi murder By Eli Stokols In this Oct. 25 photo, candles are lit in front of a photo of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. (Lefteris Pitarakis) President Trump made it clear on Tuesday that he does not intend to punish Saudi Arabia or Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the murder of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi, an American resident killed by Saudi officials in Turkey in October. In a remarkable statement replete with exclamation points, Trump cast doubt on the CIAs reported conclusions that it has a high degree of confidence that the crown prince ordered Khashoggis murder and sent his closest allies to Saudi Arabias consulate in Istanbul to carry it out. Read MoreThis article has been updated with staff. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Sixteen House Democrats vow to oppose Nancy Pelosi as next speaker By Mike DeBonis | Washington Post House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) Sixteen House Democrats said Monday that they will vote to deny Rep. Nancy Pelosi another stint as House speaker, a show of defiance that puts her opponents on the cusp of forcing a seismic leadership shake-up as their party prepares to take the majority. Their pledge to oppose Pelosi (D-San Francisco), both in an internal caucus election and a Jan. 3 floor vote, delivered in a letter sent to Democratic colleagues, comes as Pelosi has marshaled a legion of supporters on and off Capitol Hill to make her case. But her opponents said Monday they are convinced it is time to select a new leader. We are thankful to Leader Pelosi for her years of service to our Country and to our Caucus, they wrote. However, we also recognize that in this recent election, Democrats ran on and won on a message of change. Pelosi has expressed complete confidence that she will retake the speakers gavel in January eight years after she lost it following massive Republican gains in the 2010 midterms and 16 years after she was first elevated to the top Democratic leadership post in the House. Come on in, the waters fine, she said Friday about a potential leadership challenge. The signers might not be able to force Pelosi out themselves. The size of the Democratic majority remains in flux, but Democrats have already won 232 seats, according to the Associated Press, with five races still undecided. All those races have Republican incumbents, but the Democratic challenger is ahead in only one of them. If the leads hold in the uncalled races, Democrats would have won 233 seats, a 16-seat majority. That means Pelosi could lose as many as 15 Democratic votes when she stands for election as speaker on Jan. 3. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Democratic senators sue over Whitakers appointment as acting attorney general By Associated Press Acting U.S. Atty. Gen. Matthew Whitaker (Nicholas Kamm / AFP/Getty Images) Three Senate Democrats filed a lawsuit Monday arguing that Acting Atty. Gen. Matthew Whitakers appointment is unconstitutional and asking a federal judge to remove him. The suit, filed by Sens. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii and Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island, argues that Whitakers appointment violates the Constitution because he has not been confirmed by the Senate. Whitaker was chief of staff to Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions and was elevated to the top job after Sessions was ousted by President Trump on Nov. 7. The Constitutions Appointments Clause requires that the Senate confirm all principal officials before they can serve in their office. The Justice Department released a legal opinion last week that said Whitakers appointment would not violate the clause because he is serving in an acting capacity. The opinion concluded that Whitaker, even without Senate confirmation, may serve in an acting capacity because he has been at the department for more than a year at a sufficiently senior pay level. President Trump is denying senators our constitutional obligation and opportunity to do our job: scrutinizing the nomination of our nations top law enforcement official, Blumenthal said in a statement. The reason is simple: Whitaker would never pass the advice and consent test. In selecting a so-called constitutional nobody and thwarting every senators constitutional duty, Trump leaves us no choice but to seek recourse through the courts. The lawsuit comes days after a Washington lawyer challenged Whitakers appointment in a pending Supreme Court case dealing with gun rights. The attorney, Thomas Goldstein, asked the high court to find that Whitakers appointment is unconstitutional and replace him with Deputy Atty. Gen. Rod Rosenstein. Rosenstein, the second-ranking Justice Department official, has been confirmed by the Senate and had been overseeing special counsel Robert Muellers Russia investigation. Whitaker is now overseeing the investigation. The Justice Department issued a statement Monday defending Whitakers appointment as lawful and said it comports with the Appointments Clause, the Federal Vacancies Reform Act and legal precedent. There are over 160 instances in American history in which non-Senate confirmed persons performed, on a temporary basis, the duties of a Senate-confirmed position, Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said. To suggest otherwise is to ignore centuries of practice and precedent. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Gov. Rick Scott says Sen. Bill Nelson concedes Florida Senate race By Associated Press Republican Senate candidate Rick Scott speaks with his wife, Ann, by his side at an election watch party in Naples, Fla., on Nov. 7. (Wilfredo Lee / Associated Press) Floridas Republican Gov. Rick Scott says incumbent Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson called him to concede defeat in their extremely tight race. Scott issued a statement Sunday saying Nelson graciously conceded their Senate race shortly after the states recount ended. The final results show Scott defeated Nelson by just over 10,000 votes out of 8 million cast. Nelson is scheduled to release a videotaped statement later Sunday. The defeat ends Nelsons lengthy political career. The three-term incumbent was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 2000. Before that he served six terms in the U.S. House and as state treasurer and insurance commissioner for six years. Scott spent more than $60 million of his own money on ads that portrayed Nelson as out-of-touch and ineffective. Nelson responded by questioning Scotts ethics and saying he would be under the sway of President Trump. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Orange County goes blue, as Democrats complete historic sweep of its seven congressional seats By Michael Finnegan Gil Cisneros defeated Republican Young Kim on Saturday in the last of Orange Countys undecided House races, giving Democrats a clean sweep of the states six most fiercely fought congressional contests and marking an epochal shift in a region long synonymous with political conservatism. With Cisneros victory, Democrats will constitute the entirety of Orange Countys seven-member congressional delegation, the first time since the 1930s that the birthplace of Richard Nixon, home of John Wayne and spiritual center of the Republican Party will have no GOP representative in the House. Sitting back in the 1960s, I would never have believed this would happen, said Stuart K. Spencer, a party strategist who spent more than half a century ushering Republicans, including President Reagan, into office. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Going, going ... with midterm wipeout, California Republican Party drifts closer to irrelevance By Michael Finnegan For a party in freefall the last two decades, California Republicans learned that its possible to plunge even further. The GOP not only lost every statewide office in the midterm election again, in blowout fashion but Democrats reestablished their supermajority in Sacramento, allowing them to legislate however they see fit After major defeats in Orange County and the Central Valley, two longtime strongholds, Republicans will have a significantly smaller footprint on Capitol Hill. (Democrats hold both Senate seats.) When the vote-counting is finished, the GOP may not even have enough lawmakers in Californias 53-member House delegation to field a nine-person softball team. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Congresswoman-elect Katie Porter says she will support Rep. Nancy Pelosi for speaker By Maya Sweedler Democratic Rep.-elect Katie Porter is congratulated by volunteers at her campaign headquarters in Irvine. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) Congresswoman-elect Katie Porter said she plans to support Rep. Nancy Pelosis bid for speaker of the House and will make campaign finance reform her top priority when she enters the chamber in January. Im going to continue to have conversations, but so far I feel like Leader Pelosi is definitely making the things that were a priority to the families that elected me her priorities, including announcing her support for campaign finance reform and anti-corruption as HR1, Porter said in her first public appearance since being declared the winner in Californias 45th Congressional District on Thursday evening. It means a lot to me that she is a Californian. She understands our state, Porter added. When we talk about environmental protections, this is a person who understands as a Californian how fragile our environment is and whats at risk in things like drilling off our coasts. Porter, a law professor at UC Irvine, defeated two-term Republican Rep. Mimi Walters. The 45th District, covering inland Orange County, has never been represented by a Democrat. Porter became the third Democrat to claim a Republican-held seat in Orange County, following the victories of Harley Rouda in the 48th District and Mike Levin in the 49th. A fourth, Gil Cisneros, is running slightly ahead of his Republican opponent in the race for the open seat in the 39th District, which extends into Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. Porter attributed the massive political shift in the county, for decades a conservative stronghold, to increased levels of political engagement. Folks here care about education, they care about the environment, they believe climate change is real, they want healthcare that protects preexisting conditions, they want a tax system that doesnt punish California, they want our schools and places of worship to be safe from gun violence, she said. Those are the issues we campaigned on, and to the extent that Donald Trump and Mimi Walters were on the wrong side of those issues, the voters have made clear what direction they want us to go. Porter was flying back from the East Coast when her race was called, she said. She turned on her phone to find 167 text messages from friends and supporters. Among them was Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), who was one of Porters teachers in law school and with whom she has remained close. The pair spoke via FaceTime this morning, she said. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Bitter battle for Senate seat in Florida goes to hand recount By Associated Press Employees look through damaged ballots during a recount Thursday in West Palm Beach, Fla. (Wilfredo Lee / Associated Press) Floridas acrimonious battle for the U.S. Senate headed Thursday to a legally required hand recount after an initial review by ballot-counting machines showed Republican Gov. Rick Scott and Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson separated by less than 13,000 votes. But the highly watched contest for governor between Republican Ron DeSantis and Democrat Andrew Gillum appeared to be over, with a machine recount showing DeSantis with a large enough advantage over Gillum to avoid a hand recount in that race. Gillum, who conceded the contest on election night only to retract his concession later, said in a statement that it is not over until every legally casted vote is counted. The recount so far has been fraught with problems. One large Democratic stronghold in South Florida was unable to finish its machine recount by the Thursday deadline due to machines breaking down. A federal judge rejected a request to extend the recount deadline. We gave a heroic effort, said Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Susan Bucher. If the county had three or four more hours, it would have made the deadline to recount ballots in the Senate race, she said. Meanwhile, election officials in another urban county in the Tampa Bay area decided against turning in the results of their machine recount, which came up with 846 fewer votes than originally counted. Media in South Florida reported that Broward County finished its machine recount but missed the deadline by a few minutes. Counties were ordered last weekend to do a machine recount of three statewide races because the margins were so tight. The next stage is a manual review of ballots that were not counted by machines to see whether there is a way to figure out voter intent. Scott called on Nelson to end the recount battle. Its time for Nelson to respect the will of the voters and graciously bring this process to an end rather than proceed with yet another count of the votes which will yield the same result and bring more embarrassment to the state that we both love and have served, the governor said in a statement. The recount has triggered multiple lawsuits, many of them filed by Nelson and Democrats. The legal battles drew the ire of U.S. District Judge Mark E. Walker, who slammed the state for repeatedly failing to anticipate election problems. He also said the state law on recounts appears to violate the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that decided the presidency in 2000. We have been the laughingstock of the world, election after election, and we chose not to fix this, Walker said during a morning hearing. Walker vented his anger at state lawmakers and Palm Beach County officials, saying they should have made sure they had enough equipment in place to handle this kind of a recount. But he said he could not extend the recount deadline because he did not know when Palm Beach County would finish its work. This court must be able to craft a remedy with knowledge that it will not prove futile, Walker wrote in his ruling turning down the request from Democrats. It cannot do so on this record. This court does not and will not fashion a remedy in the dark. The overarching problem was created by the Florida Legislature, which Walker said passed a recount law that appears to run afoul of the 2000 Bush vs. Gore decision by locking in procedures that do not allow for potential problems. A total of six election-related lawsuits are pending in federal court in Tallahassee as well at least one lawsuit filed in state court. Walker also ordered that voters be given until 5 p.m. Saturday to show a valid identification and fix their ballots if they have not been counted due to mismatched signatures. Republicans appealed the ruling, but an appeals court turned down the request. State officials testified that nearly 4,000 mailed-in ballots were set aside because local officials decided the signatures on the envelopes did not match the signatures on file. If those voters can prove their identity, their votes will be counted and included in final official returns due from each county by noon Sunday. Walker was asked by Democrats to require local officials to provide a list of people whose ballots were rejected. But the judge appointed by President Obama refused the request, calling it inappropriate. Under state law, a hand review is required with races that have a margin of 0.25 percentage points or less. A state website put the unofficial results showing Scott ahead of Nelson by 0.15 percentage points. The margin between DeSantis and Gillum was at 0.41 points. The margin between Scott and Nelson had not changed much in the last few days, conceded Marc Elias, an attorney working for Nelsons campaign. But he said that he expected the vote tally to shrink due to the hand recount and the ruling on signatures. The developments fueled frustrations among Democrats and Republicans alike. Democrats want state officials to do whatever it takes to make sure every eligible vote is counted. Republicans, including President Trump, have argued without evidence that voter fraud threatens to steal races from the GOP. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Democrat Gil Cisneros pulls ahead of Republican Young Kim as more votes are tallied in Orange and San Bernardino counties By Michael Finnegan Congressional candidate Gil Cisneros (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) Democrat Gil Cisneros pulled ahead of Republican Young Kim in one of Californias undecided congressional races Thursday, an ominous sign for a GOP already reeling from its loss of four House seats in the state. In updated vote counts released by the registrars for Orange and San Bernardino counties, Kim fell 941 votes behind Cisneros in the contest to succeed Republican Rep. Ed Royce in Californias 39th Congressional District. The 39th straddles Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Orange counties. In another unresolved House race, Democrat Katie Porter pulled further ahead of Republican incumbent Mimi Walters in the 45th District, which includes Mission Viejo, Tustin, Irvine, Rancho Santa Margarita and Laguna Hills. Porter, a consumer attorney and UC Irvine law professor, is now 6,203 votes ahead. The Nov. 6 midterm election has been devastating to Republicans in California. If Cisneros and Porter win, the party will have lost six of its 14 House seats in the state, essentially a wipeout in every contest that both parties spent heavily to win. The three Republicans already bounced from Congress are Reps. Dana Rohrabacher of Costa Mesa, Steve Knight of Palmdale and Jeff Denham of Turlock in the San Joaquin Valley. Democrat Mike Levin won the seat of retiring GOP Rep. Darrell Issa of Vista in the fourth district flipped so far. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Florida Senate race likely headed to second recount By Associated Press A Palm Beach County Sheriffs deputy walks past boxes of ballots before a recount on Nov. 15 in West Palm Beach, Fla. (Wilfredo Lee) Unofficial Florida election results show that the governors race seems to be settled after a machine recount but the U.S. Senate race is likely headed to a hand recount. Republican Ron DeSantis is virtually assured of winning the nationally watched governors race over Democrat Andrew Gillum. Florida finished a machine recount Thursday that showed Gillum without enough votes to force a manual recount. Unofficial results posted on a state website show the margin between U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson and Gov. Rick Scott is still thin enough to trigger a second review. State law requires a hand recount of races with a margin of 0.25 percentage point or less. Counties have until Sunday to inspect the ballots that did not record a vote when put through the machines. Those ballots are re-examined to see whether the voter skipped the race or marked the ballot in a way that the machines cannot read but can be deciphered. The election will be certified Tuesday. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Pelosi says she has the votes to become the next House speaker By John Wagner Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi speaks during a news conference in Washington on Nov. 14. (Susan Walsh) House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi insisted Thursday that she has the votes to become the chambers speaker despite solid opposition from more than a dozen Democrats who want fresh leadership when the party takes control next year. I have overwhelming support in my caucus to be speaker of the House, the San Francisco lawmaker told reporters. I happen to think at this point, Im the best person for that. A vote within the Democratic caucus is scheduled for Nov. 28. The full House votes on Jan. 3 to elect a new speaker. During her remarks, Pelosi touted the size of the Democratic victory in the midterms, which she called almost a tsunami. With a few races still to be decided, Democrats are poised to pick up close to 40 seats in the chamber. Pelosi called that the biggest victory for the Democrats since 1974, when the Watergate babies came in. Pelosis comments come as she faces solid opposition from at least 17 Democrats, setting the stage for a battle over who will ascend to one of the most powerful positions in Washington. After a campaign in which some Democrats prevailed in competitive districts by promising to oppose her, a coalition of incumbents and newly elected members has denied her a smooth path to the speakership. The defections, if they stand, would leave Pelosi, who has led the Democrats for more than 15 years, several votes short of the 218 she would need when the full House votes for speaker Jan. 3. However, no Democrat has stepped forward to run against her for a job she held from 2007 through 2010. Rep. Marcia Fudge (D-Ohio) told reporters Wednesday that shes being encouraged to stand for speaker if Pelosi doesnt have the votes. In an interview with the Washington Post on Thursday, she said she has been overwhelmed by the support from many of her colleagues for her possible entry into the race for House speaker. Over the last 12 hours, Ive been overwhelmed by the amount of support Ive received, Fudge said, adding that there are probably closer to 30" Democrats who have privately signaled that they are willing to oppose Pelosi. Things could change rapidly, Fudge said. Fudge, 66, a former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, said she is building a diverse coalition as she mulls a speaker run, talking with allies in the caucus, moderate Democrats and newly elected members. To this point, Pelosi has enjoyed the strong backing of the Congressional Black Caucus. On Thursday, Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.), one of its members, wrote a letter to colleagues praising her insight, fortitude and strategic thinking and urging support for her speakership bid. Former Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr., an African American who is contemplating a 2020 presidential bid, also voiced support for Pelosi, praising her in a tweet as an architect of the recent midterm success. Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), a leader of the resistance to Pelosi, said during an interview on CNN on Thursday that Fudge is the kind of new leader that we need in this party. Shes in touch with middle America. She understands what the American people want. Shes a next-generation leader that people will look to and say, Thats the future of our party, thats the future of our country, and thats exactly the kind of leader that I want to see as our next speaker. Wagner reports for the Washington Post. The Posts Robert Costa, Erica Werner, Mike DeBonis, Paul Kane and Elise Viebeck contributed to this report. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement GOP Rep. Jeff Denham concedes to Democrat Josh Harder in Central Valley race By Maya Sweedler Rep. Jeff Denham (Bill Clark / CQ Roll Call) Republican Rep. Jeff Denham has conceded to Democrat Josh Harder in the race to represent Californias 10th Congressional District in the San Joaquin Valley. It has been an absolute honor to serve our community and represent the Central Valley in Congress over the past eight years, the 51-year-old congressman said. The enormity of the responsibility was never lost on me. My wife Sonia and I look forward to starting the next chapter of our lives. Harder said he had spoken with Denham and the two were committed to a productive transition. Denham, an Air Force veteran, previously represented the region in the state Senate for eight years and founded a company specializing in plastic packaging used in agriculture. While a member of Congress, he sat on the Transportation and Infrastructure, Veterans Affairs and Agriculture committees. First-time candidate Harder was born and raised in the district. After graduating from Stanford University, he served as vice president of a Silicon Valley venture capital firm. Since moving back, he has been teaching at Modesto Junior College. Denhams House seat is one of four in California that Republicans lost in the Nov. 6 election, with two contests in Orange County still undecided as of Thursday morning. Jeff Denham called me this morning and we had a very productive conversation. I'm honored that I've been chosen to serve our community in Congress, and we're both looking forward to a productive transition that best serves the people of District 10. Josh Harder (@JoshHarder) November 14, 2018 Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Democrat Katie Porter now nearly 3,800 votes ahead of GOP Rep. Mimi Walters By Maya Sweedler Rep. Mimi Walters thanks all of her supporters as she watches election results in Irvine on Nov. 7, 2018. (Alex Gallardo / Associated Press) Democrat Katie Porter opened a 3,797-vote lead Wednesday over Republican Rep. Mimi Walters in Orange Countys 45th Congressional District. In the neighboring 39th, Democrat Gil Cisneros has nearly tied the race against Republican Young Kim. Cisneros now trails Kim by a razor-thin margin of 122 votes. The 39th District straddles Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino counties; Wednesdays updated ballot counts came from the latter two. There are more than 202,000 ballots left to count in Orange County, which includes parts of seven congressional districts. The 45th is entirely in inland Orange County. In California, the ballots counted first tend to lean Republican and those tallied later skew Democratic. In the Central Valleys 21st Congressional District, Democratic challenger TJ Cox has pulled within 2 percentage points of Rep. David Valadao, who is serving his third term. The Associated Press had projected a win for Valadao on election night, but his 4,839-vote advantage has shrunk to 2,090. Back in CA-21, Valadao (R) wins a batch of ballots from his stronghold in Kings Co., but by a considerably smaller margin (14 points) than his previous ~30-point margin in the county. We're moving to Lean R from Likely R; today a bit scary for Valadao.https://t.co/WqJVUVkqGW Nate Silver (@NateSilver538) November 15, 2018 A spokesman for Valadao told the Fresno Bee that the changes were expected and that [s]tatistically, David Valadao has won this race. Democrats in California have already flipped four House seats, defeating three Republican incumbents and claiming an open seat previously held by the GOP. Reps. Steve Knight of Palmdale, Dana Rohrabacher of Costa Mesa and Jeff Denham of Turlock have already lost their races, and retiring Rep. Darrell Issas San Diego County seat was claimed by Democrat Mike Levin. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Trump aide departs West Wing after rebuke from Melania Trump By Associated Press First Lady Melania Trump. (Alain Jocard / AFP-Getty Images) Deputy national security advisor Mira Ricardel is leaving the White House, one day after First Lady Melania Trumps office issued an extraordinary statement calling for her dismissal. No replacement was named. Aides said Ricardel clashed with the first ladys staff over her visit to Africa last month. Yet it is highly unusual for a first lady or her office to weigh in on personnel matters, especially the presidents national security staff. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said Ricardel would have a new role in the administration. On Tuesday, Stephanie Grisham, the first ladys spokeswoman, released a statement saying, It is the position of the Office of the First Lady that she no longer deserves the honor of serving in this White House. President Trumps White House has set records for administration turnover. Ricardel was the third person to hold the post under Trump. An ally of national security advisor John Bolton, Ricardel began her service in the Trump administration as associate director in the White House Office of Presidential Personnel, then moved to the Commerce Department last year. Bolton brought her into the West Wing shortly after taking the job in April. He is traveling in Asia this week alongside Vice President Mike Pence. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Race for House Minority Leader is Kevin McCarthys to lose By Associated Press (Bill Clark / CQ Roll Call) House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy is running to take over next years shrunken caucus in closed-door elections that will set the tone for the new Congress. The race for minority leader is McCarthys to lose Wednesday. But the California Republican, who is an ally of President Trump, must fend off a challenge from conservative Jim Jordan of Ohio. Jordan is a leader of the House Freedom Caucus. The two encountered questions and finger-pointing during a private meeting with lawmakers Tuesday night as the GOP sorted through the midterm defeat that put Democrats in the majority next year. Elections Wednesday will also determine party leadership in the Senate. Voting for the biggest race, Nancy Pelosis bid to return as the Democrats nominee for speaker, is later this month. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Melania Trump calls for the firing of deputy national security advisor By Justin Sink First Lady Melania Trump arrives at the Chateau de Versailles outside Paris on Nov. 11. (Alain Jocard / AFP/Getty Images ) First Lady Melania Trumps office said she wants Mira Ricardel, the deputy national security advisor, ousted from the White House. It is the position of the Office of the First Lady that she no longer deserves the honor of serving in this White House, Trumps spokeswoman, Stephanie Grisham, said in a statement in response to a question about reports the first lady had sought Ricardels removal. Ricardel is the top deputy to national security advisor John Bolton. She drew the first ladys wrath after threatening to withhold National Security Council resources during Melania Trumps trip to Africa last month unless Ricardel was included in her entourage, one person familiar with the matter said. Grishams statement comes as several media outlets have reported that President Trump is considering a broader shakeup of his administration, including ousting Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen. Sink and Jacobs report for Bloomberg. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print CNN sues Trump over the suspension of Jim Acostas White House press credentials By Jim Puzzanghera CNN said Tuesday that it is suing President Trump and other administration officials over the decision to suspend the White House press credentials of correspondent Jim Acosta after a conflict at a news conference last week. The suit, to be filed in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, escalates an ongoing battle between Trump and the cable news outlet that he frequently accuses of disseminating fake news for its aggressive coverage of him and his administration. The wrongful revocation of these credentials violates CNN and Acostas 1st Amendment rights of freedom of the press, and their 5th Amendment rights to due process, CNN said in a written statement. If left unchallenged, the actions of the White House would create a dangerous chilling effect for any journalist who covers our elected officials. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Maxine Waters to take aim at Wells Fargo and Deutsche Bank as new head of House Financial Services Committee By Jim Puzzanghera Rep. Maxine Waters plans to zero in on two big banks Wells Fargo & Co. and Deutsche Bank when she becomes head of the powerful House Financial Services Committee. The Los Angeles congresswoman, now the committees top Democrat, is widely expected to gain the gavel after her party won control of the House in last weeks elections. While Waters has outlined a wide-ranging agenda, she said her focus on bank oversight will target two large institutions she has been tangling with for a while including one, Deutsche Bank, that spills into her bitter feud with President Trump. With Trump in the White House, I know that our fight for Americas consumers and investors will continue to be challenging. But I am more than up to that fight, Waters wrote in a letter last week to her Democratic colleagues on the committee that was obtained by The Times. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Heres how a controversial voting system will decide a congressional race in Maine By Kurtis Lee For the first time in U.S. history, a controversial voting system known as ranked choice is being used to decide a federal election. Its happening in Maine, which adopted the system in 2016. Rather than marking a single candidate, each voter ranks them all, assigning a first-place vote, a second-place vote and so on down the ballot. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print ACLU files suit to stop Trumps new asylum limits By Associated Press A group of Central American migrants march to the office of the U.N.'s humans rights body in Mexico City on Nov. 8. (Rebecca Blackwell / Associated Press) The American Civil Liberties Union has filed a legal challenge to President Trumps order denying asylum to migrants if they cross the U.S.-Mexico border illegally. The lawsuit was filed Friday in federal court in San Francisco and argues the new rules are against the law. Attorney Lee Gelernt said the regulations will put families in danger. The suit seeks to declare the regulations invalid and wants a judge to stop the rules from going into effect while the litigation is pending. The new rules were spurred in part by caravans of Central American migrants slowly moving north on foot, but officials say they will apply to anyone caught crossing illegally. Officials say about 70,000 people who enter the country illegally claim asylum. The order invoked the same national security powers Trump used to push through his travel ban. Read More Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Trump on new acting AG: I dont know Matt Whitaker By Associated Press President Trump talks with reporters before departing for France on the South Lawn of the White House on Nov. 9. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) President Trump is moving to distance himself from Matthew Whitaker as he faces criticism over his choice for acting attorney general. Trump told reporters Friday that I dont know Matt Whitaker and said he didnt speak with Whitaker about special counsel Robert Muellers Russia investigation. Whitaker has made public comments critical of Muellers investigation, and critics have called on Whitaker to recuse himself from oversight of the inquiry. Under former Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions, the investigation was overseen by Deputy Atty. Gen. Rod Rosenstein. Of the scrutiny Whitaker is facing, Trump said: Its a shame that no matter who I put in they go after. He also called Whitaker a very highly respected man. Whitaker was Sessions chief of staff before Trump made him Sessions interim replacement. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg out of hospital after fall By Associated Press The Supreme Court says 85-year-old Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is home after being released from the hospital. She had been admitted for treatment and observation after fracturing three ribs in a fall. The court said Ginsburg was released Friday. Supreme Court spokeswoman Kathy Arberg says she is doing well and working from home. The court had previously said the justice fell in her office at the court on Wednesday evening and went to George Washington University Hospital in Washington early Thursday after experiencing discomfort overnight. Ginsburg broke two ribs in a fall in 2012. She had two prior bouts with cancer and had a stent implanted to open a blocked artery in 2014. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Gun-control activist Lucy McBath defeats GOP Rep. Karen Handel in Georgia By Associated Press Lucy McBath speaks during a rally for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams on Nov. 2 at Morehouse College in Atlanta. (Alyssa Pointer / Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP) Democratic gun-control activist Lucy McBath has defeated Republican Rep. Karen Handel of Georgia in a suburban congressional district long considered safe for the GOP. Handel had to seek reelection after winning her seat last year in a close special election race against Democrat Jon Ossoff. McBath became an advocate for stricter gun laws after her son, Jordan Davis, was fatally shot at a Florida gas station in 2012 by a man angry over loud music the teenager and his friends were playing in a car. McBaths margin of victory was narrow enough for Handel to have requested a recount. The Associated Press declared McBath the winner Thursday after Handel conceded. Handel conceded in a statement Thursday morning, stating that after reviewing all of the election data, its clear she came up a bit short in Tuesdays vote. Handel congratulated McBath, offering good thoughts and much prayer for the journey that lies ahead for her. McBath, who is African American, declared victory Wednesday. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg hospitalized after fracturing 3 ribs in fall By Associated Press Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Jacquelyn Martin / Associated Press) The Supreme Court says 85-year-old Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg fractured three ribs in a fall in her office at the court and is in the hospital. The court says the justice went to George Washington University Hospital in Washington early Thursday after experiencing discomfort overnight. The court says the fall occurred Wednesday evening. Ginsburg was admitted to the hospital for treatment and observation after tests showed she fractured three ribs. Ginsburg broke two ribs in a fall in 2012. She has had two prior bouts with cancer and had a stent implanted to open a blocked artery in 2014. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print White House suspends press pass of CNNs Jim Acosta after heated exchange with Trump By Associated Press The White House on Wednesday suspended the press pass of CNN correspondent Jim Acosta after he and President Trump had a heated confrontation during a news conference. They began sparring after Acosta asked Trump about the caravan of migrants heading from Latin America to the southern U.S. border. When Acosta tried to follow up with another question, Trump said, Thats enough! and a female White House aide unsuccessfully tried to grab the microphone from Acosta. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders released a statement accusing Acosta of placing his hands on a young woman just trying to do her job as a White House intern, calling it absolutely unacceptable. The interaction between Acosta and the intern was brief, and Acosta appeared to brush her arm as she reached for the microphone and he tried to hold onto it. Pardon me, maam, he told her. Acosta tweeted that Sanders statement that he put his hands on the aide was a lie. CNN said in a statement that the White House revoked Acostas press pass in retaliation for his challenging questions Wednesday, and the network accused Sanders of lying about Acostas actions. This conduct is absolutely unacceptable. It is also completely disrespectful to the reporters colleagues not to allow them an opportunity to ask a question. President Trump has given the press more access than any President in history. Stephanie Grisham (@PressSec) November 8, 2018 Contrary to CNNs assertions there is no greater demonstration of the Presidents support for a free press than the event he held today. Only they would attack the President for not supporting a free press in the midst of him taking 68 questions from 35 different reporters... Stephanie Grisham (@PressSec) November 8, 2018 As a result of todays incident, the White House is suspending the hard pass of the reporter involved until further notice. Stephanie Grisham (@PressSec) November 8, 2018 Sanders provided fraudulent accusations and cited an incident that never happened. This unprecedented decision is a threat to our democracy and the country deserves better, CNN said. Jim Acosta has our full support. Journalists assigned to cover the White House apply for passes that allow them daily access to press areas in the West Wing. White House staffers decide whether journalists are eligible, though the Secret Service determines whether their applications are approved. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Trump spars with reporters at post-election news briefing, ordering several to sit down By Associated Press President Trump assails CNNs Jim Acosta at a White House news conference. President Trump sparred with reporters at his post-election news conference, ordering several to sit down and telling another hes a rude, terrible person. He told another reporter hes not a fan of yours, either. The presidents mood turned sour Wednesday after reporters pressed him on why he referred to a migrant caravan making its way to the U.S. on foot through Mexico as an invasion. Trump ramped up his anti-immigrant rhetoric against the caravan in the final days of the midterm elections. Trump was also pressed on why his campaign aired an ad featuring a Mexican immigrant convicted of killing American police officers and linking the mans actions to the caravan. Several television networks pulled the ad after airing it or declined to air it at all. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Im living one hour at a time at this point By Christine Mai-Duc Republican congressional candidate Young Kim and gubernatorial candidate John Cox campaign in Rowland Heights. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Republican congressional candidate Young Kim greeted gubernatorial candidate John Coxs giant campaign bus, the words HELP IS ON THE WAY emblazoned across it, as it rolled into the parking lot outside her Rowland Heights field office. Standing beside Cox on Saturday, Kim predicted that a string of GOP victories Tuesday would start with voters repealing the gas tax hike. Can you imagine Gavin Newsom being our governor? Can you imagine Gil Cisneros being your representative? Kim asked the crowd, to loud boos and cries of Nooo! The former state assemblywoman who worked for retiring Rep. Ed Royce (R-Fullerton) is vying for his seat with Democrat Gil Cisneros. She led the crowd in chants of Enough is enough! and, though short-lived, Drain the swamp! Ive served you in Sacramento and Ive seen dysfunction personally, Kim continued. We cannot continue that route. She urged her supporters to stay and help make phone calls or walk neighborhoods. Lets get out there the 72 hours is really critical. Its all going to come down to a few votes, it could be your vote, she said pointing to her left, then pivoting right, it could be your vote. So dont sit back and do nothing. Every night I go to sleep thinking, OK, how many more votes can I get or how many more people can I call tomorrow? Kim said. It can be physically exhausting but Im mentally, emotionally very energized. She listed off her events so far that day and the next one she was heading to. Thats just what I can remember, she said. Im living one hour at a time at this point. Kims campaign invited press to two of her events on Saturday. After she was whisked away to her next event a high tea fundraiser in Walnut, a couple dozen volunteers remained. John Freeman, a statewide field manager for the state Republican Party, tried to pump them up. This is the Super Bowl. Were not in an NFL stadium, were not getting paid millions of dollars, but you know what? Freeman said. Were walking on the field right now. This is that high-stakes-level game. Facebook Twitter Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Copy Link URL Copied! Print Advertisement Its going to be tough out there Democratic candidate Katie Porter speaks to volunteers in Mission Viejo. Jon Bauman, Bowzer from the band Sha Na Na, is in the background. (Victoria Kim / Los Angeles Times ) Judging from the cheers in the crowd, about half those assembled at Katie Porters campaign headquarters in Mission Viejo Sunday morning were old enough to remember 70s rock n roll star Bowzer from the band Sha Na Na. Jon Bauman, as Bowzer is known off stage, said it was her position on senior issues including retirement and social security that has him out supporting Porter over her opponent, incumbent Rep. Mimi Walters. I want you to make sure every phone is called and every door is knocked, he told the crowd of about 80 volunteers. There has never been a more important election. Both Bauman and his nephew, California Democratic Party Chairman Eric Bauman, were interrupted by yells from Trump supporters coming from an adjoining hillside. We love Trump, the voice cried out. We love him too, he makes great fodder, the younger Bauman retorted, before introducing Porter. Porter, a UC Irvine law professor and first-time candidate, acknowledged the uphill battle some of her canvassers might face in this more conservative end of the long-red Orange County district. I know its going to be tough out there, she said, motioning to the hillside. But she said the attacks meant the other side viewed her campaign as a significant threat. This election is going to be close, she said. If we dont fight all the way to the finish line, until 8 oclock on Tuesday, this could slip away. Bowzer then took to a keyboard piano to lead the crowd in a reworded rendition of the song Good Night Sweetheart: Good night, Mimi Walters, he crooned. A woman in a black tank top, jeans and flip flops holding a cup of coffee later joined the crowd with her two sons, 17 and 14, the younger one wearing a Trump 2016 T-shirt. She declined to give her name, saying she was concerned about being attacked, but said she lived up the hill and said she had been the one yelling. She said she was encouraging her sons to talk to people on both sides and make up their own minds. We need to have a government that runs the way government teachers are telling kids its supposed to be run, said the woman, a retired registered dental assistant who voted early for Mimi Walters. Referring to Democrats, she said: Theyve had control over all these years and Californias gone to crap. Among those canvassing was Stacie Campbell, 37, who was at the launch with her husband Jerome and three children, the youngest of whom was 2 months old. Campbell, a Mission Viejo resident who runs a business, had never canvassed or volunteered for campaigns before, and her husband is a French citizen and unable to vote. She said they had been talking to their children the older ones are 5 and 2 about the presidency and the government since Trumps election. Together, they worked on homemade Katie Porter lawn signs and put them up around town. This is the first time its felt like a big deal and there isnt a president up for election, she said. Because her city is a mix of conservatives and liberals her next-door neighbor is an NRA-supporting Republican she the race felt m The FBI investigation of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaughs alleged sexual assault generated new schisms among Republicans on Tuesday as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell pushed for a vote on the nomination this week. The White House decision to order a one-week FBI investigation, after several Republican senators threatened to withhold support for the embattled nominee, was intended to restore confidence in a confirmation process that has been scrambled by multiple allegations of Kavanaughs sexual misconduct and heavy drinking decades ago. But the FBI inquiry has generated another round of confusion and acrimony, with disputes over what evidence will become public, how long the probe will last, and what topics it will cover. It comes in the wake of an explosive Senate Judiciary Committee hearing last Thursday that saw Kavanaugh vehemently deny Christine Blasey Fords allegation that he attacked her when they were high school students. Fords lawyers, Michael Bromwich and Debra Katz, sent a letter to FBI Director Christopher A. Wray on Tuesday saying they had received no response on her offer to cooperate with the investigation. Advertisement It is inconceivable that the FBI could conduct a thorough investigation of Dr. Fords allegations without interviewing her, Judge Kavanaugh or the witnesses we have identified in our letters to you, the lawyers wrote. President Trump stoked what has become a searingly divisive debate on Tuesday night when, before a political rally of thousands in Mississippi, he went beyond defending Kavanaugh to mocking the accuser, Ford. Just days ago, hed praised her as a very credible witness. For an extended time, to his audiences laughter and applause, Trump feigned the voices of Ford and a senator interrogating her. Mimicking Ford, he said, I had one beer! Playing the senator, he then asked how she got home, how she got to the house where she was allegedly attacked, where is it? To each question, Trump-as-Ford answered, I dont remember! and finally she objects, But I had 1 beer! Thats the only thing I remember! In fact, Ford has testified in detail to what she alleges was Kavanaughs attempt to rape her and her fear that he would suffocate her before she was able to escape. Two other women have publicly accused Kavanaugh, who sits on the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, of sexual misconduct. He has denied their allegations as well. In addition to Ford, Deborah Ramirez has said Kavanaugh exposed himself in her face while they were Yale classmates. Julie Swetnick signed an affidavit saying that when they were teenagers, Kavanaugh and his friends would try to get girls drunk at parties so they could then be gang raped, and that Kavanaugh was present when she was one of the victims. FBI agents spoke with Ramirez on Sunday, according to her lawyer, John Clune. He said the agents didnt appear to be pursuing her tips about people who might corroborate her allegation. We have great concern that the FBI is not conducting or not being permitted to conduct a serious investigation, Clune tweeted. Michael Avenatti, Swetnicks lawyer, said she had not spoken to the FBI either. The FBI has interviewed Tim Gaudette, according to his attorney. Gaudette says that as a high school classmate, he hosted a party noted on Kavanaughs 1982 calendar that included several people Ford identified as being present on the night she was assaulted. McConnell (R-Ky.) said Tuesday that he was determined to bring the matter to a close as quickly as possible, declaring: The Senate will vote on Judge Kavanaugh here on this floor this week. Under Senate rules, the earliest the Senate could hold a preliminary vote on Kavanaugh is Friday, with a final vote on Saturday.Background check investigations by the FBI are generally kept confidential, and McConnell said that will likely remain the case for Kavanaugh as well. Well get an FBI report soon. Itll be made available to each senator, and only senators will be allowed to look at it, he said. Thats the way these reports are always handled. That would likely disappoint some other Republican senators, many of whom see the dispute as a potential fault line as they head into the November elections. I dont anticipate us voting before we know the results of the report, everybodys had a chance to review the report and the American people know whats in the report, said Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), who supports the nominee. That would be my preference. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), another supporter, said senators should be allowed time to read the notes of the FBI agents who conduct the interviews, and at least some of the information should be released. I think its important that the results in some form be shared with the public, he said. Democrats also pushed for release of the FBI report, as well as a wider investigation into Kavanaugh. They also called for sufficient time to review the report before voting. The FBI must not be handcuffed and their results must be made public, said Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.). Senate Judiciary Chairman Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa) chided Democrats, saying they were trying to interfere in the investigation. Im confident that the FBI agents tasked with this responsibility will not succumb to public political pressure or politicians telling the agency how to do its job, he said in a statement. Respectfully, the career public servants and professionals at the FBI know what theyre doing and how best to conduct a background investigation. Its not yet known what it will take to satisfy the three Republican senators Jeff Flake of Arizona, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine who joined Democrats in calling for an FBI investigation. The full Senate was originally expected to vote on Kavanaughs nomination early this week, but McConnell agreed to a delay under pressure after Thursdays hearing led to a public outcry and pushback from the three Republicans who can determine whether he is approved by the narrowly divided body. Flake last week described the FBI investigation as a key step toward ensuring the American public maintains confidence in the nations highest court. On Tuesday, he suggested he had additional reservations about Kavanaugh, expressing concern about the judges angry tone while responding to questions from Democrats at last weeks Senate hearing. I told my wife, I hope that I would sound that indignant if I felt I was unjustly maligned, Flake said at a forum sponsored by the Atlantic magazine. But then it went on. And the interaction with the members was sharp and partisan, and that concerns me. I tell myself, you give a little leeway because of what hes been through. But on the other hand, we cant have this on the court. Trump, who nominated Kavanaugh in July, told reporters he had no reservations about the judges behavior at the hearing. I think he was fighting people that were making very tough charges against him and I thought he did very well, Trump said, calling Kavanaugh a high-quality person and a top intellect. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who has become one of the nominees most outspoken defenders on Capitol Hill, said Trump should renominate Kavanaugh next year if he fails to win Senate approval. It would in effect be appealing the Senates verdict directly to the American people, Graham said in a statement on Tuesday. The midterm elections are only 35 days away and a new group of senators may view Judge Kavanaughs nomination very differently after hearing from the voters in their states. FBI background reports on Supreme Court nominees are typically not released, in part because they contain confidential information. They are stored in a safe on Capitol Hill and only a few staff members have access, said Gregg Nunziata, former chief nominations counsel to Senate Judiciary Committee Republicans. This is not an ad hoc process that was invented for this nomination, he said. The only thing different about this is it is public and it is in the press. Sometimes portions of the reports can become public. In 1991, Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-Utah) read from the FBI report into Anita Hills allegations that she was sexually harassed by Clarence Thomas, whom President George H.W. Bush had nominated by to the Supreme Court. Thomas was later confirmed. The latest delay has given Kavanaughs political opponents and reporters more time to dig into his background, something Republicans were hoping to avoid when they agreed to the FBI investigation. The New York Times obtained a 1985 police report, for example, that said Kavanaugh was questioned after a bar fight in New Haven, Conn., where he attended Yale University. Kavanaugh was accused of throwing ice at another person at the bar. Chad Ludington, a college classmate, had hinted at the incident in an earlier statement and suggested Kavanaugh was not being truthful about his drinking. I can unequivocally say that in denying the possibility that he ever blacked out from drinking, and in downplaying the degree and frequency of his drinking, Brett has not told the truth, Ludington told CNN. Several other people from Kavanaughs past came forward to defend him. I never saw Brett black out or not be able to remember the prior evenings events, nor did I ever see Brett act aggressive, hostile, or in a sexually aggressive manner to women, Dan Murphy, who lived with Kavanaugh at Yale, said in a statement. Whether or not the FBI report becomes public, the investigation is unlikely to provide the clarity that partisans on both sides of the aisle say they want. Michael B. Mukasey, who served as attorney general under President George W. Bush, said agents dont reach a definitive conclusion after conducting a series of interviews for a background check. They are not looking to make determinations of credibility or what absolute facts are, Mukasey said. He added, The background investigation doesnt draw conclusions. It provides the statement of witnesses. Staff writer Jackie Calmes contributed to this report. Follow the latest news of the Trump administration on Essential Washington Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell heads to the Senate floor to speak about the Kavanaugh nomination on Tuesday. (Shawn Thew / EPA-EFE/REX) chris.megerian@latimes.com Twitter: @chrismegerian UPDATES: 7:30 p.m.: This article was updated to add that the FBI has interviewed Kavanaughs high school classmate Tim Gaudette, who says he had a party that matched the nominees calendar and Fords description of who was there when she was assaulted. 7:10 p.m.: This article was updated with Trumps mocking of Ford at a Mississippi rally. This article was originally published at 4:20 p.m. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on Wednesday night started the clock for Senate confirmation of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, with a preliminary vote set for Friday and a final vote on Saturday. The move came as the FBI completed its report into sexual assault allegations against Kavanaugh. Senators are expected to begin reading the report Thursday, under tight security and strict rules. Kavanaughs fate remains unclear because three GOP Republicans are undecided: Sens. Jeff Flake of Arizona, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska. Several Democrats are also said to be wavering. McConnell needs at least two of three undecided Republicans, assuming all Senate Democrats oppose Kavanaughs nomination. Advertisement Kavanaugh was initially set to face a Senate vote earlier this week, but the three Republicans abruptly joined Democrats on Friday in demanding an FBI inquiry into allegations by California professor Christine Blasey Ford, who accused Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her when both were in high school in 1982. He has denied the allegations. President Trump gave the FBI a week to look into the matter and said publicly that the law enforcement agency had free rein. But Democrats accused the administration of restricting the probe behind the scenes. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) on Wednesday criticized the FBI for not speaking with either Kavanaugh or Ford. She also complained that the FBI did not talk to witnesses identified by Deborah Ramirez, who also accused Kavanaugh of assault in the 1980s. The lack of interviews raises serious concerns that this is not a credible investigation and begs the question: What other restrictions has the White House placed on the FBI? Feinstein said. Last weeks hearing is no substitute for FBI interviews, especially when you consider the tenor of Judge Kavanaughs testimony. The White House hasnt said what, if any, restrictions were placed on the FBI probe. Fords lawyers confirmed as of Wednesday afternoon that she had not been contacted by the FBI. Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) said he would have expected the FBI to use the entire week it was afforded. Sen. Joe Manchin (D- W.V.), one of the few Democrats who remain undecided, said the FBI report would be instrumental in his decision. Im going to read whatever theyve got, Manchin said Wednesday. I want to see the first thing first. Before I start jumping in, let me just read what they have and well go from there. Once the report which is typically confidential is given to the Senate, all senators will be able to access it in a secure room. Two Senate staff members say the current plan is to have separate times for Democrats and Republicans. There is debate on Capitol Hill as to whether all or some of the report should be made public. A key part of Flakes drive to push for an FBI probe was to have a more transparent public process. Other Republicans have voiced similar concern. Im of the view that whatever could be made public should be, but that would be well outside the normal way these things are treated, said Sen. Roy Bunt (R-Mo.). McConnell said Tuesday that the report should not become public. Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats sent a letter on Wednesday to Sen. Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa), chair of the committee, calling for bipartisan ground rules for how the FBI report can be discussed, expressing concern that there will be an effort to publicly mischaracterize or selectively leak its contents. The Democrats pointed to a Tuesday tweet from the committees Republican staff saying that there was never a whiff of ANY issue involving alcohol abuse or sexual misbehavior in six previous FBI background checks on Kavanaugh. While we are limited in what we can say about this background investigation in a public setting, we are compelled to state for the record that there is information in the tweet that is not accurate, the Democrats wrote in their letter without providing details. Republicans called the Democrats letter baseless innuendo. The temperature around the nomination rose Tuesday evening after Trump mocked Ford, a Palo Alto University professor, during a campaign rally. He mimicked her dramatic testimony last week, emphasizing her inability to remember certain details and suggesting she drank more than she claimed. What neighborhood was it in? I dont know. Wheres the house? I dont know. Upstairs. Downstairs. I dont know. But I had one beer, thats the only thing I remember, Trump said, as the Mississippi audience laughed and applauded. All three undecided Republicans condemned Trumps remarks. Flake called them appalling, while Murkowski said it was unacceptable and Collins calling the presidents actions wrong. The White House insisted Trump was merely restating facts, although Ford had conclusively said the assault happened upstairs and remembered many other details vividly. Asked if Trump was worried that his comments would jeopardize votes from swing Republican senators, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said no. I dont think so. The president is very confident in his nominee, as hes stated time and time again, and we expect the Senate to vote, and we hope they do that soon, she said. The FBIs supplemental investigation began Friday night after an official request from the Senate Judiciary Committee and an order from the White House. Agents spoke with Mark Judge, a friend of Kavanaughs who Ford said was in the room when she was assaulted. He had previously submitted a statement denying the incident but had resisted appearing before the committee. Also interviewed was Tim Gaudette, a high school classmate of Kavanaugh. According to Kavanaughs 1982 calendar, he hosted a party that included several people that Ford identified as being present on the night she was assaulted. Agents were also apparently willing to let the statements made under the penalty of perjury by Ford and Kavanaugh to the committee to stand without further questioning. The latest from Washington jennifer.haberkorn@latimes.com @jenhab UPDATES: 7:05 p.m.: The story was updated after the Senate set a vote. 5:40 p.m.: The story was updated with new information. The story was originally published at 11 a.m. Business Life magazine honored another group of dedicated women during the publications 29th annual Women Achievers luncheon. Hundreds of community members and leaders gathered at the Castaway restaurant in Burbank on Monday to recognize 28 women for their contributions to their professions and community. This years Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Lynn White-Shelby for her over 50 years of community involvement, which includes the PTA at Balboa Elementary School in Glendale and Hoover High School Booster Club in Glendale, as well as the Glendale National Charity League. White-Shelby, who has been previously recognized by Business Life, currently serves on the Burbank Senior Citizen Board and the La Providencia Guild of Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. You need the support of your family first, then your friends the people who you want to be with and want to be with you, she said, describing what it takes to be successful. Probably the most important thing is that you need happiness in your heart. For success, you need to find happiness, and I found my happiness in volunteering through all these years. Another past honoree, Glendale Chamber of Commerce president and chief executive Judee Kendall, was recognized during the event and named as this years Leadership Honoree. Kendall, who for many years was the publisher of the Burbank Leader, Glendale News-Press and what was then the Foothill Leader, said women are strong individuals who need to be recognized for their work, no matter what type of work that may be. Being a woman, I know what were capable of and it should be accepted, she said. Every single woman has achievements every day no matter what theyre doing. Theyre taking care of families, working and serving organizations and nonprofits. Its wonderful to see them recognized and honored by the community. Gloria Salas, president of the Zonta Club of Burbank Area, was also an honoree. She said that any time a woman is able to have an impact on her community, such as provide scholarships for younger girls or leading a march for or against something, she is acting as a role model for future generations. Its showing them that we have a voice and the abilities to go forward and achieve what we want, that we shouldnt just sit back and let somebody else do it, Salas said. Another honoree, Maria Maldonado, owner of Providence Realty Co. and the Filipino American Business Assn. of Glendale, said it is important for women from all backgrounds to stay determined. Being independent and having self-determination makes us stronger and successful, she said. Sona Ashjian, a microbiologist for the Armenia Bone Marrow Donor Registry and the medical focus program coordinator at Providence High School in Burbank, was also one of the local women honored. She has helped bring awareness about the registry, which has more than 29,000 donors from 29 countries, according to her biography in the event program. Business Life also honored Jennifer Schultz-Bertolet, president of the property management organization David N. Schultz Inc. Her father, who the business is named after, was her mentor and taught her to put the clients best interests first, her biography stated. Irene Bourdon, president of the Adventist Health Glendale Foundation, was also recognized during the event. She said her goal is to advance the hospitals mission of providing excellent quality of care. Deborah Simpkins Bright, vice president and co-owner of Arnol Salon & Spa in Glendale, was also honored by Business Life. She volunteers her time to several organizations, including the Adventist Health Founders Guild Board, the Play to Learn Center in Eagle Rock, Operation Gratitude in Chatsworth and the board of the Campbell Center in Glendale, according to her biography. A Burbank honoree, Renee Johnson, property manager of the Burbank Senior Apartments for the Cusumano Real Estate Group, was also honored this year. She said her goal is to help her tenants to thrive and live independently. Taleen Khatchadourian, board president of the Armenian Autism Outreach Project and board adviser to the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry, was honored for her work to help build up the donor registry, according to the program biographies. Burbank Chamber of Commerce Chairwoman Gema Sanchez was another local honoree, who was recognized for her work with the organization and helping businesses grow. Pamela Spiszman, founder, president and chief executive of Pegasus Home Health Care Inc., was honored for her work in the community, by developing a business that aims to treat patients with dignity, according to her biography. Burbank Vice Mayor Sharon Springer was also an honoree this year. She was recognized for contributions on the Sustainable Burbank Commission, the Burbank Water and Power board and Burbank Farmers Market board. Charlene Tabet, a member of the Burbank Unified school board, was honored by Business Life for her contributions to the school district. Sandra Thompson, president of the National Federation of Business and Professional Womens Clubs Inc., was recognized for the work that the organizations local chapter has done, which includes helping pass legislation that benefits women, her biography states. Glendale honoree Kathryn Van Houten, president of Soroptimist International of Glendale, was honored for her organizations goal of providing education and opportunities for women. Jane A. Viar, a member of the Glendale Library Foundation and Glendale Police Foundation, was recognized for helping others find access to future educational and employment opportunities, according to her biography. Lara Yeretsian, a criminal defense attorney and founder of Yeretsian Law in Glendale, was honored for her contributions in the legal field. anthonyclark.carpio@latimes.com Twitter: @acocarpio Fourteen candidates campaigning for four available seats on the Huntington Beach City Council agreed during a candidates forum Monday that the city needs to be maintained as a suburban beach town. The Huntington Beach Coordinating Council presented the forum at the Murdy Park recreation center, where 14 of the 15 candidates shared their plans if elected Nov. 6. Local lawyer Charles CJ Ray was absent. In a fashion similar to a candidates forum in Sunset Beach in September, candidates were given about four minutes each to discuss their visions for the city. All the candidates addressed hot-button issues that have dominated this years forums, such as high-density development and homelessness. Darren Ellis, a business owner, said high-density development isnt meant for the beach community but that fourplexes and eightplexes could be located in common-sense places. Huntington Beach isnt a metropolis that can just expand forever, Ellis said. We do have borders and have to be conscious [that] only so many people and so much traffic can be handled here. It gets to the point where quality of life is affected. Dan Kalmick, a city planning commissioner, proposed amending the local zoning code to address high-density development and help make Huntington look how residents want. Incumbent Erik Peterson, the current mayor pro tem, said he would use a common sense approach by listening to residents and collaborating with developers for infrastructure that best suits Surf City. Huntington Beach City Council candidate Ron Sterud speaks during a candidates forum Monday. (Kevin Chang / Staff Photographer) Ron Sterud, vice chairman of the city Finance Commission, said he and Peterson are the only candidates with a perfect track record of fighting high-density development throughout Huntington Beach. He cited his opposition to a proposal to build a hotel on the site of Hilltop Liquor in a residential area. Incumbent Mike Posey, the current mayor, said that under his leadership in an effort to retain local control, the council directed City Attorney Michael Gates to investigate ways to exempt the city from Senate Bill 35, which went into effect in January. The state law forces cities that are behind on their housing goals to streamline certain housing projects by eliminating some steps in the approval process. Posey also said he would go to Sacramento in two weeks to seek funding for the citys Homeless Task Force. Incumbent Billy OConnell discussed some of his accomplishments before and during his council term. Some people talk, some people think and some people tell, OConnell said. Ive done it, Im doing it and continue to do for you. He talked of how he founded the nonprofit Colettes Childrens Home, which has helped more than 4,000 homeless women and children get off the streets. He said he also has a record of voting against high-density development in residential areas. Incumbent Barbara Delgleize addresses the audience during a Huntington Beach City Council candidates forum on Monday. (Kevin Chang / Staff Photographer) Incumbent Barbara Delgleize said she wants to serve another term to help hire more police officers, continue working on plans to address homelessness and help maintain the citys 77 parks. New candidates such as Brian Burley and Kim Carr pledged their support for residents. Burley, an information technology analyst, said he would stand up against special-interest groups and urged voters to read the 30-year budget he drafted for Huntington, which addresses issues such as rising employee pensions. Carr shared how a council member seven years ago helped her after she got the runaround when a sleepy storage container business became a construction staging area behind her home. Its imperative to have people on the City Council who listen to our residents, respond to our residents and take action, Carr said. Longtime resident Don DK Kennedy said the council is making headway on complex issues such as sober-living homes but that he believes it has been complacent. Amory Hanson, the youngest candidate at age 21, said one of his goals is to create a cultural and community center. Shayna Lathus, a teacher in the Santa Ana Unified School District, told of her involvement with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and St. Baldricks Foundation, a childhood cancer charity. Lathus said she wants to work with surrounding communities to provide services for the homeless population. As a middle school teacher, I know how to get people together who dont always want to work together, and thats something Im going to bring to the table if Im a City Council member, Lathus said. Kevin KC Fockler, a retired teacher and former businessman, said his vision is to put the town back in Surf City by focusing on young people, recruiting technology-based businesses and helping public safety officials. Michael Simons, a longtime Huntington Beach Union High School District trustee, said his experience on the school board would serve him well if elected to the council. How do you come to an agreement and move the city forward? he said. Ive done that at the high school district to try and build consensus. Priscella.Vega@latimes.com Twitter: @vegapriscella Fans of the Orange County culinary community honored their favorites Sunday, with a Costa Mesa-based chef taking home the top prize. The seventh annual Golden Foodie Awards at the Newport Beach Marriott Hotel & Spa honored Noah von Blom of Arc Food & Libations with its Chef of the Year Award. Winners were chosen by popular vote. Nominees were required to be from independent restaurants. Winners likened the golden statues, which feature a figure holding a covered tray, to the Academy Awards of their industry. Von Blom, who also operates Arc Pizza House and the Guild Club in Costa Mesa, runs the establishments alongside his wife, Marin. The duo is known for the wood-fire cooking at Arc, which opened in 2013. They are also opening Arc Butcher & Baker in Newport Beach this fall. Olea staffers Russ Bendel, Gabe Whorley and Kyle Simpson celebrate winning Best New Restaurant of the Year. (Photo by Spencer Grant) In his brief acceptance speech, Von Blom thanked his staff and wife, who writes their menus and designs their restaurants. The Blind Rabbit, a speakeasy-style bar that opened in Anaheims Packing District in 2015, took home the most awards from a single establishment, with three: Bartender of the Year (Lynette Lim), Best Bar Program and Best Cocktails. In her acceptance speech, Lim said, Every last cocktail we serve is made with love. Robert Adamson of The Blind Rabbit won both Best Bar Program and Best Cocktails. At left is his wife, Ying Chang. Presenters were Michael Cho, right, and Tina Borgatta. (Photo by Spencer Grant) The other winners were: Selanne Steak Tavern (Laguna Beach), Best Wine Program Provisions Market (Orange), Best Beer Program Olea (Newport Beach), Best New Restaurant Taco Rosa (Irvine, Newport Beach), Best Lunch Spot Taps Fish House & Brewery (Brea, Irvine, Corona), Best Brunch Ross Pangilinan (Mix Mix Kitchen Bar of Santa Ana, and Terrace by Mix Mix of Costa Mesa), Rising Star Chef of the Year Dave Hanna (Hannahs Restaurant and Bar, Rancho Santa Margarita), Outstanding Community Service Javier Cuadra (Urbana Mexican Gastronomy and Mixology, Anaheim), Restaurateur of the Year The Ranch Restaurant and Saloon (Anaheim), Best Dessert Prime rib at the Summit House Restaurant (Fullerton), Best Entree Connie Aboubakare (OC Comestibles), Favorite Food Influencer The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar (Newport Beach, Tustin, La Jolla), Best Service Award Jamon Harper (Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point), Pastry Chef of the Year Prior to the awards ceremony, which was held in a ballroom decked out with dynamic blue and purple lighting, hundreds of guests ate and drank in the Marriotts courtyard. AnQi, Baja Shellfish Farms, Urbana Mexican Gastronomy, Cambalache and other Orange County restaurants served samples. Event proceeds benefit the Laguna Niguel-based Golden Rule Charity, which helps hospitality industry workers in times of need. Food Network star Simon Majumbar served as co-host alongside Neil Saavedra of The Fork Report on KFI AM-640. The Los Angeles Times, which owns and publishes Times OC, sponsored the event. Chef Linda Johnsen offers Chiu Wang a confection at the Filomenas Restaurant table. Manny, left, and Santiago Filomena smile. (Photo by Spencer Grant) A sign for Artsakh Avenue formerly a stretch of Maryland Avenue was unveiled Tuesday morning during a street naming ceremony hosted by the city of Glendale. The event drew officials from near and far: All five Glendale City Council members were present, in addition to state Sen. Anthony Portantino and Robert Avetisyan, a U.S. representative for Artsakh, which is a contested republic between Armenia and Azerbaijan. In June, the City Council voted 4-0 to rename a two-block section of Maryland Avenue, between Wilson Avenue and Harvard Street, to Artsakh Avenue. During the decision-making process, Councilman Ara Najarian said it was overdue to have a street referencing the citys large Armenian-American community. Approval of the name change followed months of heated debate between stakeholders including business owners, Glendale residents and Unified Young Armenians, a group of activists who proposed the name change in February. To address business owners concerns that the name change will adversely affect them, the city set aside $1,000 for each of the 131 businesses on the two-block portion of the street to help cover costs of reprinting materials with new addresses. Businesses can apply for the money as a grant. lila.seidman@latimes.com Twitter: @lila_seidman Glendale officials defended the citys water rate system in an appeal Tuesday of a February 2017 court ruling that determined the city overcharged residential ratepayers while unlawfully subsidizing its own rates, violating state law. We can have flat water rates, but we dont have to, Michael G. Colantuono, attorney for city, told a three-judge panel in the 2nd District Court of Appeal, explaining why the city went with a tiered system that charged heavier consumers more than efficient users. [The city] went with a conservation approach, Colantuono said during oral argument. The Glendale Coalition for Better Government, a watchdog group that filed a lawsuit on the matter in 2014, said the issue wasnt the tiered system, but the fact that the divisions were results-driven. Theres no recognized method for what they did, the coalitions co-counsel Eric Benink said. As a result, the system violates Proposition 218, passed by voters across the state in 1996. It mandates pricing be based on analysis of cost. According to the city, the rates were based on a water rate study conducted in 2014, in addition to past data and projections. Ultimately, local officials have latitude in making rate determinations, Colantuono argued. These are all judgment calls, he said. L.A. County Superior Court Judge James Chalfant ruled last year that the rates violated the state Constitution, in part because they were not based on the proportional cost of delivering water, but rather on issues benefiting the city. Besides charging single-family residences more than irrigation-category customers for outdoor water use, the city put itself into a commercial category that enjoyed a lower peak-use rate relative to its own usage, according to the courts tentative decision invalidating the water rates. The court also agreed with the coalitions claims that the city inappropriately used water customers payments to fund fire-protection services, which it argued is also prohibited by a portion of Prop 218. Prop 218 states that no fees or charges can be imposed on property owners for governmental services that the general public enjoys in the same fashion, including fire service. In its appeal, the city argued that fire service is actually a water service that was designed primarily for property protection, evidenced by the fact that fire hydrants are located strategically near structures. We dont turn fire hoses on people. We dont turn fire hoses on cars We turn fire hoses on structures, Colantuono said. Associate Justice Carl Moor said the issue turned on whether the service was provided to the public and property owners in a substantially similar manner. Benink responded that it did. [The service] protects people and property within those structures, he said. The coalition prevailed in a different case against the city in January 2017, when Judge Chalfant decided that the city must repay nearly $57 million for violating Proposition 26 for an unauthorized transfer of funds from its utilities to the General Fund. That case is also up on appeal before the 2nd District court. A story on that case will be available on glendalenewspress.com later this week. lila.seidman@latimes.com Twitter: @lila_seidman Since the dawn of life on our planet, 3.7 billion years ago, nature has used the power of evolution to create a vast diversity of molecules with an ever-increasing array of chemical capabilities. The Royal Swedish Academy of Science awarded the 2018 Nobel Prize in chemistry Wednesday to three scientists who have harnessed that power and sped it up, allowing them to create never-before-seen chemical reactions in a process called directed evolution. Claes Gustafsson, chairman of the 2018 Nobel Committee for Chemistry, called their work a revolution in evolution. Our laureates have applied the principles of Darwin in the test tube and used this approach to develop new types of chemicals for the great benefit of humankind, he said. Frances Arnold, a La Canada Flintridge resident of 17 years and biochemical engineer at Caltech, was awarded one half of the $1.01-million prize for conducting the first directed evolution experiments in 1993. Her work has led to the creation of more environmentally friendly ways of making drugs, agricultural chemicals and fuels, among other products. The other half was split between George P. Smith of the University of Missouri in Columbia and Gregory P. Winter of the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, England. Smith came up with a new way to evolve proteins using viruses that infect bacteria, and Winter used it to create antibodies with the goal of producing new medicines. Without this method, known as phage display, people with rheumatoid arthritis would not have the drug Humira, and patients with systemic lupus would not be able to take Benlysta, to name a few examples. Arnold, 62, said the phone call from Stockholm had her bouncing off the walls. But it came with a measure of annoyance because she was traveling in Texas and couldnt rouse her family in California to share the news. They never answer the phone when Mom calls, she said. I cant wait to get home and tell my sons. In the 80s, after President Ronald Reagan was elected and federal research funding priorities changed, Arnold became interested in biofuels research and received a doctorate in chemical engineering at UC Berkeley, where she was exposed to emerging breakthroughs in DNA research. Arnold said her training in mechanical engineering was an advantage when she began tinkering with proteins. I was able to look at the problem with a totally fresh set of eyes, she said. I realized that the way most people were going about protein engineering was doomed to failure. Arnold said her work on directed evolution began, in part, in a fit of desperation. I was an assistant professor at Caltech, which has lofty aspirations for doing really important work, and I was pretty clueless, she told the L.A. Times two years ago, 30 years after she arrived at the university. I didnt know how to make proteins. So I started doing lots of experiments simultaneously, and I realized thats exactly what nature does. Harvey Blanch, a professor of biochemical engineering at UC Berkeley who was Arnolds thesis advisor there, said her experiments have fundamentally changed the way scientists think about working with enzymes. Prior to Frances work, the idea of how to make an enzyme better was based on the concept that you have to really understand the details of what the enzyme is doing, and know everything about its structure, he said Wednesday. What Arnold did was mix in the element of randomness that is the cornerstone of natural evolution. It was an important conceptual approach, he said. By doing what nature does, you can get the job done much more quickly. In 2011, in recognition of her pioneering work in directed evolution, Arnold was awarded the Draper Prize, established by the National Academy of Engineering. Arnold shared that award and split its $500,000 in prize money with Willem Stemmer, who has used directed evolution to develop advanced biopharmaceuticals. In 2016 Arnold traveled to Helsinki to accept the Millennium Technology Prize awarded every two years by the Technology Academy of Finland. She was the first woman to be recognized with the honor, which came with $1.1 million. Wednesday morning, Arnold, the mother of three, sent out a tweet expressing her appreciation for the outpouring of congratulations shed received: Thank you everyone! I love this supportive community. Im stunned, and now I just have to get home from Dallas... Deborah Netburn and Karen Kaplan are Los Angeles Times writers. La Canada Valley Sun staff contributed to this report. What once was genuine now seems contrived. What used to be endearing has made a turn toward annoying. Conor McGregor kept the fans who came to his public workout Wednesday waiting for 45 minutes beyond the scheduled start time. McGregor is habitually late for these events, , but the payoff is usually some verbal entertainment. This time, he turned his back to the crowd to conduct a television interview with Fox, returned for a short session of flashing his punching speed and targeted kicks, hyped his new whiskey and spoke for no more than 90 seconds about Saturdays UFC 229 main event fight against lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Its good to be back, he said after taking a near two-year-long absence from the octagon to participate in, among other things, a boxing loss last year that paid him $100 million against Floyd Mayweather Jr., and an April hand-truck-throwing incident toward a bus occupied by Nurmagomedov that confined the boisterous Irishman to a Brooklyn jail for one night. Advertisement Saturday night, Im going to take his head off, McGregor continued. Trust me. Devastating KO, contending Nurmagomedov is too easy to hit, too flat-footed, too predictable. I always come out of the gate [on] fire. I dont give a [care] about anything -- any wrestling, any technique Im coming for that mans head from the bell. Trust me on that. The words seemed partially pulled from the scripts of his old UFC fights and the Mayweather promotion, McGregors a very popular fighter. People love him -- rightly or wrongly -- and theyll tune in to watch him win or get knocked out, former UFC middleweight champion and Fox UFC analyst Michael Bisping said. Either way, it results in pay-per-view sales, a lot of money, and ultimately hes winning. If he loses, where does he go from there? Thats the question. While McGregor (21-3) has struck a six-fight extension with the UFC, he stands as a slight (plus-140) underdog against Nurmagomedov. McGregors strategy will be to land a power punch on Nurmagomedov, expected to seek takedowns of the Irishman and maul him, as the new lightweight champion has said. Its a compelling draw, one UFC President Dana White said he expects to break the 1.6-million-pay-per-view record. Still, a defeat could cause major headaches for White and the UFC. While he has plenty of possible opponents to summon afterward, all of them would specialize in taking the fight to the canvas like Nurmagomedov. Among the options are a trilogy date with Nate Diaz, a move up in weight against welterweight champion Tyron Woodley, or a meeting with Orange Countys former interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson. Conor McGregor speaks during a UFC 229 news conference Sept. 20 in New York City. (Steven Ryan / Getty Images) Defeat exposes fighters, diminishes their drawing power, and transforms the rapid-tongued brilliance of McGregor into the ramblings of a man desperate to recapture what has vanished. Was Wednesdays appearance a preview of that? . Bisping says he envisions two endings to this: an early McGregor knockout victory, or an extended punishment by Nurmagomedov, who not only dodged that hand truck that McGregor tried to throw at him, but has listened as the Irishman has battered his father, his Islamic religious beliefs, his political friends and his relationship with Vladimir Putin without the flinching of other McGregor foes. I dont underestimate his striking game, Nurmagomedov said. Hes very good on timing, power. People have to wait for Saturday night. Its a very interesting fight, stylistically. You have to improve yourself as champion because Ive noticed a lot of champions they change with [the acclaim of] a lot of [public] appearances and the money. These things can change your skills. You have to be focused. Bisping, for now, isnt buying those projecting that the precipitous downfall of McGregor begins late Saturday night. Conor didnt take a lot of time off. He fought Mayweather in one of the biggest fights of all time, Bisping said. Hes always in the spotlight. Hes an egomaniac. And in a scenario like this, that helps you. Nurmagomedov looked out at McGregors supporters Wednesday. Three days ... , he told them. ... youre going to like me. lance.pugmire@latimes.com Twitter: @latimespugmire Check out the best of Cubas art and culture on special Cultural Journeys tours focusing on the Havana Biennial, an international visual arts program that will return in 2019 after a four-year hiatus. More than 200 invited artists from 20 countries, including the United States, could participate. Three tours during the course of the Biennials run will offer separate itineraries that will include the Biennial and visits to Superior Art School, Fabrica de Arte and Ernest Hemingway sites. Two of the weeklong trips include excursions to explore Biennial events outside Havana. Dates: April 11-18 and 19-25; May 7-13 Price: April departures from $3,150 per person, double occupancy; May departure from $2,775. Single supplement $850. Includes accommodations, most meals, entry fees, visa, and Cuban and American guides. Airfare not included. Info: Cultural Journeys, (562) 439-2828, www.cultural-journeys.com Visitors to Hawaii Island can now harvest some of that salt in the same way natives did in centuries past. The Salt Harvesting Experience at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is the newest of the hotels Only at Hualalai activities. The resort is along the the islands Kona Coast. Guests take a short hike along the beach to a flat where the salt gathers in pens carved in lava rock. There, spoons are used to collect salt in fabric bags. Our Hawaiian ancestors lived off of Hawaiis bountiful resources and in turn respected and honored our land and ocean, said Earl Regidor, the resorts cultural center manager. The natural salt the ocean provided was a cornerstone of Hawaiian living, used for food preservation, cooking, medicine and more. Advertisement Using the same techniques native Hawaiians used hundreds of years ago, a woman gathers sea salt along Hawaii Islands Kona Coast. (Four Seasons Resort Hualalai) With culinary uses in mind, participants return to the hotel for a cooking class during which a member of the restaurant team demonstrates how flaky sea salt is dried and then used in the preparation of various dishes. The Salt Harvesting Experience costs $450 a person. The resorts spa uses seven varieties of sea salt in its Salts of the Ocean treatment. The 80-minute session is costs $285. Both experiences are for hotel guests only. Info and reservations: (808) 325-8000 travel@latimes.com @latimestravel A U.S. couple who lent an Impressionist masterpiece to a French museum have been told they will not be getting it back because it was looted from a Jewish family during the World War II occupation of Paris. A Paris court ordered Bruce and Robbi Toll to relinquish the painting by Camille Pissarro called La Cueillette des Pois (Picking Peas), which they bought in 1995 from the Christies auction house in New York for $800,000. The painting, completed in 1887 and depicting peasants in the French countryside, was part of a collection owned by wealthy Jewish businessman Simon Bauer, who had 93 paintings seized in 1943 by the Vichy government that collaborated with the Nazis. The paintings were later sold, and Bauer was ordered to be transported to the German concentration camps. He was saved from deportation by a train drivers walkout. Advertisement When he died in 1947, he had retrieved only a small number of artworks from his collection. The Tolls lent the Pissarro to the Marmottan Museum in Paris for a major retrospective of Pissarros work in 2017, where it was spotted by Bauers grandson Jean-Jacques Bauer, who has spent 50 years trying to track down missing paintings from his grandfathers collection. Bauer took legal action to have it impounded. At a hearing in November, a judge ruled that though there was no suggestion the Tolls knew the painting was on a list of World War II looted works, a 1945 declaration in France voiding the sale of such items made their purchase invalid. On Tuesday, a Paris appeals court upheld this decision, and the Tolls were told the painting had to be returned to the Bauers. The Bauer family said through its lawyer Cedric Fischer that it would repay almost $127,000 in compensation it received from the postwar French authorities for the stolen painting, once it had been returned. Fischer said the painting was now worth about $1.75 million, the value at which the Tolls had insured it. Fischer said Tuesdays ruling upheld the right of the victims of acts of barbarity committed by the Vichy regime to recover, without a time limit, the goods they have been dispossessed of. Fischer had argued that there could be no time limit for the restitution of art looted by the Nazis or their allies as the thefts stemmed from a crime against humanity. Ron Soffer, a lawyer representing the Tolls, said his clients had bought the painting in good faith. Its a case full of emotion and drama, but Mr. Toll isnt responsible for the crimes of Vichy, Soffer said. The court made no order to compensate the Tolls. The Tolls, who are Jewish and patrons of the Washington and Tel Aviv Holocaust museums, have said they will appeal to the cassation court, Frances highest appeals court. Bruce Toll is a member of the board of trustees of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Robbi Toll has served on the board of trustees of the National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia. The couple are based in Palm Beach, Fla., and Rydal, Pa. About 650,000 pieces of art and property were looted or bought in forced sales from Jewish families in Europe by the Nazis and their allies, about 100,000 of them in France. Many of the works were later sold to people unaware of their provenance. Nobody knows exactly how many works remain missing, and figures vary from 10,000 to 60,000. In the last two years, France has been ramping up efforts to restore looted artworks in what has been a slow and complex process often involving bitter legal battles. Three weeks ago, a Renoir painting stolen by the Nazis was returned to Sylvie Sulitzer, the only surviving heir of prominent Paris art collector Alfred Weinberger, in a ceremony in New York. Willsher is a special correspondent. British Prime Minister Theresa May battled to unite her Conservative Party on Wednesday, telling critics to abandon their dreams of a perfect Brexit and come together as divorce negotiations with the European Union enter their tough final phase. May took on her detractors in a punchy address at the partys annual conference, a day after a rival, former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, challenged her authority with a crowd-pleasing speech of his own. If we all go off in different directions in pursuit of our own visions of the perfect Brexit, we risk ending up with no Brexit at all, May said in a warning to Johnson and others who aim to oust her or force her to change course. A Brexit that might make Britain stronger 50 years from now is no good to you if it makes your life harder today, she noted. Advertisement Britains governing party is deeply divided over the countrys impending departure from the EU, with pro- and anti-EU camps both criticizing the prime ministers negotiations with the bloc. With just under six months until Britain leaves the EU on March 29, the speech Wednesday was an attempt by May to solve her Brexit conundrum. The EU has rejected her proposed Brexit deal and demanded new ideas from Britain. But pro-Brexit members of Mays Conservative government oppose any softening of Britains stance. So the negotiations with the EU have ground to a halt, Britains businesses are growing jittery and Conservative Brexit advocates like Johnson are demanding that Britain make a clean break with the bloc deal or no deal. Less than three weeks before a make-or-break EU summit in Brussels, May said divorce negotiations were entering their toughest phase. But she rejected calls by Euroskeptics to walk away from the talks, saying that leaving without a deal introducing tariffs and costly checks at the border would be a bad outcome for the U.K. and the EU. Mays speech was a direct riposte to Johnson, who told a rapturous audience Tuesday that Mays proposal for close post-Brexit economic ties with the EU was an outrage that would leave Britain unable to strike new trade deals around the world. May defended her Brexit blueprint, which aims to keep Britain aligned with many EU rules in return for remaining in the blocs single market for goods. She argued that her plan would preserve the frictionless trade that many businesses depend on, while ensuring no change whatsoever to Northern Irelands border with Ireland. Britain and the EU agree there must be no customs checks or other barriers along the invisible border between the U.K.s Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. But they dont agree on how to achieve that, and the issue remains the biggest obstacle to a Brexit deal. Mays speech was a triumph compared with last years disastrous event, when she was plagued by a cough, interrupted by a prankster and had parts of the stage backdrop fall down as she was speaking. This time, May even poked fun at her robotic public image cemented when her awkward dance moves on a trip to Africa went viral by busting a move as she took the stage to ABBAs Dancing Queen. She reached out to voters whose living standards have been squeezed by stagnating incomes and public spending cuts since the 2008 global financial crisis. In a major policy shift, May said the government would abandon its long-held policy of slashing public spending in the name of deficit reduction. A decade after the financial crash, people need to know that the austerity it led to is over, she said. She painted an optimistic picture of post-Brexit Britain, saying, Our future is full of promise. It was an upbeat end to an anxious Conservative conference in Birmingham, in central England. A week ago, the opposition Labor Party met in Liverpool at an event brimming with energy and confidence. The Conservatives, in contrast, were full of doubt. Many delegates lamented the fact that Brexit has drowned out the partys message on housing, taxation, healthcare and other big issues. While pro-Brexit delegates railed against Mays compromises and the iniquities of Brussels, pro-EU Tories claimed Brexit had tainted the party with an inward-looking image that turns off voters, especially the young. Mays speech was welcomed by many in a party worn down by Brexit bickering. It was not just about Brexit she gave a vision for the country for the future, said Rishi Fernando of London. This has definitely increased my respect for her. But Mays future remains uncertain. Many Conservatives expect her to face a leadership challenge soon after Brexit day or even before. Pro-Brexit legislator James Duddridge on Wednesday called the Brexit negotiations an absolute disaster and said he had added his name to a list of Conservative lawmakers demanding a confidence vote in the prime minister. A vote will be triggered if 48 legislators ask for one. No one knows yet how many have already submitted their requests. We need a strong leader and we havent got that at the moment, Duddridge said. Three months after a spectacular helicopter escape from a French prison, police caught one of Frances most wanted men in a predawn raid Wednesday, finding the fugitive holed up in his hometown north of Paris. Authorities said Redoine Faid who is infamous in France for twice escaping from behind bars had tried to elude surveillance by disguising himself as a woman in a burqa. He was arrested in Creil without resistance, Justice Minister Nicole Belloubet said, adding that numerous tips led to his arrest. She said the criminal would be jailed in a high-security prison with extremely tight surveillance and will be prosecuted for his latest prison break. Faid, a self-confessed fan of gangster movies, broke out of prison July 1 with the help of armed, masked men who took a helicopter pilot hostage, forced him to land in the prisons yard, used power tools to break through the prison doors and hustled Faid to freedom. Advertisement Redoine Faid is shown in 2010. (IBO / Associated Press) The 46-year-old, who had a long career as a serial robber, became well known in France after writing an autobiography. Before his latest prison escape, he was serving 25 years for his role in the 2010 death of a 26-year-old police officer, Aurelie Fouquet, killed in a botched robbery. Prime Minister Edouard Philippe visited the Judicial Police headquarters in Nanterre, where Faid and others arrested with him were initially taken, to congratulate investigators for tracking down Faid. It was Philippes first act wearing a double hat after the sudden voluntary departure of Gerard Collomb from his post as interior minister. Recounting details about Faids capture during a news conference, Paris prosecutor Francois Molins said the fugitive was spotted by police July 24 in the Paris region alongside his brother Rachid, but the pair managed to escape a high-speed car chase. They abandoned their vehicle in a shopping center parking lot in Sarcelles and fled. Fake explosives in the vehicle and fake license plates added to a growing stack of clues leading to his capture. Molins said a major turning point came over the weekend when police realized that a female accomplice in Creil had picked up in her car a person dressed in a burqa whose attitude let them think it was actually a man. About 120 police officers, including members of the elite Brigade for Research and Intervention unit, were involved in Wednesdays operation. BFMTV, a 24-hour news and weather channel in France, showed scenes of the disheveled interior of the fifth-floor apartment where Faid was caught about 4 a.m. Wednesday, reporting that a revolver and an automatic pistol were seized at the scene. Six others including Faids brother Rachid, two of his nephews and the female accomplice were arrested, Molins said. Faid had escaped from behind bars before the previous time using explosives hidden in tissues. He told the newsweekly Le Point in 2010 that he learned how to attack armored vans, his dream, by dissecting scenes from Michael Manns 1995 movie Heat, about professional bank robbers, which he said he watched 100 times. Faid claimed he met Mann in Paris for the premiere of another film and told him you were my best [professor] ... but you messed up my life. UPDATES: 3:22 p.m.: The article was updated with further details. This article was originally published at 9:40 a.m. Pope Francis urged Catholic bishops to dream of a future free of the mistakes of the past as he opened a global church leadership meeting Wednesday amid renewed outrage over the priest sex abuse and coverup scandal. Yet down the block from the Vaticans synod hall, about two dozen abuse survivors staged a sit-in, demanding their cause be taken up at the meeting and voicing outrage that some of the delegates had covered up for abusive priests. Make Zero Tolerance Real, read one protest sign. Francis welcomed more than 250 priests, bishops and cardinals as well as 34 young Catholics to a month-long meeting on ministering to future generations, urging young and old to listen to one another without prejudice. Advertisement He prayed for Gods help to ensure the church does not allow itself, from one generation to the next, to be extinguished or crushed by the prophets of doom and misfortune, by our own shortcomings, mistakes and sins. The Oct. 3-28 synod comes amid new revelations about decades of sexual misconduct by priests and coverups in the U.S., Chile, Germany and elsewhere. That has sent confidence in Francis leadership to all-time lows among the American faithful. Catholic churches move to name molesting priests, but victims say its too little, too late A new survey by the Pew Research Center found that just 31% of U.S. Catholics felt the pope was doing an excellent or good job in addressing the abuse issue, down from 45% in January and 55% in 2015. It has been a disastrous year for the pope on the abuse front, after he botched a prominent coverup scandal in Chile before changing course. More recently, he has been accused of rehabilitating an American ex-cardinal who pressured seminarians to sleep with him. Those cases, coupled with the release of devastating studies about decades of abuses and coverups in Pennsylvania and Germany that predated his papacy, have fueled doubts about his oft-stated pledge of having zero tolerance for that, since implicated bishops remain in place. Bishops attend a Mass celebrated by Pope Francis at the Vatican on Wednesday. (Alessandra Tarantino / Associated Press) Pope Francis talks about zero tolerance, and that bishops who cover up should be removed and put on trial, said Alessandro Battaglia, who was 15 when he was abused by a Milan-area priest who last month was convicted and sentenced to more than six years in prison. The current archbishop of Milan, Mario Delpini, testified at the trial of the Rev. Mauro Galli that he had transferred Galli to another parish rather than report him to police or keep him away from other potential victims, as Battaglias family had requested. Despite publicity about the case, Francis named Delpini archbishop of Milan in July and named him a papal delegate at the synod. What is this zero tolerance? Battaglia asked at the protest Wednesday. If he wants to give a sign of zero tolerance and coherence and credibility, remove him [Delpini]. Among those participating in the protest were the hearing-impaired victims of the notorious Antonio Provolo Institute in Verona, Italy, where deaf children were allegedly sodomized for years by Catholic priests and brothers. The victims have found no justice even though Francis and the Vatican were informed of their plight in 2014. They are now preparing a case to take to Italian prosecutors. We think young people should question the way the church has dealt with this in the past, said Matthias Katsch of the Ending Clergy Abuse global advocacy group. Francis didnt refer directly to the abuse scandal in his homily at Mass or later Wednesday in his opening speech to the synod. He did, however, call for an end to the scourge of clericalism the culture that puts clergy on a pedestal and unaccountable to their flocks, which Francis has blamed for the scandal. Clericalism is a perversion and is the root of many evils in the church, he told the delegates. We must humbly ask forgiveness for this and above all create the conditions so that it is not repeated. Francis choked up during his homily when he welcomed two Chinese bishops to the gathering, the first time Chinese bishops have attended a Vatican synod. That was made possible thanks to a landmark agreement with Beijing over bishop nominations that unified the Chinese Catholic leadership for the first time in decades. Sergei Skripal, the former Russian spy who was poisoned in Britain with a Soviet-made nerve agent, is a traitor and scum, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday. Some media outlets are trying to put forward the idea that Skripal was practically a human rights defender, Putin said in opening remarks at an international energy forum in the Russian capital. He is simply a spy and a traitor to his country. He is just scum, and thats it. Skripal, 67, a former Russian military intelligence officer, and his daughter, Yulia, 33, were found slumped over on a bench in March near his home in Salisbury, England. A British investigation found that the two, both of whom survived, had been poisoned by a military-grade nerve agent called Novichok that was developed in the former Soviet Union. Britain has blamed the Kremlin for attempting to assassinate the father and daughter, saying two Russian military intelligence agents carried out the poisoning. The Kremlin has denied the accusations. Advertisement Both Skripals had long hospital stays, while a second woman in the same city died, investigators said, after she came into contact with a fake perfume bottle used to transport the nerve agent. Putin has never taken kindly to those he believes have turned their backs on Russia. A former KGB agent himself, he has said in the past that traitors should be killed. Traitors will kick the bucket, Putin said in a 2010 Russian TV interview. On Tuesday, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova suggested that British officials refusal to allow Russia to participate in an investigation indicated that they were trying to hide the truth. It is yet more evidence that London is pursuing provocative anti-Russian goals in its propaganda campaign over the so-called Skripal case, she said, according to Russian media reports. Skripal was sent to prison in Russia after being convicted of treason in 2006 of passing secrets to Britain. He was granted asylum in Britain as part of a spy exchange between Russia and the U.S. in 2010. Putins comments Wednesday came amid media reports detailing connections between the two men accused of poisoning the Skripals and Russias military intelligence agency. British police have released security camera images they said showed the men traveling to the U.K. under the aliases of Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov. The men, suspected to be Russian military intelligence agents, appeared walking near the Skripal home in Salisbury on the day before and the day of the poisoning. The Kremlin denied the men were known to Russias intelligence services. And on Sept. 12, Putin told reporters at an economic summit in Russias far east that the Russian government had identified the men as civilians who would soon reveal themselves publicly. The following day, two men appeared in an exclusive interview with Kremlin-funded RT television. In the interview, the men said that they were the pair in the British security video clips, and that their names were Petrov and Boshirov. They had made the 6,000-mile round trip from Moscow to Salisbury in three days, they said, simply as tourists hoping to see the southern English citys famous cathedral spire and clock. The two men described themselves as businessmen in the fitness industry and denied any involvement in the Skripal poisoning. The interview sparked memes and jokes on the Internet about the popularity of Russian tourism in small English cities. Since then, media reports have surfaced that Boshirov may actually be Anatoly Chepiga, a decorated colonel in Russias military intelligence agency. When asked about Chepigas identity, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov angrily told reporters on Sept. 28 that just because an image looked like someone, it doesnt mean it is that person. Citing the presence of impersonators in the heart of Moscow, Peskov said, We have 10 Stalins and 15 Lenins on Red Square, and all of them closely resemble the real ones. On Tuesday, Ukraines interior minister, Arsen Avakov, offered more to the speculation of the Skripal suspects past. At least one of the men has been identified by Kiev investigators, he said, as having been involved in helping former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich escape from Kiev during 2014 anti-government protests, which forced the Russia-friendly leader to flee for Russia. sabra.ayres@latimes.com Twitter: @sabraayres Ayres is a special correspondent. The best hope for averting a bloodbath in the northwest Syrian province of Idlib home to 2.6 million people and the last major bastion of rebels fighting the government depends on cajoling tens of thousands of militants there to lay down their weapons. That job falls to neighboring Turkey, which in an eleventh-hour deal last month brokered with Russia put on hold a Syrian government offensive to take back the province and end the long insurgency. Under the agreement, all rebels must surrender their rocket launchers, tanks and other heavy weapons by Oct. 10 to create a demilitarized zone. The dominant rebel group, the Organization for the Liberation of Syria, which controls about 70% of the province and was once affiliated with Al Qaeda, would then have five days to withdraw from the zone along with other jihadi groups. Advertisement That would leave the zone under the control of a more moderate alliance known as National Liberation Front, which is backed by Turkey. But all that may be wishful thinking. Both major rebel groups have indicated that they are unwilling to give up their weapons. There will be no handover of arms, Naji Mustafa, a spokesman for the National Liberation Front, said Monday by phone. In any case our heavy weaponry is already in the rear lines, he said. There were also conflicting understandings over how the deal would be enforced. The agreement calls for Turkish soldiers and Russian military police to patrol the zone together while allowing the rebels to keep anti-aircraft guns, medium machine guns and anti-armor rockets. But Mustafa said that only forces from Turkey and not Russia, which has provided critical military support to the Syrian government would be allowed to patrol the buffer zone. The government would also be barred, he said. That runs counter to the frequently stated ambition of Syrian government officials to retake every inch of the country. Walid Moallem, the foreign minister, said in an interview last week with the Moscow-funded Russia Today broadcaster that the deal was a positive step for the Syrian state to spread its control over all of its territories. He said reconciliation agreements would ensure a peaceful solution in Idlib, though rebels and human rights groups point out that waves of arrests have followed similar deals in other parts of the country. Idlib, a mountainous region renowned for its olives and cherries, lies at the nexus of major highways that form the backbone of Syrias transit system. (Los Angeles Times) Its proximity to Turkey made it a primary conduit for rebel factions after the Syrian civil war began in 2011. With support from the Turkish government, the opposition ferried men and supplies across the border to fight loyalist forces. In 2015, an alliance of Islamist and secular groups drove government troops from the entire province and announced that Idlib would be the springboard for the opposition to topple Syrian President Bashar Assad and take over the country. But Russias entry into the war turned the tide in Assads favor, and as the rebels ceded one enclave after another to government campaigns, Idlib became the dumping ground for militants unwilling to lay down their arms and civilians who dont want to live under Assads government. Many of its residents are packed in overcrowded camps, relying on humanitarian aid from a host of countries arrayed against Assad. The Organization for the Liberation of Syria is thought to have as many as 15,000 militants in the province. The National Liberation Front a mix of hard-line Islamic groups and more moderate Western-backed rebel factions was formed this year at the urging of Turkey, which wanted a check on the power of the more radical opposition. Islamic State also has a small presence in Idlib, along with thousands of Chinese, Albanian and other foreign jihadis. For weeks, Syrian army troops have massed around Idlib. But Western powers, have urged Russia and the Syrian government not to engage in what President Trump called a reckless escalation in Idlib. If its a slaughter, he later said in reference to a government campaign, then the U.S. and the world are going to get very, very angry. James Jeffrey, the U.S. special representative to Syria, said at a news briefing last week that the U.S. would be especially likely to intervene militarily if the Syrian government used chemical weapons, as Assad stands accused of having done in the past. A Russian soldier stands guard at the Abu Duhur crossing on the eastern edge of Idlib province on Sept. 25, 2018, as Syrians cross from rebel-held areas to government-held areas. (George Ourfalian / AFP / Getty Images) The agreement to put the offensive on hold was forged Sept. 17 in the Russian resort city of Sochi between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkeys Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The deal would reopen the vital M5 highway, which links the Syrian capital, Damascus, to the northern city of Aleppo, and the M4, which connects the coastal city of Latakia to Syrias east. It would also restart shipping commerce on the Turkish-Syrian border through the Bab al Hawa crossing, which has long been controlled by the Organization for the Liberation of Syria, which has collected millions of dollars in taxes there. The return of Idlib to the Syrian government would also have benefits for Russia, bringing it closer to ending its involvement in a conflict that has already killed 112 of its servicemen and hundreds of affiliated private mercenaries. Russia also hopes a peaceful resolution in Idlib will result in billions of dollars in aid from Western donors for reconstruction that could be a windfall for Russian companies. But among foreign powers involved in Idlib, Turkey may have the most at stake. Seeking to prevent a massive influx of refugees and fearing the security risk of jihadis who could join the deluge, Turkey has sealed its border and intensified efforts to persuade the rebels to disarm. Local media have reported intense discussions between the Turkish intelligence service and the Organization for the Liberation of Syria. What is worrying is that it would seem Turkey would have to offer extremist groups something to leave the demilitarized zone, potentially some kind of material incentives, said a Western official. He said that other groups were trying to absorb those rebels so they can stay in their hometowns within the demilitarized zone. nabih.bulos@latimes.com Twitter: @nabihbulos Kochi : The Kerala High Court on Wednesday rejected the bail plea filed by Former Jalandhar Diocese Bishop Franco Mulakkal in the Nun abuse case. Rejecting the bail plea, the HC single bench pointed that, prima facie the Bishop was found guilty. The Prosecution also submitted a key evidence in a sealed cover before the court on Wednesday. The Prosecution had argued if the bail is granted, the case will be sabotaged and efforts will be made to influence the witnesses in the case. The Investigation team also submitted the case diary in the court and informed the stages of the probe development in the court. President Rodrigo Dutertes spokesman and the top brass of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on Tuesday clashed over Senator Antonio Trillanes IVs application for a general amnesty. Testifying before the Senate finance committee, Armed Forces chief Gen. Carlito Galvez admitted that Trillanes applied for amnesty contrary to the Palace claim and that there were lapses in the transfer of documents that resulted in the supposedly missing application form of the former mutineer-turned-senator. Our suspicion, sir, [is that] the repository of all these documents did not bring the documents to us in GHQ (General Head Quarters), Galvez said. Did I apply for amnesty? Trillanes asked Galvez. According to Berbigal, sir, yes, Galvez said, referring to Col. Josefa Berbigal, the former head of the amnesty committee secretariat. Malacanang immediately disputed Galvezs claim, with Roque belittling the position of the AFP chief of staff on the amnesty issue. Certainly, you dont expect me to take the side of [AFP] Chief Galvez who is not a lawyer over the words of a learned judge, Roque said, adding that one of the two Makati City courts handling Trillanes criminal cases had already ruled against the senators claim that he had complied with the amnesty requirements. It doesnt matter. He [Galvez] is not a lawyer and under the rules of evidence, it [original copy] is the best evidence. Before you can offer secondary evidence, you need to establish why you cant produce original document, he added. At the same hearing, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said he was not knowledgeable on what happened because the processing of his amnesty application was done during the administration of President Benigno Aquino III. But he admitted that on Aug. 16, he received a call from Solicitor General Jose Calida asking him if they could produce the amnesty records. He related that his staff was able to produce Proclamation No. 75 issued by Aquino as well as an amnesty document signed by then-Defense secretary Voltaire Gazmin. Thats all that came from us. Those are the only two documents that were given to him [Calida], Lorenzana said.Lorenzana said a J1 staff certified that the senators amnesty application could not be found at the GHQ. When Trillanes asked if the DND has already conducted its own investigation on the missing document, Lorenzana said they did, but could not find anything. Trillanes was implicated in at least two military uprisings the 2003 Oakwood mutiny and the 2007 Manila Peninsula siege, to overthrow the government of then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Galvez said they had tried to reach out to the ad hoc committee that processed Trillanes amnesty application. Honorio Azcueta, committee head and Berbigal certified that Trillanes had applied for an amnesty. Lt. Col. Josefa Berbigal is the one who administered your oath, Galvez said. Berbigal, an officer at the Judge Advocate Generals office, has filed an affidavit in court, supporting Trillanes claim he had applied for amnesty and was granted one by the past administration. In voiding Trillaness amnesty, President Rodrigo Dutertes Proclamation No 572 cited his failure to apply for a general amnesty and to admit his guilt in the crimes committed. Duterte also ordered the Department of Justice and the Court Marshall of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to pursue all criminal and administrative charges against the senator. Thorium, Uraniums Ugly Stepsister for Nuclear Reactor Fuel Most junior resource investors know uranium, and many got in on the action when NexGen Energy and Fission Uranium made their discoveries in the Athabasca Basin of Saskatchewan, the region with the highest grades of uranium in the world. Smart, or lucky, shareholders of NXE enjoyed a cumulative share price rise of around 430% between 2014 and 2016, while Fission Energy - famous for its Patterson Lake South property that yielded the open-pittable Triple R deposit - jumped from 91 cents in November 2013 to $1.62 a share in April 2014, for a gain of 78%. Uranium is the fuel needed to create the nuclear reaction that can either create nuclear power or nuclear weapons. To make nuclear fuel from uranium ore, the uranium is first extracted from the rock, then enriched with the uranium-235 isotope, before being made into pellets that are loaded into assemblies of nuclear fuel rods. In a nuclear reactor, several hundred fuel assemblies containing thousands of small pellets of uranium oxide are in the reactor core. The nuclear chain reaction that creates energy starts when U-235 splits or fissions, which produces a lot of heat in a controlled environment. In a conventional nuclear reactor, the pressurized water reactor, fuel rods containing uranium pellets are placed in water. Visualized as a giant kettle, the heat generated from the pellets boils water to create steam, which turns turbines to generate electricity. But the downside of conventional nuclear power stations is the nuclear reaction also produces plutonium, which is highly radioactive, and other wastes, causing a problem for disposal. Stronium-90 and cesium-137, contained in nuclear waste, have half-lives of about 30 years, but plutonium-239 takes 24,000 years to fully decay. When it works well, the nuclear reaction is an efficient form of energy creation. One uranium pellet weighing just 6 grams is said to produce the same amount of energy as a tonne of coal. But it also leaves a lot of radioactive waste that needs to be incinerated, encased in concrete, or buried deep underground for centuries. When nuclear power goes wrong, the fallout is catastrophic. Nuclear meltdowns like Chernobyl in Russia, Three Mile Island in the US, and Fukushima in Japan are burned into the collective consciousness and serve as constant reminders of the dangers of nuclear power that drive the anti-nuke movement. While nuclear energy generation will never be without risks, proponents argue these are manageable and small compared to the risk of increased greenhouse gas emissions caused by the continued burning of fossil fuels for power, that are warming the planet. For this reason, nuclear is always in the mix of energies required to make the transformation from an oil-based economy to one where renewable and nuclear energies make up a larger proportion of our global electricity. The question is, must we keep using uranium in our nuclear power plants, or is there another option? There is. Its uraniums ugly stepsister, a little-known element known as thorium. Some scientists believe thorium is key to developing a new version of cleaner, safer nuclear power. So why hasnt thorium entered the popular and investor lexicon like uranium has? The silvery-white metal has a fascinating history, and despite taking a backseat to uranium as the primary nuclear fuel, it is making a comeback. This is the story of thorium, the wunder-fuel that wasnt, but could be. History Thorium is named after Thor, the Norse god of thunder. It was first discovered in 1815 by Jons Jakob Berzelius, a Swedish chemist, but a few years later it was determined that the mineral was actually yttrium phosphate. In 1828 Berzelius was given a sample of a black mineral found on an island off the coast of Norway by Hans Esmark, a Norwegian mineralogist. The mineral contained several known elements including lead, tin, iron, manganese and uranium, but 60% was an unknown substance that was subsequently named thorite. Thorium was first isolated by mixing thorium oxide with carbon, creating thorium chloride. When reacted with potassium, the result was thorium and potassium chloride, according to Chemicool. It took another 70 years for scientists to realize that thorium was radioactive. The discovery was made by Gerhard Schmidt, a German chemist, and Marie Cure, a Polish physicist, who are often credited with its discovery. Thorium oxide (ThO2) has the highest melting point of all oxides (3300C) so its not surprising that its early applications were in lantern mantles, arc-light lamps, welding electrodes and heat-resistant ceramics. Thorium oxide is also used in camera lenses and scientific instruments. Abundance Thorium is actually fairly common on Earth. According to Livescience it occurs in the Earths crust at 6 parts per million - about as much as lead and three times more abundant than uranium; it is the 41st most abundant element on Earth. However it is thought to be rare because thorium is normally found as minor constituents of metals. Interestingly though, natural thorium occurs as almost pure 232Th, the most stable thorium isotope, which has a half-life comparable to the age of the universe (14 billion years), and whose radioactive decay is the largest contributor to the Earths internal heat. Right now its estimated the planet still has about 85% of the thorium present when the Earth was formed. Scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory - where the first nuclear weapons were designed as part of the Manhattan Project - think that thorium was created in the cores of supernovae (the last stages of a stars life), then scattered across the universe when the stars exploded. Trace elements are found in rocks, soil, water, plants and animals, with higher concentrations contained within thorite, thorianite, monazite, allanite, and zircon. The element is mined mostly in Australia, Brazil and India. The rare earth mineral monazite contains between 6 and 12% thorium phosphate. According to the World Nuclear Association (WNO) world monazite resources are estimated at around 16 million tonnes, 12MT of which are found in mineral sands deposits in India. A large vein deposit of thorium and rare earth elements is in Idaho. Recovering thorium from monazite involves leaching it with sodium hydroxide at 140C followed by a process to precipitate pure ThO2. The WNO states that under 10,000 tonnes a year of monazite are extracted per year from India, Brazil, Vietnam and Malaysia, and without commercial rare earth recovery, thorium production is not economic at present. Use in nuclear energy The story gets really interesting when thorium was found to be radioactive - just two years after the discovery of uranium radioactivity by French physicist Henry Bequerel. Initially thoriums radioactivity was thought to have health benefits, and was promoted as a cure for rheumatism, diabetes and even impotence. However in 1932 these uses were banned due to a federal investigation that found that people injected with thorium suffered from leukemia and abnormal chromosomes. Attention then turned to the use of thorium in nuclear energy. During the Cold War the US looked at using 232Th to create 233U - which was being investigated as both a reactor fuel and to build nuclear bombs. But the US Military rejected a bomb built with 233U because it did not have technical advantages over uranium-plutonium bombs and especially since it it is difficult to produce pure 233U states a 1966 technical report. Uraniums chief advantage over thorium, as a nuclear fuel, was that it could be used to produce both atomic weapons and nuclear power, while thorium, unlike uranium, is not fissile meaning it cannot be split to make a nuclear chain reaction and could only be applied to nuclear power. With the United States in the early stages of an arms race against the former Soviet Union to develop a nuclear arsenal, it was easy to see which element would win out. While thorium was used in a later version of Americas first civilian nuclear power plant - headed up by Hyman Rickover, the US admiral responsible for creating the worlds first nuclear-powered submarine - it would take a back seat to uranium as the primary fuel for nuclear reactors. Thorium nuclear reactors were developed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory to support nuclear-powered long-range bombers, but the program was scrapped in 1961 in favor of other technologies according to a 2009 NASA paper. This is because the liquid fluoride thorium reactors did not produce as much plutonium, needed for developing nuclear weapons, as uranium-powered reactors. Nonetheless, the first thorium-based nuclear reactor was built at the Indian Point Energy Center, New York, in 1962. As mentioned thorium is not able to split an atom to produce the nuclear reaction; instead, when thorium is exposed to neutrons, it eventually emerges into the isotope U-233, which splits and releases energy. In this way thorium is said to be fertile rather than fissile. Recycled plutonium can also be used with thorium. Uranium vs thorium Other than the fact that uranium is better than thorium in building nuclear weapons, how do the two nuclear fuels stack up against one another? According to the Royal Society of Chemistry, thoriums benefits include: Thorium is three to four times more abundant than uranium. There is estimated to be enough thorium on the planet to last 10,000 years. Thorium is more easily extracted than uranium. Liquid fluoride thorium reactors (LFTR) - a type of molten salt reactor - have very little waste compared with reactors powered by uranium. It is more efficient. One tonne of thorium delivers the same amount of energy as 250 tonnes of uranium. LFTRs run at atmospheric pressure instead of 150 to 160 times atmospheric pressure currently needed for water cooled reactors. Thorium is less radioactive than uranium. The 2011 Fukushima disaster in Japan soured the world on nuclear, and started scientists looking more closely at thorium as a greener alternative. While conventional nuclear plants are only able to extract 3-5% of the energy in uranium fuel rods, in molten salt reactors favored by thorium proponents, nearly all the fuel is consumed. Where radioactive waste from uranium-based reactors lasts up to 10,000 years, residues from the thorium reaction will become inert within 500. Lastly, because plutonium is not created as a waste product in a thorium reactor, it cannot be separated from the waste and used to make nuclear weapons. Although, the World Nuclear Association points out that the United States made about two tonnes of U-233 during the Cold War and detonated a nuclear weapon containing U-233. The explosive yield though was less than expected, just 22 kilotons. In 1998 India detonated a small nuclear device from U-233. As far as disadvantages, thorium takes extremely high temperatures to produce nuclear fuel (550 degrees higher than uranium dioxide), meaning thorium dioxide is expensive to make. Second, irradiated thorium is dangerously radioactive in the short-term. Detractors also say the thorium fuel cycle is less advanced than uranium-plutonium and could take decades to perfect; by that time, renewable energies could make the cost of thorium reactors cost-prohibitive. The International Nuclear Agency predicts that the thorium cycle wont be commercially viable while uranium is still readily available. Molten salt nuclear reactors Molten salt reactors (MSRs) are well suited to thorium fuel, and while they were first conceived of in the 1940s, as noted above, to fuel aircraft, there has been a renewed interest in them. In the Liquid Fluoride Thorium Reactor (LFTR), the fuel is not cast into pellets like uranium, but is rather dissolved in a vat of liquid salt. According to ZME Science, since molten salt reactor technology was revived in the 2000s, interest has grown quickly, with four companies in the US announcing plans for MSRs, as well as in Japan, Russia, France and China. In Norway, Thor Energy started producing power from thorium at its Halden test reactor in 2013, with help from Westinghouse. The third phase of a five-year thorium trial operation got underway in January. Indias thorium program is well advanced. The country envisions meeting 30% of its electricity demands through thorium-based reactors by 2050. With large quantities of thorium and little uranium, India wants to use thorium for large-scale energy production. It plans to construct and commission a fleet of 500 sodium-cooled fast reactors - which burn spent uranium and plutonium - in order to breed plutonium to be used in its advanced heavy water reactors that employ thorium as the nuclear fuel. A prototype of the 500-megawatt fast breeder reactor (FBR) in Kalpakkam, India was supposed to be finished in late 2017 but has been put off to later this year. One of the main advantages of MSRs is the reactor cannot melt down, as we saw in Fukushima when electric pumps were inundated by the tsunami, failing to cool the fuel rods, which overheated and caused radiation emissions. MSRs can also be made cheaper and smaller than conventional reactors, since they do not have large pressurized containment tanks, meaning they could be used in factory settings. MSRs use molten salt instead of water as a coolant, allowing them to reach temperatures over 80C, three times hotter than a conventional nuclear plant cooled with water. Another advantage is that nuclear waste (ie. plutonium) can be recycled to recover the fissile materials needed to create the nuclear reaction. In this way, thorium reactors not only generate less waste than conventional reactors, but also help to rectify the nuclear waste disposal problem. Work continues Examples of companies and countries that are testing thoriums viability as a nuclear fuel keep growing. Last summer a Dutch nuclear institute started experimenting with MSRs. NRG, the name of the facility, on the North Sea coast of the Netherlands, launched the Salt Irradiation Experiment in collaboration with the EU. New Scientist reports the researchers will use thorium as the nuclear fuel for the reactor where both the reactor fuel and the coolant are a mixture of molten salt. The experiment will also examine how to deal with the nuclear waste. Indonesia, which has a large amount of thorium contained within monazite, signed an agreement three years ago with US company ThorCon Power, to develop molten salt reactors. A 1,000-megawatt thorium-based reactor would be used for base-load power and produce 5 gigawatts a year. The country wants around 20% of its energy mix to come from thorium molten salt reactors by 2050. In the United States, the Department of Energy is partnering with TerraPower, Vanderbilt and the Oak Ridge National Lab, among others, to build a molten chloride fast reactor - a type of MSR - Oilprice.com reported. Southern Company in 2016 was the second firm to receive a grant from the DOE. China, seemingly always on the leading edge of new energy, has put aside US$3.3 billion to build two molten salt reactors in the Gobi Desert, to be up and running by 2020, the South China Morning Post said in December. The reactors could spawn new uses for the radioactive element, including applications in warships and drones. Conclusion If there hadnt been an urgent need to develop nuclear weapons for the Cold War, theres a reasonably good chance that thorium rather than uranium would have become the nuclear fuel of choice. The ability of uranium to kickstart the nuclear reaction makes it one of the most strategically important minerals on Earth. If the world was running out of uranium, thorium demand, and the technology to make molten salt reactors, would probably be much farther advanced than it currently is. But we are not running out of uranium. According to the World Nuclear Association (WNA), in 2017, world uranium production totalled 59,531 tonnes, which satisfied 92% of world demand. The top producers are Kazakhstan, Canada and Australia. Total known, recoverable uranium resources as of 2015 were 5.718 million tonnes. Contrast this with thorium. The WNA states there are 6.555 million tonnes of thorium resources in the world - with most thorium held in India, Brazil and Australia/ the US (tied for third). Thats a bit more than total uranium resources. But how much thorium is mined? According to the USGS, in 2017, only 2.2 tons of thorium (mostly monazite) were imported into the United States; thorium compound exports were 83 tons. Obviously the tiny numbers are because there is currently no market for thorium. But if there was, there are around 6 million tonnes of resources waiting to be converted into reserves. Quite an opportunity for thorium explorers should molten salt reactors ever catch on enough to augment, let alone replace, conventional uranium-based reactors. The demand for thorium fuel, and its price, would skyrocket. For now, thorium is a theoretical solution to our energy dilemma, but it could be much more than that. A concerted effort to develop thorium reactor technology could provide stable, clean, base-load power for millions, something that is not possible with renewables due to the intermittency factor (ie. power can only be generated when the sun shines and the wind blows) and the current early stages of renewable battery storage technology. It is safer and better for the environment than uranium, and can even use radioactive waste as feedstock for the nuclear reaction, thus killing two birds with one stone. The market isnt yet ready for thorium, but when it is, a whole new mining sector and supply chain will be born. Thorium and its potential for resource exploration is on my radar screen. By Richard (Rick) Mills www.aheadoftheherd.com rick@aheadoftheherd.com If you're interested in learning more about the junior resource and bio-med sectors please come and visit us at www.aheadoftheherd.com Site membership is free. No credit card or personal information is asked for. Richard is host of Aheadoftheherd.com and invests in the junior resource sector. His articles have been published on over 400 websites, including: Wall Street Journal, Market Oracle, USAToday, National Post, Stockhouse, Lewrockwell, Pinnacledigest, Uranium Miner, Beforeitsnews, SeekingAlpha, MontrealGazette, Casey Research, 24hgold, Vancouver Sun, CBSnews, SilverBearCafe, Infomine, Huffington Post, Mineweb, 321Gold, Kitco, Gold-Eagle, The Gold/Energy Reports, Calgary Herald, Resource Investor, Mining.com, Forbes, FNArena, Uraniumseek, Financial Sense, Goldseek, Dallasnews, Vantagewire, Resourceclips and the Association of Mining Analysts. Copyright 2018 Richard (Rick) Mills - All Rights Reserved Legal Notice / Disclaimer: This document is not and should not be construed as an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to purchase or subscribe for any investment. Richard Mills has based this document on information obtained from sources he believes to be reliable but which has not been independently verified; Richard Mills makes no guarantee, representation or warranty and accepts no responsibility or liability as to its accuracy or completeness. Expressions of opinion are those of Richard Mills only and are subject to change without notice. Richard Mills assumes no warranty, liability or guarantee for the current relevance, correctness or completeness of any information provided within this Report and will not be held liable for the consequence of reliance upon any opinion or statement contained herein or any omission. Furthermore, I, Richard Mills, assume no liability for any direct or indirect loss or damage or, in particular, for lost profit, which you may incur as a result of the use and existence of the information provided within this Report. 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. U.S.- Mexico - Canada Trade Agreement Now that the most disastrous aspects of NAFTA have been removed from the new U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement; traders, business managers and the public will get to see the true sentiments of the globalists, who will feel the pain of losing their special commercial protections. Restricting genuine free trade has always been the main objective of the corporatists and internationalists. The basic question: has President Trump bucked the financial monopolists and transformed commerce with a dose of business reciprocity or is USMCA just a back door to establish a North American Union? Watch the press announcement, President Trump Delivers Remarks on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Now read the USMCA, United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement Text for the specifics. For an in-depth and excellent critical analysis review the account, New NAFTA: Text of U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) Revealed, by Christian Gomez in the New American. "USMCA will not help the United States, Mexico, or Canada be more competitive individually or boost any one of three countries' economies. The Deep State does not wish for the United States alone to be competitive with the rest of the world, or maintain global economic dominance; instead it must surrender its sovereignty along with that of its neighbors to a new supranational body that will supposedly protect North American jobs, industry, and economy. Rather than putting America first, as President Trump has repeatedly promised, or to Make America Great Again, his new NAFTA, the USMCA, demotes the United States to second tier in pursuit of making North America great. The USMCA makes North America great at the expense of the United States and its national sovereignty. Under this scheme, the United States will be required to surrender its sovereignty in order for a chance to be a member of the winning team. Americans have been lied to and duped by their government into believing that their elected leaders are working in their interest, only to subordinate America's interests to those of North America. It's only a matter of time before the same charade is pulled on North America in order to integrate it with the world's other regional trade blocs (i.e. the European Union, African Union, Union of South America, Eurasian Economic Union, RCEP, TPP, T-TIP) into one world economic union and commission, under the auspices of the United Nations and the World Trade Organization." In the vanguard of resistance is the flagship of the 'Capitalist Tool', Forbes. Kenneth Rapoza cites in Trump Renames NAFTA, But What's So Great About New Trade Deal. "According to one Republican Senator, some provisions in the USMCA diminish NAFTAs economic benefit for some sectors and create uncertainty, says Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa). "I am concerned about the weakening of protections for U.S. investors; new arbitrary wage mandates on auto imports; side deals establishing quotas on automobile and automobile parts imported from Mexico and Canada; and a failure to eliminate (Section 232 national security) tariffs on steel and aluminum," he says, adding that he will be reviewing the USMCA to better gauge whether the new deal is an overall positive. He said NAFTA was an "enormous economic benefit" for his state, a state which surprisingly went for Trump in 2016." The Gomez assessment warns that Trump is really serving the interests of the global elites, one world government, while the Rapoza viewpoint would just prefer to keep the NAFTA agreement in place. Both share that the perfect only exists in a business transaction between two private individuals. Since a national economy cannot prosper solely on garage sale transactions, the small business ventures that employ the bulk of the work force need to benefit from any trade agreement for it to be a success. If corporations do not move their R & D, manufacturing, distribution and marketing functions back within our own borders, the United States will never achieve the revival of the middle class. Yet if society relies upon Congress to engage in legislative efforts for sound and productive trade rules and regulations, the country will be disappointed. USMCA may not gain enough votes to pass. Bipartisan opposition may well be the new cooperative spectacle. At the core of any of these establishment trade arrangements is that the World Trade Organization operates as an arbitrary judge, jury and executioner for any disputes that vary from the globalist agenda. President Trump has not proposed leaving the WTO. If mustering the needed votes to approve USMCA will be a challenge, just what are the chances that Congress would dare withdraw from the World Trade Organization? One need not have to look to the Deep State to identify the ultimate protectionists. The entire social structure among the beltway professional parasites is beholden to the bankster power elite who want the New World Order to advance according to their schedule. President Trump has adopted the role of national salesman. USMCA was negotiated as a trade agreement that would enhance the financial position of the U.S. Such bargaining never gains the support of all interest groups. America First is denigrated within establishment circles but is deemed as seditious when it becomes a component of a trade agreement. Expecting a wholesale transformation of foreign trade rules to reflect the interest of ordinary citizens is naive. Not until the autocrats are removed from power and influence, can there be a bona fide level playing field for trade. Tangible national sovereignty has not existed since before the days of Alexander Hamilton. Debating the merits or vices within USMCA misses the integral context that international trade agreements superimpose bogus authority over our own economic independence. Phony political fights over provisions in USMCA will become a parlor game before Congress gives its stamp of approval. Even if they vote down the arrangement, the next alternation will benefit the corporate globalists. Do not be deceived. Trade agreements are instruments of business exclusion, not incentives for innovative enterprise. On balance the elimination of NAFTA is long overdue. It will take years to determine how the marketplace will judge USMCA. SARTRE Source: http://batr.org/merchantry/100218.html Discuss or comment about this essay on the BATR Forum http://www.batr.org "Many seek to become a Syndicated Columnist, while the few strive to be a Vindicated Publisher" 2018 Copyright BATR - All Rights Reserved Disclaimer: The above is a matter of opinion provided for general information purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Information and analysis above are derived from sources and utilising methods believed to be reliable, but we cannot accept responsibility for any losses you may incur as a result of this analysis. Individuals should consult with their personal financial advisors 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. One year ago, the Catalan independence referendum on 1 October became a turning point in the whole political situation in Catalonia and throughout the Spanish state. What we call the Republican October was characterised by an abrupt entry of the masses into the political arena. It saw an impressive mobilisation from below that challenged the apparatus of the state and the hesitation of the leaders of the Generalitat, becoming one of the most important challenges faced by the 1978 regime in 40 years. A year later, the members of the Catalan government that called the referendum are either in jail without bail (awaiting trial for rebellion) or in exile. Dozens of republican activists have been indicted on charges ranging from incitement of hatred to terrorism, and some have also been forced into exile. There is a permanent threat that the Spanish state might intervene and suspend the devolved powers of Catalan institutions. The Catalan government accepts the limits set by the Spanish state. Neither forgive, nor forget The anniversary of 1 October referendum was marked with road blockades and street actions on the part of the Committees for the Defence of the Referendum which sprung up a year ago. Students went on strike and marched, 50,000 strong, through the streets of Barcelona. In the evening, hundreds of thousands marched in Barcelona and other cities under the slogan October 1st, neither forgive nor forget. The mood was militant and defiant, but also very critical of the independence movement leaders in the Catalan government. There is growing frustration at the PDECat and ERC talking about making the Catalan Republic a reality, but in practice confining themselves to the limits determined by the Spanish state / Image: fair use There is growing frustration at the fact that the parties backing the current government in Barcelona (the nominally pro-independence PDECat and ERC) talk about making the Catalan Republic a reality and implementing the will of the people expressed in the referendum, but in practice confine themselves to the limits determined by the Spanish state. At the rally at the end of the demonstration, the Catalan president Quim Torra was booed. The people rule, the government obeys was the slogan heard. Later the Catalan police (Mossos) charged against groups of pro-independence activists who reached the doors of the Catalan Parliament and also outside the main police station in Via Laietana. The brutality of police repression against independence supporters (and its leniency when faced with far-right provocateurs) has led to calls for the resignation of Catalan Interior, Minister Miquel Buch. Drawing the lessons A growing number of people in the independence movement are coming to the realisation that it is necessary to draw all the lessons from what happened a year ago. Hundreds-of-thousands of ordinary people, organised from below, through committees, guaranteed the opening of polling stations, defying the might of the Spanish state. They defended them in the face of brutal police intervention. Without these efforts, there would have been no referendum. The strategy of the leaders of the Catalan government amounted to calling the referendum in the hope of using it as a bargaining tool with the Spanish state, or forcing the intervention of the EU if that failed. The idea of mass civil disobedience never entered their calculations. The one thing that changed everything was the decisive entry of the masses into the scene, on 1 October and then during the 3 October general strike. The movement acquired insurrectionary features. The Spanish state had vowed to prevent the referendum from taking place and used the might of their armed bodies of men to that effect. They failed. The referendum took place. The people had won. The day after, the petty-bourgeois, nationalist politicians formally at the head of the movement were paralysed. They vacillated and dithered. On 10 October, they declared the Republic, but immediately announced the declaration suspended. They called on the Spanish state to negotiate. The Spanish state issued an ultimatum. The Catalan government vacillated again. Finally, on 27 October, they finally declared the Republic but simply as a symbolic gesture, without any intention nor any plan to defend it. Some went into exile, others waited to be removed from their positions and then arrested. The Spanish state did not vacillate. It moved to disband the Catalan government and Parliament and called early elections. The pro-independence parties won the election again, but the Spanish justice vetoed the formation of a new Catalan government until a president was chosen that was not indicted for his participation in the referendum. The Catalan Parliaments pro-independence majority protested, but accepted the limitations imposed by the Spanish state. Against capitalism, for the Catalan Republic! The constant vacillations and backtracking on the part of the petty-bourgeois nationalists have led to a mood of frustration but also a growing opposition against them amongst the ranks of the Catalan republican movement. The Committees for the Defence of the Republic and the CUP have gone from taking their own separate initiatives in mobilising the masses, to coming into opposition with the Catalan government during the events marking the first anniversary of the referendum. The struggle for a Catalan Republic and against the 1978 regime can only be successful if it uses revolutionary methods and an anti-capitalist character / Image: fair use The Catalan independence referendum a year ago is full of lessons. In the context of the Spanish state of the 1978 regime, self-determination can only be achieved by revolutionary means. The people used such means, mass mobilisations: rank-and-file organisation, direct action and general strikes. The petty-bourgeois nationalist politicians were not prepared to go down that road and led the movement to a cul-de-sac. The conclusion is clear: for the movement to go forward it requires a leadership that is firmly based on the methods the people used a year ago to guarantee the referendum took place. Through their own experiences, thousands of activists are coming to that conclusion. The CDRs and the CUP have an enormous responsibility on their shoulders. On the anniversary of the referendum, the protest actions started to take an anti-capitalist character, with rallies outside banks, direct action against home repossessions and the closing down of the Barcelona stock exchange. This is the way forward. The struggle for a Catalan Republic and against the 1978 regime can only be successful if it uses revolutionary methods and adopts an anti-capitalist profile, one that would draw solidarity and support from the rest of the Spanish state. The National Institutes of Health have awarded a $10 million contract to the University of Montana to develop a new universal flu vaccine. The five-year award went to Dr. Jay Evans, director of UMs Center for Translational Medicine and a research professor in the Division of Biological Sciences. The contract is titled "Development of TRAC-478: A Synthetic Dual TLR Adjuvant Combination System." Inimmune http://www.inimmune.com is a biotech company located at the Universitys business incubator, MonTEC. Efforts at Inimmune will be led by Dr. Kendal Ryter, the companys vice president of manufacturing and development. http://news.umt.edu/2018/10/100318vaci.php Morgan County Sheriffs Office Daily Call Reports Audio Article Editors Note: The following are initial incident reports from callers to a Morgan County Sheriffs Office Dispatcher. Any details, charges or situations may have been distorted by the caller, or perhaps may have been found to be different after the officer further investigated the incident. Monday, July 12, 2021 ... Honoring Veterans: Stories and memories of those who have served Audio Article When people are asked the question, What does Veterans Day mean to you? you get many answers such as, It is a holiday, a holiday with a day off, a holiday they dont have to work. And then you hear the real reason: to honor veterans that we have in... HINDSIGHT 2021 Audio Article 10 Years Ago (2011) The Morgan Junior Lady Raiders soccer team finished their 5-5-2 season in first place in the B bracket tournament held at Kids America in Coshocton. Coached by Alicia Heigley, the members of the winning team included Jessica Conner, Emma Heigley, Cira Myers, Breylan Pierce, Baylie... ODOT crews gearing up for winter weather Audio Article Most Ohioans aren't thinking about snow and ice yet, but that's not the case at the Ohio Department of Transportation. ODOT is making sure its equipment is ready for another winter. Statewide, nearly 300 mechanics are conducting 150-point checks on everything from the plow blade to the salt spinner on... MEMBERS OF THE TRIPLE NICKLE CHAPTER Audio Article Members of the Triple Nickle Chapter of the Independent Bikers of America donated $1,500 to Washington-Morgan Community Action to assist veterans in Morgan County who are experiencing housing instability. Members representing the chapter include Ray Ray, Tonto, Rowdy, Maverick, Pink Floyd, and On Call. Sorry! An active online subscription is... Grand jury issues indictments in Morgan County Audio Article On June 21, 2021, a Morgan County grand jury indicted Amanda Wallace (DOB: May 20, 1994) on a count of failure to comply with order or signal of police officer, a third-degree felony. The jury said that Wallace recklessly operated a motor vehicle so as willfully to elude or flee... The exhibition, which will run through October 15 at Ho Guom Centre for Culture and Information, is the fourth solo exhibition by the cameraman and photographer Nguyen Huu Tuan. Choosing photography as a language to express his thoughts, Tuans pictures tell visitors about where he has visited, whom he has met, and what made them fall into the northern land of Vietnam. On the occasion, Tuan granted an interview to Nhan Dan (People) Weekly Newspaper to talk more about the exhibition and his photography career. Your photos on display at the exhibition have impressed visitors with their composition, lighting, and the clever use of different shades of black and white, as well the way they are arranged without no legends or captions. Why did you choose such an open way to display your exhibits? I first visited Dong Van by chance. The trip brought me a mixture of profound feelings and a fresh experience, which urged me to tell others about what I met across the plateau. Resultantly, I have returned this land many times with my cameras. During one of the later trips, I brought a filmmaking camera to better convey my feelings to the people. It is not an expensive or modern camera, but it helped me produce a documentary with my true emotions in my expected language. Works on display at the A Letter to Dong Van exhibition are back-and white pictures and all of them were captured by film cameras. Half of them, displayed on the second floor of the exhibiting space, were printed, coated and illuminated entirely manually in a darkroom. The rest, showcased on the first floor and outside of the exhibition hall, were processed in the lab I didnt name or write captions for the photos because I think it is unnecessary. I just simply photograph in a way to tell the story of Dong Van. Peoples Artist Dang Nhat Minh has described you as an artist who is interested in seeking humble and idyllic beauty seen in everyday life rather than chasing gaudy or flashy things. Do you think that this is the correct description? Not only in A Letter from Dong Van, I have always intended to take photos of the most humble images and moments. My photos do not capture a hot or a pressing issue or animated movements. However, they are real. I never set up or arrange my photos because nothing is more natural and beautiful than life happening around us. By admiring photos at the exhibition, you can see that I was touched by the calm of a woman sitting on the side of the road, the serene scene of children tending their ox, or the joy of a poor family carrying a bunch of apricots. I cherish and appreciate every moment, because I can see my characters love and confidence in life. As HMong people are not talkative, my photos do not generate noisy moments. I was not too curious to search for any strange features in their customs in order to satisfy the desire of an uptown man when he visits a remote area. Contrary to many people, I consider that attitude as a way which can hurt the indigenous identity of the local people. Among your vast number of photos you have taken, are any of them products of fortune? I have developed a steadfast decision in film cameras and I havent taken many photos. Each of them is taken with a clear intention and careful consideration. To successfully take a photo, I have to wait a long time, to catch the calmest meditation of the character while nailing an exact composition, as well as the proper shade of the black and white colours. That is not to mention the suspense lasted several days, when I did not know how the quality of the image would be until it was printed. After hours in the darkroom, the biggest reward I have received from my work is always a sense of surprise. That's it. There might be a stroke of good fortune in my work sometimes, but I think that fortune only comes to those who are prepared and look for it. Thank you so much for your interview. Selected photos on display at the Thu Dong Van (A Letter from Dong Van) exhibition: During a reception in Hanoi on October 2, the Deputy PM said that cashless payment reform is another step towards e-government, and as such the Government will pay close attention to the issue, especially for online public services payments. He said there are 78 credit organisations supplying cashless payment services and 28 others offering other mediums of payment such as e-wallet and electronic payment portals in Vietnam. Apart from facilitating payment, he said Vietnams legal regulations must ensure financial safety and prevent money laundering. The host asked Grab to send applications to Vietnams agencies to launch cashless payment services and consider expanding into logistics in the country. Tan, for his part, expressed his wishes that Vietnam would allow the opening of e-wallets without connecting to bank accounts. He suggested that e-wallets could be registered at convenience stores and the e-KYC (Know Your Customer) process would be enabled to reduce turnaround time and paperwork. He said Grab wants to assist Vietnam in building and launching online payments for public services under the e-government project. At the World Economic Forum on ASEAN 2018 held in mid-September in Hanoi, Grab also offered other suggestions on developing cashless payment to the Vietnamese Government. The first GEOSEA congress held by Vietnam is expected to bring together 500 participants, including representatives of State management agencies, research institutes, universities and geological and mineral enterprises, as well as experts in the fields of geology and minerals from the ASEAN countries. According to the ministry, the event will also attract prestigious international scientists from developed countries, such as the US, Germany, Russia, Japan, Denmark, Canada and China. It aims to enhance the cooperation and sharing of information and experience on geological research, and the exploration and exploitation of minerals and energy resources in Southeast Asia, with the relevant international organisations. Delegates at the two-day congress will discuss a series of scientific topics, including Paleontology-Stratigraphy-Sedimentology; Mineralogy-Geochemistry; Metamorphic-Magmatic Petrology; Marine Geology; Geophysics; Structural Geology-Tectonics-Metallogeny; Mineral Resources and Mining Industry; Energy Resources and Development; Hydrogeology, Water Resources and Management; Environmental Geology-Geological Heritage, Geopark; Geo-Engineering and Urban Geology; and Climate Change and Geo-Hazards. The inaugural GEOSEA was held at the University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 1972, by the four co-founding institutions, namely the Geological Society of Malaysia, Ikatan Ahli Geologi Indonesia, the Geological Society of the Philippines, and the Geological Society of Thailand. Since then, all 11 ASEAN countries have joined GEOSEA and each co-founding institution has taken turn to host the GEOSEA on a rotational basis. Vietnam joined the GEOSEA in 1978. According to Tran Minh Cu, Counsellor of the Vietnamese Embassy in Indonesia, after hearing information about the strong earthquakes, which caused serious impacts on Central Sulawesi where ten Vietnamese students were pursuing study, the Vietnamese Embassy joined hands with Indonesian authorities, including military, and the Coordinating Ministry for Political, Legal and Security Affairs to take the Vietnamese nationals out of the dangerous areas. Now they are safe in Jakarta, he said. The students had been in their dormitory when the powerful earthquakes rumbled Sulawesi island. Luckily, they had a hairbreadth escape before the building collapsed. Theyve been taken to a place near the Vietnamese Embassy where they will continue to receive support. Duong Hai Yen, one of the Vietnamese students, rejoiced at her safety, hoping that Palu city will stabilise soon. She said that her school was severely damaged, and it will take time to recover from the consequences of the earthquake. [October 02, 2018] Intelsat Announces Pricing of Senior Notes Intelsat (News - Alert) S.A. (NYSE: I) ("Intelsat"), operator of the world's first Globalized Network and leader in integrated satellite communications, today announced that its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, Intelsat Jackson Holdings S.A. ("Intelsat Jackson"), has priced a private offering of an additional $700 million aggregate principal amount of its 8.500% senior notes due 2024 (the "Notes"), which is expected to be sold to investors at 100.75% of par plus accrued interest from September 19, 2018. Intelsat Jackson intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of the additional Notes to fund the repurchase or redemption of all of Intelsat Jackson's outstanding 7.50% Senior Notes due 2021 (the "2021 Senior Notes") which are not redeemed or repurchased with the proceeds of the 8.500% senior notes due 2024 issued by Intelsat Jackson on September 19, 2018, and expects to discharge the 2021 Senior Notes in full. Intelsat Jackson expects to use any remaining net proceeds for general corporate purposes. Intelsat Jackson's obligations under the Notes are guaranteed by certain of Intelsat Jackson's subsidiaries that guarantee its obligations under its senior secured credit facilities, its 9.50% Senior Secured Notes due 2022, and its 8.00% Senior Secured Notes due 2024. In addition, Intelsat, Intelsat Investment Holdings S.a r.l., Intelsat Holdings S.A., Intelsat Investments S.A., Intelsat (Luxembourg) S.A. and Intelsat Connect Finance S.A., which are direct or indirect parent companies of Intelsat Jackson, are guarantors of the Notes but are under no obligation to continue such guarantees. The offering of the Notes is expected to close on 16 October 2018, subject to customary conditions. The Notes will be offered and sold to qualified institutional buyers in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and to persons outside the United States in accordance with Regulation S under the Securities Act and applicable exemptions from registration, prospectus or like requirements under the laws and regulations of the relevant jurisdictions outside the United States. The Notes will not be registered under the ecurities Act and, unless so registered, may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. The Notes will also not be registered in any jurisdiction outside of the United States and no action or steps will be taken to permit the offer of the Notes in any such jurisdiction where any registration or other action or steps would be required to permit an offer of the Notes. The Notes may therefore not be offered or sold in any such jurisdiction except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the relevant requirements of laws and regulations of such jurisdictions. No prospectus as required by the Directive 2003/71/EC (and the implementing laws and regulations in the relevant member states) has been filed with respect to the Notes and therefore no offers of Notes may be made in any Member States of the European Economic Area unless made pursuant to an exemption under the Directive 2003/71/EC (and the implementing laws and regulations in the relevant Member States). This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the Notes or any other securities of Intelsat or its subsidiaries, nor will there be any offer, solicitation or sale of the Notes in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. About Intelsat Intelsat S.A. (NYSE: I) operates the world's first Globalized Network, delivering high-quality, cost-effective video and broadband services anywhere in the world. Intelsat's Globalized Network combines the world's largest satellite backbone with terrestrial infrastructure, managed services and an open, interoperable architecture to enable customers to drive revenue and reach through a new generation of network services. Thousands of organizations serving billions of people worldwide rely on Intelsat to provide ubiquitous broadband connectivity, multi-format video broadcasting, secure satellite communications and seamless mobility services. The end result is an entirely new world, one that allows us to envision the impossible, connect without boundaries and transform the ways in which we live. Intelsat Safe Harbor Statement Statements in this news release, including statements regarding the note offering, constitute "forward-looking statements" that do not directly or exclusively relate to historical facts. When used in this release, the words "may," "will," "might," "should," "expect," "plan," "anticipate," "project," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "intend," "potential," "outlook," and "continue," and the negative of these terms, and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. The forward-looking statements reflect Intelsat's intentions, plans, expectations, anticipations, projections, estimations, predictions, outlook, assumptions and beliefs about future events and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of Intelsat's control. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements include known and unknown risks. Known risks include, among others, the risks described in Intelsat's annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2017, and its other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and risks and uncertainties related to our ability to consummate the note offering. Because actual results could differ materially from Intelsat's intentions, plans, expectations, anticipations, projections, estimations, predictions, assumptions and beliefs about the future, you are urged to view all forward-looking statements with caution. Intelsat does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181002006104/en/ [ Back To www.mobilitytechzone.com\broadband-stimulus's Homepage ] According to statistics from the Department of Overseas Labour (DoLAB) under the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, roughly 16,080 employees (5,626 female) departed to work overseas in September alone. Japan, Chinese Taipei and the Republic of Korea (RoK) are among the top largest host markets for Vietnamese overseas workers. With regard to the Korean market, a report from the Vietnam Labour Management Board in the RoK read that by the end of June, the number of Vietnamese labourers working in the RoK under its Employment Permit System for Hiring Foreign Workers (EPS) counted 38,331. Under its set quota for receiving foreign labourers in 2018, the RoK is expected to host 3,500 Vietnamese labourers to work in its manufacturing sector, not including agriculture and fisheries. Vietnam sets to send 110,000 workers to work overseas this year. Education Montgomery County Community College will present the spring installment of the interview/talk show program Issues and Insights April 20 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. in Science Center room 214, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The programs will be simulcast to the Colleges West Campus in South Hall room 216, 101 College Drive, Pottstown. Dr. Kolsky will offer a humorous presentation, Carrots, Sticks and Politics: A State of the Nation and the World Message. In this speech, he will provide his interpretation of domestic and international politics and then welcome questions from the audience for discussion. Issues and Insights, is free and open to the public. For information, contact Dr. Thomas Kolsky, professor of political science, at 215-641-6380 or tkolsky@mc3.edu. Montgomery County Community Colleges STEM Scholars Program will host a STEM Jam! open house April 25 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Advanced Technology Center at the Colleges Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The drop-in event is designed for students interested in learning more about careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Activities will include STEM program information and career advising, STEM speakers throughout the day from industry and academia, micro-helicopter and robotics competitive obstacle courses and demonstrations and static models of STEM student and faculty work. For more information about STEM Jam! or STEM programs at MCCC, contact William Brownlowe at wbrownlowe@mc3.edu or 215-641-6644, or Robin Zuhlke at 215-619-7440 or rzuhlke@mc3.edu. Temple Ambler, located at 580 Meetinghouse Road, presents the following events: International Club Global Bazaar April 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. The Ambler Campus International Club invites all students, faculty, staff and the community to celebrate a multitude of diverse cultures, which will be showcased at the organizations Global Bazaar. This family friendly event will highlight cultural traditions and celebrations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, South American, North America and Africa through music, entertainment, food and informative displays developed and presented by students at the Ambler Campus. Young visitors will be provided with passports, which they may get stamped at each country they visit. Prizes will be awarded to world travelers who talk to cultural representatives, answer questions about the countries theyve visited and take part in fun-filled activities designed to help them learn about the rich diversity of cultures found throughout the world. Refreshments will be served. The event is free. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail tuc36466@temple.edu. EarthFest 2011 April 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. More than 75 exhibitors, including the Philadelphia Zoo, The Franklin Institute, the Academy of Natural Sciences, the Elmwood Park Zoo and the Insectarium, will take part in EarthFest 2011. School students of all ages are invited to attend and develop displays of their own. EarthFest partner the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society also offers its Kids Grow Expo, featuring the Junior Flower Show, as part of the event. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail duffyj@temple.edu. Annual Spring Plant Sale May 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The plant sale an Ambler Campus tradition dating back to the early 1900s will feature woody plants and perennials in portable sizes, hardy trees, shrubs, and vines, native plants that are attractive to wildlife, herbs, and hanging baskets. There will also be numerous special plants for sale to highlight Amblers special anniversary year. Garden books and garden tools will also be available for sale. Students, staff, and volunteers from the Department of Landscape Architecture and Horticulture and the Ambler Arboretum Advisory Committee will be available to answer questions. All proceeds from the Spring Plant Sale will support the Ambler Arboretum Fund and the Pi Alpha Xi National Honor Society. Information: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary. June Homecoming/Louise Bush-Brown Garden Dedication June 5 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. (June Homecoming), Bright Hall Lounge; 2 p.m. (Garden Dedication), Ambler Campus Formal Perennial Gardens. Tickets June Homecoming: Participant $18 per person; Sustainer $25 per person; Benefactor $40 per person. The 2011 June Homecoming, sponsored by the School of Environmental Design Alumni Association, will include the Alumni Association annual meeting and luncheon. June Homecoming will be followed by the formal dedication of Temple University Amblers Formal Perennial Gardens as the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Gardens. During this 100th anniversary of the campus, Temple University Ambler and the Ambler Arboretum of the Temple University is honoring Louise Bush-Browns many contributions to the history of the campus by formally dedicating the gardens in her honor. During the program, campus Executive William Parshall will welcome guests, Ambler Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey will speak about the Bush-Browns and the history of the garden, and an official ribbon cutting will be held for the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Garden. Following the ribbon cutting, guests are invited to take a tour of the gardens, which will wend their way to the Campus Greenhouse for the School of Environmental Designs annual Plant Auction. Information (Garden Dedication): 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Information (June Homecoming): 215-482-0722. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary. Northview Garden Tour and Fundraiser for the Ambler Arboretum June 12 from noon to 5 p.m. Call for reservations. Tickets: $15 per person or $20 at the door. In addition to the gardens of the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University, Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey has a garden oasis all her own right in Ambler Northview. Visitors will have the opportunity to take self-guided tours throughout the many gardens, where garden experts will be available to answer questions about the various designs. The Ambler Keystone Chapter of the Womans National Farm and Garden Association will also provide tea and refreshments. All proceeds from the tours will support the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University. Information or to register: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary. The Senior Adult Activities Center of Montgomery County, 536 George Street, Norristown, will hold the following events: SAAC Adult Day Care, an alternative to Nursing Home Care is available for information call 610-275-1960 Volunteers are needed for Meals on Wheels Program (call the number above) SAACs Fifth Avenue Boutique opens Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Exercise with Theresa will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1 p.m. Dance class is held every Monday at 10 a.m. Tai Chi is held every Monday at 10 a.m. Yoga is held every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Line Dancing is held every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Dancing with Joan is held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Sculpture Class is held Wednesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Why Should I Learn Spanish? will be held Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. Generations On-Line computer classes for seniors will be held Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. 4 p.m. computers are available during those hours. Health Living will be held every Tuesday at 1 p.m. Boomer U will hold the following events. Boomer U is located at 45 Forest Avenue, Ambler. Registration & payment is required for all events: 215-619-8863. Pilates Class is held Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. First class is free; please bring a mat. For information call 610-291-5376. Blue Bell School of Dance, 921 Penllyn Blue Bell Pike, Blue Bell, hosts Argentine Tango Classes and a Milonga dance party every Friday evening. Lessons start at 8:30 p.m. followed by dancing at 9:30 p.m. Andrew Conway, master Argentine Tango dancer, instructor and performer and his partner Linda Chase will instruct. All levels welcome and no partner is needed. Refreshments will be served. Fee is $12 per person and includes lesson and dancing. Information: 215-634-1101 or www.amoretango.com. The Montgomery Hospital Medical Center will offer the following classes: Childbirth Education Class- all parents are invited to participate, including those who are delivering at other hospitals. For more information on maternity services or classes, call 610-270-2020. CPR and First Aid Courses are offered for beginners to experiences health care providers. Call 610-270-2313. The Ambler SAAC (Senior Adult Activities Center), located at 45 Forest Ave in Ambler will hold the following events: Tai Chi every Monday and Thursday at 11 a.m. Yoga is every Tuesday at 1 p.m. and Friday at 10:30 a.m. Strength and balance training every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Armchair Aerobics is held every Monday at 10 a.m. Gourmet Weight Wise every Thursday at 12:30. Fitness Center and Pool Room open daily 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The Diabetes Education Center will offer day and evening classes each month. Health insurance pays for diabetes education classes. Preregistration is required. Call 610-270-2301. For Kids & Families The Ambler Kiwanis Club will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt April 26 at 10 a.m. in Ambler Borough Park, located just off of the intersection of Hendricks Street and Valley Brook Road. Members of the Wissahickon Key Club will assist Kiwanians in hiding thousands of wrapped chocolate eggs in a designated area of the park. Also hidden will be plastic colored eggs, which are redeemed for prizes. Elementary school children are separated by age. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation will hold its 21st annual Storybook Egg-Stravaganza April 15 fom 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Upper Dublin Township Building. Toddlers and preschoolers love this annual event where photo opportunities with favorite friends abound! Treasures are collected from UDP&Rs assortment of lifesize cutouts of favorite cartoon characters from Disney, Sesame Street, Nickelodeon and other well-known animation. Children can have their picture taken with Bugsy OHare; bring your own camera. And dont forget a basket for goodies! $7 for UD residents; $12 for non-residents. Pre-register at 215-643-1600 ext. 3443. Splash Week is a free week-long program that teaches children and families basic swimming skills and water safety practices. All YMCA branches will host multiple classes each day from April 11 to 15. For more information, contact the Ambler Area YMCA at 215-628-9950. Healthy Kids Day is April 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The day is filled with fun, engaging and artistic activities that cultivate healthy living as part of the YMCAs larger efforts to help more kids and families become physically active. All activities are free and open to the community. For more information, contact the Ambler YMCA at 215-628-9950. No reservation is required. The Ambler Area YMCA has added several new programs for area youngsters. Classes are held late afternoons or evenings on various weekdays. For more information, visit philaymca.org or call 215-628-9950. Basic Beading: Ages: 10+. Wednesdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. This class will teach you the fundamentals of wiring and stringing along with how color can be used to create unique and vibrant beadwork design. You will create various jewelry including earrings, bracelets, charm pendants and much more! Supplies will be provided. Bringing your own jewelry pliers or tools would be a plus. Messin with the Masters: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. Learn about some of the worlds greatest artists. You will be inspired to create your own Starry Night with oil pastels and tempera paints, a tissue paper painted Monet garden, a Picasso head using scraps of paper, a Georgia OKeeffe clay flower bowl and a Rousseau jungle collage. Super Scientist: Ages: 5-7. Mondays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Well be concocting chemistry experiments such as making slime, mixing potions and having fun with magnet magic. Your budding little scientist will enhance his/her creative thinking and motor skills and to top it off will learn that science can be serious fun. Wacky Junk Art: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 6 to 6:45 p.m. Why throw it away! Instead join us to make household junk into aliens from outer space, wacky specs, crazy hats, body masks or a recycled train. Globe Trotters: Ages: 4-6. Tuesdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Youre never too young to start thinking globally. Each week, we explore a new country through crafts, games, music, stories and even some taste-testing. A perfect introduction to our great big world! Crazy about Crafts: Ages: 5-7, Thursdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Let your childs creative juices flow with our fun arts and crafts projects each week. Fine motor skills and creative thinking skills will be enhanced with this crafty class. Come out and join the Ambler Area YMCAs Teen and Junior Leaders Club. Participants are given the freedom to plan community service projects year round and truly make a difference in the lives of people in need. Those in Teen and Junior Leaders also attend leadership retreats all along the East Coast three times a year and meet other leaders who are doing the same great work in their respective areas. Dont miss out on this inspiring opportunity. Teen Leaders, ages 13-17, meet every Wednesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Junior Leaders, ages 10-12, will begin in the spring and will meet every Monday. For more information, contact Mike Miles, Teen Director, 215- 628-9950 x 1540 or mmiles@philaymca.org. Did you know that the new Ambler Area YMCA holds childrens birthday parties at its site for members and non members as well. The Ambler Y does all the work from start to finish and birthday parties include a personalized cake, ice cream, beverage and paper products. Parties are held on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and include two party hosts to lead activities, set-up, clean-up and assist with serving. You can have a Splash Party for children ages six to 12 in the new zero depth entry pool with water slide and spray fountains. Up to 25 children have exclusive use of the pool area with 30 minutes in the party room. Sports Parties are offered for kids ages four to 12 with age appropriate activities and games, and sports such as floor hockey, soccer, basketball or dodge ball. Children ages three to five years of age will enjoy parties in the Family Active Center with use of the Moon Bounce and organized activities, such as parachute play and songs. For information, 215-628-9950 ext. 1583. Community Events at the Ambler Y: -YAchievers YMCA Achievers is a developmentally based, extracurricular, educational and team mentoring program designed to help students in grades five through 12 prepare for fulfilled livelihoods in college and beyond. Participation is free and all students in this program receive a free YMCA membership. Registration for the 2009 program begins now. You do not need to be a YMCA member to utilize these special services. Call 215-628-9950 to register. Greater Norristown Art Leagues Childrens Weeklong Summer Art Camps will be held at 800 West Germantown Pike in East Norriton, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday throughout the summer. The cost per session is $125 per student for ages 6 and up. Jo Ann Cooksey Bono teaches an introduction to basic drawing skills and techniques from 10 a.m. until the lunch break each day. In the afternoon sessions, Mary Vogel Lozinak involves the students in hands on projects such as collage, papermaking, T-shirt printing, 3D design and sculpy clay. Fridays Graduation Day includes an art show, awards ceremony and reception for parents, siblings, grandparents and friends. All supplies are included. Students provide their own lunch. A refrigerator is available and the building is air-conditioned. This is the 15th year to run this successful program. Both instructors are professional artists with State Police and Child Abuse Clearances. To register, call Jo Ann at 610-279-1008, or register on-line at www.gnal.org. Health Dresher Physical Therapy is hosting an interactive seminar discussing its Golf Assessment Progam April 30 from 10 a.m. to noon at Dresher Physical Therapy, 1075 Virginia Drive, Suite 200, Fort Washington. Physical therapist Chris Miller, certified through the Titleist Performance Institute, will discuss why your body may be the most important piece of golf equipment you invest in and how this can drastically improve your game. $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Call 215-619-4545 to reserve your spot. The Chestnut Hill Center for Enrichment, Center on the Hill and Chestnut Hill Hospital will host a Senior Health and Resource Fair April 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Ave. The event is free. For more information, call 215-248-0180 or e-mail chseniors@cavtel.net. The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is hosting Help Yourself to Health, a new six-week workshop for older adults with ongoing health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, anxiety, heart disease and others. The free workshop will take place at the Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center, 45 Forest Ave. on six Thursdays, May 12 through June 16 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Although there is no charge to participate, registration is required. To register, call 215-619-8863. The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is sponsoring an eight-week program called A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls. Presented by the Montgomery County Health Department, this workshop will be held on Tuesdays, May 3 to June 21 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ambler Center, 45 Forest Ave. If you pre-register by April 27, the fee is only $5! Registration at the first class is $10. (Checks should be payable to SAAC and will benefit our Meals on Wheels program that serves homebound seniors.) A workbook will be provided and refreshments will be served. Call 215-619-8863 to register or for more information. Fort Washington Wellness Center classes are ongoing. There are several offered during lunch or right after work, for your convenience: Boot Camp from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday; Zumba is MWF from 11 a.m. to noon and Friday at 4 p.m.; there are 25 cycling classes; Ashtanga and Vinyasana Yoga and Pilates; and a group Womens Strength Training class M-F from 10 to 11 a.m. Questions, call Cathy DeMarco at 215-641-1245. Following the success of other local area programs, Impact Sports and Upper Dublin Parks and Recreation are delighted to team up again to offer a spring program for the 2011 season! Upper Dublin area children ages 3-5 years old can attend a Sports Program featuring their favorite sports games; soccer, rugby, hockey, track and field, basketball, and more. The program will start on April 27 and run through June 1. Cost for the program is $85 for the six weeks. The classes will be running 12- 1 p.m.; 1- 2 p.m.; 2- 3 p.m. For more info or to register, call Upper Dublin Township on 215 643 1600 or visit their website a http://www.upperdublin.net. Spring Aquatic Programs UDHS Pool: -Summer is just around the corner Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool can help get you into shape! Programs begin in March; preregistration is required. Shallow Water Aerobics Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 8-8:45 p.m., $40R/$50NR. Adult Swim Instructions Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 7-8 p.m., $50R/$60NR -Open Rec Swims are fun for the whole family! Come out on Fridays from 7-9 p.m. or Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. and enjoy use of the pool and diving area. Fridays are offered through June 17; Saturdays are offered March 12-May 21. -Join a growing group of adult lap swimmers and water walkers. Lanes are set aside evenings and weekends for use; lanes are shared. Monday Thursday from 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Fridays from 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays (March 12-May 21) from 1-4 p.m. -Private Swimming & Diving Lessons for ages 3-adult are offered at the UDHS Pool through a partnership with the Upper Dublin Aquatic Club (UDAC). Visit the UDAC website for more information, www.udac.us, and click the link to UDHS Private Lessons. -Looking for local programs for US Masters Swimming (adults) or Water Polo (all ages)? UDAC and UDSD are working together to develop programs that will be offered at the UDHS Pool. Add your name to Interest Lists by emailing slohoefer@upperdublin.net. emails will be sent about clinics and program start dates. Questions about Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool, group use of the pool or pool rental? Contact Susan Lohoefer, Facility & Community Affairs Manager at slohoefer@upperdublin.net or call 215-643-8800 x8994. SilverSneakers Fitness Program. The Healthyways SilverSneakers Fitness Program is a result-oriented program that enables older adults to take charge of their health. The program is an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially oriented programing. Members of the program are eligible for a free YMCA membership, with use of the pool and exercise equipment, along with customized classes designed for older adults who want to improve their strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. If you are a subscriber to Independence Blue Cross (Personal Choice 65 PPO) or Keystone 65 HMO, Bravo Health, or Health Options Programs (HOP), call the Ambler Area YMCA, 215-628-9950 or Hatboro Area YMCA, 215-674-4545. You can also visit www.silversneakers.com. Zumba Fitness offers Zumba dance/fitness classes at Academy of Dance and Music/BBAD Studio located at 1524 DeKalb Pike in Blue Bell (behind Sherwin Williams). Classes are offered three times a week: Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 8 a.m. For a free trial pass for your first class, email us at info@danceandmusic.biz or call 610-277-2557. For more info, visit our site at www.academyofdanceandmusic.org. Chestnut Hill Health Systems presents the following Health Education Programs: FITNESS CLASSES Golden Yoga: A Breathing, Stretching and Relaxation Class. Fridays, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Lea Auditorium, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. Registration for four classes at a time required. Golden Yoga is Classical Yoga, adapted by the SKY Foundation, to accommodate those who have difficulty getting up and down from the floor. The program includes postures, breathing, relaxation and meditation techniques, all performed while sitting in a chair and standing. Registration required. Call 215-247-3029. Cost: $20 for 4 classes per month. Tai Chi: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8:30 9:30 a.m. Springfield Residence, 8601 Stenton Ave. Classes, for the novice or beginner/intermediate student, are designed to improve balance, power, posture, coordination, flexibility and mental focus. Slow, gentle movements are modified to most everyones abilities. For more information or to sign up for a free introductory class, call 215-882-2804. Cost: $8 per class/paid monthly. SUPPORT GROUPS Weight Loss Surgery Support Group: Fourth Wednesday of the month, 7-8 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. Join us for a monthly get-together where well share information for those interested in weight loss surgery, learn from guest speakers discussing current news on issues including lifestyle modification, nutrition and exercise and provide ongoing support for those who have completed surgery. Registration required. Call 215-753-2000. Breast Cancer Networking Group: Fourth Tuesday of the month 5:30 7 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. A free, confidential support group for women living with a diagnosis of breast cancer designed to provide a forum for sharing information, feelings and concerns associated with breast cancer. Facilitated by Tish Wakefield, LCSW, Oncology Social Worker. Registration required. To register or for more information, call 215-248-8047. New Moms Support Groups Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. 12 p.m.; contact Jeanine ORourke, MSW or 2:30 4 p.m.; contact Susan Schack, Ph.D Volunteer Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. The Center for Postpartum Depression at Chestnut Hill Hospital is pleased to offer two new support groups to support new moms. Both groups will be run by experienced mental health professionals who really get it when it comes to new motherhood and juggling relationships, extended family, work/family balance and self-care. If you are experiencing new mom challenges that often heighten anxiety and involve hormonally driven depression, join us for an informative and supportive forum to connect with other moms. Infants are welcome. $30 per session (flexible based on need). Registration is required. Call Dr. Schack, 646-265-2484, or Ms. ORourke, 215-206-2931. Man to Man Prostate Cancer Support Group Third Thursday of the month 8-9 a.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. A networking group for men diagnosed with prostate cancer designed to provide education, support and encouragement. Spouses and partners welcome. Harry M. Baer, MD, Chief, Urology Division, will host Ask the Doctor. Registration required. Call 215-248-8325. Contact the Senior Center by phone 215-248-0180 or email (chseniors@cavtel.net) with your questions about these programs or any of our on-going activities and classes. Holy Redeemer HomeCare and Hospice seeks compassionate and emotionally mature volunteers to provide support to local hospice patients and their families in Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. Volunteers may also assist with pet therapy and administrative work within the hospice department and are requested to have daytime availability. Hospice patient care volunteers visit with patients in their homes or nursing facilities once a week for two to three hours. They provide emotional support and companionship to patients and family members, assist with errands or provide respite for caregivers. Bereavement volunteers support the families of hospice patients following the loss of a loved one, while administrative volunteers assist with typing, mailings and/or filing. Hospice care workers provide a great service to families and loved ones of hospice patients. Many volunteers also report a great deal of personal satisfaction as a result of their services. Patient care and bereavement volunteers complete an application and attend an 18-hour volunteer training program that covers the medical, psychological and spiritual aspects of hospice volunteering. Day and evening training programs are offered. To sign up for volunteer opportunities in Pennsylvania, contact Holy Redeemer Volunteer Coordinator Jean Francis at 215-698-3737 or email jfrancis@holyredeemer.com. Librarytalk Upper Dublin Public Library, 805 Loch Alsh Avenue, Ft. Washington, 215-628-8744 www.upperdublinlibrary.org APRIL CHILDRENS PROGRAMS: Storytimes: Please register in the library. o Wee Ones: 0 to 23 months Thursdays and Fridays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m. o Tiny Tots: age 2. Wednesdays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m. and Fridays 11 to 11:20 a.m. o Jr. Book Lovers: ages 3 to 6. Tuesdays 10:30 to 11 a.m. o Bedtime Storytimes: 7 to 7:30 p.m. April 20 and 27. Wear your jammies, bring your teddy & hear Miss Barbara read bedtime stories! For ages 3 to 6. APRIL TEEN PROGRAMS: North Hills Library Teens April 28 from 4 to 6 p.m. Movie Matinee APRIL UDPL ADULT PROGRAMS: NEW! ESL Conversation Group. Tuesdays from 7 to 8 p.m. Interested in practicing your English in a safe and caring environment? Come to our conversation group and improve your skills! Please register with Kay Klocko at 215-628-8744 or kklocko@mclinc.org. One-on-One Computer Mentoring. Get personalized assistance from experienced computer volunteers! Sign-up for a one-hour session. Limit one session per month. Please register contact info above. Book Groups Please register with Kay Klocko 215-628-8744. o Daytimers: April 21 at 1:30 p.m. Tired of book groups where you all read the same book? Read any fiction or non-fiction book on this months theme: Explorers. Please register. Meetings: Annual Meeting of the Friends of UDPL: April 14 at 1 p.m. Board of Directors: April 20 at 7 p.m. Blue Bell Library www.wvpl.org Upcoming Events: The Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 650 Skippack Pike (Route 73) in Blue Bell, is diagonally across from the Blue Bell Inn. Call 215-643-1320 or visit their website at www.wvpl.org. For children and teens at Blue Bell: * Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian. * Mondays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages. * Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages. * Fridays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages. * Family Movies, new releases, second Saturdays of the month at 1:30 p.m. * May 14 Despicable Me * June 11 Alpha and Omega * Special Events * April watch for date of spring/Easter events * April 14 at 4:30 p.m. Junior Lego Club for children ages 3 through 5. Parents and caregivers need to stay with children. * April 14 at 7 p.m. Jeopardy for ages 11 to 18. Test your book and library knowledge for prizes. Sign up to be a contestant. No sign up to be in the audience. Snacks provided. * April 16 at 1 p.m. Adult Mystery Book Group discussing The Beekeepers Apprentice by Laurie King. * April 16 at 1:30 p.m. Childrens event for One Book, Every Young Child celebration. Story and craft for book Whose Shoes? * April 19 at 7 p.m. and April 26 at 1:30 p.m.- Adult book group discusses The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester. Group led by Adam Button. * April 30 through May 3 Friends book sale with about 10,000 items for sale for children, teens and adults. * May sign up for Science in the Summer * June sign up for Enrichment Programs for Elementary-Age children * June sign up for Summer Reading, all ages For adults at Blue Bell: * Daytime Book Discussion Group fourth Tuesday, Jan April at 1:30 p.m. * April 26 The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester * Night-time Book Discussion Group third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. o April 19 The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester * Art Series with Dr. Sheldon Weintraub, docent at The Barnes and speaker at local colleges o April 27 at 2 p.m. The Art of Looking at Art-Is She Nude or Is She Naked? *Mystery Book Discussion Group, third Saturday of the month at 1 p.m.; new mystery theme each month; www.wvpl.org/programs * Yoga on Mondays at 1:30 p.m. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop-in class. * Tai Chi on Mondays at 3 p.m. with Dr. Kurt Findeisen. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop in class. * Philadelphia Museum of Art presents class on their Marc Chagall exhibit, April 13 at 2 p.m. * Giant Book Sale, April 29 May 3 o Starts with almost 10,000 items for children and adults! o Held during library hours. o Preview for members of the Friends of the Library, April 28 at 7 p.m. o Join the Friends and attend the preview sale. Modest fee to join. * Blooms at Blue Bell Gardening Series o May 11 at 1 p.m. Summer Bulbs by PA Horticultural Society * Knitting group Mondays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Work on your project or observe and learn. The groups continue year-round in the community room. * Socrates Cafe discussion group every Monday at 7 p.m. You pick the topic to discuss each week. No sign-up, nothing to read. * Bridge every Friday at 12:30 p.m. New players welcome. * Mah Jong every Wednesday at 1 p.m. New players welcome. *Chess every Wednesday at 7p.m. for adults and teens 14 and older. * Movie Matinee showing recent releases every Thursday at 2 p.m. April 14: Maos Last Dancer; April 21: Welcome to the Rileys; April 28: Conviction; May 5: Inception; May 12: Inside Job; May 19 The Kings Speech; May 26 The Fighter; June 2 Rabbit Hole; June 9 Black Swan; June 16 127 Hours * Ongoing like-new, year-round book sale for adults & children during library hours * Library opening at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday! Ambler Library, a branch of the Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 209 Race St., 215-646-1072. www.wvpl.org. All the following events occur at the Ambler Library. * Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian. * Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages. * Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages. * For adults: * Beading Group meets the first and third Monday of every month at 1 p.m. Work on your own projects or come to watch and learn. * Free Family History Lookup with Connie Briggs. Email Connie for an appointment at the Ambler Library. conniebriggs@comcast.net * Special Events: * April 14 at 1:30 p.m. Book Group discusses Skeletons at the Feast by Chris Bohjalian. * April 19 at 7 p.m. Travel to Paris with world traveler Harry Balin. Tea and scones at 6:30 p.m. * April 21 at 7 p.m. Art with Sara for children in fourth through seventh grades. *May 2 at 6:30 p.m. Discuss the movie Lone Star with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time. *May 10 Robert Capucci discusses Art into Fashion. Tea and scones served at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m. *May 12 at 1:30p.m. Book Group discusses The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman. *May 17 Tour the gardens of Devon and Southwest England with Lois McMullen. Tea and Scones at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m. *June 13 at 6:30 p.m. Discuss the movie Blade Runner with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time. Meetings and Lectures The Unisys Blue Bell Retiree Group will meet in the Church on the Mall in the Plymouth Meeting Mall April 14 at 1:30 p.m. Kathy Sacket Young, director/trainer with the North Penn YMCA, will speak on Keeping Fit in Retirement. For more information, contact Membership Committee Chairperson Jerry Feldscher at 610-275-3538 or President Al Rollin at 215-368-4833. The next FWBA meeting will be April 28 at the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m.; meeting from noon to 1 p.m. Leon Singletary, Principal, First Contact HR and FWBA Executive Board, will present: Social Media: How to Use It To Get More Business. Lunch is provided courtesy of the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Members are welcome to bring a guest. An RSVP is requested by return email or 215-628-0313. Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern PA is hosting a information sessions over the next few weeks on how to become a Big Brother. The information sessions will take place: April 16 at noon, April 19 at 8 a.m. and April 28 at 6 p.m. All sessions will be held at the groups Norristown Office,t 530 DeKalb St., Norristown. For more information, call 610-277-2200. The North Penn Chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) normally meets on the third Tuesday of each month from now until May. Meetings are held at the William Penn Inn on Route 202 and Sumneytown Pike, Upper Gwynedd, PA. Social hour starts at 5:30 p.m., dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., and the technical program begins at 7 p.m. Cost with reservation is $28 for members. Members without reservations and guests pay $30. Students with reservations pay $15. Reservations may be made by noon on the Monday preceding the meeting by phoning 215-371-1854 or emailing the reservation to northpennima@yahoo.com northpennima@yahoo.com. Information about the North Penn Chapter is available at http://northpenn.imanet.org/. LeTip, a professional organization of men and women who are dedicated to the highest standards of competence and service meets every Tuesday at Cedar Brook Country Club, 180 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell at 7 a.m. -meeting officially starts at 7:16 a.m. and ends at 8:31 a.m. Our purpose is the exchange of business tips, leads, and referrals. Each business category is represented by one member and conflicts of interest are disallowed. Guests are welcome to visit any of our breakfast meetings. Every third Thursday of month, Sunrise Assisted Living of Blue Bell (795 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422, 215-619-2777) serves as a satellite site to 148th Legislative district PA congressman Mike Gerber from 10 a.m. to noon. Stop by for help needed with things such as disability placards and license plates, vehicle registration, utilities issues, birth/death certificates,property tax/rent rebates, etc. Notary services arranged by appointment. The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is an action-oriented organization dedicated to promoting its members and the economic health of eastern Montgomery county. The Chamber is committed to serving as a catalyst by uniting business, community agencies, government and education to make our county a great place to live and work. For information, call 215-887-5122 or visit www.emccc.org. Do you have a fear of public speaking? Blue Bell Toastmasters Club can help. We meet from 7 to 9 p.m., on the second and fourth Tuesday at the Marriott Courtyard, located on Route 202, directly across from the Montgomeryville Mall. Learn how to improve communication and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive environment. Guests are welcome. Admission fee: $5. For more info, visit www.bbtoast.org. The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will hold the following meetings (for reservations to any of the following, email info@PennSuburban.org) -Breakfast News Network, 7:30-8:45 a.m. at Normandy Farm Hotel (1401 Morris Road, Blue Bell, PA 19422) $15 members, includes full buffet breakfast. Join us for a networking program at Normandy Farm Hotel every Thursday morning for breakfast, business news, informative speakers, and plenty of networking. The cost includes a full breakfast buffet. Copies of the business cards will be made available to those who would like them. The BNI, Fort Washington Chapter meets every Monday at The Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington for a networking meeting. Meetings are from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Visitors are welcome. The only cost to attend is the cost of your meal. For information or a reservation to attend, please call Luanne Cram at 215-947-7784, or visit our Internet site at: http://www.BNIDVR.Com and click on the menu item Find a Chapter. For the past seven years, people have enjoyed participating in WVWAs Adopt-a-Tree program. Individuals can support the Association in its reforestation efforts by purchasing native trees to be planted. Supporters can plant their adopted tree or have WVWA volunteers will plant it. Trees cost $30 each. If you would like to volunteer or purchase a tree(s), please contact: Bob Adams at Bob@wvwa.org or call: 215-646-8866 for more information. Check www.WVWA.org for directions and maps. Sustainable Upper Dublin, http://sustainableupperdublin.org, meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at the Upper Dublin Township Building, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington, PA 19034. Please send any questions to suec@sustainableupperdublin.org or call 610-996-6316. To learn more about Sustainable Upper Dublin, view or join the discussion at http://googlegroups.com/group/sustainableupperdublin. Special Events The Mattie N. Dixon Community Cupboard will hold its first nutrition class April 19 at 10 a.m. at the Community Cupboard, 150 N. Main St., Ambler. Lynne Sinclair, a nutritionist from Abington Memorial Hospital specializing in diabetic nutrition, will conduct the class. Topics will include healthy eating, beneficial foods, recipes, making meals with every day foods, and how to use unfamiliar produce. A healthy snack will be provided.The class is is open to all residents in Montgomery County. The Historical Society of Fort Washington presents The History of Conshohocken April 19 at 8 p.m. at the Clifton House, 473 Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington. Jack Coll will present an illustrated program on the history of the Borough of Conshohocken. Coll is a longtime resident of Conshohocken and a member of the Conshohocken Historical Society. He is co-author with his son, Brian, of the Arcadia Then and Now Series book Conshohocken. He has also done books Conshohocken and West Conshohocken Sports and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Italian Feast. He has taken many photos for the Conshohocken Record and the Norristown Times Herald. This program is free. Refreshments will be served. For additional information, call 215-646-6065. Taste of the White House Soiree featuring former White House Chef Walter Scheib will take place April 29 at 6 p.m. at Manufacturers Golf & Country Club in Fort Washington to celebrate HealthLinks 10th anniversary and honor its founders, the Eugene Jackson Family. The evening will heat up with a Chef Meet & Greet, followed by a specially selected presidential menu. Gala tickets are $150 per person. Proceeds benefit HealthLink, a free clinic providing compassionate, quality medical and dental care to uninsured, working adults in Bucks and Montgomery counties who fall in between the health care cracks. Go to http://tasteofthewhitehouse.charityhappenings.org to make reservations online or lend support through sponsorship. For event information, call 267-699-0124 or email jmarushak@healthlinkmedical.org. The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association will hold an open house at the Evans-Mumbower Mill April 17 from 1 to 4 p.m. The Mill is at the corner of Swedesford and Township Line Roads in Upper Gwynedd. The open house is free but donations are welcome. For more information, call 215-646-8866 o email info@wvwa.org. The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce will host Breakfast With Your County Commissioners and State Representatives April 21 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Fort Washington, 432 W. Pennasylvania Ave. Commissioners: James R. Matthews (Chairman), Joseph M. Hoeffel (Vice Chair), State Representatives: Todd Stephens (District 151) and Josh Shapiro (District 153). Register onlineat www.emccc.org. $10 for EMCCC member; $20 for non-members. Upper Dublins Districtwide Allied Art Show will be held April 27 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. in the Upper Dublin High School Athletic Complex. The Rev. Alfred Muli, chaplain at Fort Washington Estates, will be the featured speaker at the Kiwanis sponsored breakfast observing the National Day of Prayer May 5 at 7 a.m. at the William Penn Inn. The breakfast is open to the public ($15). Reservations can be made by calling 215-646-4356 or by emailing georgesaurman@Juno.com. The Upper Dublin Shade Tree Commission invites people to participate in its spring bare root planting events, sponsored in part by Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Friends of Robbins Park. On April 9, zix trees will be planted at the Evelyn B. Wright Park & Community Pool, 401 Logan Ave., North Hills, at 9 a.m., followed by the planting of 10 trees at Sheeleigh Park, Loch Alsh Avenue and Douglas Street, Ambler, at 10:15 a.m. On April 29, students from Upper Dublin High School will join the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society to plant 16 trees in Robbins Park, Butler Pike and Meetinghouse Road, Ambler, to help launch the societys Million Trees campaign. This event will occur in conjunction with Temple Amblers EarthFest. Experienced tree-tenders are sought to assist the students. For more information,contact Ron Ayres at 215-653-0421 or 215-483-4348. The Friends of the Wissahickon and the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association are teaming up once again to clean the Wissahickon Creek from top to bottom April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon. This spring marks the 41st anniversary of Wissahickon Valley Watershed Associations annual Creek Clean Up, and the second year that FOW has teamed up with WVWA. Volunteers of all ages will clean the creek, the surrounding trails and the many tributaries of the Wissahickon Creek. Armed with bags, volunteers will be assigned to sections of the creek. Following the clean up, all volunteers are invited to WVWAs Talkin Trash picnic in Fort Washington State Park, with food provided by Whole Foods Market of North Wales. The pavilion is located on Mill Road in Flourtown. To help out in Montgomery County, all volunteers must be pre-assigned a section of the Wissahickon Creek to clean. Please contact Bob Adams, WVWA director of stewardship, at 215-646-8866 ext. 14 or bob@wvwa.org. To work with the Friends of the Wissahickon in Philadelphia, meet at the pavilion along Forbidden Drive, a short distance south of the intersection of Forbidden Drive and Northwestern Avenue. Limited parking is available along Northwestern Avenue and other nearby streets. Volunteers are encouraged to bike or carpool to the event. To participate, register at www.fow.org. Contact Kevin Groves with questions at 215-247-0417 ext. 105 or groves@fow.org. Montgomery County Community Colleges International Club invites the community to the second annual International Festival April 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The rain date is April 26. The International Club will transform the outside quad area into multicultural celebration with various performances by dancers, singers and musicians. Artists will share their artwork at various display tables. Activities include games, raffles, Easter egg decorating and henna tattoos. Students will have samples of international cuisine at tables representing different countries and will serve food from various local ethnic restaurants. Throughout the evening, volunteers will accept donations and will raffle gift baskets and prizes to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity. Donations of food, international clothes and prizes are needed. Volunteers, including artists and performers, are welcome. For more information or to sponsor an activity, contact Gillian Nel, International Club president, at gnel9277@students.mc3.edu or 267-974-0163. The Arts and Humanities Division at Montgomery County Community College is partnering with the Philadelphia Writers Conference to host Memoirs Matter: How Life Stories (Including Yours) Can Transform Your Relationship to Literature April 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. in Advanced Technology Center room 101, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The event is free and open to the public. In the first part of this two-hour seminar, professor and author Robert Waxler will explain how writing his two memoirs affected his life as well as his relationship to literature. In the second part, blogger and workshop leader Jerry Waxler will present a sequence of steps to help writers find their own story. For information, contact Dana Resente at dresente@mc3.edu. The Maple Glen Garden Club will hold its fourth annual Plant Sale on May 7 from 8 to 11 a.m. Perennials, shrubs, vegetables and native plants grown by the club members will be sold. The club uses the plant sale proceeds to fund community projects, a college scholarship and community plantings. The sale will be held in the 500 block of Coach Road, Horsham, as part of a neighborhood garage sale. Plants will be sold at bargain prices. For more information, email MapleGlenGardenClub@gmail.com. The Relay for Life Craft Show is looking for local crafters to participate in show, which will be May 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Wissahickon High School track, 521 Houston Road, Ambler. There is a $10 entry fee, and 20 percent of sales are donated to the American Cancer Society. Participants will receive a 6-foot table under a tent. For information, contact Joanne at joannescoles@comcast.net or Mindy at mcamsilver@comcast.net. Spring House Estates is hosting its annual book fair on April 18 from 4 to 7 p.m. and April 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Included will be hardback and paperback used books. Spring House Estates is located at 728 Norristown Road, Lower Gwynedd. The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will present the Penn Suburban/Hatfield Joint Business Card Exchange April 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Univest Bank Lansdale Area Financial Service Center, 120 Forty Foot Road, Hatfield. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. Join Univest National Bank and Trust Co. for a spring-inspired Business Card Exchange at its newest office in the Hatfield Pointe Shopping Center. Come out and meet members of Univests executive management team while enjoying fine food and beverages. 13th Annual Community Reading Day Kick-off Breakfast Get Together April 26 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the North Wales Area Library, 233 Swartley St., North Wales. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. For more information, contact the chamber office at 215-362-9200 or info@pennsuburban.org. Join presenting sponsor Verizon, chamber staff and fellow members for the Community Reading Day volunteer get together. The Community Reading Day program allows volunteers to read a designated book to second-grade students throughout 38 area public and private schools and present the book as a gift to each class. Even if you are not a volunteer, you are cordially invited to stop by to network, enjoy coffee and pastries. Ambler Mennonite Church is hosting a Spring Craft Show and Flea Market May 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain date will be May 28. The community is invited to shop the great craft booths, find some gifts and deals, as well as enjoy home baked goods and tasty lunch specials. Childrens activities are planned. All vendors are encouraged to contact the church at 215-643-4876 or AmblerMennonite@verizon.net. Advertising, signage, customer parking and a shuttle to auxiliary parking at nearby lots for vendors will be provided. 10 foot by 10 foot spaces can be rented for $5 each and tables for an additional $5 each. All proceeds from space and table rentals go toward school kits for children around the world. The church is located at the corner of East Mt. Pleasant Avenue and North Spring Garden Street, Ambler. The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association presents The Life & Times of Aquatic Insects in the Wissahickon Creek April 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. Join WVWA for a hands-on program. RSVP required: www.wvwa.org or 215-646-8866. WVWA member fee: $5 per person / $15 per family. Non-WVWA member fee: $10 per person / $20 per family. The photography exhibition Natures Palette by photo-artist Judy Miller will run March 18 to May 19 at the Art in the Storefront gallery, 41 E. Butler Pike, Ambler. JPRN Networking For People in Transition & People Who Can Help Them Unemployment remains high. JPRN, the Jarrettown Professional Relationship Network can help. Are you trying to network your way to a new job? Do you have expertise or contacts that can help people in transition? Is your company or organization looking for people in the area? This is a free outreach program to support those seeking work, involve people with contacts and networking know how, and involve local companies. Meetings held monthly at Jarrettown United Methodist Church, Limekiln Pike. Pennsylvanias Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) grant program is now open for the 2010-11 heating season. Grants are based on income, family size, type of heating fuel and region. Additional information, such as specific income limits, and applications for LIHEAP grants are available online via the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services (COMPASS) website at www.compass.state.pa.us. Applications are available at most public officals district offices, county assistance offices, local utility companies and community service agencies, such as Area Agencies on Aging or community action agencies. Begin your holiday shopping at Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation! Entertainment books for 2011, Philadelphia North, are now on sale at $30 each. Regal/United Artists movie tickets are on sale for just $7.50 each, and tickets to the Adventure Aquarium, Baltimore Aquarium, and the Philadelphia Zoo are also available. Discounted ski vouchers to area mountains will be arriving in December; call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. RSVP of Montgomery County and the Wissahickon Valley Public Library have partnered again to offer the public their popular free mock interview sessions. The mock interviews are conducted by RSVP volunteers who are retired professionals, some of whom were in hiring positions themselves. Packets of information which include a sample employment application and interviewing tips with mock interview questions are available at the library to pick up prior to a scheduled mock interview or will be sent via email once the interview is scheduled. To schedule your interview, please contact Janis Glusman at RSVP 610-834-1040, ext. 16. The library is also offering a free resume review service. Bring in your current resume and the professional reference staff will assist you with hints and tips on capturing your work history accurately. Registration for Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation summer playgrounds, Camp B.I.G. and Small Folks, X-Zone, and sports camps has began. Register online at www.upperdublin.net/store, or at the UDP&R office, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington. Call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Danielles Espresso Cafe presents Mornings at Mondaug Bark Park April 16 and May 21 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Meet fellow dog lovers. These events include complimentary coffee, treats for people and pups and raffles/giveaways. Upper Dublins Annual Spring Flea Market will be held June 4 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reserve a table, or come and shop. Tables are $15 for UD residents, $20 for non-residents. This successful event occurs rain or shine. Refreshments available. Call 215-643-1600 ext. 3443 to register for a table. Regal movie tickets available for purchase at Upper Dublin Township Parks & Recreation. Reduced rate: $7.50 per ticket. Some restrictions apply. Call 215-643-1600 x3443. Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation movie tickets $7.50 Regal Cinemas, United Artist & Edwards Cinemas on sale throughout the year Monday Friday from 9 a.m. 4 p.m. Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation Camp Sign-ups for Stony Creek Day Camp Stony Creek Tracers and Park n Tots. Register on-line at www.whitpaintownship.org OrCome to Township Building with check or Visa MasterCard Monday Friday from 9 a.m. 4 p.m. For additional information call 610.277-2400 ext. 374 Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation offers exciting new programs for the fall: -Returning favorites include UK Elite Petite Soccer, Tiny Dancers, Kiddie Tennis, Fun-nastics, Messy Playtime, Little Chefs, and more. Babysitters Training will be offered in November and December. Continuing Adult Fitness Classes include Cardio Circuit, Core & More, Yoga, Boxing, and Adult G.Y.M. For more information call 215-643-1600 x3443. Register for programs online at www.upperdublin.net/store. Music and Theater The community is invited to a Cantors Concert April 16 at 8 p.m. Congregation Beth Or, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen. Listen and hum-along to the Yiddish, pop tunes and classical music performed by Congregation Beth Ors own Cantor David Green and his special guest, Cantor Irvin Bell, from Temple Beth Israel in Deerfield Beach, Fla. The cantors will be accompanied by Mark Sobol and his Klezmer musicians. Tickets are $18 in advance and $25 at the door. RSVP with payment to Barb Murtha, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen, PA 19002, or call 215-646-5806 ext. 220. Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse will host the Jameson Sisters May 14. Doors open at 7:30 pm, performance at 8:00 pm. Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse is located at the corner of Rte. 202 & Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd. $5 suggested donation. Light refreshment available at a modest cost. For further information, call 215-393-9576 or visit gwyneddmeeting.org/coffeehouse.html. Celebrate patriotism through song with Gwynedd-Mercy Colleges choir, the Voices of Gwynedd, as it presents Hear America Singing April 15 at 8 p.m. The choir will perform song selections from all over the country, including Georgia on My Mind, New York State of Mind, and a medley including Philadelphia Freedom and Allentown. The performance will end with When the Saints Go Marching In to acknowledge the choirs upcoming tour in New Orleans. Hear America Singing will take place in the Julia Ball Auditorium, located in St. Bernard Hall. Parking is available in lots A, C and D. Admission is free. The Choristers will present Anton Dvoraks Stabat Mater April 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Upper Dublin Lutheran Church in Ambler. The choir will be accompanied by a 41-piece orchestra. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for senior citizens, $10 for students and children are free. Tickets will be sold in advance or at the door. For more information, call 215-542-7871 or visit TheChoristers.org Religious News The Staircase Gallery at Or Hadash: A Reconstructionist Congregation in Fort Washington will feature the work of Emily Ennuat-Lustine. The artist will be showing paintings and graphics inspired by her own personal spiritual journey and quest for meaning. Some of the works to be shown have been inspired by Biblical Psalms and writings. Her work has been shown at Abington Art Center, Cheltenham Arts Center and Old City Gallery of Jewish Art among others. The exhibition is open Friday evenings starting Feb. 18 after Shabbat services. Gallery hours are: Mondays through Thursdays 10-4:30, Fridays 10-3 and following Shabbat Services and Sundays 10-1. The synagogue is located at 190 Camp Hill Road in Fort Washington. For additional information contact the synagogue office at 215-283-0276. Reunions St. Matthews High School Conshohocken Class of 1961 is looking for classmates. For details, contact Greg Marincola at 215-646-2239, 215-740-1296 or gregcola@comcast.net. Olney High School Class of 1971 is Lloking for classmates for a 40th reunion Oct. 28. For details, contact Judy at ohsclassof71@yahoo.com or 215-870-7572. Abington High School Class of 1961 is seeking classmates for a 50-year reunion to be held Oct. 14-15, 2011.Visit the website, www.abington61.com, for details or call 215-947-1779. Overbrook High School class of January 1956 is having a 55 year reunion on May 22, 2011 at the Bala Golf Club in Philadelphia. For information please contact overbrookreunion56@comcast.net Germantown High School Class Of January 1961 is looking for classmates for 50th year reunion to take place in May of 2011. Please contact: 215-362-9148, 856-577-0659 or samdelcomo@comcast.net The June 1961 class of Germantown High School is holding their 50th reunion on May 15, which will be a brunch. For further details please contact Linda Dorfman Alten at lindaalten@yahoo.com or call 215-441-8411. Support New Life Presbyterian Church in Dresher, will host GriefShare, a special seminar and support group which will run on Monday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m., from March 7 through June 6. At each meeting there will be a DVD about the grief process, discussion and reference to a grief workbook. Preregistration is required to secure a place in the group and to purchase a GriefShare notebook (for a one-time fee of $15). The notebook goes along with the 13-week schedule covering such topics as: living with grief, the effects of grief, and stuck in grief. For more information or to register, call: Sandy Elder at 215-884-5149. PUPS (People Understanding Parkinsons) A self-help group for those adjusting to a new diagnosis or dealing with the early stages of Parkinsons Disease. Meets fourth Tuesday of the month from 1 to 2:30 p.m., at Abington Health Center, Schilling Campus, Willowood Building, 2510 Maryland Road, Suite 251, Willow Grove. For more information or to RSVP, contact Lorna at 215-542-2931. The North Penn Visiting Nurse Associations Meals on Wheels program is looking for volunteers to pack or deliver meals to the elderly and infirmed. Meals are packed and delivered mornings, Monday through Friday. You can volunteer for as many days per week or month as you would like. Packaging meals requires approximately 2-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves making sandwiches, packaging food into individual serving containers and packing coolers with the meals. Delivering meals requires approximately 1-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves loading coolers into your car and delivering a route of approximately 10 to 15 stops. The Meals on Wheels program is also in need of emergency, winter-weather volunteers to pack and deliver meals in bad weather. North Penn VNA is located at 51 Medical Campus Drive in Lansdale and delivers meals in the Lansdale, North Wales and Blue Bell areas. For more information or to volunteer, please call Bridget, North Penn VNA Meals on Wheels coordinator at 215-855-8296. Elkins Park Area CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) meets the first Tuesday of every month, 7- 8:30 p.m., at Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital in Elkins Park. For information on CHADD or ADHD, please see our website www.chadd.net/249 or call Claire Noyes at: 215-779-6656. Center for Loss and Bereavement, 3847 Skippack Pike, Skippack (610-222-4110) www.bereavementcenter.org Offers professional counseling for individuals, couples, children and families dealing with issues of loss and bereavement. Six-week adult support groups: Newly forming young adult grief support group every other Wednesday, 7 8:15 p.m. (free of charge); Monthly loss of child support second Mondays, 7-8:15 p.m.; Six-week young loss of spouse/partner Thursdays, 10-11:15 a.m.; Other groups scheduled as interest is shown for suicide loss support, adult loss of parent, motherless daughters, adult loss of sibling, coping with chronic illness and disability and mens loss of spouse. Nellos Corner Family Bereavement program offers peer grief support groups for ages 4 through teen and their caregivers Every other Tuesday or Wednesday (free of charge) Local chapter of Parents of Murdered Children also meets at the Center. Registration required. Call for further information. CHADD is a national organization for children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder, providing education, advocacy and support for individuals and their families with AD/HD. Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital, 60 Township Line Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027, will host children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder on the First Tuesday of each month 7 8:30 p.m. Free, no childcare provided. The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphias Kehillah of Old York Road is sponsoring a free Caregiver Support Group for individuals who care for an elderly person with cognitive and/or physical impairments. The group meets at SarahCare Adult Day Care Center, 101 Washington Lane, Suite G-6, Jenkintown, Pa., on the first Wednesday of each month. Patty Rich, BEIJING, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Monday marked the 69th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, whose remarkable economic and social achievements have attracted global attention and praise from world leaders. Choe Ryong Hae, member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and vice-chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), spoke highly of China's remarkable achievements in pursuing the "Two Centenary Goals" and the Chinese dream of national rejuvenation. Sino-DPRK relations continue to develop soundly in line with a rapidly changing world, he said. The DPRK is willing to join hands with China in implementing key consensus reached by both leaders and work toward a deepened friendship, he added. Ivan Melnikov, first deputy chairperson of the Russian State Duma, extended a warm holiday congratulation to the Chinese people, saying that Russia and China are reliable strategic cooperative partners and each other's diplomatic priority. The two heads of state have completed three visits during the year, guiding the development of Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination, Melnikov said. Vice-President of the French National Assembly Carole Bureau-Bonnard said over the past four decades, China has made remarkable achievements in its modernization. The international community is witnessing an increasingly open China with ever-improving living standards of the people and more progress in high-tech development and poverty alleviation, she said, expressing France's hope to strengthen bilateral cooperation with China. Japanese Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Yoshimasa Hayashi made an address on the 69th anniversary and the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Japan-China Treaty of Peace and Friendship. He said he was impressed by the passion of both sides towards expanding and deepening exchanges in various fields during his visit to China in May this year, saying that a friendly bilateral relationship will benefit the Asia-Pacific region at large. Philippine presidential spokesperson Harry Roque on Thursday lauded China for being a model and an example for the developing world to successfully bring prosperity to the people. "I want to express our congratulations to you on the 69th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China," Roque told Xinhua at the reception. Roque added that the Philippines values its friendship with China. "We hope for a r partnership between the Philippines and China," which will bring more benefits to both peoples, Roque said. Myanmar's First Vice President U Myint Swe said on Wednesday that since the founding of the People's Republic of China, especially during the past 40 years since the reform and opening up, China has built a great economy. U Myint Swe vowed to continue efforts to create a long-standing concrete relationship between Myanmar and China, adding that the two sides will continue promoting the Belt and Road Initiative and the Myanmar-China Economic Corridor. Pakistani Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani said on Friday that Pakistan values relations with China as the bilateral relationship is the cornerstone of his country's foreign policy. "Political transition in Pakistan will not affect Pakistan's China policy and the new government will continue working ly with China to achieve our bilateral objections," Sanjrani told over 1,000 guests including government ministers, ambassadors to Pakistan and scholars at the Chinese embassy in Islamabad. The Senate chairman said the Pakistani people appreciate China's support for their country's national security and vowed his country will continue to stick to the one-China policy and support China on issues related to its core interests. He also hailed China as a model of economic growth for the low income countries in Asia, Africa and South America, adding that Pakistan appreciates and supports the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative and vision of shared prosperity and win-win cooperation. "This was not a referendum on my eight years as Mayor of North Wales Borough. If it was, the margin of defeat would have been much more than six votes. Rather, I believe this loss was the result of the... Veterans Day program at Pennridge North Middle School thanks those who served Letter to editor: Congress can get this right October 03, 2018 Iran Sanctions - U.S. Responds To Court Order By Canceling Treaty That Gave The Court Jurisdiction Earlier today the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a provisional judgment (pdf, 29 pages) against some of the U.S. sanction against Iran. The ruling is a preliminary injunction over urgent humanitarian issues that will later be followed by a final judgment. The U.S. responded by canceling the treaty the gave the court jurisdiction over the case. The ICJ is the main judicial organ of the United Nations and settles legal disputes between member states. The rulings of the court, based in The Hague, are binding. But there is no global police force that can make the U.S. government follow the court's ruling. Nevertheless the judgment sets a precedent that other courts will use when more specific cases against the U.S. sanctions against Iran come up. A company that loses business because of the sanctions may sue the U.S. over financial losses. An ICJ ruling on the illegality of the U.S. sanctions will then be used by a local court, even an American one, as reference. The core of the ruling says: THE COURT, Indicates the following provisional measures: (1) Unanimously, The United States of America, in accordance with its obligations under the 1955 Treaty of Amity, Economic Relations, and Consular Rights, shall remove, by means of its choosing, any impediments arising from the measures announced on 8 May 2018 to the free exportation to the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran of (i) medicines and medical devices; (ii) foodstuffs and agricultural commodities; and (iii) spare parts, equipment and associated services (including warranty, maintenance, repair services and inspections) necessary for the safety of civil aviation; (2) Unanimously, The United States of America shall ensure that licences and necessary authorizations are granted and that payments and other transfers of funds are not subject to any restriction in so far as they relate to the goods and services referred to in point(1); (3) Unanimously, Both Parties shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the Court or make it more difficult to resolve. The provisional judgment, comparable to an injunction, was issued because of the imminent humanitarian damage the U.S. sanctions cause to Iran. The final judgment may take a year and is likely to be much wider. After today's unanimous ruling the general direction of the outcome is not in question. The U.S. had claimed that the the court has no jurisdiction over the issue of its sanctions against Iran. Iran argued that U.S. sanctions are in violations of the Treaty of Amity, Economic Relations, and Consular Rights between Iran and the United States of America (pdf), which was signed at Tehran on 15 August 1955. That treaty gave the ICJ jurisdiction over disputes between the two countries in all issues related to it. The court accepted Iran's view. U.S. Secretary of State Pompeo just held a press conference in which he announced that the U.S. is now canceling the 1955 treaty. His statement was full of bluster and lies: The United States on Wednesday called an international court ruling against its Iran sanctions a defeat for Tehran as it terminated a 1955 treaty on which the case was based. ... Secretary of State Mike Pompeo noted that the UN court did not rule more broadly against US sanctions and he insisted that the United States already exempted humanitarian goods from the sanctions. "The court's ruling today was a defeat for Iran. It rightly rejected all of Iran's baseless requests," Pompeo told reporters. The preliminary injunction is obviously a victory for Iran. The court has not yet judged on the wider issue of the U.S. sanctions. Having read the argument I am convinced that the final judgment will only confirm this win. The ruling is a big loss for the Trump administration. It shows the world that the U.S. is the one and only entity which is in breach of the 1955 treaty, the nuclear agreement with Iran (JCPOA) and the unanimous resolution of the UN Security Council endorsing the nuclear deal. Pompeo's announcement of the canceling of the treaty is somewhat schizophrenic. It accepts the ruling and transgresses on it: The U.S. would not have canceled the treaty without the court's judgment that is based on the treaty. With today's canceling, or the announcement thereof, the U.S. admits that the court intervention based on the treaty is legally correct. This contradicts its earlier argument. The canceling of the treaty today transgresses on the courts judgment. Measure three of the court's ruling orders the parties to not make the issue more difficult to resolve. Canceling the treaty now makes the case more difficult and aggravates and extends the dispute in violation of the court order. The U.S. is in fact mocking the court. It is unlikely that any court will accept the clearly upcoming U.S. claim that the treaty no longer exists, that the ICJ has lost jurisdiction over the case and that its orders can thus be ignored. One can not simply change a contract after being found guilty of violating it. The case will be going to a final judgment under the 1955 treaty because that set the legal status when the case was brought to the court. Pompeo and other will undoubtedly argue that the ruling does not matter for the U.S. and that transgressing it will have no costs. That underestimates the effect of such a ruling on lower national courts. It will be them that will judge about the seizure of U.S. assets when claims of economic damage are brought up against the U.S. and its sanction regime. The case will also weigh on the global opinion. It makes it more difficult for other governments to follow the U.S. sanction regime. Posted by b on October 3, 2018 at 17:34 UTC | Permalink Comments Welcome to Morningstar.co.uk! You have been redirected here from Hemscott.com as we are merging our websites to provide you with a one-stop shop for all your investment research needs.To search for a security, type the name or ticker in the search box at the top of the page and select from the dropdown results.Registered Hemscott users can log in to Morningstar using the same login details. Similarly, if you are a Hemscott Premium user, you now have a Morningstar Premium account which you can access using the same login details. U.S. State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert addresses a press briefing in Washington D.C., the United States, on Oct. 2, 2018. Nauert said here on Tuesday that U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea for further talks concerning the country's denuclearization. (Xinhua/Liu Jie) WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- U.S. State Department said Tuesday that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) for further talks concerning the country's denuclearization. In a press briefing, State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said that Pompeo will talk with DPRK's top leader, Kim Jong Un, on Sunday. Pompeo would also travel to Japan, South Korea and China on Oct. 6-8 to brief them about his visit, she added. Noting that Pompeo is making his fourth trip to the DPRK in less than a year, Nauert said, "we have quite a ways to go but we look forward to the next steps in this conversation." Refusing to say that talks with the DPRK has been stalled, she said "the secretary and the president said we're not going to set arbitrary deadlines in the interim. We're hopeful." She added that "among the things that the secretary discussed were security assurances," referring to Pompeo's agenda in the DPRK. Nauert also said that "obviously these conversations are going in the right direction." The DPRK on Saturday demanded the United States take steps to secure Pyongyang's trust before its denuclearization. "Without any trust in the U.S. there will be no confidence in our national security and under such circumstances there is no way we will unilaterally disarm ourselves first," DPRK's Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho told the UN General Assembly. The key to consolidating peace and security on the Korean Peninsula is to thoroughly implement the joint statement adopted at the historic summit between DPRK top leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump in Singapore in June, said Ri. Speaking before a meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in in New York recently, Trump announced that himself and Kim will hold a second summit "in the not too distant future." After a meeting between Pompeo and Ri on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, the State Department announced that Pompeo will travel to the DPRK to discuss the second Trump-Kim summit. In his speech at the UN General Assembly, Trump thanked Kim "for his courage and for the steps he has taken." But he added that much work remains to be done and that the sanctions against the DPRK will stay in place "until denuclearization occurs." Photo shows a piece of pottery shaped as a female head at the Bengbu Museum in east China's Anhui Province. (Xinhua/Anhui Bengbu Museum) HEFEI, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- A mysterious piece of pottery shaped as a female head sends a smile from 7,300 years ago, as its host museum in east China's Anhui Province starts a global naming bid for the ancient relic. Ji Yong, curator of the Anhui Bengbu Museum in the city of Bengbu, said the statue was among 600 pieces of pottery unearthed from a New Stone Age site at Shuangdun village in Anhui in 1985. Using Carbon 14 technology, the relics were dated back to 7,300 years ago. However, it is still unknown what the statue was used for and why it was the only one of its kind, with the rest being utensils bearing inscriptions of various symbols believed to be origins of Chinese characters. The statue, made with earth containing mica powder and quartz, is a flickering tattooed female face with marks emblazoned on her forehead that archaeologists have judged as a sun symbol. Measuring 6.5 cm in height and width, the relic is the earliest example of such pottery ever found in China. Zhang Dong, professor with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said international archaeological experts tended to link the inscriptions on the pottery items from Shuangdun to drawings in the Olmec civilization and hieroglyphic inscriptions in Mayan culture. Ji said that following the global naming bid, the museum would hold an international symposium on the the item. "I think it is the earliest and the most beautiful facial portrait, and suggests the humans had developed from emotional thinking to rational thinking," said Xu Xiaohong, a member of China Sculpture Society. He suggested naming the statue "The Goddess of the Huaihe River," since the ruins were found on the bank of the Huaihe, which is located in the midway of China's two largest rivers, the Yangtze and Yellow rivers. Shuangdun culture appears in the same period as the late Neolithic group known as the Yangshao, which originated from the middle reaches of the Yellow River, and Majiabang culture where archaeologists excavated 6,000-year-old rice grains in the lower reaches of the Yangtze in present-day Shanghai. In the museum, the statue's caption says "pottery human head portrait with facial tattoos." Wang Jihuai, a researcher with the academy, said although a consensus had not been reached, those involved with Shuangdun archeological research tend to believe that the civilization was a matriarchy with a sorceress dominating the community. "The portrait might be the image of a sorceress," Wang said. There are four-handled kettles and cooking devices unearthed in ruins, where massive animal bones were also discovered. "The discovery of Shuangdun culture suggests that the Huaihe River Basin was one of the origins of Chinese civilization and Chinese characters," Wang said. Since the museum launched the bid to name the smiling portrait through media outlets and Chinese social media in September, it has received considerable feedback. "The portrait just has a head, and the decoration on the forehead suggests she was someone high ranking. Maybe we should name her Big Cheese," said Muhammad Firdaus Samijadi from Surinam. Enzo Hilbert from France said the portrait was certainly a female figure. "She must have been a flamen. I'd like to name her Watermelon Girl or Druidess," he said. Xun Yiran, a Bengbu local, said that since the portrait embodied the ancient culture of the Huaihe River, the name should carry its origin. "I suggest to name her the Mother of the Huaihe River," he said. A strange star system in our own galaxy is producing some of the most powerful gamma rays ever seen. Messengers from this microquasar may offer a glimpse into bizarre objects at the centers of distant galaxies. One of the weirdest objects in the Milky Way just got weirder. Scientists have discovered a new source of the highest-energy photons in the cosmos: a strange system known as a microquasar, located in our neck of the galaxy a neighborly 15,000 light years from Earth. The discovery could shed light on some of the biggest, baddest phenomena in the known universe. Their findings appear in the Oct. 4, 2018, issue of Nature (DOI: 10.1038/s41586-018-0565-5). Among the coauthors are Petra Huentemeyer, a professor of physics; Henrike Fleischhack, a postdoctoral research associate; and PhD candidates Chad Brisbois and Binita Hona, all of Michigan Technological University. Maxi-photons from a Mini-source The gamma rays beaming from this microquasar, known as SS 433, are among the brawniest photons ever observedabout 25 trillion times more energetic than visible lightand were detected at the High-Altitude Water Cherenkov Gamma-Ray (HAWC) Observatory in Mexico. Such photons are born only in the most extreme environments, including quasars, the massive black holes at the centers of galaxies billions of light years away. But if you wanted to find a gamma-ray birthplace closer to home, microquasars might be one of the first places youd look. Microquasars behave like quasars, but in miniature. Quasars suck up dust and gas, while astronomers believe that SS 433 contains a black hole that sucks up stuff from a nearby companion star. They both blast out powerful jets of material in opposite directions. SS 433s jets extend over 130 light years into space. To put that into perspective, our entire solar system is not quite two light years across. SS 433 is a nearby microquasar, which offers insight into the glimpse of its bigger, harder-to-study quasar cousins. Credit: NASA/CXC/M.Weiss Honing in on SS 433 Scientists have been studying SS 433 since the 1980s and have already detected electromagnetic radiation in the form of X-rays and radio waves coming from the ends of its jets. But they had not found any high-energy gamma rays until now and HAWCs technology made it possible. The HAWC Observatory is the most sensitive instrument for photons at these very high energies, and it did not begin collecting data until 2015, Huentemeyer says, the HAWC science coordinator. The new evidence strongly suggests that the powerful gamma rays were produced at the ends of the jets and not another source nearby. SS 433 is located in the same region of the sky as other bright sources that also emit gamma rays, Hao Zhou says, galactic science coordinator of HAWC and a lead author on the Nature paper. With its wide field of view, HAWC is uniquely capable of separating the gamma-ray emission due to SS 433 from other background photons. Zhou is a former doctoral student of Huentemeyer and a 2015 Michigan Tech PhD graduate now at Los Alamos National Laboratory. So Much Energy, Such a Tiny Subatomic Particle In addition, the data show that the high-energy gamma rays were generated by electrons colliding with background microwave radiation left over from the Big Bang. That means that electrons in the SS 433 jets attain energies that are about 1,000 times higher than those achieved by the most powerful earthbound particle accelerators, such as the city-sized Large Hadron Collider, in Switzerland. This is a new mechanism for generating high-energy gamma rays in this type of system and is different than what scientists have previously observed. The finding is also somewhat mysterious. These electrons are some of the highest-energy particles in our galaxy, and its hard to explain how something that small got so much energy, Huentemeyer says. However, the electromagnetic radiation emitted by SS 433 over a broad energy range is consistent with a single population of electrons. A Peek into the Ancient Universe Scientists hope that studying messengers from this microquasar may offer a glimpse into the secrets of their larger cousins. Quasars are millions of times bigger than the sun and the brightest known objects in the universe. Most have been found billions of light years away, and because it takes light time to travel, studying them is like going back in a time machine; we see the object as it was billions of years ago. Because they are so far away, most of the quasars detected by telescopes have their jets aimed at Earth, so observing them is like looking directly into a flashlight. In contrast, SS 433s jets are oriented sideways, pointing away from Earth, which makes them easier to study. The new findings improve our understanding of particle acceleration in the jets of microquasars, Zhou says. They may also shed light on the physics underlying the much larger and more powerful extragalactic jets in quasars. The HAWC Observatory is a mountaintop observatory about four hours east of Mexico City, built and operated by an international team of scientists. Credit: HAWC About the Researcher Hao Zhou Research Interests Particle Astrophysics Very-High-Energy Gamma-Ray Emission Pulsar Wind Nebulae Michigan Technological University is a public research university founded in 1885 in Houghton, Michigan, and is home to more than 7,000 students from 55 countries around the world. Consistently ranked among the best universities in the country for return on investment, the University offers more than 125 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in science and technology, engineering, computing, forestry, business and economics, health professions, humanities, mathematics, social sciences, and the arts. The rural campus is situated just miles from Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, offering year-round opportunities for outdoor adventure. Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday responded to the second round of the Diplomatic and Security Dialogue with the United States being postponed. China and the United States had previously agreed in principle to hold the second round of their Diplomatic and Security Dialogue in mid-October, while the United States recently proposed putting off the dialogue, spokesperson Hua Chunying said. Hua Chunying [File Photo: the Ministry of Foreign Affairs] Hua's remarks came after some U.S. media outlets reported that China had proposed the postponement. "China and the United States will continue their communication on holding the second round of the Diplomatic and Security Dialogue," she said. Enditem Every country in supply chain will be affected, expert says The escalating trade dispute between China and the US is beginning to inflict economic damage on third-party countries, according to a new report. An analysis by the Centre for Economics and Business Research, an economic consultancy in London, concludes that US President Donald Trumps trade measures have already hit 1.9 billion ($2.48 billion) of UK exports this year. The report is one of the first to highlight the global ramifications of the trade standoff between the US and China. British goods directly and through global value chains consumer confidence and financial markets are particularly exposed to the escalation of protectionism across the globe, Josie Dent, a member of CEBRs economics team, wrote in the report, which she authored. Edward Tse, chief executive officer and founder of the management consultancy Gao Feng Advisory, said on Tuesday that the CEBR report makes clear that the trade disputes impact will be felt across the globe. This has to be expected. Supply chains have become so globalized and China is so much the center of world manufacturing, particularly in areas like consumer electronics, that every country that is in this chain will be affected, he said. This is not just the UK, but South Korea, Japan, Malaysia and so on. The whole world is brought in by this. The report by the CEBR, which is headed by its founder Douglas McWilliams, a former chief economist of the Confederation of British Industry, the UK industry body, said UK exports have been particularly damaged by the tariffs imposed on China because the United Kingdom is an integral part of the worlds second-largest economys supply chain. On Sept 24, Trump enacted tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports on top of the $50 billion he had already imposed. Beijing immediately responded, slapping tariffs on 5,207 categories of US products worth $60 billion. The report said that the tariffs on Chinese goods alone have damaged about half of the 3 billion of Chinese exports to the US that are originally sourced from the UK. In addition, the US tariffs imposed on European Union steel and aluminum exports in May have adversely affected 389 million of UK exports, leading to a total impact on 1.9 billion of exported goods. Dent said on Monday that because of the nature of global supply chains, the tariffs China placed on US goods have had a bigger impact than those imposed directly on the EU, of which the UK is a member. A far greater impact on the UK comes through the escalating US-China trade war, she said. Dent, who has done extensive research into global value chains, fears the situation can only deteriorate if Trump makes a further move. In the most recent round of the dispute, Trump warned that if China retaliated, then nearly all goods exported from China to the US could face additional duties. As China did indeed retaliate, the ball is back in Trumps court, she said. Wang Huiyao, president and founder of the Center for China and Globalization, the leading Beijing-based independent think tank and a counselor to the State Council, Chinas Cabinet, said on Tuesday that the eventual effect of the trade measures will be felt globally. It certainly wont just affect the UK, but many European countries and others too. I dont think people fully understand the complexity of this. If you take a company like Siemens, which makes SUV vehicles in the US, it will be impacted by tariffs both ways. Its exports to China will be hit, but also the components it sources from China. Wang has just returned from the US presenting the Center for China and Globalizations own report, China-US Trade Relations and Challenges, at 20 events across the country. As the worlds two largest economies, the US and China collectively account for almost half of global GDP, underwriting global prosperity. A trade war between the two will inevitably lead to a lose-lose outcome, harming not only both countries, but also the global economy at large, that report concluded. Dent said that automakers in the UK are likely to be the worst hit by a trade war. Daimler has already announced that the tariffs on cars exported from the US to China contributed to its profits falling from 2.5 billion ($2.9 billion) in the second quarter of 2017 to 1.8 billion in the same period this year. The global nature of car production often means that components cross many borders before the final car is assembled. If each element faces a tariff at border crossings, costs will accumulate along supply chains, she said. Dent said this could be particularly damaging to the UK economy since the auto industry made up 12 percent of exported UK goods. The UK car manufacturers will feel the impact of the trade war strongly, and the fall in profitability will hit the UK economy. Dent said the trade dispute has already hit UK export growth, which has fallen from 14.2 percent year-on-year in the second quarter last year to 1.9 percent now. She said it has already also affected consumer confidence the YouGov/Cebr UK consumer confidence index already fell notably when Trump announced his steel and aluminum tariffs and she expects it to have a damaging effect on equity markets. (The recent escalation) was already priced in by market players, though further escalations of the trade war are likely to have a negative impact (on stock markets), she said. Regional Meghalaya CM Conrad attends first Indonesia India Interfaith Dialogue Correspondent Yogyakarta, Oct 3 | Publish Date: 10/3/2018 11:29:05 AM IST Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma is attending the first Indonesia India Interfaith Dialogue in the Indonesian island of Java, which is being led by Indias Minister of State of External Affairs M.J Akbar, an official statement said on Wednesday. Indonesia India Interfaith Dialogue has the potential to emerge as an effective forum to nurture peace and harmony not only in the two countries but also in the region and in the world, Sangma said. He also said that all religions are based on peace for all mankind and that it is a crime against God to use religion as a platform to incite hate, conflict, violence, war or terrorism. Conrad also expressed concern at the global trend towards insularity and felt that this could lead to greater social tensions and strife in the world. The dialogue aims to promote pluralism and eradicate radicalism. The three-day programme comprises of a forum discussion, visit to places of worship and dialogues between Hindu, Islamic, Christian and Buddhist religious leaders of both India and Indonesia. During the programme, the members held discussion on the theme Sharing of Best Practices, Lessons Learnt and Way Forward at Yogyakarta, a city in Java Island. The Indonesian delegation at the India-Indonesia Interfaith Dialogue was led by Vice Foreign Minister of Foreign Affairs A M Fachir. Earlier this year, during Prime Minister Modis talks with Indonesian President Joko Widodo, the two leaders had agreed to organise the Interfaith Dialogue in Indonesia, which will be followed by a similar dialogue in India next year to promote pluralism and eradicate radicalism. It is being held as an innovative mechanism to promote pluralism and tolerance, and to provide a platform for Indonesian and Indian religious scholars, youth and civil society leaders to join hands in improving relations across religions and cultures, combat prejudice, tackle radicalism and build conducive conditions for long-term peace, the statement said.The participating delegates will be visiting Prambanam and Borobodur Temples, along with Zen Ling Gong Temple, Huria Kristen Batak Protestan Church, Santo Antonius Catholic Church and Syuhada Mosque in Yogyakarta, a statement by Indian Embassy in Indonesia said. During the discussions, delegates shared their common commitment to ancient philosophies of Bhinneka Tinggal Eka or Unity in Diversity and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam or The world is one family, the statement said. Earlier, Akbar delivered a memorial lecture at the prestigious Gajamadah University to mark the beginning of the year-long celebrations of Mahatma Gandhis 150th birth anniversary. He also unveiled a photo exhibit on Gandhi and inaugurated a film festival on movies and documentaries showcasing the life of the towering Indian leader. Akbar welcomed the timing of the maiden IIID to coincide with the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Gandhi, stating that there could be no better symbol for Interfaith Dialogue than Gandhi. The minister extended an invitation for Indonesia to attend the second IIID in India in 2019. According to the Pew Research Center, Indonesia has the worlds largest Muslim population. India is home to the worlds second largest Muslim population. The delegates recognized the importance of interfaith and faith-based organizations and religious leaders in fostering a culture of peace and preventing violent extremism in the world and agreed on the need to enhance partnership to realize practical and concrete cooperation among interfaith and faith-based organizations as well as religious and traditional leaders with policy makers between India and Indonesia so as to promote harmony and peace. Chinese actress Fan Bingbing Xinhun Photo BEIJING, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Chinese actress Fan Bingbing has been ordered to pay taxes and fines worth hundreds of millions of yuan over tax evasion, according to the country's tax authorities Wednesday. The State Taxation Administration and its Jiangsu Provincial Tax Service said that they started investigating Fan in early June after receiving information from members of the public that accused Fan of tax evasion through contract frauds. The investigation found she had evaded about 7.3 million yuan (1.07 million U.S. dollars) in personal income tax and business taxes during her work on the Chinese film "The Bombing." Investigators found Fan and firms of which she is legal representative to have tax arrears amounting to 248 million yuan, of which 134 million yuan was evaded. The penalties, made in accordance with Chinese laws, were announced as follows: -- Fan and the firms must pay 255 million yuan in taxes and 33 million yuan in overdue surcharge; -- Fan must pay a fine of 240 million yuan for concealing real income through contract frauds and another fine of 239 million yuan for using the accounts of her studio to hide personal incomes; -- The firms must pay a fine of 946,000 yuan for omitting income in accounting books to evade taxes; -- One firm must pay 51 million yuan for failing to pay personal income taxes on behalf of Fan and another must pay 65 million yuan for providing illicit assistance in tax omission. Taxation officers in Jiangsu formally issued the penalty to Fan on Sept. 30. Fan, who received an administrative penalty due to tax evasion for the first time and has never been subject to any criminal punishment for tax evasion, will not be pursued for criminal liability if she pays back the taxes and fines within a defined time period. The case, however, will be transferred to the police if she fails to comply. Taxation authorities said that during their investigation, Fan's agent, surnamed Mou, obstructed the process by instigating employees to hide and deliberately destroy accounting materials of the companies involved. Suspected of committing criminal offenses, Mou and other related personnel have been placed under compulsory measures by police investigating the case. The State Taxation Administration has ordered its Jiangsu Provincial Tax Service to punish taxation officers who were held accountable for the tax evasion. The authorities said other film and TV firms as well as relevant personnel that undergo self-examination and make remedial payments to taxation authorities before Dec. 31 will be exempt from administrative punishment and penalties. By PTI NEW DELHI: In a bid to fortify its new-age portfolio, Bharti Airtel has acquired technology of artificial intelligence (AI) service provider AuthMe ID Services and its employees will join the company. "As part of the deal, the core team of AuthMe will join Airtel and be a part of Airtel X Labs in Bengaluru. In addition, Airtel has acquired the intellectual proprietary rights for two flagship solutions developed by AuthMe," an Airtel release said Wednesday. The telecom company neither disclosed the scale of the deal nor the size of the team acquired. READ| Airtel to invest Rs 1,000 crore in Karnataka Airtel has set up Airtel X Labs to drive innovation in the areas of AI, Internet of Things, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality and "is building a world-class team for the facility", it said. The latest move will augment Airtel's initiatives to serve customers with new digital products. "We are rapidly scaling up Airtel X Labs, our digital innovation factory, and these new solutions will accelerate our journey towards rolling out intuitive digital products, particularly in vernacular languages, for our 430 million plus customers," Harmeen Mehta, Global CIO, Bharti Airtel said. The two flagship solutions of AuthMe whose intellectual proprietary rights are acquired by Airtel are Callup AI and Fintech Optical Character Recognition. While Callup has created a chat and voice assistant using power of AI to resolve customer queries over e-mail, chat and phone calls, Fintech Optical is designed for processing KYC documents, bank/credit card/loan statements, among others. Nearly four years ago, the Egyptian Ministry of Health warned of a new type of drug that was spreading throughout Egypt; "Voodoo", an obscure synthetic cannabinoid. According to the US National Institute on Drug Abuse, synthetic cannabinoids are man-made, mind-altering chemicals sprayed on dried, shredded plant material so that it can be smoked or sold as liquids and inhaled in e-cigarettes and other devices. Synthetic marijuana products are often marketed as "safe" alternatives to marijuana, but are known to cause serious health problems such as suicidal thoughts, seizures, breathing problems and kidney failure, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last month, the Ministry of Health added five new substances to the countrys drug list, bringing the total number of illicit substances added to the list in the past two months to 11. The decision, which was published in the countrys official gazette on 5 September, was issued based on the recommendation of a tripartite committee of representatives from the ministries of health, interior and justice. The committee was formed in October 2017 to discuss banning harmful substances that are frequently consumed recreationally by young people. Spokesman for the Ministry of Health Khaled Megahed has said in media statements that these substances and all their compounds and derivatives have been listed as illicit drugs under Law 182/1960, which prohibits the possession or trafficking of narcotics. Dr Hesham Abdel-Hamied, the head of Egypt's Forensics Department, told Ahram Online that the most popular brands of synthetic cannabis are traded under the names Voodoo and Strox. Abdel-Hamied says that the effects of these drugs vary in severity and are up to 400 times more potent than organic cannabis. According to a report issued by the World Health Organisation in 2016, Voodoo is a brand name for the drug Pentedrone (also known as methylamino-valerophenone), which is sold as an herbal product sprayed with other compounds, and was originally used as a sedative for large animals such as elephants and bulls. Voodoo and other synthetic cannabinoids have been rising in popularity in Egypt in recent years, especially following the 2011 uprising and the ensuing lax security environment. Many have since called for the banning of these substances, although the health ministry has been slow to respond, saying that many of the substances used in making these drugs have legitimate medicinal uses. However, despite the absence of a legal ban on these drugs, police have arrested many for possessing these drugs, although no successful prosecution has been possible since these substances have not been criminalised. Abdel-Hamid sayd that we have been attempting in recent months to identify, track and list all others compounds used in adulterating these drugs." In the United States, Voodoo and similar drugs like K2, Spice, Mojo have been listed as commercial brands for synthetic cannabinoids. Last August, the drug was attributed to a mass overdose of 70 people in a Connecticut park near Yale University, according to the Washington Post. Many other poisoning incidents as a result of consuming synthetic cannabinoids have been reported across the United States. In 2018, the United States Food and Drug Administration warned of significant health risks associated with synthetic cannabinoid products that contain the rat poison brodifacoum, which is added because it is thought to extend the duration of the drugs' effects. Severe illnesses and death have resulted from this contamination. Some observers have also linked Voodoo and Strox to an increase in aggression and violent behaviour. Last May, Ghada Waly, Egypt's minister of social solidarity and chairman of the board of directors of the Addiction Treatment and Abuse Fund, revealed that Strox was the third most widely used illicit drug among addicts seeking treatment with the fund, having been abused by 22 percent of patients. The most commonly used drug is hashish at 44 percent, followed be the pharmaceutical painkiller Tramadol at 40 percent. In 2017, Tramadol ranked as the number one drug abused by addicts who called the Drug Control Fund's hotline. Amr Osman, the director of the Addiction Treatment & Abuse Fund, also highlighted in a statement in May that Strox is currently one of the most dangerous drugs commonly used by Egyptian youth. According to Osman, Strox causes loss of concentration, delirium, rapid heartbeats, vomiting, fainting, extreme fear of death, anxiety, heart attacks and lethal convulsions. The rate of addiction to Strox, also known as 'Satan's Drug,' rose earlier this year to 25 percent among users seeking treatment, compared to 4.5 percent in 2017, Osman said, adding that most Strox users are aged between 15 and 20. According to media reports, Voodoo found its way to Egypt in late 2010 by smuggling through its western border. A.M, a 28-year-old accountant, spoke to Ahram Online about his experience with Voodoo. In 2010, I was introduced to Voodoo by a friend who told me that it was a new type of marijuana, says A.M, who has been a regular Hashish user for over five years. This friend pulled out a small plastic bag which he said cost EGP 250 which had the image of a voodoo doll on the front and a warning that read 'this substance is not for human consumption' on the back, he said. We were a group of nine people, and each of us took three hits from each cigarette," said A.M, adding that the drug caused an "extreme state of laughter and happiness from only the first three hits. The initial effect was as if you were smoking hashish for the first time, but much more intense. I had a similar experience when I smoked Voodoo for the second time," he said. The third time was like a nightmare, says A.M, it all turned out to be a very bad trip. It was like I had entered a very bad movie; I was watching myself doing things as if I were watching a film. I saw myself fall on our bathroom floor at home and hit my head on the toilet seat, when in reality I was out on the street and had lost my balance, hitting my head on the hood of a parked vehicle, he said. After a little bit I started to experience thoughts about death and the afterlife. The whole experience lasted from 10 to 15 minutes, and afterwards I felt very dizzy and physically exhausted for a couple of minutes while trying to figure out what happened," he said, adding that "this was the last time I took the drug, after which I decided never again. N.M, a 33-year-old computer engineer, also spoke to Ahram Online about his experience with Strox and Voodoo. "In my experience, Voodoo and Strox are not that different from each other in their effect," said N.M, who has been consuming marijuana and hashish regularly for 12 years. The most dangerous effect I have seen some other people experience with these drugs is a severe panic attack, N.M adds. I did not like either drug, it is nothing like smoking marijuana or hashish. I would not consider trying any of these drugs again, he says. The Ministry of Health is currently paying more attention to the dangers of these substances, especially after the spike in abuse among young people in recent years. In light of the rising rate of Voodoo and Strox abuse and addiction, the ministry announced earlier this month that it is preparing a new special programme to treat addiction to Strox under the supervision of the Mental Health Department. Health officials like Rasha Zeyada, who is the head of the Central Pharmaceutical Department at the Ministry of Health, said in a phone interview on Sada Al-Balad TV channel last week that more efforts are underway to ban new substances used to adulterate these drugs, as well as ensuring the proper medical and legal environment to curb the abuse of these substances. Search Keywords: Short link: By Express News Service NEW DELHI: After defaulting on payment of August salary to its pilots, engineers and senior management, cash-strapped Jet Airways is now unable to pay timely salary to other categories of employees as well. An employee of the airline confirmed to TNIE that they are facing salary issues, but avoided giving further details. Last month, the airline had said to its high paying employees that their salaries would be paid in two installments till November. While it paid the 50 per cent by September 11, it defaulted on paying the remaining 50 per cent by September 26. It was reported that airline would disburse the half August salary on October 9. However, this time, the salary issue was not just limited to the three mentioned categories, but reached to other levels as well. As per an agency report, the employees in A1-A5, O2 and O3 grade, or whose salaries are up to Rs 75,000 per month, were paid on October 1, while the rest of the staffers in the M2, M3, E1 and above grades have not been paid yet. Jet has an employee strength of 16,558 people. "We generally get our salary on the 1st of (every) month. Last month, the airline paid all employees except for senior management, pilots and engineers on time. But this time (September), they have failed to pay even to other categories of employees such as manager and above levels," said an employee with the airline. Last month, when the airline had delayed salary disbursement, its pilots had threatened the management of "non-cooperation." Jet had also proposed an up to 25 per cent cut in salaries in late June but was forced to defer the plan following opposition from the pilots' union and engineers. Queries sent to Jet by TNIE did not elicit a response at the time of publication. The Naresh Goyal-led company, which is partially owned by UAE national carrier Etihad Airways, is facing several financial woes to keep its wings up in the air, apart from paying its employees on time. As its losses piled up to Rs 1,323 crore in the recent quarter on account of high fuel prices and low fares, the airline had informed its lenders that it will raise about Rs 3,500 crore through a stake sale in its loyalty programme and pump in fresh funds into the company. The airline has also told lenders it will shave off costs by as much as Rs 2,000 crore over the next two years. However, continuous depreciation of rupee against US dollar and over 7 per cent recent hike in ATF prices might impact the airline's cost-saving measures. Sunitha natti By Express News Service MUMBAI: THE IL&FS crisis was in the making for the past 3-4 years, and marquee shareholders including LIC, SBI, and HDFC were all aware of the picture, said R C Bhargava, former independent director, IL&FS. Stating that the crisis occurred due to a mismatch of assets and liabilities, he said several attempts to fix the gap did not work. There was a mismatch between the tenure of assets and liabilities (in IL&FS) and has been discussed by the board for the last 3-4 years. All (shareholders) were aware, Bhargava told TNIE. He, however, dismissed the notion that no efforts were undertaken. An IPO was planned twice, but people didnt want shares of an infrastructure company. A rights issue didnt happen because shareholders werent willing to subscribe. The proposal to bring an outside investor didnt go through as one of the shareholders rejected it, he recalled. On Monday, the government superseded IL&FS board and inducted its own nominees. Five former board members led by past LIC Chairman S B Mathur on Tuesday sent a missive to the new board extending support. IL&FS debt, at Rs 91,000 crore, is a frisson of disaster foretold and any default could spark a financial catastrophe. Yet shareholders and the board, comprising government nominees did not raise red flags. Instead, they kept calm and carried on, forcing the company to resort to a borrowing binge. Its when alarm bells should ring, so that companies dont lock themselves in a struggle against size, reasoned Shriram Subramanian, founder, InGovern Research Services. ALSO READ: From Maytas to Gift: The saga of IL&FS deals In three years, debt grew 40 per cent, and with half the subsidiaries in the red, IL&FS couldnt service interest payments. Borrowing more wasnt an option as it maxed out on loans, and efforts to monetise non-core assets remained just that. Shareholders should bring equity capital, but they refused to commit even until last Saturday, said Bhargava. The governments move to induct a new board instills confidence among shareholders and creditors, but challenges remain. The Uday Kotak-led board has to crack the impossible trinity of finding liquidity, improving capital and selling off assets. Experts arent ruling out distress sales like Satyam. The board has to act swiftly and could be working with an internal timeframe of 5-6 months. So expect some fire sales, said R Vaidyanathan, former professor of finance, IIM-Bengaluru. By PTI NEW YORK: Ramon Laguarta assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer of global beverage giant PepsiCo Wednesday, succeeding India-born Indra Nooyi who had helmed the American company for 12 years, breaking the corporate glass ceiling and leading Pepsi through changing consumer preference for healthier snacks and drinks. Nooyi stepped down after 24 years with the company, the last 12 as CEO. She will remain Chairman until early 2019 to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. PepsiCo's Board of Directors had in August announced that they unanimously elected Laguarta, 54, to succeed Nooyi, 62, as Chief Executive Officer. Laguarta was also elected to the company's Board of Directors, effective October 3. In her concluding remarks during PepsiCo's Third Quarter 2018 Earnings Conference Call Tuesday, Nooyi said she has been blessed to have had the opportunity to lead PepsiCo and "work with such incredible people including our outstanding board, executives and other associates, our customers and other partners, our shareholders and all our other stakeholders." When I joined @PepsiCo in 1996 I never imagined I would one day become CEO. But this is a company of opportunity, where hard work makes anything possible no matter who you are. Our employees take this idea to heart, and I am so excited to begin our journey together. Ramon Laguarta (@ramonlaguarta) October 3, 2018 Nooyi not only broke the glass ceiling in corporate America when she was named CEO of the global beverage giant in 2006 but, through her journey, inspired millions of young Indians who dreamed of and aspired to emulate the success the India-born woman achieved in America. She was appointed as CEO in 2006, becoming PepsiCo's fifth chief executive in its 41-year history, and the first woman. MasterCard's President Ajay Banga, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Google CEO Sundar Pichai were all named to the top jobs in their companies in the years that followed. Laguarta will become the sixth CEO in PepsiCo's 53-year history. All have been appointed from within the organization, a testament to PepsiCo's strong bench of talent and succession planning, the company had said. He has held a number of executive and general management roles in his 22 years at PepsiCo. Since September 2017, Laguarta has served as President of PepsiCo, overseeing global operations, corporate strategy, public policy and government affairs. Previously, Laguarta served as Chief Executive Officer, Europe Sub-Saharan Africa, one of PepsiCo's most complex businesses with operations spanning three continents and comprised of developed, developing and emerging markets. Prior to that, he served as President, PepsiCo Eastern Europe region and served in a variety of sales, marketing and other commercial roles across Europe. From creating our north star of Performance with Purpose to transforming our portfolio, @IndraNooyi has led us with purpose and vision for over a decade. Thank you for everything, Indra! https://t.co/dLp4G3rGHM PepsiCo (@PepsiCo) October 2, 2018 Laguarta holds an MBA from ESADE Business School in Spain and a Master's in International Management (MIM) from Thunderbird School of Global Management in the U.S. A Barcelona native, he speaks multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Catalan, French, German and Greek. The quarterly earnings report on Nooyi's final day on the job beat analyst estimates. Revenue rose 1.5 per cent to USD 16.5 billion while earnings totalled USD 1.59 a share, both figures beating analyst estimates. PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi (File | Reuters) In her parting words before stepping down as CEO, Nooyi share some reflections on what she has learnt during her tenure. "First, whether you work in operations, sales, R&D, or any of our functions, always have a clear, compelling vision for what you want to accomplish," she said. Quoting a proverb that people perish where there is no vision, Nooyi said she has found that to be true for everyone, no matter the role in the company. Nooyi also urged in her letter to be lifelong students. "Our world is changing rapidly all around us, and if you want to continue to thrive in the years ahead, you'll need to continually educate yourself. Visit our Lifelong Learning Library in Purchase, take a course at PepsiCo University, listen to podcasts or search Googlehowever you do it, make your ongoing education a priority," she said. Looking to the future, Nooyi said she has no doubt that PepsiCo's best days are still to come. Describing Laguarta as a great executive and one of the hardest-working, most humble people she knows, she said he is a global leader who knows the business inside and out and is exactly the right person to lead PepsiCo at this moment. By PTI MUMBAI: Starbucks on Wednesday announced the appointment of Navin Gurnaney as the new chief executive beginning January 1, 2019, to replace Sumitro Ghosh, who is returning to the US for a role within Starbucks. Gurnaney will be the third head of the company since its entry in October 2012 and will be responsible for driving the overall strategic direction and vision and further strengthening business. He is returning to Starbucks after first joining in 2004 where he was a leader on US business for eight years. Starbucks entered the domestic market in October 2012 through an equal joint venture with Tata Global Beverages and currently operates 128 stores. Suzuki rolls out RMZ series of off-roader bikes: Suzuki Motorcycle India Wednesday launched their global flagship motocross bikes, RM-Z450 and RM-Z250 and are priced at Rs 7,10,000 and Rs 8,31,000 respectively. While the RM-Z250 is powered with 249cm3, 4-stroke, fuel injection engine boasting light and compact design, the RM-Z450 is equipped with 449 cm3, 4-stroke, fuel injection and is the first motocross bike to adopt new balance free rear cushion suspension, the company said in a statement. TataCom acquires mobility, IoT specialist: Teleena Tata Communications has agreed to take over Teleena, the Netherlands-based Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity specialist and mobile virtual network enabler for an undisclosed sum. This acquisition follows Tata Communications' investment in Teleena in January 2017, when the company became the single largest shareholder with a 35 per cent stake. Its technology reduces the operational complexity and cost of mobility and IoT deployments for businesses, the company said in a statement Wednesday. The acquisition is an investment in technology and talent to complement Tata Communications' growth strategy in the global mobility and IoT market. Suzlon commissions tallest concrete tubular tower: Suzlon has commissioned a 140-meter wind tower, which it claimed is the tallest hybrid concrete tubular tower at Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu. The new tower will make low wind sites viable. The concrete tower was constructed onsite, using pre-cast in-situ, ensuring control on quality and internally reinforced with high strength steel cables, it said Wednesday. By Express News Service BENGALURU: Over 1,500 government school teachers from the city will visit schools located in rural Karnataka to train teachers on new and innovative ways of teaching Mathematics and Science subjects. The master trainers will make the teachers in rural areas familiar with the Singaporean style of learning/teaching, which focuses on a lot of activities. Parikrma Humanity Foundation, in association with the Singapore International Foundation (SIF), has trained all these 1,500 government teachers belonging to 300 schools from the city, said Shukla Bose, founder CEO of Parikrma Humanity Foundation. The training in rural areas will be initially restricted to primary school teachers only, Shukla added. I never thought that even Mathematics could be learnt without the use of blackboards. After attending the recent training sessions, I am able to teach my students several new techniques to learn Maths and Science in an easy manner. I just cannot wait to share my knowledge with the rural counterparts, said a teacher at a government primary school located in Malleswaram. By Express News Service BENGALURU: Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Tuesday said that he wanted to ensure Bengaluru becomes a Rama Rajya on the lines of the idea of a safe and peaceful society made popular by Mahatma Gandhi. Kumaraswamy was speaking at the 150th Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at Gandhi Bhavan on Tuesday. He said that currently many anti-social activities were taking place in the city including some gambling centres running without permission. Encroachment of public and private properties too is prevalent. Public, especially senior citizens, are cheated by others illegally taking over their properties. Chain snatching cases too are rampant. We have posted efficient officers in Bengaluru. I have directed them not to bind to any pressure and just go ahead and catch the culprit. There is no need to bring such cases to my notice. Rowdy activities should come down, he said. He said he has directed the authorities concerned to install CCTV cameras in each and every street. We are celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhiji, who dreamt for a peaceful and safer country. We want to make our city livable. Gandhi had once said if a woman walks in the night without fear, then we have achieved swarajya (freedom). We want to walk in this direction, he said. He also remembered Lal Bahadur Shastri who had called for Jai Jawan Jai Kisan. Shastry always said farmers are the backbone of the country. We have announced to waive farmers loans and have waived `45,000 crore. It cannot be done in a day or two. It will be done in the coming days gradually. But even today, there are a few farmer suicides, which hurts me. We are ready to give any assistance to the farmers, he said. By Express News Service CHENNAI: A couple of days after an attempt to break open a private bank at Ramapuram, police arrested two migrant workers from Nepal in connection with the incident. A search is on for four others. Police said that based on CCTV footage they nabbed two men, who were working as security guards in Chennai. The duo were staying near the bank. They allegedly planned to break it open since there was no guard. They were identified as Ganesh Pogath and his cousin Narath Pogath. K Shiva Shanker By Express News Service HYDERABAD: The Health Department has recalled all batches of bivalent oral polio vaccine (bOPV) vials manufactured by Bio-Med after the Union Ministry of Health sounded alarm bells as a batch dispatched to Maharashtra was found to be contaminated with Type-2 poliovirus. Public Health and Family Welfare director Dr G Srinivasa Rao directed all district immunisation officers (DIO) and district medical and health officers (DMHO) to call back all batches of vaccines of the pharmaceutical company and urged parents to ensure that their children are not administered Bio-Meds vaccine at private hospitals. State officials who were on their toes after receiving the alert segregated the vials and submitted them to State vaccine stores. A meeting will be held in Delhi on Wednesday to decide the future course of action. The officials have appealed to the people to maintain calm and not be worried as they had not received any official communication on the virus being spotted in the batches dispatched to Telangana. Our polio immunisation is 95 per cent. There is no need to worry. Children below five years of age who have not been vaccinated can be brought to government facilities. We will make sure that they are immunised, Rao said. There are three different types of wild polioviruses (Type 1,2, and 3). The last reported polio P-2 virus case in India was in October 24, 1999, in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Inactivated polio vaccine is prepared by killing wild-type virus strains and oral polio vaccines by attenuating live virus strains. IPV fights P-2, P-2 and P-3 strains of the virus. Telangana switched from trivalent OPV to bivalent OPV (bOPV) which builds anti-bodies against P-1 and P-3 virus in 2016. On September 10, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare deputy commissioner (immunization) Dr Pradeep Haldar directed to State officials that the use the BIOMED vaccine in question be stopped with immediate effect. The reason for the decision, however, was communicated by the Centre only two weeks later, on September 24. The vials taken off shelves were taken to cold storage units in red bags labelled not for use and later submitted to State vaccine stores. All vials will be tested in phases to check for any possible contamination. Sources said water samples from drains were being collected and sent for tests as the virus can be found in human excreta. Collecting samples from sewage and sending them for tests is a regular process. It has only been stepped up now. Besides this, as part of active surveillance, whenever doctors come across children below 15 years with weakness in their knees or paralysis, their stool samples are collected and sent for tests, an official from the Health Department said. Bio-Med Pvt ltd did not respond to queries sent on Tuesday. By Express News Service KOCHI: Even 18 months after the first Ro-Ro vessel project was launched on the Fort Kochi -Vypeen route, uncertainty continues over the commissioning of the second Ro-Ro vessel on the route. The reason: The Kerala Shipping and Inland Navigation Corporation (KSINC) which was entrusted with the operation of the Ro-Ro vessel is yet to find sufficient crew to operate the vessel. Though the KSINC has started providing training, it was later suspended after the propeller of the second vessel got damaged. The vessel is at the dockyard of the Cochin Shipyard for several months. "Yes, the Kochi Corporation's Ro-Ro vessel has landed in troubled water as the KSINC is still clueless about its future operation. Though they have started providing training, they have failed to find a qualified person to operate the Ro-Ro vessel. The KSINC proved they are only capable of operating a single vessel on-the Fort Kochi - Vypeen route," said K J Antony, Opposition leader, Kochi, Corporation, adding it is also an administrative failure from the Kochi Corporation. He also added the KSINC will have to spend nearly Rs 20 lakh as repairing cost for the Ro-Ro vessel which is at the Shipyard's dockyard. " It is learnt the KSINC is not ready to spend such a whopping amount from their pocket. The uncertainty will again delay the full-fledged operation of vessel," said Antony. Majnu Komath, Fort Vypeen Janakeeya Kootayma chairman, said the Corporation lost its interest over conducting the Ro-Ro service. "Almost one and a half years have passed after the Ro-Ro started plying on the route, but the second vessel still remains underutilised. Though the Corporation entrusted the KSINC to operate it, the civic body has a responsibility to conduct the service," said Komath. Meanwhile, the Corporation officials said KSINC purposefully made the western Kochiites be at the receiving end. "It was a few days ago the KSINC launched the Nefertiti ship. If they have staff shortage for operating the Ro-Ro vessels how can they operate the touristvessel? Their promises are fake as they failed to keep it," said a Corporation officer requesting anonymity. However, the KSINC officials were unavailable for comment when Express tried to call them. By Express News Service VIJAYAWADA: The city of Vijayawada, which enjoys the distinction of being an abode for different institutions of beliefs Kanaka Durga temple, Gunadala Mary Shrine, Athiest Centre and others -- now has another feather added to its secular cap. A temple for Mahatma Gandhi has been inaugurated at Syed Appalaswamy Degree College to propagate the Gandhian philosophy. The temple, a first in Andhra Pradesh, was inaugurated by Deputy Speaker Mandali Buddha Prasad on Tuesday. Rampilla Jayaprakash, director of the temple, said it was built with an objective to promote national integration. The temple will help us pass on the philosophies of Gandhi to future generations. These philosophies will, in turn, result in national integration without caste, creed and other social barriers hampering our social growth, Jayaprakash said. There are only two other temples in India for the Father of the Nation; one at Sambalpur, Odisha and the other at Nalgonda, Telangana. Jayaprakash, who has been organising 23-day-Gandhi Deeksha every year since 2012 to propagate the principles of Gandhi, imbibed them from his freedom-fighter-parents, Rampilla Suryanarayana and Rampilla Narasayamma. The temple was built in two years by the trust created in his fathers name: Rampilla Suryanarayana Trust. Built in about 150 sq yards, it has a nine feet tall Gandhi statue and a priest to offer prayers, Jayaprakash said. The Gandhi Satakam, the 500 slokas on principles and greatness of Gandhi, will also be inscribed on the walls, he added. The people who participated in the inauguration of the temple said that the temple would add to the secularity of Vijayawada, which is the only city in the country to have a hillock named after Mahatma Gandhi at One Town. The Gandhi Hill, considered a monument of the independence struggle, has a 52-feet tall stupa of him and a memorial highlighting the theories he postulated. It is common for companies to organize various informal events where workers can come with their partners. One of those... Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry will start a two-day visit to the Japanese capital Tokyo on Wednesday to attend the ministerial meeting of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), scheduled for 6 and 7 October, Egypt's foreign ministry spokesperson Ahmed Hafez said. Shoukry will also meet with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and other Japanese officials to discuss boosting bilateral cooperation and regional issues of common interest. "The foreign minister's visit to Tokyo reflects the depth of the historical relations between the two countries, which date back to the 19th century, as well as the keenness of the political leadership in the two countries to develop ties on all levels," the FM statement said. Hafez noted that the Egyptian FM has an intensive schedule in Japan, which will include attending the Egyptian-Japanese Strategic Dialogue session along with his Japanese counterpart, as well as meetings of the Japanese-Egyptian Business Council. The spokesperson stressed that the visit to Cairo by the Japanese Prime Minister in January 2015, as well as Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi's visit to Japan in March 2016, reflected the deeply rooted historical relations between the two countries. He added that bilateral cooperation between the two countries covers many fields, especially in electricity and infrastructure projects in Egypt such as the Dairout barrages, the expansion of the Borg Al-Arab International Airport and the renovation of power plants, as well as the cooperation in education through the Egyptian-Japanese partnership programme. Trade exchange between Egypt and Japan reached $1.8 billion in 2017, and there are 50 Japanese companies operating in Egypt, the FM spokesperson noted. The cooperation also includes the construction of the fourth line of the Cairo metro and the tripartite cooperation between Japan's International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Egyptian Agency for Partnership and Development (EAPD). Search Keywords: Short link: Navein Darshan By Express News Service Filmmaker Ramkumar, who took the audience on a fun-filled retro journey with the rural fantasy Mundasupatti in 2014, is back with a completely contrasting release this week -- the grim psychological thriller, Ratsasan. He says it was a conscious decision to make a film which was very dissimilar to his debut. "After completing Mundasupatti, I came across the life of a serial killer. The incidents in his life caught my attention, and I felt that making a film based on them would be very intriguing. I then added elements from the life of three such killers and came up with one single villain character for Ratsasan." The director researched the back stories of brutal killers, their pattern of murders and their mannerisms to design the antagonist's character. "America has the highest number of serial killers and such murders happen regularly over there. But, this is not the case in India. Though we have had some famous murders, we are nowhere close in terms of numbers. Since the concept is fairly new to our audience, we worked on minute details to establish an emotional connection with the audience," he says. Ramkumar believes in taking the time to perfect a script before going on floors with a film. "Mundasupatti revolved around a very small incident, and so developing the short film version into a full-fledged screenplay took us a whole year. Similarly, for Ratsasan, I took more time writing the script, than on the sets," he says. Vishnu Vishal, who had previously donned the khakhi in Kullanari Kootam, plays a cop again in this film. Ramkumar says Vishnu's character will remind the audience of their own friends or family who are in the police force. "I've written and shot the character in a very realistic manner. Unlike the cooling glass-clad, larger-than-life cops we usually see in Tamil cinema, he plays a trainee sub-inspector in the film." He adds that he initially wrote the protagonist's character as a 40-year-old assistant commissioner living with his kid. "But many actors, including Vishnu, felt it wouldn't suit them. So I tweaked the role and changed it to an aspiring filmmaker-turned-sub inspector, without tampering with the main plot of the film. This actually became a blessing in disguise as I was able to add a lot of interesting elements to the script." Given the film is based on a serial killer, passing the censors without major cuts was a concern. But Ramkumar is happy that none of the shots crucial to the plot were cut out. "I wrote the script keeping in mind the restrictions of the censor board. Instead of showing the gory visuals on screen, I added dialogues and musical cues to invoke fear." Music also played an important part in sustaining the film's mood. The director even goes so far as to say that without Ghibran's background score, the film would be a half-baked product. "Music is a very important aspect of all my scripts. I ensure to make notes for the background score whenever I write a scene. There are a lot of theme music tracks in the film. I wanted Ghibran to give the score a unique treatment, and after seeing the final cut, I can confidently say that he will win the best background score at awards next year." Though Mundasupatti was a light-hearted comedy, the film had subtle messages against casteism and superstition. Ramkumar says Ratsasan also has a social message. "Though it may seem like a usual psychological thriller on the surface, it has more layers to it. We wanted to create an awareness among parents and children that even those close to their families like friends and relatives might have hidden evil intentions, and it is our responsibility to beware of such people. I really want parents to take their daughters to watch the film." The director, who will be joining hands with Dhanush for his next, says he will continue to make films with unique elements. "My next film with Dhanush sir will be a fantasy and the story will revolve around his interesting and unusual character. I've just come up with a base story and the scripting process will take about 6-7 months. I believe a script takes that much time to come to life organically. It is definitely not a serious film like Ratsasan. It'll be a commercial film in my own style." By Express News Service HYDERABAD: Congress party has raised concern over the movie NOTA, which is set to be released on Friday. Speaking at Gandhi Bhavan here on Tuesday, TPCC treasurer Gudur Narayan Reddy said, The movie might influence voters during election time. Even the trailer of the movie shows politicians in a poor light. Especially, youth might be misled to vote for NOTA option during elections. This might defeat the very purpose of the polls, he said. It may be recalled here that Telugu actor Vijay Devarakonda is starring in this movie. While the movie is being released in both Telugu and Tamil, politicians from Telangana have been raising objections over the movie. We want Chief Electoral Officer to watch the movie and then release only if he thinks that it does not influence the voters, senior Congress leader Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy said. ALSO READ: We kept glaring at the director for the tough song: NOTA star Vijay Devarakonda on 'Shot Number' By PTI NEW DELHI: India is targeting 40 per cent of electricity generation from non-fossil fuel-based resources by 2030 as it looks to tap vast solar and wind potential to replace reliance on polluting coal to meet its energy needs, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday. Modi said he saw the 121-country International Solar Alliance as the future OPEC for meeting energy needs of the world. Oil cartel OPEC led by Saudi Arabia currently meets close to half of the world's oil needs. Speaking at the first Assembly of the ISA here, he said the solar power will play the same role that oil wells have played over the past few decades in meeting global energy needs. Humans have in the last 150-200 years relied on resources trapped below the earth's surface for meeting energy needs. But for a secure future, resources available above the ground like solar and wind energy need to be harnessed, he said. Smokes billowing above the thermal power plants in Thoothukudi. (EPS |V Karthikalagu) Stating that the focus must be on renewable sources for meeting energy needs, he said India wants to bring all UN members on board of ISA. Modi said 50 GW of renewable energy will be soon added to existing capacity and non-hydro renewable will contribute 20 per cent of total energy. "This is the right time to invest in solar manufacturing," he said adding he saw an investment potential of Rs 70,000 crore to Rs 80,000 crore in solar manufacturing. The prime minister said 31 crore LED bulbs save 40,000 million units of electricity and Rs 16,000 crore in a year. He said 28 lakh solar pumps can save 10 GW of electricity every year. Neha Bhandarkar By Online Desk The students of the Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT), Nagpur today staged a sit-in in front of the academic block demanding proper food and healthcare facilities on campus along with a list of other pressing issues. The students were left panic-stricken after over 150 female students from the same hostel took ill last week. While students allege that the incidences of fever are due to food poisoning, the college officials have claimed this to be a viral outbreak. Quality of food served pic.twitter.com/QnDMZFJgpE Suffering VNIT Student (@StudentVnit) October 1, 2018 On speaking to the director of VNIT, Pramod M Padole, he said, This is just a viral infection and is contracted by everyone. The students live together, which is how they contracted the virus and fell sick. The students reportedly started falling sick last week from the evening of September 29 onwards. They allege that they have reminded the college authorities on multiple occasions about the unhygienic food since the last two months apart from other issues including the lack of potable water, LAN connections, and a flush that did not work in the toilets. These problems are being reported from the newly-built hostel, which has several other issues such as seepage from walls and faulty electrical wiring. Now that so many of us have fallen sick, we are afraid to eat from the mess. All our complaints have fallen on deaf ears. The contractor who is responsible for providing food in the mess has been fined twice, but nothing has changed. We do not want to take the risk of eating in the mess again, but we dont have any other choice since the authorities have banned food delivery to the hostel premises, a student said on the condition of anonymity. When asked about students claims, Padole reiterated that the infection is viral. Dismissing the claims that some of the students had to be admitted to the ICU, he said, They were just kept under observation for a longer period, and everyone has recovered now. A thread on Twitter with hashtag #prayforVNIT was shared on Tuesday by an account called @Suffering VNIT Student. The thread while appealing to Union HRD minister Prakash Javadekar shared pictures of the poor quality of food served in the college hostels. @HRDministry @PrakashJavdekar #prayforVNIT VISVESVARAYA NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY ,NAGPUR. Sir, please help us. We don't know whom we have to trust and to ask help for. Almost 200 girls fell ill from the same hostel over night because of food poisoning. Suffering VNIT Student (@StudentVnit) October 1, 2018 The on-campus medical officer Dr Pankaj Dhule who could not be reached immediately said, The college will make an official statement on the issue soon. Anand ST Das By Express News Service PATNA: Remains of human skeletons were on Wednesday exhumed at a cremation ground in Bihars Muzaffarpur by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in course of the probe into the horrific sexual assaults on young girls residing at a government-run shelter home in the town. The skeletal remains were dug out at the Sikandarpur cremation ground by CBI officials with the help of an earth-digger machine and workers. Sources said the digging was carried out on the basis of inputs gleaned from CBIs interrogation with Vijay Tewari, the driver of Brajesh Thakur, the main accused in the case who owned the NGO that ran the shelter home. The skeletal remains would be put under a forensic test followed by a DNA test. There is a strong possibility that they belong to a minor girl inmate of the shelter home who was allegedly killed after being raped and of four others who had gone missing, said a senior official familiar with the exhumation exercise. Digging was carried out at the spots pointed out by Vijay Tewari, who was present at the site throughout the exercise, said sources. The skeletal remains recovered are believed to be of five persons, they added. Tewari, two other associates of Brajesh Thakur and Bihar social welfare department assistant director Rosy Rani were arrested by CBI last month. Some inmates of the shelter home run by Thakurs NGO Seva Sankalp Evam Vikas Samiti (SSVS) had told police during the probe in July that one of the inmates was brutally killed after frequent sexual abuse and that her body was quietly buried. Muzaffarpur police, which probed the case and arrested ten people before CBI took over the case on July 29, had also carried out digging at a few sites, but found nothing. A medical examination of 44 girls residing at the shelter home, aged between seven and 17, at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) had confirmed that 34 of them had been subjected to rape several times during their stay there. Some of these girls are aged seven years. Patna High Court is monitoring the ongoing probe by CBI. The sexual abuses had come to light in a social audit report of shelter homes in Bihar prepared by Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS). After the scandal surfaced, Bihars social welfare minister Manju Verma had to resign. By PTI JAIPUR: The Rajasthan Police claimed Wednesday they had found no evidence of firing on the witnesses of the Pehlu Khan lynching case and termed the complaint fake. The witnesses in the lynching case, including Khan's two sons, had alleged Saturday they were fired upon by unidentified men while they were on the way to appear in a court in Behror town. "No firing on the witnesses took place and the complaint was fake. There was no circumstantial evidence of firing and no such vehicle, as described by the complainant, is seen in CCTV footage," Circle Officer Behror Kushal Singh said. "The complaint was posted on social media about the alleged incident but they did not inform the police control room. They went to the SP office instead of approaching a nearby police station which had raised doubts," he said. Khan's son Irshad had lodged the complaint in the matter at the Neemrana Police Station. Singh said the police will file a report in the court and legal action against the complainant will also be taken for filing a false complaint. Six people, including Khan's sons Irshad and Arif and their lawyer, were on the way to court in Behror. They had alleged unidentified accused driving in an SUV without having registration number plate fired on them and fled from the spot. On April 1 last year, Irshad and Arif were with their father in a pick-up truck when they, along with two others, were attacked by cow vigilantes in Alwar. They were on their way to Haryana reportedly after purchasing cattle in Rajasthan. Khan, a 55-year-old dairy farmer, succumbed to his injuries two days later. By PTI NEW DELHI: Seven Rohingya immigrants, who have been staying in Assam illegally, will be deported to their home country Myanmar Thursday, officials said in New Delhi. This is for the first time Rohingya immigrants would be sent back to Myanmar from India. Seven Rohingya immigrants will be handed over to Myanmar authorities at Moreh border post in Manipur Thursday, a home ministry official said. The illegal immigrants have been staying at a detention centre in Silchar, Assam, since 2012, when they were detained by police. Consular access had been given to Myanmar diplomats, who confirmed the identity of the immigrants, the official said. Another official said the confirmation of the Myanmarese citizenship of the illegal immigrants came after the government of the neighbouring country verified their addresses in Rakhine State. The Indian government told Parliament last year that more than 14,000 Rohingya people, registered with the UN refugee agency UNHCR, stay in India. However, aid agencies estimate there are about 40,000 Rohingya people in the country. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims, described by the UN as the most persecuted minority in the world, fled their homes last year to escape an alleged crackdown by the Myanmarese military. Human rights group Amnesty International has blamed Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and the country's government for "burying their heads in the sand over the horrors unfolding in Rakhine State". By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Its now official. India will sign a $5 billion deal to buy S-400 air defence systems during Russian President Vladimir Putins visit to New Delhi this week, a top Kremlin aide confirmed on Tuesday. The President is leaving for India on October 4. The key feature will be the signing of the agreement to deliver S-400 air defence systems, Putins top foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov told reporters in Moscow. The deal will be inked despite the US indicating it could attract sanctions, shortly after it imposed similar curbs on Chinese firms buying Russian Su-35 fighter planes and one S-400 air defence system. The sanctions are part of the action against Russia for the annexation of Crimea. India pushed for a special waiver when US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Secretary of State Michael Pompeo ca last month. A senior Pentagon official said in August that sanctions against India would come under consideration if its purchase goes through. India has signalled it will ask Washington for a special waiver from sanctions, though a US official last week said there is no guarantee it would do so. Meanwhile, Putin will get a gift of three flight-worthy made-in-India MiG 21 fighter jets when he visits New Delhi. (With Inputs from AFP) By Express News Service NEW DELHI: The Maharashtra government on Wednesday moved the Supreme Court challenging the Delhi High Court order allowing Gautam Navlakha, one of the five activists arrested in connection with the Bhima-Koregaon case, to be freed from house arrest. Activist Gautam Navlakha The high court had earlier this week freed Navlakha after over a month of house arrest and also quashed a trial courts transit remand order.In its plea, the Maharashtra government stated that the HC had misread the Criminal Procedure Code while allowing Navlakha to be freed. The case in hand depicts misreading of Section 167 (1) and (2) of Code of Criminal Procedure by the High Court while passing the impugned order, said the petition filed by Shivaji P Pawar, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Pune. As per Section 167 (1), in case an accused is to be produced before the jurisdictional magistrate, then it is incumbent upon the police to produce the case diary.The plea said in case the police applies for transit remand before a magistrate having no jurisdiction, then it is not necessary for it to produce the case diary. In the case in hand, the police arrested five persons from different places in the country. It was, therefore, not expected and not possible to produce the case diary before the concerned courts, the plea said. By Express News Service SERVIALASORE: The family members of Gitarani Das in Uttar Pradesh's Gazipur village celebrated her homecoming. Gitarani, who went missing 25 years ago was found by the members of a Kerala-based NGO who rescued her and helped her reunite with her family. Gitarani used to work as a domestic help in Cuttack, Odisha where she married a youth and the couple had a son. Six months after her wedding, she went to her parent's house along with her son and left him under the care of her mother and brother. Gitarani reportedly went missing while she was on her way back to Cuttack. Despite continued efforts, her family members couldn't find her for years. Eventually, they were forced to believe that Gitarani was no more. Her son Chandan is now 26 years old and is married. It was learnt that Gitarani was mentally unstable when she went missing and she somehow reached Kerala. There, she worked as a domestic help in several houses before she was rescued by the NGO and admitted to a shelter home. After she recovered from her mental ailment, Gitarani was able to recall her past. The NGO then got in touch with her family and helped in the reunion. At home, Gitarani was able to recognise her mother and brother. Spending several years at Kerala she had forgotten Odia language and was able to only speak in Hindi and Malayalam. Surprisingly, Gita now wants to go back to Kerala as she has found it difficult to get accustomed with her family surrounding. Egypt's interior ministry said in a statement on Wednesday that police have killed 15 terrorists in a shootout in North Sinai's El-Arish City. The ministry said that the farm hideout was located by the national security department at the ministry. The ministry added that the terrorists were planning on carrying out hostile operations during the anniversary of Egypts 6 October victory. Police found five automatic rifles, four birdshot guns, three improvised explosive devices and a large quantity of ammunition. Search Keywords: Short link: By ANI NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will receive the United Nations' highest environmental honour, the 'UNEP Champions of the Earth' award, at a special ceremony in the Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra today. The award announced on September 26, on the sidelines of 73rd UN General Assembly at New York City, will be presented by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, read a statement. The Prime Minister will also address the gathering. "Prime Minister Modi has been selected in the leadership category for his pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and for his unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022," the statement added. Awarded annually, the 'Champions of the Earth' prize is given to outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions "have had a positive impact on the environment". Manish Anand By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhans poll engagements are apparently delaying a key panels suggestions to the Centre in coordinating policy approaches for agriculture and MGNREGS At the NITI Aayogs fourth Governing Council meeting in June, Modi had entrusted the CMs panel with the task to formulate the roadmap which could soothe fraying tempers of farmers. The NITI Aayog, as a part of the exercise suggested by the panel headed by Chouhan, has held brainstorming sessions with stakeholders. We are ready with draft roadmap for convergence of MGNREGS with agriculture. We expected a final meeting of the CMs panel in August-end. But we still dont know yet when it will happen, said a senior Niti Aayog official. We are trying to get the MP CM on board to hold the final meeting. But, he seems to be busy. Besides Chouhan, Nitish Kumar (Bihar), N Chandra Babu Naidu (Andhra Pradesh), Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh), Vijay Rupani (Gujarat), Mamata Banerjee (West Bengal), and Pawan Kumar Chamling (Sikkim) are the other members. Incidentally, Chouhan is caught with Jan Ashirvad yatra to connect with electorate in all the 230 Assembly constituencies of his state. He is seemingly not taking any chance for the Assembly election, given that an internal assessment of the BJP showed anti-incumbency factor. Last month too, Chouhan had sought permission from BJP chief Amit Shah to be excused for the second day of the partys conclave, sources said. The NITI Aayog apparently wants the CMs panel to address a few of the key issues since they require political answers, which may necessitate amendments in the MGNREGA either through executive or legislative route. The topmost issue is the extent to which MGNREGS funds could be utilised to pay for farm labour cost to bring down the input burden of farmers, added the official. Harpreet Bajwa By Express News Service CHANDIGARH: The ruling Congress government and the principal Opposition Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) in Punjab on Tuesday opposed the Centres September 25 notification which diluted Punjabs control over Chandigarh. The notification brought various posts of Chandigarhs Administration, including the post of the Deputy Superintendent of Police, within the ambit of the Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police Service (DANIPS) Cadre. Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh said he had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking him to reconsider the notification. He added that he would take up the issue with the PM at a meeting in New Delhi on Thursday. The 60:40 ratio, as decided upon in 1966 at the time of division of Punjab and Haryana must not be disturbed,he stressed. Former Punjab Chief Minister and SAD patron Parkash Singh Badal also issued a strong protest. Its a wrong decision and is an injustice to Punjab. It is an injustice with Punjab that it has not got its capital. In case of bifurcation of states, generally, the parent state retains the capital. But it is not the case with Punjab, The party MPs will take up this issue with the minister concerned and the central BJP leadership, he said. Punjabs Local Government, Culture and Tourism Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu also wrote to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh terming the notification as being against the very foundation and purpose of the Punjab Reorganisation Act and the Rajiv Longowal Accord. Both Punjab and Haryana have been repeatedly asking the Centre for a higher share to their officers in Chandigarhs Administration. By Express News Service LUCKNOW: Alleged inaction by the district police in a murder case drove a Muslim family to embrace Hinduism in Baghpat district of UP on Tuesday. The family members claimed that they were converting as they were not getting justice for the murder of a family member. However, Baghpat District Magistrate has ordered a high-level probe into the incident. The family, subsequently, submitted affidavit to the sub-divisional magistrate of Badaut town testifying their voluntary change of religion, said an official of district administration. He added that all of them embraced Hinduism on their own and that there was no pressure from any quarter on them. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and workers of Hindu Yuva Vahini called it 'ghar wapsi' and organized a 'havan' in their village to complete the conversion process. The family was also given Hindu names. Sources claimed that the family members donned saffron robes and chanted -"Jai Shri Ram-". Vande Matram was also rendered after the conversion ceremony. Those who switched over to Hinduism included Akhtar Ali, Nafisa, Zakir, Dilshad, Naushad, Irshad, and others. While Akhtar Ali, 68, the family head is now known as Dharam Singh, his sons changed their names from Dilshad to Diler, Naushad to Narendra and Irshad to Kavi. Those converted also included Akhtar's three daughters-in-law, two grandsons and four granddaughters. According to Vahini's district president Yogender Tomar, it was not a case of conversion, but reconversion. This family's ancestors had converted to Islam some 5-6 generations ago. "Now, they are back into Hinduism," he told media persons. As per Akhtar Ali,68, his son Gulshan Ali, 28, was -"murdered-" by some members of Muslim community in Nevada village in the month of July. Gulshan was found hanging from a clothes' hanger in his shop. "It was quite evident that Gulshan was murdered as it was not possible to die by hanging from hanger," Akhtar said while talking to media persons. The police, however, registered a case of suicide and when the family approached senior officials, they got no reprieve. Around 3000 Muslims were present in the village but no one came forward for family's help. After a few days, the local police even closed the case calling it a suicide. "Despite submitting several applications to the higher authorities, we failed to get a justice,-" Akhtar said. "This triggered the thought to convert to Hinduism which may probably make the cops probe the murder of Gulshan sincerely," Akhtar said. "Later, a Muslim panchayat was held where we were humiliated instead of being offered any help. Facing non-cooperation from our own community, we decided to change our religion. We hope to get justice now," Akhtar Ali said. Baghpat District Magistrate Rishirendra Kumar confirmed the incident and ordered a high-level probe in coordination with police administration into the issue. He felt that it was a gimmick to pressure administration and police to conduct investigation into a case according to their will. "On Monday, five persons had come to Badaut tehsil with an application for conversion of 20 of their family members. On Tuesday, the number got reduced to 13. Besides, they are members of Nat community (acrobats) which has people practising multiple faiths.-" SP Shailesh Kumar Pandey also admitted to having received information about the incident saying that matter was being looked into. However, the SP said the family allegations of police apathy were unfounded. "The family had filed a complaint against four of their relatives. The post-mortem report was inconclusive. Later, they got an FIR filed under IPC's section 302 (murder) through court. Even at this point, the autopsy report is under consideration by a medico-legal expert. Once his report arrives, we will be able to say anything with certainty," the SP said. Meanwhile, Mulsim clerics and maulanas expressed concern over the incident. They exhorted the community to take the matter seriously. -"The situation is alarming and Muslim organisations should note it," said Maulana Khalid Rasheed Firangimahali, member, All India Muslim Personal Law Board. By Express News Service BHOPAL: In a shocking episode, a five-year-old girl was sexually assaulted allegedly by two middle-aged priests inside a temple in Datia district of Madhya Pradesh. The alleged incident happened inside the temple in Uchad Village under Goraghat police station area on Tuesday. The minor was lured into the temple by the accused duo Raju Mahant and Batoli Prajapati in the name of giving sweets as Prasad. Once inside the temple, the duo did the unimaginable and sexually assaulted the minor and then dropped the child outside her house. They also frightened the girl by threatening her with dire consequences, if she made the matter public. The matter came to the fore after the minor, unable to bear the pain in her private parts, narrated to her mother the savagery she had undergone inside the shrine. The matter was subsequently reported to the police, which lodged a case and arrested the accused duo. The victim has been admitted at Datia district hospital, where her condition is stated to be stable. The duo has been booked for rape under Section 376 of IPC as well as under provisions of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012. Meanwhile, the police are also investigating possibility of more minors having been sexually abused by the two priests, a senior police official in Datia said. Karamatullah K Ghori By It was a bizarre spectacle that is rarely seen on the global diplomatic stage, although diplomats are known for pulling rabbits out of the hat at any moment.The stage was the meeting of SAARC foreign ministers on the sidelines of the annual United Nations General Assembly jamboree in New York, on September 27. Indian external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj had just concluded her address and her Pakistani counterpart, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, was about to follow suit when the former got up and smilingly walked out of the room. The calculated snub by the Indian external affairs minister was too obvious to be lost on anyone, though it was least expected of one charged to be the global face of Indias diplomatic corps. It is taken for granted in diplomatic conduct, as a basic nicety not to be dispensed with, that you listen to whatever the other guy has to say, even if it happens to be an enemy of yours. That Swaraj couldnt care less about the negative fallout of the insult she deliberately heaped on her Pakistani counterpart tells a lot about how the Modi government in India has chosen to respond to the new political dispensation, led by premier Imran Khan, in Pakistan. Imran, a novice to the arcane art of diplomacy, was not expected to make an early impact on the diplomatic front. However, he caught friends and foes alike by total surprise when he animated the long-moribund India-Pakistan bilateral front by telling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modiin his maiden address to his people after winning their trust in the late July electionsthat for every single step taken by India to break the logjam, his government would take two steps forward. Diplomatic pundits were surprised at the maturity with which Pakistans new prime minister had suddenly infused life into what many were resigned to seeing as a dead horse. The Kaptan (the captain), as hes fondly remembered by his fawning fans, was going to play on the front foot in foreign affairs, to the bewilderment of his detractors. The Pakistani prime minister took time to respond to Modis routine message of felicitations. But when Imran did, he suggested to his Indian counterpart that the two foreign ministers of the two countries, who were going to be in New York for the United Nations General Assembly session, meet on the conclaves sidelines. It was apparent that he was keen to end the impasse and take the ties with India to an active mode. The initial Indian response was positive. A spokesman of the External Affairs Ministry in Delhi told the world that the Indian external affairs minister was ready to have a tete-a-tete with Qureshi in New York over lunch. But then things changed. Within 24 hours, the same Indian spokesman reappeared on the stage to douse cold water over the Pakistani initiative. And he did so in a manner that presaged Swarajs solo act a few days later in New York. He used hard, incendiary language to rubbish the idea of a meeting between the two top diplomats of India and Pakistan. The Indian spokesman accused neighbour Pakistan of harbouring evil designs and didnt spare Imran either, criticising him for his hidden agenda. Optics have their own attention power in our digital age where a picture tells a million words. The Indian spokesmans volte-face not only caught the world by surprise, because of the verbal vitriolics, but his choice of attire also told tales. A day earlier, the Indian spokesman was garbed in a suit and tie, and he conveyed his nations concurrence in impeccable English. But when he shot down the Pakistani idea he donned the attire of Modis choice, and he spoke in Hindi, the language of Indian masses. The Pakistani reaction to Indias sudden change of heart was initially one of shock and disbelief. How could one eat ones words in less than 24 hours? What of all those protestations of peace from Indian leaders and the commitment to live in peace and harmony with all its neighbours? But an enforced reality-check didnt take long to settle in with pundits who had been scratching their heads in utter dismay. Prime Minister Modis domestic agenda had overtaken the need to respond positively to neighbour Imrans peace overture. Pakistans prime minister has just come out of the woods and the sun is likely to keep shining for him for the next five years. He is not likely to face any elections in the immediate future. But the Indian prime minister must keep a sharp eye out on the elections to be held next year and the prospects do not seem all that rosy for him. If non-partisan Indian pundits and analysts are to be believed, the 2019 elections dont promise to be hunky-dory for the BJP government. Its populist base has slipped because many of its populist schemes havent delivered dividends to the masses. To muddy the waters even more for the Union government, it is now faced with corruption and cronyism charges of the type that sounded the death knell for Nawaz Sharif in Pakistan. The Rafale aircraft saga is threatening to engulf the BJP as Bofors did former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Unfortunate as it may be, the infatuation of Indias ruling BJP with Hindutva is threatening to rob India and Pakistan of a great peace initiative. Political brinkmanship trumping statesmanship is myopic. Status quo politics is dangerous. Karamatullah K Ghori Former Pakistani diplomat Email: K_K_ghori@hotmail.com Phanindra Papasani By Express News Service VIJAYAWADA: DGP RP Thakur will fly to Bhubaneswar on Thursday to coordinate effectively with Odisha police to make the Andhra-Odisha border region free of Maoists. High on his agenda is sharing of intelligence on the movements of the Maoists, who are on the run after killing Araku MLA Kidari Sarveswara Rao and former legislator Siveri Soma on September 23 in Dumbriguda mandal. The cooperation will not be limited to intelligence but will also include joint operations. The State police chief will meet his Odisha counterpart Rajendra Prasad Sharma and discuss measures to be taken immediately. Combing operations are already on in the border region with APs Greyhounds, the elite anti-Maoist force, scouring the area even on the Odisha side. According to reliable sources, the Maoists fled to the other side of the border after killing the two Telugu Desam leaders and are taking shelter in interior forest areas close to the Andhra border. Against this backdrop, the old proposal to create a force comprising police personnel from Naxal-affected states that share borders with Andhra Pradesh Odisha and Chhattisgarh is likely to come up for discussion. Also Read | Police zero in on slain MLAs aide who helped Maoists carry out attack A senior police official on condition of anonymity told TNIE that the proposal of forming an Inter-state force was discussed earlier too, but was stalled subsequently as Odisha and Chhattisgarh were not forthcoming. Though the idea might sound good on paper, he said, there will be command and control issues with who will lead to becoming the main bone of contention. AP is better placed when compared to our neighbouring states. Though the performance of Odisha police has improved of late, they are not as good as us. The Greyhounds is very professional, the official said. Earlier, RP Thakur met CM Naidu and submitted a status report on the ongoing probe into the killings. By Express News Service VIJAYAWADA: GITAM University founder and Andhra Pradesh state Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Dr Mathukumilli Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Murthi, popularly known as MVVS Murthi, died in a car accident in the United States of America on Tuesday. He also served as Member of Parliament from Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha constituency twice. Murthi along with four others was travelling from California to Alaska to visit a wildlife safari near Anchorage when their car collided with a truck coming from the opposite direction. Four people, including Murthi, died in the accident while one person has been admitted to the hospital in a serious condition, reports reaching here said. The other deceased have been identified as Basava Punnaiah, Veeramachineni Sivaramakrishna and VBR Chowdary. Murthi had gone to USA recently to attend GITAM Alumni Association of North America (GANAM), which is scheduled on October 6. Photo of the accident spot in USA 80-year-old MVVS Murthi was born in an affluent agricultural family in Konaseema area of Moolapolam Village, Ainavilli Mandal, East Godavari District on July 3, 1938. After formal schooling at his native place, he moved on to Kakinada for higher studies and graduated in Economics from PR Government College. He obtained Masters Degree in Politics & Public Administration, B.L., and also Ph.D. in Economics from Andhra University. Dr MVVS Murthi is a multifaceted personality imbibing the qualities of an industrialist, educationist, politician and philanthropist. After a brief stint as an advocate in the High Court of Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad, he shifted to business and established Visakha Bottling Company (VBC) in 1967 with a modest investment. The VBC was a phenomenal success in the manufacturing of soft drinks. In education front, Murthi started Womens Government Junior College at Amalapuram and also established Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Junior College at Vadlapudi in Visakhapatnam and Sri Seetarama Degree College in Poosapatirega, Vizianagaram District and MPM Trust Junior College for weaker sections at Moolapolam Village, Ainavilli Mandal, East Godavari District, his birthplace. To realize his dream of providing quality in Technical and Higher education, he started Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (GITAM) in the year 1980. Recognizing the quality in higher education provided by the Institute, Union Ministry of Human Resources & Development granted Deemed University status to GITAM in the year 2007 under section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956. GITAM University with its main campus at Visakhapatnam and off campuses at Hyderabad and Bengaluru is a leader in imparting higher education in diverse fields. On the political front, Murthi was one of the founder members of the now ruling Telugu Desam Party founded by Late N T Rama Rao. Visakhapatnam city saw a phenomenal growth when it comes to developing greenery during his tenure as the chairman of Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) between 1987 and 1989. The Green Visakha concept was his idea and VUDA was in forefront of plantations in the entire country. Visakhapatnam's tourist attraction and iconic landmark, Kailasagiri park, was initiated during his tenure and he was also instrumental in expanding the VUDA Park. Murthi was elected twice in 1991 and in 1999 as a member of 10th and 13th Lok Sabha from Visakhapatnam. Presently, Murthi is an MLC from Visakhapatnam district. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and a host of TDP leaders from AP and Telangana condoled the death of Murthi in the road accident. Sreekantswamy B By Express News Service MYSURU: While economists across the world were eagerly waiting to know who would be the next chief economist for International Monetary Fund (IMF), a couple in Mysuru already knew about it well in advance. For the parents of Gita Gopinath, who has been appointed to the top key post at the IMF, it was business, as usual, this Monday when the big news was announced. Gitas 82-year-old father T V Gopinath, an industrialist-turned-agriculturist, was on his way to attend a seminar on marketing agricultural produces scheduled at Jaipur in Rajasthan, when the official announcement came at 7.30 pm (IST). Her mother Vijayalakshmi was busy teaching at a school near their house in Kuvempunagar. I was in Bengaluru along with my daughter two weeks ago, when she got a call from the IMF office. However, she was told to keep the news to herself until an official announcement was made, recalled Gopinath. Exactly 38 years ago in 1980, Gopinath had come down to Mysuru after his stint at various industries in New Delhi, Kolkata and other states. Since then, he has made Mysuru his second home. Gita, eight-year-old then, joined Nirmala Convent in V V Mohalla, where she studied from class three to SSLC, which she passed with about 98% marks, elated Gopinath told The New Indian Express. Though Gita preferred to study science at PU level from Mahajanas College in Jayalakshmipuram, she drifted towards Arts at the undergraduate level. It was her zeal to study economics that took her to Lady Shri Ram College for Women in New Delhi. There has been no looking back since then. She further went on to pursue MA from Delhi School of Economics and University of Washington too later. She is in Boston ever since she joined Harvard in USA in 2005 as the professor of international studies and economics. She will be visiting Mysuru in December again. Every year, she takes a break during this time of the year to catch up with the family here. She will be assuming charge of her new role on January 4, said Gopinath. Enterprising quality runs in her blood Gita Gopinath seems to have acquired the enterprising qualities from her father, who has dabbled in many fields. His latest interest lies in agriculture and dairy farming. He recently bought 30 herds of cattle of Gir breed from Nagpur in Maharashtra, in addition to the existing number of cattle at his 50-acre Gopi Farm at Chellahalli near Bilikere in Hunsur taluk. He has been growing horticultural crops like guava, mango and sapota at his farm over the past 12 years. Prior to that, he had taken a farm on lease in Kodagu, where he was into anthurium cultivation. He was one of the largest growers of the plant in the region at one time. Regarding his industrial career, ISI-marked ceiling fans were manufactured at Gitas fathers factory Vineetha Electricals in Metagalli Industrial Area which closed about two decades ago. By Express News Service UDUPI: District In-charge Minister Jayamala skipped Gandhi Jayanti celebration organised by the district administration on Tuesday despite being present in the town. Later speaking to reporters, she defended her decision and said, It is not in the specific area or the region that he should be remembered. Mahatma can be remembered everywhere. She also declined to comment on the absence of the parliamentarian and other district leaders. To a query, she said the state government has done everything to save the lives of the farmers by waiving off the loans. She said that the causes behind farmers suicide in the aftermath of loan waive off measure taken by the government is not clearly know and urged the farmers not to take the extreme step. Cong workers question her silence District Minister Jayamala was on Tuesday left red-faced as some Congress workers took her to task for her silence over police lathi-charge on them during the Bharat bandh held to protest the hike in fuel price. Jayamala, who appeared deeply embarrassed by the workers behaviour, decided to leave the spot. She told reporters that she raised the issue with Superintendent of police Lakshman Nimbargi who justified the action, stating that it was needed to bring the situation under control. Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry has met with Iraqi parliament speaker Mohamed Halbousi in Cairo, where Shoukry expressed Egypt's keenness to intensify cooperation with Iraq, a statement by the Egyptian foreign ministry read. Shoukry said that Egypt wishes to cooperate with Iraq in all fields according to the needs of the brotherly country. Shoukry also congratulated Halbousi for "electing a new Iraqi president as well as tasking the new prime minister with forming a new cabinet in a democratic and transparent atmosphere that reflects the aspirations of the Iraqi people for a more secure, stable and prosperous country." On Tuesday, Iraq's parliament elected veteran Kurdish politician Barham Salih as president after months of political deadlock, with 219 of its 329 lawmakers voting in favour. Shoukry expressed to Halbousi "the importance of the depth and strength of Egyptian-Iraqi relations, which are reinforced by the bonds of social interaction between the two countries," adding that Egypt is keen to push bilateral relations into new and diverse horizons in various political, economic, commercial and cultural fields. During the meeting, Shoukry also stressed Egypt's support of Iraq's unity and sovereignty over all its territories. "Egypt is confident that Iraqi national institutions are capable of overcoming all obstacles," the statement read. Halbousi expressed appreciation for the brotherly ties between the two countries and for Egypts support of Iraq on all levels. Halbousi also stressed Iraqs keenness to strengthen bilateral cooperation frameworks with Egypt in various fields during the coming period. The two officials also touched on a number of Arab and regional issues of mutual concern and agreed on the need to enhance coordination to face the challenges facing the region and achieve peace and stability. Search Keywords: Short link: Anusha Ravi By Express News Service BENGALURU: Caution is the keyword for politicians in Karnataka when it comes to supporting or rejecting religious minority status to Lingayats. The demand for separate religious status is rearing its head again ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, and this time, members of the community batting for Lingayatism to be recognised as minority religion have their guns aimed at the central government. Given the impact, their association with the movement had on their electoral and political life, politicians in Karnataka are wary about voicing their support to the cause as strongly as they did before the assembly elections. As much as the Congress refuses to acknowledge in the open that the Siddaramaiah governments decision to recommend separate religious minority tag to Lingayats backfired in the assembly elections, party insiders say that it was one of the primary reasons for Congress failure. Such was the anger within the party that leaders like M B Patil, who was in the forefront of the movement, were denied cabinet berths. Many within the party attributed Vinay Kulkarnis loss to the Lingayat row as well. The seers who announced support to Congress refused to ask their followers to vote for us. The community voted for BJP heavily because a few Congress leaders misled the then government and convinced that the larger part of the community wanted separate religious status, said a source from the Congress. Basava Dharma Peethas woman seer Mathe Mahadevi has announced a three-day Lingayat convention from December 10-12 in New Delhi to pressurise the Union government to give its assent to Karnataka governments recommendation of religious minority status. Once bitten twice shy, leaders are now careful about how they get associated with the upcoming convention. Congress leader and Rashtriya Basava Senes Chief Vinay Kulkarni told The New Indian Express that many would back the convention as community members and not for political affiliations. There is nothing political about it, but as individuals from the community, many will support it. Seniors from the community will take part, he said stopping short of stating definitively if he would be part of the convention. There was no real impact on the assembly poll results. It is natural for some percentage of votes to be affected during such fights, Kulkarni said when asked if his open support for the cause cost him his seat. BJPs Rajya Sabha MP and prominent Lingayat leader Prabhakar Kore said that Mathe Mahadevis call for a convention had little significance. She or anybody is free to do whatever they want to. We will not intervene, but we havent recognised her as a leader and it really doesnt matter to us. People from the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community clearly understand what is happening, he said. Many from the BJP had accused the then Congress government of attempting to break the community for political gains. Leaders from the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community believe that a few seers urge to stay relevant is shadowing real issues of education, job opportunities especially for women within. With those lobbying for separate religious minority tag to Lingayats all set to rekindle the issue, all eyes are now on how the BJP-led NDA government plays its cards, especially when the potential impact of the Lingayat community as a vote bank has been established time and again in Karnataka. By Express News Service BHUBANESWAR: In a scathing attack on the Centre, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday said the BJP reminds him of the proverb empty vessels make the most noise. Flagging off the BJDs month-long Jana Sampark Padyatra from Jharana Basti here, Naveen, who is also president of the ruling BJD in the State, alleged that the NDA Government has failed to live up to the expectations of the people. The Chief Minister also criticised the BJP over the demand of Special Category State (SCS) status for Odisha. In its poll manifesto, the BJP had promised to accord SCS status to Odisha, but people of the State are waiting for the promise to be fulfilled. As we know, empty vessels make the most noise, he said. The month-long programme of the ruling party comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah visited the State on separate occasions, seeking the ouster of BJD Government in Odisha in 2019 elections. The Chief Minister had directly criticised the Centre during the visit of Modi over the issue of corruption. Claiming that his Government has fulfilled all promises made to the people before 2014 polls, the Chief Minister said he was forced to launch a food security scheme in the State as the Centre did not include households left out of National Food Security Act (NFSA).Naveen said his Government had to launch the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY) as the Centre rejected his terms and conditions for Ayushman Bharat programme. The people of Odisha know who fulfils promises and who does not, he said. Though the Chief Minister targeted the BJP during the launching of the padyatra, he left out Congress which is the principal opposition political party in the State. The Congress has 15 MLAs in the 147 member Assembly while the BJP has 10.During the yatra, BJD leaders will create awareness on the State Governments achievements and flagship programmes such as Ama Gaon Ama Vikash, Ama Sahara Ama Unnati, BSKY, Mission Shakti scheme. Reacting to Naveens allegations, the BJP said Odisha could not get the SCS status due to several factors, including the Governments inability to spend Central funds in its entirety.It is unfortunate that the Chief Minister is demanding special category status even after remaining in power for 18 years. The State Government has not been able to spend the Central assistance given by the NDA Government, said BJP general secretary Prithiwiraj Harichandan. Sahaya Novinston Lobo By Express News Service CHENNAI: Three of a family, sleeping in their house at Koyambedu, were found dead on Tuesday morning. Police suspect they were suffocated to death by the fumes from a diesel generator running inside the house. Neighbours said electricity in the area went off around midnight and the family may have switched on the generator to power fans in the house at Mettukulam, Koyambedu. Initially, locals suspected a gas leak from the air-conditioner. However, police later confirmed there was no such leak. Police said the family had tried to escape. S Saravanan, 38, was found dead near the hall, his wife Kalaiarasi, 30, on the bedroom floor hugging their eight-year-old son Karthikeyan. Family was preparing to celebrate boys birthday The couple may have attempted to escape, but it was apparently too late, said an investigating officer. The technicians said there was no leak from the AC. So, we now suspect fumes from the generator, said a police officer investigating the case. The police are awaiting the autopsy report to confirm the cause of death. Neighbours, who first entered the house on Tuesday morning, noticed a foul odour which made police suspect that the deaths were due to suffocation by fumes. The generator had been placed outside the bedroom door. Power went off two times last night. The first was around midnight and it was restored after 30 min. The second time was around 3 am. It was restored only early in the morning. I went to use the toilet at around 5.30am and heard the generator running inside the house. Usually, Saravanan would switch off the generator once power is restored, Sasikala, a neighbour said. Everyday, Kalaiarasi would come out to collect water from the hand pump at the street at 7 am. On holidays, she would be there at 9 am. Since it was a holiday, we thought they may get up late, but then becoming suspicious, I alerted others, Sasikala added. Neighbours eventually broke into the house as there was no response from the family. The three were rushed to a nearby hospital, but doctors said they were already dead. Saravanan (38) worked as a manager at a private firm at Senneerkuppam. Kalaiarasi was a nursing graduate working at a BPO company. Karthikeyan was studying in Class III at a private school nearby. Kumaran (25), younger brother of Kalaiarasi, lives a few metres away from the house. He said, We were planning for Karthikeyans birthday on Thursday. We gave family photos for printing birthday banners. But, everything has now changed, said Kumaran, who was waiting at Kilpauk Medical College Hospital to collect the bodies after post-mortem. Speaking to Express, Venugopal, an experienced air-conditioner mechanic, said the possibility of suffocation due to gas leakage from a split AC was low. If there was any gas leakage, it would be very slow. Immediate leakage would happen only if the outlet tube of the air-conditioner exploded. The sound of that explosion would be very loud, he said. Koyambedu police have registered a case. By Express News Service VELLORE: Human rights activist and the founder of May 17 Movement, Thirumurugan Gandhi, was on Tuesday released on bail after 53 days of imprisonment at Vellore Central Prison. Speaking to media persons in the evening, he said, Tamil Nadus young people should come forward and gather in unison to work and strive for the welfare and to protect the rights of the people. After his release, Thirumurugan and his supporters paid floral tributes to the Periyar statue near the Block Development Office at Anna Salai. Thirumurugan was arrested by Chennai police from Bengaluru airport on August 9 under Section 124 A (sedition charge) of the Indian Penal code (IPC). He was arrested while returning from Geneva where he had addressed the United Nations Human Rights Council and spoke about the recent firing in Thoothukudi that took the lives of 13 people. Speaking to media Thirumurugan accused the BJP-led Central government of issuing orders to Tamil Nadu government to stifle democratic voices in the state. While RSS and BJP members are not arrested nor any cases are filed against them for committing crimes, the government only executes orders to arrest democratic voices, which is condemnable, he said. Our entitlement to opinion is denied by the Tamil Nadu government. But, we will continue to work to uphold democracy in righteous ways and will continue to take democratic protests against unfair governance, said Thirumurugan. By PTI DHAKA: Bangladesh's top anti-corruption agency said Wednesday it would investigate into alleged corruption charges against former top judge Surendra Kumar Sinha - the first Hindu Chief Justice of the country - as a court referred a case against him to the independent statutory body. Sinha, 67, has alleged that he was forced to resign because he opposed the "undemocratic" and "authoritarian" regime. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government has refuted Sinha's allegations and charged him with corruption. He now lives in the US where he is said to have sought asylum. "Investigations will be launched into the allegation as the case (against Sinha) was referred to us," Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Iqbal Mahmud told a media briefing here, days after renegade BNP leader and former minister Nazmul Huda filed a case alleging that Sinha had demanded bribes from him. Mahmud said the ACC would analyse as well if the matter was within its purview "but since a court referred it to us, it could be assumed 'something is there' which needed our involvement". Huda, whose NDA party is now a ruling Awami League ally, alleged that Sinha had demanded from him an amount of Taka 3.25 crore (USD 386,904) for delivering judgment in a case in his favour while he was the chief justice. The case against Sinha came days after his newly launched autobiography brought him in political spotlight a year after he was forced to quit amid a row with the government. The ACC chief said if required the graft commission investigators would quiz Sinha and bring him back but "interrogation is not a mandatory provision for investigations". Mahmud said the ACC would also investigate into money laundering allegations involving Sinha's younger brother, who too now is in the US. In his autobiography 'A Broken Dream: Rule of Law, Human Rights and Democracy', Sinha said he was forced to resign last year following intimidation and threats, drawing a sharp reaction from Prime Minister Hasina who accused some anti-government newspapers of backing him. At the launch of his book in Washington this week, Sinha urged India to support the rule of law and democracy in Bangladesh, saying the Indian government should not ignore the peoples' will by backing the "autocratic" Awami League-led government. Sinha said that he was forced to resign because he had opposed the "undemocratic" and "authoritarian" regime. In his book, Sinha described in detail the circumstances under which he had to leave the country and resign as the Chief Justice of Bangladesh. Prime Minister Hasina has hinted certain quarters were backing Sinha with particular motive as he launched his autobiography a year after being forced to resign amid a row with her government. "Please unveil who gives money for launching the book, the state-run BSS quoted Hasina telling a press conference in New York recently where she joined the annual UN General Assembly session. By AFP BRASILIA: Police in Brazil have killed nine escaped inmates and are hunting 19 others after a jailbreak in the central north of the country during which prisoners took a teacher and guards hostage, authorities said. A total of 28 convicts fled the Barra de Grota prison in the town of Araguaina late Tuesday, running away to nearby woodland, regional security officials said in a statement Wednesday. They had grabbed the female teacher and three guards while attending a prison class and used the guards' weapons to force their way out. Two of the guards were released as military and local police pursued the inmates, but the 43-year-old teacher and a 27-year-old male guard remained hostage. The nine prisoners "died after clashing with police in a wood near the prison," the statement said, without giving details. The Barra de Grota penitentiary was holding 493 prisoners before the jailbreak, slightly more than the 480 it was designed for. Brazil has the third-biggest prison population in the world, after the United States and China. Overcrowding is a problem, and escapes, riots and score-settling are common. By PTI ISLAMABAD: A Pakistani top court has observed that the sentences of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, his daughter and son-in-law in a corruption case "may not be ultimately sustainable" as it issued a detailed judgement on Wednesday, two weeks after freeing the trio on bail. On September 19, a two-judge bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) gave the judgment on petitions filed by Sharif, Maryam and Capt (retd) Safdar challenging the Avenfield verdict against them. ALSO READ | Pak anti-corruption court irked at Nawaz Sharif's absence from hearing Justice Athar Minallah read the judgment and suspended the sentences handed to the three by Accountability Court judge Mohammad Bashir on July 6. Sharif, Maryam and Safdar were sentenced to 11 years, eight years and one year, respectively, in prison in the Avenfield properties case related to the purchase of four luxury flats in London through corrupt practices. The 41-page judgment on the IHC's September 19 order has been written by Justice Minallah, Geo News reported. "In hindsight, the sentences awarded to the suspects may not be ultimately sustainable," it quoted the judgment as saying. "The accountability court which awarded the sentences did not state how or refer to evidence regarding how Maryam assisted Nawaz (Sharif) in the purchase of the Avenfield apartments," it added. Further, the judgement stated, "The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) mostly relied on Panama Papers case to argue their points against suspension in sentences. " The prosecution did not challenge the acquittal, the judgment read. It said the court findings are not final and the judges said their opinions or observations will not influence the appeals, the bench further said in its judgment. "We accept the petitioners' pleas seeking a suspension in their sentences," Justice Minallah said. Ordering their release, the two-judge bench directed the former premier, his daughter and son-in-law to submit bail bonds worth Rs 500,000 each. Sharif, 68, Maryam, 44, and Safdar, 54, were also disqualified to contest elections or to hold public office for a period of 10 years after release. Both Maryam and Safdar are politicians. The sentences will on the trio remain suspended till the final adjudication of the appeals filed by them. Sharif and Maryam were arrested on July 13 upon arrival in Lahore from London. On July 16, the Sharifs had filed appeals for the Avenfield verdict to be overturned. Apart from the Avenfield case, the Sharifs face jail terms if they are convicted in two more corruption cases related to Al-Azizia and Flagship cases. The cases against the family stemmed from Panama Papers case in April 2016. ALSO READ | Pakistan court summons Nawaz Sharif in treason case over Mumbai attack remarks Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday rejected a petition filed by the NAB challenging the IHC's decision to hear Sharifs' petitions against the Avenfield verdict. On September 15, the anti-graft body had moved the Supreme Court in an effort to keep the IHC from ruling on an application from the Sharif family seeking the suspension of the Avenfield verdict. However, imposing a Rs 20,000 fine on the anit-graft bureau, Chief Justice Saqib Nisar noted that justice should be served to petitioners. By Associated Press SOUTHAVEN: President Donald Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi by mocking a woman who has claimed she was sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago. The audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Christine Blasey Ford's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She testified that Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s, when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Ford's allegations. "How did you get home? 'I don't remember,'" Trump said at the rally Tuesday in Southaven. "How did you get there? 'I don't remember.' Where is the place? 'I don't remember.' How many years ago was it? 'I don't know. I don't know. I don't know.'" ALSO READ | Democrats question Brett Kavanaugh's credibility, temperament Imitating Ford, he added, "But I had one beer that's the only thing I remember." It marked the sharpest criticism by Trump of Ford since she came forward publicly with the allegation last month. He had previously called Ford a "very credible witness." Ford's lawyer Michael Bromwich called Trump's attack "vicious, vile and soulless." A vicious, vile and soulless attack on Dr. Christine Blasey Ford. Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice. https://t.co/UJ0bGxV1EZ Michael R. Bromwich (@mrbromwich) 3 October 2018 The president was in Mississippi on Tuesday looking to use his influence to sway the outcome of a low-profile election that could tip the balance of the Senate. As Republicans fight headwinds ahead of the Nov. 6 midterm election, Trump sought to rally his supporters behind GOP Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, who was appointed to fill the seat of Republican Thad Cochran, who retired in April. She faces three candidates Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bernard Bartee in next month's special election for the remainder of the two-year term. "She's always had my back," Trump said. "She's always had your back. And a vote for Cindy is a vote for me." But Trump spent much of the rally lamenting the treatment of Kavanaugh by Democrats, whose attacks, he said, had taken their toll on the judge's family. "A man's life is in tatters," he said. Of Democrats, he added, "These are really evil people." Donald Trump at 'Make America Great Again'. (Photo | Twitter) He even raised questions about the drinking habits of Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy in an attempt to turn the tables on Democrats who have gone after Kavanaugh's beer drinking. Trump told the crowd they should do an online search for "Patrick Leahy slash drink." Leahy's office didn't immediately return a message seeking comment Tuesday. Some Republicans and White House allies have suggested the allegations against Kavanaugh can be potent political fodder in the run-up to Nov. 6, animating GOP voters who have so far lacked the same motivation to head to the polls as their Democratic counterparts. ALSO READ | Christine Blasey Ford describes memory of Kavanaugh laughing while she was underneath him Republican officials and the White House expect Hyde-Smith's race to go to a runoff under the state's jungle election rules that force a showdown between the top two finishers if no candidate wins at least 50 percent of the vote on Election Day. With Republicans defending majorities in the House and Senate next month, officials cast Trump's visit as an attempt to get ahead of a potentially perilous situation. Officials said Trump is seeking to boost Hyde-Smith as close as possible to the 50 percent threshold and lend momentum for a possible runoff. Depending on how Republicans perform on Nov. 6, the eyes of the nation could fall on a Nov. 27 Mississippi runoff in what could become an expensive and high-profile race to determine control of the Senate. "Your vote in this election will decide which party controls the United States Senate," Trump said. A vocal minority of the crowd Tuesday backed the other conservative in the race, McDaniel, a state senator, and booed Hyde-Smith when Trump introduced her. They launched into occasional chants of "We want Chris." Earlier Tuesday, Trump told electrical contractors gathered in Philadelphia that his economic policies would translate into more jobs for their ranks as he highlighted a new trade deal among the U.S., Mexico and Canada. "We're in the midst of a manufacturing renaissance something which nobody thought you'd hear," Trump said in a speech to the National Electrical Contractors Association Convention a day after celebrating the new North American trade deal. In fact, North America already is a manufacturing powerhouse. The United States ranks No. 2 in the world behind China in manufacturing output. Mexico ranks 11th and Canada 13th, according to United Nations numbers pulled together by the Brookings Institution. Trump calls the new trade agreement USMCA, for U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. "Like YMCA or U.S. Marine Corps with an A at the end," he explained. ALSO READ | What Happened: Top takeaways from Brett Kavanaugh, Christine Blasey Ford hearing He said he doesn't want to use the previous name, NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, which he contends cost American jobs and railed against during his 2016 presidential campaign. The new trade deal still must be approved by Congress. "We are finally rebuilding our country, and we are doing it with American aluminum, American steel and with our great electrical contractors," he said. Trump said the strong economy "means more jobs for our great electrical contractors." Before departing the White House, Trump tweeted: By Online Desk Alleging that she was raped, beaten and sex trafficked at an age of 15 by a 'Facebook' friend, a US woman has filed a suit against the social networking site. The Texas woman who identifies herself as Jane Doe in court papers said that the tech-giant was aware that minors were being trafficked via their platform, reports Reuters. She filed a lawsuit in Houston's Harris County District Court on Monday. Jane has also accused the now-shuttered classified advertisement website Backpage.com and its founders of involvement in the whole incident. Facebook refused to comment when approached by media, so did Backpage.com. ALSO READ | UK government formulating guidelines to curb children's social media use The lawsuit claims that the woman had added the man on Facebook who appeared to know many of her real-life friends. The man initiated conversations with her through the social networking site. The lawsuit alleges that after fighting with her mother, the accuser was invited and consoled by her FB friend. He later beat, raped and filmed her. The pictures were posted on Backpage.com Jane claims that Facebook did not take enough measures to verify the user's false identity. The website also failed to warn her of online sex-traffickers. The plaintiff's attorneys, David Harris and Louie Cook of the law firm Sico Hoelscher Harris LLP in Houston, did not comment on the whole issue. Backpage.com was shut down by US authorities earlier this year after a Justice Department investigation finding that the website was used primarily to sell sex. (With inputs from Reuters) Ramananda Sengupta By PTI NEW DELHI: The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the UN's main judicial organ, will hold a public hearing in the case of Kulbhushan Jadhav, an Indian arrested and sentenced to death by a military court in Pakistan for spying, from February 18 to 21 next year at it headquarters in the Hague. According to an ICJ release Wednesday, India will begin the first round of oral arguments on February 18, from 10 am to 1 pm, while Pakistan will do so on February 19. The second round or arguments will begin with India on February 20 from 3 pm to 4:30 pm, and Pakistan at the same time a day later. Both India and Pakistan have submitted written arguments and rejoinders to the court. Expressing confidence that the ICJ would exonerate Jadhav, an Indian official said that "the whole thing is a sordid attempt by the deep state to discredit India, and the truth will prevail at the ICJ." Pakistan claims that Jadhav was arrested from its restive Balochistan province in March 2016 and that he had admitted upon interrogation to being an Indian spy. India, while admitting that Jadhav was a retired commander of the Indian Navy, denied that he was a spy, and claimed that he had been abducted by Pakistani from neighbouring Iran, where he ran a legitimate business. When Jadhav was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court in April 2017, India moved the ICJ, which stayed the execution until it heard the case. in September 2017, India formally accused Pakistan of violating the Vienna Convention by not giving consular access to Jadhav, and demanded that Jadhav's trial should be conducted by a civilian, and not a military court. On Christmas last year, Pakistan granted access to Jadhav's wife, mother, and officials from the Indian high commission an opportunity to meet him, but the entire exercise turned out to be joke since Jadhav, who looked tired and battered, was kept behind a glass partition, and the family was subjected to a very intrusive search by Pakistani security agencies, and hounded by the Pakistani media According to the ICJ, "The hearings will be streamed live and on demand (VOD) in English and French on the Court's website as well as on UN Web TV, the United Nations online television channel." Egypt's Chief of Staff Mohamed Farid met on Wednesday with his Saudi counterpart Fayyad bin Hamed al Ruwayli and his accompanying delegation. The two sides chaired meetings during the closed session of the Egyptian-Saudi military cooperation committee. The group discussed issues of mutual concern, including the latest developments in the region and ways of promoting cooperation between the Egyptian and Saudi armies. Farid and Ruwayli both hailed the level of cooperation and consultation between the two countries in the military and security fields. Search Keywords: Short link: By Associated Press PALU: Aid was trickling into areas devastated by the earthquake and tsunami that struck a central Indonesian island, with one neighbourhood's residents clapping, cheering and high-fiving in their excitement Wednesday at seeing a stopped truck laden with supplies. "I'm so happy," said Heruwanto, 63, who goes by one name. He was clutching a box of instant noodles. "I really haven't eaten for three days." Rescuers carry a body bag containing the remains of an earthquake victim through a neighborhood flattened by Friday's earthquake in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Desperation was visible everywhere Tuesday among victims receiving little aid in areas heavily damaged by a massive earthquake and tsunami, four days after the disaster devastated parts of Indonesia's central Sulawesi island. (Photo | AP) Food, water, fuel and medicine had yet to reach the hardest-hit areas outside Palu, the largest city heavily damaged in Friday's disasters. Many roads were broken and split by the violent shaking or are blocked by debris and communications lines are down in the damage zone. "We feel like we are stepchildren here because all the help is going to Palu," said Mohamad Taufik, 38, from the town of Donggala, where five of his relatives are still missing. "There are many young children here who are hungry and sick, but there is no milk or medicine." ALSO READ | India dispatches relief material to tsunami-hit Indonesia The official death toll is 1,234 and hundreds were injured, but officials acknowledge scores of uncounted bodies could still be buried in collapsed buildings in Sigi and Balaroa. The U.N. humanitarian office said "needs are vast," with people urgently requiring shelter, clean water, food, fuel and emergency medical care. Water is the main issue because most of the supply infrastructure has been damaged, U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters at U.N. headquarters in New York. More than 25 countries offered assistance after Indonesian President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo appealed for international help. Little of that, however, has reached the disaster zone, and increasingly desperate residents grabbed food and fuel from damaged stores and begged for help. Haq said the government is coordinating emergency efforts, and U.N. and relief agencies are on the ground or en route. He said the agencies are working closely with the government to provide technical support. An aircraft carrying 12,000 liters (3,170 gallons) of fuel had arrived, and trucks with food were on the way with police escorts to guard against looters. Many gas stations were inoperable either because of quake damage or from people stealing fuel, national disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said in Jakarta. The frustration of waiting for days without help has angered some survivors. ALSO READ | Google to donate USD 1 million towards Indonesia quake relief "Pay attention to Donggala, Mr. Jokowi. Pay attention to Donggala," yelled one resident in a video broadcast on local TV, referring to the president. "There are still a lot of unattended villages here." The town's administrative head, Kasman Lassa, all but gave residents permission to take food but nothing else from stores. "Everyone is hungry and they want to eat after several days of not eating," Lassa said on local TV. "We have anticipated it by providing food, rice, but it was not enough. There are many people here. So, on this issue, we cannot pressure them to hold much longer." Nearly 62,000 people have been displaced from their homes, Nugroho said. A man carries recovered items from the damaged warehouse from Friday's tsunami at a neighborhood in Donggala, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. A magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck at dusk on Friday, Sept. 28, generating the tsunami said to have been as high as 6 meters (20 feet) in places. (Photo | AP) More aid was being distributed, but "we still need more time to take care of all the problems," Nugroho said. Teams continued searching for survivors under destroyed homes and buildings. Many people were believed trapped under shattered houses in the Palu neighborhood of Balaroa, where the earthquake caused the ground to heave up and down violently. "I and about 50 other people in Balaroa were able to save ourselves by riding on a mound of soil which was getting higher and higher," resident Siti Hajat told MetroTV, adding that her house was destroyed. A handful of disaster personnel arrived in the neighborhood Tuesday morning. A lone backhoe cleared a path into the jumble of twisted buildings. Sa'Adon Lawira, who lost a grandchild, was angry that rescue efforts focused so quickly on places such as the Palu hotel where tourists were staying. ALSO READ | Indonesia arrests dozens for looting in quake-tsunami zone "Why did the search-and-rescue agency and others prioritize the search for victims in hotels?" he said, holding back tears as he spoke. "Neighborhoods like this should take precedence because the bodies of residents are buried, but there are no rescuers who have searched for them." Near the coast, the tsunami shattered buildings, uprooted concrete and thrust boats inland. The deadly wave reportedly reached as high as 6 meters (nearly 20 feet) in places. In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, file photo, a ship rests near houses after it was swept ashore during Friday's tsunami at a neighborhood in Donggala, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. Five days after Indonesias earthquake and tsunami devastated villages on Sulawesi island, residents hoping that help would soon arrive are angry because it hasnt. (Photo | AP) In Palu's Petobo neighborhood, the quake caused loose soil to liquefy, creating quicksand-like mud that caused massive damage. Hundreds of victims are still believed to be buried in the mud there. Liquefaction is a known phenomenon of earthquakes and can be compared to walking on a sandy beach. "If you walk across some wet sand a little back from the water's edge, it is usually firm walking, even though you might leave footprints," said Adam Switzer, an expert at the Earth Observatory of Singapore. "However, if you stand still and wiggle your toes and feet, you will probably sink a little as the sand around your feet becomes soft and unstable. This is similar to what happens during liquefaction." A man walks in front of the ship swept ashore during Friday's tsunami at a neighborhood in Donggala, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. A magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck at dusk on Friday, Sept. 28, generating the tsunami said to have been as high as 6 meters (20 feet) in places. (Photo | AP) Australia announced it will send 50 medical professionals as part of a $3.6 million aid package. The United States and China are among other countries that have offered assistance. The U.N.'s Haq said the Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has asked the U.N. children's agency, UNICEF, to send social workers to the affected area to support children who are alone or became separated from their families. And he said the World Health Organization is warning that a lack of shelter and damaged water sanitation facilities could lead to outbreaks of communicable diseases. Indonesia, a vast archipelago of 260 million people, is frequently struck by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis because of its location on the "Ring of Fire," an arc of volcanoes and fault lines in the Pacific Basin. A powerful quake on the island of Lombok killed 505 people in August. By Associated Press THE HAGUE: The United Nations' highest court on Wednesday ordered the United States to lift sanctions on Iran that affect imports of humanitarian goods and products and services linked to the safety of civil aviation. The ruling by the International Court of Justice is legally binding, but it remains to be seen if the administration of President Donald Trump will comply. Trump moved to restore tough U.S. sanctions in May after withdrawing from Tehran's nuclear accord with world powers. Iran challenged the sanctions in a case filed in July at the International Court of Justice. ALSO READ | Iran's creative options to face down US oil sanctions In a preliminary ruling, the court said that Washington must "remove, by means of its choosing, any impediments arising from" the re-imposition of sanctions to the export to Iran of medicine and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities and spare parts and equipment necessary to ensure the safety of civil aviation. While imposing the so-called "provisional measures," the court's president, Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf, stressed that the ruling does not prejudge the ultimate outcome of the case or establish that the court has jurisdiction. Iranian state television trumpeted the court's decision in a scrolling graphic at the bottom of TV screens: "The victory of Tehran over Washington by the Hague Court." The U.S. is expected to challenge the court's jurisdiction in a future hearing. Judges enter the International Court of Justice, or World Court, in The Hague, Netherlands where they ruled on an Iranian request to order Washington to suspend U.S. sanctions against Tehran. ( Photo | AP) At hearings in August, Tehran sought the suspension of the sanctions while the case challenging their legality is being heard a process that can take years. U.S. lawyers responded that the sanctions are a legal and justified national security measure that cannot be challenged by Tehran at the world court. In its decision, the court said that the U.S. sanctions "have the potential to endanger civil aviation safety" in Iran and that sanctions limiting sales of goods required for humanitarian needs such as food, medicines and medical devices "may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." The court said that the Trump administration must "ensure that licenses and necessary authorizations are granted" and payments not restricted if they are linked to the humanitarian and aviation goods. The court also told both the United States and Iran to "refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute." Iran alleges that the sanctions breach a 1955 bilateral agreement known as the Treaty of Amity that regulates and promotes economic and consular ties between the two countries. The treaty was signed when the U.S. and Iran were still allies following the 1953 revolution fomented by Britain and the U.S. that ultimately cemented the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Diplomatic relations were severed following the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran and takeover of the U.S. Embassy and ensuing hostage crisis. However, the treaty remains in force. ALSO READ | Iran lawsuit against US sanctions opens at UN court Wednesday's ruling could set up another clash between the Trump administration and a Hague-based court. Last month, Trump's national security advisor, John Bolton, denounced the International Criminal Court a separate and unrelated institution based just a few kilometers (miles) away from the International Court of Justice. The ICC prosecutes people accused of war atrocities while the ICJ settles disputes between nations. Bolton said last month that "for all intents and purposes, the ICC is already dead to us." By UNI WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to conduct the talks concerning the country's denuclearisation. In a press briefing, State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said that Mike Pompeo will talk to DPRK's top leader, Kim Jong Un, on Sunday, Chinese News Agency, Xinhua said. US Secretary Pompeo would also travel to Japan, South Korea and China on Oct 6-8 to brief them about his visit. .@SecPompeo will travel to #Tokyo, #Pyongyang, #Seoul, and #Beijing from October 6-8 to reiterate the Administrations continued focus on the final, fully verifiable, denuclearization of the #DPRK, and longstanding commitment to our alliances and partnerships in the region. pic.twitter.com/miEd6ke46A Heather Nauert (@statedeptspox) 3 October 2018 Noting that Pompeo is making his fourth trip to the DPRK in less than a year, Nauert said, "we have quite a ways to go but we look forward to the next steps in this conversation. Refusing to say that talks with the DPRK has been stalled, she said "the secretary and the president said we're not going to set arbitrary deadlines in the interim. We're hopeful." She added that "among the things that the secretary discussed were security assurances," referring to Pompeo's agenda in the DPRK. Nauert also said that "obviously these conversations are going in the right direction." ALSO READ | North Korea's 2017 bomb test set off later earthquakes The DPRK on Saturday demanded the US should take steps to secure Pyongyang's trust before its denuclearisation. "Without any trust in the US there will be no confidence in our national security and under such circumstances there is no way we will unilaterally disarm ourselves first," DPRK's Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho told the UN General Assembly. The key to consolidating peace and security on the Korean Peninsula is to thoroughly implement the joint statement adopted at the historic summit between DPRK top leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump in Singapore in June, said Ri. Speaking before a meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in in New York recently, Trump announced that himself and Kim will hold a second summit "in the not too distant future." It was my honor to chair today's UN Security Council meeting on #DPRK. We reaffirmed that the world cannot accept a nuclear-armed North Korea and emphasized the importance of maintaining and enforcing international sanctions until final, fully-verified denuclearization. #UNGA pic.twitter.com/DaGPx9C1xK Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) 27 September 2018 After a meeting between Pompeo and Ri on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, the State Department announced that Pompeo will travel to the DPRK to discuss the second Trump-Kim summit, Xinhua added. In his speech at the UN General Assembly, Trump thanked Kim "for his courage and for the steps he has taken." " But he added that much work remains to be done and that the sanctions against the DPRK will stay in place "until denuclearisation occurs." By PTI ISLAMABAD: In a U-turn, Pakistan has announced that its close ally Saudi Arabia would not join the USD 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, days after Islamabad said Riyadh will be the third "strategic partner" of China's flagship project, the Belt and Road Initiative. The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of President Xi Jinping aimed at enhancing China's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects. Minister for Planning and Development Khusro Bakhtiar told media on Tuesday that the cash-rich kingdom's proposed investments would fall under a separate bilateral arrangement, Dawn news reported. ALSO READ | Pakistan to pay additional charge for China-Pakistan Economic Corridor "Saudi Arabia is not to become a collateral strategic partner in the CPEC. This impression is not true," he said. A third country can participate in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by taking part in the business and investment ventures arising out of the project, Bakhtiar said. "The framework between China and Pakistan is bilateral and Saudi Arabia is not entering that framework as a third-party investor, rather the base of the CPEC will be broadened and its pace will be expedited," he said. Last month, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said that Saudi Arabia is the third "strategic partner" of the CPEC, soon after Prime Minister Imran Khan returned from his first foreign trip to the kingdom. Interestingly Chaudhry was sitting with Bakhtiar when he issued clarification that Saudi Arabia participation in the CPEC was not as third partner in the project. Bakhtiar further said that there was no decision to bring a third country, like Saudi Arabia, under the framework of the CPEC. ALSO READ | China-Pakistan Economic Corridor being extended to Afghanistan: Report He was responding to questions about the possibility of Saudi Arabia becoming part of the Joint Working Groups or Joint Coordination Committee on the CPEC. Bakhtiar said there could be many offshoots of the CPEC where third countries could be involved in trilateral arrangement for infrastructure development, like China-Pakistan-Japan, China-Pakistan-Saudi Arabia or China-Pakistan-Germany. The minister dodged questions when asked how the cost of Main Railway Line (ML-I) had been reduced by USD 2 billion from USD 8.2 billion to USD 6.2 billion as claimed by Railways Minister Shaikh Rasheed Ahmed. "I have noticed this today that Sheikh Rasheed is making some efforts (to reduce the cost) but not to my knowledge. Nothing has come in front of me to suggest that the cost has come down," he said. ALSO READ | China, Pakistan to jointly produce film on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Bakhtiar said the CPEC portfolio currently stands at about USD 50 billion, of which about USD 6 billion was a government-to-government loan and remaining in Independent Power Producers mode mostly in the energy sector. About USD 29 billion worth of projects were currently in progress. He said the CPEC had far bigger potential than USD 50 billion and would keep expanding with time as new projects come up but the previous government treated and played it like a T-20 match instead of a five-day test series and focused mostly on projects which could be completed during its tenure. Currently, a Saudi delegation is in Pakistan for an initial assessment to capitalise on the Pakistani offer. India has opposed the CPEC project and protested to China as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. By PTI DUBAI: President Donald Trump says Saudi Arabia's king "might not be there for two weeks" without US military support, further increasing his pressure on one of America's closest Mideast allies over rising oil prices. As crude oil prices reach a four-year high, Trump repeatedly has demanded OPEC and Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter, push prices down. However, analysts are warning prices could go up to USD 100 a barrel as the world's production is already stretched and Trump's sanctions on Iran's oil industry take effect in early November. Criticizing America's longstanding military relationships with allies has been a hallmark of Trump's presidential campaign and his time in office. Trump returned to that theme Tuesday night in Southaven, Mississippi, mentioning both Japan and South Korea. However, Trump's comments on Saudi Arabia implied the kingdom's Al Saud monarchy, which oversees the holiest sites in Islam, would collapse without American military support. "We protect Saudi Arabia would you say they're rich?" Trump asked the cheering crowd. "And I love the king, King Salman, but I said, 'King we're protecting you. You might not be there for two weeks without us. You have to pay for your military, you have to pay. '" Trump didn't elaborate on when he made the comments to Saud Arabia's 82-year-old monarch. Trump and King Salman last shared a reported telephone call on Saturday, in which they discussed "efforts to maintain supplies to ensure the stability of the oil market and ensure the growth of the global economy," according to the state-run Saudi Press Agency. There was no immediate reaction Wednesday in Saudi Arabia to Trump's remarks. Riyadh has worked to cultivate warm relations with Trump after having rocky moments with former President Barack Obama. Saudi Arabia welcomed Trump for his first overseas trip as president. Trump's administration, particularly his son-in-law Jared Kushner, has sought a close relationship with King Salman's son Mohammed bin Salman, the country's crown price and next in line to the throne. But oil prices seem to be getting in the way, especially as benchmark Brent crude oil is near USD 85 a barrel a four-year high. Trump in July tweeted without evidence that Saudi Arabia would increase its production "maybe up to 2,000,000 barrels" a day. Saudi Arabia currently produces some 10 million barrels of crude oil a day. Its record is 10.72 million barrels a day. Meanwhile, U.S. gasoline prices are up ahead of November midterm elections in which Trump already faces political headwinds. The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in the U.S. is USD 2.88, up from USD 2.55 a year ago, according to AAA. Trump criticized oil producers in his speech before the U.N General Assembly last week. "OPEC and OPEC nations are, as usual, ripping off the rest of the world, and I don't like it. Nobody should like it," he said. "We defend many of these nations for nothing, and then they take advantage of us by giving us high oil prices. Not good, we want them to stop raising prices. We want them to start lowering prices and they must contribute substantially to military protection from now on. By PTI WASHINGTON: The US is unlikely to revoke the suspension of aid to Pakistan until it sees substantial progress against terrorists and their safe havens, the Trump administration has told Islamabad as top officials of the two countries met here to try to reset their strained ties. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, during their separate meetings with Pakistan's new Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, are understood to have told him that in its assessment, the US does not see any changes on the ground when it comes to taking action against terrorists operating from the Pakistani soil. Given Pakistan's influence over the Taliban, the Trump administration also wants it to bring them to the negotiating table to end the nearly 17-year-long strife. Secretary Pompeo met Qureshi yesterday following up on their September 5 discussions in Islamabad on a range of bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest. Welcoming the Foreign Minister, Pompeo said the US looked forward to working with Pakistan's new government, according to State Department's Spokesperson Heather Nauert. Pompeo discussed the importance of the US and Pakistan working together to advance joint priorities, recognising that the bilateral cooperation was mutually beneficial and a factor for stability in South Asia. Pompeo underscored a common goal to advance peace and security in the broader region, Nauert said in a statement. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, right, meets Pakistani Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi at the State Department in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (Photo | AP) In particular, Pompeo emphasised the important role Pakistan could play in bringing about a negotiated settlement in Afghanistan. The Secretary agreed that there was momentum to advance the Afghan peace process, and that the Afghan Taliban should seize the opportunity for dialogue, the statement said. The White House normally does not issue a readout of the meeting that its National Security Advisor has with foreign leaders. Qureshi and Pompeo did appear for a hand-shake photo op before the meeting. According to informed sources familiar with the development, the US side is upset because of Qureshi's faux pas about a handshake he had with President Donald Trump during a luncheon in New York, which he described to the media as a meeting. The situation in war-torn Afghanistan dominated the separate meetings Qureshi held with Bolton and Pompeo. Qureshi met Bolton for 40 minutes at the White House before heading to the State Department for another meeting with Pompeo. The second meeting was also attended by Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and Ambassador Ali Jehangir Siddiqui. In a readout, the Embassy of Pakistan here said Qureshi had a wide range of discussions with both Pompeo and Bolton which included among others bilateral and regional issues including Pakistan's strained relations with India. Qureshi said that close engagement between Pakistan and the US had always been mutually beneficial and a factor for stability in South Asia. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, right, meets Pakistani Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi at the State Department in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (Photo | AP) He stressed that, going forward, a broad-based and structured framework for dialogue would best serve the two countries' shared interests, the statement said. Noting that Pakistan and the US share a common desire for peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region at large, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's support for a political settlement in Afghanistan, saying use of force had failed to deliver results. Qureshi told Pompeo that "peace in South Asia, which was a common goal for both the US and Pakistan, would remain elusive until all disputes, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir, are resolved". Pompeo, according to the embassy statement, said the US looked forward to working with the new government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan in implementing its reform agenda. "In the context of achieving stability in South Asia, Qureshi briefed his US interlocutor about India's aggressive posturing in the region. "Qureshi underscored that, on its part, Pakistan remained committed to engaging India in a comprehensive peace dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute," the statement added. Pompeo, who was in Islamabad on September 5 on his first visit to Pakistan as the top American diplomat, had met Prime Minister Imran Khan and pressed him to take "sustained and decisive measures" against terrorists threatening the regional peace and stability. The ties between the two countries strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists. Last month, the Trump administration cancelled USD 300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups active on its soil. By AFP PRAGUE: Members of the Czech Republic's Roma minority on Wednesday flooded social media with photos showing them at work, after President Milos Zeman suggested they were work-shy. "It's no longer amusing to hear people say we don't work. So we'll flood Facebook with our work photos," Stefan Pongo, the mastermind of the campaign, had posted on his Facebook page on Tuesday. Only hours later he wrote that he had already received 1,000 photos from Roma holding down various jobs in the Czech Republic but also in Britain, Germany and Ireland. While visiting the eastern town of Kojetin last week, Zeman said most of the unemployed in the area were Roma, before expressing regret that the totalitarian era was over. "Under communism, the Roma were forced to work. They mainly worked as ditch diggers," said Zeman, who is known for his controversial statements. The Roma at work (Photo | Twitter) "Those who refused were labelled as people who are put off by work and were sent to prison," he told reporters and local residents. Pongo's social media initiative was backed by Romea, a Czech Roma rights NGO, which on Wednesday published a collage of some of the photos on www.romea.cz, its website. "European Roma flood Facebook with hundreds of photos of themselves at work, tell Czech President to stop insulting them," Romea said on its site. Zeman was also criticised by the European Roma Rights Centre (ERRC), which on Monday sent him an open letter condemning his "racist scorn for Romani citizens of the Czech Republic." Between 250,000 and 300,000 Roma live in this EU member state of 10.6 million people. In a report this year, Amnesty International criticised the Czech authorities for discrimination against Roma regarding access to housing allowances and education. By AFP WASHINGTON: Pakistan pledged Wednesday to support negotiations with the Taliban to end Afghanistan's 17-year war as it asked the United States to restore military aid and stop blaming Islamabad for the extremists' strengths. Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi visited Washington to explain the Afghanistan strategy of new Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has long advocated talks over military action with the Taliban and other Islamist insurgents. A month after Washington cut $300 million in military aid, Qureshi said he found Secretary of State Mike Pompeo "ready to listen" to Pakistan and said he was returning to Islamabad "slightly more hopeful" than before. Pakistan had been the main supporter of the Taliban regime which imposed an austere brand of Islam on much of Afghanistan until a US military campaign launched after the September 11, 2001 attacks. The United States has pressed for years for Pakistan to crack down on militant groups involved in Afghanistan as well as virulently anti-Indian groups that operate virtually openly. It says the insurgents have safe havens in Pakistan's border areas and links to its shadowy military establishment, accusations which Islamabad has repeatedly denied. Trump has accused Pakistan, where US commandos killed Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, of duplicity. Qureshi said Pakistan would act "in good faith" to jumpstart diplomacy with the Taliban, whose representatives held a breakthrough meeting in July in Qatar with US representatives in a tentative bid to try to end the longest-running US war. "Pakistan is willing and Pakistan will use all its influence to do that. We feel that Afghanistan's stability and peace are linked to ours," Qureshi said at the US Institute of Peace a day after meeting Pompeo. But he added: "Contrary to the largely held view here, our influence on the Taliban is diminished." He said he believed that the Taliban's shift to negotiations, as well as an unprecedented if temporary ceasefire, was based on the militants' own calculations. "Even the Taliban recognize that things have changed in Afghanistan. They can at best maintain a stalemate but those days are gone when they will just go in and take over Kabul." Defending Pakistan role Qureshi said Pakistan "cannot and should not be held responsible for the failures in Afghanistan" as he pointed to disunity in the Kabul government as well as corruption. "I have seen or read a lot of criticism and think it's unfair not to recognize the contributions Pakistan has made to the successes that you've had in Afghanistan -- and you've had successes despite the challenges," he said. Calling for renewed cooperation with the United States, Qureshi said: "Cutting off training, not giving precision equipment that could have been used against terrorism -- I don't know to what extent that will help." 'Momentum' for negotiations Trump had called for years for a withdrawal from Afghanistan, questioning what more can be achieved from a war that has claimed about 2,400 US lives, but the real estate mogul turned politician decided to stay the course after advice from security officials. Pompeo, who met Khan in Islamabad last month, told Qureshi that Pakistan has an "important role" to play in Afghanistan negotiations, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said. Pompeo "agreed that there was momentum to advance the Afghan peace process, and that the Afghan Taliban should seize the opportunity for dialogue," Nauert said. The State Department notably did not say whether Pompeo addressed Pakistan's position on extremism. In August, Pompeo congratulated Khan in a telephone call when he took office as prime minister. The State Department said he asked Islamabad to "take decisive action against all terrorists operating in Pakistan." Pakistan insisted that the issue never came up. President Bashar Assad told a little-known Kuwaiti newspaper that Syria has reached a major understanding with Arab states after years of hostility over the countrys civil war. The interview in the Al-Shahed newspaper, published Wednesday, was Assads first with a Gulf newspaper since the war began in 2011. Assad doesnt name the Arab countries but says Arab and Western delegations have begun visiting Syria to prepare for the reopening of diplomatic and other missions. Soon the civil war will be over, Assad told the papers publisher, allowing Syria to resume its pivotal role in the region. Syrias membership in the 22-member Arab League was suspended in the early days of the war and Arab countries later imposed economic sanctions after they failed to mediate an end to the war. The interview comes on the heels of a surprisingly warm meeting between the Syrian foreign minister and his Bahraini counterpart on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday. The meeting turned heads because it featured hugs between the two ministers. The encounter raised questions about whether the Gulf countries, most of them sworn enemies of Assads ally Iran, are reconsidering their relations with Damascus as the war winds down. Assad, embattled for years, is emerging largely victorious. Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the Bahraini foreign minister, later told Saudi-run Al-Arabiya TV that it was not the first meeting with my brother the Syrian minister. But he said it was an unplanned meeting, while other planned ones werent caught on camera. Al Khalifa said the meeting came at a time of serious Arab efforts to reclaim a role in resolving the Syrian crisis. This meeting comes at this period that is witnessing positive transformations toward having an effective Arab role in the Syrian issue, Al Khalifa said in the Sunday interview with Al-Arabiya. Syria is an Arab country. Its people are Arabs and what happens there concerns us before any other nation. It is not correct that regional and international countries are looking into the Syrian issue and not us. Al Khalifa seemed to recognize that the Syrian government is here to stay. The Syrian government is the Syrian government, he said. We work with states even if we disagree with them and not with those who bring down those states. Assad praises Kuwaits position regarding Syria in the interview with Al-Shahed, calling its leader a problem solver. *This story was edited by Ahram Online. Search Keywords: Short link: Champaign, IL (61820) Today Cloudy with occasional showers overnight. Low 34F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Cloudy with occasional showers overnight. Low 34F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 50%. Not having any deal on Brexit would be better than a bad deal, French minister for European affairs Nathalie Loiseau said on Wednesday, adding she still hoped a deal could be reached with Britain regarding its exit from the European Union. "No deal would be better than a bad deal," Loiseau told Radio Classique station. "A good deal is still possible, but time is running out," she said. Loiseau's comments came with British Prime Minister Theresa May due to make a keynote speech to her Conservative Party on Wednesday, in which she is expected to say that Britain's impending divorce from the EU is an opportunity that opens up a future full of promise. Search Keywords: Short link: Reporter Mary Schenk is a reporter covering police, courts and breaking news at The News-Gazette. Her email is mschenk@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@schenk). Reporter Tim Mitchell is a reporter at The News-Gazette. His email is tmitchel@news-gazette.com, and you can follow him on Twitter (@mitchell6). Columnist Tom Kacich is a columnist and the author of Tom's Mailbag at The News-Gazette. His column appears Sundays. His email is tkacich@news-gazette.com, and you can follow him on Twitter (@tkacich). Reporter/Columnist Julie Wurth is a reporter covering the University of Illinois at The News-Gazette. Her email is jwurth@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@jawurth). The daily production of Egypts mammoth offshore Zohr gas field has exceeded 2 billion cubic feet per day, an offical at the petroleum ministry told Al-Ahram Arabic news website. Both Egypt and the Italian energy company Eni, which discovered the field in 2015, previously estimated that Zohrs gas output would reach 2 billion cubic feet per day by September. The Zohr field, located in the Mediterranean as part of the Shorouk concession in the Mediterranean, covers an area of 3,765 square kilometres, is the largest ever natural gas find in the Mediterranean. The total gas in place in the field is estimated to be around 850 billion cubic metres. If true, Zohr will almost double Egypt's gas reserves. Egypt announced earlier in the week it has stopped importing liquefied gas. Minister of Petroleum Tarek El-Molla said that the last shipment of imported liquefied gas arrived in Egypt in September. Egypt is steadily achieving self-sufficiency of gas due to Zohr gas field, which has increased production by six times since January, Molla said in a statement. Search Keywords: Short link: Install the Newser News app in two easy steps: 1. Tap in your navigation bar. 2. Tap to Add to Home Screen. (Newser) Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is on course to rack up more visits to North Korea than Dennis Rodman. The State Department announced Tuesday that Pompeo will meet with Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang on Sunday during an Asia trip that will also include stops in South Korea, China, and Japan, Politico reports. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said Tuesday that Pompeo's fourth trip to the country in under a year shows "forward progress and momentum," the Guardian reports. "Of course, we have quite a ways to go but we look forward to the next steps in this conversation," she said. Pompeo is expected to discuss denuclearization and terms for a second summit between Kim and President Trump, who told a recent rally that he "fell in love" with the North Korean leader. (Read more Mike Pompeo stories.) Culture is essential to forging cooperative and collaborative relations between peoples, the history of the Afro-Asia Writers Association being a case in point I feel sad whenever I visit the headquarters of the Afro-Asian Peoples Solidarity Organisation in Manial on the island of Rhoda in Cairo. Born over 60 years ago, this peoples organisation is one of the oldest international NGOs in the world. Over the course of its more than six decades of existence, it experienced the massive political, social and economic changes in both continents, but it remained a bedrock for the defence of the independence of Third World peoples and their liberation from colonialist rule. The organisation was an outspoken supporter of all national liberation movements and decried all forms of oppression and racial discrimination. It was an ardent opponent of the apartheid system in South Africa and a staunch champion of the Palestinian people and their rightful cause. Do we not still need this organisation in this phase of our history? Are we merely to consign it to the past now that we, along with other African and Asian nations, have won our independence? Surely our current circumstances plus our desire to re-establish contact with African and Asian nations, which Egypt once led in international forums, should make us realise that we continue to need that solidarity organisation which remains widely respected on both continents. Why has our government lost interest in it? Why doesnt this organisation receive the funding it used to get in the 1950s and 1960s? The Afro-Asian Peoples Solidarity Organisation (AAPSO), which was established in January 1958, was one of the fruits of the international conference of non-aligned nations that was held in Cairo that year. Today, it oversees a large number of national committees in more than 90 African and Asian countries and it has associate member committees in Europe and Latin America. It has been headed, in turn, by Abdel-Rahman Al-Sharkawi, Mourad Ghaleb, Ahmed Hamroush and Helmi Al-Hadidi, its current director. It was AAPSO that fostered the establishment of the Afro-Asian Writers Association, the first chairman of which was Youssef Al-Sibai. I can personally testify to how deeply African and Asian countries are concerned for AAPSO and its writers association, the last chairman of which was the great Egyptian intellectual Lutfi Al-Khouli. After Al-Khouli passed away in 1999, the government lost interest in the federation, in the organisation from which it stemmed and, indeed, in Africa and Asia. The writers association fell into neglect and ceased all activity. About a decade later, a delegation from the Delhi-based Progressive Writers Association, led by Ali Javed, arrived in Cairo to inquire about the fate of the Afro-Asian Writers Association. They were not pleased with what they found. Javed wrote to AAPSO saying that if Egypt was not interested in the Afro-Asia Writers Association, which was headquartered in Cairo, then India was ready to revive it and move its headquarters to New Delhi. I was present at that meeting with the Indian delegation, in which Helmi Al-Hadidi, head of AAPSO, rejected Javeds request to move the Afro-Asia Writers Association to New Delhi and, instead, appealed to the visiting delegation to work with us to revive that historic association, which counted many famous African and Asian writers among its members and which once had such great influence among cultural and political spheres on both continents. AAPSO then began to organise a general conference, to be held in Cairo, of African and Asian writers associations in order to revive the Afro-Asia Writers Association and elect a new leadership. I was elected to chair the committee that was formed to prepare for that conference. We had a year to prepare amidst the upheavals ushered in by the 25 January 2011 Revolution. The conference was held in December 2012 and was attended by representatives from more than 40 African and Asian nations. We had wanted the conference to be held under the sponsorship of the Egyptian president as an affirmation of the bond of brotherhood between the participants and as a sign that Egypt had not abandoned the association or its connections with African and Asian peoples. However, the office of the presidency, at the time, had ended up in the hands of the Muslim Brotherhood, which rejected our request. Still, in spite of all those circumstances, the conference was a success and I had the honour to be elected secretary-general of the Afro-Asia Writers Association which entered a new phase in its history after a 10-year slumber. We had drawn up a new charter for the association to bring it up to date with the developments that occurred since it ceased activities a decade earlier and the charter was approved in the general conference. Since its revival, the Afro-Asia Writers Association has held conferences in Vietnam, Jordan, Pakistan, Russia and Egypt. It is currently preparing for a forthcoming conference in Morocco in November. It has also resumed publication of Lotus upon the instance of member countries that gave us back issues that they had preserved all these years. Lotus is a trilingual magazine, in Arabic, English and French. The reason I relate the foregoing, which I personally experienced, is to underscore how much African and Asian countries care for AAPSO and its Afro-Asia Writers Association, the activities of which encouraged Al-Hadidi to use it as a model to launch another important organisation: the Afro-Asia Journalists Association. Four decades in which Egypt turned its back on Africa, Asia and the Third World are over. Egypt, today, once again aspires to establish closer contact with the many African and Asian countries with which we shared such strong friendships and cooperative relations. Such relations added a force and impetus to our presence in the international domain, which helped make Egypt an authentic leader of all Third World countries. We should bear in mind that this organisation, with its venerable history and record of achievements, is still cherished in the hearts of African and Asian nations which joined together to help foster its revival during the past six years. Is there a better gateway than this organisation to rebuild contacts with these nations? One of the main advantages of AAPSO is that it is an NGO. Real contacts between nations do not take place solely at the governmental level. People-to-people contacts support and strengthen the bond. There is no need to say more. Who will heed this appeal? * A version of this article appears in print in the 4 October, 2018 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: Connecting Africa and Asia Search Keywords: Short link: (Newser) Either he didn't know he was facing bulletproof glass, or he didn't quite know what happens when you throw something at bulletproof glass. Either way, a guy who broke into a Maryland takeout restaurant on Sept. 20 was likely nursing a nasty head bump the next day. NBC New York reports on the attempted burglary in Suitland, in which the would-be burglar did manage the first step of getting into the eatery by smashing the front window and stepping into the venue's waiting area. His next task: to break the window leading to the locked-down back room. story continues below As surveillance footage shows, that's when things hit a snag. The suspect threw what appears to be a brick (WJLA says it may have been a large rock) two times at the window, which was made of bulletproof material. On the third try, as seen in the video, the brick once more bounces off the window, but this time it smacks the "Bad Luck Bandit" (CBS Philly's name for him) right in the head. He falls to his hands and knees in what was surely a good amount of pain, and NBC notes he stretched out on the ground for a few minutes before getting up and leaving. Cops are still looking for him. (Read more dumb criminals stories.) (Newser) It's a sad ending to a weeklong search for an Ohio woman who vanished while hiking on the North Carolina side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Knoxville News Sentinel reports the body of 53-year-old Mitzie Sue Clements was found Tuesday afternoon, less than a mile south of the Appalachian Trail and a couple of miles west from where people park to visit Clingmans Dome, per a park release. The park noted in a Facebook post last week that Clements disappeared on Sept. 25 on the Forney Ridge Trail after she became separated from her daughter, who said she'd gotten ahead of her mother on the trail late that afternoon and that Clements never caught up. story continues below The search for Clements was an intense one in inclement weather, with more than 100 people from dozens of agencies joining in, as well as canine helpers, helicopters, and search-and-rescue drones. A new cellphone tower was even put up to help rescuers combat bad service and stay in communication as they searched. Scientists toiled over digital composites of the landscape, and medical professionals consulted with officials on how Clements might be reacting as she struggled to survive. Bad weather, rough terrain, and thick vegetation also slowed efforts down, per WATE. "Our hearts are with the family and friends of Ms. Clements," the park tweeted Tuesday evening, thanking everyone who'd helped with the search. A GoFundMe set up by another of Clements' daughters has raised more than $5,000 that will now go toward funeral costs rather than the travel expenses her family initially sought help with. (Read more missing person stories.) (Newser) A Syrian man who found himself stuck in an airport for months after overstaying his Malaysian visa and subsequently refusing to return to his war-torn home country has been arrested. Per CBC, Hassan Al Kontar spent the last seven months living in the Kuala Lumpur airport and documenting on Twitter his life in flux as he attempted to find a country willing to issue him a visa as a refugee. On Monday, Malaysian authorities accused the 36-year-old of being in a "forbidden zone" without a boarding pass and arrested him, per the New Straits Times. story continues below At a press conference, Malaysia's Immigration Department director-general Datuk Seri Mustafar Ali reportedly said that Al Kontar said he's unwilling to return to Syria because he fears he'll be forced to become a soldier after years spent working abroad as an insurance marketing manager. Mustafar said his agency doesn't know Al Kontar's "real reason" but cited his country's need for closure in the case. Mustafar also said Al Kontar had "shamed" Malaysia on social media. Throughout his ordeal, a human rights group out of British Columbia had been working to secure a Canadian visa for Al Kontar by putting public pressure on Canada's minister of immigration, refugees and citizenship. Malaysian officials did not say at the time of his arrest whether Al Kontar would be deported. (Read more Syria stories.) (Newser) Brandy and Joseph Allen's two teen children weren't home with them Saturday night: The couple had gone fishing to celebrate a wedding anniversary, and the 14- and 18-year-olds stayed elsewhere. It may have saved their lives. The Missouri couple was found shot dead Sunday, in what police believe was a robbery gone wrong. Sheriff Scott Rice tells KY3 that police believe the incident occurred around 4am Sunday. Ozarks First reports it's thought the Allens heard a noise outside, went to check on it, and found two would-be robbers attempting to steal their cars. Per a news release cited by the Springfield News-Leader, police say the couple got into a "gun battle" with the suspects. story continues below The Allens' bodies were found outside their Tunas home by Brandy Allen's father, who was checking on his cattle in the area. Rice says the suspects tried to steal the couple's restored El Camino but "got high centered in the driveway and it was left." A pick-up truck was taken and was found Monday morning about 15 miles away stuck in mud. Son Tanner Allen shared his grief and anger with Ozarks First: "I want them dead to be honest. ... They've left a 14-year-old and me with no parents for the rest of our lives, I hope that gets to them." Lake News Online reports the search for the suspects has moved into neighboring Camden County. A GoFundMe campaign set up to cover funeral expenses and support the children has raised $17,000 as of this writing. (Cops are trying to find this alleged murderer using a podcast.) (Newser) In the Hollywood version, the criminal makes a daring prison jailbreak via helicopter and spends the rest of his life drinking wine on an island. In the real-life version, he ends up back behind bars. Such is apparently the fate of French robber Redoine Faid, who had been branded the country's most wanted fugitive and who police sources tell the BBC has been captured after three months on the lam. He was reportedly found early Wednesday in the Oise region north of Paris; the prison he broke out of was located 30 miles southeast of the capital. He was reportedly in the company of his brother and two other men. story continues below The AFP reports that on July 1, men pretending to be flight school students made their instructor land a helicopter in the prison courtyard, emerged with balaclavas, used a grinding machine to open the door to the prison's visiting room, and spirited Faid, 46, away. It was the second bold escape Faid has made: In 2013 he got out of a different prison using explosives concealed in a tissue box and was on the run for six weeks. He is serving a 25-year sentence tied to the 2010 death of a policewoman during a bungled robbery. As for what the country plans to do with him, Justice Minister Nicole Belloubet had this to say: "We're going to put him in a high-security facility where he will be watched extremely closely." (This fugitive managed to elude thousands of cops for weeks.) (Newser) Vladimir Putin has previously addressed the poisoning of ex-Russian spy Sergei Skripal, but never quite like this. When asked on Wednesday about sanctions imposed on Russia in the wake of the attack, Putin dismissed the ex-spy as "just a scumbag" who turned on his country, reports the AP. "I see that some of your colleagues are pushing the theory that Mr. Skripal was almost some kind of human rights activist," Putin said while at a Moscow energy forum, per Reuters. "He was simply a spy. A traitor to the motherland. There is such a concepta traitor to the motherland. He was one of those." story continues below The comments come a day after a report from the Guardian suggesting Skripal didn't initially believe his former country could have turned on him. That tidbit comes via a book by BBC journalist Mark Urban out this week. In The Skripal Files, Urban writes that after waking from a five-week coma, Skripal was at first reluctant to believe the Russian government tried to kill him. The Guardian has much more on Urban's book, which incorporates a series of meetings he had with Skripal in the summer of 2017, well before Skripal was poisoned with novichok. Urban found Skripal parroted "the Kremlin line in many matters," including those related to Crimea and the Ukraine, but reportedly expressed a reluctance to be quoted, saying, "we are afraid of Putin." (An investigative group says it has unmasked the identity of one of the suspects in Skripal's poisoning.) (Newser) A study funded by NASA in a bid to determine what effects a journey into deep space might have on the health of astronauts has uncovered some startling possibilities for those brave souls who might one day venture to Mars. Per CNN, the findings out of Georgetown University Medical Center suggest that the sort of radiation to which such travelers would be exposed has the potential to cause major intestinal issues, including cancer. It's called galactic cosmic radiation, or GCR, and consists of so-called heavy ions that we're protected from by the magnetosphere that surrounds Earth. Deep in space, as well as on Mars, there is no such protection and scientists say there is no way yet known to prevent exposure with shielding or medications. story continues below Per Inverse, the study bombarded mice with doses of ionizing radiation that mimicked what's found in deep space. Researchers found that long exposure permanently altered the gastrointestinal tracts of the mice in a way that caused them to lose their ability to absorb nutrients. What's more, the mice also developed cancerous growths in their intestines, leading researchers to further worry about the effects of space radiation after previous findings suggested it poses a danger to the brain. We have documented the effects of deep space radiation on some vital organs, but we believe that similar damage responses may occur in many organs, wrote senior investigator Kamal Datta. It is important to understand these effects in advance so we can do everything we can to protect our future space travelers. (Read more NASA stories.) (Newser) In response to a UN court order that the US lift sanctions on Iran, the Trump administration said Wednesday it was terminating a decades-old treaty affirming friendly relations between the two countries. The move is a largely symbolic gesture that highlights deteriorating relations between Washington and Tehran, the AP reports. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said withdrawing from the 1955 Treaty of Amity was long overdue and followed Iran "groundlessly" bringing a complaint with the International Court of Justice challenging US sanctions on the basis that they were a violation of the pact. Meanwhile, national security adviser John Bolton said the administration also was pulling out of an amendment to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations that Iran or others, notably the Palestinians, could use to sue the US at The Hague-based tribunal. Bolton told reporters at the White House that the provision violates US sovereignty. story continues below "The United States will not sit idly by as baseless politicized claims are brought against us," Bolton said. He cited a case brought to the court by the "so-called state of Palestine" challenging the move of the US Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem as the main reason for withdrawing. Bolton, who last month unleashed a torrent of criticism against the International Criminal Court, noted that previous Republican administrations had pulled out of various international agreements and bodies over "politicized cases." He said the administration would review all accords that might subject the US to prosecution by international courts or panels. Earlier, Pompeo denounced the Iranian case before the UN court as "meritless" and said the Treaty of Amity was meaningless and absurd. "The Iranians have been ignoring it for an awfully long time, we ought to have pulled out of it decades ago," he told reporters at the State Department. Click for more on the little-known treaty and the UN ruling. (Read more Iran stories.) (Newser) The Chicago PD is in search of a suspect who they say fatally shot a man Sunday before gunning down another victim the next day in the same neighborhood. Per ABC News, officials are on high alert in the city's Rogers Park area, where 73-year-old Douglass Watts was shot in the head by a masked man Sunday while walking his dogs. Monday night, authorities say Eliyahu Moscowitz was also fatally shot in the head just blocks away. Per WLS-TV, investigators have linked the two crimes using ballistics evidence. story continues below "The shell casings found at both crime scenes ... were found to be a match," Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson told reporters. "This means both shootings came from the same gun and likely the same suspect." Striking even more fear in the stunned community, Johnson revealed that police believe the two victims had zero connection and that they were likely targeted at random. Neither victim had his belongings stolen. As police released surveillance footage of a masked suspect they described as a male with a thin build, Mayor Rahm Emanuel urged Chicagoans to go about their daily lives, but in "a smart and vigilant way." (Read more shooting stories.) What might be the purpose of the proposed Middle East Strategic Alliance bringing together Egypt, the US, Jordan and the Gulf states News about a proposed new alliance called the Middle East Strategic Alliance (MESA) has surfaced from the White House and particularly Tim Lenderking, US deputy assistant secretary of state for Arabian Gulf affairs. Lenderking has conducted shuttle visits to a number of countries in the Middle East in preparation for the announcement of the new alliance in January 2019. The alliance should include Egypt, the US, Jordan and Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain and possibly Qatar, and it may be an Arab version of NATO designed to curb the growing influence of Iran in the region, according to Lenderking. Curbing Iranian influence remains high on the agendas of all the aforementioned countries with the exception of Qatar that at the moment is on the best of terms with the Iranians. The idea of including Qatar in the alliance, even with a US military base situated in the country, remains objectionable to key potential members, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain, all of which have severed diplomatic ties with Qatar and boycotted any form of cooperation with the Qatari regime. Meanwhile, the Saudi leadership has long been reluctant to act on Egypts calls for a regional military alliance that would include the Arab countries as a form of self-sustaining regional pact that would guarantee the security of the region without relying on external alliances. Egypts first call followed the end of the Iraqi occupation of Kuwait and the 1991 Gulf War and was labelled the Damascus Declaration. It was overlooked as a result of political conflicts and possibly Western pressure. In 2014, a call for a new Arab alliance in the face of continued terrorism threats and Iranian ambitions by Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi was also met less than enthusiastically by the Saudis, who agreed in principal but then launched their own version of an alliance called the Islamic Alliance and invited countries such as Pakistan and Egypt to join it. Of the countries mentioned in the context of the new alliance, Egypt has a unique political position that must be considered above all other agendas. Egypt, Jordan and Turkey are the only countries in the Middle East region to have diplomatic relations with Israel. These are not shared by other countries in the region, which do not officially recognise the Israeli state. How this will affect the Arab Gulf states stance remains unclear. Furthermore, in 1961 Egypt with India and the former Yugoslavia formed the Non-Aligned Movement that aimed to establish an organisation of states that did not seek to align themselves with either the United States or the former Soviet Union. That stance has remained the backbone of Egyptian foreign policy even with the countrys close military and political ties with the former Soviet Union through the 1950s and 1960s and then with the United States from 1977 until today. Throughout these decades Egypt has not intervened militarily in any conflict at the request of either the former Soviet Union or the United States. The potential Egyptian membership of the MESA should not contradict this political stance despite the declining importance of the Non-Aligned Movement after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. Moreover, Egypt enjoys excellent diplomatic, commercial and military relations with all the worlds leading powers, including the US, Russia and China. Egypt possesses arms from all three countries, and ongoing weapons deals are being conducted with them. Moreover, Egypts relations with Russia are witnessing their warmest period since the fall of the Soviet Union, and the Egyptian leadership is aware that it cannot step into a new regional alliance without having a clear vision of how it could affect other international relations and obligations. Furthermore, there are many unanswered questions about the nature of this new alliance in relation to the conflicts in the region. The current Egyptian-Turkish showdown and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans unequivocal support for terrorist groups such as the Muslim Brotherhood and the likes of the Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda groups in the region is a hostile stance Egypt is still facing. There have been no clear answers on what the stance of the said alliance could be should a military conflict with the Turkish regime take place, especially given its expansionist ambitions in the region. If the MESA was invoked to curb aggression, would it favour the Turkish regime or Egypt or the countries of the Arab Gulf? Or would the pact be only directed towards Iran and have no other purpose? Egypt has rejected calls for direct military involvement in both Syria and Yemen. In the case of the latter conflict, the Egyptian participation has meant the deployment of a handful of naval vessels and warplanes as part of efforts to restore the legitimate government of Yemeni President Abd Rabbuh Mansour Hadi, ousted by Iranian-supported Al-Houthi rebels. It has also aimed to obstruct any Iranian attempts to control the Bab Al-Mandeb Strait. Unlike the Saudi leadership, which said it could settle the civil war in Yemen in a few weeks of its involvement, the Egyptian leadership has had a more realistic view and rejected calls for Egyptian ground troops becoming involved in the conflict, with later developments showing that this decision was the correct one. The war that was projected to take a few weeks, according to Saudi military estimates, has been ongoing since March 2015, and the Iranian involvement has resulted in the launching of missiles towards southern regions of Saudi Arabia. Egypt has also refused pressure to get directly involved in the ongoing Syrian civil war with ground troops or any other form of military intervention. These considerations raise the question of whether the US and Saudi Arabia now want to see Egypt become more militarily involved in the region. Egypt has stressed many times that it will never intervene in any conflict unless the sovereignty of its allies and particularly of the Gulf states is under threat. Should the Iranian regime attempt to launch an offensive against any of these states, it will see the mobilisation of Egyptian troops for defensive purposes. But aside from this, Egypt is not keen on becoming involved in attacks on any other state, raising the question once again of whether the proposed MESA is simply a defensive pact, whether it is an alliance against Iran, or if there is more to it than meets the eye. In the light of the above, Egypt must weigh the pros and cons of the proposed new alliance against the background of its own political, military and economic situation, regardless of how tempting joining it may seem. * The writer is a political analyst and author of Egypts Arab Spring and the Winding Road to Democracy. * A version of this article appears in print in the 4 October, 2018 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: Unanswered questions on the MESA Search Keywords: Short link: Parents will now have to pay heavy fines if their children fail to attend classes regularly, it is learnt. The Ministry of Education has issued a latest decree, according to which the parent will be fined BD100 if the student consistently fails to attend classes over a period of 10 days. It is the duty of the parents to ensure that their kids are attending classes on a regular basis, the ministry said while issuing the decree. The move follows many students flouting minimum attendance norms to be maintained at classes in the absence of strict regulations. The parents of students not maintaining the mandatory minimum attendance during an academic session will be fined BD100. The parents will also have to explain the reason behind the leaves to the ministry. The move intends at discouraging students from taking unnecessary leaves, the ministry said in its statement. Speaking to Tribune, Anand Nair, Vice-Principal of Indian School Bahrain said the school authorities are in the process of implementing the directive as all schools in the Kingdom are bound to follow it. Molly Mammen , Asian School Bahrain Principal said most schools in the Kingdom strictly demand a minimum of 75 per cent attendance from the part of students for being allowed to sit for examinations. Many students have a tendency to bunk classes on Saturdays. Definitely, its a welcome move from the part of ministry to ensure that all students are regularly attending their classes. Bahrain yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the US to strengthen cooperation in Combating Transnational Crimes. Bahrains Ambassador to US Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid Al Khalifa, and the Police Commissioner of New York City, James ONeill signed a memorandum of understanding as part of the joint efforts of the two countries to strengthen cooperation in combating transnational crimes. Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah El Sisi, opened the first Arab Forum for Schools for Special Needs and Integration, held here with the participation of students with special needs from a number of Arab countries. Bahrains delegation to the forum, led by Education Minister Dr Majid Al Nuaimi, included a number of officials and students with special needs. President Sisi, in his speech, asserted his countrys interest in integrating students with special needs in schools and development projects. The president also toured the exhibition held on the sidelines of the forum. A Bahraini start-up that has reportedly managed to gain customers in all 196 countries of the world was one of the success stories highlighted at a Bahrain Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI) event held yesterday. Rapidly growing Bahriani start-up Skiplino that has managed to serve customers in every corner of the world was one of the successful start-ups featured in the first ever BCCI Technology Summit event held at Capital Club premises in Manama yesterday. Skiplino is a multilingual queue management system which is cloud based. It helps users to queue in advance or avoid queues altogether. The event which was held coinciding with the Bahrain Tech Week, featured talks by business leaders including BCCI board members, Government officials, successful start-up owners and others. Speaking to Tribune on the sidelines of the event, founder of Skiplino Zaman Ah Zaman, said that the start-ups tremendous growth is partly down to their strong presence online. Will Arab countries have any say on the Middle East regional alliance Trump is imagining, and which will include Israel, regardless of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict In his remarks before the UN General Assembly Tuesday, 25 September, US President Donald Trump talked about a regional strategic alliance for the member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Jordan and Egypt to counter the Islamic State group and other terrorist organisations in the Middle East. Two days later, the foreign ministers of these countries met with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the meeting dealing with the threats and challenges facing Middle Eastern countries, with special emphasis on defeating terrorism and containing Iran. President Trump singled out Iran in his General Assembly remarks this year and vowed to challenge forcefully the brutal dictatorship that rules Iran. He justified his decision to withdraw from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) the Iran nuclear deal that had been signed in July 2015 by the P5+1 (the five Permanent Members of the UN Security Council plus Germany) to curtail and control the Iranian nuclear programme by stressing that the agreement allowed Iran to gain in wealth that was used to destabilise American allies in the Middle East. However, the concept of a regional alliance in the Middle East that would bring together what various US administrations have called moderate Arab countries in a regional grouping with Israel is not new. The idea of bringing together these countries (namely, the Gulf countries and the two Arab countries that have signed peace treaties with Israel, Egypt and Jordan) was adopted by the administration of former US president Barack Obama. The underlying premise is to integrate Israel into the Middle East system. Some experts and Middle Eastern watchers would call it an attempt to resuscitate the concept of the Great Middle East of the 1990s that stumbled on the failure of peace negotiations between the Palestinians and the Israelis. All along these years, the central question has been how to deal with the Palestinian question in order to allow the Israelis to enter such a regional Arab grouping. In other words, talk of finding a solution to the Palestinian problem has always been linked, in the eyes of the Israelis and the Americans, to a larger strategic priority, which is to make Israel not only a member in the Arab system, but a leading power within it if not the leader. The Americans had realised in the early 1990s, during preparation for the liberation of Kuwait from Iraqi occupation and during the war of liberation itself, that without a solution to the Palestinian question it would always be difficult, if not impossible, to work with the Israelis and the Arabs in joint actions that serve both American and Israeli interests. Hence, the American proposal to convene the Madrid Peace Conference in October 1991. At the time, the administration of former US president George Bush Sr had to exert financial pressure on the Israel government of the time headed by Ishak Shamir to participate in the conference. The peace talks that had taken place were divided into two tracks one bilateral and the second multilateral. It turned out that the main emphasis had centred around the multilateral track. The whole point had been, in fact, to get Israel into the Middle East and North Africa as well. Things did not work out as planned because of Israeli intransigence that had grown more entrenched with the coming to power of Binyamin Netanyahu, for the first time in 1996. Many years later, in December 2016, former US secretary of state John Kerry would call Netanyahus fourth government the most extreme right-wing government in the history of Israel. However, the strategy of bringing Israel into the Middle Eastern system has remained unchanged. The years of upheaval in the Arab world, known as the Arab Spring, paved the way for working on the strategy without much opposition from Arab countries, regardless of solving the Palestinian problem or not. As a matter of fact, the Obama administration had talked seriously about forming an alliance that would bring together the GCC countries, Jordan, Egypt and Israel, but after the implementation of the two-state solution, a Palestinian state, side by side with Israel. It was a sweetener for the Arab side to accept the idea of such an alliance with Israel, the occupying power of Palestinian territories and the Golan Heights. Most of the times, the officials of the Obama administration had talked about Sunni Arab states allied with Israel against Shia Iran. The Trump administration has dropped the sweetener. The regional strategic alliance would be formed, but decoupled from the solution of the Palestinian question. In this regard, President Trump has promised to unveil his ultimate deal to bring peace between the Palestinians and the Israelis in the next few months. The White House postponed announcing the deal several times from day one. The US president said recently that he wished to achieve peace between the Palestinians and the Israelis before his first term in office ends in 2020. Still, the forming of a regional strategic alliance is on track. The Arabs have no negotiating cards to play to make sure that they wont enter into such an alliance before the Palestinians gain back their inalienable rights according to the UN resolutions. This fact brings the credibility of the US-led regional alliance into question. Is it sustainable under present circumstances? It is doubtful. * The writer is former assistant foreign minister. * A version of this article appears in print in the 4 October, 2018 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: Alliance before peace Search Keywords: Short link: A 16-year-old Bahraini student lured an Asian labourer to Bani Jamra village, where he robbed BD450 from the man after beating him up very badly. I am a scrapyard worker. The boy came to me and requested to go with him to Bani Jamra saying he got something to sell us. I wanted to take my co-worker but the boy said there were people to help. Upon reaching Bani Jamra, he dragged me to an isolated area and began attacking me. He robbed my wallet carrying BD450, the victim told prosecutors. The boy was arrested after the police launched an investigation. The court yesterday handed down a suspended one years imprisonment to the convict. The High Appeals Court yesterday acquitted a Bahraini man of arson apart from attempting to murder Sitra Post Office security guard after a psychiatric report showed that he wasnt mentally stable. The details of the case go back to 2014 when 50 rioters staged a protest near the Sitra Post Office in an effort to disturb law and order. They are said to have attacked the post office with firebombers and the security officers cabin caught fire and he suffered burn wounds. The saboteurs allegedly also pelted Molotov cocktails at the police officers who arrived at the scene to defend the office. The accused was one of the suspects identified by the detectives who investigated the case. Mind the Gap. This phrase that you hear many times, if you travel on the London Underground, has an elegant touch of British-ness to it. And it would be completely lost, I think, on the new age Americans who no longer use the word mind in the way the British still do. Regular voice alerts on public address systems, telling commuters to be wary of the gap between the train and the platform, have been very useful for the citys rapid transit system for over a century now. And surely these warnings are somehow keeping safe all Londoners, and all those thousands of visitors who join them, minding their own businesses, criss-crossing the city every day. Last week, for six days, I had been one of the visitors. And except, during the rush hours, I had thoroughly enjoyed using the underground trains, with the oyster card, as I changed the lines, reaching my destinations with hardly any loss of time. And sitting on those trains I was wondering how this amazing transport system has been the life blood of the city, for more than a century. 150 years of London Metro was celebrated by London in 2013, and five more years have also gone past, since then. So, while we in Bahrain are looking forward to Bahrain Metro in the next few years, we must appreciate the fact that, for 155 years, the city of London, with its enormous population and visitors, has been successfully keeping its residents on the move, with amazing precision, and with remarkable safety. As the worlds first subway system started in 1863, from its then main station Paddington, it had become a model for other cities, in many countries, to emulate. And many did. In 201617 alone, London Metro has carried 1.379 billion passengers. Today, its 11 lines collectively handle approximately 4.8 million passengers a day. But it is the worlds 11th busiest metro system today. Which means at least 10 metro services in other cities of the world are busier than the London Metro. Tokyo, Moscow, Seoul, Shanghai, Beijing, New York, Paris, Mexico, Hong Kong and Guangzhou have metro systems busier than Londons (See: www.thoughtco.com/busiest-subways-1435753). Tokyo Metro, which had opened in 1927 is today the worlds busiest metro system catering to 8.7 million daily riders. And the New York City subway, which had opened in 1904, is the worlds sixth busiest, transporting some 5.6 million passengers. India too, in the last few years, has seen a rise of Metro services in many cities, since 1984 when its first metro service had started in Calcutta (now Kolkata). While the newer Metro systems like those of Dubai may be cleaner, smarter, and faster, we cannot ignore the fact that when it comes to efficiency in maintenance, London Metro is still among the top. During my last visit to London too, I was fascinated by the efficient handling of advance announcements and quick diversions, when repairs-and-maintenance works are being carried on, on the tracks. Of course, when millions are relying on the system, it becomes imperative that the system is kept operational at a high level of efficiency. Today, with great advances in technology that the world has seen in rapid transit systems, and with key learnings from busy metro services such as those in Japan and China, we can say that London Underground is no longer a perfect model to follow. But if we really have to mind the gap, the gap of 155 years from its founding till now, is something we must mind. And seriously learn from whatever lessons we can glean, from its efficiency. How far should the US go in trying to preserve good relations with Turkey With the present deterioration in relations between Washington and Ankara a lot of US and European think-tanks are publishing materials on this issue. They sum up the background, discuss the current clashes and make recommendations: either accept the fact that Turkey is no longer a US ally, or try to save US-Turkish relations. Both options have supporters. The materials being published seem to be simultaneously informative and misleading. I confess that I am unable to be objective on this issue, as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been causing a lot of harm to my country. Moreover, I am neither an expert on these countries nor an insider in them. That said, in this article I want to discuss the arguments in these materials that advocate a new start for relations between the US and Turkey. I will focus on those that acknowledge the problems and do not try to minimise what Erdogan is doing. In other words, I will not bother to discuss those that whether out of an understandable dislike for US President Donald Trump or for other reasons try to find excuses for Ankaras behaviour. The main argument for trying to rescue the relations is Turkeys strategic location. Turkey is near Central Europe, the Middle East, the Caucasus, Russia and Central Asia. In almost all these key areas wars have erupted over the past 30 years. Moreover, Ankara can control two crucial flows: emigration to Europe and jihadist movements in many directions. Therefore, in all these areas the US, Europe and even Russia need or may need Turkey. This is obviously a very strong argument for trying to patch up relations. he main problem is whether the interests of Turkey and those of the other actors are the same. The answer is clearly no. Is it possible to strike deals with Ankara? The answer is clearly yes, but only a qualified one. Ankara can always use the threat of a better deal with another power to maximise its gains. Recent history has shown that Erdogan constantly changes his mind (as one Western official once told me, he is the U-turn world champion). Moreover, Turkeys strategic location is a compelling case for working with Ankara, but not for accepting it into an alliance. An alliance, or good relations, needs two willing partners sharing common interests. There is a need to come to terms with the obvious reality that Turkeys foreign policy was and is a major factor of destabilisation in many areas, and unless it dramatically changes its ways this will continue to be the case. Placating Turkey implies accepting that other actors will be damaged, including some close US allies or clients. Placating Erdogan will also give him an incentive to persist in what has become a constant pattern of blackmailing. A grand bargain implying a clear no to such bullying is desirable, but it may not be possible. Collaboration with Turkey on some issues is probably possible and desirable for Russia, Europe and the US, but they should assess the damage done to other allies first. It is also time to start reconsidering alliances and to stop the talk about friendship. Another argument deserves serious discussion. Many people say that US behaviour has been and often is appalling, and that it has never taken Turkeys interests into serious account. As a result, the US, such people say, has a kind of obligation to be tolerant and to stop lecturing Ankara. While it is true that Washington even under former president Barack Obama was prone to unilateralism and to lecturing people, this does not lead to the conclusion that the US now has a special responsibility because its behaviour in the past caused so much havoc. This argument should never mean being tolerant of others bad behaviour. Of course, it might be said that no one truly wants justice for the Kurds and that no one can accept losing Turkey to satisfy them. In other words, it might well be said that foreign policy has nothing to do with justice and that it is about the defence of national interests. This is fair enough. However, then the argument that our own past behaviour was sometimes bad, which is a moral and not a political one, also loses strength. Realism and the defence of interests regardless of justice force us to ask whether Ankaras current behaviour is damaging. The answer is a clear yes. Unless it is reined in either through engagement or through pressure, it will not change. A third argument is that the regime in Ankara is only mildly Islamist and that it is moderate when compared to others. For instance, it never tried to impose Sharia law. This quotation comes from a brilliant article by US commentator Jeffrey Reynolds, who wants to say that while the regime in Ankara may be foolish it is far from being the worst we know. However, there are different kinds of moderation. Erdogan is not really a moderate: he knows, or it would be more accurate to say he knew, when to stop in order to avoid overreaching himself. Second, this more moderate than argument could, if taken seriously, have peculiar consequences: someone might argue for negotiating with Al-Qaeda on the grounds that it is more moderate than the Islamic State (IS) group, for example. Let us admit for the sake of argument that the Erdogan regime is democratic, secular, moderate and intelligent at home. The fact remains that it is the main supporter of many extremist militias in the Middle East and that it can be argued that it played an important role in the creation of IS. In foreign policy, what is relevant is what the regime does in the regional and international system. A fourth argument is that Erdogans behaviour should be accepted as part of a broader pattern of countries in the Third World and the Muslim World being more assertive in stating their interests. This is a welcome development, and I am happy to see my own country being able to raise its voice, defend its interests and contribute to the shaping of international norms. But my country respects international law and badly wants stability and peace. I am not sure this is true of Erdogans Turkey. A similar argument would be that Erdogans foreign policy is typical of those dictated by identity politics. But a global trend is not necessarily a good one. Defining policies, either for my country or for others, is not my job. I understand that Turkeys location and its regional weight make a strong case for working with Erdogan. However, I am also quite sure that ethics do not play a role in this choice quite the contrary. Dealing with him and trying to save relations with Turkey is the right thing to do for realist reasons. But this means making an accurate calculation of costs and benefits and being aware of the difference between negotiating a compromise and placating a dangerous leader who is addicted to blackmail. * The writer is a professor of international relations at the College de France and a visiting professor at Cairo University. * A version of this article appears in print in the 4 October, 2018 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: The US and Turkey Search Keywords: Short link: This find indicates the appearance of a unique technological complex in North Africa around 90,000 years ago A single bone artefact found in a Moroccan cave is the oldest well-dated specialized bone tool associated with the Aterian culture of the Middle Stone Age, according to a study co-authored by the Museums Dr Silvia Bello. The make and manufacture of the tool are distinct from similarly-aged sub-Saharan artefacts, suggesting a unique technological industry in North Africa. The tool was recovered in 2012 from Dar es-Soltan 1 cave, located about 260m inland from the Atlantic coast of Morocco. Upon close examination, the team of scientists were able to identify the origins of the bone as a large mammal rib with evidence of having been shaped and sharpened into a knife measuring at just under 13cm long through a complex series of modifications. The layer containing the bone knife has been dated to approximately 90,000 years ago, approximately 55,000 years after the first appearance of the Aterian culture. Dr Silvia Bello, researcher at the Natural History Museum and co-author on the paper says: Aterians were capable of a complex and controlled sequence of actions involved in the manufacture of specialised bone knives. Such distinctive bone technology implies the emergence of an independent modern techno-complex unique to North Africa around 100,000 years ago. This tool, and the technology used to create it, are distinct from bone tools of a similar age in southern Africa but similar to two tools known from the El Mnasra cave site in Morocco which is also of similar age, suggesting a unique North African Aterian bone technology. Specialized bone tools are considered a sign of cognitive complexity but have been poorly-understood with the Aterian technological complex, so this finding represents a new insight into the development of modern human cognition. The authors also suggest that this new technology may have come about in response to changing resources around 90,000 years ago, but note that more study will be required to support this. Highlighting the significance of this find, lead author Dr Abdeljalil Bouzouggar says: Aterians made specialised bone tools earlier than originally believed and more than 40,000 years before the Neanderthals. The paper will be published Wednesday October 3 in PLOS ONE by Dr Abdeljalil Bouzouggar of the Institut National des Sciences de lArcheologie et du Patrimoine in Morocco, Dr Silvia Bello, Dr Louise Humphrey and Simon Parfitt of the Natural History Museum, London and colleagues. Ends Notes for editors Images: Please download and credit accordingly (Link not for publication) Political leaders and elder statesmen of the North West under the aegis of the North West Progressives Forum (NWPF) have adopted former governor of Kaduna state, Sen. Ahmed Makarfi as the regions consensus candidate going into the Presidential Primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, scheduled to hold on Saturday the 6th of October, 2018.Giving reasons for the adoption of Sen. Makarfi, spokesman for the group Mal. Isa Saleh Funtua, argued that the North West has the highest number of registered voters in Nigeria, and exerts the most influence on the outcome of presidential elections, so must play an active role in deciding which way the 2019 contest goes.Mal. Saleh Funtua said the NWPF dispassionately considered all the talented aspirants from the region hoping to run against Buhari in 2019, and initially managed to narrow it down to four candidates who could not only win the Primaries but more importantly defeat Buhari in the Presidential Election next year.We considered Lamido, a fine gentleman with the political sagacity to defeat any challenger. Unfortunately, the man has an ongoing EFCC case against him, and you know how brutal this APC people are, so he was a few peoples first choice but we could not risk it, Alhaji Saleh Funtua said.We then looked at Kwankwaso. No doubt he is the most popular North West candidate, and perhaps the only one who can actually defeat APC in the region, but let us tell ourselves the truth we did a poll among our brothers and sisters in the South and his candidacy was surprisingly the most resisted. We believe people misunderstood his style of governance when he was governor, and now incorrectly think he is a fundamentalist. He is a gentleman, but the South has formed a biased opinion against him and will not support him, that is the truth.The third aspirant we considered was Governor Aminu Tambuwal. It is unfortunate that this gentleman has allowed his candidacy be hijacked by Governor Wike. Yes, he enjoys immunity, but Tambuwal hasnt managed to galvanise widespread political support. Even worse, it appears Wike wants to impose him and the North West cannot allow Wike from his parlour in Port Harcourt decide what is best for us, and for Nigeria. That is not democracy! We think it was very politically naive of Tambuwal to have allowed this happen. We are not the APC that has godfathers like Tinubu who single-handedly decide what happens within the Party.So we have settled for Sen. Makarfi as the man whose candidacy best protects and promotes the interests of the North West and of Nigeria. He was a governor of Kaduna state; he has been a Federal Senator, and he showed his political dexterity when he held the PDP together as its National Caretaker Chairman. Sen. Makarfi is seen by Northerners and Nigerians as a man of integrity and perhaps more importantly he is a unifier. Nigeria has never been this divided before, and just as Sen. Makarfi united Kaduna during his tenure as Governor, we expect him to unify Nigeria once he becomes President.The NWPF say they are currently communicating their decision to prominent leaders of the country like Olusegun Obasanjo, Ibrahim Babangida, Abdulsalami Abubakar, Edwin Clark, Tony Anenih, Ango Abdullahi, Goodluck Jonathan, Ayo Adebanjo, TY Danjuma, Bishop Kukah, the Emir of Kano and the Sultan of Sokoto, including groups such as Afenefere, Ohaneze, PANDEF, and ACF.This is not a selfish decision we have reached. We believe the 2019 elections will be a contest for the very soul of Nigeria, and that we cannot afford personal ambition to get in the way of rescuing Nigeria. Even though he is a dark horse, we 100% believe that Sen. Makarfi is the only candidate able to galvanise the national support from North to South needed to remove Buhari in 2019. The Osun State Governor-elect, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, has received the certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission.He was given the certificate of return at the INEC office in Osogbo, the Osun State capital on Wednesday by the Director of Legal Services, Mr Oluwatoyin Babalola, who represented the Chairman of the commission, Prof Mahmood Yakubu.Oyetola, who was declared the winner of the election contested on the platform of the All Progressives Congress and defeated the Peoples Democratic Party, Senator Ademola Adeleke.Details soon. This year we will commemorate the seventieth anniversary of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (the Genocide Convention). The Genocide Convention was the first human rights treaty to be adopted by the United Nations General Assembly, on 9 December 1948, just three years after the birth of the United Nations. Its adoption was largely the result of the tireless efforts of one man, Raphael Lemkin who, after losing most of his family in the Holocaust, was determined to do what he could to make sure that this crime could never happen again. Some six million Jews were murdered in the Holocaust, one of the most devastating human tragedies of the twentieth century, as well as many others whom the Nazis considered undesirable. The Genocide Convention represents the United Nations commitment to the often quoted never again; a commitment to learn from and not repeat history. Regrettably, this commitment has often failed to translate into action, even when it has been most needed. We saw this in 1994 in the abject failure of the international community to prevent the genocide of the Tutsis in Rwanda, which cost the lives of almost a million people in the space of 100 days. No more than a year later, we witnessed it again as the international community, including United Nations peacekeepers, looked away during the Srebrenica genocide in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Important progress has been made since - and because of - these failures. In 1998, the International Criminal Court was established, a permanent court already foreseen by the Genocide Convention in 1948. In 2005, the Secretary-General established the post of Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, a position I currently hold, to ensure that there is a voice within the United Nations system that can alert the Secretary-General and, through him, the Security Council, to early warning signs of genocide and advocate for preventative action before genocide becomes a reality. In addition, at the 2005 World Summit all United Nations Member States made a ground-breaking commitment to protect their populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity (atrocity crimes) and to take collective action when States manifestly fail to do so, in accordance with and using the tools provided by the United Nations Charter. This has become known as the principle of the responsibility to protect Despite these achievements and the continued commitment to never again, we have not managed to eradicate genocide. International crimes, including genocide, are a terrible reality faced by populations across the globe. We know the warning signs and we know how to prevent these crimes, but we often fail to act in time, or to act at all. In the Central African Republic, Iraq, Myanmar, South Sudan, Syria and in so many other places, people are being targeted because of their identity - because of the religion they practice, the culture in which they were raised or simply because of their distinctive physical characteristics. This is unacceptable. We also fail to invest sufficiently in prevention, to build the resilience needed to address the risk factors for genocide, or to take timely and decisive action when we see the warning signs. Our commitment to the Genocide Convention must be reinvigorated. The fact that we have not eradicated genocide is not because the Convention is flawed, but rather because its potential has not been fully realised. And despite universal rejection of genocide, some Member States have still not taken the fundamental step of ratifying the Convention. At the time of writing, 145 States have ratified the Genocide Convention. Surprisingly, 45 United Nations Member States have not yet done so. Of these 20 are in Africa, 18 in Asia and seven in Latin America. Universal ratification of the Convention is fundamental to demonstrate that genocide has no place in our world. That no one should fear discrimination, persecution or violence simply because of who they are. What message are the States who have not ratified the Convention sending, 70 years after its adoption? That genocide could never happen within their borders? Genocide can happen anywhere. History has shown us time and again that no region or country is immune. Yet many States seem reluctant to even consider this a possibility or to undertake a critical evaluation of their risks and vulnerabilities. In December last year, I launched an appeal for universal ratification of the Genocide Convention, urging the 45 United Nations Member States that have not done so to take steps to ratify or accede to the Convention before its 70th anniversary on 9 December 2018. The aim of this appeal is to refocus our attention on the Convention, underline its continued importance as the legal standard for ensuring the punishment of this crime, as well as its often-untapped potential as a tool for prevention. The Genocide Convention, together with its sister treaties on human rights and the Rome Statute for the International Criminal Court, remains the most important legal standard we have to fulfill the commitment to never again that the world made 70 years ago. For our own sakes, and for the sake of future generations: #PreventGenocide. To learn more about the Convention and how you can support the appeal click here To learn more about the Special Adviser and the work of his office click here * Adama Dieng is United Nations Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide Search Keywords: Short link: Senator Dino Melaye was on Tuesday affirmed as the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, flagbearer for Kogi West senatorial district for the... Senator Dino Melaye was on Tuesday affirmed as the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, flagbearer for Kogi West senatorial district for the 2019 general election. There was a twist in the primary as four other contenders in the race were not cleared by the party screening committee while two others stepped down for the Senator who just returned from the APC to the party. Those who stepped down for Melaye were former commissioner of local government and chieftaincy affairs, Tolorunjuwon Faniyi and the current Reps member representing Kabba/bunu/ ijumu federal constituency, Hon. Tajudeen Yusuf. Those not cleared for the primary included Sunday Karimi, member representing Yagba federal constituency, former acting governor of the state, Clarence Olafemi, Henry Ojuola and Ganiyu Salaudeen all from the Yagba federal constituency who felt it was their turn to produce the next senator. The affirmation primaries was conducted at the Prestige hotels in Kabba, headquarters of the senatorial district. Returning officer for the exercise, Mr. Jude Sule said Melaiye scored all the delegates votes from the seven council areas that made the district. The exercise which was peaceful was monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and some security personnel. Reacting after the exercise, Melaiye said the affirmation was Shocking but not surprising bearing in mind that he has represented the axis wonderfully at the upper champer of the national assembly. He said the decision of the party to endorse him will act as a tonic for him to work more for the district when he eventually wins his secord term bid. He, however, appealed to all other aspirants who were aggrieved about his choice for the party to let go of their anger and join hands with him to rid the state and the country of the bad governance of APC, both at the state and national level. Meanwhile, tension was said to be very high at Idah, venue of the Kogi East senatorial district where seven aspirants, including the incumbent senator Attai Aidoko are vying for the conveted seat. As at 6:00pm, the delegates were said to still be endlessly waiting for the arrival of the voting materials. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has asked a federal high court to dismiss a motion filed by Nenadi Usman, ex-minis... The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has asked a federal high court to dismiss a motion filed by Nenadi Usman, ex-minister of state for finance, seeking the imprisonment of Lai Mohammed, minister of information, over alleged contempt. The former minister, through Fedinand Orbih, her lawyer, said the inclusion of her name on the looters list released by Mohammed was contemptuous. But Rotimi Oyedepo, EFCC lawyer, said the motion brought by the former minister was an abuse of court process. Oyedepo said Mohammed did not refer to her as a looter. He said: The minister of information is not a party to the criminal proceedings against the applicant; there is no evidence to show that the alleged contemnor works with the various media houses that published the alleged offensive publication. Besides, there were no allegations against the media houses that published the alleged offensive publication. There was nothing that connected the ministry of information to the motion which was taken out to annoy the prosecution; the motion is lacking in substance, it is an abuse of courts process and should be dismissed. Mohammed Aikawa, the presiding judge, reserved his ruling on the motion until November 16. The former minister was arraigned for money laundering charges and is standing trial with Femi Fani -Kayode, former minister of aviation, and Yusuf Danjuma, former chairman of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON). Ade Adejumo, zonal coordinator of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Ibadan zone, says the federal government intends to... Ade Adejumo, zonal coordinator of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Ibadan zone, says the federal government intends to increase the tuition of varsities to N350,000. The ASUU executive made the claim on Tuesday while addressing members of the Correspondents Chapel, Ibadan. Adejumo described the alleged plan as an impending labour crisis in Nigerias higher institutions. He said: The union is again constrained to draw the attention of Nigerian public to an impending labour crisis in the Nigerian universities as a result of the insensitivity of the Nigerian government to issues critical to the survival of the educational system in Nigeria. It is no longer news that the renegotiation, which the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, promised was going to last for only six weeks, has broken down. The reason for this very unfortunate development will appeal most Nigerians. First, the leader of the government team, who was supposed to be an arbiter between the parties, assumed an arrogant attitude that sought to foist a predetermined mindset of government on the union. The union was confronted with a situation where the government is bent on imposing tuition fees, beginning from N350,000, on students in the Nigerian public-owned tertiary institutions. Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, has taken a swipe at Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial district, Dino Melaye. Osinbajo used... Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, has taken a swipe at Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial district, Dino Melaye. Osinbajo used the politician, who recently defected to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, from the All Progressives Congress, APC, to describe Nigerians as the most humorous people in the world. Osinbajo spoke at the dinner and gala night held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja to mark the nations 58th independence anniversary. The Vice President explained that apart from being one of the happiest and most optimistic people, Nigerians were the most humorous people on earth. He supported his claim with Melayes recent claim that he was abducted on his way to a court in Kogi State and had to spend 11 hours on a tree. Although Osinbajo did not mention the names of the Senator, the events he mentioned clearly pointed in their direction. Osinbajo said, A few years ago, a poll reported in the British Independent Newspaper declared us the happiest people on earth. The same poll said that we were also amongst the most optimistic people on earth, despite everything that weve experienced as a nation. I agree with both assessments, in other words, that we are possibly one of the happiest in the world, but I must also add that we are, by far, the most humorous people on the face of the earth. Well, if you dont agree with me, but I can tell you so many reasons why we are the most humorous. A few months ago, an important Nigerian politician who was on his way to a trial in a court said he was abducted and after he escaped from his abductors, he remained hiding on a tree for 11 hours. President Muhammadu Buhari has written the Senate requesting that Mr Olanipekun Olukoyede be confirmed as the Secretary of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.In a letter dated September 10, 2018, which was addressed to Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, Buhari asked that Olukoyede, who is currently the chief of staff to the acting chairman of the EFCC, Mr Ibrahim Magu, be confirmed in accordance with Section 2 of the EFCC Act.The letter read in part, In compliance with the provision of Section 2 (3)Of the Economic and Financial Crimes (Establishment) Act 2010, I write to request for the confirmation of Olanipekun Olukoyede. for appointment as the secretary of the EFCC.While looking forward to your usual expeditious consideration of the distinguished Senate, please accept, Mr Senate President, the assurances of my highest consideration.The Senate had on two occasions rejected the nomination of Magu as the EFCC chairman.The legislators had, however, confirmed the appointment of others into the board of the EFCC. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to Pyongyang on Saturday to try to further denuclearization talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, the State Department said on Tuesday. Pompeo will also travel to Japan, South Korea and China from Oct. 6-8, U.S. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told reporters. "I think it shows forward progress and momentum that the secretary is making his fourth trip back in less than a year," Nauert said. "Of course, we have quite a ways to go but we look forward to the next steps in this conversation," she added. 10.2 mln int'l tourists arrive in Spain in August From:Xinhua | 2018-10-03 01:36 Video PlayerClose MADRID, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- A total of 10.2 million international tourists arrived in Spain in August this year, a 1.9 percent decrease year-on-year, the National Institute of Statistics (INE) reported on Tuesday. The figure meant that for the first time since 2011, Spain does not register a record high in international arrivals. The INE also reported that in the first eight months of the year, Spain received 57.3 million international tourists, which represented a slight decrease of 0.1 percent when compared with the same period of a year earlier. Spain received 12.9 million tourists from Britain in the first eight months of the year, 8.3 million from France and 7.7 million from Germany, the INE said. As for August, international tourists spent 11.54 billion euros in the country, a 1.8 percent increase when compared with the same month last year. Spending per tourist reached 1,131 euros (1,307 US dollars), which meant a 3.7 percent rise year-on-year, and the average daily spending per tourist reached 139 euros, 10.7 percent more than in the same month of a year earlier. "It is very positive that tourist spending continues to grow even in those markets such as the British, which registered a lower dynamism in the number of travelers this year after an exceptional 2017", the State Secretary for Tourism, Isabel Oliver, said in a statement. "We focus on a quality tourism model rather than a quantity one and therefore spending should be the indicator with which we measure the strength of our sector", Oliver pointed out. Oliver's words are in line with the strategy of the government, which aims at encouraging spending per visitor, the secretary general of the Tourism Board of the Government, German Porras, said in an exclusive interview with Xinhua. "Spain is committed to transforming its tourism model and moving on from the huge number of visitors to an increase of spending", Porras said. (1 euro=1.15 US dollars) Livestreaming boosts local incomes From:ChinaDaily | 2018-10-03 10:05 Farmers increasingly turning to e-commerce, using online marketing techniques to improve their sales A town nestled in the mountains of Hunan province is gaining fame as a trailblazer in poverty reduction thanks to its robust e-commerce activities. Songbai town has abundant agricultural commodities including kiwi fruit, honey and rice, but farmers have had a hard time selling their products due to their isolated location and a substandard transportation system. In May 2015, Fu Changjie from an e-commerce company in Hunan, led a team to offer training covering livestreaming and online sales to local villagers. Later, 187 of those farmers started their own online businesses. Dhangadhi, October 3 An unidentified group on Wednesday morning torched copies of the Kantipur, The Kathmandu Post and Nagarik daily in Attariya bazaar of Kailali district. Four unidentified people seized stacks of the newspapers from a distribution jeep in Attariya bazaar and set them on fire. The newspapers were brought from Nepalgunj. The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) Kailali branch had condemned the incident and sought stern action against the people involved in the incident. It termed the incident as an attack on press freedom. After working as a barista for leading coffee shops in Kathmandu, Kishan Gurung went to Lhasa to experiment with the Tibetan coffee market. Impressed with his coffee making skills, top coffee shops of the Tibetan capital offered him a job with lucrative pay. But, Gurung did not accept the offer and came back to Nepalbecause he had something bigger going on his mind. He wanted to pioneer a different style of coffee making in Nepal. Coffee2GoNepal, a company Gurung established in partnership with his schoolmate Niran Shrestha, claims to be Nepals first mobile coffee shop. Established in January this year, the company is planning to launch its full-fledged business within the next two months, with a mission to bring a revolution in Nepals coffee business. Schoolmates business partnership Gurung, a resident of Kathmandu and Shrestha from Sindhupalchok first met as classmates around 13 years ago. They studied grades 11 and 12 at Pasang Lhamu Sherpa Memorial College in Gongabu. The friends did not have any big ambitions during their teenage days. We did our bachelors from different institutions. Then, both of us could not continue our studies due to different reasons, Shrestha says, Perhaps, it is something that brought us together again. After completing his bachelors, Gurung learned coffee-making skills and worked for a number of shops whereas Shrestha was already engaged in a marketing job at Civil Mall. Gurung would come to me very often and tell me we need to do something. He motivated me not to leave the country in search of opportunities and start something here, Shrestha shares, But, we were undecided until last year. In the meantime, Gurung got an opportunity to visit Singapore, where he saw coffee being served on vehicles. As someone engaged in serving coffee to his customers for years, he thought of replicating the model in Nepal. After coming back, he shared the idea with Shrestha, who also found it interesting. Investment in instalments After rigorous discussions for around three months, Gurung and Shrestha finalised the business model. They estimated that more than 1 million rupees would be needed to run the business. But, we did not have money. So we delayed the process and decided to purchase whatever we could whenever we had money. First, the duo bought a secondhand van to use as a mobile shop. It cost Rs 350,000, which was way cheaper than what we had expected. We spent Rs 50,000 to repair the van. Further, it cost around 120,000 to add rods and metal plates onto the van so that it can firmly hold the machine. Again we saved up and bought a double-head coffeemaker for Rs 600,000. According to Shrestha, they have so far invested Rs 1.2 million. As the team is gearing up for expansion, they have planned an addition to the investment. We will serve fruit juice also in the near future, Gurung says, adding the coffee van currently serves six varieties of coffee: Americano, Cappuccino, Latte, Espresso, Iced Americano and Iced Latte. Coffee for everyone Gurung says he propounded the business idea in order to materialise his dream of coffee for everyone. In Nepal, coffee is still an elite beverage, apparently because it is expensive at shops. We want to destroy that perception. Therefore, products from Coffee2GoNepal are surprisingly cheaper. We sell a cup of coffee for Rs 40; for the same amount you have to pay Rs 140 at a shop, Shrestha says, That is possible because making a cup of coffee is possible by investing just around Rs 25. Shops have to charge more to cover their operational costs. In order to realise the dream of coffee for everyone, the duo also plans to open a stationary coffee shop that will offer coffee at cheap rates. The team has already started negotiations with leading shopping malls. The duo also plans to deliver coffee cups to customers homes. But, we fear that our friends from other coffee shops will be angry at us for spoiling their market, Shrestha jokes. Healthy turnover in first eight months Shrestha informs that the first eight months of their business has been steady and it has encouraged them to expand. So far, we have been just experimenting with the market. We have been taking our van to places where people gather for different events like concerts, special markets and even religious fairs. We also served at some colleges upon their request, an excited Shrestha shares, Even then, almost half of our investment has returned. At colleges, we found that the same students come to drink coffee every day. Therefore, we also introduced a discount cardonce you drink nine cups of coffee, the tenth will be on us. Till now, Coffee2GoNepal is a two-man team. We looked for other drivers and baristas to join our team, but we have not found people who are both skilled and reliable, Gurung says, But now, we cannot do it alone. We will soon hire at least two baristas and one driver because our business will go fulltime now. Shrestha informs that the team will offer higher pays to its staff in order to attract quality human resources available in the market. If you do a survey at coffee shops of Kathmandu, a barista works for Rs 8,000 to Rs 14,000 a month. Most of them are students who have been forced to work for low pay with a hope that it will help pay their college bills. But, we will pay them at least Rs 20,000. The companys success in the initial months has been reflected on franchise demands sent by entrepreneurs of cities outside Kathmandu like Pokhara and Dharan. But, we are not in a position to sell our franchise now as we are yet to give a full shape to our business here in Kathmandu, Shrestha says. He claims that his teams business idea is innovative and practical, therefore it will not fail. The barista career in the global market has attracted a lot of Nepali youth these days; and hence we want to cash in on that opportunity by stopping them here. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. alextbh is a queer 22-year-old pop star on the rise from Malaysia who never thought he'd find his place in the music industry. But due to high profile gigs like opening for Sevdaliza, and impressive streaming numbers (more than 10 million streams on Spotify), he is fast making waves and gaining an engaged following in the process. Unlike many peers his age who've been afforded the luxury of nepotism, Alex is an independent self-starter who has relied on DIY resourcefulness to get him where he is now. As a teenager, Alex was teaching himself music software programs so that he could produce his own beats; he designs his own videos with small crews of less than five close friends, wearing rented clothes from local boutiques; he brings pride flags with him when he travels for performances; and books his flights to Europe for musical collaborations. Part of this scrappy self-determination comes from what Alex learns from the close-knit LGBTQ+ community in Malaysia (he currently lives in Kuala Lumpur, the nation's capital). But it's fueled by his desire to create a future for queer people in Malaysia that is much safer than the one he has grown up being exposed to. Sodomy is still considered a crime in the country, a leftover law from the British Empire's colonial rule. Also, social attitudes toward LGBTQ people are still largely influenced by Islam, which is the country's official religion. Advocacy and research organization Human Rights Watch reports that "Article 10 of Malaysia's Constitution guarantees that every citizen has the right to freedom of expression, but the Malaysian government violates that right on a regular basis," meaning that discrimination against Alex's community is pervasive and unregulated. Related | 50 LGBTQ Musicians You Should Prioritize Regardless, alextbh is committed to serving his community and living his truth through the vehicle of R&B-inflected, adventurous pop music. His songs are smart, left-of-center, and explicitly honest. Songs like "Stoop So Low" call out men who abuse his feelings, and "Mornings (See You Again)" contemplate morning-after reflections in light of a hookup. PAPER caught up with alextbh in Kuala Lumpur over-the-phone to talk about his experiences, and the exclusive premiere of his new video for "still mine," which Alex shot on location in Singapore with director Jasper Tan. "The song chronicles what some might see as jealousy, but honestly, I can't do long-distance," Alex said. "The video is cool, odd angles, including a series of shots of me in the middle of this fucking pond, getting dirty wearing Gosha Rubchinskiy. It looks chaotic, but documents how I felt when making the song. I didn't have to pay for it. What's better?" How did you get your start making music? I started writing when I was 13 with GarageBand on an iMac that my mom got me for my birthday. I really started exploring Pro-tools and using Ableton at 18. I would go on YouTube to learn all the tutorials on how to create certain synths, or drums, or drop beats. So I was all self-taught, really. I wish I knew to sign up for vocal classes, I feel like that's definitely needed at this point. Probably a couple of production classes as well. Honestly, I never expected myself to be in the music industry ever. It wasn't until I started putting songs up on Soundcloud and people noticing it that I realized, "Oh, this could be an actual thing, and I could actually do something about it." If it wasn't for my friends and other creatives around me that pushed me to do all of this I wouldn't have been here. But alextbh started in 2016, fresh off my first heartbreak. I'm just a little twink trying to get it all together, and I realized music is such a good way for me to have that cathartic release. So I just kept writing and writing and writing and putting stuff on SoundCloud, it wasn't a big deal. It wasn't until I put up the song called "Stoop So Low" that Spotify started recognizing it and started putting it in huge major playlists. I freaked out, I never expected it. I spent zero dollars on PR, or publicists or anything like that. I didn't even know what publicists were! I learned a lot in the past year working with my manager in LA. It's so crazy, the story of me and him. We basically met a little over a year ago, but we never met in person until this year in May, when we decided to meet in London. I'd never been to London, so it was a whole crazy experience in itself. What's it's been like for you growing up gay in Malaysia? What is your take on the current climate for LGBTQ people? Honestly, I never knew that I was low-key homophobic and ignorant growing up. I realized it when I was in university and people were calling it out. I think most Malaysians, like queer Malaysians are more geared toward that because there's just not many people like us and there's not education, so you just think that everything you say is alright until people started calling me out. Then I was like, "Okay, this is wrong, this is not what it's supposed to be," and I started changing. When I was younger I wasn't really confident. I hate the term "straight acting," but that's the case where everybody I feel [does that], but that's only because it's extremely dangerous to be queer in Malaysia. When you realize being gay means risking getting raped and murdered in public, and trans people getting verbally and physically assaulted on a daily basis, I can't really blame queer people who choose this route [hiding their homosexuality]. But it's kind of like a lose-lose situation for both, because queer people have to resort to, "Oh, I have to be straight to society," but at the same time, straight people are just here antagonizing everybody. And it's not getting any better because we had a huge election this year, and when new government is elected, which, by the way, a lot of queer people voted for, a lot of people thought we were going to be progressive, we were going to step to the right direction, but that doesn't seem to be the case. There are a lot of bars and gay clubs that have been shut down recently, they did a huge crack down on that and it's just not a good year for queer people [in Malaysia]. But then again, I find it really interesting because for the past two years, I have only exclusively surrounded myself with queer people. I have one token straight friend. "[Malaysia is] a really dangerous place. But it also serves as a message that us queer people should really stand up for what we fight for." Me too! But what are some of the consequences there for being out? Well, the last two years [since launching my music career] I've been living in this safe space and I live in this cute little bubble with myself, nobody can touch me. So, when I read the news, for example, this guy getting murdered and raped just because he looked effeminate, or a trans woman being assaulted, that's when I realized, "Okay, yeah this shit is not good in Malaysia." And it's really complex as well because Malaysia is a majority Muslim country, so it's just a matter of time before we have to bring up the conversation of integrating religion and LGBT+ communities together and be inclusive. It's very difficult to do it here, so I find that to be really interesting. I don't have any answers to it to be honest, I'm still trying to figure that out and my friends, too! I'm not Muslim but my Muslim friends are trying to figure that out as well. And I feel really sorry for them because they have this identity crisis. Imagine growing up as a Muslim, but you also start to explore your sexuality. Those two usually don't really coincide in Malaysia. That's a huge struggle for a lot of people here. I realize that once I step out of this bubble I'm in, it's a really dangerous place. But it also serves as a message that us queer people should really stand up for what we fight for. I guess that's why I never hold myself back in terms of my sexuality. I remember the first time that I performed, I wasn't planning to talk about my ex, but I brought it up, and everyone [in the queer community] was like, "Oh my god, gay icon!" And I'm like, "Okay, this is great." People were accepting me on the very first day. I'm really grateful for that, because I think if it wasn't for that I would probably hold myself back more. I remember performing in Singapore and bringing pride flags with me, parading around. I did that again when I opened for Sevdaliza this year, and that just felt so fucking liberating. People who listen to my music have my back. Photography: Julia Lowe It's enlightening talking to you about this, because I believe Americans have a very different view of LGBT+ rights and visibility. Imagine how hindered we'd be if the entire culture still discouraged being out. Absolutely. Your definition of LGBT+ rights are is very different compared to places like Malaysia and Indonesia. It's on another level, and we're [both] literally living in the same time, but I feel like we're trying to wait for somebody to fucking throw the first brick at Malaysia's Stonewall, or something. It's probably going to happen sometime soon, not gonna lie. It is tense right now. In Singapore, they're trying to appeal a repeal of Section 3778 which criminalizes sodomy. Same thing in Malaysia, and fun fact: it's actually a left-over colonial law from when the British ruled. I can't believe we're still using a Draconian law over here in Malaysia. A law from the colonizer. That's so horrifying. Exactly, a law left over from the colonizers. In history, queer people are born here. Even in Asian history, you can see in Hinduism, you can even see in Malaysia but it's really sad that people in the government are trying to erase that part of us, acting as if this is some liberal disease, as if they have the cure for the beginning of time. "Being out is probably my only weapon against the government. If my voice and my songs don't do enough, then my existence does." What I also find interesting is how committed you are to staying there and supporting your community. It seems that you've had to take great measures to be yourself, but also to protect yourself. Yeah. I'm really toeing the line right now, and I'm really surprised the government's not spying on me, because I did a lot of questionable things. The more I do it, the more powerful I feel. And also, it's a great statement to make, especially in this climate when a lot of LGBT+ communities are in jeopardy. Being out is probably my only weapon against the government. If my voice and my songs don't do enough, then my existence does. Being onstage telling people, "Look, there's a Southeast Asian queer artist and he's just like everybody else." That message alone makes me feel really humble. How does your family feel about you being out and making pop music? First they were like, "What the fuck are you doing, I asked you to stay in school." And I was like, "Okay, you know what Dad, I'm just not going to tell you anything from now on," and so I didn't tell him anything for a year, and after alextbh started gaining a little bit of traction, my parents were like, "Oh gee, maybe you should do this," and I'm like, "See, bitch? I told you." Main photo: Wanjie Major Nepali and English broadsheet dailies published from Kathmandu Valley on Wednesday have given priority to a variety of issues from political, sociocultural and financial spheres. Comparatively, there are fewer issues that have been made into the front page of most of the newspapers today. At least three broadsheets have published reports about the contract signed between the Nepal Army and a South Korean company for the preparation of a detailed project report for the proposed Kathmandu-Terai fast track. Likewise, activities of various parliamentary committees have also been highlighted on the front pages of major newspapers though the Federal Parliament has already been prorogued. As the biggest festival of Nepalis, Dashain, is approaching closer, some newspapers have published reports about preparations for the festival. Important Rs 101 million contract for fast track DPR Gorkhapatra, Nagarik, Naya Patrika, Karobar, Rajdhani and The Kathmandu Post report that the Nepal Army is paying Rs 101 million to the South Korean firm, Soosung Engineering, for the preparation of a detailed project report for the Kathmandu-Terai fast track. The national military organisation had initiated the process to appoint the new contractor after Indian company, IL&FS demanded Rs 1 billion for the DPR it had already prepared, according to Naya Patrika. Lawmakers demand probe into armys financial irregularities The Kathmandu Post reports in its lead story that members of the State Affairs Committee in the House of Representatives have demanded that a high level parliamentary committee be formed to probe the alleged financial irregularities in the Nepal Army as reported by some media outlets. The demand follows reports about the increasing involvement of the national defence force in business related activities. The Committee had summoned Defence Minister Ishwar Pokharel, Defence Secretary Bishnu Prsad Lamsal and Army Chief Purna Chandra Thapa to the meeting yesterday to discuss the issue. Ignored Chiribabu Maharjans 10th foreign trip in 16 months The Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City, Chiribabu Maharjan, left for Mongolia on Tuesday, on his 10th foreign trip since he assumed office around 16 months ago, reports Nepal Samacharpatra in its lead story for the day. The report claims that Maharjan, who apparently is the chief of any local body in the country visiting other countries for the highest number of times currently, decided to go to Mongolia for a function on sustainable transportation though other members of the local government and his advisors suggested he cancel the trip. TIA lacks technology to check biometric information Kantipur reports in a brief box story that Nepals single international airport does not have any technology to check biometric information of people arriving in the country. Whereas Nepal grants on-arrival tourist visa to citizens of most of the countries, the lack of sufficient surveillance technologies has allowed smugglers to use the Tribhuvan International Airport as a hub for their illegal transactions, according to the report. Lawmakers want DPR prepared before cutting down trees Members of Parliament representing Makawanpur, Bara, Parsa and Rautahat districts have demanded that the government do not begin chopping down trees of the forest area in Nijgadh in Bara district immediately for the construction of an international airport there, Rajdhani reports in a three column box story. They have demanded that the government prepare a detailed project report for the airport first before destroying the forest area. CJ demands Administrative Courts jurisdiction expanded Chief Justice Om Prakash Mishra has demanded that the government give more power and authority to the Administrative Court as recommended by the full bench of apex court sometimes ago. Mishras comment comes at a time when the House of Representatives is discussing a bill about the Administrative Court. Meanwhile, Law Minister Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal assured that the courts jurisdiction would be expanded to all seven provinces of the country, according to a report in Gorkhapatra. Interesting TU LLB: Capacity 600, enrolled students 12,000 Republica reports in a three column story that around 12,000 students have got themselves enrolled for the Bachelor of Law (LLB) programme of the Tribhuvan University though the university has the capacity to teach only 600 students in one year. The universitys Nepal Law Campus earned Rs 108 million in admission fees, the newspaper report says, adding this is said to be an all time high in admissions at one college in a single year. The campus authorities said that the number is still increasing. Oluwaseun Babalolaor 'Seun, for shortis a Sierra Leonean-Nigerian America (her mother is from Freetown, Sierra Leone; father is from Lagos, Nigeria) who grew up and is based in New York City. As an African who grew up in America, Babalola was exposed to more than her share of all-too-common Westernized misconceptions about her homeland. Stateside, and even worldwide, views on Africa remain decidedly misleading, mostly perpetuated by Western media and trickling down to "everyone else." Mostly, there are rare spotlights of the continent's 54 sovereign states, countries, and territories, instead media often focuses on Africa as a monolith. Elsewhere, economic outlooks remain focused solely on its overall third-world poverty despite its abundance of natural resources and rise of developing cities within the continent's larger countries, from Nigeria and Kenya to Egypt and South Africa. Not to mention, the Western cultural gaze on Africa hardly recognizes subcultures within the continent, focusing mostly on what "we" end up perceiving as a total lack of freedom. How would our perceptions of Africa change if we were aware of female surfers in Sierra Leone, or the rising tech and death metal scenes in Botswana, or the prevalence of queer activists in Nigeria? This is where Babalola comes in. As the founder and executive producer of Do Global Productions, Babalola has created a dynamic documentary-style series called SOJU. As a one-woman, self-produced endeavor, Babalola's series works to shatter unfortunate stereotypes while humanizing diverse people committed to their communities' progress. And it's working: SOJU has been featured on Afropunk, has thus far screened at 11 festivals, and was the winner of the last year's prestigious Black World Cinema Afrofuturism Film Competition. PAPER sat down with Babalola to talk about positive representation, the varied feedback she has received from Americans and Africans alike, and what she's doing to support the creative industry of Nigeria. How did the idea of the show come about for you? It happened in phases. I had wanted to do it for a really long time. I was working at a media company where I was an editor, and so I just wanted to branch out into production but I really didn't know how. So, I was like let me just take this leap and try to make this show and see what I can do with it. I also love different styles of music made in Africa, and wanted to incorporate that into the series. I wasn't seeing content that I wanted to see, and I didn't see anyone else sharing it. I bought camera equipment, left, and filmed it. What were some of the common misconceptions you were hearing about or seeing that kind of motivated you to tell your stories? Basically, I wanted to share that it's not a country. I would tell people where I'm from and they were like "oh yeah, Africa" and, "Yeah, but you should be specific where you're talking about." That was also another part, I wanted to show that even within a country, you'll have like thirty languages and multiple ethnic groups. So, I wanted to show that but also wanted to show that there's richness, bringing scenes that you can visit and you can visit different parts of Africa and not have to go on safaris. You can talk to people and have things to do and people don't have to be scared. When I was younger, we didn't really get to travel back because it was very expensive, so I only really got to go when I was older and had my own income. There isn't that much online either about itI don't even think people know what it looks like. I remember telling a co-worker that I went to Nairobi and showed her pictures and she was like, "Oh, there are tall buildings." I just wanted to contribute something really positive because you don't really get that much positivity in the way that people view the continent. "People in Africa aren't just sitting around waiting for charitythere are people working really hard to progress and move things further." In one of your videos, you included a clip of a journalist who was standing in front of what looks like a slum village and noting how much poverty is around him. It seems to always goes back to that, especially when white people are controlling the narrative. I found it interesting that you decided to include that clip. It speaks volumes about how public perception of Africa is often shaped. Yeah, so here's the thing: everywhere has problems: The U.S. has problems, New York has problems, but for some reason, I find that some people only like to focus on the African problems and there are definitely huge problems, there's a lot. But what I think is really important is to show the nuances within that context for the problems. How are they created, for example. More than that, I wanted to show how awesome this place is and the diversity and that there are people making efforts to solve the issues that are there as well. People in Africa aren't just sitting around waiting for charitythere are people working really hard to progress and move things further. In one of your videos, "Africa's Reimagined Future," the subjects talked about how they felt people perceive them. Does the reaction of surprise shock or offend you, when Americans watch and learn that maybe they've held onto stereotypes of what Africans are? A large part of it is, I don't really blame people for being surprised because were taught in schools, what we see on TV, we just don't see Africa correctly at all. People on the ground, don't always have the resources to show the problems that they're working onpeople need to look more in depth about finding things about these cultures out, which is also something that I am trying to facilitate. Maybe I can be the bridge to show these great platforms that people are working on. What were some biggest things you learned while on the ground and filming? Many things. I think my approach has shifted, I learned that when I wasn't going to big cities, I was going to remote towns and I realized that the stereotype of the videographer coming to do a documentary exists and they are aware of it as well. There's a consciousness that I didn't want to be exploited and I didn't want them to view me in the same way. So, I had to do a lot of convincing to be like, "I know, I'm American. But guess what? I'm African too," so I'm not here to exploit you. There was a woman who was just like, "I don't want to take part, you are going to show me like I am a monkey." I was like, "Wow this is really terrible." Also, along with that, being a woman behind a camera caught a lot of people by surprise. They were like, "Where's your crew?" And I was like, "They're not coming." I've been to seven countries so far, and I'm learning the differences in temperament and mannerisms, just like everyday culture. I'm loving that I am able to notice that now. How do you feel people have been responding to it? This past June, I screened it in Nigeria and Ghana because it's for Africans, so I wanted to see what they thought about it. I am getting pretty positive responses and it's really exciting for me because people are like, "Hey, I've had this idea that I wanted to do like this too with my hometown, you showed me that can be done." In Ghana, I loved the reaction because it was the first time within Africans that I got a lot of pushback, not that it was super negative, it was more like, 'Why aren't you showing all of our clubs and skyscrapers? Why are you showing these remote towns?' and I was like, "Because this is Africa. Africa is skyscrapers and remote villages and we should be proud of all of that." I think some of the students were kind of just conscious of the stereotype and only wanted to show that part. Like you can have the mud hut and the traditional jewelry but listen if you want to go to the club, you can. That's how the culture is. It was a super interesting discourse to have and it was like, 'Why would you leave America to do this?' You're not going there with a voyeuristic, "us vs. them" agenda, which I think is a wrong approach others have utilized over and over again. I really didn't want it to feel like it was coming from a third person or a person looking in. I wanted it to feel like it was coming from an African, looking at ourselves, talking to each other and showcasing what we want out there because these are our storiesnot overly optimistic or pessimistic, just how it is. What's your hope for people who are watching? I learned that people really don't know history and don't know anything about Africa. I'll tell people about it, like when I was shooting, I would tell colleagues and they would be like, "Okay, 'Seun's going to Africa, again." It was a thing and it was very like, "I don't really know what you're doing or what's going to be there or what would be interesting." When I came back to show people what I found, they were like, "Whoa, I never expected that I would see something like this, coming from an African." I really just don't think a lot of people know that Africa has thousands of languages, ethnic groups, citiesreally, this evolutionary culture, which is what I am trying to change by calling attention to it all. Otherwise, it's not on a lot of people's radar. "Soju, [pronounced "show-ju"] means 'represent'...'to cultivate,' which I really thought was awesome because that's what I wanted to do: represent Africa." Can you tell me where the name "SOJU" comes from? It's pronounced "show-ju," and it's an old-fashioned word, which I like that no one uses it anymore and it means "represent." It also means "to cultivate," which I really thought was awesome because that's what I wanted to do: represent Africa. You said you're planning on going to other countries, can you tell me what you're hoping to see and learn about? There's different facets to it that I am planning. I just got back from filming an episode in Spain and Portugal this summer with some African feminists that are living in Spain. I want to build a community around it, starting with Nigeria this November, I've been planning a separate event apart from SOJU called UNICON to support the creative industry in Nigeria but in the sense of business skills and legal foundations because there is not a lot of structure when it comes to distributing and copywriting and owning our content, so that we can export it. I'm co-hosting with Collective Industry Conventions Africa [CICA], which is a collective of animation and creative publishing houses. What we're trying to do, is use that foundation that has existed for ten years and help them build businesses and introduce them to stakeholders so we can start building more of a creative industry in Nigeria so that people can actually have careers from it. I have so many countries and ideas in my head right now, so I'm looking for funding to do that. But in the meantime, I'm working on the Spain episode and trying to build this platform for creatives in Africa. Which eventually in different countries, we can have a good scene where people can actually see original African content, created by Africans, and the best part: it can be shared with the world. Learn more about UNICON, a platform Babalola made to build creative and business skills for Nigerians. Their event in Lagos, Nigeria's largest city is on November 17. Learn more about how to register, or even to donate to their fundraiser. Follow SOJU @sojuafrica. Photography: Oluwaseun Babalola When Qualcomm started filing patent infringement actions against Apple (and, by practical extension, Intel) in Mannheim and Munich last year, it hoped to gain leverage through injunctive relief over non-standard-essential patents in the largest EU economy. In February, Qualcomm's German counsel exuded confidence and predicted an injunction by the summer. Summer is gone, and based on where things stand after all the hearings and trials held so far (up to yesterday's Mannheim trial) Qualcomm's next chance to make serious headway against Apple in Germany may not even come until next spring or summer. At yesterday's Qualcomm vs. Apple trial in Mannheim, the patent at issue was #EP3036768 titled "layout construction for addressing electromigration." Presiding Judge Dr. Holger Kircher noted due to technicalities that Qualcomm's patent may not be patentable because Qualcomm kept changing the claims in response to prior art presented by Apple's legal team. Qualcomm wasn't happy on that point and this will be revisited at a hearing scheduled for February 2019. At one point Judge Dr. Kircher reportedly told Qualcomm that the way they're now trying to defend a narrowed patent claim that is tantamount to "cherry picking." The three judge panel was further concerned that the imported and newly-created claim limitations through which Qualcomm seeks to differentiate its claimed invention from the prior art are "devoid of technical substance." Ouch. The bottom line for Florian Mueller of FOSS Patents following this case intently is that "Qualcomm's patentability theory fails if one assumes that a person of ordinary skill in the art would simply know that orthogonal and parallel arrangements are viable alternatives." Mueller further notes that "What is undoubtedly creative, inventive and potentially innovative here is how Qualcomm's lawyers created this unique blend of claims, including claims that apparently were never meant to be combined with each other in the first place. However, the court's concern is about a lack of technical substance." The interesting twist comes when Mueller notes: 'Why is Qualcomm having such problems with its patents-in-suit? One common characteristic is that they're fairly recent patents. The younger a patent is, the more prior art, and the greater the potential for prior-use rights." Mueller has a lot more to say about the Qualcomm-Apple battle, but unless you're in the legal profession, you're going to have Mueller's analysis and thinking process go over your head. If you're in the legal profession then by all means check out Mueller's full report here. About Comments: Patently Apple reserves the right to post, dismiss or edit comments. Those using abusive language or negative behavior will result in being blacklisted on Disqus. Karl Brandt, Hitler's personal physician and Major General Reich Commissioner for Health and Sanitation, was one of 15 defendants found guilty of war crimes at the "Doctors Trial." He was later executed. AFAG welcomes the indication by the Bank of Ghana to turn its attention to Savings and Loans Companies (SLCs) in its efforts to clean up the financial sector. However, AFAG believes that it is vital for the BoG not to follow through with the SLCs while fallouts and unintended consequences of the commercial banking reforms have not been addressed. As of now, the uncertainty and chaos the reform has naturally created are yet to settle. Banks have reduced lending and financial services in some cases, are calling in loans. Furthermore, due to uncertainties and curtailing of loans, the SLCs/MFIs are now mainly holding the forth in supporting many businesses. It is therefore prudent for the BoG to wrap up the issues of the banks before bashing into the lower sectors. Any mistake would bring much of the economy to its knees. This is more critical when we take into consideration the fact that about 80% of SMEs are funded through them with these SMEs creating about 80% of jobs in the country. With unemployment so high with neither lasting solution nor concrete plans to remedy in place, AFAG would have thought the BoG would be circumspect, but that is not the case. The BoG is so enamoured with its statutory powers as to listen to alternative voices. The BoG front page message on the BFT last week;" Savings and Loans Companies are next" was most reckless and irresponsible. It connotes a notion of "destruction" rather than "reforms." AFAG holds the view that the earliest time for any direct actions on the operations of SLCs should be around June 2019 by which time the currents dust and uncertainty in the financial space might have settled. After that, the BoG should take a position of "common-sense-approach" in the clean up instead of its current Rambo style with which it approached the banks. Another point is that the governor, Dr Addison must show maturity and refrain from media commentary. He penchant for media attention and intertwining such critical reforms stages in public speeches is unnecessary. The reforms should be carried out within the offices of the various institutions and not at front pages and online portals of media houses. The unintended consequences of the crisis seem to be out of the consideration of the Central Bank. Unemployment is on the rise as a result of capital crunch. The staff of formers banks are arbitrarily sacked without due consideration for settlement to the extent that former manager of UT is now a kebab seller. Additionally, existing banks are reducing staff strength in even critical areas to meet the minimum deposit. Panic withdrawal is forcing many of the financial institutions to go under. Hitherto sound institutions are all going under the pressure of uncertainty which has led to massive withdrawals. AFAG believed that the central bank set out to reform the banks and not crush them. What is happening is to the contrary. It is crucial for the BoG to approach the reforms with a human face, using basic commonsense approach. Ghana is more significant than anyone's ego. The Central Bank must engender confidence and further take critical actions in the sector to boost deposits. According to the Central Bank, deposits constitute 62.5% of the banking industry assets. This points to a single fact that deposits constitute the lifeline of commercial banks in Ghana. It comes as a surprise to AFAG that the BoG sleep while customers continue to withdraw their deposits at an alarming rate. Some reports put the withdrawal rate at 17%. It is reported that Unibank has its deposit portfolio reduced from GH500 million to a current paltry sum of GHC100 million Ghana Cedis. What is the Central Bank undertaking to address the lack of confidence in the banking sector? Is the Central Bank only interested in bailouts and make infamous headlines for collapsing banks? AFAG strongly urges the BoG to demonstrate the utmost maturity, and circumspection in carrying out the overall, not-necessary-at this time, financial sector reforms. Concerning the Savings and Loans reforms, there is a clear indication that the BoG has begun on the wrong foot. Ghana first! Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. The Akufo-Addo led New Patriotic Party (NPP) seems to be doing something right with regards to the paradigm shift it has introduced into Ghanas educational system which has attracted many foreign Universities who have expressed interest to have cultural and educational exchanges with the country. This was manifested when the Registrar of the Scholarship Secretariat, Kingsley Agyemang led a delegation to sign a Memoranda of Understanding with Koc University in Turkey. The MoU signed include Masters with Thesis, Masters without Thesis and PHD. Koc University is a private non-profit comprehensive research university that offers a world class educational experience in Istanbul, Turkey. It is the highest ranking university in Turkey based on Times Higher Education rankings 2018. It is also ranked the 8th best in Europe. The Registrar, Kingsley Agyemang, assured staff of Koc University that records over the years had proven that students from Ghana, who are studying on various scholarships across the world excel in their various fields and for that matter they can be assured of the best brains from Ghana. Throwing more light on the intended purpose for which the Secretariat was established, Mr Agyemang said it was purposely established to fill the human capital deficit after the exit of the colonial masters. Mr Agyemang said since then the Secretariat has discharged its mandate effectively and efficiently. Over the years, we have trained Ghanaians all over the world, he said, adding that students from Ghana studying on government t scholarships across the various campuses always excel. He assured authorities of Koc University that he can vouch that any Ghanaian student brought to study at the university will not disappoint. I can assure you that any student we bring here has the right frame of mind, the mindset, the agility to study, he assured authorities of the University. According to him, the Secretariat was fascinated by the MoU signed by the two institutions because of a number of reasons including the decision of the government to convert polytechnics into technical universities as well as diploma awarding colleges of education into degree awarding ones. Another reason, he cited, is the fact that the National Accreditation Board has urged all University lecturers to be at least PHD holders before they can teach in the Universities. What this means is that we then have to get more individuals to get the PHD so we are able to provide the requisite number to meet the demands. This is what the Secretariat seek to do, he stressed. The MoU signed with the Turkish University follows similar MoUs that have been signed with other institutions in the United Kingdom, United States of America, South Korea, Canada, among others. The scholarship packages ranges from 50 per cent fully funded to a 100 per cent fully funded by the awarding institutions with the Ghana scholarship Secretariat as the coordinating agency. Making some remarks after signing the MoU, Mr Agyemang said he had no doubt that Ghanaian students who will be fortunate to have the opportunity to study in the foreign universities will raise the flag of Ghana high whilst firmly assuring that the best students will be selected. For a state like a Ghana to sponsor a student, then the student must be of high quality, he indicated. President and Rector of Koc University, Professor Dr Umran S. Inan on his part, said looking at Ghanas credentials in terms of education, he had no doubt about the competence of Ghanaian students and that his institution was more than willing to partner with Ghana. The Ghanaian ambassador to Turkey, Salma Frances Mancell-Egala, noted that she was elated that Ghana was the first country in Africa to sign such an MOU with the best university in Turkey. Also included in the Ghanaian delegation was the deputy Registrar of the Secretariat, Lydia Darko Acheampong. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Popular Nigerian lawmaker, Patrick Obahiagbon, pictured above kneeling as he begged Edo state APC members to vote for him so he can be the party's flagbearer in the Edo South Senatorial district election. Journalist, Ena Ofugara,who shared the photo online, wrote; ''Barrister "Igodomigodo" Obahiagbon, the grandiloquent and highfalutin former legislator finds to his chagrin, discomfiture, mortification, peevishness and spleen that he must put aside his manhood, masculinity, machismo, virility and BROCUS and like a bingo that ate his masters food, he finds he must kowtow, grovel, beseech, wheedle, brown-nose, crawl, creep, cower, snivel and prostrate to be allowed back in the house. This is a man that strut like a colossus as he insulted Jonathan and his wife in that era that seems so long ago when there was honour in expressing personal opinions and making it flowery like Obahiagbon then when he beats his chest and says "I am conversant with the utilitarian purposes to which the gavel and the mace are deployed within the existential construction of pragmatic and routine legislative rendezvous. Suffice to say that I can pontificate ad-infinitum ..." Today all he can say is "la wo wo. Please. I beg. Sorry for me" Source: lindaikejisblog Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Some leading members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) attempted to fight at a funeral event in Kumasi on Sunday. Reportedly, the unpleasant incident happened on the dais where top dignitaries, including former President John Dramani Mahama and others were seated at the Central Mosque in Kumasi. The occasion was the final funeral rites of the late Gonja Chief of Kumasi, Alhaji Abdulai Mumin Ayayie, who passed away recently due to sickness. He was bedridden prior to his death. Scores of military men that were brought to the venue of the funeral to provide security did a yeoman job as they rose to the occasion by using their strength to separate the two feuding factions. The funeral ceremony of the late chief was going on peacefully until it reached the turn of Alidu Seidu, the MCE for Asokore Mampong, to announce the NPPs donation to the bereaved family. The horde of NDC supporters that were present at the funeral venue quickly started to make excessive noise, which prevented Alidu Seidu from delivering his address to the chagrin of the NPP delegation. The NDC supporters, who had then turned the funeral into a political rally started to chant in the Hausa language that hardship was swallowing Ghana so ex-President Mahama should come and save them. The chanting of Mr. Mahamas name by the NDC supporters continued for some minutes as Alidu Seidu, who was then holding one of the microphones, watched them from the dais helplessly. At a point, the weird behaviour of the NDC supporters got Alhaji Abouba, the Manhyia South Organizer of the NPP infuriated, so he (Abouba) rushed to the dais to personally restore order. Alhaji Abouba then tried in vain to snatch another microphone, which was in the hands of the MP for Asawase, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, who was also standing on the other side of the dais. Alhaji Abouba, who was then brimming with rage, was then seen exchanging hot words with the NDC Asawase lawmaker right in the presence of ex-President Mahama and other dignitaries. Right from that point, supporters of the NDC and NPP, who clearly were angry, were also seen pushing each other amid threats from both groups as Mr. Mahama and the other dignitaries watched. Sensing danger, the military men quickly rushed and used their amazing energy and strength to separate the then angry-looking NDC and NPP supporters, thereby restoring sanity and orderliness to the place. Speaking with DAILY GUIDE later on, Alhaji Abouba, the Manhyia South NPP Organizer, alleged that Mubarak Muntaka was the one who instigated the NDC supporters to cause troubles at the event. When calm was eventually restored by the soldiers, Mr. Mahama and his delegation left the funeral grounds. The NPP delegation then got the chance to deliver their message. Source: Daily Guide Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video #stocks KOSPI may face selling pressure next week on inflation risk South Korea's benchmark stock index is likely to come under selling pressure next week as uncertainties from the fast-growing inflation continue to fan expectations of a quick rate... #football Captain Son Heung-min hoping for strong finish to World Cup qualifying campaign Undefeated after five out of 10 matches in the final World Cup qualifying round, South Korea looked to be in a prime position to punch their ticket to the big tournament next year.... The Minister of State in charge of Tertiary Education, Professor Kwesi Yankah, has advised former President John Mahama to desist from drawing him into his campaign on education. According to him, any process to reform the New Patriotic Partys (NPP) flagship education programme, the free Senior High School (SHS) policy would compromise the gains made so far. His comment comes on the back of statements made by Mr Mahama at a rally in Cape Coast that he would review the policy should he be elected president in 2020. According to a statement signed by the Head of Public Relations of the Ministry of Education, Mr Ekow Vincent Assafuah, Mr Mahama, at the rally stated that the policy was ill-timed, and that problems facing the policy was due to lack of expert and stakeholder consultation. According to the statement, Mr Mahama noted that when elected president in 2020, he would hold a national stakeholders conference where he would panel educationists such as Prof Yankah to deliberate on the policy. The statement, however, indicated that Prof Yankah, as a Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, has been an integral part of the development of the free SHS programme, and that, he is fully aligned with its direction under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. It should be noted that such stakeholder forums were held with the teacher unions, National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, GES Council, head of faith based organisations, all heads of SHS, Civil Society Organisations etc. They were invited to round table discussions and their views were solicited for the double track system, the statement said. In the very unlikely event of the NDC coming into office in January 2021, Prof Yankah would therefore not be interested in being part of any process that seeks to compromise the gains achieved by the free SHS policy, it added. Source: Graphic.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Joseph Kobina Ade Coker has emphatically stated he is not dishonoring Kojo Bonsu contention to contest NDCs flagbeareship race, just because his candidate is part of the race. Rather, even though there is no school for someone aspiring to be president, he [Kojo Bonsu] is nowhere near presidency position. .In my capacity as member of the NDC, my capacity as Ade Coker and as Regional Chairman, I can foresee and determine per my criteria that Kojo Bonsu does not befit the journey he wants to start and will not get anywhere. He should maintain his political stability and forget joining the flagbearership race for he will get zero, he said. Ade Coker, who was contributing in a panel discussion on UTVs Adekye Nsroma, cautioned the former KMA boss not to think and perceive Ghana as a small country under a sea which has no future. Though he concedes Kojo Bonsu has the right to run for political office due to the party's democratic background, that of flagbearer is way above his credentials. We are not talking about a small country under Madagascar somewhere that will disappear in no time but we are talking about Kwame Nkrumahs Ghana, he added. To Mr Ade Coker, the flagbearer-aspirant's decision was borne out of sour grape. I have known Kojo Bonsu for over thirty years and to be honest he does not have what it takes to manage Kwame Nkrumahs Ghana....he should get it at the back of his mind that decisions taken in an angry mood does not make one succeed ...he [Kojo Boadu] claims to have been left out to be member of former President Mahamas Campaign team, because he wanted to be the manager of the Campaign Team. This is even too childish on his part, the NDC Greater Accra Regional Chairman stated. Source: Elizabeth Semiheva Bedi/Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video President John Dramani Mahama is urging President Nana Akufo-Addo to dream big in order to solve the numerous challenges facing the country. Mr Mahama says it takes a dreamer to be able to come out with concrete things and the President should never shy away from dreaming, adding that one can never make progress without dreaming. Referencing Nana Akufo-Addos recent comment that Mr Mahama was "a dreamer" for calling for a review of the free SHS programme in order to address the poor implementation of the programme, former President Mahama said it takes a dreamer to create nations. Addressing delegates of the National Democratic Congress in the Tamale South constituency, on Tuesday as part of his five-day tour of the Northern Region, Mr Mahama further said "maybe they don't dream that is why Ghanaians are not seeing any progress now. "I travelled around the world and saw decent airports but when you come to Kotoka [International] Airport Terminal Two, it was so disappointing. And so it takes a dreamer to dream about projects like Terminal Three and I dreamt it and I said Ghana can have an airport like that," Mr Mahama said. The former President is therefore urging Nana Akufo-Addo to dream big for the progress of the country. Touching on the NDCs achievements in government, Mr Mahama entreated members and supporters of the party to be proud of its record in government. He particularly mentioned the NDCs record investment in healthcare, education, expanding access to potable water and road infrastructure across the country. Former President Mahama was concerned about the NPP governments failure to complete development projects started during his administration, emphasising that it denies the people the intended benefits of those projects. Mr Mahama wondered why a government that called itself competent should take almost two years to audit simple projects. He was optimistic that the NDC will win the 2020 elections to enable it continue its work and reduce the high cost of living as well as provide jobs for the people. Former President John Dramani Mahama has started his re-election campaign tour. He is currently in the Northern Region after his four days tour to Central Region to commence his nationwide campaign to seek a re-election to lead his party, the National Democratic Congress A total of 11 aspirants have so far declared their interest to lead the NDC. Prof Joshua Alabi, Mr Ekwow Spio Garbrah and Mr Alban Bagbin are the ones leading the opposition arguing that Mr. Mahama does not deserve a second chance on the ticket of the NDC. The NDC as part of the re-organisation for Election 2020 was waiting to elect new national officers before the presidential primary. Source: Isaac kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Ovation Magazine publisher, Dele Momodu in his weekly coulmn, 'Pendulem' wrote about the just concluded Osun State governorship election saying what transpired 'was not a Gubernatorial, but prelude to Presidential election' In the article, Dele Momodu also said, 'let me say with every emphasis I can muster, no candidate from the core North can compete against, and defeat, Buhari simply on the basis that they come from the core North. It is practically impossible'. See the full piece below... Fellow Nigerians, lets not mince words today and go straight to the crux of the matter. What transpired in the State of Osun, as my dear Brother, the Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, loves to refer to our State, was not a Gubernatorial, but prelude to Presidential election. The interest and resources galvanised for that election demonstrated that it was a civil war and not a civilised election. The election was seen and executed as a referendum on the tenure of President Muhammadu Buhari and its wobbly government. While the ruling party appeared determined, or maybe desperate is the appropriate word, to win, the main opposition party looked jazzed and disinterested. But for the merciful interventions of former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and the President of the Nigerian Senate, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, the PDP candidate, Senator Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke, could as well have been a virtual orphan. It was that bad. What manner of opposition would sit at home, arms akimbo, after seeing how the President, Vice President, Governors, Ministers and party Chieftains all invaded, and flooded, Osun as if their lives depended on it? I fail to understand how PDP can parade over a dozen Presidential aspirants yet only few of them are showing irrevocable commitment to serious party matters while the rest are only pursuing personal agenda. Adeleke was just lucky to be blessed with a family that had the means to fund his campaign and in particular a megastar, David Adeleke (aka Davido), who unleashed his monstrous talent on the campaign. The ways of politicians are certainly not the ways of ordinary mortals. I could not believe how they turned Osun into a theatre of war because of a few thousand votes. I thought that, by now, Nigeria had passed this disgraceful and embarrassing stage. I have no doubt that APC merely used the elections in Ekiti and Osun as dress rehearsals of what to expect in next years general elections. A former President had told me months ago that we should not expect President Buhari to lose the election and quit quietly like President Goodluck Jonathan did in 2015, but I disagreed most vehemently. Thank God, we did not take a bet because with what happened in Osun, in particular, I dont see the APC apparatchik agreeing to vacate power without a truculent fight. Many people, Nigerians and non-Nigerians have come to the incontrovertible conclusion that what we currently have is an army of occupation and we should accept our fate with equanimity. But no country can afford not to have a virile opposition. This is why it is sad and tragic that those who were in opposition only yesterday are perpetrating the same unfortunate acts we collectively rejected and dismissed not too long ago. It is also a shame that political parties have become over-proliferated in our dear beloved country. This has made it difficult for us to have a unified resolve to challenge what may ultimately turn into a Gestapo and most oppressive civilian regime. The PDP that should fight back stoutly to give a good fight is already gasping for breath because of multiple ambitions of individuals who may choose to turn coat at the drop of a hat. From the multitude of PDP aspirants and even the cacophony of permutations about who can challenge Buhari to a duel, it is becoming clear, to discerning minds, that there are only two, possibly three serious challengers and no more. Of these three, two currently stand tall. One is old and the other is young. It seems patently obvious, from the recent shenanigans that we have seen, that President Buhari and his people would do everything humanly possible to avoid confronting either of these two candidates at the polls next year. Moving on, let me say with every emphasis I can muster, no candidate from the core North can compete against, and defeat, Buhari simply on the basis that they come from the core North. It is practically impossible. The jejune argument that PDP should pick a candidate who can divide the core Northern votes is either a joke carried too far or a deliberate decision to hand power back to the incumbent on a platter of gold. What the PDP needs urgently is a candidate who can explode its votes in the entire South and the North Central. I do not hereby advocate for any candidate. I make my thesis only on the basis of empirical analysis. Buhari lost elections three consecutive times because he couldnt saunter across those zones. If you doubt my assertion, lets examine the figures, in practical terms. In 1999, PDP scored 4,226,330 in South South while ANPP/AD recorded 1,205,087. PDP 2,307,712 in South East and ANPP/AD 978,997. PDP 1,092,216 in South West and ANPP/AD 4,366,993. This was Chief Olu Falae versus General Olusegun Obasanjo. The Yoruba can mobilise humongous votes when they feel they have their own in the race. The sentiment was in favour of Falae. PDP 3,675,027 in North Central and ANPP/AD 1,461,840. PDP 3,552,354 in North East and ANPP/AD 1,412,426. PDP 3,887,536 in North West and ANPP/AD 1,684,934. In 2003, PDP jumped to 6,953,679 in South South and ANPP 365,161. PDP 3,161,150 in South East and ANPP 253,079. PDP 5,031,288 in South West and ANPP 195,024. PDP 3,257,956 in North Central and ANPP 1,993,705. PDP 2,941,208 in North East and ANPP 3,694,367. PDP 2,764,846 in North West and ANPP 6,453,437. This was the year Buhari started contesting the Presidency. On this occasion he contested on the platform of ANPP. In 2007, PDP had 6,118,608 in South South and ANPP 365,161. PDP 4,985,246 in South East and ANPP 253,079. PDP 2,836,417 in South West and ANPP 195,024. PDP 3,376,570 in North Central and ANPP 1,744575. PDP 1,832,651 in North East and ANPP 3,660919. PDP 3,466,924 in North West and ANPP 6,453,437. Buhari again contested as ANPP Presidential candidate. In 2011, PDP recorded 6,118,608 in South South and ANPP 49,978. PDP 4,985,246 in South East and ANPP 20,335. PDP 2,786,417 in South West and ANPP 321,609. PDP 3,123,126 in North Central and ANPP 1,612,999. PDP 1,832,622 in North East and ANPP 3,624,910. PDP 3,395,724 in North West and ANPP 6,453,437. Buhari was again the flagbearer of the ANPP. In 2015, PDP secured 4,714,725 in South South and APC 418,590. PDP 2,464,906 in South East and APC 198,248. PDP 1,821,416 in South West and APC 2,433,193. PDP 1,715,818 in North Central and APC 2,411,013. PDP 796,580 in North East and APC 2,848,678. PDP 1,339,709 in North West and APC 7,115,199. The import of these figures is that whosoever can checkmate Buhari from the Middlebelt downwards would always defeat Buhari. This does not necessarily mean such a candidate should come from these regions, but it would be ideal. A candidate with cross-over appeal from the North East and North West would also do well provided he does not believe that his place of origin means he should concentrate his effort in that region or adjunct region. PDP should forget the pipe dream of competing favourably against Buhari in the North East and North West. He has consistently won overwhelming in those two regions. However, if President Buhari can be restricted to those two zones while opposition locks down the other four zones of the country, then the prospects of the opposition PDP resoundingly beating the APC candidate becomes much brighter. PDP or any intelligent party must apply Isaac Newtons third Law of Motion: actions and reactions are always equal and opposite. Buhari would be 76, his opponent must be the opposite by being much younger. 70 percent of the electorate are under the age of 45. Opposition requires a candidate who can readily galvanise a multitude of first-time voters. Nigeria is long overdue for a candidate in the mould of Barack Obama, an energetic and cosmopolitan leader. Politics as a game of numbers must be approached meticulously. Buhari has stupendous State appurtenances and resources to deploy, his opponent must have access to similar armoury or have sufficient wherewithal to match the substantial resources of State and not be a scavenger in search of morale, audacity and finance. Im not sure about what the third force can produce. I have expressed this publicly and privately. There are those like my dear friend, former Governor Donald Duke, Frank Nweke Jnr. and others who feel a third force can fly next year. I sincerely doubt this. Indeed, I would like to dismiss this as mere wishful thinking. There may also be a fourth force, the Take Back Nigeria Movement being propelled by Omoyele Sowore who has worked extremely hard across Nigeria, but I believe he still has a lot of distance to cover. The reason is simple. He would have gone very far if he could muster the support of other younger candidates. Same with Fela Durotoye, Kingsley Moghalu and others. I truly wish there could be a consensus candidate, but alas! Where do we go from here, realistically? I think the toughest opposition can still come from PDP if it can rescue itself from certain interests and manage to pick a kamikaze candidate who is not docile and who is ready to fight all the way with everything at his disposal. No meek or lily-livered gentleman can fight and conquer Buhari next year. The lesson to pick from Osun, while litigation processes are being cooked, is that the next Presidential election is not going to be the stuff of conventional warfare. A serious opposition must prepare for the use of ballistic and anti-ballistic missiles. This is the reality of what to expect. Source: lindaikejisblog Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video View this post on Instagram My flight! So this happened to us! Thank you Jesus #Deltapleasesitup Authorities in Las Vegas have reopened an investigation into the claim that Cristiano Ronaldo raped a model in a hotel room nine years ago. 34-year-old teacher Kathryn Mayorga, who was an aspiring model at the time of the alleged assault, claims Ronaldo raped her in a bathroom at the Palms Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas in the early hours of June 13, 2009. This comes after Lawyers for the Portuguese star said on Friday that they would sue German magazine, Der Spiegel, after it published 'blatantly illegal' accusations by an American woman who alleges she was raped by the Juventus star nine years ago. Ronaldo's lawyer Christian Schertz said in a statement that the report was 'an inadmissible reporting of suspicions in the area of privacy', and that he would seek legal redress for his client from the magazine In the statement issued the Juventus striker denied Mayorgas rape claim saying they would sue for compensation for moral damages. His solicitor, Professor Dr. Christian Schertz said: The reporting in SPIEGEL is blatantly illegal. It violates the personal rights of our client Cristiano Ronaldo in an exceptionally serious way. This is an inadmissible reporting of suspicions in the area of privacy. It would therefore already be unlawful to reproduce this reporting. We have been instructed to immediately assert all existing claims under press law against SPIEGEL, in particular, compensation for moral damages in an amount corresponding to the gravity of the infringement, which is probably one of the most serious violations of personal rights in recent years. The ex-Manchester United, 33, also spoke out in a video on Instagram just hours after her lawyer filed court documents about the case. Grinning into the camera, he said: 'No, no, no, no, no. What they said today? Fake, fake news.' 'They want to promote [themselves by using] my name. It's normal. They want to be famous to say my name, but it is part of the job. I am a happy man and all good.' On Monday, Police announced the case was re-opened. Source: dailymail.co.uk Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Transport Minister Marc Garneau speaks to reporters during a press conference to discuss the tabling of the fall 2018 reports of the Environment Commissioner on Parliament Hill, in Ottawa on Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick Left image: Pioneer 11, the first robotic space probe to encounter Saturn, took two pictures of the ringed planet on August 29, 1979. Those images were then combined and synthesized to produce the image you see here. Pioneer 11 launched on April 6, 1973, with a mission to study the solar wind, cosmic rays, the asteroid belt, and the environment around Jupiter and Saturn. It successfully completed its mission and transmitted its last bit of science data to NASA in 1995. Now, it continues on its trajectory into interstellar space following after its predecessor, Pioneer 10. Led by Carl Sagan, NASA approved a project to affix a message to the exteriors of the Pioneer 10 and 11 spacecraft: the famed Pioneer Plaques. These golden plaques serve as a greeting and invitation for extraterrestrial beings who may eventually come across these spacecraft as they sail through their solar systems. Right image: The Cassini spacecraft snapped this beautiful photo of Saturn on January 2, 2010. This natural-color view is a composite of images taken in visible light with the spacecraft's camera. The image was then processed to brighten the rings on the night side of the planet to more clearly reveal their features. On Sept. 15, 2017, the Cassini spacecraft plunged into Saturns atmosphere, breaking up and becoming part of the planet itself. This self-destructive maneuver was used to keep the spacecraft from contaminating Saturns moons, some of which seem to harbor ingredients for life. The Cassini mission is a cooperative project of NASA, ESA (the European Space Agency), and the Italian Space Agency all of which are plowing through the mountain of data that was collected during the spacecrafts 13 years in orbit around the planet. MBARARA Bishop Stuart University (BSU) has started the construction of a Shs3 billion nursing home at Ruharo in Kamukuzi, Mbarara town as it propels up to having a University teaching hospital. During the handover of the construction site to Byebeki technical services on Tuesday, the University Academic registrar Abdon Ariho Rutega who represented the Vice-chancellor Professor Mauda Kamatenesi said the construction of this home gives the university the opportunity to increase their intake in nursing courses and is in line with their future plan of having a university teaching hospital. Right now we have over 200 students taking up nursing courses but we could be having more if it were not for limited infrastructure, with this new home we will be able to enroll more students and be able to bring in other courses like medicine as plan to have a teaching hospital here, said Rutega. He said the new nursing home which is expected to be completed in two years will among others house three offices, six classrooms, a demonstration lab, ICT center and sanitary area. According to Rutega, they only contracted labour at Shs 264 million and University will buy materials and other requirements with the whole project expected to cost Shs 3 billion. Recheal Luwaga, the acting head of the nursing school at this university said lack of space both for teaching and practicals has been their big challenge. We are operating under very limited space and the numbers have increased. We have over 200 students and our lecturer rooms accommodate between 50-70 students, demonstration rooms can only accommodate 15 students, this is a big challenge. We happy that the university has realized our plight and came to our rescue, said Ms Luwaga. Posiano Byaruhanga the director Byebeki Technical services and the contractor said that he is ready to deliver quality work within a specified time if the University avails materials timely. Bishop Stuart University Nursing School currently shares space with Ruharo Mission hospital. Related MBARARA- Following the numerous attempts by some of Mbarara Municipal officials led by town clerk Edward Lwanga to sell some of the prime plots belonging to Mbarara Municipality, the Inspector General of Government, Irene Mulyagonja wrote to Lwanga ordering him to cease any subdivision, registration and sell of any plots. Sources at the municipal council have revealed to this website that the move to sell some of the plots like Kakyera land has been orchestrated and championed by Lwanga and the executive committee led by Mayor Robert Kakyebezi. According to the report of the executive committee to the council on August 30, 2018, sought approval from council to sell Kakyera land and other parcels of land which are at risk of being sold off irregularly to buy garbage trucks; which a section of councilors have vehemently rejected. This prompted one of the whistleblowers led by Michael Tusiime the Mbarara Municipality Member of Parliament to petition the inspectorate of government seeking for its immediate intervention. In his letter to the auditor general through the permanent secretary and secretary to the Treasury Keith Muhakanizi, Tumusiimeasked to have a special audit of Mbarara Municipal council operations and service delivery activities from FY 2014/2015 to date. According to the letter from F. Mariam Wangadya, the deputy Inspector General of Government dated August 21, 2018, highlights the sum of prime plots which are being irregularly disposed off by municipal officials. These plots include Municipal land at Kakyera, Rwobuyenje cementry land opposite Makenke Army Barracks, Plot 2-4, volume 3448 folio 18, Mbaguta street, Plot 52-56 vol. 607, folio 15 Markert Square Kakoba Division, Plot 18 Kashari block 39 Vol.1347 folio 20 Kaburangire in Kakika division, Plot 13A vol.607 folio 17 Muti drive Kamukuzi division, Plot 79-95 Vol. 3716 folio 1 fort portal road in Kamukuzi division, Plot 22E-22N Vol. 2786 folio 25 Mbaguta street in Kakoba division, plot 40 Vol. 607 folio 6 lower circular Kamukuzi division, plot 12 Vol 684 folio 6 galt road in Kamukuzi, plot 6-10 Vol. 3596 Folio17 Kitunzi road in Kamukuzi division, Plot7A Stanely road Kamukuzi division, Plot 7B Stanely road, Plot 2 market close Kakoba division, Plot 2 Kijungu link 5 kakoba division, plot 4 kijungu road Kakoba division. The letter says the inspectorate of government has commenced investigations into complaint as its enshrined in the 230(2) of the constitution of Uganda and section 14(6) of the Inspectorate of the government Act 2002. This is now to order you to cease any on-going activity pertaining to the subdivision, allocation and registration of the above mentioned municipal land until such a time when you receive such orders from this office on the same matter by copy of this letter, the chairman district land board Mbarara and the head of ministry lands, housing and Urban development zonal office Mbarara are required to abide by this order, the order reads in part. Edward Lwanga confirmed receipt of the IGGs letter and that on Kakyera land told new vision that they wanted to sell part of the land to buy garbage trucks since the council has no sufficient trucks to collect garbage in town. In the same vain council meeting held last week, the speaker of Mbarara Municipality, Bonny Tashobya Karusya instituted an adhoc committee of nine councilors to investigate the alleged sell of municipal parcels of land and this committee is to give a report of the findings in one week. The members include led by Mugasi Naboth and Doreen Natamba as the vice chairperson, others are Robert Bushweta, Godfrey Kansime, Asimwe Ntengye, Betty Tigefera, Imelda Nyamwija, David Nahurira, and Imam Kagiko. Speaker Tashobya noted asked the members of investigate these matters with high level of independence, I expect you to come with a report in one week because these issues have made our municipality to turn into a laughing stock, because we have asked for the inventory of all land in Mbarara and this has not been given to us we dont know what they are hiding, but we are sure the truth will come out. We have learnt that prior to the formation of an Adhoc committee, councilors had moved to censor all members of the executive committee led by mayor Kakyebezi and his deputy but this was halted by the speaker saying that councilors should first wait for the report of the Adhoc committee. As the IGG also makes his own investigations for us as the council we also want to come up with our own investigations and whoever is found to have participated in the sale of any plot will be answerable Imam Kagiko, one of the councilors on the committee noted. Related KAMPALA The NRM vice chairperson for eastern Uganda, Capt Mike Mukula, has announced that he has relocated his aviation training school to Kenya, claiming that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has for the last three years refused to grant him an operational licence. Capt Mukula, who is a trained pilot, runs Uganda Aviation School, which was accredited by the National Council of Higher Education (NCHE) about three years. However, he says that for the last three years, CAA has refused to grant him an Air Operators Certificate (AOC). An AOC is an approval granted by the aviation authority to an aircraft operator to allow it to use aircraft for commercial purposes. This requires the operator to have personnel, assets and system in place to ensure the safety of its employees and the general public. I have finally taken a decision to relocate all our aircrafts to Kenya having been frustrated by @UgandaCAA to obtain an AOC. Kenya issued it in one week. This equipment has been on the ground for over three years fully maintained and paying parking fees, Capt Mukula wrote on his Twitter handle. In a follow-up telephone interview later on Wednesday morning, he accused CAA of incompetence and corruption. These people are corrupt, they lack competent engineers to evaluate us, and they just spend most of the time flying out of the country. Read the ICAO report on CAA Uganda which found them lacking in many areas, he said. Capt Mukula confirmed that it took him a month to get all the paperwork for the Kenya AOC licence, and only a week for it to be processed and cleared. We will now be taking our students to Kenya because the environment there is better. You ask yourself, why did it take the Kenyans just one week to clear us? They have the same standards (as CAA), they are all regulated by ICAO, he said. Capt Mukula also accused CAA of frustrating his plan of building the largest aviation training centre in East Africa. This, he said, has forced many Ugandan aviation students to move to South Africa and the United States. He warns that if the red tape is not addressed, it will be a major threat for the Uganda Airlines which is being revamped. However, Samuel Muneeza, the CAA director for Safety, Security and Economic Regulations, insisted that Mukulas school has failed to honour set agreements and regulations. CAA granted UAS a provisional license in June 2014, advising UAS to go into agreement with the East Africa Civil Aviation Academy (EACAA), but the company failed to provide that agreement and therefore could not utilize the license [to train cabin crew], Muneeza said. Mr Vianney Lugya, the CAA public relations manager, also hit back, saying Mukula has never applied for the AOS and that he only applied for an Air Aviation Training Organization Certificate for training cabin crew, whose minimum requirements he failed to meet. These are technical aviation licensing requirements. He is saying he got the Air Operators Certificate in Kenya in one week which is a naked lie because nowhere in the world do you can get this license in a week, he said in an interview. Related Gov. Jerry Brown on Sunday signed a bill making records of police misconduct across California public in certain cases, including when an officer has been found to have committed sexual assault while on duty. Senate Bill 1421, from Sen. Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley, allows the public to access records in cases where findings have been sustained against an officer for sexual assault, dishonesty, or causing death or great bodily injury, reports the San Francisco Examiner. "When incidents such as a police shooting occurs, the public has a right to know that there was a thorough investigation," Skinner said in a statement. "Without access to such records, communities can't hold our public safety agencies accountable." The legislation was just one of the bills that Brown signed to further police reform across the state. The governor also signed Assembly Bill 748, from Assemblymember Phil Ting, D-San Francisco, requiring the release of body-camera footage within 45 days of a critical incident such as a police shooting. "The Governor's signature on AB 748 signifies a strong commitment to police transparency in California," Ting said in a statement. "Public access to body-camera footage is necessary to boost confidence and rebuild trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve." A Winnipeg, Canada mayoral candidate says convicted criminals should pay for the policing demands they create, starting with impaired drivers. "If you get convicted, we bill you for the officer's time, the evidence bags, the paperwork, the breath tests. If you can afford a car, insurance, gas and get intoxicated, then you can afford the police car ride when you get convicted," said Tim Diack, a Winnipeg Police Service officer running for mayor. Diack said the billing process could be similar to patient billing for ambulance rides, which currently cost Winnipeggers up to $340 per trip, according to the Manitoba Government's website. Diack said police billing would eventually expand to other convicted offenses, with exemptions for low-income offenders, reports the Winnipeg Sun. The candidate said he didn't approach provincial or federal government officials to determine if their approval is required or if they'd provide it. Winnipeggers will elect their next mayor on Oct. 24. Patrolman James White, 35, and Cpl. Zach Moak, 31, were both taken to Kings Daughter's Medical Center, where they were pronounced dead. (Photo: Brookhaven PD) Marquis Flowers was out on bond when he was allegedly involved in the fatal shootings of two Brookhaven, MS, police officers early Saturday morning, reports the Clarion Ledger. Flowers, who was wounded either before or during the melee, is in custody but hospitalized. He has not been charged in the deaths of James White, 35, and Zach Moak, 31. While he is the only suspect in custody, according to Mississippi Department of Public Safety spokesman Warren Strain, others have been questioned about the shooting. But it appears Flowers should have been in custody before the shootings occurred. According to Mississippi Parole Board Chairman Steven Pickett, a failure to appear warrant was issued for Flowers in August when he didn't show up for a trial in Adams County. Flowers was sentenced in 2012 to eight counts of auto burglary and conspiracy and sentenced to concurrent sentences, Pickett said. In March 2017, Flowers had his parole revoked when the Natchez Police Department charged him with vehicle theft and felony fleeing. He was returned to community corrections in May and posted a $50,000 bond. It is from that point that it's unclear what happened to Flowers. Florida authorities say a teenager has been charged in the armed carjacking that resulted in the death of a police dog named Fang. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office confirms 17-year-old Jhamel Paskel is charged with shooting Fang, armed robbery, and kidnapping. Sheriff's Office Lt. Craig Waldrup said Monday that the teen admitted to his involvement in the incident, reports the Associated Press. Deputies say Paskel fled from the car on foot with K-9 Officer Matt Herrera and Fang in pursuit. Paskel then reportedly fatally wounded the 3-year-old German shepherd. NEW DELHI, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Air Works has signed an agreement with Satys group('Satys') to divest Air Livery, a subsidiary of Air Works providing After Sale Aircraft Finishing operations out of UK. The completion requirements concluded on 1st October, 2018. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/753843/Air_Works_Logo.jpg ) Under the transaction, Air Livery's entire UK operations and its assets will be transferred to Satys. Air Works will continue to provide Aircraft Finishing services to OEMs' and other Customers out of its French subsidiary 'Aero Technique Espace'(ATE). Satys is a French industrial group with strong presence in aircraft sealing and painting in Europe & ROW. D Anand Bhaskar, CEO, Air Works, said, "We will continue to focus, to grow our relationship and support to OEMs and Lessors across the globe. With India emerging as one of the fastest growing Aviation Market globally, the divestment is in sync with our decision to focus more on India operations and strengthen our market leadership here." He further added that, "Air Works believes that Satys has synergies and scale in Aircraft Painting that can further develop and nurture UK-based business." About Air Works Air Works is an India headquartered Global Aviation services provider, with strong India presence in Commercial & Private Aircraft MRO services. It has operations based out of France, Dubai, Ireland and USA, in Aircraft Finishing, Aircraft Management Services, Technical Asset Management services for Lessors and Safety rating in Private Jet & Drones services. For more details, visit: https://www.airworks.aero/ . Media Contact: Taru Prabhakar [email protected] +91-9899186223 Senior Manager Air Woks India (Engineering) Pvt. Ltd. SOURCE Air Works Frost & Sullivan's Best Practices Awards are presented each year to companies that are predicted to encourage significant growth in their industries, have identified emerging trends before they became a marketplace standard, and have created advanced technologies that will catalyze and transform industries in the near future. "Our Best Practices Awards are presented each year to companies that demonstrate top performance in areas such as market leadership, business strategy, product innovation, and customer value. Our recipients' achievements pave the way to drive significant industry growth while also setting trends before they become the market standard," said Art Robbins, President of Frost & Sullivan's Global Consulting Practice and Global Head of the Business and Financial Services Practice. Awarded companies included: 8x8 - 2018 North American Integrated CCaaS and UCaaS Competitive Strategy Innovation and Leadership Award Authentic8, Inc. 2018 Global Cloud Browser New Product Innovation Award Avaya 2018 Latin American Enterprise Communications Competitive Strategy Innovation and Leadership Award Biosensing Instrument 2018 North American Surface Plasmon Resonance New Product Innovation Award Brightcove 2018 Global Online Video Platforms Company of the Year Award Cisco Systems 2018 Global Network Access Control Market Leadership Award Conversa Health 2018 North American Patient Engagement Solutions Technology Leadership Award Flagship Biosciences 2018 Global AI-based Pathology Solutions in Immuno-oncology Technology Innovation Award Fortinet, Inc. 2018 Global Advanced Malware Sandbox Customer Value Leadership Award GE Automation and Control 2018 Global Edge Controls and Analytics Company of the Year Award GE Healthcare Partners 2018 Global Hospital Command Centers Visionary Innovation Leadership Award Infor 2018 Global EAM Software for Asset-Intensive and Discrete Industries Customer Value Leadership Award INTEGRA Biosciences 2018 Global Laboratory Pipetting Company of the Year Award MobileIron 2018 North American Enterprise Mobility Management Product Line Strategy Leadership Award NextInput, Inc. - 2018 North American MEMS Force Sensors for HMI Technology Innovation Award Noble Systems 2018 North American Workforce Engagement Management Gamification Solutions Customer Value Leadership Award Pain Care Labs 2017 North American Localized Pain Relief Therapy Technology Leadership Award Proteus Digital Health 2018 North American Digital Health New Product Innovation Award Signifyd 2018 North American E-commerce Guaranteed Fraud Protection Growth Excellence Leadership Award Silver Peak 2018 Global Software-defined WAN Competitive Strategy Innovation and Leadership Award Snap-On 2018 North American Technicians' Choice of Automotive Tools Product Line Strategy Leadership Award Synergis Software 2018 Global Engineering Information Management Customer Service Leadership Award TARA Biosystems 2018 North American Heart-on-a-Chip Technology Innovation Award Tenable 2018 Global Vulnerability Management Growth Excellence Leadership Award TMEIC 2018 Global Industrial Power Electronics Company of the Year Award Vectra 2018 North American IoT Cybersecurity Visionary Innovation Leadership Award VeEX Inc. 2018 Global Gigabit Ethernet Test Equipment Price/Performance Value Leadership Award Frost & Sullivan's Best Practices Awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. 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Contact: Samantha Park P: 210.247.2426 F: 210.348.1003 E: [email protected] Related Links http://www.frost.com SOURCE Frost & Sullivan MUMBAI, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumer marketing and financial services veteran Nimish Dwivedi's book 'Marketing Chronicles' has become a bestseller amongst marketing books on sites like Amazon India since its release in October 2017. The well-compiled book on consumer insights helps to understand the chronological evolution of consumer behaviour and related marketing innovations. The characterization of markets with marketing techniques in the book has found its appeal amongst MBA students and practitioners of marketing alike. (Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/752353/Nimish_Dwivedi.jpg ) Filled with concepts explained through real examples and cases, the book focuses on insights, ideas and informative observations. Written in an easy-to-read and engaging manner, the book covers a vast spectrum of marketing subjects ranging from branding concepts to unique media strategies to segmentation to the power of measurement and metrics. Vishwas Patel - Chairman of the Payments Council of India, Executive Director on the board of Infibeam Avenues Ltd. and Founder of CC Avenues -India's leading payment gateway, says, "This book is a must read for all marketing practitioners. It is very easy to complicate concepts but the challenge is to simplify them. Nimish has not only demystified concepts, but has also provided relevant and real examples to make this book a great read. He has also split the marketing domain into two landmark phases the pre-Smartphone era and the current post Smartphone era where all the rules of conventional marketing have changed." Dr. Parag Amin, Dean of Marketing at SIES College of Management Studies in Mumbai ,says, "I highly recommend this book to every marketer and to every student of sales and marketing. It provides deep insights into local and global marketing success stories in a simple and lucid manner. Being a part of the marketing faculty, I found this book very useful in terms of connecting theory with practice." Anaggh Desai - expert in digital and retail marketing, CEO Happipress, ex-CEO of Bombay Store and ex-MD, Damas, India says, "An insightful look at marketing over a span of 20 years by Nimish. This book is not only a useful chronicle but is also a breezy and fun read." 'Marketing Chronicles - A Compendium of Global and Local Marketing Insights from the Pre - Smartphone and Post - Smartphone Eras' is available at leading bookstores and on ecommerce sites like Amazon India for just Rs. 199. The Kindle version is available for just Rs. 99. About the Author: Nimish V. Dwivedi is a consumer marketing and financial services professional who has observed the changing and emerging landscape of marketing through living and working in Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, UAE and Vietnam, besides always observing India outside in. Having graduated with a marketing major from one of India's top business schools - Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, Nimish has had the privilege of working with and learning from some of the best marketing professionals in the industry. Starting his career fresh out of campus as an Executive Trainee at Asian Paints, Nimish has worked in senior leadership roles at Citibank, Standard Chartered, Paypal, Mashreq Bank and is currently the Business Director Cards and Payments at VP Bank - FE Credit based in Vietnam. Nimish's articles on marketing and strategy have been published in Asian Wall Street Journal, Business Standard, Business Line, Brand Equity and other leading publications. https://www.linkedin.com/in/nimish-dwivedi-b278594/ https://www.amazon.in/Marketing-Chronicles-Compendium-Pre-Smartphone-Post-Smartphone/dp/1947949152/ Media Contact : Joseph P Chacko [email protected] +91-7977472458 Itail Agencies LLP SOURCE Nimish Dwivedi Vestas continues to change how the world harnesses and produces energy and at the 2 nd Global RE-INVEST 2018, we will be promoting our offering across a renewable energy plant's entire value chain, including our turbine technology especially designed for low and ultra-low wind sites like India (V120), market-leading multibrand service offerings, turnkey capabilities and expanding efforts within hybrid power plant solutions. "India is an important market to us in Vestas and we are thrilled to have received a significant amount of firm orders here to date this year. With the renewable energy target set at 175GW capacity by 2022, the Wind Energy market in India is growing tremendously and Vestas is proud to be able to contribute towards this target. We will continue to support our customers' ambitions through our years of experience here, our deep understanding of customer needs and our ability to provide customized solutions for auction bids," said Clive Turton, President of Vestas Asia Pacific. As a global leader in sustainable energy solutions and a key contributor in the renewable energy in India, we constantly engage local communities to improve the outcomes of health and education of the people in the states we operate in through water way projects to improve clean water access to the people, sanitation hygiene as well as skills training. For updated Vestas photographs and videos, please visit our media images page at: https://www.vestas.com/en/media/images . For more information, please contact: Stephanie Foo Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications, Asia Pacific [email protected] +65 9645 4558 Charu Tripathi Marketing Professional, India [email protected] +91 73394 32334 About Vestas Vestas is the energy industry's global partner on sustainable energy solutions. We design, manufacture, install, and service wind turbines across the globe, and with 94 GW of wind turbines in 79 countries, we have installed more wind power than anyone else. Through our industry-leading smart data capabilities and unparalleled 79 GW of wind turbines under service, we use data to interpret, forecast, and exploit wind resources and deliver best-in-class wind power solutions. Together with our customers, Vestas' more than 24,300 employees are bringing the world sustainable energy solutions to power a bright future. For updated Vestas photographs and videos, please visit our media images page on: https://www.vestas.com/en/media/images. We invite you to learn more about Vestas by visiting our website at www.vestas.com and following us on our social media channels: Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20181003/2256187-1 Related Links http://www.vestas.com SOURCE Vestas "Combined with wine tasting and educational events that will be developed throughout California, this is a game-changing approach to increasing our impact." - Rebecca Robinson, Executive Director, ZAP The Association of Zinfandel Advocates & Producers (ZAP) today announced the award of a Specialty Crop Block Grant in the amount of $256,291 from The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). The funds awarded during the next two years will support the associations launch of a campaign called: Zinfandel: Stories of Americas Heritage Grape. This grant will give us the opportunity to expand Zinfandel's appreciation and reach, explains Rebecca Robinson, Executive Director of ZAP. The project will utilize a compelling mix of video and the latest technology to connect with millennials through social media platforms. Combined with wine tasting and educational events that will be developed throughout California, this is a game-changing approach to increasing our impact, Robinson notes. Zinfandel, which is almost exclusively grown in California and is often called "America's Heritage Grape," has not been receiving the attention it deserves. As such, Zinfandel: Stories of America's Heritage Grape will build on ZAPs 25 year history of creating meaningful experiences and building relationships between Zinfandel producers, winemakers, growers, and enthusiasts. Through compelling storytelling captured on video and shared on social media, educational exhibits, and live events, the world of Zinfandel will captivate new audiences throughout California and beyond. As a result, the interest for Zinfandel will increase because a wider base of new and existing wine lovers will personally identify with the grape's rich history, the vibrant personalities of today's wine producers, and the dynamic community of Zinfandel consumers. In addition to documenting and sharing the vibrant stories of Zinfandel and producing notable regional events, ZAP will also use the grant to help preserve 100 acres of old vine Zinfandel (much of which is dry-farmed) and increase new Zinfandel plantings by 2,500 acres both by 2020. By increasing demand and education about Zinfandel, including its water-wise abilities, we anticipate more acres of Zinfandel will be planted and preserved, raising capacity for small-scale Zinfandel production. This project is anticipated to not only benefit California Zinfandel producers, but the thousands employed by the California Zinfandel wine industry. ZAP is one of 72 organizations to receive a marketing grant for agriculture education and outreach and one of approximately four organizations focused on California wine. CDFA awarded a total of $22.3 million to Specialty Crop Block Grants relating to the categories of research, marketing and nutrition. About Zinfandel Advocates & Producers (ZAP) Zinfandel Advocates & Producers (ZAP) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) association dedicated to advancing public knowledge of and appreciation for American Zinfandel and its unique place in our culture and history. Members include over 200 winegrowers and winemakers, as well as thousands of wine enthusiasts. The common focus is the preservation and recognition of Zinfandel as Americas Heritage Grape. Started in 1991, ZAP is reported to be one of the largest consumer-based wine advocacy groups in the world. ZAPs showcase event is Zinfandel Experience (ZinEX) in San Francisco, taking place February 23 25, 2017. ZAP can be found online at Zinfandel.org and ZinEX can be found at Zinfandelexperience.com, on Facebook @ZAP.org and on Twitter @thezinfandelorg. Welcome Guest! You Are Here: Marathon 2021 Runners of all racing stripes took part in the 2021 TCS New York City Marathon on November 7. Racing categories in this, the largest marathon... Mount Sinai Queens Opening New Infusion Center The last week of October was marked by an expansion of health care capacity in the borough, as Mount Sinai Queens celebrated the opening of... The Unofficial Election Results The unofficial election results from the general election on November 2, 2021, with well over 90% of scanners reported: MAYOR: Eric Adams (D) decisively... VIM Airlines challenges court ruling on $44 million debt flickr.com/Anna Zvereva 10:39 03/10/2018 MOSCOW, October 3 (RAPSI) Vim Airlines has filed an appeal against a ruling of the Commercial Court of Tatarstan granting a claim filed by RNGO company, which sought to include a 3 billion-ruble ($44 million) debt of the troubled air carrier into the creditors demands list. The appeal will be reviewed by the Eleventh Commercial Court of Appeals on November 6. On September 26, the Commercial Court of Tatarstan declared VIM Airlines bankrupt. The bankruptcy claim has been filed against the air carrier by the same company, RNGO. In August, the court granted an application filed by the company, including a 3 billion-ruble ($44 million) debt into the creditors demands list. In April, the Eleventh Commercial Court of Appeals dismissed an appeal filed by VIM Airlines against initiation of a bankruptcy monitoring procedure against the company. The airline appealed the February 19 ruling of the Commercial Court of Tatarstan. The court found the motion filed by RNGO to be justified and initiated the monitoring procedure against the airline. In December 2017, the airlines CEO Vyacheslav Kononenko said that the company was facing a serious problem in that it cant pay salaries because of debts to the Federal Tax Service (FTS) reaching 500 million rubles ($8.8 million). According to Kononenko, all funds transferred to the airlines accounts are automatically blocked and transferred to tax authorities. On October 17, 2017, a criminal case was launched over premeditated bankruptcy of VIM Airlines. In September of the same year the court returned a bankruptcy claim against the airline back to the Deposit Insurance Agency (DIA). According to the court, due to the social tensions surrounding the activities of the airline, the applicant decided to recall the motion. Investigators believe that certain top managers and owners of the air carrier intentionally made losing bargains in 2016 and 2017 including those aimed at siphoning of assets abroad. The deals led to enormous financial outlay and undoubtedly resulted in the companys failure to pay debts to creditors in full. According to investigators, employees of VIM Airlines continued to sell tickets to clients despite being aware that the airline was not able to transfer passengers because there were not enough funds to buy fuel. Investigators believe that the employees embezzled more than one million rubles ($17,000). VIM Airlines CEO and chief accountant Alexander Kochnev and Yekaterina Panteleyeva have been arrested as part of the case. Co-owners of VIM Airlines Rashid Mursekayev and Svetlana Mursekayeva fled Russia and are currently residing abroad, according to investigators. Allegedly Mursekayev and Kalashnikova fled Russia to hide from investigative authorities. In December, the Basmanny District Court of Moscow issued an arrest warrant for Mursekayev in absentia. Investigators also believe that between 2015 and 2017 the defendants abused their office positions to buy overpriced aviation fuel from companies controlled by Mursekayev. Allegedly, VIM Avias damages reach 782 million rubles (nearly $12 million). Prosecutor asks court to imprison former Makhachkala mayor for 5 years RIA Novosti, Sergey Rasulov 17:09 03/10/2018 MOSCOW, October 3 (RAPSI) A prosecutor has asked the Sovetsky ourt in Makhachkala to sentence the former mayor of Dagestans capital Musa Musayev charged with abuse of office resulting in grave consequences to 5 years in prison, the courts press-service has told RAPSI. The case is being reviewed under a special procedure, without studying the evidence. The next hearing in the case is set for October 12. Investigators claim that in March 2016, the defendant transferred a municipal land plot with an area of about 17,500 square meters to the Construction and Industrial Joint-Stock Complex for 1.1 million rubles ($17,000). According to an expert opinion, the market value of this plot reaches over 81 million rubles (about $1.3 million). Musayev has violated legally protected interests of the state and caused damage to the budget of Republic of Dagestan estimated at around 80 million rubles, the investigators statement reads. As part of the case, investigators conducted searches at Musayevs subordinates. Fraud case launched against employees of troubled Russian tour company ITAR-TASS 13:36 03/10/2018 MOSCOW, October 3 (RAPSI) An inspection carried by the Moscow prosecutors office resulted in the fraud case being launched against employees of the troubled Natalie Tours company, the spokesperson of the Prosecutor Generals Office Alexander Kurennoy told RAPSI on Wednesday. Prosecutors found that Natalie Tours and Panorama Tour received over one million rubles ($15,200) as payment for provision of tourist products and services that were not actually carried out. The criminal case was classified as fraud committed by an organized criminal group or on an especially large scale. In early July, Natalie Tours reported cancellation of all tours and suspension of sales because of financial problems. Later, the company started paying compensations to clients for canceled tours. Natalie Tours, a tour operator on the Russian foreign tourist market, was founded in April 1992. In 2014, the companys amount of business was estimated at $850 million. As 4G internet completes coverage of the entire country, rural markets have become the primary generator of sales. Earlier this year, Manu Kumar Jain, vice-president (V-P), Xiaomi India, was crisscrossing the country, taking selfies with trade partners in Chandigarh one day, and next, shaking hands with people in Hostake, a small town in Karnataka with a population of about 60,000. His hard work bore fruit when his company had a quarterly shipment of 10 million smartphones in June, the highest ever. Jain is not the only one running around the country. As 4G internet completes coverage of the entire country, rural markets have become the primary generator of sales. From Samsung to Vivo, all major smartphone companies have taken note of it. In 2018, Samsung, the largest consumer electronics maker in the country with retail partners and branded large-format stores across the country, has increased the number of its outlets by 20 per cent. Earlier it had 150,000 outlets for direct distribution. Now, it has 180,000 outlets. It plans to increase the number to 200,000 by the year-end, said Mohandeep Singh, senior V-P, mobile business, Samsung India. It has already covered all Tier-V town (with a population of 5,000 or more), and is now looking to target Tier-VI towns, he added. Xiaomi used to earlier generate 90 per cent sales online, but it, too, has expanded its direct distribution reach in the past year. Unlike rivals, it has focused on smaller towns as well, tapping into regional chains such as Sangeetha, C-Mobiles, and Preferred Partner outlets. Two other smartphone makers, Vivo and Oppo, ranked third and fourth spots, respectively, started expanding their reach beyond urban clusters in early-2017. The companies did not share the number of outlets that they individually reach. Estimates suggest both have presence in Tier-IV towns. The recent push to the farthest corners of the country by major players is not without reason. According to Jaipal Singh, analyst at IDC, improving internet connectivity in rural areas is driving the companies. As urban market gets saturated, rural is the next growth area. All companies have identified that. "With cheaper data rates, rural consumers are now ready for a shift to smartphones and brands can now easily convert them from feature phones, he said. Singh from Samsung agreed with this. Smartphones are bought in smallest of towns, thanks to better network connectivity and electrification, he said. With the entry of Reliance Jio, the expansion 4G coverage has got a major boost. Now, nearly 96 per cent of all locations have got $G connectivity, an Open Source report noted. According to a recent study from Internet and Mobile Association of India and Kantar IMRB, the number of mobile internet users in India would grow to 500 million by mid-2018 with a fifth in rural areas. The user base in rural market is growing faster than urban. 'Most of the agitations are staged by the Opposition to disturb the peace of the state.' IMAGE: A bus in flames after it was torched by farmers on the Bhopal-Indore highway in Dewas, Madhya Pradesh, during the farmers agitation in MP in June 2017. Photograph: PTI Photo "Farmer suicides can't be politicised or looked at in isolation," three-term Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan tells Sandeep Kumar. Assembly elections are on the horizon in the state. Do you think there is a sense of anti-incumbency in Madhya Pradesh? I don't see any anti-incumbency in the state as our Bharatiya Janata Party government has been working to fulfill the promises we made to the people. The results are there for everyone to see. The public is witness to our journey of creating a developed state from the BIMARU one we inherited from the Congress in 2003. The overwhelming response to the Jan Ashirwad Yatra is the proof. Wherever I go, people from all walks of life turn out in large numbers to shower their affection and blessings on me. As far as the Congress is concerned, neither I nor the people see any rejuvenation. It is still divided into many groups, each trying to get their agendas through. Every other day, you hear of their state in-charge getting beaten up by supporters of one or the other group. I have even requested our home minister to speak with him and provide him additional security, if needed. I feel sorry for him. There is significant infighting and the party unit is in complete disarray. The past few years have been marked by scams, illegal mining, farmer suicides and agitations. This has tarnished the image of your party somewhat. Will this have any fallout on you or on your party's confidence? The BJP is a cadre-based disciplined party. There is no question of any internal fallout; there has never been one. We are united in the goal of creating a Congress-mukt Bharat. We are already there as they are present in only four states now. When we talk of scams, I must mention that Vyapam scam, which was going on since Digvijayji's (then MP chief minister Digvijay Singh) time was brought to light by me. We should get credit for that. We have banned all types of sand mining in all important rivers, and wherever there are legal mines, Panchayats have been entrusted with the responsibility of managing sand mining. The only major issue farmers are facing today in MP is bumper production of crops and nothing else. We are always there for farmers. The real farmer doesn't go out to agitate, most of the agitations are staged by the Opposition to disturb the peace of the state. On one hand, Anand department has been constituted in the state, on the other, incidents of rape in the state have suddenly escalated in the recent days. Is this a problem of law and order? How do you perceive it? We are the first state in India to constitute an Anand Department. We are laying emphasis on spreading happiness in the lives of people. The incidents of rapes, be it in MP or anywhere else in the country have always disturbed me. It is my firm belief that perpetrators of such heinous crimes have no right to live in a civilised society. MP became the first state in India to introduce capital punishment for rapists of minor girls up to 12 years of age, in December last year. To get rid of this menace, society needs to look within and bring a behavioural change. We need to educate our children and teach them to discern right from wrong. Make in Madhya Pradesh was announced right after the Make in India programme of the central government. What progress has been made in this direction? A slew of projects have been initiated under the Make in Madhya Pradesh. India's first small arms manufacturing unit has been set up in Malanpur in association with Israel. It's a joint venture between Israel Weapon Industries and Punj Lloyd and the first of its kind in India. We have created a defence production investment promotion policy. Our rate of converting investment intentions into actual investment is much better than many other states. What are the particular measures being undertaken by the state government to achieve headway in manufacturing and service sector? A single window clearance system has been introduced in the state to facilitate and increase investment. We are ranked seventh overall in India in the ease of doing business. A conducive infrastructure has been created that includes good road and air connectivity, 24x7 power and water supply. A slew of incentives is being provided to prospective investors. An industrial corridor -- the Chambal Expressway -- is being constructed that will give a fillip to trade and commerce including inter-state transfers. Our aim is to develop MP as a logistics hub. Some time back, you had said, 'The roads of Madhya Pradesh are better than the ones in America'. But when we get out of big cities to the rural areas this doesn't really hold true... I have been asked about this on several occasions and my answer is the same. I had gone to the US to market my state as a top destination for investments and industry. I am, in a way, the CEO of the state representing 75 million people of the state. I made the statement as a CEO and I stand by what I said. The approach road from Indore to airport is by far much better than the Washington, DC road. Global investment summits were organised in the state with much fanfare. But the benefits don't show on the ground... Global Investment is a lengthy process. Nothing can be built in a day. It requires continuous engagement with investors. We have had a fair share of success. IT giants like Infosys and Tata Consultancy Services are also making their way into Madhya Pradesh. Madhya Pradesh, which has been ranked seventh in terms of ease of doing business has received 16.4 per cent of total investment, which is second to Maharashtra in 2017. We have already talked about small arms factory. Also, there is no real data on the capital investment and the employment of the people in the state? Industrial parks and special economic zones have been set up in the state and received good response. This would not have been possible without actual investments pouring in. Ventures like small arms manufacturing unit in Malanpur, Rewa ultra mega solar etc have generated jobs in the state. We have received 16 per cent of actual investments in 2017 in the country as per DIPP so that's the data part. Today, self-employment is a big development across the country. Mudra loan has been given to more than 26.83 lakh people of Madhya Pradesh. A few years ago, you spoke of Vision 2018. More than half of 2018 has ended and elections are looming large. What has happened to that vision? Our vision 2018 included a three pronged approach: 1. Bringing MP out of the BIMARU club. 2. Making MP a developing state by building the necessary infra in place. 3. Making MP a developed state by attracting investments and promoting agriculture. I am glad to share that we have achieved the objectives of Vision 2018. We have started Jan Kalyan Yojana (Sambal) for the poor, downtrodden and the needy. Under this scheme, pucca houses are being built for the poor. Free-of-cost education is being provided to their children and medical treatment up to Rs 500,000 is being provided. We are hopeful of bringing a significant transformation in the lives of people through SAMBAL. There is a peculiar paradox in the agriculture sector. On one hand, we can boast of agriculture development rate of more than 18 per cent and bagging the Krishi Karman award, whereas on the other hand, farmers are aggrieved. According to NCRB, more than 11,000 farmers committed suicide in the last 9 to 10 years. Farmer suicides is a serious issue. It can't be politicised or looked at in isolation. When I assumed office, agriculture reported a negative growth rate. I realised that agriculture is the backbone of our economy, more than 2/3rd population is dependent upon it and we can't succeed without fixing agriculture. We have increased the land under irrigation from 7.5 lakh hectares to 40 lakh hectares with plan to double it to 80 lakh hectares. The turnaround in agriculture in the state is a case study in itself. IMAGE: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan at his fast in Bhopal last year. Photograph: PTI Photo In the last few years, the government has announced several schemes. Sambal Scheme, Easy Electricity Bill absolution scheme, Krishak Samrudhi Yojna, Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana. Is the fiscal order of the government in such a good shape to withstand such monetary overload? Yes, we are in proper shape to withstand any monetary overload of the schemes that have been rolled out. We have spent significant capital resources on building world class infrastructure in the state. We are now past this phase and assets will just require maintenance as we go ahead freeing up resources for social welfare schemes. The fiscal deficit in our budget for 2018-19 is within the prescribed 3.25 per cent limit of the Madhya Pradesh Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2005. Your elder son Kartikeya Singh has been recently seen campaigning for the party. Is he going to join active politics in the coming elections? Kartikeya is a young man and is free to pursue a career of his choice. He does help me like any other son would help his father and looks after my constituency development work; but the decision to join politics is entirely up to him. However, if he wants to do public service, he will have to go up the ladder. Our party does not believe in dynasty politics and he will have to prove his mettle. The Centre has extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in three districts of Arunachal Pradesh and its eight police station areas bordering Assam by another six months, in view of continuing activities of banned insurgent groups of the Northeast. According to a notification issued by the ministry of home affairs, Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts of Arunachal Pradesh and eight police stations bordering Assam were declared disturbed areas under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958. Now, therefore, Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts in Arunachal Pradesh and the areas falling within the jurisdiction of the following eight police stations in the districts of Arunachal Pradesh, bordering the State of Assam, are declared as disturbed area under Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 up to March 31, 2019 w.e.f. October 1, 2018, unless withdrawn earlier, the notification said. The police stations include Balemu and Bhalukpong police stations in West Kameng district, Seijosa police station in East Kameng district, Balijan police station in Papumpare district, Namsai and Mahadevpur police stations in Namsai district, Roing police station in Lower Dibang Valley district and Sunpura police station in Lohit district. The decision was taken following a review of the law and order situation in the three districts and eight police station areas concerned, a home ministry official said. Banned insurgent groups National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Khaplang United Liberation Front Of Assam and National Democratic Front of Boroland are active in these areas of Arunachal Pradesh. Heavy to very heavy rain is likely to occur in the next three or four days in Kerala and Lakshsadweep, the Indian Meteorological Department said on Wednesday. According to the IMD, a low pressure is likely to form over southeast Arabian sea on October 5 and it is likely to concentrate into a depression and move northwestwards during subsequent 48 hours. It is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm thereafter, the bulletin said. With the depression intensifying, the coastal areas would witness strong winds and fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea between October 6 and 8. In the wake of the forecast, an emergency meeting of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority was held at Thiruvanathapuram to take steps to meet any eventuality. The state government has decided to take precautionary measures on a 'war-footing', Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan told reporters in Thiruvananthapuram after the meeting. Necessary instructions have been given to district collectors to set up relief camps in hilly areas by October 5 as there is a possibility of landslides and people living in such places should follow the instructions of the officials, the chief minister said. A red alert has been sounded in three districts of Idukki, Thrissur and Palakkad in Kerala. People have been asked to avoid night travel in hilly areas and tourists visiting Munnar in Idukki to get a glimpse of 'Neelakurinji', a flower which blooms in the western ghats once in 12 years, should refrain from visiting the place from October 5 until further instructions, he said. Since there is possibility of floods, people living on the banks of rivers and streams have been asked to move to relief camps. The government also wanted the central forces to be prepared in view of the alert and said it would seek deployment of five more teams of National Disaster Response Force. A meeting of the state disaster management authority would be held on Thursday to monitor and take necessary steps on monitoring the water level in dams. Heavy to very heavy rainfall (12-20 cm in 24 hours) is most likely to occur at one or two places in Kerala from October 4-6 and extremely heavy rainfall (21 cm and above) is most likely to occur at one or two places on October 7, according to the bulletin. The state had witnessed the fury of the southwest monsoon in August, the worst in the last 100 years, which claimed 493 lives and submerged several districts. Meanwhile, Deputy Director General of Meteorology (Regional Meteorological Centre) S Balachandran told reporters in Chennai that Tamil Nadu and Puducherry was likely to receive widespread, moderate rain with some isolated incidents of heavy downpour in the next two days. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea between October 6 and 8 over the South Kerala coast, Lakshadweep area, Comorin area, Southeast Arabian sea and Central Arabian sea, he said. Forecasting a favourable northeast monsoon, the official had said the state is likely receive rainfall 12 per cent higher than the normal. United States President Donald Trump publicly mocked Christine Blasey Ford, the professor who has alleged that she was sexually assaulted by his Supreme Court nominee Justice Brett Kavanaugh some 36 years ago. IMAGE: At the rally, US President Donald Trump raised doubts over the allegations made by Christine Blasey Ford against the Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Photograph: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters Impersonating Ford, who testified before a Senate Judiciary Committee last week with her allegations, Trump on Tuesday said that the woman accuser only remembered that she had one beer and nothing else. Trump, in his address to his supporters in Mississippi raised doubts over the allegations of Ford, as a result of which the lives of Kavanaugh is in tatters, he said. Thirty-six years ago, this happened, said the US president as he was referring to the alleged party in a house in Maryland where Ford alleges she was sexually assaulted by Kavanaugh. Thereafter Trump imitated Fords question and answer session at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing last week. How did you get home? I dont remember. Howd you get there? I dont remember. Where is the place? I dont remember. How many years ago was it? I dont know, Trump said mocking Ford. What neighbourhood was it in? I dont know. Wheres the house? I dont know. Upstairs, downstairs, where was it? I dont know, but I had one beer. Thats the only thing I remember, Trump said amid cheering and laughter from his supporters The allegations, he said, had a great impact on Judge Kavanaugh. A mans life is in tatters. His wife is shattered, he said and alleged that the Democrats are behind this. They destroy people. They want to destroy people. These are really evil people, Trump said. The International Court of Justice will hold public hearings in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case from February 18 to 21 next year at The Hague, a statement issued by the principal judicial organ of the United Nations said on Wednesday. Jadhav, 48, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage and terrorism in April 2017. India moved the ICJ in May the same year against the verdict. A 10-member bench of the ICJ on May 18, 2017 had restrained Pakistan from executing Jadhav till adjudication of the case. "The hearings will be streamed live and on demand (VOD) in English and French on the Court's website as well as on UN Web TV, the United Nations online television channel," said the press release issued by the ICJ. The ICJ on January 23 gave a timeline to both Pakistan and India for filing another round of memorials in the case. Both India and Pakistan have already submitted their detailed pleas and responses in the world court. In its written pleadings, India had accused Pakistan of violating the Vienna Convention by not giving consular access to Jadhav arguing that the convention did not say that such access would not be available to an individual arrested on espionage charges. In response, Pakistan through its counter-memorial on December 13 told the ICJ that the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations 1963 applied only to legitimate visitors and did not cover clandestine operations. Pakistan had said that 'since India did not deny that Jadhav was travelling on a passport with an assumed Muslim name, they have no case to plead'. Pakistan said that India did not explain how 'a serving naval commander' was travelling under an assumed name. It also stated that 'since Jadhav was on active duty, it is obvious that he was a spy sent on a special mission'. Pakistan says its security forces arrested Jadhav from Balochistan province in March 2016 after he reportedly entered the country from Iran. In its submission to the ICJ, Pakistan had stated that Jadhav is not an ordinary person as he had entered the country with the intent of spying and carrying out sabotage activities. India has been maintaining that the trial of Jadhav by a military court in Pakistan was 'farcical'. Pakistan claims that its security forces arrested Jadhav from restive Balochistan province on March 3, 2016 after he reportedly entered from Iran. However, India maintains that Jadhav was kidnapped from Iran where he had business interests after retiring from the Navy. Jadhav's sentencing had evoked a sharp reaction in India. India had approached the ICJ for 'egregious' violation of the provisions of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963, by Pakistan in Jadhav's case. For the first time, India will deport seven Rohingya immigrants, who have been staying in Assam illegally, to their home country Myanmar on Thursday, officials said. The immigrants were under detention in Cachar Central Jail in Assam's Silchar district since 2012, when they were detained by police. They will be handed over to Myanmar authorities at Moreh border post in Manipur on Thursday, a Home Ministry official said. Consular access had been given to Myanmar diplomats, who confirmed the identity of the immigrants, the official said. Another official said the confirmation of the Myanmarese citizenship of the illegal immigrants came after the government of the neighbouring country verified their addresses in Rakhine State. This is for the first time Rohingya immigrants would be sent back to Myanmar from India. In Guwahati, Assam Additional Director General of Police (Border) Bhaskarjyoti Mahanta said deportation of foreign nationals have been going on for sometime and earlier in the year "we have deported several Bangladeshi, Myanmarese and Pakistani nationals". The seven immigrants were apprehended on July 29, 2012, for violating the Foreigners Act. Those to be deported are Md Jamal, Mohbul Khan, Jamal Hussain, Md Yonus, Sabir Ahmed, Rahim Uddin and Md Salam and are in the age bracket of 26-32 years, a Cachar district official said. The Indian government had informed Parliament last year that over 14,000 Rohingya people, registered with the UN refugee agency UNHCR, stay in India. However, aid agencies estimate there are about 40,000 Rohingya people in the country. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims, described by the UN as the most persecuted minority in the world, fled their homes last year to escape an alleged crackdown by the Myanmarese military. Human rights group Amnesty International has blamed Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and the country's government for 'burying their heads in the sand over the horrors unfolding in Rakhine State'. The Maharshtra government moved the Supreme Court on Wednesday challenging the Delhi high court order allowing Gautam Navlakha, one of the five rights activists arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima case, to be freed from house arrest. The plea was filed in the apex court registry challenging the Delhi high court order, Nishant Katneshwar, counsel for the Maharashtra government said. The high court had on Monday freed Navlakha from house arrest, five weeks after he and four other rights activists were arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima violence in Maharashtra. The Maharashtra government said in the petition that the high court had misread the CrPC while allowing Navlakha to be freed from house arrest. Granting relief to the 65-year-old activist, the high court had also quashed the trial courts transit remand order which he had challenged before the matter was taken to the Supreme Court. The case in hand depicts misreading of section 167 (1) and (2) of Code of Criminal Procedure by the High Court while passing the impugned order, said the petition filed by Shivaji Panditrao Pawar, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Pune. Section 167 (1) states that in case an accused is to be produced before the jurisdictional magistrate, then it is incumbent upon the police to produce the case diary. The plea said that in case the police applies for transit remand before a magistrate having no jurisdiction, then it is not necessary for the police to produce the case diary. In the case in hand, the police arrested five persons from different places in the country. It was, therefore, not expected and not possible to produce the case diary before the concerned courts, the plea said. The plea said that the high court has erred in stating that there was non-application of mind by the chief metropolitan magistrate in passing the order of transit remand, it said. It needs to be seen that, while passing the order of transit remand the magistrate had gone through the application filed by the police and he had heard the concerned police officer. It is not possible/pragmatic to mention minute details while passing the order of remand, it said. The plea also said that when the Supreme Court had extended the period of house arrest by four weeks it was not necessary to observe about end of house arrest. It also claimed that the high court has erred in allowing the petition of Navlakha by setting aside the order of remand. It is pertinent to note that, neither was there a prayer to set aside the order of remand nor was there any amendment to that effect. The writ petition was filed seeking a writ of habeas corpus only, it said. It further said that the high court has erred in entertaining the plea and it was clearly against the law. The plea also claimed that the high court has erred in doubting the procedure of arrest and the police had followed the procedure while arresting as well as while seeking transit remand. The high court had said that Navlakhas detention had exceeded 24 hours which was untenable. The bench of Justices S Muralidhar and Vinod Goel, while setting aside the August 28 order of the chief metropolitan magistrate granting Navlakha transit remand, had said there was non-compliance of basic provisions of the Constitution and the CrPC which were mandatory in nature. The bench also said the trial court order was unsustainable in law. However, the high court had made it clear that the order will not preclude the state of Maharashtra from proceeding further. Navlakha was arrested from the national capital by the Maharashtra police on August 28. The other four activists were arrested from different parts of the country. They were arrested in connection with an FIR lodged following a conclave -- Elgaar Parishad -- held on December 31 last year that had allegedly triggered violence later at Koregaon-Bhima village in the state. The five activists -- Varavara Rao, Arun Ferreira, Vernon Gonsalves, Sudha Bharadwaj and Gautam Navlakha -- were put under house arrest on August 29 following an apex court order on the plea by historian Romila Thapar, economists Prabhat Patnaik and Devaki Jain, sociology professor Satish Deshpande and human rights lawyer Maja Daruwala against the police action. Rejecting the Opposition demand to file a review petition in the Supreme Court against its order allowing women of all age groups into Sabarimala, the Kerala government on Wednesday said it would implement the verdict in the coming pilgrim season itself. A high-level meeting here of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), which manages the Lord Ayyappa temple, also decided to make necessary arrangements for women pilgrims visiting the hill shrine when it opens for the annual pilgrimage season on October 16. Opposition Congress termed the Communist Party of India-Marxist-led Left Democratic Front government's decision as 'unilateral' and said it was against the interest of a majority of Ayyappa devotees in and outside the state. It alleged that TDB President A Padmakumar, who earlier pitched for filing the review, had backtracked from his stand after Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan 'chided' him. The party also decided to convene a meeting of former presidents and board members of the TDB Thursday to decide the future course of action on the matter. The Sabarimala Temple had restricted the entry of women belonging to the age group between 10-50 due as part of its age-old tradition. On October 28, a five-judge constitution bench, headed by the then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine. Vijayan said that as a government, it has to abide by the directives of the top court and make necessary arrangements for women devotees visiting the shrine. "It is the responsibility of the government to implement the court order without any compromise. We will ensure that necessary arrangements are provided for women devotees in the coming season itself," he told reporters in Thiruvananthapuram. He also took exception to the TDB president's recent remark that they were not expecting a large number of women devotees at the shrine in the wake of the apex court order. On the protest launched by various outfits against implementing the court verdict, the chief minister said no one has the right to prevent women devotees if they want to offer worship at the shrine. "When the Supreme Court has taken a stand after considering all aspects of the matter, people have to accept the law of the land. The government is for implementing it," he added. After the TDB meeting, Padmakumar said the Board discussed the Supreme Court order in detail and decided not to file the review petition. "We view the apex court verdict with utmost seriousness. After discussing all the aspects, the meeting decided not to file the review petition in the present context," he said. Detailing the preparations for the coming pilgrimage season, he said special facilities would be provided to the devotees at Pamba and Nilackal, the base camps. Temporary dormitories, women-friendly toilets and more drinking water facilities would be arranged, he said, adding that all existing arrangements would be made better useful for women devotees. "The Board expects 40 per cent more devotees at the shrine this season in the wake of the SC verdict," Padmakumar said, adding there was no room for any concern on the Sabarimala pilgrimage. Meanwhile, Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala flayed the government and the TDB for its decision to implement the verdict in haste. The TDB had 'failed' in its duty to safeguard the interests of Ayyappa devotees, he alleged. He demanded that the state or the central government come out with an ordinance 'to overcome the Supreme Court verdict' and protect the interests of devotees of Lord Ayyappa. Chennithala also said the district Congress committee in Pathanamthitta would stage a fast on Friday to protest the stand taken by the state government on the Sabarimala issue. Activists of Yuva Morcha, the Bharatiya Janata Party's youth wing, took out rallies in all panchayats across the state Wednesday, urging the government to protect the centuries-old rituals and tradition of the hill shrine. They also burnt an effigy of Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran at various places. Hundreds of Ayyappa devotees, including women, on Tuesday had blocked state and national highways in various parts of Kerala protesting the Supreme Court verdict. RSS for availing 'all options including judicial' Noting that devotees' sentiments 'cannot be ignored' while considering the Supreme Court verdict, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh on Wednesday called upon all stakeholders to come together and address the issue availing 'judicial options also'. The judgment of the Supreme Court should be honoured, the RSS maintained. 'The recent judgment on Sabarimala Devasthanam has evoked reactions all over the country. While we all respect the varied temple traditions followed by devotees in Bharat, we have to also honour the honourable Supreme Court,' RSS General Secretary Suresh Bhayyaji Joshi said in a statement. 'While the Supreme Court judgement should be respected, RSS calls upon all the stakeholders, including spiritual and community leaders, to come together to analyse and address the issue availing judicial options also,' the RSS said. Emphasising that it is an issue of a local temple tradition and faith to which sentiments of millions of devotees, including women, are attached, the RSS underlined that these sentiments of the devotees cannot be ignored while considering the judgment. 'There is an obvious reaction to the same by the devotees, especially women, who are protesting against the forceful breaking of the tradition,' Joshi said. The RSS, which has wide presence in the Left-ruled Kerala and has been at loggerheads with the ruling CPI-M, termed the state government's decision to implement the apex court's order with immediate effect as unfortunate. 'Unfortunately, the Kerala government has taken steps to implement the judgement with immediate effect without taking the sentiments of the devotees into consideration,' Joshi said. Joshi also suggested that all stakeholders and devotees must convey their concerns on their right to worship in a manner which best suits their faith and devotion, to the authorities in a peaceful manner. Sabarimala is a prominent Hindu temple located at Pathanamthitta district in Kerala. It attracts tens of millions of pilgrims every year. The hill-top ancient temple of Lord Ayyappan remains open only for a little over four months in a year and the approach is through a forested area that involves an arduous five-km trek from the Pampa river base camp. The Ayyappa Dharma Sena president had said the organisation would file a review petition against the judgment. 'Until October 16, the Sabarimala temple is closed. So, we have time.' The shrine's head priest Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru had said the verdict was 'disappointing', but the management accepted it. 'People, whose sensitive information has been leaked by State agencies or companies having license from UIDAI to access the Aadhaar database, can file suits, collectively or individually.' Advait Rao Palepu reports. Photographs: Reuters In its verdict, the Supreme Court scrapped Section 47 of the Aadhaar Act, which means individual Aadhaar cardholders or citizens can file criminal complaints against the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and its licensed entities, if a suitable amendment is effected by Parliament, say legal experts. Section 47 of the Aadhaar Act stated that only the UIDAI or a person/officer authorised by it could register and file criminal complaints against individuals and companies for offences. "This was a contentious part, as people were worried how they could get legal recourse for breaches of Aadhaar security, especially when the UIDAI was unwilling to accept that data breaches are a reality," says Raghu Godavar, member of advocacy group RethinkAadhaar. "You can look at the Airtel Payments Bank scam where bank accounts were created for people without their knowledge. This was a subversion of the principle of natural justice," Godavar points out. In its order, the court held: 'There could be several circumstances where UIDAI itself or some third-party is guilty of having committed offences under the Act. By restricting the initiation of the criminal process, the Aadhaar Act renders the penal machinery ineffective and sterile.' "Now that Section 47 is struck down, any person who is aggrieved can file a criminal complaint and set the legal machinery in motion," says Ajay Kumar, associate at MZM Legal. "Under the earlier situation," Kumar adds, "only the authority could decide whom to prosecute. The law now empowers citizens to seek punishment of those who violate their right to privacy by misusing data." Petitioners to the case had argued that since personal and biometric information collected and stored by UIDAI in the Central Identities Data Repository is the property of the individual, this clause in the Act violated the individuals' right to judicial intervention. There are various offences listed in the Act under which UIDAI could file criminal complaints and take cognisable action against individuals and companies. These include unauthorised access to CIDR, impersonation of an Aadhaar holder, unlawful or non-consensual disclosure and transmission of Aadhaar details, mis-use of information in the CIDR, and theft of identity information, among others. Further, Section 43 also makes companies and their management liable for offences committed under the Aadhaar Act. This means that firms can be taken to court if individuals or a group of individuals find clear violations of personal or biometric data by employees or the company itself. "If a complaint is made against a company, then the person in the firm who is responsible for that matter will be prosecuted, along with the company itself," says Kumar. "A lot of these prosecutions end up becoming slow because law enforcement and prosecutors lack the necessary training to prosecute these complicated offences. We will need to upgrade the law enforcement agencies to investigate offences under the Aadhaar Act," adds Kumar. Last month, Aadhaar details of over 8.9 million MNREGA beneficiaries were made public on a Web site portal run by the Andhra Pradesh government. In another report, the commisionerate of college education in Andhra Pradesh leaked personal details and Aadhaar numbers of over 64,000 past and present students, including their caste details. "People, whose sensitive information has been leaked by State agencies or companies having license from UIDAI to access the Aadhaar database, can file suits, collectively or individually," says senior lawyer Murali Neelakantan. "Now that the Supreme Court has stuck down Section 47, they can also file criminal complaints today under the Aadhaar Act and the Information and Technology Act," Neelakantan adds. "Thereafter, if the case is not properly investigated or prosecuted, they can approach the high courts or the Supreme Court with a writ petition to constitute a Special Investigation Team with a court-appointed public prosecutor," explains Neelakantan. While many hail the Supreme Court's decision as a move in the right direction, legal experts say that individuals are, at the moment, restricted from filing First Information Reports with the police against the UIDAI or licensed entities. "The Supreme Court order says there needs to be a 'suitable amendment to include the provision for filing of such a complaint by an individual/victim as well whose right is violated'. This means Parliament needs to enact a law that says individuals have the right to file a complaint," says a spokesperson from the Software Freedom Law Centre based in New Delhi. Round Rock, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 10/03/2018 --Most homeowners dread one thing, and that is the growth of mold and mildew on their property. The reason or source of such increase is often moisture. During a flood situation, if there is moisture retention in the property, then that will lead to the growth of mold and mildew within 24 to 48 hours. The quicker the property is dried up, the better. This not only helps in cutting down on time for mold growth but also helps in saving the remaining content of the property that is not damaged. 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About Saffron Investigations Saffron Investigations is a trustworthy South Florida based investigative firm, which has been offering its professional services to the local community for several years. Reviews The Delhi quintet shoots for the moon on their new album Instrumental bands follow a well-worn path when they write music; they seek to wow you with hyperbole, technical wankery, and painfully complex ideas; trying unsuccessfully to write wordless stories that need words to be told. Submarine In Space, a band from Delhi that probably shares those lofty ambitions, has put together an album that (whether it is meant to or not) subverts this notion for the most part; instead of flying miles over your head, it is instead shy, cozy and welcoming. It is not grandiose and delusional, but well-grounded and wholly pleasant to interact with. So, by the time you compose an argument in your head for why vocal-less music sucks, youre already having a wholesome, comfortable and fulfilling listening experience, and suddenly youre having too much fun for your preconceived notions to matter. Of course, one must first take note of the fact that is first and foremost an instrumental rock album, so it has some elements that exist in most of the albums in the genre. The album is only 5 tracks long but contains enough ideas for double that. It is not short by any means; every track on here easily crosses the 6 or 7-minute mark, so be prepared for ideas to take minutes to resolve instead of one verse-chorus section. There is a jam-like aspect to this album as well; rigid structure is eschewed in favour of the bands (very talented) members giving themselves time to breathe and communicate their motifs as clearly as possible. And yes, there are a couple of long-winded guitar passages that, while very well executed, will test your endurance just by virtue of their length. But all these things have to be accepted and got out of the way beforehand, because the album itself has so much quality material to listen to that it would be a shame for you to be pretentious and not give it the time and attention it deserves. Firstly, the production. Its light, nimble and jazzy. Theres a lot of room in the mix for warm reverbs and thin, reedy violins and flutes (provided by Sayan Simha.) This is achieved mostly due to the sound of the rhythm section (featuring incredible, jazzy grooves from drummer Vaibhav Ahuja and equally great bass from Madhur Chaudhary), which is tight, dry and articulate. You can hear every ghost note, every little flourish in the bass. It is so clear and contained that it leaves a lot of room for Raeed Azims warm, beautiful keys and the bands founder Abhishek Mittals spacey but astonishingly clear guitars. The album benefits greatly from how it sounds and is a big part of why it is so listenable in the first place. There is also great diversity in the sounds employed throughout. Incense starts off with electric piano and super clean guitars, but ends up in a totally different place with an old-school keyboard sound straight out of old Mario or Pokemon games. It is expressive and at the same time funny. Jamilahn also starts off with a low-key shuffling groove but ends in a full-scale distorted breakdown that wouldnt be out of place in a metal band with an unintelligible logo. There is more than enough instrumental diversity all over Wavelengths to maintain momentum over the duration of its long, winding-songs. Album opener Prince Of Rumada sets the tone for the music to come and is a good sampler of most of the things you can expect to hear. It starts off slow and measured and ends huge and heavy. The drums are fat and well complemented by a skeletal bassline; the guitars are woolly and quite muted until they bloom towards the end of the song. You can hear a sweet thin violin peeking out from time to time. The next track (and easily one of the more exciting songs on the album) 83.83 showcases the sounds that are introduced but not given time to shine in the previous track; the piano, bass and drums lock into a staccato, jerky modern jazz groove that is every bit as cool as trios that are popular in the contemporary scene (Mammal Hands, Gogo Penguin, early Reign Of Kindo etc.) As good as it is by itself, it acts as a support for a proper, full-blown lead guitar that takes most of the attention. The song does wind down at a point, with low, beautiful violin textures and a groove switchup that is super tasty, until the song kicks back into high gear for the outro. It is exhilarating and controls the listeners tension beautifully. Jamilahn, while being probably the heaviest song on the album sonically, is a bit structurally jarring; the shuffling groove and repetitive, mantra-like piano and violin lines get a bit weary with time in spite of their head-bobbing bouncy energy. And while the heavy, explosive groove at the end will work very well live, it is slightly out of context when listened to on the album. Incense is where the repetition and minor variations work to the songs advantage; there is Robert Glasper-like jazziness in the pianos, propulsion in the rhythm section and pure, funky fun in the keyboard solo that ends the song. Oddly enough, the album ends without a huge solo or technical highlight; Take Off is, for the most part, the band trying to simple and hard-hitting instead of introverted and delicate. The huge riff at the end of the song finds all the members letting go of any nuance or detail and just having a good time. It is an interesting change-up from the songs before it and leaves the listener with something more memorable than a 10-minute self-indulgent guitar noodle. Editors Pick Shares of AstraZeneca Plc were losing around 4 percent in the morning trade in London as well as in pre-market activity on Nasdaq after the British drug maker reported Friday a loss in its third quarter, despite strong growth in revenues. Looking ahead, the covid vaccine maker said its earnings guidance for the full year 2021 remains unchanged. Toshiba Corp. announced Friday its plan to split into three standalone companies aiming to tap the full potential of its businesses and maximize shareholder value. The decision comes as the Japanese conglomerate reported significant growth in its second-quarter earnings and sales. The Separation Plan utilizes a tax-qualified spin-off structure permitted under recent legislation. United Airlines has opened ticket sale for its brand-new direct, nonstop flights between Washington D.C./Dulles and Amman, Jordan. The first flight takes off on May 5, 2022. The airline claims to be the only North American carrier offering direct flights to Jordan from the U.S. United will operate flights to Amman three times weekly with a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. A day after recording the highest settlement price in nearly four years, crude oil futures edged down marginally on Tuesday. However, prices still hovered near four-year highs amid fears of supply shortage due to loss of Iranian oil upon implementation of U.S. sanctions from early November this year. Meanwhile, traders were looking ahead to crude oil inventory reports. The American Petroleum Institute is scheduled to come out with its weekly oil report later in the day, while the U.S. Energy Information Administration will release its crude stockpile data for last week, at 10:30 AM ET tomorrow. Crude oil futures for November delivery ended down $0.07, or 0.09%, at $75.23 a barrel. On Monday, crude oil futures ended up $2,05, or 2.8%, at $75.30 a barrel, the highest settlement since November 2014. OPEC and top non-OPEC oil producers, including Russia, recently said they were not in any hurry to step up production, after the U.S. President Donald Trump made a call to them to increase output to offset loss of Iranian oil. It remains to be seen how the leading crude producers are going to make up for the loss of oil exports from Iran, which is the world's fourth-largest oil producer and the third-largest exporter in OPEC. Traders are also weighing the prospects of a likely drop in oil demand amid the trade dispute between the U.S. and China, the world's two largest economies. Some analysts are of the view that escalating tension between the U.S. and China could hurt global economic growth and significantly curb consumer purchasing power. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis The Canadian stock market ended notably lower on Tuesday, led by losses in energy, financial, healthcare and information shares. U.S. President Donald Trump announced a new trade deal between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement, but investors were largely reluctant to pick up stocks.Concerns over U.S.-China trade tensions, Brexit, Italy's huge deficit budget and an Italian policymaker's anti-euro remarks and Brexit weighed on the market. After reaching a new trade deal with Canada and Mexico over the weekend, Trump said on Monday that it was "too early to talk" with China about the escalating trade dispute between the two countries. "Can't talk now because they're not ready," Trump said of China. "Because they have been ripping us for so many years, it doesn't happen that quickly." In Italy, Claudio Borghi, the economic head of the ruling League party said, "I'm totally convinced that Italy would resolve most of its problems with its own currency." However, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte reaffirmed his country's commitment to the Euro. The benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index ended down 87.20 points, or 0.54%, at 16,017.23. The index touched a high of 16,087.29 and a low of 15,987.14 intraday. On Monday, the index ended up 31.29 points, or 0.19%, at 16,104.43. The Capped Financial Index shed 0.66%. Royal Bank of Canada (RY.TO), Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD.TO), Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS.TO), Bank of Montreal (BMO.TO) and Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce (CM.TO) declined by 0.5% to 1.1%, while National Bank of Canada (NA.TO) edged up marginally. The Capped Energy Index shed 1.84%. Canadian Natural Resources (CNQ.TO), Encana Corporation (ECA.TO), Cenovus Energy Inc. (CVE.TO) and Husky Energy Inc. (HSE.TO) lost 2 to 3%. The Capped Healthcare index eased by 3.6%. Aurora Cannabis Inc. (ACB.TO) declined by 4.25%, Canopy Growth Corporation (WEED.TO) ended nearly 6.5% down and Aphria Inc. (APH.TO) tanked nearly 10%. The Capped Information Technology Index declined nearly 2.5%. Shopify Inc. (SHOP.TO) and BlackBerry (BB.TO) ended more than 4% down, Descartes Systems Group Inc. (DSG.TO) ended 3.3% down, Kinaxis Inc. (KXS.TO) eased by 3.1% and CGI Group Inc. (GIB.A.TO) declined by 2.1%. The Capped Materials Index gained nearly 1.5%. Barrick Gold Corporation (ABX.TO) gained more than 5%, Franco-Nevada Corporation (FNV.TO) gained nearly 4%, Goldcorp Inc. (G.TO) advanced by 3.5% and Agnico Eagle Mines (AEM.TO) ended 5.2% up. Fiera Capital Corporation (FSZ.TO) has provided an update on the advancement of the Firm's 2022 Strategic Plan. The objective of the 2022 Plan is to establish Fiera Capital, which has more than C$139 billion under management, as a top-tier, global, multi-strategy asset manager. The stock ended 0.4% down. Maple Leaf Foods Inc. (MFI.TO) shares climbed up 6.2% after the company announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire VIAU Foods, a Canadian market leader in premium Italian cooked, dry-cured and charcuterie meats for a purchase price of $215 million, including $30 million in Maple Leaf stock. Thomson Reuters Corp. (TRI.TO) ended lower by 1.1%. On Monday, the company announced the completion of the sale of a majority stake in its Financial & Risk unit to private equity firm Blackstone Group LP. The U.S. market ended mixed, although the Dow reached a new record closing high. The lackluster performance on Wall Street came as traders seemed reluctant to make significant moves amid a quiet day on the U.S. economic front. The European ended Tuesday's session firmly in the red, due to Brexit concerns and worries over the trade tensions between the U.S. and China. Concerns over the Italian budget also rattled the markets. Asian markets ended mostly lower on Tuesday, weighed down by U.S.-China trade tensions. In commodities, crude oil futures for November delivery ended down $0.07, or 0.09%, at $75.23 a barrel. Natural gas futures for November gained $0.069, or 2.23%, to $3.163 per million btu. Gold futures for December ended up $15.30, or 1.3%, at $1,207.00 an ounce, the highest settlement in nearly two weeks. Silver futures for December ended up $0.186, at $14.693 an ounce, while Copper futures for December settled at $2.8065 per pound, gaining $0.0190 for the session. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis Vodafone Group Plc (VOD.L) announced that Vodafone Italy has acquired spectrum to enable the deployment of new 5G for a total cost of 2.4 billion euros. The spectrum acquired in the auction comprises: 3700 MHz - 80 MHz; 700 MHz - 2 x 10 MHz FDD; and 26 GHz - 200 MHz. The 3700 MHz spectrum, acquired for 1.685 billion euros, is available from 1 January 2019 with a licence duration of 19 years. It can be immediately utilised by Vodafone Italy to enhance coverage, improve capacity, and for the rapid development of 5G services. The 700 MHz spectrum, acquired for 683 million euros, is available from July 2022 with a licence duration of 15.5 years. The company will use the 700 MHz spectrum to deploy enhanced 5G services, providing nationwide coverage at very high speed and very low latency for next-generation applications including IoT, virtual and augmented reality, connected vehicles and robotics. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News The euro strengthened against its major counterparts in the Asian session on Wednesday, following a media report that Italy plans to reduce budget deficit by 2.0 percent in 2021. The Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera reported that the government estimates a budget deficit of 2.4 percent of GDP for 2019, and then slash it to 2.2 percent for 2020. Italian bond yields fell after the report, with the benchmark yield on 10-year note falling by 3.34 percent. Investors heaved a sigh of relief after Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said the euro was "unrenounceable". "Italy is a founder member of the European Union and of the monetary union and I want to reiterate that," Conte said on Facebook. Retail sales data and final composite Purchasing Managers' survey reports from euro area are due shortly. The euro climbed to a 2-day high of 1.1413 against the franc, from a low of 1.1357 hit at 5:00 pm ET. The euro is poised to find resistance around the 1.16 mark. The single currency appreciated to a 2-day high of 1.1594 against the greenback, after falling to 1.1536 at 9:15 pm ET. The euro is seen finding resistance around the 1.17 level. The euro snapped back from an early low of 0.8892 against the pound, rising to a 6-day high of 0.8918. If the euro rises further, 0.90 is likely seen as its next resistance level. Having declined to 130.97 against the yen at 9:20 pm ET, the euro reversed direction and rose to 131.98. The euro is likely test resistance around the 134.00 area. The latest survey from Nikkei showed that Japanese services sector continued to expand in September, but at a sharply slower pace, with a two-year low score of 50.2. That's down from 51.5 in August, although it remains barely above the boom-or-bust line of 50 that separates expansion from contraction. The euro strengthened to a 2-day high of 1.4858 against the loonie, 5-day highs of 1.6146 against the aussie and 1.7615 against the kiwi, reversing from its early lows of 1.4800, 1.6056 and 1.7510, respectively. On the upside, 1.50, 1.63 and 1.78 are likely seen as the next resistance levels for the euro against the loonie, the aussie and the kiwi, respectively. Looking ahead, PMI reports from major European economies and Eurozone retail sales for August are due in the European session. Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond President Thomas Barkin will give a speech titled "The Outlook for Tomorrow: Five Numbers to Watch" at the West Virginia Economic Outlook Conference at 8:05 am ET. At 8:15 am ET, ADP private sector employment data for September is scheduled for release. In the New York session, U.S. ISM non-manufacturing composite index for September will be out. At 2:00 pm ET, Federal Reserve Governor Lael Brainard speaks about the payment system at the FedPayments Improvement Community Forum in Chicago. Fifteen minutes later, Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland President Loretta Mester will speak at the Community Banking in the 21st Century conference at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Oil prices rose above $85 a barrel to hover near a four-year high on Wednesday amid bets that supply will tighten further once U.S. sanctions against Iran kick in next month. Investors also remain skeptical about the ability of Saudi Arabia and other producers to pump more and offset falling Iranian exports. Benchmark Brent crude was up 22 cents or 0.26 percent at $85.02 a barrel after hitting as high as $85.45 on Monday, its highest level since November 2014. U.S. crude futures were up 7 cents at $75.30. Crude exports from Iran, Opec's third-largest producer, have already fallen as U.S. sanctions deterred buyers. Exports are expected to fall further while there is limited space capacity available in the short term to meet demand. Russia's energy minister, Alexander Novak, said on Wednesday that more uncertainties could push oil prices higher and the long-term forecast for the oil prices could be only done in late 2018-early 2019. Meanwhile after API data showed a second straight rise in U.S. crude supplies, investors await the Energy Information Administration report later in the day for further direction. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced Wednesday the U.S. is pulling out of a decades-old Treaty of Amity with Iran after a United Nations court ordered the U.S. to lift sanctions on "humanitarian" goods to the Islamic republic. The 1955 treaty between the U.S. and Iran calls for "enduring peace and sincere friendship" between the two nations and established economic relations and consular rights. Iran claimed before the International Court of Justice that the U.S. violated the treaty by re-imposing sanctions after President Donald Trump pulled out of the Iran nuclear deal. Pompeo called Iran's case "meritless" in remarks to reporters and accused Iran of "abusing the ICJ for political and propaganda purposes." "Iran is attempting to interfere with the sovereign rights of the United States to take lawful actions necessary to protect our national security," Pompeo said. He added, "Given Iran's history of terrorism, ballistic missile activity, and other malign behaviors, Iran's claims under the treaty are absurd." Pompeo called the decision to terminate the treaty "39 years overdue," referring to the overthrow of the U.S.-backed Shah during Iran's Islamic revolution. The Secretary of State stressed the U.S. would continue to provide humanitarian assistance to the Iranian people but accused Iranian leadership of squandering money to foment terror around the world, launch ballistic missiles into airports throughout the Middle East, and arm proxy militias in Iraq, Syria and Lebanon. "They could be providing humanitarian assistance to their own people but have chosen instead a different path, a path of revolutionary effort around the world showing utter disregard for the humanitarian needs of their own people," Pompeo said. Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif previously called the ICJ ruling a failure for the "sanctions-addicted" U.S. government and a "victory for rule of law" and cited the decision to terminate the treaty as proof the U.S. is an "Outlaw regime." For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Children parliament issues several recommendations concluding its current period [03/October/2018] SANAA, Oct. 3 (Saba) The Children Parliament concluded the works of the 3rd period of this current year on Wednesday under the presidency Nasser Habtour under the slogan organized by the General Secretary of Democratic School during two days. In the end of the period, several recommendations concerning topics interesting to the Yemeni childhood, condemning daily-base crimes of the warplanes of the Saudi-led coalition against them. The parliament affirmed the importance of defending the future of the children in Yemen. The recommendations also included the role played the official authorities to protect the children and supporting them. Other recommendations in the field of education, media, culture, finance, health and agriculture were issued. Ahmed Al-Mutawakel Saba Thousands of farmers on Wednesday ended their 10-day Kisan Kranti Yatra after arriving at Kisan Ghat in the national capital. The Central government allowed them to enter Delhi in the early hours of Wednesday, ending the prolonged standoff between the police personnel and protesting farmers. Led by Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) chief Naresh Tikait, over 400 tractors carrying thousands of farmers reached Kisan Ghat. Tikait declared it as the "victory of farmers" and said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has failed in its "motives". "The farmers remained unfazed despite all the hardships. We have been marching for 12 days now, farmers are tired as well. We will continue to demand our rights but for now we are ending the march," Tikait told. Shouting anti-BJP slogans, the farmers, with blisters on feet, reached Kisan Ghat at around 2 a.m. on Wednesday. The farmers said they have reached an agreement with the Central government, which, according to them, has accepted "most of the demands". They said that their prime demand of increasing the price of crops has been agreed upon by the government. "A formal announcement in this regard will be made within six days by the government," Rakesh Tikait, national spokesperson of Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), told IANS, shortly before the farmers called off their march. The government has also assured the farmers of bearing the costs for the repair of tractors that were damaged during the standoff with the police personnel at Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border earlier on Tuesday. The farmers raised slogans against the BJP-led Central government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They also hailed former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh -- widely regarded as a hero of the country's peasants, and applauded the coming together of farmers. The top leadership of the protesting farmers later addressed the gathering and said that they should be united in their future struggles too. At around 5.30 a.m. on Wednesday morning, the farmers began dispersing from the Kisan Ghat. Amid massive deployment of security personnel at Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border, the farmers reinforced their march to the national capital after obtaining necessary permissions from the administration. Earlier on Tuesday, as the farmers tried to enter Delhi, police stopped them on the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border, triggering violence that left some of them injured. The farmers have a charter of 15 demands including loan waiver and fair prices for crops, which they want implemented without delay. Their demands include complete loan waiver, revoking ban on 10-year-old tractors in the National Capital Region (NCR), reduction in electricity tariff, implementation of the recommendations of the M.S. Swaminathan Commission on remunerative prices and payment of sugarcane arrears among others. The protesters started their 10-day march from Haridwar in Uttarakhand led by the BKU and on Tuesday, they reached the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border. There was heavy deployment of security forces at the border. The Vice Chancellor of the National University of Samoa, Professor Fui Asofou Soo, has defended the high salaries for senior staff at the institution. For instance, the salary of a deputy Vice Chancellor is almost equivalent to that of a Ministrys Chief Executive Officer. An advertisement published in August put the salary level of a deputy Vice Chancellor at $101,908 per annum plus benefits, which is pretty close to a Chief Executive Officers base salary of $112,000 - $115,000, depending on a ministrys budgetary appropriation. Asked why the salary of the Deputy Vice Chancellor and other senior position holders are relatively high compared to other Government bodies, Professor Fui said the salary of the deputy Vice Chancellor is determined by an individuals qualifications and skills. Fui told the Samoa Observer that a deputy vice chancellor has a lot of work he or she oversees, hence why the salary is at this level. In comparing of salaries, I will leave other government organisations but I will compare it to the salary of the Vice Chancellor, he said. The vice chancellors salary is $20,000 more than the deputy vice chancellors salary and it is the same as a C.E.O. salary of any government organisation. Fui also elaborated on the work the deputy Vice Chancellor is required to do. Our university is such a massive one and in here the main objective behind the establishment of the university is to have the childrens education." The reason our university is here is because of the students and then comes another question what are the programmes that are being taught in the university?" This is where we come in with traits or programme such as plumber, electrical and so forth and then we move on to another programme called foundation level, after that then we move on to the next level which is the higher education where we talk bachelors, masters and P.H.Ds. Fui said when all of these programme are put together it requires a lot of work and it also requires someone who has the skills as well as the qualifications to handle the work. He added this is also why the university has two deputy vice chancellors. There is a deputy vice chancellor in academic and research who deals with all the programmes that are being taught in the university, he said. The deputy vice chancellor has to check whether these are the proper subjects for this programme and so forth." Fui said the other deputy vice chancellor is for corporate services and the person deals with the students and whether each lecture rooms have enough desks, chairs etc. This deputy vice chancellor has to see whether the internet is okay whether it is connected to the broadband and whether there are people who have the skill in this area or not." There are also works that have been divided for example there is a division who deals with chairs and desks and they have their own director, there is the finance division and their director and so forth." So all these directors they work to ensure that the university is at its standards that people expected and all of them they are under the deputy vice chancellor in corporate services." So that is the workload that our deputy vice chancellors deal with. Fui said the increasing number of enrolments prompted the construction of new buildings. Parents should take more responsibility to ensure their children under 21 years of age do not participate in TV Bingo. The Gambling Control Authority Manager (licensing regulation and compliance), Auimatagi Karanita Ah Kuoi, said this, in response to increasing public concerns at the policing of the law that prohibits underage children from participating in gambling. Gambling by minors is prohibited under Sect 8 (1) (2) of the Act. A person under the age of 21 is prohibited from gambling. Beyond that it is a parenting issue that is out of our control, she said. According to Auimatagi, the Sinaupualofa Foundation Trust is authorised by the Samoan Gambling Control Authority to operate TV Bingo on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 11.00 pm as a fund raising activity for their Trust. The Sinaupualofa Foundation Trust is licensed by our office pursuant to Sect 4 (3)(1)(b) of the Gaming Control Act 2017 (Act) on 10th September 2018. Gambling by minors is prohibited under Sect 8 (1) (2) of the Act. A person under the age of 21 is prohibited from gambling. The above age restriction relates to any form of gambling and gaming i.e. casino, totalisator, bingo, bonus, raffles, sales promotion scheme, gaming equipment supplier and gaming by telecommunication service providers. Broadcasting TV Bingo at the above time enables parents and guardians to ensure that minors are not watching and playing and should by then be in bed. Beyond that it is a parenting issue that is out of our control, she added. Sinaupualofa Foundation Trust, Kuinimary Tamati, said the purpose of TV Bingo is to assure everyone that mothers and adults are at home to watch the draw and keep an eye on the children. Instead of going out to the Bingo sites, they can play on the T.V. and we have taken every precautionary measure to assure that TV Bingo is not for kids under the age of 21. If you see on TV, we have banners outlining that message and we also announce that prior and during the program, she said. The Ministry of Revenue had an outstanding debt of $87.6 million in the 2014-2015 financial years. The figure is revealed in the Public Account Management Audit report. The same debt was disclosed by the Ministry of Finance a year later, as part of the Governments response to the Parliaments Finance and Expenditure Committees Report, for Financial Years 2015-2016. It is not known what the outstanding debt is for. Contacted for a comment, the Ministry of Revenue C.E.O. Avalisa Viali Fautuaalii declined. (I) regret the delay in replying but please be advised that I cannot make comments yet on this report as Im told by the Legislative Assembly that it has yet to be discussed and endorsed by the Parliament, she said. Until Parliament endorses it as a public document, I regret to advise that I will not be providing any comments on it. The Ministry of Finance, as part of the Governments response to the Parliaments Finance and Expenditure Committees Report 2015-2016, stated that it would try to account for this outstanding. We (Ministry of Finance) disclosed the Ministry for Revenues outstanding debt of $87.6 million. We strive to account this outstanding on the Government System (Finance One), in the future Public Accounts Finance One is the Government of Samoa Financial and Payroll and Human Resource Management Information System). There is work that needed to be done to refine and confirm the balance of this unrecorded debt before we can include it in the overall government ministries receivables, stated the Ministry. The need for cooperation between the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Revenue in order to confirm the outstanding debt with documentation from debtors and an audited figure from the Audit Office was also highlighted by the Ministry of Finance report. The Ministry of Finance said it will look at its legal options with a view to putting in place a reporting framework to ensure proper accounting is done. Nevertheless, Ministry of Finance will review another option on its Legal Reporting Framework to incorporate a requirement for Ministry for Revenue to report their outstanding to MOF for proper accounting and reporting of these figures, stated Ministry of Finance report. Attempts by the Samoa Observer to get comments from the Ministry of Finance C.E.O. Lavea Tupa'imatuna Iulai Lavea on what action is being taken to retire the debt did not get a response when this edition went to print. New Zealand Minister of Civil Defence Kris Faafoi visited the National Emergency Operating Centre (N.E.O.C.) in Tuanaimato upon his arrival in Samoa yesterday afternoon. Together with the C.E.O. of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Ulu Bismarck Crawley and the New Zealand Acting High Commissioner, Nick Hurley, Mr. Faafoi was taken through a presentation by Ulu on the centers recent activities and the highlights before he met on duty staff. Speaking to the Samoa Observer, Mr. Faafoi said that it was good to meet their Samoan counterparts on this trip and that New Zealand government will look at ways to assist N.E.O.C. with capacity building, particularly between their weather agencies. I understand their responsibility when the rain is coming down and another big event happens. To know that we got a strong relationship with them already, through Shane Valley, who is assisting here but we want to see how we can deepen that." We had a quick chat about weather forecasting, things that we may be able to do more of in the future to make sure that we can look after the communities here as we look to do things like this in New Zealand as well, he said. New Zealands Minister of Civil Defence said that they have a good relationship with their Ministry colleagues in Samoa, and reiterated their governments objective to strengthen their ties again to the Pacific Islands, as part of the Pacific Reset Policy, which the Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters announced earlier this year. I think Samoa and New Zealand have been through some pretty big events, our ability to work with agencies to increase their capacity and assist where we can, with resilience of communities is all good work, as we take our responsibilities seriously in the Pacific. Its nice to come and see and meet the troops here, this is the equivalent of a civil defence greet in New Zealand and its always nice to meet the troops who are doing the work when things happen, he added. Mr Faafoi will depart for Tokelau this morning on HMNZS Otago, which is in the region as part of Operation Calypso a five-month mission comprising resource and border protection and defence diplomacy on top of supporting wider New Zealand government initiatives. Mr Faafoi said good governance in Tokelau is crucial to building stronger partnerships between New Zealand, Samoa and Tokelau and it is one of the main messages they will be taking to Tokelau. Traditionally Samoa is the gateway to get to Tokelau, we are concerned about making sure infrastructure-wise, that we got good transportation there. A lot of that deepening relationship actually relies on good governance in Tokelau as well and thats one of the main messages we will be having a talk to the leaders in the three atolls in Tokelau about solid decisions for the future and strong partnerships with the likes of New Zealand and Samoa in the future. From the chilly South Island city of Christchurch, all the way to the big island of Savaii, sculptor Ioane Ioane is ready to present the work that kept him occupied over the last three years. He will present his work at the Centre for Samoan Studies at the National University of Samoa at 12.00 p.m. tomorrow. Ioane is the N.U.S. artist in residence and has spent nearly two months between the islands of Samoa learning the ancient craft of building vaa, starting with the vaaalo. Rumours and whispers led him to Savaii to search for an elder tufuga (carpenter) from whom he could learn, and after two weeks of apprenticeship under a different tufuga, Telaa Telefone Alefosio on Manono, they finally found each other. I saw a vaa on display in a resort, and asked who made it, Ioane said. So someone pointed away and said the old man, so I followed that direction, and followed lots of different people pointing until I finally found him and asked him to teach me. Mulitalo Malu Fautua hardly speaks English, and as a Samoan raised in New Zealand by parents who felt they ought to prioritise English, Ioanes Samoan is minimal. But with the help of Mulitalos wife, and the art of showing, not telling, Ioane was able to learn the skills of building and carving vaa from an expert. For my art, it has been a case of going backwards to go forwards, he said. As a modernist sculptor and performance artist, Ioanes work is typically considered contemporary art. Going back to thousand-year-old crafts and skills was a challenge he needed to embark on. Ioane said for a lot of Pacific artists, there is a revival of the ancient traditions happening, especially when it comes to tools and expertise. The old way was cutting edge, said Ioane. Pacific navigation, using the environment as their map, building vaa with no nails and few tools, that blew the first Europeans away. But that part of the story wasnt written down, and it has to be included in the narrative by Pacific peoples. Ioane said his passion for studying vaa comes from a broader love for the ocean, which he learned from his late grandfather, Leiataua Herbert Phineaso. He was an ocean lover who is now resting in Lepuiai in Manono, he said. My love for my grandfather and his love for the ocean, that is how this all started. Leaiataua was the captain of the Lepuiai fautasi (long-boat Laau ole sauualii) racing boat that competed in the early Samoa Independence Day races. The project of learning to carve and build vaa was recorded every step of the way in video diaries and filming of the workshops. As a relatively new filmmaker, and with a subject who might have been camera shy, Ioane said he learned a lot about where to place the camera to make himself and his tufuga most comfortable. Recording the journey was an important part of a process which has barely begun, said Ioane. Two months is like two minute noodles, he said. It goes very fast. He said he has to return to New Zealand to continue researching and speaking to his peers, colleagues and elders in preparation to return to Samoa and resume his learning. Part of that preparation has to include looking after himself, Ioane said. Surrounding myself with good people, eating well, staying fit, and keep swimming its all important. Bluesky Samoa has doubled the number of 4G sites around Samoa as they work to increase communications coverage around the country. In 2017 Samoa had just 20 sites. But Bluesky Country Manager, Alex Abraham, told the Samoa Observer the telecommunication company has been working quietly in recent months to complete the expensive exercise to increase 4G sites by another 20. Weve also just completed 20 new 4G sites, weve upgraded that. Weve spent a significant amount of money to do that and that was just completed the end of early August. Weve just been quietly doing that but the team has been working very hard to get coverage and put these things in place. Weve got one scheduled for Vaitele and some sites in Savaii like Letui, he said. Mr. Abraham says they are gradually gaining ground on full and quality coverage around the island, from the most populated areas to the remote villages. It costs up quarter of a million to half a million dollars to put in a new site, so its an investment and youve got to be very careful how you choose the sites and it comes down to how many people are in the area. After that we look at where is the area with most growth, and then once you go past fixing those areas, we look at the gaps and how we can cover them. For community-based communication areas in Savaii, who are now on 4G and 3G and some of those villages never had communications before, now they are able to get connected and talk to their families. Hopefully that brings more interaction between their village and the rest of Samoa, but also the rest of the world, he added. In terms of data cost, the public has to wait to see prices of internet services drop further but until then, Mr. Abraham insists that there are more steps to follow in creating a stable and high quality telecommunications environment for that to become a reality in the near future. Its going to get better, Samoa is not increasing subscriptions overall, there are only 100,000 people here using mobile services data. So unless theres an increase of population, were working off a certain base because only a certain amount of people can afford those services. We still have to run a business, theres shareholders that we have to give return back to, so were just trying to find that balance in giving the best deal that we can and obviously try meet our financial commitments to our investors, he said. In the meantime, Bluesky intends to continue introducing more corporate and residential bundles that will give more value for money. They currently have a project underway to install fibre for businesses and Mr. Abraham says that will be happening closer towards the end of the year. So things are happening, again we are just trying to manage our resources. I think better deals will always come, we are not going sit still. Why would an archaeologist and an art teacher leave the comfort of their homes in the United States to live in rural Samoa for two years? For Jackson Huang, 29, becoming a Peace Corps volunteer is a lifelong dream. I wanted to join as a 17-year-old but I wasnt qualified, he said. So I worked in the Air Force for four years, did my bachelors and now I can finally sign up. An archaeologist and geographic information systems specialist in a national park, Huang said he hopes to use some of his expertise here in Samoa, but firstly he is focused on making a difference. Im a little nervous about learning the language because its hard for me to pronounce all the words, he said. Twenty-six-year-old Sarah Reed was an art teacher in Florida before she decided to try a full cultural immersion experience. Learning the language that way is an amazing way to connect and share culture, she said. Ms. Reed said her work as an art teacher showed her the power of art as therapy, and she hopes to have time between English classes to bring some of that to her students too. My passion is with art and children, so that would be perfect, really. The first Samoa Business Network Awards held last weekend in Auckland proved to be an enormous success. Samoan business owners and entrepreneurs from Samoa, New Zealand and Australia were recognised for their excellence and efforts in business while serving and inspiring their communities. The Samoa Business Network was launched to assist a growing trend of Samoan-owned businesses. The awards also marked the networks fifth anniversary in operation. The opening speech by SBN NZ Chairwoman Laura Keil-Hall was tinged with emotion as she thanked her Executive Committee for forming a cohesive and effective team. The SBN has been a pivotal network in connecting Samoa-owned businesses across geographical boundaries, she said. This has been a fundamental purpose of SBN and just as important, has been the desire to promote Samoan businesses and their products to our communities. Host city Auckland was seen as a poignant tribute to the first Samoan migrants from the 1950s onwards who were in search of the Milk and Honey dream. The work ethic of those migrants was remembered and mirrored in the room full of entrepreneurial talent. The night began with a prayer by Reverend Tafesilafai Lavasii and an opening speech by Lautafi Fio Selafi Purcell, the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Labour in Samoa who praised the SBN, describing the night as a testimony to the evolving entrepreneurship of Samoan communities in Samoa and abroad. This colourful and brilliant atmosphere is a magnificent reflection of the value of business communities that Samoa and NZ governments attach to this event, he noted. Tonight we recognise, acknowledge and raise more awareness of Samoan-owned businesses and to celebrate the efforts in enhancing business development with strong evidence that they have successfully secured their fair share of local and overseas markets. Other dignitaries and representatives of the Samoan and New Zealand government were also present including Hon Aupito William Sio (Labour NZ) and Hon. Afamasaga Fonoti Lepuiai Rico Tupai (Samoa) along with stakeholders, business leaders and the wider Pacific business community. On his Facebook page, Hon. Aupito thanked SBNs chairwomen Laura Keil Hall and Afamasaga Jackie Curry for their leadership and acknowledged the evening as an exciting example of Pacific communities creating their own opportunities to generate two-way trade between New Zealand and Samoa. Masters of Ceremonies Tofilau Yolande Ah Chong and Tauiliili Alpha Maiava entertained the audience with introductions and comedic insights. Keynote speaker, author and Former NRL star Sione Faumuina shared positive words of wisdom. Your story is so important as it connects to our next generation of Samoan business owners, he said. They will look at you and think, If she can do it so can I; if he can make a million dollars, so can I...running a business is hard. But we are Samoans. Its in our DNA. He added that it is important for business owners to share their mistakes and errors just as much as their successes as this will help other people who aspire to start a business. The big winners of the night included a three-award sweep by Samoa Stationary and Books (SSAB) winning Peoples Choice Award, Samoa Based Business of the year and the SUGA Businesswoman of the year for CEO Tofilau Fiti Leung Wai. Shoe company founder Gustavia Lui of Staavias Limited walked away with the Young Entrepreneur of the Year award. Start Up of The Year was awarded to Manutui Alex Talopau for his financial consulting business ARBEZ Group. Excellence in Hospitality went to Auckland and Melbourne Catering company DVine Banquets whose stunning presentation in Samoan food has become popular with corporate organisations. MYRIVR took out the Excellence in Innovation award for its popular social services app which has received widespread mainstream and Pacific media attention throughout the year. Entertainer Cindy of Samoa delighted guests with her rendition of Simply the best which was deemed fitting for the occasion. Keil-Hall emphasised that the SBN team are committed to ensuring that Samoan communities are able to benefit from their collective work. She says the networks pooling of knowledge and resources are beneficial to budding entrepreneurs as they grow and develop their businesses. Samoa may be a small island developing state in the Pacific but its influence is transnational, global and ever growing. Nowhere is this seen more than in the world of business. We would like to thank and acknowledge our amazing sponsors who have been supporting and encouraging our SBN Event Team throughout the last four weeks and on the night of the Event. Our Major Sponsor Pacific Media Network (Niu FM & 531 PI) for all the lead up promotional support for the Event, promotion of our Finalists on your shows, and the Live Feed on Facebook. Our Associate Sponsors, SUGA Magazine, Bluwave, Emotions Events, RISE2025, Tanoa Tusitala Hotel, and Supporting Sponsors EMD Samoa, N5 Consulting, Taumeasina Rentals, Rimani Samoa, Samoa Airways, Eveni Pacific and TV3 Samoa. We would also like to acknowledge the following companies and individuals who provided support services which enabled us to produce the Finalist Video Profiles & facilitate the TV3 delayed coverage Jandal Media (David Unoi), Promo Pictures (Ronette Van Heeswyk) and NetVo Samoa (Togisala Tony Sua Leota). Special acknowledgement to Laureen Lees and her team at Rimani Samoa, who worked tirelessly on our beautiful Executive Team Uniform and female MC, Uini Purcell of Jovi Studio for Hair & Makeup services, and Eveni Pacific for dressing our male MC, band and volunteers. Finally thank you to our Finalist prize sponsors as follows: RISE2025, Taumeasina Island Resort, Sinalei Reef Resort, Tanoa Tusitala Hotel, Eveni Pacific, Le Lagoto Resort (Savaii), Sky City Grand Hotel and Levi Plumbing. The delivery of this Awards was truly a team effort, adds Afamasaga Jackie Curry. Our team was working around the clock in unison together across four countries to bring this event to life. This is an example of how we can pull together as Samoan business people and professionals to create amazing things together, that we would not be able to achieve alone. When a Samoan person performs a service for their country they will go above and beyond the call of duty. As the beautiful Samoan proverb goes E lele lava le toloa ae maau i le vai. Our Samoan business people and professionals will go far out into the world to achieve their business goals, but they will always return home wanting to contribute. Below is a full list of winners for the SBN Samoa Business Network Awards 2018: 1. Excellence in Small Business - WE Accounting & Business Services Ltd (Auckland, NZ) 2. Excellence in Construction & Trades - Levi Plumbing (Auckland, NZ) 3. Excellence in Hospitality - Dvine Banquets (Auckland, NZ & Melbourne, Australia) 4. Excellence in Professional Services - Home Graduates ECE Ltd (Auckland, NZ) 5. Excellence in Innovation MYRIVR (Auckland, NZ) 6. Young Entrepreneur of the year (NZ) - Gustavia Lui - Staavias Ltd (NZ & Australia) 7. Start Up of the Year - ARBEZ Ltd (Tauranga, NZ) 8. Samoan Based Business SSAB - Samoa Stationery & Books (Samoa, American Samoa & Auckland, NZ) 9. SUGA Business Woman of the Year (International) - Tofilau Fiti Leung Wai SSAB (Samoa) 10. Peoples Choice Award Favourite Business (International) WINNER - SSAB (Samoa) 1st Runner up - Arilei Couture (Samoa) 2nd Runner Up - Staavias Ltd (NZ & Australia) PALU, Indonesia (AP) The Latest on a powerful earthquake and tsunami that hit part of central Indonesia (all times local): 5:50 a.m. Australia's government says it will send more than 50 medical professionals to Indonesia to help with the aftermath of a devastating earthquake and tsunami as part of a 5 million Australian dollar ($3.6 million) aid package. Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne told reporters in Washington: "We will be working very closely with the Indonesian government to make sure that the support we are providing is highly targeted." She says: "Australia is considering further support for the disaster, with the death toll expected to rise and millions affected by the crisis." Payne says she has been in contact with her Indonesian counterpart Retno Marsudi and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison is continuing talks with President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo about possible further support. ___ 12:50 a.m. The U.N. says its humanitarian office is reporting that "needs are vast" following the earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia, with people urgently requiring shelter, clean water, food, fuel and emergency medical care. U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said Tuesday that U.N. and relief agencies are on the ground or en route. He said the agencies are working closely with the government to provide technical support. Haq told reporters at U.N. headquarters in New York that water is the main issue because most of the water supply infrastructure has been damaged. He says the Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has asked the U.N. children's agency, UNICEF, to send social workers to the affected area to support children who are alone or became separated from their families. Haq says the World Health Organization is warning that a lack of shelter and damaged water sanitation facilities could lead to outbreaks of communicable diseases. ___ 2:50 p.m. Indonesia's disaster agency says the death toll from an earthquake and tsunami disaster on a central island is now 1,234. Agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho updated the figure at a news conference in Jakarta on Tuesday afternoon. The magnitude 7.5 earthquake and the tsunami it generated struck Palu and nearby areas on central Sulawesi island. Nugroho said 799 people are severely injured. He said the communities of Sigi and Balaroa have not been counted yet, meaning the toll is likely to rise. ___ 2 p.m. One of the first evacuation flights from a quake-devastated region of central Indonesia has landed in East Java. The C130 military transport aircraft that arrived at a military airport Tuesday carried dozens of people, including injured victims needing further care and treatment. It left from the city of Palu, where hundreds of people are waiting still to be evacuated. Andi Wijaya, the airport base commander in East Java, says seven aircraft were ready to evacuate but crews had to be summoned to prepare for the flights. The situation is increasingly desperate in the severely damaged areas of central Sulawesi island where people are running short of food, fuel and other essentials. Friday's magnitude 7.5 earthquake and the tsunami it generated caused at least 840 deaths but some areas outside Palu have yet to be reached. ___ 12:50 p.m. Australia's government has given financial aid to help victims of Indonesia's earthquake and tsunami and was talking with Indonesian authorities about sending more. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said 500,000 Australian dollars ($360,000) in initial funding was given to the Indonesian Red Cross for the most obvious emergency aid needs, such as tarpaulins. Australia's ambassador was consulting the Indonesian government on more support. Morrison told reporters in the west coast city of Perth that Australia was looking at how to best fit the needs of its neighbors in their time of need and that Australia's support wouldn't only be in the short-term. Indonesia's president has authorized the acceptance of international help, with generators, heavy equipment and tents among the most-needed items. Officials have said the European Union, United States and China have also offered help. ___ 12:45 p.m. Residents in the disaster-devastated Indonesian city of Donggala say people there are hungry and the central government must urgently get aid there. The city was among those hit in last week's earthquake and tsunami, but aid has been slow to arrive due to the difficulty in reaching it. Survivors in Donggala say they worry they have been forgotten as attention has been focused on the city of Palu, which has been easier to reach. With supplies running out, local administrator Kasman Lassa says people were taking food and other essentials from shops Tuesday. Lassa says: "Everyone is hungry and they want to eat after several days of not eating." He says people going into shops "should take only cake, bread, rice. Do not take chairs, or television. Again, for cake, bread, rice, they can take it. The store owner also allows them to take food." The confirmed death toll of 844 is expected to rise as authorities reach areas that were cut off by the disaster ___ 10:20 a.m. Two shallow earthquakes have occurred near the eastern Indonesian island of Sumba, but no tsunami warning was issued. The temblors Tuesday occurred nearly 1,600 kilometers (990 miles) south of the area heavily damaged by a powerful earthquake and tsunami Friday on central Sulawesi island. The U.S. Geological Survey said the first quake was magnitude 5.9 and the second one about 15 minutes later was magnitude 6.0. State news agency Antara reported that one bridge was damaged in Wula Waijelu, but there were no other immediate reports of damage. About 750,000 people live on the island, located in eastern Indonesia in East Nusa Tenggara province near East Timor. Indonesia is a vast archipelago stretching a similar distance to that between New York and London. It is located on the seismically active "Ring of Fire" and is frequently struck by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. ___ 8:50 a.m. Desperation is visible everywhere in areas heavily damaged by an earthquake and tsunami, four days after the disaster devastated parts of Indonesia's central Sulawesi island. Signs propped along roads read "We Need Food" and "We Need Support," while traffic was snarled by people waiting for fuel. The confirmed death toll of 844 is expected to rise as authorities reach areas that were cut off by the disaster. The magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck at dusk Friday and generated a tsunami said to have been as high as 6 meters (20 feet) in places. Search-and-rescue teams combed destroyed homes and buildings for any trapped survivors, but they needed more heavy equipment to clear the rubble. Nearly 50,000 people have been displaced from their homes in Palu alone, and hospitals were overwhelmed. Salega Easts Member of Parliament, Olo Fiti Vaai, says the location of the planned Tiavea airport is not suitable for aircrafts and will be dangerous for air travellers. Relying on his experience as Samoa Airport Authoritys Technical Manager prior to entering politics, the MP said he alerted Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi and the Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure to the risks to no avail. I have 18 years of experience and I understand very well how the specs of an airport should be, and where it should locate and I telling you that space is very dangerous in terms of shear winds." But the problem is when if I talk to Tuilaepa about these things he does not understand, even the Minister of Works dont understand." As you can see all our airports here, they are lying east to west and the reason being is because of the easterly winds that come from that way." I have never seen an airport that faces north to south, they are built facing east to west because it measures the landing and the taking off of the plane, he said. Olo said the terrain, close to where the proposed airport will be built, is mountainous and can get foggy to the detriment of an aircraft. That is one of the foggiest locations I know, he said. Fagalii airport is okay but up there, especially in the evening, which means if we were to build an airport there a lot of people will lose their lives. The decision by the Government to award a $3.57 million tala contract to local company Aldan Civil Engineering Company Ltd to build the airport came under scrutiny. Olo said the funding could have been saved and not wasted on developments that dont last long. This is just the same as the Satitoa Wharf, I was the one who totally disagreed with the building of that wharf. But what happened Tuilaepa said I dont know anything and look at it now, not even two years since that wharf was opened and its gone with the wind and a waste of more than $60million tala The annual maintenance of another two airports on Savaii was also raised with Olo describing the Governments decision to maintain them as a waste of public funds. Up until now not a single aircraft has landed there and yet every year the Samoa Airport Authority is spending $200k just to maintain those two airports every year and yet only birds are landing on those airports and I am sure Savaii does not want to see birds landed on their airports. Its just a waste of money, waste of tax payers money maintaining those airports and yet they are not being used, he added. A man who rescued two girls from their abductors has asked parents to be vigilant and watch out for their children, especially young girls. Liua Vaasili Savai'inaea, 27, of Salailua Savai'i told Samoa Observer in an interview yesterday, that he was returning home from a volleyball match at Falelauniu last Saturday afternoon when he came across a white van. On my way home, I took a short cut around that area and I came through one of the roads that is opposite from a tyre repair at Safune road at Vaitele," he said. I was aware about a van that is going around looking for young girls but I didnt think something was going to happen there." So I came through that road and while coming down a small hill, I saw from a far a white van parked next to a bush there, and I know there are no families in that particular area." I didnt really notice it and I didnt think that this was the van that is allegedly going around Vaitele looking for young girls, he said. Savai'inaea said he heard the voices of screaming girls when he approached the van and saw two men struggling to push two girls into the vehicle. As I came closer to the van, I heard voices of girls screaming and thats when I saw two guys, trying to pull two girls inside their car, but the girls were fighting these two guys." I quickly jumped on the side of the road, picked up some rocks and started throwing against the van and I was running as well. The first rock hit the back window of the car and it broke, and thats when I saw a female jumped inside the van." So it was a female and two males that were trying to push the girls inside the van. I knew it was a female because I heard her calling out to the two guys outside to push the girls inside, he added. A second rock, which Savaiinaea threw at the van, hit the side of the vehicle and forced one of the abductors to let go of one of the girls. The second girl ran off after the other abductor, who saw Liua running towards them, loosened his grip on her. I ran after the van but it sped off so I stopped and looked around and tried to find where the girls were but I couldnt find so I came home. Savaiinaea said he has reported the matter to the police and is now appealing to parents through social media to watch out for their children as the White Sunday weekend approaches. But his recent Facebook post cautioning parents has already led to him getting threatening phone calls. This was Monday night, they were threatening me, and the person who called said I am now their target because I ruined what they were doing. It doesnt bother me to be honest, as long as I know I am doing the right thing and I know I did because I know us Samoans, even if we are not blood related we always help each out. He said the abductors look afakasi and even the person that called him to make the threats did not speak fluent Samoan. I just want to warn our people especially parents to please look out for your children. These girls were lucky I was there at the right time but let us not take this lightly, he said. The police released a statement on Monday night saying they have launched an investigation into reports of an alleged abduction attempt reported by members of the public. The Samoa Police Service has proactively approached witnesses to the alleged abduction posted by members of the public on social media. "This matter was not reported initially to Samoa Police Service. However, the information that Samoa Police Service has received so far is assisting police in launching an investigation into this matter. Associate Minister Peseta Vaifou Tevaga has declared there is no conflict of interest in his company being awarded a multimillion tala contract to build an airport runway. Peseta is the major shareholder of Aldan Civil Engineering Company Ltd, which was recently awarded a $3.57 million contract by the Tenders Board to build the runway for an airport at Tiavea. Ruby Tevaga, Allen Tevaga and Danny Tevaga are minor shareholders in the company. Peseta is the Associate Minister of the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and is also the Associate Minister for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Office of the Attorney General, and the Public Service Commission. Speaking during a press conference he convened at the Fiame Mataafa Faumuina Mulinuu II (FMFM II) building yesterday, in response to recent reports on the issue by Samoa Observer, he admitted that Aldan Civil Engineering Company Ltd is owned by his family but was adamant that there is no conflict of interest. This is a family business and of course I am not involved in the tendering process in any way. It is my son is in charge of everything including the paper work. I am just a shareholder, and if my children need me to work, I will work." There is no conflict. I told you, it is my son who signs the biding and tender documents, not me. I am not involved in any way I am just a shareholder." Again this is a family business. It may be a conflict of interest in the view of the public, yet I was never involved in the tendering process, he said, in response to questions from Samoa Observer. The Associate Minister also emphasised that there is no law prohibiting him or any other Member of Parliament from getting involved in business. There is no law and you should go and visit the Electoral Commissioner Lemisio. He will lay out the law to you and you will not find anything in there saying that Associate Ministers cannot be shareholders in any business. The company Aldan Civil Engineering Company Ltd was established in 1990 with Peseta indicating that he has been a shareholder of the company, prior to entering politics. Again there is nothing wrong with me being a shareholder, there is no law that prohibits that." When he was asked if a law should be enacted to ban politicians from owning shares in private companies to avoid conflict of interest situations, he said he was not interested in what laid ahead. I am not talking about the future. I am talking about now and again there is no law that bans me from being an owner of a business, he added. VATICAN CITY (AP) Pope Francis urged Catholic bishops to dream of a future free of the mistakes of the past as he opened a global church leadership meeting Wednesday amid renewed outrage over the priestly sex abuse and cover-up scandal. Yet down the block from the Vatican's synod hall, about two dozen abuse survivors staged a sit-in, demanding their cause be taken up at the meeting and voicing outrage that some of the delegates had covered up for abusive priests. "Make 'Zero Tolerance' Real," read one protest sign. Francis welcomed more than 250 priests, bishops and cardinals as well as 34 young Catholics to a monthlong meeting on ministering to future generations, urging young and old to listen to one another without prejudice. He prayed for God's help to ensure the church "does not allow itself, from one generation to the next, to be extinguished or crushed by the prophets of doom and misfortune, by our own shortcomings, mistakes and sins." The Oct. 3-28 synod comes amid new revelations about decades of sexual misconduct by priests and cover-ups in the U.S., Chile, Germany and elsewhere. That has sent confidence in Francis' leadership to all-time lows among the American faithful. A new survey by the Pew Research Center found that just 31 percent of U.S. Catholics felt the pope was doing an excellent or good job in addressing the abuse issue, down from 45 percent in January and 55 percent in 2015. It has been a disastrous year for the pope on the abuse front, after he botched a prominent cover-up scandal in Chile before changing course. More recently, he has been accused of rehabilitating an American ex-cardinal who pressured seminarians to sleep with him. Those cases, coupled with the release of devastating studies about decades of abuses and cover-ups in Pennsylvania and Germany that predated his papacy, have fueled doubts about his oft-stated pledge of having "zero tolerance" for that, since implicated bishops remain in place. "Pope Francis talks about 'zero tolerance,' and that bishops who cover-up should be removed and put on trial," said Alessandro Battaglia, who was 15 when he was abused by a Milan-area priest who last month was convicted and sentenced to over six years in prison. The current archbishop of Milan, Mario Delpini, testified at the trial of the Rev. Mauro Galli that he had transferred Galli to another parish rather than report him to police or keep him away from other potential victims, as Battaglia's family had requested. Despite publicity about the case, Francis named Delpini archbishop of Milan in July and named him a papal delegate at the synod. "What is this 'zero tolerance'?" Battaglia asked at the protest Wednesday. "If he wants to give a sign of zero tolerance and coherence and credibility, remove him (Delpini)." Among those participating in the protest were the hearing impaired victims of the notorious Antonio Provolo Institute in Verona, Italy, where deaf children were sodomized for years by Catholic priests and brothers. The victims have found no justice even though Francis and the Vatican were informed of their plight in 2014. They are now preparing a case to take to Italian prosecutors. "We think young people should question the way the church has dealt with this in the past," said Matthias Katsch of the Ending Clergy Abuse global advocacy group. Francis didn't refer directly to the abuse scandal in his homily at Mass or later Wednesday in his opening speech to the synod. He did, however, call for an end to the "scourge of clericalism" the culture that puts clergy on a pedestal and unaccountable to their flocks, which Francis has blamed for the scandal. "Clericalism is a perversion and is the root of many evils in the church," he told the delegates. "We must humbly ask forgiveness for this and above all create the conditions so that it is not repeated." Francis choked up during his homily when he welcomed two Chinese bishops to the gathering, the first time Chinese bishops have attended a Vatican synod. That was made possible thanks to a landmark agreement with Beijing over bishop nominations that unified the Chinese Catholic leadership for the first time in decades. Discount grocer Aldi is rolling out delivery service in San Diego, teaming up with Instacart to bring goods straight to its customers doors. The modern service is the latest upgrade for the German grocer, which has amassed a cult following in the U.S. in recent years. The store has become popular with consumers for its no-frills shopping experience, which contributes to its low prices. Ordering groceries online will relieve consumers from two cornerstones of the Aldi experience: paying a quarter for your grocery cart and bringing your own bags or boxes. To order, the customer fills a virtual cart with grocery items online or through the Instacart app. The shopper then chooses a window of time for delivery, with options as quick as one hour from ordering. Instacart generally charges customers a fee of about $6 per order, although prices range from $3 to $15 depending on availability and time of day. Customers placing more than two orders monthly can get unlimited delivery by purchasing Instacart Express for $149 a year, or $15 a month. Our partnership with Instacart and the expansion of our e-commerce options are more ways we are meeting the growing needs of todays shopper, who wants high-quality food at unbeatable prices, said Jason Hart, CEO of Aldi U.S., in a statement. Advertisement Aldi has five locations in the county, the newest of which opened in San Carlos in late August. More San Diego locations are in the works, but the company isnt disclosing specifics, only saying that a few stores are expected to debut in the coming months. An Encinitas location is the works for 333 N. El Camino Real, according to real-estate tracker CoStar. This year, Aldi is unpacking a $5 billion expansion plan that includes remodels of existing locations and $3.4 billion for new stores across the country. The privately owned company has 1,800 stores across the country, and aims to have a total of 2,500 stores by 2020. San Diego is part of the firms concerted push to make the foreign name more well-known in the Southern California market, where it operates 56 stores. Business brittany.meiling@sduniontribune.com 619-293-1286 Twitter: @BrittanyMeiling Just over a quarter of San Diegos largest publicly traded companies have all-male boards of directors. But that may change soon under a new law signed Sunday by California Gov. Jerry Brown. The law requires publicly traded corporations headquartered in California to include at least one woman on their boards of directors by the end of 2019. The goal of the law is to close the gender gap in the corporate world, but it could face legal challenges. Brown acknowledged potential legal flaws in a signing ceremony over the weekend. In San Diego, 13 of the 46 local companies listed on the Russell 3000 index have all-male boards as of June 30, said Annalisa Barrett, a lecturer at the University of San Diego who studies corporate governance. Advertisement Thats an improvement from 2017 when 20 of 48 San Diego Russell 3000 companies had no women on their boards. The progress is a bit misleading, said Barrett, who is also chief executive and founder of Board Governance Research LLC. While a few local companies added women to their all-male boards last year including Viasat, Bridgepoint Education and Pico Holdings the improvement stems largely from changes in the mix of local companies on the Russell 3000 an index of the largest publicly traded companies in the U.S. based on market capitalization. San Diego is home to many publicly traded companies that are too small to be included in the Russell 3,000 index, said Barrett. There are many microcap companies in San Diego that do not have women on their boards. Many of San Diegos largest companies Qualcomm, Realty Income, ResMed, Cubic Corp. have at least one woman as a director now. A handful of San Diego companies have three women directors, including Jack-in-the-Box and Illumina. Sempra Energy has the largest number of female directors locally, with five women on its 14-person board. Diversity and independence on corporate boards is being driven in part by large institutional shareholders, particularly for Russell 3000 companies. They are pressuring companies that they invest in to make changes in governance practices, and companies in the larger market cap ranges are responding to those requests by their investors, said Barrett. Local Russell 3000 companies with all-male boards include American Assets, a real estate investment trust; broadband chipmaker MaxLinear; and Bank of the Internet parent Axos Financial, among others. Axos, America Assets and MaxLinear did not respond to requests for comment. By July 2021, the new law calls for at least two women to sit on boards with five members, and three women must be on boards with six or more members. Companies that miss the targets face fines of $100,000 for a first violation and $300,000 for subsequent violation. The California Chamber of Commerce and about 30 business groups opposed the law. Public companies typically want a variety of skills on their boards, said Christina de Vaca, chief executive of the Corporate Directors Forum in San Diego, a non-profit that works to educate and support board members. But increasingly, they want different viewpoints as well, said de Vaca. The ability to have a variety of perspectives when you are making decisions is so important, she said. It is not just the skill sets. It is the varying perspectives that really enriches the dialog. The lack of women on corporate boards, she said, stems in part from a lack of women in top executive positions at companies. Once that changes, there will be a bigger pool of women candidates to choose from for board seats. A quarter of Californias publicly traded companies do not have a woman on their boards, according to Hannah-Beth Jackson, D-Santa Barbara, who introduced the legislation with Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins, D-San Diego. That percentage is on par with San Diegos ratio for larger public companies. Because the region as well as the state has an abundance of smaller, microcap firms, the overall percentage is likely higher, said Barrett, the University of San Diego lecturer. Biotechnology, a key industry in the region, also is a field where companies tend to want a specific, narrow skill set that sometimes leads to all-male boards, she said. Half of the 25 largest San Diego biotech companies do not have women directors. From my experience of 20 years looking at boards, the biotech industry is much more likely to have a concentration of directors who are all from the biotech or science field as opposed to other industries, she said. Three local biotech firms, however, have two or three women directors Halozyme Therapeutics, Arena Pharmaceuticals and Obalon Therapeutics. In addition, biotech industry organizations and trade groups are working to support women in the field, said Ken Wechsler, an associate partner with compensation consulting firm Radford Aon. You need to make sure it is the right person for the board, and in certain industries, there are going to be more men, he said. But with the push to get more women in biotech, that is going to change. It just wont happen overnight. Business mike.freeman@sduniontribune.com; Twitter:@TechDiego 760-529-4973 Cubic Corp. has won a $394 million contract to deliver next-generation public transportation payment technology to the Bay Area, including enabling the use of smartphones to tap-to-pay for fares. The San Diego company signed the multi-year deal last week with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission to upgrade the Clipper smart card and overall fare payment system used by 22 transit agencies in the Bay Area, including BART, buses, ferries and subways that move 825,000 passengers per weekday. Cubic has been operating fare collection for Bay Area transit agencies for nearly a decade, taking over from another company that was struggling to deliver, said Matt Newsome, vice president of the western region for Cubics Transportation Systems. With this new contract, Cubic will replace older fare readers and other equipment, as well as add wireless communications to buses that lack connectivity. The work will take place over the next two to five years. Advertisement They have some legacy (equipment) on buses and tram cars thats over 15 years old, said Newsome. We are upgrading that and putting wireless communications on a lot of buses. At same time, Cubic will roll out technology will allows riders to pay fares using their smartphones and more easily manage their accounts online. The upgrade also will reload Clipper transit cards faster and serve up real-time transit information. Cubic is working with Microsoft, its cloud services partner, on the contract. Microsoft will provide financial, analytic and customer management software as part of the back-office platform. The system also includes open-source portal so apps developed by other companies can plug onto the platform. The goal is to eventually allow consumers to pay for all their transportation needs from bus fares to ride sharing from Uber to dock-less bike/scouter rentals from one account. Cubic is among the largest providers of fare payment systems used by some of the worlds largest mass transit agencies, including London, New York, Sydney and Chicago. Recently, the company has won major fare systems contracts in Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, Washington D.C., and Brisbane. This contract win reinforces Cubics position as the industry leader in advanced transportation payment and information systems, enabling Cubic to move more than 40 million passengers a day around the world through our solutions and services, said Cubic Chief Executive Bradley Feldmann in a statement. Cubics shares ended trading Wednesday up 56 cents at $71.59 on the New York Stock Exchange. Business mike.freeman@sduniontribune.com; Twitter:@TechDiego 760-529-4973 Software startup Tourmaline Labs raised $2 million from angel investors Monday, making it the second local company to score investors attention in the past week for an AI platform to track commercial vehicles. The company raised $1.5 million of the round from Tech Coast Angels, a group of early stage investors in Southern California, and $500,000 from ClearVision Equity Partners, a family office that opened in San Diego last year. ClearVision previously invested $1 million in seed money for Tourmaline in 2017. Tourmaline is developing software that can collect mobility and transportation data from a drivers cellphone, which then gets reported back to employers. Unlike others in the telematics space, Tourmalines users dont have to install special equipment in their vehicles to collect driver data. The AI technology is proven and the company already had a strong recurring revenue model in place, said Tech Coast Angels President Dean Rosenberg. In addition to the technology, we were impressed with the management team and the results that they have already achieved. Advertisement The new cash will be used to grow Tourmalines sales and support teams, said the companys CEO Marc Brungger. This Tourmaline deal is the second telematics investment San Diego saw in a matter of days. On Sept. 27, Microsofts venture arm M12 led a $21 million round for Netradyne, a startup founded by two former Qualcomm executives. Business brittany.meiling@sduniontribune.com 619-293-1286 Twitter: @BrittanyMeiling Two San Diego campuses received a top national honor for high-performing schools. On Monday, U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos recognized Carmel Valley Middle School and the San Diego Jewish Academy Lower School as Blue Ribbon Schools for 2018. They were among 12 California campuses to receive the national honor. According to the California Department of Education, students at Carmel Valley Middle School scored 93 points above the baseline for English language arts and 103 points above the baseline for math in 2017. During that year, 93 percent of English learners made progress toward English proficiency. Its website states that it offers strong academics, flexible scheduling, integrated and exploratory curriculum, and an adult advocate for each child. Advertisement San Diego Jewish Academy Lower School, a private school also located in Carmel Valley, is not represented on the state school database. Its website states that the school offers comprehensive, personalized education. Our state-of-the-art facilities support deeper learning, and our intimate classroom environment inspires students to ask insightful questions and apply what theyve learned to formulate real-life solutions, the website stated. The national Blue Ribbon award recognizes high performing schools in two categories, including those that receive top scores and high graduation rates across all student groups, and those that close the gap in test scores between subgroups of students, and the overall student body. Both San Diego campuses received awards as Exemplary High Performing Schools with overall top scores across all student groups We recognize and honor your important work in preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives, U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos said to the award recipients, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Education. Congratulations on your students accomplishments and for your extraordinary commitment to meeting their unique needs. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has operated for 36 years, and awarded honors to more than 8,800 schools. This years recipients will be recognized at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 7 and 8. deborah.brennan@sduniontribune.com Twitter@deborahsbrennan Declaring that residents will never be required to abandon their beachfront homes, Del Mar city officials agreed this week to submit a sea-level-rise plan to the California Coastal Commission that omits a state-mandated managed-retreat approach. Instead of retreat, officials said they will rely on existing seawalls and future sand replenishment programs to protect the hundreds of vulnerable homes on or near the beach and the mouth of the San Dieguito River at the northern end of the small coastal city. Managed retreat is not part of this plan, and its not something we are going to agree on, Amanda Lee, the citys senior planner, told the Del Mar City Council at its meeting Monday. The city was required to study managed retreat, which we did, and found it not workable for the city. The decision puts the city at odds with the Coastal Commission, the state agency established by voters in 1972 to protect public access to the beach and regulate coastal development. Without an approved sea-level-rise plan, Del Mar could become ineligible for millions of dollars in federal grants for sand replenishment efforts and disaster relief or prevention efforts. Advertisement Also, the Coastal Commission could deny permits requested by the city or private residents to build or replace seawalls and other development projects. It appears to be a gamble Del Mar is willing to take. If they prevail, other cities may follow suit. The Del Mar City Council agreed Monday, on a 3-1 vote with Councilman Dave Druker opposed and Councilman Terry Sinnott absent, to submit an amendment that includes a the sea-level-rise adaptation plan to the Coastal Commission for the citys Local Coastal Program. A Local Coastal Program, certified by the state Coastal Commission, allows a city to approve development projects that otherwise would go to the state agency for approval. When Del Mar adopted its program in 1993, the commission did not require cities to include a plan for adapting to rising sea levels, but much about the issue has been learned since then. Del Mar is more vulnerable to sea-level rise than most other San Diego County communities because it has hundreds of low-lying homes. Residents say managed retreat would never work there because coastal property values are so high, and theres nowhere else for the owners to go. The city has fewer than 4,400 residents and covers 1.7 square miles entirely west of Interstate 5. The policy of managed retreat generally means removing coastal protection devices such as seawalls and rock revetments, along with homes, roads and other threatened structures, away from the advancing sea. In some cases, financial assistance could be available to property owners. Its among a number of policies the commission says coastal communities should consider for adapting to rising sea levels. Many residents, and their attorneys, have argued vehemently during numerous public meetings over the past three years that the city should not include managed retreat in its sea-level-rise adaptation plan. Some have said that to even consider the policy would cause the value of their multimillion-dollar homes to plummet. Druker said the city should take more time to work on its amendment because so many residents are concerned about it. Others said enough time has been spent, and that the city needs to get the adaptation plan into its Local Coastal Program. A Sept. 28 letter to the city from Coastal Commission program manager Gabriel Buhr commends the city for its work on the proposed plan and its emphasis on beach nourishment as an effective and appropriate short-term adaptation strategy. We understand the reasons the city staff has chosen not to introduce managed retreat as an adaptation strategy at this time, Buhr states. We agree that future assessment of additional adaptation strategies will be warranted when new or amplified coastal hazards are realized. In anticipation of these future changes, we do think the city should be establishing thresholds or triggers for when reassessment will occur, he states. No date has been set for the Coastal Commission to consider Del Mars proposed amendment. Some council members said the city should submit its amendment soon to get ahead of other cities working on updates. We are not the only city that is going to be looking for grant funding to implement these strategies in our community, said Councilwoman Ellie Haviland. We need the added protection of having the plan in the Local Coastal Program, she said. Conservative estimates project that the average mean sea level in Del Mar will increase 5 inches by 2030, 12 inches by 2050 and 3.1 feet by 2100. A study released Sept. 12 by the Coastal Commission takes a more dire view, stating that the rapidly melting glacial ice around the globe creates the possibility of oceans rising as much as 10 feet on the California coast by 2100. Also, most studies show sea-level rise is expected to accelerate as the years progress. Some Del Mar residents disputed the studies used by the city and the Coastal Commission. New studies by NASA show sea-level rise to be much less, they said. Some also questioned the maps used by the city to outline the projected effects of sea-level rise and coastal flooding. We have been told over and over that we have good science, and were learning tonight that we dont, said Jerry Jacobs, a Del Mar homeowner for 20 years, urging the council to delay a decision. We have time, we dont need to rush this. Jon Corn, an attorney for beachfront property owners, urged the city not to update its program, saying there is no legal requirement to do so immediately. It will transfer power from the city to the state of California, Corn said. Once you do that, you can never get it back. The state agency will never accept Del Mars adaptation plan until the city includes the policy of managed retreat, Corn said. Mayor Dwight Worden said that the Coastal Commissions certification of Del Mars amendment and adaptation plan is the best way to lock in what the city wants. They cannot put anything into our Local Coastal Program over our objection, Worden said, adding that the state can only suggest changes before certifying the amendment. He backed up Havilands observation that without a plan, the city is less likely to get much-needed federal and state funding. There is limited sand out there, and everybody wants it, Worden said. If we dont have our plan in there, we are shooting ourselves in the foot. Managed retreat has been less of an issue for other San Diego County cities, where fewer homes are built near sea level. Most coastal homes in Solana Beach, Encinitas and Carlsbad are built atop 60-foot bluffs. Those structures eventually also could be affected as waves erode the bluffs. Monterey is cited in Coastal Commission documents as a city that has successfully used managed retreat. That city purchased a number of beachfront structures in an often-flooded area from willing sellers in the 1980s through the early 2000s to open up views of the ocean and create the Monterey Bay Park. Funding from the county, state, Coastal Conservancy, a regional transportation agency and private donations were used to complete the project. philip.diehl@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @phildiehl Marianne Reiner grew up in France in a family surrounded by so many books they joked about sleeping on hardbacks and paperbacks instead of beds. She thinks thats where the dream of owning a bookstore first took hold. And now its coming true, with Friday nights opening of Run For Cover in Ocean Beach. Not that long ago, run for cover was a warning to independent bookstores. Amazon and the lower-cost ease of online ordering had decimated the bricks-and-mortar model so much that by 2000, the number of stores had dropped 43 percent, according to the American Booksellers Association. But in the past decade, theres been a twist to that economic plot line, and the number of independent stores (as opposed to Barnes & Noble and other chains) has been increasing up 35 percent to about 2,300 shops. Advertisement As of Sept. 12, sales this year at independent stores had increased 5 percent from the same period in 2017, the booksellers association said. That trend helped convince Reiner, 44, a former lawyer, to open Run For Cover at 4912 Voltaire St., in a 700 square-foot space formerly occupied by a hair salon. The store will carry new fiction and non-fiction titles, as well as young adult and childrens books. People have shown that they want a community space where they can find books, and also other readers, she said. They want to be able to meet authors, have story time for their children, hold book club meetings. Reiner said her store plans to do all those things, and others. It will also house a coffee counter, selling beverages and baked goods from local makers. Shell employ four part-time workers. Run For Cover joins a book-selling market in San Diego that has seen its share of ups and downs. Several have opened in recent years (The Book Catapult in South Park, Verbatim in North Park, La Playa Books in Point Loma) while others have closed (Fifth Avenue Books in Hillcrest, Adams Avenue Book Store in Normal Heights). Ocean Beach hasnt had a general-interest bookstore for at least a decade. Reiner, who has lived in O.B. for 20 years, said residents have made it clear to her theyre eager for one in a place where shop local is almost a religion. Probably a dozen times a day, people poke their heads into the store while were remodeling and ask, When are you going to open? she said. Its been very heartening. Raised by a father who was a librarian and a mother who was a pediatrician and a bookworm, Reiner worked at a bookstore in France while she went to law school. She remembers it now as the best job I ever had. Those memories came with her when she moved here at the end of 1997 to marry her boyfriend, a San Diegan, and they remained in her head while raising their two children, now 13 and 10, and working as a foreign-language translator. About two years ago, she decided it was time to pursue opening a store. She surveyed residents while deciding which titles to stock, she said. Thats why, for example, there is a section devoted to horror not one she might have picked on her own. Im trying to be a bookseller and not just a customer, she said with a laugh. Sometimes its hard. The stores title comes from her fondness for word play. Not a native English speaker, one of the ways shes measured her grasp of the language over the years is by her ability to understand puns, she said. The Run For Cover signage also includes an owl, not just because its an animal often associated with reading and wisdom, but because Reiners mother, now deceased, wore round glasses reminiscent of the birds eyes and had various representations of owls around the house. Fridays grand opening is scheduled for 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Plans are for the store to be open every day: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday; and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. john.wilkens@sduniontribune.com Lambs Players Theatre which is just coming off a major summer hit with the musical Once now stages the California premiere of a new musical take on Persuasion, the great Jane Austens final work. Writer Harold Taw and composer-lyricist Chris Jeffries premiered the piece at Seattles Taproot Theatre in July. Now, Lambs producing artistic chief Robert Smyth directs Austens saga of romance and second chances in early 19th-century England. The San Diego-based, Broadway-seasoned Allison Spratt Pearce stars as the heroine Anne Elliot, opposite the top local actor (and national-tour veteran) David S. Humphrey as Capt. Frederick Wentworth. With New Village Arts Theatre in Carlsbad opening Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley next month, its looking to be a season of Austen around San Diego County. (Not that the novelists much-loved stories ever really go away.) Advertisement Persuasion When: Performances begin Friday. 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; 4 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. Through Nov. 18. Where: Lambs Players Theatre, 1124 Orange Ave., Coronado. Tickets: $28-$78 (discounts available) Phone: (619) 437-6000 Online: lambsplayers.org. jim.hebert@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @jimhebert Ask Rob Lowe what part of his touring one-man show he likes the best, and hell tell you, basically: The end. Not in a please put me and the audience out of our collective misery and grant us the sweet release of oblivion kind of way, but in a hey, this partys just getting started! kind of way. My favorite part is that every evening ends with a Q&A from the audience, the actor and 80s movie idol says of Rob Lowe: Stories I Only Tell My Friends LIVE, which lands at downtowns Balboa Theatre on Friday. And in my experience, thats been the most fun and the most wild because the questions people come up with are always mind-blowing to me. And it leads to a very raucous evening. Advertisement If you know Lowe, you wont be surprised that his life and career offer up plenty of fodder for questions. You might be surprised hes so game to answer all of them. But then, you can bet the still boyish-looking 54-year-old has heard just about everything by now particularly given the nonstop barrage of brutal jabs he faced a couple of years ago when he was roasted by fellow celebrities on Comedy Central, a takedown he seemed to weather with remarkably good humor. Its a lock that that the live show itself will cover Lowes status as a key alumnus of the Brat Pack, the 80s posse of young actors who came to fame in movies like The Outsiders and St. Elmos Fire, both of which were among Lowes first big hits. Thats a big part of the show, Lowe acknowledges, adding with a laugh: Im a firm believer that if youre asking people to pay money and come see you, you wanna play the hits. And without revealing too much about it, my sense of it is that anytime you could be part of a movement that people are talking about 20 or 30 years later, thats a good thing. A couple of other things people still talk about from that time: Lowes dubious status as a pioneer of the celebrity sex tape, thanks to a leaked 1988 video of him in a hotel-room bed with two female companions he had met in a nightclub (one of whom turned out to be 16, although Lowe said he thought she was 18). And then there was the unforgettable Snow White Episode from the 1989 Academy Awards. That was the over-the-top production number showcasing Lowe and Snow (played by San Diegos Eileen Bowman, who has since become a major force on area stages) traipsing through a trippy kind of Hollywood fever dream, with Lowe as the princesss blind date. As Lowe commented in his 2011 memoir Stories I Only Tell My Friends, from which the live show takes its cues: Did I mention that no one was on drugs when they came up with this idea? Lowe survived the 80s and the excesses that came with it although his career seemed on life support for a while to find a second phase of stardom on The West Wing, Parks and Recreation and other television hits. Given the way both his memoir and its 2014 follow-up, Love Life, cover difficult ground, including family problems and struggles with substance abuse, Lowe says that the big shocker for me when I did the first couple of shows was how funny it was. Its what I tried to do with the books; its meant to be wildly entertaining, funny, but also you come away with this emotion that kind of sneaks up and surprises you. And a lot of that comes around when I talk about my family, or I talk about addiction or recovery and things like that. Lowe is speaking by phone from his home in Montecito, the community near Santa Barbara where he lives with his wife of 27 years, Sheryl, and where they raised their two now grown-up sons. It turns out Lowe heads to San Diego pretty frequently for sportfishing trips with one son, and with friends who keep a boat here. He also surfs here, although his go-to spots are closer breaks such as Hollister Ranch and Rincon. And because hes a surfer whos also Rob Lowe: I was making a movie in South Africa, and I got to surf J-Bay, he says meaning Jeffreys Bay, the fabled righthand point break. It lives up to its reputation, Lowe reports. Its by far the best wave Ive ever been on in my life. Surfings not the only sort of workout he gets: For Lowe, performing live is about keeping that (acting) muscle flexed and toned. And its taking my theater experience to the next level. (Lowes stage credits include one Broadway show and a stint in A Few Good Men on Londons West End.) Theater is being out there on the high wire. Doing a one-man show is being on a high wire without a net. And doing it about your own life sounds a bit like being up there trying to balance a basket of eggs. You want it to be fun, you want it to be light, but you also want some substance and some heart and a little bit of drama, as Lowe puts it. And I kind of think it ticks all the boxes. Rob Lowe: Stories I Only Tell My Friends LIVE When: 7:30 p.m. Friday Where: Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave., downtown Tickets: About $46-$81 Phone: (619/858/760) 570-1100 Online: broadwaysd.com How you know Lowe Some of Rob Lowes most notable film and TV credits: The Outsiders (1983) St. Elmos Fire (1985) Waynes World (1992) The West Wing (1999-2006) Brothers and Sisters (2006-2010) Parks and Recreation (2010-2015) And of course those DirecTV commercials (2014-15), in which Lowe played himself opposite such unfortunate alter egos as Extra Paranoid Rob Lowe, Painfully Awkward Rob Lowe and Scrawny Arms Rob Lowe. Snow in the forecast Rob Lowe used to be sensitive to ribbing about his role in the much-mocked Snow White episode from the 1989 Oscars (which is actually going out on a limb here not so terrible as advertised). Now he embraces it. The show closes every night with that story, Lowe says of how it figures into his live performance. In excruciating detail. Its a show-stopper. You wanna open big and you wanna close big. And that one does it. Lowe, by the way, has not seen Eileen Bowman the San Diego actress who portrayed Snow since that moment 30 years ago. But (spoiler alert) that could change Friday night. jim.hebert@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @jimhebert The San Diego Union-Tribune will mark its 150th anniversary in 2018 by presenting a significant front page from the archives each day throughout the year. Sunday, October 3, 1943 In 1943, 11 men, including nine Marines,were killed in one of the deadliest wildfires in San Diego history. A shift in Santa Ana winds had trapped them as they fought the flames near an embankment along Hauser Creek. Here are the first few paragraphs of the story: 4 MARINES KILLED, 78 HURT IN FIRE Flaming Brush Traps Troops Servicemen Caught as Blaze Sweeps Mountains East of Barrett Lake BULLETIN Camp Lockett officers late last night called for Red Cross nurses and nurses aids and additional medical supplies to be used to treat the 78 men injured in the brush and timber fire in the Barrett lake district, Dr. Paul R. Brust, police surgeon, reported. Four marines died in the flames of a brush and timber blaze which swept the mountainous slopes east of Barrett lake yesterday, and 6 other marine firefighters and two U.S. forest service men were burned, 13 of them critically, George Buxton, forest service fire dispatcher, reported last night. The toll of dead and injured was confirmed by the 11th Naval district. The fire was 45 miles southeast of San Diego. Trapped between steep slopes and the fire line along Hauser creek, the marine were forced to charge through the flames to escape, Buxton said. The fire still was out of control late last night. The bodies of three marines were recovered, and the firefighters who suffered turns were taken to the army hospital at Camp Lockett, near Campo. Fifteen of them later were transferred to the Naval hospital here. The fourth marine died later in Camp Lockett hospital. FOREST MEN BURNED The forest service men who were burned were identified as Buel Hunt, 34, of Linda Vista, in charge of forest service training activities, and Jack Herndon, 56, of Pine Valley, a forest service guard. Both were taken to Camp Lockett with the marines. Identity of the four marine dead was withheld pending notification of their next of kin. Hundreds of soldiers were summoned to augment marine and civilian firefighters and forest service equipment as the blaze swept over more than 2000 acres and raced in the direction of several ranches, Buxton said. His men ordered ranchers whose homes might be in the path of the fire to abandon them immediately. CAUSE UNDETERMINED Flaring up yesterday morning at 10:30, the fire originated in Cottonwood creek, near Potrero, but its cause had not be determined last night, Buxton said. The navy indicated an investigation would be made to determine origin of the blaze if possible. The fire line extended from Cottonwood creek, 3 miles north across the Morena-Stokes valley road to a point near the lookout station atop Los Tinos mountain, Buxton said. View anniversary front pages online at sandiegouniontribune.com/150-years. For more from the Union-Tribune digital archives, go to newslibrary.com/sites/sdub. Searching is free, with registration. A fee is required to view full stories. Ernie Orozco testified that Andrew Brown shot him three times at a City Heights park last year. Another man testified that Brown admitted to the shooting that wounded Orozco and killed Kenneth Williams. With their word, and the testimony of San Diego police homicide investigators, San Diego Superior Court Judge Frederic Link on Monday ordered Brown to stand trial on charges of murder, premeditated attempted murder and great bodily injury, with a number of firearms allegations. The shootings occurred at Teralta Park, over Interstate 15 between Orange and Polk avenues, on Dec. 15, 2017. Brown was arrested in July near 39th Street. Advertisement In a preliminary hearing that opened Friday and concluded Monday, Orozco plainly identified Brown as the man who shot him in the stomach, chest and armpit. The rounds all passed through his body and he spent just one day in the hospital, he said. Orozco said he believes Brown targeted him, thinking he was the boss of a street gang. Deputy District Attorney Miriam Hemming said in an interview that no clear motive for the shootings has emerged. Brown is not facing any gang-related charges. Another witness, Jason Powers, testified that he has been friends with both Brown and Williams for seven to eight years, and was close to Williams family. Powers made it clear that he was testifying against his will, at one point looking at Brown and saying, Im sorry, Im sorry man. I do love you. He said testifying violated his personal code and was wrong on so many counts including that Brown was his boy. Powers said some time in December last year, after the shooting, Brown told him I did it. The witness said he understood Brown was referring to the Teralta Park shooting. The witness testified Brown also admitted he was worried that the man hed wounded was a boss, or a don of a San Diego street gang that claimed the park in its territory. Powers said that at the end of June or early July, he was hanging out as usual at a taco shop near the park and Orosco, an acquaintance, came up told him he knew who shot him. He said, It was your partner with the gold teeth, Powers said, adding that Brown at the time had a dental grill made of gold and that some people gave him a second nickname of Grill. Williams sister, Lavaughn Rawshanda Nicole Williams, was slain a few weeks after her brothers shooting. Her body was found Jan. 13 in an Encanto ravine, where she had been left after being stabbed to death, San Diego police said. She was pregnant at the time. Napoleon Joel Lange, 24, is charged in her death and that of her unborn baby. pauline.repard@sduniontribune Twitter: @pdrepard A sheriffs deputy who was already facing criminal charges of on-the-job sexual misconduct with 13 women must stand trial in a second case, this one involving allegations from three new accusers who came forward over the summer, a judge ruled Wednesday. The decision from Vista Superior Court Judge Daniel Goldstein came after a preliminary hearing with more than two days of testimony, primarily from women who said Deputy Richard Fischer groped them during encounters in North County last year. Fischer has pleaded not guilty and has said the allegations are false. In making the decision to order the case to trial, Goldstein noted that Fischer was in a position of power as an on-duty deputy in full uniform at the time of the alleged encounters. Advertisement That, he said, carries an extraordinary amount of pressure for a female who is alone in these situations where there could not be consent. In court, Fischers attorney, Manny Medrano, said the case in essence amounts to a he said, she said, and called it a money grab. All three new accusers came forward with their allegations months after prosecutors had charged Fischer with sexual misconduct involving 13 women. One of the new accusers said the deputy forced her to perform a sex act. The 16 accusers are all suing or say they plan to sue the county. The county has settled four cases for about $900,000. The remainder of the cases are on hold. Afte the hearing, Medrano said he and his client respectfully disagree with the judges decision to order the case to trial, but are going to vigorously defend this case in front of a jury. He also said there is an extraordinary amount of evidence that establishes credibility issues for the women who say Fischer behaved inappropriately with them. A prosecutor on the case declined comment after the hearing. Fischer will be back in court Oct. 25, when a judge will consider whether to consolidate the two criminal cases into one. teri.figueroa@sduniontribune.com (760) 529-4945 Twitter: @TeriFigueroaUT Getting spit on by a patient is so common that its hardly worth mentioning. Its the bites, punches, firearms and airborne objects that you really need to watch out for. That was the consensus among the ER doctors roaming the San Diego Convention Center Tuesday afternoon. Thousands of emergency room specialists are in town this week for the 50th annual meeting of the American College of Emergency Physicians, and many were happy to discuss the results of their organizations newly released survey on emergency department violence. Nearly half of those surveyed said they have been physically assaulted on the job, and seven out of 10 have witnessed a colleague subjected to physical assault. In pretty much every case, a patient or a patients family member, friend or other relation caused the violence, which was almost never prosecuted. Only 3 percent of responding doctors said they pressed charges after a violent incident. Advertisement The survey results did not particularly surprise Dr. Gary Vilke, professor of emergency medicine at UC San Diego Medical Center. It was several years ago, but I did get bit in the arm by a patient and the same thing happened to one of our nurses, Vilke said. The spitting, thats just a regular occurrence. Dr. Andrew Summersgill, now working at a hospital in Hawaii, had no trouble doing him one better, recalling an incident treating a New York emergency room patient in the South Bronx who was on several different drugs, lashing out at staff and HIV positive. Im wearing full protective gear, and he breaks free, Summersgill said. He bites through my gear and into my arm. His face was covered with blood at the time, so I got an HIV exposure on top of a bite. Evelyn Figueroa, a nurse practitioner from Las Vegas, recalled a man brought in by ambulance to a hospital where she previously worked in Florida. He was screaming, I want pain medication, I want pain medication, Figueroa said. When doctors refused, the patient pulled out a gun. He was so inebriated that the gun hit the side rail of his bed and fell between his pant legs, Figueroa said. I grabbed the gun, but almost everyone was going crazy. One of our nurses quit because of that. With an estimated 7,000 emergency medicine physicians from all over the world congregating in San Diego, it was not difficult to find plenty of M.D.s with stories of violence on the job to share. But most seemed to see their chances of getting hurt while trying to heal as relatively old news. This stuff, they all said, has been part of the job forever. And thats the point of doing the survey, said Dr. Vidor Friedman, ACEPs president. Health care workers, hospitals and others involved in providing care are too quick to excuse violent bad behavior. Doing so, he said, has gradually created an expectation among the public that violence that would get a person arrested on the street will be tolerated in the emergency department. I think if we have a culture of zero tolerance for violence in our emergency departments, that minimizes a lot of the violence, Friedman said. The overarching goal, he added, is to find ways to stop patients from becoming violent in the first place. Hospitals are increasingly taking steps to de-escalate potentially violent circumstances. Dr. Terry Kowalenko, a Michigan-based emergency physician who has researched ER violence, said that requires helping staff know what warning signs are likely to pop up before a patient takes a swing at his or her caregiver. Having robust security available, and a quiet place for agitated patients to calm down, can all make a big difference in a hospitals violence rate. There is a big subset of people who become violent who didnt come in violent, and often thats a result of how they felt they were treated or not treated, Kowalenko said. Local hospitals have been trying to take this knowledge to heart for years. Janie Kramer, chief operating officer of Sharp Memorial Hospital in San Diego, said the facility saw a sharp decrease in physical violence when it moved to 24-7 security and made a significant investment in security cameras. While verbal abuse is still too common, she said having a significant focus on security really has helped. We do have security in rooms one-on-one with patients if theyre showing signs of violence, and we know that makes a big difference, Kramer said. She said Sharp will pursue charges against patients when they become violent and their behavior is not a symptom of mental illness. But the ACEP survey showed that thats rarely the case. Many of the 3,539 doctors who responded said their hospitals ask them not to press charges after a violent incident. That appears to be changing. It was not too difficult to find doctors on the convention center floor Tuesday who have pushed back in court. Dr. Luis Villegas, an emergency practitioner at Bellevue Hospital in New York, said he felt he could not let a particularly aggressive attack that involved a drug-addicted patient stand. He picked up a monitor and threw it at my head, Villegas said. I managed to catch it, so thankfully I didnt get hurt, but thats when I went through the process of pressing charges. I mean, thats assault. Thankfully, the New York City (district attorney) and the Bellevue Hospital police were fantastic about the process. The ACEP conference continues through Thursday. Health Playlist On Now Video: Why aren't Americans getting flu shots? 0:37 On Now Video: Leaders urge public to help extinguish hepatitis outbreak On Now San Diego starts cleansing sidewalks, streets to combat hepatitis A On Now Video: Scripps to shutter its hospice service On Now Video: Scripps La Jolla hospitals nab top local spot in annual hospital rankings On Now Video: Does a parent's Alzheimer's doom their children? On Now Video: Vaccine can prevent human papillomavirus, which can cause cancer 0:31 On Now 23 local doctors have already faced state discipline in 2017 0:48 On Now EpiPen recall expands On Now Kids can add years to your life paul.sisson@sduniontribune.com (619) 293-1850 Twitter: @paulsisson The city of San Diego will receive $14.1 million for homeless services as part of a new state grant program, Mayor Kevin Faulconer announced in a Tweet on Monday. The citys share is part of $500 million in grants Gov. Jerry Brown agreed to put in the budget as the Homeless Emergency Aid Program, or HEAP. In a Sept. 13 memo to the City Council, Faulconer wrote that an application from his office sought $4.5 million in rental assistance and subsidies, $4.5 million in homeless services, $2 million in capital improvements, $700,000 to help homeless youth and $2.4 million for other projects for a total of $14.1 million. These funds will greatly assist the city address the emergency needs of homeless individuals in all San Diego communities, Faulconer wrote in the memo. My staff will work with the City Council to select qualifying projects and programs, such as expanding and improving upon outreach and housing placement services, providing improved and additional safe parking lots for individuals living in vehicles, shelter and property storage, and enhancing our landlord engagement and rapid rehousing programs. Advertisement The HEAP grant was discussed at a City Council meeting last month as a way to fund 50 more beds to be added to the 200-bed bridge shelter tent operated by Veterans Village of San Diego, one of three bridge shelters operated by the city. Council members at the September meeting agreed to spend an additional $1 million to make staffing changes at the three tented shelters, but didnt commit to using HEAP money for the Veterans Village shelter. Besides the $14.1 million coming to the city, the San Diego Regional Task Force on the Homeless is eligible to receive $18.8 million in HEAP grants, said Russ Heimerich, deputy secretary of communications for the state Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency, which oversees the program. Of that money, $941,000 would be set aside for youth homeless programs, he said. Funding eligibility is based on the percentage of the states homeless in any city and the number of homeless people found in the 2017 point-in-time count, Heimerich said. San Diego has about 6.82 percent of the states homeless population. In the first round of grants announced Monday, Los Angeles received $85 million, Oakland received $8.7 million and Long Beach received $2.9 million. In another category, the Bakersfield/Kern County continuum of care received $2.6 million. A continuum of care represents regions and multiple agencies that receive funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Homeless Emergency Aid Program originally was proposed as a $1.5 billion fund that would have been created by Assembly Bill 3171, which called for setting aside 25 percent of the states $6.1 billion budget surpluse for homeless programs. The bill was authored by Assemblyman Phil Ting, a Democrat from San Francisco. Nannette Miranda, communications director in Tings office, said the bill was dropped after the governor agreed to put $500 million into the state budget to create the HEAP grant program. Faulconer and mayors from the states other 10 largest cities had united in a news conference in Sacramento earlier this year to urge for the passage of AB 3171. Homeless Playlist On Now San Diego hepatitis outbreak continues to grow: 481 cases On Now Homeless entrenched in booming tent city along Santa Ana River On Now San Diego mayor agreed to homeless hub, then delayed, advocates say On Now Homeless outreach in San Diego On Now Video: Street Art: Portraits of San Diego's Homeless #8 On Now In poverty himself, 'Water Man Dave,' is the fearless saint of San Diego's homeless 5:41 On Now Video: Homeless living in cars find safe havens 2:21 On Now Street Art: Portraits of San Diego's Homeless #7 On Now Pitching a tent plan for San Diego's homeless On Now Homeless efforts get $80M boost for various services gary.warth@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @GaryWarthUT 760-529-4939 A San Diego-based assistant U.S. attorney is among the hires in a large class of new immigration judges set to begin hearing cases this month. As part of the Trump administrations push to reduce a continuously growing backlog of immigration court cases, currently more than 764,000 cases, the Justice Department introduced a streamlined hiring plan to bring on more immigration judges. The Executive Office for Immigration Review, the agency within the department responsible for immigration courts, announced Friday that it had hired and trained 46 new judges, bringing the total to 395 nationwide. Anne Kristina Perry, a new immigration judge who worked in the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of California since 1991, will hear cases in the Los Angeles court. She is one of 10 new judges for the Los Angeles court, adding substantially to the 24 judges already assigned there. Los Angeles has the largest backlog of any individual court in the country at more than 73,000 cases. A career prosecutor, Perry was a deputy district attorney in Clark County, Nevada in the early 1980s before becoming an assistant U.S. attorney in Nevada and then California. She was the assistant U.S. attorney who handled a 2001 case in which a seasonal U.S. Forest Service firefighter plead guilty to setting fires in the Cleveland National Forest. Advertisement In recent months, Perry represented the federal government in several cases prosecuting illegal entry and reentry into the U.S., according to court records. The immigration courts in downtown San Diego and at Otay Mesa Detention Center did not receive any of the new hires. One of the new judges, Jaime Jasso, will go to the court in Imperial, which mostly hears cases from Imperial Regional Detention Center. The addition increased the number of judges there from two to three. Jasso worked in private practice as an immigration attorney in Pomona prior to becoming a judge. The recent hires will go first to a mentor court where they will partner with an experienced immigration judge to hear cases before they begin working their own dockets in their assigned courts, according to an official from EOIR. James McHenry, director of EOIR, said he expects the agency to hire additional judges before the end of the year. Immigration Videos On Now New developments in family separation case 9:53 On Now A San Diego woman volunteered as a medic in Texas helping migrant families 2:35 On Now Immigration policy protests in Carlsbad nearly cancelled after permit issue 1:38 On Now When children are separated from their parents at the border, here is where they go next On Now Prospects of a deal for 'Dreamers' may hinge on separating Trump from hard-liners on his staff On Now What is DACA? On Now Border wall prototype contractors selected On Now Video: Ukrainian boxer wins asylum in U.S. On Now 30 apprehended after Border Patrol agents discover tunnel On Now Video: Kurdish diaspora prepare to vote on independence Follow me on Facebook for live updates about immigration news kate.morrissey@sduniontribune.com, @bgirledukate on Twitter President Donald Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi by mocking a woman who has claimed she was sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago. The audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Christine Blasey Fords testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She testified that Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s, when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Fords allegations. How did you get home? I dont remember, Trump said at the rally Tuesday in Southaven. How did you get there? I dont remember. Where is the place? I dont remember. How many years ago was it? I dont know. I dont know. I dont know. Imitating Ford, he added, But I had one beer thats the only thing I remember. Advertisement It marked the sharpest criticism by Trump of Ford since she came forward publicly with the allegation last month. He had previously called Ford a very credible witness. Fords lawyer Michael Bromwich called Trumps attack vicious, vile and soulless. Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? Bromwich tweeted. She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice. Arizona Republican Sen. Jeff Flake said Wednesday on NBC Today that mocking something this sensitive at a political rally is just not right. I wish he hadnt done it, Flake said. Its kind of appalling. Flake is a key GOP vote in the confirmation battle, and while he said last week he would vote to confirm Kavanaugh, he also called for an expanded FBI investigation that resulted in a one-week delay. Flake has not said how he will vote if the nomination comes up this week. The president was in Mississippi on Tuesday looking to use his influence to sway the outcome of a low-profile election that could tip the balance of the Senate. As Republicans fight headwinds ahead of the Nov. 6 midterm election, Trump sought to rally his supporters behind GOP Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, who was appointed to fill the seat of Republican Thad Cochran, who retired in April. She faces three candidates Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bernard Bartee in next months special election for the remainder of the two-year term. Shes always had my back, Trump said. Shes always had your back. And a vote for Cindy is a vote for me. But Trump spent much of the rally lamenting the treatment of Kavanaugh by Democrats, whose attacks, he said, had taken their toll on the judges family. A mans life is in tatters, he said. Of Democrats, he added, These are really evil people. He even raised questions about the drinking habits of Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy in an attempt to turn the tables on Democrats who have gone after Kavanaughs beer drinking. Trump told the crowd they should do an online search for Patrick Leahy slash drink. Leahys office didnt immediately return a message seeking comment Tuesday. Some Republicans and White House allies have suggested the allegations against Kavanaugh can be potent political fodder in the run-up to Nov. 6, animating GOP voters who have so far lacked the same motivation to head to the polls as their Democratic counterparts. Republican officials and the White House expect Hyde-Smiths race to go to a runoff under the states jungle election rules that force a showdown between the top two finishers if no candidate wins at least 50 percent of the vote on Election Day. With Republicans defending majorities in the House and Senate next month, officials cast Trumps visit as an attempt to get ahead of a potentially perilous situation. Officials said Trump is seeking to boost Hyde-Smith as close as possible to the 50 percent threshold and lend momentum for a possible runoff. Depending on how Republicans perform on Nov. 6, the eyes of the nation could fall on a Nov. 27 Mississippi runoff in what could become an expensive and high-profile race to determine control of the Senate. Your vote in this election will decide which party controls the United States Senate, Trump said. A vocal minority of the crowd Tuesday backed the other conservative in the race, McDaniel, a state senator, and booed Hyde-Smith when Trump introduced her. They launched into occasional chants of We want Chris. Earlier Tuesday, Trump told electrical contractors gathered in Philadelphia that his economic policies would translate into more jobs for their ranks as he highlighted a new trade deal among the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Were in the midst of a manufacturing renaissance something which nobody thought youd hear, Trump said in a speech to the National Electrical Contractors Association Convention a day after celebrating the new North American trade deal. In fact, North America already is a manufacturing powerhouse. The United States ranks No. 2 in the world behind China in manufacturing output. Mexico ranks 11th and Canada 13th, according to United Nations numbers pulled together by the Brookings Institution. Trump calls the new trade agreement USMCA, for U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Like YMCA or U.S. Marine Corps with an A at the end, he explained. He said he doesnt want to use the previous name, NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, which he contends cost American jobs and railed against during his 2016 presidential campaign. The new trade deal still must be approved by Congress. We are finally rebuilding our country, and we are doing it with American aluminum, American steel and with our great electrical contractors, he said. Trump said the strong economy means more jobs for our great electrical contractors. Before departing the White House, Trump tweeted, THE ONLY REASON TO VOTE FOR A DEMOCRAT IS IF YOURE TIRED OF WINNING! Authorities at the Pentagon found at least two packages suspected of containing ricin, a poison made from castor beans, a spokesman said on Tuesday. The Secret Service is also confirming that a suspicious envelope was addressed to President Trump. In a statement Tuesday evening, the Secret Service says the envelope addressed to Trump was not received at the White House, nor did it ever enter the White House. The agency did not speak to the contents of the envelope or where it was received on Monday. The White House had no comment. Advertisement Pentagon spokesman Chris Sherwood said the two envelopes found at its mail screening facility had been found Monday. One envelope was addressed to Defense Secretary James N. Mattis, who is traveling in Europe this week, and the other to the Navys top officer, Adm. John Richardson, a Defense official said. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the official wasnt authorized to speak publicly before the FBIs release of its findings. Neither envelope entered the Pentagon. The mail screening facility is on the Pentagon grounds, but is separate from the main building. Another Pentagon spokesman, Col. Rob Manning, said all U.S. Postal Service mail received at the screening facility Monday is under quarantine, but poses no threat to Pentagon personnel. Ricin is part of the waste mash produced when castor oil is made. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, if it is made into a partially purified material or refined, ricin can be used as a weapon capable of killing people under certain circumstances. UPDATES: 5:45 p.m.: This article was updated with details on a suspicious envelope sent to President Trump. 11:20 a.m.: This article was updated with details on who the envelopes were addressed to and when they were found. This article was originally published at 10:50 a.m. A woman who owned a business that provided customers with a safe space for releasing their aggression was beaten to death by her estranged boyfriend, authorities say. Donna Alexander, who recently appeared on Real Housewives of Dallas to talk about her Anger Room company, was hospitalized on Sept. 21 with severe head injuries and died three days later. Nathaniel Mitchell was initially charged with aggravated assault, but the charge was later upgraded to murder. Mitchell told cops that she slipped and hit her head after taking a shower, according to an affadavit obtained by the Dallas Morning News. He said that they had just taken a shower together around 3 a.m. in her Grand Prairie home when she lost her balance. He said he tried to stop the bleeding before taking her to the hospital. Advertisement However, investigators say the evidence does not support Mitchells account of what happened, according to the Morning News. A window was broken and blood was found in the home. Mitchell is being held at the Tarrant County jail without bond. She kept praying to God to fix him, Alexanders sister Lauren Armour told People magazine. She kept saying [in the journals], I know he has problems, I know that he has post-traumatic stress, but hes who I want to be my husband. Please fix him. The 34-year-old Alexander launched the Anger Room in Dallas in 2011. It is a facility where people pay to relieve stress by breaking objects such as printers and televisions. Customers wear protective equipment. It was featured on Real Housewives last month. It does serve as a release for tension and aggression, Alexander told The Associated Press in a recent interview. It works on you mentally, physically and spiritually. Its an additional outlet. Alexander said she would set up a whole room to look like an office or a living room. The favorite room setting is an office, she said. Alexander, who is survived by two children, had plans to expand the Anger Room to Richardson, Texas and Kentucky, according to People. She was committed to helping others, her sister said. All she ever wanted to do was just help people, Armour told People. It didnt matter what their background was if she had it, she would give it. With News Wire Services Who says cats are the only ones who get nine lives? Five years after going missing, a pet dachshund is back with her attentive family after she was discovered by an animal control officer 20 miles from where she disappeared. The beloved pooch, now 17 years old, was located in a Norwich, Conn., parking lot. Lady was reunited with her loving owners, Rick and Michelle Riendeau, after the discovery of a microchip embedded in her. Advertisement We thought she was gone, Rick Riendeau told the Norwich Bulletin. Shes the greatest dog weve ever had. The owners live in Brooklyn, Conn., located 20 miles from Norwich. Despite having lost most of her hearing and sight, Lady was thrilled to be in the loving arms of her owners. When Lady wandered off, Rick Riendeau feared she has been killed by wolves in a nearby wooded area or was just preparing to die. He was especially thankful for the hard work of animal control Officer Donna Gremminger, who helped lead Lady back to the Riendeaus. They have to love what they do, and it must be tough work, he said. Im sure it doesnt always turn out with a happy ending like this. Lady became a member of the family in 2001 on a family trip to Arizona, Riendeau told the Norwich Bulletin. Our kids are in their 20s now, married with kids of their own, said Riendeau. I really hope she gets along with the grandkids. Gremminger remarked that the local animal control accepts 300 dogs annually, mostly lost ones that do return to their families, but rarely as long as five years. Oscar Hernandez, who crossed the Mexican border illegally in 2004, and his wife, Maria Eugenia, waited three years for a marriage interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Before the interview was over, Hernandez had been detained by ICE. I went to the immigration appointment with a lot of confidence because it was an interview. I never imagined they would take my husband away under arrest, Maria Hernandez told the Miami Herald. We are trying to do the right thing. The Hernandezes were married three years ago after dating for four years. The interview, which included a statement from their joint bank account, a marriage certificate and wedding photos, was meant to prove to ICE that their union is legitimate; Maria Hernandez is a U.S. citizen and had filed a petition that would allow Oscar to become a legal citizen. He is my biggest support. He has been with me in good times and bad times, Maria, who has multiple sclerosis as does her son told the Herald. If they deport him, I could say that I would follow him to Nicaragua. But how am I going to take care of my disease there? How are we going to pay for the medicine? Advertisement Oscar Hernandez, who financially supported his family, was arrested, processed and released by border patrol after he crossed into the U.S. in 2004. His wife said he never got the letter ordering him to appear before an immigration judge. When he failed to show up for his court date, his deportation was ordered. His attorney, Jessica Shulruff Schneider, told CNN that shes working to get him released. This is not just any ordinary case. This is a situation of a wife that has a debilitating disorder, multiple sclerosis, and a son that has the same condition, and both of them require specialized care and support from their family, she said. Mr. Hernandez as her family was that support system. Dont worry, its just President Trump texting you. At 2:18 p.m. Wednesday, Trump will instruct the Federal Emergency Management Agency to send an alert to every cell phone in the United States: Presidential Alert: This is a test of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed. The President will not originate this alert, say, from his mobile device, a senior FEMA official said on a conference call Tuesday. You would not have a situation where any sitting president would wake up one morning and attempt to send a particular message. Instead, the alert system is expected to be used in emergency situations, like a coordinated attack on our major cities across the country or some other type of public peril that is ongoing in the country at the time. Advertisement FEMA said in a press release that the notification will be sent through the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and Emergency Alert System (EAS), the same systems used for Amber Alerts and weather warnings. Theres no way to turn the alert off; any cell phone that is turned on and within range of an active cell tower will receive the notification. Last week, three New Yorkers filed a lawsuit against Trump and FEMA administrator Brock Long, claiming the alert violates the First and Fourth Amendment rights to be free from Government-compelled listening, as well as warrantless, non-consensual trespass into and seizure of their cellular devices. The Presidential Alert system, which is compulsory and cannot be opted out of, violates these rights because it is tantamount to hijacking private property for the purpose of planting a Government-controlled loudspeaker in the home and on the person of every American, plaintiffs Jason Nicholas, Kristine Rakowsky and Liane Nikitovich said in the lawsuit. Its a handwritten letter by a young Brett Kavanaugh, personally describing the binge-drinking exploits of his tight-knit group of friends. The 1983 note, published Tuesday by the New York Times, was sent by Kavanaugh to seven of his high school pals in anticipation of a their beach week at a rented condo in Ocean City, Md. It would probably be a good idea on Sat. the 18th to warn the neighbors that were loud, obnoxious drunks with prolific pukers among us, Kavanaugh wrote to his buddies. Advise them to go about 30 miles. Kavanaugh made it clear he was worried the weeklong gathering might get out of hand. Advertisement If half of Gonzaga/St. Johns starts coming we might have to give the boot or else we might get it ourselves, he wrote. I think we are unanimous that any girls we can beg to stay there are welcomed with open. he wrote, adding the four-dot ellipsis himself. Letter reveals what Yale alum saw at Brett Kavanaughs frat house that shocked him The danger of eviction is great and that would suck because of the money and because this week has big potential, he wrote. In parentheses after the potential remark, he wrote, Interpret as wish. The letter represents another written record along the lines of Kavanaughs Georgetown Prep yearbook that runs counter to the Supreme Court nominees claims he was a virginal scholar-athlete who drank socially in high school but never to the point of blacking out. It was unearthed after multiple women stepped forward to accuse Kavanaugh of sexual assault during drunken parties in the 1980s, claims the former lawyer and federal judge has vehemently denied. According to former classmates interviewed by The Times, Kavanaugh and his friends regularly attended wild house parties in their Washington suburb that often attracted hundreds of people from nearby schools and featured five or 10 kegs. 1 / 26 Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh testifies after he is sworn in before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018 on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. Kavanaugh is claiming his innocence after Dr. Christine Blasey Ford accused him of sexually assaulting her in high school. (Saul Loeb / AP) 2 / 26 Ashley Kavanaugh listens to her husband, SCOTUS nominee Brett Kavanaugh, give his opening statement before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018. (Win McNamee / AP) 3 / 26 Brett Kavanaugh speaks as his family listens his the Senate Judiciary Committee following Dr. Fords testimony on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018. (MICHAEL REYNOLDS / AFP/Getty Images) 4 / 26 Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh gets emotional as he testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee. (Win McNamee / AP) 5 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford swears in at her Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. Dr. Ford is testifying against SCOTUS nominee Brett Kavanaugh following her accusations that he sexually assaulted her in high school. (Pool / Getty Images) 6 / 26 Rachel Mitchell ask questions to Dr. Christine Blasey Ford during the Fords and Kavanaughs Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Pool / Getty Images) 7 / 26 Sen. Kamala Harris, D-CA, listens as Christine Blasey Ford testifies before the US Senate Judiciary Committee in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018. (Pool / Getty Images) 8 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford, left, next to one of her lawyers Michael R. Bromwich, tears up during her Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018. (Pool / Getty Images) 9 / 26 Senate Judiciary Committee members (L-R) Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID), Sen. Jeff Flake (R-AZ) and Sen. Ben Sasse (R-NE) listen to the testimony of Christine Blasey Ford in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Win McNamee / Getty Images) 10 / 26 U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) reacts during testimony from Christine Blasey Ford at a Judiciary Committee hearing at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Sept. 27, 2018. (Pool / Getty Images) 11 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford is hugged by her attorney Debra Katz after she finished testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018. (Andrew Harnik / AP) 12 / 26 A Capitol Police Officer tell supporters of Christine Blasey Ford to disperse as they sit down and block traffic on 1st Street, NE, between the Supreme Court and Capitol in Washington, DC on Sept. 27, 2018. (Cliff Owen / AP) 13 / 26 A protester opposing Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh yells as she is arrested while blocking traffic in Washington, DC on Sept. 27, 2018. (Patrick Semansky / AP) 14 / 26 Emily Brown, from Washington, DC, raises her fist as she protests against Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh outside the Supreme Court on September 27, 2018. (Drew Angerer / Getty Images) 15 / 26 Protestors gather in the Hart Senate Office Building on September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC, in support of Christine Blasey Ford, who is testifying against Supreme Court Justice nominee Brett Kavanaugh at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. (JOSE LUIS MAGANA / AFP/Getty Images) 16 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford listens to her attorney Michael Bromwich as she testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018. (Win McNamee / AP) 17 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford prepares to take a break as she testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington on Sept. 27, 2018. (Andrew Harnik / AP) 18 / 26 Senate Judiciary Committee member Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) (l.) brings coffee to Christine Blasey Ford (r.) as she testifies before the committee in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Win McNamee / Getty Images) 19 / 26 Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) listens to Senator Dianna Feinstein (D-CA) speak at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to be an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Pool / Getty Images) 20 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford, the woman accusing Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her at a party in 1982, testifies during their US Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on September 27, 2018. (SAUL LOEB / AFP/Getty Images) 21 / 26 SCOTUS nominee Brett Kavanaugh received his own share of support of the day of the hearing: here, his supporters gather inside the Hart Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill. (Patrick Semansky / AP) 22 / 26 (l-r) Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), ranking member, Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), and Sen. Kamala D. Harris (D-Calif.) speak before Dr. Fords and Kavanaughs Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Pool / Getty Images) 23 / 26 Protestors rally against Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh and in support of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford outside the Supreme Court, September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Drew Angerer / Getty Images) 24 / 26 Men and women march against US Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh at the Supreme Court in Washington, DC on September 27, 2018. (CHET STRANGE / AFP/Getty Images) 25 / 26 Protesters demonstrate in the Hart Senate Office Building as the Senate Judiciary Committee hears from Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and Christine Blasey Ford on Capitol Hill on Sept. 27, 2018. (J. Scott Applewhite / AP) 26 / 26 Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) (r.) and actress and sexual assault survivor Alyssa Milano are interviewed in the hearing room where Christine Blasey Ford will testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Win McNamee / Getty Images) One night during his senior year, according to classmates who witnessed it, Judge Kavanaugh triumphantly hoisted an empty beer keg above his head, in recognition that he and his friends were well on their way to reaching their goal of polishing off 100 kegs during the academic year an achievement they later boasted about in their yearbook. Kavanaugh declined to comment on The Times story other than to confirm the authenticity of the handwritten letter. This is a note I wrote to organize Beach Week in the summer of 1983, he said, according to The Times. It seems The New York Times is committed to embarrassing Judge Kavanaugh with three-decade-old stories of adolescent drinking, White House spokeswoman Kerri Kupec told the newspaper. A campaign mailer sent out Monday is sparking accusations and criticism from both sides in the San Diego City Council battle between Democrat Dr. Jennifer Campbell and incumbent Republican Lorie Zapf. The race is being hotly contested because a Campbell win in the Nov. 6 runoff would increase the Democrats 5-4 council majority to 6-3, which would allow overrides of vetoes by Republican Mayor Kevin Faulconer on contentious issues. The mailer, which was sent out by the conservative Lincoln Club of San Diego County, asserts that Campbell was sued after committing disability fraud and eventually signed a secret settlement and returned to work. Campbells campaign says the mailer is inaccurate and misleading, partly because it shows pictures of a lawsuit filed against a different Jennifer Campbell who lives in Tennessee. Advertisement Lorie Zapf supports Donald Trumps policies, so its no surprise that shed also use Trumps fake news tactics, Campbell said in a prepared statement on Tuesday. Just like Trump, its time someone held Zapf and her corporate Republican campaign donors accountable for their lies. The Lincoln Club admitted on Tuesday that the wrong lawsuit is pictured in the mailer, but said that the criticisms in the piece are accurate because a lawsuit over disability payments was filed in 2012 against the Jennifer Campbell running for City Council in San Diego. Brian Pepin, executive director of the Lincoln Club, said the club planned to post the lawsuit that should have been pictured in the mailer at publicintegrityleague.com. Campbells campaign confirmed that she was the subject of a federal lawsuit over disability payments, but campaign aides said the mailer significantly distorts the nature of the litigation. They said the insurance company never asked for any money back and continued making payments to Campbell during the litigation. The company, Provident Life & Accident Insurance, simply wanted a judge to determine how much Campbell was entitled to, the aides said. In cases where someone is accused of disability fraud, insurance companies typically stop paying, seek an injunction and request law enforcement intervene, the aides said. Provident didnt do any of those things, they said. Campbell said in a statement that she did nothing wrong or out of the ordinary. Like other San Diegans, I purchased private insurance to protect my children if anything were to happen to me, she said. Unfortunately it did, and it was a painful recovery. Campbell said she suffered four torn muscles in her leg, which made it impossible for her to walk for many months. She said the settlement was Providents choice. The insurance company settled, because they were wrong, and I hope no one ever has to experience what I went through, she said. In contrast, the mailer characterizes Campbell as dishonest and someone working the system to get as much money as possible. Campbell claimed she was unable to work, even though every doctor that examined her said that was false, the mailer says. Even her own doctors said she wasnt disabled. Despite this, Campbell kept collecting checks for over three years. Campbell took $729,900 before she was taken to court. Campbells aides didnt dispute how much she received before the lawsuit was filed, but noted that the payments were over an eight-year period and came from three separate disability policies. They also said the only doctors claiming Campbell wasnt disabled were hired by the insurance company, so they had an incentive to reach such conclusions. Zapf and Campbell are battling for the council seat representing District 2, which includes Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, Ocean Beach, Point Loma and the western edge of Clairemont. The importance of the race has prompted aggressive spending on ads, mailers and polling by the candidates and political action committees working on their behalf. The mailer claiming Campbell was sued for disability fraud was paid for by a committee called Public Integrity League Opposed to Jen Campbell for Council 2018 sponsored by the Lincoln Club of San Diego County. John Hoy, Zapfs campaign consultant, said he didnt know anything about the mailer, hadnt seen it and couldnt comment on its accuracy. Campbell pivoting to attack Councilmember Zapf is just typical political rhetoric and its keeping with Campbells entire campaign, which is all about politics and not solutions, he said. Campbell said its disappointing that Zapfs supporters are making unfounded accusations against her instead of focusing on the issues facing residents of District 2. Campbell, 72, is a retired doctor with no prior political experience although her cousin is David Axelrod, who served as campaign manager to former President Barack Obama. Zapf, 60, would serve a third term on the council if she wins in November, despite the citys term limits policy limiting candidates to two terms. She is eligible for a third term this year because her Bay Ho home shifted from District 6 to District 2 during her first term in office in 2011, when boundary lines were re-drawn something that happens every 10 years with a new census. The idea is that the clock re-sets when a candidate shifts into a new district. Zapf served four years in District 6, is now serving her fourth year in District 2 and is seeking another four-year term in District 2. Campbell also lives in Bay Ho. david.garrick@sduniontribune.com (619) 269-8906 Twitter:@UTDavidGarrick San Diego is paying a consultant $100,000 to analyze the potential costs of a state Supreme Court ruling in August that the citys six-year-old pension cutbacks were not legally placed on the ballot. While getting an estimate of its liability makes sense for the city from a financial perspective, the analysis could also serve as a starting point for negotiations with labor unions over a potential settlement of the case. The results of the analysis might also help the City Council decide whether to pursue a potential appeal of the state Supreme Court ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court on free speech grounds. City Attorney Mara Elliott made it clear an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court was an option shes considering when she recently asked the state Supreme Court to re-hear the case, a necessary formality before a federal appeal can be filed. Advertisement The analysis will give the city a better idea of how much money it will cost to compensate the roughly 4,000 employees hired since 2012 without pensions. The citys pension reform measure, which was approved by more than 65 percent of city voters in 2012, replaced guaranteed pensions with 401(k)-style retirement plans for all newly hired city employees except police officers. San Diego is the only city in California to discontinue traditional pensions for new hires. Previous estimates have put the citys liability somewhere between $20 million and $100 million, but those estimates have been far from precise because of uncertainty about how the case will be resolved. The state Supreme Court in August reinstated a 2015 decision by the state labor board that San Diego must make employees hired since 2012 whole by compensating them for the loss of pensions and paying them interest penalties of 7 percent. The new analysis will include an estimate of how much that will cost, but it could also help the city launch negotiations with the labor unions who filed suit claiming the pension measure was placed on the ballot illegally. Immediate action is necessary to ensure that the appropriate resources are available to support the city in any negotiations resulting from the recent Proposition B decision, Julio Canizal, the citys risk management director, said in an Aug. 29 memo about the new analysis. Mike Zucchet, leader of the citys largest labor union, said by phone that labor leaders are open to negotiating a settlement with the city. Were encouraging the city to work with us on a remedy, which is the next stage in the litigation unless one of these rehearing attempts are granted, he said. We want to get to the table as soon as possible. Zucchet said the new actuarial study seems like an attempt to spur negotiations because it will allow city officials to show labor leaders a number that could be used as a starting point for discussions. Our understanding is the city is taking steps to gather information and assess actuarially the impacts of potential outcomes, he said. Negotiations would likely focus on two main issues: how to compensate employees hired since 2012 without pensions and how to handle new city hires moving forward. Zucchet said, however, that it would be difficult to launch negotiations while the city is still pursuing legal action, particularly the potential appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. Its difficult for the city to both litigate and negotiate at the same time, he said. Were open to anything, but I just dont know how that works. An appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court couldnt happen unless Elliott gets permission from the City Council to pursue that route. Gerry Braun, Elliotts chief of staff, said by phone that Elliott hasnt yet scheduled a time to discuss the matter with the council because she must wait for the state Supreme Court to deny her request for re-hearing of its August decision. The deadline for the state Supreme Court to rule on her re-hearing request is Oct. 31. Braun said it isnt necessarily Elliotts goal to appeal the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court, but that she filed the request for re-hearing to preserve the citys right to pursue that route if the council chooses. Free speech is a potential issue in the case because the state Supreme Court ruled the pension cuts were illegally placed on the ballot based on actions by then-Mayor Jerry Sanders. The court ruled unanimously that Sanders was obligated to meet with the unions for negotiations before placing the measure on the ballot because he used his power and influence as mayor to support the measure. The city argued that Sanders supported the measure only as a citizen, not as mayor, and therefore negotiations with unions werent required. Attorneys for the city could argue Sanders was exercising his free speech rights when he was supporting the measure, which would make it a federal case that the U.S. Supreme Court could consider. david.garrick@sduniontribune.com (619) 269-8906 Twitter:@UTDavidGarrick Federal officials are promoting a new way for pleasure boaters to check in when they arrive in the U.S. from a foreign port or place -- using an app on their smartphone or smart device. Boaters arriving in the U.S. from a foreign place are required by law to immediately report their arrival, federal officials said. The app known as the Reporting Offsite Arrival Mobile app allows boaters to alert U.S. Customs and Border Protection of their anticipated arrival in the U.S. when they are three nautical miles out from the San Diego dock. It is available for free on the Apple App and Google Play stores It was first introduced in a pilot program in August 2017 in a couple of locations and has been allowed to be used in California since August. Advertisement Boaters also can use the app in Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Texas, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Officials say using the app should save time for the agency and for the boaters because there are shorter wait times reporting from a smartphone than calling in. Boaters making entry into California with the ROAM app can now expect a streamlined process when reporting their entry. We look forward to working with the boating community to enhance compliant travel into the U.S., Bill Snyder, port director for the CBP Port of San Diego, said in a statement. So far, the app has been downloaded nearly 38,000 times, and CBP has approved over 25,000 arrivals nationwide. In some cases, boaters using the app may still need to report in person to CBP, when customs duties must be paid or other issues arise. If needed, CBP officers can conduct remote inspections by using video chat. Once downloaded, travelers input biographical information and trip details. Travelers will receive a push notification and an email with their clearance status and the next steps that need to be taken. From an officer standpoint, this is much-needed technology, Snyder said. Twitter: @karenkucher (619) 293-1350 karen.kucher@sduniontribune.com Authorities are offering a $1,000 reward for anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of a man who sexually assaulted a woman in her Pacific Beach home early Monday. San Diego police said a man slipped through an open side window of a home on Chalcedony Street just east of Ingraham Street at about 1:45 a.m. Monday and sexually assault a 28-year-old woman who was sleeping inside. When confronted, the man fled the home in an unknown direction, police said. The man was described as white, about 40 years old, bald and wearing a short-sleeve shirt. Advertisement Anyone with information on the identity and or location of the suspect should call the San Diego Police Departments sex crimes unit at (619) 531-2210 or the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477. Crime Stoppers is offering up to a $1,000 reward to anyone with information that leads to an arrest in this case. Visit the Crime Stoppers website at sdcrimestoppers.org for more information on how to send anonymous web and mobile app tips. Homeless Playlist On Now San Diego hepatitis outbreak continues to grow: 481 cases On Now Homeless entrenched in booming tent city along Santa Ana River On Now San Diego mayor agreed to homeless hub, then delayed, advocates say On Now Homeless outreach in San Diego On Now Video: Street Art: Portraits of San Diego's Homeless #8 On Now In poverty himself, 'Water Man Dave,' is the fearless saint of San Diego's homeless 5:41 On Now Video: Homeless living in cars find safe havens 2:21 On Now Street Art: Portraits of San Diego's Homeless #7 On Now Pitching a tent plan for San Diego's homeless On Now Homeless efforts get $80M boost for various services gary.warth@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @GaryWarthUT 760-529-4939 Border agents helped rescue five unauthorized immigrants last week in East County who were wandering in the desert without water and suffering from heat-related illnesses. Officials said they received a 911 call around 7:45 p.m. last Thursday from a member of the group who reported they were lost in a remote area north of Pine Valley. The call was assigned to agents working out of the Boulevard station and they were able to contact the one of the lost people via a cell phone and determine their GPS coordinates, said U.S. Customs and Border Protection spokesman William Rogers. Federal border agents assist an injured man who became lost in a remote area of the desert without water with four other unauthorized immigrants. (Courtesy of U.S. Customs and Border Protection) Advertisement The group was about nine miles north of Interstate 8, in a very remote area, and told agents they had run out of water many hours earlier and were so thirsty they had resorted to drinking urine. Agents were told one member of the group was unable to walk because of a foot injury and was vomiting and in extreme heat distress. A helicopter crew was sent from CBPs Air and Marine Operations in Yuma to aid in the rescue. While they were on their way to pick up a search-rescue team at the Boulevard station, the crew spotted the immigrants and their signal fire and stopped to assist them. After noting the number of people in the group, the crew went on to Boulevard, picked up two agents, and returned around 9:30 p.m. They flew out the most injured person to get emergency medical treatment at the Boulevard station. Agents used ATVs and even a rail cart provided by a railroad employee, getting permission to cut through some gated-off railroad property, to help group out of the desert, returning early Friday morning. In all, about 13 border agents participated in the rescue effort, which took about 7 hours to execute. Five people identified as Mexican nationals were detained and being processed for removal, including three men, one woman and a juvenile female. The injured person was taken to a hospital for evaluation and treatment before being discharged and released back into the custody of the Border Patrol.. Twitter: @karenkucher (619) 293-1350 karen.kucher@sduniontribune.com The Coast Guard on Wednesday offloaded more than 11 tons of cocaine worth an estimated $300 million that was seized in international waters in the Eastern Pacific in less than a month. Crews aboard three Coast Guard cutters the Stratton, the Seneca and the Active confiscated the drugs from eight smuggling boats from late August to mid-September, officials said. Crew members gathered on the deck of the Stratton early Wednesday at the 10th Avenue Marine Terminal as pallets of cocaine, wrapped in burlap bags, were moved from the ships deck to trucks waiting below. A sample of the narcotics will be tested and retained as evidence as the U.S. Attorneys Office prosecutes 29 people arrested in connection with the smuggling cases. Advertisement The rest of the drugs will be analyzed by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and later destroyed. Eleven tons of cocaine were unloaded from a Coast Guard cutter Wednesday morning at the 10th Avenue Marine Terminal. An armed crew member keeps watch on the ships deck. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) Capt. Craig Wieschhorster, commanding officer of the Stratton, said the seizures not only keep drugs from making their way onto the streets of the U.S. but have other impacts as well. As this stuff gets trafficked, these transnational criminal organizations sow violence and instability in the region and they prohibit legitimate commercial enterprises, he said. All that increases migration pressures on the U.S. southern border. 1 / 16 The flight deck of the USCG Cutter Stratton, which participated in the operation, had the drugs staged for unloading. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 2 / 16 The flight deck of the USCG Cutter Stratton, which participated in the operation, had the drugs staged for unloading. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 3 / 16 Coast Guardsmen wrapped the pallets of cocaine bales so they could be lifted off the ship with a crane. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 4 / 16 Coast Guardsmen wrapped the pallets of cocaine bales so they could be lifted off the ship with a crane. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 5 / 16 The Coast Guard unloaded 22,000 pounds of cocaine seized during drug interdiction operations in the Eastern Pacific from the Coast Guard Cutter Stratton at the 10th Avenue terminal in San Diego under heavy security. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 6 / 16 Coast Guardsmen wrapped the pallets of cocaine bales so they could be lifted off the ship with a crane. The Coast Guard unloaded 22,000 pounds of cocaine seized during drug interdiction operations in the Eastern Pacific from the Coast Guard Cutter Stratton at the 10th Avenue terminal in San Diego under heavy security. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 7 / 16 One of the individual packages of cocaine was visible outside of the bales that were lined up on the flight deck. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 8 / 16 The flight deck of the USCG Cutter Stratton, which participated in the operation, had the drugs staged for unloading. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 9 / 16 The flight deck of the USCG Cutter Stratton, which participated in the operation, had the drugs staged for unloading. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 10 / 16 The Coast Guard unloaded 22,000 pounds of cocaine seized during drug interdiction operations in the Eastern Pacific from the Coast Guard Cutter Stratton at the 10th Avenue terminal in San Diego under heavy security. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 11 / 16 Coast Guardsmen wrapped the pallets of cocaine bales so they could be lifted off the ship with a crane. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 12 / 16 Coast Guardsmen wrapped the pallets of cocaine bales so they could be lifted off the ship with a crane as the media watched. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 13 / 16 The Coast Guard unloaded 22,000 pounds of cocaine seized during drug interdiction operations in the Eastern Pacific from the Coast Guard Cutter Stratton at the 10th Avenue terminal in San Diego under heavy security. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 14 / 16 The flight deck of the USCG Cutter Stratton, which participated in the operation, had the drugs staged for unloading. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 15 / 16 The flight deck of the USCG Cutter Stratton, which participated in the operation, had the drugs staged for unloading. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) 16 / 16 The Coast Guard unloaded 22,000 pounds of cocaine seized during drug interdiction operations in the Eastern Pacific from the Coast Guard Cutter Stratton at the 10th Avenue terminal in San Diego under heavy security. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) The smuggling boats that were stopped included pangas and low-slung go fast boats. They were all found more than 1,000 miles off the coasts of Mexico, and Central and South America. In some cases, Wieschhorster said, Coast Guard crew members were able to surprise those on the boats after using drones to fly over to observe the smugglers. We will roll up on these guys, sometimes under the cover of darkness, and we get onboard without them being aware and we are able to take everything down at once the narcotics, the people and the vessels, he said. Other times, smugglers spotted the Coast Guard personnel and tried to dump their drugs and evade crew members. Weapons were found on some of the boats, but no one used them against his crew, he said. The Stratton was responsible for stopping six boats, while the Active and Seneca each stopped one vessel. Before they act, U.S. officials ensure they are authorized to board the boats and seize the illict cargo. If the boat is carrying a countrys flag, officials will communicate with law enforcement contacts in those countries to determine how to proceed, a Coast Guard spokesman said. Wieschhorster said the Coast Guard works with numerous partner agencies, including the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. intelligence agencies, federal prosecutors and the military, as well as international partners, in its drug interdiction effort. Our U.S. southern border strategy is security starts at sea, the captain said. We can interdict more cocaine in its purest form at sea when we know the smugglers are most vulnerable. U.S. Customs and Border Protection use planes and drones to help to search and locate smuggling boats to be intercepted by Coast Guard cutters. Timothy Sutherland, deputy director of CBPs San Diego air and marine branch, said air crews do long-range surveillance missions and use a wide-area radar that can detect movement out on the water. We are able to detect, we are able to monitor and ultimately we are able to disrupt that activity of the smugglers, he said. Wieschhorster said Coast Guard crews are patrolling an area in the Eastern Pacific that is about the size of the continental U.S. Its a big region. Its a huge area, he said. Having three ships down there is not a lot. Its a big area to cover This is just 30 days worth of effort, he said, pointing to the pallets laden with bricks of cocaine wrapped in burlap. So this happens quite a bit. Twitter: @karenkucher (619) 293-1350 karen.kucher@sduniontribune.com A 46-year-old North County woman testified Tuesday that an on-duty sheriffs deputy groped her inside her a motel room, and that he was aware that an argument at home led the woman to take her school-age daughter there. The woman said the deputy called her several times that evening, saying he wanted to check up on her later, she said. When he showed up at the motel room door, she let him in, and he took her into the bathroom, she said. She said he then groped and pawed at her, as her daughter slept on the other side of the wall. After the deputy left, she testified, I immediately broke down and cried. Advertisement Her testimony came on the second day of a preliminary hearing for Fischer, 32. At the end, Superior Court Judge Daniel Goldstein will determine if the prosecutor presented enough evidence to order Fischer to stand trial. In February, the deputy was charged with sexual misconduct involving 13 accusers, many of whom said he groped them after meeting them while he was on the job. In August, prosecutors filed a second case involving three additional accusers, including one who said Fischer forced her to perform a sex act on him. This weeks hearing is to review the five charges in the second case. Fischer faces upwards of 25 years in prison if convicted on all of the charges in the two cases. The 32-year-old has pleaded not guilty and has strongly denied the allegations, which he has said are false. On Tuesday afternoon, the 46-year-old woman said she fled her home after an argument with her ex-husband, who also lived there. Deputies soon pulled her over after getting a report that she might be under the influence. She was not, and they let her and her daughter go. Later, she said, Fischer called her cellphone and asked if she was OK. She told him she was going to get a room with her daughter. In the hours that followed, he called her repeatedly, and also showed up at the motel three times. In the third encounter, the woman said, she let the deputy into her room, and they went to the bathroom, where he touched and carressed her. She ended up with her cheek to the wall as he pressed her from behind and held her by the back of her neck. She said he then lifted her up and placed her on the sink, pressing against her and groping her. When he left, she said, he told her not to tell anyone and that he could get into trouble. On cross examination, the woman acknowledged that the deputy had not threatened her. Earlier Tuesday, an Escondido woman testified that Fischer fondled her, putting his hand between her legs as he removed handcuffs and let her go after a drunken-driving crash in San Marcos last fall. The 25-year-old woman, who at the time was working as a cocktail waitress, said shed had five or six mixed drinks with whiskey at work. When she drove home, she crashed into two parked cars on Furniture Row. The preliminary hearing is expected to wrap up Wednesday. teri.figueroa@sduniontribune.com (760) 529-4945 Twitter: @TeriFigueroaUT A 31-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence in connection with a head-on collision in Pacific Beach that sent four people to the hospital last month, police said Wednesday. A black 2012 Hyundai sedan was heading east on Garnet Avenue near Gresham Street at about 2 p.m. on Sept. 9 when the driver veered left and crossed into oncoming traffic, colliding head-on with a white 2012 Toyota sedan, according to San Diego police. The Hyundai driver was arrested Sept. 21 at her Chula Vista home, Sgt. Tim Underwood said. The driver, a Chula Vista resident, was booked into the Las Colinas Detention Center in Santee on suspicion of felony DUI, Underwood said. Advertisement She suffered a collapsed lung and her passenger suffered a head injury along with abrasions and lacerations, Sgt. Michael Tansey said. The driver of the Toyota, a 68-year-old man, suffered moderate injuries and his passenger suffered multiple broken bones, Tansey said. Firefighters working to extinguish a blaze that destroyed two sheds behind an Encanto home narrowly missed being hit by one of the outbuildings when it collapsed Tuesday afternoon, authorities said. The blaze erupted for unknown reasons about 11:50 a.m. at a property on Stamen Street near the south end of Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park, and more than two dozen firefighters from San Diego and National City responded to help battle the flames, according to a San Diego Fire-Rescue spokeswoman and a battalion chief at the scene. It took firefighters about 15 minutes to extinguish the blaze, which broke out behind a property with two residences, Battalion Chief Jeff Mitchell told OnScene TV. During the course of the firefight, one of the sheds completely collapsed, nearly on the firefighters, Mitchell told OnScene TV and other reporters. Luckily, we didnt have any injuries. Advertisement The residents of the property were not home when the fire broke out, the flames did not spread to any residences and nobody was injured, Mitchell said. The cause did not appear to be suspicious. Inside one of the destroyed sheds was a familys keepsakes and mementos, according to a son of the woman who lived in the home. Investigators from the Metro Arson Strike Team were probing the cause of the flames late Tuesday afternoon. There was no immediate estimate as to the cost of the damage. Twitter: @Alex_Riggins (619) 293-1710 alex.riggins@sduniontribune.com An employee at a Spring Valley steel business died Wednesday morning after metal beams fell on him, officials said. The victim was reportedly working at West Coast Iron on Jamacha Road when I-beams tumbled from a nearby truck, crushing him about 10:20 a.m., according to Jeanne-Mairie Duval, a spokeswoman for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Emergency crews found the injured man, who didnt have a pulse and was not breathing, between two trucks, a fire official said. He was taken to a hospital, where he died. OSHA will investigate the incident to see if workplace violations contributed to the death. That process could take up to six months, Duval said. Advertisement Twitter: @LAWinkley (619) 293-1546 lyndsay.winkley@sduniontribune.com President Trump lashed out at Christine Blasey Ford during his Mississippi rally Tuesday night, implying her allegations against Supreme Court justice nominee Brett Kavanaugh cannot be believed because she doesnt remember the entire night. I had one beer. Well do you think it was Nope. It was one beer. Oh good. How did you get home? I dont remember. How did you get there? I dont remember. Where is the place? I dont remember. How many years ago was it? I dont know. I dont know. I dont know. What neighborhood was it in? I dont know. Wheres the house? I dont know. Upstairs? Downstairs? I dont know. But I had one beer thats the only thing I remember, Trump said during the rally. Ford, who the President called a very credible witness with very compelling testimony last week, claims Kavanaugh tried to rape her during a high school party in Maryland during the summer of 1982. While testifying in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee, the Palo Alto University professor remembered vivid details about certain aspects of the alleged assault, but not others. Trump claims its a very scary time for young men as assault allegations amass against Brett Kavanaugh Advertisement Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, a Boston-based psychiatrist with decades of research on post-traumatic stress, told the Daily News that selective memory isnt uncommon in such instances. The nature of trauma, the nature of terror is that it overwhelms the brain and the brains coping mechanism but you remember terror. Maybe you dont remember the context, but you remember the terror, he said. Trumps remarks outraged many of Fords defenders, including Mayor de Blasio. @realDonaldTrump attacked Christine Blasey Ford tonight because thats all he has left, de Blasio tweeted. He cant defend his dishonest nominee or the sham of a process. All Trump can do is attack a woman who showed more courage in one day than he has in his entire life. President Trump spoke at a rally in Mississippi Tuesday. (Rogelio V. Solis / AP) But Trump insisted that the gaps of Fords memory mean none of her testimony can be trusted. A mans life is in tatters. A mans life is shattered. His wife is shattered. His daughters, who are beautiful, incredible young kids, he said at the rally. They destroy people. They want to destroy people. These are really evil people. 1 / 26 Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh testifies after he is sworn in before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018 on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. Kavanaugh is claiming his innocence after Dr. Christine Blasey Ford accused him of sexually assaulting her in high school. (Saul Loeb / AP) 2 / 26 Ashley Kavanaugh listens to her husband, SCOTUS nominee Brett Kavanaugh, give his opening statement before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018. (Win McNamee / AP) 3 / 26 Brett Kavanaugh speaks as his family listens his the Senate Judiciary Committee following Dr. Fords testimony on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018. (MICHAEL REYNOLDS / AFP/Getty Images) 4 / 26 Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh gets emotional as he testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee. (Win McNamee / AP) 5 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford swears in at her Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. Dr. Ford is testifying against SCOTUS nominee Brett Kavanaugh following her accusations that he sexually assaulted her in high school. (Pool / Getty Images) 6 / 26 Rachel Mitchell ask questions to Dr. Christine Blasey Ford during the Fords and Kavanaughs Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Pool / Getty Images) 7 / 26 Sen. Kamala Harris, D-CA, listens as Christine Blasey Ford testifies before the US Senate Judiciary Committee in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018. (Pool / Getty Images) 8 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford, left, next to one of her lawyers Michael R. Bromwich, tears up during her Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018. (Pool / Getty Images) 9 / 26 Senate Judiciary Committee members (L-R) Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID), Sen. Jeff Flake (R-AZ) and Sen. Ben Sasse (R-NE) listen to the testimony of Christine Blasey Ford in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Win McNamee / Getty Images) 10 / 26 U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) reacts during testimony from Christine Blasey Ford at a Judiciary Committee hearing at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Sept. 27, 2018. (Pool / Getty Images) 11 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford is hugged by her attorney Debra Katz after she finished testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018. (Andrew Harnik / AP) 12 / 26 A Capitol Police Officer tell supporters of Christine Blasey Ford to disperse as they sit down and block traffic on 1st Street, NE, between the Supreme Court and Capitol in Washington, DC on Sept. 27, 2018. (Cliff Owen / AP) 13 / 26 A protester opposing Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh yells as she is arrested while blocking traffic in Washington, DC on Sept. 27, 2018. (Patrick Semansky / AP) 14 / 26 Emily Brown, from Washington, DC, raises her fist as she protests against Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh outside the Supreme Court on September 27, 2018. (Drew Angerer / Getty Images) 15 / 26 Protestors gather in the Hart Senate Office Building on September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC, in support of Christine Blasey Ford, who is testifying against Supreme Court Justice nominee Brett Kavanaugh at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. (JOSE LUIS MAGANA / AFP/Getty Images) 16 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford listens to her attorney Michael Bromwich as she testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018. (Win McNamee / AP) 17 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford prepares to take a break as she testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington on Sept. 27, 2018. (Andrew Harnik / AP) 18 / 26 Senate Judiciary Committee member Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) (l.) brings coffee to Christine Blasey Ford (r.) as she testifies before the committee in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Win McNamee / Getty Images) 19 / 26 Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) listens to Senator Dianna Feinstein (D-CA) speak at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to be an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Pool / Getty Images) 20 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford, the woman accusing Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her at a party in 1982, testifies during their US Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on September 27, 2018. (SAUL LOEB / AFP/Getty Images) 21 / 26 SCOTUS nominee Brett Kavanaugh received his own share of support of the day of the hearing: here, his supporters gather inside the Hart Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill. (Patrick Semansky / AP) 22 / 26 (l-r) Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), ranking member, Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), and Sen. Kamala D. Harris (D-Calif.) speak before Dr. Fords and Kavanaughs Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Pool / Getty Images) 23 / 26 Protestors rally against Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh and in support of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford outside the Supreme Court, September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Drew Angerer / Getty Images) 24 / 26 Men and women march against US Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh at the Supreme Court in Washington, DC on September 27, 2018. (CHET STRANGE / AFP/Getty Images) 25 / 26 Protesters demonstrate in the Hart Senate Office Building as the Senate Judiciary Committee hears from Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and Christine Blasey Ford on Capitol Hill on Sept. 27, 2018. (J. Scott Applewhite / AP) 26 / 26 Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) (r.) and actress and sexual assault survivor Alyssa Milano are interviewed in the hearing room where Christine Blasey Ford will testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Win McNamee / Getty Images) Two other women have also gone public with allegations of misconduct against Kavanaugh, who has denied all claims. Earlier in the day, Trump said the #MeToo movement has created a very scary time for men, while women are doing great. Its a very scary time for young men in America when you can be guilty of something that you may not be guilty of, he told reporters on the South Lawn of the White House. This is a very difficult time. President Trump during a campaign rally in Mississippi openly ridiculed Dr. Christine Blasey Ford with a parody performance of her testimony before the Senate Judiciary committee despite calling her a very credible and very fine woman just days earlier. The Presidents most recent remarks, delivered at the Landers Arena in conservative Southaven, were a complete reversal from the reserved and neutral comments he made in wake of the grueling Senate hearings on Capitol Hill last week. Ford, a professor at Palo Alto University, testified before the Judiciary Committee that she was sexually assaulted by Trumps Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh during a boozy summer get-together in the summer of the 1980s. Kavanaugh, in his own tearful testimony at lawmakers and slammed Fords allegations as untrue. Here are the Presidents takes, both right after the Senate hearings and earlier this week: Advertisement Christine Blasey Ford and her attorneys Debra Katz, foreground left, and Michael Bromwich, foreground right, take a break during testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 in Washington. (Win McNamee/Pool Photo via AP) (Win McNamee / AP) Sept. 28, 2018 I thought her testimony was very compelling, and she looks like a very fine woman to me. A very fine woman. And I thought that Bretts testimony, likewise, was really something that I havent seen before. It was incredible. It was an incredible moment, I think, in the history of our country, Trump said on Friday. But certainly she was a very credible witness. She was very good in many respects. And I think that I dont know if this is going to continue onward or are we going to get a vote, he added. But again, Im here, so Im not out there watching because I cant be, out of great respect although maybe well go watch together. Okay? Well watch together. The President continued: But I think it will work out very well for the country. I just want it to work out well for the country. If that happens, Im happy. Oct. 2, 2018 I had one beer! Trump said, re-enacting Fords testimony regarding the night of the alleged assault. Well do you think it was Nope it was one beer. Oh good. How did you get home? he asked, taking on the Prosecutors voice. I dont remember, Trump continued, again as Ford. Howd you get there? I dont remember. Where is the place? I dont remember. How many years ago was it? I dont know. I dont know. I dont know, the President said. What neighborhood was it in? I dont know. Wheres the house? I dont know. Upstairs, downstairs where was it? I dont know I had one beer. Thats the only thing I remember. Democrats blasted the White House Wednesday for blocking the FBI from interviewing Brett Kavanaugh and Christine Blasey Ford as part of their investigation into her sexual assault accusations against the beleaguered Supreme Court nominee. Press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders finessed questions about whether or not the two key players in the SCOTUS nomination process would be grilled by the bureau. Both Judge Kavanaugh and Dr. Ford were questioned in the most public way possible by the members of the Senate, who are ultimately the ones who have to make the termination on whether or not they vote for Judge Kavanaugh, White House press secretary Sanders told reporters at her first press briefing in nearly a month, referring to their testimony before the Judiciary Committee last week. If they had additional questions for either one of them, they had a time and opportunity certainly to ask those. Sanders non-denial came in response to questions about a Bloomberg News report that the FBI hasnt interviewed Kavanaugh and Ford in its reopened background probe because the White House didnt give the bureau proper authority to do so. Advertisement Ford one of Kavanaughs three identified accusers alleges she feared for her life as the Supreme Court wannabe drunkenly forced her into a room at a high school party in the early 1980s, groped her and tried to rip her clothes off. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the ranking member of the Judiciary Committee, slammed what she called Sanders confirmation that the White House is blocking the FBI from interviewing Ford and Kavanaugh. Last weeks hearing is no substitute for FBI interviews, especially when you consider the tenor of Judge Kavanaughs testimony, Feinstsein (D-Calif.) said. When he wasnt yelling and demeaning senators, he was making misleading statements that cast doubt on his overall trustworthiness. I dont think that would happen with FBI agents seated across the table. It isnt clear if the FBI has tried to seek approval to interview Ford and Kavanaugh and an FBI spokeswoman declined to comment. Press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders wouldnt deny that the White House prevented the FBI from interviewing Brett Kavanaugh and Christine Blasey Ford in its reopened background investigation. (Susan Walsh / AP) The White House alone has the authority to request FBI inquiries into suspected non-federal crimes, a category in which the allegations against Kavanaugh fit. After refusing Democratic demands for days, President Trump ordered the FBI last week to investigate the misconduct accusations against the nominee. Trump has given mixed messages about the nature of the FBI investigation, saying he wants it to be comprehensive only to cede authority to GOP leaders. The President has indicated whoever the FBI needs to interview, he is fine with that, Sanders said at the Wednesday briefing. But he has also asked that the Senate be the ones that determine the scope of what they need in order to make a decision on whether they vote Kavanaugh up or down. 1 / 26 Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh testifies after he is sworn in before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018 on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. Kavanaugh is claiming his innocence after Dr. Christine Blasey Ford accused him of sexually assaulting her in high school. (Saul Loeb / AP) 2 / 26 Ashley Kavanaugh listens to her husband, SCOTUS nominee Brett Kavanaugh, give his opening statement before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018. (Win McNamee / AP) 3 / 26 Brett Kavanaugh speaks as his family listens his the Senate Judiciary Committee following Dr. Fords testimony on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018. (MICHAEL REYNOLDS / AFP/Getty Images) 4 / 26 Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh gets emotional as he testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee. (Win McNamee / AP) 5 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford swears in at her Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. Dr. Ford is testifying against SCOTUS nominee Brett Kavanaugh following her accusations that he sexually assaulted her in high school. (Pool / Getty Images) 6 / 26 Rachel Mitchell ask questions to Dr. Christine Blasey Ford during the Fords and Kavanaughs Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Pool / Getty Images) 7 / 26 Sen. Kamala Harris, D-CA, listens as Christine Blasey Ford testifies before the US Senate Judiciary Committee in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018. (Pool / Getty Images) 8 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford, left, next to one of her lawyers Michael R. Bromwich, tears up during her Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on September 27, 2018. (Pool / Getty Images) 9 / 26 Senate Judiciary Committee members (L-R) Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID), Sen. Jeff Flake (R-AZ) and Sen. Ben Sasse (R-NE) listen to the testimony of Christine Blasey Ford in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Win McNamee / Getty Images) 10 / 26 U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) reacts during testimony from Christine Blasey Ford at a Judiciary Committee hearing at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Sept. 27, 2018. (Pool / Getty Images) 11 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford is hugged by her attorney Debra Katz after she finished testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018. (Andrew Harnik / AP) 12 / 26 A Capitol Police Officer tell supporters of Christine Blasey Ford to disperse as they sit down and block traffic on 1st Street, NE, between the Supreme Court and Capitol in Washington, DC on Sept. 27, 2018. (Cliff Owen / AP) 13 / 26 A protester opposing Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh yells as she is arrested while blocking traffic in Washington, DC on Sept. 27, 2018. (Patrick Semansky / AP) 14 / 26 Emily Brown, from Washington, DC, raises her fist as she protests against Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh outside the Supreme Court on September 27, 2018. (Drew Angerer / Getty Images) 15 / 26 Protestors gather in the Hart Senate Office Building on September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC, in support of Christine Blasey Ford, who is testifying against Supreme Court Justice nominee Brett Kavanaugh at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. (JOSE LUIS MAGANA / AFP/Getty Images) 16 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford listens to her attorney Michael Bromwich as she testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Sept. 27, 2018. (Win McNamee / AP) 17 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford prepares to take a break as she testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington on Sept. 27, 2018. (Andrew Harnik / AP) 18 / 26 Senate Judiciary Committee member Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) (l.) brings coffee to Christine Blasey Ford (r.) as she testifies before the committee in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Win McNamee / Getty Images) 19 / 26 Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) listens to Senator Dianna Feinstein (D-CA) speak at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to be an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Pool / Getty Images) 20 / 26 Christine Blasey Ford, the woman accusing Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her at a party in 1982, testifies during their US Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on September 27, 2018. (SAUL LOEB / AFP/Getty Images) 21 / 26 SCOTUS nominee Brett Kavanaugh received his own share of support of the day of the hearing: here, his supporters gather inside the Hart Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill. (Patrick Semansky / AP) 22 / 26 (l-r) Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), ranking member, Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), and Sen. Kamala D. Harris (D-Calif.) speak before Dr. Fords and Kavanaughs Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Pool / Getty Images) 23 / 26 Protestors rally against Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh and in support of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford outside the Supreme Court, September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Drew Angerer / Getty Images) 24 / 26 Men and women march against US Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh at the Supreme Court in Washington, DC on September 27, 2018. (CHET STRANGE / AFP/Getty Images) 25 / 26 Protesters demonstrate in the Hart Senate Office Building as the Senate Judiciary Committee hears from Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and Christine Blasey Ford on Capitol Hill on Sept. 27, 2018. (J. Scott Applewhite / AP) 26 / 26 Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) (r.) and actress and sexual assault survivor Alyssa Milano are interviewed in the hearing room where Christine Blasey Ford will testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Win McNamee / Getty Images) The FBI is supposed to deliver its findings to the Senate by Friday. Sources close to the confirmation process say the inquiry could wrap up by late Wednesday and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has made clear he intends to quickly put Kavanaughs nomination up for a floor vote. With a slim 51-49 majority, McConnell (R-Ky.) can only afford to lose one GOP vote without jeopardizing Kavanaughs nomination. Sens. Jeff Flake, Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, all swing-state Republicans crucial for Kavanaughs confirmation, came out forcefully Wednesday against derisive comments Trump had made about Ford the night before. I wish he hadnt done it. Its kind of appalling, Flake (R-Ariz.) said on NBC News Today, referring to Trump going on stage at a political rally in Mississippi and belittling Ford over struggling to recall certain details of Kavanaughs alleged attack. Murkowski (R-Alaska) took it up a notch, calling Trumps comments unacceptable and telling reporters she will take them into account as she mulls how to vote on Kavanaugh. As of late Wednesday, the FBI had interviewed Kavanaugh pals Mark Judge and P.J. Smyth; Deborah Ramirez, who also accuses Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct; and Leland Keyser, a friend of Ford, according to their lawyers and people familiar with the matter. Charles Ludington, who attended Yale University with Kavanaugh, confirmed Wednesday afternoon that he has submitted a written statement at the FBIs request about a fight at a New Haven, Conn., bar in September 1985 involving Kavanaugh. Ludington said Kavanaugh instigated the fight by cursing at a man and throwing ice in his face, prompting Kavanaughs friend Chris Dudley to get in between and hit the man in the head with a glass. I do not remember his exact words as he threw the ice, but they were something along the lines of f--k you, Ludington told the Daily News. Ludington also cast doubt over Kavanaughs tearful appearance before the Judiciary Committee, alleging he didnt testify truthfully about his college drinking habits and knowledge of certain sexually-charged phrases. I have no specific recollection of Brett using the term boofing, but the common understanding of that word while we were at Yale was: to engage in anal sex, Ludington said, echoing comments by Jamie Roche, another one of Kavanaughs college classmates. Kavanaugh testified before the Judiciary Committee that the phrase, which was included in his high school yearbook entry, is a reference to flatulence. Lying to Congress is a federal crime. With Denis Slattery The handwritten letter arrived at the downtown San Diego office of Sen. Kamala Harris anonymously and absent a return address, but its explosive content has further roiled the confirmation process for U.S. Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Some people were outraged at the newest allegation of sexual assault leveled against the federal judge an accusation Kavanaugh denied explicitly and repeatedly in an interview with the Senate Judiciary Committee staff. Others said the two-and-a-half-page tale was little more than a political hit job. Undated, anonymously written letters which are devoid of any pertinent information, except an allegation, are to be ignored, one reader wrote The San Diego Union-Tribune, which reported Tuesday that the nominee was questioned about the letter. How is it possible to verify anything without the necessary info? Identified only as Jane Doe of Oceanside, the author claimed Kavanaugh and another man agreed to drive her home from a party and then sexually assaulted her in the back seat of a car. Senate Judiciary Committee staffers read the letter to Kavanaugh by phone on Sept. 26 and asked him about it, according to a transcript that the committee posted online. At the end, they asked Kavanaugh if he objected to the transcript becoming public, and he said no. Advertisement Experts say every aspect of a Supreme Court nominee needs to be fully vetted before he or she is confirmed for a lifetime appointment to the highest court in the nation. The allegations against Judge Kavanaugh are serious, said Shaun Martin, a University of San Diego law professor who argued three separate cases before the Supreme Court. Every one of them should be taken seriously. Anonymous accusations are among the most difficult claims to verify, he said. Unless the individual who wrote the letter comes forward, there is little that the FBI or Senate can do to investigate, Martin said. So as a practical matter, its all up to this individual. Without someone coming forward, theres little to go on with respect to that particular letter. Former San Diego City Attorney Michael Aguirre, one-time staffer on the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, said that clues in the anonymous letter could lead to identifying the writer. Investigators would need to expend the resources needed. He cited the likelihood that the writer is a teacher in her early 50s who says she is married, a parent and a homeowner who lives in Oceanside. There is enough information in there for the FBI to make a reasonable effort to find out who she is and to keep her name confidential, Aguirre said. He said Judiciary Committee staffers erred by sharing details of the allegation with Kavanaugh ahead of an FBI investigation and the hearing last week. These are serious allegations. You dont want him to know about the allegations before you interview him, Aguirre said. The FBI approaches people without their knowing so they cant rehearse their answers. According to the interview transcript, the conference call appears to have included seven people: Kavanaugh and his lawyer, two staffers each representing Republican and Democratic committee members and a special counsel for the Senate Judiciary Committee. Except for Kavanaughs, the names of all participants in the call were redacted from the document. The transcript notes that Kavanaugh was responding to questions under penalty of felony and participated in two previous private interviews along with 32 hours of public testimony over four days. The transcript shows that Democratic members of the committee repeatedly sought an FBI investigation of the claims and objected to moving forward with the Kavanaugh interview by legislative staffers. At a minimum, we need to hear from all parties and gather all additional evidence, said an aide to ranking committee member Sen. Dianne Feinstein. And again, we want to reiterate that the Democratic members do not believe that this is a fair or sufficient process. The allegations contained in the unsigned letter would clearly be criminal. The author said Kavanaugh was driving and he began groping her while she sat in the front passenger seat. The boy in the back seat clamped his hand over her mouth to prevent her from screaming, she said. Kavanaugh slapped me and told me to be quiet, she wrote. Afterward, they dropped me off two blocks from my home. No one will believe if you tell. Be a good girl, he told me. A spokeswoman for Harris said Monday that the letter was received at the senators San Diego office Sept. 19 and immediately forwarded to the Judiciary Committee chairman, to the ranking member and to the FBI as is standard practice. She declined Tuesday to explain why Harris did not ask Kavanaugh about the allegation when she questioned him at the committee last week. Watchdog Videos On Now Sexual misconduct accusers worry deputy is being protected 6:16 On Now City funded $2-million waterfront bathroom 1:26 On Now Public water district charges customer for legal work, response to records request On Now Video: Tiny homes won't be reused amid housing, homeless crisis On Now Attorney General seeks documentation for Miss Middle East On Now Rep. Hunter probe covers possible fraud On Now Video: SDG&E delaying solar credit for some low-income housing tenants On Now Video: Former San Diego Junior Theatre teacher sentenced for sex with teen girl 0:24 On Now Video: Shelter volunteers believe they were fired for finding a dog a home 0:49 On Now McKamey Manor is leaving San Diego 3:35 jeff.mcdonald@sduniontribune.com (619) 293-1708 @sdutMcDonald Investigation story headline shows bias Re FBI begins new Kavanaugh investigation in earnest (Sept. 30): Here is another biased U-T headline. Why was in earnest added to Sundays front-page headline? Does this assume the previous six FBI investigations were not done in earnest and therefore invalidated? Everyone knows that no matter what happens in one week, no Democratic senator will vote for Brett Kavanaugh even if the FBI finds out that he was Mother Teresa in a former life. Bill Dabbs Advertisement Carlsbad Kavanaugh failed to impress in hearings Judge Kavanaugh was a miserable failure recently during his job interview at the Senate, and also as a sitting judge on the federal court of appeals. His stunningly belligerent demeanor and his lack of temperance alone should disqualify him to be on the Supreme Court. His haranguing of Sen. Amy Klobuchar (Do you have blackouts? No, do you have blackouts?) to Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse I like beer, I drink beer, do you like beer, what do you like?) would probably cause him to be held in contempt as a witness by any other judge. His public ranting in a solemn venue about a hit job by the Democrats and revenge by the Clintons belies key qualities of fairness and open-mindedness we might hope for in a judge at any level. Bill Leonard Del Mar Heights Political agendas played role in attack This does not look like a job interview to the Supreme Court. It looks more like a travesty and mob lynching, and attack and destroy schemes to make sure Brett Kavanaugh does not get the job at any cost. ( Just because of a perceived chance Roe vs. Wade may be limited in scope or overturn). Anyone can say anything; even in an anonymous letter, and it is blown out of proportion. People are taking sides and passing judgment without tangible proofs, simply because of different ideologies. Sad times indeed. Denise Ebipane San Diego Nominees teen years should be off-limits How many of us today would be willing to agree our teenage years were models of good behavior and a reflection of what we were to become? I attended parties, drank beer, was often intoxicated but never committed a crime, much less sexual assault. Since my high school days, I have survived Vietnam, earned a masters degree, raised two successful children and had a successful business career. My point is, utilizing decades-old high school parties or yearbooks instead of a persons worth and what they have contributed as an adult is a stretch. Peter Malaspina Carlsbad What if women had acted like Kavanaugh, Graham People have tried to excuse the angry, emotional and histrionic behavior of Judge Brett Kavanaugh and Sen. Lindsey Graham by saying such was justified because of the unfairness of the accusations, the timing in bringing them forward or because the accusations were about something that happened in high school. Imagine what would have been said if Christine Blasey Ford or Sens. Dianne Feinstein and Amy Klobuchar had behaved in like manner (think Donald Trump vs. Megan Kelley) after being unfairly accused of being part of a conspiracy. My belief is that the two men, like many wealthy, white, powerful males, are extremely frightened about losing their power and control. Women are now trying to take control of their own lives, refusing to tolerate abuse and even running for some of those seats of power. Perhaps those Republican men are afraid that if they dont get Judge Kavanaugh on the Supreme Court another woman might be appointed. G. Jordan El Cajon Kavanaugh does not have the right temperament As the debate about Judge Kavanaugh rages on, I had a thought. Regardless of what the FBI investigation reveals, I believe Kavanaughs past behavior should disqualify him from a seat on the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court. Let that sink in. At worst, hes a sexual predator. At best, he exercised poor choices then and still today. He has repeatedly tried to downplay his college drinking. I rarely drink today as an adult, but while I was in college, it was quite a different story, as with many of my college friends. Why would he feel the need to lie about his college drinking when his acquaintances say otherwise? Did he lie under oath during the most recent hearing? Nino Y. Williams Lakeside Attacks on Kavanaughs personal life were indecent What a disgraceful spectacle by the so-called statesmen senators and congressmen of our country I am ashamed and sickened by the vile and ugly treatment accorded to the highly regarded Judge Kavanaugh. Cant the highest level of representatives in our land be expected to comport themselves with at least some semblance of decency, fairness and justice? Judge Kavanaugh and his family probably thought this ordeal would be tough but that the worst that could happen would be that he was not seated on the Supreme Court. Little did they know that the worst would be much worse than he, or anyone, ever imagined that they would try to utterly and viciously destroy his family, career and reputation. This is what our country has come to? Are we all to now be judged by our yearbooks rather than facts and evidence? Glenda de Vaney Chula Vista Related: Anonymous accusation from Oceanside woman further roils Kavanaugh confirmation Letters and commentary policy The U-T welcomes and encourages community dialogue on important public matters. Please visit this page for more details on our letters and commentaries policy. You can email letters@sduniontribune.com or leave a comment below. Follow @UTLetters on Twitter and UTOpinion on Facebook. Re Trump hails new trade agreement (Oct. 2): For the past two years, Donald Trump has been ranting about North American Free Trade Agreement being the worst deal ever. He fooled the American people and will continue to do so by trumpeting his victory. His triumph in renegotiating and renaming NAFTA into USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) is nothing but a sham. NAFTA remains essentially the same as before. No factory will move back, no new jobs will be created and the trade deficit with these countries will remain the same. The new deal was nothing else but window dressing. If NAFTA was the worst deal ever, than so is USMCA. Out of 2,000 or more free trade items with zero tariffs, Trump took one item for Mexico (autos) and one for Canada (milk) and tweaked them a little, leaving the other 1,999 items alone. Fred Parker Advertisement San Diego Letters and commentary policy The U-T welcomes and encourages community dialogue on important public matters. Please visit this page for more details on our letters and commentaries policy. You can email letters@sduniontribune.com or leave a comment below. Follow @UTLetters on Twitter and UTOpinion on Facebook. The California Coast Act, adopted in 1976, had as a core principle the intent to maximize public access to and along the coast, based on the idea that beaches belong to all Californians. Ever since then, there have been legal fights over wealthy landowners preventing access to the beaches adjacent to their coastal properties. This week, thankfully, what may be the most high-profile of these cases was resolved in a way affirming the right of public access. The fight began in 2008 when Silicon Valley billionaire Vinod Khosla bought 89 acres of coastal property in San Mateo County adjacent to Martins Beach. Khosla padlocked the gate leading to the beach without getting a required state permit, and he asserted that his constitutional property rights outweighed the states authority. Now this claim has been rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court, which on Monday refused to take up Khoslas appeal of lower-court rulings. Khosla has indicated new litigation is likely if the state denies him the permit, but his key legal argument has been repeatedly rejected. Unfortunately, the Coastal Commission hasnt always defended beach access vigorously. In May, the commission allowed Hollister Ranch landowners to mostly block access to 8.5 miles of beach in Santa Barbara County. After facing sharp criticism, commissioners now regret the decision and are planning a new push to require access to the beach, which is near the Gaviota State Park beach, with the help of the State Lands Commission. Its a welcome move. Beaches belong to Californians. Courts and commissions must enforce that. Advertisement Twitter: @sdutIdeas Facebook: San Diego Union-Tribune Ideas & Opinion Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. In this excerpt from our archives, science writer Dr. Paul de Kruif writes about his experience with the greatest pestilence of our time and the devastation left in its wake. Weekly Newsletter The best of The Saturday Evening Post in your inbox! Join Its certainly strange what a few years will do to the way you feel about living and dying, not only about yourself but about others. What shows that up best is the brash way I felt and acted about the flu murder that terrible fall of 1918, compared to my fear of the threat of it now. In France in the fall of the last year of the War, the flu was just beginning to go strong on a rampage that, in one year, killed millions of people the world over. I remember an afternoon that autumn when it was cold and misty, and I felt suddenly weak and rocky, and my fever was 103. Bed was the only medicine that gave you a chance to dodge the flu pneumonia which in less than a year killed far more than were killed in the four years of the war. But this flu, this three-day fever? Flu couldnt kill me. It was not my judgment but my fool luck that it didnt. And at that moment, this greatest pestilence of our time, with an explosive speed that gave it the name of the lightning sickness, was all over the world. Subscribe and get unlimited access to our online magazine archive. Subscribe Today Once he gets on a rampage, this old devil flu is fair to humanity, and he plays no favorites. He will sneak from a bus driver into a banker. He will slither invisibly from an industrial big shot into a jobless pauper. In short, he is, in the broadest sense, democratic. This mysterious sickness that apparently arose from nowhere, to travel everywhere over the world in a couple of months, began by giving you sudden pains in your back and your legs and your head and back of your eyes and a fever and maybe a sore throat and a slight case of snuffles and a curious floppy weakness of every muscle in your body that stayed with you, that was all out of proportion to how sick you thought you were in the beginning. That was about all there was to it in the 1918 summer, just the Spanish flu, just the three-day fever, that was the first wave of it sensational in the number of people it hit and no-account in the number it killed. And then it came back in the late autumn and winter. And millions were sick for a week and got better, and other millions thought they were getting better, and then Then came terror. So that, from Moscow to Philadelphia, and in what you would say were the safest, remotest country villages, there were not enough hearses. So that farmers out in the country wondered why they hadnt seen their neighbors and after a couple of days of wondering went into those neighbors houses to find them all dead, all excepting the baby, sitting in its crib crying, all excepting that perfectly healthy hungry baby and maybe his little brother, still alive, but blue-faced and near to death But you had to go to the cities to see the hell that old devil flu now was raising. Here were people dead in the streets, and express wagons and trucks pinch-hitting for hearses, and the greatest boom ever known in the undertaking business with not within thousands of enough expensive coffins, so that you saw, in the cemeteries, long rows of pine boxes that were dropped into long trenches excavated by digging machines in a fantastic mass production of burying the dead. Now this 1918 winter, the no-account three-day fever had turned serious, now frightful, with schools closed and theaters, and life almost at a standstill, excepting in the hospitals. Here the nurses worked 20 hours a day, if they werent themselves sick and dying. Here the doctors were as puzzled, as confused, as they were frantic. What was this plague that did such strange things to peoples bodies after they were dead, leaving them limp, without rigor mortis, without the stiffness of death? What had happened to the chemistry of their blood while they were sickening and dying so that their blood, not clotting, seeped out of them, sweated out of their bodies after they were dead? People came to the hospitals desperately sick with this pneumonia almost from the beginning of their influenza. Or again they might be getting better of their three-day fever, and then begin coughing; at first it was a short, dry hacking, with them pointing to their breast bones, saying, Doctor, it feels all raw inside here, while their faces got redder and their fevers went back up. Then some would get better. And others would begin to cough up a curious foam that often spurted out of their noses in severe fits of coughing; it was a foam pinkish red, the color of strawberry, and it seemed as if they were drowning in a fluid their lungs poured out into their own air tubes. The faces of these flu people began gradually to turn a curious tinge of blue. It was the color of heliotrope. It was when you saw faces going from dark red to purplish red to reddish purple and at last to absolute purple it was then that you didnt have to look at their fever charts, or feel of their pulses, or listen to their chests with a stethoscope. You could walk through a hospital ward those terrible days and count the faces that were that weird color of heliotrope, and this would be mighty near the number who next day or the day after would be dead. Such was the fate of millions of human beings, from Alaska to Madagascar, when this harmless, terribly contagious, utterly mysterious three-day fever softened up their lungs for the murderous attack of the ordinary microbes of pneumonia. The Flu-Trappers by Paul de Kruif, January 1, 1936 This article is an expanded version of the interview that appears in the September/October 2018 issue of The Saturday Evening Post. Subscribe to the magazine for more art, inspiring stories, fiction, humor, and features from our archives. Pune, India -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/03/2018 -- The Global Dental Bone Graft Market is expected to reach an approximate CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period. Globally the market for dental bone graft is increasing rapidly the main reason for this is the growth is the increase in the aging population. The factors that influence the growth of Dental Bone Graft are the increasing development in technology and the different types of bone graft options such as Autograft, Xenograft, Alloplast/synthetic bone grafts and allograft. According to the British editorial society of bone and joint surgery, bone was the second most common transplanted tissue after blood with an estimated 2.2 million grafting procedures annually worldwide in 2015. However, risk and complications from bone grafting procedures and the high cost of the procedure may hamper the market growth during the forecast period. To Get Sample Report visit https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/867 Global Dental Bone Graft Market, by Key Players Straumann AG Dentsply Sirona Zimmer Biomet Geistlich Medtronic BioHorizons IPH, Inc ACE Surgical Supply Company, Inc. RTI Surgical, Inc LifeNet Health Kerr Dental Dentium Segments for Global Dental Bone Graft Market The global dental bone graft market is segmented on the basis of type, product, material form, application, and end-user. The global dental bone graft market by type is segmented into synthetic bone graft, xenograft, allograft, and demineralized allograft. Synthetic bone graft is further segmented into ceramics, tricalcium phosphate, hydroxyapatite, and others. Demineralized allograft is further segmented bio-reabsorbable and non-bio-reabsorbable. Based on the product segment the market is segmented into bio-oss, osteograf, grafton, and others. On the basis material form, the market is segmented of injectable, granules, and putty. Based on the application the market is segmented into socket preservation, ridge augmentation, periodontal defect regeneration, implant bone regeneration, and sinus lift. On the basis of end-user, the market is categorized into dental clinics, research and dental laboratories, and others. On the basis of region, the global dental bone graft market is segmented into the Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa. The Americas is sub-segmented into North America and South America. The North American region is further segmented into the US and Canada. The European region is divided into two, namely, Western Europe and Eastern Europe. Western Europe is further classified into Germany, Italy, France, the U.K., Spain, and the rest of Western Europe. The Asia-Pacific region is sub-segmented into Japan, China, India, Australia, the Republic of Korea, and the rest of Asia-Pacific. The Middle Eastern and African region is sub-segmented into the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, and the rest of the Middle East and Africa. Regional Analysis for Global Dental Bone Graft Market The dental bone graft market is dominated by Europe owing to the rising healthcare expenditure that contributes to enhancing the market growth in this region. As there is a transition happening in the use of the types of bone grafts for the various restorative & reconstructive dental procedures, the world is adopting the new technologies leading to the massive growth in the market. It is estimated that North America stood second in the global dental bone graft market. As a result of advancement in the dentistry and development of the dental industry in Europe, the dental bone grafts market has grown significantly in the region. Asia-Pacific is likely to witness growth in the dental bone graft market during the forecast period owing to the increasing number of healthcare organizations, growing advantages of the dental bone graft. The rapidly changing technology and growing awareness in the region influence the market growth. China, India, and Japan are the key market players in this region and Asia-Pacific is expected to be the largest market for the dental bone graft. The Middle East and Africa holds the least share in the global dental bone graft market due to the presence of stringent government policies and poor economies. You can Browse Complete Report @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/dental-bone-graft-market-867 About Market Research Future At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Statistical Report, Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services. London, UK -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/03/2018 -- One of the most sought after consulting companies, Euro Petroleum Consultants organises highly interactive conferences across the globe. Their conferences usually gather hundreds of producers, technology providers and suppliers from various industries, exchanging knowledge and discussing various key issues. There are usually 15 annual events held over a range of different countries including Russia, Thailand, Bahrain, United Kingdom, and UAE. 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They have worked with many world renowned brands such as Axens Group Technologies, ExxonMobil, ForteInvest, GAZPROM NEFT, KNPC, Lukoil Oil Company, ROSNEFT, Sberbank, Shell Global Solutions, SOCAR, Takreer, Honeywell UOP, and many more well-known names. Elaborating further about their conferences, a representative from Euro Petroleum Consultants stated, "We have been producing high-level conferences for the oil, gas and petrochemical sectors since 1999. Euro Petroleum Consultants hosts 15 global events annually and provides a unique platform for producers, technology providers and suppliers to gather and exchange knowledge and experience on all key industry issues. Anyone who wants to join these conferences can contact us and our team will assist you." About Euro Petroleum Consultants Euro Petroleum Consultants is a leading independent consulting company with worldwide experience in the oil, gas and petrochemical industries. Euro Petroleum Consultants has four primary business lines: Consulting, Conferences, Training, and Recruitment. Euro Petroleum Consultants was founded to provide solid consulting advice and quality assistance to the refining and petrochemical sectors, throughout all the stages of project analysis and implementation. For more information, please visit: https://www.europetro.com/events?event_type=Conference&order_by=begin_date&direction=asc Contact Details: Euro Petroleum Consultants Ltd 44 Oxford Drive Bermondsey Street London SE1 2FB United Kingdom Phone: +44 (0) 20 7357 8394 Email: enquiries@europetro.com Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/03/2018 -- Global energy demand had seen an exponential growth over the decade due to changing lifestyle. At the time when natural gas prices witnessing fluctuation and coal resources are depleting, the world is witnessing a significant gap between demand and supply of energy. Though as per World Coal Association, global coal reserves are estimated to be 861 tonne and accounts to 42% of total world electricity production; the year on year growth for coal consumption was highest in FY 2013, making it the highest since 1970. The demand for coal consumption is increasing every year thereby leading to depletion of coal reserves at an alarming rate. Moreover, most regions are economically unviable to extract coal from its bed. It is due to this reason that companies are looking for alternative solution that can lead to harnessing the total potential of coal, without disturbing the ecological balance. Underground coal gasification (UCG) is an industrial process by which coal is gasified under intense heat and atmospheric pressure. This enables the production of synthetic gas, constituents of carbon monoxide and hydrogen, which are extracted through a well and utilized in various sectors, ranging from power generation to biodiesel and fertilizer production. Though this concept is not new to the market, little progress has been achieved in this sector, primarily due to low R&D. However, with growing energy consumption and fluctuating oil prices, industries are focusing on UCG to offer clean, efficient and cost-effective energy to various industries. Asia-Pacific is projected as the largest market for underground coal gasification over the next 5 years due to impressive growth in end-use industries ranging from power to chemicals. China along with India, and Australia are key markets for underground coal gasification projects. China is the largest producer as well as the largest consumer of coal based energy. It consumes almost half of the total coal production to meet its energy demand. China has conducted 17 UCG trials since 1991 to check the economic viability of UCG. Major power generating enterprise SinoCoking Coal is planning to harness coal reserves in Henan Province which was abruptly shut down because of strict environmental compliance set up by Chinese government. UCG is an environmental friendly approach that empowers companies to scale high power generation. With world's most populated country, China offers a vibrant platform for energy sector companies to set up their base in China and thereby meet the growing demand of energy in China. Recently, China signed a whooping US $ 1.5 billion major pact with UK for commercial development of UCG in interiors of Mongolia. Request for Table of Contents @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-ap-173 Next prominent market is India. In India, mining contributes 10% of India's GDP. With vast coal reserves, India is looking towards harnessing coal without disturbing ecological balance. There are also some sites which are economically nonviable to mine. Though India's untapped 88.6 billion tonnes of non-metallurgical coal is found at a depth of 300 to 1200 metre is economically nonviable; UCG makes it economically sound option. Coal India Limited is trying to push the UCG technology to harness the coal in Kaitha (Jharkhand) and Thesgora (Madhya Pradesh) area. These two promising region is expected to generate high return on investment (ROI) by FY 2025. Next prominent destination is Australia. In Australia, most companies are undertaking R&D to fully harness the concept of UCG. At present, three major UCG trials is being conducted by Linc Energy, Cougar Energy, and Carbon Energy at Queensland. Australian government is paying a vigil eye on these projects until the technology is commercially proven. SinoCoking Coal, Cougar Energy, Carbon Energy, Linc Energy, and ONGC are key market players that have conducted pilot projects on UCG technology.Future is optimistic for underground coal gasification. With major innovations going around globally, it is expected to meet the needs of people in oil shortage region. Regions including APAC, and Africa will be a future market for underground coal gasification segments. This research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data and statistically-supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to categories such as market geographies, End user industry etc. A sample of this report is available upon request @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-ap-173 Post-volcano tourism challenges Focused on educating and reacquainting prospective visitors with the 50th state following Kilauea volcano's latest lava flow, NCL and visitors bureau representatives welcomed government officials and top travel professionals from across the nation at the `Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo. Andy Stuart, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line; Ross Birch, executive director of the Island of Hawai`i Visitors Bureau; and state Rep. Richard Onishi addressed the group, each emphasizing the tourism need and opportunity across the Hawaiian Islands. Free/reduced air from 38 gateways Stuart discussed Norwegian's long-standing support for the destination and its history of inter-island sailings from Honolulu 52 weeks a year. He also announced the companys most recent effort to encourage travela new 'Free At Sea' offer which provides free and reduced airfare from 37 airports nationwide as well as from Vancouver, BC, beginning Oct. 4. 'Our Pride of America sailings continue to be one of the most coveted itineraries we offer,' Stuart said. 'We remain dedicated to this captivating destination which is why we are inspiring travelers with this latest free air promotion. We want to encourage vacationers to take a closer look at Pride of America, Hawaii and all this paradise state has to offer.' Pride of America's $436m impact Each year, NCL draws well over 111,000 travelers and adds close to $436m to the states economy. The US-flag Pride of America has been sailing its exclusive itinerary for 14 years. With nearly 100 hours of port time, the weekly cruises provide significant support to local businesses. Clean air quality, new nature experiences 'We appreciate the continued commitment of Norwegian Cruise Line to showcase the island of Hawaii to its guests, especially considering the challenges in travel demand that Kilauea volcano's latest lava flow created this past summer,' Birch said. 'With most of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park having reopened, visitors can now enjoy all that our majestic island has to offer. The air quality is clean and beautiful for all to enjoy, new nature-based experiences are available and the weather will continue to be warm and welcoming throughout the fall and winter months.' In addition to todays event in Hilo, NCL hosted more than 50 travel professionals aboard Pride of America this week. 'We are so proud to continue supporting this incredible destination by investing in this effort,' said NCL's Camille Olivere, SVP sales. 'Our travel partners are very important to us as they will be instrumental in not only driving guests to Pride of America but additional tourism to this beautiful state.' The 19 sea ports include marquee ports of Marseille, Nice and Toulon, as well as smaller destinations such as Bandol, Sanary, St Tropez, and Villefranche sur Mer, and also features six Rhone river ports such as Avignon, Aries and Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Region Sud at Seatrade Cruise Med Supported by the Cruise Clubs of Marseille-Provence, Var Provence and French Riviera, as well as Provence-Alpes-Cote dAzur, Region Sud presented a new cruise marketing initiative at the recent Seatrade Cruise Med in Lisbon. Anne-Marie Blum, manager Var Provence Cruise Club explained the thinking behind the initiative. The French Med shores attracted 2.54m arrivals last year and this one territory, Region Sud, is clearly identified and so we are creating new shore excursions and themed programmes for cruise guests - wether repeaters or newcomers -and delivering a dedicated message internationally as well as worldwide marketing campaigns to promote the destination. Economic impact findings To fully understand cruisings impact on our territory a survey was conducted by French polling agency BVA and financed by the state and region which was carried out between June and October last year on a sample of guests arriving at 15 ocean and three river ports, explained Blum. Key findings showed in Region Sud: Cruise generates Euros374m of combined direct, indirect and induced benefits including 2,460 jobs in 2017; 72% of ocean cruise and 90% of river cruise customers seek information (in print/digitally) on their itineraries prior to their cruise underscoring how tourist boards should direct and promote their destination; Half of the guests arriving on ocean ships where in the 21-50 year old age bracket; Three quarters of guests embarking a cruise in Marseille were national guests followed by Belgians and Germans while in Nice, the latter two, were replaced by US citizens. 55% of ocean guest and 61% of river cruise had selected their cruise depending on the ports of call; Two thirds of ocean cruise guests and 39% of river passengers intend to visit the destination during a future stay ashore. One key target area for development is an opportunity for cruise lines to sell pre- and post stays in Region Sud stressed the team at Seatrade Med including Blum and Jean-Francois Suhas president of Marseille Cruise Club, Laurence Canazi president of Var Provence Cruise Club, Romain Wino, inbound traffic development Marseille Provence Airport, Pascale Hattemberg, president French Riviera Cruise Club and Anne-Sophie Peyran head of marketing, commercial and comms at French Riviera Ports. Train and air connectivity With an eye also on expanding home porting from Region Sud ports, which accounted for around 466,000 embarkations last year, Region Sud ports claim to offer the widest TGV network connections across Europe with 13 international cities including London, Brussels, Frankfurt and Madrid linked to Marseille, and beyond to Toulon and Nice, on a year round basis. Wino explained that the regions fast growing airports welcome over 22m visitors a year including 9m in Marseille, 13.2m in Nice and half a million at Toulon and long hual connections include New York, Montreal, Dubai and Las Reunion with more US and China routes to follow. Looking towards the future, said Blum, Region Sud is aiming to grow inbound cruise business, expanding the shore excursion offering to experiences, sports, tasting and meeting the local community, and spreading cruise guests arrivals across the entire region preventing overtourism. CMA CGM took the groundbreaking step of ordering nine, 22,000 teu LNG-powered containerships last year, a move expected to provide a catalyst for the uptake of LNG as marine fuel. However, the number of LNG-fuelled vessels remains small at less than 200, if LNG carriers are excluded. The viability of ships using LNG as a fuel depends very much on the worldwide network of LNG bunkering infrastructure. Global LNG bunkering infrastructure is very much at an infancy stage today. Most LNG ships today are mainly coastal vessels limited to European waters, Sartini said in a speech to the opening of the Singapore International Bunkering Conference (Sibcon) on Wednesday. We are happy to see that countries such as Singapore, Japan and the Netherlands investing in LNG bunkering infrastructure Singapore will be ready in 2020. However, we have not seen any significant developments to suggest LNG will run to a global scale for it to be a viable solution for 2020. LNG as a marine fuel is an alternative option to meet the 2020 sulphur cap rather than burning low sulphur fuels or fitting exhaust gas scrubbers. For it to be operational certainty for carriers the global energy infrastructure must ensure with supply sources in more parts of the world, Sartini said. While CMA CGM has taken the plunge with LNG-fuelled mega-boxships the container line will primarily comply with the IMOs 0.5% global sulphur cap through the use of low sulphur fuels, as well as installing scrubbers on some vessels. Read about why CMA CGM ordered 'game changing' 22,000 teu LNG-powered containerships To replace a large scale fleet with LNG will require large scale investment and take a long time we as group operate 500 vessels and LNG vessels will be a very small portion of this, he said. Following Sartinis speech the Suez Canal Economic Zone Authority signed a Memorandum of Understand (MoU) to join an LNG port focus group founded by the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) in 2014. In is the first port in the Middle East to join the group. Apart from the MPA the other 11 members of the focus group are: Antwerp Port Authority, Port of Rotterdam, Port of Zeebrugge, Port of Jacksonville, Norwegian Maritime Authority, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Japan, Ulsan Port Authority, Republic of Korea, Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan, Port of Marseille Fos and Port of Vancouver. The MPA also recently joined the industry coalition SEA\LNG which aims to promote the use of LNG as a marine fuel. Read more: LNG only 'viable option' today to tackle shipping's air quality issues Metromode met with 14 small business owners, entrepreneurs, creatives, placemakers, local economic development officials, and nonprofit leaders at The coLABorative, a coworking space in downtown Mt. Clemens. Metromode is on tour. Its a listening tour. We're traveling to four cities in Metro Detroit to hear from local entrepreneurs and the folks working to help them succeed. At top of mind: As Midtown and Downtown Detroit boom, what strategies do Metro Detroit's suburban communities have to grow their entrepreneurial ecosystems, both in cooperation with Detroit and independently? Our work, funded by the Davidson Foundation and executed in partnership with Bill Sullivan Enterprises, is all about convening conversations to help us better understand whats working--and what's not--to support small-scale entrepreneurs across some of Metro Detroits larger urban communities. After our first stop in Dearborn, last week we headed to the east side where we met with 14 small business owners, entrepreneurs, creatives, placemakers, local economic development officials, and nonprofit leaders at The coLABorative, a coworking space in downtown Mt. Clemens, affectionately known to its denizens as The Clem. We asked them three simple questions: what does entrepreneurship look like in Mt. Clemens today, what assets and resources do entrepreneurs use, and where are the opportunities for building a better future? What resulted was a rich conversation that we hope will continue. Our next stops: Pontiac, and Ypsilanti. Heres what we learned in Mt. Clemens: Mt. Clemens has great bones. But it needs a cohesive plan to flesh out its potential as an entrepreneurial hub. Most of those we met with agree: Mt. Clemens has great bones. What they mean is that some assets are in place--if a little rough around the edges--to build a vibrant community for entrepreneurs. Those assets include historic buildings, walkable neighborhoods, an authentic historic downtown, and the Clinton River, which flows through town and is increasingly being utilized as a recreational water trail. Placemakers have been active in recent years polishing those bones. The city has invested in streetscape infrastructure and public art and built a new kayak launch on the riverfront. As one of the largest employers in Mt. Clemens, Macomb County has invested more than $65 million in a capital program to bolster its operations in the City through modernized facilities and additional staff. Advancing Macomb, the countys nonprofit economic development arm, has based itself in the downtown. Theres more to be done, but the efforts to make downtown Mt. Clemens an attractive place to be and hopefully, to start a business, are underway. Still, most also agreed theyd like to see a collaborative plan, led by entrepreneurs and economic development leadership, to build a true strategy for cultivating entrepreneurship in town. Because without that, the bones are fragile. We observed strong silos and a disconnect between resource partners. Without addressing those issues, it will be difficult for Mt. Clemens to realize its potential. Such an effort might start with a comprehensive, collaborative downtown development strategy that prioritizes and actively recruits entrepreneurship. It should capitalize on assets such as the riverfront and more options for daytime workers that can help build on foot traffic, and an increased friendliness towards youth and artists (read on for more on that). People from The Clem have an abiding loyalty to the town and each other. Newcomers may need an extra welcome. Mt. Clemens is rich in history and full of dedicated residents who can trace their lineage back generations in the town. Its an excellent foundation for a tight-knit community. However, newer entrepreneurs and residents acknowledged sometimes feeling just a bit like an outsider, sometimes even after being in the city for years. The Downtown Development Authority tries to change that perception by welcoming and connecting potential entrepreneurs with local resources. But the group agrees that building a strong network of younger, entrepreneurial newcomers in the community, and making them feel welcome and connected, is critical to moving forward. Theyd like to connect like-minded people and provide models of how businesses can succeed in Mt. Clemens, to not only give the next person a leg-up but also to connect them to resources like public sector and nonprofit business assistance. Mt. Clemens is a diamond in the rough. But more needs to be done to support early-comers. The real estate is affordable--both commercial and residential. The commuter traffic in and out is light. That combination of affordability and accessibility presents a golden opportunity for pioneers to come in and help what some members agree is a diamond in the rough shine. One side effect of this state is that it creates a sort of chicken and the egg problem for entrepreneurs. Cafe's have tried to stay open for lunch; coffee shops have come and gone. The market is not mature enough yet to support the type of places entrepreneurs need. Mt. Clemens might take a page from other cities to help subsidize key business while the market moves to the Clem--whether thats through rental assistance, pop-ups, or incubators. "There's plenty of room for more innovators in Mt. Clemens and a great opportunity to be a part of the first group of new people in the door," says Melissa Roy, executive director for Advancing Macomb. The group would like to see that narrative packaged into a Mount Clemens Story that can be shared with potential entrepreneurs to let them know that the barriers to entry here are minimal, and any imprint they may have on this community can be lasting and transforming. Theres a budding artist scene in The Clem, and more can be done to build on it. The Anton Art Center in downtown Mt. Clemens has been around since 1969, but it got a significant lift in 2005 when it undertook a $1.6 million renovation of its home, the historic Carnegie Library. That renovation and expansion have allowed the center to increase its offerings to the community through exhibitions, classes, and workshops. The Anton Art Center also hosts markets where local creators can sell their wares, such as the holiday market where last year 25 participating artists grossed $65,000 in sales. As one of the countys leading arts organizations (the other being Performing Arts Center at Macomb Community College), it finds itself as a go-to for helping creative entrepreneurs figure out how to make a living at their craft and offers mini-grants to county residents. In Metro Detroit, as real estate in traditional creative artist hubs like Detroit, Ferndale, and Royal Oak get more expensive, there is an opportunity for Mt. Clemens to position itself as the next urban frontier. The group would like to see more focus on creating live-work and coworking spaces for artists and building infrastructure for them in Mt. Clemens, such as supply shops like a Blicks or Green's. The community would also like to find ways to better help artists with funding, professional development, and business planning. The city needs to embrace a culture shift to attract youth and entrepreneurs. People seem to agree on one thing: Mount Clemens needs a place where people can sit down and have a cup of coffee and WiFi. Some would like to see a more friendly environment for young, artsy kids, with amenities to encourage them to visit the town, both regarding retail and features like skateboard parks. Theyd like to see a bit more friendliness toward whimsy, like sidewalk chalk and murals, which city officials have looked askance at in the past. Several participants expressed the view that city and county leaders must understand this movement as essential to the citys future and invest accordingly. Even if that sometimes means allowing people to draw on the sidewalk with chalk. Mt. Clemens needs to tell a new story to get on the regional map. Finally, stakeholders mostly agreed that Mt. Clemens may have a regional image problem that it must work to overcome. Many believed that people in the region but outside of the county don't know where Mt. Clemens is located. Some claimed that people drive right through Mt. Clemens and don't even know it's there, something that is made possible by the routing of major roads around the city. There are no conversations about the city outside of the city, claims one participant. Part of putting Mt. Clemens on the map might involve concentrating resources here, something that is a challenge in Michigans home rule environment. Participants point to the multiple shopping malls, retail corridors and farmers markets across the county that can tend to dilute a sense of community and a strong central downtown. We have to tell 'em, come to Mount Clemens, says Tony Prainito of Hanna Development and Management, who owns the Emerald Theater in downtown Mt. Clemens. We have to be the cheerleaders of this town, and to believe that we can do it. People recognize Detroit as home to the automobile. But fewer people know the Detroit region as a concentrated center of defense and homeland security facilities that serve as centers of research and development for the nations armed forces.From an innovation perspective, Detroits automotive industry and defense agencies are interconnected, especially in the development of autonomous technologies that will shape the future of mobility.The Detroit region, with its consistently high rankings in private sector innovation, access to talent, and academic STEM R&D, is a qualified location for the Tank Automotive Research, Development & Engineering Center (TARDEC), the TARDEC National Automotive Center, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, and other significant defense assets.Detroit, with the automotive industry, has long been the nations center of innovation, says Tammy Carnrike, chief operating officer for the Detroit Regional Chamber. This includes the corporate world, and a strong academic presence of universities that apply technology and innovation, and testing facilities like Mcity. Then there is the TARDEC element, which is the R&D piece that can work with many different partners and players. Thats where Southeast Michigan is in a unique situation, with the best automotive innovation, technology, and research sitting right here.In February, Carnrike was selected by U.S. Secretary of the Army Mark T. Esper to the role of Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army to represent Michigan (CASA). In this role, Carnrike will be afforded a three-star protocol status in accordance with the U.S. Department of the Army Protocol Precedence List.As a member of the Army-Southeast Michigan Advisory Council and the Governance Committee, Protect and Grow , and as an alumni of the Department of Defenses Joint Civilian Orientation Conference, Carnrike holds significant experience for the CASA role.Carnrikes voice in the community is an asset to the Army and to Esper, especially with regard to the support of veterans, soldiers, and their families. Shes also well connected to the business community in Southeast Michigan and statewide.There is an opportunity to align the Army and the business community, and to highlight the innovation and the technology, and the future partnerships that could occur, Carnrike says.This May, Carnrike escorted Esper and U.S. Sen. Gary Peters on a visit to the Detroit Arsenal in Macomb County, TARDEC, and TACOM. They discussed Espers progressive goals for incorporating technology to modernize the Army.I was so impressed with Dr. Espers commitment to new technologies, new vehicles, and streamlined procurement procedures. The whole procurement process is so important, she says.Its easy to recognize the effect mobility technology will have on our roads, but this innovation can have a profound impact on the military, too.We think about next-generation mobility and autonomous vehicles in terms of cars, not all of the advantages this brings to the military, says Carnrike. Its not just about logistics of transportation of goods and supplies, but about protecting human beings.Removing the soldier from any vehicle driving over roads with embedded explosive devices will save lives, according to Carnrike and Peters.Its important to remember that during the Iraq War, we lost more soldiers and marines in logistic operations than we did in actual combat. The reason is driving a fuel truck over a road with explosive devices embedded in the road is a very dangerous job and so if you can take the driver out, take the soldier out, and have autonomous vehicles that are engaged in supply functions, you will save soldiers lives, says Peters, who is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.The same concept applies for ground combat situations that require swarms of tanks working in conjunction with a lead tank. If some or all of the tanks can be self driving, fewer lives are exposed.As development advances, defense and automotive innovators should be communicating closely, Peters says. Defense situations that require intelligent, off-road sensing capabilities that are virtually impossible to map--think dense forest with ever-changing landscape and foliage situations--make complex urban environments seem manageable. Michigan Technological University works closely with TARDEC to develop and test this highly advanced technology.In military applications, especially for combat vehicles, its not just about movement, its also about about maneuver, where youre in certain formations and certain tactical functions. Its highly complex for a machine to be figuring that out, Peters says.That higher level of difficulty can only benefit the lower level. So [defense and automotive] have to work together and figure out how they benefit from the commercial side. and not reinvent the wheel, but take what is in the commercial side and ramp it up. We shouldnt be working in silos. Department of Defense shouldnt be working on autonomy while GM is working on autonomy, they should be talking to each other.While the region was not selected as the site of the U.S. Armys Futures Command location, Detroit will be home to the Next Generation Combat Vehicle Cross Functional Team ( NGCV CFT ) at the Detroit Arsenal in Warren.Ultimately, Michigan, and the Detroit region in particular, serves as the center of innovation for both military and civilian applications of advanced mobility.The two areas that will be transformed with regard to vehicles will be military and civilian, and we have both, Peters says.Thats one advantage we have over some of the other places that are also seeking to be leaders in mobility. They dont have the defense infrastructure that we have here in Michigan to do this work. Press Release October 2, 2018 Tolentino ignorant of his own poll protest - De Lima Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has belittled defeated senatorial candidate Francis Tolentino's "desperate plan" to use the perjured testimonies of convicted criminals against her in his baseless election protest. De Lima, a former election lawyer, maintained that Tolentino's reliance on the perjured testimonies of untrustworthy convicted criminals to support his case "only shows how hollow it already is." "Tolentino should study his own election protest case with his lawyers before talking about it in public because he only exposes his ignorance about his own case," she said in her recent Dispatch from Crame No. 390. "(He) cannot even get this simple fact straight explains his absolute ignorance about the facts of his own election protest case. This includes his allegations of cheating which up to now he cannot prove or clearly explain in public," she added. According to De Lima, Tolentino's accusation of cheating is nothing but a "plot for a cheap paperback novel" which up to now has remained a "fantastic story that only losers in elections are capable of concocting." "[H]is cited ground of failure to report to COMELEC the convicts' alleged contributions is not proper in an election protest case. Besides, these individuals are even disqualified by law from becoming state witnesses because they are criminal convicts," she pointed out. "The law deems their word unreliable and untrustworthy. The claim of some of them that they gave money for my campaign funds is an absolute falsehood," she added. Tolentino, who is now Mr. Duterte's political adviser, had lost by more than 1.3 million votes to De Lima for the 12th spot in the winning senatorial candidates in the 2016 national elections. In his electoral protest, Tolentino alleged fraud and irregularities as the cause of his defeat in the 2016 senatorial elections. De Lima has since considered Tolentino's protest as baseless and lacks legal basis. He recently claimed he can use in his electoral protest the testimony of several drug lords like Herbert Colango - one of the government prosecution's witnesses in the trumped-up illegal drug trade case filed against De Lima-- against the Senator herself. "Tolentino's election protest case remains a sputtering engine that has failed to take off from the very start for lack of any evidence that he was cheated," De Lima said. On Tolentino's claim that he automatically takes his oath as senator should De Lima resign, the former justice secretary said he only exposes his ignorance about his own case. "There is no provision in our election laws which states that if the 12th-ranked winning senator resigns, the 13th-ranked but losing senatorial candidate automatically becomes senator," she said. "He will never be a senator unless he is proclaimed the rightful winner in an election protest. And Tolentino is still light-years away from proving in the election protest he filed against me that he actually won in the 2016 senatorial elections," she added. Instead of resorting to obviously desperate moves, the Senator from Bicol advised Tolentino to simply accept the fact that he has lost. "My advice to him is that he should take his defeat like an honorable man, and just prove himself worthy of the post by winning in the next elections," she said. Sen. Bam renews call to establish gov't body dedicated to seniors, elderly During Elderly Filipino Week, Sen. Bam Aquino hopes to rally more government support for our senior citizens. "Napakahalaga ng papel ng senior citizens sa ating lipunan at sa inyong mga pamilya kaya marapat lang na bigyang tulong ang ating senior citizen," Sen. Bam stressed this point when he met with leaders of different senior citizens' organizations from Luzon. In the 17th Congress, Sen. Bam filed Senate Bill No. 674 to create a National Commission for Senior Citizens (NCSC) to ensure that rights and privileges they are entitled to are properly given to senior citizens. "Mahalagang masiguro na ang lahat ng benepisyong nakalaan sa ating senior citizens ay naibibigay. Tutukan natin ang kanilang kapakanan," said Sen. Bam, whose father and mother are now both senior citizens. The bill seeks to amend Section 11 of Republic Act 7432 or the Expanded Senior Citizen Act of 2010, abolishing the National Coordinating and Monitoring Board and replacing it with NCSC. The council will be spearheaded by a chairperson and commissioners from a list submitted by senior citizens organizations and associations. During his talk with senior citizens, Sen. Bam said that the Go Negosyo Act, which he sponsored and authored in the 16th Congress, will give them a chance to venture into business, which will enable them to provide additional help to their family. "Sa pamamagitan ng pagnenegosyo, mayroon pa rin tayong paraan para makatulong sa ating mga pamilya," said Sen. Bam. Sen. Bam also assured senior citizens of his full support behind the Universal Social Pension Bill filed by Sen. Grace Poe. The bill aims to provide a universal social pension for all senior citizens. Press Release October 3, 2018 Lacson: No Time to Waste in Passing Stronger, Balanced Anti-Terror Measure More at: https://pinglacson.net/2018/10/03/no-time-to-waste-in-passing-stronger-balanced-anti-terror-measure Amid the continuing threat of terrorism, there is no time to waste in passing a stronger, balanced, and useful measure to stop it, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said. Lacson said he is working to fast-track such a measure, which gives authorities more flexibility while upholding human rights, before Congress goes on Christmas break. "There is no time to waste. Our present anti-terrorism law, the Human Security Act, is already 11 years old, yet no person or organization has ever been prosecuted under it. From 2007 to 2018, the law's only 'accomplishment' was the proscription of the Abu Sayyaf as a terrorist group," Lacson said. "We understand the predicament of law enforcers. All they seek is a little flexibility. But we will also make sure respect for human rights will be primordial," he added. He noted their coordination with representatives from other countries such as Australia showed the HSA is among the world's weakest anti-terror measures. Philippine authorities are not keen on implementing the HSA due to a provision that fines law enforcers who prosecute the wrong person, to the tune of P500,000 per day of detention. Lacson said they are inclined to remove this provision in the proposed new anti-terror law, and let the courts determine the penalties for false prosecution. On the other hand, Lacson said the new measure will have safeguards to protect the rights of subjects of anti-terrorism operations, including surveillance. "Anti-terrorism operations, including surveillance, should have basis. They cannot be capricious or whimsical on the part of national security officials," he said. He said surveillance operations must be authorized via judicial authorization and written authority from the Anti-Terrorism Council. Even information obtained via surveillance should not be divulged if they are not relevant to the case, and should be deposited with the courts. Earlier, Lacson filed Senate Bill 1956, which enhances the government's anti-terrorism capabilities with provisions on foreign terrorists and additional predicate crimes. Lacson's bill adds three predicate crimes to the 12 in the present law. These include: - RA 9208, Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 - RA 9165, Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 - RA 10175, Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 Press Release October 3, 2018 Higher discount rates for political ads get Senate nod The Senate on Monday approved on third and final reading a bill requiring higher discount rates for political advertisements in radio and television during elections, in a bid to give more candidates the chance to share their platforms to the public and pave the way for more informed voters. Senate Bill No. 1985 was sponsored by Senator Aquilino Pimentel III, chair of the Senate Committee on Electoral Reforms and People's Participation, and was co-sponsored by Senator Richard Gordon. The measure was approved with 18 affirmative votes, zero negative votes and no abstention. "Free expression of our people's will is better ventilated during an election period if all those who vie for the votes of our people are undeterred in delivering their messages to their voters, especially if the deterrence is the prohibitive cost," Pimentel said. Pimentel said the bill seeks to amend the existing Fair Elections Act (RA 9006), by requiring higher discount rates for TV and radio ads provided by media outlets to bonafide candidates during an election period. "The proposed discounted rates found in the bill will be as follows: from 30% to 40% for television, and from 20% to 30% for radio," he said. The higher discount rates, Pimentel said, would be applied based on "the average of the published rates these media outlets charged their regular non-political or commercial advertisers during the last three (3) calendar years prior to an election." "Relieved of the burden of the prohibitive costs of political advertisements, candidates and political parties participating in future elections will now have more opportunities to communicate their messages to the electorate in all forms of the so-called mainstream media," he said. According to Pimentel, the bill would not necessarily prohibit media outlets from providing greater discounts to candidates. Instead, he said, the bill requires that the discount given to one candidate must be the same discount given to other candidates for the same position, "in the name of parity and fair play." He also allayed fears that the discounts rates would afford well-funded candidates and political parties more exposure, pointing out that existing laws would still limit the maximum air time and print space for election candidates. Pimentel said that political advertisements should be part of the social responsibility of media outlets, since the true purpose of these advertisements is "to educate the electorate about the qualifications, platforms, and track records of political candidates." "Because of the importance and higher interest of society in educating the electorate on their political choices, it is just proper and correct that media outlets contribute to this common good," he said. "We hope to make our people more aware of their choices on election day. The result of the elections, hopefully, will reflect a more discerning electorate to be emulated by future generations of Filipino voters," Pimentel said. Press Release October 3, 2018 Sotto wants Office of the Press Secretary back, with press attaches Senate President Vicente C. Sotto III today asked the Senate Subcommittee on Finance to study the possibility of reviving the Office of the Press Secretary (OPS) and pave the way for the creation of press attaches. On top of the mandate of the OPS, which is to relay the messages of the President, Sotto underscored the need for the existence of press attaches to monitor issues and areas of intervention within the concerned Philippine embassy or diplomatic office and act as press officer to promote the agenda of the administration and address misinformation. "This will help build and improve the image of the Philippines as a key trading partner country," the Senate President said. It will not be the first for the country to have press attaches as such diplomatic positions existed in previous administrations, he added. "Lately, the perspective of some members of the Senate is that we have completely digressed already from the original intent of the creation of the OPS and it is no longer in the landscape of the administration, even in the past administration," Sotto said during the hearing when he recommended the idea of reverting the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) to its original set-up. The Senate chief said President Duterte himself is receptive to the idea of bringing back the OPS. In taking everything under the present PCOO under the umbrella of the OPS, Sotto said "perhaps it will be more effective than what it is today." Investors may get a chance to buy $181 million of shares in New Zealands fourth-largest container port. Hawkes Bay Regional Council is recommending to its 70,000 ratepayers that the council sell up to 45 percent of the Port of Napier in order to free up capital and diversify the council's investment base. The share sale, one of four options ratepayers will be asked to consider, could raise $83 million for the council after port-related debt of almost $87 million is repaid and sale costs of about $11 million are met. Other options put to ratepayers include granting a new firm a long-term operating lease, funding the ports expansion through a combination of borrowing and rate increases, or selling a minority stake to another firm. Chairman Rex Graham said the port was too vital to the region to have its growth constrained. Listing a minority stake will ensure the council can still meet its other obligations, while retaining exposure to a strategic and growing regional asset. The listing will also offer ratepayers the chance - through a preferential offer to hold shares directly in the port, he said. This is a good problem weve got here, Graham told councillors in Napier this morning. The world is demanding and wanting our produce and the only way to get it to them is through that port. If the share sale proceeds it will be the first listing of a port since Christchurch City Council delisted Lyttelton in November 2014. Ports of Auckland, the countrys largest, was delisted by the former Auckland Regional Council in 2005. Napiers port needs to expand to cope with massive growth in apple and log exports from the region and the increasing demands of the cruise ship industry. It handled about 2.2 million tonnes of logs in the year through September, 37 percent more than the year before, and 13.5 million cartons of apples. Total cargoes in the period were a record five million tonnes, having increased 25 percent during the past two years. The port, which expects to turn away as many as seven cruise ships next year, is currently seeking resource consent for a $142 million berth extension to reduce congestion. It wants that commissioned by 2022. That is just the start of an investment programme needed to cater for a projected 57 percent increase in export volumes by 2028, driven by more logs and fruit. Total investment in the coming decade is estimated at up to $350 million, including the berth extension, other asset replacement, and growth projects. Port chief executive Todd Dawson said that, with the ports current debt cleared, the company would have sufficient headroom to meet its on-going capital requirements of up to $20 million a year after the berth extension is completed. The council had previously signaled it couldnt fund the ports capital requirements and meet the increased spending needed on the regions rivers and water systems. It has spent the past year considering its capital structure and its reliance on the port, which accounts for about 76 percent of the councils income generating assets. The $10 million-plus it has received in port dividends over the past year has also subsidised ratepayers by about $140 a year each and accounted for close to a fifth of the councils operating revenues. If the council retained full ownership, the expansion costs would largely fall on ratepayers, as the projected increase in borrowing costs would almost consume the expected dividends. Councillors today noted there would be little appetite among ratepayers for a 45 percent rate increase. A working group the council established last year had previously been sceptical that a minority stake listed on NZX would be sufficiently attractive to investors. It had favoured the option of an operating lease. Graham said councillors had also initially favoured that option, which could deliver more than $460 million to the council upfront for a 50-year lease. While that model had worked well for some Australian ports, he said there was concern at the aggressive returns a new operator may require, and how the council would manage that relationship long-term. At Sept. 30 last year, the port had total assets of $329 million, funded with equity of $205.1 million. Papers tabled for todays meeting show the council values the port stake in its accounts at $291 million. While the council has approved the sale of up to 49 percent of the business, its intention is to only sell a 45 percent stake. Nor does the council plan to seek another port company or port operator as a cornerstone investor. Were very confident in the current governance and management of the port, chief executive James Palmer said. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: Contact Energy Limited (NZX: CEN) Sets Interest Rate for Green Capital Bonds Rakon Limited (NZX: RAK) Upgrades Earnings Guidance 12th November 2021 Morning Report The Warehouse Group Limited (NZX: WHS) FY22 First Quarter Sales Update Infratil Limited (NZX: IFT) Interim results for the period ended 30 September 2021 11th November 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) Delivers Interim Profit Before Tax of $570 Million Mainfreight Limited (NZX: MFT) Half Year Financial Results 30 September 2021 Arvida Group Limited (NZX: ARV) Completion of Shortfall Bookbuild Auckland International Airport Limited (NZX: AIA) Announces Interest Rate for Retail Bond Issue New Zealand shares fell, led by A2 Milk Co, after one of the company's directors sold a small parcel of shares. Fletcher Building declined after surprising investors with a takeover bid for Steel & Tube Holdings. The S&P/NZX 50 index dropped 32.64 points, or 0.4 percent, to 9,293.95. Within the index, 24 stocks fell, 19 gained and seven were unchanged. Turnover was $136 million. A2 led the market lower, falling 2.6 percent to $11.08 after disclosing director Peter Hinton sold 25,000 shares at $11.91 apiece on Sept. 26. The sale came in the wake of CEO Jayne Hrdlicka's share sale, which investors have criticised as being poorly communicated. "It's a relatively immaterial percentage of his holdings, but it doesn't come out as particularly good coming after CEO Hrdlicka sold all of her shares," said James Lindsay, a senior portfolio manager at Nikko Asset Management. Today's disclosure comes after Morningstar Research included the stock in its top 10 stock ideas for Australia and New Zealand. It said the recent price decline meant A2 stock was trading at a discount to the analyst's $14.60 fair value estimate. Fletcher dropped 1.5 percent to $6.48 after its initial bid for steel products maker Steel & Tube was turned down as too low. Fletcher offered $1.70 a share, or $284 million, and has the support of shareholders with 20 percent of the company's stock. CEO Ross Taylor says he will keep pursuing the company, but was coy on whether he'll raise the bid. Lindsay said the takeover bid was a surprise with other firms seen as more likely targets. "The market was quite surprised that they would look to spend quite a lot of their capacity in bidding for Steel & Tube," he said. Steel & Tube, which is outside the top 50, climbed 16 percent to $1.56, still below the non-binding offer. NZX fell 0.9 percent to $1.08. The stock market operator is facing a dissident shareholder unhappy with its strategy. However metrics today showed it's getting more trading done through the official market. And it could attract a new listing with Hawke's Bay Regional Council recommending a partial sale and listing of Napier Port. Port of Tauranga was unchanged at $5.16 and logistics firm Mainfreight gained 0.2 percent to $30.21. Scales Corp, which has orchards in Hawke's Bay, rose 0.6 percent to $4.93. Pushpay Holdings posted the biggest gain for the day, up 1.3 percent to $4.05. The payments software developer yesterday disclosed Morgan Stanley ceased being a substantial shareholder on Sept. 27. Air New Zealand gained 1.2 percent to $3.025 and Investore Property increased 0.7 percent to $1.55. Among blue-chip stocks, Spark New Zealand increased 0.5 percent to $4.04, Auckland International Airport advanced 0.3 percent to $7.32, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare slipped 0.1 percent to $15.10 and Meridian Energy decreased 0.2 percent to $3.25. Fonterra Shareholders' Fund units declined 0.8 percent to $4.81 after dairy prices fell at the latest GlobalDairyTrade auction. Outside the benchmark index, Briscoe Group slipped 2 percent, or 7 cents, to $3.52 after shedding rights to an 8 cent per share dividend . Warehouse Group gained 0.5 percent to $2.08 after appointing local Facebook chief Will Easton to its board. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: Contact Energy Limited (NZX: CEN) Sets Interest Rate for Green Capital Bonds Rakon Limited (NZX: RAK) Upgrades Earnings Guidance 12th November 2021 Morning Report The Warehouse Group Limited (NZX: WHS) FY22 First Quarter Sales Update Infratil Limited (NZX: IFT) Interim results for the period ended 30 September 2021 11th November 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) Delivers Interim Profit Before Tax of $570 Million Mainfreight Limited (NZX: MFT) Half Year Financial Results 30 September 2021 Arvida Group Limited (NZX: ARV) Completion of Shortfall Bookbuild Auckland International Airport Limited (NZX: AIA) Announces Interest Rate for Retail Bond Issue Trucking operator TIL Logistics is acquiring Specialised Lifting and Transport Group to increase its capacity to move large loads and better compete with Australian rivals. The company, which already operates Multi-Trans Heavyhaul, has agreed to pay $19 million in cash and shares for Specialised Lifting and Transport, which comprises Tranzcarr Heavy Haulage, Machinery Movers and Huge Movers. TIL chief executive Alan Pearson said the purchase offers meaningful synergies and expands the groups network and the range of services it can offer customers. It will also make it more competitive against Australian firms quoting for work here. Heavy haulage is very specialised work, both in terms of equipment and people. The acquired businesses are currently generating around $15 million in annualised revenues and we expect the acquisition to be immediately earnings per share accretive, he said. The New Zealand freight industry remains highly fragmented and TIL is well positioned to lead future industry consolidation. We have a very disciplined approach to acquisitions, which must meet strict criteria and demonstrate the ability to add considerable long term value. New Plymouth-based TIL has more than 900 trucks and operates depots and warehouses in 60 locations. Its Pacific fuel business is one of the countrys largest tanker fleets, while its general freight business includes major brands like TNL, Hooker Pacific and Roadstar. TIL said Tranzcarr specialises in moving heavy and over-size loads here and overseas and will complement its existing Multi-Trans operation. Huge Movers is an advisory service on moving large items. Machinery Movers specialises in extraction, transportation and installation of heavy plant and operates the largest and most diverse fleet of custom lifting gear for the construction industry. That is a new area of business for TIL. TIL is paying $15 million in cash for the businesses and will issue $4 million of shares at $1.50 for the balance. The shares closed at $1.66 yesterday, down 17 percent so far this year. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: Contact Energy Limited (NZX: CEN) Sets Interest Rate for Green Capital Bonds Rakon Limited (NZX: RAK) Upgrades Earnings Guidance 12th November 2021 Morning Report The Warehouse Group Limited (NZX: WHS) FY22 First Quarter Sales Update Infratil Limited (NZX: IFT) Interim results for the period ended 30 September 2021 11th November 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) Delivers Interim Profit Before Tax of $570 Million Mainfreight Limited (NZX: MFT) Half Year Financial Results 30 September 2021 Arvida Group Limited (NZX: ARV) Completion of Shortfall Bookbuild Auckland International Airport Limited (NZX: AIA) Announces Interest Rate for Retail Bond Issue A divide along party lines meant MPs couldn't recommend passing a law making it easier for councils to charge development levies to pay for community infrastructure. Parliament's governance and administration select committee reported back on the Local Government (Community Well-being) Amendment Bill but couldn't reach an agreement on whether to recommend it proceed. The eight-strong committee has four government members and four opposition MPs and is chaired by National's Brett Hudson. The bill aims to reinstate the social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being aspects to the law governing local bodies, and restore their power to collect development contributions to fund a wider array of infrastructure. The government MPs recommended amending the bill to ensure that if councils receive New Zealand Transport Agency funding they would still be able to levy developments. However, National MPs opposed the legislation saying it will allow poorly focused spending and increase costs for residents and businesses. In the bill's first reading in April, Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta said many councils have struggled to keep up with the growing cost of maintaining infrastructure since the development contributions were removed in 2014. Reinstating the ability to levy removed a barrier to growth. It would also resolve a technical problem for councils accessing transport infrastructure funding through the $1 billion Housing Infrastructure Fund, she said. The bill's regulatory impact statement said the status quo wasn't providing the level of development needed to meet current and future needs of communities. While a broader remit for collecting the levy will increase the costs for developments, Department of Internal Affairs officials felt the benefits of the change outweighed the negative impact on the viability of specific developments. "The inability of local authorities to recover the costs of developing new community facilities from development contributions can lead to deferred investment and a consequent reduction in the level of service for ratepayers," DIA said. Local Government New Zealand supported the bill, saying the restoration of the well-being measures strengthened integrated service delivery. It backed a wider definition of community infrastructure, saying it wouldn't diminish accountability for setting the levies. Business New Zealand opposed passing the bill until there was a public inquiry into the drivers of local government costs, warning of potential expenditure creep that will largely fall on the shoulders of business. The Productivity Commission has been tasked to conduct a new inquiry into local government funding and financing. Property Council New Zealand supported the reinstating of the well-being elements, but urged legislators to put off changing development contribution provisions until an inquiry was held. The industry group disagreed with the DIA advice, saying development contributions will probably be passed on to potential buyers which will exacerbate housing supply shortages and rising costs. Fletcher Residential supported the Property Council's submission. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: Contact Energy Limited (NZX: CEN) Sets Interest Rate for Green Capital Bonds Rakon Limited (NZX: RAK) Upgrades Earnings Guidance 12th November 2021 Morning Report The Warehouse Group Limited (NZX: WHS) FY22 First Quarter Sales Update Infratil Limited (NZX: IFT) Interim results for the period ended 30 September 2021 11th November 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) Delivers Interim Profit Before Tax of $570 Million Mainfreight Limited (NZX: MFT) Half Year Financial Results 30 September 2021 Arvida Group Limited (NZX: ARV) Completion of Shortfall Bookbuild Auckland International Airport Limited (NZX: AIA) Announces Interest Rate for Retail Bond Issue Morningstar Research has added A2 Milk Co to its 10 best stock ideas for Australia and New Zealand as the recent drop in share price created an attractive discount for a strong growth story. The research house rates A2 a stock to 'accumulate' with a fair value estimate of $14.60. The shares are currently trading at a 22 percent discount to that estimate, at $11.44. A2 has dropped about 8.6 percent since chief executive Jayne Hrdlicka disclosed a share sale in late September, for which she attracted criticism. The recently appointed chief executive sold 357,232 shares at an average price of $12.02 per share to realise close to $4.3 million, saying she had sold the shares to fund tax and other obligations entered into before she joined A2 in mid-July. The shares immediately fell more than 5 percent in value. Morningstar analyst Adam Fleck said the milk marketing firm faces risks from its large exposure to China's infant formula market, the potential for unfavourable scientific developments, its small supply pool and competition from larger competitors. However, those risks were mitigated by the large discount the shares are trading at, he said in a note. "We forecast strong 20 percent annual earnings growth over the next 10 years, driven by a percentage point of market share gain annually, on average, in Chinese infant formula and further margin expansion," he said. "Moreover, we expect A2 Milks solid brand positioning to support premium pricing for the firms products, and the companys capital-light business model will generate triple-digit ROICs," he said referring to the return on capital invested. Research by Armillary Private Capital, which manages the Unlisted market known as USX, shows A2's return on capital employed was 154 percent in 2017 and had generated a three-year average return of 83 percent. Supplier Synlait Milk's return on capital employed was 14 percent in 2017 with a 12 percent three-year average, while Fonterra Cooperative Group's 8.3 percent last year for a three-year 8.1 percent return. All of the other companies in Morningstar's top 10 local picks are Australian firms, although Westpac Banking Corp has a secondary listing on the NZX. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: Contact Energy Limited (NZX: CEN) Sets Interest Rate for Green Capital Bonds Rakon Limited (NZX: RAK) Upgrades Earnings Guidance 12th November 2021 Morning Report The Warehouse Group Limited (NZX: WHS) FY22 First Quarter Sales Update Infratil Limited (NZX: IFT) Interim results for the period ended 30 September 2021 11th November 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) Delivers Interim Profit Before Tax of $570 Million Mainfreight Limited (NZX: MFT) Half Year Financial Results 30 September 2021 Arvida Group Limited (NZX: ARV) Completion of Shortfall Bookbuild Auckland International Airport Limited (NZX: AIA) Announces Interest Rate for Retail Bond Issue The Reserve Bank is lauding the success of its 'bank financial strength dashboard' and plans to replicate the tool in other sectors such as insurance and non-bank deposit takers. The dashboard - launched in May - is a standalone website containing a series of charts and plain English explanations to help people make informed decisions when putting their money in a bank. The dashboard "not only challenges banks to be open and transparent with their disclosures, but also gives the public the opportunity to take an active interest in monitoring their banks performance, head of prudential supervision Toby Fiennes said in a speech for chartered accountants in Auckland. Banks are required to publicly disclose information about their businesses, the risks they take and their financial resilience. The dashboard presents all disclosure information in one place so people can easily compare information across lenders. Early indicators show it's been well received, Fiennes said. The site attracted more visits in the first 24 hours than the prior data set received in an entire year. The vast majority of visitors are in New Zealand. Importantly, he said that around 15 percent are return visitors, indicating the site is seen as a resource rather than a "one-off curiosity". Dashboard users include creditors, owners, media, ratings agencies and the banks themselves. Initial feedback indicates users appreciate the accessibility and better quality of information and banks have improved the scrutiny applied to their own liquidity metrics now they're in the public domain, he said. Looking ahead, Fiennes said the aim is to replicate it. "Insurance is likely to be the next cab off the rank and we expect to start work in mid-2019, once we have a good sense of how the bank dashboard has worked," said Fiennes. The dashboard will make it possible to further improve transparency in the sector and the central bank's supervision of insurers, he said. Both the banking and insurance sectors have been in the limelight after the Financial Markets Authority and the central bank launched a joint review of the culture and conduct of banks and life insurers. This followed a Royal Commission inquiry into Australia's financial sector, which discovered some disconcerting practices. Fiennes said since the release of the inquiry's interim report, there is a lot of focus on misconduct and fair treatment of customers. The bank "would welcome ideas on whether there are 'conduct' metrics that could and should be included. The same question arises in the context of operating risk, such as business continuity arrangements", he said. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: Contact Energy Limited (NZX: CEN) Sets Interest Rate for Green Capital Bonds Rakon Limited (NZX: RAK) Upgrades Earnings Guidance 12th November 2021 Morning Report The Warehouse Group Limited (NZX: WHS) FY22 First Quarter Sales Update Infratil Limited (NZX: IFT) Interim results for the period ended 30 September 2021 11th November 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) Delivers Interim Profit Before Tax of $570 Million Mainfreight Limited (NZX: MFT) Half Year Financial Results 30 September 2021 Arvida Group Limited (NZX: ARV) Completion of Shortfall Bookbuild Auckland International Airport Limited (NZX: AIA) Announces Interest Rate for Retail Bond Issue Ports of Auckland reported a 27 percent lift in net profit, boosted by some one-off gains and a full year of revenue from its Nexus Logistics and Conlinxx units. Reported net profit for the year to June 30 was $76.8 million, up from $60.3 million the year before. But that included $17.6 million for items related to asset valuation changes and impairments, compared to $5.3 million in the 2017 year. Ports of Auckland will pay a dividend of $51.1 million to the Auckland Council, slightly down from $51.3 million the year before. Group revenue was $243.2 million, up $20.8 million. Freight volumes increased and the port benefited from buying out its joint venture partner in Nexus Logistics in May 2017. That brought Conlinxx, which manages Ports of Auckland's Wiri inland port, back under its control. The country's largest port said that container volumes were up 2.2 percent to the equivalent of 973,722 twenty-foot units, while breakbulk and bulk volumes were up 4.8 percent to 6.77 million tonnes. The container terminal team delivered an average crane rate of 35.63 moves an hour this year, nearly one move per hour more than in the previous year. The company said significant progress has been made on the automation of its container terminal, due to go live in the second half of the 2019 calendar year. It has also completed earth works at the Waikato Freight Hub and started construction of the first freight handling facility for Open Country Dairy. Road and rail connections will be built during the next 12 months and the hub will open for business by mid-2019, it said. As a result, capital expenditure was $130.5 million, versus $88.2 million in the year to June 2016. "Were making a significant investment in our people, technology and infrastructure to establish a platform for sustainable future returns, with multiple projects, including automation, underway this year," said chief executive Tony Gibson. Looking ahead, chair Liz Coutts said the risks to the trading environment are similar to last year. Container shipping lines continue to consolidate, with the top 10 lines globally now accounting for 80 percent of all container traffic. In New Zealand, the largest line has captured around 50 percent of the market and the number of container lines calling at Ports of Auckland is down to eight as a result of mergers and acquisitions. "We face relentless pressure to increase efficiency and cut costs," she said. Coutts said the company is also mindful of the potential threat to the global economy from the rise of protectionism and a possible trade war. Any global economic slowdown that resulted would probably affect New Zealand and reduce global shipping volumes. However, "the company is in a good position to weather such an event," she said. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: Contact Energy Limited (NZX: CEN) Sets Interest Rate for Green Capital Bonds Rakon Limited (NZX: RAK) Upgrades Earnings Guidance 12th November 2021 Morning Report The Warehouse Group Limited (NZX: WHS) FY22 First Quarter Sales Update Infratil Limited (NZX: IFT) Interim results for the period ended 30 September 2021 11th November 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) Delivers Interim Profit Before Tax of $570 Million Mainfreight Limited (NZX: MFT) Half Year Financial Results 30 September 2021 Arvida Group Limited (NZX: ARV) Completion of Shortfall Bookbuild Auckland International Airport Limited (NZX: AIA) Announces Interest Rate for Retail Bond Issue Fletcher Building is coy on whether it will raise its $284 million bid for Steel & Tube Holdings, saying shareholders holding more than 20 percent of the fabricator and distributor want the offer formally on the table. Steel & Tube shares shot up 21 percent after the board knocked back the non-binding, indicative and confidential offer from Fletcher Building, stating it "significantly undervalues" the company. They last traded at $1.56, up 16 percent, though still below the $1.70 put forward by the country's biggest construction company. Fletcher Building chief executive Ross Taylor told BusinessDesk he wants to see the process through. "With the premium we are offering and that strong shareholder support, we remain keen and focused on continuing those discussions with the Steel & Tube board and getting an outcome." He declined to comment on Fletcher's next move if there is no breakthrough in talks. "We are not talking about strategy and tactics. We have laid out what we want to do. We want to approach this as a scheme with Steel & Tube. We want to agree that with them - that is our planned approach," he said. In a scheme of arrangement a potential buyer works with the board of the target company through a period of due diligence. It then needs 75 percent approval from shareholders, with more than half the votes cast. That differs from a formal takeover, which needs to cross the 90 percent threshold before the bidder can mop up hold-out investors if they want full ownership. Fletcher Building said it would prefer to "work constructively" with Steel & Tube's board. It noted it's been in confidential discussions with directors and a number of major shareholders for the past three weeks. Shareholders who collectively own more than 20 percent of Steel & Tube stock think the board should "progress the development of the proposal" with a view to putting it to Steel & Tube shareholders," Fletcher said. "The shareholders we have talked to are quite keen to see it progressed," Taylor said. Fletcher said the $1.70 price implies a transaction multiple of 12.3 times Steel & Tube's earnings before interest and taxation guidance for the current financial year and "represents compelling value." Taylor said the price also represents a 35 percent to 38 percent premium on recent trading ranges. The stock had tumbled 31 percent since the start of the year after impairment charges and restructuring costs forced it to raise money at a discount to keep its lenders onside. Last month Steel & Tube reiterated its expectation that full-year ebit will climb to $25 million this year, up from $16.5 million before one-time costs in the year ended June 30. Ebit is then expected to climb to at least $35 million within three years. Taylor said the merger and acquisition activity is consistent with Fletcher Buildings five-year strategy announced in June and within its focus on the New Zealand and Australian building products and distribution sectors. "A core part of our overall strategy is to grow the New Zealand business," he said. Combining Fletcher's steel distribution business in New Zealand with Steel & Tube "is quite compelling." He said the purchase would give the company a full product range and a better footprint across New Zealand. It would also give "a bit more scale that allows us to better invest in innovation and some of the digitisation and automation you need in these businesses." Fletcher Building played down Steel & Tube's claims that the need for Commerce Commission clearance is a potential obstacle. It said it's undertaken a significant amount of work with its economic and legal advisors on combining the businesses. "There is not much point starting this frivolously. We are quite confident it will remain competitive," said Taylor, adding there would still be a number of well-established competitors remaining, as well as a growing number of offshore suppliers selling directly into the market. Approval from the Overseas Investment Office will also be necessary. Fletcher Building's shares recently traded down 1.4 percent at $6.49. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: Contact Energy Limited (NZX: CEN) Sets Interest Rate for Green Capital Bonds Rakon Limited (NZX: RAK) Upgrades Earnings Guidance 12th November 2021 Morning Report The Warehouse Group Limited (NZX: WHS) FY22 First Quarter Sales Update Infratil Limited (NZX: IFT) Interim results for the period ended 30 September 2021 11th November 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) Delivers Interim Profit Before Tax of $570 Million Mainfreight Limited (NZX: MFT) Half Year Financial Results 30 September 2021 Arvida Group Limited (NZX: ARV) Completion of Shortfall Bookbuild Auckland International Airport Limited (NZX: AIA) Announces Interest Rate for Retail Bond Issue 96 review: Poignant and Powerful 96 will make you laugh and cry and we insist that you watch it Source: SIFY By: Moviebuzz Critic's Rating: 4/5 Tuesday 02 October 2018 Movie Title 96 review: Poignant and Powerful Director Prem Kumar Star Cast Vijay Sethupathi, Trisha, Aditya Baskar, Gauri By Moviebuzz 96 is a charming, old-fashioned love story that takes us back to the nostalgic school days. Most of the love stories that bloom in school days never ends up in marriage and 96 doesnt have any cinematic cliches... so it will surely strike a chord among the audiences.The unseen hero of this delicious love story is writer-director C Premkumar who pulls off a near perfect script. Ramachandran aka Ram (Vijay Sethupathi) is a travel photographer who comes back to his hometown. He is smitten by the smell of Tanjore soil, his school building, and the old watchman (Janakaraj). Obliging the request of the watchman, Ram calls his school friend (Bagavathi Perumal) who adds him to the WhatsApp group of their schoolmates. Chekka Chivantha Vaanam review: All about family feud, greed, thirst for power and revenge! | DevaDas review: An interesting first-half | Pataakha review: Fire-cracker performances light up the screen Two months later, all the 96 batch students meet in Chennai for a reunion where Ram gets to meet his childhood love Janu (Trisha). Ram walks down the memory lane and spends a whole night with Janu, talking about the past and the situations that they went through in life. Janu is now married and settled down in Singapore. From the first frame to the last, the film arrests us with the varied emotions of the characters. The visuals are glossy but it doesnt overshadow the expressions of the characters, 96 is an unadulterated, mature love story. Both Ram and Janu is never vocal about their love, they dont argue for silly reasons, there is no breakup, intimate scenes, rebound, and ego trip but still, they express pure love, feel for each other and makes us root for them. Vijay Sethupathi is its backbone. He adds another inspired performance to his extraordinary repertoire. His gait, eyes, even his slight smile arrests you. Trisha has delivered an outstanding performance and she doesnt take one wrong step. She makes Janu real and lovable. While Vijay Sethupathi had acted as an aged man in the past, Trisha playing a 37-year-old woman in the film shows her maturity and she has elegantly carried her role with so much class! Sethu, as usual, steals the show with his witty one-liners, innocent smile, and inimitable performance. Dhevadarshini is a riot. Aditya Bhaskar and Gouri Kishan who played the childhood of the protagonists are just brilliant and flawless. Gouri is a promising find while Aditya (son of MS Baskar) performs well as the timid schoolboy and there is a scene where he should walk like a brave young man in which he proves his versatility. The casting of child actors of Dhevadarshini (her real daughter), Aadukalam Murugadoss, and Baghavathi Perumal is also brilliant. The first half of the film is predominantly carried by Aditya and Gauri, only in the second half we get to see Trisha and Vijay Sethupathis combination scenes. The chemistry between them and their admiration for each other is a gem. All the S.Janaki vintage classic songs sung by Gauri (childhood Janu) are effectively placed to take the story forward, the importance of Yamune Aatrile and the scene where it was sung by Trisha in the second half are clap worthy moments. Those Janaki songs composed by Ilaiyaraaja also tells us how their music created spark in the teenagers during 90s. Technically, Govind Vasanths music and songs are a biggest strength. The camerawork (Mahendran Jayaraju and Shanmuga Sundaram) is awesome, as it captures Chennai city, metro rail, airport and the flyovers in a poetic manner. The climax of 96 should actually melt everyones heart. The greatest love stories are the ones that make you root for the protagonists to come together, despite their destinies. This is one of the best films in a long time. It will make you laugh and cry and we insist that you watch it. 96 review: Verdict: poignant and powerful Chekka Chivantha Vaanam received rave reviews from critics but opinion from public is mixed. And the film is a hit only in urban Tamilnadu and overseas. In Andhra, Telangana and Kerala CCV is below average. But the film got a big thumps up from Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu who enjoyed watching this Mani Ratnam film. The actor also heaped praise on the film saying it is the movie of the decade. #ChekkaChivanthaVaanam... stellar performances .@arrahmanmatchless @santoshsivan...pure class. If you haven't seen the film, go grab your tickets people. We are witnessing a classic... movie of the decade!! The master is back & how!As a #ManiRatnam fan, used to clap watching his films in the theaters of Chennai, did the same... watching it in my home theater with my collar up, tweeted Mahesh Babu. Pooja Hegde is currently working for a Hindi moviein Rajasthan. She will have to join the shoot of Prabhass new movie that is progressing in Italy. She will leave for the movie later this week. The unit is already in Italy. Radhakrishna Kumar is directing the period love story. Pooja Hegde also has to leave for USA from Italy to shoot Mahesh Babus Maharshi towards the end of this month. So, she will have to work simultaneously for these two movies. Meanwhile, she is struggling to cater dates to the promotions of Aravindha Sametha that is hitting the screens on October 11. Images: Pooja Hegde on Instagram Text: Telugucinema.com The Delhi Police removed the barricades around 12.30 am to allow the farmers, who were stopped Tuesday at UP Gate on the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border during the Kisan Kranti Yatra, to enter the city, a senior police official said. Protesting farmers ended their march at the Kisan Ghat in the national capital early on Wednesday after the police which had stopped them on the city border allowed their entry, police said . Within hours, thousands of farmers gathered at Kisan Ghat, the memorial of renowned farmer leader and former prime minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, which is located just adjacent to Raj Ghat between the banks of Yamuna river and Mahatma Gandhi Road, also known as main Ring Road. They offered tributes at the memorial. The farmers entered the national capital riding their tractors and trolleys and proceeded towards Kisan Ghat where heavy police deployment has been made, the official said. Bhartiya Kisan Union leader Pawan Khatana said the police had opened the barricades around 12.30 am. We reached the Kisan Ghat in the next couple of hours. By 5 am the farmers had started return journey to their homes in Rajasthan, Haryana, UP, Madhya Pradesh, said Khatana, the BKUs Uttar Pradesh unit spokesperson. No farmers participating in the agitation are now in Delhi, however, several of them, including BKU chief Naresh Sigh Tikait are staying put near the UP-Delhi border -- the spot for Tuesdays clash with security men. Khatana said some of the farmers are still at UP Gate, the intersection of Madan Mohan Malviya Road in Ghaziabad with the Delhi-Meerut highway, repairing their tractors. Our yatra was supposed to start from Tikait Ghat in Haridwar and culminate at the Kisan Ghat in Delhi. The farmers reached there and after that they left. Our main objective was to get our issues highlighted, which has happened. Now it is for the government to decide what it wants to do. The farmers have done their work. If they agree to our demands, well and good. Otherwise, during elections they (politicians) will only have to approach us (for votes) and not the other way round, Khatana said. Mukul Singh, 24, who participated in the stir said he has reached back home in Muzaffarnagar. We left for Kisan Ghat from UP Gate around 1 am. And left Delhi a couple of hours later, Singh said over the phone. Sachin Bhati, another protester, said Wednesday morning that he was travelling back with around 40 people in a tractor-trolley to Muzaffarnagar. We went to the Kisan Ghat and are now returning home. We will reach home in another hour or so, Bhati, 36, said, as they still had to cover around 30 km to be home. Thousands of farmers on Tuesday marched towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, pending sugarcane dues, allowing plying of old tractors, blocking traffic movement on arterial roads leading to the national capital. National highways leading to the capital were swamped with farmers who came in from places as far as Gonda, Basti and Gorakhpur in eastern Uttar Pradesh as well as the sugarcane belt of western Uttar Pradesh. The police picketed the border with Uttar Pradesh, imposing prohibitory orders banning assembly of five or more people and holding of any public meeting, usage of any amplifier, loudspeaker, and similar instruments. The Kisan Kranti Yatra which began from Tikait Ghat in Haridwar on September 23, was joined by farmers from various parts of Uttar Pradesh. They carried banners of Bhartiya Kisan Union, which gave the call for the march to press for a series of demands. Their list of demands include unconditional loan waiver for farmers, clearing of dues by sugar mills, higher prices for crops, free electricity for farms and a cut in diesel prices. After receiving United Nation's Champions of the Earth Award for 2018, Narendra Modi thanked the world community for acknowledging India's effort to save environment. He dedicated the award to the countless Indians and their efforts towards achieving climate justice. He also stated that it is a proud moment for India to host such an event. Climate and calamity are directly related to culture; if climate is not the focus of culture, calamity cannot be prevented. When I say Sabka Saath, I also include nature in it, said PM Modi. Pope gives Chinese bishops 'warm welcome' Vatican City, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 Pope Francis on Wednesday offered a "warm welcome" to two Chinese Catholic bishops attending a synod for the first time following a landmark deal between China and the Vatican. "Today, for the first time, we have also with us two bishops from mainland China," the pontiff said in a speech to kick off the month-long advisory body meeting on the role of young people in the 1.2 billion-member church. "We offer them our warm welcome: the communion of the entire episcopate with the successor of Peter is yet more visible thanks to their presence," he said. On September 22, the Vatican and China reached a provisional agreement under which Pope Francis recognised seven clergy initially ordained by Beijing without the Vatican's approval. The accord could pave the way for the normalisation of ties between the Catholic Church and the world's most populous country. One of those recognised, Bishop Joseph Guo Jincai, is attending the synod along with Bishop John Baptist Yang Xiaotin, another member of the Patriotic Catholic Association (PCA), a body created by the Chinese government to administer the church. Francis said he hoped the synod would help "broaden our horizons, expand our hearts and transform those frames of mind that today paralyse, separate and alienate us from young people, leaving them exposed to stormy seas". The meeting of more than 300 church officials, outside experts and youth delegates is taking place in the shadow of an existential crisis in the Church over cases of widespread sexual abuse of minors by clergy and lay officials in a number of countries. 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Your muscles ache, you have chills and you hear a slight wheeze when you breathe out. Do you head to the local emergency department? A walk-in clinic? Or does your family doctor have an after-hours service? As a family doctor, Id like to think youd call your doctors office or go to their after-hours clinic. But chances are, you head to the emergency department. Canadians use the emergency department far more than people in other high-income countries. In the last two years, 40 per cent of Canadians were seen in the emergency department compared to 24 per cent in the United Kingdom, 20 per cent in the Netherlands and just 11 per cent in Germany. Canadian governments have wondered whether one way of curbing emergency department use is to improve access to family doctors after hours. About 15 years ago, Ontario introduced practice models that paid physicians differently, encouraged them to work in groups and take responsibility for a roster of patients. Physicians in these new models were also required to provide a certain number of evening or weekend clinics. The hope was to divert some emergency department visits to family practices. Unfortunately, it didnt quite work as planned. Our recent study found that emergency department use didnt decrease for patients who joined the new practice models. Between 2003 and 2014, there was actually an increase in the rate of emergency department visits in Ontario, particularly during the day. At the same time, the overall rate of visits to family doctors went down but family doctors seemed to be providing more after-hours care. Why didnt asking family doctors to provide after-hours care reduce emergency department visits? There are a few potential explanations: First, it may be that an increase in family doctor availability after hours was offset by a decrease in availability during the day. Ontario has a fixed supply of family doctors, many already juggling a demanding workload. Perhaps one way of coping with new requirements was to decrease daytime hours. Second, providing more services may just increase peoples demand for services. When the U.K. introduced urgent care clinics, people started going there but they also kept going to the emergency department at the same rate they did before. Or maybe you do see your family doctor and theyre worried about pneumonia so they send you to the emergency department because thats the only way they can get an X-ray after hours. Many of our emergency departments are overcrowded partly because of a shortage of hospital beds but also because of the sheer numbers of people seeking care. Can better access to primary care help us reduce the demand on emergency departments? Our findings suggest its complicated. Just asking family practices to provide more care on the evenings and weekends is likely not enough. Family practices need to have the right resources to provide care after hours, including access to labs and X-rays. Ideally, after-hours coverage is shared by a large group of doctors and other team members who have access to shared electronic patient records. We also need to improve timely access to primary care during the day. Few Canadians are able to get a timely appointment with their family doctor or nurse practitioner when sick. In a recent survey, 25 per cent said they went to the emergency department because their family doctor wasnt available. We can learn from reforms in other countries. For the last 15 years, family doctors in the Netherlands have been organized in large co-operatives, each serving 100,000 to 500,000 patients and featuring a single regional telephone number. In the evenings and on weekends, trained nurses triage calls and, if needed, physicians assess patients on the phone, in clinic or at home. Perhaps its not surprising that the Netherlands has one of the lowest emergency department visit rates. More after-hours care may not necessarily reduce emergency department visits but its still an important service for patients. We need to better understand patient values and rethink how weve designed our system for those with acute health complaints in the evenings or on weekends. Lets learn from other countries and evaluate related reforms in Canada. Tara Kiran is a family physician at the St. Michaels Hospital Academic Family Health Team, adjunct scientist at ICES, and the Fidani Chair in Innovation and Improvement at the University of Toronto. She is a contributor with EvidenceNetwork.ca, which is based at the University of Winnipeg. Parcels sent to Pentagon suspected to contain ricin: official Washington, Oct 2 (AFP) Oct 02, 2018 Two or more packages delivered to the Pentagon this week were suspected to contain the deadly poison ricin, an official said Tuesday. Defense Department spokesman Chris Sherwood said at least two suspicious packages were intercepted at a nearby screening center on Monday. "As part of the screening process, (authorities) recognized some suspicious packages," Sherwood said, noting they were "suspected to be ricin." He stressed that authorities were still waiting for confirmation that the packages contained ricin. Pentagon police referred the matter to the FBI for investigation. A defense official told AFP the packages were addressed to Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Navy head Admiral John Richardson. "FBI Special Agents took possession of two suspicious envelopes that had been screened at the Pentagon mail facility. Those envelopes are currently undergoing further testing," the FBI said in a statement. Pentagon spokesman Colonel Rob Manning said all mail received at the Pentagon's screening facility Monday was "placed under quarantine and poses no threat to Pentagon personnel." Pentagon authorities showed reporters the secure area where mail is received. Defense Department workers in white protective suits screen every piece of post that comes in, some 500,000 items per year, officials said. Produced by processing castor beans, ricin is lethal in minute doses if swallowed, inhaled or injected and 6,000 times more potent than cyanide, with no known antidote. Ricin suspected in mail sent to Trump, Pentagon Washington, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 Mail addressed to President Donald Trump and the Pentagon was suspected of containing the deadly poison ricin, officials said Tuesday. The US Secret Service said it had obtained a "suspicious envelope" addressed to Trump on Monday, the same day at least two suspicious packages were intercepted at a screening center for Pentagon mail, according to a Defense Department spokesman. "The envelope was not received at the White House, nor did it ever enter the White House," the Secret Service said. "We can confirm that we are working jointly with our law enforcement partners to fully investigate this matter." Chris Sherwood, a Pentagon spokesman, said authorities at its screening site "recognized some suspicious packages," noting they were "suspected to be ricin." He stressed that authorities were still waiting for confirmation that the packages contained ricin. Pentagon police referred the matter to the FBI for investigation. A defense official told AFP the packages were addressed to Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Navy chief Admiral John Richardson. While located on the Pentagon campus, the mail facility is not within the main building itself. Employees wear white protective suits in order to examine mail suspected of containing ricin, which has been used in terror plots. The White and Pentagon pieces of mail were likely linked and contained a crude substance made from castor bean that authorities were not technically calling "ricin" until further testing, CNN reported, citing a source familiar with the joint federal investigation. Produced by processing castor beans, ricin is lethal in minute doses if swallowed, inhaled or injected. It is 6,000 times more potent than cyanide, with no known antidote. Highly toxic, it can cause nausea, vomiting, internal bleeding and difficulty breathing, leading to death from organ failure or the collapse of the circulatory system. "FBI Special Agents took possession of two suspicious envelopes that had been screened at the Pentagon mail facility. Those envelopes are currently undergoing further testing," the FBI said in a statement. Colonel Rob Manning, a Defense Department spokesman, said all mail received at the Pentagon's screening facility Monday was "placed under quarantine and poses no threat to Pentagon personnel." Pentagon authorities showed reporters the secure area where mail is received. Defense Department workers in white protective suits screen every piece of post that comes in, about 500,000 items per year, officials said. Earlier, two people were hospitalized in Houston, Texas after being exposed to a white powdery substance found in letters addressed to Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican, US media reported. Amid trade spat, US-China military tensions soar Washington, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 The bitter trade dispute between China and the US is increasingly spilling into the military domain, with a risky incident in the South China Sea highlighting the dangers of souring relations. In what the US Navy has called an "unsafe and unprofessional" encounter, a Chinese warship sailed within just 45 yards (41 meters) of a US destroyer Sunday as it passed by Chinese-claimed features in the South China Sea, forcing the American vessel to take evasive action. The close call capped days of tit-for-tat military moves that came as President Donald Trump ramped up his trade war with China. "The close encounter between the Chinese destroyer and the USS Decatur was the closest one yet," Timothy Heath, senior international defense research analyst at the RAND Corporation, told AFP. It "may reflect in part the growing US-China tensions. But it also appears to reflect a growing willingness by Beijing to test the Americans in the South China Sea," he added. Beijing reacted furiously after the incident, saying America's "freedom of navigation" operation threatened China's sovereignty and security, and damaged military relations between the two powers. The encounter followed a string of other military incidents. Last week, plans for a Beijing meeting between US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and his Chinese counterpart General Wei Fenghe fell through after China declined to make Wei available. Days earlier, China nixed a planned port visit of a US warship to Hong Kong, and canceled a meeting between the head of the Chinese navy and his American counterpart. That all came around the time US B-52 bombers took part in a combined operation with Japan over the East China Sea, and flew through international airspace over the South China Sea. The Chinese defense ministry denounced the flyovers as "provocative" actions. Mattis this week acknowledged "tension points" between the US and China, but told reporters he did not "see it getting worse." - Code of conduct - The US and Chinese militaries in 2014 agreed on a code of conduct for unplanned encounters at sea, aimed at helping the two navies avoid mishaps. It was unclear whether Sunday's manoeuver came at Beijing's request -- or was initiated by the Chinese ship's captain --- but political motivations were likely a factor in forcing a close call. "With tensions elevated, China seems motivated to risk a possible collision as a means of intimidation. There is a real risk of miscalculation," Heath said. Trump's trade war has infuriated Beijing, as did his authorization of a $1.3 billion arms sale to Taiwan, which China considers a rebel province. Washington last week enacted new tariffs against China covering another $200 billion of its imports. And Washington has placed financial sanctions on China for its recent purchase of Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets and S-400 surface-to-air missile systems. - Earlier encounters - US-China military relations have been strained before. Military exchanges between the countries, including port calls, were temporarily suspended following a mid-air collision between a US EP-3 spy plane and Chinese fighter in 2001 off the south China coast that sparked a major diplomatic row. The Chinese fighter pilot was killed in the collision and the EP-3 was forced to make an emergency landing in China's Hainan Island, with the crew detained for 11 days before being released. Current military tensions are likely to persist, said Bonnie Glaser, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, as they suit Trump's political objectives. The president last week slapped $200 billion in tariffs on Chinese goods and has accused Beijing of interfering in the upcoming US election. "This looks like a strategy from the president," Glaser told AFP. "He just wants to double down on putting as much pressure on China as possible." Noting that such actions violated established rules, Glaser added the encounter in the South China Sea represented a "different level of interfering" in a US freedom of navigation operation. US must lift Iran sanctions on 'humanitarian' goods: UN court The Hague, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 The UN's top court Wednesday ordered the United States to lift sanctions on "humanitarian" goods to Iran that President Donald Trump reimposed after pulling out of Tehran's nuclear deal. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) unanimously ruled that Washington "shall remove by means of its choosing any impediments arising from the measures announced on May 8 to the free exportation to Iran of medicines and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities" as well as airplane parts, said judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf. The court said sanctions on goods "required for humanitarian needs... may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." US sanctions on aircraft spare parts also had the "potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran and the lives of its users". Trump slapped a first round of sanctions on Iran in August after pulling out in May of a historic deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions, to the dismay of his European allies. A second round of punitive measures is due in November. The ICJ rules on disputes between United Nations member states. Its decisions are binding and cannot be appealed, but it has no mechanism to enforce them. UN court ruling on US sanctions shows Tehran is 'right': Iran Tehran, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 Iran's foreign ministry Wednesday welcomed a ruling by the UN's top court ordering Washington to suspend sanctions on humanitarian goods, as a "clear sign" that "Iran is in the right". The ruling by the International Court of Justice "once again shows that the US government... is day by day becoming more isolated," the ministry said in a statement. UN court tells US to ease Iran sanctions in blow for Trump The Hague, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 The UN's top court ordered the United States Wednesday to lift sanctions on humanitarian goods for Iran in a stunning setback for US President Donald Trump. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague handed Iran a major victory, saying that the stinging economic sanctions put Iranian lives at risk. The ruling is likely to rile Trump, who reimposed the sanctions in May after pulling out of Iran's international nuclear deal to the dismay of his allies. But it was unclear whether the judgment will be anything more than symbolic, because both Washington and Tehran have ignored them in the past. The ICJ judges ruled that the sanctions on some goods breached a 1955 "Treaty of Amity" between Iran and the US that predates Iran's Islamic Revolution. "The court finds unanimously that... the United States of America... shall remove by means of its choosing any impediments arising from the measures announced on 8 May to the free exportation to Iran of medicines and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities" as well as airplane parts, chief judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf said. The court said sanctions on goods "required for humanitarian needs... may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." US sanctions also had the "potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran and the lives of its users." - 'In the right' - Iran's foreign ministry hailed the shock judgment as proof that Tehran was "in the right". Ahead of the decision, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that the sanctions were a form of "psychological warfare" aimed at regime change. Trump slapped a first round of sanctions on Iran in August after pulling out in May of the international deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions, to the dismay of his European allies. A second round of punitive measures is due in November. Iran dragged the US to the ICJ in July, and during four days of hearings in late August, its lawyers accused Washington of "strangling" its economy. Washington however forcefully told the court that it has no jurisdiction to rule on this case as it concerns a matter of national security. Wednesday's ruling is in fact a decision on so-called provisional measures ahead of a final decision on the matter, which may take several more years, experts said. Rulings by the Hague-based ICJ, which rules on disputes between United Nations members are binding but it has no mechanism through which it can enforce its decisions. In 1986 Washington disregarded the court's finding that it had violated international law by supporting the pro-US Contra rebels in Nicaragua. Iran in turn ignored the ICJ's ruling in 1980 to release hostages taken during the Iran hostage crisis. - Nazi disposition - There was no immediate reaction from the United States, but Trump has previously shown his disdain for overarching international organisations that limit US sovereignty, including the UN. He recently heavily criticised the separate International Criminal Court in The Hague over a probe into alleged US abuses in Afghanistan. The 2015 nuclear deal saw Iran agree to limit its nuclear programme and let in international inspectors in return for an end to years of sanctions by the West. But Trump argues that funds from the lifting of sanctions under the pact have been used to support terrorism and build nuclear-capable missiles. European allies have pledged to keep the deal alive, with plans for a mechanism to let firms skirt the US sanctions as they do business with Iran. Despite that, France alleged on Tuesday that the Iranian intelligence ministry was behind a foiled plot to bomb an exiled opposition group near Paris. US-Iran relations have plunged to a new low since Trump's election in 2016, even as the US president reaches out to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un over his nuclear programme. Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani faced off at the UN in September, with Rouhani denouncing leaders with "xenophobic tendencies resembling a Nazi disposition". Despite their 1955 Treaty of Amity and Economic Relations, Iran and the United States have not had diplomatic ties since 1980. The case is the second brought by Tehran against Washington since 2016. That year it brought a suit at the ICJ against the freezing of around $2 billion of Iranian assets abroad which US courts say should go to American victims of terror attacks. Hearings in that case are due to start next week. Adel Abdel Mahdi, Iraq PM-designate shouldering hopes home and abroad Baghdad, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 Adel Abdel Mahdi, the veteran tapped to become Iraq's next prime minister, is seen as an independent capable of bringing together rivals on the country's fractious political scene. A Shiite and native of Baghdad, the 76-year-old has been handed the difficult task of navigating Iraq's tangled politics to form a government within 30 days. With a burly physique and a face framed by spectacles and a thin moustache, Abdel Mahdi is an economist by training who has served as oil minister. He will be able to call on years of experience as a regular on Iraq's diplomatic scene for the balancing acts he is expected for perform. Abdel Mahdi has the blessing of both Iran and the United States, a required consensus in the country caught between its two major allies who are foes. He also has good relations with many Kurdish leaders, a major advantage in normalising ties with the autonomous region of Kurdistan whose people voted overwhelmingly to split from Iraq last year. The son of a minister of during Iraq's monarchy, which met a bloody end in 1958, Abdel Mahdi joined the Baath party, which brought Saddam Hussein to power in the late 1970s. He became a leading opponent of the dictator, first as a communist and then as an Islamist, before fleeing Iraq, only to return after Saddam's overthrow in the US-led invasion of 2003. - 'Heavy responsibility' - Abdel Mahdi later became a senior figure in the Supreme Iraqi Islamic Council, a Shiite movement close to Iran. A member of the interim authorities set up by the US military command who briefly served as finance minister, he became Iraqi vice president after the country's first multiparty elections in 2005. While he was vice president, he was lightly wounded in 2007 when a bomb exploded inside the public works ministry. In 2014, he was appointed oil minister under Haider al-Abadi, the man he is set to succeed as premier. He excelled in the role, deftly negotiating with Kurds over oil before resigning after two years. A francophone who attended university in France, he also has an excellent command of English. Abdel Mahdi will have to deal with many figures whose paths he has already crossed as he seeks to hammer out a new government. Among them is Hadi al-Ameri, the head of the Conquest Alliance close to Iran, former prime minister Nuri al-Maliki and populist Shiite cleric Moqtadr Sadr. Responding to a message of congratulations from Abadi, he showed he was wary of the task ahead, referring to it as "a heavy responsibility". US slams ICJ ruling on 'meritless' Iran sanctions case The Hague, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 The United States criticised a top UN court decision on Wednesday ordering Washington to ease sanctions on Iran, saying the case was "meritless" and the court had "no jurisdiction". "This is a meritless case over which the court has no jurisdiction," US ambassador to the Netherlands Pete Hoekstra tweeted, shortly after a ruling at the International Court of Justice. But Hoekstra pointed out that the Hague-based tribunal "declined to grant the sweeping measures requested by Iran" and it was "a narrow decision on a very limited range of sectors." UN court tells US to ease Iran sanctions in blow for Trump The Hague, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 The UN's top court ordered the United States on Wednesday to lift sanctions on humanitarian goods for Iran in a stunning rebuke to US President Donald Trump. Tehran hailed its "victory" after the International Court of Justice ruled that sanctions reimposed after Trump pulled out of a nuclear deal put Iranian lives at risk. The US said the case was "meritless" and only involved a few sanctions, although the decision is still likely to rile Trump. It remains unclear whether the judgment will be anything more than symbolic because both Washington and Tehran have ignored ICJ decisions in the past. The judges at the court in The Hague ruled unanimously that the sanctions on some goods breached a 1955 "Treaty of Amity" between Iran and the US that predates Iran's Islamic Revolution. They said Washington "shall remove by means of its choosing any impediments arising from the measures announced on 8 May to the free exportation to Iran of medicines and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities" as well as airplane parts and services, chief judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf said. The court said sanctions on goods "required for humanitarian needs... may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." US sanctions also had the "potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran." Trump slapped a first round of sanctions on Iran in August after pulling out in May from the 2015 international deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions, to the dismay of his European allies. A second round of punitive measures is due in November. - 'Meritless case' - Iran dragged the US to the ICJ in July, and during four days of hearings in late August, its lawyers accused Washington of "strangling" its economy. Foreign drugs are now a rare commodity in Iran which is also dealing with a free-falling rial local currency and price hikes. Official Iranian statements acknowledge the shortage and say imports of certain drugs are no longer subsidised. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif called the court ruling "another failure for sanctions-addicted US government and victory for rule of law". The foreign ministry said in a statement that the ruling was a "clear sign" that "Iran is in the right". Washington however says the case is outside the court's purview as it concerns a matter of national security. "This is a meritless case over which the court has no jurisdiction," US ambassador to the Netherlands Pete Hoekstra tweeted. But Hoekstra pointed out that the tribunal "declined to grant the sweeping measures requested by Iran" and it was "a narrow decision on a very limited range of sectors." Wednesday's ruling is in fact a decision on so-called provisional measures ahead of a final decision on the matter, which may take several more years, experts said. Decisions by the Hague-based ICJ, which rules on disputes between United Nations members, are binding but it has no mechanism through which it can enforce its decisions. - Iran, US ignored rulings - In 1986 Washington disregarded the court's finding that it had violated international law by supporting the pro-US Contra rebels in Nicaragua. Iran in turn ignored the ICJ's ruling in 1980 to release hostages taken during the Iran hostage crisis. Trump has previously shown his disdain for overarching international organisations that limit US sovereignty, including the UN. He recently heavily criticised the separate International Criminal Court in The Hague over a probe into alleged US abuses in Afghanistan. Trump has also ridden roughshod over his allies, alarming allies with his decision to pull out of the 2015 nuclear deal that saw Iran agree to limit its nuclear programme and let in international inspectors in return for an end to years of sanctions by the West. Trump argues that funds from the lifting of sanctions under the pact have been used to support terrorism and build nuclear-capable missiles. European allies have pledged to keep the deal alive, with plans for a mechanism to let firms skirt the US sanctions as they do business with Iran. US-Iran relations have plunged to a new low since Trump's election in 2016 Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani facing off at the UN in September. Despite their 1955 Treaty of Amity and Economic Relations, Iran and the United States have not had diplomatic ties since 1980. Hearings in a separate Iranian case against the US freezing of around $2 billion of Iranian assets to help American terror victims is due to start at the ICJ next week. Runway collision between Sudan army planes injures 8: airport Khartoum, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 A collision between two Sudanese army planes on the runway at Khartoum airport on Wednesday injured eight people, officials said. The Soviet-era Antonov aircraft had landed within seconds of each other when the accident occurred, an airport official said. "Eight people were injured and taken to hospital when two military planes collided at Khartoum airport," said another official who spoke to AFP on condition of anonymity. The Sudanese military is expected to comment on the accident later on Wednesday. Video footage posted on social media showed two planes moving along the runway before one suddenly rams the tail of the other. Both planes appeared to have been badly damaged in pictures posted online. Airport officials said the facility had been temporarily closed after the accident. Wednesday's accident is the third to have hit Sudan's ageing military fleet in less than a month. On September 21, two pilots were killed when their military jet crashed near Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum on the west bank of the Nile. It came days after a military helicopter crashed on landing in Darfur. All passengers were rescued as the helicopter caught fire. Most of Sudan's fleet consists of Russian-made aircraft, and in recent years it has suffered several crashes, with the military frequently blaming technical problems and bad weather. UN court tells US to ease Iran sanctions in blow for Trump The Hague, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 The UN's top court ordered the United States on Wednesday to lift sanctions on humanitarian goods for Iran, in a stinging rebuke for the Trump administration which nonetheless made clear the decision would change nothing. Tehran hailed its "victory" after the International Court of Justice ruled that sanctions reimposed after President Donald Trump pulled out of a nuclear deal put Iranian lives at risk. But the United States insisted it was already allowing humanitarian exemptions to sanctions and, accusing Iran of seeking a "propaganda" win, announced it was terminating a treaty on which the case was based. The judges at the court in The Hague ruled unanimously that sanctions on some goods breached the 1955 Treaty of Amity between Iran and the United States that predates Iran's Islamic Revolution. They called on Washington to "remove by means of its choosing any impediments arising from the measures announced on 8 May to the free exportation to Iran of medicines and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities" as well as airplane parts and services, chief judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf said. The court said sanctions on goods "required for humanitarian needs... may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." US sanctions also had the "potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran." Trump slapped a first round of sanctions on Iran in August after pulling out in May from the 2015 international deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions, to the dismay of his European allies. A second round of punitive measures is due in November. - Iran hails ruling - Iran dragged the United States to the ICJ in July, and during four days of hearings in late August, its lawyers accused Washington of "strangling" its economy. Foreign drugs are now a rare commodity in Iran which is also dealing with a free-falling rial currency and price hikes. Official Iranian statements acknowledge the shortage and say imports of certain drugs are no longer subsidised. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif called the court ruling "another failure for sanctions-addicted US government and victory for rule of law". The foreign ministry said in a statement that the ruling was a "clear sign" that "Iran is in the right". But US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of "abusing the ICJ for political and propaganda purposes" and noted that the court did not reject US sanctions more broadly. "The court's ruling today was a defeat for Iran. It rightly rejected all of Iran's baseless requests," Pompeo told reporters in Washington. He said that the United States was ending the 1955 friendship treaty, signed when Iran was ruled by the Western-oriented shah. "This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue," Pompeo said, referring to the time since the 1979 Islamic revolution transformed Iran from one of the closest US allies to a sworn foe. "Given Iran's history of terrorism, ballistic missile activity and other malign behaviours, Iran's claims under the treaty are absurd," he said. The end of the treaty will have little direct effect but Iran has repeatedly cited it to seek claims against the United States, including when the US Navy downed an Iran Air civilian flight in 1988, killing 290 people. Wednesday's ruling is in fact a decision on so-called provisional measures ahead of a final ruling which may take several more years, experts said. Decisions by the Hague-based ICJ, which rules on disputes between United Nations members, are binding but it has no mechanism through which it can enforce its decisions. - Iran, US ignored rulings - In 1986, Washington disregarded the court's finding that it had violated international law by supporting the pro-US Contra the ICJ's ruling rebels in Nicaragua. Iran in turn ignored the ICJ's ruling in 1980 to release hostages seized when revolutionary zealots took over the US embassy. Trump has repeatedly voiced disdain for international organisations that he sees as limiting US sovereignty. Trump's national security adviser John Bolton recently threatened that the United States would take action against any judge from the separate International Criminal Court who pursues a case against US troops in Afghanistan. Negotiated under his predecessor Barack Obama, Trump argues that the 2015 Iran deal gave Tehran money to support extremist groups and build nuclear-capable missiles. European allies have pledged to keep the agreement alive, with plans for a mechanism to let firms skirt the US sanctions as they do business with Iran. Hearings in a separate Iranian case against the US freezing of around $2 billion of Iranian assets to help American terror victims is due to start at the ICJ next week. Turkey parliament extends mandate for troop deployment in Syria, Iraq Ankara, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 Turkish parliament on Wednesday approved a motion to extend the deployment of troops in neighbouring Syria and Iraq for another year, the official Anadolu news agency reported. The mandate, first approved by parliament in October 2014, has been renewed every year since then. It allows military action in Turkey's two southern neighbours against Islamic State (IS) extremists and other groups deemed by Ankara to be terror organisations. The approved motion said it was "essential for Turkey's national security to take all necessary measures ... in the face of any threats." Ismet Yilmaz, head of parliament's defence committee, said there would be no let-off in Turkey's fight against terror. "We will not allow terror groups to shelter or be trained in our country's southern borders, or stage attacks against our country utilising the instable political situation in Iraq and Syria," Yilmaz was quoted as saying by Anadolu. Dozens of Moroccan migrants rescued at sea Rabat, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 Morocco's navy rescued 37 of its citizens off the country's coast on Wednesday, as they were trying to cross the Mediterranean to Europe, the armed forces said. The migrants were saved from their partially-inflated rubber dinghy, which was struggling in "unfavourable meteorological conditions", Morocco's military said in a statement. After being rescued off the coast of Tangier on Morocco's northern coast, the group was taken to the city's port where they were "safe and sound". The dinghy they had been travelling in "sank just after the rescue operation", the armed forces said. The incident came a day after at least 13 people died when their boat ran into trouble off the coast of Nador in the country's northeast. Thirty-two migrants from sub-Saharan Africa were saved, according to local authorities, while organisations which support migrants put the death toll at 34. Thousands of people have tried to reach Europe from Morocco, most of them on boats bound for Spain or via the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa. More than 40,000 migrants have made it to Spain since the start of the year, including around 35,000 by sea, according to the International Organization for Migration. Morocco said last month it had foiled 54,000 bids so far this year by people trying to cross the Mediterranean to Europe. Some 80 smuggling networks have been dismantled in the same period, according to the interior ministry. As part of the crackdown, Morocco's navy last week opened fire on a speedboat which was ferrying migrants to Spain. A 22-year-old student was killed in the shooting, while three other Moroccans were wounded, sparking criticism from rights groups. UN court tells US to ease Iran sanctions in blow for Trump The Hague, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 The UN's top court ordered the United States on Wednesday to lift sanctions on humanitarian goods for Iran, in a stinging rebuke for the Trump administration which nonetheless made clear the decision would change nothing. Tehran declared victory after the International Court of Justice ruled that sanctions reimposed after President Donald Trump pulled out of a nuclear deal put Iranian lives at risk. But the United States insisted it was already allowing humanitarian exemptions and, accusing Iran of seeking a "propaganda" win, announced it was terminating a treaty on which the case was based. The judges at the court in The Hague ruled unanimously that sanctions on some goods breached the 1955 Treaty of Amity between Iran and the United States that predates Iran's Islamic Revolution. They called on Washington to "remove by means of its choosing any impediments arising from the measures announced on 8 May to the free exportation to Iran of medicines and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities" as well as airplane parts and services, chief judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf said. The court said sanctions on goods "required for humanitarian needs... may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." US sanctions also had the "potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran." Trump slapped a first round of sanctions on Iran in August after pulling out in May from the 2015 international deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions, to the dismay of his European allies. A second round of punitive measures is due in November. - Iran hails ruling - Iran dragged the United States to the ICJ in July and, during four days of hearings in late August, its lawyers accused Washington of "strangling" its economy. Foreign drugs are now a rare commodity in Iran which is also dealing with a free-falling rial currency and price hikes. Official Iranian statements acknowledge the shortage and say imports of certain drugs are no longer subsidised. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif called the court ruling "another failure for (the) sanctions-addicted US government and victory for rule of law". The foreign ministry said in a statement that the ruling was a "clear sign" that "Iran is in the right". But US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of "abusing the ICJ for political and propaganda purposes" and noted that the court did not reject US sanctions more broadly. "The court's ruling today was a defeat for Iran. It rightly rejected all of Iran's baseless requests," Pompeo told reporters in Washington. He said that the United States was ending the 1955 friendship treaty, signed when Iran was ruled by the Western-oriented shah. "This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue," Pompeo said, referring to the time since the 1979 Islamic revolution transformed Iran from one of the closest US allies to a sworn foe. "Given Iran's history of terrorism, ballistic missile activity and other malign behaviours, Iran's claims under the treaty are absurd," he said. Zarif said that the move showed the United States to be an "outlaw regime". The end of the treaty will have little direct effect but Iran as well as the United States have cited it in court cases including when Tehran sought compensation when the US Navy downed an Iran Air civilian flight in 1988, killing 290 people. Wednesday's ruling is in fact a decision on so-called provisional measures ahead of a final ruling which may take several more years, experts said. Decisions by the Hague-based ICJ, which rules on disputes between United Nations members, are binding but it has no mechanism through which it can enforce its decisions. - Iran, US ignored rulings - In 1986, Washington disregarded the court's finding that it had violated international law by supporting the pro-US Contra the ICJ's ruling rebels in Nicaragua. Iran in turn ignored the ICJ's ruling in 1980 to release hostages seized when revolutionary zealots took over the US embassy. Trump has repeatedly voiced disdain for international organisations that he sees as limiting US sovereignty. Trump's national security adviser John Bolton recently threatened that the United States would take action against any judge from the separate International Criminal Court who pursues a case against US troops in Afghanistan. Negotiated under his predecessor Barack Obama, Trump argues that the 2015 Iran deal gave Tehran money to support extremist groups and build nuclear-capable missiles. European allies have pledged to keep the agreement alive, with plans for a mechanism to let firms skirt the US sanctions as they do business with Iran. Hearings in a separate Iranian case against the US freezing of around $2 billion of Iranian assets to help American terror victims are due to start at the ICJ next week. Optimization Are you frustrated with a slow pc or a hard disk not performing as it should? Try SLOW-PCfighter to speed up boot time on a slow PC, or try a free scan of FULL-DISKfighter to recover space on a full disk. The latest offering is DRIVERfighter to update your driver updater. Get complete PC optimization and extend the life of your PC with these must-have software tools. English02/10/2018 JANUARY 9 MOTORWAY SYMBOL OF SRPSKAS POWER LAKTASI, October 2 /SRNA/ - President of Republika Srpska Milorad Dodik stated in Drugovici outside Laktasi on Tuesday the January 9 motorway is a symbol of Republika Srpskas power and that the implementation of infrastructure projects will contribute to national integration and economic development. This motorway goes through the centre of Republika Srpska of which I am extremely proud. Republika Srpska has shown it is capable of realising major infrastructure projects, which will be cost-effective too, Dodik stated at the opening of the January 9 motorway section from the settlement of Drugovici to the town of Prnjavor. Republika Srpska is a big construction site today, he said. "We recently opened a modern University Clinical Centre, tomorrow we will open the Bocac hydropower plant, and on Friday we will open a modern hospital in Istocno Sarajevo. Those are some major projects realised this year by this government and Im sure we wont stop there, said Dodik. Without motorways, he said, there can be no new jobs or economic development. The Srpska president thanked everyone who supported the idea of building a network of motorways in Republika Srpska. "Srpska has experienced a hard period of pressures and our destiny is now in our own hands, which we will prove on October 7, said Dodik. He reiterated there could be no freedom without a state and that the state should have motorways and hospitals. "We want peace in these parts and those who want it build motorways, they do not buy weapons. This motorway goes through the heart of Srpska and will go further to Serbia, emphasised Dodik. He thanked Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Serbian leadership for the assistance provided to Republika Srpska. "The unity of Republika Srpska and Serbia is natural because we are a single Serb people. We should not give up on that. We must build our national and state identity, said Dodik, adding Long live Republika Srpska, long live Serbia. Apart from Dodik, the ceremony was attended by National Assembly Speaker Nedeljko Cubrilovic, Prime Minister Zeljka Cvijanovic, Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic, National Assembly Deputy Speaker Nenad Stevandic, Srpska ministers, and Auto-putevi Republike Srpske CEO Dusan Topic. The ceremony in Drugovici was also attended by mayors of Banjaluka Igor Radojicic, Doboj Obren Petrovic, Prnjavor Darko Tomas, Laktasi Ranko Karapetrovic, and numerous citizens. The length of the motorway from Banjaluka to Doboj is 72 kilometres and it was built by the local companies. It can be travelled within an hour. /end/ds Wentworth Resources Limited : Corporate, Operational and Resource Update PRESS RELEASE 3 October 2018 WENTWORTH RESOURCES LIMITED ("Wentworth" or the "Company") Corporate, Operational and Resource Update Transition and Redomicile of the Company As announced on 2 October 2018, following the Company's Special Meeting, and in line with the head office relocation of the Company from Calgary to London previously announced, the re-domicile of the Company to Jersey is progressing on schedule. Following the Special Meeting and the passed resolution related to the Continuance, the Company will now apply to: The Registrar of Corporations in Alberta to grant a certificate of discontinuance; and The Jersey Financial Services Commission for their approval of the Continuance. The Company will also submit a Schedule 1 Pre-Admission Announcement, in order for the Company's shares to be re-admitted to AIM in late October 2018, under the name Wentworth Resources plc and the new TIDM of WEN. On completion of the Continuance, the Proposed Directors, as previously announced, will be appointed to the Board of Wentworth Resources plc. Delisting from Oslo Brs Further to the Special Meeting and the resolution passed related to the application to de-list from Oslo Brs, the Company will shortly submit the delisting application to the Oslo Brs. The Company will make a further announcement, including expected timetable, in respect of this process in due course. Payment and Production update The Company is pleased to inform shareholders that payments received for September 2018 gas sales generated from the Mnazi Bay Concession in Tanzania totaled $3.24 million net to Wentworth. Payments were received from both Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation ("TPDC") and Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited ("TANESCO") for one month's gas sales to TPDC and one month's gas sales to TANESCO. The Company also reports that gross production volumes during September 2018 from the Mnazi Bay concession averaged 83.2 MMscfd. The September reduction in production volumes (August average of 87.9 MMscfd) was due to previously planned slick-line activities on the wells and TPDC hot-tapping operations for the Lodhia Steel works offtake. Given the consistency of payments received to date in 2018, the Company no longer intends to release monthly updates to the market. Such information will be included in regular Corporate and Operational activity RNS updates. Tanzania: Mnazi Bay PSA The Mnazi Bay Production Sharing Agreement ("Mnazi Bay"), is located onshore southern Tanzania (Mtwara region), approximately 410 km south of Dar es Salaam, covering an area of 756 km2. The Mnazi Bay asset is operated by Maurel et Prom (48.06%) with the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation "TPDC" (20%) and Wentworth Resources (31.94%) as joint venture partners. The Mnazi Bay & Msimbati gas fields have been onstream and continuously producing since January 2007, initially through a testing and commissioning phase at c.2.5MMscfd to Mtwara. In October 2015, the Madimba gas processing plant was completed and commissioned, allowing production to be ramped up to 44 MMscfd in 2016. Production continued to grow to c.50 MMscfd in 2017. In 2018 production has averaged 82 MMscfd year to date and 86 MMscfd in Q3, from five producing wells. The Joint Venture is contracted ("DCQ") to supply 82.5 MMscfd, with a Gas Sales Agreement ("GSA") option to increase to 130 MMscfd. The increase in production to the current plateau levels, has resulted in operating expenses being reduced from $1.16/Mscf in H1 2017 to $0.43/Mscf in H1 2018, as the mainly fixed costs are distributed over a larger production base. Within Tanzania, Mnazi Bay is currently the pre-eminent domestic gas to power ("GTP") supplier, with a c.53% market share. Tanzanian power generation capacity is currently c.1,500 MW, with some 780 MW derived from Natural gas. Demand for Mnazi Bay gas is currently in excess of 95 MMscfd. Future demand is ramping up significantly, with Mtwara, Sumanga-Fungo, Kinyerezi III and Kinyerezi IV power plants all planned, with a projected combined additional demand of 180 MMscfd. To the Company's knowledge, there are currently no uncommitted onshore 2P gas reserves to supply the near to mid-term demand requirements. As part of the redomicile and AIM re-admission process, the Company commissioned an RPS Canada Competent Persons Report ("CPR") evaluation of the Mnazi Bay field's reserves which has resulted in gross 2P reserves of 541 Bscf of gas, with 111 Bscf of net attributable 2P reserves to Wentworth Resources (with an effective date 31 May 2018). The NPV 15 of the 2P reserves (net to Wentworth) was estimated at $121 million USD after tax (on a life-of-field basis). RPS Canada estimated the upside reserves potential (3P) for the Mnazi Bay field at 817/152 Bscf (gross/net). This CPR is available on the Company's website as of today and a reserves summary table follows below. Oil and Gas - Reserves at 31 May 2018 Mnazi Bay Licence, Tanzania Gross1 Net Attributable2 Operator Proved Proved + Probable Proved + Probable + Possible Proved Proved + Probable Proved + Probable + Possible Oil & Liquids Reserves MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb Mnazi Bay Gas Field - - - - - - Maurel et Prom Total for Oil and Liquids - - - - - - Gas Reserves Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Mnazi Bay Gas Field 295 541 817 69 111 152 Maurel et Prom Total for Gas 295 541 817 69 111 152 "Gross" are 100% of reserves attributable to the asset "Net Attributable" are the net reserves volumes attributable to Wentworth Activity & Production Outlook Given the field is producing on plateau from the current well stock, Joint Venture technical and operational activity has focused on better understanding in-place volumes, reservoir connectivity, future production profiles, outlining infill well locations and defining additional exploration potential on the block. These initiatives combine to ensure an integrated and pro-active field management strategy moving forwards. From late August to early September 2018, slickline operations were performed in the MB-2, MB-3, MB-4, and MS-1X wells to remove downhole memory gauges, perform static pressure gradient surveys, and re-install downhole memory gauges. This pressure monitoring campaign is ongoing and will help to address the remaining uncertainty with regards to the in-place (and recoverable) volumes in the Mnazi Bay field and the connectivity between the wells in the different reservoir intervals, with particular near-term focus on the lower MB interval, currently producing from the MB-1 well only. Critically, the Mnazi Bay partners are working closely together to ascertain production profiles and plateau periods that can be achieved for different recoverable volumes, flow rates, pipeline inlet pressures and compression scenarios. The results from this work suggest that at current stabilized production of 82.5-90 MMscfd, the plateau can be maintained until sometime between mid-2024 and late-2026, with limited capital expenditures ("CAPEX"). Although the GSA provides the option for volumes of up to 130 MMscfd to be delivered, the Company does not believe this will be achieved until certain commercial conditions have been satisfied. In order to increase field production rates closer to a 130 MMscfd plateau, while still maintaining the capability to provide minimum contractual volumes of 80 MMscfd to Madimba (TPDC) and 2.5 MMscfd to Mtwara (TANESCO), Wentworth believes that additional well recompletions and/or drilling and compression facilities will be required in due course. In order to sustain and/or increase the Mnazi Bay production plateau Wentworth (along with the Operator) is focused on four key value catalysts: Securing a full GSA to move to Commercial Operations Date "COD" declaration. As a result of the COD, the testing and commissioning period will end and all terms of the GSA will become effective. Maintaining the production plateau to comply with the GSA, by focusing on network modifications including upgrading well flowline chokes, together with slickline jobs to open existing perforated intervals and conducting new perforations in unperforated horizons. This is made operationally simpler by the MB-2, MB-3, MB-4 and MS-1X wells having smart well completions, with sliding sleeves. A reduction in the contractual optimum pipeline delivery point pressure from 95 bar(g) to 60 bar(g), which would allow for increased volumes per well, and sustained overall production rates and/or plateau periods from the current well stock, prior to installation of compression facilities. This is technically and operationally realizable, has the potential to extend the production plateau by c. 18 months on a standalone basis and c.42 months including slickline and chokes upgrade work; and is immediately accretive to asset value. Renewal of the PSA, which will push expiration out a further 10 years, until 2041, thereby facilitating the commercial rationale for additional CAPEX to unlock the 2C and the 3P resource base. Unlocking these commercial triggers will allow the Joint Venture to extend and increase the current production plateau of 82.5-90 MMscfd with confidence, as well as access, unlock and convert the existing material prospective resource base to 2P reserves. Discussions are ongoing between the Joint Venture and various Tanzanian stakeholders to secure fair and equable agreement on these issues. Exploration Activity Wentworth has undertaken a detailed review of the exploration potential of the greater Mnazi Bay area and as such has identified a material prospect and lead inventory. Seven of the highest potential leads were evaluated by RPS Canada as part of the reserves and resources evaluation, which ascribed P 50 full block gross prospective resources at greater than 1.5 Tcf. Wentworth is currently working with the operator to determine how to best de-risk the running room portfolio and developing a strategic plan towards converting these resources to future 2C and 2P reserves. Mozambique: Tembo Block Appraisal Licence The Tembo Block Appraisal Licence ("Tembo"), which has an area of approximately 2,500 km2 is located in north-eastern Mozambique, approximately 1,800 km north of Maputo and 100 km southwest of the Mnazi Bay field in the onshore Rovuma Basin. The block is operated by Wentworth Resources (85%) with Empresa Nacional de Hidrocarbonetos ("ENH"; 15%) as a carried partner. In 2014, the Tembo-1 exploration well was drilled to the Cretaceous where it encountered strong gas shows, logged a hydrocarbon pay interval section, and was declared a technical discovery. In June 2016, the Instituto Nacional de Petroleo ("INP") granted approval for an appraisal plan for the Tembo-1 gas discovery, with a two-year appraisal period. During the first two-year appraisal period Wentworth reprocessed c. 1,000 km of 2D seismic data and conducted pre-drill activities including well planning and design and scouting of the proposed wellsite location. In addition, from late Q4 2017 the Company reached out to the market to secure a partner to farm-in for the proposed Tembo-2 appraisal well. In June 2018, partly due to above ground security issues and an inability to secure a risk-sharing partner, a further one-year extension was granted, extending the licence until 15 June 2019 with no additional work commitments or exit penalties. Activity & Outlook In Q3 2018, Wentworth commenced a detailed re-evaluation of the Tembo discovery, creating an updated basin model which integrated in-house analysis of the Tembo-1 discovery, including re-interpretation of all the existing block and regional 2D seismic data, reservoir & rock properties, in-place and recoverable volumes, reservoir flow rates, deliverability and well-based economics. This in-house study, which was concluded after the RPS CPR evaluation was finalized, suggests that the primary "Q sand" package as mapped on the reprocessed 2D seismic likely has in-place Pmean gross volumes of c.87 Bscf with recoverable volumes of c.61 Bscf. Set out below are management estimates of Prospective Resources Assessment for the Tembo prospect. Oil and Gas - Prospective Resources Tembo Appraisal Area, Mozambique1 Gross2 Net Attributable3 Risk Factor4 Operator Proved Proved + Probable Proved + Probable + Possible Proved Proved + Probable Proved + Probable + Possible Oil & Liquids Reserves MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb - - - - - - Total for Oil and Liquids - - - - - - Gas Reserves Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Tembo Q Sand Prospect, Base of Slope Fan 10 61 151 9 52 128 42.1%4 Wentworth Total for Gas 10 61 151 9 52 128 Management internal estimates "Gross" are 100% of resources attributable to the asset "Net Attributable" are the net resources volumes attributable to Wentworth "Risk Factor" is the Geological Probability of Success and does not include any evaluation of the commerciality of the resources. The downward volumetric revisions have predominantly been driven by a decrease in the interpreted reservoir storage properties and a more restricted sand fairway system. The Company is of the view that a gas discovery of this size with sub-commercial flow rates is highly likely to be stranded given the lack of adjacent infrastructure. As part of the Company's Transition and Redomicile process, RPS Canada was required to conduct a CPR of the Tembo discovery. This evaluation which commenced in May 2018, was undertaken incorporating a legacy subsurface model, prior the above in-house evaluation. RPS Canada, has determined, based on the prior Wentworth work that the Tembo prospect has Best estimate P mean gross risked prospective resources of 262 Bscf, with a 30% chance of expected Commercial success, further noting "there is a wide range of uncertainty in the estimated volume". This CPR report is available on the Company's website as of today. The updated in-house assessment of Tembo, coupled with the lack of a risk-sharing partner and above ground concerns, all point to further appraisal well activities not being commercially supported by the Company. Wentworth continues to evaluate remaining Cretaceous and Tertiary potential in the greater onshore Rovuma Basin as part of its evaluation activities in Mozambique, where it has a significant in-house data set, established regional expertise, operational capabilities, and importantly substantive relationships with ENH and INP, in what is a rapidly developing LNG (and domestic gas) region of Mozambique. Eskil Jersing, CEO, commented: "Since my arrival in late June, we have undertaken a thorough technical review of the company's asset portfolio. I am excited by the potential of Wentworth's principal Mnazi Bay asset in Tanzania, and believe our focus is to work closely with the operator and key stakeholders in country to progress a value-led technical and operational strategy that extracts as much of the field's undoubted potential as possible in a commercially attractive manner. Our work to better understand commercially realizable opportunities available in Mozambique continues unabated. As a result of our having the corporate team in London working very closely with our Dar es Salaam team and asset partners, I believe we are now better placed to both drive the business operationally and communicate with our market, especially investors and Analysts. In addition, our being in the UK will also enable us to access and execute on M&A led opportunities in order to secure accretionary value for the Company in this next phase of growth. I look forward to updating investors in due course.' -Ends- Enquiries: Wentworth Bob McBean, Executive Chairman Eskil Jersing, Chief Executive Officer Katherine Roe, Chief Financial Officer rpm@wentworthresources.com eskil.jersing@wentworthresources.com +44 7717 847623 katherine.roe@wentworthresources.com +44 7841 087 230 Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited AIM Nominated Adviser and Broker (UK) Callum Stewart Ashton Clanfield +44 (0) 20 7710 7600 Peel Hunt LLP Broker (UK) Richard Crichton Ross Allister +44 (0) 20 7418 8900 Vigo Investor Relations Adviser (UK) Patrick d'Ancona Chris McMahon Kate Rogucheva +44 (0) 20 7930 0230 About Wentworth Resources Wentworth Resources is a publicly traded (OSE: WRL, AIM: WRL), independent oil & gas company with natural gas production; exploration and appraisal opportunities, all in the Rovuma Delta Basin of coastal southern Tanzania and northern Mozambique. Inside Information The information contained within this announcement is deemed by Wentworth to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) no. 596/2014 ("MAR"). On the publication of this announcement via a Regulatory Information Service ("RIS"), this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain. Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements This press release may contain certain forward-looking information. The words "expect", "anticipate", believe", "estimate", "may", "will", "should", "intend", "forecast", "plan", and similar expressions are used to identify forward looking information. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made in light of management's experience, current conditions and expected future development in the areas in which Wentworth is currently active and other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. Wentworth undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predicted outcome will not occur, including some of which are beyond Wentworth's control. These assumptions and risks include, but are not limited to: the risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general such as operational risks in exploration, development and production, delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures, the imprecision of resource and reserve estimates, assumptions regarding the timing and costs relating to production and development as well as the availability and price of labour and equipment, volatility of and assumptions regarding commodity prices and exchange rates, marketing and transportation risks, environmental risks, competition, the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources and changes in applicable law. Additionally, there are economic, political, social and other risks inherent in carrying on business in Tanzania and Mozambique. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could vary or differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. See Wentworth's Management's Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2017, available on Wentworth's website, for further description of the risks and uncertainties associated with Wentworth's business. These assessments are made in accordance with the standard defined in the SPE/WPC Petroleum Resources Management System (2007) and the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook ("COGEH"). Cameron Snow, Head of Subsurface and Business Development, and an Exploration Geoscientist with over 12 years of experience across North America, South America, Africa, and Australia, has read and approved the technical disclosure in this regulatory announcement. Mr. Snow holds a BS in Geology from North Carolina State University, a MS in Geology from Utah State University, a PhD in Geological and Environmental Science from Stanford University, and an MBA from Imperial College of London. Mr. Snow is a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers. Glossary Bscf Billion standard cubic feet Contingent Resources Quantities of petroleum estimated, as at a given date, to be potentially recoverable from known accumulations, but the applied project(s) are not yet considered mature enough for commercial development due to one or more contingencies MMscfd Milion standard cubic feet per day MMstb Million stock tank barrels MW Mega Watt Gross Reserves Reserves volumes before deductions for royalty Net Reserves Reserves volumes after deduction of royalty NPV Net present value 2C Best estimate scenario of contingent resources 1P Proved Reserves, those quantities of petroleum, which, by analysis of geoscience and engineering data, can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be commercially recoverable, from a given date forward, from known reservoirs and under defined economic conditions, operating methods, and government regulations. 2P Proved + Probable Reserves, those additional Reserves which analysis of geoscience and engineering data indicate are less likely to be recovered than Proved Reserves but more certain to be recovered than Possible Reserves. It is equally likely that actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater than or less than the sum of the estimated Proved plus Probable Reserves 3P Proved + Probable + Possible Reserves, those additional reserves which analysis of geoscience and engineering data suggest are less likely to be recoverable than Probable Reserves. Prospective Resources Petroleum deposits that are estimated, on a given date, to be potentially recoverable from accumulations yet to be discovered Reserves Quantities of petroleum anticipated to be commercially recoverable by application of development projects to known accumulations from a given date forward under defined conditions. TCF Trillion cubic feet WI Working interest attributable to Wentworth Notice Neither the Oslo Stock Exchange nor the AIM Market of the London Stock Exchange has reviewed this press release and neither accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. This information is subject of the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. This announcement is distributed by West Corporation on behalf of West Corporation clients. The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein. Source: Wentworth Resources Limited via Globenewswire Shares is the leading weekly publication for retail investors. It is packed with investment ideas, news and educational material to help build and run portfolios and get more from your money. Shares puts on free Investor Events throughout the year across the country. They provide an opportunity for investors to learn more about companies on the stock market and hear from a range of investment experts including fund managers and Shares journalists. Unlike the other La Gloria Cubana with which this cigar shares a namethe Serie R Estelithis is not a Nicaraguan puro. In fact, only the wrapper, a dark, oily leaf from the acclaimed Jalapa Valley, is from Nicaragua. The binder is from the southern Honduran area of Jamastran, while the filler combines tobacco from there and from the western area of La Entrada. General Cigar says the name is in honor of the artisans of our factory in Esteli who did a fantastic job creating the blend, which General calls a modern, fuller-bodied take on the classic La Gloria smoking experience. The Robustos I smoked are one of three sizes for the new release: Robusto (4.5 x 52, $4.99), Toro (5.5 x 54, $5.99), and Gigante (6.25 x 60, $6.99). The wrapper, surprisingly, offers little pre-light aroma. Its an easy light and the opening puffs have a deep, charred flavor. Soon, there is a good bit of spice and a little sweetness, which increases in the final third. Along the way I also picked up some cedar and earthiness. Strength was in the medium range. Although I havent smoked the other vitolas, the Robusto strikes me as an excellent size. It is not a particularly complex cigar, and in 4.5 inches you can fully experience the blend. The draw was good in each of those I smoked, and the ash held tightly. The burn did require a couple of minor touch-ups that werent significant enough to affect the experience. If you go searching for the La Gloria Cubana Esteli, you might need a sharp eye. While the single band includes the word Esteli in all caps, a shopper could be forgiven for becoming confused by the brands seemingly endless lineup. The non-Cuban La Gloria Cubanagot its start in Miami in the early 1970s and gained an enthusiastic national following during the 1990s cigar boom. Since Ernesto Perez-Carrillo sold the brand in 1999, General Cigar has pumped out extension after extension, some influential and long-lasting, some limited editions, and some eventually killed. And though Perez-Carrillo left General in 2007 to start his own brand, last year he joined in creating La Gloria Cubana Coleccion Reserva, which is rolled at his factory. Over the years, StogieGuys.com has reviewed a dozen La Gloria Cubana cigars, with an impressive two-thirds of them receiving ratings of four stogies or higher. This latest iteration earns three and a half stogies out of five. [To read more StogieGuys.com cigar reviews, please click here.] George E photo credit: Stogie Guys WARWICK stages the second meeting of the courses new 2018-19 season on Thursday, when the highlight of the afternoon is the Class 3 Colliers International Rating Services Handicap Chase over two-and-a-half miles, writes David Hucker. Cotswold trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies had ten entries in all across the six-race card and has chosen course and distance winner Templehills in the feature. He has been allotted 12-2 in what looks a wide-open handicap and has to give 9lbs in weight to dual chase winner Chirico Vallis. Owned by JP McManus, Neil Mulhollands runner has fallen in two of his six chases although might be forgiven for struggling to keep pace with the highly-rated Saint Calvados, when making mistakes and coming down at the sixth fence at Newbury in December. There is also a good prize on offer for the Ignite Incentives Handicap Hurdle over two miles and five furlongs in which ten-times winner Play The Ace reverts to hurdles after being unplaced over fences at Perth last month. He has won two novice events this year, including beating Motueka at Southwell, and that horse boosted the form when winning at Newton Abbot on Monday. He doesnt look over-burdened from a mark of 125 and looks to have Kentford Heiress, who always runs a good race, to beat. Course ambassador Dan Skelton runs Desirable Court, a winner over hurdles when trained by Alan King, from his two entries in the UBS Beginners' Chase. Formerly owned by Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, she was a wide-margin winner at Newton Abbot on her racecourse debut, having won her only point-to-point in Ireland, and should make a bold show here. However, the one that catches the eye is multiple hurdle winner Marias Benefit, who was rated at 152 at her peak from and, if taking to fences, should have too much class for Desirable Court and the only other runner Knocknanuss, another with winning form in point-to-points. Wilmcote trainer Olly Murphy runs General Custard from his two entries in the opening Wee Maggie Dixte 50th Birthday "National Hunt" Novices' Hurdle over two miles. Champion jockey Richard Johnson again takes the ride, having been on board when General Custard was pulled up on his last run at the course in March. Nigel Twiston-Davies also had two entries in the race and has elected to run Topofthecotswolds, runner-up to Murphys Itchy Feet in a Stratford bumper last month. With the winner having made a successful debut over hurdles this week, that form could be good enough to see him win here. Nine have been declared for the Penguin Pay Maiden Hurdle over two miles and five furlongs and it might be worth taking a chance with point-to-point winner Little Miss Darsi, who makes her Rules debut for trainer Charlie Mann. Newton Abbot winner Hoponandsee was runner-up to Kristal Hart at Stratford and, with the winner scoring again at Warwicks opening meeting last week, must have a chance from bottom weight in the concluding ROA/Racing Post Owners' Jackpot Mares' Handicap Hurdle over two miles. Soiesauvage won from a handicap mark of 86 at Uttoxeter a year ago and returned to the course to record her second victory off an effective rating of 102 last month. She has been put up to a new handicap mark of 107 but, even with her penalty, she runs from 99 here, so its not surprising that trainer Sophie Leech is looking to strike whilst the irons hot. Time running out for survivors as Indonesia toll nears 1,400 Wani, Indonesia, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 The death toll in Indonesia's twin quake-tsunami disaster rose to nearly 1,400 Wednesday, with time running out to rescue survivors and the UN warning of "vast" unmet needs. Authorities set a tentative deadline of Friday to find anyone still trapped under rubble, at which point -- a week after this devastating double disaster -- the chances of finding survivors will dwindle to almost zero. Government rescue workers are focusing on half a dozen key sites around the ravaged seaside city of Palu -- the Hotel Roa-Roa where up to 60 people are still believed buried, a shopping mall, a restaurant and the Balaroa area where the sheer force of the quake turned the earth temporarily to mush. Almost 200,000 people need urgent help, the UN's humanitarian office said, among them tens of thousands of children, with an estimated 66,000 homes destroyed or damaged by the 7.5-magnitude quake and the tsunami it spawned. Despite the Indonesian government urging foreign rescue teams to "stand down" because the crisis was in hand, residents in hard-hit, remote villages like Wani in Donggala province say little help has arrived and hope is fading. "Twelve people in this area haven't yet been found," Mohammad Thahir Talib told AFP. "In the area to the south, because there hasn't been an evacuation we don't know if there are bodies. It's possible there are more," the 39-year-old said. In Geneva, the United Nations expressed frustration at the slow pace of the response. "There are still large areas of what might be the worst-affected areas that haven't been properly reached, but the teams are pushing, they are doing what they can," Jens Laerke, from the UN's humanitarian office, told reporters late Tuesday. The World Health Organization has estimated that across Donggala, some 310,000 people have been affected by the disaster. Survivors are battling thirst and hunger, with food and clean water in short supply, and local hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of injured. Officials on the ground said that while the government was now inviting offers of help, there is still no "mechanism for this to be implemented". Landing slots at Palu airport are snapped up by the Indonesian military, although it was expected to be open to commercial flights from 7:59am on Thursday. Palu's port, a key transit point for aid, has been damaged. Signs of desperation are growing, with police officers forced to fire warning shots and teargas on Tuesday to ward off people ransacking shops. Six of the Indonesian social affairs ministry's trucks laden with supplies were reportedly looted enroute to Palu. In the main route north out of the city, an AFP journalist saw youths blocking the road and ask for "donations" to clear the way. Widodo, who faces reelection next year, insisted the military and the police were in full control. "There is no such thing as looting," he said on a visit to Palu. - Body bag shortage - As survivors pick through the shattered remains of their neighbourhoods, the death toll continues to rise. "The death toll is now 1,374, 113 missing," Willem Rampangilei, head of Indonesia's national disaster agency, told reporters in Palu on Tuesday. "And there are still a few bodies trapped under the rubble. We don't know how many. Our priority is still to find and save people," he added. The Indonesia-based ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance said that more body bags were "urgently" needed as fears grow that decomposing corpses could provide a breeding ground for deadly diseases. Rescue efforts have been hampered by a lack of heavy machinery, severed transport links and the scale of the damage. In yet another reminder of Indonesia's vulnerability to natural disasters, the Soputan Volcano in Sulawesi erupted Wednesday, spewing volcanic ash up to 4,000 metres above the crater. The state disaster agency warned people to stay at least four kilometres (two and a half miles) away, but said there was no need to evacuate for the time being. International aid offers have picked up since Jakarta's belated request for help, with the UN's Central Emergency Response Fund announcing late Tuesday that it was releasing $15 million in aid. On Wednesday, Australia said it was sending a medical team to the disaster zone and providing an additional $5 million in aid. - 'There's no toilet' - With power returning to some parts of Palu late Tuesday and phone networks back up and running, there were some signs of things getting back to normal. But for most, daily life has changed beyond all recognition. Palu residents crowded around daisy-chained power strips at the few buildings with electricity, or queued for water, cash or petrol being brought in via armed police convoy. Queues to get a few litres of petrol lasted more than 24 hours in some places. Sanitation is also a growing problem. "People everywhere want to go to the toilet but there's no toilet. So we do it along the road at night," said 50-year-old Armawati Yarmin. Indonesia sits along the Pacific "Ring of Fire", the world's most tectonically active region, and its 260 million people remain hugely vulnerable to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions. Time running out for survivors as Indonesia toll tops 1,400 Wani, Indonesia, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 The death toll in Indonesia's twin quake-tsunami disaster passed 1,400 Wednesday, with time running out to rescue survivors and the UN warning of "vast" unmet needs. Authorities have set a tentative deadline of Friday to find anyone still trapped under rubble, at which point -- a week after this devastating double disaster on Sulawesi island -- the chances of finding survivors will dwindle to almost zero. Military spokesman M. Thohir said the number of confirmed dead has risen to 1,411, while the disaster agency said 519 bodies have already been buried. Government rescue workers seeking survivors are focusing on half a dozen key sites around the seaside city of Palu -- the Hotel Roa-Roa where up to 60 people are still believed buried, a shopping mall, a restaurant and the Balaroa area where the sheer force of the quake turned the earth temporarily to mush. At least 150 people are unaccounted for beneath the rubble, officials said. According to the UN's humanitarian office almost 200,000 people need urgent help, among them tens of thousands of children, with an estimated 66,000 homes destroyed or damaged by the 7.5-magnitude quake and the tsunami it spawned. Despite the Indonesian government urging foreign rescue teams to "stand down" because the crisis was in hand, residents in hard-hit, remote villages like Wani in Donggala province say little help has arrived and hope is fading. "Twelve people in this area haven't yet been found," Mohammad Thahir Talib told AFP. "In the area to the south, because there hasn't been an evacuation we don't know if there are bodies. It's possible there are more," the 39-year-old said. In Geneva, the United Nations expressed frustration at the slow pace of the response. "There are still large areas of what might be the worst-affected areas that haven't been properly reached, but the teams are pushing, they are doing what they can," Jens Laerke, from the UN's humanitarian office, told reporters late Tuesday. The World Health Organization has estimated that across Donggala, some 310,000 people have been affected by the disaster. Survivors are battling thirst and hunger, with food and clean water in short supply, and local hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of injured. Officials on the ground said that while the government was now inviting offers of help, there is still no "mechanism for this to be implemented". Landing slots at Palu airport are snapped up by the Indonesian military, although it was expected to be open to commercial flights from 7:59am on Thursday. Palu's port, a key transit point for aid, has been damaged. Signs of desperation are growing, with police officers forced to fire warning shots and teargas to ward off people ransacking shops. Six of the Indonesian social affairs ministry's trucks laden with supplies were reportedly looted enroute to Palu and on one route out of the city, an AFP journalist saw youths blocking the road and asking for "donations". On the outskirts of the city, hundreds of people sifted through the ruins of a collapsed factory, salvaging food, drinks and construction materials. Indonesia President Joko Widodo, who faces reelection next year, insisted the military and the police were in full control. "There is no such thing as looting," he said on a visit to Palu. - Body bag shortage - As survivors pick through the shattered remains of their neighbourhoods, the death toll continues to rise. The Indonesia-based ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance said that more body bags were "urgently" needed as fears grow that decomposing corpses could provide a breeding ground for deadly diseases. Rescue efforts have been hampered by a lack of heavy machinery, severed transport links and the scale of the damage. In yet another reminder of Indonesia's vulnerability to natural disasters, the Soputan Volcano in Sulawesi erupted Wednesday, spewing volcanic ash up to 4,000 metres above the crater. The state disaster agency warned people to stay at least four kilometres (two and a half miles) away, but said there was no need to evacuate for the time being. International aid offers have picked up since Jakarta's belated request for help, with the UN's Central Emergency Response Fund announcing late Tuesday that it was releasing $15 million in aid. On Wednesday, Australia said it was sending a medical team to the disaster zone and providing an additional $5 million in aid. - 'There's no toilet' - With power returning to parts of Palu late Tuesday and phone networks back up and running, there were some signs of things getting back to normal. But for most, daily life has changed beyond all recognition. Palu residents crowded around daisy-chained power strips at the few buildings with electricity, or queued for water, cash or petrol being brought in via armed police convoy. Queues to get a few litres of petrol lasted more than 24 hours in some places. Sanitation is also a growing problem. "People everywhere want to go to the toilet but there's no toilet. So we do it along the road at night," said 50-year-old Armawati Yarmin. Indonesia sits along the Pacific "Ring of Fire", the world's most tectonically active region, and its 260 million people remain hugely vulnerable to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions. CORRECTED: Time running out for survivors as Indonesia toll tops 1,400 Wani, Indonesia, Oct 3 (AFP) Oct 03, 2018 The death toll in Indonesia's twin quake-tsunami disaster passed 1,400 Wednesday, with time running out to rescue survivors and the UN warning of "vast" unmet needs that have fuelled looting. Indonesian soldiers have been ordered to fire on those raiding stores on the quake and tsunami-struck island of Sulawesi, a colonel told AFP, after desperate survivors emptied shops of food and water. Meanwhile the authorities have set a tentative deadline of Friday to find anyone still trapped under rubble, at which point -- a week after this devastating double disaster -- the chances of finding survivors will dwindle to almost zero. Military spokesman M. Thohir said the number of confirmed dead has risen to 1,411, while the disaster agency said 519 bodies have already been buried. Government rescue workers seeking survivors are focusing on half a dozen key sites around the seaside city of Palu -- the Hotel Roa-Roa where up to 60 people are still believed buried, a shopping mall, a restaurant and the Balaroa area where the sheer force of the quake turned the earth temporarily to mush. At a minimum, 150 people are unaccounted for beneath the rubble, officials said. According to the UN's humanitarian office almost 200,000 people need urgent help, among them tens of thousands of children, with an estimated 66,000 homes destroyed or damaged by the 7.5-magnitude quake and the tsunami it spawned. Despite the Indonesian government having earlier urged foreign rescue teams to "stand down" because the crisis was in hand, residents in hard-hit, remote villages like Wani in Donggala province say little help has arrived and hope is fading. "Twelve people in this area haven't yet been found," Mohammad Thahir Talib told AFP. "In the area to the south, because there hasn't been an evacuation we don't know if there are bodies. It's possible there are more," the 39-year-old said. The Red Cross expressed frustration at the slow pace of the response. "There are still large areas of what might be the worst-affected areas that haven't been properly reached, but the teams are pushing, they are doing what they can," said Matthew Cochrane, a spokesman for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The World Health Organization has estimated that across Donggala, some 310,000 people have been affected by the disaster. Survivors are battling thirst and hunger, with food and clean water in short supply, and local hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of injured. Officials on the ground said that while the government had now invited offers of help, there is still no "mechanism for this to be implemented". Landing slots at Palu airport are snapped up by the Indonesian military, although it was slated to be open to commercial flights from 7:59am on Thursday (2359 GMT Wednesday). Signs of desperation are growing, with police officers forced to fire warning shots and teargas to ward off people ransacking shops. "If there is looting again, we will quickly fire a warning shot and then shoot to immobilise," said military colonel Ida Dewa Agung Hadisaputra. Six of the Indonesian social affairs ministry's trucks laden with supplies were reportedly looted enroute to Palu and on one route out of the city, an AFP journalist saw youths blocking the road and asking for "donations". On the outskirts of the city, hundreds of people sifted through the ruins of a collapsed factory, salvaging food, drinks and construction materials. Indonesia President Joko Widodo, who faces reelection next year, insisted the military and the police were in full control. "There is no such thing as looting," he said on a visit to Palu. - Body bag shortage - As survivors pick through the shattered remains of their neighbourhoods, the death toll continues to rise. The Indonesia-based ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance said that more body bags were "urgently" needed as fears grow that decomposing corpses could provide a breeding ground for deadly diseases. Rescue efforts have been hampered by a lack of heavy machinery, severed transport links and the scale of the damage. In yet another reminder of Indonesia's vulnerability to natural disasters, the Soputan Volcano in Sulawesi erupted Wednesday, spewing volcanic ash up to 4,000 metres above the crater. - 'There's no toilet' - With power returning to parts of Palu late Tuesday, phone networks back up and running and even some markets opening for business, there were the faintest signs of things getting back to normal. But for most, daily life has changed beyond all recognition. Palu residents crowded around daisy-chained power strips at the few buildings with electricity, or queued for water, cash or petrol being brought in via armed police convoy. Queues to get a few litres of petrol lasted more than 24 hours in some places. Sanitation is also a growing problem. "People everywhere want to go to the toilet but there's no toilet. So we do it along the road at night," said 50-year-old Armawati Yarmin. Indonesia sits along the Pacific "Ring of Fire", the world's most tectonically active region, and its 260 million people remain hugely vulnerable to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions. PRESS RELEASE 3 October 2018 WENTWORTH RESOURCES LIMITED ("Wentworth" or the "Company") Corporate, Operational and Resource Update Transition and Redomicile of the Company As announced on 2 October 2018, following the Company's Special Meeting, and in line with the head office relocation of the Company from Calgary to London previously announced, the re-domicile of the Company to Jersey is progressing on schedule. Following the Special Meeting and the passed resolution related to the Continuance, the Company will now apply to: The Registrar of Corporations in Alberta to grant a certificate of discontinuance; and The Jersey Financial Services Commission for their approval of the Continuance. The Company will also submit a Schedule 1 Pre-Admission Announcement, in order for the Company's shares to be re-admitted to AIM in late October 2018, under the name Wentworth Resources plc and the new TIDM of WEN. On completion of the Continuance, the Proposed Directors, as previously announced, will be appointed to the Board of Wentworth Resources plc. Delisting from Oslo Brs Further to the Special Meeting and the resolution passed related to the application to de-list from Oslo Brs, the Company will shortly submit the delisting application to the Oslo Brs. The Company will make a further announcement, including expected timetable, in respect of this process in due course. Payment and Production update The Company is pleased to inform shareholders that payments received for September 2018 gas sales generated from the Mnazi Bay Concession in Tanzania totaled $3.24 million net to Wentworth. Payments were received from both Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation ("TPDC") and Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited ("TANESCO") for one month's gas sales to TPDC and one month's gas sales to TANESCO. The Company also reports that gross production volumes during September 2018 from the Mnazi Bay concession averaged 83.2 MMscfd. The September reduction in production volumes (August average of 87.9 MMscfd) was due to previously planned slick-line activities on the wells and TPDC hot-tapping operations for the Lodhia Steel works offtake. Given the consistency of payments received to date in 2018, the Company no longer intends to release monthly updates to the market. Such information will be included in regular Corporate and Operational activity RNS updates. Tanzania: Mnazi Bay PSA The Mnazi Bay Production Sharing Agreement ("Mnazi Bay"), is located onshore southern Tanzania (Mtwara region), approximately 410 km south of Dar es Salaam, covering an area of 756 km2. The Mnazi Bay asset is operated by Maurel et Prom (48.06%) with the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation "TPDC" (20%) and Wentworth Resources (31.94%) as joint venture partners. The Mnazi Bay & Msimbati gas fields have been onstream and continuously producing since January 2007, initially through a testing and commissioning phase at c.2.5MMscfd to Mtwara. In October 2015, the Madimba gas processing plant was completed and commissioned, allowing production to be ramped up to 44 MMscfd in 2016. Production continued to grow to c.50 MMscfd in 2017. In 2018 production has averaged 82 MMscfd year to date and 86 MMscfd in Q3, from five producing wells. The Joint Venture is contracted ("DCQ") to supply 82.5 MMscfd, with a Gas Sales Agreement ("GSA") option to increase to 130 MMscfd. The increase in production to the current plateau levels, has resulted in operating expenses being reduced from $1.16/Mscf in H1 2017 to $0.43/Mscf in H1 2018, as the mainly fixed costs are distributed over a larger production base. Within Tanzania, Mnazi Bay is currently the pre-eminent domestic gas to power ("GTP") supplier, with a c.53% market share. Tanzanian power generation capacity is currently c.1,500 MW, with some 780 MW derived from Natural gas. Demand for Mnazi Bay gas is currently in excess of 95 MMscfd. Future demand is ramping up significantly, with Mtwara, Sumanga-Fungo, Kinyerezi III and Kinyerezi IV power plants all planned, with a projected combined additional demand of 180 MMscfd. To the Company's knowledge, there are currently no uncommitted onshore 2P gas reserves to supply the near to mid-term demand requirements. As part of the redomicile and AIM re-admission process, the Company commissioned an RPS Canada Competent Persons Report ("CPR") evaluation of the Mnazi Bay field's reserves which has resulted in gross 2P reserves of 541 Bscf of gas, with 111 Bscf of net attributable 2P reserves to Wentworth Resources (with an effective date 31 May 2018). The NPV 15 of the 2P reserves (net to Wentworth) was estimated at $121 million USD after tax (on a life-of-field basis). RPS Canada estimated the upside reserves potential (3P) for the Mnazi Bay field at 817/152 Bscf (gross/net). This CPR is available on the Company's website as of today and a reserves summary table follows below. Oil and Gas - Reserves at 31 May 2018 Mnazi Bay Licence, Tanzania Gross1 Net Attributable2 Operator Proved Proved + Probable Proved + Probable + Possible Proved Proved + Probable Proved + Probable + Possible Oil & Liquids Reserves MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb Mnazi Bay Gas Field - - - - - - Maurel et Prom Total for Oil and Liquids - - - - - - Gas Reserves Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Mnazi Bay Gas Field 295 541 817 69 111 152 Maurel et Prom Total for Gas 295 541 817 69 111 152 "Gross" are 100% of reserves attributable to the asset "Net Attributable" are the net reserves volumes attributable to Wentworth Activity & Production Outlook Given the field is producing on plateau from the current well stock, Joint Venture technical and operational activity has focused on better understanding in-place volumes, reservoir connectivity, future production profiles, outlining infill well locations and defining additional exploration potential on the block. These initiatives combine to ensure an integrated and pro-active field management strategy moving forwards. From late August to early September 2018, slickline operations were performed in the MB-2, MB-3, MB-4, and MS-1X wells to remove downhole memory gauges, perform static pressure gradient surveys, and re-install downhole memory gauges. This pressure monitoring campaign is ongoing and will help to address the remaining uncertainty with regards to the in-place (and recoverable) volumes in the Mnazi Bay field and the connectivity between the wells in the different reservoir intervals, with particular near-term focus on the lower MB interval, currently producing from the MB-1 well only. Critically, the Mnazi Bay partners are working closely together to ascertain production profiles and plateau periods that can be achieved for different recoverable volumes, flow rates, pipeline inlet pressures and compression scenarios. The results from this work suggest that at current stabilized production of 82.5-90 MMscfd, the plateau can be maintained until sometime between mid-2024 and late-2026, with limited capital expenditures ("CAPEX"). Although the GSA provides the option for volumes of up to 130 MMscfd to be delivered, the Company does not believe this will be achieved until certain commercial conditions have been satisfied. In order to increase field production rates closer to a 130 MMscfd plateau, while still maintaining the capability to provide minimum contractual volumes of 80 MMscfd to Madimba (TPDC) and 2.5 MMscfd to Mtwara (TANESCO), Wentworth believes that additional well recompletions and/or drilling and compression facilities will be required in due course. In order to sustain and/or increase the Mnazi Bay production plateau Wentworth (along with the Operator) is focused on four key value catalysts: Securing a full GSA to move to Commercial Operations Date "COD" declaration. As a result of the COD, the testing and commissioning period will end and all terms of the GSA will become effective. Maintaining the production plateau to comply with the GSA, by focusing on network modifications including upgrading well flowline chokes, together with slickline jobs to open existing perforated intervals and conducting new perforations in unperforated horizons. This is made operationally simpler by the MB-2, MB-3, MB-4 and MS-1X wells having smart well completions, with sliding sleeves. A reduction in the contractual optimum pipeline delivery point pressure from 95 bar(g) to 60 bar(g), which would allow for increased volumes per well, and sustained overall production rates and/or plateau periods from the current well stock, prior to installation of compression facilities. This is technically and operationally realizable, has the potential to extend the production plateau by c. 18 months on a standalone basis and c.42 months including slickline and chokes upgrade work; and is immediately accretive to asset value. Renewal of the PSA, which will push expiration out a further 10 years, until 2041, thereby facilitating the commercial rationale for additional CAPEX to unlock the 2C and the 3P resource base. Unlocking these commercial triggers will allow the Joint Venture to extend and increase the current production plateau of 82.5-90 MMscfd with confidence, as well as access, unlock and convert the existing material prospective resource base to 2P reserves. Discussions are ongoing between the Joint Venture and various Tanzanian stakeholders to secure fair and equable agreement on these issues. Exploration Activity Wentworth has undertaken a detailed review of the exploration potential of the greater Mnazi Bay area and as such has identified a material prospect and lead inventory. Seven of the highest potential leads were evaluated by RPS Canada as part of the reserves and resources evaluation, which ascribed P 50 full block gross prospective resources at greater than 1.5 Tcf. Wentworth is currently working with the operator to determine how to best de-risk the running room portfolio and developing a strategic plan towards converting these resources to future 2C and 2P reserves. Mozambique: Tembo Block Appraisal Licence The Tembo Block Appraisal Licence ("Tembo"), which has an area of approximately 2,500 km2 is located in north-eastern Mozambique, approximately 1,800 km north of Maputo and 100 km southwest of the Mnazi Bay field in the onshore Rovuma Basin. The block is operated by Wentworth Resources (85%) with Empresa Nacional de Hidrocarbonetos ("ENH"; 15%) as a carried partner. In 2014, the Tembo-1 exploration well was drilled to the Cretaceous where it encountered strong gas shows, logged a hydrocarbon pay interval section, and was declared a technical discovery. In June 2016, the Instituto Nacional de Petroleo ("INP") granted approval for an appraisal plan for the Tembo-1 gas discovery, with a two-year appraisal period. During the first two-year appraisal period Wentworth reprocessed c. 1,000 km of 2D seismic data and conducted pre-drill activities including well planning and design and scouting of the proposed wellsite location. In addition, from late Q4 2017 the Company reached out to the market to secure a partner to farm-in for the proposed Tembo-2 appraisal well. In June 2018, partly due to above ground security issues and an inability to secure a risk-sharing partner, a further one-year extension was granted, extending the licence until 15 June 2019 with no additional work commitments or exit penalties. Activity & Outlook In Q3 2018, Wentworth commenced a detailed re-evaluation of the Tembo discovery, creating an updated basin model which integrated in-house analysis of the Tembo-1 discovery, including re-interpretation of all the existing block and regional 2D seismic data, reservoir & rock properties, in-place and recoverable volumes, reservoir flow rates, deliverability and well-based economics. This in-house study, which was concluded after the RPS CPR evaluation was finalized, suggests that the primary "Q sand" package as mapped on the reprocessed 2D seismic likely has in-place Pmean gross volumes of c.87 Bscf with recoverable volumes of c.61 Bscf. Set out below are management estimates of Prospective Resources Assessment for the Tembo prospect. Oil and Gas - Prospective Resources Tembo Appraisal Area, Mozambique1 Gross2 Net Attributable3 Risk Factor4 Operator Proved Proved + Probable Proved + Probable + Possible Proved Proved + Probable Proved + Probable + Possible Oil & Liquids Reserves MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb MMstb - - - - - - Total for Oil and Liquids - - - - - - Gas Reserves Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Bscf Tembo Q Sand Prospect, Base of Slope Fan 10 61 151 9 52 128 42.1%4 Wentworth Total for Gas 10 61 151 9 52 128 Management internal estimates "Gross" are 100% of resources attributable to the asset "Net Attributable" are the net resources volumes attributable to Wentworth "Risk Factor" is the Geological Probability of Success and does not include any evaluation of the commerciality of the resources. The downward volumetric revisions have predominantly been driven by a decrease in the interpreted reservoir storage properties and a more restricted sand fairway system. The Company is of the view that a gas discovery of this size with sub-commercial flow rates is highly likely to be stranded given the lack of adjacent infrastructure. As part of the Company's Transition and Redomicile process, RPS Canada was required to conduct a CPR of the Tembo discovery. This evaluation which commenced in May 2018, was undertaken incorporating a legacy subsurface model, prior the above in-house evaluation. RPS Canada, has determined, based on the prior Wentworth work that the Tembo prospect has Best estimate P mean gross risked prospective resources of 262 Bscf, with a 30% chance of expected Commercial success, further noting "there is a wide range of uncertainty in the estimated volume". This CPR report is available on the Company's website as of today. The updated in-house assessment of Tembo, coupled with the lack of a risk-sharing partner and above ground concerns, all point to further appraisal well activities not being commercially supported by the Company. Wentworth continues to evaluate remaining Cretaceous and Tertiary potential in the greater onshore Rovuma Basin as part of its evaluation activities in Mozambique, where it has a significant in-house data set, established regional expertise, operational capabilities, and importantly substantive relationships with ENH and INP, in what is a rapidly developing LNG (and domestic gas) region of Mozambique. Eskil Jersing, CEO, commented: "Since my arrival in late June, we have undertaken a thorough technical review of the company's asset portfolio. I am excited by the potential of Wentworth's principal Mnazi Bay asset in Tanzania, and believe our focus is to work closely with the operator and key stakeholders in country to progress a value-led technical and operational strategy that extracts as much of the field's undoubted potential as possible in a commercially attractive manner. Our work to better understand commercially realizable opportunities available in Mozambique continues unabated. As a result of our having the corporate team in London working very closely with our Dar es Salaam team and asset partners, I believe we are now better placed to both drive the business operationally and communicate with our market, especially investors and analysts. In addition, our being in the UK will also enable us to access and execute on M&A led opportunities in order to secure accretionary value for the Company in this next phase of growth. I look forward to updating investors in due course.' -Ends- Enquiries: Wentworth Bob McBean, Executive Chairman Eskil Jersing, Chief Executive Officer Katherine Roe, Chief Financial Officer rpm@wentworthresources.com eskil.jersing@wentworthresources.com +44 7717 847623 katherine.roe@wentworthresources.com +44 7841 087 230 Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited AIM Nominated Adviser and Broker (UK) Callum Stewart Ashton Clanfield +44 (0) 20 7710 7600 Peel Hunt LLP Broker (UK) Richard Crichton Ross Allister +44 (0) 20 7418 8900 Vigo Investor Relations Adviser (UK) Patrick d'Ancona Chris McMahon Kate Rogucheva +44 (0) 20 7930 0230 About Wentworth Resources Wentworth Resources is a publicly traded (OSE: WRL, AIM: WRL), independent oil & gas company with natural gas production; exploration and appraisal opportunities, all in the Rovuma Delta Basin of coastal southern Tanzania and northern Mozambique. Inside Information The information contained within this announcement is deemed by Wentworth to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) no. 596/2014 ("MAR"). On the publication of this announcement via a Regulatory Information Service ("RIS"), this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain. Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements This press release may contain certain forward-looking information. The words "expect", "anticipate", believe", "estimate", "may", "will", "should", "intend", "forecast", "plan", and similar expressions are used to identify forward looking information. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made in light of management's experience, current conditions and expected future development in the areas in which Wentworth is currently active and other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. Wentworth undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predicted outcome will not occur, including some of which are beyond Wentworth's control. These assumptions and risks include, but are not limited to: the risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general such as operational risks in exploration, development and production, delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures, the imprecision of resource and reserve estimates, assumptions regarding the timing and costs relating to production and development as well as the availability and price of labour and equipment, volatility of and assumptions regarding commodity prices and exchange rates, marketing and transportation risks, environmental risks, competition, the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources and changes in applicable law. Additionally, there are economic, political, social and other risks inherent in carrying on business in Tanzania and Mozambique. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could vary or differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. See Wentworth's Management's Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2017, available on Wentworth's website, for further description of the risks and uncertainties associated with Wentworth's business. These assessments are made in accordance with the standard defined in the SPE/WPC Petroleum Resources Management System (2007) and the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook ("COGEH"). Cameron Snow, Head of Subsurface and Business Development, and an Exploration Geoscientist with over 12 years of experience across North America, South America, Africa, and Australia, has read and approved the technical disclosure in this regulatory announcement. Mr. Snow holds a BS in Geology from North Carolina State University, a MS in Geology from Utah State University, a PhD in Geological and Environmental Science from Stanford University, and an MBA from Imperial College of London. Mr. Snow is a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers. Glossary Bscf Billion standard cubic feet Contingent Resources Quantities of petroleum estimated, as at a given date, to be potentially recoverable from known accumulations, but the applied project(s) are not yet considered mature enough for commercial development due to one or more contingencies MMscfd Milion standard cubic feet per day MMstb Million stock tank barrels MW Mega Watt Gross Reserves Reserves volumes before deductions for royalty Net Reserves Reserves volumes after deduction of royalty NPV Net present value 2C Best estimate scenario of contingent resources 1P Proved Reserves, those quantities of petroleum, which, by analysis of geoscience and engineering data, can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be commercially recoverable, from a given date forward, from known reservoirs and under defined economic conditions, operating methods, and government regulations. 2P Proved + Probable Reserves, those additional Reserves which analysis of geoscience and engineering data indicate are less likely to be recovered than Proved Reserves but more certain to be recovered than Possible Reserves. It is equally likely that actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater than or less than the sum of the estimated Proved plus Probable Reserves 3P Proved + Probable + Possible Reserves, those additional reserves which analysis of geoscience and engineering data suggest are less likely to be recoverable than Probable Reserves. Prospective Resources Petroleum deposits that are estimated, on a given date, to be potentially recoverable from accumulations yet to be discovered Reserves Quantities of petroleum anticipated to be commercially recoverable by application of development projects to known accumulations from a given date forward under defined conditions. TCF Trillion cubic feet WI Working interest attributable to Wentworth Notice Neither the Oslo Stock Exchange nor the AIM Market of the London Stock Exchange has reviewed this press release and neither accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. This information is subject of the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. if the people of Biafra want Republic of Biafra, it will be a reality during my administration. ----Donald Trump Donald Trump I wi... VANCOUVER, B.C., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Squire Mining Ltd. (Squire or the Company) (CSE: SQR, FRA:9SQ, OTC:SQRMF): October 3, 2018 The Company is pleased to report on its prototype ASIC chip testing event held in Seoul, South Korea. With executives and board members from Squire, Future Farm, CoinGeek, Gaonchips and Samsung Electronics in attendance, Peter Kim, President of Squires subsidiary AraCore Technology Corp. (Aracore), and his team of front-end microchip engineers and programmers, unveiled and tested a working prototype mining system comprised of a newly engineered FPGA (field programmable gate array) ASIC microchip that will be converted into AraCores first ASIC chip utilizing 10 nanometer technology for mining Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin and other associated cryptocurrencies. The test results confirm Aracores original design specifications indicating that the ASIC chip, once mass manufactured by Samsung Electronics, will be capable of delivering a projected hash rate of 18 to 22 terahash per second (TH/s) with an energy consumption of between 700 and 800 watts. Taras Kulyk, Chief Executive Officer of CoinGeek Mining and Hardware, said The CoinGeek team is very pleased with the progress of our strategic partners; Squire Mining and Aracore. With this next generation technology, CoinGeek will continue to pull the blockchain industry out of the proverbial basement and into the boardroom. Stefan Matthews, Chairman of nChain, one of the industry leaders in blockchain research and development, and a director of Squire Mining added, The early results indicate that this ASIC microchip has the potential to be the next generation leader in providing hash power for enterprise mining of Bitcoin Cash and other associated crypto currencies. It has also demonstrated the potential to rapidly process consensus protocols across the blockchain faster whilst utilizing less energy than anything currently in this sector. Hash rate speed and microchip efficiency are the two most important measuring criteria in the crypto-mining industry to enable end-users to maximize profitability and ROI in their day to day mining operations. Simon Moore, Executive Chairman and CEO of Squire Mining, stated, Aracores time and investment to date have been validated by the impressive results of this new microchip. Once completed, we believe the speed and efficiency of our ASIC microchip combined with our respective mining systems powered by this Samsung manufactured microchip together have the potential to substantially increase the profitability of enterprise mining facilities around the globe. We look forward to releasing our mining system to the market in the first half of next year through our exclusive distribution partners CoinGeek, and competing for a significant piece of this multi-billion-dollar enterprise mining market. About AraCore Technology Corp. Aracore is a joint venture company established by Squire and Peter Kim to design and develop next generation ASIC chips for mining Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin and other associated cryptocurrencies. Squire owns a 75% interest in Aracore and Peter Kim owns the remaining 25% interest. About Squire Mining Ltd. Squire is a Canadian based company engaged, through its subsidiaries, in the business of developing data mining infrastructure and system technology to support global blockchain applications in the mining space including applicable specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chips and next generation mining rigs to mine Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin and other associated cryptocurrencies. The Canadian Securities Exchange accepts no responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. For further information contact: Simon Moore, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Telephone: (604) 929 - 0900 OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cytovance Biologics, Inc. signed a non-exclusive license with Horizon Discovery for the use of their HD-BIOP3 Suspension adapted GS null CHO K1 cells. The Horizon CHO GS -/- cell line is available immediately for cell line development services performed out of their Oklahoma City based facilities. The new cell line is part of a toolbox approach to CHO Cell Line Development, making the Cytovance offering of multiple cell lines for each molecule unique in the CDMO industry. Were excited to add the Horizon CHO GS -/- cell line to our expanding CHO toolbox. The ability to interrogate multiple platform technologies in parallel enables Cytovances clients to rapidly find the best protein expression option for their program. Combined with a fully integrated development path, the CHO toolbox approach differentiates Cytovance among CDMOs, states Jesse McCool, PhD, SVP of Research and Development Services at Cytovance Biologics. We constantly strive to find and apply the best technologies." The Horizon platform is fully integrable with Cytovances Cell Line Development technologies and aggressive timelines. The selection of transfected cells and cell line stability are enhanced by the use of a host deficient in Glutamine Synthetase and a vector expressing the GS gene, said John Mott, Ph.D., Sr. Advisor in Cell Line Development. The resultant cell lines are capable of robust growth in Animal Component Free medium and express therapeutic proteins at competitive levels. About Horizon Discovery Group plc www.horizondiscovery.com Horizon Discovery Group plc (LSE: HZD) ("Horizon") headquartered in Cambridge UK, is a world leader in gene editing and gene modulation technologies. Horizon designs and engineers cells using its translational genomics platform, a highly precise and flexible suite of DNA editing tools (rAAV, ZFN, CRISPR and Transposon) and, following the acquisition of Dharmacon, Inc., its functional genomics platform comprising gene knockdown (RNAi) and gene expression (cDNA, ORF) tools, for research and clinical applications that advance human health. Horizons platforms and capabilities enable researchers to alter almost any gene or modulate its function in human or mammalian cell lines. About Cytovance Biologics Cytovance Biologics is a contract development manufacturing company specializing in the cGMP production of therapeutic proteins and antibodies from mammalian cell culture, microbial fermentation, transgenic processes, and small scale "flex suite" programs. In addition, Cytovance offers process development services, cell line development, purification development, stability testing, and regulatory support services, all from its Oklahoma City state-of-the-art facilities. Media Contact Cheryl Tuck ctuck@cytovance.com Washington, DC, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In honor of Eczema Awareness Month, today the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) announces its Atopic Dermatitis in America study which provides one of the most reliable estimates to-date of the prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) in individuals 18 and older. Although often thought of as a disease of childhood, the study finds that AD occurs in 7.3% of US adults. Of those affected with the disease, about 40% have moderate or severe AD. Atopic dermatitisthe most common form of eczemaleads to significant emotional burden in addition to pain, physical discomfort and sleep disturbance for 16.5 million adults in the U.S. It is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease which results in widespread rashes and patches of itchy skin. Scratching may cause thickened, cracked, dry, scaly, raw, sensitive or swollen skin. One of the most alarming things we found is that, despite the common occurrence of atopic dermatitis, 6.6 million adults are dealing with moderate to severe symptoms, says Kenneth Mendez, president and CEO of AAFA. We need to escalate our efforts to make sure that people are informed and have access to the right medication. AAFAs comprehensive study has led to a greater understanding of the prevalence of the disease in adults and its harmful impacts on those affected by it. The study has generated 5 manuscripts so far, which are available at www.ADinAmerica.org. The Atopic Dermatitis in America study indicates the need for public health initiatives to improve eczema recognition and treatment, states Dr. Zelma Chiesa Fuxench, one of the study authors. Atopic dermatitis is often considered a childhood condition. More recent research, including this study, confirms that many adults are suffering from this disease. There is no cure for AD, and many people have troubling controlling it. While there are many medical and non-medical treatments used to manage AD, they are not all effective. The treatments can be inconvenient and may cause toxic side effects. As a result, many with AD fail to seek and comply with medical treatment. We hope the AD in America campaign will increase public awareness about the prevalence of this disease in our country and lead to better treatments and a cure, said Julie Block, President and CEO of the National Eczema Association (NEA), a partner on the study. After a decade of no 2 new treatments, finally, the true impact on patients quality of life is receiving the light and attention it deserves. About the Study Beginning in 2016, AAFA led a three-part national study about AD in the U.S. in partnership with NEA and with support from Sanofi Genzyme and Regeneron. The study included three survey populations: The general public (Public Survey) Adults with AD (Patient Survey) Health care professionals who care for patients with AD (Physician Survey) The purpose of the study, entitled Atopic Dermatitis in America, was to: Establish the prevalence of AD in the U.S. adult population Determine the distribution of adult AD disease severity Understand the burden of disease for adults with AD About AAFA Celebrating 65 years of service, AAFA is the oldest and largest non-profit patient organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with asthma, allergies and related conditions through research, education, advocacy and support. AAFA provides practical information and community-based services through its digital communities and network of chapters and support groups. Through its Kids With Food Allergies division, AAFA offers the most extensive online support community for families of children with food allergies. AAFA also helps consumers identify household products that are proven to improve indoor environments for people with asthma and allergies through the asthma & allergy friendly Certification Program. For more information, visit www.aafa.org. Attachment Bushmills Rum Cask Reserve launched in GTR Proximo has announced the latest edition of the Bushmills The Steamship Collection, with the release of Rum Cask Reserve. The collection are a range of limited edition single malts exclusive to global travel retail. Now with four expressions, the new variant in follows the release of the Sherry Cask Reserve in 2015, Port Cask Reserve in 2016 and the Bourbon #3 Char Cask Reserve in 2017. The range is said to be inspired by the voyages of the steamship SS Bushmills in 1890 to bring Bushmills Irish Whiskey to new corners of the world. When she returned to The Old Bushmills Distillery, she brought a variety of seasoned casks from some of the worlds wine and spirits producers, as well as new inspiration, knowledge and relationships. The Rum Cask Reserve was inspired by the SS Bushmillss homeward bound journey that included a stop in St. Vincent in the Caribbean where she stocked her hold with rum to bring back to The Old Bushmills Distillery. Helen Mulholland, master blender of Bushmills Irish Whiskey says: We are always innovating and, like the crew aboard the SS Bushmills, we love exploring new flavours that complement the smooth taste of our Bushmills Irish Whiskey. We are really excited to launch this Rum Cask Reserve. For me, nothing brings out beautiful tropical flavours in our whiskey like maturation in a rum cask, so a Caribbean-centric edition for The Steamship Collection was a natural next step for us. To create this rare expression, we matured our fine Single Malt in first fill Caribbean rum casks to create a rich and perfectly balanced whiskey with notes of tropical fruit, subtle spice and vanilla pod with a smooth and creamy toffee finish. David Phelan, Global Travel Retail director of Proximo, adds: We are delighted to introduce the Rum Cask Reserve to The Steamship Collection. The popularity of Irish whiskey, especially premium malts, continues to soar and our focus for the global travel retail space is to give travellers something they can't find in their domestic markets. As the worlds largest malt Irish whiskey brand, we are committed to innovating and introducing new, rare, premium expressions while always maintaining the taste and quality we're famous for. It is an exciting time for Irish whiskey both in the global travel retail space and around the world. The RRP for the Rum Cask Reserve is 99 per 70cl bottle and has an ABV of 40%. The Steamship Collection can be found at duty free outlets across the globe including London (Heathrow), Hong Kong, Frankfurt, Dublin and Chicago. 1 October 2018 - Sam Coyne The Drinks Report, editor Guest Commentary By Dr. Tara Kiran You get home after a long day at work and the cough thats been bugging you just doesnt seem to be letting up. Your muscles ache, you have chills and you hear a slight wheeze when you breathe out. Do you head to the local emergency department? A walk-in clinic? Or does your family doctor have an after-hours service? As a family doctor, Id like to think youd call your doctors office or go to their after-hours clinic. But chances are, you head to the emergency department. Canadians use the emergency department far more than people in other high-income countries. In the last two years, 40 percent of Canadians were seen in the emergency department compared to 24 percent in the United Kingdom, 20 percent in the Netherlands and just 11 percent in Germany. Canadian governments have wondered whether one way of curbing emergency department use is to improve access to family doctors after hours. About 15 years ago, Ontario introduced practice models that paid physicians differently, encouraged them to work in groups and take responsibility for a roster of patients. Physicians in these new models were also required to provide a certain number of evening or weekend clinics. The hope was to divert some emergency department visits to family practices. Unfortunately, it didnt quite work as planned. Our recent study found that emergency department use didnt decrease for patients who joined the new practice models. Between 2003 and 2014, there was actually an increase in the rate of emergency department visits in Ontario, particularly during the day. At the same time, the overall rate of visits to family doctors went down but family doctors seemed to be providing more after-hours care. Why didnt asking family doctors to provide after-hours care to reduce emergency department visits? There are a few potential explanations: First, it may be that an increase in family doctor availability after hours was offset by a decrease in availability during the day. Ontario has a fixed supply of family doctors, many already juggling a demanding workload. Perhaps one way of coping with new requirements was to decrease daytime hours. Second, providing more services may just increase peoples demand for services. When the U.K. introduced urgent care clinics, people started going there but they also kept going to the emergency department at the same rate they did before. Or maybe you do see your family doctor and theyre worried about pneumonia so they send you to the emergency department because thats the only way they can get an X-ray after hours. Many of our emergency departments are overcrowded partly because of a shortage of hospital beds but also because of the sheer numbers of people seeking care. Can better access to primary care help us reduce the demand on emergency departments? Our findings suggest its complicated. Just asking family practices to provide more care on the evenings and weekends is likely not enough. Family practices need to have the right resources to provide care after hours, including access to labs and X-rays. Ideally, after-hours coverage is shared by a large group of doctors and other team members who have access to shared electronic patient records. We also need to improve timely access to primary care during the day. Few Canadians are able to get a timely appointment with their family doctor or nurse practitioner when sick. In a recent survey, 25 percent said they went to the emergency department because their family doctor wasnt available. We can learn from reforms in other countries. For the last 15 years, family doctors in the Netherlands have been organized in large co-operatives, each serving 100,000 to 500,000 patients and featuring a single regional telephone number. In the evenings and on weekends, trained nurses triage calls and, if needed, physicians assess patients on the phone, in the clinic or at home. Perhaps its not surprising that the Netherlands has one of the lowest emergency department visit rates. More after-hours care may not necessarily reduce emergency department visits but its still an important service for patients. We need to better understand patient values and rethink how weve designed our system for those with acute health complaints in the evenings or on weekends. Lets learn from other countries and evaluate related reforms in Canada. Tara Kiran is a family physician at the St. Michaels Hospital Academic Family Health Team, adjunct scientist at ICES, and the Fidani Chair in Innovation and Improvement at the University of Toronto. She is a contributor with EvidenceNetwork.ca, which is based at the University of Winnipeg. Part of Blue Shield of California Foundations $3.5 million grantmaking to assess the value of prevention in community health. LOS ANGELES, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Blue Shield of California Foundation announced a grant of $250,000 to SmartAirLA to improve community health by empowering asthmatic children and their communities to take control of asthma in Los Angeles County through technology. In Los Angeles County, asthma is the leading cause of hospitalizations among underserved children. Over one third of low-income children with asthma in the county went to the emergency room or urgent care for asthma treatment in the last year. Through Blue Shield of California Foundations grant and support from Adherium (ASX:ADR), SmartAirLA will provide underserved children with asthma with Bluetooth-sensor enabled inhalers that will remind them to take their medication and help doctors monitor medication regimen. Clinical studies report that smart inhaler usage can reduce hospital admissions related to poor asthma control by 81%, which would create significant cost savings for the health system. The smart inhalers will also pinpoint asthmatic hotspots for air pollution mitigation. This project puts the internet-of-things in the hands of the people who need it the most, underserved children who are literally, struggling for breath, said Peter Long, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Foundation, "And it will help their communities advocate for a healthier environment with a powerful new dataset." SmartAirLA holds great promise for improving the health outcomes among children in Los Angeles County with asthma, and for identifying potentially toxic community environments in need of remediation, said Dr. Paul Simon, Chief Science Officer of Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. The health and environmental data collected by SmartAirLA will benefit the City of Los Angeles clean air and sustainability efforts and help us to better support healthy data-driven outcomes for all Angelenos, said Jeanne Holm, Senior Technology Advisor to the Mayor of Los Angeles. This grant is part of the Foundations work to identify and solve the root causes of poor health through community-focused, systems change. In this round of funding, the Foundation awarded $3.5 million to sixteen new projects that explore the value of prevention. To learn more, visit https://blueshieldcafoundation.org/blog/value-prevention and www.smartairla.org About Blue Shield of California Foundation Blue Shield of California Foundation is one of the states largest and most trusted philanthropic organizations. Our mission is to build lasting and equitable solutions that make California the healthiest state, with the lowest rate of domestic violence. To learn more, visit www.blueshieldcafoundation.org . About SmartAirLA SmartAirLA advances the health and environmental equity for underserved communities in Los Angeles County by transforming how we treat childhood asthma through technology and data. We are a public-private partnership with the Asthma Coalition of Los Angeles County, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, City of Los Angeles, USC Department of Preventive Medicine, UCLA Medical Imaging Informatics Group, Adherium Company, FUSE Corps, Los Angeles Coalition for Economy and Jobs, and Community Partners. To learn more, visit www.smartairla.org Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Jim Clough (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 16:32 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775d52c1 3 Opinion South-China-Sea,ASEAN,Indonesia,ASEAN-China,China,maritime-security Free Over the last several years the South China Sea has exploded with activity, from island dredging to military build-up masquerading as civilian development. The region is increasingly heating up, leading experts to classify the area as a potential flashpoint in the years to come. While some countries such as Vietnam have engaged in extra-legal construction on the many shoals and atolls in the region outside their Exclusive Economic Zone, the largest culprit is without a doubt China. Just google Chinas nine-dash line. This poses a significant problem for not only Southeast Asia but for the greater Indo-Pacific as over 40 percent of global trade and one-third of crude oil passes through this choke-point. Chinas extraordinary claim to the area not only constitutes a form of neo-colonialism but a deliberate attempt to build military positions, what I like to call floating fortresses, in international waters to dictate terms and conditions to its smaller neighbors such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines, Brunei, and yes even Indonesia. Indonesia sits in a unique if somewhat precarious position. Being the largest ASEAN member with a consistently growing economy but a history of non-alignment and a sorely underdeveloped navy and air force, it must take steps to ensure its economic security. While investing further in its naval and air branches is a step in the right direction, Indonesia must take a greater role in guiding ASEAN members toward fostering greater cooperation, particularly regarding security. Indonesia, like other ASEAN members stand little chance of standing up to the Middle Kingdom. But together they can form a powerful bulwark against an increasingly militaristic and aggressive China. Indonesia should not stop there. Australia, India, Japan and United States have formed the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (the Quad) in recent years as a counterweight to Chinese intransigence. If a collection of four formidable blue water navies have felt the need to partner up to tackle collective goals, Indonesia and ASEAN would be wise to do the same. Indonesia should deepen economic ties and use savvy diplomacy to not only increase cooperation among ASEAN states but to forge closer ties with members of the Quad, call it the Quad + 1 if you will. Being the largest ASEAN member, it seems only natural that Indonesia, with extensive consultation from other ASEAN states, should push for such an alignment. I believe Indonesia, in the words of former United States president Theodore Roosevelt, will need to speak softly and carry a big stick. While fears of Chinese reprisals are justified, having so many nations dedicated to the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea to safeguard their own and each others economic and trading interests in the region, China would be hard-pressed to exert pressure on so many states for fear of coordinated retaliation. ASEAN itself is not fully united and historically has been weak in reigning in their dissenting members. For instance Cambodia, to the detriment of other members, has aligned itself more closely to China in recent years. China has taken advantage of this, preferring bilateral avenues with involved parties to leverage its larger size and military might to bully other countries into submission. Whereas, with a more unified ASEAN response, individual members would stop receiving such a raw deal. ASEAN needs to wake up to the alarm bells. One need only look at the Philippiness unilateral attempt to take China to The Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague as a means of seeking redress. The court ultimately ruled in the Philippines favor, but a victory on paper means nothing while China continues to increase its military build-up in the region. Alone, Indonesia and the other nations involved stand little chance of exacting a positive outcome for themselves, but together, a freedom coalition can show China that its neighbors will not simply be pushed around. *** The writer graduated from international studies from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University and is a proponent of multilateralism and international cooperation in tackling global challenges. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Patrick Galey (Agence France-Presse) Paris, France Wed, October 3, 2018 12:09 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775c711e 2 Science & Tech Donna-Strickland,Nobel,Nobel-Prize,physics Free When Canadian scientist Donna Strickland got the early morning call informing her she just won the Nobel Physics Prize, she could barely hide her amazement. Not just that she had clinched one of science's most prestigious honours -- her pioneering work on laser pulses had earned her renown among the physics community -- but also that she was one of only three women to win the award in its more than 100-year history. "Is that all, really?!" she asked the audience assembled in the ornate, wood-panelled hall at the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in Stockholm on Tuesday morning. "Well, OK. I thought there might have been more but I couldn't think." In becoming the first women Nobel physics laureate in 55 years, Strickland won acclaim from her peers, who were keen to point out the boundary-pushing work done by female scientists across the world. "There are women doing excellent research in all kinds of fields," Roisin Owens, biochemical engineer at University of Cambridge, told AFP. She said that while historically it was true that far fewer women than men worked in research, the scientific community needed to wake up the field's changing demographics. "Sometimes people are looking in their own echo chamber, but the excuse of 'oh, we couldn't find any women (to reward)' doesn't wash anymore." Of the 112 physics prizes the Nobel committee has awarded since 1901, the only women winners before Strickland were Marie Curie in 1903 and Maria Goeppert Mayer in 1963. 'Change is happening' Jessica Wade, a researcher at Department of Physics and Centre for Plastic Electronics at Imperial College London, was so fed up with women in the field being overlooked that she spent the last year adding 270 Wikipedia entries on women scientists. She admits the scientific community has made some progress on the gender gap -- "schemes to support women in their return from maternity leave, shared parental leave, policies to prevent sexual harassment and bullying" -- but the playing field is still far from even. "There is also a growing, and concerning, area of society, who contemporary politicians and social media are allowing to propagate old-fashioned and sexist views," she said. Read also: Nobel-winning therapy weaponizes immune system against cancer Europe's particle physics lab CERN suspended a scientist this week after he suggested that physics was "built by men" and accused women of demanding specialist jobs without suitable qualifications. Alessandro Strumia of Pisa University shocked the audience at the Geneva lab during a workshop on high energy theory and gender. For Patricia Rankin, professor of Physics at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Strumia's suspension was an example that "change is happening" in efforts to battle outright sexism in science. But, she added: "I think there is a large list of barriers that women have to overcome including unconscious bias, different expectations and demands on their time." Physics 'built by men'? The Swedish academy said Tuesday it was encouraging more people to nominate women for their science awards, "because we don't want to miss anyone." According to Jennifer Curtis, associate professor of physics at the Georgia Institute of Technology, "awards beget awards... one important way to promote female physicists is to make sure to nominate them." She said it was "fantastic" that Strickland had finally received recognition. Read also: Amputated Nobel season opens without Literature Prize 'Celebrate women scientists' Wade pointed to the work of Dawn Shaughnessy, the American radiochemist who discovered five elements in the periodic table, who has yet to be formally honoured with a Nobel. In addition, according to Andrea Welsh, a PhD student in physics at Georgia Tech, women scientists were far less likely to seek nominations than male peers. "Nominating (yourself) for an award that gives you credit for work you have already done is very different than nominating yourself to do more work, especially in a field where your work is typically undervalued, where you are spoken over frequently, where there is no one else saying that you deserve something more," she told AFP. For Owens, the fact that the Nobels are awarded for individual rather than team efforts could be another reason why there are so few women winners. "My sense is that women often work towards the collective good and often may sacrifice their individual career for advancing the community," she said. Last month, Jocelyn Bell Burnell, one of the world's leading astrophysicists who helped discovered pulsars, said she was donating her $3 million winnings from a prestigious science prize to help underrepresented groups get into physics. "There are so many fantastic women scientists and engineers and we need to spend more time celebrating them," said Wade. "Support the professional development of young women, give them opportunities to talk and network, mentor them and nominate them for prizes, Nobel or otherwise." Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Jessicha Valentina (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 10:03 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775b9ed3 1 Entertainment Festival-Film-Indonesia,FFI,awards,ceremony,#awards,filmmaker,#filmmaking,filmmaking Free The annual Indonesian Film Festival (FFI) Awards ceremony is set to return in December. However, unlike previous years, the festival committee will serve three-year terms, from this year until 2020. The Education and Culture Ministrys culture director general, Hilmar Farid, said during the FFIs launch in Central Jakarta on Monday, that, in the past, the FFI committee and its system went through changes every year. However, the new term allows it to be developed as an institution. Meanwhile, FFI committee head Lukman Sardi said it was not limited to the award ceremony, which is known as Piala Citra (Citra Award). Prior to and after the ceremony, the committee will host other events, such as master classes, workshops and film screenings. The activities are aimed to improve the quality of local films. Since the FFI realized the importance of collaboration, some of the programs would also be synergized with the ministrys activities. Read also: FFI nominations for Posesif stir controversy Lukman said the committee also planned to involve film critics. The actor added that it would educate people about film critics, allowing filmmakers to get constructive feedbacks. In addition to the award ceremony, the FFI is also set to host an appreciation night on Nov. 6. The event is aimed to give appreciation for those who have worked to improve the quality of Indonesian films. With regards to Piala Citra, it is said to feature 23 categories. This year, the committee will pick the films. To be nominated, submitted films must have been released in a cinema at any time between Oct. 1 last year and Sept 30 this year. Lukman said they would only pick films with censorship certificates. If the films have been screened [in a cinema], they automatically have a censorship certificate. (wng) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Anand Krishnamoorthy (Bloomberg) Wed, October 3, 2018 22:03 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775ea419 2 Science & Tech hyperloop,passenger-capsule,richard-branson,Elon-Musk,technology,Transportation Free Hyperloop Transportation Technologies Inc. unveiled its first full-scale passenger capsule, offering the world a peek at the future of travel. The capsule, 105 feet (32 meters) long and weighing 5 tons, was shown in Spain and will be moved to Toulouse, France, for additional assembly before its used on one of the first commercial tracks, the California-based startup, known as HyperloopTT, said in a statement. Named the Quintero One, the product is made almost entirely out of composite material. Hyperloop is a technology that gained popularity after billionaire Elon Musk touted it in 2013, prompting several companies to join the race to build a high-speed transportation system. It envisages moving passengers in capsules at speeds of more than 750 miles (1,200 kilometers) per hour through low-pressure tubes, in order to reduce friction. The technology will be able to propel trains faster than existing methods such as the Maglev, which uses a levitation technology to lift the train cars above a track to eliminate surface drag. The Los Angeles area is emerging as a hyperloop center, home to competitors Arrivo and Virgin Hyperloop One. Musks Boring Co. also has its base there. Read also: Elon Musk presents underground LA tunnel project Musk, who also runs Tesla Inc. and Space Exploration Technologies Corp., first unveiled his idea for a hyperloop a tube-based system to move people from Los Angeles to San Francisco in half an hour in a 57-page white paper in 2013 because he was disappointed with Californias plans for a high-speed rail system. In July, HyperloopTT set up a joint venture to build a test system in a mountainous southwest province in China. Billionaire Richard Bransons Virgin Hyperloop One held discussions in India, aiming to offer passengers in the futuristic technology fares that are cheaper than local airlines. In February, Branson signed a preliminary agreement in Mumbai for a broad hyperloop framework and mooted a Mumbai-Pune system that would shrink travel time to 25 minutes and save about three hours. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Jessicha Valentina (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 10:30 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775ba642 1 Art & Culture batik,#batik,Iwan-Tirta-Private-Collection,Mattel,#Barbie,Barbie,Barbie-Batik-Kirana,doll,toy,#toys Free Toy manufacturing company Mattel Indonesia launched on Tuesday a new Barbie collection of batik-clad dolls called Barbie Batik Kirana, just in time for National Batik Day. The collection was produced in collaboration with well-known batik brand Iwan Tirta Private Collection. Barbie Batik Kirana was designed and made in Indonesia for Indonesians, Mattel Southeast Asia country manager Ivan Franco said during the collections launch at La Moda restaurant in Plaza Indonesia, Central Jakarta. Meanwhile, Mattel Indonesia president director Roy Tandean explained that Barbie Batik Kirana was the companys first collaboration with an Indonesian designer. Last year, Mattel Indonesia produced a Barbie doll dressed in batik exclusively for the company's 25th anniversary, however, the newly launched Barbie Batik Kirana is the first batik-wearing doll created for sale. Roy also said that in the past 25 years, Mattel Indonesia had produced around 50 percent of the worlds Barbie dolls, adding that it was a dream to finally produce them dressed in iconic batik outfits. Read also: Mattel Indonesia to introduce batik-wearing Barbie The collaboration aimed to support Indonesian children to explore and achieve their dreams to be the countrys next batik designers. Iwan Tirta Private Collection CEO Widharmika Agung said that the late Iwan Tirta, the brands founder, saw himself as a bridge to connect culture and the young generation. The collaboration is in-line with Iwans vision and Barbie is seen as a medium to attract todays youth to love Indonesian culture, particularly batik, he added. Barbie Batik Kirana currently comes in two outfits, namely Kawung Manis and Sawunggaling Latar Kopi Pecah. The former illustrates the hope to remain wise and humble and to remember our ancestors. Meanwhile, Sawunggaling Latar Kopi Pecah symbolizes the hope for our leaders to be fair, balance, strong and kind. Priced at Rp 299,900 (US$19.86), the dolls are available at retail stores as well as Iwan Tirta Private Collection boutiques. (kes) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Thomas Watkins (Agence France-Presse) Washington, United States Wed, October 3, 2018 15:03 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775cfbf3 2 World #USA,#China,USA,China,military,tension Free The bitter trade dispute between China and the US is increasingly spilling into the military domain, with a risky incident in the South China Sea highlighting the dangers of souring relations. In what the US Navy has called an "unsafe and unprofessional" encounter, a Chinese warship sailed within just 45 yards (41 meters) of a US destroyer Sunday as it passed by Chinese-claimed features in the South China Sea, forcing the American vessel to take evasive action. The close call capped days of tit-for-tat military moves that came as President Donald Trump ramped up his trade war with China. "The close encounter between the Chinese destroyer and the USS Decatur was the closest one yet," Timothy Heath, senior international defense research analyst at the RAND Corporation, told AFP. It "may reflect in part the growing US-China tensions. But it also appears to reflect a growing willingness by Beijing to test the Americans in the South China Sea," he added. Beijing reacted furiously after the incident, saying America's "freedom of navigation" operation threatened China's sovereignty and security, and damaged military relations between the two powers. The encounter followed a string of other military incidents. Last week, plans for a Beijing meeting between US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and his Chinese counterpart General Wei Fenghe fell through after China declined to make Wei available. Days earlier, China nixed a planned port visit of a US warship to Hong Kong, and canceled a meeting between the head of the Chinese navy and his American counterpart. That all came around the time US B-52 bombers took part in a combined operation with Japan over the East China Sea, and flew through international airspace over the South China Sea. The Chinese defense ministry denounced the flyovers as "provocative" actions. Mattis this week acknowledged "tension points" between the US and China, but told reporters he did not "see it getting worse." - Code of conduct - The US and Chinese militaries in 2014 agreed on a code of conduct for unplanned encounters at sea, aimed at helping the two navies avoid mishaps. It was unclear whether Sunday's manoeuver came at Beijing's request -- or was initiated by the Chinese ship's captain --- but political motivations were likely a factor in forcing a close call. "With tensions elevated, China seems motivated to risk a possible collision as a means of intimidation. There is a real risk of miscalculation," Heath said. Trump's trade war has infuriated Beijing, as did his authorization of a $1.3 billion arms sale to Taiwan, which China considers a rebel province. Washington last week enacted new tariffs against China covering another $200 billion of its imports. And Washington has placed financial sanctions on China for its recent purchase of Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets and S-400 surface-to-air missile systems. - Earlier encounters - US-China military relations have been strained before. Military exchanges between the countries, including port calls, were temporarily suspended following a mid-air collision between a US EP-3 spy plane and Chinese fighter in 2001 off the south China coast that sparked a major diplomatic row. The Chinese fighter pilot was killed in the collision and the EP-3 was forced to make an emergency landing in China's Hainan Island, with the crew detained for 11 days before being released. Current military tensions are likely to persist, said Bonnie Glaser, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, as they suit Trump's political objectives. The president last week slapped $200 billion in tariffs on Chinese goods and has accused Beijing of interfering in the upcoming US election. "This looks like a strategy from the president," Glaser told AFP. "He just wants to double down on putting as much pressure on China as possible." Noting that such actions violated established rules, Glaser added the encounter in the South China Sea represented a "different level of interfering" in a US freedom of navigation operation. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Indonesia Wed, October 3 2018 Surabaya Mayor Tri Rismaharini has been awarded by a United Nations agency for her people-centered and inclusive policies in the East Java city, the Foreign Ministry said. The UN Human Settlements Program, or UN-Habitat, bestowed its Scroll of Honor on Risma during a ceremony to commemorate World Habitat Day at the UN headquarters in Nairobi on Monday. Out of the 50 candidates shortlisted, Risma was deemed most deserving of the award, because UN-Habitat considered her city policies to be people-centered and all-inclusive. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Gisela Swaragita (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3 2018 It is hard to be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) in Indonesia. Persistent discrimination and stigma often sees such people cast away from the community or even their own family. It is also challenging for people caring about the community to raise funds to help and empower them, but that may be about to change. Galeri Sri Kendes, an online boutique selling collections of batik and tenun (a traditional woven fabric from Indonesia) under the brand Sri Kendes in an effort to raise money to help the LGBT community. Initiated by LGBT rights group Suara Kita, the brand offers various modernity-meets-tradition designs. Having founded their group in 2015, Suara Kita members sell batik, tenun as well as ready-to-wear clothes to raise funds for the marginalized community, while at the same time preserving local traditions. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 18:38 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775e6a81 1 National Anak-Krakatau,eruption Free Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait, South Lampung, Lampung, has erupted 156 times over the past two days, according to the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). The volcano, the name of which translates into English as Child of Krakatau, previously erupted in September, when the authorities raised its status to waspada (caution), the second of the four-level national volcano alert system. That status has been maintained until the time of writing. Residents have also been warned to steer at least 2 kilometers clear of the volcano. An official at the BMKGs Mount Anak Krakatau monitoring post, Deny Mardiano, reported sounds of thunder and little tremors during the eruption. The waves, however, happened to be calm [following the tremors and eruption], the agency said, as reported by Antara. (vny/swd) ORLEANS, Ontario, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tetra Bio-Pharma Inc., a leader in cannabinoid-based drug discovery and development (TSX VENTURE: TBP) (OTCQB: TBPMF), in partnership with Fords Family Pharmacy and Wellness Center, have developed and implemented a pharmaceutical quality system for Canadas first botanical-based prescription drug PPP001. The Good Manufacturing Practices, Regulatory Operations and Regions Branch, Health Canada completed the inspection of Fords manufacturing facility. A Drug Establishment License (DEL) was granted after having inspected and assessed the facility as being in compliance with the requirements of Divisions 2 to 4 of the Food and Drug Regulations thereby allowing Fords to conduct the fabrication, packaging and labeling of PPP001. Dr. Guy Chamberland, M.Sc., Ph.D., Interim CEO and CSO of Tetra Bio-Pharma stated, This is a significant accomplishment for Tetra and Fords. The manufacturing of a botanical drug is a complex operation and we have demonstrated to Health Canada that we are able to manufacture PPP001 in compliance with the requirements for a prescription drug. The DEL was required not just to manufacture the commercial lots but simply to enable Tetra to apply for approval and obtain the Drug Identification Number (DIN). Tetra is now in an excellent position to focus its activities on scale-up to ensure that we can supply the market demand for a first cannabis botanical drug. The DEL, a recognition of the pharmaceutical GMP quality process by Health Canada, was a critical milestone for Tetra to achieve thereby allowing the corporation to accelerate its plans to register cannabis drugs around the world including Europe and the USA. Dr. Peter Ford, CEO of Fords Family Pharmacy and Wellness Centre stated, This has been a true team effort between Tetra and Fords and will potentially represent the very first smokable dosage form in Canada and beyond. We are both very much committed to the DIN application. Ofer Yifrach-Stav, Tetra Bio-Pharma Vice President, Pharmaceutical Compliance and Quality, said, Tetra is proud to present a significant milestone in the development of PPP001, a prescription drug that contains a botanical ingredient, manufactured under the stringent requirements and regulations of Health Canada. The GMP inspection addressed a wide range of production activities, and the results demonstrate our consistent adherence to establish procedures at every step of the production process, as well as our ability to provide a high-quality, clean, safe and reliable product. We are excited to take the next steps in the development of cannabis botanical drugs with the potential of making them widely available to the public. About Tetra Bio-Pharma Inc. Tetra Bio-Pharma (TSX-V: TBP) (OTCQB: TBPMF) is a biopharmaceutical leader in cannabinoid-based drug discovery and development with a Health Canada approved, and FDA reviewed, clinical program aimed at bringing novel prescription drugs and treatments to patients and their healthcare providers. The Company has several subsidiaries engaged in the development of an advanced and growing pipeline of Bio Pharmaceuticals, Natural Health and Veterinary Products containing cannabis and other medicinal plant-based elements. With patients at the core of what we do, Tetra Bio-Pharma is focused on providing rigorous scientific validation and safety data required for inclusion into the existing bio pharma industry by regulators, physicians and insurance companies. For more information visit: www.tetrabiopharma.com About Ford's Family Pharmacy and Wellness Centre Since 1997, Fords Family Pharmacy & Wellness Centre has helped clients improve and prolong their health, wellness and vitality by providing personalized compounding and wellness solutions. Our team, which currently consists of four pharmacists: Peter Ford, Bryan Sinclair, Candy Aguinaga, and Taylor White, 14 pharmacy technicians/assistants and two registered nurses, is attentive, compassionate, courteous and responsive. We pride ourselves on providing innovative solutions to complex medical problems, and work with Canadian healthcare providers (including physicians, veterinarians and dentists) to create well-rounded, comprehensive natural and compounding treatment plans. Our consultative approach, state-of-the-art technology and unique Functional Medicine position means we will work with you one-on-one to understand the root cause of your pain or other health issues and apply all our resources to developing the treatment that is right for you. For more information visit: www.fordrx.com Source: Tetra Bio-Pharma Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking statements Some statements in this release may contain forward-looking information. All statements, other than of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements regarding potential acquisitions and financings) are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of the words "may", "will", "should", "continue", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "believe", "intend", "plan" or "project" or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict, that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, without limitation, the inability of the Company to obtain sufficient financing to execute the Company's business plan; competition; regulation and anticipated and unanticipated costs and delays, the success of the Company's research and development strategies, including the success of PPP001, the applicability of the discoveries made therein, the successful and timely completion and uncertainties related to the regulatory process including the applications for Orphan Drug Designation, the timing of clinical trials, the timing and outcomes of regulatory or intellectual property decisions and other risks disclosed in the Company's public disclosure record on file with the relevant securities regulatory authorities. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results or events not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. While no definitive documentation has yet been signed by the parties and there is no certainty that such documentation will be signed. The forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities legislation. For further information, please contact Tetra Bio-Pharma Inc. Robert Bechard Executive Vice-President Corporate Development and Licensing 514-817-2514 Investors@tetrabiopharma.com Media Contact Energi PR Carol Levine 514-288-8500 ext. 226 Carol.levine@energipr.com Stephanie Engel 416-425-9143 ext. 209 Stephanie.engel@energipr.com Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Adam Plowright and Valerie Leroux (Agence France-Presse) Paris, France Wed, October 3, 2018 07:27 1138 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775b2e7f 2 World #France,#bomb,#Iran,France,accusation,Iran,bomb-plot Free France accused Iran's intelligence ministry on Tuesday of being behind a foiled plot to bomb an exiled opposition group near the French capital in a move that risks straining already complicated ties between Paris and Tehran. The French government announced it was freezing assets belonging to two suspected Iranian intelligence operatives, as well as others belonging to Iran's ministry of intelligence and security. France's decision to take retaliatory measures and go public with the accusations was taken three months after the alleged plot to bomb a meeting of the People's Mujahedeen of Iran (MEK) in a suburb of Paris. "This extremely serious act envisaged on our territory could not go without a response," France's interior, foreign and economy ministers said in a rare joint statement. "In taking this decision, France underlines its determination to fight against terrorism in all its forms, particularly on its own territory." A French diplomatic source told AFP that the security forces had concluded that "the head of operations at the (Iranian) intelligence ministry ordered it". Iran immediately denied any involvement, as it did in July when the MEK accused it of being responsible. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi told AFP in an interview that Tehran rejected the French complaint "completely and forcefully", but said the door for discussion was open. "If there is a misunderstanding... about a thing that does not exist, be it a conspiracy by others or a mistake, we can sit down and talk about it," he said Tuesday. - Raids across Europe - The alleged bomb plot came to light two days after thousands of Iranian opposition supporters gathered at an exhibition centre outside Paris on June 30. The meeting was attended by two allies of US President Donald Trump, former House speaker Newt Gingrich and former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani. The People's Mujahedeen was formed in the 1960s to overthrow the Shah of Iran and it continues to organise opposition to the current leaders of the Islamic republic who took power following the 1979 revolution. Belgium announced in July that it had arrested a couple in a Brussels suburb who were suspected of preparing to drive a car packed with explosives to the French rally. A total of six people were then detained in coordinated raids by European police. One of the detained men was an Iranian diplomat based in Vienna who was stopped by German police. The diplomat, Assadollah Asadi, was targeted by the asset freezes announced by French authorities Tuesday, along with Saeid Hashemi Moghadam, who the French diplomatic source said was head of operations at the intelligence ministry. Asadi is set to be extradited to Belgium to face trial, German authorities announced on Monday. "We deny the accusations and forcefully condemn the Iranian diplomat's arrest, and call for his immediate release," a statement from the Iranian foreign ministry said earlier Tuesday. - Diplomatic strains - The measures announced Tuesday come as French President Emmanuel Macron and his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani are at odds over a host of issues. Macron, who hoped to improve ties with Tehran at the start of his presidency last year, has allied with Iran over the 2015 nuclear deal which limits the Islamic Republic's atomic programme. While US President Donald Trump has pulled out of the agreement and denounced it, Macron has been a vocal supporter and has worked to keep the accord alive despite US sanctions. But Macron is at loggerheads with Rouhani over the wars in Syria and Yemen, in which Iran is a major player, and has raised concerns about the country's ballistic missile programme. The US considers Iran to be the world's biggest state sponsor of terrorism because of its links with a host of armed groups, particularly the powerful Hezbollah militia in Lebanon and Hamas in the Palestinian territories, as well as other networks in Iraq and Yemen. Iran has been blamed in the past for carrying out attacks in countries as far afield as Argentina, India and Thailand. The French diplomatic source said Iran was suspected of carrying out "several" assassinations of opposition figures in the European Union since 2015. Also Tuesday, around 200 French police launched a dawn anti-terror raid on one of the biggest Shiite Muslim centres in France, the Zahra Centre France, as well as on the homes of its directors. Two of three people arrested were released, according to sources close to the inquiry, while the centre's treasurer will face a hearing on Wednesday for the illegal possession of firearms. The Zahra Centre France was founded in 2009 by Yahia Gouasmi, a pro-regime activist and religious figure who has spoken in support of Hezbollah. Gouasmi is also the founder of the Anti-Zionist Party in France and an associate of controversial comedian Dieudonne M'bala M'bala, a convicted anti-Semite. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3 2018 PT MRT Jakarta, which operates the citys MRT, has said the identity of an alleged trespasser, who vandalized its train car on Sept. 21, has been identified. In a statement issued on Monday, MRT Jakarta secretary Tubagus Himatullah cited a report from the Central Jakarta Police that the alleged perpetrator could be a popular figure among street artists. According to the polices investigation, the vandal allegedly distributed stickers to people around the scene before the incident, Tubagus said. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Nurul Fitri Ramadhani (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 16:50 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775d70b0 1 Politics Ratna-Sarumpaet,assault,Prabowo-Sandiaga Free Outspoken antigovernment activist Ratna Sarumpaet admitted to having lied about being assaulted in Bandung, West Java, saying pictures of her swollen eyes that went viral on Tuesday were the result of liposuction. Ratna said that after having surgery at a hospital in Jakarta she had bruises on her face and lied to her children, telling them that she had been beaten by unidentified assailants. There was no assault. That was just a delusion inspired by Satan, she told the media hours after the police held a conference questioning her claims. She claimed that her family members, concerned about her swollen face, kept asking what had happened to her, so she made up a story about being assaulted. She conceded that it had been a mistake. I never thought that I would be this stupid. I dont know what evil encouraged me to create [the lie], Ratna said. So, there was no such assault. Ratnas claims turned political after presidential contender Prabowo Subianto met her and denounced the assault against her, saying that he would speak to National Police chief Gen. Tito Karnavian about the human rights abuse. Ratna has apologized to Prabowo and the public for her deception, particularly to National Mandate Party (PAN) patron Amien Rais, "who had been patient listening to me lying yesterday. The 69-year-old political activist, who is part of Prabowos campaign team, claimed to have been assaulted in Bandung, resulting in injuries to her face. Pictures showing Ratna with her eyes nearly swollen shut began circulating on social media on Tuesday. The deputy chairwoman of the Prabowo-Sandiaga Uno campaign team, Nanik S. Deyang, said on Tuesday that the incident had taken place on Sept. 21 near Husein Sastranegara International Airport. The police investigated Ratnas claims and found out that she had not been in Bandung that day, but at a Jakarta hospital specializing in cosmetic surgery. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Marchio Irfan Gorbiano (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 14:30 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775cc908 1 Business IMF,condolences,earthquake,tsunami,Palu,#IMFWBG,#IMFWorldBankMeeting Free The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has offered condolences and an expression of support to the Indonesian government over the earthquake and tsunami that struck Palu, Central Sulawesi, on Sept. 28. Were deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in Sulawesi a few weeks after the tragedy in Lombok, IMF director for Asia and Pacific Changyong Rhee told The Jakarta Post in an interview in Jakarta on Wednesday, referring to earlier earthquakes that hit Lombok island, West Nusa Tenggara. Our managing director [Christine Lagarde] wants to deliver the IMF and her sincere condolences to the survivors, victims and families and to the government of Indonesia. The disaster in the Central Sulawesi provincial capital has claimed 1,234 lives, according to the latest National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) data, with the death toll expected to go up as rescue efforts have yet to spread to affected regions outside Palu. The tragedy struck just as Indonesia is gearing up to host the IMF and World Bank Group annual meeting in Nusa Dua, Bali, from Oct. 8 to 14, which is expected to be attended by around 15,000 people. The government has said the annual meeting was still on schedule with preparations entering their final stage, while Finance Minister Sri Mulyani said measures of disaster risk financing would also be discussed in the annual meeting. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 16:17 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775d416e 1 City jakarta,Asian-Para-Games2018,police,sporting-event Free Jakarta Police chief Insp. Gen. Idham Azis has issued circulars urging Jakartans to keep law and order in mind during the Indonesia 2018 Asian Para Games. In the circulars, we advise residents not to stage any demonstrations during the 2018 Para Games. We want Jakarta to be a good host, Idham said on Wednesday as quoted by kompas.com. The event will be held in the capital from Oct. 6 to 13. He said the announcement was approved and signed by Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan, the Jakarta military commander, Jakartas courts and Jakarta Prosecutors Office. Idham added that the Jakarta Police would deploy 3,000 personnel to secure the event. For a month, we have conducted the Cipta Kondisi public safety operation and the National Police deputy chief has said terrorist threats, narcotics and street crime [would be curbed by the police during 2018 Para Games]. The Jakarta Police, regional military command (Kodam) and the city administration are ready to secure the event, he said. (ami) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Marguerite Afra Sapiie and Nurul Fitri Ramadhani (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 07:57 1138 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775b3e38 1 Politics Ratna-Sarumpaet,Jokowi,Prabowo-Sandiaga,assault Free The Joko "Jokowi" Widodo-Maruf Amin ticket has called on antigovernment activist Ratna Sarumpaet to report an alleged assault against her to prevent speculation over the nature of the incident. Ratna, who is part of presidential challenger Prabowo Subianto's campaign team, was reportedly assaulted in Bandung, West Java, and suffered injuries to her face, as indicated in pictures that circulated on social media on Tuesday that show her swollen eyes and a bruised face. Raja Juli Antoni, the secretary-general of the Indonesia Solidarity Party (PSI), said he read about the alleged assault against Ratna on the news and that he was saddened by it. "I hope that the incident does not have any political motives and it is only about personal and interpersonal issues," Antoni said in a statement on Tuesday. "To prevent wild speculation and to make the problem clearer, I hope Ibu Ratna will immediately report [the incident] to the police." Similarly, Abdul Kadir Karding, National Awakening Party (PKB) secretary-general, said the alleged assault must be investigated and the attackers must receive severe punishment. "We from [Jokowi's] campaign team want the case to be investigated thoroughly so that it will not be used as a political tool," Karding said. The deputy chairwoman of the Prabowo-Sandiaga Uno campaign team, Nanik S. Deyang, said on Tuesday that the incident took place on Sept. 21 near Husein Sastranegara International Airport. Ratna and several Sri Lankan and Malaysian friends were looking to take a taxi from a hotel after attending a conference. Ratna started to be cautious when her taxi stopped a bit far from the crowd. Her two friends walked to the airport while Ratna was grabbed by three unknown people to a quiet place where she was then beaten. Her stomach was kicked, Nanik said, repeating Ratnas account during a closed-door meeting with Prabowo, National Mandate Party (PAN) patron Amien Rais and Gerindra Party deputy chairman Fadli Zon. After she was beaten, Nanik said, Ratna was thrown to the side of the road, injuring her head. She was conscious when a taxi driver picked her up. The driver dropped her off on the side of a road around Cimahi. Ratna searched for a ride to a hospital in Cimahi and called her friend, who is a surgeon. Ratna went back to Jakarta directly [after the medical treatment], Nanik said, adding that Ratna was traumatized and decided to keep silent about the incident. Politicians from the Prabowo camp suspected that the incident was political as it took place ahead of the 2019 presidential election. Amien said after the meeting with Ratna that Prabowo would talk to National Police chief Gen. Tito Karnavian and other opposition figures about the alleged assault. It is unclear, however, if the the opposition camp will file a formal report about the assault to the police. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Christopher Rickleton and Gene A. Bunin (Agence France-Presse) Almaty, Kazakhstan Wed, October 3, 2018 16:24 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775d46f6 2 World #China,#humanrights,China,crackdown,Kazakhstan,families,human-rights Free When he looks back on his youth in China's far-west Xinjiang region, Akikat Kaliolla, an ethnic Kazakh, recalls the place's natural beauty and the big, colourful weddings typical of his majority-Muslim community. But now Emin County where he grew up is a sealed-off pocket in a region experiencing a security crackdown against what Beijing calls separatist elements. Over a million people are allegedly being held in a secretive network of extra-judicial, political re-education centres, according to a United Nations panel of experts. In an interview with AFP in Kazakhstan, Kaliolla, a 34-year-old national, said this year he'd lost contact with his mother, father and two younger brothers, who he believes were interned in one of the camps. "What they are doing to people there, especially to my parents, is illegal," the professional musician said, during the interview in Kazakhstan's largest city, Almaty. "They are not livestock but people with rights. Both of my parents are elderly and in ill health." About 1.5 million ethnic Kazakhs live in Xinjiang, a region that borders Central Asia and has long been home to ethnic tensions. They had until recently avoided the kind of state repression of which the mostly Muslim Uighurs, who make up the region's demographic majority, have long complained. But Kaliolla is just one of many to have been separated from relatives across the border, as the Chinese authorities now train their sights on the ethnic Kazakhs. He said that he knows of "around a hundred people" either interned in the camps or with relatives there. "Lots of them are the same people I watched get married," he added. His only contact with the missing family members in over six months was in August, when his brother got in touch at the request of Xinjiang authorities, he said. He demanded that Kaliolla stop "speaking out imprudently" about their situation, as this would only bring them harm, he explained. - Advances in surveillance - A report by Human Rights Watch on political repressions in Xinjiang said rights violations in the nominally autonomous region "are of a scope and scale not seen in China since the 1966-1976 Cultural Revolution." What has changed since that time, according to the report released in September, are advances in surveillance techniques and bio-data collection that are being practised systematically on largely Muslim minorities. In August, Beijing described as "completely untrue" the claim by a United Nations human rights panel that over a million ethnic Uighurs and other ethnic minorities had been placed in re-education camps. Kaliolla, who moved to Kazakhstan after meeting his future wife, a citizen, at a music school in Xinjiang, said his family was targeted because his father spoke out against injustices perpetrated by police in Emin County. "My father was a legal counsellor there. When the government began putting more and more pressure on the Kazakh people, he wrote an appeal to the central authorities in Beijing," he told AFP. - 'Help us, please' Unlike Uighurs, many of whom say they face cultural and religious repression, Kazakhs had long moved freely between China and their historic homeland. That freedom disappeared after hardline official Chen Quanguo, known for his control measures in Tibet, became the Xinjiang Communist Party chief in 2016. China has pointed to a series of attacks in Xinjiang by suspected Islamist radicals in recent years as justification for the clampdown. With concerns growing over the rights of the region's ethnic minorities, neighbouring Kazakhstan has inadvertently become the focus for those speaking out. Kazakhstan officials themselves have steadfastly refused to refer specifically to the camps, even after voicing concern over the situation. But Kazakh nationals with relatives missing in Xinjiang have been more forthright, sharing stories of despair and separation at press conferences in Almaty. "Eight months and no contact! Help us, please!" exclaimed one woman, Gaukhar Kurmanaliyeva, to reporters in August. Kurmanaliyeva spoke of how her male cousin, a Kazakh citizen, was snatched by Chinese police at a shopping area at the border. Her account was followed by that of Muratkhan Kasengazy, who said his wife -- another Kazakh passport holder -- had been held in China since December 2017 after going there for medical treatment. In recent months, Kazakhstan risked China's wrath by refusing to deport an ethnic Kazakh woman of Chinese citizenship, who had confessed to crossing the border illegally to join her husband and children. The woman, Sayragul Sauytbay, became an international media sensation after testifying in a court hearing that she had been forced by Beijing to work in a re-education camp, where, she said, 2,500 ethnic Kazakhs were interned. - Rare happy endings - Kazakh Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov said in August that his country was in dialogue with Beijing over nearly 700 cases of Kazakhs unable to leave China. In some instances, the approach appears to have borne fruit. Guzalnur Jeniskazy went to China to visit relatives in 2016, leaving her four-month-old daughter at home for what was meant to be a short trip. But she ended up spending several months under house arrest and even a short stint in detention after losing her Kazakh passport, she told AFP correspondents, who witnessed her emotional family reunion at an Almaty bus station in July. "Thanks to the Kazakh consulate (in Urumqi, Xinjiang) I was freed," she said, holding her daughter tightly pressed to her. Such happy endings seem a rarity, however. Dependent on China's economic largesse and seeking a pivotal role in its trillion-dollar trade and infrastructure drive, the oil-rich Central Asian country is poorly placed to make demands, analysts say. "Kazakhstan's leverage over China is miserly," Aidos Sarym, an Almaty-based political scientist, told AFP. "If China does not bend to the European Union and the United States, what can we say of Kazakhstan?" Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Dian Septiari (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 15:33 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775d2306 1 World #SoutheastAsia,Myanmar,#humanrights,#Myanmar,Rohingya,accountable Free The Indonesian representative to the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) said both ASEAN and the AICHR must take the necessary steps to hold Myanmar accountable for the atrocity that forced more than 700,000 Rohingya to flee the country last year. AICHR Indonesia is committed to urging Myanmar to be held accountable for genocides, war crimes and crimes against humanity that occur in the country. ASEAN and AICHR cannot remain silent, Dinna Wisnu told The Jakarta Post on Wednesday. Dinna said she had proposed an urgent special meeting among AICHR representatives following the latest report from a United Nations fact-finding mission, which revealed genocidal intent against the Rohingya last month. The idea was openly supported by representatives from Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines but rejected by Myanmar. They strongly object to the proposal by Indonesia she said, adding that Myanmar, however, conceded a possible unrecorded retreat meeting on the sidelines of the 28th AICHR meeting in Singapore in November. Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly last week that he and his ASEAN counterparts had met and discussed the situation in Rakhine. "To be brutally honest, this is a man-made humanitarian disaster and something that should not be happening in this day and age," he said on Tuesday as reported by AFP. He said the ministers told Myanmar that its Independent Commission of Enquiry, should be given a full mandate to investigate and to hold all those responsible fully accountable. Cadets from the merchant marine academy (STIP) welcome the docking of vessel Dar Mlodziezy from Poland with a marching band performance at Tanjung Priok Port in Jakarta, on Tuesday. Indonesia is the 10th country visited by the Polish ship, which is sailing around the world in commemoration of a century of Polish independence. (JP/David Caessarre)(STIP) welcome the docking of vessel Dar Mlodziezy from Poland with a marching band performance at Tanjung Priok Port in Jakarta, on Tuesday. Indonesia is the 10th country visited by the Polish ship, which is sailing around the world in commemoration of a century of Polish independence. (JP/David Caessarre) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 13:05 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775c96bb 1 City thief,police,jakarta,crime,stealing Free The Jakarta police have arrested four people who allegedly stole from houses in affluent neighborhood by pretending to be officers of state-owned electricity company PLN. Jakarta police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Argo Yuwono said on Tuesday that police had only managed to apprehend four out of the six members of the team. "We are still looking for the remaining two members of this team," he said as quoted by tempo.co. Two of the alleged thieves caught by the police identified as HDN, 48, and DH, 47, took the roles of pretending to be PLN officers, while the other two, 42-year-old AA and 29-year-old JN waited on their motorcycles. The last operation they conducted was in one of the houses on Jl. Ramayana in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta in late September. "They managed to take Rp 10 million (US$663) in cash and 57 grams of gold in their last operation," Argo said. They usually target houses that only have household assistants living in them. After they had found their target, two of the members were supposed to distract the assistant by talking to them. Meanwhile, the other two broke into the house's safe and took valuables by using a hex key, wrenches, a mini screwdriver and other modified tools that have been confiscated by the police as evidence. (ris) Date: Friday, November 2, 2018 Time: 11:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) BROOKFIELD NEWS, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- You are invited to participate in Brookfield Business Partners (TSX: BBU.UN) (NYSE:BBU) 2018 Third Quarter Conference Call & Webcast on Friday, November 2, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss with members of senior management our results and current business initiatives. Results will be released on Friday, November 2, 2018 prior to 8:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) and will be available following the release on our website at https://bbu.brookfield.com . To participate in the Conference Call please dial +1 (866) 521-4909 toll-free in the U.S and Canada or for overseas calls please dial +1 (647) 427-2311, conference ID: 1519659 at approximately 10:50 a.m. (Eastern Time). Live audio of the Conference Call will be available via webcast on our website or can be accessed at BBUQ32018Webcast . A replay of the Conference Call will be available until December 2, 2018 by dialing +1 (800) 585-8367 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada or +1 (416) 621-4642 for overseas calls, conference ID: 1519659. A replay of the webcast will be available on our website. Brookfield Business Partners is a business services and industrials company focused on owning and operating high-quality businesses that benefit from barriers to entry and/or low production costs. Brookfield Business Partners is listed on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges. Further information is available at https://bbu.brookfield.com . Important information may be disseminated exclusively via the website; investors should consult the site to access this information. Brookfield Business Partners is the flagship listed business services and industrials company of Brookfield Asset Management Inc., a global alternative asset manager with over $285 billion of assets under management. For more information, go to www.brookfield.com . Contact: Gwyn Hemme 416-359-8632 bbu.enquiries@brookfield.com Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 10:36 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775bb40a 1 City Pertamax,bank-cards,bank-mandiri,jakarta,traffic,gas-station Free Promo on Pertamax gasoline at several gas stations in the city on Tuesday led to traffic congestion and disgruntled drivers. "Im trying to be patient, but I cant, Finna Ulia Ulfah tweeted from her Twitter account @finnaulia on Tuesday, adding that the traffic to Bassura Mall in Jatinegara, East Jakarta, was not moving at all for one hour. I'm not taking advantage of the promo, but I have to bear the brunt of it. Thanks a lot Mandiri," Finna tweeted. The one-day promo of Rp 20,000 (US$1.33) for 20 liters of Pertamax gasoline held by state-owned lender Bank Mandiri to commemorate its 20th anniversary, was applied in 11 selected Pertamina gas stations across the city from 2 p.m. The promo was available only for the first 200 customers with Mandiri cards at each gas station. A gas station on Jl. Gatot Subroto, Kuningan, Jakarta, had long lines hours before the promo began. "The queue started at noon, Juli Mulyono, a security staffer at the gas station told tribunnews.com. We started letting cars come in for the promo at 2 p.m. Roads near several gas stations across the city, such as Jl. Cikini Raya in Central Jakarta, Jl. Basuki Rahmat in East Jakarta and Jl. S. Parman in West Jakarta, were also congested because of the promo, according to Jakarta Police Traffic Management Center tweets on Tuesday. (stu) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Rizky Fahcriansyah (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 11:23 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775c4161 2 Politics Ratna-Sarumpaet,Prabowo-Sandiaga,Jakarta-police,hoax,hate-speech,assault Free In a bizarre twist, a day after the opposition camp denounced the alleged assault and human rights abuse against its member, Ratna Sarumpaet, the Jakarta Police released on Wednesday a report suggesting, with damning evidence, that Ratna was in fact not assaulted but underwent facial surgery. Ratna, who is part of presidential challenger Prabowo Subianto's campaign team, claimed to have been assaulted in Bandung, West Java, resulting in injuries to her face, as indicated in pictures purportedly showing her swollen eyes that circulated on social media on Tuesday. The deputy chairwoman of the Prabowo-Sandiaga Uno campaign team, Nanik S. Deyang, said on Tuesday that the incident took place on Sept. 21 near Husein Sastranegara International Airport. Ratna and several Sri Lankan and Malaysian friends, she said, were looking to take a taxi from a hotel after attending a conference. The police were swift to probe her claim, even though Ratna insisted that she would not bring the case to the police. The polices investigative report shows that many of Ratnas claims just do not add up. The police said there was no international conference held in the region on Sept. 21 and that she was not on any flight manifest arriving in Bandung that day. Room B1 at third floor at the Bina Estetika Hospital where Ratna Sarumpaet is staying during her alleged plastic surgery. (Courtesy of/Jakarta Police) The police also found out a phone number registered to her name was active in Jakarta from Sept. 20 to Sept.30. Furthermore, they found that bank accounts belonging to Ratnas family transferred money to a cosmetic surgery hospital in Jakarta on Sept. 20, Sept. 21 and Sept. 24. The police then obtained hospital documents showing that Ratna was hospitalized after allegedly undergoing facial surgery at Bina Estetika Hospital from Sept. 21 (the day the alleged assault took place) to Sept. 24. "[Bina Estetika] is a hospital specializing in surgery, including dental surgery and other cosmetic surgery. It is not possible that she went there for treatment after being assaulted," Jakarta Police general crimes director Sr. Comr. Nico Afinta told the press on Wednesday morning. "Moreover, it is impossible that she was assaulted in Bandung on the evening of Sept. 21, because from Sept. 21 at 5 p.m. until Sept 24 at 9 p.m., she did not leave the hospital," he went on. To back up their findings, the report includes pictures of CCTV footage of the hospital, purportedly showing Ratna checking in and out of the hospital. The police also corroborate their claim by showing that the wallpaper in the viral photo of her swollen eyes and bruised face is identical to the wallpaper of the cosmetic surgery hospital. While Prabowo said he would meet National Police chief Gen. Tito Karnavian to discuss what he believed was an assault against Ratna, the police suggested that the woman could be charged with spreading lies and hate speech. Editor's note: This article has been updated to add the police statement from the press conference on Wednesday morning. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 17:19 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775de549 1 City drug-dealer,drug-smugglers,drugs-distribution,court-hearing,death-penalty Free The West Jakarta District Court handed down the death penalty on Tuesday to Rizky Albar, 29, and Rocky Siahaan, 37, for their roles in smuggling 1.3 tons of cannabis to Jakarta from Aceh in December last year. The verdicts were read in two separate hearings. "There are no mitigating factors. The defendant is sentenced to death," presiding judge Agus Setiawan said as he read Rizky's verdict, kompas.com reported. The panel of judges found him guilty of being the right hand of an infamous drug dealer named Iwan who currently remains at large in the drug's smuggling scheme. Agus said Rizky had been involved in several other massive drug smuggling attempts in the past, which contravened the government's efforts to curb illegal drug circulation in the country. In a separate hearing at the court, presiding judge Avrits sentenced Rocky to death for his role in recruiting several individuals to smuggle and distribute the cannabis. The four other defendants involved in the case, Frengky Alexandro Siburian, 31, Yohanes Cristian Natal, 31, Ade Susilo, 29, and Gardawan, 24, received different sentences. Gardawan was sentenced to life imprisonment, while the other three were sentenced to 20 years in prison. (Fac) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Jan Hennop and Danny Kemp (Agence France-Presse) The Hague, Netherlands Wed, October 3, 2018 21:09 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775e91df 2 World #UN,#USA,ICJ,Iran,sanctions,DonaldTrump Free The UN's top court ordered the United States on Wednesday to lift sanctions on humanitarian goods for Iran in a stunning rebuke to US President Donald Trump. Tehran hailed its "victory" after the International Court of Justice ruled that sanctions reimposed after Trump pulled out of a nuclear deal put Iranian lives at risk. The US said the case was "meritless" and only involved a few sanctions, although the decision is still likely to rile Trump. It remains unclear whether the judgment will be anything more than symbolic because both Washington and Tehran have ignored ICJ decisions in the past. The judges at the court in The Hague ruled unanimously that the sanctions on some goods breached a 1955 "Treaty of Amity" between Iran and the US that predates Iran's Islamic Revolution. They said Washington "shall remove by means of its choosing any impediments arising from the measures announced on 8 May to the free exportation to Iran of medicines and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities" as well as airplane parts and services, chief judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf said. The court said sanctions on goods "required for humanitarian needs... may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." US sanctions also had the "potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran." Trump slapped a first round of sanctions on Iran in August after pulling out in May from the 2015 international deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions, to the dismay of his European allies. A second round of punitive measures is due in November. - 'Meritless case' - Iran dragged the US to the ICJ in July, and during four days of hearings in late August, its lawyers accused Washington of "strangling" its economy. Foreign drugs are now a rare commodity in Iran which is also dealing with a free-falling rial local currency and price hikes. Official Iranian statements acknowledge the shortage and say imports of certain drugs are no longer subsidised. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif called the court ruling "another failure for sanctions-addicted US government and victory for rule of law". The foreign ministry said in a statement that the ruling was a "clear sign" that "Iran is in the right". Washington however says the case is outside the court's purview as it concerns a matter of national security. "This is a meritless case over which the court has no jurisdiction," US ambassador to the Netherlands Pete Hoekstra tweeted. But Hoekstra pointed out that the tribunal "declined to grant the sweeping measures requested by Iran" and it was "a narrow decision on a very limited range of sectors." Wednesday's ruling is in fact a decision on so-called provisional measures ahead of a final decision on the matter, which may take several more years, experts said. Decisions by the Hague-based ICJ, which rules on disputes between United Nations members, are binding but it has no mechanism through which it can enforce its decisions. - Iran, US ignored rulings - In 1986 Washington disregarded the courts finding that it had violated international law by supporting the pro-US Contra rebels in Nicaragua. Iran in turn ignored the ICJs ruling in 1980 to release hostages taken during the Iran hostage crisis. Trump has previously shown his disdain for overarching international organisations that limit US sovereignty, including the UN. He recently heavily criticised the separate International Criminal Court in The Hague over a probe into alleged US abuses in Afghanistan. Trump has also ridden roughshod over his allies, alarming allies with his decision to pull out of the 2015 nuclear deal that saw Iran agree to limit its nuclear programme and let in international inspectors in return for an end to years of sanctions by the West. Trump argues that funds from the lifting of sanctions under the pact have been used to support terrorism and build nuclear-capable missiles. European allies have pledged to keep the deal alive, with plans for a mechanism to let firms skirt the US sanctions as they do business with Iran. US-Iran relations have plunged to a new low since Trump's election in 2016 Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani facing off at the UN in September. Despite their 1955 Treaty of Amity and Economic Relations, Iran and the United States have not had diplomatic ties since 1980. Hearings in a separate Iranian case against the US freezing of around $2 billion of Iranian assets to help American terror victims is due to start at the ICJ next week. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Washington, United States Wed, October 3, 2018 08:08 1138 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775b46d6 2 World #USA,#France,#bomb-plot,USA,warning,Iran,France,bomb-plot Free The United States, which has been intensifying pressure on Iran, on Tuesday issued a fresh warning after Paris accused Tehran's intelligence agency over a bomb plot. "France taking strong action against failed Iranian terrorist plot in Paris -- Tehran needs to know this outrageous behavior will not be tolerated," the White House's National Security Council tweeted. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told reporters the incident reinforced that Iran was "the world's top sponsor of terrorism." France said Tuesday it was freezing assets of two suspected Iranian intelligence operatives over an alleged plot to bomb a rally in Paris three months ago. The event was being held by the armed opposition group the People's Mujahedin of Iran (MEK), which Tehran considers a terrorist group but which Western powers have removed from its blacklists. Iran immediately denied any involvement, as it did in July when the MEK accused it of being responsible. The incident comes after President Donald Trump pulled out of an international agreement on curbing Iran's nuclear program, defying allies including France which says that the deal is working. The Trump administration has vowed to curtail Iranian influence and criticized the Europeans for seeking to evade impending US sanctions on transactions with Iran. European officials, and the administration of former president Barack Obama, pointed to divisions in Iran's government and hoped to strengthen moderates such as President Hassan Rouhani over elements in the security and clerical establishments that are deeply hostile to the West. The US considers Iran to be the world's biggest state sponsor of terrorism because of its links with a host of armed groups, particularly the powerful Hezbollah militia in Lebanon and Hamas in the Palestinian territories, as well as other networks in Iraq and Yemen. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Reuters) Manila Thu, October 4, 2018 03:00 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775ec54e 2 News Philippines,Boracay,tourism,travel,tourists Free The Philippines will limit the number of visitors setting foot on its most treasured island resort each day when it reopens to tourists on October 26 after a six-month rehabilitation effort, an environment official said on Wednesday. Boracay, located off the northern tip of the central island of Panay, is famed for its sugary white sands, turquoise waters, lively nightlife and abundant water sports, which attracted nearly 2 million domestic and foreign visitors last year. But in April, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the closure of the island, calling it a "cesspool", because of sewage dumped into the sea and buildings constructed too close to the shore. About a third of the 600 to 700 resorts on Boracay, about 308 km (192 miles) from Manila, the capital, were operating without permits, authorities found. Just 19,000 tourists will be allowed on the island on any given day, with the number of workers capped at 15,000 daily, the environment official, Sherwin Rigor, said in a television interview. Read also: Expect Better Boracay in October: Philippines Only half of the island's 12,000 existing hotel rooms will be allowed to open each day, he added, to ensure the number of guests on the tiny 10-sq-km (4-sq-mile) island is below its "carrying capacity" of 55,000. Rigor, who is an undersecretary at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, added that authorities would ban beachfront parties, and activities such as eating, smoking and drinking there. The closure of Boracay, which earns the Philippines more than a billion dollars in tourism revenue every year, weighed on gross domestic product in the second quarter. Growth slowed to a near three-year low of 6 percent in April-June. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 12:36 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775c8ea8 4 Destinations kampung,batik,fabric,destination,travel Free As a signature fabric of Indonesia, batik can be found in big as well as small cities across the archipelago. Tourists visiting each region can expect to find batik with many different motifs. Besides offering discounted products, batik kampungs also allow visitors to see how the fabric is created and even participate in making it as they serve as both tourist destinations and batik education sites. Following are six batik kampungs you can visit as compiled by KompasTravel: 1. Kampung Batik Laweyan, Surakarta, Central Java This place is one of several batik kampungs in Surakarta that one can visit. Laweyan is said to be an ancient settlement that dates back to the Pajang kingdom of the 1500s. Dozens of houses here serve as batik stores, workshops where they make the fabric and create new patterns and home for the artisans. Batik Solo is identical with soil colors and available at various prices. The cheapest one is printed batik, while the most expensive is hand-drawn batik with natural dyes. 2. Kampung Batik Semarang, Central Java This kampung is said to be the birth place of batik Semarang after it fell into a slumber during Dutch occupation. Located near Kota Lama and Johar Market, the kampung serves as a center of new motifs that reflect Semarang, such as asem, blekok, gombel and other things. Kampung Batik Semarang is also a great photo opportunity as it has many Instagrammable batik murals. Batik prices here are varied, from Rp 50,000 (US$3.32) for printed batik to Rp 5 million for hand-drawn batik featuring Semarang-style motifs. For those who are not looking for new clothes or fabric, this place also sells various batik accessories, from bags and shoes to keychains. Read also: Nine Surakarta kampung ready to host tourists 3. Kampung Batik Giriloyo, Yogyakarta This center of Giriloyo hand-drawn batik is a popular destination for tourists wanting to learn how to make batik. A hamlet in Wukirsari village, Imogiri district, Bantul regency, Yogyakarta, Giriloyo sells batik education tourism packages. Included in the packages are trips to traditional houses and tombs of Mataram kings on the peak of Imogiri Hill. Participants can also expect to enjoy the hamlet's traditional cuisine, namely pecel kembang turi (rice with nut-based sauce accompanied by vegetables) and wedang uwuh (traditional Javanese drink). 4. Kampung Batik Trusmi, Cirebon, West Java Though many recognize Trusmi as a store's name or one of Cirebon's batik brands, Trusmi is actually a village that houses Cirebon's batik artisans. Situated in Plered district, Cirebon city, visitors can enter this area located behind the huge Batik Trusmi store on the side of Jl. Raya Plered. There you will find dozens of batik centers that make batik fabric, selling it at discounted prices. The kampung also offers signature Cirebon cuisine, such as tahu gejrot (fried tofu in sweet spicy sauce) and empal gentong (aromatic beef soup). 5. Kampung Batik Putat Jaya, Surabaya, East Java Previously home to the Dolly red-light district, the place now serves as a popular batik kampung for tourists in Surabaya. It boasts signature motifs of daun (leaf) and buah jarak. Centers at 8B alley, the area is always packed with visitors, from mothers and students to locals and foreign tourists. Kampung Batik Putat Jaya also offers a batik-making workshop, discussion and batik production tour. 6. Kampung Batik Palbatu, Jakarta Situated in Palbatu, Tebet, South Jakarta, this kampung has been operating only since 2011. It holds two Indonesian Museum of Records (MURI) records for longest batik street and most batik-painted houses. No wonder many visit to take selfies due to its Instagrammable factor. Initially established to preserve batik Betawi's motifs, the kampung now hosts studios where residents and tourists can learn batik-making. (kes) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Reuters) Bangkok Wed, October 3, 2018 16:07 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775d3a73 2 News maya-bay,Thailand,beach,tourists,destination,travel,tourism Free A Thai beach made famous by the 2000 Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach will stay closed indefinitely to give its ecosystem time to recover, authorities said on Tuesday. Maya Bay, on Phi Phi Leh island in the Andaman Sea, was closed for four months on June 1 in a bid to salvage the areas coral reefs, which have been damaged by warmer temperatures and a flood of tourists. Up to 6,000 visitors had gone to the beach every day, traveling by speedboat from the nearby resort islands of Phi Phi and Phuket and Krabi on the mainland. Four months closure was not enough, Songtham Sukswang, the director of the Office of National Parks, told Reuters. Read also: Chinese tourists just can't get enough of Thailand We need at least a year or even up to two years or maybe more for the environment to recover - this include the coral reefs, mangrove, and the beach, Songtham said. Tourism makes up about 12 percent of Thailands economy, but there has been growing concern about the countrys ability to manage its rapidly growing number of visitors. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Kyodo News) Wed, October 3, 2018 19:07 1137 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775e773a 2 News Moomin,Tokyo,Japan,theme-park,travel,tourist-attraction Free A ceremony marking the end of construction work was held Wednesday for Japan's first Moomin-themed amusement park, which is located near Tokyo and scheduled for a phased opening beginning this November. Newly appointed Finnish Ambassador to Japan Pekka Orpana was among those attending the event in Hanno, Saitama Prefecture, to celebrate the completion of the park named Metsa, built in a 23.6-hectare forest area surrounding a manmade lake. The park consists of two areas -- Metsa Village, featuring restaurants and other facilities offering glimpses into Northern European lifestyles, and Moomin Valley Park, which contains structures from Moomin stories and where attractions will be held. Read also: Japanese cafes based on anime and manga The former is slated to open Nov. 9, while the latter opens on March 16 next year, according to investment firm FinTech Global Inc., a major stakeholder. Initially, the Tokyo-based company had eyed launching the amusement park in 2015, but adjusted its timeline due to difficulties finding a proper site. Infrastructural work started in June of last year. The Moomin characters, created by Finnish author-illustrator Tove Jansson, became popular in Japan through a TV animation series that debuted in 1969. "Metsa" means forest in the Finnish language. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, October 3, 2018 09:33 1138 882ab4bc56dbda08a069b308775b8fbf 4 News Palu,Palu-Earthquake-Tsunami,Donggala,Donggala-earthquake-tsunami,Tourism-Minister-Arif-Yahya,Tourism-Ministry Free The Tourism Ministry has assigned personnel from the Makassar Tourism Polytechnic to monitor and gather information on the situation in Donggala and Palu, Central Sulawesi, after the region was devastated by a 7.4-magnitude and ensuing tsunami on Friday. We are monitoring the effects [of the disaster] on the areas 3As [attraction, amenities and accommodation) and tourists. I have deployed two personnel from the ministry to check on the tourists, Tourism Minister Arief Yahya told Kompas Travel on Monday evening. Read also: How you can help Palu earthquake victims The ministrys head of public communications, Guntur Sakti, said the earthquake had cut off telecommunication lines as well as road access to Palu and Donggala. These are among the challenges faced by the ministry in gathering data from affected hotels and tourists. Access to both Palu and Donggala is limited. There are security risks and telecommunications are down. Several generators are functioning. These are among the reasons why we havent been able to reach the location yet, so we assigned a ministry team closest to Palu, which is from the Makassar Tourism Polytechnic, Guntur said. The Tourism Ministry said it was also in constant coordination with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) and the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) to gather information on the affected areas in Palu and Donggala. The ministry posts updates of its findings on the Visit Indonesia Tourism Office (VITO) website. (asw) GOLDEN, Co., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Golden Minerals Company (Golden Minerals, Golden or the Company) (NYSE American and TSX: AUMN) today reported results from a second Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) completed for its Santa Maria silver and gold project located in southern Chihuahua State, Mexico. The PEA presents an updated assessment and incorporates data accumulated since March 2017. It includes an additional 77 hectares of mineral tenure acquired in August 2017 that cover the on-strike and downdip extensions of the Santa Maria vein systems. It also incorporates information from a 22-hole, 4,800-meter drilling program completed in 2018. The new PEA shows significant improvement in projected cash flow, metal production and profitability compared to the previous study. Additionally, the PEA includes an updated National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) compliant mineral Resource Estimate dated as of September 14, 2018. Warren M. Rehn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Golden Minerals Company, comments, The Santa Maria project offers Golden Minerals a low capital cost re-entry into potential silver production in Mexico. Estimated future cash flow and NPV have increased by about 50% based on the additional resources in the study. The $1M start-up cost is at the lowest end of the spectrum of capital cost requirements due to the projects proximity to existing process facilities and the existing underground development. It is also important to point out that the deposit is open at depth and there are numerous additional veins on the property that have not yet been drilled. PEA Highlights After-tax net present value (NPV): (US)$10.6 million at a 5% discount rate After-tax internal rate of return (IRR): 159.0% After-tax payback period: 10 months Total capital cost: $1.2 million, comprised of $1.0 million initial and $0.2 million sustaining capital expenditures Pre-production development time: 6 months Life of mine (LOM) 4.2 years LOM after tax free cash flow $12.4 million LOM payable silver production 2.66 million oz. LOM payable silver equivalent production 3.13 million oz 1 LOM average silver grade 331 grams per tonne (g/t) LOM average gold grade 0.78 g/t Net cash cost $10.72 per payable ounce of silver 2 All-in sustaining costs (AISC) $11.12 per payable silver oz. 2 1 Calculated using prices of Au $1,238/oz and Ag $16.63/oz, or 74:1 gold: silver 2 Cash cost and AISC are defined in Non-GAAP Financial Measures below Note: PEA parameters assume a silver price of $16.63/oz and a gold price of $1,238/oz, which are the three-year trailing average prices, per SEC reporting guidelines, and a discount rate of 5%. All figures throughout this release are expressed in US Dollars unless otherwise noted. Key parameters of the PEA are shown in the following sections. Please note the PEA is preliminary in nature and includes Inferred Mineral Resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves. Standalone economics have not been undertaken for the Indicated Resources and as such no reserves have been estimated for the project. There is no certainty that the economic results described in the PEA will be realized. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Financial Summary After-tax economic results have been summarized below. Financial Results Summary Financial Results Post-Tax ($M) Cumulative Cash Flows (LOM) $12.4 Net Present Value (5%) (Base Case) $10.6 Net Present Value (8%) $9.7 Net Present Value (10%) $9.1 Internal Rate of Return (IRR) 159.0% Payback 0.8 years Total Capital Costs $1.2 Key Model Parameters TEM Results Description Unit Cost ($/t-milled) Total Value ($000s) NSR $146.27 $45,055 Land Acquisition ($2.97) ($915) Net Revenue $143.30 $44,140 Operating Costs Mining $49.31 $15,188 Processing $43.26 $13,324 G&A $1.34 $412 Lease $0.75 $230 Operating Costs $94.65 $29,154 Operating Margin $48.65 $14,986 Capital Costs Mining - $370 Infrastructure - $525 Owner Costs - $316 Capital Costs - $1,211 Estimate of Tax Federal Tax - $0 Special Mining Tax - ($1,170) Precious Metals Tax - ($225) Estimate of Tax - ($1,395) Cash Flow - $12,380 NPV 5% - $10,593 IRR - 159.3% Payback (months) - 10 General Assumptions General Assumptions Description Units Value Market Prices Gold1 $/oz $1,238 Silver1 $/oz $16.63 Taxes Federal Tax2 % 30.0% Special Mining Tax % 7.5% Precious Metals Tax % 0.5% Financial Discount Rate % 5.0% 1 Three-year trailing average prices, per SEC reporting guidelines 2 Not applied due to Net Operating Losses Process Summary Process Summary Description Units Value Payable Metal Recoveries Sulfide Gold % 83% Silver % 91% Transition Gold % 89% Silver % 94% Oxide Gold % 85% Silver % 73% Recovered Metals Gold koz 6.5 Silver koz 2,745 Capital Estimates Initial capital costs of $1.0 million are anticipated to be very low due to the utilization of an existing third-party mill for processing and an existing equipment fleet from the Companys Velardena Properties. Sustaining capital is estimated at just $0.2 million over the mine life and includes closure costs. Capital Cost Estimate Summary Description Initial Capital ($000s) Sustaining Capital ($000s) Total Capital ($000s) Mining $370 $0 $370 Infrastructure $525 $0 $525 Owner's Costs $128 $188 $316 Total $1,023 $188 $1,211 Mining Operations and Milling The PEA estimates a 4.2-year underground mining operation using pre-existing and new underground development at an average mine production rate of 218 tonnes per day, using a combination of cut-and-fill and sublevel stoping. It is currently envisioned that both mixed and sulfide materials will undergo toll- milling at a local third-party facility with sulfide flotation circuits. Oxide material will be cyanide leached at the same toll-milling facility. Santa Maria is estimated to deliver 150k tonnes of diluted sulfide mineralized material to the mill at an average grade of 378 g/t silver equivalent (AgEq), 116k tonnes of diluted oxide material at an average grade of 428 g/t AgEq and 42k tonnes of diluted transitional material at an average grade of 278 g/t AgEq. Mineral Resource Estimate Dated September 14, 2018 In conjunction with the PEA, Tetra Tech prepared an updated Mineral Resource estimate in compliance with NI 43-101 at Santa Maria. Classification Cutoff Grade Tonnes Ag g/t Au g/t AgEq g/t Ag toz Au toz AgEq toz AgEq g/t (M) (k) (M) Measured 180 42,000 271 0.83 333 0.37 1.13 0.45 Indicated 180 170,000 291 1.04 368 1.59 5.7 2.01 Inferred 180 261,000 272 0.9 346 2.3 7.61 2.92 Notes: Cutoff grade and Ag equivalent calculated using metal prices of $16.63 and $1,238 per troy ounce of Ag and Au with a ratio of 74:1, the 3-year trailing average as of the end of May 2018; Cutoff applied to diluted Ag equivalent block grades using recoveries of 90% and 80% Ag and Au; Columns may not total due to rounding. Property Title and Ownership Golden Minerals has the right to acquire the Santa Maria property under two separate option agreements representing the total concessions that comprise the property for additional payments of $1.2 million, payable through April 2022. The first option agreement covers concessions acquired in August 2014 and requires an additional $0.6 million be paid by continuing to make minimum payments of $0.2 million in each of the years 2019 through 2021. In addition, until the total due under the first option agreement has been paid, the property owners have the right to 50% of any net profits from mining activities from the concessions related to the option, after reimbursement of all costs incurred by us since April 2015, to the extent that such net profit payments exceed the minimum payments. The second option agreement covers concessions acquired in August 2017 and requires an additional $0.6 million be paid by making additional payments of $0.2 million in each of the years 2019 through 2021. PEA Information The discounted cash flows in the PEA are provided post-tax and are prepared in compliance with National Instrument 43-101 of the Canadian Securities Administrators. Tetra Tech is an independent engineering firm that served as principal author of the PEA prepared on behalf of the Company. The following Qualified Persons from Tetra Tech will co-author the technical report that will be filed on SEDAR within 45 days of this news release: Dante Ramirez, PhD, MMSA QP, and Leonel Lopez, AIPG- Geol. Eng. QP, SME-RM. Each of these Qualified Persons has reviewed and approved the information presented in this news release that was derived from the sections of the PEA study for which they were responsible. Each of the named Qualified Persons is independent of Golden Minerals. The contents of this press release have been reviewed and approved by Warren M. Rehn, M.Sc., QP MMSA (#01449QP), a Qualified Person for the purposes of NI 43-101. Mr. Rehn has over 33 years of mineral exploration experience and is President, Chief Executive Officer and a Director of Golden Minerals Company. Data Verification Tetra Tech authors of this and previous technical reports prepared for the Company visited the Santa Maria site to conduct data verification activities on multiple occasions in conjunction with the 2015 and 2017 reports. Data verification conducted during site visits included observations of drill hole collar locations and orientations, drill core, channel sample locations, channel sample collection, underground mine accesses, on mineralized structure drifts and stopes, stockpiled oxide material from waste backfill mucking. The deposit was witnessed in underground workings and at the surface but was not traversed in its entirety. Confirmatory sampling of drill core was not completed due to the sparseness of mineral intervals; the author did not want to eliminate the physical record of previously halved core for the purposes of verification. Drill hole collars and their orientations were observed in the field using a compass and handheld global positioning system (GPS). Verification of collars locations and orientations were found to correspond to those provided by Minera Cordilleras, a Mexican wholly-owned subsidiary of Golden Minerals. Core boxes containing mineralized intervals of the following drill holes SM14-04 and SM14-09 were made available for visual review. The textures observed are typical of epithermal veins including banding of quartz and sulfide minerals, quartz flooding, brecciation, and oxidation. In addition to visually reviewing core on site, the author has reviewed core photos of mineral intervals and spot checked the assay database provided with assay certificates from the laboratory. As part of the data verification, 18 channel samples were selected to be re-sampled and submitted to ALS for analysis. The samples were chosen by the author of this report and were collected on the ramp and the East side of the 1890-meter level. The collection of the samples from within the mine was witnessed by the author. The samples were delivered to ALS Chihuahua where the sample preparation facility was toured. The original samples from the project database are compared to the check samples, the chart axes have been log base 10 transformed. The results of the verification sampling correspond well to those provided by Minera Cordilleras. As such, the quality of data collected by Minera Cordilleras meets industry standard practice and is sufficient to support the estimation of Mineral Resources. About Golden Minerals Golden Minerals is a Delaware corporation based in Golden, Colorado. The Company is primarily focused on advancing its El Quevar silver property in Argentina and in acquiring and advancing mining properties in Mexico with emphasis on areas near its Velardena processing plants. Cautionary Note to United States Investors Regarding Estimates of Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources This press release uses the terms "Mineral Resources", "Indicated Mineral Resources" and "Inferred Mineral Resources" which are defined in, and required to be disclosed by, NI 43-101. We advise U.S. investors that these terms are not recognized under the SEC Industry Guide 7. Accordingly, the disclosures regarding mineralization in this news release may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by Golden Minerals in the reports it files with the SEC. The estimation of measured resources and indicated resources involves greater uncertainty as to their existence and economic feasibility than the estimation of proven and probable reserves. The estimation of inferred resources involves far greater uncertainty as to their existence and economic viability than the estimation of other categories of resources. US investors are cautioned not to assume that any or all of Minerals Resources are economically or legally mineable or that these Mineral Resources will ever be converted into Mineral Reserves. In addition, the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute SEC Industry Guide 7 compliant reserves as in-place tonnage and grade without reference to unit amounts. U.S. investors are urged to consider closely the disclosure in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and other SEC filings. Non-GAAP Financial Measures Cash cost per payable silver ounce is a non-GAAP financial measure calculated by the Company as set forth below and may not be comparable to similar measures reported by other companies. Cash cost includes all direct and indirect costs associated with the physical activities that would generate concentrate products for sale to customers, including mining to gain access to mineralized materials, mining of mineralized materials and waste, milling, third-party related treatment, refining and transportation costs, on-site administrative costs and royalties. Cash cost does not include depreciation, depletion, amortization, exploration expenditures, reclamation and remediation costs, financing costs, income taxes, or corporate general and administrative costs not directly or indirectly related to Santa Maria. Cash cost is divided by the number of payable silver ounces generated by the plant for the period to arrive at cash cost per payable ounce of silver. All-in sustaining costs (AISC) includes cash cost plus on-site exploration, reclamation and sustaining capital costs. AISC is divided by the number of payable silver ounces generated by the plant for the period to arrive at AISC per payable ounce of silver. Cost of sales is the most comparable financial measure, calculated in accordance with GAAP, to cash cost. As compared to cash cost, cost of sales includes adjustments for changes in inventory and excludes third-party related treatment, refining and transportation costs, which are reported as part of revenue in accordance with GAAP. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and applicable Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the Santa Maria PEA results (including cost estimates, assumption of silver and gold prices, development timing, expected cash flows and life of mine and production expectations); future activities at Santa Maria, the likelihood of future expansion of the deposit, and the possibility of future development; and estimates of mineral resources for the Santa Maria project. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to: the reasonability of the economic assumptions at the basis of the results of the Santa Maria PEA and technical report; changes in interpretations of geological, geostatistical, metallurgical, mining or processing information and interpretations of the information resulting from future exploration, analysis or mining and processing experience; declines in general economic conditions; fluctuations in exchange rates and changes in political conditions, in tax, royalty, environmental and other laws in Mexico and financial market conditions; new information from drilling programs or other exploration or analysis; unexpected variations in mineral grades, types and metallurgy; fluctuations in silver and gold prices; and failure of mined material or veins mined to meet expectations. Golden Minerals assumes no obligation to update this information. Additional risks relating to Golden Minerals may be found in the periodic and current reports filed with the SEC by Golden Minerals, including the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017. New York City, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Drift, a new power company that uses artificial intelligence and high-frequency trading to provide 100% renewable, low-cost, local power, and Budweiser, The King of Beers, announced a partnership to help business and consumers switch to low cost, 100% renewable electricity. The partnership, announced during Climate Week in New York City, comes as the beer maker has committed to producing Budweiser around the world with 100% renewable energy by 2025. It takes a lot of electricity to brew the King of Beers so we are excited to transition to 100% renewable electricity for all Budweisers brewed around the world, said Brian Perkins, Global VP at Budweiser. We know that climate change is an important issue for consumers. However, they arent sure how their everyday actions can make a difference. Our new partnership with Drift will help them do just that. We think a partnership between the king of low-cost, 100% renewable electricity and the king of beers makes sense. Working together, Budweiser and Drift can help show consumers and business of all sizes the difference they can make for the planet, and for their bottom lines, by choosing green power, said Drift CEO Greg Robinson. The Partnership Budweiser and Drifts new partnership comes as the King of Beers recently committed to using 100% renewable electricity for the global production of its beer by 2025 and driving meaningful change on a global scale. 41 million Budweisers are sold on average every day around the world, and switching to renewable electricity in Budweiser brewing operations will correspond to taking 48,000 passenger cars off the road every year. The initial focus of the partnership will be to encourage consumers #CHOOSERENEWABLES by signing up with Drift. New customers can use code BUD100 at joindrift.com/BUD100 and well take $100 off your first renewable energy bill. Big change only happens if we are all 100% in. Switching to 100% renewable-energy from Drifts takes less than a minute and will allow consumers to save money while helping to save the planet. In addition to consumer-focused efforts, Budweiser is inviting other brands to help build a movement to celebrate renewable electricity use as a way to tackle climate change. Towards that end, Drift and Budweiser will look to expand their partnership to take advantage of Drifts ability to offer low-cost, 100% renewable energy for both consumers and business as the beermaker works to achieve its 2025 goal. The Energy Market Challenge Technology has transformed almost every aspect of our economy but left the aging and inefficient power markets in the United States almost untouched. The result is that America spends close to $1.3 trillion a year (8% of GDP) on energy, with close to 60% of those dollars paying for energy that is produced but never used. Due to these gross inefficiencies, America pays more annually for wasted energy than it does to maintain the U.S. Military. According to the Energy Information Agency, national residential electricity prices have increased by over 50% since 2003. Despite innovations in energy efficiency and the growth of alternative energy solutions, the U.S power markets have seen little change in the past century. Utility companies estimate how much electricity they will need to power the market 24 hours beforehand based, in many cases, on a rough combination of average monthly energy use in the previous year and citywide weather forecasts for the next day. The utility then purchases energy on the large-scale wholesale market, adds 10 - 20% in administrative fees in addition to fees for maintaining the energy grid infrastructurethings like power lines and transformersand then sells it to consumers and businesses. Several times a year, utility companies underestimate how much power theyll need for the next day and demand outstrips supply resulting in prices up to 40 times higher than normal, which is good for profit margins but bad for customers. Its an outdated and inefficient process with one winner: the utility company. Drifts Solution Because wind, solar and hydropower on the grid is unpredictable, most green energy companies actually sell their customers fossil fuel-based energy coupled with renewable energy credits. The actual energy consumed is dirty, but it helps to underwrite the production of green energy which largely goes unused. For the first time in history, Drift is able to provide business and consumers with 100% renewable, always-on electricity, not credits or off-set certificates. The company uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to determine how much energy will be needed the next day by factoring in things like an individual customers daily energy use over time as well as zipcode-level microclimate weather data estimates. Drift then turns to its network of peer-to-peer energy producersranging from iconic skyscrapers to hydroelectric dams and wind and solar farmsto procure power for consumers. In the event that demand outstrips supply, Drift uses high-frequency trading to reduce or eliminate price spikes altogether. Drifts technology allows it to source power directly from a growing network of independent renewable energy producers helping to cut out the 10 - 20% in administrative fees that traditional utility companies pass on to customers. As Drift expands its network of peer-to-peer energy producers over the next two years, it expects to lower prices even further by creating a more efficient and price competitive electricity market. With a traditional utility company, the more energy you use the more money it makes. Drift doesnt charge service fees and doesnt make a dime off of how much energy is used. The companys entire value proposition is helping consumers to save while saving the planet. Following the successful growth of its residential electricity business in New York City, Drift has expanded its service to commercial businessesboth large and small. Now enterprises of all size can benefit from Drifts ability to increase the amount of renewable energy they consume while lowering prices. About Drift Drift is America's first national, peer-to-peer energy company. The company uses a distributed network of independent energy producers, machine learning, artificial intelligence and high-frequency trading technology to seamlessly match supply and demand in real time. The company's unique approach and proprietary software allow independent energy producers to maximize their profits while residential and business customers minimize both their energy costs and their impact on the environment. The company offers its service to consumers and business in New York City and plans to expand across the country over the course of 2019. Drift is supported by some of the brightest investors in the world, including IA Ventures, First Round Capital, Lerer Hippeau Ventures, SV Angel, Joe Montana's Liquid 2 Ventures, Third Kind Venture Capital, Acequia Capital, Kal Vepuri, and Joshua Schachter, and M Ventures. To sign up for Drift or find out more about the company, please visit https://joindrift.com. About Budweiser Budweiser, an American-style lager, was introduced in 1876 when company founder Adolphus Busch set out to create the United States' first truly national beer brand brewed to be universally popular and transcend regional tastes. Each batch of Budweiser stays true to the same family recipe used by five generations of Busch family brewmasters. Budweiser is a medium-bodied, flavorful, crisp and pure beer with blended layers of premium American and European hop aromas, brewed for the perfect balance of flavor and refreshment. Budweiser is made using time-honored methods including "kraeusening" for natural carbonation and Beechwood aging, which results in unparalleled balance and character. Arts Council England have invested 250,000 in the project, which has been produced by Emergency Exit Arts.Image: No attribution required EEA Artistic Director Deb Mullins spoke in a press release about the purpose of the project. She says, a couple of years ago, I found an old photograph of my Great Aunt as a child at a peace tea on the street where I grew up. They were celebrating the rebuilding of peace in Europe. I learned that these were held across the country and I was inspired to think about how we build peace as individuals, as communities and nationally. Mullins hopes that this years project will once again bring people together in an outdoor celebration. The project will take off on 12th November with the first in a series of art pieces, a 14-foot high illuminated poem by London-based artist and poet Robert Montgomery. ( http://www.robertmontgomery.org/ ) This opening tribute will be displayed at venues in London, Bradford, Dewsbury, Stoke-on-Trent, Nottingham and Peterborough. Thousands will also see the spectacle as it travels by road between destinations.Associated museums will be sharing oral histories and World War 1 archives, and to ensure the legacy continues, young producers aged 18-25 are working with artists and heritage organisations to produce their own contributions. You can find Montgomerys striking opener to the project at the following:9 Wellington Road, Dewsbury WF13 1HF www.creativescene.org.uk | 01924 437 96672 Hartshill Rd, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 7RB www.b-arts.org.uk/ | 01782 84883511-13 Hockley, Nottingham NG1 1FH www.city-arts.org.uk | 0115 9505251Priestgate, Peterborough PE1 1LF www.vivacity.org | 01733 864663 Creative Partner Brick Box (Bradford) will be collaborating on the finale events in 2019. Many sceptics voiced their concern when it was announced that Sofia Coppola, daughter of acclaimed director Francis Ford Coppola, wanted to follow in her father's footsteps and into the director's seat, but, seven features and an Academy Award later, it is clear to see that the scepticism and concern was undeniably misplaced. Whilst this month celebrates the 15th anniversary of the release of Coppolas most personal film, the relatability and trueness of the melancholy and musing feature remains timeless. Securing the then up-and-coming director with an Academy Award for best original screenplay, the story centres around a brief but affecting encounter between two disoriented strangers in Tokyo. Charlotte (Scarlett Johansson) is a young wife accompanying her workaholic photographer husband on a work assignment. Unable to pry her seemingly adoring spouse away from his work, she finds herself wandering around the inviting hotel and city, consumed by thoughts of bewilderment and longing. Bob Harris (Bill Murray), a fading and abstracted actor also dominated by feelings of seclusion and withdrawal, like Charlotte, finds himself roaming the unfamiliar halls of the hotel, in search of purpose and connection. Eventually the two likeminded strangers meet by chance at a bar within the hotel, and after striking up a platonic acquaintance, spend the remainder of Bobs stay exploring the dazzling landscape of a glowing and illuminated Tokyo, helping one another to endure their shared struggle with loneliness. The film explores numerous themes of friendship, desire, ambition, alienation, and most of all loneliness, making it a story that has and will remain relatable for eternity. Though done with noticeable and eloquent simplicity, the impact of the story, and the emotions provoked through it, are assuredly inescapable. A director who is know for letting scenes speak through music, Coppola curated the perfect hazy, nostalgic and dreamlike soundtrack to accompany the electrifying film, featuring artists such as Air, The Jesus and Mary Chain, and Phoenix. The pairing of these happy-sad yet enchanting songs brings an added layer of eeriness but captivation to the film, that contrast the gleaming back drop and powerful performances flawlessly. No stranger to the style over substance criticism, it would be easy to view this story as an uneventful and inconclusive film that follows two strangers and their exploration of Tokyo at a very slow pace. Yet, its not just the visuals, or music, or characters that draw you in, its the overall mood. The feelings and emotions. Whilst the style is unmistakably the factor that grabs your attention, the substance is what keeps it, and this film exceeds in compelling you to stay, inviting you to follow the journey of two relatable and honest characters. Focused on two strangers' fears and their fate, it is easy to forget about your own. The pure escapism yet absolute relatable-ness that Lost in Translation offers solidifies it as a universal and everlasting film, that will unquestionably be adored forever. Before The Magic Roundabout closes for good, it has announced one last theme: Fiesta Del Magia. As the demolition of Old Street roundabout in London has been delayed until January 1st 2019, the venue will stay open a few months longer and is transforming itself a final time, this time taking inspiration from Latin America. The Magic Roundabout With a launch party on Thursday 11th October, The Magic Roundabout will be turned into a Latin-American-style town; the dance floor will become the town square with a town bodega and onsite chapel added alongside. Paying homage to Frida Kahlo, the cocktail bars decor will be based on the bold, blue Mexican home of the artist and will, of course, include plenty of art. The Fiesta Del Magia's launch party is on Thursday 11th October. For more information, visit The Magic Roundabout's website here. The Magic Roundabout, Fiesta Del Magia launch party The University of Plymouth Students Union (UPSU) has suspended their Conservative Society after photos emerged showing Tory students wearing t-shirts strewn with offensive messages. Posing proudly with a Hitler-style moustache, communist symbols and F**K the NHS, a group of students have caused a scandal. One student, identified by The Mirror as Daniel Phillips-OLeary, has F**K the NHS scrawled on his t-shirt alongside a Communist symbol. Another, believed to be Ross Horton, has the word JUDE across his chest - German for Jew - above a smudged Star of David. Hortons double hand symbol could be the white power symbol which is used by white supremacists, according to The Mirror. In a statement UPSU said: The Students Union is aware of the incident regarding one of our societies and have taken prompt action by instigating an internal investigation and suspending the society in question. Whilst incidents like these are extremely rare, we take them very seriously. We totally condemn behaviour of this kind along with all forms of racism and anti-semitism. We obviously cannot comment further on the matter until our internal investigations are concluded. A University of Plymouth spokesperson said: The University does not tolerate anti-semitic or racist behaviour under any circumstance and will take disciplinary action in line with our procedures in the event of incidents such as this. We value our partnership working with the Students' Union and are grateful for their quick and responsible action in this case. Unfortunately, The Content Is Not Here You have arrived at this page because the page or post you were looking for no longer exists. Please check our main navigation pages for other content: Home Page NAPANEE, Ontario, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VIVO Cannabis Inc. (TSXV: VIVO, OTCQX: VVCIF) (VIVO or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has made a $5 million strategic investment in Westleaf Cannabis Inc. (Westleaf), which is intended to be used by Westleaf to advance the roll out of their cannabis retail operations across Canada. Westleafs mission is to provide a sophisticated and differentiated approach to customer engagement, appealing to customers through music and cannabis culture. Scott Hurd, President and CEO of Westleaf, said, Our vertically integrated strategy, innovative retail concepts and high caliber retail locations differentiate us from our competitors in the cannabis industry. This investment by VIVO and the associated supply agreement are a strong endorsement of our strategy and team and are pivotal steps in advancing our position as a premium cannabis retailer in Canada. VIVOs reputation for delivering high-quality, trusted and innovative cannabis products and their commitment to creating adult-use brands that resonate with consumers aligns well with Westleafs innovative retail concept and strategy. Supply Agreement Westleaf has entered into a multi-year supply agreement with VIVO under which VIVO will supply cannabis to Westleafs multiple retail locations, subject to regulatory approvals. The supply agreement provides Westleaf access to VIVOs portfolio of engaging adult-use brands, FIRESIDE, Lumina and Canna Farms, as well as the option of creating in-house brands powered by VIVOs high-quality cannabis products. VIVO is committed to providing high-quality products for the Canadian recreational cannabis market. We continue to build our presence in the adult-use market with this strategic investment in Westleaf, which impressed us with its innovative approach to cannabis retail marketing, stated Barry Fishman, CEO of VIVO. With our strong cash position of approximately $100 million, VIVO will continue to pursue opportunities across the full value chain. We look forward to working with the Westleaf team to bring our premium products to market. VIVO Strategic Investment VIVO has invested CDN$5 million in exchange for 5,882,353 units of Westleaf, with each unit consisting of one Westleaf common share (each, a Common Share) and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant being a Warrant), at a price of $0.85 per unit. Each Warrant will entitle VIVO to acquire one Common Share at a price of $1.30 for a period of 24 months following the closing of the investment. Subject to certain conditions, Westleaf will have the right, on not less than ten days prior written notice to VIVO, to accelerate the expiry of the Warrants at any time if the ten day volume weighted average trading price of the Common Shares on any public stock exchange is greater than $1.80. About Westleaf Cannabis Westleaf is building a vertically integrated cannabis company focused on innovative retail experiences, engaging cannabis brands, and premium cannabis production. Westleaf is developing a national retail footprint for its retail concept Prairie Records, which leverages the instinctual tie of recreational cannabis and music and redefines the cannabis purchasing experience. Westleaf is constructing state-of-the-art cannabis production facilities in Alberta and Saskatchewan. About VIVO Cannabis VIVO, based in Napanee, Ontario, is recognized for trusted, high-quality products and services. It holds production and sales licences from Health Canada and operates world-class indoor cultivation facilities with proprietary plant-growing technology. VIVO has a collection of premium brands targeting unique customer segments, including Beacon Medical, FIRESIDE, Canna Farms and Lumina. In August 2018, VIVO acquired Canna Farms Limited, a premium cannabis company based in Hope, British Columbia. Canna Farms was B.C.s first Licensed Producer and has many years of craft cultivation experience and expertise, as well as a significant patient base and positive cash flow. VIVO is significantly expanding its production capacity and pursuing partnership and product development opportunities domestically, as well as in select international markets, including Germany and Australia. In addition, VIVO also operates Harvest Medicine, a patient-centric and highly scalable network of specialty medical cannabis clinics. Harvest Medicine provides best-in-class education and support to over 15,000 patients in its clinics and via its free telemedicine platform. VIVO has a healthy balance sheet with approximately $100 million in cash and is well-positioned to accelerate the growth of its business, in Canada and internationally. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Barry Fishman (CEO and Director) Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the use of proceeds by Westleaf, Westleafs proposed strategy to become a premium adult-use cannabis retailer in Canada and its innovative retail concept, and the supply of cannabis by VIVO to Westleaf pursuant to the supply agreement and VIVOs future opportunities outlook. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based on certain assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from current assumptions and expectations, including that: Westleaf may not be able to effectively operate a chain of cannabis retail stores in Canada; that it may not become a successful premium adult-use cannabis retailer; that regulations may restrict or prohibit the supply of cannabis by VIVO to Westleaf; that cannabis marketing regulations may impede the execution of Westleafs retail strategy; and other factors beyond the Companys control. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. No assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur or, if they do occur, what benefits the Company will obtain from them. Readers are urged to consider these factors, and the more extensive risk factors included in the Companys annual information form dated April 30, 2018 and other continuous disclosure filings, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any such forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. When Christine Blasey Ford came forward to report that President Trumps Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh, sexually assaulted her in 1982, you could cue the response: Why didnt she speak out then? Why didnt she go to the police? Theres a long, long list of reasons why a woman wouldnt speak out even now, and no doubt it was even more difficult in the pre-Anita Hill world of 1982. I cant speak for everyone who has faced sexual assault, but I can speak for myself. 1. At first, I didnt know that what happened to me was a crime. My first assault occurred in college, 18 years ago. He lived in my dorm. I knew what rape was and didnt think Id experienced that. But I didnt know that sexual violations without consent that arent sexual intercourse are also a crime. 2. I couldnt talk about it. Even now, I cant describe what happened to my therapist in any detail. What happened involved body parts that are too private to discuss with those closest to me let alone the police, a judge or a newspaper. Talking about a past trauma can be re-traumatizing. Some of us cope by staying silent. 3. I blamed myself. I physically resisted for a while and then I froze and it happened. At the time, I told myself that if I really didnt want it, I wouldve kept fighting. I didnt know that freezing is a normal human response in a traumatic situation. 4. Afterward, I wanted him to be my boyfriend. My therapist said this was my way of trying to improve the situation. If he was my boyfriend, then what happened could be reinterpreted as meaningful. Its a perverse response, but its apparently not uncommon. 5. I know someone who reported a rape to the police and had a traumatic experience of testifying in court and getting cross-examined by her rapists lawyer in front of her rapist. And then the rapist was found innocent. I dont want that to happen to me. 6. Now, 18 years later, the man who assaulted me is an instructor of neurology at a prominent childrens hospital. He did a terrible thing to me, once, nearly two decades ago. Should I attempt to ruin his career because of it? The answer to that is: I dont know. If I thought he was still assaulting women and my speaking out would contribute to making him stop, I would in a heartbeat. What he did to me 18 years ago still hurts so much that I would only revisit that assault and expose him publicly if there was a very clear purpose to doing so. I expect if I did attempt to expose him, Id be attacked. People would say that it wasnt an assault because I wanted him to be my boyfriend afterward. They would say I wanted it because I froze and stopped fighting. There are good odds I wouldnt be believed. Ill tell you this: Like Christine Blasey Ford, if the man who assaulted me was nominated for the U.S. Supreme Court, Id speak up. I dont think a man who violates a woman that way is qualified to rule on cases of violence against women, or any other aspect of their well-being. I dont think he could be impartial. When a victim of sexual crimes comes forward, even if its decades after the crime took place, we shouldnt use her past silence against her as evidence to discredit her. That urge to discredit is exactly why it takes so long for some to come forward in the first place. Jill Richardson is pursuing a PhD in sociology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This column was distributed by OtherWords.org. English Dutch Papendrecht, 3 October 2018 Royal Boskalis Westminster N.V. (Boskalis) announces that its subsidiary SMIT Salvage acquired two five-year marine salvage contracts to serve as the exclusive marine salvage and engineering support contractor for the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), the division of the U.S. Navy responsible for engineering, building, buying and maintaining Navy ships and submarines. SMIT Salvage will provide the U.S. Navy with marine salvage, salvage-related towing, ocean engineering and towage services in the event of an emergency or incident in two of the three geographic zones in the world as defined by the U.S. Navy. SMIT Salvage held a contract for one zone covering the area between the Suez Canal and the dateline - the imaginary line down the Pacific Ocean on which the calendar day begins and ends - for a number of periods totaling more than 30 years, which it was able to renew. In addition, the contract for a second zone between the dateline and the U.S. West Coast was successfully acquired. With the award of the third and final contract to its U.S. partner Donjon Marine, the companies are able to provide worldwide marine salvage support to the U.S. Navy. SMIT Salvage and Donjon Marine established the joint venture Donjon-SMIT to provide salvage services to vessels trading in U.S. waters under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA-90) and related U.S. state regulations. For further information Investor relations: Martijn L.D. Schuttevaer ir@boskalis.com Press: Arno Schikker press@boskalis.com T +31 78 6969310 Royal Boskalis Westminster N.V. is a leading global services provider operating in the dredging, maritime infrastructure and maritime services sectors. The company provides creative and innovative all-round solutions to infrastructural challenges in the maritime, coastal and delta regions of the world with services including the construction and maintenance of ports and waterways, land reclamation, coastal defense and riverbank protection. In addition, Boskalis offers a wide variety of marine services and contracting for the oil and gas sector and offshore wind industry as well as salvage solutions. Furthermore, Boskalis has a number of strategic partnerships in harbor towage and terminal services (Kotug Smit Towage, Keppel Smit Towage, Saam Smit Towage and Smit Lamnalco). With a versatile fleet of more than 900 vessels and floating equipment and 10,700 employees, including associated companies, Boskalis operates in 90 countries across six continents. This press release can also be found on our website www.boskalis.com. TORONTO, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gran Colombia Gold Corp. (TSX: GCM, OTCQX: TPRFF) announced today that its 2018 drilling program at its Segovia Operations has identified a new structure at the Sandra K mine, interpreted as a splay off the Techo Vein and termed the 6640 Vein. The Company also provided an update on further assay results from the ongoing underground diamond drilling program at its Segovia Operations. To date, the Company has completed 128 holes at Segovia totaling approximately 16,200 meters, representing 81% of its initially planned 20,000 meters to be drilled in 2018. As announced on August 7, 2018, the Company has since added another approximately 10,000 meters of directional drilling to its 2018 program, expected to commence in early November, to follow up on the high-grade results from the ongoing channel sampling program at its El Silencio mine and extend the north, middle and south ore-shoots down-plunge with the objective of testing extensions another 200 meters below the currently delineated resource. Serafino Iacono, Executive Co-Chairman of Gran Colombia, commented, As we look toward our opportunities for further production and cash flow growth in 2019 and beyond, we are pleased with the continuing high-grade results from our ongoing drilling program at our Segovia Operations aimed at increasing the confidence in our mineral resources at our three producing mines and encouraged by the initial results from our step-out drilling at the Cristales Vein, one of the other 24 known vein systems in our Segovia title which has the potential to become a future mining operation." Segovia Drilling Update Gran Colombia currently has four diamond drill rigs in operation at Segovia, with three rigs carrying out resource definition within the underground developments of the Providencia, Sandra K and El Silencio mines and one drill rig operating from surface at Campo Alegre targeting the down-dip extension of the Cristales Vein to the north of the El Silencio mine. In-fill drilling at Providencia was planned to test the Providencia vein system to the west of the current mine development. Multiple high gold grades were intersected from two underground stations in the ongoing drilling program on the main vein system with maximum grades of 110.96 g/t Au and 80.8 g/t Ag over 2.34 meters. In-fill drilling at Sandra K was planned to delineate and extend down-dip one of the main ore-shoots outlined by mining within the existing operation. Multiple high gold grades were generated from 23 drill holes (2,394 meters) drilled from underground in the ongoing drilling program on the main vein system with maximum grades of 17.18 g/t Au with 33.6 g/t Ag over 0.71 metres on the Sandra K Techo Vein, and 175.15 g/t Au with 1,223.0 g/t Ag over 0.50 metres on the 6640 Vein, which is interpreted as a new splay off the Techo Vein. In-fill drilling at El Silencio continues to test the down-plunge extension of the main ore-shoot located at the northern end of the mine. As the ongoing underground drilling program on the main vein system commenced recently, only two high gold grade intersections have been returned so far, with maximum grades of 57.58 g/t Au with 441.1 g/t Ag over 0.46 metres on a new vein that is interpreted to be a splay off the Manto Vein. Surface exploration drilling on the Cristales Vein was primarily intended to extend down-dip the vein currently mined close to surface by artisanal miners under contract with Gran Colombia. The Cristales Vein is one of the most prospective structures within the 24 secondary veins known but not explored systematically within Segovias RPP-140 title. To date, seven drill holes totaling approximately 1,990 meters have been completed of the ongoing program, with an encouraging good grade of 7.58 g/t Au with 39.2 g/t Ag over 0.51 meters in one drill hole. All the other drill holes returned low grades. Key Highlights and Intercepts Since Our June 18, 2018 Press Release In-fill drilling at the Providencia Mine was successful in outlining a new high-grade zone to the west of and near the high-grade orebody that is currently in production. The ongoing drilling at Providencia is aimed to better delineate and further extend this zone to the west, which offers the potential for another significant phase of resource growth at our flagship mine in Segovia. The high-grade gold mineralized intercepts associated to this new zone confirm the higher-grade mineralization at depth, which could have a positive impact, increasing both production and mine life at Providencia. In-fill drilling at Sandra K was successful in delineating and further extending down-plunge one of main ore shoots outlined by mining in the upper levels of the existing operation. This orebody remains open at depth and offers the potential for additional resource growth. This program was also successful in delineating a new structure termed the 6640 Vein and interpreted as a splay off the Techo Vein, which shows high gold and silver grades. In-fill drilling at the El Silencio mine was successful in delineating a new structure, interpreted as a splay off or hanging-wall structure of the Manto Vein and termed the HW1-VM Vein. The Providencia and Sandra K drill programs continue to increase the confidence in the geological model of both ore bodies through increased drill density. Although most of the intercepts at the Cristales Vein returned low grades, the ongoing drilling program was successful in extending 200 meters down-dip the vein currently mined close to surface. Furthermore, the only intercept with a good grade points out a potential new mineralized zone outside the known down-plunge extensions of the ore-shoots currently mined in the existing artisanal operation. A phase of follow-up drilling is being designed for later in 2018 to test the extent of this intercept. The table below lists the key intercepts from the 2018 drilling program since the last press release issued on June 18, 2018: Hole From (m) To (m) Width (m) Vein Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Providencia Mine (Attachment 1) PV-IU-123* 63.35 63.69 0.34 Providencia 17.81 41.7 PV-IU-124* 72.36 74.70 2.34 Providencia 110.96 80.8 including 72.36 73.30 0.60 Providencia 240.60 198.1 PV-IU-140* 72.00 73.30 1.30 Providencia 21.84 22.9 PV-IU-142* 46.46 47.37 0.91 Providencia 55.92 49.2 Hole From (m) To (m) Width (m) Vein Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Sandra K Mine (Attachments 2 and 3) SK-IU-003* 14.20 14.90 0.70 6640 Vein 49.81 238.6 SK-IU-005* 21.52 22.73 1.21 6640 Vein 19.98 90.4 SK-IU-006* 63.47 64.73 1.26 Sandra K Techo 10.79 151.8 SK-IU-007* 25.50 26.0 0.50 6640 Vein 175.15 1,223.0 SK-IU-010* 17.94 18.28 0.34 6640 Vein 79.90 3,319.0 SK-IU-010* 117.05 118.30 1.25 Sandra K Techo 15.75 96.2 SK-IU-011* 10.60 11.00 0.40 6640 Vein 39.53 1122.0 69.89 72.19 2.30 Sandra K Techo 12.28 114.9 SK-IU-012* 117.40 120.45 3.05 Sandra K Techo 11.98 61.2 SK-IU-013* 105.60 110.78 5.18 Sandra K Techo 7.72 25.9 including 105.60 108.60 3.00 Sandra K Techo 13.13 38.2 SK-IU-016* 69.76 72.30 2.54 Sandra K Techo 9.11 43.4 SK-IU-017* 6.28 6.68 0.40 6640 Vein 9.86 218.1 SK-IU-018* 80.80 81.70 0.90 Sandra K Techo 8.0 51.3 SK-IU-019* 94.42 98.08 3.66 Sandra K Techo 7.34 45.3 including 94.42 95.50 1.08 Sandra K Techo 14.89 100.1 SK-IU-020* 90.25 93.95 3.70 Sandra K Techo 8.54 37.7 SK-IU-022* 59.68 60.39 0.71 Sandra K Techo 17.18 33.6 El Silencio Mine (Attachment 4) ES-IU-040* 60.14 60.60 0.46 HW1 Manto Vein 57.58 441.1 ES-IU-041* 84.36 85.60 1.24 HW1 Manto Vein 29.85 25.5 Cristales Vein (Attachment 5) CR-ES-005 356.91 357.42 0.51 Cristales Vein 7.58 39.2 * Denotes underground drill holes. The underground holes were drilled at -6 to -58 degrees from the horizontal. Sample grades over 7.0 g/t Au reported. Grades are for quartz vein intersections and are length-weighted composites. The width is the sample length and is not necessarily the true width of the vein. All gold and silver grades are uncut and are not diluted to a minimum mining width. Abbreviations: HW: hanging wall vein. Please refer also to the attached illustrative maps related to the Providencia, Sandra K, El Silencio and Cristales drilling programs. Qualified Person Dr. Stewart D. Redwood, PhD, FIMMM, Senior Consulting Geologist to the Company, is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure or Mineral Projects and prepared or reviewed the preparation of the scientific and technical information in this press release. Verification included a review of the quality assurance and quality control samples, and review of the applicable assay databases and assay certificates. Quality Assurance and Quality Control The Segovia samples were prepared and assayed by SGS Laboratories Ltd (ISO 9001:2008) at their laboratory in Medellin, Colombia. Gold was assayed by 30 g fire assay with atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) finish. Samples over 10.0 g/t gold were re-assayed by 30 g fire assay with gravimetric finish. Silver was assayed by aqua regia digestion and AAS finish. Silver samples above 500 g/t were re-assayed by 30 g fire assay with gravimetric finish. Blank, standard and duplicate samples were routinely inserted for quality assurance and quality control. Acquisition of Additional Approximately 2% Interest in Sandspring Resources Ltd. (Sandspring) Gran Colombia also announced today that it completed the purchase of an additional 4,000,000 common shares in Sandspring (TSX-V: SSP, OTCQX: SSPXF) yesterday at a price of CA$0.25 per share in a private transaction (the Transaction) for total cash consideration of approximately US$772,000. The additional shares, which are subject to a hold period expiring November 21, 2018, were acquired for investment purposes and Gran Colombia has no present intention to dispose of or acquire further securities of Sandspring, although the Company may in the future acquire or dispose of securities of Sandspring, through the market, privately or otherwise, as circumstances or market conditions warrant. Through completion of the Transaction, Gran Colombia has increased its holdings in Sandspring to an aggregate of 35,000,000 common shares and 16,000,000 share purchase warrants. Each share purchase warrant entitles the Company to purchase one additional share of Sandspring at CA$0.40 for a period of sixty (60) months. The 35,000,000 common shares represent approximately 16.69% of the outstanding common shares of Sandspring. Assuming that Gran Colombia but no other warrant holder exercises and holds its share purchase warrants, when combined with its existing ownership, Gran Colombia would have control and direction over 51,000,000 common shares representing approximately 22.60% of the then outstanding common shares of Sandspring. Copies of the early warning report filed by Gran Colombia are available under Sandsprings profile on SEDAR ( www.sedar.com ) or by contacting Gran Colombia directly at the address below. About Gran Colombia Gold Corp. Gran Colombia is a Canadian-based mid-tier gold producer with its primary focus in Colombia where it is currently the largest underground gold and silver producer with several mines in operation at its Segovia and Marmato Operations. Gran Colombia is continuing to focus on exploration, expansion and modernization activities at its high-grade Segovia Operations. Additional information on Gran Colombia can be found on its website at www.grancolombiagold.com and by reviewing its profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com . Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information", which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to production guidance and anticipated business plans or strategies, including exploration programs and mineral resources and reserves. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Gran Colombia to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements are described under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Information Form dated as of March 27, 2018 and Managements Discussion and Analysis dated as of August 14, 2018, both of which are available for view on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this press release and Gran Colombia disclaims, other than as required by law, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, results, future events, circumstances, or if management's estimates or opinions should change, or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For Further Information, Contact: Mike Davies Chief Financial Officer (416) 360-4653 investorrelations@grancolombiagold.com Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ce5dac34-896a-4b80-aeda-6739eddb0c5f http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c9f18690-26d9-4db5-9f62-4e386fceb4a8 http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e478fcdd-ff39-4538-9b9a-a43e37cff20d http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/225b3926-314b-47f1-85e0-8814e54c0e3f http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fbadd12c-4387-45e9-bfe6-5e8c878df990 Montreal, CA (H4T1V6) Today Clear this evening then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 8C. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Clear this evening then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 2C. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. NEW YORK, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In new independent research reports released early this morning, Market Source Research released its latest key findings for all current investors, traders, and shareholders of IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones S.A. (NYSE:IRS), Anixter International Inc. (NYSE:AXE), RPM International Inc. (NYSE:RPM), DSW Inc. (NYSE:DSW), Bemis Company, Inc. (NYSE:BMS), and New Jersey Resources Corporation (NYSE:NJR), including updated fundamental summaries, consolidated fiscal reporting, and fully-qualified certified analyst research. Complimentary Access: Research Reports Full copies of recently published reports are available to readers at the links below. IRS DOWNLOAD: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=IRS AXE DOWNLOAD: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=AXE RPM DOWNLOAD: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=RPM DSW DOWNLOAD: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=DSW BMS DOWNLOAD: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=BMS NJR DOWNLOAD: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=NJR (You may have to copy and paste the link into your browser and hit the [ENTER] key) The new research reports from Market Source Research, available for free download at the links above, examine IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones S.A. (NYSE:IRS), Anixter International Inc. (NYSE:AXE), RPM International Inc. (NYSE:RPM), DSW Inc. (NYSE:DSW), Bemis Company, Inc. (NYSE:BMS), and New Jersey Resources Corporation (NYSE:NJR) on a fundamental level and outlines the overall demand for their products and services in addition to an in-depth review of the business strategy, management discussion, and overall direction going forward. Several excerpts from the recently released reports are available to today's readers below. ----------------------------------------- Important Notice: the following excerpts are not designed to be standalone summaries and as such, important information may be missing from these samples. Please download the entire research report, free of charge, to ensure you are reading all relevant material information. All information in this release was accessed October 1st, 2018. Percentage calculations are performed after rounding. All amounts in millions (MM), except per share amounts. ----------------------------------------- IRSA INVERSIONES Y REPRESENTACIONES S.A. (IRS) REPORT OVERVIEW IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones S.A's Recent Financial Performance For the three months ended March 31st, 2018 vs March 31st, 2017, IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones S.A reported revenue of $1,153.19MM vs $1,173.84MM (down 1.76%) and analysts estimated basic earnings per share $0.43 vs $0.08 (up 447.72%). For the twelve months ended June 30th, 2017 vs June 30th, 2016, IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones S.A reported revenue of $4,798.93MM vs $2,852.53MM (up 68.23%) and analysts estimated basic earnings per share $3.40 vs -$1.06. Analysts expect earnings to be released on November 14th, 2018. The report will be for the fiscal period ending September 30th, 2018. The reported EPS for the same quarter last year was $0.54. To read the full IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones S.A. (IRS) report, download it here: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=IRS ----------------------------------------- ANIXTER INTERNATIONAL INC. (AXE) REPORT OVERVIEW Anixter International's Recent Financial Performance For the three months ended June 30th, 2018 vs June 30th, 2017, Anixter International reported revenue of $2,137.90MM vs $2,001.40MM (up 6.82%) and analysts estimated basic earnings per share $1.03 vs $1.19 (down 13.45%). For the twelve months ended December 31st, 2017 vs December 31st, 2016, Anixter International reported revenue of $7,927.40MM vs $7,622.80MM (up 4.00%) and analysts estimated basic earnings per share $3.24 vs $3.61 (down 10.25%). Analysts expect earnings to be released on October 23rd, 2018. The report will be for the fiscal period ending September 30th, 2018. Reported EPS for the same quarter last year was $1.30. The estimated EPS forecast for the next fiscal year is $6.50 and is expected to report on January 29th, 2019. To read the full Anixter International Inc. (AXE) report, download it here: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=AXE ----------------------------------------- RPM INTERNATIONAL INC. (RPM) REPORT OVERVIEW RPM International's Recent Financial Performance For the three months ended May 31st, 2018 vs May 31st, 2017, RPM International reported revenue of $1,558.16MM vs $1,492.85MM (up 4.37%) and analysts estimated basic earnings per share $0.66 vs $0.97 (down 31.96%). For the twelve months ended May 31st, 2018 vs May 31st, 2017, RPM International reported revenue of $5,321.64MM vs $4,958.18MM (up 7.33%) and analysts estimated basic earnings per share $2.55 vs $1.37 (up 86.13%). Analysts expect earnings to be released on October 3rd, 2018. The report will be for the fiscal period ending August 31st, 2018. Reported EPS for the same quarter last year was $0.86. The estimated EPS forecast for the next fiscal year is $3.69 and is expected to report on July 18th, 2019. To read the full RPM International Inc. (RPM) report, download it here: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=RPM ----------------------------------------- DSW INC. (DSW) REPORT OVERVIEW DSW's Recent Financial Performance For the three months ended July 31st, 2018 vs July 31st, 2017, DSW reported revenue of $795.27MM vs $683.01MM (up 16.44%) and basic earnings per share -$0.48 vs $0.36. For the twelve months ended January 31st, 2018 vs January 31st, 2017, DSW reported revenue of $2,799.79MM vs $2,711.44MM (up 3.26%) and analysts estimated basic earnings per share $0.84 vs $1.53 (down 45.10%). Analysts expect earnings to be released on November 20th, 2018. The report will be for the fiscal period ending October 31st, 2018. The reported EPS for the same quarter last year was $0.45. The estimated EPS forecast for the next fiscal year is $1.91 and is expected to report on March 12th, 2019. To read the full DSW Inc. (DSW) report, download it here: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=DSW ----------------------------------------- BEMIS COMPANY, INC. (BMS) REPORT OVERVIEW Bemis' Recent Financial Performance For the three months ended June 30th, 2018 vs June 30th, 2017, Bemis reported revenue of $1,033.30MM vs $1,012.10MM (up 2.09%) and analysts estimated basic earnings per share $0.51 vs $0.31 (up 64.52%). For the twelve months ended December 31st, 2017 vs December 31st, 2016, Bemis reported revenue of $4,046.20MM vs $4,004.40MM (up 1.04%) and analysts estimated basic earnings per share $1.03 vs $2.51 (down 58.96%). Analysts expect earnings to be released on October 25th, 2018. The report will be for the fiscal period ending September 30th, 2018. The reported EPS for the same quarter last year was $0.70. The estimated EPS forecast for the next fiscal year is $3.03 and is expected to report on February 7th, 2019. To read the full Bemis Company, Inc. (BMS) report, download it here: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=BMS ----------------------------------------- NEW JERSEY RESOURCES CORPORATION (NJR) REPORT OVERVIEW New Jersey Resources' Recent Financial Performance For the three months ended June 30th, 2018 vs June 30th, 2017, New Jersey Resources reported revenue of $543.44MM vs $457.52MM (up 18.78%) and analysts estimated basic earnings per share -$0.16 vs $0.22. For the twelve months ended September 30th, 2017 vs September 30th, 2016, New Jersey Resources reported revenue of $2,268.62MM vs $1,880.91MM (up 20.61%) and analysts estimated basic earnings per share $1.53 vs $1.53 (unchanged). Analysts expect earnings to be released on November 20th, 2018. The report will be for the fiscal period ending September 30th, 2018. The reported EPS for the same quarter last year was -$0.14. The estimated EPS forecast for the next fiscal year is $2.01 and is expected to report on November 20th, 2018. To read the full New Jersey Resources Corporation (NJR) report, download it here: http://MarketSourceResearch.com/register/?so=NJR ----------------------------------------- ABOUT MARKET SOURCE RESEARCH Market Source Research delivers the key research reports that helps serious investors, registered brokers, professional traders, and personal investment advisers find reliable information in today's markets. Market Source Research's team is comprised of financial professionals, many of which hold Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designations and FINRA BrokerCheck certifications. Whether identifying emerging trends, or discovering new opportunity, the team at Market Source Research is dedicated to providing accurate, informative, and objective content that's ahead of the curve. With insights on individual companies as well as sectors, readers get the industry's best available combination of big-picture perspective as well as granular detail. 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For republishing permissions, please contact a partner network manager at partnership@MarketSourceResearch.com. CFA and Chartered Financial Analyst are registered trademarks owned by CFA Institute. FINRA, BrokerCheck, and CRD are registered trademarks owned by Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. ALL-STATE RECOGNITION Kensy Felix, a freshman at Edmund Burke Academy, placed sixth in the Georgia Independent School Association AA cross country meet at Middle Georgia State College out of 60 runners. This earned her All-State recognition. We're sorry! This content is only available to online subscribers. Please login below or Subscribe today!... Bears head to playoffs, face Mary Persons The Bears capped off their regular season last week in the Bear Den with a 42-7 win over Richmond Academy and will now make their 15th consecutive trip to the state playoffs this Friday. The Region 2-AAA number 3 seed, Mary Persons Bulldogs, will travel to Waynesboro to face Burke... NEED TICKETS? Bears fans have two ways to purchase their round one playoff tickets this week. You can purchase online at www.gofan.co (not.com). Use the search bar to search for Burke County. Tickets are $8 each plus an online service fee. Tickets can be purchased at the gate on game night for... BURKE OUTDOORS Austyn Lee, 8-year-old daughter of Jackson and Neely Lee, killed her first deer Sunday, Nov. 7. She took down the 8-pointer while hunting with her father. Austyn is a third-grader at Edmund Burke Academy. We're sorry! This content is only available to online subscribers. Please login below or Subscribe today!... VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ATLAS ENGINEERED PRODUCTS LTD. (Atlas or the Company) (TSX-V: AEP), a leading supplier of trusses, engineered wood products and building components, is pleased to announce that it has completed the acquisition of all the issued and outstanding shares of Coastal Windows Ltd. (Coastal Windows) of Nanaimo, British Columbia. Atlas paid a total of $650,000, consisting of 869,565 Atlas common shares having an agreed value of $400,000 and $125,001 in cash issued and paid on closing, and an additional $124,999 payable within 30 days after closing. The agreed value of the Atlas common shares issued on closing was based on the 20-day volume weighted average price of Atlas common shares prior to signing the purchase agreement, being $0.46 per share. Coastal revenues for the twelve months ended May 31, 2018* were approximately $1.7 million with adjusted EBITDA of $98,000 and is expected to have net working capital of approximately $250,000 at closing. The assets of Coastal included in the transaction consist of equipment having an independently appraised value of $246,000 and intangible assets consisting of use licenses and permits related to the windows manufactured by Coastal having an internally assessed value of approximately $150,000. Atlas will be implementing measures over the coming year that it expects will drive stronger gross margins and profits for the Coastal Windows business unit. Mr. Guy Champagne, President of Atlas stated, The Coastal acquisition is a very important element in the long-term strategy being executed by Atlas. Coastal has perfected a small-footprint and high-quality window manufacturing operation that Atlas will replicate in all its operating regions across Canada. Eventually, Atlas will offer all of its customers the option of filling the window openings in the prefabricated walls that Atlas supplies with Coastals high-quality windows. This will eventually provide Atlas with a greater wallet share of the construction projects it is able to supply. This acquisition builds on our long-term commitment to provide our construction industry partners with the full array of components and assemblies they might require for their projects from design to lockup. The current CEO of Atlas, Mr. Hadi Abassi, was the sole shareholder of Coastal. Due to the non-arms-length nature of this transaction, it was reviewed and unanimously approved by the Atlas Board of Directors prior to closing. About Atlas Engineered Products Ltd. Atlas Engineered Products Ltd. is a leading supplier of trusses and engineered wood products. Atlas was formed over 18 years ago and operates manufacturing and distribution facilities in British Columbia, Ontario and Alberta to meet the needs of residential and commercial builders. Atlas has expert design and engineering teams, multiple-shift state-of-the-art truss manufacturing operations, and large inventories of engineered beam and flooring components. Atlas aims to grow its base of business across Canada by pursuing an aggressive acquisition and consolidation and product diversification strategy. Atlas will bring its construction industry partners across Canada unparalleled excellence in service, product, and support and is committed to supplying them with the full array of components and assemblies they might require for their projects from design to lockup. For further information please contact: Atlas Engineered Products Ltd. Guy Champagne, President Phone: 1-250-754-1400 Email: info@atlasep.ca Unit 102, 6551 Aulds Road Nanaimo, BC V9S 5X9 www.atlasengineeredproducts.com For investor relations please contact: Rob Gamley Phone: 1-604-689-7422 Email: rob@contactfinancial.com Contact Financial Corp. 810 609 Granville St. Vancouver, BC V7Y 1G5 * The Companys news release dated August 2, 2018 incorrectly referred to the twelve month period ended June 30, 2017. Readers are cautioned that the financial results of Coastal Windows Ltd. for the twelve months ended May 31, 2017 were prepared by management, and have not been audited or reviewed by an independent auditor. EBITDA and adjusted EBITA are measures not recognized under IFRS. However, Atlas management believes that most shareholders, creditors, other stakeholders and investment analysts prefer to have these measures included as reported measures of operating performance, a proxy for cash flow, and to facilitate valuation analysis. EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest income, interest expense, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as net income less total interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization and non-cash charges for share based compensation. Management believes EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA are useful measures that facilitate period to-period operating comparisons EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA do not have standardized meanings prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Readers are cautioned that EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA are not alternatives to measures determined in accordance with IFRS and should not, on their own, be construed as indicators of performance, cash flow or profitability. Forward Looking Information Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements. These statements reflect managements current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Companys control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the Company including those to be described in the Filing Statement filed by the Company on www.sedar.com. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information. NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. MBABANE As the tourism industry eagerly awaits the relaxation of Visa travel requirements and the abolition of affidavits for tourists travelling with children into South Africa tourists coming into the kingdom continue to dip. During the eighth month of 2018, international visitor arrivals to the Kingdom of Eswatini declined by 3.9 per cent when compared to the same month in 2017. Occasioning this lacklustre performance were weak arrivals figures from all major source regions barring the Americas (4.4 per cent). Arrivals from Africa (-4.1 per cent), Australasia (-0.8 per cent) and Europe (-3.3 per cent) contracted by single digits, while the situation was more acute for arrivals from the Middle East (-33.6 per cent) where the level of decline reached double digits. The Swaziland Tourism Authority (STA) reported that arrivals from the African region struggled during the month under review as the kingdoms leading source markets, Mozambique (-10.9 per cent) and South Africa (-4.6 per cent), posted negative returns. High Fuel prices remained relatively high during month, which meant that South Africans still had to pay more for each kilometre travelled, said STA Research Departments Bongani Hlophe. It was pointed out that news of the South African economy slipping into a technical recession further worsened the existing pressures on the propensity to engage in luxury expenditures like holidays. Elsewhere in the region, the completion of the Kosi Bay-Maputo road significantly cut the travel time between Maputo and the KwaZulu Natal (KZN) province. The probable implication of the foregoing development being a potential loss of both the overnight and transit visitors currently travelling through Eswatini for business and leisure purposes en-route to Maputo or KZN, Hlophe explained. Other markets in the region that experienced a slowdown in growth included Botswana (-20.1 per cent), Lesotho (-41.3 per cent), Kenya (-0.1 per cent) and Malawi (-10.3 per cent). Depressed Arrivals from the Middle East region declined by 33.6 per cent mainly due to the depressed performance of arrivals from the countrys largest visitor generating market in the region; Israel (-34.8 per cent). Other markets in this region also failed to post positive gains, notwithstanding the oil market driven recovery of the economy of the region and abating geopolitical risks. During the month of August, the aggregate performance of the Americas was robust, as arrival figures from the region increased by 4.4 per cent with resilient American arrivals (2.7 per cent) the principal cause for positive aggregate outturn. Average airline fares declined during the month reviewed, which eased the costs of holiday travel within and without the borders of the country for most Americans. SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Calix, Inc. (NYSE: CALX) today announced that Brad Moline, Founder, President and CEO for Nebraska-based ALLO Communications will deliver a keynote presentation at Calix ConneXions 2018 . Brad brings decades of experience and a unique background having founded his own communications company, said Matt Collins, Chief Marketing Officer at Calix. We look forward to hearing his insights on the future of the telecommunications industry, the upcoming market opportunities for service providers and how ALLO is redefining the customer experience in the markets they target. Brad Moline founded ALLO Communications LLC, a competitive local telephone company based in Nebraska, in 2003 and serves as its president and chief executive officer. He previously served as Senior Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer for Birch Telecom in Kansas City. Prior to that, he was the Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of Covenant Transport, Inc., which became publicly traded during his tenure. He remains a member of the Board of Directors of Covenant Transport. Registration is now open for Calix ConneXions, the industrys premier Innovation and User Conference, taking place October 27-30, 2018 at the Wynn in Las Vegas. Register today! About Calix Calix, Inc. (NYSE: CALX) Innovative communications service providers rely on Calix platforms to help them master and monetize the complex infrastructure between their subscribers and the cloud. Calix is the leading global provider of the cloud and software platforms, systems, and services required to deliver the unified access network and smart premises of tomorrow. Our platforms and services help our customers build next generation networks by embracing a DevOps operating model, optimize the subscriber experience by leveraging big data analytics and turn the complexity of the smart home and business into new revenue streams. This press release may contain forward-looking statements that are based upon management's current expectations and are inherently uncertain. Forward-looking statements are based upon information available to us as of the date of this release, and we assume no obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking statement to reflect any event or circumstance after the date of this release, except as required by law. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from current expectations based on risks and uncertainties affecting Calixs business. The reader is cautioned not to rely on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Additional information on potential factors that could affect Calix's results and other risks and uncertainties are detailed in its quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov. Press Inquiries: Dale Legaspi 408-474-0056 dale.legaspi@calix.com Sir, There are no shortcuts to good governance. Systematic problems require structural solutions, but the political scenario in our country is like that of a patient in an emergency room. Any mature electorate understands that the fundamental problem of democracy in the country is not about who is doing what in government, but whether or not the right systems are in place. In any functional democracy, no person who loves his or her country will want to elect a corrupt or incompetent politician, and someone who loves his or her spouse will not want a magician in the delivery room. The Kingdom of Eswatini has witnessed for decades the same old brand of politics. Unless every poor child will have the opportunity to finish college from a good school, be voted into office, and thereby implement programmes that will address the concerns he or she had before, then we are far from being the kind of society our great men and women of the timeless past had envisioned for this country. Right now, most politicians trumpet motherhood statements, proclaiming the love of the country and the desire to serve emaSwati but they do so by turning a blind eye on the real root cause of the ills in society. Thousands of people perpetually suffer, not only because government lacks resources but because of corruption. A clinical analysis of our problems will also point to culture and the kind of politics it so defines. Corruption kills. It kills without remorse because the money that is supposed to be spent on medication to save a poor persons life is diverted to purchase anothers luxury. We need a new breed of committed and intelligent young people in our bureaucracy to voice dissent against corruption. The solutions to our social and economic problems lie in the effective functioning of our institutions. People empowerment means that ordinary citizens are given an opportunity to make intelligent judgments in the electoral process. The essence of democracy is freedom of choice, which is at the very core of ones political existence - the consent of the people to be governed. The right of others not to be excluded from development mandates that political arrangements must work for the full realisation of the happiness of the least disadvantaged. But the issue is not really poverty, but the concentration of wealth in the hands of the elite. The cruel truth is that the biggest obstacle in realising the ends of a just society is that our politicians owe their rich financiers. Thabo Hlanze MBABANE The Ministry of Education and Training is all out to make sure that teachers attend to pupils and do not strike. This, after the ministry, through the offices of ther egional education officers (REO), introduced the strike spot checking tool. This form, according to the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Training Dr Sibongile Mtshali, was an instrument that was used to monitor the attendance of teachers following the high number of activities organised by the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT), for its members in recent weeks. Dr Mtshali said this was a work monitoring tool aimed at ensuring that those employed to teach pupils were doing so. She said the form was a means of collecting data to ensure the presence of teachers at schools and note those who were absent. If you are an employer and need to know whether the people you entrust with a particular task are executing it or not, what would you do? she asked rhetorically. Dr Mtshali said the ministry would adhere to the law to the letter in dealing with the attendance of teachers at schools. She said the ministry was using the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) Act, which is the Employment Act. Under this Act, there is Section 36 which states that once an employee is absent from work for three days within a month, it is a dismissible offence. The circulated form has a government emblem and the region of the REO it is distributed from. It is titled the Strike Spot Checking Tool and requires that the date, name of the school, phone number be filled in. The head teacher is signatory and marks it with the school stamp. There is also a space for the deputy head teacher to fill in and subsequent to that is the school quota (number of teachers the school has). It also has a slot where the teachers present are recorded and the departments that they teach. In the slot where the teachers fill it, they have to write their names, employment number, and class they taught and append their signature. Towards the bottom, the inspector collecting data should also fill in his or her name, inscribe his comments and sign it. On its foot, there is the space for the REO stamp. In essence, the form is to ensure that the ministry easily implement the no-work-no-pay rule and also dismiss those teachers who shall be absent from work for more than three days. Eswatini Principals Association (EPA) President Welcome Mhlanga, said he had seen the form and learnt from his deputy that it had to be filled on a daily basis as a register of present teachers. He recalled that a similar form was used in 2010 in some schools, to ensure the implementation of the no-work- no-pay rule. Mhlanga further said the forms were submitted to the office of the REO. He said looking at the form; it was a duplication of what they were doing on a daily basis as head teachers. He said they filled up the time book on a daily basis. He said this was the stipulated way the head teachers used to monitor the presence of teachers at their work stations on a daily basis. He said if a teacher was absent from school for over three days, the head teacher was obligated to report the absentee to the ministry, through the office of the REO. However, Secretary General of SNAT Sikelela Dlamini, said his organisation was still consulting on the form that was distributed by the ministry. He said it was unfortunate that the ministry thought the teachers were on strike. Dlamini said there was no ongoing strike by members of his organisation as they had conformed to the court order. Instead, he reminded the Ministry of Education and Training of the recognition agreement which he said allowed them to hold meetings during working hours. Well meet and engage on our issues without being intimidated. We adhere to the laws. He said his organisation or its members were not obligated to write to the PS or the REO, as it was not stipulated in the Industrial Act. Instead, Dlamini said his organisation would be hosting a general council on Saturday to deliberate on a way forward as there were developments daily. MBABANE The order issued by Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala is inappropriate and incompetent. This was one of the points of law raised by Sipho Shongwe, who is now challenging the CJs decision of staying the order for his release from custody. The order, which was later stayed by the head of Judiciary, had been issued by Judge Sipho Nkosi. Shongwe now wants the Supreme Court to dismiss and render the CJs order incompetent, unlawful and of no force and effect. In his notice to raise points of law, Shongwe averred that when hearing the application by the Crown to stay Judge Nkosi order, the CJ sat unconstitutionally by issuing a substantive order staying that of Judge Nkosi. The order issued by Justice Maphalala CJ is of no force and effect in that the Supreme Court is not a court of first instance and as provided for in terms of the Constitution, it only has appellant jurisdiction and as such, the matter was not before court in terms of the law as no notice of appeal has been served granting the court jurisdiction, submitted Shongwe. It was also his submission that, the order by the chief justice was of no force and effect as it was incompetent and could not be issued by the said court. Shongwe averred that the order that was issued by the CJ could only be issued by the court that granted the initial order. No application for a stay of the proceedings is pending in the High Court before the Honourable Justice Nkosi who is the only competent Justice to issue a stay as sought, added Shongwe. He contended that the Crown proceeded to obtain the order without notice to him and in his absence at hearing. Shongwe argued that there was no prayer for the matter to be heard ex parte (without the knowledge of the other party). Last Friday, Shongwes joy was cut short after the CJ issued an order for the stay of Judge Nkosis order to release him. Judge Nkosi granted Shongwe E500 000. However, it seems the Crown had anticipated that the judge would order Shongwes release as it filed an application for a stay even before the ink on the order could dry up. The order stopping Shongwes release from custody was subsequently issued by Chief Justice (CJ) Bheki Maphalala in his chambers. No amount of strong words employed by Judge Nkosi could deter the Crown from pulling all strings to ensure that Shongwe remained in custody. Deviate After having granted Shongwe bail, Judge Nkosi stated in no uncertain terms that he would deal with anyone who would deviate from the order he had issued. He also said; This order must be carried out without any deviation. An order issued by this court cannot be deviated from by filing of a notice of appeal. The CJ issued the order for the stay approximately five minutes after Judge Nkosi and those who came to give the accused moral support had left the court premises. The CJs order reads: Having heard the counsel for the applicant (Crown), it is hereby ordered that; the order granted by the High Court on September 28, 2018 in respect of bail is hereby stayed pending finalisation of the application filed by the Crown. The head of the Judiciary further directed Shongwe to file an opposing affidavit, if any, within three days hereof. He also directed that the application in respect of the petition for leave to appeal filed by the Crown was postponed to a date to be arranged with the registrar. The order by the CJ came after the Crown filed an urgent application in the Supreme Court where it was, among other prayers, seeking an order staying the execution of the order issued by Judge Nkosi. The Crown was also praying for an order, for leave to appeal against the order issued by Judge Nkosi. In his application, Principal Crown Counsel Absalom Makhanya stated that the matter was urgent due to the fact that; the Crown could not be afforded substantial redress at a hearing in due course because if the ordinary time limits were followed, Shongwe would have been released and interest of justice would have been defeated. MBABANE Sam Mkhombe holds no grudges against anyone even though his life was made a misery. Mkhombe clarified this during an interview where he passed his condolences to royalty and the Dlamini family on the death of former Prime Minister Sibusiso Dlamini yesterday. During the interview, he also appealed to unions to consider setting aside their industrial actions until a new government was in place. Mkhombe said some people might think he made this appeal because he was privileged or favoured by someone he only identified as Sincandamatje; something he said was not true. Our investigations unearthed that Sincandamatje is the former prime minister who passed away last Friday. Income If there is any person who is hurting the most, it is me. Sincandamatje shut me off any government institution, any parastatal, any international organisation where Swaziland (Eswatini) is a member and instructed his Cabinet in 2011 or 2012 and said I should never be seen near any of these institutions, Mkhombe said. Mkhombe continued to state, I have been without income for the past almost eight years because of him but I have never, I have never treated him as an enemy because I care for my country. Mkhombe, in a slightly shaky voice as though he was holding back tears, said what was done to him was not an excuse for him to join forces with those who destroyed the country. The former Kings Office private secretarys services were terminated in January 2011, about two weeks after he was suspended together with Mathendele Dlamini. They were reportedly suspended after a brief investigation into allegations that they were involved in a ploy to revive the Imbokodvo National Movement (INM). Mkhombe said he was hurting but the sword had to be buried so the country could be rebuilt. Mkhombe, making reference to trade unions, said through recent protests, they had shown that Sincandamatje had successfully reproduced himself. He said they were pushing down the country while it was already drowning. He appealed to them to be patriotic; explaining that Their Majesties had to be given a chance to form a new government. The way the protesters are behaving is like they are saying to His Majesty, akubuyelwe kukhanywane and in that way they are suggesting to His Majesty to look for more Sincandamatjes, which the nation does not want to see, Mkhombe said. Hbe had earlier listed the protesters to be nurses, teachers and public servants. Mkhombe stated that the nation wanted to see His Majesty surrounding himself with new brains. He said the nation had already armed His Majesty based on the qualifications and experiences of the recently elected Members of Parliament. He said it was evident that the nation was arming the King for a new chapter and added that this was proof that people were tired of the last government of the country. He said they wanted to, for the first time, see the first government of Eswatini being a different one. Mkhombe shared that he worked with both trade unions and His Majesty, whom he served for 16 years as advisor and private secretary. I know His Majesty, I know him very well, he does take good advice, let us allow him to surround himself with new brains and people who will have a heart for this country, Mkhombe stated. He appealed to trade unions to empathise with the country and give it a chance to revive the economy. He said he was confident that the economy could be revived if all efforts were put together towards rebuilding the country. Theory Mkhombe, when asked about the timing of his comment, seeing that appointed MPs were expected to be announced soon, as well as others to be in political positions and whether he did not have his eyes set on that, he simply brushed off this theory. He said those who wanted such political positions started canvassing for them a long time ago. He said his belief was that the processes were over by now. Sincerely, I am just appealing to my nation to think and put Swaziland (Eswatini) first, put our beloved country first, Mkhombe said. He said the protesters may be hurting but they had to put the country first. He said no one could find fairness in finishing off a country that was already broke. He said even toddlers could see that government had no money. He appealed to them to do an introspection as individuals and take time to reflect on themselves. Mkhombe said if they would do this religiously, they would find that they were on the same side of the river bank as Sincandamatje. He said looking deeper, they would find that they were like little clones. During the interview, Mkhombe first conveyed his condolences to Their Majesties, the Dlamini family and make Simelane following the death of the former prime minister. He said Simelane took care of Dlamini during a critical time. Meanwhile, Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA) Secretary General Mduduzi Gina, said they usually refrained from responding to comments made by individuals. Gina said they would, however, respond to Mkhombe as an elderly person. Gina said if Mkhombes intention was not politically driven, he would have approached the federation and engaged them personally. He said Mkhombe made similar statements to those made by courts that unions should hold their industrial actions until a new government was in office. He questioned why Mkhombe did not appeal to them before the courts made their ruling. We do not know what his interests are because we do not see him as a person of authority anywhere, Gina said. Gina further alleged that Mkhombe could not come to the party when he had authority. He said Mkhombe allegedly did something which made powers that be believe that he was not fit to continue serving them. He said they could not listen to him as he failed to convince them that he could lead even when he was given authority to do so. Gina said they viewed his statement as a political strategy. MBABANE Are some people taking advantage of the situation at schools? This question comes to the fore following allegations that a former student teacher of Mvimbeko High School did the unthinkable as he wore the schools uniform and reportedly wrote a Phys-Chem paper for one of the pupils. According to impeccable sources, the student teacher did his teaching practice at the school after he was attached from one of the local tertiary institutions. The sources alleged that the student teacher, *Thabo, entered the examination room wearing the schools uniform and sat where one of the pupils was supposed to sit and proceeded to write the examination on behalf of the learner. Sources stated that this went unnoticed by the invigilator whom they claimed was not a teacher by profession. They alleged that he was from the area and was tasked to be an invigilator, however, he did not know all the pupils who were to sit for the paper. They said also present at the school were police officers who were, however, not in the examination room. They stated that Thabo was able to easily sit for the paper because the invigilator did not know all the pupils. They shared that the issue was raised by other pupils after they had finished writing their examination that afternoon. Mvimbeko High School Head teacher, who was only identified as Khanyile, when asked about this, said they were still investigating the matter. He said he was in a meeting with certain people regarding the same matter and asked to be called later. Can I not respond for now because we are still investigating, please call me later, Khanyile said. When later called, the interview ended in a sudden manner, presumably due to poor network connection. Further attempts to reach him failed as calls could not go through to his mobile number. Manzini Regional Education Officer Mlimi Mamba said he could neither confirm nor deny the matter as he was yet to be furnished with a report on it. He said he only heard about it but could only comment after receiving the report. Examinations Council of Eswatini Registrar Dr Edmund Mazibuko, when reached for comment, asked to be called later as he was in a meeting. Mazibuko, when later called, did not answer his mobile phone. Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) Secretary General Sikelela Dlamini said Thabo seemingly took advantage of the situation with the impression that teachers were on strike. Mistake Dlamini said the mistake made by the Ministry of Education and Training was to relegate head teachers to the background while they had to be hands on. Dlamini said they did not want their members to invigilate during examinations as this often came with problems. He said in the event there was malpractice, teachers were called for disciplinary hearings and sometimes fired. He said they did not want their members to be associated with that but examinations should be the responsibility of head teachers. Dlamini also said they could not rule out the possibility that some people used the prevailing situation to their advantage. He further said the Examinations Council of Eswatini was a competent body which would deal decisively with the matter. He said as teachers, they did not want their members to be associated with malpractice. Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA) Secretary General Mduduzi Gina said it was possible for someone to walk into an examination room and write a paper on behalf of pupils. Gina said teachers were well versed about invigilating but was concerned that they seemingly did this under the barrel of a gun this year. He said it could not then be expected that they perform at their level best. He said what was more of a concern was that some of the invigilators were not even teachers and might not have the skill to differentiate between a pupil and someone who posed as one. We will be expecting a lot of such reports if government believes invigilating under the barrel of a gun is the answer where children are involved, Gina said. He called on government to remove all police officers from the schools centres. He said they should only be present after invitation from head teachers due to certain circumstances that warranted their presence. He said this should not be confused with that they were saying police should not do their job, but that it should not appear as if police were part of the education system. Gina said pupils were young and their minds were easily swayed. LOBAMBA Royalty makes up the majority of His Majesty King Mswati IIIs appointees into the 11th Parliaments House of Assembly. It was exactly 8:30pm when Chief Gija and Kings Private Secretary Mbongeni Simelane announced the 10 new appointees of the House of Assembly. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) headquarters at Nkhanini. Top of the list was former appointed Member of Parliament (MP) Prince Hlangabeza, followed by His Royal Highness Prince Simelane, Princess Phumelele and Princess Lindiwe. In no particular order, former MP Mfanawemakhosi Jomo Dlamini and Prince Kusa Dlamini, were also announced by Chief Gija who is the outgoing Chairperson of the EBC. Jomo was an MP in the 10th Parliament while Prince Kusa, who is also Chief of Mdumezulu was a Senator in the outgoing Parliament. Under Secretary at the Deputy Prime Ministers Office, Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe also made the list. Senator in the 10th Parliament, Indvuna Themba Ginindza, was eighth on the list, followed by Pholile Shakantu, who was the Deputy Commissioner at the EBC and businessman Neal Rijkenberg, who is in the forestry business and runs Bulembu Ministries. The appointment of the 10 MPs is in accordance with Section 95(1)(b) of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Eswatini, 2005 which relates to the composition of the House of Assembly. The section states; Not more than 10 members nominated by the King acting in his discretion after consultation with such bodies as the King may deem appropriate. Subsection 2(a) of the aforementioned section of the supreme law of the country states that the nominated members of the House shall be appointed by the King so that at least half of them are females. Subsection 2(b) goes on to state that this is so as to represent interests, including marginalised groups not already adequately represented in the House. The Constitution further provides for the election of four women into the House of Assembly in Section 95(1)(c) which states, Four female members, specifically elected from the four regions subject to subsection (3). Section 86(1) states; Where at the first meeting of the House after any general election it appears that female members of Parliament will not constitute at least 30 per cent of the total membership of Parliament, then, and only then, the provisions of this section shall apply. The Constitution also provides that the prime minister of the country shall be appointed from the House. Section 67(1) states; The King shall appoint the prime minister from among members of the House acting on recommendation of the Kings Advisory Council. A majority of the appointees, when called last night, had their numbers busy as news spread like wildfire that they had made it into the 11th Parliament. As is the norm, social media websites like Facebook already had the list of the new appointees and were making fun of those who may have been left out from it. Notably, the list was revealed about 12 hours after the King returned from the United Nations General Assembly. Efforts to get some of the newly-appointed MPs were unsuccessful. When Chief Kusa was called, his phone first rang unanswered while in intervals, the number was busy. However, when called around 10:30pm his number was no longer available on the network. TORONTO, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HARTE GOLD CORP. (Harte Gold or the Company) (TSX: HRT / OTC: HRTFF / Frankfurt: H4O) is pleased to announce grid power to site, the mill has been energized, the Company has started processing ore from its surface stockpile and ore sill development has resumed underground. Commissioning of the mill complex and surface infrastructure is going very well and will be substantially complete within the next week. Stephen G. Roman, President and CEO of Harte Gold, commented, This is a significant accomplishment and successful conclusion to an accelerated timeline that saw construction started 14 months ago and completed with no lost time accidents. The Company is very excited to announce to shareholders they can now look forward to the first gold pour within the next two weeks. Exploration Update To-date, Harte Gold has completed 90,400 metres of drilling in its 2018 drill program. Key intersections are summarized below: Underground drilling has returned additional high grade intersections at the Upper Zone area of the Sugar Zone. Hole S095-18-005 returned 37.38 g/t over 1.97 metres , which will improve modelled grade and provides a near-surface block of high grade mineralization for initial mine production. , which will improve modelled grade and provides a near-surface block of high grade mineralization for initial mine production. Sugar Zone Inferred to Indicated drilling continues to return high grade intersections that are expected to improve overall modelled grade. Hole SZ-18-254 returned 30.95 g/t over 1.32 metres . . Middle Zone Inferred to Indicated drilling continues to show positive widths and grades. Hole WZ-18-202W returned 35.59 g/t over 2.58 metres . . Wolf Zone drilling has expanded the mineralized envelope further down dip. Hole WZ-18-179W5 returned 5.12 g/t over 2.25 metres and hole WZ-18-175 returned 5.64 g/t over 10.60 metres , including 63.90 g/t over 0.70 metres . The Company is targeting an Initial Inferred Resources estimate at the Wolf Zone for its next Mineral Resource Estimate update in Q1 2019. and hole WZ-18-175 returned , including . The Company is targeting an Initial Inferred Resources estimate at the Wolf Zone for its next Mineral Resource Estimate update in Q1 2019. Drill permits have been received for the Eagle and Highway zones. The Company has mobilized a drill rig to further test both zones. Results will be provided as they become available. Drill results are summarized in the following tables: Sugar Zone Drilling Hole # Area From To Grade (g/t) Width (m) S095-18-005 Upper Zone 39.88 41.85 37.38 1.97 SZ-18-253 Upper Zone 757.26 760.36 6.91 3.10 SZ-18-254 Below Indicated Outline 652.77 654.09 30.95 1.32 Middle Zone Drilling Hole # Area From To Grade (g/t) Width (m) WZ-18-135 Middle Zone 485.68 489.48 5.14 3.80 WZ-18-144 Middle Zone - Upper Zone 182.13 183.59 6.42 1.46 WZ-18-144 Middle Zone 188.00 189.30 26.46 1.30 WZ-18-190 Middle Zone 212.90 214.35 18.61 1.45 WZ-18-201 Middle Zone 485.21 487.14 10.70 1.93 WZ-18-202W Middle Zone 956.42 959.00 35.59 2.58 Wolf Zone Drilling Hole # Area From To Grade (g/t) Width (m) WZ-18-150W Wolf Zone 736.26 738.22 4.58 1.96 WZ-18-175 Wolf Zone 529.20 539.80 5.64 10.60 including Wolf Zone 539.10 539.80 63.90 0.70 WZ-18-179W5 Wolf Zone 1,045.00 1,047.25 5.12 2.25 Core intersection lengths in the tables above approximate 80% true width, assay results are uncut, fire assay with metallic screen on samples >10 g/t A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/27ef5421-d697-4736-bf50-354840561c90 Official Mine Opening Ceremony The Company is also pleased to announce the Official Mine Opening Ceremony is scheduled for October 24, 2018. All shareholders and friends of the Company are welcome to attend the ceremony. For those planning to attend, please email Shawn Howarth, VP Corporate Development, at sh@hartegold.com , by October 12, 2018, to be added to a registered list. Further details and a schedule of events will be provided as they become available for those planning to attend. About Harte Gold Corp. Harte Gold is focused on production at its 100% owned Sugar Zone Mine where it has completed a 70,000 tonne Advanced Exploration Bulk Sample, mined 30,000 tonnes under a Phase I Commercial Production Permit, permitted and built an 800 TPD processing plant. Harte Gold received operational permits to start full commercial production in September 2018. The Sugar Zone Mine is located 80 kilometres east of the Hemlo Gold Camp in Ontario. Using a 3 g/t Au cut-off, the Mineral Resource Estimate dated February 15, 2018 contains an Indicated Mineral Resource Estimate of 2,607,000 tonnes grading 8.52 g/t for 714,200 ounces contained gold and an Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate of 3,590,000 tonnes, grading 6.59 g/t for 760,800 ounces contained gold. QA/QC Statement The Company has implemented a quality assurance and control (QA/QC) program to ensure sampling and analysis of mine and exploration work is conducted in accordance with industry standards. Drill core is sawn in half with one half of the core shipped to Actlabs Laboratories located in Thunder Bay, ON, while the other half is retained at the Companys core facilities in White River, ON, for future verification. Certified reference standards and blanks are inserted into the sample stream on a regular interval basis and monitored as part of the QA/QC program. Gold analysis is performed by fire assay using atomic absorption, gravimetric or pulp metallic finish. The Mineral Resource Estimate was prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 guidelines. Robert Kusins, P. Geo., Harte Golds Senior Mineral Resource geologist, is the Companys Qualified Person and has prepared, supervised the preparation, or approved the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release. For further information, please contact: Stephen G. Roman President and CEO Tel: 416-368-0999 Email: sgr@hartegold.com Shawn Howarth Vice President, Corporate Development Tel: 416-368-0999 E-mail: sh@hartegold.com The Toronto Stock Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. TBH I think your best answer will come from talking to some service providers where you are too see if the service is "international". I know what you are talking about is possible in that some friends of ours are living on the road using something similar for TV and internet. I think they are doing theirs through phone. Total contribution of Travel & Tourism to Greece's GDP was EUR35.0 bn (USD39.7bn), it is forecast to rise by 5.3% in 2018, and grow by 3.7% pa to EUR52.8bn (USD59.9bn), 22.7% of GDP in 2028 The total contribution of Travel & Tourism to Greece's GDP was EUR35.0 bn (USD39.7bn), it is forecast to rise by 5.3% in 2018, and grow by 3.7% pa to EUR52.8bn (USD59.9bn), 22.7% of GDP in 2028, according to data of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The direct contribution of Travel & Tourism to Greek GDP was EUR14.3bn (USD16.2bn), 8.0% of total GDP in 2017 and is forecast to rise by 5.6% in 2018, and to rise by 3.5% pa, from 2018-2028, to EUR21.3bn (USD24.1bn), 9.1% of total GDP in 2028. In 2017 Travel & Tourism directly supported 459,000 jobs (12.2% of total employment). This is expected to rise by 5.2% in 2018 and rise by 2.1% pa to 592,000 jobs (13.3% of total employment) in 2028. In 2017, the total contribution of Travel & Tourism to employment, including jobs indirectly supported by the industry was 24.8% of total employment (934,500 jobs). This is expected to rise by 5.6% in 2018 to 987,000 jobs and rise by 2.5% pa to 1,266,000 jobs in 2028 (28.5% of total). Visitor exports generated EUR17.1bn (USD19.5bn), 28.4% of total exports in 2017. This is forecast to grow by 5.1% in 2018, and grow by 4.5% pa, from 2018-2028, to EUR28.1bn (USD31.9bn) in 2028, 28.9% of total. Travel & Tourism investment in 2017 was EUR3.1bn, 15.9% of total investment (USD3.5bn). It should rise by 3.6% in 2018, and rise by 5.5% pa over the next ten years to EUR5.5bn (USD6.2bn) in 2028, 17.4% of total. US Ambassador to Greece Geoffrey Pyatt held a series of contacts with representatives of local government and local entities on Wednesday in Alexandroupolis, ANA reports. Referring to the US New Consul in Thessaloniki, Gregory W. Pfleger, the Defense Representative, Captain Ketter and the Economic Affairs Adviser, William Laitinen, who escorted him, the American Ambassador stressed: "This broad team reflects the US commitment to a strong interest in the region, but also the appreciation for the strategic importance of the Evros, an area for which we are grateful to use in order to facilitatethe movement of some of our military forces, an area that is meant to become a major European hub, as a number of projects are being implemented, such as the TAP pipeline that will enter into an operational next year, the IGB Greece-Bulgaria interconnector, which is proceeding with the help of the Prime Ministers Tsipras and Borisov." RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Mpb eu License: CC-BY-SA An artist, filmmaker and professor at the Royal Institute of Art in Stockholm who is hailed as one of the most prominent artists from Sweden and a significant proponent of the women's movement The State of Concept art space presents a solo exhibition of works by Petra Bauer, an artist, filmmaker and professor at the Royal Institute of Art in Stockholm who is hailed as one of the most prominent artists from Sweden and a significant proponent of the women's movement. This show represents the third part of the gallery's State Affairs exhibition cycle, focusing mainly on video art. Opening hours are Wednesdays to Fridays from 4.30 to 8.30 p.m. and Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m. State of Concept, 19 Botsari Tousa, Koukaki, tel 213.031.8576 Read more at ekathimerini.com RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Photo Source: vimeo.com English French Geneva - October 3, 2018 - STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, announced that it will release third quarter 2018 earnings before the opening of trading on the European Stock Exchanges on Wednesday October 24, 2018. The press release will be available immediately after the release on the Company's website at www.st.com. STMicroelectronics will conduct a conference call with analysts, investors and media to discuss its third quarter 2018 financial results and current business outlook on October 24, 2018 at 9:30 a.m. Central European Time (CET) / 3:30 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time (ET). A live webcast (listen-only mode) of the conference call will be accessible at ST's website, http://investors.st.com , and will be available for replay until November 9, 2018. About STMicroelectronics ST is a global semiconductor leader delivering intelligent and energy-efficient products and solutions that power the electronics at the heart of everyday life. ST's products are found everywhere today, and together with our customers, we are enabling smarter driving and smarter factories, cities and homes, along with the next generation of mobile and Internet of Things devices. By getting more from technology to get more from life, ST stands for life.augmented. In 2017, the Company's net revenues were $8.35 billion, serving more than 100,000 customers worldwide. Further information can be found at www.st.com. For further information, please contact: INVESTOR RELATIONS: Tait Sorensen Group VP, Investor Relations Tel: +1 602 485 2064 tait.sorensen@st.com MEDIA RELATIONS: Alexis Breton Director, PR & Media Operations Tel: + 33 6 59 16 79 08 alexis.breton@st.com Athens Express SA, Celestyal Cruises, ELECTRA HOTELS & RESORTS and HETCO TOURS will be in the Greek pavilion while the company TourGreeece SA will take part as an independent exhibitor The Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) will have a pavilion hosting four enterprises in the tourist exhibition ITB Asia 2018 that will be held at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore from 17 to 19 October with the support of the Greek-German Chamber, according to ANA. For more information on the exhibition and obtaining accreditation cards, companies can contact the Greek-German Chamber at the phone line 2106419037 or to visit the exhibition's website www.itb-asia.com or the special website of the Chamber on exhibitions www.german-fairs.gr. RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Decisions for the next European budget to be reached soon to avoid an investment gap between the two programme periods European Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Cretu congratulated the Greek government during her meeting on Wednesday with Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, ANA reports. She said that Greece remains first in the absorption of European funds in the current period, a prime minister's press office announcement noted. RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Andrikkos License: CC-BY-SA European Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Cretu announced on Wednesday the EU will fund with 121 million euros a motorway connecting the Aktio peninsula to the Ionia highway, a key transport section serving Western Greece. The statement came during a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Yiannis Dragasakis, as part of her three-day official visit to Greece. This motorway, which will run from Aktio to the lake Amvrakia area and connect to the newly opened Ionia motorway, ensuring faster travels in Western Greece as well as to and from the Rio-Antirrio bridge, to the island of Lefkada and to the Aktio aiport. Once works are concluded in 2022, the travel time on this TEN-T section will be 30 minutes shorter, and road safety will significantly improve. The EU already invested 83 million euros during the first phase of the project, in the 2007-2013 budget period. Read more at ekathimerini.com RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Christaras A License: CC-BY-SA We are determined to continue, by all legal and moral means, to claim our stolen treasures, noted the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at a presentation devoted to the hundred years since the pillaging of rare historical heirlooms from the Virgin Mary Ikosifinissa of Paggeio, by Bulgarian invaders during the second decade of the 20th century. He also appealed to the Greek state and political authorities to include the request for the irrecoverable return of all treasures looted by Bulgarians from the monasteries of Macedonia to bilateral contacts as well as to the legal framework of the EU. The Ecumenical Patriach referred to precious historical heritage, ancient manuscripts, tributes, icons, etc. as spiritual and cultural treasures of the Greeks which were looted without fear of God from Macedonian monasteries at that time and were left in the neighboring country and either hidden in secret collections or exhibited in museums as examples of a supposedly Bulgarian-Byzantine civilization , or were illegally sold to museums and libraries in third countries. Notably, the Patriarch praised the attitude of the stressed: The remainder of the looted treasures are retained contrary to any sense of law, despite the repeated appeals of the Ecumenical Patriarch to the highest political and state leadership of Bulgaria and to the Patriarchate of Sofia. It is a great wound in the body of Romiosini, which remaigreens open and dying for a whole century. We express our sincere wish and request: that the relevant state and political authorities of Greece to diligently include this demand for the irrevocable return of all looted cultural and spiritual treasures by the Bulgarians from our Macedonian monasteries, in any future bilateral and international meetings and within the legal framework of Europe continued the Ecumenical Patriarch. Read more at greekcitytimes.com RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Pvasiliadis License: CC-BY-SA Two Greeks managed, after an adventure that lasted 4 weeks, to conquer this mountain top that is part of the well-known Nepalese Himalayas Manaslu is the eighth highest mountain in the globe. Its peak sits at 8,163 meters (26,781 ft) above the sea level and is considered one of the most difficult mountains to climb, mainly due to harsh weather conditions that often involves sudden and strong snowstorms. Nevertheless, the dangerous conditions of the mountain were not enough to stop Antonios Sykaris and George Marinos. The two Greeks managed, after an adventure that lasted 4 weeks, to conquer this mountain top that is part of the well-known Nepalese Himalayas. The two members of the Greek association of climbers began their long trip to Nepal in early September this year. The conditions were adverse, their health not stable and everything seemed to be against them. But, their experience along with their determination gave them the courage to continue and pursue their dream to conquer one of the most difficult mountains of the planet. Manaslu, the mountain of the spirits as it is known in the local language, has claimed 64 lives until now. It was initially conquered in 1956 by Tomasio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu, two Japanese climbers, making Manaslu known as the Japanese mountain. The 56-year-old Sykaris is the first Greek to conquer three mountains of what is known by climbers as the grand slam which includes the 14 mountains that are higher than 8,000 meters. He conquered Everest in 2017 along with Mike Eumorfides, and Kanchenjunga together with Fotis Theocharis and now Manaslu. Read more at greekreporter.com RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Papa Lima Whiskey 2 License: CC-BY-SA Bahrain has issued four new laws covering data protection, competition, bankruptcy and health insurance as part of the reforms that will enhance the kingdoms investment ecosystem, officials said. The laws, officially issued by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, address a range of issues and will have a particularly strong impact on the kingdoms economy and its growing startup ecosystem, a statement from Bahrains Economic Development Board (EDB) said. Highlights of the laws set to be implemented in the coming months are: Personal Data Protection Law: Bahrain will introduce a nationwide data protection law, supporting the development of the kingdoms digital economy. The law promotes the efficient and secure processing of big data for commercial use and provides guidelines for the effective transfer of data across borders; Competition Law: This law facilitates innovation as well as increasing productivity and efficiency by introducing legislation to prevent the formation of monopolies or the practice of anti-competitive behaviour. This will make it easier for new businesses to enter existing markets and compete with significant players. Bankruptcy Law: This law enables experimentation and innovation by businesses and improves the outcomes of the bankruptcy process for all parties. The law introduces reorganisation, whereby a companys management is allowed to remain in place and continue business operations during the administration of a case, as in the United States Chapter 11 law. The Bankruptcy law also includes provisions for Cross-Border Insolvency, and special provisions in relation to the insolvency of small and medium-sized enterprises, which provides a higher threshold of protection to those enterprises. Health Insurance Law: This promotes an integrated health system for Bahrain, based on a sustainable financing system that supports and attracts investment in both the healthcare and insurance industries. The Supreme Council of Health has overall responsibility for the rollout of the system and will carry out the necessary activities to regulate the health insurance system. The Government will establish the Health Insurance Fund to assure improved pooling under a new national umbrella and coverage for beneficiaries related to benefits and service provision. The laws come as part of a wider development effort, designed to create new opportunities for investors looking to access the Bahraini market. Government initiatives implemented in recent years have helped spur strong growth in FDI. Bahrain EDB attracted a record BD305 million ($810m) of investment during the first nine months of the year compared to BD276 million ($733m) in 2017 as a whole. Speaking about the new laws, Industry, Commerce and Tourism Minister Zayed R Alzayani said: These laws represent a positive and significant step forward to increase and encourage foreign direct investments, and inject further resources into all economic sectors of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The four laws are accompanied by a flexible regulatory framework which ensures their implementation meets the goals and objectives of Bahrains Vision 2030, maintains Bahrains status as a favourable destination for world-wide investors, and raises the Kingdoms appeal to international financial and economic institutions. Commenting on the new laws, Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chief Executive, Bahrain Economic Development Board, said: We are very excited to see the impact of these new laws, which will help to enhance the environment in existing industries as well as open new opportunities to investors The future prosperity depends on growth driven by higher productivity and on embracing the new industries that will drive growth in the decades to come. Al Rumaihi added: We have seen a very strong period of growth in FDI in Bahrain over the past few years, and the broader programme of regulatory development has been an essential enabler of that. However, we know that to maintain that growth, we need to continue to innovate. Bahrain has a long track record as a regional pioneer, and these new laws underline how important it is for us to maintain that culture of innovation. TradeArabia News Service Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI) has signed a Basic Loan Agreement for financing loans with Commerzbank to support small and medium sized projects in Iraq. The Loan Agreement was signed at the back of TBI being approved by Germanys export credit insurer Euler Hermes as a borrower for medium and long term Export Credit Agency (ECA) financing with repayment terms of up to five years, said a statement. TBI aims to support public and private sector projects up to a business volume of 100 million ($115.30 million) and facilitate financing of export contracts for products, materials and machines. The newly-signed loan agreement focuses on the financing of export contracts awarded to Commerzbank clients in Germany and other European countries, it said. The signing of this agreement is part of the long-term strategy of TBI to source and secure funding for projects in Iraq, which will create new opportunities for employment and accelerate the process of economic growth, it added. TBI was established in July 2003 with the aim of helping in the reconstruction of Iraq by facilitating international trade and continues to be at the forefront of large-scale infrastructure developments across the country. The institutions financial network and expertise plays a significant role in sourcing and securing funding for projects. It established its first international office in the UAE in 2017 and has since signed several agreements with international banks and finance firms to help fund infrastructure projects inside Iraq. The MoU with Commerzbank was officially signed at TBIs representative office at Abu Dhabi Global Market on Al Maryah Island in the presence of senior representatives from Commerzbank and Euler Hermes. Faisal Al Haimus, chairman and president of Trade Bank of Iraq, said: This loan agreement will enable us to provide support for SMEs in Iraq as they have a big role to play in the economic upturn in Iraq by driving the growth. Thanks to the backing of Euler Hermes, funds will be transferred directly by Commerzbank to suppliers from Germany and other European countries ensuring the success of the suitable projects we identify. The SMEs will get access to the supplies and machinery with excellent repayment terms, he said. We are committed towards the upliftment of the Iraqi economy by partnering and engaging with various stakeholders to help Iraqi businesses to realise their ambitions for growth, he added. This agreement is further evidence that we remain committed to our mission to create new trade and investment links between Iraq and rest of the world, he concluded. Cathrin Karpinski, head of international markets export and agency finance of Commerzbank, said: This Basic Loan Agreement is a great achievement which will contribute to strengthen the trade relations between Iraq and Germany. Through this framework we will support Iraqi companies seeking to do business with our clients in Germany and other parts of Europe by offering long-term funding for various projects in the future, she said. Our strong presence in Europe combined with TBIs knowledge of the Iraqi market will add value for German and European corporates as they gain access to business opportunities and other investment opportunities in Iraq, she added. TradeArabia News Service Dubai International Airport (DXB) recorded its busiest month ever in August as it welcomed 8.37 million passengers during the month, surpassing its former record of 8.23 million set in August 2017 August marks the second consecutive month that DXB has crossed the 8 million customer mark, setting Dubai Airports up for a strong third quarter. DXBs average monthly traffic this year is 7.5 million. Thats 1.2 million more than its closest rival London Heathrow (6.29 million). Dubai Airports CEO, Paul Griffiths, said: Its another milestone for Dubai Airports as we continue to break records and set the bar even higher. While the numbers speak volumes about our growth, our aim is to continue pushing the boundaries on experience and provide customers with the best possible service. We are making progress on that front as well with shorter queue times, world-leading F&B and retail and other touches like spas, swimming pools and trampolines that help us stand out from the crowd. Key facts and figures Passenger numbers in August totalled 8,376,478, up 1.7 per cent compared to figures recorded in August 2017, boosting DXBs year to date numbers to 60,323,570 - an increase of 1.6 per cent. A total of 7.2 million bags passed through the airports 175 km long baggage system during the month, up 5.9 per cent compared to the same period last year. Despite high volumes, queue times dropped 44 per cent in August thanks to Smart Gate technology that speeds customers through immigration and a new state-of-the-art operations nerve centre that leverages real-time big data into service and efficiency enhancements. Top destinations DXB continues to welcome people from all over the globe, leveraging its geocentric location to connect the world. India remained DXBs top destination country by customer volumes, with total traffic reaching 1,012,124 during the month. Saudi Arabia was second with 613,618 customers, followed by the UK with 603,531. Other markets of note include US (306,701 customers) and China (215,211). The top three cities were London (371,574 customers), Kuwait (272,607) and Mumbai (210,820). The fastest growing regions were Eastern Europe (up by a whopping 25.7 per cent), the CIS (up 14.8 per cent) and Africa (growing 11.2 per cent). Flights Flight movements during the month increased to 35,423, up 3.1 per cent compared to August 2017. So far this year, 272,600 flights have taken-off or landed at DXB, a slight dip of 0.7 per cent compared to the same period last year. Cargo A total of 219,629 tonnes of air freight moved through DXB in August, down 2.3 per cent compared August 2017, bringing total cargo tonnage for the year to 1,711,279 (down 1.7 per cent). - TradeArabia News Service Bank of America Merrill Lynch and UBS Tops in Euro Trading Share Even across the Pond, the bulge bracket brokers rule the equities markets. While its still early days of the MiFID II era, but so far the biggest winners from the industry-changing unbundling regulations have been the biggest broker-dealers. Greenwich Associates recently announced its 2018 Leaders in European Equities. As always, that list is dominated by big global dealers. But this year, following the January 2018 implementation of MiFID II, the bulge bracket has widened its lead over smaller competitors. Global bulge-bracket brokers have clearly increased relative share and impact since MiFID II went live, said Greenwich Associates Managing Director Jay Bennett. This reflects their ability to invest in the necessary technology to offer both high-touch and low-touch execution service capabilities and global liquidity for the larger fund management complexes. From March to May 2018, Greenwich Associates interviewed 209 portfolio managers and 155 traders at European institutions about the research, sales and trading services they receive from their brokers. These portfolio managers and traders were also asked about current market practices, trends and compensation. In European Equity Trading, the 2018 Greenwich Share Leaders are Bank of America Merrill Lynch and UBS, which together lead the market in trading share, followed by J.P. Morgan, Credit Suisse and Morgan Stanley. The 2018 Greenwich Quality Leaders in European Equity Trading & Execution Service Quality are Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Credit Suisse, J.P. Morgan, and UBS. With research/advisory services now largely paid for by buy-side clients, investors have narrowed their broker lists. The 2018 Greenwich Share Leaders in European Equity Research/Advisory are Morgan Stanley, J.P. Morgan, UBS, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, and Exane BNP Paribas. Clients have typically concentrated their vote and spend with selected bulge-bracket and more regional providers, according to Greenwich Associates consultant Satnam Sohal. The 2018 Greenwich Quality Leaders in European Equity Research Product and Analyst Service Quality are Exane BNP Paribas, J.P. Morgan and Morgan Stanley. Electronic Execution Its not only global bulge bracket brokers that have benefitted from MiFID II. Execution-only platforms have also gained market share this year. ITG is among the 2018 Greenwich Share Leaders in European Equity Algorithmic Trading, and both ITG and Liquidnet place among the 2018 Greenwich Quality Leaders in European Equity Electronic Trading. Click here for the Greenwich Report and list of 2018 Greenwich Leaders in European Equities For more information on related topics, visit the following channels: HFT Isn't Getting Faster The days of latency arbitrage has hit the wall of physics, and there is little the industry can do to address the issue, according to a panel discussion hosted by New York University and Security and Exchange Commission's Division of Economic and Risk Analysis and Division of Trading and Markets. "I think we have squeezed just about as much as we can out of the speed game," said John Ramsay, chief market policy officer at the Investors Exchange (IEX). The industry should measure trading in microseconds and not think of nanosecond even if exchanges time stamp matches in nanoseconds, according to fellow panelist Adam Nunes, head of business development at Hudson River Trading. "It doesn't mean that they can match orders in nanoseconds," he said. "We are in a microsecond world." Nunes also noted that additional consolidation in the high-frequency trading space is likely to continue, especially as more trading firms gain access to enabling technologies, such as microwave networks. "With some of the providers, you can log into a website, click 'I want microwave data here and here,' and get it," he added. When asked by Brett Redfearn, director of the Division of Markets and Trading at the SEC, whether hitting such a latency performance plateau would drive HFT firms into other asset classes and geographies, Nunes responded that niche firms already had made moves. "From my perspective, I think that scale is important and will continue to be important," he said. "Thinking about diversifying your strategies and how you approach trading will be increasingly important." Technology change will not go away, added Ramsay. "I think there will be opportunities for using technology whether it is artificial intelligence or machine learning, to inform and affect the way that trading happens." Whether continued HFT consolidation is good or bad for the industry is hard to tell, according to fellow panelist Terrence Hendershott, a professor in finance & operations and information technology at UC Berkeleys Haas School of Business. "On the one hand, fewer HFTs means that the remaining firms can amortize their fixed costs over a larger trading volume, he suggested. "On the other hand, it is like competition in the exchange space: How much is a good thing? If there is too much consolidation, they start to have too much market power." Hendershott concluded that much depends on the decisions the Commission will need to make on what sort of market structures it will allow. For more information on related topics, visit the following channels: MANSFIELD, TEXAS, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mansfield city officials and nearly 200 community leaders joined Texas Health Resources and Adventist Health System on Tuesday at a kick-off event to celebrate the beginning of Texas Health Hospital Mansfield, a new health care campus. Construction begins later this month. Scheduled to open in late 2020, Texas Health Mansfield will offer a full variety of services including a 24/7 emergency room, general surgery, womens care, orthopedics and interventional cardiology. The four-story, 195,400-square-foot facility will have an initial capacity of 95 beds. At a total cost of $150 million, the campus will also include an 80,000-square-foot medical office building that will house primary care and specialty practices. Together, well build a community hospital with Mansfield residents in mind, said Barclay E. Berdan, FACHE, CEO of Texas Health Resources, at the kick-off event. Texas Health Mansfield will offer a full range of services and will grow with the community as we partner with residents here for a lifetime of health and well-being. The project is a joint venture between Texas Health and Adventist Health System. The two faith-based organizations have a long history of collaboration; Huguley Memorial, an Adventist Health System hospital, affiliated with the Texas Health system in 2012. Now known as Texas Health Huguley Hospital Fort Worth South, the 356-bed facility is a joint venture between the two health systems, serving residents of Ellis, Johnson and Tarrant counties. One of our strategic imperatives is about engaging consumers and putting them at the center of their care experience, said Adventist Health System President and CEO Terry Shaw. This commitment manifests in the service standards we employ, spiritual care we offer, care navigation we provide and the tools we develop to help consumers engage in their care. Dr. Erica Sails is a family medicine physician who lives in the Mansfield area. She will be opening a clinic in the area this fall and providing care at Texas Health Mansfield when it opens in 2020. I have a deep connection to the faith-based missions that these health systems have, said Sails. I believe it is my calling to provide excellent care to the Mansfield community that I love so much, and I am so proud to be one of the first physicians on the team. The new Mansfield project, a 38-acre campus located on the southeast corner of U.S. Highway 287 and Lone Star Road in the Johnson County area of Mansfield, will be Texas Healths second major facility in Mansfield, with the Texas Health Recovery & Wellness Center located about 3 miles north of the future hospital site. Covering 50 square miles, Mansfield is located primarily in southeastern Tarrant County, with areas stretching into Ellis and Johnson counties. The city has expanded rapidly in recent years, with a population growth rate of more than 10 percent from 2011-17. To address this future growth, all elements of Texas Health Mansfield have the capacity to grow, using an efficient, cost-effective design model. We are so excited to bring this wholistic and consumer-focused care to the Mansfield community beginning in 2020, Shaw said. You can read more about Texas Health Mansfield here. Follow us on social media at #MansfieldHealthy. ### About Texas Health Resources Texas Health Resources is one of the largest faith-based, nonprofit health systems in the United States. The health system, which along with UT Southwestern founded Southwestern Health Resources in 2016 to make it easier for North Texans to access the highest quality care consistently in a responsive and coordinated manner, includes 29 hospital locations that are owned, operated, joint-ventured or affiliated with Texas Health. It includes Texas Health Presbyterian Dallas, Texas Health Arlington Memorial, Texas Health Harris Methodist and Texas Health Huguley Hospitals, Texas Health Physicians Group, outpatient facilities, behavioral health and home health, preventive and fitness services, and an organization for medical research and education. For more information about Texas Health, call 1-877-THR-WELL, or visit www.TexasHealth.org. About Adventist Health System (Soon to be AdventHealth) With a sacred mission of extending the Healing Ministry of Christ, Adventist Health System (AHS) is a connected system of care for every stage of life and health. More than 80,000 skilled and compassionate caregivers in physician practices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, home health agencies and hospice centers provide individualized, wholistic care. A Christian mission, shared vision, common values, focus on whole-person health and commitment to making communities healthier unify the system's nearly 50 hospital campuses and hundreds of care sites in diverse markets throughout almost a dozen states. On January 2, 2019, all of the systems wholly owned locations will adopt the system name AdventHealth. For more information about Adventist Health System, visit www.adventisthealthsystem.com. Attachment NEW YORK, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via CryptoCurrencyWire -- CryptoCurrencyWire (CCW), a multifaceted financial news and publishing company, today announces it will again serve the Blockchain World Conference (BWC) brand as it brings together top-tier industry experts, entrepreneurs and educational opportunities, this time to the Diplomat Beach Resort for BWC South in Hollywood, Florida, December 2-5, 2018. After proving its expertise and value as the official newswire for BWCs global event in Atlantic City earlier this year, CCW was asked to again leverage its arsenal of corporate communications solutions to enhance the recognition of companies and activists looking for visibility among investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CCWs brand awareness strategies include financial news and content distribution, syndicated placement, content curation, social media, global and audio press releases, and more. The CryptoCurrencyWire team brings real game to the blockchain and crypto space with an impressive lineup of syndicated articles, press releases, journalist placements and other valuable resources that effectively reaches a worldwide audience in multiple languages, stated Alex Falcone, chief operating officer of BWC. We are very enthused to welcome them back as the official newswire and gold sponsor of our December conference in Florida and are excited to be working again with their knowledgeable team of experts. Powered by BWC Events, the upcoming conference will feature blockchain and fintech industry leaders from around the world for an entertaining yet educational experience that trends toward innovation, intelligent solutions and opportunities for all participants. Organizers worked tirelessly to attract an unparalleled lineup of blockchain and crypto experts to provide a rich experience of scheduled presentations, seminars and panel discussions for BWC South. Among the events impressive lineup of industry standouts is keynote speaker Brock Pierce, an entrepreneur and venture capitalist with an extensive track record of founding, advising and investing in disruptive businesses. Pierce is credited with pioneering the market for digital currency in games and has raised more than $500 million for companies he has founded. He is also the chairman of the Bitcoin Foundation, co-founder of Blockchain Capital, co-founder and head of strategy at Block.one, and founding board member of Mastercoin (first ICO). We are thrilled to again contribute our expertise for an industry that we enthusiastically believe in and are actively striving to advance among mainstream audiences, said Jonathan Keim, Communications Director of CryptoCurrencyWire. We thoroughly enjoyed attending and promoting the Blockchain World Conference in July and are excited to return for BWC South as the events official newswire and gold sponsor. About CryptoCurrencyWire (CCW) CryptoCurrencyWire is a financial news and content distribution company that provides (1) access to a network of wire services via NetworkWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible, (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets (3), enhanced press release services to ensure maximum impact, (4) social media distribution via the Investor Brand Network (IBN) to nearly 2 million followers, (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions, and (6) a total news coverage solution with CCW Prime . As a multifaceted organization with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CCW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in todays market, CCW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CryptoCurrencyWire is where news, content and information converge via crypto. For more information, please visit https://www.CryptoCurrencyWire.com Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CryptoCurrencyWire (CCW) website applicable to all content provided by CCW, wherever published or re-published: http://CCW.fm/Disclaimer CONTACT INFORMATION | By Chris Zang As the media relations director of the Baltimore Police Department, Capt. T.J. Smith, MA, MS, knows the ugly side of the city better than most. So he didnt sugarcoat Baltimores problems on Sept. 26 when he spoke to University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) faculty, staff, and students as part of the Presidents Symposium and White Paper Project, which this year focuses on the fight against gun violence. UMB Presidents Fellows (from left) Nicole Campion Dialo, Jessica Egan, Lauren Highsmith, and Vibha Rao chat with Capt. T.J. Smith after his presentation. These have been the most violent years in Baltimore history, Smith told the 80-plus people gathered in the Southern Management Corporation Campus Center ballroom. So were keenly aware of violence. Dont be fooled by any masks that people use to describe different tenures in policing over the years. Baltimore has been a very violent town for a very long time. In fact, as Smith pointed out, USA Today recently ranked Baltimore No. 1 among large U.S. cities in the number of murders per capita. He said it wasnt even close. If we had a 40 percent reduction in homicides we would still be the largest city with the No. 1 problem, Smith said. Just to use a comparison, New York City, with 8 million-plus people, had 285 murders last year. Baltimore City, with 615,000 people, had 342. If we had the population of New York City, we would have had well over 3,000 murders last year. Not that Baltimore is the only city struggling with gun violence. Early in his talk, the personable Smith asked the crowd what state in the U.S. does not have gangs? Attendees guessed Utah or Hawaii. No, Smith said. The state of denialis the one that doesnt have gangs. Gangs are everywhere, gun violence is everywhere, he said, mentioning recent mass shootings in Harford County and a local elementary school that day where a student brought a gun. He doesnt see things changing anytime soon despite determined efforts to curb such crimes. He pointed out systemic problems that have to be fixed first. Why is it easier for the kid in West Baltimore to get a gun than an apple or a salad? Smith said. Combine the food deserts with poor housing and then youre sending that child to school and telling them to sit still for six to eight hours a day and expect them to be a vibrant, productive member of society. We see zero percent proficiency in some of our schools. And its an ugly cycle that repeats itself, Smith said. Lets just take three guys who spent 25 years in federal prison. One was from Baltimore, one was from D.C., and one was from New York and you dropped them back off in their hood. The only person who would be able to navigate through their hood today would be the one from Baltimore because it looks exactly the same as it looked 25 years ago. We just havent been aggressive enough at changing what people have been used to. Among numerous stories Smith told was one about Curtis Deal, 18, who in February 2017 got out of jail for the third time in a month before an altercation with police less than 24 hours later in which he was killed when he pulled a gun. Smith said the story behind the gun is a sad tale in itself. That gun was reported stolen in Washington County by a husband and his wife who were getting some work done to their home. So he thinks its these workers that are doing work, and reports it. Find out that his wife was opioid addicted and took these guns and sold them in Baltimore and thats how the gun ended up on the streets and used by Curtis Deal and he ultimately died as a result. We use Curtis Deal not to chastise him for what he did but to talk about an epic failure in the overall system. One, he probably should still be in jail. Two, we have an issue withpeople who are responsible gun owners having irresponsible people around. With over 20 years in law enforcement, serving in community policing, tactical patrol, narcotics work at the Anne Arundel County Police Department before coming to the Baltimore Police Department just after the riots in 2015, Smith still takes tackling crime personally. Especially a case in July 2017. Enjoying a rare vacation, Smith had just steamed crabs and taken some to his mother when one of the hundreds of texts he gets every day on police business came in with the subject line Dionay Smith. I said, Thats my brother, related Capt. Smith. The age and address were the same and his first name is unusual. Thats one of those surreal moments where you just cant believe it. The younger Smith, 24, had been gunned down on the side of his home. Capt. Smith recounted to the UMB crowd how he reacted, details of the point-blank shooting, and how media outlets descended on him seeking a story during his time of grief. As the public face who often is on TV reporting on the latest murder, Smith turned down dozens of story requests about his brothers death, which he called number 173, because thats what we do in Baltimore, we count bodies. After some closing remarks by Smith and emcee Courtney Jones Carney, MBA, director of Interprofessional Student Learning and Service Initiatives, the captain took many questions from the audience. He discussed the Safe Streets initiative, bulletproof vests for civilians, suicide by cop, trust between police and the community, social media and crime, closing of rec centers, public housing, and many other topics. Nicole Campion Dialo, a School of Medicine student who is one of the seven 2018 Presidents Fellows who is studying the root cause of gun violence, asked Smith if you could conceive of something to implement tomorrow that would cut our violence rates in half, what would it be? If I had a magic wand to fix our problem, Smith said, I would start with our schools because really education is the key. There are not a lot of areas in this country that have an educated population and has these socioeconomic problems and social ills. So our school system is where it begins and our elementary school-aged kids. Read more about the Presidents Symposium and White Paper Project. NEW YORK, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- An all-star panel that included some of the countrys leading women asset allocators and fund managers convened at Labaton Sucharows Womens Initiative event to address current trends, compelling reasons to include diverse managers in a portfolio, and ways to improve visibility for diverse managers. Held at the Four Seasons in New York on September 28, the event was conceived and designed to foster the discussion around the important topic of how institutional investors invest and build relationships with women and minority-owned firms, according to Labaton Sucharow partner and program co-chair Serena Hallowell. This topic is of interest to many of our clients, both the public pension funds and investment managers, and our Womens Initiative wants to be part of the effort to open the dialogue and bridge some of the gaps that exist between allocators and diverse managers, said Ms. Hallowell, co-chair of Labaton Sucharows Womens Initiative. The goal of the Womens Initiative is to promote the advancement of women lawyers and to make them into women leaders, said partner Carol Villegas, program co-chair and co-chair of the Womens Initiative. This event expands our vision by engaging fabulous female professionals in the finance and legal industry and helps elevate women and minorities in the profession. Introduced by Karen Grenon (Assistant General Counsel, Office of the Treasurer-State of Connecticut), the allocator panel included Corinne T. Babcock (President and Commissioner, Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions), Laurie Martin (Chief Investment Officer, Connecticut Retirement Plans and Trust Funds), Sheryl Mejia (Director of Emerging Managers, New York State Common Retirement Fund), and Angela Miller-May (Chief Investment Officer, Chicago Teachers' Pension Fund). Meredith A. Jones (Partner and Head of Emerging Manager Research, Aon) moderated the first panel. The managers panel was moderated by Safia B. Mehta (Managing Director, Outsourced Investment Solutions, Manager Analysis Services LLC) and the panelists included: Marilyn R. Freeman (Principal & Manager, Capital Prospects LLC); Mary Lisanti (President, Portfolio Manager, and Managing Member, Lisanti Capital Growth, LLC); Mary Pugh (CEO & Chief Investment Officer, Pugh Capital Management, Inc.); and Susan Webb (President/CIO, Appomattox Advisory, Inc.). Partner Marisa N. DeMato, co-chair of the program, delivered the closing remarks and highlighted the events all-female panels noting that this was a deliberate decision to provide a platform to highly accomplished women to share their expertise and experiences. We believe female-led panels should be the new normal, she added. Labaton Sucharows Womens Initiative was founded in 2007 with the goal of providing an environment that fosters growth, leadership, and success for the Firms female attorneys. Since its launch, the firm has hosted dozens of exceptional guests, including senior executives from a wide array of commercial markets, as well as leaders in politics, law, and global not-for-profits. The program also includes quarterly workshops on practical skills, such as networking, public speaking, and self-advocacy, as well as opportunities to participate and join outside womens organizations, bar associations, and networking groups in order to build professional profiles. The group is also a proud supporter of Girls Who Invest and Rock The Street, Wall Street, two leading organizations that seek to bring more women into leadership roles in finance. ABOUT LABATON SUCHAROW LLP For more than 50 years, Labaton Sucharow LLP has been a trusted partner to public pension funds, hedge funds, investment banks, and other financial institutions. We have prosecuted precedent-setting class and direct actions, recovering billions of dollars on behalf of injured investors and consumers. The Firms successful reputation is built not only on its team of 60 attorneys, but also on its industry-leading in-house investigators, financial analysts, and forensic accountants. The Firm litigates in the areas of securities, antitrust, consumer protection, and corporate governance and shareholder rights law, as well as whistleblower representation. With affiliates worldwide, the Firm also advises clients on non-U.S. securities actions. For more information, visit www.labaton.com . Thomas Gass Thomas Gass was appointed by the Secretary-General as Assistant Secretary-General for Policy Coordination and Inter-Agency Affairs in UN DESA and he took office on 3 September 2013. He brings with him wide-ranging experience in bilateral and multilateral development cooperation. From 2009 to 2013, he served as Head of the Mission of Switzerland to Nepal (Ambassador and Country Director of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation), where he established the Embassy of Switzerland in Nepal, and ensured the delivery of a development cooperation programme of up to 33 million dollars a year. He also chaired the Donors of the Nepal Peace Trust Fund, the main instrument for international support to Nepals peace process. Before his posting to Nepal from 2004 to 2009, Mr. Gass was Head of the Economic and Development Section at the Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the UN in New York, where he represented Switzerlands interests, in particular in the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), its subsidiary Commissions, the General Assembly and the Executive Boards of the major UN Funds and Programmes. During this time, Mr Gass was the Chair of the Donor Group of the UN Global Compact. In 2006, he was the Vice-President for Western European and Other Group (WEOG) of the Commission on Population and Development, and in 2008 he was the Vice-President (WEOG) of the Executive Board of UNDP/UNFPA. In 2007, he successfully facilitated the landmark TCPR/QCPR Resolution, the periodic review of the General Assembly operational system for development. Mr. Gass also served as Policy and Programme Officer for the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, as Deputy Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Guyana, and as Regional Director for Europe with the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute in Rome. Born in 1963, Thomas Gass holds a PhD in natural sciences from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich and a MSc and engineering diploma in agricultural sciences from the same Institute. He is married and father of three adult children. Lenni Montiel Lenni Montiel was appointed as Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development in the Department of Economic and Social Affairs and took office on 16 January 2015. With almost thirty years of experience, Mr. Lenni Montiel has held strategic positions within the Government of Venezuela and in several international organizations. Throughout his career he has been systematically involved in policy making and analytical work on issues related to economic development. As Director in the Ministry of Planning and in the Ministry of Family Affairs, he contributed to the design of government policies in Venezuela; he was also the lead economist in the team that created the Social Investment Fund of Venezuela in the early 1990s. He also served as Counsellor to the Executive Director for Venezuela and Panama at the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Development Bank. At the UN, Mr. Montiel has built a career as economic and policy adviser to both senior government officials at national and local levels and he has worked in several countries and in different capacities. He was UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan and provided long term policy support to national development efforts in Vietnam, Ukraine, Belarus, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Kazakhstan, Mauritius, Peru, Romania and the Territory of Kosovo. At the Bureau for Development Policy in UNDP in New York, Mr. Montiel was a Senior Policy Adviser leading large teams of policy advisers working around the globe through the management of several professional communities of practice. He was the architecture and Network Facilitator of LOGOV- Innovations in Local Governance Electronic Initiative, that was acknowledged as a Good Practice in the 1998 UNCHS-HABITAT Best Practice International Award. Since 2012, Mr. Montiel worked as Director for Economic, Social and Development Affairs in the Executive Office of the Secretary-General, leading the analytical work in the area of economic and development affairs. Mr. Montiel was trained as an economist in the former Soviet Union, where he received his first university degree and a MSc in Economics National Planning from the Belorussian National Institute of National Planning. He strengthened his academic and research capacities by obtaining a PhD in Public Policy from Birmingham University and a MA on Legislative Studies from the University of Hull in the United Kingdom. Throughout history, times of crisis have yielded extraordinary innovation and social cooperation. Not only has this been essential for conquering many seemingly insurmountable challenges, but it has also shown one of the greatest strengths of human nature: we can best face and overcome crises through joint, creative action. Anthropogenic climate change constitutes one such historical crisis. The UN-REDD Programme, a joint undertaking of FAO, UNDP and UN Environment to fight deforestation and forest degradation, was developed to advance the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and to foster innovative and collaborative approaches to address the existential challenge of climate change. Founded 10 years ago with the sustained and substantial support of Denmark, Japan, Luxembourg, Norway, Spain, Switzerland and the European Union, UN-REDD was the first joint global UN programme on climate change; it has been a pioneer of innovative policy and financing approaches to valuing and protecting forests and their social and ecosystem services. The Programme now encompasses 64 partner countries, and it has become a flagship UN partnership for the Paris Agreement and for delivering on the Sustainable Development Agenda. Today, it is a global knowledge hub for solutions to deforestation and forest degradation and a major world partner in the implementation of nature-based solutions to climate change. The Programme has accompanied its partner countries in improving governance and advancing national policy and institutional systems to safeguard forests and mitigate climate change. Ecuador, for example, with support from the Programme, became the second country after Brazil to meet all the requirements for the REDD+ mechanism (known as the Warsaw Framework for REDD+). Since 2012, Ecuador has reported reductions of over 28 million tonnes of CO 2 emissions; in 2017 it became the first country to receive Green Climate Fund investment to co-finance its national REDD+ Action Plan. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the multifaceted support of the UN-REDD Programme has served the country to put forests at the core of its national development, enacting policy reforms, developing innovative and cross-sectoral investment plans and programmes, increasing technical capacity for efficient data collection, analysis and reporting, and supporting the establishment of a national fund that is a pioneer in national climate finance instruments, thus facilitating the engagement of different national stakeholders, international partners and donors. The UN-REDD Programme has also helped countries take giant steps forward in modernizing their forest monitoring using new technologies, satellite data and open-source software. Measuring forest change is now easier, more cost-effective, faster and more transparent than ever before. Indonesia has also been at the forefront of REDD+ since its inception. With high-level political will, great efforts have been made to reduce its high deforestation rate, supported by new cutting-edge technology and the use of satellite data for forest and peatland monitoring. Recent increased transparency in reporting in the 2018 State of Indonesias Forests publication is showing encouraging signs of a reduction in deforestation in the past 2 years. Commitment to the human rights-based approach, social inclusion and stakeholder engagement are central to the Programmes policy and technical support. In Colombia, the UN-REDD Programme enabled social inclusion nation-wide in forest and climate processes, including the engagement of indigenous, Afro-descendent and local communities. A grassroots vision on REDD+ was developed and then integrated in the national policy arena. These examples show that dedicated support for governance and policy reforms, multi-stakeholder cooperation, technological innovation and institutional capacity building can unleash the potential of forests as the pre-eminent nature-based solution to climate change. This is crucial for the implementation of the Paris Agreement and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Forests are a major, requisite front of action in the global fight against catastrophic climate change thanks to their unparalleled capacity to absorb and store carbon. Forests capture carbon dioxide at a rate equivalent to about one-third the amount released annually by burning fossil fuels. Stopping deforestation and restoring damaged forests, therefore, could provide up to 30 percent of the climate solution. Nevertheless, deforestation remains shockingly high and intractable without major policy and institutional reforms and corresponding governance and financing support in most countries. In fact, agriculture, forestry and other land use (AFOLU) represents 24 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, mainly from deforestation and agricultural emissions. 2020 will mark a pivotal moment in humanitys quest for a sustainable future, when greenhouse gas emissions need to start declining if we are to avoid the most severe impacts of climate change. Increased ambitions for the role of forests in climate change mitigation and adaptation and the UNs innovative and collaborative power must be at the core of this future. Awareness of the need for forest action has never been greater, nor has the ability to deliver transformative change. We are seeing positive momentum and opportunity to take action on forests worldwide driven by governments, civil-society organizations and businesses. We need to continue reforming policies and building partnerships if we are to vastly increase investments in forest conservation, restoration and sustainable use. The UN-REDD Programme is a proven model for the joint creative action we need in order to overcome the climate crisis. Now it is time to scale it up. About the authors Erik Solheim has been Executive Director of UN Environment since 2016. With an extensive career focusing on environment and development, prior to his appointment, Solheim served as chair of the Development Assistance Committee of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. Between 2007 and 2012, he was Norways Minister of the Environment and International Development, and from 2005 to 2007, Minister of International Development. He is the author of three books. Follow him on Twitter: @ErikSolheim Achim Steiner became Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme in June 2017. He also serves as Vice-Chair of the UN Sustainable Development Group, which unites 40 entities of the UN system that work to support sustainable development. Over nearly three decades, Achim Steiner has been a global leader on sustainable development and international cooperation. He has served across the United Nations system, including as head of the UN Environment (2006-2016), and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Nairobi. Follow him on Twitter: @ASteiner Jose Graziano da Silva has been Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations since January 2012. He has worked on food security, rural development, and agriculture issues for over 30 years, notably as the architect of Brazils Zero Hunger (Fome Zero) programme. At the helm of FAO, Graziano da Silva has sharpened the Organizations strategic focus and is strengthening its field presence. He is also working to instill a best value-for-money culture. At the international level, he is working to build consensus on food security-related issues. Follow him on Twitter: @grazianodasilva New York, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Symphony Talent, a leading Talent Acquisition solutions provider, proudly announced today that it received two TAtech Recruiting Service Innovation (ReSIs) Awards of the Year. Symphony Talent was named the 2018 Most Innovative Recruitment Advertising Agency and Sean Quigley, VP/Head of M-Cloud, was honored as the 2018 Innovator/Business Leader. The ReSIs celebrate the innovators and innovations in talent acquisition the sites, organizations, individuals, products, and services committed to optimizing the recruiter experience. The awards are unique as they are selected by the recruiters who actually use the talent acquisition sites and solutions. The awards were presented on September 26 at the Tatech Fall Congress and World Job Board Forum in New Orleans. I am incredibly proud of the Symphony Talent team and their dedication to deliver on our bold vision to transform how brands and talent connect, said Roopesh Nair, President and CEO, Symphony Talent. We will continue challenging ourselves to meet the changing expectations of the social, mobile and digital natives customers, candidates and employees of our clients as we pursue the future of work. According to Nair, September was an outstanding month for awards and recognition for Symphony Talent. The organization was recognized five times, winning awards for product innovation and leadership, in addition to being named to the shortlist in over ten categories of the Recruitment Marketing Awards for client campaigns and as Agency of the Year. Recent industry awards and recognitions for Symphony Talent include: Human Resource Executive awarded Symphony Talents Media Cloud (M-Cloud) solution as one of its Top HR Products of 2018 Gold Stevie Award in the Talent Acquisition & Retention Solution Provider of the Year category in the annual Stevie Awards for Great Employers Symphony Talent was named the ReSIs - Most Innovative Recruitment Advertising Agency of the Year Sean Quigley, VP/Head of M-Cloud, received the ReSIs - Innovator of the Year/ Business Leader of the Year award Bronze Stevie Award in the HR Technology Solution Provider of the Year category in the annual Stevie Awards for Great Employers Symphony Talents in-house creative and brand agency for employers, Hodes, made the shortlist for its client campaigns in the following Recruitment Marketing Awards (RMAs) categories: Best Art Direction - ForrestBrown Best Content Marketing - BBVA Best Grad Initiative - Unilever Best Content Marketing - Unilever Best Grad Initiative - Lazard Best Video (below 10k) - ForrestBrown Best Digital Solution - Team Knowhow Best Video (above 10k) - Unilever Best Recruitment Website (Below 50k) - ForrestBrown Best Employer Brand - ForrestBrown Best Internal Comms - Team Knowhow Symphony Talents in-house creative and brand agency for employers, Hodes, was named to the RMAs shortlist for Agency of the Year. Winners of the RMAs will be announced on November 1 in London. About Symphony Talent Symphony Talent is redefining how brands and talent connect. By applying data-driven consumer marketing best practices to recruitment marketing, we provide seamless, personalized experiences through our award-winning creative, best-in-class smart technology and trusted strategy and client services solutions. We simplify and streamline the process to find, hire and engage talent. Companies such as Northwell Health, Chilis, Advantage EZ Rent-A-Car, UCLA Health, Unilever and UnitedHealth Group rely on Symphony Talent to power their talent acquisition initiatives. For more information, visit: www.symphonytalent.com or follow us on Twitter, @SymphonyTalent_. MAPLE GROVE, Minn., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Local member-owned financial cooperative TopLine Federal Credit Union has been named Best Credit Union in Twin Cities Business Magazines annual Best of Business contest for the second year in a row. The magazines yearly survey asks their readership, "Which companies exemplify true excellence in their respective industries and would they confidently refer to a family member, friend or colleague? and published results in its September issue and online. In naming TopLine as Best Credit Union, the magazine pointed to several qualities that make TopLine stand out, including the credit unions foundation that was established in 2015 to support the cooperative spirit of people helping peopleto connect, care and contribute in the communities it serves with fundraisers for scholarships and donations to local non-profit community partners; financial education and counseling for all ages; and recognition from the Minnesota Credit Union Network for community impact and outreach. Once again we are honored to be recognized as the best credit union by the readers of Twin Cities Business Magazine, says Tom Smith, President and CEO at TopLine Federal Credit Union. We are committed to the betterment of our employees, members and the communities we serve and would like to extend our gratitude for their valued support. We couldnt get to where we are today without having exceptional employees who are passionate about building life-long relationships to help our members and communities with their financial needs, nor without our member-owners and community partners that believe in our philosophy of helping each other. Twin Cities Business Magazine is Minnesotas leading provider of business news, insight, and analysis through daily online news stories, e-newsletters, a monthly print magazine and live events. Along with their readers, they get to know the personalities of our regions most influential leaders, exploring the how behind their success, strategies, and solutions. They discuss todays most pressing issues, examine trends and outlooks, and provide the context, perspective, and information leaders have come to depend upon. TopLine Federal Credit Union , a Twin Cities-based credit union, is Minnesotas 13th largest, with assets of more than $450 million. Established in 1935, the not-for-profit cooperative offers a complete line of financial services, as well as auto and home insurance, from its five branch locations in Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Maple Grove, Plymouth and in St. Pauls Como Park as well as by phone, mobile app and online at www.TopLinecu.com . Membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, attends school or volunteers in Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott or Washington Counties and their immediate family members. Visit us on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TopLineFederalCreditUnion . CONTACT: Vicki Roscoe Erickson Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications TopLine Federal Credit Union verickson@toplinecu.com | 763.391.0872 Published: October 03, 2018 University of Tampa To Host Other Words Literary Conference Oct. 1113 Water: flood, fish, drought, swim, drink, rain, rivers, tears, dams, oceans and other sundry wetness is the theme of this years 2018 Other Words Literary Conference, which will be held on The University of Tampa campus from Thursday, Oct. 11, through Saturday, Oct. 13. Organized by the Florida Literary Arts Coalition and sponsored by UT, the goal of the conference is to bring together writers, editors, agents, publishers, book sellers, grant administrators, directors of writers colonies and retreats, and others to talk about the how to of literary arts: how to write it, make it, sell it, fund it and nurture it. The events that the public and media may attend are as follows: Faculty Reading by Pablo Cartaya, Bob Kunzinger and Gerry LaFemina, Thursday, Oct. 11, from 7:309 p.m., Vaughn Center Trustees Board Room. Cartaya is an award-winning author, speaker, actor and educator, who wrote the acclaimed middle-grade novels The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora and Marcus Vega Doesnt Speak Spanish . Kunzinger is an essay writer who has been published in a variety of publications. LaFemina is an award-winning writer of novels, short stories and poetry. Cartaya is an award-winning author, speaker, actor and educator, who wrote the acclaimed middle-grade novels and . Kunzinger is an essay writer who has been published in a variety of publications. LaFemina is an award-winning writer of novels, short stories and poetry. Featured Reading by Jessica Anthony and Frank X. Gaspar, Friday, Oct. 12, from 7:309 p.m., Scarfone/Hartley Gallery. Anthony is the author of The Convalescent , an Adult Notable Book that was a Barnes and Noble Discover Great New Writers selection, and Chopsticks , a multimedia novel created in collaboration with designer Rodrigo Corral. Gaspar is the author of five collections of poetry and two novels that specialize in American themes or settings, particularly in the Portuguese community. Anthony is the author of , an Adult Notable Book that was a Barnes and Noble Discover Great New Writers selection, and , a multimedia novel created in collaboration with designer Rodrigo Corral. Gaspar is the author of five collections of poetry and two novels that specialize in American themes or settings, particularly in the Portuguese community. Key Note Reading by Peter Meinke, Poet Laureate of Florida, Saturday, Oct. 13, from 4:305:30 p.m., Vaughn Center Reeves Theater. With introduction by Richard Mathews, director of The University of Tampa Press. See more details on the full conference schedule or to register. For more information, contact Lynne Bartis, staff assistant for Graduate and Continuing Studies, at lbartis@ut.edu or (813) 257-3514. TORONTO, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Ontario Energy Association (OEA) is pleased to announce Rob Lister, President and CEO of Oakville Enterprises as Incoming Chair of the OEA. Mr. Lister replaces Outgoing Chair Cynthia Hansen, Executive Vice President Utilities & Power Operations at Enbridge Inc. I am honoured to be appointed to the position of Chair of the Ontario Energy Association Board of Directors. Together we will continue to advance our Association as a strong voice for our sector. We will build on our previous successes and take our mandate further, said Rob Lister, President and CEO of Oakville Enterprises. Mr. Lister has grown Oakville Enterprises and its family of businesses to become a leading energy and infrastructure services organization throughout Ontario and beyond. For over 35 years, Mr. Lister has served and provided leadership in the energy and infrastructure sectors with previous roles at Toronto Hydro, Earth Energy, OZZ Energy Solutions and Horizon Utilities. Mr. Lister is a professional engineer, with a degree in Engineering and Management, and an MBA, both from McMaster University. Working along-side Mr. Lister is the 2019 OEA Board of Directors. Constituted on September 24th, 2018, the Board consists of: Michael Angemeer, Veridian Corporation Steve Baker, Union Gas Ltd. Brian Bentz, Alectra Inc. Max Cananzi, Alectra Utilities Corporation Bryce Conrad, Hydro Ottawa Holding Inc. Mike Crawley, Northland Power Inc. Paul Grod, Rodan Energy Solutions Anthony Haines, Toronto Hydro Corporation Cynthia Hansen, Enbridge Inc. Carl Hayes, Stratejm Inc. Rob Lister, Oakville Enterprises David McFadden, Gowling WLG Tracy Robinson, TransCanada Pipelines Limited Annette Verschuren, NRStor Inc. Please join us in welcoming the new 2019 OEA Board of Directors. We look forward to unravelling complex energy challenges together. Learn more about the OEAs leadership at: www.energyontario.ca About the OEA The Ontario Energy Association (OEA) is the credible and trusted voice of the energy sector. We earn our reputation by being an integral and influential part of energy policy development and decision making in Ontario. We represent Ontarios energy leaders that span the full diversity of the energy industry. For more information: Vince Brescia, President & CEO Ontario Energy Association 416.961.8874 vince@energyontario.ca FRISCO, Texas, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Founders Classical Academy of Frisco, a ResponsiveEd charter school, celebrated the opening of its new campus with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, October 2 at 10710 Frisco Street. The Frisco Chamber of Commerce along with district administrators, local officials, community members, and students participated in the 4:30 p.m. ceremony complete with musical performances by students and faculty. Nearly 500 people were in attendance. This community and the Chamber of Commerce has welcomed us with open-arms and we are thankful to be able to present our brand of classical education to Frisco families, says Headmaster Melanie Sharpless. This ribbon-cutting signifies the strong relationship between the citizens of Frisco and this campus, a relationship that we know will last for many years to come. Founders Classical Academy of Frisco opened in August and serves more than 600 kindergarten through eighth-grade students. Close to 900 students are expected to attend after construction of the adjacent 9-12 grade facility is completed. The 47,000 square-foot school and 15,000 square-foot gymnasium sit on 10 acres just north of Main Street and Toyota Stadium on Frisco Street. ResponsiveEd is a non-profit corporation that operates more than 75 tuition-free public schools throughout Texas and Arkansas, including Premier High Schools, ResponsiveEd Classical Academies, Founders Classical Academies, Quest Academies, iSchool High, and iSchool Virtual Academy. ResponsiveEds mission is to provide hope to students through innovative, character-based, personalized learning environments. To learn more, visit www.ResponsiveEd.com. Stay Connected: Facebook: www.facebook.com/responsiveed Twitter: www.twitter.com/responsiveed LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/responsiveed Instagram: www.instagram.com/responsiveeducation Attachments MEMPHIS, Tenn., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- First Horizon National Corp. (NYSE:FHN) has been named one the 100 Best Adoption-Friendly Workplaces by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. This marks the 10th consecutive time since the list was started 12 years ago. The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption surveyed the nations employers in search of those with the best adoption benefits. In the survey, the Foundation compares financial reimbursement and paid leave given to new adoptive parents. First Horizon is honored to have been recognized for our family-friendly culture, said John Daniel, EVP and Chief Human Resources Officer at First Horizon. We work hard to provide the tools and benefits to help employees fulfill their personal and work responsibilities. Thank you to the Dave Thomas Foundation for continuing to recognize our efforts. First Horizon ranked 15th this year, jumping up 56 spots on the list from 2017. The company doubled its reimbursement for adoption expenses for a maximum of two children each year. Other company-provided adoption assistance benefits include family leave, paid parental leave, and adoption referral resources. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Childrens Bureau , there are more than 65,000 children in the U.S. foster care system waiting to be adopted. Every year, more than 20,000 children in foster care age out of the system without families. The complete list of the Top 100 Best Adoption-Friendly Workplace can be viewed here . The Foundation also recognizes employers by size, industry, best leave and foster care benefits. For more information about First Horizon, visit www.firsthorizon.com . About First Horizon First Horizon National Corp. (NYSE:FHN) provides financial services through its First Tennessee, Capital Bank, FTB Advisors, and FTN Financial businesses. First Horizon operates more than 300 bank locations across the southern U.S. and 28 FTN Financial offices across the entire U.S. Our banking subsidiary was founded in 1864 and has the 14th oldest national bank charter in the country. Our First Tennessee and Capital Bank brands have the largest deposit market share in Tennessee and one of the highest customer retention rates of any bank in the country. We have been ranked by American Banker as No. 5 among the Top 10 Most Reputable U.S. Banks. Our FTB Advisors wealth management group has more than 300 financial advisors across our markets. FTN Financial is a capital markets industry leader in fixed income sales, trading and strategies for institutional customers in the U.S. and abroad. We have been recognized as one of the nations best employers by Forbes, Working Mother and American Banker magazines and the National Association for Female Executives. More information is available at www.FirstHorizon.com . FHN-G First Horizon Contact: Media Relations, Kesha Whitaker (901) 523-4021 Investor Relations, Aarti Bowman, (901) 523-4017 Ida Ruggiero, 81, a medical marijuana patient, at her home in South Jersey, where she discussed her use of cannabis. Connie Chung. Photo: John Lamparski/WireImage In an essay for the Washington Post, veteran broadcaster Connie Chung has revealed that she was molested in college by a doctor who treated her family. When Chung visited him to ask for contraception in the 1960s, she writes, the doctor assaulted her during an examination. While I stared at the ceiling, his right index finger massaged my clitoris. With his right middle finger inserted in my vagina, he moved both fingers rhythmically, Chung wrote. The doctor kissed her, and she was dismissed. At the time, I think I may have told one of my sisters. I certainly did not tell my parents, she wrote. I did not report him to authorities. It never crossed my mind to protect other women. Please understand, I was actually embarrassed about my sexual naivete. I was in my 20s and knew nothing about sex. All I wanted to do was bury the incident in my mind and protect my family. Chung addressed the essay to Christine Blasey Ford, who testified in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Ford said that Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh assaulted her one summer in the 1980s, but couldnt recall an exact date, making her a target of Kavanaughs supporters. I wish I could forget this truthful event, but I cannot because it is the truth, Chung wrote. I am writing to you because I know that exact dates, exact years are insignificant. We remember exactly what happened to us and who did it to us. We remember the truth forever. Photo: LUGIA/VCG via Getty Images The Chinese actress who has been absent from the public eye since June has finally posted on social media, addressing the fines and back taxes she may owe the Chinese government. Fan Bingbing, who is set to appear alongside Bruce Willis in the upcoming film Air Strike, posted on her Weibo account for the first time in months shortly after the penalties were announced, according to The Hollywood Reporter. I failed my country which nurtured me; I failed the society which trusted me; I failed the fans who liked me, she wrote to her 61 million followers. Without the Party and the states good policies, without the love from the people, there would have been no Fan Bingbing. The statement also addresses the financial penalties she now faces: I totally accepted all of them, and will raise funds to pay my taxes and penalties regardless of any obstacles. Though this is the first fans have heard from her in months, its still unclear where she actually is, and whether she is in fact being detained by Chinese authorities as many have speculated. Whatta goofball. Photo: Sony Pictures Digital Productions Inc. A few months ago, director Ruben Fleischer tried to convince the world that his would-be super-franchise starter, Venom, is something it very much isnt. Speaking to the huddled masses at San Diego Comic-Con, he said the titular protagonist would be a grittier, grounded, complicated character, and that there are no heroes in this movie. The much-watched first trailer in which leading gent Tom Hardy grumbles his way through a monologue about life, the universe, and everything while were subjected to scenes of agony and brutality similarly pulled a fast one on us. The PR campaign added up to a pitch for a film that mixed superhero tropes with psychological torture and visceral horror. But in retrospect, we shouldnt have been fooled. This is Fleischer, after all the guy who did Zombieland. Walking out of Venom, youll realize it functions first and foremost as a comedy. And an intentional one, at that. To be fair, a lot of the films laughs are very much not deliberate. At the New York media screening last night, the first big guffaws came during the opening titles, when that world-famous Marvel comic-book-page-flip animation finished and zoomed out to reveal the Marvel logo with the slightly pathetic caveat IN ASSOCIATION WITH above it (this being a Sony picture, not a Disney/Marvel Cinematic Universe one). There were also laughs when, just minutes after establishing that Eddie (Tom Hardy) and Anne (Michelle Williams) are passionately in love, the latter blithely and unemotionally gives him back her engagement ring after he screws one thing up. A certain amount of the overwrought, supervillain-y dialogue from evil scientist Carlton (Riz Ahmed) also elicited giggles at its expense; e.g. a scene where he looks at a human test subject and says, Such poor design, to which a lab tech replies, Im sorry? and Carlton adds, Human beings. But Id argue that such moments are in the minority. The film contains a vast wealth of laughs that emanate from a kind of action-comedy slapstick I sincerely didnt know Tom Hardy had in him. In him is the key phrase there, as we have to wait until about a quarter of the way through the picture for a living goo to enter him and get the goofs going. For those not familiar with the setup to the whole Venom concept, dating all the way back to the Spider-Man comics of the 1980s, its relatively simple: theres this alien organism called a symbiote (side note: the filmmakers must have seen the backlash to the sim-bye-oat pronunciation from the first trailer and done some dialogue rerecording, because in the finished product, everyone says the less-goofy sim-bee-oat or the traditional-for-Spider-Man-media sim-bee-uht) that takes over peoples bodies and speaks to them within their brains. The symbiote, whose alien name is translated to Venom, is generally pretty violent in its philosophy and has a hankering for the consumption of flesh. In the film, Eddie unwillingly becomes its host. Once the pair are bonded, their life together becomes something of a one-man buddy comedy and a delightful one. Theyre a lovely mismatch: Eddie the cerebral pacifist and Venom the bloodthirsty marauder. Eddie needs Venom, as hes a wanted man: Carltons sinister Life Foundation has been doing symbiote experiments and wants its property back, after which time theyll ice poor Eddie. So Venom engages in vicious CGI combat with the baddies, exerting superstrength and flailing around his protean black-goop appendages to stab and toss folks hither and thither. Venom speaks as a voice in Eddies head and the latter is constantly trying to get the former to tone down the bloodletting a little bit, or at the very least explain what the hell is going on. The result is Hardy, in not one but two of his signature weird vocal performances the Noo Yawk grumbles and whines of Eddie and the overnunciated gut-punch mega-whisper of Venom having a series of dialogues with himself. Theyre often fantastic. I dont want to spoil all the good exchanges, as theyre by and large perfectly timed and often surprising, but a few examples will suffice. You are a loser, Eddie. Venom bellows to him at one point; Eddie replies, You gonna eat anybody else? and Venom says, Most likely. Later, while trying to escape some henchmen in a tall building, Venom screams at Eddie, Jump! we then cut to Eddie opting to take the elevator. Theres a beat. Then Venom simply intones, Pussy. My personal favorite comes at a tender moment between Eddie and Anne, when Venom very earnestly says, Aww. Thats nice. Okay, so not all of these work on paper, but a significant part of what allows them to land is the expert pacing of the sound edits and Hardys deft line readings. But if you like Hardys vocals, youll love his physical work. This aspect one definitely cant capture in writing, but Ill do my best. Rarely has bodily possession been conveyed with such delicious weirdness. The thespian has these moments where he is in total control of his muscles as Eddie tries to one thing while the symbiote does another; for example, he one time raises his hands in surrender while Venom pulls them back down for attack, then back to surrender, then attack, and so on. You can see Eddies face contorted in shock that any of this is happening, sending a message to his assailants that hes as confused as they are. (Youre making us look bad! the symbiote silently yells.) Or there are the multiple times where Venom craves food and Eddie jets toward some bit of meat or another and shoves it in his face while his eyes tell us he doesnt have any idea whats happening. Its like watching Robin Williams in his prime. Oh, and speaking of eating: reader, consider the lobster. Perhaps the comedic height of the flick comes at a restaurant that Eddie/Venom bursts into a fancy dining establishment to ask questions of Annie and her new boyfriend Dan (a perfectly cast Reid Scott, whose mere presence causes fans of Veep to chuckle at his comforting smarm). He hungers and keeps grabbing other diners food against his will, at one point holding a steak and screaming This is dead! But none of it is enough, and he eventually climbs into a lobster tank and settles himself in with a sigh of comfort, as though he were entering a bubble bath. He digs down beneath himself, grabs a lobster, and just tears into the poor thing. The frenzied look on Hardys face is worth the price of admission. As is the opposites-attract vibe of his dual performance, in general. Much of the picture falls flat, but the Eddie/Venom dynamic is aces and lives up to the Zombieland legacy. Barring any Billionaire Boys Clublevel flopping, a Venom sequel is inevitable. As long as Hardy and Hardy are back, Ill shell out a few bucks to see it. I can always use a giggle or two. Adam Driver on Saturday Night Live. Photo: NBC Saturday Night Lives season 44 premiere graced us with a completely relatable and timely character: Adam Drivers withered oil baron Abraham H. Parnassus. Freshman writer Eli Coyote Mandel delivered the breakout sketch, which touched on the posturing masculinity of our current era without making Matt Damon wear a fake nose about it. Heres what its like to produce your first sketch for SNL, and why Mandel thinks birds are so weird and gross. What was the genesis of this sketch? The very beginnings of it were in an improv scene five years ago, in Chicago. I think I was just playing an old, old man. I was doing something with my cane as the old guy you know, hilarious improv comedy. And then my friend Dan White was like, Oh my God, hes crushing bird underneath his cane! It was kind of funny at the time. I was thinking, It would be funny if he were extremely old. Whats a way he could do that and shout in this elevated language? So at some point, he became an oil baron. I did it like four or five times in Chicago and forgot about it. And then when I heard Adam Driver was going to host This was my first episode ever, by the way. Congratulations! Thank you. I got hired like two weeks ago. So when I heard it was going to be Adam Driver I was thinking about things for him. I thought he would probably be very good at my weird oil baron thing. So I had to expand it and make it a five-minute scene instead of a 45-second character. Why oil baron and not railroad tycoon, or sweatshop owner, or other type of Gilded Age industrialist? The main thing that I wanted was for it to be completely visceral so that the language lets you feel it. And I feel like oil is such a weird, disgusting substance. That line mothers milk is the thing that comes to mind. The earths milk, I heard someone say. I thought it was such a disgusting, partially sexual phrase that tickled me for some reason. I also feel like we dont have oil barons anymore. Its a thing that we dont think of, not anymore. What do you think a day in this guys life is like? He gets up and sits at a giant desk in his home. And then, every so often, an extremely old secretary or assistant will come in and drop off a thing. Hell eat a bunch of boiled eggs or whatever and go to sleep at 4 p.m. This was your first episode. How was the process for pitching the sketch, and going through all the steps of production, for the first time? Yeah, that was insane. Everyones been great. Around 10 p.m. [on Tuesday, writing night], I sent it over to one of the head writers. They gave me some good notes like [Melissa Villasenor] is maybe more into it. Then the next day is the table read. By the way, before every step of this process Im thinking, This sucks, Im a fraud, and theyre gonna find me out. I hate everything about this; its not funny. Luckily I came in with two other writers from Chicago, Alison Gates and Alan Linic. They both read it and said it was good. I said, Youre lying; its terrible. But then it went to table read. And right before table read, you can go around and give the cast a note or two. I had to go into Adam Drivers dressing room and give him a quick talk. But when I went in there, hed already read it and already had an idea of what he was going to do. Its 150 percent Adam Driver doing it and being extremely good at acting. I lucked out so hard with him. They go into Lornes office and choose which sketches are going to be put on. Mine was put on. And then I didnt know what to do. They assigned Bryan Tucker a more senior writer there whos great and a Very Funny Comedy Man and he took me through the production process. He showed me where I was supposed to go and what I was supposed to do and answered all my questions. He helped me out with literally everything, because I did not know what was happening. From there, I met with the production team, all the designers, and they were great. They truly crushed it. Did you get to choose the cane and the bird? Did they hold up an owl and a crow, and after much deliberation you chose the crow? Yes. In the initial production meeting, they wanted to know what kind of props wed need, and I said wed need a cane and a bird. They asked what kind of bird I want, and I said, Um seagull? It was cool they asked me what I wanted the high school to be named, and I went with my high school: Sierra High School. So they put on the sign out front Sierra High School, my actual high school in Tollhouse, California. And the class was Ms. Linders class, my favorite teacher from high school. That was cool when some friends from high school caught that. At rehearsal they showed me some cane options, and I picked what I thought was a good cane. They were working on the bird, so they had a stand-in bird at the initial rehearsal. Adam really didnt want to crush it all that much for that first go. At dress, they showed me this seagull that was full of beans. We used that at the dress rehearsal, and I loved it. Did you say beans? It was kind of like a beanie baby with bird wings on it. Thats not what we wound up using live, but I liked it because it fell with a disgusting thud. And when Adam crushed it with his cane, it kind of crunched. But a big note I got after dress was that we had to cut that bird, because it was disgusting. We changed the bird, and I was a little bit nervous about it. But when I saw that cane going through that birds heart, oh boy. It warmed mine to no end. That worked out so well. So you had the idea for the sketch back in Chicago, but just as a character piece you were doing. Was it part of what you did to get hired? No, it was just a piece Id done a couple times and had in the back of my head. I was a little worried because I did audition with a different piece that involved crushing a bird. But in a much different context! I dont want to be known as the bird-crushing comedian. Thats too bad, because its going to be the headline of this interview. Eli Coyote Mandel, bird-crushing comic? Yeah. Cool, great. But there was another thing with a bird involved that I auditioned with. I liked the visceral weirdness of a bird. May I ask what bird-crushing was in that? I was a guy in confessional: Forgive me Father, for I have sinned Im just going to get to it: I ate a bird today. And it turns out that a bird had flown into his mouth and he didnt know what to do, so he just ate it. And they seemed to enjoy that. So do you hate birds? Or do you love them? Whats with the birds? I have no strong opinions on birds! I do think theyre weird. Because they aint dogs, and they aint cats, so what the hell is they? Its the most close-to-nature animal you will see in a city. And you will be reminded that there are other worlds out there when you see a bird in a non-woods setting. Right, and theyre so otherworldly. Im from the country originally. Im from the middle of nowhere, so there were animals all around me, but birds: What are they? In college, I took a dinosaurs class and I found out that they are dinosaurs. They are straight-up dinosaurs. So weird. Tana French. Photo: Kathrin Baumbach Tana French is an author of murder mysteries who is less concerned with whodunit than with the inner lives of her detectives. In her first book, In the Woods, which came out in 2007, she let what actually happened to a pair of vanished children remain a mystery because she didnt think her detective was equipped to face the truth. French, a Dubliner who originally trained as a stage actor, has published six more books since, each one further cementing her reputation as a writer of cultic devotion, as The New Yorker put it. The announcement of her latest, this spring, was met with feverish anticipation and a scramble for advance copies the novelist Jeff VanderMeer pleaded on Twitter: Who do I have to offer bird seed and bark butter to to get an advance copy of the new Tana French?! Shes famously good at a particularly eerie brand of red herring that alluring detail that seems like the key to solving the crime, only to prove a clever bit of misdirection. In The Witch Elm, out this month, she breaks from her own convention by writing from the perspective not of a detective but of the victim of a crime. Still, the same rules apply: Frenchs red herrings are not just shiny lures but windows into her protagonists deepest fears and flaws. Here, she walks us through how she lays the tracks, starting with the red-herring masters she admires. For sheer plot, Agatha Christie does them well youre going off in 18 different directions at once. Thats a very different thing from what Im doing, but its so satisfying because every single one seems like it could make complete sense. Amys diary in Gone Girl has to be one of my favorites because its such a double-back. According to all the conventions, we should be getting the most intimate possible view of her there. And then it turns around and pulls the rug out from underneath us. It gives you an insight not just into Amy, but what it feels like being around Amy. Every single step that leads you down the wrong path is so necessary for your understanding of the character. Im always more interested in mystery books where whodunit? isnt the biggest question of all. Even if the red herring doesnt feed into whodunit, because of course it cant, it feeds into more integral questions: What makes the detective go down that sidetrack? What interplay of characters, or set of relationships, has led to this red herring existing? What does the detective find out about herself down that sidetrack that furthers the character? I always start out with a really solid idea of who the protagonist the narrator is, and a decent idea of what he or she is facing, and then I feel my way through. A bunch of times Ive started off writing something thinking, This might be the solution and then going, This totally cant be the solution, it doesnt fit but I can see why the narrator might want it to be the solution. And then it turns out to be a red herring all along. When I started writing Broken Harbor, I felt there was a decent chance that Connor, the old family friend whos been watching from the house across the way, was actually the killer. I was writing with that in mind for a while before I realized, That doesnt really add up in any way, but the narrator, Scorcher Kennedy, is really going to want it to be him. So its okay that thats the way the book is going. Broken Harbor is a book about people who have followed all the rules. The couple at the heart of it did what my generation was told to do during the housing boom: You have to buy somewhere! I know you cant afford anywhere decent, but buy somewhere in the middle of nowhere! In five years, when house prices skyrocket, youll be able to sell that to some other poor sucker and buy something wonderful! A lot of people went for it, and they were devastated. The rules turned around and kicked them in the teeth when the housing crash came. Scorcher believes you have to follow the rules because your mind is an untrustworthy place, so the red herrings in Broken Harbor had to be forces of chaos, forces that did not stick to what the world was supposed to be. Connor is somebody who has broken all the rules hes a freelancer, hes not married, hes squatting in this house with a sleeping bag. He is the chaotic thing they all fear. The red herrings are focused around the narrators and, in this case, the victims fears. Detectives are especially susceptible to red herrings in my books because I write about cases where the barrier between the personal and the professional is eroding. It isnt solid enough to withstand whatever pressure is coming at it. If the personal starts to intrude, then their own needs, biases, and the things they desperately want to see for their own reasons are going to start overriding the facts that normally would be top priority in their professional life. Thats when things get interesting, when youve got those two layers, the professional and the personal, squashing together, overlapping, conflicting. In my first book, In the Woods, more than anything, I was thinking about what clues would cause the most interesting series of reactions in Rob, my detective, rather than how various clues would fit into the solution to the crime. As the plot gradually grew, I started to think, Okay, which of these things could be the solution? Which would lead him down the wrong trail? Originally, I threw in Robs relationship with Rosalind, the murdered girls sister, because I thought it would be interesting for him to deal with a person left behind after a crime. He is, himself, a scarred survivor, and he projects everything that he needs to see onto Rosalind, everything he wants to fix and heal and rewrite. In Robs mind, the scarred survivor cant possibly be, in any way, guilty that isnt a possibility on a subconscious level. Instead, he suspects the victims father. I think thats quite a good red herring because not everybody would fall for that. The fact that Rob does tells us a lot about him. Rewriting a red herring is the toughest part. When youre going back and changing what you had thought might be a solution to a red herring, it completely ruins the situation. When I realized that Connor wasnt the murderer in Broken Harbor, that was a massive pain. I remember sitting there and swearing at my computer because I was going to have to go back and rewrite huge amounts of this damn book. If something is actually a red herring that Im going to follow through for the whole course of the book, I have to seed it carefully, at the same pace and with the same level of thoroughness, that I would develop it if it were in fact the solution. Otherwise the narrator and the reader arent going to follow it along that trail. The difference is, the actual solution has to be seeded more subtly. You cant make it as obvious as the red herring, or the narrator would be too quick to it. Now, how about the reader? Should she be fooled? I write from the characters perspective, and I think thats an advantage, because youre shown only what the narrator sees. If the narrator is flawed, it makes it easier to fool the reader because youre not withholding anything, youre just presenting it through that lens which is a distorted lens, inevitably. But theres also the fact that a lot of the time, its okay if the reader doesnt fall for what the character falls for. Its okay if the readers going, I think she might be getting a little bit biased here, or he might be going a little off track. In The Trespasser in particular, theres a point at which its quite easy for the reader to see that Antoinette, the detective, is not seeing the case clearly. Shes on really bad terms with most of the murder squad, and theres a certain amount of harassment against her. Because of this atmosphere, her sense of reality has been sent off-kilter. She gets to the point where she sees herself as a persecuted warrior fighting off millions, and the red herrings that get her are anything that reinforce this narrative, anything that implies a dark and sinister conspiracy against her. At a certain point, it becomes easy for a reader to think, Whoa, she has completely gone overboard on this idea that the whole squad is out to get her! In fact, thats where I want the reader to be. My books are about the characters arc almost more than the arc of the mystery. If at some point those perspectives diverge the narrators and the readers that can be an interesting thing for the reader, to give them a further perspective on the character and where theyre going. If youre going to have a red herring in there, it had better be good enough that the audience can either be fooled by it or can see why your narrator will be fooled by it. You have to respect the audiences intelligence. Theres a point, in every single book, when I go, What if there is not a good answer here? What if Ive somehow put together a bunch of pieces that are absolutely not going to form a coherent whole? So much of this is your subconscious working. Youre just bumping along, hoping that your subconscious will throw something in that, in a couple chapters time, or a months time, you can look back and go, Hey! That looks interesting. You can maybe do something with it. *This article appears in the October 1, 2018, issue of New York Magazine. Subscribe Now! Rihanna. Photo: Angela Weiss/AFP/Getty Images Someone call Alexis Neiers theres a new Bling Ring in town. On Tuesday, the Los Angeles Police Department announced that it had arrested three teens who are suspected of burglarizing A-list celebrities and athletes. Over the past few months, burglars have broken into the Hollywood-area homes of Rihanna, Christina Milian, and Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig; police say they believe the incidents to be connected. On September 27, after Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Robert Woodss home was broken into, police arrested 19-year-old Jshawne Lamon Daniels, 19-year-old Tyress Lavon Williams, and 18-year-old Damaji Corey Hall, all of whom were charged with burglary. (Halls mother, 34-year-old Ashle Jennifer Hall, was also arrested and charged with grand theft.) At press conference on Tuesday, LAPD commanding officer Lillian L. Carranza revealed that the department believed the recent burglaries to be related, saying, [We] have become aware of a series of residential burglaries targeting actors, producers, musicians, and professional athletes living in the Los Angeles area. Carranza elaborated that the burglars tracked the social-media profiles and tour schedules of potential targets to ensure that the residences were vacant. Then, they would allegedly dress themselves in designer clothes and drive to the chosen celebritys home in a luxury car in an attempt to fit in. Before breaking in, though, Carranza said the suspects would change into more comfortable clothing and hoodies to avoid being recognized. According to police, the suspects went into houses looking for everything from firearms to cash to designer goods; when the LAPD searched the homes of the suspects, they found luxury watches and jewelry, as well as $50,000 in cash. They also discovered a list of celebrity names including Viola Davis, LeBron James, and Matt Damon, who police believe were potential targets. The investigation is still ongoing, as police believe there are more outstanding suspects. The suspects remain in custody. This Is Us A Philadelphia Story Season 3 Episode 2 Editors Rating 3 stars * * * Previous Next Photo: Ron Batzdorff/NBC We are most definitely embarking on a be careful what you wish for situation with This Is Us. We wanted to see what life was like for the Pearsons in the direct aftermath of Jacks death, but I am here to report that Ive seen what that life is like and holy hell, is it depressing. Of course, the young family would be intensely grieving over the death of their patriarch just months after the fire theyre still intensely grieving it in the present day but more than sad, life for the Pearsons post-Jack is bleak. Throughout the entire late-90s story line in A Philadelphia Story, I couldnt help but think about how upset Jack would be to see his family like this. Cant someone get these people a moving and sentimental speech or something? Anyone? From what we see in this episode, Randall is the one who keeps the family together. Kates eating her feelings, Kevin is drunk all the time, Rebecca is walking around like a zombie, and Randall is the only one who seems to notice any of it. After a particularly horrifying display of how broken his family is during a tour of a new house Rebeccas hearing Jack in her head and responding aloud, Kate announces that she never sent her callback tape to Berklee Randall has some harsh words for his mother. She promised them that she would take care of them, of everything, and she lied. Its a gut punch, especially coming from Rebeccas rock, especially when you recognize it is being said by a child to his parent. Later, he tries to apologize, but Rebecca only wants to explain. She is exhausted. Getting out of bed every day is such a challenge, that she has nothing left. She is riddled with guilt Jack had taken her to a house just months before the fire, and now she wonders where theyd be if she had just let him buy it. Shes trying her best to just hang on. Its a lot for a teenager to take in (its a lot for me to take in, hold me!), but seeing his mother unable to really function is the last straw. Theres no way he can go to Howard and just leave these people like thishe calls the admissions office and retracts his acceptance. We know Randall meets Beth at Howard, so he does end up there, but this gesture at such a young age reinforces the Randall weve already come to love. Its interesting that as we are clearly seeing Randall taking ownership of his role within the Pearson family, in the present-day timeline hes being reminded of the issue thats plagued him for his entire life: He never feels like he truly fits in anywhere. He realizes that Deja isnt completely comfortable in her very white new school. Although he does not agree with her objection to a club for milk enthusiasts, he decides to take her to the rec center near Williams building and introduce her to some people there, most especially a girl named Sky, who is around her age. At the rec center, Randall sits with Skys mother, Chichi (Yetide Badaki), whom we also discover was very close with William (more on that later!), and notices how run down the rec center is. Hes going to do something about it. Its time to Randall Pearson this place! His first step is to go to Councilman Brown and ask for help. The councilman likes Randall, and promises to send a maintenance crew over to get started on repairs but he never does. So Randall takes it upon himself to clean up what he can. But he doesnt get the response he was hoping for. Randall tells Chichi that we deserve better than this. Chichi is quick to remind Randall that they are not a we. She loved William (who doesnt?) and sees so much of him in Randall (tears), but Randall is not one of them (hey!). He spent the whole day at the rec center, and instead of getting to know the people there, he simply looked around for problems to fix. Sometimes, dont you wish you could pull a TV character aside for a chat? I so badly want to tap on Chichis shoulder and be like, Oh, lady, you have no idea. This hits Randall hard. When he meets the Pearson clan at Kevins Hill 400 premiere, Beth can tell somethings off. He explains that he feels like hes always either trying to hard or not trying hard enough, depending on who he is with and what they want from him. He still has yet to find a place where he fits in. It is such a heartbreaking moment that I gasped. Youd think Randall couldnt feel any worse in that moment, but then you probably forgot what show youre watching. Before the movie starts, Kevin fills him in on the events of the day: Kate and Rebecca had it out over the dangers of Kate going through IVF at her weight, but Kate wants to risk it because shes the only one in the family who can pass on a piece of their dad and well, Randall doesnt hear anything else Kevin has to say because that right there rips his heart open. Obviously, Kate meant what she said in a biological manner, but she doesnt even realize how that statement might sound to Randall, as if Jack isnt a part of him at all. If youre keeping score, thats the second hurtful rejection Randall has to face that day. Randall has to internalize whatever hes feeling because the movie is about to begin. This is just the beginning of exploring that story line, but you guys, I cannot wait for some hardcore Big Three internal drama. Have at it, Pearson kids! Can we chat about William for a second? I mean, the theme of this entire recap is Things That Make Us Sad, so why not, right? We flash back to 14 or so years prior (how old is Sky?) to see a younger-looking William meeting a pregnant Chichi at his apartment building for the first time. Shes hesitant to let him in, but eventually he wins her over as only William can do. He invites her to the rec center, where he has his NA meetings, and introduces her and her newborn to his family. The family hes created for himself. He knows Chichi is all alone her husband died before they emigrated from Nigeria and wants to give her this gift. No wonder she tells Randall that she loved his father so much, that she misses him. Doesnt just seeing Ron Cephas Jones make your heart heavy? In a show full of characters meant to make you sad, does he make you the saddest? This Is the Rest Hey, remember when Rebecca and Kate made nicey-nice at Kates wedding? Yeah, thats all over once Rebecca finds out Kate is trying IVF. She once helped a friend with a daughter going through it, so obviously, Rebecca knows everything. She most certainly knows how dangerous it is for someone of Kates size and there it is, Kates weight has always been a trigger for their fraught relationship. Dont they get tired of talking about it? Thankfully, Rebecca does have a moment to explain herself. As she ends up being the one to give Kate her hormone injection, she tells Kate that after Jack died, she didnt think shed ever recover and if something were to happen to Kate, well, she knows she wouldnt. Shes hard on her, but Rebecca loves her bug! The withdrawal symptoms from Toby quitting his antidepressants have started to kick in. Hes super-horny, his leg wont stop shaking, and hes yelling at Pearsons. This downward spiral should be super-fun to watch. Kudos to the eagle-eyed commenter who noticed that in the flash-forward we saw last week, Old Toby is not wearing his wedding ring. The mystery continues! After Randall finds out hes been accepted to Howard, he and Rebecca celebrate until she says, Im going to wake up Kevin and tell him the news. Im sorry, has this woman ever met Kevin? Ms. Yvette and her son are back! Although watching Randall look at Yvette and her husband dancing and be reminded of his own parents stomped right on my heart, I was happy to see her again. Is she still alive? Are they friends with her? Tell me things about Yvette, show! Is Miguel my favorite person on this show right now? Between the suit-and-tie slide, the sarcasm in his Rebecca knows everything about IVF moment, and the disdain with which he says Eloise and Plaza, Miguel is becoming a regular ol Beth. Zoe is finally getting serious about Kevin. GIVE ME A DOUBLE DATE WITH THEM AND BETH AND RANDALL OR GIVE ME DEATH. Tess is in a Taylor Swift Appreciation club at school. I need more time to process that. I have two dead fathers that Im constantly trying to make proud. Whyyyyyy. Gone With the Wind. Photo: Courtesy Everett Collection In classic Hollywood movies, having a baby was an exercise in innuendo. Actors could say the word baby, but not the word pregnant. They could say a woman went to the doctor just as long as they were vague about it. Baby bumps were rare. And loud, wailing labor scenes? Totally out of the question. Much like nudity, pregnancy was a touchy subject under the Production Code, a set of rules that studio films were expected to follow between 1934 and 1968. The code told filmmakers what they could and couldnt include in movies, cautioning against impolite subjects such as prostitution or brutal murders. While there was nothing in the code that said you couldnt talk about pregnant women or pregnant bodies, there was a ban on scenes of childbirth and it was understood that you shouldnt dwell on the nine months that led up to that. This uneasy approach to pregnancy led to a lot of strange phrasing and staging, which persisted for several decades. The fact that all female characters couldnt really address or even hint at a uniquely female condition makes a dark kind of sense when you consider that the Production Code is best understood through its architects, who were very male and very Catholic. While womens groups were part of the broad coalition of outraged moviegoers calling for censorship in the 1920s and 1930s, the actual authors of the code were conservative men. The text was written by a priest (Father Daniel Lord) and a religious publisher (Martin Quigley), while the day-to-day enforcement fell to an Irish-Catholic father of six who had previously worked press relations for the Eucharistic Congress. Joseph Breen left PR behind to run the Production Code Administration (PCA) in 1934, serving as the chief censor for nearly 20 years. As Thomas Doherty details in his Breen biography Hollywoods Censor, the man prized his deep-set, inherent, and instinctive respect for women and for the sanctity of the home and the imperishability of the Christian family. That respect was reflected in many of Breens rulings on onscreen adultery and divorce, topics which he routinely railed against. But its also apparent in code-era Hollywoods handling of pregnancy. Although the code only banned scenes of actual childbirth, in fact or in silhouette, any frank discussion of pregnancy was off the table. Pregnancy or expected blessed events, should never be discussed as such in screen stories, Olga J. Martin, Breens former secretary, wrote in the unofficial code companion, Hollywoods Movie Commandments. Any direct or crude reference to pregnancy in films is considered out-of-place, exactly as it would be in any normal society where children are present. So what did this mean for movies with pregnant characters? Well, they couldnt look pregnant, for starters. Movies from this time period preferred, as scholar Kelly Oliver puts it, to skip from romance and marriage to instant family. On occasion, a pregnant character might walk around in an oversize robe (like Mary Astor in 1941s The Great Lie) or a large dark coat (like Barbara Stanwyck in 1950s No Man of Her Own) that betrayed a bulge. But glossing over the second and third trimesters was preferable. Even The Miracle of Morgans Creek, the boundary-pushing 1944 comedy about a knocked-up teenager who cant remember the soldier she married, was skittish about pregnant bodies. Right before she goes to the hospital to deliver, Trudy (Betty Hutton) is filmed in an armchair, the camera facing her back. Later she slides into the backseat of a car, her stomach still never seen not even later in hospital, as nurses dance in the hallway over her six (!) bouncing baby boys. Pregnant characters also couldnt say the word pregnant. It was simply too explosive, so movies had to find another way to break the news. In Miracle of Morgans Creek, for example, Trudy communicates her pregnancy to her sister by crying outside the doctors office. Shes also vague with her childhood friend Norval, simply saying shes sure shes married. Sometimes a character might say they were going to have a baby, but euphemisms were frequently deployed instead a tradition that extended to television, too. Childbirth itself was an even thornier topic, since it was the one aspect strictly forbidden in the code. But some movies managed to fight the rule. The most famous was Gone With the Wind, which shows Melanie (Olivia de Havilland) in premature labor. In a memo to producer David O. Selznick, Breen advised him to delete any action or dialogue which throws emphasis upon the pain and suffering of childbirth, suggesting it was enormously dangerous from the standpoints of both the Production Code and of political censorship. According to scholars Leonard J. Leff and Jerold L. Simmons, the problem here was the message communicated to women watching the movie that the pain of childbirth could surpass the joy but despite Breens complaints, the scene stayed in the movie, with a few alterations. The PCA handled a more explicit case in 1958, when the French film The Case of Dr. Laurent arrived Stateside. The pseudo-documentary made the case for natural childbirth through an actual scene depicting it, which prompted Breens successor Geoffrey Shurlock to reject the movie for U.S. distribution. But The Case of Dr. Laurent received such a warm reception outside the PCA that Shurlock changed his mind. He reversed his decision, approving the movie and reexamining the code stance on pregnancy and childbirth entirely. This review resulted in a less restrictive approach to pregnancy in movies, by scholar David A. Kirbys account. By the time the PCA and the code ended in 1968, pregnant characters were no longer hiding behind chairs. Barbra Streisand mined a belly bump for laughs in Funny Girl, where she vamped across the stage in a straining wedding dress, while Mia Farrow carried Satans little miracle in Rosemarys Baby. The instant family phase of movie history was officially over, another relic of the code era. But turn on TCM today and youll see actress after actress hinting at a condition she cant actually name only to appear in the next scene swinging a toddler on her hip. Washington, DC, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) supports the trade deal reached by negotiators Sunday, September 30th. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), a trilateral agreement, is essential to the continued economic prosperity of the region. Since the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was established in 1994, trade between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada more than tripled. Today, roughly 14 million U.S. jobs depend on NAFTA, and U.S. companies have built supply chains that span North America. Before NAFTA was first signed, it was difficult for small and mid-sized businesses to access international markets. The USHCC is reassured that the trilateral relationship will stay in place under USMCA. Our increasingly globalized world is a growing opportunity for American businesses, said Ramiro Cavazos, USHCC President & CEO. This trade agreement will help American business owners access new international markets and remain globally competitive. This is especially true for Hispanic-American small business owners, who sell more products and services internationally than non-minority small business owners. The USHCC stands ready to support this important trade deal with the three respective governments. About USHCC The USHCC actively promotes the economic growth, development, and interests of more than 4.37 million Hispanic-owned businesses, that combined, contribute over $700 billion to the American economy every year. It also advocates on behalf of 260 major American corporations and serves as the umbrella organization for more than 200 local chambers and business associations nationwide. For more information, please visit ushcc.com. Follow us on Twitter @USHCC. Athens resident, Gregory Dollins, was arrested on Monday after marijuana plants, over $11,000 of stolen property, a counterfeiting device and counterfeit money were found in his possession by the Limestone County Sheriff's Office. The Sheriff's Office discovered the illegal items while they were seeking another suspect, Rebecca Fralix, who is connected to a recent theft. She has been arrested and is now in custody of a jail in Giles County, Tennessee, awaiting to be extradited to the Limestone County Jail. Investigators were looking for Fralix at a mobile home park on East Limestone Road when a woman told them she had been in a confrontation with her brother, Dollins, because she'd refused to plant his marijuana plants. She said that he was selling methamphetamine from her trailer. Twenty juvenile marijuana plants were seized from the scene. Fralix was allegedly living in a trailer from which she was stealing items to trade with Dollins for narcotics. Dollins was apprehended when he arrived to the scene with a stolen saw while investigators were still there. Dollins is being held in the Limestone County Jail on charges of Illegal Possession of Marijuana 1st Degree, Receiving Stolen Property 1st Degree, Possession of a Forged Instrument 1st Degree, Possession of a Forgery Device and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. His bond is set at $20,000. Service and internet provider AT&T is looking to hire customer service representatives. The company will host an open house hiring event on Thursday, October 4th. The event is from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the AT&T call center at 400 Diamond Drive Huntsville, AL 35806. The company employs over 4,800 people in the state of Alabama and offers a full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), tuition reimbursement and paid vacation. Customer service reps can make up to $16.12 per hour. For more information on how to apply, click here. The WAAY 31 I- team just received a six hundred page document from the state about a man who was paroled and now stands accused of murdering three people in Guntersville. Jimmy Spencer was paroled in a November 2017 parole hearing, despite the fact that he was supposed to be serving a life sentence for crimes he committed in Franklin County. Spencer was let out of prison on January 22, 2018. Jimmy O'Neal Spencer's 2017 mugshot from the Alabama Department of Corrections. Jimmy O'Neal Spencer's 2017 mugshot from the Alabama Department of Corrections. WAAY 31 currently has 600 pages of Jimmy Spencer's disciplinary actions taken against him over the 30 years he was in prison. Some are small disciplinary actions from smoking a cigarette and having a cell phone. Others are more serious like having inmate-made whiskey, starting a fight and one incident that ended with him being stabbed. Keep in mind we have only been able to go through about 100 documents at this time. These documents show that Spencer continued to be violent in prison and break the rules. These documents or disciplinary reports follow an inmate around and are kept in a large file. According to past parole board members, an inmate's file should include these disciplinary reports, and parole board members are supposed to go through these documents before considering someone for parole. Along with Spencer's previous wrap sheet and life sentence, he was charged with breaking out of prison three times and charged with assaulting another inmate. Out of the 100 pages we've gone through, we have found at least 12 disciplinary reports ranging from 2008 up until only a few days before he was released from prison in January 2018. In 2008, reports show Spencer was cut by another inmate after they got into an argument over cleaning duties. Spencer refused to cooperate with correction officers on the case. From 2009-2016, Spencer had six disciplinary reports for intentionally creating a safety or health hazard. According to the documents, in 2009 Spencer said he took 8 to 10 blood pressure pills, because he was having family problems. He also intentionally cut himself in 2016 to be moved to another block. In 2011, two disciplinary reports were filed for contraband. In one incident, officers found two gallons of inmate-made whiskey in Spencer's cell. In a separate incident, they found tomato puree in his cell. In 2014, reports show Spencer's cellmate got in trouble for having a cell phone that Spencer confessed was his. He said in this written statement, "I am a grown man, and I take responsibility for my actions." The most disturbing documents show Spencer continued to be violent while in prison. In June 2014, Spencer admitted to hitting another inmate in the face over a cell phone. Spencer was serving a life sentence for burglary and according to these documents, his thefts didn't stop while in prison. In April 2016, another disciplinary report was filled after Spencer stole his cellmate's coffee while he was asleep. In all of these disciplinary reports, Spencer plead guilty or was found guilty and lost his privileges for 15 to 45 days. Two weeks before Spencer was released from prison, he had another disciplinary action filed against him for having a cellphone charger. The parole board stated they paroled Jimmy Spencer because he had a positive conduct record and had a low to medium chance of re-offending, but these documents show he was breaking the rules up until the time he got out. Three weeks after Spencer was paroled to a facility in Birmingham, he walked away. He was supposed to be at the facility for six months. Spencer then had numerous run-ins with police and got arrested in June 2018 on drug charges in Sardis. Spencer now stands accused of murdering three people, including a child in Guntersville. UPDATE: The Alabama Ethics Commission told WAAY 31 that Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakey was notified of the ethics charges against him. The Director of the Commission, Tom Albritton, said "He was notified as was his legal counsel, as all respondents are, of the charges against him and he was given an opportunity to appear before the commission if he chose to do so." On Wednesday, Sheriff Blakely said he didn't attend the hearing in Montgomery, because he was unaware of the charges against him. --- The Alabama Ethics Commission met Wednesday in Montgomery to discuss a number of ethics violations. During the meeting, the commission went into an executive session. The commission reviewed a complaint regarding Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely during the executive session. In a public meeting following that session, the commission believed the evidence presented showed the sheriff may have violated an Alabama ethics law. The commission voted to send the case for review to the Alabama Attorney General's Office so that it could take appropriate action. The vote was 4-0. One member of the commission recused them self from the vote. No evidence was presented during the public meeting. It's unclear what Blakely is accused of doing that may have violated the law. He was not in Montgomery for the meeting, because he said he did not have any knowledge about the allegations. "I totally disagree, respectfully disagree with the ethics commission's finding, and I look forward to it being thoroughly vetted by the attorney general's office," Blakely said. WAAY 31 received a statement from Blakely's attorney. We've also reached out to Attorney General Steve Marshall's Office to learn more about the case and it said its policy is "not to make any comment or confirmation whether a particular matter may or may not be under investigation." "Mike Blakely and his family have lived in Limestone County all of their lives. He has had the privilege of serving Limestone County as Sheriff since 1983. Sheriff Blakely is a person of great character and his impeccable reputation is evidence of this. No charges have been filed against Sheriff Blakely and we hope that none will be. Sheriff Blakely and his family appreciate so much the overwhelming support of his friends and the community." Check back here for more updates. UPDATE: According to Trooper Chuck Daniel, Scotty Moss was arrested at 4:15 p.m. Wednesday under charges of reckless murder for Jason Reeds death and DUI assault for his 16-year-old passenger. --- A roadway in Limestone County is back open this morning after a deadly crash Tuesday night. The crash happened at the corner of Zehner Road and Quinn Road outside of Athens. Lloyd Jason Crawford Reed was killed in the wreck. According to Limestone County sheriff's deputies, the crash happened when Reed's vehicle and another vehicle, driven by Scotty Dale Moss, collided. Reed was pronounced dead at the scene and a passenger in his vehicle was airlifted to Huntsville Hospital. Moss and the passenger in his vehicle were not injured. There is no word yet on why the collision happened or if either driver was wearing their seatbelt. The UG White Mercantile location in Huntsville is already receiving interest from other businesses for their space after announcing they will permanently close. In August, the store suffered water damage from an upstairs fire that broke out in the Pints and Pixels kitchen. "With the circumstances and the timing, in the extent of what we have to do to reopen, we've made the decision that the best thing to do is not reopen," UG White Owner Derrick Young said. To Young, it's just not worth it. After the leaking water damaged the ceiling, floor and some merchandise, Young decided to close up the UG White store in Huntsville permanently. Young owns the entire building and says it's a business decision to move the store out and focus on their other location. "...we will continue to focus on our original store in Athens and be open there," Young said. The empty store is already receiving interest from multiple businesses looking to move in. Young says with businesses already calling, he will not fix too many things in the space and wants to lease it as is before making more changes. "We really want to leave a lot of the decisions up to the tenants that possibly come in, instead of spending money twice," Young said. "We'd rather find out what their needs and desires are before we go replacing things." Young would not say what businesses are interested in the space at this time. He says he is also not looking to reopen a second store in a different location right now. WAAY 31s I-Team investigated frustrations facing veterans here in the Tennessee Valley and across the country. Right now, nearly half-a-million of our military veterans have been waiting for years to have their disability claim appeals heard. We looked into the VA appeal delays for a Lawrence County man and what the Veterans Administration is doing to correct the problem for all vets. "All this is a lot of noise, Mike Love told WAAY 31. Love was talking about his Army training. And of course we trained with grenades. It was high decibel training for a potential high risk deployment to Vietnam. "The whole time when we went through Airborne school, we jumped out of a C-141 jet that has jet engines. Love trained with the Army 101st Airborne in Kentucky. With the war ending, he missed out on going to Vietnam. Instead, he served at Fort Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska. Love believes his Army training hurt his hearing. "The older I got, the worse it got, he told us. And still right now, sitting here right now, I've got ringing in this ear especially. And it's getting worse." All Love wants from the Department of Veterans Affairs is a hearing aid. Instead, hes gotten rejection letters, one after another. In this pack, I applied for disability on this form, Love showed us. And then it was denied and I appealed it." Thats when Loves frustrating quagmire of appealing the VAs decision began. Hes already been waiting more than three years. "In August of 2015, I filed this form for application for disability compensation. And then I was denied in December of 2015. And we appealed it in December of 2015. And I haven't had a hearing or anything," Love explained. "VA Disability Claims: it's where a veteran has a service-connected disease or injury, Calvin Underwood told WAAY 31. Underwood is a veteran himself. Retired from the Navy, he now helps fellow vets navigate the disability claims appeal process. For decades, that process has been mired in confusion. VA Secretary Robert Wilkie calls it a complicated appeals system that was buried in several layers of law. Many local veterans have looked for help from VFW Post 4190 in Decatur. Continually, we'll get two to three a week that calls or comes in, Underwood said. It seems like the harder we try to get them done, the more keeps coming. For veterans who died serving in the military, one way we pay tribute to them is by building monuments. Many of our living vets face the monumental problem of appealing their VA disability claims. Its battle after battle in a war that can last several years. Underwood is eager about promised changes. "They're going to change their whole appeal process, he told us. President Donald Trump signed the Veterans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act just over a year ago: August 23, 2017. Congress mandated a February 2019 deadline. One snag in modernizing has been extensive computer system upgrades To get ready, the VA has been training its employees and looking to hire hundreds more. Some critics are skeptical, but the VA vows it will meet the deadline. To fill the gap until then, the VA says its working to help veterans through RAMP, the Rapid Appeals Modernization Program. About 1,500 VA employees have been processing RAMP claims. Love filled out his paperwork for RAMP this past June. Finally, last week, he received a letter acknowledging his claim is in the RAMP system. Love has no idea, though, when the VA will make its decision. "Whether our case is scheduled or nothing, you know." Like Love, his fellow veterans continue to wait: six years on average. Other veterans never get an answer. According to the VAs data, since 2009, more than 35,000 veterans have died with their claims unresolved. The problem makes Calvin Underwood heartsick. "They've given their youth and their health for this country that we all might be free, he told us. And yet they're second-class citizens when it comes time they need some help back from the VA." Mike Love is hopeful the VA will speed up its appeals process. Thats what hundreds-of-thousands of veterans are hoping for, too: "That it gets someone's attention at the Veterans Administration -- that they will hear these claims of veterans quicker than what they're doing now." WAAY 31 reached out to the Veterans Administration. But, we havent heard back from the VA. LONG BEACH, Calif., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Molina Healthcare, Inc. (NYSE: MOH) today announced details for the release of its results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2018. Molina Healthcare will issue its earnings release for third quarter 2018 after the market closes on Wednesday, October 31, 2018, and will host a conference call and webcast to discuss the earnings release on Thursday, November 1, 2018, at 7:30 a.m. Eastern time. To access this interactive teleconference, dial (877) 883-0383 and enter the confirmation number, 5420566. A telephonic replay of the conference call will be available through Friday, November 2, 2018, by dialing (877) 344-7529 and entering the confirmation number, 10124788. A live broadcast of Molina Healthcares conference call will be available on the Companys website, molinahealthcare.com. A 30-day online replay will be available approximately an hour following the conclusion of the live broadcast. About Molina Healthcare Molina Healthcare, Inc., a FORTUNE 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs and through the state insurance marketplaces. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare served approximately 4.1 million members as of June 30, 2018. For more information about Molina Healthcare, please visit our website at molinahealthcare.com. WATERFORD is marking time with a new museum in the Viking Triangle. The Irish Museum of Time is the first of its kind in the... The team at Waterford Walls has hardly been able to contain its excitement this week as it brings another exciting artwork to the city.... The World Customs Organization (WCO) participated in the 12th International Law Enforcement Intellectual Property (IP) Crime Conference held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates on 25 and 26 September 2018. The event was co-hosted by INTERPOL and Dubai Police, in partnership with the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Interior, Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the International Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition (IACC) and the Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA). The Conference brought together representatives from Police, Customs, regulatory agencies, international organizations and the private sector. WCO Director, Compliance and Facilitation Ana Hinojosa attended the Conference and gave a presentation on the panel entitled Anti-Counterfeiting at the Policy Level - Advocating Enforcement and Penalization. During the panel discussion, the importance of collaboration between the various Police and regulatory authorities was highlighted by the WCO. The latter also underscored the recently released Customs-Police Handbook, the product of a collaborative effort between the WCO and INTERPOL. Some of the other topics covered IP enforcement operations and regional and national workshops in support of IP crime enforcement, as well as continued cooperation with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and others to increase awareness of the risks and negative impacts of counterfeiting. Aside from the challenges faced in the enforcement of IP crime, including high-costs and the environmental impact of destroying seized counterfeit goods, participants were also informed of the WCOs important upcoming work in the area of Free Trade Zones and E-Commerce. The forthcoming IP event entitled Respect for IP - Growing from the Tip of Africa International Conference, co-organized by the WCO, INTERPOL, the World Trade Organization (WTO), WIPO and the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) and to be held in Johannesburg, South Africa from 23 to 25 October 2018, was also announced in this forum. The Conference also afforded Director Hinojosa the opportunity to visit Dubai Customs Exhibition and learn more about its latest innovations, some of which were reported as having been prompted by suggestions made by field officers. For example, one innovation involves a female robot that can help Dubai Customs officers remove personal items from luggage owned by female travellers when female Customs Officers are not available. This helps Customs respect sensitivities while still being able to properly inspect travellers and their belongings. Other innovations include the use of drones for surveillance of maritime port operations, amphibious vehicles, the use of submarine camera capabilities and multifunctional examination tables with camera facilities, non-intrusive targeted inspection capabilities, and access to data systems and scales. These self-generated innovations are good examples of how Customs administrations continue to look to technology to help address more effectively some of the challenges of a highly dynamic environment. Boston, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With research showing that Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) face significant barriers to employment, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and several state, city and nonprofit organizations recently created a first-of-its-kind Pay for-Success project to improve employment outcomes for such Veterans. The Veterans Coordinated Approach to Recovery and Employment (Veterans CARE) project was launched Oct. 3 by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the City of Boston, New York City partners and the nonprofit organization Social Finance, which stemmed from VAs grant award to the organization, and will serve 480 Veterans over three years in New York City; Boston and Brockton, Massachusetts; and Central and Western Massachusetts. This project demonstrates that supporting Veterans depends on networks of collaborative partnerships, as well as great research and innovative ideas, said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. Research and innovation are fundamental to improving the health care and benefits for our nations Veterans. According to research, PTSD interferes with a persons ability to thrive in the workforce, and has been found to impact sustained employment and income negatively. In addition, a negative cycle exists between unemployment and PTSD -- persistent unemployment often is linked to negative health conditions, including depression, which can exacerbate PTSD symptoms. Further, VA research noted that up to 20 percent of Veterans from recent tours of duty have PTSD, and a 2015 analysis found that Veterans labor force participation had declined over the previous 35 years, in close correlation with a growth in service-connected disability. The Veterans CARE project will involve local VA medical centers to deliver Individual Placement and Support (IPS), an evidence-based approach to supported employment, to program participants. The Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center (TVAMC) will oversee and monitor the project. The Veterans CARE project will take our work from the research arena into real-world settings where we plan to achieve the highest level of impact of IPS at full scale, said Veterans CARE Study Chair Dr. Lori Davis. Sustained meaningful work is a key part of the recovery plan for Veterans living with PTSD. Pay for Success is a public finance model that harnesses the power of the capital markets to address critical social and environmental challenges and improve the lives of those in need. In this Pay for Success project, BNP Paribas, Northern Trust, The Dakota Foundation, Deutsche Bank and Robin Hood Foundation provided $5.1 million in impact capital to fund the project. "We are excited to launch the first Pay for Success project globally to support Veterans, who have served our nation so honorably, said Tracy Palandjian, CEO and co-founder of Social Finance. The Veterans CARE project is about bringing the public, private and social sectors together to help Veterans with PTSD secure meaningful employment and lead healthier, happier lives. VAs Center for Innovation and the Corporation for National and Community Services Social Innovation Fund are providing $3 million, which is matched by local government partners, to repay project investors if the project achieves measurable results for Veterans. Massachusetts is committed to improving employment opportunities for our veterans, and we look forward to working with our partners on the Veterans CARE project to advance this shared objective, said Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker. This project will help secure meaningful job opportunities and a more stable future for veterans with PTSD and help us repay the debt the country and Commonwealth owe veterans. "The City of Boston is committed to doing everything it can to support our veteran community," said Mayor Walsh. "The City is proud to participate in the Vets CARE program. The program, in conjunction with an array of other services provided through the City, will give our veterans an opportunity not just to survive but thrive to be their very best." The IPS treatment helps you get the work you want and also the type of work you can handle. Thats so important for guys like me, said Bob Simonovich, a Veteran who received Individual Placement and Support services. Ryan, my IPS specialist, is like my agent. He works for you and with you. He cares for you. You have someone on your side. This is one of the best things Ive ever done. It has been a game changer for sure. BNP Paribas is proud to provide support to Veterans through a cutting-edge financing solution with social impact, says Cambyse Parsi, CSR Officer at BNP Paribas. Our commitment has been strengthened by the support of our Military Employee Resource Group, whose goal is to promote soldier and veteran initiatives in our local communities. As an active investor in projects that directly benefit our communities, Northern Trust is pleased that our fifth Pay-for-Success impact investment provides employment assistance to veterans using a finance tool that aligns repayment with their success, said Connie Lindsey, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility and Global Diversity & Inclusion at Northern Trust.The Dakota Foundation is a proud partner in the Veterans CARE project, which effectively demonstrates how to improve mental health support and employment opportunties for our Veterans through evidence-based services, said Bart Holaday, Founder and Chairman of the Dakota Foundation. Deutsche Bank is proud to partner with the Veterans Administration and other concerned entities to address this critical issue, said John Eydenberg, Chairman, Deutsche Bank Americas. As a founding member of Veterans On Wall Street, Deutsche Bank is committed to equipping our veterans to succeed in the workforce after their years of service. For more information about the Veterans CARE project, go to http://socialfinance.org/focus-areas/workforce/veterans-care-project/. ### If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit Pumpkin Village Open at Discovery Park Oct. 03, 2018 By Oct. 03, 2018 The 2018 version of McDonalds Pumpkin Village is now open at Discovery Park of America in Union City. This year McDonalds Pumpkin Village features hundreds of pumpkins, gourds and hay structures displayed throughout the Settlement area of the park. McDonalds Pumpkin Village is designed and created by the Discovery Park of America grounds crew, and a new addition this year is a giant hay bale maze designed as a childrens play area. Pumpkin Village kicks off a month that is full of activities and fun things to do at Discovery Park. With many area schools having Fall Break, the park is offering a $2 discount for student admission on Tuesday - Friday in October. A featured exhibit at the park is "Thomas and Friends Ride the Rails," featuring a giant Thomas and friends railway that inspires hours of free play for children ages 2 through 7. Another special exhibit, "TOYS: 100 Years of Fun," is very nostalgic and interesting for kids of all ages. Admission for "TOYS" is included in the $5.00 featured exhibit price. On October 13th, theres a Family Education Series class called, Vampires, and on October 14th theres Pumpkin Painting in the Settlement from 1:00 until 4:00 pm. This activity comes complete with pumpkins and all supplies and it is free with park admission. The children can take their pumpkin home with them. Closer to Halloween, children ages 12 and under who come to compete in the Halloween Costume Contest on October 29 will enjoy free admission to the park. CEO Jim Rippy said that he hopes people from near and far will enjoy the beautiful fall weather and fun events and activities at Discovery Park this October. We especially want to invite our senior groups to come back out now that we have added trollies to help people get around the park, he added. For a complete list of events, classes and activities at the park, you can visit the parks website at www.discoveryparkofamerica.com and click on the calendar. Discovery Park of America is open 10:00 am until 5:00 pm Tuesday through Sunday. Man who went to space with Shatner dies in plane crash Advertisement By West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 02, 2018 | MURRAY By West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 02, 2018 | 07:17 PM | MURRAY A Michigan fugitive that had been on the run for nearly 17 years was arrested on Monday in Murray. The Murray Police Department reported that they were advised by U.S. Marshals that the fugitive, 40-year-old Hiram Abiff Hawkins, was possibly living in Murray. Hawkins also went by the name Robert Martin. In February of 2002, Hawkins was at a court proceeding in Michigan where he was on trial for two counts of criminal sexual conduct. While the verdict was being read, he fled from the courtroom. He remained at large and on the run, using the false identity of Robert Martin. Hawkins was taken into custody on Monday without incident by U.S. Marshals and Murray Police. By West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 03, 2018 | 11:30 AM | GRAVES COUNTY Davant Ramage on Wednesday announced he is withdrawing from his write-in campaign for Graves County Sheriff.Ramage said the only reason he filed to run was because "an inexperienced individual" had filed to run as a write-in the day before. Ramage also said he thought current Sheriff Dewayne Redmon would withdraw from the election, or that his current criminal case might come to a close before he was able to take office in January, 2019.According to Ramage, Redmon plans to seek re-election. Ramage said it was never his intention to run against Redmon and that's why he's decided to withdraw. His withdrawal leaves Redmon and write-in candidates Robin Holmes, Michael Corey Apperson and Bill Howard Harris as the only candidates for sheriff. The deadline for write-ins to file is Oct. 26 at 4:00 pm.As Chief Deputy, Ramage said he will continue to oversee the day-to-day operations of the sheriff's office to include law enforcement operations, as ordered by the special judge that has jurisdiction over the current felony case pending against Redmon.Ramage said he intends to run for sheriff at some point in the future, but at this time, he feels he needs to be loyal to the man who hired him. Redmon recently entered a not guilty plea to charges of official misconduct and first degree possession of a controlled substance. Redmon was indicted on those charges in August, and is accused of stealing hydrocodone from the sheriff department's drug drop box. A judge has ruled that Redmon can continue to perform his administrative duties as sheriff, but can't perform any law enforcement duties until his case has ended. By West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 03, 2018 | 12:22 PM | MARSHALL COUNTY Two people were arrested and another was cited on drug charges Tuesday in Marshall County. Marshall County Sheriff's deputies responded to a Draffenville hotel in reference to possible drug activity. The investigation resulted in the arrest of one of the hotel's guests, Jennifer L. Carter of Benton. Carter was charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. She was lodged in the Marshall County Detention Center. In a separate incident on Crooked Oak Loop, a joint investigation by the sheriff's office and Kentucky Probation and Parole led to the arrest of Zachary T. Bunyan of Benton. Bunyan was charged with possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bunyan was lodged in the Marshall County Detention Center. Another man, Dillon Combs of Kuttawa, was cited to court for possession of marijuana. By The Associated Press Oct. 03, 2018 | 08:52 AM | FRANKFORT High school students in Kentucky could soon have to pass exit exams in math and reading before earning a high school diploma. The Kentucky Board of Education gave preliminary approval to new minimum high school graduation requirements on Wednesday. The proposal would require 10th grade students to meet minimum competency standards in tests for math and reading before graduating. Students could take the test multiple times. If they still can't pass, they can appeal to their local school superintendent. The board will vote one more time on the regulations in December following a public comment period. Education Commissioner Wayne Lewis says the new requirements will help prepare the state's students for college and careers. But some education groups are concerned about the tests, saying they could lead to higher drop-out rates. Williamson, WV (25661) Today Mostly clear this evening then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 34F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Mostly clear this evening then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 34F. Winds light and variable. English French MONTREAL, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Theratechnologies Inc. (Theratechnologies) (TSX: TH) is pleased to announce that pharmacokinetic data from the pivotal phase III clinical trial for Trogarzo (ibalizumab-uiyk) injection will be presented tomorrow at IDWeek in San Francisco. Data to be presented conclude that the FDA-approved dosing regimen of 2,000 mg loading dose followed by an 800 mg maintenance dose every two weeks is enough to support high levels of CD4 receptor occupancy and drug concentration above therapeutic level. The data is derived from the pivotal TMB-301 study, an open-label 24-week, phase III clinical trial conducted in 40 heavily-treatment experienced patients with multidrug resistant HIV-1. Results from the TMB-301 clinical trial were published in the August 16, 2018 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine. IDWeek is one of the largest conferences in the field of infectious diseases and is attended by some of the worlds key opinion leaders in the field of HIV. Being able to present additional evidence about the efficacy of Trogarzo at such an important venue is key towards developing the full potential of this crucial tool in the fight against HIV, said Luc Tanguay, President and CEO, Theratechnologies Inc. About TrogarzoTM (ibalizumab-uiyk) injection Trogarzo is a CD4-directed post-attachment HIV-1 inhibitor. Trogarzo, in combination with other antiretroviral(s), is indicated for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection in heavily treatment-experienced adults with multidrug resistant HIV-1 infection failing their current antiretroviral regimen. Before you receive Trogarzo, tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant as it is not known if Trogarzo may harm your unborn baby or if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed as it is not known if Trogarzo passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system might get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your health care provider right away if you start having new symptoms after starting your HIV-1 medicine. The most common side effects of Trogarzo include: diarrhea, dizziness, nausea and rash. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of Trogarzo. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Full prescribing information available at www.trogarzo.com. About Theratechnologies Theratechnologies (TSX: TH) is a specialty pharmaceutical company addressing unmet medical needs by bringing to market specialized therapies for people with orphan medical conditions, including those living with HIV. Further information about Theratechnologies is available on the Company's website at www.theratech.com and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com . Forward-Looking Information This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information, or, collectively, forward-looking statements, within the meaning of applicable securities laws, that are based on our managements belief and assumptions and on information currently available to our management. You can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as may, will, should, could, would, outlook, believe, plan, envisage, anticipate, expect and estimate or the negatives of these terms, or variations of them. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, but are not limited to, the efficacy of Trogarzo and its use in assisting patients in need thereof. Forward-looking statements are based upon a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Theratechnologies control that could cause actual results to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking information. These assumptions include but are not limited to, the following: the efficacy observed during the pivotal phase III clinical trial for Trogarzo will be the same for all patients and physicians will acknowledge and prescribe Trogarzo to patients in need thereof. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk that the efficacy of TrogarzoTM differs from one patient to the other and that physicians are reluctant to prescribe Trogarzo. We refer potential investors to the Risk Factors section of our Annual Information Form dated February 6, 2018 available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com for additional risks and uncertainties about Theratechnologies, its business and products. The reader is cautioned to consider these and other risks and uncertainties carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect current expectations regarding future events and speak only as of the date of this press release and represent our expectations as of that date. We undertake no obligation to update or revise the information contained in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law. Media inquiries: Denis Boucher Vice President, Communications and Corporate Affairs Tel.: (514) 336-7800, ext. 236 By: Paige Cline Sometimes I am asked to reprint a column from the past. Here[Read More] Wilmington, North Carolina, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The underserved in Wilmington are now the focus of service as the community begins recovery efforts after Hurricane Florence. Support the Port, a three year old non-profit, has established a beachhead in Ebenezer Baptist Church on the northeast side of downtown Wilmington. The organization has centralized donations and volunteers, supplies and services such as healthcare, employment, home repair, legal advice and child care. The first week of October, Support the Port will be open from Noon to 6:00 PM with local Chef Keith Rhodes, a competitor on season 9 of Bravo TVs Top Chef, bringing his sought-after Catch food truck for lunch on Monday (10/1), Tuesday (10/2) and Friday (10/5). The rest of October, hours are 1:00 to 6:00 PM, Tuesday through Thursday. Ebenezer Baptist Church is located at Princess Place Drive and 30th Street in Wilmington. Weve found a home in the heart of a zone ill-equipped to rebuild on their own, said Cedric Harrison, founder of the 501c3 non-profit thats dedicated to helping Wilmington residents develop a new sense of community. The spirit were seeing is amazing; a real community effort to bring everyone back on their feet whether they can afford it or not. It feels like we have everyone helping from my grandmother to lawyers and therapists, FEMA and local businesses, area churches and local non-profits. Theyre donating everything from money and goods to time and advice as we prepare Wilmingtonians for a brave new future. Support the Port is delivering direct services from the Ebenezer Baptist location and to a series of distribution hubs throughout New Hanover, Brunswick, Columbus and Pender counties. They need help with the following: Donations : Goods : medical supplies, cleaning supplies, fresh and canned foods, toys/books/baby supplies, water jugs, grill items, and school supplies. Money: will go to pay rent at the church, acquiring a dumpster, purchase food and gasoline, and to help re-start local businesses in need. Donations can be made at supporttheport.com. Volunteers: 75 100 people have volunteered daily, delivering food and supplies across Cape Fear. Volunteers are now needed to serve in expanded ways, with food and service coordination. : Service Partnerships: organizations are working with Support the Port; more are welcome Support the Port wants to assure that all populations have equal access to whatever funds are dispersed for recovery, said Robert Rosenberg, a board member. We are addressing mobility issues, the need for jobs, counsel, child care and home rebuilding, specifically in high poverty areas. Those looking to get involved can visually see the direct impact your help is making when sharing with Support the Port. About Support the Port Support the Port Foundation, Inc. is a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to enhance, cultivate and provide a renewed sense of community ownership and excellence for residents of Wilmington, North Carolina. Through the arts, philanthropy and scholarship, Support the Port Foundation, Inc. will increase self-ability, and foster a nonviolent environment where excellence in these three realms are celebrated and expanded. For further information visit www.supporttheport.com # # # Attachments English French PRESS RELEASE 3 October 2018 EDF Announces the Completion of its Hybrid Refinancing Transaction EDF (the "Company") is pleased to announce the successful completion of its hybrid refinancing transaction consisting of: The pricing of new 1,250,000,000 4.000% reset perpetual 6 year non-call hybrid notes (the "New Notes"), and An offer to purchase for cash (the "Tender Offer") four outstanding series of hybrid notes as set out below. On 25 September 2018, the Company successfully priced new 1,250,000,000 reset perpetual 6 year non-call hybrid notes with a 4.000% coupon and a first redemption at the option of the Company between July 4, 2024 (included) and October 4, 2024 (included). Following the end of the Tender Offer period, EDF will purchase for cash Notes validly tendered on the first two acceptance priority levels pursuant to the Tender Offer for an amount of 1,250,000,000. The aggregate size of the Company's stock of hybrid notes remains unchanged as a result of the hybrid refinancing transaction and the Company remains committed to hybrid capital securities as a permanent part of its capital structure to fund assets under construction. Summary table of the Tender Offer results below: Targeted Hybrid Notes ISIN Acceptance Priority Levels Tendered Amounts Tendered Amounts in % of outstanding Acceptance Amounts Pro-Rating Factors Tender Prices 2020 Notes FR0011401736 1 911,800,000 73% 911,800,000 100.00% 105,255% 2022 Notes FR0011697010 2 635,100,000 64% 338,200,000 59.50% 108,185% 2026 Notes FR0011401728 3 N/A N/A 0 N/A N/A 2025 Notes FR0011401751 4 N/A N/A 0 N/A N/A The Autorite des marches financiers granted visa number 18-466 on October 2, 2018 on the prospectus relating to the New Notes. The New Notes will be issued on October 4, 2018. The settlement of the Tender Offer is scheduled on October 5, 2018. This announcement does not constitute an invitation to participate in the tender offer in or from any jurisdiction in or from which, or to or from any person to or from whom, it is unlawful to make such invitation under applicable securities laws. The distribution of this announcement in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons into whose possession this announcement comes are required to inform themselves about, and to observe, any such restrictions. Tenders of Targeted Hybrid Notes for purchase pursuant to the tender offer will not be accepted from qualifying holders in any circumstances in which such offer or solicitation is unlawful. EDF does not make any recommendation as to whether or not qualifying holders should participate in the tender offer. The tender offer is not being made and will not be made directly or indirectly in or into, or by use of the mails of, or by any means or instrumentality of interstate or foreign commerce of, or of any facilities of a national securities exchange of, the United States to owners of the Targeted Hybrid Notes who are located in the United States as defined in Regulation S of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 (as amended, the "Securities Act") or to U.S. Persons as defined in Regulation S of the Securities Act (each a "U.S. Person"). The Targeted Hybrid Notes may not be tendered in the tender offer by any such use, means, instrumentality or facility from or within the United States, by persons located or resident in the United States or by U.S. Persons. Accordingly, copies of this document and any other documents or materials relating to the tender offer are not being, and must not be, directly or indirectly, mailed or otherwise transmitted, distributed or forwarded (including, without limitation, by custodians, nominees or trustees) in or into the United States or to any such U.S. Person. Any purported offer to sell in response to the tender offer resulting directly or indirectly from a violation of these restrictions will be invalid, and offers to sell made by a person located in the United States or any agent, fiduciary or other intermediary acting on a non-discretionary basis for a principal giving instructions from within the United States or any U.S. Person will be invalid and will not be accepted. Each holder of any Targeted Hybrid Note participating in the tender offer will represent that it is not located in the United States. This press release does not constitute an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the Targeted Hybrid Notes or any other securities, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale, in the United States or any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of that jurisdiction. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under, or an exemption from the registration requirements of, the Securities Act. The New Notes have not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act or the securities laws of any state or other jurisdiction of the United States, and may not be offered, sold or delivered, directly or indirectly, in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, any U.S. Person. This press release is certified. Its authenticity can be checked on medias.edf.com A key player in energy transition, the EDF Group is an integrated electricity company, active in all areas of the business: generation, transmission, distribution, energy supply and trading, energy services. A global leader in low-carbon energies, the Group has developed a diversified generation mix based on nuclear power, hydropower, new renewable energies and thermal energy. The Group is involved in supplying energy and services to approximately 35.1 million customers, of which 26.5 million in France. The Group generated consolidated sales of 70 billion in 2017. EDF is listed on the Paris Stock Exchange. Only print this message if absolutely necessary. EDF SA French societe anonyme With a share capital of 1,505,133,838 Registered lead office : 22-30, avenue de Wagram 75382 Paris cedex 08 552 081 317 R.C.S. Paris www.edf.fr CONTACTS Press: +33 (0) 1 40 42 46 37 Analysts and Investors: +33 (0) 1 40 42 40 38 Detroit, Michigan, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- H. Ross Ford III, President & CEO of TCN Worldwide Real Estate Services, is pleased to announce Signature Associates as the newest member selected to join the international real estate services organization. Signature Associates, with offices in Southfield, Detroit, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Holland, Kalamazoo, Michigan and Toledo, Ohio, is the regions largest volume commercial real estate firm. Founded in 1989, Steve Gordon and 11 other principals left a successful commercial real estate firm to form Signature Associates. This experienced, talented and driven team has grown Signature Associates over the past 29 years into a full-service commercial real estate firm with over 150 employees, eight regional offices and is a repeat winner of the Cool Places to Work, Best & Brightest Companies to Work For and Top Workplaces awards. Our Company is extremely pleased to be joining TCN Worldwide, one of the industrys largest commercial real estate organizations, stated Mark Woods, COO of Signature Associates. We are thrilled to join the ranks of the many prestigious firms already a part of TCN Worldwide and are confident that this new partnership will bring tremendous opportunities to our company. We look forward to meeting representatives from each TCN office at next months TCN Fall Conference and working with TCN affiliates in the near future. It is a great pleasure to welcome Signature Associates as the newest member of TCN Worldwide, stated Ross Ford. This firm has tremendous depth and breadth of expertise as well as relationships throughout Michigan and Northwest Ohio. He added, The addition of Signature Associates is another example of TCN Worldwides commitment to providing its clients with the preeminent independent real estate services firm in each market. We are proud to add them to our growing member roster. About Signature Associates Signature Associates (www.signatureassociates.com), with offices in Southfield, Detroit, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Holland, Kalamazoo, Michigan and Toledo, Ohio, is the regions leading commercial real estate firm. Signature provides a diverse selection of services, including landlord/owner representation, tenant/buyer representation, investment sales, property/asset management, advisory services, project consulting and market research. In 2017, Signature completed more than 1,106 transactions totaling 34.7 million square feet and 1,536 acres with a value of $1.2 billion. Additionally, our Advisory and Management Services team performed comprehensive construction management services for projects totaling over $60 million and managed more than 8 million square feet of commercial space for our third-party clients, making us the largest locally owned third-party property management firm in the market. About TCN Worldwide TCN Worldwide, a consortium of leading independent commercial real estate firms, provides complete integrated real estate solutions locally and internationally. With commercial real estate professionals serving more than 200 primary and secondary markets worldwide, TCN Worldwide is one of the most comprehensive service providers in the industry. An extensive range of real estate services coupled with a personal commitment to exceed client expectations is what allows TCN Worldwide to be a leader in the commercial real estate industry. TCN Worldwide ranks as one of the largest service providers in the industry, consisting of more than 5,000 commercial real estate professionals in 160+ offices across 24 countries, and collectively representing more than $58.6 billion in annual transaction volume. For more information on TCN Worldwide, contact H. Ross Ford at 972-769-8701 or visit www.TCNWorldwide.com. Attachment The passing of Professor Sergio Colafrancesco It is with great sadness that the University announces the passing of Professor Sergio Colafrancesco, a scientist and member of the School of Physics. Colafrancesco passed away on Sunday, 30 September 2018, following a battle with cancer. The University offers its deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Colafrancesco. He was the DST-NRF Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Research Chair in Radio Astronomy in the School of Physics. His appointment heralded the beginning of distinguished research activity in Radio Astronomy and Astrophysics at Wits and the eventual establishment of a research group currently comprising five academics in the School. The Chair is of local and international significance and provides closer alignment with the SKA project. It was established to contribute to the understanding of the structure, origin and evolution of the Universe and of its sub-structures, from the smallest galaxies to the largest galaxy clusters. Colafrancesco was involved in a number of ground-breaking projects that showcased the countrys leadership and competitiveness in science. He was a highly cited, internationally recognised expert in cosmology and astrophysics. The South African Institute of Physics has conveyed its condolences, adding that Colafrancesco made tremendous contributions to the development of radio and gamma-ray astronomy in South Africa and further afield on the African continent. His passing at a time when MeerKAT comes online is heart-breaking, wrote Professor Patrick Woudt, President of the Institute and Head of Astronomy at UCT. Born in Italy, Colafrancesco joined Wits in August 2011 from the University of Rome where he was a professor of astrophysics. Prior to that, he was a senior scientist with the Italian Institute for Astrophysics. He obtained his PhD in Astronomy at the University of Padua, Italy. A new poll released by AARP New York shows that for voters age 50 and older, Anthony Brindisi and Antonio Delgado hold leads over incumbents Claudia Tenney and John Faso for the 22nd and 19th Congressional District races. According to the poll, which surveyed 610 registered voters in the 22nd Congressional District, Democratic candidate Anthony Brindisi has a lead of 48 percent among voters age 50 and older, compared to Republican Congresswoman Claudia Tenneys 35 percent. Among independent voters in that age range, 51 percent support Brindisi, while 29 percent support Tenney. The report states that 75 percent of voters in the 22nd Congressional District worry often about how divided America and Americans have become, 93 percent think Medicare is very important for peoples health in retirement, and 88 percent believe Social Security is very important for financial security in retirement. In the 19th Congressional District, 43 percent of voters age 50 and older support Democratic candidate Antonio Delgado, while 36 percent support Republican Congressman John Faso. The poll did not compare their favorability with Green Party candidate Steven Greenfield and independent candidate Diane Neal, who will also be on the ballot in November. The poll states that among independent voters in that age range, nearly 40 percent support Delgado, while 30 percent support Faso. The poll also shows the voters age 50 and over are united across party lines in their concern about healthcare costs and the rise in prescription drug prices, as well as Social Security and Medicare. With five weeks to go before Election Day, candidates in New York would be wise to listen to the states most powerful voting group: 50-plus voters, said AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel in a news release. History shows older voters turn out in force, and AARP is seeking to ensure issues of particular importance to older voters are front and center issue like Medicare, Social Security, prescription drug costs, and family caregiving. To view the full poll report, click here. A Connecticut man who was wanted in that state on a parole warrant is facing felony drug charges in Utica, according to New York State Police. Police say 26-year-old Johnathan Ayala, who is originally from Hartford, Connecticut, was found on Miller Street in Utica where a search warrant was executed. Police say during the search, investigators seized approximately 90 envelopes containing heroin, about ounce of crack cocaine, drug paraphernalia and more than $2,000 in cash. Ayala is charged with two counts of felony third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and one count of felony fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. He was sent to the Utica Police Departments lockup while he awaited arraignment in Utica City Court. A tragic end to the case of a missing St. Johnsville woman: a private citizen found the body of 21-year-old Michaela MacVilla on his property in Oppenheim in Fulton county Tuesday afternoon, in the area of Kringsbush Road. New York State Police held a news conference Wednesday afternoon, releasing details regarding the discovery of MacVilla's body. Police didn't comment on the manner of death or cause of death. They're awaiting results of an autopsy, performed by Dr. Michael Sikirica, at Albany Medical Center. MacVilla was last seen leaving the Stewart's Shop in the village of St. Johnsville in the early morning hours of September 25, after her 4 p.m. to midnight shift. Police followed up on dozens of leads and conducted numerous interviews in connection with her disappearance. State police are asking that if anyone has information they believe might be relative to the case, no matter how insignificant they think it might be, call them at 518-630-1700. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Michaela MacVilla's family. To make a donation, click here. Sixty years of tea manufacturing in Little Falls is about to end for Redco Foods. The company confirms that Harris Tea Company has purchased their tea-making assets, and will consolidate production of Red Rose and Salada Tea brands in its Moorestown, New Jersey and Marietta, Georgia, facilities. Production in Little Falls will end by December 14th. Redco officials say plant employees were offered relocation at both the Georgia and New Jersey plants. They say all administrative, finance, customer service and online sales support will remain in Little Falls, where sale and distribution of the Junket Desserts Brand and Teekanne Tea Brand will continue. Company officials did not say how many employees were offered relocation, and could stand to lose their jobs if unable to relocate. According to the Herkimer County Historical Society, Salada Shirriff Horsey began making tea in Herkimer County in 1958. They say the name changed to Salada in 1962. The following is the full release, from Redco Foods. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Redco Foods announces relocation of Red Rose and Salada Tea Brands manufacturing equipment to Harris Tea Company facilities in Moorestown, New Jersey and Marietta, Georgia. Little Falls, NY (October 2, 2018) - Redco Foods informed its employees yesterday that production of Red Rose and Salada Tea Brands will end by December 14, 2018. In accordance with the agreement announced on September 4, 2018, Harris Tea Company who has purchased the tea manufacturing assets from Redco Foods and completed a license agreement of these two brands, made the decision to consolidate the tea production between its two manufacturing facilities located in Moorestown, New Jersey and Marietta, Georgia. Redco Foods plant employees were offered positions to relocate at either facility. All administrative, finance, customer service functions including on-line sales support will remain in Little Falls. Redco Foods will continue the sale and distribution of the Junket Desserts Brand and Teekanne Tea Brand from its facility in Little Falls. UTICA Utica Bread wholesale is shutting down after this week, meaning youll no longer see the companys products for sale in other shops. Management for Utica Bread says the company is instead focusing on retail at its Baggs Square shop on Genesee Street. Company representatives would not address questions about Utica Bread being for sale or being sold. We are still waiting to hear back from the owner of the business as well as the potential buyer. Toronto, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Friends of Rouge Watershed (FRW) and World Wildlife Fund Canada are teaming up to protect endangered Carolinian forest near Rouge Park with conservation events on Saturday, Oct. 6 and Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018. Community volunteers will plant hundreds of native trees and wildflowers that will contribute to the health of the Rouge Watershed and provide habitat for at-risk wildlife such as the monarch butterfly, bobolink, eastern meadowlark, milk snake and Blandings turtle. The events will add to the 720,000 trees and flowers planted by FRW and its partners since 1991. Media are invited to attend both public events. About the events Oct. 6: Warbler Circle greenspace (Scarborough, Ont.) What: Habitat restoration and tree planting with dozens of community volunteers. Habitat restoration and tree planting with dozens of community volunteers. Where: Please meet and park at the end of Warbler Circle, just off Staines Road. Parking will be marked with orange cones (map). Please meet and park at the end of Warbler Circle, just off Staines Road. Parking will be marked with orange cones (map). When: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Community members can still register online to join this event. Oct. 20, 2018: Rouge National Park bus tour What: Participants who register for a spot on this tour of Rouge National Park will visit sites that are part of the nationally endangered Carolinian forest and species as well as recently restored wildlife habitat. Participants who register for a spot on this tour of Rouge National Park will visit sites that are part of the nationally endangered Carolinian forest and species as well as recently restored wildlife habitat. Where: Registered participants meet at the Rouge Hill GO Station parking area. The tour will include the Rouge Marsh, Oak Ridges Moraine in the eastern GTA and end at the headwaters of Rouge River and Little Rouge Creek, which flow to Lake Ontario and supply our drinking water. Registered participants meet at the Rouge Hill GO Station parking area. The tour will include the Rouge Marsh, Oak Ridges Moraine in the eastern GTA and end at the headwaters of Rouge River and Little Rouge Creek, which flow to Lake Ontario and supply our drinking water. To RSVP (space limited), contact Danielle Marcoux-Hunter About Rouge National Park and Rouge Watershed Rouge National Park encompasses 79 sq. km of protected public land from the shores of Lake Ontario through Scarborough, Markham and Pickering and all the way to the regional forests and trails of the Oak Ridges Moraine in Uxbridge. Despite its urban location, the park and surrounding areas are home to more than two dozen species at risk. Jim Robb, general manager, Friends of Rouge Watershed, says: With more than 1,700 species of flora and fauna, Rouge National Park is one of Canadas most biologically diverse parks and it is the largest remaining tract of public land within Canadas Carolinian zone a region that is home to one-third of Canadas species at risk. Less than 1 per cent of Canadas Carolinian forests have been protected in national and provincial parks. Devika Shah, senior manager of strategic initiatives, WWF-Canada, says: We should all be working to restore lost and fragmented habitat, which are key drivers of wildlife loss in Canada, where 50 per cent of monitored species are in decline. Habitat restoration efforts like this, especially in vulnerable ecosystems like the Carolinian zone, are key to helping wildlife thrive. WWF-Canada is partnering with groups like Friends of Rouge Watershed to improve habitat and give wildlife a fighting chance. About Friends of Rouge Watershed FRW is a charitable organization that co-ordinates hands-on environmental projects with visible, lasting ecosystem, watershed and community benefits. We implant environmental knowledge, skills and values within the minds and hearts of youth and community leaders. Since 1991, FRW and our volunteers and partners have helped to: Create Rouge Park, Watershed and Greenbelt plans, which protect and improve watershed, ecosystem and community health. Educate and empower more than 62,000 youth and community volunteers to plant and maintain more than 720,000 native trees, shrubs and flowers. Restore 3.5 sq. km of native forest, wetland and meadow habitat to support natural beauty and biodiversity, clean water and air and climatic stability. In 2016, FRW received the J.R. Dymond award from Ontario Nature for its tireless and inspirational role in the creation of Rouge National Park and exceptional work on the ground with stewardship and restoration projects. About World Wildlife Fund Canada: WWF-Canada creates solutions to the environmental challenges that matter most for Canadians. We work in places that are unique and ecologically important, so that nature, wildlife and people thrive together. Because we are all wildlife. For more information, visit wwf.ca. Harrison College closed its doors almost three weeks ago but students are still finding challenges on what do next. Students from the veterinary program seem to be facing even more challenges. Imagine almost reaching the finish line to graduation just to find out your school has closed its doors for good. Thats exactly what happened to thousands of Harrison College students. Last month Harrison College issued a letter to staff and students announcing its permanent closure. While it's still unclear why the school has suddenly shut down, staff and students are left having to figure out how to move forward. Program Director and Instructor for the Veterinary Technology school at Harrison's Northwest campus Heather Maddox found out that she no longer had a job just a day after she administered exams. "It was a shock, I'm still somewhat in shock. I'm still waiting for them to call and go, it was just a joke come back to work," said Maddox. Although she's out of a job, she's been working to help her students find placement at another college. "Right now they have no options, we're still trying to work on options, and this is, we're three weeks out from closure and the faculty is still trying to help the students," said Maddox. Harrison Vet Tech students have found their options to be particularly limited. Universities in the state either don't offer the program or are not accepting the student's credits. Their only choice may be to start completely over, and students aren't pleased. "For me, that would mean that I would have to pick up and go to another state," said Vet Tech student Savanna Ruano. Another student, Honore Milton expressed her frustration, "If I have to start over from scratch, it's going to be very, very rough for me," said Milton. Some students even expressed their concerns with financing a brand new education. "After all this time and money that we've invested to start over again... for us to start over again, it's just too much," said Vet Tech student Maribel Tirado. "Starting all over again... how are we supposed to pay for that," said her classmate Alexandra Voteau. Harrison College administrators recently released the student's transcripts. The status of many of students enrollment says withdrawal." Although the school closed, according to Federal Student Aid, loans are required to be paid back even if students have withdrawn from campus. "I feel like they worded it in that way to their benefit so that they don't have to refund people's money, said Savanna Ruano. Weve talked to some students who have hired lawyers. They want to make sure the way the school closed was legal. We reached out to Harrison College and the Indiana Veterinary Medical Examiner and have received no response on the status of this issue. We will be sure to keep updated on any information regarding the school. China News on Women Sorry, the page you requested was not found. If you're having trouble locating a destination on Womenofchina.cn, try visiting the Womenofchina Home page Annual flu vaccination campaign launches across Wales This article is old - Published: Wednesday, Oct 3rd, 2018 The annual NHS Wales campaign encouraging everyone eligible for flu vaccination to get protected, has been launched today. This year the free vaccine is being made more widely available to now include all primary school children and pre-schoolers aged two and three. For the first time the vaccine is also being offered to staff with regular client contact working in residential care and nursing homes. Annual flu vaccination is the best protection against catching or spreading flu, a potentially life-threatening infection. Each year over two thirds of those aged 65 and over and almost half of people in at-risk groups in Wales get their flu jab. Last year more than 820,000 flu vaccines were given by NHS Wales. Developments for this year include: All primary school children are now eligible for a free nasal spray flu vaccine, as well as children aged two and three years (age on 31 August 2018) Staff in adult care homes who have regular contact with residents can have a free NHS flu vaccine at many community pharmacies. This will help protect care home residents who are more vulnerable to complications from flu and reduce the spread of flu To improve effectiveness, different flu vaccines recommended for different age groups have been introduced this year and delivery of certain flu vaccines to GP practices and community pharmacies will be staggered between September and November Some people may be asked to wait until the most effective vaccine for them is available. However, the aim is that everyone will be offered vaccination before mid-December when flu typically starts to circulate Pregnant women (at any stage in their pregnancy), people with long-term health conditions and everyone aged 65 and over are also eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination, along with unpaid carers and first aid volunteers. It is recommended that all health and social care staff with direct patient or client contact have the vaccine to protect themselves and those they care for. They can ask their occupational health department or employer about where and when to get their vaccine. Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Services, Vaughan Gething AM, will be launching the campaign today at Boots, Cwmbran, while he receives his vaccination. Highlighting the importance of the flu vaccination, Mr Gething said: Flu can be a life-threatening illness for people who are at risk due to their age, an underlying health problem, or because they are pregnant. This was sadly emphasised all too clearly during the influenza outbreak last winter. Flu spreads very easily, especially among children. By extending the programme to include all primary school age children this year we hope to protect them from catching flu, and also prevent them spreading it to others in their family and in the community who may be vulnerable. We are also offering the flu vaccine to residential care and nursing home staff for the first time this year. Despite having high flu vaccination rates in residents, flu can spread easily within care homes and can be passed from staff to residents when the staff member has mild or even no symptoms. This is partly because as people age they do not produce as good an immune response to vaccination. This makes vaccination of staff caring for frail, older people even more important. He added: Therefore, for winter 2018-19, I took the decision to offer flu vaccination to staff working in adult residential care and nursing homes, at no cost to themselves or their employers through community pharmacies on the NHS. Flu vaccination is available at your GP surgery and at many community pharmacies across Wales. It is the best way to protect yourself and others against this dangerous virus, so make sure you get protected soon. Dr Richard Roberts, head of the vaccine preventable disease programme at Public Health Wales, said: Each year new flu viruses circulate, causing many people to be ill and some to face life-threatening complications and flu vaccines are changed each year to try to match the flu viruses circulating in order to give the best protection. Last winter there were 2,680 patients with confirmed flu in hospitals 192 in intensive care units. As well as the impact on these individuals, this places an additional pressure on the health service at a busy time of year. People with chronic conditions or compromised immune systems are over ten times more likely to suffer severe outcomes from influenza and we want to see even more people protected this year. While most NHS flu vaccines are given in GP surgeries, it is also available for adults in many community pharmacies across Wales. Flu is a respiratory illness caused by a virus that affects the lungs and airways. Symptoms generally come on suddenly, and can include fever, chills, headache, cough, body aches and fatigue. Flu is spread via droplets which are sprayed into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Direct contact with contaminated hands or surfaces can also spread infection. It can spread rapidly, especially in closed communities such as hospitals, residential homes and schools. Find out more by visiting www.beatflu.org or www.curwchffliw.org or finding Beat Flu or Curwch Ffliw on Twitter and Facebook. TEMPE, Ariz., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NKK Switches partnered with Arizona State University Devils Invent to hold an engineering design challenge incorporating the NKK SmartSwitch. Located at the Generator Labs on ASUs Tempe campus over the weekend of September 21-23, the hackathon-style challenge concluded with 14 student team presentations and prototype application designs judged by a panel of NKK and ASU staff. Participants worked with NKKs SmartSwitch product, which NKK donated for the engineering design challenge. SmartSwitch is a fully programmable HMI device that combines the functionality of an electro-mechanical switch with the versatility of a touchscreen display. The student participants were tasked to come up with an application for SmartSwitch that could simplify a daily task. The design challenge was open to all ASU students, from freshman to Ph.D. candidates, and helped to promote creativity by encouraging students to design, build and implement an innovative engineering solution. NKK Switches of America, Inc. president Masanori Honda was on hand to award prizes for the top designs. ASU Devils Invent worked hard to provide a truly collaborative, inspiring environment for the students to design their SmartSwitch applications, stated Honda. It was amazing to see the intelligence and passion of the students on display during this weekend-long design challenge. The winning designs were innovations that I have not seen before in an application. ASU Devils Invent representative Anthony Kuhn, stated, "Our SmartSwitch Devils Invent was our highest-attended event to date. Over the course of one weekend, more than 80 ASU students were able to learn skills that would normally take weeks to assimilate. This was all made possible through hands-on experience with technology and experts that NKK Switches provided." The success of this years event has already inspired plans for a long-term partnership, including annual events featuring NKK SmartSwitch products and other tech offerings from the global manufacturer of electro-mechanical switches. To learn more about Devils Invent, visit entrepreneurship.engineering.asu.edu/devils-invent/. About NKK Switches NKK Switches (NKK) is a world leading designer and manufacturer of innovative electro-mechanical switches. By designing, manufacturing and selling the industrys most extensive selection of electro-mechanical switches, NKK sets the standard for quality, stability and reliability in switch solutions. NKK provides a full suite of customizable solutions that includes design, programming and value-added support by combining flexibility, expertise and a commitment to our partners success. For more information, visit www.nkkswitches.com. About Devils Invent Arizona State University Devils Invent is a series of weekend-long engineering and design challenges. Participating students are encouraged to design, build, and implement innovative solutions to challenging problem statements submitted by community, industry and University partners. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/157a56d4-c78e-4512-bd58-e6de9fb61e8b Mortar devices trigger Holt Road bomb disposal closure items turn out to be fire extinguishers This article is old - Published: Wednesday, Oct 3rd, 2018 Update: North Wales Police have told us someone working on a property thought they had come across mortar devices. Thankfully they turned out to be pressurised fire extinguishers No evacuation was required and the incident is over. Original information below Police have closed part of Holt Road this afternoon as emergency services attend a property. A bomb disposal unit is also part of the emergency service response. The focus appears to be an address close to the corner of Holt Road and Borras Road, near to the McColls shop. More shortly. Stark choices for people of Wrexham as inevitable council cuts could be deeper if no fair funding from Welsh Government This article is old - Published: Wednesday, Oct 3rd, 2018 Members of the public are being warned of some bleak choices ahead due to looming budget cuts with a forthcoming consultation being pitched as pulling together to support Wrexhams essential services. In a few days time the provisional settlement to Wrexham Council from Welsh Government will be known, with the Council Leader Mark Pritchard and new Chief Executive Ian Bancroft jointly asking for fair funding and preparing the people of Wrexham for some stark choices. Over the last few years the Council have asked for feedback on their yearly budgets via the Difficult Decisions consultations, usually given as a list of possible savings or reshaping processes and you being asked to give your thoughts. It is also looking likely that council tax payers will be asked to help do their bit to protect front line services. Over the years the language has changed, and now the council is referencing cuts, cuts and more cuts, when previously we had been effectively told off for using such blunt terms to describe what has been warmly branded as reshaping. Part of the money flow into Wrexham Council comes via the Welsh Government settlement, that starts off as a provisional sum and then firms up in the new year. However Wrexham Council is preparing a budget based off what they think they will get, but the new Chief Executive is making it clear that even in a best case scenario there will be an impact, and if there is not what he describes as a fair settlement the cuts will go further. Speaking yesterday, Mr Bancroft said: At the moment were planning for what we think would be a fair settlement and if we can do that we think we can support our key frontline services like schools, childrens social care and adult social care. If we dont get a fair settlement then were going to have to go further than that. Its really important that everyone understands locally that depending on the settlement well have to make some difficult choices if that isnt fair. In past years, we have made significant savings and cuts to services while minimising the impact on front-line essential services. If we dont get a fair settlement from Welsh Government we will not be able to manage this for 2019/20. These essential services could be put at risk. Cllr Pritchard added: Being at the cliff edge is how I have to describe it. If we dont get a fair settlement we will have to stop services. We have had to take substantial money out, and we simply cant continue to do that, it is unsustainable. Wrexham Council has made 33.8m of cuts in the last five years and nearly 60m since 2007. Previously Difficult Decisions consultations have included a lengthy online web form, however indications are that this year the requested feedback could be much shorter perhaps even seeing the people of Wrexham being asked if they would support paying more council tax to support front line services, or even bin collections changing. Mr Bancroft went on to say: This is an important democratic process, the budget is one of the big decisions the council makes. The plea I would make is there is a real conversation. We need to recognise there will be different views, and the difficulty we have as a council is trying to balance those perspectives in coming to final decisions. These choices are really important this year, having a proper debate on how important children, adult social care, schools are and how that relates to council tax. Also discussion on services we have choices about, in terms of things like library services and how we do waste collections. I think that is the important frame of the debate. It is critical we listen, but also we recognise we will not get agreement from everyone on all of it. He added: For me, it is the conversation that is really really important on it, this is a two way thing. Cllr Pritchard said austerity measures being passed down the chain to local authorities were endless, and warned of smoke and mirrors spin around the forthcoming budget announcement. People still think the council has lots of money, them days are gone. Now it is cuts, cuts and more cuts, said Cllr Pritchard. With the council leader putting the blame at the door of Number 10 in London as well as Welsh Government in Cardiff, we enquired if his fellow executive board councillors attending the Conservative conference this week had been passing on the message of woe from Wrexham and Wales, he told us They better had be! This video of Liz Truss MP (Chief Secretary to the Treasury) speaking to Newsnight about the funding situation of local authorities in England, indicates dipping into reserves and raising council tax is something that is seen as welcome options. Mr Bancroft spoke of how he hoped Welsh Government will play their part, saying Wrexham Council themselves are playing our part via senior management changes. The detail is not yet public, as various meetings on the topic have been held in Part 2 secrecy due to it including information about the futures of peoples jobs. Information on what that has entailed will come out later in the year when it is due for approval, but has been described as making significant savings. Cllr Mark Prichard added: None of us as politicians or senior officers came into public service wanting to have to deal with these types of issues, but until austerity and poor budget settlements stop, we will as leaders of the council do the best we can on behalf of residents. The Welsh Local Government Association has also issued a statement after the draft budget being circulated by Welsh Government, Councillor Anthony Hunt (Torfaen), WLGA Spokesperson for Finance and Resource said: The publication of the Welsh Governments outline draft budget marks the ninth year in a row that councils have been left with significant budget shortfalls during the era of austerity. The scale of the financial challenge facing local services in 2019-20 is enormous, at 264m or around 5% of net spend. This includes the challenge of finding 159m for much needed pay rises for hard working staff, and many other pressures on local services. The challenge facing councils to keep vital local services like schools and social care running cannot be overstated. If austerity doesnt end soon, public services as we know them will be a thing of the past. We are grateful for the extensive engagement of Cabinet Secretary for Finance and for his openness in recognising that this outcome does not meet the pressures faced by councils. I hope that dialogue continues as we move towards a final budget. However, we await the publication of the provisional settlement next week with trepidation. We recognise that things are tough for the Welsh Government thanks to austerity, but we want to work together with them to achieve a far better outcome for local services. This could be achieved with a more equitable distribution of any Barnett consequentials. Also, in what is a first for a Chief Executive that we can remember, a video has been published from Mr Bancroft entitled Hello from Ian!: With great fanfare on Tuesday, Amazon announced it will raise the minimum wage it pays to 250,000 workers and 100,000 seasonal temps to $15 an hour. In the United Kingdom, the company is raising the wages of 40,000 permanent and temporary workers to 10.50 (US $13.69) an hour in London and 9.50 (US $12.39) across the rest of the country. The wage increases, which will go into effect for Amazon and Whole Foods workers on November 1, are a response to the deep opposition of Amazon workers to the poverty level wages and brutal working conditions at the giant retail and logistics company. The growing militancy of Amazon workers is, moreover, part of a wider sentiment among workers in the US and internationally, who after a decade of declining real wages since the 2008 financial crash are determined to fight for substantial improvements. The pay increase, however, is minimal and will do little to improve the living standards of Amazon workers. The median Amazon worker was paid $28,446 last year, according to company filings, which comes out to about $13.68 an hour. An increase to $15.00 an hour$1.32 more for the median workerwould amount to a yearly wage of $30,000. This is 120 percent of the official poverty rate for a family of four and will do little to help workers keep their heads above water, particularly in urban centers with higher costs of living. Internal company documents available to Amazon workers make clear that the raise will be accompanied by the elimination of various incentive bonuses and other programs, which workers rely on to help with bills and car payments. This includes all or parts of the Variable Compensation Plan (VCP) and MyReward bonuses based on attendance and site performance goals. Also cut is the limited stock vesting program, known as the Restricted Stock Units (RSU) plan. We are phasing out the incentive pay component and the $15 will be simple minimum with no targets required, one message from the company to workers said. Another read, We will be phasing out the RSU grant program for stock which would vest in 2020 and 2021 replacing it with a direct stock purchase plan before the end of 2019. According to Amazon, full-time workers at its US fulfillment centers already make an average hourly wage of over $15 an hour, including stock and incentive bonuses. It is not clear, therefore, if workers will see any net benefit from the much-promoted raise. At first, I thought, $15 an hour, thats a start. But when you do the math, it does not add up to very much, Shannon Allen, a worker from Amazons fulfillment center in Haslet, Texas, who became homeless after suffering a serious workplace injury, told the International Amazon Workers Voice. There will be a raise, but they are taking away our bonus at the end of the month and the stocks we were entitled to. Workers are still not getting medical treatment after getting injured. Workers are still starving. Workers are still homeless. What about the workers in India? Are they going to get $15 too or are they still going to be getting $267 a month? I would love to know that, Allen said. The move by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos was carefully orchestrated with the Democratic Party to bolster the image of the company. Last month, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders introduced legislation, called the Bezos Act, to tax corporations for what their low-wage workers receive in government health-care benefits or food stamps. We listened to our critics, thought hard about what we wanted to do and decided we want to lead, Bezos said in a statement Tuesday. Were excited about this change and encourage our competitors and other large employers to join us. Bezos said the company would also lobby for an increase in the federal minimum wage, which has not increased from $7.25 in a decade. Sanders, right on cue, hailed the move, saying, Today I want to give credit where credit is due, and that is that Mr. Bezos and Amazon have done the right thing. This is a significant step forward for many thousands of Amazon employees. Sanders added, Not only does this make a difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of Amazon employees, it also sends a message to the fast food industry, the airline industry and the retail industry in general that the time is now to begin paying workers a living wage. To call $15 a living wage is ludicrous. The average hourly wage in manufacturing four decades ago would be the equivalent of $23 an hour in 2018 dollars. The $15 mark advocated by Sanders and the union- and Democratic Party-aligned Fight for $15 campaign has increasingly become the new norm, including in the auto industry. The billionaire CEO is not being motivated by high ideals but by cold, hard cash considerations. With the official unemployment rate falling to the lowest level in nearly two decades, large employers like Amazon are increasingly competing for workers, particularly for the upcoming holiday rush. In January, Walmart raised its minimum wage to $11. Facebook boosted its minimum wage for janitorial staff, food-service workers and other contractors to $15 an hour and Costco pays $14 an hour. Target, which plans to hire 120,000 temporary workers this holiday season is paying $12 an hour and offering a chance at $500 gift cards. Amazons move takes place after the companys proposal last month for 2 to 4 percent raises was met with disgust from workers. It wasnt enough at all, one part-time worker in San Bernardino, California, told Bezos Washington Post about a 40-cent increase that would raise her pay to $13.15. The HR manager in the room was like, Arent you excited? Come on, clap! We started a slow clap, with no emotions on our faces. A 3 percent raise in four yearsit feels like damage control. After a four-decade decline in real wages, workers are earning barely enough to subsist. If some employers are raising wages it is because they need workers in their factories to pump profits out of them. Analysts have already said the meager raise will have no negative effect on the bottom line of the company whose market capitalization reached $1 trillion last month. Nor will it make a dent on Jeff Bezos, whose net worth increased to $165 billion earlier this summer making him the richest man in modern history. If this wealth was divided equally among Amazons global employees, each would get a check for $300,000. Whatever raise is given to Amazon workers will be more than made up through ever greater exploitation, higher pace, and more workplace injuries. The company already uses electronic devices to monitor productivity and time workers during their bathroom breaks and now new technology is being tested that will use sound pulses to redirect a workers hand if he moves it in the wrong direction while moving items from a bin to a delivery box. It is well worth examining what Bezos is doing from the standpoint of history. More than a century ago another corporate magnate, Henry Ford, more than doubled the wages of his workers, raising them to $5 per day, from about $2.38 a day. The move was not motivated by a sudden burst of generosity from Ford, then the richest man in the world. Instead, Ford wanted to lower the turnover rate at his Highland Park, Michigan, factory where workers were leaving in droves because of brutal speed up on the new assembly lines. Ford was also alarmed by the growing support for socialist and labor organizers. After introducing the new wage in 1914, his profits doubled, and Ford declared two years later, The payment of $5 a day for an eight-hour day was one of the finest cost-cutting moves we ever made. Under conditions of growing class conflict in the US and around the world and the growth of socialist and anti-capitalist sentiment, Sanders and the Democratic Party would have workers believe that they can improve their conditions, not through collective struggle, but through appeals to the magnanimity of billionaires like Bezos. But securing the right to good-paying and safe jobs will not be possible without building a powerful movement of the working class and carrying out a frontal assault on the entrenched wealth and political power of the corporate and financial oligarchy. To initiate this, the International Amazon Workers Voice is fighting for the formation of rank-and-file factory and workplace committees, independent of the corporate-controlled unions and political parties. This must be combined with a political struggle by workers to overthrow the economic and political dictatorship of the capitalist exploiters, expropriate their fortunes, and transform giant corporations like Amazon into public enterprises, collectively owned and democratically controlled by the working class. David North, International Editorial Board chairman of the World Socialist Web Site, addressed an October 1 media conference in Colombo on forthcoming public meetings to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Fourth International and the 50th anniversary of the Socialist Equality Party (SEP) in Sri Lanka. He will speak at Peradeniya University in Kandy today, October 3, and New Town Hall in Colombo on October 7. North provided a brief overview of Leon Trotskys struggle against the Stalinist bureaucracy in the Soviet Union, culminating in the founding of the Fourth International, and told journalists that the decades-long fight for socialist internationalism was of vital significance in the contemporary struggle for socialism. David North The American Trotskyist thanked the SEP for inviting him to speak in Sri Lanka, adding: The principled and courageous struggle that the SEP has waged, over a period of a half century, for the unity of all sections of the working class in Sri Lanka, regardless of ethnic or religious background, is well known to, and has inspired, socialists throughout the world. Opening the press conference, SEP general secretary Wije Dias said the capitalist ruling classes could not explain the underlying reasons for the current economic crisis, let alone present any solutions, and are moving toward dictatorial and autocratic forms of rule. Wije Dias Only the SEP and the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI), and its publication, the WSWS, have been to able present a viable explanation for the economic breakdown and the associated political crisis, he said. Introducing David North, Dias outlined the WSWS International Editorial Board chairmans four-decade role in the world Trotskyist movement and referred journalists to his books, some of which have been translated into Sinhala and Tamil. These included In Defense of Leon Trotsky, The Russian Revolution and the Unfinished Twentieth Century, A Quarter Century of War: The US drive for global hegemony 1991 2016, and The Heritage We Defend: A Contribution to the History of the Fourth International. Norths address to Mondays media conference, which was attended by reporters from Rupavahini, the national television channel, the state-owned Independent Television Network (ITN), Capitol Radio and Lanka Web News, provoked several thoughtful questions. A Capital Radio reporter asked how socialists should respond to the challenges posed by new technological developments. David North speaking at the press conference North replied: The development of technology is an immensely progressive factor. Socialists take a critical standpoint toward technology as a factor facilitating the development of socialism. First, it provides the masses direct access to vast amounts of information. Secondly it vastly facilitates the means of communication, contributing to the unification of the struggles of working class and cutting across and undermining national boundaries. Finally, developments like artificial intelligence make it possible to reorganise the world economy in the interests of the global population. Once the means of production are taken out of the hands of private ownershipout of production for profitthese developments make it possible to unify workers all over the world, utilise production in the interests of the majority, and introduce scientific planning. North was asked by the same journalist to comment on what appeared to be little interest amongst youth in socialism. North responded by explaining that the betrayals and historical falsifications of Stalinism and social democracy, and the dissolution of the Soviet Union created immense confusion amongst the masses. Parties that called themselves socialist and communist carried out policies that were never Marxist. North continued: But we are now living through a different period, where the working class once again is gaining momentum and needs to fight against the onslaught of social and political reaction. The last three decades have seen a universal decline of the living conditions of broad sections of the working class. After decades of anti-communist propaganda in the US, there is now a massive and growing interest in socialism. Young people now have a more favourable view of socialism after having lived under capitalism. I think we are now living in a period where socialism, revolutionary Marxism and internationalism are going to find a broader reception within the working class. An ITN journalist asked how the Fourth International responded to other left organisations. North said that many of the political movements emerging in the current crisis and political radicalisation did not have serious answers and could not provide answers to historical questions concerning the fate of the various national bourgeois movements that have failed in every country. The Trotskyist movement has analysed and explained their fallacies. Contrary to all of these organisations, the starting point of the ICFI is not the national conditions of any given country, but world politics and world economy, North said. ITNs 6:30 p.m. Sinhala news bulletin included a three-minute report on the press conference and featured the covers of Norths books. The networks English-language news service, as well as Vasantham, its Tamil-language bulletin, also carried brief reports. The right-wing populist Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQCoalition for Quebecs Future) won a solid parliamentary majority in Mondays Quebec election, unseating the Liberal government of Philippe Couillard and shattering the duopoly that the federalist Liberals and pro-independantiste Parti Quebecois (PQ) have exercised over Quebecs government for the past half century. The Liberals and PQ, which have jointly presided over decades of austerity, both polled their lowest-ever share of the popular vote, 24.8 percent and 17.1 percent respectively. With just nine seats, the PQ will not even have official party status in the Quebec National Assembly. The CAQ, led by former Air Transat boss and PQ cabinet minister Francois Legault, cynically promoted itself as the agent of change, although it is committed to an even more right-wing variant of the big business agenda that all Liberal and PQ governments have pursued since the 1980s. To its own surprise, Quebec Solidaire, a self-avowed left nationalist party, emerged during the five-and-a-half week campaign as a pole of attraction for working people, especially youth, seeking a means to fight capitalist austerity. Quebec Solidaire won 16.1 percent of the popular vote, more than double the 7.63 percent share it garnered in the 2014 election, and took 10 seats, as compared with three seats four years ago, making it the second-largest opposition party after the Liberals. Media claims of a CAQ sweep are a deliberate attempt to intimidate working-class opposition to an incoming government committed to expanding for-profit health care, slashing public sector jobs, gutting regulatory restraints on big business, and implementing chauvinist measures attacking immigrants and religious minorities. Benefiting from the many three-way and four-way electoral races, the CAQ was able to capture 74 of the 125 National Assembly seats with only 37.4 percent of the vote. When the third of the electorate that didnt vote is factored in, the CAQ won the support of just one in every four Quebeckers. The CAQ and the rise of an explicitly right-wing Quebec nationalism That said, there is no question that with the CAQs rise to power, official Quebec politics have swung still further right. The CAQ was created by Legault and billionaire businessman Charles Sirois in 2012 with the aim of exploiting the already manifest mass popular disaffection with the Liberals and PQ to push Quebec politics sharply further right. A key tenet of the CAQ at its founding was an appeal for Quebecs elite to put aside the question of Quebecs constitutional status for a generation, so that federalists and sovereignists (supporters of Quebec independence) could unite in building a more entrepreneurial and competitive Quebec. Or, stripped of the buzzwords, so that both factions of the ruling establishment could concentrate on slashing and privatizing public services and forcing through other regressive big business reforms in the face of mass working-class opposition. At the CAQs launch, Legault was joined by a handful of sitting and former PQ MNAs and by what remained of the right-wing populist Action Democratique du Quebec (ADQ)which, after years of being an also-ran in Quebec politics, had briefly risen to be the Official Opposition in 2007, having whipped up, along with the tabloid press, a furor over so-called excessive accommodations to Muslims and other religious minorities. Quebec chauvinist appeals remain central to the CAQ, which now defines itself as a Quebec nationalist and autonomist party seeking more powers for the Quebec state within the Canadian federal system. In the just concluded election campaign, Legault brazenly lied about his big business agenda, promising to reinvest in Quebecs dilapidated public health care and education systems, while slashing taxes and making Quebec a magnet for investors. He also gave front and centre to chauvinist appeals, fanning a new explicitly right-wing Quebec nationalism that all four parties, including Quebec Solidaire, have helped incubate over the past decade through the reactionary accommodation debate, and their various proposals to ban some or all public employees from wearing religious symbols and deny public services to Muslim women who choose to wear religious face coverings. Insinuating that immigrants are a threat, Legault pledged a CAQ government would slash the provinces annual intake of immigrants by 20 percent and expel immigrants who fail French-language and Quebec values tests after three years residence in the province. Asked by a CAQ supporter in the final days of the campaign whether he would fight for us against immigrants who are effacing us, Legault exclaimed, Yes, of course It is a question of protecting who we are as Quebeckers. There is no question but that the working class will come into bitter conflict with the Legault-led CAQ government. Ten years after the 2008 global financial implosion, world capitalism is mired in a systemic breakdown, characterized by trade war, surging geopolitical tensions, rearmament, the spread of imperialist violence, and intensifying class struggle. Everywhere the ruling class is demanding the elimination of what remains of the social rights the working class wrenched from it through the mass and revolutionary struggles of the last century, so it can increase competitiveness and prevail in the global struggle for markets and profits. The unions, Quebec Solidaire and the struggle against capitalist austerity To prepare for the coming struggles, workers and youth urgently need to draw a political balance sheet of the repeated challenges workers in Quebec and across Canada have mounted to the ruling class agenda of austerity and war and their derailing by the pro-capitalist trade unions. Just to take Quebec. Mass social opposition has erupted repeatedly during the past six years, including in the six-month 2012 province-wide student strike, the 2013 and 2017 construction strikes, the protests against the Couillard governments slashing of municipal workers pensions, and the movement for a province-wide public sector workers general strike in 2015. At every point, the union bureaucracy isolated and suppressed these struggles, quarantining them within Quebec and straitjacketing them within the provinces reactionary labour laws, while vehemently opposing their transformation into a working-class political challenge to the state-employer class-war assault. This was demonstrated most graphically in the 2012 Quebec student strike. When workers in their hundreds of thousands took to the streets to oppose the Charest Liberal governments draconian anti-strike law (Bill 78), underscoring the potential for the strike to become the catalyst for a mass working-class challenge to austerity, the unions redoubled their efforts to shut it down and divert the opposition to Charest behind the big business PQ. Declaring the strike over, the Quebec Federation of Labour advanced the slogan From the streets, to the ballot box. Workers and young people who have turned to Quebec Solidaire (QS), believing it can serve as an instrument for opposing capitalist austerity, environmental devastation, and war, should beware. QS has assisted the union bureaucracy in derailing the class struggle, thereby creating the conditions where the right-wing populist CAQ could come to power exploiting the inchoate opposition of sections of the working class to the ruling elites traditional parties of government. When the union campaign to shut down the 2012 student strike was in high gear, QS assisted the unions efforts to burnish the badly frayed progressive credentials of the PQ, by offering to join it in an electoral alliance. Similarly, QS supported the unions betrayal of the 2015 public sector workers struggle, hailing as a victory concessionary contracts that slashed pensions and left all Couillards budget cuts in place. Quebec Solidaire is a pseudo-left party that voices the grievances of sections of the upper middle classprofessionals, trade union bureaucrats and small business peopleover the distribution of wealth between the capitalist oligarchy and the next 9 percent. Wedded to the capitalist social order, these privileged layers are adamantly opposed to the development of an independent political movement of the working class. During the just completed election campaign, QS combined calls for limited reformssuch as free university education, a 50 percent cut in public transit fares, and dental insurancewith steps aimed at integrating itself more fully into the political establishment and gaining a share in administering Quebec capitalism. This included an address by QS co-leader and candidate for premier Manon Masse to the Montreal Chamber of Commerce, in which she pooh-poohed the party programs call for selective nationalizations and reiterated that the private sector would have a vital role to play in a QS-led Quebec. It also saw Quebec Solidaire forge a common front, in the name of defending Quebecs interests, with Premier Couillard and PQ leader Jean-Francois Lisee to oppose any changes to Canadas supply-management agricultural system in pursuit of a NAFTA deal with the US. Speaking Monday evening at the QS post-election rally, Masse denounced the newly-revised NAFTA pact in reactionary nationalist terms, not as a trade-war bloc aimed at the North American working class and Canadian and US imperialisms rivals overseas, but as the dumping of Quebecs farmers for the benefit of Ontarios auto industry. Masse also went out of her way to make an overture to the politically shattered big business PQ, which, in the final days of the campaign, mounted a vicious red-baiting campaign against QS, accusing it of extremism and being led by a secret Politburo. Affirming Quebec Solidaires affinity with the PQ, which came to prominence in the late 1960s spouting left nationalist rhetoric not all that different from the QS of today, Masse claimed that the QS and PQ share a beautiful project. In fact that project, as has been demonstrated by the entire 50-year history of the PQ, is a sham and a trap for the working class. The answer to the social and political crisis lies in the mobilization of the international working class on an international socialist program, not the reshuffling of the borders of North America to create a capitalist Republique du Quebec. Recently the New York Times published an opinion piece by journalist Rebecca Traister headlined Fury Is a Political Weapon. And Women Need to Wield It. It centers on the competing testimonies of Christine Blasey Ford and Judge Brett Kavanaugh, Donald Trumps nominee for the US Supreme Court, at the September 27 Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. Ford has accused Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her in the early 1980s. Traisters piece is one of a number of books and articles along the same lines that have appeared in the past weeks and months. The books include Soraya Chemalys Rage Becomes Her: The Power of Womens Anger, Gemma Hartleys Fed Up: Emotional Labor, Women and the Way Forward and Traisters own Good and Mad: The Revolutionary Power of Womens Anger . Among the numerous articles, some of them devoted to the Kavanaugh-Blasey Ford controversy, are: Women, we must embrace our anger, Clementine Ford, Sydney Morning Herald, October 2; Why womens rage is healthy, rational and necessary for America, Carlos Lozada, Washington Post, September 27; Womens Rage Is the Most Powerful Engine of 2018, Stephanie Zacharek, Time, September 24; Finally, angry women are the solution and not a problembut we still have far to go, Emilie Pine, Guardian, September 24; and All the Best New Books and Films Are About Female Anger, Brianna Kovan, Elle, September 10. The Democratic Socialists of America, ordinarily one of the most tepid and mild-mannered of left-liberal organizations, has announced a week of action devoted to the effort to Stop Kavanaugh under the slogan Unleash Your Fury. The WSWS opposes Brett Kavanaughs nomination to the US Supreme Court because he is a dyed-in-the-wool reactionary and representative of the financial oligarchy, a conspirator against democratic rights and enemy of the working class. However, the Democratic Partys campaign to Stop Kavanaugh has nothing progressive or left-wing about it. To block this particular reactionary from joining the high court, the Democrats have adopted the tactics associated with the ultra-right: above all, attacks on the presumption of innocence and legal due process. They have eagerly borrowed the methods of the #MeToo sexual witch hunt, which has already seriously undermined the rights of those accused of crimes or merely charged with improper or inappropriate behavior. The Kavanaugh-Blasey Ford issue has become the means by which a great deal of petty-bourgeois anger has burst through the dam of respectability. Indeed, the argument is openly being advanced that the supposed unfairness of the hearing vindicates and demonstrates the need for such fury. In her New York Times piece, Traister asserts that, in reaction to the Blasey Ford testimony and the Republican counter-attack, women were incandescent with rage and sorrow and horror. Which women? Whenever an establishment political commentator refers to Women in general, or Men in general, she or he, of course, means people like her or himself, i.e., other petty-bourgeois. In any case, Traister writes that women were getting angry in a new way, a public way, an unapologetic way. And, in fact, there is a kernel of truth to this. Women like Traister are getting angrier and angrier. Why is that so? First, it should be pointed out that this appeal to fury is associated with a distinct turn toward the irrational in upper-middle class, identity politics circles. In recent years, and especially over the past 12 months, we have been told by their supporters that we need to believe the various women (and some men) accusers. That is to say, faith has been elevated over reason, an essentially religious-mythic world outlook over a scientific one, irrationalism over the insistence that objective truth be subject to empirical verification. Decades and decades of intellectual degeneration lie behind such an approach. Trends such as so-called Western Marxism and the Frankfurt School, in the person of Herbert Marcuse and other figures, placed great emphasis on the problems of alienation and sexual repression at the expense of the centrality of class exploitation within capitalism. Postmodernism has brazenly promoted irrationalism and philosophical subjectivism, denying the possibility of knowing the world or history objectively. Its rejection of the grand narrative of the class struggle and emphasis on difference and micro-politics helped usher in the era of identity politics, obsessed with race, nationality, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation. An aspect of this irrationalism has been the re-emergence and legitimizing of myth in pseudo-left circles, in accordance with Nietzsches view: Without myth, however, every culture loses its healthy creative natural power: it is only a horizon encompassed with myth that rounds off to unity a social movement. In other words, it is not important, in many cases, whether an allegation of sexual abuse is factually true if it speaks to supposedly wider realities. One of the best expositions of this view was offered by Guardian columnist Jessica Valenti in 2014. In response to the rapid unraveling of the Rolling Stone story about Jackie, a young woman who claimed to have been the victim of a gang rape at a fraternity house at the University of Virginia, Valenti offered this headline and subheadline: Who is Jackie? Rolling Stones rape story is about a personand I believe her: No matter how the frenzy of denial ends, there is a reason that people believe this young woman: because there are too many people like her. Valenti explained, I choose to believe Jackie. I lose nothing by doing so, even if Im later proven wrongbut at least I will still be able to sleep at night for having stood by a young woman who may have been through an awful trauma. And further: No matter how the media story ends, or what we come to know, there is a reason that people believed and continue to believe Jackie: There are so many peopletoo many peoplewho report similar attacks. And if, according to the logic of Valentis arguments, someone were sent to prison for years or merely had his or her life ruined in such a spurious case, that would apparently be a small price to pay for holding up the principle: but, after all, such things do happen! This sort of mythological thinking has become deeply embedded in American political life and now manifests itself in the activities and outpourings of both major bourgeois parties, as well as leading publications. It is both profoundly irrationalist and anti-democratic. The socialist movement stands for rationality and objective analysis as the basis of political activity. It is not for nothing that the principal socialist journal in the US in the late 19th and early 20th centuries was named the Appeal to Reason. In his well-known work, Fascism and Big Business (1936), the left-wing writer Daniel Guerin explained, Socialism is less a religion than a scientific conception. Therefore it appeals more to intelligence and reason than to the senses and the imagination. Socialism does not impose a faith to be accepted without discussion; it presents a rational criticism of the capitalist system and requires of everybody, before his adherence, a personal effort of reason and judgment. It appeals more to the brain than to the eye or the nerves; it seeks to convince the reader or listener calmly, not to seize him, move him, and hypnotize him. Nor is the appeal to emotion in the recent books and articles dedicated to female rage some sort of summoning of revolutionary anger against the existing system. After all, Karl Marx long ago paid tribute to that concentrated, conscious class hatred which is the best guarantee for a social upheaval. In the same vein, Leon Trotsky, on the eve of the 1905 Revolution in Russia, urged that all efforts ought to be made to concentrate the bitterness, the anger, the protest, the rage, the hatred of the masses, to give those emotions a common language, a common goal, to unite, to solidify all the particles of the masses, to make them feel and understand that they are not isolated, that simultaneously, with the same slogan on the banner, with the same goal in mind, innumerable particles are rising everywhere. If this understanding is achieved, half of the revolution is done. No, what we are dealing with has nothing in common with this. The Democratic Party chose the issue of alleged sexual violence to mobilize its base against Kavanaugh, though Democrats had previously declared that it was impossible to block the nomination, for definite political reasons. It never occurred to the Democratic Party that it should seek to mobilize mass working class angerrage, if you willon a class and socially progressive basis. That sort of anger holds no attraction to the Democrats and their supporters in the media. A reviewer of Good and Mad, in the Pacific Standard, notes correctly, Traister contends that gender-based rage crosses racial, socioeconomic, geographic, and generational distinctions. This is gender-exclusive, petty-bourgeois rage, the rage of thwarted or stunted ambitions. This is the outrage of the female journalist, academic, union official, lower-level executive or manager, whose income is in the six-figure range, directed against those who are making serious money, the individuals, mostly white and male, who are in the hundred-million and billion-dollar club. As we have pointed out previously, Traister, Soraya Chemaly, Times Stephanie Zacharek (who informs us that if you are a woman, chances are youre feeling so much rage that there simply arent enough hours in the day to contain it all) and company are not angered nearly so much by American imperialist crimes in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, Syria and Yemen. In some cases, they are openly supportive. Traister opposed the invasion of Iraq, but over the course of a decade managed to reconcile herself to Hillary Clinton, who voted for that murderous operation and participated in an administration infamous for drone strikes and kill lists, and became a vociferous supporter by the 2016 election. Neither the plight of tens of millions of refugees nor the conditions of the oppressed in every part of the globe infuriates this crowd a fraction as much as their own sense of deprivation, of being hard done by. Traister condescendingly dismisses the understandable frustrations of white working class men in the Rust Belt (the loss of jobs and stature, the shortage of affordable health care, the scourge of drugs) as merely a further example of the anger of white men. In her book, Traister spells it out: Weve got to think about these thingshistory and futurebecause we are in the midst of a potentially revolutionary moment: not one in which all wrongs will be righted or errors fixed. But one with the potential for a big alteration in who has power in this country. She is not speaking of the working class taking power, but of an alteration in favor of individuals like herself, who feel semi-excluded from the most powerful seats of political and economic influence. Approvingly, the same Pacific Standard reviewer writes, Indeed, Traisters predictions could well come to pass in the 2018 mid-term elections. According to the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University, an unprecedented 23 women are running for seats in the Senate, 239 women are running for the House of Representatives, 16 women are running for governor, and 26 women are running for lieutenant governor. Another 3,386 women are running for state legislative seats. These are record numbers in all categories. More female politicians, more female CEOs, more female millionaires and billionairesthis is the wretched perspective of these elements. Just for the record, and so we are quite clear: The life of a male coal miner in Kentucky, or an unemployed male youth in Ohio, or an opioid-addicted middle-aged man in Pennsylvania, or virtually any male or female member of the working class, is a hundred times more burdensome and oppressed than the conditions faced by Traister, Chemaly and all her well-to-do colleagues. There isnt even a serious comparison. Again, it is a sign of the extraordinary rightward movement in the intelligentsia that one even feels obliged to make this point, which would have been ABC as recently as the early 1970s. Sympathy for the poor and oppressed as a social class was still widespread among intellectuals and artists until that time. Now the majority reserve that sympathy almost exclusively for themselves. The appeal to fury and outrage, the shift toward irrationalism, the accommodation with imperialist human rights interventions, the authoritarian, anti-democratic methods and attitudes and the extreme levels of self-pity and self-centeredness all point to a further sharp turn to the right in political orientation by layers of the privileged petty-bourgeoisie. We do not speak lightly of the whiff of fascism in such views. The National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) has recommended a new enterprise agreement for academic and professional staff at the University of Melbourne that involves a real wage cut and paves the way for further layoffs and increases to staff workloads. The agreement was ratified by an NTEU sub-branch meeting on August 23. The union then called a celebration, in order to present the deal with the management as a fait accompli even before a ballot of all staff members. Over the past year, the NTEU has pushed through real wage cuts and multiple regressive agreements covering different university campuses across Australia, including Murdoch University in Western Australia. Via the enterprise agreement process, the union has repeatedly demonstrated its role in assisting the ongoing free market restructuring of tertiary education and in working closely with university managements against the interests of academics and other professional staff. This process divides university workers, institution by institution, and helps each individual management impose the burden of the billions of dollars in cuts inflicted by successive Labor and Liberal-National Coalition governments since 2013. The universities are being transformed into corporatised entities, serving the needs of the financial elite, at the expense of the working conditions and pay levels of staff. At the University of Melbourne, only around 1,500 of the universitys 13,600 employees are members of the NTEU, reflecting widespread disaffection with the union, as well as the casualisation of the workforce. The Age last month reported that 27 of Australias 42 universities now have more than 40 percent of all staff on casual contracts. This does not include staff on fixed-term contracts; those with a secure, ongoing position are now in the minority in most Australian campuses. University of Melbourne staff staged a four-hour strike last May, which the NTEU diverted behind the Australian Council of Trades Unions bogus Change the Rules campaign that is aimed at promoting the Labor Party in the upcoming federal election. Another five-hour strike had been planned for August 14, as well as a boycott and protest of the universitys Open Day on August 19. However these limited actions were called off on August 10 after the NTEU announced that an in-principle agreement had been reached with the management. The NTEU is promoting the agreement on the grounds that the management withdrew previous demands to strip references to academic freedom from the agreement and to split academic and professional staff between two separate industrial agreements. The union also claimed a small number of achievements that mostly comprised empty verbal commitments by the university on staffing and workload. Another achievement was an increase in employer superannuation contribution to 17 percent of salary for ongoing staffbut this will only begin at the end of the agreement, i.e. in 51 months time. On virtually every substantive issue concerning staff wages and working conditions, the NTEU made significant concessions in line with the managements requirements. The deal involves a nominal annual wage rise of just 2.1 percent, an effective pay cut for the next four years, given rising costs of living. The NTEUs own summary of the agreement admits to an additional 12 different concessions. Several of these relate to workload: there is no inclusion of staff to student ratios, with the union claiming that ratios were mostly unenforceable and historically ineffective in monitoring workloads. Having failed to stem worsening ratios and workloads, the NTEU is now opening the door for even worse conditions, affecting both staff and students. Another concession affects the ability of staff to work flexible hours. Several of the acknowledged concessions are aimed at expanding the universitys ability to impose layoffs. A new clause allows management to direct an employee to leave work in circumstances where there is a reasonable concern about the employees health or wellbeing. This creates the conditions for victimisation of staff on alleged mental or physical health grounds. A new clause allows sackings for unauthorised absences of more than 40 days. Another concession concerns management of unsatisfactory work performance and misconduct [and] grievance and disputes procedure. This places the fate of a staff member accused of misconduct or unsatisfactory performance in the hands of a disputes committee, with clauses removed that previously permitted an appeal to the Fair Work Commission industrial tribunal. After the NTEUs declaration of an in-principle agreement, one university staff member identified only as Allan, responded online: [T]he timings [sic] for management agreeing is interesting given a large number of major changes and redundancies are planned between now and end of 2018. By signing on the dotted line the Union gives away its protected industrial action abilities which means when the proverbial hits the fan the NTEU membership cannot take any further action to shield workers. The University wants this settled because its larger and more important agenda is to clean house before the new Vice Chancellor officially takes over. Theres a whole heap of pain yet to come for staff in the next 56 months... The NTEU did not respond to the post. The union will bear direct responsibility for any sackings organised by university management. Universities have been restructured over the past three decades along business lines, with damaging effects on academics and students alike. Just days after the NTEU struck the University of Melbourne deal, an article published in the Fairfax press revealed that the average annual salary for university vice-chancellors in Victoria and New South Wales has risen to over $1 million. The University of Melbournes defence of its vice-chancellors salary underscored the extent to which universities have been transformed into corporate entities. The university is an ASX100 [stock exchange] equivalent organisation, with an operating budget of over $2.5 billion (and) is Victorias third-largest employer, and single largest export earner, a spokesperson explained. University workers at the University of Melbourne and across Australia need to organise an independent fight for decent full-time and secure jobs, wages and conditions for all staff, and for the basic social right for students to a properly funded and free public education system at all levels, including tertiary education. This requires a break with the NTEU and the formation of action committees on every campus, uniting academics, professional staff, and students and turning out to other sections of the working class confronting similar attacks. Those who want to take forward this fight should contact the Committee For Public Education. The author also recommends: Australia: Reject NTEU sellout at Macquarie University! For a unified national struggle against cuts! [13 September 2018] With two days to go until the deadline for voting on the sellout contract backed by the Teamsters union and UPS management, there is widespread opposition among a quarter million UPS drivers and warehouse employees. The results of the vote are due to be released on Friday evening. Since the contract was released in July, the Teamsters has pursued a policy of lies, blackmail and browbeating against workers to push the deal through. Workers have been forced to work without a contract for the past three months as the union has sought to buy time to wear down widespread opposition. The unions strategy has been worked out in collaboration with BerlinRosen, the New York-based public relations firm aligned with the Democratic Party utilized by the United Auto Workers union to push through the concessions contract on auto workers in 2015. The agreement creates a hybrid driver/warehouse worker, who will be paid up to $6 per hour less than current drivers. The position is aimed at ultimately destroying the full-time driver position, and extending the conditions of part-time, low-wage labor from the warehouses to deliveries. Warehouse workers, who make up 70 percent of the workforce, will remain on poverty-level wages. The starting rate, which is currently $10 per hour, will reach $15 per hour by 2022, an amount that is not enough to live on even today. In a shot across the bow to UPS, Amazon announced Tuesday that it will raise the base rate for all 250,000 employees and 100,000 temps expected to be hired this holiday season to $15 an hour by November 1. The move is an effort by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos to preempt a revolt by Amazon workers against poverty level wages and sweatshop conditions. Under conditions of a near record low official unemployment rate and competition for labor, Amazons move could also be aimed at undermining rivals in the package delivery business like UPS. In an online conference call last month, the Teamsters chief negotiator Dennis Taylor made clear that the purpose of raising the starting wage for warehouse workers was to allow the company to continue to attract and retain a highly-exploited workforce. Because we have failed to address the start rate for so long, state and municipal minimum wage rates have begun to exceed the contract rate, which has made an already difficult hiring and retention problem worse each passing day, Taylor said. Taylor noted that the starting rate for part-time employees in 1980 was $8 per hour, the equivalent of almost $30 per hour today. Speaking like a true company man, he boasted that as a result of the unions role in cutting the real starting wage in every successive contract UPS was able to save millions of dollars each year. But Taylor absurdly declared that the purpose of handing over billions of dollars from workers to UPS executives and corporate shareholders over decades was done in order to receive pay increases and benefit increases that we otherwise would not have been able to negotiate for our current part-time and full-time members. According to this logic, the Teamsters executives collaborated with the company to slash the wages of workers in orderto raise workers wages! In combination with such pro-corporate lies, the union has threatened workers with the loss of their healthcare coverage if they strike and declared that the next offer will be worse if they reject the current contract. UPS workers have given statements to the WSWS UPS Workers Newsletter opposing the sellout and the lies and evasions of the Teamsters. A part-time loader in the San Francisco Bay Area who began working at the facility this year told us that the pitiful wage increase of $1 per year was a punch in the face to workers who load trucks the way we do. To live in the Bay Area, he said, You need to earn a minimum of $20 per hour. The worker had tried contacting Teamsters to find out when the next meeting is for negotiations, he said. They dont even answer the phone. I think we should get $4 raise each year for the next five years, or at least $3. The raise should take effect retroactively to when the old contract expired. When I talk to people at work, I tell them we should go on strike, the worker said. They say, Oh yeah, we should. This strike should have been going on a long time ago. If were working without a contract, we should be on strike. He added that, Its easier to fire one or two guys, and rehire one or two guys, but to replace the whole building would be impossible. Somebody needs to step up from each company, and say, This is not right. The worker said he felt sick to my stomach that the union was forcing workers to stay on the job after a 93 percent strike authorization vote. We dont have a representative to support the workers. We even have a supervisor who goes up and down the line yelling at us. Tiffany, a truck driver with 30 years in Oakland, said, I dont like what they are doing for the package handlers. No one is really giving any answers, so I dont know whats happening. Tiffany said some of the ballots that have been sent to workers in order to vote online electronically are missing a code, and if you dont have a code, they are invalid. She said the union reported alternative ballots would be available from the union hall to replace invalid ones, but that, Its very disorienting and I dont really know what is going to happen with the contract because its so unclear. DeAndre, a young warehouse worker in the Richmond facility in northern California, told us that most people are going to vote No. Im so fed up. There are a lot of long-time workers that have up until this point taken many concessions. There are also a lot of younger workers who desperately need money and get the job thinking they will move up quickly. But then they quit before too long if they find something else because its so bad. DeAndre added that the union tricked us, theyre not telling us straight. Teamsters havent been talking about anything, no meetings or anything. Workers know what they need, and they should be running things. Ed, a driver in Portland, said he is also voting against the sellout deal. He explained that workers would be hit by this agreement, which only helps the company make money by cutting costs and limiting the number of full-time jobs available. The second-tier hybrid position is basically a union-busting tactic aimed at pitting workers against one another. And the union is the one letting it happen. The WSWS UPS Workers Newsletter calls for workers to reject the deal with the contempt that it deserves. But that is only the beginning. The waging of a genuine struggle requires the formation of independent rank-and-file committees of workers in the hubs and warehouses, independent of the pro-corporate Teamsters union. These committees should link up with workers at other hubs, formulate their own demands and set a firm deadline for a strike. At the same time they should reach out to workers at Amazon, FedEx, US Postal Service and elsewhere to coordinate a united struggle. First lady Melania Trump's solo swing through Ghana, Malawi, Kenya and Egypt should come as no surprise. It has become something of a tradition for US first ladies. Abortion Abortion rights Africa Celebrities Charities and charitable giving Continents and regions Demographic groups Donald Trump Eastern Africa Families and children Family planning Females (demographic group) Government and public administration Government bodies and offices Health and medical International assistance International relations International relations and national security Latin America Malawi Medical treatments and procedures Melania Trump Mexico Mexico City North America Political Figures - US Population and demographics Sexual and reproductive health Societal issues Society The Americas United States US federal government White House In the 1990s, Hillary Clinton met with Nelson Mandela and toured his jail cell on Robben Island. Laura Bush traveled to Africa to visit HIV/AIDS programs. Michelle Obama, who focused more on domestic issues, still made it out to South Africa and Botswana on a solo tour. On her first solo trip abroad as first lady, Melania Trump wants to promote her "Be Best" campaign and highlight women's and children's health. But what differs from her predecessors' tours is that the sunny messaging during Trump's trip to Africa falls at odds with her husband's policies, say public health experts and leaders of nongovernmental organizations. "Because of President Trump's policies, we are denying women and children critical health assistance," said a director of a major family-planning and HIV charity in Malawi, adding that the presidential decree signed by Donald Trump just days into office is hurting the very people she wants to help. Like many of the people interviewed for this article, the director refused to be identified because it could jeopardize the charity's relationship with US Agency for International Development (USAID). 'Global gag rule' On January 23, 2017, President Trump reinstated the so-called Mexico City policy, which cuts US funding for foreign charities that provide or promote abortion -- even if abortion is legal in that country. First adopted by President Ronald Reagan, it is generally enacted during Republican administrations and dropped during Democratic ones, but Trump greatly expanded it to cover all health-related charities, not just family-planning organizations. Charities receiving US funding are also banned from advocating for changes in the law where abortion is illegal -- as in Malawi. "That is why some advocates call it the global gag rule, because it is policing speech as well as access to healthcare," said Jennifer Kates, vice president and director of global health and HIV policy at the Kaiser Family Foundation, a policy group. Maternal and newborn health are inextricably linked to family planning, said Kates. Shortly after the policy was reinstated, her organization and others predicted dire consequences for families throughout the developing world. Last year, CNN travelled to Malawi. The country's leading obstetrician was inundated in the main referral hospital in Blantyre, the country's second-largest city. Chisale Mhango was seeing 10 to 15 women a day for post-abortion surgeries. A staunch advocate of women's reproductive rights, he said that the country had made great strides in family-planning awareness, in large part thanks to USAID funding. But then, and now, he worries that progress could be lost. In Malawi, women often resort to seeing traditional healers who use poisonous concoctions to terminate pregnancies. The resulting trauma frequently ends in sepsis and sometimes death. Mhango said the situation has gotten worse since then. "We need to ensure funding for family planning; otherwise, we will continue to have problems with unsafe abortion," he said. But as the first lady touches down in Ghana, Malawi and Kenya, the impact of the Mexico City policy on family-planning programs is no longer hypothetical. The director of the Malawian family-planning charity said it refused to commit to complying with the new rules. "We are a right-based organization and we believe those rights should be maintained no matter what," she said. As a result, the charity has laid off a substantial number of its staff and cut more than a quarter of its health outreach programs because of lost USAID funding. She said the organization has closed clinics and HIV/AIDS and family-planning services in deep rural areas. Sometimes, they are the only ones operating in those regions. The charity is now scrambling for funding elsewhere, but some charities feel forced to make a different choice. Operating in a different part of Malawi, a director of a family-planning organization said there was no choice but to sign up to the conditions. "Of course, we would want to advocate for the law to change, because we believe that it leads to many unsafe abortions, but we had to drop our advocacy because USAID is a major funder in Malawi," he said. In Kenya and Ghana, where the governments have been steadily trying to relax rules on abortion to avoid the horrific consequences of unsafe abortions, the policy is also having a chilling effect, according to policy experts. Marie Stopes International, a London-based pro-choice group and service provider, says that the $60 million gap caused by the US freeze on its funding could result in more than two million unintended pregnancies globally. Biggest donor Mark Green, the Trump-appointed administrator of USAID, told CNN that the agency has been upfront with the impacts of the policy. "Our commitment is to report straight up on the numbers for those who have received funding and those who chose not to take funding because of the policy guidelines. And we remain far and away the largest donor of maternal and child health in the world," he said And USAID officials believe that it's important to look at the bigger picture. A USAID official said that the US government has invested more than $47 billion dollars in health in Africa over the past decade. And American-led initiatives to combat HIV and malaria have saved millions of lives on the continent. Green, who is widely respected in development circles, has to comply with President Trump's policy. But his vision for the agency's future mirrors another one of Trump's core demands. USAID is working through major reforms to focus on what officials there call "the journey to self-reliance." The ultimate goal is to help countries transition away from dependence on foreign aid. "What we are looking to do appeals to President Trump the businessman," said Green. CNN has reached out to the White House for comment. Lead or follow The Mexico City policy isn't Trump's only foray into foreign aid. The White House has repeatedly asked for significant funding cuts to USAID and the State Department in its proposed budget. But, so far, there has been bipartisan pushback from Congress -- which passes the budget -- to any major cuts in foreign assistance. "This kind of positioning from the White House affects our relationship with countries across the globe," said the Kaiser Family Foundation's Kates. "If the US takes an isolationist stance then we will no longer be seen as a leader on the international stage." Trump has also taken a much more transactional view of aid support. In his speech to the United Nations General Assembly last month he took it a step further. "Moving forward, we are only going to give foreign aid to those who respect us, and, frankly, are our friends," he said. Something the head of USAID has no problem with. "There is nothing wrong with insisting that foreign assistance always serves America's best interest," said Green. And, when it comes to family planning, other countries are already stepping into the breach. With heavy European financing, a group called the SheDecides movement was set up explicitly to counter the impact of the Mexico City policy worldwide and advocate for women and girls to make their own choices. The chairperson of its global program is Malawian activist Tikhala Itaye. Speaking from the capital Llinongwe, she had a message for the first lady. "As a woman herself, Melania would already understand these issues. She should be able to freely say what women want. No man should be able make policy that decides for us." TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) - Tupelo police are asking for help solving a recent auto burglary. The auto burglary happened on Monday, October 1 in the Joyner Avenue area. Police say a man used a rock to get inside the vehicle. Multiple items were taken including credit cards, police said. The photo above shows a vehicle the man drove away in. Police say it is possibly a Mazda 6. Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-773-8477. ISTANBUL, Turkey, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The former President of Afghanistan today delivered a critique on the United States track record on fighting terrorism in his country. Hamid Karzai told the TRT World Forum in Istanbul: Americas stated objective of defeating terrorism did not happen. It faltered. The consequences of that failure are tragic for the Afghan people. Massive human loss, 17 years on, every day we have people killed; just yesterday we had 26 people killed in Eastern Afghanistan in an election rally. In consequence, as well as the massive loss of life daily, we have the rise of terrorist and extremist groups. Now we have Al Qaeda, we have Daesh in Afghanistan which is turning out to be a menace for the region. The opening sessions of the TRT World Forum 2018, in Istanbul, also highlighted the impact of threats and upheavals, such as Brexit, the Greek financial crisis and the rise of populism as exemplified by the recent election in Italy, on the future of the European Union. Former Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Franco Frattini said, We see a huge gap between the narrative of Brussels that everything is OK and the reality in my country. He said that austerity measures have prevented investment and that issues regarding immigration have been depicted as isolationist, in turn, giving an explanation for the recent election results. Referring to the UK referendum, Former Turkish Minister of EU Affairs, Volkan Bozkr said, It was just one question, shall we be in or out? and nobody actually understood what they would lose, how much it would cost and the prospects for the UK after leaving the EU. The TRT World Forum 2018, recognised as one of the most significant political events of the the year, started today in Istanbul with the theme Envisioning Peace & Security in a Fragmented World. For more information about the Forum, visit http://researchcentre.trtworld.com/forum/forum-2018 For more information contact: SOUTHAVEN, Miss. (WTVA) - President Donald Trump was greeted by a room full of support from an expressive crowd at the Landers Center during the Southaven rally. He campaigned for Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R), who is running in a special November election. Weve got a lot of work to do in Washington, D.C. and this man is leading the charge because we have a Supreme Court justice to get confirmed, said Hyde-Smith. Her win is an advantage Republicans need in the Senate, where they are now holding a slim majority of 51-49. "I've been on the Trump train since June of 2015, and I just love Trump," said Bradford James, a Gore Springs resident. "I've missed other opportunities he's been in Mississippi to see him speak and I was not missing this one." The president continually spoke of his Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, who is being investigated over allegations of sexual misconduct. He challenged accuser Dr. Christine Blasey Ford's statements before the Senate Judiciary Committee. The president urged voters to show up at the polls. The midterm election is on November 6th. STARKVILLE, Miss. (AP) A county road manager in Mississippi is being suspended for two days amid complaints from workers, including that he told one female employee she would have to use "use the woods like the men" for her bathroom break. Oktibbeha County supervisors met in closed session Monday to discuss complaints against Fred Hal Baggett and then went back into an open meeting and voted to suspend him without pay Oct. 11 and 12, the Starkville Daily News reported. Doris Harris said in a complaint that as the only woman working on a road crew, she has been "denied the opportunity to leave the job site" when needing to use the restroom and was "told I have to use the woods like the men," according to the Commercial Dispatch . Another complaint, from road department truck driver Eric Clay, stems from a Friday conversation with Baggett. In a recording heard by a Commercial Dispatch reporter Monday, Clay confronted Baggett about a job given to another employee. During the conversation, Baggett questioned Clay's education and called Clay's work "mediocre." "I don't know you that well," Baggett said on the recording. "And the stuff I know about you is not that great." Asked about his suspension, Baggett told the Commercial Dispatch: "I'm a big boy. I can handle it." The two complaints were not the first against Baggett. A former road department employee, Justin Denson, filed a federal lawsuit in July saying Baggett made racially charged remarks against him, including saying Denson looked like a "black savage Viking" because Denson had dreadlocks. Both Denson and Baggett are African-American. Court records show that Baggett has denied making such remarks to Denson. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S., according to The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Just over 44,000 Americans will die by suicide each year. The organization 2-1-1 Big Bend says from July 1 of 2017 to June 30 of 2018, they received 45 percent more suicide related calls than the same period the previous year. An FSU professor will be giving a seminar speech Tuesday at the Tallahassee Senior Center to address the dangers and warning signs of suicide. Dr. Martin Swanbrow Becker says the best thing you can do is inform the public about the possible signs that someone maybe thinking about committing suicide. "It's a community effort to look out for each other," said Becker. "Take the chance and show people that you care by checking in and making sure we're O.K. as a community." The event begins at 6 p.m. and will go until 8 p.m. at the Tallahassee Senior Center. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (The News Service of Florida) - Opponents of Judge Brett Kavanaughs nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court visited Senator Marco Rubios office at the Florida Capitol Tuesday, asking the Republican lawmaker to vote against Kavanaughs confirmation. Members of several left-leaning groups spoke to Rubios Tallahassee staffers and delivered a letter detailing their opposition to Kavanaugh, who has been accused of sexually assaulting women while in high school and college. A full confirmation vote could happen as early as Friday, with Senators almost evenly split for or against Kavanaugh, who vehemently denied the accusations during a US Senate hearing last week. Dorothy Inman-Johnson with the Progressive Leadership Council of North Florida says her opposition goes beyond the allegations of sexual assault. A lifetime Supreme Court judge with the temperament that Kavanaugh demonstrated in those hearings last week is a danger, said Inman-Johnson. In a statement late last week, Senator Rubio said he will support Kavanaughs confirmation when a final vote is taken. Democratic Senator Bill Nelson, who is in a tight battle for reelection next month with Governor Rick Scott, has stated he will vote against the confirmation. Judge Kavanaugh was nominated by President Donald Trump in July to replace retiring Justice Anthony Kennedy on the nations highest court. MADISON COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - A Madison correctional officer is in stable condition after being stabbed multiple times by an inmate. On Monday, at about 11:00 p.m., an officer was assaulted by an inmate at Madison Correctional Institution. Inmate Ilisiah Williams stabbed the officer multiple times with an improvised weapon. Florida Department of Corrections said thanks to the swift response of the other staff, the inmate was subdued before the situation escalated any further. Medical staff examined the officer and noted severe injuries which required medical treatment. The incident is currently under investigation by the FDC Office of Inspector General. More information will be released as it becomes available. Williams was serving time for second degree murder and was sentenced to 32 years in a Florida State Prison. MARION COUNTY, FL (WKMG/CNN) - Deputies arrested two 18-year-olds after they allegedly assaulted four people in an unprovoked attack in the parking lot of a Florida gas station. The victims say they had just stopped at a Circle K gas station in Silver Springs, FL, on Sept. 22 when the suspects approached them, yelling. In surveillance video, released by the Marion County Sheriffs Office, victim Tersa Elghali is seen standing next to a red pick-up truck when she is attacked by 18-year-old Julia Napiontek, according to deputies. Elghalis 11-year-old daughter can then be seen getting out of the trucks passenger seat. Deputies say Napiontek also attacked the little girl, throwing her to the ground. Strangers attack family, including 11-year-old girl, outside FL gas station From inside the gas station, Elghalis boyfriend Jason Ellis could see his girlfriend and her daughter being attacked, he says. "When I saw an 11-year-old girl getting attacked Ellis said, shaking his head. I don't know what to do." Deputies say Ellis was physically assaulted by 18-year-old Brandon Clanton, as the victim was headed back toward the car. "Next thing I know, I'm turned around, I'm walking back toward the truck and I'm getting attacked," Ellis said. Later in the video, the 11-year-old can be seen frantically running through the parking lot while the two suspects get in their car and leave the scene. I grabbed her and hid behind a gas tank, yelling at people to call the police, Elghali said. Deputies identified Napiontek and Clanton from surveillance footage and arrested them, according to a Marion County Sheriffs Office post on Facebook. The victims told deputies they didnt previously know their attackers and that there was no motive for the confrontation. Ellis says the 11-year-old is now healing from her injuries. I dont think shell get over it. I mean, she will eventually start doing more things [but] shes scared to go out now and do things without somebody. That shouldnt be right, Ellis said. Napiontek is charged with battery and aggravated child abuse, while Clanton is charged with battery and simple assault on a law enforcement officer. Detectives say Clanton resisted during his arrest. Clanton is being held without bond because just 11 days prior to his arrest, he had been released on bond for a separate incident that occurred Aug. 23. During that incident, Clanton allegedly approached a 17-year-old he didnt know in a convenience store. Deputies say the 18-year-old violently struck the other teenager multiple times. The 17-year-old, who was trying to get his grandmother something to drink from the store, needed seven stitches on his face, according to the sheriffs department. Clanton was charged with aggravated child abuse in the August incident. Copyright 2018 WKMG, Marion County Sheriffs Office via CNN. All rights reserved. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Tallahassee Police are looking for the suspect or suspects that opened fire on a group of party goers near FAMU's campus. The shooting happened early Tuesday morning on Adams Street, sending one person to the hospital with non life-threatening injuries. Shots rang out on the Southside of Tallahassee around 1 a.m. Tuesday morning, police initially reporting there was an "incident," near the FAMU campus. Those who were at the scene however, say the "incident" was gunshots, adding one moment everything was fun and in the next, terrifying. People say hundreds were gathered at a block party on Adams Street when suddenly they heard gun shots. One person told me it sounded like an automatic weapon was firing when things turned into chaos and everyone started running in different directions. Roughly an hour later, FAMU Campus police sent out a series of alerts confirming something had happened near campus with information surrounding a possible suspect driving a yellow convertible Mustang. It wasn't until 7 a.m. Tuesday morning that Tallahassee Police confirmed that a victim had been shot and transported to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. "While they're on campus and off campus, their safety is our most concern," said Chief Terrence Calloway, the FAMU Chief of Police. "So we want them to walk in groups if they can, be aware of your surroundings at night, make sure that you have your phone available so you can dial 9-1-1." The Tallahassee Police Department is heading up the investigation and is currently following all leads. "We will also canvass the neighborhood, make sure anyone has camera in their business or homes," said Officer Damon Miller Jr. with the Tallahassee Police Department. "And also sometimes people actually witness the crime or incident and they're not on scene, so we just urge them to call 891-4200 or Big Bend Crime Stoppers." At this time, police say it's unclear whether any FAMU students were involved in the shooting. Tallahassee Police encourage anyone with information to call 850-891-4200. Person receives non-life-threatening gunshot wound near FAMU TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - The Tallahassee Police Department is asking for the public's help after a person was shot early Tuesday near the 1800 block of South Adams Street. Florida A&M University had issued alerts earlier Tuesday indicating that the incident occurred at a party at 1815 S. Adams Street. TPD says the person received non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a local hospital. An alert from FAMU at 2:23 a.m. Monday said the suspect may be driving a yellow convertible Mustang. TPD asks that people with information about the case should call them at (850) 891 - 4200 or Crime Stoppers at (850) 574 - TIPS. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - The Tallahassee Fire Department is investigating a mobile home that caught fire on Tallahassee's west side that caused $50,000 in damages. On Wednesday, at about 10:00 a.m. the Tallahassee Fire Department was notified of a home fire on Tallahassee's west side. Multiple fire crews responded to a mobile home on Bareback Drive off of State Road 20, with heavy fire and smoke coming from the home. TFD said firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire while primary and secondary searches were completed. Crews on scene found that everyone in the home made it out safely. No injuries were reported and the Red Cross was called for temporary assistance to the residents of the home. TFD said the cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Estimated damages from the fire is $50,000. TFD was helped on scene by Leon County EMS, the Leon County Sheriff's Office, Red Cross, and Talquin Electric. VICTORIA, British Columbia, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the union representing 1200 scientists and engineers working for the BC public service started negotiating a new collective agreement. After a decade and a half of cutting professionals and decimating science-based decision making in the provincial government, were taking the issue of scientific integrity to the bargaining table, said Scott McCannell, Executive Director and Chief Negotiator of the Professional Employees Association (PEA). We want to put language in the contract that recognizes the value of science in public policy decision making. Since 2001, the number of science officers working for the BC public service was reduced by 25 per cent. The union is seeking an increase in these numbers to restore capacity. In 2017, Evidence for Democracy (E4D) released a report, Oversight at Risk, highlighting the state of science in the BC public service. The report found that the main challenge for provincial scientific integrity in BC is cutbacks to capacity within the public service, which impedes the governments ability to fulfill their responsibility for regulatory oversight. The recommendations from the report included increasing public service research capacity. The federal government enshrined science integrity in collective agreements with federal government scientists. Its time for the provincial governments to make the same commitment, said Kathleen Walsh, E4D Director of Policy. In June, the BC government released the Professional Reliance Review. The professional reliance model was adopted by the former BC government in the context of an extensive plan to reduce red tape by eliminating environmental and health protection laws. Among other things, this review emphasized the need to identify opportunities to improve ministry staffing levels and resources to enhance government oversight. The government is being presented with a golden opportunity to make a strong commitment towards addressing the broken professional reliance system, said Bob Peart, Chair of the Professional Reliance Working Group of Concerned Citizens. A well-staffed professional public service means the government can once again reclaim a leadership role in resource and environmental stewardship. Were looking forward to working with this government to restore scientific capacity in the public service, said McCannell. This will have a direct impact on our members and their ability to provide sustainable, quality public services to the people of BC. The PEA is a labour union that represents over 1200 scientists and engineers working for the BC public service including engineers, foresters, geoscientists, agrologists and more. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-02 23:34:11|Editor: yan Video Player Close BERLIN, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- The federal government of Germany has finalized the concept for a new migration law for skilled workers, German Social Democrat (SPD) leader Andrea Nahles announced on Tuesday. Nahles said that the "cornerstones for skilled worker immigration from third countries (non- European Union countries, note)" would be presented to the cabinet on Tuesday after an agreement on the matter was reached during lengthy cabinet consultations. According to the German press agency (dpa), the legislation contains a compromise on the option of a so-called "change of lanes" between migrants' applications for humanitarian stay and regular work permits which has been debated within the "grand coalition" for several weeks. "We will maintain the principle of separating asylum and economic migration," dpa cited a draft policy paper it has obtained as saying. At the same time, however, the document emphasized that the government would establish "clear criteria for a reliable status of tolerated (individuals) who derive their subsistence from gainful employment and are well integrated." The news comes shortly after interior minister and Christian Social Union (CSU) leader Horst Seehofer announced on Monday that he had reached an agreement with labor minister Hubertus Heil (SPD) on the "foundation" for a related legislative overhaul. The resulting migration policy targeted by the "grand coalition" would enable certain types of asylum seekers to apply for a regular work visa after having failed to secure residency on humanitarian grounds. "When (someone) cannot be deported due to compelling reasons, namely reasons which are not to do with the asylum seeker as a person, then people say let them work before they sit around," Seehofer said. He hereby referred to foreigners who are legally duty-bound to leave Germany but are tolerated by authorities there due to mitigating circumstances, for example the use of torture in their country of origin. Labor minister Heil has argued that it is in Germany's interest to allow asylum seekers to stay who are well integrated into the local economy and society but have not received humanitarian stay. "We must not shoot ourselves in the foot out of ideological reasons by sending the wrong individuals back home", Heil told the press, echoing concerns voiced earlier by Daniel Guenther (CDU), governor of Schleswig-Holstein. The agreement unveiled on Tuesday largely reflects the legislative focus of Seehofer's initial proposals. "Skilled workers from abroad already make an important contribution to the competitiveness of the German economy today," the draft policy paper obtained by dpa read. At the same time, German Chancellor Angela Merkel's (CDU) fourth governing cabinet lamented that Germany needed to become more successful in "attracting qualified workers from third countries." Criteria which were named to determine whether residence in Germany will be granted to these skilled workers included "qualification, age, language skills, evidence of a concrete job offer and the financial ability to maintain a livelihood." Additionally, the government reserves itself the right to temporarily bar certain types of professions from obtaining a work visa in order to manage immigration in line with the demands of domestic companies. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 02:40:49|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close CHICAGO, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Northwestern University (NU) professor Chad A. Mirkin has received the Friendship Award, China's highest recognition for "foreign experts who have made outstanding contributions to the nation," in Beijing, according to a report published on the university's website Monday. "As academic science is a form of diplomacy that brings people together from all different parts of the world to pursue knowledge in pre-competitive areas, it is a tremendous honor to receive this recognition from China," Mirkin said. Earlier this year, Mirkin received the Nano Research Award, along with Chinese Academy of Sciences Professor Lei Jiang, at the Sino-US Nano Forum in Chengdu, China, according to the report. Mirkin, a professor of Chemistry in the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences and the director of the International Institute for Nanotechnologyat Northwestern, is most known for his discovery and development of spherical nucleic acids, and the many medical diagnostic, therapeutic and materials applications that have derived from them. He is the author of more than 700 manuscripts and more than 1,000 patent applications worldwide. For decades, he has developed nanotechnology solutions for a broad range of applications with his work leading to more than 2,000 commercial products used globally, the report said. Mirkin has trained more than 60 Chinese students at Northwestern, including graduate students, doctoral candidates, postdoctoral students and fellows. He has given hundreds of seminars at universities and professional meetings in China, and holds 11 Chinese patents, according to the report. NU President Morton Schapiro congratulated Mirkin on receiving this tremendous honor and lauded him for his remarkable achievements and his unwavering commitment to global, collaborative scientific discovery. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 03:30:26|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close by Eric J. Lyman ROME, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Italy's hardline stance against migrant arrivals in the country is having a widening effect, increasing the number of migrant deaths at sea according to one report, and stoking more visible opposition at home. In the latest development, an advocacy group said it will on Wednesday deliver 10,000 postcards in support of a more open immigration policy to the office of Matteo Salvini, the Italian minister of the interior and the main architect behind the strict policies blocking asylum seekers. In June, Salvini boasted that the policies he was pushing for meant that migrants on rescue boats would only ever "see Italy on a postcard." That prompted campaign organizers to travel around Italy collecting messages on the back of specially designed postcards for Wednesday's delivery. The postcard initiative is one example of an increasingly vocal level domestic protests against migration policies that block rescue ships from entering Italian ports and reducing spending and opportunities for migrants already in the country. According to Matteo Villa, a research fellow specializing in migration issues with the Italian Institute for International Political Studies, a think tank, a proposed law could reduce one category refugees can fit into to stay legally in the country, leaving two. The removed category would mean it will no longer be possible for arrivals to be granted asylum for humanitarian reasons except in rare instances. Of the 39 percent of the refugee requests Italy accepted in the first three months of this year, more than half came under humanitarian status. "It just means more people will stay in Italy illegally, driving them into the marginal, illegal economy," Villa told Xinhua. "These tough policies are already isolating Italy, pushing it further from the European Union." Villa noted that nearly two in three Italians say they do not support the European Union, a dramatic increase compared to 2012, when a wave of migrants first started to arrive in Italy. Nearly 650,000 migrants have arrived in Italy since 2014, though the number has dropped dramatically since mid-2017, and even more so since June, when the new populist government under Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte came to power. "Italy has been dealing with the arrival of migrants longer than the rest of Europe and the issue is what has led to the rise of populism we have seen," he said. As of Sept. 30 this year, around 82,000 refugees have arrived in Europe from Africa and the Middle East, according to figures from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Around a fourth of that number have landed in Italy, fewer than in Spain or Greece. According to the IOM, there have been nearly 60,000 combined arrivals in those two countries so far this year, with at least 481 perishing en route -- a mortality rate of less than 0.01 percent. That compares to around 21,000 arrivals in Italy and 1,260 deaths, or a mortality rate of nearly 17 percent. The rate was nearly 20 percent in September, when just 964 migrants arrived in Italy, the first month with fewer than 1,000 in at least five years. "The passage to Italy is much more treacherous than the shorter distance to get to Spain or Greece," Flavio Di Giacomo, from the Switzerland-based IOM. "Add to that a lack of rescue boats at sea because of Italy's policies and there will be tragic results. The situation in Africa is so horrible that no matter what, many people are still going to take the risks." The IOM is not the only major voice critical of Italy's policies. Other European leaders have called on Italy to relax its policies, while the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has repeatedly called for the creation of "predictable arrangements" in addressing those rescued at sea. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 03:30:26|Editor: yan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Two pieces of mail tested positive for ricin by the Pentagon mail facility were addressed to Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson, the Defense News reported Tuesday. The FBI, which is leading the investigation, is expected to conduct a second test to confirm the initial finding on Tuesday. "On Monday, the Pentagon Force Protection Agency detected a suspicious substance during mail screening at the Pentagon's remote screening facility," Pentagon spokesman Col. Robert Manning said in a statement Tuesday afternoon. "All USPS mail received at the Pentagon mail screening facility yesterday is currently under quarantine and poses no threat to Pentagon personnel," Manning said. The substance "is suspected to be ricin," said Pentagon spokesman Chris Sherwood. Pentagon's mail facility is located in a separate building on the grounds of the Pentagon, instead of within the Pentagon building itself. Ricin, a poison found in castor beans, can be used in powder, pellet, mist or acid form. If ingested, it causes nausea, vomiting, internal bleeding of the stomach and intestines and can be deadly. Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) meets with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko in Davos, Switzerland, Jan. 17, 2017. (Xinhua/Ding Lin) KIEV, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman said that he sees a growing potential for his country's partnership with China, the Ukrainian government press service said Tuesday. Groysman made the remarks during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Ukraine Du Wei. In the meeting, Groysman congratulated the Chinese people on the 69th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, saying the areas of mutual interests between China and Ukraine are expanding. The two countries enjoy a potential to increase their annual trade to 10 billion U.S. dollars and push forward bilateral cooperation in agriculture, construction, infrastructure, energy and other sectors, the prime minister said. Groysman wished China a success in holding the first China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai next month, which will be attended by a delegation from Ukraine. According to Ukrainian statistics, China was Ukraine's top trading partner in the Asia-Pacific region and the second-largest trading partner in the world in 2017, with bilateral trade turnover amounting to 7.7 billion dollars. Russian and Kyrgyz troops take part in the Issyk-Kul Antiterror 2018 military drills in the Edelweiss training area in Balykchi, some 200 km from Bishkek, on September 26, 2018. (AFP PHOTO) MOSCOW, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- The Selenga 2018 Russian-Mongolian military drills kicked off Tuesday in the eastern Siberian Republic of Buryatia, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement. The annual drills involve over 1,000 troops, including 500 servicemen from Mongolia, and up to 200 pieces of military equipment, namely infantry combat vehicles, armored personnel carriers, tanks, multiple rocket launchers and mortars, it said. During the active phase of the exercise, the troops of the two countries will simulate jointly fighting terrorists in coordination with a tactical airborne assault force. The drills will last till Oct. 12. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas poses with brides and grooms during a mass wedding in Ramallah, in the occupied West Bank August 18, 2018. (Reuters photo) GAZA, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- A total of 360 brides and grooms were overwhelmed with joy on Tuesday during a mass wedding ceremony, sponsored by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. The mass wedding was held at one of the local resorts on the seaside of Gaza. A large hall was ornamented with Palestinian flags and big posters of President Abbas and late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat were hung on the walls. Izzat Shaqoura, a 27-year-old broom, expressed his happiness when he and other grooms stood on a stage waving Palestinian flags, while their brides carried white flowers and wore white traditional Palestinian dresses. "I'm very happy to celebrate marriage together with young men like me, and we all share hope for life and establishing happy families," said Shaqoura. He told Xinhua that the ceremony is a joy that Gaza needs in light of the hardships of the living conditions. His bride, Doha Joma'a, 24, told Xinhua that "the economic hardships in the Gaza Strip deprive so many youths from getting married. This mass wedding party is a mean of support that makes joy defeat sadness." (R-L) Senior Fatah leader Azzam Al-Ahmed, Head of Palestinian Intelligence Majed Faraj, Palestinian Minister of Civil Affairs Hussein Al-Sheikh, Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Senior Fatah official Mahmoud Al-Aloul, and Palestinian President aide Tayeb Abdel Rahim attend a mass wedding in Ramallah, in the occupied West Bank August 18, 2018. (Reuters photo) Hundreds of guests, including relatives and friends of the couples as well as notables and officials, were invited to the wedding. During the ceremony, traditional Palestinian music was played. Ahmad Helles, member of the Central Committee of Abbas' Fatah Party, said in a speech on behalf of Abbas at the opening that "I hope this wedding will be an introduction for ending the internal Palestinian division." The Gaza Strip has been ruled by Islamic Hamas movement since its violent takeover of the coastal enclave in the summer of 2007. Since then, Israel has been imposing a tight blockade on the territory. Helles said that choosing the couples was made in accordance with certain terms, which included children of Palestinians were killed or wounded during the conflict with Israel. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 07:30:27|Editor: Chengcheng Video Player Close Tourists visit the Palace Museum in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 2, 2018. Scenic spots across the country witnessed a peak of tourists on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Chen Xiaogen) Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 08:29:28|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close KIEV, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman said that he sees a growing potential for his country's partnership with China, the Ukrainian government press service said Tuesday. Groysman made the remarks during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Ukraine Du Wei. In the meeting, Groysman congratulated the Chinese people on the 69th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, saying the areas of mutual interests between China and Ukraine are expanding. The two countries enjoy a potential to increase their annual trade to 10 billion U.S. dollars and push forward bilateral cooperation in agriculture, construction, infrastructure, energy and other sectors, the prime minister said. Groysman wished China a success in holding the first China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai next month, which will be attended by a delegation from Ukraine. According to Ukrainian statistics, China was Ukraine's top trading partner in the Asia-Pacific region and the second-largest trading partner in the world in 2017, with bilateral trade turnover amounting to 7.7 billion dollars. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 08:31:24|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close DAMASCUS, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Syria's Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem said Tuesday that the Syrian sky will be protected by the Russian S-300 air defense system which has just been deployed. Speaking in an interview with the pan-Arab al-Mayadeen TV Tuesday, al-Moallem hailed the deployment of the S-300 long-range surface-to-air missile system in Syria for helping bolster Syria's air defense against future Israeli airstrikes. On Tuesday, Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu told President Vladimir Putin that the S-300 system and dozens of additional hardware pieces have been delivered to Syria to boost the security of Russian personnel there. The Russian move comes against the backdrop of the downing of a Russian surveillance plane by Syria air force's friendly fire last month during an Israeli air attack on Syrian military positions in Syria's Latakia province. Russia squarely blamed the incident, which killed all 15 Russian aircrew aboard the plane, on Israel, which it said used the Russian plane as cover during the air raid. Al-Moallem said that the deployment of the more advanced S-400 air defense system is the ambition of Syria. He said the aim of the repeated Israeli attacks on Syrian military bases are aimed at eclipsing the victories of the Syrian army, which has recaptured over 90 percent of Syrian territories. He said the situation is getting better in terms of protecting the Syrian airspace from the Israeli attacks, noting that the Russia-Syria relationship is at its best. Meanwhile, al-Moallem said that the liberation of Idlib province in northwestern Syria, as well as the rebel-held areas in the countryside of Aleppo province and Hama province, will be included in the last chapter of fighting terrorism in Syria. A recent Turkey-Russia agreement on building a demilitarized zone has averted a planned full offensive by the Syrian army to liberate Idlib, the last major rebel stronghold in Syria. The buffer zone will be created on Oct.15 and the rebels will have to withdraw from these areas as well as their heavy weaponry. Some of the rebel groups, including the al-Qaida-linked ones, have been outright about their rejection of the deal. But al-Moallem said Turkey, which has a sway over the rebel groups in Idlib, will likely live to its pledges in terms of pushing the rebels out of the demilitarized zone. He said that the first step of liberating Idlib is for the rebels to hand over their heavy and medium weapons by December, noting that the local rebels who are originally from Idlib will remain in Idlib after a reconciliation process with the government. As for the rebels from outside Idlib, al-Moallem said they should return to their cities, adding that foreign fighters in Idlib will have to return to their original countries en route Turkey. The top Syrian diplomat also said the U.S. military presence in the al-Tanf base in southern Syria is "illegitimate." He noted that recent Russia-U.S. talks have been focusing on dismantling the U.S. base in al-Tanf, saying that there is no need for a U.S. military base in southern Syria after the Syrian army liberated those areas from the Islamic State (IS) militants. He also charged that the U.S. wasn't really fighting terrorism in Syria, adding that only the Syrian army and its allies are the ones liberating areas from IS in southern Syria. DALLAS, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In support of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, The Mary Kay Foundation announced today it is awarding $3 million in grants to 150 domestic violence shelters across the country, including Puerto Rico and Guam. This years grant contribution brings The Foundations total investment in its shelter grant program to $50 million. The Mary Kay Foundation was established in 1996 with the overarching purpose of supporting issues impacting women. In 2000, The Foundation expanded to include ending domestic violence as part of its mission. The Foundation is committed to funding the life-saving work of womens shelters and the annual shelter grant program has helped finance critical needs including emergency shelter, transitional housing, counseling and legal aid. All of these resources support women and children as they seek refuge and relief on their journey to an abuse-free life. This year, more than 1,200 organizations applied for the Mary Kay Foundation shelter grants. At Mary Kay, we believe in helping women improve their circumstances and live their best lives. One in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime and it is our responsibility to support the womens shelters that aid these survivors, said President of The Mary Kay Foundation Board of Directors Michael Lunceford. At the heart of the Foundations work is the shelter grant program which is actively supported by our independent sales force. Were proud that our commitment makes such a powerful impact in local communities and in the lives of domestic violence survivors across the country. According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, more than 72,000 adult and child victims receive domestic violence services across the United States in just one day. Unfortunately, in the same period, more than 11,000 requests for services are unmet due to a lack of resources. Applications for the 2019 shelter grant program will be available in January 2019. Please visit marykayfoundation.org for more information. To view the complete list of 2018 shelter grant recipients, click here. About The Mary Kay Foundation The Mary Kay Foundation was created in 1996 and its two-fold mission includes funding womens cancer research and ending domestic violence. Over the course of more than two decades, The Mary Kay Foundation has awarded more than $78 million to womens shelters and domestic violence service providers, as well as cancer research programs and related causes throughout the United States. To learn more about The Mary Kay Foundation and its mission, visit marykayfoundation.org or call 1-877-MKCARES (652-2737). Attachment Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 08:32:26|Editor: Liu Video Player Close By sportswriters Spencer Musick and Michael Butterworth BEIJING, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Round two at the ongoing China Open here on Tuesday saw all top-10 players in action advancing and mixed results for local players. Chinese wildcard Wang Qiang scored a double-bagel 6-0, 6-0 victory over an injured world No. 12 Jelena Ostapenko to advance to the third round. Wang, who withdrew from the just-concluded Wuhan Open with an injury herself, won a stellar 83 percent of her first service points, converted six of her seven break points and fired three aces on the way to the victory. Her Latvian opponent had a very rough time on court, coughing up 34 unforced errors and committing 10 double faults. Wang broke every single one of her service games and never faced break point herself. Wang will face the winner of tomorrow's match between world No. 7 Karolina Pliskova and Belarussian player Aliaksandra Sasnovich in the round of 16. Not all local favorites had such an easy time today. Chinese wildcard Zheng Saisai crashed out, going down 6-1, 6-3 to no. 9 seed Sloane Stephens of the United States. Clearly eager to bounce back from an early exit at last week's Wuhan Open, Stephens raced into a 2-0 lead out of the gate. Though Zheng logged a few nice baseline winners, the Shaanxi native had several unforced errors, twice volleying into the net from close range when it seemed easier to hit a winner. Stephens showed greater consistency and the American never really looked threatened as she closed out the match in one hour 35 minutes. Stephens now faces a third-round match-up against Dominika Cibulkova of Slovakia, after she bested Australia's Daria Gavrilova in straight sets, 6-3, 6-3. World No. 3 Angelique Kerber had a fight on her hands in her second-round engagement, twice rebounding from a break behind, but managing to take out Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro in straight sets: 7-6 (4), 6-1. The opening set saw the two aggressive players holding their own services games, and it was the Spaniard who broke first to go up two sets. But Kerber answered with a break of her own, and the two traded breaks with Navarro serving for the set at 5-3, only to be broken by a resilient Kerber who clawed her way to deuce. Kerber broke again to level things out at 5-all, and controlled the proceedings from there despite facing a tiebreak to close out the first set. Kerber faces the winner of tomorrow's round of 32 match between Timea Babos and China's Zhang Shuai. World No. 8 and reigning US Open Champion Naomi Osaka of Japan had an easy 6-1, 6-0 win over Danielle Collins of the United States. Osaka was broken out of the gate by her opponent but quickly got into her rhythm, comfortably controlling the match with a solid returning effort from the baseline. Despite three double faults, Osaka fired four aces and won a stellar 89 percent of her first service points. It was a fit way for Osaka to celebrate having just qualified for the WTA finals this year in Singapore, an announcement the association made earlier today. Other action saw Carolina Garcia, the world No. 4 and the defending champion here in Beijing, needing a tiebreak but taking out Polona Hercog in straight sets: 7-6 (2), 6-3. Wuhan Open runner-up Anett Kontaveit rebounded from a set down to take out Laura Siegemund: 2-6, 6-3, 6-2. Finally, the night session saw a tough-as-nails Arnya Sabalenka, fresh off snatching the trophy at the Wuhan Open, continue her fantastic run of form with a 7-5, 6-4 win over world No. 14 Gabrine Muguruza. Turning over to the men's side, no. 3 seed Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria triumphed over lucky loser Tennys Sandgren 7-5, 6-3. Both players were strong on serve, with Sandgren notably serving eight aces during the course of the match. Dimitrov managed to break Sandgren in the decisive final game to take the first set. The 2017 China Open semifinalist then raced into a 3-0 lead at the start of the second set and thereafter held the American at arm's length to see out the match in one hour 24 minutes. Dimitrov's third round opponent this year will be Serbian qualifier Dusan Lajovic, who secured safe passage after beating Canada's Vacek Pospisil 2-6, 6-4, 6-4. The next match saw No. 1 seed Juan Martin del Potro defeat Spain's Albert Ramos 7-5, 6-2. Del Potro trailed 2-1 in the first set, but rebounded to take the next three games to pull ahead 4-2 using that clearance to seal the first set. From then on, momentum seemed to be with the Argentinian, who hit ten aces during the course of the match, ultimately wrapping proceedings up in one hour 30 minutes. It was another nail-biter of a match between Spain's Fernando Verdasco and Gael Monfils of France. The Spaniard needed two tiebreaks to take the match 2-6, 7-6 (3), 7-6 (5) in two hours, 26 minutes. Verdasco goes on to take on Georgian contender Nikoloz Basilashvili, who also needed three sets to take out No. 6 American Jack Sock 7-6 (6), 5-7, 6-2. Other action saw Italian qualifier Matteo Berrettini down Argentina's Leonardo Mayer in straight sets: 6-3, 6-2. Berrettini faces No. 5 seed Kyle Edmund of Britain, who moved into the third round in yesterday's action. Finally, the last match of the night saw No. 2 seed Alexander Zverev defeat Roberto Bautista Agut in straight sets: 6-4, 6-4. Some round-of-32 action continues tomorrow, with other matches in the third round also on tap. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 09:09:20|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CANBERRA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Australian government has launched an inquiry to crack down on banks' hidden foreign exchange fees worth up to 2 billion Australian dollars (1.4 billion U.S. dollars) every year. The inquiry, launched by Treasurer Josh Frydenberg on Tuesday evening, will investigate whether the banks are gouging customers via foreign currency conversion fees on overseas debt and credit card fees, which are worth one billion Australian dollars (718 million U.S. dollars) to the industry every year. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) will also investigate hidden foreign exchange "mark ups" charged by banks on funds transferred to foreign bank accounts, which are believed to be worth an additional one billion Australian dollars (718 million U.S. dollars). "The 10.5 million Australians who travel abroad every year and the individuals and businesses who send money internationally every day deserve a better deal," Frydenberg said in a statement. "Given how widely foreign currency conversion services are used by consumers and businesses, reform in this area could make a real difference and put more money in the pockets of Australians. "A customer of an Australian bank who travels overseas and spends 5,000 Australian dollars (3,594 U.S. dollars) on their credit card can expect to incur 140 Australian dollars (100.6 U.S. dollars) in foreign exchange transaction fees." Frydenberg said that Australians were spending 30 percent more on the transaction fees than U.S. travellers. Australians spent 32 billion Australian dollars (23 billion U.S. dollars) in foreign currencies on credit and debit cards in the 12 months to July 2018. At the typical 3 percent charge levied on purchases in foreign currencies, Australian banks made 960 million Australian dollars (690 million U.S. dollars) off those transactions. The ACCC will deliver its report in May 2019. | 2018-10-03 09:46:59|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday condemned the series of lethal attacks in Afghanistan in the run-up to the October parliamentary elections, said his spokesman. Guterres extended his deepest sympathies to the families of those who killed, and wished a speedy recovery to those injured, said Farhan Haq, UN deputy spokesman, in a statement. "The deliberate targeting of civilians is a violation of international humanitarian law," it said, urging all parties to creat a safe environment for a peaceful and orderly electoral process. The latest attack -- a suicide bombing at a campaign rally -- took place Tuesday in Nangarhar Province. The bombing killed more than a dozen people. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 09:46:18|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MONTEVIDEO, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- The Southern Common Market (Mercosur) and European Union (EU) need to compromise if they want to reach a trade agreement, Uruguayan Foreign Affairs Minister Rodolfo Nin Novoa said on Tuesday. "In a trade negotiation, you have to give and receive. In no negotiation do you just receive and give nothing," Nin said in an interview with state-run Uruguayan radio network RNU. The talks have dragged on for decades, with the two blocs initially starting negotiations in the 1990s. Nin said he was optimistic a deal could be reached as Mercosur members Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay are disposed to making a deal. "The disposition of the (Mercosur) presidents is to reach an agreement," he said, however "the window of opportunity" will close by "the end of the year." On Sept. 25, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly sessions in New York, Mercosur leaders agreed on the need to reach a trade accord with the European bloc. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 09:53:41|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close KATHMANDU, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Nepali President Bidya Devi Bhandari has sent a message of condolence to Indonesian President Joko Widodo on the loss of lives in last week's devastating earthquakes and tsunami, the ministry of foreign affairs said Tuesday. In her message, Bhandari has expressed deepest condolences to the Indonesian president, and the people of Indonesia who have been coping valiantly with the tragic disasters, the ministry said in a press statement. More than 60,000 people had been displaced after powerful quakes and a tsunami struck Indonesia's Central Sulawesi province on Friday, according to the spokesperson for the country's national disaster management agency, Sutopo Purwo Nugroho. The catastrophes have so far killed 1,249 people in the province and the number is expected to rise, the spokesperson said on Tuesday. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 10:05:40|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Chinese actress Fan Bingbing has been ordered to pay taxes and fines worth hundreds of millions of yuan over tax evasion, the country's taxation authorities said Wednesday after an investigation. A car drives near the Yass River, one of the worst-hit region by drought in Australia, Aug. 11, 2018. (Xinhua/Pan Xiangyue) CANBERRA, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Australia has experienced its driest September on record, extending the nation's drought. Blair Trewin, a senior climatologist at the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), confirmed that the nation received less than a third of the average September rainfall and that the month was the second-driest single month on record behind only April, 1902. "Below average rainfall covered almost the entire country," Trewin told Fairfax Media on Monday night. The poor September means that Australia is on-track to record its third-driest calendar year on record behind 1902 and 1965. It came as much of the nation was desperate for rain to break the worst drought in five decades. Melbourne didn't have a single day with more than five millimeters of rain in September, the second time it has happened since 1855. In New South Wales (NSW), September brought less than half the normal rainfall. Trewin said that the Murray-Darling Basin, Australia's food bowl, was on track to have its driest calendar year since 1902. "The signal in the outlook (from October to December) that's really strong is warmth," Trewin said. Daytime temperatures in September were 1.41 degrees Celsius above the average between 1961 and 1990. Trewin said that 2018 was likely to be among top 10 years for average temperature. Bushfire season has begun early across much of Australia as a result of a warm, dry winter. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 11:07:55|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MEXICO CITY, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Hurricane Rosa has reduced to a tropical depression west of Mexico's Baja California peninsula but is still generating dangerous weather, said the National Meteorological Service (SMN) on Tuesday. The national weather forecaster published a report at 4 a.m. local time (0900 GMT) and stated that Rosa was 55 km northwest of Ensenada, a port city on the Pacific coast of Baja California peninsula. Rosa is presenting wind speeds of 55 km per hour, gusts of 75 km per hour and moving northeast at around 17 km per hour. The SMN reported intense storms in Ensenada and Mexicali, the capital city of the state of Baja California. At least seven regions in the state of Sonora, on the east of Baja California, will also be hit by storms. At Baja California Sur, the southern end of the Baja California peninsula, storms will be stronger. The report predicted waves of two to five meters high on the west of the Baja California peninsula in the Pacific, and on the west of the Sonoran coast in the Gulf of California. Authorities have already declared an emergency in at least six regions of Baja California, involving some 40,000 inhabitants. Schools were suspended across Mexicali, south Ensenada and the San Felipe Valley on Tuesday. According to El Universal, a Mexican daily, one man was killed in Sonora after being swept away by the swollen Las Granjas river. Rosa formed on Sept. 25 around 660 km southwest of Manzanillo, a Pacific Ocean port city in the western state of Colima, and reached a Category 4 hurricane level before abating. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 11:09:58|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CANBERRA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- One in five Australian children are victims of cyber bullying, the nation's eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant has revealed. Inman Grant addressed the National Press Club on Wednesday, calling for cyber bullying to be addressed in the national school curriculum, saying that online safety had become "one of the primary parenting challenges of our time." The Office of the eSafety Commissioner studied complaints of online abuse dating back to 2015, finding that one in four reports included "direct threats of violence or harm" targeted at a child. "The average age of victims is 14; girls are bullied online more than boys; and almost all of the online abuse is peer to peer and has a nexus to social conflict within the school gates," Inman Grant told the press club. "Our experience shows that complaints are becoming much more complex, urgent, and serious." Cyber bullying was thrust into the national conscience earlier this year when 14-year-old girl Dolly Everett from the Northern Territory took her own life after being bullied online. Inman Grant said there was "no quick fix" for the problem but schools had a key role to play. "To help achieve this societal change, we need to reinforce key values with children in the home whilst integrating similar principles into the curriculum," she said. "How can we really be preparing our children for the workforce of the future if we are not teaching them the skills and behaviours they will need to survive in this brave new online world?" A survey conducted by Inman Grant's office revealed that 96 percent of parents needed "additional online safety information to help them manage the online risks their children are exposed to." "Their concerns range from protecting their child's online privacy to knowing what signs and symptoms to look for in determining whether their child has experienced some form of online abuse," she said. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 11:28:09|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close TOKYO, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks lost ground Wednesday morning, as investors opted to secure profits following the Nikkei index's near 27-year closing highs recently, with the yen's rise weighing on exporters. The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average inched down 13.41 points, or 0.06 percent, from Tuesday to 24,257.21. The broader Topix index of all First Section issues on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, meanwhile, shed 3.09 points, or 0.17 percent, at 1,820.94. Transportation equipment, information and communication, and bank-oriented issues led those that declined the most by the morning break. New York, New York, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (New York, NY) Dress for Success Worldwide , an international not-for-profit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence, today announced luxury clothing brand Peruvian Connection as its latest corporate sponsor. The announcement came during the 12th annual Women Who Inspire 2018 Breakfast, delighting all in attendance. Sharing the news of Peruvian Connections partnership was the perfect punctuation to the inspirational event, said Joi Gordon, Chief Executive Officer of Dress for Success. Hundreds of women came together to empower each other, honor those paving the way and evoke positive change in the workplace. Peruvian Connections commitment to Dress for Success amplifies their support and the support of all those who stand behind our mission, enabling us to reach even more women. Dress for Success and Peruvian Connection will launch the partnership with a week-long initiative of giving back. From November 4th through November 10th, Peruvian Connection will donate 15% of all purchase proceeds made by Dress for Success supporters. The initiative will be available shopping online and in retail locations. Peruvian Connection will also support Dress for Success on Giving Tuesday, taking place on Tuesday November 27th, 2018. Two of Peruvian Connections exquisitely constructed alpaca and wool coats will be designated as a power pieces for the organizations Giving Tuesday campaign. On Giving Tuesday, 20% of sales from those two items will benefit Dress for Success. Peruvian Connection is a woman-owned company, founded in 1976 by Annie Hurlbut and her mother, Biddy. Hurlbut knows first-hand how difficult it is for women to achieve success in their career and is honored to partner with an organization dedicated to providing the resources they need. Our inventive designs and sophisticated silhouettes allow women around the world to find confidence through the art of fashion, said Annie Hurlbut, Founder of Peruvian Connection. We are elated to put our passion for self-expression behind a cause that empowers so many women to present the best version of themselves. Dress for Success Worldwide Success Ambassador, Anita, shared her inspirational story of overcoming adversity during the Women Who Inspire Breakfast. Her journey to financial independence is like so many other women who made the most of the resources available at Dress for Success, ensuring a better future for themselves and their families. These journeys are what motivate Peruvian Connection to team up with Dress for Success. About Dress for Success Dress for Success is an international not-for-profit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Since starting operations in 1997, Dress for Success has expanded to more than 160 cities in 30 countries. To date, Dress for Success has helped over 1,000,000 women work towards self-sufficiency. Visit www.dressforsuccess.org to learn more. About Peruvian Connection Peruvian Connection was founded in 1976 by Annie Hurlbut and her mother, Biddy. An anthropologist by trade, Annie was fascinated by the extraordinary hand woven pieces she found in the markets while studying in Peru. After gifting her mother a luxurious Peruvian alpaca sweater coat trimmed with fur, friends and family wanted to purchase Peruvian sweaters as well. They started importing a few sweaters, then created a catalog and more than 40 years later Peruvian Connections collections are available in the brands retail stores, online and by catalog. Today, each piece is created by an extraordinary group of designers, then made by artisans in Peru from Andean luxury fibers, including the finest alpaca and pima cotton. Peruvian Connection releases five internationally renowned collections each year. For more information please visit PeruvianConnection.com . Follow us at facebook.com/peruvianconnection1976/ and on Instagram @peruvianconnection . Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 11:50:00|Editor: Chengcheng Video Player Close JAKARTA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Mount Soputan in Indonesia's North Sulawesi province spewed a column of ash up to 4 km into the sky on Wednesday, a disaster agency official said. The volcanic ash headed westward and northwestward of the crater, spokesman of national disaster management agency Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said. Rain of ashes is projected to fall in the northwest of the crater, and local disaster agency officials had distributed masks to the folks, the spokesman noted. An exclusion zone has been declared 4 km from the crater and extended to 6.5 km for the areas situated in the southwest of the crater by the country's volcanology agency, Sutopo said. Residents living near rivers whose upstream are around the flank of the volcano are warned to exercise caution, particularly during rain, for the risk of fast-moving flows of cool lava, the spokesman told Xinhua in a text message. North Sulawesi province is located next to Central Sulawesi province which is reeling from the risks of powerful quakes that triggered tsunami on Friday, leaving over 1,249 people dead. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 12:10:52|Editor: Chengcheng Video Player Close SANTIAGO, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Chile raised its economic growth forecast from 3.8 percent to 4.1 percent for the year due to increased investment in the construction industry, Finance Minister Felipe Larrain said Tuesday. "Despite external turmoil, the Chilean economy is recuperating with strength," the minister said at a press conference. If the adjusted forecast is met, the Chilean economy would record its biggest expansion since 2013, when growth rose 4 percent, according to the World Bank. The price of copper is predicted to be 2.96 U.S. dollars per pound, lower than the 3.12 U.S. dollars forecast in June, said the minister. Chile is the world's top copper exporter, roughly accounting for a third of the total global exports. Income from the copper industry is a major contributor to Chile's national economy. From January to June this year, Chile's non-mining industries outperformed mining ones, Larrain said. Projected growth for 2019 is 3.8 percent, the minister said. Chile's economic growth slowed between 2014 and 2017 as copper prices declined, which negatively affected private investment and exports, according to the World Bank. Sebastian Pinera, a conservative billionaire and former president who campaigned under the promise of economic growth and stability, was elected to the presidency in December 2017. Pinera once said he wants to lower corporate taxes to boost investment. Chile's economic growth recovered in 2018, with a rate of 4.8 percent in the first half of the year, according to the Word Bank. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 12:15:21|Editor: Lu Hui Video Player Close Photo taken on Aug. 2, 2018 shows the Colombo International Container Terminals in Sri Lanka. (Xinhua/Zhu Ruiqing) by Xinhua writer Yi Ling HONG KONG, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Five years after China put forward a new Maritime Silk Road initiative Indonesian Parliament Speaker Bambang Soesatyo vividly remembers how it came to be. It is in October 2013 when Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed building a close-knit China-ASEAN community and offered guidance on constructing the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road in his speech at the Indonesian parliament. As a part of the Belt and Road Initiative, the new Maritime Silk Road is designed to go from China's coast to Europe through the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean in one route, and from China's coast through the South China Sea to the South Pacific in the other. It's part of China's efforts to promote maritime cooperation, regional inter-connectivity and economic integration. Soesatyo said Indonesia plays a key role in the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, with planned infrastructure development from Aceh to North Maluku provinces. Indonesia's Global Maritime Axis plan that emphasizes the sea as the future of Indonesia is in line with the Belt and Road Initiative, said the parliament speaker. "The two ideas have shared commonalities. It's supposed to make Indonesia and China synergize well in addressing them," he said. REVIVING GLORY Looking over a vast stretch of tranquil sea, a stone tablet, which reads "the world's longest and busiest strait" in English, Malay, Chinese and Arabic, is now a legacy of past glory for Malaysia's ancient trade hub Malacca, also known as Melaka. Some 600 years ago, Malacca reached its golden age with the rise of the Maritime Silk Road. One of its highlight was the expeditions led by Chinese admiral Zheng He (1371-1433). During his seven voyages, Zheng docked his massive fleet of hundreds of ships in Malacca several times. However, the Malacca Sultanate lost its luster after being conquered and colonized by the Portuguese. It is now the smallest state in Malaysia with 1 million people and tourism is the pillar of its economy due to a lack of natural resources and heavy industry. China has been calling for the revival of the seafaring route, and Malacca has been pioneering Malaysia's active participation in the Belt and Road Initiative, capitalizing on the historical association with China. Malaysia's KAJ Development plan announced in 2016 that it would join hands with three Chinese companies -- PowerChina International, Shenzhen Yantian Port Group and Rizhao Port Group -- to build a deep sea port as part of Malacca Gateway. The Malacca Gateway, a complex consisting of the port and vast stretches of commercial, industrial and tourism facilities, is designed to sprawl over 1,366 acres and costs some 9.8 billion U.S. dollars. More than 100,000 ships pass through the Malacca Strait annually. The Malacca Gateway will be a new cost-saving option for those ships, according to Gan Tian Loo, a former Malacca commerce official in charge of business cooperation with China. Michelle Ong of KAJ Development expected the mega project to transform Malacca's economy with a new eco-system that would bring in hundreds of companies, while the local government's effort to attract Chinese investment is already bearing fruit. FRIENDSHIP BRIDGE LEADS TO BRIGHTER FUTURE With a long queue of brand-new buses rolling onto the brightly lit China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, the Maldives' long-term dream to have a cross-sea bridge eventually came true. As an iconic project of the Maldives and China in co-building the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, the 2-km bridge connects the capital Male and neighboring Hulhule island where the island nation's main international airport is located. The bridge has made it possible for the locals and tourists to transit between the two islands in the Indian Ocean within five minutes. "At first, many people including me didn't believe building a bridge here is possible. The impossible has become possible in my country," said 26-year-old Amila. "I believe the bridge will lead to a brighter future of the Maldives." Many youths in the Maldives shared the same view as Amila's over the new bridge. "The Maldives never witnessed such a mega infrastructure project. Every Maldivian youth who crosses it will learn to dream of bigger and better projects. We can now think of having a Maldivian Dream," said Midhuam Saud, vice president of the Maldives-China Trade and Cultural Organization. The cross-sea bridge makes the life of the Maldivians more convenient and simpler. However, constructing it in the sea as deep as 46 meters, with a high temperature, high humidity and high levels of ultraviolet radiation is not an easy task. Chief engineer from the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge Project Cheng Duoyun told Xinhua that in the 33 months of construction, the project had achieved a number of key technical breakthroughs. "The success of the bridge has also prepared us for similar projects in building the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road in the future," Cheng said. HOMETOWN HOPE For Ranaja, a young man from the seaside town of Hambantota in southern Sri Lanka, the Maritime Silk Road has transformed his hometown, known for its deep-water port. Sitting in the southern coast of Sri Lanka, the Hambantota Port is only 10 nautical miles from a busy shipping route in the Indian Ocean. However, development of the port was delayed for some time, plagued by a decades-long civil war and a lack of funds, technology and expertise. The dilemma persisted until a joint venture was established between Sri Lanka Ports Authority and China Merchants Port Holdings (CMPH) to co-develop the port. Phase 1 was completed in December 2011 and put into operation in June 2012. Phase 2 was completed in April 2015. Hambantota Port is the second project for CMPH in Sri Lanka after the Colombo International Container Terminal, a symbolic of cooperation between China and Sri Lanka. Chief Operating Officer from the joint-venture Hambantota International Port Group Tissa Wickramasinghe told Xinhua that the port has been functioning "extremely well," with the roll on-roll off (RO-RO) business picking up more than expected. Wickramasinghe anticipated that as long as its geological advantages are leveraged, the port will become a key node in the global supply chain to serve the South Asia market of 1.7 billion people. Moreover, the economic development of the port will benefit the whole Hambantota area and help residents in south Sri Lanka shake off poverty. Looking at the blue quay crane at the port, Ranaja, also a port worker, knows where the future of his hometown lies. "We work here not only for the short commute and good salary, but also our hopes to develop the port," he said. "It's the hope of our hometown." (Xinhua reporters Lin Hao in Kuala Lumpur, Zheng Shibo, Hanif Ahmad in Jakarta, Tao Jun, Bui Minh Long in Hanoi, Tang Lu, Zhu Ruiqing in Colombo contributed to the report) Video editor: Qiu Bo Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 12:13:51|Editor: Chengcheng Video Player Close SANTIAGO, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- The Traditional Instruments Orchestra of China's Nanjing University offered a concert of classical Chinese music on Tuesday in Chile, impressing Chilean young audience. "Nanjing University has sent this delegation to visit different universities and schools in Chile, in a bid to bring Chilean youth closer to Chinese culture through music," said Gu Hongjuan, the academic director of the Confucius Institute at Chile's Catholic University. The students at the school Colegio Yangtse were captivated from the start. The orchestra is famed for its use of traditional Chinese instruments such as liuqin, a four-stringed mandolin, dizi or the horizontal bamboo flute, and suona, a woodwind instrument known for its high-pitched sound. Students were especially enthralled at being able to get an up close look at the instruments and play them after the concert. In his opening speech, Xie Jin, also a member of the Confucius Institute, praised the performance as an opportunity "to overcome language and cultural barriers." Xie said events like this "serve to build bridges of mutual knowledge and friendship between two distant countries." Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 12:31:50|Editor: Chengcheng Video Player Close KABUL, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Two Afghan courts imprisoned 19 suspects including one woman over smuggling drugs after investigating into 12 drugs-related cases elsewhere in the country, a statement said on Wednesday. "Primary and appellate court's of Central Narcotics Tribunal (CNT), during open sessions over the last seven days, sentenced up to 19 suspects including one woman involved in 12 drug-related cases from 18 months to 13 years in jail," counter-narcotics Criminal Justice Task Force of Afghanistan (CJTF) said in the statement. The CNT is a special Afghan court for jurisdiction of major drug cases. Among other items confiscated by security organs from the suspects were up to 214 kg heroin, 8 kg of opium, 1,026 kg hashish and 663 grams methamphetamine, the statement noted. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 12:34:57|Editor: Chengcheng Video Player Close ROME, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- The opportunities and challenges of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) could be more easily addressed if the European Union (EU) forges a common position on the development plan, experts highlighted here on Monday in a seminar. "It is an initiative nobody can ignore, and it is interesting for any single country beyond the possible historical and geographical links to the ancient Silk Road," former Italian Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Paolo Gentiloni said. He urged the participants to "discuss the initiative's opportunities, advantages and conditions, without any ideological hostility," saying that the BRI represents "the largest investment plan and the largest investment opportunity now in the world." "We need common investments and fair and free trade. This is our commitment, and I am convinced such commitment would be made easier by a common EU attitude to the BRI," he added. Gathering at Rome-based Institute of International Affairs for the seminar "China's Belt and Road Initiative, 500 days after the 2017 Beijing summit," Chinese officials and analysts from Italy, France, Britian, Greece and Poland discussed the initiative's current state and prospects. In May 2017, Beijing hosted the first-ever Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, which was attended by state and government leaders from nearly 30 countries. "That Forum produced 279 projects at the time. Now, some 265 of those projects have entered the operational stage, with an implementation of over 96 percent," Chinese Ambassador to Italy Li Ruiyu said in his opening remarks. Reporting on his country's experience with the BRI, Greek former Finance Minister and economist Giorgos Papakonstantinou agreed that a common EU approach would help its member states to address more comprehensively both opportunities and concerns related to the initiative. "China came to Greece when nobody else would," Papakonstantinou stressed, referring to the large flow of Chinese investments to the country at the height of Greece's economic crisis. The official mentioned the Piraeus Port, Greece's largest harbor, as one major example of these investments and a potential component of the BRI. A part of the Piraeus port has in fact been under the management of Chinese shipping company China COSCO Shipping since 2009, thanks to a deal for a 35-year concession signed with Greek authorities. Finally, the need for EU countries to develop a common framework to approach the Chinese initiative was highlighted by Francoise Nicolas, senior research fellow and director of the Center for Asian Studies with the French Institute of International Relations. "The Belt and Road Initiative is a comprehensive project, and requires a comprehensive response," Nicolas said. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 12:56:04|Editor: Chengcheng Video Player Close BRASILIA, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Brazil's Agricultural Parliamentary Front (FPA), which gathers federal deputies and senators with ties to the farming sector, formally endorsed right-wing presidential candidate Jair Bolsonaro. "We will join forces to stop candidates linked to corruption schemes and the deepening of Brazil's economic crisis from returning to power," Tereza Cristina, president of the FPA, said in a statement. In response to the support, Bolsonaro reaffirmed his pledge to relax environmental regulations by combining the Ministries of Agriculture and Environment, in a bid to "resolve" problems affecting a sector that "has been a huge help to Brazil economically." Analysts estimate the legislature's "farming bloc" comprises more than 250 lawmakers. FPA's support for Bolsonaro of the conservative Social Liberal Party comes in spite of the fact that many of those same lawmakers belong to political parties that are part of the coalition backing another presidential candidate Geraldo Alckmin of the Brazilian Social Democracy Party. But with only five days before the Oct. 7 elections, and Alckmin stuck in the polls at only 8 percent while the voting intentions for Bolsonaro rose to 31 percent, the bloc opted for the front-runner. Bolsonaro is widely expected to win the first electoral round among all the 13 candidates. However, polls show he would likely lose a runoff later this month to leftist candidate Fernando Haddad, who replaced Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as the Workers' Party's candidate. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 13:43:33|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close ULAN BATOR, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia has set a goal of earning one billion U.S. dollars from the gold sector in coming years, the country's Minister of Mining and Heavy Industry Dolgorsuren Sumiyabazar said Tuesday. Sumiyabazar made the remarks in a speech delivered at the opening ceremony of a meeting discussing the current situation of the Mongolian gold sector, challenges facing gold miners and investment in the industry. To achieve the goal, the Ministry of Mining and Heavy Industry is planning to implement a policy to shift from placer gold mining to lode deposits in the coming five years as placer deposits are close to exhaustion, he said. According to the country's central bank, gold miners submitted 20.01 tons of gold to the central bank in 2017, contributing about 800 million dollars to the state budget. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 14:00:12|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close KABUL, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) on Wednesday expressed concern over increased election-related violence and attacks, the UNAMA said in a statement. "The UNAMA expresses its concern around the level of violence early in the campaigning period for the 20 October parliamentary elections, including intimidation and attacks against candidates, their agents and supporters," the statement said. The mission condemned a latest attack that killed at least 14 civilians and wounded a further 42 when a suicide attacker struck at a campaign rally in eastern Nangarhar on Tuesday. "Since campaigning formally commenced on 28 September, there have been several attacks resulting in the killing of a candidate and three security guards of another candidate, as well as the shooting of a further candidate's agent and son," the statement added. The UNAMA also urged all actors to halt all violence and intimidation against candidates and voters, the statement read. "I am outraged by attacks deliberately targeting civilians seeking to exercise their basic right to participate in elections," Tadamichi Yamamoto, UN Secretary-General's special representative for Afghanistan, was quoted in the statement as saying. "This violence, including Tuesday's reprehensible attack in Nangarhar, is an assault on the constitutional rights of the people of Afghanistan." he said. The electoral campaign for the Oct. 20 Afghan parliamentary elections began Friday across the country. Around 2,691 candidates from 33 out of 34 provinces (excluding Ghazni) will run for the parliament's 249 seats, another milestone in the war-torn country's electoral history. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 14:15:40|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close KANDAHAR, Afghanistan, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Three police have been killed and six others sustained injuries as anti-government militants stormed a checkpoint in Marof district of the southern Kandahar province on Tuesday, police spokesman in the province Zia Durani said Wednesday. Taliban militants, according to the official, were attempting to conduct a car bombing in Marof district late Tuesday night but the vicious design had been foiled by police and gun fight erupted which lasted for a while and resultantly three police personnel lost their lives. Six more police personnel sustained injuries in the firefight, Durani confirmed. The official also asserted that a number of Taliban militants were also killed and injured in the firefight, but could not provide a figure. Taliban militants are yet to make comment on the report. Kennesaw, Georgia, USA, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Industrial Specialists, a BrandSafway company and a member of the American Welding Society, is introducing BrandTech Precision Welding, a modular-welding system with built-in technology, which allows for one or two welding guns to be used at the same time. Manufactured in the United States with USA-made parts, BrandTech Precision Welding uses a drawn arc welding process, a very stable form of welding that reduces filler material and shielded gas while producing a complete fusion in less time with fewer welding layers. The industry is booming, but a labor shortage has left our clients searching for new ways to increase productivity and get more done with fewer workers, said Dave Witsken, president of the Energy & Industrial Division at BrandSafway. With BrandTech Precision Welding, our clients can get the same amount of work done with two precision welders as they did with 16 standard welders without sacrificing quality. An average project with 20,000 welds typically takes 80, 12-hour shifts using two-welder stick welding, but the same project can be reduced to just eight, 12-hour shifts with two BrandTech welders, significantly reducing project timelines and costs. With five times the average pull ratio and better control, the average error rate is less than 0.5 percent. BrandTech Precision Welding offers an easy-to-use touchpad control panel, which gives the operator full control to set all welding parameters and the ability to weld around or behind tubes and other obstructions without the risk of arcing. BrandTech also dramatically reduces hexavalent chromium emissions, which decreases exposure risk and creates a safer workplace. The simple set-up, rigging and operation reduces the amount of timeand number of weldersneeded to complete a project. Increased speed can mean reduced quality and safety, but not with BrandTech, said Eduardo Almeida, director of Technology for Industrial Specialists. Our precision welder gives operators total control of welding variables, allowing them to weld onto existing thin plates and the ability to reach into tight and congested areas without damaging existing structures. For more information about BrandTech Precision Welding, visit www.brandtechwelding.com. About Industrial Specialists Industrial Specialists, LLC provides customers with more than 35 years of refractory installation experience. With 600-plus expert refractory specialists and supervisors, Industrial Specialists offers solutions for all phases of refractory construction including turnarounds, major revamps, maintenance and new construction projects. Industrial Specialists has three locations in Louisiana and Texas, providing superior capabilities and delivering results that are safe, on time and on budget even in the most challenging environments. About BrandSafway With a commitment to safety as its foremost value, BrandSafway provides the broadest range of services, products and solutions, with the greatest depth of expertise, to the industrial, commercial and infrastructure markets. A portfolio company of Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, BrandSafway offers access, industrial services and forming and shoring solutions to more than 32,000 customers through a workforce of approximately 35,000 employees, who support our network of 350 strategic locations across 30 countries. With its global footprint, rigorous operating processes and extensive service offeringsa full range of work access, insulation, coatings, specialty industrial services and forming and shoring solutionsBrandSafway supports customers maintenance and refurbishment needs as well as new construction and expansion plans. Todays BrandSafwaylarge enough to leverage economies of scale to increase safety and productivity, while also remaining nimble and responsivedelivers unmatched service with local labor and management. ### Attachments Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 15:19:44|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close OTTAWA, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) reached Sunday to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement is significant "less for what's in it than what it avoids," said the head of Canada's largest business association. "We've avoided U.S. tariffs on Canadian automobiles and an all-out trade war between Canada and the U.S., and reduced the uncertainty surrounding Canada-U.S. trade, which is positive for investors," Perrin Beatty, president of Canadian Chamber of Commerce, told Xinhua. U.S. President Donald Trump had threatened to impose auto tariffs, which were initially under the pretext that imports of vehicles and parts threatened national security. On Monday, however, he admitted that they were used as a "negotiating point" to reach a trade deal with Canada. Under the USMCA, the first 2.6 million Canadian-made vehicles exported to the United States will be exempt from any future tariffs, significantly more than the current 1.8 million Canadian cars and SUVs exported to the United States annually. However, Beatty, also a former senior Canadian cabinet minister, remains concerned about the tariffs the United States imposed on Canadian steel and aluminum earlier this year, which are also based on a national security provision of a U.S. trade law. Getting those U.S. levies removed is "job number one," Beatty said. "These are illegal tariffs applied against Canadian steel and aluminum that should have never been imposed," he said. "We have a shared defense industrial base, and Canada's ability to supply steel and aluminum helped to backstop American security and is not a threat." If the United States doesn't eliminate those tariffs, Canada, which has implemented its own retaliatory duties against U.S. steel and aluminum, should "use every legal means to challenge them," Beatty said, adding that he had hoped the Americans would have lifted the levies "in good faith" as part of a broader USMCA. In June, Washington imposed steep import tariffs on steel (25 percent) and aluminum (10 percent) from Mexico, Canada and the European Union. The U.S. administration said Monday that it would keep in place tariffs against Canadian steel and aluminum imports, one of the key weapons it used as leverage during the negotiations that took more than a year. Leaders of the three countries are expected to convene before the end of November to sign the deal. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 15:36:01|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close KABUL, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Five militants of Haqqani militant group had been killed following an Afghan Air Force-led airstrike in Afghanistan's eastern province of Paktika, the country's defense ministry said Wednesday. The strike was launched in Gomal district after an intelligence tip-off confirmed the presence of the militants in a remote area in the district, bordering Pakistan, the ministry said in a statement. As a Taliban-linked group of militants, the Haqqani network was designated as a terrorist group by the United States in 2012. The group has yet to make comments on the report. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 15:37:38|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MOSCOW, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Space Forces of the Russian Aerospace Forces have detected and tracked over 40 launches of domestic and foreign space rockets and ballistic missiles since the beginning of 2018, the Russian Defense Ministry's Krasnaya Zvezda newspaper said on Wednesday. Furthermore, over 500 spacecraft have been put into orbit worldwide while 180 were deorbited, the paper said. The Space Forces also recorded 10 potentially dangerous approaches of space objects toward Russian satellites between January and September. According to the Sputnik news agency, the Space Forces recorded over 60 launches of foreign and Russian ballistic missiles and space rockets in 2017. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 15:38:47|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MOSCOW, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Russian Defense Ministry on Wednesday published a video which shows the delivery of S-300 surface-to-air missile systems to Syria. According to a footage aired by the Rossiya 24 and Zvezda TV channels, the missile systems were unloaded from the An-124-100 Russian strategic airlift jet aircraft at the Hmeymim air base in Syria. On Tuesday, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Russia has completed the delivery of S-300 missile systems to Syria to improve the safety of its military personnel deployed in the country. The delivery was finished on Monday. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 15:41:46|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close by Abu Hanifah PALU, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The recently tsunami-swept Central Sulawesi province capital of Palu was still lingered with helplessness due to stalled economy following multiple cuts down on electricity and fuel supplies that paralyzed activities to run the economy in the city. Such a situation was worsened by rampant looting of merchandises in stores conducted by people in the city, making all stores, gas stations and other economic elements stop their operation. The looting of stores and mini markets in Palu and the other city affected by the earthquake, Donggala, has entered a concerning level as people also targeted stores selling secondary goods other than stores selling staple foods and daily necessities. The Indonesian government has previously allowed tsunami survivors to take food and other basic supplies from grocery stores to temporarily support their lives after the tsunami while aids were being delivered to them. The process to deliver aids for refugees and survivors of tsunami faced difficulties as the main land accesses to Palu and Donggala were clogged by stones rolling down from hills due to aftershocks that made it riskier for aids team to get supplies to Palu. The province's only airport serving flights to Palu was not operating normally as part of its runway was cracked by the strong earthquake that made it only capable of serving propeller planes, instead of large cargo aids deliverer planes. Responding to the developing situation, Indonesian President Joko Widodo issued an order to immediately recover the economy in Palu and fix the damaged infrastructure so as to secure distribution of logistics. "I have ordered the police chief and military commander to deploy more personnel in guarding gas stations and business centers so as to make stores reopened, recover the economy in Palu," the president said in Jakarta on Tuesday. He pointed out that accelerated works need to be carried out by related institutions to fix the airport, access roads blocked by mud and stones from the earthquake. The government is taking measures to restore security for shop and store owners by arresting looters caught red-handed. So far the authorities have arrested 45 looters, but the stores have yet to get reopened for the public in downtown Palu. The Indonesian retailers association said that losses sustained by mini market chain stores operating in Palu and Donggala had reached 450 billion rupiah (about 2.9 million U.S. dollars) as of Monday. The losses came up from the looted merchandises, store buildings, display set and warehouse operated by mini markets in the association, including Ramayana, Matahari, Hypermarket and Alfamidi. The military would deploy three battalions to the two cities to ensure the security of stores and mini markets, so that people can buy food and groceries. The government's quick response to restore the economy in Palu was gladly welcomed by a Palu resident Anwar Hamdi. He said that it would return order to the city, giving equal chances for all people to buy supplies for their families. "Even I have one million rupiah (about 66 U.S. dollars) now in my hand I can not buy anything here. The government's responsive measure is good. I expect to buy foods and my household necessities with normal prices in the next few days. We already had enough with these uncertainties," Anwar told Xinhua here on Wednesday. Entering the fourth day from Friday's tsunami, the Indonesian government has restored power supply in parts of the city Palu. Supply of gasoline has also been gradually improving as the government has ordered state-run oil and gas firm Pertamina to mobilize its gasoline stocks stored in provinces around Central Sulawesi to the tsunami-affected Palu. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 15:56:35|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SINGAPORE, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Singapore's Senior Minister of State for Transport and Health Lam Pin Min said on Wednesday that the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has allocated five million Singapore dollars (about 3.64 million U.S. dollars) under the Green Energy Programme to support the development and use of cleaner alternative marine fuels such as biofuels and methanol. He said in his opening address at the 20th Singapore International Bunkering Conference and Exhibition (SIBCON) that companies can use the fund in their research and development in alternative fuels to meet future greenhouse gas emissions regulations. Lam said the MPA is working closely with the industry to ensure Singapore is ready for the International Maritime Organization (IMO)'s 0.5 percent Global Sulphur Limit, which will take effect from the beginning of 2020, and can supply low-sulphur compliant fuels ahead of the date. "MPA will make available the list of licensed bunker suppliers of low-sulphur fuels in Singapore by mid-2019," he said. The two-day SIBCON features key international speakers and brings together bunkering professionals, academic experts and high-level industry executives to exchange ideas on current trends and the future of the bunker industry. On the first day of the event, ExxonMobil has confirmed that all its IMO compliant, 0.5 percent sulphur fuels developed to date, are residual grades. It has also announced specification details and confirmed that the formulations are all compatible with each other, provided that bunkering, storage and handling best practice guidance is followed. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 16:06:38|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close DUBAI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Dubai International Airport has hosted over 8 million passengers in August, the second consecutive month that saw the number of passengers exceed 8 million, said the Dubai government's media office Wednesday. On average, the busy civil aviation hub recorded an average monthly traffic of 7.5 million passengers. "That's 1.2 million more than its closest rival London Heathrow of 6.29 million," said the report. India remained the airport's top destination country in terms of customer volumes, with total traffic reaching 1,012,124 during the month. Saudi Arabia was second with 613,618 customers, followed by Britain with 603,531. The top three cities of destination were London with 371,574 customers, Kuwait with 272,607 and Mumbai with 210,820. Earlier on Sunday, Dubai International Airport denied Yemeni Houthi rebels' reports that the airport was attacked by drones, the Dubai government's media office said. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 16:28:17|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close URUMQI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- On a large patch of fiery red field, several harvesters are reaping chilies, and a farmer surnamed Guo phones for a truck to load them. It has happened much quicker than he expected due to a new batch of harvesting machines. The latest-generation chili harvester works fast. Really fast. In just two hours, 1.5 hectares of red field turned green. The small town of Anjihai in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region boasts high-quality chilies thanks to its long daylight hours and a fine environment. To farmers like Guo, the tender, spicy fruit brings in half their annual income. So, in harvest season, people waste no time reaping the crops and drying them under the Gobi desert sun. Luckily, today they have machines to buy them time. As modern agriculture has developed in Anjihai, the harvesters are used in 95 percent of more than 2,600 hectares of chili fields. Local farmers are good at doing the math. A harvester can reap five to eight hectares of chilies, or 160 to 240 tonnes of chilies, a day, but it needs 400 people and 12 times the money to finish the same amount of work. Liu Peijun was one of the first farmers to use the chili harvesters in the area. He and several farmers established a cooperative in 2014 to work with the machines. "It was difficult. Old farmers said we were mad," Liu said. Liu invited farmers of two villages to watch how fast and neatly the machines worked. Everyone was convinced. Within four years, the machines were widely used on fields in Anjihai. They help farmers sow, spray insecticide and harvest. To develop modern agriculture, the local government has been encouraging farmers to team up as cooperatives to plant crops on a larger scale since 2010. As a result, the machines can work on larger fields. Today farmers are using the fourth-generation harvesters, which are 30 percent more efficient. As machines have replaced people, new jobs have emerged in the town. Apart from harvester driver, technicians are one of the most sought-after jobs. Technician Zheng Yasheng has started chili harvester work this year. Now he is able to modify an old harvester to make it almost as good as the latest model. "Every coin has two sides," Liu said. "In the past we needed the whole village to grow chilies. Now five people will do." As many jobs were "stolen" by the machines, most farmers have gone to work in the cities. But Liu has bigger ambitions. He plans to take 50 fellow villagers, who were liberated from local farm work, to Aksu Prefecture, where he has contracted a vast area of farmland to grow cotton. In Aksu, cotton-picking machines and driverless tractors are also used to ease the burden of farmers. As an important agricultural region in China, vast, scarcely populated Xinjiang use machines to grow and reap crops on 84 percent of its farmland, playing a leading role in the country's modern agricultural development. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 16:42:26|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close People transfer an injured man at a local hospital after a suicide attack in Kama district of Nangarhar province, Afghanistan, Oct. 2, 2018. At least 13 people were killed and 30 others wounded after a suicide bombing ripped through an election rally in Afghanistan's eastern province of Nangarhar on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Saifurahman Safi) Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 16:41:05|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close TEHRAN, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Iran exported 5.82 million tons of cement and clinker during the first five months of the current Iranian calendar year (March 21-Aug. 22), showing a 17.3 per cent of rise compared with the corresponding period of past year, Eghtesadonline news website reported on Wednesday. Cement accounted for some 2.94 million tons of the total sum and the remaining 2.88 million tons was clinker, Mohammad Atabak, head of the board of directors at Cement Employers Association, was quoted as saying. Iranian cement was exported to more than 20 countries of which Afghanistan and Iraq, purchasing 30 percent and 26 percent of the total exports respectively, were the first and second biggest customers, Atabak said. Bangladesh and Kuwait were Iran's first and second biggest clinker customers over the period with a 22 percent and 21 percent share of total exports respectively, he added. Iran produced 24.08 million tons of cement during the five-month period, registering an increase of over 244,000 tons compared with past year's corresponding period. Clinker production also witnessed 2.7 percent increase to 26.09 million tons during the five month period year on year. Healdsburg, California, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tom Klein, Proprietor of Rodney Strong Wine Estates and a third-generation California farmer, today unveiled Rowen Wine Company, a new venture that celebrates the pioneering American West and a bold and innovative approach to winemaking. Rowen Wine Company is a study in terroir focused on the Cooley Ranch, a remote and historic property high atop undulating mountains around a glistering lake in the northern reaches of Sonoma County. Klein, through familial relationship with the Cooley Family, began discussions in 2002 to return parts of the ranch to vineyards, echoing its rich history dating back to the 1800s. This challenging endeavor began with detailed studies of the microclimates, soils, and elevations throughout the property by two of the most respected soil scientists in the world, Paul Anamosa and Daniel Roberts. The result is 200 amazing acres planted and sustainably farmed on highly desirable metamorphic greenstone soils, at ideal elevations with perfect aspects to the sun. The majesty and scenic beauty, along with the unlimited potential for growing high-elevation wine, make Cooley Ranch the most exciting and unique property Ive ever seen, says Klein. We knew the land was something special when we first glanced upon it, and we consider it a privilege to make wine from this spot. The Rowen Wine Company portfolio is comprised of three brands: the eponymous Rowen, celebrating the art of the blend; and a duo of Cabernet-inspired reds, 2040 and 600L. Each is crafted by winemaker Justin Seidenfeld exclusively from the Cooley Ranch and fermented in a state-of-the-art wine cellar, called The Boneyard. Rowen Red Blend In farming parlance, a rowen is an unexpected windfall or pleasant surprise, which is fitting for this unique synthesis of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Syrah co-fermented with Viognier. With the flagship Rowen Red Blend, winemaker Justin Seidenfeld leans into the freedoms of blending together different combinations of mountain-grown grape varietals, flavors, and textures with each vintage. 2040 2040 is inspired by our passion to create wines from high-elevation vineyards, wines reflective of the apex of the land, with sights set on the highest peaks of northern Sonoma County. Comprised of Cabernet Sauvignon from the highest point of Cooley Ranch at 2,040 feet above sea level, 2040 is a lens in to the terroir of the rugged Sky High block of Cooley Ranch. 600L Named for the fermentation vessel, a custom-made 600-liter barrel, 600L is the result of setting winemaker Justin Seidenfeld free to craft the wine of his dreams, with absolutely no constraints. Sourced from only twelve rows of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot from the Cooley Ranch and crafted in minuscule quantities, 600L is quite simply excellence, refined. Rowen Wine Company plans to add other wines and brands to its lineup in the years ahead, with each promising to surprise and inspire the senses. Learn more at www.RowenWineCompany.com About Rodney Strong Wine Estates Rodney Strong Wine Estates is a family-owned wine company that includes Rodney Strong Vineyards, Davis Bynum Winery, and Rowen Wine Company. Rodney Strong sustainably farms 14 estate vineyards and produces wines from Sonoma Countys finest appellations Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley, Chalk Hill, Dry Creek Valley, Knights Valley, Petaluma Gap, and Sonoma Coast. The winery was founded in 1959 by Sonoma County wine pioneer Rodney D. Strong as the 13th bonded winery in the county. The company aspires to conserve and protect the environment in all its operations through sustainable practices, solar power, and fish-friendly farming. The Klein family, a fourth generation California farming family, entered the wine business with the purchase of Rodney Strong Vineyards in 1989. Learn more at www.RodneyStrong.com Attachments Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 16:56:15|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence on Tuesday to Vietnam over the passing of former leader Do Muoi. "We are shocked to hear that comrade Do Muoi, former general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, passed away," Xi said in the message to Nguyen Phu Trong, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee. "On behalf of the CPC, the Chinese government and people, as well as in my own name, I extend the deepest condolences to you and through you to the CPV, the Vietnamese government and people." Xi also expressed his sympathies to Do Muoi's family. Comrade Do Muoi was an outstanding party and state leader of Vietnam, who committed himself to the country's reform and renewal as well as the cause of socialist construction, the Chinese president said. As a close comrade and friend of the Chinese people, Do Muoi had made important contributions to the relations between the two countries and parties, Xi noted. Xi said he believes that under the strong leadership of the general secretary, the CPV, the Vietnamese government and people will turn grief into strength, and continue to make new achievements in their country's socialist development. Xi added that China is willing to work with Vietnam to further consolidate their traditional friendship, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and promote the sustained, healthy and stable development of the China-Vietnam comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 16:58:23|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close NEW DELHI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Visiting United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Wednesday presented the world body's highest environmental honor "Champions of the Earth" award to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The award was handed over to Modi in New Delhi during a function. "The world needs bold leadership on climate action. I thank India for setting an example and was pleased to present Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Champions of the Earth award," Guterres said. Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron were jointly awarded the UN's highest environmental honor for their pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and promoting new areas of cooperation on environmental action. "This award is a recognition of those tribals, who love forests more than their lives, of those fishermen, who take only that much from the sea what is required for their livelihood and of those farmers for whom cycle of seasons is same as cycle of life," Modi said. The annual prize is awarded to outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions have had a positive impact on the environment. Guterres arrived in New Delhi on Monday for a four-day visit to India. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 17:22:36|Editor: mmm Video Player Close WELLINGTON, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand and German agencies will work together on space related research, activities and technologies following the signing of an agreement at the 69th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Germany's Bremen this week, a government statement said on Wednesday. New Zealand's Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and the German Aerospace Center have signed a Letter of Intent which will see the development of joint research on areas including space systems, earth observation, and transport and energy technologies, the government statement said. MBIE houses the New Zealand Space Agency, the lead government agency for space policy, regulation and business development, and a number of staff have attended the IAC this week to meet with the international space ecosystem to discuss the rapid changes in the industry and the growth of commercial space activity worldwide, it said. MBIE's general manager of Science, Innovation and International, Peter Crabtree, who leads the New Zealand Space Agency, said the agreement is another important step forward for the burgeoning Kiwi space sector. "This new agreement offers an exciting opportunity to connect New Zealand's research institutions with world-leading space scientists and engineers in Germany, and greater support for the ongoing creation of a thriving New Zealand space sector," Crabtree said. Satellite-based earth observation in particular is of growing importance to both countries, including for environmental protection, navigation, agriculture, and disaster risk-management, he said. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 17:26:59|Editor: mmm Video Player Close ISTANBUL, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Turkish police on Wednesday caught 42 Pakistani illegal migrants inside a small lorry in central Istanbul, local media reported. Police acted upon a tip of a citizen who saw the lorry on the street in the district of Bagcilar filled with refugees, the Milliyet daily said. The truck driver escaped during the police control, it noted, adding police teams were hunting him. The migrants will be deported after the completion of their testimonies at the police station in the district. In a separate incident on Monday, security forces captured a total of 140 illegal migrants, including Pakistani and Afghan nationals, in a single house in the eastern province of Van. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 18:22:51|Editor: mmm Video Player Close DAMASCUS, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Syria is preparing for post-war rebuilding as the counter-terrorism battle is approaching an end, Syrian Minister of Public Works and Housing, Hussein Arnous, told Xinhua. The minister's remarks came as the Syrian government has opened the Rebuild Syria Fair on Tuesday evening with the aim of promoting the reconstruction process in Syria as the next stage. The Rebuild Syria comes a month after the government held the Damascus international trade fair with the same message to foreign and local companies to invest in Syria to support the reconstruction. In his remarks to Xinhua, Arnous said holding several fairs in the country indicates the recovery of the economic and security situation in Syria. "We want to say that Syria has almost finished countering terrorism and is now preparing for the reconstruction process and thus these fairs are means to promote products and plans for the reconstruction process," the minister said. A total of 270 companies from 29 countries, including Western ones, took part in the five-day fair. Arnous said that the increased participants in the fair indicates the importance of such venues to help contractors and people interested in public and private sectors find their needs in local and foreign markets. At the Iranian pavilion, Iranian ambassador Javad Turk-Abadi told reporters that his country's participation in the expos is a sign that Iran wants to stand by the Syrian side in the reconstruction. "The concept of our participation in the fair is out of our desire to say that we want to be by the side of our Syrian brothers in the reconstruction process," the ambassador said. Lebanese companies have also taken part in the fair, hoping to make some investment in the country, which is the threshold of beginning the reconstruction process. Jean Pierre, a representative of a contracting and cladding company, said he looked forward to the prospects of the reconstruction in Syria. "The future of reconstruction in Syria is something huge ... We will participate to the best of our abilities as our company deals in the projects of contracting and cladding of exteriors," he said. Still, Pierre said that there is still some ambiguity in terms of the customs and money transitions, hoping that when the country opens up in the future, there will be new and clearer laws. The ambiguity for the traders and businessmen comes from the way the government would deal with foreign investments due to the Western sanctions on Syria, which are considered as the main hurdle in the face of foreign businesses in the country. As for the Chinese companies, Girvan, the regional director of the Truemax Group Limited, told Xinhua that his company is taking part in the fair promoting its heavy equipment. "We want to support the rebuilding of Syria and for my company, we are specialized in the manufacturing of heavy equipment like crushers and concrete machines, especially for building construction. So I am sure we can do very good business in the future," he said. The Syrian government has started promoting the reconstruction process as the Syrian army has restored 90 percent of the country after more than seven years of war. In an interview aired Tuesday on the pan-Arab al-Mayadeen TV, Walid al-Muallem, the Syrian foreign minister, called on Syrian refugees abroad to return to the country and take part in the reconstruction process. He said that the last chapter of the war on terrorism will be through clearing off Idlib province in northwestern Syria from the ultra-radical rebel groups. The United Nations has recently announced that the seven-year war in Syria implied a destruction of nearly 400 billion U.S. dollars, which means that companies from around the world will show up to do business in Syria. According to estimates published by the World Bank in late 2017, the long-standing war in Syria has ravaged its infrastructure and caused losses to its economy of 226 billion dollars. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 19:09:26|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SUVA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Digital innovation for financial services in Fiji have now become an increasing trend for the younger generation, said Fiji's Vodafone head of mCommerce and Corporate Affairs Shailendra Prasad on Wednesday. The Pacific Financial Inclusion Program (PFIP), which began in 2008, is all about how people in the Pacific region can access banking services through their mobile phones. According to Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC) on Wednesday, Prasad said the MPaisa system allowed Fijian people to make payments and access transactions electronically. "For a small country like Fiji, where 35 percent to 40 percent of the payment is either to government or from government, it provides a critical message to go digital and its sort of good initiative to be part of it, Prasad said. This financial inclusion program is also taught in schools and Fijian children are qualified to learn about financial literacy through it, he added. Around 150 participants from across the Pacific region, Africa and Southeast Asia gathered Wednesday to celebrate the 10th year anniversary of the Pacific Financial Inclusion Program (PFIP) at the University of the South Pacific. PFIP is a Pacific-wide program that has helped over 1.78 million low-income Pacific islanders gain access to financial services and financial education. It achieves these results by funding innovation with financial services and delivery channels, supporting policy and regulatory initiatives, and empowering consumers. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 19:10:14|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MAIMANA, Afghanistan, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- A clash between Taliban and security forces has left seven insurgents dead in Khawja Sabzpush district of Afghanistan's northern Faryab province on Wednesday, a police spokesman in the northern region Sayed Sarwar Hussaini said. The clash, according to the official, broke out early Wednesday during which 10 insurgents were injured in the ongoing fighting. He added that government forces would continue to chase the militants to ensure lasting peace in the area. Taliban militants have not commented yet. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 19:15:55|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit China on Oct. 8, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson announced Wednesday. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said in a statement that China and the United States would exchange views on bilateral ties and regional and international issues of common concern. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 19:20:00|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SUVA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Fijians were urged on Wednesday to prepare for larger ageing population, as the country is expected to have more than 28,000 aged 60 and over by 2050. According to a government statement, speaking at celebrations to mark the International Day of Older Persons in Ba, western Fiji on Wednesday, Fiji's Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Mereseini Vuniwaqa said that longer lives must be planned for, as societal ageing may affect economic growth and many other issues, including the sustainability of families, the ability of states and communities to provide resources for older citizens, and international relations. "In 2015, Fiji's older population comprised 9.3 percent of the total population and is expected to reach nearly 20 percent of the population in 2050. This brings to reality the need to prepare ourselves for an ageing population," she said. Fiji's older persons category is defined as aged 60 and over, and this population has steadily increased since 2000. In 2010, the number of older persons aged 60 and over stood at 69,300. By 2050, it is estimated to stand at 170,500. The Fijian government's commitment to the care of the nation's elderly population is strengthened in the 2013 constitution, National Ageing Policy, the National Council of Older Persons and pension schemes by the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation. According to the minister, the Fijian government had also lowered the eligibility age for the Social Pension Scheme to 65 years of age as opposed to 70 years. The government has also doubled the pension from 50 Fijian dollars (about 23.4 U.S. dollars) to 100 Fijian dollars (about 46.7 U.S. dollars) per month for beneficiaries as of last year. Every older person aged 60 and over now has benefited from the 100 percent bus fare concession by the Fijian government and the Fiji Bus Operators Association. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 19:33:23|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close RAMALLAH, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Wednesday called on Germany to exert pressure on Israel pushing for peace in the region, official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported. Abbas made the remarks in a letter to German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who is expected to pay a two-day visit to Israel and hold talks with senior Israeli officials. In the letter, Abbas expressed his appreciation for Germany's support of Palestinian people's efforts to build their economy and institutions, urging the German leader to make an effort to achieve peace in the region. "We rely heavily on your important and active role and support of our sincere efforts to achieve a just peace in our region, which will be based on international resolutions, signed agreements and the two-state principle," he said. Earlier on Wednesday, Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah met with head of German representative office in Ramallah, urging him to act immediately to prevent Israel's plan to demolish Khan al-Ahmar village east of Jerusalem. Israeli reports said Israel will not demolish the village during Merkel's visit. Khan Al-Ahmar is a Bedouin community located east of Jerusalem. It was put under a tight blockade by Israeli forces who controlled the access of supporters to the community after the end of the one-week notice allowed by the Israeli high court ahead of demolition order on Oct. 1. Since the court ruling came out, the Palestinians declared that there will be no new appeal to Israeli courts, but they will sue Israel at international courts if the village is demolished and start open solidarity movements in the community. Dozens of tin-ceiling homes and basic structures are slated for demolition in the area, which suffers a lack of basic services and infrastructure. The community is one of the 46 Bedouin communities in the central West Bank that the United Nations considers at risk of forcible transfer, which is defined as a war crime under international law. AMITYVILLE, NY, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE -- Iconic Brands, Inc. (OTC PINK: ICNB) is pleased to announce that our brand partner, legendary supermodel and entrepreneur, Christie Brinkley will be signing bottles of Bellissima Prosecco at the Vintages Yonge & Summerhill store from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Saturday October 13th, located at 10 Scrivener Square, Toronto-Central. The in-store team will be offering tastings to customers from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM. The company invites everyone to please come by and meet Christie and try her Bellissima Prosecco. Bellissima Prosecco will be available initially in most of the 200 Vintage Stores, www.vintage.com. We will continue to expand in additional markets throughout Canada. Additionally, the company is finalizing agreements with distribution partners in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. We will announce our partners in these markets shortly. Mr. Richard DeCicco commented, I am thrilled we are finally on the shelves in Canada. I look forward to meeting everyone on the 13th. Please visit our website and follow us on twitter @BellissimabyCB and on Instagram @BellissimaProsecco: View Christies appearance schedule which we will continue to update, and great new recipes; www.bellissimaprosecco.com About Iconic Brands, Inc. Iconic Brands Inc. ("Iconic") is a beverage company with the highest expertise of developing, from inception to completion, alcoholic beverages for itself and third parties. Iconic Brands markets and places products into national distribution through long standing industry relationships. Iconic is also a leader in "Celebrity Branding" of beverages, procuring superior and unique products from around the world and branding its products with internationally recognized celebrities. Currently offering Bivi Vodka, www.BiviVodka.comand Bellissima Prosecco, www.BellissimaProsecco.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology including "could", "may", "will", "should", "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "predict", "potential" and the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. While these forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect our current judgment regarding the direction of our business, actual results will almost always vary, sometimes materially, from any estimates, predictions, projections, assumptions or other future performance suggested in this report. Except as required by applicable law, we do not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements so as to conform these statements to actual results. Investors should refer to the risks disclosed in the Company's reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available at www.sec.gov. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 19:51:37|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close GAZA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The staff of United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) in the Gaza Strip went on a general strike on Wednesday for the second day, according to UNRWA staff union. Amir al-Misehal, chairman of UNRWA staff union, had announced on Monday that the staff of UNRWA would go on a general strike on Tuesday and Wednesday at all the facilities and institutions of the agency. He said in a press statement that the two-day strike was held at all UNRWA's facilities in the Gaza Strip in protest against the agency's cuts policies on the agency's staff and Palestinian refugees. On Tuesday, UNRWA's staff stopped working at all educational, health and other services centers except emergency services, according to the organizers. Signs were placed on the gate of the humanitarian headquarters in west Gaza City, saying "a general strike in protest against lying off UNRWA's employees and reduction of services." Yousef Hamdouna, secretary general of UNRWA staff union, stressed that the strike "is a legal right for UNRWA's staff union to condemn what the agency is practicing of unfair decisions of firing employees and reducing its services provided to Palestinian refugees." Hamdouna called on UNRWA to regret its decisions, adding that "it aims at resolving its fiscal crisis at the expense of the employees and the refugees." On Monday, UNRWA decided to temporarily withdraw part of its international staff from Gaza following a series of worrying security incidents affecting its personnel in Gaza Strip. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 19:58:59|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Chinese legal experts have said the hefty fines issued to actress Fan Bingbing underline a resolve to fight tax evasion and healthily develop China's film and TV sector. China's tax authorities on Wednesday made public the results of an investigation into Fan's tax evasion case, one of the largest of its kind in years. Investigators found that Fan had evaded about 7.3 million yuan (1.07 million U.S. dollars) in personal income tax and business taxes during her work on the Chinese film "The Bombing." Fan and firms of which she is legal representative also have tax arrears amounting to 248 million yuan, of which 134 million yuan was evaded. The actress was ordered to pay taxes and fines worth more than 800 million yuan. And she will face criminal investigation if she fails to comply on time. Shi Zhengwen, a tax law specialist at China University of Political Science and Law, said contract fraud was an issue that has attracted strong public complaints in recent years. The punishment is severe but matches the illicit acts, Shi said, adding that potential tax evaders should be warned. "The case sends a strong warning to those who flout the tax law and is a good lesson on tax compliance to the public," said Zhang Bin, a researcher with National Academy of Economic Strategy under Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. He said public awareness on tax payment was key as China deepens reform to improve its taxation systems. People from the film and TV industry, meanwhile, said the case would promote the healthy development of the sector. Lin Yongjian, deputy head of China Television Artists Association, said literary and art circles supported the penalty. "Film stars make easy money. With the fame and wealth, they choose not to fulfill their tax obligations. It is not ok," he said. Lin said he believed the case would help promote fair and reasonable income distribution in the sector and correct wrongs in the industry. A sector-wide overhaul of exorbitant casting fees, contract fraud and tax evasion has been ongoing since late June. The State Taxation Administration said it would soon launch a new campaign to regulate tax payment in the film and TV industry. It said film and TV firms as well as relevant personnel that undergo self-examination and make remedial payments to taxation authorities before Dec. 31 will be exempt from administrative punishment and penalties. Zhong Chengxiang, head of China Literature and Art Critics Association, urged artists and entertainers to abide by laws and meet public expectations by raising their moral integrity and the artistic appeal of their work. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 20:01:16|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BIRMINGHAM, Britain, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday ruled out the possibility of a second Brexit referendum, saying the second referendum would be a "politicians' vote." "Politicians telling people they got it wrong the first time and should try again.. think for a moment what it would do to faith in our democracy," she said, referring to the "latest plan of holding a second referendum" which was called "People's Vote." "There are plenty of prominent people in British politics who want to stop Brexit in its tracks," she warned. May defended the Brexit plan proposed by her but rejected by the European Union, saying it is for a free trade deal that provides for frictionless trade in goods. "It would protect hundreds of thousands of jobs in the just-in-time supply chains our manufacturing firms rely on," the prime minister said. Britain "isn't afraid" to leave the EU with no deal, she said, adding that "resilience and ingenuity" of people will see Britain through. Pursuing "our own visions of the perfect Brexit" could lead to "no Brexit at all," she warned delegates. May said she believed "our best days lie ahead of us." She made the remarks speaking to the annual Conservative Party Conference. It also came the day as a Conservative Member of Parliament submitted a letter of no confidence in May. James Duddridge has said he made the move because the prime minister's refusal to "rip up Chequers" and Boris Johnson's "inspirational" speech on Tuesday at the conference. Johnson, an open critic of the prime minister's Brexit plan, launched a fresh attack against the Chequers plan for trade with the EU at the conference. He described it as a "cheat" that could lead to a boost for the far-right. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 20:07:23|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SOFIA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- An illegal migrant has died of exhaustion in Bulgaria near the country's border with Greece, the Interior Ministry said in a press release on Wednesday. A border patrol found five foreigners without identity documents on Tuesday at noon near the village of Siva Reka, the ministry said. Three of the people said they were citizens of Afghanistan, and the other two presented themselves as Pakistanis, the ministry said. The illegal migrants also said that they abandoned another Pakistani in a helpless condition in the forest next to the village, it said. Shortly thereafter, border police discovered the foreigner, "obviously heavily exhausted," and sent him into a hospital. However, he died on Tuesday evening, the ministry added. Bulgaria is located on a migrant route to Central and Western Europe. According to official data, the Ministry of Interior arrested 2,989 illegal immigrants in 2017. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 20:09:15|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close Photo taken on Oct. 3, 2018 shows the scene of the handover ceremony in presidential palace in Baghdad, Iraq. The new Iraqi President Barham Salih on Wednesday took over power from his predecessor Fuad Masoum in a ceremony held in Baghdad Green Zone. (Xinhua/Khalil Dawood) BAGHDAD, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The new Iraqi President Barham Salih on Wednesday took over power from his predecessor Fuad Masoum in a ceremony held in Baghdad Green Zone. A statement from the presidential office said that Masoum received Salih in his office in al-Salam Palace in the heavily fortified Green Zone in central Baghdad. During the handover ceremony, Salih praised Masoum's efforts in office in the past years, according to the statement. Salih asserted on the fact that "peaceful transfer of power in this transparent democratic form is an important step in consolidating the traditions of democracy," the statement said. Barham Ahmed Salih, 58 years old, is a veteran Kurdish politician, born in the city of Sulaimaniyah in northeastern Iraq. He was former prime minister of Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region from 2001 to 2004. Later, he became deputy prime minister of the federal government and occupied many ministerial posts in Baghdad and Erbil in the last 15 years. On Tuesday, the Iraqi parliament elected Barham Salih as the president of Iraq, who later named Adel Abdul-Mahdi as Prime Minister-designate and tasked him to form the new cabinet for the next four years. According to Iraqi constitution, the Prime Minister-designate has 30 days to put together a cabinet and present it to parliament for approval, as the parliament must approve the government program and each individual minister in separate absolute majority votes. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 20:16:04|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close KIEV, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko submitted to parliament a bill Wednesday on extending the term of validity of the "special status" law for the conflict-hit eastern region of Donbas, which expires this month, local media reported. The Interfax-Ukraine news agency said that the draft legislation was designated by Poroshenko as urgent for consideration. The armed confrontation between the Ukrainian government troops and pro-independence armed groups in the Donbas region has been underway since April 2014, and has so far claimed about 10,000 lives. In September 2014, the Ukrainian parliament approved the law on the "special status" of some areas in Donbas, increasing the economic, financial and administrative powers of local communities. The legislation with a validity term of three years was due to expire in October 2017, but it was extended for another 12 months. Earlier, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and Kurt Volker, U.S. envoy on Ukraine's crisis, urged Kiev to extend the term of validity of the "special status" law to contribute to the peaceful settlement of the conflict. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 20:23:18|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- A series of self-driving sanitation vehicles were recently unveiled in Beijing and are expected to save the workloads of sanitation workers. Co-developed by Beijing Sanitation Group and Baidu's unmanned driving platform Apollo, the seven small self-driving sanitation vehicles are designed to do sanitation work including sweeping, land washing, garbage collection and garbage transfer. Among them four models are designed for outdoor use, including in squares, parks, industrial parks and living areas. Three models are mainly used in shopping malls, airports and exhibition halls. According to Xue Zhendong, a deputy general manager at Beijing Sanitation Group, the self-driving sanitation vehicles integrate artificial intelligence, image recognition and precise positioning. "They have 'eyes' and 'brains.' The eyes refer to sensors located on the top as well as the body of the vehicle, allowing them to sense peripheral objects at 360 degrees. The brains refer to deep learning algorithm control technology, which make the optimal path plan according to the real-time environment and high-precision map," Xue said. The vehicles can also be connected with a mobile phone app to conduct regular and fixed garbage collection and transportation. "The vehicles are expected to improve the efficiency of sanitation works. On average, a single vehicle can clear 25,000 square meters of roads in an hour, equal to the workload of 10 to 20 sanitation workers," Xue said. The vehicles can be put into practical use after they get approval from relevant departments, according to Beijing Sanitation Group. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 20:24:19|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BEIRUT, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon and Greece signed agreements on Wednesday to increase cooperation in the private sectors, said a statement release by Lebanon's Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture. "The agreements aim at facilitating communication between Lebanese and Greek businessmen in addition to exchanging information and increasing investment opportunities in the two countries," the statement said. Mohamad Choucair, head of Lebanon's Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, said that ties between the two countries are strong but more measures can be taken to create partnership on different levels. "For instance, trade between the two countries is low and nothing has been done to increase it yet," he said. Choucair's remarks came during his meeting with a Greek delegation that came to Lebanon to discuss ways of strengthening economic ties between the two countries. Choucair called upon Greek businessmen to take part in infrastructure projects in Lebanon, especially now that CEDRE has allocated 12 billion U.S. dollars in support of these projects. Lebanon has secured a few months ago loans and grants from international donors at CEDRE, an international conference in support of Lebanon's development and reforms, to revamp its ailing infrastructure and bolster its economy. Choucair said that Greek businessmen can also take part in the oil and gas sector in Lebanon. Meanwhile, Georgios Katrougalos, alternate minister of foreign affairs in Greece, said that his country should cooperate with Lebanon in infrastructure projects under the framework of CEDRE. He added that the two countries must also cooperate in the tourism sector by creating a tourist route between Lebanon, Greece and Cyprus. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 20:33:18|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close THE HAGUE, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations'top court ordered Wednesday that the United States must lift sanctions on humanitarian goods and on spare parts for civil aviation imposed against Iran. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) unanimously ruled that the U.S. shall remove "any impediments arising from the measures announced on May 8 to the free exportation to Iran of medicines and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities" and spare parts necessary for the safety of civil aviation. "On humanitarian grounds, the US must remove by means of its choosing any impediment to the free exportation to Iran of goods involving humanitarian concerns," the ICJ said in its ruling. Iran had requested the ICJ to order an immediate lifting of all sanctions imposed by the United States, arguing that these "unjust and harmful" sanctions "are damaging the economy of Iran and driving millions of people into poverty". According to Iran, the U.S. violated a bilateral friendship treaty signed in 1955. Iran requested the ICJ to indicate provisional measures. The lawsuit followed the decision in May this year by U.S. President Donald Trump to quit the nuclear deal and restore sanctions on Iran. Iran started the ICJ proceedings on July 16. The ICJ had a four-day public hearing at the end of August. The ICJ has the role to settle legal disputes submitted to it by states and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorized UN organs and specialized agencies. The seat of the court is in The Hague. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 20:41:40|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close HANOI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- All members of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee (CPVCC) on Wednesday agreed to introduce CPVCC General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong as a candidate for president to replace Tran Dai Quang who died on Sept. 21, Vietnam News Agency reported. On Wednesday, the second working day of the ongoing 8th session of the CPVCC, the committee reached unanimous consensus on introducing Nguyen Phu Trong for Vietnam's National Assembly, the country's top legislature, to elect him as president at the 6th session of the 14th National Assembly. The 6th session is scheduled to be held from Oct. 22 to Nov. 20. Nguyen Phu Trong was born on April 4, 1944 in the rural district of Dong Anh, the capital city of Hanoi. He is a professor, and holds a PhD in politics with specific field of party construction. He has been a member of the CPVCC's Political Bureau since 1997. He served as chairman of the National Assembly from 2007 to 2011. He was elected as CPVCC general secretary in 2011, and re-elected as general secretary in 2016. Specifically, he has been a member of the 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th CPVCC, and a member of the 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th CPVCC's Political Bureau. Woburn, Mass., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WINE ON TAP, INC., a wholly owned subsidiary of SPO GLOBAL, INC. (OTC Pink: SPOM), (SPO or the Company) today announced it has acquired specific assets of Wine Stream Inc., including key personnel and intellectual property, licensing and franchise rights. The acquisition excludes Wine Stream Incs current Florida operations as well as the following states, Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia, Tennessee, Texas, Nevada and California. The acquisition does include all operations in Sarasota County Florida. With this acquisition, Wine on Tap adds deep industry expertise in the platform technology that will allow the Company to roll out and develop facilities throughout the United States from which to market premium wines in keg volume. The Company will be able to utilize the strategic partnerships and relationships already in place to offer the same high quality products already offered in Florida by Wine Stream. According to the Wine Institute, in 2016, 949 million gallons of Wine were consumed in the United States. We see the asset acquisition and the entry into the kegged wine industry as both an economic and environmentally solid business opportunity, said Stuart Barton, CEO of SPO Global. Offering wine in a keg ensures fresh wine throughout, prevents spoilage, waste and it eliminates the glass and trash footprint from traditional bottle usage. We are currently evaluating locations for our initial plant and have been in early discussions with licensing partners for specific territories. About SPO Global SPO Global, Inc. (SPO Global or the Company) (OTC Pink: SPOM) is a diversified holding company whose strategic plan is to acquire interests in young businesses, and provide financing, advice and guidance to assist them in realizing their potential. The companys initial subsidiary, Reflective Solutions, LTD, sells its software and consultancy across worldwide markets. SPO Global is focusing on increasing the revenue from Reflective Solutions with expansion in the North American markets. The newly formed subsidiary, Wine on Tap, Inc., will pursue the construction of a production facility and eventual sale of premium wine in keg volumes thereby lowering wholesale costs to customers and providing exact measurement services. For additional information please email stuartbardbarton@gmail.com. Company Disclaimers: As a "penny stock" company, within the meaning of federal and state securities law, Incumaker, Inc. may not avail itself of the Safe Harbor provisions as identified in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. However, SPO Global, Inc. provides the following disclaimer and warning to protect our shareholders, prospective investors and the public at large by alerting them to the risks and uncertainties involved with any investment, and the need to perform their own due diligence and assessment. Forward-Looking Statements: This press release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, such as statements relating to financial results and plans for future development activities and are thus prospective. Forward-looking statements include all statements that are not statements of historical fact regarding intent, belief or current expectations of the Company, its directors or its officers. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to control. Actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements are risks and uncertainties associated with the Company's business and finances in general, including the ability to continue and manage its growth, competition, global economic conditions and other factors discussed in detail in the Company's periodic filings with the Security and Exchange Commission. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 20:38:17|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SANAA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Shiite Houthi rebels on Wednesday released two sons of slain former President Ali Abdullah Saleh from prison, the group said in a statement carried by Saba news agency. "The sons of Ali Abdullah Saleh, Salaah and Madyan, were released upon an amnesty from the (so-called) President of the Supreme Political Council Mahdi al-Mashat (top Houthi official)," read the statement. The release came nearly ten months after Houthi fighters arrested them along with dozens of the former president's relatives following deadly clashes in the capital Sanaa that killed Saleh at the hands of Houthis. On Dec. 4, 2017, the Houthis said they killed Saleh, their once partner, after he sought peace with Saudi Arabia, the rich-oil Sunni Gulf country that led an Arab military coalition against Iranian-allied Shiite Houthi rebels. A senior Houthi source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity that the release came following a "mediation from Oman" and that the sons of Saleh would be transported by an "Omani plane to United Arab Emirates (UAE), where they would join their exiled older brother Ahmed Ali Abdullah Saleh in Abu Dhabi." Saleh's family became allied with the government of Saudi-backed exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi after Saleh broke out from alliance with Houthis in late 2017. There were no comments yet from the government on the Houthi statement. Last week, the Saudi-backed internationally recognized government said in a statement that the "Houthis prevented a United Nations plane from landing in Sanaa on Sept. 28 to transport sons of Saleh, according to an agreement to release them signed by the Houthis." Saleh's family members, most of whom were military commanders and ran the country's elite Republican Guards and Counter-terrorism Special Forces during Saleh's 33 years of rule, are backed by the United States, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. In Sept. 2014, the Houthis advanced from their stronghold Saada province in the north, storming the capital Sanaa and controlled it and other northern cities by force, including the Red Sea port city of Hodeidah. The move triggered Saudi Arabia to lead an Arab military coalition and launched an air force campaign on Yemen in March 2015 to reinstate the government of exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. The war has killed more than 10,000 Yemenis, mostly civilians, and displaced 3 million others, according to UN aid agencies. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 20:43:07|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close TRIPOLI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Libyan authorities, in cooperation with the International Organization for Migration, on Wednesday morning deported 96 illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Pakistan voluntarily to their countries. The Libyan Anti-illegal Immigration Department said in a statement that 60 migrants from Bangladesh and 36 others from Pakistan left the capital Tripoli's international airport to their countries. The deportation is part of the voluntary return program carried out by the organization, with an aim to arrange the return of illegal migrants stranded in Libya to their countries of origin. Migrant shelters in Libya are crowded with thousands of migrants who have been rescued at sea or arrested by the Libyan security services. Libya has become a preferred departure point for illegal migrants hoping to cross the Mediterranean Sea into Europe due to insecurity and chaos in the North African country following the 2011 uprising that toppled former leader Muammar Gaddafi. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 20:52:58|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CAIRO, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Egyptian police on Wednesday killed at least 15 terrorists in a shootout in North Sinai province in the northeast of the capital Cairo, official news agency MENA reported. After receiving a tip-off, the national security sector raided hideout of some terrorist elements, where they were planning attacks on security forces in the coming days ahead of the Oct. 6 anniversary that marks the Egyptian army victory in its war against Israel, the report added. Five automatic weapons, four guns, and three explosive devices, with large quantity of ammunition were seized in their possession in Arish city, the report added. Earlier this week, the Islamic State group said one of its leaders in Sinai was killed. The group's Aamaq news agency announced the death of Abu Hamza al-Maqdisi late Monday, calling him a "martyr" without saying where or how he died. North Sinai is the stronghold of terrorist groups in Egypt, most severest of which is Sinai State, an Egyptian branch of the Islamic State. In February, Egypt started the comprehensive "Sinai 2018" anti-terror campaign that killed over 330 militants and more than 30 soldiers so far. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 21:36:33|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- China will establish a withdrawal mechanism for the Yangtze River Scholar award, said the Ministry of Education in a press statement. The mechanism is included in regulations that the ministry recently made concerning the award program. The Yangtze River Scholar award, which started in 1998, is one of China's highest academic honors given to scholars from across the world. The political standards and teachers' virtues are the primary conditions for the professorship, and "are the bottom line which should not be crossed," said an official in charge of the ministry's department of personnel. Acts such as any violation of the political discipline and rules, prosecution for criminal liability, falsification, or infringement on academic virtue would lead to the enforcement of withdrawal, according to the regulations. The chair professorship requires a minimum stay of two months at the university, the official said. "Those who fail to arrive during the appointment term, cannot stay for the period, or leave the position against rules must exit." This year marks the 20th anniversary of the launch of the program. It has attracted a wide array of high-level talents at home and overseas and contributed to enhancing the quality of talent training as well as academic development. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 21:47:09|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BEIRUT, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon's General Labor Union Head Bechara Asmar urged Wednesday Lebanese companies to hire local workers instead of replacing them with foreigners, local media reported. "The country is going through a very difficult economic situation and businesses are firing employees. We should help each other in these dire circumstances and protect local employees from arbitrary dismissal," Asmar was quoted by Elnashra, an independent online newspaper, as saying. Asmar also urged Lebanese companies not to hire new foreigner employees instead of Lebanese. Since the start of the civil war in neighboring Syria, thousands of Syrian refugees moved to Lebanon prompting Lebanese businesses to replace local employees with Syrians. Hiring Syrians cost less both in salaries and in national social security compared with local employees, which led to an increase in unemployment rate among Lebanese. Ola Boutros, advisor to the Foreign Affairs Minister in charge of the Syrian refugees' dossier, said over a month ago around 270,000 Lebanese have lost their jobs after 384,000 Syrian refugees poured into the country's employment market. "Around 150,000 of those who lost their jobs used to work in the services sector," she said. The labor ministry issued in January 2017 an order allowing Syrians in Lebanon to work only in farming, cleaning and construction and businesses who violate the law will be immediately closed. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 21:53:41|Editor: mmm Video Player Close JERUSALEM, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Two Palestinians were arrested by the Israeli army on Wednesday after they crossed from the Gaza Strip to Israel, the military said. "IDF (Israel Defense Forces) troops spotted two suspects crossing the security fence from the northern Gaza Strip into Israel," a military spokesperson said in a statement. "They were apprehended near the point of crossing and were transferred to security forces for further questioning," the statement read. In a search, one of the suspects was found to have possessed a knife, the spokesperson added. The incident comes amidst a surge of protest in Gaza against the 11-year blockade imposed by Israel on the Palestinian enclave. Gazans hold daily rallies along the fence separating Gaza and Israel, burn tires and occasionally hurl explosives. Hamas-backed Gazans occasionally launch helium-filled balloons towards southern Israel to set fires in the arid farmlands. The Israeli forces have reacted to the demonstrations with fire, killing at least 180 Palestinians since the protest began on March 30. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 21:58:20|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close KIGALI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Integrated smart power grid technologies can help make electricity more accessible, reliable and affordable, especially in Africa's rural areas, experts said Wednesday at the 3rd Africa Smart Grid Forum held in Kigali, capital city of Rwanda. The Oct. 1-4 forum aims to highlight the potential of smart grid technologies as a means to accelerate sustainable access to electricity for the African people. "For Africa to achieve more reliable, accessible and efficient power systems, smart grids must be established in order to solve many of the continent's long-standing power connection challenges," said Richard Schomberg, vice-president of smart energy standardization at Electricite de France Group, a French electric utility company. Smart grids use digital communications to automate and manage the increasing degrees of complexity and requirements associated with modern power networks. Schomberg said it is time for Africa to transform power utilities by mainstreaming smart grids across the continent and even in remote rural communities. Mosad Elmissiry, senior energy advisor at the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD), said African economies should adopt smart grid technologies as new measures to bridge the electrification gap in the continent. Smart grids can play a pivotal role in the deployment of new electricity infrastructure in Africa by enabling more efficient operation and lower costs, Elmissiry said, noting that smart grids can provide many opportunities on both the supply and demand sides. African countries are currently struggling with the security of supply as power outages are frequent due to lack of smart grid technologies, according to Robby Simpson, system architect at General Electric Grid Solutions, a U.S. firm. The meeting has brought together energy industry and utilities leaders, experts, investors and development partners from across Africa and beyond. It is composed of high-level policy plenary sessions, followed by parallel technical sessions attended by international and African experts. The forum also includes an exhibition for international and continental companies and organizations providing technology solutions and institutional support to enable smart grid implementation. More than 645 million Africans do not have access to electricity and Africa loses about 4 percent of its GDP to lack of electricity, said the African Development Bank. Low access rates and lack of reliable and affordable electricity present a challenge to rapid economic development in Africa, according to the World Bank Group. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 22:03:32|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close STRASBOURG, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Estonian Prime Minister Juri Ratas defended the importance of smaller countries in the European Union (EU) and advocated digital innovation for growth in a Wednesday speech delivered at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on the future of Europe. "Allow me to express modest enthusiasm when it comes to grand institutional designs in Europe which could lead to a lesser role of smaller nations," the Estonian prime minister told members of European Parliament, who were meeting in Strasbourg for a plenary session. Ratas equated a loss of diversity within the common institutions to reduced importance of the 28-member bloc. "It is time to adopt proposals to complete the digital single market and enable digital transformation -- the world will not wait," Ratas said, urging MEPs to consider the importance of digital innovation, in which Estonia is often considered a leading country. According to the Estonian government, the Baltic nation was the first country to offer a "e-residency", providing a digital ID to anyone in the world and allowing for the opening of an online business based in Europe. The Estonian head of government underlined the importance of security in the digital realm as well. "In the world of hybrid warfare, cybercrime and fake news, security in cyberspace should come by design and should go hand in hand with emerging technologies. We need to build data integrity into systems," he said. Speaking to migration, Juri Ratas argued that the best way of stemming flows of irregular migrants was to work with third countries, and threw his support behind a new EU-Africa alliance proposal by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. The prime minister also strongly criticized internal European borders, saying "I, from the bottom of my heart, dislike borders in Europe". In a press conference with European Parliament President Antonio Tajani after his address, Ratas spoke of the need to "strengthen the European feeling and to fight populism", arguing that the European institutions had to work harder to communicate the benefits of the European system. The next European Parliament debate on the theme on the future of Europe will take place during the November plenary session and will feature Romanian President Klaus Iohannis. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 22:31:45|Editor: mmm Video Player Close NAIROBI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Kenya is considering putting in place a raft of tax incentives to spur growth of information and communication technology (ICT) manufacturers, officials said on Wednesday. Jerome Ochieng, principal secretary in the ministry of ICT, told a media briefing in Nairobi that Kenya is prioritizing the development of the ICT industry because it is an enabler for all sectors of the economy. "We are currently in talks with the ministry of industrialization and the national Treasury to reduce taxes for firms who set up ICT-related manufacturing plants in the country," Ochieng said during a CEO forum for companies implementing President Uhuru Kenyatta's Big Four Agenda on affordable housing, universal health care, food security, and manufacturing. He said two local companies are assembling laptops for use for the countryh's digital literacy project. The government is in discussion with the two computer assembling firms to support them expand their operations so that Kenya can become an ICT regional manufacturing hub, Ochieng added. He said Kenya is planning to attract global ICT manufacturing firms to move their operations to Kenya to take advantage of the large pool of skilled workers. The value of the ICT sector in 2017 was approximately 3.45 billion dollars, making its contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) to less than 5 percent of the economy's output, Ochieng said. A robust ICT industry will help to expand the digital economy, he said. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 22:43:33|Editor: yan Video Player Close KAMPALA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Uganda was hit by a nationwide power outage on Wednesday due to a system failure, the country's power company said. Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) said in a statement that the outage followed a fault on emergency transmission between its power generating house at Nalubaale Hydropower Plant in the eastern district of Jinja and Lugogo substation in the capital, Kampala. Umeme Limited, the country's main electricity distribution company, said everything is being done to restore power supply. "We have been advised by our supplier UETCL of a nationwide outage. The UETCL team are working to restore supply," Umeme said in a statement. Uganda last month experienced a blackout after four towers on the Jinja-Kampala line collapsed in Mukono due to vandalism. Manufacturers in the east African country have complained of inadequate power supply, saying it is affecting their business. Lehi, UT, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MX, the leader in actionable financial data, now provides members of Ent Credit Union, Colorados leading credit union, the ability to take charge of their finances and track their progress towards financial well-being. Powered by MXs digital money management (DMM), which collects and enriches data and then presents guiding insights that help members take smart financial action, Ents Money Insight tool allows members to aggregate accounts from other financial institutions giving them a clear view of all their finances in one place in a dynamic, visual format. Members can also easily track and categorize their spending, create budgets, manage debt and more. Ent is offering the DMM data solution to its more than 300,000 members for free, within online banking and mobile banking. Our members now have relevant, visible and timely advice and control of their finances, and the best part about it its free, said Tanan Miles, Ent's vice president of electronic banking. Its just one more way were delivering on our credit unions mission to improve our members financial quality of life. From the perspective of the customer, were basically helping people get to know their finances better than their Amazon shopping cart, said Nate Gardner, Chief Customer Officer at MX. From the perspective of the credit union, we know financial clarity and guidance are key to delighting members. The MX data platform gives Ent powerful tools that make that happen increasing member loyalty while driving profitable growth. About MX MX, the leader in actionable financial data, enables financial institutions and fintech providers to grow faster, reduce costs, and deliver exceptional customer experience. In doing so, MX is empowering the world to become financially strong. Founded in 2010, MX is one of the fastest-growing fintech providers, partnering with more than 1,800 financial institutions and 43 of the top 50 digital banking providers. For more information, visit www.mx.com . About Ent Founded in 1957, Ent Credit Union is a different kind of financial institution, committed to improving members financial quality of life and returning value through better rates and lower fees. Colorados leading credit union, Ent has more than $5.0 billion in assets, more than 300,000 members and more than 30 convenient service center locations along the Front Range. As a not-for-profit, community-chartered credit union, Ents membership is open to businesses and individuals who live, work, worship or attend school in Arapahoe, Denver, Douglas, El Paso, Fremont, Jefferson, Pueblo and Teller counties, as well as select communities in Weld and Adams counties. Ent is an Equal Housing and Equal Opportunity Lender, federally insured by the NCUA. Attachment Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 22:57:53|Editor: yan Video Player Close KIGALI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- A former chief executive officer of the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) has been arrested on charges of favoritism and receiving illegal benefits while in office, the Rwanda Investigation Bureau said on Wednesday. Alex Kanyankore, who was sacked by the bank's board last December, was arrested on Tuesday, Modeste Mbabazi, spokesman of Rwanda Investigation Bureau, told Rwanda national television RTV in an interview. More details will be given after a full investigation, Mbabazi said. Kanyankole served as head of the public company from 2013, according to media reports. During his reign, the bank underwent restructuring and split into two entities, one focusing on the commercial business and the other on financing Rwanda's developmental projects. The commercial entity was later sold to Atlas Mara Group, a pan-African financial institution. Under Kanyankole, the bank also took over the disbursement and recovery of Rwandan university student loans after reaching an agreement with the Ministry of Education. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 23:10:23|Editor: yan Video Player Close TUNIS, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The upcoming China International Import Expo (CIIE) will be a good opportunity to show the real potential of the Chinese market to Tunisian exporters, said Dhouha Mizouni Chtourou, vice president of Tunisian-Chinese Business Council in an exclusive interview with Xinhua recently. "Tunisia will be officially represented by three companies in two fields, including olive oil and handicrafts," said Mizouni. 15 other Tunisian companies, covering various fields such as plastics, packaging, electronics, international consulting and crafts, will also present at CIIE as visitors. In terms of entering the Chinese market, Mizouni believes "agribusiness remains a powerful 'workhorse' for Tunisia due to its strategic geographical location as a stepping stone in the Africa-South Mediterranean region." Mizouni said the most common Tunisian products in the Chinese market are olive oil, phosphates and marble. "By participating in the CIIE, Tunisian exporters are encouraged to enter the Chinese market, which imports all types of products with guaranteed quality and competitive prices," added Mizouni. "Chinese consumers have great concern about healthy products, so we will be careful to promote Tunisian agro-products, either in raw as vegetables and fruits, or processed such as canned goods and olive oil," Mizouni said. "Tunisia could also attract Chinese investment for several reasons, including its geographical location between the two continents Africa and Europe," Mizouni added. The trade volume between China and Tunisia reached 1.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2017, with Chinese imports from Tunisia surging 42 percent. Mizouni pointed out that CIIE is part of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative. "This exhibition will also consolidate China's relations with its partners and member countries of this initiative, who will have the opportunity to export their products to the Chinese market." CIIE, the first of its kind to be held by China in Shanghai, will be held on November 5-10. So far more than 2,800 companies from over 130 countries and regions have confirmed their participation. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 23:10:23|Editor: yan Video Player Close STRASBOURG, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- the European Parliament in Strasbourg backed a draft law that would require a reduction in greenhouse emissions by at least 40 percent by 2030 for new cars in the European Union (EU), and support accelerated market uptake of clean transport technology. The draft legislation was adopted by 389 votes to 239, with 41 abstentions in a plenary session. AMBITIOUS TARGETS AND ENFORCEMENT It increases the emissions target reduction to 40 percent, higher than the European Commission proposals for a 30 percent reduction, based on reference levels in 2021. In addition, the law would set an intermediate reduction goal of 20 percent by 2025. "Achieving the European Parliament's support for a 40 percent CO2 emissions target by 2030 was no mean feat and I am proud of the successful result achieved," said Miriam Dalli, European Parliament rapporteur on the draft law. "Equally important is the 20 percent emissions target for 2025," she added. In addition to ambitious emissions targets, the legislation would require carmakers to ensure that zero- and low- emission vehicles - ZLEVs - (electric cars or vehicles which emit less than 50g CO2/km) have a 35 percent market share of sales of new cars and vans by 2030, and 20 percent by 2025. The draft law calls on the European Commission to propose, within two years, plans for "real-world" CO2 emissions tests in the wake of 2015 "dieselgate" scandal that revealed German carmaker Volkswagen had deployed as many as 11 million cars worldwide that used misleading software that showed reduced emissions during testing. Real-world CO2 emissions tests should be functional and operating by 2023, MEPs said in their resolution. MEPs also agreed that manufacturers whose average CO2 emissions exceed the established targets will pay a fine to the EU budget, to be used for up-skilling workers affected by changes in the automotive sector. SOCIAL QUESTIONS The European Parliament also took into account the societal challenges of the transition towards zero-emission transport, and that changes to the automotive value chain would have negative social impacts, especially for automotive workers. For this reason, MEPs said, the EU should promote skill development and reallocation of workers in the sector, particularly in regions and communities most affected by the transition. MEPs also called for the support of European battery manufacturing. "This legislation goes beyond reducing harmful emissions and protecting the environment,"said Dalli, "It looks at setting the right incentives for manufacturers; it encourages investment in the infrastructure; it proposes a Just Transition for workers". KEEPING UP WITH ENERGY TRANSITION According to studies conducted by the European Parliament, the European Commission, and their partner institutions, transport is the only sector of the EU which has seen increased emissions in recent years. The European Environment Agency (EEA) figures indicate that road transport made up 72.9 percent of total greenhouse emissions by EU transport in 2016, and is responsible for 20 percent of the bloc's total emissions, as well as 78 percent of EU oil consumption in 2015. In order to meet the commitments made at COP21 Paris climate agreement in 2015, the decarbonization of the entire transport sector needs to accelerate, MEPs agreed, aiming towards zero-emission by mid-century. MEPs noted the need for European car manufacturers to adapt to the massive changes in the global automotive sector, with particular emphasis on electrified powertrains. If European carmakers engage late in the necessary energy transition, the parliamentarians stressed, they risk losing their leading role. Now that it has been given the green light by the European Parliament, ministers of European Union members will adopt their common position on Oct. 9, 2018. Negotiations with MEPs for a first reading agreement would then begin on Oct. 10. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 23:23:44|Editor: yan Video Player Close VILNIUS, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Speaking on phone while walking across the street will be banned in Lithuania, the government decided on Wednesday. Pedestrians must avoid any actions that could distract their attention from the environment and traffic situation, including using mobile devices, the government's decision reads. If the rule is violated, pedestrians will face a fine from 20 up to 40 euros. "Probably we all agree that pedestrians who are crossing the street at pedestrian crossings often don't pay enough attention to their participation in the traffic. All steps aimed at encouraging pedestrians to act more responsibly must be seen as positive," Vytautas Grasys, head of Lithuanian Road Police Service, was quoted as saying by local media. Municipal video surveillance systems at public places will help monitor how the new rules are respected, Grasys said. According to the updated road rules, the drivers will be also obliged to stop and let pass of the pedestrians who are yet to cross the street. Car drivers will be also obliged to keep at least 1 meter distance while outrunning cyclists if the car's speed is less than 50 km/h and 1.5 meter distance if the speed is over 50 km/h. Lithuania has imposed a ban on people using mobile phones at the wheel without handsfree equipment since 2002. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-03 23:23:45|Editor: yan Video Player Close NEW DELHI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Till recently, it was a taboo. But now organ donation is gradually picking up in India, with people increasingly pledging to harvest their vital body parts after their death for transplantion into persons in need. According to medical statistics, nearly half a million people die in India every year in wait for a healthy organ. Doctors say that though the first successful organ transplant was carried out 53 years ago in this country and less than 1,000 such procedures are performed every year, people mainly in urban areas are now shunning superstitions to save lives of others. "There are still traditional beliefs like giving respect to a dead body and not removing its organs that prevent families from taking a decision. But the perception is changing in urban India where people are more aware these days," says M.K. Gautam, a Delhi-based cardiologist. Organs like heart, liver and kidneys can be taken from a deceased person and replaced in a patient within four to five hours of death, according to doctors. According to the law, if an individual does not pledge to donate their organ after deaths, then the prerogative on the decision for deceased rests with the next of kin. Lack of consent within the family often leads to loss of crucial time in retrieving and harvesting the organs. Moreover, the Indian government itself started late in raising awareness about organ donation. The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) was set up only in 2014 even though the Transplantation of Human Organs Act (THOA) came into effect in 1994 to provide a legal framework to the process. It was THOA that legalized brain death, which has been one of the main reasons behind lack of consent on organ donation. After it was made legal, doctors were encouraged to urge families of a deceased to donate organs and save lives. "When I joined the profession, I saw many people wait in vain and agony for a healthy organ. Many died waiting. At that time, during the 1980s and 90s, there was no awareness about organ transplantation and neither we were fully equipped," says Dr. Gautam. "But today, with help of different organisations, we as doctors try to convince families of the deceased to donate the organs. It has been a very difficult journey but people are now less reluctant about it than before," he adds. Not just people, hospitals in the country are also not fully equipped to carry out organ transplantation. This makes the procedure an expensive and exclusive process, still the prerogative of those who can afford it. "The country only has 301 hospitals that can perform organ transplantation. This means that for approximately four million people, there is one hospital that can retrieve an organ and carry out transplantation," says Dr. Sujata Makhija, who till recently worked with one of India's leading hospital chains and now in the process of relocating to the U.S. "Lack of infrastructure prevents us from making awareness about organ transplantation a pan-India movement. We only raise awareness where it is possible for people to see for themselves that organ transplantation is being carried out in a proper manner with full respect to their loved ones," adds Dr. Makhija. Currently, in India, there are only five Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (ROTTO). But the issue is now receiving attention. Media today carries successful stories of transplantation cases, with celebrities across the world pledging to the cause promoted widely by governmental and non-governmental organisations. "I was 23 when my kidneys got damaged in a road accident. My life came to a halt as I went for dialysis three times a week. My family ran from pillar to post seeking a donor besides trying all treatments. After 11 years, one call from my doctors changed my life. A deceased person's family donated his kidneys. A year later, I am leading a healthy and regular life," says Ruchir Saxena, an MNC executive. To others, donating a close family member's organ becomes a way of seeing them come to life again through the saved person. "We were heartbroken after our 24-year-old son died in a road accident. When members of NOTTO approached us, we were too much in shock to agree immediately for donating his eyes and kidneys. But we came around in a couple of hours and today I feel happy that three people are living a healthy life because of my son. My son will live forever through them," says 58-year-old Mamta Puri, a homemaker in Delhi. But there are miles to go before organ donation becomes a part of regular medical life in India. Doctors point to challenges such as red-tapism, lengthy paperwork and providing emotional support to family of deceased that are required to encourage more people to come forward. File photo shows two cheetahs in the Masai Mara Wildlife Reserve in Kenya. (Xinhua) NAIROBI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Kenya is looking at Chinese and U.S. tourists in order to boost international arrivals in 2018, a senior government official said on Tuesday. Najib Balala, cabinet secretary for tourism and wildlife, told a media briefing in the capital of Nairobi that the country received about 1.4 million visitors in 2017. "We are projecting that increased international arrivals from China and the United States will push total tourist arrivals in 2018 to between 1.7 million and 1.8 million," Balala said. The introduction of direct flights between New York and Nairobi in October will boost American tourist arrivals into Kenya, Balala said. He said Kenya has intensified marketing campaigns in China to attract more Chinese tourists, with a goal of more than 100,000 Chinese arrivals a year in the next two years. Last year, about 70,000 Chinese tourists visited Kenya. China represents a key emerging tourism source market for Kenya that has largely been untapped, Balala said. "We want Sino-Kenya people-to-people exchanges to reach the level of bilateral cooperation in commerce and investments," he added. The official said the completion of the Chinese-built Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) that links Nairobi to Mombasa has already had a huge impact on both domestic and foreign tourists. Once the SGR is extended to western towns of Kisumu and Malaba on the Kenya-Uganda border, it will further boost the tourism sector, he said. The government is also keen to prioritize the expansion of domestic tourism because it can help to cushion the sector from volatility of international tourist arrivals, Balala said. "We want to open up domestic tourism to the western and northern region of the country which has a rich cultural heritage that is unexploited," Balala said, noting that most of the domestic tourism is now concentrated in the coastal region. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 00:22:52|Editor: yan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said here on Wednesday that the United States is terminating the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. Pompeo said at a press briefing that "I'm announcing that the U.S. is terminating the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue." The United States will see the practical impact of pulling out of the treaty, he added. Earlier Wednesday, the Hague-based International Court of Justice issued a verdict against U.S. unilateral sanctions, following U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, saying the restoration of sanctions against Iran by U.S. President Donald Trump violate the terms of the treaty between the two countries. It ordered the United States to ensure that its sanctions against Iran will not affect the humanitarian condition or threaten civil aviation safety. In response, Pompeo said that Iran is abusing the court for its own political purposes. "We're disappointed that the court failed to recognize that it has no jurisdiction to issue any order relating to these sanctions measures with the United States," Pompeo said. Pompeo also blamed Iran for threats to American missions in Iraq, days after he announced the closing of the U.S. consulate in the Iraqi city of Basra. Iran's Foreign Ministry has condemned the U.S. claim as "irresponsible," saying that such attempts to shift the blame onto others would not erase the U.S. "destructive" role in Iraq. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 01:14:15|Editor: yan Video Player Close By Maria Spiliopoulou ATHENS, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Nine in ten employees in the private sector in Greece faced worsening labor conditions in the years of the debt crisis, according to a survey carried out for the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) on the occasion of the 100th-year anniversary of its founding. The 90 percent of respondents in the poll conducted by ALCO polling firm said that in the past eight years they have suffered from reduced salaries, job insecurity and blows in their social insurance protection and working conditions, national broadcaster ERT reported on Wednesday. Some 37 percent of private sector employees said that they faced delays in the payment of their wages for at least one month in recent years. Although Greece has exited the bailout programs this August, challenges remain. The unemployment rate stands at 19 percent and the labor market faces many issues. GSEE and other labor unions urge for the reestablishment of collective labor agreements to safeguard workers' rights as well as the increase of the minimum salary in the private sector. In 2012 in the framework of the austerity measures introduced to address the Greek debt crisis the minimum wage decreased from 715 euros (824 U.S. dollars) per month to 586 euros for employees aged over 25 years and to 511 euros for youth aged up to 25. Currently according to Greek Labor ministry data some 690,000 employees in the private sector earn monthly wages up to 700 euros. The survey was conducted with a sample of 1,500 persons in May 2018. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 01:14:16|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (R) meets with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi at U.S. Department of State in Washington D.C., the United States, on Oct. 2, 2018. Mike Pompeo has met with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi to discuss bilateral ties, the State Department said here on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Liu Jie) WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has met with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi to discuss bilateral ties, the State Department said here on Wednesday. According to a statement of State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert, Pompeo met on Tuesday with the Pakistani official, following up on their Sept. 5 discussions in Islamabad on a range of bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest. During the meeting, Pompeo said the United States looked forward to working with Pakistan's new government, and discussed the importance of the United States and Pakistan working together to advance joint priorities, recognizing that bilateral cooperation was mutually beneficial and a factor for stability in South Asia. Pompeo also underscored a common goal to advance peace and security in the broader region. In particular, he emphasized the important role Pakistan could play in bringing about a negotiated settlement in Afghanistan. The top U.S. diplomat said that there was momentum to advance the Afghan peace process, and that the Afghan Taliban should seize the opportunity for dialogue. The two officials also agreed to remain engaged on these and other issues, and reiterated their desire to maintain constructive dialogue to advance shared interests. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 01:15:56|Editor: yan Video Player Close LUSAKA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Zambian government said on Wednesday that it has refunded the United Kingdom (UK) money it released for a social cash transfer scheme following allegations of fraud and corruption. Chief Government Spokesperson Dora Siliya said the money, amounting to about 2.7 million British Pounds, was refunded on Monday this week. She however told reporters during her weekly press briefing that the money did not come from government coffers but was the original money given by the UK government that had remained unutilized. The UK government as well as other donors suspended funding to the program following alleged misapplication of funds. The revelation prompted President Edgar Lungu to fire Emerine Kabanshi who was Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, a ministry which is in charge of the program. He further ordered for a forensic audit of the program. SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fastly, the leading edge cloud platform, has been named to the Forbes 2018 Cloud 100 , the definitive list of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in collaboration with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures. Fastly is honored to be recognized as one of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world by Forbes, Bessemer Venture Partners, and Salesforce Ventures, remarked Artur Bergman, CEO of Fastly. In our internet connected world, speed, and security are an integral part of a companys online identity. We are proud that Fastlys edge cloud platform helps the worlds most important brands deliver fast, secure, and scalable global online experiences to their customers, and we will continue innovating in order to power a better internet. As part of the rigorous selection process for the Forbes 2018 Cloud 100, Bessemer Venture Partners received submissions from the top cloud startups. The Forbes Cloud 100 judging panel, including top public cloud company CEOs, reviewed the data to select, score and rank the top 100 cloud companies from all over the world. The evaluation process involved four factors: market leadership (35%), estimated valuation (30%), operating metrics (20%), and people & culture (15%). For the past three years, the Cloud 100 list has identified the top cloud companies that are reshaping their respective industries, said Alex Konrad, Forbes editor of The Cloud 100. I am consistently impressed by the caliber of companies honored on the Cloud 100 list. It is an exciting time to a be a cloud company and founder. The business opportunity for cloud companies is tremendous today as capital investment, customer demand and rate of adoption continues to grow, said Matt Garratt, Managing Partner, Salesforce Ventures. Were excited to see the potential of these companies and look forward to seeing what innovative technology they deliver around the world. Each year the CEOs of The Cloud 100 and the 20 Rising Stars companies are honored at the exclusive Cloud 100 Celebration hosted by Bessemer Venture Partners , Salesforce Ventures , and Forbes . The Forbes 2018 Cloud 100 and 20 Rising Stars lists are published online at www.forbes.com/cloud100 and were featured in the September 2018 issue of Forbes magazine. About Fastly Fastly helps the worlds most popular digital businesses keep pace with their customer expectations by delivering fast, secure, and scalable online experiences. Businesses trust Fastlys edge cloud platform to accelerate the pace of technical innovation, mitigate evolving threats, and scale on demand. Founded in 2011, Fastly powers online destinations including Airbnb, GitHub, Alaska Airlines, Pinterest, Vimeo, The Guardian, and The New York Times. Learn more at Fastly.com and follow us on Twitter @fastly . Media Contact Maggie Philbin VSC for Fastly fastly@vscconsulting.com 203.394.1818 Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 01:50:46|Editor: yan Video Player Close ADDIS ABABA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- A scholar has urged African statisticians to do more to explain and sell their work to ensure their product helps governments make informed policies that can change communities and democracies for the better. Speaking to the ongoing 6th Statistical Commission for Africa (StatCom-Africa VI), on Wednesday in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, Vincent Hendricks, a professor of Formal Philosophy at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, called on statisticians to be aware of the threat to evidence-based policymaking in the era of fake news and populist politicians. The StatCom-Africa VI is being held on Oct. 1-4 under the theme: Enhancing the Capacity of National Statistical Systems to support policies for Africa's economic diversification and industrialization. "In this world we live in today of fake news you have to realize that you are the experts and not the politicians; take ownership of your data and use it not only to change your communities but also your democracies," he said. Statistics would lose the battle of ideas if data producers did not go out there to sell it, he said, adding statisticians should not only generate data but use it for the good of their communities. "Put pressure on politicians and governments by showing them the hard evidence as to why it matters; put things into perspective," said Hendricks, who is the Director of the Center for Information and Bubble Studies. "You are the ones informing democracy; you are the ones who are making sure that evidence-backed policy is not just a mystery. That is what you do. If you do not go out say it accordingly, you are going to lose that authority in this attention game and when you lose, your states lose and your populations lose." Hendricks said. Hendricks also underlined that the experts need to do more to push their governments to fund statistical development on the continent. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 01:50:47|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton speaks at a press briefing at the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, on Oct. 3, 2018. John Bolton said here on Wednesday that the United States is withdrawing from the Optional Protocol to the Vienna Convention on dispute resolution. (Xinhua/Ting Shen) WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton said here on Wednesday that the United States is withdrawing from the optional protocol for dispute resolution to the Vienna Convention. He said that the decision relates to a case brought by the Palestinians to challenge U.S. moving of its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Bolton also said that Iran is not dismantling its nuclear program; rather, it is reportedly increasing it. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 01:50:47|Editor: yan Video Player Close JOHANNESBURG, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The BRICS Future Skills Challenge is important in the bloc's cooperation in preparing the youths for the future to take part in the countries' development, said a South African senior government official on Wednesday. South Africa's Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela said this on Wednesday while touring the BRICS 2018 Future Skills Challenge and Expo in Johannesburg. "The skills displayed here shows how the future will look like. It is interesting to see the skills we have under one roof building robots and drones from scratch. It shows some teamwork with the youths working together learning from each other," said Manamela. The teams taking part in the skills challenge comprises of entrepreneurs and innovators from the five BRICS countries. The young innovators compete in areas of industrial robotics, 3D printing, drone technology, automation, cyber security and data analytics. He said that the skills challenge will prepare the youth to be ready for the 4th industrial revolution. Manamela also revealed he met the Chinese delegation and they discussed how the South African youths and lecturers can have exchange programs to learn from each other. Lebogang Letsoalo, chairperson of Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA), told Xinhua that South African youths benefit from working with innovators from technically advanced countries like China. South Africa's participation in the the skills challenge will improve the country's competitiveness and economic growth. South African youth will learn new skills by collaboration and prepare for the future of the country with skilled personnel, she added. Marcello Strehl, manager of Brazilian software company Senaj, said it's great to work with innovators from different BRICS countries monitoring the machines, making mistakes, identifying the problem and solving it. "This is not competition but a challenge to learn from each other in solving problems. New technology is the pillar of future development. We have to do more with less," he added. The BRICS 2018 Future Skills Challenge and Expo started on Monday and will end on Friday. Certificates will be given to some participants. Many companies showcased some innovations during the expo. Students from the South African universities, technical and vocational training colleges and schools attended the expo. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 01:50:49|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close A Palestinian protester uses a slingshot to hurl stones at Israeli soldiers at Erez crossing near the border with Israel, northern Gaza Strip, on Oct. 3, 2018. Israeli soldiers stationed on the border with northern Gaza Strip shot dead on Wednesday evening a Palestinian teenager during clashes with dozens of Palestinian protesters, medics said. (Xinhua) GAZA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Israeli soldiers stationed on the border with northern Gaza Strip shot dead on Wednesday evening a Palestinian teenager during clashes with dozens of Palestinian protesters, medics said. Ashraf al-Qedra, spokesman of the health ministry in Gaza told reporters that Ahmad Abu Habbel, a 15-year-old boy, was shot in the head by Israeli soldiers' gunfire in northern Gaza Strip, close to the border with Israel. Al-Qedra also said that around 25 Palestinians were injured; six of them were injured by live gunshots in the area and the others suffered suffocation after inhaling the tear gas fired by Israeli soldiers. Local media reports said that a boy was killed and 25 others were injured during clashes that erupted on Wednesday afternoon between dozens of Palestinian protesters and Israeli soldiers on the border. The high commission of the marches of return to break the Israeli blockade had earlier called for a demonstration in northern Gaza in solidarity with Palestinian refugees. Earlier Wednesday, al Qedra said in a press statement that the health ministry affirms that Ibrahim al Arouqi, 78 years old from al-Mughazi refugee camp in central Gaza Strip, was killed on Tuesday afternoon by Israeli gunshot in his back. Eyewitnesses said that Arouqi was shot when he was at home, close to the border with Israel when Israeli soldiers opened intensive gunfire at a group of Palestinian young men who broke into the border on Tuesday afternoon. Al-Qedra said that since March 30, the Israeli army shot dead 195 Palestinians and wounded 21,000 others. Since the United States President Donald Trump declared Jerusalem as the Israeli capital on December 6, the Palestinians intensified their almost daily protests against Israel in the West Bank and particularly in the Gaza Strip. Ongoing Palestinian protests and demonstrations are to continue although Egypt tried in vain to mediate to reach calm in the Gaza Strip between Hamas-led groups and Israel. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 02:21:20|Editor: yan Video Player Close KAMPALA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- At least three pupils were killed and 73 others injured after they were struck by lightning in the northwestern Ugandan district of Yumbe on Wednesday, a police spokesperson said here. Patrick Onyango, deputy police spokesperson, told Xinhua by telephone that three pupils were killed on spot, 20 critically injured while 53 others survived with minor injuries. He said the incident occurred at Mugonyo Primary School as pupils were in their classrooms. "The 20 critically injured pupils are admitted in hospital. Some 53 were treated and discharged," said Onyango. The police spokesperson urged school authorities in the country to install lightning arrestors in order to prevent such tragic incidents. Uganda National Meteorological Authority last month issued an alert about heavy rains, coupled with flooding, thunderstorms and lightning. The authority said that some mountainous parts of the country may experience landslides as the rain season enters peak. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 02:21:20|Editor: yan Video Player Close BISHKEK, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The 17th autumn meeting of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Parliamentary Assembly opened on Wednesday in the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek. Some 300 parliamentarians from 48 countries, including Britain, Germany, Russia, the United States and France, are taking part in the session that will end on Saturday. Kyrgyz President Sooronbai Jeenbekov in his welcoming remarks briefed the guests on the political and social situation and the reforms being conducted in the republic. Jeenbekov said that the deterioration of the international situation in connection with the growth in the terrorist threat highlights the need to strengthen interaction and consolidate efforts within the OSCE. "Kyrgyzstan hopes that an open and honest dialogue within the OSCE will help restore confidence among the countries for close cooperation," he said. Hosted by the Jogorku Kenesh (parliament) of Kyrgyzstan, the 2018 autumn meeting will include a parliamentary conference on "Promoting Security Dialogue in Central Asia and Beyond." It will also include a Mediterranean forum on "Geopolitics of Central Asia and the Mediterranean: Addressing Migration, Trade and Environmental Challenges." Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 02:21:21|Editor: yan Video Player Close MOSCOW, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that former Russian intelligence officer Sergei Skripal is a traitor to his motherland but Moscow has no need to poison him. "Some information sources are pushing the idea that Skripal is almost a human rights activist. He is just a spy, a traitor to the motherland," Putin said at a plenary meeting of the Russian Energy Week forum. He reiterated that Russia had nothing to do with the poisoning of the ex-spy and his daughter Yulia in the British city of Salisbury in March. According to the president, the scandal around Skripal was artificially inflated as hassles between secret services have a long history. "As it is well known, espionage, like prostitution, is one of the most important professions in the world. Nobody has managed to stop them and nobody is still able to do it," Putin said at a Q&A session. Britain has accused Russia of launching a nerve agent attack against the Skripals and identified two Russian men as the attackers. Moscow has repeatedly denied the accusation. The poisoning case triggered a diplomatic row in which Russia and some Western countries expelled a large number of each other's diplomats. The United States has also imposed massive economic sanctions against Russia over the incident. Skripal, 66, was sentenced in Russia in 2006 to 13 years in prison for cooperating with the British Secret Intelligence Service MI-6 and releasing names of Russian intelligence officers working undercover in Europe. In 2010, the former double agent was pardoned as part of a spy swap and then moved to Britain. Both the father and the daughter have survived the alleged nerve agent attack. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 02:21:21|Editor: yan Video Player Close BEIRUT, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri said Wednesday he is optimistic about forming a government soon, Lebanon's presidency website reported. "I agreed with the president on the urgency of forming a government very soon due to the difficult economic situation. There will be another meeting with President Aoun soon in this regard," said Hariri following his meeting with President Michel Aoun in Baabda Palace. Hariri also emphasized the need for a government to deal with all challenges facing Lebanon including the latest Israeli threats. Hariri has been facing various hurdles to form a 30-member national unity government over the representations of the main Christian parties, the Druze sect and the Sunni representations outside Hariri's Future Movement. Local analysts warned on several occasions against the negative repercussions of further delay in cabinet formation. Ghazi Wazne, a Lebanese independent economist, previously told Xinhua that the delay is sending a negative message to both investors and tourists. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 02:21:21|Editor: yan Video Player Close CHICAGO, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- General Motors (GM) said on Wednesday it will join forces with Honda to develop a mass-produced self-driving car. "This is the logical next step in General Motors and Honda's relationship, given our joint work on electric vehicles, and our close integration with Cruise," GM Chairman and CEO Mary Barra said in a statement. Honda will contribute approximately 2 billion U.S. dollars over 12 years to the joint project, together with a 750 million dollars equity investment in Cruise, GM's self-driving vehicle unit. GM has already been building test versions of its Cruise AV, a driverless car based on the Chevrolet Bolt EV, but without a steering wheel or pedals. "We will complement their strengths through our expertise in space efficiency and design to develop the most desirable and effective shared autonomous vehicle," said Honda's Executive Vice President Seiji Kuraishi. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 02:21:21|Editor: yan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said here on Wednesday that he is optimistic that the upcoming talks with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) will have better understandings and deeper progress. Speaking at a press briefing, Pompeo aid "I'm very happy to be going back to get another chance to continue to advance the commitment that Chairman Kim and President Trump made back in Singapore." "I'm optimistic that we'll come away from that with better understandings, deeper -- deeper progress, and a plan forward, not only for the summit between the two leaders, but for us to continue the efforts to build out a pathway for denuclearization," he said. When asked if there is any timeframe for the DPRK's denuclearization, Pompeo said "We want it fast but we're not going to play the time game." "This is a long-term problem. This has been outstanding for decades. We've made more progress than has been made in an awfully long time and, importantly, we've done so in a condition which continues to give us the opportunity to achieve the final goal," he said. Saying that the U.S. sanctions on the Asian nation will continue in place, he noted that "my efforts this week will be one more step along the way toward achieving what the U.N. Security Council has directed the North Koreans to do." U.S. State Department said Tuesday that Pompeo will travel to the DPRK for further talks concerning the country's denuclearization, and meet with DPRK's top leader, Kim Jong Un, on Sunday. Pompeo would also travel to Japan, South Korea and China on Oct. 6-8 to brief them about his visit. The DPRK on Saturday demanded the United States take steps to secure Pyongyang's trust before its denuclearization. "Without any trust in the U.S. there will be no confidence in our national security and under such circumstances there is no way we will unilaterally disarm ourselves first," DPRK's Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho told the UN General Assembly. The key to consolidating peace and security on the Korean Peninsula is to thoroughly implement the joint statement adopted at the historic summit between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump in Singapore in June, said Ri. Speaking before a meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in in New York recently, Trump announced that himself and Kim will hold a second summit "in the not too distant future." In his speech at the UN General Assembly, Trump thanked Kim "for his courage and for the steps he has taken." But he added that much work remains to be done and that the sanctions against the DPRK will stay in place "until denuclearization occurs." PASADENA, Calif., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wetzels Pretzels is a brand born from the Southern California lifestyle that has cultivated fans for more than 20 years thanks to its scratch-made pretzels, fresh lemonade and craveable Cin-a-Bitz. Building on that fan passion and the brands ability to cultivate fanatics from coast to coast, Wetzels Pretzels Vice President of Franchise Development, Doug Flaig, will be hosting exploratory meetings with qualified multi-unit operators the week of October 22nd across Austin, San Antonio and Houston. Wetzels targeted growth plans for Texas come on the heels of another banner year for the company, which included consistent, industry-leading sales growth as well being named one of the top three fastest-growing snack concepts by Franchise Times Magazine, and a Top Franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine. Beyond Wetzels Pretzels sales momentum, company leadership view Texas as a fantastic growth opportunity thanks to the enormous amount of well-trafficked large properties across the state. Wetzels Pretzels currently has more than 10 locations across the Dallas/Fort Worth area to build off of, along with locations in Houston, Corpus Christi and Austin. Major well-trafficked properties Wetzels is targeting for expansion include: San Marcos Premium Outlets Cielo Vista Mall in El Paso South Plains Mall in Lubbock Barton Creek Square in Austin Wetzels Pretzels menu items sit at a fantastic intersection of being quick, affordable snacks that are made from scratch with limited ingredients, exactly what todays consumers are looking for, said Jennifer Schuler, Wetzels Pretzels President. This brand is positioned for immediate and long-term growth thanks to operational simplicity, unit size flexibility and the corporate teams core focus on franchisee profitability. We believe there is tremendous opportunity across Texas, and look forward to partnering with operators to bring this beloved West Coast brand to life throughout the region. Beyond traditional mall buildouts, Wetzels Pretzels is able to capitalize on various nontraditional locations as the brand offers a variety of build-out options to accommodate most any space, including both baking and non-baking kiosks, as well as remote units that can supplement a traditional in-line location. Its a concept that can truly fit anywhere there is appropriate space. Those interested in learning more about Wetzels Pretzels can contact Flaig to schedule an initial discussion at 805.616.9799 or doug@wetzels.com . Alternatively, operators who are looking to expand or diversify their holdings can visit Wetzels Pretzels franchise site . About Wetzel's Pretzels Armed with a vision and a tasty recipe for soft pretzel perfection, Bill Phelps and Rick Wetzel opened the first Wetzel's Pretzels bakery in Redondo Beach, Calif., in 1994. Long lines of hungry customers soon formed, attracted by mouth-watering soft pretzels that were hand-rolled, baked fresh and served hot from the oven. As word spread about these golden-on-the-outside pretzels, the company added additional offerings to its menu. Today, Wetzel's Pretzels has grown to more than 340 fresh bakeries across the United States and around the world, including premier locations at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. Every Wetzel's Pretzels bakery adheres to the original vision of its founders; that each super-premium pretzel will be crafted from fresh dough and baked in-store consistently throughout the day, to ensure a delicious offering for each consumer, regardless of when the craving for a pretzel strikes. For additional information on Wetzel's Pretzels or franchise opportunities, please visit the website , call (626) 432-6900, "Like" them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter and Instagram . Media Contact: Josh Levitt Canvas Blue for Wetzels Pretzels 949.215.1438 JLevitt@canvasblue.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/288095e7-1033-4f86-b0c8-c297aa8c4d05 Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 02:21:21|Editor: yan Video Player Close ABUJA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Nigeria is ready to partner with relevant stakeholders in increasing bio-energy production in order to improve the nation's bio- economy, said the country's biotechnoloy development agency on Wednesday. Such effort was necessary to meet the huge energy need in the country, Alex Akpa, acting director-general of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) said in Abuja, Nigeria's capital. He made the announcement at a round-table on exploring investment opportunity in biotechnology and bio-energy development. The director told his audience that the country would intensify effort through biotechnology research and development to boost bio-energy production. The agency has mandate to promote biotechnology activities in Nigeria, he added, noting that it has its bio-resources development center across 30 states of the federation. Earlier, Talson Bege, general manager in charge of renewable energy development at Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, said the organization would partner with NABDA in production of bio-fuel and bio diesel. He said the organization would partner with NABDA in mass produce of cassava, sugar cane and palm oil to generate bio-energy. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 02:53:53|Editor: yan Video Player Close BUDAPEST, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The European Parliament backed a reform of the VAT (Value Added Tax) system in the European Union (EU), proposing a maximum rate of 25 percent by adopting the Szanyi report on Wednesday, Hungarian rapporteur Tibor Szanyi said here in a statement. "At today's plenary session, the European Parliament adopted the Szanyi report on the VAT rates in the framework of the final VAT system by a large majority (536 yes, 87 against, 41 abstentions)," Szanyi declared in the statement. According to studies, EU countries lose up to 50 billion euros (57 billion U.S. dollars) to cross-border value-added tax fraud every year, the European Parliament announced on its official site. "Through the voting, Members of European Parliament (MEP) supported drive of the European Commission, while proposing to establish a maximum VAT rate of 25 percent, dispute resolution mechanisms, a system to automatically notify changes to VAT rules in different member states, and an information portal through which to quickly obtain accurate information on VAT rates across the EU," read a European Parliament statement. According to the statement, during the debate which preceded the vote, rapporteur Jeppe Kofod (S&D, DK) said, "We currently have a patchwork of VAT systems in Europe full of loopholes and black holes. This has led to a growing loss of VAT revenue (VAT gap). With the reforms on the table, we can reduce the VAT gap by 41 billion euros (46 billion U.S. dollars) per year and ease the administrative costs for companies by 1 billion euros (1,15 billion U.S. dollars) per year." The statement quoted rapporteur Tibor Szanyi (S&D, HU) as saying that "completing the reform of the VAT system is fundamental for supporting EU business. The current system is simply not fit for the globalized world of today. The reforms reduce discrimination between member states while maintaining flexibility, promote SMEs, and support the social and environmental dimensions." Szanyi also underlined: "The Hungarian system with 27 percent is quite unfair because high taxation leads to poorer consumers contributing disproportionately much more to the budget, spending a relatively higher portion of their income on daily consumer goods." The proposed improvements to the Commission's proposals will now be passed on to the Council, which will then be tasked with adopting the legislation. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 02:53:53|Editor: yan Video Player Close GENEVA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe is launching a campaign to protect 1.4 million people at high risk of cholera with oral vaccination, as part of its efforts to control the outbreak of the disease, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday. With the WHO's help, Zimbabwe declared the immunization drive in the country's capital Harare earlier last month, in which the vaccines would be sourced from the global stockpile funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. The campaign will be rolled out in two rounds, focusing on the most heavily affected suburbs in Harare and Chitungwiza, which is 30 km southeast of the capital city. To ensure longer-term immunity to the population, a second dose of the vaccine will be provided in all areas during a second round to be implemented at a later stage. "The current cholera outbreak is geographically concentrated in the densely populated suburbs of Harare," said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the WHO's regional director for Africa. "We have a window of opportunity to strike back with the oral cholera vaccine now, which along with other efforts will help keep the current outbreak in check and may prevent it from spreading further into the country and becoming more difficult to control," Moeti said. Meanwhile, the WHO will also provide cholera supplies of oral rehydration salts, intravenous fluids and antibiotics sufficient to treat 6,000 people. Zimbabwe has experienced frequent outbreaks of cholera, with the largest outbreak occurring from August 2008 to May 2009 and claiming more than 4,000 lives. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 02:53:53|Editor: yan Video Player Close ADDIS ABABA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Wednesday vowed to sustain ongoing reforms as the country's ruling coalition commenced its congress meeting. Ethiopia's ruling coalition - Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), on Wednesday commenced the 11th congress in Hawassa city under the theme "National Unity for All Rounded Prosperity." Ahmed, who revealed that the congress will deliberate on issues that sustain the achievements gained over the past few months in the socioeconomic and political areas, also stressed that reducing unemployment, enhancing production capacity, improving living standard of the people, and ensuring rule of law as the top priorities of the congress in its latest meeting, state news agency ENA reported. The premier, who is also chairman of the ruling coalition, called on Ethiopians to collaborate for the success of the reform. Ahmed stressed that the leadership should consider the people as the source of power so as to ensure the development of the country. The coalition's 11th Congress is historical as it comes at a time when "we are into a course of change," state affiliated FBC quoted Ahmed as saying. Ahmed further stressed that the ruling coalition will endeavor to sustain the reform by integrating young leaders with the experienced ones. "If we want to pass a prosperous nation to the next generation, we should join hands regardless of race, ethnicity, and religion as well as avoid robbery and political sabotage," the PM said. The ruling coalition's congress meeting came amid ethnic-based clashes that are currently challenging the east African country's recent positive developments. On Tuesday, UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN-OCHA) disclosed that more than 70,000 people have fled their homes due to communal violence in western Ethiopia's Benishangul Gumuz regional state. Attacks late September also drove more than 15,000 people to flee and seek refuge in schools and other public facilities across Addis Ababa. Amid the increasing conflicts, Ahmed had last week urged Ethiopians from all walks of life to maintain the long-standing peace and togetherness, so as to avoid misunderstanding that lead to conflicts. EPRDF is a coalition of four parties that are Oromo Democratic party (OPD), the Amhara Democratic Party (ADP), the Tigrayan People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and the Southern Ethiopian People's Democratic Movement (SEPDM). The EPRDF Council elected Ahmed as its new chairperson in March 2018, who eventually was appointed as Ethiopia's Prime Minister following the resignation of former PM Hailemariam Desalegn, who resigned following crippling strike in different parts of the country. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 03:09:12|Editor: yan Video Player Close BANJUL, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Outgoing Chinese Ambassador to The Gambia Zhang Jiming on Wednesday bid farewell to Gambian President Adama Barrow as his mission comes to an end in Banjul. "It is a sad moment with mixed feelings. President Barrow and I have reviewed what had happened in the past two years of our bilateral relations and we were satisfied with the achievements and progress of our levels of cooperation and relations," he told reporters at State House after a closed-door meeting with the president. He lauded the support given by president Barrow to the China-Gambia relations and assured that the Chinese side has attached great importance to the ties. "The Chinese side is also very pleased with the progress in the past two years of the bilateral relationship. We are very confident, on the basis of the one-China policy and also on the basis of mutual respect, mutual benefit, and equality, that our friendship will grow from strength to strength." he said. Ambassador Zhang is the first Chinese diplomat to serve in The Gambia since the resumption of bilateral diplomatic ties in 2016. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 03:09:12|Editor: yan Video Player Close LUSAKA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Zambian Vice-President Inonge Wina on Wednesday urged leaders in the southern African region for timely intervention to address early childhood education. The Zambian vice-president said governments in the region stand to lose if they do not invest in children's early years of life. In a keynote address delivered at a World Bank-sponsored conference on nutrition and early childhood education in Maseru, Lesotho, the Zambian vice-president said the delay by governments to intervene in early childhood education could result in greater damage to numerous lives of children. Children, she said, must be given the opportunity to survive, thrive and transform into better citizens, according to a statement released by her office. According to her, the holding of the conference has come at the right time as the region was prioritizing investment development. She further said Zambia has come up with various programs to secure early childhood nutrition with a view of promoting the personal development of children and economic growth. Meanwhile, the World Bank says only an integrated approach could help solve the malnutrition problem in the region. In remarks during the start of the conference, Paul Noumba Um, the World Bank Director for Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe, said the bank will help countries in the region address the issue of child nutrition and early childhood education. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 03:09:12|Editor: Lu Hui Video Player Close U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks during a press briefing in Washington D.C., the United States, Oct. 3, 2018. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said here on Wednesday that the United States is terminating the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. (Xinhua/Liu Jie) WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said here on Wednesday that the United States is terminating the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran, after the UN's top court ruled that Washington lift sanctions on Tehran. Pompeo said at a press briefing that "I'm announcing that the U.S. is terminating the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue." Earlier Wednesday, the Hague-based International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a verdict against the U.S. unilateral sanctions, following U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Saying that the restoration of sanctions against Iran by U.S. President Donald Trump violate the terms of a 1955 Treaty of Amity between the two countries, it ordered the United States to ensure that its sanctions against Iran will not affect the humanitarian condition or threaten civil aviation safety. It ordered Wednesday that the United States must lift sanctions on "medicines and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities" and on spare parts necessary for the safety of civil aviation imposed against Iran. Iran had requested the ICJ to order an immediate lifting of all sanctions imposed by the United States, arguing that these "unjust and harmful" sanctions "are damaging the economy of Iran and driving millions of people into poverty," and that the U.S. side had violated a bilateral friendship treaty signed in 1955. The lawsuit followed Trump's decision in May this year to quit the nuclear deal and restore sanctions on Iran. Iran started the ICJ proceedings on July 16. Iran's Foreign Ministry welcomed the ICJ ruling, saying it proves "Iran's righteousness and U.S. illegitimate and oppressive sanctions," and Washington is isolated further due to its "wrong" policies vis-a-vis other independent countries. Pompeo said that Iran is abusing the court for its own political and propaganda purposes. "We're disappointed that the court failed to recognize that it has no jurisdiction to issue any order relating to these sanctions measures with the United States," Pompeo said, noting ran's claims under the treaty were "absurd." He added that the United States would work to ensure its provision of humanitarian assistance to the Iranian people. The treaty once helped establish economic relations and consular rights between the two nations. Pompeo once again blamed Iran for the current security threat to the U.S. missions in Iraq. "Our intelligence in this regard is solid. We can see the hand of the Ayatollah and his henchmen supporting these attacks on the United States," he said. The U.S. State Department announced on Friday that it has decided to place its consulate in the Iraqi city of Basra on "ordered departure," citing increasing security threats from Iran. Minutes later, Pompeo said that there were increasing threats to U.S. personnel and facilities in Iraq over the past several weeks, which he claimed came from the Iranian government, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force and related militias. Pompeo threatened that the United States will "respond promptly and appropriately" to any attack on Americans or U.S. diplomatic facilities by Iranian forces. The consulate in Basra in the southern part of Iraq is one of three U.S. diplomatic missions in the war-torn country. Iran's Foreign Ministry has condemned the White House claim as "irresponsible." Such attempts to shift the blame onto others would not erase the U.S. "destructive" role in Iraq, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qasemi was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency. Washington has slapped a number of sanctions on Tehran after Trump announced the U.S. withdrawal from the landmark Iran nuclear deal despite strong opposition from the other signatories to the deal, namely Britain, France, Germany, Russia and China. Trump said recently that the United States will impose "tougher than ever" sanctions on Iran after the punitive actions against the country slated for November this year. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 03:09:12|Editor: yan Video Player Close SARAJEVO, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Members of Bosnia and Herzegovina's (BiH) State Investigation and Protection Agency (SIPA) arrested four people and confiscated one tonne of tobacco at several locations on Wednesday. Acting on the command of Court of BiH, SIPA members raided five locations, objects and movable properties in Tuzla and Lukavac, cities located some 120 km northeast of the capital Sarajevo, and Vitez, a city located some 75 km northwest, a SIPA statement said on Wednesday. During the raid, SIPA policemen found and temporarily seized objects that may serve as evidence in the criminal offense of "Organized Crime", referring to Article 250 in conjunction with the criminal offense of "Unauthorized Traffic of Excise Goods". "One tobacco cutter, some 113,45 kg of cut tobacco, some 1,400 kg of fabricated tobacco, some 2,000 boxes of 'RAQUEL' blue slims cigarettes without excise stamps, and a bigger amount of money for which there is a suspicion that it is being earned by committing criminal offense" was confiscated in the action, the press statement added. In addition, SIPA members found a mobile phone, documentation, and automatic gun "Z" of 6.35 mm caliber with four bullets. The Court of BiH ordered four suspects to be deprived of their liberty and to be examined in SIPA premises. The investigation showed that suspects, in a fraudulent and unlawful way, managed to get large volumes of tobacco, which they further distributed on the illegal market. Taxes for 1 kg of tobacco in legal sale in BiH amount to some 100 KM (58.9 U.S. dollars), which means that suspects damaged the BiH budget by some 100,000 KM (58,900 U.S. dollars). Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 03:55:49|Editor: yan Video Player Close MOSCOW, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- A Russian helicopter crashed in Kostroma region near Moscow on Wednesday, killing three people, local media reported, citing emergency authorities. The helicopter crashed at around 6:40 p.m. Moscow time (1540 GMT) in a forest near a village and burned up. The brand and ownership of the chopper as well as the identity of victims are unclear. The flight was not registered and authorized. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 03:55:49|Editor: yan Video Player Close OSLO, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Norway along with eight other countries and the European Union (EU) signed on Wednesday an international agreement to prevent unregulated and illegal fishing in the central Arctic Ocean, the Norwegian government announced. "Unregulated illegal fishing is a major problem that weakens fish stocks worldwide. We need more of this type of agreements because it contributes to sustainable oceans and combating unregulated and illegal fishing," Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg was quoted as saying in a statement. Signatories of the agreement are Norway, Russia, the United States, Canada, China, Iceland, Japan, South Korea, the EU and Denmark in respect of Greenland and the Faroe Islands. The agreement includes an international sea area that is larger than the Mediterranean and it commits the participants to refrain from commercial fishing in the international part of the Arctic Ocean without binding regulations being in place. Although most of the year large areas of the area are covered by ice, a significant reduction of ice is expected in summer in the years to come, the Norwegian government's statement said. "If fish stocks migrate into these areas in the future, we are prepared. This is the precautionary principle in practice. The agreement is unique because it resolves a problem before it occurs, which is rare in international cooperation," said Norwegian Minister of Fisheries Harald T. Nesvik. The agreement, which was reached in 2017, was signed Wednesday in Ilulissat, Greenland, according to Danish newspaper The Copenhagen Post. CALGARY, Alberta, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LaSanta Botanicals Ltd. (the Company or LaSanta) is pleased to announce that it has completed a non-brokered private placement offering of 10.7 million units (Units) at a price of C$0.60 per Unit, for gross proceeds of approximately C$6.4 million. Each Unit consists of one common share (a Common Share) and one-half common share purchase warrant. Each whole warrant (Warrant) is exercisable into one Common Share at an exercise price of C$0.90 per share and has an expiry date that is 24 months from the issue date. LaSanta intends to use the net proceeds of the private placement to advance the Companys cannabis cultivation and extraction facilities in Colombia and for general working capital purposes. Since its launch in late 2017, LaSanta has obtained licenses from the government of Colombia to cultivate psychoactive and non-psychoactive cannabis, fabricate and export cannabis extracts and trade in cannabis genetics. The Company has assembled a strong leadership team in Canada and Colombia that includes individuals with expertise in cultivation, pharmaceutical manufacturing and medical research. Over the next 12 months, LaSanta plans to continue development of its initial cultivation project, building out capacity to produce 36,000 kilograms of dried cannabis flower per year by 2020, which will be processed in a state-of-the-art, GMP-compliant extraction facility. LaSanta operates more than 20 hectares of prime agricultural land north of the capital city of Bogota. The land base includes a 12-hectare farm that was formerly used for organic tomato cultivation and is ideally situated for cannabis production due to its high elevation (2,100 metres), powerful solar radiation and low relative humidity. The farm has approximately 15,000 square metres of operating greenhouse and the Company plans to develop a further 18,000 square metres of cultivation space over the next 12 months. ABOUT LASANTA BOTANICALS LaSanta is a pharmaceutical company with management in Canada and Colombia and is licensed in Colombia to cultivate cannabis and manufacture and export cannabis extracts and genetics. The Company is combining agricultural and scientific expertise with product branding and distribution know-how to service legal cannabis markets in Colombia and around the world. LaSanta produces low cost, premium-quality, organic medical cannabis using craft growing, all-natural principles. The Company has a world-class genetic bank and has partnered with a leading Colombia university to perform independent laboratory testing of its extracts to ensure patients have access to a standardized, safe and consistent product. CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS This news release contains forward looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "objective", "ongoing", "may", "will", "project", "should", "believe", "plans", "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements and information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the use of proceeds of the private placement, the development of the Companys cultivation projects, and general market conditions. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements and information are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements and information because the Company cannot give any assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward looking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those that are currently contemplated by these statements depending on, among other things, risks relating to future legislative and regulatory developments involving cannabis; inability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favourable terms; the ability to access, hire and retain employees; and the cannabis industry in Colombia generally. The Company cautions that the foregoing list of risks and uncertainties is not exhaustive. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statement or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 03:55:49|Editor: yan Video Player Close RABAT, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Moroccan energy minister said on Wednesday that his country will invest more than 40 billion U.S. dollars in the energy sector by 2030. Aziz Rebbah, Moroccan Minister of Energy, Mining and Sustainable Development, made the announcement on the sidelines of the ongoing conference on Solar Power and Chemical Energy Systems (SolarPACES) held in Casablanca, largest city in Morocco. Of the total investment budget, 30 billion dollars will be dedicated to renewable energy projects, Rebbah said. These investment projects represent great opportunities for the national, regional and international private sector, he added. The minister also highlighted the increased demand for energy in the North African kingdom, saying its overall consumption of primary energy amounted to 20.8 million tons in 2017, with 55.9 percent from oil and 25.5 percent from coal. Renewable energy, such as wind, hydroelectric and solar power, contributed 5.8 percent of consumption in 2017, compared to only 2.6 percent in 2002, he noted. Morocco aims to produce 42 percent of its electrical power from renewable energy by 2020 and 52 percent by 2030. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 03:55:49|Editor: yan Video Player Close MOSCOW, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday signed into law a bill on raising the retirement age following months of debates and concessions. The new legislation will gradually extend the retirement age to 65 from 60 for men and to 60 from 55 for women starting 2019. It allows mothers of multiple children to retire before the age of 60. People to retire in the next two years under the old legislation can get their pension six months before the new retirement age. The law also criminalizes those who fire or refuse to hire pre-retirement people. The pension reform bill was passed by the lower house of the parliament on Sept. 27 and by the upper house earlier on Wednesday. The initial version of the bill triggered protests across the country and President Vladimir Putin in a televised speech on Aug. 29 proposed several amendments to cushion the impact of the reform. Russia faces a gradual decline in its native people and an aging population, which could lead to a labor shortage and heavy financial burdens. In addition to raising the retirement age, the Russian government has rolled out measures to encourage births. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 03:55:49|Editor: yan Video Player Close MAPUTO, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Mozambique's oldest and top university, University Eduardo Mondlane (UEM), is going through a financial crisis affecting its operations, revealed by the university on a meeting with different partners to present its plan for the coming 10 years (2018-2028) on Wednesday in Maputo. "Financial potential continues beyond our capacity, every year the university operates with a deficit between 4 and 18 percent for goods and services," said the dean of the university Orlando Quilambo. The dean told participants from public and private sectors that 70 percent of the university's funds come from the state, and 10 percent is funded by international partners, while the university's own income sources cover the remaining percentage. According to Quilambo, the university has been seeking alternatives to meet its financial deficit and to improve the situation. UEM once holds the 26th position as one of the 100 best universities in Africa, but recently it was downgraded to 106, according to the Webometrics Ranking of World Universities. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 03:55:49|Editor: yan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton said here on Wednesday that the United States is withdrawing from the Optional Protocol to the Vienna Convention on dispute resolution. Speaking at a White House press briefing, Bolton said that "the president has decided that the United States will withdraw from the optional protocol on dispute resolution to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations." "This is in connection with a case brought by the so-called State of Palestine naming the United States as a defendant, challenging our move of our embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem," he said. The protocol, with 29 signatories and 71 parties, entered into force in 1964. The United States was also a participant of it. "I'd like to stress, the United States remains a party to the underlying Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, and we expect all other parties to abide by their international obligations under the convention," he said. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 04:26:33|Editor: ZX Video Player Close KIEV, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian officials and experts said on Wednesday that they see ample opportunities for Ukraine's business cooperation with China. Speaking with Xinhua correspondent during a Chinese-Ukrainian business forum, Andriy Demchuk, the head of the investment department of the Ukrainian Economic Development and Trade Ministry, said that Kiev sees China as one of "the most powerful and the most promising" potential investors into Ukraine. "There are several major industries of particular interest -- infrastructure projects, green energy projects, and the digital development of Ukraine," Demchuk said. He noted that Kiev is interested in pushing forward cooperation with Chinese companies as they are bringing new technologies and know-how to Ukraine. Iryna Nikorak, the head of Ukrainian association of Belt and Road cooperation "Silk Link", said that the strengthening of business cooperation between Ukraine and China is win-win for both sides. Chinese companies could benefit from Ukraine's growing market and business-friendly environment, offering in exchange their vast international experience in implementing projects in agriculture, infrastructure and energy, Nikorak said. Currently, Chinese and Ukrainian companies are implementing joint projects in Ukraine, bringing positive changes in the country's economy, she added. "New jobs are being created and taxes are being paid to the Ukrainian budget by the Chinese companies," Nikorak told Xinhua. Nikorak voiced her hope that the first China International Import Expo (CIIE), which is scheduled to be held in Shanghai in November, will give a powerful impetus to the development of partnership between Chinese and Ukrainian business communities. Sergiy Popov, a partner at the "KPMG-Ukraine" company that provides assistance to Chinese business people working in Ukraine, said he is also optimistic about the prospects of business cooperation between China and Ukraine. Although there are still some challenges for doing business in Ukraine related to administrative barriers, more and more Chinese companies are interested in either entering the Ukrainian market or expanding their presence, Popov said. "Ukraine is moving in the right direction. Today, those Chinese companies that are determined to do business or implement projects in Ukraine receive all the necessary permits and receive support from the government agencies," Popov told Xinhua. The Chinese-Ukrainian business forum was organized by the "Silk Link" and the "KPMG-Ukraine" to help Chinese companies better understand the specific features of doing business in Ukraine. The event brought together Ukrainian government and parliament members, experts and representatives of Chinese and Ukrainian business communities. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 04:57:25|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May dances to the stage to give a speech during the Conservative Party annual conference 2018 in Birmingham, Britain on Oct. 3, 2018. British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday ruled out the possibility of a second Brexit referendum, saying the second referendum would be a "politicians' vote." (Xinhua/Han Yan) LONDON, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- British Prime Minister Theresa May stole the show as she brought the four-day Conservative Party Conference to a close Wednesday in Birmingham. A year ago everything that could go wrong did go wrong, with May struggling to make her speech because of a throat infection, and suffering of the platform backdrop falling apart. Dancing onto the stage to the tune of Swedish pop group ABBA's hit "Dancing Queen", May mocked herself, jokingly saying if she lost her voice it was because she had been up half of the night super gluing the stage set. Though Labour MP Angela Rayner described the dance with the hashtag cringe, Scottish National Party MP Joanna Cherry said May's dance was "an affront to my favorite song". Media commentators, usually ultra-critical of leaders' speeches, hailed her plucky performance and her speech. "The best speech I've ever seen May deliver," said one political writer, while another said: "Best speech of May's premiership. Ends conference on a high, cements her position as leader. But nothing has changed. The Brexit reckoning is delayed." The Guardian's summary was that political commentators had generally been very positive, with some thinking it's her best yet. Although, added the Guardian, there is quite a lot of skepticism about whether she can deliver. In her speech, May promised to deliver the Brexit the British people had voted for and there would be no referendum or people's vote -- laid into the prospect of a Labour government led by its leader Jeremy Corbyn. She announced local councils would be free to borrow as much as they wanted too for a massive social house building program. She also threw in that a decade of austerity was finally over for Britain. The auditorium packed with Conservative Party loyalists gave her a standing ovation before heading home with a message in their ears that Britain must remain united as it plans its life away from the European Union (EU). Political opponents, however, were not as enthused as Conservative supporters of May. Labour's Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell, said: "Theresa May's claim that austerity is over is a con. If the Prime Minister wants to back up her words with action, Philip Hammond should announce immediately that the cuts scheduled for the next four years will be cancelled." "If he cannot, or will not, then Theresa May's announcement today was not just empty -- it was clearly a deceitful attempt to trick the public." Ian Lavery, chair of the main opposition Labour Party, said: While the country is crying out for real change, all Theresa May and her party offer are pinched ideas and tinkering around at the edges, relying on petty attacks to cover up their lack of vision." "Austerity is not an economic necessity. It is a political choice made by the Conservatives to hack away at our public services and communities, leaving workers worse off while gifting huge tax cuts to big business. And as long as Britain has a Conservative prime minister, we'll never see an end to austerity." Vince Cable, leader of the minority Liberal Democrats said: "As somebody who takes dancing seriously, I was delighted to see Theresa May show that she is developing her new hobby. But she was dancing on the head of a pin, confronted by an audience full of people plotting to oust her." Cable said that May said the Conservatives must be a party for the whole country, adding "yet she has overseen widening divisions in our society. Trapped by the rabid ideologues of the Conservative right-wing, Mrs May has been driven to illiberal extremes on Brexit, welfare and immigration." The Local Government Association which represents hundreds of town halls and city halls, described her decision to lift the borrowing cap for building houses as fantastic. Its chairman Lord Porter said: "Our national housing shortage is one of the most pressing issues we face and it is clear that only an increase of all types of housing, including those for affordable or social rent, will solve the housing crisis." Away from politics, the Confederation of British Industry director general Carolyn Fairbairn, said: "The Prime Minister's unambiguous call to back business is welcome. Unity in politics can be matched by unity between government and business. Championing a pro-enterprise economy is the only way to show the world that Britain is a fantastic place to create the products and services that power growth." "A new relationship with Europe based on the Chequers model with frictionless trade has strong business support. The Prime Minister has stood her ground, resisting the fiction that a Canada-style deal works for jobs. Now politicians should support her to get a deal -- and the critical withdrawal agreement -- over the line." "Brexit must not suck the oxygen out of domestic policy. Here too there will be support from firms large and small. A renewed approach to housing and education will lift productivity and improve people's lives," added Fairbairn. James Forsyth, political editor of the Spectator magazine and a columnist at the Sun newspaper said: "May delivers one of her best speeches, and will send activists home in better heart than they expected this morning." But he added that with May facing a crucial meeting of the European Council in two weeks, Brexit will soon reassert itself. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 05:35:48|Editor: yan Video Player Close TUNIS, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- An army soldier was killed and two others wounded by the explosion of a landmine in Tunisia's western province of Kasserine, the Defense Ministry said Wednesday. Mohamed Zekri, the ministry spokesman, said the explosion took place when a military unit was on routine patrol as part of the fight against terrorist threats. "Two soldiers escaped. One was hit on the back and the other was hit in the left leg," said Zekri. The Tunisian security authorities have warned for years against the armed extremist groups in Kasserine, as mountain ranges there serve as a suitable shelter for terrorists. Dozens of security troops and civilians have been targeted, by direct attacks, landmine blasts or ambushes. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 05:52:54|Editor: yan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Senate on Wednesday passed a rare sweeping bipartisan package of bills aimed to combat the country's opioid epidemic and sent it to the White House for President Donald Trump's signature. The final vision of the legislation was passed by a vote of 98 to 1 in the Senate, with only Republican Senator Mike Lee from Utah opposing it. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said on the Senate floor on Wednesday that the package will "deliver critical resources to establish opioid-specific recovery centers," and "will help law enforcement stop the flow of opioids across borders and increase safeguards against over-prescription." The House overwhelmingly passed its version of the bill last week by a vote of 393 to 8. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 05:52:54|Editor: yan Video Player Close RABAT, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The energy chief of the Arab League (AL) said on Wednesday that the rate of access to electricity in the Arab world has exceeded 86 percent. Jamila Yousef Matar, director of energy management for the League of Arab States, made the announcement during his presentation at the ongoing 11th Arab Energy Conference held in the Moroccan city of Marrakech. However, she highlighted a wide disparity in the rate of connection to the electricity network among Arab nations. Access to electricity has reached 100 percent in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, while it remains low in other nations, Matar said. The demand for electricity is growing rapidly in the Arab world, at a annual rate of 5 to 8 percent, she noted. The AL energy chief also presented the results of the study on the integrated electricity supply system for the power grids of the Arab countries. The Arab Common Electricity Market project will enter the new phase next year, with annual economic revenues estimated at 127 billion U.S. dollars by 2038. In 2017, 14 Arab countries signed in in Egypt's capital Cairo a Memorandum of Understanding to create an Arab common market for electricity. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 06:03:20|Editor: yan Video Player Close DAMASCUS, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- A U.S. aircraft on Wednesday brought Marine forces to the battle against the last pocket of the Islamic State (IS) in Syria's eastern province of Deir al-Zour, a war monitor reported. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the aircraft landed in the vicinity of the town of Hajin, one of the last IS-held towns in the eastern countryside of Deir al-Zour. It said the Marine forces will participate in the battle alongside the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) against IS militants. According to the London-based watchdog, the U.S. move aims to intensify the anti-IS military campaign on the eastern bank of Euphrates River. Since the battle was launched on Sept. 10, the IS militants have been well fortified with landmines and suicide bombings, leading to slow advance of the Kurdish-led SDF backed by the U.S.-led airstrikes. The pro-rebel monitor also said 211 IS militants, along with 113 SDF fighters and allied militiamen, have been killed in the fighting since Sept. 10. The Syrian army has cleared the IS from large swathes of areas in Deir al-Zour, while the SDF is attempting to consolidate positions in the northern and northeastern countryside of the province. Recent reports said the IS-controlled Syrian territory has shrunk to one percent from almost half of the country a couple of years ago. The Syrian government has slammed these operations in Syria as "illegal" since the U.S.-led coalition entered the Syrian war in 2014, saying the United States has been trying to establish presence in eastern Syria through supporting the Kurdish-led SDF, in order to secure its interests in the country. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information, contact: Sasha Sekpeh O-I Investor Relations (567) 336-5128 alexandra.sekpeh@o-i.com O-I Announces Third Quarter 2018 Earnings Conference Call and Webcast PERRYSBURG, Ohio (Oct. 3, 2018) - Owens-Illinois, Inc. (NYSE: OI) has scheduled its third quarter 2018 conference call and webcast for Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2018, at 8 a.m. EDT. The Company's news release for the third quarter 2018 earnings will be issued after the market closes on Tuesday, Oct. 30. What: O-I Conference Call and Webcast Earnings presentation materials will also be posted on the O-I website, www.o-i.com/investors , when the earnings news release is issued. When: Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2018, at 8 a.m. EDT Where: http://investors.o-i.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=88324&p=irol-calendar The webcast will be archived at www.o-i.com/investors until Oct. 2019. To participate in the event via conference call, dial 1-888-733-1701 (U.S. and Canada) or 706-634-4943 (International) by 7:50 a.m. EDT, on Oct. 31. Ask for the O-I conference call. ### About O-I Owens-Illinois, Inc. (NYSE: OI) is the world's largest glass container manufacturer and preferred partner for many of the world's leading food and beverage brands. The Company had revenues of $6.9 billion in 2017 and employs more than 26,500 people at 78 plants in 23 countries. With global headquarters in Perrysburg, Ohio, O-I delivers safe, sustainable, pure, iconic, brand-building glass packaging to a growing global marketplace. For more information, visit o-i.com. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 06:17:27|Editor: yan Video Player Close KHARTOUM, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Sudan's foreign ministry on Wednesday summoned Head of the EU Delegation to Sudan Jean-Michel Dumond over a press meeting held by the EU ambassadors and U.S charge d'affaires in Khartoum on Tuesday. "The ministry informed the EU ambassador with its rejection to the way the meeting was held as it was against the diplomatic norms," said Sudan's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Babikir Al-Siddiq in a statement. The ministry further said the meeting was selective as it did not include all the Sudanese journalists or their representing bodies. According to the statement, the meeting reviewed matters still in question, such as the Press and Publication Act being discussed among relevant institutions. The ministry stressed keenness on dialogue between Sudan and the EU to achieve the desired goals in the agreed frameworks, institutions and priorities. The EU delegation in Khartoum on Tuesday issued a statement saying it met with a group of Sudanese journalists, including editors-in-chief, to discuss issues concerning the Sudanese press. Source: Xinhua| 2018-10-04 06:39:51|Editor: yan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Five police officers on Wednesday were shot in U.S. state South Carolina, according to local media reports. Source: Xinhua| 2018-09-15 09:31:07|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close Guests cut the ribbon on the completion ceremony of the 230 KV Thavieng S/S-Laksao S/S and 115 KV Nam Phay HPP-Thongkoun2 S/S Transmission Lines Project undertaken by the Chinese company NORINCO International Cooperation Ltd in Vientiane, capital of Laos, on Sept. 14, 2018. (Xinhua/Liu Ailun) VIENTIANE, Sept. 15 (Xinhua) -- The completion ceremony of the 230 KV Thavieng S/S-Laksao S/S and 115 KV Nam Phay HPP-Thongkoun2 S/S Transmission Lines Project undertaken by a Chinese company was held on Friday in Lao capital Vientiane. Over 200 Lao and Chinese participants, including Lao Deputy Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and Chinese Ambassador to Laos Wang Wentian, attended the completion ceremony. Khammany Inthirath, Lao minister of energy and mines, said in his speech that the success of the construction of the transmission lines is a major achievement of the country's National Grid Plan in 2016-2020, which will bring convenience to provide electricity to the northern and central provinces of Laos. Yuan Jun, general manager of the Chinese EPC contractor namely NORINCO International Cooperation Ltd (NORINCO International), said that the project is another successful example of the cooperation between NORINCO International and the Lao state corporation, Electricite du Laos (EDL), and also a milestone project of both sides actively promoting China-Laos economic cooperation in response to the Belt and Road Initiative. Boun Oum Syvanpheng, EDL managing director, said the success contributes greatly to the development of Lao electricity sector, as well as the country's industrialization and modernization, and will also help improve Lao people's living standard. It was introduced at the ceremony that the transmission lines project received preferential loans from the Chinese government during construction. The Academy of Sciences has banned two planned lectures for the upcoming Festival of Hungarian Sciences as it says they might have political overtones. One is entitled The Role and Success of Men and Women in Computer Science, From the Perspective of Big Data, and the other The Legal Side of Social Media. The former deals with inequalities in male and female employment in the field of computer science, but deputy general secretary Maria Beata Barnabas banned it due to aspects of gender issues, she wrote in her letter to the general secretary. One of the studys authors, Balazs Vedres, is a professor at the CEU, which holds courses in gender studies, a field disapproved of by the government. The other lecture would have addressed regulation of social media, one of the main problems of the present day. Barnabas forbade this presentation due to unspecified political implications of the subject matter. Lawmakers passed a law requiring individuals and legal entities from outside the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland to disclose to the authorities certain acquisitions in Hungary that may threaten the countrys security interests. Under the law, the entities in question must seek ministerial approval if they intend to carry out investments and become major shareholders in certain companies registered in Hungary. It covers the areas of national security, public security and those affecting economic and public health interests. Permission will be needed for the production of arms and certain military technology, equipment used by the intelligence services, the operation of certain financial services and payment systems, and activities covered by the laws relevant to energy, utilities and electronic communications. The minister will have 60 days to examine whether any such acquisition harms the security interests of Hungary. A fine of up to 10 million forints (EUR 31,000) may be imposed on any entity that fails to provide all the information requested, and in some cases the Hungarian state can exercise preemption rights. Originally the law was set to come into force on October 1 but parliaments legislative committee postponed the date to January 1, 2019 to allow for appropriate preparation. The motion was passed with 113 votes in favour, 50 against and 3 abstentions. MTI Photo: Illyes Tibor Cercul vicios al jocurilor de noroc. Marturia unui jucator prins in capcana Pentru majoritatea oamenilor, jocurile de noroc sunt doar distractive, dar pentru altii pot deveni un iad. Dependenta de jocuri de noroc nu se intampla peste noapte: exista mai multe etape prin care jucatorul trece, inainte ca jocurile de noroc [citeste mai departe] NEW YORK, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Young Jewish Professionals (YJP) will be hosting its annual 2018 CEO Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals Symposium, a gathering of the top executives and investors in the life sciences industry. The two-day conference will be held on November 13th & 14th in Manhattan. This CEO Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals Symposium will bring together leaders in the life sciences space to discuss current trends in drug development, company leadership and financing, and opportunities for innovation/disruption in the industry. This CEO Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals Symposium is set to be our most in-depth look at the research and development of human therapeutics to date. We are thrilled to be hosting such an esteemed group of speakers and look forward to the productive conversations that ensue. In this time of rapid innovation, we hope this symposium will provide an opportunity for executives to learn from one another and explore solutions to the challenges facing leaders in life sciences, said Gabrielle Petrosino, Development Director - Healthcare Division for YJP. More information about the 2018 CEO Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals Symposium can be found here . Speakers at the YJP 2018 CEO Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals Symposium will include: Kenneth Davis, President & CEO, Mount Sinai Health System John Melo, CEO, Amyris Troy Wilson, President & CEO, Kura Oncology Badhri Srinavasan, Head, Global Development Operations, Novartis Matthew Rabinowitz, CEO, Natera Rachel Haurwitz, CEO, Caribou Biosciences Beth Trehu, CMO, Jounce Therapeutics Alex Margolin, CEO, Allena Pharmaceuticals Craig Wheeler, President & CEO, Momenta Pharmaceuticals Alex Zisson, Managing Director, H.I.G. Capital Emmanuel Ligner, President & CEO, GE Healthcare Life Sciences About Young Jewish Professionals (YJP): The YJP Organization is the worlds largest community of business leaders, executives, and investors to teach, mentor, and invest in the new generation of Jewish business leaders. Our community of leaders, executives, and professionals are dedicated to combining their efforts to make the world a better place through Goodness & Kindness. Contact: Gabrielle Petrosino Development Director - Healthcare Division Young Jewish Professionals 646-202-1685 Gabrielle@yjpnewyork.com Stiri pe aceeasi tema - Greenpeace disapproves of the "experimental" Romania-US nuclear project and stresses that Romania "would become a guinea pig for insufficiently tested nuclear technologies," according to an organization's release sent to AGERPRES on Wednesday. "President Klaus Iohannis continues, step by step, to - The talks held on Wednesday by the interim Minister of National Defence, Nicolae Ciuca, with the U.S. Secretary of Defence, Lloyd J. Austin III, currently visiting Bucharest, focused on NATO priorities in the perspective of the meeting that starts on Thursday in Brussels, bilateral relations and - U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III met on Wednesday morning in Bucharest with Romanian Defense Minister Nicolae Ciuca, agerpres reports. The Pentagon chief is on an official visit to Romania and will be received by President Klaus Iohannis. At the end of the meeting at the National - Prime Minister Florin Citu said on Wednesday night for the private TV broadcaster Digi 24 that his resignation from office would mean that he is "irresponsible", that he agrees to throw the "country in the air" on the eve of winter. "That would mean that I am being irresponsible too. The world - President Klaus Iohannis received the request to revoke Stelian Ion from the post of Minister of Justice, according to the Presidential Administration. "The president has received the revocation request and is analyzing it," the Presidential Administration told AGERPRES. Prime Minister Florin - Ministrul muncii, Raluca Turcan, ii indeamna pe oameni sa militeze pentru ca toate drepturile lor salariale sa fie trecute de angajator pe cartea de munca si sa refuze munca la negru sau munca de gri, in conditiile in care oamenii de afaceri au nevoie ca de aer de forta de munca. - Pretul gazelor aproape s-a dublat in Romania. Dupa facturi mai mari la electricitate, urmeaza iata majorari si la gaze. Vinovat pentru aceasta situatie se face PSD, considera ministrul Muncii, Raluca Turcan. Aceasta a precizat ca aceste cresteri vin dupa deciziile luate de guvernul PSD in 2018. Avem, - Salariul minim pe economie in Romania este mic si trebuie sa creasca, iar negocierile cu sindicatele si patronatele pe aceasta tema vor incepe in septembrie, a declarat, miercuri, ministrul Muncii, Raluca Turcan, in cadrul unor declaratii de presa. Ministerul Muncii a anuntat patronatele si sindicatele TORONTO, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Usually a major government announcement is in the media studio at the Legislature or somewhere public where the public can attend and media can ask questions. Today, Ontario Health Coalition spokeswoman, Natalie Mehra, was told by security that she wouldnt even be able to stand in the hallway outside where Premier Doug Ford and Health Minister Christine Elliott were making a hospital funding announcement, even though the announcement was made in a government building which should be open to the public, and even though media had requested interviews after the announcement. In fact, not only was the Health Coalition told they must leave the area by security guards, this government announcement was made as a photo op, not even press conference, so that the media was not allowed to ask questions of Premier Ford or Health Minister Elliott. Todays hospital funding announcement is actually a re-announcement and a cut. This is a replay of what happened in the summer when the government cut more than $330 million in mental health funding and tried to make it look like a new funding announcement, says Ms. Mehra. The Ontario Health Coalition has spent the last 12 years campaigning to stop the hospital cuts and get action on Ontarios hospital overcrowding and undercapacity crisis. Ontario has the fewest hospital beds per capita in Canada and is third from the bottom of the entire OECD . Ontario funds it public hospitals at the lowest rate in Canada . The Ford announcement today is a re-announcement of the budget money that was announced by the Wynne government before the election, but worse, it is also a major cut, said Natalie Mehra, executive director of the Ontario Health Coalition. The Liberals committed $187 million to keep open the 1,200 temporary hospital beds that they had opened last fall. Today, it appears that Doug Ford has cut that to $90 million and 1,100 beds or less. Even with those temporary beds included, Ontario still ranks at the bottom of Canada in the number of beds per person, she added. Doug Ford promised to end hallway medicine but this is the opposite it is a cut. Mr. Ford must live up to his promise to voters and reopen closed hospital beds and restore services to deal with the crisis of overcrowding in our hospitals. The Coalition noted that in October 2017, the Wynne government announced $100 million - $150 million to reopen hospital bed capacity. This money funded 1,200 hospital beds and an additional set of "transitional beds" (lower level of care, lower level of funding beds, all of which were temporary. In response to pressure, then Health Minister Eric Hoskins said he would seek approval from Treasury Board to extend them. In February 2018, Health Minister Eric Hoskins announced $187 million would be in the 2018 Budget for the next fiscal year (2018-19 -- the year we are now in) to continue those 1,200 hospital beds past the election. Through the summer, the Ford government systematically rolled back many or most of the provisions of the 2018 budget. Today, Ford appears to have decreased the funding to $90 million in his announcement for 1,100 hospital beds for one year. What matters most is that this announcement is nowhere near what is needed to deal with the crisis of overcrowding and undercapacity in Ontario's hospitals, concluded Ms. Mehra. Every other province in Canada does better in terms of the number of open hospital beds and hospital funding. There is no question that the Ford government can restore beds and services to meet the real needs of our communities. For more information: Natalie Mehra, executive director (416) 230-6402 (cell); Dana Boettger, communications director (416) 441-2502. Lisa Bailey, left, and her grandaughter Grace Welch, 2 years old, right, pick pumpkins at Johnson's Farm, Thursday, Sept. 22, 2016, in Medford, New Jersey. Read more Late June, Carolyn Matthews Eaglehouse of Milky Way Farm in Chester Springs headed out to the pumpkin fields for a routine check. Planting pumpkins for fall, when families begin looking for pumpkins perfect for jack-o'-lantern carving, is something that most local farms rely on for significant revenue. But it didn't take Eaglehouse very long to notice that the pumpkin plants were not where they should be. "The weather this summer was just goofy," she said. "There were some super-hot days and also lots and lots of rain, and generally speaking, pumpkins do not do well in rain." If you're looking to pick your own pumpkin this year ahead of Halloween, you might find that there's a scarcity of perfect-looking orange pumpkins waiting to be plucked from their vines. Milky Way Farm is just one of a handful of local farms dealing with a smaller or in some cases, nonexistent pumpkin harvest this year, thanks to unpredictable summer weather and wet conditions. The rain, which continued into late September, has so thoroughly drenched some pumpkin patches that the pumpkins are literally floating around in the fields. The Philadelphia area got nearly 12 inches of rain between June and August this year, higher than the national total of 8.95 inches. Eaglehouse said that the farm's pumpkin yield this year is about 35 to 40 percent of what she expects out of a good year. (Milky Way Farm typically brings in pumpkins from farms in Lancaster County to supplement its own supply, but it expects to purchase more pumpkins than usual this year.) Problems began in late May and early June, as fluctuations between hot and rainy days stressed the plants, causing them to produce more male blossoms than female blossoms. "Already, you're dealing with fewer chances for pumpkins to grow," Eaglehouse said. "We also had a lot of cloudy mornings in late July and early August, which meant there weren't as many bees out and about pollinating the pumpkins." South Jersey farms also felt the strain of the extreme summer weather. Duffield's Farm Market in Sewell said that while it had a crop this year, it did not have any big pumpkins. Indian Acres Tree Farm in Medford said that pumpkins it has purchased from other farms to supplement its harvest have disintegrated upon arrival. Sugartown Strawberries in Malvern is also dealing with a crisis the farm lost 8.5 acres of pumpkins, or tens and tens of thousands of dollars in revenue, according to farm owner Bob Lange. He called it the worst pumpkin harvest he's seen in 32 years of planting pumpkins, thanks to the fungus and diseases that came after days and days of rain. "A pumpkin is like a sponge," he said. "It can only take so much water and after that, it's going to start oozing and rotting. That's how we lost 99 percent of our pumpkins this year." Lange is purchasing pumpkins from a grower in Elverson to sell to farm visitors instead and will be happy with a modest profit this year. "I don't even want to send people into the fields because they're just full of rotten pumpkins," he said. "The last nail in the coffin would be if we get rainy weekends in October, because those are visitors that we can't get back." For Hellerick's Family Farm in Doylestown, the troubles started with the germination process. Paul Hellerick, a co-owner of the farm, said that it was difficult planting the pumpkins because the ground was so wet. "Pumpkins are definitely a major source of revenue for us in the fall," Hellerick said. "We're hoping for some dry weather in the next week or so to help them out a little bit, but if we're looking at not having pumpkins the week before Halloween, we'll definitely bring some in." The excessive rain also made it difficult for the outer shells of the pumpkins to harden. Pumpkins need to "cure" under the sunlight, so it came as no surprise to Eaglehouse and Hellerick when their pumpkins started collapsing in on themselves. Even if the pumpkins don't collapse, deer and groundhogs can easily break through the soft skin and eat them. "I appreciate kids' disappointment when they come to the farm and can't go into the fields," Eaglehouse said. "But this is the reality of nature and weather." Bea Mazziotta of Broomall, PA at a telescope during a stargazing event with the Chester County Astronomical Society at the Bucktoe Creek Preserve in Avondale, PA on Sept. 29, 2018. Clouds moved in to cause an early end to the evening. Read more It can be hard to find places to stargaze around a major city like Philadelphia. But as the weather cools and the clouds clear up, scouring the night skies for meteors, planets, and constellations can be rewarding if you're patient and knowledgeable. Readers asked us where they can go stargazing in the area through Curious Philly, our new question-and-response forum that allows you to submit questions about your community you want us to look into. Here's our guide on everything you need to know to go stargazing in Philly and the surrounding areas, including the darkest spots, the best gear to have on hand, and tips from the most experienced astronomers in the area. Where should I go stargazing? Light pollution in Philadelphia has made it increasingly hard to find spots to stargaze in the city, so expect to have to drive out a little bit for darker skies, where you can see the Milky Way. "The darkest place in the area is Lake Nockamixon [in Bucks County]," Lee Zagar, the copresident of the Bucks-Montgomery Astronomical Association, said. "You have to notify the [state] park that you'll be there after dark, but that's where we like to hold our public star-watch nights." According to Renee Stein, the executive director of the Rittenhouse Astronomical Society, one of the best spots for dark skies is Wharton State Forest in New Jersey. It has campsites, so Stein recommended reserving one so you're not asked to leave the area at dusk. "If you go toward Lancaster County, Muddy Run Park is a good option," Stein, who has been stargazing since 2001, said. "We have an observatory there because it's in a low light-polluted area." Derrick Pitts, the chief astronomer and planetarium director for the Franklin Institute, also recommended French Creek State Park as a good spot toward the west. He also cautioned against heading to the Jersey Shore for observing night skies because of the boardwalks' bright lights, despite the commonly held belief that you'll be able to see more if you look out across the ocean. "If you go into New Jersey and drive down [Route] 42 to Route 55, and go down Route 55 before branching off to Route 40, it gets pretty dark," Pitts said. "You can easily turn off the main road and find a little side road and do a little sky observing. The reason why I like doing this is because there are a number of Wawas along the road for a coffee and pie." What if I cant drive out to one of those spots? Are there any spots in the city I can still look at stars? "It's really hard in the city to find good spots," Stein said. "But the best spots are open areas without tall buildings and trees, where you can see the horizon and the sky a bit better. Those spots are hard to come by because you have to go to parks or college campuses. The issue is that if you do and try and plan time at a park, most of our parks close at dusk." Stein said that more often, the Rittenhouse Astronomical Society visits properties of families and friends for open spaces. The society's events are often open to the public (check its website for upcoming events). The Franklin Institute hosts monthly stargazing events on Tuesdays (you have to buy $10 tickets in advance), during which attendees can see planetarium shows and a live astronomy show, participate in hands-on activities, and look at the skies through the museum's telescope. If I want to find my own stargazing spot, what should I look for? Before you head out, go on your computer and look up a light-pollution map lightpollutionmap.info uses information from various government agencies and World Atlas overlays. It will help you identify spots that are darker than others. Weather is also another factor going out on a night with low humidity means that you'll be able to see more because there are fewer clouds. "You also want to look for a wide horizon," Don Knabb, the observing chair for the Chester County Astronomical Society, said, referencing a view that has no obstructions. "And you probably want some privacy away from your neighbors, because people don't like telescopes in their backyard when it's not theirs." Aside from that, Stein also suggested looking for a place with higher elevation because that contributes to a clear horizon. "You want to be able to see over the trees," she said. "Rooftops can be really good if surrounding lights are pointing downwards." You should also pay attention to the direction with the clearest views. Pitts said that good exposure in the west and south directions are the most important because that's where you'll be able to spot the highest number of objects and constellations in the skies. (Yes, that means you'll need to have a compass on you.) Do I need any special equipment? Most astronomers said that you really don't need that much to get started just a lawn chair, a pair of binoculars, a star chart (there are many online versions that you can print out), and a warm blanket. Those cool-looking $300 telescopes on Amazon? They're less necessary than you think. "You want to look for a pair of binoculars that's 750," Pitts said. "Most people already have a pair lying around in their house. And while binoculars are good for looking at one object, like a planet or a star, tracking constellations is easier with just your eyes." (Celestron makes a reliable pair of 750 binoculars and 1570 binoculars, both of which you can purchase on Amazon.) Stein also recommended having a red light or a piece of red cellophane on hand because white light from flashlights and phone screens messes up your night vision. Taping red cellophane over a flashlight keeps your eyes from fluctuating back and forth between day and night vision. (For that reason, she also recommended printing a star chart beforehand and staying away from phone screens.) "In cooler months, you'll also need to bundle up in scarves, coats, and jackets," Dwight Dulsky, the copresident of the Bucks-Montgomery Astronomical Association, said. "In the summer, you don't want to forget the bug spray." If you do want a telescope, Dulsky said that you shouldn't pay less than $300 for one of decent quality. "But if you go stargazing with an astronomy group, many longtime astronomers will bring their telescopes for you to look through," he added. Are there any good apps that I can download before going stargazing? Phone and iPad apps can tell you what's directly overhead using location tracking services, which makes them helpful if you're just starting out. Pocket Universe ($2.99) and Stellarium ($2.99) are reliable ones for iPhone and Android users. On Android, you can also explore SkEye and Sky Map. But if you're willing to shell out a few bucks, the astronomers I spoke with also recommended SkySafari (free to $19.99) for iOS. Most of the apps work well on an iPad. What are some other things I should keep in mind? One of the best ways to get started in stargazing is by attending events organized by local astronomy clubs. Astronomers are more than happy to answer any questions and make recommendations for gear. If the weather isn't cooperating, the groups usually pick one to two rain dates for events. There are also plenty of ways for you to contribute data to research by professional astronomers while you're out there looking at the night sky. Globe at Night, in particular, is a website that tracks how bad light pollution is around the world through data submitted by citizens. If you're interested in helping correct the problem of light pollution, consider installing motion detectors on any of your outdoor lights so they turn off when there's no one around. Putting shades that point downward on lightbulbs outside can also help. But at the end of the night, keeping an open mind is the most important quality to a good stargazing session. In amateur astronomy, theres a low threshold and a high ceiling, Dulsky said. Theres so much that you can learn that theres really no opportunity to get bored. The SugarHouse is located on Delaware Avenue, just north of Spring Garden. Read more Warning to casino patrons: Beware the flashing light on the dealer's automatic card shuffler. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board on Wednesday fined SugarHouse Casino a total of $100,000 for dealing cards to patrons using "illegitimate" decks, including a series of incidents last year in which cards were compromised by malfunctioning automatic shufflers. The casino said that employees had failed to properly address warning lights on automated shufflers used at blackjack, poker, and mini-baccarat tables in seven incidents between May 2017 and January 2018. In some cases, dealers used decks of cards that contained too many cards; too few cards; or in one poker tournament, cards sorted into sequential order rather than randomly shuffled. Though the casino and investigators found no collusion the incidents involved different games, dealers and supervisors two casino supervisors were terminated, said John M. Donnelly, the SugarHouse lawyer. One was later reinstated on appeal. In a May 2017 incident, a technician found 16 cards remaining in an automatic shuffler that had been removed from service. When investigators retraced the cards, they found them missing from six decks that were used in 46 rounds of blackjack the previous day, involving 122 individual hands. Only one of eight blackjack players who were dealt hands from the short decks won. "SugarHouse personnel did not provide the patrons with any kind of reimbursement," according to the consent agreement. In a September 2017 poker tournament, a dealer mistakenly set the automatic shuffler not to randomly shuffle the cards, but to sort them by suit into sequence. The dealer dealt 16 poker hands before noticing the cards were suited and in sequential order. It was curious that none of the players complained, the casino said. "What was going on in SugarHouse that was causing this amount of mess-ups in that short time?" asked Chairman David M. Barasch, who dissented in the board's 6-1 vote to accept SugarHouse's agreement to pay an $87,500 fine for the incidents. Carelessness and boredom seemed to be the likely explanations, said Cyrus Pitre, director of the PGCB's office of enforcement counsel. "It's complacency in regard with the red light going off on the shuffler," he told Barasch, who expressed consternation at the "rash" of incidents. In a separate violation that merited a $12,500 fine, SugarHouse dealers deployed decks with too many cards in a game of Spanish 21, a blackjack game in which the 10s are normally removed from play. The casino employees noticed that the 10s had not been removed from several decks only after 27 hands were dealt, including 18 hands that contained 10s. No players complained. Dean McBride, SugarHouse's vice president of gaming, said employees have been retrained and disciplined, and the casino has directed its card vendor to supply special 48-card decks for Spanish 21 play, so that the mistake would not be repeated. But under questioning, McBride acknowledged that the 48-card decks have no other markings to distinguish them from 52-card decks raising the risk they could be mistakenly used in the wrong games. "I don't want to be here in a couple months talking about other games when Spanish 21 cards are used when it should have been a deck of 52 used," said Barasch. Cars drive on Roosevelt Boulevard at its intersection with Ninth Street in North Philadelphia on Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2018. Traffic crashes frequently occur on the boulevard. TIM TAI / Staff Photographer Read more A long-hoped-for street safety tool could soon be coming to Philadelphia: speed cameras. The Pennsylvania Senate on Tuesday voted 47-1 to approve the use of speed cameras in the state. The bill already had been approved by the House, so it now goes to Gov. Wolf, who is expected to sign it into law. The speed cameras are planned to be used first in a pilot program on Roosevelt Boulevard, which has seen an increase in deaths from vehicle crashes this year. The bill also authorized the use of speed cameras on highway work zones throughout the state. "It took too long to get done, but it finally got done, and I'm thrilled," said Bob Previdi, policy coordinator for the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia. "This is a first step in many things we need to do to make the Boulevard and our streets safer." Automated enforcement is seen by city officials as a valuable tool in the quest to bring down the death toll caused by vehicle crashes in Philadelphia. Automation frees police officers to handle criminal investigations and eliminates concerns about racial profiling and bias that can accompany manned traffic enforcement. The city has a 22-year strategy for Roosevelt Boulevard that eventually would include dedicated bus lanes to wean people from their cars and encourage public transportation. Automated speed enforcement is a first step in taming the route. "We feel very strongly that the evidence is there that it will have a pretty significant safety impact," said Mike Carroll, Philadelphia's deputy managing director for transportation and infrastructure. >>READ MORE: With a weekend fatality, Roosevelt Boulevard on pace for most deadly year in recent history The Philadelphia Parking Authority, which will administer the program, has said the cameras could be active on Roosevelt Boulevard in four to six months. When they're activated, there will be a 30-day grace period that would let speeders off with a warning. After that, a motorist photographed traveling 11 mph over the 45-mph speed limit would incur a $150 fine. Revenue is to go to the Motor License Fund and will fund grants for transportation projects, the legislation states. The city plans to install nine cameras along nearly 12 miles of the Boulevard, from the Philadelphia border with Bucks County to the Ninth Street intersection near Hunting Park. Signs placed every two miles will let drivers know the cameras are there. "We're going to be looking at high-crash locations, and we're going to be looking at locations where speed has been a factor in those crashes," Carroll said. He also was not certain how long the pilot program would last, saying the city needed to capture data about the cameras' effectiveness before using them elsewhere. Bringing more cameras to Philadelphia beyond the Boulevard would require state authorization, he said. Speed-camera tickets would not add points against a driver's license and would not affect automobile insurance rates. City officials have described Roosevelt Boulevard as a top priority of the Vision Zero program, which emphasizes engineering, education, and enforcement as tools that can slow cars and prevent fatal crashes.. About 86,000 vehicles a day use the road. Between 2011 and 2016, the 12-lane divided highway saw about 3,000 crashes, according to city data released in 2017. Officials have argued speed cameras will be a critical tool in making the route safer. So far this year, there have been 13 deaths on the route, according to Philadelphia police, and one on a limited access portion of it, the Roosevelt Expressway. Eight died on the Boulevard in 2017. The cameras for work zones on state highways also will be triggered by vehicles traveling 11 mph over the speed limit and may be installed on federally funded highways and the Pennsylvania Turnpike, according to the legislation. A first offense would cost a driver $75. The legislation requires that warnings also be placed on the highway alerting drivers to the presence of the cameras, and on PennDot or the Turnpike's websites. Like with the Roosevelt Boulevard cameras, a violation on a highway would not add points to a driver's license. After administrative costs are covered, 45 percent of the revenue from the work zone violation fines would go to the State Police, 40 percent would go to the Motor License Fund, and 15 percent could be used to promote work zone and traffic safety on highways. Speed plays a role in about half the traffic-related deaths in Philadelphia each year, officials have said. A study from the National Transportation Safety Board in 2017 found that from 2005 to 2014, speed played a role in 31 percent of American traffic fatalities 112,580 deaths. >>READ MORE: Where are you most likely to be killed by a car in Philadelphia? (Hint: Not Center City) Pennsylvania would be the 16th state to adopt a speed-camera program, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Studies on speed cameras' effectiveness generally show that they do improve safety, but it is difficult to determine to what extent. The NTSB study cited research that showed the cameras reduced all crashes by nearly half and serious injuries and deaths by 44 percent. A 2016 study in the United Kingdom found speed cameras reduced deaths and serious collisions by 50 percent but acknowledged it was difficult to determine how much of that reduction was directly attributable to the presence of speed cameras. Other studies have found a less significant improvement due to speed cameras, and just last month, the Washington Post reported that the one million tickets issued by speed cameras in the District of Columbia in 2017 was a record high for the two-decade-old automatic enforcement program, an indication that cameras weren't changing drivers' behaviors. Critics of the technology have said they are concerned it would be used as a revenue generator, rather than a safety tool. "They are everywhere and always a racket to get money from safe drivers," said Thomas McCarey, a member of the National Motorists Association, which has fiercely fought the legislation. "The politicians are desperate to get more money, even if it makes the highways more dangerous." Over the past week, as I've watched multiple sexual assault accusations lead to an FBI investigation of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, I've come to believe that white women hold the key to America's political and social future. White women, after all, stand along the line that separates racial and gender identity. On the one hand, their race makes them the epitome of privilege. But their gender has too often left them vulnerable to abuse. Now, in the midst of a #MeToo movement that seeks to punish sexual abusers, powerful men like President Donald Trump and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell are supporting an accused sexual abuser's bid for a lifetime Supreme Court appointment. This, despite the Senate testimony of Christine Blasey Ford, a white woman who said Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her. Though recent polling suggests college-educated white women are starting to pull away from Trump, Kavanaugh, and their allies, the upcoming midterm elections will determine where white female voters' loyalties truly lie. Their votes will no doubt shape the midterm results and, in doing so, shape America's future. Should white women see gender equality as a main issue in the election, they will likely lean Democratic. But if white women decide that racial dominance is more important, they will probably pick Republicans, some of whom are the very men who are openly hostile to women, such as Ford, who complain of sexual abuse. One would think that the decision would be easy. Apparently, it's not. Given a choice between a candidate whose race-based insults earned a Ku Klux Klan endorsement and a woman who had much more experience in governing, 53 percent of white female voters chose Trump over Hillary Clinton in 2016. I believe they chose misogyny over equality. They chose race over gender. It's impossible to know exactly why, but perhaps the majority of white women understood that even with a female president, the change they were looking for would take time. Maybe they didn't care that a Trump win would lead to more paternalism and misogyny. Or maybe white women saw things more simply, and decided that a vote for Trump was a vote for white privilege. In a country where one's skin color has monetary value, white privilege is no small thing. White privilege means whites are paid more than blacks for doing the same jobs. It means blacks with similar income and credit scores as their white counterparts have more trouble getting loans. It means whites get shorter sentences when they are convicted of the same crimes as their black counterparts, even when their records are similar. The payoff for standing up for women's rights might not be that immediate, especially for white women who haven't earned college degrees. I believe that's why non-college-educated white women voted for Trump despite an audiotape of Trump bragging that his celebrity status allowed him to do anything to women, up to and including grabbing them by their genitals. They voted for Trump even after multiple women accused him of sexual harassment and sexual assault. Even now, after the list of women accusing Trump of sexual harassment or assault has grown to 22, Trump still has a support base among white women. But that support base is increasingly divided by educational attainment. In the wake of dramatic Senate testimony by Christine Blasey Ford, the California professor who accused Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her in the 1980s, college-educated white women are starting to back away from Trump, Kavanaugh, and the Republican Party as a whole. Solomon Jones is the author of 10 books. Listen to him weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon on Praise 107.9 FM. sj@solomonjones.com: @solomonjones1 Demonstrators mass outside the Illegal Tacos restaurant on South Broad Street on Tuesday. Stu Bykofsky / Staff Read more They came tramping through the mist, a small posse of the self-appointed and self-righteous, hunting for offense, which they found in a word they despise illegal. (Can't imagine why.) Applying it to the word taco is racist, said three dozen protesters who gathered last week outside Illegal Tacos, a tiny Mexican restaurant at 427 S. Broad St. owned by Florian Furxhiu. Part of their fury was driven by his posting on Instagram photos of law enforcement officers eating at his cantina. Dismissing the protesters as "Internet justice warriors," Furxhiu, 32, says, "They are giving a bad name to the Mexican people who have no problem with police." Furxhiu, an Albanian immigrant who came to America legally in 2000, employs nine people, all but two from Latin America. He also operates the Mediterranean Cafe on Passyunk Avenue. The Illegal Tacos name, says Furxhiu, laughing, means the tacos are so good they should be illegal. "It is not against a group of people," as President Trump is accused of targeting, he says. Back in April, someone posted an attack on Instagram, he says, resulting in vulgar phone calls and threats. "They supposed the name was racist, and I support the police," he says. "If I do, what's wrong with that?" What's wrong with it, says Erika Almiron, executive director of Juntos, the organization that led the protest, is that Furxhiu was photographed "with agents of the Department of Homeland Security, an agency that oversees ICE and has aided in tearing apart millions of families." It is true people here illegally have been deported, as authorized by U.S. law. Juntos has a problem with law enforcement, but Furxhiu doesn't. He also was photographed with Philadelphia police. Prior to the protest, Furxhiu offered to meet with one of the leaders but was rebuffed, and produced a Facebook exchange to prove it. "I am a strong character, so I am not changing the name because 1,000 trolls are blowing up my Facebook page," says Furxhiu. It's not the first time the hypersensitive and humorless officers of the restaurant PC police have come out. In 2016, City Councilwoman Helen Gym, the czarina of imagined cultural affronts, smeared Alanna Li and Bailin Chen, two Asian Americans running a popular Asian food truck on the Drexel University campus. The truck goes by the name of brace yourself Wheely Wheely Good. When Gym stumbled upon the food truck one day, she hissed at the owners that their truck's name was "super-racist," according to an account in Philadelphia Magazine. Gym also criticized the Asian typeface and playful caricatures on the truck. Li says the name of the truck was a play on words because the truck is on wheels get it? and the caricatures represent herself and her co-owner Chen. Not good enough for Gym, who demanded that the owners change the name of the truck and the design. The owners refused because free people don't have to bow down before officious bullies. Three years earlier, in 2013, we had the issue of Chink's. Joe Groh had owned Chink's at 6030 Torresdale Ave. since 1999, when he bought it from the widow of the original owner, Sam "Chink" Sherman. Groh had worked for Sherman for 35 years and loved the tiny sandwich shop. Someone walking by one day saw the name, took offense at what seemed an Asian slur, and we were off to the races. Groh decided that fighting was futile. He changed the name to Joe's Steak + Soda Shop and his business promptly dropped by 10 to 15 percent, as some old customers boycotted the new PC name. "It took a while to push away from the Chink's name," but Groh's business now is doing well. In 2015, he opened a second Joe's in Fishtown, where he says no one is aware of the history, but they could be. Groh's company website reveals the steak shop's former name and the controversy, giving old "Chink" Sherman the final word. Until the PC police find it, anyway. President Donald Trump's former chief strategist Steve Bannon gestures as he speaks during during an ideas festival sponsored by The Economist, Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, in New York. Bannon said he's surprised the #MeToo movement hasn't had more impact on corporate America. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer) Read more Early last month, Steve Bannon the man who designed Donald Trump's America First strategy in 2016 scored a win for his newest political crusade: to forge a continentwide populist movement that will triumph in European Parliament elections next May. In his first enlistment of a major European leader, Bannon convinced Matteo Salvini, the most powerful politician in Italy's new nationalist-populist government, to sign up with his Brussels-based project, known as the Movement. Bannon's goal: to meld Europe's diverse nationalist and populist parties into a broad alliance that will undo the European Union. Having been ousted from the White House, Bannon believes Europe is ripe for a political tsunami that builds on populist gains within individual countries. He views a takeover of the EU parliament as the path to remaking or dissolving it. Down that road lie economic and political chaos, the further weakening of America's key allies, and a potential slide toward illiberal democracy in several European countries. At a conference in Budapest in May, Bannon proclaimed: "The populist nationalist revolt is about a year ahead in Europe than in the United States." He believes tea party-style populism is a global phenomenon on the upswing. So, as Americans debate the impact of populism at home, it's worth paying attention to Bannon's maneuvers in Europe over the coming eight months. Italy is a good place to start. A former radio disc jockey, Salvini heads the nationalist, anti-immigrant League party in a coalition with a strange internet-based party known as the Five Star Movement. The new government is hostile to the European Union, is pro-Russia, and has a distinctly Trumpian attitude toward the media. Salvini has 3.2 million followers on Facebook and 880,400 on Twitter and imitates Trump with constant, offensive nuggets. The Five Star Movement, for its part, was notorious for spreading fake news and conspiracy theories on its network of websites. Meantime, the coalition government has appointed an Infowars, Alex Jones-style conspiracy theorist to head its public TV station. I asked the distinguished Italian journalist Lucia Annunziata what use Bannon was to Salvini and the new Italian government. "They get celebrity from Bannon," she replied swiftly. "They say we can use him, as he uses us." She added that Bannon, and Trump, had already had a stimulating effect on populist parties that were once derided in Europe. "Trump provided a change of atmosphere, the template to say this is how it is done, how it can work," she said. "He provided a major inspiration, a change of mood." As for Bannon: "He's the guy who has galvanized the nationalist, sovereignty-first movements." Although he failed in prior efforts to organize a social-media empire in Europe, "he is a good manipulator." Moreover, says Annunziata, "The idea of transnational lists [to run in the European Parliament] is popular now." Bannon could help Europe's populist parties form an alliance that ran a single list, while offering them the expertise in polling, data analytics, and voter turnout he provided to Trump. The elections for the European Parliament, with which many Americans are unfamiliar, "will redefine Europe," says the Italian journalist. They will pit two sets of leaders with opposing ideologies against each other. On one side, led by France's Emmanuel Macron, will be those who defend liberal democracy, rule of law, and a strong Europe, and want to push back Chinese and Russian meddling. On the other side will be the populists, such as Italy's new leaders; would-be authoritarians, such as Hungary's Viktor Orban (also wooed by Bannon); and other Euro-skeptics, most of whom want to cozy up to Moscow. If a populist slate managed to win a majority, they could rewrite the rules that set up the European Union, including provisions for open borders between European countries. "The project on the left to defend Europe is weak," Annunziata admitted. Not just on the left, but on the center-left and center-right. A look around Europe makes clear why Bannon is ebullient. Britain is heading toward the March 29 deadline for a Brexit from Europe, without any domestic agreement on an exit plan. All the cheery economic promises made to voters by Brexit supporters have proven false, but no one yet knows how to stop the process. And there's no guarantee that a second referendum, if held, would yield a different result. Meantime, Germany's Angela Merkel, a strong EU defender, is seriously weakened by political challenges within her own party. The nationalist-populist Alternative fur Deutschland party is now the main opposition and gaining strength. None of the above guarantees Bannon's project will take off. He failed to raise funds for an earlier effort to set up a media operation in Europe similar to Breitbart, the gadfly website he once ran in America. His bragging often outstrips his means. Moreover, some European populist parties will be reluctant to associate with any movement led by an American. However, if he succeeds, Bannon's Movement could change the face of Europe and prove that the populist trend is truly global. So put May 23 and May 29 the dates when voters will choose a new European Parliament on your calendar to watch. Val DiGiorgio, chairperson of the Pennsylvania Republican Party and a 1985 graduate of Philadelphia's storied Central High, is concerned. A teacher at his alma mater is engaging in "liberal indoctrination," DiGiorgio said in an interview Wednesday. He appealed directly to Superintendent William R. Hite Jr., asking the Philadelphia School District to investigate whether the Central High social studies department chair had engaged in political activity in violation of district policy. Lee Whack, a spokesperson for the district, said an investigation is forthcoming. A flier, which a former Central classmate of DiGiorgio's passed on to him, urges students to vote for a long list of reasons, including "VOTE to stop Republican voter suppression" and "VOTE to stop the Trump regime." DiGiorgio said the flier was given to students by Thomas Quinn, a teacher at the school. The district's employee handbook warns against political activity. "The use of pupils for writing or addressing political material or the distribution of such material to or by pupils is forbidden," it reads. DiGiorgio said he had many liberal teachers at Central, but "they didn't try to indoctrinate us. They encouraged debate." (In those days, he said, the debate was mostly about Frank Rizzo and W. Wilson Goode.) "This flier was a blatant attempt not just to indoctrinate, but to impart something that's hateful, that contains lies," DiGiorgio said. "Referring to the president's administration as the Trump regime that's outrageous." DiGiorgio sent the letter Tuesday, and said he had gotten no immediate reaction from Hite or anyone else at the district, but he made clear in a letter to the superintendent that "this is a very serious matter." "How would a student, outspoken about their support for conservative views, feel about being in Mr. Quinn's class?" DiGiorgio wrote. "Being graded by him?" He said he had yet to bring the matter to the attention of his sister, Maria McColgan, a member of the new Philadelphia school board. Whack, the schools spokesperson, referenced the district edict concerning employees' political activity. "We take this policy seriously and, as Nov. 6 nears, we will remind our employees of this policy," Whack said. Nelson Diaz, author of "Not from Here, Not from There/ No Soy de Aqui ni de Alla." Read more Starting from elsewhere, new Americans make their own ways. Often, their lives are an odyssey from first to first to first. Such has been the life of Nelson Diaz, lawyer, judge, activist. He came to the United States from Puerto Rico in the womb of his mother and was born in Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan in 1947. He grew up in West Harlem. "I was a vulnerable child, left alone in a building overstuffed with people living in squalor," he writes in his new autobiography, Not from Here, Not from There/ No Soy de Aqui Ni de Alla: The Autobiography of Nelson Diaz. He tells of overcrowding, sexual abuse, violence, drugs, and gangs. Wait, you might say, this is the same Nelson Diaz? Temple Law School's first Puerto Rican graduate? At 34, Philly's youngest and first Latino judge? City solicitor? General counsel for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in the Clinton Administration? That Nelson Diaz? True to his book's title, Diaz stresses the doubleness of being Puerto Rican American. "As a Latino," he writes, "I am several things at once. Being not any one thing makes identity a difficult thing to hold onto. I am a stranger in my own country and a citizen of an island where I have never lived. I have never been truly at home or accepted in either place." He brings his book to the Free Library at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 9, in conversation with writer Sabrina Vourvoulias. He has written his life story, he says, "to motivate the community in the art of striving." One moment you're a teenager in a Harlem gang. Just a few years later, you're going to college. Something must have happened to you around 15. What was it? I was not proficient in English. I had street English, but Spanish was what we spoke at home. I was a class clown, unruly, and I got bad grades. But when I was 15, my mom took me to her church, a little storefront church of maybe 200 people. The congregation was mostly teens and young adults. A lot of young people there had been through Teen Challenge, Dave Wilkerson's program for youths who had been in gangs. I go to this church and see a number of my former gang mates there. That gave me pause. I was treated so well, so welcoming, that I went through a total change. Faith was part of it, too: I started to believe that because I was God-made, there was nothing I couldn't do. I started to hide from my gang mates, stay in my room, and memorize the books for my exams. I entered our building the back way to avoid my gang mates. So I started getting better grades, going from D's to A's in a year. I wasn't getting it all, of course, but I began to think maybe I could be an accountant, help get my family and myself out of Harlem. I was very afraid I'd get caught up in drugs. I saw friends dying on the streets in Harlem. I had to do whatever I could to get out. Until I finished college, I essentially kept myself in my room or the library. In 1969, you graduated second in your class from St. John's University in New York with a degree in accounting, and you had an accounting job ready and waiting for you. This is when, as you put it, Peter J. Liacouras "bamboozled" you into coming to the Temple Law School. I had started, but not finished, a program meant to get more minorities into law schools. And Peter found out and started campaigning. He had a vision of bringing more minorities in. He called me almost every day: "Oh, you'll love Temple, we have so many Puerto Ricans here," and so on. When I got there, I was truly awakened, let's just put it that way. No Puerto Rican had ever graduated from the law school or passed the bar. Only four African Americans had passed the bar in the previous eight years. That's where your career in activism began. I started studying with my then-classmate Carl Singley, and we began to organize the Black Law Student Organization. Our last year there, the BLSO took over the law school because the dean refused to allow us to come see him about problems in getting minority students to succeed. We resigned from the school and picketed. As a result, the dean resigned, and we were given a role in recruiting 10 Latino students and 25 black students. In 1972, the Pennsylvania bar became a multistate bar, and I passed, the first Puerto Rican to pass. It was more luck than talent. Thus began your long association with Philadelphia. The town's relationship with its Puerto Rican community has been odd, quite different from other towns such as New York or Miami. That's partly due to the city itself, and partly to who the Puerto Ricans were who first came here. Many were agrarian-based people who wanted to be back there but had to live here, where they were never comfortable. On both sides of the relationship, there's a colonial mind-set, and it takes generations on both sides to work our way out of it. Voting rates are very low you don't see Puerto Ricans interested in the vote until maybe the fourth generation. Looking over the work you've done in so many public realms judicial reform, energy, diversity in the police department, bilingual government services I'm struck especially by your continued interest in housing. I tried to improve the quality of life for people who live in public housing. Housing is a human right. And at HUD, right down to today, I've fought against high-rise housing, which doesn't work anywhere else in the country except for maybe New York. In 1994, I issued an opinion that allowed public agencies to partner with private developers in public housing redevelopment projects. It's still known as the "Diaz opinion." I'm particularly proud of that. Hey, I've lost more than I've won. I love the city and the opportunities I've had to make life better for people. Even if I get knocked on the head sometimes. You call your mother a towering influence in your life. Did she enjoy seeing you become a judge? Yes, she was pretty happy. On the other hand, she was not happy at all about me running for mayor in 2015. She looked at politicians as thieves, so she was happy that I lost: "I don't want to be part of a society of thieves." She died very content. You can see how much she did in my life besides chasing me with a bat through Harlem to get me to go to school. Tampa, FL, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TAMPA, Fla. - A worker suffers an injury on the job every seven seconds in the United States. Many of these workers are entitled to workers compensation benefits after suffering their injury, but too many of them arent properly informed by their employers of these basic rights, according to Florida labor law attorney Mitch Feldman. Workplace injuries are very common in the U.S., Feldman said. Yet, the process of filing a workers compensation claim intimidates so many injured workers, simply because they are unsure of their rights and where to begin. Feldman said that one of the biggest goals of his practice is to help workers better understand the protections given to them by federal and state laws. He said that workers compensation insurance is one of the most fundamental and commonly misunderstood areas of labor law. Workers compensation insurance programs are regulated by states and, thus, the laws can vary from one to another. These programs first emerged in the early 1900s as public awareness of worker mistreatment pushed states to adopt legislation that protected laborers. Today, most states require employers to carry workers compensation insurance. These programs protect workers from financial hardship in the event of workplace injury while also ensuring that employers are shielded from lawsuits. Feldman said that workers compensation insurance is central to worker protection in the U.S., though several obstacles keep many workers from getting the compensation theyre entitled to. Many workers are misclassified as contractors and not employees, which means they arent entitled to benefits. Many workers are also denied benefits by their employers insurer. In these cases, workers must take further steps to make the case that they deserve compensation. Unfortunately, workers arent always given the benefits they deserve, Feldman said. Employers might falsely claim that a workers misconduct led to the injury, which means the workers benefits will be denied. Feldman said some workers dont even pursue workers compensation benefits when they are injured, either because the culture discourages it or because the complexity of the process seems overwhelming. He said that knowing the first steps to take should help workers overcome any anxiety associated with the process. An injured worker should first report their injury to their supervisor and seek immediate medical treatment, Feldman said. If you can report it in writing, then do so and keep a copy of your statement. Make personal notes about the incident while it is fresh in your memory, follow your doctors orders and follow-up with your employer to be sure the injury has been reported. Its usually only after a worker encounters difficulty that they seek the services of a workers compensation attorney, Feldman said. However, a worker can seek legal help at any point in the process. He encourages people to speak to an attorney whenever they feel like they need assistance. A workplace injury can disrupt a persons life in very serious ways, Feldman said. When your health, your income and your career are at stake, its important to take these claims seriously and do whatever is necessary to be sure you are treated fairly. About Feldman Williams : Kensington resident David Wollmar, who has a home and has lived in the are for over twenty-five years, walks through an area where people are camped out in Kensington, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2018. JESSICA GRIFFIN / Staff Photographer Read more Laticia Rios, a 62-year-old homemaker, waved to some rowhouse neighbors in the city's Kensington area the other evening. Soon enough, people who share walls and worries were arguing about the neighborhood's newest controversy: a proposed city-sanctioned safe injection site for people in addiction. With a skyrocketing overdose rate an estimated 1,200 people in the city died of drug overdoses last year advocates say the sites could help save lives. But on Rios' block, residents of this long-neglected neighborhood doubted the plan would help. "That place would be an open invitation for people to get high," said Nikki Rosario, 35, a newlywed who works as an administrative assistant in the city. "And more people will come here to do it," said Victor Rodriguez, 63, a retired accountant on a block whose residents have negotiated to keep drug dealers away, and so don't want their street identified. "Everybody's scared of that." Just blocks away, some parents fetching their children from school voiced similar fears. Others were open to the idea. Ebony Smith's 5-year-old son has watched his mom dial 911 to report a person overdose on the street, and waited with her for help to arrive. She's OK with a site in Kensington if it's not the only one in the city. "We don't want to get stuck with it," she said. "The site is cool. It's good they won't be outside you can at least offer them [treatment] options." Residents of this area the epicenter of the crisis in Philadelphia, which has the highest overdose death rate of any major American city say they've shouldered a heavy burden already. They are frustrated they have few details on the sites, where people would be able to use drugs under medical supervision, be revived if they overdose, and access treatment and other services. Philadelphia would be the first U.S. city with an officially sanctioned site. No specific locations have been identified, other than to say they need to be close to people in addiction. And that list would be led by Kensington, which draws people in addiction from several states many of them white interlopers in a community deserted long ago by white residents who camp out under bridges and in abandoned buildings. It is a community where people remember an earlier drug plague, one where people of color were sent to prison, not cared for with safe injection sites. Yet reactions here do not line up neatly in us-against-them order. The one unifying belief: Whatever else happens, Kensington needs much more than a safe injection site. Jessie Alejandro-Cruz, director of Mothers Mission, a local advocacy group, was checking on the well-being of drug users with her friend Charito Morales, a nurse and activist. She wants something different for the community than sanctioned places to inject drugs. "We've suffered enough. Kensington doesn't deserve this." Sterling Johnson, a member of another helping group, the Save Our Lives Collective, believes a site could be the start of investing in the community to address the harm that has been done in the past to Kensington. "We will be here again if we don't take that context into account," said Johnson, whose group distributes clean needles and food and provides wound care. "The racist drug laws of the 1970s are still here. [Safe injection sites] are the beginning of unraveling that." Protecting the children At Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Elementary School on Thursday afternoon, parents walked up Lehigh Avenue to get their kids. On the south side of the avenue sits the school playground. On the north side, heroin users have set up tents and mattresses and cardboard shelters under a train bridge, a camp that sprang up after the city and Conrail blocked access to the notorious but hidden trackside zone known as El Campamento. Some parents take the long way around to avoid the bridge camp, or tell their kids not to look out the car windows. Meanwhile, people in the encampment call out, "Kids on the block!" as a warning not to shoot up in sight of children walking by. "It's next to a school," emphasized Jose Santana, waiting for his daughter outside Visitation. He was not convinced by public health officials' evidence that safe injection sites in other countries have cut down on public injections and the piles of discarded needles that litter these streets. Inside the office, Lourdes Terreforte, the parish secretary, sighed. Her son, who's 34, has been addicted to heroin for three years and is in prison. She understands that a safe injection site would likely decrease public drug use. But she can't get past the idea of a city-sanctioned space to use drugs, even in a neighborhood where drug use is already so visible: "That's giving them more right to shoot up heroin." But Marilyn Montes, who has two children at Visitation, said she supports the idea. Last year, she said she called the city for months about an abandoned house on her block where people were using drugs, and a man eventually died of an overdose. To her, a safe injection site "is fine," she said. "I think that's better than having them out there in the street." A library gets back to the books Last summer, the lawn of the McPherson Square library was the closest thing to a safe injection site in Philadelphia. Young people set up camp outside the historic building just beyond the El tracks above Kensington Avenue, using heroin on the lawn. When they overdosed, the librarians would rush outside with Narcan. "It was a pseudo safe injection site," said librarian Chera Kowalski, who saved six people on the lawn last summer. "But we were a space that also had kids and families a community space. It was an exhausting balance." These days, thanks to an extended police presence, the lawn is quiet. A mother played with her children on the gleaming new playground outside; residents tapped at computers and asked Kowalski for help scanning library cards inside. She was relieved, she said, that the city had announced plans to open a site. But much more needs to be done. "There's a lot of misinformation out there," she said. "You have to assure the community that this is going to impact the quality of life. They can't just make this choice and assume people understand. They can't [only] speak to audiences who already agree with it." Two pastors, two viewpoints The Rev. Richard Harris, pastor at Firm Hope Baptist Church on Auburn Street, is a member of the neighborhood group Somerset Neighbors for Better Living, which has been organizing street cleanups around Kensington. Many in his group are adamantly opposed to a safe injection site. "You're going to a street dealer to buy drugs and to a government site to do it?" he said. "My mind just can't wrap around it right yet." Yet he's coming around. "At the end of the day, I have to put my personal feelings aside and support the safe site, because the drug usage is going to continue," he said. "And I see the need, of trying to save a life." Juan Marrero, pastor of Christ Centered Church on North Broad Street, offers another perspective: that of a man in recovery from cocaine addiction. "An injection site may keep users off the street, but my faith tells me it may contribute to addiction," said Marerro. "For me, that's confliction, brother." Like a lot of people, Marerro is stunned by the irony that a once-white neighborhood that rioted in the 1960s because brown and black people moved in could be asked to accommodate injection sites for white drug users. "We're one of the poorest neighborhoods in the nation, and we have white addicts from Oregon panhandling," Marerro said. "It's a dynamic I've never seen before. Still, that people here give money shows the hospitality they have." In addiction, wanting a way out Under a Conrail bridge on Emerald Street, 15 tents and 10 mattresses were lined against the cold wall. It's an impromptu setup that feels more permanent by the day, where the denizens stuff foil roasting pans into the sewer to keep rats from overrunning them as they sleep. In the camps on Lehigh Avenue there are two more under the bridges on Frankford Avenue and Kensington Avenue more than a dozen people in addiction said they supported having a safe injection site. There was an outlier: Jessica Bradshaw, 40, pushing her blond hair out of her eyes as she plopped onto a discarded office chair, said she needed a "place to get my [stuff together], not a place to shoot up why not build a shelter?" Shannon Hurley, walking by, said she and her husband left their house in Wilmington on Dec. 29 to celebrate his birthday and had been in Kensington ever since. The 39-year-old mother of two children, aged 20 and 19, said that she'd be in favor of an injection site, simply for the safety it would provide. Others said they would welcome the medical supervision. "I wouldn't destroy my veins," said Marlyn Glover, referring to the dangerous abscesses that drug use can create. Many spoke of not having to inject publicly, especially in front of children. And it would save their lives, they said. "It's better than sitting out here," said a woman named Tonya, who has lived in a tent on Kensington Avenue for several months. "People are going to do it anyway. And so many people have died already." Some, she said, were her friends. Nearly three decades after championing Philadelphia's first and only needle exchange for drug users, former Mayor and Gov. Ed Rendell is backing an even bolder idea to protect people in addiction from risk: He has joined the board of a nonprofit whose goal is to open a safe injection site where people can use drugs under medical supervision, and be revived if they overdose. The incorporation of the nonprofit, called Safehouse, is Philadelphia's first concrete step toward opening a site since January, when city officials announced they would permit one to open, provided it was built and operated with private dollars. Philadelphia has the highest overdose death rate of any major U.S. city and could become the first in the country to open a safe injection site. A handful of U.S. cities, from New York to Seattle, are working on plans, but none has yet succeeded in opening a site. California Gov. Jerry Brown just vetoed legislation that would have helped start a pilot program in San Francisco, which last year saw 200 overdose deaths, compared with Philadelphia's 1,217. "Philadelphians are dying at an alarming rate," said Jose Benitez, the head of the needle exchange Prevention Point, who will serve as the new nonprofit's president and treasurer. "This is one response to that. It's just one of many responses that we need in the city." In the early 1990s, AIDS activists had been operating Prevention Point unofficially and in secret, with the written support of Mayor Wilson W. Goode. Then, nearly half of the city's new HIV infections were caused by intravenous drug use. Rendell officially authorized the program in July 1992, and dared state officials who threatened legal action against the program to arrest him first. He said in January that the fight for needle exchanges reminded him of the fight for safe injection sites and commended the city for supporting them. Rendell said his advocacy for safe injection sites is personal: In January 2016, John Decker, the son of his close friend, attorney Tad Decker, died of a heroin overdose at 30, alone in his parents' home while the couple was on vacation. "I knew John Decker since he was five years old he was good looking, charming, had a great sense of humor. He was friends with my son. The world was his oyster," Rendell said Tuesday night. "And he got injured playing college lacrosse, [and became addicted to opioids], and for that he had to die alone in a bed? If we save one John Decker, it will be worth it." Safehouse has raised $200,000 for planning, board members said Tuesday night. There's no time frame for Safehouse to open what it calls an overdose prevention site, and the group is still working with community members around the city to find the best location for the site, Benitez said. More money needs to be raised as well. "We've had a lot of positive conversations toward private funding at this point," Benitez said. "We think there are some people who have lost family members [to opioid overdoses] who would like to contribute significantly to this project." Rendell is a member of the corporation's board of directors; the two other board members are Benitez and Ronda Goldfein of the AIDS Law Project of Pennsylvania, who will serve as vice president and secretary. The nonprofit will also receive guidance from an advisory committee that includes some of the city's most prominent health and philanthropic leaders, including Ana V. Diez Roux, dean of Drexel University's Dornsife School of Public Health; Larry R. Kaiser, CEO of Temple University's health system; Thomas Farley, the city health commissioner; David Jones, the commissioner of the city's Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services; and Sister Mary Scullion, president and executive director of Project HOME, a housing, poverty and homelessness services organization. The group describes Safehouse as a public health approach to the city's opioid crisis, part of a broader program of harm-reduction to help keep people in addiction safe from overdose, an ever more pressing problem as fentanyl, synthetic cannabinoids, and other contaminants have been making the city's heroin supply deadlier than ever. Drugs will not be available at Safehouse, and staffers will not help participants inject drugs. Those interested in treatment will be able to start medication-assisted treatment on-site, the group said, and the site will also employ recovery specialists, social workers, and case managers to encourage treatment. Back in January, city officials announced that they would allow a nonprofit to open a site to "meet [people in addiction] where they are, offer help getting treatment, and help them stay alive until they are ready to get treatment," said Farley at the time. That announcement came after a full year of research and debate, including visiting a site in Vancouver and commissioning a report on evidence collected in Canada and Europe, where the sites have operated for decades. Its conclusion: A single site in Philadelphia would save 25 to 75 lives a year and millions of dollars in hospital costs and public funds, while reducing public injection of drugs and other neighborhood problems. But the idea raised controversy immediately, ranging from Kensington residents tired of seeing their community bear the brunt of the city's drug crisis, to state and federal officials insisting that the concept allowing people to use illicit drugs would itself be illegal. Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein told WHYY earlier this summer that city leaders should expect legal action if they permit a facility to open, he said. The announcement came just a week after U.S. Surgeon General Jerome M. Adams, in Philadelphia for a march against drug addiction stigma, said the Trump administration believes safe injection sites would violate federal law, and advocated for expanding needle exchanges. Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross said in an interview Tuesday night that he has met with Safehouse representatives. He acknowledged the depths of the overdose crisis "something has to be done" but said he still has unanswered questions about how police will interact with the sites. Rosenstein's comments, he said, could make the site a hard sell. "The next step for us is just sitting back and waiting, if and when it will even take hold," he said. "By no means am I saying I'm a proponent." Goldfein, who is married to David Lee Preston, an Inquirer/Daily News editor, said Safehouse leaders are aware of federal drug laws. "But we don't believe that this action is inconsistent with them," she said. "Our action is related to just saving lives, and we're not trying to be an affront to law enforcement. We are looking at an entity that has a very narrow purpose: preventing fatal overdoses." Rendell said he is not worried about threats of legal action from the federal government. "Federal prisons are much nicer than city prisons or state prisons," he said. "I'll be happy to go to Allenwood for a month and play tennis." More seriously, he added: "I'm absolutely at peace that I'm doing the right thing. I have nothing to gain, and nothing to lose because I'm not running for election. I guess the majority of people might disagree with me, but I did this because I believe this is the right thing to do. I believe that as strongly as I can." After a year in which an estimated 1,200 people died of drug overdoses in Philadelphia, city officials now are saying they would welcome safe injection sites as a harm-reduction measure aimed at keeping people in addiction alive long enough to get into drug treatment. Philadelphia could become the first American city to host these sites, which may be the most politically contentious public-health measures around. Advocates see them as common sense tools to help people in addiction while also cleaning up neighborhoods plagued by public drug using. Opponents fear they will just encourage drug abuse, and invite outsiders into already stressed neighborhoods such as Kensington. And some people are conflicted between wishing to help people in need, and fearing the consequences of appearing to sanction illegal activity. Here are some frequently asked questions about safe injection sites; please add your questions in the comments area and we will try to answer them. What is a safe injection site? These are places where drug users can inject heroin under medical supervision to protect against overdose. The concept behind this "harm reduction" measure is similar to that of programs like Prevention Point, which operates a needle exchange, provides health care, and helps get users into treatment. If they are not ready to stop using, a safe place to inject can at least keep them alive. Which other cities have them? None in the U.S., though others, such as Seattle, are seriously considering them. They exist in numerous European and Canadian cities, including Toronto, which has seen its overdose deaths decline significantly since opening a facility. How is this any different from Hamsterdam on HBOs The Wire? Social media has been having fun with this comparison, but in truth, there is no comparison. The HBO series' Hamsterdam was a couple of vacant and very violent Baltimore city blocks where there was no law enforcement, so the drug trade could operate without interference. Safe injection sites where there is no drug trafficking, and which are supervised by medical staff, not violent criminals are small, regulated facilities that would not make for such entertaining television viewing as The Wire offers. Why would a city allow a facility to host illegal activity? People suffering from addiction cannot choose to just stop using. But if given a place to use safely, they can also be shown outreach efforts aimed at helping them recover and get their lives back on track. In addition to lives saved, cities save money if they don't have to rush ambulances to the scenes of overdoses and provide hospital care. Wont it just encourage people to use drugs if they know they can do so in relative safety? Studies of existing safe injection sites indicate that they do not increase drug use or crime. Ive heard people get heroin at safe injection sites. Providing drugs is not what these sites do. Users bring their own drugs, and inject them under supervision by medical staff, who administer the reversal drug naloxone if they overdose. This can be lifesaving for people who do not realize it if the heroin they have is especially pure, or has been adulterated with the powerful synthetic opioid, fentanyl. Also, if a person who has gotten off drugs relapses, their system cannot handle the same dose they used to use without incident. It used to be that police just arrested drug users and dealers. Why not just do that now? The opioid epidemic is so enormous, law enforcement officials such as Gary Tuggle, the former head of the DEA in Philadelphia, agree that "you can't arrest your way out of it." But the fact that this epidemic is predominantly affecting white people, unlike the 1990s crack epidemic, has led some to conclude that race is why the response is so much different to the opioid crisis. And that concern is a factor in the debate over safe injection sites. Wont the police just swoop in and arrest everyone whos at a safe injection site using drugs? Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross recently said that his thinking on safe injection sites has evolved as the death toll has soared and as he has studied the issue, though he still has questions about policing an area with a safe injection site. Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner pledged his office would not prosecute people operating sites, or using at them. What about the state and federal law enforcement agencies? Some Pennsylvania officials, including Attorney General Josh Shapiro, are raising potential red flags. Gov. Wolf also has reservations, but said he wouldn't stand in Philadelphia's way. But how federal officials would receive such sites is not yet known. How do we know people will even use the sites? Research indicates that the sites tend to be used by people who do not have stable housing. University of Pennsylvania researchers recently surveyed people with addiction, who told them they would use the sites not only because of the health benefits but also because they don't want to use out in the open, especially where children might see them. What are the arguments against these sites? Some people have objected on ethical and moral grounds. Others have suggested that if someone gets into a car accident after leaving a site impaired, liability could be an issue for the operator of the site. Others say it is an obvious violation of the law to be using illegal substances, and cannot be condoned. Why should taxpayers foot the bill for these sites? City health officials emphasized Tuesday that they are inviting private entities to fund and operate the sites not obligating tax dollars. They also noted that saving people from overdosing would actually save money in health care and emergency responses. For instance, one study estimated that Baltimore would save $6-million in city costs by opening a site. Wont having one of these sites in a neighborhood affect property values? Property values are affected by many factors. But safe injection sites in Canada have been shown to reduce public disorder associated with drug use, such as open heroin injection and discarded needles, which likely harm values. They also have not been shown to increase crime. SOURCE: Inquirer files Egg Harbor Township resident Holly Horner found a couple of blue button jellyfish Sept. 25 on Brigantine beach, including this one. Though commonly called jellyfish, they are colonies of polyps. Read more Whether they cling, sting, or leave swimmers alone, jellyfish at the Jersey Shore tend to come in milky-white or beige hues, maybe with a hint of red or purple. So "jellyspotters" are buzzing about an eye-catching new arrival: a vivid blue creature commonly called the blue button jellyfish. Multiple sightings were reported in late September on a Facebook page called New Jersey Jellyspotters. "They're gorgeous," said Egg Harbor Township resident Holly Horner, a wildlife photographer who spotted two of the blue visitors on Brigantine Beach on Sept. 25. "The color is just amazing." These blue button creatures likely washed up on Jersey beaches as the result of currents fueled by Hurricane Florence, said Paul Bologna, director of Montclair State University's marine biology and coastal sciences program. They are not true jellyfish but actually colonies of polyps, somewhat like a Portuguese man-o-war, he said. Bologna has not yet examined the new arrivals, but he is hoping one of the beachgoers sends him a specimen for DNA analysis. "I have never seen them in New Jersey," Bologna said. "I've seen them in Florida. They are tropical in nature." With support from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Bologna and his colleagues have analyzed the DNA of several other nonnative jellies in recent years, in part to pinpoint their origin and analyze their impact on the environment. Among them are dime-sized clinging jellies, which deliver a sting nasty enough to send someone to the hospital. These pests were found in Barnegat Bay this year for the first time, and were spotted in 2016 in the Shrewsbury, Metedeconk, and Manasquan Rivers in North Jersey. The blue button creatures have a much milder sting, which at most can irritate the skin. Suzanne Schenker of New Hope told NJ.com she found four specimens in Beach Haven on Sept. 25. "They were so blue they almost looked unreal," she said. Nearly 4,000 people have signed a petition calling for Penn Law professor Amy Wax's firing after she aired her grievances about the testimony of Christine Blasey Ford during the confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. "I think it violates principles of basic fair play for her to be bringing this up," Wax said in an interview posted last week with Brown professor Glenn Loury for his YouTube series, The Glenn Show. "I think she should have held her tongue if I were her, I would have. I think basic dignity and fairness dictate that, you know, it's too late, Ms. Ford, even if there would have been consequences to bitching about it at the time." Wax suggested Ford, a professor and research psychologist, was exaggerating her trauma, saying that even if Kavanaugh did engage in a "momentary act of recklessness," that it "didn't create any permanent harm, except through this manufactured idea that this is such a horrible, traumatic thing." The petition, launched by the advocacy organization Care2 which focuses on ending rape culture, among other issues went up Tuesday at 5 p.m. and was growing in signatures by the minute. It's not the first time people have called for Wax's firing, though in the past, it has been the Penn Law community faculty, alumni, and students who have organized around the issue. In March, the Black Law Students Association organized a campaign to get Wax fired after she spoke on Loury's show about black students' performance in her class. Penn Law responded by removing Wax from teaching mandatory first-year law courses. Wax did not immediately respond to a request for comment but has said in the past that Penn Law is censoring "civil discourse" and consequently academic freedom. Penn Law did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Conservatives have taken up her cause: In April, Penn Law donor Paul S. Levy stepped down from two of his university board positions as a form of protest of what he called law school dean Ted Ruger's "unacceptable" treatment of Wax. That same month, the National Association of Scholars gave Wax an award for "her continued academic courage in the face of threats to her livelihood and attacks on her integrity." Earlier this year, after Wax said that she didn't think she'd ever seen a black student graduate in the top quarter of the class at the university, Penn Law alumna Ayana Lewis said in an interview that no student "should have to be forced to sit and learn from someone who has devalued, disrespected, and lied about them." When it comes to matters of sexual assault, the question of how a law professor should communicate with her students has weighed heavy on the mind of Anne Coughlin, a law professor at the University of Virginia. Coughlin, who teaches the law of rape and sexual assault, says that many students on campus have found the hearings to be painful and traumatic. Some are survivors of sexual assault. At the same time, some male students have concerns about being falsely accused of sexual assault. It's important, Coughlin says, not to trivialize anyone's experience and to approach these issues with respect, regardless of her views on the issue. But what's most important to her what she feels is a professional obligation to her students is to model a different approach to sexual-assault allegations, one that prioritizes respect and careful investigation and does not trivialize a woman's trauma, as she said it seems Wax did in her interview. "As law professors, we should be committed to a world where women are able to come forward without feeling humiliated," she said, "without feeling like they're the ones who are being put on trial." Brian Leiter, a law professor at the University of Chicago who has previously blogged about Wax, said it wasn't a professor's responsibility to make sure students are comfortable. "The 'comfort feelings' of students are irrelevant: There would be no academic freedom if they counted!" Though he described her views as "typically foolish," he wrote in an email that "it is not a firing offense at any university committed to the principles of academic freedom." "She is free to speak out about a matter of clear public interest, and to hold a view most people reject," he said. "A professor's duties to her students are to responsibly and effectively teach the material of her discipline, to treat the students with professionalism and respect, and to grade fairly based on student mastery of the material." Camden Mayor Frank Moran is weighing whether to veto a proposal for a controversial billboard in North Camden that was approved by the zoning board late Monday night, despite fears from residents that it would add to the city's blight and obstruct waterfront views. The billboard, proposed by Cherry Hill-based Interstate Outdoor Advertising in April, would be 167 feet high and target commuters crossing the Ben Franklin Bridge between Philadelphia and New Jersey. Interstate CEO Drew Katz, son of the late philanthropist Lewis Katz, sought a variance because billboards are prohibited at Elm Street and Delaware Avenue, where the billboard would be erected. It was approved 9-1. City spokesperson Vince Basara said Moran would review the application and its effects on the Coopers Grant neighborhood. "The Mayor recognizes the decisions of the City's zoning board and will take into account all the facts, including the impact of any redevelopment plans, a review of the meeting minutes, not to mention the effect on the residents living in the immediate impact area, before making a decision or taking any action," Basara said. Basara did not say when the mayor would reach a decision. Dozens of North Camden residents and groups packed Monday's meeting, arguing that a billboard at the foot of the bridge would be an eyesore, add to light pollution, and hurt redevelopment along the high-value waterfront. Proponents of the project praised Drew Katz for his philanthropy in Camden and held that the billboard funds would help local nonprofits with tight budgets expand resources to more residents. Residents divided on the issue used the public comment portion of the seven-hour meeting to direct insults at each other and Drew Katz, and took aim at companies that have received millions in state tax incentives to move to the city. Katz's father, a co-owner of the Philadelphia Media Network, publisher of the Inquirer and Daily News, died in a plane crash in May 2014. Betsy Clifford, executive director of Camden Lutheran Housing, a group opposed to the project, said that the rift between residents at the meeting was "disheartening" but that testimony from those in struggling communities needed to be addressed. She said the group continues to oppose the project but will explore options that would benefit all residents while keeping an eyesore out of North Camden. Some alternatives, she said, include a different location for the billboard or the possibility of Interstate donating the profits from one of its existing billboards to Camden organizations. "We were taken aback by the raw emotion and then the reaction by the zoning board members," Clifford said. "North Camden certainly has its problems but other neighborhoods are still struggling a lot more." Waterfront developers opposed the billboard as well, saying that it would block the view of the Philadelphia skyline and hinder plans to revitalize one of the city's greatest assets. Liberty Property Trust, one of the developers opposed, is building American Water's headquarters along the waterfront. Kevin Sheehan, an attorney representing Liberty Property Trust, declined to comment. On Monday, Sheehan said surrounding neighborhoods would "suffer as a result of this billboard" and its impact on development. Clifford said the community should anticipate similar issues as the city's master plan is executed. "With redevelopment on the waterfront, there will be challenges ahead, and we have to expect that," Clifford said. At Monday's meeting, board attorney Kyle Eingorn drew up a last-minute agreement with Interstate stating that all profits would be donated to Camden charities and that the company must submit its tax returns annually to the city. If the billboard is sold to another company, the agreement states that the profits must continue to be directed to nonprofits in the city. Donald Sico, spokesperson for Interstate, said there is no timeline for the billboard's construction. Drew Katz previously said it would take eight months to build and cost $800,000. The expected yearly profit is $200,000, all of which he said will go to Camden nonprofits. The Charitable Fund, which would review grant applications from city nonprofits, has not yet been established, Sico said. "Last night, we heard sincere and passionate arguments on both sides of the issue," Sico said. "[Katz] is going to continue his outreach to the North Camden community and is available to meet with the mayor to answer any concerns." Election websites for Georgia (top left), New Mexico (top right), Tennessee (bottom left) and Vermont (bottom right) are blocked to users outside the United States. Pennsylvania's website, in the center, is also limited to only users within the country. Read more Thousands of registered Pennsylvania voters who live outside the United States are being blocked from accessing absentee ballots on the state's website in a move intended to beef up election security. Several other states, including New Mexico, Tennessee, Georgia, and Vermont, also appear to be blocking foreign access to their election sites. "This should be a red flashing light issue in the state of Pennsylvania right now. They need to solve it today," said Susan Dzieduszycka-Suinat, president and CEO of the nonprofit U.S. Vote Foundation. "Because they are actually suppressing votes if this is how it is right now." >> UPDATE: Voters reported being blocked from Pa. election site as early as 2016 Under UOCAVA, an acronym for the law enshrining their voting rights and procedures, military and overseas civilian voters are supposed to be able to request an absentee ballot and have it sent to them to fill out and return. In Pennsylvania, voters can request absentee ballots by mail or as a download link by email. Late last month, those emails began going out, along with detailed step-by-step instructions. But when voters outside the United States went to log in, they were met with an error page: "The page you are looking for cannot be found. Error 3759." It's not actually an error, or a temporary server problem or a wrong URL: It's an intentional attempt to block foreign traffic. "You have very little information as a voter abroad about how you can go about fixing this," said Jeffrey Cheng, 31, who has lived in Sweden for four years after having lived in Philadelphia for eight years. Cheng had been able to figure out a work-around through a technical loophole that was later closed. He said the Department of State told him to use a VPN, which funnels internet traffic through remote networks, in this case to route his request through the United States. It wasn't a major problem for Cheng but, he said, he works in IT and knows what to do. Others might not. "This is definitely putting a barrier to voting," he said, noting that trustworthy VPN services are generally not free "and they're not easily accessible for everyone." Department of State spokesperson Wanda Murren said Tuesday that officials have begun notifying voters about the issue and giving them a work-around, which by nature means extra work: Voters who are unable to access their ballots should call the state help desk at 1-866-472-7873 or send an email to STSVCSURE_Helpdesk@pa.gov, and a worker will email a ballot directly to the voter. "Due to increased security measures that safeguard the voting process, some overseas absentee voters may have trouble accessing the website," Murren said in a statement. State websites were updated Monday and Tuesday with the contact information for the help desk. About 4,000 voters have already registered for overseas or military absentee ballots, and it's unknown how many will ultimately do so. In the November 2016 election, 19,351 civilian Pennsylvania voters abroad requested absentee ballots and 10,833 Pennsylvania voters requested mail-in ballots because of active military status. New Jersey doesn't appear to be blocking access. A spokesperson for the New Jersey Department of State did not respond to emailed questions Tuesday. For voters who may already face obstacles from time-zone differences that make contacting the Department of State inconvenient to more dire issues such as active combat the lack of information can be frustrating and even prevent someone from voting. Other states have also limited access to election sites based on location. People abroad were unable this week to load sites from New Mexico, Tennessee, Vermont, and Georgia. The Inquirer and Daily News replicated these results using a VPN routing through other countries. Calls and emails to the offices of the Tennessee, Georgia, and Vermont secretaries of state were not returned Tuesday. A spokesperson for the Georgia secretary of state acknowledged the geo-blocking policy in August to Buzzfeed News. A spokesperson for the New Mexico Office of the Secretary of State said that office began blocking overseas access to its election site earlier this year. "Email works fine, so we can email people overseas and they can email us back," Alex Curtas, the spokesperson, wrote in an email. "But, for security reasons, someone living overseas can't access our web systems (like requesting an absentee ballot through our online system)." John Merrill, the Alabama secretary of state, said his office has found a compromise: Overseas access remains generally blocked, but specific places are whitelisted, or allowed. After all, he pointed out, his office knows each voter's location. "If we don't have somebody in Yugoslavia, we don't really need to open the portal to Yugoslavia," he said in an interview. Alabama has used this system since 2016. David Beirne, the director of the Federal Voting Assistance Program, said in a statement that the program recognizes the importance of cybersecurity concerns, but "access to key election information for our military, their families, and overseas citizens needs to be considered in their security approach." He identified the Alabama approach of whitelisting certain networks and locations as "important for those voters who may wish to participate in the 2018 election, but find themselves in less-than-hospitable environments." Murren said Pennsylvania is working on longer-term solutions "that will meet our increased standards of security." It's an important lesson about unintended consequences and blind spots, said Justin Levitt, a law professor at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles whose work in elections and democracy includes serving in the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice from 2015-17. "There are lots of security measures that election officials are urged to take, and thinking through the consequences is important," he said. "I don't think that anybody in Pennsylvania deliberately set the system up to cause problems for UOCAVA voters, but it's an important example of why all of the voting populations need to be kept in mind when you're designing general policy." What to do if you can't access the Pennsylvania elections website Contact the Pennsylvania Department of State's Help Desk at 1-866-472-7873 or STSVCSURE_Helpdesk@pa.gov and an employee will verify your identity and email you a ballot directly. You can also contact your local county election officials find their information here or the Federal Voting Assistance Program at 1-800-438-VOTE (8683) and vote@fvap.gov. The nonprofit U.S. Vote Foundation runs an Overseas Vote program that also provides assistance to voters abroad. J-Nae Kettoman doesn't care whether she looks strange, scrubbing in like a surgeon with Dial soap brought from home, then snapping on latex gloves before lining up to enter the visiting room at State Correctional Institution Phoenix. It's just part of the regimen that Kettoman, a Dauphin County resident who works for the commonwealth as a clerk-typist, has devised to avoid setting off the prison's ion mobility spectrometer a device that analyzes swabs of every visitor's hands and pockets to detect trace levels of narcotics. Some scour their photo IDs and car keys with soap and water in the restroom off the prison lobby. Others keep a pristine set of clothing for prison visits in a Ziploc baggie. One woman skips her medication on days she goes to visit, because she's been told it could set off the ion scanner. "We just were thinking: How can we get around touching anything else once we've washed our hands?" Kettoman, whose husband is serving 10 to 20 years, said of the ritual that she and a friend developed after her second alarm earlier this year. A third strike would lead to a six-month suspension of her visiting privileges. "It's just nerve-racking." Visitors complain that the extremely sensitive machines are prone to false positives either from incidental contamination (studies have found cocaine traces on up to 90 percent of U.S. currency) or from other substances that may trigger positive readings. The Department of Corrections says the machines, in use at each of the state's 25 prisons, function as intended. Now, as part of a $15 million initiative to keep drugs out of prisons, the department is doubling down on this technology, purchasing two new ion scanners for each prison at a cost of $1.86 million. The new scanners allow the department to install updates to keep up with new variations on synthetic cannabinoids. The department, which began the switch to its next-generation Rapiscan Itemiser 3E scanners in July 2017, says the matter is urgent. It has published intercepted letters that articulate the extreme measures visitors undertake to smuggle in drugs, including hiding them in body cavities. << READ MORE: Pa. prisons spend $15M after guards were sickened by K2. But what if it was just in their heads? The scanners which work by vaporizing a sample, positively charging it, and measuring its molecular weight and shape as it drifts through the machine are scientifically sound, said Jennifer Verkouteren, a scientist with the National Institute of Standards and Technology's Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, which is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce. Where they're imperfect, she said, is in distinguishing traces of illegal drugs from the thousands of other compounds that people could come in contact with in their soaps, hand creams, perfumes, and medications. "It's hard to make that technology proof against the universe of compounds people can put on themselves, and that might then get introduced as an environmental contaminant into the instrument," Verkouteren said. Amy Worden, a spokesperson for the Department of Corrections, agreed that ion scanners are known to test positive for certain prescription skin creams and for such medications as oxycodone, but denied that other household substances can trigger them. Worden did not immediately respond to requests for information on how many visitors scanned positive and how many were suspended as a result. "The scanners do not alarm on a false positive, " she said. "They alarm to a programmed known substance. If that substance is detected, the machine will alarm. The department sets threshold levels of substances to rule out any incidental contact with substances that an individual may have had during normal daily routines." Yet Stacey Hannem, a professor of criminology at Wilfrid Laurier University in Ontario, who studies the use of ion scanners in prisons, said researchers have found that various detergents, or even poppy seeds, could trigger ion scans for opiates. "I've heard stories of guys inside who will tell their family, 'It's too stressful, don't come,' because their mom's or wife's rings off the ion scanner, and it can be scary and traumatic," she said. That's unfortunate, she added, because visits are a proven predictor of success, linked in one analysis with a 13 percent decline in recidivism. "If we want people to do well on the outside," she said, "we need them to be able to maintain those relationships." Introduced into prisons in the 1990s, ion scanners have ignited controversy around the country and internationally. The federal Bureau of Prisons temporarily suspended use of the scanners after complaints of false positives a decade ago, but reinstated them. Visitors and prison staff in New York, Massachusetts, and Maryland have sued prisons over what they said were inaccurate readings. California, which recently ran a three-year pilot of ion scanners, has for now abandoned the technology in its visiting rooms. In Canada, Parliament has been reckoning with the scanners after the Office of the Correctional Investigator reported that "these machines can be oversensitive and unreliable, and often produce what are known as 'false-positive' reports." Pennsylvania first deployed the scanners in the mid-1990s, and almost immediately drew criticism. "The first day, I got a call from an 87-year-old grandmother from South Carolina who tested positive for ecstasy. She was like, 'I don't even know what ecstasy is,'" said Angus Love of the Pennsylvania Institutional Law Project. He said the Corrections Department resolved concerns by recalibrating its machines to be less sensitive and reducing penalties for positive scans. But those who repeatedly test positive feel differently. Rebecca Mitchell, a 73-year-old official visitor for the Pennsylvania Prison Society at several state prisons in central Pennsylvania, said that after a couple of positive scans, she decided to stop taking her antidepressant medications on days she visits. She had a note from her doctor indicating that the drugs could set off the machines. "But one of the prisons would not honor my doctor's letter," she said. "It was embarrassing and frustrating, because the prisoners don't get the visit, and the prisoners [may then be] monitored for drugs." Worden said a paper prescription, not just a doctor's note, is required. In Pennsylvania, a visitor who sets off the scanner once may wash hands and try again. Those who fail twice are typically allowed to visit through a glass barrier. But any subsequent alarm can trigger a suspension, ranging from 180 days (on a third failure) to "indefinitely" (on the fifth). Now, visitors are worried that the next generation of scanners could bring a fresh set of problems. Several regular visitors to Graterford Prison and its replacement, SCI Phoenix, said their positive tests started only after a new ion scanner was introduced last year. Kettoman, who'd never had a positive scan in eight years, tested positive for ketamine, a prescription sedative that is also abused as a party drug. "I was offered the opportunity to speak to a lieutenant, but declined. I was already embarrassed and upset, trying to keep from crying in front of the packed lobby full of visitors," she said. On a subsequent visit, she said, she tested positive for benzodiazepine, a prescription tranquilizer. She went to wash her hands and then to her disbelief tested positive for an entirely different drug. That's when she started with the gloves and a special laundry regimen, eliminating scented detergents and fabric softener that she fears could trigger the scanners. She doesn't want to end up in the same position as Dana Cooper, an Emmaus store manager who hasn't been able to visit her husband at SCI Phoenix in two months because she had three positive scans in the last year. "I don't drink. I don't do drugs. I don't smoke," said Cooper, who had never previously set off the machine. "People don't realize the effect the ion scanner has on visitors, inmate families, marriages." Maurice Everett, a lifer at Phoenix, said his brother, who's been visiting without fail every other week for 23 years, was also turned away twice in the last year. He feels as if a cloud of suspicion has been cast over his family. The same goes for Antoinette Haren, who had a series of positive scans at the same prison after seven years visiting her husband without any incidents. After the first reading, she scrubbed her hands, then slathered them with sanitizer. "But the guards were saying the ion scanner will pick it up as a drug," she said. "So I'm like, 'Let me get this straight: You have a machine that will pick up hand sanitizer as a drug? And you know of this?'" Now, she's cut out her perfume and makeup. She brings her own soap to wash her hands, ID, and the key to her locker. She tries to avoid touching anything, even a doorknob, after washing her hands. Even so, just recently the scanner at Phoenix went off again. Her visits are now suspended for 180 days. Three key Republican Senators Jeff Flake of Arizona, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowksi of Alaska have all criticized President Trump for mocking Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, who has accused Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexual assault. Read more At a political rally in Mississippi Tuesday night, President Trump mocked a woman who testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee that Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her at a party while they both were in high school. The comments have prompted criticism from senators expected to be key swing votes on Kavanaugh's nomination. "I had one beer! How did you get home? 'I don't remember,'" Trump said, mocking Christine Blasey Ford's recollection of events to laughter from the large crowd gathered in Southaven, Miss. "How did you get there? 'I don't remember.' Where is the place? 'I don't remember.' How many years ago was it? 'I don't know. I don't know. I don't know.'" "Upstairs, downstairs where was it? I don't know," Trump added. Ford told the Judiciary Committee that she was assaulted in an upstairs bedroom by Kavanaugh and his friend, Mark Judge. Ford alleged that Kavanaugh pinned her on the bed, attempted to remove her clothes, and covered her mouth when she attempted to scream. "I thought he was going to accidentally kill me," Ford said of Kavanaugh, citing his inebriated state. Kavanaugh has vehemently denied the allegations of Ford and two other women Deborah Ramirez and Julie Swetnick. The comments marked a dramatic reversal for Trump, who just last week told reporters he thought Ford's testimony was "very compelling" and called her a "very credible witness." >> READ MORE: Sexual harassment and assault can affect women's health for years, Pitt study suggests Three Republican senators considered the only swing votes on Kavanaugh's nomination Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Susan Collins of Maine and Jeff Flake of Arizona all criticized Trump comments. "I thought the President's comments yesterday mocking Dr. Ford were wholly inappropriate and in my view unacceptable," Murkowski told reporters Wednesday afternoon, adding she's "taking everything into account" when it comes to determining whether she'll vote to confirm Kavanaugh. Earlier in the day, Collins told reporters that the president's comments about Ford were "just plain wrong." Flake, who demanded the FBI be given a week to investigate the three women's claims against Kavanaugh, told the Today show he was appalled by Trump's comments about Ford and her testimony. "There's no time and no place for remarks like that. But to discuss something this sensitive at a political rally is just not rightIt's kind of appalling," Flake said, standing next to his colleague, Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware. Here are other recent developments: Sarah Sanders: Trump was stating facts, not mocking accuser White House press secretary Sarah Sanders, giving her first press briefing in nearly a month, claimed President Trump was "stating the facts" when he mocked Ford during his rally Thursday night and suggested the media wasn't being fair to Kavanaugh. "Ever single word Judge Kavanaugh has been picked apart every single word, second by second of his testimony has been picked apart," Sanders said. "Yet if anybody says anything about the accusations that have been thrown against him, that's totally off-limits and outrageous." Sanders was also asked about the scope of the FBI's investigation, refusing to deny a Bloomberg report that the FBI lacks White House approval to question either Kavanaugh or Ford. "Both Judge Kavanaugh and Dr. Ford were questions in the most public way possible by the members of the Senate," Sanders said. "If they had additional questions for either one of them, they had a time and an opportunity certainly to ask those." Republican senator: Ford was treated fairly, Kavanaugh treated like crap Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, who has been one of Kavanaugh's most outspoken defenders, said he thought Trump's Supreme Court nominee had been "treated like crap." "I'm the first person to say, 'I want to hear from Dr. Ford.' I thought she was treated respectfully. I thought Kavanaugh was treated like crap," Graham said to boos during an interview at The Atlantic's Media Ideas Festival. Despite his support of Kavanaugh, Graham said Trump was wrong to mock Ford's testimony during his rally Tuesday night. "I don't like what the president said last night," Graham said. Kellyanne Conway: Accuser has been treated like a Faberge egg White House counselor Kellyanne Conway defended Trump's comments mocking Ford's testimony to reporters Wednesday morning, telling reporters Ford's allegations of having been sexually assaulted by Kavanaugh have yet to be corroborated. "She's been treated like a Faberge egg by all of us, beginning with me and the president," Conway said. "He's pointing out factual inconsistencies. Do you have corroboration for her claims? Excuse me, can you fill in her memory gaps or her factual inconsistencies?" Conway, who told CNN's Jake Tapper on Sunday that "credible and compelling are words that many of us have used to describe" Ford's testimony, didn't specify what inconsistencies she was referring to. Conway also warned moderate Democratic senators, like West Virginia's Joe Manchin and Indiana's Joe Donnelly, that if they vote against Kavanaugh's nomination, they'd be "complicit in a process that is trying to destroy a man and that revealed the identity of a woman who wanted to remain anonymous." Fords friend denies claim made by accusers former boyfriend Monica McLean, a friend of Ford, denied ever being coached by Ford on how to take a polygraph test. "I have never had Christine Blasey Ford, or anybody else, prepare me, or provide any other type of assistance whatsoever in connection with any polygraph exam I have taken at anytime," McLean said in a statement released by Ford's legal team. The claim Ford coached McLean on how to take a polygraph test came from a man who claimed to be Ford's former boyfriend. The man, whose name was redacted in a declaration first obtained by Fox News, claimed Ford helped McLean, who had been interviewing for jobs with the FBI and a U.S. Attorney's office, prepare for a potential polygraph test. During her testimony before the senate Judiciary Committee, Ford denied ever giving tips or advice to anyone looking to take a polygraph test. Two Yale classmates pull their support for Kavanaugh Michael Proctor and Mark Osler, two former Yale classmates of Kavanaugh, withdrew their endorsements of his Supreme Court nomination due to his testimony last week. >> READ MORE: Have young men's attitudes toward sexual violence changed since Kavanaugh's youth? "In our view that testimony was partisan, and not judicious, and inconsistent with what we expect from a Justice of the Supreme Court, particularly dealing with a co-equal branch of government," Procter and Osler wrote in a letter to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R, Iowa) and ranking member Dianne Feinstein (D., Calif). Procter and Osler were among the 27 classmates who wrote a letter backing Kavanaugh's nomination in August. On Monday, three former Kavanaugh clerks who had also previously supported his nomination said in a letter to Grassley and Feinstein they were "deeply troubled" by the allegations he faces. New York Times obtains 1983 letter: Were loud, obnoxious drunks The New York Times obtained a letter written by Kavanaugh in 1983 that appears to contract claims the Supreme Court nominee made during his testimony to the Senate Judiciary Committee. The letter, written ahead of a "beach week" in Ocean City, Md., includes references to drinking and women, and ends with an instruction to warn neighbors "that we're loud, obnoxious drunks with prolific pukers among us." Through a lawyer, Kavanaugh confirmed to the Times he had written the letter to organize "Beach Week" in the summer of 1983. Kerri Kupec, a White House spokeswoman, said in a statement: "It seems The New York Times is committed to embarrassing Judge Kavanaugh with three-decade-old stories of adolescent drinking." >> READ MORE: Here's how Brett Kavanaugh could have redeemed himself | Ronnie Polaneczky The issue of Kavanaugh's past drinking history has become relevant due to comments he made during his testimony, in which he claimed he never blacked out or suffered memory loss from drinking too much. He also claimed that references to vomiting stemmed from his difficulty holding down "spicy food," not excessive drinking. "I'm known to have a weak stomach, and I always have," Kavanaugh said when asked by Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D., R.I.), about references to "Beach Week Ralph Club." Kavanaugh largely avoided answering Whitehouse's questions directly, instead pressing the senator on his own drinking habits. "I like beer. I like beer. I don't know if you do," Kavanaugh shot back. >> READ MORE: Christine Blasey Ford, Brett Kavanaugh, and the day the laughter stopped for America's privileged | Will Bunch >> READ MORE: Kavanaugh creates #MeToo moment for accused men | Christine Flowers Alexandria, Va, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) today applauded Members of Congress for including key provisions related to safe disposal of expired or no longer needed medication in the final opioid legislative package that has passed both chambers of Congress with bipartisan support. Opioid abuse is truly a national crisis, and one that the hospice community is dedicated to helping prevent and treat, said NHPCO President and CEO Edo Banach. In fact, as a key part of this nations grief support safety net, hospices are acutely aware of the toll that this epidemic takes on families and communities. A provision in the passed bill will help reduce the number of unused controlled substances at risk of diversion or misuse by allowing qualified hospice employees to safely dispose of these medications on site after the death of a patient, or when the controlled substance is expired or no longer needed because the hospice patients plan of care has been modified. Granting appropriate hospice professionals the legal authority to dispose of unused medication after a hospice patients death would not only alleviate grieving families of this responsibility but also help prevent potential diversion or illicit use of these drugs. Opioids play a key role in alleviating pain and suffering for those with advanced illness and at the end of life. Patients admitted to hospice care frequently require intensive medication management of both chronic conditions and symptoms associated with end-stage disease such as pain, shortness of breath, nausea, delirium, and depression. Our nations hospice and palliative care providers can be an important part of the care continuum for people with serious pain, including those with serious illness and facing the end of life, and should be looked at as a resource for these populations. ### About NHPCO NHPCO is the oldest and largest nonprofit membership organization representing hospice and palliative care programs and professionals in the United States. NHPCOs mission is to lead and mobilize social change for improved care at the end of life. U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (left), a Bucks County Republican, and Democrat Scott Wallace (right) are facing off in one of the toughest U.S. House races in the Philadelphia region. Read more On paper, a Bucks County-based congressional seat held by the GOP looks like the perfect pickup opportunity for Democrats: The district voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016. Pennsylvania's new congressional map made it slightly less Republican. Democrats made historic gains in the area's municipal elections last year. But a new poll shows Republican incumbent Brian Fitzpatrick is ahead in the First Congressional District race by a small margin and has gained ground since the spring. Fitzpatrick has a 50 percent to 46 percent edge among likely voters over his Democratic challenger, multimillionaire philanthropist Scott Wallace, according to a survey by Monmouth University using a "standard" turnout model. Fitzpatrick is out front despite the fact that 54 percent of voters in his district don't approve of President Trump's job performance, and a plurality want Democrats to control Congress. "When you look at the underlying political environment in this district, you would expect the Democrat to be ahead," Patrick Murray, director of the independent Monmouth University Polling Institute, said in a statement. "But Fitzpatrick has been able to overcome this with a solid reputation among his constituents, while many remain uncertain about Wallace." That could be bad news for Democrats: The Philadelphia suburbs are seen as critical to the party's chances of taking back the House. Political observers argue that Fitzpatrick has been successful partly because he's built a brand as a moderate. He voted against repealing the Affordable Care Act, and won the endorsements of powerful labor unions. But last week, the Cook Political Report changed its rating of the race from being in the "lean Republican column" to a "toss-up," saying Fitzpatrick has "yet to truly pitch voters on his moderation and support from Democrats." When Monmouth used a model predicting a turnout boost in Democratic voting precincts, the race was a dead heat: 49 percent of voters said they would cast a ballot for Fitzpatrick, while 48 percent sided with Wallace. With a month to go till Election Day, Fitzpatrick and Wallace both have roughly $1.7 million on hand, according to the most recent campaign finance reports. Spending likely won't end there, though: Wallace is a self-funder, and several outside groups are pouring money into the race. The Monmouth University poll, which surveyed 353 likely voters between Sept. 27 and Oct. 1, found that Fitzpatrick leads with both men and women as well as white voters without a college degree. Wallace is favored over Fitzpatrick among black, Asian, and Latino voters. White voters with a college degree are split: 50 percent support Fitzpatrick, while 49 percent are for Wallace. Fitzpatrick was ahead by only one point in a typical turnout model when Monmouth polled voters from May 31 to June 3. At the time, Wallace enjoyed more support than Fitzpatrick among college-educated white voters (54 percent to 42 percent) and women (56 percent to 40 percent). The survey by Monmouth University has a margin of error for the candidates' vote share of plus or minus 7.4 percentage points. When Fitzpatrick won the seat in 2016, he captured 54 percent of the vote. He replaced his brother, Mike Fitzpatrick, a four-term incumbent. After hearing that the so-called gubernatorial debate between incumbent Tom Wolf and challenger Scott Wagner was in fact better described as the Alex Trebek show dominated not by questions to the candidates but by monologues by the Jeopardy! game-show host we were hopeful that Gov. Wolf, who has insisted this would be the only debate he'd participate in, would change his mind and agree to a debate with more substance. After all, according to those viewing, the Trebek show left less than 20 minutes for the candidates to respond to questions or issues. Given the issues facing the commonwealth taxes, education, job decline, as well as a stifling partisanship a robust debate on how each candidate would approach the job of governing is more important than ever. And that's why we're disappointed that Wolf has not changed his mind despite the Trebek disaster. As of Tuesday, his campaign confirmed he will be doing no more debates. Maybe political strategists would agree that Wolf, who holds a double-digit lead in the polls over Wagner, can only erode his lead by debating his rival. But doesn't leadership require the recognition that strategy alone isn't enough? Leading a state carries a heavy responsibility, not just to make decisions that will affect many people, but to keep them informed and enlightened. The governor should also consider that public debate shows by example that he is not afraid of being challenged. There is undoubtedly a large body of research on the impact and importance of political debates in informing the voting public on where candidates stand on issues. We actually thought of referencing some but then realized we don't need academic research to document the importance of informing voters and having candidates defend their positions. We live in a time where worries about the polarizing aspect of where and how people get their information, how many people seek out sources that will confirm their own biases rather than remaining open to new information, and the corrupting influence of money driving political debate are all factors that make face-to-face debate more critical than ever. This November, of the 36 states electing a governor, an informal survey shows that most have more than one debate. Colorado and Connecticut have scheduled five; Iowa has three scheduled. It's unfortunate that the state Chamber of Business and Industry thought a game-show host would be a wise choice to moderate the only gubernatorial debate scheduled before November's election. If they thought they needed a celebrity for people to tune in to what the candidates had to say, they seriously underestimated people's interest in being informed. If they were trying to make this debate entertaining, Trebek's performance failed at that. That's why we urge Gov. Wolf to reconsider and agree to further debate. (Our offer to sponsor a debate remains.) Thanks to Trebek, the gubernatorial race has sunk to a new low. It wouldn't be that hard to pull it up off the ground and try to make it stand with some dignity. Coun Perez reiterates warning to barangay leaders involved in drugs 07 Aug 2017 Hits:37 Comments(0) Liga ng mga Barangay President, Councilor Jerry Perez yesterday reiterated his warning to all barangay officials from using or selling drugs. Perez said he is closely monitoring the activities of all the barangay officials and vowed sanctions against erring leaders. Aqui gane na mio barangay ya quita ya iyo na puesto cunel dos barangay leaders quien mas temprano ya sale positivo na... Washington: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo would travel to Pyongyang next week to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, his spokesperson said on Tuesday. Pompeo, on a four-nation Asian trip from October 6 to 8 would also travel to Japan, South Korea and Beijing. "In Tokyo, October 6-7, the Secretary will meet with Prime Minister Abe and Foreign Minister Taro Kono. In Pyongyang, October 7, the Secretary will meet with Chairman Kim Jong Un," State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert told reporters at a news conference. "In Seoul, October 7-8, the Secretary will meet with President Moon Jae-in, and Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha," said adding that in Beijing, October 8, he will meet with his Chinese counterparts to discuss bilateral, regional, and global issues. "Throughout the secretary's trip he will reiterate the administration's continued focus on the final, fully verifiable, denuclearisation of North Korea and longstanding commitment to our alliances and partnerships in the region," Nauert said. Washington: The US State Department has said Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to North Korea for further talks concerning the country's denuclearization. In a press briefing on Tuesday, State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said that Pompeo will talk with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported. Pompeo would also travel to Japan, South Korea and China on October 6-8 to brief them about his visit, she added. Noting that Pompeo is making his fourth trip to North Korea in less than a year, Nauert said, "we have quite a ways to go but we look forward to the next steps in this conversation." Refusing to say that talks with North Korea has been stalled, she said "the secretary and the president said we're not going to set arbitrary deadlines in the interim. We're hopeful." She added that "among the things that the secretary discussed were security assurances," referring to Pompeo's agenda in North Korea. Nauert also said that "obviously these conversations are going in the right direction." North Korea had earlier demanded the US take steps to secure Pyongyang's trust before its denuclearization. "Without any trust in the US there will be no confidence in our national security and under such circumstances there is no way we will unilaterally disarm ourselves first," North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho told the UN General Assembly. Speaking before a meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in in New York recently, Trump announced that himself and Kim will hold a second summit "in the not too distant future". After a meeting between Pompeo and Ri on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, the State Department announced that Pompeo will travel to North Korea to discuss the second Trump-Kim summit. In his speech at the UN General Assembly, Trump thanked Kim "for his courage and for the steps he has taken." But he added that much work remains to be done and that the sanctions against North Korea will stay in place "until denuclearization occurs". Wani: The death toll in Indonesia's twin quake-tsunami disaster rose to nearly 1,400 Wednesday, with time running out to rescue survivors and the UN warning of "vast" unmet needs. Authorities set a tentative deadline of Friday to find anyone still trapped under rubble, at which point -- a week after this devastating double disaster -- the chances of finding survivors will dwindle to almost zero. Government rescue workers are focusing on half a dozen key sites around the ravaged seaside city of Palu -- the Hotel Roa-Roa where up to 60 people are still believed buried, a shopping mall, a restaurant and the Balaroa area where the sheer force of the quake turned the earth temporarily to mush. Almost 200,000 people need urgent help, the UN's humanitarian office said, among them tens of thousands of children, with an estimated 66,000 homes destroyed or damaged by the 7.5-magnitude quake and the tsunami it spawned. Despite the Indonesian government urging foreign rescue teams to "stand down" because the crisis was in hand, residents in hard-hit, remote villages like Wani in Donggala province say little help has arrived and hope is fading. "Twelve people in this area haven't yet been found," Mohammad Thahir Talib told AFP. "In the area to the south, because there hasn't been an evacuation we don't know if there are bodies. It's possible there are more," the 39-year-old said. In Geneva, the United Nations expressed frustration at the slow pace of the response. "There are still large areas of what might be the worst-affected areas that haven't been properly reached, but the teams are pushing, they are doing what they can," Jens Laerke, from the UN's humanitarian office, told reporters late Tuesday. The World Health Organisation has estimated that across Donggala, some 310,000 people have been affected by the disaster. Survivors are battling thirst and hunger, with food and clean water in short supply, and local hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of injured. Officials on the ground said that while the government was now inviting offers of help, there is still no "mechanism for this to be implemented". Landing slots at Palu airport are snapped up by the Indonesian military, although it was expected to be open to commercial flights from 7:59am on Thursday. Palu's port, a key transit point for aid, has been damaged. Signs of desperation are growing, with police officers forced to fire warning shots and teargas on Tuesday to ward off people ransacking shops. Six of the Indonesian social affairs ministry's trucks laden with supplies were reportedly looted enroute to Palu. In the main route north out of the city, an AFP journalist saw youths blocking the road and ask for "donations" to clear the way. Widodo, who faces reelection next year, insisted the military and the police were in full control. "There is no such thing as looting," he said on a visit to Palu. As survivors pick through the shattered remains of their neighbourhoods, the death toll continues to rise. "The death toll is now 1,374, 113 missing," Willem Rampangilei, head of Indonesia's national disaster agency, told reporters in Palu on Tuesday. "And there are still a few bodies trapped under the rubble. We don't know how many. Our priority is still to find and save people," he added. The Indonesia-based ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance said that more body bags were "urgently" needed as fears grow that decomposing corpses could provide a breeding ground for deadly diseases. Rescue efforts have been hampered by a lack of heavy machinery, severed transport links and the scale of the damage. In yet another reminder of Indonesia's vulnerability to natural disasters, the Soputan Volcano in Sulawesi erupted Wednesday, spewing volcanic ash up to 4,000 metres above the crater. The state disaster agency warned people to stay at least four kilometres (two and a half miles) away, but said there was no need to evacuate for the time being. International aid offers have picked up since Jakarta's belated request for help, with the UN's Central Emergency Response Fund announcing late Tuesday that it was releasing USD 15 million in aid. On Wednesday, Australia said it was sending a medical team to the disaster zone and providing an additional USD 5 million in aid. With power returning to some parts of Palu late Tuesday and phone networks back up and running, there were some signs of things getting back to normal. But for most, daily life has changed beyond all recognition. Palu residents crowded around daisy-chained power strips at the few buildings with electricity, or queued for water, cash or petrol being brought in via armed police convoy. Queues to get a few litres of petrol lasted more than 24 hours in some places. Sanitation is also a growing problem. "People everywhere want to go to the toilet but there's no toilet. So we do it along the road at night," said 50-year-old Armawati Yarmin. Indonesia sits along the Pacific "Ring of Fire", the world's most tectonically active region, and its 260 million people remain hugely vulnerable to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions. HAMILTON, BERMUDA, October 3, 2018 - DHT Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:DHT) ("DHT" or the "Company") today announced that Mr. Carsten Mortensen has resigned from the Company's board of directors and that the Company has appointed Mr. Anders Onarheim to its board of directors, effective immediately, as a Class III Director with a term expiring at the Company's 2021 annual meeting of shareholders. Mr. Anders Onarheim has more than 30 years of experience from the capital markets, both in Norway and internationally. His experience includes 16 years at Carnegie Investment Bank in Norway, where he served as Managing Director and then CEO, as well as several years as Executive Director in the investment banking division of Goldman Sachs in London, and as Vice President of institutional sales at Merrill Lynch in New York and London. He has held a number of board directorships within both industrial companies and investment firms. Current directorships include North Energy ASA, Reach Subsea ASA and BW LPG. He holds an MBA from Washington University of St. Louis where he graduated in 1986. Mr. Onarheim is a Norwegian citizen and resident. ABOUT DHT HOLDINGS, INC. DHT is an independent crude oil tanker company operating a fleet of crude oil tankers in the VLCC and Aframax segments. We operate through our integrated management companies in Oslo, Norway and Singapore. For further information: www.dhtankers.com. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and information relating to the Company that are based on beliefs of the Company's management as well as assumptions, expectations, projections, intentions and beliefs about future events, in particular regarding dividends (including our dividend plans, timing and the amount and growth of any dividends), daily charter rates, vessel utilization, the future number of newbuilding deliveries, oil prices and seasonal fluctuations in vessel supply and demand. When used in this document, words such as "believe," "intend," "anticipate," "estimate," "project," "forecast," "plan," "potential," "will," "may," "should" and "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements but are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements. These statements reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events and are based on assumptions and subject to risks and uncertainties. Given these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements represent the Company's estimates and assumptions only as of the date of this press release and are not intended to give any assurance as to future results. For a detailed discussion of the risk factors that might cause future results to differ, please refer to the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 24, 2018. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this press release might not occur, and the Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements. CONTACT: Laila C. Halvorsen, CFO Phone: +1 441 299 4981 and +47 984 39 935 E-mail: lch@dhtankers.com NEW DELHI: The Delhi government on Wednesday agreed to release Rs 500 crore to municipal corporations to be used to pay off pending salaries to sanitation workers. The workers have been on strike since September 12 over non-payment of wages. The Supreme Court asked the Centre if it can contribute an equal share of amount in favour of the municipal corporations. Earlier in September, the Delhi HC had pulled up the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi for not disbursing funds for the salaries as per the recommendations of the fourth Delhi Finance Commission (DFC). The HC had said that poor workers were suffering "as politicians were fighting among themselves" for their "pound of flesh". Hearing a batch of writ petitions seeking adequate funds to the three municipal corporations to enable their proper functioning, HC had said: "You (Delhi government) could have said let the payments be made till the legal issues are settled. But you want your pound of flesh." "The poor employees are working unpaid without bread and butter as the politicians fight among themselves. Our concern is for the poor workers," the court had said. The HC had not given any directions to the AAP government then and had listed the matter for hearing on October 25 as the Supreme Court is hearing the Delhi government's appeal against the HC's April 16 and May 21 orders over implementation of the fourth DFC recommendations. New Delhi: The beautiful Disha Patani is often grabbing headlines owing to her stunning public appearances or social media posts. The actress is quite active on social media platforms like Instagram/Twitter and has a mammoth fan-following. Disha has been the queen of hearts ever since she made her Bollywood debut in the year 2016. She played the role of Priyanka Jha in the super-hit film 'MS Dhoni: The Untold Story'. Even though she didn't have a big role in the film, the actress made her presence felt and soon made a million hearts skip a beat. Disha took to Instagram to share a magazine cover on which she looks absolutely stunning in a floral dress. The actress's million dollar smile adds further charm to the pic. Check it out here: The actress will soon share screen space with Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif in 'Bharat'. The film is currently being shot and we can't wait to see when Disha joins the rest of the star cast on the shoot! Nothing has been revealed about Disha's character in the film but reports suggest that the actress will play the role of Salman Khan's sister. The film also stars actor-comedian Sunil Grover and popular television actor Aasif Sheikh among others. 'Bharat' is slated for an Eid 2019 release and is helmed by Ali Abbas Zafar. The movie took the internet by storm ever since it was announced. 'Bharat' will be set in the backdrop of India in 1947 and will take us through the events during the countrys partition. Not just that, the film will showcase significant events over a period of 70 years since partition. NEW DELHI: To mark the 150h birth anniversary of the 'Father of Nation' Mahatma Gandhi, several iconic sites across the globe beamed the images of the great Indian leader and highlighted his teachings and philosophy through special LED projections. The Ministry of External Affairs took this unique initiative of commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of the iconic Indian leader through its missions across the world. Dubais Burj Khalifa and the UKs Piccadilly Circus were among 120 locations across the world chosen by the MEA which arranged LED video projections highlighting Bapus life and philosophy. Stunning LED display at the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai! Message of Mahatma Gandhi resonates world over as more than 120 locations world over join in paying homage to Bapu on #BapuAt150. pic.twitter.com/4ZYTNaSvee Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 2, 2018 The Ministry of External Affairs also issued a statement saying, ''The storyline projected in LED videos highlights the relevance of Mahatmas life and philosophy in todays world and his ability to inspire the present generation.'' To celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, missions abroad will continue to highlight the relevance of Gandhi in a unique way - through projecting his message in the form of an LED video on iconic buildings in these countries or on other prominent locations, the statement said. Spectacular LED display of Mahatma Gandhi's message at the historic Piccadilly Circus in #London. #BapuAt150 pic.twitter.com/qG8O1oKHV0 Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 2, 2018 Welt Museum in Vienna, Buda Castle in Budapest, Palazzo Senatorio in Rome, Prambanan Temple in Indonesia, Museo de Arte in Peru were among other iconic wites which were identified to execute the LED projection on Bapu's life, his struggle for freedom and his teachings. In #Berlin (Nikolaiviertel) #Lisbon (Praca do Comercio), #TelAviv and #Bamako (Mali). A well coordinated exercise of spreading the message of Mahatma Gandhi through LED projection, first-time ever attempted at this scale. #BapuAt150 pic.twitter.com/BWGP4Ik3zo Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 2, 2018 The film showcased the key moments taken from Mahatma Gandhi's life, his inspiring quotes, everyday sayings, discourses and initiatives presented in spectacular visual narrative using the line-art style of hand-drawn illustrations layered with water-colour and ink wash that symbolise and represent the simplicity that was the Mahatma's life and his teachings. The illustrations seamless transition into another in a thread-like fashion, shaping different scenes, giving a visual meaning to the lesson or initiative showcased in the narrative, the MEA said. (With Agency inputs) New Delhi: Shortly after BSP chief Mayawati ruled out Congress-BSP alliance for Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala on Wednesday said if at last the former holds absolute trust in UPA chief Sonia Gandhi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi then other creases can be ironed out. Making an attempt to downplay Mayawati's snub to the Congress party, Surjewala said that at times, out of emotions, some sweet and bitter things are said. "At times, out of emotions, sweet and bitter things are said. But at last, if Mayawati ji holds absolute trust in Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi then other creases can be ironed out," the Congress spokesperson said. Earlier in the day, Mayawati said that her party will fight assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh on its own. She clearly mentioned that there will be 'no alliance with Congress'. "BSP will fight assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh on its own. No alliance with Congress," Mayawati told news agency ANI. Her statement came barely months ahead of the State Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The BSP veteran further alleged that the Congress is conspiring to finish off BSP. "Congress, like the BJP, is conspiring to finish off our (BSP) party," she added. Hitting out at Congress leaders Digvijaya Singh, Mayawati said the former does not want a Congress-BSP alliance. "Congress leaders like Digvijaya Singh do not wish for a Congress-BSP alliance. They are afraid of agencies like ED, CBI," she said. "Digvijaya Singh who is also a BJP agent is giving statements that Mayawati ji has a lot of pressure from Centre so she doesnt want this alliance. This is baseless," the BSP supremo said. However, she has a different point of view about UPA chief Sonia Gandhi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi. She said, "I feel that Sonia Gandhi & Rahul Gandhi's intentions for Congress-BSP alliance are honest. However, some Congress leaders are sabotaging this." The BSP chief blamed the Congress party of being arrogant. She added that the grand old party is under the misconception that they can defeat BJP on their own. She said, "They (Congress) are getting arrogant and are under the misconception that they can defeat BJP on their own but the ground reality is that people haven't forgiven Congress party for their mistakes and corruption. They don't seem to be ready to rectify themselves." Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have been scheduled later this year, however, the dates are yet to be declared. New Delhi: Clearing his stand, Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Monday said that he has always been in favour of the Congress-BSP alliance. Instead, he blamed Mayawati for not forming an alliance with the grand old party in Chhattisgarh, despite talks. The Congress leader added that in MP too there were talks of an alliance, however, Mayawati declared 22 candidates. "I've already made it clear that I respect Mayawati ji and has been in favour of Congress-BSP alliance from the beginning. In Chhattisgarh, there were talks for alliance but she didn't go for it. In MP too there were talks of an alliance, she declared 22 candidates," Digvijaya Singh said. Calling himself one of the bitterest critics of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its president Amit Shah as well as RSS, Singh added, "Please ask her, as far as I am concerned, I had been one of the bitterest critics of Modi ji, Amit Shah ji, BJP and RSS. Rahul Gandhi is our Congress chief, we follow his directions." The Congress veteran's statement comes after Mayawati lashed out at him claiming that the former does not want a Congress-BSP alliance. "Congress leaders like Digvijaya Singh do not wish for a Congress-BSP alliance. They are afraid of agencies like ED, CBI," she had said. The BSP supremo called Singh a BJP agent and said, "Digvijaya Singh who is also a BJP agent is giving statements that Mayawati ji has a lot of pressure from Centre so she doesnt want this alliance. This is baseless," the BSP supremo said. In her address, Mayawati ruled out Congress-BSP alliance for Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections saying that her party will fight the assembly polls on its own. She clearly mentioned that there will be 'no alliance with Congress'. "BSP will fight assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh on its own. No alliance with Congress," Mayawati had said. Her statement came barely months ahead of the State Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have been scheduled later this year, however, the dates are yet to be declared. MUMBAI: The Maharashtra government on moved the Supreme Court challenging the Delhi High Court order for releasing Left-wing activist Gautam Navlakha, held in connection with the Bhima-Koregaon case, from house arrest. Navlakha was recently arrested by the Maharashtra Police, which is probing the case, and put under house arrest after he approached the top court. ANI confirmed that the Maharashtra government will mention the issue before Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, seeking an immediate stay on the Delhi High Court order to release Gautam Navlakha from house arrest. The Pune Police had earlier said that the government lawyers in Maharashtra would study the Delhi High Court's Monday order freeing activist Gautam Navlakha before deciding on the future course of action in this regard. Shivaji Bodkhe, the Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order), Pune had said that the future course of action will be decided after government pleaders give their legal opinion on the matter. "Our government pleaders are studying the order of the high court and our investigating officer is also travelling to the national capital. So after obtaining their legal opinion, the further course of action will be decided," Bodkhe said. Navlakha is one of the five Left-wing activists who was arrested by the Pune police in August-end in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima case. The Delhi HC had on Monday freed Navlakha from house arrest saying the Supreme Court last week had given him the liberty to approach the appropriate forum within four weeks to seek further recourse, which he has availed. Granting relief to Navlakha, the high court also quashed the trial court's transit remand order which he had challenged before the matter was taken to the Supreme Court. Navlakha was arrested from the national capital on August 28. The other four activists were arrested from different parts of the country. They were arrested in connection with an FIR lodged following a conclave - 'Elgaar Parishad' - held on December 31 last year that had allegedly triggered violence at Koregaon-Bhima village near Pune on January 1. All arrested five activists - Varavara Rao, Arun Ferreira, Vernon Gonsalves, Sudha Bharadwaj and Navlakha - were put under house arrest on August 29 following an apex court order. Rao, a prominent Telugu poet, was arrested on August 28 from Hyderabad, while activists Gonsalves and Ferreira were nabbed from Mumbai and trade union activist Sudha Bharadwaj from Faridabad in Haryana. The police have claimed that all the five have links with Maoists. (With PTI inputs) Pune: The Pune Police will challenge Delhi High Court's order of releasing Gautam Navlakha, one of the five rights activists arrested in connection with Koregaon-Bhima case. "We are consulting our senior lawyers representing Maharashtra government for our further course of action. And considering all legal options available to us including to challenge Delhi High Court order that released Mr Gautam Navlakha. The opinion of legal experts is awaited and action will be taken accordingly, Pune Police Joint commissioner told Zee News. Releasing Navlakha, the court said that the Supreme Court had last week given him the liberty to approach the appropriate forum within four weeks to seek relief, which he has availed. The High Court bench observed that the detention is untenable in law and consequently, the house arrest of Navlakha would come to an end as of now. Bail plea of another activist Sudha Bhardwaj will be heard by the Punjab and Haryana High court Wednesday. The five activists Varavara Rao, Arun Ferreira, Vernon Gonsalves, Bharadwaj and Navlakha were arrested by Pune police on August 28 in connection with an FIR lodged following a conclave Elgaar Parishad held on December 31 last year that had allegedly triggered violence at Koregaon-Bhima village near Pune on January 1. The police claimed that all the five have links with Maoists. The activists were later put under house arrest on August 29 following an order by the SC. GANDHINAGAR: Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) was found in some of the 23 Asiatic lions which died in Gujarat's Gir forest since September 12, the state government said on Wednesday. The government has launched massive operations to ensure that the infection does not spread to other big cats in their only abode in Asia. According to officials, a deadly combination of Canine Distemper Virus and Protozoal infection is responsible for the death of at least 11 of 23 lions in the Gir sanctuary. The condition of three of over 36 lions currently under observation of Forest department is critical, officials said. Other lions in the sanctuary are being examined randomly to find out if they are infected by the CDV whose outbreak had wiped out 30 per cent population of lions in Serengeti forest areas in East Africa in 1990s. The mass deaths have jolted the government which has launched a number of measures including importing 300 shots of a vaccine from the US to protect the lions. The government has also sought national as well as international help in saving the lions. Interestingly, Forest department has been maintaining that injuries caused by infighting is the cause behind the deaths of big cats in their only abode in Asia. State Forest and Environment Minister Ganpat Vasava told reporters that Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) was found in the samples of four of the eleven dead lions by Pune-based National Institute of Virology. Canine distemper is a contagious viral disease that affects a wide variety of animal species, including dogs, coyotes, foxes, pandas and wolves. It attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of animals. "Samples of four dead lions examined by a Pune-based laboratory (National Institute of Virology) contained Canine Distemper Virus," Vasava told reporters. Additional Chief Secretary, state forest department, Rajiv Kumar Gupta said CDV didn't cause deaths but it affects immunity of infected lions after which the lions cannot survive if they have any small diseases. "Lions with CDV can be infected by Protozoa infection which is spread by ticks. Presence of both of these causes death. We have found CDV in four and Protozoa in seven out of eleven dead lions," Gupta said. Wildlife experts had warned that presence of the last surviving Asiatic lions at one place could be dangerous in case of a viral epidemic. A case is pending before the Supreme Court to shift some of the lions to forests of Madhya Pradesh. When asked if the deaths of Asiatic lions in Gir would reignite the debate of trans-locating the big cats to Madhya Pradesh for safety reasons, Vasava maintained that the entire issue is pending before the apex court. "There is no lapse on our part in taking care of our lions. The matter of shifting them to Madhya Pradesh is sub-judice. As per the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) guidelines, a place has to be identified first. Only then the issue of relocation comes into picture," said Vasava. Responding to a query whether the Forest department has failed to detect the presence of virus in lions in time, he said, "There are no visible symptoms of that viral infection. Lions appear healthy despite the infection, as the virus attacks their lungs". Meanwhile, Gupta said the government has taken a serious note of the presence of CDV though its spread is restricted to four lions so far. "We have urgently imported 300 (shots of) a vaccine from Atlanta, which we will administer to 36 lions, if needed, who are under observation," he said. Gupta said Forest personnel will collect random samples of blood and swabs of lions from other ranges of the Gir forest, as a measure to ascertain their health status. "In the next seven days, we will vaccinate all the cattle present in surrounding areas of the Gir forest," he said. "We have also sought national and international help to fight the menace on directions of chief minister (Vijay Rupani). We are also seeking the help of experts of Royal Veterinary Society of London," he said. Forest department had launched a screening operation in Dalkhaniya range of Gir sanctuary to identify sick lions following the death of 11 big cats between September 12 and 19. A total of 12 sick lions, which were caught and shifted to a rescue centre, have died since then, taking the toll to 23. According to a 2015 census, Gir is home to 523 lions, including 109 male, 201 female, 73 sub-adults and 140 cubs. NEW DELHI: The BJP-led NDMC House saw a huge uproar on Wednesday as opposition members cornered the ruling party over the issue of deaths of 30 children in September at a civic hospital in north Delhi and sought the resignation of the mayor and action against the guilty. Both AAP and Congress members sought discussion over the issue from Mayor Adesh Gupta even as they blamed some members of the North Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) of "making a mockery" of the tragic deaths by attributing it to fate. The argument from both sides soon turned into heated exchanges and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) members, some holding placards, raised slogans and later trooped to the well of the House, chanting "mayor must resign". The leader of Opposition and AAP's Wazirpur councillor Vikas Goel and senior Congress leader Mukesh Goel led the attack against the mayor and alleged that health services had "deteriorated" in the NDMC hospitals, accusing the corporation of being "ill-equipped and ill-staffed" to handle such a situation. Five more deaths due to diphtheria have been reported at NDMC-run Maharishi Valmiki Infectious Diseases Hospital at Kingsway Camp, taking the toll from the infectious disease in the city to 31 since September, officials said Wednesday. "The mayor says that most of these victims belonged to western Uttar Pradesh, so does that mean, the corporation has no responsibility in treating out-station patients. And if people are coming from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi, does it not show failure on part of the Yogi government," Mukesh Goel alleged. Interacting with reporters after the House proceedings, the Congress leader said the NDMC cannot wash its hands off of it, by just suspending the medical superintendent of the hospital, they must answer to the people and take action against all who are guilty. AAP's Vikas Goel alleged that NDMC's health committee were "inactive" and only woke up when deaths were reported in media. "Also, the MS has been made a scapegoat to protect senior officials at higher echelons. The mayor should take moral responsibility and resign from his post, and action should be taken against all those who are guilty," he said. Gupta last week had suspended medical superintendent of the Maharishi Valmiki Infectious Diseases Hospital for alleged lapses in connection with the deaths of these children at the facility. The hospital, the largest such facility in Asia, is under the BJP-led North Delhi Municipal Corporation. Gupta had set up a panel a few days ago to look into the death cases and sought a report. The five-member panel has presented its report to the mayor which was tabled in the House on Wednesday. The committee found that from December 2 last year to September 9 this year, there was "not a single dose" of anti-diphtheria serum (ADS) in the hospital. "Most of the children were non-vaccinated against diphtheria and were from rural areas of Uttar Pradesh and presented late to hospital and as a result developed complications leading to death," it said. Congress' Goel said that the NDMC in its reply in the House Wednesday said there were "five ventilators" in the combined premises of Rajen Babu Tuberculosis Hospital and Maharishi Valmiki Infectious Diseases Hospital at Kingsway Camp, but in a recent House meet, it had said that there was just "one ventilator". "Why such a discrepancy? Are the deaths of children a joke," he asked. According to information shared by the NDMC during its House proceedings on Wednesday, a total of 61 deaths have taken place due to diphtheria this year. The rest of the 30 deaths had taken place this year from January till September, a senior official said. Half of the total fatalities this year have taken place in September, which is the highest for this month since 2015. The number of patients admitted in September this year stands at 223, also the highest since 2015. The fatalities reported in previous years for September are -- 22 (in 2015), 26 (2016) and 20 (2017). New Delhi: The 'Kisan Kranti Padyatra', which started on September 23, ended at the Kisan Ghat in the national capital in the early hours of Wednesday. The protest march was started by the Bharatiya Kisan Union. It came to an end after the protesting farmers reached Kisan Ghat, the memorial of Chaudhary Charan Singh, a renowned farmer leader on late Tuesday night. "The 'Kisan Kranti Padyatra' that started on September 23 had to end at Kisan Ghat. Since Delhi Police did not allow us to enter, we protested. Our aim was to finish the Yatra, which we have done now. Now we will go back to our villages," said Bharatiya Kisan Union president Naresh Tikait. Earlier, the Delhi Police stopped the farmers from entering Delhi through Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border. The police also used water cannons and tear gas to disperse them. However, later, the police opened the barricades at the border allowing the entrance of the farmers. The farmers were agitating to demand loan waiver, reduction in electricity tariff and pension for farmers aged above 60. The yatra began from Haridwar with the score of farmers from Gonda, Basti and Gorakhpur participating in the protest march. At least 70,000 farmers from Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana staged the Kisan Kranti Padyatra, which concluded at the Rajghat. In the wake of the agitation, the Centre accepted most of the demands of the farmers following consultations with top leaders of the Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) - the umbrella organisation under which thousands of farmers have been staging a protest to press for their demands. However, the farmers at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border said that their stir would continue because the government has only agreed to seven of their eleven demands. Expressing dissatisfaction, they added that the government did not clear its stand on some of the major issues of the farmers like C2+50 and loan waiver. All schools and colleges in Ghaziabad is scheduled to remain closed on Wednesday as a preventive measure in view of the protest. Despite adequate security arrangements by Delhi Police, the protesting farmers in the national capital turned violent. According to police, the farmers tried to break barricades forcefully through tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathis. Tucson, AZ, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TUCSON, AZ. With one of the highest populations of motorcyclists in the United States, motorcycle safety is always a concern in Arizona. In addition to this population, many tourists decide to go on motorcycle trips through the state. With its natural beauty and warm temperatures, Arizona is an appealing destination for these motorcycle tourists, and safety is a prime concern. It should go without saying that motorcyclists should keep their heads protected by wearing helmets at all times, Tucson attorney Thabet Khalidi said. Unfortunately, that doesnt always happen. Arizona law doesnt require most motorcyclists to wear a helmet, so some of them dont, and some of them regret it later on. Helmets protect a motorcyclists head and neck, preventing serious injury to the most vulnerable areas of the body. Statistics show that states that require all motorcyclists to wear helmets have lower fatality rates than states that do not have such a law on the books. Data from 2013 in states that do not require all riders to wear a helmet found that 59 percent of motorcyclists killed were not wearing a helmet. In states that do require helmet use, that figure was only eight percent. Motorcyclists from out of state should also take care to protect their skin, Thabet Khalidi said. Many of them visit Arizona so they can enjoy the sun and the warm weather, but long hours out in the hot sun create the perfect conditions for sunburns. These tourists should know to either cover up or wear sunscreen if they want to avoid a nasty burn. Motorcyclists are most likely to be burned on the back of the hands and neck. Sunscreen can prevent these burns; motorcyclists can also consider using a bandana or some other material for the back of the neck. Gloves with mesh ventilation are recommended to prevent the hands from being burned through exposure to sunlight. A motorcycle can break down at any time, Thabet Khalidi warned. With the expanses of desert in the western part of the state, this can create a grave situation. Motorcyclists who are touring that area should be sure to keep an emergency kit and plenty of water on hand, in case they end up stranded. An emergency kit should include water, a first aid kit, and some protein bars (or other form of high-calorie food that doesnt take up much space). In all likelihood, motorcyclists will never have an emergency far enough from civilization for a breakdown to be more than an inconvenience. However, its important to be prepared for the worst case, Khalidi said. Motorcycle tourists should understand their safety needs, Khalidi added. Theres no reason for a vacation to turn into a tragedy. About Thabet Khalidi: Thabet Khalidi founded the Khalidi Law Firm in Tucsons Barrio Viejo when he received his law degree in 1994. He has represented the people of Arizona in hundreds of cases of family law, personal injury, and negligence. For over 20 years he has sought to serve the best interests of the injured. You can learn more at his website: https://www.tnklaw.com The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heavy to very heavy rain with extremely heavy falls warning in parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu on Sunday. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also announced that the IMD had issued a warning about a low-pressure area in the Arabian Sea close to Sri Lankan coast. The Chief Minister further said that a red alert had been issued for three districts for Sunday, October 7. The state government has also asked the Centre for five companies of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). He said that fishermen have also been asked to reach safer coast by Friday, October 5, in the wake of the alert issued by the IMD. Addressing mediapersons, the Kerala Chief Minister said, Fishermen have been advised to reach safer coast by October 5. Warning has been issued. Red alert has been declared in three districts for October 7. Disaster Management Authority has met to assess the situation. We have sought support from central agencies and asked for five companies of NDRF, Vijayan further said. According to the Kerala Chief Minister, administrations in different districts have already been alerted and have also been asked to take all necessary actions to handle the crisis. District administration has been directed to take necessary action to handle the crisis. Tourists have been advised not to travel to hilly regions, especially to Munnar to see the Neelakurinji, said Vijayan. IMD has issued a warning about a low-pressure area in the Arabian sea close to Sri Lankan coast. This is likely to develop into a cyclonic storm and a warning has been issued on the same. The predicted trajectory will be along the coast of Lakshadweep, he further said. Last month, Kerala witnessed incessant rain and worst floods in a century. The deadly monsoon rains savaged the state with heavy rain and severe floods. The rain and floods claimed 231 lives since August 8 in the second spell of the monsoon. NEW DELHI: Indian Army is now planning to procure Russia's multi-purpose future ready combat vehicles (FRCV) T-14 Armata to replace its ageing T-72 main battle tanks (MBTs). According to Sputniknews.com, the Indian Army hopes to buy 1,770 multi-purpose T-14 Armata FRCVs from Russia which is likely to cost USD 4.5 billion. With the Army Chief General Bipin Rawat arriving in Russia for a six-day visit to the country on Monday, the spotlight is back on the deal to purchase T-14 Armata FRCVs. The deal to buy T-14 Armata FRCVs, if negotiated properly and finalised in the later stages, is likely to further cement the strategic bilateral partnership between the two countries. Shedding more light on Army Chief's 6-day visit, Col Aman Anand, PRO Indian Army, said, ''General Bipin Rawat is visiting Russia from October 1-6 an official bilateral visit. During the visit, the Chief of the Army Staff-led delegation is scheduled to meet Senior Military hierarchy of Russian Armed Forces and visit Key Military formations and establishments.'' ''General Bipin Rawat shall be visiting Mikhailovskaya Artillery Academy, Headquarters of Western Military District at St Petersburg and General Staff Academy and Headquarters of a Motorised Rifle Division at Moscow,'' the statement said. Interestingly, the Gen Rawat's visit also coincides with a bilateral annual summit being organised on October 5 in New Delhi during which defence deals worth over USD 10 billion are likely to be signed. The T-14 Armata FRCVs are likely to figure in the discussions as the Indian military delegation led by General Rawat meets the top brass of the Russian Armed Forces and key military formations and establishments. The procurement process for FRCVs was initiated by the Indian Army in November 2017 as part of a plan to induct hundreds of armoured vehicles similar to the Russian T-14 Armata, Ukrainian Oplot, and South Korean K2 Black Panther main battle tanks. According to the proposed procurement plan, the FRCVs will be manufactured in India by a private company in collaboration with the overseas original equipment manufacturer. General Rawat is also likely to discuss the maintenance and life-cycle support of Russian-made military platforms in India. The Indian Army has expressed hope that Gen Rawat's Russia visit will take forward the military to military cooperation to the next level. "The visit is yet another milestone in giving impetus to the strategic partnership between India and Russia and taking forward the military to military cooperation to the next level," it said. Guwahati: Seven Rohingya Muslims, jailed since 2012 on charges of illegal entry, were put in a bus on Wednesday and sent to the border to be deported to neighbouring Myanmar, a border police official told Reuters. "This is a routine procedure, we deport all illegal foreigners," said Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta, additional director general of police in India`s northeastern state of Assam. NEW DELHI: Justice Ranjan Gogoi was sworn in as the Chief Justice of India (CJI) by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Wednesday. He succeeds Chief Justice Dipak Misra who retired on October 2. He was appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court on April 23, 2012. As CJI, Justice Gogoi will also be heading the bench of the top court that, for the first time in its history, will face a camera inside the courtroom for live-streaming of the proceedings. Earlier this year, Justice Gogoi along with three other top court judges held an unprecedented press conference publicly accusing the former CJI Misra of the alleged faulty administration of the top court. As CJI, Justice Gogoi will also be heading the bench of the top court that, for the first time in its history, will face a camera inside the courtroom for live-streaming of the proceedings. Later on, he said that "there is no crisis" in the top court. Born on November 18, 1954, Justice Gogoi was enrolled as an advocate in 1978. He initially practised in the Gauhati High Court on constitutional, taxation and company matters. He was appointed as a permanent judge of the Gauhati High Court on February 28, 2001. On September 9, 2010, he was transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court. He was appointed as Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court on February 12, 2011. While Justice Gogoi is yet to reveal his `plan` to bring down pendency in the courts, which stands at around 3.18 crore cases, he has had a resounding success in bridging the gap between the government and the public in terms of welfare schemes` distribution, reported ANI. As Executive Chairman of National Legal Service Authority (NALSA), Justice Gogoi spearheaded the program to hold legal service camps across the country wherein government departments set up stalls to highlight various welfare schemes and also made them available for the masses. A recent report released by NALSA said that around 43 lakh people have benefited from the camp. Justice Gogoi has also been heading a bench in the apex court that is monitoring the preparation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in his home state Assam. He was also hearing Central Bureau of Investigation`s appeal against the acquittal of Rajesh and Nupur Talwar in the double murder of Arushi Talwar and domestic help Hemraj. With agency inputs NEW DELHI: Justice Ranjan Gogoi, who was one of the four top court judges who held an unprecedented press conference earlier this year over what ails the highest court of the country, is set to take oath as next Chief Justice of India (CJI) on Wednesday. Justice Gogoi succeeds Chief Justice Dipak Misra who retired on October 2. Justice Gogoi will be administered the oath of office and secrecy by the President and would preside over Court Number One - the court designated for the Chief Justice. Justice Gogoi, who is known for his ''no-nonsense'' approach, will be the 46th CJI and have a term of 13 months 15 days. He was appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court on April 23, 2012. He was one of the four top court judges who revolted against Chief Justice Dipak Misra earlier this year. Along with three senior-most Judges of the apex court - Justices J Chelameswar, Madan B Lokur and Kurian Joseph - Justice Gogoi held an unprecedented press conference in January this year, accusing Chief Justice Misra of running the top court's administration in an arbitrary manner. Justice Gogoi and his colleagues also raised questions over the allotment of cases by CJI Misra to different judges. Born on November 18, 1954, Justice Gogoi was enrolled as an advocate in 1978. He initially practised in the Gauhati High Court on constitutional, taxation and company matters. He was appointed as a permanent judge of the Gauhati High Court on February 28, 2001. On September 9, 2010, he was transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court. He was appointed as Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court on February 12, 2011. Justice Gogoi has been part of top court bench dealing with several important cases including the controversial Assam NRC and setting up of fast-track courts for hearing criminal cases involving the lawmakers. Justice Gogoi is part of a bench, which also includes Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman, which is monitoring the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. He also heads the bench that is hearing a plea for setting up special courts to exclusively try criminal cases against the sitting and former lawmakers across the country. In pursuance to his December 2017 order, 12 special courts were set up across the country to try criminal cases against the politicians. The emphasis is that in pursuance to 2014 direction of the top court, the trial in criminal cases against the lawmakers should conclude in one year. Justice Gogoi had on Wednesday said that if required the bench would monitor the compliance of its order as it asked 19 States and six Union territories to give the details of the number of cases pending against the lawmakers in these states. He is also on the bench along with Chief Justice Misra hearing the Sahara matter. Justice Gogoi had once pulled up Justice Markandey Katju for making adverse comments on a top court judgement in which it had set aside the death sentence of a Kerala man accused of raping and murdering a young woman in 2011. Justice Katju, who retired as judge of the Supreme Court on September 19, 2011, had to tender an unconditional apology in connection with his remarks. A bench headed by Justice Gogoi had issued a notice to Justice Katju on November 11, 2016, asking why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against him for casting aspersion against the judges in one of his blogs relating to a case. However, contempt proceedings were later dropped after Katju tendered an unconditional apology to the top court. (With Agency inputs) New Delhi: With barely months ahead of State Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, BSP chief Mayawati on Wednesday said that her party will fight assembly elections in these two states on its own. She clearly mentioned that there will be 'no alliance with Congress'. "BSP will fight assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh on its own. No alliance with Congress," Mayawati told news agency ANI. She alleged that the Congress is conspiring to finish off BSP. "Congress, like the BJP, is conspiring to finish off our (BSP) party," she added. #WATCH Delhi: BSP Chief Mayawati's reaction when asked if there is any possibility of a BSP-Congress alliance for the upcoming Lok Sabha & assembly elections. pic.twitter.com/jAztvwiV7r ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 3, 2018 Hitting out at Congress leaders Digvijaya Singh, Mayawati said the former does not want a Congress-BSP alliance. "Congress leaders like Digvijaya Singh do not wish for a Congress-BSP alliance. They are afraid of agencies like ED, CBI," she said. "Digvijaya Singh who is also a BJP agent is giving statements that Mayawati ji has a lot of pressure from Centre so she doesnt want this alliance. This is baseless," the BSP supremo said. However, she has a different point of view about UPA chief Sonia Gandhi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi. She said, "I feel that Sonia Gandhi & Rahul Gandhi's intentions for Congress-BSP alliance are honest. However, some Congress leaders are sabotaging this." The BSP chief blamed the Congress party of being arrogant. She added that the grand old party is under the misconception that they can defeat BJP on their own. She said, "They (Congress) are getting arrogant and are under the misconception that they can defeat BJP on their own but the ground reality is that people haven't forgiven Congress party for their mistakes and corruption. They don't seem to be ready to rectify themselves." Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have been scheduled later this year, however, the dates are yet to be declared. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will receive the United Nation's highest environmental honour 'Champions of The Earth Award' at a special ceremony here on Wednesday. The award, which was announced on September 26 on the sidelines of 73rd UN General Assembly in New York, will be presented by the visiting UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, to PM Modi, according to an official statement. PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron were recently named as recipients of the prestigious award for their exemplary leadership and advocating action on sustainable development and climate change. PM Modi and Macron were recognized in the Policy Leadership category for their pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and for their unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022, the UN said. Four other environmental changemakers were also awarded by the UN. Emmanuel Macron, President of France and Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, are recognized in the Policy Leadership category for their pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and promoting new areas of levels of cooperation on environmental action, including Macrons work on the Global Pact for the Environment and Modis unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022, the United Nations said in a press release. The Prime Minister's Office also took to Twitter to confirm the development. ''President @EmmanuelMacron and Shri Modi have been awarded in the Policy Leadership category, for their efforts regarding the International Solar Alliance,'' it said. PM @narendramodi has been awarded the prestigious @UN Champions of the Earth Award. President @EmmanuelMacron and Shri Modi have been awarded in the Policy Leadership category, for their efforts regarding the International Solar Alliance. https://t.co/zSNk3lS3uy PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 26, 2018 In his acceptance speech later, the PM said that this award was not for an individual but for the Indian tradition and value systems of living in harmony with nature and protecting the environment. I accept, with all humility the Champions of the Earth Award and thank the @UN for conferring this honour. This Award is not for an individual but for the Indian tradition and value systems of living in harmony with nature and protecting the environment. pic.twitter.com/mq785AozYC Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 27, 2018 The annual 'Champions of the Earth' prize is awarded to outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions have had a positive impact on the environment. NEW DELHI: Divya Spandana (Ramya) has resigned as the social media cell head of the Congress, sources told ZeeNews. Sources added that Ramya will remain with the Congress and will be given some other position in the party. Congress is yet to confirm the development. Recently, a sedition case was filed against her for a photo of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that she had tweeted. In her post, she had called PM Modi a 'chor' (thief) questioning him for not responding to allegations on the controversial Rafale deal. Following her tweet, a lawyer in Lucknow, Syed Rizwan Ahmad, had filed a complaint against her. "Her tweet was derogatory. The PM represents our sovereignty and republic. It is a disgrace to our nation and is a contempt," Ahmad had said. Ramya who has been extremely vocal about her criticism of the BJP and posts about the alleged failures of the government on almost a daily basis on Twitter has not posted anything since September 29. Several people on the microblogging site have been questioning her silence. The Supreme Court on Wednesday expressed concern over the death of lions in Gir forest of Gujarat and questioned the Centre and the state government. The apex court said it is an extremely serious issue and the government must find out the reason for the deaths of the lions and the animals must be protected. Replying to the SC, the Centre sought time to look into the matter and come back with a reply. The Gujarat government also assured that all necessary action will be taken soon. At least 23 lions have died in the last 18 days in Gir Sanctuary since September 12, an official said. Eleven lions had died in the forest due to reasons such as infighting and infections between September 12 and 19, while 10 more died between September 20 and 30 after they were shifted to a rescue centre. Earlier on Tuesday, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani termed the deaths as "very unfortunate". "It was a very unfortunate incident. 20-22 lions inhibiting in one forest range have died due to infection. To make sure that other lions are alright, we have called in doctors from Delhi and Pune to examine them," said Rupani in Porbandar. "We are also probing whether the officers who have the responsibility of that range have shown carelessness," he said. The forest department had said on Monday that four of the dead lions were found to have a virus infection, while another six were infected with a Protozoa-class organism carried by ticks. All these lions lived in Sarasiya area of the Dalkhania range of Gir Sanctury, officials said. The department launched a screening operation in the range to identify sick lions following the death of 11 lions between September 11 and 19. However, 12 sick lions, which were caught and shifted to a rescue centre, have died since then. The virus found in the carcasses of these animals has not yet been idenitifed, as per the officials. In a shocking incident, two motorcycle-borne miscreants opened fire at two police personnel, seriously injuring one, and looted two service rifles from them in Shamli district of Uttar Pradesh, police said Wednesday. The men open-fired at a constable and another home guard in Chausana check post, injuring the constable. Inspector-general of Police, Sharad Sachan, said, "The miscreants seized rifles from both the constable and the home guard. The constable has been injured and sent to Meerut for treatment." The incident occurred Tuesday night on Bidoli road under Jhinjhana Police Station, Circle Officer Rajesh Kumar Tiwari said. Home Guard Sanjay and another police personnel, Sansar Singh, were near the Kamalpur checkpost where they intercepted the bike-borne accused, Tiwari said, adding the two men opened fire at them and looted their rifles. Home Guard Sanjay was injured and he was rushed to the hospital in a serious condition, the CO said. On receiving information about the incident senior police officers rushed to the spot and a hunt was launched for the accused. Not for distribution to U.S. news wire services, or dissemination in the United States. HONG KONG, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Primeline Energy Holdings Inc. (Primeline, or the Company) (TSX.V: PEH) today announced that it has issued $US 11,300,000 principal amount of bonds (the New Bonds) to Primeline International (Holdings) Inc. (PIHI), a company wholly-owned by Mr. Victor Hwang, Primelines President, Chairman and majority shareholder, and pursuant to payment of interest on the New Bonds will issue 294,619 new Ordinary Shares of Primeline (Shares) to PIHI. As announced in Primelines press release of Aug. 15, 2018, on Aug.14, 2018 Mr. Hwang loaned Primeline the sum of $US 11,300,000 ($Cdn. 14,483,210 at the Bank of Canada daily exchange rate for $US of 1.2817 as of Oct. 2, 2018) in order to fund repayment by Primeline of $US 10,000,000 principal amount Tranche A Bonds issued to GRF Prime Limited (GRF Prime) in 2015 (the Tranche A Bonds) which matured on Aug. 14, 2018. The loan was to be secured by the issuance of bonds in the principal amount of US $11,300,000 (the New Bonds) having the same terms as the Tranche A Bonds with a deemed issue date of Aug. 14, 2018, subject to receipt of acceptance of the issuance of the New Bonds from the TSX Venture Exchange (the TSX-V). TSX-V acceptance has been obtained, and Primeline has issued the New Bonds today, with a deemed issue date of Aug. 14, 2018. As noted in Primelines Aug 15, 2018 press release, the New Bonds are for an initial term of one year, extendable for a further year at the option of the holder. Interest is payable on the New Bonds quarterly on Sept. 15, Dec. 15, Mar. 15 and June 15 of each year of the term at 7% per annum, of which 4.5% is payable in cash and 2.5% in Shares issued at a deemed price per Share equal to the higher of (i) the closing price of the Shares on the TSX-V on the day before; and (ii) the volume-weighted average trading price of the Shares on the TSX-V for; the 10 days preceding the interest payment date (Share Interest). On maturity, the New Bonds must be redeemed for their principal amount together with a premium which will result in the bondholder receiving interest equal to 10% per annum, less cash interest paid and 50% of the lower of (a) the aggregate of all Share Interest paid and (b) the product of (A) the number of Shares actually issued in satisfaction of Share Interest on or prior to the redemption date and (B) the arithmetic mean of the Volume Weighted Average Price for one Share for the 10 consecutive Trading Days ending on the Trading Day immediately prior to the redemption date. The New Bonds are convertible, at the option of the bondholder, at any time during the period commencing four months and a day following the date of issuance up to the date that is 10 days prior to the date of maturity of the New Bonds, into Shares at a conversion price of CAD$0.70 per Share. The 294,619 Shares (the Interest Shares) will be issued to PIHI in payment of the Sept. 15, 2018 instalment of Share Interest at a deemed price of CAD$0.102 per Share, the volume-weighted average TSX-V trading price of the Shares for the ten days preceding the interest payment date. Prior to the issuance of the New Bonds, Mr. Hwang had ownership, directly and indirectly through PIHI, and control of a total of 125,213,470 Shares, or 64.02% of the issued and outstanding Shares. At the Bank of Canada rate for conversion of $CAD to $US of 1.2817 as of Oct. 2, 2018, 20,690,300 Shares were issuable upon conversion of the New Bonds, and assuming such conversion, and the issuance of the Interest Shares and of 1,521,536 shares as interest to GRF which are the subject of a separate press release, Mr. Hwang had ownership, directly and through PIHI, and control of 146,198,389 Shares, or 67.04% of the issued and outstanding Shares, representing a change in Mr. Hwangs security holding percentage in the Shares of 3.02%. Mr. Hwang, through PIHI, will acquire beneficial ownership of further Shares as Share Interest, and may convert New Bonds, or purchase or sell Shares in the market, in the future depending on market conditions and other factors relevant to his investment decisions. Mr. Hwang has no plans or future intentions by himself or with any joint actors which relate to or would result in: a corporate transaction, such as a merger, reorganization or liquidation, involving Primeline or any of its subsidiaries; a sale or transfer of a material amount of Primelines assets or those of any of its subsidiaries; a change in the board of directors or management of Primeline, including any plans to change the number or term of directors or fill any existing vacancy on the board; a material change in the present capitalization or dividend policy of Primeline; a material change in Primelines business or corporate structure; a change in Primelines Articles or another action which might impede the acquisition of control of Primeline by any person or company; any class of Primelines securities being delisted from the TSX-V; Primeline ceasing to be a reporting issuer in any jurisdiction of Canada; a solicitation of proxies from Primelines securityholders; or any action similar to those enumerated above. A copy of Mr. Hwangs early warning report relating to the transactions described above can be obtained from Mr. Robin Cook at FronTier Merchant Capital Group, whose contact information is below. Mr. Hwangs address is Hong Kong Parkview, 88 Tai Tam Reservoir Road, Hong Kong. About Primeline Energy Holdings Inc. Primeline is an exploration and production company focusing exclusively on Chinas natural resources to become a major supplier of gas and oil to the East China market. Primeline has a 100% Contractor's interest in, and is the operator of, the petroleum contract with CNOOC for Block 33/07 (5,877sq km) and a 49% interest in the producing LS36-1 gas field in Block 25/34, together with CNOOC (51% interest and acting as Operator). Both blocks are located in the East China Sea. LS36-1 has been in production since July 2014. Shares of Primeline are listed for trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol PEH. ON BEHALF OF PRIMELINE ENERGY HOLDINGS INC. Ming Wang Ming Wang Chief Executive Officer Contact: Primeline Energy Holdings Inc. FronTier Merchant Capital Group Dr. Ming Wang, CEO PH: +44 207.499.8888 Fax: +44 56 0372 5179 Toll Free: 1.877.818.0688 E-Mail: IR@pehi.com Robin Cook 1411-1 King Street West, Toronto, ON M5H 1A1 PH: (416) 809-1738 FAX: (866) 749-0447 E-Mail: robin@frontiermcg.com www.frontiermcg.com Please visit the Companys website at www.pehi.com . Should you wish to receive Company news via email, please email robin@frontiermcg.com specify Primeline Energy in the subject line. Forward-Looking Statements Some of the statements in this news release contain forward-looking information, which involves inherent risk and uncertainty affecting the business of Primeline. Although these statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, actual results may vary from those anticipated in such statements. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. KOLKATA: The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has taken over the investigation into the Kolkata's Nagerbazar area blast that left a boy dead and nine others injured. According to ANI, a Suo Motu case has been registered against unknown persons in connection with Tuesday's explosion in Kolkata's northern suburbs. The low-intensity blast took place in front of a multi-storey building at Nagerbazar in Kolkata's northern suburbs on Tuesday. The blast shook the windows of neighbouring houses and splinters damaged the shutters of the shops near it. The ruling Trinamool Congress held the BJP and RSS responsible for the blast and alleged that the saffron party was aiming to kill South Dum Dum Municipality chairman and TMC leader Panchu Roy. The BJP, however, rubbished these charges and demanded a probe by NIA into the blast. Calling Roy and other TMC leaders former Naxalites, the BJP said the blast was a result of an internal feud in the TMC. "A 7-year-old child, who was severely injured in the blast, has died in the hospital. Nine other persons were seriously injured," Deputy Commissioner of Police, Barrackpore Commissionerate, Ananda Roy said. As per the investigation so far, ammonium nitrate was used in the low-intensity blast which took place outside a shop on the ground floor of the building in the congested Kazipara area under the jurisdiction of Dum Dum police station around 9 AM, the police said. "It was a socket bomb explosion,''it said. A socket bomb is an improvised explosive device. A forensic team and the bomb squad of CID were rushed to the spot to determine the nature of the blast. Panchu Roy, whose office is in the multi-storeyed building, claimed he was the target of the blast. The shop outside which the blast took place is the extended office of the municipal chairman. Roy and his party workers are regularly present in the office from 9 am to 10 am in the morning and also a few hours in the evening, the municipality chairman and the locals said. Roy claimed he was late in reaching his office in the morning and the blast took place around 9.05 am. Roy stopped short of naming any political party but said the forces, which are currently attacking the ruling TMC all over Bengal, were behind the attack. "It was a pre-planned blast... They had planned to kill me and other TMC workers, as it would create panic and help them gain a foothold in the area," Panchu Roy was quoted as saying by PTI. Asked whether the explosion was a result of infighting within the TMC, he said there was no such issue in south Bengal. TMC North 24 Parganas district president and state minister Jyotipriyo Mullick, who visited the spot, held the BJP and RSS responsible for the blast and said it was targeted at harming Roy and other party members. BJP state president Dilip Ghosh rubbished Mullick's allegations and said it has become a "mania" for the Trinamool Congress to blame his party for almost everything. Seoul: Samsung Electronics Co. plans to start sales of a silver-coloured Galaxy Note 9 as early as this week, industry sources said on Tuesday, apparently to promote the device amid the launch of new iPhones and other rival products. The new colour adds to the existing portfolio of blue, black, purple and copper variants. The silver edition will also be released in the US, Yonhap news agency reported. Samsung has not yet announced the exact date for release in South Korea. Industry watchers said the new version seems to be aimed at competing with LG Electronics Inc.'s V40 ThinQ, which will be introduced this week, along with Apple Inc.'s latest iPhone models. In South Korea, Samsung also launched a special programme in which the company purchases used Galaxy products from buyers of the Galaxy Note 9. The used products must be operational but trading in them can reduce the cost of the latest phablet. Bhubaneswar: A delegation of the BJP's mahila morcha on Wednesday lodged a complaint, alleging that three police personnel misbehaved with women during a protest rally near Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's residence. Demanding action against the police officers, the FIR demanded registration of cases under various sections of the IPC. Around 10 BJP mahila morcha activists were arrested by police on Tuesday for allegedly attempting to barge into the CM's residence here. The women's wing had on Tuesday held a rally to seek clarification from Patnaik on the alleged derogatory remarks against women by state Agricultural Minister Pradeep Maharathy. Maharathy, however, has rejected the allegations against him. An official of Mahila Police Station, where the FIR was lodged, said police is examining the complaint. Bhubaneswar: The Centre on Wednesday urged the Odisha government to cooperate with it in the establishment of the proposed Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) facility at Chandikhol. The Centre's move was apprised to the state government when Sanjay Sudhi, the joint secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, met Odisha Chief Secretary A P Padhi here at the state secretariat. Since the facility will be an underground strategic oil reserve for eastern India and generate employment for 4,000 people during the construction phase, the state government should cooperate in establishing the project, Sudhir told reporters. He said the Odisha government has assured the central government of support in setting up the SPR. Sudhir said the proposed SPR in Jajpur district with 4 million metric ton capacity will be built over 400 acre of land, at an investment of Rs 6,500 crore. The project would also include a pipeline from Chandikhole to Paradip. The oil ministry official said that experts from both the Centre and the state government will soon meet to discuss the modalities of implementation of the project. The Union Cabinet had approved establishment of additional 6.5 million metric ton SPR facilities at two locations in Odisha and Karnataka. New Delhi: Bollywood thespian Rishi Kapoor's health condition came under the spotlight after he failed to attend his mother Krishna Raj Kapoor's funeral. Just a few days ago, Rishi had announced on Twitter that he is leaving for the US for medical treatment and requested people to not speculate. Contrary to his requests, the news of Rishi Kapoor suffering from cancer that has reached an advanced stage surfaced on the internet soon. However, opening up about his health condition, Randhir Kapoor told TOI that Rishi is yet to undergo tests in America.We dont know yet what is the exact nature of his ailment. Rishi himself doesnt know what hes suffering from. He has not even started undergoing tests there; how can people speculate that he has cancer and that too, one that has escalated to advanced stage. Let him undergo tests peacefully; whatever the results, we will let everyone know. He only reached America two-three days ago and so far, he was being prepared for the tests that he has to undergo. Depending on what the results are, his line of treatment, medication and other modalities will be decided upon. Its not fair to speculate things just like that, " he said. Before leaving for the US, Rishi had tweeted, "Hello all! I am taking a short leave of absence from work to go to America for some medical treatment. I urge my well-wishers not to worry or unnecessarily speculate. Its been 45 years plus of wear and tear at the movies. With your love and good wishes, I will be back soon! According to sources, his wife Neetu Singh and son Ranbir Kapoor are also in the US with him. They could not attend Krishna Raj Kapoor's funeral but Ranbir's alleged beau Alia Bhatt tried to make Ranbir a part of his grandmother's last rites. A video of Alia trying to facetime him has gone viral on social media. New Delhi: Actor Rishi Kapoor recently left for US for his medical treatment with wife Neetu Kapoor and son Ranbir. On September 29, the veteran actor had shared post saying, "Hello all! I am taking a short leave of absence from work to go to America for some medical treatment. I urge my well-wishers not to worry or unnecessarily speculate. Its been 45 years plus of wear and tear at the movies. With your love and good wishes, I will be back soon!" (sic). In the meantime, DNA quoted a source saying that the Kapoors are likely to stay in US for sometime and they have rented an apartment in Big Apple. Ranbir, who has also accompanied them, will however be coming back to India for his professional commitment. The source said that Rishi's daughter Riddhima Kapoor Sahni will be joining her parents there. "Rishi, Neetu and Ranbir are absolutely devastated with the passing away of Krishna Raj Kapoor. And, they have been continuously in touch with their family members, who are keeping them updated on everything related to her sudden sad demise and the future course of action as far as the family goes," the source said. Krishna, the wife of late legendary actor-filmmaker Raj Kapoor, passed away on Monday morning after suffering a cardiac arrest. She is survived by her sons Randhir Kapoor, Rishi, Rajiv Kapoor, and daughters Ritu Nanda and Rima Kapoor Jain. In the meantime, the Kapoors have requested for privacy at this hour. Mumbai: Tanushree Dutta had lodged a complaint with the Cine & TV Artists Association (CINTAA) a decade ago against actor Nana Patekar. She had accused him of harassment on the sets of the film 'Horn OK Pleassss' while she was shooting an item song but Patekar has denied all allegations. In the copy of complaint dated March 27, 2008, exclusively accessed by Sonal Singh of Zee News, Tanushree had described the entire incident. She had even alleged that the organisation did not pay heed to her complaint back then. Take a look at the copy of the letter here: In a fresh statement issued on Tuesday, CINTAA said it "strongly condemns any act that outrages the modesty of any individual and any form of sexual harassment is unacceptable to us." "After going through Ms Tanushree Dutta's complaint, which was filed with the then Executive Committee of CINTAA in March 2008, we feel that the decision taken in the Joint Dispute Settlement Committee of CINTAA & IFTPC (then known as AMPTPP) in July 2008 was not appropriate, as the chief grievance of sexual harassment wasn't even addressed." The organisation said even though it was a different Executive Committee back then, CINTAA finds it "highly regrettable and no apologies can suffice, hence we must resolve today to never allow such lapses to occur again". "CINTAA stands strongly for the dignity and self respect of its members. Sexual harassment is a serious criminal offence, unfortunately CINTAA's Constitution bars us from taking up any case which is more than three years old. "Hence we appeal to the authorities to take cognisance of Ms Dutta's statements and conduct an impartial and speedy enquiry so that truth and justice may prevail. We also appeal to all our members to report any such incidents to us immediately. We are duty bound to give them our complete moral and legal support to ensure just and safe working conditions," the statement further read. A number of actors like Farhan Akhtar, Swara Bhasker and Richa Chadha have come out in support of Tanushree and have spoken about creating a loud noise against sexual misconduct. (With PTI inputs) The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam will be holding public meetings at 102 places across Tamil Nadu against the ruling All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) government after the Madras High Court gave its nod to the DMK. The DMK had moved court seeking permission for its proposed state-wide public meetings. The DMK plans to hold meetings across the state on October 3 and 4 to highlight the alleged corruption in the AIADMK government. The DMK had to knock the doors of the court after the police turned down its requests for permission. DMK organising secretary R S Bharathi, in his petition, had submitted that the police officials had rejected the applications filed by all respective district and town secretaries. He had claimed that all the applications were rejected citing "unsustainable and untenable" identical reasons. The petitioner had pointed out that there were no common instructions to reject the requests. He had hence sought a direction from the court for the police to permit the party to conduct the public meetings. Earlier, senior counsel P Wilson made a mention before Justice R Mahadevan for urgent hearing of the matter. The judge directed the counsel to file the petition and serve papers to the counsel on the government side so that it can be taken up for hearing. Wilson submitted that the DMK, the main opposition party with 88 MLAs in the state assembly, had taken a decision to organise the meetings throughout the state under the title "Commission-Collection Corruption" against the AIADMK government. WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that allegations of sexual misconduct against his US Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh, showed that "it`s a very scary time for young men in America" who now may be presumed guilty even when innocent. Five days after an extraordinary Senate hearing watched by millions of people in which university professor Christine Blasey Ford detailed her sexual assault allegation against Kavanaugh, Trump raised the issue of false accusations against men. "My whole life, I`ve heard you`re innocent until proven guilty. But now, you`re guilty until proven innocent. That is a very, very difficult standard," Trump said outside the White House. "Well, I say that it`s a very scary time for young men in America when you can be guilty of something that you may not be guilty of." The fight over Kavanaugh`s nomination to a lifetime job on the top U.S. court comes against the backdrop of the #MeToo movement fighting sexual harassment and assault that has toppled a succession of powerful men. Under pressure from Democrats and some moderate fellow Republicans, Trump on Friday ordered an FBI investigation lasting up to a week into the allegations against his nominee. He told reporters on Tuesday he thought the conservative federal appeals court judge would win Senate confirmation once the FBI finishes its investigation. The nomination has become a politically explosive issue ahead of November 6 elections, when control of Congress is at stake. Some Republicans fear pushing ahead with Kavanaugh`s confirmation could alienate women voters, while Democrats are seeking to capitalise on the controversy. Trump, who was himself accused during the 2016 presidential race of sexual misconduct with numerous women, tried to link the allegations against Kavanaugh to what he said was a broader problem. "What`s happening here has much more to do than even the appointment of a Supreme Court justice. It really does. You could be somebody that was perfect your entire life, and somebody could accuse you of something. It doesn`t necessarily have to be a woman," Trump said. Ford testified that Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her at a party in 1982 when they were high school students in Maryland. At a rally in Mississippi on Tuesday night, Trump mocked Ford for not having answers to some questions during her testimony. "What neighbourhood was it in? I don`t know. Where`s the house? I don`t know. Upstairs, downstairs, where was it? I don`t know. But I had one beer. That`s the only thing I remember," Trump said in imitation of Ford`s testimony. "And a man`s life is in tatters," he added. `PARTISAN TONE` In his own testimony, Kavanaugh denied the accusation, as well as allegations by two other women of sexual misconduct in the 1980s. Senator Jeff Flake, a moderate Republican who could be pivotal in the confirmation vote, raised concerns about the judge`s "partisan" tone at the Judiciary Committee hearing. "I was very troubled by the tone of the remarks. ... The interaction with the members was sharp and partisan, and that concerns me," Flake said. "I tell myself, `You give a little leeway because of what he`s been through.` But on the other hand, we can`t have this on the court. We simply can`t," Flake, who is retiring as a senator in January, said at an event in Washington. Kavanaugh struck an angry and defiant tone at the hearing. He called himself the victim of "a calculated and orchestrated political hit" by Democrats, lashing out at Democratic senators and frequently interrupting them. Flake voted to approve Kavanaugh in the committee`s vote on Friday that sent the nomination to the full Senate, but only after he requested that the FBI investigate the sexual misconduct allegations. Flake has said Kavanaugh`s nomination would end if the FBI investigation found he had lied in his Senate testimony. "I don`t think you should lie to Congress," Trump said on Tuesday. "There have been a lot of people over the last year that have lied to Congress, and to me that would not be acceptable." TIGHT MARGIN Republicans control the Senate by a 51-49 margin. That means if all the Democrats vote against Kavanaugh, Trump could not afford to have more than one Republican oppose his nominee, with Vice President Mike Pence casting a tiebreaking vote. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said each senator would get a copy of the FBI`s report on its investigation. "But here`s what we know ... one thing for sure. The Senate will vote on Judge Kavanaugh here, on this floor, this week," McConnell told the chamber. Senator Dianne Feinstein, the Judiciary Committee`s top Democrat, said a Friday vote on Kavanaugh would not give senators enough time to evaluate the FBI probe. Flake said the FBI had completed interviews with four people. A lawyer for Kavanaugh`s friend Mark Judge said the FBI had finished its interview with him. Ford identified Judge as a witness to the alleged assault. Judge has previously denied any memory of such an incident. Ford`s lawyers said on Tuesday she had offered her full cooperation with the FBI in its investigation but had received no reply. "It is inconceivable that the FBI could conduct a thorough investigation of Dr. Ford`s allegations without interviewing her, Judge Kavanaugh, or the witnesses we have identified in our letters to you," the lawyers said in their letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray. A person familiar with the matter said the FBI questioned Deborah Ramirez, who has said Kavanaugh exposed himself to her at a party when both were Yale University students. She was questioned for more than two hours on Sunday and provided the FBI with a list of over 20 possible witnesses, the person said. The FBI was also due to question Leland Keyser and P.J. Smyth, two people who Ford said were at the gathering of teenagers where Kavanaugh allegedly assaulted her. A third woman who has accused the judge of sexual misconduct in the 1980s, Julie Swetnick, was not on the initial list of witnesses to be interviewed. Washington: There is unlikely to be any changes in America's policy on suspension of aid to Pakistan until it makes substantial progress against terrorists and their safe havens, the Trump administration has told Islamabad as the two countries try to reset their strained ties. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, during their meetings with Pakistan's new Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi here, are understood to have told the Pakistani leadership that in its assessment the US does not see any changes on the ground when it comes to taking actions against terrorists operating from its soil. Given Pakistan's influence over the Taliban, the Trump administration also wants Islamabad to bring them to the peace table. Notably, the State Department till late in the night had refrained from issuing any readout of the meeting between Qureshi and Pompeo, which is understood to have lasted for 20 minutes at their Foggy Bottom headquarters. The White House normally does not issue a readout of the meeting that its National Security Advisor has with foreign leaders. Qureshi and Pompeo did appear for a hand-shake photo op before the meeting, during which they did not issue opening remarks. According to informed sources familiar with the development, the US side is upset because of Qureshi's faux pas about handshake he had with President Donald Trump during a luncheon in New York, which he described to the media as meeting. Meanwhile in a readout of the meetings, the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington said that Qureshi had a wide range of discussions with both Pompeo and Bolton which included among others bilateral and regional issues. Qureshi said that close engagement between Pakistan and the US had always been mutually beneficial and a factor for stability in South Asia. He stressed that, going forward, a broad-based and structured framework for dialogue would best serve the two countries' shared interests, the statement said. Noting that Pakistan and the US share a common desire for peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region at large, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's support for a political settlement in Afghanistan, saying use of force had failed to deliver results. Qureshi told Pompeo that "peace in South Asia, which was a common goal for both the US and Pakistan, would remain elusive until all disputes, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir, are resolved". Pompeo, according to the embassy statement, said the US looked forward to working with the new government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan in implementing its reform agenda. "In the context of achieving stability in South Asia, Qureshi briefed his US interlocutor about India's aggressive posturing in the region. "Qureshi underscored that, on its part, Pakistan remained committed to engaging India in a comprehensive peace dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute," the statement added. The ties between the two countries strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists. In September, the Trump administration cancelled USD 300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups active on its soil. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Deans Knight Income Corporation (the "Company") announces the following results of voting for each item of business considered at the Company's annual meeting of shareholders held on October 3, 2018 (the "Shareholder Meeting"): Item of Business Number of Votes FOR Fix Number of Directors at Three (3) Directors 1,040,182 (94.10%) Election of Directors Wayne Deans 1,009,712 (91.34%) Dillon Cameron 253,258 (22.91%) Patrick Wilson 1,009,712 (91.34%) Appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as auditors of the Company and authorizing the Directors to fix their remuneration 1,106,049 (99.91%) As Mr. Cameron did not receive the requisite majority of votes at the Shareholder Meeting, he tendered his resignation to the board of directors of the Company (the "Board") for consideration by the Board, in accordance with the Company's majority voting policy. The Board carefully considered all relevant factors, including Mr. Cameron's lengthy history and experience with the Company, his past significant contributions to the Company, his extensive depth of knowledge about the unique circumstances of the Company and his professional experience and credentials. The Board also considered the fact that Mr. Cameron receives no compensation for serving as a director of the Company (including all committee work) nor does he receive any compensation for serving as the Company's CEO. The Board further considered the limited operations of the Company, which are limited to the ongoing tax litigation with the Canada Revenue Agency. Mr. Cameron did not participate in the consideration of his tendered resignation. As a result of the foregoing, the Board concluded that acceptance of Mr. Cameron's resignation would not be in the best interests of the Company and would represent a significant loss to the Company. Accordingly, the Board has rejected Mr. Cameron's resignation and Mr. Cameron will continue to serve as a duly elected director of the Company. For further information contact: Kelsey Dunwoodie Chief Financial Officer Deans Knight Income Corporation (604) 669-0212 New Delhi: Asserting that those involved in violence against the Rohingyas should be held accountable, United Nations General Secretary Antonio Guterres on Tuesday said India can help in the crisis by supporting Bangladesh in humanitarian assistance and using its influence with Myanmar to bring about reconciliation. He also said that to keep a population in such a "discriminatory situation" is "an invitation for terrorist groups" to exploit the situation. The top UN official said India "is an absolutely essential component" of a future multi-polar world and that the country can also play a role of an "honest broker" in some of the on-going conflicts in the world. In response to a question on the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT), proposed by India in 1996, he said the reason for the delay has been due to non-agreement on the definition of terrorism by countries. After attacks by the Myanmarese security forces, Rohingyas, an ethnic minority in Myanmar that mostly resides in regions bordering Bangladesh, have fled the country. According to the United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, over seven lakh people have fled Myanmar, and the majority of them reside in Bangladesh. India has over 40,000 refugees scattered across the country. "I have never seen a community so discriminated in the world as Rohingyas," Guterres, who arrived here on Monday on his maiden visit to India, said in response to a question on the issue. He was delivering a lecture on 'Global Challenges, Global Solutions' here. He said the Rohingyas don't have access to health and education and there was a deep-rooted feeling of racism against them within the Myanmarese society. Guterres recalled his visit to the country as the High Commissioner for Refugees, during which he said the president of Myanmar asked him to resettle Rohingyas in some other countries. "To make them refugees is not my role. My role is to solve the problem of refugees. This shows how deeply rooted the negative perception of the Rohingyas is. This was intensified by some hate speech by some monks on social media. There are over one million people in Bangladesh. They were people burnt, raped. "Even if there was a provocation, the reaction of the armed forces was brutal," he alleged. Guterres stressed on political reconciliation so that the Rohingyas could go back to their country. "What can India do? Support Bangladesh in helping these people because there is a huge humanitarian problem. Second, to pressure on Myanmar, the military in Myanmar for reconciliation and create conditions for these people to go back. These people will not go back in present circumstances," he said. "There should be accountability to those crimes," he said on the treatment meted out to Rohingyas added "to keep a population in such a discriminatory situation is an invitation for terrorist groups" to exploit the situation. In May, during the visit of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to Myanmar, India had offered to help in the safe, speedy and sustainable return of Rohingyas. India has also been helping Bangladesh in providing humanitarian assistance to Rohingyas. Responding to a question on why the CCIT could not be adopted, Guterres said there is no agreement on the definition of terrorism and there were several complexities involved in it. "The problem of definition of terrorism is (due to) several complexities. There is a number of things which are complicated to have a common definition of terrorism. We have never managed to have it and we have never managed to have a true convention because of the definition," he said. Guterres said India has been in the frontline of supporting CCIT and the UN fully supports India in this regard. To a question on the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights report on alleged human rights abuses in Kashmir, which was rejected by India, he said the reports are not endorsed by the secretary general. "I don't discuss reports about human rights commissioner. They have independence. The countries can agree or disagree with the reports. Their reports are not endorsed by the secretary general. The reports are done in a strictly independent way." He said as a principle, he does not make any comment on reports of both the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and High Commissioner for Refugees. Responding to another question on communalism and religious fundamentalism, he said he "does not think India is in the worst situation" at all. "I have always seen India as a country with extreme diversity. Of course, there are forms of extremism as any other parts of the world. I don't think that is the major problem that you face," he said. Guterres said poverty and inequality are two major problems faced by the Indian society. India can also play a role of an "honest broker" in some of the on-going conflicts in the world, he said, adding, "We need people and countries that all sides can respect. India does not have any specific agenda in many of these areas." The secretary-general also noted that never in the recent times was multilateralism and rules-based international order under so much of fire, citing the trade wars. He said it is necessary to create factors of equilibrium and no country was better than India because of its dimensions, its technological and innovation capacity and of its geo-strategic location. "India is an absolutely essential component of our future multi-polar world," he said. SULAIMANIYA: Iraq`s parliament on Tuesday elected as president Kurdish politician Barham Salih, who immediately named Shi`ite Adel Abdul Mahdi prime minister-designate, ending months of deadlock after an inconclusive national election in May. The presidency, traditionally occupied by a Kurd, is a largely ceremonial position, but the vote for Salih was a key step toward forming a new government, which politicians have failed to do since the election. Under Iraq`s constitution, Salih - a 58-year-old, British-educated engineer who has held office in both the Iraqi federal and Kurdish regional governments - had 15 days to invite the nominee of the largest parliamentary bloc to form a government. He chose to do so less than two hours after his election. Since Saddam Hussein was toppled in a 2003 U.S.-led invasion, power has been shared among Iraq`s three largest ethnic-sectarian components. The most powerful post, that of prime minister, has traditionally been held by a Shi`ite Arab, the speaker of parliament by a Sunni Arab and the presidency by a Kurd. A former vice president, oil minister and finance minister, Abdul Mahdi now has 30 days to form a cabinet and present it to parliament for approval. He faces the daunting tasks of rebuilding much of the country after four years of war with Islamic State militants, healing its ethnic and sectarian tensions, and balancing foreign relations with Iraq`s two major allies - Iran and its arch-foe the United States. Abdul Mahdi, 76, is a trained economist who left Iraq in 1969 for exile in France, where he worked for think-tanks and edited magazines in French and Arabic. He is the son of a respected Shi`ite cleric who was a minister in the era of Iraq`s monarchy, overthrown in 1958. He will become the first elected prime minister in post-Saddam Iraq not to hail from the Shi`ite Islamist Dawa party. Abdul Mahdi was nominated by two rival blocs, one led by Shi`ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and outgoing Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, and the other by Iran-backed militia leader Hadi al-Amiri and former premier Nuri al-Maliki. SHI`TE CONFLICT AVERTED Both blocs claim to hold a parliamentary majority but the dispute has been rendered irrelevant by their choice of the same man to be premier. "The nomination of Mr Adel Abdul Mahdi came after an agreement between the Binaa bloc and the Islah bloc to nominate him via consensus and not a majority bloc in order to get past the issue of which is the majority bloc," said Ahmed al-Asadi, a spokesman for the Binaa bloc led by Amiri and Maliki. Ameri and Maliki are Iran`s two most prominent allies in Iraq. Abadi was seen as the preferred candidate of the United States, while Sadr portrays himself as a nationalist who rejects both American and Iranian influence. The rival claims to a parliamentary majority and uncertainty over the composition of the new government had raised tensions at a time when public impatience is growing over poor basic services, high unemployment and the slow pace of rebuilding after the war with Islamic State. Sadr`s bloc welcomed Abdul Mahdi`s nomination. The cleric earlier on Tuesday tweeted that "Iraq is bigger than the biggest bloc," a likely reference to the compromise. Abadi issued a statement congratulating Abdul Mahdi and wishing him success. "Abdul Mahdi`s nomination represents the best choice to pleasing all the Shi`ite players who were about to reach a point of conflict and no return," said Baghdad-based political analyst Ahmed Younis. "All the Shiite blocs reached the conclusion that their divisions could lead to an intra-Shi`ite conflict which would weaken their position in Iraqi," he said. "Now with Abdul Mahdi there are no winners and losers, everyone is happy." KURDISH TENSIONS If the nomination of Abdul Mahdi diffused Shi`ite tensions, Salih`s election fuelled Kurdish ones. The presidency was fiercely contested between Iraqi Kurdistan`s two main parties - the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), which nominated Salih, and its traditional rival, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). Salih`s election raises concerns of destabilisation in the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region because of escalating tensions between the KDP and PUK, who fought a civil war in the 1990s. The KDP and PUK were unable to iron out differences and agree on one candidate as they have traditionally done. They competed in a parliamentary election in their semi-autonomous region in northern Iraq on Sunday. Allegations of fraud have created tensions. Results have not been announced. "I promise to safeguard Iraq`s unity and safety," Salih said as he was sworn in, affirming his commitment to the country`s unity a year after Kurds overwhelmingly backed a failed independence bid. He was the preferred candidate of most lawmakers because of his perceived softer stance on the thorny issue of Kurdish independence. His opponent had served as the longtime chief of staff to former Kurdistan Region President and KDP leader Masoud Barzani, who ushered in the referendum on independence last year. Barzani had struck alliances with several heads of major political blocs in parliament but they were unable to whip the votes for his candidate. Salih`s election marked the first time in modern Iraqi politics that one of the three top posts was selected without a backroom deal. "Even though the heads of political blocs wanted to reach a backroom deal rather than leave it up to a vote, they couldn`t control their own MPs," said Renad Mansour, a research fellow at Chatham House. "MPs voted for the candidate they thought was most qualified and was most in favour of a united Iraq." WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to North Korea at the weekend for denuclearization talks with the country`s leader Kim Jong Un, the State Department said on Tuesday, calling this "forward progress," despite negative signals from Pyongyang. Pompeo will also travel to Japan, South Korea and China from Oct. 6-8, and will be in North Korea on Sunday local time, or Saturday in US Eastern Time. "I think it shows forward progress and momentum that the secretary is making his fourth trip back in less than a year," State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told a briefing, referring to the Pyongyang stop. "Of course, we have quite a ways to go but we look forward to the next steps in this conversation." Pompeo`s visit comes ahead of a planned second summit between Kim and President Donald Trump. The invitation to return to Pyongyang was made during a meeting with North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho on the sidelines of their United Nations General Assembly last week. Nauert said the stops in Japan, South Korea and China were intended to brief counterparts on the Pyongyang talks. She said he would meet Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Foreign Minister Taro Kono in Tokyo and President Moon Jae-in and Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha in Seoul, while in Beijing he would meet counterparts to discuss "bilateral, regional and global issues." At an unprecedented June meeting with Trump, Kim pledged to work toward denuclearization of the Korean peninsula, but his actions have fallen short of Washington`s demands for a complete inventory of its nuclear weapons and irreversible steps to give up an arsenal that potentially threatens the United States. Trump has nevertheless hailed progress and on Saturday took his enthusiasm for his detente with Kim to new heights by declaring at a rally with supporters that "we fell in love" after exchanging letters. DEEPENING MISTRUST Earlier that day, North Korea`s Ri struck a different tone, telling the United Nations that continued U.S. sanctions were deepening Pyongyang`s mistrust in the United States and there was no way the country would disarm unilaterally under such circumstances. Ri said North Korea had taken "significant goodwill measures," such as stopping nuclear and missiles tests and dismantling a nuclear test site, but there had been no corresponding response from Washington. North Korea has been seeking a formal end to the 1950-53 Korea War, but the United States has said Pyongyang must give up its nuclear weapons first. Washington has also resisted calls to relax tough international sanctions. Pompeo`s last trip to North Korea did not go well. He left Pyongyang in July hailing progress, only for North Korea to denounce him for making "gangster-like demands." In a commentary on Tuesday, North Korea`s official KCNA news agency said declaring the end of the 1950-53 Korean War could "never be a bargaining chip" for denuclearization and said experts calling for North Korea to declare details of its arms programs were "spouting ... rubbish." Pompeo had planned to travel to North Korea in August but Trump cancelled the trip at the last moment and publicly acknowledged for the first time that his efforts to get Pyongyang to denuclearize had stalled. Nauert said she did not agree that talks had stalled and when asked if Trump`s comments on Saturday had been helpful, replied: "I think if our leaders have relatively friendly relations, that that`s a good thing. That that can only help us to achieve our final goal." She said that in the meantime, sanctions would remain in place. "We are not easing the pressure in that regard at all," she said, while responding when asked if Washington was considering any kind of peace declaration: "We are not. Nothing has changed with regard to our policy." Pompeo`s trip to China comes at a time of deteriorating relations and tit-for-tat tariffs sparked by Trump`s accusations of unfair Chinese trade practices. Last week, Trump accused China of seeking to meddle in the Nov. 6 U.S. congressional elections, saying it did not want his Republican Party to do well. Reuters reported on Sunday that China had cancelled a security meeting with U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis planned for October. Asked if Pompeo would attend the diplomatic side of the so-called Diplomatic and Security Dialogue, Nauert said: "The trip is, as far as I understand, to have conversations about North Korea and other issues of bilateral concern. I don`t have anything beyond that right now." "In any relationship you have your high points, you have your medium points and with some countries you have your low points," she said. "I am not going to characterize our relationship with China in any one of those three ways, but relationships can ebb and flow over time, so we certainly have a lot to talk about with the government of China." South and North Korea have been bitter enemies for decades with relations only thawing a tad in recent months. Nonethess, the two countries continue to view each other with extreme suspicion and the border between the two remains one of the most militarized on either side. These, however, are not reasons big enough for South Koreans to feel their northern neighbours are the biggest threat to world peace, found a recent poll in the country. China has taken that dubious distinction. The poll, conducted by Institute for Peace and Unification Studies (IPUS) at Seoul National University, found that 46% of respondents regarded China as the biggest threat to world peace in 2017. This was a jump of 29% from the last time the poll was conducted - in 2016. Another 33% this year continued to feel North Korea pose the biggest threat - a big fall from 64% in 2016. Significantly, a resounding 91% felt that China is not in favour of re-unification of the Korean peninsula. The poll also found that 90% felt that Japan was against the idea as well while another 88% said Russia won't be too keen either. The poll was conducted among 1,200 people aged between 19 and 74. South China Morning Post reported that it was conducted between July 12 and August 3 this year. It is reported that viewing China with a larger prism of suspicion could be due to a number of factors but that China's reaction to US installing THHAD missile system in South Korea could have had a major influence on what the poll eventually concluded. At the time, there was a wave of anti-South Korea sentiment in China with companies like Hyundai suffering massive losses. This, coupled with China's aggressive military policy, could make Beijing look dubious - not just in South Korea but in several other countries as well. The enemy performed two attacks with weapons prohibited by the Minsk Agreements Open source During the day, from 7 a.m. through 6 p.m., Russian occupation forces violated the ceasefire regime five times, no casualties among the Ukrainian servicemen observed. The press office of the Joint Forces Operation reported this on Facebook. The enemy opened aimed fire from grenade launchers, heavy machine guns, and small arms. All the performed attacks took place in the Mariupol sector direction. Our strongholds in the area of settlements Pavlopil, Hnutove, Vodiane, and Lebedynske got under the fire influence of the enemy. 82mm mortars were used against the positions near Vodiane and Lebedynske, the HQ claimed. No casualties among the JFO servicemen recorded. Reportedly, the Ministry of Defense confirmed the information about the death of one and injuring of two servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the hostilities zone in Donbas over the previous day on October 2. Three children deceased due to stepping on a landmine; the town is held by the Russian militants Open source Russia's representatives did not let the Ukrainian law enforcers and OSCE observers visit the site of the landmine explosion in Horlivka, Donetsk region. Three kids deceased upon walking on the explosive device. Iryna Gerashchenko, the first deputy speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament, posted this on Facebook. 'Russians and their marionettes, predictably, refused, and the crime scene remains blocked for visits of the international observers,', Gerashchenko said. She also added that Boris Gryzlov, Russian representative in the Minsk talks group, said that the children allegedly 'stepped on an American landmine.' Since Tuesday morning, Russian mercenaries attacked Ukrainian positions in Donbas 34 times. That resulted in casualties among the Ukrainian forces, as one Ukrainian serviceman deceased, and another two more were wounded. The Joint Forces Operation HQ reported this on Facebook. Open source The incident with Hungarian passports in Ukraine is based on a major issue, which is Ukraine's relations with the Hungarian community in Zakarpattia region. Pavlo Klimkin, the Foreign Minister of Ukraine, said that during his joint briefing with the Moldovan counterpart. According to him, on Thursday, the Hungarian side will get the note from the Ukrainian government, saying that the scandalous diplomat from Berehove, Zakarpattia region, would have to leave Ukraine. Klimkin also assumed that Budapest would not send out the consul on its own initiative. 'The issue is not just with this consul; it is much more complicated. The general problem is in relations. The true issue is working with our Hungarian community since they are Ukrainian citizens. The issue is how to negotiate. We will now offer Budapest to hold consultations about how they live up - and how they violate the convention of consulate relations, giving Ukrainians Hungarian passports and concealing it,' the minister said. Earlier, Ukrinfrom news agency published a video where a few Ukrainians were receiving Hungarian passports and owe allegiance to Hungary in the Consulate in Berehove. The Hungarian diplomat recommended not to inform the Ukrainian authorities about receiving the new documents. Over 24 hours, Russian occupant forces attacked positions of the Ukrainian fighters in Donbas combat zone nine times. The government troops took no casualties; the Joint Forces Operation HQ reported this on Tuesday evening. The enemy opened fire from grenade launchers, small arms, and heavy machine guns; skirmishes were observed in Krymske, Novotoshkivske, Orikhove, Luhanske, Starohnativka, Chermalyk, and Pavlopil. 82 mm mines hit Ukrainian outposts near Orikhove, Luhanske, and Starohnativka. A hostile IFV fired in Luhanske. Earlier, on October 1, the militants opened fire at the Ukrainian Armed Forces positions 21 times. The occupants performed 21 attacks at our positions, including four times from Minsk-banned weapons. The enemy shot at our positions near Krymske, Novozvanivka, Luhanske, Zaitseve, Pisky, Krasnodarivka, Novomykhaylivka, Novotroitske, Starohnativka, Hnutove, Vodyane, Lebedynske, and Shyrokyne,' the message of the Joint Forces Operation HQ says. Russian occupation troops launched adjusted fire from grenade launchers, heavy machine guns, and small arms. The enemy has attacked the positions of the Joint Forces Operation with 120mm and 82mm mortars and the strongholds near Luhanske with infantry fighting vehicle. Company Responds To OTC Markets Group Request For Information Regarding Recent Non-Authorized Third-Party Stock Promotions NEW YORK, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via OTC PR WIRE -- Life On Earth, Inc. (OTCQB: LFER) (LFER or Life on Earth) announced today that it has been made aware of and requested by the OTC Markets Group, Inc. to comment on recent promotional activity concerning its common stock. On October 1, 2018, the OTC Markets Group sent the Company copies of articles or promotional materials published on September 30, 2018 by Bigstocks and Iron Media, LLC, third party marketing and awareness firms. The Company was not aware of the release until the OTC Markets sent the copy on Monday October 1, 2018. After inquiry by management, none of the companys officers or members of its board of directors were involved, directly or indirectly, with the creation or distribution of promotional materials, nor were we asked to provide, nor did we provide any editorial content. After inquiry by Company management, none of the Companys officers, directors, controlling shareholders, nor third party service providers, have sold or purchased Company securities in the past 90 days. Upon reviewing the content of the publication, the statements and claims made about the Company were taken from the Companys filings with the SEC, its website, power point presentations, historical press releases, previous interviews, and information from the OTC Markets website. The Company believes that the content regarding the Company is factual and not misleading, although the Company has made it clear since issuing its Press Release on February 20, 2018, it is not engaged in the Cannabis industry. Other information appears to be unrelated research performed by the author on its own accord without verification or review by the Company. However, there are other statements made which make future revenue assumptions, but fail to make the disclaimer that the Company has made it clear, that the growth needed to achieve those future revenue projections is predicated on the Companys ability to continue to make larger acquisitions, as well as to be successful in future rounds of financing for those acquisitions. The Company does not condone the use of sensational language to describe the Companys business prospects or the growth potential of the Companys industry. The Company has retained the services of the Chesapeake Group to help in its communications to the investment community. Further, investors should disregard comparisons made between the Company and its larger, more established competitors; specifically, the Company does not condone any comparison between the investment potential of the Companys shares and the actual price growth of the Companys competitors, or any comparison between the Companys potential market cap growth, and the actual growth of its competitors. In addition, the Company does not endorse any claims to being part of the Cannabis industry or other non-Federally legal or FDA approved supplements. The Company encourages investors to review the business and prospects of the Company on its own merits, and not based on a comparison to the success of the Companys competitors or unrelated industries. The Company does not condone any statements made regarding the urgency of investing in the Companys shares or any other similar statements. Finally, the Company notes that investing in the Companys shares involves certain risks and uncertainties which investors should review prior to making any investment decision. The Company encourages all investors to undertake proper due diligence and carefully consider all investment decisions. The Company directs potential investors to rely solely on its filings and disclosures made to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, available at www.sec.gov and as posted on the filings and disclosure page for LFER on the OTC Markets website at www.otcmarkets.com. About Life On Earth, Inc. Life on Earth, Inc. (LFER), a "Make It Better" consumer based Brand Accelerator Company is a dynamic and innovative all-natural consumables products company focused but not limited to the beverage and snack industry. At LFER, we have established a unique business model focused on building brands within the alternative beverage and snack space. Our brand model is complimented by our strong distribution subsidiaries in New York and California. The growth of game changing marketing applications, human capital resources and follow-on investments will help us deliver a fully integrated platform for the emerging and functional brand category that are good for our consumers as well as the environment. Visit: www.lifeonearthinc.com SAFE HARBOR ACT Forward-Looking Statements: This release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements appear in a number of places in this release and include all statements that are not statements of historical fact regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of Life on Earth, Inc. its directors or its officers with respect to, among other things: (i) financing plans; (ii) trends affecting its financial condition or results of operations; (iii) growth strategy and operating strategy. The words may, would, will, expect, estimate, can, believe, potential and similar expressions and variations thereof are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements including those relating to the Companys financing being adequate for the Company to close this acquisition, being able to place its products in the retail stores, to launch its growth and expansion plans among others, are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Life on Earth, Inc.s ability to control, and actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. No information in this press release should be construed in any way whatsoever as an indication of Life on Earth, Inc.s future revenues, financial performance or stock price. More information about the potential factors that could affect the business and financial results is and will be included in Life on Earth, Inc.s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov. Investors and Corporate Please Contact: info@lifeonearthinc.com (646) 844- 9897 By 2030 the Ukrainian energy system will be divided into independent intellectual regional systems with 50% of the "green" generation Open source The latest technological advances in the field of sustainable energy that are already changing the world will be presented at the 10th International Forum and Trade Show of Central and Eastern Europe SEF 2018 KYIV, which will be held on October 16-19 in Kyiv. SEF 2018 KYIV will present projects in the field of sustainable energy with a capacity of over 2 GW. More than 60 reputable international experts will become speakers of the event, the number of participants in the forum (on October 16 at the Hilton Hotel) will exceed 400 delegates from more than 30 countries. More than 100 companies will present solutions and equipment during the exhibition, which will be held on October 17-19 at the ACCO Exhibition Center. By 2030, local decentralized energy systems will be created in each region of Ukraine, the stability of it will be secured by high-power storage devices (energy storages) and virtual regulators based on blockchain technology. At 50-90% of the electricity generation will be provided by renewable sources, mainly solar and wind power plants. The rest of the electricity will be generated by large hydroelectric power plants, thermal and nuclear power plants, whose capacity will significantly decrease over 12 years. Such a forecast for the change in the energy landscape of Ukraine was made by Vitaliy Daviy, the director of IB Centre Europe Company, the chairman of organizing committee 10th International Forum and Trade Show of Central and Eastern Europe SEF 2018 KYIV. "Today, the largest international energy companies carry out fundamental research and develop projects aimed at combining consumers into one decentralized system. With help of blockchain technology and smart contracts, the existing market model, consisting of manufacturers, distribution network operators, banks, traders because mediators will be simplified," Vitaliy Daviy described the future model. At the same time, the power of renewable energy sources will increase in Ukraine in 9-10 times and will exceed 12 GW by 2030. An incentive to accelerate the construction a large number of green power generation and energy storage facilities will be the rapid fall in prices for equipment and batteries, respectively, by 50-60% and 65-70%, over the next 10 years. Such a change in the state of the technology market will allow green electricity tariffs to be generated, which will be much cheaper than electricity produced by traditional sources. "Obviously, I drew the future, which, in the current conditions, political and economic timetables, looks a little futuristic. There are many people interested in earning big money on a "peaceful" atom, coal, regional energy production companies, and decentralization for them as a verdict. But the main trends in the global energy market are changing the industrial landscape very quickly and these processes are irreversible," he added. 112.intenational is an English-speaking information partner of the SEF 2018 KYIV. In recent years, the development of the alcohol industry is one of the most resonant challenges in the development of the processing segment of Ukraines agricultural sector In recent years, the development of the alcohol industry is one of the most resonant challenges in the development of the processing segment of Ukraines agricultural sector. Creation of the state enterprise Ukrspyrt in 2010 was aimed at improving the efficiency of alcohol production management and ensuring a fundamentally new level of product competitiveness. Despite the favorable organizational, resource-production, and technical prerequisites for expanded reproduction, for a long time the enterprise could not overcome stagnation and reach an upward trend of development. But since the end of 2017 and in the first half of 2018, the company's management managed to localize the crisis and revive the investment projects aimed at modernization and reconstruction of the technological base of alcohol production. During the 7 months of 2018, the state enterprise Ukrspyrt has got 2,8 million USD capital investments, which is 3 times more than during the whole of 2017. Ukrspyrt Acting Director Yuriy Luchechko shares his thoughts on the prospects and priorities of the development of the enterprise, in particular, the increase in the volume of investment and the diversification of production and business activities What should be the main strategic priority of Ukrsyprt to ensure the necessary level of capitalization of alcohol production and the maximum possible utilization of production capacity? This is primarily the production of bioethanol and alternative motor fuel on the unused production sites of the alcohol enterprises. Having established the production of bioethanol, we will be able to ensure the use of an environmentally friendly component in motor fuel, which significantly reduces emissions of toxic substances, reduces dependence on energy imports, and improves the overall environmental situation in the country. Moreover, according to the National Action Plan on Renewable Energy, we are obliged to increase the production of bioethanol for the period until 2020. The National Action Plan envisages that total expected contribution of bioethanol, ethyl tert-butyl ether produced from bioethanol should be 320 thousand tons of oil equivalent in order to achieve the mandatory indicative goals for their consumption in transport for 2020. According to expert estimates, the volume of production based on ethanol (bioethanol) amounted to only 80-85 thousand tons in 2017. With this volume, Ukraine will not be able to fulfill the EU requirements regarding the mandatory use of 10% of biofuel or other renewable resources in fuel for transport. Does the Ukrspyrts rate on the production of bioethanol correlate with the new EU energy indicators? January 1, 2016, an agreement on a free trade zone with the EU has entered into force, and Ukraine is committed to implementing Directive 2009/28/EU of April 23, 2009, which provides for the introduction of biofuels or other renewable fuels in total consumption by 2020 in the amount of 10%. To fulfill these requirements, the Cabinet of Ministers has issued the corresponding order No. 791-p of September 3, 2014 "Action plan for the implementation of the Directive of the European Parliament and Council 2009/28 / EC of April 23, 2009 on encouraging the use of energy produced from renewable energy sources" and No. 902-p of October 1, 2014 "National Action Plan for Renewable Energy for the Period to 2020." In addition to the institutional framework for the production of bioethanol, Ukraine also has preferences in the framework of free trade between our country and the EU, which set duty-free EU tariff quotas for ethanol. The total EU tariff quota for Ukraine for 2018 is 56.2 thousand tons. In 2019, the tariff quota will increase to 70.8 thousand tons, in 2020 - up to 85.4 thousand tons, and in 2021 - up to 100 thousand tons, which means that we are opening up the capacitive market for bioethanol of the European Union countries. Does the company have the necessary technical and technological capabilities for setting up bioethanol production in the near future? Ukrspyrt has the sites, which are currently not used in the production process. They might be used for the production of bioethanol and motor alternative fuels. The company also has technical and technological capabilities for the production of bioethanol from starch-containing raw materials, as well as from sugar-containing raw materials. There are the necessary personnel and technical support for the introduction of technology for the production of motor fuel containing bioethanol based on a compounding installation of gasoline and diesel fuel. How much investment is needed to organize the production of bioethanol? And what about the investment support of the modernization of fixed capital at Ukrspyrt? By overcoming the stagnation processes in the enterprise, as evidenced by the elimination of losses and the establishment of profitable activities, we were able to increase the financing of capital investments. For 7 months of 2018, 2,8 million USD of capital investments were financed, which is three times more than in the whole of 2017. To establish the production of bioethanol and alternative motor fuel, the state-owned enterprise Ukrspyrt plans to modernize eight production facilities in Vinnytsia, Kyiv, Lviv, Ternopil, and Chernivtsi regions. The total investment requirement is 53,3 million USD. In case of establishing bioethanol production, what markets will you try to enter? We will supply bioethanol both to the Ukrainian market and to the markets of the European Union countries. There are all the institutional prerequisites for the development of the EU market, primarily unfilled quotas for the supply of bioethanol from Ukraine. 85.2 thousand tons of products under code UKT VED 2207 20 00 10 "Bioethanol brand B" are planned to be annually sold for export. The company uses the other 80.5 thousand tons of products for the production of commodity items according to the UKT VED code 3824 90 97 10 "Motor fuel" SUPER A "/ 95" and "Motor fuel alternative for gasoline engines." You focus on the significant economic efficiency of the implementation of the proposed strategic priorities for the development of Ukrspyrt. What social effect will be achieved? The expected economic effect would be the growth of revenues to the Consolidated Budget of Ukraine, in particular, to the local budgets. It will significantly increase Ukrspyrts budget-fulfilling role, which will help the depressed agrarian administrative districts recover. The establishment of bioethanol production and other types of products will definitely affect the growth of labor remuneration and will necessitate additional labor resources. This will be a decisive factor in increasing household income and employment of the local population. Read the original text at Ukrspirt.com. Interviewer: Vasyl Holian The foreigners were detained on charges in trafficking Open source A Ukrainian vessel with 65 migrants was intercepted off the shores of Western Greece as Ekathimerini reported. "A vessel with 65 migrants was intercepted in the morning on October 2 by the patrol boat near Kato Vasiliki, Western Greece," the message said. Three foreigners at the age of 30, 32 and 37 were arrested on charges in trafficking. Also, two other suspects were detained: 36-year-old citizen of Greece and 37-year-old foreigner, who were the drivers of the truck that was waiting for the migrants at the coast. Over two hundred Ukrainian sailors are now held in custody in Greece and Italy. State Secretary for Ukraines Foreign Ministry Andriy Zayets said that on August 7. As of June, there were 151 Ukrainian sailors in Greece, 98 of them were detained for transporting illegal migrants. Over a hundred Ukrainian citizens are now held in Italian prisons, judged for the same kind of violation. Ukraines Foreign Ministry reported that 42 citizens of Ukraine were convicted and 78 Ukrainians are under the investigation in Greece due to the accusation of the transfer of the illegal migrants. Earlier we reported that 214 Ukrainian sailors imprisoned in Greece, India, Spain, Libya, Oman and Sri-Lanka as the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine reported. According to BIMCO and ISF, 69,000 Ukrainians worked on foreign ships in 2015. Ukraine was enlisted to the TOP-6 largest supplier of the workforce to the ship owners. Related video: Ambassador Kay Bailey Hutchison expects that Hungary will settle the conflicts with Ukraine on the education law separately In Brussels, Kay Bailey Hutchison, the U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO, repeated the urge to Hungary to stop the preventing of the cooperation of Alliance and Ukraine as Voice of America reported. "We still urge Hungary to not use the bilateral disagreements despite the commitments of NATO to cooperate with Ukraine," the ambassador said. The American representatives still note that Budapest should not take advantage of the member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization for the settlement of issues with other countries. Kay Bailey Hutchison emphasized that "it is important for Ukraine suffering from the Russian aggression at its territory to be helped by any possible ways to contain the Russian aggression." The ambassador expressed the hope that Hungary "will settle the conflicts with Ukraine on the education law separately and join us in NATO to help Ukraine by all possible ways fort the preservation of sovereign territory and stabilize its democracy." The new law on education was signed by Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko on September 25, 2017. In particular, it introduces a 12-year-long school program and limits the number of subjects taught in the languages of national minorities. This particular decision evoked outrage in Moldova, Romania, Russia, and Hungary. Budapest even threatened to slow down the process of Ukraines integration with the EU. Ukraine sent the text of the new legislation to the Council of Europes Venice Commission; meanwhile the Councils Parliamentary Assembly (PACE) announced that it failed to ensure the necessary balance between the countrys state language and the languages of its ethnic minorities. Related video: Heather Nauert, the Spokesperson of the Department, could not confirm the fact of the delivery Open source The U.S. State Department stated that the delivery of S-300 to Syria, which Russia has performed, can lead to a serious escalation, as Heather Nauert, the Spokesperson of the Department, said at the briefing in Washington. I cannot confirm that that is accurate. I hope that they did not. That would be a I think sort of a serious escalation in concerns and issues going on in Syria, but I just cant confirm it, so I dont have anything more for you on that right now, she said. Reportedly, Russian Foreign Ministry informed that S-300 missile system was delivered to Syria. Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that the deliveries of this complex to Damascus began right after the incident with IL-20 intelligence plane which occurred over the Mediterranean Sea. Reportedly, 13 people died as a result of Russias airstrikes at Syrian province Idlib. Later, Russia claimed to be continuing bombardments in Idlib, if necessary. Earlier we also reported that Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) claimed that during the operation of the international anti-terrorist coalition in Syria headed by the U.S., 3,300 civilians died in the result of the air strikes. The Russian President called the Skripal's case "another spy scandal, which is being artificially blown" Open source The Russian President Vladimir Putin states that he considers Sergei Skripal a scum and national traitor, and the scandal with the poisoning of the ex-GRU officer and his daughter is artificially blown, as Interfax reports. Speaking of Skripals, its just another spy scandal, which is artificially blown way out of proportion I see that some of your colleagues are pushing the theory that Mr. Skripal is almost a human rights activist. He is just a spy. A traitor. There is such term national traitor. And he is one of them, the Russian President stated. Imagine that some person betrays his country. How do you treat him? Any of the present representatives of any country here? He is a scum thats it, Putin stressed. Putin expressed hope that the story about Skripals will soon be over. I think that this will end some day. The sooner, the better, he said. Earlier we also reported that Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov were previously arrested in the Netherlands. The Insider marked that the two visited the Netherlands in April 2016, exactly when the mentioned referendum took place. As we reported the Crown Prosecution Service of the U.K. called the names of the suspects in the poisoning of the ex-GRU officer Sergey Skripal and his daughter Yulia. The police suspect Russians Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov. They are accused of the poisoning of Skripals, a police officer who participated in the investigation and two citizens of the U.K. poisoned in Amesbury. Later it was reported that there could be four more suspects in the Skripals case - apart from Aleksandr Petrov and Ruslan Boshyrov, whose names were revealed by the British counter-intelligence. As it was reported Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were poisoned in British Salisbury. Later, Theresa May, British PM, stated that Russia was responsible for that, and the investigation has confirmed the use of the Novichok nerve agent, which is produced in Russia. Related video: Russia informs that this process will enhance "the protection of its military" Open source Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoygu claimed the delivery of S-300 missile system to Syria, as Interfax reports. We have completed the delivery of S-300. It includes 49 units of equipment: lighting radars, basic determination systems, of course, command vehicles and four missile launchers, he said. It was reported that the system will be set till October 20. Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that the deliveries of this complex to Damascus began right after the incident with IL-20 intelligence plane which occurred over the Mediterranean Sea. Reportedly, 13 people died as a result of Russias airstrikes at Syrian province Idlib. Later, Russia claimed to be continuing bombardments in Idlib, if necessary. Earlier we also reported that Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) claimed that during the operation of the international anti-terrorist coalition in Syria headed by the U.S., 3,300 civilians died in the result of the air strikes. The Head of the so-called DNR was murdered on August 31 in Donetsk Zakharchenkos murder, the Head of the so-called DNR, benefited Russia, as Deputy Head of the Security Service Viktor Kononenko said at the briefing, Interfax-Ukraine reports. The elimination of Zakharchenko primarily benefited Russian side so that it could control the temporarily occupied territories, Kononenko noted. Reportedly, on August 31, as a result of the explosion in the restaurant in the downtown of Donetsk, head of so-called DNR Aleksandr Zakharchenko died. The Russian mass media reported that Oleksandr Timofeyev, so-called "minister of revenue and duties" of so-called "DNR" has also died. The so-called law enforcers of the self-proclaimed Donetsk Peoples Republic stated that they detained Ukrainian saboteurs who are presumably involved in the assassination of Zakharchenko. Although, SBU hasnt approved the information. ORDO, Separate district of Donetsk region, suspects one of the guards of Zakharchenko in his death. At the same time, the Russian MFA accused "Kyiv regime" in the death of Zakharchenko. It was reported on the closure of all crossing checkpoints along the Inter-Entity Boundary Line because of the incident. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences over the murder of Zakharchenko. The Internet campaign began in Ukraine, aiming to change the tradition of spelling 'Kiev' to 'Kyiv' Ukraine's Foreign Ministry started the campaign dubbed KyivNotKiev, asking the foreign media to spell their capital city correctly. According to KyivPost, 'the ministry plans to post on its pages on Facebook and Twitter a request to international media, such as Reuters, the New York Times, the BBC, and others, to use in English versions of Ukrainian place names transliterated from Ukrainian, not Russian.' 'Ukraine has been an independent sovereign nation for more than 27 years, but the Soviet-era versions of many geographic names stubbornly persist in international practice,' the ministry's Facebook page says. 'The usage of Soviet-era place names rooted in the Russian language is unacceptable to the people of Ukraine,' the outlet wrote. The Ukrainian authority also suggests that international media use purely Ukrainian speling for such cities as Kharkiv, Odesa, Mykolaiv, and others, as well as 'Ukraine instead of the widespread mistake, 'the Ukraine'. Read the full story here. Open source Two Dutch citizens detained in France while carrying 650 kilograms of cocaine in the Ukraine-registered van. La Depeche reported this on Tuesday, October 2. French customs office workers stopped the vehicle that allegedly carried fish; they halted the car near Toulouse, as the driver and the passenger acted nervously. During the careful check, the law enforcers found 650 kilograms of cocaine, which is worth 40 million Euros on the black market. The two men and the vehicle were detained for further investigation. Last month, a service dog of Ukraine's State Border Guard discovered a load of cocaine in the suitcase. The incident occurred at Boryspil airport, as the suitcase underwent a security check on its way from Warsaw to Tel Aviv. The service dog raised alarm when one of the bags passed by. During the detailed check of the suitcase, the workers found a hidden section with five wraps with a white, cocaine-like substance inside. The overall weight made 5.4 kilograms. TORONTO, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Electrovaya Inc. (Electrovaya or the Company) (TSX: EFL; OTCQX: EFLVF) today provided a business update covering a number of topics. Electrovaya is focused on supplying lithium ion batteries for the Materials Handling Electric Vehicle (MHEV) sector, an emerging and rapidly growing market opportunity. The Company is pleased to announce that it has received new purchase orders worth more than US $1.9 million (Cdn $2.4 million) to bring the total value of announced purchase orders received since the end of the June 30, 2018 quarter to US $3.2 million (Cdn $4.1 million). These orders are from the MHEV and Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGV) sector which require highest-quality batteries as the vehicles tend to operate for extended periods, as long as 24 hours a day. During Q3 2018, the Company entered into a binding agreement for the sale and leaseback of its Mississauga, Ontario headquarters for gross proceeds of Cdn $22.5 million. Proceeds will be used to pay down debt and for working capital purposes. The closing date for the sale has been extended to October 22, 2018. The Company has continued to showcase its forklift battery products at trade shows, including The Global Cold Chain Expo in Chicago, Illinois and both the Battery Show and Critical Power Expo in Novi, Michigan. Dr. Sankar Das Gupta, Electrovayas Chief Executive Officer, was recently invited to participate in a panel discussion attended by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi and several of his ministers, regarding the energy transformation of India. India could become one of the largest markets for lithium ion batteries as electric vehicle adoption in the country increases and the government plans to generate increasing amounts of energy from solar and other intermittent renewable sources. For more information, please contact: Peter Koven Bay Street Communications Telephone: 1.647.496.7857 Email: peterkoven@baystreetcommunications.com About Electrovaya Inc. Electrovaya Inc. (TSX:EFL) (OTCQX:EFLVF) designs, develops and manufactures proprietary Lithium Ion Super Polymer batteries, battery systems, and battery-related products for energy storage, clean electric transportation and other specialized applications. Headquartered in Ontario, Canada, Electrovaya is a technology focused company with extensive IP, supplying leading global customers. To learn more about how Electrovaya is powering mobility and energy storage, please explore www.electrovaya.com . Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements that relate to, among other things, the expected closing date for the sale of the Companys headquarters and the expected use of proceeds therefrom, the Companys need for commoditized contract manufacturing facilities in its product development process, the effect of Litarions insolvency filing on the Companys financial position and performance, the future direction of the Companys business and products, the effect of a structured sale of Litarion, including on the Companys overhead and operations, the Companys ability to source supply to satisfy demand for its products and satisfy current order volume, revenue forecasts, anticipated orders and deliveries in CY2018 and beyond, demand for the Company's products, technology development progress, pre-launch plans, plans for product development, plans to work with OEMs, plans to sell directly to user, plans for shipment using the Companys technology, production plans, the Companys markets, objectives, goals, strategies, intentions, beliefs, expectations and estimates, and can generally be identified by the use of words such as may, will, could, should, would, likely, "possible", expect, intend, estimate, anticipate, believe, plan, objective and continue (or the negative thereof) and words and expressions of similar import. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Certain material factors or assumptions are applied in making forward-looking statements, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Material assumptions used to develop forward-looking information in this news release include, among other things, that current customers will continue to make and increase orders for the Companys products, that the Companys alternate supply chain will be adequate to replace material supply and manufacturing, that the Companys interpretation of the effect of any comfort given to Litarions auditors of the Companys financial support for Litarions operations is correct, and that Litarions insolvency process will proceed in an orderly fashion that will satisfy Litarions debt without a significant negative effect on the Company or its assets. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations include but are not limited to: the purchaser of the Companys headquarters not completing the purchase transaction as expected for any reason, actions taken by creditors and remedies granted by German courts in the Litarion insolvency proceedings and their effect on the Companys business and assets, negative reactions of the Companys existing customers to Litarions insolvency process, general business and economic conditions (including but not limited to currency rates and creditworthiness of customers); Company liquidity and capital resources, including the availability of additional capital resources to fund its activities; level of competition; changes in laws and regulations; legal and regulatory proceedings; the ability to adapt products and services to the changing market; the ability to attract and retain key executives; and the ability to execute strategic plans. Additional information about material factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations and about material factors or assumptions applied in making forward-looking statements may be found in the Companys Annual Information Form (AIF) for the year ended September 30, 2017 and in the Companys most recent annual and interim Managements Discussion and Analysis under Risk and Uncertainties as well as in other public disclosure documents filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the forward-looking statements contained in this document, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Klimkin also thinks that the discussion on the dual citizenship is long overdue in Ukraine Open source Foreign Minister of Ukraine Pavlo Klimkin claimed that the Hungarian consul who appears in the video with a number of the Ukrainian citizens in Berehovo who get the Hungarian passports and took an oath of fealty to Hungaria, will leave Ukraine as European Truth reported. "However, there is no need to discuss on some particular actions of the Hungarian consul; we should clearly set the record straight. And we will do it. In the coming days, the consul will return to the homeland," the minister said. Klimkin emphasized that either consul and his leaders in Budapest knew that Ukraine has objections on the provision of the second citizenship to its citizens as the Constitution and the legislation of Ukraine provided only one citizenship, Ukrainian. "The fact that there is no criminal or administrative responsibility for the dual citizenship does not alter the situation. The violation remains to be a violation and hostile actions are hostile," Ukrainian minister wrote. Also, Klimkin thinks that the discussion on the dual citizenship is long overdue in Ukraine. "We are well aware that in Ukraine, dozens or even hundred thousands of people have the passports of the neighboring countries. And it is not only about the ethnic Hungarians. I think it is necessary to hold a discussion on the attitude of the state to this numerous group of the compatriots. I note the discussion not for the worsening of their state or for the stigmatize them as the traitors but for the reasonable legal and other conflicts." Earlier, Ukrinfrom published a video where a few Ukrainians are receiving Hungarian passports and owe allegiance to Hungry in the Consulate in Berehove. The Hungarian diplomat recommended not to inform the Ukrainian authorities about receiving the new documents. Later, Pavlo Klimkin, the Foreign Minister, said that the video is being checked on the authenticity. If it is authentic, the Hungarian consul might be expelled from the country. In his turn, Peter Szijjarto, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs, claimed the attempts to intimidate the Transcarpathian Hungarians and threatened to make Ukraines integration more complicated. Later it was also reported that for seven years, the Hungarian consulates in Berehove and Uzhhorod of Zakarpattia region have been granting Hungarian citizenship to local residents who are citizens of Ukraine. Yuriy Lutsenko, Prosecutor General claimed that Ukraine's Security Service investigates this case; however, the service denied this. Tamas Menczer, Hungarys Foreign Minister Spokespoerson later reported that Hungary does not intend to withdraw its consul from Berehovo due to the scandalous video about issuance of Hungarian passports to the Ukrainians. In its turn, Ukraine claimed that in case, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Hungary does not withdraw their consul from Berehove, Zakarpattia region, and then Ukraine will offer him to abandon the territory. Related video: According to the political expert Igor Pilayev, nobody is actually carrying out political talks on the crises The law on the status of Donbas will be presented for voting in the Verkhovna Rada due to the pressure of the U.S. and the EU, as Igor Pilayev, a political scientist, said on air of 112 Ukraine. I think that the law on Donbas special status will, probably, be voted for, as Europe and the U.S. are pressing. The ruling fractions will have to adopt this law on the prolongation of the special status, he claimed. Yet, the law has not come in force and it all remains in name only. Nobody carries out political talks on the crises. We remember, that the Normandy Four has been gathered a long time ago, and the Minsk formt is actually coming to a halt, the expert added. Reportedly, Ukrainian leader Petro Poroshenko sent to the Parliament a draft bill, offering to extend the special status of Donbas until the end of the next year. The document envisages that the special order of local governance will be extended in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions by December 31, 2019. The special status, however, will only start working when the aggressor country withdraws all illegal armed formations, militants, mercenaries, and vehicles from Ukraine. As we reported, since Tuesday morning, Russian mercenaries attacked Ukrainian positions in Donbas 34 times. That resulted in casualties among the Ukrainian forces, as one Ukrainian serviceman deceased, and another two more were wounded. Related video: Andriy Sadovy called the youth for fighting for Ukraine together Lviv Mayor and leader of Samopomish (a Ukrainian political party, - ed.) Andriy Sadovy intendeds to run for president in Ukraine, as he said during the meeting with the youth, partys press office reported. My goal is simple and complicated simultaneously to reinstate your belief in Ukraine. The whole world is open to you today, but it is only here that you can build your own country. I suggest fighting for it together! he noted. Sadovy wants to focus on the necessity of the mobilization of young people, the fight against corruption and mutual covering-up system in politics, as well as the technological modernization of the country. Soon, the politician will reveal the team composition. He also called for uniting all the forces which support changes. Presidential elections in Ukraine are scheduled on March 13, 2019. The elections to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine will be held on October 27, 2019. Ukraines President Petro Poroshenko stated that he guarantees free, fair, democratic elections of the president, parliament, and local authorities. Roman Bezsmertny, former People's Deputy of Ukraine, former Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, Yulia Tymoshenko, People's Deputy of Ukraine and former prime minister of Ukraine (2005; 2007-2010), Anatoliy Hrytsenko, former Minister of Defence of Ukraine (2005-2007) declared their intentions to run for the presidency. The current President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko has not officially announced his participation in the elections. Open source The Ministry of Health of Ukraine will additionally attract $3.5 million for the treatment of the Ukrainians abroad in 2018. October 3, the Ministry adopted the budgetary reallocation, its press office reports. The Ministry of Health of Ukraine attracted additional funds for the treatment of Ukrainians abroad of $3.5 million by the budgetary reallocation from other programs of the Ministry, reads the message. In particular, the part of the funds will be reallocated from the program Realization of a pilot project regarding changes in the mechanism of financial support of surgical treatment for transplantation of organs and other anatomical materials. It is mentioned that the $3.5 million will be enough for the treatment of 38 patients abroad. However, as of October 1, there are 96 people in the queue. As was reported, the Ministry of Health of Ukraine has unreflectively spent $10 million of budget funds allocated for the treatment of patients having oncological diseases abroad. The use of state funds for treatment of cancer patients abroad is associated with a scandal with the Deputy Minister of Health of Ukraine Oleksandr Lynchevskiy during his speech at the Chamber of Accounts at the discussion of the report on the results of the audit of the effectiveness of state budget funds allocated to the Ministry of Health for treating Ukrainian citizens abroad. In particular, Lynchevskiy stated about non-effectiveness of funds usage in connection with the high rate of mortality of patients diagnosed with cancer. Later, Lynchevskiy claimed that his words have taken out from context and do not reflect the position of the Ministry of Health, and the published transcript of the session is incomplete. Deputy Head of Security Service: Dual citizenship is forbidden by Ukraine's law, but no criminal liability is provided for it The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) assures that the legislative branch of Ukraine needs to decide on the possibility of the implementation of the criminal liability for the dual citizenship. Viktor Kononenko, the Deputy Head of the SBU claimed this as Interfax-Ukraine reported. "The dual citizenship is forbidden in our country by law, but no criminal liability is provided for it," Kononenko said. He expressed the opinion that the issue should be resolved by law. "Our lawmakers should define whether it is a criminal liability," Kononenko claimed. He also assured that the service is tracking the processes that take place in Zakarpattia to prevent the expression of the separatism, commission of crimes connected with the loss of the territorial integrity of Ukraine. Earlier, Ukrinfrom published a video where a few Ukrainians receive Hungarian passports and owe allegiance to Hungry in the Consulate in Berehove. The Hungarian diplomat recommended not to inform the Ukrainian authorities about receiving the new documents. Yuriy Lutsenko, Prosecutor General claimed that Ukraine's Security Service investigates this case; however, the service denied this. Tamas Menczer, Hungarys Foreign Minister Spokespoerson, later reported that Hungary does not intend to withdraw its consul from Berehovo due to the scandalous video about the issuance of Hungarian passports to the Ukrainians. In its turn, Ukraine claimed that in case, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Hungary does not withdraw their consul from Berehove, Zakarpattia region, and then Ukraine will offer him to abandon the territory. Related video: Minister Klimkin emphasized that it is necessary to consider the interests of the Ukrainians with the dual citizenship who want to work in Ukraine Ukraine needs a fair and frank discussion on the dual citizenship. Pavlo Klimkin, the Foreign Minister of Ukraine, claimed this during the meeting with his Moldovan colleague as 112 Ukraine reported. "I think that we really need a frank and fair discussion on our current situation. We know that dozens of thousands of the Ukrainian citizens have a second citizenship. How do we treat these citizens? The law states that we consider them as the citizens of Ukraine," he said. According to the minister, a new legislation should consider the interests of the Ukrainians with the dual citizenship who want to work back home. "I do not mean that we should talk about the ways to secure it, but we need a new discussion. I am sure that we need a new legislation. But there are flagrant things: dozens and hundreds Ukrainian with the Canadian or American citizenship who want to work here, in Ukraine, help it. Why can't we decide the issue on their ability to work there, including our state bodies," he concluded. Earlier, Ukrinfrom published a video where a few Ukrainians receive Hungarian passports and owe allegiance to Hungry in the Consulate in Berehove, Zakarpattia region. The Hungarian diplomat recommended not to inform the Ukrainian authorities about receiving the new documents. Yuriy Lutsenko, Prosecutor General, claimed that Ukraine's Security Service investigates this case; however, the service denied this. Tamas Menczer, Hungarys Foreign Minister Spokesperson, later reported that Hungary did not intend to withdraw its consul from Berehove due to the scandalous video about the issuance of Hungarian passports to the Ukrainians. In its turn, Ukraine claimed that in case, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Hungary does not withdraw their consul from Berehove, and then Ukraine will offer him to abandon the territory. Related video: SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BrainChip Holdings Ltd. (BrainChip or the Company) (ASX:BRN), the leading neuromorphic computing company, today announced that it will be exhibiting BrainChip Studio and Accelerator at Booth 672 at The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) conference 2018. The conference will be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida on October 6-9. BrainChip Studio is an AI-powered video analysis software suite delivering high-speed object search and facial classification. It finds faces and objects 20 times quicker than a human operator. The software and hardware accelerated solutions work with existing infrastructure, even with low-light and low-resolution images. BrainChip Accelerator is a computer plug-in (PCIe) card that represents the worlds first commercial hardware acceleration of neuromorphic computing, a type of artificial intelligence that models the human neuron. It delivers a six-fold performance boost to BrainChip Studio and can process up to 16 channels of video simultaneously. Live demonstrations of the BrainChip Studio software suite and BrainChip Accelerator hardware will be given throughout the event. BrainChip Studio and Accelerator are multi award-winning solutions, having won the respected 2017 New Product of the Year for Video Analytics by Security Today Magazine as well as The Milipol Innovation Awards. Judges have recognised that BrainChip can free up a law enforcement agencys workforce to focus on frontline duties. The IACP Annual Conference and Exposition is the largest and most important law enforcement event of the year; more than 15,000 public safety professionals gather to learn new techniques, advance their knowledge and careers, and equip their department for ongoing success. About BrainChip Holdings Ltd. (ASX:BRN) BrainChip Holdings Ltd. is the leading provider of neuromorphic computing solutions, a type of artificial intelligence that is inspired by the biology of the human neuron. The Companys revolutionary new spiking neural network technology can learn autonomously, evolve and associate information just like the human brain. The proprietary technology is fast, completely digital and consumes very low power. The Company provides software and hardware solutions that address the high-performance requirements in civil surveillance, gaming, financial technology, cybersecurity, ADAS, autonomous vehicles, and other advanced vision systems. www.brainchip.com Company Contact Robert Beachler rbeachler@brainchipinc.com +1 (949) 330-6750 Media Contact (US): Kerry McClenahan Publitek North America kerry.mcclenahan@publitek.com +1 (503) 546-1002 Investor Relations: ir@brainchipinc.com Media Contact (Europe): Nayl DSouza Publitek nayl.dsouza@publitek.com +44 20 3813 6423 The US Threatens Russia Over Missiles Washington claims Moscow violated an arms control treaty. The United States has threatened to pre-emptively strike Russian missiles aimed at Europe. Its stated justification is that the missiles in question are medium range and thus in violation of a 1987 anti-missile treaty. They were initially singled out in the treaty because they could be rapidly prepared for launch and arrive on target with minimal or no warning time. That meant that it could knock out European retaliatory capability, undermining the deterrent effect of Europe-based systems. Washingtons ambassador to NATO, Kay Bailey Hutchison, said the U.S. remained committed to finding a diplomatic solution but was prepared to consider a military strike if Russian development of the medium-range system continued. She made it clear that the onus of diplomacy would fall on Washingtons European allies. Presumably, this means Germany, which has a somewhat functional relationship with Russia. U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis said he would address the issue with his NATO counterparts tomorrow. The U.S. has expressed concern about these missiles before, but this is the first time it has threatened to destroy them. Its unclear what a pre-emptive strike would involve, but its safe to assume Russia would consider it an act of provocation and could escalate conflict accordingly. Our initial reaction is that it is a test of NATO. Most of the U.S. comments appear to be directed not at Russia but at its European allies, many of which, Washington believes, have been overly permissive about Russian missiles. If NATO is content to allow what the U.S. claims are violations of a Russian treaty commitment, then it says a lot about NATO. The U.S. has made military action contingent on the failure of the diplomatic route. And here, the U.S. expects the Europeans to take the lead. In a sense, the U.S. is trying to force Europe to take this seriously. And its reminding its allies that it wont shrink from unilateral action, however unlikely the prospect may be. Russias intentions are difficult to parse. The threat posed by these missiles does change the balance of power in Europe somewhat. Russia seemed to think that apart from the expected rhetoric from the U.S., and absent anachronized notions of nuclear deterrence, nothing would happen. From the American point of view, a treaty violation is significant. But the incident raises perhaps an even more important question: If the Russians see the nuclear balance as archaic and threats to Europe as outmoded, then why is it deploying this missile? The development of the missile likely indicates that the Russians do not see this as archaic. For the U.S., threatening to strike the Russian sites is meant to galvanize the Europeans and drive home the fact that in geopolitics, nothing is archaic. Ruminating on the Brett Kavanaugh controversy, one Brooklyn professor has come up with a takeand watch out, it is very hot! According to one Mitchell Langbert, an associate professor of business at Brooklyn College, sexually assaulting your peers should be considered a litmus test for manliness. Langbert espoused this bad opinionalong with a handful of classic, MRA-style myths about sexual assault survivors and relived traumain a blog post no one asked for, published September 27th but unremarked upon until now, because everyone had more important things to pay attention to last week. Professor Langbert (via) "If someone did not commit sexual assault in high school, then he is not a member of the male sex," Langbert opined, going on to lambaste the bunch of "tutu-wearing pansies" who comprise the Democratic party for destroying a man's life and career over "a series of supposed spin-the-bottle crimes" dredged from a Supreme Court nominee's wayward youth. "The Kavanaugh hearing is a travesty, and if the Republicans are going to allow the sissy party to use this travesty to stop conservatism, then it is time found a new political party," Langbert concluded. "In the future, having committed sexual assault in high school ought to be a prerequisite for all appointments, judicial and political. Those who did not play spin-the-bottle when they were 15 should not be in public life." Kavanaugh, of course, has been accused of a lot more than playing spin the bottle: According to Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, who recounted her experience in a moving and raw testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee on the same day Langbert sat fuming at his blogspot page, Trump's SCOTUS nominee and his best friend ambushed her at a house party while they were wildly intoxicated, a 17-year-old Kavanaugh muffling her screams as he held her down and tried to rape her. Although Dr. Fordwho, as a psychology professor, is extremely aware of the ways in which the brain recalls and stores experiencesadmitted her memory had some holes after three decades of wear, she told the Committee she remained "100 percent certain" it was Kavanaugh who attacked her. Then there's Deborah Ramirez, who says Kavanaugh drunkenly forced his penis into her face when they were both freshman at Yale. Additionally, former federal government employee Julie Swetnick has stated in a sworn affidavit that Kavanaugh's alleged habit of getting aggressively, belligerently drunk led him to regularly accost women at parties in his teen years, and further, that he actively worked to incapacitate those women so that large groups of boys could rape them, one after another. Another witness came forward last night with a sworn statement corroborating Swetnick's allegations. When we asked Langbert, an apparent "member of the male sex," to comment on what might be considered a fairly damning self-own, and how he understands the difference between spin the bottle and Dr. Ford's allegations, he responded thus: "It is a satirical and hyperbolic piece. There is no evidence that Kavanaugh did anything of the sort. The arguments are sarcastic, not literal. I have been threatened with assault by several Democrats. I can forward the hate mail and threats. If this were about disliking assault, why would I be threatened with assault? The Democrats have become an authoritarian party that aims to silence dissent. This is a characteristic case. My blog is a cry against the authoritarian violence that threatens anyone who does not toe the Democratic Party line. I am tired of the bigotry." Speaking to Bklyner, Langbert also asserted that baseless sexual harassment allegations have similarly been leveraged to "defame, lie about, and attempt to harm the careers of faculty." He went on to add that he himself has twice been forced to defend himself against such claims. Speaking to the NY Post, he added: "It's natural for males to be sexually exploratory. As long as there is no coercion or violence it's not a crime." Please recall, the accusations against Kavanaugh include both coercion and violence. We have reached out to Brooklyn College for comment, and will update if and when we hear back. This morning, Brooklyn College Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Anne Lopes issued this statement: It has come to our attention that a Brooklyn College faculty member blogged a gender-biased and homophobic post that advocates sexual assault last week. I view the post as offensive, obviously abhorrent, and contravening the fundamental values and practices of our community. However, the First Amendment to the United States Constitution protects even speech that many experience as offensive, such as the faculty member's post. I understand that in response to the speech students have organized a protest that will take place on the East Quad on Thursday during common hours. In the meantime, we hope that people will respond to abhorrent speech with persuasion. We have set up a webpage to collect the communitys reflections about the faculty members post and related topics here. Over the next week, we will plan a forum to share and discuss the communitys reflections. I will be in touch with the details. Students and faculty are planning a protest against Professor Langbert on campus Thursday afternoon. The L train is growing older, crankier, corroded-ier, and as it hurtles toward the dark abyss, it's not going gentle into that good night. No, our beloved but frail L train, like a plucky Great Aunt who's just reminding you that she won't be around forever, doesn't want you to take its final moments for granted. To ensure that, the L line will partially take off more than a dozen upcoming weekendsincluding every single one this monthahead of the total shutdown between 8th Avenue and Bedford Avenue in April. In case that's not enough, you'll get occasional tastes of misery, entirely unplanned and unannounced, in the days in between. Soon enough, you'll look back on these moments fondly, realizing you never knew how good you had it: @JamieStelter absolute nightmare at Bedford Ave L train platform. pic.twitter.com/a3Mkcmh6kH Fina (@LaMasFina) October 3, 2018 According to the MTA, this morning's "absolute nightmare" comes courtesy of a Manhattan-bound train with a broken door at Bedford Avenue. The busted door, which no one seems to have seen, triggered evacuations and unexplained standstills, and left commuting North Brooklynites in the dark about whether their trains would ever make it into the city (they would not). For about 30 minutes, the MTA wouldn't say what was happening, as their shiny new app showed "good service" and their communications-focused conductors promised false salvation. It did not help things that all of this started at 8:30 on a Wednesday at the busiest stop on one of the busiest commuting lines serving many of the most aggressively online people in NYC. I was on the train behind the stuck one, which sat at Lorimer for 20 minutes with promises we were heading to Union Square, then kicked us all off onto a dangerously crowded platform at Bedford Megan Greenwell (@megreenwell) October 3, 2018 Thanks. I hope youre paying this person a salary @MTA theyve been more helpful than anyone who works for you. Gloria Teal (@glo_tea) October 3, 2018 Whats the point of going in early .. to be sitting on an L train for 20 minutes with announcements you cant make out... and when you look at the service info on website it says good service ... Wednesday jokes!!!! Mta not going my way again!!! come on guys !! @mta #nyc #Ltrain bronxgirl (@hope2ceeu) October 3, 2018 There was also apparently a second door problem at Wilson Avenue, contributing to delays that continued well into the 10 o'clock hour. We've reached out to the MTA, and will update if we hear back. In the meantime, just keep reminding yourself: One day you're going to miss this. L train is a Mess pic.twitter.com/wcdoXgOLlK YGutierrez (@ygutierrezy) October 3, 2018 New York tax authorities are looking to recover millions of dollars allegedly swiped from city and state coffers by Donald Trump, following a bombshell report exposing the president as a serial fraudster who orchestrated and benefitted from a series of elaborate schemes intended to minimize the amount of taxes he paid on his trust fund. In a lengthy investigation published on Tuesday, the New York Times reported that Trump, who's long postured as a self-made millionaire, received at least $413 million from his father's (habitually racist) real estate empire. The vast inheritance was made larger by a "sham corporation" set up by Trump and his siblings, the Times found, which helped the family avoid hundreds of millions of dollars in owed taxes. The children, who should've owed at least $550 million in taxes, managed to pay just $55.2 million on the familial gifts, thanks to the corporation and other instances of "outright fraud." One of their favorite tactics, according to the Times, involved fudging the actual value of Fred Trump's properties by taking advantage of "friendly" appraisals and blindspots in the IRS's auditing system. (In one instance, the family claimed that some 6,988 apartments were worth just $41.4 million; soon after, a bank put that same valuation at $900 million). The family was also known to jack up rents in stabilized apartments by falsely claiming that major capital improvements had been madea maneuver that tenant advocates say remains all too common throughout the city. Ive directed NYCs Department of Finance to immediately investigate tax and housing violations and to work with NY State to find out if appropriate taxes were paid. https://t.co/AVCJ0VWH3T Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) October 3, 2018 In response to that and other takeaways from the wide-ranging report, de Blasio announced the city's intention "to recoup any money that Donald Trump owes the people of New York City, period." The state's tax authorities also opened their own investigation, and the (likely) future Attorney General of New York, Letitia James, called for additional inquiries from any agency with jurisdiction. Asked on Wednesday what the city should've done differently, the mayor acknowledged that Trump's long history of tax avoidance was in many ways an "indictment of the culture of New York City and New York State going back decades." "There was a good old boy network that obviously Donald Trump played like a fiddle and evaded the kind of regulation and investigation and prosecution he should have received many times over," de Blasio told reporters. He then went on to suggest that Trump had likely bribed his way out of IRS scrutiny. "I think the bigger history will come out about at some point about how he finagled and paid his way to being somehow able to escape the kind of scrutiny and prosecution he deserved," the mayor said. "Honestly if a lot of people in New York State had done their jobs he would never have been president of the United States." While there's no statute of limitations to apply civil fines, tax experts say that it's probably too late to criminally prosecute the president for his role in the family's racket. But while we're on the subject, New York's tax authorities might consider looking into the ultra-rich tax-dodgers and shady rent gougers who haven't yet made their way to the White House. Some 200 firefighters have been battling a "stubborn" blaze in a downtown Manhattan building since 1:45 a.m. on Wednesday. The six-alarm fire broke out on the first floor of 188 First Avenue in the East Village. The FDNY said it would be a "prolonged operation" because firefighters cannot get to the "seat of the fire." Three civilians suffered non-life-threatening injuries, as did 11 firefighters. #FDNY members continue to operate on scene of a 6-alarm fire at 188 1 Ave in Manhattan. There are currently 2 non-life-threatening injuries to civilians, and 11 injuries to Firefighters. pic.twitter.com/egjperJxZu FDNY (@FDNY) October 3, 2018 @FDNY fighting a fire early this morning in the East Village. pic.twitter.com/7G0irOGKBD Sara Kerens (@sarakerens) October 3, 2018 FDNY Chief of Department James Leonard described it as a "very difficult, stubborn fire to fight." Apparently the building, which is five stories high and has apartments on the upper floors, was built with wood that "is thicker and better than it is today." "Much of the roof on the first floor extension has burned away, but because of the collapse hazard we can't get in there. And that's the problem, why we can't put this fire out right now," Leonard said. There are also structural concerns for the building. Nearby schools are closed: Families have been notified via @NotifyNYC. For more information please call the Emergency Information Center: 718-935-3210 [2/2] https://t.co/FCuLzFzEAw NYC Public Schools (@NYCSchools) October 3, 2018 Neighboring buildings were also evacuated. We'll update as more information becomes available. We find ourselves in the eleventh hour of an FBI investigation into sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, an apparent rush job poised to conclude as soon as today. Yet witnesses continue to come forward, declaring themselves ready to volunteer information: On Tuesday, attorney Michael Avenatti tweeted another sworn affidavit from a woman who says she knows two of Kavanaugh's accusers, and can confirm key details from their accounts. Furthermore, she is ready and willing to answer any questions the FBI might want to ask her, under penalty of perjury. Avenatti's latest witness, who would seem to be one of the women the attorney says "deserves to be heard & interviewed by the FBI before any vote on the nomination," identified herself as a 1983 graduate of a Washington, D.C.-area high school. She allegedly met Kavanaugh and his reported partner in crime, Mark Judge, during Beach Week 1980, and recalls that they all attended "at least 20" of the same house parties between that year and 1982. She knew the boys well because they ran in the same social circles, she said. Further, she has known Dr. Christine Blasey Ford and Julie Swetnick "for decades," she said, and "believe[s] they are both honest and truthful." On many occasions, she stated, she watched Kavanaugh and Judge "drink excessively and be overly aggressive and verbally abusive toward girls," making "inappropriate physical contact ... of a sexual nature" with the women in attendance. An underage Kavanaugh in particular made a habit of "drinking to a point where he was incoherent and vomiting," she added. The witness went on to say that she'd seen that Fox News interview in which Kavanaugh pled the virgin defense, which she characterized as "laughable," "absolutely false and a lie" based on what she'd seen. "I witnessed firsthand Brett Kavanaugh, together with others, 'spike' the 'punch' at house parties I attended with Quaaludes and/or grain alcohol," she said. "I understood this was being done for the purpose of making girls more likely to engage in sexual acts and less likely to say 'no.'" URGENT: Below please find an email just sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee, together with a declaration from another witness who confirms a number of Ms. Swetnick's claims. These women deserve to be heard & interviewed by the FBI before any vote on the nomination. pic.twitter.com/upkoIWfKxz Michael Avenatti (@MichaelAvenatti) October 2, 2018 Her account sounds a lot like that offered by Swetnick, another of Avenatti's clients. Swetnick says that Kavanaugh, Judge, and his buddies routinely slipped substances into women's drinks, with an eye to orchestrating their targets' "train" rapes by groups of boys. Swetnick, who identified herself as a victim of these assaults without specifically naming Kavanaugh as a perpetrator, also said that Kavanaugh regularly berated and humiliated women during his benders. Whether or not the FBI will interview Swetnickor this mystery witnessin the course of its investigation remains unclear, if unlikely, given reports that the agency may wrap its inquest Wednesday. The agency is pressed for time, given President Trump's paradoxical demand that it take a super-quick-but-thorough look at all available evidence in assessing allegations Dr. Ford made before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday. She was cooperative, credible, and forthcoming, whereas Kavanaugh immediately launched into an unbridled attack mode that, in addition to concerns over his past behaviors, raised real questions about his temperament and ability to control himself on the Court. Since Dr. Ford came forward, Trump aides have reportedly been shocked and relieved at the "restraint" he showed in not immediately criticizing her on Twitter. That discipline has eroded, though: Speaking at a rally for a campaign that never actually ended, Trump indulged in open mockery of the witness. "'I don't know. I don't know.' 'Upstairs? Downstairs? Where was it?' 'I don't know. But I had one beer. That's the only thing I remember,'" Trump said, impersonating Dr. Ford. Characterizing the women who have accused Kavanaugh of misconduct as "really evil people" who clawed a man's life to "tatters," the president implored the women in his audience to think of their husbands and sons in the nominee's position. In response, two Republican Senators whose votes Trump requires to jam Kavanaugh's nomination through Congress expressed concern. "The president's comments were just plain wrong," Maine Sen. Susan Collins said, while Arizona Sen. Jeff Flake was somewhat milder in his condemnation. Noting that "there's no time and place for remarks like that," Flake called the commentary "kind of appalling." (Kind of!) Sen. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, meanwhile, seemed to accept some of Trump's speech as true: Does anyone really think that the same people who called Judge Kavanaugh evil long before they heard one word of testimony will be satisfied? Its time to put this embarrassing spectacle behind us, and vote on this impressive, stunningly qualified Supreme Court nominee. Leader McConnell (@senatemajldr) October 3, 2018 Still, some of the people who'd previously vouched for Kavanaugh's character have publicly revoked their support. Two of his Yale classmates wrote the Judiciary Committee retracting their endorsement of the candidate, on the grounds that his testimony evinced partisanship and "was not judicious." And on Monday, Brookings Institute Senior Fellow Benjamin Wittes published an op-ed in the Atlantic explaining that, despite his longstanding and congenial relationship with Kavanaugh, he could not advise Senators to confirm the nominee because his presentation on Thursday amounted to a patently biased "howl of rage." That alone, Wittes said, should disqualify Kavanaugh. Two former Yale classmates of Kavanaugh's who previously vouched for him just wrote to the Senate Judiciary Committee to note they are withdrawing their support because of "the nature of Judge Kavanaughs testimony." pic.twitter.com/b0DEQIbYQF Jennifer Bendery (@jbendery) October 2, 2018 And yes: If you watched Kavanaugh's hearings, and really it seemed like the entire country did, then you may see where the temper tantrum left him looking a little unstable, unhinged, unqualified to assume the level of responsibility that goes along with a seat on the nation's highest court. Unfortunately, though, a number of Kavanaugh's privileged male peers seemed energized by what they saw as a display of righteous rage. In any case, Republicans vow their vote will happen this week. We'll be updating as the Kavanaugh news rolls in. If you're headed to Yankee Stadium tonight to see the Bronx Bombers host the Oakland A's in the American League's wild card game, you should also know it's Nostalgia Train time! You can roll back in time in a vintage subway cara 1917 IRT Lo-V train, to be exactby heading to the uptown 4 train platform of 42nd Street-Grand Central at approximately 7 p.m. The Nostalgia Train will then run non-stop on the Lexington Avenue line, putting riders at Yankee Stadium in about 35 minutes. The NYC Transit Museum says, "The ride up to the Bronx will get fans to the stadium gates with plenty of time before the first pitch at 8:05 pm. All it takes is good timing and a swipe of a MetroCard to get you onboard the vintage subway train." The Nostalgia Train, originally operated by the Interborough Rapid Transit (IRT) system, began service in 1917. The vintage train cars and hundreds of other similar cars served subway customers a few years before the first pitch was thrown at the original Yankee Stadium. With rattan seats, ceiling fans and drop sash windows, the train harkens back to an earlier age of subway travel, and provides a photogenic counterpoint to the new home of the New York Yankees... The Lo-V subway fleet served straphangers for more than five decades before they were retired from service in the 1960s. They currently serve as an illustration of just how far rapid transit car design and technology have advanced over the past 100 years. While the vintage cars lack modern amenities such as air-conditioning, LED route indicators, or automated announcements, they more than make up for it in character and historic significance. Nearly 1,200 of these cars ran in the New York subway, and were among the last cars owned by the IRT before the city took control of the subway system in 1940. Guests can sit on the seats, hold onto the handrails, read the vintage advertisements, and travel through time to the early days of the New York subway system. New York Transit Museum Director Concetta Bencivenga said, "These cars began service more than 100 years ago, and its possible that these very same train cars carried Yankees fans to their first World Series win at the original Yankee Stadium in 1923." For even more transit nostalgia, head over to Busfest 2018 at Brooklyn Bridge Park this weekend, where the Transit Museum is bringing out vintage busses from the last 80 years. Despite assurances from Mayor Bill de Blasio that his e-bike crackdown wouldn't fall on the "little guy," and a City law that explicitly states that businesses who employ delivery cyclists who use illegal e-bikes are "liable" for their fines, the NYPD has continued to target working cyclists, many of whom are immigrants, and not the restaurants that rely on them. As of September 23rd, the NYPD has issued 521 citations to e-bike riders this year, compared with 189 to businesses, according to the department. Each e-bike citation comes with the prospect of a $500 fine, and the bikes are often confiscated. The NYPD has taken 755 e-bikes this year so far, and has issued 1,099 moving violations to e-bike riders. When a delivery cyclist pleads not guilty to a charge of riding an illegal e-bike under New York Administrative Code Section 19-176.2, they get a hearing date at the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings [OATH]. Legal Aid attorney Steven Wasserman, who says he has represented "scores" of these cases this year, estimates that around 90 percent of the summonses get eventually get dismissed. Records provided to Gothamist show that six of his cases last month involving illegal e-bikes were tossed by four different OATH hearing officers for various reasons; one decision notes that the defendant was clearly delivering food for a restaurant, cites the law that requires businesses to be held accountable, and concludes that "the summons should have been issued to the business and not the individual." A different OATH judge reached the same conclusion in another case that Wasserman represented this past August. "I think the hearing officers talk to each other, and I think they're all collectively dismayed by the harshness of these tickets, directed at people that are just living day to day," Wasserman says. "And they're well aware of the profits that are being made by the food delivery services and the restaurants." Wasserman says that the delivery cyclists are "treated as disposable labor." "One guy loses his job, they take his bike away, there's another guy with another illegal bike to take his place. It's really exploitation, and [the hearing officers] don't like it, the truth of the matter is, if you give them something to hang their hat, on they'll throw these tickets out." Wasserman added, "[The NYPD officers] don't even have to hand the citation to the restaurant, they can mail it, this is just regular rules of serving civil process." Peter Donald, the NYPD's assistant commissioner for communication and public information, told Gothamist, "We dont target anyone. We pursue those who break the law. Period." Donald said that many delivery workers don't wear the required reflective vest that bear the name and address of their employers, or refuse to tell NYPD officers where they work, making it more difficult to cite businesses. (Asked if the officers couldn't just look at the plastic bags emblazoned with a restaurant's name and address, Donald said he'd check with the NYPD's Legal Bureau and get back to us.) The NYPD does not separate crashes involving e-bikes from overall cycling collision data, but Donald pointed to gripes about e-bike riders on social media, and community board meetings on the Upper West Side and Upper East Side that are inundated with complaints about dangerous delivery cyclists on e-bikes. "The police department is highly responsive to complaints from the community, whether it's trash on the sidewalk or loud noise from a club, and when people believe something's an issue, we look into it and we try to address it," Donald said. "That's our job." The e-bike crackdown on throttle-based bicycles, which are illegal because they are in theory "capable of propelling the device without human power," continues as the city embraces modes of "pedal-assisted" electric-propelled transportation, which requires the user to pedal the bike. The de Blasio administration has yet to provide any hard evidence that the throttle-based e-bikes have caused more injuries or are more of a public danger than the pedal-assisted e-bikes. Citi Bike recently launched a few dozen pedal-assisted e-bikes in anticipation of the L train shutdown in April, when they will put 1,000 of the bikes into service to quickly move New Yorkers over the Williamsburg Bridge into Manhattan. On Wednesday morning, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams rode a Bird electric scooter, a device that is technically still illegal to ride on City streets. I had an incredible commute this morning on a @BirdRide electric scooter from the Myrtle-Wyckoff station in #Bushwick to Grand Street in #Williamsburg with @TransAlt and @NBk_TA to highlight the importance of alternative sources of transit in preparation for the #LTrainShutdown. pic.twitter.com/fUJ4EqYGiU Eric Adams (@BPEricAdams) October 3, 2018 Councilmembers Raphael Espinal and Ydanis Rodriguez are drafting legislation that would authorize New Yorkers to ride the scooters, which have appeared in Washington D.C., San Francisco, and Los Angeles with varying degrees of legality. Espinal's office said that the bill will legalize both e-scooters and e-bikes, and that one of their goals is to resolve the vulnerability that immigrant delivery cyclists currently face, but that the language of the legislation is still being hammered out. Wasserman says that if restaurants and delivery services like Seamless were paying the e-bike fines, "things would change a lot sooner." "This is a very wealthy city, it would not really cost a lot to replace the fleet of throttle bikes with a fleet of pedal assisted bikes." A carriage horse fell on its side just south of Central Park on Tuesday morning, eliciting dueling statements about carriage horses' welfareand future in New York City. Brittain Blackwell, who was walking by Central Park at the time, told Gothamist that "a horse fell and was on its side. The cart broke and pulled the horse down down with it." "Some people [came] over and tried to get the straps off of it with a few other people who saw... It got back up and is heading back to the stable with its handler now without the cart," Blackwell added, noting that the horse seemed "terrified" and that a box truck driver yelled, "Horses belong in a field!" New Yorkers for Clean, Livable, and Safe Streets (NYCLASS), the group who has fought to ban carriage horses from NYC streets but is supportive of the current proposal to limit them to Central Park, shared video showing some of the aftermath: BREAKING: A carriage horse COLLAPSED on 59th St today after the driver raced around the corner to get to the hack line. Condition of horse not known. We urgently need to help these carriage horses! @NYC_DOT hearing tomorrow at 55 Water St to move the horses out of traffic! pic.twitter.com/DqJr7Y7KGP NYCLASS (@nyclass) October 2, 2018 On Tuesday, "at 9:45 am in Columbus Circle, a carriage horse collapsed and was recorded lying on the street in clear distress," NYCLASS said in a statement. "While it is too early to determine the cause of the collapse, it is likely this incident is the latest example of animal cruelty that has plagued the carriage industry for far too long. At best, the horrific scenes of this horse writhing in pain are another reason why horses do not belong on the streets of Manhattan and should be restricted to Central Park." As it happens, the DOT is holding a hearing today to discuss a proposal that would restrict carriage horses to Central Park. Christina Hansen, spokesperson for Historic Horse-Drawn Carriages of Central Park, LLC, told us that the horse, which was on its second day of work, is "fine," insisting that "this horse did not collapse. He was stopped at the red light on his way to the park this morning, and when the light turned green and he went to go, his feet slipped out from underneath him and he fell down," she said. "As you know from the media reporting on several of these incidents over the years, when a horse slips or trips and falls while in harness, the horse should be unhitched from the carriage so he doesn't get tangled up getting up and hurt himself. The drivers both did exactly what should be done and are experienced professionals. The horse was unhurt and was walked back to his stable. The vet was called as a precaution, and is standard operating procedure." The video was misleading, Hansen argued, because it "cuts off as soon as the horse is up and walking fine." Hansen said this kind of incident, "which happens in all horse driving, including at the World Equestrian Games," would not be avoided if carriage horses are restricted to Central Park. Another carriage horse advocacy group, the Coalition to Ban Horse-Drawn Carriages, actually agrees with Hansen that accidents of this nature will continue to happen even if horses are in Central Park only. The group wants nothing less than a total ban on carriage horses in NYC, and present Elizabeth Forel shared her testimony in advance of this afternoon's DOT hearing to determine whether there should be specific "horse carriage passenger boarding areas" in Central Park (PDF): Its disingenuous to suggest that somehow these new locations are so much better. The new locations do not provide the horses any shade from the sun; the carriages will be traveling in the crowded park as they do now - park filled with pedestrians, bicyclists, skaters, skateboarders, pedicabs and Parks Dept. and Emergency vehicles. There is even less of a chance to enforce the existing carriage horse laws with five locations... NYC is one of the most congested cities in the world and the carriages are a dangerous anachronism. Many cities across the globe have active campaigns to shut down this business. Barcelona did it earlier this year. Montreal is scheduled to shut down at the end of 2019. Guadalajara, Mexico has already added 16 electric carriages to replace the horse carriages. Why cant NYC do the same instead of offering this dishonest proposal? Here are the proposed pickup locations: (NYC DOT) El cafe une a miles de familias peruanas #JuntosPorElCafe ?? El #PlanNacionalDeCafe contribuira a que mas productores accedan a creditos verdes por un cafe sostenible??https://t.co/iriNlA8KR1 @pnud @minagriperu @Promperu @Juntadelcafe @SECO_Peru @UNDPcommodities pic.twitter.com/Odl1i7k9Qp 10:00 | Lima, Oct. 3. According to a supreme resolution published in the official newspaper El Peruano , the minister will attend coordination meetings with businessmen in New York and Boston. 19:24 | Lima, Oct. 2. fulvicauda According to the report, the buff-rumped warbler (Phaeothlypis), which lives in forest ecosystems, was sighted for the first time by rangers in Cerros de Amotape National Park , a preserve in the northern Tumbes region that contains dry tropical woodlands and the foothills of Peru's northern mountain range. run75441 | October 2, 2018 10:57 pm US Auto Sales Fell by 4 Percent in the Third Quarter Major automakers said Tuesday that U.S. sales fell 7 percent in September and 4 percent for the June-through-September quarter, compared with the same periods last year. Weaker numbers for September and the third quarter wiped out a 1.8 percent gain during the first half of the year, and left auto sales on pace with 2017. Some analysts had cautioned that the first-half gains were driven by incentives and low-margin sales to fleet buyers like rental car companies. Auto makers are blaming this on the hurricanes. More likely, it is building to an inventory goal without adjustments to meet demands. Inventory costs money. Michigans Gubernatorial Race: Whitmer Focuses on Fundamentals Like Roads Democrat Gretchen Whitmer said she is focused on fixing Michigans fundamentals like roads, water systems and schools in her run for governor, contending that not spending enough on core services under Republican leadership has still left residents paying more out of pocket for car repairs and other unexpected expenses. She said her polling lead over GOP rival Bill Schuette since last months primary shows the problem-solving message is resonating, but not for one second will she let up less than two months until Election Day. She dismissed as phony political talking points Schuettes warning that she would be the next Jennifer Granholm, a Democrat who was governor during the states protracted economic decline. Its not working. Maybe theyre going to figure that out at some point during this campaign, that people want solutions to problems, Whitmer told The Associated Press in an interview. Michigan Repubs and the AFP are claiming Whitmer is trying to steal another decade from Michiganders by fixing infrastructure through increased revenues. US House Candidate Arrested During Wage Protest in Detroit A U.S. House candidate was arrested Tuesday in Detroit during a protest for higher pay and the right to form unions. Democrat Rashida Tlaib and more than a dozen other demonstrators sat at and banged on a long table that took up a lane of traffic in Detroits Midtown. They were part of a group of several hundred people who marched along the street before gathering outside a McDonalds. Management inside locked the doors as marchers approached. The protest followed one Tuesday morning in Flint where eight people were injured after being struck by a pickup truck as they marched outside another fast-food restaurant. Flint Police Chief Tim Johnson said he doesnt believe the crash was intentional and that the driver seemed pretty shaken up afterward. Both protests were organized by Fight for $15, a national movement seeking to increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour for fast food. I do not believe we would see Kavanaugh out there protesting for a $15/hour wage. He would be to busy trying to explain away what he meant by boofed as a teen. Major GOP Group Pulls Support for 2 Imperiled Congressmen In an ominous sign for the GOPs bid to hold onto the House, the political group affiliated with Speaker Paul Ryan on Friday dropped its support of two incumbent congressmen, signaling how difficult November could be for the Republican majority. The Congressional Leadership Fund canceled $3.1 million in ad spending in the districts of Michigan Rep. Mike Bishop and Colorado Rep. Mike Coffman. Its CLFs first act of triage ahead of the election and comes at the time of the cycle when major spenders cut their losses in races they think are no longer winnable. The Congressional Leadership Fund canceled $3.1 million in ad spending in the districts of Michigan Rep. Mike Bishop and Colorado Rep. Mike Coffman. Its CLFs first act of triage ahead of the election and comes at the time of the cycle when major spenders cut their losses in races they think are no longer winnable. Dropping Bishop is perhaps the more significant sign of the partys prospects. President Donald Trump won the suburban Detroit district by 7 percentage points while narrowly winning Michigan overall. But Republicans in Michigan have struggled this year, and Bishop has been regularly outraised by his challenger Elissa Slotkin, a former CIA agent and defense official. Jesse Hunt, a spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Committee, said the House GOP campaign arm has not canceled its ad reservations in either Bishops or Coffmans district. It is too early to declare a victory. Pour it on . . . State of Michigan Rank amongst the 50 states? Click on the picture to make it bigger. Republicans have a lot to account for in Michigan. They have controlled the legislature and the governorship since 2011. Republicans have controlled the Senate since 1992. Republicans have controlled the House 18 years since 1992. Since 1992, the governorship has been controlled by a Democrat 8 years of 26 years. Yet, everything is former Governor Granholm and Senate leader Whitmers fault for infrastructure being in bad shape. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Armenian President Armen Sarkissian, currently on a working visit to the United States, is closely following the ongoing developments in Armenia, according to his office. The president has had phone talks with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Speaker of Parliament Ara Babloyan to discuss the situation. The president will address the bill on amending the Rules of Procedure Law of parliament upon returning to Yerevan, by initiating consultations with the leadership of the government and parliament. The president is calling for restraint and tolerance for each other, and is certain that the current situation is possible to be resolved and should be resolved within the Constitution and laws, through negotiations and dialogue. The president will depart for France from the United States to attend the wake and funeral of world-renown crooner Charles Aznavour, Sarkissians office said in a statement. Yesterday, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called on his supporters to rally outside the parliament building after Republicans convened an extraordinary session to adopt a bill on amending the rules of procedure of the parliament. The Tsarukyan and ARF factions supported the bill. The controversial bill is an amendment to the Rules of Procedure law of the parliament, whereby in the event of a parliament session being unable to be held because of lack of quorum, or if lawmakers are anyhow prevented from participating, it will be considered interrupted rather than failed, with a possibility of resuming at a later date. The aim of the bill is apparently a limitation of possible circumstances of dissolution of parliament. Thousands rallied outside the parliament building, where MPs were literally besieged. The PM entered the building to hold negotiations. After more than an hour of talks, he exited the building and said Today we showed that early elections are a pan-Armenian demand and the political forces that will oppose this political demand declare war against their own people. My impression is that our colleagues from the HHK, ARF and Tsarukyan factions realized this message. The Prime Minister also said he will resign in order for snap elections to take place as soon as possible. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The Prosperous Armenia Party (BHK) doesnt yet have an official decision on not nominating a candidate for Prime Minister, Member of Parliament/Deputy Speaker of Parliament Michael Melkumyan, representing the Tsarukyan faction, told reporters today. We didnt express an official opinion. Individual politicians can express opinions. We will still discuss, he said. He said that negotiations arent yet completed and that they will make an official statement when all sides will discuss the matter. He said that on October 2 they only held talks with the PM and heard the opinion of the government. Yesterday, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called on his supporters to rally outside the parliament building after Republicans convened an extraordinary session to adopt a bill on amending the rules of procedure of the parliament. The Tsarukyan and ARF factions supported the bill. PM Nikol Pashinyan fired ministers from his Cabinet representing the Tsarukyan and ARF factions. The controversial bill is an amendment to the Rules of Procedure law of the parliament, whereby in the event of a parliament session being unable to be held because of lack of quorum, or if lawmakers are anyhow prevented from participating, it will be considered interrupted rather than failed, with a possibility of resuming at a later date. The aim of the bill is apparently a limitation of possible circumstances of dissolution of parliament. Thousands rallied outside the parliament building, where MPs were literally besieged. The PM entered the building to hold negotiations. After more than an hour of talks, he exited the building and said Today we showed that early elections are a pan-Armenian demand and the political forces that will oppose this political demand declare war against their own people. My impression is that our colleagues from the HHK, ARF and Tsarukyan factions realized this message. The Prime Minister also said he will resign in order for snap elections to take place as soon as possible. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The Russian Defense Ministry has released video footage of the delivery of S-300 systems, interceptor missiles, radars and other hardware to Syria to boost the countrys air-defense capabilities in the wake of the Il-20 incident, RT reports. The night-time footage shows the military hardware being unloaded off the world's largest military transport jet, the Antonov An-124 Ruslan (the Condor), designed to carry a payload of 120 tons. The video shows the gigantic front cargo doors of the aircraft opening up, through which the Russian servicemen rapidly unload an S-300 launcher, radar and control vehicles, as well as the mounting of surface-to-air interceptor missile tubes onto a hauling unit. According to Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu a total of 49 pieces of military equipment were supplied to Damascus and all of it will be integrated with the Russian anti-air capabilities into a unified air defense control system by October 20, while Syrian crews will be trained to operate the new hardware within three months. The delivery of S-300 units to Damascus, which was frozen over concerns by Tel Aviv, was ordered by President Putin in response to the accidental September 17 downing of the Il-20 reconnaissance plane with 15 servicemen on board by Syrian air-defense units during an Israeli raid. The Russian military has accused Israeli colleagues of acting recklessly and unprofessionally, and of deliberately using the defenseless plane as a cover, while Tel Aviv attempted to shift all the blame for the incident on Damascus and Tehran. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Chairman of the Alliance party, Member of Parliament Tigran Urikhanyan has presented clarification on his voting for the amendment of the Rules of Procedure Law. Urikhanyan claims that he hasnt approved voting in favor of the bill in the format which it was put up for voting. Few other lawmakers who are away had also submitted their votes for the bill beforehand, as required by law. He is currently in Russia, and as required by law he had left a written document regarding his vote for the bill. He posted a photo of the bill, claiming it has been altered afterwards. Either the parliament will give an explanation or I will be first to resign upon returning, starting from that moment to demand the dissolution of parliament, for which I have always been in favor, Urikhanyan said. Yesterday, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called on his supporters to rally outside the parliament building after Republicans convened an extraordinary session to adopt a bill on amending the rules of procedure of the parliament. The Tsarukyan and ARF factions supported the bill. PM Nikol Pashinyan fired ministers from his Cabinet representing the Tsarukyan and ARF factions. The controversial bill is an amendment to the Rules of Procedure law of the parliament, whereby in the event of a parliament session being unable to be held because of lack of quorum, or if lawmakers are anyhow prevented from participating, it will be considered interrupted rather than failed, with a possibility of resuming at a later date. The aim of the bill is apparently a limitation of possible circumstances of dissolution of parliament. Thousands rallied outside the parliament building, where MPs were literally besieged. The PM entered the building to hold negotiations. After more than an hour of talks, he exited the building and said Today we showed that early elections are a pan-Armenian demand and the political forces that will oppose this political demand declare war against their own people. My impression is that our colleagues from the HHK, ARF and Tsarukyan factions realized this message. The Prime Minister also said he will resign in order for snap elections to take place as soon as possible. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Members of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) continue intensive consultations about the replacement of Yuri Khachaturov (Armenia) as the Secretary General of the organization, emphasizing that the solution must be acceptable for all, Kazakhstans foreign minister Kayrat Abdrahmanov told RIA Novosti. Consultations over this issue are ongoing, both in the capitals of CSTO member states and at the level of the CSTO Permanent Council. We are sure that according to the charter of our organization, a solution acceptable for all sides will be found, he said. I am convinced that this situation wont bring any negative consequences for CSTOs full functioning, he said. Armenias Yuri Khachaturov is charged with breaching constitutional order during the March 1, 2008 events when he served as deputy minister of defense. The general is released on bail and is resuming his duties, but Armenia has recommended CSTO countries to begin a process of replacing the Secretary General. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) has proposed to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to hold early elections of parliament in May, 2019, in which case they can also discuss their non-nomination of a candidate for prime minister, according to HHK Vice-President Armen Ashotyan. The most common compromise option which was suggested to the prime minister was to postpone the elections until May, manage to reform the electoral code, adopt the Venice commissions recommendations regarding this code, allow other parties to also prepare for the elections, calm down the situation and go for elections. In this case not nominating a prime ministerial candidate couldve been a part of our suggested package, Ashotyan said. Ashotyan says that the PM has listened to their suggestions but no agreement has been made. On October 2, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called on his supporters to rally outside the parliament building after Republicans convened an extraordinary session to adopt a bill on amending the rules of procedure of the parliament. The Tsarukyan and ARF factions supported the bill. The Yelk faction disapproved the bill. PM Nikol Pashinyan fired ministers from his Cabinet representing the Tsarukyan and ARF factions. The controversial bill is an amendment to the Rules of Procedure law of the parliament, whereby in the event of a parliament session being unable to be held because of lack of quorum, or if lawmakers are anyhow prevented from participating, it will be considered interrupted rather than failed, with a possibility of resuming at a later date. The aim of the bill is apparently a limitation of possible circumstances of dissolution of parliament. Thousands rallied outside the parliament building, where MPs were literally besieged. The PM entered the building to hold negotiations. After more than an hour of talks, he exited the building and said Today we showed that early elections are a pan-Armenian demand and the political forces that will oppose this political demand declare war against their own people. My impression is that our colleagues from the HHK, ARF and Tsarukyan factions realized this message. The Prime Minister also said he will resign in order for snap elections to take place as soon as possible. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The Heritage Party has issued a statement insisting on the need for immediate snap elections of parliament. Heritage Party expresses its concern over the situation around the National Assembly of Armenia. Being within the people, we once again insist on the need for holding immediate early elections of parliament, the party said in a statement. On October 2, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called on his supporters to rally outside the parliament building after Republicans convened an extraordinary session to adopt a bill on amending the rules of procedure of the parliament. The Tsarukyan and ARF factions supported the bill. The Yelk faction disapproved the bill. PM Nikol Pashinyan fired ministers from his Cabinet representing the Tsarukyan and ARF factions. The controversial bill is an amendment to the Rules of Procedure law of the parliament, whereby in the event of a parliament session being unable to be held because of lack of quorum, or if lawmakers are anyhow prevented from participating, it will be considered interrupted rather than failed, with a possibility of resuming at a later date. The aim of the bill is apparently a limitation of possible circumstances of dissolution of parliament. Thousands rallied outside the parliament building, where MPs were literally besieged. The PM entered the building to hold negotiations. After more than an hour of talks, he exited the building and said Today we showed that early elections are a pan-Armenian demand and the political forces that will oppose this political demand declare war against their own people. My impression is that our colleagues from the HHK, ARF and Tsarukyan factions realized this message. The Prime Minister also said he will resign in order for snap elections to take place as soon as possible. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Eurasian Economic Commission chairman Tigran Sargsyan and Egypts Ambassador to Russia Ihab Nasr have held talks on the schedule of launching negotiations on creating a free trade and development zone between the Eurasian Economic Union and Egypt, the Eurasian Economic Commission said in a press release. Sargsyan said that the talks were commenced based on the task of member state leaders. Our five countries have expressed readiness to start this negotiations process with you. This is more than important because we have traditionally warm relations with Egypt, and now there is a chance to strengthen it, Sargsyan said. Ambassador Nasr noted that the roots of cooperation between Egypt and EEU members are very deep. He said that the Russian industrial zone, planned to be opened in December 2018 in Egypt, can serve as a promising point for cooperation. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The Investigative Committees Yerevan department has charged a man with murder for killing his own father. As reported earlier, the body of a 61-year-old man was found in an apartment in Davitashen district of Yerevan on September 29. The body had multiple stab wounds. The investigation lead to the mans son, who authorities say is the murderer. The motive wasnt immediately clear. A court issued an arrest warrant for the suspect and he was remanded in custody. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian, who is in the USA on a working visit, met with Vartan Gregorian, President of Carnegie Corporation of New York. As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Presidents Office, the President highly appreciated the scientific, educational and humanitarian programs implemented in Armenia by the Corporation, and particularly its President Vartan Gregorian. The interlocutors discussed the opportunities of implementing projects in Armenia jointly with Carnegie Corporation. Speaking about the activities of the Corporation, Vartan Gregorian said they are ready to support the initiatives and ideas that will foster Armenias progress. President Sarkissian particularly highlighted the educational projects, noting that education and knowledge are the key basis of a developed and progressive country. Armen Sarkissian and Vartan Gregorian also exchanged views on Armenia-Diaspora relations, issues of pan-Armenian importance, development of Armenian-American friendly partnership, as wel as a number of international and regional issues. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The presentation of the translations of French President Emmanuel Macrons book The Revolution took place in Armenia. In his book Macron tells his life story and what inspires him. He presents his visions on the future of France in the changing world. ARMENPRESS reports the book was published by Newmag company ahead of the Francophonie summit and the 1st state visit of Emmanuel Macron to Armenia. Ambassador of France to Armenia Jonathan Lacote said during the presentation that its a rare thing when a politicians book is translated. Such pieces are usually for domestic use, but the Armenian translation speaks much about the relations of the two countries, he said. Macrons book The revolution was published in French in November, 2016 and it became a bestseller in France the same year. Over 2 million copies have been sold. The book has been translated almost into all European languages. The Armenian translation was possible thank to the funding of the Ministry of Culture of Armenia and the support of ACBA Credit Agricole Bank. Its already sold almost in all Yerevan bookshops. Photos by Gevorg Perkuperkyan Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The French Embassy in Armenia believes that Francophonie summit in Yerevan will be properly held, ARMENPRESS reports Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of France to Armenia Jonathan Lacote said, commenting on the recent political developments in Armenia. Any embassy is always very attentive towards the domestic political developments of the country it works in. Naturally, we do not interfere but I keep in touch with many of the participants of these developments. We believe that Armenia will host Francophonie summit at a proper level. Next week the world will meet with Yerevan. Its a historical event for Armenia and a unique opportunity to establish ties with the rest of the Francophone countries and we believe these events will take place in the best way, the French Ambassador said. Yerevan is hosting the XVII International Organisation of La Francophonie summit October 11-12. Armenia is a member of the organization since 2008. The International Organisation of La Francophonie represents one of the biggest linguistic zones in the world. Its members share more than just a common language. They also share the humanist values promoted by the French language. The French language and its humanist values represent the two cornerstones on which the International Organisation of La Francophonie is based. The International Organisation of La Francophonie was created in 1970. Its mission is to embody the active solidarity between its 84 member states and governments (58 members and 26 observers), which together represent over one-third of the United Nations member states and account for a population of over 900 million people, including 274 million French speakers. IOF organizes political activities and actions of multilateral cooperation that benefit French-speaking populations. Its actions respect cultural and linguistic diversity and serve to promote the French language, peace and sustainable development. IOF has concluded 33 cooperation agreements with international and regional organisations and has established permanent dialogue between the major international linguistic zones (the English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Arab-speaking zones). The IOF has its head office in Paris as well as four permanent representations in Addis Ababa (at the African Union and at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa), in Brussels (at the European Union), in New York and in Geneva (at the UN). It has three regional offices (West Africa ; Central Africa and Indian Ocean ; Asia-Pacific) located respectively in Lome (Togo), Libreville (Gabon) and Hanoi (Vietnam) and two regional antennas in Bucharest (Romania) and in Port-au-Prince (Haiti). Alongside the IOF, the Parliamentary Assembly of La Francophonie and the four direct operators are responsible for implementing the programs decided at the Summits. The four direct operators are : the Academic Agency of La Francophonie, TV5Monde, the International Association of Francophone Mayors and The Senghor University of Alexandria. 58 Member States and Governments : Albania, Principality of Andorra, Armenia, Kingdom of Belgium, French Community of Belgium, Benin, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Canada-New-Brunswick, Canada-Quebec, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo, , Cyprus, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Dominica, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, France, Gabon, Ghana, Greece, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Ivory Coast, Laos, Lebanon, Luxembourg, former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Mauritius, Mauritania, Moldova, Monaco, Niger, New-Caledonia, Qatar, Romania, Rwanda, Saint Lucia, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Switzerland, Togo, Tunisia, Vanuatu, Vietnam. 26 Observers : Argentina, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada-Ontario, South Korea, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Kosovo, Latvia, Lithuania, Mexico, Montenegro, Mozambique, Poland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Thailand, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan The Turkmen army has put a Saudi-made light armored vehicle 4x4 into service: the Al Shibl. Al Shibl light armored vehicle, made in Saudi Arabia (Picture source: Army Recognition) Pictures and videos recently released showed that, at a recent military parade, Turkmenistan revealed its purchase of Al Shibl armored vehicles from Saudi Arabia. Eight vehicles were seen in the parade. The total number of units actually bought from Saudi Arabia is unknown. Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov traveled to Saudi Arabia in 2016 and met with King Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud to discuss a range of bilateral issues, including defense cooperation. Built on a commercial chassis, the Al Shibl has a steel body offering a level 1 of the STANAG 4569 standard. With its combat weight of 4,600 kg (payload: 1 tonne), it is reported to be able to travel up to 120 km/h on road conditions thanks to its 228 hp engine (torque: 367 nM). The power/weight ratio is 49 hp/tonne. The vehicle has a crew of two, with room for seven passengers. The vehicles in Turkmen service have manned turrets with machine guns on the roof. Different variants are available, fitted with the appropriate equipment and/or armament. Turkmenistan has stepped up its procurement of armored vehicles in recent years, buying hardware from the Gulf states as well as from Turkey. Australia's housing downturn became faster and more widespread last month, according to CoreLogic's Home Value Index for September. The decline was once again led by steep declines in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, capitals where prices have fallen the fastest so far in 2018. National housing values have now fallen every month over the last year, losing 2.7% in the process. The declines have been larger than the national average in the capitals, especially in Sydney and to a lesser degree Melbourne. Australia's housing downturn became faster and more widespread in September, according to CoreLogic's latest Home Value Index. Also read: Is Australia's economic strength a thing of the past? Across the country, the median home price fell 0.5% in average weighted terms, led once again by steep declines in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, those capitals where prices have fallen the fastest so far in 2018. Also read: Australias most expensive homes are seeing prices fall the fastest The national decline was double the 0.3% fall in August. "Dwelling values tracked lower across five of the eight capital cities in September while five of the seven rest of state regions recorded a fall in values over the month," said Tim Lawless, Head of Research at CoreLogic, indicating that the declines last month were broad-based. Home prices nationally fell by 0.6% during the month, once again outpacing a decline in unit values which fell by a smaller 0.1%. Over the past three months, home prices across the country fell by 1.4% in weighted terms, led once again by houses which slid by 1.5%. Units, in comparison, declined by a smaller 0.9% during this period. With the pace of price declines accelerating last month, it left Australia's median home price down 2.7% over the year. House prices fell by 3.1% over the year in weighted terms, again faster than units which declined by a smaller 1.3%. Also read: Are our super funds stock market crash proof? Story continues However, while prices have now fallen for 12 consecutive months -- longer than the average housing market downturn in Australia seen in the past -- Lawless says the pace of declines are still modest at this point. "[This is] hardly a crash, and a slower rate of decline relative to the previous housing market downturn between June 2010 to February 2012 when national dwelling values fell by 3.0% over the first twelve months, declining 6.5% from peak to trough," he said. "While the housing market downturn is well entrenched across Darwin and Perth where dwelling values remain 22.1% and 13.2% lower relative to their 2014 peak, Sydney and Melbourne are now the primary drag on the national housing market performance." According to Corelogic, Sydney and Melbourne prices fell 0.6% and 0.9% in September, leaving values in both cities down 6.1% and 3.4% respectively from 12 months earlier. "Not only are these amongst the largest annual falls across the capital cities, but considering Sydney and Melbourne comprise approximately 60% of the national value of housing, the weak conditions in these cities have a substantial drag down effect on the overall national housing market performance," Lawless said. Indicating the top end of these markets are continuing to lead price declines, house prices in Sydney and Melbourne have fallen 7.6% and 4.5% respectively over the past year, substantially faster than the 2.6% decline and 0.3% gain in unit values in those respective markets over the same period. Also read: 6 tips that rocketed me to millionaire status "Dwelling values across Sydney's most expensive quarter of the market are down 8.4% over the past 12 months while the least expensive quarter of the market is down only 3.3%," Lawless said. "The divergence in performance across the broad valuation cohorts is even more significant in Melbourne where the highest value quartile has seen values reduce 6.7% over the past 12 months while the lowest value quartile has actually recorded a 4.1% annual gain in values." Lawless said the divergence between expensive and more affordable segments of the Sydney and Melbourne markets over the past year reflect the impact of stamp duty discounts for first home buyers introduced by the New South Wales and Victoria state governments last year, helping to improve affordability for those looking to enter the market, as well as ongoing affordability constraints at the top-end of the market, partially impacted by lenders reducing their exposure to high loan-to-income borrowers during this period. "If lenders have reduced their appetite for high debt to income ratio lending, this implies housing demand in expensive cities like Sydney and Melbourne -- where dwelling prices remain more than eight times higher than gross household incomes -- is likely to be skewed towards the middle to lower end of the market," he said. While less-impacted by tighter lending standards given the gulf between prices and household incomes is less extreme than in Sydney and Melbourne, Lawless said there were further signs that conditions in Australia's smaller capital city and regional markets also softened in September. "Although dwelling values are still rising on an annual basis in Brisbane, Adelaide, Hobart and Canberra, the rate of capital gain has slowed noticeably in these regions," he said. "One year ago, the annual gain in Brisbane was tracking at 2.9% and has since slowed to just 0.8% over the past 12 months. "Adelaide values were rising at the annual rate of 5.0% a year ago, slowing to 0.7%, while the annual growth rate has slowed from 14.3% in Hobart to 9.3% and Canberra has seen annual gains slide from 7.8% to 2.0%." Lawless said the the only capitals to see an improvement in the annual change in housing values over the past year were Perth and Darwin where prices fell at a slower pace than 12 months earlier. Put another way, prices growth has either decelerated or turned outright negative across all Australian capital city markets over the past year. The same themes were also evident in regional areas, one segment of Australia's broader housing market that had fared better than the capitals earlier in the year. "Regional markets, where housing values have generally been more resilient to falls than in the capital cities, are now showing more challenging conditions," Lawless said. According to the latest data, regional prices fell 0.2% last month in weighted terms, and 0.9% over the past quarter, trimming the gain over the past 12 months to 1.2%. Given recent trends, annual price growth in regional areas are likely to turn negative too in the months ahead. Looking ahead, Lawless says prices will continue to face headwinds from tighter lending standards, a slight moderation in net overseas migration, a potential change in the tax treatment of housing and record or near-record residential construction activity in Victoria and NSW. However, while a potent mix that suggests prices will continue to decline for some time yet, Lawless says that strengthening labour market conditions and still-low borrowing costs are positives that may help to cushion price declines as long as current trends are maintained. The trial of 189 suspected Islamist militants began in Mozambique on Wednesday, with the accused allegedly involved in attacks against police and civilians in the northern province of Cabo Delgado. The trial opened in a tent serving as an improvised courthouse inside a jail in Pemba, the provincial capital, with Mozambicans, Tanzanians, Congolese, Somalis and Burundians among the defendants, of whom 42 are women. Over the last year, more than 50 people have been killed in gun, grenade and knife assaults in the growing jihadist insurgency, with the militants reportedly seeking to impose Sharia law in the Muslim-majority province. On the first day of the trial, prosecutors read indictments against the accused. They are charged with crimes including homicide, use of prohibited weapons, crimes against state security and public disorder. According to the chargesheet, in October last year the defendants carried out a coordinated attack against police near the town of Mocimboa da Praia, and later on the district police command. Two police officers were killed and five others seriously injured. The suspects are also accused of attacking police positions in November and December. A court spokesman told AFP that the case had been adjourned until next week, with the trail set to last until the start of next year. Last week, President Filipe Nyusi told a rally in Cabo Delgado that he directed the police not to kill the insurgents as they were youths exploited by foreign groups determined to fuel instability in Mozambique. The trial is the first since the attacks began a year ago. As the insurgency has spread through the province, several hundred Muslims have been arrested and several mosques forced to close. In the latest major violence, 12 villagers were killed and 14 wounded two weeks ago. An anti-terrorism law was passed in April allowing for heavier sentences. Locals and authorities call the assailants Al-Shabaab, although the group has no known link to the Somali Islamists of that name, nor has it issued any claim of responsibility or demands. The attacks have shaken plans to exploit vast natural gas discovered off the shores of Cabo Delgado, which borders on Tanzania to the north. The trial of 189 suspected Islamic militants opened in a tent serving as an improvised courthouse inside a jail in Pemba, the provincial capital of Cabo Delgado, where the accused were allegedly involved in attacks Police in Brazil have killed nine escaped inmates and are hunting 19 others after a jailbreak in the central north of the country during which prisoners took a teacher and guards hostage, authorities said. A total of 28 convicts fled the Barra de Grota prison in the town of Araguaina late Tuesday, running away to nearby woodland, regional security officials said in a statement Wednesday. They had grabbed the female teacher and three guards while attending a prison class and used the guards' weapons to force their way out. Two of the guards were released as military and local police pursued the inmates, but the 43-year-old teacher and a 27-year-old male guard remained hostage. The nine prisoners "died after clashing with police in a wood near the prison," the statement said, without giving details. The Barra de Grota penitentiary was holding 493 prisoners before the jailbreak, slightly more than the 480 it was designed for. Brazil has the third-biggest prison population in the world, after the United States and China. Overcrowding is a problem, and escapes, riots and score-settling are common. Nine escaped inmates "died after clashing with police in a wood" near the Barra de Grota pirson in the Brazilian town of Araguaina Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Wednesday his government will consider, after the recreational use of cannabis is legalized on October 17, pardoning persons convicted in the past of simple pot possession. Pressed by reporters on this, Trudeau said: "Well, as we have said, we'll look at that once the law has been changed. So from October 17, we will start looking at the best way to do it." His office said no details of what would be considered -- whether a blanket amnesty or pardons on a case by case basis -- were yet available. Earlier, Minister Bill Blair, who is leading the government's cannabis legalization initiative, reminded that "until the law (prohibiting cannabis) is repealed and replaced with the new regulatory regime, it remains in effect." Trudeau himself admitted in 2013 to having smoked pot five or six times in his life, including at a dinner party with friends after being elected to parliament. He has also said that his late brother Michel was facing marijuana possession charges for a "tiny amount" of pot before his death in an avalanche in 1998, and that this influenced his decision to propose legalizing cannabis. On Tuesday, the prime minister posted an old photo of the two brothers on Twitter to mark what would have been Michel's 43rd birthday, writing: "I love you little brother." (FILES) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, seen in a file photo from last month, said Wednesday his government will consider, after the recreational use of cannabis is legalized on October 17, pardoning persons convicted of simple pot possession Santiago Archbishop Ricardo Ezzati on Wednesday went before a prosecutor investigating a sex abuse scandal that has roiled the Catholic Church but declined to answer questions about accusations he was involved in a cover-up. The highest-ranking member of the church in Chile, Ezzati entered the prosecutor's offices in the southern town of Rancagua under heavy police guard and surrounded by media. A solitary protester brandished a sign that read: "Depraved Roman Church." After an hour being interviewed by Emilio Arias -- the prosecutor investigating decades of sexual abuse of minors by Chilean priests -- 76-year-old Ezzati left the courthouse saying: "We are all going to collaborate with everything." - No answers - Hugo Rivera, his lawyer, said the cardinal had used his right not to answer questions about accusations he covered up the sexual abuse of minors, in particular crimes committed by a top diocesan aide. "For now the cardinal has not spoken until we speak with the public prosecutor's office about the definitive dismissal" of the charges, the lawyer said. He insisted the cardinal "is innocent". Arias began investigating scores of abuse cases in July after outrage over the church's own probe into decades of abuse by priests, crimes for which it often failed to take any action or handed down lenient punishments. Pope Francis, who has removed several Chilean bishops over the scandal, admitted there was a "culture of abuse" within the Chilean church after sending investigators from the Vatican. The pontiff said the church had failed "to listen and react" to the allegations, and vowed to "restore justice." Arias' office said in August that it was investigating 119 cases of abuse against Chile's clergy going back to 1960. "We are going to prosecute anyone who has committed crimes," Arias told reporters after questioning Ezzati. "There is no witch hunt," he said. "If there is a crime, we will prosecute....we will accuse and go to trial," he said. Ezzati has denied allegations that he covered up cases of abuse, including those of a top aide, Oscar Munoz. Munoz, 56, is under house arrest while a probe continues into allegations he raped at least seven children. "The cowardly Ezzati goes to testify as an accused and decides not to speak so as not to incriminate himself," said Juan Carlos Cruz, one of the victims of the most notorious abuser, ex-priest Fernando Karadima. Karadima, once a revered Chilean cleric, was formally expelled from the Church by Pope Francis last Friday. The Cardinal Archbishop of Santiago, Ricardo Ezzati, arrives for questioning at the offices of the prosecutor investigating Chile's vast sex abuse scandal, in Rancagua, Chile on October 3, 2018. Chilean public prosecutor Emiliano Arias speaks to the press after questioning Santiago Archbishop Ricardo Ezzati over allegations he covered-up the sexual abuse of minors in Rancagua, Chile on October 3, 2018. A hero pizza delivery driver helped save a woman who was allegedly held hostage by her abusive ex-partner who threatened to shoot them both. Dean Hoffmann, 55, faces various domestic abuse charges after he entered his ex-girlfriends home uninvited about 1pm last Thursday and refused to leave, according to police. The 57-year-old victim told Hoffmann to leave her home in Wisconsin, US, and when he refused she grabbed her phone to call police, but Hoffmann allegedly snatched it from her hands. Dominos Pizza delivery driver Joey Grundl helped save a woman who was allegedly held hostage. Source: WKTR WTKR TV reports he allegedly pushed the woman, who fell backwards onto stairs, then Hoffmann pulled her hair, ripped her shirt and tried to drag her up the stairs. The woman told investigators she hit Hoffmann in the groin in attempt to get away, but he then punched her in the face, giving her a black eye and bloody nose. Prosecutors say Hoffmann then hog-tied the womans hands and feet with a vacuum cleaner power cord, then shoved a towel in her mouth to keep her quiet, which caused her breathing trouble. She told investigators he threatened to shoot them both dead, and she feared for her life. Hoffmann untied her about 30 minutes later but would not let her leave her own house, she said. A decision to order a pizza was vital in the womans rescue. Dean Hoffmann, 55, faces various domestic abuse charges after he entered his ex-girlfriends home. Source: Sheboygan County Sheriffs Office When Dominos Pizza driver Joey Grundl dropped off a delivery to the home in Sheboygan County, he noticed the distressed woman inside trying to get his attention and he called 911. Its kind of scary, he told WTKR TV news. Gave him his pizza, and noticed behind him was his girlfriend. She pointed to a black eye that was quite visible. She mouthed the words help me. He told the operator: I had a delivery. It was a middle-aged couple. The woman clearly had a black eye. She pointed to it, and I swear she mouthed help me.' Police arrested Hoffmann, who now faces charges of kidnapping, false imprisonment, strangulation and suffocation, felony intimidation of a victim and burglary of a building. A handwritten letter from Albert Einstein about his thoughts on God, religion and his search for meaning is to go on sale in New York, valued at up to $1.5 million, Christie's said Wednesday. Written a year before the legendary physicist died in 1955, his name synonymous with genius, Einstein writes in German from Princeton, New Jersey to German philosopher Eric Gutkind. "The word God is for me nothing but the expression and product of human weaknesses, the Bible a collection of venerable but still rather primitive legends," writes the physicist, best known for his theory of relativity. "No interpretation, no matter how subtle, can (for me) change anything about this." The one-and-a-half-page letter will go on sale on December 4, estimated by Christie's to fetch between $1 million and $1.5 million. The letter was previously offered at auction in 2008, bought by a private collector for $404,000, Christie's said. "It is one of the definitive statements in the religion vs science debate," says Peter Klarnet, senior specialist in books and manuscripts at the auction house. The son of secular Ashkenazi Jews and forced to flee Germany after Adolf Hitler took power, Einstein did not exclude Judaism from his critique. "For me the unadulterated Jewish religion is, like all other religions, an incarnation of primitive superstition," he writes to Gutkind. "And the Jewish people to whom I gladly belong, and in whose mentality I feel profoundly anchored, still for me does not have any different kind of dignity from all other peoples. "As far as my experience goes, they are in fact no better than other human groups, even if they are protected from the worst excesses by a lack of power. Otherwise I cannot perceive anything 'chosen' about them." Last October, a note that Einstein had given a courier in Tokyo briefly describing his theory on happy living sold at auction in Jerusalem for $1.56 million, Winner's auction house said. "While Einstein letters and manuscripts appear with some frequency at auction, those of great importance and significance do not," said Klarnet. "In the broadest sense, it is similar to Einstein's 1939 letter to (US president) F.D.R. warning of German efforts to build the bomb that we sold for $2 million in 2002," he added. The letter, already been shown in Shanghai, goes on public view in New York from November 30 to December 3, Christie's said. (FILES) In this file photo taken on February 14, 1950 German-born Swiss-US physicist Albert Einstein, author of the theory of relativity, declares his opposition to the "H" bomb and to the arms race between the USA and the USSR in a conference in Princeton during a TV broadcast which created a considerable stir in the United States and all over the Western World. A handwritten letter from Albert Einstein about his thoughts on God, religion and his search for meaning is to go on sale in New York, valued at up to $1.5 million, Christie's said October 3, 2018. Written a year before the legendary physicist died in 1955, his name synonymous with genius, Einstein writes in German from Princeton, New Jersey to German philosopher Eric Gutkind."The word God is for me nothing but the expression and product of human weaknesses, the Bible a collection of venerable but still rather primitive legends," writes the physicist, best known for his theory of relativity. Britain's looming exit from the EU risks hindering essential Europe-wide cooperation to thwart terrorist attacks, experts warn, despite the determination of security agents on both sides of the Channel to keep working together. The main problem is London's eventual loss of unlimited real-time access to pan-European databases in case Britain crashes out of the bloc without a police cooperation deal in place. Even if such a "hard Brexit" is avoided, the country's National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) announced last month that it is setting up an operations centre to train agents for new sharing protocols after the UK leaves in March 2019. But those tools are expected to fall far short of the European arrest warrant, the Schengen Information System -- which British police consulted 539 million times last year -- or the Europol network, said NPCC head Sara Thornton. "The fallbacks we're going to have to use will be slower, will be more bureaucratic and it would make it much harder for us to protect UK citizens and EU citizens," she said. For Malcolm Chalmers, a security expert and deputy director of the Royal United Services Institute, "if the UK was no longer able to take part in the EU databases that are developing rapidly, if no new means of involvement were to be found, then there would be a significant downside, because it would be much harder to replicate that level of data sharing. "It doesn't mean that there would be no cooperation without UK membership, but it would be slower, more ponderous," he told AFP. "The real issue is speed and simplicity: the more complex the processes are, the more time it takes, the less the police can do," he added. - 'Stovepipes' - British agents have built up solid relations with their counterparts across Europe, having worked side-by-side on several long cases as jihadist attacks have increased in Europe. Yet their determination to coordinate closely after Brexit will nonetheless run into bureaucratic challenges, analysts say. "Even in a ideal world where the UK and the EU maintained near-perfect information sharing, the counter-terrorism and law enforcement challenges would remain immense," according to a report from the Soufan security think-tank in the US last month. "The threat level will continue to remain elevated for years to come, and the possibility of a no-deal Brexit will simply make that threat more difficult to counter by creating unnecessary stovepipes that will hamper the sharing of information and intelligence across relevant agencies," it wrote. Given the high stakes, however, and the disastrous potential consequences in case of intelligence-sharing failures, most agents remain optimistic that frictions will be kept to a minimum. Nobody wants to be held responsible for allowing a terrorist attack simply because following the new procedures kept vital intelligence from crossing the Channel in time. "Brexit or no Brexit, agencies will continue to cooperate with London as they have done for the past 50 years," said Alain Chouet, a former head of France's DGSE foreign intelligence agency. "With the English, things work pretty well, as long as we don't mess directly in their affairs," Chouet added. "One of our agencies' missions is to make up for international political hazards. We're paid for that, we do it, and the English do the same," he said. "For our agencies, cooperation has always gone well. And it will continue to do so." Brexit risks hindering essential Europe-wide cooperation to thwart terrorist attacks, experts warn, despite the determination of security agents on both sides of the Channel to keep working together Despite British agents building solid relations with European counterparts, having worked side-by-side on jihadist attacks, their determination to coordinate closely after Brexit will still run into bureaucratic challenges, analysts say London's eventual loss of unlimited real-time access to pan-European databases in case Britain crashes out of the EU without a police cooperation deal in place is the main problem Nobody wants to be held responsible for allowing a terrorist attack simply because following the new post-Brexit procedures kept vital intelligence from crossing the Channel in time "Talk of sanctions on Iran reemerged, and my essential medicine was no longer available," said Masoud Mir who suffers from thalassaemia, a genetic blood disease common in Iran. Mir, 36, is one of many patients in the Islamic Republic who not only have to deal with their disability, but also the consequences of trade sanctions reimposed in August by the US, as well as a battered economy with a free-falling currency, a foreign drug shortage and price hikes. His essential medicine, a Swiss-made anti-iron overload drug, is now rationed by the government and can only be freely purchased at exorbitant prices on the black market. The same is true for other crucial drugs for treating multiple sclerosis, cancer and cardiac problems and even simple anaesthetics required for surgery. On Wednesday, the UN's top court stepped in, and ruled in favour of Iran which had called for the US sanctions to be suspended. Judges at the International Court of Justice in The Hague unanimously ruled Washington should remove barriers to "the free exportation to Iran of medicines and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities" as well as airplane parts. Official Iranian statements acknowledge the shortage of medicines and say imports of certain drugs are no longer subsidised. "We are currently short of 80 pharmaceutical items," Mohammad-Naeem Aminifard, a member of parliament's health commission, told semi-official news agency ISNA. "The government and insurers have removed the support for foreign drugs that have a domestic equivalent which intensifies the pressure on patients." Iran produces 96 percent of the drugs it uses, according to the Syndicate of Iranian Pharmaceutical Industries, but imports more than half the raw materials to make them. The double-whammy of banking sanctions and a collapse in the value of its currency make total self-sufficiency difficult if not outright impossible. - Battered economy hits patients - For others with family health concerns, sanctions are adding to their burden. Ali, an electrical technician in his mid-30s, was fired from one job for spending too much time on hospital visits for his son. His next company went bankrupt, and his current employer, a Dutch-Iranian firm, is stalled because they cannot import equipment and has stopped paying staff. He spoke to AFP outside the busy 13 Aban pharmacy in central Tehran, where he had been hoping to buy a medicine for fungal infections caused by his son's cancer treatment. "They're not giving me any because of insurance problems," he said. "They said even if they could it's less than I need due to rationing. My son could die if his medicine is delayed for even a day." Managers at the pharmacy, a state-owned outlet focusing on rarer diseases, declined to comment. But others in central Tehran said there was "a notable shortage" in some anticoagulants, beta-blockers or drugs to treat blood pressure problems. "The local versions are cheaper, but not as effective," one pharmacist told AFP. "Things will get worse if sanctions continue." Many patients cannot afford black market prices and risk side effects from locally-made equivalents, the head of Iran?s thalassaemia society, Meysam Ramezani, told the conservative Tasnim news agency recently. Seven thalassaemia patients died in March alone, he said, blaming "either a lack of injections or low-quality drugs." - Who's to blame? - Iranians on social media are blaming many people: the US for its crippling sanctions, government economic mismanagement, and pharma firms for skyrocketing prices. Surgeon Hamidreza Vafayi said the refusal of international banks to work with Iran was the biggest challenge. The United States pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal and reimposed sanctions targeting key parts of Iran's economy including international banking ties and transactions in US dollars. "As far as I know, there is no official statement on sanctioning medicine trade with Iran," Vafayi told AFP. "Yet when we cannot have banking ties (with the world) we are in fact under an undeclared medicine sanction regime. The truth is that no company would sell us drugs now." Thalassaemia patient Masoud Mir also angrily recalled that when sanctions were imposed between 2010 and 2016, pharmaceutical firms exploited the situation by hoarding goods and manipulating prices. The same thing is happening today, he claimed. Medicine importers get subsidised currency rates from the government, but their names are not publicly available, making it difficult to hold them to account if drugs do not appear in state-owned pharmacies. "In 2011, they kept saying that there was none (of his drug) in the market because of sanctions. But I could just walk out of the pharmacy and buy some from a street dealer at crazy prices," he said. "Not everyone can pay that, so they may face a slow death." An Iranian employee at a drugstore at the Nikan hospital in Tehran on September 11, 2018, before the International Court of Justice ruled on October 3 that the US should suspend sanctions to allow 'the free exportation to Iran of medicines' Iranians shop at a drugstore at the Nikan hospital in Tehran on September 11, 2018 before the International Court of Justice ruled on October 3 that the US should suspend its sanctions and allow the free exports of medicines An Iranian man shops at a drugstore at the Nikan hospital in Tehran on September 11, 2018 before the International Court of Justice ruled on Wednesday October 3 that the US should suspend sanctions and allow free exports of medicines Mohsen Mohebi, representative of Iran, is pictured during the opening of the case between Iran and the United States at the International Court of Justice in the Hague, August 27, 2018 as Iran called for the suspension of US crippling sanctions French police arrested Wednesday a notorious gangster who had been on the run for three months after an audacious Hollywood-style helicopter jailbreak. Dozens of masked police swarmed a public housing estate in the Oise region north of Paris in the early hours, nabbing 46-year-old Redoine Faid along with four other people in a raid on an apartment. Faid's brother Rachid and two of the gangster's nephews were arrested along with the apartment's landlady, according to police sources. Two guns were found in the flat, while two other alleged accomplices were arrested during a simultaneous raid in the Paris region, sources said. At around 3am, "I heard a racket," said Alliou Diallo, who lives on the ground floor of the small building, three floors below the apartment where Faid was holed up. "I saw around a hundred police wearing masks," he said, adding of Faid: "I never thought he could be here." Prime Minister Edouard Philippe hailed the "meticulous" police work that led to the arrests, saying in a tweet that they had pulled off the high-stakes operation "without any clashes". - Career criminal - But another local resident, Farah Ziane, was less happy -- the police initially stormed her grandfather's apartment by mistake. "They broke down my 86-year-old grandad's door, it's shameful," she said, as the elderly man stood next to her, looking completely lost. Upturned boxes lay in the corridor, while the bolt to the door had been smashed. A massive manhunt was launched after Faid's daring July 1 escape, in which two heavily armed accomplices used smoke bombs and angle grinders to break through prison doors and whisk him to a waiting helicopter. Faid, a career criminal with multiple convictions for armed robbery, was sprung from the jail in Reau, 50 kilometres (30 miles) southeast of Paris. Around 100 elite police were deployed to track down Faid, who has cited movie baddies such as Tony Montana in "Scarface" as an inspiration and said he discovered his "calling" at the age of 12. Scattered furniture and clothes could be seen on the floor of the apartment on Wednesday morning, along with police forensic gloves. Faid, who previously escaped from prison in 2013 before being captured six weeks later, had been serving a 25-year term over a botched 2010 heist in which a policewoman was killed, though he claims her death was accidental. - Smoke bombs - The spectacular jailbreak saw two men posing as flight-school students, who had already taken an introductory flight, force a helicopter instructor at gunpoint to fly them to the jail. The terrified pilot landed in the courtyard -- the only part of the prison not fitted with anti-helicopter nets. A pair of black-clad men armed with assault rifles then alighted and set off smoke bombs before breaking into the visiting room, where Faid was meeting with his brother who was later taken into custody. The wardens, who were unarmed, fled and raised the alarm. But within 10 minutes Faid was gone, cheered on by his fellow inmates. The helicopter was found shortly afterwards in a suburb northeast of Paris, along with the pilot, who had been beaten and was taken to hospital in a state of shock. Several days after his escape investigators found a stash of guns, masks and a cement cutter in the Oise region where Faid grew up, which they believed belonged to his gang. Faid narrowly avoided capture on July 24 and had to abandon a car containing explosives after he was identified as one of two people who sped away when police tried to carry out a security check on their car north of Paris. In early September police carried out searches targeting the robber's relatives, but made no arrests. The escape, which brings to at least five the number of jailbreaks in France in the past three decades involving helicopters, prompted a heated debate about whether the country's prisons are secure enough. Netting has since been fitted over the courtyard where Faid's helicopter landed to whisk him away. Faid had been serving a 25-year term over a botched 2010 heist in which a policewoman was killed Faid's brother and two of his nephews were also arrested along with the apartment's landlady Dozens of masked police swarmed the public housing estate in the Oise region north of Paris in the early hours Chronology of French armed robber Redoine Faid since his escape by helicopter in a daring prison break on July 2. The helicopter used in the escape was found shortly afterwards in a suburb northeast of Paris Faid previously escaped from the Lille-Sequedin prison in 2013 Veteran Iraqi politician and now prime minister designate Adel Abdel Mahdi Wednesday began the tough task of forming the next government, seeking to overcome sharp differences and unite fractious political parties. In a surprise move late Tuesday, new President Barham Saleh handed Abdel Mahdi -- seen as an independent -- the difficult responsibility only hours after being elected. It comes as several different blocs in the Iraqi parliament are jostling for power following the May elections -- in-fighting which had so far stymied the formation of a new government. The largest bloc traditionally appoints the prime minister and presides over the formation of the next government. But the exact contours of a new governing coalition are yet to be drawn. Outgoing prime minister Haider al-Abadi threw in the towel last month after deadly unrest in the southern city of Basra cost his fragile alliance the support of populist Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr. Sadr's list won the largest share of seats in the May polls. And after dumping Abadi, it swung behind the pro-Iran bloc led by Hadi al-Ameri's Conquest Alliance -- a coalition of anti-jihadist veterans close to Tehran. A spokesman for Conquest Alliance, Ahmad al-Assadi, told reporters late Tuesday that "the largest coalition resolved the issue by naming the prime minister" hinting his bloc had supported Abdel Mahdi's nomination, but without offering up any concrete evidence. - Power-sharing system - Iraq has a proportional system designed to prevent a slide back into dictatorship following the 2003 ouster of late dictator Saddam Hussein. The largely ceremonial role of president, now taken by the 58-year-old Saleh, has been reserved for the Kurds since Iraq's first multi-party elections in 2005. Under the power-sharing deal, the post of prime minister is held by a Shiite, while the speaker of parliament is Sunni Arab -- a post filled last month by Mohammed al-Halbusi. The 76-year-old Abdel Mahdi, a former Iraqi vice president, has proven political credentials and is seen in Iraqi circles as an independent. In a country long a political battleground between the United States and Iran as they fight for influence, he is regarded as a rare figure of consensus. An economist by training, he was once a senior member of a party close to Iran. But he has also won the backing of US and European leaders. In 2014, Abdel Mahdi took up the post of oil minister under Abadi before resigning two years later. Now he has just 30 days to navigate tangled Iraqi politics and form a government. If he fails, then another candidate will have to be chosen to pick up the baton. - Kurdish ties - A Shiite and native of Baghdad, Abdel Mahdi is nonetheless credited with having good relations with a number of Kurdish leaders. This could be crucial, coming a year after a disastrous referendum in which Iraqi Kurdistan voted overwhelmingly for independence. The vote triggered a punishing backlash from Baghdad, which imposed economic penalties and sent federal troops to push Kurdish forces out of oil fields vital for the region's economy. Under a tacit accord between the region's two main factions, the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, the PUK hold the federal presidency and the KDP the post of Iraqi Kurdistan president. But the Iraqi Kurdish presidency has been left vacant since KDP leader Massud Barzani's mandate ended following the September 2017 referendum that he championed. In a bitter dispute for power, Barzani had backed for president Fuad Hussein, his 72-year-old former chief of staff and veteran of the opposition to Saddam. But in a blow to Barzani, the post went to Saleh, a moderate who has served both as Iraqi deputy premier and Kurdish prime minister. He was part of an interim authority put in place by the United States following the 2003 invasion that ousted Saddam. He later became deputy prime minister under Nuri al-Maliki then returned to the Kurdish regional capital Arbil in 2009 to become head of the Kurdistan government. Meanwhile, voters in the autonomous region were awaiting the results of Sunday's polls for the Kurdish parliament. They were due to be announced late Wednesday, but the electoral commission said it must first examine 400 complaints before announcing the results. Veteran Iraqi politician Adel Abdel Mahdi, regarded as an independent in his country's fractious infighting, has been given the tough task of forming the next government as prime minister-designate Deadly protests in Iraq's main southern city of Basra last month cost outgoing prime minister Haider al-Abadi his fragile alliance with populist Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr, whose bloc is the largest in parliament Iraqi prime minister designate Adel Abdel Mahdi, seen here leaving parliament after his nomination on October 2, 2018, now has just 30 days to navigate the conflicting interests of rival factions and form a government Iraq's new President Barham Saleh, a Kurdish moderate who has served in both the federal and the Kurdish regional governments, addresses parliament after he defeated the candidate of veteran nationalist leader Massud Barzani on October 2, 2018 Italy's populist government bowed to pressure from the European Union over its spending plans with an offer Wednesday to taper budget deficit targets beyond 2020, as it looked to reassure nervous markets. Rome sparked disquiet last week by unveiling a budget that set the public deficit at around 2.4 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) for the next three years, earning a rebuke from the EU and stoking investor fears that Italy's mammoth debt could grow further. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte moved to row back slightly on Wednesday, saying the country was now eyeing deficits of 2.1 percent in 2020 and 1.8 percent in 2021. He had earlier vowed to speed up Italy's efforts to reduce its public debt which is at a sky-high level of 131 percent of GDP -- the eurozone's second biggest after Greece. The announcement came after Finance Minister Giovanni Tria said the deficit would be squeezed after 2019 because Rome saw reducing public debt as "fundamental". It was a sharp change in tack from Italy, after Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini on Tuesday threatened to seek damages from European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker for scaring off investors by attacking Rome's budget plans. The yield on Italian government bonds has spiked higher in recent days, with worried investors demanding more interest to hold onto Italian debt, making it more expensive for Rome to borrow on international markets. The closely-watched spread between the rates on 10-year bonds paid by Italy compared with those offered by Germany, which is a measure of the added risk perceived by investors to holding onto Italian debt, hit the highest level in a month on Monday. European Commissioner for Economic Affairs Pierre Moscovici, who angered Rome earlier this week by urging it to tell Italian people the truth about the need for sound spending, reinforced his criticisms Wednesday. "The Italians have... chosen a resolutely eurosceptic and xenophobic government that, on issues of migration and budget, is trying to get out of its European obligations," he said on the fringes of an OECD forum meeting in Paris. Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte had sought to assuage concerns over the budget by vowing to speed up efforts to reduce public debt The International Criminal Court on Wednesday pushed back to November a hearing on Ivory Coast former president Laurent Gbagbo's bid for release after defence lawyers said they needed more time. On Monday the court based in The Hague began dealing with Gbagbo's application to be acquitted of crimes against humanity and to be freed after seven years in detention. Gbagbo, 73, the first-ever head of state to be handed over to the ICC, has been on trial since 2016 for his role in fomenting post-electoral violence eight years ago in the west African nation. The hearings were meant to end on Friday, but lawyers for Gbagbo and his right-hand man Charles Ble Goude asked for more time. "We were confronted with a prosecution response of 1,100 pages and with 1,500 pages of documents on Monday," said Geert-Jan Knoops, lawyer for Ble Goude. "If we have to study all the details in the transcripts, in which we see a number of inconsistencies, we would need more time." Judge Cuno Tarfusser granted the request, setting the new hearing for November 12. Both Gbagbo and Ble Goude pleaded not guilty. Unrest wracked Ivory Coast for five months from December 2010 until early 2011, after Gbagbo refused to accept his internationally recognised defeat by bitter rival Alassane Ouattara. The crisis -- which saw both sides level allegations of gross abuses -- paralysed the world's largest cocoa producer and West African powerhouse for several months. About 3,000 people died when rival supporters clashed on the streets of Abidjan, one of the region's most cosmopolitan cities. After a months-long standoff, Gbagbo was arrested by Ouattara's troops aided by UN and French forces, and turned over to the ICC in 2011. Prosecutors maintain that Gbagbo clung to power "by all means" and that the longtime leader conspired with Ble Goude to orchestrate a plan to stay in power even before he was narrowly defeated by Ouattara. Defence lawyers however say the prosecution has failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt, despite 82 witnesses testifying, thousands of documents of evidence and hundreds of hours of video. Former Ivory Coast President Laurent Gbagbo, pictured 2009, is the first-ever head of state to be handed over to the ICC and has been on trial since 2016 for his role in fomenting post-electoral violence in the west African nation Perched on the edge of Libya's Mediterranean coast, the ancient city of Sabratha remains an awe-inspiring spectacle, the pink columns of its amphitheatre towering above turquoise waters. But the world heritage site is classed as "endangered" by UNESCO, its majestic structures pockmarked by mortar and small arms fire. Shell casings and bullets still litter the surrounding earth, a year after clashes between rival armed groups. Locals say snipers positioned themselves at the top of the amphitheatre, once a jewel of the Roman Empire. Bringing bloodshed back to the gladiatorial arena some 18 centuries after it was built, 39 people were killed and 300 wounded in the fighting. Today, the site around 70 kilometres (45 miles) from the capital lies eerily abandoned, encircled by parched grass and weeds. Since the toppling and killing of Libya's dictator Moamer Kadhafi in a 2011 uprising, Sabratha has become a key departure point for illegal migration. Smugglers and militias have profited amply from a chronic security vacuum. It is from the long and deserted shores a few kilometres (miles) from ancient Sabratha that most migrants start their perilous boat journeys towards Europe. - 'Permanent danger' - UNESCO declared Sabratha to be at risk in July 2016, along with four other Libyan sites on its World Heritage list. The UN's cultural organisation based its decision on two factors -- "damage already caused" and vulnerability to future destruction. It noted that "armed groups are present on these sites or in their immediate proximity". Experts fear worse is to come for the country's historic sites, as armed groups continue to vie for ascendancy. Libya's archaeological heritage is at great risk, warns Mohamad al-Chakchouki, head of the North African country's department of antiquities. The "entrenchment of armed groups inside archaeological sites and the battles which have unfolded near the sites, including Sabratha, pose a permanent danger", he told AFP. The conservation of sites was once entrusted to Western teams. But these experts have not travelled to Libya "for four years, because of the chaos and insecurity", said Chakchouki. Spread out over 90 hectares (220 acres), including a part engulfed by the sea, Sabratha is one of three former cities that constituted Roman Tripolitania. The others are Oea -- modern-day Tripoli -- and Leptis Magna in western Libya that was one of the sites classed as endangered by UNESCO two years ago. At the mercy of the scorching summer sun and the salty sea breeze, Sabratha suffers from stone erosion and degradation, said Mohamad Abu Ajela, an official at the city's office of antiquities. But the "damage caused by man is a greater fear", he said. A Spanish archaeological mission recently visited Sabratha and signed an agreement to restore some areas, including the theatre. But completion of the work "depends on the security situation", Ajela said. - Urbanisation and looting - Alongside armed conflict, several protected Libyan sites are threatened by uncontrolled urban expansion. One example is Cyrene, an ancient Greek city in northeastern Libya. Exploiting the chaos, people have claimed ownership of land and built within the archaeological site's perimeter. Looting is another threat to these sites, as the lack of security has led to illicit excavation and smuggling of antiquities. Several thefts of ancient objects have been reported. In March, Spain's interior ministry announced the seizure "of numerous works of art" from the Cyrenaica and Tripolitania regions, including seven mosaics, sarcophagi and pieces of Egyptian origin. Madrid said it had proof that two necropolises were looted by "terrorist groups". Officials in the antiquities department attempt to save what they can, often through desperate measures. Museums have closed -- including in Tripoli -- and some archaeological treasures have been transferred to a "safe place", Chakchouki said. Libya's ancient city of Sabratha, on the Mediterranean coast, is an awe-inspiring sight but it has been classed as "endangered" by UNESCO The majestic structures of Sabratha are pockmarked by mortar and small arms fire Once a jewel of the Roman Empire, locals say snipers positioned themselves at the top of the amphitheatre in Sabratha in clashes between rival armed groups a year ago Since the toppling and killing of Libya's dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011, Sabratha has become a key departure point for illegal migration Experts fear worse is to come for Libya's archaeological heritage, as armed groups continue to vie for ascendancy When he looks back on his youth in China's far-west Xinjiang region, Akikat Kaliolla, an ethnic Kazakh, recalls the place's natural beauty and the big, colourful weddings typical of his majority-Muslim community. But now Emin County where he grew up is a sealed-off pocket in a region experiencing a security crackdown against what Beijing calls separatist elements. Over a million people are allegedly being held in a secretive network of extra-judicial, political re-education centres, according to a United Nations panel of experts. In an interview with AFP in Kazakhstan, Kaliolla, a 34-year-old national, said this year he'd lost contact with his mother, father and two younger brothers, who he believes were interned in one of the camps. "What they are doing to people there, especially to my parents, is illegal," the professional musician said, during the interview in Kazakhstan's largest city, Almaty. "They are not livestock but people with rights. Both of my parents are elderly and in ill health." About 1.5 million ethnic Kazakhs live in Xinjiang, a region that borders Central Asia and has long been home to ethnic tensions. They had until recently avoided the kind of state repression of which the mostly Muslim Uighurs, who make up the region's demographic majority, have long complained. But Kaliolla is just one of many to have been separated from relatives across the border, as the Chinese authorities now train their sights on the ethnic Kazakhs. He said that he knows of "around a hundred people" either interned in the camps or with relatives there. "Lots of them are the same people I watched get married," he added. His only contact with the missing family members in over six months was in August, when his brother got in touch at the request of Xinjiang authorities, he said. He demanded that Kaliolla stop "speaking out imprudently" about their situation, as this would only bring them harm, he explained. - Advances in surveillance - A report by Human Rights Watch on political repressions in Xinjiang said rights violations in the nominally autonomous region "are of a scope and scale not seen in China since the 1966-1976 Cultural Revolution." What has changed since that time, according to the report released in September, are advances in surveillance techniques and bio-data collection that are being practised systematically on largely Muslim minorities. In August, Beijing described as "completely untrue" the claim by a United Nations human rights panel that over a million ethnic Uighurs and other ethnic minorities had been placed in re-education camps. Kaliolla, who moved to Kazakhstan after meeting his future wife, a citizen, at a music school in Xinjiang, said his family was targeted because his father spoke out against injustices perpetrated by police in Emin County. "My father was a legal counsellor there. When the government began putting more and more pressure on the Kazakh people, he wrote an appeal to the central authorities in Beijing," he told AFP. - 'Help us, please' ? Unlike Uighurs, many of whom say they face cultural and religious repression, Kazakhs had long moved freely between China and their historic homeland. That freedom disappeared after hardline official Chen Quanguo, known for his control measures in Tibet, became the Xinjiang Communist Party chief in 2016. China has pointed to a series of attacks in Xinjiang by suspected Islamist radicals in recent years as justification for the clampdown. With concerns growing over the rights of the region's ethnic minorities, neighbouring Kazakhstan has inadvertently become the focus for those speaking out. Kazakhstan officials themselves have steadfastly refused to refer specifically to the camps, even after voicing concern over the situation. But Kazakh nationals with relatives missing in Xinjiang have been more forthright, sharing stories of despair and separation at press conferences in Almaty. "Eight months and no contact! Help us, please!" exclaimed one woman, Gaukhar Kurmanaliyeva, to reporters in August. Kurmanaliyeva spoke of how her male cousin, a Kazakh citizen, was snatched by Chinese police at a shopping area at the border. Her account was followed by that of Muratkhan Kasengazy, who said his wife -- another Kazakh passport holder -- had been held in China since December 2017 after going there for medical treatment. In recent months, Kazakhstan risked China's wrath by refusing to deport an ethnic Kazakh woman of Chinese citizenship, who had confessed to crossing the border illegally to join her husband and children. The woman, Sayragul Sauytbay, became an international media sensation after testifying in a court hearing that she had been forced by Beijing to work in a re-education camp, where, she said, 2,500 ethnic Kazakhs were interned. - Rare happy endings - Kazakh Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov said in August that his country was in dialogue with Beijing over nearly 700 cases of Kazakhs unable to leave China. In some instances, the approach appears to have borne fruit. Guzalnur Jeniskazy went to China to visit relatives in 2016, leaving her four-month-old daughter at home for what was meant to be a short trip. But she ended up spending several months under house arrest and even a short stint in detention after losing her Kazakh passport, she told AFP correspondents, who witnessed her emotional family reunion at an Almaty bus station in July. "Thanks to the Kazakh consulate (in Urumqi, Xinjiang) I was freed," she said, holding her daughter tightly pressed to her. Such happy endings seem a rarity, however. Dependent on China's economic largesse and seeking a pivotal role in its trillion-dollar trade and infrastructure drive, the oil-rich Central Asian country is poorly placed to make demands, analysts say. "Kazakhstan's leverage over China is miserly," Aidos Sarym, an Almaty-based political scientist, told AFP. "If China does not bend to the European Union and the United States, what can we say of Kazakhstan?" Ethnic Kazakh Sayragul Sauytbay, who is a Chinese citizen, became an international media sensation after testifying in court that she had been forced by Beijing to work in a re-education camp. Kazakhstan refused to deport her after she confessed to crossing the border illegally to join her husband and children A Liverpool fan was injured after being attacked in the centre of Naples ahead of Wednesday's Champions League game, Italian police said. The 26-year-old was drinking with a group of friends outside a cafe on via Cesare Rosaroll in the city's historic centre just after midnight when they were accosted by a group of local men. The young man was taken to hospital and treated for cuts and bruising notably to his face and knees, police said according to the AGI news agency. He was given medication and later discharged with a full recovery expected in two weeks. Police said video surveillance cameras in the city centre would be used to try and identify the assailants. Napoli take on Liverpool in the second round of Champions League group matches with kickoff at the Stadio San Paolo at 1900 GMT. The English club sit top of Group C after beating Paris Saint-Germain 3-2 in their opener while the Italians were held 0-0 at Red Star Belgrade. A 26-year-old Liverpool supporter was injured after being attacked in the centre of Naples. A man lost parts of his hands, feet and nose after being licked by a dog and contracting a rare bacterial infection. Greg Manteufel, 48, went to the hospital on June 27 after he began exhibiting flu-like symptoms and, within hours of being admitted, he went into septic shock Through a blood test, doctors diagnosed the Wisconsin resident with an infection caused by Capnocytophaga canimorsus, a bacteria often found in dog and cat saliva. Ive been basically [the] healthiest person in the world so far up to this point, Mr Manteufel told local outlet WFSB. Greg Manteufel (pictured) had parts of his nose, feet and hands amputated. Source: Medical College of Wisconsis via WFSB They said I could have hit the lottery five times in a row in one day before I should have gotten this bacteria in my body. Doctors discovered a bacteria normally found in a dogs mouth, Capnocytophaga canimorsus, in Mr Manteufels blood stream. Medics are not certain, but have speculated that the man fell ill from a dog lick possibly from his 8-year-old pit bill. While he recovered from the infection, he developed a complication called disseminated intravascular coagulation. This led to poor blood flow and tissue death in his feet, arms and nose parts of which were later amputated. Mr Manteufel with a dog (pictured). Source: AOL Dr Silvia Munoz-Price, an infectious disease specialist with Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin, told WITI that Mr Manteufels case is an extremely rare occurrence and that pet owners need not panic. More than 99 percent of the people that have dogs will never have this issue. Its just chance, she told the station. Mr Manteufel will need plastic surgery to rebuild his nose as well as prosthetics for his hands and feet, according to a GoFundMe page for his medical costs. Currently, the page has raised over $240,000. US First Lady Melania Trump visited a former slave trading fort in Ghana on Wednesday, the second day of her maiden solo tour of Africa promoting her children's welfare programme. "Akwaaba (Welcome) to Cape Coast," read a sign hung from the whitewashed walls of the Cape Coast Castle, some 145 kilometres (90 miles) from the capital, Accra. But there were signs that the soft diplomatic push was yet to take off locally, as comparisons were drawn to the visit of former US president Barack Obama and his family in 2009. "The interest is very, very muted and subdued. There are a lot of people (in Ghana) who are extremely indifferent about this visit," political commentator Etse Sikanku told AFP. A relaxed and smiling Melania Trump arrived in Accra from Washington on Tuesday to a red-carpet welcome of traditional dancing and flag-waving schoolchildren. In a day of engagements as part of her "Be Best" campaign in education and healthcare, she handed out teddy bears to newborns and met her Ghanaian counterpart, Rebecca Akufo-Addo. The highlight of Wednesday's itinerary was the tour of Cape Coast Castle, a major outpost on the Atlantic slave trading route, where she also met members of the local Fante tribe. The imposing fort on the windswept coast, where untold numbers of people were kept in dark dungeons before being shipped overseas, is now on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It has seen a steady increase in visitors since Obama and his family toured the site. Obama -- whose photo now adorns the wall of a hall renamed in his honour -- said at the time that the cells were a reminder that "sometimes we can tolerate and stand by great evil even as we think that we are doing good". - Carve her own path - The first lady's visit to Ghana, Malawi, Kenya and Egypt has been seen as an attempt to carve her own path and emerge from her husband's shadow and his divisive presidency. It also comes after another turbulent week for the Trump administration, with controversy about his pick for the US Supreme Court, who has been accused of sexual assault. On Tuesday, President Trump openly mocked the university professor who made the allegations, drawing scorn from critics who said such taunts deterred survivors of assault. In Africa, interest in Melania Trump's visit is being watched to see if she can mend fences after her husband's reported comment that the continent contained "shithole" countries. Those who met her on Tuesday said they found the enigmatic former model "warm" and "gentle", although she made no speech and on Wednesday was heard largely thanking local dignitaries. Overall, there were doubts the visit would radically alter existing ties. The first lady wants to highlight the work of the US Agency for International Development, even as her husband looks to slash aid and restrict it to perceived friendly nations. The president has shown little interest in Africa since coming to power but tweeted about his wife's meeting with new mothers: "Proud of our great First Lady - and she loves doing this!" - Obama contrast - Photographs of the two first ladies featured on the front pages of major newspapers in Ghana while the visit was talked about on morning radio shows. But there were complaints about children being taken out of school to welcome her as well as the choice of visiting the newly built and well-equipped Greater Accra Regional Hospital. Some presenters said it would have been more accurate to show a more under-resourced hospital. Shared photos on Twitter showed just a handful of people at the side of the road as Trump's official convoy passed. Sikanku said comparisons with Obama's visit were inevitable and contrasted the "pomp and pageantry" surrounding his arrival and the interest generated by his Kenyan heritage. "It was like a big party, everybody was into it, people stood on rooftops, everybody wanted to see Barack Obama, the son of Africa," said Sikanku, author of "The Afrocentric Obama and Lessons on Political Campaigning". But for Melania Trump, "you wouldn't know about it unless you were following the news", he said. str-pool-phz/sf/txw US First Lady Melania Trump visits Cape Coast Castle, a former slave trading fort in Ghana Cape Coast Castle was a major outpost on the Atlantic slave trading route US First Lady Melania Trump visited a hospital in Ghana's capital Accra on the first day of her Africa tour US First Lady Melania Trump walked with museum educator Kwesi Essel-Blankson at the Cape Coast Castle, a former slave trading fort in Cape Coast Melania Trump received flowers during an arrival ceremony after landing at Kotoka International Airport in Accra on October 2 A mum says her baby almost lost four toes when a single strand of her own hair wrapped around them and cut off the circulation for 12 hours. Teaching assistant Alex Upton, 26, was woken up by her inconsolable 10-week-old son, Ezra, last week and was flummoxed by his refusal to take milk. After spotting his red, swollen toes, she discovered a piece of her hair was restricting circulation to them, leaving him in agony. The unsettled baby had developed hair tourniquet syndrome, which mostly affects infants when hair becomes tied around their toes, fingers, tongue or umbilical stump. Alex Uptons baby son Ezra nearly lost a toe after a strand of hair wrapped around it. Source: Kennedy News and Media Alex is now urging mums and dads to check their babies to avoid the terrifying injury. The mum from Paignton, Devon, in the UK, said: Ill certainly be checking everything for hair from now on. I just cant believe midwives or doctors dont warn you of the risk when you have a baby. I feared Ezra might lose some of his toes and he could easily have needed [to have them removed] if I hadnt noticed the hair then. It must have been on there for 12 to 14 hours because I only noticed it in the morning. When Baby Ezra had refused to take his milk and was screaming, Alex immediately thought something was amiss, as it was out of character. When changing the little one, she was horrified to find four of the toes on his left foot were red and swollen due to a strand of her own light brown hair being wrapped tightly around them. Baby Ezras badly swollen toe after a strand of hair cut off circulation. Source: Kennedy News and Media Alex said: Ezra wasnt himself in the morning. His normal routine is he wakes up, has his bottle then has a nap. He wasnt having any of his milk and was just screaming. It wasnt until I was changing him and saw the little bit of hair that I realised why he was so upset. It was just a single strand. One of his toes was really swollen and it had become really red and sore where the hair was. I pulled at it and realised how tightly itd wrapped around his toes. Itd tangled around three or four of them. I managed to get it off except for the toe next to his big toe. Thatd gone so tight that it got to the point where I couldnt get it off. Story continues I made a panicked call to my husband Ben, 29, as I was trying to get it free. His toes are so small that it was hard to get under the piece of hair. After 15 minutes, I thought Id have to call the doctor or take him to hospital but in the end I managed to get my tweezers underneath and pull it off. After that, I did take Ezra to the doctors just to be checked over and they gave me some anti-bacterial cream to put on it. Mums amputation fears Alex, who is currently on maternity leave with little Ezra, feared he could have needed an amputation if the hair had stayed on his little toes for much longer. She has now urged other parents to stay vigilant when bathing or dressing their children. Ben and Alex Upton with their children, Ezra, 10 weeks old, and Charley, 6. Source: Kennedy News and Media The safety-conscious mum is hoping that by speaking out, she will prevent other babies going through the unnecessary pain Ezra did. Alex said: Im normally really safety conscious with the kids but I had never expected this to happen to us. My advice to any parents would be when youre changing baby-grows or putting on socks, or even getting them out of the bath, check thoroughly and make sure you turn clothing inside out first to remove any stray hair. Hair easily gets stuck in things when theyve been in the washing machine too, so its important to check. I panicked a lot because Id seen things about it before but never really itd happen to one of my kids. Luckily Ezras okay now and back to his normal self. What is hair tourniquet syndrome? Hair tourniquet syndrome occurs when hair wraps around a body part and cuts off circulation. Inadequate medical care, improper segregation and even nooses found in cells are among "serious issues" found in a surprise inspection at the largest detention site for immigrants in California. The US Department of Homeland Security released Tuesday the results of a visit by the Office of the Inspector General to the detention site in Adelanto, California. The site, located some 90 miles (150 kilometers) northeast of Los Angeles, holds 1,940 male and female adult immigrants. It is managed by The Geo Group, a government contractor that runs privately run prisons and detention sites. "We identified a number of serious issues" that violate Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) standards that "pose significant health and safety risks at the facility," said the report, dated September 27. Inspectors found nooses made from braided bed sheets hanging from air vents in 15 of 20 cells for male detainees. The report said that in March 2017, a 32-year-old man choked himself to death with sheets in his cell, and that seven suicide attempts were reported between December 2016 and July 2017. "ICE's lack of response to address this matter at the Adelanto Center shows a disregard for detainee health and safety," the report said. And the pervasive suicide attempts are not always successful. "I've seen a few attempted suicides using the braided sheets by the vents and then the guards laugh at them and call them 'suicide failures' once they are back from medical," an unidentified detainee was quoted as telling the investigators. The report warned that "ICE must prioritize addressing the issue of sheets hanging in detainee cells, as they represent the potential to assist suicide acts." - Nine days in a wheelchair - The report also noted mistakes in segregating detainees for disciplinary or administrative reasons. In one case, a disabled detainee was mistakenly held in disciplinary segregation for nine days, during which time he "never left his wheelchair to sleep in a bed or brush his teeth." Such violations of segregation standards "pose a significant threat to maintaining detainee rights and ensuring their mental and physical well-being." The inspectors also saw contract guards move detainees in handcuffs and shackles, contravening ICE regulations. The physical restraints gives "the appearance of criminal, rather than civil, custody." The report also noted the lack of proper medical and dental care. Detainees frequently wait for weeks and even months to see a doctor or a dentist, and often the appointments are canceled with no explanation. One detainee reported waiting eight months to have a tooth pulled, while another said the dentist pulled the wrong tooth. Attached to the report was a letter from ICE saying that it will inspect the Adelanto site starting October 18 "to ensure corrective actions are completed." "Any compliance issues found during such reviews must be promptly addressed," said ICE spokeswoman Lori Haley. "ICE takes seriously the OIG's findings, and has agreed to conduct a full and immediate review of the center to ensure compliance with detention standards and expedite necessary corrective actions." The Adelanto Detention Facility is the largest Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) holding center in California Travellers heading over to New Zealand can now be fined more than $4000 if they refuse to hand over their smartphone passwords upon arrival. The nations highly scrutinised Customs and Excise Act 2018 came into effect this week allowing customs officials to demand access information like passwords, PINs and encryption keys. Border officials can now demand that people unlock their phone and other electronic devices so they can be searched a decision that is causing outrage amongst travellers and union officials. Refusal to comply could lead to prosecution and a fine of up to 5,000 New Zealand dollars roughly $4180 Australian. Border officials can demand that people unlock their phone and other electronic devices so they can be searched. Image: Getty Thomas Beagle from the New Zealand Council for Civil Liberties (CCL) condemned the decision, saying modern smartphones contain a large amount of highly sensitive private information including emails, letters, medical records, personal photos, and very personal photos. The reality of this law is that it gives Customs the power to take and force the unlock of peoples smartphones without justification or appeal and this is exactly what Customs has always wanted, Mr Beagle said in a statement. The group said there was no justification for the expansion of Customs powers and the procedures of the new law were lightweight with no oversight. We think that this is disproportionate the imposition on regular law abiding people far outweighs the minor benefits realisable through the use of the power. Refusal to comply could lead to prosecution and a fine of up to $4180. Image: Getty Demanding people hand over the contents of their smartphones containing personal data for the ostensible purpose of preventing crimes against the Customs Act is grossly excessive and cannot be justified. According to CNN, Privacy Foundation New Zealand said members had also expressed concern to the government during the consultation process. A spokeswoman for New Zealand Customs reportedly said the change to the law was necessary as the shift from paper-based systems to electronic systems has meant that the majority of prohibited material and documents are now stored electronically. Pope Francis on Wednesday offered a "warm welcome" to two Chinese Catholic bishops attending a synod for the first time following a landmark deal between China and the Vatican. "Today, for the first time, we have also with us two bishops from mainland China," the pontiff said in a speech to kick off the month-long advisory body meeting on the role of young people in the 1.2 billion-member church. "We offer them our warm welcome: the communion of the entire episcopate with the successor of Peter is yet more visible thanks to their presence," he said. On September 22, the Vatican and China reached a provisional agreement under which Pope Francis recognised seven clergy initially ordained by Beijing without the Vatican's approval. The accord could pave the way for the normalisation of ties between the Catholic Church and the world's most populous country. One of those recognised, Bishop Joseph Guo Jincai, is attending the synod along with Bishop John Baptist Yang Xiaotin, another member of the Patriotic Catholic Association (PCA), a body created by the Chinese government to administer the church. Francis said he hoped the synod would help "broaden our horizons, expand our hearts and transform those frames of mind that today paralyse, separate and alienate us from young people, leaving them exposed to stormy seas". The meeting of more than 300 church officials, outside experts and youth delegates is taking place in the shadow of an existential crisis in the Church over cases of widespread sexual abuse of minors by clergy and lay officials in a number of countries. Pope Francis is hosting is hosting a synod of bishops focusing on the role of young people in the Catholic Church A collision between two Sudanese army planes on the runway at Khartoum airport on Wednesday injured eight people, officials said. The Soviet-era Antonov aircraft had landed within seconds of each other when the accident occurred, an airport official said. "Eight people were injured and taken to hospital when two military planes collided at Khartoum airport," said another official who spoke to AFP on condition of anonymity. Sudanese military spokesman Brigadier Ahmed Khalifa Shami in a statement said the two aircraft were military cargo planes, and added that the incident did not cause "any losses". An investigation had been launched to find the reason for the collision, he said. Video footage posted on social media showed two planes moving along the runway before one suddenly rams the tail of the other. Both planes appeared to have been badly damaged in pictures posted online. Airport officials said the facility had been temporarily closed after the accident. Wednesday's accident is the third to have hit Sudan's ageing military fleet in less than a month. On September 21, two pilots were killed when their military jet crashed near Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum on the west bank of the Nile. It came days after a military helicopter crashed on landing in Darfur. All passengers were rescued as the helicopter caught fire. Most of Sudan's fleet consists of Soviet-made aircraft, and in recent years it has suffered several crashes, with the military frequently blaming technical problems and bad weather. Two planes had landed within seconds of each other on the runway at Khartoum airport (pictured 2009) when the accident occurred A veteran Saudi journalist who has been critical of the government has gone missing after visiting the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday, the Washington Post reported. Jamal Khashoggi, who writes opinion pieces for the Post, has not been seen since entering the consulate in the afternoon, according to his fiance who accompanied him but waited outside until it closed, the newspaper said. Khashoggi, a former government advisor who went into self-imposed exile in the United States last year to avoid possible arrest, has been critical of some of the policies of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Riyadh's intervention in the war in Yemen. "We have been unable to reach Jamal today and are very concerned about where he may be," the Post's international opinions editor Eli Lopez said in a statement. "We are monitoring the situation closely, trying to gather more information. It would be unfair and outrageous if he has been detained for his work as a journalist and commentator." The US State Department said it was investigating. "We have seen these reports and are seeking more information at this time," an official said. Khashoggi has written pieces critical of some of the crown prince's policies and said that before he left the kingdom the Saudi government banned him from Twitter "when I cautioned against an overly enthusiastic embrace of then-President-elect Donald Trump". In a Global Opinions piece for the Post in September last year, Khashoggi wrote: "When I speak of the fear, intimidation, arrests and public shaming of intellectuals and religious leaders who dare to speak their minds, and then I tell you that I'm from Saudi Arabia, are you surprised?" Saudi Arabia, which ranks 169th out of 180 on an RSF World Press Freedom Index, has promoted a modernization campaign since the 2017 appointment of Prince Mohammed as heir to the throne. But the ultraconservative kingdom, which won plaudits in June for finally lifting a ban on women driving, has drawn heavy criticism for its handling of dissent. Jamal Khashoggi, who is a contributor to the Washington Post, has not been seen since entering the consulate in the afternoon, according to his fiance who accompanied him but waited outside until it closed, the newspaper said A Turkish military convoy entered rebel-held northwestern Syria early on Wednesday, an AFP correspondent reported, as the deadline for establishing a buffer zone between rebel and government forces draws closer. At least 40 vehicles, including trucks and armoured personnel carriers, were seen moving slowly south along a main highway under the cover of darkness. The troops they were carrying are expected to be deployed at "observation posts" Turkey has already set up in rebel-held areas of Idlib and Aleppo provinces. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said the vehicles were heading to Turkish monitoring posts, including in the southwestern parts of Idlib. There was no word from Turkey on any reinforcements to the area. It last sent a similar troop column into northern Syria just over a week ago. Wednesday's convoy entered as the deadline for implementing a Turkish-Russian accord on the future of Syria's last major rebel bastion draws closer. Last month, Moscow and Ankara agreed to set up a demilitarised zone ringing rebel territory to avert a threatened government offensive. All factions in the zone must withdraw heavy weapons by October 10, and radical groups must leave by October 15. It will then be monitored by Turkish troops and Russian military police. The region's dominant armed group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an alliance led by jihadists of Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, has still not officially responded to the accord. Turkey's main rebel allies, the National Liberation Front, gave the deal a cautious welcome before objecting to its provisions for a Russian troop presence inside the zone. The NLF says it is still hammering out the details of the agreement's implementation with Ankara, and is wary that the current proposals would eat into their territory too much. In an interview aired Tuesday, Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem said he hoped the deal would prove to be a "step towards the liberation of Idlib." Muallem told Lebanon's Al-Mayadeen television he was confident in Turkey's ability to fulfil its side of the deal "because of its knowledge of factions" on the ground. Fighters from the area would be allowed to stay, he said, while those from other areas would go home and foreigners would leave through Turkey. A Turkish troop convoy passes through the rebel-held Kammari district of Syria's Aleppo province late on October 2, 2018 as the deadline for establishing a Russian- and Turkish-monitored buffer zone between rebel and government forces draws closer The main Turkish-backed rebel group in northwestern Syria, the National Liberation Front, has voiced misgivings about parts of a truce deal Ankara reached with government ally Moscow, saying a planned buffer zone eats too much into its territory The UN's top court will rule Wednesday on Iran's bid to suspend crippling US sanctions reimposed by President Donald Trump after he pulled out of the international nuclear deal with Tehran. The International Court of Justice in The Hague will hand down its decision at 0800 GMT in a case which threatens to plunge relations between Washington and Tehran to a new low. Tehran dragged Washington to the International Court of Justice in July, saying the United States had breached a 1955 "friendship treaty" that predates Iran's Islamic Revolution. Trump slapped a first round of sanctions on Iran in August after pulling out in May of a historic deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions. A second round of punitive measures is due in November. Iran called on the ICJ judges to order the immediate suspension of Trump's unilateral move to reimpose economic sanctions, a move that also alarmed Washington's EU allies. During four days of hearings in late August, Iran's lawyers accused Washington of "strangling" its economy and its representative called the punitive measures "naked economic aggression". Washington however forcefully told the court -- which rules on disputes between United Nations member states -- that it has no jurisdiction to rule on this case as it concerns a matter of national security. Rulings by the ICJ are binding and cannot be appealed, but it has no way to enforce its decisions. Wednesday's ruling is in fact a decision on so-called provisional measures ahead of a final decision on the matter, which may take several more years, experts said. - 'Aggravating the dispute' - However "if the court orders measures, they should be respected," Eric De Brabandere, a professor of international law at the University of Leiden, told AFP. If the court decides it has jurisdiction, it will likely "declare that the parties should refrain from aggravating the dispute", but any steps beyond this remain to be seen, he said. The 2015 nuclear deal saw Iran agree to limit its nuclear programme and let in international inspectors in return for an end to years of sanctions by the West. But Trump pulled out of the deal in May, arguing that funds from the lifting of sanctions under the pact had been used to support terrorism and build nuclear-capable missiles. Relations have plunged to a new low since Trump's election in 2016, even as the US president reaches out to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un over his nuclear programme. Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani faced off at the UN in September, with Rouhani denouncing leaders with "xenophobic tendencies resembling a Nazi disposition". Despite their 1955 Treaty of Amity and Economic Relations, Iran and the United States have not had diplomatic ties since 1980. The case is the second brought by Tehran against Washington since 2016. That year it brought a suit at the ICJ against the freezing of around $2 billion of Iranian assets abroad which US courts say should go to American victims of terror attacks. Hearings in that case are due to start next week. US President Donald Trump and his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani faced off at the UN in September Tehran dragged Washington to the International Court of Justice in July, saying the United States had breached a 1955 "friendship treaty" The International Court of Justice is housed in the Peace Palace in The Hague Despite their 1955 Treaty of Amity and Economic Relations, Iran and the United States have not had diplomatic ties since 1980 Tehran welcomed on Wednesday a ruling by the UN's top court ordering Washington to suspend sanctions on humanitarian goods, as a "clear sign" that "Iran is in the right". The ruling by the International Court of Justice "once again shows that the US government... is day by day becoming more isolated," the foreign ministry said in a statement. The US "must...change into a responsible and normal country in the international community." The ministry said the crippling sanctions reimposed by Washington after it abandoned the landmark 2015 nuclear deal between major powers and Tehran were "illegal". As a result of the court's finding, "world public opinion and all independent countries will, with peace of mind, strive... to keep and carry out the JCPOA," it added, using the official acronym for the agreement. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif called the court ruling "another failure for sanctions-addicted US government and victory for rule of law". "Imperative for int'l community to collectively counter malign US unilateralism," he added in a tweet. US President Donald Trump and Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani faced off at the UN in September. Tehran has hailed a ruling by the UN's top court ordering Washington to suspend sanctions on humanitarian goods, as a "clear sign" it is "in the right" The death toll in Indonesia's twin quake-tsunami disaster passed 1,400 Wednesday, with time running out to rescue survivors and the UN warning of "vast" unmet needs that have fuelled looting. Indonesian soldiers have been ordered to fire on those raiding stores on the quake and tsunami-struck island of Sulawesi, a colonel told AFP, after desperate survivors emptied shops of food and water. Meanwhile the authorities have set a tentative deadline of Friday to find anyone still trapped under rubble, at which point -- a week after this devastating double disaster -- the chances of finding survivors will dwindle to almost zero. Military spokesman M. Thohir said the number of confirmed dead has risen to 1,411, while the disaster agency said 519 bodies have already been buried. Government rescue workers seeking survivors are focusing on half a dozen key sites around the seaside city of Palu -- the Hotel Roa-Roa where up to 60 people are still believed buried, a shopping mall, a restaurant and the Balaroa area where the sheer force of the quake turned the earth temporarily to mush. At a minimum, 150 people are unaccounted for beneath the rubble, officials said. According to the UN's humanitarian office almost 200,000 people need urgent help, among them tens of thousands of children, with an estimated 66,000 homes destroyed or damaged by the 7.5-magnitude quake and the tsunami it spawned. Despite the Indonesian government having earlier urged foreign rescue teams to "stand down" because the crisis was in hand, residents in hard-hit, remote villages like Wani in Donggala province say little help has arrived and hope is fading. "Twelve people in this area haven't yet been found," Mohammad Thahir Talib told AFP. "In the area to the south, because there hasn't been an evacuation we don't know if there are bodies. It's possible there are more," the 39-year-old said. The Red Cross expressed frustration at the slow pace of the response. "There are still large areas of what might be the worst-affected areas that haven't been properly reached, but the teams are pushing, they are doing what they can," said Matthew Cochrane, a spokesman for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The World Health Organization has estimated that across Donggala, some 310,000 people have been affected by the disaster. Survivors are battling thirst and hunger, with food and clean water in short supply, and local hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of injured. Officials on the ground said that while the government had now invited offers of help, there is still no "mechanism for this to be implemented". Landing slots at Palu airport are snapped up by the Indonesian military, although it was slated to be open to commercial flights from 7:59am on Thursday (2359 GMT Wednesday). Signs of desperation are growing, with police officers forced to fire warning shots and teargas to ward off people ransacking shops. "If there is looting again, we will quickly fire a warning shot and then shoot to immobilise," said military colonel Ida Dewa Agung Hadisaputra. Six of the Indonesian social affairs ministry's trucks laden with supplies were reportedly looted enroute to Palu and on one route out of the city, an AFP journalist saw youths blocking the road and asking for "donations". On the outskirts of the city, hundreds of people sifted through the ruins of a collapsed factory, salvaging food, drinks and construction materials. Indonesia President Joko Widodo, who faces reelection next year, insisted the military and the police were in full control. "There is no such thing as looting," he said on a visit to Palu. - Body bag shortage - As survivors pick through the shattered remains of their neighbourhoods, the death toll continues to rise. The Indonesia-based ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance said that more body bags were "urgently" needed as fears grow that decomposing corpses could provide a breeding ground for deadly diseases. Rescue efforts have been hampered by a lack of heavy machinery, severed transport links and the scale of the damage. In yet another reminder of Indonesia's vulnerability to natural disasters, the Soputan Volcano in Sulawesi erupted Wednesday, spewing volcanic ash up to 4,000 metres above the crater. - 'There's no toilet' - With power returning to parts of Palu late Tuesday, phone networks back up and running and even some markets opening for business, there were the faintest signs of things getting back to normal. But for most, daily life has changed beyond all recognition. Palu residents crowded around daisy-chained power strips at the few buildings with electricity, or queued for water, cash or petrol being brought in via armed police convoy. Queues to get a few litres of petrol lasted more than 24 hours in some places. Sanitation is also a growing problem. "People everywhere want to go to the toilet but there's no toilet. So we do it along the road at night," said 50-year-old Armawati Yarmin. Indonesia sits along the Pacific "Ring of Fire", the world's most tectonically active region, and its 260 million people remain hugely vulnerable to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions. The number of dead has risen to 1,407 across four areas around the ravaged seaside city of Palu Maps showing how the Palu tsunami occurred. Rescue efforts have been hampered by a lack of heavy machinery, severed transport links and the scale of the damage Survivors are battling thirst and hunger, with food and clean water in short supply, and local hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of injured Almost 200,000 people need urgent help, among them tens of thousands of children, the UN said A quake survivor makes his way past debris and a beached passenger ferry in Wani, Indonesia's Central Sulawesi Quake survivors strugle to get live chickens being distributed from a police truck outside a makeshift camp in Palu in Indonesia's Central Sulawesi A major UK university has banned clapping from certain events to make a more inclusive environment for those with anxiety or sensory issues. The University of Manchester will now move to replace clapping with jazz hands the British Sign Language equivalent. According to student newspaper, the Mancunion, The Students Union passed the resolution to ban clapping at their events on September 27. It was argued that the loud noise of traditional clapping and whooping pose an issue to students with anxiety or sensory issues. BSL clapping or, jazz hands would be a more inclusive form of expression, the paper reported. The University of Manchester has banned clapping at student union events, according to the student newspaper. Image: Getty (file image) While the motion received the necessary 66 per cent for the vote to be passed, journalist Piers Morgan wasnt quite as receptive to the idea, Tweeting university students banning clapping gives ME anxiety. Morgan wasnt the one unimpressed by the decision either. TV presenter Jeremy Vine tweeted a photo of soldiers in the First World War and said: Students will instead use silent jazz hands. Glad some brave young souls decided to ignore the difficulties caused by sudden noises 100 years ago. A NUS spokeswoman said jazz hands allows those with disabilities or sensory conditions to participate in events. They are now calling on others to follow suit. We should all aspire to improve our public spaces so that all members of society feel comfortable and able to contribute fully, they said. The spokesperson denied the newspapers claims that they had issued a blanket ban o clapping, saying rather they were simply encouraging people to use jazz hands as an alternative. We are not banning clapping, because it is unrealistic to think we could police that sort of thing. Its more encourage. There are no penalties for people using traditional clapping, she said. The United States is expected to make its offensive cyber warfare capabilities available to NATO, officials said Wednesday, as the alliance seeks to strengthen its defences against Russian electronic attacks. Britain and Denmark have already publicly committed cyber resources to NATO, and Washington is expected to announce that it will follow suit on Thursday at a meeting of defence ministers in Brussels. Alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg said cyber attacks on NATO countries were becoming "more frequent... more sophisticated... more coercive" and any contribution of cyber capabilities was welcome. "We see cyber being used to meddle in domestic political processes, attacks against critical infrastructure, and cyber will be an integral part of any future military conflict," Stoltenberg said. The three Baltic states -- Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia -- say they come under near-daily cyber assault, with government departments, banking systems and the power grid coming in for attack, and point the finger at former Soviet ruler Russia. Moscow is also blamed for interfering in various European elections through campaigns of disinformation on social media. Most recently, Washington accused Russia of leading a disinformation campaign in Macedonia through social media to discourage voters from taking part in last weekend's referendum on changing the country's name. The name change is crucial to Macedonia's hopes of joining NATO -- a step Moscow opposes. Britain and Denmark have already publicly committed cyber security resources to NATO, and Washington is expected to announce that it will follow suit Vietnam Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong was nominated Wednesday as the only candidate for president, effectively ordaining him as the most powerful person in the country. The party's central committee announced the nomination after President Tran Dai Quang died last month following a long illness. "The Party Central Committee unanimously agreed on nominating Nguyen Phu Trong to the post of President," the party said on its website. The country's rubber-stamp National Assembly is expected to approve the nomination of Trong, also a member of the powerful politburo, at their next month-long session which opens on October 22. Trong will become the first person to hold the top posts of president and party leader simultaneously since Ho Chi Minh, the country's independence leader and Communist Party founder, did so in the 1960s. His roles will make up half of Vietnam's top political posts -- known as the "four pillars" -- which also include Prime Minister and head of the National Assembly. The president's post is largely seen as ceremonial, though officially it will make Trong the head of state as well as chief of the Communist Party, in a country where all other political parties are banned. Trong, 74, is known as a conservative and hardline leader who has led a high-level crackdown on corruption that has seen dozens of former officials, bankers, and executives put behind bars. He has also been accused of waging a crackdown on dissidents, with at least 40 jailed this year alone. Observers say the lengths of sentences for political prisoners -- which have hit up to 20 years -- have crept up under Trong leadership. Trong, who has been a member of the communist party since 1967, started his career as an editor of one of the party's official journals when he was just in his 20s. He has been party general secretary since 2011 and was reelected to the post in 2016. Vietnam's Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong (C), flanked by Indonesia's President Joko Widodo (L) and Vietnam's Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R), pictured at the World Economic Forum in Hanoi on September 12, 2018 After almost two decades of political wrangling Australia on Wednesday finally agreed to scrap its so-called "tampon tax". When Australia introduced a Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2000, health products such as condoms and sunscreen were exempt from the 10 percent charge, along with most foods. But tampons and other women's hygiene products were not. Since then, the "tampon tax" has drawn widespread fire, branded as "sexist" by campaigners, and a regular source of bickering between Canberra, and state and territory governments, which receive revenues from the GST. Australia's health minister in 2000 Michael Wooldridge set a dark trajectory for the tax when he suggested tampons should not be exempt as they did not "prevent illness". "As a bloke, I'd like shaving cream exempt, but I'm not expecting it to be," he told national broadcaster ABC, sparking a sharp public backlash. Years of outcry followed, with "stop taxing my period!" campaigns and staunch activism from groups like the "menstrual avengers". Leaders on both sides of politics flirted with the exemption, while others shied away, passing the buck onto state and territory governments. But on Wednesday a meeting of state and territory treasurers agreed unanimously to scrap the tax as of January, agreeing to forgo the reported Aud$30 million (US$21.5 million) in revenue it raised each year. "There has been a long and tortured history on GST when it comes to tampons and feminine hygiene products," the federal minister for women, Kelly O'Dwyer, told reporters. "I'm very happy to report that today we have been successful, the states and territories have come on board, and millions of Australian women will benefit as a result." The move came at a precarious time for the conservative governing coalition, as it seeks to increase its appeal to women amid complaints of bullying and intimidation from female MPs in its ranks. The complaints reached a crescendo last month during a party revolt which led to the ouster of moderate prime minister Malcolm Turnbull, and the resignation of foreign minister Julie Bishop, the highest-ranking woman in government. New Prime Minister Scott Morrison has resisted calls for his Liberal party to set a quota for women candidates in future elections, insisting the party selects "the best candidate" for the job. About 20 percent of Liberal MPs are women, compared to about 45 percent for the opposition Labour party, which maintains a quota for female participation. Australia has finally scrapped its 'tampon tax' which was branded as sexist by campaigners A Democratic super political action committee unveiled a seven-figure television ad campaign Wednesday that criticizes Republican U.S. Rep. John Katko for supporting a major tax overhaul last year. House Majority PAC's 30-second commercial will air on broadcast and cable stations in the Syracuse media market and on cable stations in the Rochester market. The ad slams Katko, R-Camillus, for supporting the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The commercial singles out certain provisions in the tax law, including the cap on state and local tax deductions and the elimination of the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate penalty. It also claims that the tax plan gives 83 percent of the benefits to the wealthy, but that will only occur if the individual income tax cuts expire after 2025. Hannah Blatt, House Majority PAC's press secretary, said Katko "has thrown central New Yorkers under the bus." "And he's done it all to please his party leadership pushing their toxic agenda that gives the ultra-rich massive tax cuts while forcing hardworking families to pay for it," Blatt said. "From health care to taxes, Katko can't be trusted to stand up for central New York families." Democrats have made Katko's tax vote a top issue in the 24th Congressional District. His opponent, Dana Balter, has referenced the vote in interviews and television ads of her own. Katko was one of four New York Republicans who supported the tax reform legislation late last year. He has reiterated his support for the measure and maintains that it will benefit a vast majority of his constituents. With the House Majority PAC's involvement in the race, Katko's campaign responded to the ad by questioning whether Balter, D-Syracuse, will support Nancy Pelosi to continue as the Democratic Party's leader in the House. "For months, Dana Balter has refused to answer whether she will support (Pelosi) for speaker," said Jeff Bishop, Katko's campaign manager. "Central New Yorkers learned today its because Pelosi's corporate dollars are bankrolling Balter's campaign. Despite Balter's promise not to accept corporate dollars, she's gladly accepting the support of Pelosi. "Right down the road, Anthony Brindisi has vowed he won't back Pelosi for speaker. Will Dana Balter make the same pledge?" Balter has said in interviews that she wants to see the candidates for the Democratic leadership post before deciding who to support. She has acknowledged that there's a need for a "new approach," but hasn't said whether Pelosi should be replaced as the top House Democrat. The House Majority PAC's investment in the race follows former President Barack Obama's endorsement of Balter earlier this week. Balter also announced that she raised $1.5 million in the last fundraising quarter, a new record for Syracuse-area congressional candidates. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 It's a claim that has been repeated in Democratic television commercials criticizing U.S. Rep. John Katko for his support of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that 83 percent of the benefits will go to the top 1 percent of income earners. The latest mention of this claim is in a House Majority PAC commercial slamming Katko, R-Camillus, for his vote on the tax overhaul last year. The ad is part of a $1 million campaign in the 24th Congressional District. In the ad, a narrator states that Katko voted to give "the top 1 percent 83 percent of the tax breaks." The commercial claims that Katko voted to take away the state and local tax deduction, and that the tax measure will add nearly $2 trillion to the national debt. It also charges that the Republicans' next move is to cut Medicare and Social Security and that health insurance premiums will increase due to the tax plan. Let's take a look at these claims. Benefits for the wealthy The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act included several changes to the tax code, including lower income tax rates and a corporate tax rate reduction. It also eliminates several deductions (more on that later) and exemptions. Some of the changes made in the law are permanent, such as the corporate tax cut. But others, namely the income tax cuts, are not. That's important for understanding the Democrats' claim. When congressional leaders drafted the tax legislation, they opted to make the income tax cuts temporary to abide by Senate rules. In the final version of the measure, the tax cuts are set to expire after 2025. If the tax cuts expire after 2025, studies have found that most of the benefits will go to the wealthy. But that's only if the tax cuts expire in 2025. The Democratic ads mislead viewers to believe that this claim is true now, when it's not. State and local tax deduction The House Majority PAC ad said Katko voted to "take away" the state and local tax deduction, which allows individuals to deduct state and local taxes when filing their federal tax returns. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act made changes to the state and local tax deduction. Early proposals of the measure called for the complete elimination of the ability to deduct state and local taxes. Katko was one of several New York Republicans who called for, at minimum, a compromise. And that's what they got. The final legislation included a $10,000 cap on state and local tax deductions. New York state leaders, most notably Gov. Andrew Cuomo, have railed against the cap on state and local tax deductions. He has accused congressional Republicans of political retribution because the deduction is mainly used by individuals in blue states, such as New York. But the deduction, despite the ad's claim, didn't go away. While there is a cap, the law preserves the ability to deduct state and local taxes. Adding to the debt This claim in the House Majority PAC ad is factual, although Republicans argue they could avoid adding to the debt if the economy continues to grow. The commercial states that the tax law will increase the national debt by $1.9 trillion. The Congressional Budget Office released a report in April that projected the national debt will increase by that amount from 2018 to 2028. Cutting Medicare, Social Security With the national debt hike, there was speculation Republicans may target social insurance programs. This gained traction when House Speaker Paul Ryan said that "entitlement reform" would be a priority in 2018. That wound up not being the case. With no formal plan proposed, it's unclear whether Republicans would seek Medicare and Social Security cuts. When Ryan chaired the House Budget Committee, he floated a proposal that would alter Medicare for younger Americans. The main piece of that plan calls for the implementation of a voucher system. The vouchers would be given to individuals to purchase private insurance. Some Republicans have discussed the need to cut "entitlement spending" on Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Katko, though, has spoken out against any potential cuts to the programs. At a public forum in August, he was asked if he would support a push to cut spending on those programs to reduce the debt. He responded, "I am not going to vote to cut Medicare or Medicaid or Social Security. I'm just not." Health insurance premiums This has been the focus of other TV ads released by Balter and Democrats in the 24th district. Katko has been criticized for his tax vote because it eliminated the individual mandate penalty. The individual mandate is a provision in the Affordable Care Act requiring people to buy health insurance. If they don't, they must pay a fine. (For 2018, the penalty is $695 for adults or 2 percent of their household income, whichever is greater.) Katko long opposed the individual mandate, and defended his vote for the tax bill by noting that he doesn't believe that requirement should be in effect. Beginning in 2019, the penalty will no longer be in place. A consequence of the individual mandate's repeal is higher health insurance premiums. Insurers submitted proposed rates for 2019 and many sought double-digit increases. A main reason they cited for the higher rates: The elimination of the individual mandate. A report released by AARP found that premiums for individuals in the 50 to 64 age group would increase by up to $1,500 a year. CONCLUSION There are some accurate claims in the House Majority PAC ad. The national debt is projected to increase, health insurance premiums could rise and some Republicans (not Katko) haven't ruled out cuts to Medicare and Social Security. But the ad's main claim conceals an important fact that 83 percent of the benefits will go to the top 1 percent only if the income tax cuts expire after 2025. It's possible that the tax cuts could expire and this claim could, one day, be true. But in this campaign, in 2018, it is not. Love 6 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 Dana Balter and other Democratic women candidates in New York races will receive help from the highest-ranking woman in state government. Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul launched a campaign last week to support Balter, D-Syracuse, and eight other women running for Congress or state Senate. Her plan will include fundraising for the candidates and supporting their get-out-the-vote efforts as Election Day nears. In addition to Balter, Hochul will support congressional candidates Liuba Grechen Shirley (NY-02), Tedra Cobb (NY-21) and Tracy Mitrano (NY-23). She will also assist five state Senate candidates: Monica Martinez (SD-03), Anna Kaplan (SD-07), Jen Metzger (SD-42), Karen Smythe (SD-41) and Jen Lunsford (SD-55). "I have been traveling the state nonstop talking to voters about how we need to elect Democrats because our New York values are on the line," Hochul said in a statement. "Republican control of Congress and the New York State Senate has been a disastrous disappointment for all New Yorkers, especially women and middle-class families." Hochul is less than a month removed from her victory in the Democratic primary for lieutenant governor. She defeated New York City Councilman Jumaane Williams by six points, 48 to 42 percent. While the overall tally was close, Hochul won 58 of the state's 62 counties. She outperformed Gov. Andrew Cuomo, her running mate who also faced a primary challenge, in some upstate counties. Hochul has connections to central New York, which could help Balter. She is a Syracuse University graduate and as lieutenant governor she has visited the region on several occasions. Balter's opponent is U.S. Rep. John Katko, a two-term Republican. The Cuomo administration has been critical of some of Katko's positions, most notably his vote for the tax overhaul last year. In November, one month before Congress finalized the tax legislation, Hochul urged Katko to reconsider his support of the measure. He did not. He was one of four New York Republicans who supported the bill. Joe Farrell, Balter's campaign manager, welcomed Hochul's backing. "This election is critically important because all of our values that are at stake," Farrell said. "It is crucial to stand and defend these values by electing Democratic candidates up and down the ballot. We have powerful women running on the ticket this year and we must show up to support them all. Lt. Gov. Hochul knows the issues that are important to the people of central New York and western New York and we are glad to have her support." Katko is favored in the 24th Congressional District race, but Balter is gaining momentum in the last month of the campaign. She announced on Monday that she raised $1.5 million in the most recent fundraising quarter, a record for a Syracuse-area congressional candidate. Also on Monday, Balter received former President Barack Obama's endorsement. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 A state-level organization advocating for stricter gun laws endorsed several Democrats in New York House and Senate races, including Dana Balter in the 24th Congressional District. New Yorkers Against Gun Violence is supporting Balter, D-Syracuse, in her race against Republican U.S. Rep. John Katko. Balter is one of seven House challengers who received the group's endorsement. The endorsement process consisted of a questionnaire distributed to candidates. New Yorkers Against Gun Violence also considered candidates' support for gun safety legislation. "Gun violence is preventable and New York state has shown that strong gun laws reduce gun deaths and injuries," said Rebecca Fisher, executive director of New Yorkers Against Gun Violence. "We endorse these candidates because they have demonstrated that they have the leadership to stand up to the (National Rifle Association) and extremists in Congress and will work to enact federal legislation that will save lives." For Balter, it's the second endorsement in as many weeks she's received from a gun safety group. Giffords PAC, which was founded by former U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and her husband, Mark Kelly, endorsed Balter in the 24th district race last week. On the campaign trail, Balter has discussed the need for stricter gun laws. She supports universal background checks for gun purchases and the restoration of the 1994 assault weapons ban. She has called for the repeal of the Dickey Amendment, which prohibits the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from researching the effects of gun violence. Balter recently spoke out against a bill introduced by Katko, R-Camillus, that is designed to encourage states to adopt "red flag" laws. The laws would allow family members and police to seek extreme risk protection orders and have guns temporarily removed from an individual's possession if it's determined that they are a threat to themselves or others. But Balter believes Katko's proposal is "toothless." She has criticized other aspects of the congressman's record on guns and the support he's received from the NRA. The NRA, a leading gun rights group, has endorsed Katko in past elections and gave him an "A" rating. The endorsement is the second Balter has received this week. She was endorsed Monday by former President Barack Obama. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 4 A labor group representing state law enforcement officers has weighed in on the 50th Senate District race. The Police Benevolent Association of New York State endorsed Bob Antonacci to succeed retiring state Sen. John DeFrancisco. Antonacci, a Republican, received the union's support over Democratic candidate John Mannion. Peter Barry, president of the PBA of New York State and the University Police Officers director, said it's important to support a candidate with a history of fiscal responsibility. For the union, that candidate was Antonacci, the current Onondaga County comptroller. "Bob has a strong track record working with law enforcement officers and we're confident that he would be a good partner in the Senate allowing us to continue to provide the high level of service to the residents of and visitors to the 50th Senate District. The PBA of NYS proudly endorses Bob Antonacci," Barry added. The Police Benevolent Association of New York State represents more than 1,200 members. The organization's membership includes New York State University Police, New York State Environmental Conservation Police, New York State Park Police and New York State Forest Rangers. The PBA is the second law enforcement group to endorse Antonacci this week. On Tuesday, he received backing from the Onondaga County Deputy Sheriffs' Association. Mannion has received law enforcement support of his own. In August, he was endorsed by Auburn Police Local 195, the union representing the city's police officers. But the PBA's support is important for Antonacci. He noted that some of the union's members work in the 50th district at State University of New York campuses and state parks. "The brave men and women who work hard to keep our streets, homes and families safe are true everyday heroes willing to sacrifice everything for others," Antonacci said. "As state senator, I will not forget their selfless, courageous commitment to our communities and pledge to do all I can to help them do their jobs so they can return home at the end of every shift to their own families." Antonacci and Mannion are vying to represent the 50th district, which is considered one of the most competitive state Senate races in New York. It's an open seat for the first time since 1992, when DeFrancisco, a Republican, was first elected. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 An organization created to urge Republican legislators to push for clean energy solutions has endorsed U.S. Rep. John Katko for re-election in the 24th Congressional District race. Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions is supporting Katko, R-Camillus, against Democratic challenger Dana Balter. Katko is seeking a third term in Congress. James Dozier, executive director of Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions, said his group backed Katko for "his demonstrated leadership and support of a cleaner energy future." "America faces big challenges and it's critical that candidates address them openly and with concrete solutions during the midterm elections," Dozier explained. "When it comes to growing our economy, bolstering our national security, and preserving our climate, voters and candidates are embracing clean energy." Citizen for Responsible Energy Solutions was founded by Dozier, a Republican organizer, five years ago. Former U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte, a New Hampshire Republican, is a senior adviser to the group. The organization highlighted Katko's record of support for clean energy issues, including his membership in the House Climate Solutions Caucus, votes to protect programs within the Department of Energy and support of legislation to boost investment in nuclear energy and reduce methane emissions. Nuclear energy is an important issue for Katko, whose district is home to three nuclear power plants. He welcomed Energy Secretary Rick Perry to central New York this summer for a tour and roundtable at FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant in Oswego. In a statement, Katko said he's proud to be endorsed by Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions. "Cleaner forms of energy such as nuclear are a critical economic driver for central New York, delivering reliable, emissions-free energy to consumers across our state," he said. Katko added, "I will continue to promote policies that foster New York's clean energy portfolio and encourage the development of dependable, abundant and safe energy for years to come." It's the second time Katko has received the group's support in the 24th Congressional District race. When he campaigned for re-election in 2016, Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions endorsed him. Love 3 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 3 Mother knows best. Joanne Antonacci plays a leading role in a new television ad supporting her son, Republican state Senate candidate Bob Antonacci. The 30-second commercial, which will air on Syracuse-area broadcast and cable stations, features the Antonaccis in a kitchen. The GOP Senate hopeful is seated at a table and his mother is cooking. As Bob Antonacci begins to introduce him, Joanne interrupts. "Bobby, tell them how you saved taxpayers millions," she says, giving her son an opportunity to tout his record as Onondaga County comptroller. Joanne Antonacci interjects again when she suggests her son discuss his opposition to a pay raise for Onondaga County lawmakers. He filed a lawsuit challenging the pay hike. "It was the right thing to do," the younger Antonacci said. The ad concludes with Joanne Antonacci saying her son is "always doing the right thing." Bob Antonacci, playing the role of an embarrassed child, responds, "Mom, come on." Joanne gets the last word. "What, a mother can't brag about her son?" It's the second television commercial released by Antonacci's campaign. In his first TV spot, he sought to highlight how he would prioritize central New York if elected to the state Senate. Election Day is a little more than a month away and there are already several ads on the airwaves in central New York. Democratic candidate John Mannion released an ad of his own last week, and Fighting For Our Future, the New York State United Teachers' super political action committee, has a pair of ads running to support Mannion and oppose Antonacci. The 50th Senate District is considered a top priority for both parties. Antonacci and Mannion are running to succeed retiring state Sen. John DeFrancisco, a Republican who is stepping aside after more than 25 years of service. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways is proud to announce the second annual Carrying the Torch: Girl Scout Convention on Womens Rights. The event takes place this weekend, Oct. 6-7, in Seneca Falls, site of the first womens rights convention in 1848. The weekend is a special collaboration between GSNYPENN, the Womens Rights National Historical Park, the National Womens Hall of Fame and the Friends of the Womens Rights National Historical Park. It commemorates the 101st anniversary of womens suffrage in New York state while celebrating how girls of today carry the torch of equal rights through civic engagement. Participating in Carrying the Torch is an inspiring, empowering and educational event. It provides all girls not just Girl Scouts the opportunity to not only learn about achievements made by women in this historic and significant place, but to also hear from speakers and take part in experiences that encourage them to achieve their own goals and dreams through self-sufficiency and civic engagement. Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low believed strongly in civic engagement. This event, and the Girl Scout movement, encourages girls to be engaged, educated and involved in what is going on not only in their individual communities, but also the larger world. The convention is open to all Girl Scouts, girls and the public. Cost is $10 per person. Registration is open at gsnypenn.org/torch. The schedule is girl-led and allows girls to pick and choose which sessions and activities they wish to attend. (Some require preregistration due to seating capacity.) Admission grants access on both Saturday and Sunday to Womens Rights National Historical Park, Wesleyan Chapel, the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House, the MClintock House, the National Womens Hall of Fame, a special voter education session on Sunday and the convention on Sunday with keynote speakers. Convention speakers will focus on womens entrepreneurship and empowerment, the history of womens rights and the suffrage movement, and the Girl Scout movement. Speakers include: Jess Eckstrom, founder/CEO, Headbands of Hope (keynote speaker) Julie Dale, CEO, Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways Betty Bayer, co-president of the National Womens Hall of Fame and professor of womens studies at Hobart and William Smith Colleges Rebecca Weaver, Girl Scout alum and park ranger at Womens Rights National Historical Park "The Women Will Gather with Girl Scout Women of Distinction recipient Arlette Miller Smith, associate professor and program director of African-American studies at St. John Fisher College Admission also includes a commemorative passport, patch and bag available for pickup at on-site registration. Attendees who complete the passport can earn the 2020 Suffrage Centennial Junior Ranger badge from the park. Girls can also earn the Centennial of Womens Suffrage in New York patch by attending this event. Preregistration is required for a Declaration of Sentiments re-enactment reading on Saturday, a situational awareness and self-protection Workshop with June Worden from Syracuse Self Defense on Saturday, and a sunrise service for all faith communities led by the Rev. Leah Ntuala of First Presbyterian Church of Seneca Falls on Sunday due to venue seating. Girls Scouts can earn their official national Global Action Award during Carrying the Torch. (Preregistration is required.) This years Global Action Award focuses on the global goals for sustainable development. In September 2015, leaders from around the world agreed to work together to accomplish these 17 goals by 2030. The goals focus on ending extreme poverty, fighting inequality and injustice, and tackling climate change. To earn their award, girls work together to make a difference on these topics, which affect girls and women all over the world. To register to attend and for complete information about Carrying the Torch weekend, including overnight accommodations and local amenities, visit gsnypenn.org/torch. Were the worlds preeminent leadership development organization for girls. We believe in the power of every G.I.R.L. (go-getter, innovator, risk-taker, leader) to change the world. Girl Scouts develops girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place! Join now to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure and success. Visit gsnypenn.org, email info@gsnypenn.org or call (855) 213-8555. Jaime Alvarez is communications director for Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Jordan-Elbridge Central School District's multi-million dollar capital project that focused largely on school safety was approved by voters by a landslide Tuesday night. A total of 94 people voted in favor of the $3.8 million endeavor, with 21 votes against it. District Superintendent Jim Froio said the district was grateful to the community for supporting the project. "I'm not surprised. I knew the community would support any measures to increase the safety of students and staff," Froio said. Froio previously said the project would not impact local taxes, as the district plans to use $1 million in capital reserve funds, while the district's estimated building aid from the state is around 85 percent. The project is set to focus heavily on security, including more secure entrances, making outside visitors unable to reach student areas without encountering additional security. Teachers will also be able to initiate a school lockdown if necessary, through a code on an app. The emphasis on safety was inspired by a audit from a school security company, Armoured One, of Liverpool, in January. The company made around 40 safety recommendations for each building, Froio had said. The project will also include the reconfiguration of each building's main office, a new PA system for each building, lighting upgrades, refinishing the middle school gym's wooden floor and a backup generator in Elbridge Elementary School. Froio said the district estimates it will submit the initiative to the state education department by February 2019, with estimated state approval that December, targeting construction for May 2020. He said the district will try to lobby the Education Department to expedite the process for reviewing and approving the project, as he feels the project is fairly straightforward. Froio had previously said he was worried the schools may be vulnerable while waiting around two years for construction on the project to start. Karyl Carter, a mother of a daughter in the district, said Tuesday afternoon she supported the project in order to help children. "Anything that's going to increase security for them that's my priority, is keeping her safe," Carter said. Staff writer Kelly Rocheleau can be reached at (315) 282-2243 or kelly.rocheleau@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @KellyRocheleau. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Skaneateles High School has received national recognition in academic excellence from the U.S. Department of Education, the school announced Monday. The school was one of 349 institutions acknowledged by Education Secretary Betsy DeVos as a 2018 National Blue Ribbon School, which recognizes high academic performance and learning standards, according to a press release. The Blue Ribbon program, run by the Education Department, has recognized over 8,800 schools in 36 years. "I'm pleased to celebrate with you as your school is named a National Blue Ribbon School," DeVos said in a video message to honorees. "We recognize and honor your important work in preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives. Congratulations on your students' accomplishments and for your extraordinary commitment to meeting their unique needs." Skaneateles High School Principal Greg Santoro revealed the honor to staff and students at a gathering Monday. "The toughest job in America is educating our youth," Santoro said. "We have one of the finest faculty you could ever have and I am proud to be your principal. Know that your work, day in and day out, and what you do for our students is not only recognized here in our own house, through our local BOCES, through New York State, but now nationally. All of us are a part of one of the greatest high schools in America." DeVos and the Education Department will celebrate with 300 public schools and 49 private schools at an awards ceremony Nov. 7-8 in Washington, D.C. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 AUBURN Andrew George Tarby Jr., 70, of Auburn, passed away unexpectedly early Friday morning, Sept. 28, 2018, at his home. He was born in Auburn, the son of Alma (McGlynn) Tarby and the late Andrew G. Tarby and had been an area resident for most of his life. George, as he was affectionately known by his family and friends, was a U.S. Marine, part of the 1st BN 4th Marines, SLF Forces, Air Assault, having served our country honorably during two stints in Vietnam. He completed his basic training at Parris Island, S.C. George earned numerous medals, including the distinctive Purple Heart for his courageous efforts during the war. In his earlier years, George drove trucks for various trucking companies and also worked construction. He would later own and operate his own business, Tarbys Hydro Clean. Georges work ethic and willingness to help out someone in need is unmatched and will never be equaled by anyone. He could often be found shoveling out a neighbors driveway, clearing a path down most of Genesee Streets sidewalks, sending a flower arrangement to a friend, a delicious plate of sauerkraut or kielbasa that he prepared himself for someone that was sick. These are just a few things that show the character of a very special man with a heart of gold. One of Georges passions besides helping others was his love of flying. He had his pilots license for many years and relished any opportunity he had the time to fly. George also enjoyed an occasional Coors Light in the afternoon. He left a lasting impression on many, mostly good and if it wasnt, he didnt care. But you definitely remembered meeting him. He is survived by his three sons, Jeff, Ryan, and Andrew Tarby; mother, Alma Tarby; brother, Douglas (Alice) Tarby; grandchildren, Ryder, Michael, and Sabrina Tarby; brother-in-law, Michael Orofino; nephews, Brandon and Dustin Orofino; niece, Jessica Wilmot; niece and godchild, Brandy Tarby; several other relatives, and many close and dear friends . George was predeceased by his father, Andrew G. Tarby, a former World War II veteran, and a sister, Patricia Orofino. Calling hours are from 4 to 7 p.m. this Friday, at the Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee St., Auburn. A calling hour will also be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday morning, with services to immediately at 11 a.m. all at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Josephs Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded. His love for his country and especially his fellow veterans that have been injured in war, George would like any donations be made in his memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256 or to wounderwarriorproject.org. Please leave any online condolences to pettigrassfuneralhome.com. Semper Fi! Ill catch you in my next life on the Silver Bullet Express! LOS ANGELESCryptocurrency payment solutions are increasing in popularity among online retailers, but adoption of this new technology has had a slow start within the adult industry. In the past few months, however, things have picked up speed. The turning point came earlier this year when Pornhub announced a partnership with Verge, a cryptocurrency project focused on security and anonymity. Brazzers followed shortly thereafter, launching a never-seen-before five-year subscription to commemorate the partnership. Since then, additional cryptocurrencies have been added to the Pornhub and Brazzers networks, including Horizen (formerly ZenCash) a partnership that I directly advised on. Not surprisingly, other adult websites are catching on. In the months since the Pornhub announcement, weve seen more and more sites in the adult industry follow suit and begin accepting a widening range of cryptocurrencies. The reason behind this is that cryptocurrencies provide solutions to a number of the biggest issues facing online businesses in the adult industry, including maintaining customer privacy and dealing with chargebacks and payment delays. No Risks of a Breach of Customer Privacy Until recently, there werent a lot of private payment options for consumers looking to access adult content. Paypal links to your email address, bank transfers are documented, and credit card transactions can cause questions at home. The lack of privacy options was frustrating to consumers, most of whom value their data privacy, especially when visiting adult websites. Fortunately, cryptocurrencies provide the discreet digital payment solution that consumers have been looking for. When making a payment with Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies, customers do not have to submit financial details that will be linked to them forever. Payments can be made exposing only their wallet address, which is anonymous, and a transaction id. This allows the website or service provider to verify the payment and deliver services without exposing the customers private information. Not only will the financial details of a customers purchase not show up on their credit card bill, they wont even show up in the companys database. Thus, in the face of a website data breach, like that which hit Ashley Madison, theres no risk that customers payment records will be exposed to the public. But cryptocurrencies arent just good for customers, theyre great for websites in the industry as well. No Chargebacks to Hurt Your Balance Sheet One of the biggest expenses for websites in the industry is chargebacks. Unfortunately its very easy for a credit card user to sign up for a website service and then reverse the charge afterwards by calling their banks and claiming the charge as a fraudulent transaction. Not only does this result in a loss in subscription fees, but in many cases the website can incur penalties from the bank for the cancellation of these transactions. Cryptocurrencies, however, do not provide the ability to chargeback and the transactions cannot be reversed by the consumer. This can be a huge boost to an online provider, who might normally see a significant chunk of its revenue reversed on chargebacks. Payments Hit the Bank Instantly While credit card payments feel instant for the customer, they take a long time to reach the service providers bank account. It can take days to months for the transaction to be completed, preventing businesses from making use of that capital. Crypto transactions, on the other hand, are processed through blockchain technology, which happens almost immediately. There are no intermediaries to cause delays, and thus transactions that used to take days can be completed in a matter of seconds. This means almost instant money for the service provider. Why Hasnt Adoption Been Quicker? Despite the incredible advantages cryptocurrencies have to offer adult websites, there has been relatively slow adoption of the new technology. The main reason for this is the steep learning curve for service providers to understand what cryptocurrencies are, how to use them, and how to accept them. At its most basic level, this means learning how to create a crypto wallet and to set up an account on a cryptocurrency exchange platform. The next challenge has been the issue of price volatility. Just as most US businesses dont want to accept Euros and take on unnecessary currency risk, they dont want to accept digital currencies that can have wild price fluctuations. So until website operators understand how to exchange their cryptocurrencies for dollars rapidly and seamlessly, we wont see widespread cryptocurrency adoption. However, a number of new payment gateways, such as CoinPayments and CoinToPay, have been introduced in recent months that make it easier for online providers to accept cryptocurrencies and exchange those cryptocurrencies for fiat. These can be directly integrated into a website, essentially eliminating the need for business owners to learn how to accept or exchange cryptocurrencies. As awareness of the technology grows and as new payment providers ease the process for service providers, we will undoubtedly see many more businesses in the adult industry adopt crypto. *** Pret A Manger has pledged to list all ingredients, including allergens, on products that are freshly made in its kitchens. The move follows last weeks inquest into the death of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, the 15-year-old who died after eating a Pret baguette made with dough containing sesame, to which she was allergic. Pret does not put individual ingredient or allergen labels on products freshly prepared in shop kitchens, but has allergen signage on each fridge and at till points advising customers with allergies to speak to a manager about seeing its allergen guide. Under current regulations, there is no obligation for businesses to label allergens on foods prepared on the same premises as they are being sold. But today (3 October) Pret has said it is to change its labelling policy and will start trialling full ingredient labelling including allergens - on product packaging from next month. It said this would be rolled out to all UK shops as quickly as possible. In the meantime, the company said it would ensure in the coming weeks that: Prominent allergen warning stickers were placed on all individual freshly made products Additional allergen warning signs were displayed in shops; and Full ingredient information, including allergens, for all products was available online and in shops. Pret also said it would improve its complaints handling procedures to ensure allergy-related incidents were immediately escalated and reported on within 24 hours. Last weeks inquest heard that a Pret complaint log showed nine cases of sesame-related allergy incidents between 17 July 2015 and 29 June 2016. Four of these had led to customers seeking hospital treatment, while another went to a medical centre. I want to say again how deeply sorry we are for the loss of Natasha, said Pret chief executive Clive Schlee today. I said we would learn from this tragedy and ensure meaningful changes happen. I hope these measures set us on course to drive change in the industry so people with allergies are as protected and informed as possible. Nothing is more important to Pret right now. Coroner Dr Sean Cummings, who recorded a narrative conclusion at the inquest, said at the time that he would write to environment secretary Michael Gove, questioning allergen food labelling regulations. Advertising Watchdogs have upheld complaints over a Costa radio ad, which suggested a bacon roll was a better breakfast choice than an avocado. The advert, aired on 27 June this year, featured a voice-over stating: Oh, theres a great deal on ripen-at-home avocados. Sure, theyll be hard as rock for the first 18 days, three hours and 20 minutes, then theyll be ready to eat, for about 10 minutes, then theyll go off. For a better deal, head to Costa Coffee and grab a delicious, piping hot bacon roll or egg muffin for just 2 when you buy any medio or massimo hot drink or flat white before 11am. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) received two complaints challenging whether the ad discouraged the selection of fresh fruit. Although it did consider that the ad was light-hearted, the ASA ruled that it nevertheless suggested avocados were a poor breakfast choice, and that a bacon roll or egg muffin would be a better alternative. In doing so, the ASA said it discouraged the selection of avocados and breached the UK Code of Broadcast Advertising. The code states that comparisons between foods must not discourage the selection of options such as fresh fruit and fresh vegetables. In its defence, Costa said it was not suggesting listeners make a choice between two breakfast items, but highlighted the coffee chain had a promotional breakfast offer. Radiocentre, the industry body for commercial radio, said it felt the ad was not in breach of the Code because it was unlikely that the majority of consumers would regard it as a serious comparison between bacon rolls or egg muffins and avocados. The ASA said the ad must not be broadcast again in its current form, and warned Costa to ensure future ads did not condone or encourage poor nutritional habits. Government programs such as welfare and other social means-tested programs characterize very well the government's general policy towards poverty: Make individuals "comfortable" in their poverty rather than incentivize them to become self-sufficient. Those dependent on government have little incentive to vote against its interests; those dependent on government have little incentive to vote for fiscal conservatism and for constitutional conservatism.The premise of this article is three-fold:(1) To make the argument that government entitlement and other social welfare policies (means-tested programs), rather than serving "the general welfare" and helping to raise people out of poverty, in fact are really just increasingly making individuals "more comfortable" in their poverty, are increasingly relieving them of the "burden" of having to provide for themselves and their families, and in their sum, are creating institutionalized dependency. We see it already, and have seen it for many years now - welfare has become a way of life and not just a temporary program of aid and assistance; even worse, it has become a generational way of life.(2) Dependency, and certainly institutionalized dependency, by its very nature, puts individuals completely at odds with the notion of freedom. An individual cannot be free and dependent on government at the same time. As more become dependent on government, there is no other course than the destruction of our republic and the transformation to socialism. Socialism is the death blow to individual liberty. The rights of the individual, the property of the individual, the work and production of the individual, becomes subject to the needs and best interests of the collective. Socialism is the death blow to the great American experiment.(3) Entitlement Programs, like block grants to the States (per "contact agreements"), are Unconstitutional.As the title of this article suggests, I intend to address the constitutionality of Welfare and other means-tested social programs. The United States was once a country that prided itself on the ambition, creativity, ingenuity, energy, and production of the American people. Americans worked hard; they provided for themselves and their families. Without the lure of a safety-net, people became creative and ambitious and did whatever they could to make a living and provide for themselves and their family. With people like that, with social pressure like that, is it any wonder that our country was so successful and created such profound wealth? Is it any wonder that people were able to climb the social ladder so quickly and children and grandchildren became more successful than their parents? Is it any wonder why the United States became such an attractive magnet for the impoverished and downtrodden of the world?But after the era of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the United States slowly and steadily became a welfare state, with Lyndon B. Johnson taking the most credit for what our country has become. In 1964, with the Civil Rights bill looming, Johnson said to his political cronies: "These Negroes, they're getting pretty uppity these days and that's a problem for us since they've got something now they never had before, the political pull to back up their uppityness. Now we've got to do something about this, we've got to give them a little something, just enough to quiet them down, not enough to make a difference."Well, it did make quite a difference. Rather than help pull African-Americans out of poverty, welfare often doomed them to institutionalized poverty. Rather than help African-Americans overcome the prejudices, discriminations, and actions that held them back in the past, welfare was responsible for the greatest change in community dynamics which would have unfortunate consequences for them - it destroyed the black family. The impact of welfare policies on marriage and family have been dramatic: Out-of-wedlock birthrates have skyrocketed among all demographic groups in the US but most notably among African Americans. In the mid-1960s, the out-of-wedlock birth rate was scarcely 3% for whites, 7.7% for Americans overall, and 24.5% among blacks. By 1976, those figures had risen to nearly 10% for whites, 24.7% for Americans as a whole, and 50.3% for blacks specifically. And today, the numbers stand at 29% for whites, 41% for the nation overall, and 73% for blacks. In other words, thanks to the welfare state, the entire country is moving rapidly in the wrong direction, but blacks in particular have reached a point of veritable catastrophe.Is welfare constitutional?? I'll eventually get to that question.First of all, where does the supposed constitutional authority come from to redistribute wealth in the name of "welfare" or "security"? The usual answer is the "General Welfare" clause of the Constitution. In the opening paragraph of Article I, Section 8 (which delegates to Congress the powers it is legally authorized to exercise), we find the "General Welfare" Clause. We have seen that term previously, of course - in the Preamble to the Constitution. In that opening paragraph of Article I, Section 8, Congress is granted power to tax and spend for the "general welfare of the United States." From early in our history there were arguments about what sort of spending was truly for the general welfare. Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton, for instance, argued in 1791 that bounties paid to innovative new manufacturing concerns would qualify as spending for the general welfare. But Hamilton understood that the appropriations had to meet a standard of uniformity throughout the Union. And for decades, Congress and various presidential administrations (mostly Republican) considered whether various "internal improvement" projects could legally constitute spending "for the general welfare."The government is not one of unlimited powers. We all know this. The US Constitution, as ratified by the individual states, created a common government of expressly-delegated powers which taken together, provide for some common essential functions (like safety and security, speaking with "one voice" in dealing with foreign nations and the Indian tribes, ensuring that commerce is made "regular," and providing a uniform system of currency). Its powers were not intended to reach inside the state to regulate or affect the conduct of its citizens.And yet the Constitution contains a clause that references "the General Welfare." It's called the "General Welfare Clause" and its purpose means one thing to big government folks and another to those who hold true to the historical view of the Constitution.This clause is a special friend of big-government politicians and intellectuals, and an enemy of limited-government folks. It is the catch-all phrase by which the federal government claims the authority to enact so much of its unconstitutional legislation and to carry out so much unconstitutional taxing and spending.When the federal government wishes to create and expand welfare programs, to meddle in education, to provide grants for certain groups of individuals to attend college, to assist women in aborting their babies, to establish a national healthcare system, to serve the enormous immigration population (including illegals), to provide financial support for refugees, or to coerce the states to increase their drinking age or lower their speed limit, progressives cite the "General Welfare" clause for constitutional authority.Constitutional conservatives, on the other hand, push back with the argument that the General Welfare Clause is NOT, in fact a grant of power or source of authority.Which is the correct view? And why is it so important?Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution lists the delegated functions of the federal legislative branch (Congress): Its opening paragraph includes the General Welfare Clause:The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defense and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States;To borrow Money on the credit of the United States;To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several states, and with the Indian Tribes;To establish an uniform Rule of Naturalization, and uniform Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies throughout the United States;To coin Money, regulate the Value thereof, and of foreign Coin, and fix the Standard of Weights and Measures;To provide for the Punishment of counterfeiting the Securities and current Coin of the United States;To establish Post Offices and post Roads;To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries;To constitute Tribunals inferior to the supreme Court;To define and punish Piracies and Felonies committed on the high Seas, and Offences against the Law of Nations;To declare War, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal, and make Rules concerning Captures on Land and Water;To raise and support Armies, but no Appropriation of Money to that Use shall be for a longer Term than two Years;To provide and maintain a Navy;To make Rules for the Government and Regulation of the land and naval Forces;To provide for calling forth the Militia to execute the Laws of the Union, suppress Insurrections and repel Invasions;To provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining, the Militia, and for governing such Part of them as may be employed in the Service of the United States, reserving to the States respectively, the Appointment of the Officers, and the Authority of training the Militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress;To exercise exclusive Legislation in all Cases whatsoever, over such District (not exceeding ten Miles square) as may, by Cession of particular States, and the Acceptance of Congress, become the Seat of the Government of the United States, and to exercise like Authority over all Places purchased by the Consent of the Legislature of the State in which the Same shall be, for the Erection of Forts, Magazines, Arsenals, dock-Yards, and other needful Buildings; -AndTo make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof.[This last provision is called the "Necessary & Proper" Clause; it is typical language included in contracts at the time making clear that the party delegated a particular function or functions can take the "necessary" steps to carry out that function or those functions.]The federal government spends money, through grants, tuition, other types of "assistance," etc, to do things it cannot otherwise accomplish through actual constitutional authority. For example, the federal government provides funding to States to build roads, bridges, train tracks, airports, electric grids, libraries, swimming pools, housing, and other infrastructure; it provides funding to educate our children and to require public schools to implement affirmative action and other special programs for minorities and for students with disabilities; it provides funding for pre-school and day care; it provides funding to re-train the unemployed; it provides funding for relief aid; it provides funding for state and local law enforcement; it provides funding for Medicaid, food stamps, free lunch programs, and other social services; it provides funding to aid illegals; and it provides funding to individuals for college tuition, tuition remission, as scholarship awards, for housing, etc.Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1 grants the US government the power to raise and spend money. Is that power limited? Or is it unqualified and unlimited? We all know the government's view.The government may believe it is justified under the General Welfare Clause, for example, to provide healthcare for the elderly (or for everyone), to provide old-age pension, to fund public health projects; to invest in and conduct basic research; to provide subsidies for agriculture; to build libraries, and even to provide emergency aid for natural disasters. But under what theory of a "limited government" is Congress justified in taxing and spending for such purposes as building roads, bridges, train tracks, airports, electric grids, libraries, swimming pools, and housing, educating our children, providing pre-school and day care; re-training the unemployed, and bailing out big banks and big industry (such as the auto industry)? The answer is that according to the delegated powers vested in Congress in Article I, Section 8, none of those responsibilities is allowed. "The powers not delegated to the States, nor prohibited to them, are reserved to the States and to the People." Then Tenth Amendment tells us that all of these objects rightfully belong to the States. While the government assumes the authority to tax and spend for these objects from the General Welfare Clause, it is the Tenth Amendment that supersedes.The amount spent on such programs is staggering:First of all, the US Treasury divides all federal spending into three groups: mandatory spending, discretionary spending and interest on debt. Mandatory and discretionary spending account for more than ninety percent of all federal spending, and pay for all of the government services and programs on which many rely. Federal spending for 2015 was broken down as follows: Mandatory spending at 64.4%, Discretionary spending at 29.3%, and Interest on the debt at 6.03%.Discretionary spending refers to the portion of the budget that is decided by Congress through the annual appropriations process each year. These spending levels are set each year by Congress. In fiscal year 2015, $1.1 trillion out of a total budget of $3.8 trillion was spent on discretionary spending. By far, the biggest category of discretionary spending is spending on the Pentagon and related military programs. Examples of other well-known programs paid for by discretionary spending include the early childhood education program Head Start (included in Housing & Community), Title I grants to disadvantaged schools and Pell grants for low-income college students (Education), other school funding, food assistance for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), training and placement for unemployed people provided by Workforce Investment Boards (in Social Security, Unemployment and Labor), and scientific research through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Science Foundation (NSF), among many others. FeinSen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) announced Sunday that he plans a "full scale" investigation into who among his Democratic colleagues leaked Dr. Christine Blasey Ford's letter, accusing Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexual assault, to the Washington Post.Graham appeared on ABC News' "This Week" to discuss Thursday's Senate Judiciary Committee hearings, and doubled down on harsh comments he made during his opportunity to question Kavanaugh, accusing Democrats of malfeasance, and implying that Dr. Ford was railroaded by operatives."We're going to do a wholesale, full scale investigation of what I think was a despicable process to deter it from happening again," Graham said."The FBI will do a supplemental background investigation, then I'm going to call for an investigation of what happened in this committee. Who betrayed Dr. Ford's trust?" he continued. "Who in Feinstein's office recommended Katz as a lawyer? Why did Ms. Ford not know that the committee was willing to go to California?"Graham was referencing several odd statements made during her testimony Thursday.Although Senate Judiciary Committee aides offered several options to Dr. Ford, allowing her to testify under oath near her home in California or in private, Dr. Ford seemed at a loss when asked why she chose to testify in D.C. in front of cameras. It seemed that Dr. Ford's attorneys hadn't told her she had a choice.During her comments during Brett Kavanaugh's testimony, Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) indicated that she did not reveal Dr. Ford's letter, which listed out her allegations, to The Washington Post or The Intercept, and insisted that no one on her staff could have been responsible for the leak.Graham is expected to follow through on his threats. Rachel Mitchell, the prosecutor who questioned Christine Blasey Ford last week during a hearing in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote a five-page memo that was released on Sunday that outlines why she would not bring criminal charges against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh.Mitchell's memo notes nine significant problems with Ford's testimony and underscores that her case is "even weaker" than a "he said, she said" case.Mitchell states.Here are the nine problems outlined in Mitchell's memo:In a July 6 text to the Washington Post, she said it happened in the "mid 1980s."In her July 30 letter to Senator Feinstein, she said it happened in the "early 80s."Her August 7 statement to the polygrapher said that it happened one "high school summer in early 80's," but she crossed out the word "early" for reasons she did not explain.A September 16 Washington Post article reported that Dr. Ford said it happened in the "summer of 1982."Similarly, the September 16 article reported that notes from an individual therapy session in 2013 show her describing the assault as occurring in her "late teens." But she told the Post and the Committee that she was 15 when the assault allegedly occurred. She has not turned over her therapy records for the Committee to review.While it is common for victims to be uncertain about dates, Dr. Ford failed to explain how she was suddenly able to narrow the timeframe to a particular season and particular yearNo name was given in her 2012 marriage therapy notes.No name was given in her 2013 individual therapy notes.Dr. Ford's husband claims to recall that she identified Judge Kavanaugh by name in 2012. At that point, Judge Kavanaugh's name was widely reported in the press as a potential Supreme Court nominee if Governor Romney won the presidential election.In any event, it took Dr. Ford over thirty years to name her assailant. Delayed disclosure of abuse is common so this is not dispositive.Dr. Ford testified that she told her husband about a "sexual assault" before they were married.But she told the Washington Post that she informed her husband that she was the victim of "physical abuse" at the beginning of their marriage.She testified that, both times, she was referring to the same incident.She does not remember who invited her to the party or how she heard about it.She does not remember how she got to the party.She does not remember in what house the assault allegedly took place or where that house was located with any specificity.Perhaps most importantly, she does not remember how she got from the party back to her house.Her inability to remember this detail raises significant questions.She told the Washington Post that the party took place near the Columbia Country Club. The Club is more than 7 miles from her childhood home as the crow flies, and she testified that it was a roughly 20-minute drive from her childhood home.She also agreed for the first time in her testimony that she was driven somewhere that night, either to the party or from the party or both.Dr. Ford was able to describe hiding in the bathroom, locking the door, and subsequently exiting the house. She also described wanting to make sure that she did not look like she had been attacked.But she has no memory of who drove her or when. Nor has anyone come forward to identify him or herself as the driver.Given that this all took place before cell phones, arranging a ride home would not have been easy. Indeed, she stated that she ran out of the house after coming downstairs and did not state that she made a phone call from the house before she did, or that she called anyone else thereafter.She does, however, remember small, distinct details from the party unrelated to the assault. For example, she testified that she had exactly one beer at the party and was taking no medication at the time of the alleged assault.Dr. Ford has named three people other than Judge Kavanaugh who attended the party- Mark Judge, Patrick "PJ" Smyth, and her lifelong friend Leland Keyser (nee Ingham). Dr. Ford testified to the Committee that another boy attended the party, but that she could not remember his name. No others have come forward.All three named eyewitnesses have submitted statements to the Committee denying any memory of the party whatsoever. Most relevantly, in her first statement to the Committee, Ms. Keyser stated through counsel that, "[s]imply put, Ms. Keyser does not know Mr. Kavanaugh and she has no recollection of ever being at a party or gathering where he was present, with, or without, Dr. Ford." In a subsequent statement to the Committee through counsel, Ms. Keyser said that "the simple and unchangeable truth is that she is unable to corroborate [Dr. Ford's allegations] because she has no recollection of the incident in question."Moreover, Dr. Ford testified that her friend Leland, apparently the only other girl at the party, did not follow up with Dr. Ford after the party to ask why she had suddenly disappeared.According to her letter to Senator Feinstein, Dr. Ford heard Judge Kavanaugh and Mark Judge talking to other partygoers downstairs while she was hiding in the bathroom after the alleged assault. But according to her testimony, she could not hear them talking to anyone.In her letter, she stated, "I locked the door behind me. Both loudly stumbled down the stairwell, at which point other persons at the house were talking with them."Kavanaugh or Mark Judge turned up the music in the bedroom so that the people downstairs could not hear her scream. She testified that, after the incident, she ran into the bathroom, locked the door, and heard them going downstairs. But she maintained that she could not hear their conversation with others when they got downstairs. Instead, she testified that she "assum[ed]" a conversation took place.Her account of who was at the party has been inconsistent.According to The Washington Post's account of her therapy notes, there were four boys in the bedroom in which she was assaulted.She told the Washington Post that the notes were erroneous because there were four boys at the party, but only two in the bedroom.In her letter to Senator Feinstein, she said "me and 4 others" were present at the party.In her testimony, she said there were four boys in addition to Leland Keyser and herself. She could not remember the name of the fourth boy, and no one has come forward.Dr. Ford listed Patrick "PJ" Smyth as a "bystander" in her statement to the polygrapher and in her July 6 text to the Washington Post, although she testified that it was inaccurate to call him a bystander. She did not list Leland Keyser even though they are good friends. Leland Keyser's presence should have been more memorable than PJ Smyth's.Dr. Ford struggled to remember her interactions with the Washington Post.Dr. Ford could not remember if she showed a full or partial set of therapy notes to the Washington Post reporter.She does not remember whether she showed the Post reporter the therapist's notes or her own summary of those notes. The Washington Post article said that "portions" of her "therapist's notes" were "provided by Ford and reviewed by" the Post. But in her testimony, Dr. Ford could not recall whether she summarized the notes for the reporter or showed her the actual records.She does not remember if she actually had a copy of the notes when she texted the Washington Post WhatsApp account on July 6.Dr. Ford said in her first WhatsApp message to the Post that she "ha[d] therapy notes talking about" the incident when she contacted the Post's tipline. She testified that she had reviewed her therapy notes before contacting the Post to determine whether the mentioned anything about the alleged incident, but could not remember if she had a copy of those notes, as she said in her WhatsApp message, or merely reviewed them in her therapist's office.Dr. Ford refused to provide any of her therapy notes to the Committee.Dr. Ford's explanation of why she disclosed her allegations the way she did raises questions.She claimed originally that she wished for her story to remain confidential, but the person operating the tipline at the Washington Post was the first person other than her therapist or husband to whom she disclosed the identity of her alleged attacker. She testified that she had a "sense of urgency to relay the information to the Senate and the president." She did not contact the Senate, however, because she claims she "did not know how to do that." She does not explain why she knew how to contact her Congresswoman but not her Senator.Dr. Ford could not remember if she was being audio- or video-recorded when she took the polygraph. And she could not remember whether the polygraph occurred the same day as her grandmother's funeral or the day after her grandmother's funeral.It would also have been inappropriate to administer a polygraph to someone who was grieving.She maintains that she suffers from anxiety, claustrophobia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).The date of the hearing was delayed because the Committee was informed that her symptoms prevent her from flying. But she agreed during her testimony that she flies "fairly frequently for [her] hobbies and ... work." She flies to the mid-Atlantic at least once a year to visit her family. She has flown to Hawaii, French Polynesia, and Costa Rica. She also flew to Washington, D.C. for the hearing.Note too that her attorneys refused a private hearing or interview. Dr. Ford testified that she was not "clear" on whether investigators were willing to travel to California to interview her. It therefore is not clear that her attorneys ever communicated Chairman Grassley's offer to send investigators to meet her in California or wherever she wanted to meet to conduct the interview.She alleges that she struggled academically in college, but she has never made any similar claim about her last two years of high school.It is significant that she used the word "contributed" when she described the psychological impact of the incident to the Washington Post. Use of the word "contributed" rather than "caused" suggests that other life events may have contributed to her symptoms. And when questioned on that point, she said that she could think of "nothing as striking as" the alleged assault.9. The activities of congressional Democrats and Dr. Ford's attorneys likely affected Dr. Ford's account UNC President Margaret Spellings at her offices in Chapel Hill. (CJ Photo by Don Carrington) Fewer than 20 percent of North Carolinians know about major tuition cuts at three state universities, but leaders of the University of North Carolina System are working to change that.Elizabeth City State University, UNC Pembroke, and Western Carolina University, under a program called NC Promise, now offer tuition of $500 per semester to in-state students. Out-of-state students will pay reduced tuition of $2,500 per semester.UNC launched a campaign, " We Promise ," Oct. 1 to publicize the program. The campaign also advertises UNC's fixed tuition plan, which guarantees tuition will stay the same over four years at any UNC school.State lawmakers enacted the program in 2016, investing $51 million to improve enrollment at some of North Carolina's Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Critics protested the law, citing concerns over potential revenue losses. Only ECSU chose to participate.The General Assembly hasn't put a sunset date on the program, and there's plenty of support for NC Promise - even if the legislature's majority switches from Republican to Democrat after the 2018 midterm elections, UNC President Margaret Spellings told Carolina Journal."I can't find anyone who doesn't think college should be more affordable," Spellings said. "Of course, once you start providing a benefit like this people are drawn to it. I'm confident the legislature will see the merit of the policy they've put in place and will continue to fund it."The cuts only apply to tuition. Still, slashing costs allows students to use financial aid for other expenses such as room and board, fees, and books, Spellings said.Enrollment is climbing at all three universities even though the public is largely unaware of NC Promise, data from UNC show.Undergrad transfer rates saw the largest spike, with ECSU at a 57 percent increase over 2017, data from UNC show. UNCP saw a 56 percent bump in the same category, and WCU scored a 40 percent increase.First-year enrollment jumped 20 percent at ECSU and UNCP, and just more than 10 percent at WCU since 2017. Total undergrad enrollment at ECSU, UNCP, and WCU shot up 19 percent, 14 percent, and 6.6 percent, respectively.WCU doesn't attribute growth to NC Promise, NPR reported in September.The school has seen constant growth over the past decade - mostly due to engineering and anthropology programs, university officials told NPR.But ECSU, an HBCU with a total enrollment of about 1,300, is uniquely set to benefit from the program. The university hit rough turf between 2010 and 2016, when enrollment plunged 59 percent. Budget cuts and leadership turnover have plagued the university.Today, NC Promise has driven ECSU enrollment to a five-year high, officials said in a press release. The 2018 freshman class "includes the largest number of students enrolled in the honors program in ECSU history."UNC will gather data on participating students, looking for ways to support graduates and improve the program. Enrollment and transfer rates are encouraging, but UNC must do more to push the program among state residents, Spellings said."People don't know about it. We've done some polling ... and only 14 percent of the people in the state even know about NC Promise, and even with that we've had this good take-up.Things like this take time to really germinate. But by gosh ... a college degree is affordable in our state - with three really good options." A resident of Topsail Beach protects his home in the hours before Hurricane Florence hit in September. (CJ photo by Don Carrington) State lawmakers told tales of destruction of and struggles in hurricane-battered communities before unanimously approving $56.5 million spread over two emergency response bills.Debate was muted as members voted on the bipartisan measures, which House and Senate appropriations subcommittees approved earlier Tuesday, Oct. 2. With schools and roads still closed, residents homeless, businesses inoperable, and public health at risk, providing immediate assistance overshadowed election season politics.said state Rep. Brenden Jones, R-Columbus, encouraging passage of the bills during House debate.House Bill 4 and Senate Bill 2 addressed issues ranging from school pay and calendars to community relief programs and emergency election measures.Tuesday's Hurricane Florence relief session marked the third special session of 2018. Lawmakers adjourned after passing the two bills. They had been set to return Oct. 9, but pushed the date to Oct. 15."We still have over 100,000 students who are not in school," State Superintendent of Public Instruction Mark Johnson told the appropriations committees. More than 1.2 million students missed some school days due to the hurricane. Initial estimates suggest damage to school property was three times the loss from 2016's Hurricane Matthew.The legislative action is "the first step in a very long road to recovery," Johnson said.School teachers and staff have lost their clothing and school supplies, he said. They have lost their shelters and homes.State Budget Director Charlie Perusse said hundreds of state emergency management and FEMA personnel are conducting damage assessments. Gov. Roy Cooper may announce his recovery plan within a couple of weeks.State Sen. Mike Lee, R-New Hanover, and other lawmakers acknowledged the bills don't address the myriad problems residents face. Hurricane-relief measures may occupy the General Assembly deep into the 2019 session, Lee said.State Rep. Nelson Dollar, R-Wake, chief budget writer in the House, said under H.B. 4 the $56.5 million in emergency response funding - considered a down payment for a much larger tab - would be transferred from the state's Rainy Day Fund to a newly created Hurricane Florence Disaster Recovery Fund.The Office of State Budget and Management or another state agency determined by the governor would administer the money as a special account. State and federal relief and recovery appropriations would be budgeted through that fund.The bill appropriates $6.5 million to the Department of Public Instruction to supplement lost compensation for school lunch employees. They are paid through national school lunch and breakfast programs that rely on school meal receipts or federal funds. The money isn't available when school isn't in session.The other $50 million provides a state match for federal disaster assistance programs in counties that are part of a presidential major disaster declaration.Money would be used to combat large populations of floodwater mosquitoes and to distribute information on dealing with the infestation.Division of Motor Vehicles fees would be waived under the bill for duplicate driver's licenses or identification cards, applications for certificates of title, registration plate replacements, applications for duplicate registration cards, and late payments of a motor vehicle registration renewal fee.The bill addresses disruptions to activities related to the Nov. 6 general election.It extends the voter registration deadline by three days in counties under federal disaster declarations to Oct. 15 and same-day registration to the county board of elections to Oct. 20. Same-day registration is available during early voting.County boards of elections can replace hurricane-damaged polling places and early voting sites by unanimous board votes. New one-stop absentee voting sites can replace hurricane-damaged locations.The bill requires the Bipartisan State Board of Elections and Ethics Enforcement and county boards to inform voters of changes, and their options to register and vote.S.B. 2 allows school districts in presidentially declared disaster counties to designate up to 20 school days, or the equivalent hours of instructional time, as completed. Districts could opt to make up any number of instructional days or hours missed.Teachers and staff would be paid the same as if they had worked scheduled instructional days during September and October.School districts not under a federal disaster declaration must make up either the first two instructional days missed, or enough class time to complete 185 instructional days, whichever is lower.The bills were sent to Cooper, who is expected to sign them quickly. Stay home when sick until fever-free for at least 24 hours Wash hands frequently, preferably with soap and water Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then discard the tissue promptly A 2001 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2001 news@dhhs.nc.gov (919) 855-4840 RALEIGH - With flu season's arrival, health officials with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services are encouraging residents to protect themselves, their families and other people around them by getting vaccinated against the flu.said State Health Director and DHHS Chief Medical Officer Elizabeth Tilson, M.D., MPH.During the 2017-18 flu season, 391 flu deaths were reported in North Carolina, the most reported during a flu season since adult flu deaths became reportable in the state in 2009. Of those 391 deaths, 290 were people age 65 and older and seven were children under the age of 18.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccination against the flu for everyone 6 months and older with any licensed, age-appropriate flu vaccine. Vaccination against the flu can make illness milder and reduce the risk of more serious outcomes, making it especially important for those at higher risk of complications, such as people over 65, children younger than 5, pregnant women and those with certain medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease or obesity. study published in the Journal of Pediatrics last year showed that flu vaccination significantly reduced a child's risk of dying from the flu. The study, which looked at data from four flu seasons from 2010-2014, found that flu vaccination reduced the risk of flu-associated death by half among children with underlying, high-risk medical conditions and by nearly two-thirds among healthy children.Flu vaccinations are available at hospitals, pharmacies, private medical offices, some federally qualified health care centers and local health departments.In North Carolina, flu infections are most common from late fall to early spring with activity usually peaking in January or February. The following precautions should be taken to protect against the spread of flu and other viruses:nyone who thinks they have the flu should contact their doctor right away to see if they need treatment with a prescription antiviral drug, such as Tamiflu. Early treatment with an antiviral drug can help prevent flu infections from becoming more serious. Treatment with a prescription antiviral drug is especially important for hospitalized patients, people with severe flu illness and those who are at high risk of serious flu complications based on their age or health.Weekly updates on flu surveillance data will be posted online beginning Oct. 11 at www.flu.nc.gov . More information about flu is available online through the Division of Public Health and from the CDC at www.cdc.gov/flu NC Department of Health and Human Services Amazon is eliminating monthly bonuses and stock awards for warehouse workers and other hourly employees, apparently to help pay for raises. The internet retail giant pledged earlier this week to raise pay to at least $15 an hour. Bloomberg spoke to sources familiar with Amazon's pay policies who say that before this week's much-publicized minimum pay increase, workers used to be eligible for monthly bonuses that might add up to hundreds of dollars each month, and they could receive potentially valuable stock awards. Sure would be interesting if the workers of Amazon.com decided to unionize. From Bloomberg: The company informed those employees Wednesday that it's eliminating both of those compensation categories to help pay for the raises, the people said. Amazon received plaudits when it announced Monday that the company would raise its minimum pay. The pay increase warded off criticism from politicians and activists, and put the company in a good position to recruit temporary workers for the important holiday shopping season. Even after the elimination of bonuses and stock awards, hourly operations and customer-service workers will see their total compensation increase, the company said in a statement. "In addition, because it's no longer incentive-based, the compensation will be more immediate and predictable," Amazon said. Workers whose pay was already above $15 per hour will get hourly raises of $1, according to two people familiar with the matter who asked not to be identified discussing the company's compensation practices. Some long-time workers expressed frustration that their raises are small compared with newly hired workers who will see hourly pay bumps of as much as 40 percent. And it's still not clear if the raise policy applies to contractors. The new $15 pay minimum will apply to temps; it's not clear whether that covers contractors and subcontractors. Ontario's "A Plan for Fair Workplaces and Better Jobs" (AKA Bill 148) legislates leave for domestic abuse survivors, provides for 10 days of paid emergency leave, three weeks paid vacation after five years' employment, and a ban on employers requiring their employees to wear high heels. The Retail Council of Canada and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce have joined forces to lobby Ontario premier Doug Ford (previously), a laughable trumplefuck elected on promises to lower the cost of beer to $1 and to eliminate mentions of homosexuality from the provincial sex-ed curriculum (his dead brother, Rob, disgraced the province when, as Mayor of Toronto, he embarked on a series of drug-fueled, racist, misogynist escapades). Ontario businesses are riding high, enjoying record profits and luxuriating in the recent news that Ford had killed the province's $15 minimum wage. The previous rules only allowed workers to take five paid days. As part of Bill 148, employees or their children facing or experiencing violence can take an additional five days of paid leave on top of the previous five, and up to 15 weeks of unpaid leave. The Retail Council of Canada is calling on Ford to cancel these changes and roll-back Bill 148. In a CBC article, they said the protections "were ill-considered, harmful to business". The Ontario Chamber of Commerce complained the government "jammed a bunch of things into a bill that are causing significant problems". Ontario Business Lobby Calls Additional Domestic Abuse Leave, Other Rules "Harmful to Business", Begs Ford to Repeal It [North 49] (via Reddit) In 1897, shortly after Zona Shue was found dead in her West Virginia home, her mother went to the county prosecutor with a bizarre story. She said that her daughter had been murdered and that her ghost had revealed the killer's identity. In this week's episode of the Futility Closet podcast we'll tell the story of the Greenbriar Ghost, one of the strangest courtroom dramas of the 19th century. We'll also consider whether cats are controlling us and puzzle over a delightful oblivion. Show notes Please support us on Patreon! The announcement from a new genetic technology had successfully eradicated a carefully contained population of Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes grabbed headlines last week across the world. It not only indicated an incredible piece of science. It also opened a Pandora's box of complicated ethical questions. The technology works by creating a disruption to a particular gene found in the sex cells of mosquitoes. By manipulating something called the "doublesex" gene, the researchers were able to ensure a stream of female descendents possessing a biological mix of both male and female mosquito parts. These "intersex" mosquitoes are both genetically and phenotypically revolutionary. Christopher Preston is the author of "The Synthetic Age: Outdesigning Evolution, Resurrecting Species, and Reengineering Our World" (MIT Press 2018). He is a professor of Philosophy and a Research Fellow in the Mansfield Center's Program on Ethics and Public Affairs at the University of Montana. Unable to lay eggs and incapable of sucking blood, these intentionally altered females are not only much less pesky than your average mosquito. They are also wired to ensure a population crash. The genetic tool the scientists employed, known as a gene drive, permits this intersex trait to be "driven" in a few short generations through any breeding population of the species into which it is inserted. In their experiments, the scientists created a population unable to reproduce after 7 to 11 life cycles. This powerful tool effectively permits extinction by design. Anopheles gambiae is one of more than 3,000 species of mosquito worldwide. It is important because it is one of three that are especially deadly to humans. This lethal triumvirate are responsible for spreading malaria, yellow fever, dengue, encephalitis, zika, West Nile virus, and filariasis across vulnerable human populations. Malaria alone, transmitted by a parasite that lives in the gut of the Anopheles species, infected 216 million people across 91 countries in 2016. It killed around 445,000 of them. Most of these deaths were in sub-Saharan Africa and most of these victims were children under the age of five. Other efforts to limit the spread of malaria such as spraying chemicals, using bed nets, and making available anti-malarial drugs have so far proven inadequate. With climate change predicted to increase the geographical range of several mosquito species, a global public health crises of simply staggering proportions may be set to get worse. If this is the case, why are some people hesitant about the technology? Nnimmo Bassey of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation in Nigeria is concerned about Africa becoming a "testing ground for a technology that has not been proven." There is no airtight guarantee about the safety of gene drives. An intervention into an ecosystem intended to extinguish a species raises a number of precautionary red flags. Ecosystems are complex with the various dependencies between species are not completely understood. New, potentially more voracious species could fill the gaps left by those that have been removed. In the midst of any engineered changes, evolution will continue. While the particular modification the Imperial College scientists made to the mosquito was chosen specifically to minimize the possibility of a natural resistance evolving, the potential for movement and mutation of genes between populations makes people nervous. Even the research scientists themselves appreciate that wild environments don't behave as predictably as laboratory ones. Social as well as scientific unease is also a factor. Colonial histories raise suspicions when powerful but risky technologies developed within western nations find their initial deployments in Africa. Africans might ask whether enough is being done on other fronts in the battle against malaria. With the human stakes so high, it is easy to think that the ethical equation is made up only of the balance between the risks and benefits for humanity. Indeed, this is likely to be the dominant part of the moral calculus. Also in the picture, however, are questions about the kind world humans might be on the point of creating. Some will question whether it is appropriate for Homo sapiens to adopt a role in which it can command the complete elimination of another species. One of the authors of the study, Andrea Crisanti, thinks the answer to this question is"Absolutely, yes." He views the malaria-carrying mosquito as a pathogen. As a pathogen, he says, "we have the right to eliminate it." Others think there is more here to ponder. Is it desirable for humans, rather than evolutionary forces, to determine both the species composition and the genetic make-up of the organisms that surround us? As technologies reach deeper into the surrounding world and become more precise, is it morally acceptable for humans to drive engineered changes through systems previously determined by ancient forces lying beyond our species' reach? To some extent this means the transformation of nature into artifact. Such a future would mark a new period in earth's history in which one species takes up a novel role as planetary manager and designer. This species would do this consciously, deliberately, and in the case of gene drives quite dramatically. Such a tightly engineered future may be inevitable. It may, in many ways, also be highly desirable. What it shouldn't be is a future we find ourselves immersed in without the chance to debate it, to reflect on it, and to fully understand the arguments both in its favor and against it. This is a discussion that is only just beginning. In the meantime, hundreds of thousands of children continue to die of malaria. - Kanye is coming to Africa people, clear your schedules - He is coming to connect to his 'roots' and clear his mind so that he can work on music - The man has been struggling and he has even pushed his album release date forward PAY ATTENTION: Click 'See First' under 'Following' tab to see Briefly news on your news feed. Kanye West has decided to spend some time in Africa to clear his head and work on some music. The motherland has that special magic thats good for rejuvenating your soul. His latest album Yandhi has been held back to November 23, reported Times Live. Kanye is hoping to get in touch with himself in Africa and slay the rest of the album. He has been struggling. Briefly.co.za learnt that Kanye will be making his way to Africa in the next two weeks. His children will be coming a long, but nothing has been said about Kim. Kanye first tried to connect in Chicago, but stated that energy is all he felt and the roots is what hes searching for. PAY ATTENTION: Save mobile data with FreeBasics: Briefly is now available on the app. In order to find what he is looking for, Kanye is going to be recording in the open, yes, a little wilderness rap sesh will be happening. Kanye is serious about this roots thing, he stated that he just wants to grab the soil and cook food five times a day so that his metabolism stays up. Alight then READ ALSO: Miss Earth SA Margo Fargos national costume blows Mzansi away We thought that him saying that "slavery is a choice", was bad enough. It seems that all his pro-Trump business has really messed with his head. He needs Africa more than he thinks he does. For more amazing, funny and informative videos, please visit Briefly South Africa's YouTube Channel. Do you have a story to share with us? Go to our Facebook page and leave a comment. To stay up to date with the latest news, download our news app on Google Play or iTunes today. Source: Briefly.co.za On Tuesday, the identity of the alleged Dros rapist was made public after he appeared in court on charges of sexual assault and drug possession. PAY ATTENTION: Click "See first" under the "Following" tab to see Briefly news on your News Feed! Nicholas Ninow appeared in Pretoria Magistrate's Court on Tuesday morning, however, his case has been postponed pending further investigation. The 20-year-old stands accused of sexually assaulting a six-year-old little girl at Dros on the 22nd of September. The media refrained from making his identity public until his first court appearance. So, Briefly.co.za decided to gather the little known facts about the accused. Here is four facts about Ninow. 1. He matriculated in 2016 According to an alleged social media post he wrote, Ninow graduated from high school two-years-ago. News24 reported the post read, "I will be finished with matric by 10 November. My subjects are Business Studies, Geography and Tourism ... I am very interested in business and love to work with small children. PAY ATTENTION: Save mobile data with FreeBasics: Briefly is now available on the app 2. Ninow has a fiancee and baby on the way According to reports, Ninow has a 19-year-old fiancee who is allegedly six months pregnant with their child. One of Ninow's friends, who is also his co-worker, said he has not spoken to the couple since the incident, neither does he want to. However, he added he thinks the engagement has been ended. READ ALSO: Sasha Martinengo sacked after he referred to Juju as a 'monkey' 3. At one point he found Christianity A former friend of Ninow said he became a Christian at one point, but his faith was short lived, and soon stories of drug abuse surfaced again. He said he had found the Lord, but then he would land up back in a fight, or one heard stories about drugs again," the friend said. 4. His friend and colleagues could not believe the stories According to his friends and co-workers, the Ninow they knew was far from the monster who sexually assaulted a six-year-old girl. One of his colleagues said, we did not expect anything like this at all. On the contrary, he has always received compliments from customers. The Nicholas who worked with us is 360 degrees removed from this monster now being depicted here. Do you have a story to share with us? Inbox us on our Facebook page and we could feature your story. To stay up to date with the latest news, download our news app on Google Play or iTunes today. Top 5 richest men in South Africa on Briefly. Everyone, quick: off the top of your head, name a billionaire. Now, think hard and name two or three South African billionaires. How about more? Dont worry, we have gathered this extremely interesting information for you! Source: Briefly.co.za US First Lady, Melania Trump, has arrived in Ghana as part of her extended solo international mission to Ghana. PAY ATTENTION: Click 'See First' under 'Following' tab to see Briefly news on your news feed. Mrs Trump was met on arrival by Ghanas First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo. She is expected to use her visit to promote her Be Best child welfare initiative throughout Africa. READ ALSO: Kanye West is coming to Africa to distress and work on his album The Be Best initiative was launched earlier this year to focus on overall child well-being, with an emphasis on opioid addiction and online behaviour. Ghana, Malawi, Kenya and Egypt have worked closely with the U.S. Agency for International Development, which is helping organize the trip. Whether it is education, drug addiction, hunger, online safety or bullying, poverty or disease, it is too often children who are hit first, and hardest, across the globe, Mrs Trump said prior to this visit. For more amazing, funny and informative videos, please visit Briefly South Africa's YouTube Channel. Do you have a story to share with us? Go to our Facebook page and leave a comment. To stay up to date with the latest news, download our news app on Google Play or iTunes today. Source: Briefly.co.za Melania Trump is currently touring around African to highlight the dangers of cyberbullying however, Trevor Noah has noticed one small flaw with her campaign. PAY ATTENTION: Click See First under the Following tab to see Briefly.co.za News on your News Feed! While Melania has good intentions to bring her Be Best project to Africa, she may struggle to get her message across as many people do not have access to the internet. Trevor Noah supports Melanias effort, he is just a bit unsure of how much progress she will actually make during her trip. The US First Lady has already landed in Africa and has started her tour by spending some time at a clinic in Ghana, where she chose to deliver the first speech of her campaign in Africa. PAY ATTENTION: Save mobile data with FreeBasics: Briefly is now available on the app The SA-born comedian fired shots at Melania during an episode of The Daily Show, but while he was joking, there was some truth behind his remarks. READ ALSO: Miss Earth SA Margo Fargos national costume blows Mzansi away Briefly.co.za learned that this is the first overseas trip that Melania has made without her husband, US President Donald Trump, but she will only be visiting Africa over the course of this week. According to TimesLIVE, Melania was excited for her tour because she has always wanted to visit the continent and to experience its diverse cultures, however the local populations do not share her enthusiasm. Do you have a story to share with us? Inbox us on our Facebook page and we could feature your story. To stay up to date with the latest news, download our news app on Google Play or iTunes today. Watch the animated video and head over to Briefly South Africas Youtube channel for more. Source: Briefly.co.za News / National by Staff reporter MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa yesterday rejected an offer by President Emmerson Mnangagwa to give him official recognition as an opposition leader, saying he is challenging his rival's legitimacy.Mnangagwa revealed during interviews with United States television networks on the sidelines of the United Nations general assembly that Chamisa would be given certain perks as leader of the opposition.MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa (wearing a white helmet) led a clean-up campaign in Glen View and Budiriro, Harare, yesterday. The high-density suburbs were the most hard hit by the recent cholera outbreak. Picture: Aaron UfumeliThe gesture was seen as an attempt to end the dispute that ensued after the July elections where the MDC Alliance accused the Zanu-PF leader of rigging the elections.A petition by Chamisa challenging the presidential election results was thrown out by the Constitutional Court, but the opposition still refuses to recognise Mnangagwa's victory.However, Chamisa told his supporters during a clean-up campaign in Harare's Budiriro and Glen View suburbs that he remained focused on proving that he won the elections."They are saying they want me to go to Parliament and I said: Are you sick?' I was elected to go to State House and not Parliament," he said."Hold forth because we are not easily convinced. I have no fear because I know you are solidly behind me."The youthful politician caused a stir in the two suburbs during the clean-up campaign when thousands of people mobbed him.Meanwhile, Chamisa told The Standard that he would consider talks on the proposals announced by Mnangagwa."That (position) is a non-issue," he said."That has nothing to do with me and the most crucial issue in this country is to deal with the five issues that we put forward. This five-point plan is the pass to transformation and legitimacy."He said his plan included restoring democracy, offering a reform package, national healing and peace building, international re-engagement based on reforms and democratic values and a collective response to the humanitarian crisis in the country."Those are the issues that we must focus on. The issue is not about creating a position without consensus or that which does not address the fundamental issues," he said."Zimbabweans are suffering, they are jobless, homeless and happyless', peaceless and because of the questions of governance and legitimacy of disputed elections which we must address and correct first."You don't cure symptoms, but you cure causes. The problem in the country is not cholera, but the biggest disease that we have is a leadership and governance crisis. Of course, we have cholera, but it is a manifestation of problems."Chamisa condemned the government crackdown against vendors in Harare saying it was insensitive. He claimed the government was using the fight against cholera as an excuse to victimise his supporters."You turn a disease into a political weapon. Mnangagwa must not capitalise on a disease for politics," Chamisa said."Mnangagwa must stop harassing vendors. Who is not a vendor? we are all vendors and it's only that we have different stations of vending. Mnangagwa is a vendor when in New York, Beijing or Davos and why should it be a problem to be a vendor in the CBD when you yourself you are vending in the capitals of the world?"Will he be comfortable if he is treated the same way he is treating vendors here? It's not good at all."I told the councillors that they must not be involved in harassing the vendors, if they want to victimise people, let them do it on their own."But you know that there is no one who survives forever by victimising other people and when tables turn we will ask them."He said the MDC had a clear plan to revive the economy.Harare mayor Herbert Gomba said they would not be part of raids against vendors and also thanked the MDC leadership for supporting them in the fight against cholera.Gomba said vendors should be treated with respect as they contribute to council's revenue for them to upgrade service delivery."Cholera was not caused by vendors, no, and after all it is not a problem to be a vendor because people will be trying to earn a living," he said."Cholera was caused by a contaminated borehole at Tichagarika and not vendors.""Therefore, vendors and all the residents must not try to apportion blame where there is none. Vending is an honest way of earning a living."Cholera has killed at least 49 people out of nearly 7 000 cases recorded mainly in Harare. News / National by Staff reporter Municipalities' power to disconnect water supplies to non-paying residents is reasonable and does not in any way contravene Section 77 of the country's Constitution that guarantees the right to clean and potable water, the Supreme Court has ruled.The court made the ruling in a case in which the Harare City Council was appealing against a High Court judgment granting a provisional order in favour of lawyer, Mr Farai Mushoriwa, who was contesting the disconnection of water at his flat in Harare.Justice Bharat Patel said the city could terminate water suppliers provided they followed its by-laws. Harare (Water) By-laws S.164/1913 require that council gives 24 hours' notice to affected parties before disconnections.Justice Patel quashed the lower court's decision that stopped all municipalities countrywide from disconnecting water supplies for defaulting residents without seeking recourse to the courts. "The provisional order granted by the court a quo be and is hereby set aside," said Justice Patel, partially allowing Harare City Council's appeal.More to follow.... News / National by Staff reporter DISGRUNTLED Apostolic Faith Mission church in Zimbabwe (AFM) pastors have filed an urgent chamber application at the High Court to block the election of a new national executive pending determination of court challenges on the validity of the recent draft constitutional amendment and the Workers' Council resolution.Pastors Arthur Nhamburo (overseer Harare North) and Amon Chinyemba (overseer Harare West) filed an urgent interdict at the High Court in Masvingo to stop the process.The duo, through their lawyer Advocate Joshua John Chirambwe, are seeking an order barring the church and its leadership from acting in terms of the recent Workers Council resolution of September 15.The resolution adopted the draft amendment to the constitution issues at a meeting held at Rufaro campsite in Masvingo.In the main pending challenge filed on Tuesday last week at the High Court in Masvingo, the two pastors are seeking an order declaring the meeting unlawful and void.They argued that the leadership erred by violating a High Court order that allowed them to convene the meeting.More to follow...... News / National by Staff reporter Former Minister of Health and Child Care David Parirenyatwa's accomplice was yesterday hauled before the court to answer to two counts of criminal abuse of office charges.Newman Batanai Madzikwa was not asked to plead when he appeared before Harare magistrate Rumbidzi Mugwagwa.Madzikwa is the acting manager of NatPharm who was fraudulently appointed by Dr Parirenyatwa through a directive to the NatPharm board without following procedure.Natpharm is responsible for supplying medicines to Government and private health centres and there is a standing regulation for a four percent handling fee for all medicinal products delivered to the Ministry of Health and Child Care payable to Natpharm.It is the State's case that Madzikwa, contrary to the requirements, directed his financial manager Roland Mlalazi in a management meeting held on September 3, to effect a 11 percent hike of the handling from four to 15 percent which could have potentially caused price hikes of basic drugs to consumers.In the second count, Madzikwa is alleged to have acted in contrary with his duties by handpicking a Danish company called MissionPharma to supply medicines worth $10m without going to tender.Madzikwa was released on $200 bail and is to report every Friday at Southerton Police Station.Sabastian Mutizirwa represented the State. News / National by Staff reporter THE woman who shot dead her bus operator husband has been issued with a warrant of arrest after absconding court as well as breaching bail conditions.Bridget Makaza is accused of fatally shooting her bus operator husband MacCloud Mapanga following a marital dispute.She was supposed to appear before Harare magistrate Rumbidzai Mugwagwa on September 28 but absconded.The State, led by Ropafadzo Botch, applied that warrant of arrest be issued against Makaza who is accused of killing her husband.According to the State, Bridget's sister alerted the police that the murder suspect was missing.Her lawyer Tungamirai Muganhiri confirmed that his client was missing."I am told she is missing and she missed the routine remand date."Her mobile numbers are not getting through," he said.Some of Makaza's bail conditions are that she is supposed to report three times a week at Warren Park Police Station.Circumstances are that Makaza and her husband Mapanga had a long argument in their marriage as the businessman had married another wife.The State alleges that on May 14, Makaza got up while Mapanga was asleep, took a gun before shooting him three times on the neck.In an attempt to cover her offence, she allegedly screamed, raising alarm, faking that her husband had been shot by armed robbers.Magistrate Mugwagwa issued a warrant of arrest against Makaza. News / National by Staff reporter THE Zimbabwe Electoral Commission is in the eye of a storm for allegedly courting an Estonian company to roll out an electronic voting system, which it plans to use in 2023 to allow Zimbabweans in the diaspora to vote.The system, called Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS), according to informed sources, will be handled by NetGroup Estonia, a move that has irked local ICT firms."We are always impressed when government is introducing Information and Communication Technology solutions of our ever-changing environment. What we don't understand is why our government chooses international companies over our own local technologists, who are now outstripping farming and tourism in terms of GDP [gross domestic product]?" the Zimbabwe Information and Communication Technologies (ZICT), a subdivision of The Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers, asked."Why is government engaging an Estonia company called NetGroup Estonia to develop and implement an e-voting system that allows Zimbabweans based in the diaspora to participate in future national elections?"Zec, which implemented a biometric voters' roll for this year's eletions, bought its biometric voters' registration kits from a South African company based in China, Laxton Group, shelling out over $8 million, before securing AFIS software from an American company, Ipsidy Inc, ahead of the July 30 general elections.The procurement of the e-voting system is reportedly being handled by Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, who was not picking his phone at the time of going to print last night.President Emmerson Mnangagwa, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, met with Estonian Prime Minister Juri Ratas to discuss wide-ranging issues, including how Zimbabwe could tap into Estonian knowledge on e-voting.Mnangagwa's spokesperson George Charamba confirmed the meeting to the State-owned media while in the United States."Estonia is, in fact, a leader in terms of ICT development and for Zimbabwe, we looked at three critical areas of ICT co-operation with Estonia; e-health, e-governance, but more critically, e-voting. You are aware that we do have a big diaspora community, whose fervent call has been for them to be given the power to vote, except the logistics of it has been forbidding," Charamba said.Zec vice-chairperson Emmanuel Magade said there was discussion at the electoral body to adopt the e-voting platform, but a decision had not yet been reached."Let me say that this is a moot point at the moment, which still has to be discussed at the highest level at Zec. As far as I know, there is no concrete decision that has been made, but in other countries in the region like Namibia, e-voting has been adopted successfully," he said. News / National by Staff reporter Suspended Zimbabwe National Road Administration (Zinara) chief executive, Nancy Masiyiwa-Chamisa is set to appear before a disciplinary committee today, NewsDay has learnt.Masiyiwa-Chamisa was suspended in June this year, initially without benefits before they were re-instated, for allegedly seeking the dismissal of two senior directors without then Transport minister Joram Gumbo's approval.Zinara board chairperson Wilfred Ramwi yesterday could neither deny nor confirm Masiyiwa-Chamisa's case will be heard today."The issue is being handled by lawyers. Talk to her lawyers; they will be in a position to tell you more. The matter will be heard by an independent disciplinary committee," Ramwi said.New Transport minister Joel Biggie Matiza has indicated he is aware of the problems bedevilling Zinara, a key parastatal under his portfolio."I have met with the board and have assigned my deputy (Fortune Chasi) to look into Zinara and make sure we are on sound footing for take-off. But I can assure you that in all our parastatals, corruption is not going to be tolerated. We will not be apologetic about that," Matiza said last week.Sources yesterday said Ramwi's board was under pressure to suspend the hearing until the new minister is fully apprised on the matter."The board is in panic mode because there are rumours it might be dissolved, given the sweeping changes in government so they want to pre-empt Matiza as well as entrench the interests of those behind the corruption at the parastatal," said an insider.Chasi yesterday said he had been made aware of the disciplinary hearing, but not from Zinara."Zinara has not told me, but I am aware. I am going step by step to understand what is happening and think it would not be right for me to issue directives. It would be akin to running Zinara directly. Let's see the process through and once there is a record, we can evaluate it and the individuals concerned, in any case, will have a right of appeal," Chasi said yesterday.Chamisa-Masiyiwa has also reportedly engaged prominent lawyer Beatrice Mtetwa ahead of the hearing.According to documents gleaned by NewsDay, the suspended Zinara boss' other lawyer George Makings said the charges against his client were incoherent, especially the one that she had sought other directors' dismissals without the minister's authority."I cannot see how the minister (Gumbo) would be in a position to approve the dismissal of the two directors (Taranhike and Murove) without there having been due disciplinary processes carried out, them being found guilty as charged and then the matter being referred to the minister as clearly he would be in a position to summarily dismiss them without due process as to do that would be an unfair labour practice," Makings argues in a letter, a copy of which NewsDay has in its possession. News / National by Simbarashe Sithole A senior citizen dragged President Emerson Mnangagwa's name in a cannabis storm at Guruve magistrates' court on Monday.Takawira Muzvondiwa (67) pleaded guilty to possession of 23,93kilograms of cannabis before Guruve magistrate Artwel Sanyatwe.Muzvondiwa told the court that he possessed cannabis after being misinformed by his neighbours that President Mnangagwa legalised cannabis possession and growing.Public prosecutor Albert Mazhindu told the court on 27 September at Mucheri village Guruve under Chief Chipuriro Muzvondiwa was arrested by Guruve Criminal Investigation Department (CID) details after he was found in position of dagga.In mitigation Muzvondiwa said he used the weed to cure his sick wife battling with cancer and would smoke it since he was told that Mnangagwa legalised it."Your worship l was told by my neighbours that President Mnangagwa legalised possession of cannabis so l was using it to cure my sick wife and here and there l would smoke to freshen my mind."He was remanded in custody for sentencing tomorrow.In a related case Noise Kamuriwo (73) of Gota farm appeared before the same magistrate for possessing 1,93kilograms of cannabis.Kamuriwo pleaded guilty to the charge and told the court that he used the weed to fortify his homestead against evil spirits that torment him at night."I admit possessing mbanje but my reason is spiritual, there are evil spirits that torment me at night so the weed is there to fortify my homestead," said Kamuriwo.He was remanded in custody for sentencing tomorrow. News / National by Staff reporter Self-exiled leader of the secessionist Matabeleland Liberation Organisation (MLO), Paul Siwela has said that the Emmerson Mnangagwa led government must pay the Matebeleland US$100 billion in compensation for Gukurahundi and other outrages perpetrated by successive Zanu PF administrations since 1980.Siwela said the region must not accept President Emmerson Mnangagwa's offer to apologise until the compensation is paid.He was speaking to NewZimbabwe.com via social media from his undisclosed base, Siwela accused the government of exploiting Matebelelands resources to the exclusion of the people of the region."Our demand, as MLO, made to the government of Zimbabwe through the Office of The President of Zimbabwe was that Matabeleland be paid a compensation sum of US$100 billion for the multiple level damages suffered under successive Zimbabwe administrations since 18 April, 1980," said Siwela.He added; "We urge all the people of Matabeleland to reject the pending apology without compensation from the government.Mnangagwa recently indicated that he was prepared to issue an apology based on the recommendations of the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC). On Tuesday morning, hours after LNG Canada announced it would go ahead with its $40-billion export facility on the West Coast, analyst Martin King gave a presentation about the state of the oil and gas industry at the Calgary Petroleum Club in the city's downtown. The LNG announcement is massive for the natural gas sector, but King had some cold truth for hundreds of people who came to hear him despite the heavy snow outside. Until the LNG export facility is up and running, he said, there is little reason for optimism. King even skipped through a few presentation slides showing his forecasted prices for the next few years, joking "I won't depress you too much with those." Photo courtesy of LNG Canada Technological innovation led to a rise in natural gas production in North America and demand hasn't grown nearly as much, which has caused prices to sag for several years. In Alberta, some gas companies have shut-in their wells because they don't see the point of producing gas when prices are this low. Rough ride In 2014, natural gas was selling for more than $4 for 1,000 cubic feet in Alberta, compared to an average of just over $1 in the second quarter of this year. For some perspective, a decade ago, prices were in the double digits. LONG READ | LNG advocates believe the Kitimat project will open Canada up to a massive export market - here's how "It looks like there will be lots of supply and low prices," said King, with GMP FirstEnergy, in an interview with CBC News. "The pressure keeps building on Canadian gas." Darryl Dyck/Canadian Press While population growth, new natural gas-fired power plants, and oilsands expansion could increase demand for natural gas in the coming years, experts say the long-term fix is having a facility to export natural gas to countries around the world. That's where LNG Canada comes in. The massive megaproject on B.C's coast is the first natural gas export facility in the country. Until now, Canada has exported all of its natural gas to the United States, which is also awash in the fuel. Story continues In 2017, Canada exported more than eight billion cubic feet per day of natural gas, worth more than $9 billion. The LNG Canada facility alone will be able to export about two billion cubic feet per day and fetch higher global prices. "The next couple of years will be tough but this gives some hope that eventually we will get away from only selling into the saturated North America market," said Jackie Forrest, with the ARC Energy Research Institute. "This is getting us a foot in that growing Asian market and we are really positioned well to ship to Asia because of our proximity to the market." An LNG lifeline Construction begins immediately, according to LNG Canada, and the new facility will be operational sometime in the early 2020s. Globally, it marks the first time a company has approved a new investment in a greenfield LNG export project in five years, according to Wood Mackenzie, an energy research firm. While several LNG projects proposed for the B.C. West Coast have been delayed or shelved in recent years, experts say now that one facility will be built, others may follow suit. As Canada enters the international LNG export market beyond North America, other countries are also building LNG terminals, so there will be competition to attract investment from large oil and gas companies. The United States, for instance, is expected to more than double its LNG export capacity in the next few years and a dozen more proposed projects are waiting approval by the country's energy regulator. While the current climate is rough for natural gas producers, at least companies know it should improve in about five years. "Certainly, sentiment-wise, it's a good boost for them," said King. "It's going to take time but it is a situation which will improve." That's worth something, especially for a sector long-starved of any reason to be cheerful. A Canada-wide warrant has been issued for a man accused of passing off metal washers as toonies in order to steal $30,000 from more than a dozen banks in B.C. RCMP say a man went to 17 banks in the Lower Mainland to ask that rolls of toonies be exchanged for bills between March and May. North Vancouver RCMP Each roll had a toonie on either end to make it look authentic, but tellers later realized the rest of the "coins" were actually washers, police said in a statement. Each 25-coin roll was exchanged for $50, for a total of $30,000 in cash. Terrelle Robert Talbot, 43, is wanted on 17 counts of criminal fraud over $5,000. He has no fixed address and is originally from Nova Scotia, where there is also an outstanding warrant for his arrest in relation to similar offences. Talbot is described as being six feet tall, 201 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Anyone who has information on his whereabouts is asked to call North Vancouver RCMP at (604) 985-1311. Read more from CBC British Columbia Coalition Avenir Quebec, a right-of-centre party that has never held power, will form a majority government in Quebec, dealing a historic blow to the incumbent Liberals. In a rowdy victory speech, premier-designate Francois Legault said voters had finally set aside the divisive battle over sovereignty that has consumed provincial politics for the last 50 years. "Today, we have made history," he said. "There are many Quebecers who have demonstrated that it is possible to have yesterday's adversaries work together, to work for the Quebec of tomorrow, together." The election also saw major losses for the pro-independence Parti Quebecois at the hands of another emerging party, Quebec Solidaire. The PQ's leader, Jean-Francois Lisee, resigned after losing his seat. The CAQ, which promises to lower taxes, privatize some aspects of the health-care system and cut the number of immigrants, capitalized on an appetite for change among Quebec voters. The Liberals had held power for the past 15 years, with the exception of a brief PQ minority government. Founded in 2011, the CAQ was the favourite heading into the campaign, though Legault stumbled badly at times, particularly when pressed to explain his controversial plan to cut the number of immigrants accepted by the province. But he regained momentum in the final week of the campaign, much of which he spent in the regions outside Montreal, where he enjoys broad support among key francophone voters. Speaking in English, he said, "I want to assure you that my government will be your government." Watch Legault address English Quebecers: The CAQ won 74 ridings while the Liberals were elected in 32. Sixty-three is required for a majority. But they won only two seats on the island of Montreal. Legault, who has proposed building new suburban roads, has not always seen eye to eye with the city's mayor,Valerie Plante, who took power last year on a promise to improve public transit. Story continues The CAQ had 37.7 per cent of the popular vote, the lowest amount in Quebec history for a party that won a majority. The Liberals got only 24.7 per cent, a historic low for the party. Since Confederation, the Liberals have always obtained at least 30 per cent of the vote. Couillard mulls his future Philippe Couillard's Liberals campaigned on their strong economic record and a promise to improve the everyday lives of Quebecers. But they were criticized for the deep cuts to education and health care made in the first two years of their mandate as they wrestled to balance the budget. In his concession speech, Couillard, who retained his own seat in Lac-Saint-Jean, said he would take a few days to reflect on his political future. "Quebecers clearly expressed a desire for change," he said. "I wish for [Legault's] government all the success that Quebec deserves. "Despite our significant differences in opinion, we are all Quebecers. We must remain united." Couillard added that he was proud of his government's record, and that "we did what we said we would do." Speaking in English, he said, "English is not a foreign language. You have always been among us, part of us, part of our history." Watch: Couillard urges Quebec to remain united. Gains for Quebec Solidaire The PQ won just nine seats and only 17 per cent of the popular vote. Those numbers aren't enough to maintain official party status in Quebec. The question of whether Quebec should become independent didn't figure prominently in the campaign for the first time in decades. Paul Chiasson/Canadian Press With support for sovereignty waning, the PQ said during the campaign it would put off holding a referendum until a second mandate. But the party lost votes to another sovereignist party, the smaller, left-wing Quebec Solidaire, led by two popular "co-spokespeople," Manon Masse and Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois. Lisee lost his own Montreal riding of Rosemont to Quebec Solidaire's Vincent Marissal. Quebec Solidaire won 10 ridings, more than tripling its seat count. Quebec Solidaire's platform, which includes a series of bold environmental proposals, is particularly popular among young voters. In her speech, Masse urged the CAQ to take action to fight climate change. Peter McCabe/Canadian Press "We told you all campaign about the environment. It's now or never," she said. When the election was called, the Liberals held 68 seats, the PQ held 28, the CAQ 21 and Quebec Solidaire three, along with five independents in the province's 125-seat National Assembly. By John Irish and Richard Lough PARIS (Reuters) - France said on Tuesday there was no doubt Iran's intelligence ministry was behind a June plot to attack an exiled opposition group's rally outside Paris and it seized assets belonging to Tehran's intelligence services and two Iranian nationals. The hardening of relations between Paris and Tehran could have far-reaching consequences for Iran as President Hassan Rouhani's government looks to European capitals to salvage a 2015 nuclear deal after the United States pulled out and reimposed tough sanctions on Iran. "Behind all this was a long, meticulous and detailed investigation by our (intelligence) services that enabled us to reach the conclusion, without any doubt, that responsibility fell on the Iranian intelligence ministry," a French diplomatic source said. The source, speaking after the government announced asset freezes, added that deputy minister and director general of intelligence Saeid Hashemi Moghadam had ordered the attack and Assadollah Asadi, a Vienna-based diplomat held by German authorities, had put it into action. The ministry is under control of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, "We deny once again the allegations against Iran and demand the immediate release of the Iranian diplomat," Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi was quoted as saying by state news agency IRNA. The incident was a plot "designed by those who want to damage Irans long-established relations with France and Europe," he said. The plot targeted a meeting of the Paris-based National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) outside the French capital. U.S. President Donald Trump's lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, and several former European and Arab ministers attended the rally. It unraveled after Asadi, an accredited diplomat in Austria, was arrested in Germany, two other individuals were detained in Belgium in possession of explosives, and one other individual in France. On Monday, a court in southern Germany ruled the diplomat could be extradited to Belgium. "We cannot accept any terrorist threat on our national territory and this plot needed a firm response," the diplomatic source said. TARGETED ASSET FREEZES The asset freezes targeted Asadi and Moghadam. A unit within the Iranian intelligence services was also targeted. The French government gave no details of the assets involved, describing its measures as "targeted and proportionate". The diplomatic source said the freezes covered assets and financing means in France, although neither individual at this stage had any assets in the country. "We hope this matter is now over. We have taken measures and said what we needed to say," the source said, suggesting Paris was seeking to turn a page on the issue. France had warned Tehran to expect a robust response to the thwarted bombing and diplomatic relations were becoming increasingly strained. French President Emmanuel Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian spoke to their Iranian counterparts about the issue at the U.N. General Assembly after demanding explanations over Iran's role. An internal French foreign ministry memo in August told diplomats not to travel to Iran, Reuters revealed, citing the Villepinte bomb plot and a toughening of Irans position toward the West. Paris has also suspended nominating a new ambassador to Iran and not responded to Tehran nominations for diplomatic positions in France. While not directly linked to the plot, the diplomatic source said a French police raid on a Shi'ite Muslim faith center earlier on Tuesday was aimed at also sending a signal at Iran. [ID:nL8N1WI2Y7 The deterioration of relations with France could have wider implications for Iran. France has been one of the strongest advocates of salvaging the 2015 nuclear deal, which saw Tehran agree to curbs on its nuclear program in return for a lifting of economic sanctions. U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has said it expects renewed sanctions to hurt the Iranian economy hard. (Additional reporting by Paris bureau, Maria Sheahan in Frankfurt; Editing by Jon Boyle, William Maclean, Richard Balmforth) Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland says Canadian dairy farmers will be compensated for losses under a new trade deal negotiated by Canada, the U.S. and Mexico by the time the agreement takes effect. "By the time it enters into force, our dairy farmers can be very, very confident that they will have fair compensation," Freeland told CBC Radio's Metro Morning on Tuesday. Freeland said compensation for farmers is "justified" because the deal, known as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), gives the U.S. access to Canada's dairy market. "I want to start by saying to dairy farmers that compensation is justified. And compensation will be full and fair. We are doing the calculations now. It's going to be fair and the key thing is we have some time." The deal, which replaces NAFTA, still has to be signed by leaders of all three countries and must be ratified by their respective governments. It grants U.S. milk producers access to 3.6 per cent of the Canadian domestic market. "That was one of the central elements which was necessary for the deal to come together," she said. Farmers are disappointed in how the deal will affect their industry, according to Graham Lloyd, CEO of Dairy Farmers of Ontario, an industry group that represents more than 3,500 dairy farms. "They're obviously concerned about the continuing erosion of our marketplace and the true loss of revenue and income," he said. Carolyn Kaster/The Associated Press Ontario Premier Doug Ford called for compensation on Monday, saying farmers need the support of the federal government because access to their market was a concession in negotiations. "If our farmers are being abandoned because of one-sided concessions from the federal government, they must take immediate action to support the families and livelihoods that are now at risk," Ford said in a tweet. The new deal also imposes unprecedented export controls and ends a dairy ingredient pricing system that was helping dairy processors compete without using cheap American imports. Story continues Nicole Williams/CBC Freeland said she "agonized over a lot" in negotiations, including the dairy concession, but the deal is good news for Canada. "With this deal, we have secured our continued access to the largest market in the world and to the market that accounts for around 70 per cent of our exports," she said. "That is a big deal." 'Deal I was happy to get' Freeland said she agreed with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that "no deal is better than a bad deal," but was relieved that the agreement keeps Chapter 19, a dispute-settlement mechanism of the original NAFTA, and the cultural exemption, which she said helps Canada maintain its identity. Chapter 19 allows companies to request arbitration if they feel their products have been unfairly hit with anti-dumping or countervailing duties. Carolyn Kaster/The Associated Press "It's the deal that I was happy to get," she said. "It secures what we have." The deal has elements that are better than NAFTA, she said. For example, Freeland said the deal gets rid of the ISDS, the investor state dispute settlement mechanism between Canada and the U.S., which she said allows foreign companies to sue the Canadian government. She said she considers that provision of the original NAFTA to be a "serious breach of our sovereignty." The provision cost Canada millions of dollars, she said. "I felt throughout this negotiation truly a sacred trust," she said. Farmers are meeting with the Ontario premier on Tuesday to talk about the impact of the deal on dairy, egg and turkey operations. A 23-year-old is believed to be one of the youngest adults in the UK with dementia after inheriting the gene from his mother. Jordan Adams was told he would develop early onset frontotemporal dementia and Parkinsons Disease, a condition which will worsen as he gets older. He inherited a gene which causes the degenerative condition from his mother Geri, who died aged 52. Entrepreneur Jordan, from Redditch, Worcs, was given the crushing news that he had a rare mutation of the MAPT gene last month. Jordan Adams was told his early onset frontotemporal dementia and Parkinsons Disease would get worse as he gets older. (Caters) While Jordan has no signs of the illness now, doctors have told him he could lose the ability to walk, talk and eat for himself at any time and his life could end in his fifties, as his mum and aunty Ann did. He now plans to have his sperm screened for the gene so he and girlfriend Lucy Thomas, 21, can start a family before his symptoms develop. Jordan said he saw the full impact of the disease while caring for Geri, as he watched her lose the ability to talk, walk and eventually eat and breathe for herself. Jordan was given the news he had tested positive for the gene when he and sister Kennedy, 25 decided to get themselves tested after watching beloved mum Geri deteriorate over a period of six years. Geri Adams with Jordan and Kennedy as youngsters. (Caters) He was finally given the results on September 12 after three gruelling months of consultations and blood tests. He said: When I was told the diagnosis I was devastated. We had been in the waiting area for what seemed like hours it was only 10 minutes but it felt like an eternity. As soon as I walked into the room I knew it wasnt a positive result nobody can prepare you for that. If there are no advancements then Ill have a shorter life than most. Jordans mother Geri died aged 52 after battling dementia for eight years. (Caters) Its like a death sentence. Its very hard to explain. Were all dealt cards in life and I was just incredibly unlucky. Jordans family first noticed something was wrong with his mum Geri in 2006, when she suddenly began acting out of character, but she was not diagnosed until 2010 before passing away in 2016. Story continues He said their usually compassionate, caring and generous mother slowly got stripped of her communication, before later losing her mobility and ability to go out alone. Jordan said that despite his initial shock, he and girlfriend Lucy have discussed their plans for their future together and that he feels like his diagnosis will give him a unique perspective on life. Jordan, pictured with girlfriend Lucy, said hes not determined to live life to the full after the devastating diagnosis. (Caters) They are considering having IVF when they decide to start a family as the process will allow doctors to screen his sperm for the dementia-carrying gene. Jordan said: I feel like the diagnosis is actually a licence to live. Itll make me step back and appreciate the bigger picture. Its going to allow me to make choices to live a fulfilled life. Lucy added: Weve decided that itd be probably best to have children first and then get married. We know its different to how most people would it do but itll give Jordan more time with his kids. Its hard to deal with knowing he wont be there one day but its important to retain perspective. We will have a life together despite everything. Jordans sister Kennedy who was given the all-clear from having the gene earlier this year added: He has got time but we just dont know how much he has no symptoms yet, but it could start tomorrow. He wont get it when hes old and grey, but when hes young and fit. This disease is hereditary, aggressive, and rare. But Jordans been incredible, and hes not going to let it destroy him. Jason Kenney says he's glad Quebec's new gov't is aiming for no equalization payments Jason Kenney, the leader of Alberta's United Conservative Party, applauded the Coalition Avenir Quebec on its election win Monday night on Twitter, calling it "encouraging to have a new Quebec government whose explicit goal is 'to aim for zero equalization' payments." The right-of-centre CAQ party was projected to have won a majority government its first time in power shortly after polls closed across the province, dealing a blow to the incumbent Liberals. CAQ Leader Francois Legault has stated his goal is to halt the province's dependence on $11 billion a year in federal equalization payments, and even reverse the dynamic so Quebec would pay out to the rest of the country. The party's financial framework didn't explicitly detail how it would fund that campaign promise. The equalization program which has been extended until 2024 is a contentious one in Alberta. It distributes federal cash, which is paid for by income taxes from across the country, to ensure all Canadians have equal access to public services. In recent years, Alberta has received no equalization payments, even during its recession, while Quebec often receives the highest amount. Kenney has been a loud voice against the current payment formula, despite being a member of parliament with the former federal Conservative government when the formula was put in place. Earlier this year, he called for a referendum on equalization and said it was important that the government understand that circumstances have changed with Alberta's recent economic downturn. Alberta Premier Rachel Notley also congratulated Francois Legault on his win, and thanked current Premier Philippe Couillard for his service. By Mfuneko Toyana JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africa's Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene told a judicial corruption inquiry on Wednesday that he was fired by former president Jacob Zuma for refusing to approve a $100 billion nuclear power deal with Russia in 2015. Nene is the highest profile figure to give evidence at a probe into alleged influence-peddling by the Gupta family, friends of Zuma, who are accused of using their relationship with the former leader to unduly win state contracts. Zuma has repeatedly denied accusations by his opponents that he pushed for a deal with President Vladimir Putin at a BRICS summit for Russia to build a fleet of nuclear power stations. Opposition politicians and local investigative journalists say the proposed deal - which would have been the biggest state contract in South Africa's history - would have included huge kickbacks for Zuma and the Gupta family. The Indian-born brothers - Ajay, Atul and Rajesh - have been accused of using their ties with Zuma to siphon off billions of rand in state funds and of inappropriately influencing cabinet appointments. They left South Africa earlier this year around the time Zuma resigned under pressure from his own party and the authorities are seeking their return to face prosecution. Nene, in the first public account of the nuclear negotiations, said Zuma became hostile toward him at a meeting at the summit when he refused to sign a guarantee letter Zuma wanted to present to Putin while in Russia. It was a very tense meeting that ended with us just being instructed by the president to go and find a solution, which we didnt find," Nene told the inquiry. I told the president in the meeting that I could not sign the letter without having first interrogated the financial and fiscal implications A spokesman for Zuma did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Kremlin did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Allegations of corruption have been swirling around Zuma and the Gupta brothers for years, but the current inquiry is for the first time allowing senior government officials to give their accounts to the public. "SMOKING GUN" "Nene's testimony is extraordinarily important. This is the person who was CEO when it comes to the public purse," political analyst Ralph Mathekga said. "Before this evidence it was difficult to connect the dots to Zuma. But this is a smoking gun which shows Zuma was a protagonist in this affair." Zuma fired Nene in December 2015 and replaced him with largely unknown lawmaker Des van Rooyen, sending markets into a tailspin before Zuma appointed investor-friendly Pravin Gordhan as his third finance minister in the space of four days. Zuma's successor as president Cyril Ramaphosa re-appointed Nene finance minister in February this year. Nene told the inquiry he lost his job for not approving contracts that would benefit the Gupta family, particularly the Russian nuclear deal. His decision to reject a proposed national airline route to Sudan on grounds that it was not commercially viable also contributed to his sacking. "I do believe I was removed as minister of finance for my refusal to toe the line in relation to certain projects," he said. Nene's supporters have portrayed him as a principled official who sought to defend the country's strained public finances against corrupt attacks from Zuma and his allies. However, his detractors, including the radical opposition Economic Freedom Fighters, say he was involved in corrupt deals with the Guptas when he was deputy finance minister and head of the state pension fund from 2008-2014. Nene told the inquiry he met the Gupta brothers several times, including four visits to their family home in Johannesburg between 2010-2013, but said it was normal practice to meet business leaders as a deputy finance minister. (Additional reporting by Alexander Winning; Writing by Joe Brock; Editing by Richard Balmforth, William Maclean) CAMEROUN :: Cameroon: Shall Traffickers on Trial Appear at Bonanjo Douala Court ? The case against six traffickers arrested with over 700kg of pangolin scales shall be heard at the Bonanjo Court of First Instance on September 28. This is the second hearing of case that opened last month following the arrestof the traffickers by wildlife officials from the Wouri Divisional Delegation of Forestry and Wildlife working in collaboration with officers from the Judicial Police. Three of the six traffickers failed to appear in court during the first hearing. Shortly before their arrest, one of the traffickers flew in from Bangui where he had collected close to 600kg of giant pangolin scales and sent the illegal cargo by road to Douala. Helater met five others in Doualaand they attempted to sell the pangolin scales. They were arrested in the act, at the Bonaprisoneighbourhood in Douala. Three of the traffickers were later released on bail and they failed to turn up in court the next day, when the matter was first scheduled for hearing, prompting fears that they have escaped. Two of the three that failed to appear in court are from the Central African Republic where a network of pangolin scales trafficking,bought pangolin scales from smaller traffickers in the country and from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) while exporting to Nigeria via Cameroon. Their illegal activity in the DRC, according to sources close to the matter that requested to speak anonymously, was protected by some members of the ruling elite. The scales were generally assembled in Nigeria for export. Majority of the scales that were confiscated in Douala were from the giant pangolin which is an animal that is threatened with extinction, The operation that led to the confiscation, was technically assisted by LAGA, a wildlife law enforcement support body that assists government in the application of the wildlife law. Prior investigations showed the traffickers were linked to rhino horn and lion trophies trafficking. The illegal trade in pangolin scales is prompting a strong response from wildlife officials who are presently stepping up efforts in combatting the trade. Officers from the AkwaGendarmerie Brigade, on September 7, intercepted over 400kg of pangolin scales that was heading to Nigeria. Four people were arrested and the case file was handed over to wildlife officials who, with the technical assistance of LAGA, continued the prosecution proceedings. All four were charged with unlawful possession and circulation of parts of protected species. As in the first case, they were equally released on bail and the never turned up in court during the first hearing, prompting fresh fears that they too had escaped while raising questions as to why traffickers are released without strong enough checks to ensure they appear in court. In January 2017, two Chinese nationals were arrested with over 5 tons of pangolin scales ready for illegal export and they were sentenced to a jail term of3 months. Many considered this as an extremely weak punishment for people who had been responsible for the killing of thousands of pangolins, destroying the countrys endangered wildlife in the process.These rulings and other decisions at the level of the judiciary is becoming a matter of concern for conservationists because the traffickers are set free to go about their illegal business. On September 28, when the case against the traffickers hold, suspicions raised that the traffickers may have escaped, shall be dispersed or confirmed, depending on whether, indeed, they appear in court. Should nations, ethnic and religious groups feel collectively guilty for the deeds of their predecessors? The idea of guilt by association is applied in nations like North Korea, where entire families are often severely punished for the actions of individuals, even down to the third generation. Group punishment might be seen as a deterrent to certain behaviors, as it suggests families are responsible for enforcing norms and rules on those closest to them, and are responsible for negligence in this regard. Their proximity to the "offender" makes them "guilty". But how are grand-children responsible for such "crimes"? And when Christian families are thrown in gulags, the method seems more tailored to erradicating a pest before it spread, than any theory of justice. Third party responsibility There are laws in certain states in the U.S which qualify those present during the commission of a homicide, as a complicit and involved party, and therefore liable for a murder charge along with the perpetrator, even if they didn't directly kill the victim. So the getaway driver in a burglary gone-wrong can be liable for murder even though he wasn't directly engaging in violence. In some sense we look down on the North Koreans while having similar laws and punishments that hold third parties responsible, to the same extent. On a slightly different vein, what responsibility then do American white millenials have for slavery and Jim Crow. Or white Australians and Kiwis have for mistreatment of natives or misappropriation of land two hundred years ago? The sense of guilt is a real sentiment many white people feel. Maybe not as individuals who are directly responsible, but as benefactors of injustices done in the past. Not necessarily from slavery, but land appropriation and unequal distribution by race for example. So it might be understandible for some whites to have their representatives seek amends or reparations corporately. Each case is different though, for example land occupation and confiscation after the Maori Land Wars was not the universal situation, as colonials also settled portions of uninhabited land in vast areas. Third-generation damage Are all the natives or minorities currently disadvantaged due to the historical crimes their parents endured from whites? If so, does society have a duty to any sort of restitution, for those historical crimes? And to who? Blacks during Jim Crow for example were certainly treated terribly as a group, and maybe some sort of restitution should be rewarded to their children as a group. At the outset, disproportionate levels of poverty, crime and social dysfunction by race do not automatically suggest a modern manifestation of past oppression, or existing "systematic racism" for that matter. Many non-oppressed groups have immigrated to western nations, and were significantly overrepresented in crime and poverty statistics, despite having never been oppressed by white majorities. Similarly other immigrant populations who have been oppressed are overrepresented as high achievers and success stories only a few generations later. Not to mention the success of holocaust survivors and their children. So diagnosing third-generation damage resulting from historical abuses isn't so clear-cut. Mentality Children don't automatically suffer because their parents were oppressed, it depends on how they are raised. Maybe some groups recover better. And maybe some historically oppressed groups teach their children to feel like victims, even though they do not live under the same circumstances. Circumstances are not necessarily intergenerational, but a mentality can be. And the worst is a mentality that perpetuates bad outcomes to the next generation. Why then are young white people collectively responsible for the actions of some of their predecessors? At some point, after restitution is made, there is a limit to this guilt, it then becomes the responsibility of historically oppressed grandparents and parents to raise their children with healthy identities, not resentful at society for actions that happened generations ago. Children will feel angry for the plight of their parents, but in the Western world they are no longer limited by it. And to move on in unity, whites should not be singled out as the uniquely guilty party in the world, while the atrocities of everyone else are ignored, even the present day slave trade of Africans in Lybia and other Middle East Nations. Certainly Christian organisations ministering against human slavery including sexual servitude are front and centre of this fight. Amos Sale is a Press Service International young writer from Auckland, New Zealand. WEDNESDAY, Oct. 3, 2018 (HealthDay News) -- Tough pregnancies might translate into tough times during menopause, new research suggests. Women who developed complications during pregnancy -- including dangerously high blood pressure ("preeclampsia") and gestational diabetes -- were more likely to experience more hot flashes during menopause, the researchers found. "This study further underscores the importance of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia for later health, particularly cardiovascular health at midlife," said study author Dr. Rhoda Conant, from the University of Oklahoma's Health Science Center. While the study uncovered a connection between pregnancy complications and hot flashes during menopause, it did not prove cause and effect. Hot flashes, high blood pressure during pregnancy and diabetes during pregnancy are all linked by a similar underlying cause, known as vascular endothelial dysfunction, the study authors said. To investigate this theory, the research team analyzed data on more than 2,200 women who were in a national study. The findings showed that gestational diabetes and high blood pressure during pregnancy were linked to a greater number of hot flash episodes later in life. The findings were to be presented Wednesday at the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) annual meeting, in San Diego. "Women with a history of these pregnancy disorders were heavier and more likely to be taking lipid [cholesterol]-lowering medications and diabetes medications," Conant explained in a society news release. It's estimated that up to 80 percent of women experience hot flashes during menopause, the study authors said. According to Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton, NAMS executive director, "With so many women affected by hot flashes, health care providers need to understand all the underlying risk factors that could influence hot flashes at the time of menopause." Research presented at medical meetings should be considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal. More information The U.S. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development has more about pregnancy complications. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram Beirut, October 3, 2018The Committee to Protect Journalists is deeply concerned about Jamal Khashoggi, a Saudi journalist who has been living in self-imposed exile in the U.S. since 2017, and urges Saudi authorities to immediately disclose his whereabouts. Khashoggi, a columnist for The Washington Post and a former editor-in-chief of the Saudi newspaper Al-Watan who writes critically about Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, entered the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul yesterday to complete paperwork and failed to emerge after the consulate officially closed, according to Reuters and The Washington Post. Reuters reported today that Khashoggi is in the consulate, citing two Turkish officials. In response to a request for comment from Reuters, the consulate said it would respond if there was any comment to make, according to the news agency. The Saudi embassy in Washington, D.C., did not immediately respond to CPJs request for comment today. Saudi authorities must immediately verify the whereabouts of Jamal Khashoggi, CPJ Middle East and North Africa Program Coordinator Sherif Mansour said from New York. Given the Saudi authorities pattern of quietly detaining critical journalists, Khashoggis failure to emerge from the Saudi consulate on the day he entered is a cause for alarm. Saudi Arabias repression of journalists has intensified since Crown Prince Salman rose to power as the apparent heir to the king last year. CPJ recently documented a steadily increasing number of bloggers and journalists detained in unknown locations without charges since the start of what Saudi authorities term an anti-corruption campaign in September 2017. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram New York, October 03, 2018The Committee to Protect Journalists will join a group of international press freedom and freedom of expression organizations from October 15-17 on a mission to Malta. The group will support local civil society actions marking the one-year anniversary of the death of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, and conduct fact-finding into the case and broader press freedom issues in the country. The group has requested meetings with government officials, including Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, as well as a wide range of civil society stakeholders. The mission will publish a joint statement of findings on conclusion, to be presented in a press conference on October 17. Representatives of each organization will be available for comment or interview. What: A joint mission to mark one year since the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia and assess the climate for freedom of the press in Malta. Where: Valletta, Malta When: October 15-17, 2018. A joint press conference will be held at 9:00 a.m. local time on October 17 in Valletta, Malta. Venue to be confirmed. Who: CPJ, Reporters Without Borders, the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom, the European Federation of Journalists, the International Press Institute, and PEN International. Press contacts: Bebe Santa-Wood press@cpj.org 212-300-9032 Realtors body National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO) has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to provide skill training and jobs in construction sector for 2.5 lakh poor people. The partnership will strengthen skill trainings and employment opportunities in construction sector for urban poor under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission. Key Facts The two objectives of this MoU are provide employment to urban poor waiting to enter construction sector and up-skill the semi-skilled construction workers working on construction sites to skilled category. NAREDCO will ensure implementation of this initiative through training providers. It will deliver majority of fresh and upskilling training programme at construction sites. The training curriculum under this initiative will range from minimum 10 days (80 hours) to maximum of 6 months. Through this collaboration around 2,50,000 urban poor will be trained. National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO) It is autonomous self-regulatory body under Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. It was established in 1998 and is headquartered in New Delhi. It serves as apex national body for real estate industry and provides single platform for Government, industry and public to discuss various problems and opportunities face to face for speedy resolution of issues. Its mandate also includes to induce transparency and ethics in real estate business and transform unorganized Indian real estate sector into matured and globally competitive business sector. A giant and 'highly hazardous' volcano in Iceland is showing signs that it could erupt on a scale that dwarfs the explosion that disrupted worldwide air travel eight years ago.Scientists have warned that Katla, a close neighbour to Eyjafjallajokull that erupted in 2010, is showing clear signs it's going to blow for the first time since 1918 and it's not a matter of if, but when.Katla's cone is hidden beneath a glacier on a 5,000ft peak, making monitoring its activity difficult but Icelandic and British scientists have found by airborne measurement techniques that Katla is releasing carbon dioxide on a 'huge' scale.There are over a hundred volcanoes on the central plateau which have not erupted in the past thousand years and between 30 and 40 that are active, meaning that they have erupted within last few centuries.On average, Iceland experiences a major volcanic event once every 5 years. Since the Middle Ages, a third of all the lava that has covered the earth's surface has erupted in Iceland.However, according to a recent geological hypothesis, this estimate does not include submarine eruptions, which are much more extensive than those on the land surface.The most famous and active volcano in Iceland is mount Hekla, which has erupted 18 times since 1104, the last time in 2000. Other active volcanoes, measured in terms of the number of eruptions besides Hekla, are Grimsvotn, Katla, Askja and Krafla. Katla, has erupted about 20 times since the settlement of Iceland.Iceland.isThis sort of activity indicates its magma chambers are filling and could signal a huge eruption.Sarah Barsotti, co-ordinator for volcanic hazards at the Icelandic Meteorological Office, told The Sunday Times: 'There is no way of telling when it will erupt, just that it will.'The translation of Katla is 'kettle' or 'boiler' and its 'overdue' eruption is likely to overshadow the eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano in 2010, which led to thousands of passengers being stranded as the ash plume from the volcano halted air traffic across all of Europe, with a domino effect across the world.Barsotti said the impact of the eruption on air travel 'depends on the intensity of the eruption and the direction of the winds at the time'.Evgenia Ilyinskaya, a research fellow in the Institute of Geophysics and Tectonics at Leeds University, said an eruption is overdue with Katla having previously erupted every 50 years on average pre-1918 when it last blew its top completely.Ilyinskaya and her fellow scientists whose report in to the volcano was published last week in the journal Geophysical Research Letters found that Katla was releasing between 12 and 24 kilotons of carbon dioxide every day.Only two other volcanoes in the world are known to emit more.'Through high-precision airborne measurements and atmospheric dispersion modelling, we show that Katla, a highly hazardous subglacial volcano which last erupted 100 years ago, is one of the largest volcanic sources of CO2 on Earth, releasing up to 5% of total global volcanic emissions,' they wrote.Ilyinskaya told The Sunday Times that the CO2 emissions from Katla were 'huge'. Because the magna would meet a 3,000ft-thick icecap, built up since it last erupted, even a small eruption was likely to cause a larger ash plume than Eyjafjallajokull's in 2010, she added.Ilyinskaya added that emissions increase well before eruptions, sometimes a matter of years, and we know this from studies on other huge volcanoes in Hawaii and Alaska.Last week she told the Icelandic national broadcasting service that the volume of CO2 indicated significant activity that could not be explained by normal geothermal activity.She said: 'There must also be a magma build-up to release this quantity of gas.'This is a clear sign we need to keep a close eye on Katla. She isn't just doing nothing, and these findings confirm that there is something going on.'Ilyinskaya and her team said that more studies were needed to confirm whether the amount of magma was increasing over time.Read more: Volcanoes Bangladesh: Improve HR condition in marine fisheries sector: Speakers October 03,2018 | Source: UNB Speakers at a seminar here have emphasised the importance of improving the human rights condition in the countrys marine fisheries sector as its contribution towards poverty eradication and food security is remarkable. Ocean provides critical ecosystem services and nutrition, and support human wellbeing and livelihoods, employment and economic growth, they said at the concluding session of a two-day multi-stakeholder seminar that ended on Monday. The seminar titled The contribution of human rights to the sustainable development of coastal fisheries and poverty alleviation in Bangladesh was organised marking the launching of a 30-month research project, supported by the Danish Institute for Human Rights (DIHR). The project, to be jointly implemented by Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF), Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies (BILS) and COAST Trust, aims to develop good practices, tools and guidance to identify, address and monitor the human rights implications and impacts of the fisheries and aquaculture sectors in Bangladesh. The project will also focus on responsible business and human rights, particularly in relation to Sustainable Development Goal 14 on Oceans. Chaired by MJF Executive Director Shaheen Anam, the concluding session was addressed, among others, by full-time member of Bangladesh Human Rights Commission Nazrul Islam, Director (Marine) of Marine Fisheries Office, Chattogram Dr AKM Aminul Haque and Professor of Chittagong Universitys Institute of Marine Science Dr Hossain Zamal. Effective collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, including the government and non-government organisations, should be ensured to improve human rights and good governance situations for Bangladesh fisher communities, said Nazrul Islam. Drawing attention to the widespread violations of women rights in the fisheries sector, Shaheen Anam urged for immediate introduction of human rights-based approaches in the sector to alleviate the sufferings of the community. Earlier at the inaugural session on Sunday, DIHR senior advisor Sille Stidsen highlighted global perspectives on sustainable oceans. The Bay of Bengal of Bangladesh is blessed with rich coastal and marine ecosystems and the recent solutions to longstanding maritime boundary disputes have paved the way for Bangladesh towards adopting ocean and water resource centric approaches towards pursuing economic development, she said. Another DIHR senior advisor Tulika Bansal unpacked the concept of sector-wise impact assessment approach which will be applied in Bangladeshs research project. Participants from the fisher community and Fishing Boat Owners Associations from Coxs Bazar and Barguna, including NGOs and CSOs, identified a number of challenges in the areas of livelihood, safety and security, labour rights, environmental and climate change, governance and trade, according to a media release. In January of 1982, Sister Helen Prejean became a pen pal to Elmo Patrick Sonnier, a death-row inmate who had been convicted, with his brother, of abducting a teen-age couple from a lover's lane, raping the woman, and shooting her and her partner in the back of the head. Sonnier was sentenced to death for the crime; his brother received a life sentence. As Prejean writes in "Dead Man Walking," first published 25 years ago, she is repulsed by his actions, but through their steady correspondence she cannot help but also think of him as a fellow human being. Soon she is not only exchanging letters with him, but visiting him in prison, where she learns that, although he was involved in the crime, it was his brother who committed the murders. When the date for his execution is set, Sister Helen agrees to become his spiritual advisor. She convinces lawyers to take his case, and meets the parents of his victims, who are eager to see the murderer of their children pay the ultimate price of "justice." As Prejean makes clear in "Dead Man Walking," at the root of this nation's commitment to justice is a belief that suffering is redemptive, especially when that suffering is inflicted by the state. "An eye for an eye" is the phrase Prejean hears each time she pleads for Sonniers life to be spared. It is repeated back to her not only by the victims' parents but by the governor, the warden of the prison, the head of the Department of Corrections, the District Attorney, and the chair of the Pardon Board, who refuses to stay Sonnier's execution. "Indeed," Justice Stewart wrote in the majority opinion in Gregg v. Georgia - the case, from 1976, that ended a national moratorium on executions and reinstated the death penalty - "certain crimes are themselves so grievous an affront to humanity that the only adequate response may be the penalty of death." Violence, according to this view, cleanses the world of violence. Murder becomes justice only when we do not call it murder. The tidy symmetry of "an eye for an eye" might appeal in theory, but Prejean makes clear that it is barbaric in practice. In 1984, in Louisiana's Angola prison, the preferred method of capital punishment is electrocution, but whether an execution occurs by way of hanging, firing squad, gas chamber, the electric chair, or lethal injection, and despite all efforts to make capital punishment "humane," there is, as Prejean writes, "one dimension of suffering that can never be eliminated": "the horror of being put to death against your will and the agony of anticipation." There is nothing "humane" about taking another person's life, she argues. It is nothing less than torture, and certainly nothing more. When the date of his execution arrives, Elmo Patrick Sonnier is fed his last meal and shaved - his head, eyebrows, and one of his legs - before he is diapered and led to the execution chamber in chains. He steps onto a podium to utter his last words, a plea for forgiveness, which plays through a speaker in the next room, where Sister Helen is seated among those watching the execution through a Plexiglas window. A team of guards secures Sonnier to the electric chair with leather straps. A metal cap is placed over his head; electrodes are attached to the cap and to his shaved leg. Another leather strap secures his chin, and a gray cloth covers his face. Sister Helen finds she cannot watch, and closes her eyes as 3 pulses of electricity enter his body: 1900 volts, 500 volts, then 1900 volts. A doctor rises from where he is seated to perform "the final check." She opens her eyes. Elmo Patrick Sonnier is dead. In 1993, "Dead Man Walking" spent 31 weeks on the New York Times best-seller list. The book was translated into ten languages, became a feature film starring Susan Sarandon as Sister Helen (a role for which she won the Academy Award for Best Actress), and, more importantly, ignited a national debate about capital punishment. Since then, public opinion about the death penalty has shifted. A Gallup poll conducted in 1991, 2 years before the book's release, showed that 76% of respondents approved of the death penalty for a person convicted of murder; in 2017, the most recent assessment, that number had dropped to 55 %. Since 1993, 7 states - New Jersey, New York, New Mexico, Illinois, Connecticut, Maryland, and Delaware - have overturned the death penalty, and the governors of 4 more - Oregon, Colorado, Washington, and Pennsylvania - have placed moratoria on executions. But elsewhere, in places like Texas, where I live, we have made somewhat less progress. On July 17th of this year, the state executed Chris Young for his part in a failed robbery of a gas station and the shooting death of its attendant, Hasmukh Patel. At the time of the shooting, Young was 21 years old, and had become involved in drugs and gang violence. Before his death, he expressed deep remorse for killing Patel and, ironically, found that he was able to turn his life around on death row, where he stopped a fellow-inmate's assault on a guard, prevented a suicide, and mentored troubled youth outside the prison walls. In a testimonial video recorded before his execution, he notes that coming to death row might have saved him from gang violence: "I'm actually happy I came here first, because the person I am today, I'm really, really satisfied with," he said. Moments later, he became the 8th person Texas has put to death this year by lethal injection, and the 553rd it has executed since Gregg v. Georgia. RELATED: Recommended films & documentaries And still the state continues. This past Wednesday, Texas executed Troy Clark; the next day, Daniel Acker. Both had consistently insisted that they were innocent of the murders for which they'd been sentenced to death. Clark's case, in particular, has drawn the attention of Sister Helen, who recently noted on Twitter that Clark's girlfriend confessed in detail to her part in the crime but recanted during the trial in exchange for a reduced sentence. Prejean has also described the tragedy of Clark's upbringing, the poverty that frayed both his future and his chance at a fair trial - a theme that echoes in her book. "Capital punishment, as practiced in the United States, is a poor man's punishment," she writes in "Dead Man Walking." "It is overwhelmingly poor people, who kill whites, who are sentenced to die." In this sense, America has not much changed. Now, as before, there are no rich men on death row. Moreover, in the past 25 years, it has become increasingly apparent that, while much of the country has evolved beyond the death penalty, the states that remain most committed to it are those that once practiced slavery. Both traditions flow from a fundamental lie: that some people are not human enough to make a legal claim on their own lives. There is no other logic to the death penalty as we administer it. The prosecution seeks the death penalty when it serves them, and agrees to a plea deal when the accused can afford a lawyer who can make the trial sufficiently complex. Justice barely factors into the equation. Capital Punishment It is morally easy to feel outrage when the state executes the innocent and the remorseful. But Prejean's challenge, in "Dead Man Walking," is to recognize the horror of executing any person, even one who is difficult to love. 6 months after the execution of Sonnier, Prejean decides to become a spiritual adviser to another death-row inmate, Robert Lee Willie - a man who is not only guilty of his crime but refuses to accept his part in it, blaming his accomplice, the justice system, and even the victims themselves. In television interviews, he declares himself a member of a white-supremacy group and a follower of Hitler. And yet Sister Helen is compelled to recognize his loneliness, his terror, and his humanity. At his execution, she forces herself to keep her eyes open, to not look away. "If we believe that murder is wrong and not admissible in our society, then it has to be wrong for everyone," Prejean writes, "not just individuals but governments as well." In the quarter-century since the publication of "Dead Man Walking," the evidence remains unchanged: executions do not prevent crime, and taking another person's life is a poor cure for inconsolable grief. Killing is always a moral crime, if not always a legal one. Near the end of her memoir, Sister Helen states her conviction that if executions were made public - if more people knew the truth of the act - "the torture and violence would be unmasked, and we would be shamed into abolishing executions." "Dead Man Walking" pulled back that mask. We cannot close our eyes. We must not look away. | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde 5 Iranian Kurds (Rojhilatis) were executed on Tuesday, among them a young woman who was handed the sentence as a teenager 2 years after her marriage, a rights group reported. "The Iranian authorities must urgently halt their plans to execute Zeinab Sekaanvand," Philip Luther, Amnesty International's Research and Advocacy Director for the Middle East and North Africa, pleaded on Monday after the announcement of the regimes plan was made. Luther highlighted "she was arrested when she was just 17 years old and sentenced to death for the murder of her husband, whom she married at the age of 15." "Not only was she a child at the time of the crime, she was subjected to a grossly unfair legal process." Along with Sekaanvand, 4 other Kurds were executed in Urmia Prison according to Hengaw, a group writing on human rights issues involving Kurds in Iran. Hengaw did not go into the details on the cases of the other detainees, only releasing the names of three: Changeez Irani, Mousa Jajilou, and Salman Alilou. According to Amnesty International, among the 23 countries that carried out death sentences in 2017, "Iran executed at least 507 people." At least 31 of those executions were public, and 5 of those executed were under 18 years old. These numbers account for more than 1/2 of all recorded executions in 2017. From March through September, Iran has hanged over 40 Iranian Kurds and sentenced just under a dozen other activists to death, Hengaw added. Other recent cases that garnered international attention were that of Ramin Hussein Panahi and 2 cousins Loghman and Zaniar Moradi who were executed on Sep. 08. | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde kurdistan24.net, October 2, 2018 Responding to the horrific news that 24-year-old Iranian Kurdish woman Zeinab Sekaanvand was executed early this morning in Urumieh central prison, West Azerbaijan province, Philip Luther, Amnesty Internationals Research and Advocacy Director for the Middle East and North Africa, said: RELATED: Female juvenile offender, two men hanged in Iran The execution of Zeinab Sekaanvand is a sickening demonstration of the Iranian authorities disregard for the principles of juvenile justice and international human rights law. Zeinab was just 17 years old at the time of her arrest. Her execution is profoundly unjust and shows the Iranian authorities contempt for the right of children to life. The fact that her death sentence followed a grossly unfair trial makes her execution even more outrageous. Zeinab Sekaanvand said that, soon after she was married at 15, she sought help many times from the authorities about her violent husband and alleged that her brother-in-law had raped her repeatedly. Instead of investigating these allegations, however, the authorities consistently ignored her and failed to provide her with any support as a victim of domestic and sexual violence. After the murder of her husband, Zeinab Sekaanvand said she was interrogated under torture by male police officers without a lawyer present. During her final trial session, where she was allowed a lawyer for the first time, she retracted her earlier confession that she had murdered her husband, saying that she had been coerced to make it. Despite this, the judge refused to order a further investigation and instead sentenced her to death. It appears the Iranian authorities are increasingly scheduling the execution of people who were children at the time of the crime at very short notice to minimize the possibility of effective public and private interventions. We are horrified by their continuous use of the death penalty against people who were under the age of 18 at the time of the crime, which is a violation of international human rights law. This is the fifth execution of a juvenile offender that we have recorded this year and we fear that it will not be the last unless urgent action is taken by the international community. We continue to urge the Iranian authorities to immediately establish an official moratorium on executions, commute all death sentences with a view to abolishing the death penalty, and prohibit the use of the death penalty against people below the age of 18 at the time of the crime. Background Zeinab Sekaanvands execution breaches Irans obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, both of which Iran has ratified, and both of which strictly prohibit the imposition of the death penalty on people under the age of 18 at the time of the crime. Zeinab Sekaanvand was moved out of her cell on 1 October and taken to solitary confinement in preparation for her execution. On 29 September, she was taken to the prisons medical clinic where staff performed a pregnancy test on her. The test result came back as negative on 30 September. Subsequently, Zeinab Sekaanvands family were contacted by prison authorities and told to go to the prison on 1 October for a final visit, when they were informed that she was scheduled for execution on 2 October. Zeinab Sekaanvand was sentenced to death under qesas (retribution in kind) in October 2014 after a grossly unfair trial before a criminal court in West Azerbaijan province, which convicted her of the murder of her husband. She was arrested in February 2012 at a police station where she confessed to the murder of her husband. She was held in the police station for the next 20 days where she said she was tortured by male police officers through beatings all over her body. She confessed that she stabbed her husband after he had subjected her to months of physical and verbal abuse and had refused her requests for divorce. She was only provided with a state-appointed lawyer at her final trial session, at which point she retracted her confession, telling the judge that her husbands brother, whom she said had raped her several times, had committed the murder. She said that he told her that, if she accepted responsibility, he would pardon her (under Islamic law, murder victims relatives have the power to pardon the offender and accept financial compensation instead). The court failed to investigate Zeinab Sekaanvands statements and, instead, relied on confessions she had made without a lawyer present to issue a death sentence. Although she was under 18 years old at the time of the crime, the court did not even apply the juvenile sentencing provisions of Irans own 2013 Islamic Penal Code, which gives judges the discretion to replace the death penalty with an alternative punishment if they determine that the juvenile offender did not understand the nature of the crime or its consequences, or that there were doubts about his or her mental growth and maturity at the time of the crime. Zeinab Sekaanvand came from a poor and conservative family and ran away from home when she was 15 years old to marry Hossein Sarmadi, who was four years older than her. She said that she saw her marriage to Hossein Sarmadi as the only opportunity she had for a better life. However, not long after the couple were married, she said her husband started abusing her verbally and physically, beating her regularly. She requested a divorce from him several times, but he refused. She registered many complaints with the police about the abuse, but the police consistently failed to conduct any investigation into her complaints. She also tried to return to her family but was disowned by them after she ran away. Amnesty International opposes the death penalty in all cases without exception regardless of the nature of the crime, the characteristics of the offender, or the method used by the state to kill the prisoner. | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde The High Court sentenced N. Sanderasegaran, 30, to death today for killing his 17-year-old girlfriend at a house in 2016. In delivering the verdict, Justice Datuk Che Mohd Ruzima Ghazali said the defence had failed to raise reasonable doubt against the prosecution. "The accused in his defence had claimed he and the victim were robbed and the robbers had beaten her to death. "This raise doubt as robbers would escape at the first given opportunity after committing a crime rather than sticking around the scene," he said. Che Mohd Ruzima also pointed out that only 2 sets of DNA -- of the accused and the victim -- were present at the scene. "There were no signs of a 3rd DNA at the scene," he said. He noted that the victim still had jewellery on her when a post-mortem examination was conducted, disproving the robbery claim. "It makes no sense for robbery but the jewellery was not taken. "If the robbers escaped empty-handed, what was the purpose of robbing in the first place?" he asked. "Hence, the court finds the defence failed to raise doubt against the prosecution's case and the accused is hereby convicted of the crime," he added. Sanderasegaran's 3 relatives present in court broke out in tears as the judge pronounced the death sentence. The unemployed Sanderasegaran was charged with killing S. Durga Devi at house number 4, Kampung Batu Besi in Ladang Sengat, Simpang Pulai between 11pm on February 27 and 6am on February 28, 2016. Deputy public prosecutors How May Ling and Irwan Suainbon prosecuted while Ranjit Singh Sandhu appeared for defence. The prosecution called a total of 12 witnesses while the defence called 3 witnesses. Ranjit said he would appeal against the decision. Durga's aunt G. Tamal Sellvi, 37, was also present for the sentencing. "A life for a life," she said. She added that the family had been praying daily that the accused be given a sentence befitting his crime. | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde malaymail.com, October 2, 2018 3 followers of the Baha'i faith in Yemen have reportedly been sentenced to death by a court controlled by the rebel Houthi movement. The Baha'i community in the UK said the unnamed individuals had been convicted of espionage and apostasy. They were being tried alongside 21 other people by a judge who sentenced a Baha'i man to death last January. Baha'i representative Diane Alai said they had been "falsely and maliciously accused under absurd pretexts". She urged the international community to "condemn these baseless actions in the strongest possible terms and call for the immediate release of all detained Baha'is". In a speech in March, rebel leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi denounced the Baha'i faith as "satanic" and claimed it was "waging a war of doctrine" against Islam. The Baha'i faith was founded in Iran in the mid-19th Century by Mirza Husayn Ali, a man known as "Baha'ullah" ("Glory of God"). Baha'is believe that all the founders of the world's major religions have been manifestations of God and agents of a progressive divine plan for the education of humanity, and that Baha'ullah is the most recent manifestation of God. Today, there are an estimated 5 million Baha'is worldwide. There are only a few thousand in Yemen, where 99% of the 27 million population is Muslim. The Houthi movement has cracked down on Baha'is since its supporters drove the Western-backed government of President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa and seized control of much of western Yemen in 2015. The UN has said Bahai's living in rebel territory have faced a "persistent pattern of persecution", including harassment and arbitrary detention. In January, UN human rights experts urged the Houthi-led authorities to annul a death sentence handed down against a Baha'i man, Hamid Kamali bin Haydara, who was accused of "compromising the independence of the Republic of Yemen" and spreading the Baha'i faith in the country. A number of trials against Mr bin Haydara, including the one during which the death sentence was imposed, took place without him being present, and his lawyer was not given the opportunity to contest the evidence presented against him. The Baha'i Community of the UK said the judge who convicted Mr bin Haydara had also sentenced to death the 3 other Bahai's on Saturday. They were among 24 Bahai's, including 8 women and a teenage girl, who went on trial last month on the charges of spying for a foreign state and apostasy. There was no immediate confirmation from the Houthi authorities, but on Saturday the rebel-run Saba news agency reported that a court in Sanaa had sentenced 3 men to death for "collaborating with a foreign country". It said one man was accused of seeking to recruit people to fight for Saudi Arabia, which is leading a coalition of Arab states supporting Yemen's government in its war with the Houthis, and that the other 2 allegedly provided military information. | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde BBC News, October 2, 2018 Four years ago, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Swachchh Bharat Mission to achieve the vision of a Clean India by 2019. Fittingly, 2 October 2019 is also the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who championed sanitation as a national priority. Over the last four years, India has made great progress, building more than 86 million toilets for households, and declaring nearly half a million (470,000) villages free of open defecation. Singapore has travelled this journey too. Since independence, we have worked hard to create a clean and green living environment for our people. In the early days, many homes were not sewered. Nightsoil was collected in buckets, and transported by malodorous trucks to sewerage plants. Often the human waste was dumped into nearby streams and rivers, polluting and poisoning the waters. Unsanitary living conditions created many public health problems, including frequent outbreaks of waterborne diseases. Our founding fathers resolved to act decisively. They launched a national campaign to Keep Singapore Clean. We sewered up every home, cleaned up our rivers, and made Singapore a clean and green city. In particular, we cleaned up the Singapore River. In the process we had to clear thousands of squatters, backyard industries, pig farms, and countless other sour-ces of pollution in the catchment of the river. Today, a clean Singapore River flows through the city into Marina Reservoir, which feeds into our national water supply. India is a country on a vastly different scale from Singapore. The River Ganga is almost a thousand times longer than the Singapore River. Yet there are some parallels in Singapore's and Indias sanitation journeys. First, both countries experiences demonstrate the importance of vision and leadership. The late Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew and Prime Minister Modi both made it a priority to keep the country clean and green. They personally led public campaigns to raise awareness and mobilise the masses. Both picked up brooms, and joined the people to clean the streets. Prime Minister Modi has said that Mr Lee was a personal inspiration, and that he had drawn from Mr Lees idea that transformation of a nation begins with a change in the way we are. Indeed, the Swachchh Bharat Mission is not just a programme to clean Indias environment, but a deeper reform to transform the way we think, live and work. Second, success requires long-term national commitment. Singapore implemented a Sewerage Master Plan to separate our sewerage and drainage networks. The aim was to prevent rainwater from being contaminated, so that it could be collected and used. At the same time, Singapore recycles used water from sewage treatment plants, purifying it through reverse osmosis, to produce NEWater, an ultra-clean, high-grade water fit for drinking. We took one problem: what to do with used water, and turned it into a solution to another problem: water scarcity. In India, the nationwide push to implement the Swachchh Bharat Mission with key stakeholders, such as industry and schools, has shown promising results. The 2018 Unicef Drinking Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Schools: Global Basel-ine Report highlighted that almost all schools in India have sanitation facilities built, compared to just 50 per cent of schools in 2006. Third, both Singapore and India value international cooperation. The same solution may not work in a different country, but we can all benefit by lear-ning from others and sharing experiences. I congratulate India on successfully hosting the inaugural Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention, which has brought together leaders, practitioners, and experts from around the world to share their sanitation stories. Singapore too hosts international forums such as the biennial World Cities Summit and Singapore International Water Week. In 2013, to raise awareness of the global sanitation challenge, the UN adopted Singapores resolution Sanitation for All, to commemorate 19 November as World Toilet Day. Singapore is happy to share experiences with India as it continues to develop more liveable and sustainable Smart Cities across the country. Singapore has collaborated with Indias Town and Country Planning Organisation to train a hundred officials in urban planning, and water and waste management. Sing-apore also looks forward to cooperating with states like Andhra Pradesh and Maha-rashtra to provide urban solutions as they develop their cities. I wish Prime Minister Modi and the People of India the very best in the Swachchh Bharat Mission to Clean India. I also look forward to further cooperation between our two countries to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goal of clean water and sanitation for our peoples for generations to come. H10 Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, right, meets Pakistani Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi at the State Department in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (Photo | AP) Washington: There is unlikely to be any changes in America's policy on suspension of aid to Pakistan until it makes substantial progress against terrorists and their safe havens, the Trump administration has told Islamabad as the two countries try to reset their strained ties. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, during their meetings with Pakistan's new Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi here, are understood to have told the Pakistani leadership that in its assessment the US does not see any changes on the ground when it comes to taking actions against terrorists operating from its soil. Given Pakistan's influence over the Taliban, the Trump administration also wants Islamabad to bring them to the peace table. Notably, the State Department till late in the night had refrained from issuing any readout of the meeting between Qureshi and Pompeo, which is understood to have lasted for 20 minutes at their Foggy Bottom headquarters. The White House normally does not issue a readout of the meeting that its National Security Advisor has with foreign leaders. Qureshi and Pompeo did appear for a hand-shake photo op before the meeting, during which they did not issue opening remarks. According to informed sources familiar with the development, the US side is upset because of Qureshi's faux pas about handshake he had with President Donald Trump during a luncheon in New York, which he described to the media as meeting. Meanwhile in a readout of the meetings, the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington said that Qureshi had a wide range of discussions with both Pompeo and Bolton which included among others bilateral and regional issues. Qureshi said that close engagement between Pakistan and the US had always been mutually beneficial and a factor for stability in South Asia. He stressed that, going forward, a broad-based and structured framework for dialogue would best serve the two countries' shared interests, the statement said. Noting that Pakistan and the US share a common desire for peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region at large, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's support for a political settlement in Afghanistan, saying use of force had failed to deliver results. Qureshi told Pompeo that "peace in South Asia, which was a common goal for both the US and Pakistan, would remain elusive until all disputes, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir, are resolved". Pompeo, according to the embassy statement, said the US looked forward to working with the new government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan in implementing its reform agenda. "In the context of achieving stability in South Asia, Qureshi briefed his US interlocutor about India's aggressive posturing in the region. "Qureshi underscored that, on its part, Pakistan remained committed to engaging India in a comprehensive peace dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute," the statement added. The ties between the two countries strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists. Last month, the Trump administration cancelled USD 300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups active on its soil. The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of President Xi Jinping aimed at enhancing China's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects. (Photo: AP | File) Islamabad: In a U-turn, Pakistan has announced that its close ally Saudi Arabia would not join the USD 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, days after Islamabad said Riyadh will be the third "strategic partner" of China's flagship project, the Belt and Road Initiative. The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of President Xi Jinping aimed at enhancing China's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects. Minister for Planning and Development Khusro Bakhtiar told media on Tuesday that the cash-rich kingdom's proposed investments would fall under a separate bilateral arrangement, Dawn news reported. "Saudi Arabia is not to become a collateral strategic partner in the CPEC. This impression is not true," he said. A third country can participate in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by taking part in the business and investment ventures arising out of the project, Bakhtiar said. "The framework between China and Pakistan is bilateral and Saudi Arabia is not entering that framework as a third-party investor, rather the base of the CPEC will be broadened and its pace will be expedited," he said. Last month, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said that Saudi Arabia is the third "strategic partner" of the CPEC, soon after Prime Minister Imran Khan returned from his first foreign trip to the kingdom. Interestingly Chaudhry was sitting with Bakhtiar when he issued clarification that Saudi Arabia participation in the CPEC was not as third partner in the project. Bakhtiar further said that there was no decision to bring a third country, like Saudi Arabia, under the framework of the CPEC. He was responding to questions about the possibility of Saudi Arabia becoming part of the Joint Working Groups or Joint Coordination Committee on the CPEC. Bakhtiar said there could be many offshoots of the CPEC where third countries could be involved in trilateral arrangement for infrastructure development, like China-Pakistan-Japan, China-Pakistan-Saudi Arabia or China-Pakistan-Germany. The minister dodged questions when asked how the cost of Main Railway Line (ML-I) had been reduced by USD 2 billion from USD 8.2 billion to USD 6.2 billion as claimed by Railways Minister Shaikh Rasheed Ahmed. "I have noticed this today that Sheikh Rasheed is making some efforts (to reduce the cost) but not to my knowledge. Nothing has come in front of me to suggest that the cost has come down," he said. Bakhtiar said the CPEC portfolio currently stands at about USD 50 billion, of which about USD 6 billion was government-to-government loan and remaining in Independent Power Producers mode mostly in the energy sector. About USD 29 billion worth of projects were currently in progress. He said the CPEC had far bigger potential than USD 50 billion and would keep expanding with time as new projects come up but the previous government treated and played it like a T-20 match instead of a five-day test series and focused mostly on projects which could be completed during its tenure. Currently, a Saudi delegation is in Pakistan for initial assessment to capitalise on the Pakistani offer. India has opposed the CPEC project and protested to China as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The plot of prime land at 8-12 Le Duan Street, HCMC, will be auctioned. Photo by VnExpress/Nhu Quynh HCMC authorities are set to repossess and auction a 5,000-square-meter plot of prime land that had been sold illegally by local officials. After the Government Inspectorate uncovered the fraud, city authorities said they would take disciplinary action against all individuals and organizations, including retired officials, for illegally selling the land at 8-12 Le Duan Street, District 1, at cheap prices. Head of the Peoples Committee Office, Vo Van Hoan, told VnExpress the city Department of Natural Resources and Environment has been assigned to repossess the land and action it. In 2007 the land had been managed by the Ho Chi Minh City House Trade Management Company, which leased it to four joint stock companies, majority-owned by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. Later, instead of organizing an auction to sell the land, city authorities allowed Lavenue Investment Corp. to develop a mixed-use project comprising luxury residences, boutique retail outlets and a five-star hotel on the land. Lavenue Investment Corp.s shareholders are the Ho Chi Minh City House Trade Management Company, which owns 50 percent, and the four companies, each with a 12.5 percent stake. But soon the four companies sold their rights to develop the project to a private company and made a windfall profit. No construction has been made on the project site to date. The Government Inspectorate asked the city authorities to repossess the land and take disciplinary action for the violations committed by various departments, agencies and individuals including former Peoples Committee Vice C hairman Nguyen Thanh Tai. A sum of VND200 billion ($8.62 million) that the four companies received for the sale must also be appropriated, the inspectors said. The two-kilometer-long Le Duan Street, which runs perpendicular to Thong Nhat (Reunification) Palace, has mainly government offices, schools and a church, and is one of the most prime locations in the downtown area. Amazon has been hosting a number of training courses for Vietnamese sellers. Photo by Reuters E-commerce giants Amazon and Alibaba are looking to sign up more Vietnamese sellers for their online marketplace. U.S.-owned Amazon last month collaborated with the Vietnam E-commerce Association (VECOM) to organize a workshop called Selling Globally on Amazon in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The events attracted over 2,000 people each. Since March Amazon has been partnering with VECOM to host a number of training courses and workshops for sellers. It has launched a website and an official Facebook fanpage in Vietnamese to connect with individuals and businesses who want to sell their products on its network. Park Joonmo, CEO of Amazon Global Selling Korea and Southeast Asia, said there is an increasing number of Vietnamese sellers on Amazon, including manufacturers, brand owners and startups. They have started selling globally through Amazon to reach millions of potential customers all over the world, he said in a statement. Around 200 Vietnamese businesses are selling on Amazon, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade. Experts said this number could rise greatly since Vietnam is a major exporter of items such as agriculture produce, foods and furniture. Chinas Alibaba has also been looking for Vietnamese sellers on its AliExpress website since July. AliExpress executive Yang Ninh said Vietnam is one of the most diverse manufacturers in the world, and its growth makes it an important destination for Alibaba. AliExpress wants to open the door for Vietnam to over 200 markets around the world, he added. Vietnam's e-commerce market grew by 25 percent last year, according to VECOM, which forecasts this rate to continue until 2020. A Vietnam Coast Guard ship began its maiden visit to India Tuesday, aiming to strengthen cooperation in addressing maritime security threats. The CBS 8001 reached the coast of Chennai City after traveling 3,575 nautical miles from Hanoi, the New Indian Express reported. Major-General Nguyen Van Son, Commandant of Vietnam Coast Guard, and Inspector-General Paramesh Sivamani, Commander of Indias Coast Guard Eastern Region, welcomed the ship and its crew. The four-day maiden visit aims to strengthen cooperation between the two countries, particularly in tackling maritime security threats, including human trafficking, piracy and drugs and firearms smuggling, the report said. The two countries Coast Guards will take part in a joint exercise off Chennai Thursday to promote inter-operability between the two forces. Five ships, one helicopter and one Dornier aircraft from the Indian Coast Guard will participate in the exercise, which will include the visiting Vietnamese Coast Guard ship and the research vessel Sagar Manjusha from Indias National Institute of Ocean Technology. Previously on Monday, a six-member delegation from Vietnam, headed by Son, had arrived in Chennai to witness the upcoming joint exercise. Last Thursday, Destroyer INS Rana of the Indian navy docked at Saigon Port for a three-day visit. The vessel carried out communications and coordination exercises at sea with Vietnamese naval vessels during its stay. This is the second time this year that the Indian navy has sent a vessel to Vietnam after a fleet of three Indian ships with 900 officers and sailors arrived at Tien Sa Port, Da Nang, in central Vietnam in May. Long-standing allies Vietnam and India established diplomatic relations in 1972. Residents stand in front of a damaged shopping mall after an earthquake hit Palu, Sulawesi Island, Indonesia, September 29, 2018. Photo by Antara Foto/Rolex Malaha via Reuters Vietnam will hand over $100,000 in aid to Indonesia as it deals with the quake-tsunami disaster on Sulawesi Island. The donation is aimed at helping Indonesia to overcome the consequences of the disaster, Vietnams Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Tuesday. The 7.5-magnitude earthquake last Friday triggered tsunami waves as high as six meters (20 feet), which swept ashore at the small city of Palu and Donggala town on the west coast of Sulawesi. The death toll from the disaster has jumped to 1,374 Wednesday morning, Reuters reported, citing the national disaster mitigation agency, adding that the figure could rise even higher as many people are trapped under the wreckage. More than 65,000 houses have been damaged, and at least 60,000 people are homeless. Rescue efforts in the hardest-hit areas in Sulawesi have been hampered by poor infrastructure and lack of modern facilities. Hundreds of police and rescue officers are racing against time to search for those still missing. Ten Vietnamese students in Palu, which was hardest hit by the disaster, were sent to the capital of Jakarta safely on Monday, the Vietnamese Embassy in Indonesia said. The students were in their dormitory when the earthquake hit. They made their escape before the building collapsed. The Party's Central Committee has nominated General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong to be the country's next president. The committee voted on Wednesday to introduce Trong as a candidate for the head of state post to Vietnams legislative National Assembly, which will be in sesssion between October 21 and November 19. No other candidates have been proposed for the job. Vice President Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh is currently the acting President, serving as Vietnam's first female head of state, after President Tran Dai Quang passed away September 21 due to a serious illness. This is the first time in many years that a Party's General Secretary is recommended by the Central Committee to the National Assembly to serve as the president. The President is countrys top representative in both internal and external affairs, commander-in-chief of the military, entitled to appoint or dismiss the deputy prime ministers, ministers, and advise the National Assembly to do the same with the country's vice president, prime minister, top judge and top prosecutor. Vietnam is now led by four pillars: its president, prime minister, Party chief and the national assembly chair. If approved, Trong will become the first Vietnamese leader to be the head of state and the Party since founding president and revolutionary Ho Chi Minh. Trong, born 1944 in Hanoi, studied Literature in university and spent many years working for the Communist Review, the political agency of Vietnam's Communist Party, and was its editor in chief between 1991 and 1996. He served as Hanoi's Party Secretary between 2000 and 2006, before chairing Vietnam's National Assembly for two consecutive terms. He became a standing member of the Politburo, the Party's decision-making body, in 1999. In 2011, he became the General Secretary of the Party's Central Committee, and was reelected to the position in 2016. For several years, Trong has spearheaded a crackdown on corruption that has seen scores of top businesspeople and government leaders face criminal probe or even trial over allegations of financial mismanagement and embezzlement. The biggest casualty of the campaign so far is Dinh La Thang, a dismissed member of the now 17-strong Politburo, who is serving 30 years in jail for violations when he was chairman of the state oil giant PetroVietnam. Trong's presidency nomination was made during the 8th plenum of the 12th Central Committee, a key Party gathering held between Tuesday and Saturday to discuss major issues including Party personnel, socio-economic development and national maritime strategy. Punishments for several top officials are also expected to be announced at the meeting, joined by 223 senior Party members. Vietnam to host first bike race through three countries This years Nam Ky Khoi Nghia bike race course will run through Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia in 12 stages. The annual Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Bike Race will go international for the first time by including Laos and Cambodia on its routes. The race will last 12 days, from December 10 to 22. Tentatively, it will have 12 stages with a total length of 1,750 kilometers (1,080 miles). It will start from Ho Chi Minh City and proceed around 150 kilometers (93 miles) north to the Hoa Lu border checkpoint in Binh Phuoc Province, and then go through Kratie and Stung Treng in Cambodia. Racers will then cover three provinces in Laos: Champasak, Sekong and Attapeu. From Attapeu province, racers will ride back to Pleiku in Vietnam's Central Highlands; then continue with more stages, going past Buon Me Thuot, Nha Trang and Da Lat to return to Ho Chi Minh City. This year, the race is being hosted by HCMC broadcaster VOH. Strong teams from Laos and Cambodia will take part in the race, along with Vietnamese competitors, organizers said. Vietnam has earlier hosted two bike races that covered two countries. The first one was in 2006, which included Laos, and the second was in 2007, when it covered Cambodia. The Hoa Dat cafes unassuming, quiet elegance is the right ambience to enjoy a drink and listen to timeless music. On Huynh Tan Phat Street in District 7, the cafe is just a 15 minute drive away from the city center. The two-storied building has an area of 150 square meters with a parking basement. Customers visit the cafe, have a drink or a meal, listen to Trinh Cong Sons music or Vietnamese bolero music slow, romantic songs, and capture their memories with photos. The cafe opens from 6.30 a.m. to 10 p.m everyday. The owners of the cafe, Tran Viet Van and his wife Chien, were looking everywhere for a perfect spot to open the cafe when they stumbled on to this place. The former owner of the cafe, originally from Hue, transferred to Van the whole place, which is built like a typical brick house. The cafe interior is a simple and harmonious combination of wooden furniture, brick walls painted yellow and iron frames. The tables and chairs have two basic colors: orange and black. Every wooden piece is varnished. Van said, the elderly in the neighborhood enjoying meeting friends here to talk or to play chess. Van and Chien said they give priority to quality and taste of the drinks they sell, including coffee, tea, juices, smoothies and other blended drinks. This includes the famous egg coffee and egg matcha (Japanese green tea) from the north, coconut coffee and coconut chocolate. Prices range from VND20,000 to 35,000 ($0.85-1.50). The cafe also offers a lunch set at VND32,000 ($1.37). A manual coffee grinder stands in front of the bar. "This type of machine is not easy to find in the market now," said Van. When visitors come for coffee and take photos of this machine, he shows them how to grind coffee with it. Two Scottish tourists, Marian and Kenneth, praised the egg coffee brewed here. Chien flew from Saigon to Hanoi to attend a month-long brewing class, Van said. The couple said they hoped that customers would like the typical Hanoian egg coffee served in the southern city. Some of the retro artifacts in the cafe include watches, irons, phones and cassette player cum radios. Bui Thi Lan Anh, who studied in Hanoi and stays in Saigon, said that though she did not usually drink coffee, she liked the smell of coffee here. She also loved the green side of the cafe. "Seeing the green buds rise in the sunshine after the rain near the door frame, I feel relaxed, and it eases the pressure inside me," she said. Van said that in the future, he would build a flower truss for customers to have a more beautiful setting to take photographs in the cafe. Goods exports from Ukraine grow to almost US$27 bln in seven months The EU was Ukraine's largest trading partner over the period under review. If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+Enter What do you think about our new website? Share your opinion The expert will provide practical tools and examples of risk assessment of information security systems. On October 1011, an expert from Austria will visit Ukraine to share knowledge with employees of the information security department of the Central Bank of Ukraine. Read alsoUkraine's cyber police report constant cyberattacks from Russia They will learn about security measures that are required to enhance the cyber-resilience of their institution, EU Neighbours reported. The expert will also provide practical tools and examples of risk assessment of information security systems to enable the beneficiary to control and evaluate the efficiency of its information security. The visit is being organized by the European Commission's Technical Assistance and Information Exchange Instrument (TAIEX), in cooperation with the National Bank of Ukraine. Ukraine demands from Russia 30,000 railcars stolen in Donbas According to the official, 85 railcars were bought by Ukraine under the EBRD loan. If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+Enter Ukraine to sell state stake in power giant Centrenergo for at least US$225.5 mln The tender for the sale of the company's shares will be held in late November 2018. If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+Enter NABU: Buyers of electricity from thermal stations overpay US$536 mln due to illegal Rotterdam Plus formula The final decision will be made after expert evaluation. If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+Enter A Trade War Lesson for Carbon Taxes Oren Cass, E21 Last month, President Trump announced that his administration was placing a 10 percent tariff on $200 billion of Chinese imports. Defending that decision, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross argued that, Because its spread over thousands and thousands of products, nobodys going to actually notice it at the end of the day. The problem with this thinking, as National Reviews Ramesh Ponnuru highlighted succinctly, was its implication that tariffs on China are at once big enough to force it to make changes and too small to affect American consumers. Read more here.... UCOM keeps on supporting the 42 YEREVAN programming school Recognizing the One-Year Anniversary of the Ceasefire Declaration Between Armenia and Azerbaijan They should not be positioned near civilian communities neither in Armenia nor in Artsakh Humanitarian and human rights protection needed following the 2020 outbreak of hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh Google Ad Galaxy Group of Companies expands its activities in Belarus: a new TIME and Pandora store launched I think its a good moment to invest in Armenia. Head of Markets at Symbiotics Vincent Lehner Ameriabank has Raised USD 17.5M Tier 2 Capital UNIGHT TO UNITE. UCOM CELEBRATED ITS REBIRTH Ameriabank and HSBC Armenia to provide their customers access to each others ATMs without additional fees Ameriabank. 62.5% Growth in Taxes YOY Mikayel and Karen Vardanyans have provided 300 million AMD to overcome the infertility in Armenia UCOM has officially launched the sale of IPHONE 13 Six servicemen were wounded by the attack of the Azerbaijani armed forces in Artsakh, two of them in critical condition S&P Improved the Outlook on Ameriabank to Positive Ararat Mirzoyan to visit to Minsk Foreign Minister of India visits the Memorial of Armenian Genocide Google Ad 1217 new cases Global Finance Names Ameriabank the Safest Bank in Armenia Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group At UCOM only: Tv sets at 10% discount + 1 month free UMIX package + 4k tv channel Ameriabanks Special Offer for New Clients of Hrazdan Branch "Fall forward": Gurgen Khachatryan, the Co-Founder of the Galaxy Group of Companies, addressed a message to young people in Armenia UCOM hosted interns of Russian CBOSS corporation for a month The 20-episode Bloody bet thriller to be broadcast on Ucom's Armenia Premium TV channel Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group UCOM offers affordable gadgets at bigger discount Foreign Minister of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan will pay a working visit to New York Governments preventing publication of Haykakan Zhamanak newspaper during state of emergency UCOM prolongs the unlimited internet offer for the level up 4700 and level up 5500 subscribers Brujas-Atletico de Madrid 2-0 (01-03-1978) Atletico de Madrid met Club Brugge in the quarter finals of the European Cup in March 1978. In the first leg, in Belgium, the Rojiblancos with Luis Aragones in charge lost 2-0 with Courant and Cubber scored either side of the interval. It wasn't Atleti's night - they had a goal disallowed and Marcial missed a penalty. Photo: Update: 03/10/2018 14:19 Brujas-Atletico de Madrid 2-0 (01-03-1978) Atletico de Madrid met Club Brugge in the quarter finals of the European Cup in March 1978. In the first leg, in Belgium, the Rojiblancos with Luis Aragones in charge lost 2-0 with Courant and Cubber scored either side of the interval. It wasn't Atleti's night - they had a goal disallowed and Marcial missed a penalty. Photo: Update: 03/10/2018 14:19 Brujas-Atletico de Madrid 2-0 (01-03-1978) Atletico de Madrid met Club Brugge in the quarter finals of the European Cup in March 1978. In the first leg, in Belgium, the Rojiblancos with Luis Aragones in charge lost 2-0 with Courant and Cubber scored either side of the interval. It wasn't Atleti's night - they had a goal disallowed and Marcial missed a penalty. Photo: Update: 03/10/2018 14:19 Brujas-Atletico de Madrid 2-0 (01-03-1978) Atletico de Madrid met Club Brugge in the quarter finals of the European Cup in March 1978. In the first leg, in Belgium, the Rojiblancos with Luis Aragones in charge lost 2-0 with Courant and Cubber scored either side of the interval. It wasn't Atleti's night - they had a goal disallowed and Marcial missed a penalty. Photo: Update: 03/10/2018 14:19 Brujas-Atletico de Madrid 2-0 (01-03-1978) Brugge XI versus Atletico. 1 March 1978: Jensen; Bastinjs, Krieger, Leekans, Volders; Cool, Van der Eycken, De Cubber, Lambert (Verheechen 80); Courant and Sorensen. Photo: Update: 03/10/2018 14:19 Brujas-Atletico de Madrid 2-0 (01-03-1978) Atletico XI vs Brugge. 1 March 1978: Reina; Marcelino, Pereira, Eusebio, Ruiz (Aguilar 50); Leal, Leivinha, Marcial, Alberto; Ruben Cano and Ayala. Photo: Update: 03/10/2018 14:19 Atletico de Madrid-Brujas 3-2 (15-03-1978) Atleti did everything they could to turn the tie around at the Calderon with 65,000 supporters behind them for the return leg on 15 March 1978. Domingo Benegas and Marcial put the hosts 2-0 in front but the atmosphere cooled when Julien Cools pulled one back for the Belgians ahead (appeals for offside were turned down). Marcial made it 3-1 which meant Atleti only needed one goal but it was all over when Raoul Lambert grabbed a second for the visitors on 68 minutes. Brugge knocked Juventus out at the semi-final stage but lost the final to Liverpool at Wembley. Photo: Update: 03/10/2018 14:19 Atletico de Madrid-Brujas 3-2 (15-03-1978) Atleti did everything they could to turn the tie around at the Calderon with 65,000 supporters behind them for the return leg on 15 March 1978. Domingo Benegas and Marcial put the hosts 2-0 in front but the atmosphere cooled when Julien Cools pulled one back for the Belgians ahead (appeals for offside were turned down). Marcial made it 3-1 which meant Atleti only needed one goal but it was all over when Raoul Lambert grabbed a second for the visitors on 68 minutes. Brugge knocked Juventus out at the semi-final stage but lost the final to Liverpool at Wembley. Photo: Update: 03/10/2018 14:19 Atletico de Madrid-Brujas 3-2 (15-03-1978) Atletico XI vs Club Brugge. 15 March 1978: Pacheco; Marcelino, Benegas, Pereira, Capon, Aguilar, Marcial, Leivinha; Ayala, Ruben Cano and Rubio. Photo: Update: 03/10/2018 14:19 The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved the starting price of a 78.289% stake in PJSC Centrenergo, an electricity generating company, at UAH 5.985 billion. "We approve the resolution, clause 5.11, instructing the State Property Fund of Ukraine to review it in three days, according to the rules, jointly with the Finance Ministry, Economic Development and Trade Ministry and Justice Ministry," Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman said at a government meeting on Wednesday. As reported, earlier an advisor to privatize PJSC Centrenergo Ernst & Young z Corporate Finance sp.k (the Polish division of EY), proposed that the starting price of a 78.3% stake in the electricity generating company is set at $225.479 million. Along with this, the draft resolution, among the conditions for the sale of the state-owned shares of this company, proposes to approve the obligation to take into account the recommendations of the environmental audit conducted on May 16, 2018 by order of the State Property Fund of Ukraine, and also to send dividends accrued on the stake of shares purchased during the privatization owned by the state before its sale. In addition to the standard requirements for the potential buyer in the form of timely payment of taxes and fees, preventing arrears of wages, creating fuel reserves for the full operation of the TPP, maintaining the equipment through repairs, there is a condition for the possible operation of the company in the European network of transmission system operators are provided electricity (ENTSO-E). The Interdepartmental Commission on International Trade of Ukraine (ICIT) is ready to make a decision on the investigation regarding syringes imported into Ukraine from India, Turkey and China. The investigation of ICIT was initiated in October 2017 following the consideration of the complaint of two manufacturers of medical devices Hemoplast, JSC (Odessa Oblast) and Tyumen-Medico-Smila, PJSC (TMS, Cherkasy Oblast). The companies were motivated by the growth of the cumulative part of imports from India, Turkey and China in 2015-2016 regarding consumption by 13% and 120% respectively. At the same time, the production volumes of Hemoplast and TMS during this period decreased by 19% and 35% respectively, and the volume of sales in the domestic market by 14% and 30%. Hemoplast and TMS noted that syringes from India, Turkey and China have been imported to Ukraine in such quantities and under such conditions that could lead to harm to the national producer. As reported before, Hemoplast increased its net loss by 4.8 times in 2017, up to 260.4 million UAH. Hemoplast manufactures disposable syringes, blood and medical solution transfusion products, catheters, probes, medical and laboratory products, as well as non-medical plastic products. The ultimate beneficiaries of the company according to the state register are Ruslan Zozulya and Nataliya Prodan. Tyumen-Medico-Smila, PJSC reduced the net loss by 33% in 2017 compared with 2016 to 1.916 million UAH. The net income from sales of products amounted to 2 million UAH. As of the end of 2016, 62% of the shares of Tyumen-Medico-Smila belonged to Mulready Ventures Limited (UK), 38% of the shares were owned by the State Property Fund of Ukraine. Both companies collectively occupy about three quarters of the Ukrainian market of the syringes production. A number of media noted that both companies are affiliated with billionaire Konstantin Zhevago. In the past, Hemoplast and Tyumen-Medico-Smila repeatedly appealed to the ICIT and the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade with the request to introduce protective duties on the import of syringes. The precedent for restricting the import of relevant products was created in 2001, when ICIT initiated, at the initiative of Hemoplast, quotas on the import of syringes from Russia, Slovakia, Belgium, Ireland, Poland, Germany and Spain for four years. In 2008 at the initiative of Hemoplast and Tyumen-Medico-Smila companies ICIT initiated an anti-dumping investigation against the import into Ukraine of polymer syringes from Spain (Becton Dickinson SA), Germany (Vogt Medical and B. Braun), United Kingdom (Medical Project) and China (Changzhou Heshou Medical Appliance Factory), which resulted to introduction of protective duties, which gave the national manufacturers significant market preferences. As a result German and British manufacturers left the Ukrainian market, and the market share of Chinese and Spanish syringes was significantly reduced. Currently another syringe manufacturer, Yury-Farm, LLC (Cherkasy), works in Ukraine. Economic performance indicators of Yury-Farm, LLC during 2014-2017 demonstrated stable growth despite competition with imported counterparts. The United States Ambassador to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchinson in Brussels has reiterated her call for Hungary to stop obstructing the Alliances cooperation with Ukraine, the Voice of America Ukrainian Service has reported. "The United States certainly supports a NATO Ukraine Commission. We have urged and will continue to urge Hungary not to oppose that," she said. American representatives continued to point out that Budapest should not abuse its position as a member of the North Atlantic Alliance to resolve disputes with other countries. "It is important. Ukraine is one of the key partners, allies that we have that we are working to bring into a stable government. The Russians are defying that. We want to be strong and I think all of NATO does, to help the Ukrainians get the independence that they have already started for themselves. In Maidan, they did a wonderful outreach to their own people for wanting to be in EU and in NATO and we want to do everything to help them in that quest," she said. Russia's hybrid military forces have mounted 34 attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas in the past 24 hours, including eight times with the use of weapons prohibited by the Minsk agreements, with one Ukrainian soldier reported as killed in action (KIA) and another two as wounded in action (WIA), the press centre of the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) has reported. "Militants launched 34 attacks on Ukrainian army positions over the day, and weapons prohibited by the Minsk Agreements were used in eight incidents. One soldier was killed, and two were wounded in those attacks," the JFO staff said on Facebook on Wednesday morning. Foreign Minister of Ukraine Pavlo Klimkin unequivocally declares his intention to expel the Hungarian consul in the town of Berehove in Zakarpattia region in connection with the scandal of taking the Hungarian citizenship by Ukrainian citizens. "There is no need to discuss necessity regarding the specific actions of the Hungarian consul. Here we must set the record straight. And we will do it. In the coming days, the consul will return to his homeland," Klimkin wrote in his article published on the website of European Pravda on Wednesday. As reported, in his video message on Monday evening, Klimkin said that Hungary should withdraw its consul in Berehove before the end of this week, otherwise Ukraine will expel him. The Russian Federation is attempting to deploy additional military forces near the border with Ukraine, said Oleksandr Turchynov, the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (NSDC). "We can observe active attempts to deploy additional military units along the Ukrainian border, and in number they are already comparable to those that were there in 2014, when the State Duma decided to deploy troops ... The new units they are deploying on our border are not only a demonstration of power ... They can be used to conduct active hostilities. We must understand this and be ready for this," Turchynov told journalists in Kharkiv. National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksandr Turchynov has predicted that Ukraine and the United States will continue military-technical cooperation, including on the supply of lethal weapons. "We needed four years to convince our partners that we should begin to cooperate in matters of lethal weapons. But the first step has already been taken, and I think this relevant issue will also be discussed at the end of this year. When planning the budget for next year, we will talk about more serious interaction systems and projects, in particular air defense," Turchynov told journalists in Kharkiv on Wednesday. When asked whether lethal weapons were supplied from the United States to Ukraine in addition to the Javelin anti-tank missile systems, in particular, small arms and ammunition, Turchynov said: "Ammunition, sniper rifles - such weapons can formally be bought in a military store, you know. When we talk about weapons, these are weapons that can be used to systematically defeat an enemy. These are already anti-tank missile systems. This is serious military assistance. Of course, there was help in the form of radar systems that can locate an enemy." Turchynov also stressed that he would like Ukraine to maintain military-technical cooperation with its strategic partners without any restrictions. "There can be no restrictions in military-technical cooperation between Ukraine and our strategic partners. This is the logic of the reforms we are conducting in the Armed Forces, in other bodies. This is a transition to NATO standards, etc. I am convinced that this movement must be reciprocal," he said. On Thursday, October 4, at 10.30, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference entitled "Collapse of Azerbaijan's Diplomatic Service in Ukraine" with the participation of chairman of the Congress of the Peoples of the Caucasus of Ukraine, diplomat, social and political activist Pasha Mamedov (8/5-A Reitarska Street). Registration requires press accreditation. Details by phone: (098) 544 7432. LONDON, Oct 3 (Reuters) - Iranian President Hassan Rouhani praised Europe on Wednesday for taking a "big step" toward maintaining business with Iran after the unilateral U.S. withdrawal from a 2015 nuclear deal and re-imposition of new sanctions on the Islamic Republic. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif also told the BBC on Wednesday that support from Europe to preserve economic ties with the Islamic Republic in the face of U.S. pressure was "better than expected". In May, U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew from Irans 2015 nuclear agreement with world powers which aims at stalling Tehrans nuclear capabilities in return for lifting some sanctions, and ordered the reimposition of U.S. sanctions suspended under the deal. European powers have been scrambling to salvage the accord. The European Union announced last week a so-called Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) under consideration to facilitate trade with Iran could be in place before November. "To maintain financial and monetary relations in Iran, Europe has formed a special body... Europe has taken a big step," Rouhani was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency. Rouhani, a pragmatist who engineered the nuclear accord and a short-lived period of detente between Tehran and Washington, said the Trump administration was "extremely angry" with Europe's decision. European diplomats have described the SPV proposal as a means to create a barter system, similar to one used by the Soviet Union during the Cold War, to exchange Iranian oil for European goods without money changing hands. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi said on Monday that the EU's proposed mechanism to pay Tehran the revenues from oil sales was not "an oil for food program". The U.N. Security Council started the Oil-for-Food Program in 1996 to allow Iraq to sell enough crude to pay for food and other necessities for its population, which was suffering under strict U.N. sanctions imposed after the first Gulf War. The World Court ordered the United States on Wednesday to ensure that sanctions against Iran do not impact humanitarian aid or civil aviation safety. The head of a student military brigade in the Shiite holy city of Qom has been fired after allowing a protest against President Hassan Rouhani to take place at the seminary where the students study. Hossein Tayyevifar was replaced by Izzatollah Motamid as head of the Imam Sadiq Brigade October 1. After his dismissal, Tayyevifar was immediately appointed as the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) deputy for clerical affairs. The protest rally that apparently led to commander Tayyebifar's dismissal took place August 16 at Irans major Shiite seminary in Qom. Based on a report published by the government-run newspaper Iran, the protest rally was co-hosted by the IRGC's Imam Sadiq Brigade. The assembly soon turned into a demonstration against President Hassan Rouhani. Shiite seminary students, who receive stipends from the office of the Islamic Republics Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and other conservative top clergy, chanted angry slogans aimed directly at Rouhani. Tasnim, a news agency affiliated with the IRGC, reported the rally was held under the banner of "demanding economic justice" and that participants called for the punishment of unnamed individuals they accused of financial corruption. The protesters threatened Rouhani with the fate of his mentor and ex-president Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, who died under suspicious circumstances while swimming in a pool January 8, 2017. Protestors reportedly chanted that a pool is waiting for anyone in favor of continued negotiations with the U.S. over the now seemingly defunct nuclear deal. Referring to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Irans nuclear deal with world powers that the U.S. withdrew from in May, some of the protest signs read, "six years of negotiation led to nowhere, and supporters of JCPOA, return and obey the Supreme Leader. After two grand ayatollahs, Nasser Makerem Shirazi and Hossein Nouri Hamadani criticized the rally at the seminary, the IRGC denied any involvement. The Imam Sadiq Brigade has been repeatedly been used as a tool for suppressing any cleric who dares to challenge the current Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. During the three decades of Khamenei's leadership, the Imam Sadiq Brigade has played the pivotal role in attacking the offices of dissident Ayatollahs, including Hossein Ali Montazeri and Ahmad Azari Qomi. In a historic speech in 1997, Ayatollah Montazeri bitterly derided the brigade, which he called a bunch of children. After this speech, Montazeri was immediately placed under house arrest by direct order from Khamenei. The order was carried out by the Imam Sadiq Brigade along with other security forces. Although President Rouhani has so far not commented on the protest rally, Qoms Special Clerical Court announced in September that following a complaint from Rouhanis Administration, it had summoned for questioning five seminary students who attended the rally. The World Court has ordered the United States on Wednesday to ensure that sanctions against Iran do not impact humanitarian aid or civil aviation safety. Judges at the International Court Of Justice (ICJ handed a victory to Tehran, which had argued that sanctions imposed since May by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump violate the terms of a 1955 Treaty of Amity between the two countries. The 1955 treaty marked the close relationship between the U.S. and Iran during the reign of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi. The alliance was later condemned by the revolutionaries in 1978-79 as treason by the king. However, Iran has used the treaty to argue legal or diplomatic cases against the U.S. on several occasions. It is not clear why successive U.S. administrations have not abrogated the treaty. The Islamic Republic and its leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei constantly call the U.S. "Iran's enemy" but have also not cancelled the treaty. Meanwhile, the 1955 Treaty of Amity between Iran and the United States says in para 2 of its Article 21 that "Any dispute between the two parties about the interpretation or implementation of this treaty which cannot be settled through diplomatic means, would be referred to the International Court of Justice, unless both parties agree to settle it though other amicable means." The ruling is likely to have at most limited practical impact on the implementation of sanctions, which Washington is reimposing and tightening after pulling out of a 2015 nuclear deal that Iran signed with world powers. Iran welcomed on Wednesday a ruling of the World Court, the highest United Nations tribunal, that ordered the United States to ensure that sanctions against Tehran do not impact humanitarian aid or civil aviation safety. "The decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the U.S. sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel," the foreign ministry said in a statement published on Tasnim news agency and state media. The ICJ is the United Nations highest court for resolving disputes between nations. Its rulings are binding, but it has no power to enforce them, and both the United States and Iran have effectively ignored its decisions in the past in cases they have brought against each other. The court found that assurances offered by Washington in August that it would do its best to ensure sanctions would not affect humanitarian conditions were "not adequate to address fully the humanitarian and safety concerns raised" by Iran. "The court considers that the United States must, in line with its obligations under the 1955 treaty, remove by means of its choosing any impediment arising from the measures announced on 8 May 2018," said Presiding Judge Abdulqawi Yusuf, reading a summary of a ruling by the 15-member panel of justices. The sanctions may not hurt "exportation to the territory of Iran of goods required for humanitarian needs such as medicines, medical devices and foodstuffs and agricultural commodities as well as goods and services required for the safety of civil aviation," he said. Washington argued last month that Iran's request was an attempt to misuse the court and that the 1955 treaty specifically ruled out using courts to resolve disputes. U.S. State Department Legal Adviser Jennifer Newstead had said Iran's real quarrel was Iran's frustration over U.S. plans to pull out of the 2015 nuclear pact, under which Iran agreed to curbs on its nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions. The unilateral U.S. move has been opposed by the other countries that are party to the agreement, including Washington's close European allies Britain, France and Germany as well as Russia and China. Despite international criticism, Washington is pushing ahead with the measures. A new series of sanctions is due to go into effect Nov. 4 aimed at sharply curtailing Iranian oil exports. Reporting by Reuters Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 Trend: Baku Higher Oil School (BHOS) hosted a meeting with representatives of HMC Co. Ltd and Kyungsung University (South Korea). It was attended by BHOS Rector Elmar Gasimov, Vice President of HMC Park Gabju and other managers of the company, and professor of the Kyungsung University Park Jung-sik. Dean of the BHOS Engineering Department Zafar Gurbanov, Head of Process Automation Engineering Department Manafaddin Namazov and other key staff members of the Higher School also participated in the meeting. The main purpose of the meeting was to discuss BHOS participation in the scientific research project developed by HMC company and the Kyungsung University and related to the control of early gas leak detection system with the usage of closed-circuit television (CCTV). Rector Elmar Gasimov expressed his pleasure to meet representatives of HMC company and the Kyungsung University again. BHOS rector emphasized the importance of this initiative and said that he would personally supervise the work of the group representing the Higher School in the project. A new center to be established by HMC Co. Ltd at the BHOS campus can provide all necessary technologies and equipment for scientific and research activities to be carried out jointly by BHOS and Kyungsung University in the framework of the project, told Elmar Gasimov. Vice President of HMC Park Gabju expressed his satisfaction that the project would be implemented in cooperation with the Baku Higher Oil School. He also informed that HMC Co. Ltd operating in the framework of Industry 4.0 and working with artificial intellect would supply modern equipment and latest technologies to the new center at BHOS. It shall be used for the project to be funded by the Republic of Korea and implemented with participation of the Higher Schools Process Automation Engineering Department. This is the first innovative scientific research project of this kind to be carried out by BHOS. It provides for gas leak detection at very early stages by the latest-generation CCTV cameras and, thus, can offer significant benefits to various industries. It is expected that the project successful implementation will be of interest to largest oil and gas companies around the world. The project group of BHOS is led by the Dean of the Engineering Department Zafar Gurbanov and is comprised of the Head of Process Automation Engineering Department Manafaddin Namazov, Senior Lecturer of the Department, Head of Internet of Things laboratory Abbas Alili and other teachers and students. The project will be implemented in the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding between BHOS and HMC Co. Ltd. signed by the Rector Elmar Gasimov and the company President Park Hak-Joo a while ago. Describing them as counter-revolutionaries, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan told demonstrators outside the National Assembly that he has signed orders calling on Prosperous Armenia Party (PAP)and ARF ministers in his government to resign. Earlier this evening, MPs from these two parties voted in favor of a Republican Party of Armenia bill that would effectively ban the dissolution of the parliament by other than legal means in the case that the prime minister resigns, and a new prime minister isnt elected within the two-week deadline. The bill passed with a vote of 67 in favor. Only Yelk Alliance MPs opposed it. Yesterday and today a dreadful bill was introduced by the PAP and the ARF that aims to stage a counter-revolution in Armenia. Approval of that bill is a conspiracy against the supreme authority of Armenia, i.e., the Armenian people, Pashinyan told the crowd of several thousand demonstrating outside the National Assembly in Yerevan. Pashinyan said that PAP and ARF provincial governors would be formally dismissed at the next cabinet session, but that theyre effectively stripped of all power as of tonight. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct.3 By Leman Zeynalova Trend: The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group welcome all efforts by the sides to reduce tensions and move towards a peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, OSCE said in response to Trends question about the possible impact of the recent conversation held between Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Dushanbe on the process of the conflict's settlement. The co-chairs support any arrangements reached by the sides that contribute to reaching that aim and stand ready to render any and all necessary mediation assistance to help the sides find a lasting comprehensive settlement, said the OSCE. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had a conversation on the sidelines of the CIS Summit in Dushanbe. The parties affirmed their commitment to the process of negotiations on the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the strengthening of the ceasefire regime for preventing incidents on the line of contact and Armenia-Azerbaijan border. The parties decided to develop mechanisms for building prompt contacts between relevant authorities. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 By Elchin Mehdiyev - Trend: Azerbaijan wants to see from Armenia an adequate representative in the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, vice speaker of the Azerbaijani parliament Bahar Muradova said on Oct. 3. Muradova said it was quite obvious that inevitably there would be demands for the Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's resignation. "If we recall the process of his election as prime minister, it should also be recalled that neither today's parliament, nor government bodies or political forces in power were interested in this," Muradova said. "Pashinyan's election as a prime minister did not eliminate the existing problems, on the contrary, he deepened them further. This is openly manifested in the processes observed in Armenia. It is very important for a politician to possess experience, skills and ability to make diplomatic moves. Pashinyan has little of these, so that opponents will inevitably have a desire to take revenge. Dissatisfied Armenian political forces, aggravating the situation in the country, intend to regain their previous opportunities, and are not going to sacrifice their opportunities for Pashinyan. And this confrontation will only heat up," she added. "The coming to power of a political force is Armenia's internal affair. However, regardless of who comes to power there, Azerbaijan wants to talk with a normal politician who can be an adequate party to the negotiations on resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict," Muradova said. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 Trend: Harizs Egliens, a citizen of Latvia and an employee of the IMPRO Travels LTD, has sent a letter to the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan, asking to exclude him from the list of foreigners who illegally visited the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement October 3. Egliens noted in his letter that he visited Nagorno-Karabakh in October 2015 and was not informed about the consequences of the visit. He stressed that the visit does not mean disrespect for Azerbaijan and the Azerbaijani people. Egliens noted that he respects the laws, territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan in the framework of internationally recognized borders, and apologized to the government and people of Azerbaijan for traveling to the occupied territories. Expressing his regret in connection with the visit, Egliens stressed that the visit to the Azerbaijani territories occupied by Armenia doesn't in any way serve the purpose of encouraging the illegal regime established in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan. In his letter, Egliens also noted that in the future, he will refrain from such visits to the occupied territories of Azerbaijan. In conclusion, he asked for permission to visit Azerbaijan in the future. His appeal was considered and a decision was made to exclude him from the list of undesirable persons of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. Visiting Nagorno-Karabakh and other occupied Azerbaijani territories without agreement with the Azerbaijani side is considered illegal, and the names of the persons who make such visits are included in the black list of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 Trend: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has signed an order, providing funds for the construction of Arbatan-Marishli-Seyidsadiqli-Guychu road in Salyan district. Under the presidential order, the Azerbaijan Highway State Agency is allocated 4.2 million manats for the construction of the road connecting four residential areas with a total population of 11,000 people. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 Trend: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to Frank-Walter Steinmeier, president of the Federal Republic of Germany. On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I cordially congratulate you and the people of your country on the occasion of the German Unity Day of the Federal Republic of Germany, Ilham Aliyev said in his letter. We attach great importance to Azerbaijani-German relations. In this regard, the expansion of our relations in political, economic and humanitarian areas day by day is satisfactory. I believe that cooperation as well as joint activities of our countries in a multilateral format will successfully continue. On this remarkable day, I extend my best wishes to you, and wish the friendly people of Germany everlasting peace and prosperity, the Azerbaijani president said. Ilham Aliyev also congratulated Moon Jae-in, the president of South Korea. On behalf of the people of Azerbaijan and on my own behalf, I extend my sincerest congratulations to you and the people of your country on the occasion of the national holiday of the Republic of Korea, Ilham Aliyev said in his letter. I believe that the relations of friendship and cooperation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Korea will continue developing and expanding to the benefit of our nations. On this remarkable day, I wish you the best of health, success in your endeavors, and the friendly people of your country everlasting peace and prosperity. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 By Elchin Mehdiyev Trend: During the session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in Kyrgyzstan, the Azerbaijani delegation will voice views on the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, as well as the release of Azerbaijani hostages Dilgam Asgarov and Shahbaz Guliyev, Vice-Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament Bahar Muradova said in Baku on Oct. 3. The issue of Azerbaijani hostages Dilgam Asgarov and Shahbaz Guliyev, taken hostage by the Armenian side, is constantly raised within international events, Muradova stressed. The appeals are being made to release Azerbaijanis convicted upon the laws of the illegal regime created in the occupied Azerbaijani territories. Unfortunately, there is no progress on the issue, she said. Muradova added that the voiced opinions remain unheard without concrete mechanisms and real pressure. "Nevertheless, I think that the issue must not be removed from the agenda, she said. Azerbaijan will constantly focus on this issue. The efforts should be made to take serious measures to return people, whose mobility in their country is restricted, to their homes." During an operation in July 2014 in the Shaplar village of Azerbaijani Kalbajar district, occupied by Armenia, the Armenian special forces killed an Azerbaijani, Hasan Hasanov, and took hostage two other Azerbaijanis, Shahbaz Guliyev and Dilgam Asgarov. A "criminal case" was initiated against them. Afterwards, a "court" sentenced Asgarov to life imprisonment and Guliyev to 22 years in prison. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. Baku, Azerbaijan, October 3 By Elchin Mehdiyev - Trend: Eleni Theocharous, Member of European Conservatives and Reformists Group, Member of the Bureau of the European Parliament, who encourages bloody separatism and ethnic cleansing, acts by the order of the Armenian Diaspora organizations, the Member of the Azerbaijani Parliament Aydin Huseynov told Trend October 3. He noted that Theocharous has repeatedly visited the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, as a result of which she has been included in Azerbaijan's "list of undesirable persons". The Azerbaijani MP also added that Theocharous has been brought to trial as an accused person under the relevant articles of the Criminal code for participating as an "observer" in the "referendum" of the separatist regime in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan on February 20, 2017. Huseynov said that on the basis of the court's decision, a preventive measure in the form of arrest has been chosen against her, and a request has been sent to Interpol to put Theocharous on the international wanted list. He noted that in 1990, under the pretext of "humanitarian mission", this Cypriot MP carried out surgical operations in the occupied Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, for which she was awarded the "medal" of the separatist regime. Huseynov added that by the order of Armenia and the Armenian Diaspora organizations, she clearly promotes in the international arena, especially in the framework of the European Parliament, the separatist regime established as a result of the military occupation of Azerbaijani lands. "During the last of many illegal visits of the member of the European Parliament to the occupied territories of Azerbaijan on September 27 of this year, she was accompanied by Kaspar Karampetyan, who operates in Europe for the legitimization of the Armenian occupation," he added. The Azerbaijani MP noted that despite the numerous visits of Theocharous to the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, she has posted on the official website of the European Parliament only a statement on participation the "referendum" of the separatist regime in February 2017. "This activity of Theocharous, who tried to present all her illegal visits under the guise of the fact that she in some way led the official delegation of the European Parliament, means abuse of membership in the European Parliament. She also has to explain herself to the European Parliament regarding her visits financed from abroad," the Azerbaijani MP said. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 By Elchin Mehdiyev Trend: The homecoming of Azerbaijani children who are in Iraq is a difficult and painful issue, Vice-Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament Bahar Muradova said in Baku on Oct. 3. Various information on this issue is obtained, she said. We, as the Azerbaijani parliaments committee for human rights, received information on specific facts while receiving relatives of these children. We have sent numerous appeals, which the committee is receiving, to the corresponding bodies. Proceeding from the responses we have received, it is clear that this work is underway and regulated via intergovernmental relations. "Azerbaijan cannot accept the fact that its citizens are doomed to suffer in uncontrolled zones, Muradova said. Azerbaijan is working within its capabilities. We would like this work to yield results." Baku, Azerbaijan, October 3 Trend: The admission to the drifting school established by the Azerbaijan Automobile Federation has been announced in Azerbaijan, the federation said in a statement Oct. 3. The training courses at the drifting school will be conducted by experts of the International Automobile Federation. The training courses for children will be held by the champion of Ireland and the UK in drifting Duane McKeever, the champion of Germany and the Netherlands Sebastian Fontijn, and a Red Bull athlete, three-times champion of Ukraine in drifting Aleksandr Grinchuk. The purpose of the opening of the drifting school is to develop motor sports, to increase interest in this field, to educate local athletes and specialists who will be able to represent Azerbaijan at international competitions. The persons wishing to register, may contact [email protected] or call 050 295 01 00 until October 9. The participation in the drifting lessons is on a paid basis. The first lessons will be held from October 11 to October 14 on the territory of the Baku Seaside National Park. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 Trend: The EU will support strengthening competitiveness of the horticulture sector in Azerbaijans Lankaran district, reads the agreement on financing the program of activities on Azerbaijan for 2017, Azerbaijans Economy Ministry said in a message. The agreement was signed as part of the meeting between Azerbaijans Economy minister Shahin Mustafayev and Head of the EU Delegation to Azerbaijan Kestutis Jankauskas. The signed agreement envisages strengthening competitiveness of the horticulture sector in Azerbaijans Lankaran Economic Region, as well as further improving the business environment and investments. At the meeting, the minister noted special importance of mutual visits and high-level meetings in expanding relations between Azerbaijan and the EU. It was noted that the EU is one of the main foreign trade partners of Azerbaijan. The share of the EU member states in Azerbaijans foreign trade in 2017 was 42 percent, and in the first eight months of 2018 - 43.5 percent. There are more than 1,500 companies of EU member states operating in Azerbaijan. Over the past six years, EU member countries have invested about $16 billion in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan is one of the countries that use the twinning tool more often than others. It was also noted that 34 twinning projects have already been successfully implemented, and 10 projects are in the process of implementation. It was stressed at the meeting that Azerbaijan is interested in further expanding cooperation with the EU in the non-oil sector, and Azerbaijans very important role in Europes energy security was mentioned. Jankauskas noted the mutual interest in expanding ties. He noted effective cooperation in the energy sector between Azerbaijan and the EU, as well as the countrys broad export opportunities. Hetq has been informed that protests against yesterdays approved bill to alter the parliaments rules of procedure have broken out in towns across Armenia. During yesterdays Yerevan protests, Pashinyan called on citizens outside the Armenian capital to take to the streets and demand that snap elections be held in December. Some 5,000 protesters have taken to the streets in Vanadzor, Armenias third largest city, according to reports from the town. Similar protests occurred in the towns of Dilijan, Akhtala, Gyumri and Jermouk. Thousands encircled the National Assembly in Yerevan to voice their disapproval of the approved bill that would allow for the stoppage of parliamentary sessions in force majeure circumstances or when MPs are prevented from voting, only to be continued when such hindrances are no longer present. Pashinyan described the bill to alter the parliaments rules of procedure as an artificial hindrance to the dissolution of the current parliament and the holding of snap elections. Republican Party of Armenia, Prosperous Armenia and ARF MPs voted in favor of the bill. Only the Pashinyan-backed Yelk Alliance MPs voted against it. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 Trend: Jovan Jekic, an expert in international trade law, has been appointed advisor to the minister of foreign trade of Uzbekistan on accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO), Uzbek media reported. Uzbekistans accession to the WTO will make it possible to significantly expand the geography of exports, increase deliveries to foreign countries, Uzbek Minister of Foreign Trade Jamshid Khojayev said. As you know, this process is comprehensive, difficult, time-consuming and in this context the international expert will assist us in conducting a comprehensively weighted negotiation process for joining this organization in order to obtain the greatest benefits from participation in it. Jovan Jekic has over 35 years of experience in the field of international commercial law, protection of intellectual property, customs rules and procedures, legal regulation of trade and investment policy. In 2001-2017, he advised the governments of Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, as well as Serbia and Montenegro on the issues of WTO accession. He maintains constructive and working interaction with representatives of the WTO Secretariat in Geneva and negotiating teams of other members of the organization. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 Trend: The international conference China and Eurasia: Towards a New Quality of Cooperation and Development was held in Shanghai, Uzbek media reported. The event was organized by the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences. Various aspects of Eurasian cooperation and future prospects were discussed at the event. The Uzbek side was represented by Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan Shafoat Nurullayeva. During the event, an exchange of views of experts and scholars took place, and constructive proposals were made to strengthen cooperation between China and the countries of the Eurasian space. Chinese experts noted the increased openness in relations among the Central Asian countries in recent years. In their opinion, this also contributes to the strengthening of interaction among the member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in the field of trade and other areas. Speaking about the role of Uzbekistan in these processes, they stressed that the country began to play a special role in the process of improving regional cooperation in Central Asia, which remains an important space for strengthening relations among the SCO member countries. During the conference, experts also highlighted the new situation in the Central Asian region, as well as the measures taken by the countries to create favorable conditions for trade and investment cooperation with China. They said that liberalization of economic relations is taking place in the countries of the region, especially in Uzbekistan, and this is especially noticeable in the last two years. Experts assessed this as a quite positive trend that may have a positive effect on the development of the economies of the countries of the region in the future. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 By Fikret Dolukhanov Trend: The "Art. Lebedev Studio", the studio of the famous Russian designer Artemy Lebedev, is planning to participate in the competition to create the logo of Tashkent, as well as to develop proposals and recommendations on priority topics voiced by the public council and the city administration of the Uzbek capital, the press service of the city administration announced referring to the meeting of Lebedev with representatives of the Tashkent administration and experts of the public council. The extensive experience of "Art. Lebedev Studio" in creating tourist logos and designs of cities can be used to increase the tourist attractiveness of cultural and historical places of Uzbekistan, said the message. One of the priority areas of possible cooperation is the design of urban passenger transport. It should be noted that the delegation of the Tashkent administration and representatives of the public council were recently in Moscow, where, among other things, they met with Artemy Lebedev. During his working trip to Uzbekistan, Lebedev plans to meet with businessmen from the capital and to visit a city of Khiva. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @FDolukhanov Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 By Ilkin Shafiyev - Trend: Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan Automobile Plant is implementing a project for production of electric cars, which, along with being cost-effective, are environmentally friendly, Director of the Nakhchivan Automobile Plant Musa Abdullayev told Trend Oct. 3. At the same time, the plant ordered ambulances based on a LIFAN commercial minivan and the first models will be assembled in early 2019. The Nakhchivan Automobile Plant was commissioned in 2010 in Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, which is in blockade by Armenia, to participate in and support the social and economic development of the autonomous republic, said Abdullayev. More than 5,000 cars have been produced at the plant so far. He noted that initially the plant assembled four models of LIFAN cars, which are sold in Azerbaijan under the NAZ-LIFAN brand. The range has grown to 14 different models, he said. Our cars meet modern design and the highest safety standards, environmental requirements that are applied in the automotive industry, Abdullayev added. Over the years, the network of service and sales of cars have increased significantly. In addition, the warranty period for our cars has been extended to three years or to 150,000 kilometers. Presently, the plant produces the following models: NAZ-LIFAN 820, which is referred to as a business sedan, NAZ-LIFAN 650 (NAZ-LIFAN 620-II), equipped with a new 1.5-liter engine, with low fuel consumption and a new design, NAZ-LIFAN X60 - a crossover with an updated exterior and interior and a modified engine that consumes less fuel, and NAZ-LIFAN 330, which is an economical hatchback. Presently, the plant is working to localize the production of some spare parts, and this will make it possible to reduce the cost of cars produced at the plant, Abdullayev said. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @IlkinShafiyev Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 Trend: The US company Oppenheimer offered its assistance in attracting investors and raising Tashkent citys rating at a meeting in the Uzbek capitals administration, the press service of the Tashkent city administration said in a statement, Uzbek media reported. Oppenheimer representatives noted that providing innovative solutions for customers distinguishes them from competitors. Oppenheimer feels proud by its reputation as a private company that helps individuals, families, company heads, foundations, charitable organizations, companies and institutions. It was noted at the meeting that providing unbiased advice and access to a wide range of traditional and non-traditional investment services is the backbone of Oppenheimers business. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct.3 By Rashid Shirinov Trend: The demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) has increased in the world, which is resulting in many LNG supplier countries increasing their production. Qatar, the worlds main LNG exporter, is undoubtedly among these countries. Qatar plans to increase production of LNG to 110 million tons by 2024, the countrys Energy Minister Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Sad said at the plenary session during the Russian Energy Week, TASS reported. "Initially, we thought we could increase production to 77 million tons, but then we realized that we could easily reach the level of 110 million tons [of LNG] by 2024," he said. The Russian Energy Week international forum is being held in Moscow in the Manezh Central exhibition hall from October 3 to 6. The forum is attended by heads of major international energy companies, leading world experts and media representatives. Gas Strategies, a management consultancy focused on the global gas and LNG industry, has recently noted in its report that successful opening up of new LNG markets has increased the number of LNG importing countries from 18 in 2008 to 42 today. Massimo Di-Odoardo, Vice President of Global Gas and LNG Research, in turn, believes Global demand for LNG is set to outstrip supply. He noted that China and Europe will become the major importers of LNG. Presently, the largest LNG exporters are Qatar, Australia, Malaysia, Nigeria, Indonesia, Algeria, Russia, Trinidad and Tobago, Oman, and Papua New Guinea, while the main importers include Asian countries Japan, China, South Korea, India and Taiwan. First name * Last name * Login or e-mail * Phone Company Industry Password * Confirm password * Register Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 Trend: One of the most striking exhibitions of the year the 24-th Tashkent International Tourism Fair (TITF-2018) entitled as "Tourism on the Silk Road" has opened in Tashkent on October 3, which will run until October 5, Podrobno.uz reported. The international and national pavilions have been accommodated in the capital's "Uzexpocentre", where the "Town of artisans" project, the stands of theaters and museums of the country's regions, the Festival of national dishes, "The Eastern Bazaar", "The Alley of artists", fashion shows from leading and emerging designers of Uzbekistan and much more have been housed within the exposition. The TITF is held since 1995 with the official support of the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Every year, the exhibition brings together professionals of tourism business from all over the world. This year, the participants and guests of the event can communicate with representatives of various companies related to tourism from such countries as the Kingdom of Thailand, Egypt, Singapore, Malaysia, Azerbaijan, India, Korea, Turkey and Russia. China takes part in this exhibition for the first time. China's participation in the exhibition confirms that it becomes more recognizable to the world from year to year and systematically turns into a serious platform for the exchange of cultural, social and economic experience in the tourism sector, and China is becoming increasingly interested in Uzbekistan. It is also planned that the regional representative of China for Central Asia will make a presentation at the exhibition. Head of Astana's Healthcare Department Kamalzhan Nadyrov says Astana intends to join the Healthy Cities community at the Healthy Cities conference taking place in the Irish city of Belfast, BNews.kz reports referring to a website of Astana's Mayor's Office. The Nothern Ireland holds the international conference between October 1 to 4 devoted to the 30 years after the establishment of the Healthy Cities network and global movement. The large-scale event has gathered Mayors and political leaders of such cities as Paris, Moscow, New York, Istanbul, Amsterdam and so on, including the leaders of the Healthcare Department of Astana. The Department's head Kamalzhan Nadyrov said at the conference that Astana also intended to join the Healthy Cities network. This takes much work to improve the city's infrastructure so to decrease traumatism, road accidents, to form healthy habits among the residents, to reduce the level of harmful emissions, to improve the quality of water, as well as to develop green technologies. In other words, to build the city's structure so that the residents feel comfortable and safe. The Healthy Cities global movement promotes health issues in social, economic and political agendas of city authorities. The network has brought together around 100 flagship cities and about 30 national networks over 30 years. The Healthy Cities movement includes thousands of municipal establishments around the world making it especially strong. Its international conferences are held every five years and serve as a site to hold meetings and exchange experiences with colleagues and partners from all over the world for cities' representatives. On the event's first day, head of the Public Health Department of Astana Kamalzhan Nadyrov delivered a speech at the conference to high-ranking officials and represented Kazakhstan's capital city as a world successful urban project. The four-day event's programme taking place in the Irish city of Belfast offers wide possibilities to spread the movement's global experience and for discussions between politicians, cities' high-ranking officials and technical experts. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Oct. 3 By Huseyn Hasanov Trend: As part of the 46th Session of the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR), Geneva hosted discussions of Turkmenistans report on implementation of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), the Turkmen Foreign Ministry said in a message. The Turkmen delegation was headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Vepa Khajiyev. As part of the dialogue, the participants touched upon issues of equal rights for men and women, protection of the family and children, including ensuring the rights to work, fair and favorable working conditions, to social security, physical and mental health, education, as well as cultural rights. The committee gave positive assessment of the quality of the main and additional materials prepared by the Turkmen side and readiness to discuss the diverse issues raised by the international covenant. The committee will prepare its concluding remarks with recommendations, which will be sent to the Turkmen side. After spending two and a half hours discussing the scenario of future snap parliamentary election, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan left the National Assembly and declared to a crowd of thousands outside that officials from the Republican Party of Armenia, Prosperous Armenia Party and the ARF had promised not to nominate candidates for the post of prime minister during the first and second voting stages after he resigns from the post. Thousands of demonstrators earlier this evening gathered outside the National Assembly, at the urging of Pashinyan, to protest todays parliamentary approval of a controversial bill seen by Pashinyan as an attempt by the Republican Party of Armenia to regain power. Pashinyan has called for elections this December, while the Republican Party of Armenia, Prosperous Armenia and ARF factions want the elections postponed until May-June of next year. The bill would ban the dissolution of the parliament by other than legal means. Pashinyan told the demonstrators that MPs from the three above parties had asked him to explain the need for snap parliamentary elections, to which he responded that the sitting parliament, in which the RPA enjoys a relative majority, does not reflect the will of the people and that snap elections are needed to resolve the ongoing political crisis in the country. If elections were to be held next May, as the three parties want, Pashinyan argued that it would only prolong the current crisis by another seven months. Our position is that elections must be held this December because they logically cant be held any sooner. The specific deadline depends on the day that I resign. Holding snap parliamentary elections is the demand of the people and nation, Pashinyan said. Pashinyan described the bill to alter the parliaments rules of procedure as an artificial hindrance to the dissolution of the current parliament and the holding of snap elections. The approved bill would allow for the stoppage of parliamentary sessions in force majeure circumstances or when MPs are prevented from voting, only to be continued when such hindrances are no longer present. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 Trend: Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed three laws on the ratification of international documents, Uzbek media reported. In particular, the Uzbek president signed the Law on Ratification of the Paris Agreement (Paris, December 12, 2015). The Paris Agreement was adopted on December 12, 2015 following the 21st United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Paris. The climate change agreement developed in Paris for the first time in the history united the efforts of all world powers to contain climate change. Shavkat Mirziyoyev also approved the Law on Ratification of the Amendment to the Charter of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (Abidjan, July 1011, 2017). The Law on Ratification of the Statute for the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (Istanbul, November 7, 1999 with amendments dated May 7, 2017) was also signed. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman welcomed appointment of Barham Salih as new president of Iraq, IRNA reports. Bahram Qasemi expressed hope that the relations between Iran and Iraq would develop. He also hoped that ties lead to developing friendship between the two countries and reinforcing cooperation in regional and international levels which can make economic welfare for the two nations. Saleh became Iraqs president after he failed to win the post in 2014. He is the third president of Iraq after the fall of Iraq's dictator Saddam Hussein. In his first address after being elected, he said that he would be committed to constitutional law, preserve territorial integrity and independence of Iraq. Moscow plans to continue its cooperation with Iran even if new sanctions are slapped on Tehran, Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak told on Wednesday, TASS reports. "If new sanctions are imposed, we will continue our cooperation," Novak said on the sidelines of the Russian Energy Week forum in Moscows central exhibition hall Manezh. "We are interested in continuing our cooperation with Iran, which is our long-term economic partner. Certainly, we need to further find the forms of cooperation to fulfill joint projects," Novak said. Novak said he constantly maintains contact with Iranian Minister of Petroleum Bijan Namdar Zangeneh and hopes to hold a meeting with him on Wednesday. "We discuss our cooperation and if he takes a flight today we will find time for bilateral contacts," Novak told reporters. The 19th International Exhibition of Telecommunications and Information Technology, known as Telecom 2018, kicked off in Iran on Wednesday with the motto 'New achievements, Opportunities Ahead' with 206 domestic and 24 foreign companies attending it, IRNA reports. The exhibition, which was inaugurated by Iran's Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Mohammad Javad Azari Jahromi, will host domestic and foreign companies from different countries such as Italy, Germany, Poland, Russia and China. The exhibition aims at identifying domestic capacities and introducing them to the telecommunications industry. Presenting telecom industry achievements in new areas such as Internet of Things, cryptocurrency and developing rural communications services are among other goals of the exhibition. Four expert meetings will be held on the sidelines of the exhibition, the first of which will be today to discuss 'Internet of Things: Opportunities and Challenges'. The four-day exhibition is open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tehran, Iran, Oct. 3 Trend: The 14th edition of Irans international water and wastewater exhibition will be held in the capital Tehran this month. The exhibition will be held at Tehran international permanent fairground from October 3 to 6, Mehr news agency reported on October 3. Representatives from 28 nations will attend the event, which will open today. This is the biggest event in the Iranian water industry and many prominent domestic companies will also take part in the expo to showcase their latest products and services. As Iran is facing a worsening water situation, the significance of water management has currently increased. Tehran, Iran, Oct. 3 Trend: Senior officials from member states of the Economic Cooperation Organization, ECO, are scheduled to convene in Tehran on October 6, an official with Iran Veterinary Organization said. ECO member states will travel to Iran On Saturday to discuss various bilateral ties, including veterinary-related issues and diseases, Bahman Abedi Kiasari said, Fars news agency reported on October 3. The summit will convey a clear message to the world at a time that Washington is seeking Tehrans isolation, he added. Iran will continue to preserve its international ties under any circumstances, the official said. ECO is an intergovernmental regional organization which was established in 1985 by Iran, Pakistan and Turkey for the purpose of promoting economic, technical and cultural cooperation among the member states. In 1992, the organization was expanded to include seven new members. Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are currently ECO member states. Baku, Azerbaijan, October 3 By Azer Ahmadbayli Trend: Post-war Iraq is not only a country with its numerous challenges such as destroyed cities and infrastructure, corruption, fight against the remnants of the Islamic State terrorist group, ethno-religious contradictions, incomprehensible to the majority of the Western public, but also with opportunities that can become a reality, if the cards are played right. Although the US is tightly present there, it is not able to radically have an affect on the appeasement of the overall situation in Iraq, preferring management of threats and challenges rather than their solution. That is, to some extent, understandable because of the strong counteraction of Iran, whose influence in Iraq is also great. The last example was the halt of activities of the American Consulate in Basra. The Americans believed that increasing threats from Iran and Iranian-backed forces could harm American diplomats, despite the assurances of the Iraqi authorities that they were able to control the security of the Consulate. Russia is so far watching where the Iranian-American confrontation will lead, but at the right time it can enter the geopolitical game, offering Baghdad a number of tempting proposals, for example, buying modern Russian weapons via credit. Many observers believe that if Iraq does acquire the S-400 missile system from Russia, as has long been the case, it will be a psychological turning point in the new rapprochement between Iraq and Russia. Within the meetings held in the last couple of years with Russian counterparts, a number of high-ranking Iraqi authorities repeatedly expressed their wishes to expand economic cooperation with Moscow. There are reasons for such interest. Historically, Russia has been a traditional partner of Iraq in many areas since the times of the Soviet Union, and this hasn't changed. Iraq continues to be of great interest to Russia at least in two respects: as one of the leaders in the worlds oil production, as well as a paying customer of Russian weapons. LUKOIL, Rosneft and Gazprom the three pillars of the Russian oil sector have long been doing business in Iraq. As for Russian weapons, the first deliveries to Iraq began in the 60s of the last century. In 1989, immediately after the Iran-Iraq war, the USSR concluded a number of major military contracts with Baghdad for the supply and maintenance of a range of weapons, for example, missile systems Luna, Kvadrat and others. These contracts were terminated after the Desert Storm operation in January 1991. The new Iraqi government, whatever it may be, has no reason to ignore Russia. On the contrary, the way Russia came to the Middle East a few years ago after a long break, most likely had an effect on the Iraqi elite, many representatives of which retain presence of the Soviet Union in the region in the 70s-80s of the last century. Russia will contribute to the strengthening of the military potential of Iraq, said Russian Deputy foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov at the ceremony of awarding him the prize for the strengthening of Russian-Iraqi dialogue, RIA Novosti reported last week. Moscow and Baghdad are bound by strong friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation. In addition, Iraq is one of the main partners of the Russian Federation in the region, Bogdanov said. Today Iraq is facing two prominent tasks: the post-war rehabilitation and preservation of sovereignty. Russia stated at the international forum for the reconstruction of Iraq, held in Kuwait in February this year, that it is ready to work on major infrastructure projects there. As far as sovereignty is concerned, Russia's position is well-known. After the failed September 2017 referendum in the Kurdish autonomy of Iraq, the Russian foreign Ministry called on the parties to develop a mutually acceptable formula for coexistence within a single Iraqi state. At the time being, Russian influence in Iraq is not so strong in comparison with others. Also, Moscow is not in a hurry. However, it is clear that Russia is not going to leave a country like Iraq on the sidelines of its national interests. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 By Matanat Nasibova Trend: Armenia is shaking again, and it looks like the country is on the eve of a civil war, as the Russian analysts have previously warned, the well-known Russian expert and TV presenter Yevgeny Mikhailov expressed his opinion while commenting on recent events taking place in Armenia. As it became known from the Armenian media, yesterday, after the adoption by the parliament of a law preventing the dissolution of the National Assembly (parliament), the Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan brought people to the streets and made a statement at a spontaneous rally about the dismissal of ministers from the Prosperous Armenia (PAP) and Dashnaktsutyun parties, and also said he will resign after the orders about dismissals de jure come into force. The Russian analyst believes that having come to power on absolutely populist slogans, Nikol Pashinyan turned out to be completely unable to control the situation. He declares that he is supported by the people, but the very people will throw him. It is clear that those who sit in parliament and the ministers who have been nominally dismissed will not surrender their positions. They have their own part of the people, who do not like what Pashinyan declares and translates into reality. Again, the struggle against the Dashnak party, the main nationalistically-minded representatives of the Armenian establishment, is currently unpromising, and its representatives together with supporters from other parties, including the Republican Party, will give a powerful rebuff," Mikhailov said. He noted that the Armenian Prime Minister is reeling from side to side, and it is obvious that the current decision to re-elect parliament and dismiss ministers can speak, first of all, of Pashinyans attempt to strengthen his own power. One day he voices threats towards Azerbaijan, another day he softens the position, but those who represent nationalists in parliament show displeasure. He hopes that the people will elect him again after the election of the new parliament, and therefore he confidently declares that immediately after the dismissal of several ministers he will resign. Of course, this is nothing more than a political maneuver," Mikhailov said. Mikhailov believes the velvet revolutions always devour their heroes, and either Armenia will take the path of development in case of stabilization of the situation with the help of external mediators, or a civil war may occur in the country. "I can admit the thought that Pashinyan may turn for support on certain conditions to Azerbaijan, who is quietly watching and not using the situation to resolve the Nagorno-Karabakh issue. In fact, the situation in Yerevan is very critical. It is worth remembering Putins deferred visit to Armenia, and his very short conversation with Pashinyan at the Dushanbe summit. I think this is not an accident. Russia does not interfere in the events in Yerevan, but it is clear that analysts in the Kremlin have supposed the current development of domestic political conflict in Armenia and decided to hold off official visits and political conclusions," the expert said. Summing up what has been said, he confidently assumes that in the near future it will become clear whether Armenia retains political stability and the ability to talk with external players, or completely loses its statehood, while retaining some kind of semblance of a unitary state consisting of the territories which in fact are governed by local "political princes". The Russian political analyst believes, in such a situation, Baku will be able to return the territories of Karabakh, belonging to Azerbaijan, almost bloodlessly. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. China has hired 12 banks including Bank of China, Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank and China Construction Bank for its second sovereign dollar bond offering in over a decade, Reuters reports. Other banks on the deal are Bank of Communications (601328.SS), China International Capital Corporation (3908.HK), J.P. Morgan (JPM.N), CTBC Bank, Mizuho Securities (MZFGX.UL), Standard Chartered Bank (2888.HK), HSBC (HSBA.L) and Credit Agricole CIB, according to a mandate announcement. The latest bond sale comes at a time when China and the United States are locked in a bitter trade dispute with no signs of backing down. Investors and policymakers fear the tariff row could further hurt Chinas already slowing economy. China last sold a global bond in October last year, when it raised $2 billion, its first such sale since 2004. There was no indication of the amount China was looking to raise this time. Last years bond attracted strong international interest, with investors placing orders more than 10 times the amount on offer. A fixed income investor meeting will be held in Hong Kong on Oct. 9, the mandate announcement showed. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to China on Monday, Chinese State Television reported on Wednesday, citing a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, with the two countries embroiled in an escalating trade war, Reuters reports. The two governments will exchange views over their bilateral relationship and international and domestic issues concerning by both sides, it reported, without giving details. Pompeo will travel to North Korea at the weekend for denuclearization talks with the countrys leader Kim Jong Un, the State Department said on Tuesday, calling this forward progress, despite negative signals from Pyongyang. Pompeo will also travel to Japan and South Korea. Armenias Human Rights Defenders Office is calling on all those participating in protests taking place in the country to show maximum tolerance and to refrain from all forms of violence. The protests started yesterday after the parliament passed a controversial bill altering the legislatures rules of procedure. Thousands gathered outside the National Assembly in Yerevan to voice their opposition. The Office says it is monitoring the protests. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan described the bill as an artificial hindrance to the dissolution of the current parliament and the holding of snap elections. The approved bill would allow for the stoppage of parliamentary sessions in force majeure circumstances or when MPs are prevented from voting, only to be continued when such hindrances are no longer present. Baku, Azerbaijan, October 3 Trend: The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia Sergey Ryabkov has met with the Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel, Head of the Center for Political Research D. Akov, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement, TASS reported October 3. The issues of arms control have been discussed during the meeting. "The sides exchanged views on the current agenda, including the issues of arms control and non-proliferation of WMD (weapons of mass destruction)," the Foreign Ministry said. BMW (BMWG.DE) rivals and ride-hailing companies are considering joining its consortium for developing self-driving cars as auto industry profits come under increasing pressure, board member Klaus Froehlich said on Tuesday, according to Reuters. Carmakers and ride-hailing companies have sought to build self-driving cars as a way to enter the business of smartphone-hailed robotaxis. However, they are entering a crowded field where the likes of Apple (AAPL.O) and Alphabet Inc (GOOGL.O) have been pouring billions of dollars into cars that can drive themselves. Unfortunately, everybody thought they would be the winner and would have an enormous ride-sharing business, BMW board member Klaus Froehlich told Reuters on the sidelines of the Paris Motor Show. BMW, however, wanted to spread the cost of investment and started a consortium that now includes Mobileye, Magna (MG.TO), Fiat Chrysler (FCHA.MI) and auto suppliers Delphi Automotive (DLPH.N) and Continental AG (CONG.DE). The technology is proving complex and the returns on investment are taking longer to materialize, causing investors to scrutinize whether go-it-alone strategies make sense. I have had another German carmaker saying, it sounds like we wasted a lot of money. I also have had contact from tier one suppliers who say lets do a common platform, Froehlich said. Some ride-hailing companies have also expressed interest in joining the consortium. Froehlich would not be drawn on who might join the consortium beyond saying there may be some news on this next year. Energy ministers from about 30 states are expected to attend the Russian Energy Week international forum to begin in Moscow and St. Petersburg on Wednesday, October 3, TASS reports. The main issue of panel discussions will be sustainability of energy in a changing world. The Russian Energy Week is expected to be attended by Qatar Minister of Energy and Industry Mohammed Saleh Al Sada, North Korean Electric Power Industry Minister Kim Man Su, Serbian Minister of Energy and Mining Aleksandar Antic, Belarusian Energy Minister Viktor Karankevich, Minister of Mines and Hydrocarbons of Equatorial Guinea Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto and others. Iranian Minister of Petroleum Bijan Namdar Zangeneh was also expected to take part, but his visit to Russia was cancelled on the last day. The ministers will be able to discuss state policy in the energy sector during a special ministerial conference organized as part of the Russian Energy Week. They will ponder on how emerging factors - the growing use of electric cars, trade wars, technological inequality and other developments - may affect state policies and how the states can efficiently prepare for the possible black swan scenario in the global energy sector. Organizers expect that the Russian Energy Week will be attended by more than 10,000 representatives of the industry. Its program includes more than 60 business events, including panel sessions, roundtables, lectures and open meetings. According to Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak, meetings of OPEC ministers, Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and UN officials will be organized on the sidelines of the forum. Russias Federation Council (upper house of parliament) has passed a law which changes the pension system, particularly raising the retirement age. As many as 149 senators voted in favor of the law, while five voted against it and another three abstained, TASS reports. The law raises the retirement age for men from 60 to 65 years and for women from 55 to 60 years. The Russian government, which submitted the document to the parliament, initially planned to raise the retirement age for women to 63 years. However, President Vladimir Putin suggested that the age be increased to 60. According to the law, men with 42 years of job tenure and women with 37 years of job tenure have the right to early retirement. At the same time, mothers may retire at the age of 56 if they have four children and at the age of 57 if they have three children. The law also enshrines the concept of the pre-retirement age, which refers to a five-year period before the official retirement age. Federation Council Committee on Social Policy Chairman Valery Ryazansky said at Tuesdays meeting that "the law clarifies conditions for the recalculation of pensions for the next four years." These figures will be taken into consideration during work on the federal budget. Head of the Federation Council Committee on Budget and Financial Markets Sergei Ryabukhin pointed out that the committees members had been concerned about whether enough money could be allocated from the budget to implement all of the presidents suggestions. "However, the government has provided a convincing answer that there are enough financial resources," he added, calling on senators to support the law. Most of the changes in the pension system will take effect on January 1, 2019. NATO plans holding the next session of the Russia-NATO Council at the level of ambassadors before the yearend but there is no definitive decision on it yet, an official at NATO headquarters told a news briefing on Wednesday on the eve of a conference of the alliances defense ministers, TASS reports. He said he would be glad to name the date of the session if NATO had reached consent with Russian counterparts on the agenda but he confirmed discussions with Russia were underway and NATO had an intention to convene the meeting before the end of this year. The official did not rule out NATO would raise the problem of Russian 9M729 missiles. The US and NATO claim they violate the provision of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. The Russia-NATO Council held the previous session in May 2018. Russia does not have an ambassador to NATO at the moment. The previous ambassador, Alexander Grushko, left Brussels at the beginning of the year to take up the position of Russias Deputy Foreign Minister. Russian ex-official Arkady Dvorkovich has been elected president of the World Chess Federation during the FIDE General Assembly in Georgias Batumi on Wednesday, TASS reported. The other candidate for the post was FIDE Vice-President Georgios Markropoulos, of Greece. Dvorkovich received 103 votes, while Makropoulos secured 78 votes. One vote was announced to be invalid. Another contender for the post, grandmaster Nigel Short, of Britain, withdrew his candidacy some minutes shy of the voting procedure. Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Dvorkovich with his election and expressed hope that this would help clear chess of politicization, Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists. "Putin expressed hope that Dvorkovichs election to this position will benefit chess and help clear chess of any attempts of politicization," Peskov said. Russian PM Dmitry Medvedev also joined in on the congratulations. "Congratulations to the World Chess Organization on electing its new president," the Russian PM wrote on his Twitter page. He also wished luck to Dvorkovich. Members of the Presidential Ticket of Arkady Dvorkovich, who have been also elected to the office are: - Bachar Kouatly (France) - Deputy President - Mahir Mammedov (Azerbaijan) - Vice President - Julio Granda Zuniga (Peru) - Vice President - Sewa Enyonam Fumey (Togo) - General Secretary - Zhu Chen (Qatar) - Treasurer Dvorkovic, 46, replaced in the post of FIFE president his fellow citizen Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, who ran the worlds governing chess body since 1995 being reelected six times. His 23-year term at the helm of FIDE is the second longest in the history of the organization. Dutchman Alexander Rueb, one of the founders and the first president, was in charge of FIDE for 25 years (1924-1949). In late 2015, the US Department of Treasury added Ilyumzhinov to its sanctions list for "materially assisting and acting for or on behalf of the government of Syria." In the wake of this move, Ilyumzhinov informed members of the FIDE Presidential Board that he temporarily delegated his legal, financial and business powers relating to FIDE activities to Deputy President Georgios Makropoulos. The Swiss bank, UBS, threatened to close the federations bank accounts because of Washingtons sanctions. In late March 2017, FIDE posted a report on Ilyumzhinovs resignation on its website. According to that report, he allegedly said he would step down at a meeting of the FIDE board. However, the FIDE head refuted it saying he was ready to continue to perform his functions. In October 2017, the FIDE Executive Board unanimously approved the full delegation of Ilyumzhinovs powers to Makropoulos. In April 2018, the FIDE Presidential Board asked Ilyumzhinov to step down because he had been sanctioned by the US. As many as 14 board members voted for that resolution, and one voted against it. On July 13, the FIDE Ethics Commission decreed to suspend Ilyumzhinov. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend Turkish police conducted a special operation in the country's Bartin Province to apprehend a gang that was involved in sales of fake gold, Turkish media reported. Six people engaged in selling counterfeit gold, worth about 700,000 Turkish liras, were detained during the operation. Fake gold coins and firearms were found during the search in the detainees' apartments. Other details of the operation were not disclosed. Recently, in Istanbul, another special operation was conducted, as a result of which a group of 417 people was detained on charges of illegal remittances to the US. It is also reported that the money was mainly transferred to the Iranians living in the US. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend: The US is openly supporting terrorists in Syria, Turkish Parliament Speaker Binali Yildirim said, Turkish media reported Oct. 3. He noted that Washington claims to be an ally of Turkey, but in fact the US acts quite differently. The US claims that they support the PYD/YPG militants in order to fight the Islamic State (IS) terrorists, however, cooperation with one terrorist group in order to combat the other is unacceptable, said Yildirim. He noted that the military conflicts in the region have a negative impact on Turkey, and stressed that the wars in neighboring Syria and Iraq led to the fact that over 3.5 million refugees fled to Turkey. Earlier, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that the US did not keep their promises regarding the withdrawal of the PYD/YPG terrorists from the Syrian Manbij. "According to the agreements reached by Turkey and the US, the detachments of the PYD/YPG fighters were to leave the Syrian city of Manbij in 90 days, but it did not happen," Erdogan added. On June 4, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo discussed a road map on Manbij during talks in Washington. Also, Pompeo and Cavusoglu met in Brussels and discussed the Operation Olive Branch, as well as other issues. On Jan. 20, the Turkish Armed Forces, together with the Free Syrian Army, launched the Operation Olive Branch in Afrin, Syria. On Aug. 24, 2016, units of the Turkish Armed Forces began the Operation Euphrates Shield against the "Islamic State" and with the support of the Syrian opposition liberated the border town of Jarablus in northern Syria, as well as al-Bab. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 3 Trend: As a result of a shooting in Ankara, two people died and one more person got injured, Turkish media reported on Oct. 3. The shooting occurred between two groups of unknowns. The dead and injured are Turkish citizens. Reasons and details of the incident are not reported. A criminal case has been opened and the investigation is underway. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to North Korea at the weekend for denuclearization talks with the countrys leader Kim Jong Un, the State Department said on Tuesday, calling this forward progress, despite negative signals from Pyongyang, according to Reuters. Pompeo will also travel to Japan, South Korea and China from Oct. 6-8, and will be in North Korea on Sunday local time, or Saturday in US Eastern Time. I think it shows forward progress and momentum that the secretary is making his fourth trip back in less than a year, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told a briefing, referring to the Pyongyang stop. Of course, we have quite a ways to go but we look forward to the next steps in this conversation. Pompeos visit comes ahead of a planned second summit between Kim and President Donald Trump. The invitation to return to Pyongyang was made during a meeting with North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho on the sidelines of their United Nations General Assembly last week. Nauert said the stops in Japan, South Korea and China were intended to brief counterparts on the Pyongyang talks. She said he would meet Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Foreign Minister Taro Kono in Tokyo and President Moon Jae-in and Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha in Seoul, while in Beijing he would meet counterparts to discuss bilateral, regional and global issues. At an unprecedented June meeting with Trump, Kim pledged to work toward denuclearization of the Korean peninsula, but his actions have fallen short of Washingtons demands for a complete inventory of its nuclear weapons and irreversible steps to give up an arsenal that potentially threatens the United States. Trump has nevertheless hailed progress and on Saturday took his enthusiasm for his detente with Kim to new heights by declaring at a rally with supporters that we fell in love after exchanging letters. The Republican Party of Armenia (HHK), in a statement released today, says it has not entered into any agreement with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan regarding holding snap parliamentary elections. Pashinyan met with the leaders of the HHK last night, after accusing it, along with the ARF and the Prosperous Armenia Party BHK), of conspiring to hinder the dissolution of the current parliament. Earlier yesterday, the HHK introduced a bill that would make it more difficult for Pashinian to disband the legislature and call new elections. It was approved with support from BHK and ARF MPs. In its statement, the HHK backs snap parliamentary elections in May-June of 2019, at the earliest, and not in December, which is what Pashinyan is pushing for. The HHK also accuses Pashinyan of entering the National Assembly last night not with the aim of discussing that matter, but to present an ultimatum to MPs. The HHK says that the legislature must be free of outside pressure and that it must operate freely, according to the constitution. The New York City Economic Development Corp has selected venture capital firm Jerusalem Venture Partners (JVP) as a partner in establishing a global cybersecurity center in the city, Reuters reports. The initiative will receive a $30 million investment from the City of New York, followed by up to $70 million in private funds. Other partners include Columbia University, New York University and Cornell, the Israeli VC said. As part of the initiative JVP has established a New York City hub focused on developing cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and big data technologies to serve the financial services, media, healthcare and other industries. JVP Chairman Erel Margalit said at least half of its new $200 million fund will be allocated to companies in the hub. We will have 10 companies (a year) in this hub and not just seed companies. Some already have $2 million, $5 million, $10 million in revenue, Margalit told Reuters from New York. JVP, whose Cyber Labs is the largest investment platform in cyber companies in Israel, will leverage public-private partnerships with universities such as Columbia, Cornell and NYU and plans to work with other VCs and strategic partners. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday he was optimistic his planned visit to Pyongyang this weekend would bring progress toward a second summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and in building a path to North Koreas denuclearization, Reuters reports. Pompeo declined comment on negative signals from North Korea, that have included demands for a lifting of sanctions and complaints about Washingtons apparent reluctance to agree to a declaration to end the 1950-53 Korean War without major concessions. Im very happy to be going back to get another chance to continue to advance the commitment that Chairman Kim and President Trump made back in Singapore in the second week of June, Pompeo told a news briefing at the State Department. Im optimistic that well come away from that with better understandings, deeper progress and a plan forward, not only for the summit between the two leaders, but for us to continue the efforts to build out a pathway for denuclearization. At an unprecedented June 12 meeting with Trump, Kim pledged to work toward denuclearization of the Korean peninsula, but his actions have fallen short of Washingtons demands for a complete inventory of its nuclear weapons and irreversible steps to give up an arsenal that potentially threatens the United States. Trump has nevertheless appeared keen on a second summit with Kim, even though recent North Korean statements have suggested the two sides are far from narrowing their differences. North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho told the United Nations last week that continued sanctions were deepening its mistrust in the United States and there was no way Pyongyang would give up its nuclear weapons unilaterally under such circumstances. Wednesdays Washington Post quoted South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha as saying in an interview that to break the stalemate, Washington should hold off on its long-standing demand for an inventory of North Koreas weapons programs and agree to an end-of-war declaration in return for a North Korean pledge to dismantle its Yongbyon nuclear site. A commentary on North Koreas official KCNA news agency this week, however, said the declaration should have been resolved half a century ago and it could never be a bargaining chip to persuade it to denuclearize. Pompeo brushed aside suggestions of differences between himself and Trump over a timeline for North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons. Pompeo said the day of the Trump-Kim summit he was hopeful that there would be major North Korean disarmament by the end of Trumps term in January 2021. KYODO NEWS - Oct 3, 2018 - 17:00 | World, Urgent, All The death toll from the powerful earthquake and subsequent tsunami that struck the Indonesian island of Sulawesi last week has risen to 1,407 as bodies continue to be found in the rubble, authorities said Wednesday. National Disaster Mitigation Agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho told a press conference that another 2,549 people suffered serious injuries, while 114 are listed as missing, including one South Korean. Sutopo also said those displaced in the disaster now total 70,821. The death toll increased from 1,234 the previous day, while the number of seriously injured tripled from 799. Most of the deaths occurred in Palu, the capital of Central Sulawesi province, and the nearby coastal town of Donggala, which bore the brunt of the tsunamis. The epicenter of the magnitude 7.5 quake which struck at 6:02 p.m. Friday at a depth of only 10 kilometers was near Donggala, located about 2,500 km northeast of the capital Jakarta. KYODO NEWS - Oct 3, 2018 - 23:28 | All, World A bipartisan group of U.S. policy experts recommended Wednesday that Japan's Self-Defense Forces and the U.S. military create a combined joint task force to better cope with possible contingencies with China over Taiwan, as well as the South and East China seas, as part of an effort to strengthen the bilateral alliance. Aside from the launch of such a task force, the study group suggested in a report titled "More Important than Ever -- Renewing the U.S.-Japan Alliance for the 21st Century" that Tokyo and Washington expand joint and combined use of bases in Japan and engage in more structured joint operations planning in the face of China's regional assertiveness and North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. Chaired by former Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage and Joseph Nye, a former assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs, the group under the nonprofit Center for Strategic and International Studies urged Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government to spend "more than 1 percent" of Japan's gross domestic product on defense. The report, which contains a set of policy recommendations to boost the Japan-U.S. alliance, is the fourth of its kind, following ones released in 2000, 2007 and 2012. The policy experts criticized President Donald Trump's "America First" security and trade policies, saying his "protectionist policies and questioning of the value of forward U.S. military presence pose a serious risk to the alliance." "While the United States and Japan debate 20th-century tariffs, the 21st-century threats to regional security and prosperity -- particularly from China and North Korea -- are growing," the report said. "Cracks are starting to show in the alliance." Trump's "transactional approach to alliances" and "unconditional engagement of authoritarian leaders" such as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have "undermined perceptions of U.S. support for shared values, including human rights, democracy, free markets and trade, and the rule of law," it said. While pointing to uncertainties about the future of the alliance, the report called for Japan's participation in a proposed combined joint task force as a way of reducing "a major burden" the commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command assumes not only directing the warfight but managing relations with Washington and liaising with allied forces. "If the United States and Japan are to operate more effectively together in a crisis, they should create a combined joint task force for the western Pacific," it said. The report also urged Tokyo and Washington to speed up allied decision making via combined contingency planning, especially when Beijing often relies on "fait accompli tactics," which take advantage of slow decision-making cycles by other parties. "To deepen cooperation, Japan should embed officers from the Self-Defense Forces within relevant U.S. units, including the planning staff of the Indo-Pacific Command," it said. Moreover, the report recommended the inclusion of Japan in the Five Eyes intelligence sharing network with the United States, Britain, Australia, Canada and New Zealand. On the economic front, the report suggested Japan and the United States set up a regional infrastructure fund to counter China's growing clout throughout the Indo-Pacific region with President Xi Jinping's multibillion-dollar "One Belt, One Road" cross-border infrastructure initiative. "China's investment in regional infrastructure is often welcome, but the coercive political and economic leverage it is creating -- and sometime using -- is not," it said. "The U.S.-Japan alliance must demonstrate that it can present an attractive alternative." KYODO NEWS - Oct 3, 2018 - 08:16 | Feature, All, Japan Families of Japanese abducted by North Korea decades ago expressed hope Tuesday that Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his close aides will lead negotiations with Pyongyang to bring back all the victims. Chief Secretary Yoshihide Suga, who had his tenure extended as a government spokesman in the Cabinet reshuffle, was named to double as the minister in charge of the abduction issue. The top government spokesman is known as Abe's right-hand man. (Shigeo Iizuka) "Having a direct subordinate of the prime minister to address the abduction issue is an advantage, which wasn't achieved in the past," said Shigeo Iizuka, who heads the group representing abductees' families. Teruaki Masumoto, whose sister Rumiko was abducted in 1978, said it is hard to evaluate the reshuffle because they have asked for a full-time minister, but said he "welcomes it if the issue is going to be addressed under the Cabinet's initiative." Citing an accord between Japan and North Korea in 2014 under which Pyongyang agreed to reinvestigate the issue of the past abductions but later abandoned, Masumoto said, "I can't trust in the Foreign Ministry. I hope the prime minister's office will take the lead in the negotiations." "I call for immediate action to bring back the victims," said the 80-year-old Iizuka, whose sister Yaeko Taguchi was abducted in 1978 at the age of 22. Before the latest Cabinet reshuffle, the minister of health, labor and welfare has doubled in the role. Tomoyuki Kawazoe, a member of an organization supporting the abductees' families, said, "I think who will be the minister in charge of the abduction issue doesn't matter because the negotiations will be handled by the Foreign Ministry." "At a critical moment in terms of how to start the summit between Japan and North Korea, I want the government to listen to various opinions and tackle them sincerely," he said. ==Kyodo Isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall was predicted in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki and Kasaragod districts. Heeding the call of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, thousands of irate citizens converged on the grounds of the National Assembly in Yerevan last night to voice their opposition to a controversial bill that would make it more difficult for Pashinyan to disband the legislature and call new elections. The grounds have been closed to civilians for years. Introduced by the Republican Party of Armenia (HHK), the bill was passed yesterday with backing from the ARF and the Prosperous Armenia Party (BHK). Pashinyan joined the protesters and then entered the National Assembly to discuss the situation with MPs inside. Two and a half hours later he reemerged, telling the crowd that he would resign as prime minister in the near future in order to hold snap parliamentary elections either in late November of early December. (Under the Armenian constitution, snap elections can be called only if the prime minister resigns and the parliament fails to replace him or her by someone else within two weeks. The approved bill amends the existing Law on Regulations of the National Assembly, and states that if a parliament session cannot be held because of force majeure conditions (lack of quorum, or if MPs are prevented from participating), it should be considered interrupted rather than failed, and resumed at a later date. The intent of the bill appears to be to limit the circumstances under which the parliament can be dissolved.) , 2 . 2018 . In a statement released today the Supreme Body of ARF in Armenia writes that an attempt to establish one-party rule in Armenia, under the guise of democracy, is now taking place. In response to growing popular displeasure with its political stance, the ARF writes that its approval yesterday of a bill to change the parliaments rules of procedure wasnt aimed at undermining talks on holding snap parliamentary elections, as many in Armenia view it, including Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, but rather to ensure the dissolution of the parliament along constitutional lines and the rule of law. The parliament passed the controversial bill, introduced by the Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) and backed by the ARF and Prosperous Armenia Party, yesterday. Prime Minister accused those who voted in favor of the bill as counter-revolutionaries. Thousands in Yerevan encircled the National Assembly last night to protest passage of the bill. The ARF says its decision to join Pashinyans government of national agreement was based on its sincere desire to take the country to a new level of development without unnecessary shocks. The party says that the recent Yerevan Municipal Council election campaign caused tensions in the domestic political life of the country that creates barriers in society, dividing political forces into good guys and bad guys. While the ARF argues that given this environment of heightened tension and mistrust it has decided to pull out of the government, in reality, Pashinyan beat them to the gun and yesterday ordered the dismissal of all ARF ministers in his cabinet. The ARF writes that deciding when to hold snap parliamentary elections isnt the most important issue on the national agenda. Rather, the party argues thats the quality of the elections thats paramount. The party says that holding elections in the current environment is premature and would hinder free and fair competition. It adds that the correct path to elections cannot be reached via threats or pressure tactics. Prime Minister Pashinyan has called for elections in late November or early December at the latest. The HHK, ARF and Prosperous Armenia want to postpone elections to at least May-June of next year. In closing, the ARF says it believes the current impasse can be resolved through dialog. Top photo: ARF office in Yerevan Washington D.C. [U.S.A.], Oct 03 (NT): Following his trip to Asia, United States Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo is slated to visit Pyongyang and meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un next week. The State Department talking head, Heather Nauert announced that Pompeo and Kim will meet in Pyongyang on October 7. Nauert indicated that the talk between both leaders will aim at Pyongyang's nuclear capability as one of the issues that will be discussed. Nauert also emphasized on the call for a discussion between the two countries saying that it shows forward progress and momentum that the UN secretary is making his fourth trip back in less than a year.She added that it shows the US president's commitment to the agreement that he and Chairman Kim made at the Singapore summit. The two are also likely to talk about the second Kim-Trump summit. Worth mention here Pompeo was asked for to visit Pyongyang by North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho when the two met for a summit on the sidelines of the 73rd session of United Nations General Assembly in New York last week. Please call your State Representative and State Senator and tell them to vote against legislation repealing the Parental Notice of Abortion ... Cyber crime threatens losses of $1.7 trillion in Asia Pacific Potential economic loss across Asia Pacific due to cybersecurity incidents can hit a staggering US$1.745 trillion, or over 7 per cent of the regions total GDP, according to a new study titled Understanding the Cybersecurity Threat Landscape in Asia Pacific: Securing the Modern Enterprise in a Digital World. Pham The Truong, country general manager, Microsoft Vietnam, releases an Asia Pacific study on cybersecurity his company did together with Frost & Sullvian. Conducted by Frost & Sullvian and Microsoft, the study involved a survey of 1,300 business and IT decision makers ranging from mid-sized organisations with 250 to 499 employees to large ones with more than 500 employees. It found that more than half the organisations surveyed had either experienced a cybersecurity incident or were not sure if they had one since they did not perform proper forensic or data breach assessment. As companies embrace the opportunities presented by cloud and mobile computing to connect with customers and optimise operations, they take on new risks, Pham The Truong, country general manager, Microsoft Vietnam, said. With traditional IT boundaries disappearing, adversaries now have many new targets to attack. Companies face the risk of significant financial loss, damage to customer satisfaction and market reputationas has been made all too clear by recent high-profile breaches. The study found that large organisations could incur a loss of $30 million, more than 300 times the average loss for a mid-sized organisation ($96,000). Besides, cybersecurity attacks resulted in job losses across different functions in almost seven in 10 organisations that experienced an incident in the last 12 months. To calculate the cost of cybercrime, Frost & Sullivan has created an economic loss model based on macro-economic data and insights shared by the survey respondents. Although the direct losses from cybersecurity breaches are most visible, they are but just the tip of the iceberg, Truong said. There are many other hidden losses that we have to consider from both the indirect and induced perspectives, and the economic loss for organisations suffering from cybersecurity attacks can be often underestimated. According to the study, artificial intelligence (AI) is the next frontier in cybersecurity in cyber threat defence. In a digital world where cyber threats are constantly evolving and the attack surface is rapidly expanding, the study says AI is becoming a potent opponent against cyber attacks as it can detect and act on threat vectors based on data insights. It revealed that three in four of organisations in the region have either adopted or are looking to adopt an AI approach towards boosting cybersecurity. VNS The absolute risk is small, but Consultant, DMSc, Jakob Christensen from the Department of Clinical Medicine and Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark, is nevertheless worried about significantly increased mortality for pregnant women with epilepsy. The risk of dying during pregnancy is negligible for the average Danish woman, but if the woman in question has epilepsy, the probability must be multiplied by five. This is the central result presented in a comprehensive epidemiological study that researchers from Health, Aarhus University, are behind. The study is recently published in the journal Neurology and shows that out of approximately two million pregnant women - including 12,000 women with epilepsy - a total of 176 women died during their pregnancy. Five of them had epilepsy, which means women with epilepsy are a risk group that we should consider following closer, says one of the researchers behind the study, Jakob Christensen. He is a clinical associate professor, DMSc at the Department of Clinical Medicine at Aarhus University and a consultant at the Department of Neurology at Aarhus University Hospital. "Although the absolute risk is small, we have to consider how we can follow pregnant women with epilepsy better than today," says Jakob Christensen. According to the study, pregnant women with epilepsy die of virtually the same conditions and events that women without epilepsy also die of - ranging from e.g. accidents to blood clots, cancer and suicide - although with a greater frequency. "We can't produce statistics on causes of death on the basis of five deceased pregnant women with epilepsy, but we can conclude with great statistical certainty that pregnant women with epilepsy die five times more frequently than other pregnant women," says Jakob Christensen. The research results should be seen in light of the fact that in general, people with epilepsy have a higher mortality rate than the rest of the population. Overall, for women of childbearing age the mortality rate is fifteen times higher. The relative risk of death is thus lower for women with epilepsy who are also pregnant when compared to all women with epilepsy, which as Jakob Christensen points out, may be due to the fact that it is always the most healthy woman who become pregnant. "As a woman with epilepsy, you are on the one hand affiliated with highly-specialised neurological treatment at a hospital, while on the other hand, you need follow-ups from your general practitioner. Patients in this situation risk falling between two stools and ending up being sent back and forth, as one medical service believes the other is taking overall responsibility and vice versa. This could be a partial explanation for the increased mortality, which is particularly seen in people with epilepsy who at the same time suffer from mental illness - something that is unfortunately well documented, for example in Swedish patients with mental illness," says Jakob Christensen. "At the same time, we must take into account that the vast majority of pregnant women with epilepsy receive medication and are closely monitored during pregnancy, and that this probably helps to reduce the overall mortality, because close monitoring means that there is better management of their epileptic seizures," he says. The study was conducted in close collaboration between Jakob Christensen, who meets the patients in the clinical reality, statistician Claus Hstrup Vestergaard from the Research Unit for General Practice under the Department of Public Health, and Associate Professor Bodil Hammer Bech, who works with epidemiology at the Department of Public Health. Methodically, the research group has examined a total of 2,110,084 pregnancies between 2000 and 2013. Among these pregnancies, 11,976 (0.6%) were pregnancies among women with epilepsy; in all cases, "pregnancy-related death" was defined as death during pregnancy and up to 42 days after the end of the pregnancy. Mortality among women with epilepsy was compared with the mortality rate for women of the same age and social background. The Danish study is the result of a number of worrying studies from the US and UK which report a tenfold increase in the risk of dying for pregnant women with epilepsy. But things do not look quite as bad in Denmark. "Even though it can be difficult to compare Denmark with the United States and the UK because the healthcare systems are constructed differently, the study indicates that in Denmark, we're better at dealing with pregnant women with epilepsy than they are in the United States and the United Kingdom, which we should naturally be pleased about. But this is of little consolation for the pregnant Danish women with epilepsy who still have a markedly increased risk of losing their lives during pregnancy. And I definitely think that we should take an interest in this as medical doctors," says Jakob Christensen. More information about epilepsy Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases. Epilepsy can have many different causes, manifestations and prognoses. The common denominator is recurrent epileptic seizures as a result of the signal traffic in larger or smaller networks of nerve cells in the brain 'getting out of control'. Worldwide, approximately sixty million people have epilepsy. Epilepsy affects twelve Danes every day. A total of 50,000 are diagnosed with in Denmark - of these, 65 per cent are free of seizures. The majority of women with epilepsy can become pregnant and have healthy children, but pregnancy in women with epilepsy requires preparation and planning in consultation with a medical doctor, because both frequent epileptic seizures and epilepsy medicine can harm the child. ### Sources: The Danish Epilepsy Association and the Danish Patient Handbook at borger.dk. In the past week, Ryanair Holdings plc RYAAY slashed its profit guidance (excluding Laudamotion) for fiscal 2019 (ending Mar 31, 2020) due to high fuel costs, labor strife, low fares and other headwinds. This Irish low-cost carrier also witnessed a 24-hour walkout on Sep 28, mainly by its cabin crew members in multiple countries across Europe. German pilots also went on strike on the same day. Consequently, travel plans of more than 40,000 passengers across Europe were thrown haywire. Delta Air Lines, Inc. DAL too featured in the news when it unveiled its September traffic report. Load factor (percentage of seats filled by passengers) declined in the month as capacity expansion outweighed traffic growth. Moreover, the company stated that Hurricane Florence is likely to hurt its third-quarter pre-tax income by approximately $30 million. Meanwhile, JetBlue Airways Corporation JBLU announced its intention to sell Basic Economy (cheapest) tickets from next year in a bid to stay afloat in the competitive airline space. Also, Southwest Airlines Co. LUV extended its bookable flight schedule through Jun 8, 2019 as it aims to add new routes and resume some. Expansion-related updates from JetBlue and United Continental Holdings, Inc. UAL too hit the headlines over the past five trading days. (Read the last Airline Stock Roundup for Sep 27, 2018) Recap of the Past Weeks Most Important Stories 1. Delta expects Hurricane Florence to weigh on its third-quarter unit revenues to the tune of roughly 0.5 points. Moreover, significant rise in fuel prices over the past 12 months are expected to limit bottom-line growth. Despite high fuel costs, Delta expects adjusted total revenue per available seat miles (TRASM: a key measure of unit revenue) to increase year over year between 4% and 5% in the third quarter (the previous view had projected the metric to increase in the 3.5-5.5% band). Strong demand for air travel and improving yields contributed to the bullish forecast. Story continues According to Delta, these favorable factors partially mitigated the adverse impact of sharp rise in fuel prices per gallon, which are expected to be between $2.22 and $2.27 in the third quarter. Adjusted pre-tax margin is anticipated to be approximately 13% (mid-point of the guided range in July). Non-fuel unit costs are anticipated to be roughly flat year over year. The company envisions third-quarter earnings per share in the band of $1.70-$1.80 (the previous view had projected the metric in the $1.65-$1.85 range). Delta carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. 2. Joining the likes of Delta and American Airlines Group Inc. AAL, JetBlue has decided to introduce a fare class that will offer the cheapest tickets starting next year. Passengers booking tickets under the fare class will naturally have fewer options than those opting for the regular economy tickets (read more: JetBlue Follows Rivals to Offer Basic Economy Fares in 2019). In a separate development, JetBlue announced plans to bump up its Palm Springs service with new nonstop flights to Boston. Additionally, the carrier will extend the duration of its current seasonal service to New York JFK (read more: JetBlue Boosts Palm Springs Service for Winter Travel). 3. In a customer-friendly move, Southwest Airlines intends to begin a new nonstop service between San Jose and El Paso on Sundays, effective Apr 14, 2019. Additionally, the airline will launch seasonal nonstop flights connecting Cleveland with Orlando, and Milwaukee with Fort Myers. The Saturday service will start on Oct 6. While the next day, the company will initiate flights connecting Oklahoma City and Nashville, Denver and El Paso plus Oakland and Tucson. These flights will be operational only on Sundays (read more: Southwest Airlines to Add Flights & Resume Few Services). 4. For fiscal 2019, beleaguered airline Ryanair Holdings expects profit after tax between 1.10 billion and 1.20 billion (the earlier guidance had projected the metric between 1.25 billion and 1.35 billion). Fuel bill is expected to be 460 million higher in fiscal 2019 compared with fiscal 2018 (the earlier guidance had projected a 430 million year-over-year increase). In the second half of fiscal 2019, air fares are expected to decline approximately 2% year over year. Traffic in the fiscal year is also likely to suffer due to the strikes. Winter capacity has too been trimmed by 1% due to the headwinds. Adding to the gloom, Ryanair stated that it might have to trim its fiscal 2019 outlook further in the event of more disruptions in the third quarter of fiscal 2019. 5. United Continentals wholly owned subsidiary, United Airlines, announced plans to enhance travel experience for customers during the upcoming ski season. The carrier will be offering more than 100 flights with 10,000 plus seats daily to reach 12 top ski destinations across the United States (read more: United Continental Proposes More Flights for Ski Travel). In a separate development, the carrier introduced additional flights on its transcontinental routes connecting New York/Newark with Los Angeles and San Francisco. Price Performance The following table shows the price movement of the major airline players over the last week and during the past six months. The table above shows that almost all airline stocks traded in the red over the past week leading to the NYSE ARCA Airline Index decreasing 4%. Over the course of six months, the sector tracker decreased 11.1% due to multiple headwinds including high fuel costs. What's Next in the Airline Space? September traffic reports from the likes of United Continental and Allegiant Travel Company ALGT are expected in the coming days. Best Electric Car Stock? You'll Never Guess It. Zacks Research has released a report that may shock many investors. One stock stands out as the best way to invest in the surge to electric cars. And it's not the one you may think! Much like petroleum 150 years ago, lithium battery power is set to shake the world, creating millionaires and reshaping geo-politics. Soon electric vehicles (EVs) may be cheaper than gas guzzlers. Some are already reaching 265 miles on a single charge. With battery prices plummeting and charging stations set to multiply, revenues that were already at $31 billion in 2016 are expected to blast to over $67 billion by the end of 2022. See Zacks Best EV Stock Free >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Delta Air Lines, Inc. (DAL) : Free Stock Analysis Report Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) : Free Stock Analysis Report United Continental Holdings, Inc. (UAL) : Free Stock Analysis Report JetBlue Airways Corporation (JBLU) : Free Stock Analysis Report American Airlines Group Inc. (AAL) : Free Stock Analysis Report Allegiant Travel Company (ALGT) : Free Stock Analysis Report Ryanair Holdings PLC (RYAAY) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research MarketWatch The good news: Retirement at 58 may very well be within your reach, financial advisers said. One of the highest-priority tasks you will face if you retire at 58 (or any time before Medicare is available at 65 years old) is health insurance. There are a few options to be covered, including saving now for whatever cost it will be in the open market later on; taking on a part-time job with health benefits so that you can take advantage of the healthcare, earn a little extra income but still have more freedom than a full-time job requires; or have your wife take on a job that provides the family health insurance (if she isnt already). By Marta Nogueira and Alexandra Alper RIO DE JANEIRO, Oct 2 (Reuters) - General Electric Co's unit Baker Hughes is preparing an offer for a production-sharing deal with Brazil's Petrobras, a Baker Hughes executive said on Tuesday, as the state-run oil company seeks creative ways to boost output from mature fields. Reuters reported in June that Baker Hughes was considering a bid, while Halliburton Co and Schlumberger NV were already preparing them, seeking to clinch Petrobras' first-ever tender for a production sharing deal with an oil services company. "It's a lot of work. Anything that is the first time requires lots of work," Alejandro Duran, Baker Hughes' Brazil country manager, told Reuters in an interview. He added that talks with Petrobras were already under way. He said Baker Hughes will host additional meetings in Houston soon to discuss the issue. "It is interesting, Petrobras coming to the market with a new thing. It has to be a win-win. That is the most important thing now." Petrobras did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Petrobras, the world's most indebted oil company, is looking for ways to squeeze better returns from some of its aging fields as it focuses its limited capital budget on developing the country's prolific pre-salt fields, where billions of barrels of oil are trapped under a thick layer of salt offshore. A deal would represent a novel way for it to boost output from mature fields without losing control or risking capital, by partnering with one of the world's largest oil service providers. Story continues It would also allow services companies to put to use expensive equipment idled for years as Brazil's oil industry was hammered by low oil prices and a massive investigation into corruption at Petrobras. The state-owned oil company is paying an $853 million fine to the U.S. Justice Department to settle charges related to that probe, which found evidence that political appointees on its board and elsewhere handed overpriced contracts to engineering firms in return for illicit party funding and bribes. The oil services companies are expected to compete in the tender by promising to boost production from the Potiguar basin's waning Canto do Amaro field in northern Brazil, where production began in 1986, and offering a bigger share of output to Petrobras, sources said in June. Based on the results from the project, Petrobras will decide whether to apply this model in other areas, the oil company said in July, confirming the Reuters story. Proposals were originally due in June, but at least one company sought an extension. Duran said he thought proposals were due this month but could be extended again. The winner would be responsible for investment and operation and maintenance costs for the wells. The tender includes a 15-year contract and Petrobras would remain the operator. GE's Baker Hughes has not typically taken stakes in customer projects. However, last year it announced a deal with Twinza Oil Limited to provide a range of services for the development of an offshore gas field in Papua New Guinea. (Reporting by Marta Nogueira and Alexandra Alper in Rio de Janeiro Writing by Alexandra Alper Editing by Christian Plumb and Matthew Lewis) NAIROBI, Oct 3 (Reuters) - Kamal Bhattacharya, the head of Safaricom's innovation lab has left Kenya's biggest telecoms company less than a year and a half after he joined. The former long-serving IBM executive left last month after leading Safaricom's Alpha innovation unit since April 2017. Bhattacharya told Reuters he had left to focus on a technology start-up which involves the education sector. "(Bhattacharya) elected to leave the company to pursue other interests effective 7th September", said an e-mail sent to Safaricom staff and seen by Reuters on Wednesday. The message did not give any details about plans for the innovation lab. Bhattacharya presided over the piloting of a social messaging app that will link to its widely used mobile money platform Mpesa in an attempt to move the company into the application business. Alpha, which was set up in 2017, has not announced any other pilot products apart from the app, which is called Bonga, meaning 'chat' in Kiswahili. Safaricom is 35 percent owned by South African group Vodacom and 5 percent by Vodacom's major shareholder, Britain's Vodafone. (Reporting by Duncan Miriri Additional reporting by Maggie Fick Editing by Maggie Fick and Alexander Smith) MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - The steel industries of Mexico and Canada on Tuesday urged their governments to resolve a tariff dispute with the United States before signing a new trilateral trade deal that was unveiled this week. In late May, the Trump administration announced tariffs of 25 percent on steel imports and 10 percent on aluminum imports, prompting quick retaliation from top trading partners including Canada and Mexico. Late on Sunday, the United States and Canada reached a deal to overhaul the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), complementing an accord the Trump administration brokered with Mexico, the third member of NAFTA, in late August. Mexican steel producers association Canacero welcomed the new trade pact, called the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), but said it viewed "with concern" the ongoing steel dispute and the "serious situation" it created for the industry. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs would remain in place for Canada and Mexico until they "can do something different like quotas, perhaps." In a statement, Canacero said it supported efforts to find a solution to the impasse before the leaders of Mexico, the United States and Canada signed USMCA, which officials say could happen at a G20 summit at the end of November. If no solution can be found, Mexico should put tariffs on U.S. steel to level the playing field, Canacero said. Mexico has already slapped tariffs on U.S. pork, bourbon, motor boats and other products. Canada has levied tariffs on a range of U.S. imports, including steel and aluminum. Story continues Joseph Galimberti, president of the Canadian Steel Producers Association, said he expected Canada's government to continue to support the industry after the USMCA breakthrough. "There is clearly an opportunity to constructively engage the United States between the achievement of a deal in principle and the ratification or signature of that deal," he said. Canada is the top exporter of steel and aluminum to the United States. The United Steelworkers of Canada adopted a less conciliatory tone after the new trade deal was announced, calling it a "sell-out" for Canadian workers. Mexican officials have said they hope the steel and aluminum dispute can be resolved before USMCA is signed. Since the tariff row broke out, Mexican steel exports to the United States had fallen 30 percent on average, Canacero said. (Reporting by Dave Graham; Additional reporting by Allison Martell in Toronto; Editing by Paul Simao) FILE PHOTO: A liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage facility of the ENN Group Co is under construction in Baoding FILE PHOTO: A liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage facility of the ENN Group Co is under construction in Baoding, Hebei province, China, December 5, 2017. REUTERS/Thomas Peter/File Photo By Sabina Zawadzki LONDON (Reuters) - The launch of a massive liquefied natural gas (LNG) export project in Canada has finally fired the starting gun on a wave of plan approvals around the world, needed to avoid a supply crunch after 2020. Royal Dutch Shell said it would export LNG from Western Canada by 2025 after approving a $14 billion project, hot on the heels of Qatar's commitment last week to expand its facilities. The two announcements, adding 37 million tonnes a year (mtpa) to the 290 million tonnes traded in 2017, are just the start of project approvals - known as final investment decisions (FIDs) - that have been waiting in company drawers while LNG prices recovered from a three-year slump. "We believe 2019 could be the busiest year of LNG FIDs ever," Wood Mackenzie's director of North America gas, Dulles Wang, said. Despite a slump in global LNG prices between 2015 and 2017, many had long worried there would be a global supply gap at some point after 2020 due to broadly fast-rising demand and the lack of new export projects to produce corresponding supply. Several projects that had been touted for years, such as Shell's LNG Canada venture, were put on the backburner. LNG prices began climbing last winter and have since broadly stayed at four-year highs, seasonally, driven by China's policy-dictated shift to gas away from coal. "If you look at the demand curve and the supply coming on stream, there are simply not enough projects that are being sanctioned or under development to meet demand by 2023-24," Shell's chief financial officer, Jessica Uhl, told reporters on Tuesday. Story continues Shell's vote of confidence in these new market conditions now gives credence that projects with capacities of around 175 mtpa will be approved by the end of next year as planned, with most expected to be running by 2024. Aside from these, projects with another 51 mtpa in the United States have already been approved and are expected to start operations between now and the end of 2021. Forecasts vary, but LNG demand is expected to jump to about 360 mtpa by 2023, the International Energy Agency has said, while consultancy Wood Mackenzie is projecting 450 mtpa. "There needs to be 200 mtpa LNG capacity authorized by 2025 to meet future demand this is a colossal boom, a 42 percent expansion on the entire capacity installed since 1962," Bernstein analysts said in a research note. "Ultimately, this is the start of a major LNG investment wave," Bernstein said. Qatar Petroleum said it would build a fourth mega train, or production facility, with capacity of 32 mtpa to bring its supply to 110 mtpa by early 2023, more than twice China's consumption today and enough to feed China's demand that year. Other large project approvals on the horizon include Novatek's Arctic LNG-2 project with 19.8 mtpa capacity after the Russian gas company's Yamal export facility started operations smoothly and quickly at the end of last year. Two projects are planned in Mozambique backed by different commercial models: Exxon Mobil's, like LNG Canada, does not make use of long-term offtake agreements to finance it. The other is more conventional, operated by Anadarko. A host of U.S. approvals are also anticipated, including from Tellurian for the 27.6-mtpa Driftwood project in the first quarter of next year, which is seen as a potential industry disruptor because of its LNG supply pricing models. (Reporting by Sabina Zawadzki; additional reporting by Ron Bousso in London and Jessica Jaganathan in Singapore; editing by Dale Hudson) (Reuters) - Some Tesla directors have proposed that James Murdoch, fellow board member at the electric carmaker and chief executive officer of Twenty-First Century Fox Inc, succeed Elon Musk as its chairman, the New York Times reported on Tuesday, citing people involved in the board's discussions. Murdoch hasn't volunteered for the post nor has he discussed it with any other director, the newspaper reported. The board has not engaged in any "serious" discussions of who should be the chairman, the paper said, citing a source close to the selection process. The New York Times also said Musk had threatened to resign, in a phone call with directors, if the board insisted that he and the company enter into a settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). However, the next day, Tesla's attorneys were back at the SEC requesting them for a second chance, this time with Musk's 'grudging approval', the paper said. Tesla and Musk reached a settlement with regulators on Saturday, where they agreed to pay $20 million each to financial regulators and the billionaire will step down as chairman but remain as CEO. Reuters couldn't reach out to Murdoch for comment. Tesla and Twenty-First Century Fox were not immediately available for comment outside regular business hours. (Reporting by Rishika Chatterjee in Bengaluru; Editing by Gopakumar Warrier) (Bloomberg) -- First it was Americas best-selling electric car. Then it became the best-selling luxury car. Now, against the odds, Tesla Inc.s Model 3 is becoming one of the best-selling sedans in America, period. Automakers on Tuesday reported monthly and quarterly sales totals. For the three months that ended in September, Tesla delivered more Model 3s than all but four of the top sedans sold in the U.S., regardless of size or price. Its an imperfect ranking because Tesla didnt break out sales by country, and the Model 3 tally included some deliveries to customers in Canada. And the climb comes at a time when Americans prefer crossovers, SUVs and trucks by an ever-wider margin. Nonetheless, the third-quarter showing was unprecedented for an electric car and a remarkable turnabout for Tesla, which struggled for much of the last year to mass-produce the sedan. Teslas competitors are feeling it. Sales of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the best-selling luxury sedan in the U.S., plunged 24 percent last month and are down 28 percent for the year through September.BMW AGs namesake brand barely managed to eke out an increase last month, on the strength of its X3 crossover. Tesla is now ramping up their volumes, and its putting pressure on that market segment, Bernhard Kuhnt, chief executive officer of BMW North America, said of the luxury sedan space in an interview Tuesday. In that environment, Im very, very pleased to say we were up.BMW unveiled a revamped version of its signature 3 Series sedan Tuesday at the Paris auto show. Its next battery-electric vehicle, the iX3, wont be ready until 2020. By then, Daimler AGs Mercedes and Volkswagen AGs Audi and Porsche brands should have a slate of electric contenders. Jaguar plans to start delivering its electric I-Pace to U.S. customers next month. Its unclear if any of these offerings will have enough appeal to give internal combustion cars a run for their money. For now, Tesla is the first and only electric car to break into the ranks that are dominated by Japanese and Korean carmakers. And its doing so at a higher price than other mass-market cars. The most expensive versions of the Model 3 are currently the most popular, with an average selling price approaching $60,000. Tesla says cheaper versions starting at $35,000designed to appeal to a wider group of buyersmay be coming around the end of the year. Story continues To contact the authors of this story: Tom Randall in New York at trandall6@bloomberg.netGabrielle Coppola in New York at gcoppola@bloomberg.net To contact the editor responsible for this story: Craig Trudell at ctrudell1@bloomberg.net, Aaron Rutkoff 2018 Bloomberg L.P. Starting Saturday and continuing every day through Oct. 14. Lift-offs at 6 a.m. daily, evening glows at 8 p.m. this weekend and Oct. 18-21. Full list of events at balloonfiessta.com/event-info/event-schedule. No offense to Colorado Springs. Paul Smith hears its a beautiful place to fly hot air balloons. He hears only great things about the Labor Day Lift Off. Its just that the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is something else entirely. Think times five or six, says Smith, executive director of the worlds grandest celebration of its kind. In the Springs, local balloon lovers are accustomed to nearly 100 colorful orbs filling the early morning sky above Memorial Park at the start of every September. Across the state line, 370 miles away at Balloon Fiesta Park, that number is close to 600. They are piloted by men and women from almost 20 countries. An estimated 850,000 people flock to New Mexico for what is now a nine-day spectacle, with lift-offs at dawn and glows at night, along with laser shows, fireworks, live music, chainsaw carving and much more. An estimated 25 million photos are taken during the fiesta, earning it the unofficial title of the Worlds Most Photographed Event. What started in 1972 with a dozen balloons launching from a mall parking lot is now a bucket-list festival held in a field with the Sandia Mountains as a backdrop. New Mexicos most populous city has become known globally for the fiesta. How? Smith, an organizer since 1997, credits Sid Cutter. He was willing to put his money where his mouth was, Smith says. Considered the first owner of a hot air balloon in Albuquerque, Cutter decided to make something more out of that first flight 47 years ago, intended simply as a birthday bash for a radio station. According to history maintained by the Fiesta, 273 balloons had registered by 1978, with hundreds more flying through the next decade. They didnt have enough hotel rooms back then, Smith says, so they just kind of asked people to put (pilots) up in their homes, and they did. The green chile and Southwest hospitality have been instrumental to the fiesta thriving, he says. So has the climate. The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce boasts 310 days of sunshine, with an average annual rainfall of 9 inches. Pilots take off in hopes of catching the legendary Albuquerque Box, a wind pattern that ensures balloons land exactly where they launched. That happens in other places of the world, but not very many, and not nearly as often as it happens here, says Smith. Still, Mother Nature being unpredictable, Smith recommends attendees give themselves more than one day to spectate. He also recommends first-timers try to carve out a weekday, less packed than Saturdays and Sundays. And finally: Expect the unexpected. Nothing can prepare you for the sight, Smith says. It has, pardon the pun, an uplifting effect, he says. People say, Arent you getting tired of it? To walk around the park and see little kids looking up with their mouths wide open and eyes twinkling, thats really what makes it all worthwhile. SETH BOSTER, The Gazette, seth.boster@gazette.com A woman carries items from her damaged house near the ship swept ashore during Fridays tsunami in Donggala, central Sulawesi. Yes, you can transfer your domain to any registrar or hosting company once you have purchased it. Since domain transfers are a manual process, it can take up to 5 days to transfer the domain. Domains purchased with payment plans are not eligible to transfer until all payments have been made. Please remember that our 30-day money back guarantee is void once a domain has been transferred. For transfer instructions to GoDaddy, please click here. California zinfandel has long been my favorite red wine. There are many reasons it should be yours, too. It can be made in different styles: f A Colorado Springs police officer was injured early Monday when another driver turned left in front of his cruiser as he traveled south on Nor Trinity College Dublin presented Caitriona Lally last week with the Rooney Prize for Irish Literature. Lally is a janitor at the college. MUST CREDIT: Photo for The Washington Post by Eoin Rafferty All six Colorado Springs police officers who were injured Tuesday in training at Fort Carson, have been released from the hospital, police tweeted Wednesday. None of the injuries was serious, police Lt. Howard Black said. Five officers were treated at a hospital and released, and another was hospitalized overnight as a precaution, Black said. The simulator exploded at an urban training center near the posts Camp Red Devil, said Col. Brian Wortinger, the Fort Carson garrison commander. Military units were training on counter-IED (improvised explosive device) on the post, Wortinger said. One of the devices that they were using (which) simulates the sights and sounds of combat as safely as possible was in the training area, he said. Simultaneously, we had Colorado Springs police out here doing their police training that encountered one of these devices. The simulator that exploded appeared to be made partly of cardboard, he said. Fifteen to 20 officers with two police riot teams were training. The exercise was cut short after the mishap, Black said. Department personnel, including some tactical and specialized units, routinely train at the post, he said. Officials could not say how the IED got on the site, when the blast occurred or whether the explosion came during training or a break. We are way too early to answer any of those questions, Black said. We need more time to truly understand what occurred at this site. Fort Carson will investigate, Wortinger said. Unfortunately, the business that both we are in and CSPD are in is an inherently dangerous business, and the training itself can often be dangerous as well, the commander said. Well be looking at what we were supposed to do, what we actually did, and then reconciling what if anything we need to change about our procedures. The training center, built at the height of the Iraq War, has buildings that replicate a city and an underground sewage system that allows mock insurgents to pop up during training. LETTERS: Bike lanes in Colorado Springs are being used; public gets no voice on transportation The Republican candidate for Colorado treasurer promises not to accept a state paycheck if hes elected. Rather, Brian Watsons pay would continue to roll in from the commercial real estate investment company he heads because he plans to keep working there. His company manages $1 billion in assets, owns buildings in 16 states and employs about 50 people, Watson acknowledged in June during an interview with Jon Caldara, president of the right-leaning Independence Institute. He founded Northstar Commercial Partners in 2000 and is its chairman and CEO. If elected, Watson told Caldara, hell continue as chairman of his company, though he wants to be a proactive state treasurer. Asked why he wouldnt place his assets in a blind trust and let someone else run his business, Watson told Caldara: Partly, just like Im going to have a fiduciary responsibility to the people of Colorado with their money at the state Treasurers Office, so I am in a fiduciary responsibility with my current investors. The exchange was little noted at the time, but the Colorado Democratic Party spotlighted Watsons comments in a news release Tuesday. Watson told Colorado Politics his company does not do business for the state and wouldnt take any state incentives. We do not want to incur any conflicts of interest or any benefits in my role as public servant other than serving the people of Colorado and trying to make a positive difference, he said. But Watson would be quite a bit more hands off than now at his company, said campaign spokesman Kyle Forti. Indeed, Watson told Caldara hell give the treasurer seat its full-time due and will donate a few hours a week or a month to his company to make sure that people are executing and moving forward. The people that know me know I work really, really hard, he said. But a failure to step down or place his assets in a blind trust would almost certainly be a conflict of interest, said Jane Feldman, former executive director of the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission and now an ethics consultant in Denver. To me, it presents a clear conflict of interest because one of the things that the treasurer does is decide how to invest the states funds, Feldman said, citing the state statute that says conflicts can occur between an officials public duty and private interest. If he is going to be investing the states funds while still also advising private clients, to me thats a clear conflict of interest, Feldman said. The state investments could benefit Watsons company or his clients, she said. Elected officials or state employees with concerns could file a complaint with the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission, which then could rule on the question, Feldman said. Or they could ask the Attorney Generals Office for guidance. A similar issue arose in 2011 with then-Secretary of State Scott Gessler, Feldman noted. Gessler wanted to work as an elected official but keep his job as an attorney. He ultimately left the law firm. The publics distaste for his split time was a significant factor, she said. But I think most people think he got an opinion from the state Attorney Generals Office, Feldman said. The AGs Office didnt respond to messages seeking comment, and Dino Ioannides, executive director of the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission, declined to comment. Feldman acknowledged that she supports Watsons opponent, state Rep. Dave Young, D-Greeley. Watson told Caldara: My whole business model is going out and buying vacant, distressed commercial real estate assets to create jobs and opportunities and to empower Americans. What were looking for is how can we take a vacant building and turn it into a charter school or a business incubator or a productive work environment. Young takes issue with part of that business model, though. Charter schools are funded by taxpayer dollars in Colorado, he said. To remain as chairman of a company that profits off taxpayers is a huge conflict of interest for a state treasurer. If hes elected, Young said, hell be completely transparent with his finances. Potential conflicts aside, Feldman also noted that the treasurers job is a full-time. She questioned how Watson could juggle both positions. Ernest Luning of Colorado Politics contributed to this report. conrad.swanson@gazette.com @conrad_swanson Correction: This story has been updated to include a word that was inadvertently omitted from a quote of Watsons. Cuba isnt as far from Colorado as you think, thanks to HavanaGrill, a gem of a restaurant on the South Academy Boulevard corridor. Dont be surprised to find the place crowded with those dining in or carrying out; any wait for a coveted table is worth it. Even with a packed house, our server took her time answering questions about the menu items. For some reason, we warranted table service, while nearly everyone else ordered at the counter. (Thats where we paid once we established how things work). One of the two owners had a restaurant in Miami for more than 20 years. The South Florida influence is evident in a number of dishes, says a close friend from Little Havana. The Cuban steak sandwich ($7.95) is just one example, with slices of marinated steak on Cuban bread with tomatoes, grilled onions and tiny, crispy potato sticks: slivers of chips made to look like miniature french fries. I think I enjoyed the few shared bites more than my friend did. The chips add an interesting element, and the bread, similar to a French roll, held everything together without crumbling after a few nibbles. Ive sampled vaca frita ($11.95) before. HavanaGrills execution is exceptional. Shredded beef, lightly sauteed in oil so it gets a crispy finish, is topped with grilled onions. The food on the plate was more than enough for two meals. All entrees include two sides. Options are white beans with rice or moros rice (a combination of black beans, white rice, pieces of grilled pork and herbs), sweet plantains or french fries. The only thing that threw us off was when our server asked if we wanted beef or chicken. Vaca means cow, so we didnt consider poultry an option. But its on the menu. Our server recommended the fried pork chunks ($10.95). It sounds much more interesting in Spanish: masas de puerco. These are fist-size pieces of pork that have been lightly fried, so the result is a crusty exterior encasing tender meat. Even though the moros rice also contains pork, it was the perfect accompaniment, as were the sweet plantains, which are sweet and gooey like caramelized bananas. The shrimp Creole ($12.99) seemed out of place, but we were told its one of the owners favorites. Its easy to see why. Served in a large cup, with the same side options available, this is chock-full of shrimp, with nothing to suggest anything to do with the bayou states. The tomato base includes garlic and oregano, with a trace of the green pepper, onion and celery trinity. The only thing missing was bread to sop up the extra juices. We made the mistake of ordering the tostones ($3.25), which are breaded and fried plantains. They are dry and bland compared with their sweet counterparts. We wanted to share a vanilla flan ($3.50), but it was sold out. Several other desserts are available, including pastries and tres leches cake ($4.25), which we ordered. When it was delivered to our table, the server said, You are about to fall in love. She was right. The airy cake was just the right amount of sweet, despite the thick white icing. Daily specials are available, and HavanaGrill is open for breakfast. Hours recently have been expanded to seven days a week. Prices are not only reasonable, but also remarkable given the quantity and quality of the food. Miami, Oct. 02, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ocean Bank hosted a presentation by officials from Homeland Security Investigations Miami (HSI) on the U.S. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) Advisory on Public Corruption in Venezuela, highlighting steps financial institutions can take to avoid falling prey of money laundering red flags and prevent proceeds from Venezuelan public corruption from moving through the U.S. financial system. The presentation by John Tobon, Deputy Special Agent in Charge for HSI, included how Venezuelan officials and Venezuelan state-owned entities attempt to manipulate the system through seemingly legitimate contracts, shell corporations and trading companies. Tobon oversees HSI financial crime and money laundering investigations in South Florida. Holding this event with HSI emphasizes Ocean Banks culture of complying with FinCEN rules and regulations, said President and CEO Agostinho Alfonso Macedo. Ocean Bank does not and will not open accounts for the Venezuelan government or officials of the Venezuelan government or anyone classified by the U.S. government as a Politically Exposed Person from Venezuela. In attendance at the seminar, moderated by Daniel Gutierrez, V.P, Regulatory Risk Manager for Ocean Bank and Chair of the Florida International Bankers Association's (FIBA) Anti-Money Laundering Committee, were Ocean Banks senior management team, officers who handle Venezuelan business accounts and the BSA/Regulatory Risk staff. At Ocean Bank we hold our officers and staff to the highest standard, Macedo said. This event continues to educate the Ocean Bank team on current global issues targeting our industry. The presentation included Red Flags banks should look for in dealing with Venezuela: Transactions involving Venezuelan government contracts that are directed to personal accounts. Transactions involving Venezuelan government contracts that are directed to companies that operate in an unrelated line of business. Transactions involving shell corporations, general trading companies, or companies that lack a general business purpose. Documentation corroborating transactions involving Venezuelan government contracts that include charges at substantially higher prices than market rates or that include overly simple documentation. Payments involving Venezuelan government contracts that originate from non-official Venezuelan accounts or from third parties that are not Venezuelan Government entities. Cash deposits instead of wire transfers in the accounts of companies with Venezuelan government contracts. Transactions for the purchase of real estateprimarily in the South Florida and Houston, Texas regionsinvolving current or former Venezuelan government officials. About Ocean Bank Ocean Bank is the largest independent, state-chartered commercial bank headquartered in Florida, with $3.8 billion in assets. Chartered in 1982, Ocean Bank operates its branch network throughout Miami-Dade and Broward counties. The community bank has received numerous awards and accolades from the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, The Beacon Council and the Florida Department of Education, among others, for its support of our South Florida communities. For more information, log on to www.oceanbank.com. Attachment Tampa, FL, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TAMPA, Fla. - Unemployment rates in the U.S. and Florida are hovering around 4 percent , according the Bureau of Labor Statistics. While that figure reflects a positive trend for many in the workforce, it could be impacting a certain subset of employees in surprising ways, said Mitch Feldman, an employment law attorney in Florida. Common wisdom holds that low unemployment rates are good for everybody, Feldman said. However, someone who is fired for unlawful reasons may actually find it more difficult to find another job in this labor market. Feldman said that being fired has several negative consequences, including a lack of income, a damaged reputation and resume, and a loss of referrals. When a worker is wrongfully terminated, they can use the legal system for recourse, but this process can be lengthy and leave a worker in limbo, further damaging their prospects for employment. The longer someone is unemployed, the more difficult it is to find employment. Of those without a job, around 25 percent have been unemployed for six months or longer. Wrongful termination includes being fired for many reasons, including discrimination based on an employees race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability or gender; filing complaints about problems in the workplace; and a health condition or disability. Laws forbid employers from firing workers based on these factors, but that doesnt stop some employers from doing so, said Feldman. While workers have the law on their side and can pursue past-due wages or reinstatement in their job, the time between firing and winning a claim can leave some workers in a difficult situation. Wrongfully fired workers face injustices that go beyond termination, Feldman said. An employer who fires their worker unfairly creates a ripple effect in that workers life and all but erases the work experience theyve earned for however long theyve been at that job. Despite the hardships facing wrongfully terminated workers, Feldman said he believes that they can benefit greatly from standing their ground and being persistent, both in their legal claim and in their hopes for future employment. If youve been fired unlawfully, the most important thing to remember is that the law is on your side, Feldman said. A good employee who stands up for their rights will not only get the recourse they deserve through our legal system, theyll continue to be afforded opportunities that reflect their hard work. About Feldman Williams : Re: A certain machine drills 30 holes in 8 minutes. At that constant rate, [ #permalink Bunuel wrote: A certain machine drills 30 holes in 8 minutes. At that constant rate, how many holes will 4 such machines drill in \(1\frac{1}{3}\) hours? (A) 300 (B) 900 (C) 960 (D) 1,200 (E) 2,560 First of, \(1\frac{1}{3}\) = 60 + 1/3*60 = 80 minutes 1 machine ---- 8 minutes ------ 30 holes (Rate = 30/8 holes per minute) 4 machines ------ 80 minutes ------ 30/8*80*4 holes 1200 (D) "Do not watch clock; Do what it does. KEEP GOING." Signature Read More _________________ Re: A mosquito bite can transmit to a person the parasite that causes mala [ #permalink eyunni wrote: A mosquito bite can transmit to a person the parasite that causes malaria, and the use of mosquito nets over children's beds can significantly reduce the incidence of malarial infection for children in areas where malaria is common. Yet public health officials are reluctant to recommend the use of mosquito nets over children's beds in such areas. Which of the following, if true, would provide the strongest grounds for the public health officials' reluctance? (A) Early exposure to malaria increases the body's resistance to it and results in a lesser likelihood of severe life-threatening episodes of malaria. (B) Mosquito bites can transmit to people diseases other than malaria. (C) Mosquito nets provide protection from some insect pests other than mosquitoes. (D) Although there are vaccines available for many childhood diseases, no vaccine has been developed that is effective against malaria. (E) The pesticides that are most effective against mosquitoes in regions where malaria is common have significant detrimental effects on human health. The paradox is that public health officials are reluctant to recommend the use of mosquito nets over childrens beds in areas where malaria is common even though a mosquito bite can transmit the parasite that causes malaria and the use of mosquito nets over childrens beds can significantly reduce the incidence of malarial infection for children in areas where malaria is common. Option B mentions that a mosquito bite can transmit diseases other than malaria. That would be more reason to use the mosquito nets, so this option does not explain why public health officials are reluctant to recommend the use of mosquito nets. So, Option B can be eliminated. Option C also provides a reason for mosquito nets to be used. It doesnt provide an explanation for the reluctance of the officials. So, Option C can be eliminated. Option D states that there is no effective vaccine for malaria. So, that would actually be reason for the nets to be used. Since this option doesnt explain the officials reluctance, Option D can also be eliminated. Option E only provides a reason for pesticides not to be used, not for mosquito nets not to be used. So, Option E can be eliminated. Option A provides a reason for the officials reluctance. If by exposing children to malaria early increases resistance to it, and prevent life-threatening episodes of it later, the officials would be in favour of exposing children to the disease. Therefore, A is the most appropriate option. This is an Explain the Paradox type of question.Jayanthi Kumar._________________ "Immune to" or "Immune from"? "Immune to" or "Immune from"? Immune has a number of meanings, including "free or exempt" and "marked by protection": As long as the Roth has been open for at least five years prior to your death, the money in that account is immune from federal income taxes. For the first time in its history, the Court declares an entire class of offenders immune from a noncapital sentence using the categorical approach it previously reserved for death penalty cases alone. In medical contexts, immune means "having a high degree of resistance to a disease or the effects of a drug or chemical": The idea is that when the genetically engineered mice mate with the native mice, their offspring would also be immune to Lyme disease. Over time, this would reduce the prevalence of the disease. Williams said Kansas is not immune to earthquakes. There are fault lines near Manhattan, and the eastern half of the state sits between two major mid-continental faults Liberals are not immune from temptation and hubris even when they mouth correct sentiments. immune to Up went his temperature; off to bed I packed him; and in a week he was all right again, and absolutely immune from typhoid for the rest of his life. Third, the fortunate ones of us who do recover develop antibodies that leave us immune against a recurrence of the disease for a long time In summary: If you're immune from something, it cannot reach you. If you're immune to something, it will not affect you . My SC approach flowchart My Verbal Flashcards (no one is ideal, please correct if you see any mistakes or gaps in my explanation, it will be helpful for both of us, thank you) ___________________ "Nothing in this life is to be feared, it is only to be understood" ~ Marie Curie Signature Read More My post seems to be out of the subject discussed.But I've found some useful article about usage ofand decided to shareEither way, it's best to wash your hands.When it comes to language, no one is immune to making mistakes, and unfortunately, when we make mistakes, none of us are immune from criticism.And there are questions to which we have no immunity, like whether immune should be followed by to or from. Wendy Connick, Associated Press, 14 Sept. 2017 Justice Clarence Thomas, in Graham v. Florida, 17 May 2010 Christina Quinn, in PBS Newshour, 12 Sept. 2017The traditional advice given by usage commentators is that you become immune to a disease or a drug, as in the above examples, but immune from something when the object is some kind of obligation or duty, such as taxation, or something that can happen to you, such as prosecution. (In Latin, immunis means "exempt from public service.")Some commentators recommend determining the appropriate preposition based on the relationship between the affecting thing and the object being affected. As Bryan Garner explains in Modern American Usage, "What youre immune from cant touch you; what youre immune to may touch you, but it has no effect."So if you are immune from prosecution, the prosecutor cannot go after you; if you are immune to a suitor's charms, the suitor can keep wooing you, but it would be to no avail. A person immune from criticism cannot be criticized; a person immune to criticism can be criticized but doesn't let the criticism bother them.Actual usage tends to be somewhat murkier, particularly when the affecting thing is expressed in abstract or figurative language: William Klusener, _The Morning Sun _(Pittsburg, Kansas), 9 Nov. 2011 National Review, 2 Sept. 2013And yet, because they admit to being partial inventions, these films evade charges of distortion and falsification, and areany legal consequences that might follow. Sean Wilentz, The New Republic, 1 Feb. 1993 George Bernard Shaw, The Doctor's Dilemma, 1906Since the very nature of the word implies a kind of separation or distancingeither from disease or troubleit's understandable that from is sometimes preferred. Are there other options? Once in a while we run into the occasional immune against, but this is rare: Jared Diamond, Guns, Germs, and Steel, 1997We hope we've helped bolster your immunity to this problem. (Regardless, our best advice is to avoid the need to be immune from prosecution in the first place.)_________________ War on Terror: Unfolding Bible Prophecy Were sorry but you missed this offer. It is no longer free or a deal. Grant R. JeffreyWaterbrook Press$1.99(Ends Oct 14) The World Changed Forever on September 11, 2001 Best-selling author Grant R. Jeffrey explores the motives and plans of the Islamic terrorists that declared war on America. War on Terror examines the truth behind the headlines about this vital struggle that affects all of us. Learn how the American-led alliance will use our powerful intelligence and military forces to destroy the thousands of terrorists as well as the governments of Iraq, Sudan, and Yemen that support terrorism. Key features include: Compelling evidence Iraq is behind Bin Ladens attacks on America The war on terror against Iraq was prophesied by Jeremiah 2500 years ago The nations that support Islamic terror Why Islamic terrorists hate America, Israel, and Arab governments How America will defeat the global threat from Islamic terrorists The Talibanthe Pashtun tribe and the Ten Lost Tribes Terror attacks on IsraelAmericas key strategic ally in the Middle East Russias Strategic Goalto turn the coalition against Israel New surveillance and counter-terrorism technology and world government The need for security versus our privacy and freedom New York State Department of Health Warns of Potential Measles Exposures in New Jerseys Newark Liberty International Airport and Rockland County International Traveler with a Confirmed Case of Measles Arrived at Newark Liberty International Airport and Visited Multiple Rockland County Locations ALBANY, N.Y. (October 3, 2018) - The New York State Department of Health today announced that an international traveler from Israel who has been confirmed to have measles flew through Newark Liberty International Airport on September 28, 2018 and visited multiple venues in Rockland County, potentially exposing others to measles from September 28 to October 1. The Department is working closely with the New Jersey Department of Health to identify people who may have been exposed at Newark Liberty International Airport. The traveler arrived in Terminal B and may have traveled to other areas of the airport. Anyone who was in the airport on September 28 between 5:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. may have been exposed to measles, and if infected could develop symptoms as late as October 19. Anyone who visited the following locations in New Square, NY in Rockland County may have been exposed to measles: Bais Medrash of New Square, 11 Truman Ave, New Square Friday, 9/28, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, 9/29 between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday, 9/30 between 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Sunday, 9/30 between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Sukkah adjacent to Avir Yakov Boys' School, 766 N. Main St, New Square Friday, 9/28 between noon and 4 p.m. Saturday, 9/29 between 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Refuah Health Center,728 N. Main St, New Square Saturday, 9/29 between 11:30 p.m. and 2 a.m. Monday, 10/1 between 12:30 p.m. and 3:30p.m. These times reflect the period that the infected individual was in these areas and a two-hour period after the individual left the area, as the virus remains alive in air and on surfaces for up to two hours. Individuals are considered protected or immune to measles if they were born before 1957, have received two doses of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine, have had measles disease, or have a lab test confirming immunity. Individuals who are not immune to measles and were exposed are at risk for developing measles. All individuals who were exposed to measles, particularly those without immunity or who are not sure if they have been vaccinated, should contact their health care provider if they develop measles symptoms. Symptoms include a fever, rash, cough, conjunctivitis or runny nose. Symptoms usually appear 10-12 days after exposure but may appear as early as 7 days and as late as 21 days after exposure. To prevent the spread of illness, the Department is advising individuals who may have been exposed and who have symptoms consistent with measles to contact their health care provider, a local clinic, or a local emergency department before going for care. This will help to prevent others at these facilities from being exposed to the illness. Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus that is spread by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected people. People first develop a fever, then may have a cough, runny nose and watery eyes, followed by appearance of a rash. People are considered infectious from four days before to four days after the appearance of the rash. The single best way to prevent measles is to be vaccinated. Individuals should receive two doses of MMR vaccine to be fully protected. If a person is unsure if they are immune they should contact their healthcare provider. Typically, the first dose of MMR vaccine should be given at 12-15 months of age and the second dose should be given at four to six years of age (age of school entry), although individuals may also be vaccinated later in life. In New York State, measles immunization is required of children enrolled in schools, daycare, and pre-kindergarten. Since August 1990, college students have also been required to demonstrate immunity against measles. The state Department of Health will issue a health advisory to health care providers to notify them of the potential exposure. Health care providers should report all suspected cases of measles to their local health department. More information about measles can be found at https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2170.pdf. Italy surrendered to the Allies in World War II. That historic world event took place in 1943 . . . 75 years ago . . . and that happens to be the last time total fluid milk sales in the U.S. were under 48.6 billion pounds of milk. Were getting close to that mark again, though. USDAs Economic Research Service (ERS) reported that total fluid milk sales in 2017 were 48.629 billion pounds, compared to 47.8 billion pounds in 1943. However, there is one big difference in those two data points population. In 1943, there were 137 million people in the U.S., leading to 371 pounds or 43.1 gallons of milk drank by every American. These days, fluid milk consumption has plummeted to 149 pounds or 17.3 gallons per person. Modern-day data From 1975 to 2015, total U.S. fluid milk sales have ranged from 53.309 billion pounds (1975) to 50.038 billion pounds (2015). The high watermark came in 2000 when dairy farmers and fluid milk processors sold 55.531 billion pounds, reported ERS. Its only been the two most recent years 2016 and 2017 that sales dropped below the 50 billion-pound threshold. To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com. (c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2018 September 17, 2018 IceViking strongly condemns physical attacks and harassment directed towards them. They are also often victims of the Islamic idea. This is true when it comes to the cruel and tragic treatment of Muslim women and children when it is in accord with the Koran, the example of Mohammed and Islamic law, Sharia, which may be applied regardless of where a Muslim male may find himself in the world, whether in a Muslim or non-Muslim country. However, in no way, shape or form should one judge all Muslim men because of what is in Islamic scripture and what constitutes the Islamic law, Sharia. "Race", ethnicity or basically anything that you are "merely" born with should never be a basis for bigotry and discrimination. Apostates from Islam have been executed for 1400 years in accord with the Koran and the words and actions of the Islamic prophet Mohammed and Islamic law, Sharia. They should be lovingly helped. Furthermore, approximately as many as 11,000,000 Muslims may have been killed by other Muslims since 1948. To quote the website The Religion of Peace (TROP), edited by Glen Roberts: While it may be safe to say that a true Muslim would not intentionally kill another true Muslim ( 4:92-93 ), the Quran places no such value on the life of a Muslim who is not true. Consider verse 9:73 : Strive hard against the disbelievers and the hypocrites, and be harsh against them, their abode is Hell. The Arabic for strive hard uses the same root as Jihad - and the context in this sura is holy war (see v. 86 and 91). Thus, there are two distinct classes of people that a true Muslim is to target with harshness: disbelievers and hypocrites. A disbeliever obviously refers to a non-Muslim, so a "hypocrite" must be a Muslim of some sort. In fact, hypocrites are those who say they believe, but do not act as they should. In other words, they are "Muslims", but not true Muslims. They will go to hell just as unbelievers do, and so, according to the verse, their lives matter for naught. The same sura says that a hypocrite can be recognized not just by lack of piety (reluctance to follow Sharia), but by fear of death ( 9:56 ), reluctance to fight ( 9:44-45 ) and even friendliness toward non-believers ( 9:67 ). A true Muslim would thus be a pious person who relishes martyrdom, is eager to fight, and shuns non-believers. Even the Quranic passage that warns against killing "believers" ( 4:88-94 ) is more complicated than it first appears. It never says that a true Muslim is incapable of killing another Muslim, just that it should not be done. In fact, it makes exceptions for the unintentional killing of "believers" in war and mandates the killing of "hypocrites." Verse 17:33 says, "Do not kill anyone which Allah has forbidden, except for a just cause" . The greatest cause of all is that Islam be superior ( 9:33 ), which is exactly what Islamic terrorists say is their goal. Thus believing Muslims are allowed to be collateral damage in the war on unbelievers. There is sadly a phenomena that I`ve noticed in Sweden and elsewhere of people using true facts about Islamic doctrine and history as a cover for all sorts of irrational targeting of Muslims, ranging from xenophobia and racism to verbal abuse and physical attacks. This is strongly condemned by this website and does not in any way serve serious criticism of orthodox Islam and other important work. It`s also important that one tries to express oneself in a civilized way. Words matter. In this bloggers humble opinion the root cause of the problem is the ancient doctrine of orthodox Islam. In simple terms a non-Muslim is a Kafir. " The Koran defines the kafir and kafir is not a neutral word. A kafir is not merely someone who does not agree with Islam, but a kafir is evil, disgusting, the lowest form of life." An exact quote, as stated in the writings of Dr. Bill Warner in the article "Kafir" at http://www.politicalislam.com/kafir . In the perfect Koran (Allah`s direct and literal word as revealed to Mohammed through the angel Jibril), Muslims are told 89 times to emulate Mohammed in all ways (see Koran 33:21 for instance). Mohammed`s example, the Sunna, is found in the Hadith (stories of what Mohammed said and did) and the Sira (biographies of Mohammed). Islamic law, Sharia , is directly derived from these unchanging scriptures. It is based on the Koran`s numerous commands to obey Allah and obey the Messenger, that is Mohammed (see Koran 4:59 for instance). Islam is Sharia. Sharia is Islam. It is a capital crime for Muslims to deny Sharia in any way. A Muslim is someone who submits to Islam and submitting to Islam means obeying the Sharia of Allah. Sharia law includes pronouncements for both Muslims and non-Muslims (Kafirs). Islam is a "complete way of life", a "complete code of life", a "complete system of life". Islam is not just a religion but also a comprehensive ideology. Islam is a supremacist ideology. Islam is a totalitarian and imperialistic ideology akin to Communism and Nazism. Islam is a civilization. Islamic law, Sharia, is a manual for a civilization. Islamic law, Sharia, governs every aspect of life. It has a say about every conceivable human act . Non-Muslims are morally and legally inferior in Islam. Women are morally and legally inferior in Islam. The History of Jihad: From Muhammad to ISIS by Robert Spencer is the first one-volume history of jihad in the English language and a great book on the topic. Allah guarantees Paradise to those who "kill and are killed" for him (Koran 9:111). A hadith depicts a Muslim asking Muhammad: "Instruct me as to such a deed as equals Jihad (in reward)." Muhammad replied, "I do not find such a deed." (Bukhari 4.52.44) Muhammad himself said: I have been commanded to fight against people so long as they do not declare that there is no god but Allah, and he who professed it was guaranteed the protection of his property and life on my behalf except for the right affairs rest with Allah. (Sahih Muslim 30) Freedom of speech, human rights, democracy, science and human lives are all at stake in the fight against the Islamic Jihad. As of August 26th, 2021 Yahoo India will no longer be publishing content. Your Yahoo Account Mail and Search experiences will not be affected in any way and will operate as usual. We thank you for your support and readership. For more information on Yahoo India, please visit the FAQ Officials have finally released results for the states standardized test, the ISTEP, after grading issues postponed their publication last month. The results, approved by the State Board of Education at its October meeting, show little to no improvement in English Language Arts (ELA) compared to last year, with more significant decreases in passing rates in science and social studies. About the same percentage of students in grades 3 through 8 passed the math and ELA sections of ISTEP, at 50.7 percent. Hoosier 10th graders also maintained a similar passing rate in the same subjects compared to last year at 33.7 percent. Despite the similar rates, data shows ISTEP scores overall have declined by a fraction of a percent each year over the past three years. In 2015 around 53 percent of students passed the math and ELA portions of the exam. Superintendent of Public Instruction Jennifer McCormick says overall, shes not too upset by the results. Given that we changed the mode of testing I was very pleased with where we are because any time you ask a school to change from paper pencil to computer and some are going back and forth it does impact things, McCormick says. Passing rates did improve by around two percent for Indianas eighth graders in ELA, and third graders in math. But in social studies and science, the rate of students passing declined by about 5 percent each. Officials at the Indiana Department of Education say it isnt clear why passing rates in science and social studies saw such a significant decrease compared to last year. Statewide, Brownsburg Community Schools had the highest passing percentage of third through eighth graders in math and ELA at 83 percent. The state moves to a new standardized exam, the ILEARN this spring, but 10th graders will continue taking the ISTEP for end of course exams until 2022. To see your school corporations scores use our interactive search tool. More on a new city salary ordinance, Exhibit Columbus wraps up this year's symposium, concerns are growing over a homeless shelter and the city hires a project manager to oversee the purchase of a vacant mall. On this weeks installment of Ask The Mayor, Columbus Mayor Jim Lienhoop addresses these issues and more. Listen to the full conversation with Indiana Newsdesk anchor Joe Hren by clicking on the play button above, or read some of the questions and answers below. A portion of this segment airs 6:45 and 8:45 a.m. Wednesday on WFIU. This conversation has been edited for clarity and conciseness. Hren: Weve talked about city pay scales since you were first elected and some of this is coming to fruition with a salary ordinance, as the budget is being prepared for next year, do you see this taking affect this upcoming budget cycle? Lienhoop: The salary ordinance was passed at the last two city council meetings, so if it's funded at the next two, then it will take effect the first of January. Usually we move forward with some cost of living adjustment, and we've fallen out of tune with the market. We find we lose police officers and fire fighters to other departments because compensation arrangement is better elsewhere. The last thing we want to do is become a training ground for another agency. It's become increasingly difficult to find capable people to do difficult jobs. What we're going to go to is a salary that has a midpoint which is based on market value which our consultant has provided to us. We still have to provide and minimum and maximum so we take 20 percent off and add 20 percent to that midpoint. Our target is to get our employees to the midpoint in two or three period. So over time we migrate the compensation arrangements to something that is more market driven and allow department heads to compensate employees based upon performance. Late to last year, the county passed a local income tax increase. Part of what we're going to do is use that money to pay for the salary increases. IKDs design for Conversation Plinth, Exhibit Columbus 2017 (Joe Hren, WFIU/WTIU News) Hren: The national symposium for Exhibit Columbus just wrapped up this weekend, I know city organizers were expecting more than a thousand visitors. Any early indications of how it went? Lienhoop: It's a two year program and this is the odd year. This is designed for the professionals and allows them to think a bit about design type activities. So it's not geared toward the residents or layman when it comes to these issues. So the attendance isn't like the even years, but we're pretty excited to have these people in town. So they introduced to us the Miller prize winners, there are five and most of the sites. The winners will be back to Columbus four to six times over the next year and we hope to have an unveiling about this time next year. Hren: Last time we talked about the city's proposed purchase of Fair Oaks Mall and turning into an indoor sport complex. I see the latest update is that the city hiring a consultant? Lienhoop: It takes us awhile, we're pretty thorough and there are a number of different boards and agencies who privilege you have to receive before moving forward. Plus we're partering with Columbus Regional Health, whatever decision you make have to work for both. So we hired a project manager to help sort through some of the legal issues in terms of keeping things moving. We've begun to hear from tennants who might be interested in lease extentions. There'll be an environmental analysis, a structural analysis of the buidling. Everybody in city government had a full time job before we bought the mall, so they really didn't need a mall to try and manage. So it's a temporary position. Fair Oaks Mall in Columbus (Joe Hren, WFIU/WTIU News) Hren: I see there are some Town Halls scheduled to discuss some of the complaints serving the homeless. This is about Brighter Days Housing is this something the city is looking into? Lienhoop: It's located in east Columbus in primarily a commercial district. Some nearby have complained about an increase in certain kinds of undesirable activity. It may be loitering, litering - we're talking needles and other activities you just don't want to see. So part of what the city is trying to do is understand the problem. We want to make sure we react appropriately. I think what we need to understand is that there's a communication between the people that run the shelter and the folks in the neighborhood. I hate to phrase it this way, but it's not the city's shelter. It belongs to the Columbus Township Trustee and it's managed by Love Chapel that is a social service agency. But we're going to try to do whatever we can do to help facilitate that. An Indiana school corporation that gives some of its staff access to guns is getting a $500,000 loan from the Common School Fund to make other safety improvements. That's the maximum amount school corporations can request. Legislators set aside $35 million as part of a new school safety loan program earlier this year. The Indiana State Board of Education approved Jay School Corporations request for a $500,000 loan at its meeting Tuesday. The district plans to use the money to make improvements that will restrict access to buildings and give them direct communication with first responders. Superintendent Jeremy Gulley says theyll also install additional cameras in schools. "The cameras will be accessible by police so they can see whats going on and get real-time intelligence in case there was an event," Gulley says. The measures are aimed at providing more information in the critical minutes following a safety threat or incident. Another part of the districts safety plan that its funding with its own dollars includes giving some staff members who volunteered access to guns. The school board still has to approve the list of volunteers. Gulley is lobbying legislators to change the law that dictates how districts can spend the loan money. He says schools should be able to use it to train and arm staff as necessary. "We do hope that the legislation will be changed to allow schools the ability to use these safety grant dollars that are available to schools to meet the local needs," he says. Only a small number of schools have requested school safety loans since the state made them available. Governor Eric Holcomb joined city leaders from across the state to talk about infrastructure and connectivity in the Hoosier state. Holcombs appearance took place at the French Lick Springs hotel during a convention of mayors and city officials that are part of the organization Accelerating Indianas Municipalities. Holcomb spoke about bringing in new industry to Indiana towns to ensure the future economic vitality of the state. "We have to make sure that we have safe streets and good schools, all the basics," Holcomb says. "But then in addition to that people are looking for cool places to live, we know that population scarcity is one of the biggest threats that we face as a state." Holcomb also talked about recent investments in rural internet connectivity and international outreach through facility improvement at the Indianapolis Airport. Both investments are part of the $1 billion Next Level Initiative that Holcomb announced this summer. Indiana Universitys School of Global and International Studies will now be named after two Indianas longest serving public servants. IU President Michael McRobbie announced Wednesday the school will now be called the Lee H. Hamilton and Richard G. Lugar School of Global International Studies, in honor of the former Congressman and former Senator. IU says the two demonstrate the importance of pragmatic, nonpartisan solutions to the worlds problems. Hamilton says hes thrilled to have his name associated with the school, which he says plays an important role in shaping the future. "Now these challenges come at us with great rapidity and complexity," Hamilton says. "And knowing that this school is going to meet with those challenges in the best possible way." Lugar stressed the importance of Americas ongoing role to provide equality of opportunity and individual liberty to places around the globe. The announcement also kicks off a $25 million fundraising campaign to establish a scholarship program and endowed faculty positions at the school. Indiana University Bloomington is searching for a new police chief. IU is promoting current Chief Laury Flint to a new, university-wide position. Shell serve as the threat assessment and engagement director for all of IUs campuses. Superintendent for Public Safety Benjamin Hunter says Flint will work with student affairs to ensure the university is providing the right resources to students. "We know that students, young people come with issues to college campuses," Hunter says. "Weve seen that, weve seen how that can turn tragic across the nation. So, we just want to be ahead of that." Flint will also co-chair the committee thats searching for her replacement. Hunter says shell stay on as chief until someone new is hired for the position. "We dont look for a new chief to be in that office probably until late January, early February," Hunter says. Flint started her career as a student in the IU Police Academy in 1980. A panel of lawmakers wants to give Department of Child Services case workers more time to begin and complete investigations into child abuse. A study committee examining the embattled agency made its unanimous recommendation Wednesday. Current law requires DCS workers to complete investigations within 30 days. DCS wants that to be 45. Chief Justice Loretta Rush says that could complicate court deadlines but DCS Associate Director Todd Meyer says the change could improve workflow with the courts. Were not oftentimes able to get the reports in anyway at the 30-day juncture, which is why were looking to want to extend it, Meyer says. Another change would allow case workers up to four hours to begin an investigation if a child is in imminent danger. Current law puts it at one hour. Sen. Erin Houchin (R-Salem) says she thinks its better if the law doesnt include an exact time. To not put that time frame in statute but to put it in your policies I just think that might give you more flexibility in how you run your department, Houchin says. Legislators say the exact time will be a key point of debate this coming session. Given that this oil-rich region was autonomous until it was annexed by the Shah in the 1920s, it is no surprise that separatists would want to fight for independence and why Shiite Arabs would want to fight back against the Iranian Regime and their proxies. The Iranian Regime has long repressed the rights of its Kurdish minority at home and abroad. Theyve assassinated Kurdish leaders abroad (i.e. the Mykonos restaurant in Berlin in 1992), bombed their headquarters in Iraq in September this year, and imprisoned Kurdish activists in Iran. And, of course, the Regime also abuses many other minorities, from the Baluch of southeastern Iran to the Arabs of the southeast, to the Turkish-speaking Azeris. Of course, the Iranian Regime has a long list of enemies, so it shouldnt be surprising that Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif blamed Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the US for inciting the attack at first. All three countries have denied this, but it shows just how fearful the Regime is of its domestic opposition that it must blame large countries with big militaries for these attacks, rather than the Iranian people who are fed up with regime rule. The Khuzestani Arabs have been subjected to decades of oppression by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, who is the force most likely to deal with minorities, and needed no foreign incentive or help to attack the Regimes primary security force. If the other Gulf countries wanted to band together to tackle the Iranian Regime perhaps even in the Arab NATO proposed by Donald Trump they would do best to support the Iranian peoples uprising, which has caused chaos in Iran since it began last December. This paralysed the Regime, even though they reacted with violence and suppression, and meant they were unable to quell the protesters. With support from such formidable countries, the Iranian people could bring the Regime to its knees before a nuclear bomb could be built. Money, intelligence, and weaponry from countries with far bigger military budgets would help the Iranian people take their rightful place as the true rulers of Iran. Indeed, the US has already offered support to the Iranian people, although it could go the whole hog and support the democratic Iranian Resistance forces and the overthrow of the Regime. So, why could the Gulf countries not do the same? This forced the Iranian Regime to double down on the attack and claim that they had definitely meant to drop the motor of a rocket onto a field in Kurdish territory, providing a shoddy computer animation of the so-called planned exercise, in an attempt to cover up this humiliating failure. Irans semi-official media claimed to the sceptical Iranian public and the international community that the explosion at the launch site wasnt a mistake or the failure of the rockets, but essentially rocket boosters landing as normal. While the missile blast in Kermanshah, where the countrys Kurdish minority lives, thankfully killed no one, it destroyed a farm, which could well be the livelihood of a family and the food source of a community, and displayed that Irans missile programme is far too dangerous to be used. The missile failure and the Iranian Regimes lies The failed missile attack was first reported on Twitter by the Democratic Party of Kurdistan, shortly after the Iranian Regime showed the launch on TV and announced that they were heading to Albu Kamal, Syria, which meant that the rockets should have gone all the way across Iraq. The Iranian Regime responded with a video that they released via the semi-official Fars News agency, which contained an animation of a fictional missile flight path and a rocket booster landing peacefully in a field. The problem is that Irans shorter-range ballistic missiles actually need to take their boosters with them almost to the very end of their flight path in order to maintain trajectory. While yes, ballistic missiles have rocket boosters called stages that do fall off in flight as the warhead separates from the missile and heads down to hit its target, this does not happen upon launch or when the missile still has to traverse a whole country. The stages that do fall off, often have parachutes to slow their fall because they still hold some fuel in some stage of combustion, which this missile did not. As Alex Lockie wrote on Business Insider: For obvious reasons, its entirely undesirable to have a burning rocket motor smash into the ground of an unsuspecting farm. For this reason, Irans excuse doesnt make much sense. Even if the farm was only hit with a flaming rocket booster, it was still an innocent farm slammed by a burning rocket booster. On that day, a husband and wife, both Belgian nationals of Iranian origin, were caught carrying half a kilogram of explosives and a detonator. They were arrested by the Belgian police, who determined that the explosives were meant to be used against the Iranian Opposition at the NCRIs rally. Later, another man was arrested as an accomplice in Paris, where the alleged bombing was planned to take place. An Iranian diplomat based in Austria, Assadollah Assadi, was meanwhile arrested by police in Germany. He stands accused of handing the bomb to the attackers who targeted Iranian opposition and its supporters. Although Assadi was based in Austria, and arrested in Germany, it has now been decided that he will be extradited to Belgium. His diplomatic immunity will not apply, since he was arrested while on holiday, according to the German courts ruling. The wanted man cannot cite diplomatic immunity because he was on a several day holiday trip outside his host state Austria, and not traveling between his host country and the state that dispatched him, it said. Denying any involvement in the plot, Iran insists that it was designed to mislead the public and harm Irans international standing. However, German prosecutors allege that Assadi is an Iranian intelligence agent who ordered the attack and gave the explosives to the Belgian couple in Luxembourg. After his arrest by the German police, Austria quickly moved to strip Assadi of his diplomatic status. And, while France was the intended target, the explosives were discovered by the Belgian police, and Belgium requested the extradition of any remaining suspects not already in custody. Assadi is now facing extradition to Belgium. Tehran continues to accuse the NCRI of engineering the entire plot. But, Rudy Guiliani, US President Trumps attorney, who was attending the rally, said at the time, This accentuates the growing sense that the regime that is the biggest sponsor of terrorism in the world is increasingly weakened by constant large demonstrations in over 140 cities. He added, It is also becoming apparent that Madam Maryam Rajavi and the NCRI pose a realistic alternative to this homicidal regime. Nothing could be worse for these misogynists than a movement seen as replacing them headed by a heroic woman. Compton Man Charged with Capital Murder of Stepfather and Stepsister A Compton man was charged today with killing his 65-year-old stepfather and his 13-year-old stepsister, the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office announced. Jaime Jajuan Williams (dob 8/5/75) of Compton faces two counts of murder with a special circumstance allegation of multiple murders and one count of attempted murder. Case TA147171 includes allegations of use of a handgun and causing great bodily injury. ADVERTISEMENT Williams pleaded not guilty to the charges and is scheduled to return on Oct. 24 in Department D of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Compton Branch. On Sept. 29, the defendant allegedly shot his stepfather, Eddie Charges Talley Jr., his stepsister, Brittany M., and her mother, prosecutors said. Talley Jr. and Brittany M. died as a result of the shooting, prosecutors added. Williams is being held without bail. He faces the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole if convicted as charged. A decision on whether to seek the death penalty will be made at a later date. The case remains under investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. Pasadena Man Charged with Sexually Assaulting Five Women A 51-year-old Pasadena man has been charged with sexually assaulting five women, the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office announced. Anthony Joseph Miller (dob 10/10/66) faces five counts of forcible rape, two counts each of forcible oral copulation, sodomy by use of force and dissuading a witness from reporting a crime and one count each of sexual battery by restraint and false imprisonment by violence. Miller pleaded not guilty to the charges yesterday and is scheduled to return on Oct. 24 in Department J of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Pasadena Branch. Case GA104352 was filed for warrant on Sept. 26. ADVERTISEMENT The defendant is accused of sexually assaulting one woman in 2011 and the remaining four victims in August and September of this year, prosecutors said. If convicted as charged, Miller faces more than 270 years to life in state prison. Bail is set at more than $10 million. The case remains under investigation by the Pasadena Police Department. Two men and a woman have won the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physics for their inventions in the field of laser physics. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences says half of the $1 million prize will go to Arthur Ashkin of the United States. The other half will be shared by Gerard Mourou of France and Donna Strickland of Canada. The Swedish academy said their discoveries made possible tools made of light that improve scientific research, industry and medicine. These devices are opening unexplored areas of research and a multitude of industrial and medical applications, it said. New tools for science and industry Mourou and Strickland are being recognized for their work on high-intensity lasers. The Swedish academy praised them for developing a way to increase the power and usefulness of lasers. A laser is a device that produces an intense beam of light. In a report published in 1985, Strickland proposed stretching and then compressing laser light. She and Mourou found a way to produce a powerful laser pulse that lasts an almost unimaginably short period of time. Their technique puts more light in the same tiny space, greatly increasing its intensity. Their discoveries led to very precise, powerful lasers that can cut holes in different materials, including living tissue. Such lasers are now used in corrective eye operations. Millions of these operations have been performed on people around the world. Strickland is only the third woman to ever win the Nobel physics prize. The first was Marie Curie of France in 1903. Strickland spoke briefly about the lack of women physics winners in a telephone call with the academy. Obviously we need to celebrate women physicists because were out there. And hopefully, in time, itll start to move forward at a faster rate, maybe, she said. Mourou said, I am very, very happy to share this distinction with my former student Donna Strickland and also to share it with Art Ashkin, for whom I have a lot of respect. The American scientist will receive half of the prize money for what the academy called optical tweezers. Ashkin discovered that the radiation pressure from a beam of light could be used to move extremely small objects and hold them in position. In 1987, he used a laser to seize and hold bacteria without harming them. His discovery made possible new ways to study microscopic biology and other objects. At the age of 96, Ashkin is the oldest person to ever receive a Nobel Prize. The Nobel Prize in Physics will be officially presented at ceremonies in Stockholm, Sweden on December 10. The first physics prize was given in 1901 by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. Im Mario Ritter. Mario Ritter adapted this story for VOA Learning English. His story was based on reports from VOANews.com, the Associated Press, Reuters and the Nobel Prize website. George Grow was the editor. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story beam n. a line of light coming from a source multitude n. a great number of things application n. the use of an idea, method or law in a situation or for a purpose compress v. to press or squeeze something so that is fills less space pulse n. a short increase in an amount of electricity, light or sound obviously adv. easy to see, understand or recognize distinction n. a special honor, recognition or award precise adj. exact We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page. Two Americans and one Briton have won the 2018 Nobel Prize for Chemistry for developing new processes used to create drugs, chemicals and biofuels. Frances Arnold of the California Institute of Technology will receive half the prize, worth about $1 million. The other half will be shared by George Smith of the University of Missouri and Gregory Winter of the MRC Molecular Biology Laboratory in Cambridge, England. Academy: directed evolution The Swedish Royal Academy of Sciences said Arnold used the processes of natural selection to create enzymes. Enzymes are complex proteins that make many chemical reactions possible. The academy described the process as being similar to biological evolution. It said the Nobel winners applied the power of evolution and used the same principles genetic change and selection to develop proteins that solve mankinds chemical problems. Arnold first tested her method of what has been called directed evolution in 1993. Others now commonly use it to create new enzymes. These enzymes can be used in chemical processes that produce medicines. They also can be used to help create chemicals that are safe for the environment and to make biofuels. New biological proteins The other half of this years Nobel Prize for Chemistry will be shared by George Smith and Gregory Winter. Smith developed a method to make new biological proteins in 1985. Smiths method is known as phage display. In this process, viruses that can infect bacteria, known as bacteriophages, are used to produce new proteins that are not believed to exist in nature. Winter used Smiths phage display method to create new kinds of antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that help fight infection in the body. Winters aim was to use phage display to make new medicines. The first medicine based on Smiths and Winters methods, adalimumab, also known as Humira, was approved by drug officials in 2002. It is a popular way to treat rheumatoid arthritis, some skin diseases and inflammatory bowel diseases. The drug is also costly, creating billions of dollars in sales around the world. The academy says, in recent years, the phage display method has created antibodies able to do a wide number of health-related tasks. Newly created antibodies can make some poisonous substances safe, fight autoimmune diseases and even cure some forms of cancer. After learning that he had won the Nobel Prize, Smith spoke to the Associated Press. The 77-year-old chemist said his discoveries could not have been made without the earlier work of many others. Very few research breakthroughs are novel. Virtually all of them build on what went on before, he said. Arnold, who is 62 years old, joins four other women who have won the Nobel Prize for Chemistry. She spoke to Reuters after hearing that she had won the Nobel Prize. Some people breed cats and dogs, she said, I breed molecules. The Nobel Prize for Chemistry is one of the five prizes first given in 1901. They were the wish of Swedish industrialist Alfred Nobel, who established the organization that provides money for the prizes. The awards honor discoveries that have provided the greatest benefit to mankind. Im Mario Ritter. Mario Ritter adapted this story for VOA Learning English from VOA News, AP, Reuters and the Nobel site. Kelly Jean Kelly was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story selection n. the process of choosing principles n. a basic truth or theory, and idea that forms the basis of something phage (bacteriophage)n. a virus that infects and reproduces within bacteria autoimmune adj. related to a situation in which tissue is attacked by the bodys own immune system novel adj. new, different from what has been known before virtually adv. almost entirely breed v. to keep and take care of animals or plants in order to produce more with similar qualities benefit n. a good or helpful effect One year has passed since Hurricane Maria struck the United States territory of Puerto Rico. But even before the storm hit, education officials had begun closing schools on Puerto Rico to save money. Last year, the territorys government sought legal protection from creditors because it owed billions of dollars in debts that could not be paid. In the weeks and months after Hurricane Maria, the number of students on the island dropped as conditions worsened. Thousands of Puerto Rican families fled to the U.S. mainland. Many students ended up attending schools in Florida or other states along the East Coast. At the time, education officials reported that about half of Puerto Ricos schools had lower than normal student attendance rates. Only about 60 percent of classroom seats were filled. The government ended up closing nearly 300 schools. Education officials said the move was necessary to meet budget targets. But the closures created problems for Puerto Rican students and their parents when the new school year started a few weeks ago. With many schools closed, some students had to travel outside their neighborhood to attend school. Their parents often were required to find transportation to and from the school. The children also had new teachers and classmates to get used to. Ana Maria Garcia Blanco is the director of Instituto Nueva Escuela, a non-profit group that works with schools all over Puerto Rico. She says parents have expressed concern that so many changes could harm the overall quality of students education. Parents are very concerned about overcrowded classrooms, and losing the experience they had before - where their children had more personal attention, and smaller classrooms and more attention from the teacher. Garcia Blanco said another parental concern she heard is that even more schools would be closed in the future in an effort to cut costs. Those that had good schools are concerned about losing them, she said. Recently, the Youth Development Institute of Puerto Rico reported on how education was influenced by Hurricane Maria. The report was based on information collected from more than 500 Puerto Rican students aged 5-17. Nearly 80 percent of the students reported attending public school. The study found that on average, students had missed 78 days during the 2017-2018 school year. In addition, teachers reported observing different or unusual behaviors in 23 percent of students after the hurricane hit. About 12 percent of students had problems concentrating, while about 10 percent had lower levels of academic performance. About eight percent showed a lack of interest in studying, while nearly six percent were observed to have other behavior issues. Garcia Blanco says even some of the students who fled to the U.S. mainland after Hurricane Maria experienced problems. A big issue in some areas was a lack of bilingual education for Puerto Rican students, who are used to speaking Spanish in class. Although many of our children could handle English as a Second Language - or as a subject matter in the school program - they did not have the language skills to survive an English-only school in the states. In many cases, she says, Puerto Rican children were put in classes with students of lower grade levels because of their English skills alone. For example, a child that had finished the fifth grade here in school, they would put him or her in the fourth or third grade. So parents were very concerned with the self-esteem and the life of that child in schooling. At least 150,000 Puerto Ricans have fled the island since Hurricane Maria, the Center for Puerto Rican Studies reports. The center is part of Hunter College in New York State. The centers director said the large number shows the level of frustration people have with the governments overall response. Garcia Blanco says many Puerto Ricans have become deeply concerned that government decisions related to education were made without their input. They dont feel they have been part of any of the decisions, she said. And they are worried that they wont have anything to say and things will keep happening. Im Bryan Lynn. Bryan Lynn reported this story for VOA Learning English. George Grow was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page. Quiz - Puerto Rico Students Still Suffer Effects of Hurricane Maria Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story concentrate v. think carefully about a specific subject bilingual adj. using or able to speak two languages self-esteem n. confidence in yourself and a belief in your qualities and abilities frustration n. feeling of being annoyed because things are not happening in the way that you want input n. ideas or effort put into an activity or process in order to help it succeed response n. something that is done as a reaction to something else Please enable cookies on your web browser in order to continue. The new European data protection law requires us to inform you of the following before you use our website: We use cookies and other technologies to customize your experience, perform analytics and deliver personalized advertising on our sites, apps and newsletters and across the Internet based on your interests. By clicking I agree below, you consent to the use by us and our third-party partners of cookies and data gathered from your use of our platforms. See our Privacy Policy and Third Party Partners to learn more about the use of data and your rights. You also agree to our Terms of Service. A group of scientists at Johns Hopkins has proposed a new study to understand the similaritiesif any existbetween brain cells and robots in an autonomous swarm. "This is a very exciting new project from the perspective of a theorist and computational neuroscientist," said Kechen Zhang, associate professor at the School of Medicine and the study's principal investigator. "We propose that individual robots in a group can be thought of as neurons in an animal's brain. They interact with one another to form dynamic patterns that collectively signal locations in space and time, much in the same way brain rhythms do." The scientists, from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Applied Physics Laboratory, will combine research into navigational planning in brains with autonomous robotic swarms to drive advances in both fields. The study will use new information and discoveries about how the brain allows an animal to navigate and change its routes while movingcalled dynamic replanningto improve swarming algorithms to the point that groups of robots will automatically adapt to changes in the environment in the same way that a rat knows which detour to take around an unexpected obstacle. In turn, the neuroscientists will examine the replanning behaviors of drone swarms to evaluate their models of how the rodent brain dynamically replans paths, which will lead to new avenues for neuroscience research. Zhang will work with a multidisciplinary team of co-principal investigators from APL, including applied mathematician Kevin Schultz, neuroscientist Grace Hwang, robotics researcher Robert Chalmers, and STEM program manager Dwight Carr. Joseph Monaco, a postdoctoral biomedical engineering fellow at the School of Medicine, is a theoretical modeler on the study. The project was one of 18 funded in September by the National Science Foundation to conduct innovative research on neural and cognitive systems. The study's genesis began in November 2017 at a poster session at the Society for Neuroscience conference in Washington, D.C., when APL's Hwang came upon a poster by Zhang and Monaco describing their work with a type of neuron they had discovered and named a "phaser cell." Found outside the hippocampus in a deep, centrally located region of the brain, these neurons are critical to how the brain maintains its sense of location during spatial navigation, Zhang and Monaco theorized. An animal's brain uses spike timing patterns in the electrical activity of these neurons (called phase) to determine its specific location in space. Hwang, a neuroscientist with an interest in brain-inspired robotics, noted that unlike other neurons used in spatial perception, phaser cells create a phase map of the environment that is absolute (oriented to fixed directions such as north and south), not relative (i.e., "on my left"). "That was the big 'a-ha' moment for me," said Hwang, "because both the phaser cells and some robotic control algorithms use phase to determine location. For the first time, I saw a way to create a cognitive map of the entire environment using phase." The next generation of robots will likely include autonomous swarming capabilitieslike the features of these swarming boatsto complete disaster relief and search and rescue missions. Credit: Johns Hopkins University Soon after that meeting, Hwangwho works in APL's Intelligent Systems Centerwas awarded APL internal research and development funding for an idea to develop brain-inspired small robots for GPS-denied areas. That proposal grew to include applied mathematicians Clare Lau and Kevin Schultz, and robotics researchers Robert Chalmers and Bryanna Yeh. "We have neuroscientists here in the Intelligent Systems Center who collaborate with artificial intelligence researchers and roboticists," said Chalmers. "And APL has an amazing hardware history in swarming vehicles. This is exactly the kind of cross-discipline collaboration the center is designed to encourage." Added Zhang: "I have been at Hopkins for over 15 years, and this is my first collaboration with APL at the intersection of neuroscience and robotics. I look forward to a fruitful collaboration at the interplay of neuroscience, engineering, and robotics that will find brain-inspired solutions to controlling distributed groups of robotic agents." In early 2018, the project was awarded expanded R&D funding; encouraging simulations produced by Hwang and Schultz from that study led Zhang and the APL team to submit their proposal, "Spatial Intelligence for Swarms Based on Hippocampal Dynamics," for an NSF grant. The key realization of the NSF proposal was the need to include an additional emergent phenomenon that occurs in the hippocampus, called sharp waves, that has been hypothesized to contribute to navigational planning in mammals. (Additionally, a new, related project led by Hwang has also received additional R&D funding from APL.) The project also includes development of "Swarming Powered by Neuroscience," a 16-hour micro-seminar for high school students that will be designed and operated by APL's STEM Office. Robot swarms will be used to teach students about neuroscience, and the content will eventually be transformed into a course at APL's STEM Academy. The team envisions that this new approach to navigation will enable the kinds of tasks that society will be increasingly asking robots to performdisaster relief and search and rescue, in addition to research and defense applications. These tasks require improved and more intelligent spatial coordination among many robots spread over large geographical areas. The team hopes that their research will create a revolutionary algorithmic framework for autonomous behaviors in swarming, as well as informing theoretical advances in understanding the brain. "What we hope to achieve is a more elegant way of expressing swarming behaviors," Chalmers said. Explore further The brain's GPS has a buddy system The researchers anti-integrin therapy using the approved medication vedolizumab (VDZ) reduced aggregates of immune cells (green) in intestinal biopsies from a patient with HIV and IBD. Credit: M. Uzzan et al., Science Translational Medicine (2018) In a study published today in Science Translational Medicine, Mount Sinai researchers describe for the first time a mechanism that may shrink collections of immune cells in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, called lymphoid aggregates, where HIV may lay sequestered. These findings may be of interest to scientists who are involved in researching the cure for HIV infection in light of the strong role that the intestines play in it. The study builds on research by the same team which found in 2004 that the intestines are specifically targeted by HIV at the earliest stage of infection. "We know from our earlier research that intestinal immune cells called CD4+ T cells are profoundly depleted during the earliest stages of HIV infection. Newer research from other groups has found that CD4 + T cells that migrate to the gut, and bear a receptor called a4b7, are highly susceptible to HIV," says Saurabh Mehandru, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine (Gastroenterology) at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the senior author on this study. Dr. Mehandru directs an immunology lab, part of the Division of Gastroenterology at the Icahn School of Medicine. The Mehandru Lab studies mucosal immunology as it pertains to immune deficiency states such as HIV infection and inflammatory disorders, with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) being a focal point. "Now, 14 years later, we have discovered how anti-a4b7 therapy can significantly, and rather unexpectedly, lead to the attenuation of lymphoid aggregates," continues Dr. Mehandru. This is the first report of reduction in GI-associated lymphoid aggregates by a therapeutic intervention in patients with HIV-1 infection. "As such, these data describe a new mechanism of action of treatments targeting the a4b7 receptor and define a rational basis for the use of these treatments in HIV-1 infection and beyond," says Dr. Mehandru. Study authors, led by Ph.D. student Mathieu Uzzan, designed a study that involved a cohort of six individuals with mild IBD and concomitant HIV-1 infection receiving anti-a4b7 treatment, specifically vedolizumab (VDZ). VDZ has become a frontline strategy in the management of patients with IBD, in whom it has demonstrated strong efficacy and an excellent safety profile. The investigators studied immune cells in the blood and the intestines and describe the immunological and virological effects of VDZ therapy over a 30-week period. "The therapy was tolerated well, with only minor adverse events reported. We were surprised by the impact of treatment on lymphoid aggregates in the GI tract of patients with HIV-1 infection. We believe these initial findings could have significant implications for HIV-1 infection, perhaps in combination with other agents such as broadly neutralizing anti-HIV antibodies," says Dr. Mehandru. Research was facilitated by scientists at the University of Hawaii, the Wistar Institute, the University of Montreal, and the University of Minnesota. Explore further Protein produced in gut could stave off deadly bone marrow transplant complication More information: M. Uzzan el al., "Anti-a47 therapy targets lymphoid aggregates in the gastrointestinal tract of HIV-1infected individuals," Science Translational Medicine (2018). Journal information: Science Translational Medicine M. Uzzan el al., "Anti-a47 therapy targets lymphoid aggregates in the gastrointestinal tract of HIV-1infected individuals,"(2018). stm.sciencemag.org/lookup/doi/ scitranslmed.aau4711 (HealthDay)Preventable cardiovascular events place a considerable health and economic burden on the United States, according to research published in the Sept. 7 issue of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Matthew D. Ritchey, D.P.T., from the CDC in Atlanta, and colleagues used Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project databases to identify emergency department visits and hospitalizations for nonfatal and fatal cardiovascular events. Deaths were identified using National Vital Statistics System data. The researchers found that in 2016, 2.2 million hospitalizations resulting in $32.7 billion in costs and 415,480 deaths occurred. Men and non-Hispanic blacks had the highest rates of hospitalization and mortality, which increased with age. Among adults aged 18 to 64 years, 805,000 hospitalizations and 75,245 deaths occurred. Rates of emergency department visits varied by state (from 56.4 per 100,000 in Connecticut to 274.8 per 100,000 in Kentucky). Variance was also seen for hospitalizations (484 [Wyoming] to 1,670.3 per 100,000 [Washington, D.C.]) and mortality (111.2 [Vermont] to 267.3 per 100,000 [Mississippi]). Without preventive intervention, approximately 16.3 million events and $173.7 billion in hospitalization costs could occur from 2017 to 2021. "Million Hearts-preventable events place a considerable health and economic burden on the United States," the authors write. "With coordinated efforts, many of these events could be prevented in every state to achieve the initiative's goal (to prevent one million cardiovascular events during 2017 to 2021)." Explore further CDC: infant mortality rate varies greatly among states Copyright 2018 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Credit: stock.adobe.com In a new study, Yale researchers found that popular brands of cigarillos are flavored with high-intensity sweeteners, potentially reducing the aversive sensation of smoking and making cigarillos more palatable. The concern is that these sweeteners encourage young people to smoke cigarillos. Cigarillos are small cigars that have become increasingly popular in recent years. Only slightly larger than cigarettes, cigarillo flavors aren't subject to the same restrictions in the U.S. as cigarettes. Adding any flavors other than menthol to cigarettes is not allowed. In contrast, cigarillos come in a wide variety of flavorsone of the reasons the products are especially popular among youth. The study, published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), found that high-intensity sweetenerschemicals such as sucralose, which can be hundreds of times sweeter than sugarwere present not only in cigarillos labeled as having "sweet" flavor, but also in cigarillos with "classic" cigar and fruity flavors such as "grape." The researchers analyzed the six most popular brands in the U.S., which account for 90% of the national cigarillo market. For each brand, they tested at least one product that featured a "sweet" flavor, a "classic" flavor, and where available, a fruity flavor such as grape. The project was a collaboration between the lab of Julie Zimmerman, professor of chemical and environmental engineering, and the Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science (TCORS) in the department of psychiatry, with support by Sven Jordt at Duke University. Of the 31 cigarillo wrappers examined, 29 had high-intensity sweeteners in all tested flavors. Using table sugar as the standard of sweetness, the researchers found that 74 percent of the analyzed cigarillo wrappers were sweeter than a sugar-free candy. Sweeteners were found predominantly on the mouth end of the cigarillo, creating an easy route to the user's taste buds. "Once these compounds reach the tongue and thereby the taste buds, they create a sweet, pleasant, and possibly rewarding taste that can mask the bitter taste of nicotine and tobacco," said first author Hanno Erythropel, a postdoctoral associate in Zimmerman's lab and a trainee in TCORS. The concern, said co-author Stephanie O'Malley, is that flavors in tobacco products not only encourage young people to start using these products, but to continue using them by reducing the harsh, bitter taste that often keeps one-time users from smoking again. "Nicotine is addicting, but you have to expose yourself repeatedly to become addicted," said O'Malley, professor of psychiatry. "The initial use of these products can be aversive, and things like sweeteners can make them less so." The Food and Drug Administration is considering expanding the current ban on flavors in cigarettes to cigarillos and other cigars, and similar efforts exist in several states and cities. The researchers note, though, that such regulations currently extend only to flavors and not high-intensity sweeteners. The researchers say they hope the study's findings will inform regulatory policies with the goal of preventing Americans from becoming addicted to nicotine. Explore further Cigarillo packaging can influence product perception, study finds More information: Presence of High-Intensity Sweeteners in Popular Cigarillos of Varying Flavor Profiles JAMA. DOI: 10.1001/jama.2018.11187 Journal information: Journal of the American Medical Association Presence of High-Intensity Sweeteners in Popular Cigarillos of Varying Flavor Profiles New research being presented at this year's European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) Annual Meeting in Berlin, Germany (1-5 October), suggests that insulin is often stored at the wrong temperature in patients' fridges at home, which could affect its potency. Many injectable drugs and vaccines are highly sensitive to heat and cold and can perish if their temperature shifts a few degrees. To prevent loss of effectiveness, insulin must stay between 2-8C/36-46F in the refrigerator or 2-30C/30-86F when carried about the person in a pen or vial. Individuals with diabetes often store insulin at home for several months before they use it, but little is known about how storage in domestic fridges impacts insulin quality. To investigate how often insulin is stored outside the manufacturer's recommended temperature range, Dr. Katarina Braune from Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin in Germany in collaboration with Professor Lutz Heinemann (Science & Co) and the digital health company MedAngel BV monitored the temperature of insulin formulations stored in fridges at home and carried as a spare. Between November 2016 and February 2018, 388 diabetes patients living in the USA and the EU placed temperature sensors (MedAngel ONE, http://www.medangel.co) either next to their insulin in the fridge and or their diabetes bag. Temperature data were automatically measured every 3 minutes (up to 480 times a day) before being sent to an app and recorded on a secure database. Temperature data were recorded for an average of 49 days. Analysis of 400 temperature logs (230 for refrigerated and 170 carried insulin) revealed that 315 (79%) contained deviations from the recommended temperature range. On average, insulin stored in the fridge was out of the recommended temperature range 11% of the time (equivalent to 2 hours and 34 mins a day). In contrast, insulin carried by patients was only outside recommendations for around 8 minutes a day. Importantly, freezing was an even bigger issue, with 66 sensors (17%) measuring temperatures below 0?C (equivalent to 3 hours a month on average). "Many people with diabetes are unwittingly storing their insulin wrong because of fluctuating temperatures in domestic refrigerators", says Dr. Braune. "When storing your insulin in the fridge at home, always use a thermometer to check the temperature. Long-term storage conditions of insulin are known to have an impact on its blood-glucose lowering effect. For people living with insulin-dependent diabetes who take insulin several times a day via injections or continuously administer insulin with a pump, precise dosing is essential to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes. Even gradual loss of potency introduces unnecessary variability in dosing. More research is needed to examine the extent to which temperature deviations during domestic storage affect insulin efficacy and patient outcomes." Explore further Increasing cost of insulin has serious health consequences Credit: Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers A group of expert panelists gathered to discuss "Thyroid Immune TestingGuidelines, Testing Platforms, and Clinical Impact on Women's Health." The informative and enlightening results of the Roundtable discussion are presented in an article published with Journal of Women's Health, a peer-reviewed publication from Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers. Click here to read the expert panel discussion. Helena Rodbard, MD, a practicing endocrinologist, Past-President of the American College of Endocrinology, and Past President of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists served as moderator of the Roundtable. Members of the distinguished panel were: Tim Korevaar, MD, Ph.D., Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (Boston MA); Mark Lupo, MD, Thyroid and Endocrine Center of Florida (Sarasota) and Florida State University College of Medicine (Tallahassee); Trevor Angell, MD, and Caroline Nguyen, MD, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California (Los Angeles). The main goal of the Expert Panel Discussion was to gather information to allow clinicians to better identify the early signs and symptoms of autoimmune thyroid disease and to understand the role that thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor antibodies, such as thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) and thyroid-blocking immunoglobulins (TBI), play in the disease states of Graves' disease and autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD or Hashimoto's thyroiditis), respectively. Dr. Rodbard comments that understanding the early signs and symptoms of hypo- and hyperthyroidism are so important for practitioners treating women, because the prevalence of these diseases is so much higher in women. Often, the early symptoms may be overlapping. "The American Thyroid Association (ATA) has recently recommended thyroid antibody testing. Let's discuss what happens when a patient presents with signs and symptoms suggestive of either hypo-or hyperthyroidism," Dr. Rodbard challenged the panel. She also opened discussion on topics such as treating women who are pregnant and have Graves' disease, the role of thyroid dysfunction and fertility, when to encourage physicians to look for clustering of other autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, and how thyroid function test measurement is affected by women who use biotin. Explore further Thyroid health important to all, says expert Credit: CC0 Public Domain A recent study revealed what medical symptoms were the most commonly searched on Google, state by state across the U.S. People turned to the search engine for a variety of health-related questions and concerns. Although many of the searches were for common symptoms, that was not the case in South Carolina. The symptom Palmetto State residents Googled about more than anything else was different from the other 49 states. They were concerned with the color of their poop, according to medicarehealthplans.com. South Carolina residents were Googling "dark green stool" more than any other symptom over the past year, research from the study showed. Wisconsin was the only other state where the residents asked Google about the meaning behind the color of their feces. But unlike South Carolina's "dark green stool," people living in Wisconsin wanted the search engine to inform them about "light colored poop," medicarehealthplans.com reported. The Palmetto State's neighbors in North Carolina were far less colorful with their most common query. The most common symptom Googled in N.C., and New York, was "loss of sleep," according to the study. Overall, the study found that the most Googled symptom in the U.S. was stress. Stress was the top concern in one-fifth of the states. In 2017, the American Psychological Association said the top sources of stress were "money, work, the current political climate, the future of the nation, and violence and crime." Other common searches included nasal congestion, stuffy nose and sniffles. Some other unique searches saw people looking up sweaty palms (California), pregnancy cravings (Tennessee), night sweats (Maine) and uncircumcised problems (Indiana). According to medicarehealthplans.com, the study was based on the most frequently searched symptoms of the past year on Google Trends. But it pointed out that the findings "don't mean these are the symptoms most people have in each state." The people behind the study also remind that Google can't "diagnose the cause of a condition. There's no substitute for seeing a real doctor." Explore further Google aims for better health search results 2018 The State (Columbia, S.C.) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. "We observed a 45 percent decrease in tumor load," explains Muriel Cuendet, Associate Professor in the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the UNIGE Faculty of Science. Credit: UNIGE Lung cancer is the deadliest form of cancer in the world, and 80 percent of death are related to smoking. In addition to tobacco control, effective chemoprevention strategies are therefore needed. A team of scientists from the University of Geneva (UNIGE), Switzerland, studied a well-known natural product, resveratrol, which is found in grapes and in red wine. While its chemopreventive properties against cancers affecting the digestive tract have been documented by previous studies, resveratrol has so far shown no effect on lung cancers. Thanks to nasal administration, the UNIGE team obtained very promising results in a study conducted in mice and described in the journal Scientific Reports. We tried to prevent lung cancer induced by a carcinogen found in cigarette smoke by using resveratrol, an already well-documented molecule, in a mouse model," explains Muriel Cuendet, associate professor in the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the UNIGE Faculty of Science. This 26-week-long study compared four groups of mice. The first one, the control, received neither carcinogen nor resveratrol treatment. The second received only the carcinogen, the third received both the carcinogen and the treatment, and the fourth received only the treatment. "We observed a 45 percent decrease in tumor load per mouse in the treated mice. They developed fewer tumors and of smaller size than untreated mice," says Cuendet. When comparing the two groups that were not exposed to carcinogen, 63 percent of the mice treated did not develop cancer, compared to only 12.5 percent of the untreated mice. "Resveratrol could therefore play a preventive role against lung cancer," she continues. This formulation is applicable to humans However, resveratrol does not seem suitable for preventing lung cancer: When ingested, it is metabolized and eliminated within minutes, and therefore does not have time to reach the lungs. "This is why our challenge was to find a formulation in which resveratrol could be solubilized in large quantities, even though it is poorly soluble in water, in order to allow nasal administration. This formulation, applicable to humans, allows the compound to reach the lungs," explains Aymeric Monteillier, a scientist in the School of pharmaceutical sciences of the UNIGE Faculty of Science, and the first author of the study. The resveratrol concentration obtained in the lungs after nasal administration of the formulation was 22 times higher than when taken orally. The chemoprevention mechanism is probably related to apoptosis, a process by which cells program their own death and from which cancer cells escape. The UNIGE research team will now focus on finding a biomarker that could contribute to the selection of people eligible for preventive treatment with resveratrol. Resveratrol is a well-known molecule found in food supplements, meaning that no further toxicological study would be needed prior to commercialisation as a preventive treatment. "This discovery is unfortunately of little economic interest to pharmaceutical groups. The molecule is indeed simple and non-patentable and cancer prevention studies require a follow-up over many years," regrets Muriel Cuendet, without excluding the development of preventive treatment in humans. Explore further Substance in grapes prevents agglomeration of a mutant protein that leads to cancer More information: Aymeric Monteillier et al. Intranasal administration of resveratrol successfully prevents lung cancer in A/J mice, Scientific Reports (2018). Journal information: Scientific Reports Aymeric Monteillier et al. Intranasal administration of resveratrol successfully prevents lung cancer in A/J mice,(2018). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32423-0 Penn Medicine experts in nephrology and health policy call for more transparency about joint-venture ownership of dialysis clinics to better understand what impact these arrangements may have on patient referrals and clinical outcomes. Currently, physicians who enter into these ventures, in which they share in the management, profit, and losses of a dialysis facility, are not required to disclose the relationship nor discuss it with patients. And no information about dialysis clinic joint-venture arrangements is publicly available. The lack of transparency poses a major barrier for evidence-based health care policy research and deprives patients of critical information, the researchers write in a new Perspective published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Dialysisthe treatment that filters blood for patients with kidney complicationsis a profitable business in the United States. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services spent $34 billion in 2014 on beneficiaries with end-stage renal disease, and the two largest dialysis companies, DaVita Kidney Care and Fresenius Medical Care, which control 70 percent of the market, reported an annual net income in the range of $1 billion in recent years. "There are a variety of different joint-venture arrangements between dialysis clinics, both for-profit and non-profit, and physicians, but we have no idea what consequences for patients, good or bad, come from such arrangements," said first author Jeffrey S. Berns, MD, a professor of Medicine and associate chief of Renal Electrolyte and Hypertension in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. "It's only fair to patients that this information be made available so the relationship between joint-venture ownership of dialysis clinics and outcomes of patients with kidney failure who are on dialysis can be studied." What's more, ethically speaking, patients should be aware of these ties to make an informed decision about their care, he added. Joint ventures are promoted as a way of aligning the interests of nephrologists with those of dialysis providers in order to improve clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. However, that assertion has never been studied. The authors said that such ventures create financial incentives for participating nephrologists that may inappropriately influence decisions about patient care. They ask, "might a nephrologist with a financial stake in a dialysis facility be more likely to recommend that a patient start dialysis? Could there be pressure to refer a patient to a facility in which the nephrologist is a partner, even though other facilities might be closer to the patient's home, have more convenient dialysis shifts, offer better services or treatment modes, or provide higher-quality care?" "It is certainly possible that these concerns are not borne out in practice and that joint ventures actually improve outcomes and patient satisfaction," the authors wrote. "The only way to find out is with independent, empirical research comparing the outcomes and costs of care among patients receiving treatment at joint-venture facilities with those at other facilities. Unfortunately, such research is not only nonexistent, it is currently impossible to conduct." Berns and co-authors Aaron Glickman and Matthew S. McCoy, Ph.D., both from the department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, also recommend nephrology specialty societies follow the lead of the American Medical Association and other professional organizations by developing guidelines mandating disclosure of joint-venture arrangements and any other financial ties between nephrologists and dialysis providers to patients and their families before initiation of dialysis at a particular facility. Berns calls the issue one of the most important, but also one of the least discussed and understood, in the dialysis industry today. Explore further Patients report poorer dialysis service in certain settings A montage of three images of single striatal neurons transfected with a disease-associated version of huntingtin, the protein that causes Huntington's disease. Nuclei of untransfected neurons are seen in the background (blue). The neuron in the center (yellow) contains an abnormal intracellular accumulation of huntingtin called an inclusion body (orange). Credit: Wikipedia/ Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license New research from the University of British Columbia suggests that reducing mutated Huntington disease protein in the brain can restore cognitive and psychiatric impairments in mice. Huntington disease (HD) is a genetic, progressive disorder that causes mental decline, psychiatric problems and uncontrolled movements. The disease is caused by mutant huntingtin (HTT) protein, with symptoms appearing in adulthood and worsening over time. Scientists delivered gene therapy treatment to mice in the form of pieces of DNA, called antisense oligonucleotides, that decreased production of the toxic HTT protein. With this intervention, the researchers found mice regained cognitive performance and became less anxious and depressed. "Being able to restore cognitive function and improve anxiety in an ill mouse is very exciting," said study lead author Amber Southwell, assistant professor at Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, who conducted the research as a postdoctoral research fellow at the UBC Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics. "Most Huntington disease studies have focused on motor performance, so we wanted to assess mood, learning and memory that represent significant burdens." There is no cure for Huntington disease, but researchers are working towards preventative treatment, so people who have the HTT gene never develop the disease. Scientists hope people may one day be able to access ongoing treatment, much like those who suffer from asthma. Michael Hayden, study senior author, University Killam Professor, senior scientist and founder of the UBC Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, said the symptom that is most apparent in HD patients is the uncontrolled dance like movements, but the psychiatric symptoms and cognitive decline are particularly debilitating. "This study reinforces the potential of huntingtin lowering not only on the movement disorder but also on psychiatric and cognitive features, assuming adequate lowering of huntingtin in the appropriate regions is achieved," said Hayden. Approximately one in 7,000 people in Canada has HD and every child of a person with the disease has a 50 per cent chance of inheriting the gene that causes the illness. The study was published in the journal Science Translational Medicine. Explore further Inherited gene that leads to Huntington's causes changes in brain development from a young age More information: A.L. Southwell el al., "Huntingtin suppression restores cognitive function in a mouse model of Huntington's disease," Science Translational Medicine (2018). Journal information: Science Translational Medicine A.L. Southwell el al., "Huntingtin suppression restores cognitive function in a mouse model of Huntington's disease,"(2018). stm.sciencemag.org/lookup/doi/ scitranslmed.aar3959 The married professors were spending their Thanksgiving holiday in Egypt when the husband, Thomas L. Patterson, Ph.D., got very sick very quickly, experiencing fever, nausea and a racing heartbeat. By the time Patterson was accurately diagnosed with a highly multi-drug resistant bacterial infection, he was near death. His wife, Steffanie Strathdee, Ph.D., promised to "leave no stone unturned.'" What happened next is the ultimate infectious disease feel good story: Strathdee, part of an All-Star team of infectious disease experts and epidemiologists, concocted a cocktail of viruses that killed the superbug and saved Patterson's life. "He was going to die," says Roberta L. DeBiasi, M.D., MS, chief of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Children's National Health System. "Because of her epidemiology backgroundand because she loves himPatterson became the first patient successfully treated with bacteriophages." Dr. DeBiasi explains that all viruses take over cells and use their machinery for their own purposes. In order to escape, viruses blow up the cell. Bacteriophages are viruses that target bacteria, taking over their machinery and ultimately killing the bacterial host. "Infection is a race between the body's immune response and the bacteria replicating themselves," she adds. "Bacteria have to continually replicate. If you knock out 90 percent of them with phage therapy, that gives the immune system a fighting chance to win the race." She was so inspired by the team's ingenuity that DeBiasi, program vice-chair, invited them to recount the story during IDWeek2018, held Oct. 3 to Oct. 7, 2018, in San Francisco. During the closing plenary, Patterson, a professor of psychiatry, and Strathdee, associate dean of Global Health Sciences, will be joined by Robert T. "Chip" Schooley, M.D., (all of University of California, San Diego), to discuss the clinical aspects and efficacy of phage therapy. About 50 years ago, the U.S. military had investigated leveraging phages but ultimately placed that research portfolio on the back burner. Now, in the face of growing antibiotic resistance and few experimental antibiotics in the development pipeline, phages are drawing renewed research interest as a potential silver bullet. "The technology has been around for 50 years. We're going back to old things because we're so desperate," Dr. DeBiasi adds. The tricky thing with phages is that each bacterium needs its own tailored phage therapy. Children's National is working with Adaptive Phage Therapeutics, a company based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, that developed the phage used to save Patterson, in order to help build out that library of phages, each ready to be directed to do battle against a specific pathogen. "We have been consultants to them to think about what would be a good clinical trial, particularly in a pediatric population," Dr. DeBiasi says. Children's National has been collecting and sending isolates from patients with neurogenic bladder who experience urinary tract infections to shore up the phage library in anticipation of a clinical trial. The work builds on Children's experience as the first center to use phage therapy in a pediatric patient, a 2-year-old who had multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection complicated by bacteremia/sepsis. Explore further Cured by a virus: Woman receives experimental treatment for debilitating infection Credit: CC0 Public Domain Experiencing physical or emotional abuse in childhood can measurably reduce the wages of young adults, according to a study conducted in South Africa by an international research team, including Dr. Xiangming Fang of the School of Public Health at Georgia State University. On average, the researchers found that child maltreatment was associated with a 12 percent loss of wages for the young adult study participants in South Africa. Child maltreatment in developing countries "plays a key role in the economic burden and socioeconomic inequality" in those societies, the researchers said. "Developing countries cannot afford any loss to the economy, let alone one that results from a human rights violation, and it is clear that prevention and intervention programs in low- and middle-income countries like South Africa are urgently needed." The findings are published in the paper "Association of Child Maltreatment with South African Adults' Wages: Evidence from the Cape Area Panel Study" published in the journal Health Economics Review. The researchers used survey data of 14-to-22-year-olds who self-reported whether they had experienced physical or emotional abuse while growing up. They then assessed the self-reported wages of those young people when they were 21-29 years old. The number of study participants was 2,644. The researchers found some gender differences, with females suffering an overall greater negative impact on wages if they experienced either physical or emotional maltreatment in childhood. Males' wages were more affected by childhood experiences of emotional abuse and females' wages were more affected by physical abuse in childhood. In a previous paper, Dr. Fang and the same team of researchers found that the economic burden of violence against children in South Africa in 2015 was 173 billion rand, the equivalent of $13.5 billion. That study focused on the value of years of life lost because of illness, disability or early death caused by violence, as well as the cost of survivors' reduced earnings and the cost of child welfare services. More information: Xiaodong Zheng et al. Association of Child Maltreatment with South African Adults' Wages: Evidence from the Cape Area Panel Study, Health Economics Review (2018). Journal information: Health Economics Xiaodong Zheng et al. Association of Child Maltreatment with South African Adults' Wages: Evidence from the Cape Area Panel Study,(2018). DOI: 10.1186/s13561-018-0206-6 New research presented at this year's annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) in Berlin looks into the rising prevalence of both obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) around the world and estimates the population that will likely be affected by both conditions over the coming decades. The research conducted by University College London, Steno Diabetes Centre Copenhagen and Novo Nordisk, studied past trends as a guide to predicting the regional prevalence of obesity and T2D from 2017 to 2045. The study was commissioned by Cities Changing Diabetes, a partnership programme established to improve the understanding of diabetes in urban settings. Around the world, obesity and T2D are rising at an alarming rate, and while T2D is a complex condition influenced by multiple diverse factors, the one that is most significant, and also modifiable, is excess bodyweight. There are currently around 650 million obese people around the world, and more than 400 million individuals living with diabetes. In support of the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Target 7 "Halt the rise in diabetes and obesity", the authors have previously demonstrated that stabilising the number of people living with diabetes at 10% of the world's population will require a 25% reduction in the prevalence of obesity. Should this be achieved, a staggering 111 million cases of diabetes would be prevented. In this study, the team have produced two sets of predictions, one based on a past trend scenario in which rates of obesity and T2D follow existing trends and continue to rise, and another target scenario which assumes that the goal of reducing obesity prevalence by 25% by 2045 is achieved. The authors obtained BMI data for all the countries in the world covering the years 2000 to 2014 from the Non-communicable Disease Risk Factor Collaboration. The adult population of each country was then split into groups by age and body mass index (BMI), and a projection of the share of people in each BMI class was calculated based on the past trend and the target scenario of reduced obesity. The risk of developing T2D at different ages and BMIs were then applied to the data to estimate diabetes prevalence for each country and scenario in 2045. (for individual country info, please contact the authors details below) The study found that the North America and Caribbean region has the highest current rates of obesity and T2D (35.7% and 13.2% respectively), and will continue to do so in 2045 in both past trend (51.5% and 16.8%) and target scenario (26.8% and 13.1%) outcomes. If the target scenario can be achieved, it will result in 15.3 million fewer people in the region developing diabetes than if the past trend continues. Currently the lowest rates of T2D are found in Africa with just 3.3% of the population having the disease, despite a moderate obesity rate of 9.0%. This pattern is projected to continue to 2045 in both past trend (16.4% obesity rate, 4.2% T2D rate), and target (6.4% and 3.5% respectively) scenarios. The authors estimate that 7.2 million people in Africa could avoid acquiring T2D if obesity prevalence can be reduced by 25% by 2045. In South-East Asia, the pattern is reversed, with the lowest current regional obesity rate of just 4.0% despite a relatively high prevalence of T2D (8.7%). The study suggests that this trend will also continue through to 2045 resulting in past trend (7.9% obesity rate, 12.0% T2D rate) and target (3.1% and 10.7% respectively) scenarios in which achieving the goal of a reduced obesity rate would result in 17.1 million fewer cases of T2D. The authors note that the proportion of people with T2D who are also obese differs substantially among regions. In North America and the Caribbean 60% of individuals with T2D are obese, while the figure in South-East Asia is just 10%. The authors say: "North America and the Caribbean and Europe where obesity has been on the rise for decades have the highest T2D prevalence but also the slowest future increases." They add: "In regions with lower T2D prevalence like Africa, the number of people with T2D will increase up to three-fold in the coming three decades unless obesity prevalence is reduced." They conclude: "To realise the target scenario, health should be integrated into all policies in order to contribute to reduce the obesity and T2D burden. Not doing so represents a lost opportunity to improve people's health, well-being and economic productivity." (HealthDay)The number of Americans with diabetes who wind up in hospitals with serious infections, or who develop them while in the hospital, is on the rise. Between 2010 and 2015, the number of diabetics hospitalized for infections rose 52 percent (from 16 per 1,000 people to 24 per 1,000), according to researchers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "People with diabetes are more susceptible to in-hospital infections as compared with people without diabetes, and this risk is increasing," said lead researcher Jessica Harding, from the CDC's Division of Diabetes Translation. "The most common infection types in people with and without diabetes were respiratory tract and skin infections," Harding said. But the rates of infection were seven times higher in people with diabetes, she added. The rise in overall infections is largely driven by increases in patients who develop sepsis while in the hospital, Harding said. "However, we also see in people with diabetes an increase in foot ulcers, coinciding with an increase in lower limb amputations," she added. Dr. Louis Philipson, director of the University of Chicago Kovler Diabetes Center, said it isn't clear why diabetics develop more infections. "We do not even have data as to whether the infections occurred in people with more poorly controlled diabetes, though that seems like a reasonable guess," said Philipson, who is also president-elect for medicine and science at the American Diabetes Association. High blood sugar decreases the activity of the immune system and can cause many changes in tissue, skin and blood flow, all of which can increase the risk of infections, Philipson said. "Exactly which factors are most important here, and whether access to health care played a role, we do not know yet," he added. Urinary tract, skin and connective tissue infections are associated with high blood sugar levels and poorly controlled diabetes, Philipson explained. Preventing diabetes and reaching the optimum targets for blood sugar control are key to reducing infections. "Along with that, regular visits to a primary care doctor and specialist as needed to get the best foot care, eye care and review of kidney function will go a long way towards preventing complications of diabetes," Philipson said. For the study, Harding and her colleagues used national hospitalization data from 2000 to 2015. The data captured about 20 percent of all hospitalizations in 46 states, representing more than 96 percent of the U.S. population. The investigators found that people with diabetes are about two to seven times more likely to be hospitalized with an infection than the general population. "Improved access to preventive care, as well as promoting education to reduce risk factors for underlying disease processes, will be essential to decrease the risk of infections in people with diabetes," Harding said. Dr. Joel Zonszein directs the Clinical Diabetes Center at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City. He said it's concerning that the majority of patients with diabetes are not treated properly, since high blood sugar levels predispose them to infections. "We have proper ways to treat diabetes, and there should be no excuse why patients shouldn't be getting the best care," he said. "More research is not neededmore effective treatment is imperative." The results of the study were scheduled for presentation Tuesday at the meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes, in Berlin. Research presented at medical meetings should be considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal. Explore further Poor diabetes control can lead to increased risk of serious infections, study shows More information: Visit the Visit the American Diabetes Association for more on type 2 diabetes. Copyright 2018 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Credit: CC0 Public Domain The Stanford Prison Experiment is one of the few scientific studies to enter the public consciousness through mainstream news, documentaries, popular books, a TED talk and a major motion picture. Recently, it has been making headlines in a very bad way. In 1971, Stanford University psychology professor Philip Zimbardo sought to evaluate the prison's impact on human behavior. He randomly assigned normal, healthy, emotionally stable male college students (without criminal records) to be "prisoners" or "guards" in a fake prison. Within six days, Zimbardo ended the experiment. The "guards" were torturing the "prisoners," and the "prisoners" were rebelling or experiencing psychological breakdown. In news articles, the Stanford experiment has been "debunked" and "exposed as a fraud." Its findings have been declared "very wrong" and "fake." It has been further criticized for experimenter interference, faked behaviour from participants and for research design problems, among other things. These serious critiques have generated much discussion in academic circles and in news articles about what, if anything, we can learn from the experiment. And yet, as someone who studies prisons, I'm struck by how much the Stanford Prison Experiment got right. A wealth of other research suggests prisons have serious detrimental effects on prisoners and prison workers alike. What the research says Living and working in prison is extremely stressful and demoralizing. Some people are better at repelling these effects than others. Even so, prisoners and prison workers suffer from high rates of depression, anxiety, suicide, PTSD and other devastating conditions. For many prisoners, these conditions continue after prison and can be worsened by the transition into the free world. We have long known that prisons are damaging places for both prisoners and prison workers. In his 1956 book, Society of Captives, Princeton sociology professor Gresham Sykes explained that incarceration deeply injured prisoners' dignity and self-concept. He also described how prison officers became "corrupted" by the prison environment with its contradictory imperatives, impossible-to-enforce rules and necessary compromises. In the 60 years since Sykes' book, research in diverse prison settings has confirmed and expanded upon many of his findings. The role of prison design These insights extend beyond contemporary prisons in the United States. Prisons in Norway, Sweden and Denmark, known for their humaneness, also cause harm. Indeed, smart designs can lessen, but not destroy, the prison's negative impacts. But since the 1970s, in many Western countries, the main goal when designing prisons has been containment and security, not prisoners' physical and mental health. Popping up in the U.S. in the 1980s and 1990s, supermaximum security prisons (Supermaxes), which contain prisoners in solitary confinement in small concrete cells for 23 hours a day, are a particularly harmful design. Prisoners react differently to these Supermax prison regimes. Some are able to withstand the conditions, others break down within hours of their arrival. We do not yet fully understand why people react differently, but we do know that Supermax prisons have an array of negative impacts on prisoners' mental health including hallucinations, self-harm and permanent psychological damage. Not just prisoners Prison staff are also affected. The history of American imprisonment is also filled with examples of people with good intentions becoming "corrupted" by the prison. Pennsylvania's Eastern State Penitentiary opened in 1829. Progressive Philadelphia penal reformers designed Eastern to be more humane than other prisons, with prisoners' physical and mental health in mind. They implemented a routine combining work, education, mentorship and outdoor exercise to benefit both prisoners and society. Finally, they sought to protect prisoners' identities so they could reenter society without stigma. Within five years of the prison's opening, however, the penal reformers, now prison administrators, had betrayed their humanitarian goals. They bent the rules, out of necessity or convenience, so the prison functioned smoothly. In the process, they sacrificed the regime's humanitarian and prisoner-focused elements. Eastern's administrators authorized torture, including what we now call waterboarding, held misbehaving prisoners after their sentences had expired until they apologized and justified these actions as beneficial to prisoners. These gaps between theory and practice, including the use of torture punishments, were common at other American prisons in the 19th century and into the 20th. Other penal reformersturned-administrators engaged in similar malfeasance despite their apparently genuine commitment to humanitarian values. The situation was even more dire at prisons that were explicitly designed to be punitive and lacked Eastern's humanitarian motivations. Beyond the Stanford experiment Even including these past failures, modern prisons rarely devolve as quickly and decidedly into a den of overt torture and serious mental breakdown as seen in the "Stanford Prison." It does happen the Abu Ghraib torture scandal and the retaking of Attica Prison following the 1971 riot are graphic illustrations of how prison can unleash the worst of human nature with terrible consequences but such extreme cases remain rare. Prisons' negative effects are typically less dramatic and do less to capture the public imagination. There is something about prisons that is damaging. But what is it? Even the most humanely designed prisons have negative effects on the people living and working inside. And that is the deep truth we are still seeking to understand and the Stanford Prison Experiment effectively illustrates. Explore further Widespread dispersal of prisoners revealed in new data This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Human chromosomes (grey) capped by telomeres (white). Credit: PD-NASA; PD-USGOV-NASA Why do women typically live longer than men? The Keynote Address at The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) Annual Meeting in San Diego, October 3-6, reviews some old and provides some new answers, highlighting the latest studies on the protective effects of sex hormones and estrogen, as well as other tips for slowing the aging process by improving telomere health. Women have some natural physical advantages as to why they live longer than men. While this gender gap is not fully understood, it is well known that there are more reasons than just the typical riskier behaviors of some men, including smoking and drinking alcohol. It is thought to be, in part, due to estrogen protecting women from heart disease for a longer period in life. In trying to understand why women age slower than men, researchers have looked at the rate of cellular aging. One of the biological differences from birth is that women have longer telomeres (the endcaps of DNA strands that protect chromosomes from deterioration). Scientists have long understood the importance of telomeres in healthy longevity. More recent studies have focused on those factors that affect telomere length and what can be done to protect them. In her Keynote Address at the upcoming NAMS Annual Meeting entitled "Healthy Longevity and Telomeres: What Does Sex Have to Do With It?" Dr. Elissa Epel from the University of California in San Francisco will provide a detailed look at those factors that modulate telomere length, with special emphasis on women's reproductive health, hormones and mental health. Longer telomeres predict less cardiovascular disease and, in many instances, a longer life for both men and women. "Some experimental studies suggest estrogen exposure increases the activity of telomerase, the enzyme that can protect and elongate telomeres," says Dr. Epel. She warns, however, that telomeres can be shortened prematurely by stress and chronic or childhood psychological adversity. "We look forward to what promises to be a fascinating presentation with implications for slowing telomere attrition and age-related conditions," says Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton, NAMS executive director. Explore further New study identifies possible predictor for women's longevity A new Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research study offers infertile women new information regarding their expected probabilities of becoming pregnant and may help them select the optimal treatment based on their various risk factors. In an analysis of the medical records of 1,864 female infertile patients in Tokyo from 2000-2015, 49.4% and 21.9% of patients conceived after being treated with assisted reproductive technology (ART) and non-ART, respectively. Age over 35 years, advanced endometriosis, and a past history or current presence of uterine fibroids had negative impacts on the outcome of non-ART. The effect of advanced endometriosis was especially high for patients in their 30s. ART treatment for patients with advanced endometriosis was effective. ART treatments include in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection, while non-ART treatments include mild ovarian stimulation together with timed intercourse and/or intra-uterine insemination. "Some women in their early 30's may be suffering from advanced stage endometriosis and will remain to be infertile unless they are extensively treated," said co-author Dr. Osamu Wada-Hiraike, of The University of Tokyo. Explore further Infertility risk posed by endometriosis may be half of previous estimation More information: Wataru Isono et al, The efficacy of non-assisted reproductive technology treatment might be limited in infertile patients with advanced endometriosis in their 30s, Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research (2018). Wataru Isono et al, The efficacy of non-assisted reproductive technology treatment might be limited in infertile patients with advanced endometriosis in their 30s,(2018). DOI: 10.1111/jog.13826 Credit: CC0 Public Domain Even before ancient Egyptians, the search was on for aphrodisiacs that stimulated sexual desire and pleasure. Today, although we better understand the science behind desire, there is still much to be learned. The Presidential Symposium at The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) Annual Meeting in San Diego, October 3-6, will provide a historical world-wide tour of the search for aphrodisiacs, ending with current evidence-based pharmacologic treatments for hypoactive sexual desire disorder. Much has been learned in recent years about how and why women get in the mood for sex. Yet, there still remains only one FDA-approved pharmacologic option for women diagnosed with hypoactive sexual desire disorder and in need of treatment to enhance their overall quality of life. Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg from University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and President of NAMS will moderate and speak in the session titled "Sexual Desire: Wired for Wild?" at the upcoming NAMS Annual Meeting. Dr. James Pfaus from Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, will also speak in the session on the neurochemistry of sexual desire and highlight the role of the central nervous system and the neurotransmitter dopamine in stimulating pleasure. Additionally, Dr. Kingsberg will discuss how music, particularly Rock and Roll, plays a role in wiring humans for desire. She will explain the epigenetic effects of music on sexual desire and how research and scientific advances have moved in parallel with societal changes, as has the evolution of Rock and Roll. "Healthcare providers need a better understanding of the latest research in women's sexual health in order to help the number of women affected by hypoactive sexual desire disorder," says Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton, NAMS executive director. Explore further Why do women struggling with low sexual desire not seek treatment? Columbus, GA - Former state Rep. Jed Gilbert Harris Jr. of Columbus and his ex-girlfriend were arrested on misdemeanor charges early Monday after an altercation at Wild Wing Cafe, 6525 Whittlesey Blvd. Each was charged with simple battery involving family violence after the dispute that began late Sunday night. Harris, 64, was arrested around 12:30 a.m. and the woman, Cynthia Hatcher Patrick, 56, was charged around midnight, according to jail records. Each was booked into the jail about 1:20 a.m. and soon released on $1,000 bond, records show. The case will go to Muscogee State Court. The Ledger-Enquirer typically does not report misdemeanor offenses except in unusual circumstances. Harris is a public figure, having not only served in the Georgia General Assembly from 1991 to 1993, but having run for Columbus mayor in 2002. He is active in community organizations such as the Back The Blue effort to support public safety, and often attends political functions where hes photographed with dignitaries. He regularly posts those images to Facebook, where he has discussed again seeking public office. His arrest provoked passionate debate Tuesday on social media, where Harris claimed he was the victim in the dispute at Wild Wing Cafe. That prompted Patrick to post a response alleging she only threw water in Harris face, and he then assaulted her, grabbing her by the hair with one hand as he hit her with the other. In a telephone interview Tuesday afternoon, Harris flatly denied that: I did not touch her at all, he said. He said he and Patrick had dated, but broke up last November. She wanted to ask about getting back together, and thats why they met Sunday night, he said. He had to tell her he would not resume the relationship, and he thought he should tell her in person, he said: I was trying to do it in a kind way. According to Harris, she asked, Do you think we are done? And he replied, Yes, I believe were done. I think we had a good relationship at one time, and I wish you well, and we should go our separate ways. It did not go over well, he said: She just exploded. She cursed him and threw a big glass of ice water in his face, he said. Patrick in a telephone interview Tuesday said resuming the relationship was not the point of contention: I had no intention of getting back with that idiot. The dispute was over some photographs of her that Harris has on his cellphone, she said: He has some very private information of mine. She said Harris took photos of her without her permission, sometimes while she changed clothes. She wanted to ensure he deleted the images by having him do it while she watched, but he refused, she said. She claimed he first said, No, Im not going to do it, and then told her, Its not in my phone anymore. She assumed he was lying, she said: Then of course I started getting mad. She grabbed her glass of water and pitched it in his face, and he reacted first by throwing every other drink left on the table in her face, she said: The water and alcohol went up my nose and in my eyes. Then he assaulted her, she alleged grabbing her hair and hitting her. He had my head bent all the way backward, she said. Harris let go of her when a group of four to five big guys in the restaurant came toward the booth they were in. Thats the only reason he let go of me, because those guys were standing there, she said. She said she has bruises on her arms and lumps on both legs just below the knees, where she believes her legs hit the edge of the table. Harris said he does have revealing photos of Patrick. She sent photos to me, he said. He will delete them once the case is resolved, but has been advised to keep them for evidence, he said. He has hired Columbus attorney Mark Shelnutt. Harris maintained he never made physical contact with Patrick during the altercation: I reached across the table, but I did not touch her. According to police reports, two Wild Wing Cafe servers told officers they saw Harris pulling Patrick by the hair, their attention drawn by the noise of dishes crashing. Officers wrote that one of the witnesses said she saw Harris trying to pull Patrick out of the booth and repeatedly striking her in the head with his hand. The other witness said she saw Harris pull Patricks hair, but did not see Harris hit her. A third server said he saw only Patrick and Harris throwing drinks at each other. Harris said Tuesday that he had never been arrested before: I have no criminal record. This obviously was an eye-opener for me. Ive always tried to steer clear of controversy. He bears no ill will toward Patrick, he said: I truly wish her well. At the beginning of the year, an amendment to South Africas wiring code came into effect which makes a new plug and socket standard, SANS 1642, mandatory for new installations. SANS 1642, also known as ZA Plug, has the same hexagonal profile as the Europlug seen on cellphone chargers, but includes an earth pin. It is substantially more compact than South Africas three-prong plug standard, and has much thinner pins. With the wiring code amendment taking effect in January 2018, each plug point in a new building must have at least one socket that can accommodate a ZA Plug. However, uptake of the plug standard has been slow for several reasons. ZA Plug uptake Cecil Lancaster, a regional director for the Electrical Contractors Association of South Africa ECA(SA), said that from the installers side there was initially some confusion about the wiring code requirements. There was also some initial resistance due to the price difference between installing an outlet with at least one ZA Plug socket in it, and outlets that only support the older standard. The price has since reduced to the point where it is no longer a factor, said Lancaster. A natural knee-jerk resistance to change has also been a factor, he said. There was some consumer resistance due to existing appliances bearing the old type plug, but it is mostly satisfied by offering combination socket outlets containing both types, he said. On whether manufacturers have been supporting the standard, Lancaster said that most consumer goods have been coming with compatible plugs for some time. Think phone chargers, audio-visual equipment, TVs, DVD players, decoders, kitchen appliances, and similar unearthed appliances, he said. Earthed and more energy-intensive appliances like kettles, washing machines, fridges and such are slower taking it up. Chicken and egg Lancaster said that it remains a chicken-and-egg situation, however, as the installation of outlets increases, appliances will follow. Conversely, as more appliances come equipped with new plugs, it will stimulate the need for outlets. One obstacle to the transition is that socket-outlet units seem freely available in the retail market, but plugtops less so. To help reduce resistance to the change and further improve uptake, Lancaster said that reverse adaptors may be considered. These would make it possible to plug equipment with old type plugs (1641) into an adaptor which fits into a new socket (1642). Such adaptors are currently frowned upon by the powers-that-be because it was seen as a manner of circumventing or slowing down the transition, said Lancaster. Why a new standard? When the IEC first began development on IEC9061, which became IEC609061, it was trying to establish a universal plug and socket system. Despite its efforts, commercial and political interests caused the standardisation initiative to fail in Europe. Brazil and South Africa are the only countries to have adopted the standard. However, Brazil deviated from the standard by delivering either 127V or 220V mains using the same socket. Japan and the US have plugs and sockets that are compatible with the IECs envisioned global standard for 125V sockets. Talk of adopting the new standard began in South Africa in 1993, and a version of SANS 1642 that dates back to 2006 is available online. According to the SABS, the ZA Plug appeared in South Africas wiring code (SANS 101421) during 2012. Old standard still legal Although it is now required to integrate sockets which comply with the ZA Plug standard in new buildings, the old standard remains legal. As Lancaster mentioned, combination outlets are available which include the old SANS 1641 socket, as well as ZA Plug sockets. So long as an outlet includes at least one ZA Plug socket, it complies with the wiring code requirements. The wiring code amendment also does not affect existing buildings, including homes. It is therefore not currently necessary for South Africans to switch the existing electrical sockets in their homes. First it was Americas best-selling electric car. Then it became the best-selling luxury car. Now, against the odds, Tesla Inc.s Model 3 is becoming one of the best-selling sedans in America, period. Automakers on Tuesday reported monthly and quarterly sales totals. For the three months that ended in September, Tesla delivered more Model 3s than all but four of the top sedans sold in the U.S., regardless of size or price. Its an imperfect ranking because Tesla didnt break out sales by country, and the Model 3 tally included some deliveries to customers in Canada. And the climb comes at a time when Americans prefer crossovers, SUVs and truck by an ever-wider margin. Nonetheless, the third-quarter showing was unprecedented for an electric car and a remarkable turnabout for Tesla, which struggled for much of the last year to mass-produce the sedan. Teslas competitors are feeling it. Sales of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the best-selling luxury sedan in the U.S., plunged 24 percent last month and are down 28 percent for the year through September.BMW AGs namesake brand barely managed to eke out an increase last month, on the strength of its X3 crossover. Tesla is now ramping up their volumes, and its putting pressure on that market segment, Bernhard Kuhnt, chief executive officer of BMW North America, said of the luxury sedan space in an interview Tuesday. In that environment, Im very, very pleased to say we were up. BMW unveiled a revamped version of its signature 3 Series sedan Tuesday at the Paris auto show. Its next battery-electric vehicle, the iX3, wont be ready until 2020. By then, Daimler AGs Mercedes and Volkswagen AGs Audi and Porsche brands should have a slate of electric contenders. Jaguar plans to start delivering its electric I-Pace to U.S. customers next month. Its unclear if any of these offerings will have enough appeal to give internal combustion cars a run for their money. For now, Tesla is the first and only electric car to break into the ranks that are dominated by Japanese and Korean carmakers. And its doing so at a higher price than other mass-market cars. The most expensive versions of the Model 3 are currently the most popular, with an average selling price approaching $60,000. Tesla says cheaper versions starting at $35,000designed to appeal to a wider group of buyersmay be coming around the end of the year. Now read: Taxify expands to more South African cities We are still far from where ... Youre never completely powerless until youve given up on trying to make a difference. For proof, look at the organizers of Blue Wave Napa Valley, who have mounted a grassroots campaign to raise money for three Democratic congressional candidates. Blue Wave started when Julie Jenanyan of St. Helena was feeling despondent, helpless and appalled at the direction the country was heading under the current administration. She enlisted the help of some friends and has gone on to raise more than $45,000 for Democrats running in three flippable California districts. The candidates are Mike Levin, running against Republican Diane Harkey for Darrell Issas old seat in District 49; Harley Rouda, running against Republican incumbent Dana Rohrabacher in District 48; and Katie Hill, running against Republican incumbent Steve Knight in District 25. Jenanyan and Lisa Toller, a member of Blue Waves steering committee, told us they chose those candidates based on shared ideals, endorsements by Rep. Mike Thompson and former President Barack Obama, and the belief that the three districts could be flipped from red to blue, potentially helping Democrats take back Congress. Members of Blue Wave are only hitting up like-minded friends, so you wont find them soliciting outside the post office. All donations go directly to the three campaigns via the online fundraising platform Crowdhack, and Blue Wave organizers arent pocketing a cent in fact, they contributed their own money to start up bluewavenapavalley.com. Once a donor has contributed, theyre done. Blue Wave wont pester them with follow-up emails or phone calls. You dont have to support the three candidates or agree with Blue Waves politics to applaud its spirit. Instead of wallowing in misanthropy or anger, Jenanyan and her fellow grassroots organizers are taking a positive approach and trying to effect change. Blue Wave has hit upon a principle that transcends politics, one we can each apply in our own lives to whatever were passionate about. Education? Volunteer as a tutor. The environment? Pick up some litter along Sulphur Creek. Preserving neighborhoods? Apply for that open seat on the Planning Commission. The arts? Get involved with Nimbus Arts and support the White Barn and the Cameo Cinema. The future of the country? Vote, and encourage everyone you know to do the same. No matter where you stand, take a cue from Blue Wave and stand up for your beliefs. Chances are, youre not as powerless as you think. Disclosure: Two members of our board, Bonnie Long and Peter McCrea, have donated through Blue Wave Napa Valley. The Star editorial board consists of editors David Stoneberg and Sean Scully and community volunteers Norma Ferriz, Christopher Hill, Shannon Kuleto, Bonnie Long, Peter McCrea, Gail Showley and Dave Yewell. Ah, romance, ah, marriage and ah, love, perpetually dangling, stranded somewhere between the other two. Eleanor Coppolas new short feature Two for Dinner, a witty rumination on the state of modern romance, is among the films that will be screened at the Mill Valley Film Festival Oct. 4-14. In a cast of two,(Joanne Walley and Chris Messina), he is movie producer, handsome, debonair, oozing charm, and languishing on location in Montana for his wife. She, elegant, sophisticated, and cool, has stayed behind in Los Angeles to concentrate on her catering business after successfully launching their daughters to university. Their solution is to meet for a date on Facetime. As the film begins, they are already on Facetime, where he is recounting with poignant sighs how he is suffering in her absence. She reduces him to groans as he watches her put on a pair of red high heels. The date continues as they carry their laptops into their respective restaurants, she to a tony French restaurant, and he to a steakhouse where they have never heard of creme brulee but can offer him their specialty, campfire pie. Their dinner conversation is an interesting mix of mundane subjects of a 20-plus year marriage, such as leaking pipes, interspersed with his sexy badinage, the recurring theme of which is: please come to Montana where I am perishing of missing you. She maintains a poised charm in her repartee; her reserve ruffled only when a man at a nearby table sends over a glass of Champagne, or when her husband insists she kiss the computer screen good-night. Is he too good to be real? This will be discovered only when, owing to the leaking pipe, she decides to give into his urging and she flies to join him in Missoula. Two for Dinner is a wry, delicious piece in which New York steak meets Filet of Sole Amandine. Its one of three short films Coppola said she plans to unite in one feature- length production, all unified by a theme of relationships. After coming up with the idea, she co-wrote the script with Karen Lengh Hopkins. Coppola said that after seeing the first two completed films, men tend to protest against a soupcon of cynicism, while women said, Yes. I think there is a hunger for womens perspective, she added. Coppola had concentrated on documentary films before directing her first feature-length film, Paris Can Wait, released in 2016. After spending six years to secure funding for Paris Can Wait, which did not quite fit a specific genre (no superheroes), Coppola said it was a pleasure to make a 20-minute movie that could be shot locally and in four days. Its home movie style, she said, but with a level of polish. Coppola, 82, said she plans to continue writing and directing feature films. If not now, when? she asked. For more information and schedules for the Mill Valley Film Festival, visit www.mvff.com. A Napa resident and former part-time Napa Valley College professor is facing a 78-month prison sentence after admitting to sharing and possessing child pornography. In February, the federal government accused Joshua Robert McDill, 46, of possessing and distributing child porn in 2016 and 2017, respectively, according to court documents. He shared pornographic content that involved a child younger than 12 years old, according to the federal government. McDill pleaded not guilty to both felonies in February, but admitted to the charges in May. In September, William Alsup, U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of California, ordered McDill to begin his prison sentence on Dec. 18, documents show. He must register as a sex offender and will face seven years of supervised release, meaning a probation officer will supervise him after he leaves prison. McDills charges each carried a potential mandatory prison sentence of five years and a subsequent five years on supervised release, documents show. McDills lawyers, however, pushed for the minimum sentence, noting he had never previously been arrested or charged with a crime, court documents show. They also said McDill struggled with a meth addiction and was high on the two occasions when he shared videos depicting child pornography with strangers online. Law enforcement confronted him months later, McDills attorneys wrote, and he turned over passwords to aid in future investigations. Mr. McDill, who has been off drugs and in counseling for the past nine months, is profoundly ashamed of his behavior and deeply remorseful for the pain it has caused, his lawyers wrote. McDills husband divorced him because of his addiction in 2015, according to court documents, the same year he lost his position as an adjunct professor at Napa Valley College. McDill, who earned a doctorate in plant biology in 2009, still had a profile on the colleges website as of Tuesday afternoon. McDill has not worked since leaving the college, his attorneys wrote, and now serves as a full-time caretaker for his mother. Napa Valley College confirmed McDill worked at the school on a part-time basis, but was not rehired after July 2015. A school representative said he did not have any information regarding why McDill ceased to work at the school or whether anyone complained to the school about him. Such complaints are handled by Human Resources and would not be accessible, according to the college. Click the page in the sidebar to read the judgment issued on McDills case. Courtney can be reached at 707-256-2221. You can send her an anonymous tip, and follow her reporting on Twitter and Facebook. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The bitter fight over the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh surely will tarnish the legitimacy of the U.S. Supreme Court. Justices are nominated and opposed because of their ideology, and ultimately their ideology will determine how they vote on crucial issues, such as abortion, affirmative action, gun rights and rights for gays and lesbians. But there is something different about this confirmation battle and the ones of the last few years and it makes me worry about the toll it will take on the Supreme Court. In his angry statement to the Senate Judiciary Committee, Kavanaugh described the inquiry into his alleged sexual assault as a partisan smear campaign. He declared: This whole two-week effort has been a calculated and orchestrated political hit, fueled with apparent pent-up anger about President Trump and the 2016 election, fear that has been unfairly stoked about my judicial record, revenge on behalf of the Clintons and millions of dollars in money from outside left-wing opposition groups. This was echoed by Republican senators including Lindsey Graham. Kavanaugh also communicated this by being openly contemptuous of the Democratic senators, refusing to answer their questions and often treating them rudely. Yet, it is hard to understand Kavanaughs claim. No one not Kavanaugh or any senator has provided the slightest basis for believing that Christine Blasey Ford had partisan motivations for coming forward. Nor could the Senate ignore her accusations. If Kavanaugh is confirmed, that means he will join Justice Clarence Thomas on the court under a cloud of alleged sexual misconduct and under a belief that there was a liberal conspiracy to block his ascension. And these are the individuals who are going to decide whether women continue to have a right to legal abortions and how courts should deal with sex discrimination claims. But the cloud over the courts legitimacy is larger than that. If Kavanaugh is confirmed, a majority of the justices will have been appointed by Republican presidents because Senate Republicans refused to even hold hearings on Merrick Garland. Justice Antonin Scalia died in February 2016, and President Barack Obama nominated Garland to replace him. Garlands nomination was pending for 293 days, the longest period in U.S. history. No one questioned Garlands impeccable qualifications, or even that he was a moderate. Before 2016, 24 times in American history there had been a vacancy in the last year of a presidents term. The Senate confirmed the nominee 21 times and denied confirmation three times. But never before had senators refused to hold a hearing or a vote on a nominee because they hoped that their party would gain control of the presidency in the next election. Rightly, Democrats will always regard this as a stolen seat on the Supreme Court. If Garland had replaced Scalia, replacing Anthony Kennedy would not shift the ideological balance on the Supreme Court. Even then, Republicans were able to put Neil Gorsuch in Scalias seat only by changing longstanding Senate rules and abolishing the filibuster for nominations. The irony is that it is Republicans who profess that justices are impartial umpires and at the same time engage in unprecedented power politics to be sure that there are justices who are sure to vote in a very conservative way on all major issues. While liberals and conservatives both want justices who will vote their way, but the country never has seen anything like what Republicans have done in recent years to gain control of the Supreme Court. It is unclear how it will matter that the court will be perceived as an extension of the Republican party. Maybe it will lead to a crisis of legitimacy for the court as occurred in the mid-1930s. Perhaps at some point, it will lead to open defiance of the courts rulings. Maybe it will cause the Democrats to try and increase the size of the court if they win control of the presidency and Congress in the November 2020 elections. The only thing that is certain is that conservatives will gain control of the court as they have long desired, but they likely have irreparably tarnished the institution in doing so. Erwin Chemerinsky is dean and professor of law at the UC Berkeley School of Law. He wrote this for The Sacramento Bee. As a 34-year resident of Saint Helena, your admonishments in a recent column hit home (Civility in the letters section, Sept. 16). It seems we have, as you so accurately pointed out, lost our sense of civility. Since I believe that much can be learned from what a person has accomplished in their life here is a summary of his Alan Galbraith s education and work experience. Please read what follows: A. Overview: Alan Galbraith was born in Washington, D.C., and grew up in Cambridge, Massachusetts (his dad was a Harvard professor), including college (Harvard 1963). Law school (University of Michigan, 1966) followed college. Alans first California job was a teaching job at Boalt Hall. He then took on a second with California Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA), focused on Indian issues in Northern California. It was in connection with his work for CRLA that he first became familiar with Saint Helena. Alans work took him from time to time from the Bay Area to Lake County. The tunnel of elms made a wonderful impression on him. In 1967-1968, he was a research clerk for the Honorable Stanley Mosk, a justice of the California Supreme Court who received his appointment to the Supreme Court. Alan met his wife Sarah while working for the California Supreme Court. She was clerking for Justice Mathew Tobriner, both as appointees of the first Gov. Brown. Sarah has deep roots in Napa County. On her fathers side, Sarah is both a Dunlap and a Coombs (her fathers name was David Coombs Dunlap). Both families have a long history of civic involvement in Napa County, including representing Napa County in the state Legislature. Sarahs parents retired from the Bay Area in 1978 to a family property in the Coombsville area, east of Napa. As their children were growing up, there were frequent visitors to Napa. The property remains in the family. They placed an easement on the property in favor of the Napa Land Trust years ago to preclude vineyard or other commercial development on the property. Sarah and Alan decided to retire to St. Helena. They began their search for a home in the city in 2003, purchasing their house in January 2005 and moved permanently to Saint Helena on July 15, 2008. B. Family: Alan and Sarah have three children, all married, and six grandchildren. Their son David is a diplomat; daughter Kate is a reporter; daughter Jean is a law professor. All grandchildren love Saint Helena especially the playgrounds and Gotts Roadside Diner. C. Legal career: Alans career was with a law firm (today, Williams & Connolly LLP) in Washington, D.C. He became a partner in 1976 and was with the firm for nearly 40 years. His legal practice was mostly in complex civil litigation, largely in federal courts (both trial and appellate). Alan passed bar examinations in Massachusetts (66), California (67), and Maryland (82). He was admitted to the District of Columbia Bar by motion (69). Over a long career, Alan was admitted to practice in many federal appellate courts, including the Supreme Court (1972.) He worked with well-qualified experts in many fields, especially engineers and financial experts (civil cases), mostly highly skilled partners in major accounting firms. Alans clients provided him with a lifetime of experience in practical business education, especially in proper corporate governance, tax and finance. D. City and county government involvement: In the last 10 years, Alan has dedicated himself to service in city and county government in St. Helena and Napa County. He is now completing his fourth year (second term) as mayor of Saint Helena. Additionally, he has served on the following City and County committees and boards: 1. City Level Positions: Saint Helena Planning Commission (2009-2013), including service as its chairman; General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC); Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Subcommittee of the GPUSC; Affordable Housing Committee; Library Board (Council liaison). 2. County level Positions: Member, Groundwater Resources Advisory Committee (GRAC); director, Napa Valley Transportation Authority (NVTA); director, Napa County Flood Control & Conservation District; chairman, Napa County Grand Jury, 2013-2014. 3. Quick note: Alan as mayor has developed respectful relationships with county and city officials. There is often commonality in our issues, and in a county with issues that more and more involve all of us (such as traffic, housing, impact of tourism), these relationships are of great importance in evaluating our issues not only in our own specific context but in the broader county context. Alan seeks re-election as mayor in the belief that he can continue to contribute to the betterment of our community which includes working with all Napa cities and the county. Perhaps his opponent would care to provide similar information for publication, then each of us can make a better-informed decision as to which candidate would be the best choice for our next mayor. Rick Crebs St. Helena It also does not reflect the views of the Firm of which the Author is working for. Since the inception of this blog, the Author has avoided writing views and opinions of his clients or views and opinions which third parties has paid him to write. The Author has maintained editorial independence since Day One. Any individual or group affected by the opinions and views of the Author can write the author thru mangubat.patricio@gmail.com. Opinions and views expressed in this blog are personal views of the Author and does not involve organisations and companies being serviced by the Author as part of his profession as a Strategic Communications professional. Throughout the years, since Armenias independence in 1991, I have had the unique opportunity of spending hundreds of hours with the countrys three previous Presidents, discussing privately with them Armenias many problems, Armenian-American writer, public activist and publisher of The California Courier, Harut Sassounian noted. He wrote in the article: "I offered them my professional assessments and frequently my criticisms of the way they were running the country. Although the Presidents were not pleased that I was pointing out their shortcomings and mistakes, they understood that my intent was not to disparage them, but to help them improve the living conditions of the population. Ever since the earthquake of 1988, I have been doing charitable work in Armenia and Artsakh, initially as President of the United Armenian Fund (UAF), subsequently the Armenia Artsakh Fund (AAF), and as Vice Chairman of Kirk Kerkorians Lincy Foundation, delivering over $800 million of humanitarian aid to Armenia and Artsakh by the UAF and AAF, and managing $242 million of infrastructure projects funded by Lincy. Despite all the corruption prevailing in Armenia during those years, I fought hard to protect the humanitarian supplies and funds, persistently bringing to the attention of the Presidents the abuses by high-rankling officials, and demanding that they be disciplined or fired. During my 58 trips to Armenia and Artsakh, I saw firsthand the miserable conditions of most people in our homeland, deprived of money, food, medicines, clothing and other basic needs. Seeing the Presidents neglect of the peoples deprivations, I frequently and forcefully brought their dismal situation to the attention of the countrys leadership. I was particularly upset when I heard government officials speaking about Armenia needing investments, not charity. I found such remarks to be callous of the peoples suffering. After each such pronouncement, I confronted these officials explaining the negative effect of their statements. Consequently, I was surprised when Armenias new Prime Minister, Nikol Pashinyan, a man of the people, during his remarks in New York on September 23, 2018, announced that in the context of Armenia-Diaspora relations, work must be encouraged, not charity: Armenians can assist Armenia only with one option: carry out economic activity in Armenia, establish any business, and work. Today, Armenias understanding is the following: It is a country where it is possible to carry out economic activity, establish a business, earn profits, get rich and enrich. Our message to all of you is the following: get rich and enrich. We want Armenia to be known as such a country. Not charitable, but developmental projects must be implemented in Armenia.... To be fair to the Prime Minister, in his speech, he also spoke about many other topics which I agree with whole-heartedly. He has tremendous support both in Armenia and around the world! He has practically eliminated corruption in Armenian society and has represented the voice of the people who had remained voiceless for more than a quarter of a century since independence. However, just as I have told the previous Presidents, I would like to provide the following explanations to the new Prime Minister: 1) I fully support the Prime Ministers initiative that Armenia needs economic investments in order to create jobs and expand exports. By creating jobs, not only the people will have the income to pay for their daily expenses, but the government will also have the tax revenues to support the countrys and populations multiple needs. 2) However, the Prime Ministers urging that work must be encouraged, not charity, would deprive hundreds of thousands of poor people of their basic necessities. Investments take time to trickle down to the people and produce results. In the meantime, if charitable efforts are discouraged, many poor people will not survive! 3) Not all Diaspora Armenians can invest in the Armenian Republic. There are dozens of charitable organizations which by law cannot get involved in economic activities, as they can only do charity. Since the earthquake and Armenias independence, Armenian and international charities have provided a large amount of aid to Armenia and Artsakh. If it were not for this humanitarian assistance, the standard of living would have been even lower, jeopardizing the survival of many Armenians. By discouraging charity, we are simply asking charitable organizations not to help the needy people of Armenia. 4) Armenian governments so far have been unable to meet the many needs of their population due to lack of money. Diasporas charitable organizations have provided the aid that the government could not. If there were no charitable assistance in Armenia ever since independence, the peoples many needs would not have been taken care of and Armenia would have been a poorer country! 5) Even if the Diaspora would start investing in Armenia today, that does not mean that the influx of new funds would take care of all the needs of the people overnight. Certainly, a large number of people would eventually be employed, but many others, such as the elderly, would still be left with hardly any income from their negligible pensions. Those who are unaware of the extent of appalling poverty in Armenia should read the Guardian newspapers Sept. 29, 2018 article by Nick Danziger, titled: Its better to die: the struggle to survive poverty in Armenia. 6) There is the mistaken notion that if there were many investments in Armenia, there would be no need for charity. In almost all countries, even in the most advanced ones, there are hundreds of charitable organizations that tend to the needs of the poor people. In the United States alone, billions of dollars are provided annually to needy individuals and families by charitable organizations. If the Americans require charity, Armenians would certainly need charitable assistance for a long time to come! Paradoxically, Prime Minister Pashinyans wife, Anna Hakopyan, recently launched her own charitable organization My Step Foundation to support educational, healthcare, social and cultural projects. She is doing whats absolutely necessary because the people of Armenia desperately need help!" US conducts joint drills with Ukraine, Turkey and Romania in the Black Sea US authorities unseal oil reserves to stabilize market prices UNICEF reports increase in number of child marriages in Afghanistan COAF, US Embassy, Armenia's ministry sign three-year Memorandum of Understanding Search work to find bodies of those killed in Artsakh suspended since October 18 itizen who threw a grenade near Shushi is in Artsakh Investigative Committee Armenian Defense Ministry: Azerbaijanis opened fire on Armenian positions in the direction of Verin Shorzha Azerbaijan says three people injured due to explosives incident Bloomberg: US authorities rejected Intel's proposal to increase chip production in China Stepanakert-Berdzor road is temporarily closed US and Japan begin consultations to solve the problem of overproduction of steel Russia creates unified satellite communication system for UAVs Artsakh NSS: No injured among Artsakh citizens 1,251 new cases of coronavirus infection registered in Armenia per day Celebrities ask Biden to give pardoned turkeys for Thanksgiving to animal rights activists Lavrov, Shoygu discuss situation in Karabakh with French counterparts Armenia PM to send High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs to Russia on business trip Explosion takes place in mosque in Afghanistan, leaving 15 injured Armenia Parliament Deputy Speaker meets with Karabakh Security Council Secretary and parliamentarians Gunshots heard in computer game room in Yerevan RFE/RL Armenian Service: Iranian drivers complain that new Tatev-Aghavni road is narrow for trucks EU, UNDP launch Mayors for Economic Growth Program in Armenia Armenia Deputy PM: We support adoption of documents for further enhancement of defensibility of CIS countries Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin says COVID-19 vaccination does not present spiritual danger Armenia Deputy PM meets with representatives of Asian Development Bank Monument to officers of Russian helicopter downed in 2020 unveiled during ceremony in Armenia's Yeraskh Armenia Kotayk Province's general jurisdiction court has new judge Armenia ruling party MP appointed Ambassador to Spain NEWS.am daily digest: 12.11.21 Armenia Justice Ministry, UNDP to cooperate for constitutional reforms and in anti-corruption field Turkey, Qatar agree to strengthen military cooperation Armenia defense minister, India Ambassador discuss cooperation in defense sector Armenia has new Ambassador to Germany Armenia appellate court releases ex-MP from custody Armenia economy minister meets with Charge dAffaires of Georgia 12-year-old Armenian boy's 4 fingers cut, undergoes 10-hour surgery Armenia Deputy PM opposes Azerbaijani premier, says Karabakh conflict can't be resolved by force Dollar continues going down in Armenia Lithuania ambassador to parliament speaker: Relations with Armenia are priorities of our country Millions of Austrians not vaccinated against COVID-19 may be quarantined Georgian and Turkish border guards conducting joint military exercises in Javakhk Charles Michel thanks Turkey for prohibiting citizens of Iraq, Syria and Yemen from flying to Belarus Myanmar court sentences US journalist to 11 years in jail Armenia official: Azerbaijan continues to torpedo implementation of agreements reached Opposition MP to Armenia minister: Who will perform the duties of the mayor of Goris? Man in photo died from railway accident in Russia, there is suspicion that he was from Armenia's Armavir Province Armenia ex-deputy defense minister: Pashinyan is lying when he says there is no logic of corridor Video showing another act of vandalism of Azerbaijanis in Karabakh disseminated on social networks Armenia, Palestine FMs discuss Armenian heritage in Holy Land Azerbaijan says it is ready to sign with Armenia peace agreement recognizing territorial integrity Armenia official: We are building many roads in Syunik Province Karabakh state minister delivers lecture at Columbia University in New York Ukraine delegation to visit Armenia next week Armenia FM in Paris, meets with French Armenian figures (PHOTOS) Armenia to host Eurasian Intergovernmental Council session 80 new cases of coronavirus reported in Artsakh Erdogan says 'Greece has turned into a U.S. military base' Sweden lifting entry ban for Armenia citizens fully vaccinated against Covid Russia peacekeepers escort more than 8,000 traveling vehicles in Karabakh in 1 year 1,309 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia 11 foreign nationals living illegally in Armenia are found in downtown Yerevan hotels Aram Yacoubian is on Varietys Hollywoods New Leaders of 2021 list Biden, Xi expected to hold virtual summit on November 15 Newspaper: Process of shaking up Armenia law enforcement system to begin Newspaper: Armenia cargo transportation increases FM to UNESCO head: Preventive steps against Azerbaijan destruction of Armenian heritage are simply imperative Armenia Security Council chief: No logic to using Goris-Kapan motorway Armenia Security Council secretary: Political decision is needed if agreement is reached on logic of unblocking roads FM: There are numerous cases of Azerbaijans deliberate destruction of Armenian cultural, religious heritage Armenia PM: Security is our most vulnerable place today Armenian Church Diocese in Russia supports Finnish MP who is charged with offending reps of sexual minorities Women of Artsakh organize meeting with Russian peacekeeping troops' commander US Senate Armed Services Committee to consider 3 key amendments, including cutting off aid to Azerbaijan Armen Sarkissian: I consider any encroachment on Armenia's borders inadmissible and unacceptable Russian analyst says deployment of border and customs checkpoints in Lachin not ruled out UN representatives provide humanitarian aid to immigrants on Polish border U.S. security advisor: Rivalry with China in Pacific need not lead to new Cold War UAE, Bahrain, Israel and US conducting maritime security exercise in Red Sea Opposition 'With Honor' faction MP: Ruling party is implementing Baku's policy in Armenia Armenia finance minister receives experts of Russian Financial Research Institute Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group NEWS.am daily digest: 11.11.21 Opposition 'With Honor' Alliance: We have a few questions for the Armenian premier Dollar drops somewhat in Armenia Deputy Mayor of Armenia's Goris Menua Hovsepyan voluntarily going to penitentiary institution to be arrested EU remains committed to promoting peaceful, prosperous South Caucasus Armenia MFA: Mirzoyan-Bayramov meeting held in Paris with participation of OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs Azerbaijan FM continues developing Zangezur corridor concept Court rules to arrest Deputy Mayor of Armenia's Goris Menua Hovsepyan Armenia government allocates over $1 mln to repair Yerevan-Meghri road and two more roads Flights to and from Yerevan and Kapan to be launched on January 20, 2022 Armenia Police: 33 citizens apprehended near government building Armenia Ombudsman: Perhaps Azerbaijan will be deprived of jurisdiction over the motorway after delimitation Armenia PM: Coronavirus situation is somewhat stable 'Armenia' Alliance: Azerbaijan is the one making decisions instead of Armenian PM, we will not put up with this Ambassador to PM Pashinyan: Italy is interested in implementing new investment programs with Armenia Three-year working plan for Armenia-Russia interparliamentary committee discussed during consultation Armenia's Meghri has new mayor Armenia Security Council secretary: Citizens may be able to travel on Goris-Kapan motorway for a toll Quarantine regime extended in Armenia until June 20, 2022 YEREVAN. We have not made any arrangement yesterday, and we listened to information as to what the Prime Minister is going to do, what his intentions are. Vice President of the National Assembly (NA), Mikayel Melkumyan, who is also a member of the NA Tsarukyan Factionwhich is supported by the Prosperous Armenia Party (PAP), on Wednesday, told the above-said to reporters in parliament. In his words, arguments and counter-arguments were discussed during Tuesday evenings talk at the NA between several factions and the PM, and the government stuck to its view that the snap parliamentary election shall be held in December. When asked whether there was a view that they do not nominate a candidate for PM once incumbent Nikol Pashinyan resigns, Melkumyan responded: No arrangement was made. (). We [only] have agreed to continue [the talks]. To the reminder that PM Pashinyan on Tuesday noted that the political forces have verbally said that they will not nominate a candidate for PM, the PAP member said they did not discuss that matter at the party, and there is no final decision on any matter yet. As reported earlier, the NA on Tuesday passed the controversial bill on making amendments to the NA Rules of Procedure. But as per Prime Minister Pashinyan and the NA Way Out (Yelk) Faction, this proposed law will enable to prevent the holding of a snap parliamentary election once the PM resigns from office. The former ruling Republican Party of Armenia, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Dashnaktsutyun Party, and the Prosperous Armenia Party (PAP)-supported Tsarukyan factions in parliament have voted for this bill. Subsequently, and upon the call by the PM, thousands of people blocked the NA building, from Tuesday night to early Wednesday morning. As a result, the deputies were stranded in the parliament building over night. PM Nikol Pashinyan on Wednesday will continue his talks with the NA political forces, and in connection with conducting a snap parliamentary election in Armenia. Armenia PM: Lawmakers said they would not nominate candidate for PM YEREVAN. Yesterday we were in the office of National Assembly (NA) President Ara Babloyan for several hours, and there we discussed the situationin a very quiet, very calm, friendly, and warm atmosphere. Edmon Marukyan, a member of the NA Way Out (Yelk) Faction, on Wednesday told the aforesaid to reporters in parliament. In his words, during this talk Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan noted that he plans to resign in several days, after 14 days of which the NA shall not elect a new PM, whereupon the parliament shall be dissolved, and a snap NA election shall be conducted in Armenia in December. As per Marukyan, the other parliamentary forces, in turn, noted that even though they are for a snap election, they want it to be held in May 2019. There was no consensus, the MP added. But there is an arrangement that the [respective] contacts continue. As for Pashinyans remarks that there was a verbal statement that the NA political forces will not nominate a candidate for PM, Marukyan said it was stressed that it is clear that they will not nominate a candidate, but the snap election should be conducted next May. In the Yelk faction MPs words, it seems to him that there is no room for concessions, and therefore the election will take place in December. Also, Edmon Marukyan expressed the confidence that there is no possibility of a counterrevolution in Armenia, and there is no likelihood of nominating another candidatebut incumbent Pashinyanfor PM. As reported earlier, the NA on Tuesday passed the controversial bill on making amendments to the NA Rules of Procedure. But as per Prime Minister Pashinyan and the NA Way Out (Yelk) Faction, this proposed law will enable to prevent the holding of a snap parliamentary election once the PM resigns from office. The former ruling Republican Party of Armenia, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Dashnaktsutyun Party, and the Prosperous Armenia Party (PAP)-supported Tsarukyan factions in parliament have voted for this bill. Subsequently, and upon the call by the PM, thousands of people blocked the NA building, from Tuesday night to early Wednesday morning. As a result, the deputies were stranded in the parliament building over night. PM Nikol Pashinyan on Wednesday will continue his talks with the NA political forces, and in connection with conducting a snap parliamentary election in Armenia. Armenia PM: Lawmakers said they would not nominate candidate for PM The situation aggravated in Yerevan yesterday after Armenian lawmakers adopted the controversial bill on making amendments to the Armenian parliaments Rules of Procedure. As as per Prime Minister Pashinyan and the NA Way Out (Yelk) Faction, this proposed law will enable to prevent the holding of a snap parliamentary election once the PM resigns from office. The former ruling Republican Party of Armenia, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Dashnaktsutyun Party, and the Prosperous Armenia Party (PAP)-supported Tsarukyan factions in parliament have voted for this bill. Subsequently, and upon the call by the PM, thousands of people blocked the parliament building, from Tuesday night to early Wednesday morning. As a result, the deputies were stranded in the parliament building over night. Pashinyan said the ministers and governors representing ARF and Prosperous Armenia party will be dismissed. He entered the parliament late on Tuesday evening to hold talks with the parliamentary forces which lasted two hours. However, the parties seem not to have made an agreement. Pashinyan will continue his talks with the parliamentary political forces, and in connection with conducting a snap parliamentary election in Armenia. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian has signed executive orders, pursuant to which the six ministers representing the Prosperous Armenia Party (PAP) and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Dashnaktsutyun Party have been dismissed. During Tuesday nights rally in capital city Yerevan, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced that he had proposed to the President to dismiss these ministers as well as all provincial governors representing the PAP and the ARF. Prior to his announcement ARF Dashnaktsutyun said they are recalling their ministers. A memorial service for the legendary Charles Aznavour will be held on Friday at Les Invalides in Paris. French Ambassador to Armenia Jonathan Lacote led the march in memory of Charles Aznavour on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan said he would leave for France to participate in the memorial events to be held on October 5-6. A meeting between Armenian and Azerbaijani foreign ministers is planned by the end of this year, Armenian Foreign MInistry's spokesperson said. A meeting of foreign ministers is likely to be held by the end of this year, Tigran Balayan said during a briefing on Tuesday. Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan and his Azerbaijani counterpart Elmar Mammadyarov met in September on the margins of the UN General Assembly in New York. A sign for Artsakh Avenue was unveil Tuesday morning during a street naming ceremony hosted by the city of Glendale. The event brought together City Council members, state Senator Anthony Portantino and Robert Avetisyan, a U.S. representative for Artsakh were present. YEREVAN. - The faction of the Republican Party of Armenia issued a statement in connection with the internal political events in the republic. The statement, in particular, notes that the purpose of the bill amending and supplementing the National Assembly regulations adopted by the parliament was to ensure the natural course of activities of the parliament in cases when quorum cannot be provided due to an emergency or artificial obstacles for the deputies. The proposed procedure is simple. The meeting is suspended until the prerequisites for the normal course of the meeting are restored. Talking about the unconstitutionality of the project is a manipulation, since the project in no way interrupts, does not cancel, does not change any constitutional deadlines, but merely determines the provisions of the regulations relating to the activities of the National Assembly,the statement says. The RPA insists that despite speculations the bill fully complies with the Constitution, however, yesterday, upon the call of the Prime Minister, voting on the bill was postponed so as not to interfere with the negotiations. After the voting was postponed, the Prime Minister, violating the agreement on negotiations, unexpectedly announced the plans to hold of extraordinary parliamentary elections in December, which forced us to convene an extraordinary meeting and vote on the draft law, the statement said. The statement adds that the PM responded to the adoption of the bill by organizing a mass rally in the protected area of the National Assembly, thus besieging the National Assembly. The Prime Ministers determination of the timing of extraordinary parliamentary elections in December is not due to the draft law, but was already decided by him. A simple evidence of this is that during the meeting we were proposed options for suspending the law, which were rejected, the statement says. The RPA faction said Pashinyan came to the parliament only to present an ultimatum with his only goal being to inform about the decision. Under these conditions, the RPA faction did not give any consent or promise to the Prime Minister. The RPA faction continues to believe that it is necessary to implement the program for holding elections in May-June 2019 that was set in the governments program and announced in the previous statements by the prime minister, after reforming the Electoral Code and giving reasonable time for political forces to get ready. In parallel with these processes, we note the importance of the smooth functioning of the National Assembly within the framework of the Constitution and law. We consider unacceptable any pressure on the National Assembly, at the same time stressing the need and the possibility of resolving the situation politically,the statement reads. written by Dan Richman How Microsoft is cutting through the noise to create a more useful, beautiful 'sound world' You might never have thought about the sounds your computer emits when an email arrives, your battery runs low or a meeting reminder pops up on your screen. Matthew Bennett has. A lot. Bennett personally composed, performed and digitally manipulated more than 400 versions of the Windows 10 calendar alert sound before choosing the perfect one. "That's just how long it took to get it right," Bennett said with a shrug during a recent visit to his Redmond, Washington sound studio. The ambiently lit, sound-damped room features a mixer, multiple high-end studio monitors and large LCD screens, and, front and center, a multi-octave synthesizer keyboard. As audio creative director for a large portfolio of Microsoft software and devices, Bennett has played a key role in the company's sound design for 15 years. He has strong opinions and well-developed philosophies about sound, as well as a highly specialized vocabulary to discuss it. 2:06 Video: How I composed the Windows 10 calendar alert Summarizing his role, he reflected, "Our responsibility to customers is, first, do no harm no annoying audio! Second, make it functional, and third, make it beautiful. Beauty and function go hand in hand. The more beautiful the design, the better it will support the experiences were creating." The Windows 10 family of sounds took many months to perfect, as he collaborated closely with key members of his team, including visual designers, researchers, project managers and engineers. "We iterate a lot to be sure every sound is just right," he said. Listen to the Windows calendar alert sound: Your browser does not support the audio element. A composer of classical and improvised music who has done extensive research on non-Western music cultures, Bennett carried out Ph.D. work in ethnomusicology (the anthropology of music) at the University of Washington, before leaving the program to accept his first full-time position at Microsoft. After a five-year stint, he struck out to form his own agency, and for the next decade devoted himself to creating scores for film and television, as well as brand sound design for Fortune 500 companies. But he eventually became dissatisfied with the music he was creating. Seeking new inspiration, he quit composing to study medieval chant and the musical cultures of West Africa, India, the Middle East and Indonesia. When he gradually resumed composing, his goal was to create a personal musical language "a sound world that I could live with," as he describes it. These examples show the results. Once back at Microsoft, Bennett dug in hard. Now his work can be heard not only throughout the Windows platform, but also in the Xbox operating system and products including Office, Surface, Cortana and Skype. Having a strong sound design philosophy and creative point of view at the center is intended to help unify the soundscape of Microsoft products, just as the company's user-interface design principles attempt to create a company-wide visual and functional continuity among its products. We want to orchestrate harmony across devices and senses. Beyond that, Microsoft's Fluent Sound and Sensory Design development environment seeks to influence sound design in the technology industry more broadly. "We use sound to shape the rhythm and emotional texture of the user experience," Bennett said. "Sound is an element that's integrated with other sensory experiences like touch, texture and movement. We're shifting the way we think about sound design at Microsoft, and hopefully the industry at large. Our goal is to help orchestrate harmony across devices and senses." Rick Senechal, a Microsoft media solutions architect, has worked with Bennett for 20 years. Senechal directs a worldwide music service for company teams and agencies. Each year the service provides 4,000 songs for events, videos, podcasts and products. Bennett takes his time and is extremely deliberate, Senechal said. "Matthew is the most focused person I've ever worked with," he said. "He takes a long, in-depth view of his craft and really thinks things through. He's not just making sounds and saying, 'Oh, that sounds good.' There's a logic and intelligence behind the sounds and textures he creates." Bennett is quick to declare what Microsoft sounds are not. There's a logic and intelligence behind the sounds and textures he creates. "We're not sound effects, game sounds, generic sounds (beeps and bloops), novelty sounds (dogs and fog horns), futuristic sounds, wall-to-wall music or alarms," he said. "Our product sounds are not live musicians or sampled bits of real instruments, like a piano or guitar or analog synthesizer, because those evoke specific musical styles and emotional memory, which is very subjective between individuals and across cultures. Those design approaches dont make sense for the kinds of modern digital experiences our teams are creating. Our goal is to develop a sound design language that feels unique and authentic and deeply integrated with our products and devices." Sounds in older versions of Windows were quite different from those in Windows 10, Bennett noted. For one thing, there were a lot more of them. Triumphant sounds denoting a successful boot-up "aren't necessary anymore," he said. "We no longer need to celebrate the fact that our devices are turned on. That's something we can take for granted at this point." Many modern product sounds tend to be shorter. Earlier sounds, such as the shutdown signal in Windows NT Workstation 4.0 (1996), lasted 8 seconds interminable by today's standards, which call for less intrusive sounds measured in milliseconds (1/1,000 of a second). And, like start-up sounds, shut-down sounds are a thing of the past, deemed just another needless contributor to tech-induced noise pollution. The start-up sound in Windows NT Workstation 5 (2000), nearly 12 seconds long, sounded like a squadron of fighter jets taking off, followed by twinkling marimbas. Today's sounds are "more deeply integrated with the product and as calm, quiet and non-intrusive as possible," Bennett said. Gone are sounds that specialists call skeuomorphic those that replicate their real-world counterparts, like a piece of paper being crumpled up when a document is deleted or the clacking of 19th century, mechanical typewriter keys denoting on-screen keystrokes. Matthew Bennett at Microsoft Production Studios with audio engineer Dan Charette. "In earlier stages, those sounds helped people get familiar with technology, but we don't need them anymore. They no longer add to the experience, and they tend to feel more like clutter now," Bennett said. "For many years now, the visual design world has been reducing clutter and using more space," he observed. "Now sound is starting doing the same." Windows 7 had about 40 sounds. Windows 10 has about eight, though legacy sounds are included with the OS to ensure backwards compatibility, he said. "When I started, there were seven different system error sounds. They had accrued over years and no one knew what they meant. There were no clear guidelines for partners or for ourselves. We got rid of the whole set and replaced them with two much more focused sounds one gentle background notification and another more urgent sound." One design technique Bennett has developed involves the extensive recording and comparison of vocal contours the melodic and rhythmic aspects of speech from many different languages, to identify universal patterns that can help create a sound design language. For example, a statement that means "Ready to go?" can have a very similar pitch pattern when spoken in English, French, Japanese, Mandarin, Spanish or Russian. It's basically "up, down, and a small leap," he says. Bennett took that particular vocal contour and replicated it musically, so that it can be heard underlying the 2.5-second Windows 10 calendar alert prompt. This technique has shaped the entire set of Windows 10 sounds. "The language contours are deeply integrated, not intended to be heard literally, or consciously," he said. "They should just be felt intuitively to create an emotional connection that feels natural, instinctive." Bennett believes the best operating system sounds should be deeply integrated with the events they support. For example, texting is more time-sensitive than emailing, so the Windows 10 text messaging sound "pulls you forward a bit and is a little more alertful," he said. For a new email, "you still want to know something's come in, but the sound pulls back a bit. Its a little more relaxed." Does he call his creations "music"? We design sound with silence in mind. "In the broadest sense, yes. I would describe them as paramusical," he said. "They utilize musical elements rhythm, melody and harmony to make sounds that feel beautiful, but they should never call attention to themselves as a piece of music," he said. Musical concepts certainly play a major role in Bennett's design thinking. "The error-message tone uses a minor 9th interval, which is definitely a little dissonant and says, 'You really need to pay attention to this,'" he said. While more tech companies are now employing audio directors like Bennett, "as a discipline, sound design still lags a little behind hardware and visual design," he said. "We traditionally havent been deeply integrated into product design teams, aside from games. Microsoft was one of the first companies to realize the value of embedding sound designers with product teams." In addition to influencing Microsoft and technology design more broadly, Bennett thinks the discipline of sound design has an obligation to the world at large. The New York Times, in a Feb. 9, 2018 story, noted the cacophony produced by today's ubiquitous electronic devices, asserting that "bombastic, attention-grabbing inorganic noises are become the norm [and] disruptive sonic alerts trigger Pavlovian feedback." Bennett hears that. "There are so many device sounds in our environment now. Windows sounds alone are heard hundreds of millions of times a day around the world," he said. "That's a lot of sound affecting a lot of lives. Even if they are relatively short, every sound has an emotional impact, whether were aware of it or not. We have a responsibility to approach this as a system and to help create an audio ecology that supports healthy relationships between people and technology." The World Health Organization has recognized that unexpected loud sounds can cause stress and anxiety which are detrimental to public health, and that unnecessary sounds and excessive volume are just another form of pollution. "In a rainforest, there's an incredible amount of information being communicated through sound, with many layers in motion simultaneously birds, insects, trees, plants, water and wind. And its all very intelligible because the acoustic design of a rainforest has evolved to be naturally orchestrated, with a deep harmony that lets all the layers breathe and function together. Thats a powerful metaphor for how we should be designing sound." Toward the end of our conversation, I made a confession to Matthew: I haven't operated my Windows computer with the sounds turned on since, oh, about 1990. I found them unnecessary and even irritating. I asked him what I'd been missing whether there is some subtle aspect of the OS that is being lost on me. He answered, "The right sounds at the right time, can support a more efficient and more pleasant user experience. They can convey important information and improve the rhythm and flow of attention, which is really our most important resource. They can convey crucial information when were away from a screen. They can improve the way our technology feels. We want people to know it's OK to turn your sounds back on. Our modern approach to sound design is deeply respectful. We're not going to boot up loudly in a meeting or in the library, were not going to disturb the people around you. It's not going to be random noise. It's going to be a small set of beautiful sounds that are carefully curated to communicate important information very efficiently and to sit well in your environment." A Gentle Reminder Matthew Bennett on creating the Windows 10 calendar alert sound A lot of people feel anxiety over their calendar sounds, because it means there's something they have to do. Some of them say it's like responding to fire alarms all day. We needed something that was alertful but not anxiety-producing. And we wanted to get the right amount of optimism and energy, pulling the user forward to their next activity, but with the feeling of a calm, supportive friend. This sound is meant to be heard at lower volumes and to be more felt than heard. It has a beginning, middle and end. If you listen closely, you'll hear that it's a rhythm of seven equal pulses. It starts low and slow, with three pulses that are designed to be felt more than heard. And it lasts a long time for a user-interface sound 2.5 seconds but at normal volume you only really hear part of the sound because those first three tones are so soft. They're like a breath, a musical pick-up, to let you know something is about to happen. Then the volume swells a bit, it blooms, to make the middle section more audible. And at the end there's a long reverb tail, falling off, that feels very transparent and light but can also improve audibility in certain loud contexts or when users are away from their device. So it's long sound, but very open. Its definitely not alarming. It feels lightweight and pleasant and has a nice emotional texture. There's also a subtle left-to-right movement in the sound field that you can hear through headphones or decent speakers, like those on a good laptop to tablet. There are foreground and background layers baked into the finished sound. The foreground is digitally sculpted plucks and tuned percussion. The textures sound familiar but they arent real-world instruments. There's a triplet feel to this sound and to a lot of the others in Windows 10. Over the years, the sounds that usually feel the most fluid, and that can balance the right qualities of energy and calmness, have tended to be resolved to an underlying triplet rhythm. So that pulse, that rhythmic substructure, has become part of our DNA. We want to sound organic, and integral. That means we definitely dont want the sounds to feel like theyve been programmed on a computer. But we also don't want to sound like a human being performing a little piece of music inside your device. So we resolve to a subtle temporal grid, to feel a little machine-like, while still keeping a little soulfulness. Originally published on 7/28/2018 / Photos by Brian Smale / Microsoft Best-selling Malaysian author to share tricks for zero-cost marketing through Facebook by Christi Mathis CARBONDALE, Ill. Marketing your product or business doesnt have to cost a fortune best-selling Malaysian author Marcus Teoh is coming to Southern Illinois University Carbondale to provide insight on how to do it for free. Teoh will present Zero Budget Facebook Marketing at 7 p.m., Oct. 9 in the Student Center auditorium. The presentation is free and students, faculty, staff, business people and public are all welcome. Teoh shares experience as marketing trainer and author Teoh is the author of Now or Never How to Start a Business with Only RM199. The R199 is equivalent to about $50 in the United States. The book detailing how to start a business on a shoestring has earned considerable fame and sales. Teoh will focus on how entrepreneurs can utilize their personal Facebook accounts to generate business and revenue. Hell share Facebook marketing strategies, along with tactics entrepreneurs can use to capitalize on their network of friends to generate business. Hes used the techniques successfully himself. Utilizing his personal Facebook account, Teoh was able to boost his book to bestseller status without spending a dollar on advertising. Teohs book a best-seller and award-nominee The book spent 21 weeks on the Top Ten Bestseller List for MPH Bookstore, Malaysias largest English bookstore chain. It was also one of just 10 books chosen as the MPH Best Business Nominees 2017. The list includes books by such other notable business authors as Richard Branson, Jack Ma and Tony Robbins. Clients are translating techniques into success Teoh has assisted numerous business clients in putting his techniques to the test. Clients such as Zhulian Berhad, Hai-O Marketing, IQI Properties and Parkland Group have seen a 5 to 10 percent increase in leads generated by using Facebook engagement rather than buying advertising. A graduate of the University of Missouri Kansas City, Teoh worked for a pair of software companies before becoming a full-time entrepreneur in 2010. His ventures include selling handbags for high-end American companies. He has also shared his passion for helping students and entrepreneurs as an entrepreneurship development lecturer in Malaysia, helping them operate a real business. The Saluki Entrepreneur Corps, a registered student organization at SIU, is coordinating Teohs campus appearance. With food safety and quality a continual topic of importance, researcher finds unique ways to boost and protect strawberry crops by Hannah Erickson CARBONDALE, Ill. Food production continues to be an important topic of discussion, but so does food safety. Thats why Ruplal Choudhary, bioprocess engineer and associate professor of plant, soil and agricultural systems at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, is addressing both topics in a small, but very important fruit: strawberries. The United States is the largest producer of strawberries in the world, with the average American consuming nearly 8 pounds of strawberries per year. Of the total strawberry production, 81 percent comes from fresh markets, valuing in at about $2.6 billion. But as one of the most susceptible foods prone to damage and spoilage, growers and sellers continually struggle with food safety and quality production. Following several years of berry research, Choudhary is now completing a three-year study funded by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Services and Illinois Department of Agriculture, to find healthful ways to increase strawberry production. Improving yield and growth of strawberries As a post-harvest researcher, Choudhary looks for specific ways to improve the crops growth and development. To do this, he imported and experimented with unique deep-sea ocean minerals from Taiwan. [The ocean minerals] are considered rich in organic minerals and can improve the nutrients in soil for better yield and growth of strawberries, Choudhary said. As a unique study, the results were found to significantly improve the yield and the quality of the strawberries. Nobody had tried this with strawberries. We tried, and we found that it works, Choudhary said. The team tested the strawberries with the ocean minerals while simultaneously examining the use of healthy bacteria at the root level of the strawberries. This bacteria worked to convert available nitrogen into something useful for the soil and plant, Choudhary explained. The ocean mineral and bio-inoculant procedure were combined to find the best key for success. The ocean mineral is improving the yield, but the bio-inoculants improves the quality, so they work together, Choudhary said. Coating materials may improve food-safety Because of the constant awareness of food safety concerns, Choudhary is also looking to see if his work has caused any problematic molecular symptoms to the strawberries. He is working on an overlapping study that carefully watches for any signs of resulting problems from the added minerals. So far in the ocean-mineral trial we have tested, we havent found any difference between the ocean-mineral treated [crops], as opposed to non-treated crops, Choudhary said. They look normal. Choudhary has also spent considerable time studying coating materials that improve the strawberries shelf-life and health. This coating material works to prevent growth of fungal and bacterial pathogens on the berries, thus preserving the food safety and quality. Assisting local growers Choudhary has several goals for the research, but one of the main purposes is to assist local growers with increased production and quality. While local berries are sweet, they tend to have a short shelf-life and are prone to spoilage. This negatively impacts the distribution and profit for local growers. We have also done some outreach, invited different growers in the region to see different field crops and how we cover the crops in the fall, and in the spring when they are growing, Choudhary said. While the strawberry research was done on local, Southern Illinois crops, Choudhary believes the results will translate to other regions as well, providing for some differences depending on the variety of berry. Choudhary has published his research in a variety of journals, as well as presenting at conferences, such as the Institute of Food Technologists and the International Association of Food Protection. Choudhary plans to continue his strawberry research, with funding still available until 2021. Members of the Southern Illinois University Carbondale steel bridge team compete in the Midcontinent Student Conference of the American Society of Civil Engineers, hosted by SIU in April. (Photo by Steve Buhman) SIU named to host 2019 national engineering competition by Tim Crosby CARBONDALE, Ill. Engineers-in-training from around the country will descend on Southern Illinois University Carbondale this spring for a national competition that challenges bridge designers seeking the ultimate in strength and efficiency. The American Institute of Steel Construction has announced SIU as the host for the 2019 national finals for its Student Steel Bridge Competition. The event is May 31-June 1, with about 40 teams and 600 to 700 participants from all over the nation. Top regional competition from throughout the nation will qualify to compete. It is always an honor to be selected to host a national conference or competition. Such activities bring national recognition to the quality of our civil engineering program, our college and university, said John Warwick, dean of the College of Engineering. Steady growth in national student competition The Student Steel Bridge Competition was first held in 1987 as a competition of three schools in Michigan, said Christina Harber, who is helping organize the competition on behalf of its sponsor, the American Institute of Steel Construction. That number grew to 13 schools by 1992, when the first national competition was held. Since those early days, the competition has grown, with 42 schools participating in the finals this year. SIU Carbondale hosted regional contest earlier this year This past April, SIU hosted the Midcontinent Student Conference of the American Society of Civil Engineers, which included the AISC regional steel bridge contest, among others. SIU engineering teams won top spot in both the steel bridge and concrete canoe competitions the first time SIU teams won first in both competitions. About 16 teams attended that event, with the university receiving many compliments on how smoothly it went. Harber said SIU students approached her during that competition, inquiring about hosting the national competition for the steel bridge portion. The Student Steel Bridge Competition is one of our most important programs with the national finals as one of our largest events, Harber said. SIU has the experience, enthusiasm and support from students, the department, alumni and the community to make this a remarkable event and an outstanding experience for the students. Opportunity to showcase SIU Carbondales programs Sanjeev Kumar, chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, said the competition is one of the largest in which engineering students participate. An invitation to host this event demonstrates that SIU is a comprehensive university with the infrastructure needed to host such an event, and the confidence that AISC has in our students ability, Kumar said. This is an exceptional opportunity for us to showcase the Saluki Country and Saluki hospitality to the national audience. I have full confidence in our students to make this event even more successful than the regional. Warwick said 2019 will mark the first time the American Institute of Steel Construction is organizing the event. It is therefore a special honor to be recognized for our past performance and to know that we will now be setting expectations for future hosting of this high-profile event, he said. (Bloomberg) -- A tycoon turned politician who opposes Thailands military government has criticized its $5.6 billion high-speed rail project with China because hyperloop technology offers a more modern alternative. An option such as Richard Bransons Virgin Hyperloop One -- which is working on building networks of pods traveling at airplane-like speeds -- is better for Thailand as it would help the nation to be a technological leader, according to Future Forward Party head Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit. If you invest in high-speed trains, all you do is import everything from abroad, whereas with the hyperloop theres an opportunity to build the industry in Thailand if you move first, Thanathorn said in an interview on Monday. The military government in power since a coup more than four years ago has prioritized high-speed rail under a 2 trillion baht ($62 billion) transport action plan it describes as the biggest such advance for Thailand in two decades. The China project is the first part of a rail line that would eventually run to Laos. Thanathorn argued that hyperloop technology can create more local jobs, apart from being environmentally friendlier and cheaper to build. It would also be part of a balancing act so that Thailand isnt reliant on China, he said in the interview in Bangkok. "Many people said that this is just a dream," he said. "But its our duty to propose new ideas. We need to dream big to get Thailand out of the middle-income trap." Thailands military government has focused on major transport projects under an effort to catalyze investment and bolster the economy. Criticism of its policies has begun to intensify ahead of a long-delayed general election now expected in late February next year. Future Forward is one of a number of new parties formed ahead of the poll. Sansern Kaewkamnerd, a government spokesman, couldnt be immediately reached for comment. A few firms and investors have been plowing money into the race for the first working hyperloop system since futurist and billionaire Elon Musk first theorized a model in 2013. Unlike bullet trains, the technology has yet to be deployed for everyday use. Story continues Hyperloop One, which uses magnetic levitation and low-pressure tubes, has been testing in Nevada with speeds reaching 240 miles an hour, and is planning three production systems in service by 2021, according to its website. (Updates with more from Thanathorn in the sixth paragraph.) To contact the reporter on this story: Siraphob Thanthong-Knight in Bangkok at rthanthongkn@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Sunil Jagtiani at sjagtiani@bloomberg.net, Ruth Pollard 2018 Bloomberg L.P. Saudi Arabia will pump 10.7 million bpd of oil in October and will slightly raise this level in November, Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said at an energy forum in Moscow on Wednesday. The comments by the key oilman in OPECs largest producer and exporter come just a few days after Brent Crude prices hit earlier this week $85 a barrela four-year highamid concerns that OPEC and allies are not doing enough to offset declining Iranian oil exports and plunging Venezuelan production. Saudi Arabia is currently pumping 10.7 million bpd, al-Falih said today. This is just shy of the Kingdoms all-time high production of 10.72 million bpd, set in November 2016, just before OPEC and its Russia-led non-OPEC allies started the production cut deal in January 2017. Asked about the Saudi plans for November production, when the U.S. sanctions on Irans oil return, al-Falih said that the November output would be slightly higher from the October level, which he expects to average 10.7 million bpd. According to the monthly Reuters survey of OPEC supply, Saudi Arabia pumped 10.53 million bpd in September, up by 50,000 bpd from August. OPECs secondary sources and the Saudi self-reported production put Saudi Arabias oil production in August at 10.4 million bpd. OPEC will release the September production figures next week. Related: Citi: Brent-WTI Spread Could Widen To 5-Year High At the Russian energy forum today, the Saudi minister also praised the very healthy oil market fundamentals and dismissed the criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump who has called out OPEC several times, blaming the cartel for the high oil prices. Saudi Arabia is also in weekly communication with Russia to discuss the global oil market and the oil production policy, al-Falih said. Earlier today, Reuters reported that Saudi Arabia and Russia had agreed to a private deal last month to quietly increase production between September and December to rein in the rising oil prices, allegedly keeping the United States in the loop about their plans. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Are Saudi Arabia and Russia helping Trump out by agreeing to increase oil production? A new report from Reuters says that Russia and Saudi Arabia struck a private deal in September to increase production in order to suppress oil prices. Intriguingly, the pair apparently phoned the U.S. before the Algiers meeting in late September to relay the details of their plan. The report is an indication that Saudi Arabia was trying to respond to pressure from President Trump to lower oil prices. If the White House was informed about the secret private deal, it didnt seem to resolve Trumps concerns. Just a few days after the Algiers meeting, Trump blamed OPEC for high oil prices at the UN General Assembly in New York. Also, the secrecy behind the private deal is interesting. It demonstrates that the Saudis do not want to be perceived as doing Trumps bidding. The Russians and the Saudis agreed to add barrels to the market quietly with a view not to look like they are acting on Trumps order to pump more, one source told Reuters. However, the downside of keeping the strategy secret is that if the oil market doesnt know about it, or the fact that Saudi Arabia and Russia decided to ramp up production, then the effect on prices is muted. After all, Brent surged to $85 per barrel in recent days, evidence that oil traders are not convinced about OPECs strategy. It may not be surprising then that the Reuters report came out when it did. Was that a deliberate strategy by the Saudis to leak the details to the press in order to inform the market? Who knows, but it came shortly after Brent rose its highest level in four years, which seems unlikely to be a coincidence. Related: Underwhelming OPEC Fuels Oil Price Rally On Wednesday, Saudi oil minister Khalid al-Falih confirmed the increase in supply, telling reporters that Saudi output currently stands at 10.7 million barrels per day (mb/d), right around the countrys all-time record high. That is up sharply from the 10.4 mb/d it produced in August, and the increase offers some evidence to back up the story that Saudi Arabia and Russia agreed to boost output weeks ago, and may have told American officials about it. Al-Falih also said that production would be slightly higher in November compared to October levels. Russia added 150,000 bpd in September, pushing output up to a new post-Soviet record high at about 11.35 mb/d. I would expect Russias oil production will hover at around 11.4 to 11.6 million bpd until the end of 2018 and may increase further to 11.8 million bpd later on in 2019, a source at a major Russian oil company told Reuters. Those are serious numbers, and should be taken with a grain of salt, but they offer a window into the thinking in Moscow. Nevertheless, the White House still does not appear to be completely mollified. At the end of September, Trump reportedly called the Saudi King, and although the nature of that conversation was not disclosed, most oil watchers believed that the call was an attempt to pressure the Saudis into increasing oil supply. Related: Kuwait Stops Exporting Crude To U.S. Trump continued the pressure campaign at a campaign rally in Mississippi on Tuesday, where he offered some details about the conversation. How about our military deals where we protect rich nations that we dont get reimbursed? Trump said. I love the king, King Salman, but I said, King, were protecting you. You might not be there for two weeks without us. You have to pay for your military, you have to pay. Whether or not he actually said this to the King is questionable, but the fact that he appears to be insulting the Saudi monarchy in public offers more evidence that he wants them to lower oil prices from todays highs. It remains to be seen if Trump can convince the Saudis to take a more aggressive line, although it should be noted that Saudi Arabias decision to increase production by 300,000 bpd from August levels is not trivial. Qatars Minister of Energy and Industry Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada defended the current OPEC strategy on Wednesday. OPEC is not trying to manipulate the price, it's trying to bring the market to balance, he told CNBC. By Nick Cunningham of Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Drillers in the fastest-growing oil region in the United States face infrastructure issues beyond limited pipeline takeaway capacity or water and frac sand supply. Permian oil producers need a lot more electricity to power well production than they did just a few years ago. And the West Texas electricity gridwhich wasnt planned for so heavy a loadis straining to catch up with power demand. Thanks to rising oil prices, oil production in the Permian has been surging. While drillers have flocked again to the hottest U.S. shale play, electricity infrastructure and transmission grids in West Texas need years to expand to keep reliable power supply on. Over the past year, electricity demand across the Permian has surged by 79 percent, while some areas in the play have seen demand soar by as much as 400 percent over the past two-three years, the biggest utility serving the PermianOncor Electric Delivery Cotold Bloomberg. The company is regularly talking to Permian drillers to listen to their needs and make sure that it is meeting them, Oncor spokesman Geoff Bailey told Bloomberg. By the end of 2021, the company will put new or upgraded lines across the region with investments of US$450 million, Bailey said. Oncor, together with American Electric Power Service Corporation and the Lower Colorado River Authority Transmission Services Corporation, plans the Far West Texas Transmission Project for two new 345-kV lines to help address future reliability concerns in the growing region of Far West Texas. The first line will span in the Ector, Winkler, Loving, and Reeves counties, while the second line will extend further south in Pecos County. The project is expected to be completed in the next four to five years. At the same time, production in the Permian is growing every month, with the EIA forecasting October oil production at 3.458 million bpd, up by 31,000 bpd over September. The Permian power grid is incapable now of adequately handling the massive increase in drilling and production activity. While companies use diesel engines to power the biggest equipment on the site, drilling rigs and fracking pumps, providing power for wells already drilled and in their production stage, is often the biggest operation expense item, according to Bloomberg. Until the new power transmission projects come on line, companies have started to look for alternative solutions to power their oil production operationselectrification projects, gas-powered compressors, solar and wind power. Noble Energy, for example, has some electrification projects in the Permian. Related: European Natural Gas Prices Are Set To Rise Further Im sure youve heard from others that some of the supply of electricity is not that reliable in the Southern Delaware Basin and so weve got some dollars going towards an electrification project that will help improve reliability there. Gary Willingham, EVP of Operations, said on Noble Energys Q2 2018 earnings call. Diamondback Energys president and COO, Michael Hollis, said on the companys Q2 call that with its full-field electrification in its Delaware position, the company expects to reduce its power generation costs by up to US$60,000 per month per well, when the electrification is put in place in the second half this year. Oil producers have also tested whether solar or wind power could be a viable solution to the power problem, but found the renewable energy option more expensive and unable to provide the consistency and power to run oilfield equipment, electrical-engineering consultant Toni Jameson told Bloomberg. Gas turbines fueled by the abundant gas in the area are another option that oil producers consider for powering the oil wells. Until new transmission lines are placed in four to five years, Permian oil producers are looking to solve the electricity and power stability issues with various other projects and solutions, because, as consultant Jameson told Bloomberg, the Permian power grid is currently like a one-lane country road, while the oil industry needs something like a 12-lane highway in both directions. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: A new era of mega LNG projects could be upon us. Royal Dutch Shell just gave the go-ahead to a massive LNG export project on Canadas Pacific Coast, a strong signal that the period of oversupply in the global LNG market has come to an end. The decision comes less than a week after Qatar announced a major LNG expansion, a decision to build a fourth LNG train in addition to three LNG trains already in the works. Taken together, Qatar is set to significantly expand its LNG export capacity by more than 40 percent, rising from 77 million tonnes per year (mtpa) to 110 mtpa by the mid-2020s. But Shells LNG Canada project is a more notable development, for several reasons. For one, Shell is not a state-owned company, so its decision is devoid of geostrategic priorities. In that sense, it more closely reflects the belief that the LNG market has decidedly rounded a corner. Second, and more importantly, LNG Canada is a greenfield project, not an expansion of an existing site. That is also a testament to the companys confidence in rising LNG prices and strong demand for the foreseeable future. As the market grows, our LNG business needs to grow, Shell Chief Financial Officer Jessica Uhl said in a call with reporters. Demand has exceeded expectations. We believe that that pattern will continue going into 2020s. It wasnt too long ago that global LNG markets looked oversupplied. A wave of export terminals were planned and brought online in the early part of this decade, super-charged by sky-high landing prices for LNG following the 2011 Fukushima meltdown and the shuttering of Japans nuclear fleet, which led to soaring demand for imported gas. High prices in Asia resulted in a proliferation of planned LNG export terminals around the world. Related: European Natural Gas Prices Are Set To Rise Further However, the oil market downturn in 2014 unfolded just as some export terminals planned years earlier were coming online. LNG prices have historically been linked to crude oil prices, so the crash in oil dragged down LNG. The glut of LNG export capacity also pushed the market into a deep slump, and many analysts predicted that a rebound would not arrive for years, perhaps even as long as a decade. Shell delayed its final investment decision on LNG Canada multiple times over the past few years, most recently in 2016 during the depths of the downturn. Two years on, the LNG market looks dramatically different. China is in the midst of an LNG buying spree, helping to soak up a lot of excess supply. Also, a series of smaller nations, particularly in Southeast Asia, are also buying more imported gas. And the proliferation of import and regasification facilities have broadened the market and increased import demand faster than many had expected. As a result, there could be a shortage of LNG supply as soon as 2022, according to Sanford C. Bernstein & Co., which means it is the right time for new investment, as Shells CFO put it. Ultimately, this is the start of a major LNG investment wave, Bernstein analysts said in a recent note. Against that backdrop, Shells FID is a potent symbol of a market that has tightened dramatically. We believe 2019 could be the busiest year of LNG FIDs ever, Wood Mackenzies director of North America gas, Dulles Wang, said, according to Reuters. There are a few other reasons why the project is notable. For Canada, the LNG export terminal is set to be the largest infrastructure project in the countrys history. It will consist of two LNG trains capable of shipping 14 mtpa. Shell and its partners will consider an expansion in the future that would roughly double that capacity. Second, the gas has to come from somewhere. In a related but separate announcement, TransCanada Corp. said that it would move forward with developing the Coastal GasLink pipeline, a 420-mile project that will carry natural gas from the emerging Montney Shale to the Pacific Coast at Kitimat. The pipeline is supposed to come online in 2023 and Shells LNG export terminal will enter into service before 2025. Taken together, the pipeline and the export terminal could unlock vast new gas reserves in the Montney shale. Related: Why The Saudis Cant Keep A Lid On Oil Prices Also, a new Pacific frontier for LNG could spell bad news for the Gulf of Mexico. As Bloomberg notes, shipping LNG from Canadas Pacific Coast means that cargoes can arrive in Tokyo in eight days, a huge advantage compared to the roughly 20 days that it takes a shipment to travel from the U.S. Gulf Coast. To top it off, China just slapped a 10 percent tariff on U.S. LNG, further damaging the competitiveness of gas exports. Qatars recent LNG expansion should also be viewed as part of the race to capture the Chinese market, one in which U.S. LNG developers appear to be losing ground. Shells decision to greenlight the new LNG terminal in Canada may seem like a project that is unique to Shell, but the fallout from the FID will be felt globally. By Nick Cunningham of Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Gazprom is an important player in the European gas market for two reasons. Its monopoly status in Russia when it comes to exporting natural gas through pipelines and limited transportation options as a consequence of its gaseous state until -162 Celsius or -260 Fahrenheit. The rise of LNG has affected Gazproms business in the sense that its strategy has been adjusted. Instead of resisting, the Russian giant has decided to embrace new developments. Several LNG projects have been proposed over the years but not many have made it past the drawing board. The most recent announcement concerning Baltic LNG, however, has special significance due to its strategic implications for the European market. After the break-up of the Soviet Union, a considerable power vacuum was created, which President Putin called the greatest geopolitical catastrophe of the 20th century. Russia, within this context, was weakened and relied on the export of resources to exert influence in its region. Gazprom, therefore, received considerable backing from the state to establish energy dominance domestically and in parts of Europe. The Russian giants monopoly concerning the export of natural gas through pipelines is a thorny issue for other companies such as Rosneft. LNG: opportunity & threat Despite the monopoly, Gazprom has made some inroads in the LNG market through its Sakhalin 2 project in cooperation with Shell, Mitsui, and Mitsubishi. This was the first project of its kind in Russia, which strengthened the position of Gazprom as Moscows foreign policy tool and an important source of revenue. The signing of a MoU with Mitsui on Baltic LNG comes at a time when Gazprom is feeling the pinch in Europe due to heightened geopolitical tensions and domestic pressure from other producers. Although Gazprom is indispensable for European energy security due to its massive capacity and relatively low prices, LNG from alternative sources is making inroads. Natural gas transported through pipelines is cheaper than LNG, but political considerations create room for alternatives. For this reason, both Lithuania and Poland have invested in an LNG terminal, while next door neighbour Russia possesses the largest and some of the most competitively priced gas on the European market. Competition and political disagreements have been driving Gazproms solidification strategy in Europe with investments in massive new pipelines such as Nord Stream 2 and Turk Stream. Related: The Middle East Nuclear Race Is Reaching A Boiling Point Domestically, the Russian giant is also facing challenges. Traditionally Gazprom has received preferential treatment from the Kremlin. Despite intense lobbying, Moscow has refused give other companies the right to operate export pipelines. However, Novatek has been able to find its niche which is less politicised while also serving the Russian states and its own interests: Arctic LNG. The successful inauguration of the multi-billion Yamal LNG project in cooperation with Total and Chinas CNPC has increased pressure on Gazprom as its not the only LNG exporting company in Russia anymore. Diversifying on the Western route Despite the fear of some European nations of becoming too dependent on Russian gas, Gazproms reliance on the European market is far greater. The bulk of its natural gas is sold on the European market. In spite of Gazprom signing the landmark $400 billion deal to annually supply 38 bcm to China, its most lucrative market remains Europe where it supplies almost 200 bcm, a third of the continents annual consumption. Although the project was framed as Gazproms pivot to the east, the pipeline will make use of untapped resources in Eastern Siberia while Europe receives gas from the traditional production areas in Western Siberia. Related: Underwhelming OPEC Fuels Oil Price Rally (Click to enlarge) Gazproms preferred pivot to the east strategy would have made use of gas fields in Western Siberia due to two reasons: already existing infrastructure and optimizing profit. China, on the other hand, made it clear that the gas was needed in its densely populated northeast in contrast to the northwest. However, the enormous growth in natural gas consumption due to Beijings clean air policy, has made a second Western Route feasible. This pipeline would be filled with gas from the traditional production areas in Western Siberia. The location of Baltic LNG near the seaport of Ust-Luga has the advantage that it draws from the same gas fields and infrastructure as Nord Stream 1 & 2. This means additional infrastructure costs are relatively low. Furthermore, having the option to export natural gas through either pipeline or as LNG creates alternatives for maximizing profit. (Click to enlarge) Although the MoU on Baltic LNG has just been signed, it has the potential to transform Gazproms business in the West. Its production capacity is immense, but not unlimited. Using the newly launched Electronic Sales Platform, natural gas is already sold in daily auctions to European customers in addition to supplies under existing contracts. During periods of high demand, diversifying its export destinations could earn great profits for Gazprom By Vanand Meliksetian for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Saudi Arabia is incapable of offsetting all of Irans crude oil supplies, according to the latest oil market message shared by several analysts who spoke to CNBC. Based on this, the analysts said, Brent crude could very well hit US$100 a barrel before this years end. Yet nothing is certain, and this uncertainty will only deepen as the Iran sanction launch approaches. It may turn out that things are not what they seem. Market players have been toying with the idea of US$100 oil ever since President Trump pulled the United States out of the Iran nuclear deal. Since then, we have had one OPEC+ meeting where Saudi Arabia and Russia assured the market that there would be enough oil to keep prices steady. We have also had a string of increasingly alarmist headlines quoting unnamed sources from Indian and, most recently, a Chinese refiner, who said they were cutting their intake of Iranian oil, heightening concerns that Irans exports may be restricted more than originally feared. In June, few were willing to question Saudi Arabias claim that it had enough spare capacity, and that it could ramp up production utilizing that capacity to reach more than 12 million bpd should the need arise. Now, however, there are doubts. Stephen Brennock from PVM Oil Associates said in a research note that this focus will turn to meek levels of global, or more accurately, Saudi spare capacity." Indeed, compared with the grimmer estimates of 2 million bpd in lost Iranian supply, 1.5 million bpd is a modest amount. Yet it is a little early to assume as much as two million barrels in daily supply from Iran will be lost. TankerTrackers, for one, reported last month that there were more than a dozen Iranian tankers that had gone offline in the Persian Gulf. Now, while some of these may very well be storing oil offshore, others may just as well be on their way to an import destination. Related: Underwhelming OPEC Fuels Oil Price Rally One recent news report that basically put a stick of dynamite under Brent came from Reuters, which quoted anonymous sources from Sinopec as saying that Chinas biggest crude oil refiner would slash its oil imports from Iran to as little as 130,000 bpd. This, however, is based on calculations made by Reuters, which used the prevailing supply contracts between Sinopec and the National Iranian Oil Company. Last week, Bloomberg also added fuel to the flames of bullish sentiment by quoting (again unnamed) sources from Indian refiners as saying they still have not ordered Iranian oil cargoes for delivery in November. The shocking headline, however, may be a bit premature. Remember those offline tankers? Besides them, a New Delhi government official told Reuters at the time that there had been no decision to stop buying Iranian crude. Later, Irans Foreign Minister said that India would continue to buy Iranian crude despite the sanctions. Who are we to believe? The very fact that this question needs asking explains why prices could hit US$100 before the end of 2018, regardless of the actual supply situation. It would take until at least the end of November for anyone to gather enough meaningfuland reliabletanker data to determine how much Iranian oil is being lost. By that time, Brent may be testing US$90, judging by how the news of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait discussing the addition of 500,000 bpd to their combined production within a couple of months failed to have any negative impact on prices. Quite the contrary, Brent started this week with another gain, now trading at over US$83 a barrel. The market may be panicking, and where there is panic, common sense and logic are out the window. Brent may very well reach US$100, at least until reality settles in, demand slumps, and prices find their way back down. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Argentina has announced the launch of an offshore oil and gas block tender in what it says is the last frontier for oil and gas exploration in the southern hemisphere. S&P Global Platts quoted the countrys Energy Secretary Javier Iguacel as saying there was a lot of interest in the blocks, mainly because Argentinas substantial offshore territory is untapped. According to Iguacel, the geology of Argentinas continental slope, where the shelf falls into deep water, is similar to the geology of Suriname and Guyana, where oil and gas finds have been made recently. Guyana has become a particularly attractive destination after Exxon announced a whole string of promising discoveries off the countrys shore. Argentina seems to be hoping to repeat this success. The Energy Secretariat is offering 38 blocks, in depths ranging from 100 to 4,000 meters, in three basins, taking in bids in February. To boost the number of bidders, the ministry will go on road shows in Buenos Aires, Houston, and either London or Paris, Iguacel also told S&P Global Platts. Argentinas government has been eager to put the countrys oil and gas resources to good use, offering explorers substantial incentives to develop them. Yet the offshore area has not been a priority so far. Instead, all eyes have been on the giant Vaca Muerta shale formation, possibly the second-biggest in the world, after Eagle Ford. The formation is estimated to hold some 16.2 billion barrels of crude oil and 308 trillion cu ft of natural gas. So far, president Mauricio Macri has announced US$5 billion investments for the development of the giant play, with private companies having pledged some US$8 billion. If the offshore tender is successful, it could also fetch billions in investments and could be followed by more tenders for Argentinas sizeable offshore domain. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Exxon is reviewing its portfolio and might decide to sell some of its assets in the Gulf of Mexico, unnamed sources told Reuters. One of these elaborated: Exxon could sell some deepwater operations in the Gulf that produce 50,000 bpd as well as stakes in other projects that have a combined daily production rate of over 200,000 bpd and 730 million cu ft of natural gas. In its portfolio review, Exxon is following a trend thats gained popularity among Big Oil majors after the 2014 price collapse. Oil supermajors are now increasingly focusing on a limited number of projects in higher-return, lower-cost environments. For Exxon, these seem to be Guyana, where the company has made several promising discoveries, as well as Brazil, with its superstar pre-salt zone, and the Permian at home. The Liza field offshore Guyana alone could pump 120,000 bpd of crude oil during the first phase of its development. In Brazil, Exxon has interests in 26 offshore blocks. Just one of these, the giant Carcara field, operated by Equinor, holds reserves of up to 2 billion barrels of crude. Most recently, Exxon won the rights to explore the Tita field in the Santos Basin, another pre-salt focal point for international oil players interested in Brazil. Exxon Mobil continually reviews its assets for their contribution toward meeting the companys operating needs, financial objectives and their potential value to others, Reuters quoted a company spokeswoman as saying. The time is ripe for asset sales, indeed: oil prices are rising and there seems to be little anyone could do to arrest this rise for the time being. Exxon is one of the top ten operators in the Gulf of Mexico. It has stakes in 339 blocks in the deepwater sector of the U.S. alone, and substantial interests in some of the largest projects in the area. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: The U.S.-China trade war is battering what was a fast-growing business for U.S. oil producers until a few months agoU.S. crude oil shipments to China have totally stopped in recent weeks, the president of China Merchants Energy Shipping Co (CMES) told Reuters on Wednesday. Since the middle of this year, the U.S. and China have been imposing tariffs on each others goods, escalating the row with tit-for-tat tariffs on billions of U.S. dollars worth of goods. The latest escalation included China slapping a 10-percent tariff on U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) last month. China has so far spared crude oil from tariffs. Chinese refiners may have been relieved by Beijings decision to remove U.S. crude oil from the list of goods in the tariff tit-for-tat, but they are staying away from purchases of U.S. crude as refiners and traders fear that the removal is only temporary, and China may slap tariffs on U.S. crude if the trade war further escalates. We are one of the major carriers for crude oil from the U.S. to China. Before (the trade war) we had a nice business, but now its totally stopped, CMES president Xie Chunlin told Reuters on the sidelines of a global maritime forum in Hong Kong on Wednesday. U.S. crude oil exports to China, which only started in 2016 after the U.S. removed restrictions on crude exports, have been rising over the past year to hit a record 510,000 bpd in June 2018, before easing to 384,000 bpd in July, according to the latest available EIA data. According to Refinitiv Eikon ship tracking data, U.S. crude oil shipments to China plunged in September to just 600,000 barrels in the month, compared to 9.7 million barrels for the month of August. Meanwhile, China is looking to replace U.S. crude oil because of the trade war, and is buying crude from West Africa at the highest level in seven years, according to Bloomberg data. Chinese refiners have purchased 1.71 million bpd of crude oil from West Africa for October loadings, the highest since at least August 2011 when Bloomberg started to compile the data. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Dakota Buttar remains No. 1 in the 2021 PBR Canada Championship race with qualified ride in opening rounds of the leagues national Finals Todd Chotowetz goes a perfect 2-for-2 to lead the heated battle for the PBR Canada National Finals event win. China not North Korea is our biggest threat to peace, South Koreans say China is the country presenting the biggest barrier to peace on the Korean peninsula, surpassing North Korea for the first time, according to a new poll of South Korean citizens. In the survey, released on Tuesday by the Institute for Peace and Unification Studies (IPUS) at Seoul National University, 46 per cent of respondents viewed China as the most threatening country to peace on the Korean peninsula, a dramatic increase from 2016, when 17 per cent said China was the most threatening. Only 33 per cent viewed North Korea as the country posing the biggest threat, well down on 64 per cent last year and the first time it had been eclipsed by China since the survey began in 2007, the institute said. The poll of 1,200 men and women aged 19 to 74 was conducted by Gallup Korea between July 12 and August 3. China does not want inter-Korean reunification, according to 91 per cent of respondents, compared with 90, 88 and 53 per cent for Japan, Russia and the United States respectively. IPUS senior researcher Choi Gyu-bin suggested the figures stemmed from the dispute over the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system, an American anti-ballistic missile defence system deployed in South Korean territory since 2017. Chinas economic retaliation to Seouls decision to allow THAAD to be deployed in South Korea has had a negative impact on South Koreans perception of China, Choi said. US targets Chinese and Russian missiles with THAAD upgrade in South Korea: military analysts Beijing saw THAAD as a threat targeting China, compromising the countrys national security by monitoring its military activities, rather than a way to deter or curb North Koreas nuclear ambitions. China then embarked on an aggressive unofficial campaign to stop Chinese tour groups travelling to South Korea. Its boycott cost South Koreas tourism industry 7.5 trillion won (US$6.7 billion) between January and September last year, according to data compiled by the South Korean national assemblys budget office. Story continues China fires broadsides at South Koreas Lotte group for providing land to host anti-missile system The Chinese government also targeted the Seoul-based multinational conglomerate Lotte which had agreed to provide land for THAAD by fining it for its advertising practices and shutting down a large number of its supermarkets in China for fire regulation violations. China has also intensified its customs inspections of South Korean companies. [The survey results] may also be a [simple] reaction due to a rapid increase in intimacy towards North Korea, Choi said. Summits between the two Koreas, as well as between North Korea and China and between North Korea and the US, accounted for the fall in negative perceptions of North Korea, he said. North and South Korea vowed during their summits to end their seven decades of hostility. Half of the surveys respondents considered China a country to be cautious of, more than double the 24 per cent stating that opinion in 2015, before the THAAD dispute. Only 13 per cent considered China a partner for cooperation the lowest figure since the survey began. North Koreas Kim felt very close to the Souths Moon at summit in Pyongyang Half also said the rise of China did not help bring about peace on the Korean peninsula, whereas 22 per cent felt it would positively influence the region. While THAAD retaliation is considered a direct cause, US-China conflict, territorial disputes in East Asia and the assertive Belt and Road Initiative are some of the indirect factors responsible for the results, Choi said. Seoul has recently made efforts to rebuild its relations with Pyongyang, taking part in three inter-Korean summits since April with another expected in Seoul by the end of the year. Can Moon Jae-in get relations with Beijing back on track after THAAD? An inter-Korean joint military committee will be activated soon to avoid accidental military collisions, the September Pyongyang Declaration stated. The two Koreas have agreed to enhance exchanges and cooperation. Meanwhile, 53 per cent of respondents said that South Korea must maintain a neutral position during the escalation of the US-China conflict, while 39 per cent and 8 per cent said Seoul must improve cooperation only with Washington and Beijing respectively. This article China not North Korea is our biggest threat to peace, South Koreans say first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018. Credit: CC0 Public Domain When it comes to addressing workplace bullying, the solution might rest in training bosses to be more in tune with how their management styles impact colleagues, according to a recent study by Western Ph.D. Nursing student Edmund Walsh. Along with Nursing professor Carol Wong, Walsh led a study to assess the relationship between a manager's 'authentic leadership skills' and workplace bullying among experienced registered nurses. The random sample of 478 nurses from Alberta, Nova Scotia and Ontario showed a direct effect between a manager's leadership awareness and the prevalence of bullying in the workplace. With the nurses themselves, Walsh's study found workplace bullying impacted their physical and mental health in a negative way, led to high job stress and even higher levels of burnout. But the impacts went beyond the nurses. While found in most professions, the negative impacts of workplace bullying can radiate up and down the health-care system. In terms of the organization, workplace bullying was associated with decreased productivity. For patients, it was shown to cause a decrease in quality of care. "I don't want to give the impression this is every day in the (nursing) profession," said Walsh, who worked two years as nurse in general surgery/orthopedic surgery after graduating from Memorial University. "But more work needs to be done in considering the negative consequences. Could the amount of bullying be lower? For sure." Walsh, who will present his research next month at the International Nursing Administration Research Conference in Georgia, said his findings may inform strategies to address bullying, as well as the hiring, training and evaluation of managers. One of those strategies endorsed by the study is the concept of authentic leadership. At its core, Walsh explained, authentic leadership is a back-to-basic approach to leadership that emphasizes building legitimacy through honest relationships with followers. Generally, authentic leaders have a self-awareness of their own strengths, weaknesses and values; an openness to opposing viewpoints and fair-minded consideration of them; a willingness to share their own thoughts and beliefs; and a positive ethical foundation. Authentic leadership is a growing area of study in academic research on leadership. Walsh continued, "Does my manager know his/her strengths and weaknesses and how they impact other people? Do they know how they are perceived by others? When making decisions, do they take everyone's opinion into account or are they just seeking the opinion of those who are like minded? Do they act in congruence with moral and ethical values or are they swayed by the organization or a senior leader?" Walsh's study was not meant as an indictment of nursing, but as an opportunity to explore the possibilities of improving the profession. "We know a lot about the consequences we know it leads to a lot of things. What we need to know is, what leads to the bullying? What increases or decreases that?" he said. "We can study the effects all day, but unless we know what causing it, there can't be meaningful policy changes." Walsh sees the possibility of including workplace bully awareness, as well as authentic leadership training, into nursing education. "Workplace bullying is incongruent with nursing as a caring profession. More action is necessary to ensure nurses can go to work without fear of being subjected to negative behaviours," he said. "Managers are well-positioned to positively influence nursing workplaces. Leading in an authentic way may help create a work environment where bullying behaviours are unsustainable." Explore further Research shows hospital bullying cases rarely resolved When the news media reflects a "rape culture" in communities, more rapes occur but few arrests are made by local police, according to a new study. Biased news coverage of rape blames victims, questions their credibility, implies consent and empathizes with perpetrators. This can deter other victims from coming forward, and ultimately increases rapes, the study showed. University of Michigan and Harvard University researchers analyzed how rape culture might shape the preferences and choices of perpetrators, victims and law enforcement. They tested this theory with data on news stories about rape published in U.S. newspapers between 2000 and 2013. The data suggests that biased news coverage is associated with both an uptick in rape reports and a decrease in police vigilance. "We find that rape culture in the media predicts both the frequency of rape and its pursuit through the local criminal justice system," said study co-author Yuri Zhukov, U-M assistant professor of political science. "In jurisdictions where rape culture was more prevalent, there were more documented rape cases, but authorities were less vigilant in pursuing them." Zhukov said one of the many challenges in studying this topic is that most sexual assaults are never reported. When crime statistics show an increase in rape cases, it could be the result of more victims coming forwardwhich one might see as good newsor it could be an actual increase in sexual crime, he said. Still, he said, it's important that media outlets publish news stories about rape. "The problem is with what newspapers say after they decide to run a storywhat aspect of a rape case they cover and whom they choose to quote," Zhukov said. For example, coverage of court proceedings sometimes features victim-blaming language and implications of consent, because such language often comes up during witness testimony and cross-examination. This information may be newsworthy, but it is also not hard to see how such coverage might deter some victims from making accusations and going through the same ordeal themselves, he said. Zhukov said the study does not suggest that news coverage "causes" rape. "The more plausible explanationconsistent with previous researchis that local news reporting reflects local norms toward sexual assault," said Zhukov, a faculty associate at the U-M Institute for Social Research. "To victims, these norms might dictate how costly it is to come forward and seek justice. And where potential perpetrators believe that rape victims are unlikely to come forward, they may feel more impunity." The findings appear in the Quarterly Journal of Political Science. Explore further People who embrace traditional masculinity beliefs less likely to report rape More information: Matthew A. Baum et al. Does Rape Culture Predict Rape? Evidence from U.S. Newspapers, 20002013, Quarterly Journal of Political Science (2018). Matthew A. Baum et al. Does Rape Culture Predict Rape? Evidence from U.S. Newspapers, 20002013,(2018). DOI: 10.1561/100.00016124 Some of the worlds biggest private sector companies are making a stronger commitment to addressing their environmental impacts, according to new research. Credit: Shutterstock Some of the world's biggest private sector companies are committing to address their environmental impacts and factoring biodiversity into their sustainability reports, according to new Oxford University research. The perhaps surprising observation, comes as part of a new study conducted by researchers in Oxford's Department of Zoology, in collaboration with the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE) at the University of Kent, which assessed the top 100 of the 2016 Fortune 500 Global companies' (the Fortune 100) sustainability reports, for the first time, including, Sainsbury's, Walmart and Apple. The findings published in Conservation Biology, sit as a direct contrast to UN experts previous description of big business as 'soulless corporations and a cancer on society," and suggest that the private sector is taking note of the public's growing concerns around corporate responsibility for environmental issues, like plastics, marine pollution and deforestation. The study is the first of its kind, and offers a global snapshot of some of the biggest corporations around the world, across multiple sectors of large businesses, that publicly disclose their impacts and dependencies on biodiversity. Understanding these varying levels of commitment will allow the team and others in the field to better work with these businesses to shape their biodiversity goals, help them be more effective in managing their impacts, and ultimately better protect the environment. Of the top Fortune 100 companies, 86 have publicly available sustainability reports. A review of this data revealed that almost half (49) of the Fortune 100 companies mentioned biodiversity in their reports and 31 made clear biodiversity commitments and an additional 12 made clear fishing or forestry commitments. However, only five of these companies made biodiversity commitments that could be considered specific, measurable and time-bound. This is unlike the much greater adoption of science-based climate commitments made by companies committing to reduce carbon emissions in line with the Paris Agreement within the next decade, emphasising that biodiversity loss remains a less pressing issue to the private sector compared to climate change. Prue Addison, NERC Knowledge Exchange & Research Fellow at the Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Science in Oxford's Department of Zoology, explains: "Biodiversity underpins the resilience of ecosystems, economies and societies. Many businesses can be reliant on biodiversity, such as those in natural resource sectors. But many other sectors will find that biodiversity is relevant to business operations too particularly since regulators, financial institutions and society are increasingly demanding responsible corporate practice when it comes to managing biodiversity impacts. Biodiversity is a critical aspect of the living environment that should be considered across public and private sectors, if we are to halt the biodiversity declines that have been witnessed around the globe over recent decades. Professor E.J. Milner-Gulland, the paper's co-author, who leads the Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Science in Oxford's Department of Zoology, explains: "It is important for us as conservation scientists to understand to what degree larger corporations depend on biodiversity, so that we can begin to work more closely with the private sector to help them develop fit-for-purpose and science-based approaches to better integrate biodiversity considerations into future business decisions." Dr. Joe Bull, a co-author on the paper, from DICE at the University of Kent, said: "We were pleasantly surprised at how many companies do acknowledge biodiversity in their sustainability reports, with almost half of the 2016 Fortune 100 Global companies mentioning biodiversity. But despite this, the biodiversity commitments made, activities undertaken and information disclosed about biodiversity in sustainability reports are incredibly variable. So there is clearly room for improvement, and in our paper we show how approaches from conservation science can help advance corporate biodiversity accountability." In recent years environmental awareness has become a hot-topic social issue, with people petitioning brands to do more in the way of environmental protection, such as banning single-use plastic, through to slowing the rate of global deforestation. Of how better understanding this data can support conservationists in their work, Dr. Addison said: "This study represents just the beginning of our applied research into corporate biodiversity accountability. Now that we understand how businesses currently treat biodiversity in their public reporting, we can work in a more targeted way with businesses to help them more rapidly advance their corporate biodiversity accountability. Some critical areas we are already beginning to work with business on include developing science-based corporate biodiversity commitments, and robust and relevant quantitative biodiversity indicators. We also recognise the power that the Sustainable Development Goals hold for many businesses, so we are working to show how being accountable for biodiversity can help businesses demonstrate their commitment to international conservation and sustainable development priorities outlined in the SDGs." Moving forward the team are keen to build on these findings, by building relationships with big businesses, and helping them develop clear biodiversity aspirations, and take action to address and drive their goals towards making positive environmental change. Prue explains: "We have had a lot of interest in our research already particularly from organisations that aim to support businesses in their non-financial reporting and accounting. For example, we have been speaking with the IBAT (Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool) Alliance, who are very excited about our research. They are increasingly getting requests from businesses to develop a tool that will support them in undertaking corporate-level reporting on biodiversity. As yet, no such tool exists, we hope that our research could form the underpinning for a prototype tool in the coming year to support businesses with their corporate-level reporting on biodiversity." Explore further Scale is a key ingredient when tracking biodiversity, researchers say More information: Prue F. E. Addison et al. Using conservation science to advance corporate biodiversity accountability, Conservation Biology (2018). Journal information: Conservation Biology Prue F. E. Addison et al. Using conservation science to advance corporate biodiversity accountability,(2018). DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13190 A new study shows that smaller firms could become more attractive to investors by producing more data. Credit: MIT Sloan School of Management Big data has big benefits for big companies. For small firms? Not so much. New research shows that smaller firms stand at a major disadvantage when compared to larger, older firms that have more earnings statements, sales figures, and other pertinent big data that investors use in their decision-making and number-crunching when assessing risk. The study, "Big data in finance and the growth of large firms," is the first of its kind to look at how big data affects firm distribution, said Maryam Farboodi, one of the study's authors and an assistant professor of finance at MIT Sloan. Farboodi and co-authors Juliane Begenau of Stanford Graduate School of Business and Laura Veldkamp of Columbia Business School argue that big data helps reduce investors' uncertainty and lowers the cost of capital for large firms relative to small ones, allowing big companies to expand even more. "Think about the Exxons of the world," Farboodi said. "Older firms have more data available to investors that makes them more willing to finance the firms, whose cost of capital falls as investors get better at processing data." This new research sheds light on a puzzling economics question: Why are large firms thriving while smaller ones are struggling? Farboodi suspects that part of the explanation is about how much data is available to investors and how much data they are able to process. "A small firm doesn't have a lot of data," said Farboodi. "It doesn't matter how well investors can process the datathere's not a long history of it. Even if data processing technology is very advanced, there is not much to learn about small and young firms, and the high uncertainty makes investors reluctant to finance these firms." Statistics suggest that small firms are struggling. In the last three decades, the annual rate of new startups has slipped to less than 8 percent from 13 percent, according to previous research that the authors cite in their paper. Meanwhile, firms with more than 1,000 employees are thriving. In terms of the U.S. labor force, large employers now employ about a third of employeesup from a quarter in the 1980sand revenue share continues to grow, as cited in the paper and used to inform their model. Small businesses are vital to the U.S. economy, but if the cost of capital is too high, these companies won't be able to grow as fast or explore profitable projects, Farboodi said. "The growth rate of the economy is very much driven by smaller businesses," she said. "Small firms, generally speaking, have larger growth prospects. They're newer, they're innovative, and they have more room to potentially improve the unemployment rate and to increase the productivity of the economy." The study also has important takeaways for smaller companies. Mainly, that the more data they produce, the better chance they stand of lowering their cost of capital. "I think it's important for firms to understand that producing data is an asset because the data they produce about their activities will be used by investors to learn about them," Farboodi said. "If investors can better understand their returns, they will face lower risk and will be more willing to finance them. That decreases the cost of capital faced by these firms and helps them explore growth opportunities." Explore further Going viral: Investors pay more attention to social media stocks More information: Juliane Begenau et al. Big Data in Finance and the Growth of Large Firms, (2018). Juliane Begenau et al. Big Data in Finance and the Growth of Large Firms,(2018). DOI: 10.3386/w24550 A single bone artefact found in a Moroccan cave is the oldest well-dated specialized bone tool associated with the Aterian culture of the Middle Stone Age, according to a study released October 3, 2018 in the open-access journal PLOS ONE by Abdeljalil Bouzouggar of the Institut National des Sciences de l'Archeologie et du Patrimoine in Morocco and colleagues. The make and manufacture of the tool are distinct from similarly-aged sub-Saharan artefacts, suggesting a unique technological industry in North Africa. The tool was recovered in 2012 from Dar-es Soltan 1 cave, located about 260km inland from the Atlantic coast of Morocco. Upon close examination, Bouzouggar and colleagues were able to identify the origins of the bone as a large mammal rib with evidence of having been shaped and sharpened into a 122mm-long knife through a complex series of modifications. The layer containing the bone knife has been dated to approximately 90,000 years ago, approximately 55,000 years after the first appearance of the Aterian culture. This tool and the technology used to create it are distinct from bone tools of similar age in southern Africa but similar to two tools known from the El Mnasra cave site in Morocco which is also of similar age, suggesting a unique North African Aterian bone technology. Specialized bone tools are considered a sign of cognitive complexity but have been poorly-understood with the Aterian technological complex, so this finding represents a new insight into the development of modern human cognition. The authors also suggest that this new technology may have come about in response to changing resources around 90,000 years ago but note that more study will be required to support this. Silvia Bello, a co-author, adds: "Aterians were capable of a complex and controlled sequence of actions involved in the manufacture of specialised bone knives. Such distinctive bone technology implies the emergence of an independent modern techno-complex unique to the north Africa around 100,000 years ago." Explore further Paleolithic bone tools found from South China More information: Bouzouggar A, Humphrey LT, Barton N, Parfitt SA, Clark Balzan L, Schwenninger J-L, et al. (2018) 90,000 year-old specialised bone technology in the Aterian Middle Stone Age of North Africa. PLoS ONE 13(10): e0202021. Journal information: PLoS ONE Bouzouggar A, Humphrey LT, Barton N, Parfitt SA, Clark Balzan L, Schwenninger J-L, et al. (2018) 90,000 year-old specialised bone technology in the Aterian Middle Stone Age of North Africa.13(10): e0202021. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0202021 Credit: CC0 Public Domain California now has the strongest net neutrality rules in the nation, after Gov. Jerry Brown signed the bill during a last-minute flurry of bill signings and vetoes Sunday. A little over an hour after the announcement, the Department of Justice sued the state. SB 822 is meant to fill the void left by the Federal Communications Commission's repeal of the Obama-era federal regulations that prohibited internet service providers from engaging in blocking, throttling or discriminating against online traffic. California's bill, written by State Sen. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, had been hard-fought by ISPs, which argued along the way that it would be hard for them to have to comply with state-by-state regulations. The bill had a rough road in the state Legislature, where at one point it was watered down by one committee before consumer protections were restored to the version that eventually passed. "This is a historic day for California," Wiener said in a statement Sunday. "Today marks a true win for the internet and for an open society. I'm proud of the broad and diverse grassroots coalition that moved this legislation forward and got it passed." That coalition included advocacy groups such as San Francisco-based Credo. "Thanks to hundreds of thousands of activists who would not give up the fight against all odds, Californians will have real, meaningful net neutrality protections," said Brandy Doyle, Credo campaign manager, in a statement Sunday. "We thank Gov. Brown for standing with us and protecting the future of the internet and all our communities who depend on it." The high-fives were still going when the federal government crashed the party. "Once again the California legislature has enacted an extreme and illegal state law attempting to frustrate federal policy," U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement announcing the lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in the Eastern District of California, Sunday. "The Justice Department should not have to spend valuable time and resources to file this suit today, but we have a duty to defend the prerogatives of the federal government and protect our Constitutional order." In March, Sessions sued California over its "sanctuary" laws on immigration, but the state's laws were upheld in July. "California fought Trump and Sessions on their immigration lawsuitCalifornia wonand California will fight this lawsuit as well," Wiener said Sunday night. "I have complete confidence that Attorney General Xavier Becerra will do a great job defending this law." The federal rules on net neutrality, the principle that all internet traffic should be treated equally, were enacted after years of legal and political wrangling. The issue has long had bipartisan support, and a Mozilla/Ipsos poll in April showed nearly 80 percent of Americans from both major political parties support it. But AT&T, Comcast and other internet service providers argued in California, as they have for years, that net neutrality rules hinder innovation and investment in next-generation internet infrastructure. In addition, ISPs claimed that the California bill goes further than the federal rules did, because it also bans some instances of zero rating, or the practice of exempting some online content from data caps. "This bill is neither the way to get there, nor will it help advance the promise and potential of California's innovation DNA," said Jonathan Spalter, president and CEO of USTelecom, an industry group that counts AT&T and Verizon among its members, in a statement. "Rather than 50 states stepping in with their own conflicting open internet solutions, we need Congress to step up with a national framework for the whole internet ecosystem and resolve this issue once and for all." The federal Open Internet Rules, which were passed in 2015, were repealed by a Republican-majority Federal Communications Commission in December. The repeal, drafted by Ajit Paithe FCC chairman appointed by President Donald Trumptook effect this year. Since then, states such as California have been scrambling to enact their own rules. Three states, Oregon, Vermont and Washington, have enacted their own net neutrality rules, while governors in several other states have signed executive orders to establish some protections. Many other states are considering their own rules. "California's net neutrality bill is now the model for all future state and federal legislation," said Gigi Sohn, who was counselor to former FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler. Pai weighed in through a statement with the DOJ's announcement of its lawsuit on Sunday: "I'm pleased the Department of Justice has filed this suit," he said. "The Internet is inherently an interstate information service. As such, only the federal government can set policy in this area." The DOJ lawsuit names Brown and Becerra as the defendants. The governor's office said Sunday night it had no comment on the lawsuit. 2018 The Mercury News (San Jose, Calif.) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Credit: CC0 Public Domain The city of Seattle will appeal rules set last week by the federal government that seek to set a countrywide standard for how much cities can charge telecom providers to set up 5G technology for ultrafast cellular connectivity. The rules from the Federal Communications Commission are an "overreach" by the U.S. government, and will force cities to subsidize private companies' installation of 5G equipment, the offices of Mayor Jenny Durkan and City Attorney Pete Holmes said Tuesday. "It impedes local authority to serve as trustees of public property and to fulfill cities' public health and safety responsibilities while establishing unworkable standards," the city said in a statement. "This will increase costs and impose an unreasonable burden on local governments." 5G technology, which is expected to bring blazing fast connection speeds to cellphones, will require companies to hang hundreds of thousands of new receiving stations on light poles and buildings. Unlike past generations of telecom technology, 5G transmissions can travel only a short distance, requiring more antennas. To keep the U.S. competitive and to ensure a broad rollout of 5G services, cities must work with providers so they can quickly obtain permits at a low cost, the FCC said last week when releasing its rules. They require that the fees charged to telecom providers are based on costs, and they set a 60 to 90 day timeline for cities to approve or reject most permit requests. But the standards were immediately opposed by mayors across the country, calling out federal government overreach and saying the FCC's proposed fee structure was unrealistic. The FCC says that in most cases, cities should charge companies a fee of $270 annually for each receiving station sitea figure that many cities say is far lower than what they charge now, and than their administrative costs. The city of Seattle, which doesn't yet have any 5G equipment installed, currently charges about $1,874 per light pole each year for companies to hang attachments. The city plans to formally appeal the rules once the FCC officially files them. Other major cities, including Philadelphia and Los Angeles, have also expressed opposition to the rules. Telecom companies are already testing 5G service in cities across the country, and compatible phones are expected to be released next year. Though the technology is advancing, it will still be a few years before its use is widespread. 2018 The Seattle Times Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Researchers have found that the introduction of cucumber crops to North America likely led to the rise of bacterial wilt, which affects zucchini, pumpkin, cucumbers, muskmelon and squash -- costing US farmers tens of millions of dollars each year. Credit: NC State University For many of us, bumper crops of zucchinis and cucumbers conjure up the sweltering days of summer, while pumpkins and gourds decorate our holiday tables throughout the fall. However, these iconic fruits and vegetablesknown collectively as cucurbitscan also help us understand the spread of plant diseases that pose a significant risk to crops. I recently led a study that used crop species from two genera of closely related plants belonging to the family Cucurbitaceaezucchini, pumpkin and squash, which are all in the same genus (Cucurbita) and are native to the Americas, as well as cucumber and muskmelon, which both belong to a genus (Cucumis) that is originally of Eurasian origin. I used these closely related, native and introduced Cucurbitaceae crop plants as a model system to understand how and why plant pathogens emerge. For this study, I collected 88 samples of Erwinia tracheiphila from across these two host plant genera in the eastern United States and sequenced their entire genomes. E. tracheiphila is a pathogen that causes bacterial wilt in these species of cucurbits, resulting in tens of millions of dollars in crop losses and prevention costs to U.S. farmers each year. Yet, lack of basic knowledge about this pathogen means there are few control methods available for farmers. E. tracheiphila's genome is like Frankenstein's monstercobbling together lots of different pieces of genes and DNA from different sources, suggesting that it has recently undergone dramatic changes. There was also very little genetic difference between the genomes of the 88 different samples. From these genomic data, I determined that E. tracheiphila evolved as a pathogen only recently. My colleagues and I also found three distinct bacterial lineages. Surprisingly, we also found that cucumbers are the only host plant susceptible to all three lineages, and the most susceptible host plant species overall. This is notable because, while pumpkin and zucchini are native to eastern North America and have been present throughout the Americas for millions of years, cucumbers and muskmelon were only introduced to North America after European colonialization in ~1500. This strongly suggests that the introduction of a foreign crop plant, followed by widespread cultivation in eastern North America, inadvertently caused the emergence of a new, very damaging plant pathogen. Our findings strongly suggest that the way cucurbitsespecially introduced cucumbersare grown in intensive monocultures, combined with the local climate, all contributed to creating a new ecological niche into which this new bacterial pathogen emerged. This set of circumstances gives us an exciting opportunity: Since the temperate eastern United States is the only place in the world this pathogen occurs, we can dissectaided by information in the bacterial pathogen genome sequenceswhy the local climate and agricultural practices have driven the emergence, persistence and evolution of this agricultural pathogen. This may give us important insights, since more modern North American monoculture practices seem to be an important contributor to this specific plant disease outbreak. Monoculture refers to the intense growing of large populations of the same host plant species, rather than growing multiple crops in the same field, such as is the case with ancient Mexican milpa polyculture cultivation systems. To put this in historical terms that may be more familiar, E. tracheiphila has notable parallels with the Black Plague pathogen Yersinia pestis that killed up to half of Europe's population in the Middle Ages. Both E. tracheiphila and Y. pestis show similar dramatic changes in their genomes. These changes allowed both pathogens to emerge into large, dense, genetically similar host populationshumans in the case of Y. pestis, and cucurbits in the case of E. tracheiphila. The recent emergence of E. tracheiphila is a landscape-level problem, and cannot be solved by individual farmers. Our research shows that our modern agricultural practiceswhile producing unimaginably high yieldsalso have unanticipated susceptibilities to microbial pathogens. This result should give us pause, and motivate us to think much harder about how to structurally protect our agricultural systemsat the landscape levelfrom pathogens like E. tracheiphila in the future. Explore further Researchers propose ecological route to plant disease control More information: Lori R. Shapiro et al, An Introduced Crop Plant Is Driving Diversification of the Virulent Bacterial Pathogen Erwinia tracheiphila, mBio (2018). Journal information: mBio Lori R. Shapiro et al, An Introduced Crop Plant Is Driving Diversification of the Virulent Bacterial Pathogen Erwinia tracheiphila,(2018). DOI: 10.1128/mBio.01307-18 Oil pipes extend from the southern Cypriot village of Zygi towards the oil storage terminal at the port of Vasilikos in the coastal town of Mari Cyprus decided Wednesday to invite energy giants Total, Eni and ExxonMobil to bid for a license to explore for oil and gas in a new offshore block, officials said. The cabinet agreed to allow firms already licensed to exploit oil and gas in the Mediterranean island's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to bid for exploration rights in an area known as Block 7. That makes the US giant ExxonMobil, France's Total and Italy's ENI all eligible to bid, with a month to do so. Cypriot Energy Minister George Lakkotrypis said Nicosia had made the move due to "very specific geological reasons" related to a discovery in an adjacent block, announced by ENI in February. Cyprus has pushed ahead with exploring for offshore energy resources despite the collapse in 2017 of talks to end the country's decades-long division. That has angered neighbouring Turkey, which has had troops stationed on the island since 1974, when it invaded and occupied the northern third of Cyprus in response to a coup sponsored by the military junta then ruling Greece. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned foreign energy companies not to "overstep the mark" in disputed waters off the Cypriot coast. Texas-based Noble Energy in 2011 made the first discovery off Cyprus in the Aphrodite block, estimated to contain around 4.5 trillion cubic feet of gas. The discovery of Egypt's huge nearby Zohr offshore reservoir in 2015 has stoked speculation that Cypriot waters hold similar riches. Cyprus aims for natural gas to start flowing to a liquefied natural gas facility in Egypt by 2022. Explore further Cyprus, Egypt sign accord for Mediterranean gas pipeline 2018 AFP ORNLs novel computing method supports emergency response efforts by providing preliminary building structure data on the county level. This technique has been applied for hurricane-impacted areas of Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico and other U.S. Caribbean territories. Credit: Mark Tuttle/Oak Ridge National Laboratory, U.S. Dept. of Energy As hurricanes barrel toward the coastlines and wildfires rage in arid regions of the United States, scientists at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory are providing critical geospatial data to support first responders as they work to save lives and property. When disasters strike, many homes and buildings succumb to winds, floods or flames. To assist humanitarian and damage assessment efforts, ORNL researchers are using novel computing techniques to rapidly identify structures on the ground from satellite images or determine where the structures once stood. Behind the scenes, the geographic information team digitally sifts through thousands of images and collects meaningful data in a matter of hours, a process that previously would take several months. "When you look at imagery such as what's shown in Google Maps, it's very easy to visually distinguish what is a building and what is not," said Melanie Laverdiere, a geographic information system scientist at ORNL. "However, extracting this meaningful information in an automated fashion into a tangible data set is much more complex." Laverdiere works with ORNL project team lead Mark Tuttle and colleagues who are actively supporting the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, with information on buildings and structures in a hurricane's path, and those that remain in harm's way. Their technique was also applied for California's Shasta and Trinity counties, both affected by the recent Carr Fire. To assist FEMA with the Carr Fire emergency response in California, ORNL researchers used satellite images and novel computing techniques to rapidly identify and deliver data of nearly 97,000 potentially impacted or vulnerable homes and buildings in Shasta and Trinity counties. ORNL fulfilled FEMAs request in just two days, a task that could take several weeks with conventional methods. Credit: Melanie Laverdiere/Oak Ridge National Laboratory, U.S. Dept. of Energy The team collects large sets of data that identify and characterize hundreds of vulnerable and affected structures, such as residences, businesses, schools and hospitals. This information proves critical to FEMAthe agency responsible for directing emergency response and assessing damages after an emergency event to inform recovery operations. ORNL researchers first tested their approach in 2017 during the emergency response to Hurricane Harvey that hit Texas hard with flooding, and hurricanes Irma and Maria that devastated Puerto Rico and impacted parts of Florida and the Caribbean. In 2018, the ORNL team was called upon to assist with damage assessments from destructive lava flows in Hawaii. "During devastating weather and geological events, it is a time-consuming task to assess damage, a process that requires personnel in the field. However, our data permits responders to focus field efforts on areas most likely to have sustained damage," Tuttle said. "Our method supports emergency response efforts by providing preliminary building structure datawhich can be categorized for residential, multifamily and commercial propertieson the county level," he added. To assist FEMA with the Carr Fire emergency response in California, ORNL researchers used satellite images and novel computing techniques to rapidly identify and deliver data of nearly 97,000 potentially impacted or vulnerable homes and buildings in Shasta and Trinity counties. ORNL fulfilled FEMAs request in just two days, a task that could take several weeks with conventional methods. Credit: Melanie Laverdiere/Oak Ridge National Laboratory, U.S. Dept. of Energy This approach was applied to hurricane-impacted areas of Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and other U.S. Caribbean territories. During Hurricane Harvey, ORNL analyzed nearly 2,000 images covering nearly 26,000 square miles of building structures in Texas' coastal counties in just 24 hours, a process that would typically take up to nine months. In support of emergency response to lava flows, Tuttle's team processed data focused near Kilauea, Hawaii, in less than a day and all visible structures on the entire Island of Hawaii in only two weeks. Explore further Social media provides critical information missed by FEMA Elementary-school students who participated in a comprehensive support intervention in the Boston public school district had about half the odds of dropping out of high school as students not in the intervention, according to a new study published online today in AERA Open, a peer-reviewed journal published by the American Educational Research Association. The 894 students who participated in the intervention from kindergarten through fifth grade had a 9.2 percent dropout rate in high school, compared to 16.6 percent for the 10,200 non-intervention students. For their study, a team of Boston College researchers examined the impact of City Connects, a schoolwide systemic student support program that is based at the college. Developed through a collaboration between the college, Boston Public Schools, and community agencies, City Connects is designed to make student support operations, which address students' academic and nonacademic barriers to learning, more comprehensive and efficient. The students in the study entered kindergarten in 2000-01 through 2004-05 and were followed through 2013-14. Six of the district's approximately 125 elementary schools participated in City Connects during this period. These students were compared to students who were enrolled in the school district during the same time as the City Connects students but never attended an intervention school. The school district recommended schools for participation in the program based in part on where it felt the intervention was most needed. The researchers note that the six participating schools had significantly lower academic achievement than the comparison schools before program implementation. "Our findings suggest that individually tailored and coordinated student support interventions during elementary school can lead to lasting and meaningful effects," said study coauthor Mary E. Walsh, Kearns Professor of Urban Education and Innovative Leadership at Boston College, who also serves as executive director of City Connects. "There are many pathways to school dropout. A comprehensive intervention in elementary school that addresses a wide range of out-of-school factors can disrupt those pathways, supporting strengths and building resilience," Walsh said. "Despite the promise of this type of comprehensive approach to intervention, efforts targeting dropout often are highly focused, directing attention to one or two specific needsusually academic and behavioralinstead of to a wide range of both strengths and needs," said Walsh. "In addition, such efforts tend to be aimed solely at high school students, and therefore, in some cases, may come too late." According to the researchers, students fail to complete high school for complex reasons that often develop long before they reach high school. Their process of academic disengagement is influenced by a mix of in- and out-of-school factors, including academic, socio-emotional, family-related, and societal. Prior research finds that many factors affect dropoutfor example, poor academic performance in elementary, middle, and high school; a low sense of belonging in school; negative classroom behavior; and little involvement in extracurricular activities. Graduation rates are also significantly lower for black and Hispanic youth, for male students, and for students from low-income families, single-parent households, and families where parents had low educational achievement. Across all Boston public schools serving students in kindergarten through fifth grade during the time of the study, more than 90 percent of the students were eligible for free or reduced-price lunch and approximately 90 percent were minority students, the researchers report. In each participating school, a full-time coordinator, who is a master's degree-level licensed school counselor or social worker, meets with every classroom teacher and other school staff to review every student, every year. The coordinator and staff discuss each child's strengths and needs in academics, social/emotional/behavioral development, health, and family support. Since not every factor that may influence dropout presents itself as a "red flag," this approach allows the less obvious factors to be identified and addressed early. "Some students are quiet dropouts, meaning they may not be identified as being at-risk in usual school settings," said Walsh. With a secure, proprietary database, each student in the intervention is linked to a tailored set of services and enrichment opportunities in the school or community that address their unique strengths and needs, with the school coordinator following up throughout the year. The database provides reminders, prompts, and automated reports that are designed to make the coordinator's work more efficient and allow reporting to principals and others in the school. "Dropping out of high school has serious individual and social consequences, including hurting employment possibilities, lifetime earnings, and physical health," said Walsh. "During the period we looked at, we estimate that the program led to approximately 375 fewer dropouts over the course of high school." "Given that each new high school graduate has been estimated to yield societal benefits of $260,300 over a dropout, staying in high school rather than dropping out is highly meaningful, with an estimated $97.6 million return to society from the groups examined in this study," Walsh said. Over the past 20 years, City Connects has been implemented in over 100 elementary and K-8 schools across Boston, Springfield, and Salem, Mass.; New York City, N.Y.; Dayton and Springfield, Ohio; Hartford, Conn.; Minneapolis, Minn.; and Indianapolis, Ind. City Connects is supported through a range of funding sources, including public school districts, state funding, and numerous foundations. Explore further New study looks at how educational culture impacts emotional stability Provided by American Educational Research Association Credit: University of Bristol Historians from the University of Bristol have uncovered compelling new evidence concerning the first English-led expedition to North America in 1499 hidden deep within huge parchment rolls and only legible by using ultra-violet light. Nine years ago, Dr. Evan Jones from the University's Department of History, published a long-lost letter from King Henry VII which revealed that William Weston, a Bristol merchant, was preparing an expedition to the "new found land" with the King's support. His venture was just a year after Christopher Columbus first landed on the mainland of South America and two years after the Venetian explorer, John Cabot, reached North America from the English port of Bristol. Weston's expedition was probably undertaken under the royal patent issued to John Cabot in 1496. But what happened afterwards was unclear. Now Dr. Jones and Margaret Condon, from the University of Bristol-led Cabot Project, have discovered that Weston received a 30 reward from the King in 1500 as a contribution to the merchant's expenses for his exploration of 'nova terra' (the 'new land'). The reward was equivalent to about six years' pay for an ordinary labourer, suggesting that the King was pleased with the outcome. The key entry was a result of Condon's painstaking detective work, trawling through official tax records. Each of the accounts take the form of a huge parchment roll, made from the skin of over two hundred sheep. Each 'membrane' in this roll is two metres long, while the note itself was so faint it is only legible under ultra violet light. "First time I read the roll, I almost missed it!" said Condon. "These rolls are beasts to deal with, but also precious and irreplaceable documents. Handling them, it sometimes feels like you're wrestling, very gently, with an obstreperous baby elephant!" The authors, publishing today in the journal Historical Research, further reveal that Cabot and Weston received rewards in January 1498, following an audience with Henry VII. It seems the two explorers were working together long before Weston went off on his 1499 expedition. Weston was probably one of the unnamed 'great seamen' from Bristol discussed by Italian diplomats and merchants in the winter of 1497/8. Letters the Italians sent back home from London confirm that Cabot had Bristol companions on his 1497 expedition and claim that his supporters from the port were 'the leading men' behind the 1498 expedition. Credit: University of Bristol The outcome of Cabot's final expedition in 1498 is unknown, and it is unclear whether any of the ships returned. That may explain King Henry's willingness to send out another expedition the following year, led by one of Cabot's deputies. Dr. Jones said: "Finding this new evidence is wonderful! What's amazing about these early Bristol voyages is how little we've ever known about them. "Cabot's voyages have been famous since Elizabethan times and were used to justify England's later colonisation of North America. But we've never known the identity of his English supporters. Until recently, we didn't even know that there was an expedition in 1499." Other evidence found by the Bristol researchers fill out Weston's life. "He was a bit of a gambler" says Condon, "but then so was Cabot. Perhaps you had to be, to risk your life on such a dangerous voyage into unknown seas." The new research also confirms two of the extraordinary claims made by a deceased historian, Dr. Alwyn Ruddock of the University of London. Over a 40-year period she unearthed much new evidence about England's first voyages to North America. She suggested that Cabot had explored most of the continent's east coast by 1500. But she never published her findings and, in an extraordinary turn of events, had all her notes destroyed on her death in 2005. One of Ruddock's claims was that a group of Italian friars, who accompanied Cabot's 1498 expedition, went on to establish Europe's first Christian colony and church in North America. Ruddock implied that Weston visited this Newfoundland settlement the following year, before proceeding up the coast of Labrador in search of a northwest passage around the continent. It was for this that Weston was rewarded. Since 2009, Jones and Condon have been working with an international group of historians and archaeologists to investigate Ruddock's claims and relocate the evidence that underpinned them. Condon added: "I think we've got well over half of the documents Ruddock located but there are definitely more, especially in Italy. She did a lot of work there, including in the private archives of some of Italy's great noble families. It's a thrill when another piece of evidence turns up." Although the Cabot Project has yet to find all the evidence that Alwyn Ruddock unearthed, they are determined to publish what they have as they go along. "We don't want to 'do a Ruddock'", said Dr. Jones. "We can't confirm all her claims and we think she got some things wrong. But it's better to publish research as you go along, rather than to sit on your finds for decades, while searching for the last pieces of the jigsaw." Condon added "I didn't believe Alwyn Ruddock when she wrote that William Weston was 'well-documented' but she was right. It just took a lot of time, determination and UV light to flesh out the details." More information: Margaret M. Condon and Evan T. Jones, 'William Weston: early voyager to the New World', Historical Research (August, 2018) Journal information: Historical Research Margaret M. Condon and Evan T. Jones, 'William Weston: early voyager to the New World',(August, 2018) The Facebook breach affecting some 50 million users and disclosed late last month is now under investigation by Ireland's data protection authority The security breach revealed on September 28 by Facebook affected tens of millions of accounts at the social network, which boasts more than 2.2 billion monthly users. On Wednesday, the Irish data authority said it was opening up a formal investigation into whether the world's biggest social network complied with tough new EU privacy regulations. - What happened? Hackers took advantage of a "complex interaction" between three software bugs, which required a degree of sophistication. The vulnerability was created by a change to a video uploading feature in July of 2017. It involved a flaw in a "See As" feature that showed Facebook what their profiles look like to other people at the social network. Using the feature generated digital keys, called "access tokens," which let users stay connected to their accounts without having to enter passwords anew. Hackers were able to steal copies of the digital keys, giving them the same access and control of accounts as their legitimate owners. On September 16, Facebook noticed a spike in activity that prompted it to investigate. On September 25, Facebook engineers determined hackers had launched a sophisticated attack exploiting the vulnerability. A fix was in place two days later and stolen tokens rendered useless. Facebook did not disclose when hackers first took advantage of the flaw, saying the investigation was early. - What data was leaked? Information hackers appeared interested in included names, genders, and home towns, but it was not clear for what purposes, the executives said in a telephone briefing. Facebook said it was still trying to figure out what, if anything, hackers did in violated accounts. It did not seem at the outset that messages or posts were tampered with, and there was no access to banking or password information, according to the social network. Given that digital keys opened Facebook doors wide to hackers, they would have had the ability to reach into third party applications linked to social network accounts. They would have been able to get into linked accounts including Messenger or Instagram, both owned by Facebook, but not into the social network's WhatsApp service. An analysis of logs of third-party applications turned up no sign they were meddled with by the hackers, Facebook said on October 2. - Who should worry? Facebook said that "up to 50 million accounts" were directly affected, meaning hackers swiped digital keys. According to the Data Protection Commission in Ireland, five million or fewer European users were among those affected. An additional 40 million accounts that used the "View As" feature had tokens reset although it didn't appear they were targeted by hackers. - Measures taken by Facebook? Facebook said it sealed the breach late on September 27 in California, where it has its headquarters, and alerted US law enforcement authorities as well as regulators in Ireland. Facebook invalidated "access tokens" at issue in the breach, requiring people to log in anew with passwords. The social network informed those involved by posting messages atop news feeds. - What is the risk to Facebook? The risks for Facebook depend on how it complied with various laws and regulations, including the new General Data Protection Regulation in Europe. Questions likely to be asked will include whether Facebook was fast enough notifying users of the breach and how well it protected accounts. Protection of people's data falls under the purview of the Federal Trade Commission in the United States, but states could also be interested in making sure local privacy or data protection laws were not violated. In Europe, the Facebook breach and how it was handled would be examined through the lens of the GDPR, which strengthened protection for personal data. Companies can now be fined a percentage of annual revenue if they break GDPR rules. Facebook appeared to have complied with a 72-hour deadline regarding publicly disclosing a hack, which could spare it a fine of more than a billion dollars. Explore further Facebook says no sign recent hack spread to other apps 2018 AFP Hand-drawn maps imitating the printed maps in the fist days of Hispano-American cartography. Credit: Archivo General de Indias. Ministerio de Educacion, Cultura y Deporte, Gobierno de Espana. Researchers from the Higher Technical School of Engineering (ETSI) of the University of Seville have published a study of a series of hand-drawn maps that copied the maps printed in the first days of Hispano-American cartography. From the start of the colonisation of America, the Spanish Crown needed to know and represent the overseas territories under its control and within its territorial borders. In the last third of the 16th century, surveys were designed to carry out the project to represent the new world. This great project is known as the "Relaciones Geograficas de Indias." The local authorities had to answer questions about geography, topography, toponomy, resources, etc. In addition, they had to draw up a map of the region or a "painting" that graphically described the geography of the region, indicating the geographical features, local population and routes of communication. Among these documents, the researchers have found a set of maps characterised by a peculiar style, as they try to imitate the style of maps that were drawn up in Europe in this period. These maps follow an inverse trend to that which can be observed in the first printed maps, which tried to imitate the style of hand-drawn maps. Hand-drawn maps imitating the printed maps in the fist days of Hispano-American cartography Credit: Archivo General de Indias. Ministerio de EducaciAn, Cultura y Deporte, Gobierno de EspaAa. After searching in the Archivo General de Indias (General Archive of the Indies) in Seville and in the Benson Latin American Collection at the University of Texas, in which they found a total of seven maps, a descriptive study of the maps has been published showing that all were done using a quill pen, that they come from different geographical areas, and that they were done in the period 1579-1580. "Looking at the documents that we found, it seems that the authors of these maps held the printed documents in such high esteem that they put more effort into reproducing the characteristics of printed maps than in describing the geography of the regions that their maps represented. That is to say, they did not imitate the art of the maps, but the prints on landscapes that the books illustrated, images that they would have known, given the wide availability that these books had in Central America, as well as Europe, in the 16th century," says University of Seville teacher Manuel Morato. Although all the maps were done in the European style, they also show some characteristics that suggest the influence of indigenous cartography, like footprints on the routes and eddies in the rivers, in which fish can also be seen on the surface of the water. Having these indigenous conventions in coexistence with European cartographic characteristics suggests an effort to adapt the two cartographic styles to each other. "The authors of these maps might have unconsciously mixed European and native conventions," the researcher adds. Hand-drawn maps imitating the printed maps in the fist days of Hispano-American cartography Credit: Archivo General de Indias. Ministerio de EducaciAn, Cultura y Deporte, Gobierno de EspaAa. In addition, the experts have identified the influence of another renaissance practice that originated in the portolan charts: drawings of figurative scenes of indigenous people and animals of the region, like deer, rabbits, vultures and armadillos. "Possibly, the disproportionate representation of these animals is a way of emphasising the animal species that were characteristic of the region, or, as in the case of the armadillo, highlighting those exotic species that were unknown in Spain." It is possible that the maps were the result of the desire of their authors to achieve a cartographic ideal: the aesthetic of printed maps. They are a hybrid product, as they not only show influences of maps carved in wood, but also printed maps like those used as illustrations in books. Furthermore, they also contain other conventions taken from indigenous traditions, as well as pre-renaissance European practices. Explore further Catalogue of planetary maps highlights the evolving view of the solar system More information: Manuel Morato-Moreno, Manuscript Maps That Imitate Printed Maps: Some Examples in Early Spanish American Cartography, Cartographica: The International Journal for Geographic Information and Geovisualization (2018). Manuel Morato-Moreno, Manuscript Maps That Imitate Printed Maps: Some Examples in Early Spanish American Cartography,(2018). DOI: 10.3138/cart.53.2.2017-0016 At 1:55 a.m. EDT (0555 UTC) on Oct. 3, 2018 the MODIS instrument that flies aboard NASA's Aqua satellite gathered infrared data on Hurricane Leslie. Strongest thunderstorms circled the center and were in a thick band northeast of center where cloud top temperatures were as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 53 Celsius). Credit: NASA/NRL NASA's Aqua satellite captured an infrared image of Hurricane Leslie that revealed strong storms circled the center. At 1:55 a.m. EDT (0555 UTC) on Oct. 3 the MODIS instrument that flies aboard NASA's Aqua satellite gathered infrared data on Leslie. Infrared data provides temperature information. Strongest thunderstorms were fragmented as they circled the center and were in a thick band northeast of center where MODIS found cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 53 Celsius). NASA research has shown that cloud tops with temperatures that cold were high in the troposphere and have the ability to generate heavy rain. The National Hurricane Center or NHC noted "Deep convection surrounding the center of Leslie has become better organized overnight, with the development of a ragged eye in infrared satellite images." A microwave image revealed a well-defined low-level eye with a ring of broken convection surrounding it. At 5 a.m. EDT (0900 UTC), the center of Hurricane Leslie was located near latitude 29.6 degrees north and longitude 56.9 degrees west. That's about 505 miles (810 km) east-southeast of Bermuda. Leslie is nearly stationary, and little motion is expected today. A northward motion is forecast to begin tonight, and this motion should continue through Friday night. Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 75 mph (120 kph) with higher gusts. Some additional strengthening is forecast during the next day or so. NHC noted "The hurricane is forecast to remain within favorable environmental conditions consisting of warm water and low vertical wind shear over the next day or two. These conditions should allow for some additional strengthening." Explore further NASA finds bulk of Tropical Storm Leslie's storms northwest of center At 2:30 a.m. EDT (0630 UTC) on Oct. 3, 2018 the MODIS instrument that flies aboard NASA's Aqua satellite gathered infrared data on Hurricane Sergio. Strongest thunderstorms circled the center where cloud top temperatures were as cold as (yellow) minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 62.2 Celsius). Credit: NASA/NRL Very powerful storms ringed the eye of Hurricane Sergio in infrared imagery from NASA's Aqua satellite. Sergio is a major hurricane in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. At 2:30 a.m. EDT (0630 UTC) on Oct. 3 the MODIS instrument that flies aboard NASA's Aqua satellite gathered infrared data on Sergio. Infrared data provides temperature information. Strongest thunderstorms wit coldest cloud tops appeared in the eyewall of the hurricane and extended outward from the center. MODIS found cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 62.2 Celsius). NASA research has shown that cloud tops with temperatures that cold were high in the troposphere and have the ability to generate heavy rain. The National Hurricane Center or NHC noted at 5 a.m. EDT (0900 UTC), the center of Hurricane Sergio was located near latitude 12.3 degrees north and longitude 116.7 degrees west. Sergio is moving toward the west-northwest near 12 mph (19 kph). Fortunately, Sergio is far from land areas. It is about 855 miles (1,380 km) south-southwest of the southern tip of Baja California, Mexico. A west-northwestward to northwestward motion at a slightly slower forward speed is expected over the next few days. Maximum sustained winds are near 115 mph (185 kph) with higher gusts. Sergio is a category 3 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Some strengthening is forecast during the next day or so, with weakening expected to begin by Friday. Explore further NASA finds Tropical Storm Sergio on the verge of hurricane status NASA and its Russian counterpart Roscosmos "are both investigating the incident to determine the cause" of a small hole found on a Russian spacecraft attached to the International Space Station NASA expressed doubts Wednesday over a theory floated in Russia that a tiny hole that caused an air leak on the International Space Station was the result of sabotage. The breach detected on August 29-30 in a Russian space craft docked at the orbiting station was not the result of a manufacturing defect, according to the Russian space agency, which says it is investigating the possibility that it was drilled maliciously. But NASA, the US space agency, countered in a statement that ruling out defects "does not necessarily mean the hole was created intentionally or with mal-intent." Russian space agency Roscosmos immediately launched an investigation into the hole, and its chief official Dmitry Rogozin went on television days later to say it could have been the result of foul play either back on Earth or by astronauts in space. "Where it was made will be established by a second commission, which is at work now," said Rogozin, a former Russian deputy prime minister who was placed under US sanctions over the Ukraine crisis in 2014. The Russian daily Kommersant reported that an investigation at home was probing the possibility that US astronauts deliberately drilled the hole in order to get a sick colleague sent back homesomething Russian officials later denied. "NASA and Roscosmos are both investigating the incident to determine the cause," NASA said on Wednesday. ISS astronauts are planning a spacewalk in November to gather more information on the hole, which was quickly sealed. An astronaut and cosmonaut are due to travel to the ISS on October 11 aboard a Russian Soyuz MS-10 spacecraft from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine plans to meet Rogozin - their first in-person encounterwhen he attends the launch. The six-person ISS crew includes two Russians, two Americans and a German representing the European Space Agency. Explore further Roscosmos and NASA chiefs discuss mysterious space leak 2018 AFP Credit: CC0 Public Domain Until recently, the presumptive targets for massive data theft were considered to be companies that lacked sophisticated cybersecurity or didn't take the issue seriously enough. But since late 2016, some of the biggest names in cutting-edge tech have seen their most sensitive customer dataincluding the content of emails, credit card numbers, and cellphone numbersfall into the hands of hackers, or in some cases shared such data with third parties without the consumers' knowledge or consent. The list is getting long fast. Thieves downloaded information on 25 million U.S. Uber riders. The credit reporting agency Equifax had 143 million customer files stolen by hackers. Cambridge Analytica harvested data from at least 87 million Facebook users to target with political ads. This summer, Google admitted to Congress that app developers and others have access to users' Gmail. Data scientists found major security flaws in AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint phones that left customers exposed. And just last week, Facebook revealed its largest breach, with 50 million users affected. It said phone numbers supplied to Facebook by users for two-factor authentication security had been shared with advertisers. With so many violationsand so few repercussionssenior executives from Google, Apple, Amazon, and Twitter, among other firms, were summoned before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation last week to explain why data privacy breaches continue, and to discuss some remedies. Sen. John Thune (R., S.D.), the committee chairman, said it's no longer a question of whether there needs to be a federal law to protect consumer data privacy but "what shape the law should take." Another hearing is planned later this month. Urs Gasser, LL.M. '03, is executive director of the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University and a professor of practice at Harvard Law School. His research and teaching focus on information law and policy, and he writes frequently about privacy, data protection, and the regulation of digital technology. Gasser discussed the state of data privacy with the Gazette via email and suggested what might be done to protect users from companies that profit from people's data. Q&A GAZETTE: As someone who has been studying data privacy for a long time, are you surprised by this string of failures? GASSER: What is perhaps most surprising is the frequency with which such privacy-relevant incidents now become public, as well as their prevalence and scale. In terms of the underlying causes and effectiveness of responses, it's important to analyze each incident separately. A data breach caused by external hackers is not the same problem and doesn't require the same countermeasures as privacy threats resulting from data-sharing agreements between an online platform and advertisers that are at the core of the business model. That being said, the effects in terms of user privacy might be quite similar. It is also noteworthy that the GDPR [European Union General Data Protection Regulation] addresses a broad range of data-privacy violations, and it will be interesting to see whether the Facebook breach in particular will trigger GDPR enforcement action. GAZETTE: Many of the biggest technology companies continue either to allow or to fail to prevent their customers' data from falling into the hands of advertisers, app developers, and other third parties. Despite frequent promises of better privacy protections, little has changed. Why aren't these companies taking this more seriously? GASSER: To be fair, companies have made important efforts to better protect user data through a broad range of measures, including privacy dashboards, enhanced privacy and security features, such as end-to-end encryption, upgrades to their privacy policies, and more. But there is indeed a deeper structural problem at the core of the privacy battles of our time that makes current efforts feel insufficient. Most of today's tech business models are based on targeted advertisement, which relies on collecting, sharing, and analyzing vast amounts of user data. Simply put, to really prioritize user privacy would also mean to compromise an underlying business model that has been very successful in economic terms and produced some of the wealthiest companies in the world. GAZETTE: Lawmakers have called on tech companies to better secure their user information and have hinted that they may begin strictly regulating how data is handled if the companies don't shore up data security. Will Congress do anything soon to hold these companies accountable, and, if not, what would it take for the federal government to take real action? GASSER: In the current political climate, I'm doubtful that anything dramaticsay, like GDPRwill happen at the federal level anytime soon. But we see a lot of consumer privacy activity at the state level. Consider the recent enactment of the California Consumer Privacy Act, which is likely to be very influential given its scope of application, or Vermont's data-broker legislation. Combined with the enhanced consumer protection agenda by many State A.G.s, that's where the action is until Congress comes up with something meaningful. And, of course, there's also the increased pressure coming from the European legislative and data-protection authorities, based on the new protections and instruments set forth by the GDPR. Some argue that there is a "market for privacy" emerging that will provide incentives, particularly to privacy startups, to be more privacy-friendly. GAZETTE: Is it time to declare the voluntary-privacy-policy era a failure and start treating these businesses like public utilities? GASSER: I agree that the self-regulatory model has failed to provide adequate levels of consumer privacy protection in today's tech environment. Where to go from here is more difficult to say, though. Many privacy advocates point to the GDPR as a new gold standard. I'm more skeptical, as such an approach is deeply rooted in European values, culture, and political economy and cannot be transplanted in a "cut and paste" way. It also comes with some serious drawbacks, in terms of compliance costs, for instance. I think it's time to rethink data privacy more fundamentally. You can find some of my thoughts here. To introduce fiduciary duties for tech companies is another interesting new way to think about some of the structural problems mentioned before. GAZETTE: Who's to blame for where we are now? Are users partly at fault for not making more of a fuss about privacy violations? Do most people understand how much of their information is in the hands of others, and how it's being used? GASSER: I would agree that it's too simple to just blame the tech companies for the status quo. I think we need to look at the privacy crisis as an ecosystem-level problem, with many forces at playtechnological, market, behavioral, and legaland many actors involved, including users who often make privacy decisions based on incomplete information and with cognitive biases at play. That is why I argue in my own work in favor of a more holistic approach to the future of privacy, which combines strong legal protections with digital literacy and educational efforts, next-gen privacy-enhancing technologies, and economic incentives for more privacy-friendly services, among other elements in the strategy, as opposed to putting my bets on GDPR-like laws alone. Such an approach would also include smarter user education and empowerment. GAZETTE: People can't opt out of using Google, and won't decide not to have a cellphone, so what can people do to protect themselves? GASSER: There are a number of online privacy check-ups available and a series of privacy self-help tools, including privacy browsers or VPNs [virtual private networks], to name just two. Some of them are provided by tech companies themselves, and some are offered by consumer organizations such as EPIC or EFF. I would very much recommend that people make use of these offerings, even if they are only tactical in the sense that they understandably can't address the structural root cause of the problem. Explore further EU warns Facebook not to lose control of data security This story is published courtesy of the Harvard Gazette, Harvard University's official newspaper. For additional university news, visit Harvard.edu. A group of academics, including Associate Professor Nicola Nelson from Victoria University of Wellington's School of Biological Sciences, has today published a paper showcasing New Zealand's success in conservation over the past 30 years. The paper, published in the Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand, uses seven case studies to explore successful species conservation in New Zealand. "We believe that promoting successful examples of conservation will help the wider community realise the importance of conservation in reversing the current extinction crisis we are facing," says Associate Professor Nelson. The seven case studies aimed to define what makes a conservation effort successful, looking at whether particular actions or the support of particular people had an effect. The authors also aimed to discover whether these conservation efforts would continue to help each species, and also whether the same techniques would work where other conservation efforts have failed. The seven conservation 'winners' the paper looked at were the Armstrong's Whipcord Hebe, the Mercury Islands Tusked Weta, the Common River Galaxid, the tuatara, the saddleback, the long-tailed bat, and the humpback whale. According to the researchers, these species have all seen improvement due to dedicated conservation efforts. In some cases, new populations have sprung up, some have seen growth in existing populations, and some have seen an increase in knowledge about the species which has led to better protection and restoration. The case studies suggested several key factors that are important to conservation success. "These species received long-term, species-specific attention," Associate Professor Nelson says. "They had dedicated programmes and multiple parties collaborating to ensure they achieved conservation success. Public engagement is also helpful." The paper's findings also suggest that ongoing management, ensuring genetic diversity, and research on the impact of climate change on various species will be vital to conservation. However, many of the techniques used for these conservation 'winners' wouldn't be feasible for other species, Associate Professor Nelson says. For example, the dedicated attention provided to the tuatara would not be affordable for the other lizard species in New Zealand. Projects that focus on a single species may also not be the most effective optionalthough evidence suggests that single-species and multi-species projects are equally cost-effective, there may be other unmeasured factors that make multi-species projects more successful. "Multi-species conservation projects like sanctuaries protect multiple species, improve ecosystems, and raise awareness of conservation issues," Associate Professor Nelson says. "Including a more holistic view of conserving species as part of functioning ecosystems may be a way to ensure the conservation of all species, and not just the charismatic organisms." The main goal of this paper, Associate Professor Nelson says, was to contribute to ongoing efforts to accentuate the positive effects of conservation. "There is no reason why the current extinction crisis facing New Zealand and the world cannot be stopped and reversed by extending the lessons learned from the winners more widely," Associate Professor Nelson says. Explore further New tool helps conservationists make smarter decisions All the green space in our cities including trees, shrubs and groundcover is part of the urban forest. Credit: Shutterstock With increasing heat in the Pacific Ocean making our weather both more variable and more powerful, the likelihood of a dry, hot El Nino summer is on the rise. And it means our urban trees are going to be thirsty. But now, a new approach that uses water sensitive urban design (WSUD) is helping combat the harsh effects of climate change on the health of our city trees. And it's a crucial collaboration between researchers, urban planners, engineers and local councils that is helping make it a reality. Our Urban Forests Urban forests aren't the same as wilderness forests all the green space in our cities including trees, shrubs and ground cover is part of the 'urban forest'. Associate Professor Stephen Livesley from the School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences at the University of Melbourne, says urban trees are not only the lungs of our cities, but they also provide a wealth of health benefits to people living around them. "They cool us down, reduce air pollution and contribute to our mental and physical health," says Dr Livesley. "They also constitute habitats for birds and help maintain biodiversity." Water sensitive urban design uses biofiltration systems that cleans stormwater runoff before it enters our waterways. Integrating trees into these systems is a win-win, as they can improve water retention in the biofiltration systems and redirect stormwater to thirsty trees, which ultimately contributes to a healthier urban forest. Water sensitive urban design cleans stormwater runoff before it enters our waterways and redirects it to trees. Credit: Shutterstock Dr Livesley says that urban trees will experience harsher conditions in the coming years as we feel the effects of increasing temperatures, so it's now more important than ever to integrate these new design systems so our urban forest thrives. "The challenge is maintaining and growing the urban forest under the climate change and urban densification that we know is going to happen in the future," says Dr Livesley. And the solutions don't have to be high tech. Catching A Storm Vaughn Grey, a Master of Philosophy student at the University of Melbourne, worked with Dr Livesley, stormwater expert Professor Tim Fletcher and plant biologist Dr Chris Szota to design a simple system where holes are cut into the curb on the side of the road to allow stormwater to flow directly to tree roots. The team found that trees planted in pits fed by stormwater grew at two times the rate of trees planted without any stormwater control measure. "We showed that you can grow trees at twice the rate when planted in water sensitive urban design systems" says Dr Livesley. This research is now being applied in the real world. The City of Melbourne is exploring different water sensitive urban design systems and is looking at implementing them for tree systems in and around the new Metro train stations in Melbourne's CBD to help them reach their canopy cover and water-use targets. All roads, minor or large, can be engineered and constructed to capture stormwater. Credit: Shutterstock Dr Livesley says this serves as an example to other municipalities of how collaboration with water sensitive urban design researchers and practitioners can yield great benefits for the urban forest and the city overall. Supporting Green Change To assist councils and urban planners, Dr Szota is developing a water sensitive urban design tool kit that can be applied to real world scenarios. He says all roads, minor or large, can be engineered and constructed to capture stormwater. But there are challenges with moving and storing stormwater in dense urban landscapes, because it has to compete for space with other underground services like gas, telecommunications and other stormwater infrastructure. Dr Szota is focusing on how to improve understanding of the potential of water sensitive urban design among professionals from a variety of fields. "For instance, engineers have been taught for thousands of years to get the water away from the road, to protect the city's infrastructure," he says. "We need to understand why they're taking up what we're suggesting and how we can communicate that the risk from storing stormwater can be easily managed. My next strategy is risk management." Learning For A Green Future Another key element in growing our urban forest with available stormwater is education. Governments need to be convinced that sustaining urban forests is worth the investment. Credit: Shutterstock Later this year, the first Australian School of Urban Forestry opens at the University of Melbourne in close collaboration with the City of Melbourne. According to Associate Professor John Rayner, who helped develop the School's curriculum, it's designed to challenge urban forest professionals getting them to think about where they are now and where they might go in the future. Encouraging local government institutions to support urban forests is another challenge. Crucial to getting urban forests to thrive and survive through challenging summer conditions is convincing local governments that water sensitive urban designs are worth the financial investment. "More thought and a little more money needs to be spent on planting trees for a future urban forest, because just digging a hole in the asphalt and popping a tree in does not guarantee that tree's survival," says Dr Livesley. He says this highlights the importance of communicating ideas and collaborating across disciplines. Ecologists, plant physiologists, engineers, urban planners and landscape architects should all come together to communicate the challenges and develop solutions. And that, says Dr Rayner, means we need to look to the future. "We genuinely want to see better and more urban forests and this means turning theory into a reality." Explore further 20 percent more trees in megacities would mean cleaner air and water, lower carbon and energy use Schematic view of the Milky Way showing six isotropic extraterrestrial emission processes forming spherical shells filled by radio signals. The outer radii of the spherical shells are proportional to the time at which the signals were first emitted, while the thicknesses are proportional to the duration of the emissions. In this example, the Earth is illuminated by one of these signals. Credit: Claudio Grimaldi / EPFL Could there be another planet in the universe with a society at the same stage of technological advancement as ours? To find out, EPFL scientist Claudio Grimaldi, working in association with the University of California, Berkeley, has developed a statistical model that gives researchers a new tool in the search for the kind of signals that an extraterrestrial society might emit. His method, described in an article appearing today in PNAS, could also make the search cheaper and more efficient. Atrophysics initially wasn't Grimaldi's thing; he was interested more in the physics of condensed matter. Working at EPFL's Laboratory of Physics of Complex Matter, his research involved calculating the probabilities of carbon nanotubes exchanging electrons. But then he wondered: If the nanotubes were stars and the electrons were signals generated by extraterrestrial societies, could we calculate the probability of detecting those signals more accurately? This is not pie-in-the-sky researchscientists have been studying this possibility for nearly 60 years. Several research projects concerning the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) have been launched since the late 1950s, mainly in the United States. The idea is that an advanced civilization on another planet could be generating electromagnetic signals, and scientists on Earth might be able to pick up those signals using the latest high-performance radio telescopes. Despite considerable advances in radio astronomy and the increase in computing power since then, none of those projects has led to anything concrete. Some signals without identifiable origin have been recorded, like the "Wow!" signal in 1977, but none of them has been repeated or seems credible enough to be attributable to alien life. But that doesn't mean scientists have given up. On the contrary, SETI has seen renewed interest following the discovery of the many exoplanets orbiting the billions of suns in our galaxy. Researchers have designed sophisticated new instrumentslike the Square Kilometre Array, a giant radio telescope under construction in South Africa and Australia, with a total collecting area of one square kilometerthat could pave the way to promising breakthroughs. And Russian entrepreneur Yuri Milner recently announced an ambitious program called Breakthrough Listen, which aims to cover 10 times more sky than previous searches and scan a much wider band of frequencies. Milner intends to fund his initiative with $100 million over 10 years. "In reality, expanding the search to these magnitudes only increases our chances of finding something by very little. And if we still don't detect any signals, we can't necessarily conclude with much more certainty that there is no life out there," says Grimaldi. The advantage of Grimaldi's statistical model is that it lets scientists interpret both the success and failure to detect signals at varying distances from the Earth. His model employs Bayes' theorem to calculate the remaining probability of detecting a signal within a given radius around our planet. For example, even if no signal is detected within a radius of 1,000 light-years, there is still an over 10 percent chance that the Earth is within range of hundreds of similar signals from elsewhere in the galaxy, but that our radio telescopes are currently not powerful enough to detect them. However, that probability rises to nearly 100 percent if even just one signal is detected within the 1,000-light-year radius. In that case, we could be almost certain that our galaxy is full of alien life. After factoring in other parameters like the size of the galaxy and how closely packed its stars are, Grimaldi estimates that the probability of detecting a signal becomes very slight only at a radius of 40,000 light-years. In other words, if no signals are detected at this distance from the Earth, we could reasonably conclude that no other civilization at the same level of technological development as ours is detectable in the galaxy. But so far, scientists have been able to search for signals within a radius of just 40 light-years. So there's still a way to go. Especially since these search methods can't detect alien civilizations that may be in primordial stages or that are highly advanced but haven't followed the same technological trajectory as ours. Researchers, sherpas and porters trekking along the Trakarding-Trambau Glacier System to research the seismic noise of ice in the Himalayas in Nepal. Credit: Podolskiy In 2017, Evgeny Podolskiy spent more than a week trekking through the Nepalese Himalayas to test the seismic activity of the Trakarding-Trambau Glacier system. In October, the research team and a group of sherpas and porters traveled to an open, debris-free glacier about five kilometers (3.1 miles) above sea level, in full view of Mount Everest. "It was an amazing experience because it's such a magnificent area to work in. Basically I have lunch looking at Everest," said Podolskiy, a glaciologist working at the Arctic Research Center in Hokkaido University, Japan. But the researchers felt the real shock in their tents after dark. "We hear this loud boom," Podolskiy said. "We noticed that our glacier is bursting, or exploding with cracks at night." Podolskiy couldn't see what was happening, but during the three weeks he and his colleagues were kept up shivering in their tents listening to the noise, Podolskiy began to suspect there was some difference between the day and night, possibly due to temperature changes, that was causing the booms. It wasn't until Podolskiy was back in the office and he looked at the seismographic data the researchers gathered in the field that he discovered what was happening. The researchers found abrupt nightly temperature drops due to the glacier's high altitude caused the explosive cracks. Podolskiy says while the temperature could drop to around -15 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit) at night, the researchers would often be working in t-shirts by day. While much of the glacier was protected from such large temperature swings by a thick blanket of debris, the areas of open surface of the ice were more vulnerable to the elements. When the temperature dropped, the glacier would contract, leading to a great deal of minute ice cracks which caused ice quakes. The very largest of these cracks were heard by the scientists at night, though their seismographs picked up a lot of additional smaller action. The authors of the new study describing the phenomenon note this is the first time such a large amount of seismic activity due to the thermal fracturing has been observed at relatively warm temperatures and outside polar regions. Researchers, sherpas and porters trekking along the Trakarding-Trambau Glacier System to research the seismic noise of ice in the Himalayas in Nepal. Credit: Podolskiy "Local ice turns out to be very sensitive to this high rate of change," said Podolskiy, who is the lead author of a new study in Geophysical Research Letters, a journal of the American Geophysical Union. The new research could help scientists monitor the behavior of glaciers in remote areas like the Himalayas. Podolskiy said the Himalayas have one of the largest stores of ice on Earth, but there has been little research on glacier cracking there. These glaciers are also losing mass much faster than the global average, and researchers are currently uncertain about the causes. Podolskiy said researchers often focus on the noisy end of glaciers, which break apart in massive calving events in the Arctic or Antarctica and produce ice quakes. However, relatively little attention has been focused on measuring the more passive seismic noise of slowly flowing glaciers at high altitudes. Advances in seismic technology now allow researchers to detect vibrations down to the micrometer, allowing for the characterization and continuous monitoring of processes otherwise nearly impossible to observe. The seismic noise of glaciers can also be used to monitor the near-surface structure and the damage state of ice. Learning more about how these processes work is critical as they could also play a large role in glacial mass loss, which can contribute to sea level changes, according to the study's authors. While the scientific discoveries were important for the future of glaciology, Podolskiy said the expedition was also thrilling on a personal level. "It was a big adventure for myself and for the landscape," he said. Explore further Network for tracking earthquakes exposes glacier activity More information: Evgeny A. Podolskiy et al. Nocturnal Thermal Fracturing of a Himalayan Debris-Covered Glacier Revealed by Ambient Seismic Noise, Geophysical Research Letters (2018). Journal information: Geophysical Research Letters Evgeny A. Podolskiy et al. Nocturnal Thermal Fracturing of a Himalayan Debris-Covered Glacier Revealed by Ambient Seismic Noise,(2018). DOI: 10.1029/2018GL079653 This story is republished courtesy of AGU Blogs (http://blogs.agu.org), a community of Earth and space science blogs, hosted by the American Geophysical Union. Read the original story here. Frogs of the genus Diasporus, such as this individual, are among the most common nocturnal frogs in El Cope, Panama, to survive following an outbreak of chytrid fungus in 2004. Credit: Graziella DiRenzo Amphibian biologists from around the world watched in horror in 2004, as the frogs of El Cope, Panama, began dying by the thousands. The culprit: Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, a deadly fungus more commonly known as chytrid fungus. Within months, roughly half of the frog species native to the area went locally extinct. A new study led by University of Maryland researchers suggests that, within a decade, the species remaining in El Cope developed the ability to coexist with chytrid fungus. In a field study spanning the years 2010-2014, the researchers found that frogs infected with the fungus survived at a nearly identical rate compared with uninfected frogs. The results, published October 3, 2018 in the journal Ecological Applications, suggest that frog populations in El Cope underwent ecological and/or evolutionary changes that enabled the community as a whole to persist, despite severe species losses. According to the researchers, the results could mean good news for other hot spots of amphibian biodiversity hit hard by the chytrid fungus, such as South America and Australia. "Our results are really promising because they lead us to conclude that the El Cope frog community is stabilizing and not drifting to extinction," said Graziella DiRenzo (Ph.D. '16, biological sciences), now a postdoctoral researcher at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and the lead author of the research paper. "That's a big concern with chytrid worldwide. Before this study, we didn't know a lot about the communities that remain after an outbreak. In some areas, it's still a black box." The emerald glass frog (Espadarana prosoblepon) is one of the most abundant species at the study site in El Cope, Panama, following an outbreak of chytrid fungus in 2004. Credit: Graziella DiRenzo DiRenzo and her colleagues returned to the same small, 2-square-kilometer field site in El Cope every year from 2010 to 2014. They broke the field site down into smaller, 20-meter subsites, repeatedly sampling the subsites several days in a row within a season. Each time, the researchers tested individual frogs for the presence of the fungus while assessing the severity of any disease symptoms. The researchers then entered this data into a statistical model they developed to assess disease dynamics in communities beset by an outbreak. The frequent, repeated sampling of individual frogs in the field allowed the team to minimize biases by correcting the model for any animals that were present but unseen. The results enabled the researchers to conclude that infected frogs were surviving at the same rate as uninfected frogs. This observation strongly suggested that the frog species remaining in El Cope developed the ability to tolerate the fungus and survive its deadly effects. "Our study found that, even though there are a lot of infected individuals, about 98 percent of them are infected at very low levels," said Karen Lips, a professor of biology at UMD and the senior author of the study. "We know that, early on, several species played a key role in spreading infection, like Typhoid Mary. But some of these species are now gone, so the entire ecosystem is totally different. It's almost not comparable to what was there before." The Canal Zone tree frog (Hypsiboas rufitelus) also survived an outbreak of chytrid fungus in El Cope, Panama, in 2004. Credit: Graziella DiRenzo DiRenzo, Lips and their colleagues suggest that the El Cope frog community stabilized through an effect known as "eco-evolutionary rescue." In this scenario, some species may have evolved tolerance to the fungus while other highly infectious, "Typhoid Mary" species died off and stopped contributing to the spread of the pathogen. The fungus itself may have also become less virulent and the frog community as a whole may have undergone other types of restructuring. The researchers note that, because the frog community in El Cope had been well-studied for years before the 2004 outbreak, the research site provides a rare window to assess changes to a frog community as a result of widespread chytrid infection. If the community has stabilized here, the researchers say, it is likely that other hard-hit frog communities elsewhere in the world may have undergone similar adaptationseven where disease has reduced the overall number of species and/or individuals. "The frogs of El Cope are not doing great, but they're hanging on. The fact that some species survived is the most important thing," Lips said. "If a species goes extinct right off the bat, it's out of options. We know how all these species responded to the initial invasion. Now we know how the survivors are responding to continuing infection. We know there are several sites in the world that probably went through the same thing. If enough frog species in a given place can survive and persist, then hopefully someday a vibrant new frog community will replace what was lost." The research paper, "Eco-Evolutionary Rescue Promotes Host-pathogen Coexistence," Graziella DiRenzo, Elise Zipkin, Evan Campbell Grant, J. Andrew Royle, Ana Longo, Kelly Zamudio and Karen Lips, was published in the journal Ecological Applications on October 3, 2018. When mixed with a precise amount of water, the polymer solidifies into a soft paste at room temperature. Credit: Swanson School of Engineering/Sachin Velankar In Kurt Vonnegut's sci-fi classic Cat's Cradle, ice-nine is a substance capable of raising water's melting point from 32 to 114.4 degrees Fahrenheit. Once in contact with water, it spreads instantly and indefinitely, leaving frozen oceans and chilling consequences in its wake. Luckily, as Vonnegut explains in the epigraph, 'Nothing in this book is true.' When he wrote the novel in 1963, he may have been right. Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered the fantastic behavior of a liquid polymer capable of freezing water at room temperature. Beyond giving credence to Vonnegut's prophetic imagination, the resulting mixture seemingly defies the second law of thermodynamics, which states that within an isolated system, entropy always increases. "When you mix two pure components together, the entropy (or the degree of disorder), always increases," explains John Keith, assistant professor of chemical engineering and Richard King Mellon Faculty Fellow in Energy at Pitt's Swanson School of Engineering. "That disorder almost always causes mixtures to have a lower freezing point than either of the components individually, not higher." The mixture of salt and water, for example, freezes at lower temperatures than either salt or water individually. This quality makes salt well-suited for melting ice on roads and sidewalks in the winter. However, when a particular polymerknown as polyoxacyclobutane (POCB) is mixed with water, it raises the mixture's freezing point from 32 degrees Fahrenheit to about 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The researchers published their findings in the American Chemical Society (ACS) journal Macromolecules. This behavior is not altogether unprecedented. Mixing certain metals in specific proportions can create alloys that have higher melting points than the individual metals. Because alloys are comprised of at least two differently sized atoms, favorable combinations of atoms can weave together to make strong chemical bonds that counteract the second law of thermodynamics. "This behavior, in which the mixture melts higher than its components, is well-known in metals. But it is very unusual, amongst non-metals," says Sachin Velankar, associate professor of chemical engineering at Pitt and expert in polymer science. "To the best of my knowledge, POCB seems to be the only substance to display this behavior with water." POCB originally came to the university from chemical manufacturer DuPont as part of a research collaboration between the company and Robert Enick, vice chair of research for the chemical engineering department. A graduate student working in Dr. Enick's lab noticed the liquid polymer got cloudy when mixed with drops of water, but more curiously, the resulting combinationor "hydrate"was a soft paste (similar to peanut butter) when a precise amount of water was added. Even more oddly, experiments on the material showed that well-ordered crystallites were forming between two liquids. Dr. Keith and colleagues used computer modeling to find a stable hydrate structure where water molecules thread themselves throughout the polymer to form hydrogen bonds that hold the material together like tiny zippers. "It takes less than an hour for the mixture to self-assemble at room temperature, and the final texture is like lip balm," Dr. Keith says. The Pitt researchers scoured scholarly journals to find scientific references to hydrates of POCB, which was produced by DuPont in the late 2000s with the name "Cerenol" because it's made from corn (a "cereal" grain). At first their search came up short, but a conversation with Eric Beckman, Distinguished Service Professor of chemical engineering and co-director of Pitt's Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation, tipped them off to other names the polymer might have been called in the past. Shortly after, the Pitt researchers found that the hydrate structure had already been discovered by a team of Japanese researchers in the late 1960s. "The polymer goes by four or five names, and some are non-intuitive," says Dr. Velankar. "After we found the previous studies, we realized we realized that we had discovered an exciting facet of an old finding." The Japanese team, using similar X-ray techniques as those interpreted by Watson and Crick to identify the double helix in DNA, had found similar hydrate structures by melting high molecular weight forms of the polymer that were solid at room temperature. That study, which also appeared in ACS Macromolecules in 1970, has gone relatively unnoticed in the five decades since its publication. The innovation from the Pitt researchers is that similar hydrates can form spontaneously with lower molecular weight forms of the polymer that are liquid at room temperature, thus eliminating the need for melting before mixing with water. "The polymer can also gently suck out humidity from the air naturally," says Dr. Velankar. "We felt this behavior was a curiosity, but a very interesting one. Our research has been mostly a fundamental exploration of a very unusual phenomenon, but there are many potential applications to consider." The Pitt Engineering researchers have already collaborated with Alexander Star in Pitt's Department of Chemistry to coat a nanotube electrode with the polymer to turn it into a computer memory device. The ACS journal Chemistry of Materials published the results of the study. One of the potential applications will certainly not be a doomsday device like Vonnegut's ice-nine because POCB cannot spread instantly or indefinitely throughout water sources. Instead of triggering the apocalypse, researchers at the University of Pittsburgh think discovering this polymer's freezing behavior could herald new innovations. "Now that we know an example of a polymer-water mixture with these qualities, we can now search for other mixtures that might have other interesting properties," says Dr. Keith. "I'm very optimistic that this is an exciting new class of crystalline materials that spontaneously form from mixtures of liquids." Explore further International effort to uncover properties of polymer nanoparticles More information: Joyita Banerjee et al. Liquids That Freeze When Mixed: Cocrystallization and LiquidLiquid Equilibrium in PolyoxacyclobutaneWater Mixtures, Macromolecules (2018). Joyita Banerjee et al. Liquids That Freeze When Mixed: Cocrystallization and LiquidLiquid Equilibrium in PolyoxacyclobutaneWater Mixtures,(2018). DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.8b00239 Michael T. Chido et al. Oligomer Hydrate Crystallization Improves Carbon Nanotube Memory, Chemistry of Materials (2018). DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemmater.8b00964 Journal information: Chemistry of Materials Mark Zuckerberg is facing a major public reckoning following the massive Facebook data breach as a cascade of crises catch up with the social media giant. This isn't the first time the Facebook CEO's leadership has been questioned, but the ever-growing list of problemsCambridge Analytica, Russian election interference, the spread of disinformationis prompting tough new scrutiny of Zuckerberg's leadership and his management team. Attackers exploited three flaws in Facebook's code to break into tens of millions of accounts. "The hack is just another symptom of a bigger problem, which is that the company is not well managed," Pivotal Research Group analyst Brian Wieser told USA TODAY. Facebook's popularity and profitability have deflected concerns in the past, but its track record over the past two years should concern investors, analysts are warning. On Tuesday the company's resilient stock (FB) was down for the second straight day since the breach was disclosed. "The Facebook board has to get to the bottom of why these systemic problems keep happening. Is it Mark Zuckerberg's responsibility? If so, he might not be the right person to be CEO of the company. Is it Sheryl Sandberg's responsibility? In which case, she might not be the right person to be COO," he said. Facebook declined to comment. Facebook's latest bad newsthe largest hack in its 14-year historycompromised the data of nearly 50 million accounts and exposed the data of 40 million more. Details about the attack are still sparse. Facebook says it doesn't yet know who was behind the attack and has released few details on who was affected or what data was stolen. Also unclear is whether the hackers used the access they gained to millions of Facebook accounts to get into the thousands of other services such as Tinder and Pinterest that take Facebook credentials. As politicians and regulators demand investigations, analysts are sounding alarms. "We see this recent security problem adding to already significant concerns about the company and its management," CFRA analyst Scott Kessler wrote in a research note Monday. So far the Facebook hack has not touched the same kind of nerve that this year's disclosed leak of personal information to Donald Trump-connected political targeting firm Cambridge Analytica did, but that could change. Facebook revealed the latest data breach late on a Friday as the nation was transfixed by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh's contentious Senate confirmation hearing. The main question facing regulators: Did Facebook do enough to safeguard its more than 2 billion users' data before the hack? Zuckerberg, whose personal account was also breached, said last week that Facebook is boosting spending on security staff and technology, areas it already invested heavily in. The company raised eyebrows in September when security chief Alex Stamos resigned to join Stanford University as an adjunct professor after reports he disagreed with Facebook management over its handling of Russian manipulation on the platform. Facebook assigned his responsibilities to others and reorganized his team, putting security staffers directly in product and engineering teams to safeguard the company's infrastructure and its users, but said it would not appoint a replacement. "The reality here is we face constant attacks from people who want to take over accounts or steal information. I'm glad we identified this one, fixed the vulnerability and secured the accounts that may be at risk. But we need to do more to prevent this from happening in the first place," Zuckerberg told reporters on Friday. A Facebook executive said Monday the data breach was the result of a "sophisticated attack." Speaking at an Advertising Week panel, the company's global head of marketing, Carolyn Everson, said Facebook could only detect the hackers "once they made a certain move." Europe could fine Facebook $1.63 billion Ireland's Data Protection Commission, the lead privacy regulator of Facebook in Europe, said Monday it was told by Facebook that the number of potentially affected accounts in the European Union is less than 10% of the 50 million. It's not clear how many of the rest are Americans. In a tweet, Facebook said Monday it's working to confirm the "the location of those potentially affected," and plans to release more information soon. Facebook was forced to disclose the attack much faster and more publicly to comply with strict new privacy rules in the European Union, which require notification within 72 hours. The breach could result in a $1.63 billion fine4 percent of its global annual revenue in 2017if European regulators find the company violated those rules. Distrust of Facebook's handling of the private information of its users dates nearly to the formation of the company in a Harvard dorm room in 2004, but has grown in Europe and the U.S. as problems keep piling up. Zuckerberg faced tough questions on Capitol Hill about his company's business and privacy practices in the spring and, last month, Facebook's chief operating officer Sandberg was summoned, too. The European Commission, the executive arm of the 28-member bloc, recently demanded that Facebook explain to consumers how their data is being used or face sanctions in several countries. The data breach affecting tens of millions of Facebook users comes at a sensitive time for the company. The Federal Trade Commission and other agencies are already investigating Facebook over Cambridge Analytica improperly accessing the personal information of 87 million users without their consent. And public sentiment has been soured by the steady drumbeat of controversies including revelations about Facebook's role in spreading Russian propaganda during and after the 2016 presidential election. "This really isn't going to help Facebook's image. It's going to make its users even more nervous about their privacy than they already are," said eMarketer analyst Debra Aho Williamson. "They are worried about how their data is being used by Facebook, and with this news, they also need to worry about whether their data is being used by hackers." Last week Facebook was caught using phone numbers provided for security purposes to target Facebook users with ads. At a time when the company is under fire for alleged political bias, its public policy chief was seated just behind Kavanaugh during Friday's Senate confirmation hearing. Facebook says he was there in a personal capacity, not representing the company. Explore further Facebook says no sign recent hack spread to other apps 2018 USA Today Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Activist, ministry spar over stalled medical bill Senior orthopedic surgeon Dr Govinda KC and the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology traded accusations after the federal parliament failed to endorse the National Medical Education Bill despite the governments commitment. After PM, Home Minister says arrest of Nirmalas rapists, killers could take years Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa has said that the governments will alone will not be enough to arrest the perpetrators behind the rape and murder of 13-year-old Nirmala Panta of Kanchanpur and it would take time to bring the culprit(s) to justice. He further said that the government is doing its part in the investigation of the case. When the Carnegie International opens this fall, it may appear as if the worlds latest art elegantly touches down like an ethereal being whose time to visit us has come round again. But if you knew it as I do, you would know that this periodic being is full of, shall we say, blemishes and peculiarities. Sometimes simply getting the work here is the most difficult part. Padded canvases by Gotthard Graubner (1982) and Doris Salcedos furniture encased in cement (1995) were held up by overzealous drug enforcement at customs. In 1988, Sigmar Polke barred the door of his studio to the shippers who were frantically trying to get his work to Pittsburgh before the curtain rose. Why? Because he was still drying his paintings with a hairdryer. Artists, of course, are by their natures challengers and challenging, and that ranges from the ordinary, everyday varietysuch as one passing out on the lawn of WQEDto the more bizarre. For the International in 2005, Maurizio Cattelan, the enfant terrible of the art world, had created something just slightly less controversial than his kneeling (and perhaps praying) Hitler. Cattelan sculpted a barefoot JFK in his coffin, and he wanted to place it in the Hall of Architecture. The likeness of the dead president surrounded by plaster casts would have been a sight, but because of the annual womens committees Christmas tree display and party, the barefoot JFK lay in waiting in the founders room, which was only periodically open. But artists arent always the difficult ones. A Vija Celmins skyscape upset a night guard so much that he slashed it, requiring expensive conservation work. And sometimes there are just weird vagaries that pop upor down, as happened with the original drawing on the staircase up to the galleries by Sol LeWitt that came crashing down at the end of a weekend. Thankfully LeWitt liked it so much, he gave the museum a new drawing so it could go all the way up the stairs. Then there was Mark Dion, known for his interest in science and research, who planned to build a pseudo lab in the decorative arts galleries. Unfortunately the wood he sent was infested with insects. So it had to be constructed in the museums parking lot, dissembled, fumigated, and then reconstructed in the galleries. Thats a surefire way to break the budget and mess up the schedule. With exhibitions like the International, the unexpected always happens. To visitors, everything appears magically in the galleries. The reality, however, can be quite different, and the stress and tension levels increase exponentially as opening day nears. By the time the galleries open, the staff is generally so tired, they just want to stay home. Standing at attention Francesco Clemente was important in the 1980s revival of painting, about a decade after many declared painting was dead. He was among a large group of neo-expressionists in the 1985 show and was included again in the 1988 version, represented that year by only one memorable work. Dreaming the Dreamers was more than 15 feet wide and it featured a supine nude with a notable erection. Clemente also included three couples, looking like flat, paper cutouts, engaged in sexual activity while wielding long poles topped with gloves, each with a finger pointing at the prominent organ. Even in the late 80s, images like that could be considered unseemly. Moving to prevent problems, director Jack Lane paraded most of the trustees through the office hallway, called carpet corridor by the staff, to see the work and thwart any unwanted surprise reactions. As far as I know, no one complained. Critics: From sublime to ridiculous Throughout the years, everyone from critics and cartoonists to the general public have loved to weigh in on the International. In the earlier years, press coverage was extensive with serious critical debate about the art and the artists. In 1982, the museum wanted to initiate a meaningful discussion so we invited prominent national critics for a forum on the opening weekend. Chaired by the eminent Hilton Kramer, it was a blistering critique, in the words of Kay Larson. After comments called the show a disappointment and a bad show, New York Times critic Roberta Smith summed it up by saying that she basically found nothing in this show that I would ever want to see again. The local press sensationalized our response, by characterizing (falsely) the forlorn and sad looks on the faces of director Jack Lane and his wife. In reality, Lane did his due diligence and visited a large number of curators and directors in the U.S. and Europe in order to canvass opinions with the result a critical success in 1985. At a dinner party for another exhibition that opened after the International, the namesake for the Purnell Center at CMU told me he thought that Lane should fire the entire staff and start over. Many Pittsburghers found the 1988 show entirely too depressing while others felt the 1991 iteration was overly intellectual and esoteric. One viewer responded to what he felt was self-serving mental masturbation by depositing some of himself in a sock and mailing it in a sealed plastic baggy to the museum. Women take a stand The history of the almost 60 versions of the show has been decidedly male dominated as well as Euro/American centric. Carnegie wanted to prove that American art was equal to European art, and in fact, the show wasnt called an international until 1920 when it resumed after a pause during World War I. What would become the International was founded in 1896 when American patriarchal power and patriotism were practically unquestioned. That same year John Phillip Sousa wrote Stars and Stripes Forever, and the show reflected traditional and conservative values. As values changed, especially with the civil rights and womens movements and the Vietnam war in the 1960s, the shows very existence was questioned, but the ratio of men to women artists wasnt. Even by the 80s, the numbers were out of sync, and the Guerilla Girls, an anonymous group of women artists/activists, formed in New York City in 1985 as the conscience of the art world, gathering and disseminating statistics, mostly in the form of humorous, but hard-hitting posters and handouts. As far as I know, their posters showed up only once in the museum, albeit in obscure places. The only serious protest occurred in 1988, when professors Elaine King of CMU and Ann Sutherland Harris of Pitt organized a womens show. King was a close friend of curator John Caldwell and thus had advance notice about the artist list and used her inside information as the impetus to curate her show. Perception and reality were often at odds; at the press conference announcing the artists for the 1991 show, director Phillip Johnston told me there were more women than ever when the numbers were exactly the same. And around the same time, he and I were talking about the final two candidates for curator of contemporary art and the International; he told me that the trustees werent ready to hire a woman for the job. The increase in numbers of women in the show came in 1988, but not without a struggle. At a meeting of the advisory committee in Pittsburgh, curator John Caldwell started to discuss artists to be considered for inclusion. The committee had three men and three women, but Americans Kathy Halbreich and Joan Simon kept returning to women, forcing the issue. Caldwell always argued for the objective eye, but he had to face strong voices that stood up to him, arguing against discrimination. As a result, that show ended up including Anna Blume (with her husband Bernhard), Katharina Fritsch, Rebecca Horn, Sherrie Levine, Agnes Martin, Elizabeth Murray, Susan Rothenberg, Susanna Solano and Rosemarie Trockel. A seismic change didnt take place until this year, 2018. A female curator led the charge, and for the first time ever, in the almost 125 years of the show, there are more women than men in the exhibition. Going even further to be conversant with current issues, curator Ingrid Schaffner listed artists who self-identify as she or he, avoiding the traditional label of woman artist. Catalog politics The catalog lives on after the exhibition closes as the document of record, but like the show, it too is subject to politics and surprises. For the 1988 show, Joan Simon and I were in charge of the catalog and commissioned short essays on each artist. Two were contested by curator John Caldwell and/or the artists. The first was a mention in the piece on Anselm Kiefer of a controversial earlier project when he photographed himself at the great monuments of the world, dressed in a Nazi uniform giving the Nazi salute. This was a project he preferred to forget for a good reason. The second was about Lothar Baumgarten, who rejected what had been written about him and insisted on submitting his own text. The final resolution involved negotiations between the director, curator, artists, dealers, and catalog team. Joan and I won the first but lost the second argument. The history of the International is filled with examples like these that are not found in the catalogs or most of the official accounts that rely on statistics and facts. Personalities and obstacles, accidents and serendipity have always played a role in these endeavors, and they add flavor to the history, giving an unusual insight into the history of the show and the museum. That history, even with these added stories, cannot capture everything so it remains forever incomplete. Several works in the 1991 show explored museum practices. Christian Boltanski, whose work has been based on the processes of history, compiled an archive of the International that was housed in boxes on metal shelves in the basement of the Mattress Factory, an offsite space. Each box had a label with the artists name and years of participation. The irony was that his document was riddled with errors that were in the original records or occurred during the transfer process, showing the fickle nature of history. Andrew Carnegie, like Andy Warhol, had a flair for public relations, and in his autobiography, he talked about his ability to turn ducks into swans. Thats what official histories can become, while adding the personal stories produces a tableau that is both fascinating and different from that official account. 8 hours ago Climate consensus appears near; India objects to coal plans GLASGOW, Scotland (AP) Almost 200 nations were poised Saturday to adopt a compromise on how to curb climate change and to keep a key global warming target alive after 15 days of contentious climate talks. During nearly three hours of discussions, nation after nation said the proposed agreement did not go far enough, but only India and Iran appeared inclined to object. Read Article Army questioned over business deals Members of the parliamentary State Affairs Committee have voiced concerns over the increasing involvement of Nepal Army in business-related activities. Artefacts and archives in crisis at National Archives The historical documents and artefacts at the National Archives are said to be at risk as the National Archives building based at Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, will have to be vacated as per a Cabinet decision. British inmate arrested after jailbreak from Nakhu prison A British inmate, who escaped from Nakhu Jail in the wee hours of Wednesday, has been arrested later in the morning. City remembers Gandhi Freedom activist Mahatma Gandhi, who led a non-violent struggle to free India from British rule, was remembered in Kathmandu by various groups at events held here to celebrate his 149th birthday. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York on 28 September 2018. (Photo: Reuters/Shannon Stapleton) By Daniel Moss The style and substance of Malaysias seventh prime minister sure look familiar to anyone who knew him as its fourth prime minister. Good. Mahathir Mohamads political comeback at the age of 92 could be just what the nation needs. Mahathirs approach is well suited to this moment of nationalism, skepticism about global integration, and rivalry between the U.S. and China. You might even call it a blueprint for how a nation can get most of what it wants without shutting the door to investment and needlessly antagonizing allies and great powers. During his first 22-year stretch in office, ending in 2003, he was combative and a reliable critic of Western or free-market orthodoxy. I observed this firsthand reporting on his government from Kuala Lumpur. Now, he seems moderate and sensible. But he hasnt changed. The world has, in this era of Donald Trump, Brexit and open antipathy toward free trade. Observing now-93-year-old Mahathir at events in New York last week, I saw that his approach to issues has not evolved a lot. His economic thrust is: Foreign direct investment is welcome, not because we love it, but because we need it. It helps Malaysia. Caveat: We dont like de facto foreign colonies on our soil and hate being ripped off. We want infrastructure but cant borrow more than the nation can afford. He still views currency trading with disdain and its proponents a motley group of people moving numbers on a screen to no productive end. Mahathir acknowledges Chinas ascendancy and isnt fazed about Chinas growing military presence in the South China Sea. China can make all the claims it wants to the waters. Malaysias interest is whether shipping can pass through unimpeded. We are a small country, he said. Implicit is that there is no point resisting tectonic geopolitical and economic shifts, especially when you cant or wont do anything about it. Mahathirs consistency is not unalloyed. Many in the West cant forget his broadsides against Jews. Nor should they; he restated those opinions as recently as 2016, and I havent heard him disown them. Story continues His views on economic integration are striking these days. Mahathir still promotes his idea for an East Asian Economic Caucus, a regional free-trade zone he sought during his previous premiership. That zone would link the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations with Japan, China and South Korea. There would even be a quasi-single currency, a token used for trade. In the end, Japan balked because the zone didnt include the U.S. That outcome was not a total disaster in Mahathirs estimation, because the Asean-plus-three group subsequently agreed to strengthen cooperation. Put Mahathir down as a champion of muscular regionalism, which might even be called the new face of globalization. North Americas last-minute deal to salvage Nafta, albeit in tweaked form with lots of histrionics, is consistent with this. (More on all that in another column soon.) Its early days for Mahathir 2.0. For now, he is the toast of New York. His secret? Never retire. Daniel Moss writes and edits articles on economics for Bloomberg Opinion. Previously he was executive editor of Bloomberg News for global economics, and has led teams in Asia, Europe and North America. 2018 Bloomberg L.P Rosmah Mansor, the wife of Malaysias former prime minister, was arrested Wednesday by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, the countrys anti-graft agency, over the multi-billion-dollar 1MDB scandal. Rosmah has been arrested, her lawyer K. Kumaraendran told AFP after she was questioned at MACC headquarters. Her husband Najib Razak has been hit with a string of charges including corruption and money laundering. Local media reports that she will be charged with money laundering tomorrow. The news comes straight after both she and her husband, Najib Razak, were questioned by the MACC today, with Najib leaving quietly approximately before it was announced his wife was under arrest. It was her third time being questioned by the agency. The post BREAKING: Wife of ex-Malaysian PM arrested by anti-graft agency appeared first on Coconuts. Democracy and development are contingent upon peace: PM Oli Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that democracy and development are contingent upon peace. Drought conditions could cost China US$47 billion per year in economic losses more than double the current estimate if global temperatures rise by 1.5 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial baseline, according to a Chinese study. Those losses could climb a lot higher to US$84 billion, or about five times this years level if the global average temperature goes up by 2 degrees, Chinese Academy of Sciences researchers found. Their study, published in US journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on Monday, projected Chinas economic losses from drought under the two rising temperature scenarios, using climate data from 31 provinces over the three decades from 1986 to 2015. The two scenarios were based on the target set by the Paris Agreement to tackle climate change, which aims to limit global warming to 1.5 or 2 degrees above pre-industrial levels. Drought losses have significantly increased in recent years across the globe, said Jiang Tong, lead author of the study and a researcher with the National Climate Centre at the China Meteorological Administration in Beijing. [But] most projections agree that the warming rate of China will be faster than the global mean. At present, Chinas economic losses from drought are estimated at US$17.7 billion per year, based on the average from 2006 to 2015, according to the study. The losses could be significantly worse if temperatures continue to rise, since Chinas arable land some 135 million hectares represents 10 per cent of the worlds total, and supports one-fifth of the global population, Jiang said. The study found that more than 20 million hectares of crops in China an area about the size of Indonesia have been affected by drought every year since 1949, damaging the productivity of one-sixth of the countrys total arable land. [But] keeping the global average temperature increase under or equal to 1.5 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial level could reduce annual drought losses by several tens of billions of US dollars, as the projected losses under the 2 degrees scenario nearly double those under 1.5 degrees, he said. Story continues Climate change is projected to take a bigger toll in southern China, a region considered to be humid, as severe drought events have occurred more frequently than before in the years since 2010, the study found. Compared with precipitation, the evapotranspiration increase is more obvious in southern China, according to the study. And evapotranspiration plays a major role in the generation of droughts in the warmer world. Evapotranspiration refers to water loss from the ground to the atmosphere through evaporation from the soil and transpiration from plants. The researchers expected that much of China nearly 75 per cent of the country except for the northeastern area will be drier in the future. And over half of that area is forecast to experience more intense drought conditions if temperatures rise by 2 degrees Celsius, compared with an increase of 1.5 degrees. Annual average drought loss for the 2 degrees Celsius warming level in the growth-oriented model is estimated to be around two times that in the 1.5 degrees warming [scenario], said Su Buda, a co-author of the study and a researcher with the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The study called for efforts to limit warming to 1.5 degrees because economic losses at that level would be significantly lower than if temperatures rose by 2 degrees, she said. In the two decades to 2005, the average global surface temperature was 0.61 degrees Celsius warmer than the pre-industrial level, according to the UNs Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The Paris climate pact was signed in 2016 by 180 countries, including China and India, though the United States has said it plans to withdraw from the agreement. This article Drought may cost China US$47 billion a year as temperatures rise, study finds first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018. Even reaching the most optimistic goals in the Paris climate treaty will still increase the area of southern Europe devastated by forest fires each year by at least 40 percent, researchers warned Tuesday. Following two years of often deadly blazes across Portugal, Spain, southern France and Greece, scientists at the University of Barcelona said more woodland areas could be lost to the flames if the targets laid out in the 2015 climate deal were missed. The agreement aims to limit global temperature increases to "well below" 2.0 degrees Celsius -- and to 1.5C if at all possible. In the first study of its kind, the team tested computer models of how much worse fires would get if global temperatures were to rise 1.5C, 2C, or 3C by the end of the century. "It's relevant because there are a lot of fires in this area, for instance, in Greece this year or last summer in Portugal," Marco Turco, from the university's Department of Applied Physics and lead study author told AFP. "These are examples of things to come in the future." Turco and the team found that the area of southern Europe lost each year to fire would increase between 40-54 percent, even if temperature rises were limited to 1.5C -- the most ambitious goal in all climate change mitigation efforts. "1.5C is really ambitious... but it's not physically impossible," said Turco. Were temperatures to climb 2C above the preindustrial benchmark, the area destroyed by fire was projected to increase between 62-87 percent, and for 3C it could grow by as much as 187 percent as climate change-induced droughts produce more combustible material. Southern Europe currently loses around 4,500 square kilometres -- three times the area of Greater London -- each year to fire. - Deadliest blazes - In July, nearly 100 people perished in blazes at coastal resorts near Athens, the country's worst fire in modern history. The government of Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras came in for thunderous criticism after a combination of tactical errors by emergency responders and poor infrastructure trapped hundreds of holidaymakers in the path of the flames. Story continues In August 2017, 64 people burned to death in Portugal's worst ever fires. Scientists have consistently predicted that extreme weather events such as wildfires, drought, superstorms and flooding will become more frequent and severe as our planet heats up. Turco said his study highlighted the importance of trying to stick to 1.5C rises -- something some studies already suggest may be beyond reach. Ultimately, in seaside regions where holiday homes predominate, people may wish to reconsider buying a property that could become increasingly prey to fire as the century progresses. "In these areas the climate has meant that people have to be really careful considering these future scenarios," Turco said. To find out the whole truth, a high-level inquiry into the construction scandal at Hong Kongs most expensive rail link should be expanded to include a key witness, a lawmaker has urged ahead of this months hearings. Civic Party legislator Tanya Chan said Wing & Kwong Steel Engineering Co a subcontractor hired by Leighton Contractors (Asia) for steel works at the HK$97.1 billion Sha Tin-Central links Hung Hom station was missing from the list of witnesses for the inquiry. The engineering firm worked on the joints connecting the tunnels of the stations north approach to the platform, which were also found to be faulty. I think the inquiry should also look into the shoddy work at the stations north approach tunnels because it showed similar problems. Wing & Kwong should also be called to give evidence at the upcoming hearings next month, she said. Chan made the call as the independent commission of inquiry into the faulty steel works surrounding the Hung Hom extended station conducted its preliminary hearing last month. The commission was formed by the government to look into the construction scandal that erupted in May involving the cutting of steel bars to fake proper installation into couplers in the station platform. Leighton, which has remained silent on the controversy, was the main contractor in charge of building the platforms and the tunnels connection joints. But the north approach tunnels, under the same contract, were not mentioned in the commissions opening address nor were any subcontractors involved called as witnesses. This was despite a then MTR Corporation general manager admitting to the Legislative Council in July that some steel bars were not connected to joints in the stations 135-metre north approach tunnels. Concrete work was completed in March. The faulty steel work was later unearthed due to persistent seepage problems at some connection joints. Story continues Under MTR procedures, no concreting work could be carried out unless the transport operator certified that the steel work complied with standards. The rail giant failed to say who gave the order for the concreting work to go ahead. Chan said commission chairman Michael Hartmann, a former non-permanent Court of Final Appeal judge, should also look into the construction issues arising from the tunnels connection joints because it was covered by the same contract and exposed similar problems. The faulty work at the tunnels raises questions as to whether it concerns a systemic flaw of the management of MTR Corp as a project manager. I dont rule out the possibility of a cover-up or negligence by the involved parties. I think the commission should find out the whole truth, she said. Chan added that she might write a letter to Hartmann if it was appropriate for an outsider to make a request. So far, more than 40 witnesses from nine parties have been invited to give statements, including people from the Transport and Housing Bureau, the Highways Department, the MTR Corp, Leighton and three subcontractors for the station platform: Intrafor, Fang Sheung Construction and China Technology Corporation. The commissions secretariat said on Tuesday: The inquiry conducted by the commission is deemed to be a judicial proceeding. It would not be appropriate therefore for the commission to respond to the questions raised. October 22 will be the first day of the substantive hearing, which will continue on weekdays, excluding public holidays. On November 17, the commission will take a break and resume on November 22. The construction scandal led to an overhaul of top management at the MTR Corp, with four executives resigning in early August and an early departure planned for CEO Lincoln Leong Kwok-kuen. Police are also investigating the Hung Hom station case, at the request of the Highways Department. This article Expand Sha Tin-Central link shoddy work inquiry to include key witness, Hong Kong lawmaker urges first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018. Two foreigners in China are being investigated by Shenzhen cyberpolice in Guangdong province, southeastern China, after allegedly posting anti-Chinese hate speech and slurs relating to the Nanking massacre in an English-language WeChat group chat. Screenshots from the group chat purport to show two members using racially derogatory language and making allusions to the 1937 Japanese mass murder of 300,000 Chinese at the place now called Nanjing. The messages, which appear to have been sent last week, were mainly directed towards one group member, who objected to the use of a racial slur in the chat. He was identified as Chinese in a local media report. Wow since when this group turn racial [sic], asked the user, identified by local media as a Shenzhen resident, known by the handle Master Gao. His message was followed by responses from two others in the 88-person chat group accusing Chinese people of being cowards and directly referencing the massacre. The screenshots have spread across Chinese social media, prompting an outpouring of anger, as well as coverage of the story in the Modern Express newspaper, 1,400km (870 miles) away in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, in eastern China. The social media furore was further stoked when a media report suggested one of the foreign men involved was an English-language teacher. The incident comes less than a week after the first prosecution under Chinas new Heroes and Martyrs Protection Law, enacted on May 1, which outlaws defaming or insulting communist war heroes and martyrs. In that case, a rage comics company was ordered to pay 100,000 yuan (US$14,500) in damages to the family of communist civil war hero Ye Ting. It is unlikely the same civil law, which is geared towards cases of defamation against a specific individual, would apply in a general case referencing a historical event, such as this one. Story continues However, the heroes and martyrs law is indicative of a trend within China towards tighter control of speech around historical events. According to Fu Hualing, professor in the faculty of law at the University of Hong Kong, the new law does indicate greater scrutiny of public commentary. This is one example of the tightened control in this particular field, but its a reflection of a general crackdown on speech in China, he said. According to Fu, social media posts such as the ones at the centre of the latest controversy, generally would not result in criminal charges. The response would have more to do with general internet management and control, he said, noting that usually in these cases posts are deleted and accounts closed. Criminal charges laid against social media users for disturbing public order more often would be for specific posts criticising government policy, Fu said. He also noted those cases typically related to the Twitter-like Weibo, which is more public than a WeChat group conversation, which is only open to a limited number of members. Previous cases involving public posts about the highly sensitive topic of the 1937 massacre have had consequences ranging from fines and detentions to social pressure to apologise. Last December, in separate cases, a Hebei man and a Jiangsu man were detained by police for 15 and 10 days respectively for insulting victims of the massacre, according to local media. In August, the account of a popular host on the live-streaming site Douyu was pulled after comments she made in 2016 came to light in which she described a massacre-related live game stream. This article Foreigners in China WeChat group investigated after racial slurs, Nanking massacre references first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018. France is planning "for the worst" over Brexit, Budget Minister Gerald Darmanin warned Tuesday, adding that hundreds more customs officers will be deployed at Channel ports. "We must prepare for a 'hard' Brexit, that is to say one without a legal framework with our English friends," he told reporters amid tense negotiations between London and the 27 other members of the European Union. "We don't know what's going to happen and that's why we have to plan for the worst," he said following a Brexit meeting with local officials in the northern port city of Calais. "In any case, that's the hypothesis the prime minister has asked me to work with." In November the French government will present parliament with a draft law drawn up on the basis of a no-deal Brexit, an official source told AFP Tuesday. This bill to be presented to cabinet on Wednesday by France's Europe minister Nathalie Loiseau will deal with the string of legal and administrative issues which a hard Brexit would throw up, the government source said. The list of potential problems is "a veritable Himalaya", the source added. Among these is the fate of French nationals living in Britain and of Britons living in France. Even Eurostar train drivers, who currently use a European licence, could be caught in a Kafkaesque situation. - 'Hoping never to use it' - "It's one of those rare legal projects that one undertakes hoping never to use it," a French ministerial source said. EU Council President Donald Tusk said late last month that he remains "convinced that a compromise, good for all, is still possible" after the EU roundly rejected British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit plan at a summit in Salzburg, Austria. Darmanin, who is also responsible for customs, said a no-deal Brexit would be problematic both for the EU and for France because of the amount of trade conducted with Britain through Channels ports and through the tunnel. He confirmed that some 700 extra customs officers would be deployed over the next three years at Channel entry points. New scanners will be brought in, notably to examine the content of goods trains travelling through the Channel tunnel, he said. France is also looking at the possibility of setting up special customs zones for trucks near Calais to avoid traffic jams at the port or the entrance to the tunnel. London and Brussels are supposed to reach agreement on Brexit terms before an EU summit on October 18 and 19. This would allow for a transition period rather than a brutal withdrawal of Britain from the EU in March next year. These four startups will be partnering with building owners and various agencies to pilot innovative technology such as AI, data analytics and IoT to address key security challenges The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) have awarded a total of S$2.5 million (US$1.82M) funding to four security startups in Singapore. The investment was made as part of the Security Industry Transformation Map (ITM) launched by MHA in February 2018. This project is aimed at encouraging technology providers to co-create new digital solutions with the security sector. These four startups will be partnering with building owners and security agencies in the country to pilot innovative technology such as Artificial Intelligence, data analytics, and Internet of Things to address key challenges outlined in the Security ITM. The four startups are: Vi Dimensions Founded in 2015, Vi Dimensions (ViD) aims to use cameras and video analytics to improve security operations. The startups flagship product, ARVAS, uses a self- learning algorithm which does not require the surveillance operator to pre-define any rules for real-time detection. ViDs automated surveillance monitoring system will be piloted at six CapitaLand malls and NEX shopping mall. The project aims to transform the business and operating models of the security sector through automated security surveillance monitoring and detecting abnormal events 247. On Tuesday, ViD announced it raised a S$1 million (US$730,000) in Series AA round from DeClout Ventures, a group of partners from a leading Asian hedge fund, as well as existing investor Tembusu ICT Fund I. Xjera Labs Xjera is an AI video analytics company with offices. The firm has developed video analytics solutions for various applications including security, retail, construction etc. Xjera is also providing AI-as-a-service to empower companies in niche verticals. Also Read: Singapore-based public transportation platform mobilityX raises Series A led by Toyota Tsusho Story continues Xjeras Multi-Signal Surveillance Platform prototype will be piloted indoors at Changi Airport. This project aims to enable automated security surveillance by combining video analytics with audio intelligence to reduce false positive alerts in indoor environments and thus reduce manual monitoring of video feeds on-screens. uberGARD Established in 2008, uBerGARD launched its first product, Intelligent Key Lock Application System (iKLAS), a web-based key management system that controls and tracks the usage and movement of keys. Its new generation key management systems aim to offer a better alternative to the use of physical keys through automated key retrieval and key-press access. The systems features include anomaly detection, auto IRIS and facial recognition access control. This prototype will be piloted at Secoms (Singapore) premises. ARKemis ARKemis offers sustainable and scalable IT platforms which are methodology driven to address public safety needs. ARKemiss advanced IoT sensor platform supports a variety of operating systems. ARKemis SSOps.com will pilot the prototype at Advertent Securitys Command Centre, the Sommerville Grandeur condominium and Synergy Hub at Kaki Bukit premises. The new digital solution will help to digitalise the security workflow and processes by reducing reliance on security manpower in managing a site and ensuring compliance with Police Licensing & Regulatory Department (PLRD) regulatory grading requirements. It will also enable realistic red-teaming exercises for security officers training and address Advertent Securitys specific use-cases on-site. The post IMDA, MHA award US$1.82M funding to 4 security-tech companies in Singapore appeared first on e27. The Animal Clinics Dr Hsu Li Chieh using a drill guide to affix the 3D-printed casque onto the hornbill. (PHOTO: WRS) A 22-year-old male great pied hornbill diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer has been given a second lease of life, following a surgery to replace its casque with a 3D prosthesis. Jary (ya-ri), one of four male and six female great pied hornbills at Jurong Bird Park, was spotted by its keepers on 13 July with an estimated 8cm wide gash on its casque that exposed underlying tissue, said the Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS) on Wednesday (3 October). The casque refers to the decorative growth on the upper mandible of the birds bill. Jary, which means a warrior with a helmet in ancient Norse, underwent a CT-guided biopsy on its casque at the Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Hospital, where it was confirmed that the bird suffered from cancer. The veterinary team formed a guarded prognosis as the park has seen two similar cases in the past. Of these two cases, one underwent chemotherapy, which unfortunately did not save the bird, while the other hornbills cancer had progressed too rapidly for treatment, added the WRS, which manages the Singapore Zoo, the Night Safari, the Jurong Bird Park and the River Safari. The team decided to perform surgery on Jarys casque and replace it with a 3D prosthesis. To produce Jarys prosthesis, the veterinary team engaged the help of Keio-National University of Singapore (NUS) CUTE (Connective Ubiquitous Technology for Embodiments) Centre, NUS Smart Systems Institute, and NUS Centre for Additive Manufacturing. The Animal Clinics veterinary orthopaedic specialist Dr Hsu Li Chieh was roped in to assess the 3D prosthetic models. The WRS said that it took almost two months of designing and discussion before a 46g model was deemed a perfect fit for Jary. The surgery took slightly over an hour on 13 September. The great pied hornbill will don the prosthesis until a new casque grows out. Jary was eating normally the day after the surgery, and recently also started rubbing the prosthetic casque on its preening glands, which secretes yellow pigment, said Dr Xie Shangzhe, Assistant Director, Conservation, Research and Veterinary Services, WRS. These natural behaviours are good indications that he has accepted the prosthesis as part of him. Story continues Jary is now under close observation in the avian hospitals outdoor ward and will return to the Hornbills and Toucans exhibit by the end of this month. Great pied hornbills or great hornbills, which can live up to 40 years on average, are classified as near-threatened in the International Union for Conservation of Natures Red List of Threatened Species. The species is native to Southeast Asia and the India subcontinent. Other Singapore stories: Cop recounts pulling hysterical suspect to safety from Rochor Canal Police arrest 73 in seven-day multi-agency operation Lithuania's phone-addicted pedestrians will have to do without mobile devices when they cross streets under a new regulation approved on Wednesday as the Baltic country seeks to curb traffic deaths. "Pedestrians must not use mobile devices before stepping onto the street or walking across it," Transport Minister Rokas Masiulis told a cabinet meeting that was broadcast live. Starting next month, crossing the street while talking on or checking a phone could cost Lithuanians a fine of up to 40 euros ($46). Honolulu introduced a similar law last year, though the state capital of Hawaii only banned viewing a mobile device during crossings, not talking on the phone. Last year, 68 pedestrians were killed by cars or motorcycles in Lithuania, a eurozone member of 2.8 million people. The rate of Lithuanian pedestrian deaths is the third worst in the European Union, after Romania and Latvia, according to the latest official data. Disenfranchised citizen Every citizen has the right to a good education, even the visually impaired Rosmah Mansor, wife of Malaysia's former Prime Minister Najib Razak, arrives to give a statement to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission in Putrajaya Rosmah Mansor, wife of Malaysia's former Prime Minister Najib Razak, arrives to give a statement to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in Putrajaya, Malaysia September 26, 2018. REUTERS/Lai Seng Sin/Files KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - Malaysia's anti-graft agency arrested former first lady Rosmah Mansor and expects to charge her in court on Thursday with money-laundering, among other infringements, it said. Rosmah, the wife of former prime minister Najib Razak, was detained after being questioned by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), it added. "Rosmah will face several charges," the agency said in a statement on Wednesday, adding that the charges covered infringements of a law against money laundering and other unlawful activities. Her arrest follows three rounds of questioning by anti-graft agents over state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), from which U.S. authorities say more than $4.5 billion was misappropriated. Last Wednesday, she was questioned for nearly 13 hours. Rosmah, 66, had arrived at the agency's headquarters at around 0300 GMT on Wednesday, wearing traditional Malay clothing in lime green and accompanied by her lawyers. The agency did not say if the charges against her related to 1MDB. Lawyers for Rosmah had earlier said she had been arrested and that she would face money laundering charges. Najib, 64, himself faced questioning on Wednesday by the anti-money laundering and anti-terror financing division of Malaysia's police over a money laundering inquiry, media said. Najib, whose coalition suffered a stunning election defeat in May, faces 32 charges ranging from money laundering to abuse of power and criminal breach of trust in the effort to uncover how billions of dollars went missing from 1MDB. The couple's world has been turned upside down since Najib lost the election to his one-time mentor Mahathir Mohamad, who swiftly reopened a probe into 1MDB. Corruption accusations have dogged Najib for years, and came to a head in 2015, when the Wall Street Journal reported that nearly $700 million in 1MDB funds was diverted to his personal bank account. Rosmah has long been in the public eye over her penchant for handbags, jewellery and shopping sprees. (Reporting by Rozanna Latiff and Joseph Sipalan; Writing by A. Ananthalakshmi; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) At the main campus entrance, a large concrete sign welcomes students and visitors to "The University of..." followed by a blank space. After Swaziland changed its name earlier this year to eSwatini, the nine letters spelling out the old name of the country were removed from the university sign, and new letters have not yet arrived. "We are still waiting," said a security guard at the gate. On the other side of the road, Banele Syabonga, 25, contemplated his country's sudden change of name in April, which took many citizens by surprise. "I like the new name -- it is more African," Syabonga, who is unemployed, told AFP, standing outside Lucky's Hair Cut shop, a tin shack in Manzini, the second city of what is now known as eSwatini. "Swaziland was the British name. Now we have our own," he said, addressing one of the contentious debates about the new title. In April, King Mswati III -- one of the world's last absolute rulers -- marked 50 years since his country's independence from British colonial rule by announcing that it would now be known as eSwatini ("land of the Swazis"). The monarch's decision, taken without warning or consultation, revealed much about his autocratic rule and his country's history -- as well as posing a logistical challenge as the name change came into immediate effect. Six weeks after the king's pronouncement, the country's representative informed the United Nations headquarters in New York, and the UN soon adopted the new nomenclature. Regional bodies, including the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), have also quickly changed to eSwatini -- though they sometimes swap between names in the same statement. The adjustment has taken some getting used to inside eSwatini, a landlocked nation of just 1.3 million residents between South Africa and Mozambique. Senior Swazi officials speaking to AFP during a visit last week repeatedly had to stop and correct themselves mid-sentence. It is "Swaziland" on the banknotes, but the central bank now uses "eSwatini", while police stations are gradually changing their signs. - 'Name is your identity' - Unlike many countries, such as Zimbabwe -- called Southern Rhodesia under British rule -- Swaziland did not change its name when it became independent in 1968. "African countries on getting independence reverted to their ancient names before they were colonised," the king said when he announced the change, having previously complained that Swaziland was often confused with Switzerland. But the king's claim that eSwatini was Swaziland's old "authentic" name is fiercely disputed. "There is disagreement over the pre-colonial name -- many say it was actually 'Ngwane'," Thulani Maseko, an activist and lawyer who is challenging the name change in court, told AFP in the capital Mbabane. Ngwane was an ancient name for the Swazi people who settled in the south of the country under King Ngwane III, who ruled in the 18th century. Swaziland takes its name from King Mswati II, who ruled between 1840 and 1868. The area came under joint British and Boer rule in 1894 before becoming a British territory in 1907. "The name of your country is your identity, so it should not be changed by just one person issuing a royal command," Maseko said. "It tells you that the king does not consult with the people when he makes fundamental decisions." Maseko spent 15 months in jail in 2014-15 for contempt of court after writing about lack of judicial independence, and he accepts that his legal battle over his country's name faces tough odds. But he wants to take a stand against the king's all-encompassing authority. The country held elections last month in a vote that was dismissed as a farce by critics because the constitution grants the king complete control over parliament and all branches of the state. The country is impoverished -- in sharp contrast to the king's lavish lifestyle -- and the name change is estimated to cost the government up to $6 million. Percy Simelane, the government spokesman, declined to comment to AFP, saying the court case made the matter sub-judice. The name "eSwatini" did not come out of the blue. It is used in the local siSwati language and has appeared for years as the country's sub-title on national passports. But for souvenir seller Thoko Nkambule, 50, it has been an unwelcome disruption to business. She offers beaded necklaces, leather bracelets and carved wooden fridge magnets all skillfully spelling out "Swaziland" or now increasingly "eSwatini". "We are changing step by step," she said. "Some buyers want the old name, some want the new name. Personally, I prefer the old one." The funding was led by Willy Ballmann and Keizo Fujitake, who are angel investors based in Singapore Technolic, the parent company of Myanmar-based freelancer platform Chate Sat, has raised a six-digit funding in a Pre-Series A round led by Singapore-based angel investors, Willy Ballmann and Keizo Fujitake. The company will use the newly-raised capital to grow its internal business resources and expand its team. Launched in 2016 by Phandeeyar Accelerator Cohort 1 alumni Honey and Shwe Yee Mya Win, Chate Sat curates freelancers of various expertise, including web and mobile developers, designers, digital marketers, content writers, animators, photographers, promoters, and more. It currently has over 14,000 freelancers on its platform and has expanded to beyond its borders to countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and even Western countries. Chate Sats market focus now, however, is on Mekong countries including Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, as well as its home base. I believe investing in Chate Sat presents a great opportunity to boost Myanmars tech startup ecosystem. Chate Sats current market leading position firmly establishes the company to be the future centre and hub for Myanmars gig economy, said Ballman, in an official statement. Also Read: How search engine startup Coc Coc took on Google in Vietnam Ballman is a former Portfolio Manager at the Government of Singapore Investment Corporation (GIC) and a former Managing Partner & COO at Dymon Asia Capital, while Fujitake is an ex-investment banker. Chate Sat previously secured seed funding from Seed Myanmar (previously VIMIC), Theta Capital and a Myanmar-based angel investor in July 2017. Chate Sat has undergone phenomenal growth in a very short period, which validates our unique positioning and the associated first-mover advantages we have gained as a result. We have been extremely glad to receive continuous support from our investors and recognition of the value that our product provides, especially in this current tough economy, said Mya Win, in an official press statement. Story continues In an emerging market like Myanmar, Chate Sat has little rivals to contend with. The few that may pose a challenge to the company include MM Freelancer, though there is little data to examine it has the capabilities to do so. Image Credit: Chate Sat The post Myanmar freelancer platform Chate Sat raises 6-digit funding to expand its team appeared first on e27. Singapores Minister for Education Ong Ye Kung. (Getty Images file photo) There was no negative uproar from parents over last weeks announcement about the reduction of school examinations by a quarter, said Minister for Education Ong Ye Kung on Wednesday (3 October). Fortunately, and to my great relief, there was no negative uproar, and I am deeply grateful to all the parents who wrote encouraging and supportive messages to me since I made the announcement, said Ong during the opening address at the Singapore International Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) conference. However, he noted that they have expressed valid worries and apprehension about the changes. From next year, there will be neither assessments nor exams for Primary 1 and 2 pupils, said Ministry of Education (MOE) in a press release last Friday. Teachers will conduct discussions and quizzes to gauge their pupils learning progress, and there will be no grades given. Presently, pupils from both levels have to take weighted assessments, while Primary 2 pupils also have to take a year-end exam. Mid-year exams for students in Primary 3, Primary 5, Secondary 1 and Secondary 3 will also be removed in phases from 2019, starting with the Secondary 1 level. All students from Primary 3 to Secondary 4 or 5 will also not have more than one graded assessment per subject per school term. As schools move away from assessments and exams, report books for primary and secondary levels will no longer indicate the pupils class and level positions. Examinations have become such a comfortable security blanket that a large part of the education experience revolves around examinations, stressed Ong, who added that the ministry spent three days discussing the matter with principals and vice principals who supported the move. They are in fact very glad that time has been returned to the schools, for better teaching and learning. MOE has given guidelines to the schools to limit the number of tests that will count towards year-end results, said Ong. Story continues Noting that education goes far beyond marks and grades, Ong stressed that Singapore had been over-reliant on this security blanket and needed to focus on the true spirit of learning. We are reducing examinations by 25 per cent, in a calibrated way, not removing them entirely. We are achieving a better balance between joy and rigour with this change, said Ong. With the reduction in examinations, schools will have about three more weeks of curriculum time for every two school years, according to Ong. We will use this time to teach you better, so that you can learn better, because teachers dont have to rush through the curriculum in order to prepare for examinations, added Ong. He noted that parents worry that schools or tuition centres will undo the change by re-introducing other assessments that are not called examinations, like common tests, mock exams, or prelims, to fill up the void we freed up. He strongly urged tuition centres not to simulate examination-like conditions to make up for lost examinations, as doing so would result in preying on the apprehension and anxieties of parents and students. Instead, try to understand why these changes are important to better prepare our young for the future, and help explain that to parents. Dont undo what we intend to do, he said. Other Singapore stories: Two Straits Times editors disciplined amid probe into improper relations with subordinate Art teacher jailed 22 months for molesting Secondary 2 student Activist Seelan Palay fined $2,500 for taking part in public procession Mystery surrounded the whereabouts of a prominent Saudi critic on Thursday after Riyadh announced he had left their consulate in Istanbul -- but Turkey and his fiancee said he had not been heard from since entering the building. Jamal Khashoggi, a contributor to the Washington Post, went to the Saudi consulate on Tuesday to receive an official document for his marriage. His fiancee reported him missing after the journalist, who has lived in self-imposed exile in the US since last year to avoid possible arrest, was not seen to emerge. The former government adviser, has been critical of some policies of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Riyadh's intervention in the war in Yemen. After an initial period of silence Saudi Arabia said the consulate was working with Turkish authorities "to uncover the circumstances of the disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi after he left the consulate building" in a statement published Thursday by the state-run SPA news agency. A senior Turkish official however said on Wednesday the journalist was being held at the consulate. "According to information we have, this individual who is a Saudi national is still at the Istanbul consulate of Saudi Arabia," presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin told reporters in Ankara. He said the Turkish foreign ministry and police were closely monitoring the case, adding that Ankara was in touch with Saudi officials. Khashoggi's Turkish fiancee has been waiting outside the consulate since Wednesday morning. "I haven't received any news from him since 1 pm (1000 GMT) on Tuesday," 36-year-old Hatice, who would not give her family name, told AFP as she stood near barricades. She said Khashoggi had left his mobile phone with her. "We want to know his whereabouts. Where is Jamal?" she said. "We want him to come out of the consulate safe and sound." - 'Very concerned' - The US State Department said it was investigating the matter. "We... are very concerned about where he may be," the Washington Post's international opinions editor, Eli Lopez, said in a statement late Tuesday. "It would be unfair and outrageous if he has been detained for his work as a journalist and commentator," Lopez said. Turan Kislakci, a friend of Khashoggi and head of the Turkish-Arab Media Association, told AFP: "We are certain that Jamal is being held inside unless the consulate has a tunnel." Hatice said Khashoggi had gone to the consulate to obtain documents for their own marriage to prove he was not married. Reporters Without Borders said Khashoggi's disappearance was "extremely worrying," calling on Saudi and Turkish authorities "to do everything to ensure that this journalist reappears free - as soon as possible." The Committee to Protect Journalists said the Saudi's disappearance was a cause for alarm "given the Saudi authorities' pattern of quietly detaining critical journalists". In an article written for the Post in September 2017, Khashoggi wrote: "When I speak of the fear, intimidation, arrests and public shaming of intellectuals and religious leaders who dare to speak their minds, and then I tell you that I'm from Saudi Arabia, are you surprised?" At about the same time, Khashoggi said he had been banned from contributing to the Al-Hayat daily, owned by Saudi Prince Khaled bin Sultan al-Saud. The writer admitted to defending the Muslim Brotherhood, which did not appear to please the newspaper. While Riyadh classifies the Brotherhood as a "terrorist organisation", Turkey is one of the group's main supporters. The hashtag "#kidnappingofJamalKhashoggi" was one of the most shared in Arabic on Twitter since Tuesday evening. Saudi Arabia, which ranks 169th out of 180 on the World Press Freedom Index issued by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), has launched a modernisation campaign since the 2017 appointment of Prince Mohammed as heir to the throne. But the ultra-conservative kingdom, which won plaudits in June for lifting a ban on women driving, has drawn heavy criticism for its handling of dissent. Khashoggi once said that before he left the kingdom, the Saudi government banned him from Twitter for warning "against an overly enthusiastic embrace of then-president-elect Donald Trump". He is one of the rare Saudi journalists to condemn repression in the country. In one of his last tweets, he criticised the lawsuit filed against a Saudi economist, Essam al-Zamel, after his arrest by Saudi authorities. A view of dried lake Poopo affected by climate change, in the Oruro Department, Bolivia, September 1, 2017. REUTERS/David Mercado/Files By Jane Chung and Nina Chestney SEOUL/LONDON (Reuters) - The world's leading climate scientists this week are preparing the final version of a cornerstone United Nations report to assess whether global temperatures can be kept in check this century to prevent the most damaging effects of global warming. The U.N.'s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is meeting this week in Incheon, South Korea, and plans to discuss the report, which will determine whether global warming this century can be kept to a limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit). The IPCC aims to release the Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5C on Oct. 8. "The main issue of the report discussion will be around how we can get to a 1.5 degree limit and what will be the carbon (emissions) budget available to do that," said Friederike Otto, acting director of the Environmental Change Institute at Oxford University. In 2015, nearly 200 nations pledged in Paris to limit the global average temperature rise to "well below" 2C above pre-industrial times while "pursuing efforts" for a tougher 1.5C goal. The IPCC report, seen as the main scientific guide for combating climate change, will provide guidance on the required actions to combat climate change. There has already been a rise of 1C since the mid-1800s as industrialisation produced rising emissions of carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas blamed for climate change. According to a draft of the report seen in June but subject to change, governments can still limit temperatures below 1.5C but only with "rapid and far-reaching" action. The draft said current pledges in the Paris Agreement are too weak to limit warming to 1.5C. The document said there was a need to increase renewable energy output by 60 percent between 2020 and 2050, while energy from coal should be scaled back by two-thirds. By 2050, that means renewables would supply between 49 percent and 67 percent of primary energy. Story continues Since the agreement was reached, U.S. President Donald Trump has withdrawn the United States from the Paris accord. "On the policy side of reducing emissions I think there will be a lot of points of disagreement," said Michael Grubb, professor of international energy and climate change policy at University College London. "If they fail to reach an agreement, it will be down to a fundamental division on climate justice between fossil fuel producers (and the U.S. administration) and more vulnerable countries such as small island states who feel their existence is under threat," Grubb said. (Reporting by Jane Chung in SEOUL and Nina Chestney in LONDON; Editing by Christian Schmollinger) The service is called VIA and it was developed via a collaboration with overseas financial services One of Singapores largest telco provider, Singtel, has launched a cross-border payment service called through its QR-based mobile wallet, Singtel Dash, The services initial rollout is in Thailand, which was made possible through VIA, a mobile payment alliance Singtel inked with its regional associate AIS and Kasikornbank, Thailands largest digital bank. Singtel Dash users will be able to shop at over 1.6 million Thai merchants displaying the VIA brand and Thai QR code. Likewise, through the alliance, Thai tourists will be able to use their mobile wallets AIS GLOBAL Pay and Rabbit Line Pay which currently number at 5 million users to make purchases in Singapore. These merchants and services include Comfort Delgro taxi services, KFC, Pizza Hut, Breadtalk and 7-Eleven. Also Read: IMDA, MHA award US$1.82M funding to 4 security-tech companies in Singapore The benefits of VIA, which is powered by B2B cross-border mobile payments network, Transferto, is that users do not have to fuss about carrying foreign currency and incurring cross-border transaction fees. Singtel will progressively expand this alliance to include other regional associates Airtel in India, Globe in the Philippines, Telkomsel in Indonesia, and non-telcos including Chinas Ping An eWallet, owned by Ping An Insurance Group. The VIA alliance is aimed at unifying Asias fragmented payments scene by connecting different mobile wallet systems across the region. As more people travel around the region, we want them to be able to enjoy the ease and familiarity of using their local mobile wallets abroad, said Arthur Lang, CEO of Singtels International Group, in an official statement. VIA will enhance the payment experience for millions of consumers including our Groups customer base of more than 700 million. We see a tremendous opportunity to drive the adoption of mobile payments which supports ASEANs push towards financial inclusion and vision of a single digital market, he added. Image Credit: Singtel The post Singtel launches cross-border mobile payment service in Thailand; other Asia markets to follow appeared first on e27. Energy Ministry evaluating proposals for Tamor project The government is in the process of selecting a Chinese joint venture partner for the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) to develop the Tamor Storage Hydroelectric Project, making the state-owned power utility unhappy as it wants to execute the scheme on its own. BEIRUT (Reuters) - Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Moualem said on Tuesday that Turkey was capable of carrying out its obligations under its Idlib deal with Russia, which involves the removal of armed radicals from a demilitarised zone that Ankara will patrol. Turkey is a supporter of Syrian rebels fighting to oust President Bashar al-Assad. Its deal last month with Russia - an ally of Assad - averted a Syrian government assault on Idlib, the last major rebel foothold in Syria. "According to our information, we believe that Turkey is capable of carrying out its obligations," Moualem said in an interview with the Lebanese channel al-Mayadeen, referring to the Sochi agreement Ankara struck with Moscow over Idlib. Under the agreement, a demilitarised buffer zone patrolled by Russian and Turkish forces will run 15-20 kilometres (10-12 miles) deep along the contact line between the insurgents and government forces. The deal also requires the withdrawal of insurgents deemed "radical" by Turkey from the area by October 15. The Turkish army has had a small presence along the contact line since setting up a series of observation posts earlier this year. In the televised interview on Tuesday, Moualem also saidmilitants in Idlib needed to hand over their heavy and medium-sized weapons before December. (Reporting By Angus McDowall, Kinda Makieh and Omar Fahmy; Editing by Gareth Jones) Thousands of Armenians heeded a call by reformist Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to protest in the capital Yerevan on Tuesday as MPs approved a bill making it harder to disband parliament and hold snap elections. Pashinyan, who came to power in May following weeks of mass rallies, has been at loggerheads with the majority of lawmakers in parliament, who are allied to former president Serzh Sarkisian. The former journalist, 43, aims to hold snap polls before the end of the year in an attempt to weaken Sarkisian's influence but has been frustrated by his opponents. Sarkisian was forced from power after a 10-year stint as president but parliamentary elections are not scheduled until 2022. Thousands of people gathered within an hour of Pashinyan's call, blocking exits from the parliament building as well as nearby streets with vehicles and shouting "Nikol! Nikol!" "By approving this bill, the Republican party and forces that supported it have officially declared the existence of a counter-revolution," Pashinyan told the crowd, where some protesters shouted "Snap polls!" Some angry protesters made their way into the parliamentary courtyard but Pashinyan asked them not to break in and later went inside to negotiate with lawmakers. Pashinyan said he would resign within days "so that nobody thinks that I'm holding on to this post". If he resigned, Pashinyan could trigger an election -- but only if parliament failed to select a new prime minister, twice. Pashinyan, who has campaigned against corruption and for economic reform, has sought new elections while still at the peak of his popularity. Deputy parliament speaker Eduard Sharmazanov said the bill approved Tuesday aimed to "defend freedom and rights of lawmakers", denying it was to prevent a snap poll. (AFP file photo) Two senior editors at national broadsheet The Straits Times have been disciplined amid an internal inquiry into their improper relations with a subordinate, said Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) on Wednesday (3 October). In a statement, the media giant which owns the paper said, (SPH) convened an internal inquiry after a member of its staff from The Straits Times newsroom was hospitalised last week. She is now recovering at home. SPH added that it had found sufficient grounds to conclude that the two editors concerned had breached the companys code of conduct. Both editors will face disciplinary action commensurate with the seriousness of their actions. Yahoo News Singapore understands that the two editors allegedly had relationships over separate periods with an SPH scholar in her 20s. She worked directly under the two men in separate departments. The editors have also apparently been told to stay away from the newsroom. In response to queries from Yahoo News Singapore, SPH declined to comment on the reason for the subordinates hospitalisation and whether any police report has been made with regard to the matter. Disciplinary actions to be taken SPH said that one editor would be removed from his post, demoted and redeployed, while the other will be given a written warning, have his salary docked and redeployed. SPH did not disclose the names of the editors. Our top priority is to ensure she receives all medical attention and assistance she needs as well as to provide help to her family at this difficult time, said SPH in reference to the subordinate in question. SPH takes a serious view of any transgressions of its code of conduct for its staff and will not hesitate to take appropriate measures following a full and transparent inquiry process, the company added. Supervisors using the posts to get into relationships On Wednesday evening, a town hall meeting was held at the SPH office in Toa Payoh. Helmed by ST editor Warren Fernandez, it was called at the 11th hour following a report by The Online Citizen that named one of the editors. Story continues Fernandez informed the employees that a committee of inquiry had been convened following the subordinates hospitalisation, when serious allegations were made. The committee was headed by an individual outside ST in order to ensure a fair and transparent process and completed its investigations on Tuesday. In response to a staff members query, Fernandez said that the misconduct by the editors related to supervisors using their positions to get into relationships. He added that, as far as he knew, police are not investigating the matter. We want to make clear that this kind of behaviour is not acceptable in the ST newsroom. Both of them have done good work in the ST newsroom we will try our best to support them through this difficult period, he added. We decided that we wouldnt do an immediate termination largely because of the good work theyve done. Fernandez also acknowledged that staff would face many questions from their friends on the matter. Tell them that this is not what the ST newsroom is about. We have respect for our staff and we dont treat staff in an untoward way, he said. More Singapore stories: Jurong Bird Parks male great pied hornbill with cancer undergoes surgery, gets prosthesis Cop recounts pulling hysterical suspect to safety from Rochor Canal Police arrest 73 in seven-day multi-agency operation A high-level security dialogue between China and the United States was postponed at the request of Washington, Beijing said on Tuesday as bilateral tensions rise on various fronts, from trade to the military. The annual diplomatic and security dialogue, which was to include US Defence Secretary James Mattis and Chinas Defence Minister Wei Fenghe, was scheduled in principle for mid-October, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said on a statement on the ministrys website. The US side recently expressed its wishes to postpone the dialogue, Hua said, adding the two sides would continue to maintain communication over the talks. The statement came after media reports suggested that China had cancelled the annual meeting. The New York Times quoted an unnamed American official as saying that China told the administration of US President Donald Trump on Friday that a senior military official would not be meeting Mattis. Relations between Beijing and Washington have dropped to new lows as the trade war has escalated. The two powers have also become increasingly confrontational on the military front, particularly in the disputed South China Sea. On Sunday, a Chinese destroyer nearly collided with USS Decatur in the waters after making what the Americans described as an unsafe and unprofessional manoeuvre meant to warn the US vessel, which was sailing close to Gaven Reefs, to leave the area. The US Navy said the Chinese destroyer moved within 41 metres (135 feet) of the US warship and the two nearly collided. Separately, the Trump administration has imposed sanctions on the Chinese Peoples Liberation Armys Equipment Development Department for buying weapons from Russia. Washington also irked Beijing late last month with the approval of a US$300 million arms sale to Taiwan, a self-governing island that Beijing sees as a breakaway province. This article United States called off top security talks, China says first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018. The United States is expected to make its offensive cyber warfare capabilities available to NATO, officials said Wednesday, as the alliance seeks to strengthen its defences against Russian electronic attacks. Britain and Denmark have already publicly committed cyber resources to NATO, and Washington is expected to announce that it will follow suit on Thursday at a meeting of defence ministers in Brussels. Alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg said cyber attacks on NATO countries were becoming "more frequent... more sophisticated... more coercive" and any contribution of cyber capabilities was welcome. "We see cyber being used to meddle in domestic political processes, attacks against critical infrastructure, and cyber will be an integral part of any future military conflict," Stoltenberg said. The three Baltic states -- Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia -- say they come under near-daily cyber assault, with government departments, banking systems and the power grid coming in for attack, and point the finger at former Soviet ruler Russia. Moscow is also blamed for interfering in various European elections through campaigns of disinformation on social media. Most recently, Washington accused Russia of leading a disinformation campaign in Macedonia through social media to discourage voters from taking part in last weekend's referendum on changing the country's name. The name change is crucial to Macedonia's hopes of joining NATO -- a step Moscow opposes. The US Treasury took aim Tuesday at Japan's largest Yakuza organized crime syndicate, placing four senior officials of the Yamaguchi-Gumi on its sanctions blacklist as well as two companies tied to the gang. "We are ramping up pressure on this dangerous Japanese crime syndicate and local gang leaders who profit from everything from sexual exploitation, to weapons smuggling, and extortion," said Sigal Mandelker, Treasury Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. The two companies placed on the sanctions list were Yamaki KK, which owns the land under the Yamaguchi-gumi headquarters in Kobe, and Toyo Shinyo Jitsugyo KK, which manages the headquarters as well as other real estate used in the syndicate's diverse businesses. The individuals hit with sanctions were Utao Morio, manager of the headquarters and former chief executive of Yamaki; Chikara Tsuda, current Yamaki CEO; Yasuo Takagi, chief executive of Toyo Shinyo Jitsugyo; and Katsuaki Mitsuyasu, the latter company's former chief. The sanctions freeze any assets of those named that are under US jurisdiction and prohibit US individuals and companies from dealing with them. "By exposing this broad network of front companies and individuals supporting the Yamaguchi-gumi Yakuza syndicate we intend to disrupt the global financial infrastructure of this illicit transnational criminal organization," said Mandelker in a statement. Google tells Hong Kong: traditional approach is not the smart choice, as report reveals a city lagging behind rivals on e-commerce Travel and retail businesses in the city should drive new technological solutions instead of waiting for consumer demands to shift their offerings, Google Hong Kong said. The global tech giant made the remarks on Wednesday as it unveiled a report titled Hong Kong Smarter Digital City 2.0, documenting the progress of digital development in five sectors travel, finance, retail, living and people as well as presenting suggestions. The study came ahead of Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngors annual policy address next week. Hong Kongs top official is expected to announce initiatives to enhance the citys advances in innovation and technology. Commissioned by Google, independent market research company Ipsos carried out in-depth interviews as well as multiple polls, including some targeting businessmen and one focusing on more than 1,500 consumers from Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Guangzhou. The report revealed only 30 per cent of local residents and corporations believed Hong Kong is a smart city, ranking it third behind Tokyo and Singapore. Despite local officials racing to create a smart city, drawing on a HK$50 billion (US$6.37 billion) fund to boost the industry, only 14 per cent of those asked thought the government was significantly investing in making Hong Kong a smarter city, it added. The was a decrease of one third from 21 per cent in 2017. What holds Hong Kong back? First and foremost is a traditional mindset, said Leonie Valentine, sales and operations managing director at Google Hong Kong on Wednesday during its media briefing. Valentine said only 50 per cent of small and medium-sized firms agreed that digital was fundamental to their businesses, 16 per cent less than their counterparts in Shenzhen and Guangzhou. She said some Japanese traditional retailers that Google had worked with massively transformed their businesses by using new technologies. Theyre using really innovative technology like augmented reality to make sure that their customers have a better fit of their products, she said. Story continues The retailers allowed consumers to put their measurements in an app for them to find clothes that can fit them, she said, it helped boost efficiency and cut cost on the return of goods which were in the wrong size for consumers. The ensuing report revealed the local travel industry had made the most progress among the five sectors, partly fuelled by changes in consumer behaviour. For example, the number of people using smartphones to check in to their flights and navigate during their trip jumped about 10 per cent. Despite these advances, the study pointed out that only 22 per cent of consumers regarded Hong Kongs tourism and travel industry as having successfully digitised its services. It said consumers were still overwhelmed with crowded and confusing offers from online travel agencies, hotels and airline companies, with 47 per cent saying price comparisons should be made easier. Thirty-five per cent of local residents requested better real-time price bidding on flights and hotels to improve their travel booking experience. Many travel businesses in Hong Kong are cautiously waiting for more evidence of local consumer demands shifting, rather than directing consumers to new, smarter solutions, the report stated. This wait-and-see approach will not help Hong Kong establish itself as a smart city and transform one of its most four crucial industries. Similar problems affected the local retail industry, whose business culture the researchers found to be risk-averse. This wait-and-see approach will not help Hong Kong establish itself as a smart city Google Hong Kong report Rather than consumers being resistant to change, often the reticence stems from the retailers who have delayed or resisted enacting new technologies or initiatives, the report stated. It said only 17 per cent of small and medium-sized retailers in Hong Kong had engaged in e-commerce, compared with 46 per cent of their counterparts in Shenzhen and Guangzhou. Concerns relating to implementation costs were the most common reason the businesses cited for refraining from digitisation. Looking ahead, the researchers urged small and medium-sized businesses to pitch themselves both offline and online, adding that investment in technology and encouragement of digital interaction could help retailers create a seamless experience for their customers. This, in turn, shortens the decision cycle, alleviating uncertainty around product choice, product availability, or concerns around quality and suitability, the report added. This article Google tells Hong Kong: traditional approach is not the smart choice, as report reveals a city lagging behind rivals on e-commerce first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018. (PHOTOS: Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA)/Facebook) A 63-year-old woman was fined $7,000 for smuggling 490 embryonated duck eggs into Singapore, said the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) and Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) in a joint news release on Wednesday (3 October). Le Thi Ung had hidden the eggs weighing a total of 78.4kg in two styrofoam boxes and was caught when ICA officers conducted checks on her baggage upon her arrival at Changi Airport in September. Her case was subsequently referred to the AVA for investigation, which found that the eggs contained developing duck embryos, widely known as balut, and were purchased from a wet market in Vietnam. Balut is a popular street food that is boiled and eaten from the shell in the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries. She had contravened the Wholesome Meat and Fish Act for importing duck eggs from non-approved sources, the authorities added. Currently, there are no approved sources of balut eggs. The import of food, including meat and eggs, and their products, are regulated for animal health and food safety reasons. Meat and eggs, and their products, can only be imported from accredited sources in approved countries that comply with Singapores food safety standards and requirements. Illegally imported food products, which may not have undergone the necessary heat treatment to inactivate the (bird flu) virus, is a risk for public and animal health, AVA and ICA added. Any person who illegally imports meat products from unapproved sources may face a maximum fine of $50,000 and/or jailed up to two years or to both for the first conviction. In the case of a second or subsequent conviction, the offender is liable to a maximum fine of $100,000 or jailed up to three years or to both. Members of the public can refer to AVAs website or download AVAs mobile app SG TravelKaki for more information on travellers allowances for meat products from overseas travels. Other Singapore stories: Story continues Two Straits Times editors disciplined amid probe into improper relations with subordinate Art teacher jailed 22 months for molesting Secondary 2 student Activist Seelan Palay fined $2,500 for taking part in public procession A staff member removes the Iranian flag from the stage after a group picture with foreign ministers and representatives of the U.S., Iran, China, Russia, Britain, Germany, France and the European Union during the Iran nuclear talks at the Vienna International Center in Vienna, Austria July 14, 2015. REUTERS/Carlos Barria/Files By Stephanie van den Berg THE HAGUE (Reuters) - The World Court ordered the United States on Wednesday to ensure that sanctions against Iran, due to be tightened next month, do not affect humanitarian aid or civil aviation safety. Judges at the International Court Of Justice (ICJ) handed a small victory to Tehran, which had argued that sanctions imposed since May by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump violate terms of a 1955 Treaty of Amity between the two countries. But U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo rejected the decision. He said the United Nations court, often called the "World Court", had no jurisdiction over the sanctions, which Pompeo said were essential to U.S. security interests, and that Washington would "terminate" the little-known treaty with Iran. "This is a decision frankly that is 39 years overdue, Pompeo told a news conference. Iran is abusing the ICJ for political and propaganda purposes and their case, as you can see from the decision, lacked merit. Pompeo said the United States had already taken steps to ensure that the sanctions, which it intends to tighten next month, do not impact humanitarian aid -- regardless of the court's ruling. The court order issued on Wednesday was temporary, pending a resolution of Iran's full lawsuit against Washington at the ICJ, something that could take years. Iran's Foreign Ministry said in a statement "the decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the U.S. sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel. The United States must comply with its international commitments and lift obstacles to Iranian trade, it added. The ICJ is the United Nations highest court for resolving disputes between nations. Its rulings are binding, but it has no power to enforce them, and both the United States and Iran have ignored them in the past. The court said assurances offered by Washington to ensure sanctions do not affect humanitarian conditions were "not adequate". Story continues "The court considers that the United States must. ..remove by means of its choosing any impediment arising from the measures announced on 8 May 2018," said Presiding Judge Abdulqawi Yusuf, reading a summary of a ruling by the 15-member panel of justices. MORE SANCTIONS PLANNED The sanctions may not hurt "exportation to the territory of Iran of goods required for humanitarian needs such as medicines, medical devices and foodstuffs and agricultural commodities as well as goods and services required for the safety of civil aviation," he said. While U.S. sanctions "in principle" exempt food and medical supplies, the court said "it has become difficult if not impossible for Iran, Iranian nationals and companies to engage in international financial transactions" to purchase such goods. The Trump administration argued last month that Iran's request was an attempt to misuse the court and that the 1955 treaty specifically ruled out using courts to resolve disputes. The treaty was signed long before Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution which ended friendly relations between the countries. U.S. State Department Legal Adviser Jennifer Newstead had said Iran's real quarrel was its frustration over the U.S. pullout from the nuclear pact, under which Tehran restricted its disputed uranium enrichment programme under U.N. monitoring in exchange for a lifting of most international sanctions. Trump's unilateral move has put it at odds with the other signatories to the deal, including Washington's close European allies Britain, France and Germany, as well as Russia and China. Washington nonetheless plans to pursue a new series of sanctions due to go into effect Nov. 4 aimed at curtailing Iranian oil exports, the lifeblood of its economy. (Additional reporting by Toby Sterling and Anthony Deutsch in Amsterdam, Lesley Wroughton in Washington and Bozorgmehr Sharafedin in London; Editing by Mark Heinrich) Ex-Gurkhas warn of protests over unmet demands Ex-British Gurkha soldiers have warned of further protests if their concerns are not addressed by governments of Nepal and the UK by the end of October. People carry items from the shopping mall which was damaged following earthquakes and tsunami in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018. Rescuers try to reach trapped victims in collapsed buildings after hundreds of people are confirmed dead in a tsunami that hit two central Indonesian cities, sweeping away buildings with massive waves. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) Singapores Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Tuesday (2 October) that the Singapore Armed Forces will be delivering humanitarian supplies to areas affected by Fridays earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Indonesias Sulawesi island, while assisting in disaster relief efforts. Two Singapore Civil Defence Force officers will also be participating in a joint 10-day mission to Central Sulawesi. The Singapore government will also be contributing US$100,000 (S$138,000) to help kick off the fund-raising effort by the Singapore Red Cross. Those interested in making donations to the disaster relief efforts can turn to the Mercy Relief and Singapore Red Cross fund-raising micro-sites. Will you be lending any kind of support to the disaster relief effort? Have your say in our poll and leave a message below. Related stories: Sulawesi earthquake, tsunami: Singapore offers humanitarian aid to Indonesia PHOTOS: Death toll from Indonesia quake-tsunami rises over 1,200 Expressway study agreement inked The Nepal Army, which is tasked with building the Kathmandu-Tarai expressway, has signed a deal with a Korean company to prepare the detailed project report for the shortest link between the Capital and the plains being developed since August last year. First NRNA World Experts Conference to be held in Kathmandu The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has been making preparations to hold the first ever NRNA World Experts Conference in Kathmandu on October 12-14. Kenneth Womack is the author of a multivolume study dedicated to the life and work of George Martin. The second volume, Sound Pictures: The Life of Beatles Producer George Martin (The Later Years, 1966-2016), was published in September. Geoff Emerick grew up as a working-class lad in North London only to make his name as one of the most gifted and innovative sound engineers of his day. Born in Londons Crouch End area on Dec. 5, 1945, Emerick joined the staff of EMI Studios at age 16 after his father wrote to the stately studio on Abbey Road inquiring about work for his technically minded son. Having been hired as an assistant engineer, Emerick began working at the studio on Sept. 3, 1962. Advertisement On his second day on the job, Emerick worked the evening session when the Beatles appeared at EMI Studios to record Love Me Do and a cover version of Mitch Murrays How Do You Do It for Parlophone A&R head George Martin. That same night, John Lennon famously rejected How Do You Do It before presenting Martin with Please Please Me, which, after Martin challenged the band to speed up the songs tempo, saw the Fab Four soaring toward the top of the charts in the new year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On his second day on the job, Emerick worked the evening session when the Beatles appeared to record Love Me Do. Over the next few years, Emerick cut his teeth as a young EMI staffer who was promoted from assistant engineer to lacquer cutter to mastering engineer to balance engineer. During this period, he occasionally worked Beatles sessions, including the July 1963 session in which the group debuted She Loves You for Martin, as well as during landmark recording sessions for such Beatles classics as I Want to Hold Your Hand and A Hard Days Night. During this period, he engineered recordings by Judy Garland and the Hollies, as well as Manfred Manns U.K. chart-topper Pretty Flamingo. Advertisement Emericks big break came in 1966, when, at just 20-years-old, he was invited by Martin to serve as the Beatles sound engineer to replace EMI stalwart Norman Smith, who had taken on the role of producer for Pink Floyds debut album The Piper at the Gates of Dawn. Emericks career with the Beatles began in fine style, with his first recording as the Beatles sound engineer involving the radically experimental Tomorrow Never Knows for the Revolver LP. For the groundbreaking track, he famously captured Lennons vocal through a rotating Leslie speaker in order to meet the Beatles expectations for sounding like the Dalai Lama singing on some distant mountaintop. In 1967, Emerick proved his mettle in the studio during the recording of the groups Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club album, for which the engineer was feted at the annual Grammy Awards. In July 1968, Emerick notoriously resigned from the Beatles fold during the production of The Beatles (popularized as The White Album), claiming that the bandmates growing tensions inside the studio had become simply too much to bear. By April 1969, Lennon and Paul McCartney had enticed Emerick back to the Beatles production team during the recording of The Ballad of John and Yoko single, which set the stage for Emericks later work on Abbey Road, the Beatles swan song LP. Advertisement Advertisement After the groups disbandment, Emerick served as an employee of Apple Corps. At the Beatles invitation, he supervised the construction of Apple Studio in the basement of the companys Savile Row headquarters. In the ensuing years, Emerick worked on numerous recording projects for McCartney, including Wings Band on the Run (1973) and London Town (1973), as well as McCartneys Tug of War (1982) and Flaming Pie (1997) solo albums. Over the years, he served on the production team for numerous high-profile acts, including Elvis Costello, Badfinger, Cheap Trick, Jeff Beck, Supertramp, America, and Kate Bush. In 2004, he enjoyed critical acclaim for his efforts on Nellie McKays debut album Get Away From Me. In 2007, he produced a 40th-anniversary tribute to Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band for broadcast on BBC Radio, with contributions from such artists as Oasis and the Killers. All told, Emerick won four Grammy Awards for his innovative engineering work. Advertisement Advertisement Beginning in 1984, Emerick relocated to Los Angeles. In 2006, he published his best-selling memoir, titled Here, There and Everywhere: My Life Recording the Music of the Beatles, which he co-authored with music journalist Howard Massey. In his memoir, Emerick wrote that [w]orking with the Beatles was unlike working with any other artists. With them, anything and everything was possible; they had zero tolerance for the words no or cant. On the other hand, if something wasnt right, they knew it, right away, and they had no problem changing direction and moving on. There was no prevaricating; no ifs, ands, or buts; no maybes. It was either good or it wasnt. In recent years, Emerick had become a regular fixture as a lecturer at fan conventions and host of production workshops. He died in L.A. on Tuesday, at age 72, after reportedly suffering a heart attack. After a mysterious silence and public absence that provoked international headlines, Chinese superstar Fan Bingbing resurfaced on social media Wednesday after a state-run outlet reported China had fined her $130 million for tax evasion. Fan, one of Chinas biggest stars (and best known to American audiences as Blink in X-Men: Days of Future Past), hadnt been seen since July 26. Rumors suggested the government may have targeted her because of so-called yinyang contracts, in which a star is paid an official salary for tax purposes and then another, higher salary in a private contract, a common practice in the industry there. Speculation about her whereabouts traveled around the world. Advertisement Then on Wednesday, state-run outlet Xinhua reported Fan and companies she represented had been ordered to pay a fine of $130 million to settle tax evasion charges. Of that, Fan was ordered to pay $70 million personally. She apparently will not face criminal prosecution beyond the fine, but her agent was arrested, reportedly for interfering in the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an ominous-sounding message on Weibo, Fan apologized and wrote, I have been through pain and suffering I have never had before. I have had deep and profound self-reflection. I feel shamed and guilty for what I have done. Neither she nor the official news outlet offered any explanation for where shes been for the past several months. As the New York Times notes, Fans prominence suggests that the authorities intended to send a broader signal with the investigation. Senior White House official Stephen Miller has been using the Senate Supreme Court hearings as a smokescreen to implement new policies against legal immigration because, as Late Nights Seth Meyers describes it, getting off on publicly attacking illegal immigrants wasnt enough. Lately, Miller introduced a proposal that would hinder legal immigrants chances of getting permanent residency and citizenship if they use any form of government assistance. Reports suggest that led some immigrants to avoid government help to purchase baby formula or food. As Meyers highlights, Fox News then rolled out former Immigration and Customs Enforcement acting director Thomas Homan to blame the far-left media for misinforming the American people that the Trump administration is racist. Meyers responds: The left doesnt exactly have to do anything to make Trump sound more racist. The White House also recently capped refugee entries to the U.S. to a historic low of 30,000, which too bears Millers fingerprints. But thats why Trump gets along so well with people like Stephen Miller, because theyre both racist and hate poor people, especially the most vulnerable people in the world, like refugees, Meyers says, in an angry monologue that only goes for cursory laughs. He notes the White House took $260 million from cancer, HIV, and AIDS programs to fund immigrant detention centers across the country. It feels like a lifetime has passed since the shape of Donald Trumps penis was headline news, but somehow it has only been two weeks since the Guardian published a leaked excerpt from Stormy Daniels memoir that fatefully compared the presidents phallus to a character from Mario Kart. The book, Full Disclosure, has since been published, and its not all about Trump, also delving into Daniels childhood and career as a porn star and director. Still, Jimmy Kimmel did not even pretend to care about any of that during Daniels appearance on his show, instead asking for details about sex with Trump and letting Daniels spank him with a copy of her book. Advertisement Throughout the interview, Kimmels other guest, Sarah Paulson, reacts with excitement and horror, audibly crying out Oh no! Thats saying something, given that Paulson stars on a show where people are regularly killed and tortured in gruesome ways. But the climax (sorry) of the whole interview is, of course, the conversation about Trumps penis. Do you know how much hate mail Ive gotten from people who love Mario Kart? Daniels asked. In one day I managed to ruin half of Americas childhood and mushroom farming everywhere. And shes about to do it againKimmel asked her to pick Trumps penis out of a lineup of orange models. At least itll provide good fodder for your Toad erotica. Better Life Lab is a partnership of Slate and New America. Electrician Erica Scott clearly remembers the day she gathered with her co-workers for an early morning start at a South Slocan Dam construction site in Canada. Her boss asked if anyone was certified to drive the Zoom Boom, a heavy-duty lift designed to withstand Canadas winters. Scott says she raised her hand amid a group of silent men, but the assignment went to a young man, barely 19, who was not certified to operate one. She recalls that after he crashed the Zoom Boom into a fence, she threw her hard hat on the ground and demanded that her certified skills in Zoom Boom operation be put to use. The team handed her the keys. Advertisement For Scott, who is based in Hawaii and has worked as a journeyman and electrician since 1999, this was just one example of what she characterizes as an unfair work environment in construction. Another is pay. Electricians earn tiered incomes based on their level of experience and have access to more work depending on their level of certification, but Scott found men were often tiered up before women with commensurate experience and certificationsand research shows men are hired more often than women, increasing their earnings. But, she says, I was a single mom for most of my working career. There was nothing else I could do that would come close to the amount I was paid as an electrician. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scott isnt alone. A new report from my colleagues at the Center for Education and Skills at New America shows that although postsecondary training generally improves worker outcomes like employment and earnings, women pay more and get less out of their nondegree credentials, which include educational certificates, certifications, and licenses. According to the report, both the supply and demand of nondegree credentials has increased, with the number of certificates awarded by postsecondary institutions increasing by nearly 50 percent in the past 15 years and more and more employers requiring proof of additional education. With growth this rapid, understanding where credentials add value and who benefits from them matters more and more. After digging into the data on adults without bachelors degrees from the nationally representative Adult Training and Education Survey, the studys authors discovered large disparities in worker employment and earnings based on gender, occupation, and nondegree credential attainment. Advertisement Americas workforce has strong occupational segregation, particularly among the 60 percent of the U.S. population without bachelors degrees. In 10 out of 16 occupational areas the authors examined, either men or women dominated the industry, making up more than 70 percent of the workforce without a bachelors degree. And in general, workers in industries dominated by women tend to earn less than workers in industries dominated by men. In a male-dominated field like technology, the study found, obtaining a license or certification was strongly associated with earning higher wages, compared with workers (male or female) in the field without credentials. In female-dominated fields, a much smaller percentage of workers who obtained a license or certification earned more than men or women without a credential. The report also found that, in general, women earn less than men with the same type of nondegree credential. For example, only 10 percent of women with certificates earned more than $50,000 annually, while almost one-third of men with certificates earned more than $50,000 annually. Advertisement Advertisement You can be doing the job as well or better than the guys for 10 years, proving yourself over and over, and theyre still waiting for you to mess up. Erica Scott And even though men and women pursue nondegree certificates at the same rate, women were more likely to pay out of pocket for their training, often at high-cost for-profit institutions for the enrollment availability and flexibility, while men were more likely to pursue and fund their training through their employer or union. In order to improve recruitment, many employers in male-dominated technical fields have gotten rid of degree requirements, instead opting for employer-provided trainings and credentialing programs, such as Googles suite of certification courses, to hire more workers quickly. In fields such as health care and educationwhich are dominated by womenmore states and counties are requiring nondegree credentials for entry-level workers to professionalize the field, and those courses are often paid for by the workers themselves, costing up to thousands of dollars and taking anywhere from a couple weeks to a couple years to complete. For workers looking to change careers, juggling families, and coping with stagnant wages, that can be a major barrier, especially in light of rising expectations that workers obtain more and more certifications to remain competitive. Advertisement Im a former teacher, so I was alarmed to see that in female-dominated occupations like education and library, it really doesnt matter if you obtain an educational certificate or a license or certification, says study co-author Lul Tesfai. She notes that more than 75 percent of workers with a nondegree credential in education and library occupations were earning less than $30,000 a year. That number stands out when compared with the workers in the male-dominated fields of science, engineering, and architecture with similar levels of educationonly 4 percent of those workers earned less than $30,000 a year. Advertisement So are nondegree credentialing programs making gender inequality worse? The answer isnt simple. While credentials in majority-female fields like domestic work dont necessarily guarantee an earnings increase, they offer workers a place to gather, increase their expertise, and learn about their rights to fair wages and hours. Advertisement Advertisement Leydis Munoz, a full-time nanny and member of the National Domestic Workers Alliance in New York, acknowledges that while obtaining certifications doesnt guarantee employers will pay higher wages in her line of work, it helps domestic workers become confident in their skills and professional worth. Before getting certified I didnt know I had laws protecting me. Now that Im certified, I feel like my job is a career. It helps me say how I want to work, ask for the benefits I need, and know what pay I deserve, she says. But as Scott says, Youre always on the outs when youre a woman. You can be doing the job as well or better than the guys for 10 years, proving yourself over and over, and theyre still waiting for you to mess up. Its never enough. Credentials could help to close that gap, but we need to know where they work and where they dont. While fields like construction and technology have higher returns on investment after completing nondegree credentials, those returns predominantly serve men. Studies show some workers in women-dominated fields believe certifications improve job quality and security, but those benefits dont always come with higher wages. And credentialing programs are sprawling and decentralized, so we should further study their impact on gender inequality before moving toward more wholesale funding or professionalization efforts. Pursuing higher education has often been thought of as a pipeline to success, but stories like Scotts show that no matter what jobs women choose, no matter what skills they acquire, they contend with additional barriers. The rise of credentials shouldnt present another. This post is part of Outward, Slates home for coverage of LGBTQ life, thought, and culture. Read more here. Until recently, most attacks on the transgender community attempted to stoke fears of transgender women. By portraying trans women as unnaturally and dangerously masculineimposters at best and sexual predators at worstantitrans rights groups have sought to drum up opposition to trans people in public bathrooms and use anti-trans sentiment as a wedge against Democrats. Trans men have proved more difficult to demonize, since cis men dont generally fear men with a transition history in their bathrooms or locker rooms. So, for the most part, they have been ignored. Advertisement This indifference is starting to change. Anti-trans propagandists have begun to focus more on trans men and boysperhaps in reaction to the success in court of transgender boys like Gavin Grimm, Ashton Whitaker, and Max Brennan, each of whom won the right to equal treatment at school. But rather than painting trans men as predators, anti-trans activists portray us as victims, led astray by peers and fundamentally incapable of knowing our own minds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ironically, the attitude that trans men are really damaged, naive, easily led women seems to have begun on websites with an ostensibly feminist ethos, such as 4thWaveNow and Transgender Trend. It subsequently crossed into the mainstream with the publication of a paper by Lisa Littman of Brown University in August. Littman studied the attitudes and beliefs of parents who frequented anti-trans websites and had a child between the ages of 11 and 27 who, they believed, had falsely claimed to be transgender. A total of 82.8 percent of these parents reported that their child was assigned female at birth. And although Littman referred to the children as adolescents and young adults, or AYAs, she repeatedly quoted parents who use female pronouns and refer to them as their daughters. Sympathetic media accounts have echoed this language, referring to the kids under discussion as daughters and girls, and echoing the parents belief that media and peers who promote trans acceptance are turning these daughters into trans men. Advertisement If your teenage daughter suddenly declares herself transgender, should you assume shes mature enough to make decisions that will permanently affect her health, fertility, and future? fretted Jillian Kay Melchior in the Wall Street Journal in one typical response on the right. In another, the Economists article on Littmans research concluded with a warning that squashing research risks injuring the health of an unknown number of troubled adolescent girls. Advertisement Weve learned that no matter how young trans girls are, theyre never too young or too vulnerable for the anti-trans camp to portray them as dangerous and predatory, too much of a risk to cis girls to be treated with dignity and respect. Now, it seems, no matter how old transgender men areremember, Littmans study included an adult of 27 years old!were not old enough to make health decisions for ourselves, or know our own minds. This creepy suggestion of susceptibility to peer influence in trans boys suggests that trans men must not be allowed to access medical treatment for gender dysphoria and that any act of advocacy on behalf of trans youth has the power to poison young minds, turning weak-willed girls into trans boys. Advertisement Advertisement That is incredibly dangerous and also sexist as hell. The stereotype that women are unable to reason or know their own minds isnt new. It was used to reject womens suffrage, on the basis that it was useless to give to women the vote, since theyd only vote however their husbands told them to. (By this logic, married men had two votes, an unfair advantage over single men.) Women were kept from the workplace under the theory that their biological and emotional weakness made them unsuited for labor, and arguments about womens emotional instability were used to prevent them from seeking public office. Now, these same stereotypes about the dimness of women have been repurposed to suggest that transgender men shouldnt be believed when we speak about the truths of our own lives and that we must be protected at all costs from the freedom to determine our own paths. Advertisement Advertisement Theres a word for a system where women are kept powerless for their own good, where protection of womens virtue and innocence means restricting them and barring them from public life: patriarchy. Imagine if the Economist or the Wall Street Journal published an argument that women or girls were being influenced by their peers to spend profligately, and therefore we must consider denying them bank accounts. I think people would recognize that for the outdated sexist claptrap it was. And when these same stereotypes are deployed to suggest that trans men are really just silly, unserious, untrustworthy girls, we must see it as one and the same. Youthful experiments with identity dont always mean a child is trans. Every natal female who tries out a short haircut or a polo shirt wont go on to transition, and a small number of people who temporarily identify as trans will later come to believe that theyve made a mistake. Only about 1 or 2 percent of trans people who seek gender confirmation surgery report regretting it, and the available data suggest that detransition is uncommon at all stages, while rates of regret decline over time. Advertisement Advertisement Young people who question their gender identity deserve the freedom to work those questions out for themselves, regardless of their sex. Youth who explore their gender identities should not be stereotyped as gullible and emotionally unstable because theyve been assigned female at birth, any more than they should be stereotyped as vicious sexual deviants by virtue of having been assigned male. No one who believes in equality between the sexes should give any weight to the condescending, patriarchal notion that, if trans men are really women, we are easily influenced and must be protected from ourselves. It is beneath us to treat such concerns seriously when they are nothing more than repackaged sexism. Want more Outward? Queer your ears with our monthly podcast, available via Apple, Google, and most other platforms. Government tightens local representatives visits abroad Elected local representatives will now be allowed to visit abroad for official purpose if invitations are approved by the federal government. The available evidence says that Brett Kavanughs confirmation now rests with just three Republican senators: Arizonas Jeff Flake, Alaskas Lisa Murkowski, and Maines Susan Collins, all of whom joined forces last week to demand the GOP give the FBI a week to investigate the sexual misconduct allegations against the Supreme Court nominee. Senate Republicans hold a narrow 5149 advantagewith Vice President Mike Pence in their back pocket as the potential tiebreakerso they cant afford to lose more than one of those three and still confirm Kavanaugh along party lines. Advertisement And yet as the Senate waits for the FBI report, its noteworthy that Flake, Murkowski, and Collins arent the only senators being targeted by heavy-spending outside groups pressuring them to vote one way or the other on Kavanaugh. A half-dozen other senators have also found themselves the subject of at least one big-dollar ad blitz announced in the past two days alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The American Civil Liberties Union, which is opposing Kavanaugh, unveiled a $1 million campaign on Monday with a target list that includes Democrat Joe Manchin of West Virginia, and Republicans Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, Cory Gardner of Colorado, Deb Fischer of Nebraska, and Dan Sullivan of Alaska. Advertisement And then on Tuesday, the conservative Judicial Crisis Network, which has reportedly already spent more than $10 million supporting Kavanaugh, announced its own plan for another $400,000 in advertising to keep the pressure on Manchin and fellow red-state Democrat Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota, both of whom voted to confirm Donald Trumps previous SCOTUS pick, Neil Gorsuch, and both of whom are up for re-election in states Trump won in landslides. Advertisement Advertisement So what, exactly, is going on here? Are there really that many senators who could be the deciding vote for whether Kavanaugh is confirmed? Barring a major surprise in the FBIs findings, the answer is almost certainly not. If the GOP ends up with the votes to confirm Kavanaugh along party lines, its possible that Heitkamp and/or more likely Manchin break ranks to prove their independence to Trump voters back home, but its nearly unthinkable either would be willing to be the deciding vote on their own. (Manchin, for one, has already reportedly discussed voting as a bloc with the GOP trio.) Advertisement Meanwhile, while the four other GOP senators on the ACLUs list have claimed that theyll wait until the investigation is done before they make up their minds, each has happily taken a back seat to Flake, Murkowski, and Collins. Theres no reason to suspect thats going to change. Gardner is the chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, for instance, and Fischer is up for re-election in a dark-red state. (The ads targeting Capito and Sullivan, meanwhile, can be explained in part by the ACLU trying to get the most bang for their buck. If youre going to pay for airtime in Alaska to reach Murkowski, you might as well make it a two-for-one by tacking on Sullivans name to the kicker.) Even if the FBI uncovers something more damning than the current allegations against Kavanaugh, no one expects any of the four to jump ship before Flake, Murkowski, and/or Collins do. Advertisement Still, this 13th-hour ad blitz isnt just about running up the score, or scoring a few early points ahead of 2020. There is safety in numbers in politics, and it would be far easier for Flake, Murkowski, and Collins to vote to confirm Kavanaugh if Manchin and Heitkamp are right there with them. (Likewise, itd be easier for Heitkamp to vote for Kavanaugh if Manchin does, and vice versa.) On the flip side, voting against confirmation gets a little bit easier for the GOP trio in the unlikely event another Republican or two are willing to defect as well. Dont expect any of these six senators to be the swing vote, thenbut should any of them be willing to break with their party, that might help swing Flake, Murkowski, and Collins in one direction over another. Guards at the Adelanto Immigration and Customs Enforcement Processing Center, the countrys largest privately run immigration detention facility, have allowed immigrants detained there to regularly hang nooses of braided bedsheets in their cells, despite multiple suicide attempts over the past year, according to a report made public Tuesday by the Department of Homeland Securitys Office of Inspector General. The finding comes from a scathing alert based on an unannounced visit in May to the California detention center. During that visit, federal inspectors found guards improperly putting immigrants in disciplinary segregation without first going through a formal disciplinary hearing, guards improperly shackling detainees, doctors checking off medical forms without actually visiting detainees, detainees going so long without dental care they lost teeth, and some detainees waiting dangerously long for medical care, which was so insufficient in the facility that it could be blamed for three deaths. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The immigrants at the facility had been detained for illegally crossing the border or living in the U.S. illegally, and most were accused of no other crimes. The report found that 15 out of 20 cells inspected had these nooses. Some detainees said they could be unfurled to create a sense of privacy in their cells or serve as a clothesline, but in an interview, one detainee told inspectors, Ive seen a few attempted suicides using the braided sheets by the vents, and then the guards laugh at them and call them suicide failures once they are back from medical. In March 2017, one man had died from suicide using a bedsheet noose, according to the report. Afterward, there were two more suicide attempts involved bedsheets. There were seven suicide attempts in total from December 2016 to October 2017. ICEs lack of response to address this matter at the Adelanto Center shows a disregard for detainee health and safety, the report concluded. Advertisement The haphazard use of segregated detention violated ICE standards too. Guards were found to have used it without following proper protocol, and detainees with limited English were not told in Spanish why they were being detained separately. Advertisement One detainee with a disability requested to be placed on administrative segregation but was instead placed in disciplinary segregation, where he was kept in his wheelchair for nine days, never leaving to sleep in a bed or brush his teeth. We also observed medical staff just looking in his cell and stamping his medical visitation sheet rather than evaluating the detainee, the report said. Medical care seemed persistently negligent: From November 2017 to April 2018, detainees filed 80 medical grievances (about 34 percent of all grievances filed) with the center for not receiving urgent care, not being seen for months for persistent health conditions, and not receiving prescribed medication. Four of the 13 detainees we interviewed reported waiting weeks and months to see a doctor. They also reported that their appointments were sometimes canceled with no explanation, and that they were then placed back on the waiting list for a future appointment. In 2017, the medical unit conducted a quality improvement investigation and identified 60 to 80 clinic appointments that were canceled because contract guards were not available to take detainees from their cells to their appointments. Advertisement Advertisement ICEs review of three deaths in the center since 2015 blamed medical care deficiencies related to providing necessary and adequate care in a timely manner. Advertisement ICE oversees the facility, which holds nearly 2,000 adults, but it is operated by the Geo Group. The group is supposed to follow standards set by the government, but the Adelanto Center has been the subject of numerous complaints, and last year, about 35 detainees held a hunger strike over the conditions. According to the New York Times, ICE said it was implementing corrective actions to make sure the center meets requirements and that it would conduct a full inspection of the facility. But the problem is likely not limited to Adelanto, as ICE has come to rely increasingly on these private contractors to manage their facilities. The stringent immigration policies of the Trump administration has led to a rapidly growing detainee population, which has put a strain on the already existing facilities. According to the Times, there are more than 40,000 immigrants in detention in the U.S. The Department of Homeland Security was not prepared to execute the Trump administrations zero-tolerance policy toward immigrants, according to a report released Tuesday by the departments watchdog. Most critically, the DHS did not have a central database to track families separated under the immigration policy, contrary to what it had falsely claimed on June 23. The zero-tolerance policy, implemented in April, separated more than 2,500 children from their parents. Although a U.S. district court judge ordered their prompt reunification in June, the DHS was, and still is, incredibly slow to do so. The DHS was also criticized for providing inconsistent numbers on how many kids it was holding. Advertisement The report explains the inconsistencies and delay. To begin with, the U.S. does not have a fully integrated national-level system to input data about its immigrants. Agencies responsible for carrying out the zero-tolerance policy, like Customs and Border Protection, Health and Human Services, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, each have their own system. On June 23, the DHS announced that it had a central database storing the whereabouts of each separated family. However, inspectors found no evidence such a database exists. What they instead found was a flawed manually-compiled spreadsheet prone to human error. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was also a lack of communication between each agency. For example, CBP officers had to report their information about immigrants on Microsoft Word documents and email them to HHS, a manual process vulnerable to human error and increasing the risk that a child could become lost in the system, the report said. Advertisement The probe also provides harrowing details about the time periods and conditions in which children were kept. The Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol sector exceeded the 72-hour maximum period that a minor can be detained for at least 564 children, while the El Paso sector did so for 297 children. One child was held for a staggering 25 days. These chain-link holding facilities, often lacking beds and showers, are meant for short-term detention. In most cases, immigrant parents were not told that their children would be separated from them until it was too late. One parent the inspectors office interviewed was told he would be reunited with his 5-year-old daughter after he appeared in court, only to be handed a flyer later that explained he would in fact be separated from her. Afterward, he was taken away in a bus to a detention facility without his daughter. No means of linking families together was provided, eitherno ID bracelets, fingerprints, or photographs. According to a Thursday court filing, 136 children still remain separated from their families, supposedly ineligible for reunification. Senate Republicans, through less brash methods than the presidents, have ramped up their effort to discredit Christine Blasey Ford with a sworn statement from a man professing to be Fords former boyfriend and contradicting answers she gave before the Senate Judiciary Committee. In the statement obtained by Fox News on Tuesday, the ex-boyfriend claims Ford had helped her close friend prepare for a polygraph test, despite Fords statement to the Judiciary Committee that she had never given tips or advice to anyone preparing to take a polygraph test. Advertisement The redacted statement by the ex-boyfriend, who has remained anonymous, also claims that Ford had not, in the six years the two dated, expressed a fear of flying or of closed quarters, tight spaces, or places with only one exit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ford stood by her testimony, and a source told Politico that she is not going to get into a tit-for-tat. The friend mentioned in the statement, Monica McLean, denied the polygraph claim. I have NEVER had Christine Blasey Ford, or anybody else, prepare me, or provide any other type of assistance whatsoever in connection with any polygraph exam I have taken at any time, she told Politico in response. The ex-boyfriend said he had dated Ford from 1992 to 98, and he said he found her truthful and maintain no animus towards her. According to the New York Times, the ex-boyfriend is Brian Merrick, who said, in an article in the Wall Street Journal, that he met Ford while she was pursuing a masters degree at Pepperdine University and found her sweet, cute and with a good attitude. Advertisement He wrote in the letter that Ford had never mentioned Kavanaugh to him, which is consistent with her testimony that she did not tell anyone about the alleged assault until 2002. He told the Journal he found it odd Kavanaugh had not come up in their relationship, but I would never try to discredit what she says or what she believes. Advertisement He also said he broke up with Ford when they were dating long-distance and he found out she had been unfaithful while she was living in Hawaii. He said she continued to use a credit card they shared nearly a year after the breakup. When confronted, Dr. Ford said she did not use the card, but later admitted to the use after I threatened to involve fraud protection, he said. He said they had not been in contact much since. Advertisement The part of his statement that Kavanaugh supporters seized on related to an anecdote about McLean, whom he described as Fords life-long best friend and who was allegedly interviewing for a job with the FBI and the U.S. attorneys office at some point in the 1990s. I witnessed Dr. Ford help McLean prepare for a potential polygraph exam, he wrote. Dr. Ford explained in detail what to expect, how polygraphs worked and helped McLean become familiar and less nervous about the exam. Dr. Ford was able to help because of her background in psychology. Advertisement Here is the exchange from the hearing between her and outside prosecutor Rachel Mitchell that Kavanaugh supporters have pointed to as being potentially a lie: Advertisement Advertisement MITCHELL: Have you ever had discussions with anyone, beside your attorneys, on how to take a polygraph? FORD: Never. MITCHELL: And I dont just mean countermeasures, but I mean just any sort of tips, or anything like that. FORD: No. I was scared of the test itself, but was comfortable that I could tell the information, and the test would reveal whatever it was going to reveal. I didnt expect it to be as long as it was going to be, so it was a little bit stressful. MITCHELL: Had have you ever given tips or advice to somebody who was looking to take a polygraph test? FORD: Never. The second question, while not completely unrelated to the topic at hand, seemed strange at the time, and some speculated that she was setting Ford up for a perjury trap that was never triggered. It now appears Mitchell, who has since released a report aimed at discrediting Ford, knew something about the statement, or at least was guided to ask about Ford advising someone about a polygraph. Advertisement Kavanaugh supporters on Wednesday promoted the story as evidence of Fords lack of credibility, and in a letter Tuesday evening, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Charles Grassley cited the statement and demanded Fords lawyers hand over therapist notes, recordings from the polygraph, communications with reporters, and other materials to assess her truthfulness, indicating he believed Ford had lied under oath to the committee about the polygraph test. Your continued withholding of material evidence despite multiple requests is unacceptable, he wrote. On Tuesday night, President Trump openly mocked Ford at a campaign rally, mimicking her inability to remember details about the party where she was allegedly assaulted. The FBI report on the allegations against Kavanaugh could be handed to the Senate committee as early as the end of Wednesday. Democrats have asked for a redacted version to be released to the public, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has asked for the FBI to brief the Senate on the report. Republican leaders have ignored these requests, according to Politico. Lets get one thing out of the way right now: It wont be Donald Trump. The president has on several occasions suggested that he should win the Nobel Peace Prize for his diplomatic outreach to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Several other figures, including South Korean President Moon Jae-in and former British Foreign Minister Boris Johnson, have suggested he deserves it. Bookmakers are giving him bizarrely good odds. But dont count on it. For one thing, Trump is probably not even nominated. The Norwegian Nobel Committee reported in February that a nomination for Trump was found to have been forged. (The full list of 331 nominations wont be publicly revealed for 50 years, though many are made public by the nominators.) Trump has since been nominated by two members of Norways governing Progress Party and a number of Republican members of U.S. Congress, but he wont be eligible until 2019. Trump is intensely unpopular in Europeincluding in Norway, the committees home country, where his approval rating was just 13 percent in a poll this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But if not Trump, who will win the prize? Its a notoriously tricky award to predict given the number of candidates and opaque process, but here, in no particular order, are a few intriguing possibilities: Moon Jae-in and Kim Jong-un The biggest story on the peacemaking front this year is the improving climate on the Korean peninsula, where a devastating nuclear conflict appeared quite possible just last year. Kim Jong-un wouldnt be the first official from an authoritarian regime or human rights abuser to win the prize, but it still seems unlikely that the committee would overlook the prison camps, starvations, and executions that are commonplace under his regime, not to mention the fact that he has yet to actually give up his nuclear weapons and doesnt appear to be in any hurry. Advertisement Could Moon take home a solo prize for the unlikely rapprochement, following in the footsteps of his predecessor Kim Dae-jung, who won it for his conciliatory sunshine policy in 2000? Its possible, but keep in mind that nominations had to be submitted by Jan. 31, before the historic Kim-Moon meeting in April, and the committee may want to see how this process goes before handing out any hardware. Trump would presumably not react well to being left off the podium. The World Food Programme The U.N. organization tops Peace Research Institute Oslos annual informal Nobel shortlist, with Director Henrik Urdal writing that an award could highlight the crucial work the organization is doing for populations fleeing from conflict, while also ensuring continued commitment from its funders to keep up their endeavours to make sure victims of conflict, displacement and natural disasters are fed and cared for. Advertisement Advertisement Its certainly a timely message, with a catastrophic famine in Yemen and other conflict areas. The award could also highlight the continued relevance of the beleaguered United Nations, which won the prize as a whole in 2000. On the other hand, after awards to the International Atomic Energy Agency (2005), the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (2007), and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (2013), the committee may want to avoid highlighting yet another U.N.-affiliated agency. SOS Mediterranee, Doctors Without Borders, International Rescue Committee Udval also suggests the award could go a group working to address the Mediterranean refugee crisis, which has claimed more than 1,600 lives this year. SOS and Doctors Without Borders jointly operate the rescue ship Aquarius, which just last week was forced to dock in France after its registration was revoked under political pressure from the Italian government. The IRC has worked to provide medical care and other assistance to refugees on both sides of the Mediterranean. Advertisement Advertisement Refugee resettlement has become one of the most contentious political issues in Europe amid a rising tide of populism and nativism, and the peace prize could put some of the attention back on the humanitarian stakes of the crisis. Journalists: Reporters Without Borders, Cumhuriyet, Novaya Gazeta, or Raif Badawi Its been a brutal year for press freedom and the safety of journalists, with lowlights including the killing of three Russian reporters in the Central African Republic, the imprisonment of Reuters reporters in Myanmar, the arrest of prominent blogger Wael Abbas in Egypt, andjust this weekthe apparent detention of well-known Saudi columnist Jamal Kashoggi. Almost more discouraging have been attacks on the press from leaders of democratic countries, including Trumps description of the media as an enemy of the people. Advertisement Advertisement The committee could highlight the importance of press freedom and safety by recognizing the leading global advocacy group for journalists, independent publications like Turkeys Cumhuriyet and Russias Novaya Gazeta, or the imprisoned Saudi blogger Badawi. An award for the latter would almost certainly provoke a diplomatic crisis between Norway and Saudi Arabia, which has not reacted well to criticism of its human rights practices lately. Joshua Wong and Hong Kong democracy protesters A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers led by Sen. Marco Rubio nominated Wong and other leaders of the umbrella protest movement, which has sought to protect Hong Kongs democratic institutions from increasing pressure from Beijing. As a teenager, Wong helped organize the 2014 protests that shut down central Hong Kong and was briefly jailed for it earlier this year. Advertisement While a worthy candidate for recognition, Wong and his comrades wouldnt necessarily benefit from the award. After imprisoned Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo won the award in 2010, his wife was placed under house arrest and the Chinese government cracked down even more harshly on his associates. Liu died in custody last year, and his wife was finally allowed to leave China this summer. George Soros Heres an intriguing one. The controversial financier and philanthropist was nominated by a group of academics from his native Hungary in honor of his support for anti-communist opposition groups in the 1980s and his backing of civil society groups through the Open Society Foundation. In recent years, his name has become a one-word shorthand for sinister left-wing (often implicitly Jewish) influence, employed by right-wing leaders from the United States to Israel and Russia, and particularly in his native Hungary where Viktor Orbans government has lately taken aim at the Soros-founded Central European University. Advertisement Advertisement Soros is a complex figure, and he doesnt seem likely to win, but imagine the reactions if he did! Next year may ultimately turn out to be the more interesting Nobel contest. If inter-Korean relations continue to improve, the case for awarding Moon may grow stronger. (The case for Trump and Kim will not.) This summers shocking diplomatic breakthrough between Ethiopia and Eritrea may also get Ethiopias Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed a look. This year also saw surprising transfers of power following elections in Malaysia and the Maldives. These developments all missed the cutoff date for this years prize, but if progress begun by those leaders is sustained, they may warrant some consideration. As always, thats a very big if. Heres a striking image: Capitol Police arent allowing staffers, members of the public, or the media to walk along the 4th floor of Dirksen pic.twitter.com/GSdcv8vPMq Alan He (@alanhe) October 3, 2018 Advertisement Thats the floor that Republican Maine Sen. Susan Collins office is on. Collins, of course, holds one of the key swing votes that will determine whether Brett Kavanaugh is confirmed to the Supreme Court, and as such is of great interest to reporters/constituents/protesters at the moment. Her staffers say they didnt tell Capitol Police to block such individuals from having access to the hallway above, but they also didnt contest the decision. Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell complained this morning about protesters harassing his members at airports, which was seemingly a reference to the two self-identified sexual assault survivors who approached Georgia Sen. David Perdue at D.C.s Reagan National Airport; when one extended her arm to shake his hand, he told her not to touch him, then ducked into a mens bathroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement .@senatemajldr: "I want to make it clear to these people who are chasing my members around the hall here, or harassing them at the airports, or going to their homes - we will not be intimidated." https://t.co/evWunNp55f pic.twitter.com/x5E6nEU05L The Hill (@thehill) October 3, 2018 Arizona Sen. Jon Kyl, who was appointed to John McCains seat, is also sick of the badgering: Advertisement Sen. Kyl to anti-Kavanaugh protestor: would you please leave me alone? Burgess Everett (@burgessev) October 3, 2018 It does seem like one option to avoid being harassed and targeted by vicious mobs consisting of, uh, two sexual-assault survivors, would be to not insist on confirming an individual who faces multiple credible allegations of sexual assault to the Supreme Court. Just a thought! WATCH: President Trump mocks Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, who has accused Trump's Supreme Court pick Judge Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct, during rally in Mississippi. https://t.co/pZfWN8IFMV pic.twitter.com/81YEs8oXr5 MSNBC (@MSNBC) October 3, 2018 Advertisement During a rally Tuesday night in Southaven, Mississippi, President Donald Trump dramatically changed course and, after days of being restrained in his response to Christine Blasey Fords accusations, mocked her Senate testimony outlining an alleged sexual assault at the hands of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Before a partisan crowd, Trump put on an affected voice and dismissed and attempted to discredit Fords accusation by highlighting the gaps in her memory about the evening, now, 30-plus years later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres Trump on the stump: What hes going through 36 years ago this happened. I had one beer! Right? I had one beer! Well, you think it was nope, it was one beer! Oh, good. How did you get home? I dont remember. Howd you get there? I dont remember. Where is the place? I dont remember. How many years ago was it? I dont know. I dont know. I dont know! I dont know! What neighborhood was it in? I dont know. Wheres the house? I dont know. Upstairs, downstairs, where was it? I dont know. But I had one beer. Thats the only thing I remember. And a mans life is in tatters. A mans life is shattered. His wife is shattered. His daughters who are beautiful, incredible young kids. They destroy people. They want to destroy people. These are really evil people. The moment was truly jarring departure from Trumps somewhat restrained rhetoric about Ford, but not a particularly surprising one. On Aug. 7, while driving himself to the airport, Elon Musk tweeted nine words, supposedly in part to amuse his then-girlfriend with a 420 joke. Am considering taking Tesla private at $420. Funding secured. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 7, 2018 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tweet set into action a course of events that would cost him a great many things. Hes lost his chairmanship of the Tesla board, a position he had held since before he was CEO. (Hell still be chief executive, though.) It cost him $20 millionor $2.2 million per wordand Tesla, of which he is the largest shareholder, another $20 million. (Teslas violently fluctuating stock is still far below what it was before the fateful day, so the final amount lost for both man and company could be much greater.) One might say it cost him his girlfriend, whom he unfollowed 12 days later, but hey, there was a lot going on. But most importantly, they might have cost him his power to tweet such ridiculous, reckless thingsor to tweet unsupervised at all. Advertisement Twitter, it turns out, is a privilege, not a right. As part of last weekends SEC settlement over the errant, stock-rocketing tweet, Musks privileges may be revoked. As Forbes reports: In addition to forcing Musk to step down from his chairman role of Tesla, the SEC is mandating the company add two independent board members and establish new communications protocols that oversee his communications. This likely means that he will need approval for all his Tesla-related tweets. Advertisement According to the terms of settlement released on Saturday, Tesla is required to put in place additional controls and procedures to oversee Musks communications. Stephanie Avakian, co-director of the SECs Enforcement Division, said the remedies were aimed at strengthening Teslas corporate governance and oversight in order to protect investorsin other words, Musk tweets are so explosive that shareholders need legal protection from them. (The part about protecting Musk from himself is implied.) Advertisement Its not clear what exactly these patronizing controls and procedures will look like, but theres no doubt they will apply to his Twitter feed, considering this was the medium responsible. Its likely Musk will have to run all his tweets past his overseersnot unlike the Twitter committees used in government, a protocol the SEC itself uses, according to a Wall Street Journal explaining the levels of review government tweets traditionally go through: Write, Review, Edit, Seek Approval, Wait, Edit, (Maybe) Send. (Right now, White House staffers are no doubt wondering what on earth they have to do to get an SEC enforcement for Trumps America-related tweets.) Advertisement Whatever form they take, these controls are a rather light punishment, in the scheme of things, for what the SEC is calling fraud. Without this settlement, Musk risked losing his position as Tesla CEO, not to mention being barred from serving as CEO or chairman of any public company for a set period of time. But for MuskMr. Hello, have you met the Internet?a Twitter timeout might just be the greatest punishment of all. Advertisement Advertisement Though Tesla couldnt possibly have written a protocol already, the order seems to be working: As of writing, Musk has not tweeted anything about Tesla since the settlement was announced on Saturday. He did, however, tweet the video for Naughty By Natures O.P.P.a song about being down to engage in sexual activity with Other Peoples Pussy/Penis/Propertyat 1:22 a.m. Monday. Such a tweet raises the question: Which communications will need oversight? Forbes suggests that Musk will need approval for Tesla-related tweets, but he is so synonymous with his brand that its impossible to separate the two. When Musk tweets about measuring the Gigafactory in units of hamsters, is that a Tesla-related tweet? Advertisement Gigafactory in units of hamster pic.twitter.com/9BAchcBX73 Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 30, 2016 Advertisement Or when he makes juvenile jokes about how the Model 3 looks like a naughty word (or about unveil[ing] the D), is that a Tesla-related tweet? Advertisement Model 3 was going to be called Model E, for obvious dumb humor reasons, but Ford sued to block it, so now it is S3X. Totally different :) Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 24, 2017 Likewise, when Musk tweets about time-traveling aliensWhy did we waste so much time developing silly rockets?is that a SpaceX-related tweet? When Musk tweets random thoughts that pop into his head, like that he is going to build a tunnel boring machine, are those work-related tweets? One would argue yes, considering his record of follow-through. Advertisement In a sense, every Musk tweet is a Tesla-related tweet. The eccentric entrepreneur is so tied up in the company that even the amount of sleep he is getting has the potential to sway the markets, noted Forbes. When he tweets a totally unsubstantiated allegation that a rescue diver is a pedo or publicly bullies female journalists, those 280 characters affect Teslas image. As Felix Salmon wrote of the latter, Musks harassment of Lopez is obsessive and deranged, to the point at which it should worry every shareholder of any company where he serves as CEO. Its not clear which topics the protocol will cover, or whether every word we hear from Musk will henceforth be delivered through a Tesla board filter. Presumably, weed will be off the table, meaning shareholders will be insulated from the kinds of stock plunges that followed footage of a red-faced Musk smoking a blunt during an interview with Joe Rogan (nonshareholders will also be insulated from enduring such images). But theres no doubt investors can breathe a marijuana-free sigh of relief. Now they just need an SEC settlement to force Musk to get some sleep. A couple of weeks ago, I noticed something strange was happening to my Google Chrome web browser. Where Chrome had always allowed me to browse the internet as an anonymous user, suddenly my browser had signed itself into my Google account. A bit of investigation (and a visit to a nerd forum) pointed me to the cause: Chrome had logged itself in after I visited my Gmail account. The change in Chromes behavior, it turns out, was not a bug. Its part of a new technical feature in the browser called identity consistency between browser and cookie jar. Despite the gritty technical name of the feature, it represents a truly fundamental change in the way Chrome works. For the first 10 years of Chromes existence, Chrome was simply a typical web browser. You had the option to sign the browser into Googleand thus take advantage of Googles many data-sharing and cloud-synchronization optionsbut you never had to. In the stroke of an update, the sign-in became mandatory: If you happened to visit a Google property, the browser would attach itself to your Google account. To Googles credit, it recognizes the privacy implications of this change, and simply signing the browser into Google does not immediately send your data to Googles servers. But it brings users within an accidental click of sharing their bookmarks and browsing history with Google. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After I wrote about the change, I was taken aback by the tech communitys vociferous response. It seems that many technical professionals feel the same way I do: that their web browser should be just a web browser, rather than an arm of Googles online juggernaut. The tech backlash even caused Google to back down, sort of. It announced a forthcoming update last Wednesday: Chromes auto-sign-in feature will still be the default behavior of Chrome. But youll be able to turn it off through an optional switch buried in Chromes settings. This pattern of behavior by tech companies is so routine that we take it for granted. Lets call it pulling a Facebook in honor of the many times that Facebook has accidentally relaxed the privacy settings for user profile data, and thenfollowing a bout of bad press coverageapologized and quietly reversed course. A key feature of these episodes is that management rarely takes the blame: Its usually laid at the feet of some anonymous engineer moving fast and breaking things. Maybe its just a coincidence that these changes consistently err in the direction of increasing user engagement and never make your experience more private. Advertisement Advertisement Whats new here, and is a very recent development indeed, is that were finally starting to see that this approach has costs. For example, it now seems like Facebook executives spend an awful lot of time answering questions in front of Congress. In 2017, when Facebook announced it had handed more than 80 million user profiles to the sketchy election strategy firm Cambridge Analytica, Facebook received surprisingly little sympathy and a notable stock drop. Losing the trust of your users, were learning, does not immediately make them flee your business. But it does matter. Its just that the consequences are cumulative, like spending too much time in the sun. Advertisement Its this background that makes Googles recent changes to Chrome so surprising. Google is the one major Silicon Valley firm that has avoided much of the tech backlash thats spattering its peers. While the idea that Google is doing better than those companies might seem strangeGoogle is one of the biggest data collectors in the world, after allI would argue that to a large extent, this is because Google has invested massively building user trust. Advertisement This investment takes various forms. First, Google has invested relentlessly in securing its infrastructure: When it was hacked (allegedly by China) in 2010, the company not only pulled out of China, but it poured resources into hardening its systems, and even moved its security team into a dedicated building at the edge of their Mountain View campus to thwart physical espionage. Google security engineers brag that they can go toe-to-toe with nation-states, and they back this up by providing nation-state hacking warnings to at-risk users like journalists, politicians, and professors. On the privacy front, Google is the king of targeted advertising, but it largely avoids controversial and upsetting privacy changes like the ones that plague Facebook. Sure, it collects gobs of data, but its generally been upfront about what it takes and what it doesnt. And unlike Facebook, the company almost never loses your data to hackers. Advertisement Advertisement This pro-security strategy has produced tangible benefits for Google. Even when invisible to the average person, its helped to build trust with highly technical users who generally serve as ambassadors and an informal IT help-desk for everyone else. More critically, its allowed Google the breathing room to quietly improve its data collection and advertising businesses without the embarrassing congressional testimony and distractions of a Cambridge Analytica. Of course, the fact that Google is so ubiquitous means that it can afford to be magnanimous: Theres no need to push the privacy envelope with users when youre already getting so much of their data. Advertisement I fear Google is well on the way to becoming a different kind of company. But the recent Chrome changes indicate that Google is not immune to the same pressures that apply to other companies. And while the Chrome update may be only a small sign of that pressure, its hardly the most troubling one. For example, Google recently inked a secret deal with Mastercard to link your credit card transaction information to your web browsing. We can only guess at what it hopes to do with this data. And of course, this summer, the Intercept leaked an internal memo showing that Google is even considering a move back into China, building a custom search engine code-named Dragonfly that will systematically track Chinese users, while providing censored search results that remove results for terms like human rights. Google has for its part claimed that the project was only exploratory, though this explanation is disputed. Its hard to see Google retaining a strong reputation for privacy if it deploys systems like this to a large fraction of the world. Advertisement Advertisement In short, I fear Google is well on the way to becoming a different kind of company, and it worries me. This is not because I inherently love Googleits a profit-making entity, and its shareholders will always come before me. But I worry that it is increasingly trading away my trust for short-term benefits. Even worse, this course change indicates that companies self-interest in maintaining user trust may not be a match for the business pressures that drive them to become more intrusive. Of course, some might say that Im a fool for ever relying on Google products, that I deserve whatever I get for becoming enmeshed in the Google ecosystem. The more extreme version of the argument holds that people who expect privacy must avoid tools like Chrome and Facebook altogether, as though privacy is a value we should all suffer forand one that is the exclusive right of the technical elite. Advertisement Advertisement I reject this argument. Its entirely possible for a company like Google to make good, usable products that strike a balance between privacy and profit. Its just that without some countervailing pressure forcing Google to hold up their end of the bargain, its going to be increasingly hard for Google executives to justify it. Advertisement Advertisement In the end, this is why Im moving away from the Google ecosystem. If nothing else works, then at least I can vote with my feetor my fingertips. Disclosures: From 201415, Matthew Green received a grant from Googles Advanced Technologies and Projects division. Slate is a partner with New America and Arizona State University in Future Tense. Google has donated money to New America, a think tank, as has former Google executive chairman and CEO Eric Schmidt, who also once served as chair of New Americas board. In August 2017, a former New America employee who was critical of Google alleged that he was fired because Schmidt, held undue influence at the organization, a charge New America denied. When news broke in mid-September that the U.S. government was about to test the presidential alert of the nationwide wireless emergency alert system, the reaction was swift. Dont let Trump anywhere near emergency alerts, said a CNN Opinion piece. Alyssa Milano tweeted: I dont want this. How do we opt out, @fema? I know trump isnt big on consent but I dont consent to this. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but opting out is not an option herenor should it be. You will receive the test message Wednesday, even if you dont want itbut you should want it. (The test was originally scheduled for September but was moved because of Hurricane Florence.) The U.S. needs a system to alert the public of impending disaster or attack, and there are safeguards in place to ensure that it wont be abused. After this test, you will not receive a middle-of-the-night alert from President Donald Trump about the size of his nuclear button. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While you may not have heard about it before, this alert system is a long time coming. The mandatory system and tests originate from the Warning, Alert, and Response Network Act, signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2006, which mandated the establishment of a national wireless alerting system. The impetus came from the failures to alert citizens during Hurricane Katrina. The National Weather Service issued a warning PERSONSPETSAND LIVESTOCK EXPOSED TO THE WINDS WILL FACE CERTAIN DEATH before Katrina made landfall. The messaging was dire and clear, but the NWS lacked the ability to get this message to peoples phoneslandline or mobileas the federal government had no such centralized phone alert system at the time. The city of New Orleans didnt have a wireless alerting system, either. Advertisement After passage of the 2006 law, local governments, states, the U.S. military, and private companies were able to use newer mass notification systems to send messages via text, email, or voiceusually voice. But those wireless alert systems lacked the engineering to alert large numbers of people simultaneously, and the cellular infrastructure was not built at the time to handle the type of volume for sending thousands of messages through the wire. Networks would crash. Advertisement Furthermore, with these legacy alerting systems, nothing was integrated, interoperable, or interconnected. Each county and state and federal agency was purchasing alerting systems in silos, and they didnt always work with the otherseven though the 2006 law had required a national wireless reporting system, not systems. Advertisement So President Barack Obama signed the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System Modernization Act of 2015, which requires these disparate alerting systems to work together, hence the name integrated. This is not an easy task, as the alerting companies are private companies competing for the same business, and the code of these alerting systems was not built to communicate with one another. I managed an alerting system at the National Institutes of Health in 2010 that was different from the county we resided and different from the two hospitals across the street from NIH. Advertisement This test is not about the current presidents idiosyncrasies. Its about the future. The 2015 law covers three kinds of notifications: Amber Alerts for notifications of missing children, alerts of hazardous weather or other emergencies, and presidential alerts. You do not subscribe to these messages, as they are pushed to your phone. You can opt out of all notifications except for an alert issued by the President. (There is an option in your iPhone to turn off the Amber and weather alerts, though I find it hard to believe that someone does not want to know that a person has kidnaped a child in her neighborhood or that a tornado is going to destroy her house.) While its understandable that this specific presidents Twitter account may have people like Milano a little nervous, the public should want a president to have the authority to alert them in case of an imminent threat, be it a nation-state missile attack or an earthquake and tsunami. Furthermore, the 2015 law directs that the alerting system shall not be used to transmit a message that does not relate to a natural disaster, act of terrorism, or other man-made disaster or threat to public safety. Advertisement Advertisement Beyond the fact that it would be illegal to use the alert system for something trivial, there are measures to prevent abuse. Most importantly, this isnt like sending a tweet. The president does not have a button on his cellphone nor in the Oval Office to issue an emergency alert. If the president approves any alert, the Federal Emergency Management Agency will deliver the alert message via the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System. Even before the president approves an alert to release, he receives a recommendation from White House staff, including members of the National Security Council, on issuing an alert. The NSC Resilience Directorate that supports Trump today has career Department of Homeland Security and FEMA employees, who are veterans of real-world disasters with experience in emergency notifications. Of course, we know that Trump not infrequently disregards advice. But the federal government has a playbook for these alerting situations that places people and procedure in between the president and the alert that is sent to the public. The decision may be the presidents to make, but he doesnt do it alone. Advertisement Advertisement And we cant wait until theres an actual emergency (or until Trump is out of office) to try out the alerts. Its necessary to make sure information goes out accurately and quickly right when it matters most. IPAWS is the same system that allowed the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency to send an erroneous alert of a ballistic missile threat in January, which might not be comfortingbut the false alarm demonstrated exactly why we need to test things. It proved that the system functions largely properly, but it also exposed gaps in its ability to reach all people potentially endangered from the threat. As upsetting as it was, the Hawaii experience had an added upside, in that it laid bare a serious problem: a poorly prepared citizenry for crisis. Some people who did receive the alert in Hawaii reacted poorly by either not taking the threat seriously or not knowing what to do when faced with the threat. Advertisement Advertisement This test is not about the current presidents idiosyncrasies. Its about the future, and it gives us a much-needed opportunity to discuss the need to collectively prepare for potential threatsfor example, superstorms from a changing climateand to look at how we can better communicate both before and after disaster strikes. Delayed upgrades to emergency alert systems have real consequences in life and death situations. On Friday, after a 7.5 magnitude earthquake, the Indonesian government issued a warning about the tsunami that has caused more than 1,300 confirmed deaths thus far. After the 2004 earthquake that killed 230,000 people, the U.S. National Science Foundation contributed $3 million for an updated earthquake and tsunami warning system in Indonesiabut it was never finished. Under the old system still in use, it can take up to 45 minutes to issue an alert. The newer system could have provided alerts within three minutes. Resistance from industry has created delays in implementing upgrades to a modern alert system here at home. CTIA, the association that represents the wireless industry in Washington, stated that recent proposed rules to upgrade wireless alerts pose technical and economic challenges that render implementation infeasible or premature. So maybe you can consider your alert on Wednesday a reminder to reach out to your member of Congress and ask them to support more funding and stronger legislation for the fastest alerting system to save lives. Korea pledges help in forest conservation The Republic of Koreas Ambassador to Nepal, Park Yong-Sik, called on the Minister of Forest and Environment Shakti Bahadur Basnet with a proposal to financially and technically assist Nepal in the conservation of its forest and environment sector. The book also comments on sexual abuse within the Church. News: Receive favorite authors articles by email. Try the new feature and turn on the subscription. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Should Catholic priests be allowed to have a wife and a family? Two Slovak priests argue in their book that celibacy should be voluntary. They ended up suspended from their functions. The suspension came for both authors of the book, The Tragedy of Celibacy - Dead Wife, Michal Lajcha and Peter Luciano Balaz, after the book was published. In the book, they branded celibacy the wound of the Catholic Church that has been festering for eight centuries. The Church doesnt ordain married men, said Michal Lajcha, one of the authors of the book, as quoted by the public-service RTVS. Our book doesnt fight against celibacy, but for enabling married man to be ordained. This, in fact, means voluntary celibacy. Read also: Read also: Bishop denies misconduct allegations Read more At the same time, the authors are critical of the sex abuse scandals in the Catholic Church, saying that celibacy is one of the reasons behind them. The discussion about celibacy and the subsequent reaction of the Catholic Church came around the same time as the latest report about sexual abuse in the Catholic Church was published in Germany by Cardinal Reinhard Marx. Priests want to continue Lajcha, who served in the central Slovak villages of Klak, Ostry Grun and Hrabicov, did not look like your typical Catholic priest. The Defence Ministry explained that the investigation found no flaws in historian's decision to lend old military technology to civic association. News: Receive favorite authors articles by email. Try the new feature and turn on the subscription. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Following the reports that the Russian motorcycle gang Night Wolves established a chapter in the village of Dolna Krupa (Trnava Region), Defence Minister Peter Gajdos of the Slovak National Party (SNS) punished the long-term head of the Institute for Military History (VHU), Miroslav Caplovic. He was temporarily removed from his post for lending discarded tanks and military transporters to the association led by Jozef Hambalek, who at the same time leads the Slovak chapter of Night Wolves, known for their close relations to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Even though it was clear at the time that Caplovic could not be responsible for the fact that the military technology was used by, for example, the paramilitary group Slovenski Branci (Slovak Levies) for training, this was admitted only recently, the Sme daily reported. Caplovic silently returned to his post of VHU head at the beginning of October, the daily wrote. Only a preventive measure The Defence Ministry explained the decision by saying that the investigation has not led to any reasons for permanently removing Caplovic from his post, said its spokesperson Danka Capakova. Read also: Read also: Slovak Night Wolves returned historical equipment Read more As a result, he will lead VHU again, she added for Sme. The Defence Ministry originally claimed that Caplovic exceeded his powers since he did not properly check the civic association. However, the ministry now says that it never doubted his professionalism. His removal from the post was only a preventive measure. Weve been saying from the very beginning that he will be temporarily stripped of his position until the case involving the lending the technology to the Museum of Historical Vehicles Trnava civic association is properly investigated, Capakova added, as quoted by Sme. As she continued, nobody has made mistake. The ministry has not punished anybody for selling the discarded, both immobile and mobile, military technology, Sme wrote. Observers defended Caplovic Caplovic has refused to comment on his return to the post, which he has been leading since 2008. Analysts said some time ago that the steps against him were appropriate. He lent to Hambalek only immobile vehicles that can be used for exhibitions, including the T-55 tank, OT-62 transporter and dysfunctional heavy machine guns, Sme wrote. Read also: Read also: Slovak night wolf Hambalek got a hefty fine Read more He lent them at the beginning of the year, when the Slovak chapter of Night Wolves did not exist and he really thought it would be used by a peaceful civic association for exhibition, Jaroslav Nad from the Slovak Security Policy Institute told Sme back in July. The public was later outraged by the pictures in which the Slovak Levies were driving mobile transporters. The technology did not belong to VHU, it was probably discarded army technology, Sme wrote. Engineering companies Punch and ZF head to the industrial park in Detva. News: Receive favorite authors articles by email. Try the new feature and turn on the subscription. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Czech company Conrop, which produces, develops and sells flexible packaging focusing on the handling and transportation of particularly bulky and liquid materials, officially opened its new plant in Trebisov (Kosice Region) on October 3. Conrop already stared its production in Trebisov in the summer and currently employs 50 people. However, it is planning to create a total of 220 jobs by the end of 2019. Company managing director Radek Horak specified that this investment will mean expansion of its currently insufficient production capacities in the Czech Republic as well as its plant in Brezno in central Slovakia. When choosing a locality for the new plant, Conrop took into consideration the jobless rate and availability of the local job office. In Trebisov, it found an available labour force and a job office, with which it clinched an agreement on gradual re-qualifications of jobseekers. Half of the people currently employed in the Trebisov plant were registered as jobseekers with the office. Economy Minister Peter Ziga pointed out that the Czech company decided to open its plant in Trebisov without any state aid. The ministry, however, would like to give a helping hand to the investor. Well surely discuss the possibilities and conditions for the state to support its production and help them in the plants expansion, said Ziga, as cited by the TASR newswire. New investors in Detva A new investment is also heading to Detva in central Slovakia. On October 3, the Belgian company Punch tapped the foundation stone of its plant for production of components for the automotive industry in the local industrial park in Detva. Tapping of foundation stone of Punch's plant in the industrial park in Detva. (Source: TASR) Punch is scheduled to launch production in its new premises in late 2019. It should employ 352 people. The German company ZF, which will rent part of the production plant from Punch, will create more than 200 work places here. The new investment will include industrial development of products and production tools, within which 30 designers with technical university education will find jobs here. Businessman Marian Kocner threatened murdered journalist Jan Kuciak. News: Receive favorite authors articles by email. Try the new feature and turn on the subscription. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Zoltan A., one of the four people charged in the case of the murder of investigative journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancee, Martina Kusnirova, has testified that the murder was ordered by businessman Marian Kocner. The information has been confirmed for the Dennik N daily by several sources close to the investigation. Zoltan A.s lawyer Livia Knazikova confirmed the information to private broadcaster TV Markiza on October 4. However, for another private broadcaster TV JOJ she later denied that she had confirmed anything. Kocner has not been charged with the murder yet, but the police are collecting the evidence against him, the daily wrote. Read also: Read also: Threats, scandals, and dubious political ties. Who is Marian Kocner? Read more Meanwhile, Kocner was transported from Bratislavas Judicial Palace to the prison in Leopoldov on October 2. The only one who collaborates Zoltan A., a businessman from Komarno whom the police described as a go-between in the case, reportedly said in his testimony that one of the others accused, Alena Zs., told him that the murder was ordered by Kocner. Read also: Read also: An unknown translator, a man who owes a million on taxes Read more Alena Zs., described as a person who gave order for the murder, subsequently turned to Zoltan A. The shooter was, according to the investigators, Tomas S., while Miroslav M. is said to have driven him to Velka Maca, where Kuciak and Kusnirova lived, Dennik N wrote. So far, Zoltan A. is the only one of the accused testifying about the case and cooperating with the law enforcement bodies. It is very probable that by doing so he will reduce his sentence by several years, Dennik N wrote. Kocners threats As the media informed earlier, Kocner threatened Kuciak last autumn, claiming he would throw dirt on him. Kuciak responded by submitting a criminal complaint. The police first did not deal with, and later said that the threat could not even be classified as a minor offence. At the very first press conference held after Kuciaks murder, journalists asked then-Police Corps president Tibor Gaspar about Kocner. However, he rejected the accusations that the police had not done anything to solve the suspicions concerning certain people. Gaspar responded that if a journalist came asking for help, they would certainly act. When asked about Kocners threats towards Kuciak, Gaspar responded that if I had concrete information, I would answer you, as reported by Dennik N. Kocner criticised journalists for their questions concerning the threats at a press conference held one day later. In the meantime, he started attacking journalists in conspiracy media, Dennik N wrote. Read also: Read also: The price of Jan Kuciak's head was 70,000 Read more Who is Kocner? Kocner has been on the scene since the November 1989 revolution. His name appeared on the so-called mafia lists, but he has always acted as someone who cannot be touched. He was close to the representatives of the ruling Smer party, and even did business with Ladislav Basternak, who now faces charges for tax fraud, Dennik N wrote. Moreover, he was also on friendly terms with former general prosecutor Dobroslav Trnka. The cases that involved him often ended with the statement that the deed did not happen or that it cannot be classified as a crime. After several media, including Kuciak, reported about the police ignoring serious evidence against Kocner, things started to change. Kocner was detained in June due to suspicions of falsifying promissory notes for private broadcaster TV Markiza. Since then, he has been held in custody. Even though he has asked for release, the Supreme Court confirmed with its verdict that he has to stay in custody. Kocner's complaint was also addressed and rejected by the Constitutional Court, Dennik N wrote. Wet weather and an off track engulfed Plainridge Park for a second straight day as the Massachusetts Sire Stakes three-year-olds made their first start of the 2018 season in five divisions pursuing of the available purses totalling $163,840 on Tuesday afternoon. Owner Ray Campbell, Jr., trainer George Ducharme and driver Shawn Gray teamed up to win two of the five MASS races while three of last years two-year-old champions, Hashtagmadeyalook, Delco Dusty and Im A Clown, made their bid to repeat as the best at three with wins in their first leg outings today. $41,450 three-year-old colt and gelding trot Winner: Hashtagmadeyalook (Chapter Seven-Royalty Free) 1:58.1 Owner: Ray Campbell, Jr. Trainer: George Ducharme Breeder: Ray Campbell, Jr. Mutuel: $6.00 Kinda Lucky Lindy (Greg Merton) drifted outside at the start of the race before moving up to take the lead by the quarter in :29.2. Merton then backed the half off to a minute with no one pushing the issue. It wasnt until the five-eighths pole that Hashtagmadeyalook (Shawn Gray) pulled from third and trotted alongside the leader before heading into the last turn where it became a full blown match race. The top two pulled away from the field; Kinda Lucky Lindy on the pylons and Hashtagmadeyalook on the outside. They went stride for stride, side by side all the way to the wire and it took a photo to show Hashtagmadeyalook winning by a nose in 1:58.1. It was the fourth win in 10 starts this year for Hashtagmadeyalook who now has earned $50,540 in purses. $39,000 three-year-old filly trot Winner: Ithinkthatsmine (RC Royalty-Super Starlet) 1:59.4 Owner: Ray Campbell, Jr. Trainer: George Ducharme Breeder: Ray Campbell, Jr. After two starters made breaks off the gate in the already short field, Ithinkthatsmine (Shawn Gray) found herself on top by four lengths at the quarter. From there she led stablemate Bag O Chips (Steve Smith) for the remainder of the mile until the top of the stretch when she pulled away by herself and won by six-lengths in 1:59.4. Ithinkthatsmine now has seven wins this year and earnings of $72,230. $40,800 three-year-old filly pace Winner: Delco Dusty (Jeremes Jet-Gypsys Good Girl) 1:54.1 Owner: Jesse De Long Trainer: Jimmy Nickerson Breeder: Jesse De Long Mutuel: $7.20 Delco Dusty (Shawn Gray) went for the front and cruised there unchallenged to the half in :57.1. At that station Rock Me Threetimes (Mitchell Cushing) pulled from third, advanced towards the leader and drew almost even with her at the three-quarter pole. But Delco Dusty responded by pacing away to a two length lead, forcing Rock Me Threetimes to go back to the pylons. Cushing never gave up on the filly and Rock Me Threetimes came on again in deep stretch under heavy urging but Delco Dusty was under a hand drive by Gray and won by a length in 1:54.1. The win time tied Delco Dustys seasonal mark and her second win in eight starts pushed her earnings to $31,118. $21,295 three-year-old colt and gelding pace Winner: Im A Clown (Im Gorgeous-Lordy Miss Scarlet) 1:54.1 Owner: Nelson Malin III Trainer: Kevin Switzer Breeders: KDK Standardbreds and Nelson Malin III Mutuel: $2.20 Going off at 1-9 it was no surprise that Im A Clown (Mitchell Cushing) went to the front and was intent on dictating this race. After getting to the half in :57.4 with everyone single file behind, Im A Clown turned it on the final two quarters posting a :56.3 back half and cruising home with a six length lead to win in 1:54.1. It was the first win of the year for Im A Clown and the time was also a new lifetime mark for the winner. $21,295 three-year-old colt and gelding pace Winner: Pembroke Pharoah (Baron Biltmore-Migraine) 1:54.1 Owners: William Varney and Heath Campbell Trainer: Valerie Grondin Breeders: William Varney and Valerie Grondin Mutuel: $2.40 Twelve (Eddie Davis, Jr.) took early command and opened up a three length advantage going around the first turn. However with Latent Print (Scott Renz) gapping in second, Pembroke Pharoah (Heath Campbell) was rousted from third and eventually made his way to the lead in front of the stands before the half. It was pretty much over at that point as Pembroke Pharoah was pacing well in hand up the backside, past the three-quarters and around the final turn. At the top of the stretch with Campbell sitting chilly, Pembroke Pharoah won at will by three lengths in 1:54.1. Pembroke Pharoah captured a new lifetime mark in winning his sixth win of the year and has now banked $51,575 in purses for 2018. (Standardbred Owners of Massachusetts) If you are considering purchasing a yearling or racehorse and would like to learn more about understanding pedigrees, conformation, and the owner-trainer experience, this workshop is for you! On Friday, October 12, Standardbred Canada will host a Horse Ownership 101 Workshop, in co-operation with The Raceway at the Western Fair District. This will be held in conjunction with the London Selected Yearling Sale at the Agriplex on Saturday, Oct. 13 and Sunday, Oct. 14 and is sponsored by Ontario Racing and Ontario Lottery and Gaming. Starting at 4:30 p.m. at the Agriplex, the workshop will feature a meet and greet with consignors and yearlings and then there will be a one hour presentation / discussion with Anthony MacDonald from The Stable and Howard Pearce from Landmark Stable. They will provide overviews on the racehorse ownership experience and what you can expect in Fractional Ownership Groups. Following that discussion, there will be a tour of The Raceways Paddock. For anyone who wishes to stay on for dinner in Top of the Fair, there will be a $10 per person discount on the dinner buffet. There are a limited number of seats available. To reserve your spot in this FREE Workshop, email [email protected] or contact Kathy or Hailey at Standardbred Canada at (905) 858-3060 x207 or x243. Locals torch tipper after biker killed in Bhaktapur A man died after a tipper hit a motorbike he was riding on at Pandubazaar in Suryabinayak,Bhaktapur, along the Araniko Highway on Wednesday. Man rapes 74-year-old woman Police detained a 22-year-old man on charge of raping a 74-year-old woman on Monday, which happens to be the International Day for Older Persons, in Doti district. The Apprentice 2018 started tonight - but who was the first candidate to go home? The new series kicked off this evening with sixteen brand new candidates from a broad range of backgrounds. Advertisements They all have one thing in common, a passionate desire to secure a 250,000 investment in their business plan and win a partnership with Lord Sugar. This years series sees The Apprentice contestants put through challenges that are bigger and better than ever. Lord Sugar has already invested 2million of his own money in eight businesses, and now hes ready to take a gamble on a brand-new venture. The sixteen hopeful candidates will be whittled down over the next 12 weeks until only one remains. Things started this evening with a boardroom full of quips and commentary on Brexit as Lord Sugar uped the ante right from the start and warned the candidates to expect the unexpected before immediately sending them abroad. As the group headed for the airport, Lord Sugar left them with a strong word of warning ringing in their ears; Remember, this is NOT a holiday. Split into teams of Men and Women, and under the scrutiny of Baroness Brady and Claude Littner, the candidates' went off to Europe. Advertisements They jetted off to this years capital of culture, Valletta, in Mediterranean Malta, on a day-long shopping spree. The challenge itself was an Apprentice classic: Buy a list of items for the cheapest price. Keeping in with their location, they were asked to bag nine Maltese items for the lowest possible prices before reuniting back to the airport by 7pm. There were fines for missing or incorrect items or missing the deadline. The boys team quickly hit the road, but as fish out of water, they were clearly on the wrong scent over an octopus. Meanwhile on the girls' team, fiery personality clashed over negotiations soon rocked the boat. In the boardroom both teams faced fines for missing items, while the girls' team was also fined for missing the deadline. In the end, the boys won the task spending 764 euros including fines to the girls' total of 929 euros. In a heated boardroom, project manager Jasmine Kundra decided to bring back Jackie Fast and Sarah Byrne back to face Lord Sugar. Advertisements And it was Sarah who became the first candidate this year to be told, 'You're Fired!' The Apprentice 2018 continues Wednesday nights on BBC One. MP Rauniyar signed construction contract While the Rautahat District Police Office has issued an arrest warrant against Sumit Rauniyar, chairman of Pappu Construction, holding the company responsible for a boat tragedy last month, his father and lawmaker Hari Narayan Rauniyar is found to have signed the contract for construction of the bridge over Lalbakaiya River in Rautahat. MPs criticise civil servants for poor service delivery The Parliamentary State Affairs Committee has criticised the civil servants for poor service delivery. Nepali carriers in limbo over EC flight restriction Nepali airlines dont know when they will be removed from the air safety list of the European Commission (EC) allowing them to operate in the region because its technical team has still not arrived to assess their status. Nepali Congress student body enforces banda in Kanchanpur Protests against the rape and murder of 13-year-old Nirmala Pant in Kanchanpur have intensified in the past few days as the authorities have failed to arrest the culprits even after two months of the crime. Sri Lanka is a magical place to visit, full of beautiful beaches, ancient wonders, friendly locals, amazing food, wonderful culture and all on an incredibly low budget. The small island nation offers so much to see and do for its modest size which makes it easy and affordable to travel around. Mix this together and you have a backpackers heaven just made for exploration and an epic adventure for both the first time backpacker and the more seasoned travellers alike. Here is our ultimate guide for backpacking Sri Lanka! Travelling to Sri Lanka First things first, you have to get to Sri Lanka! Being an island you will have to fly in. Although there are smaller airports dotted around major towns and cities around the country, the countrys only main airport is in the capital of Colombo and will be likely your only option for international flights. However, Colombo is well connected via the countrys railways and bus routes so getting to other areas of the country is relatively easy, especially if you are heading down the coast first or towards Kandy on your Backpacking Sri Lanka adventure! Visa requirements for Sri Lanka Getting into Sri Lanka is easy and straightforward. Most visitors are required to complete an ETA online before travel which costs around $35 and allows a stay of up to 30 days. Visas for longer are available for an increased price. For most travellers visas on arrival are possible if you fail to organise it before, however, you will likely be queuing for much longer at the border and will pay slightly more. Visitors from some countries also need to show proof of onward travel, however it is advisable that you bring some along (even if its fake!). You should also have 6 months validity on your passport from your arrival date. Accommodation for backpacking Sri Lanka Sri Lanka is well set up for backpacking, however hostels are still relatively new in Sri Lanka with only some of the major places of interests having a few to choose from. Mt. Lavinia on the outskirts of Colombo by the coast is one such area with a few great and modern hostels on offer. However, Sri Lanka as a whole is very cheap and affordable with guest houses being the go to option for backpackers where you will more than likely be able to get a private room for a great price. It is possible to pay as little as 2 a night for a bed in a dorm but we averaged around 5-10 a night which makes it east to afford backpacking Sri Lanka. Book your accommodation for Sri Lanka here: Travelling around Sri Lanka Travelling around Sri Lanka on public transport can be broken down into two main sections for longer trips, train and bus travel. A well serviced and frequent train line runs from Colombo right around the west coast of the country as well as through the middle. The trains are exceptionally cheap and a real experience, many of them travel at a leisurely pace through some of the countrys most scenic landscapes, the train from Ella to Kandy is one of the most amazing in the world and costs hardly anything. Most of the trains dont need to be booked in advance and it is possible to just turn up and buy a ticket on the day, though for Ella to Kandy many do book a day before due to its popularity. For other places not served by the trains there are local buses to take. These are a little more uncomfortable than travelling via train and often will be busy, cramped and loud. However, as backpackers this is all part of the experience! A bonus is that the buses are even cheaper than the trains and often more regular too. For those wanting more comfortable and reliable transport to some of the harder to reach places in Sri Lanka many choose to book private cars. These are often quoted in USD and are much more expensive than the trains or buses, but still much cheaper than you would expect to pay in the west for a similar service. However for most backpackers this option is out of budget. For short trips around town Tuk Tuks are a great option. They cost much more than a local bus but are still well within budget for backpackers. However you must be sure to check the price before and if possible know your route so to avoid being scammed. Book your train, bus or flight for Sri Lanka and across Asia here: Powered by 12Go Asia system Budget and money in Sri Lanka The currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee, abbreviated to LKR. The exchange rate at the time of publishing is $1 = 170 LKR / 1 = 200 LKR. Cash machines are in abundance in most towns and cities and we never had any issue finding one when travelling extensively around the country. Most banks will charge a small withdrawal fee even if your bank doesnt however banks often offer much better exchange rates than you would get exchanging cash. Sri Lanka primarily is a very cheap and affordable country where your money will go far and wide. It is an ideal country for backpacking and budget travel with accommodation, public transport and food costing very little and is comparable with South East Asia for budget. However, some of the entrance fees for the big tourist attractions such as Sigiriya are comparatively expensive and can easily use up a full days budget which as a backpacker can be a little frustrating, however on balance the low cost of backpacking Sri Lanka in general makes up for this. An average day might set you back between $25- $35 for a couple, for example: * Bed in a dorm $5 / cheap double room $10 * Meal in a local cheap restaurant $2 / meal in a mid range restaurant $5 * 8 hour train from Ella to Kandy 3rd class $2.50 / first class $5.00 * Sigiriya entrance price: $30 Best times to visit when backpacking Sri Lanka Like most countries in Asia and the sub continent Sri Lanka is affected by wet and dry seasons. However unlike places like Thailand that have a very defined line between the two seasons that covers the entire country, Sri Lankas weather is rather more complex for such a small country as it is effected by two different monsoon seasons as well as having very diverse landscapes making planning your backpacking Sri Lanka adventure even more important. The South-Western monsoon season is between May and September with the dry season being from December to March. The North-Eastern monsoon season is between October and January and the dry season here is May to September. From October to November is is also common for rain to occur across the entire island. December to Mid April is considered the best time to travel and is also the peak season. The coast around Galle can be incredibly hot and humid where as the central highlands are often much milder and a great place to escape the heat for both visitors and locals alike! We travelled through February and experienced great weather, on the coast is was very hot and sunny and in the central part of the country is was mild, warm and sunny too with a touch of cloud on a couple of days only. Food in Sri Lanka The food in Sri Lanka has to be some of our favourite from our travels with it resembling South Indian cuisine but with its own unique flavours and styles. Eating out locally in small shacks, restaurants and street food stalls we ate for almost nothing and never got ill. As vegetarians too we also ran into no real difficulties and were able to try and wide selection of local dishes. Some of our favourite foods we tried here were the classic street food stable of Kottu Roti. Our go to snack whilst travelling on the amazing trains of Dhal Balls. The incredible potato and dhal curries we became addicted to and of course Polos, or Green jackfruit curry, something similar to what we ate a lot of in the Padangs of Indonesia. Best places to visit when backpacking Sri Lanka * Colombo and Mt Lavinia: The capital is busy and bustling but a true experience of the real and uncensored Sri Lanka. Just down the tracks and on the outskirts of the city the sleepy backpacker hub of Mt Lavinia offers great beaches for its proximity to such a large city and is the perfect place to explore the capital region from. * Galle: The Dutch colonial fort surrounded by pristine waters is a great place to experience some of the unique history of Sri Lanka. The enclosed city is like stepping back in time with its charming crumbling colonial aesthetic and laid back but happening atmosphere. * Western Coastal region: Unawatuna/ Koggala/ Mirissa: The region onwards from Galle towards the bottom end of Sri Lanka is a beach lovers paradise. Long perfect white sandy beaches with clear aqua surf gently lapping against the shoreline is irresistible! Here you can see the famous stick fishermen, go dolphin watching, surfing or just take the opportunity to relax! * Udawalawe National Park and Yala National Park: Sri Lanka is home to some incredible wildlife and these national parks are the best place to spot them. You are almost certainly guaranteed to spot wild elephants on safari here as well as having the opportunity to see Leopards in these beautiful locations. * Ella and the tea plantation region: The central highlands of Sri Lanka offer up a completely different landscape to the other areas of the country. The amazing mountain of Adams Peak is a hikers dream and the tea lined hills of Ella and the surrounding villages offer a magical landscape the explore. * Ella to Kandy train: This 8 hour journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in Sri Lanka is one of the highlights of our trip to Sri Lanka. Hanging out of the doors as the old colonial era trains chug slowly through tea plantations and tiny villages is an unforgettable Sri Lankan experience! * Kandy: Another impressive and historic colonial city, Kandy is some to some beautiful architecture as well as the sacred temple of the tooth, said to be home to a piece of tooth belonging to Buddha himself! * Sigiriya: If there is one place to shell out on the expensive entrance fee then it is the magical citadel of Lion Rock in the central region of the country. This amazing and almost bizarre column of rock seems to appear from nowhere and was home to the one time king of Sri Lanka back in the 5th century. General tips for backpacking Sri Lanka * Dont rush it. Sri Lanka might be a small country with some amazing transport but dont expect to get anywhere fast. The infrastructure here is ageing and trains only cover certain sections of the country with rickety local buses covering the rest through winding roads! But these journeys are part of the unique charm of travelling around Sri Lanka, especially on the trains. Give yourself enough time, break long journeys up and enjoy the slow pace of travel when backpacking Sri Lanka. * Covering up in Sri Lanka isnt a big deal as long as you are modest and respectful. Wearing shorts and a vest around town isnt likely to bat an eyelid. When you visit temples you should be sure to cover your shoulders and bring something to cover your legs in your bag just in case. We were ok visiting Sigiriya in shorts and rented out sarongs to visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy without issue. * The people of Sri Lanka are friendly and welcoming and often up for a chat, especially on buses and trains. Sinhala, Tamil and English are all official languages of Sri Lanka and most people are conversational in English which makes communicating easy and backpacking Sri Lanka ideal for first timers. * Be sure to take in all the diversity that makes Sri Lanka amazing. The beaches along the western coast of the country might be an amazing magnet for most holiday makers heading to this incredible island, and rightly so, however there is much more to Sri Lanka. From the stunning light blue waves to the lush green tea plantations, the roaming elephants of the National Parks and the mind blowing history and culture, there is so much to see for such a small place! Have You Been Backpacking Sri Lanka, What Are Your Tips? Hey, Youve Got Your Travel Insurance Sorted Havent You? Travelling and especially backpacking is a wild adventure, but make sure you are covered just incase something goes wrong, which if youre living it up to the fullest its always a possibility! Check travel insurance prices with World Nomads here! Book Your Train, Bus Or Flight For Sri Lanka And Across Asia Here: Powered by 12Go Asia system Related Posts: The perfect two week Sri Lanka itinerary to explore the best of this beautiful country See More From This Country: See More From Our Backpacking Adventures: New luxury buses alleviate commuters daily ordeal Increase in the number of luxury buses this year has given some relief to Kathmandu Valley commuters who regularly face the ordeal of travelling in overcrowded microbuses. Old statute, new problems New legislation should be passed to address the plight of migrant workers at home Issues of concern to people who live in the west: property rights, water rights, endangered species, livestock grazing, energy production, wilderness and western agriculture. Plus a few items on western history, western literature and the sport of rodeo... Frank DuBois served as the NM Secretary of Agriculture from 1988 to 2003. DuBois is a former legislative assistant to a U.S. Senator, a Deputy Assistant Secretary of Interior, and is the founder of the DuBois Rodeo Scholarship. Election season is upon us. On 14 October, anywhere between 85% and 95% of all Luxembourgers are expected to head to the polls. It is no coincidence that voter turnout is so high in Luxembourgthe Grand Duchy is one of only 10 countries across the globe that enforces compulsory voting. Other countries on this list include Australia, Brazil, Singapore and Luxembourg's neighbour to the west, Belgium. These countries could all theoretically fine their citizens for not turning up to the polls on election day. However, most of them do not actually enforce their mandatory voting laws because prosecuting infractions often simply isn't worth the effort. This is also true for Luxembourg. The red areas show countries that enforce compulsory voting laws, while the pink areas highlight countries that don't enforce their compulsory voting laws. The blue areas show countries that have compulsory voting, but only for men. The countries that used to have compulsory voting laws are highlighted in yellow. / Public domain While non-voters in Luxembourg could theoretically face fines of up to 1,000 for staying away on election day, the last criminal prosecution for a compulsory voting infraction took place over 50 years ago. When 36,000 voters (14.6%) failed to cast their vote in the 2017 municipal elections, Alex Bodry of the Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP) asked a parliamentary question on how these infractions are handled and documented today. The answer revealed that non-voter data in Luxembourg isn't being systematically collected, let alone used to start proceedings against non-voters. It should to be pointed out that, while Luxembourg has compulsory voting laws, no one is actually required to cast a valid vote. Submitting a blank ballot, either in person or by mail, is perfectly legal. Evaluating blank (or creatively voided) ballots can actually be a very effective way of gauging voter dissatisfaction. Alex Bodry addressing Luxembourg's parliament, the Chambre des Deputes. The arguments in favour of compulsory voting are manifold. Belgium introduced its compulsory voting laws back in 1892 as a way to keep the general population interested in national politics. The Netherlands also once had mandatory voting laws, but they were abolished in 1970. Quite predictably, voter turnout diminished as a result. It is a sad fact that underprivileged and financially-vulnerable groups tend to abstain from voting more often than the middle class or wealthier individuals. This observation was not only made in the Netherlands after the abolition of compulsory voting, it also generally holds true for the rest of the world. In the 2016 presidential elections in the US, a mere 57.9% of all eligible voters actually headed to the polls. This means that a whopping 92.7 million people stayed home on election day. Only 27.2% of the overall electorate actually voted for the 45th president of the United States, compared to 28.5% for his democratic opponent Hillary Clinton. A study seems to suggest that non-voters in the US tend to lean slightly more Democratic than their voting compatriots, whichin an alternate universemight have given Clinton the edge over Trump in the 2016 elections. 8 November 2016 marked the culmination of one of the most polarising US elections in living memory, the effects of which still ripple out to this day. As the 2016 elections made abundantly clear, energising one's base rather than appealing to a broader electorate can pay off in a low voter turnout environment. This feat would be substantially harder to pull off in a country that recognises the popular vote and has universal suffrage since candidates would need to appeal to more centrist voters as well. AFP While some fringe parties have challenged Luxembourg's compulsory voting laws over the years, it remains popular with the overwhelming majority of the electorate. As you might have gathered from the title of this article, I am one of these voters. As a starry-eyed 18-year-old facing my first general election, I remember being asked by my high school civics class teacher whether I'd already made up my mind about whom I'd be voting for. I replied that I didn't yet feel qualified or informed enough to make that decision. My teacher kindly reminded me that voting isn't optional in Luxembourg (as if I'd have forgotten that!) and told me to get on with it and form an opinion before election day. I remember feeling slightly embarrassed about the lacklustre answer I gave that day. As insignificant as this short classroom exchange might seem, it made me very aware of the fact that heading to the polls is more than just an occasional nuisanceit is part of every citizen's civic duty. While I probably wouldn't repeat the vote I cast at the tender age of 18, I still credit compulsory voting for making me aware of the "political animal" inside of me. This year, it is my younger brother's turn to cast his first voteto me one of the most important steps towards truly becoming an adult. Voting means finding your voicewhatever you might have to say. If you're still undecided who to cast your vote for on 14 October, you might want to check out www.smartwielen.lu, a website that allows voters to find candidates and parties that share their opinions. Sarah Cames is a twentysomething freelance journalist with a keen interest in anything to do with politics, history and pop culture. Mountain Shadows in Wayanad is just the place for a dreamy vacation Sangam Sweets sealed for selling substandard items The Department of Food Technology and Quality Control (DFTQC) on Tuesday barred Sangam Sweets, a popular sweet shop in the Capital, from selling its products after the shop was found selling substandard sweets. Sweet and sour Import quotas have made sugar dearer just before the festivals Bachelor finalist Brooke Burton left fans reeling last night after dramatically walking out on Nick Cummins in the penultimate episode of the series. I came here to fall in love I need a guy that knows what he wants and can tell me thats me, she said. I need to go home. Im not going to stand in your way as much as I want to because my respect for you and how much I care for you outweighs the selfishness of me wanting you to be out here, Nick replied. Brooke has also told TV Week, Nick wasnt giving me the clarification I needed, either. I love having certainty in a relationship and I need to know that person wants to be with me. I understand the nature of the show but its my life as well. I would be the one in a relationship; its my feelings and emotions. Her departure, which undoubtedly puts her in contention to star in a Bachelorette series, leaves property valuer Sophie Tieman and radiographer Brittany Hockley in the running for tonights final. But media speculation is rife Cummins has already moved on from the shows winner. Earlier this week he headed to Papua New Guinea to trek the Kokoda trail, oddly out of media range. Erik Thomson has thanked loyal fans after 800 Words wrapped up last night. Travelling through South Australia he posted on Instagram, This is where I am at the moment, Arkaroola SA, and have happened upon a small pool of wi-fi so will quickly thank all our 800 Words audience in Australia for being such passionate and loyal viewersits been a blast and Im obviously a bit sad it had to come to an end but such is the nature of this business. Thanks to (South Pacific Pictures) and of course Channel 7 for giving us such a great run. It comes after he recently spoke out against the Seven / TVNZ show folding. 800 Words could have run for more seasons, he told TV Week. The plan was to jump ahead a year to see how things panned out, but thats not going to happen, unfortunately. Networks these days are interested in the shiny new ball, but not always in ways to keep that ball shiny. If by any chance you still remember Resurrection, FlashForward, or The Event then there is a good chance you will remember Manifest in two years time. Nobody else will. Somewhere in the Hollywood Upstairs School of Screenwriting an episode of Lost is on a loop and pages in Robert McKees Story have a few random paragraphs circled beside and empty software packaging of Final Draft. What probably once existed as a high-concept pitch has crash-landed into the first episode of Manifest, a new US drama skidding onto a runway near you. Nine is rushing this to screen before the axe falls in the US or word leaks out about what a stinker it is. Too many times networks have been burnt with titles that sink in the US before they have managed to get to air here, destined for the programming bins of summer or a multichannel, or the ultimate ignominy, both. What should have been a stock standard flight from Jamaica to New York turns briefly chaotic for Montego Air Flight 828 when turbulence hurls the passengers towards a near-death experience. But after it lands safely all appears well, until police and airport security reveal they have landed 5 years after their flight took off in 2013 (cue Law & Order dun dun). Amongst the fight Manifest is intelligence officer Ben Stone (Josh Dallas) and his sister Michaela (Melissa Roxburgh) an NYPD police officer. They both learn their mother has died. Also aboard is Bens young son Cal (Jack Messina) who was afflicted with Leukemia when he boarded the flight. But in the 5 interceding years there are new medical advancements. As it happens, medical researcher Saanvi Bahl (Parveen Kaur) was on the same flight and in her absence her theories have been put to good use saving hundreds of lives. Now she wants to help save Cal, who is technically too old for her hospitals medical trials. Are you keeping up? Amongst the other revelations, Michaelas boyfriend has since married her best friend (bastards!) and did we mention the eerie premonition power our survivors now have, in the form of voices-in-their-heads? 1975 is calling and it wants its story device back. How come the mid-air incident threw everybody 5 years into future with prophetic powers but it didnt cure the kid of his leukemia? I dunno, but nor do I really care. This takes everything too stupid-serious and is sorely in need of some humour or a good script doctor (see above). Im all for an imaginative high-concept series but not one with dialogue such as The universe just gave all of us a do-over. Although I did chuckle at another, We gave up the landline. The idea for this takes off jumbo-style, but there is way too much turbulence for any joy flight. Pass me the sick bag. Manifest airs 8:40pm Wednesday on Nine. Cookies op Tweakers Tweakers maakt gebruik van cookies Tweakers is onderdeel van DPG Media en maakt gebruik van cookies, JavaScript en vergelijkbare technologie om je onder andere een optimale gebruikerservaring te bieden. Functionele en analytische cookies die door Tweakers zelf geplaatst worden, worden gebruikt om de website goed te laten functioneren, bezoekersstatistieken bij te houden en a/b-testen uit te voeren. Ook kan Tweakers hiermee het gedrag van bezoekers vastleggen en analyseren. Cookies kunnen daarnaast worden gebruikt om op Tweakers advertenties te tonen die aansluiten bij je interesses. Daarbij kan gebruikgemaakt worden van bezoekersprofielen die door derden zijn opgesteld. Ook kunnen derden je internetgedrag volgen, zoals bijvoorbeeld het geval is bij embedded videos van YouTube. Tot slot kunnen cookies worden gebruikt om op sites van derden relevante advertenties te tonen. Content van derde partijen, zoals embedded videos van YouTube, wordt met een trackingvrij abonnement standaard uitgeschakeld. Indien je deze content wilt zien, kun je hier expliciet toestemming voor geven. Wil je meer informatie over cookies en hoe ze worden gebruikt? Bekijk dan ons cookiebeleid. Accepteer cookies ... Om deze pagina op Tweakers te kunnen bekijken, moet je cookies accepteren. Cookies accepteren Heb je al een account? Dan kun je hier inloggen! Those who saw Leonardo DiCaprio in the 2000 movie The Beach will no doubt recall the spectacular setting for that Film, Maya Bay in Thailand. The film was based on the 1996 novel of the same name by author Alex Garland. Maya Bay is, indeed, a beautiful setting with its golden sands, crystal clear blue water and the cliffs surrounding the bay on Ko Phi Phi Leh Island in Thailand. The movie has attracted millions of tourists to the island and the bay itself. Now Thailand is making an effort to let the bay recover from the environmental damage caused by up to 5,000 visitors a day and 200 boats visiting the bay. Environmental damage in Maya Bay Back in June this year, Thai authorities temporarily closed the beach for four months in the hope that the environment could recover. It was due to reopen to the public this month. However, due to the amount of damage caused by the many visitors to the bay, they have decided to extend that closure indefinitely. Authorities estimate that more than 80 percent of the coral surrounding Maya Bay has been completely destroyed due to the litter left behind by visitors, the boats taking them to the bay and the sun cream used by sunbathers in Maya Bay. Maya Bay on Phi Phi Islands will continue to close indefinitely to allow for more ecological recovery time. #Phuket #Thailand https://t.co/PvRnFLFS47 pic.twitter.com/T8XEqcUSTz Phuket.Net (@Phuket_Net) October 3, 2018 Songtam Suksawang is the director of the national parks department in Thailand. The New York Post quotes him as saying they have evaluated the environment surrounding the beach each month and discovered that the up to 5,000 people visiting it daily has seriously destroyed it. According to Suksawang, they have a hard job on their hands to remedy the damage caused and rehabilitate the beach, as it has been completely destroyed along with the plants covering it. Speaking of the four-month closure, he said it was impossible to recover the beach in that allotted time. Thai authorities were reluctant to close the beach It turns out that the popularity of Maya Bay has brought approximately 400 million baht (9.5m) to the country in visitor revenue each year. This led the Thai authorities to be reluctant to close it completely. Things have now changed after the department of national parks published a royal gazette on 1 October to officially announce restrictions on visitors to the beach will stay in place until Maya Bays ecosystem can fully recover to its normal standards. Thailand's Maya Bay, made popular by the film "The Beach," was due to reopen this month, but now will remain closed indefinitely to give the marine ecosystem more time to recover https://t.co/Aq82aO03J7 CNN (@CNN) October 2, 2018 As reported by The Guardian, this is good news for local environmental campaigners who had been pushing for a longer closure than the four-month period. Reportedly it will take years for the coral reef to recover as it only grows around half a centimetre each year. Worapoj Lomlim, head of the parks agency in Thailand, said they had already rehabilitated several coral reefs in Maya Bay after planting over 1,000 corals and they will now expand that project even further. Unidentified persons set ablaze Kantipur Publications newspapers Unidentified persons set fire to Kantipur Publications daily newspapersKantipur Daily and The Kathmandu Postthat were brought to Attariya from Nepalgunj for distribution on Wednesday. Protesters confront police officers during a march in Ardoyne in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in July 2016. Photo: Getty The chairman of the Irish parliaments Brexit committee said that there will be a return to violence in Northern Ireland within a week if a hard border is erected. The threat is quite evident that if you have a hard border, and you have the infrastructure of a hard border, therell be a return to violence within a week, senator Neale Richmond told Yahoo Finance UK in a lengthy interview. The remarks, which came in response to questions about the European Unions understanding of what is at stake in a post-Brexit Northern Ireland, are his strongest on the subject yet. The 28-nation bloc, he said, is actually nearly stronger than the Irish government on this. They take the threat at face value. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), Richmond reiterated, stated on record that the minute you put up so much as a pole or a CCTV camera or a crossing gate, itll be targeted. Richmond serves as the ruling Fine Gael partys spokesperson on European affairs in the Irish senate, and chairs the special committee on the UKs exit from the EU. He called suggestions that neither side will enforce a hard border lazy and brazenly cavalier. Its like so many elements of the tricky parts of Brexityou cant just ignore it, he said. READ MORE: Why the Northern Irish border is a huge problem for Brexit Mirroring comments made by chancellor Philip Hammond on Monday, Richmond said that the UK will have to enforce a hard border in the event of a no-deal Brexit. Ultimately under WTO rules, you have to have customs checks. If it doesnt enforce a border, Richmond said, the UK will then not just have reneged and walked out on a 45-year-old agreement with the largest economic bloc in the world, but theyll also be in breach of WTO rules, and theyll be an absolute economically rogue state. Keeping the border open, however, is Irelands number one priority, he noted. Peace on this island trumps any economic concerns. People thought we were being cynical in using the Irish border, and its really offensive when they say that. Its generally people in mainland UK who do not appreciate how horrible the Troubles were. Story continues It was death after death and Northern Ireland was a horrible place. In the 30 years before the 1998 signing of the Good Friday Agreement, clashes during the Troubles took the lives of more than 3,600 people. Thousands of British troops were deployed to Northern Ireland to try and curb the violence. The Good Friday Agreement provided the avenue for the phasing out of the British military checkpoints that had been introduced during the height of the Troubles. In September, the EUs chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier vowed to improve the blocs plan to prevent a hard border in Ireland and publicly declared that his team were working on new proposals designed to de-dramatise an issue that risks causing a no-deal Brexit. Dont forget to check out Yahoo Finance UK for more from our interview with Senator Richmond. chemistry nobel george smith US.JPG Courtesy of Marjorie Sable/Handout via REUTERS The Nobel Prize in chemistry went to three scientists who used directed evolution to make new proteins that are in biofuels and cancer drugs. The winners include Americans Frances Arnold and George Smith, as well as Sir Gregory Winter from the UK. Arnold is the fifth woman to win a chemistry Nobel since 1901. Two Americans and a Briton won the 2018 Nobel Prize for Chemistry on Wednesday for harnessing the power of evolution to produce novel proteins used in everything from environmentally-friendly detergents and biofuels to cancer drugs. Scientists Frances Arnold, George Smith, and Sir Gregory Winter are sharing the prize for their research using directed evolution to produce enzymes for new chemicals and pharmaceuticals. The fruits of this work include the world's top-selling prescription medicine -- the antibody injection Humira sold by AbbVie for treating rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. "This year's Nobel Laureates in Chemistry have been inspired by the power of evolution and used the same principles genetic change and selection to develop proteins that solve mankind's chemical problems," the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said in a statement on awarding the 9 million Swedish crown ($1 million) prize. Tweet Embed: //twitter.com/mims/statuses/1047422876364808192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw BREAKING NEWS: The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has decided to award the #NobelPrize in Chemistry 2018 with one half to Frances H. Arnold and the other half jointly to George P. Smith and Sir Gregory P. Winter. pic.twitter.com/lLGivVLttB Arnold, an American chemical engineer and biochemist at Caltech, will receive half of the $1 million, while Smith from the University of Missouri and Sir Gregory Winter from Cambridge will share the other half. Arnold is the fifth woman to win the prize, which has been awarded to 181 people since 1901. Story continues "Im bouncing off the walls, but Im trying to pretend to sound calm and collected," she told NobelPrize.org when reached by phone early Wednesday. Arnold said her background as a mechanical engineer gave her the ability to tackle protein engineering in a totally different way from what others were trying. "The way most people were going about protein engineering was doomed to failure," she said. Instead, she tried a more "obvious" route: copying "nature's design process," that is, evolution. "All this tremendous beauty and complexity of the biological world all comes about through this one simple, beautiful design algorithm," she said. "And what I do is use that algorithm to build new biological things." The Nobel committee is set to award this year's peace prize on Friday. chemistry nobel frances arnold Heikki Saukkomaa/Lehtikuva via AP See Also: Laura Huhtasaari is a far-right politician: Reuters Three 15-year-old pupils at a school in Finland have received a barrage of online abuse and at least one threat of violence after a far-right MP attacked their pro-refugee project and their school. Laura Huhtasaari, an MP for the anti-immigration Finns Party, tweeted a photograph of a poster made by the teenagers to thousands of her followers on Sunday. The poster, titled Finland or Death?, appears to tackle the theme of immigration and is sympathetic to refugees arriving in Finland. Photos of Sauli Niinisto, the countrys president, and Pekka Haavisto, a Green League MP, are placed under the Finland section. Images of Ms Huhtasaari and the Finns Party leader, Jussi Halla-aho, appear under the word Death. A photograph of a boat filled with refugees is placed in the centre of the poster. The pupils, who made the poster, were exposed to online abuse (Twitter) Ms Huhtasaari has previously demanded that asylum seekers be denied entry to Finland by all means necessary and has also said that a fear of Islam can be explained by Muslim backwardness, according to the Finnish Broadcasting Company. She accused the school of encouraging hate speech in her tweet and attached a photograph of the poster which included the names of the students who had made it. The school told the Finnish Broadcasting Company it had since received emails and text messages accusing the principal of brainwashing students and of spreading Marxism and Jihadism. I must admit it was an unpleasant surprise, the principal told the Finnish broadcaster. Students names should not be published without permission. He added that the poster had been taken out of context. The students were told to create a poster that expressed a position on an issue and did so. Ms Huhtasaaris tweet has prompted extensive debate, with some calling for the teacher who assigned the task to be sacked. Others criticised the politician for publishing the schools name and the identity of the students involved. We are talking about work that was publicly displayed in the school lobby. Naturally the teacher and principal are responsible for what kind of work ends up on the school walls, the MP told told the broadcaster. Story continues The responsibility lies with the teacher and the principal, not the students. She added that the photo had been sent to her by another student at the school. The teachers role is not to instigate fear about a certain democratic party or politician, the MP added. Other politicians have defended the school, which is in the town of Tempure in southern Finland. Tempures mayor, Johanna Loukaskorpi, said politicians should not interfere with the curriculum. I think its most unfortunate that an MP would highlight an individual school and students in a tweet to promote her political ideology, she said. I personally think that the poster was quite effective in that it made an impact and is thought-provoking. The school can now discuss how much of an impact a single poster can have or how an image can spread through social media to an incredible extent. VILNIUS (Reuters) - A ferry heading to Lithuania from Germany was able to continue its journey on Tuesday, hours after it lost power following an engine room incident, Lithuania's Defence Ministry said. The Lithuanian-flagged Regina Seaways, carrying 335 people, restored power to its main engine four hours after it issued a distress call due to a suspected fire in its engine room, the ministry said. No one was reported injured and the ferry was expected to dock in the port of Klaipeda by 2100 GMT, a spokesman for Danish ferry company DFDS said. "There was vibration and there was smoke, but no fire was noticed," the spokesman said, contradicting reports from the Lithuanian military of a fire on board. Lithuania's Defence Ministry said the fire had been extinguished and that four Lithuanian military ships had been sent towards the ferry to accompany it to the home port. (Reporting by Andrius Sytas; Writing by Johan Ahlander; Editing by Robin Pomeroy) FILE PHOTO: Finland's Finance Minister Alexander Stubb waves as he arrives at a European Union finance ministers meeting in Brussels, Belgium, December 8, 2015. REUTERS/Francois Lenoir/File Photo Thomson Reuters STRASBOURG (Reuters) - Former Finnish prime minister Alexander Stubb declared his bid on Tuesday to succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as EU chief executive, becoming the second candidate to lead the center-right in European Parliament elections in May. Stubb wrote in a letter to fellow members of the European People's Party (EPP) that he was a "declared pro-European" who had decided to run to defend European values and to push Europe to fill a power vacuum left by the "voluntary marginalization" of the United States and Britain from world politics. "It is time to rally around our cause for a strong Europe. This means mitigating unnecessary divisions between East and West, North and South. We must be better at highlighting what unites us instead of what differentiates us," he wrote. Stubb, 50, has been prime minister, finance minister and foreign minister of Finland and is currently a vice president at the European Investment Bank. The EPP, the largest trans-national group in the EU legislature, will choose its election leader at a meeting in Helsinki on Nov 7-8. Stubb will challenge Germany's Manfred Weber, head of the EPP group, and possibly other conservatives. The only other declared candidate is Slovak Socialist Maros Sefcovic, who is Juncker's vice president for energy. The European Parliament has demanded that the European Commission president should be one of the parties' lead candidates, as happened for Juncker in 2014. Polls show that the EPP is likely to remain the biggest group in the chamber. However, French President Emmanuel Macron and other leaders, who would actually nominate Juncker's successor, oppose the automatic linkage between the EU election and the Commission job. In this case, the leaders could select someone to head the Commission who is not one of the parties' picks, although that person would still need to be approved by the parliament. Story continues With a host of other EU posts to be filled in the coming year, notably that of European Central Bank President Mario Draghi, government leaders are engaged in a delicate game of strategy over which to seek for compatriots or political allies. The EU parliament vote, held against a backdrop of Brexit and increasing nationalist complaints against Brussels in other countries, will determine the make-up of an important element in making laws applied across the continent. (Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop; Editing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg) See Also: BISSAU (Reuters) - Around 60 migrants are missing and believed drowned after their boat was seen sinking off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, a coast guard commander said on Wednesday. The sea passage from West Africa to Spain's Canary Islands was once a major route for migrants seeking to reach Europe, but attempts have become scarcer since Spain stepped up patrols in the mid-2000s. Guinean coast guards saw the canoe in difficulty off-shore on Monday, but were not able to deploy a boat in response, Victor Siga told Reuters. He said wreckage has since been found, but no bodies have been recovered. Although home to some of the continent's fastest growing economies, West Africa is struggling to generate enough jobs for its mushrooming young population. As a result, migrants continue to tackle treacherous routes to get to Europe. A number of migrant boats trying to reach the Canary Islands have been apprehended off the coast off Gambia this year, Gambian immigration authorities said last week. (Reporting by Alberto Dabo; Writing by Alessandra Prentice; Editing by Aaron Ross and Toby Chopra) Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney arrives to address during the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly at U.N. headquarters in New York, U.S., September 28, 2018. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz WARSAW (Reuters) - Ireland does not want a notional border to emerge in the Irish Sea that would divide Northern Ireland from the rest of the United Kingdom, Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said on Wednesday. Brexit negotiators are seeking to resolve a standoff over how to prevent the return of border checks between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland by looking at how regulatory checks on some goods between the two islands could be used as part of a solution to move talks forward. Dublin is trying to convince pro-British politicians in Northern Ireland that this would not amount to a constitutional challenge to the British province's status, prompting Coveney's remarks at a news conference during a visit to Warsaw. "We don't want to see any border on the Irish Sea but the commitment to an Irish backstop of last December is very clear," Coveney said, referring to the "insurance policy" backstop arrangement all sides agreed to in principle over how to retain an open border on the island of Ireland after Brexit. "We are not trying to create new barriers to trade between Northern Ireland and the (rest of the) United Kingdom. We believe it is possible to find the balance and the compromise to get this done... Ireland is happy to show some flexibility." The small Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) that props up Britain's minority Conservative government strongly resists any suggestion that there may need to be regulatory divergence between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK after Brexit. DUP leader Arlene Foster described it earlier on Wednesday as a "blood red" line, in a ratcheting-up of the party's rhetoric. (Reporting by Alicja Ptak, writing by Padraic Halpin in Dublin; Editing by Gareth Jones) LUSAKA (Reuters) - Kansai Plascon, owned by Tokyo-listed Kansai Paint Co Ltd, has launched the world's first mosquito repellant paint in Zambia to help it reach a target to eliminate malaria by 2021, the company and a Japanese government official said. Malaria, spread by mosquitoes, is a treatable disease if caught early, but current anti-malarial drugs are failing in many areas as people develop resistance to them. Zambia aims to eradicate malaria, the southern African country's biggest killer, within three years after deaths from the disease halved last year from 2014, the government said in June. Hanai Junichi, Japan International Cooperation Agency's (JICA) Zambia resident representative said his agency was carrying out the initiative in partnership with Kansai. "A study done in the last two years in 400 households with Zambia's ministry of health proved that the paint is very effective and is not harmful to human beings," Junichi told Reuters. While mosquito nets, prophylactics and insecticide spraying are still in use, the disease continues to account for more than one million deaths on the African continent each year, the company said. The paint technology disrupts the mosquito's nervous system on contact, reducing its ability to remain on walls where the paint has been applied. The insect typically alights on vertical structures, which is why inside walls have been a key focus of anti-malarial efforts, such as the spraying of DDTs on them. "The knock-down effect lasts for up to two years, offering lasting protection from malaria infection and other mosquito-borne diseases," Kansai said. The world has made huge strides against malaria since 2000, with death rates plunging by 60 percent and at least six million lives saved globally, WHO says. But efforts to end one of the world's deadliest diseases - which kills about 430,000 people a year, mostly children in sub-Saharan Africa - are under threat as mosquitoes become increasingly resistant to measures such as bed nets and drugs. Story continues (Reporting by Chris Mfula; Editing by Ed Stoddard and Emelia Sithole-Matarise) See Also: Participants take their place at the opening of the Strategic Dialogue of the Western Balkans meeting at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Cologny near Geneva, Switzerland, October 2, 2018. REUTERS/Denis Balibouse GENEVA (Reuters) - Kosovo's president sees only a small chance of a border deal with Serbia emerging soon but it is an opportunity that must be pursued otherwise another decade could slip by, he said after Western Balkan talks in Geneva on Tuesday. An agreement on a lasting peace between the two countries, including the demarcation of 400 km (250 miles) of border, would open the way to prosperity and closer ties to the European Union, as well as full international recognition for Kosovo, President Hashim Thaci said. "Although the chances are very slim there's still a good momentum, a good window of opportunity to reach a historic agreement between our two states," he told reporters. "I understand there are critics but my reply is that if we lose this momentum now we risk entering another decade of unclear perspective, of frozen conflict and status quo." The fate of ethnic Serb villages in northern Kosovo is one of the main issues of disagreement. Kosovo is a former province of Serbia which declared independence after Serbian forces were driven out by NATO bombing in a war in 1999. Other leaders of the region also supported the effort to get a deal, he said, adding that there was no reason to fear that it would create a domino effect or represent a "Pandora's Box". He was speaking at the World Economic Forum in Geneva, after a meeting that included the prime ministers of Serbia, Croatia and Albania, as well as Turkey's foreign minister and Germany's defence minister. Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic said the regional leaders, who agreed to hold a summit in 2019, had gathered mainly to talk about how to foster future economic growth. She said it was not in Serbia's interest to rock the boat. "However politically, economically, socially stable and strong we are, any regional instability or even perception of instability will actually negatively impact us," she said. Story continues "Serbia has been through a very difficult four years of fiscal consolidation measures. We are now leaving this tunnel, we are seeing the light. She declined to discuss the dialogue with Kosovo. Asked if Serbia would recognise Kosovo, Brnabic said: "Easy question, easy answer: Yes, I think this is the year we will recognise Kosovo for what it is the autonomous province of the Republic of Serbia. Its not an open question, absolutely not." (Reporting by Tom Miles; Editing by Richard Balmforth) PARIS (Reuters) - French intelligence concluded that Iran's intelligence ministry, which is controlled by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, ordered a foiled attack on an exiled Iranian opposition group's rally near Paris in June, a French diplomatic source said. "Behind all this was a long, meticulous and detailed investigation by our (intelligence) services that enabled us to reach the conclusion, without any doubt, that responsibility fell on the intelligence ministry," the source said. The source added that deputy minister and director general of intelligence Saeid Hashemi Moghadam had ordered the attack. (Reporting by John Irish; editing by Richard Lough) Wife of former Malaysian PM Najib Razak arrested by anti-graft agency Malaysias anti-graft agency arrested former first lady Rosmah Mansor on Wednesday and she will be charged with money laundering, her lawyer told Reuters. FILE PHOTO: Belchatow Power Station, Europe's largest coal-fired power plant operated by PGE Group, is pictured near Belchatow, September 12, 2018. REUTERS/Kacper Pempel/File Photo Thomson Reuters By Nina Chestney LONDON (Reuters) - Half of Poland's electricity generation will come from coal by 2040 though coal production should remain at current levels as energy demand is expected to increase, a senior government official said on Tuesday. Poland and Germany are jointly responsible for over half of the EU's carbon dioxide emissions from coal. Currently, around 80 percent of Poland's power production is provided by coal-fired plant generation. It aims to cut that to half by 2040, with renewables and nuclear providing much of the rest and gas-fired generation providing back-up. Earlier this year, Poland said it planned to lower the share of coal in its energy production to 60 percent in 2030 and around 50 percent in 2050. "We would like to keep the level of hard coal production at the level it is today. Some mines will be decommissioned but demand for energy will grow. All transition in the sector will be in cooperation with the European Commission," Piotr Naimski, who is responsible for strategic energy infrastructure, told Reuters at the Bloomberg NEF future of energy summit. Under a long-term plan to restructure the coal industry, some of the oldest and most polluting coal-fired power units could be decommissioned and replaced with bigger, cleaner and more efficient units, he said. Poland is considering whether to open new fields of lignite - an intermediate between bituminous coal and peat - alongside new coal-fired power units which would take around 10 years or build a nuclear plant which would cost and take around the same. "We are considering which way to go. Existing lignite fields should last until the early 2030s," Naimski said. 'CLEANER' OPTIONS Poland will host this year's U.N. climate talks in the mining city of Katowice, where the implementation of a global pact to keep global warming in check will be worked out. The pact, called the Paris Agreement, was agreed in 2015 and seeks to wean the world economy off fossil fuels in the second half of the century. U.S. President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the pact last year, saying it favored other countries. Story continues Research by Climate Analytics earlier this year said the European Union as a whole must shelve plans for additional coal capacity and shut down plants completely by 2030 to keep its carbon emissions in check. But Poland also has plans for renewable energy. It wants to have 8 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind installed in the long-term. It already has 6 GW of onshore wind. At the same time, it is trying to reduce its reliance on Russian gas through the Baltic Pipe Project - a 10 billion cubic meter per year pipeline which will supply natural gas from Norway to the Danish and Polish markets. Construction of the pipeline is due to start in 2020 and gas supply should start in 2022 when Poland's gas contracts with Russia's Gazprom are scheduled to end. Poland also plans to expand its liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal by 2021 and expand its transmission grid. "We will get better security of supply and diversification of gas sources and routes. We get 100 percent of our gas from Russia now so we are looking for LNG and gas from the Norwegian shelf," Naimski said. (Reporting by Nina Chestney; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise) See Also: MOSCOW (AP) Russia has completed the delivery of S-300 air defense systems to Syria, the Russian defense minister said Tuesday. Sergei Shoigu said in televised remarks that Russia has delivered four S-300 launchers along with radars and support vehicles. Speaking during a Security Council meeting chaired by President Vladimir Putin, Shoigu said it will take three months to train Syrian personnel to operate the system. Russia announced the S-300 delivery to Syria after the Sept. 17 downing of a Russian reconnaissance plane by Syrian forces responding to an Israeli air strike, a friendly fire incident that stoked regional tensions. Russia is a key ally of Syrian President Bashar Assad, and its intervention in the civil war, beginning in 2015, turned the tide in his favor. Shoigu said the integration of Russian and Syrian air defense assets into a single automated system will be completed by Oct. 20. He added that the Russian military has also significantly strengthened its electronic warfare systems in Syria. "We now control a close zone of up to 50 kilometers (30 miles) and the far zone of 200 kilometers (124 miles) from where attacks on the Syrian territory were launched," Shoigu said. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said she could not confirm that Russia had delivered the system to Syria but said it would be a "concern" if it had. "I hope that they did not," Nauert told reporters in Washington when asked about the Russian announcement. "That would be sort of a serious escalation." The Russian plane's downing threatened the close security ties between Russia and Israel. Earlier in the war, Russia had suspended the delivery of S-300s, which Israel feared Syria could use against it. Moscow has tried to maintain good relations with Iran, which is also allied with the Syrian government, and Israel, which is wary of Iran's growing influence in Syria. The Israeli military blamed Syria for the Russian plane's downing, saying that its own fighter jets were targeting a Syrian military facility involved in providing weapons to Hezbollah. The Israeli military said it warned Russia of the coming raid in line with de-confliction agreements. But the Russian Defense Ministry said the Israeli warning came less than a minute before the strike and said one of Israeli F-16 fighter jets was flying close to the much larger Russian plane, resulting in the Syrian missile homing in on the bigger target. FILE PHOTO: Sweden's Moderate Party leader Ulf Kristersson during the election campaign in Stockholm FILE PHOTO: Sweden's Moderate Party leader Ulf Kristersson during the election campaign in Stockholm, Sweden September 8, 2018. REUTERS/Ints Kalnins//File Photo By Simon Johnson and Johan Sennero STOCKHOLM (Reuters) - Sweden's parliamentary speaker on Tuesday gave a centre-right bloc of parties two weeks to form a government, granting its leader a broad mandate that he may struggle to fulfil following inconclusive national elections. The opposition four-party Alliance won 143 seats in the 349-seat legislative chamber in the Sept. 9 ballot, one fewer than the centre-left bloc headed by the Social Democrats. Both blocs face a daunting task to form a government, having ruled out cooperating with the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats, which hold the balance of power with 62 seats, and also considered unlikely to team up with each other. "The parties have to rethink their positions in order for a government to be formed," Speaker Andreas Norlen said. "I am the speaker, not a magician." Norlen said Alliance leader Ulf Kristersson, whose Moderates are the biggest party in the bloc, had on balance a stronger case to be given the mandate than caretaker Prime Minister and Social Democrat leader Stefan Lofven. Kristersson did not rule out cooperating with Lofven. "I will talk to the Alliance and the Social Democrats. That is where my focus will be. I will do all I can to build an Alliance government," Kristersson told reporters. Lofven said it was logical for Kristersson to get the first shot at forming a government, but repeated that he would not back the Alliance in government. Kristersson had two weeks to report on whether he had been successful and was not limited to forming a government with just his Alliance allies, Norlen earlier told reporters after meeting all party leaders during the day. In Sweden, a prime minister can assume office as long as a majority in parliament does not vote against him or her. The Sweden Democrats have said they will vote against any government that does not give them influence over policy while Lofven has ruled out supporting an Alliance government. Story continues Should Kristersson fail to form a government, the speaker will almost certainly ask Lofven to try. The Social Democrats, who have dominated Swedish politics for the last 100 years, hope to prise the Centre and the Liberal parties out of the Alliance and get their support. Swedish election scenarios graphic: https://tmsnrt.rs/2p45tJh (Additional reporting by Daniel Dickson; editing by Niklas Pollard and John Stonestreet) Donald Trump has said it is "a scary time for young men in America" because they may be presumed guilty if accused of sexual assault. The US president was speaking in response to the accusations against Brett Kavanaugh, his nominee for the Supreme Court. A woman has accused him of sexually assaulting her when they were at school in 1982. Christine Blasey Ford told her story at a dramatic senate judiciary committee hearing last week, with Justice Kavanaugh calling the claims a "national disgrace" as millions watched live on TV. Mr Trump told reporters at the White House: "I say that it's a very scary time for young men in America when you can be guilty of something that you may not be guilty of." He added: "My whole life, I've heard you're innocent until proven guilty. But now, you're guilty until proven innocent. That is a very, very difficult standard." The president ordered an FBI investigation into the claims after committee member Jeff Flake requested one, and it has just a few days left to complete its work and report back. :: Brett Kavanaugh 'involved in bar brawl after UB40 gig' Agents have already interviewed Justice Kavanaugh's friend, Mark Judge, according to his lawyer. Mr Judge was an alleged witness to the alleged sexual assault. Deborah Ramirez, who said Mr Kavanaugh exposed himself to her at a party, is also understood to have now been interviewed. The US president said he believed his Supreme Court nominee would eventually be "positively voted on". "What's happening here has much more to do than even the appointment of a Supreme Court justice. It really does," said Mr Trump. "You could be somebody that was perfect your entire life, and somebody could accuse you of something. It doesn't necessarily have to be a woman." The appointment of Brett Kavanaugh, a conservative, is significant because he would have a job for life on America's highest court, potentially tipping the balance on controversial issues such as abortion law and gun control. By Kirstin Ridley LONDON (Reuters) - The UK Serious Fraud Office (SFO) said on Tuesday it would not appeal a landmark judgement that allows ENRC, a mining company it is investigating over allegations of fraud, bribery and corruption, to keep documents out of the hands of authorities. In a ruling welcomed by anxious corporate legal departments, ENRC last month won a London appeal in a dispute about the scope of legal professional privilege, which ensures the advice lawyers give clients remains confidential. London's Court of Appeal partially overturned a court decision that had dismayed companies and lawyers because of fears that internal investigations into allegations of wrongdoing could unwittingly create a document trail that could be handed to prosecutors in future legal proceedings. The SFO said at the time that the facts of the case were complex and that it was exploring whether to seek a further appeal at the Supreme Court. But on Tuesday, new SFO director Lisa Osofsky decided to drop the case. "The director has decided not to seek to appeal the judgement...," the SFO said in a statement. The agency noted, however, that it would continue to assess the merits of all privilege claims and "remains prepared to challenge those it considers to be ill-founded". Lawyers argue that legal professional privilege is a fundamental right and an important check on the power of the state. "This is a welcome recognition from the SFO that the Court of Appeal's decision is correct in law and that the approach they were advocating for earlier in the case was misguided," said Judith Seddon, a partner at law firm Ropes & Gray. Michael Potts, a lawyer at Byrne and Partners, said the SFO had correctly concluded that any application to appeal further was bound to fail because the original court judgement had been "flawed". The SFO had fought the ENRC over access to documents such as notes of interviews with employees and former staff conducted by Dechert, the miner's former law firm, and documents produced during a "books and records" review by forensic accountants. Story continues The SFO's ENRC investigation, which began in 2013, is focussed on the miner's acquisition of mineral assets in Kazakhstan and Africa. The company has denied any wrongdoing. ENRC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The miner was taken private by its three founders and the Kazakh government in 2013 following a series of boardroom battles, six years after listing on the London Stock Exchange. It has been renamed ERG (Eurasian Resources Group), is registered in Luxembourg and has ferrochrome, aluminium, iron ore and energy operations in Kazakhstan, copper and cobalt assets in Africa and iron ore mines in Brazil. (Reporting by Kirstin Ridley; Editing by Silvia Aloisi, Keith Weir and Adrian Croft) FILE PHOTO - Ukraine's Interior Minister Arsen Avakov makes comments for Reuters about the decision made by Interpol to put ousted president Viktor Yanukovich on the international wanted list, in Kiev January 13, 2015. REUTERS/Valentyn Ogirenko KIEV (Reuters) - Ukraine's interior minister said on Tuesday a suspect in the Skripal poisoning case, working for Russian military intelligence, had been identified in Ukraine as a man who helped the former Ukrainian president flee to Russia in 2014. It was not immediately clear whether minister Arsen Avakov was citing information from Ukrainian intelligence or quoting the accounts of journalists. He released a statement following a meeting with a British minister. His spokesman declined to comment further. A lawyer for former President Viktor Yanukovich, who escaped to Russia in February 2014 during a wave of street protests, has previously denied that the Skripal suspect had helped Yanukovich. Former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were found slumped on a public bench in the English city of Salisbury in March. Britain says they were poisoned with a nerve agent administered by Russian intelligence officers. The Skripals survived, but a woman who lived in the area, unconnected with them, later died from what British police say was contact with the poison used, which her partner had found in a discarded perfume bottle. Russia denies any involvement in the affair, which has deepened its international isolation. Moscow says two Russian men suspected by British authorities, captured on surveillance footage near the scene of the poisoning, were innocent tourists visiting Salisbury twice during a weekend trip to Britain. London says that explanation is so far-fetched as to all but prove Russia's involvement. "Interior Minister Arsen Avakov noted that one of the participants in the attack in the Salisbury, an officer of the GRU of the Russian Federation, had been recognised in Ukraine as a person who had been involved in transporting ex-president Yanukovich from Ukraine," the minister's statement said. Avakov did not identify which of the two Skripal suspects had helped Yanukovich escape. (Reporting by Natalia Zinets; writing by Matthias Williams; editing by Andrew Roche) Tell us more You are seeing these quotes based on previous browsing related to sectors such as Union Jack Oil executive director Joseph O'Farrell purchased 35.29m ordinary shares as part of the London-listed firm's placing on Wednesday. O'Farrell, a former director at both OilQuest and Nighthawk at the time of their AIM floatations, acquired the shares at an average cost of 0.85p, for a total value of 300,000. Earlier in the day, Union Jack agreed to acquire a 16.667% stake in the West Newton gas discovery and, in order to support the transaction, revealed it would be raising 2.25m of new capital. The firm agreed to a transaction with Rathlin Energy, a subsidiary of Canadian outfit Connaught Oil and Gas, via a farm-out that commits Union Jack to cover 25% of the cost of an appraisal well at the Yorkshire asset. Non-executive director Raymond Godson also picked up some shares on Wednesday, upping his stake by 11.76m at a cost of 0.85p each, for a total value of 100,000. As of 1630 BST, Union Jack shares had picked up 0.57% to 0.09p. Top Director Buys Union Jack Oil (UJO) Director name: OAFarrell,Joseph Amount purchased: 35,294,116 @ 0.85p Value: 300,000.00 Union Jack Oil (UJO) Director name: Godson,Raymond G Amount purchased: 11,764,705 @ 0.85p Value: 100,000.00 Fidelity Japan Trust (FJV) Director name: Graham ,David Amount purchased: 18,000 @ 167.90p Value: 30,222.00 Low & Bonar (LWB) Director name: Bertram,Peter Amount purchased: 75,150 @ 39.92p Value: 29,999.88 Infrastrata (INFA) Director name: Wood,John Amount purchased: 1,736,293 @ 0.58p Value: 10,070.50 British Empire Trust (BTEM) Director name: Thomson ,Calum Amount purchased: 1,298 @ 765.22p Value: 9,932.56 Ultra Electronics Holdings (ULE) Director name: Sharma,Ami Amount purchased: 10 @ 1,589.00p Value: 158.90 Premier Oil (PMO) Director name: Rose ,Richard Amount purchased: 106 @ 141.90p Value: 150.41 Centrica (CNA) Director name: Conn,Iain C Amount purchased: 96 @ 155.92p Value: 149.68 Centrica (CNA) Director name: Hodges,Mark Amount purchased: 96 @ 155.92p Value: 149.68 Centrica (CNA) Director name: Hanafin,Mark Amount purchased: 96 @ 155.92p Value: 149.68 Great Portland Estates (GPOR) Director name: Courtauld,Toby Amount purchased: 22 @ 671.46p Value: 147.72 Great Portland Estates (GPOR) Director name: Sanderson,Nick Amount purchased: 22 @ 671.46p Value: 147.72 Premier Oil (PMO) Director name: Durrant ,Tony Amount purchased: 88 @ 141.90p Value: 124.87 Premier Oil (PMO) Director name: Allan,Robin Amount purchased: 88 @ 141.90p Value: 124.87 Top Director Sells Wetherspoon (j.d.) (JDW) Director name: Cacioppo,Su Amount sold: 4,333 @ 1,297.00p Value: 56,199.01 Wetherspoon (j.d.) (JDW) Director name: Hutson,John Amount sold: 3,810 @ 1,297.00p Value: 49,415.70 Wetherspoon (j.d.) (JDW) Director name: Slade,Miles Amount sold: 1,688 @ 1,297.00p Value: 21,893.36 Wetherspoon (j.d.) (JDW) Director name: Geoghegan,Martin Amount sold: 1,449 @ 1,297.00p Value: 18,793.53 Wetherspoon (j.d.) (JDW) Director name: Whitley ,Ben Amount sold: 709 @ 1,297.00p Value: 9,195.73 Wetherspoon (j.d.) (JDW) Director name: Connor ,Nigel Amount sold: 580 @ 1,297.00p Value: 7,522.60 Creditors of recently bankrupt Toys R Us have decided to keep the corporate brand name and intellectual property alive to start a new business called Geoffreys Toy Box . Geoffrey the giraffe has been the official mascot of Toys R' Us for nearly 50 years and has now taken centre stage, as Geoffrey LLC, a subsidiary that owns the intellectual property rights, and is controlled by the hedge funds and other lenders that provided financing during the bankruptcy. Geoffrey LLC issued a press release overnight saying it was working on a plan that could bring "new and re-imagined Toys R Us and Babies R Us stores" back to the US. The new company described itself as a "wholesale toy distributor and intellectual property company whose focus is on popular play patterns across trusted brands that kids and parents love". The chief merchandising officer for Toys R Us said that the new company is exploring "stores within stores" partnerships with large retailers. Geoffrey LLC owns the rights to more than 20 toy brands Toys R Us sold as part of its private label merchandise, including Imaginarium, Koala Baby, Fastlane and Journey Girls. It also owns the rights to the Toys R Us and Babies R Us names in all countries except for Canada. The Geoffrey LLC plan still needs a final approval by the bankruptcy court. The Italian government may yield to criticism of its recent budget proposals, but only modestly, following a late night meeting between the Prime Minister, Giusseppe Conte, and the country's two deputy PMs, Five Star leader Luigi di Maio and the League's Matteo Salvini. On the back of that news, the yield on the country's benchmark 10-year government note was falling by 13 basis points to 3.32%. Nevertheless, and as analysts at UniCredit Research pointed out: "any indication from the government that may deny such indications and lead to a step up in confrontation will negatively affect BTP spreads. "The situation remains fluid and mood can make sudden U-turns, depending on a rather unpredictable news flow." Holger Schmieding at Berenberg, on the other hand, was scathing in his criticism, telling clients: "With their borderline fiscal plans, Italys radical leaders have put themselves at the mercy of bond vigilantes, rating agencies and their European peers. "Italy's budget plans are seriously misguided but probably not scary enough to trigger a genuine debt crisis now. Noisy muddling through remains our base case. Still, careless talk by top leaders in Rome keeps a tail risk alive that Italy could cross the border and fall into a serious crisis soon." Overnight, Italian daily, Corriere della Sera, reported that officials in Rome will offer to reduce the country's budget deficit as a proportion of gross domestic product in 2020 and 2021, to 2.2% and 2.0%, respectively, but hold the line on next year's expected shortfall of 2.4%. Under the prior government, the deficit had originally been expected to narrow to 0.8% of GDP in 2019, but electoral promises by Italy's Five Star Movement and League political parties, which were ruling together via a coalition, had led them to revised that target sharply higher, to 2.4% for 2019, 2020 and 2021. Rome was expected to publish an Update to the Economic and Financial Document 2018 on Wednesday which would later be presented to parliament, with another cabinet meeting later in the day also considered likely by some analysts. Both chambers of parliament were expected to start discussing the document at the beginning of the following week. Stocks on the Continent bounced back despite the ongoing doubts about Rome's budget plans after the country's economics minister and one of its deputy prime ministers, Luigi di Maio, signalled that their intention was to gradually reduce Italy's debt pile, although some analysts were sceptical. According to Di Maio, his government would stick to a public deficit-to-GDP target for 2019 of 2.4% and "then we'll see". He went on to say he was looking at ways to reduce debt over the following two years, in 2020 and 2021, via "massive" cuts in waste, ANSA reported, although another report cited Di Maio as having said that the government would not take any corrective measures if growth fell short of its forecasts. Yet at the close, Milan's FTSE Mibtel had rebounded by 0.84% or 173.70 points to 20,736.01. In parallel, the yield on the benchmark 10-year Italian government note had retreated by 14 basis points to 3.31%. Meanwhile, the Stoxx 600 had gained 0.50% or 1.90 points to 383.84, alongside an advance of 0.43% or 23.51 points to 5,491.40 for the French Cac-40. To take note of, Italian business lobby group Confindustria warned that if not properly defined then proposals for a citizens' income and higher pensions could result in higher taxes in the future. For his part, Jack Allen at Capital Economics said: "Italy's problems are different to Greece's. [...] Continued anaemic growth combined with persistent budget deficits are likely to cause the debt ratio to keep on rising. This would put the Government at odds with the European Commission and under pressure from financial markets. And the associated tightening of financial conditions would add to the countrys economic problems. "That said, the situation could ultimately be much worse than even we envisage. For example, continued clashes with the EU could stoke euroscepticism, causing a similar crisis to that experienced by Greece in 2015." Elsewhere on the economic front, IHS Markit confirmed a September print of 54.7 for its euro area services sector Purchasing Managers' Index. However, the preliminary reading on its composite PMI for last month, which includes manufacturing, was revised down from 54.2 to 54.1, versus an August number of 54.5. Commenting on the figures, IHS Markit, Chris Williamson, said: "The most worrying signs come from exports. "Trade flows have more or less stalled, which represents a marked contrast to the record rate of export growth seen at the end of last year. While service sector growth remained resilient in September, it would be unusual for this to be sustained in the absence of improved manufacturing growth." In corporate news, an upgrade out of Kepler Chevreux triggered a short-covering rally in shares of French technology consultant Altran. Going the other way, shares of Norway's Norsk Hydro reeled after the outfit announced that it would shutter all production at its Alunorte alumina refinery in Brazil. Stocks on the Continent are trading near their session highs despite the ongoing doubts about Rome's budget plans. According to one of Italy's deputy Prime Ministers, Luigi Di Maio, his government would stick to a public deficit-to-GDP target for 2019 of 2.4% and "then we'll see". He also said he was looking at ways to reduce debt over the following two years, in 2020 and 2021, via "massive" cuts in waste, ANSA reported, although another report cited Di Maio as having said that the government would not take any corrective measures if growth fell short of its forecasts. Despite that, as of 1442 BST, gains in lenders' shares had pushed Milan's FTSE Mibtel up by 1.10% or 225.50 points to 20,787.51. In parallel, the yield on the benchmark 10-year Italian government note was retreating by 14 basis points to 3.31%. Meanwhile, the Stoxx 600 was edging higher by 0.57% or 2.19 points to 384.13, alongside an advance of 0.58% or 28.89 points to 5,496.78 for the French Cac-40. To take note of, Italian business lobby group Confindustria warned that if not properly defined then proposals for a citizens' income and higher pensions could result in higher taxes in the future. Holger Schmieding at Berenberg was scathing in his criticism of the Italian government, telling clients: "With their borderline fiscal plans, Italy's radical leaders have put themselves at the mercy of bond vigilantes, rating agencies and their European peers. "Italy's budget plans are seriously misguided but probably not scary enough to trigger a genuine debt crisis now. Noisy muddling through remains our base case. Still, careless talk by top leaders in Rome keeps a tail risk alive that Italy could cross the border and fall into a serious crisis soon." Elsewhere on the economic front, IHS Markit confirmed a September print of 54.7 for its euro area services sector Purchasing Managers' Index. However, the preliminary reading on its composite PMI for last month, which includes manufacturing, was revised down from 54.2 to 54.1, versus an August number of 54.5. Commenting on the figures, IHS Markit, Chris Williamson, said: "The most worrying signs come from exports. "Trade flows have more or less stalled, which represents a marked contrast to the record rate of export growth seen at the end of last year. While service sector growth remained resilient in September, it would be unusual for this to be sustained in the absence of improved manufacturing growth." In corporate news, an upgrade out of Kepler Chevreux triggered a short-covering rally in shares of French technology consultant Altran. Going the other way, shares of Norway's Norsk Hydro were left reeling after the outfit announced that it would shutter all production at its Alunorte alumina refinery in Brazil. Columbia Threadneedle Investments has joined the ranks of Unilever shareholders stating its opposition to the companys proposal to move its headquarters to Rotterdam, ahead of a vote later this month. Unilever in March confirmed plans to change its dual-headed Anglo-Dutch structure and only maintain its headquarters in the Netherlands to make the company more efficient and improve corporate governance. The maker of Dove soap and Marmite spread has operated as two companies with offices in London and the Netherlands since its formation in 1930. To go through with the move it needs 75% of shareholders to approve to it in a vote on 26 October, but it is currently meeting resistance from some of the large institutional investors. Unilever has acknowledged that its shares will probably leave the FTSE 100 index due to the move. Already, Legal & General, M&G Investments, Aviva Investors, Lindsell Train and Brewin Dolphin, have all said they would vote against the change. Collectively they hold 9.35pc stake in the consumer goods giant. The latest joining the group was Unilevers seventh-largest shareholder with a 1.18% stake, Columbia Threadneedle on Tuesday. We believe the Unilever restructuring is detrimental to UK Plc shareholders and we will be voting against the proposed resolution at the Unilever EGM on 26 October 2018, said Iain Richards, Columbia Threadneedle's head of responsible investment. Meanwhile, the trade association for investment management firms said it had raised concerns with the government, the Financial Conduct Authority and the London Stock Exchange over individual shareholders potentially not being able to vote on October 26 on the relocation proposals. Liz Field, chief executive of the Personal Investment Management and Financial Advice Association (Pimfa) said: Our profession is keen to ensure that private investors feel engaged in the companies that they own and [we] are therefore deeply troubled by the potential implications. Last month Aviva Investors said it would vote against the move, with chief investment officer for equities David Cumming saying it would be disappointing to see a company like Unilever leave the UK and would mean longstanding UK shareholders may be forced to sell their stock. "I don't see logically why any UK shareholder would support their decision to go Dutch, because there is no upside only downside." Norsk Hydro has announced that the worlds largest alumina refinery is to temporarily close, heaping pressure on both the Norwegian companys shares and the price of aluminium, albeit in opposite directions. The Alunorte refinery in Brazil had been running at 50% production since March because of embargoes placed on the plant by the Brazilian authorities, who are investigating claims that water supplies were contaminated following a period of extreme rainfall in February. But Norsk Hydro announced Wednesday it was now shutting down production entirely, because it was unable to use a new deposit area or filters due to the court orders. The announcement sent shares in Oslo-listed Norsk Hydro down 13%, to a 21-month low, while the three-month price of aluminium on the LME surged 3%, hitting an intraday high of $2,181 per tonne, its highest since June. Alumina, a refined powdery material, is a key ingredient in the production of aluminium. In 2017, Alunorte produced 6.4m tonnes of alumina, enough to make 3m tonnes of aluminium. Hydro Norsk said the shutdown of Alunorte and the accompanying Paragominas bauxite mine were temporary, although it did not say when it would reopen. John Thuestad, executive vice president of Hydros bauxite and alumina division, said: "This is a sad day because we have the worlds most advanced technologies available to continue safe operations, which we are prevented to use, and this will impact jobs, communities, suppliers and customers. "We will continue to work constructively with the authorities to life the embargo and to resume operations." Ross Strachan, senior commodities economist at Capital Economics, said: "This supply shock will clearly lead to less supply than we expected, at least for a brief period, and accordingly we are revising our end-2018 price forecast for alumina from $400 to $450 per tonne." The price of alumina reached a record high of $650 a tonne in early September before returning to around current levels of $460 tonne. Long-term, however, Strachan said he still expected supply to quickly improve once the dispute was settled and he left his long-term forecast - of $350 per tonne for end-2019 unchanged. Thanks for visiting ! The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy. We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here. Thank you for your support! Death's head shaped "grinning skull" asteroid 2015 TB145 isn't planning a Halloween visit to planet Earth this year. In 2015, the visitor from outer space zoomed by at "301,986 miles (486,000 kilometers) away," Live Science reported. But this year, the chunk of rock which arrived at Halloween last time will skip the scary festival. NASA's database at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, reveals that it will only arrive November 11. The jump-scare looking rock won't be as close either. It will pass at multiple millions of miles away from us. Death's head chunk of rock comes again in 2082 The asteroid won't be back until 2082. According to Plataforma SINC, the asteroid seemed to come out of nowhere in 2015. Measuring about 625 (685 yards) and 700 meters (765yards), the space object completes a rotation in three hours. It also looks remarkably like a "grinning skull" especially in "certain lighting" conditions. Last time it passed by at around one-quarter of the distance between the sun and Earth, In 2082, the asteroid is expected to pass at about a third of the distance between the Earth and the sun. It looks like the spooky stone is losing some interest in hitting our Halloween party. In fact, the great pumpkin is planning a route that takes it closer to Venus and Mercury. A near-earth object from the Apollo group The near-earth object is from the Apollo group and is considered a potentially dangerous asteroid for our planet. On 10 October 2015, the object was discovered by the RitcheyChretien telescope, according to the IAU Planet Center. The scientist at the Pan-STARRS location in Hawaii spotted it first. Discuss this news on Eunomia It was always out there, but we just couldn't see it as it hangs out beyond Mars' orbit most of the time. Grinning-Skull Asteroid Set to Whiz by Earth https://t.co/4cU9toJtWq pic.twitter.com/a9zRwBsClR Live Science (@LiveScience) October 1, 2018 Grinning skull isn't the only dangerous space object and one will come closer in 2027 While it's a long time before earth gets a visitation from the grinning skull, another one should come before 2082. The 2015 death's head shaped asteroid distance was described as being 1,1 lunar distance from earth. But one that comes in 2027 will be even closer at just 1 lunar distance. This means that scary things will happen again in most of our lifetimes. Unfortunately, though, it won't arrive at Halloween and it's not an exciting grinning skull shape either. Doomsters will, most likely, feel somewhat let down by the piece of rock. Origin of the death's head asteroid The origin of the potentially scary space object, asteroid 2015 TB145, is a little mundane, given the hype over its super-spooky appearance. According to NASA News in 2015, it was probably a comet that shed all the interesting bits. Now it's just a rock that came once to visit at Halloween, which added just a little twist to the imagination of pumpkin-loving people. Recently, Elon Musk the Chief of Tesla Inc. came under the spotlight immediately after the Securities Exchange Commission filed a lawsuit that originated from an infamous and impulsive tweet from Elon. The tweet stated that Elon had arranged the funding for the buyout of Tesla at a staggering price of $420 per share. This caused fluctuations in the market scenario, along with confusion amidst the investors. It is also believed that the tweet was a strategy to deviate the attention of the world from the ongoing issues of the company related to its products and the delivery system. The charges pressed by SEC According to the New York Times, Elon Musk agreed to resign from his post and was also fined $20 million by the SEC. Currently, the charges include a three-year ban on the former chairman and a formation of an SEC-approved special committee by the Board members. They will monitor every business communication from Elon Musk for the above-mentioned tenure. The unforeseen move will require Tesla to induct two experienced directors on the Board for compensating the loss. The changes are bound to affect the course of the company, but no changes in the behavior of the billionaire tech mogul were observed. Immediately after settling the dues with SEC, Elon Musk emailed the Tesla Employees to work hard in spite of it being a weekend. In spite of Elons communication to the employees predicting profits for the upcoming quarter, Tesla has been involved in cost-cutting procedures by relieving 9 percent of its workforce in June this year. They have also reduced the color variations for Model 3 cars, followed by a delay of payments to the suppliers. Discuss this news on Eunomia Persisting hurdles of Tesla With Elon Musk stepping down, the ongoing problems of the company is expected to double up. Their everlasting issues with the Model 3 cars, especially the manufacturing and delivery aspects of it are taking a toll on the annual revenue of the company. The company has invested an astronomical amount in Model 3 cars, believing them to be the face of the company. Experts emphasized the fact that Tesla, unlike other automobile industries, does not generate revenue until the product is delivered to the customers. Elon admitted facing tremendous problems with the delivery system of the company. According to the Daily Mail, the automobile maker utilized a whopping $430 million of its $2.7 billion cash supply to compensate for the $742.7 million loss in the third quarter of the current financial year. The abrupt changes in the company were followed by an abrupt fall in its share price to $265 in a single day. With upcoming bond payments of more than a billion dollars, it is of utmost importance for the share prices to be above $360 per share. The Daily Mail also confirms that Elon Musk will retain the position of CEO in Tesla. He is also the founder and CEO of SpaceX and SolarCity. The Best Little Floorhouse in Texas Your choice for flooring in Central Texas! Your flooring is more than just the surface you walk on it's an integral part of your home. With over 35 years of flooring experience, The Best Little Floorhouse in Texas has the resources and knowled Anthony Quinn in The Guardian: Physically unprepossessing overgrown, clumsy, slab-faced he was nonetheless a magnetic presence, and in his fledgling days in London as high priest of the aesthetic movement he endured chaffing with remarkable nonchalance. One gets here the sense of the young Wildes talent to annoy as much as to amuse. James Whistler, from whom he learned the art of self-advertisement, eventually turned on him (he had taught his protege too well). To Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Algernon Swinburne, his other heroes, he was an upstart and a nobody. On his year-long lecture tour of the US he didnt always meet with acclaim, or even a civil welcome a woman in Washington advised him to wear your hair shorter and your trousers longer. Back in London he made an advantageous marriage to Constance Lloyd, an heiress, sired two boys and gravitated to the centre of societys swirl and whirl, borne on his gift for talk and his burgeoning talent as a playwright. Arguably the turning points of his life were twofold: his meeting in 1886 with Robbie Ross, who initiated him in homosexual desire and the dangerous enchantments of a double life, and his later introduction to Alfred Douglas, AKA Bosie, whose vicious feud with his father, the 9th Marquess of Queensberry, became the millstones between which Wilde was helplessly ground to dust. The story of his fall continues to hold and haunt, enclosing as it does a double mystery. The first is his devotion to Douglas, whose cruelty, recklessness and near-insane bouts of rage threatened to alienate Wilde for good yet never did. Can it be explained? Cyril Connolly thought it was exactly Bosies failings this invulnerable rival egotism that kept Wilde on the hook. He may be right. The second is the enigma of Wildes refusal to flee once Queensberry and his hired detectives had him cold and a conviction surely beckoned. Everyone wants me to go abroad, said Wilde, seeing no use, unless one is a missionaryor a commercial traveller. Sturgis thinks there was a strain of defiance in his staying put, though inertia probably contributed, too. He may have been resigned to his fate and become almost an observer of his own catastrophe. More here. Jocelyn Kaiser in Science: When molecular biologist Darren Baker was winding up his postdoc studying cancer and aging a few years ago at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, he faced dispiritingly low odds of winning a National Cancer Institute grant to launch his own lab. A seemingly unlikely area, however, beckoned: Alzheimers disease. The U.S. government had begun to ramp up research spending on the neurodegenerative condition, which is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States and will afflict an estimated 14 million people in this country by 2050. There was an incentive to do some exploratory work, Baker recalls. Bakers postdoc studies had focused on cellular senescence, the cellular version of aging, which had not yet been linked to Alzheimers. But when he gave a drug that kills senescent cells to mice genetically engineered to develop an Alzheimers-like illness, the animals suffered less memory loss and fewer of the brain changes that are hallmarks of the disease. Last year, those data helped Baker win his first independent National Institutes of Health (NIH) research grantnot from NIHs National Cancer Institute, which he once expected to rely on, but from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) in Bethesda, Maryland. He now has a six-person lab at the Mayo Clinic, working on senescence and Alzheimers. Baker is the kind of newcomer NIH hoped to attract with its recent Alzheimers funding bonanza. For years, patient advocates have pointed to the growing toll and burgeoning costs of Alzheimers as the U.S. population ages. Spurred by those projections and a controversial national goal to effectively treat the disease by 2025, Congress has over 3 years tripled NIHs annual budget for Alzheimers and related dementias, to $1.9 billion. The growth spurt isnt over: Two draft 2019 spending bills for NIH would bring the total to $2.3 billionmore than 5% of NIHs overall budget. More here. A bone-strengthening drug given by IV every 18 months greatly lowered the risk of fracture in certain older women, a large study has found. The results suggest these medicines might help more people than those who get them now and can be used less often, too. Broken bones are a scourge of aging. A hip fracture can start a long decline that lands someone in a nursing home. The risk is most common in women after menopause. But who should use drugs called bisphosphonates is debatable. They're recommended for people with severely brittle bones, called osteoporosis, but their value is less clear for millions of others with moderate bone loss. Studies suggest that periodontitis, which is an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues, is associated with conditions like dementia, heart disease and diabetes, says Ada Cooper, a New York-based dentist and consumer adviser and spokesperson for the American Dental Association. By the same token, she notes, periodontitis is more likely to be present in people who have those other conditions. While she stresses that these for now are only associations, not known causes and effects, theyre interesting and concerning, and we want to know more. Inflammation could explain the mouth-body link At the moment, there are two main theories to explain why problems in the oral cavity especially gum disease (aka periodontitis) might increase the risk of disease in far-flung parts of your body. One is inflammation, says Frank Scannapieco, doctor of dental medicine and chair of oral biology at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. He likens gum disease to an abscess on your leg: Tissue gets wounded, and inflammatory chemicals rush in to help it heal and keep invaders like bacteria at bay. When this happens in your gums, the same inflammatory mediators produced by cells in the tissue there can be released into the blood, which enables these substances to travel to other organs and damage them, he explains. The second theory also has to do with inflammation, albeit indirectly. Periodontitis makes the gum tissue more permeable, which means its easier for bacteria and other microbes in the mouth to enter the bloodstream. The bacteria can then migrate to various body parts and cause inflammation and damage in those areas. Either way, older adults are particularly at risk. Periodontal disease and other oral health problems become more common with age, at a time when many people lack the resources to properly address them. The lack of dental access through programs like Medicare has left more than 26 million people without dental benefits, says Julie Frantsve-Hawley, director of analytics and evaluation at the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health. On a positive note, research has shown that when people do obtain proper treatment for periodontal disease, this translates to lower levels of inflammatory substances that are linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and Alzheimers. Thats why its so important to see a dentist at least twice a year, in addition to regularly brushing and flossing. Youve probably already heard a lot about the connection between diabetes and oral health, as its been well-established and seems to go both ways: Diabetes increases the risk of oral health problems, while gum disease is linked to higher blood sugar, which may predispose you to type 2 diabetes. Heres a look at a few of the lesser-known reasons why staying on top of your oral health might benefit your entire body. 1. Improved heart health This one might sound familiar, but its worth repeating. Numerous studies have found a strong connection between periodontal disease and an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, including atrial fibrillation, atherosclerosis (narrowed arteries) and heart failure. Poor oral health also has been linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. 2. A sharper brain Data from the National Institute of Health (NIH)s third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) found that people with bleeding gums and periodontal detachment (a loosening or separation of ligaments that connect teeth to gums) have a higher likelihood of developing age-related cognitive problems, including Alzheimers. Research, including a new study from the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, also has found that older adults whove lost a significant number of teeth face a significantly higher risk of dementia. 3. A better sex life One important link between poor oral health, heart disease and diabetes? Its endothelial dysfunction, aka narrowing of the blood vessels. That same blood flow challenge might explain why men with chronic periodontitis have a higher risk of erectile dysfunction. 4. A lower risk of serious COVID complications Its not in the same universe of protection as getting vaccinated, but consider good oral health as one more tool in your arsenal when it comes to dodging severe COVID. Research published in Frontiers in Medicine found that people with periodontal disease who contracted the virus were more likely to die compared with those who tested positive yet didnt have gum disease. Poor oral health can be linked to conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory illness and even Alzheimers all diseases that particularly impact our older citizens and put them at greater risk for COVID-19, says Frantsve-Hawley. 5. Better odds of staying healthy in the hospital If you or a loved one end up in the hospital for any reason, dont forget a toothbrush. A pilot study from the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Salem, Virginia, found that simply brushing your teeth (or having a nurse do it, if you cant do it yourself) cuts the risk of non-ventilator-associated hospital-acquired pneumonia by a whopping 92 percent. Cleaning the mouths of intubated patients is also essential, says Scannapieco. When youre intubated, the tube is a direct highway from your mouth to your lungs. Bacteria grow and divide and run down the tubing, he says. 6. A longer, healthier life Kidney disease. Cancer. COPD. These all often overlap with periodontal disease, says Scannapieco. Add diabetes, heart disease and other top killers that are associated with oral disease to the list and its not hard to understand why several studies have found a connection between poor oral health and all-cause mortality (death for any reason). One large study followed more than 76,000 people ages 16 to 89 for about three years and found that participants who had gum inflammation or more than 10 missing teeth were significantly more likely to die within the study period. Tooth loss can impact nutrition, social habits and even mental health, says Frantsve-Hawley. She also notes that the inflammatory response caused by periodontitis might make preexisting conditions like diabetes and heart disease harder to manage. Its like adding fuel to the fire, she says. The U.S. Supreme Court started its 2018 term this week. The eight justices currently on the court will hear arguments in several cases that could affect the rights of older workers. Among the key issues in those suits are: Age discrimination in public jobs Private employers who run businesses that have fewer than 20 employees are exempt from the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), which is the federal law that protects older workers from age discrimination. In Mount Lemmon Fire District v. Guido, the issue is whether small public agencies also are excluded from ADEA requirements. In 2009, two firefighters ages 46 and 54 at that time were fired by the Mount Lemmon Fire District in Arizona. The firefighters filed an age discrimination lawsuit under the ADEA, and the federal district court ruled in favor of the fire department. But the federal circuit court ruled for the two firefighters. The Supreme Courts ruling could have a wide impact for older adults working for local and state governments across the country. If the high court decides these small agencies dont have to follow the federal age discrimination law, these workers will have to rely on whatever protections their states laws provide. Social Security disability benefits More than 2 million people apply for Social Security disability benefits each year. To be eligible, a medical condition must prevent the applicants from working either in their current positions or other jobs they might be qualified to do for at least 12 straight months. In many cases, an administrative law judge decides whether a disability applicant is capable of working. In Biestek v. Berryhill, the Supreme Court will decide whether an administrative judge can rely solely on expert testimony, without the underlying data on which the testimony is based, or if more evidence is needed. Michael Biestek, a carpenter, applied for Social Security disability benefits when he was unable to work due to a degenerative disc disease. When he was originally denied benefits, Biestek asked for an administrative hearing to appeal the decision. In that hearing, a vocational expert testified that there were a variety of jobs still available to Biestek despite his condition. But when the former carpenter asked the expert to provide more information about the jobs, the administrative law judge said the expert did not have to respond. The judge ultimately denied Biestek disability benefits. According to at least three federal circuit courts, experts in these types of hearings arent required to produce evidence that the jobs they say the applicants are suitable for actually exist. The Supreme Courts ruling on what type of evidence is required in these hearings will play a major role in determining how decisions are made to approve or deny disability benefits to those applying for them. Independent contractors access to court Jobs such as driving for Uber or Lyft can be particularly appealing for older workers and retirees, who basically become independent contractors when they do these kinds of jobs. One case before the Supreme Court this term, New Prime Inc. v. Oliveira, could potentially affect whether independent contractors who work in transportation are able to take their employment disputes to the courts instead of to arbitration. The Federal Arbitration Act (FAA) permits companies to require their employees to agree to resolve disagreements in arbitration. But that law has an exemption for contracts of employment of seamen, railroad employees or any other class of workers engaged in foreign or interstate commerce. One question the Supreme Court will answer in the New Prime case is whether this exception applies to independent contractors or just employees. Dominic Oliveira worked as a driver for New Prime, an interstate trucking company. He began as an independent contractor and later was hired as an employee. In 2015, he filed a suit against the company saying that New Prime violated Missouris minimum wage statute, among other complaints. New Prime then tried to force the dispute into arbitration, eventually leading the case to the Supreme Court this term. Both the federal district and circuit courts ruled for Oliveira. Deep Yellow Limited ( ASX:DYL ) ( OTCMKTS:DYLLF ) (Deep Yellow) is pleased to report on encouraging drilling results on EPL3497 where new continuous mineralisation has been identified in the Tumas 1 East palaeochannel area. Drilling was also conducted in the S-Bend channel area to the north which did not identify significant mineralisation. This EPL is held by Reptile Uranium Namibia (Pty) Ltd (RUN), part of the group of companies wholly owned by Deep Yellow.HIGHLIGHTS- Significant uranium mineralisation identified in untested Tumas 1 East tributary channel area with 67% of drilling returning >100ppm eU3O8 over 1mo Drilling continuing with 95 holes for 1,199m completedo 5-7m thick, near-surface continuous mineralisation open to east- Best intersections include:o TA004 8m at 351 ppm eU3O8 from surfaceo TA026 8m at 335 ppm eU3O8 from surfaceo TA028 5m at 1099 ppm eU3O8 from 2mo TA029 6m at 541 ppm eU3O8 from 2mo TA032 7m at 821 ppm eU3O8 from surfaceo TA033 4m at 523 ppm eU3O8 from surfaceo TA051 8m at 389 ppm eU3O8 from 2mo TA060 12m at 412 ppm eU3O8 from 2m- Mineralisation is calcrete associated hosted within palaeochannels, similar to the Langer Heinrich uranium mine located 30km to the northAs previously announced drilling programs commenced in July 2018 with semi-regional exploration drilling in the S-Bend Area. This regional program was completed at the end of August with 148 RC holes drilled for 2,171m. This was immediately followed by exploration drilling starting early September east of the Tumas 1 uranium deposit with 95 RC holes for 1,199m drilled for the month. The balance of the 10,000m campaign remaining to be drilled in the period to the end of 2018 is continuing. With the discovery of the newly identified mineralised channel at Tumas 1 East, work will focus in this area longer than originally anticipated before returning to resource drilling over the previously identified highly prospective western extension of Tumas 3. It appears two major prospective zones have been delineated which now require high priority attention. Figure 1 (see link below) shows the prospective paleochannel system outline and prospect locations.Tumas East DrillingExploration drilling at Tumas East upstream of Tumas 1 is testing part of a three pronged tributary channel system draining into the main Tumas channel at Tumas 1. These are referred as Tails 1, 2 and 3.To date a total of 95 holes for 1,199m was drilled in the area. Drill spacings varied from 50 to 100m along lines 200 to 800m apart. 64 of these holes returned positive results of more than 100 ppm eU3O8 over 1m. This reflects a 67% success rate. The average thickness of the mineralisation is close to 5m. The average grade of the 1m intersections >100ppm U3O8 is 340 ppm.The drilling at the main tributary east of Tumas 1, named Tail 1 (Fig. 2) is at early stages and so far, has outlined a uraniferrous channel 3.5km in strike length showing continuous calcrete uranium mineralisation. The channel ranges from 200m to 900m in width. The mineralisation is located at shallow depth between 0 to 12m below surface. Except for localised hot spots large parts of this mineralisation do not show any surface radiometric expression.The mineralisation remains open towards the east. Air photo and satellite image interpretation has identified further untested channels also to the south (Tails 2 and 3 on fig 2). Tail 2 was partially tested by extending two exploration drill lines. This identified uranium mineralisation >100ppm eU3O8 in 8 of 12 holes indicating the adjacent tributary also has the potential to host further calcrete-type uranium mineralisation. This adds an additional 16km of untested prospective palaeochannel to this target area.Drill hole locations are shown in Figure 2 (see link below). Figures 3 and 4 (see link below) show adjacent drill cross-sections highlighting the continuity and thickness of the mineralisation. Figure 5 (see link below) shows a drill crosssection extending from the main tributary into one of the southern untested channels (Tail 2).Equivalent uranium oxide (eU3O8) values as reported here have been determined by Deep Yellow personnel and these will be validated by a competent geophysicist for resource estimation purposes. The equivalent uranium values are based on down-hole radiometric gamma logging carried out by a fully calibrated Aus-Log gamma logging system.The ongoing drilling will be aimed at defining the extent of the mineralised system at Tumas East first, before infill drilling for resource definition will start.Mineralised intersections that are above the100ppm eU3O8 over 1m cut-off are tabulated in Table 1, Appendix 1 (see link below). All drill hole locations are listed in Table 3, Appendix 1 (see link below).Semi-Regional Exploration Drilling S-Bend AreaSemi-regional exploration drilling at S-Bend was completed in August. Drilling was mainly aimed at testing surface radiometric anomalies over interpreted palaeochannels. Some drilling followed up previous encouraging results. A total of 148 holes for 2,171m was completed in this area. Drill hole spacing was highly variable ranging from 100 to 200m spaced holes along profiles 200 to 800m apart. Although the drilling confirmed the presence of a paleochannel system, no new continuous calcrete-type mineralisation could be identified in these channels.Figure 6 (see link below) shows the exploration drill hole locations and the palaeochannel outlines in the S-Bend Area.Mineralised intersections from the S-Bend drilling above >100 ppm eU3O8 over 1m cut-off are tabulated in Table 2, Appendix 1 (see link below).All drill hole locations are listed in Table 3, Appendix 1 (see link below).AnalysisThe results of the ongoing exploration continue to be very encouraging. The current drilling has identified a new continuous zone of mineralisation associated with the eastern extension of Tumas 1 and remains open to the east. Importantly, new uranium mineralisation in the tributary paleochannel system in the Tumas East area has opened up the potential for further mineralisation in the south-adjacent Tails 2 and 3 tributaries.The 2018 drill program is still ongoing focussing on extending the known mineralisation at Tumas 1 East. Drilling is demonstrating the potential to further extend the mineralisation. Testing for mineralisation in tributary channels entering the main channel from the south-east and north-east now becomes a priority for eventual upgrade of the overall resource base associated with these highly fertile palaeochannels. As previously shown, the uranium mineralisation is not confined to one simple, single channel but rather is associated with a complex palaeodrainage system containing several channels.Appendix 1, Tables 1 and 2 (see link below) list the 64 exploration drill holes at Tumas East and 23 semiregional exploration drill holes from the S-Bend Area respectively returning uranium intersections above cut-off and showing equivalent uranium values in ppm and thickness with hole depth and coordinates provided. Table 3 in Appendix 1 (see link below) lists all drill holes completed to 30 September 2018 from the current drilling program which are the subject of this release.ConclusionThis fourth (ongoing) drilling campaign is again producing successful results. It is confirming that the previously discovered deposits can be expanded. This is not only expected to add to the current uranium resource base of this project but, just as significantly, continues to emphasise the strong exploration potential of the extensive, uranium-fertile palaeochannel system within which the new Tumas Palaeochannel discoveries occur.There are now 5 distinct mineralised zones (Tumas 1 & 2, Tumas 3, Tubas Sand/calcrete deposits and Tumas East) identified within the 125km of palaeochannels that occur within the Reptile Project tenements (see figure 1 in link below). Some 60%, or approximately 75 km, of this palaeochannel system which deepens to the west remains to be properly tested.These positive results, both from the current and 2017 drilling and reinterpretation of historic exploration data, confirm management's confidence that the existing uranium resource base for Langer Heinrich style deposit/s within the Reptile project area can be further increased.The current drilling program will continue throughout 2018 with infill resource drilling required for resource estimations as well as to define the extensive tributary palaeochannel system that exists at Tumas East.An updated Inferred Resource estimation for the Tumas East Zone, in conjunction with Tumas 1&2, is expected to be delivered early 2019.CEO CommentJohn Borshoff commented: "Our work on the Reptile Project is again confirming the very high prospectively of the Tumas palaeochannel system that has been identified. The new zone of mineralisation that has been discovered adds significantly to the potential of these channels, which have all the hallmarks of a company maker in terms of achieving our previously stated resource target objectives."To view tables and figures, please visit:About Deep Yellow LimitedDeep Yellow Limited (ASX:DYL) (OTCMKTS:DYLLF) (Namibian Stock Exchange:DYL) is a differentiated, advanced uranium exploration company, in predevelopment phase, implementing a contrarian strategy to grow shareholder wealth. This strategy is founded upon growing the existing uranium resources across the Company's uranium projects in Namibia and the pursuit of accretive, counter-cyclical acquisitions to build a global, geographically diverse asset portfolio. A PFS has recently been completed on its Tumas Project in Namibia and a DFS commenced February 2021. The Company's cornerstone suite of projects in Namibia is situated within a top-ranked African mining destination in a jurisdiction that has a long, well-regarded history of safely and effectively developing and regulating its considerable uranium mining industry. Contact John Borshoff Managing Director/CEO T: +61-8-9286-6999 Email: john.borshoff@deepyellow.com.au www.deepyellow.com.au John BorshoffManaging Director/CEOT: +61-8-9286-6999Email: john.borshoff@deepyellow.com.auwww.deepyellow.com.au Mustang Resources Ltd ("Mustang", the "Company") ( ASX:MUS ) ( FRA:GGY ) ( OTCMKTS:MTTGF ) is pleased to announce that preliminary vanadium testwork has produced outstanding recovery and concentrate results, from bench-scale metallurgical testwork, on ore from the Fresh Zone of the Caula Vanadium-Graphite Project in Mozambique. Through the integrated graphite and vanadium flowsheet, the testwork utilised Wet High Intensity Magnetic Separation (WHIMS) on composite samples, which resulted in a Cleaner Concentrate grade of 1.66% V2O5, with a recovery rate of 80.6%. Results were achieved from an overall feed grade of 0.401% V2O5, before graphite extraction. The Caula Project is located along strike from Syrah Resources' ( ASX:SYR ) world-class Balama graphite-vanadium project in Mozambique.Key Points- Preliminary metallurgical testwork focussed on vanadium recovery has produced outstanding results, through bench-scale Wet High Intensity Magnetic Separation (WHIMS), after extraction of graphite from the same feed material- Preliminary WHIMS testwork on composite samples from the Fresh Zone has resulted in a Cleaner Concentrate grade of 1.66% V2O5 at a recovery rate of 80.6%. Results were achieved from an overall feed grade of 0.401% V2O5 before graphite extraction- Combined Cleaner and Scavenger Concentrates from WHIMS resulted in a recovery rate of 90.8% with a concentrate grade of 1.42% V2O5- These excellent preliminary vanadium metallurgical results from the WHIMS testwork further demonstrate the potential of combined vanadium and graphite extractions from the Caula Project- Quantitative mineralogy studies are underway to investigate mineral associations in vanadium concentrate, with initial studies confirming micaceous nature of the concentrate- Extraction process for vanadium hosted in mica and silicate minerals are significantly different from vanidiferous titanomagnetite (VTM) deposits- Ongoing metallurgical testwork is aimed at improving vanadium recovery concentrate grades and recovering high-purity (>98% V2O5) vanadium pentoxide- Caula Scoping Study nearing completion with report expected around 5 October 2018Mustang Resources' Managing Director Dr. Bernard Olivier commented: "These preliminary vanadium concentration and recovery results achieved through a simple magnetic separation process (WHIMS) are truly outstanding. Concentration through a WHIMS process is highly economical compared with other concentration processes and requires no expensive nor complicated reagents. I urge investors to compare our exceptional preliminary concentrate grades of around 1.7% V2O5 and 81% recoveries with other vanadium-dedicated projects. Furthermore, our vanadium grades and recoveries are in addition to the exceptional grade and quality of graphite extracted from the same material."The Caula Project is in the unique position of hosting both exceptional quality and high-grade graphite (up to ~99% TGC concentrates and 68% large to jumbo flake sizes) (see Note 1 below), in addition to high grade vanadium, within the shallow mineralisation of the same deposit. Magnetic separation testwork has been performed on fresh rock (Fresh Zone) samples at a nominal grind size and vanadium concentration bench-scale testwork was preliminary in nature, yet has already delivered exceptional results, which the Company considers could form the basis of a commercially viable operation.The bench-scale metallurgical testwork was conducted on a composite diamond drillcore sample weighing approximately 62kg located in the Fresh Zone of drillhole number MODD018. The composite sample comprised diamond core with a down-hole depth of between 160m and 212m. Assay analyses of the composite returned a feed grade of 0.401% V2O5 and 16.0% TGC. The composite material was stage-ground in a laboratory rod mill to a nominal grind size of P100 0.50mm (500 microns m). The composite sample of fresh diamond drillcore was first subjected to a simplified rougher and cleaner graphite flotation procedure to recover the majority of the graphite.The grade assay analysis of the combined graphite flotation tailings was 0.1% TGC, and 0.479% V2O5 and represents the feed grade of the vanadium concentration through the WHIMS process. The rougher and cleaner graphite flotation tails were then combined and ground to a nominal grind size of P80 to 0.050 mm (500 microns m).A portion of the tailings from the graphite flotation was fed to a laboratory Wet High Intensity Magnetic Separation (WHIMS) with a field strength set at 1.2 Tesla (12,000 Gauss). The testwork procedure for vanadium recovery by WHIMS is shown in Figure 1 above (see link below). The concentrate from this run was then cleaned in a second pass through the separator to produce a cleaner concentrate. The tailings products were then combined and again fed through the WHIMS to produce a scavenger concentrate and a tailing.Highlights of initial testwork include:- The results of the rougher WHIMS followed by cleaner WHIMS achieved an 80.6% recovery to a concentrate grade of 1.66% V2O5.- Scaveging the rougher and cleaner tailings delivered a further 10.2% recovery to a scavenger concentrate grade of 0.67% V2O5.- Combining cleaner and scavenger concentrates gives an overall recovery of 90.8% to a combined concentrate grade of 1.42% V2O5 from this simple open circuit test.- Results were achieved from an initial composite feed grade of 0.401% V2O5, prior to graphite extraction through flotation.- A full-scale commercial circuit could employ more stages of cleaning and scavenging, and intermediate products such as cleaner tailings and scavenger concentrates could be recycled to achieve improved concentrate grades and recoveries.- This initial testwork has shown that high vanadium concentrate grades and recoveries can be achieved from the tailings of the graphite flotation process through the WHIMS process.- Quantitative mineralogy studies are underway to investigate mineral associations in vanadium concentrate, with the initial results confirming the micaceous nature of the concentrate.Further TestworkThe Company is progressing with additional testwork which will produce a bulk sample of high-grade graphite concentrate for evaluation of downstream processing characteristics. Tailings from this graphite flotation work will be used in additional vanadium concentrate recovery tests, including testing of the weathered and oxidised material.Quantitative mineralogy studies are also underway to investigate mineral associations in vanadium concentrate with initial studies confirming micaceous nature of the concentrate. The extraction process for vanadium from mica is significantly different to vanadium extraction from vanidiferous titanomagnetite magnetites (VTM). The vanadium extraction process from micas, has closer parallels to the processes associated with lithium extraction from micas and clay minerals.One example of Lithium extraction from a micaceous concentrate typically involved concentration of zinnwaldite (lithium mica) through a WHIMS process(see Note 2 below). The concentrate is then roasted at 850 deg C with sodium sulphate to break the mica crystal structure. The roasted product is then leached with hot water to recover the lithium into solution. This type of roasting is quite different to conventional VTM concentrate processing where higher temperatures (e.g. 1,150 deg C) are required and where SiO2 causes problems with roasting. Another example of lithium recovery from a clay mineral involves roasting the ore with calcium sulfate to make the lithium amenable to hot water leaching(see Note 3 below).The Company aims to conduct metallurgical tests including bench-scale roasting and leaching testwork to produce vanadium pentoxide with a minimum 98.5% purity.Vanadium recovery from vanidiferous micas, including Roscoelite is well documented and a number of extraction processes have been established. One example involved roasting a micaceous ore at 850 deg C with an addition of 3 to 5% of calcium sulfate(see Note 4 below). This was followed by vanadium dissolution by a carbonate/bicarbonate leach.All the current and planned testwork is geared towards optimising the beneficiation process and establish a robust, low-cost flowsheet for both graphite and vanadium extraction as well as vanadium downstream beneficiation.Notes:1 Refer to ASX Announcement dated 25 June 20182 Refer to ASX announcement by European Metals Holdings Limited dated 28 March 20183 Refer to TSX announcement of Western Lithium (TSX:WLC) Limited dated 27 January 20124 Refer to article entitled: "Effect of Roasting on Recovery of Uranium and Vanadium from Carnotite Ores by Carbonate Leaching, by J. Halpern, F. A. Forward, and A. H. Ross Transactions AIME, October 1957, Mining, P1129 to 1134)To view figures, please visit:About New Energy Minerals LtdNew Energy Minerals (ASX:NXE) is an ASX listed junior mining company, that recently announced the divestment of the Company's Caula vanadium - graphite project and the Montepuez Ruby project in Mozambique. Contact Managing Director: Mustang Resources Limited Bernard Olivier E: bernard@mustangresources.com.au M: +61-4-08948-182 T: +27-66-4702-979 Media & Investor Relations: Jane Morgan Management Jane Morgan E: jm@janemorganmanagement.com.au T: +61-405-555-618 Managing Director:Mustang Resources LimitedBernard OlivierE: bernard@mustangresources.com.auM: +61-4-08948-182T: +27-66-4702-979Media & Investor Relations:Jane Morgan ManagementJane MorganE: jm@janemorganmanagement.com.auT: +61-405-555-618 Business owners in Albuquerque who use barbed wire and similar materials as a security measure to protect their property will get a temporary reprieve from a city requirement for their removal. Albuquerque city councilors on Monday approved a two-year moratorium on enforcing a ban on barbed tape, razor wire, barbed wire and similar materials. The approved resolution applies only to existing wire, however, and the city will not issue new permits for those materials except in areas previously zoned heavy commercial, industrial park, light manufacturing, heavy manufacturing or corresponding zones. Robert Vick, owner of Vicks Vittles Country Kitchen on Central SE, told councilors that business owners need the ability to protect their property when the city cant do that at this point. Were in a bad situation right now where theres so much crime thats going on to property owners that the police cant get there, Vick said. Theyre only taking care of violent crimes. They dont have the time or resources to get to the other crimes that are going on thats costing us thousands and thousands of dollars. The council passed a ban in 2012 on barbed wire and similar materials in residential areas and where its visible in a public space in non-residential zones. The prohibition was reinforced under the Integrated Development Ordinance, which came into force this year. Councilor Pat Davis, who sponsored the bill along with Councilor Brad Winter, said the moratorium will allow businesses more time to comply with city rules or to participate in the annual public Integrated Development Ordinance review process. Some businesses pointed out that it would cost thousands of dollars to comply in the 30- to 60-day process, Davis said. Given our crime situation, that might not be tenable for everyone right away. Copyright 2018 Albuquerque Journal While the core of the states case against Fabian Gonzales rests on his ties to a local street gang and retaliation for threats prosecutors say he made toward rival gang members, Gonzales defense attorney has filed motions recently that cast doubt on that narrative. The District Attorneys Office has said that 10-year-old Victoria Martens was raped and strangled in her mothers apartment in August 2016 because Gonzales threatened rival gang members after a fight at a barbecue a couple of days earlier. Prosecutors have written that the nexus between defendants threats to rival gang members and the retaliation that ensued and led to the homicide of Victoria is more than apparent and claimed repeatedly that Gonzales is a member of the notorious street gang Thugs Causing Kaos. He is charged with reckless child abuse resulting in death and several counts of tampering with evidence. But motions filed by Gonzales attorney, Stephen Aarons, question Gonzales gang connections. There is no evidence that defendant has ever participated in gang activities or assisted a member of any known gang, he wrote in a motion. Defendant did not retaliate for receiving a black eye from a girl, and it is illogical to think he would retaliate in his own home or that some fictitious gang members would retaliate because he was punched in the eye by a girl. In response to emailed questions, Aarons said he believes the District Attorneys Office is struggling to come up with a motive for the crime. They are NOT saying that Fabian or a member of his gang retaliated after he got beat up and hired a hit man to strangle his new girlfriends daughter in her bedroom, he wrote. Rather, the prosecution is claiming that a RIVAL gang the judge asked at a recent hearing whether the state thinks there is another gang besides Fabians or not retaliated against something Fabian did after he was beat up at the barbecue party a few days before the murder. The crux of their argument is that an as-yet unidentified gang retaliated when Fabian made threatening texts for several hours after the BBQ. Gang affiliation During a stint at the county jail in September 2006, Gonzales did self-identify as a member of the gang Kriminal Minded Kaos in an inmate identification sheet, but he said at that time that the gang had disbanded. Gonzales, then 21, said that he joined KMK when he was 17. In response to the question, What did you expect to gain by joining? Gonzales answered, I didnt expect anything I just wanted to show my brother that I love him and I am down for him. Gonzales has KMK tattooed on his abdomen and thug and life tattooed on his forearms, according to booking sheets. In response to questions about whether the group is at war or enemies with other groups Gonzales said, The group is gone. A spokeswoman for the Metropolitan Detention Center said that was the only formal interview Gonzales did with the jails gang security officers. After subsequent arrests, she said, officers would have kept an eye on Gonzales for any new gang tattoos and would have talked with him about any changes in affiliation. If the officers had found signs that he had joined another gang, they would have had him do another formal interview. Although initially Gonzales, his cousin Jessica Kelley and Victorias mother, Michelle Martens, were charged with rape and murder in the killing of the little girl, last month prosecutors announced a new theory about what happened. Kelley has said she was high on methamphetamine and baby-sitting Victoria when a well-dressed Mexican man came to the apartment, asked for Gonzales by his street name, and then went into Victorias bedroom and killed her. In the motions, attorney Aarons downplayed the fight at the barbecue and said interviews with the hosts show that they didnt believe he was referencing TCK. Further, the people at the barbecue party do not claim to be gang members and did not take defendant seriously when he was upset for getting punched in the eye, he wrote in a motion. The woman who lived in the home and who Gonzales is said to have threatened is not listed in the Metropolitan Detention Center database of gang members, according to a jail spokeswoman. Prosecutors say the womans boyfriend is in a rival gang, but the man told the defense teams investigator that he had left that nonsense when I was a kid, according to an interview transcript. A spokesman for the DA did not answer questions about Gonzales gang ties. The Court of Appeals is reviewing an appeal by the state on the judges ruling excluding statements and other evidence. Judge Charles Brown will rule on Aarons motions after the case returns to the 2nd Judicial District Court. DNA disputed Along with gang retaliation, DNA has also been a focus in the evolving case. Over the summer, the District Attorneys Office said it found a partial DNA sample likely from saliva, hair or skin cells from an unidentified male on Victorias back. More recently, it has said that male DNA was also found under her fingernails and around her neck. Last week, Aarons asked for the state to be sanctioned for not turning over all the DNA evidence, a charge prosecutors have disputed. The defendants motion is not only without merit but it is in fact wholly frivolous and full of factual misstatements, prosecutor Greer Rose wrote in response. Although Aarons presented the theory that a mixture of DNA from at least five individuals was found on the crotch of a jumpsuit worn by Kelley and could have been transferred to Victoria, Rose said that was not only outlandish but completely divorced from the actual evidence. The jumpsuit in question did not belong to Kelley. A DA spokesman said the jumpsuit possibly belonged to Victoria and the DNA was not found on the crotch, but on the bottom and the straps. While the criminal case is ongoing, Aarons has submitted a tort notice of claim to the city to protect Gonzales right to sue for a violation of civil rights. On the notice, he says the city is at fault because Gonzales was wrongfully arrested and detained for the murder of Victoria Martens. Police extracted false confessions and withheld evidence. SANTA FE A Santa Fe District Court judge ruled Tuesday that a woman accused of fatally strangling her 5-year-old stepson must be held in jail until trial, saying the woman likely suffers from mental illness that causes her to be dangerous. For today, Im finding clear and convincing evidence that tilts the scales in favor of the state, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer said from the bench as she order continued incarceration. Melynie Curtis, 20, told Santa Fe police she strangled her stepson, Jayden Curtis, at an Airport Road apartment Sept. 22 while the boys father was at work. Jayden first was declared brain dead by doctors at Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center in Santa Fe and the boy was later pulled from life support at the University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque. Prosecutor Martin Maxwell told Marlowe Sommer that police had been called to Curtis home a few months before Jaydens death, on April 2, after she held a razor blade to her stomach while she was seven months pregnant and threatened to slice open her belly. Although Curtis doesnt have a criminal history, Marlowe Sommer decided that Curtis recent violent acts prove she is a danger to herself and people who may be around her. That certainly tells me that we have some mental illness here, the judge said. Defense attorney Todd Farkas asked Marlowe Sommer to allow Curtis to be placed on house arrest with her grandparents in the Navajo Nation and said U.S. marshals had jurisdiction to enter the reservation if Curtis were to violate her conditions of release. I dont believe she is a danger to anyone else as long as shes not around any children, Farkas said. But prosecutor Maxwell was against letting Curtis live with her grandparents and maintained that she is out of control with rage and anger. Curtiss three biological children were at the apartment when Jayden was strangled. Those children are now in foster care, but Maxwell said he was still worried that they could be in danger if Curtis is released. Jayden was brought to the Santa Fe hospital with a broken clavicle two days before he was taken back there after the strangling incident. The state Children, Youth and Families Department was called in for the clavicle injury and emailed a notification about it to Santa Fe Police, but officers werent able to investigate before Jayden died. On the second visit to the hospital, Curtis originally claimed that Jayden accidentally drowned in the bathtub, but doctors found no signs of drowning and instead found injuries consistent with strangulation. Curtis then told police that she didnt mean to choke Jayden that hard and was getting upset with him because he kept saying that she wasnt his mother. An Albuquerque charter school marked by an embezzlement scandal has met the requirements of its corrective action plan. The state Public Education Commission unanimously voted last month to lift La Promesa Early Learning Center from the probationary period it has been on for the past two school years. In 2017, an investigation by the Office of the State Auditor found that La Promesa former assistant business manager Julieanne Maestas allegedly diverted roughly $500,000 from the kindergarten-through-eighth-grade charter school into her personal bank account. In addition, she deposited about $177,000 worth of questionable checks. That investigation followed a finding by then-Auditor Tim Keller that her mother, La Promesa founder and former Albuquerque Public Schools Board of Education member Analee Maestas, paid about $340 for duct cleaning at her home, then wrote over the receipt to make it appear the cleaning company had worked on carpets at La Promesa to allow for reimbursement. La Promesa got its school grade to a C in the 2017-18 school year, up from an F the year prior one of the requirements of its corrective action plan. The school faced possible, immediate revocation while it worked on its improvement plan. Since the plan was put in place, the school has recovered $650,000 that was embezzled, the school says. The school, which has 348 students enrolled, was founded in 2008 by Analee Maestas, who later blamed her daughters substance abuse for the embezzlement. She resigned from the APS board about a year ago. During the six-year period that Julieanne Maestas allegedly diverted school funds, the state Public Education Department audited La Promesa annually using an independent auditor, but never flagged possible fraud or embezzlement. In a written statement Tuesday, head administrator Chris Jones praised the students and families of La Promesa, and assured them that all the schools money has been spent on students and staff. Our school meeting the rigorous goals outlined in the CAP is something worthy of celebration for the entire La Promesa community, Jones said. The last two years have been intense for all involved. When fight or flight became our only two options, the core La Promesa staff committed to fighting for our students and families, and put students first through critical actions instead of empty words; we prevailed, and that feeling is indescribable. The controversy over the seizure of migrant children and another that is unfolding over the harsh treatment of the 39,000 detainees in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement has obscured a battle raging largely off the publics radar: whether ICE should be allowed to destroy its official records of the physical and sexual abuse of detainees. ICEs plans, first submitted to the National Archives and Records Administration in 2015 with revisions in 2017, set off a minor furor; the American Civil Liberties Union last year gathered more than 24,700 signatures in opposition to ICEs proposal and others, including members of the U.S. House and Senate, complained as well. ICE is still tinkering with its proposal and has not abandoned its request for permission to destroy its records despite fierce opposition from such groups as the American Historical Association The proposal is troubling for a couple of reasons. NARA has a nasty habit of rubber-stamping controversial document destruction plans like this one. The other is that the records, even if they are biased in ICEs favor, can substantially corroborate the reports of harsh detention conditions that are emerging. One advocacy group, Freedom for Immigrants, counted 800 allegations of abuse motivated by hate or bias since President Donald Trump took office. The reports are damning. A private detention facility in Tacoma, Wash., sits in a toxic, sludge-filled Superfund site and has been the subject of (many) complaints against its staff for physical and sexual assault. At facilities in California, numerous incidents of sexual abuse have been alleged. In Arizona, two former detention facility workers (are)accused of molesting nine migrant teens The nonprofit news site ProPublica has documented 125 reports of alleged sexual abuse at ICE facilities for children since 2014. Nationwide, more than half of those who have been accused of sexual abuse have been ICE employees. LGBTQ detainees are particularly susceptible to abuse, experiencing a reported 97 times more incidents of sexual assault than other detainees. One report speculates that sexual assault and harassment in immigration detention are not only widespread but systemic, and enabled by an agency (ICE) that regularly fails to hold itself accountable. Elsewhere, at a Staunton, Va., facility for juveniles, migrant teens were routinely beaten while handcuffed, according to filings in federal court. In Georgia, the owner of the 1,700-bed private prison in Lumpkin is, according to a class-action lawsuit, forcing detainees to clean, cook and perform other tasks for as little as $1 day and no more than $4 for a double shift maximizing the owners profits. And in New Jersey, an exhaustive study by the group Human Rights First found detainees are being given food with maggots, dirty drinking water and shoddy medical and mental health care. It also documented the use of solitary confinement for such infractions as requesting medical treatment and filing grievances. At other facilities, published reports claim that detainees have been put in solitary confinement for praying and that medical care is often delayed or denied. President Trump has called the migrants animals and has repeatedly cast them as gang members, drug dealers and rapists who will usher in a tidal wave of crime if allowed into the country. Scholars dispute his claims. The libertarian Cato Institute concluded in June that the vast majority of research finds that immigrants (in Texas) do not increase local crime rates and are less likely to cause crime and less likely to be incarcerated than their native-born peers. In debasing the migrants, Trump is following in the footsteps of tyrants throughout history who have scapegoated minorities, often with catastrophic results. NARA should reject ICEs proposal. ICEs records confirm the reports of advocacy groups, the news media and others about the deplorable conditions faced by migrant detainees, who are often treated no better than many convicted felons. Spanish philosopher George Santayana famously observed that if we dont learn from history, were doomed to repeat it. But to learn from it, we need to record it first. CHICAGO Gubernatorial candidates in Maryland, Arizona, Connecticut and at least seven other states plus even more candidates for Congress are running on plans to make college free or debt-free, according to the industry publication Inside Higher Ed. But how much impact on college attendance, graduation and lifetime earnings do such programs actually have? There are no definitive answers, but some indicators arent exactly reassuring. According to a study by the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, a nonprofit based in Kalamazoo, Mich., the underprivileged dont get a lot out of college and, perversely, those who benefit most from a college degree turn out to be students with middle-class backgrounds. The institutes analysis of a data set that included 50 years of interviews with 18,000 Americans found the career earnings premium from a four-year college degree (relative to a high school diploma) for persons from low-income backgrounds is considerably less than it is for those from higher-income backgrounds (and) we find that education not only has much lower absolute returns for persons from low-income backgrounds, it also has much lower proportional returns. A small earnings boost, coupled with student loans that can never be discharged through bankruptcy, sounds like a raw deal to the first-in-their-family students who have been most encouraged, inspired and practically pushed into pursuing a college degree. So while the campaign-speech catnip of free college sounds enticing to those who want a shot at middle-class life, benefits of a free educational lunch may be no more than a crowd-pleasing mirage. A study by the Brookings Institution on one of the first randomized control trials of a debt-free college program looked at students in the Milwaukee Public Schools program who were promised up to $12,000 to pay for college an amount that would cover all tuition and fees at the local two-year college or at most of the in-state four-year institutions. It found the incentive had no effect on whether students went directly on to college from high school. The programs didnt randomly hand out free tuition like candy, either. Students were required to graduate on time from a Milwaukee public high school with at least a 2.5 cumulative grade-point average and a 90 percent class-attendance rate. The students were also required to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which, because it requires parental tax information, often serves as proxy for how much the students family supports attend(ing) college. Still, even though the students in the program did exhibit more motivation to attend college and filled out more applications to college than they might have otherwise the totality of the investment in getting the students across the finish line of a degree was not significant. In the end, only 21 percent of the students enrolled in The Degree Project with the Milwaukee schools met the performance requirements to unlock the college funds, basically the same as the control group. We identify three related reasons why the effects were not more substantial, the report noted. (a) The performance requirements greatly reduced the number of students who could plausibly receive the funds; (b) the performance requirements, combined with the temporary, small-scale design, meant the program did not have the catalyzing effect on high schools that otherwise similar programs have seen; and (c) the context in Milwaukee particularly, the very low level of academic performance and lack of counselor resources may have been particularly ill-suited to make a performance-based aid program work well. The American public, with its aspirations of meritocracy, seems unlikely to ever support a program that doesnt require, at a minimum, middling grades that produce a 2.5 GPA about a high C or low B. This bar can be harder to reach for low-income students who are struggling against many factors to make the grade. As with so many other well-meaning efforts to reduce inequalities in society, free college seems like it has great potential but requires far more pilot programs and longitudinal research. Before making promises to young people, we must design programs (without) the unintended consequences of leaving needy students economically insecure after promising college is the ticket to a financially prosperous life. President Donald Trumps critics, of whom there are plenty, would likely be loathe to do so but at some point they might have to concede the president has gotten results on the trade front. Case in point is the sweeping new trade agreement announced late Sunday for the United States, Mexico and Canada to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA. Mexico had signed on earlier and was prepared to go with a bilateral Mexico-U.S. deal as a reluctant Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau held out. But pressure mounted on Trudeau at home as Trump played hardball even refusing to meet with him last week in New York where world leaders had gathered at the United Nations and the end result is an agreement that makes significant changes and leaders of the three nations say will lead to a stronger North American economy. The new deal also has a new name. Good-bye NAFTA; hello United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA, that governs $1.2 trillion in trade among the three nations. Trade pacts, of course, are voluminous. According to a Washington Post analysis, the new deal has 63 pages dealing solely with intellectual property beefing up protections for patents and trademarks, including areas such as biotech and financial services. It opens up Canadas milk market to U.S. dairy farmers, and has significant improvements in labor and environmental rights. For example, Mexican trucks that cross the border into the U.S. must meet higher safety regulations, and Mexican workers must have more ability to organize and form unions one reason some U.S. labor unions and Democrats are cheering the new rules. There are big changes for auto manufacturing as Trump seeks to re-balance global trade. A key goal of the new deal is to have more cars and truck parts made in North America. Starting in 2020, to qualify for zero tariffs, a car or truck must have 75 percent of its components manufactured in Canada, Mexico or the United States. And it requires that a significant percentage of work done on the vehicle must be completed by workers earning at least $16 an hour about three times the typical Mexican auto workers current pay. Translation: fewer cars will be built in North America with cheap labor and cheaper parts manufactured in Asia. Thats a win-win for North America, and it sends a message to China. Its worth noting that Mexicos populist President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador made higher wages a centerpiece of his successful campaign that unseated decades of established Mexican political power structure. Another key provision requires a review of USMCA in six years. NAFTA lingered far too long without needed reforms. It also has impact right here in New Mexico. Jon Barela, CEO of the Borderplex Alliance, says hes optimistic the accord will help bolster the Borderplex regions position as the fourth-largest manufacturing hub in North America, and continue the positive economic trends of low unemployment and regional economic growth. Most key provisions of the new deal wont take effect until 2020, and the pact is subject to approval by the legislative branch in all three countries. But its a strong affirmance of the bond between the three neighbors. One of Trumps key campaign promises was to rewrite what he called horrible and unfair trade deals that sucked jobs and money out of the U.S. NAFTA was a poster child for that rhetoric. Make no mistake, overstated or not, it played well in states like Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. And make no mistake. This is one promise Trump delivered on. This isnt Trumps only success on trade. The president and South Korean President Moon Jae-in signed a new agreement in New York last week on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly one that among other improvements significantly increases the number of cars U.S. automakers can sell there. Better yet, it heads off a tit-for-tat tariff fight with a crucial trading partner and strategic ally. Meanwhile, Trumps announced tariffs with the European Union are on hold pending talks slated for later this year. And just last week, Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced an agreement to start bilateral trade talks. The U.S. trade dispute with China continues to ratchet up, but Beijing cannot help but take notice of these crucial developments with key economic powers. Give the president his due. Like him or not, this is a victory for his administration, the North American economy, and for American business and workers. This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers. CLOVIS In an agreement quietly discussed last month and reached on paper Tuesday, Nathaniel Jouett pleaded guilty to 30 felony charges leveled against him for the deadly mass shooting at the Clovis-Carver Public Library. Jouett, 17, was previously scheduled to be tried as an adult next year in a monthlong trial in Roswell. Instead, defense attorney Stephen Taylor proposed last month the plea agreement, which bypasses a lengthy trial, but maintains an effort to see that Jouett be considered for an amenability hearing prior to sentencing. Punishment is far from settled, however. Jouett could face up to two life terms in prison plus 96 years; the minimum punishment would be probation. The then-16 year-old was arrested Aug. 28, 2017, after he opened fire in the library across from the Curry County Courthouse, killing two librarians Krissie Carter and Wanda Walters and injuring four other individuals, including a young boy and a circulation assistant. Jouett still faces a sentence ranging from probation to multiple terms of life in prison; its as if he proceeded with the trial in March and was convicted on all counts (including two first-degree murder charges), but without the additional time, expense and turmoil of those weeks in Chaves County. I was initially surprised, but I was happy to know that Mr. Jouett was actually taking responsibility for what he had done, not putting the victims through a trial, District Attorney Andrea Reeb said on Tuesday. That obviously is a huge step and it costs a lot of money, and it costs a lot of travel time and heartache for everybody involved. I would commend him for that for sure. Im very happy that this part of it can be set aside now and we can move forward to getting some type of resolution for victims and families. Theres still quite a process ahead; Reeb signed the plea agreement Tuesday and it needs to be formalized in a plea setting later this month. In mid-November, 5th Judicial District Judge James Hudson will hear a motion from Taylor challenging the states serious youthful offender statute in the hope of having Jouett qualify for a subsequent hearing to be considered for treatment rather than lengthy incarceration. Mr. Taylor is challenging the constitutionality of that statute, but if he were to change the statute, he would be changing what the current law is in New Mexico, Reeb said. So, yes, Judge Hudson could, I guess, make new law. Thats been attempted and tried I think around the state. As it is, an offender age 15, 16 or 17 found guilty of first-degree murder does not qualify for an amenability hearing, which would determine if he could be treated through his early 20s in the states Children, Youth and Families Department. Another way to put it would be to say that the request that the defense is making is one that we think would not violate the equal protection rights of Nathaniel, Taylor told The News. A 16-year-old is much more like a 14-year-old than like an adult (in terms of development) . Our hope is that the court will take a look at this question and undertake a serious review of the law and make a decision that balances the interests. Thats one fork in the path unfolding the next several months; another is that the court denies Taylors motion and it proceeds to a sentencing hearing expected to last weeks, with impact statements from 30 or more victims, as well as mental health experts. Those dates are subject to court availability, but are expected to take at least one or two weeks; Reeb said its possible the next opening might not be until the period in March previously allocated for a jury trial. The realm of punishments Jouett faces are the same, Reeb said, and they occupy a wide range. Because hes under the age of 18, (Jouett) faces anything from probation up to two life sentences for the murders, plus 96 years on top of that for the other charges, she said. So basically all ranges and sentences are open to the judge. He doesnt have the mandatory life sentences. Reeb said she would sit down with victims before venturing a concrete recommendation as to sentencing, but expected a large request. It goes without saying that taking the lives of somebody should be met with a life sentence for each, she said. I think the state will probably be asking for a pretty lengthy sentence. Taylor said he wants what is fair for his client, who himself was now trying to do what is right. Our goal is to see that Nathaniel gets treated fairly and that he has a shot at some form of treatment, because he desperately needs it, Taylor said. Its something that Nathaniels doing not only for himself, but also for the victims, the many victims, the many people that have been impacted in the Clovis community. Nathaniel wants to do it and it is all that he can do to try to make things better for the victims and to try to do the right thing. SANTA FE State Rep. Larry Larranaga a leading voice on budget legislation quietly ended nearly 24 years of service in the Legislature this week. Larranaga, an Albuquerque Republican, submitted his resignation letter to the Secretary of States Office on Monday, about three months before the end of his term. He had already announced his plans to forgo a re-election campaign citing family health matters and the state GOP replaced him on the ballot. Larranaga, a former Cabinet secretary who won election to the House in 1994, is a former chairman of the influential House Appropriations and Finance Committee. He won approval in 2017 for legislation that created a rainy day fund, into which the state deposits extra money when the economy is strong. The goal is to help smooth out the boom and bust nature of New Mexicos budget cycle, with revenue that fluctuates wildly depending on oil production. Competing to fill Larranagas open seat in the Nov. 6 election are Republican Robert Godshall, a retired federal immigration officer, and Bill Pratt, a retired physician. TAX RETURNS: October is turning into tax season. Republican congressional candidate Janice Arnold-Jones released her state and federal tax returns on Tuesday as a show of transparency, and Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Pearce has said hell release his later this month. Democratic gubernatorial candidate Michelle Lujan Grisham already released her returns earlier this summer. Arnold-Jones, whos running in the 1st Congressional District, released the 2017 returns she filed with her husband, John L. Jones, a candidate for the state House. Transparency should not be just another talking point, Arnold-Jones said. Their federal return shows an adjusted gross income of more than $180,000 from wages, pensions or annuities, and other sources. TV interviews: KNME-TV and New Mexico PBS, Channel 5, will be airing one-on-one interviews this month with candidates for governor, senate and Congress. The gubernatorial candidates will start the series, with interviews at 6 p.m. Sunday. Register to vote: New Mexico has about 1.25 million registered voters, and it isnt too late to make yourself one of them. Visit NMvote.org by Tuesday next week to register or update your registration in time for the general election. Dan McKay: dmckay@abqjournal.com Copyright 2018 Albuquerque Journal Contrary to the not in my backyard message delivered by most residents attending recent town hall meetings on possible sites for a tiny homes village for homeless people, the Albuquerque Indian Center is laying out the welcome mat to its backyard. Literally. The Albuquerque Indian Center at 105 Texas SE has reached out to the county to offer the 1.38-acre vacant lot behind their building as a location for the village of up to 30 tiny homes, District 1 County Commissioner Debbie OMalley confirmed Tuesday. We went to go see it and talked with them, and thought this would be a very good fit, she said. Its a weeded lot and idle space, so its not being used to its full potential. This would be a vast improvement for the area. While the county has $2 million for the project from a general obligation bond that county voters approved in November 2016, locating at the Albuquerque Indian Center can ultimately save a lot of money, OMalley said. Instead of having to buy a parcel of land, the AIC will offer a long-term lease, and would be contracted to provide management and operations services. Savings on infrastructure would be realized because the property already has water, sewer and other utilities. The AIC building has bathrooms, a commercial kitchen already serving breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday to about 200 people, and more importantly a host of services. These include mail collection for clients, and employment assistance, behavioral health, DWI and substance abuse counseling, said AIC executive director Mary Garcia. The majority of the clientele at the AIC is Native American, but not exclusively. And residence at the tiny home village will be open to anyone who qualifies. Homeless adults selected for the tiny homes village have to be in some kind of program and on the path to self-sufficiency to qualify for the temporary housing, Garcia said. Further, AIC is just south of Central Avenue, a major bus arterial, which is one of the criteria for site location. The property is also south of Interstate 40 and east of Louisiana, where all but one of the original six sites considered are located, and where a large concentration of homeless people congregate. Weve been searching for a way to include housing for about five years, Garcia said, noting that at one point she suggested placing teepees on the property to be used as homeless shelters. The Indian Center board of directors wasnt too receptive to that idea, but they were extremely receptive to the concept of the tiny homes village, Garcia said. We believe it will be a great partnership with the county. We know its a pilot project, so we want it to work, and well take care of everything and make sure everything is done right. AIC also owns a small building across the street from its main site that could be used for a microenterprise or other activities to help teach skills and provide a revenue stream for the village, Garcia said. Of course, theres still a number of hurdles to overcome before any of this becomes a reality. For one thing, the AIC property is technically zoned for high-density residential usage, such as apartment buildings. Because the design of the tiny homes has them constructed on a chassis with wheels, the property will have to be rezoned for setting up recreational vehicles, something like a Kampgrounds of America site, OMalley said. Garcia said that City Councilor Pat Davis, in whose district AIC is located, has already submitted paperwork on behalf of AIC for that zoning ordinance change. The city has to sign off on zoning changes, while the county has to approve the lease, as well as a contract with AIC for management and operations, OMalley said. Neighbors and area church leaders generally support the project, both OMalley and Garcia said. In a statement, Joann Landry, the Trumbull Village Neighborhood Association president and pastor of Interfaith Bible Church, said she recently organized a meeting of faith leaders. We are excited that Trumbull neighborhood will have the first Tiny Home Village in Albuquerque. We are all committed to doing Gods work in reaching out to those who need our help. We know this is going to be a quality development in which we can all be proud, Landry said. Decisions also have to be made on what improvements might be required inside the AIC building, OMalley said. Even though there are restrooms and a kitchen inside the building, a site for communal restrooms and a kitchen for the village must be chosen. The plan still calls for the village to have lights, 24-hour security and be gated to prohibit access to people who dont have a reason to be there. One thing that came out of the series of town hall meetings was the opinion among many that the estimated $17,000 to $20,000 cost for each of the 116-square-foot homes was simply too expensive. OMalley said that the county was in talks with contractors who believe the insulated tiny homes, which will be wired for electricity, heating and cooling, can be built for less using different materials. Bernalillo County Commissioners OMalley and James Smith have taken the lead in moving the tiny homes village project forward on behalf of the county, while city Councilor Diane Gibson has been a strong proponent since its inception. The proposal to place the village at AIC is also supported by Albuquerque City Councilor Pat Davis, Bernalillo County Commissioner Maggie Hart Stebbins, and New Mexico State legislators Mimi Stewart and Debra M. Sarinana, all of whom represent the area. Homelessness is a big concern across Albuquerque and nowhere more than here in the International District, Hart Stebbins said. The neighborhoods and businesses here face that challenge every day and Im grateful to our community leaders who step up to offer their time, talent and resources to serve people in need. She added that the Albuquerque Indian Center has been stepping up for many years and I look forward to the partnership with them on the development of the first tiny homes village in Albuquerque. SOUTHAVEN, Miss. President Donald Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi by mocking a woman who has claimed she was sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago. The audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Christine Blasey Fords testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She testified that Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s, when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Fords allegations. How did you get home? I dont remember,' Trump said at the rally Tuesday in Southaven. How did you get there? I dont remember. Where is the place? I dont remember. How many years ago was it? I dont know. I dont know. I dont know.' Imitating Ford, he added, But I had one beer thats the only thing I remember. It marked the sharpest criticism by Trump of Ford since she came forward publicly with the allegation last month. He had previously called Ford a very credible witness. Fords lawyer Michael Bromwich called Trumps attack vicious, vile and soulless. Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? Bromwich tweeted. She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice. Arizona Republican Sen. Jeff Flake said Wednesday on NBC Today that mocking something this sensitive at a political rally is just not right. I wish he hadnt done it, Flake said. Its kind of appalling. Flake is a key GOP vote in the confirmation battle, and while he said last week he would vote to confirm Kavanaugh, he also called for an expanded FBI investigation that resulted in a one-week delay. Flake has not said how he will vote if the nomination comes up this week. The president was in Mississippi on Tuesday looking to use his influence to sway the outcome of a low-profile election that could tip the balance of the Senate. As Republicans fight headwinds ahead of the Nov. 6 midterm election, Trump sought to rally his supporters behind GOP Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, who was appointed to fill the seat of Republican Thad Cochran, who retired in April. She faces three candidates Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bernard Bartee in next months special election for the remainder of the two-year term. Shes always had my back, Trump said. Shes always had your back. And a vote for Cindy is a vote for me. But Trump spent much of the rally lamenting the treatment of Kavanaugh by Democrats, whose attacks, he said, had taken their toll on the judges family. A mans life is in tatters, he said. Of Democrats, he added, These are really evil people. He even raised questions about the drinking habits of Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy in an attempt to turn the tables on Democrats who have gone after Kavanaughs beer drinking. Trump told the crowd they should do an online search for Patrick Leahy slash drink. Leahys office didnt immediately return a message seeking comment Tuesday. Some Republicans and White House allies have suggested the allegations against Kavanaugh can be potent political fodder in the run-up to Nov. 6, animating GOP voters who have so far lacked the same motivation to head to the polls as their Democratic counterparts. Republican officials and the White House expect Hyde-Smiths race to go to a runoff under the states jungle election rules that force a showdown between the top two finishers if no candidate wins at least 50 percent of the vote on Election Day. With Republicans defending majorities in the House and Senate next month, officials cast Trumps visit as an attempt to get ahead of a potentially perilous situation. Officials said Trump is seeking to boost Hyde-Smith as close as possible to the 50 percent threshold and lend momentum for a possible runoff. Depending on how Republicans perform on Nov. 6, the eyes of the nation could fall on a Nov. 27 Mississippi runoff in what could become an expensive and high-profile race to determine control of the Senate. Your vote in this election will decide which party controls the United States Senate, Trump said. A vocal minority of the crowd Tuesday backed the other conservative in the race, McDaniel, a state senator, and booed Hyde-Smith when Trump introduced her. They launched into occasional chants of We want Chris. Earlier Tuesday, Trump told electrical contractors gathered in Philadelphia that his economic policies would translate into more jobs for their ranks as he highlighted a new trade deal among the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Were in the midst of a manufacturing renaissance something which nobody thought youd hear, Trump said in a speech to the National Electrical Contractors Association Convention a day after celebrating the new North American trade deal. In fact, North America already is a manufacturing powerhouse. The United States ranks No. 2 in the world behind China in manufacturing output. Mexico ranks 11th and Canada 13th, according to United Nations numbers pulled together by the Brookings Institution. Trump calls the new trade agreement USMCA, for U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Like YMCA or U.S. Marine Corps with an A at the end, he explained. He said he doesnt want to use the previous name, NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, which he contends cost American jobs and railed against during his 2016 presidential campaign. The new trade deal still must be approved by Congress. We are finally rebuilding our country, and we are doing it with American aluminum, American steel and with our great electrical contractors, he said. Trump said the strong economy means more jobs for our great electrical contractors. Before departing the White House, Trump tweeted, THE ONLY REASON TO VOTE FOR A DEMOCRAT IS IF YOURE TIRED OF WINNING! Copyright 2018 Albuquerque Journal Professionals in certain occupations could practice without a state license if they have consumer consent, under an executive order signed by Gov. Susana Martinez on Wednesday. The order, which does not apply to medical-related professions, aims to make it easier for New Mexicans to become licensed and find jobs, the governor said in a news release. The order also would streamline the process for professionals to transfer out-of-state licenses when they move to New Mexico, which would help military families, the governor said. The order would make it easier for people to enter the workforce or find new jobs by reducing artificial barriers to enter the workforce, such as testing, experience and education for entry-level positions, Martinez said. It also would reduce certain license and testing fees, while waiving those charges entirely for state residents who receive welfare benefits. The consumer choice provision says a person could practice without a state license as long as his or her employer informed prospective customers of the lack of a license, and the customer signed a statement acknowledging the disclosure, the order says. However, that provision does not apply to occupations for which state statute specifically requires a license. Martinez spokesman Ben Cloutier did not respond to a request for a list of those occupations, nor those that would fall under the provision. The order drew immediate praise for cutting back on state regulation but criticism among those who expressed concern for public health. Roxroy Reid, chairman of the New Mexico Board of Social Work Examiners, said that although state law will still require social workers to have a license, the choice provision gives permission to practice illegal social work. Youre basically setting loose a group of unqualified, untrained individuals to interact in the lives of people that could do harm, he said. The governors action was hailed by groups such as the Rio Grande Foundation and Americans for Prosperity-New Mexico, both of which said the changes would help more state residents find work. Gov. Martinezs executive order is one of the most significant occupational licensing reforms made by any state, ever, and one that would help break down barriers to opportunity for thousands of New Mexicans, said AFP-NM State Director Burly Cain. New Mexicans shouldnt need a government permission slip to find work and support their families or to purchase critical services and products as consumers. The change drew a thumbs-down from one well-known Albuquerque tattoo artist. Derek Toohey, of Factory Edge Tattoo, said its important for public health and for the tattoo artists reputation that those wielding tattoo needles are using sanitary equipment and are well-trained, as required for licensure. Anyone can pick up a tattoo machine and start tattooing folks and have no idea what theyre doing, he said. If someones operating out of their kitchen, you dont know where theyre getting their sterilization method from or whether they have proper equipment, as opposed to stepping into a shop where there are (sanitary) practices put into play. Its just like night and day. Other changes in the executive order include: Accepting professional experience as a substitute for a license when someone comes to New Mexico from a state that does not license the occupation unless it can be compellingly demonstrated that doing so would not adequately protect the public health or safety. Reducing fees to 75 percent of the national average or less. Making it easier for those with criminal histories to obtain licenses. Expanding acceptance of online continuing education credits. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. A former supervisory U.S. Border Patrol agent has pleaded guilty in New Mexico to a child pornography charge. Federal prosecutors say 46-year-old Jason Christopher Davis of Las Cruces could serve up to 15 years in prison under the plea agreement. Davis pleaded guilty Wednesday in an Albuquerque courtroom to production of a visual depiction of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. He will have to register as a sex offender. The ex-border agent was arrested in May on suspicion of receiving child pornography. Investigators say they found digital media with child pornography at his home. His sentencing has not yet been scheduled. Its no secret that Vince Gilligan created a world that resonates with an audience. As the co-creator of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, the Emmy Award winner has successfully embedded Albuquerque into the cultural lexicon. This is one of the reasons the Honors College at the University of New Mexico invited Gilligan to take part in a question-and-answer event at 7 p.m. Oct. 18. The event is free, open to the public and will be seated on a first-come, first-served basis. It will also be streamed on Facebook Live on the Honors College page. We came up with a whole list of people that were interesting, and we wanted individuals outside of the academic world, said Ryan A. Swanson, associate professor in the Honors College. Vince was at the top of our list. The theme for the series is New Mexico and we wanted to have a discussion about it. This event kicks off a year of programming for the UNM Honors College Carruthers Lecture Series. This years theme, My New Mexico, was selected to begin a multifaceted exploration of ideas and questions about New Mexico that can be examined together as a community in the upcoming year of Carruthers programming. The event is taking into account that a lot of people think of New Mexico through the lens of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, Swanson said. The point is to think about the relationship between our shows and community. The shows have brought a lot of opportunity to the community. Theyve also cast us as the meth capital of the U.S. We wanted to have a discussion about this. Swanson hopes the event will move the conversation forward of what Albuquerque is as a community, and the opportunities and the diversity of experiences within the city. The goal of the evening isnt to revel in the fandom of the series, he said. But to use them to see where the city and New Mexico is at. This is an ongoing conversation. The event is being co-sponsored by the Albuquerque Film Office. Mayor Tim Keller will also be part of the discussion. If you go WHAT: Breaking Bad ABQ&A: An Evening with Vince Gilligan WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 18WHERE: UNM Sub Ballroom B HOW MUCH: Free and open to the public. Seating on a first-come, first-served basis. Fintech major Zeta is all set to add to the festivities this year with multiple product offerings under its digitised gifting suite, Zeta Spotlight. This powerful, on-demand digital gifting solution will help corporates manage employee and channel gifting with ease. With the flexibility to choose from gift cards, e-cards and even brand vouchers of popular brands, the solution has something for every gifting need. As the festive season is around the corner, corporates spend considerable amount of time and resources on planning, procuring and distributing gifts to their employees. With Zeta Spotlight companies can send out gift cards and vouchers to their employees without any logistical hassles, pilferage and other complexities. Corporates can also send beautifully designed gift cards with personalised messages to their employees thereby adding a personal touch. 91% employees look forward to receiving gifts from their companies but only 54% of them receive gifts from their employers, according to a recent dipstick study of Zeta users. Many employees also pass on their gifts they receive from their company to others and 42% of them do it because they dont like or have a need for it. Gifts such as box of sweets, chocolates and dry fruits are voted as the least desirable gifts. However, they study also revealed that, 77% employees would like to get online gift cards and cash as gifts from their employers With Zeta Spotlight companies can pick from different kinds of gifting modules like physical or digital gift cards, cash or vouchers from leading brands such as Amazon, Flipkart, MakeMyTrip, Crossword, LifeStyle and more. Moreover, only on Zeta can companies can offer a bouquet of brand vouchers to employees and employees in turn can select the brand of their preference and shop away. The solution is fully digital and hence promises to be free of any logistics while ensuring last mile delivery with ease and delivery well in time. Detailed reports help to bring in transparency and easy administration ensuring zero pilferage. Zeta Spotlight is fully customisable, allowing corporates to set their own usage parameters such as validity period, mode of usage etc. The biggest USP of the solution is that a corporate can run multiple gifting & R&R programmes on one platform with each programme having its own set of rules. Talking about the platform Ramki Gaddipati, Co-founder and CTO, Zeta, said, The Corporate gifting market is estimated to be worth $.1.7 bn dollars and is growing at over 200% per annum. Traditional gift cards and vouchers have gained traction over the past few years but with growing smartphone usage in India and the evolving and savvy Indian customer, digital gifting is gathering steam. We are thrilled to be part of this growth story. Zeta spotlight has already witnessed 279 % growth over the last two years and as of today we are working with 1600 corporates and more than 2 lakh employees are on the platform. To an employee, these gifting solutions bring a separate set of advantages. With existing card-based and voucher-based solutions, employees are forced to spend them at one go or only at select outlets. Whereas Zeta Spotlight, gives employees the freedom of choice. They can decide the gifting options they want and can spend them at any card accepting outlet or use it to shop online as well. Known for its golden palm-lined beaches, emerald backwaters, tea plantations and powerful art forms, the state of Kerala provides diverse opportunities to rejuvenate travellers. However, Kerala has suffered a major setback in its tourism numbers due to the recent devastating monsoon floods. Considering a substantial segment of Keralas employment is generated from tourism, this sudden decline massively affected people whose livelihood depend on the sector. As a global leader in the travel category for over 100 years, Samsonite considers social responsibility as one of its essential, core principals. Samsonite has taken up the initiative to launch a campaign focusing on reviving tourism in Kerala. Having experienced, first-hand, Keralas warmth, hospitality and eagerness to welcome its guests back, Samsonite has incepted a campaign that tugs at the heartstrings of tourists around the globe to visit Kerala. Through this initiative, Samsonite endeavours to motivate more tourists to experience this beautiful state. After overcoming the adverse impacts of the calamity with courage and unity, Kerala is now open to welcome its much-awaited guests. As a part of the #KeralaIsOpen Campaign, the travel brand portrays the essence of Kerala through an impactful, short film. This beautifully rendered video captures the essence of every individual involved in the tourist sector from taxi drivers, lodge managers, elephant mahouts and others are eagerly waiting to welcome their guests. The campaigns mission is to remind travellers of the beauty of Kerala and to inspire them to come together and revive tourism in Kerala. Commenting on the initiative, Anushree Tainwala-Executive Director-Marketing, Samsonite South Asia said, Through this campaign,we hope more and more people travel to Kerala. We want people to recognise that the only thing more unique than Neelakurinji is the heart of the people in Kerala. So lets now embrace the spirit of the people and travel to Kerala because #KeralaIsOpen. P Bala Kiran. I.A.S., Director, Kerala Tourism, Government of Kerala, shared, Thanks to the support of all our brothers and sisters from all over India, Kerala has made it through the last few difficult months. Now that we are rebuilding, we need to revive our tourism industry as a quarter of our employment comes from it. I welcome the people of India and tourists all over the world to visit the beautiful city of Kerala and show their support and love for the people of Kerala. Its absolutely safe to travel to Kerala now and the loving people of Kerala are waiting for its beautiful tourists. #KeralaIsOpen Mindshare, a part of GroupM, was awarded the Agency of the year at 2 prestigious events on the evening of September 28,2018 - The MMA Smarties Awards 2018 and The Big Bang Awards. The agency has yet again proved its dominance by bagging a total of 46 awards including the coveted Agency of the Year at The MMA Smarties 2018, Media Agency of the Year & Digital Agency of the Year at The Big Bang Awards. Comprised of over 800 member companies globally and 14 regional offices, the MMA Smarties Awards is the only mobile trade association that brings together the full ecosystem of marketers, tech providers and sellers working collaboratively to shape the future. The MMA Smarties Awards is the worlds only global mobile marketing awards program honouring innovation, creativity, and success. The Big Bang Awards is the biggest event of Ad Club Bangalore, honouring excellence in Media and Communications. This was the 23rd edition of Big Bang Awards. Commenting on the glory, Prasanth Kumar, CEO, Mindshare South Asia, MENA & Africa said, These awards mean immense motivation for us and we see them as an appreciation for the efforts we put in driving excellence for our clients. We thank the Jury for putting loads of time to evaluate and recognize the work we are doing across our clients. Unilever awarded the Client of the Year at Big Bang Awards. Indian advertising professionals seem to be taking the world by storm. Close on the heels of the Pandey brothers becoming the first Asians ever to receive the Lion of St Mark Award (the highest honour at the Cannes International Festival of Creativity), we now hear of yet another Industry doyen breaking the proverbial glass ceiling. Srinivasan Swamy, Chairman of the R K SWAMY HANSA Group will take over as the Chairman and World President of the illustrious International Advertising Association (IAA), the first Indian ever to do so. Sundar, as he is called by his friends, will lead a team of 25 Executive Committee members from a host of countries including India, USA, UK, Austria, Italy, Poland, Ghana, UAE, Australia, Malaysia, Russia, Netherlands, Kuwait, Iran and Nepal. He takes over from the legendary advertising professional Felix Tataru from Romania on October 4, 2018 at a glittering function to be held in his honour at Bucharest. The International Advertising Association is an 80-year old institution and considered the most prestigious advertising body of its kind in the world. The IAA is acknowledged as the world's most influential network of marketing and communication leaders, aimed at representing the common interests of all the disciplines across the full spectrum of marketing communications - from advertisers to media companies to agencies to direct marketing firms, as well as individual practitioners. Its activities involve professional development of marketing communication practitioners, protecting freedom of commercial speech, advertising self-regulation, protecting consumer interest, training and education. With Gita Gopinath appointed as the Chief Economist of the International Monetary Fund, Nikki Haley as the United States Ambassador to the UN, the Pandey brothers and now Sundar Swamy, more and more Indians are making their mark on the world stage heralding definitely acche din for Indian professionals on the international arena. Lets hope the trend continues and our best wishes to Sundar Swamy. Following the recent appointment of Mullen Lintas' Mumbai office by the online pharmacy retail brand PharmEasy, the agency has conceived a multi-film campaign for the brand. For a category that promotes buying the colourful bitter pills, PharmEasy's maiden campaign feels like a fun-filled remedy with vibrant use of colours and music. The campaign thought focuses on the core of the service promise - ease of ordering with a healthy dose of saving on every order. Dr. Dhaval Shah, Co-founder, PharmEasy, said "We are very happy to work with the Mullen Lintas Team and the results are very exciting. They have taken our simple brief and created something beyond our expectations. Considering the agency's work portfolio, we are confident that the association, especially this campaign will ensure an effective brand strategy and communications and give us the desired growth." The film opens with a shot of a PharmEasy App user who looks visibly surprised with the FLAT 20% off on his medical bill. In the following shot, the user is shown fulfilling his long-awaited desire, something that he could spend on only by saving money on typically exorbitant medical bills. To complement this, the famous dance track of the 90s - Urvashi (composed by A R Rahman from the movie Kadhalan) adds to the memorability of the film. With a small tweak, the soundtrack conveys the message in a fun and quirky way - Take it easy PharmEasy. Also, it appears that the soundtrack will manage to attract a slightly older audience too. Commenting on the campaign, Amer Jaleel, Group Chairman and CCO, MullenLowe Lintas Group, said "Sometimes an idea is so, so tempting and obvious that you feel that it has to be wrong just because it comes so easy. We had such an idea on PharmEasy. The only reason why we went ahead with full conviction was that the strategy, the idea and the execution were so fused with one another that it became undeniable. Take it easy PharmEasy, can be an eternal tonality and idea for our brand. With apologies and respect to Prabhu Sir, we are unleashing our version of Dancing Uncles!" The campaign will be actively promoted online and offline. Credits Client : Dhaval Shah, Rajev Shukla, Saumil Parekh Agency : Creative: Amer Jaleel, Garima Khandelwal, Ripanka Kalita, Ashwin Joharapurkar, Shashank Salaskar, Chandni Dave Account Management: Virat Tandon, Priya Balan, Noopur Khandekar, Zeba Shaikh Planning: Ekta Relan Production: Early Man Films (Director: Abhinav Pratiman; Producer: Amarjeet Phukan) Tata Starbucks announced Navin Gurnaney will assume the role and responsibilities of the Chief Executive Officer, Tata Starbucks beginning January 1, 2019, when the current CEO, Sumitro Ghosh returns to U.S. for a role within the Starbucks organization. Under the leadership of Sumitro Ghosh, CEO, since January 2016, Tata Starbucks has accelerated its store growth and has elevated the unparalleled Starbucks Experience in stores. The Company has increased the level of partner (employee) engagement, set new Indian standards for gender equity in the workplace and was the first retailer to introduce a five-day work week across the country, further positioning Starbucks as an employer of choice in India and creating a foundation for success in India. Sumitro Ghosh has made countless contributions to Tata Starbucks growth and success by innovating the Partner (employee) experience and elevating customer service excellence in our stores over the past three years, said John Culver, group president, International, Channel Development and Global Coffee & Tea at Starbucks Coffee Company. We are pleased to welcome Navin Gurnaney, who has a proven track record of success within Starbucks and is a business leader with the ability to bring people together, as Tata Starbucks continues to innovate and position itself for long-term growth in the India market. Speaking on the announcement, Ajoy Misra, MD & CEO, Tata Global Beverages Limited said Sumitro has created a strong foundation for Tata Starbucks in India and Navin is the right person to build on the momentum we are seeing in the market. We are pleased to bring on a seasoned leader like Navin, who is focused on operations excellence, relevant innovation and developing high-performing teams, and look forward to continued brand and business growth for Tata Starbucks in India. Navin will be responsible for driving Tata Starbucks overall strategic direction and vision in India and further strengthening Starbucks business growth. Navin comes with deep experience in leading and managing businesses across several functions and industries in India, Europe and the U.S. With this role, Navin is returning to Starbucks after first joining in 2004 where he was a leader on U.S. business for eight years in Operations, Drive Thru Optimization and Partner Resources. Navin grew up in Mumbai and is excited to return to India from Atlanta, Georgia. Im honored to return to India as CEO of Tata Starbucks to continue building upon the incredible momentum the company has experienced in its first 6 years, said Navin Gurnaney. I look forward to elevating the mission and values of the company by delivering the iconic Starbucks Experience for our Indian partners and customers. The International Advertising Association (IAA) has announced the winners of the 2018 Inspire Awards, a group of distinguished awards that celebrate experienced champions, young professionals and distinguished veterans for their vision, achievement and committed service to the IAA and the marketing communications industry. Congratulating the winners of this years IAA Inspire Awards, IAA World President and Chairman, Felix Tataru, said, The IAA Inspire Awards pay tribute to our outstanding members for their many achievements and services to advance the IAA globally as well as to make a difference in the worldwide arena of marketing communications. They have contributed their leadership, vision and professional expertise and inspired the marketing communications community locally, regionally and globally in the true spirit of the IAA as the global compass of marketing communications. We are proud to recognise their accomplishments, commitment and services contributed to our industry. IAA Champion Award The IAA Inspire Champion Award honours notable leaders for their lifetime achievements, vision, committed services to IAA, as well as their contributions to advancing the IAA and communications in the global marketing communications industry. This years six recipients: Norkor Duah, Managing Director, Mullen Rowe Accra, Ghana Nabil Kazan, President/CEO, KPTV-MENA, UAE Maria Predoiu, Capabilities Leader P&G South East Europe, Romania Raymond So, Chairman, AFAA, Taipei Amanda Marano, Global Account Executive Officer, Washington Post, USA Raj Nayak, Chief Operating Officer, Viacom18 Media, India IAA Young Leader Award The IAA Inspire Young Leader Award recognises young professional members for their significant service as leaders in the IAA Young Professionals arena and for their dynamic contributions in the marketing communications industry. This years four recipients: Janak Sarda, Director, Deshoot Media Group, India Andrei Tiganas, CEO & Trainer, Tiganas Communication, Romania Vicki Chi-hsuan Chiu, Associate Professor, School of Communications, Ming Chuan University, Taipei Ivona Babarelu, Head of Marketing, Clever Tech, Romania Honorary Life Membership Award This years IAA Honorary Life Membership Award pays tribute to three venerable members from IAA Chapters in Bahrain, Romania and Sri Lanka, and celebrates their long and distinguished service to the IAA and their work as communication leaders. Recipients of the 2018 Honorary Life Membership Award: Khamis Al Muqla, President Gulf Marcom, Bahrain Mihail Vartosu, Founder IAA Romania Ranil de Silva, Founder IAA Sri Lanka IAA Chapter Excellence Award The IAA Chapter Excellence Award is presented to the IAA Chapter judged to have made the best overall contribution to achieving the aims and objectives of the IAA over the previous two years. Recipient of the 2016-2018 IAA Chapter Excellence Award: Romania Chapter (Chapter President: Maria Predoiu, Executive Director: Victor Dobre) IAA Young Professionals Chapter Excellence Award The IAA Young Professionals Chapter Excellence Award recognises the IAA YP Chapter judged to have made the most outstanding achievements in programs and activities to advance the aims and objectives of the IAA over the previous two years. Recipient of the 2016-2018 IAA YP Chapter Excellence Award: Romania Chapter (Chapter President: Iulia Nicolae) Recipients for each group were selected by separate judging panels chaired by Heather Leembruggen, IAA VP & Chairman IAA Inspire Awards. Nominations are reviewed and considered in light of various criteria, including career experience, significant contributions, IAA involvement, and advancing IAA locally and globally, among other specific categorical criteria. Commenting on the nominations and the winners of the IAA Inspire Awards, Leembruggen said, We were delighted with the calibre of the nominees and the spread of countries represented in the entries we received. It demonstrates that the global network we embrace is truly international in its scope and service to the industry, and also, importantly, that the IAA family is comprised of many high achievers and leaders in the marketing communications community. I congratulate all this years winners for their contributions and for bringing to life IAAs value proposition as the global compass of marketing communications. Would you like to receive breaking news notifications from The Post and Courier? Sign up to receive news and updates from this site directly to your desktop. Breaking News Columbia Breaking News Greenville Breaking News Myrtle Beach Breaking News Aiken Breaking News N Augusta Breaking News Click on the bell icon to manage your notifications at any time. Success! Please click the 'Allow' button in the 'Show Notifcations' alert in your browser if one is available. Thank you for signing up! Please enable notifications in your browser and reload the page. A lawsuit lodged against a National Nuclear Security Administration contracting officer has been voluntarily dismissed, according to court documents filed at the end of September. The now-null action first filed by CB&I Areva MOX Services mid-June in civil court alleged Lance Nyman, the contracting officer, abused his powers in relation to the Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility at the Savannah River Site. "From the outset, however, Nyman has displayed an irrational animosity towards MOX Services," the complaint, available via Aiken County court records, reads. "Nymans actions and conduct towards MOX Services reflect not only his animosity, but also his intent to cause MOX Services to incur substantial costs and damages." MOX Services is the team behind the MOX project. MOX is an under-construction facility designed to turn weapons-grade plutonium into nuclear fuel. The project is more than a decade in the making. NNSA chief reaffirms MOX cancellation efforts in letter to congressman On Sept. 14, NNSA chief Lisa Gordon-Hagerty no supporter of MOX herself wrote to U.S. Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, and reaffirmed Perry's The NNSA, a semiautonomous U.S. Department of Energy agency, oversees the project and administers the MOX development contract. The crux of MOX Services' lawsuit, according to the complaint, was Nyman's alleged "abuse of process under South Carolina law." "Instead, this action focuses on Nymans abuse of the" Contract Disputes Act "process by improperly issuing a purported final decision with an ulterior purpose," the complaint reads. "As a matter of law, Nyman acted outside the scope of his authority and office by issuing a purported final decision prior to MOX Services submission of a certified claim." MOX Services had, prior to dismissal, demanded a jury trial for the matter. The voluntary dismissal was filed by MOX Services' attorney, Derek Shoemake, on Sept. 27. The dismissal was tendered without prejudice against Nyman. As of Sept. 27, Nyman had not been served electronically, according to court records. Nyman remains an NNSA employee, according to a NNSA spokesperson who responded to inquiries submitted by the Aiken Standard. RAMALLAH, West Bank The Jordanian and Palestinian governments are ramping up their relations, planning to increase cooperation in trade, energy, agriculture and other areas. Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah met Sept. 17 in Jordan with his counterpart there, Omar al-Razzaz, and agreed to schedule a meeting of the Joint Higher Jordanian-Palestinian Committee early next year in Ramallah. The committee will strengthen and develop relations in various fields and continue coordination on issues of common concern, Hamdallah said, according to a statement issued by the government. The Joint Higher Jordanian-Palestinian Committee was established in the wake of the Oslo Accord in 1995. The group last met a year ago in Jordan, when Hani al-Mulki was that country's prime minister. According to the statement, Hamdallah said, An agreement has been reached to increase trade exchange between the two countries, establish a logistics area between Palestine and Jordan, and set up an agricultural marketing company" and perhaps joint ventures for providing services to people traveling for hajj and umrah, two of the five pillars of Islam. "An agreement has also been reached to increase the power supply from Jordan to Palestine and establish joint investments in industrial zones. Palestinian Minister of Agriculture Sufian Sultan, who attended the meeting between Hamdallah and Razzaz, told Al-Monitor that during the next few months, ministerial committees of both countries will conduct several bilateral meetings in the lead-up to the Joint Higher Jordanian-Palestinian Committee meeting. Beginning in October, the committees will discuss recent and previously implemented agreements and the means to expand future cooperation. The agriculture sector is one of the most important that the Joint Higher Jordanian-Palestinian Committee has focused on. According to Sultan, this is reflected by the number of agreements that aim to increase joint marketing. Also, Jordan has agreed to open its markets to Palestinian agricultural produce. On April 25, the agriculture ministries signed a memorandum of understanding to establish the Amman-based Palestinian-Jordanian Company for the Marketing of Horticultural Products with startup capital of $10 million from each government. Sultan pointed out that agricultural products account for 50% of the total volume of Palestinian exports. Such products include dates, medicinal herbs and olive oil and are exported to Jordan, the Arabian Gulf, the United States and Europe. Both countries want to speed up implementation of 22 agreements they have signed in recent years. These pacts cover agriculture, transport, culture, interior issues, social development, energy, economy, trade and investment, education, higher education and health. Zafer Melhem, head of the Palestinian Energy and Natural Resources Authority, told Al-Monitor the Palestinian and Jordanian energy authorities are seeking to expand the electricity grid between the two countries. They want to boost the power supply from Jordan to the city of Jericho from 12 to 36 megawatts in a bid to satisfy all the electricity needs of the Jericho governorate and possibly other areas. He pointed out that the two energy authorities always touch base on possible means of cooperation. This, he added, led to them forming technical and commercial committees to establish the best ways to cooperate, all the while exchanging experiences and holding training courses in Jordan. The countries currently are examining renewable energy projects. The governments have set several goals to be achieved through the joint high committee; chief among these is increasing the trade volume between Palestine and Jordan. Since the beginning of the year, the volume of trade exchange with Jordan has reached 266 million Jordanian dinars [$374.9 million]," Palestinian Minister of Labor Mamoun Abu Shahla told Al-Monitor. "We hope that by the end of the year this volume will have reached half a billion Jordanian dinars [$704.6 million]. He also noted "the need to coordinate our political positions in light of Jordans support for the Palestinian cause. Abu Shahla pointed out the importance of creating jobs. Also, he sees the need to learn from Jordan's social security experience and cooperate on how to deal with international organizations. The logistics area currently being built in Jordan's Shouneh area will become an artery for Palestinian exports to foreign markets. It will also provide Palestinians with an opportunity to import Jordanian and Arab products. Although these efforts to intensify cooperation come as the Palestinian Authority seeks to break away from economic relations with Israel, that's not likely to be achieved soon. This is especially true as far as foreign trade is concerned, as Israel controls the West Banks land crossings. According to a Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics survey released Sept. 24, Palestinian exports to Israel rose by 12.2% in July compared with June, and accounted for 90.7% of total Palestinian export value in July. Also in July, imports from Israel rose slightly, by 0.9%, compared with June, and accounted for 54.5% of the total value of Palestinian imports in July. The Jordanian and Palestinian governments efforts to promote and expand cooperation in trade and joint ventures will give Palestinians hope that they will have access, albeit only partial, to Arab and international markets, away from Israeli control. CAIRO Autumn in Egypt marks a time when the countrys budding documentary filmmakers showcase their work at local festivals and aspire to receive an award or two. On Sept. 4, the 14th edition of the renowned El Sakia Documentary Festival took place at El Sawy Culturewheel, a cultural center located on Zamalek island, Cairo. The winner of the top prize was Tranzeet, the graduation project of Dina Moharam and her colleagues. The award was partly due to its unusual and grim subject. The teams first work was a short film about four people facing death and the time they spent in their homes, clinics and hospitals. One of the subjects was Ahmed Khaled Tawfik, a well-known doctor and childrens book author who passed away in April. The interview he gave to Moharam's team was his last one. The documentary film industry is still developing in Egypt, Moharam told Al-Monitor. [Egypts] documentary filmmakers need to learn to simplify the idea and present it to the public in an exciting and interesting way to overcome the challenges they face, she said, adding that the production of documentaries may reach a wider audience, just like cinema and TV does, when the sector develops further. Unlike Tranzeet that was hugely intimate, most Egyptian documentaries like the runner-up at the same festival, Bayn al-Sourayn address historical or political issues. This documentary by Sameh Ibrahim tells the story of a slum neighborhood located at Bab-al Sharia in Old Cairo, showing its history and transition from a 12th-century-fortress to today's popular market that sells products at low prices. History and politics were also the main subjects of the documentaries shown at the Sawasiya Film Festival in Suez. Held on Sept. 14 for the first time, the festival showcased four documentaries on Suez governorate and three documentaries on Egyptian society in general. The winner Medhat Hassans 2017 Suez, Fortress of Resistance documents the resistance and courage of the residents of Suez city in the face of the British Mandate and the Suez War of 1956, as well as the Arab-Israeli wars in 1967 and in 1973. The second place went to Adel Fadels 2017 documentary Love Letter from a Burning Ancient Church, which narrates the history of the Good Shepherd Church in Giza, Cairo, and adjoining monastery that were built in 1865, at the same time as the Suez Canal. The church was closed in 2016 for restoration and is expected to reopen later this year. In Sawasiyas Egyptian themes category, the first prize went to Hesham Samirs Natural Resources of the Southern Red Sea (2017), which shows the resources of the area, including petroleum and natural gas, and touristic attractions. The second prize in this category went to Ahmed Habibs Worlds Finest Armies (2017), which is about the Egyptian armed forces war against terrorism in the Sinai Peninsula since 2013. The second edition of El Gouna Film Festival, which is known as an ambitious and high-profile festival, was held on Sept. 20-28. While the festival is also a platform for documentaries, the organizers selected only one Egyptian documentary for the festival, Dream Away, an Egyptian-German joint production. The film documents how tourism has evolved in Sharm el-Sheikh and the crises it has faced over the years. This film by Egyptian director Marouan Omara and German director Johanna Domke participated in August in the official competition of the 53rd edition of Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in the Czech Republic, and was also shown at the Venice Film Festival in 2017. "Dream Away" did not win any awards at these festivals. El Gounas best Arab documentary award went to Of Fathers and Sons (2017), a German-Syrian-Lebanese co-production directed by Talal Derki. According to Fawzi Yousef Ismail, an art critic specialized in documentary cinema, it is the lack of funding that makes Egyptian documentaries lag behind its international rivals and limit their awards to specialized documentary festivals at home, rather than international festivals. Documentary filmmakers usually start with a strong story, but given the high costs of equipment, travel and permits, they are often forced to change it in order to stick to a limited budget. When they turn to production companies for more funds, they usually get a negative answer because these companies know that there is little profit in documentary filmmaking, Ismail told Al-Monitor. An Egyptian documentary filmmaker who asked for anonymity agrees with Ismail. He told Al-Monitor that international TV channels such as Al Jazeera Documentary Channel and international institutions interested in documentary film production were the only outlets to sell documentaries; local cinemas and TV channels are just not interested. With the Egyptian state restricting foreign funding the national film production has decreased and local festival awards are the only means to obtain funds, most of which barely cover production costs. Others think that there is still hope for Egyptian documentaries. Mohamed Abdullah, the director of El Sakia Documentary Festival, told Al-Monitor that documentary film production is not in decline as some might think and limited funding is not the main obstacle, as many international festivals accept films shot on cellphone cameras. According to Abdullah, the main barrier is the red tape in obtaining permits to film at archaeological sites and in the streets. The documentary film industry would thrive if the state facilitates filming procedures, since Egypt is rich in historical, cultural and scenic landscapes, he concluded. The Iraqi embassy in Washington is working overtime to avoid getting caught up in the feud between the United States and Iran. Speaking to reporters at the embassy mere hours after Baghdad announced the election of a new president and appointment of a new prime minister, the spokesman for Iraqs Foreign Ministry took umbrage at Secretary of State Mike Pompeos decision to close the US consulate in Basra. The US is blaming Iran-backed militias for rocket attacks near the compound last month. Im not aware of the source of the information that Secretary Pompeo had regarding the Iranian role in the threats against the US consulate in Basra, Mahjoub told Al-Monitor. The United States might have wanted to send messages to regional powers after this withdrawal and we dont want to see these messages sent via Iraq. Why it matters: Baghdad cannot afford to cut ties with its powerful neighbor and trading partner despite pressure from the Donald Trump administration and hardliners in Congress. While Pompeo has congratulated President Barham Salih, Prime Minister-designate Adel Abdul Mahdi has already come under scrutiny from at least one Iran hardliner in Congress. The clear winner is Iran, Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., tweeted today, noting that Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps leader Qasem Soleimani personally brokered this deal. I find it very awkward that the comments started so fast, Mahjoub told Al-Monitor. I dont recognize how the reactions already started about a government that hasnt been formed yet. US vs Iran: Mahjoub stressed that the area is secure and that the Iranians have reopened their Basra consulate even after the original building was burned down by rioters. He also noted that last week Iraq asked the State Department to reconsider their decision to shutter the Basra consulate. An Iraqi delegation was also in Washington last week to press the Trump administration for a sanctions exemption that would allow Baghdad to continue energy imports from Iran after the US resumes sanctions next month. Mahjoub said two-thirds of Iraqi electricity comes from Iranian natural gas imports. Recent protests and unrest in Basra have been fueled in large part by electricity shortages. Whats next? The official US response to Mahdi, a compromise candidate between Shiite nationalist cleric Moqtada al-Sadrs Sairoon alliance and the Iran-backed Fatah coalition, remains to be seen. Meanwhile, Iran hardliners in Congress are pushing the Trump administration to sanction the Iran-backed militia Asaib Ahl al-Haq, which won 15 seats in the last election and has a shot at a junior cabinet position. Know more: Read Al-Monitors scoop on the negotiations in Lebanon that led to Mahdis appointment. And read congressional correspondent Bryant Harris coverage of congressional efforts to sanction Iran-backed Iraqi parliamentarians. - Bryant Harris By pulling out of a decades-old treaty of amity with Iran, the Donald Trump administration is sending a clear message to the rest of the world that it will not accept any challenge to its policy to counter Iran. The UNs top court ruled this morning that the US should lift sanctions on Iranian humanitarian goods. Within hours, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had announced the US was pulling out of the treaty that the Iranians used to bring their complaint to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This basically says, look, the US is serious about reimposing sanctions and international rulings, said Joel Rubin, a former deputy assistant secretary of state in the Barack Obama administration. And if the rulings go against us, were going to withdraw. The message is simple to the Europeans, Rubin told Al-Monitor. This is the policy, and the Trump administration isnt about to turn it around, regardless of what they do. National security adviser John Bolton made the same point at a White House press conference this afternoon. "Our European partners have chosen to remain in the Iran nuclear deal, Bolton said. But as I've said to them, it's like the six stages of grief. First you have denial, then you have anger, eventually you get to acceptance. Why it matters: The 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran, signed between the Dwight Eisenhower administration and the shah, established economic and consular relations with Iran. It served as the basis for Irans legal challenge at the ICJ, which found in favor of Iran regarding US sanctions that impact food, medicine and spare airplane parts. Pompeo called the ICJs decision a defeat for Iran, but said the UN court had overstepped its legal boundaries. Were disappointed that the court failed to recognize that it has no jurisdiction to issue any order relating to these sanctions measures with the United States, Pompeo said. He added that the US is doing its work on Iran to protect its own essential security interests. America First: The move fits Trumps America First approach to assert US sovereignty and abandon deals that dont meet US interests. The US administration also recently withdrew from the UN Human Rights Council and ended its contribution to the UN Palestinian refugee agency. This really has less to do with Iran and the Palestinians than with the continued consistent policy of the United States to reject the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice, which we believe is politicized and ineffective, Bolton said. Whats next: Hear that sound? The Trump administration is tearing up more treaties today. Bolton announced that the US was also withdrawing from an amendment to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations that Iran could use as the basis for another lawsuit. He said the US planned to review all international agreements that exposed the US to dispute resolutions in the ICJ. The United States will not sit idly by as baseless political claims are made against us, Bolton said. Know more: Follow Al-Monitors coverage from both Washington and Tehran as the US prepares to resume biting oil sanctions on Iran next month even as other parties try to salvage what they can of the moribund nuclear deal. - Jack Detsch Turkey is facing a new conundrum in Syria. While its main concern is the areas held by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), due to the latters links with the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), Turkey has had to prioritize Idlib because of the looming attack on the province, which could jeopardize Ankara's presence in northern Syria. Turkey's stated national security-related reasons for Operation Euphrates Shield in 2016-2017 were reasonable, but its present focus on Idlib is a hard sell especially to its Iranian and Russian partners on the Astana track. Lacking regional support and necessary leverage in Syria to pursue its objectives both in Idlib and in relation to the SDF, Turkey will likely be enmeshed in the former, disrupting its focus on its primary concern namely, the situation east of the Euphrates. The Sept. 17 Sochi agreement, which averted a looming operation in Idlib, is a temporary reprieve. To make it permanent, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has to fulfill Turkeys end of the deal: to help establish the agreed-upon demilitarized zone; disarm its allied groups; weed out terrorists; and, by the years end, open Idlibs highways to traffic. Forcing this on militant groups such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the Turkistan Islamic Party and the Guardians of Religion Organization the main forces in Idlib is a tough job. Iran, on the other hand, is prioritizing pushback against the United States east of the Euphrates. Tehrans objective is to restore the status quo in Idlib under Turkeys influence as well as northeastern Syria, where US forces are based. Reiterating Irans commitment to a unified Syria, President Hassan Rouhani said at the Sept. 7 Tehran summit, which gathered his Turkish and Russian counterparts, that we need to resolve the difficulty east of the Euphrates and force America out. Earlier this year, Ali Akbar Velayati, foreign policy adviser to Irans supreme leader, stated that the Axis [of Resistance]s forces will not allow the gradual lodgment of the US east of the Euphrates, adding that sooner or later, the Americans will be forced out. The unconfirmed reports about Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani having warned US commanders in Syria to leave also falls within the same logic. Against this backdrop, a strategic overhaul of Iranian-Turkish cooperation in Syria is not unprecedented. In 2016, Turkey shifted from its initial position of insisting on regime change in Damascus to a pragmatic issue-based engagement with Iran. This in turn encouraged a shift in Tehrans pushback against Ankara, leading to its engagement of Turkey in the Astana process. This first shift led to extensive political cooperation that affected developments on the ground. The second phase in Irans policy is now unfolding: to accommodate Turkeys strategic concerns in northern Syria. The first overhaul came as a result of Turkeys shift from a zero-sum regime-change policy in Syria as well as necessities on the ground and in the political process. The second shift is also driven by necessities on the ground. But it is yet to be seen whether Turkey will embark on it. Theoretically, Irans prioritization of the areas east of the Euphrates puts it on track to accommodate Turkeys strategic concerns in SDF-held territory. While Turkey perceives the Democratic Union Party (PYD) as a terrorist organization, Tehran sees the PYDs American patrons as the destabilizing actor. Generally, however, Iran and Turkeys goals intersect as they both focus on SDF-held territory. Therefore, it is likely that the two will work on the common ground that exists in northern Syria. Turkeys anti-PYD posture is useful for Iran to effectively push back against the United States. Likewise, to encounter the PYD, Turkey cannot shy away from confronting US policy in Syria and for that, it needs Iran and the Axis of Resistance, which can in effect ratchet up the pressure against the United States east of the Euphrates. On Sept. 24, national security adviser John Bolton stated that the United States is not going to leave [Syria] as long as Iranian troops are outside Iranian borders, adding that the latter includes Iranian proxies and militias. The consequence of such rhetoric is that Turkey cannot count on US support to contain the threat it perceives from the PYD. As such, the latest phase of Irans policy in Syria is premised on Turkeys shrinking choices in the north of the war-torn country. Ankaras fears of mounting Kurdish power in SDF-held areas are well understood in Tehran. The Iranians also know that mitigating the PYD threat holds higher priority than that of Idlib in Turkeys national security calculus. Thus, Irans support for Turkey in dealing with those concerns can only come after Idlibs reintegration with the rest of Syria. By setting this chronology, Iran is tackling a minor challenge to pave the way for a bigger one: the fate of the territory east of the Euphrates. In this equation, Turkey cannot continue its compartmentalized issue-based policy and reap Astanas dividends. In fact, Ankaras shrinking choices between Idlib and east of the Euphrates indicate the challenging practicalities of its issue-based approach. It will, therefore, have to choose to either work with the United States, which is at odds with anxieties about the Kurdish threat as well as its engagement with the Astana track, or to keep working within the Astana trio which puts it in a hard place vs. the US east of the Euphrates. The Sochi agreement, at first glimpse, suggests Turkeys redirection in Idlib. But this can also be a time-buying maneuver. A week after concluding the agreement with his Russian counterpart on Sept. 17, President Erdogan said, Turkey will take action east of the Euphrates River in Syria and impose secure zones as it has done in the northwest of the country. This cant be more welcomed by Tehran. But there are major differences between Idlib and east of the Euphrates, where US forces are based. Erdogan has raised his voice on the situation east of the Euphrates after the Sochi agreement, while two weeks earlier in Tehran he was only extremely annoyed with the US policy there. This could be an effort to outsmart Iran and its allies on Idlib by having them back Turkish policy there for a hollow promise of Turkey joining hands with the Axis of Resistance east of the Euphrates. The Axis of Resistances work with Turkey, however, can only materialize in accordance with the Sochi agreement. After all, Iran, Syria and Hezbollah have all endorsed the Sochi accord to give Turkey more time to resolve the standoff over Idlib peacefully. This, by no means, can be interpreted as their acceptance of a continued Turkish presence and opposition control of Idlib. To reiterate this point, Iran will keep reminding Ankara that the status quo in Idlib is unsustainable and that Turkish de-escalation outposts there are part of a consensual decision in the Astana process and, as such, will lose their basic value if Turkey reneges on its commitments. This can well evolve into a military confrontation to force out militant groups and Turkish outposts in and around Idlib for which the Axis of Resistance is much more experienced. For now, however, Iran and the Axis of Resistance seem hopeful about joining hands with Turkey in northern Syria, provided that Turkey appreciates the linkage between Idlib and the fate of the territory east of the Euphrates. If it doesnt, then a costlier approach awaits both parties in northern Syria. The battle inside and outside the Iraqi parliament was fierce and bitter, but by the evening of Oct. 2, Barham Salih had managed to pull off one of the biggest electoral feats in recent Iraqi history by putting his faith in Iraqi parliamentarians to elect a new president. That night, the overwhelming majority of parliament members, 219 out of 329 total, voted to install Salih, a Kurd who believes in the territorial integrity of Iraq and who has vowed to work for all Iraqis. Since 2003, the Iraqi presidency has been reserved for a Kurd, the parliament speakership for a Sunni and the premiership for a Shiite. Although Salihs election has generally been welcomed among Iraqis, including the Kurds, his victory marked an escalation in tense relations between Iraq's two dominant Kurdish parties, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), already at odds over the governing of Iraqi Kurdistan and related socioeconomic issues. Earlier this year, Salih had split from the PUK to form the Coalition for Democracy and Justice, which adopted a platform based of fighting corruption and advocating government reform. He then abandoned the coalition and rejoined the PUK to become the partys nominee for the presidency in September. Having failed to convince the PUK to nominate him for the 2014 presidential race, Salih decided this time around to put his trust in the Iraqi parliament should he not succeed in securing the necessary support from the KDP's leader, Massoud Barzani, so he could run as the Kurds' consensus candidate. The Kurdish parties can nominate one or more candidates, but in the past, they had reached agreement and put forth a single nominee. This year, however, they could not settle on one candidate. On Oct. 2, after realizing the race would be decided in Salih's favor, Barzani ordered his preferred candidate, Fouad Hussein, to withdraw from the race and for the KDP parliamentarians not to take part in the second round of voting, which would seal Salihs victory. Parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi, however, rejected the KDP bloc's request to withdraw Hussein's name, resulting in the parliamentarians present casting 219 votes for Salih and 22 for Hussein, with 30 votes deemed invalid. Iraq desperately needed someone like Jalal Talabani to keep the balance between various religious and ethnic groups in Iraq, Mohammed Bakhtiar, a Salih aide told Al-Monitor, referring to the late Kurdish president known for his negotiating skills. Barham Salih does not distinguish between the importance of the security of Baghdad and Sulaimaniyah and sees both cities as one. The parliament proved that it is genuinely a representative body of the Iraqi people. Iraqi parliamentarians have typically followed the instructions of their leadership to vote for a particular candidate. This has not, however, been the case in some recent votes. What was striking for me was that around 70 MPs voted independently of their leaderships instructions, Sarkawt Shams, a member of parliament from the New Generation, told Al-Monitor in reference to the Sept. 16 elections for the second deputy speaker of the parliament. An independent streak was also a factor in Salih's election. Regarding this development, Renad Mansour, a Chatham House expert on Iraq, remarked to Al-Monitor, It is the first time that the selection of the president came down to a vote in the parliament, and the new MPs were able to go beyond the traditional horse trading and backroom deals. Despite Iraqis generally welcoming the new president's election, it immediately reignited tension on the streets of Iraqi Kurdistan, as the KDP accused the PUK of abrogating an agreement on a consensus candidate and of backstabbing the party. A senior PUK source speaking to Al-Monitor on the condition of anonymity denied that an agreement had been reached. If there was indeed an agreement, it appears that PUK officials may have been buying time by initially agreeing on a deal. By doing so, they could move to round up votes in the parliament while leaving the KDP to think that there was no need to reach backroom agreements to vote against Salih. Before the election, Barzani released a statement rejecting the Iraqi parliament accepting more than one presidential nominee, emphasizing that a single nominee, based on a consensus among the Kurdish parties, should be put forward. To no one's surprise, the United States and Iran were involved in behind-the-scenes machinations in the election of the Iraqi president and therefore ultimately the prime minister. Al-Monitor learned they both supported Salih and Abdul Mahdi for the presidency and the premiership, respectively. Despite the various requests to withdraw, according to a source close to Salih, Salih insisted on allowing the parliament to determine the outcome. Shortly before the parliamentary session was scheduled to begin, the KDP announced that a deal had been reached for Hussein to be elected in return for several sovereign ministries and positions to go to the PUK. Salih refused to budge. His aide Mohammed Bakhtiar tweeted, The news about Dr. Barham withdrawing from the race has no basis. We are in parliament and are waiting for a democratic process to start so the representative of the people choose their qualified person. Soon after the election, however, both Iran and the United States welcomed Salih's appointment. For close to two years, Salih had worked to improve his relations with the Iranians, who wield unparalleled influence in Iraqi affairs. With the election won, Salih asked the independent Adel Abdul Mahdi to form a government. How long that takes will depend on how quickly ministries and positions can be distributed among the two main Shiite blocs, the Reform and Bina coalitions, and others who had supported Salih. According to Mansour, Salih having asked Abdul Mahdi to form a government immediately after being sworn in shows that there had been an agreement beforehand among the main Shiite blocs and Salih. While the new president has a close relationship with the prime minister-designate, which makes working together easier for them, the struggle ahead is daunting. Salih and Abdul Mahdi, both considered close to the Americans as well as the Iranians, will soon have to deal with internal and external challenges, in particular the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Violent demonstrations along the border fence with Israel in recent days took yet another heavy toll on residents of the Gaza Strip. On Sept. 29, Israel troops fired at thousands of protesters who massed along the fence, killing seven Palestinians among them a 12-year-old boy. Palestinians hurled a large number of grenades and other explosive devices at Israeli soldiers. Israeli and international media reporting on such incidents generally focus on the number of Palestinian casualties, on assessments by senior defense officials regarding Hamas motives in increasing the frequency of the anti-Israel demonstrations, and according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson on the number of protesters who heeded Hamas' calls to clash with Israeli troops at the border fence. Those following the weekly events in Gaza since the US Embassy moved from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in mid-May might think that all 2 million Gaza Strip residents had mobilized for the campaign against Israel. Hamas' leadership has reinforced this impression by pitching the demonstrations as popular protests and appearing to focus international public opinion with great success on events in Gaza and on Israels 11-year siege of the enclave. However, virtually all Israeli and international media outlets were unaware of other protests in recent weeks that were generated by opponents of Gazas Hamas rulers. One of the main reasons for this lack of publication is that Palestinian media in the Strip does not dare publish the banned things to which almost every Gaza resident has been exposed in recent weeks. What are these banned things? They are the underground activities taking place alongside the public protests against Israel while residents openly and almost fearlessly express themselves against Hamas. They are protesting against the terrible reality imposed on them by Hamas since it took control of Gaza by force in 2007. Al-Monitor has learned that dozens of Palestinians demonstrated in recent weeks in the Khan Yunis refugee camp and the adjacent Abasan neighborhood. They called on Hamas to take care of its people or disappear a few waved signs against what they termed Gazas dictatorial regime. Similar protests took place some two weeks ago in the Shabura camp in the southern Gaza town of Rafah and in the northern Gaza refugee camp Jabalia. Some protests turned into altercations between Hamas supporters and protesters. The latter claimed Gazas rulers had taken the Strip back to the Middle Ages; supporters accused the demonstrators of treason and aiding the Zionist enemy. Tensions between Hamas supporters and opponents have intensified following the US decision announced Sept. 1 to stop funding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and uncertainty over the future of the organization that provides food and schooling for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. Protests against the aid agency erupted around UNRWA compounds in southern and northern Gaza, and threats were made against the lives of senior agency officials. Mass clashes broke out between Hamas supporters and opponents over who was responsible for this state of affairs. The demonstrators accused leading Hamas officials and activists of corruption and of favoring the core of their supporters over the general population most of which is unemployed and demoralized from counting its unbelievable number of dead and injured every week. The scope of these protests is small, but they echo the January 2017 protests over the power blackouts crisis in the Gaza Strip, which were violently suppressed at the time by Hamas security forces. A Khan Yunis resident told Al-Monitor Oct. 2 that the protests in the southern refugee camp began about a month ago. At first, dozens of Palestinians held a spontaneous protest after Friday prayers, parallel to the weekly demonstrations along the fence with Israel. The number of protesters grew to several hundred in the ensuing days. The barrier of fear has been shattered; we are going to die in any case, so what does it matter if we die of hunger or war or as a result of shooting or blows by Hamas? the Palestinian asked, speaking on condition of anonymity. The protesters, he said, are not a small group of dissatisfied residents; rather, they are the majority of the refugee camp denizens who feel Hamas has brought them to the brink. Sadly, he adds, not everyone is willing to take a risk by demonstrating. If there had been more [protesters] like there were in Egypt, we would have more confidence against them [Hamas]. What will they do? Shoot us all? Hamas knows that eventually many others will join the protests because people will realize that even though theyre still afraid, they have no choice. Hunger will force them to get up and demonstrate. All is lost, life is ending and we are dying. He repeated the word dying many times during the conversation. When I asked to speak with other Khan Yunis residents, the man put me in touch with his neighbor at the camp, who then agreed to be identified only by the letter "Y". Y is 30 years old and the father of five young children; the youngest of them is 2 years old. They [Hamas] take care of their own people who are given work and food and gifts, he told Al-Monitor. They even share electricity generators among themselves while the people are being crushed by the terrible burden. We were supporters of Fatah [the larger rival Palestinian movement], but today there is no more Fatah [in Gaza] and there is nothing. There are only those in favor of Hamas and those who are against it. They send people to die while the commanders [Hamas leaders] enjoy power supplies and luxuries. As far as they are concerned, anyone who opposes them can die. The people have had enough. Y says Hamas security forces did not intervene in the protests at the camp, but Hamas supporters swore at the protesters and accused them of treason and support for the Zionists, in his words. Each of the families has at least one son who works for Hamas and gets paid by Hamas, he says. They guard their jobs and thats what they care about protecting themselves. The conversations with the camp residents took place on Facebook where they say they feel safer to speak. Asked why they were afraid to speak by phone with a journalist but were not afraid to protest and issue public calls against Hamas, they answered that speaking with a Jewish journalist could be considered an act of treason or espionage both punishable by death. An Israeli security source speaking on condition of anonymity confirmed that pockets of popular resistance against the Hamas leadership had developed in recent weeks. The economic pressure, lack of hope of conciliation with Fatah and especially the large number of Palestinian casualties on the border have generated opposition among the weakest groups in Gaza those living in the refugee camps. According to his assessment, this burgeoning protest is unlikely to develop into a mass insurrection that will bring down Hamas. The Palestinians in Gaza are tired, exhausted and hungry. In Egypt, the army protected residents. In Gaza, the Hamas army will not hesitate to use live fire against protesters. Gaza is not Egypt, and Palestine Square is not Tahrir Square. Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman is taking advantage of the nebulous American attitude toward the diplomatic process with the Palestinians to benefit his own election campaign. I dont know how to react to a plan I havent seen yet and that no one had put on the table yet. What I can say is that I believe in a Jewish State, he said during an Oct. 2 visit to the hills of the Givat Menachem neighborhood of the settlement of Karnei Shomron. He was responding to journalists who asked what he thought about President Donald Trumps statement, I like two-state solution. Trump made that statement on Sept. 26 at his meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during the UN General Assembly session in New York. It reignited a debate in Israel: Will Trump soon present his deal of the century and force a two-state solution on Netanyahu? The fact is that there is still no diplomatic plan on the table. There are only dribbles and leaks from the White House and generic statements by Trump and his team that a plan will soon be presented to the public. The Israeli right, including Liberman, is left with very convenient political and media spheres to operate in. Its members can take advantage of this situation to benefit their respective campaigns in the next election cycle. If there really were an official American peace plan based on a two-state solution, coalition partners on the right would have to answer to their voters as to why they continue sitting in a supposedly right-wing government that is collaborating in the partition of the country. That is why, when Trump makes general statements like telling Netanyahu, Israel will have to do something that will be good for the other side, or I like two-state solution. Yeah. Thats that's what I think thats what I think works best, and then adds that he wants to reach a deal between Israel and the Palestinians during his first term in office, he is serving the interests of Netanyahu and the other leaders of the Israeli right, whether he knows it or not. Netanyahu is an old fox when it comes to political maneuvering of this sort. In an interview with CNN on Sept. 29, he was asked whether he could say no to Trump. He responded that he was "certainly going to look at it and look at it with a with a keen and open mind. I always said that I'm willing to look at peace proposals put forward by the United States." There was good reason that Liberman went on his West Bank tour as soon as the Sukkot holiday was over, on the day that officially marks Israels return to routine after a long holiday season. It was more than just a visit by the defense minister to areas that are particularly sensitive from a security perspective. Liberman was also there as the head of Yisrael Beitenu, a right-wing party with no future, at least according to the polls, and that is therefore fighting for every vote from the right. Like all other players in the political arena, Liberman believes that there is a good chance that the next election will be moved up to early 2019. This is also why Liberman is now making every effort to point out how construction in the settlements has been gaining momentum. Pointing to the new homes under construction in the Neve Menachem neighborhood, he turned to the journalists accompanying him and said, Can you see how construction has been gaining momentum? In this neighborhood alone, we approved the construction of 220 units last year. This neighborhood, which is now home to 260 families, will have at least 700 families next year. I think that even with all the talk, it is important to pay attention to what is actually being done. He claimed that there are about 1,000 housing units currently under construction in the West Bank and another 11,000 units in various planning stages, as well as roads getting built and other projects being completed after being on hold for years. Liberman also fired off a carefully planned barb at HaBayit HaYehudi's chairman, Education Minister Naftali Bennett, who has been accusing him over the last few days of having leftist tendencies and of being responsible for a failed strategy in Gaza. I would suggest to all the big talkers, including those who live in [the Tel Avivian suburb of] Raanana, and one resident of Raanana in particular, to come here and see what doing is all about and what the difference is between doing and talking, said Liberman. Bennett lives in the town of Raanana. Liberman also noted that unlike Bennett, he lives in the settlement of Nokdim in the Judean Desert. Liberman is not the kind of person who speaks off the cuff. He is a man of methodical planning. For years, he was careful to work closely with the American Jewish election consultant Arthur Finkelstein, who died about a year ago. Finkelstein was thought to have the ability to translate in-depth polling of Israeli society, particularly of the Israeli right, into a precise electoral strategy. Once a year, Finkelstein would conduct a vast, in-depth study for Yisrael Beitenu, assessing changes in voting patterns. He would then use his findings to prepare a political strategy that fit Liberman perfectly: Should he turn sharply to the right or shift slightly toward the center? Libermans statements, his partys proposed legislation and even the political rivals he picked were always based on Finkelsteins findings. Now, even though Finkelstein is gone, Liberman is continuing to base his actions on the polls (or as he likes to call them, the research). His West Bank visit is a clear indication of the direction that Liberman plans to take in the next election. Unlike the 2015 election, in which he tried at first to shift toward the diplomatic center by criticizing Netanyahus status quo, he is now putting everything he has into an appeal to the right. Ultimately, this means that his main battle will be against Bennett, and it will be impassioned and ugly. Liberman will try to prove that he is more pragmatic and experienced and that he is closer to the settlers. In practice, Liberman will take advantage of every situation and development and harness them to benefit his overall strategy. The Americans lack of specifics about Trumps peace plan and the reasonable possibility that by the time some plan any plan is finally put on the table, Israel will already be in the midst of an election campaign, are the kind of raw material that the defense minister can use to his advantage. He can point freely to the growing momentum of construction in the settlements and take credit for it without worrying that the White House will react aggressively, as it would during the Barack Obama administration. In fact, the current administration may even embrace it. RAMALLAH, West Bank 2018 has been a big year for Palestinian literature, with Palestinian-Jordanian author Ibrahim Nasrallahs winning of the Arab world's top literary prize, the International Prize for Arabic Fiction, for his dystopian novel The Second War of the Dog. In September, Palestinian literature celebrated another victory as the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) selected the novel Ana wa-sadiqi wa-al-himar (Me, My Friend and The Donkey) by Palestinian author Mahmoud Shukair for its 2018 honor list of the top 100 childrens novels around the world. The selection was announced after the IBBYs 36th international congress held in Athens, Greece, in the beginning of September. Shukair is no first-time literary prize winner. In 2011, he was awarded the Mahmoud Darwish Prize for Freedom of Expression. He was also short-listed for IPAF two years ago for his adult novel, Praise for the Women of the Family. Shukair is the author of 45 books, six television series and four plays, some of which have been translated into English, French, German, Chinese, Mongolian and Czech. The books of the Jerusalem-born author mostly center on Palestinians struggle with modernity, displacement, migration and other changes brought to their lives by the volatile political atmosphere in the Middle East. Me, My Friend and The Donkey is no different. It takes up the story of a Mohammad al-Salhout, a boy who transports wheat and barley on his donkey to make a living. But when his donkey is stolen, the boy leaves Palestine to go to the United States. The final chapter narrates his return to Jerusalem from Houston as a successful businessman who recalls with nostalgia both old Jerusalem and his donkey. The story is inspired by the real-life story of one of Shukairs childhood friends and although the take is realistic, the author plays with symbolism extensively. For example, the donkey theme recurs throughout the protagonists life in the poems of Mahmoud Darwish, the Day of the Donkey in Mexico and as the symbol of the Democratic Party in the United States. Shukair told Al-Monitor, The storyline reflects the childs journey in the world throughout different chapters as he ends up as a successful businessman in the US. The city of Jerusalem, where the author currently lives after spending time in Beirut, Amman and Prague, has a real presence in the adolescent novel as the author focuses on the citys young Arab population, their aspirations, their love for adventure and their sadness. Writing for this generation is tough because the writer must understand their outlook toward life, feelings, interests, weak spots and the limits of their understanding. So its necessary for the writer to study real children and adolescents, so he can speak their language, Shukair told Al-Monitor. Shukair explained to Al-Monitor that his story conveys the message that no matter how harsh and difficult reality is, obstacles cam be overcome and success achieved, but he that he tried to keep a light touch. The messages should not be like sermons, they should be indirect. Humor also helps to stir the interest of the reader makes the story more exciting and engaging, he said, adding, The messages are that we should learn from our negative experiences, hold on to our land and country, persevere, not give up if we get hurt, respect friendship, cooperate with our generation to produce ideas and new experiences and fight for good values to overcome evil. The Palestinian Ministry of Culture lauded the books international success. Shukairs fiction, which was voted among IBBYs best novels internationally, is a great achievement for Shukair, Palestine and all its artists, read its Sept. 11 statement. Expressing hope that the novel will be translated to other languages, it went on, It would also help bridge gaps between Palestinian culture and world cultures. The novel was first published in 2016 by the Tamer Institute for Community Education, a non-profit group founded in 1989 in Jerusalem to promote education and cultural appreciation among children and young people. The organization particularly supports childrens and young peoples literature by publishing authors like Shukair, Ahlam Basharat, Sonia Nimr, Anas Abu Rahma and Huda Al-Shawa. The organizations director, Renad Qubbaj, told Al-Monitor, The institute is keen to support authors with different styles and make their work available to children and young people. When asked about what distinguishes Shukairs work, Qubbaj said, The novel is very easy and enjoyable to read. With its web of adventures and humorous tone, it makes for exciting reading while indirectly educating. When the writer develops a character that forms a bond with the reader, the book becomes a success. Deborah Storey For AL.com After five days without power in North Alabama following the 2011 tornadoes, one man was inspired to invent what could be a revolutionary green power source that captures wind. Robert Yost was sitting on his deck in Huntsville with his wife during the outage. She looked at a fan spinning in the breeze and asked why you couldn't power a house that way. Yost whose 40 years of aerodynamics and manufacturing experience at GE, Boeing and Pratt & Whitney included designing jet engines wondered, too. He began studying wind turbines and invented a small "cube" that converts wind power to electricity. His Huntsville company, American Wind, is now manufacturing units for customers that include the U.S. government and distributors in Japan, Mexico and South Korea. American Wind's MicroCube, which measures 9-by-9-by-13 inches and weighs about 9 pounds, is designed more like a jet engine than a traditional wind turbine. American Wind's MicroCube is the building block for a system that captures wind to create energy. "He knew to optimally design a wind turbine, if you made the thing bigger and bigger you are getting more energy but you are increasing how much energy you lose," explained his son, Daniel Yost, company vice president of marketing. A bigger car takes more energy to move, for example. "He knew he had to make it small." The first prototype was too small. The device 3-D printed at Huntsville's Inergi Inc. was 4 inches wide and too tiny to work on. Tools wouldn't fit in it, Yost explained, so they made it bigger but not much. Design specifics are secret, of course, but basically MicroCube's generator captures 98 percent of wind energy vs. roughly 35 percent for a traditional generator. The units are quieter, too. The 3-D printed cube includes neodymium magnets, just under 4,000 feet of wire, 11 blades and special ducting in a portable unit marketed as safe for the environment and wildlife. "In 100 years no one has developed a generator like ours," Yost said. "It gives it a very unique ability and it's virtually frictionless. We actually have a statement from the patent office that calls it the first change in alternator design since (inventor Nikola) Tesla." The blades, framing and control boxes are made from a proprietary resin as strong as steel but remarkably light. AT2LAS, a patented non-corroding material manufactured by Advanced Aerospace Tooling of Huntsville, weighs 40 percent less than aluminum and 80 percent less than steel. Lighter is better for the MicroCube because the idea is to install them in groups on rooftops, trailers, power poles or cell phone towers, or as wind-capturing walls. Robert Grigsby is owner of Advance Aerospace Tooling and Advanced American Technologies of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and Huntsville. He predicts American Wind's wind-driven electric generator "will very likely be recognized as producing the greatest innovation to electrical power generation in the last century. "Given that the MicroCube is no larger than your average toaster and generates a nominal 1 kilowatt of electricity that can be stored on-board, American Wind brings the promise of renewable energy to all corners of the world," Grigsby said. American Wind's multi-blade cubes work together. The number required depends on power needs. A TriCube is three connected cubes. Fifty MicroCubes combine in a WindWall that "will create a vast amount of power," Yost said. The 10-foot-tall Advanced WindWall uses 100 MicroCubes to produce 100 kilowatts at maximum power. "We take a single cube, put it into a wall of cubes, even at low wind speeds we can still produced a significant amount of power," said inventor Robert Yost. "The power of many, as we like to call it, comes into effect." The Advanced WindWall is an advanced turbine system that contains 100 wind-capturing "cubes." "Traditional wind turbines rely on sweep area. It's all about how big it is," said Daniel Yost. The MicroCube generates power from breezes as subtle as 1.5 miles per hour "not a lot, but there's some," said Yost. "When we get up to 35 or 40 miles per hour we start to get near our peak of 1 kilowatt. We call that our optimal range." Big wind turbines work in the 15-40 mph range. MicroCubes are designed for wind up to 140 mph at least. The company tested the product to 140 in two wind tunnels and it didn't fail. A California test next year will subject it to 300 mph winds. Because of the frictionless design, high wind isn't expected to cause the unit to overheat and explode. "When Hurricane Florence came through there wasn't a wind speed our turbines couldn't handle," said Yost. "We need to know what the failure point is. We know in most everyday scenarios there's not a failure point, even in category 3 hurricanes. But what about a category 5 tornado? What's it going to do? We're going to test it for those winds. We don't anticipate it failing." Huntsville residents will be seeing WindWalls in use in the next few weeks. The first installation in the city will harness power from six Advanced WindWalls to power a section of a business. Yost can't disclose where yet but "you will see it when you drive every day." "Our product is so different a lot of people don't believe in it until they see it. People don't believe that it works until we take it to them and show them," he said. "We can produce a lot more power in a smaller space. It comes back to the original story. Robert designed this for himself. It's meant to use right at the point of use. Our motto is 'Power to the People.' We mean it very literally." For businesses on coastlines, for example, "instead of having to have a nuclear power plant 200 miles inland, where you have 200 miles of transmission loss, why not use those gale-force winds and put the power right there." Because a MicroCube starts working with just a light breeze it can be used in parts of the world where winds are variable like Alabama. The Southeast "has the worst wind speeds in the country," Yost said, and low cloud cover that can affect the efficiency of solar power. "Seventy percent of the United States sits right here in these wind speeds," he explained. "If you can't serve these wind speeds what's the point of putting them out? We can service the entire range of wind speeds from 1.5 to over, we say, 65." Complete redesign The small wind-capturing turbine is not a new concept. There's even a wind cube on the market. Most designs just change the blades. "They don't realize the generator is what's broke," said Yost. "It was the marrying them that's what's different. "It's the combination of all the different things that we did that creates that difference in our product," he said. The alternator and wind turbine design are patented. "It's not a single thing we did. It's multiple things we did." Robert Yost tilts traditional windmill power thinking on its head by changing not only size and materials but blade arrangement. "The way Robert developed these blades, they're affecting each other in a positive relationship," Daniel Yost said. "One blade is capturing the air on the front side, and on the back side it's reducing its pressure so we can put more blades in a smaller space." The company's marketing priority right now is commercial use. Residential sales will come later. Homes would need a smart controller, plus battery storage similar to solar systems. One microcube costs $2,850 and has an expected 30-year life span. Greater production volume should bring prices down, they say. The inventor plans to install them at his own house next year. An average home would need about 16 MicroCubes depending on the area. "My vision for this product is power for people that don't have it," said company president Robert Yost. "There are so many places here in the United States and around the globe that they can't afford to have electricity. You've got to produce it for cheaper. You've got to stay out of environmental hazards. There's not a single piece of material in our product that's environmentally hazardous." American Wind held a military exercise this summer where the Tricube charged a large battery bank. The oil industry is looking at the technology for offshore rigs. Another design called the Portable Energy Power Source, or PEPS, has been engineered to provide power anywhere in the world for military or post-disaster use. The 120-inch tall grid of cubes on a trailer rises 30 feet to capture wind. In parts of the world with "dirty power" high and low spikes the PEPS should even it out so it won't harm equipment. But what happens when the wind doesn't blow? "Nothing," said Daniel Yost. "A zero wind we don't see too often" in Alabama, but wind speed fluctuations are accounted for. Power can be stored in batteries or placed back into the grid and sold to the utility company. American Wind's 12 employees are building product for large orders coming in, said Yost. The minimum investment for individuals is $25,000. MicroCubes aren't capturing Alabama breezes yet at the company offices on Blake Bottom Road because the priority is to sell them. Robert Yost said it won't be long, though, before the little white boxes power American Wind's whole operation. "About 18 months from now this facility will be totally off the grid," he predicted. The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Peabody Energy Corp. has held discussions to buy Drummond International. Peabody, the largest coal producer in the U.S., last month announced it is buying Drummond Co.'s Shoal Creek metallurgical coal mine for $400 million. The mine, located on the Black Warrior River in central Alabama, serves Asian and European steel mills with high-vol A coking coal. The deal includes the mine, preparation plant and supporting assets, and excludes legacy liabilities other than reclamation. The Journal said it is unclear if the two will reach an agreement. The potential deal would involve Peabody acquiring 80 percent of Drummond International, Colombia's top coal exporter, leaving the remaining 20 percent in the hands of Japanese trading house Itochu Corp. The deal could be valued at between $4 billion and $4.5 billion. In 2011, Drummond Co. sold a 20 percent stake in its Colombia coal mining operations for more than $1.5 billion to Itochu Corp., one of Japan's largest resources and trading conglomerates. Earlier this year, Drummond Co. said it was exploring the possible sale of at least a portion of its Colombia operations. The Birmingham-based Drummond Co., a diversified energy producer in coal, oil and gas and foundry coke, last year exported 32.3 million tons of coal from Colombia, making it the largest thermal producer and exporter from the country. After I parked along the square across from the OId Courthouse Museum in the heart of the sleepy town of Monroeville, I got my camera out to take a picture of the cupola, with its clocks facing all four directions. Meanwhile, a man pulled up next to me in a red pickup truck. "Pretty building, isn't it?" he asked. It certainly is. Built in 1903 and 1904 and designed by Southern architect Andrew Bryan, the red brick courthouse operated until after a new one was built in 1963, according to a historical marker that stands outside. The design is "Romanesque with a Georgia influence," and once it had a twin sister, a courthouse in LaGrange, Ga., that was destroyed in a fire. Inside, visitors learn that the courthouse was once known as "Stallworth's folly," because the probate judge who commissioned it, Nicholas J. Stallworth, was blamed for spending too much money on it. "But we're glad he built it," a volunteer, Jean Singleton, tells me. Though no cases have been tried there in more than half a century, the courthouse still stands proudly at the center of the town of Monroeville, known for being home to two noted authors, Harper Lee and Truman Capote. Now housing the Old Courthouse Museum, the building celebrates the city's history and the brilliant contributions of those writers to the world beyond the little town whose streets they played on, just liked Scout, her brother Jem and their friend Dill in Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird." When I visited, I was warmly welcomed in the lobby by Jean, who has lived in Monroeville since the 1960s. She works one day a month at the museum, directing visitors to sign the guest book and place a pin in a world map that shows just how far people have come to Monroeville, which calls itself a literary Mecca. I signed the book right below the names of a pair of friends who'd just stopped in from California. They were touring civil rights sites in the South, Jean told me. She took me into the former office of the last probate judge to serve in the building, E.T. "Short" Millsap, whose rocking chair still stands where he used to enjoy watching the goings-on from his office window. She also showed me a room with a sign on the transom that reads "Edwin C. Page, Attorney at Law." After he died, Page's daughter devoted everything in the Conecuh County lawyer's office, from the law books and glass-fronted bookcases to the double-sided desk, Dictaphone and seersucker jacket hanging on a hat rack, to the museum. It's a place where Atticus Finch would have felt right at home as a lawyer in the 1930s. After my introduction to the downstairs area, which also includes a large gift shop called The Bird's Nest, I was on my own to explore the rest of the museum. I climbed one of two creaky sets of wooden steps (there's also an elevator) to the second floor. As I reached the first landing, through the window I spotted a mockingbird perched on the sign for the museum down below. I see mockingbirds every day at home in Mobile, but everything in this town where Harper Lee (known here by her first name, Nelle) was inspired to write "To Kill a Mockingbird" seems to take on added significance. Upstairs, a room on one side is dedicated to Lee, while the other focuses on Truman Capote. In the Harper Lee exhibit, a 55-minute film, "Mockingbird Summers: Visits with the Citizens of Monroeville," plays on a continuous loop. The 2006 film is slightly dated - after all, Harper Lee died a decade later, in 2016 - but it's informative and entertaining nonetheless. In the documentary, which is available for purchase in the gift shop, many Monroeville residents who knew Lee well tell stories about her. It's fun to hear them talk about how, after the book was published in 1960, everyone was trying to figure out who was who - but all the characters seemed to be composites drawn from the author's experiences and her own imagination. "To Kill a Mockingbird" "seemed to be a gift from God to the world," the Rev. Thomas Butts, a retired Methodist minister, says in the film. "It's touched the lives of millions of people... all over the world." The community, he says, was dedicated to preserving the author's privacy. One of my favorite "characters" in the documentary is the delightful then-Mayor Anne Farish, who served in that role for 16 years and died in 2010 at age 83. She tells a hilarious story about Gregory Peck's 1961 visit to Monroeville. A friend lured her out of her house one night in her "Muumuu" to go peek in the window at the Wee Diner, where he was eating with Lee. Farish reports that the actor was just as handsome in person as he was in the movies. The room features photos of Peck walking along the Monroeville streets with his new pal Lee. She also accompanied Henry Bumstead, who visited Monroeville from Hollywood to research the town and particularly the Monroe County courthouse, which would be the site of some of the movie's most pivotal scenes. He took measurements and photographs of the courthouse and used them to create an exact replica on a California sound stage. Peck won an Oscar for best actor for his performance as Atticus Finch, and Bumstead won an Oscar for art direction and set design. Just across the hall, another space is devoted to Lee's friend Truman Capote, who was born in New Orleans but grew up living with maternal aunts next door to the Lees. Their houses, which were located just a couple of blocks away on South Alabama Avenue, no longer exist - but a portion of the stone wall that surrounded Capote's childhood home remains, along with a historical marker. In a framed newspaper article entitled "World-Famous Authors Were Childhood Pals," Capote is described as being "remembered here as a brilliant little boy... talking incessantly and using big words most people had never heard." The lobby also leads into the large, oval-shaped courtroom itself. Though the movie wasn't filmed here, the room, with balconies on each side above, inspires reverence. Finding myself all alone in the courtroom, I walked to the front and stood behind the judge's seat. Then I went upstairs to the balcony and sat down for a little while, imagining a time when a young Harper Lee might have sat in that same spot to watch her lawyer father, A.C. Lee, argue a case. When you go, plan to spend at least a couple of hours at the museum - and don't forget to wander through the gift shop. Here, you can find everything from colorful men's ties and bow ties with a mockingbird print to original artwork, T-shirts and ceramic mugs. But there are also baby gifts, holiday-themed decor and other items you won't find anywhere else. While you're at the courthouse, be sure to pick up a copy of the free "Monroeville in the 1930s" walking-tour pamphlet. There's a lot more to explore about life as Harper Lee and Truman Capote knew it in their idyllic childhood immortalized in her book. The museum is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is $5 per person. For more information about the Monroe County Museum, visit www.monroecountymuseum.org. Here, you'll also find out about the Old Claiborne Pilgrimage on Oct. 13 and 14, offering a rare glimpse into Monroe County's forgotten Alabama River town of Claiborne, which was founded three years before the state of Alabama. More than 10 historic sites will be open for tours. It isn't that we wanted to escape life -- we just wanted to grab more of it while we could. That's why, in spite of a recent family death, my husband Bob and I decided to go ahead and take our 25thwedding anniversary trip to Paris and London as planned. There was an element of, "let's be romantic free-spirits, forget our troubles and fly to Europe," but the truth is most of our motivation to proceed with the vacation was because we were too practical to forfeit the nonrefundable prepaid portions while we moped around the house for another day. "Something bad will happen while we're gone" I predicted. Usually optimistic to the point of being confused with a singing Disney princess, I was uncharacteristically fearful the world would fall apart while we were gone. Conditioned by weeks of stress, I sadly focused on what I was leaving behind instead of the joy we could discover in new adventures. My stomach is usually tied in knots and I'm unable to eat a bite of food when under stress, but this time my girlfriends recommended a new way of coping called, "comfort food." Let me tell you, these women are geniuses. Comfort food looks different for everyone, but for me, it turned out to be macaroni and cheese, cheese straws, cheese toast, cheese grits -- do you see a theme here? It was all as soothing as a rocking chair on a breezy 70-degree porch. Bob and I spent a few days in London, which was actually my favorite, then moved on to Paris. And who knew? Paris and all the buildings there are made of cheese and butter. It was a journey meant to be. I was being comforted by one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Blissfully relaxing, my cheesy vacation was interrupted by what I had predicted (moms always know), an emergency back home with our freshman college son who texted to say that while hiking in Mt. Cheaha State Park, he was bit by a black widow spider. He sent a photo of his swollen neck with a big red streak running across his chest. He reported, "The doctors gave me two of the most painful shots in my butt I've ever had." Only, auto-correct replaced the "o" in "shots" with an "i" so he quickly texted, "No! no! I didn't mean that!" because even halfway around the world, he still fears his mom. He then sent a row of what is becoming the official family crest -- a line of laughing/crying-face emojis. After a long-distance freak-out ("Sacre Bleu!") by me, and the obvious question from my husband "Have you noticed any super-human spider abilities yet?" the brilliant and talented campus doctors let us know our big kid would be fine. I comforted myself again with more croissants, butter and cheese, and of all things, who knew the French also know a little bit about champagne? Celebrating memories of those no longer with us, the good health we have here on earth, the thrill of adventure and sharing it for 25 years in the arms of the one you love -- and also celebrating the fact we are blessed with simple things like gooey-cheesy comfort food is a reason to rejoice. And now I'm ready for the next 25 years, right after I hug my son and lose these last three pounds of comfort. You may contact Leslie Anne at: la@leslieannetarabella.com or read more at her blog: http://leslieannetarabella.com Attorneys for the family of a man who died from meningitis last week at Ventress Correctional Facility say correctional officers "provided insufficient medical care" leading to his death. They also claimed correctional officers "allowed this outbreak to spread," according to a statement from Revill Law Firm. Attorneys identified the inmate who died as Michael Eddings. The Alabama Department of Public Health said three inmates were infected with streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. Two developed meningitis, including the inmate who died. Eddings died on Sept. 24 at an area hospital, officials said. At the time, ADOC officials said no foul play was suspected in his death. "Mr. Eddings suffered no chronic medical issues that would have contributed to his death. The Depart of Corrections and its officers were aware of him being sick beginning that preceding Wednesday, September 19, 2018, but were deliberately indifferent to his medical needs. During the days leading up to his death, Ventress Correctional Facility and those working there provided insufficient medical care leading to Mr. Eddings' death and allowed this outbreak to spread," attorneys said in a statement released Tuesday. The attorneys also claimed no autopsy was performed on Eddings' body, "contrary to what was stated by the Alabama Department of Public Health. This is concerning given the seriousness of the disease that caused Mr. Eddings' death and the eventual spread to the other prisoners." The ADOC said last week it would provide antibiotics to inmates and staff who have had close contact or shared cigarettes with infected inmates and to those who have a fever or flu-like illness. The ADPH has also ordered vaccine for those not vaccinated previously. "The family and legal counsel for Mr. Eddings plan on pursuing every means necessary to gain justice for Mr. Eddings' needless death and ask that the Department of Corrections be open and transparent about what happened at Ventress Correctional Facility in the time leading up to his death. This death was avoidable, and measures must be put into place to prevent the Alabama Department of Corrections from allowing this to happen again," the statement said. The ADPH requested assistance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Further information about Eddings' death or the outbreak was not immediately available. An exchange of gunfire at an east Birmingham body shop Wednesday after left two men injured. Gunfire erupted about 1 p.m. inside R.C.'s Collision Paint and Body on in the 5800 block of First Avenue North. East Precinct Sgt. James Cliett said two men suffered gunshot wounds but they did not initially appear to be life-threatening. The victims were taken to UAB Hospital. Police said the two men got into a dispute inside the body shop. Both pulled out guns and fired at each other. One of the victims was found in a vehicle in the parking lot of a nearby business. The second was found on a sidewalk near the Motel Americana. The dispute reportedly happened between a customer and employee but police have not confirmed that information. Investigators are on the scene - which spans about a block - trying to sort out details. Police said once the men have been treated for their wounds, they will be detained and questioned by investigators. This story will be updated as more information becomes available Last Halloween, Etowah County Sheriff Todd Entrekin paid Venture Marketing Group, a Gadsden-based marketing and advertising firm, $2,800 to create a TV commercial. It was the first of several payments the sheriff would make to the company in the run-up to the June primary election, which Entrekin ultimately lost in a landslide to Rainbow City Police Chief Jonathon Horton. Between Oct. 31, 2017, and July, Entrekin would pay Venture more than $29,000 for work related to TV ads. Over that period, Venture created multiple commercials for Entrekin that only aired during the eight months prior to the election. But even though the ads feature Entrekin speaking about the sheriff's office and promoting programs he oversees as sheriff, his campaign committee did not pay Venture for the work. He instead paid the company out of an official sheriff's office account he alone controls called the Sheriff's Law Enforcement Fund. Nearly half of the money in the fund is generated by selling pistol permits to Etowah County residents, according to internal financial documents AL.com obtained from his office via a public records request. 'Inherent conflict of interest' One of the Venture commercials, which the sheriff's office provided to AL.com with the filename "Etowah County Sheriff_AwesomeSheriff," features footage of Entrekin's deputies riding horses, shooting guns and driving military-style vehicles. "We stand ready to protect the citizens of Etowah County," Entrekin says into the camera toward the end of the video. Another commercial encourages people to "call the Etowah County Sheriff's Office" for help if they are friends with a pregnant drug addict. Entrekin has been criticized in recent years for his policy of arresting pregnant women and new mothers who test positive for drugs including marijuana under the state's chemical endangerment law. A third commercial cycles through bleak scenes of the inside of Etowah County's notorious jail and ends with a shot of Entrekin instructing viewers to tell anyone who offers them drugs that "it's not your thing," a throwback to the "just say no" anti-drug campaign of the 1980s and early 1990s. Corey Goldstone, a spokesman for the Campaign Legal Center, a nonpartisan electoral rights advocacy nonprofit in Washington, D.C., said that the spending and the commercials - which he has watched - pose serious ethical concerns. "The timing of the ads raises questions about whether Sherriff Entrekin should have used campaign funds or public funds," Goldstone said via email. "When a candidate for public office runs an ad campaign in the weeks preceding an election, speaking directly to the camera to tout his law enforcement initiatives in his official capacity, while wearing his badge, with his title visible on screen, it feels like a campaign ad." Natalie Barton, a spokeswoman for the sheriff's office, said via email that the ads were "public service announcements" and that they "promote the anonymous Crime Tip Line." Two of the commercials, which are between 30 and 33 seconds long, show the tip line phone number on-screen for five seconds or less. The third does not include any reference to the tip line. "They began [airing] in October 2017 and aired for approximately 8 months as internet pre-roll and on television on channels such as HGTV, A&E, Discovery, History and Lifetime," Barton said. Entrekin's campaign separately paid Venture less than $1,600 for advertising and photos between January and April, according to his state campaign finance filings. The internal sheriff's office records show that the law enforcement fund made no other payments to the firm between Aug. 1, 2015, and Aug. 28, 2018. Alabama law says public officials may not "use any state, county, city, local school board, or other governmental agency funds, property, or time, for any political activities." Sheila Krumholz, executive director of the Center for Responsive Politics, a nonpartisan campaign finance research nonprofit in Washington, D.C., said she is not in a position to determine if Entrekin broke state law by purchasing the commercials. But she said in a statement that "using public funds to air an ad during a political campaign presents" an "inherent conflict of interest," whether it is legal in Alabama or not. "The ad title 'Awesome Sheriff' in particular calls into question whether the funds were spent mainly to promote law enforcement generally or the sheriff running for reelection," Krumholz said. "At a minimum, such funds should not be in the sole control of someone who stands to benefit in this way. In addition, the timing of the ad begs the question why it was never run outside the window of the campaign if this was not, in fact, a campaign-related expense." 'Law enforcement purposes' Sheriffs across Alabama operate law enforcement funds, which state laws have authorized county-by-county for the purpose of depositing and disbursing money raised by selling pistol permits. In Etowah County, money in the Sheriff's Law Enforcement Fund "shall be drawn upon by the Sheriff of Etowah County or his or her appointed agent and shall be exclusively for law enforcement purposes in the public's interest and in the discharge of the sheriff's office as the sheriff sees fit," according to a local section of the Alabama State Code. Multiple attorneys general have published opinions in recent years reiterating that money in these law enforcement funds must be used "exclusively for law enforcement purposes in the public interest," but they have typically left it up to individual sheriffs to decide what that means. Entrekin said in December 2013 that about one in eight Etowah County residents had a pistol permit. The permits cost $20 per year and authorize qualified county residents to carry a pistol for up to five years. "When you're at a [county] population of 104,000 people, and you're selling 13,000 pistol permits, that's a lot," he told ABC 33/40 at the time. Between Aug. 1, 2015, and Aug. 28, 2018, Entrekin's law enforcement fund brought in more than $539,000 from the sale of pistol permits, according to the internal sheriff's office records. Etowah County Sheriff Todd Entrekin. (Etowah County Sheriff's Office) Attorney's fees Donald Rhea, an attorney who represents Entrekin, sent a letter this summer to Attorney General Steve Marshall's office asking whether Entrekin can legally use money from his law enforcement fund to pay a lawyer to respond to the ongoing federal and state investigations into how he uses jail food funds. The two investigations were launched in the months following a March report by AL.com that revealed that over the previous three years Entrekin had personally kept more than $750,000 worth of public money allocated for the feeding of federal, state and municipal inmates in Etowah County's jail. A review of Entrekin's 2015 and 2016 personal tax returns, which he released earlier this year, found that he in fact kept more than $922,000 worth of money allocated for feeding inmates between 2015 and 2017. In September 2017, Entrekin and his wife Karen bought a beach house in Orange Beach for $740,000, a purchase that later earned Entrekin the nickname "Beach House Sheriff." The opinion Marshall's office issued Aug. 30 in response to Rhea's inquiry states that whether hiring a lawyer to respond to the investigations into Entrekin qualifies as a "law enforcement purpose in the public's interest" as required under state law "is a factual determination that can be made only by the sheriff." Marshall's office added that "[t]his opinion is limited to hiring an attorney for the sheriff to respond to inquiries in his official capacity and does not include doing so in the sheriff's personal capacity." But during a March press conference Entrekin argued - as he has on multiple other occasions - that he is "personally responsible" for the jail food funds and the Etowah County jail's inmate-feeding operation, which he said he considers a private business. He claimed during the press conference that because he pays personal income taxes on hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of jail food funds each year, he should be eligible to keep any "excess" money that he does not use to feed inmates. He is not alone. Though Entrekin is the only Alabama sheriff known to have kept nearly a million dollars over three years, sheriffs across the state have pocketed thousands of dollars of inmate-feeding money, arguing that the practice is legal under a depression-era state law. But using funds from an official sheriff's office account to pay a lawyer to respond to inquiries into a personal financial matter would be cause for concern, according to Aaron Littman, a staff attorney with the Southern Center for Human Rights, a non-profit civil rights law firm in Atlanta. "As the Governor recently reiterated, jail food funds are public money," Littman said via email. "Sheriff Entrekin has claimed this money is private; he can't have it both ways." Coins, carpet and cable Between Aug. 1, 2015, and Aug. 28, 2018, Entrekin's law enforcement fund brought in about $1.23 million and spent nearly $1.27 million, according to the internal financial records. Pistol permit sales accounted for less than half of the money that flowed into the fund over the three-year period. The rest of the $1.23 million came from a range of other sources including the sale of used construction equipment, restitution, private donations and court assessment, probate and sex offender fees. Over the past two years, the fund has seen an influx of cash from new fees. In 2016, Gov. Robert Bentley approved a state law requiring that every person booked into Etowah County's jail pay a $30 "booking fee." The law, which was championed by Entrekin and local state legislators, directed $20 of each booking fee to the Etowah County Sheriff's Law Enforcement Fund. "This is a way of making criminals, the people who use the jail and cost [the sheriff's office] so much money, help pay for it," Entrekin told the Gadsden Times in April 2016. He added that the law grew out of a need for more discretionary funding. Between Oct. 7, 2016, and Aug. 28, 2018, the new booking fees brought more than $11,000 into his law enforcement fund, according to the internal sheriff's office records. Each year, the fund spends tens of thousands of dollars on items directly related to the act of enforcing the law, such as uniforms and ammunition. But the fund has also spent tens of thousands of dollars since Aug. 1, 2015, on a wide variety of other products and services. In August 2015, it purchased $1,600 worth of "Challenge Coins" from Alabama Custom Coins and Pins, according to the internal records. Challenge coins are decorative medallions sometimes carried by members of law enforcement agencies. Between Aug. 1, 2015, and Aug. 28, 2018, the fund spent $4,200 on food at the Gadsden restaurant Beans & Greens and $2,600 on "per diem" expenses for Entrekin and other sheriff's office employees. Entrekin's law enforcement fund spent $2,000 at Quality Custom Marble & Granite and more than $4,300 at Foote Bros. Carpet One between August 2016 and January 2017. The records do not say what was purchased with that money. Between Aug. 1, 2015, and Aug. 28, 2018, the fund paid more than $150,000 worth of cable and cellphone bills. Over the three-year period, Entrekin's law enforcement fund spent more than $48,000 on advertisements other than the commercials created by Venture Marketing Group. The records indicate that the ads promoted the sheriff's office, its crime tip line and various community events on local TV stations and high school scoreboards and in newspapers and other public forums. Between Jan. 11, 2018, and June 18, 2018 - two weeks after the primary in which Entrekin was vying to be Etowah County's Republican sheriff nominee - the fund spent more than $8,300 on ads. Barton, the sheriff's office spokeswoman, emailed a two-sentence response to a series of detailed questions about the law enforcement fund. "Expenditures are always audited by the Examiners of Public Accounts to ensure the funds are expended in compliance with the law," Barton said. "Copies of audit reports may be obtained from the Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts website." Department of Examiners of Public Accounts audits of the sheriff's office's finances between Aug. 1, 2009, and July 31, 2015, divide law enforcement fund spending into two categories, "law enforcement expenses" and "equipment," but provide no further detail about what was purchased. The department has not yet released an audit of the sheriff's office covering the period since July 31, 2015. 'This is our money' Entrekin and the Alabama Sheriff's Association of which he is a member fiercely defend the money that flows into their coffers via pistol permit fees and oppose any legislation that could reduce that cash flow. For years, pistol permits cost $10 per year in Etowah County, but a state law approved in 2004 amended a local section of the state code to increase the price to $20. Under the revised local act, the additional $10 per permit is still supposed to be deposited into the Sheriff's Law Enforcement Fund, but those funds "shall be used to fund the sheriff's school resource officer program or if that program is discontinued, school safety by the sheriff's office." Internal financial records show that funds brought in from selling pistol permits are split between two accounts. Half the money goes into the law enforcement fund, while the other half goes into a dedicated school resource officer fund. In 2013, Entrekin publicly spoke out against a proposed state law that would have cut pistol permit fees in half and reduced sheriffs' discretion over their issuance. "Currently, pistol permits in Etowah County are $20 and renewed annually," Entrekin told the Gadsden Messenger at the time. "We use this money to hire School Resource Officers. If that fee is cut in half, we will lose the six deputies we currently have in schools." Former state senator Scott Beason told AL.com that he received "tremendous pushback from the Sheriffs Association" and many individual sheriffs in 2014, when he made an unsuccessful attempt to get a state law passed that would have allowed qualified Alabama residents to keep pistols in their cars without a permit. "It became clear in all those debates that the pushback really was about hanging on to every dollar. They kept saying it was about safety ... but it was clear it was about money," he said. "I always felt like it was about, 'Hey, this is our money, it doesn't matter what constitutionally your right is - this is our money.'" A former Alabama police officer has been indicted on federal charges of civil rights violations. The U.S. Department of Justice on Wednesday announced the indictments against 25-year-old Michael Brandan Smirnoff, a former Tallassee Police Department officer. He is charged federally with civil rights and obstruction offenses - two counts of deprivation of rights under color of law and one count of obstruction of justice. According to the DOJ, Smirnoff twice used unlawful force on arrestees and submitted a false report to cover up one of the incidents. The first incident happened on March 29, 2016, when authorities said Smirnoff slammed a handcuffed man to the ground, then used unreasonable force while placing him into a police vehicle. In a second incident, on July 5, 2015, Smirnoff used a Taser stun gun on a man who had already been placed in handcuffs and was not physically resisting. "As a result of these unjustified uses of force, both victims sustained bodily injuries,'' according to the DOJ statement. The indictment further charges that Smirnoff obstructed justice by submitting a false report about the second incident. Smirnoff in 2016 was indicted by the Tallapoosa County grand jury for third-degree assault in connection with the March 2016 incident. Authorities at that time said Smirnoff was helping other officers pursue an ATV driver who was attempting to elude police. The driver was stopped and taken into custody. "It was at this point while the individual was being transported back to a patrol vehicle, that he alleges that Smirnoff used force which exceeded that which was necessary," police said at the time. Smirnoff denied the allegations. Efforts to obtain the disposition of the 2016 state third-degree assault charge weren't immediately successful. This case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise Simpson of the Middle District of Alabama and Civil Rights Division Trial Attorney Michael J. Songer. If convicted, Smirnoff faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison for the deprivation of rights charges and 20 years in prison for the obstruction charge, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. 1. Yes. Losing daily service to Houston could be just the first in a series of service cutbacks. 2. Yes. Being less competitive with Austin and D-FW will hurt the airport in the long run. 3. No. The airport has seen strong passenger numbers. Good marketing can keep it going. 4. No. The airport is still pursuing other service, including a Denver route. Its still a solid asset. 5. Unsure. Its hard to say without knowing future airline and travel industry trends. Vote View Results A 36-year-old Piedmont man was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon following an incident that activated the Etowah County Joint Special Operations Group. Sheriff's officials said the 911 call was made about 2 p.m., stating a male was possibly drowning in a creek behind a residence on Rocky Ford Road. When deputies and officers arrived on scene, they found Bryan Keith Puckett in the creek with a shotgun to his head, said spokeswoman Natalie Barton. Deputies were able to safely apprehend Puckett around 3:45 pm. During the incident, dispatchers advised law enforcement personnel on scene that Puckett had several outstanding felony warrants that include: first-degree theft of property, third-degree burglary, third-degree domestic violence-harassment, and violations of his state probation. Puckett was checked by medics on scene and then transported to the Etowah County Detention Center. Agencies on scene included the Etowah County Sheriff's Office, the Etowah County Joint Special Operations Group, the Hokes Bluff Police Department, Ball Play #1 Volunteer Fire Department and A-Med Ambulance. Rev. Tyree Anderson, of First Baptist Church of Ensley, believes Birmingham officials shouldn't depend on surveillance cameras alone to curb the city's crime. He understands why the City Council approved a resolution on Sept. 25 to enter into a contract with Alabama Power's pilot surveillance camera program. As of Wednesday, 85 homicides have occurred in Birmingham although five of those deaths have been ruled justifiable by law enforcement. The same day the cameras were approved, Birmingham police said a man was shot and killed on 25th Street in Ensley following an altercation. The 95 cameras will be placed in police-designated hot spots for crime and will initially be installed in the Central Park, Ensley, Gate City and Kingston neighborhoods. The five-year contract will cost the city an estimated $672,000 annually, which will be broken down into $56,000 monthly payments. Anderson wonders if instead some of the money could be used to finance solutions, churches and organizations addressing the communities' needs. "I understand cameras, but also how much of that money could have went into a job training program? How much of that could have went into creating industry in Ensley?" Anderson asked. "Ninety-five sounds like a lot. Are we actually making the best investment to end crime, or at least stop a lot of the violent crime, that's been happening in Birmingham?" The council's decision was met with mixed reactions among the people who live in the neighborhoods soon to be under surveillance. Like Anderson, many wondered if the money could be used to support efforts to strengthen communities. Others shared articles about the cameras on social media, often posting with the slogan "Big Brother is watching you." While campaigning for the Jefferson County Commission District 2 seat, Richard Dickerson talked to Ensley residents and those in the neighboring communities of Belview Heights and West End. Dickerson said people informed him about how crime affects their daily life. "People of Belview Heights told me they were afraid to sit on their porch during the day," Dickerson said. "These are regular people on the neighborhoods. People who are working on their car in the driveway saying, 'Be careful out here because this thing could jump off any minute.'" AL.com has reported that neighborhood presidents and law enforcement experts say the city wasn't transparent about the surveillance cameras. While other cities, such as Washington, D.C., hosted multiple community meetings before installing its cameras, Birmingham council members were briefed in private about the surveillance program during an executive session that lasted more than an hour. Birmingham officials said in a press release the cameras "will enhance law enforcement efforts to protect the public through a larger, comprehensive strategy to prevent and reduce crime." But Dickerson said Woodfin hasn't articulated a strategy. "He promised us a comprehensive plan to reduce crime. We don't have that. In the interim, if there are steps that can be taken something is better than nothing," Dickerson said. "These neighborhoods are being decimated by crime. So if you can put cameras up that will help to deter, impede, deny (crime), then let's do that, but let's not fool ourselves." The footage will be the city's property and will be monitored and maintained by Birmingham police officers at the Jefferson County Metro Area Crime Center. According to the contract, the video and the camera locations are confidential. The cameras will work with the city's ShotSpotter system which uses sensors and software to locate gunfire. The video will be used to observe crime scenes to identify individuals, record and retain video that can assist in ongoing criminal investigations, and provide situational awareness during emergency operations. Brian Voice Porter Hawkins, director of the Color Project Ensley, thinks the cameras will help catch those committing the crime and will give a sense of security. But he doesn't think surveillance will attack the roots of crime, which include lack of employment. Hawkins said the problem boils down to economics. Either there aren't enough jobs in the area or the jobs available don't offer a living wage, he said. "The economics of the communities where these cameras are supposed to be going into are bad and people have to find a way get the things they need," Hawkins said. "I'm not saying this to condone any illegal or unethical behavior. It's reality that when people need things and become desperate, they may look to means to get those things that are not exactly ethical or legal." Anderson can see how the lack of opportunities can create a plague of problems in the community: Anderson, who studied the attitudes towards incarceration in his dissertation, argues that imprisonment occurs when someone is sent to prison, but incarceration begins long before a person is imprisoned. "Incarceration happens in your community, based on your zip code, and your school resources and lack of relationships that you have in the community," Anderson said. "A person can walk around Ensley, Kingston, Gate City and they can be incarcerated because they don't have the resources nor the tools to get out of the conditions they are in." Hawkins said he hasn't heard much chatter around Ensley yet about the cameras. Those who do know about the surveillance hope more will be done about the crime. Hawkins said one woman responded to the cameras by saying, "That's cute." "What I'm hoping is that this is step one in a plan that we have not seen but hopefully will see -- a measure to give people a sense of safety while the other angles are being worked out," Hawkins said." Some people are glad something it's happening but they want more to happen." Along with the lack of resources, Anderson said the community is lacking in relationships. He said they don't know their neighbors or local representatives. He plans to meet the officers responsible for patrolling the west Birmingham neighborhood during national Coffee with a Cop Day Wednesday at the new Starbucks located in the Five Points West business district. Anderson said he doesn't know the local officers because they don't walk the area. Anderson said there is a sense of fear in their communities because most residents don't know what to do about the crime. The lack of community intensifies the fear, he said. "Fear has gripped Gate City. Fear has gripped Kingston. Fear has gripped Ensley. People are afraid to walk down the street," Anderson said. "Ignorance breeds insecurity and when we are insecure about each other, people begin to develop this level of fear that they didn't have before." Anderson can see both sides of the surveillance argument. He was surrounded by cameras while working as the supervisory chaplain for the Federal Bureau of Prisons in Tallahassee, Florida. The cameras he has installed both inside and outside the church are his eyes while he is away. While he is a firm believer of monitoring one's property, he said the community itself can also provide great surveillance when relationships are established. "If something happens and I have a relationship with people, they are going to tell me, 'Hey, this is what's going on.' Because that relationship is there," Anderson said. The only solution to combat fear and incarceration Anderson said is through building relationships and addressing the communities' needs. He said the mayor's office and the city council should know the people and organizations helping their communities in order to partner with them. Neighbors have to build a sense of community with each other. Anderson makes sure he goes out and communicates with Ensley residents and is planning a community financial literacy class. Since Ensley doesn't have an urgent care clinic, Anderson said his congregation is hoping to create one in a building across the street from the church. By partnering and investing more with the community, Anderson believes the city can develop the multi-prong approach needed to attack crime. "Most of the people who are doing this stuff have no morality. They believe that nothing matters except what they want. That's when the church comes in," Anderson said. "The camera can catch them acting out during their immoral situations. If morality is going to come back, and if people's lives are going to be changed, then it's going to have to happen when people begin to value in each other." Four-hundred guns stolen from a UPS facility in Tennessee were found in Chicago, police said. Police in Midlothian, Illinois arrested Traveyan Turbo, 18, and are searching for Roland Jackson, 24, in connection to the Sunday theft of 16 pallets of guns from the UPS facility in Memphis, Tennessee. The guns were originally from firearms manufacturer Ruger in North Carolina and were headed from Memphis to Dallas, WTVR reported. The men allegedly planned on returning to Chicago to sell the weapons. Police discovered the firearms when they stopped Turbo and Jackson's U-Haul, suspecting that the two men were dealing drugs. Turbo allegedly told police he didn't help steal the guns but was facilitating the sale of the weapons. He faces a detention hearing later this week on charges of possessing a stolen firearm. Authorities are still searching for Jackson, who was out of bond on electronic home monitoring at the time of the theft. Jackson is being charged with illegal possession of a firearm by a felon. His case has been assigned to the ATF's fugitive apprehension unit and there is a $5,000 reward for information. A man from Alabama was sentenced to life in prison Tuesday for his part in the murder of a teenager during a botched drug deal last year. Demarcus Montrel Giddens, 22, was given life without parole for shooting 16-year-old Jason Ian Price from point blank range with an AK-47 in August 2017, according to local news reports. He was found guilty last week of first-degree felony murder and attempted robbery. Price was murdered after coming to the aid of his 17-year-old friend who Giddens had tried to steal marijuana from. While Giddens said he shot Price in self-defense, the friends he was with that day testified against him. Gertavious Montrez Canada, 25, said that he saw Giddens draw the AK-47 but did not wait to see the shots fired. Rodney Racquez Jones, 19, said that Giddens planned the robbery and showed no remorse in the aftermath of the murder. Canada was sentenced to four years while Jones received a 15-year sentence. Nappily Ever After This is an opinion column. "We're not here to talk about hair." --Violet, in "Nappily Ever After" Oh, yes, we are. (Though, as anyone who's ever seen me knows, I'm no expert on it.) We're here to talk about hair because hair matters, especially--and I don't think I'm stepping on any charged-up third rail here--to women. Especially African-American women. So much so, America's first female self-made millionaire, Madame CJ Walker, built her entrepreneurial empire on selling hair-care products to black women. So much so that generations of black women have been frustrated, uplifted, confounded and defined by their hair as accepted standards of beauty were promoted and perpetuated of a continuous loop of hair that was straightened, pressed, weaved, relaxed--every way but .... Every way but natural. "[Hair] is part of our identity," says Jessica Latten, 33, of Birmingham. "I'm not saying it should be, but for lot of women that's how it is. Society places a lot of importance on women's appearance and hair is a big part of it. When powerful women are on television people want to emphasize what she looks like, what she's wearing, her hair style. It's not fair, but people care more about how a woman looks than with a man. "For black women, it's a little deeper because of societal pressure to fit into the standard of beauty as defined by white women goes back generations, to slavery. Even folks who say they're woke, a lot of them subconsciously still look at 'white" as the standard of beauty." Latten was tired of it. She knew other African-American women were, as well. Turns out, so were a lot of them. In 2005, the graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham launched a Facebook group called Natural Hair. Back then, the not-quite-yet-ubiquitous social media entity confined community groups to members living locally. Natural Hair grew fast, Latten made it global within a year. (Today, all Facebook groups are global). "I knew what women were looking for when going natural," Latten says. Today, Natural Hair has almost 275,000 members, making it one of Facebook's largest communities. Because of Natural Hair's success, the social media platform considers Latten, 33, an expert on building digital communities. It has invited her to partake in community summits around the nation three times, including in New York during the summer of 2017, when she met Facebook CEO Sheryl Sandberg and obtained a signed copy of her book Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience and Finding Joy. Members, not surprisingly, are overwhelmingly African-American women--about 99%. In essence, it's a massive digital beauty salon where topics of discussion span the range of issues, events and trends pertinent to black women. "We're not talking about hair all the time," says Latten, the communications coordinator at Alabama Possible. "Yes, there are thousands of comments and threads about natural hair. We realized when we created the group we'd get a certain demographic, but that demographic has a lot of shared interests and people quickly started talking about a lot of different things. "When there's any kind of injustice towards a black woman, especially when it comes to wearing natural hair at school or their place of employment, our members find out about it and send two-hundred-thousand letters, emails or messages demanding a change." Of course, it wouldn't be a true beauty salon without this: "It has its fair share of ratchetness," Latten says with a laugh. "We try to keep it down but it's also entertaining." Latten was a military brat who grew up lived in Durham, N.C.; she often visited her father in Birmingham. Her family was strict; she didn't have a lot of friends. Jessica wore her hair relaxed for as long as she could remember. But soon after graduating from high school she had a hair-piphany. "I was tired of looking in the mirror thinking I had to change something about myself to feel attractive--to be beautiful," she recalls. On that day, Jessica decided she was fine the way she was. "The way God created me," she says. So, she cut her long, straight hair--not all the way, but enough to make an emphatic statement, if to no one else but herself. She also decided to stop using the chemicals that relaxed her hair for so long she didn't even know what the natural texture of her hair felt like. "I'd just be me," she says. "If you like it you like it, it you don't you don't--although if you don't I'm not sure I could trust your judgement." It took about a year for her to go fully natural and not everyone was on board. Her stepmother asked her to cut it because of the two different textures. "What are you doing," she said, often. "Get that cut!" And many men, at that time, were befuddled by the emerging trend. Latten often heard: I don't understand why women are going around with nappy hair?" "It's like we've been brainwashed," Latten says. Fortunately, that has changed. So much so, 80 percent of African-Americans wore natural hair last year, according to research firm Mintel. (The overall black hair care market is said to be $2.5 billion.) So much so, Richelieu Dennis, a Liberian who began creating skin and hair care products with his mother in 1992, is the CEO of Sundial brands, a collection of products created for natural-hair care, most notably SheaMoisture. Last January, Dennis bought iconic Essence magazine from what was then Time Inc. Latten stared her own line of natural care products, too, and sold them though her own company, Indigo Tree, LCC. Her products were mostly available at Golden Temple on the South Side. Her mission now, though, is broader than commerce. "Having natural hair and believing you don't have to change yourself for anybody helps build confidence," she says. "Once you build confidence, you don't want to take anything from anyone, you have the power to make a difference and make a change." One strand, one head, one massive, impassioned digital community at a time. Roy S. Johnson's column appears in The Birmingham News, the Huntsville Times, the Mobile Register and AL.com. Hit me up at rjohnson@al.com or/and follow me at twitter.com/roysj or on Instagram at instagram.com/roysj/. The Senate passed the final version of a sweeping opioids' package Wednesday afternoon and will send it to the White House just in time for lawmakers to campaign on the issue before the November midterm elections. The vote was 99 to 1, with only Utah Sen. Mike Lee, R, opposing it. The bill unites dozens of smaller proposals sponsored by hundreds of lawmakers, many of whom face tough reelection fights. It creates, expands and reauthorizes programs and policies across almost every federal agency, aiming to address different aspects of the opioid epidemic, including prevention, treatment and recovery. It is one of Congress' most significant legislative achievements this year, a rare bipartisan response to a growing public health crisis that resulted in 72,000 drug-overdose deaths last year. It marks a moment of bipartisan accomplishment at an especially rancorous time on Capitol Hill as senators debate Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to the Supreme Court. Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, who sounded the alarm on opioid addiction four years ago, is credited with the slice of the bill that could have the greatest effect. It will require the U.S. Postal Service to screen packages for fentanyl shipped from overseas, mainly China. Synthetic opioids that are difficult to detect are increasingly being found in pills and heroin and are responsible for an increase in overdose deaths. "I will say getting that passed, to me, is just common sense. I think it's overdue. I'm disappointed it took us this long," Portman said in a floor speech Tuesday. "How many people had to die before Congress stood up and did the right thing with regard to telling our own post office you have to provide better screening?" On Wednesday, just before the vote, he called it a, "glimmer of hope." The bill's passage comes a year after President Donald Trump declared the opioid crisis a national emergency. The Senate vote is the last step before he signs the measure into law. The House passed it 393 to 8 last week. Public-health advocates laud the bill's increased attention to treatment, which they say is the key component to overcoming addiction. The legislation would create a grant program for comprehensive recovery centers that include housing and job training, as well as mental and physical health care. It would increase access to medication-assisted treatment that helps people with substance abuse disorders safely wean themselves. Another major aspect of the bill is the change to a decades-old arcane rule that prohibited Medicaid from covering patients with substance abuse disorders who were receiving treatment in a mental health facility with more than 16 beds. The bill lifts that rule to allow for 30 days of residential treatment coverage. The opioid crisis has hit communities big and small, rural and urban, in states red and blue. The more cynical view of the bipartisan work on this package is that it's an easy election-year win. Although it contains provisions that help address the problem, it does not dedicate the level of funding and long-term commitment needed to fight a crisis of this magnitude, many experts say. "This legislation edges us closer to treating addiction as the devastating disease it is, but it neglects to provide the long-term investment we've seen in responses to other major public health crises," said Lindsey Vuolo, Associate Director of Health Law and Policy at Center on Addiction. "We won't be able to make meaningful progress against the tide of addiction unless we make significant changes to incorporate addiction treatment into the existing health care system." Congress has appropriated $8.5 billion this year for opioid-related programs, but there's no guarantee of funding for subsequent years. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md., have proposed committing $100 billion over 10 years to fighting the opioid crisis. It is modeled after Congress's robust response to HIV/AIDS. The son of Lambert's Cafe founder is charged with five felonies related to sex crimes involving children. Benjamin P. Lambert, 50, of Ozark, Missouri is charged with two counts of sexual trafficking of a child under the age of 18; one felony count of sexual exploitation of a minor; one felony count for possession of child pornography; and one felony count of promoting prostitution, according to the Springfield News-Leader. Lambert is the son of restaurant founder Earl Lambert. The restaurant - best known for its - "throwed rolls" - has two locations in Missouri and one in Foley, Alabama. Earl Lambert died in 1976; Benjamin Lambert was involved in the management of its Ozark, Missouri location. The company posted a statement related to the arrest on its Facebook page: Lambert was indicted on Sept. 7. Court documents allege Lambert enticed two children to participate in a sex act for money and filmed sexual activity involving the two children. The alleged crimes occurred between April and August 2015, authorities said. Lambert pleaded not guilty to the charges and posted $100,000 bond. He is scheduled to be back in court Dec. 6. The 1997 rape on Broad Street was a classic cold case. If a Wednesday arraignment leads to a conviction, it may become a classic example of why it pays to revisit dead ends. It was December, according to prosecutors. A young woman was walking home from work. She was accosted by a stranger, led behind a vacant building at gunpoint and sexually assaulted. Investigators collected DNA evidence and she provided a description of her assailant, but the investigation provided no leads. It took 20 years for that to change. Mobile became one of a number of cities receiving federal Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) grants aimed specifically at clearing backlogs of stored evidence kits. The DNA sample in this case actually had been tested in the beginning, but hadn't provided a match. But when it was sent off again for testing in 2016, thanks to the new funding, there was a much bigger DNA database to compare it to. This time there was a match: Frederick Antoine Tate. Tate, 42, whose first name is also listed as "Fredrick" in court records, was already in prison. He'd pleaded guilty to a rape charge in 1999. In 2008 he pleaded guilty to failing to register as a sex offender, drawing a split sentence in which virtually all his prison time was suspended. A similar situation happened again in early 2013. But later that year he was arrested on a third-degree burglary charge, which brought the suspended sentence crashing down. According to the Alabama Department of Corrections, his guilty plea in October 2014 came with a 15-year sentence for the sex offender registration violation and a concurrent 15 years for the burglary charge. The next step for investigators was to approach the victim of the 1997 crime, inform her they'd identified a suspect and ask if she was willing to proceed with prosecution. Victims sometimes don't. This one did. Still, wheels had to turn. Investigators had to get a fresh DNA swab from Tate, which was done in November 2017. Getting that processed took a while. Tate was indicted by a grand jury in May 2018 and investigators began the process of having him transferred from the Fountain Correctional Facility near Atmore back to Mobile. A multidisciplinary task force is pursuing the progress of the SAKI-funded cold-case investigations in Mobile. As recently as a Sept. 21 meeting, members didn't know how long it would take the wheels to turn for the next step in the process. Assistant District Attorney Tandice Hogan, a prominent representative of the DA's office on that task force, said that in the end it happened suddenly. Late Tuesday, she said, Tate's arraignment was scheduled for Wednesday morning. The proceedings were brief, Hogan said: Tate entered a plea of not guilty, was assigned a court-appointed attorney and appeared to raise the possibility of participating in his own defense. The next hearing will be in November. Tate still gets his day in court and is considered innocent of the 1997 rape until found otherwise. But to Hogan and others involved with the SAKI process, the case represents exactly the kind of result that the cold-case effort was designed to achieve. It holds out the hope of bringing justice in a 20-year-old crime, and it may help keep a repeat offender locked away. "It's a good example of why we needed the grant funding," she said. "We've identified a serial offender ... It's been one of our goals to identify these serial and repeat offenders and protect our community." According to the Alabama Department of Corrections, Tate would have been eligible for release as soon as February 2019. "Hopefully he won't be getting out now," said Lt. Matthew James, who heads the Mobile Police Department's Special Victim's Unit and who has been instrumental in developing its effort to clear sexual assault cold cases. The arraignment of Tate follows SAKI's first such success, following the April arrest of Roderick Lee Williams for a 1998 assault. James said investigators think both cases are just a taste of things to come. "We hope so," he said. "It looks like right now we've got at least seven more coming behind them." TO BECOME AN AMERICAN YOU MUST CHANGE YOUR VALUES ... NOT YOUR LOCATION STAY HOME AND BUILD AMERICA ON YOUR SOIL I have come to continue exactly where I stopped, declared Ugandan MP Robert Kyagulanyi, also known by his stage name Bobi Wine, upon his arrival to Kampala on September 20. He had just come back from a trip to the United States where he sought treatment for injuries he says were caused by his torture at the hands of Ugandan security forces. We must get our freedom or we shall die trying to get our freedom, he told reporters. Large crowds of supporters came to his house to welcome him, defying a police order. Despite a treason charge hanging over his head, Bobi Wine seems intent on putting up a challenge to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. Over the past few months, his appeal has grown and his profile raised in Uganda and beyond. He has helped unseat three incumbent ruling party MPs, including in the city of Arua, where he was arrested in mid-August. After news broke of his detention and torture, the #FreeBobiWine campaign spread rapidly across East Africa, Europe and North America. This put pressure on the Ugandan government to release him and allow him to travel to the US. There, he met with and lobbied US officials to withdraw support from President Museveni over the human rights violations his administration has committed. His cause was also brought up in legislatures in the United Kingdom and the European Union. He now has many high-profile friends and sympathisers around the world who are watching every move of the Ugandan government, ready to blow the bullhorn should something happened to him again. Ugandans have seen the rise and fall of challengers to President Museveni over the past three decades but many seem to sense that something is different this time. It seems the 36-year-old musician-turned-MP has managed to get under Musevenis skin, rattling and unsettling him in a way that no politician ever has. Quite out of character, the Ugandan president has even flip-flopped on his social media stance. While just a few months ago, he was trying to tax the youth for using social media platforms to spread gossip, he took to Twitter to deny the obvious and to push the narrative that the rising political star is just another irritant, a troublemaker. Museveni has also given two lengthy speeches to defend his legacy, promising to fix the countrys intractable problems but disillusioned Ugandans, mostly young Bobi Wine diehards, see him as an old man out of touch with reality, obsessed with past glories and clueless about present-day challenges. They even nicknamed Bosco, a technologically challenged character in a popular ad released by a local mobile operator. {articleGUID} However, it would be foolhardy to start writing Musevenis political obituary now. Despite his many weaknesses, he has managed to fortify himself in power in a way that gives him absolute control and unquestionable loyalty, which Bobi Wine will most likely fail to break. One of the main challenges for any politician who eyes President Musevenis seat is the role the military plays in Ugandan politics. Over the past three decades, the Ugandan president has managed to militarise the state by giving government and legislative positions to top military officers. In 2005 he introduced the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces Act of 2005 giving vast powers to the army. One of the stipulations of the act provide for 10 acting army officers being elected to parliament by an army council, after being nominated first by Museveni himself. Apart from the obvious problems with the army having a say in legislative affairs, its presence has also invited direct meddling in deliberations, including on occasion the storming of the parliament by security forces. The act has also enabled the army to try civilians in military courts. Bobi Wine himself appeared before a military court in August after being charged with illegal possession of weapons. The military also has a significant presence within the cabinet, with Gen Kahinda Otafire in charge of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Gen Elly Tumwine heading the security ministry. The people closest to the president are also army men. Musevenis brother, a retired general, controls Operation Wealth Creation, a socio-economic initiative with an enormous government budget, while his son is a top-ranking general who was initially put in charge of the elite Presidential Guard Unit and then appointed Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations. There have been some speculations that by promoting him within the army ranks, Museveni is grooming his son to succeed him. This lack of separation between the military the men with guns and the civilian government in Uganda is what is likely to upset Bobi Wines attempt to challenge Musevenis power or that of any other civilian politician. Even if he manages to rally the majority of the civilian population behind his cause and gets the backing of major international actors, he will still find it difficult to bring down a president backed by the military. And even if he succeeds, the generals will remain and they will likely do anything to keep the political and economic power they currently enjoy. They are likely to sabotage any effort to introduce major economic and political reforms that could take away their privileges. Museveni himself has been threatened by various powerful officers within the army. It is for this reason that he has conducted purges within its ranks, despite the risk of mutiny. So far, he has managed to silence his challengers, some as powerful as David Sejusa, a Bush War veteran (just like Museveni) and former coordinator of intelligence services. In 2013, Sejusa called for an investigation into an alleged plot to assassinate high-ranking military officials opposing Musevenis son. He was then accused of plotting a coup and forced to go into exile in the UK where he remained for a year before returning home; after a short imprisonment, the formerly outspoken general is now free but maintaining a low profile. While Museveni has so far been able to handle the army, his successor might not be able to. The events of 2011-2013 in Egypt are a good illustration of what happens when a civilian political force tries to challenge the power of a politicised military. In 2011, the Egyptian army stepped back and let the popular revolt topple President Hosni Mubarak, whose sons were perceived as a threat by the militarys top brass. Then the army also let Mohamed Morsi take the presidency and form a government; it even let him rule for about a year. But Egypts military leadership blocked all efforts of his political group, the Muslim Brotherhood, to dismantle its power and eventually brought him down with a coup. While the parallel between the Egyptian and the Ugandan armies is not a full one the former being much more powerful than the latter it is not a stretch to say that discontent military officers could serve as spoilers to whoever comes to power after Museveni, be it Bobi Wine or someone else. At the same time, expectations for any post-Museveni leadership will be astronomically high (the way they were in Egypt) and his successor will risk losing whatever political capital he or she has by trying to fix decades of purposeful weakening of civilian institutions. In this sense, while Bobi Wine is indeed a breath of fresh air in Ugandan politics, we have to be realistic about how far his political project can go. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance. There has been dangerous talk about the role of the military in civilian rule during this election season in Brazil. It has been 33 years since Brazils military government gave up power and democratic elections were held. And its been 30 years since the country returned to democracy after the promulgation of its constitution. In these three decades, there have been many political ups and downs including the impeachment of two presidents but the political process has always observed the constitutional order. In recent weeks, however, as the new election season heated up, it seems the shadow of the military is creeping back onto the political scene in Brazil. The political polarisation and instability in the country have ushered a period of public unreason, similar to the one the United States experienced in 2016 which resulted in the election of Donald Trump. Like in the US, there is talk about draining the swamp and fighting corruption, but unlike the US, there have been some suggestions that Brazil needs the firm hand of the military in order to bring back stability and order. Jair Bolsonaro, a frontrunner in the presidential race and a former army officer, along with his supporters, seems to be at the centre of this increasingly worrying trend. Brazils political alternative: A military president The Brazilian political establishment has been struggling with major political crises over the past few years. Huge corruption scandals have shaken the very foundations of political institutions, feeding growing public anger which has often spilled into the streets. All major political parties have been tainted, including the Workers Party (PT), which suffered through the impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff and the jailing of its leader and former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Amid this crisis, Bolsonaro emerged as an alternative candidate, preaching quick and heavy-handed solutions and appealing to the strong anti-PT sentiment in the country. He is currently leading in the polls, with a recent projection of a runoff between him and the PT candidate Fernando Haddad showing him winning by two percentage points. With his military background and conservative rhetoric, Bolsonaro remains quite popular despite being seen as a far-right candidate. He has not shied away from insulting minorities, women, and gay people and publicly praising the military government. He has even declared the notorious head of the Doi-Codi intelligence service, Colonel Carlos Alberto Brilhante Ustra, who oversaw the torture and killing of political prisoners in the 1970s, his personal friend and a Brazilian hero. Bolsonaros running mate is retired general Hamilton Mourao who has equally, if not more, controversial views. He recently defended the possibility of an auto-coup if anarchy erupts when the duo is elected. He has also said that Brazil needs a new constitution to be written by a commission of unelected notable people and that having an elected constituent assembly write the 1988 constitution was a mistake. Bolsonaro also has a number of reserve generals working on his campaign programme, he is contact with the defence minister and the army leadership, and has many officers privately and openly supporting him. There are even WhatsApp groups of military personnel who are actively promoting his campaign. At the same time, the military leadership has demonstrated their resentment of the PT and Lula and pressured the Federal Supreme Court not to rule in his favour of his appeals to be released from prison. There have also been reports that there is growing discontent among high and low-ranking military officers triggered by recent protests and strikes, which they see as anarchy. These reports and public comments by military leaders are gravely unsettling and it seems that however this election goes, the military is likely to get involved directly or indirectly. If Bolsonaro wins, he is likely to ingratiate himself with the militarys top brass and push forward with regressive policies undermining Brazils democracy, resurrecting various aspects of the military junta, or even undertaking a Fujimori-style auto-coup assuming full legislative and judicial powers. If Haddad wins, the military might not accept his victory; what that would translate into is anyones guess. Nostalgia for the junta During the twentieth century, Brazil witnessed nine coups, four of them successful, with the last one installing a military government that ruled with violence and cruelty for 21 years. Thirty years have passed since then enough time for retrospection, objective historical evaluation, and a public debate to be held on what happened during those decades. Instead, many Brazilians seem to be confused about the history of the military government to the point that today, there is a frightening revisionist trend. According to a June 2017 opinion poll, 43 percent of respondents trust fully the army, while another 40 percent trusted it a little, and only 15 percent did not trust the institution at all. Another survey released in September last year indicated that a staggering 43 percent of Brazilians are in favour of the military intervening in government affairs. This nostalgia for the military government should be seen within the context of the ongoing crisis in Brazil. The corruption scandals, the protests, the violence in the streets, and the deteriorating economic situation have pushed many to think that the country needs rule by an iron fist. A government with a more authoritarian approach would be able to solve the problems the country is currently facing with greater efficiency and ease, some think. And the only institution capable of that is the army, which is largely seen as immune to corruption. It is not uncommon to read on social media that there was no corruption during the military dictatorship and that all public services were better back then. But those who have adopted this type of thinking especially the youth who have no memory of the bloody violence of the 1970s and 1980s do not realise the consequences of supporting the involvement of the military in civilian power. And part of the reason for this is because Brazil never went through a proper legal process to bring to justice those responsible for the crimes committed by the military government whether forced disappearances, torture and killings, or corruption, embezzlement and illegal self-enrichment. This very much has allowed historical revisionism and continued politicisation of the army. Brazil needs to snap out of this delusion that the military can fix the country and that the order of military rule is better than the chaos of democracy. In fact, we should follow the example of Uruguay, which recently detained the head of its armed forces for publicly criticising a draft law. It is the duty of the army and its officers to follow the orders of civilian power, to submit to the people and to their institutions. They have no place in government. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance. Aung San Suu Kyi becomes the first person to have her honorary Canadian citizenship revoked over Rohingya genocide. Canadas parliament formally stripped Aung San Suu Kyi of her honorary Canadian citizenship for complicity in the atrocities committed against Myanmars Rohingya. Aung San Suu Kyi became the first person to have her honorary Canadian citizenship revoked on Tuesday. The Senate voted unanimously to strip Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmars civilian leader, of the symbolic honour bestowed on her in 2007. The upper houses move follows a similar unanimous vote in the House of Commons last week. A United Nations fact-finding mission reported last month Myanmars military has systematically killed thousands of Rohingya civilians, burned hundreds of their villages, and engaged in ethnic cleansing and mass gang rape. It called for top generals to be investigated and prosecuted for genocide. The Senate has also followed the lead of the Commons in recognising that the crimes against humanity committed by the Myanmar military against the Rohingya constitute a genocide. We must recognise this atrocity for what it is, said Senator Ratna Omidvar, who introduced the motion to revoke Aung San Suu Kyis citizenship on Tuesday. It is genocide. We must call it as it is. Shining light Aung San Suu Kyi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for her fight for democracy in Myanmar. At that point, she was a champion for change and human rights The world pinned its hope on her as the shining light and hope for a democratic and peaceful Myanmar, said Omidvar. As we all now know, that was not to be. Omidvar said Aung San Suu Kyi has denied the atrocities, restricted access to international investigators and journalists, defended the military, and denied humanitarian aid for the Rohingya. We need to send a strong signal here in Canada and around the world that if youre an accomplice of genocide, you are not welcome here. Certainly not as an honorary Canadian citizen. Four men linked to far-right Rise Above Movement accused of intent to incite a riot at deadly 2017 Unite the Right rally Four men linked to a white supremacist group were arrested on Tuesday in connection with the far-right rally that turned deadly in Charlottesville, Virginia, last year, authorities said. Benjamin Drake Daley, 25, Michael Paul Miselis, 29, Thomas Walter Gillen, 34, and Cole Evan White, 24, were arrested in California and were to be transported to Charlottesville after making initial appearances in federal courts in California on Tuesday, US Attorney Thomas Cullen said at a news conference. They were each charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the federal riots statute and one count of violating the federal riots statute. US Justice Department officials said the men had travelled from California to incite a riot and bring violence to the August 2017 rally in the Virginia college town. They said the men were part of an organised, militant white supremacist group, named in the criminal complaint as the Rise Above Movement (RAM). According to ProPublica, RAM claims to have more than 50 members with the purpose of physically attacking its ideological foes. {articleGUID} Each man arrested on Tuesday faces 10 years in prison if found guilty, according to authorities. Cullen said he expected a trial could start as soon as the end of the year. Authorities decided the mens alleged activities could be prosecuted under a federal statute on riots, instead of laws prohibiting hate crimes, but Cullen said there may be other charges against them. According to the criminal complaint, which was filed under seal in August, the FBI used open-source research, including the Rise Above Movements public Twitter page, to help investigate the four defendants. Hate groups on rise Hundreds of white supremacists, neo-Nazis and other members of the far right descended on Charlottesville in August 2017 to protest the removal of a statue honouring Robert E Lee, a commander of the Confederate Army in the US Civil War, in what was billed as a Unite the Right rally. {articleGUID} Counterdemonstrators met the far-right protesters, sometimes clashing. The rally turned deadly when a man, seen marching with a neo-Nazi group earlier in the day, drove his car into a group of counterdemonstrators, leaving 32-year-old Heather Heyer dead and dozens injured. James Alex Fields Jr was charged with a slew of crimes, including federal hate crimes. He pleaded not guilty. At the time of the rally, President Donald Trump was condemned by Democratic and Republican political leaders for saying that many sides were to blame for the violence. According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, an Alabama-based watch group, the number of hate groups operating in the US grew by four percent in 2017. The SPLC identified 954 hate groups in the US last year, an increase from the 917 it had documented in 2016, the group said in a report released in February. The Nobel Prize in chemistry will be shared by Frances H Arnold, George P Smith and Sir Gregory P Winter for their work on developing proteins that solve humankinds chemical problems, the Royal Swedish Academy has announced. Half of the 9-million-kronor ($1.01m) prize was designated for Frances Arnold of Caltech in Pasadena for conducting the first directed evolution of enzymes, leading to more environment-friendly manufacturing of chemicals, including drugs, and in the production of renewable fuels. The other half of the prize will be shared by George Smith of the University of Missouri and Gregory Winter of the MRC Laboratory in Cambridge. They were honoured for phage display of peptides and antibodies. The Nobel Laureates have taken control of evolution and used it for purposes that bring the greatest benefits to humankind, the committee said on its website on Tuesday. This years Chemistry Laureates have taken control of evolution and used the same principles genetic change and selection to develop proteins that solve humankinds chemical problems. #NobelPrize pic.twitter.com/rDKc2YwLgb The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 3, 2018 The first drug based on this work is used against rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease, the academy said. Frances Arnold becomes the fifth woman to win the Nobel prize in Chemistry. Twenty-five years ago, it was considered the lunatic fringe. Scientists didnt do that. Gentlemen didnt do that. But since Im an engineer and not a gentleman, I had no problem with that, Arnold said in an interview in 2014. Nobel chemistry laureate George Smith, reached at his home in Columbia, Missouri, was quick to credit the work of others in his prize. Pretty much every Nobel laureate understands that what hes getting the prize for is built on many precedents, a great number of ideas and research that he is exploiting because he is at the right place at the right time, he told The Associated Press. Very few research breakthroughs are novel. Virtually all of them build on what went on before. Its happenstance. That was certainly the case with my work. Mine was an idea in a line of research that built very naturally on the lines of research that went before. Frances Arnold, awarded the 2018 #NobelPrize, conducted the first directed evolution of enzymes, which are proteins that catalyse chemical reactions. Enzymes produced through directed evolution are used to manufacture everything from biofuels to pharmaceuticals.@francesarnold pic.twitter.com/TGRxgjEHzv The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 3, 2018 Chemistry is the third of this years Nobels and comes after the prizes for Medicine and Physics were awarded earlier this week. The winner of the Nobel Peace Prize is to be announced on Friday. No literature prize will be awarded this year. The Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences, honouring the man who endowed the five Nobel Prizes, will be revealed on Monday. The medicine prize was awarded Monday to American and Japanese researchers. Scientists from the United States, Canada and France shared the physics prize on Tuesday. Saudi writer Jamal Khashoggi went missing after visiting Saudi consulate in Istanbul to sort out paper work. Saudi and Turkish officials have made conflicting statements on the whereabouts of a prominent journalist who has reportedly gone missing while visiting the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Jamal Khashoggi, a Saudi dissident critical of the countrys crown prince, entered the consulates premises at around 1pm (10:00 GMT) on Tuesday in what seemed to be a routine visit to sort out paperwork, before disappearing. Turkeys presidential spokesperson said on Wednesday that Khashoggi remains inside the Saudi consulate, a day after his fiancee reported he had failed to emerge from a meeting in the mission. According to information we have, this individual who is a Saudi national is still at the consulate as of now, Ibrahim Kalin said. {articleGUID} He also said that Turkish authorities were in contact with Saudi officials and he hoped the situation would be resolved. In contrast, a Saudi official quoted by Reuters news agency said the journalist was not in the consulate nor in Saudi custody. Mr Khashoggi visited the consulate to request paperwork related to his marital status and exited shortly thereafter, the official said. The US State Department said on Wednesday that it was monitoring and seeking information on Khashoggis disappearance. We are closely following reports of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggis disappearance and continue to seek information, a State Department official said. Khashoggi, who has been living in self-exile in the United States, is a prominent columnist for the Washington Post. He has long criticised the Saudi governments reform programme under the auspices of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Fiancee calls police His fiancee who requested anonymity told the Post she accompanied him but waited outside and called the police when Khashoggi did not emerge after the consulate closed. {articleGUID} Khashoggi, who once acted as an adviser to the Saudi royal family, fled Saudi Arabia in September of last year amid a crackdown on the kingdoms intellectuals and journalists. He told Al Jazeeras UpFront in March there was no room left for debate in Saudi Arabia, with citizens rounded up and jailed for questioning the governments policies. As we speak today, there [are] Saudi intellectuals and journalists jailed. Now, nobody will dare to speak and criticise the reforms [initiated by the crown prince], he said, adding it would be much better for him to allow a breathing space for critics, for Saudi intellectuals, Saudi writers, Saudi media to debate. By Moses Kyeyune. The Uganda Police Force is yet to make any leads in the hunt for murder suspects of former Arua Municiplaity MP Ibrahim Abiriga and Joan Kagezi a former prosecutor. Abiriga was murdered in cold blood in June this year while Kagezi was killed in similar circumstances three years ago. In his submission t parliaments Human Rights Committee, the deputy Inspector General of Police Sabiiti Muzeyi says that the hunt is till ongoing. For Abirigas case, Muzeyi says that a forensic audit of exhibits at the crime scene is still ongoing with a view of identifying suspects while for Kagezi, the deputy police boss says that there are specific leads being followed regarding the main suspect. Mukono Municipality MP Betty Nambooze is among the suspects in court over the brutal killing of Abiriga. The ICJ orders the United States to lift sanctions linked to humanitarian concerns, in a move welcomed by Tehran. The United Nations top court has issued an interim order to the United States to lift sanctions linked to humanitarian goods and civil aviation imposed against Iran a move welcomed by Tehran. On humanitarian grounds, the US must remove by means of its choosing any impediment to the free exportation to Iran of goods involving humanitarian concerns, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) said in its ruling on Wednesday. The ICJs rulings are binding, but it has no power to enforce them. The decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the US sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel, Irans foreign ministry said in a statement. Tehran had urged the ICJ, also known as the World Court, to order Washington to suspend the sanctions temporarily while it hears Irans case in full, a process that could take years. Al Jazeeras Zein Basravi, reporting from Tehran, said that in essence, the ICJ decision is not exactly what the Iranians wanted, nor is it what the US wanted. Iranians would have wanted a complete lifting of all of the sanctions, Basravi said. They [ICJ judges] talked about parts and equipment for civil aviation which has been a source of a lot of strife in Iran, he said. Even though this courts rulings cannot be appealed and they are binding, there is no way to enforce it especially now that the US has left the court, Basravi said. International criticism Tehran had also argued that the sanctions imposed since May by US President Donald Trumps administration violate the terms of their 1955 Treaty of Amity. Washington says that Irans request is an attempt to misuse the court. Iran has invoked a little-known 1955 Treaty of Amity that was signed before Irans 1979 Islamic Revolution, which caused a sharp deterioration in bilateral ties that has endured until today. US State Department Legal Adviser Jennifer Newstead argued during oral hearings last month that the 1955 treaty specifically rules out using courts to resolve disputes. Irans real quarrel, she argued, is not within the courts jurisdiction, but Irans frustration over President Trumps plan to pull out of a 2015 landmark agreement between Iran, the US and five world powers. That pact saw sanctions against Tehran lifted in return for curbs on its nuclear programme. But the Trump administration withdrew from the agreement in May and announced unilateral plans to restore sanctions against Tehran. The US move has been opposed by other major powers, the United Kingdom, Russia, France, China, Germany and the European Union, which helped negotiate the deal. Iran says the US sanctions, which have prompted many foreign companies to stop doing business with it and are undermining its already weak economy, violate the terms of the 1955 treaty. According to Luciano Zaccara, a researcher specialised in Iranian politics at Qatar University, the ICJ ruling is great news for the nuclear deal. For sure it can contribute to make things easier for the EU to implement the vehicle for payments and transactions that can make the deal to survive, Zaccara told Al Jazeera. But I am not quite sure that Trump administration will change anything on their policy towards Iran because of this decision They will not recognise the jurisdiction of the ICJ on US foreign policy. Last month, the EU decided to set up a new mechanism to enable legal trade with Iran without encountering US sanctions. Despite international criticism, Washington is pushing ahead with a new series of sanctions, due to go into effect on November 4. Gaza health ministry says 24 others were wounded after Israeli forces fired live bullets and tear gas at protesters. A Palestinian teenager was killed by an Israeli gas canister that was fired at a protest along the enclaves northern border with Israel, Gazas health authorities said. {articleGUID} Ministry of Health spokesperson, Ashraf al-Qidra, said that Ahmed Abu Habel, 15, died on Wednesday when the tear gas canister hit him in the head near a checkpoint between Israel and the Gaza Strip. Twenty-four others were injured, al-Qidra added. Israels military did not comment on the specific incident but a spokesperson told AFP news agency that soldiers had fired live rounds in accordance with the rules of engagement as protesters massed along the border. The incident follows months of demonstrations by Gazans along the border fence with Israel, demanding their right to their ancestral lands from which they were expelled 70 years ago. The Great March of Return rallies culminated on May 15 to mark what Palestinians refer to as the Nakba, or Catastrophe a reference to the forced removal of 750,000 Palestinians from their homes and villages to clear the way for Israels establishment in 1948. {articleGUID} So far, more than 195 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, one of the most densely populated places on earth. One Israeli soldier has been killed since the protests began on March 30. Last Friday, seven protesters were killed by Israeli gunfire, including a 12 and 14-year-old. This was the bloodiest day since May 14 when more than 60 Palestinians were killed in Gaza during protests against the inauguration of the US embassy in Jerusalem. Relief and rescue operations continue in Indonesia after a massive earthquake and tsunami struck Sulawesi Island killing at least 1,948 people, according to the Indonesian National Board for Disaster Management which raised the death toll on Monday. More than 70,000 homes were destroyed or damaged by the magnitude 7.5 quake that struck on September 28, launching waves as high as six metres that slammed into Sulawesi at 800 km/h. More than 2,500 people were injured and almost 75,000 displaced. Live updates: Children clean up schools Children in Palu have started going back to school on Monday to tidy up their classrooms a10 days after a major earthquake and tsunami hit their city. One school principal Kasiludin said authorities told all teachers to show up for work from Monday to collect information on the number of students returning to schools. We wont force the students to come back because many are traumatised. But we must start again soon to keep their spirits up and so they dont fall behind, he said. At the SMP Negeri, 15 Palu middle school, fewer than 50 of its 697 students showed up. Children in the Indonesian city of Palu began returning to school on Monday [Darren Whiteside/Reuters] Government to stop search for bodies on October 11 Indonesias government has said search efforts will continue until October 11, after which they hope people cant start living like normal. On Sunday, the death toll went up to 1,763, with 2,632 people seriously wounded. So far, 186 people have been rescued in liquefaction areas, where the earth shifted and swallowed up buildings and people. Government officials are currently considering designating some areas as mass graves as hopes of recovering bodies fade. On Sunday, Christians, who make up about 10 percent of Palus population, sought solace in sermons, Many traveled into the city in search of a church after their local place of worship was destroyed. As relief efforts finally began to reach remote areas, a clearer picture of the extent of the damage is starting to form. Almost 3,000 schools have been damaged, according to the Ministry of Education. Most of those worst hit are in the central Sigi district. Aid continues to arrive for Palu IDPs. [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] Devastated areas may be made mass graves On Saturday, Indonesias top security minister, Wiranto, said the government is considering designating Balaroa and Petobo two Palu neighbourhoods essentially wiped off the map as mass graves. Rescue efforts have halted as officials say there is little hope of finding survivors under the rubble after a week, but searches for remains continue. Petobo disappeared into the earth as the force of the quake liquified its soft soil. Liquefaction also struck a large section of Balaroa. Hundreds of bodies are thought to be buried beneath the ruins of the two towns. Wiranto said it is not safe for heavy equipment to operate there and that the government is in discussion with local and religious authorities, as well as the victims families, to halt search efforts and have these areas declared as mass graves, saying the victims can be considered martyrs. New public health warning issued Rescuers issued a fresh public health warning on Saturday as more decaying corpses were unearthed from beneath the ruined city of Palu. There are fears that vast numbers of bodies could be buried beneath Petobo and Balaroa two areas virtually wiped off the map. Most of the bodies we have found are not intact and that poses a danger for the rescuers. We have to be very careful to avoid contamination, Yusuf Latif, a spokesman for the countrys search and rescue effort told the AFP news agency. We have vaccinated our teams, but we need to be extra cautious as they are exposed to health hazards. This is also a health concern for the public. It is very hard to control the crowd people might be exposed to danger. Cancellations, delays and overbookings resulted in long queues at Palu airport [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] Also on Saturday, passengers faced a long wait at Palu airport due to cancellations, delays and overbooking of commercial flights, according to Al Jazeeras Ted Regencia who was reporting from the disaster-struck region. Some passengers, with bookings from Friday, were only accommodated by the airlines the following day. Parts of the city, meanwhile, were trying to return to normality, with some shops and food stalls opening and electricity restored. Parks become refugee camps In Palu, parks have become refugee camps for those whose houses have been destroyed and have nowhere else to go. Many are sleeping in the open, waiting for assistance. There is still a lack of basic supplies in the affected areas, including here in the heart of Palu city where people have been camping for a week, said Al Jazeeras Wayne Hay. Despite all the money from the Indonesian government and offers of assistance from foreign governments, no one has been able to supply these people with temporary toilets or adequate shelter, he said, reporting from Palu. Refugees say they are grateful for the land to sleep on, but they need more help. I can tell you there are some toilets over there, but they are full of excrement so I eat only once a day so I dont have to go, said Haji Ratnawati Tawaka, a Palu resident. UN seeks $50m for immediate disaster aid The United Nations has said it is seeking $50.5m for immediate relief to help victims of the devastating quake and tsunami in Indonesia. The UN plan, published on Friday and developed in consultation with Indonesian government officials, outlined how the humanitarian community working in the country will provide targeted, technical assistance. The UN plan aims to provide help to 191,000 people over the next three months, according to a statement by the global bodys Indonesia office. According to UN estimates, 65,000 homes have suffered some form of damage, a figure that includes 10,000 homes completely destroyed by the tsunami and 15,000 homes severely damaged by the earthquake. Mass prayer held for victims People attend a mass prayer for tsunami victims in Palu [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] Hundreds of people gathered at Talise beach in Palu on Friday to attend a mass prayer for the victims one week after disaster wreaked havoc in the Muslim island of Sulawesi. With many of the mosques completely destroyed by tsunami waves, Friday prayers were held outside in different parts of Palu city. Women attend a mass prayer for Palu at Talise beach for the one-week tsunami anniversary in Palu, Indonesia [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] I hope my dead son has gone to heaven because he was in the middle of praying, said Abu Shamsuddin, who attended the weekly prayers in the afternoon outside the damaged Agung Mosque. Allah willing, heaven for him. I have faith in that. Men in prayer caps sat on prayer mats in an open field, some weeping openly. Others braved the scorching sun as they listened to the mosques imam encouraging them to be courageous. Habib Saleh al-Idrus, the most popular Muslim cleric of central Sulawesi province, led a mass prayer marking the one week since the disaster struck Palu [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] 1,000 people may be buried in mud Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, Indonesias disaster management agency spokesman, said about 1,000 people may be buried in areas liquefied by the earthquake in Palu citys Balaroa and Petobo. The areas were swallowed by three-metre deep mud. READ MORE: Grief has no religion in Palu disaster Search-and-rescue operations have been hindered because the land is still too wet to manoeuvre on. So far, only 26 survivors have been found in Petobo and 48 in Balaroa. We will continue searching, Sutopo said. I'm standing in a portion of Balaroa district of #Palu devastated by a 7.5 magnitude quake. It's been a week since the disaster struck on Friday. Death toll so far is up to 1,400+. Nat'l disaster agency quoted village elders as saying over 1,000 people could still be missing. pic.twitter.com/vkYqrtKDZN Ted Regencia (@tedregencia) October 5, 2018 In the Palu neighbourhood of Balaroa, about 1,700 houses were buried when the earthquake caused soil to liquefy, the national rescue agency said. Liquefaction is a phenomenon where saturated sand and silt take on the characteristics of a liquid during the intense shaking of an earthquake. Among the more than 1,550 people killed in the quake-tsunami were 34 children at a Christian bible study camp that was hit by liquefaction. Volunteers carry out search and rescue operation at a Palu wedding hall where six people are believed to be trapped [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] No signs of life under Mercure hotel A French rescue team using high-tech equipment failed to find anyone alive under the rubble of a hotel in Indonesias central Sulawesi. A member of the French organisation, Pompiers de lurgence, said on Thursday the teams sensors detected the presence of a victim in the wreckage of the four-star Mercure Hotel in Palu. The device can pick up breathing and heartbeats, but the team also cautioned that gas leaks and other factors can result in false positives. On Friday, however, the resucers said no sign of life had been found by the equipment and the team was moving on to other areas. Yesterday we had a heart beat and sign of breathing, there were no other movements so it means it was someone who was motionless, confined, said Philippe Besson, president of the organisation. Today we have no signal. Rescue efforts since the September 28 quake have been greatly impeded by a shortage of heavy equipment. Authorities previously set a tentative deadline of Friday for finding anyone trapped under ruined buildings, although chances of pulling survivors alive from the rubble at such a late stage are almost zero. Search efforts focused on eight key locations on Friday, including a beach and the Balaroa area where the sheer force of the quake turned the earth temporarily to mush. We have to use heavy equipment now because it is very difficult to sift through the rubble by hand, Yusuf Latif, a spokesman for Indonesias search and rescue agency, told AFP news agency. Local military spokesman Muhammad Thohir said the death toll had risen to 1,558. Rismawati Hutauruk, 63, was buried after falling into a crevice that opened up during the quake [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] Relief efforts kick into full gear After days of delays, international aid has finally started to arrive in the disaster zone, where the UN says almost 200,000 people are in need of humanitarian assistance. Survivors have ransacked shops and supply trucks in the hunt for basic necessities, prompting security forces to round up dozens of suspected looters and warn that they were prepared to open fire on thieves. About 20 planes carrying vital supplies such as tarpaulins, medical equipment and generators are now heading from all over the world to the disaster zone after a long delay. Indonesia was initially reluctant to accept outside help, insisting its own military could handle the response, but as the scale of the devastation became clearer, President Joko Widodo agreed to allow in foreign aid. Governments from Australia to Britain are flying in supplies, the United Nations has pledged $15m to the relief effort, and aid groups including Save the Children and the Red Cross are also on the ground. There were signs of life returning to normal, with children playing in the streets, music blaring out of radios and electricity back up and running in most places. Things are improving, Azhari Samad, a 56-year-old insurance salesman, told AFP at a mosque in Palu. But for the area to recover fully from the disaster will take years, he added. The first six months will be traumatic, maybe in one year we have some progress. The government will help, people will help from all over the country. Indonesians have a big heart. Electricity restored in Palu Power was restored and some shops reopened in Indonesias disaster-stricken city of Palu, The Associated Press said on Thursday. Traffic lights and televisions flickered back to life in the small city of 370,000 people, which has been the focus of the aid effort launched after last Fridays magnitude 7.5 earthquake and tsunami on the west coast of Sulawesi island. While international help in searching for survivors has gathered pace, communities in more remote areas have been cut off by damaged roads, landslides and crippled communications. There are so many challenges with this disaster, its never been so bad, said Frida Sinta, an aid volunteer trying to get basic food and other supplies out to fellow residents of Palu. Scene in Donggala is of devastation Al Jazeeras Wayne Hay reports from Donggala, the first area hit by the tsunami, that aid has taken time to reach Donggala, as most of the rescue efforts after Fridays devastating disasters focused on Palu City. People have been complaining that they are being treated like second-class citizens here because they are not receiving the aid [other] areas have, Hay said. Slowly but surely, that is improving, the roads to Palu are opening so we are seeing some aid, some assistance, coming through here. There is no search and rescuing operation going on, there are still people missing but they assume that these people have now been swept off to sea and will not be seen again. Hay added: The scene in Donggala is of devastation in the small, peaceful and once-picturesque fishing villages. As the tsunami came through here, it took absolutely everything with it. Peoples homes, businesses and their livelihood, as the wave swept through here, into the bay towards Palu city itself. Officially, the death toll is just over 150 people, relatively low considering the number of people who live here and the size of the wave that came here That is because a lot of people simply escaped up onto some pretty high hills More than 600,000 children affected At least 600,000 children have been affected by the quake, Save the Children said, with many sleeping on the streets among ruins. Its hard to imagine a more frightening situation for a child, said Zubedy Koteng, the groups child protection adviser. Many children are in shock and traumatised, alone and afraid. Young children searching for surviving relatives will have witnessed and lived through horrific experiences which no child should ever have to see. People arrested for looting At least 92 people have been arrested for looting in areas devastated by the earthquake. Local television reported that the people arrested for looting were caught with goods including motor oil, tires, ceramic tiles, and farming equipment. They were from Palu and the surrounding districts struck by the disasters. Al Jazeeras Ted Regencia, reporting from the Balaroa area in Palu, witnessed a man armed with a katana being arrested by the Indonesian army for stealing motorcycle spare parts. The Indonesian army arrested a man for stealing motorcycle spare parts and confiscated the sword he was armed with [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] Indonesian troops prepared to shoot looters as desperation grows Indonesias military said it will shoot looters in the earthquake and tsunami-ravaged province of Sulawesi after desperate survivors emptied shops of food and water. Signs of desperation are growing with police officers forced to fire warning shots and tear gas to ward off people ransacking businesses. With food and clean water in short supply, survivors are battling thirst and hunger. If there is looting again, we will quickly fire a warning shot and then shoot to immobilise, Colonel Ida Dewa Agung Hadisaputra told AFP news agency. According to the UNs humanitarian office, almost 200,000 people need urgent help, among them tens of thousands of children. Officials on the ground said while the government had invited offers of foreign help, there is still no mechanism for this to be implemented. Volunteers continue to recover bodies on Thursday in the Petobo area of Palu [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] Denny Liem, 41, owner of the Roa Roa Hotel, said among 30 people believed trapped is a Korean member of a paragliding team [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] Foreign aid picks up for Indonesias desperate quake survivors International efforts to help survivors of Indonesias devastating earthquake and tsunami gathered pace on Thursday. Desperate residents on the west coast of Sulawesi island were scavenging for food in farms and orchards as the government struggled to overcome shortages of water, food, shelter and fuel in a disaster zone with no power and degraded communications. The government of Indonesia is experienced and well-equipped in managing natural disasters, but sometimes, as with all other countries, outside help is also needed, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Mark Lowcock said in a statement. He announced an allocation of $15m. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said it was appealing for $22m to help Indonesia. Some aid from the UK and Australia as also due to arrive on Thursday. In all, about 20 countries have offered help. More than 66,000 homes were destroyed or damaged by the magnitude-7.5 quake and the tsunami it spawned on Friday [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] Slow arrival of aid frustrates survivors A trickle of emergency aid is only now reaching parts of Sulawesi island and some increasingly desperate survivors are taking matters into their own hands. Climbing over reeking piles of sodden food and debris, a crowd on Wednesday searched a wrecked warehouse for anything they could salvage: cans of condensed milk, soft drinks, rice, candy and painkillers. We came here because we heard there was food, Rehanna, a 23-year-old student wearing a red motorcycle helmet, told the Associated Press news agency. We need clean water, rice. Children eat outside their tent for safety reasons after the earthquake in Biromaru village in Sigi [Beawiharta/Reuters] Women line up to buy rationed cooking gas in Palu. [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] Its impossible shes alive Palu resident Rikardi Safarudin found the house his mother was in when the tsunami hit the small city on Friday. The house was among those carried hundreds of metres by the waves of mud. Looking at all this I know, really, its impossible shes alive, he told Al Jazeera. But I cant quite bring myself to give up hope. Influx of aid and humanitarian workers at Palu airport Aeroplanes bringing in aid supplies, humanitarian workers and volunteers from different countries continued to land at the Palu airport late on Wednesday. Weve seen them arrive with their own cargo of medical assistance and kits that theyve brought in, said Al Jazeeras Jamila Alindogan, reporting from the Palu airport. Were also seeing an influx of forces, presence of the military as signs of reassurance from the government that life can be picked up here again and that security is very much in place, she added. With many areas inaccessible and blocked, machines to clear the debris have also been brought in, Alindogan reported. There are areas that remain closed off, where many civilians are still believed to be trapped, and this is a logistical issue, she said. President Widodo: We want to revive economic activity Indonesian President Joko Widodo has said that the evacuation process, cleaning and the search for victims in the quake-hit city of Palu are going according to plan. On his second visit to the affected area on Wednesday, Widodo stressed that the government wants to immediately revive economic activity in markets and shops. The first step is evacuating, after that is rehabilitation and reconstruction, he told Al Jazeeras Andrew Thomas in Palu. During his visit, Widodo scanned different areas of devastation within the city, met some of the evacuees and went to a hospital. His presence here signals that the government is in full control, said Al Jazeeras Alindogan. It is going to be a long process, but the government is basically assuring the people of Indonesia that they are in charge and you can see that just by how things are moving here at the airport, she added. Survivors in Donggala district are desperate for food and water, say aid workers [Athit Perawongmetha/ Reuters] Were on our last legs: Survivors in Donggala plead for help Survivors in Donggala, a region of 300,000 people north of Palu and closer to the epicentre of Fridays earthquake, said they were scavenging for food in farms. Johnny Lim, a restaurant owner reached by telephone in Donggala town, told Reuters he was surviving on coconuts. Its a zombie town. Everythings destroyed. Nothings left, Lim said over a crackling line. Were on our last legs. Theres no food, no water. In another part of Donggala, Ahmad Derajat said survivors were scavenging for food in fields and orchards. What were relying on right now is food from farms and sharing whatever we find like sweet potatoes or bananas, said Derajat whose house was swept away by the tsunami, leaving a jumble of furniture, collapsed tin roofs and wooden beams. Why arent they dropping aid by helicopter? he asked. Aid worker Lian Gogali described a perilous situation in Donggala, which includes a string of cut-off, small towns along a coast road north of Palu. Everyone is desperate for food and water. Theres no food, water, or gasoline. The government is missing, Gogali told Reuters. She added that her aid group had only been able to send in a trickle of rations by motorbike. The official death toll from the magnitude 7.5 earthquake and tsunami that hit the west coast of Sulawesi island has passed 1,407. But officials fear the toll could soar, as most of the confirmed dead have come from Palu, a small city 1,500 km northeast of Jakarta and losses in remote areas remain unknown, as communications are down and bridges and roads have been destroyed or blocked by landslides. Soputan spewed a column of ash more than 6000m into the air [Handout/ Indonesias national disaster agency/AFP] No casualties from Sulawesi volcano eruption A volcano that erupted on Wednesday on disaster-struck Sulawesi island did not cause any additional casualties, Indonesias National Disaster Agency said. Mount Soputan, at the northern tip of Sulawesi Island, spewed a massive column of ash more than 6,000 metres into the air, but did not affect any residential areas, said Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, spokesperson for the agency. There were no casualties, he told reporters in Jakarta. The danger zone is only in the radius of four kilometres from the volcano peak. Within the four kilometre radius, there are no residential areas. He dismissed concerns that the volcanos eruption could affect planes transporting aid and supplies to the quake disaster areas in and around the city of Palu. The volcanic ash from Mt Soputan did not head toward the airport in Palu, so it did not disrupt the airport and evacuation activities there, he said. Disaster victims forage for food as aid trickles in Residents in one Palu neighbourhood that was devastated by the twin quake-tsunami disaster clapped and cheered in excitement on Wednesday when a truck laden with supplies came in to their area. Im so happy, said 63-year-old Heruwanto, while clutching a box of instant noodles. I really havent eaten for three days, he told The Associated Press news agency. Elsewhere in the city, desperate people searched for anything edible in the shell of a warehouse that tsunami waves pounded. People pulled out small cartons of milk, soft drinks, rice, sweets and painkillers from piles of sodden goods. Andi Arif told AP he was looking for medicine and food for his children. There is some aid but we never got it, he said, referring to government aid. Victims of earthquake and tsunami are being evacuated from Palu airport [Athit Perawongmetha] More than 25 countries have offered assistance after Indonesian President Joko Widodo appealed for international help. Little of that, however, has reached the disaster zone. Al Jazeeras Wayne Hay, reporting from the airport at Palu, the largest city heavily damaged by Fridays disaster, said there was no shortage of aid coming in. We are seeing medical supplies, food, water and body bags come in. But much of the aid does seem to be sitting at the airport and not getting out fast enough to the areas that need it most, he said. An aircraft carrying 12,000 litres of fuel had arrived, and trucks with food were on the way with police escorts to guard against looters. Many gas stations were inoperable, either because of quake damage or because of people stealing fuel, national disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said in Jakarta. Emergency supplies are yet to reach some of the hardest-hit areas [Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters] Indonesian military chief Hadi Tjahyanto said one armed soldier and one armed police officer would be placed on every aid truck and soldiers would be sent to secure markets, the airport and fuel depots to maintain order. He added that a Singaporean military transport plane will help evacuate victims from the airport in Palu. Australia announced it will send 50 medical professionals as part of a $3.6m aid package. The United States and China are among other countries that have offered assistance. At the quake zone, water is the main issue because most of the supply infrastructure has been damaged, UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters at UN headquarters in New York. Haq said the Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has asked the UN childrens agency, UNICEF, to send social workers to the affected area to support children who are alone or became separated from their families. And he said the World Health Organization is warning that a lack of shelter and damaged water sanitation facilities could lead to outbreaks of communicable diseases. The Indonesia-based ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance said that more body bags were urgently needed as fears grow that decomposing corpses could provide a breeding ground for deadly diseases. Quake, tsunami toll raised to 1,407 The death toll has increased to 1,407, according to Indonesias disaster agency. Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, spokesperson for the national disaster agency, said on Wednesday that 519 bodies have been buried as rescue workers scrambled to locate survivors around the ravaged city of Palu. Underlining the growing sense of urgency, Indonesian President Joko Widodo made his second visit to the disaster zone on Wednesday, putting on an orange hard hat to talk to rescue workers at a collapsed Palu hotel. What Ive observed after returning now is heavy equipment has arrived, logistics have started to arrive although its not at maximum yet, fuel has partly arrived, Widodo told reporters. The president called for reinforcements in the search for victims, after inspecting what he called an evacuation effort at the Hotel Roa Roa, where he said some 30 people lay buried in the ruins. Joko Widodo made his second visit to the disaster zone on Wednesday [Tatan Syuflana/AP] Well continue this process so all the victims can be retrieved, he said. Rescue workers were scrambling on Wednesday to locate survivors around the ravaged seaside city of Palu, with officials saying they are racing against time to find anyone alive. Rescuers were focusing on half a dozen key sites around Palu the Hotel Roa-Roa where up to 60 people are still believed buried, a shopping mall, a restaurant and the Balaroa area where the sheer force of the quake temporarily liquified the earth. Authorities set a tentative deadline of Friday to find anyone still trapped under the rubble, at which point, the chances of finding survivors will dwindle to almost zero. At Palus stricken airport, hundreds of victims were waiting to board Indonesian military transport planes to be evacuated to Makassar, capital of South Sulawesi province. The injured and those with children received priority seating on the Hercules C-130 aircraft. The evacuation was orderly and there was no panic. But they obviously looked tired and stressed out, Al Jazeeras Ted Regencia reported from the scene. Outside Palus Mutiara Al Jufri Airport, hundreds of others were camped out, some receiving medical treatment, others awaiting a chance to escape. There was mounting concern over Donggala, a region of 300,000 people north of Palu and closer to the epicentre, and two other districts with a combined population of about 1.4 million. Initial reports from Red Cross rescuers who reached the outskirts of Donggala district were chilling. The situation in the affected areas is nightmarish, Jan Gelfand, head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) office in Jakarta, said in a statement. The city of Palu has been devastated and first reports out of Donggala indicate that it has also been hit extremely hard by the double disaster. A look at one of the most divisive battles of US President Donald Trumps presidency. Washington, DC In one of the most divisive political battles of President Donald Trumps presidency, US Republicans are moving forward with a risky showdown vote on the Supreme Court nomination of Brett Kavanaugh following accusations that the judge sexually assaulted Christine Blasey Ford when they were both teenagers. Kavanaugh, who has denied the allegations, appeared to be on the fast-track towards being nominated until Fords accusations came to light last month. After a highly-emotional public hearing and an FBI probe, the judges confirmation now seems to be all but certain, but how did we get here and what happens next? How did we get here? Trump nominated Kavanaugh to replace retiring Justice Anthony Kennedy on July 9. According to sworn testimony, Ford called her congressional representative three days before the nomination was announced, saying one of the candidates on the presidents short list had sexually assaulted her when they were teenagers. She also called the Washington Posts confidential tip line with the information but did not provide her name. {articleGUID} After the nomination was announced, Ford met the staff of California Congresswoman Anna Eshoo on two separate occasions, the professor said in her testimony. They discussed sending a letter to Democrat Diane Feinstein about the allegations. On July 30, Ford sent the letter to Feinstein, who is also the most senior Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee. Ford requested that what she shared remain confidential. Meanwhile, Kavanaugh began holding individual meetings with members of the Senate. On September 4, Kavanaughs confirmation hearings in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee began. After reports began to surface about the letter sent to Feinstein, the senator released a statement on September 13, saying that she had referred the matter to investigative authorities, adding that the individual [giving the information] strongly requested confidentiality, declined to come forward or press the matter further, and I have honored that decision. Kavanaugh issued a statement on September 14 after contents of the letter began to surface in the media. He said he categorically and unequivocally denied the allegations. I did not do this back in high school or at any time, he said. On September 16, Ford revealed herself as the letters author in a Washington Post article, describing the alleged assault. According to her, Ford said she chose to come forward because it became clear several journalists learned her identity. Both Ford and Kavanaugh said that they would be willing to testify before the Senate Judiciary panel about the allegations, and pressure to delay the panels scheduled September 20 vote on Kavanaughs confirmation began to mount. Christine Blasey Ford is sworn in before testifying to the Senate Judiciary Committee [Win McNamee/Reuters] On September 23, the Senate Judiciary Committees Republican leadership announced it was delaying its vote on the nomination, scheduling a hearing for the following week to hear from both Kavanaugh and Ford. New allegations against Kavanaugh also surfaced. Deborah Ramirez, 53, a classmate at Yale University in 1983-84 told The New Yorker magazine that Kavanaugh exposed himself to her without her consent during a drunken party. Kavanaugh denied the allegations. On September 26, Kavanaugh released calendars from the summer of 1982 that he said disputed Fords story. Later that day, Julie Swetnick, who said she knew Kavanaugh during the 1980s, accused the nominee of engaging in highly inappropriate conduct, including being overly aggressive with girls, according to a declaration shared by her lawyer Michael Avenatti. Other more serious allegations were also made. The next day, Ford and Kavanaugh testified separately before the Senate panel. The emotional testimonies were watched live on television by an estimated 20 million viewers. Social media exploded with commentary as hundreds of thousands of women and men came forward with stories of unreported sexual assault under #WhyIDidntReport and #BelieveSurvivors. Hundreds of women protesting Kavanaughs nomination were arrested by US Capitol Police. Protesters gather for a really against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh in Boston [File: Brian Snyder/Reuters] Republicans questioned why Feinstein didnt go to the FBI sooner, while Democrats called for a delay in the vote to allow for a full FBI investigation. Less than 24 hours after the hearing, the Senate committee voted to back Kavanaughs nomination, but not before a last-minute demand by Republican Jeff Flake. Flake cast his decisive vote in favour of Kavanaugh only after asking the panel to request the Trump administration pursue an FBI probe into the allegations. Later that evening, Trump ordered the investigation but said it should not take longer than one week. What was the FBI investigation? The FBI conducted interviews with several individuals, including those who were said to have been at the gathering where the alleged assault took place. The FBI sent its report to the White House as well as the Senate Judiciary committee. Senators will review it in a secure room, according to Senate rules. {articleGUID} The probe has been criticised by Fords lawyers, who said in a letter to the FBI on Tuesday that their client had not received a response from anyone involved in the FBIs investigation. The letter added that it was inconceivable that the FBI could conclude its investigation without interviewing either Ford or the other witness whose names she provided. The FBI did speak to Ramirez, according to her lawyer. Democrats called the investigation very limited. Feinstein said the probe looks to be a product of an incomplete investigation. Most Republicans, however, seemed to be satisfied with the probe, with many calling it very thorough. McConnell said it did not corroborate any of the allegations against Kavanaugh. What happens next? In a procedural vote on Friday, the Senate voted 51-49 to end debate on Kavanaugh and advance the nomination for a final vote. Under Senate rules, there will be 30 hours of debate, which is divided equally between both parties. If neither party decides to use their allotted time, the vote could come sooner than 30 hours. There was speculation that the Republicans may have to hold open the vote into Saturday night or early Sunday morning to allow for Republican Senator Steve Daines of Montana to have time to come back to Washington, DC after his daughters wedding. It now appears, however, the Republicans have enough votes without Daines. The vote is expected sometime on Saturday afternoon. Fridays procedural vote cames even as Democrats raised doubts about Kavanaughs credibility and women across the US expressed anger and shared personal stories following the nationally televised testimony of Ford. Women are standing up, finally, and speaking their truth to power. And weve been silenced for so long, said Toni Van Pelt, president of the National Organization for Women, a liberal womens rights advocacy group with chapters in all 50 states. I dont think that Kavanaughs going to be confirmed, Van Pelt told Al Jazeera prior to Fridays vote. Women of this country are not going to allow that to happen. We are not stopping. We are not stopping storming the walls, storming the halls, storming the hearing rooms, tying up the phone lines, going out in our local hometown communities and demonstrating in front of federal buildings and these senators offices. No, we are not stopping. Do Republicans have the votes? Most Republicans rallied around Kavanaugh, appearing to conclude that Fords and the other womens accusations were part of a last-minute character assassination by Democrats determined to block Kavanaugh, or any other Trump nominee, from reaching the high court. {articleGUID} On Wednesday, McConnell accused the far left of trying to bully Kavanaugh, adding that theres no chance in the world theyre going to scare us out of doing our duty. Democrats accused the White House and Senate Republicans of limiting the FBIs investigation, even as classmates and former associates of Kavanaugh came forward to say he was a heavy drinker in college and law school and had misrepresented his past conduct in Senate testimony. This consistent dishonesty, disregard even distaste for the truth when it gets in the way of what he wants, in this case, a seat on the United States Supreme Court, this in itself should be disqualifying for any Supreme Court nominee, Senator Tammy Duckworth, an Illinois Democrat, told reporters. Three Republican senators were holding the key to Kavanaughs confirmation in the narrowly divided US Senate where Republicans hold only a 51-49 majority. Two of those senators Jeff Flake of Arizona and Susan Collins of Maine have now announced they will be voting in favour of Kavanaugh. Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski, however, hinted that she would vote against the nomination. Murkowskis hints put the nomination in jeopardy, but Democratic Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia announced he would be voting in favour of Kavanaugh. Prior to his decision on Friday, Manchin told Al Jazeera: This has been horrible. Its another circus. I am looking at the gentleman as an adult from 22 to 53, thirty-one years of professional service. I am looking at him as a father. As a person in a community, how he interacts with his community. I am trying to put the human side to it, Manchin said. In a statement on Friday, he said that he has reservations about Kavanaugh, but he is casting his vote on what is best for West Virginia. Manchin, who hails from a traditionally Republican state, is running for re-election in Novembers midterm elections. Democratic Senator Heidi Heitkamp, who was undecided until Thursday, announced she will be voting against Kavanaugh. Whats at stake? A successful Kavanaugh nomination would affect the balance of power between liberal and conservative jurists on the Supreme Court and likely the future direction of constitutional rights, including the right to an abortion guaranteed in the US under the 1973 landmark decision Roe v Wade. {articleGUID} If confirmed, Kavanaugh would replace retiring Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy, 82, a conservative jurist nominated by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 who as a swing vote on the court had supported womens rights, gay rights and human rights in a series of key decisions during his tenure. This next appointment is going affect immigration, healthcare, and national security matters that are impacting our community, said Abed Ayoub, national legal and policy director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, an advocacy group based in Washington. Someone appointed at his age, they are going to have a chance to shape policy for the next 20 or 30 years, he told Al Jazeera. A lot of cases that are currently at the court of appeals level could be used to roll back our rights. Either way, a confirmation or a rejection by the Senate coming just five weeks before national congressional elections is likely to send shock waves through the country. Rosmah Mansour could face up to 15 years in jail if convicted on charges, an MACC official said. The wife of former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, Rosmah Mansor, has been arrested by the countrys anti-graft agency over a multibillion-dollar scandal that helped bring down the government. Rosmah has been arrested, her lawyer K Kumaraendran told AFP news agency after she was questioned for hours at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on Wednesday. Investigations into the alleged looting of state fund 1MDB by an audacious international fraud ring have already seen her husband hit with more than two dozen charges, including corruption and money laundering. He is out on bail following his spectacular fall from power at the hands of a reformist alliance headed by Mahathir Mohamad which won the May elections. The MACC in a statement said it arrested Rosmah, 66, in relation to money laundering investigations after getting approval from state prosecutors. Following this, Rosmah will face a number of charges, it said, adding she will be brought to court early on Thursday to be charged. An MACC official said Rosmah could face up to 15 years in jail if convicted on each charge. She is expected to spend the night at the MACC headquarters located in the administrative capital Putrajaya, outside Kuala Lumpur. Rosmah, widely reviled in Malaysia due to her profligate spending while her husband was in power, arrived at the MACC headquarters in a two-car convoy late Wednesday morning. At the same time, her husband was also being questioned by police in a separate location in relation to the scandal. Najib, 65, has denied any wrongdoing despite revelations that hundreds of millions of dollars ended up in his personal bank accounts. Najib and Rosmah have been barred from leaving the country and enforcement agencies have relaunched a probe into how the 1MDB funds went missing. 1MDB is also the subject of money-laundering probes in at least six countries, including the United States, Switzerland and Singapore. Historic treaty says the UNs highest court has jurisdiction in issues pertaining to both countries bilateral relations. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has announced that the US is withdrawing from a 1955 treaty with Iran, just hours after the UNs highest court ordered Washington to ease sanctions against Tehran. Im announcing that the US is terminating the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue, Pompeo told reporters on Wednesday, referring to the date of the 1979 Islamic revolution. Earlier in the day, Iran welcomed the International Court of Justices (ICJ) ruling, stating that the decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the US sanctions against the people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel. The UN court ordered the US to lift sanctions linked to humanitarian goods and civil aviation. The ICJs rulings are binding, but the tribunal has no power to enforce them. The little-known treaty, signed in August 1955 roughly two years after the US-sponsored coup against Irans first democratically elected government of Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh stipulates that issues pertaining to both countries bilateral relations fall under the ICJs jurisdiction. Any dispute between the High Contracting Parties as to the interpretation or application of the present treaty, not satisfactorily adjusted by diplomacy shall be submitted to the International Court of Justice, unless the High Contracting Parties agree to settlement by some other pacific means. Iran took the US to the ICJ twice; first in 1988 over the downing of Iran Air flight 655 and the killing of all 290 people on board and in 1992 in relations to US attacks on Iranian oil rigs in 1987 and 1988. Tehran has argued that fresh sanctions imposed since May by President Donald Trumps administration violate the terms of the 1955 treaty. Washington says that Irans request is an attempt to misuse the court. US State Department Legal Adviser Jennifer Newstead argued during oral hearings last month that the treaty specifically rules out using courts to resolve disputes. Irans real quarrel, she argued, is not within the courts jurisdiction, but Irans frustration over Trumps plan to pull out of a 2015 landmark nuclear agreement between Iran, the US and five world powers. That pact, which has been defended by all of Washingtons European partners, saw sanctions against Tehran lifted in return for curbs on its nuclear programme. In his toughest remarks on the poisoning case to date, Russian president says Skripal is a traitor to the homeland. Russian President Vladimir Putin has branded former double agent Sergei Skripal a traitor and scumbag, saying Moscow knew he had cooperated with foreign intelligence after his release in a spy swap. He is just a scumbag, a visibly angry Putin told an energy forum in Moscow on Wednesday, referring to the former spy. Britain says Skripal was poisoned by members of Russias military intelligence using a Soviet-designed nerve agent in March, a claim that led to a diplomatic crisis between the two countries. {articleGUID} He is just a spy, a traitor to the homeland, Putin said in his toughest remarks about Skripal to date. He was caught, he was punished, he spent five years in prison, we let him go, he left and continued cooperating with, providing consultations to (foreign) security services, Putin said. Skripal, a former Russian military intelligence colonel, was found guilty of passing state secrets to the United Kingdom and sentenced to 13 years in prison in 2006. He was pardoned and released as part of a spy swap with the West in 2010. However, Putin once again laughed off British charges that two members of Russias GRU military intelligence service had sought to poison Skripal and his daughter Yulia with Novichok in the English city of Salisbury in March. The Skripals survived but a British couple, Dawn Sturgess and Charlie Rowley came into contact with the same nerve agent near Salisbury months later and Sturgess died. Putin dismissed the crisis in relations with Britain that led to the largest expulsion of Russian diplomats from the West since the Cold War as a row between security services. As we know, spying, like prostitution, is one of the worlds most important professions, Putin said, drawing applause from the audience. Putin dismisses allegations He, once again, denied the charges that Russia was behind poisoning Skripal, saying: No one had to poison anyone there (in Britain). Sometimes I look at what is happening around this case and am simply amazed. Last month, Putin called for the two men suspected by Britain of seeking to assassinate Skripal to appear on television, claiming that they were civilians. {articleGUID} In an interview with the Kremlin-funded RT channel, the two, who gave their names as Ruslan Boshirov and Alexander Petrov, said they went to Salisbury as tourists. Bellingcat, a Britain-based investigative group, said last week that Boshirov is, in fact, Anatoly Chepiga, a GRU colonel who has received Russias top award, the Hero of Russia. Moscow dismissed the report, saying there was no proof and the Kremlin said it would no longer discuss the subject with journalists. Quake victims flee devastated Indonesian city as hopes of finding survivors fade fast five days after disaster. Time was running out on Wednesday for anyone trapped in the debris of a devastating earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia, five days after disaster struck. The death toll on the island of Sulawesi climbed to 1,347, according to the countrys disaster management agency, as rescue teams scrambled to locate survivors. Authorities and aid workers struggled to reach the affected areas made inaccessible by damaged infrastructure. Palu, a small city about 1,500km northeast of the capital, Jakarta, and other parts of Sulawesi island were the hardest hit by Fridays magnitude-7.5 quake that triggered six-metre-high tsunami waves. At Palus stricken airport, about 300 victims attempted on Wednesday to board Indonesian military transport planes to be evacuated to Makassar, capital of South Sulawesi province. The injured and those with children received priority seating on the Hercules C-130 aircraft. The evacuation was orderly and there was no panic. But they obviously looked tired and stressed out, Al Jazeeras Ted Regencia reported from the scene. Outside Palus Mutiara Al Jufri Airport, hundreds of others were camped out, some receiving medical treatment, others awaiting a chance to escape. About 300 victims attempted to board Indonesian military transport planes to be evacuated [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera] Desperation Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, spokesman for the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, told reporters in Jakarta late on Tuesday rescuers were racing against time to find anyone alive. More than 65,000 homes have been damaged and at least 60,000 people have been displaced and are in need of emergency help, according to the government. The UN says as many as 200,000 are in desperate need of relief supplies. Earlier, President Joko Widodo called for reinforcements in the search for survivors, saying everyone had to be found. There was mounting concern over Donggala, a region of 300,000 people north of Palu and closer to the epicentre, and two other districts with a combined population of about 1.4 million. Initial reports from Red Cross rescuers who reached the outskirts of Donggala district were chilling. The situation in the affected areas is nightmarish, Jan Gelfand, head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) office in Jakarta, said in a statement. The city of Palu has been devastated and first reports out of Donggala indicate that it has also been hit extremely hard by the double disaster. Family tracing Al Jazeeras Andrew Thomas, reporting from Palu, said there was a pungent smell of decomposing bodies in the city amid daily burying in mass graves. Not all the bodies have been buried, I can say that from the smell we encountered as we got down to sea level, he said. Its a very dark city in every sense of the word. With roads cut off by landslides and major bridges broken down, physical access remains a real challenge, according to Nigel Timmins, Oxfams humanitarian director. The other one is information, he told Al Jazeera. Electricity is down, telecommunication is down. For many people, their first priority is family tracing. Local residents affected by the earthquake and tsunami in a temporary shelter in Palu [Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters] Muzair, a resident of the Petobo neighbourhood in Palu, said five of his relatives are still missing. I hope the government can help find them, he said. The soil was churning and then it suddenly rose up and buried the houses. In my heart I said if this is the time I die, what more could I do? I just prayed to God. Children are reportedly showing up alone at medical centres, searching for their parents. Because of its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia is prone to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions and is well versed in responding to disasters. A massive earthquake off Sumatra island in 2004 caused a tsunami that killed 230,000 people around the region, the majority of them in the Indonesian province of Aceh. That was the last time the country declared a national disaster. Quake victims flee Palu on military aircraft as hopes of finding survivors fade fast five days after disaster. Time was running out on Wednesday for anyone trapped in the debris of a devastating earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia, five days after disaster struck. The death toll on the island of Sulawesi climbed to 1,347, according to the countrys disaster management agency, as rescue teams scrambled to locate survivors. Authorities and aid workers struggled to reach the affected areas made inaccessible by damaged infrastructure. Palu, a small city about 1,500km northeast of the capital, Jakarta, and other parts of Sulawesi island were the hardest hit by Fridays magnitude 7.5 quake that triggered six-metre-high tsunami waves. At Palus stricken airport, about 300 victims attempted on Wednesday to board Indonesian military transport planes to be evacuated to Makassar, capital of South Sulawesi province. The injured and those with children received priority seating on the Hercules C-130 aircraft. The evacuation was orderly and there was no panic. But they obviously looked tired and stressed out, Al Jazeeras Ted Regencia reported from the scene. Outside Palus Mutiara Al Jufri Airport, hundreds of others were camped out, some receiving medical treatment, others awaiting a chance to escape. Desperation Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, spokesman for the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, told reporters in Jakarta late on Tuesday rescuers were racing against time to find anyone alive. More than 65,000 homes have been damaged and at least 60,000 people have been displaced and are in need of emergency help, according to the government. The UN says as many as 200,000 are in desperate need of relief supplies. Earlier, President Joko Widodo called for reinforcements in the search for survivors, saying everyone had to be found. There was mounting concern over Donggala, a region of 300,000 people north of Palu and closer to the epicentre, and two other districts with a combined population of about 1.4 million. Initial reports from Red Cross rescuers who reached the outskirts of Donggala district were chilling. The situation in the affected areas is nightmarish, Jan Gelfand, head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) office in Jakarta, said in a statement. The city of Palu has been devastated and first reports out of Donggala indicate that it has also been hit extremely hard by the double disaster. Family tracing Al Jazeeras Andrew Thomas, reporting from Palu, said there was a pungent smell of decomposing bodies in the city amid daily burying in mass graves. Not all the bodies have been buried, I can say that from the smell we encountered as we got down to sea level, he said. Its a very dark city in every sense of the word. With roads cut off by landslides and major bridges broken down, physical access remains a real challenge, according to Nigel Timmins, Oxfams humanitarian director. The other one is information, he told Al Jazeera. Electricity is down, telecommunication is down. For many people, their first priority is family tracing. Muzair, a resident of the Petobo neighbourhood in Palu, said five of his relatives are still missing. I hope the government can help find them, he said. The soil was churning and then it suddenly rose up and buried the houses. In my heart I said if this is the time I die, what more could I do? I just prayed to God. Children are reportedly showing up alone at medical centres, searching for their parents. Because of its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia is prone to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions and is well versed in responding to disasters. A massive earthquake off Sumatra island in 2004 caused a tsunami that killed 230,000 people around the region, the majority of them in the Indonesian province of Aceh. That was the last time the country declared a national disaster. Russia has completed the delivery of an S-300 surface-to-air missile system to the Syrian military as part of new security measures following the downing of a Russian plane last month. Russian Defence Minister Sergi Shoigu on Tuesday said at a meeting of the countrys security council that its army had finished the deliveries of S-300 systems including a total of four launch platforms. Shoigu said it would take three months to train the Syrian military to operate the new air defence systems, while the integration of Russian and Syrian air defence assets into a single automated system will be completed by October 20. We now control a close zone of up to 50km (30 miles) and the far zone of 200km (124 miles) from where attacks on the Syrian territory were launched, Shoigu said. Russia, a key ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, joined the seven-year war in 2015. {articleGUID} The decision to deliver the modern defence system was reached following the shooting down of a Russian Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft, which was accidentally hit by a Syrian missile, killing 15 troops. Moscow said Israel was culpable as the Il-20 had caught in the crossfire as four Israeli F-16 jets attacked targets in northwestern Syria. The Israeli military said Syrias indiscriminate air defence fire was the cause of the incident. A serious escalation The United States has called the Russian move to arm Syrian military a serious escalation. US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert on Tuesday said she could not confirm that Russia had delivered the system to Syria, but said it would be a concern if it had. I hope that they did not, Nauert told reporters in Washington, DC, when asked about the Russian announcement. That would be sort of a serious escalation. Russia-Israel tightrope Israel has, in the past six years, carried out hundreds of attacks inside Syria, varying from firing rockets to air raids, which have increased in intensity and frequency since 2012, when Iranian paramilitary fighters joined the conflict. Israel has carried out about 200 air raids in the last two years, according to its officials. Since it joined the Syrian conflict, Russia has generally turned a blind eye to Israeli attacks inside the country. Israel and Russia have also maintained a hotline to prevent their air forces from clashing in the skies over Syria. Moscow has tried to maintain good relations with Iran, which is allied with the Syrian government, as well as Israel. A dispute between Israel and Russia could restrict Israels ability to mount air raids inside Syria on what it considers the greatest threat to its security from the Syria conflict: the build-up of Iranian forces or Iranian-backed Hezbollah fighters. By Damali Mukhaye. The bitter working relationship between Kampala Capital City Authoritys technical team and political team seems far from an end following a decision by the former to allegedly snub the meeting. The meeting which had been called by Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago two weeks ago to discuss a wide range of issues saw no one from the technical wing attending. The Acting executive director, Samuel Serunkuuma wrote to Lukwago informing him that the technical staff were unable to attend yesterdays council meeting because they would be engaged in a management meeting that sits every Tuesday,a letter which angered councilors. They accused the technical staff of frustrating their work, arguing that such arrogance and disrespect of the person of the Lord Mayor paints a pale picture at the entire KCCA institution. But Peter Kaujju, KCCAs director of public and corporate affairs dismissed the allegations that the technical staff are frustrating efforts of council. Saving life without a licence: Rescue ship trial delayed in Malta A court in Malta postpones the trial of Claus-Peter Reisch, a German captain of a refugee rescue ship impounded by the government. Boat wreckage has been found, but no bodies have been recovered since the boat capsized with 60 on board on Monday. A small boat carrying migrants has capsized off Guinea-Bissau, a port official said, adding that the vessel may have had more than 60 people on board when it set off. Coast Guard Commander Siga Batista said on Wednesday that the pirogue, a narrow wooden fishing vessel, sank on Monday night off the coastline and there were no patrol ships to save lives on the high seas. An overloaded pirogue, transporting illegal migrants, capsized in our waters, Batista told AFP news agency by telephone. We dont know how many people were on board when the boat sank, nor their identity or even their nationality. But according to information that has reached me there were more than 60 people on board the pirogue, Batista said. Due to the financial situation, we have had difficulty organising a rescue operation, he added. The wreckage has since been found, but no bodies have been recovered. Local radio stations in the West African country have asked fishermen to tell authorities if they spot any bodies or passengers still alive. The coastal surveillance agency has two speedboats, but these are often prevented from leaving the port due to lack of fuel, a navy officer said on condition of anonymity. At the first International Solar Alliance summit, Modi says role of oil wells today will be that of the sun tomorrow. An India-led coalition of nations aims to harness solar energy, which it says will eventually replace the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) oil cartel. The role of the oil wells today will be that of the suns rays tomorrow, Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in capital New Delhi on Tuesday. Modi was speaking at the first assembly of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), which was also attended by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. In the coming years, when the world discusses initiatives for the welfare of humanity in the 21st century, ISAs name will be at the top, Modi said. The OPEC pumps around a third of the worlds oil, and over decades has been able to influence the global energy market by controlling the price of crude. The International Solar Alliance represents exactly what needs to be done and represents the future, Guterres said. We know what we need to do, and by and large, we have the tools to do it. What we still lack, fortunately not here in this room is the political commitment to make the transformative decisions that will lead us on to a safer path, he said. On Wednesday, Guterres also presented Modi the Champions of the Earth Award, the UNs highest environmental honour, which the Indian leader shares with French President Emmanuel Macron. The world needs bold leadership on #climateaction. I thank India for setting an example and was pleased to present Prime Minister @narendramodi with the Champions of the Earth Award pic.twitter.com/QchKIOVdQP Antonio Guterres (@antonioguterres) October 3, 2018 What is ISA? The ISA, launched by Modi and then-French President Francois Hollande in 2015 and based in India, is an alliance of countries mostly between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn that receive plentiful sunshine. It aims to reduce the costs of financing solar power and its required technology and to mobilise more than a trillion dollars to build solar facilities and infrastructure by 2030. {articleGUID} The ISAs first assembly, involving member states, banks, development funds, the corporate sector and civil society groups, is due to run until Friday. Indias population of 1.3 billion is particularly vulnerable to climate change. In August, unprecedented rains pounded the southern state of Kerala, displacing 1.3 million people, with climate scientists warning the worse is yet to come if global warming continues. With only a single degree Celsius of warming so far, the world has seen a climate-enhanced crescendo of deadly heat waves and floods, along with superstorms swollen by rising seas. Popular radio jockey, Sasha Martinengo, fired after he called opposition leader Julius Malema a monkey on a live show. A white South African radio presenter has been dismissed from his job after he called a senior opposition leader a monkey on a live show. People still listen to this monkey, Sasha Martinengo, host with a Johannesburg-based radio station, said on Tuesday during his popular breakfast show. He was referring to the opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party leader, Julius Malema. The Hot 91.9FM station sacked Martinengo shortly after the remarks were made, calling his action unfortunate and completely unacceptable. The station is fully committed to all members of our community equally, irrespective of their political, ideological, religious or social viewpoints, and stands for tolerance, equality and the constitutional rights of all, the station said in a statement posted on Facebook. Later on Tuesday, the disgraced radio presenter apologised, but added that he stood by his comments. {articleGUID} Im sorry if I offended anyone, but I stand by what I said. Anyone, irrespective of their race, colour, creed, religion, gender who disrespects a woman is a monkey, Martinengo said on Twitter. Meanwhile, the EFF welcomed Martinengos dismissal, but said it will take further action against the radio host. We will, through our branches, be opening a criminal case against him (Martinengo) because racists belong in jail. Our courts must deal harshly with those who continue to undermine the humanity and dignity of black people, the EFF said in a statement late on Tuesday. In recent months, South Africa has been hit with a number of cases of racism, 24 years after a white-minority rule marked by apartheid ended in the country. In August, a man was sacked from his family business after a video of him calling a beach heaven on earth for not having any black person, went viral. Adam Catzavelos had also used the K-word, a racist slur used historically by white people to denigrate black South Africans. In a landmark ruling in March, a former estate agent was jailed for three years for using a derogatory word against a black police officer 48 times. In January, a white South African woman was widely condemned for describing New Years revellers on Durbans beach monkeys. South Africans want a bigger crackdown on narcotics Increased policing has failed to curb drug gangs operations and many communities suffer from addiction epidemics. New York Times investigation finds Trump and his siblings helped their parents hide money on tax returns. US President Donald Trump engaged in dubious tax schemes, including cases of fraud in which he and his siblings helped their parents dodge taxes in the 1990s, the New York Times reported on Tuesday, citing more than 200 tax returns it obtained. The White House responded to the report by calling it a misleading attack by the newspaper. During his presidential campaign, Trump promoted himself as a self-made real estate mogul who started out with only a very small loan from his businessman father, Fred Trump. But the New York Times reported much of that fortune came to Trump because he helped his parents evade taxes, including setting up a sham corporation with his siblings to disguise millions of dollars in gifts from their parents. The New York Times investigation, which a Trump lawyer said was extremely inaccurate, showed Trump received the equivalent today of at least $413m from his fathers real estate business, citing a vast trove of confidential tax return and financial records. [Donald Trump] also helped formulate a strategy to undervalue his parents real estate holdings by hundreds of millions of dollars on tax returns, sharply reducing the tax bill when those properties were transferred to him and his siblings, the newspaper reported, adding, these manoeuvres [were] met with little resistance from the Internal Revenue Service. The New York Times said its findings were based on more than 200 tax returns from Fred Trump, his companies and various Trump partnerships and trusts. The records did not include Donald Trumps personal tax returns. Virtually no involvement Charles Harder, Trumps lawyer, told the newspaper: President Trump had virtually no involvement whatsoever with these matters. Harder added: The affairs were handled by other Trump family members who were not experts themselves and, therefore, relied entirely upon the aforementioned licensed professionals to ensure full compliance with the law. The New York State Tax Department is looking into the allegations, CNBC reported, citing a spokesman for the department. Citing tax experts, the New York Times reported it was unlikely Trump would face criminal prosecution because the acts were past the statute of limitations. There is no time limit, however, on civil fines for tax fraud. Robert Trump, the presidents brother, told the newspaper in a statement all appropriate gift and estate tax returns were filed, and the required taxes were paid. He added: Our fathers estate was closed in 2001 by both the Internal Revenue Service and the New York State tax authorities. The newspaper said the story was based on interviews with Fred Trumps former employees and advisers and more than 100,000 pages of documents describing the inner workings of his business empire. The investigation also draws on tens of thousands of pages of confidential records bank statements, financial audits, accounting ledgers, cash disbursement reports, invoices and cancelled checks, it said. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders denounced the report in a statement. The New York Times and other media outlets credibility with the American people is at an all-time low because they are consumed with attacking the president and his family 24/7 instead of reporting the news, Sanders said. Trump criticised by Republicans and Democrats after mocking Ford, who accused Supreme Court nominee of sexual assault. US President Donald Trump drew strong criticism from both Republicans and Democrats after mocking Christine Blasey Ford, who accused Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her decades ago. At a campaign rally in Mississippi rally on Tuesday, the audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Fords testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Last week, she testified that Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Fords allegations. How did you get home? I dont remember,' Trump said at the rally Tuesday in Southaven. How did you get there? I dont remember, Where is the place? I dont remember, How many years ago was it? I dont know. I dont know. I dont know.' Imitating Ford, he added, But I had one beer thats the only thing I remember. It marked the sharpest criticism by Trump of Ford since she came forward publicly with the allegation last month. He had previously called Ford a very credible witness while continuing to back Kavanaugh. Vicious, vile and soulless Fords lawyer Michael Bromwich called Trumps attack vicious, vile and soulless. {articleGUID} Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? Bromwich tweeted. She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice. Arizona Republican Senator Jeff Flake told NBCs Today show on Wednesday that mocking something this sensitive at a political rally is just not right. I wish he hadnt done it, Flake said. Its kind of appalling. Flake is a key GOP vote in the confirmation battle, and while he said last week he would vote to confirm Kavanaugh, he also called for an expanded FBI investigation that resulted in a one-week delay. Flake has not said how he will vote if the nomination comes up this week. Republican Senator Susan Collins, who is also considered a swing vote on the Kavanaugh nomination, called Trumps remarks plain wrong. Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski, who is also wavering on the nomination, said Trumps comments were wholly inappropriate and unacceptable. Trump was also lambasted online, including by many Democrats. Feminist author Jessica Valenti tweeted: I dont have it in me to say something outraged about Trump mocking Dr Blasey Ford. Its all just so horrible and depressing. https://twitter.com/JessicaValenti/status/1047482577391632384?ref_src=twsrc^tfw Democratic Senator Kamala Harris, who is on the Senate Judiciary Committee, tweeted that Ford deserves better. Dr. Ford is a profile in courage. She knew what she was up against when she came forward but spoke out because she felt it was her civic duty. She deserves better. Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) October 3, 2018 White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders defended Trump on Wednesday, saying the president was simply stating facts. She also accused Democrats of literally trying to undercut the voice of the American people when they elected Donald Trump. The president was in Mississippi on Tuesday, looking to use his influence to sway the outcome of a low-profile election that could tip the balance of the Senate. As Republicans fight headwinds ahead of the November 6 midterm elections, Trump sought to rally his supporters behind Republican Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, who was appointed to fill the seat of Thad Cochran, who retired in April. She faces three candidates Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bernard Bartee in next months special election for the remainder of the two-year term. Trump spent much of the rally, however, lamenting the treatment of Kavanaugh by Democrats, whose attacks, he said, had taken their toll on the judges family. {articleGUID} A mans life is in tatters, he said. Of Democrats, he added, These are really evil people. He raised questions about the drinking habits of Vermont Senator Patrick Leahy in an attempt to turn the tables on Democrats who have gone after Kavanaughs beer drinking. Trump told the crowd they should do an online search for Patrick Leahy slash drink. Leahys office didnt immediately return a message seeking comment on Tuesday. Republican officials and the White House expect Hyde-Smiths race to go to a runoff under the states election rules that force a showdown between the top two finishers if no candidate wins at least 50 percent of the vote on November 6. With Republicans defending majorities in the House and Senate next month, officials cast Trumps visit as an attempt to get ahead of a potentially perilous situation. Officials said Trump is seeking to boost Hyde-Smith as close as possible to the 50 percent threshold and lend momentum for a possible runoff. Depending on how Republicans perform on November 6, the eyes of the nation could fall on a November 27 Mississippi runoff in what could become an expensive and high-profile race to determine control of the Senate. Fords lawyer questions FBI probe Hours before Trumps speech, Fords lawyers sent a letter to FBI Director Chris Wray saying they had received no response from anyone involved in the reopened background investigation of Kavanaugh. {articleGUID} Fords lawyers said it is inconceivable that the FBI could conclude its investigation, which could happen as early as Wednesday, without interviewing either her, Kavanaugh or all of the other witnesses whose names she had provided. In the letter, the lawyers ask for a call with Wray or the supervisory special agent in charge of the investigation. Trump ordered the FBI to reopen the investigation into Kavanaugh last week after a dramatic last-minute demand by Senator Flake during the Senate Judiciary Committees vote on the nominee. Before casting the decisive vote in favour of Kavanaugh, Flake asked the panel to request that the Trump administration pursue an FBI probe of the explosive allegations against Kavanaugh. A day before the vote, both Ford and Kavanaugh offered emotional testimony on the allegations. The controversy over Kavanaugh is unfolding against a backdrop of the #MeToo movement fighting sexual harassment and assault. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, one in three women in the US experience some form of sexual violence in their lives. About 63 percent of sexual assaults in the US are not reported to the police. More than 90 percent of sexual assault survivors on US college campuses do not report the incident. UK ex-FM Johnson urges scrapping of Brexit plan His speech at ruling Conservative Partys conference was a blatant challenge to Prime Minister Theresa May. UK Prime Minister Theresa May has called on her Conservative Party to pull together and unite behind her plan to leave the European Union, saying if we hold our nerve she can win a deal that delivers for Britain. On Wednesday, the final day of her partys conference, May rallied members, trying to address their concerns that the Conservatives are becoming increasingly directionless under the weight of Brexit by calling on them to look to a brighter future. Dancing onto the stage in the city of Birmingham to ABBAs Dancing Queen to a standing ovation, May poked fun at herself after her dance moves were mocked on a trip to Africa, and after last years conference when her speech was disrupted by a coughing fit, a stage intruder and a disintegrating set. It was a warm welcome for a leader, whose fragile position was put under further pressure after the EU rejected parts of her so-called Chequers plan and critics stepped up calls for her to rethink her strategy for Brexit, Britains biggest trade and foreign policy shift for more than 40 years. But with just six months before Britain is due to leave the bloc, she has so far weathered the Brexit storm, shrugging off a barnstorming speech by her former foreign minister, Boris Johnson, which did little to hide his leadership ambitions. If we all go off in different directions in pursuit of our own vision of the perfect Brexit, we risk ending up with no Brexit at all, she said in a clear nod to Eurosceptic MPs who have published their alternatives plan for leaving the EU. And theres another reason why we need to come together. We are entering the toughest part of the negotiations What we are proposing is very challenging for the EU. But if we stick together and hold our nerve I know we can get a deal that delivers for Britain. She also tried to expand her domestic agenda, attacking the main opposition Labour Party by saying their policies, including the renationalisation of mail, rail and utilities, would mean increased taxes and drive away business. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, she said, would outsource our conscience to the Kremlin. Her words were aimed at easing the growing frustration of some Conservatives who openly say their party is directionless, unable to set an agenda against the divisive rows over Brexit between competing wings of the party. A compromise candidate, Adel Abdul Mahdi has 30 days to form a cabinet and present it to parliament for approval. Newly elected Iraqi President Barham Salih has named independent Shia candidate Adel Abdul Mahdi as prime minister-designate, ending months of deadlock after an inconclusive national election in May. The presidency, traditionally occupied by a Kurd, is a largely ceremonial position, but the vote for Salih in parliament on Tuesday was a key step towards forming a new government. Under Iraqs constitution, Salih a 58-year-old, British-educated engineer who has held office in both the Iraqi federal and Kurdish regional governments had 15 days to invite the nominee of the largest parliamentary bloc to form a government. He chose to do so less than two hours after his election. Since Saddam Hussein was toppled in a 2003 US-led invasion, power has been shared among Iraqs three largest ethnic-sectarian components. The most powerful post, that of prime minister, has traditionally been held by a Shia Arab, the speaker of parliament by a Sunni Arab and the presidency by a Kurd. A former vice president, oil minister and finance minister, Abdul Mahdi now has 30 days to form a cabinet and present it to parliament for approval. He faces the daunting tasks of rebuilding much of the country after four years of war with the armed group Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS), healing its ethnic and sectarian tensions, and balancing foreign relations with Iraqs two major allies Iran and its rival, the US. Abdul Mahdi, 76, is a trained economist who left Iraq in 1969 for exile in France, where he worked for think-tanks and edited magazines in French and Arabic. He is the son of a respected Shia leader who was a minister in the era of Iraqs monarchy, overthrown in 1958. He will become the first elected prime minister not to hail from the Shia Dawa party. Abdul Mahdi was nominated by two rival blocs, one led by Shia leader Muqtada al-Sadr and outgoing Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, and the other by pro-Iranian political bloc leader Hadi al-Amiri and former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. Shia conflict averted Both blocs claim to hold a parliamentary majority but the dispute has been rendered irrelevant by their choice of the same man to be prime minister. The nomination of Mr Adel Abdul Mahdi came after an agreement between the Binaa bloc and the Islah bloc to nominate him via consensus and not a majority bloc in order to get past the issue of which is the majority bloc, said Ahmed al-Asadi, a spokesman for the Binaa bloc led by al-Amiri and al-Maliki. Ameri and Maliki are Irans two most prominent allies in Iraq. Al-Abadi was seen as the preferred candidate of the US, while al-Sadr portrays himself as a nationalist who rejects both American and Iranian influence. The rival claims to a parliamentary majority and uncertainty over the composition of the new government had raised tensions at a time when public impatience is growing over poor basic services, high unemployment and the slow pace of rebuilding after the war with ISIL. Al-Sadrs bloc welcomed Abdul Mahdis nomination. The scholar earlier on Tuesday tweeted that Iraq is bigger than the biggest bloc, a likely reference to the compromise. Al-Abadi issued a statement congratulating Abdul Mahdi and wishing him success. Abdul Mahdis nomination represents the best choice to pleasing all the Shia players who were about to reach a point of conflict and no return, said Baghdad-based political analyst Ahmed Younis. All the Shia blocs reached the conclusion that their divisions could lead to an intra-Shia conflict which would weaken their position in Iraq, he said. Now, with Abdul Mahdi, there are no winners and losers, everyone is happy. By Ssebuliba Samuel. Lands junior minister Persis Namuganza has challenged Ugandans to focus on the advantages the mobile money tax in line with widening tax base, other than criticizing it Yesterday, passed the excise amendment bill 2018 after reducing mobile money tax from 1% to 0.5%. Namuganza said that since graduated tax was abolished, the volume of tax collected reduced which forced government to resort to borrowing. She said that this tax is going to reduce Ugandas dependence level and Ugandans should be proud to contribute to their countrys economy. She however attacked opposition for trying to block this tax. Growth in the number of airports in Southeast Asia has failed to keep up with a surge in demand by passengers. The warnings, issued for he US states of Alaska and Hawaii, the US Pacific territory of Guam, were later cancelled. Minnesota Railroads In "The North Star State" Minnesota has historically been known as the gateway to the Pacific Northwest for railroads such as the Northern Pacific, Great Northern, and Milwaukee Road; all boasted main lines to the Twin Cities which continued west to Seattle. Due to its wide variety of available freight traffic Minnesota boasted a large and diverse number of now-classic railroads looking to tap these resources. In addition to those previously mentioned these included the: Duluth, Missabe & Iron Range Chicago & North Western Chicago Great Western Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha (C&NW) Chicago, Burlington & Quincy. For all its diversity the state was firmly an agricultural producer. As such, thousands of miles of secondary lines were laid down to serve this industry, tracks later abandoned en masse. More than 50% of its infrastructure has been pulled up since 1920 (5,000 miles). Today, Minnesota is still home to four Class Is, two regionals (Class IIs), and several short line railroads. Please note that for your convenience, throughout this article there will be links provided to other pages here at the website (unless otherwise noted) discussing topics related to Minnesota. Great Northern E7A #509 awaits departure from Duluth, Minnesota with its passenger train (perhaps the "Badger," which ran between Duluth and St. Paul) on August 4, 1964. A Brief History Of Minnesota Railroads Minnesota railroads date back to the St. Paul & Pacific Railroad, which completed its main line between St. Paul and then-St. Anthony (now Minneapolis) in the summer of 1862, a distance of about 10 miles. The StP&P, however, dated as far back as the Minnesota & Pacific Railroad, created by the state legislature on May 22, 1857 to take advantage of federal land grants being awarded earlier that year. The M&P never actually built any track, although it had surveyed and graded its route prior to being reorganized as the St. Paul & Pacific (mostly due to financial difficulty, it simply ran out of money with the only capital it ever owned being ties). The railroad eventually became part of the James J. Hill's (the "Empire Builder") Great Northern system. Classic Railroads To Serve Minnesota Wisconsin Central Railway Soo Line Milwaukee Road Great Northern Duluth, Missabe & Iron Range Duluth, Winnipeg & Pacific Northern Pacific Chicago Great Western Chicago & North Western Minneapolis, Northfield & Southern Minneapolis & St. Louis An A-B-B-A set of Great Northern F3's (the lead unit, #367-A, wears the company's updated "Big Sky Blue" livery) are westbound near Minnetonka, Minnesota during the winter of 1968. Today, Minnesota's network is mostly operated by four Class I systems which include BNSF, Union Pacific, Canadian National and Canadian Pacific. The rest is operated by Class II regionals Northern Plains Railroad, Red River Valley & Western Railroad and several short lines which include the: Cloquet Terminal Railroad Minnesota Commercial Railway Minnesota, Dakota & Western Railway Minnesota Northern Railroad Minnesota Prairie Line Minnesota Southern Railway Northern Lines Railway Otter Tail Valley Railroad Progressive Rail, Inc. St. Croix Valley Railroad Twin Cities & Western Railroad Chicago Great Western F3A #115-A is on the ready track in at Rochester, Minnesota on August 7, 1962. Roger Puta photo. Today, the state's railroads operate around 4,600 miles of track although during Minnesota's heyday with trains it featured over 9,100 miles. Since the 1920s the state has witnessed a decline of almost exactly 50% of its railroad infrastructure, a number that is comparable to what other states have experienced in that time. Abandoned Railroads Of Minnesota Alas, Minnesota has been hit especially hard by abandonments. The state has lost roughly 5,000 routes miles since the 1920's. Of this figure, around 4,000 miles have been removed since just the mid-1960s. Minnesota was unique for railroads; not only did it provide rich land for agriculture but was also home to the gateway cities to the Pacific Northwest; Minneapolis and St. Paul. As a result, early railroads out of Chicago aimed for Minnesota while systems like the St. Paul & Pacific attempted to build east out of the Twin Cities area. In addition, James Hill's future Great Northern Railway, as well as the Northern Pacific Railway, used the cities to launch their push for the Puget Sound. All of the major granger roads served Minnesota and all have seen components of the original networks abandoned across the state. Frankly, the state simply contained too much trackage; midwestern roads like the Minneapolis & St. Louis, Chicago & North Western (along with subsidiary Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha Railway), Chicago Great Western, Soo Line, and Milwaukee Road all fiercely competed for agricultural traffic here. Unfortunately, most of the CGW and M&StL network has been removed, following their acquisition by the C&NW. In addition, the C&NW itself, along with the CStPM&O has also witnessed significant cutbacks. Doing a just a little research will reward explorers with a plethora of abandoned routes across the state. A good place to start is AbandonedRails.com. Most of Minnesota's important through, main lines remain in place although it has lost much of its secondary and branch lines, notably those serving agricultural interest. For a more in-depth look at Minnesota railroads, in terms of route mileage over the decades please take a look at the chart below. * Minnesota's first railroad was the St. Paul & Pacific Railroad, which opened 10 miles between St. Paul and St. Anthony in 1862. The StP&P began as the Minnesota & Pacific Railroad of 1857 which had great difficulty in securing needed capital to launch the project. The StP&P was later acquired by the affluent James J. Hill who went on to build the second corridor to Puget Sound, the Great Northern Railway. Even though Minnesota has never seen many famous passenger trains two distinctly stand out, Great Northern's legendary Empire Builder and Northern Pacific's North Coast Limited. While today the Great Northern may no longer operate the legendary Empire Builder it carries on under the Amtrak banner still holding much of the prestige it once did. Today the train makes stops at Winona, Red Wing, St. Paul, St. Cloud, Staples and Detroit Lakes. Also, while Minnesota currently operates a short 12-mile section of light rail between Minneapolis and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport the state has much bigger plans. In 2009 the highly anticipated Northstar Commuter Rail service began operations around the Twin Cities region, and hopes to become a primary means of transportation for commuters to help in reducing congestion. Soo Line SD40 #784 and a mate are working the interchanges at Duluth, Minnesota during August of 1976. Rob Kitchen photo. Minnesota is also home to a number of museums and historic railroad equipment, like the famous Milwaukee Road 4-8-4 #261, whose home base is in Minneapolis. For 16 years it was operated by the Friends of the 261 participating in annual excursions until 2009 when it need a major overhaul. After initially being turned back over to then-owner the National Railroad Museum in Green Bay it was sold to the Friends in 2010. After more than a year and somewhat tense discussions, the museum finally agreed to sell the locomotive outright to the Friends. In 2013, #261 returned to excursion service. Since that time the big 4-8-4 has once again been awing the public as it hosts excursions across the Midwest. Chicago & North Western C44-9W #8662, an SD40-2, and a SD45m roll north under the St.Anthony Street Bridge at Burlington Northern's Northtown Yard in Minneapolis on August 20, 1994. Doug Kroll photo. Other interesting places and excursion trains in Minnesota include the: Como-Harriet Streetcar Line End-O-Line Railroad Park and Museum Jackson Street Roundhouse Kandiyohi County Historical Society Depot Lake County Historical Society Railroad and Depot Museum Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad Lake Superior Railroad Museum North Shore Scenic Railroad Minnehaha Depot North Shore Scenic Railroad All in all, Minnesota railroads offer an interesting mix of railroading not often found in other parts of the country, such as its unique iron ore operations near the Great Lakes. And, if you tire of watching the ore or main line operations, take a ride on the popular and picturesque North Shore Scenic Railroad! New Mexico Scenic Train Rides: A Complete Guide Aside from Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico is often portrayed as barren desert land and mountains. However, the state does possess forested regions, minerals, precious metals, and even some agriculture/cattle farming. Nearly 3,000 miles of railroad was laid down between 1881 and 1920 to serve these industries, in addition to constructing, "through," or main line routes to far away points such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and New Orleans. Most notable among the latter included Santa Fe's "Transcon" linking Los Angeles-Chicago and Southern Pacific's "Sunset Route" connecting Los Angeles-New Orleans. With so many important corridors, New Mexico's current rail mileage stands at 1,860, down from its all-time high of 2,972 in 1920 according to, "The Routledge Historical Atlas Of The American Railroads," by author John F. Stover. If you're looking for scenery, the Land of Enchantment will not disappoint, particularly aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic. This attraction utilizes a component of the venerable Denver & Rio Grande Western's fabled mining branches in the, which passed through both the South San Juan Mountains and the Brazos Mountains. A Brief History Of New Mexico Railroads New Mexico's railroading heritage begins in the late 1870's when a surging Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe entered the state in 1879 on its way southwestward towards Mexico. The AT&SF was then a regional Midwestern carrier but it was rapidly growing under the leadership of William Barstow Strong, who arrived at the company in 1877. In his quest to dominate the west he fought the Denver & Rio Grande for access into Colorado's lucrative silver mining industry and then eyed a Pacific port at Guaymas, Mexico. The true reasoning(s) behind this move remains unknown although it is believed the ever-independent Strong felt the Santa Fe could reap greater benefits by establishing its own west coast port for trade to the Orient, South Pacific, and other parts of Latin America. In addition, these efforts would eliminate competition against Collis P. Huntington's Southern Pacific, which controlled all of California at the time (in the end the AT&SF eventually abandoned this endeavor and entered the Golden State). Nevertheless, the two carriers opened the second transcontinental railroad when a silver spike was driven at Deming, New Mexico on March 8, 1881 according to an in-depth analysis Trains Magazine published in its January, 2007 issue entitled, "Great Railroading: State-By-State." Scenic Train Rides In Other States, Complete Guides Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana New Hampshire New Jersey Nebraska Nevada New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming There were a number of other railroads to serve New Mexico aside from these two railroads. The Denver & Rio Grande (later Denver & Rio Grande Western) penetrated parts of northern New Mexico when its narrow-gauge San Juan mining district was completed from Antonito to Durango, Colorado on July 27, 1881. Along the way it crossed 10,015-foot Cumbres Pass and linked such small hamlets New Mexican hamlets as Chama, Monero, and Navajo. After a number of delays, the Rio Grande also opened an extension to Santa Fe on January 8, 1887. This was also a narrow-gauge line, nicknamed the "Chili Line" due to the propensity of local farmers to ship chili's by rail. The route was never particularly successful and ceased operations after September 1, 1941. Three other noteworthy systems included: Colorado & Southern (whose main line from Montana to Texas clipped northeastern New Mexico) Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific (reached Tucumcari through subsidiary Choctaw, Oklahoma & Gulf in 1910, which opened the "Golden State Route" with the El Paso & Southwestern [later Southern Pacific]) El Paso & Southwestern The so-called "Southwestern Route" served parts of southern Arizona, much of New Mexico, and even reached Nacozari, Mexico. The company's decline, unfortunately, began soon after it reached its peak. Following World War I the price of copper plummeted forcing mines to close. As a primary source of traffic, this setup deeply hurt the railroad. Interestingly, the EP&SW nevertheless continued to grow when it took over the Arizona & New Mexico Railroad on January 1, 1922. The A&NM connected with the EP&SW at Hachita, New Mexico and reached Clifton to the north. With sagging copper prices and the railroad's revenues cut by one-third officials at Phelps Dodge Corporation, which owned the railroad, elected to sell it to Southern Pacific. The deal was completed on October 31, 1924 which included stock, bonds, and cash of $64 million. The transaction also required the Espee to construct a new line to serve Phoenix and provide Phelps, Dodge with terminal property in Los Angeles. The SP also saw a benefit with The Southwestern Route as it was still a profitable road and also offered the western giant a connection to the Rock Island. In any event, to learn more about New Mexico scenic train rides and railroad museums please read about each covered below. Clovis Depot Model Train Museum This small museum is based in Clovis and housed inside the town's beautifully restored, Santa depot completed in 1907. While you can view model trains there the organization also tells the Santa Fe's role and history within the area. Today, its main line, notably the Belen Cutoff, remains busy under BNSF today. Inside the building you will find several artifacts and other items on display. Also, they currently operate 11 different layouts covering most of the popular model railroad scales (HO, O, N, etc.). Finally, peruse their gift shop or just check out the train action right outside! Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic is another famous narrow-gauge tourist railroad located in southwest Colorado and northwest New Mexico. It utilizes part of the historic Denver & Rio Grande Western's San Juan mining district like the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge. The C&T also operates a stable of preserved Rio Grande 2-8-2's like its neighboring tourist attraction. For this reason, and its location within gorgeous canyons and mountains, the railroad draws tens of thousands annually. This is New Mexico's top train attraction; I would strongly consider stopping by to see this historic and super scenic tourist railroad! New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society This organization is based in Albuquerque and is restoring Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe 4-8-4 #2926 (manufactured by Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1944) back to operational status. To learn more about planning a visit or volunteering to help in their efforts with the impressive locomotive please visit their website. Toy Train Depot Foundation This organization is based in the town of Alamogordo and noteworthy as New Mexico's very first train museum. Their building is a preserved El Paso & Northeastern (later El Paso & Southwestern which became a part of Southern Pacific 1924) depot built in 1899. The building was originally located in Torrance and later moved to Corona before arriving at its current location. Inside are several historic displays, artifacts, and documents while the foundation also offers rides on their "Alameda Park Narrow Gauge Railway," a 16-inch gauge scale attraction. Finally, they were recently donated a caboose located nearby. The museum is open on select days throughout the year. Santa Fe Southern Railway (Defunct) The Santa Fe Southern Railway, currently no longer offering excursions, is a short line based in Santa Fe along the former AT&SF branch line to Lamy. Passenger trains used to board from the restored mission-style depot on 410 South Guadalupe Street in Santa Fe. For a few years this operation was mothballed and placed out of service. It then came under new management, hoping to bring a much more upscale attraction to this operation such as fine dining, first-class accommodations, and other special events. However, this project fell through and operations are again closed in 2014. North Carolina Scenic Train Rides: A Complete Guide North Carolina scenic train rides have a lot to offer even though the state is not traditionally known for such attractions. Two of the country's more well-known operations are located there, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad at Bryson City and Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock. Their success can be largely attributed to two things; the beautiful and majestic Smoky Mountains, a region which enjoys more than 10 million visitors annually, and steam locomotives. Both railroads utilize such and they always draw large crowds. In addition, don't miss the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer (which occasionally operates Bonsal Sand 0-6-0T #7 and displays several other steamers) and the New Hope Valley Railway at Bonsal (about 25 miles southwest of Raleigh). Finally, catch a trolley ride at Charlotte Trolley, which operates historic equipment for visitors and tourists (you can also ride the city's new "Lynx" light rail transit system). A Brief History Of North Carolina Railroads North Carolina's railroad heritage begins in 1834 when the Wilmington & Raleigh Railroad (W&R) was chartered by Wilmington's business elite to connect its namesake cities. The year began with apprehension and disappointment when the state legislature declined a bond for the project in January. However, after promoters dropped this provision and instead moved towards a charter, the state gave the go-ahead. Another issue cropped up when the citizens of Raleigh did not want the railroad accessing their town. To rectify this, officials decided to bypass the capital and reach Weldon where an interchange could be established with the Richmond & Petersburg. Construction of the W&R began in October, 1836 and was completed only a few years later on March 7, 1840. At a distance of 161.5 miles, it was then the world's longest railroad, even eclipsing the South Carolina Canal & Rail Road which had opened a 136-mile corridor between Charleston and Hamburg, South Carolina (directly across the Savannah River from Augusta) in October, 1833. In 1855 the W&R's name was changed to the Wilmington & Weldon (W&W) to more accurately reflect the railroad's termini. Scenic Train Rides In Other States, Complete Guides Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana New Hampshire New Jersey Nebraska Nevada New Mexico New York North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming The W&W would go on to join the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, formed in 1900 through the merger of several smaller systems. There were five primary components of the original ACL. Its earliest predecessor was the Petersburg Railroad, chartered in 1830. It opened for service a few years later between its home city and Garysburg, North Carolina, just across the Roanoke River from Weldon. At Petersburg, a connection was established with the Richmond & Petersburg, completed between its namesake cities in 1838. Together, the two roads provided a direct route from Richmond to the Tarheel State. As the 1840s dawned more connections from the south extended through service into South Carolina and beyond, such as the previously mentioned Wilmington & Weldon. During the industry's heyday, North Carolina boasted a wide range of railroading, from local short lines to coal trains in the western mountains (notably the Clinchfield Railroad). In addition, coastal operations could be found on the original Norfolk Southern at Elizabeth City and the ACL serving Wilmington. While all of the state's railroad attractions are worth the visit, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is a must see. It not only offers great scenery but guests also have the option of several different excursion packages, all in climate-controlled cars. Finally, if you are interested in North Carolina scenic train rides that pertain to specific events, such as "The Polar Express," Halloween, Thomas the Tank Engine excursions, or fall foliage events please visit the main tourist trains section of this website. North Carolina Scenic Train Rides And Museums For 2021 Charlotte Trolley One of the more unique scenic train rides in North Carolina can be found at the Charlotte Trolley which tells the history of Charlotte's former interurban operations. The trolley operates on the weekend, Saturday and Sunday, and current has two cars operational. Cherryville Model Railroad Club/Museum This small organization is based inside Cherryville's restored Seaboard Air Line brick depot (completed in 1921). There is no cost to view their layouts although they do accept donations. The club normally operates on select days of the week. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Without question, the most popular of all North Carolina train rides can be found at the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad in Bryson City. This attraction has been in operation since 1988 using tracks once owned by the venerable Southern Railway, which the company called its Murphy Branch. Train rides are hosted throughout much of the year although they also offer special events, such as "Thomas The Train" and holiday festivities. The railroad is covered in more detail here. National Railroad Museum And Hall Of Fame This small museum is located at Hamlet inside the Seaboard Air Line's beautifully restored depot which opened in 1900. It has been open since 1976 and tells the local railroad history via numerous exhibits, displays, and various other artifacts. The facility is normally open each weekend. New Hope Valley Railway The New Hope Valley Railway, based in New Hill, hosts North Carolina train rides on trackage originally built by the New Hope Valley Railroad, which later part of the Seaboard Air Line system. They currently have a multitude of various diesel locomotive switchers they use to power their trains along with one operable 0-4-0T steam locomotive. North Carolina Transportation Museum The one place in the Tarheel State where both scenic train rides and a fabulous collection of preserved equipment can be experienced is at the North Carolina Transportation Museum. It is located in Spencer, situated on the former Southern Railways largest steam locomotive repair shops. Today the museum sees tens of thousands annually and is housed in three of the former shop buildings (currently); the Bob Julian Roundhouse, the Flue Shop, and the Master Mechanics Shop. As part of the museum they operate excursion trains on the museum grounds and is one of just two locations in the United States to feature the live steam locomotive version of Thomas the tank engine. Scenic Train Rides In NC At A Glance As you can see from the information presented here, there are a number of quality trains rides in NC to choose from. The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad (GMSR) and Tweetsie Railroad are top tourist destinations which attract riders from around the country. The former sees nearly 180,000 annually while the latter is regarded as one of the "Top 20 Events In The Southeast" according to Southeast Tourism Society (it is also recognized as the "Best Place To Take The Kids In The Blue Ridge Mountains" according to Blue Ridge Country Magazine). The history of these operations can be traced well back into the 19th century as the GMSR was built as the Western North Carolina Railroad's Murphy Branch (a later component of the modern Southern Railway) and the Tweetsie the narrow-gauge East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad (who's nickname was the "Tweetsie Railroad"). Overall, the state has a rich heritage with railroads, tracing their roots back to the movement of agriculture (tobacco and cotton), manufacturing, and textiles. To some extent this remains the case today. Finally, while this guide is geared towards NC scenic train rides as tourist attractions, the state's commuter and intercity services should also be mentioned. Few others offer such a vast collection of services as North Carolina. The long term plans involve opening a passenger route from the Atlantic coast (Wilmington) to the mountains (Asheville) while linking the state's major cities in the process. To do this, several rail corridors abandoned years ago have been preserved for future use. If not for this foresight the state's long-term objective would be impossible to accomplish. North Carolina also has plans to open high-speed service from Raleigh to Richmond, very near Amtrak's Northeast Corridor which begins at Washington, D.C. In addition, a connection to Virginia's capital city would open through connections to other Amtrak trains which will provide direct service into the Northeast. The initiative, of course, is a long-term endeavor but the future is promising in one of America's most forward-thinking states regarding passenger rail. If you are interested in learning more about these train rides in NC please click here. Old Rock School Railway Museum This museum is located in Valdese and operated by the Piedmont & Western Railroad Club. They offer tours during the weekend of their extensive model layouts, by appointment only. Piedmont Railroad Museum & Library, Inc. This relatively recent organization was formed in 2017 to preserve the rail history of central and eastern North Carolina. While the state was served by big names in this region such as the Southern, Atlantic Coast Line, and Seaboard Air Line there were also several mid-sized systems or short lines located there; names like the Norfolk Southern, Carolina & Northwestern, Atlantic & East Carolina Railway, Durham & Southern, and Piedmont & Northern. The group has plans to feature a museum and library named the Piedmont Model Railroad Park which will be open to the public. For the time being you can visit their hobby shop called the Piedmont Model Railroad Park Store at the Cary Towne Center. Smoky Mountain Trains This small organization is located in Bryson City in the western part of the state, which is also home to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. The museum features an impressive collection of Lionel model trains and is open during select days of each week. Tweetsie Railroad The Tweetsie Railroad, based in Blowing Rock, North Carolina has been operating since 1957 and utilizes a section of the historic East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad (nicknamed the "Tweetsie," this classic narrow-gauge system once served both its namesake states). If there are two North Carolina scenic train rides you should experience it is the Tweetsie and Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Today, they use 3 miles of track to host trips, most often employing their, 4-6-0 "Ten wheeler", #12, to pull excursions. A further history of the railroad can be found here at the site. Finally, for more reading about the original ET&WNC system please click here. Wilmington Railroad Museum The Wilmington Railroad Museum is located in the port of Wilmington near the coast. It first began in 1979 and in 1983 acquired the former Atlantic Coast Line freight depot, in which the organization is still housed today. They have several artifacts on-hand, a model train layout, as well as a small collection of rolling stock (this includes Atlantic Coast Line 4-6-0 #250 built by Baldwin in 1910). Virginia Blue Ridge Railway The Virginia Blue Ridge Railway (reporting mark, VBR) was a small, historic short line system tucked away near the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Because of this, as well as the road's secluded nature, it received little coverage and often went unnoticed by rail enthusiasts. However, the VBR offered all of the things which made short lines fascinating; friendly service, a leisurely schedule, and small power. It also gained recognition for utilizing steam locomotives into the early 1960s. When first conceived the VBR was envisioned as a logging/timber operation. However, this traffic was short-lived and after nearly going under the railroad returned to prosperity beginning in the 1930s by hauling other natural resources. As the years passed, the VBR's customer base dwindled and service was eventually discontinued during the early 1980s. Virginia Blue Ridge 0-6-0 #9 steams along the main line near Roses Mill, Virginia in the 1950s. William Warren, Jr. photo. The Virginia Blue Ridge Railway was a fascinating operation with an interesting, if somewhat chaotic, history that began during the height of the logging railroad industry. It all started in 1914 when John W. Powell, a successful promoter of such systems in West Virginia, along with his associate R.G. Leftwich zeroed in on a region of north-central Virginia along the Piney River that held potential with its vast acreage of virgin chestnut. They moved quickly and secured 55,000 acres near Three Ridges, somewhat north of Massies Mill, along Priest Mountain. There was an additional motive for going after this business, aside from mere profits. As William Warden, Jr. notes in his fabulous article from October, 1962 issue of Trains Magazine entitled, "Steam Success Story," the chestnut blight had first been discovered in the United States during 1904 and was found in Virginia soon after in 1908. More Reading... A History Of Virginia's Railroads More About Short Line Railroads A Guide To Most U.S. Short Line Carriers Chesapeake Western Railway, "Robert E. Lee's Railroad" Southern Railway, "Look Ahead - Look South" Because of this the two men hoped to extract the logs quickly before they rotted and of the fastest ways to do so was by rail. Their plan was to construct a route from both Massies Mill and Woodson, which would converge and head south to the small town of Tye River where an interchange could be established with the Southern Railway. On May 22, 1914 the Virginia Blue Ridge Railway was officially incorporated its system was envisioned to run 12 miles from Tye River to Woodson with a 6 1/2-mile branch from a location known simply as "Junction" to Massies Mill. During early 1915 work on the corridor commenced although at first worked bogged down due to poor engineering and shoddy construction practices. On March 1st it acquired its first locomotive, 2-8-0 #1 manufactured by H.K. Porter and later that summered completed the initial seven miles to Piney River. During the course of the following the year the rest of the project was completed; by October of 1915 the line was finished to Woodson and the following October (1916) witnessed the branch to Massies Mill opened. Almost immediately the Blue Ridge, as it was commonly known, set about moving chestnut timber although it wasn't long before a major event severely thwarted operations. After the United States entered World War I the federal government nationalized the industry through the United States Railroad Administration. The USRA deemed the little Blue Ridge superfluous to the important task of moving men and materiel for the war effort. As a result the railroad was forced to suspend service and by the time it returned to private operation there was almost no timber left, destroyed by the blight. Virginia Blue Ridge 0-6-0 #8 steams with a short freight near Roses Mill, Virginia in the 1950s. William Warden, Jr. photo. The original plan of moving timber and then subsequently abandoning the railroad was no longer possible. In an effort to recoup their investment ownership continued operations, moving whatever freight was available along with the few folks who occasionally traveled the line (the VBR normally used an aging wooden combine car for passenger service, which was discontinued in 1936). Since the area had long been known for its apple harvest the Blue Ridge regularly handled this crop. Following the timber setback it also found other agriculture business and moved a bit of a pulpwood as well. However, overall it struggled to remain afloat and flooding in 1923 as well as 1929 further strained the railroad's ability to remain operational. As it slipped further into debt the possibility of liquidating the company became very real possibility. As management scrambled to save the company one particular desperate attempt to do so involved the abandonment of the Junction-Woodson trackage, leaving the "branch" to Massies Mill as the new main line. The turning point occurred in 1931 when the first actual business located near the Blue Ridge. That year the Southern Minerals Products Corporation constructed a plant near Piney River for the extraction of ilmenite ore, which is used to process titanium dioxide. At first this operation proved cumbersome and rather ineffective, yielding meager traffic for the railroad. Things changed in 1936 when Southern was purchased by Interchemical Corporation, which brought in a much more efficient extraction process (it was later acquired by American Cyanamid in 1944). This move not only expanded the plant but also, finally, provided the Blue Ridge with a reliable and stable source of business. A year earlier, in 1935, a nearly 12-mile seam of aplite was discovered along the Piney River, the largest such deposit in the country. This ore was used in the manufacturing process of glass and roofing products. By 1939 the Riverton Lime & Stone Company's Dominion Minerals Division had established its first plant along the Blue Ridge for the extraction of this ore. Two others would follow. With its prospects on the rise the railroad purchased its first locomotive in more than 20 years, a former Southern 2-8-0, which supplemented #1. As business grew three more steamers arrived during the 1940s along with four others in the 1950s. This effort to update and modernize the Virginia Blue Ridge Railway was largely thanks to Kenneth Cobb, whose dad Howard had been involved in the company since its inception. While the younger Cobb, who eventually became VBR president, was not a railroader he brought in E.A. Gooden from the Norfolk & Western to upgrade the road's infrastructure after World War II, which included such improvements as heavier locomotives, rail, and new ties. While new steam arrived in the '50s the motive power was also near retirement. During 1957, and later in 1959, the railroad hosted a handful of popular excursions behind its remaining steam locomotives. All-Time Steam Locomotive Roster Builder Wheel Arrangement Road Number Date Built Notes H.K. Porter 2-8-0 1 1915 Acquired new on March 1, 1915; sold for scrap. Richmond Locomotive & Machine Works (Alco) 2-8-0 2 1895 Acquired from Southern on September 22, 1938; sold for scrap. Baldwin 4-6-0 3 1909 Acquired from Georgia & Florida Railway on November 10, 1941; sold for scrap. Baldwin 0-6-0 4 1907 Acquired from War Assets Administration on February 17, 1947. In operation on Wilmington & Western as #58. Alco 0-6-0 5 1942 Acquired from War Assets Administration on February 17, 1947. Preserved and under restoration at the Whippany Railway Museum as U.S. Army #4039. Baldwin 2-8-0 6 1907 Acquired from Southern on November 17, 1952. Preserved at the Whippany Railway Museum as Southern #385. Lima 0-6-0 7 1944 Acquired from Norfolk & Portsmouth Belt Railway on April 20, 1956. After retirement in 1963 the unit was later scrapped. Alco 0-6-0 8 1942 Acquired from Army Transportation Corps on August 15, 1958. Privately owned in Maryland as #2. Alco 0-6-0 9 1942 Acquired from Army Transportation Corps on August 15, 1958. Preserved and under restoration by short line SMS Rail Lines of New Jersey. All-Time Diesel Locomotive Roster Builder Model Type Road Number Date Built Notes EMD SW1 10 1940 Ex-DL&W #430, Acquired on June 18, 1963. EMD SW1 11 1940 Ex-DL&W #427, Acquired on June 18, 1963. EMD SW1 12 1940 Ex-DL&W #432, Acquired on June 7, 1965. Virginia Blue Ridge 0-6-0 #9 "triples the hill" with its third string of freight cars from what must have been a very long train in the 1950s. William Warden, Jr. photo. Then, in April of 1963 management made the decision to replace the iconic machines with more efficient diesels. On June 18th two SW1's arrived, followed by a third on June 7, 1965. As the old saying goes all good things eventually must come to an end and that began for the Blue Ridge during 1970 when American Cyanamid declared it was moving operations to Georgia effective June 15, 1971. Around the same time Riverton Lime & Stone Company also shutdown. The railroad's sole remaining customer was International Minerals & Chemical Company, which pulled the plug during May of 1980. With no sources of online business left the Virginia Blue Ridge Railway was embargoed on July 1st that same year with salvage operations taking place in 1985. Today, much of the right-of-way is home to the Virginia Blue Ridge Railway Trail. It could be an early night on November 6 in the battle for control of the U.S. Senate if Florida governor Rick Scott takes away the Senate seat of political tater tot Democrat incumbent Ben Nelson, even earlier if a political surprise brewing in New Jersey, the possible defeat of the arguably corrupt and tainted Bob Menendez comes to pass as polls are indicating is an increasing possibility: New Jersey Senate Republican candidate Bob Hugin and Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) are in a statistical dead heat, according to a Stockton University poll released on Monday. The Stockon survey found that Menendez leads against Hugin by two points -- 45 to 43 percent -- only five weeks before the November midterm election. Libertarian candidate Murray Sabrin has three percent support. The poll has a 4.25 percent margin of error, making this is a dead tie between Hugin and Menendez. Menendez, who was reprimanded by a Senate ethics panel after corruption charges were dismissed following a mistrial, has a net 24 percent unfavorability rating. Hugin, in contrast, has a 13 percent net favorability rating, though 43 percent of New Jerseyans said they were not familiar with him. Closing that name-recognition gap could be significant and it might be wise for President Trump, as part of his save-the-Senate barnstorming tour, to make a trip to New Jersey if Hugin wishes it. Menendez has been a harsh critic of Judge Brett Kavanaughs nomination to the Supreme Court, saying he believes Christine Blasey Fords allegation of an assault, although she does not know when it happened, where it happened, who was present, how she got there, etc. Yet previous sexual allegations against Menendez were far more specific, corroborated and, wait for it, credible. Add to that corruption charges and you have a very black pot defaming the kettle. Breitbart News has documented Sen. Menendezs legal and ethical problems: A hero Bob Menendez is not, and despite the Obama DoJ dropping charges against its Senate ally, what the FBI found is certainly more damning than the unproven charges against Kavanaugh: The Obama DOJ released a report in 2015, which detailed how they found corroborating evidence that Sen. Menendez and Democrat mega-donor Dr. Salomon Melgen had sex with underage prostitutes in the Dominican Republic. Presented with specific, corroborated allegations that defendants Menendez and Melgen had sex with underage prostitutes in the Dominican Republic, the Government responsibly and dutifully investigated those serious allegations, the DOJ wrote. Ironically and interestingly, Sen. Lindsey Graham, who condemned Judge Roy Moore in Alabama over similar decades-old allegations against him and mounted a full-throated epic defense of the witch-hunt against Kavanaugh, was a character witness for Menendez at his trial despite corroborated evidence: Menendez is on trial for corruption -- the first sitting senator in a decade to be prosecuted on corruption charges. At the heart of the case is whether he accepted money and trips from his close friend, West Palm Beach ophthalmologist Salomon Melgen, M.D., in exchange for using his position as a U.S. senator to help Melgen. The allegations were first published in The Daily Caller, but the Department of Justice, in a court filing, later referred to corroborating evidence having been turned up to support the claims of underage prostitutes. The filing alleged that the prostitutes were hired to attend sex parties with Menendez and Melgen at Melgens villa, at a luxurious resort in the Dominican Republic called Casa de Campo. In an email exchange posted on Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, a Spanish-speaking female said shed attended sex parties with Menendez and Melgen in the Dominican Republic and that Menendez likes the youngest and newest girls. A whistleblower also came forward to describe the parties. The alleged penchant of Menendez for underage prostitutes was described by one of the hookers in the Daily Mail and described activities more heinous than cryptic notes in a high-school yearbook: The alleged prostitute says that she was working with a Dominican escort service called The Doll Palace and that a code word, 'chocolate' was used to summon her and other girls to Melgen's alleged sex parties. To prove herself she gave detailed descriptions of Melgen's pimp and the houses where she slept with house guests. The account is the most detailed since allegations emerged in November that Senator Menendez had attended sex parties in the Dominican Republic That young prostitute said she had sex with Menendez 'three times at least' in 2009. 'The first one in February, and then in May and June. I recall his visit in June so well because that month was my 17th birthday.' Menendez is a political tap-dancer who was against the Iran nuclear deal for all the right and obvious reasons until he found himself running in an election year in an arguably purple state where supporting Trumps pulling out of the Iran deal might be a political liability. Menendez put career first, country second: The most surprising opponent is New Jersey Sen. Bob Menendez, who presented the most clear and compelling case against the accord back in 2015 and proposed a viable alternative (in answer to those who claimed no better deal was possible). But then Menendez, fresh off his corruption trial, is up for re-election. And in deep-blue New Jersey, anything that looks like support for Trump is a political liability. Too bad. He, Schumer and the rest of the were against it but were also for it crowd should re-read Menendezs remarks from three years ago. They remain convincing -- and explain why Trump was right to pull the plug on such a bad deal. Bob Menendez is in deep political trouble, and if Republicans are serious about saving the Senate, they should pay more serious attention to this race. Donald Trump won the presidency because he fought in places the pundits said he could not win, demolishing Hillarys blue wall in states like Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. Here could be a golden opportunity to make New Jersey red again. Daniel John Sobieski is a freelance writer whose pieces have appeared in Investors Business Daily, Human Events, Reason Magazine, and the Chicago Sun-Times among other publications. I believe that Judge Kavanaugh is the victim of a great crime. Judge Kavanaughs wife is the victim of a great crime. Judge Kavanaughs children are victims of a great crime. The crime was committed by powerful people by their making the unprovable public accusation that the judge, long ago, may have committed a criminal assault. What is a crime? What is a great crime? A crime is anything done to you that reduces you to an inanimate object. Suppose someone steals something of no great value to you. That is a crime, but a minor one. Suppose someone steals something that is very dear. A much greater crime has been committed. If someone steals your life savings and leaves you destitute that is a great crime. Suppose you have been enslaved. What is the magnitude of that crime? Then there is torture psychological or physical. You are left forever scared. And there is murder. You no longer exist. You are an inanimate object. In a deep sense all these crimes are the same just variations in magnitude. All these crimes have this in common: your humanity, part of your life, is stolen in each of them. The criminal views you as a mere inanimate thing! The criminal does not regard you as a human being but simply as a resource to be plundered. In Judge Kavanaughs case the plunder is political advantage. By now we all know the accusation that Judge Kavanaugh attempted a rape when he was a teenager (attempted, but did not succeed). Whatever the truth, it is the way the accusation was made public that constitutes a great crime. Originally, this accusation was made in private by a woman that many people regard as disturbed. That is a minor, and forgivable, action because it may be the result of a false memory. And, that woman, too, is a victim of a great crime. She is a victim because she was exploited by radical left attorneys in coordination with criminal politicians. Although she initiated the action, her name, and her fragility, have been broadcast, for political reasons, to the entire world. These crimes were made by unscrupulous politicians who used this private accusation for very public political advantage. These monsters took an unconfirmed, and quite possibly wrong, accusation and blew it up into gigantic proportions. In so doing the judge and his family became victims of those politicians and their minions in the media. It is the politicians and their minions who are the criminals not the judge. They are great criminals indeed! And, most likely these criminals will get away with the crime. There is no need to name these criminals as individuals for there are really no distinctions to be made among the members of any real criminal gang. Through their collaboration they are all guilty. We now know that this criminal gang has a name: professional Democrats. Now try to imagine what Judge Kavanaugh is going through. Since his nomination he has been wrung out. Many have openly insulted him and impugned his character. But, finally, when it looks like the ordeal is over, the ordeal becomes far worse. Out of the blue, the ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee accuses him of having committed sexual assault when he was young. There are no details because the senator was keeping the charges secret just the accusation. There can be no corroboration because he knows he is innocent. He is disoriented, bewildered. How can he defend himself about a crime, an unknown crime at that, he never committed. Official seal of the United States Senate But, worse is to come. In a blaze of publicity the specifics of the unsavory accusation were made public. The judge is now subject to far worse ridicule and vilification. He is angry now. Angry as he, in his innocence, properly should be. His now visible anger is mocked as being unmanly. Nothing he can say or do will moderate the vile abuse he is taking. All who know the truth come to his defense. But this only subjects his defenders to the same abuse that the judge is taking. But there is more. There is an even greater reason for his anger. By all evidence, Judge Kavanaugh is deeply devoted to the Nation that he has served, with all his skill, throughout his entire adult life. He knows that the attacks on him are surrogates for seditious attacks on the Nation and, worse, on the Constitution. If the political attackers win this, the nation will be headed for disaster. The judge cannot, by himself, defeat these now exposed subversives. He can only be the focus for forces far more powerful; forces that are arising to defend the integrity and sanctity of America and its Constitution. Judge Kavanaugh has become the eye of a typhoon. It is now up to us, the people of America to defeat this evil. It was said, by one of the senators, that Judge Kavanaugh must be presumed to be guilty and that he must prove his innocence. This is, the senator says, not a court trial. It is a trial of public opinion. It is therefore appropriate to presume guilt. Of course, it has been known for centuries that one cannot prove a negative. The presumption of innocence is the logical consequence on which true justice rests. Consider the consequences if that senators reversal takes hold. Justice ceases. The senator is advocating the kind of law which governed all of historys worst tyrannies. The senator says this is a trial of public opinion. Very well, let it be a trial of public opinion. We are the jury in that trial. We are the prosecutor. We are the judge. It is up to us to determine innocence or guilt. It is up to us to bring to trial the criminals that have attacked Judge Kavanaugh and, through him, the rule of law and the Constitution. It is up to us to defend the law, our nation, and justice. Let the trial begin. Several facts in recent American political history prove that Illinois is the crucible of the DNCs efforts to deprive voters of constitutionally guaranteed voting rights. The Constitution lists 18 functions of federal government which Congress must provide for. These include the Navy, Army, Treasury, port authority and so on. But the voters, acting through Congress and the president, determine all other federal policies. State governments are administered independently, but Article 4 of the Constitution clearly guarantees that each state must have a constitutiona l form of government modeled after the U.S. Constitution. Since the DNCs two biggest political leaders of the past two decades, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, entered politics in Illinois and learned the Illinois template of government, it's necessary to investigate whether Illinois modified the constitutional form of government, if Illinois enacted legislation which violates the rights of voters, and how and when this was done. There is plenty of evidence for this: Illinois state records prove how Illinois enacted state legislation designed to deprive voters their constitutionally guaranteed voting rights. Briefly summarized, Illinois changes to the constitutional form of government began in 1983 when Mike Madigan became Speaker of the Illinois House. Madigan quickly moved to change the role of the voter in Illinois state government, completely breaking the connection between the voters will and consent and Illinois state public policy. Madigan's ultimate act designed to separate the will of voters from policy legislation occurred when he had his Democratic party pass House resolution 46 in 2017. This resolution is a stunning break with the role of voters in the formation of state policy and was not discussed by the media in Illinois. In this astounding annihilation of the republican form of government, Madigan expanded his exclusive control of all Illinois state legislation and made himself the sole source of all Illinois public policy, a role he enjoys to this day. The total control of all Illinois House legislative writing committees was seized in 2017 by Madigan through Illinois House Rules 4(c)(13,14). The new rules expanded and strengthened the monopolistic powers of the House Speaker. The Resolution states: powers conferred upon him or her include: (13) To determine the number of majority caucus members and minority caucus members to be appointed to all committees, except as otherwise provided by these Rules. and (14) To appoint all Chairpersons, Co-Chairpersons, and Vice-Chairpersons of committees (from either the majority or minority caucus), and to appoint all majority caucus members of committees. These are exact quotes . These two startling House rules gave total control of the membership of all committees to Michael Madigan. The so-called Madigan Rules give Madigan powers never seen before in the state of Illinois House of Representatives and not seen in any other state. This House Rules' brazen language has characteristics one would expect of an ancient manuscript depicting how a tyrant took over the rule of a nation. A study of all state legislatures by the Illinois Policy Institute found that the Illinois legislature is the only legislature in all fifty states to give complete control to the House speaker. It is not surprising that Barack Obama, copying Madigan, suspended the U.S. legislature for six years with continuing resolutions and replaced the will and consent of the voters will 62 czars, an action never taken before. President Obama further stole the will and consent of voters with his historically high deficit spending. Madigan has enacted what he considers to be fail-safe rules expanding his totalitarian control of Illinois state government. These rules require that all House legislation, no matter what committee of origin, be approved by the speaker by going through what Madigan established as his personal approval committee , the House Rules Committee. The Rules Committee has been characterized as the graveyard of Illinois House bills, but in reality its function is to provide Madigan with the unconstitutional ability to usurp of the will and consent of all Illinois voters. Madigans practices are not simply personal influence and corruption -- they are written into the States House Rules. Additionally, these rules allow Madigan to replace any member of any standing committee at any time, something he did over 600 times in 2017. Included in this nullification of the will of the voters, the Illinois House Rules Committee was changed by Madigan to control all Illinois House bills, and to usurp the control of the Illinois House from all Illinois voters. Forty-one states do not require bills to go through a rules committee or similar committee. So in reality Madigan, not the voters of Illinois, today controls what bills are passed by the Illinois House and he then has complete control over what bills proceed to the Illinois Senate to become law. If Madigan does not personally approve of a bill, the Illinois governor never has the chance to sign it. This is not democracy. This is not the type of government the Constitution is designed to establish for the states. Yet today in Illinois and to a troubling extent in other states like California, this is the fact. But while other states have similarly disruptive rules of democracy, as always, Illinois is the worst. Its important to recognize that since 1983, Madigan drastically altered virtually all Illinois House Rules and the 2017 Bill eliminated the existence of the voices of voters in political parties, both his own Party and others. No person in Illinois has the legislative powers the House Speaker possesses through these Illinois House Rules, which are written and published by the State of Illinois. What this means is that this paper doesn't describe the personal corruption of Madigan, but how these powers are given to the Illinois House speaker regardless of who that person is or to what party they may belong. This is not allowed by the Constitution and I will soon challenge the Supreme Court to make a ruling on these issues: that all of the power to write and pass legislation belongs to the people as expressed through their elected representatives, not just one person. This is something one would expect to see in a study of the rise of tyranny in the distant past or another part of the world, but this has been going on since 1983 in Illinois, the state that gave rise to the two most prominent national Democrat leaders, Obama and Hillary Clinton. In the 1952 movie Monkey Business, Carey Grant plays Dr. Barnaby Fulton, a researcher working on an anti-aging treatment that he tries out on himself. As it turns out, the secret to youth lies not in his pill, but in chemicals accidentally dumped into his water cooler. Barnaby is transformed back to his teens while his wife, played by Ginger Rogers, becomes a small child. Since the film also stars Marilyn Monroe as his boss's secretary, one can imagine the hijinks that ensue. Nowhere does Monkey Business refer to race. Nor is the phrase "monkeying things up," an expression Ron DeSantis used following his primary victory in the Florida gubernatorial race, defined by Webster's as having anything to do with race. DeSantis was pointing out that for many years under Republican control, Floridians have enjoyed good governance, and they shouldn't take a chance on "monkeying things up" with a Democrat as governor. Immediately, DeSantis was accused of racism. The Miami Herald labeled DeSantis's comment "a racial slur." Andrew Gillum, surprise winner of the Democrat primary, stated that DeSantis was using the "playbook of Donald Trump," which Florida DNC chair Terrie Rizzo had previously referred to as racial "whistle calls." Gillum stated that "they [presumably GOP candidates in the mode of Trump] no longer do whistle calls, they are now using full bullhorns." By an interesting "coincidence," an Associated Press story of 9/1/18 ("Racist calls mock FL's gov candidate") reported that a white supremacist group had been harassing Gillum. That AP report seems to have been timed to buttress Gillum's claims of racism in Florida. I'm sure there are a few idiots who make offensive phone calls in any state. But is that the most important thing one has to report about the Florida gubernatorial race? What about the ongoing FBI investigation into corruption in Gillum's mayoral administration? What about Gillum's ties to socialists like Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez? What about no platform other than tax and spend and race? It's clear that the next six weeks will be about race, race, race in the Florida gubernatorial election, and about racism, sexism, and classism in other races across the country. Predictably, classism showed up in the Florida Senate race as the Palm Beach Post ran a story critical of Rick Scott's stock portfolio holding of Gilead Sciences, whose cure for hepatitis C costs Medicaid $1,000 a pill. Never mind that Gov. Scott's investments are in a blind trust and have been since just after his election. And never mind that Gov. Scott's trust undoubtedly holds hundreds of other stock investments or index funds that hold thousands of stocks. The implication is that Gov. Scott, who administers Medicaid funds, did something wrong by approving the expensive drug. What should he have done allow hundreds of Floridians to die of hepatitis C? I'm sure this isn't the last of it. For the left, the real crime is being rich, or white, or male. Never mind that Bill Nelson is also rich the difference being that Scott made almost all of his money from hard work in the private sector, while Nelson has spent all but one year of his working life on the government dole. On a modest government salary, he has somehow managed to amass a net worth (as of 2016) of $3.67 million. Instead of suggesting that Gov. Scott made money off a stock he didn't even know he owned, maybe the media should be looking into Bill Nelson's finances. It's obvious that Democrats have nothing to run on except the liberal trifecta of race, class, and sex. There is no evidence of racism or sexism on the part of GOP candidates in this year's midterm elections no more so than there is evidence of sexual assault on the part of Judge Kavanaugh. There is, however, obvious and widespread evidence of racially charged and sexually charged language on the part of liberal Democrats and liberal media. That is all Democrats have. That is certainly the case in Florida. According to Gillum's website, he is running against his GOP opponent, and against Trump, so as to "rebuild the economy." (Isn't the economy already at an all-time high under President Trump?) Gillum also speaks of "revitalizing public education," to be paid for with "legalization and taxation of marijuana" (yet Florida public school students already rank first in the nation in a number of key areas). Also, according to his website, Gillum wants to abolish ICE, and he supports sanctuary cities. He supports Bernie Sanders's Medicare for All plan, actually stating that it will "lower costs." (Hasn't Gillum heard about Obamacare?) He's committed to "addressing our climate change crisis" with the goal of "a completely clean energy economy." (That's unlikely before the end of the century, if then, but Gillum speaks of achieving it "soon." Is this honest?) The ones "monkeying" with the Florida gubernatorial election are Gillum and his supporters. They're the ones who introduced race into the election, hours after DeSantis's primary victory, and they're the ones making ridiculous Sanders-style promises of free everything. The Gillum campaign has nothing substantive to run on. It seems they're counting on race to tip the scales. Isn't it time for America to move beyond the politics of race, class, and sex to establish the kind of civil society that Americans want? The only ones fueling the fires of racism are Democrat politicians who want to stir up voters ahead of the midterm election. These tactics remind one of the worst days of racism in the South, when white candidates would exploit racial fears to drive white voters to the polls. I can see no difference between those heinous political tactics and those of Democrats today, except that now it is minority voters, along with women and the poor, who are treated like senseless pawns. It's monkey business everywhere because Democrats in Florida; Washington, D.C.; and elsewhere have nothing to offer except accusations of racism, sexism, and classism. The truth is that distinctions based on race, class, and sex are less prevalent in America more than anywhere else in the world. The only ones talking about race, class, and sex are Democrats, and they only do it every two years when elections come up. Talk about "interference" with elections. It's not Russians; it's the Democrats who are monkeying with elections by portraying every opponent as a racist, sexist, or rich-guy that we're supposed to hate because he's rich. I'm sick of race, class, and sex, and I'm tired of seeing Democrat injecting these into every corner of public life. Unfortunately, it's just getting worse. Get out and vote them out. Maybe then they'll be forced to run on real issues. Jeffrey Folks is the author of many books and articles on American culture including Heartland of the Imagination (2011). Image: NIMESH DUSRA via Wikimedia Commons. Uranium One the scandal where then-secretary of state Hillary Clinton allowed 20% of America's uranium supply to fall into the hands of the Russians pretty much has fallen off the front pages, superseded by the Russia-Russia-Russia canards of the left and now the Kavanaugh hearings. But The Hill's indefatigable John Solomon has kept on it, and he finds new reasons for concern, now that the FBI seems to be stonewalling release of multiple memos concerning its handling of the case. He writes: Eight years after its informant uncovered criminal wrongdoing inside Russia's nuclear industry, the FBI has identified 37 pages of documents that might reveal what agents told the Obama administration, then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and others about the controversial Uranium One deal. There's just one problem: The FBI claims it must keep the memos secret from the public. Their [sic] excuses for the veil of nondisclosure range from protecting national security and law enforcement techniques to guarding the privacy of individual Americans and the ability of agencies to communicate with each other. Sound familiar? Here the FBI's field agents had a magnificent informant, William Campbell, who managed to insinuate himself right into the heart of Russia's state nuclear company as a consultant and who uncovered amazing corruption operations surrounding a uranium trucking company (a case where cash was passed around in suitcases), really getting the goods on Russian payoffs and bribery here in the U.S. As if that were not enough, he also got wind of a scheme from Russian nuclear officials to funnel millions of dollars to the Clinton Foundation through the U.S.-based lobbying firm APCO. All of this was, he confirmed, was part of a "Russian nuclear dominance strategy." ZeroHedge has some invaluable background on that here. Although Solomon and others don't report it, the Russian masterplan made sense to execute on economic grounds, given the parlous state of the U.S. uranium industry, which was so layoff-ridden by the Obama administration's other policies (which included flooding the market with used uranium from unrelated disarmament projects as well as the shutdowns of U.S. nuclear plants, plus the nuclear disaster at Fukushima, and uranium producer Kazakhstan's constant currency devaluations, which made their uranium exports cheap) that the U.S. was down to about five working companies and fewer than 1,000 workers. That was easy pickings for the Russians, and all they had to do was get a Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. (CFIUS) board's permission to buy up U.S. uranium companies. Hillary Clinton, of course, sat on that board and had unusual influence on it. As Solomon notes: The evidence was compiled as Secretary Clinton courted Russia for better relations, as her husband former President Clinton collected a $500,000 speech payday in Moscow, and as the Obama administration approved the sale of a U.S. mining company, Uranium One, to Rosatom. The sale made famous years later by author Peter Schweizer and an epic New York Times expose in 2015 turned over a large swath of America's untapped uranium deposits to Russia. There is still the mystery of whether all of this information that the FBI meticulously gathered, and paid its informant $51,000 for, which is a good-sized payoff for any law enforcement agency, ever got to the White House. If it did, and President Obama as well as Hillary Clinton ignored it, then it looks like corruption of the highest order. If it didn't by what sort of incompetence could this be on the FBI side? It certainly wasn't from the FBI field agents, who did an amazing job and paid their informant in an amount that correctly corresponded to his contribution. It would have had to have been someone at the top, probably protecting the president, even though telling him would have still protected him, since the news would not have presumably gotten out. The FBI director at the time was Robert Mueller. Did he have a Strzok-type agent so intent on allowing President Obama and Hillary Clinton to collect that Clinton Foundation money? Or did he protect Obama himself from even a hint of knowledge? If he did, what did he think his job was? I am of the thinking that he did tell them, and there wasn't another Strzok operating for solely partisan protection purposes. Knowing the players, I suspect that Obama ignored the report, and so did Hillary Clinton, both convinced they had the next election in the bag. Either way, notes Solomon, it's not assuring. It was either a Strzok; Strzok himself; or Mueller, who needs to answer questions on this. Then a special counsel may be needed to go after the real culprits if not the protection racket. Image credit: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0. The Democrats have attacked Kavanaugh from day one, and now, of course, they go after his credibility, as if they had any themselves. Hence this AP article, titled "Democrats' new tack: Go hard after Kavanaugh's credibility." The term "credibility" is thrown around a lot these days as we are told that Christine Ford is credible even though there is no actual evidence and there are no witnesses who say the assault occurred. For at least a few decades, most of the media along with other Democrats have shown they have little or no concern about credibility by whom they have supported and continue to support, no matter what they have said or done. Here is a small sample: Bill and Hillary went on 60 Minutes in 1992 and falsely called Gennifer Flowers a liar. Over the last several decades, Hillary lied and was involved in violations of the law with cattle futures, Whitewater, missing FBI files, missing Rose Law firm records, the firings at the White House travel office, using a non-secure server, deleting massive numbers of emails, obstruction of justice, huge amounts of money coming to the Clinton Foundation from foreign and domestic sources for access, selling U.S. uranium to Russia, Benghazi, and paying millions to create a fictitious dossier to destroy Trump. Bill was credibly accused of abusing Paula Jones, Juanita Broaddrick, and Kathleen Willey, including attempted rape. Bill committed perjury (a felony) about Monica and caused Monica to commit perjury, and his supporters didn't care about his credibility or his obvious abuse of a young female subordinate. Hillary, George Stephanopoulos, and others set up a war room to destroy the lives of women who dared tell the truth about Bill's proclivities. Anyone who threatened their quest for power or money was a target. It is especially appalling to watch Stephanopoulos go after anyone with this history. The media, Democrats, and Hollywood knew that Hillary and Bill physically and mentally abused a number of women for decades, yet not once did they care about those women, and they supported putting them back in the White House in 2016. Therefore, all of these groups were complicit in enabling the Clintons. How many young women have been abused over the last several decades by powerful men like Bill Clinton, Weinstein, Rose, Lauer, Cosby, and others because women wouldn't come forward because they were afraid their lives would be destroyed? What did Bill Clinton do with young girls on all his trips with pedophile Epstein on the Lolita Express to Orgy Island? The media certainly didn't care. When Dick Durbin first ran, he said to the voters in Illinois that he would overturn Roe v. Wade. Over the years, he has trashed our troops in GITMO, been involved in the house banking scandal, and lied about being tough on illegal immigration. The media don't give a damn about Durbin's lack of credibility as the self-righteous Durbin trashed Kavanaugh. As a congressman, Durbin voted consistently to uphold existing restrictions on abortion or impose new limitations, including supporting a Constitutional amendment that would have nullified Roe v. Wade. Senator Blumenthal continually lied about his service in Vietnam, and he has the gall to lecture Kavanaugh about honesty. Obama and others knowingly lied about Obamacare to get it passed. The Obama administration continually fed the media false info about Iran, and the media just printed the stories with no questions asked. Obama, Hillary, Rice, and others spread a false narrative about Benghazi to protect their political power. Obama lied about his knowledge of Fast and Furious, the IRS, and Hillary's emails. Holder, Rice, Clapper, Brennan, and others in the Obama administration lied to the media, and now they are in high demand to trash Trump. Obama, Hillary, Bill Clinton, Durbin, and Schumer have said similar tough things to Trump on illegal immigration, and not only weren't they called racists and xenophobes by Hollywood and the media, but they were supported, and now the media support them as they reverse course and trash Trump. The Democrats are suing Trump because, heaven forbid, foreigners stay in his hotels. They did not care at all about all the foreign money given to the Clintons. Cory Booker admits he physically assaulted a girl when he was young, and he trashes Kavanaugh for an unverified event. The media and Democrats gladly support Booker as senator and as he contemplates his run for president. Elizabeth Warren lied about her Native American heritage and enriched herself as she denigrates capitalism. Congress had a slush fund where congressmen paid off many accusers, yet the media and the #MeToo movement seem to have little interest in those who were accused or who was paid off. They must be afraid of what they would find. Comey said that no U.S. attorney would ever charge Hillary for continually violating the law because he couldn't tell that it was intentional. Does that even sound credible, or does it sound as though a biased FBI never had the intent to charge Hillary, Obama, or anyone else, no matter what they did? Since most of the media and other Democrats never cared about Hillary and others continually violating the law and getting let off, they have exactly zero credibility when they talk about law enforcement, the rule of law, and equal treatment under the law. Dianne Feinstein and others never cared about Christine Ford enough to ask the FBI to investigate during the hearing process or to ask Kavanaugh questions. They used Ford and her letter as a last resort to delay when everything else had failed. Christine Ford said she had no idea who was paying her leftist attorneys, but there was some fundraising. Then the attorneys said they were doing it for free, so why are there fundraisers? Is that even remotely credible? The #MeToo movement members act as if they had credibility, but they gladly support leftists who mentally and physically abuse women. The media themselves gladly print anonymous and unverified stories on many subjects as if they were true. Flake is obviously lobbying for a job at the networks after his constituents were going to fire him. He knows he will be loved and adored, as he acts like a Democrat. In summary, most of the media, Democrats, Hollywood, and the #MeToo movement will seek to destroy anyone who gets in their path to power. They have shown that the Democrat leftist agenda is more important than any woman or the truth. They also will support tough talk on illegal immigration as long as it comes from Democrats. Now we know for sure. There is not a single decent person among the Democrats in Congress. Because not one Democrat has had the fortitude to stand up and admit that what they are doing to Judge Brett Kavanaugh is obscene and grossly indecent, we must admit that there is not one of them with the moral sense to know that destroying a man for politics is wrong. It's not only wrong, but depraved. Not one Democrat member of the Senate, not one in the House. Those on the Judiciary Committee are particularly venal. Not one among the 95% of the leftist media has come to Kavanaugh's defense. Instead, they too are on a mission to ruin his life and keep him off the Supreme Court. They do not report the many inconsistencies in Christine Blasey Ford's vague account of her alleged encounter that effectively render it a lie. NBC never even mentioned Rachel Mitchell's report because it so seriously undermines Ford's narrative. It is doubtful there ever was such an incident. The very worst aspect of all this is that the Democrats in Congress all surely know that Kavanaugh is innocent of Blasey Ford's ridiculous accusation. They know, and they do not care. Perhaps Kavanaugh's life has been so exemplary, so successful, that he offends them. They loathe those of us who live by the traditional values they have long sought to upend. We are the deplorables who are mocked nightly by comedians who are not at all funny. The Democratic Party has ignored or protected the many actual abusers of women among their party: Ted Kennedy, Bill Clinton, and Keith Ellison, to name just a few. Hillary Clinton, the most self-unaware person on the planet, has a lot of nerve speaking out against Kavanaugh. She was in charge of Bill's "bimbo eruptions." Wouldn't we all like to know the names of those members of Congress for whom the taxpayers have paid a total of $17M to accusers of harassment and abuse far worse than anything Kavanaugh ever did? That the people of Connecticut keep electing Richard Blumenthal is a mystery. He lied for years about his service in Vietnam when he actually had five deferments. He is worth $70M but earns $174K a year. Booker, Harris, Whitehouse, Leahy, Durbin, and the rest of them are not fit to shine Kavanaugh's shoes, and at some level in their little pea brains, they know it. As the many lies and inconsistencies in Blasey Ford's story emerge, the Democrats are ramping up their "concerns" over Kavanaugh's beer consumption and the fact that he once threw ice at someone while in college. Oh, the horror. By these standards, not one person now in Congress could take office. As for Kavanaugh, he was number one in his class in high school and college, so it is safe to say he was no drunk. He was an extraordinarily well rounded young man hard-working, disciplined, and brilliant, and he knew how to have fun. Bottom line? The Democrats in Congress are the most hypocritical bunch of pols to gather in one place. While they are attacking Kavanaugh over ridiculous accusations by obviously disturbed women, they are excusing Keith Ellison and dismissing his accuser for lack of evidence even though she actually has some: texts and a contemporaneous medical report. Today, students at USC are demanding that a professor there, James Moore, be fired because he replied to a mass email that "survivors must be believed." He replied that "accusers sometimes lie" and that these students may have a different perspective on due process if they were accused of something they did not do. For that, they want him gone and are holding a rally in protest. Likewise, the Democrats in Congress no longer respect due process or the core of our system of justice, innocent until proven guilty. Blasey Ford and her lawyers and their fellow Democrat schemers in the Senate apparently thought her vague accusation would be enough to taint Kavanaugh out of his nomination. But Kavanaugh is made of sterner stuff. He is like the Biblical Job: a religious man who loves his family; his country; and the Constitution, that "little book" he carries that Kamala Harris mocked. The Democrat plan to make Kavanaugh withdraw has failed, and the Democrats have exposed themselves as the prurient, vulgar, and satanic people they are, wholly without a sense or shred of decency. Many millions of decent people in America are praying for his confirmation. Arizona prosecutor Rachel Mitchell has sent a summary report of her assessment of the accusations against Judge Brett Kavanaugh by Dr. Christine Blasey Ford. She concludes that the charge would not meet the standard for prosecution, not even success in a civil court proceeding. With 25 years of sex crimes prosecutorial experience, she is qualified to give her opinion. This will not satisfy the opposition, but it may serve as protection for the wobbly Republican senators Flake, Collins, and Murkowski. Mitchell has provided nine reasons for doubting the Blasey Ford account: 1. Dr. Ford has not offered a consistent account of when the alleged assault happened. 2. Ford has struggled to identify Judge Kavanaugh as the assailant by name. 3. When speaking with her husband, Dr. Ford changed her description of the incident to become less specific. 4. Dr. Ford has no memory of key details of the night in question details that could help corroborate her account. 5. Dr. Ford's account of the alleged assault has not been corroborated by anyone she identified as having attended including her lifelong friend. 6. Dr. Ford has not offered a consistent account of the alleged assault. 7. Dr. Ford has struggled to recall important recent events relating to her allegations, and her testimony regarding recent events raises further questions about her memory. 8. Dr. Ford's description of the psychological impact of the event raises questions. 9. The activities of congressional Democrats and Dr. Ford's attorneys likely affected Dr. Ford's account. Beyond these points are other inconsistencies, recently noted by J.R. Dunn. Dr. Ford is not a licensed psychologist. She was not honest about her reported fear of flying. Further, she described her need for a second front door as initiating the disruption in her marriage that led to the counseling sessions that exposed this allegation of sexual assault against Judge Kavanaugh. However, she made these changes to her house in 2008, four years prior to the therapy sessions. Added together, this information makes Dr. Ford less believable. Yet polling data show that the public is split on whether the accuser or the judge is more truthful. In a Rasmussen Reports poll released Oct. 1, 39-38% believe Judge Kavanaugh over Dr. Ford. Ten days earlier, the public favored Kavanaugh by 5 points. This does not consider the veracity of her statements, which are not collaborated by the four people she has named. With scant evidentiary support for the Ford allegations, her lawyer, Debra Katz, has friends seeking any dirt or information regarding the slang used in Kavanaugh's high school yearbook. Andrea Caputo Rose urged people to "use their voice" to prevent Kavanaugh from sitting on the Supreme Court. The curious thing for us is that Rose attended the Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart and claims to have socialized with and been a friend of Kavanaugh, who attended Georgetown Prep. Ford attended Holton-Arms High School, which is nearby. You can't make up this story. Rose is also soliciting information that might support Julie Swetnick, who attended Gaithersburg High School and was a college student at the time of her alleged incidents. Rose would also like information that would support Deborah Ramirez's accusations, which Ramirez claims occurred while attended Yale University with Kavanaugh. The media have been irresponsible and published stories requiring modification. For instance, NBC News had to amend its article implying that Kavanaugh lied when he stated he first heard of the Ramirez claims in the New Yorker article. NBC forgot to mention that he told the Senate investigators he had heard about her claims before the article appeared. The New York Times reported that the judge threw ice at someone while a student at Yale. Yet the byline includes a strongly anti-Kavanaugh activist, Emily Blazelon, a Yale Law School graduate. You can't make this stuff up! As the allegations by Ramirez appear to melt away, her lawyer, John Clune, has requested that the FBI question up to 20 potential witnesses to verify her claim that Kavanaugh exposed himself at a party while an undergraduate student. So far, no one has come forward. Even in the New Yorker article, there was no collaboration. Again, you could not write this novel. The most ludicrous story was presented by Julie Swetnick, who claimed that while she was a college student, she witnessed parties in which Kavanaugh and friend Mark Judge ran a gang-raping operation ("train"). In the NBC interview, she had to admit that she never witnessed Kavanaugh spike drinks or rape anyone. But he was there! How can these two men have managed this feat while high school students? Chevy Chase, Md. is a close-knit community. How does this happen without any other person being aware? How did they get so many girls to show up? Why would a college girl go to a high school party? Michael Avenatti, her lawyer (of porn star fame), answered this question by saying she was doing research. Her ex-boyfriend, Richard Vinneccey, challenges her claims and also says she threatened his child. This time, the Democrats may have picked on the wrong person. Even their supportive press enablers can't find enough serious defects in Brett Kavanaugh's life to ruin him. They claim that his anger at the Thursday hearings must disqualify him, for lack of judicial temperament. Even Senator Flake questioned this anger. Wow, this is the new Democratic talking point on the Senate floor, given by Senator Schumer and others. Real life is often the basis of many novels. But how could anyone imagine that the man who carried the nuclear codes while serving as President George W. Bush's staff secretary could be such a raging liar, alcoholic, and sexual predator and pass several FBI investigations previously? Only in the Twilight Zone. Are you listening, Senators Flake, Collins, and Murkowski? I came to Washington, D.C. in January 1981, a 37-year-old woman, to be president of the National Consumer Cooperative Bank (Coop Bank), a federally chartered lending institution. The Reagan administration wanted to rescind the charter of the bank. It was part of my job as the bank's president to make the case for the bank in the Congress. As part of that campaign, I went to see Speaker Tip O'Neill to appeal for his help in saving the bank. Although we had never met, the speaker knew me by reputation because I had been a crusading bank commissioner in Massachusetts for four years during Mike Dukakis's first term as governor. When I entered O'Neill's office, the speaker shook his big shaggy head and told me I had to deal with Congressman Freddie St. Germaine, the chair of the House Banking Committee. "You know how to deal with Freddie, don't you?" he asked me. I shook my head doubtfully. "Just walk into his office and sit on his lap and tell him what you want." The speaker smiled at my shocked look. "Stand up," he said. He enveloped me in a bear hug and then proceeded to run his hands all over my body. I stood there in total shock, not knowing what to do. Slapping my rear, he told me to go. He assured me that everything would be fine. I staggered out of his office. When I reported my humiliation to the bank's executive vice president and swore that I would never go into another congressman's office, he told me, "You can't report Tip to anyone, or the bank is done for. Anyway, do you think the Washington Post would report it?" He then advised me never to go into a congressman's office alone again. After that, I always took an aide with me, and when a congressman asked me to come into his private office alone, I always declined and explained that I needed my aide to take notes so I would not forget the congressman's information requests. I learned from Tip that congressmen believed that their positions of power meant they were free to sexually abuse women without the press reporting their behavior. Regardless of how high your position I was, after all, the president of a bank in their eyes, I was just "a girl." It was a sobering and infuriating realization. Earlier this year, House Democrats disclosed their slogan for the midterm elections: "For the People." The slogan was unveiled by Illinois rep. Cheri Bustos, co-chair of House Democrats' messaging arm, and her colleagues after a private meeting with members. While "For the People" sounds all-inclusive, recent events and comments by a number of Democrats have cast serious doubt on the sincerity of this message. More particularly, in the past month, Democrats have verbally attacked some in the judiciary, homosexuals, and men. This could end up costing them come November. Judiciary The confirmation process involving Judge Kavanaugh provides a sad yet perfect example of the hypocrisy of the Democratic slogan. Since his appointment, Judge Kavanaugh and his family have been the victims of a vicious and vile character assassination for the sole purpose of keeping a conservative-minded judge off of the bench. The Senate Democrats, including Dianne Feinstein, launched this attack to obstruct and delay Kavanaugh's confirmation until after the midterms in hopes that they regain the Senate (which would allow them to block any of President Trump's conservative appointments for the Supreme Court). The devastating attack on Kavanaugh and his family had nothing to do with helping the people of this country. To the contrary, and according to Thomas Jipping, "Democrats have slowed the confirmation process to a slog because they can, but it's taking a serious toll on the judiciary. Vacancies are now more than 30 percent higher than when Trump took office, and at the level they are today, the American people who must bring matters to the courts are getting shortchanged." This politicized attack on Kavanaugh and his family has led people to Walk Away from the Democratic Party. This could have an impact at the polls in the upcoming elections. Men Not only did some Democrats verbally attack Kavanaugh and his family, but Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) of the Senate Judiciary Committee instructed the men of this country to "shut up." Hirono expected "the enlightened men in our country" to "rise up to say, 'We cannot continue the victimization and the smearing of someone like Dr. Ford.'" She then blamed men for perpetuating this type of action. Hirono's ill advised comments about the men of the country do not align with the Democrats' purported desire to work "for the people." To the contrary, her unwarranted generalizations about all men were nonsensical and divisive. According to Senator Lindsey Graham, "I know I'm a single white male from South Carolina and I'm told I should shut up, but I will not shut up, if that's okay," adding that the experience had been "hell" for Kavanaugh and "the most unethical sham since I've been in politics." Hirono's statement also fired up the Republican base: The sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett M. Kavanaugh have sparked a wave of unbridled anger and anxiety from many Republican men, who say they are in danger of being swept up by false accusers who are biased against them." This eruption of male resentment now seems likely to play a defining role in the midterm elections just five weeks away, contrasting with a burst of enthusiasm among women propelling Democratic campaigns and inspired by the national #MeToo reckoning over sexual assault and gender roles. Time will tell how this translates at the voting booth. Sexual Orientation Following Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing, Senator Lindsey Graham sent a tweet strongly defending Judge Kavanaugh. In response, Rosie O'Donnell verbally attacked Graham, calling him a "closeted idiot." Kathy Griffin "joined in on the gay-bashing," referring to Graham as a "she" and calling him "Miss Lindsey Graham" in a tweet. Jimmy Kimmel also "engaged in gay-bashing, comparing Graham to Liberace, a famous gay performer." Finally, "HBO host Bill Maher went even lower, not only joking about Graham being gay, but poking at the late John McCain as well. Maher joked that Graham needed the 'stabilizing influence of his dead boyfriend.'" These statements are not unifying; they malign people based on their sexual orientation. While it is commendable for the government to work "for the people," recent comments and statements by various Democrats raise some red flags. There is an old saying that "if your actions do not prove the truth of your words, then your words are nothing more than lies." While Democrats want the American public to believe they are "for the people," recent comments against people in various sects of society have cast serious doubt about the sincerity of this message. In the past month alone, Democrats have verbally attacked a member of the judiciary and his family, stigmatized all of the men in the country following the alleged incident involving Dr. Ford, and mocked one or more people based on their (alleged) sexual orientation. Come November, if the American people reject this slogan as an insincere ruse, it could cost the Democrats at the polls! Mr. Hakim's articles have been published in The Daily Caller, The Federalist, The Western Journal, American Thinker, WND, and other online publications. https://thoughtfullyconservative.wordpress.com Twitter: @Elad3599 In short: Facebook is facing a ten-figure fine from the European Union over the latest data breach that it estimates compromised some 50 million users on a global level. Irelands Data Protection Commission revealed less than 10-percent of the affected users are EU citizens but confirmed its looking into the matter earlier this week. In theory, the agency could issue the company with a fine amounting to up to four percentage points of its annual revenue due to the transgression, as per the General Data Protection Regulation which went into effect in late May. Background: Facebooks consolidated financial report for 2017 revealed a turnover north of $40 billion, meaning its theoretical fine may rise above $1.6 billion. The European Commission has been cracking down on problematic behavior from American companies for some time now, with Google so far bearing the bulk of the pressure as the company ended up breaking the record for the largest EU-issued antitrust fine on two occasions within a year. The GDPR is also related to that endeavor, though the legislation is primarily aimed at improving the digital privacy of all EU citizens, regardless of their online services of choice. Facebook actually tried to profile itself into one of the largest GDPR supporters, having pledged to implement its basic principles into all of its privacy policies, even those affecting users from outside of the EU. Despite that pledge, the company moved to circumvent the rules as much as possible immediately following their introduction. Impact: The EUs track record with regulating Facebook suggests the maximum fine for the companys latest data breach is unlikely. Regardless, the development marks one of the GDPRs first major tests as despite being one of the strictest data privacy laws ever introduced in the West, the effectiveness of the legislation will depend on how aggressively its enforced. In short: Microsoft has now announced a new set of noise-cancelling wireless headphones equipped with Cortana, the Surface Headphones. At present, the company has not confirmed much of the availability information other than stating the headphones are initially expected to only be available to buy in the US and the UK, and in time for the holidays. Likewise, Microsoft has yet to confirm pricing for its new Surface Headphones. Background: As the name suggests, these headphones are primarily designed to work with the companys Surface line of products, and were announced during the Surface event that took place today in New York where a number of Surface-related products and features were unveiled. However, these are in effect just Bluetooth headphones and so while they are likely to offer additional benefits when used with Microsoft-branded products, they will just as easily work with any Bluetooth-enabled device, including Android smartphones. Impact: The launch of the Surface Headphones will see Microsoft moving firmly into the premium headphone market, in much the same way Apple, Google, and Samsung already have. While the pricing has not been officially confirmed yet, these do definitely seem to be positioned as a premium option due to the inclusion of an on board AI, the use of an over-the-ear design to facilitate noise-cancellation (this is an adjustable noise-cancellation as well with up to 13 levels to choose from), and 40mm drivers which are expected to offer a heightened sound quality. There are also some other notable and over-the-top features included, such as the ability for the headphones to automatically start and stop when they are removed from the head. As well as the inclusion of eight microphones, four of which are beamforming mics to assist with Cortanas ability to hear the wearer. According to Microsoft, the ear cups also include dials which let the wearer adjust either the volume or the noise-cancellation. This is all in addition to the more standard features one might expect from a pair of headphones, including the ability to make and take hands-free calls, and of course, music playback. A brief overview of some of the main features, as well as a closer look at the general design of the Surface Headphones can be seen in the new promotional video below. In short: Microsoft has announced a new Your Phone app-related feature which is designed to mirror the use of apps on an Android phone to Windows. Effectively, the app will now let users engage more with their smartphone without having to physically turn away from using Windows. The updated Your Phone app is now available as part of the new Windows 10 October 2018 Update which is understood to be available now. Users can prompt the update to install right now or wait for Microsoft to start to push the update automatically to their device within the coming days. Background: Microsoft announced the latest improvements to its Your Phone service including the ability to mirror phone apps on Windows as part of the companys Surface event which took place today, and where a number of new product announcements were made, including a new pair of wireless Surface Headphones. This is basically an extension of a feature that was already available to Android users who had previously downloaded the corresponding Android version of the Your Phone app from the Google Play Store. The difference being that previously what the app could mirror was fairly limited to viewing images and websites. Now, however, the idea is the new version is a more robust solution which offers greater integration including the option to view, send and receive SMS messages and more from a compatible Windows 10-running device. Impact: Its not that surprising Microsoft has now made this announcement considering the Your Phone app was already preparing for this. Even more so when you consider the company has had to largely abandon its own smartphone ambitions which would have inevitably left a dent in the companys intention to offer a unified experience across devices. Since that abandoning Microsoft has been increasing the integration between its own products and the Android operating system, with this being one of the most recent examples. This is likely to still be a work in progress and something that will improve over time as greater mirroring support is routinely added. For now, the main requirement on the Android side of things is the smartphone must be running Android 7.0 (Nougat) at a minimum. Introduction Do we have a good one for you today the Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus takes on HTC U12 Plus. Both, physically beautiful in their in own right, and yet are very different in looks. The Galaxy S9 Plus certainly has more features, but also a higher price do those features justify the higher selling price or would you be happy with the HTC U12 Plus and a few extra bucks in your pocket? One nice thing is that many carriers are offering big discounts on the Galaxy S9 and thus lowering its price. Most users want a great display, the best processor, lots of RAM, expandable storage, and a great camera these two models will provide those. We will look at what these two devices have in common, and then after viewing the specifications, we will look at both devices in more depth to help determine the winner of this comparison. There are several features that these two devices share. The displays are close to the same size, both offer a QHD+ resolution and an 18:9 aspect ratio, HDR10, and both use some sort of always-on support. The Galaxy S9 Plus and the HTC U12 Plus both use the Snapdragon 845 and the Adreno 630, along with 6GB of RAM and a base of 64GB of expandable internal storage. They both contain dual cameras with 12-megapixel main cameras, and although the U12 Plus has a dual front-facing camera (FFC) both of these devices use an 8-megapixel sensor. They use the same sized, 3,500 mAh non-removable battery and both offer quick charge support. Even their physical size is almost identical, as is their weight, and they both feature the usual suspects Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth v5.0, and a USB 3.1 Type-C port for charging and data transfer. Both offer Google Pay, Hi-Res audio with stereo speakers, IP68 water-resistance, and facial recognition. Both come with Android 8.0 that will be upgraded to Android 9 Pie, and both will work on all major US networks, except for the U12 Plus on Sprints network. Advertisement Please take a careful look at the detailed specifications comparison chart below and there you will see just how these two high-end Android smartphones stack up against each other. Which one is the better purchase by offering the most technology for the least amount of money? This is the type of questions we will attempt to answer. Specifications Advertisement Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus Samsung did not make many major changes to the Galaxy S9 or S9 Plus this year since the company did a major overhaul on the Galaxy S8 series. It is now easier to pick up and hold the device without accidentally pressing an app and opening it. The biggest changes (and excitement) are in the addition of stereo speakers which contribute to an improved listening experience. Last year, the Galaxy Note 8 received dual cameras a first for a Samsung device and this setup migrated to the Galaxy S9 Plus. Intelligent Scan is a new addition that uses the Facial Recognition and Iris Scan simultaneously for a faster and more secure biometric unlock. The fingerprint sensor is now below the camera area to prevent less smudges on the camera lens. Samsung included AR Emoji its answer to Apples Memoji although its still largely considered a work in progress. Stolen from the Galaxy Note 8, the new Galaxy S9 Plus uses the same sized 6.2-inch Super AMOLED Infinity Display. There are certainly improvements to brightness and color, but it remains with a QHD+ resolution of 2960 x 1440 pixels, and this equates to 529 pixels-per-inch (PPI). Gorilla Glass 5 protects the display and the entire device. The Galaxy S9 Plus uses the Always-On display that hovers over the display with the time, day, date, and battery percentage. This helps save battery life, but more importantly, it allows the user to quickly glance at their notifications to see if any need immediate attention. Advertisement Samsung continues its tradition of selling two models of its flagship smartphones one for select regions including the US and one for other countries. The US version uses the same Snapdragon 845 octa-core processor clocked at 2.8 GHz and an Adreno 630 GPU found in the HTC U12 Plus. The Galaxy S9 Plus sold elsewhere uses Samsungs own octa-core Exynos 9810 processor and a Mali-G72-MP18 GPU. Samsung upped the RAM to 6GB and the storage to 64GB, although there is also the option (in select regions) to purchase a 128GB or 256GB version. Regardless of which model chosen they all offer expandable storage. As more manufacturers are using dual cameras on their smartphones, it had long been expected Samsung would add a similar setup to its flagships. The Galaxy Note 8 was the first to get dual cameras, and now the Galaxy S9 Plus is second on that list. Samsung took the Galaxy Note 8s dual cameras and refined them before adding them to the Galaxy S9 Plus. The dual 12-megapixel cameras use improved Super Dual Pixels, and comes with PDAF, OIS, 2x Optical Zoom, 10x Digital Zoom, and LED flash. The biggest improvement is the adaptive aperture that goes from a small f/2.4 for bright situations areas to a large f/1.5 for low-light areas. The second camera has a fixed f/2.4 aperture and Live Focus for bokeh effects. The FFC is an 8-megapixel sensor with a fixed f/1.7 aperture that not only includes auto-HDR, but also has its own autofocus for great selfies and video chatting. Bigger is not always better, and when it comes to battery size that saying could not be more true. Many critics were disappointed that Samsung did not increase the battery on the new Galaxy S9 Plus from the non-removable 3,500 mAh capacity found in last years model. However, the Snapdragon 845 has improved power management built-in, as does the Galaxy S9 Plus, so you should make it through a normal day, and when a charge is needed the user does have the option of choosing between Samsungs Adaptive Charging and quick wireless charging. Advertisement Samsung adds a lot of bloatware to its smartphones and some prove more useful than others, such as Samsung Pay and Samsung Health. There is also an increase in the number of hardware-related features on offer including a heart rate sensor, an SpO2 oxygen sensor, and the new Blood Pressure monitor. Then there is also the improved DeX support which with the help of a dongle turns a TV into a computer. While Samsung Connect allows you to connect to your Samsung IoT products, including appliances and thermostats. The device measures 158.1 x 73.8 x 8.5 mm and weighs in at 189 grams. It comes in Midnight Black, Coral Blue, Titanium Gray, or Lilac Purple, with Samsung having announced an additional Red version in China. Retail pricing ranges from $915 to $930, but there are usually quite a few promotions available. HTC U12 Plus Advertisement Years ago, HTC made some very good-looking smartphones, and then they went all-metal starting with the HTC One series that delivered improved audio. This beautiful metal casing evolved for a few years, as did the companys BoomSound solution. With the HTC U11, the switch was made to all-glass. The HTC U12 Plus is all-glass phone with a stunning design, but passed on the wireless charging feature found on other high-end smartphones made from glass. In addition, the U12 Plus is also missing other core features like a 3.5mm headphone jack. HTC also did away with the usual clicking rocker buttons that we normally see on/off and volume and replaced them with a new smooth, digital response button that responds based on how its pressed. Some of the more unusual features on offer include a dual FFC, allowing you to add a bokeh effect to selfies. HTC is selling the phone unlocked, but it will not work on the Sprint network. HTC continues to use the LCD display technology rather than the better AMOLED, but the display does adopt a QHD+ resolution with 2880 x 1440 pixels, giving the HTC U12 Plus a 537 PPI. It stands at a perfect 6.0-inches with no notch. HTC uses an 18:9 aspect ratio that gives the smartphone a taller and narrower look, making it look larger and more modern. This ratio makes watching movies or video better, and if you use multi-windows for multi-tasking you will have 2 square windows to work in. As with most 2018 flagships, the U12 Plus uses the Snapdragon 845 quad-core clocked 2.8 GHz. For graphics, the Adreno 630 GPU is used to handle anything from intense gaming to videos and movies. The HTC U12 Plus come comes packed with 6GB of RAM and 64GB of expandable storage. You can still order a 128GB model, but with cheap expandable storage, why bother? A large 3,500 mAh capacity battery powers the device, and it comes with Quick Charge 3.0 with 4.0 also available. Even though it has a glass back, the HTC U12 Plus does not support wireless charging. When most manufacturers were raising their cameras megapixel, HTC decided to use its own UltraPixel less pixels, but much larger, claiming you were getting the same clarity using less pixels. On the U12 Plus buyers will find the new UltraPixel 4 which includes 12-megapixels for the main camera and 16 for the secondary camera. The 12-UltraPixel 4 sensor has an aperture of f/1.8 and OIS to increase stability, as well as PDAF and laser autofocus. The secondary 16-UltraPixel 4 camera features an aperture of f/2.6 and 2x optical zoom, autofocus, and a dual-tone LED flash that works for both cameras. HTC uses a dual 8-megapixel sensors for the FFC that includes a bokeh effect and an f/2.0 aperture. Advertisement Designing a beautiful smartphone has never been HTCs problem and the Flame Red and Translucent Blue are two striking models. The company introduced a curved back giving the user a better grip, which not only helps when picking up the phone but also when holding it for extended periods of time. The dual cameras are excellent, as are the BoomBox speakers. It does not have an AMOLED display, but it does have a QHD+ resolution. The improved Edge Sense is a worthy feature that can be quite useful, although removing the clicky buttons might make it more difficult for some users to press the digital replacements. The device measures 156.6 x 73.9 x 8.7 mm and weighs in at 188 grams. It comes in Ceramic Black, Translucent Blue, or Flame Red. It will cost you $799 for the 6GB/64GB version and $849 for the 6GB/128GB version. And The Winner Is Advertisement The Final Word The HTC U12 Plus with its Gorilla Glass 3 design does include a number of additions, such as dual front-facing cameras, improved Edge Sensor, Amazon Alexa, and pressure-sensitive buttons, although the improved Galaxy S9 Plus is still the winner of this comparison. With its Gorilla Glass 5 design, Super AMOLED display still the best in the business quick wireless charging, Samsung Pay, Samsung Connect, 3.5mm headphone jack, FM radio, DeX capability, Iris Scan, Intelligent Scan, heart rate monitor, SpO2 sensor, and the ability to work on all major US carriers, its the better phone overall, and for only about $100 more its the better buy. If you are a fan of HTC, then the U12 Plus should make you happy. If you are a Samsung fan, then the Galaxy S9 Plus will make you extremely happy. If you want one of the best phones on the market at a comparable price, the Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus is the one to go for. A Samsung-branded foldable phone may be showcased for the first time as early as next month, according to a report by Korea Times. The company is holding its two-day Samsung Developer Conference (SDC) in November in San Francisco, where the next-generation smartphone is expected to be previewed. An unnamed Samsung official provided the intel to the publication without revealing any other particular about the ambitious handset. The conference is scheduled for November 7 and 8, and will largely deal with the companys future software strategies with artificial intelligence (AI) and the internet of things (IoT) in focus, though a sneak peek at such an unconventional hardware design wouldnt hurt. The official added that only a limited set of information about the foldable phone will be revealed at the event while it should be detailed at its dedicated launch event in the near future. The South Korean company will reportedly include a 7-inch OLED display on its upcoming phone that will fold into a 4.5-inch one. These numbers make it a little difficult to comprehend how exactly the phones design will enable foldability and they dont match with previous leaks either. Last September, a report surfaced revealing the exact display measurements for the said Samsung foldable phone. The handset was then said to feature two displays, one being a 4.6-inch panel on the outer side when the phone is in its folded state, and another measuring 7.3 inches that will actually fold while being placed on the opposite side. Samsung Display is likely to provide display panels for this smartphone too as it does for most Galaxy devices, however, the Samsung Electronics subsidiary declined to comment on this matter. Samsung here seems eager to not let the first foldable phone maker title slip out of its hold to any other brand as many of them have hopped on the bandwagon of making devices with foldable displays a reality. Not too long ago, Lenovo showcased a prototype of its tablet with a foldable form factor and more recently the Chinese OEM released a video of its flexible smartphone along with a suggested unveiling later in October. Samsung was earlier expected to announce its foldable device alongside the Galaxy S10 series next year, which also coincides with the flagship series tenth anniversary, but with this new report, the company seems willing to make it official a little early than what was predicted. In short: European Commissioner for Competition Margrethe Vestager used Google as an example of clear antitrust behavior while speaking at a Wednesday gathering in Paris, France. Googles contracts with phone makers and operators that used its Android operating system discouraged rivals from producing innovative search apps and operating systems, the top EU official said at the Terra Nova 10th Anniversary Debate earlier today. Enforcing rules that regulate fair competition is of paramount importance if the European Unions economy is to continue thriving moving forward, the 50-year-old Danish politician concluded. Background: Ms. Vestager has been one of the most vocal and aggressive critics of the tech industrys anti-competitive practices in recent years and her agency handed two historic antitrust fines to Google since the summer of 2017. While Alphabets subsidiary is currently appealing both rulings that allege it abused the dominant position of Android and Search in order to promote its other solutions and simultaneously hurt its rivals, The Competition Commissioner dismissed its defenses and criticized its unwillingness to settle in a timely manner. The two fines amount to the equivalent of over $6 billion, which is still a minor sum in the context of the conglomerates latest earnings report that revealed it generated more than $32 billion with $2.8 billion in profit in the second quarter of this year alone. Impact: Coupled with the recent arrival of the General Data Protection Regulation, Google is currently facing significant pressure in Europe and will likely be revamping its business strategy for the Old Continent in the near future. The two antitrust fines its presently appealing are likely to be followed by a third one in the coming months as the European Commission is still investigating its potential abuse of its online advertising platform, by far the largest such solution in the world. The issues come at an inopportune time as Google is already under massive scrutiny in its home country where its defending against allegations of Search bias from conservatives and is also being put on the spot for not doing enough to combat foreign election interference efforts that abuse its platforms. Al-Hoceima (Morocco)"Mohamed VI, close the door behind you when you leave," says a young man from the Rif, the Tamazight region of northern Morocco, fleeing in a boat from the Al-Hoceima beaches with a group of friends to reach the Spanish coast. There are so many videos like this circulating on Facebook and YouTube that the Moroccan government threatened to prosecute their authors this week. Although the media focus is on sub-Saharan migrants, Moroccans are now the largest group among nationalities clandestinely crossing the Straits of Gibraltar and the Alboran Sea, making up approximately 20% of the 31,822 migrants who have arrived by sea in Spain this year, according to UNHCR. The figures have multiplied by four since last summer. The causes are multiple, but there are three that stand out: unemployment, the repression with which the 'makhzen' (the state apparatus) is drowning the popular movement of the Rif, and compulsory military service that King Mohamed VI unexpectedly resumed a few weeks ago. No future "There is nothing here, neither future nor hope. There is no work, no school, no sense that things can improve," explains Mohamed, a 20-year-old boy who has spent four months hiding in his parents town. He was being searched for by the police for participating in protests last year. The young man's list of grievances is long: His younger siblings go to school, but the teacher many days does not appear in class, and the nearest university is so far away that his father, a fisherman, can not afford the expenses of transportation or rent for a room; nor does he find work. But the worst thing is that he does not want to stop for long because he fears the police will detain him: He only just decided to return home now that a relative with contacts in the Ministry of the Interior has told him his file has been closed archived. But he does not trust this. Mohamed VI, who sought to discredit the Rif movement by accusing it of separatism and foreign funding, has tried to calm spirits with a reconciliation policy that has brought promises of development in the countryside. He has also responded to the protests of the Hiraq by passing responsibility to the parties and government ministers, some of whom have resigned. But discomfort continues, because unemployment in the Rif double that of the country's average and the mountainous areas remain isolated, with health and education even more precarious than in the rest of Morocco. State of siege The region continues in a state of siege and the military and police presence is clearly visible throughout the city, with army camps and agents in the Saha Square, which was the meeting place for protesters two years ago. "Now they do not let five people come together," explains the young man. The protest last Sunday in Nador to demand the freedom of political prisoners was also quickly dissolved by the police. It is no coincidence that Rifian emigration took off during the summer of 2017, after movement leader Nasser Zefzani was detained with the rest of the leadership. More than eight hundred Rifians (including 158 minors) have been tried for participating in the protests, which were mostly peaceful, and 400 have been convicted. The most seasoned activists warn that the regime also uses emigration as a valve for releasing social tensions. "Before the beaches were very much controlled. Now a few friends hire a boat and they leave without anyone stopping them; you just need to pay a bribe to the guard on duty," claims a young lawyer who asks for anonymity for fear of retribution. "It is no coincidence that the increase in emigration coincides with the protests: The same thing happened in the 80s and 90s. Police are concentrating on capturing Sub-Saharan people to demonstrate to the EU that they are doing the job of policing its borders, but the regime is fine with young people leaving. " In the social networks a post with the image of one of the massive demonstrations of Al-Hoceima is circulated next to another one of a full boat: The yesterday and the today. The restoration of mandatory military service, with a one-year duration for both boys and girls, is also pushing younger people to leave. "They think that this way the young people will be controlled so that there will be no more demonstrations: if you do the service you then enter the military reserve and if you are caught at a demonstration they judge you under military law, with a much harsher sentence. I would prefer emigrate in a small boat than to do the service," says a young Nador law student who also asks not to be identified. Young people are not the only ones who want to leave. A close friend of Zafzani who is being searched for and lives hidden in a small village in the interior recognizes that he is also looking for a way to emigrate. "We all want to leave now that we have lost hope that things can change, because the repression has crushed everything. The reports of rape and torture in prisons are constant. People are afraid and we know that the government of France and 'Spain will not help us because they have interests in Morocco. We are threatened and intimidated and we want to flee to make a better life. If I get caught, they will torture me and they will take me to a prison far away from home. I do not worry for me but for my family. Me too, if I have the opportunity, I will leave. I am tired of being hidden," he summarizes. In the videos that young Rifians share, migration is shown as a step towards freedom: "Freedom is a human right: where is our freedom?" "We rather die with dignity than live humiliated," "health is a human right" called 11 activists from a boat in a video released last week that has become viral. They are all slogans that were used in the protests. Three of the young men had been released with the amnesty that Mohamed VI decreed on August 21. But the dark side of this trend can be seen in the videos recorded on the other side of the border. On September 3, some Andalusian fishermen in the high seas came upon a teenage boy in a toy boat, dehydrated and totally disoriented, rowing with his arms in the middle of nowhere. The fisherman films with his cell phone and asks if there are more shipwrecks: "Where are your friends? This is a shame, man, hes just a kid. We're gonna get you, okay?" MadridEnric Millo, the former Spanish government representative to Catalonia on 1 October 2017 and highest-ranking Spanish authority in Catalonia during the application of direct rule, will receive the Great Silver Cross for Civil Merit from the Guardia Civil. The proposal was made by the Mariano Rajoy administration and will be signed off by Fernando Grande-Marlaska, the current Socialist Interior Minister, before the celebration of the Corps honorary day on October 12. Along with Millos decoration, there other high Spanish office-holders in Catalonia will also be recognised, including all of the representatives and deputies appointed by the Rajoy government. Sources close to the Spanish minister have stated that they did not want to be "sectarian" and have authorized a process initiated by the Rajoy government. The medal will not be accompanied by any economic remuneration. Coinciding with the anniversary of October 1 (1-O), Millo reaffirmed to ARA that "the police acted proportionally" during their actions one year ago. In an interview, he again blamed Carles Puigdemont, ex-President of the Generalitat, and his government for everything that happened that day. Cleries: "They're decorating him for every truncheon blow" Marlaska appeared on Tuesday before the Senates Interior Committee, where PDeCAT spokesman Josep Lluis Cleries questioned him over Millos recognition. "Are you decorating him for every truncheon blow we took on 1-O?," asked Cleries ironically. The Catalan senator said that he does not see any change of behavior" between the PSOE and PP governments if Millo is decorated. "On 1-O we were assaulted by violence from the State and we hoped that his ministry will hold those responsible to account, but now the governments representative at the time is being decorated," said Cleries, who added that this award can be understood as an "insult". In his response to Cleries the Spanish minster justified the medal because it is a proposal from the previous administration and he does not want to be sectarian. "I do not like being sectarian, and if I have the proposals and there is nothing very specific that changes the possibility of understanding this decoration as appropriate I will not withdraw it," he said. He specified that it is a recognition of his public life "whether or not you agree with his actions in their entirety". Held under the patronage of HH Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Chairman of the BIAS Supreme Organising Committee and personal representative to His Majesty the King, BIAS occupies a strategic position on the global aerospace calendar, bringing some of the worlds leading and most influential organisations to the Sakhir Airbase. Although one of the Middle Easts youngest shows, in just eight years BIAS has seen major expansion making it the fastest-growing show in the region: Exhibitor numbers for 2018 are up by 70 per cent compared with the previous show The Exhibition Hall has doubled in size There are four new country pavilions including the US and Russia Regional heavyweights all set to participate, with largest ever Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates presence 11 out of the worlds top 15 aerospace companies are exhibiting More than 100 aircraft flying and on static display Fuelling this is Bahrains growing status as a transportation hub along with BIASs commitment to creating innovative show features and a world-class commercial environment. His Excellency Engineer Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Bahrain Minister of Transportation and Telecommunication said: BIAS 2018 will bring international business and senior government figures from across the region together in one location. It will be our most engaging and diverse yet with a packed schedule of events including a three-day delegation programme, a focused conference programme and an insightful exhibition showcasing the latest in technology and innovation." He added: "The regional aviation industry is growing fast and Bahrain is better positioned than ever to provide opportunities to leverage this. From our investment in airport and aviation related infrastructure and technologies, to being a regional leader in regulations and human talent development, the aviation industrys contribution to economic development is at new heights. BIAS capitalises on Bahrains strategically important location as a gateway to the Gulf and underscores the Kingdoms internationally recognised reputation as being a pro-business environment. Amanda Stainer, Commercial Director for Farnborough International, co-organisers of the Bahrain International Airshow, says: When we created the Bahrain International Airshow on behalf of the Kingdom we could not have predicted the pace and scale at which it has grown. Since the first event in 2010, the show has seen it exhibitor base increase by 70% and a 75% increase in visitor numbers. It is now one of the regions most important and influential trade events. Air Display The Bahrain International Airshow always delivers one of the most exciting and varied air displays on the circuit. As well as fast jets and the very latest in business and civil aviation, the show will also feature some aerobatic flying displays some new to the show; the sky above the Sakhir Airbase will be a focus for one of the worlds best aviation showcases. Conferences On 13 November, the Royal Bahraini Air Force hosts the second Manana Air Power Symposium, bringing together air force chiefs and leading experts from across the region to address emerging issues. BIAS again unites aerospace and airport infrastructure with a conference entitled Into the Future: Challenges and Opportunities for Gulf Region Airports and Airlines, inviting industry leaders and experts to share experience and expertise. This conference continues a theme started in 2016 when the show served as the backdrop to around $1.1bn in contracts being signed as part of the upgrade to Bahrain International Airports infrastructure and services. A Women in Aviation conference on the third day of the show will serve as a valuable forum for women across the industry to discuss seizing opportunities for career development in the aviation field. The BIAS FINN Sessions are a free-to-attend programme of conferences located in a theatre in the heart of the exhibition hall. Organised in conjunction with FINN the Farnborough International News Network, the BIAS FINN Sessions will enable exhibitors to share their knowledge and experiences. Space Space is a major focus for BIAS 2018, a dedicated exhibition has attracted a number of space research centres and organisations including the UAE Space Agency, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation), Roscosmos and Information Satellite Systems. This presents a valuable knowledge-sharing opportunity particularly for the Bahrain Space Team who will be presenting their latest work on nanosatellite technology. The document was signed by H.E. Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Higher Education and Advanced Skills, and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency, and The Honourable James Bridenstine, Administrator at NASA during a ceremony at the 69th International Astronautical Congress, being held in Bremen, Germany between 15 October. The IA falls under the overarching Framework Agreement signed between the UAESA and NASA in June 2016, which established a framework for areas of cooperation in ground-based research; sub-orbital research; research and flight activities in low-Earth orbit (LEO); and human and robotic exploration in the vicinity of the moon, on the lunar surface, and beyond. The new IA enables the training arrangements for UAE astronauts to be discussed. It also provides further opportunities for the UAE to utilise the International Space Station (ISS), and for the UAE Space Agency to contribute to lunar exploration. Al Falasi said: This significant agreement builds on our bilateral relationship with NASA and the US space sector. It also reflects the deep economic, cultural and diplomatic ties shared between the United States of America and the United Arab Emirates. The global space sector is built on international collaboration, and we welcome these substantial opportunities to work closer than ever before with our counterparts at NASA. He added: Our national space sector has reached a highly advanced stage, particularly with regards to the opportunities and expertise prevalent throughout. By advancing our international cooperation in space, we aim to further develop these local capacities through more sophisticated space missions and drive the growth of the national space sector. The signing of this agreement reflects the UAE Space Agencys commitment to further strengthening partnerships with the most important space agencies around the world, with a shared aspiration to launch space exploration projects that benefit humanity in its entirety. It is also in line with the UAEs objectives of bolstering its presence within the global space sector. Bridenstine said: As NASA builds cooperation for the return of humans to the Moon for long-term exploration and utilization, we welcome the opportunity to expand our partnership with the UAE Space Agency as it builds its significant capabilities on Earth, in low-Earth orbit, and beyond. UAE is currently working with US Universities to build an orbiter Hope, to launch in 2020 and reach Mars in 2021.Im delighted to sign this agreement signifying our deepening relationship as we move forward into the next phase of exploration. The IA also outlines opportunities for ground based research projects at the UAEs Mars Scientific City in collaboration with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), a landmark research and development facility that aims to simulate conditions on the Red Planet and is set to launch in 2020. As part of the agreement, and in collaboration with MBRSC, the UAE Space Agency and NASA will explore the feasibility of conducting field studies and research in space biology, physical sciences and human research at the City. The projects will aim to make use of Mars Scientific City and the NASA Human Research Analog, a unique facility dedicated to investigating the effects of spaceflight on human beings. H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al Ahbabi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, said: The document we have signed today represents another major milestone in our vision to become a leading spacefaring nation, offering the opportunity for knowledge sharing and close collaboration with NASA in regards to our astronaut program. With the first Emirati astronaut set to board the ISS in April 2019, this agreement with NASA will allow MBRSC and the UAE Space Agency to further build on our human spaceflight experiences. H.E. Yousuf Al Shaibani, Director General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), said: The UAE represented by UAESA is taking another significant step by signing this strategic partnership with one of the worlds leading space institutions. I would like to thank and congratulate the UAE Space Agency for their continuous efforts in developing the national space sector. This collaboration agreement with NASA reflects our limitless ambition to build on global partnerships and launch initiatives that benefit both UAE and the globe. Al Shaibani added: This agreement is particularly notable for MBRSC as it is an introduction to future collaborations across a range of MBRSC programmes from the UAE Astronaut Program to Mars 2117 project. The International Astronautical Congress 2018 runs from October 1 to October 5, and is being held under the theme of involving everyone. The next IAC will be held in Washington, DC in 2019, and last year, the UAE was selected to host IAC 2020 in Dubai, coinciding with the launch of the regions first interplanetary mission, the Mars Hope Probe. The airlines flagship double-decker has become the first-ever scheduled A380 service to Ghana, demonstrating the airports readiness to accommodate the A380, the worlds largest commercial passenger jet The special Emirates A380 flight was operated by Accra-born Ghanaian, Capt Solomon Quainoo and UAE national, First Officer Faisal Alhammadi. The A380 flight, operating as EK 787, was joined by a top-level delegation led by Orhan Abbas, Emirates Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations - Africa, H.E. Ahmed Ramadan Ambassador of Ghana to the U.A.E, Simon Atieku - Vice Council of Ghana (Dubai & N.E) - Consulate General of Ghana, Akwasi Abayie Adomako - Minister Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission Ghana, Hesham Abdulla Qassim Al Qassim CEO - Wasl Group & Vice Chairman ENBD, Vinay Malhotra Chief Operating Officer, VFS, Lt. Col. Ibrahim Hamad Ibrahim Abdalla Al Maazmi Dept. of Naturalisation & Residency Dubai, Majed Sultan Murad Ali Al Joker - Executive Vice President Corporate Affairs, Dubai Airports. Upon landing at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, the aircraft was met with a ceremonial water cannon salute, and the Emirates delegation was welcomed by government officials and airport executives. After a welcoming ceremony, government officials, VIPs, media and members of the travel industry were given a guided tour of the A380 by Emirates cabin crew. Orhan Abbas, Emirates Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Africa said: We are honoured to bring our flagship A380 to the impressive new terminal at Kotoka International Airport, as it demonstrates its full capabilities with the handling of the first A380 aircraft. Accra is an important destination in Africa and we remain committed to providing our customers in Ghana with the world class services we are known for. The Emirates A380 has been at the centre of innovation, and bringing this popular aircraft to Accra is a significant milestone in our operations to Ghana, where we will soon celebrate 15 successful years. We thank the Ghanaian government, the Ministry of Aviation and the government authorities whose support has been instrumental in making todays one-off service a success. The special Emirates A380 flight was operated by Accra-born Ghanaian, Capt Solomon Quainoo and UAE national, First Officer Faisal Alhammadi. Royal Jordanian has launched an all-new frequent flyer programme that offers loyal, frequent travellers a more rewarding, attractive and flexible package carrying the name of Royal Club; it replaces the old Royal Plus. Platinum Hawk, Gold Sparrow, Silver Jay and Bronze Sunbird are now the new names of Royal Club membership tiers, giving them a more Jordanian identity. Royal Club offers members award miles earnings that can triple based on members' purchase behavior. Moreover, award miles will not expire as long as a member's account is active for 18 months continuously. Staying active has become very simple and can be achieved through various means: earning miles through flight activities with RJ or any of its oneworld partners, earning miles through everyday activities with any of RJ's numerous non-airline partners, redeeming miles for an award ticket, cabin upgrade, excess baggage, etc.), as well as buying, gifting, transferring and donating miles. It also offers a rewarding tier miles accrual scheme that allows members to qualify for higher membership tiers much easier. Top-tier members -- Platinum Hawk and Gold Sparrow -- are now entitled to exclusive privileges and benefits in recognition of their continued support and loyalty to RJ throughout the years. Depending on the membership tier, some added benefits include complimentary upgrades on RJ flights, guaranteed economy seats on fully booked flights and nominating a gold-tier partner (every Platinum Hawk member can nominate a gold partner). Other compelling benefits of Royal Club are: lounge access and excess baggage allowance, in addition to priority in check-ins, upgrades, waitlists, boarding and baggage handling. Through Royal Club, Royal Jordanian also enhances the members online experience and services as now, members can purchase, transfer, gift and donate miles online. Members can now purchase miles either online or through RJ offices to top up their accounts with needed award miles to qualify for the award of their choice, or they can present them to another member as a gift by crediting the purchased miles to the chosen members account. Moreover, members can now transfer miles easily between any two accounts any time, whether online or offline, for a set transfer fee. Royal Club members can also use their miles to help the fight against cancer by donating their miles to King Hussein Cancer Foundation and Center. The new programme was launched during a ceremony held on October 2 at Zara Expo, Amman, in the presence of top-tier frequent flyers and loyal partners, including banks and retailers. President/CEO Stefan Pichler said We are pleased to reveal a robust loyalty program that is more rewarding and flexible than ever before. We guarantee that you will both enjoy and benefit from your membership in our Royal Club. Our objective is to further recognize and engage our existing members while, at the same time, drive loyalty, retention and acquisition of new members. Inspired by the birds that soar in the skies freely, we have chosen hawk, sparrow, jay and sunbird as the stars of our new program. Like RJ, they travel around the world and they are in fact, Jordanian.Today, we have more than 430,000 members and the number is increasingly growing, particularly with the new, appealing, Royal Club program. On this occasion, I would like to extend my gratitude for the confidence our loyal customers have shown us. In return, we will indulge them with great rewards. Thanks also go to our non-airline partners who have made it easier and faster for Royal Club members to earn points and obtain the award of their choice on board our flights, Pichler said. On 3 October, BAE Systems proclaimed: We have unveiled Black Night a working example of our vision for the proposed upgrade of the British Armys Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank. The company is leading a major strategic partnership of world-leading defence firms Team Challenger 2 to bid for the tanks Life Extension Project (LEP). Challenger 2 Mk.2 "Black Night" at DVD 2018 (Picture source: Army Recognition) The Challenger has been in service since 1998 and was first involved in actual combat during the invasion of Iraq in 2003. The British army plans to extend its service until 2035, hence the LEP (Life Extension Programme). It is currently in service with the Queens Royal Hussars, the Kings Royal Hussars and the Royal Tank Regiment. BAE Systems and Rheinmetall won 23million preliminary contracts in December 2016 for a development phase of the bidding in which both companies were ordered to come up with designs. Both contractors would bid for the Demonstration, Manufacture and In-Service contract phases to provide the finished vehicles. Rheinmetall said it is 'working on a proposal for enhancing the combat effectiveness' of the vehicle, a key aspect of its offer being to involve UK-based suppliers. On its side, BAE said the tank would be delivered in the UK, at an assembly and testing facility in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales. The upgraded tank dubbed Black Night due to its enhanced night-fighting ability would bring for the first time to Challenger 2 two independent night vision systems, allowing the gunner to focus on one target while the commander identifies other targets simultaneously. This is just one of a host of other proposed upgrades including laser and missile-based protection systems, thermal imaging technology and regenerative power sourcing. As the Army Recognition team was explained at DVD 2018, the tank was created at BAE Systems combat vehicles hub in the West Midlands. The Black Night comprises the following cutting-edge technologies and capabilities, which are being offered by BAE Systems to the Ministry of Defence as part of Challenger 2s LEP: - Active Protection System: systems allow the tank to detect incoming anti-tank missiles or armour penetrating rounds and automatically launches a counter-explosive to neutralise the threat. - Laser Warning System: when targeted by enemy weapon systems, the tank can identify the source of the threat then automatically slew the gun to point at that source, making it quicker for the crew to counter-fire. - Regenerative braking: the tank has been made more energy efficient by using less energy-hungry kit and installing regenerative braking in the turret, which generates power when the gun slows down into position. - Thermal Imaging Technology: front and rear infrared cameras (similar to those used in television programmes such as Planet Earth II) provide extremely sharp night imagery, helping troops identify potential threats and move undetected in hostile situations, while also shaving valuable seconds off reaction times. - Accelerated fightability: new equipment controlling tanks weaponry is faster, meaning the crew can identify an enemy, target and engage more quickly. Closeup on some of the "Black Night" hi-tech improvements (Picture source: BAE Systems) Simon Jackson, Campaign leader for Team Challenger 2 at BAE Systems, said: The UK is home to some of the worlds finest engineering companies, who have pushed the boundaries of combat vehicle design with Black Night. We are providing the bulk of this upgrade from home soil, however, we have chosen the best defence companies from around the world to collaborate with also, including names from Canada, France and Germany who bring unique skills and proven technology. The British Army has our commitment that we will deliver the most capable upgrade possible, and the best value for money. Do it yourself if you can We accept in principle that private equity can deliver (somewhat) excess returns over most other asset classes. But there are a lot of qualifications attached to that, and most of them are very relevant to whether and how pension funds should invest in private equity. Four local governments are joining the town of Palisade to contribute over 1,500 total acre feet of unused, uncommitted water from Ruedi Reservoir, shown here in a file photo. The water will aid agricultural and environmental needs on the lower Roaring Fork and Colorado rivers. The five pillars of the firms RAP are to advocate and lead reconciliation in the legal profession, continue the firms pro bono commitment, create employment opportunities in the firm and its communities, invest in commercial relationships, and build cultural capacity in the firm and its communities. Richard Spurio, Allens managing partner, said that he is proud to launch the firms fifth RAP. The RAP seeks to identify the areas in which our firm, as a leader in the legal profession, can make the most meaningful contribution towards building reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, he said. For us, that contribution comes through in a number of areas such as our pro bono work, our internship program and our collaboration with other community groups to strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and build inclusivity and diversity. Ian McGill, national RAP partner, said that the firm believes that its practical legal support for constitutional recognition is a powerful way that the firm can contribute towards achieving lasting reconciliation and closing the gap. She is currently a director of ASX-listed Perpetual Equity Investment, FIIG Securities, Uniting Financial Services, Foodbank NSW & ACT, and Bell Asset Management. The appointment comes as Wendy McCarthy AO is retiring from the board after the companys AGM on 21 November. She will also step down from her roles as chair of the corporate governance and nomination committees, and member of the audit and risk and remuneration committees. On behalf of the board, I express our sincere thanks to Wendy for her significant contribution to IMF Benthams development and transformation over the past five years. It has been a pleasure working with Wendy and we wish her well in life after IMF Bentham, Kay said. IMF Benthams board has also appointed Stuart Mitchell as chief financial officer. He succeeds Julia Yetsenga, who has decided to transition to the role of global fund financial manager to support the transition of the firms business model to a funds-management structure. Mitchell is a qualified lawyer, chartered accountant, and chartered company secretary with more than 20 years of commercial experience in the Australian financial services sector. Moving from the CFO position he held at Ironbridge Capital since 2004, he will commence in his new role on 12 November. He managed the structuring, implementation and monitoring of investments and divestments of Ironbridge in Australia and New Zealand, IMF Bentham said. Withers has given its Asian presence a major boost by adding partners in the region. Two new teams have been added by the international law firm, led by six partners who specialise in real estate and investment funds. The teams added to Hong Kong and Tokyo bring decades of experience assisting clients with structuring Japanese and cross-border investments in the Asia-Pacific region, the firm said. The investment management team, which includes partners Koji Yamamoto and Yoshiyuki Omori, will be based in the Tokyo office. Yamamoto is an expert in investment funds and investment management, while Omori specialises in Japanese securities regulations. Both partners will join Withers from Deloitte with counsel Rie Nitta and paralegals Hirokazu Miyamoto and Noriko Narahara. In the off chance you are unable to make it there, the gallery above shows the 1,500 horsepower wonder in all its glory, on the ground at Porte de Versailles.The car that was made for cornering, as Bugatti described it when it launched the Divo, brags more with the lateral acceleration performances than with the W16 engine that powers it.Being 35 kg (77 lbs) lighter and providing 90 kg (198 lbs) more downforce than the Chiron, the Divo is capable of supporting lateral acceleration of 1.6 g, a big number for a road-worthy car, and allowing it to hug the road like no other while cornering at high speeds.But thats not the only thing that makes it better than the Chiron. With a maximum speed of 380 kph (236 mph), the supercar managed to complete the Nardo handling circuit in Italy 8 seconds faster than it older sibling.This was also possible thanks to tampering with the aerodynamics and an upgrade made to the suspension and chassis settings.To date, a modern Bugatti has represented a perfect balance between high performance, straight-line dynamics and luxurious comfort, said in a statement at the time of the cars launch Bugattis president Stephan Winkelmann.Within our possibilities, we have shifted the balance in the case of the Divo further towards lateral acceleration, agility and cornering.Dont expect to see many Divos on the streets in the future. Bugatti will build only 40 units of it, and the price they are asking for one is mind-boggling: 5 million Euros ($5,7 million at todays exchange rates). So what has caused all of this? It all started when the US said it will impose sanctions on Iran, which accounts for around 3 percent of global oil production. While it sounds like a small amount, it's enough to affect the world's global supply, hence, the increase in price. Iran stands to lose 1.5 million barrels per day when the sanctions are imposed by November. Right now, oil stands at about $83 per barrel, according to Brent Group. Dubai crude oil on the other hand, which is based on Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS), is hovering at $77-$78 per barrel. Feeling the fuel price hike pinch? It might just become worse, at least according to Stephen Brennock, oil analyst at PVM Oil Associates. At the rate things are going, oil prices per barrel might even shoot up to over $100 per barrel. The US is tapping into its oil reserves but Brennock says it will not be enough to offset the loss of Iran in the oil market trade. Saudi Arabia, along with other OPEC (Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries) nations are also set to produce more oil. But despite all that, it will still not be enough to curb supply deficiencies. Compounding the issue is the fact that oil from the US and OPEC nations are bought using the US Dollar. With Southeast Asian currencies weak at the moment, it is expected for fuel prices to go up in the next couple of months, more so when Iran gets the full brunt of the sanctions. There might be some relief for local motorists should crude oil prices based on the Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) (averaged by three months) reaches or exceeds $80 per barrel. In Section 43 of RA10963, also known as the TRAIN Law, the additional tax on fuel will be suspended. In the provision, it states, "For the period covering 2018 to 2020, the scheduled increase in the excise tax on fuel as imposed in this Section shall be suspended when the average Dubai crude oil price based on Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) for three (3) months prior to the scheduled increase of the month reaches or exceeds Eighty dollars (USD 80) per barrel". Source: CNBC Calacat was on his way to assist a parked car near the corner of Tomas Morato and Scout Fuentebella when he was suddenly struck by an oncoming vehicle traveling at high speed, a BMW X5. Calacat was allegedly dragged 30 meters before coming to a stop on the intersection between Scout Fernandez and Tomas Morato. Around 12:30 AM today, Celso Calacat, a parking attendant who was working along Tomas Morato Avenue, was killed by an alleged drunk driver who was passing through the thoroughfare at great speed. The soft implementation of the Anti-Drunk Driving Law has once again resulted in the death of an individual. According to bystanders, the driver of the BMW fled the scene with his vehicle. He was later intercepted by law enforcers two blocks away. According to eyewitnesses, Go apparently did not show remorse and tried to flee the scene by driving away. He was also allegedly overheard shouting "makapangyarihan ako, makakalaya din ako" (I'm a powerful government official and I will get out this mess). Calacat sustained serious injuries on his head and torso. Doctors who happened to be within the vicinity tried to revive the 50-year old via CPR. Calacat was eventually brought to Capitol Medical Center where he was pronounced dead on arrival at 1:00 AM. According to P03 Joel Avizo of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) Traffic Sector 4, the driver of the BMW who allegedly struck Calacat, was identified as Ed Christopher Siquian Go. "He was suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol upon apprehension. We decided to bring the suspect to Jose R. Reyes Hospital for Alcoholic Test, of which he tested positive," said Avizo. Apart from the initial hit-and-run, Go will be charged with reckless imprudence resulting in homicide. In addition, P03 Avizo also stated that Go will be liable for violating the Anti-Drunk Driving Law. Under RA 10586, Go will have to pay a hefty fine that will range from Php 300,000 to Php 500,000, and a penalty under Article 249 of the Revised Penal Code. For now, the police have yet to officially file a case against Go. The vehicle is currently impounded at QCPD Traffic Sector 4 pending investigation and filing of cases. This recent incident once again showed the government's lax implementation of RA 10586, aka the Anti-Drunk Driving Law. Despite having stricter penalties, as well as the procurement of necessary equipment like the breath alcohol analyzers, the MMDA and LTO has yet to fully implement the Anti-Drunk Driving Law which could have prevented this and other similar incidents. Earlier this year, Vietnamese automaker VinFast released a teaser photo of their two upcoming models a sedan and an SUV. However, no details were revealed except for their designs, which were actually chosen by the Vietnamese people. More so, we would have to wait until the brand officially makes its global debut at the 2018 Paris Motor Show for more details. Officially called LUX A2.0 Sedan and LUX SA2.0 SUV, the two vehicles take on more modern design cues and breaks away with the traditional styling. That said, the cars do look more like something that would come from Italy especially with their long hood and short trunk design. That's mainly because the cars were designed by Italdesign and was further developed by Pininfarina later on. Taking a closer look, both the SUV and the Sedan adapt a uniform design language. Both vehicles are fitted with a slim pair of LED daytime running lights which run the length of the front fascia and forms a V-shaped design on the large black grill. There are also large side air intakes which are integrated with the LED headlights. At the rear, both the sedan and SUV also take similar styling cues with LED taillights which also shows more V-shapes. Both cars are powered by a 2.0-liter inline four engine and is available in tow different power levels: 174 HP and 300 Nm torque or 227 HP and 350 Nm of torque. It is then mated to a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission sending power to the rear wheels for both the sedan and SUV. All-wheel-drive is an option on the SUV though thanks to a BorgWarner transfer case. The sedan is capable of doing 0-100km/h in just 8.9 seconds with the 174 HP, but drops to 7.1 with the 227 HP. Aside from the two launch models, VinFast plans to release a full range of vehicles including a small city car built in partnership GM, a pure electric vehicle and even a fully electric city bus. Both the city car and the pure EV are set to debut in 2019 and will be built in Hanoi as well. Meanwhile, the electric city bus are set to help the public transport system in Vietnam. Located in Kawit, Cavite, the 260-sqm showroom features eight service bays and is capable of accommodating vehicle sales, parts, and service requirements for its customers. The showroom is operated under the helm of Best Southern Genesis Motors, Inc. (BGSMI), one of the major automotive dealer groups in Southern Tagalog Region. An all-new Fuso dealership is now open for business. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC), the official distributor of Fuso trucks in the country, recently inagurated its latest showroom in the Philippines. Present during the inauguration of Fuso's second dealership in the country were key personnel from MMPC, as well as from Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC). These included Sojitz Corporation Assistant General Manager for Automotive Department 3 Takatsugu Nitanai, MMPC president and CEO Mutushiro Oshikiri, Daimler Regional Center for SEA Vice President of Fuso Sales and Customer Services Antonio Randazzo, Best Southern Genesis Motors Inc. president Clyde Chua and Sojitz Corporation General Manager for Automotive Department 3 Hideo Hatada. Also shown during the dealership opening are the all-new FI and FJ models. First shown during the 6th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), the two heavy movers have become prime choices for commercial vehicle businesses today. The FI is powered by a 3.9-liter 4D37 turbo-diesel that pushes out 172 PS and 520 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the FJ gets a more powerful 6.4-liter 6S20 turbo-diesel that cranks out 282 PS and 1,100 Nm of torque. Fuso's newest dealership in Kawit, Cavite is located along Centennial Road and is open from 8:00 AM 6:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. Quonset departure: Noah Forden A vintage Boeing 747 that was repurposed to resemble Air Force One has left the Rhode Island airport where it had been for several years, and traveled on a barge up the Potomac River to National Harbor, Maryland, in the Washington, D.C., area. The airplane is a retired cargo plane and no longer flies. The exterior has been painted in Air Force One regalia, and the interior has been reconstructed to resemble the presidential airplane. The owner of the aircraft, the Air Force One Experience, offers public tours. The airplane arrived at Quonset State Airport in Rhode Island several years ago, still bearing Evergreen livery. The exhibit opened to the public last year. In Maryland, it will remain dockside on the barge, where it will be open for tours starting Oct. 18. The 747 is expected to stay in Maryland until at least early next year. According to the project website, it will then move to New York City. This video of the 747 passing under the Harry Nice Bridge on the Potomac River was shot by Brendan Moon. When famine strikes, relief agencies are typically hamstrung from providing meaningful help until the suffering attracts big cable news coverage, which then sparks sufficient donations from wealthy countries. What's new: Leading U.S. tech companies say they have invented a system that uses artificial intelligence to forecast famine, allowing for proactive interventions before crisis strikes. This early-warning tool could prevent widespread suffering while helping developing countries prepare for a new economy in which automation has swept away low-skilled jobs. The details: Developed by Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, the system is meant to identify signs of an impending food shortage by monitoring environmental factors like natural disasters and droughts, plus agricultural data and violent conflict. Its called the "Famine Action Mechanism," because its forecasts are tied to donation and intervention plans that are set in motion when algorithms sound the alarm. The companies are working with the World Bank, the UN, and the International Committee of the Red Cross to test the system in South Sudan, Niger, Mali, Chad, and Somalia. "This could actually end famines," World Bank President Jim Kim told reporters today at Stanford University. The World Bank says that 124 million people currently require food aid to survive. Why it matters: Early action can stave off the lasting effects of famine, which beyond causing sickness and death can stunt a child's growth and disadvantage them for life. These disadvantages will become more pronounced in the new automation-driven economy. As robots take over repetitive manual labor, workers will need to rely on cognitive skills like problem-solving and adapt quickly to new opportunities. Adults who were malnourished as children will "probably be unable to adjust to these changes," Kim said. For the 2019 World Development Report, which will be released next week, the World Bank has developed a new index measuring "human capital" that is, peoples potential to contribute to the economy that it says should guide developing countries through automation-driven upheaval. The index combines education data with mortality and childhood stunting rates to measure how economically productive a child born this year would be by the time she turns 18, all factors remaining constant. The differences in productivity between countries are stark, according to the report: In countries with the lowest human capital investments today, our analysis suggests that the workforce of the future will only be one-third to one-half as productive as it could be if people enjoyed full health and received a high-quality education. Final draft of the 2019 World Development Report "We are at a very dangerous time," said Kim. "You've got to accelerate your investments in human beings, and try to use technology to make that quicker." After years of preaching self-regulation, the world's biggest advertising companies are suddenly getting behind the idea of national regulation on privacy. Why it matters: The ad industry realizes it can't avoid regulation forever especially in light of increased data breaches and scandals over the past year so its best bet is to support federal rules now rather than face dozens of different state regulations down the line. The latest: Four of the biggest advertising trade bodies (ANA, IAB, ARF and CIMM) introduced a "Data Transparency Label" Monday at Advertising Week NYC, which is like a nutrition label for audience data that discloses the sources of data and segmentation. Eventually, the thought is that these labels will be housed in participating platforms, such as Google or Facebook, so that when a marketer goes to purchase an audience segment, they can see the data label alongside it. Perhaps the biggest signal that the ad industry taking privacy regulation seriously comes from the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), which for the first time ever last week said it supported "sensible" national privacy legislation to avoid state-by-state solutions. In response to a new proposed privacy bill from the state of New Jersey, IAB said Monday: "The panoply of disparate, overlapping, and often contradictory state privacy laws is increasingly making operating in the online space, including the digital advertising industry, complicated at best and untenable at worst." Ad giants including Google, Apple and AT&T told lawmakers at a hearing last week that they generally support federal policy rules while pushing back on state-led efforts. Yes, but: These companies are wary of some of the biggest policy proposals backed by privacy advocates, per Axios' David McCabe, including: Mandatory opt-in: Obtaining affirmative "opt-in" consent to collect user data. Obtaining affirmative "opt-in" consent to collect user data. Allowing the FTC to set rules: Currently, it can only enforce Congressional law rather than create rules of its own. Meanwhile, their ad businesses continue to become even more reliant on data-based targeting. There have been calls for a national privacy framework in the U.S. to mimic the one implemented this year in Europe the General Data Protection Rule (GDPR). Case-in-point: Facebook's latest data breach impacting 50 million users could cost the company upwards of $1.63 billion, per WSJ, under the highest possible GDPR penalty in Europe. Facebook's latest data breach impacting 50 million users could cost the company upwards of $1.63 billion, per WSJ, under the highest possible GDPR penalty in Europe. But while FTC commissioners are expressing concern over the breach, it's unclear how seriously they plan to probe or penalize the tech giant. A Facebook spokesperson says they haven't been contacted about an investigation yet. commissioners are expressing concern over the breach, it's unclear how seriously they plan to probe or penalize the tech giant. A Facebook spokesperson says they haven't been contacted about an investigation yet. The FTC hasn't concluded its investigation into Facebook's Cambridge Analytica scandal in March, nor has it levied any fines. its investigation into Facebook's Cambridge Analytica scandal in March, nor has it levied any fines. Until data is misused, Facebook's breach will be forgotten, TechCrunch's Josh Constine predicts. Sound smart: Even though ad giants believe that supporting a national framework will stave off state approaches, federal regulation is still unlikely. "We're skeptical of passage given the complexity of issue and potential House-Senate split in 2019-20. We see only a 35% chance of Congress passing privacy legislation in the next two years." Paul Gallant, Regulatory Analyst at Cowen Early parliamentary elections in Armenia must be held in December, rather than in May, as has been proposed by the parliamentary majority, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian insisted on Wednesday. Those who say the elections must be held in May, not now, want this political crisis to continue for another eight months We disagree with that logic. Those who are guided by that logic place their parochial interests above state interests, Pashinian told reporters. There is a political crisis in country and I cant understand people telling us not to resolve that crisis. We are going to resolve that crisis, he said. Accordingly, Pashinian made clear that he will press ahead with his plans to resign later this month and thus pave the way for snap elections. We will move forward according to our plan and I think its obvious that the demand for pre-term parliamentary elections is a popular demand and I find it hard to imagine a person or persons who are going to resist that, he said. The Armenian constitution stipulates that the National Assembly must be dissolved if it fails to replace a prime minister within two weeks. Pashinian claimed to have received on Tuesday night assurances from the Republican (HHK) and Prosperous Armenia (BHK) parties that they will not install another premier in case of his tactical resignation. The HHK and the BHK, which control the two largest parliamentary factions, denied that. They said they proposed instead that the snap elections be held in May 2019. In a statement released on Wednesday, the HHK reiterated that political forces need more time to prepare for the elections and enact anti-fraud amendments to the Armenian Electoral Code. It argued that the Pashinian governments policy program says the vote should held by June 2019 under an amended code. A member of the Council of Europes Parliamentary Assembly (PACE) monitoring political developments in Armenia made a similar point. While we understand the call for early elections, we urge the authorities, and indeed all political stakeholders, to ensure that any early elections fully respect European standards and norms for democratic elections, and that all political forces have proper and sufficient time to prepare themselves for any such elections, said Yuliya Lovochkina, a PACE rapporteur on Armenia. This is especially important if the Electoral Code will indeed be changed, as some political stakeholders have called for, she added in a statement. Lovochkina noted that less than half of eligible voters took part in the September 23 municipal elections in Yerevan which Pashinians My Step bloc won by a landslide. The turnout made it clear that public trust in the political process is still low, she said. Therefore it is essential that the next parliamentary elections are perceived and accepted as democratic and fair by all political competitors and stakeholders. My Step won over 80 percent of the vote in the Armenian capital. Citing this strong performance, Pashinian has said that he has a strong mandate to push for the holding of parliamentary elections as soon as possible. The 43-year-old premier, who swept to power in May in a wave of mass protests, controls only a handful of seats in the current National Assembly. By Sara Israfilbayova The EU will support strengthening competitiveness of the horticulture sector in Azerbaijans Lankaran region, reads the agreement on financing the program of activities on Azerbaijan for 2017. Azerbaijans Economy Ministry said in a message that the agreement was signed as part of the meeting between Azerbaijans Economy minister Shahin Mustafayev and Head of the EU Delegation to Azerbaijan Kestutis Jankauskas. The signed agreement envisages strengthening competitiveness of the horticulture sector in Azerbaijans Lankaran Economic Region, as well as further improving the business environment and investments. At the meeting, the minister noted special importance of mutual visits and high-level meetings in expanding relations between Azerbaijan and the EU. Jankauskas noted the mutual interest in expanding ties. He noted effective cooperation in the energy sector between Azerbaijan and the EU, as well as the countrys broad export opportunities. The EU is one of the main foreign trade partners of Azerbaijan. The share of the EU member states in Azerbaijans foreign trade in 2017 was 42 percent, and in the first eight months of 2018 - 43.5 percent. There are more than 1,500 companies of EU member states operating in Azerbaijan. Over the past six years, EU member countries have invested about $16 billion in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan is currently part of the European Neighborhood Policy, Eastern Partnership and the Council of Europe, and is a large recipient of aid and infrastructure investment from the EU. Formal relations with the EU began in 1996 when the EU-Azerbaijan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) were signed. This agreement entered into force in 1999.This agreement marked the beginning of a mainly positive relationship between Azerbaijan and the EU, with both sides benefitting from the relationship. In February 2017 the EU and Azerbaijan launched negotiations on a new agreement that will replace the old one. The EU is Azerbaijans biggest export and import market. The EUs exports to Azerbaijan consist primarily of machinery and transport equipment whereas EU imports from Azerbaijan cover mainly oil and gas (98 percent of total imports). --- Sara Israfilbayova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Sara_999Is Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Laman Ismayilova A House-Museum of the legendary Azerbaijani composer Gara Garayev has solemnly opened in Baku. The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ali Akhmedov, Head of the Humanitarian Policy Department of the Presidential Administration Farah Aliyev, Azerbaijan Minister of Culture Abulfaz Garayev, prominent public figures, representatives of science, literature, culture, art, relatives and friends of the eminent composer. Addressing the event, the Azerbaijan Minister of Culture Abulfaz Garayev stressed that in accordance with the decree of President Ilham Aliyev on holding the 100th anniversary of the outstanding Azerbaijani composer Gara Garayev, various jubilee events are held both in the country and abroad. The minister stressed that the International Day of Music is celebrated in the world today, in connection with which many countries hold various events. It was noted that the parents of Gara Garayev lived in this house, an outstanding composer spent his childhood and youth here. He composed his first works in this very house. The chairman of the Azerbaijan Union of Composers Firangiz Alizade and the chairman of the Azerbaijan Union of Writers Anar Rzayev emphasized that the works of the composer are included in the treasury of world culture. Then the guests got acquainted with the exposition of the House-Museum of Gara Garayev. The excursion was conducted by the daughter of the great Azerbaijani composer Zuleikha Garayeva-Bagirova. The museum's collection includes personal belongings, posters, programs, photographs, books and other exhibits dedicated or belonging to Gara Garayev. The House-Museum of Gara Garayev operates as part of the State Museum of Musical Culture. At the event, a well-known composer, teacher Faraj Garayev was presented with a certificate of the Peoples Artist of Azerbaijan and a badge. It should be noted that in accordance with the relevant decree of the President lham Aliyev, Faraj Garayev was awarded the honorary title "People's Artist" for his contribution to the development of the Azerbaijani culture. The certificate of the Peoples Artist of Azerbaijan and the badge to Faraj Garayeva presented the head of the humanitarian policy department of the Presidential Administration of Azerbaijan Farah Aliyeva. Having synthesized Eastern and Western musical traditions, Garayev's works cover essentially all genres. The works by the legend are performed all over the world. He knew Azerbaijani folk music very well and loved to sing. In 1938, Garayev composed his first musical piece, a cantata "The Song of the Heart" to the poem by Rasul Rza. It was performed in Moscow's Bolshoi Theater in the same year. He was only 20 years old at the time. Garayev returned to Baku in 1941. He began teaching students at Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Society. In 1952, under the direction of the choreographer P. A. Gusev, Garayev's "Seven Beauties" ballet was staged at the Azerbaijani Theater of Opera and Ballet. Based on Nizami Ganjavi's famous poem, "Seven Beauties", it became the first Azerbaijani ballet and opened a new chapter in the history of classical music of Azerbaijan. His ballet, "Path of Thunder", staged in 1958, was dedicated to racial conflicts in South Africa. In the same year, he wrote the score for the documentary film" A Story About the Oil Workers of the Caspian Sea", directed by Roman Karmen and set at the Oil Rocks. Through his life, Garayev wrote nearly 110 musical pieces, including ballets, operas, symphonic and chamber pieces, solos for piano, cantatas, songs and marches, and rose to prominence not only in Azerbaijan, but also worldwide. He brilliantly juxtaposed features of Mugham with jazz, blues, African music, European counterpoint styles, and developments related to the 20th century Western music such as the 12-tone technique. Garayev died on May 13, 1982 in Moscow at the age of 64. The composer leaved behind a legacy of music that will be felt for generations to come. The memory of great composer will always live in the hearts of Azerbaijani people. --- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Naila Huseynli The project of children's music festival "Simurg" is being implemented with the support of the Baku Media Center. The Media Center informs that the main purpose of the festival is to promote and support young Azerbaijani talented musicians, as well as to teach them professional knowledge and skills in performing arts. The author and head of the project is a well-known pianist, laureate of prestigious international competitions Saida Tagizadeh. In the future it is planned to cover all musical instruments of the festival. So far, only pianists between the ages of 7-18 participate in the project. At the current stage of the festival, 10 participants were selected. Participants will participate in master classes of prominent educators from Azerbaijan, Russia and other countries within the framework of the project. In addition, the training will be held for young performers regarding the proper and professional behavior on the stage. The young talents have already participated in master classes of Mira Marchenko, the head of the special piano department of the Central Music School at Moscow Conservatory named after the P. Tchaikovsky, and fulfilled her assignments. The solo concert of famous Russian pianist Daniil Sayamov will be held at the International Mugam Center within the framework of Simurg music festival on October 19. Master classes of other prominent educators and musicians will be organized gradually for participants of festival. More information about the project is available on the official website of the festival www.simurqfestival.com, on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube social networks. By Laman Ismayilova A unique museum - "History and State of Azerbaijan" has been solemnly opened in Uzbekistan. The museum's opening ceremony is dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic and the 27th anniversary of restoration of Azerbaijan's stateindependence. Heads of Uzbekistan's leading museums, officials of Uzbekistan-Azerbaijan Friendship Society, students from high schools in Tashkent, local Azerbaijanis and journalists attended the event. At the foyer of the Cultural Center, the photo exhibition "Our Republic 100 years old" was presented to the participants. Director of the Heydar Aliyev Center for Azerbaijani Culture Samir Abbasov, who spoke at the opening ceremony, said that the Azerbaijani people, one of the oldest nations in the world, is proud of its ancient history, cultural and cultural heritage, rich traditions. Samir Abbasov said that the main goal of the museum is to convey and promote the ancient history and rich culture of our people to the people of Uzbekistan. He stressed that the Azerbaijani people have preserved their material and spiritual heritage and national values over the centuries. Director of the State Historical Museum of the National Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan, Professor Jannat Ismayilova called the opening of the museum a historic event and noted that the museum is a perfect source of information for anyone who wants to learn about Azerbaijan, its statehood, history and traditions. She said that the Azerbaijan Museum of History, which is enriched with new exhibits, compositions, has been built on a great deal of work for many years and that the project of the Azerbaijani Cultural Center has been successfully completed. Executive Director of Uzbekistan-Azerbaijan Friendship Society, Professor Erkin Nuriddinov, chief economist of Uzbek Women's Committee, scientist, political scientist Jamila Shermukhamedova spoke about the friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, which is a great pagan state of the statehood. Then a memorandum of cooperation was signed between the State Historical Museum of of Uzbekistan and the Azerbaijan Cultural Center named after Heydar Aliyev in Uzbekistan. The memorandum will cover the history of peoples, the promotion of national culture, as well as joint projects, events, exhibitions, and so on. A gala concert program was held after ribbon cutting ceremony. The museum exhibits, including models of ancient settlement of Gobustan, the Icheri Sheher monuments located in Baku, the Blue Mosque in Irevan city, as well as the models of historical monuments of Azerbaijan's Karabakh region were met with special interest. It should be noted that in the museum there are exhibits, tools, various exhibits and compositions, which are used everyday in the house "Traditional Azerbaijani villager". Participants were informed that in the museum, from the earliest times to the present time the Azerbaijani states - Manna, Media, the glorious page of the history of Azerbaijan - Safavid Empire, Azerbaijan Democratic Republic and independent Azerbaijan, as well as corners on the huge projects implemented by Azerbaijan after gaining independence national musical instruments, clothes, ancient and modern banknotes, as well as state symbols will be exhibited separately. Azerbaijan's achievements over the past few years are one of the world's largest projects, Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline, Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway project. The museum has a special section for them. The newly opened Museum of Azerbaijan History and Statehood is designed by the Azerbaijani Cultural Center, which will organize excursions for high school and high school students in Tashkent. --- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Laman Ismayilova A presentation of the electronic portal of the the State Register of Azerbaijan Intangible Cultural Heritage. (www.intangible.az) was held at the Museum Center of the Ministry of Culture on October 3. Minister of Culture and Tourism Abulfaz Garayev said at the event that the creation of the portal was the result of the Azerbaijani government's efforts to implement the provisions of the UNESCO Convention on the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. Noting the great role of Azerbaijan's First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva in the formation of close relations between UNESCO and Azerbaijan, Minister noted that over 11 nominations of Azerbaijan were included in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural and Cultural Heritage. Speaking about the importance of the e-portal, the Minister said that its aim to calculate the necessary information base for the state registration of the non-material cultural samples of Azerbaijan and promote them further. It also aims to prevent the appropriation of non-material cultural samples by the Armenians. The e-portal includes information on the samples of intangible cultural heritage, their carriers and organizations, as well as national and international documents adopted in the field of culture, the latest innovations in the field of intangible heritage, examples of cultural heritage UNESCO list and much more. It also contains information on the intangible heritage of country's cities and regions. The Minister stressed the importance to enrich the portal with new information in time. He also noted that all search engines should have access to this e-portal. In his speech, Garayev underlined that e-portal should contain reliable information about country's intangible heritage. Along with the Ministry of Culture, numerous organizations, including the Institute of Folklore, National History Museum, the Institute of Archeology and Ethnography, Azerbaijan Ashugs Union, the Institute of Architecture and Art, Azerbaijan State Information Agency, Azerbaijan National Art Museum, Azerbaijan State Museum of Musical Culture, National Culinary Center, State Film Fund, National Library of Azerbaijan and others work on the preparation of the e-portal. Yashar Huseynli, director of cooperation with international organizations and programs sector of the Ministry of Culture gave information about the e-portal. Speaking at the event, Chairman of Azerbaijan Ashugs Association, Professor Maharram Gasimli and Director General of the National Center for Culinary Tahir Amiraslanov noted the significance of the portal in promoting the country's intangible cultural heritage samples. Then the e-portal was presented to the event participants. --- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Eleni Theocharous, Member of European Conservatives and Reformists Group, Member of the Bureau of the European Parliament, who encourages bloody separatism and ethnic cleansing, acts by the order of the Armenian Diaspora organizations, the Member of the Azerbaijani Parliament Aydin Huseynov told Trend October 3. He noted that Theocharous has repeatedly visited the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, as a result of which she has been included in Azerbaijan's "list of undesirable persons". The Azerbaijani MP also added that Theocharous has been brought to trial as an accused person under the relevant articles of the Criminal code for participating as an "observer" in the "referendum" of the separatist regime in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan on February 20, 2017. Huseynov said that on the basis of the court's decision, a preventive measure in the form of arrest has been chosen against her, and a request has been sent to Interpol to put Theocharous on the international wanted list. He noted that in 1990, under the pretext of "humanitarian mission", this Cypriot MP carried out surgical operations in the occupied Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, for which she was awarded the "medal" of the separatist regime. Huseynov added that by the order of Armenia and the Armenian Diaspora organizations, she clearly promotes in the international arena, especially in the framework of the European Parliament, the separatist regime established as a result of the military occupation of Azerbaijani lands. "During the last of many illegal visits of the member of the European Parliament to the occupied territories of Azerbaijan on September 27 of this year, she was accompanied by Kaspar Karampetyan, who operates in Europe for the legitimization of the Armenian occupation," he added. The Azerbaijani MP noted that despite the numerous visits of Theocharous to the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, she has posted on the official website of the European Parliament only a statement on participation the "referendum" of the separatist regime in February 2017. "This activity of Theocharous, who tried to present all her illegal visits under the guise of the fact that she in some way led the official delegation of the European Parliament, means abuse of membership in the European Parliament. She also has to explain herself to the European Parliament regarding her visits financed from abroad," the Azerbaijani MP said. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. ---- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has signed an order, providing funds for the construction of Arbatan-Marishli-Seyidsadiqli-Guychu road in Salyan region. Under the presidential order, the Azerbaijan Highway State Agency is allocated 4.2 million manats for the construction of the road connecting four residential areas with a total population of 11,000 people. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to Frank-Walter Steinmeier, president of the Federal Republic of Germany. On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I cordially congratulate you and the people of your country on the occasion of the German Unity Day of the Federal Republic of Germany, Ilham Aliyev said in his letter. We attach great importance to Azerbaijani-German relations. In this regard, the expansion of our relations in political, economic and humanitarian areas day by day is satisfactory. I believe that cooperation as well as joint activities of our countries in a multilateral format will successfully continue. On this remarkable day, I extend my best wishes to you, and wish the friendly people of Germany everlasting peace and prosperity, the Azerbaijani president said. Ilham Aliyev also congratulated Moon Jae-in, the president of South Korea. On behalf of the people of Azerbaijan and on my own behalf, I extend my sincerest congratulations to you and the people of your country on the occasion of the national holiday of the Republic of Korea, Ilham Aliyev said in his letter. I believe that the relations of friendship and cooperation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Korea will continue developing and expanding to the benefit of our nations. On this remarkable day, I wish you the best of health, success in your endeavors, and the friendly people of your country everlasting peace and prosperity. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Sara Israfilbayova Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR and the Chinese company BGP Inc, which is a subsidiary of the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), signed an agreement on the establishment of a joint venture. SOCAR reported that the document was signed by SOCAR President Rovnag Abdullayev and BGP President Gou Liang. The joint venture will carry out seismic exploration in Azerbaijan and the Caspian Sea. Presently, SOCAR, along with the modern technologies, also applies alternative methods for exploring new deposits and stabilizing production. The joint venture will bring in a new perspective and will become a good guarantee for a mutually beneficial exchange of experience between Azerbaijani and Chinese specialists, Abdullayev said. SOCAR and BGP Inc signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on June 6, with the aim of establishing a joint venture to establish cooperation with BGP Inc. BGP Inc. is in 100 percent ownership of CNPC. The main scope of the companys activities is exploration on land, in intermediate zones and at sea, including obtaining, processing and interpreting seismic data, manufacturing seismic equipment, and related services in information and communication technologies. SOCAR is a wholly state-owned national oil company headquartered in Baku, Azerbaijan. The company produces oil and natural gas from onshore and offshore fields in the Azerbaijani section of the Caspian Sea. The company includes three production associations, one oil refining and gas processing enterprise, an oil flotilla, a deep-water base plant, two trusts, one institute, and 23 structures. SOCAR established joint companies (including Georgia and Turkey), alliances, operating in various sectors of oil and gas spheres. It has representative offices in Georgia, the U.S., Turkey, Romania, Austria, Switzerland, Kazakhstan, Great Britain, Iran, Germany, Ukraine, Belgium and Canada. --- Sara Israfilbayova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Sara_999Is Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Hong Jae-eun, chief strategy officer of NongHyup Financial Group Financial group mobilizes NH Investment, NongHyup Bank for global expansion By Park Hyong-ki NongHyup Financial Group is looking to either acquire a firm or set up a joint venture to launch investment banking operations in Indonesia next year, said Hong Jae-eun, the chief strategy officer (CSO) of the agriculture financial holding company. He said the group is currently in talks with two potential companies in Indonesia, and it is seeking to acquire or establish a joint venture in investment banking with one of them. "We may reach a substantial deal next year," Hong said in an interview with The Korea Times at his office in Seoul. "The group wants to do more deals in Southeast Asia and China, following NongHyup Bank's recent acquisition of SAMIC for 10 billion won in Cambodia." SAMIC, a Cambodian microfinance institution with 10 branches, was renamed NongHyup Finance Cambodia early September. The acquisition of SAMIC in August 2018 marks the group's first overseas deal. The group will also likely set up a joint venture with China Co-op Group, part of All China Federation of Supply and Marketing Cooperatives, in China next year. "Entering China via a joint venture partnership with China Co-op is an ideal way for NongHyup, given the huge size of the Chinese market," Hong added. This is part of the group's 2022 roadmap for global expansion, said the executive, who is in charge of NongHyup Financial and its subsidiaries' global business strategy. NongHyup Financial seeks to generate 10 percent of its consolidated profit from its overseas ventures by 2022, he noted. "We have the plan envisioned by our Chairman Kim Gwang-soo, and so now it is time for action," Hong said. "NongHyup seeks to expand mostly in Southeast Asia where it can help boost agriculture financing, investment banking, retail banking and microfinance. Our main Southeast Asian base will be Vietnam." Vietnam's population is "young," with a vibrant agriculture industry, he explained, adding there are a lot of Korean companies seeking to enter the market there. NongHyup Financial's NongHyup Bank opened a branch in Hanoi in 2016, and is preparing to launch another one in Ho Chi Minh City. Under Vietnam's regulations, a foreign financial company can be incorporated there after opening two branches in two years. "After the bank's incorporation in Vietnam, we could then pursue acquisitions to boost our retail banking operations," the CSO said. It will further make inroads into other Southeast Asian markets where there are high agricultural populations and where they seek to modernize farming. With the group's "ammunition" worth 200 trillion won ($180 billion) available for expansion, he said it will mobilize NongHyup Bank and NH Investment & Securities to identify, acquire and invest in targets as part of efforts to boost its investment banking in Southeast Asia. NH Investment & Securities will be sourcing deals from its Hong Kong unit with financial backing from NongHyup Bank and the group. But Hong noted it would most likely use global networks of professional services or accounting firms for deal making during its initial stages of expansion in areas such as Indonesia and Cambodia. NongHyup Bank CEO Lee Dae-hoon, fourth from right, cuts the tape to launch NongHyup Finance Cambodia in Phnom Penh, Sept. 11, after acquiring SAMIC, a Cambodian microfinance institution, in August. Courtesy of NongHyup Bank By Sara Israfilbayova Revenues of the State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) from the project of development of the countrys Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli (ACG) block of oil and gas fields amounted to $135.887 billion from early 2001. SOFAZ reported that the company received $7.401 billion in the framework of the ACG project during January-September 2018. A contract for development of ACG block of oil and gas fields was signed in 1994 for 30 years. Thirteen companies from eight countries (Azerbaijan, the U.S., Great Britain, Russia, Turkey, Norway, Japan, Saudi Arabia) have participated in signing of the "Contract of the Century". Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR and BP-operated Azerbaijan International Operating Company (AIOC) signed an agreement on future development of the ACG field in December 2016. The agreement will cover the development of the field until 2050 and will add significant resource development potential. The document specifies the key commercial terms for the future development of the ACG field and enables the parties to conclude negotiations and finalize fully-termed agreements in the next few months. The ACG field, which lies 120km off the coast of Azerbaijan, is considered to be the largest oilfield in the Azerbaijan sector of the Caspian Sea. The proven oil reserves of the block amounts to approximately 1 billion tons. From the beginning of first oil production in November 1997 and until September 1, 2017, some 435.6 million tons of oil and 136.3 billion cubic meters of associated gas were produced in the ACG block of oil and gas fields in the Caspian Sea. Shareholders of the ACG development include BP with 35.8 percent, Chevron - 11.3 percent, Inpex - 11 percent, AzACG - 11.6 percent, Statoil - 8.55 percent, Exxon - 8 percent, TRAO- 6.75 percent, Itochu - 4.3 percent and ONGC - 2.7 percent. SOFAZ was established under the Presidential Decree, dated December 29, 1999, "On Establishment of the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan". The main purpose of the establishment of the Fund was to preserve and multiply the income derived from oil, create an excellent economic base, taking into account social needs, the requirements of economic progress and development of the country. Besides, the challenge ahead is to protect the country's economy from possible negative influences caused by the growth of foreign exchange earnings and avoidance of damage to financial discipline. --- Sara Israfilbayova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Sara_999Is Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Abdul Kerimkhanov The IAEA continues to verify Irans compliance with its nuclear obligations and carried out the necessary verification of all sites and facilities in Iran that required it. This was announced by the general director of the agency, Yukiya Amano, RIA Novosti reported on October 2. Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the UN that Israeli intelligence had discovered a secret warehouse in Tehran with tons of nuclear equipment and materials, and showed a satellite image and a photograph of the wall with an iron gate. Amano said that the IAEA continues to verify Irans compliance with its obligations under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the nuclear program. As I stated in my reports to the IAEA Board of Governors, assessments regarding the absence of undeclared nuclear materials and Irans activity continue. The Agency continues to evaluate Irans statements according to the ad-protocol, and provided additional access to all places and facilities in Iran that it needed to visit, said Amano, the press service of the IAEA reported. Since 1958, Iran has been a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Iran and the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council the U.S., the UK, France, China and Russia plus Germany signed the landmark nuclear deal on July 14, 2015 and on July 20, 2015, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution in support of this document. The agreement entered into force on January 16, 2016. The document limits Irans nuclear activities in exchange for, among other things, the removal of all nuclear-related bans against the Islamic Republic. In accordance with the agreements reached, Iran will undertake to have no more than 300 kg of uranium. The country also committed to keep uranium enrichment at 3.67 percent. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend A large number of citizens have gathered in front of the Armenian parliament in Yerevan to protest against amendments to the parliaments regulations that had been just adopted by the lawmakers, Armenian media reports Oct. 2. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan arrived in Baghramyan Avenue. Meanwhile, the bill suggests considering the parliament session postponed so that dissolution of the parliament could be avoided. Earlier in the day the Armenian parliament pushed through controversial bill on rules of procedure with 67 votes for and one vote against. Armenian PM called on the citizens to gather in Baghramyan Avenue and surround the building of the parliament. Pashinyan said that the adoption of the bill would mean "the official beginning of the counter-revolution." --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Jovan Jekic, an expert in international trade law, has been appointed advisor to the minister of foreign trade of Uzbekistan on accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO), Uzbek media reported. Uzbekistans accession to the WTO will make it possible to significantly expand the geography of exports, increase deliveries to foreign countries, Uzbek Minister of Foreign Trade Jamshid Khojayev said. As you know, this process is comprehensive, difficult, time-consuming and in this context the international expert will assist us in conducting a comprehensively weighted negotiation process for joining this organization in order to obtain the greatest benefits from participation in it. Jovan Jekic has over 35 years of experience in the field of international commercial law, protection of intellectual property, customs rules and procedures, legal regulation of trade and investment policy. In 2001-2017, he advised the governments of Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, as well as Serbia and Montenegro on the issues of WTO accession. He maintains constructive and working interaction with representatives of the WTO Secretariat in Geneva and negotiating teams of other members of the organization. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Kamila Aliyeva A meeting with representatives of ExxonMobil was held at Uzbekneftegaz JSC, Uzbek media outlets reported on October 2. In the course of the joint work, ExxonMobil proved to be a reliable partner of Uzbekneftegaz JSC. Following the official visit of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to the United States, during which an agreement on cooperation was signed, the partnership between ExxonMobil and Uzbekneftegaz received new impetus. In this regard, representatives of ExxonMobil were thanked for participating as a licensor of process equipment in the project Organization of production of base oils of groups II and III on the basis of Fergana Oil Refinery LLC, the press service of Uzbekneftegaz said. This project is being implemented in accordance with the roadmap for further development of interstate cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United States. The cost of the project is estimated at $150 million. The time frame of its implementation is 2018 - 2021 years. The U.S. companys experts noted that this is the only project of such kind in the region. ExxonMobil is ready to share experience and technology for the successful implementation of this promising project, General Manager for Refining Technologies and Gas Purification, Catalysts and Licensing, Vice President Sean Smith said. The specialists of the foreign company received extensive information on the latest reforms in the business climate of the country, in particular, the adoption by the President of Uzbekistan of a resolution providing for a new procedure for approving pre-project, project and tender documentation, as well as import contracts. During the talks, the parties discussed further actions and measures to accelerate the project, in particular signing of license and engineering agreements, the possibility of optimizing prices taking into account the updated configuration of the production process, as well as the possibility of obtaining additional base oils from the residual fraction. ExxonMobil is the largest publicly traded international oil and gas company which uses technology and innovation to help meet the worlds growing energy needs. The company holds an industry-leading inventory of resources and is one of the worlds largest integrated refiners, marketers of petroleum products and chemical manufacturers. --- Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Kamila Aliyeva Kazakhstan and Russia plan to sign a protocol of changes to the bilateral agreement on fuel supplies, which will allow Astana to start exporting light oil products, Kazakh Energy Minister Kanat Bozumbayev said within the framework of the oil forum. In the course of the Russian Energy Week forum, a protocol on amending the agreement on cooperation in the fuel and energy complex will be signed on October 3 in Moscow, according to Bozumbayev. A source in the government of Kazakhstan told Reuters that the parties should exclude clauses banning the export of light oil products from Kazakhstan, but at the same time Astana could lose preferential deliveries of oil products from Russia on an indicative balance. The parties must withdraw from the bilateral agreement annexes 2 and 3, which refers to exports, then, after ratification, it will be possible to export gasoline (from Kazakhstan), said the source. The ban on the export of light petroleum products from Kazakhstan was introduced under the current intergovernmental agreement with Russia, which in turn exports about 2 million tons of fuel annually to its partner within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Kazakhstan, as a result of modernization of oil refineries, has increased the production of gasoline, which exceeds the needs of the republic and creates a surplus of fuel. The indicative balance of gas deliveries this year for gasoline will be reduced, and next year should strive for zero for light oil products, said the source. In 2018, Russia undertook to deliver up to 1.705 million tons of petroleum products without paying duties against 2.155 million tons in 2017. --- Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend The US is openly supporting terrorists in Syria, Turkish Parliament Speaker Binali Yildirim said, Turkish media reported Oct. 3. He noted that Washington claims to be an ally of Turkey, but in fact the US acts quite differently. The US claims that they support the PYD/YPG militants in order to fight the Islamic State (IS) terrorists, however, cooperation with one terrorist group in order to combat the other is unacceptable, said Yildirim. He noted that the military conflicts in the region have a negative impact on Turkey, and stressed that the wars in neighboring Syria and Iraq led to the fact that over 3.5 million refugees fled to Turkey. Earlier, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that the US did not keep their promises regarding the withdrawal of the PYD/YPG terrorists from the Syrian Manbij. "According to the agreements reached by Turkey and the US, the detachments of the PYD/YPG fighters were to leave the Syrian city of Manbij in 90 days, but it did not happen," Erdogan added. On June 4, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo discussed a road map on Manbij during talks in Washington. Also, Pompeo and Cavusoglu met in Brussels and discussed the Operation Olive Branch, as well as other issues. On Jan. 20, the Turkish Armed Forces, together with the Free Syrian Army, launched the Operation Olive Branch in Afrin, Syria. On Aug. 24, 2016, units of the Turkish Armed Forces began the Operation Euphrates Shield against the "Islamic State" and with the support of the Syrian opposition liberated the border town of Jarablus in northern Syria, as well as al-Bab. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Abdul Kerimkhanov New codes regarding the subsoil use and taxes will stimulate investments in the oil and gas industry of Kazakhstan, effectively regulate the level of tax burden on subsoil users and intensify the development of new fields on the Caspian Sea shelf. This was stated by Kazakh Energy Kanat Bozumbayev who talked about the image of Kazakhstans energy sector in view of current and future changes at the plenary session of the conference within the meeting of the World Petroleum Council. In order to be competitive and attractive for investments, we intend to move forward, analyze the practice of developed countries in attracting capital, improve our own legislative base in the field of subsoil use, and offer more favorable conditions to investors. We must ensure the effective use of our competitive advantages, which lie in the geographical location of Kazakhstan in the heart of Eurasia, the high level of education of our specialists, the broad opportunities for the development of high-tech projects, finally, openness and desire to improve, taking into account the rich experience of the leading countries, he said. The Code On Subsoil and Subsoil Use and the Code On Taxes and Other Mandatory Payments to the Budget will stimulate an increase in investments in the oil and gas industry of Kazakhstan, effectively regulate the level of tax burden on subsoil users, and also intensify the development of new fields on the Caspian Sea shelf, according to Bozumbayev. The Minister noted that after the Code on Subsoil entered into legal force this summer, all existing contracts for subsoil use continue to be valid. At the same time, the Code greatly simplifies the procedure and terms for obtaining the right to subsoil use and the terms for concluding a contract. Subsoil use right is granted by auction (with the exception of the state companies, which have right to direct negotiations). The term of the contract is reduced to 1.5 months (previously it took from 1.5 to 2 years). Meanwhile, in the tax sphere, the commercial discovery bonus has been canceled, an alternative subsoil use tax has been introduced for offshore and deep oil and gas fields. In the field of managing emissions and waste associated with energy, the concept of technologically inevitable burning has been introduced. All these innovations are progressive, capable of ensuring the competitiveness of the work of subsoil users in Kazakhstan compared to other countries. We are already seeing investors react to these changes. Evidence of this is the initiative of such companies as ENI, Lukoil, which concludes agreements with KazMunaiGaz on exploration on the blocks of the Caspian shelf. There is also activity of other investors who are willing to invest in the exploration of oil and gas fields, the minister concluded. Oil and gas sector is the major and most rapidly growing industry in Kazakhstan which brings the country a lion's share of its incomes. The importance of Kazakhstan in the global energy security is growing. This is due to the increase in supplies of Kazakhstans energy resources to the world market. Kazakhstan is among the top 15 countries in the world for proven oil reserves, with three percent of the world's reserves of black gold. Oil and gas bearing areas occupy 62 percent of the country's area and have 172 oil fields, of which more than 80 are under development. More than 90 percent of the oil reserves are concentrated in the 15 largest fields. Tengiz, Karachaganak and Kashagan are the largest oil fields in Kazakhstan. Three oil giants will be able to bring Kazakhstan's oil production to a new level in the coming years even if new oil fields are not discovered. --- Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed three laws on the ratification of international documents, Uzbek media reported. In particular, the Uzbek president signed the Law on Ratification of the Paris Agreement (Paris, December 12, 2015). The Paris Agreement was adopted on December 12, 2015 following the 21st United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Paris. The climate change agreement developed in Paris for the first time in the history united the efforts of all world powers to contain climate change. Shavkat Mirziyoyev also approved the Law on Ratification of the Amendment to the Charter of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (Abidjan, July 1011, 2017). The Law on Ratification of the Statute for the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (Istanbul, November 7, 1999 with amendments dated May 7, 2017) was also signed. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Senior officials from member states of the Economic Cooperation Organization, ECO, are scheduled to convene in Tehran on October 6, an official with Iran Veterinary Organization said. ECO member states will travel to Iran On Saturday to discuss various bilateral ties, including veterinary-related issues and diseases, Bahman Abedi Kiasari said, Fars news agency reported on October 3. The summit will convey a clear message to the world at a time that Washington is seeking Tehrans isolation, he added. Iran will continue to preserve its international ties under any circumstances, the official said. ECO is an intergovernmental regional organization which was established in 1985 by Iran, Pakistan and Turkey for the purpose of promoting economic, technical and cultural cooperation among the member states. In 1992, the organization was expanded to include seven new members. Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are currently ECO member states. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz He has been an ambassador of Kazakhstan to Egypt since September 2020, before that, since April 2019, he was Ambassador-at-Large of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and even earlier, from October 2013 to February 2019, he worked as Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the UAE. By Abdul Kerimkhanov Representatives of 14 Kazakh enterprises take part in a business forum at the first meeting of the Kyrgyz-Kazakh Business Council, which is being held in Bishkek on October 3. Following the first meetings, a memorandum on the establishment of a Kyrgyz-Kazakh business council was signed between the Kyrgyz Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Kazakh Foreign Trade Chamber. The purpose of the formation of the council is to assist in expanding and strengthening trade and economic cooperation. In addition, agreements have been signed between the enterprises of the two countries, and new contracts are expected to be inked between other companies as part of the B2B negotiations. The Kazakh delegation includes representatives of export-oriented enterprises of the construction, engineering, medical, chemical, automotive industries. Kazakhstan is interested in intensifying cooperation in such priority areas as water and energy, agriculture, transport and communications, mining, manufacturing and tourism. The president of the Kyrgyz Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Marat Sharshekeev, stated that in 2017, the bilateral trade between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan amounted to more than $ 750 million. At the same time, Kazakhstan is one of the leading trade, economic and investment partners of Kyrgyzstan. Kazakh exports are dominated by plant products, flour, grain, flour and confectionery, metal products, coal, household appliances. In turn, agricultural products, fruits and vegetables, textile products are supplied from Kyrgyzstan. As Adviser Counselor of the Kazakh Embassy to the Kyrgyz Republic Almat Toekin noted in his speech, the Kazakh side is interested in raising the current level of trade to $ 1 billion a year, and there are all possibilities for that. The current meeting will make it possible to take another step towards the development of bilateral relations, the diplomat added. Director of the Agency for the Promotion and Protection of Investments of the Kyrgyz Republic Adilbek Uulu Shumkarbek, in turn, spoke about the sectors of interest to Kyrgyzstan. We are interested in projects not just for the extraction of minerals, but also for their processing. Also, investments in the field of deep processing of crops with further exports to China and the EEU countries are of great interest. Today there is an urgent need and activity in projects in the field of new innovative products. This direction can be an excellent opportunity for the Kazakh business. We need to deepen cooperation. I am sure that holding such forums will allow doing this, he noted. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Laman Ismayilova Analytical agency TurStat has presented a ranking of the best and most popular gastronomic festivals of CIS countries in the middle of autumn among Russian tourists. The Pomegranate Festival in Azerbaijan entered the Top 3 enogastronomic events of the CIS countries, popular among Russian tourists in October 2018, according to TourStat. The rating is based on the analysis of the popularity of tours and the uniqueness of events. The history of Azerbaijan is inseparably connected with cultivating pomegranates, extending deep into the centuries. Pomegranate is the national symbol of Azerbaijan, thats why a special holiday is held every autumn devoted to this king of fruits. Pomegranate holiday is traditionally held every year in Goychay region since 2006. All 55 species of Azerbaijani pomegranate found grow in Goychay. The Annual Pomegranate Festival, one of Azerbaijans most loved and colorful festivals, was held in Krasnoyarsk, Russia last year. The event featured exhibition, displaying folk crafts, vivid national dresses etc. The originality and taste of Azerbaijani cuisine has attracted a lot of guests. --- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz ABOUT THIS SERIES The Californian has interviewed dozens of local candidates for office in recent weeks. Over the next several weeks, we will offer information, analyses and endorsements on all major political races and ballot measures in the Nov. 6 general election. You can also find complete coverage, including video interviews with candidates, at Bakersfield.com/election-2018. How to find your voting location: The Kern County Elections Division has an online tool available to look up your polling location using your address. Go to https://www.kernvote.com/Voting/ and click on "Go to a Polling Place." Then type in your address. 3 1 of 3 LNG Ltd. / LNG Ltd. Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Mark M. Hancock, Staff Photojournalist / The Beaumont Enterprise Show More Show Less 3 of 3 WASHINGTON - Over the first half of 2018 U.S. net natural gas exports more than doubled, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The gains came with the expansion of domestic LNG facilities, which averaged exports of 2.72 billion cubic feet per day from January to June of this year. Yale alumni gathered in front of the Yale Club to voice their opposition to the confirmation of Republican Supreme court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh, who also received degrees from Yale, on October 2, 2018 in New York City. As the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) continues their one week investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct by Kavanaugh, both supporters of the nominee and opponents are making their voices heard throughout country. A California appeals court rejected a defense contractor's argument that his conviction on child pornography charges was unconstitutional because the government conducted an overly broad search under a warrant issued to obtain evidence of foreign spying. Keith Gartenlaub, who had been a senior computer systems manager at Boeing in Long Beach, California, was convicted in December 2015 of one count of possession of child porn. He was sentenced to 41 months in prison. On Monday he was moved to a halfway house. Gartenlaub came to federal agents' attention as they investigated an alleged leak of information to Chinese agents about Boeing's C-17 military transport plane. Though the initial secret search of his house was authorized by a warrant issued under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which governs espionage inside the United States, no spying or hacking charges were ever brought against him. Gartenlaub's defense team argued he should be entitled to see the FISA order application, which is classified. His lawyers pointed to the Justice Department's release of a redacted version of a 2016 FISA application to wiretap Carter Page, one of President Trump's former campaign advisers. The release of the Page FISA materials was unprecedented. In the Gartenlaub investigation, FBI agents turned up child porn material in what his legal team contended was a search that swept too broadly. Seven months later, they obtained a criminal warrant to conduct a further search. Gartenlaub, 50, wanted to see the FISA order to challenge it as based on false information. On appeal, he also sought to have the court throw out the child porn evidence on grounds it was obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment. In a brief opinion, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit upheld the lower court's conviction. "No controlling authority dictates the conclusion that the government's Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act ("FISA") search and subsequent use of FISA-derived materials in a non-national security prosecution violates the Fourth Amendment, such that the district court's failure to follow it was plain error," the panel said. The court acknowledged "the idea that the government can decide that someone is a foreign agent based on secret information; on that basis obtain computers containing '[t]he sum of [that] individual's private life' . . . and then prosecute that individual for completely unrelated crimes discovered as a result of rummaging through that computer comes perilously close to the exact abuses against which the Fourth Amendment was designed to protect." However, it went on to say, "the district court did not commit plain error by concluding otherwise." The panel did not elaborate. An attorney for Gartenlaub expressed dismay with the 4.5-page ruling, which was filed on Sept. 19 but unsealed only on Tuesday - 10 months after oral arguments. "Evidence is being reviewed in secret that our client has never seen, and that cuts against our system of justice," said Tor Ekeland. "This case goes to fundamental matters of due process and our adversarial system of law." Elizabeth Goitein, a national security law analyst at the Brennan Center for Justice, said the court "punted on the critical Fourth Amendment question." A warrant is supposed to describe with particularity the places to be searched and the things to be seized. "In this case the FISA order became a general warrant, which is what the Fourth Amendment is supposed to protect against," she said. Ekeland said Gartenlaub will move for a rehearing by the entire court. Candidates vying for the top job in Southeast Texass largest county laid out their platforms Tuesday evening, hoping to prove their merits to voters still in recovery from a thousand-year flood. Nearly 100 residents attended the forum at the Jefferson County Courthouse, where candidates for Jefferson County judge and 172nd District Court judge tried to woo support. Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick and his Democratic opponent Nick Lampson both cited economic growth and emergency management as some of their top priorities. According to Branick, the regions oil and gas industry has seen a renaissance, with billions of invested and thousands of jobs created. Things look bright for our future, said the Port Arthur native. Lampson, a former U.S. Congressman, said diversity in economic development is whats needed to grow the county. We have great support from industry in Jefferson County, said Lampson, But our children want to be involved with high tech and other activities, leaving the area for cities like Austin, Dallas and Houston. Lampson said he believed that the county could do better to streamline its budget, pointing to his previous tenure as Jefferson County tax assessor-collector, during which he said he cut annual residential taxes collected from $4 million to $1 million per year. According to Branick, Jefferson County has been in the finest financial condition in our history as county during his years as judge, pointing to the countys $43 million in reserves. If re-elected, the Republican said the county would continue to be good stewards of this budget and continue to properly plan for emergency response and recovery. In addition to natural incident management system and command trainings from FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security, Branick said he had on the job training, unfortunately when it comes to natural disasters. Lampson said he has worked directly with agencies responding to natural disasters, including developing an emergency management command center in Galveston County. Some of Lampsons campaign promises include establishing a countywide emergency planning committee. My networking ability has been able to put me in places where Ive made significant differences for my community, he said. Both Branick and Lampson studied at Lamar University. Branick attended Baylor University School of Law, where he graduated in 1984. Lampson studied biology at Lamar University and later earned a masters degree in education. Lampson, a 73-year-old Beaumont native, is Riceland Healthcares vice president for operations. According to Lampson, most county judges in Texas are not attorneys. He noted that two out of the last five Jefferson County judges were not attorneys and were able to perform good services for the people of Jefferson County. Lampson, who represented the Ninth Congressional District from 1996 to 2004 before redistricting, held the 22nd District seat from 2006 to 2008. He unsuccessfully ran for U.S. Congress in 2004, 2008 and 2012. He was previously the Jefferson County tax assessor-collector for nearly two decades. County judges are often thought of as a countys chief executive officer, according to the Texas Association of Counties. The county judge is the presiding officer of the commissioners court, judge of the county court and head of emergency management, in addition to other judicial and administrative duties. County judges are elected to four-year terms. Judicial candidates for the 172nd District Court, Democrat Melody Chappell and Republican Mitch Templeton, both graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and have affiliations with Beaumont ISD. Chappell is a former Beaumont ISD attorney and Templeton was appointed as a manager to the BISD school board in August of last year. Judge Donald Floyd, who recently turned 75, has presided over the court since 1989, but age restrictions prevent him from running for re-election. Templeton, a Jasper native, said it has been a joyful experience to serve on the school board with like-minded managers who want to do whats right for the children and then for the taxpayers. Templeton, 54, said he would like to use the courts unused capacity to hear criminal cases to help keep mentally ill people or those who were too poor to make bond out of jail. Chappell said she was not opposed to easing the criminal dockets of criminal courts, but said she has not heard from criminal district judges that such help was needed. Chappell, 52, a Crosby native, said she misses the great people she worked with at the Beaumont school district, but does not miss the controversy of BISD. I as an attorney took an oath to represent my clients, Chappell said. Thats what I do every single day regardless of what school district Im representing. Like Templeton, Chappell said she didnt think there would be any conflict regarding her work with BISD, adding that she hopes Mr. Templeton will be able to keep his job on the board of managers. Both Templeton and Chappell said they would have more formal courtroom procedures if elected. Election Day is Nov. 6. Early voting begins Oct. 22. Phoebe.Suy@BeaumontEnterprise.com Twitter.com/PhoebeSuy Tommy Bean, the Vidor man who sparked a full-fledged international incident when he was arrested in Mexico 20 years ago because he had a few boxes of shotgun shells in his vehicle, died Monday. He was 79. Bean, a federally licensed firearm dealer, was attending a gun show in Laredo on March 14, 1998, when he and his assistants decided they wanted to cross into Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, for a meal. Bean told his assistants to clear the vehicle of all firearms, but they overlooked 206 shotgun shells, said Larry C. Hunter, an attorney and longtime friend of Beans. Bean, then a manager at Buddy Chevrolet in Port Arthur, was taken into custody by Mexican authorities and sentenced to five years in prison on arms smuggling charges. Hunter, who visited Bean in La Loma prison, said the conditions were atrocious. But, Bean had the resources to acquire a thatched-roof hut on the prison grounds and set up a wheelbarrow with a grate to serve as a barbecue, he said. He made something positive out of a very negative situation, Hunter said. In a 1998 jailhouse interview with Hearst Newspapers, Bean said he passed the time playing dominoes and working on his release. He got by on goods purchased in the prisons commissary, including large quantities of ice and orange soda. In his boredom, he said he dreamed of a notice hed like to put in his local newspapers when he got home. He said it was going to be an open invitation to a big party. At a glance A visitation for Tommy Bean is scheduled for 6 tonight at Broussard's, 1605 North Major Drive, in Beaumont. Bean's funeral is planned for 2 p.m. Thursday at Turning Point Church, 3600 North Main St. in Vidor. Interment will follow at Restlawn Memorial Park in Vidor. See More Collapse I think Ill have it at the KC hall, he said. Hunter, working with then-state Sen. David Bernsen and then-U.S. Rep. Jim Turner, both Democrats, managed to free Bean from the Mexican jail on Sept. 21, 1998, and transfer him under a treaty between the U.S. and Mexico to a low-security federal prison in South Texas. He was ultimately released on Oct. 21, 1998. Bean was free from prison, but still faced legal obstacles to restore his Second Amendment rights, Hunter said. In January 2000, then-U.S. District Judge Joe Fisher restored Beans firearm rights, but the Fifth U.S. Circuit in New Orleans overturned Fishers ruling. It took the arrest of another U.S. citizen for a similar violation in Japan for the U.S. Supreme Court to decide that the laws of other countries should not affect a citizens rights on repatriation. Once you go through that, you really appreciate the Bill of Rights, Hunter said. Commenting on his eventual release from prison, Hunter said Bean appeared as if he had just returned from a fishing trip. Bean officially regained his rights to own firearms in April 2005. Unfortunately, before then, he had to give up an extensive inventory of firearms kept at his Vidor home, including valuable collectibles, according to Enterprise archive stories. You dont ever miss your water until your well runs dry, Bean told an Enterprise reporter following the 2005 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in his favor. Its a mind game, to me it is. Ive never been in any trouble all my life, then Ive got to go through all this. ... I was always under the impression if somebody was in prison, they did something to be there. Thats not always the case. Bean was born in Newton County on Nov. 24, 1938, and was raised in the Trout Creek community, according to his obituary. He and his wife, Sara, also known as Sadie, were married on May 25, 1962, and reared two children; a son, Cory, and a daughter, Julie L. Lightfoot. Tommy was a personal friend. He used to babysit our kids. He was a really neat person, Hunter said. Dan Wallach is a freelance writer. A Harris County jury late Tuesday sentenced a 38-year-old Houston man to 80 years in prison after convicting him of felony murder for causing a 2015 crash that left a 6-year-old boy dead just minutes after a hit-and-run that killed a homeless veteran. Blaine Boudreaux was sentenced by state District Judge Robert Johnson after jurors deliberated about four hours. He should spend every day of it behind bars thinking about the people he killed, District Attorney Kim Ogg said in a release after the verdict. Hit and run murder is an especially cowardly crime. Boudreaux was implicated in four wrecks, two of which were fatal over the course of three and a half hours on April 26, 2015, a Sunday afternoon. A DAY OF WRECKS: A timeline of Blaine Boudreaux's alleged crashes During the week and a half-long trial, defense attorneys Billy Skinner and Matt Deluca argued that the prosecutors did not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Boudreaux was committing a hit- and-run when he ran a stoplight and caused the wreck that killed 6-year-old Joshua Medrano. After the verdict, Skinner said he was disappointed for Boudreauxs young son. He also said the district attorneys office was grandstanding by charging Boudreaux with felony murder instead of intoxication manslaughter, which would have capped punishment at 20 years. We are really disappointed for Blaine and his family, particularly his son Eli, he said. I believe this is a direct result of the DAs office overcharging the crime for alleged deterrence but what they want is the publicity. Prosecutors detailed a long trail of carnage that began about 3:00 p.m. that day when he rear-ended a mother and her daughter on Fannin near the Texas Medical Center and was given a traffic ticket by a Houston police officer. About an hour later, he rear-ended a man in a smart car at Weslayan and Westpark. Within 20 minutes of that, Boudreaux allegedly caused two more crashes, both of which were fatal. He drove his black Dodge Ram pickup to Spur 5, near the University of Houston, where he ran over 61-year-old homeless military veteran Leonard Batiste. Minutes later, he was going about 60 mph when he ran a stoplight at Lockwood and Interstate 10, colliding with a Honda Civic and killing Medrano. Prosecutors told jurors that police arrested him on the scene for driving while intoxicated and said blood tests showed he had taken the prescription drug Xanax. Joshua Medranos family was present during trial and watched during closing arguments as Vehicular Crimes Chief Sean Teare and prosecutor Lynn Nguyen told jurors about Boudreauxs history of driving while drugged or drunk. This little boy deserves justice, Teare said as he held up a photo of a smiling Joshua wearing a blue and white striped polo shirt. He never got to grow up. Angel and Cynthia never got to see him have a girlfriend or go to prom or have children - it got taken away from him, just snatched away. brian.rogers@chron.com Tuesday, October 2, 2018 An announcement from the Arizona State Bar. The Presiding Disciplinary Judge of the Arizona Supreme Court accepted a consent to disbarment for Sheldon I. Goldstein and Michelle J. Scopellite, partners at Goldstein & Scopellite in Dallas. The disciplinary action is a result of allegations stemming from client-reported billing irregularities. Eleven clients and three employees complained of questionable billing practices by Goldstein and Scopellite. Clients reported excessive and unreasonable fees. While the pair dispute and deny allegations made against them, they did not wish to proceed with formal proceedings nor contest the charges due to health concerns. They also participated in the Bars Fee Arbitration Program. In every Fee Arbitration case Goldstein and Scopellite participated in, they reduced their fee prior to the settlement or hearing. Sheldon I. Goldstein and Michelle J. Scopellites disbarments were effective Sept. 18, 2018. Goldstein was ordered to pay $2,192.79 and to the State Bar of Arizona for costs and expenses associated with the investigation and Scopellite was ordered to pay $2,195.49. The consents do not identify the misconduct. (Mike Frisch) https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2018/10/an-announcement-the-presiding-disciplinary-judge-of-the-arizona-supreme-court-accepted-a-consent-to-disbarment-for-sheldon-i.html Here are four recent updates on anesthesia practices and groups: Envision to buy Nashville Anesthesia Services, sliding into new market Nashville, Tenn.-based Envision Corp.'s Physician Services platform plans to purchase anesthesia group Nashville Anesthesia Services. NAS is the exclusive anesthesia services provider to Smyrna, Tenn.-based StoneCrest Medical Center, Nashville-based Southern Hills Medical Center and three Nashville-area ASCs. Surgery Center of the Pacific gets green light to add pain management procedures for $100K Honolulu, Hawaii-based Surgery Center of the Pacific's certificate of need to add pain management procedures was approved. The maximum capital expenditure for the services expansion is $100,000. Northstar Anesthesia sues Metrosouth Medical Center for $1.25M Irving, Texas-based Northstar Anesthesia filed a lawsuit alleging Blue Island, Ill.-based Metrosouth Medical Center refused to pay for more than $1.25 million worth of anesthesia services provided. The anesthesiology services company filed the complaint Sept. 4, citing alleged breach of contract. Community rallies to support Southern Tier Anesthesiologists Olean (N.Y.) General Hospital's decision to drop Olean-based Southern Tier Anesthesiologists was met with an outpouring of community support for the local anesthesia provider. Read more. Physician-hospital ASC joint ventures can be lucrative when executed skillfully, according to Joan Dentler, Avanza Healthcare Strategies president and CEO. In an issue of the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association's ASC Physician Focus, Ms. Dentler shared six key considerations for partnering with a hospital: 1. Bring in outside counsel. When discussing joint-venture parameters and deal terms with hospital leaders, involve a neutral attorney who has experience in ASC governance requirements. Regarding personal interests, the hospital and physicians should consult with their own respective attorneys. 2. Be open-minded about select hospital services. A surgery center can benefit from certain hospital services such as human resources, payer contracting, maintenance, housekeeping and purchasing without compromising efficiency. However, it's important to maintain administrative oversight. 3. Emphasize case migration. Urge hospital leaders to move some or all of the hospital's outpatient surgery portfolio to the ASC, which could help free up operating room time for higher acuity cases with higher reimbursement. 4. Establish a cooperative relationship. Build a collaborative culture through transparency and open lines of communication. Down the road, this type of relationship will enable the ASC to turn to the hospital for in-house expertise, supplies, marketing or community education efforts. 5. Adopt an ASC-specific IT team. Adopting technology designed for the hospital setting can hurt an ASC's efficiency, productivity and financial health. Make sure hospital leaders understand those risks and explore options other than an inpatient-centric IT solution. 6. Involve a third-party adviser. Continuously or periodically seek insight from a consultant. Third-party consultants can provide guidance on protecting an ASC's sustainability rather than just one party's interests. Implementation of mandated nurse-to-patient staffing ratios in Massachusetts hospitals would cost $676 million to $949 million annually, according to an independent analysis released Oct. 3 by the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission. Hospital executives have projected the staffing ratios would cost about $1 billion in the first year and at least $900 million per year after that. The Massachusetts Nurses Association has estimated $35 million to $47 million in annual costs. The nurse staffing proposal will be presented to voters in November. The commission which monitors Massachusetts healthcare spending growth and would oversee implementation of the proposal said it examined California's mandated nurse staffing ratio law, the fiscal year 2017 staffing levels in Massachusetts hospitals, and estimated costs related to implementing the Massachusetts proposal. Question 1, proposed by the Massachusetts Nurses Association, calls for mandated nurse staffing ratios that would vary by unit, floor or department. The commission said its cost estimates "are likely conservative" because there isn't detailed staffing data for emergency departments, observation units and outpatient departments. The commission also projected an additional 2,286 to 3,101 additional full-time equivalent RNs would be needed at Massachusetts hospitals to comply with the staffing ratios. The commission said the required increase in hospital RNs would likely increase the nursing demand statewide and result in RN pay increases of 4 percent to 6 percent in hospital and nonhospital sectors. The commission also found that the staffing ratios could save $34 million to $47 million due to shorter hospital stays and fewer adverse events at hospitals because of the increase in the number of RNs.The commission said potential savings could also come from reduced RN turnover and workforce injuries. The Massachusetts Nurses Association criticized the analysis, telling the Boston Business Journal it views the commission as a "fox guarding the hen house." The analysis was developed with Joanne Spetz, PhD, and professor at the Institute for Health Policy Studies at the University of California, San Francisco. "This guess on costs by the HPC is irresponsible and inconsistent and resembles nothing that the HPC has ever done before," said Julie Pinkham, the union's executive director. "There is no independent data source or transparency in these cost estimates." But Dan Cence of the Coalition to Protect Patient Safety, told Becker's it believes the analysis "confirms that the negative consequences are too great, and the costs are too high for rigid, government-mandated nurse staffing ratios in the commonwealth. This puts the cost question to bed. "Even with the HPC unable to quantify emergency department costs, they still agree that the cost could reach almost a billion dollars," said Mr. Cence. More articles on healthcare finance: This week's 5 must-reads for hospital RCM leaders Hospital CEOs petition Congress over prescription drug-pricing program Waystar acquires UPMC's claims management service El Segundo, Calif.-based Verity Health, which filed for bankruptcy earlier this year, filed a motion Oct. 2 to auction off its hospitals in Santa Clara County. The health system seeks to hold the auction in December 2018 to sell its hospitals in Santa Clara County, including San Jose, Calif.-based O'Connor Hospital and St. Louise Regional Hospital in Gilroy, Calif. The bidding process is being led by Santa Clara County, which placed a $235 million "stalking horse bid" for the hospitals, The Mercury News reports. The bid serves to set the floor for any competing offers. If no other offers emerge, Santa Clara County's offer would stand. "O'Connor and Saint Louise are two critically important institutions in the communities they serve, and the county has shown great leadership to ensure both can continue their mission of providing high-quality care to patients well into the future," Rich Adcock, CEO of Verity Health, said in the news release. Santa Clara County has expressed interest in acquiring the two hospitals for some time, according to The Mercury News. "We're pretty happy. We think we have a competitive offer," a county executive told The Mercury News. Verity Health and its six hospitals were sold to New York City-based private equity firm BlueMountain Capital Management in 2015. Last year, billionaire investor Patrick Soon-Shiong, MD, purchased Integrity Health, BlueMountain's subsidiary that manages Verity Health. However, in the nine months that ended March 31, the health system saw operating losses of $55.8 million, The Mercury News reports. Mr. Adcock said the system's draining financials stemmed from more than $1 billion of bond debt and unfunded pension liabilities plus infrastructure costs. Mr. Adcock said officials prefer to sell all or some of the hospitals to buyers who would continue providing healthcare services, and that they have spoken with 100-plus different organizations interested in purchasing various parts of the system. To access the full Mercury News report, click here. Oakland, Calif.-based Kaiser Permanente and the Alliance of Health Care Unions have reached a three-year tentative agreement after about five months of negotiations. The deal, reached Sept. 23, covers nearly 48,000 Kaiser Permanente healthcare workers represented by union locals in California, Colorado, Hawaii, the Northwest, the Mid-Atlantic, and Georgia. It includes across-the-board pay increases, which vary by region and contract year, as well as a new labor-management trust to fund a Kaiser Permanente-Alliance partnership, according to Kaiser Permanente. It also includes a new educational trust to fund job training and other educational and professional development opportunities for unionized employees and continued support for 3,600 front-line, unit-based teams, which are jointly led by managers and union-represented employees. Both sides said they are pleased with the agreement. "This agreement advances our ability to provide high-quality, affordable healthcare services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve," said Chuck Columbus, Kaiser Permanente senior vice president and chief human resources officer. Alliance Executive Director Peter diCicco called the deal "a testament to every worker who spoke up, signed a petition, attended a rally and stood by the union and our Alliance." The deal still must be voted on by local unions. More articles on human capital and risk: Nurses, Michigan Medicine reach tentative labor deal UVM Medical Center nurses ratify labor deal Johns Hopkins graduate students announce plans to unionize The Arizona Center for Disability Law filed a lawsuit Sept. 12 against Phoenix-based Arizona State Hospital, claiming hospital officials violated federal law by refusing to provide the center with access to the facility, patients and their records, according to ABC15 Arizona. Here are three things to know: 1. Federal law designates ,Agencies like the ACDL as a "protection and advocacy ageny, to protect and advocate the legal rights of Arizonans with disabilities. Federal law also grants them access to patients' files and to claims of patient neglect and abuse, according to the report. 2. The ACDL claims hospital officials have refused to provide the organization with unaccompanied access to patients and their files for several years. "If the Arizona State Hospital can choose which of their residents ACDL can speak to, listen in on our conversations, limit our access to the places and people they want us to see, then no one will ever know what's happening to the people we cannot see behind the doors," Chris Carlsen, an attorney at ACDL, said in a statement cited by ABC 15 Arizona . 3. Arizona State Hospital is run by Arizona Department of Health Services. A spokesperson said the department would not comment on the pending litigation, but released the following statement to ABC 15 Arizona. "The Arizona Department of Health Services does not comment on pending litigation. That said, the top priority at the Arizona State Hospital is to provide the safest and most therapeutic environment possible for our patients. The Department acts vigorously to protect patients under our care and their privacy," the statement read. More articles on legal and regulator issues: Becker's Healthcare is pleased to recognize the following 71 CEOs, presidents and administrators of critical access hospitals. The men and women included on this list lead organizations regularly recognized for patient safety and quality. Several have overseen hospital expansions, mergers and EHR implementations as well as the construction of satellite clinics and strategic partnerships with local healthcare organizations. These individuals hold an important role within their community, serving on corporate boards and state-level initiatives to improve access to care. Becker's Healthcare compiled this list through nominations and editorial research. The leaders presented are in alphabetical order, and individuals do not pay and cannot pay for inclusion on this list. Please contact Laura Dyrda at ldyrda@beckershealthcare.com with questions or comments on this list. Todd Almendinger. President and CEO of Magruder Hospital (Port Clinton, Ohio). Mr. Almendinger joined Magruder Hospital in 2006 as the vice president of finance and CFO before being appointed CEO in 2012. He came from Delaware, Ohio-based Grady Memorial Hospital, where he served as vice president of finance and CFO. Mr. Almendinger earned both his bachelor of science and MBA degrees from Bowling Green (Ohio) State University. Sandra Anderson. President of Ascension Eagle River Memorial Hospital (Eagle River, Wis.) and Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital (Tomahawk, Wis.). Ms. Anderson is president of Ascension Wisconsin's Northwoods facilities, including Ascension Eagle River (Wis.) Memorial Hospital, Tomahawk, Wis.-based Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital, Rhinelander, Wis.-based Ascension St. Mary's Hospital and Woodruff, Wis.-based Howard Young Health Care. She previously served in leadership positions at hospitals in Wisconsin and Ohio. Arthur Blank. President and CEO of Mount Desert Island Hospital (Bar Harbor, Maine). Mr. Blank joined Mount Desert Island Hospital in 1999 during which time he transitioned the facility to a critical access hospital, incorporated nine community health centers and helped establish the Maine Rural Health Collaborative with four other rural hospitals in the state. He is the former chairman of the board for the Maine Hospital Association and HealthInfoNet, Maine's health information exchange. Thomas Borowski. President, Hudson (Wis.) Hospital & Clinic. Mr. Borowski came to Hudson Hospital & Clinic in 2017 from the Mayo Clinic Health System's Waseca, Minn.-based and New Prague, Minn.-based medical centers, where he had been CEO since 2014. He previously served as the chief compliance officer, chief knowledge management officer and CIO for Rochester, Minn.-based Mayo Clinic Health System's Southwest Minnesota Region. Doug Bush. President of ProMedica Defiance (Ohio) Regional Hospital. Before joining ProMedica Defiance in January, Mr. Bush served as associate vice president of strategic planning and business development for Toledo, Ohio-based ProMedica. While there he gained experience investigating business development opportunities for expanding care and developing new care delivery models. As CEO, Mr. Bush oversees operations at the 25-bed critical access hospital. He earned an MBA from the University of Toledo. Jack Keller. CEO of St. Thomas Hickman Hospital (Centerville, Tenn.). Mr. Keller has been CEO of St. Thomas Hickman Hospital for nearly 20 years. The hospital's system includes a critical access hospital, a 40-bed long-term care facility, an outpatient psychiatric unit and two rural health clinics. He previously served as CEO of Camden (Tenn.) General Hospital and vice president of professional services at Huntingburg, Ind.-based St. Joseph's Hospital. Mr. Keller earned his bachelor's degree from Evansville-based University of Southern Indiana and a master's degree in health services administration from the University of Evansville. He has served as president of the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the Town of Centerville (Tenn.) Industrial Board. Patrick Carron. President and CEO of Perry County Memorial Hospital (Perryville, Mo.). Mr. Carron began his healthcare career as a registered nurse at Barnes Hospital and St. Louis University Hospital in St. Louis. He joined Perry County Memorial Hospital in 1993 as vice president of operations before being promoted to president and CEO in 2005. He serves on the board of trustees of the Girardeau-based Southeast Missouri Hospital College of Nursing and Health Services and is also a board member of the Healthcare Services Group, a part of the Missouri Hospital Association. Paula Chermside. CEO of Aspirus Ironwood (Mich.) Hospital. Ms. Chermside served as COO of Aspirus Ironwood before being named CEO in 2016. While COO, she oversaw major expansion and renovation projects at the hospital and implemented an EMR system. In her current role, Ms. Chermside presides over the 25-bed critical access hospital, which the National Rural Hospital Association ranked among the Top 20 Critical Access Hospitals in the nation in 2018. Moody Chisholm. President and CEO of UT Health East Texas (Tyler). Mr. Chisolm is responsible for the operations of 11 hospitals, two freestanding emergency centers and over 50 clinics that make up UT Health East Texas. He has more than 35 years of healthcare experience and previously served as CEO of Jacksonville, Fla.-based St. Vincent's Healthcare. Sharon Cox. CEO of Rawlins County Health Center (Atwood, Kan.). Ms. Cox is responsible for operations at the 24-bed critical access hospital that includes more than 70 employees. She has served as chairperson for the Kansas Hospital Association Workforce Technical Advisory Group and was a member of the Rural Health Visioning Technical Advisory Group. Ms. Cox earned a master's in management from Regis University in Denver. Dolan Dalpoas. President and CEO of Abraham Lincoln (Ill.) Memorial Hospital. Mr. Dalpoas was appointed CEO of Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital in 2006 and has served in various leadership positions within Memorial Health System since joining in 1994. In 2000, he received the Southern Illinois Regent's Award from the American College of Healthcare Executives as the early career healthcare executive of the year. He earned a master's degree in public health from the University of Illinois at Springfield. Michael Donlin. Administrator of Floyd Valley Healthcare (Le Mars, Iowa). Mr. Donlin began his career in healthcare as an orderly at an Onamia, Minn.-based hospital before he joined the Navy and was assigned to the National Naval Medical Center now the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in 1975. After serving in administration for military hospitals across the country, Mr. Donlin became administrator for Floyd Valley Hospital in 1998, which is now known as Floyd Valley Healthcare. Mr. Donlin is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and serves on the boards of Le Mars Area Dialysis Services and the Le Mars Area Betterment Foundation. Mike Dowdy. CEO of Central Montana Medical Center (Lewistown). Mr. Dowdy has been CEO of Central Montana Medical Center since 2015. He has led the hospital's efforts to participate in a rural ACO, and the hospital was among the top performers of its group for 2016. Before leading Central Montana Medical Center, Mr. Dowdy served as president of strategy and business development at Billings, Mont.-based St. Vincent Healthcare and Miles City, Mont.-based Holy Rosary Healthcare. In addition to serving as CEO, Mr. Dowdy has filled in as an ambulance transport driver when needed and has begun studying to be an emergency medical technician. Mark Fourre, MD. President and CEO of Coastal Healthcare Alliance (Belfast, Maine). Dr. Fourre became CEO of Coastal Healthcare Alliance in 2016, after Pen Bay Medical Center and Waldo County General Hospital merged in the fall of 2015. Since the merger, more than 70 clinical and nonclinical programs have been integrated under Dr. Fourre's leadership. Dr. Fourre serves as the president and CEO of Pen Bay Medical Center and Waldo County General Hospital, which saw 3,316 and 1,486 inpatient admissions, respectively, in 2017. Toby Freier. President of New Ulm (Minn.) Medical Center. During Mr. Freier's tenure as president, New Ulm Medical Center received the AHA Nova Award and earned a spot on iVantage Health Analytics' annual Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals list not just once, but five times. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and frequently speaks across the country on how to transform rural healthcare. Scott Fuller. Regional Hospital President of Seton Edgar B. Davis Hospital (Luling, Texas), Seton Smithville (Texas) Regional Hospital and Seton Highland Lakes Hospital (Burnet, Texas). Mr. Fuller joined Seton in 2006 as vice president and COO for Seton Highland Lakes Hospital and its several health centers. He assumed his role as president of Seton Highland Lakes, Seton Edgar B. Davis and Seton Smithville Regional hospitals in 2017. Highland Lakes and Edgar B. Davis are both 25-bed critical access hospitals, and all three are part of St. Louis-based Ascension. Tim Herrmann. Chief Administrative Officer of PeaceHealth Cottage Grove (Ore.) Community Medical Center. Mr. Herrmann became trauma program coordinator of Eugene, Ore.-based PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center in 1988. He was promoted to administrator and then to chief administrative officer of PeaceHealth Cottage Grove Community Medical Center in 2014. Mr. Herrmann is the founding member and first president of the Oregon Rural Health Quality Network, an organization providing quality training and care coordination to rural and community hospitals and healthcare providers. Before he joined PeaceHealth, Mr. Herrmann was a staff nurse and trauma program coordinator at Honolulu-based Queen's Medical Center. Christopher Hunt, PhD. President of Clay County Hospital (Flora, Ill.). Dr. Hunt holds a doctorate in healthcare administration from Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and currently oversees operations at the 25-bed Clay County Hospital as president. Before joining Clay County Hospital, Mr. Hunt was vice president of clinical services for Samaritan Medical Center in Ashland, Ohio. Dale Hustedt. CEO of Aspirus Medford (Wis.) Hospital & Clinics. Mr. Hustedt serves as the CEO of Aspirus Medford Hospital & Clinics, a 25-bed nonprofit critical access hospital. Previously, Mr. Hustedt was the president and CEO of Estherville, Iowa-based Avera Holy Family Hospital and served as the chief administrative officer of Willmar, Minn.-based Rice Memorial Hospital. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. Jeanie Gentry. CEO of Steele Memorial Medical Center (Salmon, Idaho). Ms. Gentry joined Steele Memorial Medical Center in April 2016, prior to which she served as CEO of two St. Charles Health System hospitals in Madras and Prineville, Ore., for five years. During her tenure with St. Charles, she implemented population health initiatives and large-scale construction projects. Ms. Gentry also served as vice president of allied health at St. John's Lutheran Hospital in Libby, Mont., for 13 years, where she oversaw the lab, imaging, rehab, pharmacy, IT, human resources and marketing departments. Keith Gnagey. CEO of Teton Valley Health (Driggs, Idaho). Mr. Gnagey has a 34-year history of business management experience including change management, business turnaround and systems implementation and developmental experience, stretching from the U.S. to Europe. Prior to serving as the CEO of Teton Valley Health, Mr. Gnagey served as vice president for American Management Systems and as the general manager of AMS Healthcare. Martin Guthmiller. CEO of Orange City (Iowa) Area Health System. Mr. Guthmiller has served as the CEO of Orange City Area Health System since 1993. During his tenure, he oversaw the planning, fundraising and construction of the system's $29.6 million expansion. He has also served on the boards of Community Health Partners, Northwest Iowa Dialysis Center and Orange City Development Corp. Before joining Orange City, Mr. Guthmiller was CFO and assistant administrator at Sheldon-based Northwest Iowa Health Center. Hank Hanigan. CEO of Whitman Hospital & Medical Center (Colfax, Wash.). Mr. Hanigan joined Whitman Hospital & Medical Center in 2014 as CEO. Mr. Hanigan is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and an active member of the Washington State Hospital Association, where he serves on the public policy, rural hospital and critical access hospital network committees. Under his leadership, Whitman Hospital earned a five-star rating for patient satisfaction on CMS' Hospital Compare in 2016. Barry Jacobsen. CEO of Myrtue Medical Center (Harlan, Iowa). Mr. Jacobsen was appointed CEO of Myrtue Medical Center in 2009 after working there for more than a decade. Myrtue Medical Center's integrated healthcare facility includes medical clinics and behavioral health services as well as the Petersen Family Wellness Center and Lewis Family Aquatic Complex. Before becoming CEO, he was Myrtue's CFO for 11 years. Matthew Johnson. President and CEO of Cherokee (Iowa) Regional Medical Center. Mr. Johnson has served as the CEO of Cherokee Regional Medical Center since 2016 but has worked at the hospital since 2008. He currently oversees operations at the hospital, including the addition of a 15,000-square-foot clinic. Mr. Johnson worked as a physical therapist and then as director of physical medicine and rehabilitation prior to his role as CEO. M. Steven Jones. President of University Hospitals Geneva (Ohio) Medical Center. Mr. Jones has served as the CEO of UH Geneva Medical Center since 2016. Mr. Jones, along with the team he leads, has concentrated on physician recruitment, quality patient care, patient satisfaction and employee-physician engagement. Prior to his role as CEO, Mr. Jones served as vice president and COO of Chardon, Ohio-based UH Geauga Medical Center. Trisha Jungels. Interim CEO of Jamestown (N.D.) Regional Medical Center. Ms. Jungels assumed the role of interim CEO in August, while still serving as the CNO and vice president of clinical services at Jamestown Regional Medical Center. She serves on the nursing advisory board of the University of Jamestown, where she earned her bachelor of arts in nursing, and has 11 years of nursing experience. Ms. Jungels is active in community health assessment and improvement planning for Stutsman and Logan counties. Brian Denton. Administrator of Mercy Hospital Kingfisher (Okla.). Mr. Denton joined Mercy Hospital Kingfisher as administrator in 2013 and previously served in leadership roles at Mercy St. Francis Hospital in Mountainview, Mo., where he directed outpatient services and managed the rollout of the hospital's EHR. He earned his master's in healthcare administration from the University of Missouri in Columbia. Jennifer Derks. Chief Administrative Officer of Ascension Calumet Medical Center (Chilton, Wis.). Ms. Derks joined Calumet Medical Center more than 21 years ago. In her current role as chief administrative officer, she oversees the design and implementation of strategies that support system functions, monitors and evaluates overall performance and provides long-range strategic vision. She received her masters in human resources management from Manchester-based Southern New Hampshire University. Mariann Doeling. President of CHI St. Alexius Health Carrington (N.D.) Medical Center. Ms. Doeling is responsible for the financial day-to-day operations of CHI St. Alexius Health Carrington and works with the CHI Fargo (N.D.) Division to align national and regional goals. She is a member of the North Dakota Trauma Foundation and was on the board of directors for the North Dakota Hospital Association. Ms. Doeling earned her master's in organizational leadership from Fargo, N.D.-based University of Jamestown. Jennifer Kessel. CEO of Aultman Orrville (Ohio) Hospital. Appointed in June, Ms. Kessel is new as CEO of Aultman Orrville Hospital. However, she is no stranger to the 25-bed critical access facility, having joined the Aultman Health Foundation in 2002 as a human resource analyst. Ms. Kessel also has worked in strategic planning, corporate operations, corporate communications and human resources at the hospital. She most recently served as vice president of operations at Aultman Orrville. Burke Kline, DHA. CEO of Greeley County Health Services (Tribune, Kan.). Dr. Kline has served as CEO of Greeley County Health Services for nearly twoyears. In this role, he oversees an 18-bed licensed critical access hospital, two rural health clinics and two long-term care facilities. Before joining Greeley, he was associate administrator at Pawnee County Memorial Hospital in Pawnee City, Neb. Debra Knapheide, MSN. CEO, CNO and COO of Holy Cross Hospital Carondelet Health Network (Nogales, Ariz.). At Holy Cross Hospital Carondelet, Ms. Knapheide is responsible for operations, including clinical quality, safety, finance and patient experience. During her tenure, the hospital has received the Critical Access Hospital Recognition Certificate from the National Rural Health Resource Center for its work with the Community Healthcare Integrated Paramedicine Program. Before joining Holy Cross, Ms. Knapheide worked with healthcare professionals in the United Kingdom, India and the Philippines. Connie Koutouzos. CEO of Aspirus Iron River (Mich.) Hospital & Clinics. Ms. Koutouzos helms Aspirus Iron River Hospital & Clinics, which includes a 25-bed critical access hospital and ambulatory locations. During her tenure, Aspirus Iron River Hospital was named among the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the nation in 2018 by the National Rural Health Association's Rural Health Policy Institute, iVantage Health Analytics and the Chartis Center for Rural Health. The Aspirus Iron River Clinic, located next to Aspirus Iron River Hospital, opened this year. Mark Kuhn. CEO of Hammond-Henry Hospital (Geneseo, Ill.). Mr. Kuhn has helmed Hammond-Henry Hospital since October 2017. When he joined, Mr. Kuhn brought more than 31 years of healthcare experience to the top role at the hospital. He previously was a senior leader at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest (Ill.) Hospital, as well as chief administrative officer of Springfield (Ill.) Clinic, a multispecialty physician group. Jerry Laue. Administrator of St. Vincent Clay Hospital (Brazil, Ind.). Mr. Laue serves as administrator of the 25-bed critical access hospital that is part of Indianapolis-based St. Vincent Health, a member of St. Louis-based Ascension Health. He has held the position since 2004 and has worked in healthcare more than 30 years. Mr. Laue has a clinical background in respiratory therapy and his previous experiences include strategic planning, marketing and community development. Tammy Loosbrock. Senior Director of Sanford Medical Center Luverne (Minn.). In addition to the senior director role, Ms. Loosbrock has served as manager of rehab services, ancillary service director and COO of Sanford Medical Center Luverne. In 2017, Healthgrades recognized Sanford Luverne for outstanding patient experience. This year, the medical center was named among the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the nation by the National Rural Health Association's Rural Health Policy Institute, iVantage Health Analytics and the Chartis Center for Rural Health. Patricia Luker. President and CEO of OSF HealthCare Holy Family Medical Center (Monmouth, Ill.). Ms. Luker helms Holy Family Medical Center, a 23-bed acute/intermediate care, critical access hospital that is part of Peoria, Ill.-based OSF HealthCare. She has worked for OSF since July 2009, joining the health system after serving as CEO of Warner Hospital & Health Services in Clinton, Ill. Ms. Luker has also held healthcare leadership positions in Ohio and Louisiana. Lenny Lyons. Administrator of Delta (Utah) Community Hospital and Fillmore (Utah) Community Hospital. Mr. Lyons serves as administrator of Delta Community Hospital, a nonprofit, community facility. He also is administrator of Fillmore (Utah) Community Hospital, which has 18 beds and is the first level 5 trauma center in Utah. Mr. Lyons serves on the combined governing board of both hospitals. Previously, he was director of ancillary and support services at Heber City, Utah-based Heber Valley Medical Center. Michele Meyer, BSN. CEO of Washington County Memorial Hospital (Potosi, Mo.). Ms. Meyer joined Washington County Memorial Hospital in October 2016. During her tenure, the hospital received accreditation for its sleep lab and had its survey for Stroke Level 3 accreditation. The hospital has a new primary care physician, a urologist and a medical director in its emergency department. Ms. Meyer also serves as vice president of operations at Mercy Jefferson Hospital in Festus, Mo. Amy McDaniel. CEO of Iowa Specialty Hospital & Clinics - Belmond. Ms. McDaniel has serves as CEO of Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics' Belmond Campus. She has served in the role since June 2013 and under her leadership, the hospital earned a five-star CMS designation in 2017. This year, the National Rural Health Association named Iowa Specialty Hospital Belmond a Top 20 Critical Access Hospital for overall patient satisfaction. Michelle McEwen. President and CEO of Speare Memorial Hospital (Plymouth, N.H.). Ms. McEwen oversees operations at Speare Memorial Hospital, a 25-bed critical access hospital that had 14,850 emergency room visits in 2017. During her tenure, the hospital has achieved the National Rural Health Association's Top 20 Critical Access Hospitals ranking for five consecutive years. Monty McLaurin. President of Ballad Health Northwest Market, Hancock County Hospital (Sneedville, Tenn.). Mr. McLaurin has at least 35 years of healthcare experience. In his current role, he oversees Kingsport, Tenn.-based Holston Valley Medical Center; Rogersville, Tenn.-based Hawkins County Memorial Hospital; Sneedville, Tenn.-based Hancock County Hospital; Kingsport, Tenn.-based Indian Path Medical Center; Big Stone Gap, Va.-based Lonesome Pine Hospital; Norton, Va.-based Mountain View Regional Medical Center; Norton (Va.) Community Hospital; and Clintwood, Va.-based Dickenson Community Hospital. He previously served as CEO and vice president of Indian Path Medical Center, where he played a key role in its $28 million expansion. Doug McMillan. CEO of Cody (Wyo.) Regional Health. Mr. McMillan has been the CEO of Cody Regional Health, formerly known as West Park Hospital, since 1997. During his tenure, the critical access hospital has earned recognition among Hospitals & Health Networks' Health Care's Most Wired hospitals, a Women's Choice Award as America's 100 best hospitals for patient experience and the Jeff Martin Award for Excellence. In January, the hospital opened an orthopedic specialty clinic at its Cathcart Health Center, and in August 2017 it partnered with Billings (Mont.) Clinic to open a cardiac catheterization laboratory. David Miller. President of River Falls (Wis.) Area Hospital. Mr. Miller has served in his current role since 2008. He is a former nationally registered paramedic and served as the president of St. Paul, Minn.-based Allina Health Emergency Medical Services and Allina Health Urgent Care Clinics. Previously, he was vice president of operations for United Hospital in St. Paul, Minn., where he led the development of the John Nasseff Neuroscience Institute, the St. Paul Cancer Center and the Peter J. King Emergency Center. He also was responsible for multiple patient care departments, support services departments and strategic initiatives. Tamara Miller. CEO of Madison (S.D.) Regional Health System. Ms. Miller helms Madison Regional Health System, a 22-bed nonprofit, independent facility with around 250 employees. She has worked at Madison Regional Health for nearly four decades and has served in the CEO position since 1996. In 2015, the hospital opened a new 110,000-square-foot facility. Tylie Mills, BSN, RN. CEO and Administrator of Pike County Memorial Hospital (Louisiana, Mo.). Before stepping into her role as CEO and administrator of Pike County Memorial Hospital in August 2018, Ms. Mills served as PCMH's director of nursing. She now oversees a staff of 200 people and is responsible for meeting the community's healthcare needs. Ms. Mills has prior experience as the hospital's emergency department and EMS director. Kim Monjesky. CEO of UCHealth Pikes Peak Regional Hospital (Woodland Park, Colo.). Ms. Monjesky took the helm at the 15-bed Pikes Peak Regional Hospital in 2015 after serving as its CFO for five years. Before joining PPRH, she held various leadership roles at Pueblo, Colo.-based St. Mary-Corwin Medical Center, including CFO and vice president of operations. Ms. Monjesky oversaw PPRH's integration into Aurora, Colo.-based UCHealth in February 2018 after a long-standing relationship with the health system. Julie Petersen. CEO of Kittitas Valley Healthcare (Ellensburg, Wash.). Ms. Petersen joined Kittitas Valley Healthcare in June 2016 as interim CEO before permanently taking over the position in April 2017. She has 30 years of experience in the nonprofit healthcare world, previously serving as controller at Richland, Wash.-based Kadlec Regional Medical Center, and then as CFO and CEO of Prosser (Wash.) Memorial Hospital. Ms. Petersen has experience serving on various committees, including as a board member and chair of the Washington State Hospital Association and the Association of Washington Public Hospital Districts. Michele Pilon, BSN, RN. President and Chief Nursing Officer of Transylvania Regional Hospital (Brevard, N.C.). Ms. Pilon has more than 10 years of leadership experience, previously serving as CNO of Memorial Hospital of Martinsville (Va.) and chief nurse executive of Davis Regional Medical Center in Statesville, N.C. She also spent time as acting vice president of patient care services and CNO at Eden, N.C.-based Morehead Memorial Hospital and assistant CNO of Capital Regional Medical Center in Tallahassee, Fla. Jay Purvis. President and CEO of Wabash General Hospital (Mount Carmel, Ill.). Mr. Purvis has served as CEO of Wabash General Hospital for more than 15 years and has been part of Alliant Management Services, which operates the hospital, for 25 years. As CEO, Mr. Purvis oversees 20 physicians at the 25-bed facility, which provides healthcare services for a community of 68,000 people. Before stepping into his CEO role in 2002, Mr. Purvis served as Alliant's regional vice president. Roger Reamer. CEO of Memorial Health Care Systems (Seward, Neb.). Before taking the helm at Memorial Health Care Systems in 2000, Mr. Reamer served as hospital administrator at David City, Neb.-based Butler County Health Care Center and Ainsworth, Neb.-based Brown County Hospital. He's also held managerial roles at several hospitals in Colorado, including Penrose St. Francis Health Services in Colorado Springs. Mr. Reamer served as board chairman of the Nebraska Hospital Association and sat on the American Hospital Association's board of trustees. Dave Ressler. CEO of Aspen (Colo.) Valley Hospital. Mr. Ressler has 35 years of healthcare experience, including 25 years as a hospital administrator. He served as CEO of Aspen Valley Hospital, a 25-bed community hospital, from 2004-13 before moving to Arizona to serve as chief strategy officer and COO of Tucson Medical Center. Mr. Ressler also served as executive director of the management company Community Care Alliance before returning to his CEO position at Aspen Valley Hospital in 2016. Reed Reyman. President of CHI St. Alexius Health Dickinson (N.D.). Mr. Reyman, who started his professional career as a special education teacher and school psychologist, joined CHI St. Alexius Health Dickinson as CEO in 2009. As CEO, Mr. Reyman oversaw CHI St. Alexius Health Dickinson's 2014 move to a new facility, which houses both the 25-bed critical access hospital and its local clinics. Bruce Roesler. CEO of Richland Hospital (Richland Center, Wis.). Before joining Richland Hospital's leadership team in 2015, Mr. Roesler served as president and CEO of Mercy Medical Center-New Hampton in Iowa for eight years. He also acted as president and CEO of Avera Marshall (Minn.) Regional Medical Center for one year. As CEO of Richland Hospital, Mr. Roesler oversees 30 active staff physicians and 300 full-time equivalent employees at the 25-bed critical access hospital and its two rural health clinic locations. George Rohrich. CEO of River's Edge Hospital & Clinic (St. Peter, Minn.). Mr. Rohrich joined River's Edge Hospital & Clinic as CEO in 2013 after a short stint as interim CEO of St. Vincent Hospital in Leadville, Colo. He previously served as president and CEO of The Memorial Hospital of Craig (Colo.), now the Memorial Regional Health Medical Clinic, for seven years. Rob Santilli. CEO of Gunnison (Colo.) Valley Health. Mr. Santilli came to Gunnison Valley Health in 2012 with 27 years of experience under his belt as executive vice president and COO of Media, Pa.-based Riddle Hospital. He holds an MBA in healthcare administration from Temple University in Philadelphia and is a licensed nursing home administrator. Matthew Shahan. CEO of West River Health Services (Hettinger, N.D.). Mr. Shahan became CEO of West River Health Services, which comprises six community clinics, a 20-bed hospital and 16 staff physicians, in April 2016. Prior to his current role at WRHS, he served as director of IT, clinic administrator and head of strategic planning at Glendive (Mont.) Medical Center. Tanya Sharp. President and CEO of Boone County Health Center (Albion, Neb.). Ms. Sharp served as Boone County Health Center's CFO before stepping into the CEO role in 2017. She holds more than 10 years of experience in healthcare administration, previously acting as CEO of a 25-bed hospital and rural health clinic in North Dakota. Ms. Sharp graduated from the Nebraska Hospital Association Leadership Institute in 2015, sits on the National Rural Health Association board, and is an active member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and the Healthcare Financial Management Association. Hank Simpson, MD. CEO of Mayo Clinic Health System-Red Cedar (Menomonie, Wis.). Dr. Simpson took the helm at Mayo Clinic Health System-Red Cedar, which also operates the Free Clinic of the Greater Menomonie Area, in 2004. Along with his role as CEO of Mayo Clinic Health System-Red Cedar, Dr. Simpson serves as vice chief medical officer of Rochester, Minn.-based Mayo Clinic Health System. He is a practicing family medicine physician who earned his medical degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. David Phelps. President and CEO of Fairview Hospital (Great Barrington, Mass.). In 1993, Mr. Phelps became CEO of Berkshire Health Systems and Berkshire Health Care Systems, which include the five-star CMS-rated Fairview Hospital. Mr. Phelps serves on the boards of the Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association and the Massachusetts Council of Community Hospitals. With an MBA from Troy, N.Y.-based Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Mr. Phelps notably served as the former Pittsfield, Mass., mayor's assistant and a special assistant to the chief of protocol for the U.S. State Department before joining Berkshire. Philip Stuart. Administrator and CEO of Tomah (Wis.) Memorial Hospital. Mr. Stuart joined Tomah Memorial Hospital in 1995. Since adding Mr. Stuart to its team, the hospital has completed a $10 million construction and renovation project, opened a $1.5 million facility, and begun work on a new $66 million hospital. In February, Mr. Stuart participated in the first national Rural Prosperity Roundtable led by the USDA Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development. Dawn Trompeter. President of OSF HealthCare Saint Paul Medical Center (Mendota, Ill.). Ms. Trompeter became St. Paul Medical Center's president in January, assuming responsibility for aligning the organization with OSF HealthCare's overall strategy while directing all internal operations. Previously, she served as vice president and CFO for Saint Paul Medical Center and Ottowa, Ill.-based OSF HealthCare Saint Elizabeth Medical Center. Ms. Trompeter helped both organizations improve their HCAHPS results, member engagement and care quality while reducing costs. Allen Van Driel. CEO of Smith County Memorial Hospital (Smith Center, Kan.). Before joining the 25-bed Smith County Memorial Hospital, Mr. Van Driel accrued more than three decades of experience serving as CEO and COO for three Nebraska-based critical access hospitals. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and has held leadership roles in organizations including the American Hospital Association and the Nebraska Hospital Association. Mr. Van Driel served as a linguist in the U.S. Air Force for six years. Jeanie Vieira, RN. CEO of Providence Hood River (Ore.) Memorial Hospital. Ms. Vieira served on Providence Hood River's staff for 25 years before becoming CEO in May 2016. She is entrusted with overseeing the hospital, its 12 clinics, the home health and hospital divisions, and two senior care facilities. A Hood River native, Ms. Vieira was previously Providence Hood River's COO and nursing executive. Harry Weis. CEO of Tahoe Forest Hospital (Truckee, Calif.). After serving as Salinas, Calif.-based Natividad Medical Center's CEO for eight years, Mr. Weis took the helm at Tahoe Forest Health System in December 2015. He leads the system with about four decades of clinical and financial experience, as well as healthcare strategy and acquisition expertise. In January 2018, Mr. Weis was one of two individuals the American Hospital Association appointed to represent six western states on the Council of the AHA Section for Small or Rural Hospitals. Ken Westman. CEO of Barrett Hospital and HealthCare (Dillon, Mont.). Mr. Westman became Barrett Hospital's CEO in June 2011, as the new $30 million hospital licensed for 18 beds was undergoing construction. Under his leadership, Barrett Hospital and HealthCare was named a Top 100 Critical Access Hospital by iVantage Health Analytics and the Chartis Center for Rural Health in 2017. Mr. Westman was previously Bigfork (Minn.) Valley Hospital's COO and nursing home administrator. Todd Willert. President and CEO of Community HealthCare System & St. Marys Manor (Onaga, Kan.). Community HealthCare System in Onaga named Mr. Willert CEO in 2015. He arrived at the position equipped with more than two decades of experience as a hospital CEO, including at Nevada, Iowa-based Story County Medical Center and Albia, Iowa-based Monroe County Hospital and Clinics. With a strong track record of improving financial performance, medical staff recruitment and development, and community involvement, Mr. Willert leads more than 450 employees across seven locations. Richard Willett. CEO of Redington-Fairview General Hospital (Skowhegan, Maine). Mr. Willett became Redington-Fairview General Hospital's CEO in October 1991, after nearly two decades serving the organization in roles such as associate director of operations. With Mr. Willett in charge, the 25-bed hospital opened an emergency department and radiology room in 1993, as well as a 60,000-square-foot medical office building in 2009. Mr. Willett is a past board chair of the Maine Hospital Association. Gerald Worrick. President and CEO of Door County Medical Center (Sturgeon Bay, Wis.). Mr. Worrick has been president and CEO of Door County Medical Center for three decades, overseeing projects including the construction of a two-story inpatient tower in 2010 and the creation of Sturgeon Bay-based North Shore Medical Clinic. The Wisconsin Hospital Association awarded Mr. Worrick its Lifetime Achievement Award in July in recognition of his 45 years of service for WHA, including eight years on the WHA board. Mr. Worrick serves on the board of directors for the Door County Economic Development Corp. Robert Wright. CEO of Newman Regional Health (Emporia, Kan.). Mr. Wright began his tenure as Newman Regional Health's CEO in 2014. He previously served as interim CEO of Williston, Fla.-based Regional General Hospital, as well as the CEO for hospitals in Illinois and Michigan. Mr. Wright is now overseeing a $14.5 million expansion of Newman Regional Health's emergency room, which will grow the space from 5,000 square feet to 15,000 square feet. Greenwich (Conn.) Hospital is shuttering its hospice program amid low volumes and insurance barriers. Greenwich Hospital President Norman Roth told the Greenwich Time the closure was in part a result of declining patient volumes. While the program needs 20 or more patients to fulfill service responsibilities, the hospital only averaged about six patients at any given time. The program also faced pressure from insurance regulations that block New York state insurers from paying for hospice care provided in Connecticut. A new contractor, Miami, Fla.-based Vitas Healthcare, will take over the hospital's end-of-life care services under a transfer agreement. Most of the seven staffers with the hospice program have been relocated to other departments within Greenwich Hospital or Vitas, while one member voluntarily left, according to the report. The Food and Drug Administration completed a surprise inspection of Juul Labs, an e-cigarette producer based in San Francisco, Sept. 28, according to The New York Times. Here are three things to know: 1. FDA officials said Tuesday the agency obtained more than a thousand documents related to Juul's marketing and sales tactics. The agency was especially interested in uncovering more information about whether the company markets toward minors. 2. The inspection comes as FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, MD, has raised concerns about how e-cigarette makers advertise their products with candy-like names and flavors. The FDA confirmed e-cigarette use in the past 30 days among high school students has grown by 75 percent since last year to roughly 3 million, according to the NYT. 3. The FDA said its inspection came after the agency requested research and marketing data from Juul in April. The company's CEO Kevin Burns said Juul forked over 50,000-plus pages of internal documents to the FDA after that request. The FDA said Juul and four other e-cigarette makers now have 60 days to produce plans focused on limiting access to youth users, according to the report. More articles on population health: Sen. Dick Durbin: How 10 Chicago hospitals are improving patient health in 18 neighborhoods Nebraska Medicine, Mass General awarded $3M to pilot disaster medicine plan Healogics joins the epic app orchard To better equip hospitals in the fight against antibiotic resistance, a group of physicians and scientists in Seattle launched a nonprofit organization in September to develop a database of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, the Seattle Times reports. The group, Antibiotic Resistance Monitoring, Analysis and Diagnostics Alliance, or ARMADA, said it wants to "get a grasp on the situation" by building a database that tracks and "fingerprints" bacterial strains. "Right now a patient comes to the doctor with an infection, and the doctor knows a lot about the patient, but doesn't know anything about the bug," said ARMADA founder Evgeni Sokurenko, MD, PhD. "How a patient will react to an infection will be tracked in their medical records, but nothing is being tracked about the bug, even though the bug will repeat itself, and no one will know what it has done in other patients." ARMADA will gather information on how superbugs react to a variety of antibiotics. In giving this data to hospitals and microbiology labs, health practitioners can immediately find the most effective drug for patients. The group has collected data for 30,000 strains so far and aims to increase this number tenfold in the next few years. The project receives funding from the National Institutes of Health and partners with Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle-based Harborview Medical Center and Oakland, Calif.-based Kaiser Permanente. Many hospitals in South Carolina are struggling to implement protection against gun violence due to financial limitations and the accessible nature of their medical buildings, according to The Post and Courier. The Faculty Senate for Charleston-based Medical University of South Carolina passed an official resolution this summer to "affirm that gun violence is a public health problem of the highest priority," according to the report. At the same meeting, a faculty member questioned why MUSC did not have metal detectors at all entrances. While MUSC considered installing metal detectors, the health system scrapped the idea after learning it would cost nearly $1 million to staff each of the 24 entrances with three security personnel every year. Other hospital systems are training staff to use handheld metal detector wands on hospital visitors, finding this method more cost effective than large metal detectors at each door. "Hospitals are the institutions we rely on to keep their doors open to everyone, which makes them more difficult to secure," Schipp Ames, spokesperson for the South Carolina Hospital Association, told The Post and Courier via email. "Because healthcare campuses have become more vast, hospitals now have more access and entry points to monitor and protect." More articles on clinical leadership and infection control: Here are 12 key notes from orthopedic and spine device companies in the past week. Medacta International appointed Francesco Siccardi as CEO, effective Nov. 1. About a month after its billion-dollar acquisition of K2M, Stryker continues to make smaller acquisitions to complement its product portfolio. The FDA granted Zimmer Biomet's request to extend its Mobi-C Cervical Disc labeling to include seven-year clinical results. On Sept. 28, the Securities and Exchange Commission charged Stryker with violating the books and records and internal accounting controls provisions for the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. TeDan Surgical Innovations and Lattus Spine entered into an exclusive partnership with 4Web Medical to market 4Web's Extreme Lateral Access platform. DePuy Synthes, a Johnson & Johnson company, launched Sentio MMG, a digital mechanomyography platform designed to assess nerve status. Arvind Dubey, MD, implanted his 1,000th level of Centinel Spine's STALIF C-Ti Anterior Cervical Integrated Interbody device at the Royal Hobart Hospital in Tasmania, Australia. Stryker received FDA 510(k) clearance for its SpineJack Implantable Fracture Reduction System. NuVasive enrolled the first patients in its study comparing lateral lumbar interbody fusion outcomes with traditional smooth PEEK intervertebral spacers and two NuVasive Advanced Materials Science portfolio implants. SeaSpine released the Regatta Lateral System, which features NanoMetalene technology. Vertos Medical enrolled the first patient into a nationwide study of its mild procedure, a minimally invasive lumbar spinal stenosis treatment. Zeiss Meditec launched the Tivato 700 for minimally invasive spine surgery at the North American Spine Society Annual Meeting in Los Angeles, Sept. 26-29. The jury was seated Sept. 24 for the latest case against fugitive spine surgeon Atiq Durrani, MD, and Cincinnati-based Children's Hospital Medical Center, according to WLWT. The eight jurors and four alternatives are expected to hear two weeks of testimony from as many as a dozen witnesses. This latest case concerns a child with spina bifida. It is also the first Dr. Durrani case with a connection to Children's Hospital Medical Center. Prosecutors in the civil suit are arguing Dr. Durrani unnecessarily performed spine surgery on a now-14-year-old patient. Dr. Durrani performed spine surgery on the patient more than 12 years ago. The operation was unsuccessful and the patient was left paralyzed. Dr. Durrani is expected to appear for a video deposition. The spine surgeon fled the country to avoid criminal charges, authorities allege. Both Dr. Durrani and Children's Hospital Medical Center deny any wrongdoing. This lawsuit follows the settlement between Cincinnati-based West Chester Hospital and 350 former Dr. Durrani patients. The settlement details were not disclosed. Family handout photo of a young Captain F. J. Roberts, as a newspaper inspired by the historic Wipers Times created by First World War soldiers Captain FJ Roberts and Lieutenant JH Pearson in 1916, has been recreated to mark the centenary of the war. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Monday August 4, 2014. The Flanders Fields Post newspaper is published as a one-off today and distributed in London, Glasgow and Manchester, to commemorate 100 years since Britain joined the First World War. See PA story HISTORY Centenary Newspaper. Photo credit should read: Family Handout/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. Horror of the trenches: many from here made the ultimate sacrifice in the First World War The Winchester Whisperer, a journal handwritten on toilet paper that was circulated by conscientious objectors who were imprisoned for their beliefs during the First World War. (Religious Society of Friends in Britain/BBC/PA) Research suggests most people in the UK do not realise the First World War extended beyond Europe Records show newspapers urged women to send 'small comforts' like cigarettes and warm clothes to troops in the trenches Family handout photo of Capatain FJ Roberts (right) with family (L-R) Bert, Will, Nell and Fred Roberts, (front) dad Henry and mom Mary Roberts in 1900, as a newspaper inspired by the historic Wipers Times created by First World War soldiers Captain FJ Roberts and Lieutenant JH Pearson in 1916, has been recreated to mark the centenary of the war. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Monday August 4, 2014. The Flanders Fields Post newspaper is published as a one-off today and distributed in London, Glasgow and Manchester, to commemorate 100 years since Britain joined the First World War. See PA story HISTORY Centenary Newspaper. Photo credit should read: Family Handout/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. File photo dated 20/08/14 of the scene outside the Enlisting Office in Thogmorton Street, London, at the beginning of the First World War, as royalty, political leaders and families of the fallen will unite in Belgium and the UK today in marking 100 years since Britain entered the First World War. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Monday August 4, 2014. At 11pm on August 4, 1914, Britain declared war on Germany, ushering in four years of darkness, despair and appalling tragedy. See PA story HISTORY Centenary. Photo credit should read: PA Wire A British soldier uses a periscope device in a First World War fire trench, as it was revealed a system of practice trenches have been found in Hampshire Handout photo issued by London Transport Museum of Ole Bill, a 1911 B-type bus No. B43 flanked by standard bearers in the Armistice Day parade 1920 as wreaths are being laid at bus stations and garages across London in memory of the transport workers who died in the First World War. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Monday August 4, 2014. See PA story HISTORY Centenary Transport. Photo credit should read: London Transport Museum/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. File photo dated 17/08/14 of British soldiers from the Royal Welch Fusiliers and the Cheshire Regiment in a Belgian town on their way to Mons as part of the British Expeditionary Force, as royalty, political leaders and families of the fallen will unite in Belgium and the UK today in marking 100 years since Britain entered the First World War. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Monday August 4, 2014. At 11pm on August 4, 1914, Britain declared war on Germany, ushering in four years of darkness, despair and appalling tragedy. See PA story HISTORY Centenary. Photo credit should read: PA Wire 16-year-old Lee Dunion re-enacts the conditions in the trenches as a soldier in Thiepval Woods during the First World War Letters home from the Western Front in the First World War gave a snapshot of the horrendous conditions suffered by Ulster soldiers in the trenches Undated family handout photo of Captain F. J. Roberts with his division, as a newspaper inspired by the historic Wipers Times created by First World War soldiers Captain FJ Roberts and Lieutenant JH Pearson in 1916, has been recreated to mark the centenary of the war. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Monday August 4, 2014. The Flanders Fields Post newspaper is published as a one-off today and distributed in London, Glasgow and Manchester, to commemorate 100 years since Britain joined the First World War. See PA story HISTORY Centenary Newspaper. Photo credit should read: Family Handout/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. Family handout photo of Captain F. J. Roberts with his son Bill Roberts in 1914, as a newspaper inspired by the historic Wipers Times created by First World War soldiers Captain FJ Roberts and Lieutenant JH Pearson in 1916, has been recreated to mark the centenary of the war. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Monday August 4, 2014. The Flanders Fields Post newspaper is published as a one-off today and distributed in London, Glasgow and Manchester, to commemorate 100 years since Britain joined the First World War. See PA story HISTORY Centenary Newspaper. Photo credit should read: Family Handout/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. The wills of soldiers who died during the First World War will be made available online File photo dated 04/08/14 of the Grenadier Guards being watched by a crowd as they leave Wellington Barracks in London for active service in France at the beginning of World War I, as royalty, political leaders and families of the fallen will unite in Belgium and the UK today in marking 100 years since Britain entered the First World War. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Monday August 4, 2014. At 11pm on August 4, 1914, Britain declared war on Germany, ushering in four years of darkness, despair and appalling tragedy. See PA story HISTORY Centenary. Photo credit should read: PA Wire Undated handout photo of the front page of the Flanders Fields Post, a newspaper inspired by the historic Wipers Times created by First World War soldiers Captain FJ Roberts and Lieutenant JH Pearson in 1916, which has been recreated to mark the centenary of the war. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Monday August 4, 2014. The Flanders Fields Post newspaper is published as a one-off today and distributed in London, Glasgow and Manchester, to commemorate 100 years since Britain joined the First World War. See PA story HISTORY Centenary Newspaper. Photo credit should read: Handout/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. The will of Private John Fleetwood, grandfather of Mick Fleetwood, who died during the First World War British infantrymen occupy a shallow trench in a ruined landscape before an advance during the Battle of the Somme Awarded the Victoria Cross for services in the Great War: Edmund De Wind (top left) James Somers (top right) Captain JA Sinton (centre) J Duffy (bottom Left) Robert Quigg ( bottom right) The return of British pow's, from the Great war, met on arrival at London by frienfs and family with refreshments. German troops and dogs prepared for the threat of 'chemical warefare' during the Great War, with gas masks. Posters and Memorabilia at the launch of the National Library's World War One Family History Roadshow which takes place between 10am and 7pm on Wednesday March 21st next. Pic Steve Humphreys 15th March 2012. First World War image of a British soldier using periscope to look over rim of trench. The soldier also exhibits other features of trench hardware such as water-bottle and Lee Enfield rifle. There were various models of periscope, some improvised by the men themselves. (Hogg, A. R) National Museums Northern Ireland Collection Ulster Museum 'Everyone should do his bit. Enlist now' - Roberts & Leete Ltd. - First World War recruitment poster; 'Everyone should do his bit. Enlist now.' Poster with boy scout standing musing in front of a wall covered in recruitment posters. Published by the Parliamentary Recruiting Committee London No.121 Original artwork by Baron Low Collection Ulster Museum First World War image of tank and troops. Tanks were first used in September 1916, at Delville Wood. There were over 6,000 tanks in allied possession by the end of the war whereas the Germans did not greatly make or use them. (Hogg, A. R) National Museums Northern Ireland Collection Ulster Museum First World War image of British soldiers grouping in battlefield. The road is long which soldiers marched to and from the front were known to enemy artillery which by the end of the war was becoming more and more accurate in its fire. Note the posts which mark the line of the road, all too easily spotted by air reconnaissance (Hogg, A. R) National Museums Northern Ireland Collection Ulster Museum First World War image of British soldiers wearing capes carrying shovels, road-building party, along the Western Front, probably wet and muddy conditions of Flanders, 1917. The Irish soldier and poet Francis Ledwidge was killed in just such a group as this at eHellfire Corneri at Ypres in 1917. First World War image of a British first aid team treating wounded soldier. There are three orderlies, treating a soldiers treating a man on a stretcher with head and shoulder injuries. The location would appear to be littered with shells and shell boxes and there is a building which has been damaged by artillery fire or an explosion. (Hogg, A. R) National Museums Northern Ireland Collection Ulster Museum First World War image of a British soldier at machine gun post. Machine gun fire was sometimes effective against low-flying German planes. Note the bolt-holes for the gunner to hide during bombardment, the trench spike against the skyline and the horn of what may well be a gas-alarm. (Hogg, A. R) National Museums Northern Ireland Collection Ulster Museum First World War image of British soldiers marching over battlefield. The devastation caused by repeated shellfire over four years left some parts of the Western Front and its hinterland a total ruin. (Hogg, A. R) Photograph National Museums Northern Ireland Collection Ulster Museum Theres room for you. Enlist to-day - W.M. Strain & Sons Ltd. - First World War recruitment poster; 'Theres room for you. Enlist to-day.' froman original drawing by W.A. Fry. Poster shows a cheery scene of soldiers going off to war by train. Published by the Parliamentary Recruiting Committee, London; poster no.122 Collection Ulster Museum First World War image showing British soldiers washing in water held in shell hole, which appears to be the location for several British graves as indicated by the wooden crosses surrounding the crater, where the men may well have perished in an earlier explosion. (Hogg, A. R) National Museums Northern Ireland Collection Ulster Museum First World War image showing soldiers in snow with tanks on backs. The men may be carrying some kind of disinfectant or else a de-icing fluid as it is visibly a cold winteris day. The item on the cart looms rather like the flue of a fire or heater, indicating that the men may well be carrying hot water. (Hogg, A. R ) National Museums Northern Ireland Collection Ulster Museum Women in Britain say go! - Hill, Siffken and Co (LPA Ltd) - First World War Recruitment poster; 'Women in Britain say Go!' This poster, produced by E V Kealey, in 1915 for the First World War British Army Recruitment Campaign shows an image (by artist Ernest Ibbetson) of mother and children at open window watching troops march off to war. which reflects the growing engagement of middle-class women in public life, civic and recruitment campaigns Parliamentary Recruiting Committee Poster no.75. Original accession card states it is Parliamentary Recruiting poster No.72 Collection Ulster Museum First World War image of a British soldier pulling colleague from rubble. It is unlikely that the helped soldier would look as cheerful as he does or that the helper would pull the buried and probably injured man in so unprofessional a way if he had been lying beneath the weight of soil and rubble after an explosion. It is more likely that the man has slipped and fallen into this position while examining damage, the aftermath of which is depicted here. (Hogg, A. R ) National Museums Northern Ireland Collection Ulster Museum Rifleman Jackson Clarke of the Royal Irish Rifles (circled) marching off to war. He survived the Great War, remaining in the army until 1931. Pic from Stephen Kerr United We Stand - Postcard showing uniformed men representing Britain, Irish National Volunteers and Ulster Volunteers flanking a sailor with a sword in one hand and a gun in the other presented as united on the outbreak of war. The verse reads 'Old discords have sunk to oblivion, For the honour of Britain they stand, In Unity shoulder to shoulder, In defence of the old homeland.' Collection Ulster Museum Corporal Adolf Hitler, right with two other soldiers and a dog during his stay in a military hospital, WWI, Pasewalk, Pomerania. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images) World War One: Pictures of the horror, the heroism and the suffering and slaughter that changed to the world forever Close The Battle of the Somme took place near the Somme River in France, and lasted from July 1, 1916, to November 18 that year. It saw the biggest loss of soldiers' lives in a single day of fighting ever recorded by the British army. The battle was between the British and French, on one side, and the German Empire, on the other, and it symbolised the horrors of the First World War. With both sides engaged in trench warfare with little movement, the British and French were organising a major attack at the Somme,determined to break the stalemate. When the Germans went on the offensive and attacked the French at the Battle of Verdun in the east of Paris, the British attack at the Somme was brought forward in the hope the Germans would move some of their men away from Verdun. At the Battle of the Somme, there was a week-long artillery bombardment of the German lines, which saw the British firing more than 1.6m shells. The reason behind all that artillery was to destroy the German trenches and to try and kill most of the German soldiers. After all the firing, British and French soldiers came out of their trenches and walked towards the German lines, believing they would not face much opposition. German soldiers, though, had been hiding in special shelters and had waited underground for a week until the shelling had finished, then came out to fire machine guns at the advancing Allied troops. Irish, English, Scottish and Welsh soldiers were gunned down, along with French, Australians and South Africans. One of the few units to meet their objectives that day was the 36th Ulster Division, which showed remarkable bravery and sacrifice and which is forever remembered by the people of Northern Ireland. The 36th Ulster Division took a German fortification called the Schwaben Redoubt before a lack of re-enforcements forced them to retreat. Expand Close First World War image of a British soldier pulling colleague from rubble. It is unlikely that the helped soldier would look as cheerful as he does or that the helper would pull the buried and probably injured man in so unprofessional a way if he had been lying beneath the weight of soil and rubble after an explosion. It is more likely that the man has slipped and fallen into this position while examining damage, the aftermath of which is depicted here. (Hogg, A. R ) National Museums Northern Ireland Collection Ulster Museum / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp First World War image of a British soldier pulling colleague from rubble. It is unlikely that the helped soldier would look as cheerful as he does or that the helper would pull the buried and probably injured man in so unprofessional a way if he had been lying beneath the weight of soil and rubble after an explosion. It is more likely that the man has slipped and fallen into this position while examining damage, the aftermath of which is depicted here. (Hogg, A. R ) National Museums Northern Ireland Collection Ulster Museum The division was relieved on July 2, having suffered more than 5,000 casualties - with more than 2,000 of those killed. Several Victoria Crosses were awarded to the Ulster Division for their courage. The mainly Catholic 16th Irish Division were separated from their comrades in the 36th Ulster Division by only a few months. On September 3, another great British offensive went in. The men of the 16th Division fought with the same courage as the 36th Division. Within 10 days the division had lost half of its 11,000 men through death or injury. Two Victoria Crosses were awarded, one to a private in the Connaught Rangers and one to a young officer in the Leinsters. Expand Close Troops at the Battle of the Somme / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Troops at the Battle of the Somme The Battle of the Somme ended with the British having advanced only five miles. It is thought the British suffered 420,000 casualties, including nearly 60,000, on the first day alone. The French lost 200,000 men and the Germans nearly 500,000. Business advisory firm BDO Northern Ireland has announced it has taken on 11 trainees. The new arrivals are working across the business in its audit, tax and business advisory departments, supporting senior staff in professional services to more than 1,000 companies. Senior partner Nigel Harra said: "We strive for excellence in every area of the business and were impressed by the calibre and ambition of all the candidates and those who have gained roles with us. The 11 new additions will have the chance to learn from some of the very best professionals and work with many of the most interesting organisations in Northern Ireland." BDO said it offers its trainees on-the-job training, access to senior management and exposure to a wide variety of clients. It has around 170 staff in Belfast. The parent company of Abbey Insurance is now under new ownership after a US equity firm completed a deal to acquire a majority share in the business. Prestige Insurance Holdings, based in Carrickfergus, yesterday finalised the deal with Capital Z Partners Management. Capital Z now has a controlling 65% stake in Prestige, although the existing management team is to remain in place. Prestige employs around 519 people here and operates 21 branches of Abbey Insurance. Financial statements for 2017 reveal group turnover of 43.7m and pre-tax profits of 1.6m. Two years ago Abbey acquired Open and Direct Insurance Services, making it the biggest independent personal lines insurance brokerage in Northern Ireland. Trevor Shaw, Prestige Insurance Holdings Group chief executive, said: "I am delighted to welcome Capital Z as our majority shareholders. They are long term partners who bring a great deal of knowledge of our sector, along with funds for acquisitions and growth. "This is a very positive move for our staff, customers and insurance suppliers." Jonathan Kelly, partner at Capital Z, said: "The Prestige Group represents a great insurance platform for us, having strong distribution, particularly in Northern Ireland, with niche underwriting positions in the home and car markets, together with its own IT platform. "We look forward to working with Trevor Shaw and his team to help it fulfil its potential." As part of the deal, Prestige founder George Storey will retire as chairman although he will remain on the board as a non-executive director. Phil Bunker, formerly managing director of LV Broker and an executive director of Churchill, joins as non-executive chairman. Mr Storey said: "I am incredibly proud to have built a business over 45 years which has attracted such high quality investment from an investor which sees its strength and potential. "I am confident to leave the group in the hands of a very capable management team and excellent staff. "I look forward to supporting the new owners in a non-executive role in the future and I wish them every continuing success," he added. The deal has been approved by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Central Bank of Ireland. Capital Z is the latest US operator to enter the market here. In 2011 Boston-based Liberty Mutual Group acquired Quinn Insurance and the US giant went on to buy Newtownards-based Hughes Insurance in 2014. Infiniti has refreshed its QX30 model, with new design, model grades and technology adding further flair to this premium active crossover. What's new? Infiniti, the premium brand with the brains and clout of Nissan behind it, refreshed the QX30 small SUV this year. The QX30 battles in the highly competitive premium crossover market against the likes of BMW, Mercedes and Jaguar. Launched in 2016, it is based on the Q30 small saloon, offering increased ride height and other small SUV credentials. Not unlike the Mercedes GLA, this is an appealing small package that distinguishes itself from its Q30 sibling with redesigned bumpers front and rear, new side sills, and satin chrome-plated inserts with metallic finish in the external body work. It's assembled in Nissan's Sunderland plant, with engines assembled in Germany. New for 2018 is a shake-up of the grade structure, and additional goodies aimed at luring people interested in small premium SUVs. The QX30, says Infiniti, holds a unique position in the segment, bridging the gap between premium compact rivals and larger crossover models. Its crossover-style versatility extends from unique design appeal and a wide range of comfort, convenience, safety and dynamic features, including intelligent all-wheel drive. New 2018 model grades For 2018, Infiniti upgraded the specs of both the Q30 and QX30 for 2018 along with the introduction of a new cross product global grading structure, featuring the names of Pure, Luxe and Sport. The QX30 is currently available only in Luxe and Luxe Tech variants. Both grades offer similar engine choices, along with InTouch navigation, 18" alloy wheels, dual rectangular chrome exhaust finishers and lane departure warning as standard features. The new variants provide an upgraded technology experience with DAB radio, intelligent cruise control and blind spot warning. Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection helps make it very easy to park and if that is not enough then auto park uses its twelve sensors to measure the dimensions of the parking spot and help steer the vehicle into it; the driver only needs to apply the accelerator and brakes. With the new QX30 2018n models, you also get design updates, with optional 19" resurfaced, 5 double spokes light alloy wheels, attributing to a more commanding look. Looks and design The 2018 changes were light refreshes and don't really change much about the QX30's looks both outside and in. The combination of a low-slung roof-line, elevated stance and crossover appearance creates a striking visual impact and a 'go-anywhere' attitude. The QX30 stands 30mm higher than the Q30 Premium, and 45mm higher than Q30 Sport, with satin chrome roof rails fitted as standard for a more purposeful form and greater functionality. In addition, the QX30's wheel arch cladding is 5mm wider than that on the Q30, adding to the premium active crossover's purposeful appearance. The double-arch grille with three-dimensional mesh, for example, has been developed from its application on the Q30, drawing a flowing, fluid link to the headlamps for a more organic shape. The elevated dimensions are designed to make for a confident and relaxing drive. An overall height of 1,530mm (with standard roof rails) helps improve forward visibility over its rivals, aided by a slim A-pillar design, while the elevated ride allows for a higher hip point (1,324mm), improving ease of getting in and out. Other exterior details include newly-designed front and rear bumpers and grained side sills for a rugged look, as well as bodywork finished with satin chrome-plated inserts for a premium and high quality metallic finish. Inside the cabin What Infiniti calls "asymmetric surfaces" feature wave shapes and dynamic lines that twist apart and flow away from the driver lending an 'in-motion' feel when natural light moves over the highly-sculpted lines and contrasting materials in the cabin. A custom-designed QX30 trim delivers a personalised, self-expressive interior design. The standard interior is finished in high quality black cloth, while optional black or beige leather delivers an even more premium finish. There's an advanced seat design, which makes use of Infiniti's advanced 'spinal support' research. The seat backs have been engineered to match the curvature of the spine, providing consistent spinal support by more equally distributing load across the seat to minimise pressure on back muscles. Drivetrain and suspension The manufacturer says the QX30 is engineered to deliver "a confidence-inspiring, dynamic driving experience", aided by intelligent all-wheel drive. Compared to Q30, the QX30's chassis has been adapted with its own unique settings for a comfortable ride and confident handling in spite of its elevated ride height and ground clearance. Its springs and rear anti-roll bar are stiffer, continuing the engineers' efforts to ensure a flat ride. The QX30 comes equipped with an intelligent all-wheel drive system. The drivetrain is able to send up to 50% of the engine's power and torque to the rear axle to maintain traction on slippery surfaces and in inclement weather, enhancing a feeling of control and confidence when driving. For example, if a wheel slip is detected by sensors, braking is applied to the slipping wheel, while torque is sent to the gripping wheel for additional stability. Another standard feature is a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission system. The dual-clutch intelligently pre-selects gears so the next shift is always ready to go, while manual mode lets the driver control gear changes when desired. Under the bonnet you'll find the same engine unit in both the Luxe and Sport models, a four-cylinder diesel 2.2l turbocharged I4 diesel engine. Combined fuel consumption is give as 52.3 miles, and CO2 emissions are 143g/km. Safety tech Infiniti says it aims make the QX30 one of the safest cars in its class. There's an Around View Monitor with moving object detection and automatic parking assistance that reportedly makes the QX30 the easiest car to park in its segment. A special metal plating method allows the radar waves of the Intelligent Cruise Control to pass through the Infiniti badge without disrupting the car's appearance with unseemly radar units. Other safety features include Vehicle Dynamic Control, which can apply individual brakes to intuitively correct oversteer or understeer, Traction Control to sense wheel spin and reduce engine output, an Advanced Air Bag System with driver's knee air bag, front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags, and roof-mounted curtain supplemental, plus tyre pressure monitoring. There's also a host of other safety tech like blind spot warning, lane departure alert and forward emergency braking. Who would choose one? Drivers wanting a premium touch for their small SUV/crossover should consider the QX30. It's slick, looks great, and has a quality cabin. Certainly anyone bored with the usual German suspects might be attracted by its cool design and premium features. Stage presence: Patrick OReilly in the Crescent Arts Centre which will host his new play As an actor, Patrick O'Reilly (37) from Belfast is used to putting on a front but he admits even he couldn't cover up the harsh reality of depression when it struck him several years ago. "I have a background in community theatre," explains Patrick, artistic director with Tinderbox theatre company. "I moved to Belfast from Cavan in 2000 to study at the Met. Then I went to Brighton to study for my degree before coming back to Belfast and becoming an actor with various theatre companies. "I also studied at the renowned theatre school Le Coq in Paris before coming back to Belfast again. I always found myself being drawn to Belfast, the people and the work," he recalls. However, Patrick reveals that despite his growing acclaim in the theatre world, by 2011 he was battling dark demons. "I was overcome with depression and nothing would lift it," he explains. "I suffered acute anxiety and had no self worth or self esteem. I felt exhausted all the time and the anxiety was overwhelming." After about six months of suffering, Patrick admits his thoughts turned to suicide as a way out. "It just took over my whole life and I started to think about ending it all," he says with brutal and raw honesty. "It just became part of my life that I was existing through the darkness." When the thoughts of suicide started to take over his life, Patrick decided it was time to reach out and talk to someone and he got counselling through the NHS. Expand Close Stage presence: Patrick OReilly in the Crescent Arts Centre which will host his new play Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Stage presence: Patrick OReilly in the Crescent Arts Centre which will host his new play "Mental health has such a stigma attached to it, but I have to say when I actually reached out and asked for help the support network on the NHS was amazing," he says. It was while he was waiting for help and support that the seeds of his latest work began to be sown. "I felt like the invisible man and that I was falling to pieces," Patrick says. "I started to think about actually falling to pieces and how everyone has cracks and invisible scars which they carry around. How different would it be if we could see the cracks and know what was going on? "Would people be more understanding and would the stigma be less if they could visually see the wounds? Would we realise that everyone has highs and lows in life? This is like Japanese Kintsugi - the art of fixing broken and cracked vases by putting gold in between the cracks - making it more beautiful than it was to begin with. "I decided there was a lot of positivity and that if you could come out the other side of deep despair, there was a lot to be celebrated." Patrick began writing a short story based on his experiences - The Man Who Fell To Pieces - and then started imagining what it would look like visually as a play. "When I joined Tinderbox in 2016 we decided to make it into a play and explore the whole journey. "I used the arts and writing and theatre work to empower me and share my story. I wanted to bring mental health to the forefront of people's minds and to get people talking about it and sharing their experiences. "Sadly, there is such an epidemic of suicide here in Northern Ireland - and while the arts aren't a cure, we can reach out to more people through mediums such as music, dance, theatre, sculpture and workshops and put the arts back into the mainstream. "I found when I was concentrating on a workshop or working on a piece of work for an hour or so I didn't have time for the dark thoughts. It is like exercise in a way. It promotes better mental health. "I really want to give people back a sense of hope and that art can be a beautiful way to explore who you are." Patrick explains that The Man Who Fell To Pieces tells the story of John, whose life literally falls to pieces. "It explores the ripple effects and how those around him are effected. His girlfriend doesn't know what to do so she ends up carrying his pieces around in a bag and looking after him together with his mother," adds Patrick, who doesn't want to give away too much of the plot of the play for new audiences. The play received overwhelming responses from audiences earlier this year when it premiered as part of Edgefest at The Mac in collaboration with Prime Cut Productions in February. Expand Close Play time: The Man who Fell to Pieces stars Shaun Blaney, Roisin Gallagher, Maria Connolly and Patrick Buchanan / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Play time: The Man who Fell to Pieces stars Shaun Blaney, Roisin Gallagher, Maria Connolly and Patrick Buchanan The company also took it out into the community to schools, community groups and even into prisons. "We wanted to bring it into areas where people normally wouldn't have access to theatre and get conversations going," explains Patrick. "It was really well received in the prisons, where we had some really engaging workshops afterwards and got people talking about and exploring mental health. "It was really worth doing and something I want to do more of as I feel theatre should be inclusive to all. "People really started opening up and speaking out about the pressures of life and how it can be overwhelming at times," he adds. "I'm delighted now to be given the opportunity to bring the play to The Crescent. I am very proud of what we have achieved. The play celebrates the power of the arts and its opportunity to empower people. It shows that there is hope out there. "We are also in the process of developing a video game with the Lighthouse charity, which is aimed at helping young people deal with mental health issues and encouraging them to talk about it." Gilly Campbell, who is the arts development officer for drama and dance at the Arts Council, adds: "The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is delighted to support this new production from Tinderbox through National Lottery and public funding. "The Man Who Fell To Pieces is a powerful drama which truly demonstrates the value of the arts in exploring challenging issues and I would encourage everyone to go along and see it." And Roger Courtney, director of The Crescent, says: "Having seen the show earlier this year, I am immensely proud to collaborate with Tinderbox to bring this play to The Crescent and to play our part in helping to reduce the stigma attached to mental health in Northern Ireland. "If you missed out on seeing this play at The Mac in February, we strongly recommend you don't miss the opportunity to see it at The Crescent. "We guarantee that you will be moved and inspired by this incredible production." The impact of Brexit could hamper the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Services ability to respond to emergencies, the organisation has warned. The service fears the financial implications from the UK exiting the EU could result in reduced operational cover and create delays in responding to incidents negatively impacting on both public and firefighter safety. Read More The potential Brexit financial impact was deemed critical in an internal NIFRS risk assessment made public today under a Freedom of Information request. Reasons outlined include price fluctuations between sterling and the euro which it estimates could be mean an increase in operational costs of 20% as well as tariffs imposed on imported goods from the EU, where NIFRS says it is currently relies on to obtain its fleet vehicles. This could also result in disrupted supply chains and the possibility of delays in buying equipment and supplies, revealed the service. Consequently this could adversely affect the organisations budget, forcing it to make cuts that may adversely affect its delivery of core organisational objectives. To mitigate against this, NIFRS is planning to complete large purchases such as new fleet additions before March 29, 2019 as well continuing to monitor the possible financial impact. The Brexit warning comes as number of accidental house fires across Northern Ireland increased by 8.5% over the past year from 896 during 2017/18 compared to 824 in 2016/17 according to latest NIFRS figures revealed on Monday. Elsewhere, Northern Ireland firefighters responding to calls across the border could also be negatively affected by Brexit with counties Donegal and Louth singled out as being particularly at risk of losing support from Northern Ireland. This could occur from day one under post-Brexit UK, the risk assessment warns although it was categorised as less serious than the financial impact bringing to an abrupt end to an agreement between the NIFRS and its Republic counterpart which it stressed, could potentially suffer more. Donegal Fire Service was highlighted as relying more heavily on cross-border support to provide emergency responses, the risk assessment noted. Labour MP, Owen Smith a leading supporter of the Peoples Vote campaign, which is calling for a public vote on the final Brexit deal, if one is struck between the UK and the RU said the situation facing the NIFRS illustrated how the damaging impact of Brexit goes beyond the political sphere. The threat to the people of Northern Ireland from the Brexit mess is not limited to the damage it will do to the peace process, said the former shadow secretary for NI, who obtained the FoI information from the NIFS. Like everywhere else in the UK, Northern Irelands public services could be dealt a devastating blow by Brexit and that is one of the reasons why momentum behind the demand for a Peoples Vote is growing all the time. He stressed the findings of the risk assessment should compel the public here to back the Peoples Vote campaign rather than rely on local politicians distracted by the constitutional question. Too many politicians in Northern Ireland are treating Brexit as an opportunity to play the old sectarian games, argued Mr Smith. That is why it is time the people took back control of this process and demanded a Peoples Vote on the final Brexit deal. Nationalist or unionist, Leave or Remain nobody in Northern Ireland voted to put their life at risk from fire. It is irresponsible for so-called political leaders to prefer to argue about the constitution than to act to keep people safe. In response, a NIFRS Spokesperson said it was consulting with the Department of Health to identify any potential impacts (of Brexit) on service delivery provision and will implement appropriate business continuity measures as necessary. NIFRS is also engaging with the Republic of Ireland Border Fire Services on any potential impacts the EU exit might have on existing cross-border arrangements, they added. DUP leader Arlene Foster has said her party's red line against any Brexit deal that treats Northern Ireland differently from the rest of the UK is "blood red". Asked if her MPs may vote down a Brexit deal that treats Northern Ireland differently, Mrs Foster told the BBC: "We don't want to be in that position. This is too important to be playing around with things because this is the union- this is what brought me in to politics. It's very important for us that we get this right." Read More Asked how red her red lines are, the DUP leader replied: "The red line is blood red, it's very red." Mrs Foster also refused to rule out voting with Jeremy Corbyn in order to defeat any plan which involved Northern Ireland being carved off the UK by the European Union. The border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland is the last major sticking point in Brexit talks, with both sides trying to work out how to monitor and regulate trade over the border. The DUP has said it will not accept a border down the Irish sea. The DUP's 10 MP's currently prop up Theresa May's Conservative government. The heartbroken family of a Co Antrim schoolboy who died of heart failure have paid tribute to the fun-loving eight-year-old. Mark Lynn, who fronted a number of British Heart Foundation campaigns and raised thousands of pounds for the charity in his short life, was born with a complex heart condition and spent much of his life in hospital. The youngster from Ballymena had been assessed as unsuitable for a heart transplant and was taken to Birmingham for specialist treatment, but doctors there were unable to save him. His devastated parents, Donna and Geoff, remained in Birmingham last night preparing to bring their precious son's remains back to Northern Ireland. Mark's brother, Geoff, said he was stunned when he received a telephone call last Thursday night to tell him what had happened. He said: "Words will never describe how I feel at the loss of him - heartbroken is an understatement. He was an absolute legend to me and a warrior. "He has battled hospitals all his life, but unfortunately this time it wasn't to be." He added: "He was an everyday young fella, he loved his dance music and girls and always had a smile on his face no matter what. "He was always up to mischief and pulling jokes on people, he loved a bit of fun. He had such a big impact on people's lives." The tragedy happened as Mark, who had his first operation when just four weeks old, prepared to travel to London for the British Foundation's UK-wide Heart Hero Awards this weekend. He was named as Young Heart Hero in the Northern Ireland awards at Belfast City Hall last year and had been shortlisted for the UK-wide award this year. Orla Clarke, the charity's fundraising manager in Northern Ireland, said: "All of us here are heartbroken to learn about Mark's death." She said Mark and his family have inspired everyone at the charity with their bravery. "He was full of joy and fun and even though he had undergone numerous surgeries and was battling his own heart condition, he wanted to help other children like him by raising money," she said. "He has held fun days in his school, coffee mornings and ballots to raise money for congenital heart disease research. "In February this year he was guest of honour at the opening of our new Ballymena charity shop and cut the ribbon on the store. We were overwhelmed by his enthusiasm and passion to help other children in the face of his own illness." She said the charity's Northern Ireland team had been proud and excited at the prospect of taking Mark and his family to London this weekend where they would have seen the impact he has made. "It's heart-breaking that he won't be there, but Mark has achieved more in his short years than some of us do in a lifetime and he leaves a lasting legacy that will stay with me and all our team in Belfast forever," she added. Meanwhile, a book of condolence has been set up at Ballykeel Primary School, where Mark was in primary five. His principal, Sandra Sheeran, said: "Mark has been with us from nursery and was a much loved pupil. Despite living with a very serious heart condition, he was bright, happy and had a fantastic sense of humour. "He raised a lot of money for the British Heart Foundation and the Children's Heartbeat Trust, and we were so proud of him when he won the Young Heart Hero Award last year. "The whole school community is deeply upset that he is no longer with us. We all have so many wonderful memories to treasure, and he will always have a special place in our hearts. "Our deepest sympathy goes out to his mummy Donna, his daddy Geoff, his three brothers Geoff, Ryan and Jordan, and the wider family circle." Mark's parents had no idea their son had a heart condition until he was born. He was diagnosed with a hole in the heart when just a few days old. He was subsequently diagnosed with pulmonary stenosis - a condition where the pulmonary valve is very narrow and the muscle of the right ventricle must work harder to pump blood through the valve. When he was just three weeks old, his family were told Mark faced open heart surgery to survive and he was transferred to the Birmingham Children's Hospital by air ambulance. The family of tragic Caragh Walsh heard the 13-week-old child struggling for breath as the 999 phone call made by her father was played at her inquest yesterday. The baby's family, including mother Tammie-Louise Walsh, broke down in tears and comforted one another during the second day of the hearing. Caragh was found unresponsive in her home in west Belfast in February 2014 by Christopher O'Neill, her father, who was acquitted of her murder last year. The call lasted several minutes, with harrowing descriptions of baby Caragh's appearance heard by the court, such as "going pale" while "struggling for breath". Medical staff who tended to Caragh at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, also gave evidence. Emergency services were called to the scene, a flat in Twinbrook, on February 5, 2014. When emergency centre staff answered the phone, Mr O'Neill was sobbing heavily and had to be asked to slow down by emergency personnel. Mr O'Neill said: "My wee 13-week-old daughter isn't breathing", later adding, "you have to understand, I'm so sorry." As the recording of the call progressed, the distraught mother put her head between her knees while other devastated family members soon followed. Sporadic noises from the baby could be heard clearly, sparking further anguish for the family. Dr Julie-Ann Maney, who was recalled to the witness box after giving evidence on Monday, explained that it appeared Caragh had "respiratory difficulty" and was "breathing slowly". Dr Maney added that respiratory arrest then caused her heart to stop and prevented oxygen from travelling to the brain. Mr O'Neill was asked to check for signs of life, confirming each time he heard his daughter take and release a breath. "I don't know what's wrong," he said, before through tears he added, "I can't look at her. "I tried to force a bottle in her mouth to see if she would take it," he added, after stating that "her eyes are closed and she's shaking." Shortly after emergency services arrived, the father was heard directing ambulance staff to his home. Seconds later, the call ended. Caragh spent two days in hospital before succumbing to a severe brain injury at half past one in the afternoon of February 7, 2014. Dr John McCabe was the registrar at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children when Caragh was admitted. He told the court that trauma became the "main differential" after speaking to Caragh's father at the hospital. The doctor displayed to the court the way in which Mr O'Neill tried to revive his daughter, a movement he described as "vigorous". Counsel for Mr O'Neill said it conflicted with that of another medic who gave evidence on the first day. Dr McCabe added that this did not change the approach to Caragh's treatment. Mr O'Neill attended the inquest yesterday, which is set to last for five days. Northern Ireland's Attorney General has urged a new investigation into the deaths of six men killed in shootings involving British soldiers 45 years ago. The Public Prosecution Service is considering the referral from John Larkin in relation to shootings of the so-called New Lodge Six in north Belfast. Read More The six Catholics, including three unarmed IRA members, were shot during a night of violence in February 1973. The Army originally acknowledged it was involved in the incidents, insisting soldiers were engaged in a gun battle with the IRA. There were also suspicions loyalist paramilitaries had a role in the killings. Families of the men had asked Mr Larkin to order a new inquest into the deaths, claiming the original coroner's probe did not investigate properly. The Attorney General has gone further and asked Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Herron to consider whether the case merits a probe by the PSNI. Relatives believe a controversial Army unit known as the Military Reaction Force (MRF) was involved in some of the shootings. PSNI detectives are already investigating allegations that the MRF carried out random and unjustified shootings elsewhere in Belfast during the early 1970s following a previous direction by the PPS. The six men shot in the New Lodge were 19-year-old IRA members James Sloan, James McCann and Tony Campbell, as well as Catholic civilians John Loughran (35), Brendan Maguire (32) and Ambrose Hardy (26). A spokeswoman for the PPS said: "The Director of Public Prosecutions recently received a referral from the Attorney General in relation to the fatal shooting of six men in the New Lodge area of Belfast in February 1973. Expand Close Referral: John Larkin / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Referral: John Larkin "The Attorney General has asked the director to consider using the power set out under Section 35 (5) of the Justice (Northern Ireland) Act 2002 to require the chief constable to ascertain and provide information on the circumstances of the deaths. This referral is under consideration." Referrals to the PPS can come from sources including the Attorney General, Appeal Court judges and coroners. In the last six years, there have been 25 referrals, 11 in Troubles-related cases. Rosaleen Beatty, whose brother Mr Hardy was killed, told the BBC: "I would just like to see justice done. "They have got away with it so far and we are glad to say that we are getting a wee bit closer maybe to the truth and we hope they do get to the truth. "We know that they were innocent and they were unlawfully killed. We want them to accept and we want the people who did it to be brought to justice. "The night that he was shot he was in the Circle Bar and he waved a white flag because there was a bit of a lull and he thought: 'Well, I will wave a white flag and let people know that we are coming out'. "But when he put his head out, when he was waving the flag, they shot from the top of the Victoria Flats there, they shot him in the back of the head and he was killed outright." Early figures show that around 30,000 more passengers are now making Glider their first choice for travel every week Early figures show that around 30,000 more passengers are now making Glider their first choice for travel every week. Translink said that represents an increase of over 17% - which equates to removing more than 4,000 car journeys every day and 300 full Gliders of extra passengers each week. Translink has already purchased two more vehicles, which will arrive in the spring. After the 90m flagship Glider service set off on its first official day of operation in early September, it received a mixed reaction. But Translink said the public now appear to have taken it to their hearts. Translink's Chris Conway said: "We have had much positive feedback, both in terms of the look and feel of the vehicles, but also in terms of the opportunity for people to connect across the city." Ms McMahon's legal team argued that the practice, contained in the Flags Regulations (NI) 2000 goes against the Agreement (stock photo) A nationalist woman has lost her legal challenge to the flying of the Union flag at courthouses in Northern Ireland. Lawyers for Helen McMahon, from Co Tyrone, claimed she is being unlawfully denied equal treatment by having the standard erected at full mast on designated days. But a High Court judge rejected arguments that the practice breaches a requirement in the Good Friday Agreement to ensure parity of esteem for both communities. Mrs Justice Keegan said: "In my view it is clear from all of this that the general principles of the Agreement were taken into account by the Secretary of State. This includes the concept of parity of esteem. No new facts have emerged." Ms McMahon centred her case on the Union flag being flown at her local courthouse in Omagh. Her bid to secure a judicial review was then widened out to include all other court buildings. In proceedings issued against the Secretary of State, she stated that she recognises and acknowledges the Irish tricolour as her national flag. Under current arrangements, according to her case, "the flying of flags in Northern Ireland does not reflect me as a member of the nationalist community on any level". Ms McMahon's legal team argued that the practice, contained in the Flags Regulations (NI) 2000 goes against the Agreement. But the judge said: "The commitment to equality must be framed by virtue of the fact that Northern Ireland would remain part of the UK pending a decision by the people in relation to this. There has been no change to this constitutional position." One of the key architects of the peace process has appealed to Arlene Foster to think beyond the DUP's current position of influence after the former First Minister claimed the Good Friday Agreement was "not sacrosanct". Former SDLP Deputy First Minister Seamus Mallon joined the chorus of critics following her comments in a Daily Telegraph interview. Read More He said that, sadly, he was "not surprised" by Mrs Foster's rhetoric. "Even when she was First Minister she was never really in tune with the objectives of the Good Friday Agreement, which seek to create equality of life here in the north of Ireland," he said. In the interview, Mrs Foster praised Boris Johnson's "positive" Brexit vision and said it was wrong to think the Good Friday Agreement was sacred when determining any final deal with the EU. She also said it was "deeply frustrating" to hear people suggest that "we can't touch" the 1998 accord which has been held up as "a sacrosanct piece of legislation" by those who have misinterpreted it. Mr Mallon urged Mrs Foster to think beyond the political terrain which her party currently finds itself on, which will inevitably shift. "Let me just say this to Mrs Foster if I may: this agreement you have with the Tory Government is transient and will pass away, but the foundations upon which the Good Friday Agreement was built will last," he said. "Those foundations of peace, justice and equality is something you should think about." In a stinging critique, Mr Mallon said her words only bolster his belief that she "finds great difficulty with all of the principles" which underline the Agreement. Mrs Foster's comments also provoked criticism from Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. Ms McDonald called on the Irish Government to make it clear the Good Friday Agreement was "not a chip to be bargained". She warned that Mrs Foster's comments "revealed a reckless disregard" for the peace process, which was endorsed by the vast majority of people on both sides of the border in the 1998 referendum. "It should be remembered that Arlene Foster left the UUP, which supported the Good Friday Agreement, to join the anti-Agreement DUP," she added. "It appears the DUP leader has learnt nothing over the past 15 years." Ms McDonald also claimed Brexit was "incompatible" with the Good Friday Agreement and called on the DUP to "commit to the full implementation of the Good Friday, and other agreements, rather than seeking to undermine them", which she said would lead to the restoration of devolution. Addressing the Dail, Mr Varadkar said that while it was factually correct to say the Agreement could be changed, he sees Dublin's role as "co-defenders" of an international agreement and vowed to protect its "primacy". "I don't think we should forgot all that has been gained by the Agreement," he said. "A peace in Britain and Ireland, power-sharing most of the time in Northern Ireland, and ever closer co-operation between north and south." Mr Varadkar added the peace deal "is not a piece of British legislation; it is an international agreement between the British and Irish Governments, as well as a multi-party agreement among the various parties". "While it may be factually correct to say that the Good Friday Agreement, just like any international treaty, could be changed, it can only be changed with the agreement of British and Irish Governments, and can only be changed with the consent of the people of Northern Ireland, and indeed across cross-community consent. "It is not something that can be changed by any one political party or by any one government. "Certainly, as far as this government is concerned, the Good Friday Agreement is not up for negotiation in these talks over Brexit." Tanaiste Simon Coveney took to social media to rebuke Mrs Foster, who addressed delegates attending a DUP fringe event at the Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham yesterday. "I have respect for Arlene, but she is wrong on this," he wrote on Twitter. He too vowed to defend and protect the Agreement. UUP leader Robin Swann branded Mrs Foster's comments as "strategically short-sighted" and said the principle of consent "should be sacrosanct" to all unionists. "The reality is that the principle of consent is what binds us to the United Kingdom, it is the best settlement for unionists," he said. "We should be looking to build on this principle and ultimately remove the changes made at St Andrews to finally do away with the sectarian politics which continues to plague us to this day." Alliance leader Naomi Long called on Mrs Foster to clarify her comments and pointed out that there is "a world of difference" between reforming structures with the consent of the population "and undermining the spirit of the GFA" against the wishes of the electorate. She also warned that a "headlong rush" towards a hard Brexit could render the founding principles of co-operation and interdependence as collateral damage. "Its success relies on every one of us, including Arlene Foster, showing it the respect it deserves and understanding how significant it is in building towards the united community we all desire," she added. But yesterday Mrs Foster said the Agreement is not infallible and has already been "changed on a number of occasions" citing the St Andrews Agreement and Stormont House Agreement as examples. "It is a thing of its time and changeable," she added. A man accused of raping a woman near a railway crossing claims he went no further than making a rejected "romantic approach", the High Court heard. Counsel for Roman Dan-Alexandru said he is now focused on clearing his name of any involvement in the alleged sex attack in Coleraine, Co Derry. The 21-year-old Romanian national is one of two men charged with committing rape in the Bushmills Road area of the town in the early hours of September 22. Dan-Alexandru, of Hazelbank Road in Coleraine, also faces counts of sexually assaulting another woman the previous day, theft of a mobile phone and handling stolen goods. He is to be granted bail on strict conditions once an address approved by police is identified, a judge ruled. The court heard he arrived in Northern Ireland earlier this year, finding work at a breakers yard. A prosecution lawyer contended that when Dan-Alexandru was arrested and had the disputed rape allegation put to him, he replied: "She did totally agree." But defence barrister Ben Thompson countered that his client was referring to an unrelated incident involving consensual sex with a separate female at a house party earlier in the evening. He argued that emerging forensic evidence has not revealed any link between Dan-Alexandru's DNA and the alleged victim. Counsel said: "In respect of the alleged rape at the railway crossing, he instructed that he was at that location with his co-accused and that he made a romantic approach to the complainant. "That approach was rebuffed, and he took the matter absolutely no further." Amid concerns that the accused may flee if released, Mr Thompson stressed: "Clearing his name is exactly what he's intent on doing." Granting bail, Mr Justice McAlinden confirmed Dan-Alexandru will only be released when police endorse any proposed living arrangements outside Coleraine. The accused must abide by a curfew, electronic tagging and surrender all Romanian identity documents. The judge also banned him from leaving Northern Ireland or making contact with his co-defendant, alleged victims or witnesses. SDLP MLA John Dallat has expressed his anger after it was revealed that the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has made no formal complaints about damage to public property over the last three years. The information came to light after the East Londonderry MLA made a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the department to ask if they had reported damage caused to kerbstones and other public property. Read More However the DfI defended its position saying that it is mindful of taking any action which may heighten community tensions. There were a number of sectarian incidents in Mr Dallat's constituency over the summer relating to the painting of kerbstones, graffiti and the erecting of flags. Kerbstones in the area were painted both green, white and orange and red, white and blue. In August DfI contractors stopped removing red, white and blue paint from a roundabout at the gateway to Limavady after a number of people arrived and began to film the workers. The department replied to Mr Dallat's FOI saying that they had made no complaints to the PSNI over the issue. "In response to your request, I can confirm that in the period 2016 to present, the department has made no formal complaints to PSNI regarding the painting of road edge kerbs on other public property," a DfI spokesperson said. Mr Dallat said he was shocked beyond belief by the response. "I am shocked that a government department responsible for millions of pounds of public property doesnt have a practice of reporting criminal damage as a matter of course," the East Londonderry MLA said. "The cost of removing paint and replacing signage criminally damaged must run into hundreds of thousands of pounds and nothing can be done to deal with the culprits because there are no formal complaints made by the DfI. "In a recent meeting with PSNI chiefs this anomaly was highlighted to me as the reason offered as to why they have made no attempt to prosecute those involved in painting roundabouts, kerbstones and other public property. Mr Dallat said he had been told by police that the cases would not result in convictions. "The police claimed in cases where they know the culprits they have not submitted files to the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) because they would be rejected because no one is complaining," he said. "They went further and suggested that even if the PPS were to recommend prosecutions these would be thrown out of court, again because there is no formal complaint made. "I will go back to DfI to establish who took the decision not to prosecute and for what reasons." A DfI spokesperson said that they would be raising the matter with police. The Department does not condone damage to its property, however, it is mindful of taking any actions which would heighten community tension and compromise the safety of its staff," the spokesperson said. "It does maintain regular liaison with the PSNI and will be raising this issue at the next liaison meeting later this month. An Islamic association has offered the hand of friendship to trolls who made abusive comments about a group of Muslims praying in the street. It is believed the six men were travelling through the north west when their time for prayer arrived. They stopped their car beside a garage and car wash at Newbuildings and kneeled on the ground to pray, before getting in their vehicle and driving away. A photograph of the scene was shared on Facebook alongside a torrent of hate-filled comments. The North West Islamic Association expressed gratitude "to everyone who defended the rights of Muslims to practise our religion freely without being threatened or abused". "Muslims pray to God five times a day at specific times with recitation of verses, bowing and prostration," it said. "These prayers are not only a way of submitting to God but also a way to give thanks. "When done properly, these regular prayers should keep Muslims in a state of piety and peace as when people pray in Church or elsewhere. "These five prayers should be performed at specific times and Muslims are encouraged to pray at the mosque, at home or at any suitable clean place as long as they don't block a road, cause disruption or cause difficulties to the neighbourhood." The association said it was aware of the comments online, and said it indicated how some people "have very little knowledge about Muslims and Islam". It added: "This is most likely because they never got a chance to even meet a Muslim before. As a result, their fear of the unknown influenced their opinion and behaviour. "North West Islamic Association, as an organisation, would like to offer individuals or groups the chance to connect with the Muslim community in the city by inviting them for a cup of tea at their convenience. "We hope that this will help us build bridges with all communities in the city so that we can all live in peace and harmony together." The director of a heating company has told the Renewable Heat Incentive inquiry his company has sold "next to nil" boilers in Northern Ireland since lucrative tariffs were slashed in the wake of the scandal. Connel McMullan from the Banbridge-based company Alternative Heat said he initially believed officials from the Department of Enterprise (Deti) had properly mapped out the cost controls. Alternative Heat had supplied 610 biomass boilers in Northern Ireland between 2013 and 2016, with sales doubling to 386 in the year before cuts to subsidies were introduced. Since then, he said it was of little surprise that his company had supplied "next to nil" boilers in Northern Ireland. He added that he would "without a doubt" trade that highly profitable year for a continuing RHI that offered lower subsidies. When the RHI started in 2012, Mr McMullan said he believed the high reward offered was to encourage as many to join up as possible, but felt sure that Deti would later cut the subsidies. Having already worked on the RHI in Great Britain, he assumed officials in Northern Ireland had a "structured approach to a scheme that was thought out". He said customers considering the RHI expected a high payback, meaning they could have balanced their books in five years or less. "With the renewable industry, unless the payback is as lucrative as possible it can be a hard alternative to sell," he said. Mr McMullan said the RHI was "much stronger than it needed to be" for the market. During his evidence, the inquiry heard how Mr McMullan's company had kept in regular contact with departmental officials running the RHI. The business development manager for Alternative Heat, Fergal Hegarty, was told in 2015 that cost controls would be introduced in the autumn. This information was passed on to Alternative Heat's trading partners and the information quickly circulated throughout the wider industry. David Scoffield, senior counsel for the inquiry, said they wished to get evidence from Mr Hegarty, but he had spent much of the last year travelling around the world. Mr McMullan said Mr Hegarty was on unpaid leave at present, but was due to return to work next year. Asked if his absence was related to the inquiry he said: "Not on my understanding, no". Although the cost controls introduced in 2015 made the scheme less lucrative, Mr McMullan said it was still enough to make it worthwhile. He said he was "glad" of the changes as it made it more likely the scheme would be viable in the long term. In February 2016, however, the closure of the RHI scheme was announced. Mr Hegarty contacted Deti to tell them it had "very, very serious implications" for biomass boiler firms. The inquiry heard that Deti official Seamus Hughes told Mr Hegarty it was "a dire situation". Mr Hegarty wrote to the department again to warn the closures meant firms had been left "out to dry with a basic overnight closure of the scheme". Concluding his evidence, Mr McMullan said his company had survived by focusing their efforts on the GB market. "Any business focused on renewables in Northern Ireland has a cliff face to climb and I wouldn't envy their task," he said. "For our side we wouldn't bank on sales in renewable energy in Northern Ireland, certainly in the next decade. Despite still having business in Great Britain, he said the RHI scandal meant his company had to live with a stigma. A Northern Ireland council is to review how much it costs to 'spend a penny' after it emerged it had run up a 60,000 bill for portable toilets last year. Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council (ABC) has agreed to re-examine its provision after a surge in demand for the loos prompted calls for a clampdown. Officials fear the cost could spiral to more than 160,000 per year if the council receives requests to supply toilets to 100 of its own facilities across the borough. Around two thirds of that cost would be equipment hire and waste disposal, while 60,000 would be allocated to staff servicing costs, bringing the overall expenditure to 164,000, according to the council's own financial breakdown. A council official has now warned that a review of criteria for supplying events may have to be applied in the future, given there is currently "no budget" for portable toilet provision. The debate was sparked after council officials advised the leisure services committee to turn down a request to supply portable toilets at a children's summer scheme held in a rural area of Co Down during July and August. They feared approving the request could set a precedent that would lead to a influx of similar calls, given it has responsibility for 28 multi-use game areas and 95 equipped play areas. Of these, only two have portable toilet provision. These are Brownstown Park in Portadown and Lurgan Junior High School, both of which are classified by the council as "destination sites" due to the number of people using the facilities and therefore requiring the service. But the situation prompted one councillor to demand a breakdown on how the 60,000 was spent last year, including a list of local community groups that availed of toilets over the past 12 months. Sinn Fein's Liam Mackle made the request after the figure was described as "huge" by one of his fellow party council members, Catherine Nelson. However, defending the 60,000 spend, independent councillor Paul Berry stressed yesterday that within the context of the sheer geographical scale of the ABC area, it wasn't such an "exorbitant" figure. "We're the largest council area outside of Belfast. We have an area that goes from Lough Neagh all the way to Rathfriland," he told the Belfast Telegraph. "The reality of it is that there are many community groups out there that don't receive very much money and it's vitally important that we as a council support them when we can. "It's not a vast amount of money in the overall scheme of things." Mr Berry said that while he supported the current level of provision, he cautioned that "careful" management of the process was necessary. "The council also organises big events which brings hundreds, if not thousands, of people to the borough that have a positive impact," he added. "I know, having a family with young kids, how frustrating it can be to be at events without portable toilets." Tributes have been paid to a Co Down solicitor who died suddenly while on holiday on the Continent. Conleth Lavery, who was widely known as Con, died last Saturday in Spain. The 66-year-old from Banbridge had been enjoying a sailing trip with friends and had been due to return home on Monday, the Banbridge Chronicle reported. Mr Lavery, who is survived by his wife Ethna, children James and Helen and grandchildren Lily and Jake, ran his own legal practice, Con Lavery & Co Solitictors, in his home town for the past 14 years. He was a highly respected member of the legal profession, having had over three decades of experience practising in the Banbridge and Lurgan areas. Mr Lavery graduated from Queen's University's School of Law in 1975. He had specialised in residential and commercial conveyancing matters, having acted for a number of established property developers. President of the Law Society Eileen Ewing expressed her members' regret at news of Mr Lavery's death. She said: "I wish to extend our sincere condolences to Mr Lavery's family, friends and colleagues during this very difficult time." Police came under attack in the New Lodge area (stock picture) Police officers came under attack from a group of youths during disturbances in north Belfast. Police were responding to an urgent call for assistance from a member of the public in the New Lodge area of the city just after 7.30pm on Tuesday. No officers were injured but a number of vehicles were damaged. Chief Inspector Kelly Moore said: Last night roads were barricaded with stolen industrial bins which were set on fire; fireworks, masonry and trees thrown at police vehicles. "At one point our Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service colleagues had to withdraw from the area. The local community deserves better. Residents of north Belfast should not be subjected to these incidents of criminal and anti-social behaviour. Local police should be able to answer calls for assistance when the public most need us, and not come under attack from young people." CI Moore added police also responded to a number of reports about cars and motorbikes being driven dangerously in the area, with groups of young people gathering to watch. The officer added: I want to reassure the community in North Belfast, that in addition to investigating last nights disorder, we will have additional resources dedicated to North Belfast to respond to any incidents. We will also have CCTV vehicles in the area to record footage of any incidents. We should not need to deploy these resources. Time and time again we have asked parents and guardians to ensure they know where their young people are, what they are doing and who they are with. I again remind young people that what initially might seem like fooling about can sometimes get out of hand and at best result in a criminal record which can affect travel, education and employment opportunities in the future. At worst, someone could be seriously injured or killed." Police are investigating the sudden death of the woman, named locally as Aine Campbell, after they were called to a home in the towns Coolnafranky area on Monday morning (stock picture) A post mortem will be held after a woman in her 20s became the second person to die suddenly in a Cookstown neighbourhood this year. Police are investigating the sudden death of the woman, named locally as Aine Campbell, after they were called to a home in the towns Coolnafranky area on Monday morning. A post mortem is to be carried out to determine the cause of death. It follows the death of Liam Campbell (36) in Coolnafranky Park in June. He was found unconscious at a property there. And in October 2016, Amy Reid (21), who was from Cooknafranky Park, died during a house party in Coagh. Tributes were paid to Ms Campbell, who was a former pupil of St Patricks College, on social media in the wake of the tragedy. One mourner wrote: Awful news will always remember her wee cheeky smile from school. Another described Ms Reid as a lovely looking girl taken too soon. On Tuesday, a PSNI spokeswoman said: Police attended the scene of the sudden death of a woman aged in her 20s in the Coolnafranky area of Cookstown yesterday morning, Monday, 1 October. There are no further details at this stage. Posts on social media indicated that Aines wake will take place at around 6.30pm this evening. No funeral details had been released at the time of going to press. A TUV councillor has been interviewed by police and a Sinn Fein MLA is set to be questioned after disgraced MP Ian Paisley alleged that electoral law had been broken during the recent North Antrim recall petition process. Timothy Gaston, who sits on Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, said he was quizzed by police in relation to a message he posted on social media during the six-week recall petition. He told the Belfast Telegraph that he had voluntarily attended Ballymena PSNI Station to be interviewed yesterday after officers called at his home last week. North Antrim Sinn Fein MLA Philip McGuigan said yesterday that he had also been contacted by police seeking an interview. He said that he had not yet been questioned, but was willing to attend a police station voluntarily. Last month chief electoral officer Virginia McVea warned Mr McGuigan about a video he posted on social media that appeared to comment on the state of the petition during the recall process. Under the Recall of MPs Act 2015, it is prohibited to publish a statement on whether a person has signed the petition before it closes. Publishing any forecast of the result of the petition based on exit polling is also prohibited. To do so is punishable by a fine or up to six months' imprisonment. In September Mr Paisley, who is still barred from the House of Commons, said that he had made "at least three" complaints to the PSNI. He alleged: "A number of people have breached section 124 of the election law and I have raised at least three specific complaints about individuals with police. "It's up to police now to take that forward. I know if I had breached the law in that way the same people would be asking questions." Mr Gaston said: "On September 4 I put up a post on Facebook which said that I had signed the recall petition. "The next day the chief electoral officer Virginia McVea rang me to inform me she had received a complaint and the post was in breach of legislation. As a result I amended my post." Mr Gaston branded Mr Paisley's complaint to the PSNI "a waste of police time". "The MP would be better putting his efforts into trying to resolve ongoing issues in Ballymena rather than focusing on social media posts," he said. "This is a waste of police time and it is adding to the expense already incurred by the disgraced MP having the petition. "Why waste taxpayers' money further having the police investigate social media, instead of being on the ground doing their job?" Mr Gaston's party said: "Once councillor Gaston was made aware of the issue with what he had posted on social media he immediately amended it. "The real scandal in North Antrim of course is the cost of Mr Paisley's antics, both politically in terms of leaving constituents without a voice at Westminster, and financially given the cost of running the petition. "The PSNI have plenty to be getting on with in North Antrim, with a particularly challenging situation in Ballymena at the moment. "There will be many who will question Mr Paisley's use of police time and resources. "Constituents would rather see them on the ground investigating real crime, rather than being tied up investigating social media posts." Mr McGuigan said he was unfazed by the matter. "The police have made contact with me but I haven't been questioned, and they haven't made a date for questioning," he said. "They informed me of a complaint against me and they want to interview me. "I've no difficulty in answering questions. I presume it's in relation to a tweet, a video. "It's not something I'm particularly worried about - a lot of it is speculation. "I will attend the police station voluntarily." Westminster's first ever recall petition was initiated after Mr Paisley (below) was banned from the House of Commons for 30 sitting days for failing to declare two 2013 family holidays paid for by the Sri Lankan government. In July a parliamentary watchdog found that a year after the luxury holidays Mr Paisley lobbied then Prime Minister David Cameron not to support a UN probe into alleged Sri Lankan human rights abuses during that country's civil war. Mr Paisley was suspended from the DUP, but that has since been lifted. He is barred from holding office within the party for a year. The recall petition fell short of the 10% of Mr Paisley's constituents needed to force a by-election. The PSNI confirmed that Mr Gaston had been interviewed. "Police have received a report in relation to comments made on social media," it said. "Enquiries are ongoing." The coroner said that one of the reasons for the inquest being held was to educate people about the dangers of drugs (stock picture) A pregnant mother of nine from Co Londonderry who died after taking a cocktail of over-the-counter drugs should have received better care from social services, a family member has claimed. Aisling Newland (37) who was 30 weeks pregnant with her tenth child was found dead at her home in Edenmore Park in Limavady on August 23, 2016. Packets of various medicines were found in every room of Ms Newland's home including some prescribed to her partner and two other individuals. State Pathologist Professor Jack Crane told an inquest into Ms Newland's death sitting in Coleraine that she died from bronchopneumonia and acute liver necrosis as well as poisoning by dihydrocodeine, codeine and paracetamol. The court heard that Ms Newland had been known to a number of services within the Western Trust - including social services, addiction services and maternity, but she had a history of not turning up for appointments. This led to her being discharged on a number of occasions from the addiction service - information which wasn't always shared or accessible to other services within the Western Trust. Coroner Patrick McGurgan was critical of the lack of communication between these services, which he said resulted in "missed opportunities" in Ms Newland's care. Mr McGurgan also said that the reliance on patients to update different services themselves "highlighted shortcomings" and there had been "insufficient joined-up" communication between services, which included the failure of social services to inform addiction services in 2016 that Ms Newland was pregnant. The coroner described her death as "a double tragedy" and said that it was important not to forget Ms Newland's baby, who was at 30 weeks' gestation. The coroner said that one of the reasons for the inquest being held was to educate people about the dangers of drugs - including over-the-counter drugs like paracetamol and codeine - and the importance of not taking drugs prescribed for other people. Ms Newland's aunt and next of kin Donna McLaughlin told the court that she believed her niece was trying to address her addiction problems and was trying to turn her life around so she could keep the baby that she was expecting. Ms McLaughlin was critical of the level of care she felt her niece received earlier in her life when her first three children were removed from her care for adoption. "Had she (Ms Newland) got the care she needed then things might have turned out different," she said. "Social services let us down a lot," she added. A businessman has told a public inquiry that "renewable heat in Northern Ireland is dead". Alan Hegan is director at Hegan Biomass Ltd in Dungannon, which has been installing biomass boilers since the early 2000s. Read More He told the RHI Inquiry yesterday of a complete breakdown of trust between the wider business community and the Stormont department responsible for the flawed green energy scheme. Mr Hegan said the bad Press the scandal had generated had been hugely damaging to the renewables industry. In cutting RHI payments, he also said Stormont had broken a "cast iron guarantee" that "shattered" the cash flow of businesses. The fallout, he added, had caused at least one of his competitors to close their doors this week. He also told the probe his company had all but collapsed, and may fold within nine months. "It's totally shambolic, the industry is destroyed," he said. "I see a negative campaign of attrition by the Department for the Economy (DfE) at the moment. In Northern Ireland we currently have a grant scheme to get an oil boiler, in Germany it's illegal to even install an oil boiler. "That's really where we're at and, as long as that continues, I don't see there is a future for renewables in Northern Ireland." Earlier in his evidence Mr Hegan said he believed RHI had been deliberately geared towards profit instead of energy efficiency. When the scheme opened in 2012 he expected a spike in demand for his larger and more energy efficient boilers, but this never happened. He said it became much more lucrative to use multiple smaller boilers at 99kw or under. Mr Hegan said this made the choice of a larger boiler economically unviable. Asked why it took so long for Deti, the department in charge at the time, to realise that tariffs were far too generous, he replied: "I believe they knew." He said the motive was to encourage a rapid uptake of the new scheme but the high subsidies weren't reduced over time. "I don't believe the scheme would have been what I or anyone in the industry would have designed," he added. Despite raising these concerns with Deti at the time he said that "nobody wanted to hear it, nobody cared". The panel asked Mr Hegan if there was a "conspiracy of silence" between the department and energy industry, in that they knew the price of wood pellets was substantially less than the subsidy on offer. Mr Hegan dismissed this, saying it was widely known. For a government scheme costing hundreds of millions, he said: "I'm astounded the department didn't know the cost of fuel. It's like saying: 'We don't know what price diesel or petrol is'. "This was seen as a certified, upright government scheme. "I was under the illusion there were people a lot more qualified and intelligent that had made these decisions. We were out there as a business to implement the policy." Mr Hegan said plans in 2013 to reduce subsidies for smaller boilers were left to gather dust. In his written evidence, he criticised the energy regulator Ofgem, which had been contracted by Deti to administer the RHI scheme here. He said the majority of Ofgem energy officials were admin staff who "have never seen a biomass boiler". Mr Hegan alleged Ofgem "suffered from DfE interference whilst processing applications in the NI scheme" and described audits as "a total mess". He added: "When DfE pass them (audits) onto Ofgem it is clear they are providing incorrect information." SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan has called on Arlene Foster to resign as DUP leader after she suggested the Good Friday Agreement could be altered to achieve a Brexit deal. Speaking to the Daily Telegraph Mrs Foster said it was wrong to think that the 1998 peace agreement was "sacrosanct". Read More She suggested that the agreement was acting as a barrier to a Brexit deal. It has been deeply frustrating to hear people who voted remain and in Europe talk about Northern Ireland as though we cant touch the Belfast Agreement. Things evolve, even in the EU context," Mrs Foster said. There has been a lot of misinterpretation, holding it up as a sacrosanct piece of legislation. The DUP did not back the Good Friday Agreement, though at the time Mrs Foster was a member of the UUP, who did support it. She said that the agreement had "changed on a number of occasions recently.. It has been changed by St Andrews, by the Stormont House Agreement. It is not something that should be treated as something which is infallible, it is a thing of its time and changable." In the wake of her comments Mr McCrossan said that Mrs Foster should do the "honourable thing and resign" or at "the very least" take a long holiday. "Youre out of control and wrong to say the Good Friday Agreement is not "sacrosanct"," the West Tyrone MLA wrote on social media. "Its a treaty lodged with the UN and fully endorsed by 676,966 (71%) of NI voters. Expand Close Daniel McCrossan / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Daniel McCrossan "Far more than 349,442 (44%) who voted Leave. "Youre hugely divisive and dangerous - each and every time you open your mouth you put your foot in it!" The DUP has yet to respond to a request for comment on Mr McCrossan's statement. 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Mr Justice Horner held it would be wrong to deprive the public of any benefits from increased efficiencies and possible price reductions by continuing with the hold-up pending the outcome of an ongoing legal battle. Eircom UK Ltd has issued proceedings against the Department for Finance over its decision to give the Northern Ireland Public Shared Network (NIPSN) contract to rival bidder BT. The contract involves providing fibre, copper and other media for data transfer and phone and video conferencing between computers and IT systems. It includes communication services for the PSNI and Northern Ireland Civil Service. With a maximum duration of nine years, the total estimated value of the arrangement is between 50m-400m. In 2007 Eircom won the original contract on the basis that it submitted the most economically advantageous tender. But the company is now challenging the Department's decision to award the new NIPSN contract to BT. Eircom claims the rival tender was abnormally low, the court heard. Those proceedings allege the Department is "facilitating predatory pricing" to force Eircom out of the Northern Ireland market, in contravention of competition law. The company wanted a prohibition on the contract commencing until the case is determined. It objected to the Department's bid for an order to set aside the automatic suspension and gain permission to enter into the NIPSN contract with BT. Ruling on that application, Mr Justice Horner held that the public interest favoured removing the suspension. Damages will be an adequate remedy for Eircom if it ultimately succeeds in the main trial, he pointed out. The judge said: "I consider that on balance the risk of a greater injustice comes from leaving the suspension in place and/or maintaining an injunction. "This is because it cannot be in the public interest to deprive the public generally of the benefits of increased efficiencies and possible price reductions that the new contract may bring to the public networks by delaying its award for a period of nine months and perhaps up to 15 months. "The greater risk by far of irremediable prejudice lies in leaving the suspension in place and/or preventing the Department from awarding this contract to BT." A young man who died after a three-vehicle road crash in Co Fermanagh on his way home from visiting his girlfriend was a nephew of Sinn Fein MLA Sean Lynch. Piaras McElroy (18) from Drumma Lane in Lisnaskea was killed when the car he was driving was involved in a collision with another car and a van transporter. The crash happened on the Moorlough Road between Lisnaskea and Newtownbutler at around 9.45pm on Monday. A woman was taken to the South West Acute Hospital in Enniskillen for treatment to injuries which were described as not life-threatening. Mr McElroy had been returning home after visiting his girlfriend Niamh at her place of work when the crash occurred. A past pupil of Bunscoil an Traonaigh and St Comhghall's College in Lisnaskea, he had been working as an apprentice electrician with electrical contractor Axon in Dungannon since the summer. Mr McElroy was a nephew of the Fermanagh-South Tyrone Sinn Fein MLA Sean Lynch, while his mother Ruth represented the party for many years on Fermanagh District Council, serving as vice chairperson on one occasion. Paying tribute to his nephew last night, Mr Lynch told the Belfast Telegraph: "As a family we are just devastated and we are trying to come to terms with our loss. "Piaras had only recently passed his driving test and just started a new job, but now he has tragically lost his life on our roads. He was a good but quiet kid who was very close to his family". In a statement, a spokesperson for Fermanagh South Tyrone Sinn Fein said: "It is with profound sadness that we have received the news that our young member, Piaras Mac Giolla Rua (McElroy), has lost his life as the result of a tragic accident. "Our thoughts are with the Lynch and McElroy family circle, as well as all of his many friends. We know that the community will support them all at this awful time and in the time ahead." Only last month the Lynch family circle celebrated the 100th birthday of Mr McElroy's grandfather, James. He and his wife Maureen (90), who have 12 children, are this week mourning the tragic loss of a second grandchild. In 2001 their eldest grandson, Gary Lynch, was killed in a motorbike accident in New York. Mr McElroy is survived by his parents, Ruth and Noel, sisters Eimear and Teagan, his partner Niamh, grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins and a large circle of family and friends. His funeral mass will take place at 11am on Friday in St Patrick's Church in Donagh, with the burial in the adjoining cemetery. Meanwhile, police are appealing for witnesses to the crash to come forward. PSNI Inspector Jonathan Gordon said: "We are investigating the circumstances of the collision and I would like to hear from anyone who witnessed it or anyone who may have captured the incident as dashcam or helmet-cam footage." Anyone with information is asked to get in touch with police in Lisnaskea on the non-emergency number 101. This is the moment Arlene Foster was confronted at the Tory party conference about her opposition to same-sex marriage in Northern Ireland. Guardian columnist Owen Jones, who is himself gay, asked Mrs Foster why gay people should not have the right to express their love for their partners by getting married in Northern Ireland. .@OwenJones84 confronts DUP leader Arlene Foster on same-sex marriage pic.twitter.com/75HcOIS58S The Guardian (@guardian) October 2, 2018 Read More The DUP leader replied: "Well they do have the right to express their love. Nobody is taking about anybody not being able to love another person. Of course they can. "I believe that marriage is between a man and a woman." Mr Jones responded by saying most people in Northern Ireland disagree with her position on same-sex marriage. Mrs Foster said: "That could well be the case." Mr Jones said: "This is going to happen, equal marriage, and history will judge all of this. Don't you think you should go down in history as somebody who confronted your own party and said, 'Let gay people have the right to get married and share their love just as I do'?" Mrs Foster said: "I think Owen, the important thing is as a politician you have to have principles and if you believe in something I think you should be allowed to articulate that." A clearly irate Mr Jones replies: "That's a principle? Not for gay people to get married? What a principle..." Mrs Foster said: "If you have a belief, I think you should be allowed to have a belief, otherwise we would live in a very intolerant world wouldn't we?" Sinn Fein President Mary Lou McDonald accused the Irish Government of sitting on the sidelines during the homelessness crisis. Niall Carson/PA. The Irish Government has sat on the sidelines during the housing crisis, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said. She urged Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to double capital investment in building properties and introduce a rent freeze to help around 10,000 people who are homeless. Mr Varadkar said his Government was accelerating the building of all types of housing as he accused Sinn Fein of playing politics with the issue. You have been timid, you have been a lackey to private landlords.Mary Lou McDonald Ms McDonald said: You have been timid, you have been a lackey to private landlords. You have sat on the sidelines in the vain hope that the market will sort it all out, even though all of the evidence tells you that the market is not sorting this out, that the state has to do the heavy lifting and that any government worthy of the name needs to intervene in an emergency fashion. That means doubling your capital investment, it means being bold, it means having ambition, it means ditching your pathetic excuse for dealing with rent control and introducing a rent freeze. It is ensuring that you stop the despicable practice of landlords turfing families out to get vacant possession of properties that the state insisted these people buy. The homelessness issue dominated questions to the Taoiseach in the Irish parliament, the Dail, as crowds gathered for a massive demonstration outside. Mr Varadkar said millions of euro were spent this year providing emergency accommodation. Sinn Fein really has no credibility when it comes to housingLeo Varadkar Emergency powers have been brought in to fast-track planning. Measures have been introduced to control rent, for the first time in decades. The Taoiseach said declaring a housing emergency did not build any more houses. In many ways that sums up the Sinn Fein policy around housing, it is to make declarations and to make speeches and to play politics but not put forward solutions that are workable, or in many cases affordable. Expand Close A homeless man sits surrounded by protesters, during a Take Back the City group organised demostration in Dublin. PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A homeless man sits surrounded by protesters, during a Take Back the City group organised demostration in Dublin. Sinn Fein really has no credibility when it comes to housing. According to the Simon Community, 200,000 people are homeless in Northern Ireland, he noted. Of course, we see Sinn Fein councillors all over the country voting down social housing proposals and affordable housing proposals, in city council and in South Dublin. So in Northern Ireland, where there is a housing crisis, they walk out of office over a renewable heat initiative and they wont go back in. The truth is, Sinn Fein does not want to solve this problem, they want it to get worse, because they believe they can benefit from it politically, and that is a real shame. The system in which doctors are allowed to carry out private practice in public hospitals has been described as an outlier by the Health Minister. A review group has been set up by the government to examine separating private practice from the public hospital system as part of the Slaintecare programme. Health Minister Simon Harris told the Oireachtas health committee on Wednesday that the current mixed model is not the norm. In a briefing of the Slaintecare programme, Mr Harris said the new review group will provide a recommendation before the end of the year. I am in favour of the removal of private practice from public hospitalsSimon Harris, Health Minister He said: Let me be clear, because sometimes I hear myself described by my opponents wrongly in relation to this. I am in favour of the removal of private practice from public hospitals. But, like the Slaintecare committee, I am in favour of doing in an intelligent, phased way. Today, @SimonHarrisTD announces membership of @slaintecare Implementation Advisory Council. The council will have 23 members from a range of backgrounds, incl. medical professionals, experts & patient advocates. It will provide advice & support to #Slaintecare Programme Office. pic.twitter.com/EZumJKBYQ8 Department of Health (@roinnslainte) October 3, 2018 I have made my views on this clear. I believe the current mixed model system is an outlier. We cannot convince ourselves it is the norm, it is not the norm, it is an outlier in that in a public hospital you can have a hospital filled to capacity and a patient who is in greater need of care not getting that care because somebody is carrying out private practice. Expand Close Health Minister Simon Harris (Brian Lawless/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Health Minister Simon Harris (Brian Lawless/PA) We cannot stand over that. Meanwhile, the minister also announced the membership of Slaintecare Implementation Advisory Council. It will have the responsibility of directing the reform of the health service. The health committee was told that the council will have 23 members from a range of backgrounds, including medical professionals, patient advocacy and patient management. Mr Harris said that the group is almost gender balanced and includes experts with a wide range of skills. The council will meet up to four times a year with their first meeting taking place on October 24. Chair of the group is consultant radiation oncologist Dr Tom Keane, with Laura Magahy who has led some of Irelands most significant and transformational public-sector projects, as executive director. Expand Close A general view of Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise (Niall Carson/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A general view of Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise (Niall Carson/PA) Other members include Dr Siobhan Kennelly, a consultant geriatrician, Dr Anthony OConnor, a consultant gastroenterologist, Professor Patrick Broe, a Board Member Bon Secours Health System Limited and Dr Colm Henry who is the interim chief clinical officer of the HSE. Mr Harris added: The Slaintecare Implementation Advisory Council is a critical element in the implementation of the Slaintecare vision. The Advisory Council will provide advice and support to the Slaintecare Programme Office on the delivery of the Slaintecare Implementation Strategy. I am delighted that we have been able to appoint a diverse group of people with a breath of experience and expertise in healthcare, governance, change management and leadership. The Council combines patient/service user representatives, senior health service leaders, clinical leadership and a number of independent change experts from outside the health service who will bring expertise and an independent perspective. The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) have been taking part in exercises in Japan (Anthony Devlin/PA) British soldiers have joined forces with their Japanese counterparts for the first time on their soil as part of a fortnight-long exercise. Fifty soldiers from the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) have been deployed to the slopes of Mount Fuji where they met with the Japanese Ground Self-Defence Force. According to the Japanese Ministry of Defence, the aim of Exercise Vigilant Isles is to strengthen the relationship between the two forces and share tactics and surveillance techniques. Soldiers from the Honourable Artillery Company @HACRegiment conduct joint helicopter drills alongside the Japan Ground Self-Defence Force (JGSDF) at Fuji training base in #Japan This is the first time British troops have exercised in Japan. pic.twitter.com/4lJcPFfpD7 British Army (@BritishArmy) October 2, 2018 Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, Lt General Patrick Sanders said: Japan remains one of our most important strategic partners in the Asia-Pacific region and we welcome the opportunity to develop strong bi-lateral ties as well as demonstrate the UKs approach to joint exercises. No nation operates alone and we want to assure Japan that they will not have to fight alone either. Stability in Asia is essential to stability around the world and the UK is opposed to any change in the status quo by force. This exercise is designed to promote peace and stability in the region with our natural partners whose values of respect and democracy we share. The HAC have been practicing helo drills and safety procedures on JGSDF CH-47 (Chinook) Helicopters prior to deploying on the ground. The UK and JGSDF HQs have also conducted a joint planning exercise on Ex VIGILANT ISLES 18. #findwhereyoubelong @BritishArmy @ArmyInLondon pic.twitter.com/pvZo9Xa7LX HAC Regiment (@HACRegiment) October 2, 2018 Prime Minister Theresa May spoke of a need to form closer defence ties between Britain and Japan during a visit to Tokyo last August, telling her Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe that his country can count on the UK as a dependable partner in the face of an increasingly aggressive Pyongyang. Harry and Meghan were taking part in their first joint official visit to Sussex (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA) The Duke and Duchess of Sussex viewed a rare copy of the American Declaration of Independence as they toured the county that inspired their royal titles. Harry and Meghan had a busy day of engagements on their first joint official visit to Sussex on Wednesday. The couple were greeted by excited crowds when they kicked off their tour in Chichester, the county town of West Sussex. The duke and the US-born former actress saw a rare copy of the American Declaration of Independence at Edes House. Expand Close Meghan is given a flower as she arrives at Edes House in Chichester (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Meghan is given a flower as she arrives at Edes House in Chichester (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA) It is one of only two contemporary handwritten ceremonial manuscript copies. The other is the signed copy at the National Archives in Washington DC. Meghan was vocal in her interest, saying: My goodness, wow, what are the chances? Thats amazing. Expand Close Meghan was wearing a camel Armani coat, a dark green Hugo Boss skirt and a shirt from And Other Stories paired with nude suede stilettos and a small green bag (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Meghan was wearing a camel Armani coat, a dark green Hugo Boss skirt and a shirt from And Other Stories paired with nude suede stilettos and a small green bag (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA) Before she left, she spoke about the rarity of the document being in Sussex, saying: I just cant believe it. The couple were greeted by the Lord Lieutenant of West Sussex, Susan Pyper, and mayor of Chichester Martyn Bell. But they spent most of their time speaking to crowds, including hordes of schoolchildren. Expand Close Meghan signs the visitors book at Edes House (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Meghan signs the visitors book at Edes House (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA) Both were visibly delighted at meeting several younger children. Harry patted the head of a baby and Meghan greeted a blonde child eating an apple who was held up to the barriers. Nine-year-old Tilly Palmer, standing outside The Prebendal School, where she is a pupil, said: Meghan asked me what we were doing today. I said netball, and she said they dont have that in the USA. Expand Close Harry makes a new friend in Chichester (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Harry makes a new friend in Chichester (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA) We said: Welcome to Sussex, and she shook our hands. She was lovely and very pretty. Meghan was wearing a camel Armani coat, a dark green Hugo Boss skirt and a shirt from And Other Stories paired with nude suede stilettos and a small green bag. Harry was dressed in a grey suit and white shirt. Expand Close The Duke and Duchess also visited the University of Chichester, Bognor Regis (Dominic Lipinski/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Duke and Duchess also visited the University of Chichester, Bognor Regis (Dominic Lipinski/PA) The couple also visited Bognor Regis, where they officially opened the University of Chichesters Engineering and Digital Technology Park. The duke and duchess both donned safety goggles to watch an experiment in one of the laboratories. They listened to the student chamber orchestra play a piece from Vivaldis Four Seasons while technology students practised filming and recording the performance in the state-of-the-art sound stage. Expand Close Harry and Meghan were delighted to meet youngsters during the visit (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Harry and Meghan were delighted to meet youngsters during the visit (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA) The couple chatted with cellist Laura Ritchie, who is originally from Chicago, and joked that she has lost her accent. The 44-year-old, who is professor of learning and teaching in the music department, said it was fantastic, really wonderful and such a privilege to meet the royals. They joked that Ive lost my accent, Americans think I sound British, she added. Arthur Collins has lost his challenge over his 20-year jail sentence for a nightclub acid attack (Metropolitan Police/PA) The former boyfriend of reality TV star Ferne McCann has lost a challenge against his 20-year jail sentence for carrying out an acid attack in a packed nightclub. Arthur Collins hurled the corrosive substance over a crowd on the dance floor at Mangle E8 in Dalston, east London, in what a judge described as a despicable act. Collins, of Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, now 26, was sentenced at Londons Wood Green Crown Court in December by Judge Noel Lucas. Three judges at the Court of Appeal in London rejected his bid for a sentence reduction at a hearing on Wednesday. Lord Justice Simon, announcing the decision, said: We accept that this was a severe sentence, but these were exceptionally serious offences, and the severe sentence was fully justified. Expand Close Ferne McCann (Ian West/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Ferne McCann (Ian West/PA) Sixteen people suffered chemical burn injuries and three people were temporarily blinded in the attack. Collins, the father of Ms McCanns baby daughter Sunday, told his trial he did not know the bottle contained acid, claiming he believed it contained a liquid date rape drug which he had snatched from two men after overhearing them planning to spike a girls drink. But a jury convicted him of five counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and nine counts of actual bodily harm. Collins told his trial he had been out celebrating the news of Ms McCanns pregnancy, which they had announced to her family the previous day. After the incident, he went on the run and was not caught until several days later, hiding out in a house in Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire. He has previous convictions including threatening words, possession of cocaine and assault, and was still subject to a suspended sentence for punching a man at a nightclub when he carried out the acid attack. In January, he was jailed for another eight months for using a smuggled mobile phone to call Ms McCann from his prison cell. The Government has said it is confident Britain will still provide a good environment for clinical trials beyond March after a study for a new heart drug was halted due to fears over Brexit. US-based research firm Recardio was due to begin a study of the drug dutogliptin on patients in Exeter, Leeds and Clydebank. But it has suspended the UK arm of the trial due to concerns over how new medicines will be approved after Brexit, the BBC reported. The trial is also running in hospitals in Poland, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland and the US. We are confident of reaching a deal with the EU that benefits patientsDepartment of Health New drugs intended for use in the EU are evaluated by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), based in London. The EMA is seeking to relocate to new headquarters in a different EU country after Brexit. The Golden Jubilee Research Institute, which was informed by Recardio by email on September 17 that one of its research studies had been put on hold in the UK, said the company blamed Brexit. According to the company, uncertainty due to EU withdrawal, particularly drug and data release to the EMA, are completely unresolved and represent a significant risk, a spokesman for the institute said. However, this may change when the regulatory situation has clarity. Like other NHS boards, we are working closely with the Scottish Government to prepare for Britains exit from the European Union in order to continue to provide a high-quality service for our patients and staff. No patients or staff are affected by the decision by Recardio to put this study on hold. A very concerning sign of what could happenScottish Government Whilst we are disappointed if any clinical trial does not go ahead, we will continue to treat our patients in a safe, effective and person-centred way as well as delivering a wide variety of innovative clinical studies across our specialities to benefit patients across Scotland and beyond. A Scottish Government spokesman said: This is the first clinical study we are aware of to be suspended in Scotland as a result of Brexit and a very concerning sign of what could happen. We are working hard to protect Scotlands interests in spite of a lack of clarity and meaningful engagement from the UK Government over our future. With Brexit only six months away, we are doing all we can to plan and mitigate against as many of the significant uncertainties that exist for our health service. A spokeswoman for the Department of Health said: We are confident of reaching a deal with the EU that benefits patients and continues to deliver the best possible environment in which to support clinical trials. We want to ensure that patients in the UK and across the EU are still able to access the most innovative and effective medicines. Recardios founder and president, Dr Roman Schenk, told the BBC that uncertainty over Brexit had created a very difficult situation for his company. Username: Password: or Register Thread Rating: 1 Vote(s) - 5 Average 1 2 3 4 5 Russia's Putin Aim To Pull Out All Foreign Forces From Syria LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 443824 10-03-2018 05:04 PM Post: #1 Russia's Putin Aim To Pull Out All Foreign Forces From Syria Advertisement Agencies (Qasioun) The Russian president Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Moscow aim to pull out all foreign forces from Syria, including the Russian forces. Putin added that US forces presence in Syria considered as a violation for the UN treaties. Putin said "We should pursue a goal that there would be no foreign forces, [the forces] of third states in Syria at all," "Including Russia, if this would be adopted at the level of government of the Syrian Arab Republic," the Russian president added asked by the moderator if Russia was meant here. https://www.qasioun-news.com/en/news/sho...From_Syria It is not gonna happen. The US declines such offer.Agencies (Qasioun) The Russian president Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Moscow aim to pull out all foreign forces from Syria, including the Russian forces.Putin added that US forces presence in Syria considered as a violation for the UN treaties.Putin said "We should pursue a goal that there would be no foreign forces, [the forces] of third states in Syria at all,""Including Russia, if this would be adopted at the level of government of the Syrian Arab Republic," the Russian president added asked by the moderator if Russia was meant here. Natura Naturans Registered User User ID: 441875 10-03-2018 05:10 PM Posts: 13,155 Post: #2 RE: Russia's Putin Aim To Pull Out All Foreign Forces From Syria Russia has consistently taken the high ground in Syria, invited in by the Syrian government, Russia has a right to be there unlike Turkey and the US. The US is an occupying power in Syria and should get out because they support the terrorists that have killed thousands of Syrian citizens. The highest activity a human being can attain is learning for understanding, because to understand is to be free. --Baruch Spinoza LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 372620 10-03-2018 05:12 PM Post: #3 RE: Russia's Putin Aim To Pull Out All Foreign Forces From Syria im not sure the American government knows what borders are. they allow tons of illegals and occupy/bomb other countries as they please. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 443824 10-03-2018 05:23 PM Post: #4 RE: Russia's Putin Aim To Pull Out All Foreign Forces From Syria LoP Guest Wrote: (10-03-2018 05:12 PM) im not sure the American government knows what borders are. they allow tons of illegals and occupy/bomb other countries as they please. Sure they know. Try and get into the US without a Visa. Sure they know. Try and get into the US without a Visa. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 443824 10-03-2018 05:40 PM Post: #5 RE: Russia's Putin Aim To Pull Out All Foreign Forces From Syria Natura Naturans Wrote: (10-03-2018 05:10 PM) Russia has consistently taken the high ground in Syria, invited in by the Syrian government, Russia has a right to be there unlike Turkey and the US. The US is an occupying power in Syria and should get out because they support the terrorists that have killed thousands of Syrian citizens. Putin says US presence in Syria violates UN charter Russian President Vladimir Putin says the presence of US troops in Syria, providing support to anti-Damascus militant groups in the Arab country, violated the United Nations Charter. Speaking during a panel at the Russian Energy Week on Wednesday, Putin said the US has only two ways to be present on Syrian territory, either if it is invited by the Damascus government, or if it has support from the UN. The Russian president stressed that Moscow wanted all foreign troops, including the Russians, to eventually leave Syria. "What can be done, in my opinion, and what should we all strive for? We should strive to have no forces of foreign, third countries on the territory of Syria at all. We need to move towards this," he said. Syria has been gripped by foreign-backed militancy since March 2011. The Syrian government says the Israeli regime and its Western and regional allies are aiding Takfiri terrorist groups wreaking havoc in the country. https://www.presstv.com/Detail/2018/10/0...n-US-Syria Putin says US presence in Syria violates UN charterRussian President Vladimir Putin says the presence of US troops in Syria, providing support to anti-Damascus militant groups in the Arab country, violated the United Nations Charter.Speaking during a panel at the Russian Energy Week on Wednesday, Putin said the US has only two ways to be present on Syrian territory, either if it is invited by the Damascus government, or if it has support from the UN.The Russian president stressed that Moscow wanted all foreign troops, including the Russians, to eventually leave Syria."What can be done, in my opinion, and what should we all strive for? We should strive to have no forces of foreign, third countries on the territory of Syria at all. We need to move towards this," he said.Syria has been gripped by foreign-backed militancy since March 2011. The Syrian government says the Israeli regime and its Western and regional allies are aiding Takfiri terrorist groups wreaking havoc in the country. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 447358 10-03-2018 05:41 PM Post: #6 RE: Russia's Putin Aim To Pull Out All Foreign Forces From Syria Natura Naturans Wrote: (10-03-2018 05:10 PM) Russia has consistently taken the high ground in Syria, invited in by the Syrian government, Russia has a right to be there unlike Turkey and the US. The US is an occupying power in Syria and should get out because they support the terrorists that have killed thousands of Syrian citizens. Correct. Our incursion into Syria is equivilant to Russia invading Germany. Russia has TREATIES with Syria. Obamas ... and now Trumps .... actions in Syria ARE DECLARATIONS OF WAR against Russia. It is only RUSSIAS restraint that has kept us out of nuclear war. RUSSIA defeated ISIS. Why arent we kissing their cheeks? .... Oh..... forgot..... we funded and supported ISIS at every turn! Putin is a tough ruthless guy.... but he loves Russia and Russians. Trump and Putin have a lot in common. But Trump needs to stop listening to his daughter and her husband. Correct.Our incursion into Syria is equivilant to Russia invading Germany.Russia has TREATIES with Syria.Obamas ... and now Trumps .... actions in Syria ARE DECLARATIONS OF WAR against Russia.It is only RUSSIAS restraint that has kept us out of nuclear war.RUSSIA defeated ISIS.Why arent we kissing their cheeks?.... Oh..... forgot..... we funded and supported ISIS at every turn!Putin is a tough ruthless guy.... but he loves Russia and Russians.Trump and Putin have a lot in common.But Trump needs to stop listening to his daughter and her husband. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 447358 10-03-2018 05:42 PM Post: #7 RE: Russia's Putin Aim To Pull Out All Foreign Forces From Syria LoP Guest Wrote: (10-03-2018 05:12 PM) im not sure the American government knows what borders are. they allow tons of illegals and occupy/bomb other countries as they please. Sadly true Sadly true LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 465876 10-03-2018 07:35 PM Post: #8 RE: Russia's Putin Aim To Pull Out All Foreign Forces From Syria the us is a criminal on Syrian soil...their opinion or choice matters not...all actions by america against Syria are war crimes...nothing but war crimes..Pentagon filth needs to slam away with its tail between its legs and beg the world for forgiveness The danger posed by chemical weapons was underlined by the Novichok poisoning in Salisbury earlier this year (Andrew Matthews/PA) UK-based experts are spearheading a major drive to revolutionise the response to a large-scale chemical, biological, radioactive or nuclear incident. A team led by researchers from Loughborough University is developing a number of advanced methods to help emergency services around the world tackle a CBRN (chemical, biological, radioactive or nuclear) attack or accident. The new tools include technology to determine casualty exposure to poisons through rapid skin, breath and saliva tests, drone equipment to measure toxic fumes in the atmosphere and crisis communications techniques to stop the spread of fake news. We live in a time where chemical, biological, radioactive or nuclear terrorism is a real threatProfessor Paul Thomas, Loughborough University The multi-million pound TOXI-Triage project was set up to establish novel ways of giving effective and diagnostically sound medical and toxic assessments amid the confusion, disorder and dangers of a CBRN emergency. While the work started around three years ago, full details are emerging now ahead of a full-scale field trial later this month. Paul Thomas, Professor of Analytical Science from Loughboroughs Department of Chemistry, who is leading TOXI-Triage, described the project as truly revolutionary. He said: Over the last four years, some of the strongest teams across Europe have been working together to help ensure society can respond to and tackle a CBRN incident in the best possible way. We live in a time where CBRN terrorism is a real threat, and incidents such as the Birling Gap gas cloud and Japans Fukushima nuclear crisis illustrate how CBRN incidents can and do occur as a result of human error or a natural disaster. The emergency services need to have the best possible information when a CBRN incident occurs, in the quickest time possible without having to put further lives at risk. TOXI-Triage has created new hot zone assessment, diagnostic, communications and track and tag triage technologies, along with an integrated system that pulls all the information together in real time. Funded by the European Commission, the project brings together 18 teams spanning emergency and health services, defence, industry, and university academics. One strand of the initiative is focused on developing technologies that enable diagnosis of CBRN agents by analysing a potential casualtys skin, saliva or breath. Experts have identified metabolic markers present in someone affected by radiation, while data recovered from toxic alcohols and pesticides, which act in a similar manner to nerve agents, are being examined. Using the markers, a diagnosis map has been created which can be used alongside new analysis technology to carry out rapid triage of casualties in a CBRN emergency. The project has also devised: Payloads for drones that contain radiological and poison cloud monitoring instrumentation; Systems for mapping the environmental impact of an incident and managing decontamination activity; Tools to tackle the spread of fake news and improve official communications during an emergency; A method of using social media to track a crisis situation as it develops and to help in the deployment of emergency services. Later this month, the project team will travel to Athens for a full-scale field trial in partnership with Greeces Ministry of National Defence. It will be the first time so many new advanced methods and technologies will have been combined to tackle a simulated CBRN crisis, Loughborough University said. At the end of the project next year, it is anticipated that the technologies and systems will become the gold standard for an emergency response. A terrorist attack involving CBRN materials has the potential to cause harm by contaminating people, animals, buildings, outdoor environments, water supplies and food, according to the Governments national risk register of civil emergencies. It adds: Extremists remain interested in CBRN materials, however alternative methods of attack such as employing firearms or conventional explosive devices remain far more likely. The danger posed by chemical weapons was underlined by the Novichok poisoning in Salisbury earlier this year. Two people are on trial at the High Court in Glasgow accused of the murder of Margaret Fleming (handout/PA) The mother of a woman allegedly murdered more than 18 years ago has told a court she thought her daughter was getting on with her life and enjoying herself. Margaret Cruickshanks, who told a jury she last spoke to her daughter Margaret Fleming more than 20 years ago, said she did not think she was welcome in her daughters life. The witness also claimed she was assaulted by one of the two people accused of murder when she went to try and bring her daughter home. Ms Fleming was reported missing in October 2016 from her home in Inverkip, Inverclyde, but it is claimed she has not been seen since December 1999. Edward Cairney, 76, and Avril Jones, 58, are accused of Ms Flemings abduction and murder, and of fraudulently claiming 182,000 in benefits by pretending she was still alive. The pair are on trial at the High Court in Glasgow, where they deny all the charges against them. Ms Cruickshanks, 71, told the court her daughter, who was born in 1980, had learning difficulties. Expand Close Edward Cairney, 76, and Avril Jones, 58, are on trial at the High Court in Glasgow (PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Edward Cairney, 76, and Avril Jones, 58, are on trial at the High Court in Glasgow (PA) She sometimes had a temper and could be difficult to handle as a youngster, the court heard. Jurors were told how Ms Fleming went to live with her father after he and her mother separated. Following his death she stayed with her grandparents, before returning to live with her mother at the age of 15-and-a-half, the court was told. Ms Cruickshanks said Jones and Cairney, described as friends of her ex-husband, would take Ms Fleming for a few nights to help her out. By the age of 16, she was staying with them for good, the court was told. Ms Cruickshanks described a time when she went to the home where they resided, known as Seacroft, to bring my daughter home but she said she was not allowed to do so. She and Cairney had words and he assaulted her, she alleged. The witness told the court: He actually threw me up against a wardrobe I actually thought she was getting on with her life and enjoying herself in every way possible.Margaret Cruickshanks He put his hands round my throat, tried to choke me, and spat on my face and threw me down on the ground. She added that Jones was present, watching everything that was going on. The witness said Cairney then asked Ms Fleming where she wanted to live. She looked terrified and said there (Seacroft), Ms Cruickshanks said. The witness also told jurors the episode left her (Ms Cruickshanks) crying and nervous and that she reported it to police. Officers later reported back that Ms Fleming said she was quite happy staying at the property, the court heard. The Crown alleges the incident happened in 1997, while the witness said she believed it to be in 1996. Ms Cruickshanks told the court she never saw, or had contact with, her daughter again after that visit, apart from a possible sighting of her with Cairney near a supermarket. The sighting was said to be a couple of months afterwards, although the court later heard she told police Ms Fleming was aged in her 20s by that point. By October 2016, the court heard that police were conducting an investigation into Ms Fleming being a missing person. Advocate Depute Iain McSporran QC, prosecuting, asked the witness about her feelings towards her daughter over the years that had elapsed with no contact. She said: I actually thought she was getting on with her life and enjoying herself in every way possible. I never thought the likes of this would happen. She added: I thought she was still with Eddie Cairney and Avril Jones. Asked whether she thought she was welcome in her daughters life, she replied: No, I dont think so. Thomas Ross QC, representing Cairney, suggested to the witness that she had been shouting and swearing and had spat on Cairney during the alleged assault. Ms Cruickshanks denied doing so. Mr Ross also told the court that 23 separate people contacted police to say they might have seen Ms Fleming after officers put up posters around the area as part of their inquiry into her disappearance in 2016. During questioning by Ian Duguid QC, for Jones, the court heard Ms Cruickshanks went to social workers with a friend in October 1995 because of concerns over her teenage daughters behavioural difficulties. Paperwork from the department at Inverclyde Council from that time noted Ms Fleming to be a rather lonely, isolated girl and said she may feel rejected by her mother. Cairney and Jones are accused of murdering Ms Fleming, who would now be 37, by unknown means at some point between December 18 1999 and January 5 2000 a charge they deny. They also deny charges of attempting to defeat the ends of justice. The trial, before judge Lord Matthews, continues. A former Plaid Cymru politician has pleaded guilty to making making more than 600 indecent pictures and videos of children. Simon Thomas, 54, admitted three counts of making indecent images of children when he appeared at Aberystwyth Magistrates Court on Wednesday. The court heard 150 pictures and videos, found at the home of the former Welsh Assembly member in July, were in the highest category of illegal images. Thomas pleaded guilty to making 94 still and 56 moving images of category A, 87 still and 16 moving images of category B, and 354 still and five moving images of category C. District Judge Gwyn Jones warned Thomas all sentencing options are open before he adjourned the hearing for a pre-sentence report. Thomas was ordered to surrender his passport to police and was prohibited from having unsupervised contact with children below the age of 16. District Judge Jones said: The fact the court has adjourned today for a report should not be taken as an indication of any predetermined sentence. This includes custody or the case being sent to the crown court. Thomas, from Penparcau, Aberystwyth, was granted conditional bail until he appears at Mold Magistrates Court on October 31. He resigned from Plaid Cymru and from his role as the Welsh Assembly member for Mid and West Wales after he was arrested in July. Thomas was also MP for Ceredigion between 2000 and 2005. Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted she wants a good Brexit agreement but said "Britain isn't afraid to leave with no deal if we had to". Delivering her highly-anticipated speech, which managed to avoid mentioning "Chequers", she acknowledged a no-deal Brexit would be a "bad outcome for the UK and the EU". Read More "It would be tough at first, but the resilience and ingenuity of the British people would see us through," she said. She said her proposals would allow "frictionless trade in goods" while also protecting "our precious Union", with no change at the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland. She took a swipe at Boris Johnson, who reportedly said earlier this year "f*** business" after concerns were raised about Brexit. She told activists: "To all businesses, large and small, you may have heard that there is a four-letter word to describe what we Conservatives want to do to you. "It has a single syllable. It is of Anglo-Saxon derivation. It ends in the letter k. Expand Close Prime Minister Theresa May dances a few steps as she takes the stage to give her keynote address on the fourth and final day of the Conservative Party Conference AFP/Getty Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Prime Minister Theresa May dances a few steps as she takes the stage to give her keynote address on the fourth and final day of the Conservative Party Conference "Back business. Back them to create jobs and build prosperity. Back them to drive innovation and improve lives. "Back them with the lowest corporation tax in the G20. "Britain, under my Conservative government is open for business." She had made an upbeat start to her keynote speech by shimmying on stage to Abba's Dancing Queen. Mocking the dance moves she made during a recent visit to Africa, which went viral, the Prime Minister arrived in the hall throwing some shapes as the crowd cheered. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Boris Johnson Getty Images Prime Minister Theresa May A large queue is seen outside the main hall ahead of Prime Minister Theresa May's speech later today at the Conservative Party Conference on October 3, 2018 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Anthony Devlin/Getty Images) Getty Images Andrea Leadsom arrives ahead of British Prime Minister Theresa May's speech on the final day of the Conservative Party Conference at The International Convention Centre on October 3, 2018 in Birmingham, England. Getty Images Michael Gove and Esther McVey (R) arrive at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, central England, on October 3, 2018 on the fourth and final day of the Conservative Party Conference. AFP/Getty Images Leader of the House of Commons Andrea Leadsom arrives from the hotel to the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, central England, on October 3, 2018 on the fourth and final day of the Conservative Party Conference. AFP/Getty Images Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond arrives with staff from the hotel to the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, central England, on October 3, 2018 on the fourth and final day of the Conservative Party Conference 2018. AFP/Getty Images Theresa May arrives with her husband Philip May ahead of her speech on the final day of the Conservative Party Conference at The International Convention Centre on October 3, 2018 in Birmingham, England. Getty Images Theresa Mayat the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre, Birmingham. October 3, 2018. PA Prime Minister Theresa May dances a few steps as she takes the stage to give her keynote address on the fourth and final day of the Conservative Party Conference AFP/Getty Images Theresa Mayat the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre, Birmingham. October 3, 2018. AFP/Getty Images Theresa Mayat the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre, Birmingham. October 3, 2018. PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Boris Johnson Mrs May acknowledged a no-deal Brexit would be a "bad outcome for the UK and the EU". "It would be tough at first, but the resilience and ingenuity of the British people would see us through," she said. Defending her Brexit plan, she said it would allow "frictionless trade in goods" while also protecting "our precious Union", with no change at the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland. Mrs May's speech last year was beset by a series of disasters - a prankster served her with a joke P45, she suffered a coughing fit and the letters on the set behind her fell off as she ploughed on with her address. The PM told Tory activists: "Can I just say, you will have to excuse me if I cough during the speech. "I've been up all night super-gluing the backdrop." She used the speech to pay tribute to those who died in the First World War, which ended 100 years ago and also highlighted the efforts to rebuild in the wake of the Second World War "where former enemies become friends". Mrs May said: "We must recapture that spirit of common purpose because the lesson of that remarkable generation is clear: if we come together there is no limit to what we can achieve. Our future is in our hands." She also joked: "It's not always glamorous. I have seen the trailers for Bodyguard - and let me tell you it was not like that in my day." The PM highlighted abuse faced by politicians, including the high volume of racist and misogynistic messages sent to shadow home secretary Diane Abbott. Expand Close Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond arrives with staff from the hotel to the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, central England, on October 3, 2018 on the fourth and final day of the Conservative Party Conference 2018. AFP/Getty Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond arrives with staff from the hotel to the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, central England, on October 3, 2018 on the fourth and final day of the Conservative Party Conference 2018. She said: "You don't have to agree with a word Diane Abbott says (in order) to believe passionately in her right to say it free from threats and abuse." Mrs May warned polarised politics can result in "good people being put off" public service, adding: "It doesn't have to be this way." She added: "Let's rise above the abuse, let's make a positive case for our values that will cut through the bitterness and bile that is poisoning our politics - and let's say it loud and clear, Conservatives will always stand up for a politics that unites us rather than divides us." Expand Close Michael Gove and Esther McVey (R) arrive at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, central England, on October 3, 2018 on the fourth and final day of the Conservative Party Conference. AFP/Getty Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Michael Gove and Esther McVey (R) arrive at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, central England, on October 3, 2018 on the fourth and final day of the Conservative Party Conference. The Prime Minister used the speech to lash out at Labour, highlighting the anti-Semitism row which has hit the party under Jeremy Corbyn. "What has befallen Labour is a national tragedy," she said. "What has it come to when Jewish families today seriously discuss where they should go if Jeremy Corbyn becomes prime minister? When a leading Labour MP says his party is 'institutionally racist'? "When the leader of the Labour Party is happy to appear on Iranian state TV but attacks our free media here in Britain? That is what Jeremy Corbyn has done to the Labour Party. It is our duty, in this Conservative Party, to make sure he can never do it to our country." Tthe Conservatives would be "a party for the whole country". Expand Close Andrea Leadsom arrives ahead of British Prime Minister Theresa May's speech on the final day of the Conservative Party Conference at The International Convention Centre on October 3, 2018 in Birmingham, England. Getty Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Andrea Leadsom arrives ahead of British Prime Minister Theresa May's speech on the final day of the Conservative Party Conference at The International Convention Centre on October 3, 2018 in Birmingham, England. She said: "A party not for the few, not even for the many, but for everyone who is willing to work hard and do their best." The Conservatives "must be a party that is not in thrall to ideology, but motivated instead by enduring principles". The Prime Minister said her principles could be summed up in three words: security, freedom and opportunity. An American tourist whose husband died saving her life in the Westminster Bridge attack has sent love and compassion to the family of his killer Khalid Masood. Speaking to the Press Association from her home in Utah, Melissa Cochran said she can only imagine the heartbreak they feel at the murders the terrorist committed. I want to express my deepest love and compassion to all of the (victims) families, to all of those who helped in any way that they could after the attack, she said. I can only imagine the heartbreak they are feeling knowing that their father or their husband or son committed such atrocitiesMelissa Cochran I want to express love and compassion to those who had to relive those events by testifying, I know that was very hard for some people. I also want to express love and compassion for Masoods family. From what I understand they didnt share his belief system and this was not something that any of them obviously wanted to happen, they were obviously shocked when it did happen. I can only imagine the heartbreak they are feeling knowing that their father or their husband or son committed such atrocities. I just know in my heart that love and compassion and kindness wins over. Expand Close CCTV image of Kurt and Melissa Cochran walking on to Westminster Bridge (Metropolitan Police/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp CCTV image of Kurt and Melissa Cochran walking on to Westminster Bridge (Metropolitan Police/PA) Mrs Cochran and her husband Kurt were on a European sightseeing trip to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary when they visited London on March 22 last year. They had walked across Westminster Bridge and were planning to sit on a bench by the water and people watch before returning to Westminster Abbey for a tour. But instead they were caught up in carnage. Passionate musician Kurt was hit by a hire car driven by Masood and killed. Mrs Cochran, who was injured in the attack, remembers little of what happened. She said: From what I have read and heard from the testimonies, Kurt saw the car coming, which I didnt until the very last second, and he pushed me almost completely out of the way. I did get hit by the car, but just enough to save my life. In Kurt doing so he stepped in front of the car and was killed. She said it was typical of her partner to have instinctively acted to protect her. It doesnt surprise me in the least knowing that he did that. Obviously hes my heroMelissa Cochran He was such a compassionate, caring person, Id like to think it was only me he would have done that for, simply from how much he loved me, but he would have done that to a complete stranger. He just really had such compassion for his fellow human beings. It doesnt surprise me in the least knowing that he did that. Obviously hes my hero. It was a fairytale relationship to every cliche extreme. People write about it in books but I was living it. We just had such a great relationship and wed had such a great time on our travels through Europe, we were just in such a good place. The wonderful father-of-two, whose sons are 28 and 32, had more than 25 nieces and nephews. Mrs Cochran said: Obviously every aspect of our lives has changed. Theres not a day that goes by that we dont think about him. His death left a huge gaping hole in our hearts and in the fabric of our family, even in the fabric of our community. We certainly cling to our loved ones a little more closely nowadays. Life is precious. We prioritise things that really matter and things that dont. Her leg was badly injured in the attack, and the flight to London for the inquest caused problems with the limb. In a cruel twist of fate, this meant she had to go back to St Marys Hospital, where she had been treated after the attack. While in the capital she also bravely went back to Westminster Bridge. I was with my sister (Angela Stoll) and we just held hands and walked across the bridge. We cried but I felt very calm and peaceful. I cant explain that really, except that I could just feel love and it was OK. It was obviously very difficult but I needed to do it for my healing. She thanked the coroner and his legal team for their work, and said she has found the inquest process informative, although it will be a relief when it is finished. Its something that I think about every day as I get out of bed and feel my leg and not have Kurt here with me. Its been something thats kind of being looming over all of us and over our lives so I think finally having the recommendations we will be able to move forward in our lives into the next chapter of our lives. Everyone from London, all over the world, London especially, have been so gracious and kind and loving to me and Im just eternally grateful for all of the support that Ive had from so many people. Its hugely difficult but its a lot easier knowing theres so many people out there who are wishing me well and the other victims and their families. The Regina Seaways vessel was built in 2010 and can carry up to 500 passengers (DFDS A/S via AP) A ferry stranded in the Baltic Sea for about six hours with an estimated 300 people on board has safely reached its destination, port authorities say. The ferry, operated by Copenhagen-based DFDS Seaways, was in international waters off Kaliningrad, a Russian coastal enclave between Poland and Lithuania, when the engine stopped working. Smoke poured out of the engine room and triggered the fire extinguisher inside the room, the ferry operator said. The breakdown paralysed the boat for about six hours. Port spokeswoman Dovile Ringis told reporters the ferry reached the Lithuanian port of Klaipeda at 9.30pm, powered by its own engines despite strong wind and waves. It was escorted by Lithuanian navy ships dispatched as a precaution with emergency crews on hand at the port, she said. Earlier, passengers had assembled at muster stations in preparation for a possible evacuation, and rescue ships were scrambled as a precaution. But an evacuation order never came, and there were no reports of injuries. We are talking about a malfunction in the engine room that caused a lot of smoke, DFDS spokesman Gert Jakobsen said. The ferry, which also carried cars and trucks, was traveling from Kiel, Germany, to Klaipeda, which is north of Kaliningrad. The crossing normally takes about 20 hours. We are talking about a malfunction in the engine room that caused a lot of smokeDFDS spokesman Gert Jakobsen On these kinds of crossings we have people from Germany, the Baltic countries and Russia. We cannot say now who was onboard, Mr Jakobsen said. The ship is about 85 kilometres (50 miles) from Klaipeda, said Vaidas Klumbys, another DFDS spokesman. He said on Tuesday afternoon: We received the information from the ship that it was undergoing vibrations and smoke rising from the engines. Russian state news agency Tass quoted Andrei Permyakov, head of the sea rescue co-ordination centre in Kaliningrad, as saying that rescuers from Lithuania, Russia and Poland responded. Lithuanias navy said one of its helicopters and three navy vessels were sent to the site in case an evacuation was necessary. The regional news agency Baltic News Services quoted Mr Klumbys as saying the weather conditions are not good. Mr Jakobsen was not aware of any rescue operation, saying there was no evacuation. But in this kind of situation, everyone steps in, he said. The Regina Seaways was built in 2010 and can carry up to 500 passengers. The fatal shooting of a 22-year-old former beauty queen, fashion model and social media star has shocked Iraq. Tara Fares, who won fame as much for her outspoken social media comments on personal freedom as her daring outfits in the conservative, Muslim-majority country, was shot dead at the wheel of her Porsche in Baghdad. She was killed last week in broad daylight by a man who leaned into her car and opened fire before escaping on a motorcycle with an accomplice. Expand Close Tara Fares had gathered millions of social media followers (AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Tara Fares had gathered millions of social media followers (AP) The shooting, caught on security camera video, followed the killing of a female activist in the southern city of Basra and the mysterious deaths of two well-known beauty experts. The violence has raised fears of a return to the kind of attacks on prominent figures that plagued the country at the height of its sectarian strife. Iraq is still recovering from its fight against Islamic State militants. The country has been without a government since national elections in May, and riots have repeatedly broken out in the south over the authorities failure to provide basic services. Iraqi human rights activist Hana Adwar said: These harrowing crimes are worrying us. There are groups that want to terrify society through the killing of popular women and activists and to tell other women to abandon their work and stay at home. Expand Close A protest takes place at the scene of the assassination of Iraqi activist Soad al-Ali (AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A protest takes place at the scene of the assassination of Iraqi activist Soad al-Ali (AP) It is not clear whether the deaths of the women are connected, and reports that they knew each other could not be confirmed. Ms Fares, who had an Iraqi father and a Lebanese mother, first became famous in 2015 when she won an unofficial Baghdad beauty pageant organised by a social club. She became a social media darling, attracting 2.2 million followers with bold posts and photos of herself wearing make-up, jeans and blouses that showed off her tattoos. A YouTube channel drew more than 120,000 followers in addition to those on Instagram, where she shared make-up tips. She gave details of a brief marriage at 16 to an abusive husband who posted intimate photos of her on social media and took away their now three-year-old son. Fares said the experience taught her strength and how not to let anyone control me in anything. Ms Fares also spoke out occasionally against religious, tribal and political leaders. While many young Iraqis shared her videos and pictures, others criticised her lifestyle as provocative and un-Islamic. Expand Close An Iraqi activist covers her face in Basra (AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp An Iraqi activist covers her face in Basra (AP) She lived in Iraqs self-ruled Kurdish region with her family, visiting Baghdad from time to time. In a TV interview this year, she said her family had converted to Islam in 2002. Hours after she was gunned down on September 27, a video on social media showed her body being carried away by a group of young people, with her face and white shirt stained with blood. She was buried in the Shia holy city of Najaf. In August, Dr Rafeef al-Yassiri, a plastic surgeon labelled Iraqs Barbie who also posted images of herself on social media, died under mysterious circumstances. Authorities initially called it a drug overdose but have not offered an update in over a month, leading to rumours she might have been poisoned. A week after her death, Rasha al-Hassan, the owner of a well-known beauty centre in Baghdad, was found dead in her home. Authorities initially said she had suffered a heart attack. Expand Close Ms Fares was buried in Najaf (AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Ms Fares was buried in Najaf (AP) On September 25, a gunman killed Soad al-Ali, a prominent activist in the southern city of Basra. Ms al-Ali had organised protests demanding better services and jobs and decried the growing influence of Iran-backed Shia militias in the area. Police said the killing was purely personal and had nothing to do with the protests. Last weekend, another former beauty queen, Shaimaa Qassim, posted a video on Instagram in which she tearfully said she had received threats through social media. Iraqi prime minister Haider al-Abadi has ordered an investigation into what he called well-planned kidnappings and killings. He said organised groups are carrying out a plan to destabilise the security situation under the pretext of fighting perversion. Security agencies have not yet commented on the investigation into Ms Fares death and no group has claimed responsibility. The Trump administration has said it is terminating a decades-old treaty affirming friendly relations between the US and Iran in response to a UN court order. The move is a largely symbolic gesture that highlights deteriorating relations between Washington and Tehran. Secretary of state Mike Pompeo said withdrawing from the 1955 Treaty of Amity was long overdue and followed Iran groundlessly bringing a complaint with the International Court of Justice challenging US sanctions on the basis that they were a violation of the treaty. Expand Close Judges enter the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands (Peter Dejong/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Judges enter the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands (Peter Dejong/AP) The Iranians have ignored the treaty for an awfully long time, Mr Pompeo told reporters. We ought to have pulled out of it decades ago, he added. The treaty was signed when America and Iran were allies after the 1953 revolution, fomented by Britain and the US, that ultimately cemented the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Diplomatic relations were severed following Irans Islamic Revolution in 1979 and the takeover of the US embassy and ensuing hostage crisis. Nonetheless, the treaty remains in force. Mr Pompeo said the practical fallout from the US decision to withdraw remains to be seen. This marked a useful point for us to demonstrate the absolute absurdity of the treaty, he said. On Wednesday, the UNs highest court ordered the United States to lift sanctions on Iran that affect imports of humanitarian goods and products and services linked to civil aviation safety. Expand Close Mohammed Zahedin Labbaf, third left, of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the US delegation, right, listen to the ruling of the judges at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands (Peter Dejong/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Mohammed Zahedin Labbaf, third left, of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the US delegation, right, listen to the ruling of the judges at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands (Peter Dejong/AP) President Donald Trump moved to restore tough US penalties in May after withdrawing from Tehrans nuclear accord with world powers. Iran challenged the sanctions in a case filed in July at the court. In a preliminary ruling, the court said Washington must remove, by means of its choosing, any impediments arising from the reimposition of sanctions to the export to Iran of medicine and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities and spare parts and equipment necessary to ensure the safety of civil aviation. By limiting the order to sanctions covering humanitarian goods and the civil aviation industry, the ruling did not go as far as Iran had requested. Username: Password: or Register Thread Rating: 1 Vote(s) - 5 Average 1 2 3 4 5 Page: 1 2 3 Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 465830 10-03-2018 08:51 PM Post: #16 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle Advertisement spo snouou Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:50 PM) LoP Guest Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:47 PM) See the dancin' nana next to the thread title? Nobody is crying... Only you cunts when Hillary lost link to image: https://i.imgur.com/7beQQGt.jpg I know! Remember all of those delicious tears on,election night! I know! Remember all of those delicious tears on,election night! LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 465892 10-03-2018 08:51 PM Post: #17 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle Donny Jr got refused dinner service. Wahh Wahh Wahh WahhDonny Jr got refused dinner service.Wahh Wahh GrimShaw Asinus Asinum Fricat User ID: 465665 10-03-2018 08:52 PM Posts: 32,569 Post: #18 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle LoP Guest Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:49 PM) GrimShaw Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:46 PM) Reichers when Obama was POTUS: "GOD OBAMA IS THE WORST PRESIDENT EVER BECAUSE HE'S SO DIVISIVE!" Reichers now: "GOD TRUMP IS THE GREATEST PRESIDENT EVER BECAUSE HE'S SO DIVISIVE!" Your savior was the beginning of it. Now the todes have turned, we'll rub salt in your wounds like you did us when gas was over $4/gal and markets were horrendous Two wrongs make a right never. You're a miserable twat and you want other people to be miserable like you. Misery loves company. You're mentally ill. And I say you're mentally ill with confidence. How many times have you been banned from LOP in the past month? 120 times? 150? Two wrongs make a right never. You're a miserable twat and you want other people to be miserable like you. Misery loves company. You're mentally ill. And I say you're mentally ill with confidence. How many times have you been banned from LOP in the past month? 120 times? 150? (This post was last modified: 10-03-2018 08:52 PM by GrimShaw .) LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 465830 10-03-2018 08:52 PM Post: #19 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle Well... GTG for awhile, keep bumping the thread! (In typical liberal fashion, attack while my back,is turned) Tears may fall LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 450686 10-03-2018 08:53 PM Post: #20 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle LoP Guest Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:51 PM) spo snouou Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:50 PM) link to image: https://i.imgur.com/7beQQGt.jpg I know! Remember all of those delicious tears on,election night! Of course he does. He's still crying about it daily. Of course he does. He's still crying about it daily. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 465830 10-03-2018 08:54 PM Post: #21 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle GrimShaw Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:52 PM) LoP Guest Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:49 PM) Your savior was the beginning of it. Now the todes have turned, we'll rub salt in your wounds like you did us when gas was over $4/gal and markets were horrendous Two wrongs make a right never. You're a miserable twat and you want other people to be miserable like you. Misery loves company. You're mentally ill. And I say you're mentally ill with confidence. How many times have you been banned from LOP in the past month? 120 times? 150? Much more than that because you cunts hate a little challenge and ruffled feathers. Your safespace doesnt exist when we have time to troll your asses. Seriously... I have to go. Much more than that because you cunts hate a little challenge and ruffled feathers.Your safespace doesnt exist when we have time to troll your asses.Seriously... I have to go. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 465866 10-03-2018 08:56 PM Post: #22 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle Not exactly. They said they wanted to remain politically neutral. Who could blame them in this rediculous environment? LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 465892 10-03-2018 08:57 PM Post: #23 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle GrimShaw Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:52 PM) LoP Guest Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:49 PM) Your savior was the beginning of it. Now the todes have turned, we'll rub salt in your wounds like you did us when gas was over $4/gal and markets were horrendous Two wrongs make a right never. You're a miserable twat and you want other people to be miserable like you. Misery loves company. You're mentally ill. And I say you're mentally ill with confidence. How many times have you been banned from LOP in the past month? 120 times? 150? Spot On. You can sense the desperation and miserableness in his replies. Trying to bring others down to his lower vibration miserable self. Spot On.You can sense the desperation and miserableness in his replies.Trying to bring others down to his lower vibration miserable self. Isabella Registered User User ID: 421592 10-03-2018 09:01 PM Posts: 26,981 Post: #24 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle LOP MAGA Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:31 PM) Those close to controversial President Donald Trump continue to face difficulties eating in public. In June, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders was kicked out of the Red Hen restaurant in Virginia and Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen was chased out of a Mexican restaurant in Washington, DC. ADVERTISEMENT Now, President Trumps eldest child is having problems securing a barstool in Montana. On Tuesday, Republican Matt Rosendales campaign announced that Donald Trump, Jr. and his girlfriend, former Fox News personality Kimberly Guilfoyle would be campaigning in Bozeman, Montana https://www.rawstory.com/2018/09/just-no...guilfoyle/ Bullshit just keeps spinning. This has zilch to do with being refused service/dining. "The Rosendale campaign announced Trumps namesake son and Guilfoyle would speak at the Midtown Tavern next Tuesday. But, as the Bozeman Daily Chronicle reports, the pair are not welcome. We definitely dont want to take political sides, manager Jeff Wilcox told the newspaper. Thats just not who we are, he explained. We just try to stay politically neutral. Bullshit just keeps spinning.This has zilch to do with being refused service/dining."The Rosendale campaign announced Trumps namesake son and GuilfoyleBut, as the Bozeman Daily Chronicle reports, the pair are not welcome.manager Jeff Wilcox told the newspaper.Thats just not who we are, he explained. We just try to stay politically neutral. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 465830 10-03-2018 09:03 PM Post: #25 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle Isabella Wrote: (10-03-2018 09:01 PM) LOP MAGA Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:31 PM) Those close to controversial President Donald Trump continue to face difficulties eating in public. In June, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders was kicked out of the Red Hen restaurant in Virginia and Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen was chased out of a Mexican restaurant in Washington, DC. ADVERTISEMENT Now, President Trumps eldest child is having problems securing a barstool in Montana. On Tuesday, Republican Matt Rosendales campaign announced that Donald Trump, Jr. and his girlfriend, former Fox News personality Kimberly Guilfoyle would be campaigning in Bozeman, Montana https://www.rawstory.com/2018/09/just-no...guilfoyle/ Bullshit just keeps spinning. This has zilch to do with being refused service/dining. "The Rosendale campaign announced Trumps namesake son and Guilfoyle would speak at the Midtown Tavern next Tuesday. But, as the Bozeman Daily Chronicle reports, the pair are not welcome. We definitely dont want to take political sides, manager Jeff Wilcox told the newspaper. Thats just not who we are, he explained. We just try to stay politically neutral. RAWSTORY IS A LIBERAL WEBSITE FOR liberals, BY LIBERALS RAWSTORY IS A LIBERAL WEBSITE FOR liberals, BY LIBERALS Isabella Registered User User ID: 421592 10-03-2018 09:27 PM Posts: 26,981 Post: #26 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle LoP Guest Wrote: (10-03-2018 09:03 PM) Isabella Wrote: (10-03-2018 09:01 PM) Bullshit just keeps spinning. This has zilch to do with being refused service/dining. "The Rosendale campaign announced Trumps namesake son and Guilfoyle would speak at the Midtown Tavern next Tuesday. But, as the Bozeman Daily Chronicle reports, the pair are not welcome. We definitely dont want to take political sides, manager Jeff Wilcox told the newspaper. Thats just not who we are, he explained. We just try to stay politically neutral. RAWSTORY IS A LIBERAL WEBSITE FOR liberals, BY LIBERALS Your point being? btw, this is OLD news reported correctly at the time by Rawstory and the venue was changed. The Latest: Rosendale changes site of Trump Jr. rally Posted: Sep 19, 2018 7:58 PM EDT Updated: Sep 19, 2018 7:58 PM EDT BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) - The Latest on Donald Trump Jr.'s Montana rally (all times local): 5 http://www.kulr8.com/story/39124856/the-...p-jr-rally Your point being?btw, this is OLD news reported correctly at the time by Rawstory and the venue was changed.Posted: Sep 19, 2018 7:58 PM EDTUpdated:BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) - The Latest on Donald Trump Jr.'s Montana rally (all times local): LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 450686 10-03-2018 09:29 PM Post: #27 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle Isabella Wrote: (10-03-2018 09:27 PM) LoP Guest Wrote: (10-03-2018 09:03 PM) RAWSTORY IS A LIBERAL WEBSITE FOR liberals, BY LIBERALS Your point being? That was the point. Try and keep up. That was the point. Try and keep up. Sing-I'llSway Equal Opportunity Skeptic User ID: 418032 10-03-2018 09:33 PM Posts: 7,576 Post: #28 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle LOP MAGA Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:31 PM) Those close to controversial President Donald Trump continue to face difficulties eating in public. In June, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders was kicked out of the Red Hen restaurant in Virginia and Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen was chased out of a Mexican restaurant in Washington, DC. ADVERTISEMENT Now, President Trumps eldest child is having problems securing a barstool in Montana. On Tuesday, Republican Matt Rosendales campaign announced that Donald Trump, Jr. and his girlfriend, former Fox News personality Kimberly Guilfoyle would be campaigning in Bozeman, Montana https://www.rawstory.com/2018/09/just-no...guilfoyle/ Yeah, this is counter-productive. Personally I think Donald Trump Jr. is an even bigger asshole than his dad. But you gotta let people eat. You gotta let people, in public, live their lives. We can't start discriminating against each other, in restaurants of all places, because we disagree politically. It's not activism and it's not politics. It's basically just being a dick. And I don't see any value in that. If Donald Trump Jr. had walked into my bar I would served him well with competence and courtesy. God-willing the bork bork prick would've learned a thing or 2 about human decency as a result. Kicking him out just reinforces his (and the people who think like him) worst inclinations. And we lose the moral highground. Yeah, this is counter-productive.Personally I think Donald Trump Jr. is an even bigger asshole than his dad.But you gotta let people eat. You gotta let people, in public, live their lives. We can't start discriminating against each other, in restaurants of all places, because we disagree politically.It's not activism and it's not politics. It's basically just being a dick.And I don't see any value in that.If Donald Trump Jr. had walked into my bar I would served him well with competence and courtesy.God-willing the bork bork prick would've learned a thing or 2 about human decency as a result. Kicking him out just reinforces his (and the people who think like him) worst inclinations.And we lose the moral highground. God gave Moses the rainbow sign, no more water, but fire next time Sing-I'llSway Equal Opportunity Skeptic User ID: 418032 10-03-2018 09:37 PM Posts: 7,576 Post: #29 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle Isabella Wrote: (10-03-2018 09:01 PM) LOP MAGA Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:31 PM) Those close to controversial President Donald Trump continue to face difficulties eating in public. In June, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders was kicked out of the Red Hen restaurant in Virginia and Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen was chased out of a Mexican restaurant in Washington, DC. ADVERTISEMENT Now, President Trumps eldest child is having problems securing a barstool in Montana. On Tuesday, Republican Matt Rosendales campaign announced that Donald Trump, Jr. and his girlfriend, former Fox News personality Kimberly Guilfoyle would be campaigning in Bozeman, Montana https://www.rawstory.com/2018/09/just-no...guilfoyle/ Bullshit just keeps spinning. This has zilch to do with being refused service/dining. "The Rosendale campaign announced Trumps namesake son and Guilfoyle would speak at the Midtown Tavern next Tuesday. But, as the Bozeman Daily Chronicle reports, the pair are not welcome. We definitely dont want to take political sides, manager Jeff Wilcox told the newspaper. Thats just not who we are, he explained. We just try to stay politically neutral. Oh, sh*t. Lookit me. Falling prey to.....dare I say, fake news. Good grab, Isabella. So this has nothing to do with certain-of-my-fellow-excitable-leftists acting like assholes (which some have been lately...). This has everything to do with propaganda. Ironically coming from conservatives who have been parroting the toxic, un-American "fake news"-meme with utter shamelessness. Ironic. And scary. Oh, sh*t.Lookit me. Falling prey to.....dare I say,Good grab, Isabella. So this has nothing to do with certain-of-my-fellow-excitable-leftists acting like assholes (which some have been lately...).This has everything to do withIronically coming from conservatives who have been parroting the toxic, un-American "fake news"-meme with utter shamelessness.Ironic. And scary. God gave Moses the rainbow sign, no more water, but fire next time Blastbeat Industries Registered User User ID: 453134 10-03-2018 10:01 PM Posts: 1,695 Post: #30 RE: Montana tavern refuses Donald Trump, Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle LoP Guest Wrote: (10-03-2018 08:40 PM) Poor rich boy. Life must be rough for him. No kidding. FULL DISCLOSURE: I really, really, really want to bang Kimberly Guilfoyle. No kidding.FULL DISCLOSURE: I really, really, really want to bang Kimberly Guilfoyle. Kanye West used to be the real vice-president. Censorship is still un-American. Advertisement Baroness Nuala O'Loan is an extraordinary individual, who has made and continues to make a very significant contribution to public life in Northern Ireland. As a lecturer in law at the University of Ulster in 1977 she was a victim of a terrorist bomb explosion aimed at killing former Lord Chief Justice Lord McDermott. Several years later, in 1999, just before the establishment of the PSNI, she became the Police Ombudsman. Her role was crucial to building confidence in the fledgling police service. In 2009 she was elevated to the House of Lords, where she sits as a crossbencher. In January of this year Baroness O'Loan's Conscientious Objection (Medical Activities) Bill 2018 passed its second reading in the House of Lords and is now going through its committee stage. This Bill was introduced by her in response to the decision in 2014 by the Supreme Court in the Scottish midwives case. In that case two long-serving midwives, Mary Doogan and Connie Wood, worked as ward co-ordinators in the South General Glasgow Hospital. Both were Catholics who had religious and moral objections to having any involvement at all in the process of abortion. They were able to avoid such involvement until a reorganisation in maternity services in Glasgow increased the number of abortions to be carried out in the labour ward. At that point the two midwives asked their employers for a reassurance that their conscientious objection to abortion would be respected and accommodated. Ironically, it was the Abortion Act 1967 (section 4) that introduced the statutory right to conscientious objection. At the time of introduction of the Abortion Act it was put into the legislation to protect medical practitioners in the fields of obstetrics and gynaecology from being forced to carry out abortions. As result of all of this a serious dispute ensued between the midwives and hospital management. The real issue boiled down to the midwives' conscientious objection to being involved in delegating, supervising or supporting staff to participate in and provide care to patients throughout the termination process. The matter went to law and the Scottish Court of Session, the highest court in Scotland, decided in their favour. The Scottish judges decided that they were entitled to the protection afforded by the Abortion Act. But the hospital then appealed to the UK Supreme Court, which overturned the decision of the Scottish court. The Supreme Court looked at this case as a matter of statutory interpretation. The court was of the view that the words "participate in" should be narrowly interpreted and that "participate" meant taking part in a "hands-on" capacity. The judges said that it was unlikely that, in enacting the conscience clause, Parliament had in mind the administrative and ancillary tasks that may be associated with providing abortion. This result meant that conscientious objection was restricted merely to those directly involved in a "hands-on" capacity. O'Loan's Bill, therefore, is an attempt to remedy that decision by the Supreme Court. It should be kept in mind that the Supreme Court took pains to say that it was simply interpreting what section 4 meant. It refused to express any wider view on the substantive issue of conscientious objection. Clearly, therefore, it is open for Parliament to change the law to make certain that conscientious objection is available to a wider range of medical practitioners other than those who have a hands-on role in abortion. And, of course, O'Loan's timely Bill is not just confined to those expressing conscientious objection about abortion, but other issues including euthanasia and assisted suicide, or the withdrawal of hydration or nutrition from an acutely ill patient. While, on a good day, the Bill might just pass through the Lords, sadly it is improbable that it would be passed by the House of Commons, dominated as it is by a pro-abortion majority, who fear conscientious objection interfering with the provision of abortion in Britain. That fear is ill-founded, as the National Health Service carries out only 60,000 abortions per year as opposed to the 140,000 carried out by private abortion clinics like Marie Stopes. There are huge challenges ahead for medical practitioners over conscientious objection, not just on the issue of abortion but also in the near future on euthanasia and assisted suicide and other life and death issues that may emerge. Whatever your view may be on abortion, or other life and death issues, it is crucial in a democratic society that the conscientious objection of those involved in the medical treatment of any kind be protected and firmly upheld. While O'Loan's Bill might not become law soon, it serves to highlight this important issue for us all. The only surprise about Arlene Foster saying the Good Friday Agreement is 'not sacrosanct' is that people were surprised. The 1998 deal has always been the agreement that dare not speak its name in DUP circles. Whilst 71% of Northern Ireland's voters were saying 'yes' in 1998, 70% of DUP members were voting 'no'. Read More And more than a decade-and-a-half later, almost three-quarters of the DUP membership said they would vote no again, in the event of another referendum on the Good Friday Agreement. Arlene Foster jumped from the pro-Agreement UUP to the DUP partly because she was never comfortable with the deal. So those startled by her utterances must be suffering from amnesia. The DUP's conversion to tacit - but never avowed - support for the Good Friday Agreement was only on the basis that Ian Paisley wanted to be First Minister. So, hey presto, the rules were changed at St Andrews in 2006 - with the subtlety of a sledgehammer - to allow the largest party in the largest designation - the DUP, funnily enough - to nominate for that post, without anything as troubling as cross-community approval being required. Most of the other changes at St Andrews - with the notable exception of Sinn Fein's movement towards supporting the PSNI - were minor. They involved such items as the introduction of a ministerial code to improve governance. That's gone well. Foster is correct in claiming that the rules of the Good Friday Agreement are not written in stone. Some of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 was replaced by new legislation after St Andrews. However, those changes related mainly to internal power-sharing arrangements within Northern Ireland, updating the multi-party agreement reached in 1998. The Good Friday Agreement is also an inter-state treaty between Britain and Ireland registered at the United Nations. Some breaches of the Good Friday Agreement are inevitable as a consequence of Brexit - which is backed by two-thirds of DUP voters. Strand 2 of the Agreement requires the North-South Ministerial Council to take account of EU policies, implement them as appropriate and be represented at EU meetings. Is that really possible when one half of the Council will be outside of the EU from next March? Ask a UK government minister - I have - what is proposed in respect of these redundant text sections of Strand 2 - and you get a shrug. They have no idea - and it's not even clear that they truly care. And the Irish government - 94% yes vote in the Republic in 1998 remember - is hardly going to start producing a new agreement to help the British take account of changed realities. So perhaps both governments will simply pretend they haven't noticed those awkward sections of the Agreement that no longer make sense. Strands 1 and 3 of the Good Friday Agreement are less directly affected, but the right of citizens in Northern Ireland to full Irish citizenship is compromised by that citizenship being beyond the EU. The bigger question raised by Foster is perhaps not whether the Good Friday Agreement is sacrosanct but whether it is alive. Devolved power-sharing has collapsed. The North-South Ministerial Council is not meeting. The British-Irish Council is in abeyance. That's three strands of a three-stranded agreement that are not working. So the Agreement is in serious trouble. But, as in 1998, we are not awash with alternatives. Ulster Bank 10 note design to feature John Clarkes Ulster Glade North coast-man John Clarke may not be well-known to the general public, but his impact on the world of potatoes is such that his work is to be celebrated in Ulster Banks new bank note designs. Born in Ballintoy in 1889, Clarke went on to become a world-recognised expert in the science of potato breeding, producing dozens of varieties, some of which are still widely grown. Indeed, the Maris Piper, the most popular of potatoes, owes much to Clarke, as it was a grandson of one of his varieties. Clarke, who died in 1980, was respected by contemporaries and specialists alike, with experts from Cambridge University visiting him on the north coast to learn from his work. He also won many awards, including the Lord Derby Gold Medal in 1948, the John Snell Medal from the National Institute of Agriculture Botany, Cambridge, in the 1950s, and the Belfast Telegraph Cup for outstanding achievements in agriculture. His first potato, the Ulster Monarch, was certified by the Ministry for Agriculture in 1936, and over the next 51 years, he had 33 varieties certified, of which the first 30 had the prefix Ulster. It is the ground-breaking Ulster Glade which features in Ulster Banks new 10 note, alongside the Irish hare, the Cryptic Wood white butterfly, the Guelder-Rose, and Clydesdale horses. Potato expert, Paul Watt, explains: The Ulster Glade was the first commercial potato variety in the world to have a resistance to a particular kind of pest in the soil. Clarke was the potato equivalent of Harry Ferguson due to his impact and what he brought to Northern Ireland in terms of potato varieties. His legacy lives on as 20-30 percent of potato varieties in western Europe will have genes from John Clarkes potatoes in their background. The new bank notes, which will come into circulation in early 2019, showcase some of Northern Irelands most prevalent flora, as well as key loughs in a clear window at the top, with Strangford featuring on the 5 note and Lower Lough Erne featuring on the 10 note. The first mainline vertical bank notes in the UK and Ireland, they were designed through a collaboration between the bank, a team of local creatives, graphic designers O Street, the printer De La Rue, and people from Northern Ireland. The designs were revealed at an event in Belfast before the summer and the bank is getting ready to bring them into circulation in around six months. They are based on the theme Living in Nature and were developed with a panel of experts, which included botanists, geologists, creatives, business people, academics, and others. The 5 note focuses on Northern Ireland as a place that people pass through and visit, highlighting the importance of the sea and migration. The 10 note focuses on Northern Ireland as a place of growth, both in terms of agriculture and heritage. Find out more about ways you can bank with Ulster Bank here Rescuers pull out bodies from the rubble of the Balaroa housing complex in the quake-devastated Indonesian town of Palu in Central Sulawesi province, Oct. 3, 2018. Mahmud Arif appeared dazed as he recalled the horrifying scene after a massive earthquake struck Indonesias Sulawesi island on Friday and caused the soil in his neighborhood to erupt into torrents of mud. Arif was at work in Petobo village when the massive temblor churned the soil and unleashed horror. I rushed home, but when I got here, the whole housing complex just disappeared, he told BenarNews. I couldnt believe it, but its true. Arif witnessed a phenomenon that seismologists describe as soil liquefaction, when violent shaking turns otherwise solid soil to behave temporarily as viscous liquid, swallowing homes and buildings. Houses here were just sucked into the mud, he said Wednesday. Some houses disappeared, others moved hundreds of meters away. Officials estimate that more than 500 people were buried after entire houses were wiped clear when the magnitude 7.4 quake obliterated Petobo, one of the villages that suffered the most destruction from the temblor that also spawned a tsunami and killed at least 1,400 people on the island. The tsunami that smashed coastal villages did not strike Petobo, which was inland. But liquefaction created massive rifts in the earth in the village, bringing down power lines and flipping cars in some areas where the ground rose several feet. In Balaroa village, about 13 km (8 miles) from Petobo, a neighborhood looks as if it had been bombed heavily. Here everything is destroyed, Warno Ishak, a 46-year-old resident of a housing complex, told BenarNews. No house is intact after the earthquake. Aerial photographs showed the housing complex leveled. Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, spokesman for the National Disaster Management Agency, told reporters in Jakarta that there was no estimate on how many people were buried in Balaroa and Petobo, both in the outskirts of the devastated city of Palu. But he said more than 1,700 houses in Balaroa were destroyed or swallowed by the mud. Victim recovery has been difficult there, Sutopo said. The death toll from the earthquake and subsequent tsunami that struck the province rose to 1,407 on Wednesday, he said, adding that 519 bodies had been buried. Most of the casualties recorded were in the provincial capital Palu, while the scale of the disaster in other affected areas, such as Donggala and Sigi, remained unclear. More than 2,550 were hospitalized with serious injuries and 113 remained missing, Sutopo said. We expect the figures will continue to increase, he said. More than 70,000 people have been displaced and nearly 66,000 houses were damaged. At Palus Mutiara airport, dozens of injured people were awaiting evacuation to the city of Makassar in South Sulawesi province. Many were lying in army camp beds and some wore leg and arm casts. Hospitals in Palu are struggling to cope with the number casualties amid a lack of electricity and fuel. They need treatment but because theres still no electricity, they cant be treated in Palu, said Bambang Sadewo, a military officer supervising the evacuation. About 15 aircraft were scheduled to carry the injured on Wednesday. The ground moved like a blender, survivor says Rifki, one of the patients awaiting evacuation, said he and his wife had been severely injured in the quake. The ground below us suddenly moved like a blender and crushed our feet, he told local news channel Metro TV. Theres no way we can get treatment here. There are no facilities or drugs. We have been given only painkillers. By noon Wednesday, the grim task of pulling bodies from the rubble continued. Rescuers said they had found 10 bodies under the ruins of a collapsed eight-story hotel, Metro TV reported. Aid has begun to arrive, however the pace remained slow because of damaged infrastructure. Longki Djanggola, governor of Central Sulawesi, said fulfilling the needs of the people is paramount. Food supplies, rescue teams, heavy machinery have come gradually, and were coordinating with the central government, he said. But desperation is growing among those who have not received aid, such as the villagers in Donggala, the area closest to the earthquakes epicenter. Dont just pay attention to Palu. We need help too, Sukri, a resident of the Wani II village in Donggala, told BenarNews on Tuesday. News footage showed survivors emptying shops of food and water in Sulawesi, even as Indonesian soldiers have been ordered to fire on looters, a colonel told AFP news service. Indonesian President Joko Jokowi Widodo stands in the location where a housing complex once stood in the Petobo neighborhood of Palu town in Central Sulawesi province, Oct. 3, 2018. [Yayank Stiv/BenarNews] Foreign governments pledge assistance On Tuesday, senior security minister Wiranto said aid was being sent by air, land and sea. He said 26 countries have offered assistance after President Joko Jokowi Widodo authorized the acceptance of international aid. U.S. President Donald Trump offered to provide immediate assistance and pledged to work with the government of Indonesia, according to a White House statement released Tuesday. Trump spoke with Widodo, the statement said, adding the American leader shared his condolences. He offered his support to the victims and their families and acknowledged the Indonesian governments leadership in response to the crisis, it said. At least 150 people remain unaccounted for and believed to be beneath the rubble of collapsed buildings, AP quoted officials as saying. Almost 200,000 people need urgent help according to the United Nations. The Geneva-based International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) tweeted Wednesday that its team members were first to reach Petobo village. Volunteers have recovered 14 bodies and are battling debris and thick mud to find survivors, IFRC said. It also posted its drone video from Petobo showing hundreds of homes buried in mud. At a collapsed church in Sigi Biromaru district, south of Palu city, rescuers described struggling through thick mud to retrieve the bodies of more than 30 children from a bible study group, IFRC spokesman Matthew Cochrane said in a statement issued Tuesday. It took them 1 hours to carry each of the bodies out to nearby ambulances, having to wade through incredibly deep mud, Cochrane said. We wont accept that Local media quoted Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla saying the government would reject any assistance that involved foreign military personnel. We wont accept that. They (the United States) wanted to send a hospital ship. Our hospital ship is enough, Kalla said, according to Kompas.com. Australia will send more than 50 medical professionals to Central Sulawesi as part of an AU$5 million (U.S. $3.6 million) aid package, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne told reporters in Washington on Tuesday. We will be working very closely with the Indonesian government to make sure that the support we are providing is highly targeted she said. Australia earlier said it had provided AU$500,000 (U.S. $360,000) through the Indonesian Red Cross, while the United States announced on Monday that it had released $100,000 in initial disaster assistance. Germany said it was providing 1.5 million euros (U.S. $1.7 million) in emergency aid for the disaster region. Elsewhere on Sulawesi island, the Mount Soputan volcano erupted on Wednesday, sending ash almost 20,000 feet (about 3.7 miles) into the sky, the disaster management agency said. There were no immediate reports of casualties, it said. The alert level for the volcano remained at one level below normal but residents should be wary of the threat of mudflows, which can happen after an eruption, agency spokesman Sutopo said. The volcano lies about 900 km (562 miles) away from the area affected by the earthquake and tsunami. There was no evidence that the quake and volcanic eruption were linked, a geophysicist told reporters. President Joko Jokowi Widodo, visiting the quake-hit zone for a second time on Wednesday, praised the emergency relief effort. Jokowi said about 40 percent of electricity in Palu had been restored and promised that more fuel would be distributed. All post-disaster work, including aid delivery and victim recovery, has been going well, he said. God willing, the government is handling everything with speed." Rosmah Mansor, wife of former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, enters the headquarters of the anti-graft agency MACC in the administrative capital Putrajaya with her lawyer K. Kumaraendran, Oct. 3, 2018. Malaysian authorities arrested the wife of former leader Najib Razak on Wednesday and officials said she will face money-laundering charges in court in connection with the multibillion-dollar 1MDB scandal. Rosmah Mansor, 66, was taken into custody after giving her statement at the headquarters of the Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), where she will spend the night under detention before being charged in court on Thursday, the agencys deputy commissioner, Azam Baki, told BenarNews. Rosmah will face several charges, MACC said in a statement after her arrest that came following her third round of questioning at the anti-graft agency. MACC has been probing allegations that more than $4.5 billion were misappropriated and laundered from the state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Last month, investigators questioned Rosmah for almost 13 hours. Her lawyer, K. Kumaraendran, told reporters he did not know how many charges would be presented against Rosmah. We were not informed on all the charges, so we are not able to tell you, he said. We are also not sure where she is being detained. Rosmahs arrest occurred after investigators questioned her husband, Najib, for more than three hours Wednesday at the anti-money laundering division of the federal police in Kuala Lumpur. Najib evaded a group of journalists awaiting his arrival by taking an alternate entrance. Police did not issue a statement and authorities did not disclose details. The government of Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad intensified its 1MDB probe starting in mid-May after the Barisan Nasional coalition led by Najib was swept from power in the May 9 general election. MACC had earlier questioned Najib about how 2.6 billion ringgit (U.S. $642.6 million) and 42 million ringgit ($10 million) from SRC International, a former subsidiary of 1MDB, had ended up in his personal bank accounts. Najib, who is free on nearly $850,000 in bail, has denied any wrongdoing and claimed that the funds were donated by the Saudi royal family. SRC was under the finance ministrys control in 2012 when Najib served as its minister. Najib faces a total of 32 charges related to the 1MDB corruption probe. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison for the abuse of power counts and up to 15 years for the money laundering charges, lawyers said. Najib founded 1MDB as a sovereign investment fund ostensibly to pursue projects beneficial to Malaysians. But, according to court documents filed by U.S. authorities, the fund was used between 2009 and 2014 to satiate the ostentatious lifestyle of people with power over it. The U.S. DOJ said in court documents that jewelry for Rosmah was purchased with 1MDB funds that passed through Najibs bank account. A diamond necklace set alone cost $27.3 million and was bought in 2013, just months after $680 million was transferred to Najibs private bank account in Kuala Lumpur, according to court filings in July last year. On June 27, police raided a former office and residences linked to Najib and removed 567 designer handbags, hundreds of luxury watches and dozens of suitcases containing cash and 12,000 pieces of jewelry. Authorities said the seized items were valued at $273 million. On Wednesday, Rosmahs daughter, Nooryana Najwa, condemned the anti-graft agencys move. I can accept taking action on a man who was in power but putting the women in his life in harms way is going too far, she posted on Instagram, referring to the arrest of her mother. Mocha Uson, who resigned from her government post on Wednesday, uses her mobile phone to take a photo of President Rodrigo Duterte sometime last year. A divisive blogger who became Philippine President Rodrigo Dutertes top defender on social media resigned from her government post Wednesday after angering legislators who threatened to withhold her agencys budget. Mocha Uson, who has used her Facebook account to prop up Duterte, said she was stepping down as assistant secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO). I am sacrificing myself so the budget of the PCOO would be passed, Uson told legislators, according to a copy of her speech posted on her Facebook account. I have decided to resign. Since assuming office in May 2017, Uson has figured in a series of controversies and often used her Facebook account to stir up criticisms against Dutertes political enemies. Recently, she angered the deaf and mute community by appearing to make fun of their condition when a friend gestured made up sign language in her blog. This came shortly after they appeared on the same platform singing a sexually themed jingle that supposedly was to sell the governments push for federalism. Uson told her critics not to rejoice, warning them that she may have quit her post, but she would continue with what she calls her advocacy. You have long accused me of something. I chose to be quiet in the face of your attacks because I know you can stop the budget of our department, she said. She accused lawmakers of using their position to push for personal agendas and warned them that someday we would face each other. But I wont hide behind my position, like you, she said, without naming anyone. I am prepared to fight like an ordinary Filipino together with the voiceless masses. Universal McCann, a New York-based advertising agency, described the Philippines as the social-networking capital of the world. It said about 83 percent of the countrys 103 million people were known to have social media accounts. Usons phenomenal rise has been aided by racy posts on social media, where she has been known more for posting her sexy dance videos. Sen. J.V. Ejercito stressed that the PCOO has been at the center of controversies but pointed out that Uson was being held to a higher standard because she was a government official. Amid all the public clamor for resignations, behind all the blaming and shaming, sometimes we end up turning against each other instead of helping one another rise from their mistakes and build a spirit of cooperation while others, sadly, just simply give up, Ejercito said. However, let me emphasize that actions of government officials should be held to a higher standard because of the power that you wield, he said. Felipe Villamor in Manila contributed to this report. Philippine and U.S. Marines participate in an amphibious landing exercise, May 9, 2018. Amid reports of a resurgent Islamic State (IS) presence in Southern Philippines, more than 1,300 U.S. and Filipino Marines began joint large-scale anti-terrorism training, officials said Wednesday, The exercises, dubbed Cooperation of Warriors at Sea, scheduled to run until Oct. 10, focuses as well on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, military spokesman Col. Noel Detoyato said. The training falls under the annual Balikatan, or shoulder-to-shoulder, exercises between the defense allies. Detoyato said about 100 Japanese Marines were invited to join as observers in the trainings to be carried out in different parts of Luzon island. The Philippines and U.S. agreed on 281 security cooperation activities for 2019, an increase over 2018, Detoyato said. The allies look forward to ongoing close cooperation in areas central to our national and security interests, including counter-terrorism, Detoyato said. In an assessment released recently, the U.S. State Department listed the Philippines along with Afghanistan, India, Iraq and Pakistan, as among five countries with the most terrorist attacks. Terrorism funds Nikki de la Rosa, leader of the think-tank International Alert Philippines which tracks conflicts, said that while the Marawi crisis is over, militant groups appear to have funding to fuel their terroristic activists as they continue to evade capture. The five-month war in Marawi caused the number of violent conflicts in the province of Lanao del Sur to increase to 942 incidents in 2017 from 514 in 2016. Deaths resulting from these conflicts, rose to 1,358 compared to 310 the previous year. The entire southern Mindanao region remains under military rule and President Rodrigo Duterte has said dozens of militant leaders escaped from Marawi. The survival of extremist groups in Lanao areas and in a sprawling marshland in central Mindanao reinforce the belief that they had access to funds from many sources including shadow economies, de la Rosa said Tuesday. Additionally, remnants of the militant groups blamed for the Marawi siege used kinship networks to expand their resources and evade capture, she said. Apart from IS-affiliated fighters who had escaped from Marawi, other groups, such as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Abu Sayyaf were also fighting the military. Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said government is ready to thwart any additional IS threat in the country. We assure the public that we are in a better position to deal with terrorists. Let them try to sow terror, we are ready to implement the laws of the Philippines, Roque told reporters. Felipe Villamor in Manila contributed to this report. John L. Jamrogowicz is a South Carolina native who has lived in Goose Creek since 1990 and retired from a 26-plus year career at Trident Technical College in 2016. Invisible, perhaps, but real. The Holy Spirit is probably the least understood person of the Trinity. Among the myths and the mistaken concepts that are shared, He has been described as a force, a ghost, and a second-class or replacement god. He is confused with the manifestations themselves, and has even been presented as an incidental figure that appears momentarily. Nothing could be further from the truth. It is vital for the church to know the Spirit, learn to relate to Him, and understand how He manifests Himself. Let's take a look at who the Holy Spirit is. For further study, get your FREE copy of The Power of the Holy Spirit: A Scripture and Prayer Guide HERE. Download and print this e-book to discover the works and power of the Holy Spirit in your own life. 1. The Holy Spirit is a person. 1. Being a person, the Holy Spirit has feelings. He can become sad or angry, and others can insult Him and blaspheme against Him (Is 63:10; Mt 12:31; Ac 7:51; Eph 4:30; Heb 10:29). Yet they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit. So he turned and became their enemy and he himself fought against them. - Isaiah 63:10 And so I tell you, every kind of sin and slander can be forgiven, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. - Matthew 12:31 You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit! - Acts 7:51 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. - Ephesians 4:30 How much more severely do you think someone deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, who has treated as an unholy thing the blood of the covenant that sanctified them, and who has insulted the Spirit of grace? - Hebrews 10:29 2. He has intentions, shows willfulness and discretion, loves, communicates, testifies, teaches, and prays (Neh 9:20; Jn 15:26; Ac 13:2; Rm 8:26,27; 15:30; 1Co 12:11). These are qualities that distinguish Him as a person. You gave your good Spirit to instruct them. You did not withhold your manna from their mouths, and you gave them water for their thirst. - Nehemiah 9:20 When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Fatherthe Spirit of truth who goes out from the Fatherhe will testify about me. - John 15:26 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them. - Acts 13:2 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for Gods people in accordance with the will of God. - Romans 8:26-27 I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. - Romans 15:30 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines. - 1 Corinthians 12:11 Photo Credit: Unsplash There is a definite parallel between the supernatural preparation for the kingdom in history under Moses and the supernatural judgments which shall be poured out upon a rebellious world in preparation for the future Millennial Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ at His second advent. There is the same insolent challenge to the true God on the part of the Gentile powers (Ps. Ps. 2:1-3). There will be a similar gracious but infinitely greater preliminary miracle [like Ex. Ex. 7:12]the Rapture of the Churchwarning men of the supremacy of Jehovah and the ultimate defeat of all who rebel against Him. There will be the same swift progression in the severity of the divine judgments which follow, and even a striking parallel in the nature of the judgments (cf. Rev. Rev. 6:1-17+ through 18). There will be the same victorious outcome, the destruction of the antichrist and his armies in the judgment of Armageddon, and deliverance of the people of Israel (Rev. Rev. 19:1-21+). There will be another song of victory, significantly referred to as the song of Moses. . . and the song of the Lamb (Rev. Rev. 15:1-3+).2 The LORD will utterly destroy the tongue of the Sea of Egypt; with His mighty wind He will shake His fist over the River, and strike it in the seven streams, and make men cross over dry-shod. There will be a highway for the remnant of His people who will be left from Assyria, as it was for Israel in the day that he came up from the land of Egypt. (Isa. Isa. 11:15-16) I will also bring them back from the land of Egypt, and gather them from Assyria. I will bring them into the land of Gilead and Lebanon, until no more room is found for them. He shall pass through the sea with affliction, and strike the waves of the sea: all the depths of the River shall dry up. Then the pride of Assyria shall be brought down, and the scepter of Egypt shall depart. So I will strengthen them in the LORD, and they shall walk up and down in His name, says the LORD. (Zec. Zec. 10:10-12) Notes 1 We disagree with allegorical interpreters who dismiss a literal correspondence between the plagues of Egypt and the Tribulation. Beale is representative of this line of thought: The parallel with Exodus does not supply unambiguous demonstration in support of a literal fulfillment. All that it shows is that the two descriptions are homologous, that is, that they have an essential relation in some manner. But the nature of that relation needs to be determined. Are they homologous in their physical form and effects, or in theological significance, or both? The images depicted certainly refer to actual events on the referential level.. . . In Revelation the fire and hail are to be understood on the symbolic level as representing particular facets of divine judgment that can be drawn out further by thorough exegesis of the theological meaning of this particular Exodus plague. [These] speak of God depriving the ungodly of earthly security.Gregory K. Beale, The Book of Revelation: A Commentary on the Greek Text (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1999), 54. If one reads the Exodus account through the same interpretive lens as Beale, one would likely be led to deny the literal nature of the entire history of the Exodus, much less the plagues. Indeed, many liberal theologians do just that! 1 These are the words Moses spoke to all Israel in the wilderness east of the Jordanthat is, in the Arabahopposite Suph, between Paran and Tophel, Laban, Hazeroth and Dizahab. 2 (It takes eleven days to go from Horeb to Kadesh Barnea by the Mount Seir road.) 3 In the fortieth year, on the first day of the eleventh month, Moses proclaimed to the Israelites all that the LORD had commanded him concerning them. 4 This was after he had defeated Sihon king of the Amorites, who reigned in Heshbon, and at Edrei had defeated Og king of Bashan, who reigned in Ashtaroth. 5 East of the Jordan in the territory of Moab, Moses began to expound this law, saying: 6 The LORD our God said to us at Horeb, You have stayed long enough at this mountain. 7 Break camp and advance into the hill country of the Amorites; go to all the neighboring peoples in the Arabah, in the mountains, in the western foothills, in the Negev and along the coast, to the land of the Canaanites and to Lebanon, as far as the great river, the Euphrates. 8 See, I have given you this land. Go in and take possession of the land the LORD swore he would give to your fathersto Abraham, Isaac and Jacoband to their descendants after them. 9 At that time I said to you, You are too heavy a burden for me to carry alone. 10 The LORD your God has increased your numbers so that today you are as numerous as the stars in the sky. 11 May the LORD, the God of your ancestors, increase you a thousand times and bless you as he has promised! 12 But how can I bear your problems and your burdens and your disputes all by myself? 13 Choose some wise, understanding and respected men from each of your tribes, and I will set them over you. 14 You answered me, What you propose to do is good. 15 So I took the leading men of your tribes, wise and respected men, and appointed them to have authority over youas commanders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties and of tens and as tribal officials. 16 And I charged your judges at that time, Hear the disputes between your people and judge fairly, whether the case is between two Israelites or between an Israelite and a foreigner residing among you. 17 Do not show partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be afraid of anyone, for judgment belongs to God. Bring me any case too hard for you, and I will hear it. 18 And at that time I told you everything you were to do. 19 Then, as the LORD our God commanded us, we set out from Horeb and went toward the hill country of the Amorites through all that vast and dreadful wilderness that you have seen, and so we reached Kadesh Barnea. 20 Then I said to you, You have reached the hill country of the Amorites, which the LORD our God is giving us. 21 See, the LORD your God has given you the land. Go up and take possession of it as the LORD, the God of your ancestors, told you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. 22 Then all of you came to me and said, Let us send men ahead to spy out the land for us and bring back a report about the route we are to take and the towns we will come to. 23 The idea seemed good to me; so I selected twelve of you, one man from each tribe. 24 They left and went up into the hill country, and came to the Valley of Eshkol and explored it. 25 Taking with them some of the fruit of the land, they brought it down to us and reported, It is a good land that the LORD our God is giving us. 26 But you were unwilling to go up; you rebelled against the command of the LORD your God. 27 You grumbled in your tents and said, The LORD hates us; so he brought us out of Egypt to deliver us into the hands of the Amorites to destroy us. 28 Where can we go? Our brothers have made our hearts melt in fear. They say, The people are stronger and taller than we are; the cities are large, with walls up to the sky. We even saw the Anakites there. 29 Then I said to you, Do not be terrified; do not be afraid of them. 30 The LORD your God, who is going before you, will fight for you, as he did for you in Egypt, before your very eyes, 31 and in the wilderness. There you saw how the LORD your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place. 32 In spite of this, you did not trust in the LORD your God, 33 who went ahead of you on your journey, in fire by night and in a cloud by day, to search out places for you to camp and to show you the way you should go. 34 When the LORD heard what you said, he was angry and solemnly swore: 35 No one from this evil generation shall see the good land I swore to give your ancestors, 36 except Caleb son of Jephunneh. He will see it, and I will give him and his descendants the land he set his feet on, because he followed the LORD wholeheartedly. 37 Because of you the LORD became angry with me also and said, You shall not enter it, either. 38 But your assistant, Joshua son of Nun, will enter it. Encourage him, because he will lead Israel to inherit it. 39 And the little ones that you said would be taken captive, your children who do not yet know good from badthey will enter the land. I will give it to them and they will take possession of it. 40 But as for you, turn around and set out toward the desert along the route to the Red Sea. 41 Then you replied, We have sinned against the LORD. We will go up and fight, as the LORD our God commanded us. So every one of you put on his weapons, thinking it easy to go up into the hill country. 42 But the LORD said to me, Tell them, Do not go up and fight, because I will not be with you. You will be defeated by your enemies. 43 So I told you, but you would not listen. You rebelled against the LORDs command and in your arrogance you marched up into the hill country. 44 The Amorites who lived in those hills came out against you; they chased you like a swarm of bees and beat you down from Seir all the way to Hormah. 45 You came back and wept before the LORD, but he paid no attention to your weeping and turned a deaf ear to you. Plus, Bill's Message of the Day, the truth about kids and the COVID-19 vaccine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices For Immediate Release, October 3, 2018 Contact: Clare Lakewood, (510) 844-7121, clakewood@biologicaldiversity.org Senate Boosts Return of Super-polluting Supersonic Planes WASHINGTON The U.S. Senate passed a Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill today with a provision that could facilitate a comeback of highly polluting luxury supersonic planes, which are projected to burn five to seven times more fuel per passenger than typical airliners. Efforts to build the high-speed planes are again underway, despite the Concordes flop decades ago. Its shameful that Congress is trying to resurrect these incredibly dirty planes so rich people can get to business meetings and vacations faster, said Clare Lakewood, a senior attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity. Supersonics are a needless extravagance that will supersize the aviation industrys already hefty contribution to the climate crisis. Todays vote comes after 38 environmental, public-health and community groups successfully called on the Senate to reject a version of the bill that would have lifted a 40-year ban on overland supersonic flight in the United States. But section 181 of the todays bill does require the FAA to start setting certification standards that will let civilian supersonic jets fly in U.S. airspace, and to consider repealing the ban on civilian supersonic flight over U.S. land. The House of Representatives has already passed the bill. Boom Supersonics is developing an airliner it says could fly commercially by 2023. Supersonic business jets are in development by Spike Aerospace and Aerion Supersonic with the goal of being in service by the mid-2020s. A return of supersonic aircraft threatens to worsen aviations contribution to the climate crisis. A recent analysis by the International Council on Clean Transportation found that new commercial supersonic planes will likely emit 70 percent more carbon dioxide than comparable new subsonic airplanes will be allowed to emit. New supersonic airliners will likely exceed subsonic limits for nitrogen oxides by 40 percent, according to the analysis. Exposure to nitrogen oxides is linked to respiratory disease, heart attacks and strokes. International aviation is among the fastest-growing sources of greenhouse gas pollution. Even without supersonic aircraft, the industry is already expected to generate 43 metric gigatons of carbon dioxide through 2050, consuming more than 4 percent of the worlds remaining carbon budget, according to a Center report. This bill forces the FAA to start a rulemaking process for super-polluting planes that just shouldnt be in the air, Lakewood said. Federal aviation officials need to make sure their regulations keep climate-killing supersonic planes out of our airspace and off of our runways. The meeting saw a participation of around 40 startups. Recently, the Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises (ABLE) organized the 6th edition of the Bangalore Biotech Entrepreneurs Meet. Every month such meetings are conducted by the Biotech Startup Group within Bengaluru at different locations to discuss the recent innovations and challenges associated with various biotech startups. During the 6th Bangalore Biotech Entrepreneurs Meet, ABLE President, Shrikumar Suryanarayan pointed out that, India figures high in many global rankings of the startup ecosystem with the presence of more than 1000 innovative companies in various technology sectors. A previous study by ABLE team in early 2017 revealed that there were 1022 startups. It is remarkable that the number of startups in life sciences have jumped by 710 within a year. Collectively, these 1723 companies have attracted investments of $ 3 billion. Two- thirds of the life science startups are in the Bio-Pharma segment. The meeting saw a participation of around 40 startups who took this opportunity well for establishing contacts and networking. Dr Anand Anandkumar, Co-Founder, BugWorks, highlighted the importance of participation by various startups in such meetings and many more where investors also become a part of. Last year, Bugworks became the first company in Asia to receive investment from CARB-X, the US governments main funding vehicle for the fight against superbugs. To provide more information on grant management and fund raising for the startups, Dr Priyankana Mukherjee, Manager, BioNEST, IKP Knowledge Park, Bengaluru spoke on the various facilities available at the incubator. To top it up, Dr Mrutyunjay Suar, Director, KIIT, shared the success stories of a few startups placed at the incubator in Odisha. Towards the end, Dr Jagadish Mittur, Principal Consultant, Biotech, KBITS, informed the startups about the upcoming opportunity at the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2018 to be held from 29th Nov to 1st Dec, 2018 in Bengaluru. The session was concluded by Dr Raja M, Founder & CEO, Genotypic Technology. He encouraged the participants on developing a good network in order to take things forward. Financial technology company First Circle opened up an additional P1.5 billion in funding for small and medium enterprises. The financing product is a partnership between the Department of Trade and Industry and First Circle, according to co-founder and chief technology officer Tony Ennis. The product will be available to all Go Negosyo members nationwide as we also expand our services to cover the entire Philippines, he said. Loans are expected to incur 1.99 percent to 2.49 percent interest per month depending on the creditworthiness of the borrower, on top of the 1.99-percent processing fee. With the partnership of First Circle and DTI, we will be able to tap into the 900+ Go Negosyo Centers of DTI to help promote to SMEs the availability of First Circle loans, said company vice president Benedict Carandang. Borrowers are given one to six months for loan repayment. The fintech company is still in the process of being accredited as a wholesale lending partner of SB Corp.First Circle co-founder and chief executive Patrick Lynch said the company thrived in the empowerment of business owners who were willing to expand their businesses. It is because of our mission alignment that the we have been selected by the Trade Department as their official partner. We can leverage the educational tools and other resources of the department and use our capabilities in distribution to reach more businesses than ever before, Lynch said. The company created a simple application process that allows SMEs to avail of the financial service that is fast, convenient and flexible. First Circle grew its client base in just a span of two years and monitored more than 10,000 invoices. The total value of application was estimated at P3.4 billion, showing the demand exceeded supply, according to the company. PR Newswire AKRON, Ohio, Oct. 3, 2018 AKRON, Ohio, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) today announced a Request for Proposal (RFP) to purchase both Ohio-compliant Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) and Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) for its Ohio utilities Ohio Edison, Cleveland Electric Illuminating and Toledo Edison. The purchases will help meet the utilities' 2018 renewable energy targets established under Ohio's alternative energy law. SRECs and RECs sought in this RFP must be able to be utilized by the utilities for compliance with its 2018 renewable energy obligations in accordance with rules and procedures put forth by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO), be deliverable through PJM-EIS GATS, and generated between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2018. The following amounts are being sought: One SREC represents the environmental attributes of one megawatt hour of generation from a solar renewable generating facility qualified by the PUCO. One REC represents the environmental attributes of one megawatt hour of generation from a PUCO-qualified renewable generating facility. The cost of the RECs is recovered from utility customers through a monthly charge filed quarterly with the PUCO. No energy or capacity will be purchased under the RFP. The number of individual bidders is not limited. Participants in the RFP must meet and maintain specific credit and security qualifications and must be able to prove their SREC or REC generating facilities are certified or in the process of becoming certified by the PUCO. The RFP is a competitive process managed by Navigant Consulting, Inc., an independent evaluator and a global consulting firm with expertise in energy markets, renewables and competitive procurements. Based on the RFP results, the Ohio utilities will enter into agreement(s) with winning suppliers to purchase the necessary quantities of RECs and SRECs. The FirstEnergy Ohio utilities have established a website to provide bidders with a central source of documents, data and other information for the RFP process. This information is available by accessing http://www.FEOhioRECRFP.com. On October 9, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. EPT, the FirstEnergy Ohio utilities and their consultant, Navigant, will conduct a webinar to outline the RFP process and the terms of the agreement, as well as to provide a forum to submit any questions. Questions also may be submitted during the RFP process directly through the RFP website. To participate in the RFP, potential bidders are encouraged to submit credit applications by October 30, 2018, and proposals are due November 6, 2018, by 5 p.m. EPT. The RFP Manager is Dan Bradley, Managing Director, Navigant Consulting, Inc. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected] FirstEnergy is dedicated to safety, reliability and operational excellence. Its 10 electric distribution companies form one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems, serving customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland and New York. The company's transmission subsidiaries operate more than 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. Follow FirstEnergy on Twitter @FirstEnergyCorp or online at www.firstenergycorp.com. Forward-Looking Statements: This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 based on information currently available to management. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These statements include declarations regarding management's intents, beliefs and current expectations. These statements typically contain, but are not limited to, the terms "anticipate," "potential," "expect," "forecast," "target," "will," "intend," "believe," "project," "estimate," "plan" and similar words. Forward-looking statements involve estimates, assumptions, known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, which may include the following: the ability to successfully execute an exit of commodity-based generation that minimizes cash outflows and associated liabilities, including, without limitation, the losses, guarantees, claims and other obligations of FirstEnergy Corp., together with its consolidated subsidiaries (FirstEnergy) as such relate to the entities previously consolidated into FirstEnergy, including FirstEnergy Solutions Corp.(FES), its subsidiaries and FirstEnergy Nuclear Operating Company (FENOC), which have filed for bankruptcy protection; the potential for litigation and payment demands against FirstEnergy by FES, FENOC or their creditors, and the ability to successfully execute a definitive settlement agreement and obtain approvals from the Bankruptcy Court and others necessary for the comprehensive settlement as agreed to in principle; the risks associated with the bankruptcy cases of FES, its subsidiaries and FENOC, including, but not limited to, third-party motions in the cases that could adversely affect FirstEnergy, its liquidity or results of operations; the ability to experience growth in the Regulated Distribution and Regulated Transmission segments and the effectiveness of our strategy to operate as a fully regulated business; the accomplishment of our regulatory and operational goals in connection with our transmission and distribution investment plans; changes in assumptions regarding economic conditions within our territories, assessment of the reliability of our transmission and distribution system, or the availability of capital or other resources supporting identified transmission and distribution investment opportunities; the ability to accomplish or realize anticipated benefits from strategic and financial goals, including, but not limited to, the ability to grow earnings in our regulated businesses, continue to reduce costs through FE Tomorrow, FirstEnergy's initiative launched in late 2016 to identify its optimal organization structure and properly align corporate costs and systems to efficiently support a fully regulated company going forward, and other initiatives, and to successfully execute our financial plans designed to improve our credit metrics and strengthen our balance sheet; the risks and uncertainties associated with litigation, arbitration, mediation and like proceedings; the uncertainties associated with the deactivation of our remaining commodity-based generating units, including the impact on vendor commitments, and as it relates to the reliability of the transmission grid, the timing thereof; costs being higher than anticipated and the success of our policies to control costs; the uncertainty of the timing and amounts of the capital expenditures that may arise in connection with any litigation, including New Source Review litigation, or potential regulatory initiatives or rulemakings; changes in customers' demand for power, including, but not limited to, changes resulting from the implementation of state and federal energy efficiency and peak demand reduction mandates; economic and weather conditions affecting future sales, margins and operations, such as significant weather events, and all associated regulatory events or actions; changes in national and regional economic conditions affecting FirstEnergy and/or our major industrial and commercial customers, and other counterparties with which we do business; the impact of labor disruptions by our unionized workforce; the risks associated with cyber-attacks and other disruptions to our information technology system that may compromise our generation, transmission and/or distribution services and data security breaches of sensitive data, intellectual property and proprietary or personally identifiable information regarding our business, employees, shareholders, customers, suppliers, business partners and other individuals in our data centers and on our networks; the impact of the regulatory process and resulting outcomes on the matters at the federal level and in the various states in which we do business, including, but not limited to, matters related to rates; the impact of the federal regulatory process on Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulated entities and transactions, in particular FERC regulation of PJM Interconnection, L.L.C. (PJM) wholesale energy and capacity markets and cost-of-service rates, as well as FERC's compliance and enforcement activity, including compliance and enforcement activity related to North American Electric Reliability Corporation's mandatory reliability standards; the uncertainties of various cost recovery and cost allocation issues resulting from American Transmission Systems, Incorporated's realignment into PJM; the ability to comply with applicable state and federal reliability standards and energy efficiency and peak demand reduction mandates; other legislative and regulatory changes, including the federal administration's required review and potential revision of environmental requirements, including, but not limited to, the effects of the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Clean Power Plan, Coal Combustion Residuals and Cross-State Air Pollution Rule programs, including our estimated costs of compliance, Clean Water Act (CWA) waste water effluent limitations for power plants, and CWA 316(b) water intake regulation; changing market conditions that could affect the measurement of certain liabilities and the value of assets held in our pension trusts and other trust funds, and cause us and/or our subsidiaries to make additional contributions sooner, or in amounts that are larger, than currently anticipated; the impact of changes to significant accounting policies; the impact of any changes in tax laws or regulations, including the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, adopted December 22, 2017, or adverse tax audit results or rulings; the ability to access the public securities and other capital and credit markets in accordance with our financial plans, the cost of such capital and overall condition of the capital and credit markets affecting us and our subsidiaries; further actions that may be taken by credit rating agencies that could negatively affect us and/or our subsidiaries' access to financing, increase the costs thereof, letters of credit and other financial guarantees, and the impact of these events on the financial condition and liquidity of FirstEnergy Corp. and/or its subsidiaries; issues concerning the stability of domestic and foreign financial institutions and counterparties with which we do business; and the risks and other factors discussed from time to time in our United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, and other similar factors. Dividends declared from time to time on FirstEnergy Corp.'s common stock, and thereby on FirstEnergy Corp.'s preferred stock, during any period may in the aggregate vary from prior periods due to circumstances considered by FirstEnergy Corp.'s Board of Directors at the time of the actual declarations. A security rating is not a recommendation to buy or hold securities and is subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating agency. Each rating should be evaluated independently of any other rating. These forward-looking statements are also qualified by, and should be read together with, the risk factors included in our filings with the SEC, including but not limited to the most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, which risk factors supersede and replace the risk factors contained in the Annual Report on Form 10-K and previous Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q or Current Reports on Form 8-K. The foregoing review of factors also should not be construed as exhaustive. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all such factors, nor assess the impact of any such factor on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. We expressly disclaim any obligation to update or revise, except as required by law, any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/firstenergy-ohio-utilities-launch-request-for-proposal-for-2018-solar-and-renewable-energy-credits-300724062.html SOURCE FirstEnergy Corp. Reciba en su email: noticias de ultima hora, analisis tecnicos o el cierre de mercado Email no valido Nombre requerido Recibira las informaciones mas relevantes del dia en tiempo real Que informacion desea recibir? Noticias de Ultima hora Boletin Cierre de Mercado Boletin analisis tecnico Boletin Fundsnews Debe seleccionar un tipo de boletin Acepto la Politica de privacidad Debe aceptar la politica de privacidad Responsable EMPRESAS DEL GRUPO WEB FINANCIAL GROUP Finalidad La remision de informacion, novedades y promociones Establecimiento o mantenimiento de Relaciones Comerciales. Legitimacion Consentimiento del interesado. Interes legitimo en el desarrollo de la relacion comercial Destinatario Empresas del Grupo WEB FINANCIAL GROUP Derechos Acceso, rectificacion, supresion, limitacion, oposicion y portabilidad Informacion adicional Politica de Privacidad de nuestra pagina Web + INFORMACION Movie tickets in Quezon City to fund Boy Scouts posted October 03, 2018 at 09:25 pm by Rio N. Araja October 03, 2018 at 09:25 pm Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte on Wednesday backed the Boy Scouts of the Philippines through the passage of an ordinance mandating a P1 price increase per movie ticket in all city cinemas this month. The city government is committed to assisting the various programs of the boy scouts since this is one of the citys premier organizations for young people. In celebration of National Scouting Month this October, this is one of the ways we can show our support, Belmonte said. This measure also aims to spread awareness about the importance of the scouting movement and other youth-led activities in the city, she added. According to the ordinance, the activities of the Boy Scouts are aligned with the city governments bid to promote the moral, spiritual and physical well-being of the youth," especially through sports, livelihood, environment, and waste management programs.Theater owners and operators shall turn over the collated funds to the BSP-QC Council along with a report to be submitted to the local treasurer. Quezon City has 11,361 registered Boy Scouts. COMMENT DISCLAIMER: Reader comments posted on this Web site are not in any way endorsed by Manila Standard. Comments are views by manilastandard.net readers who exercise their right to free expression and they do not necessarily represent or reflect the position or viewpoint of manilastandard.net. While reserving this publications right to delete comments that are deemed offensive, indecent or inconsistent with Manila Standard editorial standards, Manila Standard may not be held liable for any false information posted by readers in this comments section. The Sandiganbayan has denied the bid of Pangasinan Rep. Amado Espino Jr. for a leave of court that would allow him to contest his graft case over his alleged role in illegal black sand mining operations in 2011 in case his option for demurrer to evidence were denied. With the denial of Espinos motion for leave of court, the Sandiganbayan will no longer receive evidence in Espinos favor in case it denies his motion for demurrer to evidence. Filing of demurrer to evidence will then be a big gamble to Espino since all that the court now has are pieces of evidence submitted by the Ombudsman to prove the case against him. However, the antigraft courts Sixth Division said Espino could still file his demurrer to evidence, which seeks an outright dismissal of the case on the ground of weak evidence. The court also denied the same motion of former Provincial Administrator Rafael Baraan and former Provincial Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Officer Alvin Bagay. In his motion for leave, Espino said the Ombudsman was unable to prove that the issuance of the SSMP caused undue injury to the government.Espino also assailed the Ombudsman for failing to produce original documentary evidence, in effect insinuating that the evidence presented by the prosecution might have been forged. The Sandiganbayan said these arguments from Espino were best discussed during a full-blown trial and not through a demurrer. Espino Jr., et al.s arguments that there was no actual magnetite/black sand mining and that they did not act in a manner attended by manifest partiality, evident bad faith, or gross inexcusable negligence, among others, are evidentiary in nature and are matters of defense, the truth of which can best be passed upon after a full-blown trial on the merits, the court said. Espino and his co-accused face three counts of graft for allowing black sand mining in Lingayen Gulf in 2011 when he was still governor, while Villafuerte was being held accountable for the irregular procurement of P20 million worth of petroleum products for the provincial government in 2010. The Ombudsman claimed Espino, in conspiracy with Baraan, allegedly issued permits to Xypher Builders Inc. and Alexandra Mining and Oil Ventures Inc. to conduct soil remediation and mineral extraction in Barangay Sabangan in Lingayen for the exportation of P10.750 million worth of minerals to China when he was provincial governor. The midterm polls will happen next year, but this early, the Department of the Interior and Local Government has declared La Union as an election hotspot. DILG officer-in-charge Eduardo Ano made the recommendation on Wednesday following the murder of Sudipen town Mayor Alexander Buquing, his driver-bodyguard, and a police officer. Ano said authorities are looking into politics as the motive behind the killing. Yes, I will recommend, Ano said. Itong kay Mayor Buquing, ang nakikita ng PNP [Philippine National Police] ay politics. But we will go where the evidence will lead us. Napansin natin with the killing of Buquing na parang katulad ito ng hotspots natin like Abra, like Mindanao so we have to wait for the assessment of Comelec [Commission on Elections] and the PNP. Accordingly, we will address it through deployment of additional security persons, he added. Buquing is the 11th mayor to be killed since President Rodrigo Duterte was elected as the countrys president on June 30, 2016. But Ano said that not all mayors killed under the Duterte administration were drug-related.Itong labing-isa na to halos ang drugs-related lamang dito ay yung kay Parojinog at yung sa kay Espinosa... Ang karamihan dito ay politics at personal motive, he said. Slowly naman may naso-solve ang pulis natin, yung kay Mayor Ferdinand Bote solved na yun, nafile-an na ng kaso yung culprits, he added. Buquing, driver Boni Depdepen, and police protection officer Police Officer 2 Rolando Juanbe were the two others who died in the shooting incident. Buquings wife, Vice Mayor Wendy Joy Buquing, survived the incident with minor injuries. Police theorized that a gun-for-hire syndicate was behind the crime, noting that these syndicates are active especially when election season comes near. The Asia Water Council and the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) have firmed up their ties in an effort to improve Metro Manilas overall water security and wastewater management systems following the official visit of AWC and K Water President Hak Soo Lee and 12 others at MWSS yesterday. MWSS Administrator Reynaldo V. Velasco officially welcomed Dr. Lee with a briefing and exchanges of notes along with top MWSS officials, Manila Water President Ferdinand M. dela Cruz, Maynilad President Ramoncito S. Fernandez and officials of Bulacan Bulk Water and Angat Hydro Power of which K-Water is an affiliate of San Miguel Corporation. We thank K Water through Dr. Lee for helping MWSS in the strengthening and retrofitting of Angat Dam as part of their commitment with SMC in operating Transmissions 1 and 2 turbines which is crucial to the governmentas water security program particularly on the possible occurrence of the Big One with Angat Dam supplying 96 percent water to Metro Manila and nearby provinces, Velasco said. We are honored to be partners with MWSS and we look forward to future joint projects including the setting up of an MWSS-AWC-K Water Institute-Academy to serve the Philippine water industry, said Dr. Lee who added that K-Water runs an academy whose roster of alumni included Manila Water President Ferdz de la Cruz. The visit of Dr. Lee comes on the heels of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Velasco and other select officers and members of the Asia Water Council at the 7th AWC BOC in Daejoon City, South Korea last September. The Asia Water Council consists of more than 100 members, organizations, representing more than 26 countries worldwide.The MWSS Administrator who also serves as AWC Director said the AWC-initiated MOU will afford the MWSS and the Philippines to cooperate and to promote the water industry and resolve problems in the Asia region through the following: a) conduct of joint research; b) sharing Test-beds owned by the respective agencies and supporting their operation; c) supporting the promotion and AWC and their products; and, d) providing other cooperative support and needed assistance. Meanwhile, MWSS Administrator Velasco has formed an organising committee for the hosting of the AWC General Assembly, 8th Board of Council Meeting and General Elections to be co-hosted by MWSS, Manila Water, Maynilad and Luzon Clean Water on March 14 to 16, 2019. Among those named to the committee include: MWSS Deputy Administrator Virgilio Moro Lazo, Susanne Sta. Maria, Jeric Sevilla and Noel Abesamis of Manila Water, Maynilad's Annette H. De Ocampo and Francisco Arellano, SM's Edgar Dona, German Avengoza and Archibald Macababad and MWSS Consultant Melandrew T. Velasco. The AWC Philippine Committee met officially with the AWC Secretariat last October 2 at the Edsa Shangrila Hotel with AWC Executive Director Yongdeok Cho, MWSS Administrator Velasco and MWSS Deputy Administrator Bobby Leonor Cleofas to firm up preparations for the March 2019 event which is expected to gather some 300 experts and water leaders from 123 AWC member countries and institutions. In an era of climate change, international cooperation and in adherence to the United Nations Sustainable Goal No. 6 on Water and Sanitation, the Asia Water Council event will afford MWSS and the Philippine greater partnership and opportunities with our Asian counterparts including water supply industry access to modern research and technologies under the aegis of Build, Build, Build policy of President Duterte,a said the MWSS chief. The Court of Appeals has dismissed the petition questioning the ownership of developer Megaworld Corp. on the property in Binondo, Manila where Lucky Chinatown Mall and The City Place condominium stand. In a seven-page decision promulgated last Sept. 28, the CAs Second Division denied the petition filed by local firm Nesco International Development Corp. assailing the validity of the land title of Megaworld covering the 2.5-hectare land. The appellate court instead affirmed the decision of the Securities and Exchange Commission last April, which dismissed for lack of jurisdiction the complaint filed by Nesco in 2012 that accused Megaworld of having fake titles on the property. The CA cited as basis previous rulings of the Supreme Court on similar cases, which held that the SEC has no jurisdiction in determining the validity of certificates of title. In holding that the SECs judgment was void, the Supreme Court noted that proper adjudication of the controversy requires, at the very least, a consideration of the indefeasibility of a Torrens title and propriety of a collateral attack on a certificate of title, among others. Thus, it concluded that the SEC is not the appropriate forum to delve into these civil law concepts, read the ruling penned by Associate Justice Ma. Luisa Quijano-Padilla. Applying these principles in the present case, we resolve that the SEC was correct in ruling that although the reliefs prayed for by petitioner do not directly seek the nullification of the questioned titles, the resolution of this issue would still involve an inquiry into the validity or genuineness of said titlesa matter which is civil in nature and is therefore within the exclusive jurisdiction of regular courts, the CA said. The CA only settled the issue on jurisdiction of the SEC in resolving the case, and no longer touched on other issues raised in the petition of Nescoincluding allegations that Megaworld executives were involved in unsound business practices and should be investigated and prosecuted. Associate Justices Remedios Salazar-Fernando and Franchito Diamante concurred with the ruling.Nesco was the owner of the two-story commercial building that was demolished by the city government from the property bought by Megaworld. In the dismissed complaint, it asked SEC to cancel or revoke Megaworlds certificate of incorporation, file civil and criminal cases against its officers and directors and delist the firm in the Philippine Stock Exchange. The SEC dismissed the complaint in a decision dated April 13, 2018. Nesco had also sought the revocation of Megaworlds certificate of registration and license to sell units in the The City Place condominium before the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board. Records showed that Megaworld signed a Memorandum of Agreement in April 2006 with the City Government of Manila, after a successful public bidding process for a build-and-transfer arrangement for the construction of public school buildings with residential quarters for the faculty, among others. The developer said Nesco has no legal basis to ask for a revocation of the permits for The City Place since it is not a buyer of any unit within the aforementioned property. President Rodrigo Duterte is facing other petitions of human rights violations before The Hague-based International Criminal Court in The Netherlands, an official said Wednesday. Speaking before The Source at the CNN cable television, Commission on Human Rights Chairman Chito Gascon said there were three other communications filed against Duterte questioning his war on illegal drugs. There are more than two communications made in a public manner but discreet communications that have been brought before the ICC by other concerned stakeholders from outside the Philippines, Gascon said. He did not identify the petitioners or the nature of their petitions. In April 2017, lawyer Jude Sabio filed a petition with the ICC on Dutertes deadly war on drugs, and in August this year several families of the supposed victims of extrajudicial killings filed another complaint with the ICC. Last month, the International Peoples Tribunal found Duterte guilty of human rights violations based on the accounts of the witnesses of the extrajudicial killings. Gascon said the CHR had nothing to do with any of the complaints filed against the President.Let me put it this way: When the [ICC] prosecutors in February said they would open a preliminary examination on the case[s], we said we were ready to cooperate, Gascon said. But the ICC did not communicate [with us]. The ICC did not respond to our offer of assistance, but we are working with the individual victims who are seriously considering this as a remedy. Despite Dutertes withdrawal from the ICC, Gascon said, the international tribunal still had jurisdiction over the Philippines as one of its members. We are under the jurisdiction of the ICC until March 2019 [because of the grace period of one year after withdrawal], Gascon said. The long arm of the ICC could still be used even after 2019. Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano blasted the British Broadcasting Corp. for airing a documentary on Sept. 29 entitled Philippines: Democracy in Danger? which the DFA chief said, amounts to nothing more than anti-Duterte propaganda. He also demanded that BBC should present an accurate and balanced view of issues about the country in the future. Cayetano even considered the BBC documentary as more worthy of tabloid journalism than the venerable institution that we thought BBC was. The episode misleads viewers about President Rodrigo Roa Dutertes anti-illegal drug strategy, which is actually making Philippine society safer, healthier, and more prosperous for the Filipino people, Cayetano said, noting that it fails to mention that the strategy is a diversified and community-based approach that includes enforcement, rehabilitation, and reintegration. The countrys top diplomat lamented that the BBC documentary also made little mention of the sheer magnitude of the drug problem in the Philippines, the enormous damage to millions of families caused by addiction, and the fact that police are under strict orders to follow the law in the conduct of our campaign against illegal drugs. The episode did not take into consideration the actions taken by the Duterte administration against police officers and other government personnel involved in the illegal drug trade, he said. If BBC did its homework, it would have known that as of 31 August 2018, we have arrested 576 government workers, including elected officials and uniformed personnel while another 498 are being investigated for drug-related cases. We have also dismissed 105 uniformed personnel for drug-related offenses. More importantly, from 1 July 2016 to August 31, 2018, we have dismantled a total of 235 drug dens and clandestine laboratories; seized P24.12 billion worth of illegal drugs and drug-related items; and cleared 8,444 barangays or villages of illegal drugs, Cayetano added. On the other hand, the BBC report projected a one-sided picture of Senator Leila de Lima, Senator Antonio Trillanes, and former Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. It overlooks the fact that all three have been given and continue to be given their day in court. The rule of law has been upheld in all three cases. They are not, as the report unfairly alleges, victims of any crackdown on the political opposition. The report also failed to mention the obvious: All three remain free to criticize the Duterte administration, Cayetano said.The Foreign Affairs Secretary also debunked claims that the media in the Philippines is being persecuted. Freedom of the press is important to the health of any democracy. Those who read our newspapers, watch our television programs, listen to our radio broadcasts, take part in dialogue through social media, and read online publications [including Rappler, which like other media outlets, can freely publish and criticize the policies of the Duterte administration] can observe that the press is anything but inhibited in the Philippines, he pointed out. Cayetano also lamented that the BBC report completely ignored the fact that President Duterte continues to enjoy the trust and support of the people. We are taking control of our economic future, making our society safer and healthier, and advancing the interests of Filipinos abroad, he insisted. In fact, he said, seven out of 10 Filipinos trust President Duterte and three out of four approve his performance, according to the latest Pulse Asia poll released on Sept. 25. He cited a Social Weather Station survey released on Sept. 29 indicating that the President Dutertes satisfaction rating went up to 70 percent. Another SWS survey that was also released last month showed that 78 percent of Filipinos were satisfied with the Duterte administrations campaign against illegal drugs. In the interest of fair and objective reporting, therefore, we urge the BBC to present an accurate and balanced view of issues about the Philippines in the future so that its audience can make its own assessment of the health of our democracy, he said. We believe that by doing so BBC will be able to regain the trust of its audience in its journalistic professionalism and repair the damage it has inflicted on the Philippines and the Filipino people as a result of this one-sided documentary, countrys top diplomat said. Cooling their heels. Up to 40,000 beachgoers were unwinding on Boracays sand and swimming in its turquoise waters at peak periods. AFP Beach boozing and smoking will be consigned to the past when Boracay, the Philippines top holiday island, welcomes back a capped number of tourists after its six-month shutdown, authorities said Wednesday.President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the resort shuttered to visitors in April, after declaring years of unchecked growth had turned the white-sand idyll into a cesspool. When hotel doors reopen on Oct. 26, the island known for its party atmosphere will crack down on drinking and smoking on its beaches, while only 19,000 tourists will be allowed at any one time. The rules are aimed at protecting the islands fragile ecosystem, where up to 40,000 beachgoers were unwinding on its sand and swimming in its turquoise waters at peak periods. We wanted the beachfront to be clean and to be occupied by tourists, Environment Undersecretary Sherwin Rigor said on ABS-CBN TV. There are more people who want to engage in wholesome activities. Before closure, the 1,000-hectare (2,470-acre) island drew two-million tourists a year, pumping roughly $1 billion in revenue into the economy. The government said Boracays closure contributed to a sharp slowdown in Philippine economic growth in the second quarter, but Duterte said the cleanup was worth it. In the run-up to the reopening, bars, restaurants and hotels were being demolished to restore a 30-meter (100-foot) stretch of sand between the water and tourist areas. This belt will be off-limits to drinking, smoking, weddings, vendors, and massage providersactivities which can be done inside hotels and restaurants, Rigor said.The new rules are also set to ban the huge Laboracay multi-day beach parties attended by tens of thousands of tourists during the weekend that includes May 1, Labor Day, which is also the peak of the tourist season. The government will only allow 6,000 hotel rooms, half the current total, with the rest seen going out of business for failing to comply with environmental and other regulations, the official said. Boracay hotels are now required to put up their own sewage treatment plants, while garbage will be put on a barge every night and shipped across the sea to a landfill, Rigor said. The Boracay Foundation, the main business industry group on the island, said it had no comment on the new rules which have not been officially conveyed to it. Other agencies usually consult with us and ask for our comments. So we are unsure yet if these are official or not, its executive director Pia Miraflores told AFP. Another environment undersecretary, Benny Antiporda, told AFP all these rules will be enforced from Oct. 26, but he did not rule out a compromise if the local businesses asked for it. They should take the initiative... Werent they the same ones who destroyed Boracay in the first place? Antiporda added. In the face of heavy opposition from neighbourhood residents, Brandon City Council voted Monday night to unanimously reject a boarding house application at the corner of 16th Street and Victoria Avenue. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 2/10/2018 (1138 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us David Swayze addresses Brandon city council about a proposed boarding house at 16th Street and Victoria Avenue during a public hearing Monday night. (Michael Lee/The Brandon Sun) In the face of heavy opposition from neighbourhood residents, Brandon City Council voted Monday night to unanimously reject a boarding house application at the corner of 16th Street and Victoria Avenue. The citys elected officials cited concerns related to safety for future tenants and the potential loss of character in the mostly single-family community. The decision came following a lengthy public hearing at city hall in which most people spoke out against a proposed boarding house at 1604 Victoria Ave., owned by ZhiXiang "Derek" Yu and Wei Wang. Council seemed to mirror the concerns expressed by residents about the historic nature of the neighbourhood and the citys inability to regulate boarding houses. The buildings owners maintained that they would take care of the buildings exterior appearance and provide adequate parking, while addressing the need for affordable housing. One petition calling for council to reject the application had 50 signatures. Coun. Lonnie Patterson (South Centre), who represents the ward where the house is located and is not seeking re-election, refuted the idea that the boarding house qualified as affordable housing, given the applicants planned to charge between $400 to $500 a month for one room. "I dont think this is a conversation about affordable housing," she said. Patterson ended up introducing a motion to deny the boarding house application. Another motion brought forward by Coun. Shawn Berry (Linden Lanes), who is seeking re-election, to defer the matter to Oct. 15 was voted down. "Changing in perpetuity the designation of that property from a single-detached family home to a boarding house, without a robust boarding house policy and without contemplating the historical impact of the heritage nature of that neighbourhood, I think, is a bad decision for the long term, so thats why Ive moved to reject the application," she said. Mayor Rick Chrest, who has been acclaimed to a second term, asked the applicants if they would be willing to lower the number of potential tenants as a compromise, but the couple refused. Prior to the vote, Chrest expressed his sympathies to the applicants, who chose to pursue the boarding house because of their financial situation. "On the other hand, weve got neighbourhoods and other residents to consider, and everyone has property rights and people have the opportunity to observe them, and theyve done so." Yu and Wang applied for the boarding house designation in July, with plans to live there with their daughter and Yus parents and rent out the remaining rooms to up to seven tenants, most of whom would be international students. A conditional use request is required if the boarding house will be rented out to more than three tenants. The citys planning commission approved the request last month, but it was appealed by area residents. Among those who supported the boarding house were Amber-Rose Bourget, affordable housing program coordinator for the Brandon Neighbourhood Renewal Corp., and the couples next-door neighbours, Karen and Jim Lewthwaite. Jim said while he recognizes the "qualms" of his neighbours around a boarding house, he and his wife admired the "industry and talent" Yu and Wang have brought to updating their home. "We just hope that people can appreciate the financial strain on these young people as they try to forge a life in Canada for their young family," Karen added. Meanwhile, David Swayze, a lawyer with the firm Meighen Haddad LLP who filed the appeal, based his opposition to the proposal largely around safety. City staff explained that fire inspections typically happen every three years and the owners must live in the boarding house for it to qualify as one. However, the city does not actively check to see if the owners are living there. "Thats a pretty low standard and our submission is that people who are living in these homes deserve better than what our rules provide for, and what we need to be looking at before we start granting conditional uses for boarding houses is what are our rules? We can do better in this city," Swayze said. To highlight the parking situation, Swayze showed pictures taken of the streets while they were packed with vehicles. He also asked for a show of hands in the room of how many people supported the application and how many were against it most were against. From a legal standpoint, Swayze said the application would be subject to judicial review and pointed to a conflict of interest by director of economic development Sandy Trudel, who spoke on behalf of the applicants during the planning commission hearing last month. Chief planner Ryan Nickel told The Brandon Sun that Trudel actively works with applicants on their housing proposals and a legal review found no conflict of interest or bias on her part. Swayze said ultimately the city is responsible for deciding what the right mix of housing should be in the neighbourhood. "Well, Im here to tell you we like our mix, we like it very much." Coun. Kris Desjarlais (Rosser), who is seeking re-election, agreed that better laws and guidelines are needed around boarding houses. "Having said that, I still dont know what we do about student housing or homes that are rented to a multitude of people, and I think that is a loophole that anybody can pursue in this community right now." Boarding houses are rare in Brandon, with only two applications approved since 2001. An estimated six boarding houses are under fire inspection to date. mlee@brandonsun.com Twitter: @mtaylorlee The practice of declawing cats in Manitoba may soon be a thing of the past. Nova Scotia and British Columbia have already banned the procedure, and Manitoba may be close behind. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 2/10/2018 (1138 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us The practice of declawing cats in Manitoba may soon be a thing of the past. Nova Scotia and British Columbia have already banned the procedure, and Manitoba may be close behind. "Were in a moment now where Manitobas veterinarians are examining this issue, were looking for the input of pet owners and animal advocates to make a decision about how we feel about this procedure, and whether or not a ban might be appropriate for our province," said Dr. Jonas Watson, president of the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association. "It's hard to say (if it should be done or not). Cats can survive without them, but it's also an integral part of their being." -Adam Bilowus, Louie's owner Brandons veterinary clinics have already given up the practice, with Brandon Hills Veterinary Clinic owner and veterinarian Jay Thrush announcing on Jan. 28 that they would no longer declaw cats. Wheat City Veterinary Clinic, Grand Valley Animal Clinic and the Brandon Animal Clinic had already discontinued the practice. Although Brandon has been ahead of the curve, there are still clinics in the province that declaw cats. "We saw how much pain she was in and it changed her behaviour. Sammy, (pictured) our lovely handsome new boy has been trained not to destroy furniture and does not use his nails to hurt us. " -Kimberley Danley, Sammy's owner Its a practice that carries negative effects, Watson said. "New research suggests that declawed cats are three times as likely to develop back pain in life," he said. Theyre also more likely to poop and pee outside their litter box and become aggressive, he said, adding that declawing cats also deprives the cat of its ability to express a natural behaviour, which is scratching. "Instead [of declawing] I used repellant spray on my furniture (a pheromone) so they don't scratch, and I provided them with two scratching areas. When I had them as kittens we used the gel nails to prevent scratching as well." -Heather Reshaur, Galley's owner "Scratching with the nails is used by lions and tigers and domestic house cats. Its a way that they mark their territory visually," he said. "Scratching an appropriate surface like a scratching post is something that brings some degree of pleasure to a cats life." Local cat owner Victoria King said she noticed a big difference between her cat who was declawed and her cat who still had his claws. After her cat Tommy was declawed, he got an infection in his paws, King said. "I didn't do it, at first I thought I would but my two cats don't scratch anything, but the post they have and the rug at the front door. Trimming their nails is simple as well. Why would I do something so mean to them?" - Jodi Bootsman, Hugo and Benny's owner "It was the most horrifying thing ever," she said. "He eventually healed and was fine, but he got out one day and I havent seen him since." Her other cat, Bohdi, was never declawed, and its like night and day, she said. "He goes outside, he always comes back and is honestly the best cat Ive ever had." "I have a cat that was declawed when we got him ... It didn't seem to bother him or affect him until this past year. Now that he's in his senior years and slowing down quite a bit, it seems to be causing him some arthritis. -Amelia Kissock, Saturn's owner Fellow local cat owner Amelia Kissock said that her cat was declawed before they got him, which has led to some health problems for her feline friend, now 15 years of age. "It didnt seem to bother him or affect him until this past year," Kissock said. "Now that hes in his senior years and slowing down quite a bit, it seems to be causing him some arthritis. I cant say for sure if its the declawing, but its really the only present factor that I can think of. He is not overweight and is an indoor cat. Ive asked his veterinarian if that could be the cause, and she said most likely." Historically, local vets tried to balance the needs of clients and their furniture with the cats needs, said Dr. Colleen Fisher with Brandon Hills Vet Clinic. But things have changed. "Anyone in favour should have their fingers cut off at the first knuckle so their nails don't grow back ... see how they manage." -Carolyn Currie Phillips, Gucci's owner "I dont think its fair anymore to have that balance go toward owners," Fisher said. "We know more about how cats behave and in terms of their general welfare and especially if theyre an indoor cat, we want to make sure that were doing everything that we can to promote a quality environment for cats." Although their Brandon clinic still gets the occasional request for declawing, theyre becoming increasingly infrequent, she said. There are other methods owners can use to keep their cats scratching under control, beginning when theyre still kittens. Its about giving them an alternative to scratching up the furniture. "I get some people don't want their furniture scratched, but they sell nail covers to put on the nails to avoid that. Unless it is for medical purposes only, I wouldn't do it to my babies." -December Mayhew, Bam bam's owner "We want to be able to teach them behaviours as little kittens and as young cats that help to give them those normal behaviours, with little toys or other little instruments," she said. "They can use those appropriate or hunting and playing and pray behaviours that are so important for them, and it will make a difference in terms of the familys satisfaction with the cat." If a ban is put in place, its likely to be done within the next year-and-a-half to two years, Watson said. In that time, the intent is to gauge what the province's veterinarians, veterinary technologists and the public thinks about the ban, through the use of polling. "For people who care about this issue, they ought to contact the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association," he said. "Its important that the voice of cat lovers and animal advocates be heard on this matter." Getting the procedure done isnt necessary, he said, adding that it does cause some discomfort to the cats. All vets in Brandon, including Fisher, no longer carry out the procedure. "We used to do what we did because thats what we knew," Fisher said. "And now we know better I think." mverge@brandonsun.com Twitter: @Melverge5 Asec. Mocha Uson Assistant Communications Secretary Mocha Uson announced her resignation at a Senate budget hearing Wednesday, expressing hope that this would clear the way for the speedy approval of the proposed P1.4-billion spending plan for the Presidential Communications Operations Office.There are lawmakers who have been holding back the PCOO budget. These are the leftist lawmakers who are angry at me, Uson said in Filipino during a hearing of the Senate finance subcommittee on her agencys budget for 2019. Every year, they tell me not to criticize the lawmakers so they wont hold back the PCOO budget. So, Ill sacrifice myself so that the budget can pass. Ive decided to resign, she added. READ: Mocha isnt off the hook just yet Special Assistant to the President Bong Go said Duterte has already accepted Usons resignation. The House of Representatives has deferred the PCOOs budget hearing twice because Uson was absent. Emerging from hearing, Uson vowed to step up her attacks against President Rodrigo Dutertes critics, whom she called mga ulol or rabid dogs. I will do what I did during the [last presidential] campaign. Lets have a fist fight, lets fight it out. Dont restrain me, Uson said. Marami po diyan basta yung mga epal na senador at kongresista kasi sumosobra na sila eh, she added. (There are many senators and congressmen who like to butt in where they dont belong. Theyre too much.) Uson has been widely criticized for using her blog to spread false news and information against the Presidents critics. One of these, Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, has filed administrative and criminal complaints against Uson for spreading fake news that he owned offshore bank accounts. Wait for it. This will really be a war, she said, noting that she was now free from any restrictions that came with her job at the PCOO. I am free again to fight. But now you can expect that I will be even fiercer, she said. To my critics, dont be mistaken that you have won, she said, adding that she resigned so that there would be a fair fight. She also vowed to double her efforts to protect the President. Lawmakers, citizens groups and even Usons colleagues at the PCOO have called on her to resign due to several controversies and blunders she committed. Only recently, she drew flak for making fun of sign language in a video posted on her Facebook page. Asked if she would run for office next year, Uson said she would heed the Presidents advice to let the people decide. I cant answer that now. I will listen to the comments I read on Facebook, to what the supporters say there, said Uson who occupied the 45th to 63rd spot among the senatorial preferences based on the September Pulse Asia survey. I dont look at the surveys, I look at what I get on Facebook. They say, Fight on, said Uson, who has served in the Duterte administration for one year and five months. Uson, a sexy dancer who joined the Duterte presidential campaign before being appointed to the PCOO, said she is sure the President would accept her resignation. Special Assistant to the President Christopher Go said the Palace respects her resignation and thanked her for her service. She was a good ally, Go said. Her critics said Usons resignation was too little, too late. It is an extremely belated gesture rendered insignificant in the face of gross incompetence, state-sponsored vulgarity and the proliferation of fake news. It has come very late in response to the publics demand for accountability, said opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros. The damage, she said, has already been done. She said Uson is leaving the PCOO with a badly tarnished reputation. She has not only successfully planted the seeds of untruth inside the government, she has made sure it bore fruit to sow confusion and poison the publics mind, Hontiveros added. She added that it would take more than a forced, token resignation to rebuild the credibility of the PCOO. I call on Secretary Martin Andanar to restore some sense of order to his office and end the incompetence and state-sponsored promotion of fake news, Hontiveros said. She said this may be an extremely challenging task for Andanar, as he himself is accused of gross mismanagement and issuing misleading statements. But if Secretary Andanar really wants to salvage the PCOOs image, he has this one chance to do it. If not, he is no better than Uson, she said. Senator Nancy Binay said Uson has the freedom to attack anyone for as long as no government funds are being spent. She also said Usons resignation was a missed opportunity to prove her critics wrong. She missed the opportunity to prove everybody wrong. This was her chance to show everyone that she deserved to be called Asec. Mocha Uson, but she didnt do it, she said.The camp of Vice President Leni Robredo said Usons resignation was no big deal. Barry Gutierrez, Robredos spokesperson, said despite her resignation, Uson could still be held liable for her lies and attacks. It would be wrong for her to think that because of her resignation, she is no longer culpable for the lies and vilifications she has done on others, he noted. Mocha Uson really displayed her lack of understanding and readiness to fulfill her duties as a public servant for so many times, he said. Her resignation is not a loss to the country, he added. The actions of Uson and blogger Drew Olivar had not helped President Rodrigo Duterte, he said. Olivar earlier attacked Robredo, claiming the widow went around with a man during her South Africa trip in 2017. On Aug. 30 in a video blog, Uson questioned Robredos loyalty to the President and asked her if she had done something good for the country to address the problem on illegal drugs. In the House, lawmakers said they were relieved by Usons resignation. Isabela Rep. Rodolfo Albano III said it was Usons decision to resign. Nobody is indispensable, he added. Eastern Samar Rep. Ben Evardone, chairman of the House committee on public information, said her departure from government was good riddance and long overdue. Opposition Representatives Carlos Zarate of Bayan Muna, Gary Alejano of Magdalo Party-list and Tom Villarin of Akbayan shared a similar view. [Usons resignation was] long overdue. Government service, while it is about trust, it is also about accountability; and, that is what is lacking with her, Zarate said. Alejano said it was good riddance for the administrations excess baggage. Unfortunately for Mocha, notoriety doesnt translate to performance as her one assigned tasks of doing an info drive on federalism floundered in scandal and controversy, Alejano said. Villarin said Uson had it coming for her. Shes so contemptuous and full of herself. She does not want to be held accountable nor does she respect the office she holds. Her insistence not to appear in official summons of Congress and Senate belies what a public official should be doing, Villarin said. Shes devilishly arrogant and mischief is her virtue. As a public servant, she should not be beyond public scrutiny and admonition. Her resignation, though too little and too late, is a whiff of fresh air to a poisoned air we now breathe, he added. Despite the controversies surrounding Uson, Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said she was qualified to run for Congress. The only qualification is you must be a Filipino and age qualification, so she is qualified, Roque said. He called her a messenger to many of the Presidents supporters. In a separate interview with dzBB, Uson lamented the public should not vote for the same faces in the Senate and Congress as the lawmakers only use their seats for their own interests. You can expect that in the upcoming elections, I will campaign to go against the trapo [traditional politicans] and those who are not worthy of the peoples votes, she said. She said the President would not press her to run. He doesnt dictate people what to do. He would let you think for yourself and he will support you. He even said, Let the people decide. So, whatever the sentiment of the voters would be, I would listen to that, she said. Some senators, meanwhile, want the PCOO to revert to the old Office of the Press Secretary to make it more effective. Senate President Vicente Sotto III presented the idea when PCOO officials led by Andanar faced the Senate committee on finance to defend their proposed budget next year. Sotto later said that he was speaking on behalf of Senators Panfilo Lacson and Gregorio Honasan. Besides, Sotto said he was informed that the PCOO was created supposedly to accommodate some political friends of the previous administration. So were thinking that perhaps this the best time to study while studying your budget, to review and study of the possibility of reverting back into the Office of the Press Secretary, he said. We can streamline that and use your current budget and if necessary, we can infuse more budget for the office to be more effective, he added. Senator JV Ejercito, who presided over the hearing, agreed with the proposal. Eight organisations representing renewable energy in Ireland have called on the Government to aim for 70% of Ireland's electricity to come from renewables by 2030. In June 2018, the EU agreed that 32% of the EUs energy across electricity, heat and transport will come from renewables by 2030. Irelands share of that target will be negotiated with the EU in the coming months and follows confirmation from the Climate Change Advisory Council in July that Ireland will miss its overall 2020 target for renewable energy. At the moment, around 30% of Irish electricity comes from renewables and while Ireland will fall short of its overall 2020 target it is expected to still reach its 40% electricity target. A report from energy experts Baringa has said it is "technically possible and cost neutral to the consumer" for Ireland to use renewable energy to supply 70% of our electricity by 2030. Dr David Connolly, CEO of the Irish Wind Energy Association, said: The evidence from the Baringa report is clear. An electricity system using 70 per cent renewable energy by 2030 is not only practical, it is at a minimum cost neutral for the consumer. Michael McCarthy, CEO of the Irish Solar Energy Association, said: The cost of these renewable technologies and the cost of finance has never been lower, therefore, resulting in a lower cost of electricity for the consumer. Des OToole, President of the Irish Bioenergy Association, said: With the output from our domestic forests expected to double over the next 15 years, CHP utilising locally sourced biomass offers the potential to produce renewable electricity for large energy users and supports the sustainable growth of the forestry sector, which in turn will ensure continued economic vibrancy and employment across rural Ireland. Grattan Healy, Chairman of the Irish Wind Farmers Association, said: Renewables are a key to the revitalisation of rural Ireland because they are by nature a dispersed resource which everyone can tap into, creating local employment and reducing imports nationally and locally of expensive and damaging fossil fuels. Garry Connolly, President of Host in Ireland, which represents data hosting partners, said: Irelands ability to become a leader in the renewable energy space will assist significantly in keeping Ireland in the top tier of Global Data Centre Clusters. Peter Duffy, President of the Irish Energy Storage Association, said: The energy storage industry in Ireland is developing rapidly and will be well capable of supporting a 70 per cent renewable electricity target both in terms of facilitating the variability of renewable generation and also providing grid stability. By Padraig Hoare Almost half of first-time buyers have loans of up to 34 years, according to Central Bank figures insanely long terms costing such homeowners tens of thousands of euro more in interest, a consumer expert has said. The Central Banks report on household lending in 2018 revealed almost 50% of new first-time-buyer loans in the first half of the year had a loan term of between 30 to 34 years. For second-subsequent-buyers, 50% of loans had terms under 25 years, the watchdog said. The average loan size for new first-time-buyer lending in Dublin was 273,953 compared to 185,987 outside the capital, while average incomes were 85,334 and 66,728 respectively, according to the report. Daragh Cassidy of consumer website Bonkers.ie said with house prices getting higher, often the only way for first-time buyers to bring their monthly mortgage payments under control was to push out the term. Obviously, this can help in the short-term with budgeting but means a first-time buyer will end up paying tens of thousands of euro more in interest over the lifetime of the loan. "The longer the term of the loan, the more interest you pay. Also when underwriting a mortgage application, a bank will want to ensure that an applicants monthly repayment isnt more than around 35% with 40% the absolute max of their net disposable income. "Quite often, one of the only ways to achieve this, other than getting rid of any loans and credit card debt, is to push out the term of the loan. A 30/35-year term does seem insanely long but its very much a product of a broken housing market and rapid rise in house prices, Mr Cassidy said. Mortgage expert and financial advisor Michael Dowling said it was no surprise that half of first-time buyers were on loans up to 34 years. I would suggest the main reason is affordability in relation to monthly repayments. Borrowers can make adjustments at any stage to the monthly repayments to reduce the term and with other expenses like childcare, most first time buyers want to keep the mortgage repayments as low as possible in the early years, he said. He said it was worth noting that banks only let first-time buyers have a 35-year term, and it was not available to second subsequent buyers. The percentage of cash transactions for homes stood at 29.5%, down from just over 44% in 2015, according to the Central Bank report. Cash transactions by investment firms make up around a third of such deals, according to industry bodies. The "baptism barrier" in schools will be officially removed today. It will ban the use of religion to select which children are admitted to primary schools as before today, schools - which are mostly of a Catholic ethos - were allowed to prioritise children of their own faith ahead of those living nearby as part of their admission policy. That will no longer be the case when the Education Minister Richard Bruton signs the commencement order later for a new law to take effect. The changes will affect oversubscribed primary schools, mainly in urban areas, where places are limited. Other changes in the legislation coming in today include the ending of admission fees and a cap on the number of children or grandchildren of past pupils a school can enrol. Meanwhile, a new P.E. programme for Junior cycle students is aiming to get 200,000 Irish teenagers more physically active. DCU and the Irish Heart Foundation are behind the initiative, with research showing that only 1 in 5 teens are getting enough exercise. A training programme is being offered to P.E. teachers to implement the new approach that makes classes more enjoyable and engaging. Dr Sarah-Jane Belton from DCU, who is one of the designers of the programme, says "physical literacy" is vital for kids. "It's about the health and wellbeing of the child, and enabling them to develop the skills they need to be physically active, things like motivation and confidence. Being physically fit, having the knowledge around why it's so important to be active - that's what physical literacy is. "If we get that right for our children, the outcome is physically active kids, the outcome is active adults and the outcome is healthy adults," she said. In Dublin today, attendees of the Learnovation conference will hear about how teachers could soon be marking their students' homework using voice messages. Abdul Chohan, one of the pioneers of the idea and the founder of the Olive Tree School in Bolton, says students at his school upload their homework on their tablet, and get personal feedback from teachers. The technique, using iPads, has already been successfully introduced in schools in the UK. Digital Desk A legal "immunity" blocking the Environment Protection Agency from being sued when the group's actions inadvertently damage the countryside should be immediately removed to ensure full transparency in the sector. Environment Minister Denis Naughten has come under pressure to agree to the move after a number of recent incidents in Limerick and other areas in recent years. As part of a bill due to be tabled by Fianna Fail in the coming days, the opposition party has called for the "absolute right to immunity" given to the EPA in relation to environmental legal cases to be removed. The plan is contained in the Environment Protection Agency (Amendment) Bill, and is seeking to delete section 15 of the Environmental Protection Act 1992 and the Waste Management Act 1996. Speaking to reporters at Leinster House, Fianna Fail social protection spokesperson Willie O'Dea and party senator Lorraine Clifford Lee said currently the EPA cannot be sued or sanctioned for "negligence from any damage from their actions". Saying the existing situation is "inappropriate", Mr O'Dea said other EU members such as Spain and Germany have already removed full immunity for their corresponding environmental groups and that Ireland should now follow suit. It is understood Mr O'Dea's concerns relate to issues surrounding the Irish Cement Limited base in Mungret, Co Limerick, which in July was forced to apologise due to a "dust leak" in the area. Other issues have also occurred at sites given the green light by the EPA and An Bord Pleanala in Cork and other counties, although no legal changes have been made to date. By Liam Heylin A young man who barricaded himself into his home to stop gardai arresting him last night claimed that his problems stemmed from his wife being kidnapped in America. 29-year-old Lee Cronin of Apartment 3, 36 Douglas West, Cork, is charged with numerous counts of failing to turn up in court and also faces what Judge Olann Kelleher described as a voluminous amount of charges. Garda Elizabeth Bugler testified at Cork District Court in relation to the arrest of Cronin at his home, He put up a struggle, he barricaded the door, he did not come freely. Eddie Burke solicitor, said Cronin had worked as a chef in various locations around Europe and previously married an American woman. Cronin said: I found out my wife got kidnapped in America. I have become a complete recluse. Judge Olann Kelleher asked the accused during his bail application, What date did you say she was kidnapped? He replied that it happened in late August. Cronins mother, Marie Cronin, confirmed that her son believed that his wife had been kidnapped and asked her to see what she could find out about a kidnapping in Minnesota. She also confirmed that her son did not want to leave home and had asked her to get his shopping for her. Lee Cronin said, I could not go outside the door. When the doorbell rings I jump out of my skin. I am a recluse. My mental health is not so good. I am still highly anxious. "It takes up to nine months to come off Xanax. Now I am taking medication. I was afraid to answer the door. This is the first time outside my house in a month and a half or two months. I am just getting back on my feet. I have been in and out of homeless services. Judge Kelleher noted that the case had been put back for Lee Cronin to attend at the probation service for an assessment of his suitability for community service and he failed to turn up seven times. The judge said of Cronin: He has not signed on, he has resisted arrest and he puts it all down to his wife being kidnapped. Judge Kelleher said to Cronin: You resisted arrest and you barricaded yourself? Cronin replied: Yes. I didnt think I had to come out when it was my own property. Cronin was charged with failing to appear at Cork Distrrict Court on September 3, 12 and 26 and trespassing at a house at St. Anthonys Villas, Douglas West, on August 7, and stealing property at Galways Lane, Douglas West on the same date. Judge Olann Kelleher remanded the 29-year-old in custody until October 10. By Ann O'Loughlin Legal proceedings brought in Ireland over the alleged fraudulent transfer of assets between bankrupt businessman Sean Dunne and his wife Gayle Killilea Dunne can continue to be heard in this jurisdiction, the High Court ruled. Mr Justice Brian McGovern today dismissed the second leg of a challenge brought by Ms Killilea Dunne against, Chris Lehane, the official assignee handling Mr Dunne's bankruptcy, seeking the dismissal of the fraudulent transfer proceedings on grounds that Ireland was not the appropriate jurisdiction, or "forum non conveniens" for this and was an abuse of process. Mr Dunne has been declared bankrupt in Ireland and the US. In June, Mr Justice McGovern ruled, in what was the first leg of Ms Killilea Dunne's challenge, that the bringing of the fraudulent transfer proceedings here did not conflict with US law. He also ruled that the Irish proceedings create a legal block which would prevent the trustee overseeing the US bankruptcy from re-litigating the matter in the US courts. The main fraudulent transfer proceedings now continue here. Mr Justice McGovern said the High Court had also already held that the determination of the Irish proceedings, under accepted legal doctrines, would bind the US trustee from re-litigating the matter in the US courts. "Having reached those conclusions, it is difficult to see how the defendant (Killilea Dunne) will be unfairly prejudiced if the matters proceed in this jurisdiction," he said. He also said all of the assets claimed by the official assignee are Irish, with the exception of a hotel in South Africa, which is held through an Irish firm. None of the asset loan transactions, share transfers or assignment which are at the centre of this case, have any connection with the US and this has been recognised by the US courts, he said. He concluded there was no question the defendant will have to litigate or defend the fraudulent transfer proceedings in two jurisdictions and will only have to do so in Ireland. She had failed to satisfy accepted legal tests in relation to the appropriate forum question. She had failed to discharge the burden of proof and he dismissed her application. In the official assignee's case here, he alleges director's loans and shares controlled by Sean Dunne in a company called Mavior were fraudulently transferred to Ms Killilea Dunne is an effort to defeat Mr Dunne's creditors. It also relates to the transfer of the Lagoon Beach Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa, and any other assets transferred to her by Mr Dunne under a February 2008 agreement. The claims are denied. Usec. Joel Maglunsod President Rodrigo Duterte has sacked a left-leaning official of the Labor Department, Undersecretary Joel Maglunsod.I expelled Joel Maglunsod. I just gave them a chance when they were new, Duterte said in a speech before rebel returnees in Catarman, Samar Tuesday. Duterte did not elaborate further but criticized the rising number of workers strikes in the country incited by the Kilusang Mayo Uno. Your ideologies. In the long run, they also want to control the government. You argued and exchanged bullets with me, then you will expect me [to say] that we are one in this government. This is nonsense, the President added. They always go on strikes, they will paralyze the economy... I will go after all the members of the (Kilusang) Mayo Uno and Joel Maglunsod, the undersecretary of Labor, said Duterte, asking his top aide Christopher Go if the executive secretary were advised on the matter. Maglunsod, a former representative for Anakpawis party-list, was the Labor undersecretary for labor relations, special concerns, regional operations, and financial services cluster. He was among the few leftists handpicked by the President to sit in the government at the start of his term along with Commission on Appointments rejects former Social Welfare chief Judy Taguiwalo and Agrarian Reform chief Rafael Mariano. Duterte had designated leftists to his government at a time when he was still talking peace with the communist rebels. The Palace said it was checking on Maglunsods status. I will verify it with the executive secretary if there is already a letter of termination... Lets just wait for the confirmation, said Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque in a radio interview. In a separate interview, Roque said Duterte was cracking down on illegal strikes, not silencing labor leaders. I think what he is saying is he will crackdown illegal strikes because there is a process that one needs to undergo to conduct a strike. And the President hates these illegal strikes, Roque said. Roque declined to say if Maglunsods termination was connected to the alleged communist plot to oust the President. I do not know if he is involved with the Red October... Only the President can say that because he has access to information that only he has access to, he said.Maglunsod, who was a political detainee during the martial law years, served as a secretary general and vice chairman for KMU promoting militant unionism. Labor groups expressed disappointment over his sudden dismissal. The militant labor group Bukluran Manggagawang Pilipino said the President was mistaken to think that the firing of Maglunsod will neutralize the increasing militance of the labor movement. The group added that it would be erroneous to conclude that the rise in labor disputes the past two years was because of Maglunsod. Duterte has no one to blame but himself for the recent rise of labor disputes because he raised the expectations of millions of wage-earners when he promised to abolish contractualization upon assuming the presidency, BMP president Luke Espirtu said. Nagkaisa! Labor Coalition said Maglunsod performed his mandate well in the Labor Department. In his short stint as undersecretary of labor for industrial relations, he has bridged the gap of trust between organized labor and the department by personally acting on complaints and facing mass actions of workers at the DOLE office in Intramuros, Nakaisa! spokesman and Partido Manggagawa chairman Rene Magtuno said. The countrys biggest labor group, the Alliance of Labor Unions-Trade Unions Congress of the Philippines (ALU-TUCP) was surprised by Dutertes action against Maglunsod. Maglunsod was very active in linking labor groups and workers organizations concerns and issues to the DOLE, business and employers groups and to the President, ALU-TUCP spokesperson Alan Tanjusay said. The labor groups said they admired the former labor undersecretary who painstakingly conducted dialogues between employers and organized labor, relaying to them the departments effort to enforce laws and regulations pertaining to labor contracting with the end in view of respecting the rights of both the workers and employers. The labor groups viewed the dismissal of Maglunsod as the administrations way to appease Dutertes true bossesforeign and local capitalists. It is evident that the firing of Maglunsod signifies where Dutertes loyalty really lies, Tanjusay said. Irish speakers are calling for 9m in funding to preserve the language and create jobs in Gaeltacht areas. Conradh na Gaeilge members are lobbying TDs in Dublin at a 10-hour 'Clinic na Gaeilge' today ahead of next week's budget. It says its Irish language and Gaeltacht investment plan can create more than 1,190 jobs. Dr Niall Comer, President of Conradh na Gaeilge, the plan, which has been agreed by 87 Irish-language and Gaeltacht groups, would "provide essential resources towards the language planning process". Irish language and Gaeltacht employment authorities have seen their resources slashed by up to 70% since 2007," he said. It is time to honour the Programme for Government and invest in our Gaeltachts and our language. Peadar Mac Fhlannchadha, Advocacy Manager with Conradh na Gaeilge, said: "As well as the representatives of many constituencies who are joining us today, other Irish speakers have been phoning their local politicians, calling into their local drop-in clinics, and sending personal emails or tweets. Like the Clinic na Gaeilge, this is enormously important work before the Budget is finalised. We are stronger as a community when we work together on these core issues ni neart go cur le cheile. Representatives from Comhlachas na gComharchumann Gaeltachta, members of the Union of Students, Ireland and other students will also be at the event today. Digital Desk Louise Roseingrave A motorcyclist was travelling fast, with dark clothes and no reflectors when he struck a Dublin Bus and died as a result of his injuries. Lucas Lapa Sanchez, a 25-year-old Brazilian living at Cremore Heights in Dublin 11, suffered multiple injuries in the collision at the entrance to the Broadstone Bus Depot on Constitution Hill in Phibsboro, Co Dublin. The Dublin Bus driver was travelling south and turning to the right to enter the depot when the accident happened at 1.05am on October 21 2015. The motorcyclist was travelling in the opposite direction, an inquest into his death heard. Dublin Bus driver Barry Kennedy was driving a ghost bus - a vehicle not in public use - when he struck the motorcyclist as he manoeuvred the bus across the junction. I was coming down towards the yellow box, indicating. When I was moving the bus into the depot he was not there, I did not see him at all. I heard a loud bang. I stopped the bus and walked in front and saw a helmet, Mr Kennedy said. Garda Earnest Pimlott of the Bridewell Garda Station was on patrol in the area. I saw the bus turning right and dragging an object in front of it, he said. At the scene, he met Barry Kennedy with his hands on his head. The injured man was wedged under the front of the bus. The bus driver raised the chassis so he was clear. I kept talking to him and told him help was on the way. He had a very faint pulse, Gda Pimlott said. Mr Sanchez was rushed to the Mater Hospital where he died on October 28 2015. A post-mortem gave the cause of death as cerebral contusion and multiple injuries due to a road traffic collision. Forensic Collision Investigator Sergeant Paul Kearney used CCTV footage to calculate the speed of the motorcycle at approximately 60kmph, while the bus was travelling at 24kmph. Mr Sanchez was wearing dark clothes with no reflectors, the court heard. The bus driver didnt see the motorist, investigating Garda Brendan Reville told the court. The bus driver was charged with careless driving causing death and found not guilty by a jury at the Circuit Court on May 8 last. The layout of the road has been changed since the fatal collision. Luas works provided an opportunity to change the layout and add traffic lights to facilitate drivers entering the Broadstone Depot. The jury returned a verdict of accidental death and endorsed the alterations to the layout of the junction. Solicitor for Dublin Bus Gerard OHerlihy extended his sympathies to Mr Sanchez family who were not present but will have access to a court recording if required. Recommendations on updating the data on incidents of sexual abuse will be brought to Cabinet "in a matter of weeks", according to the Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan. There have been calls to carry out a new report on sexual abuse and violence in Ireland because the last Sexual Abuse and Violence in Ireland (SAVI) survey was completed 16 years ago in 2002. Section 39 health and social care workers have reached an agreement on pay restoration. From April next year, staff will receive an additional 1000 in their pay with payments also to be made in the following two years. The move follows negotiations with SIPTU representatives and officials from the HSE and Department of Health with the support of the Workplace Relations Commission. SIPTU representatives will recommend the acceptance of the proposals, with the trade union saying "it is the best vehicle to achieve pay justice for all Section 39 workers". The proposals will now be balloted on, following consultation with SIPTU members. SIPTU Health Division Organiser, Paul Bell, said: These proposals have the potential to provide members not only with money in their pocket but a clear plan for Section 39 organisation workers to have their pay restored in a manner which corresponds to their counterparts directly employed by the HSE. Under these proposals, members will receive an additional payment of 1000 in their pay packets from April 2019 which will go a long way to restore pay for thousands of Section 39 workers. Payments will also be made in 2020 and 2021. These proposals ensure that, after a long and hard-fought campaign, our members working in Section 39 organisations will get full pay restoration. SIPTU Sector Organiser, Eddie Mullins, said: Our members have fought, not only to have their salaries restored, but also to acknowledge a pay link with the public service. "During this dispute, our members demonstrated great compassion and responsibility by doing everything in their power to achieve a legitimate objective without affecting on services to vulnerable clients. Our members now have a result and light at the end of the tunnel. Minister for Health, Simon Harris, and Minister of State with special responsibility for Disabilities, Finian McGrath, welcomed also the agreement. Minister Harris said: I believe that what has been agreed is a good deal which will see those who had their pay cut in these organisations benefit from an initial increase of up to 1,000 on their salary in April 2019. It is particularly positive that this deal is structured so that those who are the lowest paid will see their pay restored the quickest. "Based on the information available, it appears that almost 90% of staff who saw their pay cut will see on average three quarters of that pay reduction restored in 2019. Minister McGrath said he was "delighted" with the agreement, and said a validation and audit process will need to be carried out by the HSE "to ensure the funding sought by organisations is warranted and that pay reductions were applied". "This was particularly important to me given that a majority of staff are employed in organisations which provide essential care and support for people with disabilities across the country. "They deserve a fair deal and I believe that is what we have got," he said. Digital Desk Ann O'Loughlin The Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal against a finding that an elderly woman with dementia, who was previously prevented by a hospital from discharging herself, is lawfully detained as a ward of court in another hospital. The case raises significant issues concerning whether the High Court's wardship procedure offers sufficient safeguards in the context of the detention of people allegedly suffering from a mental disorder. In June 2016, a hospital prevented the 93-year-old woman leaving with her son to be cared for in his home due to its concerns about her mental capacity and frail physical state, having fractured both hips in recent falls. The hospital also had concerns about the behaviour of her son and daughter for reasons including the latter was once seen covering her mother in cayenne pepper and the family had bought their mother an exercise bike. After the hospital refused to discharge the woman, her son in July 2016 lost applications to the High Court under Article 40 of the Constitution arguing his mother was in unlawful detention. At the time of those Article 40 hearings, an order was made which culminated in the woman being made a ward of court. She remains in another hospital on foot of orders under the High Court's wardship jurisdiction. Last July, the Court of Appeal allowed an appeal by the son over the High Court's July 2016 rejection of his Article 40 applications but stressed its decision related only to her detention in the first hospital, which had ended by the time the appeal was heard. While agreeing the first hospital was acting in what it considered was the woman's best interests, the COA ruled that a patient must, on request, be released from a hospital unless there is a clear legal authority either under statute or as a result of a court order justifying a refusal to release. The COA said it was open to the son to bring a fresh Article 40 application before the High Court challenging his mother's current detention in the second hospital. He did so and the High Court ruled last August his mother was validly detained under the High Court wardship orders. The son then asked the Supreme Court to hear a further appeal against that finding. In a published determination this week agreeing to hear his appeal, the Supreme Court said the appeal raises issues of the interaction of the historic wardship legislation grounding the wardship jurisdiction of the High Court with modern mental health legislation. The Chief Justice, Mr Justice Frank Clarke, Mr Justice John MacMenamin and Ms Justice Iseult O'Malley said the son argued the wardship procedure does not offer sufficient safeguards in the context of detention of people allegedly suffering from a mental disorder. They stressed leave to appeal was being given solely to allow the man challenge the validity of the orders made in the wardship proceedings on grounds those were not made in line with fundamental rights under the Constitution or are incompatible with legally binding obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights. The woman's current detention remains valid unless the man wins his appeal, the judges stressed. They said the matter is urgent for reasons including the woman's age and would be case managed with a view to an early hearing. Another judgment expected to be delivered by the Supreme Court in the near future will address similar issues regarding the proper parameters of the High Court's wardship jurisdiction. There's no Christian Eriksen in the Denmark squad for the upcoming Nations League meeting with the Republic of Ireland later this month. Eriksen missed last weekend's win for Tottenham at Huddersfield and had been ruled out until the international break by his manager Mauricio Pochettino. Rep. Aniceto Bertiz III Complaining of chest pains, Rep. Aniceto Bertiz III was admitted Tuesday at St. Lukes Medical Center in Quezon City 7, three days after he was seen on camera bullying security personnel at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.House minority leader and Quezon Rep. Danilo Suarez confirmed Wednesday that Bertiz, who drew a firestorm of criticism for his behavior, was hospitalized and that he remained confined. Bertizs own party-mates, led by the second nominee of ACTS-OFW, have condemned his behavior, and some colleagues in Congress have called for his resignatio his behavior, and some colleagues in Congress have called for his resignation. Bertiz, however, said he will not resign. The House ethics committee, chaired by Agri Party-list Rep. Delphine Lee Gan, was supposed to begin its motu proprio investigation into the NAIA incident involving Bertiz. READ: Bertiz vows to submit self to House ethics probe At the NAIA Terminal 2 Saturday morning, Bertiz scolded security checker Hamilton Abdul, who had asked him to take off his shoes as part of security measures. Bertiz then shoved his identification card at Abdul and tried to grab his ID card. His actions were captured by the closed-circuit television cameras inside the airport. House sources said Bertiz, a deputy minority leader, experienced sleepless nights since his actions were exposed on the Internet. Joining Suarez at the news conference was COOP-NATCCO Party-list Rep. Anthony Bravo who said Bertiz had undergone an angioplasty in 2016. House senior Deputy Minority Leader and Buhay Hayaang Yumabong (Buhay) party-list Rep. Lito Atienza said the NAIA incident could have triggered hypertension. Like Bertiz, Suarez called for an investigation of how the CCTV footage came to be posted on social media, calling this a security breach. He also said the NAIA incident was a reminder that members of the House must adhere to the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. Also on Wednesday, the Manila International Airport Authority reminded government officials that the security pass issued to them is not an excuse to violate security procedures at the airport.Earlier, a liason officer for Bertiz turned over his ID to the airport authority. Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade also asked government officials to set a good example and respect security protocols. Having an access pass gives you the opportunity to enter the area but that does not exempt you from following the protocols there. All of us must follow and respect protocols, he said. On Sunday, a video on social media showed Bertiz deliberately disregarding security protocols. The lawmaker was seen forcibly taking the ID of the screening security officer from the Office of Transportation Security, later identified as Hamilton Abdul. The widely circulated video drew angry comments from Internet users as well as public officials. In a statement, Bertiz issued a public apology but insisted that there were Chinese-looking men who were ahead of him that were allowed to pass unchecked. READ: Bertiz apologizes for breach of airport security A review of the video footage before Bertizs arrival, however, showed no such men being assisted by NAIA personnel to get pass security. OTS Administrator Arturo Evangelista reminded Bertiz and all other passengers to abide by the laws pertaining to boarding the aircraft. The airline has all the right not to allow you to board if you dont want to be searched, Evangelista said. Airport authorities on Wednesday urged air travelers not to bring banned items to avoid missing flights or any delay, especially during the coming holidays when the number of air travelers is expected to increase. READ: Bertiz draws ethics raps from workers WashingtonThe bitter trade dispute between China and the US is increasingly spilling into the military domain, with a risky incident in the South China Sea highlighting the dangers of souring relations. In what the US Navy has called an unsafe and unprofessional encounter, a Chinese warship sailed within 41 meters of a US destroyer Sunday as it passed by Chinese-claimed features in the South China Sea, forcing the American vessel to take evasive action. The close call capped days of tit-for-tat military moves that came as President Donald Trump ramped up his trade war with China. The close encounter between the Chinese destroyer and the USS Decatur was the closest one yet, Timothy Heath, senior international defense research analyst at the RAND Corporation, told AFP. It may reflect in part the growing US-China tensions. But it also appears to reflect a growing willingness by Beijing to test the Americans in the South China Sea, he added. Beijing reacted furiously after the incident, saying Americas freedom of navigation operation threatened Chinas sovereignty and security, and damaged military relations between the two powers. The encounter followed a string of other military incidents. Last week, plans for a Beijing meeting between US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and his Chinese counterpart General Wei Fenghe fell through after China declined to make Wei available. Days earlier, China nixed a planned port visit of a US warship to Hong Kong, and canceled a meeting between the head of the Chinese navy and his American counterpart. That all came around the time US B-52 bombers took part in a combined operation with Japan over the East China Sea, and flew through international airspace over the South China Sea. The Chinese defense ministry denounced the flyovers as provocative actions. Mattis this week acknowledged tension points between the US and China, but told reporters he did not see it getting worse. The US and Chinese militaries in 2014 agreed on a code of conduct for unplanned encounters at sea, aimed at helping the two navies avoid mishaps. It was unclear whether Sundays maneuver came at Beijings requestor was initiated by the Chinese ships captainbut political motivations were likely a factor in forcing a close call.With tensions elevated, China seems motivated to risk a possible collision as a means of intimidation. There is a real risk of miscalculation, Heath said. Trumps trade war has infuriated Beijing, as did his authorization of a $1.3 billion arms sale to Taiwan, which China considers a rebel province. Washington last week enacted new tariffs against China covering another $200 billion of its imports. And Washington has placed financial sanctions on China for its recent purchase of Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets and S-400 surface-to-air missile systems. US-China military relations have been strained before. Military exchanges between the countries, including port calls, were temporarily suspended following a mid-air collision between a US EP-3 spy plane and Chinese fighter in 2001 off the south China coast that sparked a major diplomatic row. The Chinese fighter pilot was killed in the collision and the EP-3 was forced to make an emergency landing in Chinas Hainan Island, with the crew detained for 11 days before being released. Current military tensions are likely to persist, said Bonnie Glaser, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, as they suit Trumps political objectives. The president last week slapped $200 billion in tariffs on Chinese goods and has accused Beijing of interfering in the upcoming US election. This looks like a strategy from the president, Glaser told AFP. He just wants to double down on putting as much pressure on China as possible. Noting that such actions violated established rules, Glaser added the encounter in the South China Sea represented a different level of interfering in a US freedom of navigation operation. Vicinity Centres, the country's biggest retail landlord, has reaped $631 million from the sale of 11 malls, with the bulk being snapped up by the listed SCA Property, as part of the shake-up in ownership of the shopping centre sector. Currently there are close to $1 billion of additional retail assets on the market, including malls deemed non-core by Scentre Group and Stockland. But recently Blackstone and GPT Group have withdrawn their proposed divestments as they review buyers' appetites. Under the recent deal, SCA Property bought 10 malls from Vicinity Centre for $573 million, while a private investor bought the Belmont centre, Barwon Heads, Victoria. Gateway Plaza at Leopold in Victoria. Credit:Vicinity Centres The sale reflects a 5.1 per cent discount to the combined June 2018 book values of the 11 assets and a weighted average capitalisation rate of 6.9 per cent. The Australian String Quartet, with Blair Harris filling in on cello. Credit:Sam Jozeps. MUSIC SCHUBERT, LEDGER, SHOSTAKOVICH Australian String Quartet, Melbourne Recital Centre, October 2 Replacing Sharon Grigoryan (on maternity leave) in these final national series recitals for 2018, Blair Harris took on the ASQs cello line. Often a solid presence in contemporary ensembles and currently principal with the Auckland Philharmonia, Harris melded in to the ASQ fabric with ease, if something approaching understatement during Monday nights opening work, making a more individual presence in the second half. Schuberts Rosamunde String Quartet supports the popular impression of its composer as melancholy in temperament, with three lyrically superb if emotionally constrained movements before a more brisk, easygoing finale. But this performance found expressive layers in both the restraint of the opening movement (Dale Barltrops first violin an eloquent strand) and the simple sweetness of the following Andante which stayed the right side of sentimental. Melbournes Federation Square will play host to OzPod on October 17. Now in its third year, OzPod is a celebration of audio storytelling; bringing together hosts, producers, industry analysts and indie podcasters to share anecdotes and inspiration. OzPod is presented by ABC Listen. Kellie Riordan, manager of ABC Audio Studios, says the conference is about exposing participants to trends in audio, from smart speaker usage to the latest research on listening habits. We also focus on the craft of creating compelling audio for an on-demand audience," Riordan says. "[We] choose a range of amazing podcast producers from around the world and Australia to share their tips and tricks so that all podcasters, from the bedroom ones to the professionals, can learn from each other. There is a diverse range of sessions on offer, from audio mixing techniques to growing an audience, the state of the podcast industry, and the creative side of podcast production. Ask a teenager how their parents snapped a family photograph at their age, and many will wonder out loud what happened in ancient pre-selfie times. Its a delight to educate them - and I recommend you do this. Remember when you used to have to go to one of these places to get your photos? Credit:John Woudstra Explain how youd line up the subject, because "automatic focus" was not a standard offering. Then youd take the photograph before putting the camera away. Another 11 or 23 or even 35 photographs later, the film would be full, and you would open the door of the camera and remove it. The representatives are not even marginalized. Santa Banana, that incident at the airport where ACT-OFW Party-List Rep. Aniceto Bertiz flaunted his arrogance and abrasiveness just because he was made to remove his shoes shows the anomaly of party-list representation in the country. Records of deliberation during the framing of the 1987 charter show that the system was copied from the constitution of countries under a parliamentary form. When the voting came to whether the parliamentary system must be continued, those in favor lost by one vote. Hence, the unitary system was restored. Despite this, party-list representation was maintained. The reason for this was that then-President Cory Aquino wanted her Leftist friends to be part of Congress. I have always maintained that the party-list system has no place in government. Why make the people pay the salaries of Leftists serving in government? This only funds the rallies of their communist-inspired friends. For many years, I have been saying that if the Constitution is amended, party-list representation should be the first to go. Its a ripoff. Those who are supposed to represent marginalized groups are millionaires and billionaires. They are led by Michael Romero of 1-Pacman with more than P7 billion to his name, and Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, the wife of Public Works Secretary Mark Villar, with no less than P1.4 billion. Even that arrogant Bertiz is among the millionaires, with P53 million. The party-list system is indeed a big joke! How do they even get elected? I am taking off from what my colleague, former Ambassador to Greece Rigoberto Tiglao, said that a party-list group is carried in the traditional territory-based representation. This explains why party-list representatives are merely extensions of provincial and regional clans. The party-list system is a mockery of democracy! People representing marginalized groups are themselves in no way marginalized at all. Worse, they breed people like Bertiz who think being in Congress entitles him to arrogant and self-important behavior. It has also spawned the formation of fake marginalized groups not contemplated by the Constitution. There is a lot of graft and corruption that goes with this starting from the Commission on Elections.The representation of moneyed people as party-list representatives is only the tip of the iceberg. * * * Presidential Communications Operations Office Assistant Secretary Mocha Uson has resigned. Since it has been said that only the President can fire her, Mr. Duterte must have realized that Uson was not already embarrassing him. She has become a barnacle in the ship of state. This must be excised. I have no doubt that even Secretary Martin Andanar is more than relieved with Uson out of the picture. She has done enough damage to the agency and to the President. I think its about time the Office of the Press Secretary is brought back. * * * The question of whether Senator Antonio Trillanes applied for amnesty and complied with all its requirements now boils down to credibility. Who can we believeAFP Chief of Staff Carlito Galvez who said that the senator applied for amnesty, or Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque who insists that Galvez is not a lawyer? Roque says he would rather rely on the judge who issued a warrant for Trillanes arrest. I am inclined to believe the Chief of Staff. It is the military that keeps the records. Just how and why the original copy disappeared is a mystery. One of the two judges handling the Trillanes case may have issued an arrest warrant, but until the Supreme Court hands down its decision, I will suspend my own judgment. I personally do not like Trillanes for his arrogance and abrasiveness, but still I believe we need more people like him who are courageous in voicing their dissent. Absence of dissent could only promote tyranny. * * * Roque is saying six Cabinet members are running for public office in next years election. I can think of Roque himself, special assistant Bong Go, political affairs adviser Francis Tolentino, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III and perhaps Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Pinol. I wonder who the others are. A defence barrister for the Canberra teenager accused of trying to kill his university classmates and tutor with a baseball bat told a jury on Wednesday that it is abundantly clear he was mentally ill and impaired. But prosecutors urged the jury to approach the psychiatric evidence with extreme caution, arguing that as a science it had many shortcomings. Alex Ophel. Mr Ophel, 19, is accused of attempting to murder four classmates and his tutor during a statistics tutorial at the Australian National University at 9.15am on August 25 last year. The attack which stopped when Mr Ophel was restrained left two students with broken arms, while another two people suffered fractured skulls and another lost part of their finger. A Canberra mental health ward has refused to admit a woman accused of twice assaulting one of its nurses, a court heard Wednesday. The woman was arrested following the allegations of assault and breaking the nurse's eye glasses but the court ordered she be returned to the Canberra Hospital for psychiatric assessment. The hospital sent the woman back to the ACT Magistrates Court on Wednesday, with a diagnosis of amphetamine use disorder and a personality disorder but no psychotic illness. She applied for bail, but prosecutors opposed her release over the alleged assaults on September 23 and 24. The woman was between September 21 and 25 a voluntary patient of the ward's high dependency unit. Residents and business owners along the route of Sydney's $2.1 billion light rail line have recounted the heavy personal and financial toll the troubled project has had on their lives. A state inquiry into the impact of the project heard on Wednesday from business owners who told of how disruption from construction of the line had forced them to close, left them close to ruin, split their families or on medication for depression. Emanuel Tzirtzilakis, who has a cafe on Devonshire Street in Surry Hills, said he was on the brink of financial ruin and on the verge of checking into a psychiatric hospital. Twenty-five full-time staff at Brisbane's XXXX brewery could be made redundant in what the workers' union has described as "a sad day for Queensland". The brewery owner, Lion, said the proposed redundancies will be across a range of roles and equate to almost one-sixth of the brewery's workforce being lost. The XXXX Brewery at Milton. "In order to remain competitive in the marketplace against a backdrop of a range of cost pressures, a reduction in volume within our brewery network, and the continued decline in the mainstream beer market, we are proposing to reduce the number of shifts at the Milton brewery, which may result in 25 full-time roles being made redundant," a Lion spokesman said. "We acknowledge that we are in the midst of negotiations towards a new enterprise agreement, however, these proposed changes are separate to those negotiations and reflect external market conditions. One of Queensland's most well-known sex offenders will remain under the supervision of authorities after the state government won a court appeal. A supervision order against Robert John Fardon was due to expire on Wednesday but a Court of Appeal decision means he will now remain under constant monitoring until his the initial order is extended. Robert John Fardon has been constantly monitored and undergoes regular counselling as part of a Dangerous Prisoner (Sex Offender) Order. Credit:Nine News Justice Phillip Morrison said he was satisfied Fardon could be considered dangerous enough without constant observation, and that ongoing management was needed. Lawyers for Attorney-General Yvette D'Ath lodged an urgent appeal against a Supreme Court judge's ruling in August that the 69-year-old's risk to the community had faded with age. Going: Explosives are detonated at the former Alcoa Anglesea power station. Credit:Joe Armao The former Alcoa power station in Anglesea is now just a mess of tangled steel after it was flattened by explosives Wednesday afternoon. The six-storey structure was demolished just after 1pm following a failed attempted in May this year. Experts from the UK were subcontracted to rig and detonate the explosives. A single towering industrial stack was left intact deliberately spared the demolition. Defunct stations would be rebuilt, new train tracks laid and two brand new train fleets bought to achieve the Coalitions $19 billion European-style fast regional rail plan. > Credit:Matt Golding On Wednesday, Liberal leader Matthew Guy promised that if he wins the November election, trains will zoom to regional areas at 200km/h, services will run express to Geelong, and much of the V/Line track would be rebuilt. The pre-election rail pitch to regional Victoria where the Coalition is vying to win or retain seats such as Shepparton, Bass, South Barwon and Ripon would take a decade to build. Trips from Melbourne to Ballarat would be cut from 73 to 45 minutes, the Coalition said. It would take 70 minutes to get to Bendigo (now 103 minutes) and 117 minutes to Shepparton (now 146 minutes). A magistrate has criticised a delay in finalising expert reports in the case against the man accused of murdering young comedian Eurydice Dixon. Jaymes Todd, 19, who is accused of sexually assaulting and killing Ms Dixon in Carlton North in the early hours of June 13, appeared before Melbourne Magistrates Court on Wednesday via video link from custody, charged with one count of murder and one of rape. Eurydice Dixon. The court heard investigators were yet to receive pathology and DNA reports. The hold-up meant Mr Todd's lawyers were unable to request a list of the witnesses they wanted to question at the hearing that determines whether the teenager stands trial. Prosecutor Christina Teague said the pathologist handling the case had been overworked in recent months and was apologetic about not completing the reports, but had now made doing so a priority. Mr Guy is yet to reveal how the mammoth project will be funded, but said he hoped the Federal Government would invest in it. Under the ambitious plan, Opposition Leader Matthew Guy promised to build a European-style rail network in a bid to encourage more people to live in country areas. The opposition has pledged to build a $19 billion high-speed regional rail link with trains reaching speeds of 200km/h if it wins Novembers state election. He also conceded he is yet to undertake a business plan to determine whether the project is viable but would do so before the November election. "As far as I am concerned, I am going to the public with a very clear view as to how I want to grow the state," he told radio station 3AW on Wednesday. "One of the things the business case will do is certainly identify efficiencies in how we can build, and some of the construction and timing and sequencing." Mr Guy said some train lines would have to be closed for periods of time due to construction works, but it was necessary to invest in heavy rail to "decentralise" Melbourne's growth, with the population in the city soaring by 2700 people a week. "I'm seeking a mandate from Victorians to lead a government that will decentralise our growth and take the pressure off Melbourne - this is how I want to do it," he said. A 72-year-old man will front court in Melbourne over a string of historical child sex offences after police extradited him from Brisbane. Sano Taskforce detectives, with the assistance of Queensland Police, arrested and charged the Rockhampton man earlier this week. The former Victorian resident was arrested in the Brisbane suburb of Spring Hill just after 11am on Tuesday. He has been charged with 32 historic offences including rape and indecent assault. Its understood the man was working and living in western Victoria between 1980 and 1982 when the alleged incidents took place. Weather "not typical" for this time of year has prompted a severe weather warning for the Perth metropolitan area. The Bureau of Meteorology issued the warning just before 11am on Wednesday morning, with regions in the firing line including Perth, Armadale, Dwellingup, Ellenbrook, Kalamunda, Midland, Mundaring and Pinjarra. The weather is set to hit on Wednesday. Credit:Louie Douvis The alert warned wild weather would hit about 8pm on Wednesday, bringing with it winds up to 90km/h. "The Bureau of Meteorology advised a strong high pressure ridge to the south of the state and a developing low pressure centre offshore from the Lower West will produce strong and gusty easterly winds over the Perth metropolitan area and particularly over the Perth hills," the statement said. Dozens of bus routes, including the free CAT bus networks in the Perth CBD, could face disruptions from next week after more than 200 drivers voted to take protected industrial action. The CAT bus services could be affected by the action. Credit:File image The action, slated to begin Monday, could mean 'fare-free days' for commuters, but could also lead to delays. The industrial action centres around one of Perths biggest bus companies, Transdev. Operating on behalf of Transperth, the company provides bus services in the Fremantle, Joondalup, Mandurah and Rockingham areas. Police and the Department of Communities thanked the public on Friday for their assistance after locating two teenagers who had been missing in separate incidents. Kaya Zdencanovic. Kaya Zdencanovic, 14, from Manjimup travelled to Perth with friends in August but had not been seen since. Tyson Michael-Riley, 14, was last seen in the Rockingham area on September 26. Earlier this week the department issued a plea for information on the whereabouts of both teenagers. A $30 million-a-year tax on tampons and other female sanitary products has been abolished by state and federal governments. Treasurers from NSW, Victoria and all the other states and territories unanimously agreed to federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg's proposal on Wednesday, killing off the 10 per cent luxury levy on the products. The decision comes after more than a decade of campaigning from women's groups against the GST being applied to tampons and sanitary pads, which they have long argued are essential and should therefore be exempt from the tax. Condoms and lubricant are not subject to the GST. Illegal prostitution is causing sleepless nights for owners of brothels in Queensland. Prostitution Licensing Authority chairman Walter Tutt said the proliferation of "massage parlours" was hurting the licensed brothel sector. Illegal prostitution at massage parlours is having an impact on Queensland's legal industry. Credit:Lisa Maree Williams "While there is, of course, the legitimate remedial and therapeutic massage clinic, many are clearly a 'front' for illegal prostitution which must be addressed, despite the inherent difficulty in acquiring the necessary evidence to secure a conviction," he said in the PLA's latest annual report. Mr Tutt said for the foreseeable future, the growth in the licensed brothel sector would be constrained and the number of brothels in Queensland would probably stay at the current levels. Hong Kong: The event on the sidelines of the Conservative Party of Britain's annual conference was meant to discuss "the erosion of freedom, the rule of law and autonomy in Hong Kong." It featured several generations of prominent democracy supporters from the former British colony. The reporter is restrained by an organiser after slapping another. Credit:Screengrab Near the end of the talk Sunday in Birmingham, England, Benedict Rogers, a human-rights activist and critic of the Chinese government, was concluding his remarks by saying, "I am pro-China, not anti-China. I want China and its people to succeed." Then a woman began shouting from the audience. "You are a liar. You are anti-China. You want to separate China," shouted the woman, according to attendees. "And you are not even Chinese. The rest are all traitors!" A heckler at a political event is hardly unusual. The woman was no ordinary heckler, though. She was a reporter from China's state-run international broadcaster, CGTN (rebranded from CCTV). Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire: We must dry up the channels of financing of terrorists.'' Credit:Bloomberg Police also raided the headquarters of a Muslim religious association in northern France on Tuesday, seizing weapons and detaining three people. The building houses a Shiite federation, an anti-Zionist party and other groups. The assets of the groups and their leaders were frozen as well. Paris: France has said Iran's Intelligence Ministry was behind a plot to attack an exiled opposition group's rally near Paris in June and has seized assets belonging to Tehran's intelligence services and two Iranian nationals. A joint statement by France's interior, economy and foreign ministers made clear the six-month freeze on the Intelligence Ministry's internal security section was linked to the alleged attempt to bomb the June 30 rally outside Paris of the People's Mujahedeen of Iran, or MEK. An attempted attack was thwarted, the statement said. This act of an extreme gravity envisioned on our territory could not go without a response. The ministers called the action preventive, targeted and proportionate. The statement did not explain what funds might be in France. In the second move, authorities froze the assets of Centre Zahra France, a Muslim association in the town of Grande-Synthe, outside Dunkirk, as well as those of three organisations and four men linked to the groups. The three groups are under Zahra France's wing and include the Shiite Federation of France and the Anti-Zionist Party. Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin has called Sergei Skripal, a former Russian double agent poisoned in Britain, a scumbag who had betrayed Russia. Skripal and his daughter Yulia were found slumped on a public bench in the English city of Salisbury in March. Britain says they were poisoned with a nerve agent administered by Russian intelligence officers. Russia denies involvement in the affair, which has deepened its international isolation. "I see that some of our colleagues are pushing the theory that Mr Skripal was almost some kind of human rights activist," Putin said at an energy forum in Moscow when asked about the case. Latest News Last sub-2% rate goes as ANZ hikes again Second big hike in three weeks at major lender "Significant concern" for Premier as housing affordability crisis looms ABS stats show approvals drop off, with politicians warned of impact down the track A non-bank finance group has launched two products to protect developers from failed settlements and lower pre-sales across Australia. Chifley Securities has developed the products to tackle the slow housing market. The first product is in the form of a guarantee policy, which secures a percentage of the presales in case purchasers cannot complete once the development is finished. This is a problem they have found increasingly as the property market tightens. The second product layers an additional loan to refinance any unsold apartments (residual stock) at the end of construction. The aim of these products is to allow the construction loan to be paid back on time and the developer takes his share of the profit. Chifley Securities principal, Dominic Lambrinos, said, We have launched the products to protect developers during what is now a well-publicised slowdown in the market, where off the plan purchases are not being completed at settlement as tighter lending controls are being put in place and much lower activity by investors. This is particularly apparent in markets like Brisbane and Perth, where there has been a big drop in settlements of new dwellings. The home property sector has come off 7.3% in Sydney and Melbourne over the last 12 months, with developers facing difficult hurdles to meet the major lenders tougher presale conditions for construction loans. Lambrinos explained that some banks are asking for a 100% debt cover or more on pre-sales as one of their condition's precedent. Private lenders will usually lend with lower pre-sales levels but at a higher cost of finance. He noted that investors, especially from overseas, have fallen away markedly over the last year, when they paid deposits up to two years ago on dwellings off the plan in developments, whose values have fallen from what they were when the deposits were made. He added We expect that the tighter finance conditions and less investment activity will weaken the dwelling market further over the next 12 months, causing a worsening problem for developers who gained finance on the basis that settlements will be made. We have tested the product on a few projects that were facing collapse because of the settlement drop-off and believe it will quickly gain popularity as property market and lending conditions tighten over the next 12 months." Chifley Securities lifted its lending to developers and landowners from $1.8b to $2b in the 2017-2018 financial year, with a large proportion of loans going to projects which are underway. Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who fled the country last year after emerging as a critic of the government, has gone missing after he entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, for paperwork on Tuesday. Khashoggi, according to his Turkish fiancee who accompanied him to the consulate, did not come out after entering the diplomatic mission to secure documentation of his divorce so that he could remarry, Reuters reports. I dont know whats happening. I dont know if hes inside or if they took him somewhere else, the fiancee who asked not to be named told Reuters by telephone after waiting 7 hours and half outside the compound. She called Turkish police to investigate the incident. Khashoggi, a former newspaper editor and political commentator flew to the U.S. in September last year on a self-imposed exile. He has written several columns in the Washington Post slamming the kingdoms policies towards Qatar, Yemen and Canada and usually takes stance on the crackdown on the media and activists, the agency said. I have left my home, my family and my job, and I am raising my voice, he wrote in September 2017. To do otherwise would betray those who languish in prison. I can speak when so many cannot. The Washington Post has called for the Saudi journalists release noting that his detention is unfair and outrageous. We are monitoring the situation closely, trying to gather more information. It would be unfair and outrageous if he has been detained for his work as a journalist and commentator, said the Posts international opinions editor, Eli Lopez. Khashoggis disappearance follows the arrest last week in Saudi Arabia of economist Essam al-Zamil. Zamil who is a friend of Khashoggi, has been charged with joining a terrorist organization, meeting with foreign diplomats and inciting protests. Saudi Arabia has stepped up clampdown on critics and dissenters. Dozens of activists including several women who called for the end of ban on womens rights to drive have been languishing in prison. In November, dozens of business tycoons including 11 Princes were locked up on corruption charges. Majority of them have been so far freed after signing monetary agreements with the government. Amid rumours that US-based carmaker General Motors (GM) is in advanced talks to sell its manufacturing facility in Pune, the company said that India would continue to be an important and exclusive destination to source small sub-4 metre cars for its global market. The company, which currently produces one model -- the Beat, in this facility, is planning to manufacture one more product in India for the global markets. There were reports that the company was in talks with JSW Energy to sell its Pune facility and that it was valued at around Rs 30-35 billion. After unveiling a ... Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor President Donald Trump Tuesday told supporters that he had told the Saudi monarch Salman he would not stay in power for two weeks without Americas protection and that he should pay. We protect Saudi Arabia. Would you say theyre rich. And I love the King, King Salman. But I said King were protecting you you might not be there for two weeks without us you have to pay for your military, Trump said to cheers at a rally in Southaven, Mississippi. The remarks came following a Saturday phone call between the two allies. The two leaders, according to Saudi state-owned news agency SPA, discussed efforts being made to maintain supplies to ensure oil market stability and global economic growth. Trumps comments are expected not to may irk the kingdom which relies on the U.S to counter its regional arch foe Iran. The kingdom last year in May was pleased to be the country chosen by Trump for his maiden foreign tour. Trump also withdrew from the 2015 nuclear accord between Iran and world leaders, to the satisfaction of Saudi Arabia, which has been opposed to the deal it viewed as a world stage for Iran. Trump has slammed Arab allies over poor contribution in keeping Iran and terror groups at bay in the region. His administration is currently pushing for the formation of an Arab NATO with the aim of curbing Irans influence in region. The newly constituted board of Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services (IL&FS) will hold its first meeting on Thursday in Mumbai to take stock of the situation at the beleaguered group, according to a senior official of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. The board is also expected to discuss issues such as the appointment of the management team. The Uday Kotak-led board, which is awaiting regulatory approvals from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), is likely to submit its preliminary assessment report by next week. It will also ... "The passing of Aadhaar Act as a money bill is a fraud on the Constitution, said Justice DY Chandrachud in his dissenting judgement on the 2016 Aadhaar Act on September 26, 2018. If a Constitution has to survive political aggrandisement, notions of power and authority must give compliance to rule of law. With two sessions still to go (the 2018 winter session and the 2019-20 budget session), the 16th Lok Sabha (2014-19) has already passed 9% more money bills than the 15th (2009-14). Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare on Wednesday announced that the government has agreed to farmers' demand to keep out of the list of banned vehicles by the Green Tribunal (NGT). The minister further clarified that will be kept out of the list since these are equipment of agriculture. "NGT's order is that diesel vehicles more than 10 yrs old can't enter Delhi NCR. Farmers' demanded that their are equipment of agriculture and should be kept out of vehicles' list. Government agreed. Centre will make efforts with the government (Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana) of the region," Shekhawat told ANI. His statement comes after the Kisan Kranti Padyatra was called off on Wednesday morning. The padyatra started on September 23 by the Bharatiya Kisan Union in the capital. The protesting farmers had even reached Kisan Ghat, the memorial of renowned farmer leader Chaudhary Charan Singh on late Tuesday night. The green tribunal had on November 26, 2016, banned 10-year-old diesel vehicles in Delhi-NCR, saying "they are the prime source of air pollution in Delhi". Russian Defense Minister has announced that his country completed the delivery of surface-to-air missile systems as promised following the downing last month of a Russian spy aircraft manned by 15 servicemen who all died. A Syrian defense force hit the Russian plane while targeting Israeli fighter jets. The work was finished a day ago, Sergei Shoigu said. He told a meeting of the Russian security council Monday that Syria has received S-300 systems including a total of four launch platforms. Russia announced late last month that it would supply the Syrian army with the modern air defense system after it accused the Israeli army of deception and lack of professionalism after its Il-20 electronic intelligence plane was brought down by Syrian defense forces. The Russian spy aircraft came in the range of Syrian fire aimed at Israeli F-16 planes, which were carrying airstrikes against Irans alleged proxy forces in Latakia province. Israel blamed the Syrian army for the tragedy and provided Russia its own account but Moscow brushed aside the Israeli view. Shoigu also added that it will take three months to train the Syrian military to operate the new air defense systems. Aside from surface-to-air missile system, Russian authorities also added radioelectronic warfare equipment, which enables the Russian army to control the airspace in the area used for strikes on Syrian soil. Israel and the U.S. fumed over the delivery, which Tel Aviv believe will end in the hands of irresponsible individuals. Analysts said the new equipment will make Israeli fighter jets vulnerable to the Syrian army. Thirty years after lakhs of farmers led by Mahendra Singh Tikait occupied the lawns of the Boat Club for several days, farmers led by his sons have rattled New Delhi once again. But this time around, the farmers have not been allowed to enter the capital. Thousands of protesting farmers from north India, under the banner of the Bhartiya Kisan Union, began the Kisan Kranti Yatra on September 23 from Haridwar. On Tuesday, when they reached the border of Delhi, as was their plan, the police stood in their path with barricades, water cannons, tear gas, and lathis. The farmers had ... Hardly. Reconciliation between the Koreas? Rather premature. Peace between Ethiopia and Eritrea? Probably missed the deadline. As the 2018 looms, it's easier to rule out names than guess who's going to win. This year the field of possibilities facing the five members of the Norwegian committee tasked with awarding the prize was pretty wide, with 331 individuals and organisations proposed for the prestigious prize, which will be announced on Friday in Oslo. And, as usual, despite the fact the list of candidates is a secret, predictions about who might win are gathering pace. With the postponement of this year's Literature Prize for the first time in 70 years over a #MeToo scandal at the Swedish Academy, Friday's peace award has become the most highly anticipated Nobel announcement this year. Looking at the odds on some of the online betting sites, you might think North Korean leader and his South Korean counterpart Moon Jae-in were the front-runners for their efforts at rapprochement between the two nations. But the Nobel experts -- who are more often than not wrong -- are scratching their heads. ALSO READ: Why India should realise that not winning a Nobel Prize is not a bad thing "On the one hand, the inter-Korean breakthrough is I think the most dramatic thing in this field this year," said Dan Smith, head of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). "On the other hand, I wonder whether it would be premature to be giving the prize on that basis this year." Apart from anything else, Kim's record on human rights hardly stands in his favour. Could Moon get it on his own? "(He) did well, with the peace-promoting use of the (Winter) Olympic Games" in Pyeongchang, said Peter Wallensteen, a Swedish professor who specialises in international relations. But what of Trump? Certain international figures like Britain's Boris Johnson, when he was foreign minister, and even Moon himself have suggested the US leader could win the prize for his initiatives on the Korean peninsula. At 7-1, the bombastic American president is one of three frontrunners flagged by online bookies Betsson, far ahead of other global figures like France's Emmanuel Macron, Britain's Theresa May and Russia's Vladimir Putin all with odds of 75-1. Such a prize would be "inappropriate," said Smith, pointing to a string of decisions by Trump which "are very negative as far as peace is concerned", most notably withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement and the Iran nuclear deal. And in any case, the only known Trump nomination submitted to the Nobel committee was fake, filed by someone suspected of identity fraud as only certain individuals are allowed to propose names. The nascent reconciliation between Ethiopia and Eritrea has also fuelled hope that a durable peace can be reached between the two neighbouring countries after 20 years of war. For Wallensteen, the peace prize could go to Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed. But he only took power in April with his peace overtures coming to fruition this summer. That is a little late for the Nobel committee, which takes nominations at the start of the year. Given the lack of certainty and the limited scope of progress on potentially prize-winning initiatives, some observers are turning to some longer-term contenders. With the #MeToo movement raising global awareness about sexual abuse and harassment, the award could honour those engaged in the fight against sexual violence, such as Congolese gynaecologist Denis Mukwege or Yazidi rape victim Nadia Murad. Nominated many times in the past, Mukwege has spent two decades helping women recover from the violence and trauma of rape in war-torn eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, while Murad became an activist after being kidnapped by Islamic State group militants and held as a sex slave. Henrik Urdal, head of the Peace Research Institute of Oslo (Prio), believes the award could go to the UN's World Food Programme (WFP), which feeds millions of starving people every year. From the battlefields of Yemen to the Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh, "we are seeing now that hunger is becoming again one of the bigger humanitarian challenges of our time," he said. Other potential laureates include the UN refugee agency UNHCR, jailed Saudi blogger Raif Badawi, organisations defending the media such as Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists (RSF) and Russian human rights champions like the NGO Memorial and opposition newspaper Novaya Gazeta. With everything up in the air, the verdict will only be known on Friday at 11:00 am (0900 GMT). Toy initially studied epidemiology, the branch of medicine focused on the prevalence and distribution of disease. But one of her professors got her hooked on mathematical modeling. She earned a PhD in public health at Erasmus University Medical Center in Rotterdam and became a decision scientist. A decision scientist helps to pick up loose ends when decisions have to be made. They consider, among other things, the costs associated with various alternatives, Toy said. For instance, when faced with cancer treatment alternatives, what is the best alternative for the population and the person? As a graduate student, Toy looked at the public health impact of antiviral therapy for hepatitis B. Her work resulted in public health policy changes in the Netherlands and in Turkey. After completing her PhD, Toy accepted a fellowship at Harvard to study international health and spent a good deal of time in China doing research. She focused on several cost-effective interventions for chronic hepatitis B infection and became a recognized expert, publishing her work in prominent journals. China also enacted health policy changes because of Toys work, which provided policymakers the evidence they needed to procure low-cost drugs for a national viral hepatitis treatment program. What if? To build her cost-effectiveness models, Toy starts with figuring out how many lives can be saved with a particular treatment, and then she plays with variables contributing to costs to see under what conditions the treatment will be cost-effective or cost-saving. She does this by asking, What if? If there is a 10 percent prevalence rate of a disease, but most of it is seen in adult males, what if 90 percent of those men were screened for the disease? What if 80 percent of those who had the disease got treated? She said she always has to think of the future to include factors that may not be relevant now. A cure might be within reach, or bioindustry costs may change, or the political climate could impact a number of variables, she said. We need simplified tools to communicate complex information to patients. One of the biggest challenges of being a decision scientist is getting access to the specific data sets needed to build a particular model, Toy said. Sometimes physicians or researchers or drug companies just dont want to share data with you, she said. Now that she has established herself as a leader in the field, its easier to develop collaborations. Toy came to Stanford in 2013 as a postdoctoral scholar to work with Samuel So, MD, executive director of the Asian Liver Center, which seeks to address the disproportionately high prevalence of chronic hepatitis B and liver cancer in Asians and Asian-Americans. Toy traveled to the Philippines, Mongolia, Indonesia and Australia, among other places, to contribute to the centers outreach efforts and to gather information for WHO. The best part about being a decision scientist, Toy said, is being able to create user-friendly tools that health ministries can use to inform decisions affecting health policy. She built a model in a spreadsheet that was made freely available to health ministries and is now available online. She recently gave a two-day workshop in Indonesia to teach health care leaders how to use it and how to enter and adjust variable amounts to lower the cost of health care. It also serves as an outreach tool, she said. By emphasizing that hepatitis B is a serious disease, this sort of outreach can impact health policy. Basis of a national strategy Toy was commissioned by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine to model the potential impact of improving chronic hepatitis B patient care and treatment in the United States. I was very humbled that I could be asked to do such a thing, she said. It made me very happy and proud to be calling the U.S. my home. It really made me feel like I was at home. Her study, published in March of 2017, concluded that it was feasible to eliminate the public health problem of hepatitis B in the country by 2030 and formed the basis of a national strategy that changed health care policy in the United States. She was invited by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to present her hepatitis B model the following month at the viral hepatitis summit in Atlanta. Her colleagues praised her ability to make such a complicated model easy to understand in the presentation. The conference was streamed live. Her family and friends were thrilled to be able to watch from over 4,000 miles away. They took so many screenshots! Toy said. Looking to the future, Toy is interested in expanding her work to have a broader reach and developing applications that havent been explored yet. Shes working on a prediction model of liver cancer for patients to use. Nothing like that is currently available. By entering basic data such as age, gender and blood test results, the tool will calculate the probability of liver cancer in a given amount of time and can potentially guide the patient to follow recommended monitoring and treatment, Toy said. We need simplified tools to communicate complex information to patients. It will be a collaborative effort, drawing on the expertise of clinical psychologists, user-experience designers, biomedical informaticists and decision scientists. This is using public outreach on an individual level to affect patient outcomes, Toy said. Putting these powerful tools in the hands of patients has the potential to make a huge impact on behavior change. Does Toy use decision models in her personal life? When she was in Boston, she used modeling for decision-making in life just for fun with a few colleagues, she said. We would try to answer a question in our personal life and give weights/utilities to some of these states to predict an outcome. She doesnt do that anymore but does apply the pragmatic part of modeling to her life. I used to be more spontaneous with decision-making, but lately I am trying to take my time, she said. India's central bank said on Wednesday it will relax external commercial borrowings (ECB) policy to allow state-run oil marketing companies to raise external debt for working capital purposes. The Reserve Bank of India will permit oil marketing firms to raise overseas funds with minimum average maturity period of 3 or 5 years under the automatic route, it said in a statement. It lifted the individual borrowing limit set at $750 million under the ECB framework. The move comes in light of the rupee's drop to a record low on Wednesday triggered by a sharp rise in global ... Mail addressed to President Donald Trump and the was suspected of containing the deadly poison ricin, officials said. The US Secret Service said it had obtained a "suspicious envelope" addressed to Trump on Monday, the same day at least two suspicious packages were intercepted at a screening center for mail, according to a Defense Department spokesman. "The envelope was not received at the White House, nor did it ever enter the White House," the Secret Service said. "We can confirm that we are working jointly with our law enforcement partners to fully investigate this matter." Chris Sherwood, a spokesman, said authorities at its screening site "recognized some suspicious packages," noting they were "suspected to be ricin." He stressed that authorities were still waiting for confirmation that the packages contained ricin. Pentagon police referred the matter to the FBI for investigation. A defense official told AFP the packages were addressed to Defense Secretary and Navy chief Admiral John Richardson. While located on the Pentagon campus, the mail facility is not within the main building itself. Employees wear white protective suits in order to examine mail suspected of containing ricin, which has been used in terror plots. The White and Pentagon pieces of mail were likely linked and contained a crude substance made from castor bean that authorities were not technically calling "ricin" until further testing, CNN reported, citing a source familiar with the joint federal investigation. Produced by processing castor beans, ricin is lethal in minute doses if swallowed, inhaled or injected. It is 6,000 times more potent than cyanide, with no known antidote. ALSO READ: Donald Trump clears deck for China trade war by striking new Nafta deal Highly toxic, it can cause nausea, vomiting, internal bleeding and difficulty breathing, leading to death from organ failure or the collapse of the circulatory system. "FBI Special Agents took possession of two suspicious envelopes that had been screened at the Pentagon mail facility. Those envelopes are currently undergoing further testing," the FBI said in a statement. Colonel Rob Manning, a Defense Department spokesman, said all mail received at the Pentagon's screening facility on Monday was "placed under quarantine and poses no threat to Pentagon personnel." Pentagon authorities showed reporters the secure area where mail is received. Defense Department workers in white protective suits screen every piece of post that comes in, about 500,000 items per year, officials said. Earlier, two people were hospitalized in Houston, Texas after being exposed to a white powdery substance found in letters addressed to Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican, US media reported. In a U-turn, has announced that its close ally would not join the $50 billion China- Economic Corridor, days after Islamabad said Riyadh will be the third "strategic partner" of China's flagship project, the Belt and Road Initiative. The is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of President Xi Jinping aimed at enhancing China's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects. Minister for Planning and Development Khusro Bakhtiar told media on Tuesday that the cash-rich kingdom's proposed investments would fall under a separate bilateral arrangement, Dawn news reported. " is not to become a collateral strategic partner in the This impression is not true," he said. A third country can participate in the China- Economic Corridor (CPEC) by taking part in the business and investment ventures arising out of the project, Bakhtiar said. "The framework between China and Pakistan is bilateral and is not entering that framework as a third-party investor, rather the base of the will be broadened and its pace will be expedited," he said. Last month, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said that Saudi Arabia is the third "strategic partner" of the CPEC, soon after Prime Minister Imran Khan returned from his first foreign trip to the kingdom. Interestingly Chaudhry was sitting with Bakhtiar when he issued clarification that Saudi Arabia participation in the CPEC was not as third partner in the project. Bakhtiar further said that there was no decision to bring a third country, like Saudi Arabia, under the framework of the CPEC. He was responding to questions about the possibility of Saudi Arabia becoming part of the Joint Working Groups or Joint Coordination Committee on the CPEC. Bakhtiar said there could be many offshoots of the CPEC where third countries could be involved in trilateral arrangement for infrastructure development, like China-Pakistan-Japan, China-Pakistan-Saudi Arabia or China-Pakistan-Germany. The minister dodged questions when asked how the cost of Main Railway Line (ML-I) had been reduced by USD 2 billion from USD 8.2 billion to USD 6.2 billion as claimed by Railways Minister Shaikh Rasheed Ahmed. "I have noticed this today that Sheikh Rasheed is making some efforts (to reduce the cost) but not to my knowledge. Nothing has come in front of me to suggest that the cost has come down," he said. Bakhtiar said the CPEC portfolio currently stands at about USD 50 billion, of which about USD 6 billion was government-to-government loan and remaining in Independent Power Producers mode mostly in the energy sector. About USD 29 billion worth of projects were currently in progress. He said the CPEC had far bigger potential than USD 50 billion and would keep expanding with time as new projects come up but the previous government treated and played it like a T-20 match instead of a five-day test series and focused mostly on projects which could be completed during its tenure. Currently, a Saudi delegation is in Pakistan for initial assessment to capitalise on the Pakistani offer. India has opposed the CPEC project and protested to China as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Russia and Saudi Arabia struck a private deal in September to raise oil output to cool rising prices and informed the United States before a meeting in Algiers with other producers, four sources familiar with the plan said. Perry told of plans before Algiers talks By Olesya Astakhova and Rania El Gamal. US President Donald Trump has blamed the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) for high crude prices and called on it to boost output to bring down fuel costs before the US congressional elections on November 6. The sources said Saudi Energy Minister Khalid ... Iran's Opec governor said on Wednesday that Saudi Arabia and Russia have violated Opec's agreement on output cuts by producing more crude, adding that the two countries would not be able to produce enough oil to replace a reduction in Iranian output. A set of US sanctions targeting Iran's oil industry is due to take effect in November. ALSO READ: Standoff between Opec, traders on oil outlook fuelling price rise: Analyst Hossein Kazempour Ardebili was quoted as saying by SHANA, the oil ministry's news agency, that US sanctions on Iranian oil were ... Opec and oil traders are now in fundamental disagreement about the market outlook and the standoff is fuelling a sharp rise in prices that could spell trouble for the global economy over the next 18 months. The overall balance between supply and demand is healthy according to a statement from the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee of Opec and non-Opec producers last month. The committee expressed its satisfaction regarding the current oil market outlook, according to a press statement released afterwards (JMMC meets in Algiers to monitor developments in ... The Trump administration is reviewing ways to clamp down on the export of US technology that China's government could use in its surveillance and internment of minority Muslims, amid reports of mass detentions of ethnic Uighurs and others in the Xinjiang region. In a letter to the leaders of a congressional committee, seen by Reuters on Tuesday, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said his department, in consultation with the State Department and other agencies, could announce export policy changes within weeks. "We are conducting this review expeditiously and expect to ... Nuclear weapons have held the world hostage for more than 70 years. Although they possess terrifying power and the world has come close to nuclear war on several occasions, these weapons have only been used twice, in 1945, by the United States against Japan. Advocates of deterrence believe that nuclear weapons actually kept the peace during the Cold War. The United States and Soviet Union, according to this theory, did not attack each other directly because of the fear that one side or the other would launch an ICBM, the conflict would quickly escalate, and the world would go up in ... The UN's top court ordered the United States Wednesday to suspend sanctions on "humanitarian" goods for in a stunning setback for US President The Court of Justice (ICJ) handed down the bombshell judgement after asked it to halt economic measures that reimposed after pulling out of a landmark nuclear deal with Tehran. Judges in The Hague unanimously ruled that the sanctions on some goods breached a 1955 "friendship treaty" between and the US that predates Iran's Islamic Revolution. "The court finds unanimously that... the United States of America... shall remove by means of its choosing any impediments arising from the measures announced on 8 May to the free exportation to Iran of medicines and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities" as well as airplane parts, chief judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf said. The court said sanctions on goods "required for humanitarian needs... may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." US sanctions also had the "potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran anthe the lives of its users." slapped a first round of sanctions on Iran in August after pulling out in May of the deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions, to the dismay of his European allies. A second round of punitive measures is due in November. The ICJ rules on disputes between member states. Its decisions are binding and cannot be appealed, but it has no mechanism to enforce them. Ahead of the decision, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that the sanctions were a form of "psychological warfare" aimed at regime change. "The economic warfare that the United States and some of its regional clients are conducting against Iran is psychological warfare more than real economic warfare," Zarif told BBC radio. During four days of hearings in late August, Iran's lawyers accused Washington of "strangling" its economy. Washington however forcefully told the court that it has no jurisdiction to rule on this case as it concerns a matter of national security. Wednesday's ruling is in fact a decision on so-called provisional measures ahead of a final decision on the matter, which may take several more years, experts said. Trump's America First policy largely rejects overarching organisations. He recently heavily criticised the separate International Criminal Court in The Hague over a probe into alleged US abuses in Afghanistan. The 2015 nuclear deal saw Iran agree to limit its nuclear programme and let in international inspectors in return for an end to years of sanctions by the West. But Trump argues that funds from the lifting of sanctions under the pact have been used to support terrorism and build nuclear-capable missiles. European allies have pledged to keep the deal alive, with plans for a mechanism to let firms skirt the US sanctions as they do business with Iran. Despite that, France alleged on Tuesday that the Iranian intelligence ministry was behind a foiled plot to bomb an exiled opposition group near Paris. US-Iran relations have plunged to a new low since Trump's election in 2016, even as the US president reaches out to North Korean leader Kim Jong over his nuclear programme. Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani faced off at the in September, with Rouhani denouncing leaders with "xenophobic tendencies resembling a Nazi disposition". Despite their 1955 Treaty of Amity and Economic Relations, Iran and the United States have not had diplomatic ties since 1980. The case is the second brought by Tehran against Washington since 2016. That year it brought a suit at the ICJ against the freezing of around $2 billion of Iranian assets abroad which US courts say should go to American victims of terror attacks. Hearings in that case are due to start next week. Over 200,000 bags of Somali charcoal arrived in the Iraqi port of Umm Qasr, a Somali official at the United Nations told the VOA on Monday. According to the U.S. radio, Somalia regretted how over two hundred thousand bags of charcoal had left the country. Somalia is losing trees at an alarming rate to an illicit charcoal trade that partly bankrolls its Islamist insurgency. Despite conservationists warning about the negative impact of charcoal, records indicate that some two million trees are felled every year in the trade worth $120 million (100 million), UN estimates show. Of those $120 million, at least 10 million are siphoned off by al-Shabab, the Islamist militant group fighting the government, reports say. United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman are named as the key buyers. Representatives from the UN and the Somali government came together in Mogadishu earlier this year to consider the main aspects of the problem the security situation and the impact of the trade on the lives of people and the environment. At the UN-backed summit in Mogadishu, Somalia said it wants to cooperate with Africa and the Middle East to stop the export of charcoal. Note that more than half of the worlds felled wood is turned into firewood or charcoal, according to the UN. Three quarters of the charcoal production takes place in Africa and about 98 percent of the charcoal stays on the continent. Assam Inspector General (Law and Order) Deepak Kumar on Wednesday said seven Myanmar nationals arrested in 2017 are being handed over to Myanmar authorities today. "7 Myanmar nationals who were arrested in 2017 are being deported today. Our police team is going to drop them off at Moreh border where they'll be handed over to Myanmar authorities," he told ANI. This comes shortly after a plea was filed in the Supreme Court seeking a restraint on the Centre from deporting seven Rohingya refugees lodged in the Silchar detention Centre in Assam. On Tuesday, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres opined that India needs to support Bangladesh much more and put pressure on Myanmar to ease the Rohingya crisis. The UNSG, while delivering a public lecture on Global Solutions, Global Challenges in the capital, while responding to a question on Rohingya refugees, said: "I have not seen any community as discriminated as the Rohingya. Deep-rooted racism in Buddhist Myanmar society. The way Rohingya is treated by extremism and armed forces was brutal and it is not acceptable. India needs to support Bangladesh much more and put pressure on Myanmar to ease the worst humanitarian crisis I have ever seen." More than 650,000 Rohingya Muslims fled Rakhine in August last year after Myanmar's army launched a massive crackdown in its northern state, retaliating the attacks by insurgents, Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army on the country's police posts and a military base. A large number of Rohingya refugees, since then, have taken shelter in India and Bangladesh, and are staying in refugee camps, often raising security concerns. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Guwahati Inspector General (Law and Order) Deepak Kumar on Wednesday said seven Myanmar nationals arrested in 2017 are being handed over to Myanmar authorities today. "7 Myanmar nationals who were arrested in 2017 are being deported today. Our police team is going to drop them off at Moreh border where they'll be handed over to Myanmar authorities," he told ANI. This comes shortly after a plea was filed in the Supreme Court seeking a restraint on the Centre from deporting seven Rohingya refugees lodged in the Silchar detention Centre in Assam. On Tuesday, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres opined that India needs to support Bangladesh much more and put pressure on Myanmar to ease the Rohingya crisis. The UNSG, while delivering a public lecture on Global Solutions, Global Challenges in the capital, while responding to a question on Rohingya refugees, said: "I have not seen any community as discriminated as the Rohingya. Deep-rooted racism in Buddhist Myanmar society. The way Rohingya is treated by extremism and armed forces was brutal and it is not acceptable. India needs to support Bangladesh much more and put pressure on Myanmar to ease the worst humanitarian crisis I have ever seen." More than 650,000 Rohingya Muslims fled Rakhine in August last year after Myanmar's army launched a massive crackdown in its northern state, retaliating the attacks by insurgents, Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army on the country's police posts and a military base. A large number of Rohingya refugees, since then, have taken shelter in India and Bangladesh, and are staying in refugee camps, often raising security concerns. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Maharashtra government on Wednesday moved the Supreme Court against the release of social activist Gautam Navlakha, who was under house arrest for his alleged involvement in the Bhima-Koregaon violence case. The state government will mention the issue before the newly sworn-in Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi, seeking an immediate stay on Delhi High Court's order and directions to restore Navlakha's house arrest. On October 1 the Delhi High had freed the activist, which, earlier had been extended by the Apex Court to four weeks. The High Court bench, while delivering the judgement, said that the detention was untenable in law. Navlakha, along with four activists, was detained on August 28 for his alleged involvement in the violence that erupted in Pune in January this year during an event organised to mark 200 years of the Bhima Koregaon battle. The clashes between the Dalit and Maratha groups left one person dead and several others injured, including 10 policemen. The Maharashtra government, in an affidavit to the Supreme Court, had alleged that the activists were "members of banned terrorist organisation Communist Party of India (Maoist). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Balochistan National Congress (BNC), a Washington D.C. based Baloch body, has strongly condemned Pakistan's Foreign Minister Makhdoom Mehmood Shah Qureshi over his "hypocritical" remarks at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) Session. The BNC said, Qureshi while speaking at the UNGA's 73rd Session in New York had called the Indian atrocities against the Kashmiri people unjust and unacceptable, but he fell short to mention Pakistan's illegal and unjust occupation of Balochistan and the Pakistan army's atrocities against the innocent and defenseless Baloch people in the occupied Balochistan. "On one side Qureshi is shedding crocodile tears for the Kashmiri people, but at the same time, he has closed his eyes over Pakistan's illegal, immoral and unjust occupation of Balochistan and Pakistan army's atrocities against the innocent and defenseless Baloch citizens in the occupied Balochistan. What a hypocrite, two-faced and double standard person he is," said Dr. Baloch, the president of BNC. "Under what international laws Pakistan continues to occupy Balochistan and exploits its natural resources against the will and mandate of Baloch people?" he asked. The BNC president further said that "it is time for Pakistan to end the illegal, immoral and unjust occupation of Balochistan and leave Balochistan peacefully without any further bloodshed and violence." "Pakistan is in violation of international laws for illegally occupying Balochistan against the will and mandate of Baloch people and Pakistan has no right to stay in Balochistan but needs to peacefully withdraw its forces from the occupied Balochistan and Balochistan's sovereign status as an independent and free country must be restored according to the international laws," said Dr. Baloch. He also asked the community and leaders to support the struggle of Baloch people in their fight for freedom and justice in the occupied Balochistan against the "illegal occupation of their motherland and exploitation of their natural resources by Pakistan, Iran and China". He asked the Baloch militants to shun the path of militancy and violence and use only peaceful means of struggle to secure Balochistan for the Baloch people. The BNC president said, "BNC only believe in peaceful means of struggle and is against the violence, terrorism and extremism in its all forms and shapes". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa on Wednesday praised the Democratic Alliance (NDA) government for their "bold step" of buying 36 off-the-shelf Rafale fighter jets from France. Interacting with media, the Air Force chief said, "The Government took a bold step and bought 36 Rafale aircraft. A high performance, high-tech aircraft has been given to the air force to offset the capability of the adversary." When asked whether the Indian Air Force (IAF) was informed before the procurement of the 36 fighter jets worth Rs 58,000 crore, Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa revealed that the air force was consulted at an appropriate level. He averred that the government was given some options by the IAF and it was the prerogative of the government to choose among those. He also added that Rafale would be a game changer for the Indian defence system. The Air Chief further underlined that there were differences between the Dassault Aviation and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). "We had reached an impasse. We had 3 options, first was either to wait for something to happen or withdraw the request for proposal (RFP) or do an emergency purchase. And we did an emergency purchase." "There has been a delay in the delivery schedule in contracts already executed to HAL. There is a three-year delay in delivery of Sukhoi-30, six years delay in Jaguar, five years delay in LCA, and two years delay in delivery of Mirage 2000 upgrade," he added. Further commenting on the issue, the Air Chief said that both-the Rafale jets and the S-400 air defence systems, a deal for which is likely to be signed with Moscow during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India, are like a "booster dose" for the air defence system. Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa also informed that "as and when the government approves the S-400 air defence missile system, delivery will be in 24 months." The deal for 36 ready-to-fly Rafale jets was signed in September 2016 between former defence minister Manohar Parrikar and his the then French counterpart Jean Yves Le Drian following intense negotiations. In January 2016 following the bilateral meeting between former French President Francois Hollande and Prime Minister Modi, the two sides had announced the signing of Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA). The much-talked-about Rafale deal was under negotiation during the UPA government's time too. However, the negotiations did not conclude. The Rafale controversy has heated up in past recent weeks, with the opposition targeting the BJP-led central government over irregularities in pricing in the deal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Telangana caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Wednesday said that the Congress should be ashamed of entering into an alliance with Telugu Desam Party (TDP) along with other regional parties, ahead of the assembly elections. This comes at a time when the alliance between the Congress, TDP and other regional parties is on the cards. However, official confirmation is awaited. "Congress party had filed 196 cases on Kaleshwaram project which is useful for the public. Congress party should be ashamed of themselves for entering an alliance with the TDP, which is not a good sign for the State," KCR said while launching the second Praja Ashirwada Sabha at Giriraj College Grounds here. The caretaker Chief Minister said that within two months, every house in the state will receive the Mission Bhagiratha water. He also highlighted an increase in the pension, adding that the amount will be declared in the election manifesto. He further said that the second phase of Rythu Bandhu checks will be distributed in November for the farmers, adding that Telangana is the only state to provide 24 hour supply of electricity in India. Attacking the Bharatiya Janata Party, he said, "The BJP says that they will pay the house rent for the people who stay in a rented house. The BJP is making promises that cannot happen in reality." As part of his pre-poll campaign, Rao will address close to 100 meetings in various parts of the state. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Wednesday transferred an alleged rape case on self-styled godman Daati Maharaj to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Previously, the case was being held by the Delhi Police Crime Branch. On October 1, the police had filed a charge sheet in the case before the Saket Court mentioning the statement of the woman's sister, who had claimed that the victim was sleeping in her room when the alleged crime took place. Daati Maharaj, who is accused of raping a disciple inside Shani Dham two years ago, was booked under Sections 376, 377, 354 and 34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The victim had stated that she was allegedly raped at Gurukul Ashwasan in Rajasthan's Bal Gram, adding that she did not file a complaint earlier as she felt intimidated by the self-styled godman. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur said, "Lions must be protected. You (government) must find out the reasons and do something to stop it." In last one month, over 21 lions have died in the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and Park, due to various reasons. Hearing a plea relating to preservation of green forests across the country, the bench took into note the media reports, which highlighted the death of lions in Gir Forest in the Amreli district of Gujarat. "This is extremely serious. So many lions have died," the bench said while asking the Centre to file a response on the issue. Additional Solicitor General ANS Nadkarni, appearing for the Centre, sought time to file a reply. The Gujarat government also assured the court that necessary action will be taken on the death of lions in Gir forest. The court granted one week time to the governments. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hollywood star Ewan McGregor's divorce settlement is turning uglier as he feels he is paying too much for child support. According to Page Six, McGregor's claims come on the basis of court documents, however, his wife feels he is not shelling out enough. In the raging divorce settlement battle McGregor is seeking joint custody of their three youngest children, while on the other hand, his wife Eve Mavrakis only wants visiting rights for him. Last year in October, the couple of 22 years called it quits. The couple got married in 1995 and has four kids together- Clara (22), Jamyan (16), Esther (16) and Anouk (7). Their divorce came at a time after he was caught sharing an intimate moment with his 'Fargo' co-star Mary Elizabeth Winstead at a West London cafe. After the split, Mavrakis termed the sequence of events as "disappointing and upsetting". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria reiterated Monday on Independence Day his administrations commitment to completely diversify the economy and strengthen other sectors to boost the GDP of Africas most populous nation. The Nigerian economy slipped into recession in 2016, a development triggered by dwindling government revenue, following the fall in oil prices in the international market and unrest in the oil-rich Niger Delta region. It emerged from recession in the second quarter of 2017 after oil prices improved and relative peace was restored in the Niger Delta. We are diversifying away from reliance on oil to increased manufacturing capacity, solid mineral development, and agriculture, Muhammadu Buhari stated during his Independence Day speech. He pledged free and fair elections in 2019, praising the countrys security forces for enhancing safety and calling for more compassionate exchanges on social media. Many people in the country have taken to social media to celebrate Nigeria in their own very unique styles. Photos of people all dressed in the significant green and white colors have flooded the Nigerian social media platforms with beautiful captions. As a reminder, Nigeria was a colony of Great Britain until it became an independent nation on 1 October 1960. At present Nigeria is a fast-growing nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the 'United Nations Programme (UNEP) Champions of the Earth' award from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at an award ceremony here on Wednesday. "It is an honour for Indians", Prime Minister Modi said while mentioning that the award recognises a rich culture that has always seen God in nature. He said that the award recognises the Adivasis of India who "love their jungles more than their lives", the fisherman of India who only take as much is required for sustenance, the farmers whose lives depend on the changing seasons and the women who are mindful about "reuse" and "recycle" and have lived by it every single day. "Climate and calamity are directly related to culture; if climate is not the focus of culture, calamity cannot be prevented," Prime Minister Modi said while accepting the award. He further said, "the world is recognising India's dedication towards nature today, but this has been a part of our lifestyle since time immemorial." "When I say 'Sabka Saath,' I also include nature in it," the Prime Minister added in his acceptance speech while highlighting the need for climate justice. "India is counted amongst the fastest developing nations. Hence, infrastructure is being made keeping in mind inclusive growth and sustainable development," he said at the event. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the steps which have been taken to make India environment-friendly. "India's highway and expressway are being made eco-friendly, while a 'green corridor' is in the pipeline. Urban transportation like metros are being powered by solar energy, while efforts are being made to reduce the railway's dependence on fossil fuels." He also highlighted, "Right from households to offices, from nooks to highways and ports to airports, there is a campaign to conserve water and electricity". He further said, "Technology is being promoted at every step, right from LED bulbs to rain-water harvesting". Prime Minister Modi ended his speech by proclaiming that the biggest achievement so far has been the attitudinal and behavioural change amongst the people. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, while presenting the award to the leader, said: "in PM Narendra Modi, we have a leader who realises the issue of climate change and understands the benefits of climate action". Guterres added, "He knows the problems and also works to solve them." French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have been jointly awarded the 'UNEP Champions of the Earth' award this year. Launched in 2005, the award recognises "outstanding" figures who have made a "transformative impact" on the (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday asserted that honouring Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the United Nations 'Champions of the Earth' award is a fitting recognition of his leadership towards making the planet a cleaner place. On September 26, Prime Minister Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron were recognised in the Policy Leadership category of the world body's highest environmental honour, Champions of the Earth. Addressing in the 'Champions of the Earth' event at Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra here, Swaraj said: "This is a huge and proud moment for India. Prime Minister Modi got this award for his leadership and his tireless contributions in building a clean Prime Minister Modi getting the UN Champions of the Earth award is a fitting recognition of his leadership towards making our world a cleaner place." Hailing the Prime Minister for his vision of a clean environment, the External Affairs Minister recalled that when countries tried to back out from the Paris Agreement, Prime Minister Modi was firm that the pact has to stay to safeguard 5,000 years of Indian tradition and the world must come together. "As Prime Minister, Modi Ji has taken numerous steps for the protection of the He and French President Emmanuel Macron had founded the International Solar Alliance and took the organisation to great heights. Our Prime Minister has always believed that we can conserve our and move on the path of development," Swaraj stressed. She underlined that Prime Minister Modi is committed to fulfilling various targets before deadlines for ensuring a clean and better environment. Speaking on the significance of Earth in India, Swaraj said: "Earth is not just a planet, she is referred to as Mother Earth. In West, when work on constructing a building begins, we refer it as groundbreaking ceremony. But, in India, we refer it as 'Bhumi Pujan'." Heaping praises on Prime Minister Modi's active outreach in encouraging the use of renewable energy in the country, Swaraj went on to say that India is well on course to achieve 175 GW of clean energy capacity in the next few years. Stressing that purchasing solar energy was now affordable to the masses, she further said: "Earlier, when people used to say that solar energy is expensive and was reluctant to use such forms of energy, today, solar energy prices have come down from Rs. 17.19 to Rs. 2.44, which is the minimum cost." Prime Minister Modi was selected in the leadership category for his pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and for his unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022, a UN statement had said. Awarded annually, the 'Champions of the Earth' prize is given to outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions "have had a positive impact on the environment". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The United Nations' International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Wednesday directed the United States to lift the sanctions imposed on humanitarian goods and civil aviation against Iran. "On humanitarian grounds, the US must remove by means of its choosing any impediment to the free exportation to Iran of goods involving humanitarian concerns," Al Jazeera reported. Iran's foreign ministry welcomed the interim order while stating, "The decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the US sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel." While the ICJ's rulings are binding, they do not have the authority to enforce them. Earlier, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani had lashed out at the sanctions imposed by the Donald Trump-led US administration at the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) held this year. Rouhani further said that the sanctions amounted to "economic terrorism" and "economic war". Meanwhile, Michael Pompeo, the US Secretary of State, had called for the re-imposition of sanctions on Iran at a breakfast meeting with his P-5 counterparts in New York on the sidelines of the UNGA. In 2015, six countries-Iran, US, Britain, Germany, Russia, France, and China-signed the Iran Nuclear deal, for lifting sanctions on Tehran in exchange for the country's nuclear programme. However, Trump-led USA withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, also known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in May this year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) American actor Johnny Depp has opened up about his split with wife Amber Heard, stating that he will never stop fighting for the alleged abuse, his loss of money and the drama that ensued in the year after his divorce. In a recent interview with GQ, the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' star detailed his side of the story as he mentioned his struggles with Heard and his former business managers, reported E!Onlne. He said, " She was at a party the next day. Her eye wasn't closed. She had her hair over her eye, but you could see the eye wasn't shut. Twenty-five feet away from her, how am I going to hit her? Which, by the way, is the last thing I would have done. I might look stupid, but I am not." He also claimed that even police couldn't find a sign of abuse on her body, even though the leaked video of the alleged counter suggested otherwise to some. He said, "I mean, they spoke to the police, but the police saw nothing and they offered her an emergency medical technician. She said no. Police saw nothing on her, no marks, and then they offered her an EMT to have a look at her and she says no and I don't know if it was the next day or a couple of days later, but then there was a bruise. There was a red mark and then there was a brown bruise." During the interview, the 55-year-old agreed that he has been physical towards the paparazzi, but to say he would hurt someone he loves "couldn't even sound like me." The actor also mentioned how difficult it would have been for his 14-year-old son, John Christopher Depp III, and daughter Lily-Rose Depp, to go to school and hear stuff about their parents. He trailed off in the interview, saying that she was "something" to him since he did "marry her somehow. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday informed that the state government would not file a review petition against Supreme Court's verdict on Sabarimala temple. The Chief Minister further said that all the required facilities and protection would be ensured to the women devotees visiting the temple. "Kerala government will not file a review petition on Sabarimala verdict. We will ensure facilities and protection to women devotees visiting Sabarimala," Vijayan assured. "Women police personnel from Kerala and neighbouring states will be deputed to ensure law and order. Women who want to go to Sabarimala cannot be stopped," he added. On September 28, the five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court removed all restrictions imposed on Sabarimala temple with regard to the entry of women between the age group of 10 to 50. Pronouncing the verdict, former Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dipak Misra had said that the ban in place violated Constitutional principles and that women's rights cannot be subverted as they are in no way less than men. The apex court had also said that no physiological and biological factor could be given legitimacy if it doesn't pass the test of conditionality. On the one hand, women are worshipped as Goddesses, but there are restrictions on the other hand, former CJI Misra had said while reading the judgement. "Relationship with God can't be defined by biological or physiological factors," he had added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Days after Nana Patekar was accused of harassment by Tanushree Dutta, Maharashtra Minister of State (Home) Deepak Kesarkar has voiced his support for Patekar saying that someone of his stature cannot be accused in this manner. In a recent media interaction, the minister said, "Unless there is a complaint you can't accuse a person of his status because he isn't only an actor, but also a very well known social worker." According to various media reports, Dutta was provided police protection owing to the ongoing controversy. However, Kesarkar stated that the former beauty queen was not given protection against Nana Patekar. "Protection has been given against certain incidents that had happened and not against Nana Patekar," he stated. The incident in question is the one wherein Dutta's car was attacked when she was exiting the sets of film 'Horn Ok Pleasss' post alleged misbehavior by the Patekar. The Minister hinted that the attackers were not connected to Nana Patekar. "It is now known to everybody that they (attackers) were not connected to anyone, it is her personal fight with somebody. Those people have attacked and they have admitted that they have attacked so protection was given," he explained. Dutta recently alleged that Patekar misbehaved with her on the sets of the film 'Horn Ok Pleasss'. She had accused him of harassing her while shooting for a special dance number in the movie, and also claimed that dance choreographer Ganesh Acharya teamed up against her. The 'Aashiq Banaya Aapne' actor further said that she and her family were attacked after she declined to perform the intimate step. Many B-town celebrities have previously shown their support for Dutta including Priyanka Chopra, Parineeti Chopra, Farhan Akhtar, Swara Bhaskar, Shilpa Shetty, Kalki Koechlin, and Sonam Kapoor Ahuja. The Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Maneka Gandhi also stood in support of the actor. Meanwhile, Patekar's lawyer reportedly sent a legal notice to Dutta, demanding a written apology from her for maligning his image. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) 'Manchester by the Sea' star Michelle Williams has been roped in to play the role of the late astronaut Christa McAuliffe in the upcoming movie 'The Challenger'. The film, centered on the 1986 Space Shuttle disaster, will be helmed by 'Land of Mine director' Martin Zandvliet, reports Deadline. It is being produced by John and Art Linson and Argent Pictures' Ben Renzo. McAuliffe was an American teacher who was selected to join NASA's Teacher in Space Project. She was one of the seven crew members killed in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster. The tragedy took place when the spacecraft broke apart 73 seconds into its flight on January 28, 1986. "We are more than humbled and extremely grateful for the opportunity to help tell the story of Christa McAuliffe and the Challenger mission," Renzo said. He further said that her legacy deserves the strength, courage, experience and humanity that Michelle Williams brings to the role. Renzo added, "The entire Argent team is honoured and eager to responsibly capture and share the events and personal journeys of those surrounding this important historical moment with audiences around the world to help remember and further appreciate the sacrifices Christa and rest of the Challenger crew made to further our journey into space." Williams is currently gearing up for the release of 'Venom', which also stars Tom Hardy and Riz Ahmed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday said the Congress Party does not need an alliance in the state and can win the upcoming Lok Sabha polls alone. Speaking to ANI, Amarinder said he has conveyed to the party top brass that Congress is capable of fighting alone in the state and can win all the 13 seats easily. Talking to media persons after a meeting with senior AICC leaders, the Chief Minister said they had discussed party matters, particularly related to the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. On the issue of alliance in Punjab, Captain Amarinder said both he and the Punjab Congress president had told the AICC leaders that they would go on their own and win all the 13 Lok Sabha seats in the state. As far as a alliance is concerned, it was up to the party high command to decide, he added, making it clear that the Congress in Punjab did not need any alliance. The Chief Minister told media persons that he had informally taken the views of his cabinet colleagues after the cabinet meeting earlier today, who unanimously said that no tie-ups were needed and the party would win the Lok Sabha polls in Punjab hands down. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Shortly after the Kerala government announced that it won't file a review petition challenging the Sabarimala Temple verdict, the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) President A Padmakumar said that the Board, too, will not challenge the order. Last week, a five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court had said that a woman has as much right to pray as their male counterpart, adding that the relationship with the Almighty should not be defined by any biological factors. The order, which permitted women of any age to enter the Sabarimala temple, was questioned by the temple board, which had been relentlessly defending the age-old tradition of barring women between 10 and 50 from entering the temple. The Sabarimala Temple located in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district is dedicated to the Hindu deity Ayyappan. The temple management considers the deity to be eternal celibate which made it impossible for women to enter the temple for decades. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Less than two months after he sketched a roadmap to address youths unemployment and remedy the shortcomings of the educational system and training programs that leave graduates on the dole while businesses are having difficulty finding the skilled resources they need, King Mohammed VI chaired on Monday a working session dedicated to discussing the overhaul of vocational training and education to enable young trainees and graduates find jobs easily and contribute to the countrys socioeconomic development. During the working session, the King was briefed about the proposals and measures to be taken by the concerned departments to speed up implementing the royal roadmap. The roadmap calls for restructuring vocational training, creating a new generation of training centers for young people, vocational and career guidance for students, foreign languages learning, and the promotion of youth entrepreneurship, among others. During the meeting, the Monarch gave his instructions for the development of new trainings in promising sectors and businesses, while upgrading training in the traditional trades, which remain the main providers of jobs for young people such as the sectors of industry, services, construction, agriculture, fisheries, water, energy and handicraft. He insisted on the need to diversify vocational training offer, by adopting new standards of quality, notably in the hotel and tourism sector, a strategic sector in Moroccan economy, as well as in paramedical professions, including the training of technicians in medical equipment maintenance and repair, where employment prospects are promising. The sovereign underlined also the necessity to develop short-term training programs for periods not exceeding four months, integrate foreign languages learning, and technical modules for people with experience in the informal sector, with a view to give them the opportunity to access the formal sector and enhance their know-how and abilities. At the end of the meeting, the Monarch ordered the ad-hoc committee, which is chaired by the head of Government, to elaborate and submit, within three weeks, detailed projects and accurate measures that can be applicable immediately to upgrade vocational training. The Monarch had sketched out the roadmap to upgrade the educational system and vocational training, which he deems as strategic levers for youth employment and professional integration in a speech on the occasion of the Revolution of the King and the People last August 20. We cannot let our education system continue to produce unemployed people, especially in certain branches of study, where graduates as everyone knows find it extremely hard to access the job market, the King had then said, making it clear that enabling young people, the countrys true wealth, to engage in social and professional life is not a favor. The Monarch had called on the government and other stakeholders to take a series of measures as soon as possible to address the chronic problem of ensuring that skills match labor market needs and also to reduce joblessness. Further attention therefore needs to be given to vocational training at all levels, and to creating a new generation of centers for the vocational training of young people, keeping in mind current needs as well as the particularities and expectations of each region, the King had said. The Sovereign had also underlined the importance of carrying out a thorough review of vocational training programs to align them with the needs of businesses and the public sector, and to make sure they are adapted to changes in industry and trades in general, thereby increasing the chances of graduates to access professional life. With the change of guard, newly sworn-in Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi said that he is not going to hear any mentioning from today unless it would be a case of life and death or any other important matter. "We are not going to hear any mentioning from today. We will set a parameter for cases," CJI Gogoi said on the first day after sitting in his chair in Court number 1 with two other judges -- Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice KM Joseph. During the tenure of former CJI Dipak Misra, he used to hear mentioning of cases approximately for half an hour. However, when a lawyer asked him for urgent mentioning of a case, CJI Gogoi said that he is not going to hear the same from today onwards. The CJI also made it clear that unless someone is going to be hanged today or evicted out of his house, he would not hear any mentioning for urgent hearing. Justice Gogoi also said that Public Interest Litigation (PILs) on every ill is not maintainable in the apex court. Supreme Court lawyer Aishwarya Bhati told ANI that with the change of guard today, the system has partially changed. "I hope it is done for the betterment of the judiciary. If the Supreme Court is not hearing any mentioning, then nobody should be worried about it. But judiciary as an institution should provide justice to the litigants as and when required," Bhati said. Former CJI SH Kapadia had also refused to hear mentioning. Meanwhile, a new roster of business in the Supreme Court has been issued on the orders of CJI Gogoi who has kept PILs with himself. Some PILs will also be listed before Justice Madan B Lokur on the directions of CJI Gogoi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Kerala High Court on Wednesday rejected the bail plea of former Jalandhar Bishop Franco Mulakkal, who is accused of raping a nun as many as 13 times. The senior Catholic priest is facing allegations of raping the nun repeatedly between 2014 and 2016 and was arrested in Tripunithura on September 21 after three days of questioning. The clergyman has denied the charges of sexual misconduct. On September 22, Mulakkal was sent to police custody, after being produced before the Pala Judicial Magistrate Court in Kerala's Kottayam. Later on September 24, he was sent to judicial custody till October 6 by the same court. The sister of alleged victim filed a report with state police and claimed that she and her family are receiving life threats and thus require protection for life and property. Mulakkal, who was in-charge of the Jalandhar diocese, was temporarily relieved of his pastoral duties by Pope Francis, after he expressing his desire to 'temporarily step aside' from the responsibilities of the diocese, allowing him time to fight his case. A delegation of 15 nuns from Jalandhar's Missionaries of Jesus had met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in Delhi over the Bishop's arrest. After the meeting, Sister Amala of the Missionaries of Jesus had claimed that Mulakkal was falsely framed in the case and the investigation was biased. On the other hand, a number of priests and nuns have been protesting against the Bishop in Kerala. Soon after the case surfaced, activists had staged a protest outside the Kerala Secretariat in Trivandrum, demanding his arrest. The accused had filed an anticipatory bail in the Kerala High Court last month, which was later deferred. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Members and activists of the Shree Jagannath Sena on Wednesday staged protests demanding the commission of the newly-implemented "Queue System" at the iconic Jagannath Temple in Puri. The protests turned violent when members of the outfit, servitor, and devotees dismantled barricades and jumped queues to enter the 12th-century shrine. The queue system, which was introduced on Monday by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, was part of the reforms suggested by the Supreme Court. Under the system, devotees would be allowed to enter the 12th-century temple in a queue through the 'Singhadwara' (main gate). Exit would be allowed through 'Uttaradwara' (north gate). There will also be separate queues for men and women. . (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Maoists have claimed that Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's government is cheating tribals in the state. The Maoists, who held a meeting here on the Andhra-Odisha Border (AOB) on Tuesday, said the Gurupriya Bridge, which Patnaik claimed will bring development to the region, has caused large-scale losses to tribals. "The Odisha government has constructed the bridge to loot the minerals in the region. To generate surplus electricity from the Balimela reservoir, the Odisha government has been storing more water in the dam. As a result, huge tracks of land under seven panchayats in the area have been inundated and thousands of farmers have suffered crop losses," the Maoists said. According to reports, more than 2,000 people attended the meeting which was held on the border abutting Sileru area in Vizag. Addressing the tribals, the Maoists also said that if the Odisha government fails to decrease the water level in the Balimela reservoir, they will support the people's agitation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister received the 'Champions of the Earth' award, the world body's highest environmental honour, from UN Secretary-General here on Wednesday. On September 26, Prime Minister Modi and French were recognised in the Policy Leadership category of the on the sidelines of the 73rd UN General Assembly in New York. Dedicating his award to all Indians, Prime Minister Modi said that the award recognises a rich culture that has always seen God in nature. He said that the award recognises the Adivasis of who "love their jungles more than their lives", the fisherman of who only takes as much is required for sustenance, the farmers whose lives depend on the changing seasons and the women who are mindful about "reuse" and "recycle" and have lived by it every single day. "Climate and calamity are directly related to culture, if climate is not the focus of culture, calamity cannot be prevented," the Prime Minister said in his acceptance speech. He further said, "The world is recognising India's dedication towards nature today, but this has been a part of our lifestyle since time immemorial. When I say 'Sabka Saath', I also include nature in it." In his speech, Guterres said: "A green economy is a good economy. Technology is on the side of those who believe in a green economy. Those who have a green economy like will have a dominant role in the global economy in the decades to come." Hauling up leaders who did not take aggressive steps to address climate change when the Agreement was signed in 2015, Guterres remarked that "those who believed in a grey economy have a grey future". Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's active efforts, Guterres elucidated: "We are recognising a statesman who embodies true leadership. In Prime Minister Modi, we have a leader who realises the issue of climate change and understands the benefits of climate action. He knows the problems and also works to solve them." Executive Director of the Programme (UNEP) Erik Solheim too lauded Prime Minister Modi's visionary leadership for making efforts to realise a clean and green India. He said: "Climate change poses an existential threat to the planet. Many leaders recognise this threat, but India and Prime Minister Modi are acting on it with enormous energy. We need more of this leadership." Solheim termed Prime Minister Modi's pledge to eliminate single-use by 2022 is a "brave effort". He added that the UN is in collaboration with the government to look for ways in transforming agricultural waste in and into biofuel. Furthermore, External Affairs Minister underscored that honouring Prime Minister Modi with the 'Champions of the Earth' award is a fitting recognition of his leadership towards making the planet a cleaner place. Hailing the Prime Minister for his vision of a clean environment, Swaraj recalled that when countries tried to back out from the Agreement, Prime Minister Modi was firm that the pact has to stay to safeguard 5,000 years of Indian tradition and the world must come together. Launched in 2005, the award recognises "outstanding" figures who have made a "transformative impact" on the (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday held a telephonic conversation with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Muhammad bin Salman and deliberated on a number of key bilateral issues. The Secretary of State and the Crown Prince discussed Yemen, which is currently embroiled in a civil war, and countering "the Iranian regime's malign activities in the region," a statement from the US Department of State confirmed. Pompeo also discussed with the Crown Prince avenues to expand US-Saudi collaborations, the statement added. Yemen's capital Sanaa is currently held by the rebel group - the Houthi movement, who killed then-President Ali Abdullah Saleh in December 2017, according to media reports. Saudi Arabia is leading the Arab coalition against the Houthi movement. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday met with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and held discussions over a range of issues of bilateral interests. Pompeo and Qureshi discussed the importance of the two nations working together for mutual benefits, recognising that bilateral cooperation was a factor for stability in South Asia, a statement from the US Department of State confirmed. Pompeo highlighted their common goal for peace and security in the region and stressed on the importance of Pakistan in bringing about a negotiated settlement in Afghanistan. Pompeo also agreed that there was momentum in the Afghan peace process and that the Afghan Taliban should seize the opportunity for dialogue. The Secretary and the Foreign Minister concurred on continuing engagement on these subjects and other issues and reiterated their desire to maintain constructive dialogue to advance shared interests. The two had last met on September 05 in Islamabad. Pompeo had also met Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa during his visit last month. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) United States Secretary of State Michael Pompeo will embark on a four-nation tour to East Asia from October 6. During his three-day trip, Pompeo will be visiting Japan, North Korea, South Korea and China. He will first head to Tokyo for two days, from October 6 to October 7, and meet Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Foreign Minister Taro Kono. On October 7, Pompeo will visit Pyongyang and meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. This will be the US Secretary of State's fourth visit to the communist nation. On the same day, Pompeo will visit Seoul for two days and will meet South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha. Pompeo will then be visiting Beijing on October 8 and meet his Chinese counterparts to discuss bilateral, regional and global issues. "Throughout the Secretary's trip, he will reiterate the administration's continued focus on the final, fully verifiable, denuclearisation of the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) and longstanding commitment to our alliances and partnerships in the region," said the US State Department. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) United States Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo will be visiting Pyongyang and meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un next week as part of his upcoming trip to Asia. The State Department spokesperson, Heather Nauert announced that Pompeo will meet with Kim in Pyongyang on October 7. Nauert, however, did not divulge the talk that the two are supposed to have but indicated that the discussion on Pyongyang's nuclear capability will be one of the issues that will be discussed. "These are private diplomatic conversations, as we work toward our goal of full denuclearisation of North Korea," she asserted. Nauert also emphasised on the need for a conversation between the two countries saying, "It shows forward progress and momentum that the secretary is making his fourth trip back in less than a year." "That shows the president's commitment to agreement that he and Chairman Kim made at the Singapore summit," she said. The two are also expected to discuss the second Kim-Trump summit. Pompeo was invited to visit Pyongyang by North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho when the two met for a meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly session in New York last week. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress on Wednesday asserted that if Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati trusts Congress president Rahul Gandhi and United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi, then all problems can be sorted out between the two political parties. Soon after Mayawati's accusations of Congress attempting to wipe out the BSP, the Congress made efforts to mend the differences. Addressing a press conference here on Wednesday, Congress party's spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said, "At times, out of emotions, sweet and bitter things are said. But at last, if Mayawati Ji holds absolute trust in Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi then other creases can be ironed out. If there are creases, we will iron it out with love and respect." Speaking to ANI earlier, Mayawati said: "While Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi want a Congress-BSP alliance in the poll-bound states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh and in Lok Sabha elections, Congress party MP and former chief minister Digvijay Singh, who due to the fear of the Central Bureau of Investigation and the Enforcement Directorate unfortunately does not want an alliance between the two parties." When the Congress was categorically if the party will continue to support the BSP despite the allegations, Surjewala said, "Decision on alliances is not discussed in press conference. Wherever the Congress party feels that another party can strengthen the vision and the ideology of the Congress, talks will be held for a possible alliance. The only agenda for Congress is to save the people of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat from the Bharatiya Janata Party. If any party wants to join us in the agenda, they are most welcome. If they are not, they can walk their path, but that does not weaken the agenda to defeat the BJP." Mayawati announced her decision today to go solo in the upcoming Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh assembly polls due end of this year. Speaking to ANI exclusively, the BSP chief maintained suspense over her party's stand on alliance with the Congress and grand alliance in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. She restricted her statement to the upcoming assembly elections. She told ANI, "There will be no alliance with the Congress. The BSP will fight the upcoming assembly elections in poll-bound states Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh on its own. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Belarusian delegation participates in the International Conference Business Day of the Republic of Belarus in Czechia 03-10-2018 On October 3-5, 2018 the Belarusian delegation headed by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Co-Chair of the Belarusian-Czech Joint Commission on Economic, Industrial, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, Evgeny Shestakov, visiting Czechia. On October 3, the Deputy Minister took part in the International Conference Business Day of the Republic of Belarus, organized in the framework of the 60-th Jubilee International Engineering Fair MSV 2018 in Brno. The event was also attended by the Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of Czechia, the Co-Chair of the Belarusian-Czech Joint Commission on Economic, Industrial, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, Eduard Muricky, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Czechia, Miloslav Stasek, the Chair of the Chamber of Trade and Industry for CIS Countries, Frantisek Masopust, representatives of more than 40 Czech companies. Within the framework of the Business Day, economic potential of Belarus, prospects for the development of the Belarusian-Czech regional cooperation, in particular, with the Minsk region were presented. On the margins of the conference, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus, Evgeny Shestakov, met with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Czechia, Martin Tlapa. The sides discussed bilateral relations, implementation of current and prospects for future joint economic and investment projects. The exhibitors from the Belarusian State Concern for Oil and Chemistry, the petrochemical and metals industries, some institutes of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus demonstrate wide range of products and recent scientific achievements at the collective exposure of the Republic of Belarus Made in Belarus. Background Infromation: Representatives of Belneftekhim concern, Mogilevkhimvolokno OJSC, MOZYR REFINERY OJSC, BELWAX OJSC, Gomel Chemical Plant OJSC, Belorusssian Steel Works OJSC, institutes of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus (SSPA Scientific and Practical Materials Research Centre of NAS of Belarus, NPO Center o.a.s., Institute of Technology of Metals, A.V. Lykov Institute of Heat and Mass of National Academy of Sciences of Belarus), Exhibition Unitary Enterprise Belinterexpo will take part in the collective exposure of the Republic of Belarus in the MSV 2018 in Brno until October 5, 2018. print version Russian President will arrive in New Delhi on Thursday to attend the 19th India-Russia bilateral annual summit, scheduled to begin the following day. The signing of a deal for Russia's S-400 Triumf air defence system is the key feature of the visit. Putin will arrive at the capital at around 6:30 PM and will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence in an hour, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed. On October 05, the Russian President will hold delegation level talks with Prime Minister Modi at the Hyderabad House at around 11:30 AM. The two are slated to discuss a number of key regional and global topics, including the US sanctions on Iranian oil. Following an exchange of agreements and press statements, Putin will arrive at the ITC Maurya Hotel, where the India-Russia Business Summit is scheduled to take place at around 3:30 PM. He is also scheduled to interact with a group of talented children. Putin will then meet his Indian counterpart - President Ram Nath Kovind, at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. The Russian President will emplane for his return to Russia at around 6:00 PM in the evening. A number of crucial energy deals are slated to be signed by the two countries during the bilateral summit. India's state-owned ONGC Videsh Limited (OVL) may sign a pact with Gazprom, industry sources told Sputnik. OVL already has stakes in three operational projects in Russia. Also, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov had earlier confirmed that a contract for the supply of five regiments of Russia's S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems to India worth $5 billion will be signed during the Russian President's visit. The last India-Russia bilateral summit was held in Russia on June 1, 2017. The Russian Export Center (REC) will organise a large-scale business mission featuring Russian companies in India from October 4 to 5. The mission is timed to coincide with the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russia-India Business Summit. The business mission of Russian companies in India will take place as a part of the summit that aims at continued reinforcing bilateral relations within the business community and between both nations' regions, discussing problems of interaction between business community players and developing roadmaps for further cooperation between Russian and Indian companies. The mission will also help grow cooperation in a broad range of areas that businesses of both countries are interested in and grow partnership relations with major Indian organisations responsible for stimulating trade and attracting investments into the Indian economy. The business mission is slated to commence from October 4. The event is expected to be attended by Denis Manturov, Minister of Industry and Trade of Russia, Andrey Slepnev, General Director of REC, representatives of the All-Russia Public Organisation "Business Russia", REC, Federation of Indian Chambers of Industry and Commerce (FICCI), Business Council for Cooperation with India, representatives of the Russian Embassy and Trade Representation of Russia in the Republic of India, Confederation of Indian Industry, Indian Association of Tour Operators. After the official opening ceremony of the business mission, the panel discussion "Business in India: Opportunities and Prospects for Trade and Economic Relations" will take place that will see the participants discuss such issues like: government regulation of external economic and investment activity in India, specifics of customs procedures regulating import, monetary and financial regulation of import operations in India and special economic zones, logistics routes and itineraries between Russia and India; measures to protect intellectual property rights. In addition to the panel discussion, participants of the business mission will be welcomed at thematic and sectoral roundtables, B2B meetings of Russian companies with potential contractors and representatives of associations and government authorities of India. The "Exchange of Knowledge in Tourism between Russia and India" roundtable will discuss top priority tourist routes from India to Russia and ways to increase mutual tourist flow between the two countries, preferred destinations and criteria for selecting target regions. Also, presentations of some Russian regions will take place on: Crimea, Baikal, Volga region, and the Golden Ring. At the "Entering the Indian Market. Practical Cases and Success Stories" roundtable, representatives of "Sberbank India", "Technonicol", and "Automatica C" will share their experiences of entering the Indian market and talk about business specifics in the country. During the business mission, a pitch session will be held with Russian and Indian businesses, where the Russian side will present its companies and products. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Russian Export Center is slated to organises its first event within the program of opening of its representative office in India, coinciding with the first day of Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India and the organisation of a Russia-India Summit. Companies representing the agro-industrial complex, IT, engineering, power generation, medicine, tourism services, baby products and household appliances sectors are among the participants of the mission. In total, more than 50 companies have arrived in India to develop trade and economic relations and search for partners. "In the first half of 2018, we saw positive dynamics in the commodity circulation: the joint trade volume reached almost USD 5.5 billion, which is a 30 per cent growth as compared to 2017. The growth was specifically due to the Russian export: for the last year export grew by 43 per cent, while import grew by 6.43 per cent (according to the Federal Customs Service of Russia). I am assured that opening of a representative office of REC in India will further aid in the development of trade and economic relations between the countries and establishment of partnership relations with potential importers," said General Director of the Russian Export Center, Andrey Slepnev. The opening ceremony will be followed by a panel discussion "Business in India: Opportunities and Perspectives of the Trade and Economic Relations", where the participants will discuss a number of important business issues: state regulation of foreign trade and investment activities in India; specifics of the customs control procedures regulating import transactions; currency and financial regulation of import transactions in India and free economic zones; logistic Russia-India pathways and routes; intellectual property protection measures. Delegates of the business mission will take part in topic-related and industrial round tables, B2B meetings with potential partners and representatives of associations and state authorities of India. During the panel " Exchange of knowledge in Tourism between Russia and India", the participants will discuss priority directions of the tourist flows from India to Russia and methods to increase a mutual tourist flow between the counties, preferred tourism destinations and criteria for selection of regions to be visited. Presentations will also be made on a number of Russian regions: the Crimea, Baikal, Volga Region, and the Golden Ring. During the panel "Entering the Indian Market. Practical Cases and the Success Story", representatives of Sberbank India, Technonicol and Avtomatika-S will talk about their experience of entry into the Indian market and specifics of doing business in the country. As part of the business mission, there will be a pitch session with participation of business from Russia and India, where the Russian side will present its companies and projects. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Wednesday adjourned the contempt plea filed against Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Manoj Tiwari for allegedly breaking the seal of a locked house in an unauthorised colony here in Gokalpur area earlier this month. Furthermore, the top court directed Tiwari to appear for the next hearing after 10 days. Tiwari, while speaking to media after the adjournment of the contempt plea, urged the apex court to stop the sealing drive till the final verdict is pronounced in the case. "I don't know why the case was not heard today. I accept the order of the honourable court as I have full faith in the judicial system of India. It is my humble request to the Supreme Court to stop the sealing drive in the capital until the verdict is not pronounced in the case," he said. Tiwari further alleged that the monitoring committee appointed by the top court, along with corrupt officials, is running a "corruption racket in the capital." The BJP leader also said that he has submitted an affidavit in the court stating that the monitoring committee is not doing their work in a responsible manner. Tiwari is facing contempt proceedings for allegedly breaking the lock of a house sealed by the apex court-mandated monitoring committee. However, the BJP lawmaker said that he broke the lock of the premises located in his constituency as it was wrongly sealed by the committee. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Shashi Tharoor has urged voters in Telangana to undo their "mistake" of choosing K Chandrashekar Rao as the Chief Minister in 2014, adding that the state will go to polls in the next 54 days. The assurance from the Congress party leader comes less than a month after the country's Chief Election Commissioner, OP Rawat, in an interview with ANI, said that Assembly elections in Telangana might not be necessarily held along with Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Mizoram, which are stated to go to polls at the end of this year. "As the election in the state is coming in 54 days, the voters should remember that a vote for the TRS is a vote for the BJP; that is essentially the message that is coming across," Tharoor said, while addressing the media here on Tuesday. Tharoor added that both India and Telangana paid a " terrible price" by backing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre and the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) at the state level, respectively. "We are heading towards elections in Telangana in November and the rest of India no later than April. Mistakes are normal in a democracy, but the great strength in democracy is self-correcting. The voters, the public, can undo their mistakes the next time they come to vote," said the senior leader. The Telangana State Assembly was dissolved premature by K Chandrashekar Rao, who called for advancement of polls in the state. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb has raised concern over the syllabus being taught in Tripura schools. The Chief Minister has asserted that schools in the state only teach about former Soviet leader Joseph Stalin and communist revolutionary Vladimir Lenin, while adding that the students are being taught nothing about Indian leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Subhas Chandra Bose and others. Speaking to ANI, Deb said that the Tripura government is working to introduce NCERT syllabus in school textbooks from the next academic year - 2019 to improve the quality of in the state. "It is very tough to see Indian history in textbooks these days. All that they have are Stalin, Lenin, etc. I have no problem with that but Indian history should be there as well. Study materials would be introduced in schools that will lay importance on Indian leaders like Mahatma Gandhi. Our government is working to introduce NCERT syllabus in school textbooks from the next academic year. We should stress on teaching the contributions of Indian leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Subhas Chandra Bose and APJ Abdul Kalam. We should first know about the ancestors of India. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The United States President Donald Trump in the coming weeks will hold a meeting with technology industry executives including Google CEO Sundar Pichai, National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow said on Tuesday. "He [Pichai] committed to come back to the White House," Kudlow, who is also assistant to the President for Economic Policy, told reporters as quoted by the press pool. "We're going to have a little conference. The president will preside over it. We will have the big internet companies, the big social media companies, search companies, and some who are dissatisfied with those companies." Kudlow said he had a constructive meeting with Pichai last week and the Google CEO was very cooperative. Trump's adviser said the exact date for the summit has not been set but it will likely happen in the middle of October. The administration, he added, hopes that Twitter and Facebook executives will also participate in the meeting at the White House. . (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least thirteen members of a Muslim family have recently converted to Hinduism in Uttar Pradesh's Baghpat district. Havan and Puja were also performed as the family members adopted Hinduism and changed their names in a ceremony held on Tuesday. The ceremony was performed under the directive of Yuva Hindu Vahini-Bharat. The family revealed that they willingly took the decision to change their religion, citing lack of support from their community following the alleged murder of a family member. They further said that the police declared the murder to be a suicide and neither the police nor their community helped them in getting justice. The family, which hails from Badarka village in the district, had shifted to Navada village in search of better prospects earlier this year. However, a member of the family was found dead a few months back. "Justice was not served to us. My brother was murdered and they changed the entire story and nobody supported us. We then decided to change our religion," said Naushad, who has now changed his name to Narendra. The family also submitted an affidavit saying that they wanted to convert their religion willingly as they are not happy with the investigation in the case involving the death of their family member. Yogendra Tomar of Yuva Hindu Vahini-Bharat assured that they would help the family to get justice. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The United States Department of State hosted the first annual US-Australia Energy Security Dialogue here on Tuesday. Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Energy Resources (ENR) Frank R. Fannon and Australia's Department of and Energy Deputy Secretary Rob Heferen led the discussions. Officials from the US Departments of Energy and Interior participated in the dialogue along with an Australian delegation from the Departments of and Energy, Industry, Innovation and Science, Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, and the Embassy of Australia in Washington DC. During the discussions, the officials signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance the existing framework for bilateral cooperation and to strengthen areas of mutual interest in the energy sector, to include promoting regional energy security, encouraging open and competitive markets, facilitating bilateral energy trade and investment, and advancing clean energy technology policies to promote research, development, and deployment of innovative energy technologies. The officials also shared best practice approaches and lessons learned to address shared challenges domestically in energy and resources. The recent Energy Security Dialogue builds upon the commitment to foster an Indo-Pacific region where international trade is rooted in market-based principles, private sector-led development, and good economic governance. The Energy Security Dialogue is an outcome of the meeting of US President Donald Trump and former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull in February, when the leaders announced the US-Australia Strategic Partnership on Energy in the Indo-Pacific. The partnership aims to promote regional energy infrastructure and cooperation, open and competitive energy markets, and improved rules and standards in the Indo-Pacific. The concept was broadened to include energy security at the 2018 Australia-US ministerial consultations held in Palo Alto, California in July. Australia will host the next Energy Security Dialogue in 2019. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The United States Navy has awarded a 171 million US dollar contract for full-rate production of the AGM-88E Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM), defense contractor Northrop Grumman announced in a press release on Tuesday. "The contract will deliver advanced capability to US warfighters as well as the Italian Air Force and Royal Australian Air Force to counter the accelerating proliferation of surface-to-air threats," the release said. AARGM is a supersonic, air-launched tactical missile system that homes in on electromagnetic radiation emitted by ground-based enemy anti-aircraft systems, the release noted. The 171 million US dollar deal is the seventh full-rate production lot for the advanced weapon, the release said. The missile was developed by Northrop Grumman and an Italian partner, and the weapon is currently integrated into systems on the FA-18C/D Hornet, FA-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft, according to the release. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) ABOUT THE PAINTINGS: Each watercolor is painted on 300lb Cold Press watercolor paper. I use transparent watercolors occasionally adding ink to the wash. I paint in a series of washes to build color, creating shadows and a strong use of light. The PAINTING A DAY paintings started January 1, 2007. Variations in monitor settings plus my camera skills may not exactly duplicate the actual colors in the painting. I do my best! I plan to work in two sizes. An image of 5"x5" with a 1/2" border or an image of 4"x6" with a 1/2" border. You will need to take your new painting to a frame shop to be framed. For shipping, each miniature original watercolor will be placed in a protective sleeve with a foamcore back. Paintings that do not sell are then placed on my show stand at a price commensurate to my other work. The United States has halted the issuance of G-4 visas to same-sex partners working for international organisations, according to a U.S. Department of State press release. The change, which came into effect on Monday, will affect same-sex partnerships and not marriages, according to CNN. The news organisation further reported that same-sex partners have been given leeway till December 31 to get married or leave the country. US officials said that approximately 105 families will be affected, out of which only 55 work with international organisations. "Very few of those individuals are from countries where same-sex marriage is illegal", they added. The officials also said that they've "had dialogue since July on this change" in policy with the United Nations and foreign missions in New York. Senior Administration Officials said that foreign diplomats in the United States have the option of getting married in the country itself till the deadline. The officials further said that the policy was being changed to level the treatment for same-sex marriages and heterosexual marriages in relation to visas."The change in policy ensures consistent treatment between opposite-sex partners and same-sex partners by requiring that same-sex partners, like opposite-sex partners, must marry to qualify for derivative diplomatic visas", they added. A US official told CNN, "The change in policy reflects the State Department's goal to ensure and promote equal treatment. October 1, 2018, also marks the end of a transition period from the Department's previous same-sex domestic partner policy for US foreign service personnel. Members of the US foreign service must now be married to enjoy the rights and benefits of spouses. This is based on US law, which now recognises a constitutional right to same-sex marriage." Trying to allay fears of human rights violations, the officers said that they "will work with individuals on a case-by-case basis to help them to try to legally adjust their status to remain in the United States after the deadline." Alfonso NAM, the president of the UN LGBTQI advocacy organisation UN-GLOBE, told CNN, "The reality is that the difference between being in a heterosexual couple and being in a same-sex relationship is that heterosexual couples have an incredible number of choices of where they can get married. That is a choice that is very limited for people in same-sex relationships." The senior officials also acknowledged that not all countries recognise same-sex marriages. "The policy recognises that not all countries have the same policy as we do, that they don't all recognize same-sex marriage legal as we do, as long as those countries act in a reciprocal fashion towards us and our diplomats", they said. The G-4 visa is granted to employees of international organisations and their families and is a non-immigrant U.S. visa. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Jammu and Kashmir Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Ravinder Raina on Wednesday said that voting for Congress would imply strengthening the enemies and traitors of the nation. Recalling a remark by senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, which was supported by the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Raina alleged that Congress leaders are in nexus with Pakistani terrorists. "Ghulam Nabi Azad made baseless allegations against Army operating in Kashmir and Lashkar-e-Taiba 's Hafiz Saeed applauded him. It means Congress leaders are in nexus with Pak terrorists and anti- forces. The nation won't forgive them. Voting for Cong means strengthening enemies and traitors," the state BJP chief told ANI. Earlier in June, Azad had reportedly said in a television interview that the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir was killing more civilians than terrorists during military operations in the state. Subsequently, the LeT had issued a statement saying, "We have been of the same opinion as to the ones expressed by Azad and others. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India on 1st Oct. signed a $150 million loan to finance continued improvements to road connectivity and efficiency of the international trade corridor in northern part of West Bengal and northeastern region of India. The signatories to the tranche 2 loan agreement for the $500 million South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) Road Connectivity Investment Program were Mr. Sameer Kumar Khare, Additional Secretary (Fund Bank and ADB), Department of Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Finance, who signed on behalf of the Government of India; and ADB Country Director for India Mr. Kenichi Yokoyama, who signed for ADB. Approved in 2014, the program aims to expand about 500 kilometers (km) of roads in India's North Bengal and northeastern region that will enable efficient and safe transport within India and regionally with other SASEC member countries. The program is an important initiative in regional connectivity aimed at increasing domestic and regional trade through North Bengal-Northeastern Region international trade corridor by upgrading key roads, said Mr. Khare after signing the loan agreement. The new loan will help upgradation of key national and state highways in Manipur and construct an important international bridge for crucial last-mile connectivity between in-country trunk road network and neighboring countries, said Mr. Yokoyama. The project's second tranche will upgrade about 66 km of national highways in Manipur, construct about 1.5 km of an international bridge between India and Nepal, and provide additional financing for the construction of about 103 km of a state highway in Manipur. The project will reduce transaction costs along the targeted cross-border corridors substantially, creating economies of scale and commercial prosperity. ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 67 members48 from the region. In 2017, ADB operations totaled $32.2 billion, including $11.9 billion in cofinancing. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hindustan Oil Exploration Company executed the Revenue Sharing Contract with Government of India for Block AA-ONHP-2017/19 it won under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) Bid Round I on 01 October 2018 in the presence of Honourable Union Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Skill Development at New Delhi. As updated on 29 August 2018, this Block extends to an area of 79 sq. km. and is located adjacent to Dirok field operated by HOEC. Dirok field and its extension through this Block AA-ONHP- 2017/19, forms one Greater Dirok Area that is part of a proven petroleum system. Since HOEC understands this basin well and has adequate data, we plan to fast track the exploration phase to quickly monetise on success. Dirok gas being rich, off take by consumers has been increasing month after month, confirming growing demand for gas in the Assam Market. Taking note of this, Operating Committee of the Dirok field consisting of Oil India, Indian Oil Corporation and HOEC reviewed and recommended a Revised Plan of Development (RPoD) of AAP-ON-94/1 (Dirok field) for submission to Directorate General of Hydrocarbon (DGH) during the meeting held at Chennai on 28 September 2018. RPoD considers that the Estimated Ultimate Recovery (EUR) under 2P case would be in the order of 305 BCF against the EUR of 134.09 BCF (2P) in the Plan of Development approved by the Management Committee in 2015. The proposal recommended by the Operating Committee envisages to drill 4 new development wells and to explore a new prospect in the North of Dirok field within the existing area. Over all, the RPoD targets to increase the gas production by about 55 mmscfd from the current level of 35 mmscfd. Schedule and costs of RPoD will be firmed up post independent review by DGH and on securing the approval of Management Committee. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two police officers -- a police station incharge and a sub-inspector -- were arrested in Bihar's Gopalganj district on Wednesday for selling liquor in the dry state, police said. Gopalganj Superintendent of Police Rashid Zaman said: "I have informed the top officers of the police department about the case. Action against both officials would be taken according to the prohibition law." Baikanthpur Police Station Officer Incharge Lakshminarayan Mahto along with a sub-inspector posted there were caught red-handed by Zaman, who was alerted about the incident by the residents, for selling seized liquor from the police station. The incident has again exposed police involvement in illegal liquor business in the state. Ironically, two police officials were arrested for selling liquor a day after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar instructed the police and the concerned officials to be strict in implementing liquor ban in the state. More than 1.33 lakh cases in connection with violation of the prohibition have been recorded since the ban was imposed in Bihar by Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal-United government on April 5, 2016. --IANS ik/mag/vm (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Five militants of Haqqani militant group were killed in an Afghan Air Force-led airstrike in Afghanistan's Paktika province, the country's Defence Ministry said on Wednesday. The strike was launched in Gomal district after an intelligence tip-off confirmed the presence of the militants in a remote area in the district, bordering Pakistan, Xinhua news agency reported citing the ministry's statement. As a Taliban-linked group of militants, the Haqqani network was designated as a terrorist group by the US in 2012. The group was yet to comment on the report. --IANS shs/soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The body of a bank manager, who was abducted last week from Sheikhpura district of Bihar, was recovered from Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand on Wednesday, police said. Three abductors have been arrested in this connection, Nalanda Superintendent of Police Sudhir Kumar Porika said. Jaivardhan Kumar of the Bihar Kshetriya Grameen Bank was kidnapped from Sheikhpura on September 27 evening while returning from neighbouring Nalanda district. The abductors had reportedly demanded a ransom from the family and warned them against seeking police help. A police team of Nalanda recovered Kumar's mobile phone from a village in Nawada district, which served as the primary clue in the investigation. Last week, a 15-year-old school student, who was allegedly abducted for ransom, was found murdered in Patna. --IANS ik/nir (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Nivin Pauly is awaiting the release of "Kayamkulam Kochunni", touted as the most expensive movie made in the Malayalam film industry. He is also looking forward to soon making his debut in a Hindi language film. The Malayalam star believes that all the actors should challenge themselves by crossing boundaries and acting in languages that they are not fluent in. The Kochi-based actor made his acting debut in 2010 with "Malarvaadi Arts Club" and went on to star in Malayalam movies like "Thattathin Marayathu", "Bangalore Days" and "Premam". Though his primary focus has been Malayalam cinema, he also tried his hand at Tamil films by starring in "Richie" and "Neram", which was made in Tamil and Malayalam. He is currently dubbing for Geetu Mohandas' bilingual film "Moothon", which will be released in Hindi and Malayalam. He isn't the first Malayali actor to step out of Malayalam film industry. His seniors like Mohanlal as well as contemporaries such as Dulquer Salmaan and Fahadh Faasil have also shown their acting skills in other film industries like Tamil and Hindi. "The language part is always challenging. For a Malayali actor, it won't be that comfortable to do a film in Tamil, Telugu or Hindi. I believe we should push ourselves by crossing boundaries. I think every actor should attempt that in their career," Nivin told IANS in a telephonic interview. "There is one blessed career that God gave us and we shouldn't be sitting in one place and getting comfortable. There is no harm in trying something new." It's not like he doesn't get to do challenging projects back home. He will be seen starring in a period film for the first time. "'Kayamkulam Kochunni' was one of the most challenging films. There are lots of action sequences. I had to learn horse riding... something I had never done before. So, a lot of effort and time went into it," said the actor, who will turn 34 this month. The Rosshan Andrrews directorial is based on a highway thief, who was considered to be the Robin Hood of Kerala in the 19th century. "It just happened to be the most expensive film in Malayalam. We have recreated a period character in Kerala -- Robin Hood of Kerala. So, the director wanted to portray it on that scale. "Films from other industries are so big and people have received them wholeheartedly. People in Kerala love to watch big scale films. So, this is an attempt at that. It has never happened in the Malayalam film industry. The industry is relatively small. So, the film's budget of Rs 45 crore is quite high for Malayalam cinema. We believe that it has come out well," he said. He even gained weight for the film, which was shot in Kerala and also in Mangaluru, Udupi, Goa and Sri Lanka in nine months. "We have to gain or lose weight, learn so many things for a film like this. Since it's a big film, I have to give my 101 per cent to it," said Nivin. Adding more weight and star power to "Kayamkulam Kochunni" is Malayalam superstar Mohanlal. "That (acting with Mohanlal) was the best experience of my career. You know how Mohanlal and Mammootty are for people in Kerala. So, for a guy who doesn't have a film background, joins the film industry and gets a chance to share screen space with Mohanlal Sir is something else. "He was there with us for around 12 days for the film. Every day we got to learn something from him. Those 12 days are the most memorable days of my career." Asked what he learnt from the star, he said: "He is very professional in terms of acting, which we have to be. The timing he comes on set, how he behaves, his enthusiasm and a lot of other things." Back in 2014, there was a reference of Mohanlal in his film "Bangalore Days". And now, acting with him, was naturally a "dream come true" moment for Nivin. The film also has Bollywood names like Shreya Ghoshal and Nora Fatehi attached to it. Has he ever considered acting in a Bollywood film? "Yeah. Offers used to come. 'Moothon' will be my debut in Hindi. I am just waiting for the release of that film... then let's see," he said. Right now, he is only praying for the success of "Kayamkulam Kochunni". "We believe that people of Kerala will accept the film. It is very close to our hearts. We want people to be proud of it and hope such big films happen in the future. This is the first step towards it," he said. It will hit the screens across India on October 11, which also happens to be his birthday. "I just want this movie to do well," concluded Nivin. (Natalia Ningthoujam can be contacted at natalia.n@ians.in ) --IANS nn/vm/sac (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Centre has extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) for six months in Arunachal Pradesh's three districts and in the areas falling within the jurisdiction of the state's eight police stations bordering Assam, notifying them as "disturbed areas", a government notification said. Issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday, the notification said AFSPA has been extended in Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts of Arunachal Pradesh and the eight police stations bordering Assam up to March 31, 2019. "Now, therefore, Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts in Arunachal Pradesh and the areas falling within the jurisdiction of the following eight police stations in the districts of Arunachal Pradesh, bordering the State of Assam, are declared as 'disturbed area' under Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 up to March 31, 2019 w.e.f. October 1, 2018, unless withdrawn earlier," the notification said. The three districts -- bordering Myanmar -- have been under the AFSPA since January 2016. The government had declared these three districts and the eight police stations bordering Assam as "disturbed" in its earlier notification issued on April 1. The eight police stations include Balemu and Bhalukpong in Arunachal Pradesh's West Kameng district, Seijosa in East Kameng district, Balijan in Papumpare district, Namsai and Mahadevpur in Namsai district, Roing in Lower Dibang Valley district and Sunpura in Lohit district. According to a Home Ministry official, the decision was taken following a review of the law and order situation in the state's three districts and the eight police station. AFSPA gives powers to the Army and Central forces deployed in "disturbed areas" to kill anyone acting in contravention of law, arrest and search any premises without a warrant and provide cover to forces from prosecution and legal suits without the Central government's sanction. It is effective in the whole of Nagaland, Assam, Manipur (excluding seven Assembly constituencies of Imphal). The state governments of Assam and Manipur now have the powers to keep or revoke the Act. The Act was withdrawn from Tripura in 2015 and in past one year, fewer areas in northeast are under the Act, the official said, adding that the Act was in place in Meghalaya for a a 20-km area (along the Assam border) and not in operation in Mizoram. --IANS rak/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The alliance between Bharipa Bahujan Mahasangh and All India Majlis Ittehadul-e-Muslimeen (AIMIM), announced in Maharashtra on October 2, would prove to be the 'B-Team of the BJP', said Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Wednesday. Terming the political partnership between BBM-AIMIM as undesirable, he said as of now, it is quite difficult to predict how it could impact the political scenario during the 2019 elections. "However, if BRP President Prakash Ambedkar was really interested in defeating the Bharatiya Janata Party, then it was not expected of him to join hands with a party (AIMIM) which follows the ideals of the Muslim League," Raut said. He said there is speculation that the BBM-AIMIM alliance has been engineered by the BJP to deprive the Congress of the Dalit-Muslim votes in the next elections. Raut said that though Ambedkar is the grandson of the architect of Indian Constitution, B.R. Ambedkar, in the past several elections, the Ambedkarites don't seem to have supported him much. "And now this partnership is with a party having divergent views compared to B.R. Ambedkar's." The Sena's Rajya Sabha MP also pointed out that now the Ambedkarites are "a highly aware and awakened community" which would not easily accept the alliance. "I doubt if this alliance will be of much benefit," Raut said. Marking a new political dimension in Maharashtra, Owaisi and Ambedkar on Tuesday addressed a massive joint rally in Aurangabad to announce the alliance, saying they wanted 'freedom' from the BJP government led by Prime Minister Modi as his followers have committed atrocities on both Dalis and minorities. They also said that the plight of Dalits and Muslims remains unchanged with a majority continuing to live below the poverty line, even facing oppression of the authorities. --IANS qn/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Australia's Treasurers on Wednesday agreed to exempt women's sanitary products from General Sales Tax (GST) following years of campaigning by female groups. Treasurers from Australia's states and territories unanimously agreed to support the government's proposal to remove the current 10 per cent tax on the products, ending an 18-year campaign to get the exemption. The exact products which will be exempted from tax were not yet finalised but it was expected to cost the states 30 million Australian dollars each in tax revenue. The exemption is expected to come into effect from January. "We're really delighted that everyone's come on board to scrap what is an unfair tax," Minister for Women Kelly O'Dwyer told Sky News Australia. "Millions of women right across the nation will be very thankful for it." Widely known as the "tampon tax", the levy on sanitary products has drawn protests since the GST was introduced in 2000. The government that time refused to exempt them as a health product, saying the products did not prevent illness. The Wednesday's move was welcomed by women groups and campaigners across the country. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said scrapping the tax was "a bit of common sense", Xinhua news agency reported. "It had always been our view that we wanted to see it changed," he told Macquarie Media radio. Morrison first promised to remove the tax during his time as Treasurer, describing it as an "anomaly" that never should have existed in the first place. Josh Frydenberg, who succeeded Morrison as Treasurer, said that his colleagues from the states and territories agreeing to the plan was "good news for women across Australia" that was "long overdue". --IANS shs/soni/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ajax managed a 1-1 draw against stumbling Bayern Munich in a Group E Champions League match. For the hosts, the disappointing result comes on the heels of another home draw against Augsburg and an away loss to Hertha Berlin on Tuesday night. The contest began encouragingly for the 70,000 mainly Bayern supporters at Munich's Allianz Arena, as Mats Hummels converted an Arjen Robben cross to put the hosts ahead 1-0 in the 5th minute, reports Efe news. Bayern looked to be in control until the 17th minute, when a shot from Ajax's Nicolas Tagliafico sailed just over the cross-bar. Three minutes later, Hakim Ziyech forced home keeper Manuel Neuer to concede a corner. The equalizer came in the 22nd minute from Noussair Mazraoui, who beat Neuer after working a give-and-go with Dusan Tadic. Ajax grew increasingly confident in the face of Bayern's obvious anxiety and Ziyech tested Neuer in the 44th minute. James Rodriguez had the best chance for the hosts with a strike in the 62nd minute that forced a stop from Ajax keeper Andre Onana, yet Ajax looked the more likely to get a second goal as the match wore on. The unexpected results leaves Bayern and Ajax tied on points with 4, but the Dutch side hold the top spot in Group E by virtue of better goal differential. --IANS kk/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bihar's first solid waste processing site, which will convert organic waste into compost fertiliser, was inaugurated in Muzaffarpur district, officials said on Wednesday. Inaugurating the new facility late on Tuesday, Bihar's Urban Development and Housing Minister Suresh Kumar Sharma said it will help to ensure that the city is clean. "This is an important milestone for Muzaffarpur. It is the first city in Bihar to set-up a fully functional waste processing site and the only city in the whole of north India to have above 70 per cent waste segregation at source," said Chandra Bhushan, Deputy Director General, Centre for Science and Environment, which is working with the Muzaffarpur Municipal Corporation (MMC). By January 1, 2019, all 49 wards of Muzaffarpur will have segregation practiced at source, along with five model centres to make compost fertiliser and process recyclable wastes like plastic, glass, metal, etc, he added. Volunteers have been going door-to-door to educate the residents on segregation of waste into wet, dry and domestic hazardous waste. "Muzaffarpur is the first city in Bihar to have its own solid waste management bye-laws and is enforcing the ban on plastic carry bags which was recently announced by the state government," said Sanjay Dubey, Municipal Commissioner. "We are making money out of waste. So far, we have sold two tonnes of compost. Once all processing centres are operational, we can produce 25 tonnes of compost every day which will be sold to farmers and residents," added Dubey. --IANS ik/mag/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Madhya Pradesh Congress Chief Kamal Nath on Wednesday said that the BSP's decision to go it alone in the Assembly elections in the state is not a setback and that the party was confident of doing well because of the "groundswell of support is phenomenal". "I don't think it's a setback. Even the smallest BSP worker will understand the implications of this and know how to exercise his option," he told NDTV when asked whether BSP Chief Mayawati's statement ruling out an alliance with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh was a huge setback to his party. Asked whether there was still a possibility of the Congress and the BSP aligning together in the state because of the conciliatory statement of Mayawati towards Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, Kamal Nath said she has already said that her party was going alone in the elections. To a question as to how confident he was about the Congress facing the elections, the senior leader said "absolutely, we are very confident. I have a sense of elections which I have been seeing for the last 40 years. There is a groundswell of support for the party which is phenomenal. We certainly will defeat the BJP." Asked how the alliance talks with the BSP broke, Kamal Nath said he did not know why they broke down. "It is not the numbers alone because BSP just having the numbers (in seats to be contested) is of no use. Actually what matters is the ability to defeat the BJP in a seat." "Let's see, many leaders of many parties are in touch with me over the last few months," he said in reply to another question. Kamal Nath accused the BJP of trying to fragment and split the votes. --IANS rak-vsc/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Canada has formally stripped Myanmar's civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi of her honorary Canadian citizenship over her inaction on military violence against the countrys Rohingya Muslims. Canadian Senators on Tuesday unanimously passed a measure revoking her citizenship and declaring the treatment of Rohingyas by Myanmar's government to be a genocide. The same actions were unanimously approved last week by the House of Commons, CBC News reported. The honour was bestowed on Suu Kyi in 2007 for her pro-democracy campaign in Myanmar, where she spent 15 years under house arrest under the former military government. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991. Now, she has become the first person to have her honorary Canadian citizenship revoked. The votes were prompted in part by a UN investigation that in August called for six top generals in Myanmar to be tried on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity. It also found that Suu Kyi had failed in her duty to protect her own citizens. More than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled to neighbouring Bangladesh since August 2017, when Myanmar's Buddhist-majority security forces began a violent campaign in Rakhine state that included executions, gang rape and the burning of hundreds of villages. About 10,000 people have been killed, the UN said. The UN fact-finding mission condemned Suu Kyi for failing to use her power or moral authority to stem or prevent the genocide and fulfil her responsibility to protect the civilian population. Instead, civilian authorities spread false narratives, allowed hate speech to flourish and blocked independent investigations, the report said. "Stripping her of her honorary citizenship may not make a tangible difference to her, but it sends an important symbolic message," said Senator Ratna Omidvar, who introduced the motion in the Canadian chamber. "She has been complicit in stripping the citizenship and the security of thousands of Rohingya, which has led to their flight, their murder, their rapes and their current deplorable situation." Omidvar also cited the imprisonment of two Reuters journalists who were reporting on the atrocities. Suu Kyi has defended the judge's verdict and sentence in that case. --IANS soni/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With the 43rd World Chess Olympiad nearing the end game phase, the fifth seeded Indian team in the open category will cross swords against the eighth seeded Armenia in the ninth round on Wednesday. Both the teams with 13 points each will play on the third table. On the first table top seeded the US will meet 11th seeded Poland. On the second table third seeded China will play against fourth seeded Azerbaijan. At the start of the ninth round, there are seven teams with 13 points and India is one of them. The top two teams are the US with 15 points and Poland with 14 points. A victory in the three rounds (9th, 10th and 11th) is needed for the Indian open team to figure in the medal list. In the women's section, after being stunned by much lower rated Hungary in the eighth round, fifth seeded India will be meeting 18th seeded Italy. India has scored 11 points in eight rounds. China and Ukraine are leading the women's section with 14 points each and followed by Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, the US, Hungary and Armenia with 13 points each. There are four countries with 12 points and 16 countries, including India with 11 points each. (Venkatachari Jagannathan can be contacted at v.jagannathan@ians.in) --IANS vj/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a clash between police and Maoists in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district early on Wednesday, three left wing extremists were gunned down and one was arrested. Four rifles and a pistol were also recovered from the site, police said. Superintendent of Police (Sukma) Abhishek Meena said: "A police party was out on patrol. As they reached Muler forests adjoining Dantewada-Sukma district border -- some 10 km from here -- they were ambushed by Maoists." The gun-battle continued for at least an hour, leading to killing of three Maoists. The police personnel also nabbed one of the three injured extremists, while the two other managed to flee, Meena said. Two of the killed have been identified as militia commander and militia deputy commander of the militant outfit. --IANS hindi-mag/nir (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Climate and culture are directly linked as without this calamity cannot be avoided, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said after he was conferred the 'Champions of Earth' award of the UN Programme (UNEP) here on Wednesday. "Climate and calamity have direct links with culture," Modi said after he was conferred the award by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres at a special ceremony here. "As long as culture is not a part of our thoughts about the climate, it will be difficult to save ourselves from calamity," he said. Modi, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, was named for this year's 'Champions of Earth' award by UNEP under the Policy Leadership category for their pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and promoting new areas of levels of cooperation on environmental action, including Macron's work on the Global Pact for the and Modi's unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022. India and France played key roles in the drafting of the Paris Climate Agreement during the Conference of Parties (CoP) in 2015. Modi, along with then French President Francois Hollande, launched the India-initiated ISA during CoP 2015. The ISA was conceived as a coalition of solar resource-rich countries to address their special energy needs and provide a platform to collaborate on dealing with the identified gaps through a common, agreed approach. It is open to all 121 prospective member countries falling between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. The first general assembly of the ISA was held here on Tuesday, which was also attended by Guterres. In his remarks at the award presentation ceremony, Modi said that though the world has recognised India's commitment to the cause of climate, it has been a part of Indians' lifestyle for thousands of years. "This award is for our Adivasi brothers and sisters who love the jungles more than themselves," he said. "It is for our fishermen who take from the seas only what is needed to earn for their living. It is for our farmers for whom the cycle of seasons is the cycle of their life." Modi also dedicated the award to the women of India for whom reuse and recycle is a part of their everyday life. He said that without putting extra pressure on the and nature, people need to join hands to take advantage of development opportunities. "That is why I talk about climate justice," he said. "Without ensuring climate, the challenge of climate change cannot be handled." Modi said that today India is among those nations where urbanisation is taking place at a fast pace, which is why emphasis is being put on making Indian cities smart and sustainable. He said that infrastructure is being made keeping sustainable environment and inclusive growth in mind. "Even as the country's national highways and expressways are being made eco-friendly, green corridors are also being developed," the Prime Minister said. "From homes to lanes, offices to streets, ports to airports, campaigns are being run on water and energy conservation," he said. "From LED bulbs to rain water harvesting, technology is being promoted in all possible ways." Modi said that in all these, the biggest success has been a change in people's behaviour and thought process. Speaking on the occasion, Guterres said that the award is a recognition of a statesman who embodies true leadership. "In Prime Minister Modi, we have a leader who realises the issue of climate change and understands the benefits of climate action," the UN Secretary General said. "He knows the problems and also works to solve them." External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, who was also present, said that the award is a fitting recognition of Modi's leadership towards making the world a cleaner place. "He was firm that the agreement in Paris has to stay and the world must come together," Sushma Swaraj said. "As Prime Minister, he has taken numerous steps for the protection of the environment." Stating that Modi has always believed that one can conserve the environment and also move on the path of development, Sushma Swaraj recalled him saying that in case of power shortage, "we will look to the rays of the sun and work on solar energy". On his part, UNEP Executive Director Erik Solheim said that the most important raw material in the world today is political leadership which a leader like Modi has provided. "I give you credit for changing the debate in India from just development to Mother Earth," Solheim said. Describing Mahatma Gandhi as an environmentalist when the word itself did not exist, he said that Gandhi was the first person to raise the issue of air pollution. Stating that there can be no better way to honour Gandhi than the Swachh Bharat campaign, Solheim said that this campaign has the potential to score wins on three fronts - environment, health and jobs. --IANS ab/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Punjab's ruling Congress will contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in the state on its own and will not go in for an alliance with any party, including the Aam Aadmi Party, sources said. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Wednesday conveyed to the Congress high command the party state unit's opinion against going for any political alliance in the state for the forthcoming elections. Talking to media after a meeting with senior Congress leaders in Delhi on Wednesday, Amarinder said they discussed the party matters, particularly relating to the Lok Sabha polls. The Congress leaders present in the meeting included Ahmed Patel, A.K. Antony, Jairam Ramesh, Malikarjuna Kharge and Ghulam Nabi Azad. Amarinder was accompanied Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) president Sunil Jakhar. On alliance in Punjab, Amarinder said both he and the Punjab Congress president had told the Congress central leadership that the they would go on their own and win all the 13 Lok Sabha seats in the state. "As far as a national alliance is concerned, it was up to the party high command to decide," Amarinder said, making it clear that the Congress in Punjab did not need any alliance. There were reports that the Congress could go in for an alliance with the AAP and other parties at the national level for the 2019 general elections to take on the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). However, the Punjab Congress, which sees AAP as an opponent, is not inclined to go in for an alliance in Punjab. The Chief Minister said he had taken the views of his cabinet colleagues after the cabinet meeting earlier on Wednesday on the issue of alliance and all were unanimous that no tie-ups were needed and the party would win the Lok Sabha polls in Punjab. --IANS js/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi electricity distribution company (discom) BSES said on Wednesday that a habitual power thief in the city, who had a non-bailable arrest warrant against him, has been arrested and sent to jail. A BSES release said four different cases of power theft were registered against the offender -- shopowner Makhdoom from the capital's Jama Masjid area -- and his tenant. "Subsequently, the case was heard by the Special Court of Electricity, which directed the accused to pay 30 per cent of the bill amount of Rs 1.3 lakh. He neither appeared for the court hearing nor complied with the order, forcing the court to issue a non-bailable warrant," it said. The arrested accused was produced before the Special Court of Electricity, the discom said. "After hearing the arguments and dismissing his bail application, the court not only sent him to Tihar, but also directed the accused to pay 30 per cent in another case of direct theft where the bill raised was over Rs 3 lakh," it said. Noting that attacks on discom inspection teams by power thieves and a miscreants is a major job hazard, the statement drew attention to the instance last year of a BSES engineer losing his life when he was chased to his death by power thieves in west Delhi. "In an incident in village Kharkhari in Najafgargh where the losses are still above 60 per cent, a six-member BSES team was attacked with stones and manhandled by a group of 10-15 people. They were opposing team's bid to unearth power theft in the area," it said. Power theft-rampant pockets in Delhi include Chandni Chowk, Daryaganj, Najafgargh, Jaffarpur, Mundka, Badarpur, Shaheen Bagh, Karawal Nagar, Seelampur, Mandawali, Chandni Mahal, Nand Nagari, Turkman Gate, Yamuna Vihar and Dallupura, among others, it added. --IANS bc/nir (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Wednesday transferred the sexual assault case against self-styled godman Daati Maharaj to the Central Bureau of Investigation. The case was being probed by Delhi Police. A bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice V. Kameswar Rao transferred the case to the investigating agency on a petition by the victim. The incident came to light after the woman filed a case alleging that the founder of the Delhi-based Shree Shanidham Trust had subjected her to rape and unnatural sex. The High Court pulled up the Delhi Police for not arresting the self-styled godman, and transferred the matter to the CBI. Delhi Police on October 1 filed the chargesheet against Daati Maharaj and others in the case. The court said the CBI can file a supplementary chargesheet and directed the agency to submit a report on investigation in three weeks. The court has listed the case for the next hearing on October 30. The bench was hearing two pleas, one by the complainant and the other a public interest litigation, seeking transfer of the case to the CBI. --IANS akk/shs/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As BSP chief Mayawati on Wednesday ruled out an alliance with the Congress for the Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan Assembly elections, senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said he stood by his comments that she was under the Centres pressure not to ally with his party. Digvijaya Singh, a former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, also dismissed Mayawati's accusation that he had "sabotaged" the BSP-Congress alliance. Mayawati had denied Digvijaya's claims that she was under a "lot of pressure from the Centre because of which she did not want an alliance with the Congress". The senior Congress leader pointed out that the former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister had earlier made her intentions clear by announcing an electoral pact with Ajit Jogi's Janta Congress Chhattisgarh for the Assembly polls in Chhattisgarh. "When Mayawati addressed a press conference with Jogi (September 20), she categorically said that she will not align with the Congress and went ahead to declare her party's alliance with Jogi and even announced contesting 22 seats in Madhya Pradesh unilaterally," Singh told a TV channel. Asked if his statement on Mayawati triggered her latest snub, Singh said: "Nationally, central agencies have been let loose to suppress the voices of every political party or person who is not with the BJP or has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi or his government." The Congress leader added: "We will be very happy if we have an alliance with the BSP. At the national level, I have always supported the idea that all parties opposed to the BJP-RSS ideology should come together to defeat them." --IANS and/tsb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With Mayawati accusing him of "sabotaging" a BSP-Congress alliance, senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Wednesday attempted to do damage control, saying he respected the BSP supremo and will be happy if such an alliance materialised. "I respect her (Mayawati). We will be very happy if we have an alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party. At the national level, I have always supported the idea that all parties opposed to the BJP-RSS ideology should come together to defeat them," Singh told a TV channel. Singh's remarks came soon after Mayawati, in yet another blow to the Congress, ruled out any alliance with the Congress for the coming Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls. Calling him an agent of the RSS-BJP, Mayawati accused him of sabotaging a Congress-BSP alliance. She also dismissed Digvijaya's claims that she was under a "lot of pressure from the Centre because of which she does not want an alliance with the Congress". Asked if his statement on Mayawati triggered her latest snub, Singh said: "Nationally, central agencies have been let loose to suppress the voices of every political party or person who is not with the BJP or has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi or his government." Singh, a former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, also sought to deny Mayawati's accusation of sabotage. He pointed out that the former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister had earlier made her intentions clear by announcing an electoral pact with Ajit Jogi's Janta Congress for the Assembly polls in Chhattisgarh. "When Mayawati addressed a press conference with Jogi (September 20), she categorically said that she will not align with the Congress and went ahead to declare her party's alliance with Jogi and even announced that her party would contest 22 seats in Madhya Pradesh unilaterally," he said. --IANS and/vsc/tsb/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 20-year-old Delhi University student has been arrested on the charge of involvement in the murder of two brothers in his native Haryana due to personal enmity, police said on Wednesday. "Accused Anshu of Sonepat district was arrested on Tuesday evening when he was on way to meet his relative in Mitroan village in Najafgarh area," Deputy Commissioner of Police Anto Alphonse said. "Anshu, a BA first-year student at Swami Shraddhanand College, was badly beaten up in 2017 by Aashish, 25, over a minor issue at a wedding in Halalpur village in Haryana. Anshu told police that Aashish used to taunt him over the assault," the officer added. "Anshu called his friends Sandeep, Rohit, Mannu, Arun and Kartik from Delhi to his village on September 23 to take revenge. They opened fire on Aashish. When his younger brother Himanshu, 21, came to his rescue, they fired at him too. Both brothers died on the spot," he added. All five friends were arrested earlier this week by Haryana Police, he said. Anshu told police that he fell into bad company during his college days and was involved in crime, including two cases of rioting and under the Arms Act in Delhi. --IANS sp/tsb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Thousands of farmers on Wednesday ended their 10-day Kisan Kranti Yatra after arriving at Kisan Ghat in the national capital. The Central government allowed them to enter Delhi in the early hours of Wednesday, ending the prolonged standoff between the police personnel and protesting farmers. Led by Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) chief Naresh Tikait, over 400 tractors carrying thousands of farmers reached Kisan Ghat. Tikait declared it as the "victory of farmers" and said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has failed in its "motives". "The farmers remained unfazed despite all the hardships. We have been marching for 12 days now, farmers are tired as well. We will continue to demand our rights but for now we are ending the march," Tikait told IANS at Kisan Ghat. Shouting anti-BJP slogans, the farmers, with blisters on feet, reached Kisan Ghat at around 2 a.m. on Wednesday. The farmers said they have reached an agreement with the Central government, which, according to them, has accepted "most of the demands". They said that their prime demand of increasing the price of crops has been agreed upon by the government. "A formal announcement in this regard will be made within six days by the government," Rakesh Tikait, national spokesperson of Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), told IANS, shortly before the farmers called off their march. The government has also assured the farmers of bearing the costs for the repair of tractors that were damaged during the standoff with the police personnel at Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border earlier on Tuesday. The farmers raised slogans against the BJP-led Central government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They also hailed former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh -- widely regarded as a hero of the country's peasants, and applauded the coming together of farmers. The top leadership of the protesting farmers later addressed the gathering and said that they should be united in their future struggles too. At around 5.30 a.m. on Wednesday morning, the farmers began dispersing from the Kisan Ghat. Amid massive deployment of security personnel at Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border, the farmers reinforced their march to the national capital after obtaining necessary permissions from the administration. Earlier on Tuesday, as the farmers tried to enter Delhi, police stopped them on the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border, triggering violence that left some of them injured. The farmers have a charter of 15 demands including loan waiver and fair prices for crops, which they want implemented without delay. Their demands include complete loan waiver, revoking ban on 10-year-old tractors in the National Capital Region (NCR), reduction in electricity tariff, implementation of the recommendations of the M.S. Swaminathan Commission on remunerative prices and payment of sugarcane arrears among others. The protesters started their 10-day march from Haridwar in Uttarakhand led by the BKU and on Tuesday, they reached the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border. There was heavy deployment of security forces at the border. --IANS aks/pgh/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The standoff between the agitating farmers and police at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border ended last night after the protesters reached an agreement with the government and they were allowed to march to the Kisan Ghat, the memorial of farmer leader and former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh. The Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU), which spearheaded the 10-day "Kisan Kranti Yatra" from Haridwar to Delhi, said it has managed to convey its demands to the government and the agitation would be resumed if the demands are not accepted. BKU leader Rakesh Tikait told IANS that the objective of the march was to make the government aware of the problems being faced by the farmers which has been achieved. "We went to the Kisan Ghat in the night as the march was supposed to culminate there. We have succeeded in putting our views and demands before the government. Now, it is up to the government to take decisions," said Tikait, adding agitations will be held again if the government fails to fulfil their demands. "Farmers came and raised their voice. The work was done...it was a big march," he said. On the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday, the Central government allowed the protesting farmers to enter Delhi, ending the prolonged standoff between the police personnel and protesting farmers. The protesters had reached the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border on Monday. The protest turned violent on Tuesday as they tried to break barricades and run them over with tractors to enter the national capital, forcing police to use water cannons and tear gas. Led by BKU president Naresh Tikait, over 400 tractors carrying thousands of farmers reached Kisan Ghat at around 2 a.m. Tikait declared it as the "victory of farmers" and said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has failed in its "motives". "The farmers remained unfazed despite all the hardships. We have been marching for 12 days now, farmers are also tired. We will continue to demand our rights but for now we are ending the march," Naresh Tikait told IANS at Kisan Ghat. At around 5.30 a.m, the farmers began dispersing from the Kisan Ghat. They also hailed Chaudhary Charan Singh, widely regarded as a hero of the country's peasants, and applauded the coming together of farmers. The farmers had a charter of 15 demands including immediate loan waiver and fair prices for crops. Their other demands include revoking of the ban on 10-year-old tractors in the National Capital Region (NCR), reduction in electricity tariff, implementation of the recommendations of the M.S. Swaminathan Commission on remunerative prices and payment of sugarcane arrears. With representatives of farmers holding discussions with Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, the government on Tuesday agreed to take "effective measures" to fulfil seven of their 15 demands. The government assurances included filing a review petition in the National Green Tribunal (NGT) for revoking the ban on 10-year-old diesel vehicles (tractors), bringing farm-related products under 5 per cent bracket of Goods and Services Tax (GST), extension of MSP providing 50 per cent profit over the production cost to all notified Rabi crops and boosting the procurement system. The farmers said their prime demand for increasing the price of crops has been agreed to by the government. "A formal announcement in this regard will be made within six days by the government," said Rakesh Tikait, shortly before the farmers called off their march. --IANS spk-aks/vsc/sed/nir (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi on Wednesday said in the coming months, he would be focusing on filling about 5,000 vacancies in the subordinate judiciary in a step to address backlog of over 2.6 crore cases. Justice Gogoi's remark came at a function organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) to felicitate him on his elevation as Chief Justice of India. Underscoring filling of vacancies in subordinate courts, Justice Gogoi said: "We will try to do it in three-four months." He said mere filling of vacancies would not solve the problem. "It is a solution, but not the whole solution. The solution lies with right (choice of) people and will come only if the office maintains its dignity," he said. The Chief Justice's remarks are in reference to Attorney General K.K. Venugopal's oft-repeated suggestions to increase te retirement age of judges in the Supreme Court and high courts. The AG has also advocated significantly increasing the salaries of judges. The Chief Justice said: "You may increase the retirement age of the judges and also increase their salaries as much you want. But that would not solve the problem unless dignity of the institution is maintained." Responding to SCBA president Vikas Singh describing him as a "strict" man, the Chief Justice said: "I am what I am. I can't change." On cases demanding urgent hearings, Chief Justice Gogoi said that he along with his colleagues are trying to evolve a system which can produce better results. "I and my colleagues are working on a system which can provide better results. We are trying to reduce the time in the filing of cases and their listing (before the court). We are trying to introduce a system where cases don't get dropped. If we succeed, perhaps a large section of mentioning will go away altogether." --IANS (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A fire broke out at the Calcutta Medical College and Hospital here on Wednesday morning, which was brought under control after five hours even as authorities evacuated around 250 patients and claimed there were no casualties. Panic gripped patients and their relatives alike as chaos prevailed due to the blaze that broke out at a medical store at the state-run hospital. Some of the critically ill had to be carried out by hospital staff as enough number of stretchers were not available. Authorities said 250 patients were evacuated. "I am a heart patient. I panicked on hearing of the fire," a patient said. "The moment I heard about the fire, we rushed out. But I have no idea when I will be able to take the patient inside as the doctors are unable to say anything," a relative of another patient added. A man claimed that his father, admitted for treatment of a respiratory problem, died after his condition deteriorated after inhaling smoke, though hospital authorities said no death occurred due to the blaze. West Bengal Minister Sovan Chatterjee said all patients in the affected building were shifted to other wards as the fire, though controlled, continued to burn. "The blaze broke out on the ground floor of the hospital building around 7.58 a.m. Ten fire tenders were pressed into service. The situation is now under control," said Jag Mohan, Director General, West Bengal Fire and Emergency Services. "The fire started at a place where gas cylinders, gauzes and bandages are stored. We have identified the source of fire and are working accordingly. We are using extractors to remove smoke from the building. The firefighters are in control of the situation," Mohan said. Forensic experts collected samples from the building in the afternoon. Earlier, thick smoke was seen coming out from the old hospital building that houses the Cardiology, Hematology and Endocrinology departments. "Medicine stocks costing Rs 5 crore were destroyed," said the incharge of the pharmacy housed in the damaged building. Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Chandrima Bhattacharya assured that the stocks of lifesaving medicines destroyed in the fire will be replaced. A son of deceased Shaidul Islam Mullick, a resident of Hoogly district's Khanakul, said his father was admitted to the hospital last week. "My father was suffering from respiratory problems. He was stable in the morning. But he had to be rushed out of the ward after the fire broke out. His condition deteriorated as he inhaled a lot of smoke. The doctors took him to the Emergency Ward but he passed away around 10 a.m.," he claimed. Medical College Superintendent Asish Kumar Basu, however, told IANS: "All patients were safely evacuated. No patient was injured or fell ill during the shifting. The process of returning the patients to their respective ward has already started. We have to check the case of this person's death. According to the doctors, his condition was critical before the fire." --IANS mgr-bnd/tsb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) From wheeled chairs and crutches to hearing aids, the central government on Wednesday distributed an array of disability aid devices to 910 senior citizens below the poverty line (BPL) here. More than 2,500 aids and appliances including dentures, spectacles, walking sticks and tripods were distributed to senior citizens under the 58th Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) Camp, a scheme for senior citizens who come under the BPL category, said a statement issued by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. In the camp, organised at Jhilmil Industrial Area in east Delhi, disability aid tools worth Rs 50 lakh were distributed among the identified beneficiaries who were registered during the assessment camp conducted by Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) in the area in February. So far, 58 distribution camps have been conducted all over the country under the RVY scheme in which more than 60,000 beneficiaries were given appliances worth Rs 3,000 lakh, the statement said. --IANS mg/mag/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actor Johnny Depp, who faced accusations of domestic violence against his former wife Amber Heard, says he was never going to be Cinderella. With a barrage of accusations levied against him, the actor says he has been portrayed as Quasimodo, reports mirror.co.uk. Heard accused him of domestic violence during a bitter divorce battle, and he became embroiled in a lawsuit against his former management, which was settled in July. Meanwhile, a legal battle with a location manager who accuses him of violence on the set of shelved film "City of Lies" (which he denies) rattles on. "It hurts," Depp said in an interview to a magazine. "To harm someone you love? As a kind of bully? No, it didn't, it couldn't even sound like me. Initially, I just kept my mouth shut, you know? I knew it was going to stick on me and it would get weirder. "I ain't going to get into a p***ing contest with someone about it... I never went out and spoke about the s***." He described Hollywood as a "vile f***ing circus". "I was never going to be Cinderella," he said. "I know this and accept it. But it felt like within a very, very short period of time that suddenly this version - for lack of a better word - of Cinderella had been immediately turned into the beast. He's Quasimodo. "I could feel people look at me differently, because of the accusations towards you. And then people start putting things in magazines: 'He's insane. He needs to take a sanity test...' You know, ludicrous stuff. "Ultimately, the truth will come out in all of this and I will be standing on the right side of the roaring rapids." --IANS nn/rb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With the punitive US law CAATSA looming large over the Indo-Russian S-400 missile deal, Air Force chief B.S. Dhanoa on Wednesday said that he expected the deal to sail through "as and when the government clears it". "The negotiations are over and it is with the government now. I don't think that CAATSA is likely to come in the way. But the decision belongs to the government," the Air Chief Marshal said a day ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin's 2-day visit to India. Putin will hold a bilateral meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 5 and the over Rs 40,000 crore S-400 Triumf air defence system is likely to be top on the agenda. Media reported Putin's top foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov as saying on Tuesday that the S-400 deal was very much likely to be signed during President Putin's visit to India. Dhanoa said S-400 would be like a "booster shot" in the IAF's arm. India has been treading cautiously on the deal, which it has been discussing with Russia since 2015, amid US objections and threats of sanctions if India went ahead with the purchase of surface-to-air S-400 missile system. Congressman Mac Thornberry, the Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee that oversees the US Department of Defense, has said there was "concern" in the US that the deal would complicate matters as far as "ability to work on inter-operability" was concerned. The US last year passed the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CATSA that mandates the US administration to punish countries engaging in major transactions with Russia, Iran and North Korea. However, the US Congress has now passed a law granting waiver to some countries. India is expecting to be a beneficiary of the waiver. But the US President has to personally certify the deal for a waiver. --IANS mak/vsc/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In the midst of a raging controversy over HAL not getting offset contract in the Rafale deal, Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa on Wednesday said the state of relations between the force and the public sector firm was not meant for public consumption but felt that the company lagged in meeting some production targets. "Whether we are happy or unhappy with the HAL is a matter of internal debate. It is not for public debate," he said here in response to a media query about the state-owned aircraft manufacturer kept out of the Rafale offset deal. Asked what he thought of the HAL's capabilities, Dhanoa said that the company had provided tremendous support to the Air Force, though it was lagging in meeting its production targets. "There has been a slight lag in the delivery schedule of HAL of the contract that they already executed. Sukhoi-30 are three years behind schedule as 25 aircraft are yet to be delivered. "Similarly, in Jaguar, we are six years behind, in LCA (light combat aircraft) we are five years behind, in Mirage-2000 upgrade we are two years behind," he said. "As far as overall production goes, they (HAL) have met all production targets. In the last financial year, they have met their production target...It is because of their support that we could maintain such a high serviceability and high rate of dispatch of aircraft," the IAF chief said. Questions were raised about the capability of HAL when a private firm was preferred over it for the approximately Rs 30,000 crore offset contract. The state-owned firm was the expected first choice for the contract. The opposition has been accusing the Narendra Modi government of indulging in crony capitalism by denying HAL the contract and giving it to a newly-incorporated private firm. The government has denied any role in the offset contract, saying it was Dassault Aviation, the French manufacturer of the Rafale aircraft, that made the choice. Dhanoa, too, on Wednesday said that it was a "corporate decision" made by the manufacturer (Dassault) to give the offset contract to a private firm. "The manufacturer has to choose the offset partner. The government or the IAF has nothing to do with it," he said. --IANS mak/vsc/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Wednesday signed a $240 million loan agreement to provide safe drinking water to about 1.65 million people in three districts of West Bengal, an official statement said. The project aims to provide safe and sustainable drinking water to people in Bankura, North 24 Parganas and Purba Medinipur affected by arsenic, fluoride and salinity. "Heavy reliance on groundwater puts most of the rural population in West Bengal at risk from arsenic and fluoride contamination that can lead to health problems including cancer and bone diseases," the Ministry of Finance said in the statement "The project aims to mitigate these risks through provision of continuous potable water through metered connections to about 390,000 individual households in the three districts," it said. The West Bengal Drinking Water Sector Improvement Project is supported by a grant of $3 million from the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction and a $2 million grant from ADB's Urban Climate Change Resilience Trust Fund. The agreement was signed by Ministry of Finance Additional Secretary Sameer Kumar Khare for the Indian government and ADB's India Resident Mission Country Director Kenichi Yokoyama for the multilateral lending agency. Khare said the project will help mitigate the health risks from using groundwater with elevated levels of arsenic and fluoride. Yokoyama said that besides reducing the burden of diseases from contaminated groundwater, it will promote higher service levels compared with rural schemes in India with individual household connections. The Ministry said it will support the state in strengthening its smart water management system, improve flood-related early warning and response, and provide training on operation and maintenance as well as climate change and disaster resilience. --IANS mgu/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Indonesian authorities on Wednesday raised to 1,407 the number of deaths caused by the 7.5 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami that struck Sulawesi Island. In a televised press conference in Jakarta, National Agency for Disaster Management spokesperson Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said the figure was expected to continue rising as search and rescue operations were underway with more rescuers and equipment joining in the mission. Most deaths were recorded in Palu, the worst affected city on Sulawesi Island, while the rest of the casualties were in the neighbouring Donggala district and parts of Sigi and Parigi Moutong, Sutopo said. An estimated 2.4 million people were affected by the twin disasters. A total of 70,821 people fled their homes and took shelter in camps or under tarpaulins in 141 spots. So far, not all of the basic needs have been provided, Sutopo was cited as saying by Efe news. The number of people admitted to hospitals went up to 2,549 and those missing to 113. About 65,733 houses were damaged or destroyed. The catastrophe began on Friday with a 6.1 magnitude earthquake that killed one person. It was followed by the 7.5 magnitude earthquake and then a tsunami. Sutopo said that 63 per cent of Indonesians in the Sulawesi region hit by the quake and tsunami failed to hear the warning sirens. Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Wednesday made his second visit to the devastated areas in Palu and Donggala. He later tweeted that a rapid response was the most important thing after the tragedy. Widodo said that aid had started arriving and that US President Donald Trump had called him to offer assistance, state news agency Antara reported. His visit came as electricity was being restored to around 30 per cent of Palu -- a city of 350,000 inhabitants - Sarjan Mokodomgan, an employee of the state-owned electricity company, told Efe news. Gasoline distribution began on Wednesday after at least a dozen tanker trunks arrived with fuel. Indonesian authorities and various local and international organizations were working to bring humanitarian aid and medical assistance to those affected. Meanwhile, the Soputan volcano located on the Sulawesi Island erupted on Wednesday, prompting authorities to raise the alert in the area to the second highest level. Sotupan emitted a column of smoke and ash 4,000 metres high and authorities established a safety radius of 4 km around the crater. Sotupan's activity coincided with that of the Anak Krakatau volcano located in the Sunda Strait, between the islands of Sumatra and Java, which in recent weeks recorded dozens of eruptions. Officials said that the condition of Anak Krakatau was safe, and beyond the safety perimetre established within a radius of 2 km around the crater. --IANS soni/shs/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The tsunami-swept Palu city on Indonesia's Sulawesi Island still lingers with helplessness due to stalled economy following multiple cuts down on electricity and fuel supplies that paralyzed activities to run the city. Such a situation was worsened by rampant looting of merchandises in stores conducted by people in the city, making all stores, gas stations and other economic elements stop their operation. The looting of stores and mini markets in Palu and the other city affected by the earthquake, Donggala, entered a concerning level as people also targeted stores selling secondary goods other than stores selling staple foods and daily necessities, Xinhua news agency reported. The Indonesian government previously allowed tsunami survivors to take food and other basic supplies from grocery stores to temporarily support their lives after the tsunami while aids were being delivered to them. The process to deliver aids for refugees and survivors of tsunami faced difficulties as the mainland accesses to Palu and Donggala were clogged by stones rolling down from hills due to aftershocks that made it riskier for aids team to get supplies to Palu. The province's only airport serving flights to Palu was not operating normally as part of its runway was cracked by the strong earthquake that made it only capable of serving propeller planes, instead of large cargo aids deliverer planes. Responding to the developing situation, Indonesian President Joko Widodo issued an order to immediately restore the economy in Palu and fix the damaged infrastructure so as to secure distribution of logistics. "I have ordered the police chief and military commander to deploy more personnel in guarding gas stations and business centres so as to make stores reopened, recover the economy in Palu," he said on Tuesday. He said that accelerated works needed to be carried out by related institutions to fix the airport, access roads blocked by mud and stones from the earthquake. The government was taking measures to restore security for shop and store owners. Authorities said they arrested 45 looters, but the stores were yet to be reopened for the public in central Palu. The Indonesian retailers association said that losses sustained by mini market chain stores operating in Palu and Donggala had reached 450 billion rupiah (about $2.9 million) as of Monday. The losses came up from the looted merchandises, store buildings, display set and warehouse operated by mini markets in the association, including Ramayana, Matahari, Hypermarket and Alfamidi. The military was deploying battalions to the hardest-hit two cities to ensure the security of stores and mini markets, so that people can buy food and groceries. Meanwhile, the Indonesian government has restored power supply in parts of Palu. Supply of gasoline was gradually improving as the government ordered state-run oil and gas firm Pertamina to mobilize its gasoline stocks stored in provinces around Sulawesi to the tsunami-affected Palu. --IANS soni/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Global software major's philanthropic arm Infosys Foundation on Wednesday said it would build the Centre for Cybercrime Investigation Training and Research (CCITR) in Bengaluru for the Karnataka Police. "The centre aims to train police, prosecution, judiciary and other departments in handling technology investigations and create standard operating procedures in cybercrime investigations," said the city-based Infosys Foundation in a statement. The Foundation has signed an agreement with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the state police and the IT industry body Nasscom-owned Data Security Council of India (DSCI) to set up the centre. Through hacking, online harassment, unwarranted surveillance, frauds, copyright infringement and other means, cybercrime not only hurts individuals, but is a threat to nations, causing billions of dollars of damage to the global economy. The facility will be used to perform research in digital forensics and cybercrime investigation to improve the prosecution of cybercrime cases investigation by Karnataka Police, the statement added. The Foundation said it will bear the costs incurred in setting up, operation and maintenance of the technological infrastructure at the centre and will provide the investment for hardware, software and capital required for holding training programmes. The cost involved in setting up of the centre, however, has not been specified. "We will also support the upgradation of the existing cyber lab for a period of five years along with technological infrastructure by providing specialised tools and incurring licensing costs," it added. The centre will be a project for both present and the future, said Infosys Foundation Chairperson Sudha Murty in the statement. "We aim to build state-of-the-art facilities to tackle cyber and forensic crimes in Karnataka. Once operational, the centre will be a milestone to curb misuse and unethical use of technology to create distress for fellow beings," said Murty. With cybercrime said to become one of the largest organised crimes in the near future, law enforcement agencies need to be equipped with the hardware, software and expertise to face the challenges ahead, Karnataka CID Director General of Police Praveen Sood said. "Cyberspace has turned out to be the world's largest ungoverned space demolishing all geographical boundaries. The centre will improve the investigation and prosecution of cybercrime," added Sood. --IANS bha/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A group of Class 11 students clashed with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Sopore town on Wednesday protesting against the conduct of the Class 11 examinations by the state board of school The protestors assembled in Iqbal Chowk area and pelted stones at the security forces, who responded with tear gas shells. The Class 11 exams were for the first time being conducted by the board. Earlier they used to be conducted as in-house exams by the schools. --IANS sq/in/vm (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Kerala government has told fishermen not to venture into the sea after October 5 following warning of a cyclone by India Meterological Department, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Wednesday. The government is making arrangements to inform people in the coastal areas of the state, he said. "The IMD has sounded a red alert in Idukki, Palakkad and Thrissur districts, as very heavy rains have been predicted on October 7, while several parts of the state are likely to get heavy rains on October 5," the Chief Minister told media here. District authorities have been asked to be ready for any eventuality as landslides can be expected, said Vijayan. "In view of the forecast, it's better to avoid travel at night, especially in the hilly areas. Starting Friday, travel towards Munnar should be avoided until further orders. Also, those living along the banks of lakes and rivers should not go out for fishing," said Vijayan. --IANS sg/shs/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Police on Wednesday arrested a local Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militant in Sopore of north Kashmir. The militant was held during a routine checking on Baramulla-Handwara road in Sopore area, the police said. "The militant had joined LeT outfit a few days back when his video went viral on social media in which he was seen giving threats to people of north Kashmir against participation in the municipal and and Panchayat elections. "The arrested militant has been identified as Amir Sultan War, son of Mohammad Sultan War, a resident of Naidkhai Sumbal in Bandipora district." --IANS sq/nir (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Maharashtra government on Wednesday moved the Supreme Court challenging a Delhi High Court order for the release of human rights activist Gautam Navlakha from house arrest. The Maharashtra government contended that the High Court's release order on Monday will preclude investigators from proceeding further in accordance with law. The High Court had said his detention was "untenable." Navlakha and four other rights activists were arrested on August 28 by the Pune Police in various cities on the charges of having Maoist links and in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima violence in Maharashtra. The Supreme Court last Friday refused to interfere in the arrest of the five activists and declined to set up an SIT, allowing the Pune police to go ahead with its probe in the Bhima-Koregaon case. However, the house arrest of Sudha Bhardwaj, Varavara Rao, Gautam Navlakha, Vernon Gonsalves and Arun Ferreira will continue for four more weeks, the court had said in a 2:1 majority judgment. The Pune police had claimed that it was in possession of "digital evidence about a larger conspiracy to mobilise cadres for action against security forces". The Pune police had also alleged that the Maoists had plans to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi. --IANS and/tsb/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In yet another blow to the Congress, BSP chief Mayawati on Wednesday ruled out any alliance with the party in the coming Assembly polls in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, a decision that could also impact the opposition's plan for a grand alliance against the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. "The Congress is two steps ahead of the BJP in attempts to finish the BSP politically. In the interest of the BSP movement, it has been decided that the party would not ally with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan at any cost," she told a press conference. The BSP chief's announcement comes nearly a fortnight after her statement ruling out an alliance with the Congress in Chhattisgarh where she tied up with former chief minister Ajit Jogi's party Janata Congress for the Assembly elections due next month. Significantly, at the swearing in of Karnataka Chief Minister H.D.Kumaraswamy in May, Mayawati was present along with national leaders including UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi that lent credence to the theory that a grand alliance was possible against the BJP in the next Lok Sabha elections. Asked whether the BSP would align with the Congress in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Mayawati said, "I have said everything about this." Reading from a prepared statement, Mayawati said that the Congress attitude was not to defeat the BJP but to weaken opposition parties which is unfortunate. "The Congress had adopted similar tactics in the past and was continuing it now. Even now it was not trying to change itself." Interestingly, she praised Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi but attacked Digvijaya Singh, senior Congress leader from Madhya Pradesh saying he was an "RSS agent" and was "sabotaging" the BSP-Congress alliance. She also did not refer to any other Congress leaders of Madhya Pradesh. "I feel that Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi's intentions for Congress-BSP alliance are honest. However some Congress leaders are sabotaging this," she said. Mayawati said Digvijaya Singh, who is an agent of the BJP, has been giving statements that she has a lot of pressure from the Centre and so she did not want an alliance with the Congress. "This is baseless," she said. "Congress leaders like Digvijaya Singh do not wish for a Congress-BSP alliance. They are afraid of agencies like ED, CBI." Referring to seat-sharing negotiations with the Congress, Mayawati said in Madhya Pradesh the Congress offered only 15 to 20 of the 230 seats to the BSP and five of the 90 seats in Chhattisgarh. She said had the Congress not adopted an "adamant" attitude it could have got the benefit of an alliance with the BSP, only whose votes are entirely transferable. In such alliances, the BSP suffers the most than benefiting, she added. "The BSP is a party of all communities including dalits, adivasis, backward, downtrodden, farmers, labourers and Muslims and other minorities. We are not going to bow at any cost before either BJP or Congress. It will not be the puppet in the hands of anyone. We still have the capacity to bounce back," she said. Mayawati said fearing the BJP, the Congress was not giving tickets to Muslims candidates but the BSP does not do it. She gave the example of Faizabad where the party fielded a Muslim candidate. "Congress is not learning lessons from its mistakes and this is the reason why BJP is in power at the Centre and in many states. The Congress is under an illusion and feeling arrogant that it will defeat the BJP on its own. But it does not realise that still the people are against Congress' policies. Mayawati said in a direct fight with the Congress, the BJP wins easily. "Even then the Congress does not place the non-BJP parties ahead and is not ready to make alliances with opposition parties to take on BJP," she said. She accused the BJP of doing of casteism and communalism. "There is tension in the society. Violence is happening. A situation of anarchy is prevailing. Despite this the Congress is not ready to change itself. The BSP has always backed Congress to keep BJP out of power and has suffered on account of it. Instead of being thanked for it, the BSP has been backstabbed by the Congress, which has been hatching conspiracies to weaken the non-BJP parties." --IANS rak-bns/vsc/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma warned on Wednesday that growing insularity could trigger social tensions and strife across the globe. Speaking at the first Indonesia-India Interfaith Dialogue in the Indonesian island Java, Sangma said all religions preach peace and that "it is crime against god to use religion to incite hatred and violence." "Indonesia-India Interfaith Dialogue has the potential to emerge as an effective forum to nurture peace and harmony, not only in the two countries but also in the region and the world," Sangma observed. The Dialogue aims to promote pluralism and eradicate radicalism. The three-day programme comprises a discussion, visits to places of worship and dialogues between Hindu, Islamic, Christian and Buddhist religious leaders of both the countries. The Indian delegation is being led by Minister of State for External Affairs M.J. Akbar. --IANS rkk/shs/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Global credit rating agency Moody's Investors Service on Wednesday assigned 'A3' local-currency issuer rating to Infosys with stable outlook, citing the company's strong financial profile. "The rating is based on Infosys' status as a leading IT consulting and services firm, with operations across business segments and geographies, profitability and a solid balance sheet," said the city-based firm in a statement, citing Moody's. The rating puts the $10.9-billion software exporter two notches above the Indian government's Baa2 stable rating, thanks to the information technolgy major's international revenue base and a strong financial profile. Infosys has 'A' rating from the US-based financial services firm Standard & Poor's. "With Moody's and S&P's ratings, the company will have dual investment grade ratings, which are higher than India's sovereign ratings from both these agencies," Infosys said. The stable outlook takes into account the company's liquidity, a debt-free balance sheet, strong operating metrics, and a robust business model. "Moody's rating is a testimony to our resilient global business model, which has delivered consistent business outcomes over the years," said the company's Chief Financial Officer M.D. Ranganath in the statement. The rating is also reflective of the company's robust financial position, healthy cash flow and a good financial performance, added Ranganath. --IANS fb/shs/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The wife of former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak was arrested on Wednesday on money-laundering charges related to a corruption scandal. Rosmah Mansor, 66, was arrested by Malaysia's Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and will face several money laundering charges, Efe news reported citing a statement. This was Rosmah's third appearance in front of commission after she was interrogated on June 5 and September 26. She was questioned over the alleged diversion of funds from the state-owned 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) fund to the couple's private accounts. Her husband was also questioned by the police on Wednesday, having been released on bail last Friday after being charged with 25 fresh charges of money-laundering and abuse of power. Najib, 65, has been charged with 32 counts of corruption in 1MDB, which he founded in 2009 and presided over till 2016. A news report in 2015 alleged that Najib had diverted $681 million from 1MDb into his personal account. He denied the allegations, saying the money was a donation from a Saudi prince. He was cleared by Malaysian authorities while in power. The case was reopened after a change in government in May and new Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad banned his predecessor and wife from leaving the country pending an investigation. Six other countries, including the US, Switzerland and Singapore, opened probes into the embezzlement and diversion of funds from the 1MDB, a fund established to attract foreign investment which accumulated a debt of 42 billion ringgit (around $10 billion). The US Department of Justice estimated that about $4.5 billion were diverted from 1MDB, of which about $1 billion could have been laundered in the US through the purchase of real estate, yachts, jewellery and works of art, among other goods. --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Frances Arnold of California Institute of Technology in the US on Wednesday became only the fifth woman in history to win the Nobel Prize in Chemistry when the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced the award that recognised two other scientists for their works on proteins. While Arnold has won one half of the 9 million Swedish krona (Rs 7.3 crore) award, the other half would be shared by George Smith of University of Missouri in the US and Gregory Winter of the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Britain. Before Arnold, only four women -- Ada Yonath in 2009, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin in 1964, Irene Joliot-Curie in 1935 and Marie Curie in 1911 -- won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. "This year's Nobel Laureates in Chemistry have been inspired by the power of evolution and used the same principles -- genetic change and selection -- to develop proteins that solve mankind's chemical problems," the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said in a statement. In 1993, Arnold conducted the first directed evolution of enzymes, which are proteins that catalyse chemical reactions. Since then, she has refined the methods that are now routinely used to develop new catalysts. The uses of Arnold's enzymes include more environmentally friendly manufacturing of chemical substances, such as pharmaceuticals, and the production of renewable fuels for a greener transport sector. The other half of this year's Nobel Prize in Chemistry would be shared by Smith and Winter. In 1985, Smith developed an elegant method known as phage display, where a bacteriophage -- a virus that infects bacteria -- can be used to evolve new proteins. Winter used phage display for the directed evolution of antibodies, with the aim of producing new pharmaceuticals. The first one based on this method, adalimumab, was approved in 2002 and is used for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel diseases. Since then, phage display has produced anti-bodies that can neutralise toxins, counteract autoimmune diseases and cure metastatic cancer. "The 2018 Nobel Laureates in Chemistry have taken control of evolution and used it for purposes that bring the greatest benefit to humankind," the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said. --IANS gb/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued notice to the Election Commission (EC) on a plea by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs to call witnesses for examination in the office-of-profit case. Justice Siddharth Mridul passed the order while hearing their petition against the poll panel's rejection of their plea for calling witnesses. The court also sought the response of complainant Prashant Patel on whose plea the poll panel had earlier recommended disqualification of legislators. The matter was listed for hearing on November 1. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had appointed 20 AAP legislators as Parliamentary Secretaries. Advocate Prashant Patel had approached the EC seeking their disqualification on the ground that they held office of profit. --IANS akk/tsb/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US State Department has said Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to North Korea for further talks concerning the country's denuclearization. In a press briefing on Tuesday, State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said that Pompeo will talk with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported. Pompeo would also travel to Japan, South Korea and China on October 6-8 to brief them about his visit, she added. Noting that Pompeo is making his fourth trip to North Korea in less than a year, Nauert said, "we have quite a ways to go but we look forward to the next steps in this conversation." Refusing to say that talks with North Korea has been stalled, she said "the secretary and the president said we're not going to set arbitrary deadlines in the interim. We're hopeful." She added that "among the things that the secretary discussed were security assurances," referring to Pompeo's agenda in North Korea. Nauert also said that "obviously these conversations are going in the right direction." North Korea had earlier demanded the US take steps to secure Pyongyang's trust before its denuclearization. "Without any trust in the US there will be no confidence in our national security and under such circumstances there is no way we will unilaterally disarm ourselves first," North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho told the UN General Assembly. Speaking before a meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in in New York recently, Trump announced that himself and Kim will hold a second summit "in the not too distant future". After a meeting between Pompeo and Ri on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, the State Department announced that Pompeo will travel to North Korea to discuss the second Trump-Kim summit. In his speech at the UN General Assembly, Trump thanked Kim "for his courage and for the steps he has taken." But he added that much work remains to be done and that the sanctions against North Korea will stay in place "until denuclearization occurs". --IANS pgh/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bollywood actress and global Unicef Goodwill Ambassador for Child Rights Priyanka Chopra has welcomed Unicef Executive Director Henrietta H. Fore on her maiden trip in India. "As part of Unicef's continued global efforts to make the world a better place for children, Unicef Executive Director Henrietta Fore is visiting India for the first time. Welcome Unicef Chief, so glad to have you here and I hope your visit is a good and productive one," Priyanka tweeted on Wednesday. Priyanka has worked with Unicef since 2006 and was appointed as the national and global Unicef Goodwill Ambassador for Child Rights in 2010 and 2016, respectively. She promotes various causes such as environment, health and education, and women's rights and is particularly vocal about gender equality and feminism. On the acting front, the "Mary Kom" actress is shooting for Shonali Bose's "The Sky Is Pink" with Farhan Akhtar. She is currently in Jodhpur with fiance Nick Jonas, and some of her friends. --IANS dc/rb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Thousands of protesting Rajasthan government employees on a strike for several days will march to Ajmer on October 6 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the city. "Representatives of around 50,000 employees will meet the Prime Minister during his visit on October 6, as our problems remain unresolved," Manoj Saxena, state president, Mantralaya Karamchari Mahasangh, told IANS here. "We will wear white T-shirts with our demands written on it to draw his attention towards our problems," he added. Key public services such as tranportation and healthcare have come to a halt in Rajasthan, as thousands of state employees have struck work to press for a slew of demands, including implementation of the 7th Pay Commission from January 2016, an increase in allowances, and filling up of vacancies in different departments. Around 20,000 employees of the Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation have been on strike since September 16. As many as 4,500 buses remain off roads, inconveniencing around 10 lakh passengers. Ministerial staff too, numbering about 50,000, have suspended work since September 19. The state's Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) also joined the protests on Tuesday. Also, some pharmacists at SMS Hospital and other government hospitals suspended work from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. "Rajasthan has been turned into 'Hadtalistaan' under the BJP regime. The entire government machinery has crumbled and the Chief Minister has failed to deliver governance in state," said former Chief Minister and Congress General Secretary Ashok Gehlot. Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot said there was no point in taking out a Gaurav Yatra (BJP-sponsored), when the entire state machinery is in limbo. BJP state president Madanlal Saini said: "The state government is considering their demands and has formed a ministerial committee to look into issues. The committee will soon come out with a suitable decision soon." (Archana Sharma can be contacted at arachana.g@gmail.com) --IANS arc/shs/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Coming out in full support of the government in the controversial Rafale deal, Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa on Wednesday said the government took a "bold decision" in going for the fighter jets which he said would be a "game changer" in the Indian sub-continent when they come. He also said that the Air Force was consulted at the "appropriate level" before the government went ahead with the decision. "I will not go into the political thing around the deal. All I can say is that it is a very good aircraft and when it comes to the sub-continent, it will be a game changer. Because it has got significant capabilities, better than what our regional adversaries have got," Dhanoa said. "We have got a very good package along with the aircraft. We have got the most modern sensors, best in class weapons, state-of-the-art electronic warfare and enhanced survivability, India-specific enhancements, better overall delivery schedules, extended warranty etc. So we have got lot of advantage," he added. Talking about the deal, he said it came at a time when the IAF squadrons were depleting and the force needed a "booster shot". "We had reached an impasse. There were just three options. Either we continued indefinitely to resolve differences between Dassault Aviation and HAL and hope that something would happen. Or we cancel the RFP and start all over again. Or we go ahead with the purchase," Dhanoa said. "If we decided to scrap Rafale and go buy some other aircraft it would set us back by another six years. It was decided to procure Rafale on government-to-government basis to meet the critical operational requirements of the IAF. So the government took a very bold decision," he added. He said the IAF had given the government some options. And it was the prerogative of the government to choose from those options. Stressing that all concerns about Rafale being the first choice had been addressed adequately at appropriate levels, the IAF chief said that the jet was better than any country in this region has. On the controversy surrounding the price of the 36 Rafale jets, the air force chief said that the Cost Negotiation Committee (CNC) cleared the proposal after due consideration and addressing all "observations" made at this stage. "The CNC was led by the Deputy Chief of IAF. The cost has been covered by MoS Defence and the Finance Minister in Parliament. That is the figure that we stick to. "Just by pure simple logic, if you have a past negotiation committee that has already discovered a price, I am sure the CNC will choose a price lower than the previous one. Or it can never be substantially higher than the old price," Dhanoa said. On keeping the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) out of the deal, Dhanoa said there was "no question" of keeping HAL out as the 36 aircraft were purchased off the shelf. "The next question comes to offsets. The manufacturer (in this case Dassault) chooses the offset partners. It is a corporate decision for them whether they want to do offset work or not. The manufacturer has to choose the offset partner. The government or IAF has nothing to do with it," he said. --IANS mak/vsc/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Lelectricite est devenue, de nos jours, un besoin dune importance majeure, et cela, dans tous les domaines dactivite. Que ce soit dans les maisons ou [] The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on Wednesday approved a financial package of Rs 469.41 crore for the revival of Nepa Ltd, a public sector newsprint company in Madhya Pradesh. The "revival and mill development plan" includes infusion of Rs 277 crore as equity to enhance the annual production capacity to one lakh metric tonne, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told reporters after the Cabinet meeting. The production capacity currently stands at around 83,000 metric tonne. The package also includes a loan of Rs 101.58 crore for payment of salaries and Rs 90.83 crore for voluntary retirement scheme of some 400 employees, he said. The Cabinet also approved strategic disinvestment of Nepa Ltd at an appropriate time after the completion of revival plan, an official said. "The completion of the revival plan will help the company command a better presence in the market besides supporting employment in the tribal belt of Madhya Pradesh," the official added. --IANS vv/nir (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Riding on a stellar performance by Note 9, Samsung registered a 60 per cent market share (by value) and 62.5 per cent market share (by volume) in the premium segment for the month of August in India, a new report said on Wednesday. According to the German market research firm Gfk, Samsung not only led the Rs 40,000 and above segment but also registered a 55.5 per cent market share (by value) and 55 per cent (by volume) in the Rs 30,000 and above segment in August in the country. "We are extremely happy with the way our numbers are growing. We are bullish on further consolidating our leadership position in the Indian smartphone market. Our aim is to grow at 20-25 per cent in India in the festive quarter (October-December)," Aditya Babbar, General Manager, Samsung India, told IANS. Galaxy Note 9 was launched in India on August 24 and pre-booking for the phone started on August 10. "When we launched Note 9, we introduced a lot of consumer-centric offers like Rs 6,000 cash back on Paytm and Rs 6,000 upgrade offer," said Babbar, adding that Note 9 is Samsung's most successful "N Series" smartphone. In the first half of 2018, Samsung led the Rs 30,000 segment by 50 per cent (in value) and 51 per cent (in volume). After ruling the premium segment, Samsung has set its eyes on dominating the mid-price segment in India which is currently flooded with Chinese variants. The company last month launched Galaxy A7 with triple rear cameras for Rs 23,990 in blue, black and gold colours. On October 11, Samsung will launch their first four-rear camera system device A9 in the premium segment (above Rs 30,000). --IANS gb/na/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A prominent Saudi journalist known as one of the country's most outspoken critic has gone missing after visiting its consulate in Turkey, raising concerns about his safety. Jamal Khashoggi, a contributor to the Washington Post, entered the Saudi Arabia's consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday afternoon for a visit relating to filing a divorce before he can remarry, the Guardian reported on Wednesday. "We don't know if he is being detained, questioned or when he will be released," the Post said. His Turkish fiancee, who waited outside for him for 12 hours, said he had failed to come out and then she called the police. She was accompanying him to the consulate but said she was not allowed to go inside with him. Khashoggi was also required to surrender his mobile phone. Another close friend also said the 59-year-old journalist had not left the consulate, a claim disputed by a Saudi official. It was not known if Khashoggi was able to leave the mission or he was being held against his will or was taken elsewhere, reports say. Qatar-based news outlet Al-Jazeera reported that Turkish police began a search for the missing writer. Khashoggi has been living in self-imposed exile in the US and is an established critic of the Saudi government -- particularly the reform plans championed by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. "With every supposed reform comes a wave of fresh arrests, prison sentences and increasingly repressive behaviour," said Jason Rezaian, a commentator for the Post. "At each turning point, though, Jamal has offered readers of the Post insightful commentary and sharp criticism about the seemingly impenetrable country." The BBC said that Khashoggi served as an adviser to the Saudi royal family and was for many years seen as an insider, until he left more than a year ago amid a reported clampdown on press freedom. With over 1.6 million followers on Twitter, Khashoggi is a prolific commentator in print and on television. He was famous for interviewing Osama bin Laden several times and also served as a aide under Prince Turki al-Faisal, when the latter was Director General of the Saudi intelligence agency. A US state department spokesperson said they had seen the reports from Istanbul and were "seeking more information at this time". --IANS soni/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday ruled out the possibility of a second Brexit referendum, saying the second referendum would be a "politicians' vote". "Politicians telling people they got it wrong the first time and should try again.. think for a moment what it would do to faith in our democracy," she said, referring to the "latest plan of holding a second referendum" which was called "People's Vote". "There are plenty of prominent people in British who want to stop Brexit in its tracks," she warned while speaking at the annual Conservative Party Conference. She defended the Brexit plan proposed by her but rejected by the European Union, saying it is for a free trade deal that provides for frictionless trade in goods, Xinhua news agency reported. "It would protect hundreds of thousands of jobs in the just-in-time supply chains our manufacturing firms rely on," the Prime Minister said. Britain "isn't afraid" to leave the EU with no deal, she said, adding that "resilience and ingenuity" of people will see Britain through. "Pursuing our own visions of the perfect Brexit could lead to no Brexit at all, May said, adding that she believed "our best days lie ahead of us". Earlier in the day, Conservative Member of Parliament James Duddridge submitted a letter of no confidence in the Prime Minister. He said he made the move because of the Prime Minister's refusal to "rip up Chequers" and due to former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson's "inspirational" speech on Tuesday at the conference. Johnson, an open critic of May's Brexit plan, launched a fresh attack against the Chequers plan for trade with the EU at the conference. He described it as a "cheat" that could lead to a boost for the far-right. --IANS soni/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tata Communications, a leading global digital infrastructure provider, on Wednesday said it was acquiring Teleena, a Netherlands-based Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity specialist and mobile virtual network enabler (MVNE). This acquisition follows Tata Communications' investment in Teleena in January 2017, when the company became the single largest shareholder in Teleena with a 35 per cent stake. With the new deal, Teleena's customers will now transition to become Tata Communications' customers, and all Teleena employees will become Tata Communications' employees, Tata Communications said in a statement without disclosing the amount of the transaction. The acquisition is an investment in technology and talent to complement Tata Communications' growth strategy in the global mobility and IoT market, the company said. Teleena's technology reduces the operational complexity and cost of mobility and IoT deployments for businesses. Its solution is a key part of the Tata Communications' MOVE platform, which enables enterprises and device manufacturers to capture, move and manage information worldwide through borderless, secure and scalable connectivity. "Our vision is to create an environment where anything can be 'born connected'. Providing everyone and everything in the world with seamless connectivity globally will support businesses' digital transformation," said Anthony Bartolo, Chief Product Officer, Tata Communications. "The combination of the Tata Communications MOVE platform, and Teleena's technology and talent, will help us fulfil this vision, and accelerate our growth in the mobility and IoT market," Bartolo added. The deal gives Tata Communications full access to Teleena's technology portfolio, including its MVNE platform, its Operational Support System/Business Support System (OSS/BSS) solution, and the expertise of Teleena's mobility and IoT industry specialities. "The growth rate in the global mobility and IoT market is phenomenal: by 2021, enterprises' spending on mobility alone is set to surpass $1.7 trillion," Bartolo said. --IANS gb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Even in the face of "extraordinary pressure to assimilate with the host populations", Tibetans living in exile in India have been extremely successful in retaining their ancestral way of life, says Sudeep Basu, whose recent book "In Diasporic Lands", attempts to chart the story of Tibetan refugees and their transformation since the exodus. "The success is a result of a concerted effort on the part of the government of India and the Dharamsala administration to enable Tibetan refugees to preserve their culture and pursue economic activity against all odds," Basu, an Assistant Professor at the Centre for Studies in Social Management, Central University of Gujarat, told IANS in an interview. He contended that the creation of a series of permanent agricultural settlements throughout India in the initial years of refuge was a successful rehabilitation strategy. He also said that many Tibetans living in transit camps or working on road repair were resettled "within a period of five years" and became economically "self-sufficient". "Gradually, with greater education extended to Tibetans, many have moved out of these settlements into other occupations, exploring new possibilities among their hosts. In time, sweater-selling business, hotel business and tour operations, proved more lucrative and less time-consuming for the aspirational India-born Tibetans," he pointed out. His book is based on ethnographic fieldwork in Darjeeling and the author's findings suggest that an uncertain future has not deterred Tibetans, refugees in Darjeeling since 1959, from achieving material and non-material success. "The point of consideration for the new generation in Darjeeling town has been the prospect, desirability and extent of participation in the affairs of the homeland, besides pursuing business and work-related ventures. Through public acts of mobilisation, Tibetan diasporic communities are seen to display their loyalty to the Tibetan cause and yet not antagonise their hosts through ostentatious display of wealth. Their act of restraint and a 'non-violent' disposition creates an amiable relation with host communities. This makes life in Darjeeling more bearable for them, but to achieve this requires constant negotiation and a balancing act," he said. In the book, Basu argues that places and identities are "redefined and transformed" by refugees negotiating their "belonging in an alien country" over time. Asked how, he shared an example, pointing out that nearly all Tibetan refugees in Darjeeling town under the Foreigners Registration Act have also obtained the Registration Certificate (RC) as an emphatic proof of their Tibetanness. "The RC remains one of the most powerful unifying symbols for the Tibetan exiles. Yet Tibetan refugees in Darjeeling town continue to identify themselves or are identified by others as Indian citizens, in certain contexts. It becomes difficult to distinguish between a facade and a reality, since refugees are unwilling to disclose how they identify themselves with others. This gives off the image that refugees 'imagine' themselves as being part of the host society or producing real or fictitious forms of cosmopolitan identity," Basu said. In the book, he also talks at length about the "lived meanings" that Tibetan refugees in Darjeeling attach to their life in exile and to the spaces they live and work in. He said that their strategies of living "without feeling the constraints of otherness" are vital to leading a dignified life. "The landscape of Darjeeling into which the Tibetans moved following the exodus was relatively close by and topographically not entirely dissimilar to Tibet... The re-creation of familiar features from the lost environment as recaptured in the architectural design of houses built in and around the refugee settlement, making of thangka paintings and handicrafts, rituals of naming houses and streets with their spatial and temporal symbolism, inner decoration of refugee homes with pictures of the Potala palace and the Dalai Lama, continue to provide meaning and purpose to refugee lives," Basu maintained. But while Tibetan refugees negotiate their lives in exile, what does Tibet as a homeland stand for them now? Basu said that the continuing traffic between Tibetans, both physical and on the internet, on both sides of the Himalayas and dispersed in the diaspora has produced an increased awareness among Tibetan refugees of the inter-connectedness of places. "Forced migration and the seeming impossibility of return to one's home country have produced feelings of longing, despair and idealisation concerning Tibet and Tibetanness among Tibetans over time. The condition of protracted exile has also produced a 'virtual Tibet' through the proliferation of vibrant social media communications among lay Tibetans in Tibet and in the diaspora as well as the Tibetan government-in-exile," he said. According to the figures presented in the book (from the Tibetan Demographic Survey of 1998), 2,411 Tibetans live in Darjeeling town; 442 in Ghoom; 2,023 in Kalimpong; 447 in Kurseong; and 641 in Sonada. "In Diasporic Lands" is published by Orient Blackswan, and is priced at Rs 775. (Saket Suman can be contacted at saket.s@ians.in ) --IANS ss/vm/sac (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US President Donald Trump has ridiculed the testimony of Christine Ford, the woman who made sexual assault charges against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. At a rally in Mississippi on Tuesday, Trump cast doubts on the version of events presented by Ford under oath during testimony in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee last week, in which she described in detail the alleged sexual assault committed by Kavanaugh, CNN reported. "How did you get home? 'I don't remember'. How'd you get there? 'I don't remember'. Where is the place? 'I don't remember'. How many years ago was it?' I don't know'," Trump said, apparently mocking Ford's responses. "'What neighbourhood was it in? 'I don't know', Where's the house? 'I don't know'. Upstairs, downstairs, where I was. I don't know. But I had one beer. That's the only thing I remember," he added. The President said Ford's testimony had "shattered" Kavanaugh and his family and added that those who had supported the allegations -- an apparent reference to the Democrats -- were "evil". However, earlier Trump called Ford a "credible" and "compelling" witness. In her testimony, Ford had said that she was "100 per cent sure" that Kavanaugh had attempted to rape her in 1982 when they were teenagers. The top court nominee denies this. The allegations led to the FBI opening a probe against Kavanaugh ahead of the Senate vote to confirm or reject his nomination to the Supreme Court. According to Ford's lawyers, the Federal Bureau of Investigation didn't speak to her yet and said it was "inconceivable" that the agency may conduct a thorough investigation without interviewing her. The investigation is due to be completed by Friday. In addition to Ford, at least two other women have levelled sexual abuse charges against Kavanaugh, while some of his acquaintances have also raised doubts about the veracity of some of his sworn statements, particularly in relation to his drinking habits during his youth. --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three Turkish journalists accused of being involved in the failed 2016 coup were sentenced to life imprisonment on Wednesday by a regional court in Istanbul. The well-known journalists -- Ahmet Altan, Mehmet Altan and Nazli Ilicak -- were found guilty of attempting to destroy constitutional order in Turkey by mobilising people for the coup which took place on July 15-16, 2016. Ilhan Cihaner, a former prosecutor and ex-member of Parliament for the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), said that the court of appeal sentence was not final and that the case would be taken to the Turkish constitutional court, Efe news reported. The journalists were accused of rallying the viewers of a television programme they appeared on, on the eve of the failed revolt, and of encouraging them to get ready for the coup as well as threatening Turkish President Recep Tayip Erdogan. Ahmet Altan is a well known novelist and journalist, while his brother Mehmet is a journalist and renowned economist. Over 200 international intellectuals, including Noam Chomsky, Costas Gavras and Orhan Pamuk, signed a petition demanding that the brothers be set free. Nazli Ilicak is a high-profile TV journalist and a fierce supporter of Fethullah Gulen, an exiled cleric accused by Ankara of leading the failed revolt. --IANS soni/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Police officials in Baghpat district of western Uttar Pradesh have assured family members of a young man alleged to have been murdered that a "just probe" would be carried out into the matter, after 13 of them changed their religion to Hinduism as a protest. Additional Superintendent of Police, Rajesh Kumar Srivastava, visited the village after news emerged that 13 members of a Muslim family had converted, alleging "unfair investigation" by the police. Srivastava told IANS that he had met the family members to assure them of a "free and fair probe", which he said was still underway. "The decision to change their religion was their own and the police has nothing to do with it," he added. The family members alleged that the body of the young man, aged 22, was found in a shop on July 22 this year and that he had been murdered, although the police refused to accept this and had closed the case calling it a suicide. The 13 family members of the deceased had given affidavits to the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) of Badaut informing the district administration of their "wilful changing of religion", a district official told IANS. They also participated in a special 'havan', changing there names to Hindu ones, the official, who did not want to be named, said. All 13 are from Niwada village's Khubbipura locality. During the conversion rituals, Hindu Yuva Vahini office- bearers were present. Some family members alleged that they were forced to convert by the Vahini members. The Vahini was founded in April 2002, on Ram Navami day by Yogi Adityanath, the present chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. Village head Raj Kumar Singh and others said they will petition senior officers to get the family members of the deceased person justice. Singh said that no coercion was involved in the change of religion. The conversions have sparked off some tension in the area. --IANS md/tsb/hs/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Yemen's Shia Houthi rebels on Wednesday released two sons of slain former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, the media reported. "The sons of Ali Abdullah Saleh, Salaah and Madyan, were released upon an amnesty from the (so-called) President of the Supreme Political Council Mahdi al-Mashat (top Houthi official)," the Houthis rebels said in a statement cited by state news agency Saba. The release came nearly 10 months after the rebels arrested them along with dozens of the former President's relatives following deadly clashes in the capital that killed Saleh at the hands of Houthis. On December 4, 2017, the Houthis said they killed Saleh, their once partner, after he sought peace with Saudi Arabia, the Sunni Gulf country that led an Arab military coalition against Iranian-allied Shia Houthi rebels. A senior Houthi militia member told Xinhua news agency that the release came following a "mediation from Oman" and that the sons of Saleh would be transported by an "Omani plane to United Arab Emirates (UAE), where they would join their exiled older brother Ahmed Ali Abdullah Saleh in Abu Dhabi". Saleh's family allied with the government of Saudi-backed exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi after the former broke out from alliance with Houthis in late 2017. There were no comments from the government on the Houthi statement. Last week, the Saudi-backed internationally recognized government said that the "Houthis prevented a UN plane from landing in Sanaa on September 28 to transport sons of Saleh, according to an agreement to release them signed by the Houthis". Saleh's family members, most of whom were military commanders and ran the country's elite Republican Guards and Counter-terrorism Special Forces during his 33 years of rule, are reportedly backed by the US, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. In September 2014, the Houthis advanced from their stronghold Saada province, storming the capital and controlled it and other northern cities by force, including the Red Sea port city of Hodeidah. The move triggered Saudi Arabia to lead an Arab military coalition and launched an Air Force campaign on Yemen in March 2015 to reinstate the government of exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. The war has killed more than 10,000 Yemenis, mostly civilians, and displaced 3 million others, according to UN aid agencies. --IANS soni/sed (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) It is quite common for people from India to go and settle abroad. Indian citizens who do so for employment or carrying out a business or vacation there or for any other purpose due to which their period of stay outside India is uncertain, would be considered Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Nonetheless, many such NRIs prefer to retain the bank accounts they had held in India. This could be for easy repatriation of income made abroad to the home country. Or they might want to keep income earned in India in India itself. In such cases, one can either open a Non-Resident account or a Non ... Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati on Wednesday said her party will have no alliance with the Congress party in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh (MP) and Rajasthan. She claimed it was because of the Congress attitude that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) remained in power in MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and other states for a long time and yet the party had not mended itself. If this was not so, why did the Congress adopt a stubborn attitude and offered meagre seats to the BSP in these three states when everyone knows our vote gets transferred... We do not benefit much ... An ambitious countrywide 1,200-km walk in honour of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela has kicked off here to mark the start of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Gandhi, a revered leader both in India and South Africa. The six-man 'Gandhi@150 to Mandela@100' team plans to walk from Constitutional Hill - where both Gandhi and Mandela were once held as political prisoners when it was the Old Fort jail - to Mvezo in the Eastern Cape Province, where Mandela was born. The team is led by Nitin Sonawane, who has traversed almost every continent on his bicycle. Joining Sonawane from his home town of Pune are Yogesh Mathuria, Sangram Patil and Dilip Tambolker. "We plan to walk an average of 25-km per day until we reach our destination in Mvezo on November 30," Sonawane told PTI on Tuesday as they set off after garlanding a bust of Gandhi next to a permanent exhibition on his life at the Constitution Hill. "Along the way, we will visit schools, colleges and universities to share our views, as espoused by Gandhi and Mandela, on the importance of non-violence for a peaceful society, hence we are calling our walk the 'Peace Pilgrimage'," said Sonawane. The other members of the team are Jalandharnath Channole from the Gandhi Ashram and Japanese monk Nippozan Myohoji, who joined the team after being inspired by Sonawane during his walk through Japan. "We also intend to plant 10,000 seeds of the indigenous syringa tree along the route, which will also take in historical sites related to both great leaders in many cities and towns where they led people in opposing oppression during their times," Sonawane added. Although local people have on several occasions walked the 700-km route from Johannesburg to Durban, passing through historic Gandhian sites along the way, the current project is first of its kind as there has never been an attempt to retrace Gandhi and Mandela's steps together in this way. Meanwhile, the Indian High Commission and its Consulate in Johannesburg organised a seminar on Tuesday at the Constitution Hill, seat of the highest court in the land - the Constitutional Court, to mark the launch of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations for Gandhi. The court is on the same site which was once, in the apartheid era, a prison where both Gandhi and later Mandela were imprisoned during their resistance to discriminatory laws in South Africa. Indian Consul General K J Srinivasa told the gathering that a series of major events were being finalised across the country in consultation with the provincial governments to mark the 150th year of Gandhi's birth. Speaking on the occasion, historian Raymond Suttner said Gandhi "became a non-racialist and cooperated with all population groups." Supporting this view, veteran activist Prema Naidoo said those who accuse Gandhi of racism "should look beyond his early years, understanding these years as a necessary part of the evolution of a revolutionary to whom we should look for guidance and inspiration in the troubled world today, as his principles will lead the world away from the inequality, discrimination, violence and intolerance". "The legacies of both Gandhi and Mandela are challenged today, mainly by young people who call Mandela a sell-out and Gandhi a racist," said Shan Balton, Executive Director of the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, named after the late struggle stalwart who served 26 years in prison, one less than Mandela, as a political prisoner under apartheid. The Foundation's main aim is to fight racism and discrimination. "Both these issues need to be responded to, but unfortunately in South Africa we have shied away from this debate. We have not had public forums or intellectual engagements on these issues. We have run away from it to the point where a statue of Gandhi can be pulled down in Ghana and we remain quiet," Balton said. Balton said social media posts on the eve of Gandhi's birthday were asking why his statue is still up in the centre of Johannesburg, with some calling for its removal. "Unless there is honest and robust discussion about this, those statues will come down, with the people who bring them down not understanding the context within which the accusations that they make of Gandhi being racist are understood," Balton said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Five tourists were killed and two others rescued in an unconscious state after their car fell into a 500-foot gorge at Kalhatti, near this famous hill resort town, police said Wednesday. The mishap was suspected to have occurred Tuesday and came to light only a day later. The seven, hailing from Tuticorin, were reported missing since Tuesday afternoon after they set out on a sightseeing trip to Masinagudi, about 30 km from here, in the morning. On being alerted by the staff of the hotel, where the tourists were staying, police carried out a search and based on mobile phone signals traced the car in the gorge near a hairpin bend. Police said they found five people dead and the two others unconscious. One of the two had been hospitalised here, while the other was taken to Mysuru, they said. The victims had arrived here on September 30. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab Wednesday announced formation of a 22-member committee, comprising MLAs, two MPs and party leaders, for "independently" taking decisions in connection with state issues. "The AAP has formed a 22-member core committee. All the decisions related to Punjab be it in connection with fighting the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, shortlisting candidates for elections, holding dharnas etc will be taken by this core committee," Sangrur MP and the party's senior leader Bhagwant Mann said. The committee will be headed by Budhlada MLA Budh Ram. The committee was formed in the wake of eight dissident MLAs fighting for autonomy for the Punjab unit of the party. Mann said if any MLA from the rebel group of Sukhpal Khaira intends to become the member of the core committee, he is welcome to join the panel. The decision of forming the core committee was announced a day after AAP MLAs met party's national convener Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi. Mann said the core committee was formed earlier also but it could not function effectively. On the issue of resolving differences with Khaira and his group, he said the party has always opened doors for them to resolve issues. "This core committee can form a sub-committee to reach out to Khaira group to make peace with them," the Sangrur MP said while addressing reporters here. At the same time, Mann attacked Khaira for criticising the party's Delhi leadership and said "It is Khaira's nature to challenge the Delhi leadership." The Punjab unit of the AAP has been in turmoil following the removal of Khaira from the post of Leader of Opposition. AAP's dissident MLAs had declared the party's Punjab unit "autonomous" and "dissolved" its current organisational structure during volunteers convention in Bathinda on August 2. Mann further announced to hold a day-long hunger strike in front of Chief Minister Amarinder Singh's house here on October 7, pressing the Congress-led government to take action against former chief minister Parkash Singh Badal and his son Sukhbir Singh Badal in connection with sacrilege incidents. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Around 30 people, including 10 police personnel, were injured in violence during a 12-hour shutdown on Wednesday by an outfit to protest against the introduction of queue system for devotees in Jagannath Temple in Odisha's Puri district. The violence erupted during the dawn-to-dusk shutdown in the seaside pilgrim town called by Sri Jagannath Sena after the police picked up its convener Priyadarshan Patnaik and held him under preventive detention. The outfit had given a call for 'Puri bandh' soon after the queue system was introduced in the temple on Monday on an experimental basis. Asserting that the stir would be further intensified, Patnaik said the manner in which the new system was introduced had hurt the sentiments of a large number of devotees. Activists of Sri Jagannath Sena and the locals held a demonstration demanding the immediate release of Patnaik. They also blocked the 'Bada Danda' - the Grand Avenue facing Jagannath Temple by burning tyres in a number of places. A mob barged into the 12th century shrine, uprooted barricades erected on 'Baisi Pahacha', the 22 steps leading from the main gate to the shrine and near the 'Singhadwara' (the Lion Gate) and ransacked the office of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), police said. As the 'Bada Danda' virtually turned into a battleground, police lobbed teargas shells and resorted to lathi-charge to control the situation, they said. The police outpost and an information centre near the 'Singhadwara' and the town police station were ransacked by the unruly mob, which burnt tyres and indulged in stone pelting, a senior police official said. Around 30 people, including 10 police personnel, were injured in stone pelting by bandh supporters and subsequent police action to control the situation, police said. Many structures suffered extensive damage in the mob attack, they said, adding that the agitators pelted stones at the residence of Puri superintendent of police and local MLA and Revenue minister Maheswar Mohanty. Normal life was crippled in the holy town due to the shutdown as shops, business establishments and educational institutions remained closed. Traffic came to a halt with protesters putting up pickets and blockades at many places, police said. Later a flag march was held by the police and the force was deployed at strategic locations to bring the situation under control and restore normalcy in the pilgrim town, said Director General of Police (DGP) R P Sharma, who held a meeting to take stock of the situation. "The situation is now well under control and devotees are able to have proper darshan in the temple," he said. He added that the police is keeping a close watch on the situation. Inspector General of Police (Central Range), Soumendra Priyadarshi, who led the flag march, said the district collector will hold talks with leaders of Jagannath Sena to resolve the issue. The SJTA chief administrator will also join the process to settle the matter as soon as possible. Puri district Collector Jyoti Prakash Das said some anti-social elements indulged in violent activities during the shutdown, causing damage to government properties. The situation was brought under control quickly to prevent any further flare up, he said. An official said the queue system was introduced on an experimental basis and a review would be done as locals and servitors opposed it. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Noting that devotees' sentiments "cannot be ignored" while considering the Supreme Court verdict allowing entry of women into the Sabarimala temple, the RSS on Wednesday called upon all stakeholders to come together and address the issue availing "judicial options also". The judgement of the Supreme Court should be honoured, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) maintained. "The recent judgement on Sabarimala Devasthanam has evoked reactions all over the country. While we all respect the varied temple traditions followed by devotees in Bharat, we have to also honour the honourable Supreme Court," RSS General Secretary Suresh Bhayyaji Joshi said in a statement. On September 28, the apex court threw open the doors of Sabarimala temple in Kerala to girls and women of all age groups by lifting the ban on the entry of those between the age of 10 and 50, holding this centuries-old Hindu religious practice is illegal and unconstitutional. "While the Supreme Court judgement should be respected, RSS calls upon all the stakeholders, including spiritual and community leaders, to come together to analyse and address the issue availing judicial options also," the RSS said. Emphasising that it is an issue of a local temple tradition and faith to which sentiments of millions of devotees, including women, are attached, the RSS underlined that these sentiments of the devotees cannot be ignored while considering the judgement. "There is an obvious reaction to the same by the devotees, especially women, who are protesting against the forceful breaking of the tradition," Joshi said. The RSS, which has wide presence in the Left-ruled Kerala and has been at loggerheads with the ruling CPI(M), termed the state government's decision to implement the apex court's order with immediate effect as unfortunate. "Unfortunately, the Kerala Government has taken steps to implement the judgement with immediate effect without taking the sentiments of the devotees into consideration," Joshi said. Joshi also suggested that all stakeholders and devotees must convey their concerns on their right to worship in a manner which best suits their faith and devotion, to the authorities in a peaceful manner. Sabarimala is a prominent Hindu temple located at Pathanamthitta district in Kerala. It attracts tens of millions of pilgrims every year. The hill-top ancient temple of Lord Ayyappan remains open only for a little over four months in a year and the approach is through a forested area that involves an arduous five-km trek from the Pampa river base camp. The Ayyappa Dharma Sena president had said the organisation would file a review petition against the judgement. "Until October 16, the Sabarimala temple is closed. So, we have time." The shrine's head priest Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru had said the verdict was "disappointing", but the management accepted it. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Wednesday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was presented the UN's Champions of the Earth Award by United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres in Delhi. In an official statement here, Adityanath said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a clear vision towards environment, which is being praised across the world. It is the result of the efforts of the Prime Minister that India's identity is visible at the global stage. It was owing to his efforts that the United Nations decided to observe June 21 every year as International Yoga Day." Adityanath also said that the government's Swachch Bharat Mission has been praised by the World Health Organization. PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron were jointly awarded the UN's highest environmental honour for their pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and promoting new areas of cooperation on environmental action. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Gouribala Das, an elderly lady in urgent need of blood transfusion, lay on the floor in the Emergency OPD section at the Medical College and Hospital here, her daughter holding a saline bottle in one hand. Das, in her 70s, was among the 250-odd patients, who were hurriedly shifted out of their wards after a fire broke out at the 183-year-old state-run medical facility on Wednesday morning. She was brought in a stretcher from the main building that housed the pharmacy, where the blaze erupted around 8 am. "My mother requires urgent treatment and we are looking for a doctor," her daughter said with a baffled expression. Similar was the plight of Akhtar Hussein, 75, a brain- stroke patient, who wore a blank look on his face, even as commotion prevailed around him. Hussein was taken out by his son with the help of a hospital staff from the third floor of that building and directed to the Emergency OPD section. "He is in a severe state of trauma. None of the doctors have visited him ever since he was shifted to this place. But the nurses are attending. We hope he can be shifted to a proper place by this evening," his daughter-in-law said. One of the attending doctors said 250 patients from five departments, including medicine and cardiology and one from ICU, were accommodated in the Emergency OPD section in a "record 30-minute time". Family members of 58-year-old Debendra Chakraborty, who was admitted with dengue on Monday, said the hospital authorities could not specify when his treatment would start. However, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Chandrima Bhattacharya said, "None has been asked to leave the hospital. All the 250 patients had been shifted smoothly after the fire broke out, and are now being attended to." The Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, commonly referred to as Calcutta Medical College, is the second oldest medical college in India after Ecole de Medecine of Puducherry. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Jammu and Kashmir BJP Wednesday here expelled 15 "rebel" workers from the party for anti-party activities ahead of the local bodies polls. "It was unanimously decided to expel the workers from the primary membership of the party forthwith for having filed nomination papers against official candidates of the party for ULB and municipal polls in J&K," a BJP spokesman said. The decision was taken during a meeting of the BJP State Election Management Committee at the party office in Trikuta Nagar here, which was presided over by state president Ravinder Raina, he said. Those who were expelled from party include JatinSethi, Omkar Singh Bose, Deepak Kumar, Kulbushan Vohra, SubashSharma, Raj Kumar, Kulbir Sambyal, Trilochan Wazir, Tarsem Choudhary, Dhan Sarup, Rajinder Gupta, Sunny Segal, Anita Gupta, Balbir Gupta and Vikram Dogra, he said. Meanwhile, an election department official said around 17 lakh electors are eligible to vote in the four-phased local bodies and municipal polls in Jammu and Kashmir, beginning October 8. "As many as 16,97,291 electors are eligible to exercise their franchise in 1,145 wards across the state in four phases from October 8," he said. The first phase of polling will be undertaken on October 8, followed by the second phase on October 10, third phase on October 13 and the fourth and final phase on October 16, the official said. The counting of votes will be done on October 20, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Air Indiawill add two more direct flights connecting Kolkata with Bangkok and Jaipurfrom October 15, the national carrier said on Wednesday. The two non-stop flights, to be operated by the Airbus 320neo aircraft with two-class configuration, will fulfil a long-standing demand of passengers for a convenient connection to both Bangkok and Jaipur by the carrier from Kolkata, it said in a release. Flight AI 336 from Kolkata to Bangkok will be operated three days a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The Kolkata-Bangkok flight will depart from Kolkata at 3.50 pm (local time) and arrive in Bangkok at 8.05 pm (local time). The incoming flight AI 337 will leave Bangkok at 5.15 am (local time) and reach Kolkata at 7 am (local time). Meanwhile, flight AI 737 to Jaipur will take off from Kolkata at 8.40 am to reach Jaipur at 11.10 am. The return flight will take off from Jaipur at 12.20 pm and land in Kolkata at 3 pm - on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The flights to Bangkok and Jaipur from Kolkata were withdrawn by the airline around 10 years ago, Air India sources said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Amid opposition to some new hydrocorbon projects in Tamil Nadu, senior AIADMK leader and Lok Sabha Deputy speaker M Thambidurai Wednesday asserted the party government would not allow any industry that "affects" the people of the state. Thambidurai was reacting to questions from reporters on Vedanta Limited and state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) recently bagging hydrocarbon exploration projects reportedly in some pockets of the state. "...permission, including land, for the project has to be given by the state government. If it affects people, permission for the project will not be given by the AIADMK government," he said. As opposition DMK flayed the Centre for awarding the oil exploration contracts in Cauvery delta region, Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam had Tuesday said the government would not allow any project that 'affects' people. The main opposition DMK has announced a protest against the "fascist BJP government" for awarding the contracts. Mining mogul Anil Agarwal-led Vedanta Ltd walked away with 41 out of 55 oil and gas exploration blocks offered in Open Acreage Licensing Policy OALP-1, contracts for which were signed two days ago. Of the oil and gas exploration areas awarded under India's maiden open acreage auction, mining mogul Anil Agarwal-led Vedanta Limited has bagged 41 of the 55 blocks offered in OALP-1. The firm is at the centre of a row in Tamil Nadu, following the closure of its Sterlite Copper plant in Tuticorin over environmental concerns. Various other parties have also expressed their opposition to the projects. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) AIADMK MLA A.Anbalagan Wednesday approached the Puducherry Assembly Speaker alleging breach of his privilege as a legislator by Lt Governor Kiran Bedi, a day after she asked him to cut short his speech at a government function. In a petition submitted to Speaker V Vaithilingam, the MLA, leader of the four-member AIADMK legislature party, said Bedi 'prevented' him from speaking by asking officials to switch off the mike and 'ordered' him to leave the venue. Claiming that the Lt Governor had breached his privilege, he said appropriate action should be taken by the Speaker on the basis of his representation. The MLA had picked up an argument with Bedi after she asked him to cut short his speech at a function here Tuesday where Puducherry was declared open defecation free as he 'exceeded' the time allotted. Bedi had accused Anbalagan of being rude and claimed she had witnessed similar 'misbehaviour' by him in the past, while the MLA, who left the venue in a huff, claimed he had been insulted and slammed her, asking "is the Lt Governor a Princess in Puducherry?" Accompanied by three other AIADMK members, Anbalagan met the Speaker at his office and submitted the petition in which he said Bedi: "deliberately prevented me from going ahead with my speech at the function... preventing me from airing my views and suggestions on the implementation of the Swachch Bharat scheme in Puducherry." Anbalagan later told reporters that he was confident that the Speaker would act on his petition as it was not merely an issue pertaining to an individual legislator. "It is a question of privilege of people's representative," he added. Bedi had in a message to media said the legislator was not even scheduled to address the gathering and he compelled his way before the start of the function to be part of the speakers. "Incidentally this is not the first time this MLA has done something like this. I have witnessed similar misbehaviour from him earlier too when he was asked to respect others' time too," she had said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A day after two women and a 3-year-old girl died after falling into a well in suburban Vile Parle here, Mumbai suburban district collector on Wednesday recommended financial assistance for their families. Collector Sachin Kurve said he had sent proposal for financial aid to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Mumbai BJP general secretary Amarjeet Mishra had taken a delegation to Fadnavis, demanding that the families of the deceased by given aid. "The chief minister immediately asked the collector to send a proposal for granting assistance," said Mishra. Some women were performing puja sitting on the iron grill on the mouth of a 30-feet deep well in Vile Parle area Tuesday evening when the grill suddenly gave in and the women fell into the well. Madhvi Pandey (49), Renu Yadav (20) and a girl named Divya (3) drowned in the incident. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a bid to fortify its new-age portfolio, Bharti Airtel has acquired technology of artificial intelligence (AI) service provider AuthMe ID Services and its employees will join the company. "As part of the deal, the core team of AuthMe will join Airtel and be a part of Airtel X Labs in Bengaluru...In addition, Airtel has acquired the intellectual proprietary rights for two flagship solutions developed by AuthMe...," an Airtel release said Wednesday. The telecom company neither disclosed the scale of the deal nor the size of the team acquired. Airtel has set up Airtel X Labs to drive innovation in the areas of AI, Internet of Things, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality and "is building a world-class team for the facility", it said. The latest move will augment Airtel's initiatives to serve customers with new digital products. "We are rapidly scaling up Airtel X Labs, our digital innovation factory, and these new solutions will accelerate our journey towards rolling out intuitive digital products, particularly in vernacular languages, for our 430 million plus customers," Harmeen Mehta, Global CIO, Bharti Airtel said. The two flagship solutions of AuthMe whose intellectual proprietary rights are acquired by Airtel are Callup AI and Fintech Optical Character Recognition. While Callup has created a chat and voice assistant using power of AI to resolve customer queries over e-mail, chat and phone calls, Fintech Optical is designed for processing KYC documents, bank/credit card/loan statements, among others. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pointing that there has been a rise in racism and crimes against South Asian Americans since the November 2016 election of President Donald Trump, first Indian-origin US Senator Kamala Harris has called on Americans to stand united and speak the truth to deal with these issues. Speaking at a gala organised by Pratham, one of India's largest non-governmental education organisations, here last week, Harris made a strong call to Americans to stay united and fight collectively at a time when there are powerful voices that are "sowing hate and division among us." Making a reference to the white nationalist rally that turned deadly in Charlottesville, Virginia, last year, Harris said, "Let's speak truth if Charlottesville didn't make it clear, if the statistics that we are familiar with don't make it clear (that) racism, sexism, homophobia, anti-semitism are real in this country, let's speak that truth so that we can deal with it." She said there is a need to speak the truth that "right now in the US, crimes against South Asian Americans since the election in the November of 2016 have increased by 45 per cent. Let's speak that truth so we can deal with it, the California Senator saidHarris, whose mother is Indian and father Jamaican, said that African Americans are still the number one target for hate crimes in the US. Rejecting the premise that Americans are divided, Harris said she believes the vast majority of us have so much more in common than what separates us. Now is the time more than ever to hold on to that as a fact. She said Americans have to, in a collective voice, speak the truth that ripping children from the arms of their parents is not about border security and that education is a human right that is a critical path to success. "This is our collective fight, all of us as Americans have a stake in this fight and in the outcome. We are all in this together. I believe this is a collective fight when we know that one in five Indian-Americans has experienced discrimination in the workplace, she said. Harris shared memories of her visits to India during her childhood and the profound influence her grandfather had on her, shaping her beliefs about democracy and freedom. Recalling trips to India during Diwali, Harris spoke about the festival's underlying message of bringing light where there is darkness. "Years from now, when our children and grandchildren ask us where were you at that inflection moment in history, our answer will be what we did to participate, to give back, give forward, to bring lightness where there may be darkness, she said. Over USD 3.6 million were raised for the organisation's various education programmes during the Pratham Gala, attended by more than 600 prominent business and community leaders. Pratham CEO Rukmini Banerji described the organisation's plans to bring communities across India together through its Hamara Gaon (our village) initiative. From California to the beaches in Chennai...to the hospital in Chandigarh...to the work we do...we truly are connected, she said. If you don't have a community which is strong, it will be very difficult to build long-term foundations of both productivity and equity. Established in the slums of Mumbai in 1995, Pratham has changed the lives of more than 58 million underprivileged children in the past two decades. To achieve its mission of "every child in school and learning well," Pratham develops practical solutions to address gaps in the education system and works in collaboration with India's governments, communities, educators, and industry to increase learning outcomes and influence education policy. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) : Veteran Telugu Desam Party leader, educationist and member of Andhra Pradesh Legislative Council M V V S Murthy died in a road accident in the USA, the party announced here Wednesday. He was 76. He also served as a member of Lok Sabha from Visakhapatnam for two terms from 1991 to 1996 and 1999 to 2004. Murthy and three others were killed in a car-truck collision on the highway near Alaska in the US, where he had gone to take part in the GITAM Alumni meet on October 6. The MLC was on his way to a wildlife sanctuary when the accident occurred on Monday afternoon (US time). Telugu Association of North America members are coordinating with the US authorities to bring the TDP leader's body back to the state. Murthy had been an active leader of the TDP since 1983 and had a close association with the party's founder-president N T Rama Rao. He founded the Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (GITAM) at Rushikonda near Visakhapatnam, which has now been granted a "deemed to-be university" status with campuses in Hyderabad and Bengaluru. He served as Chairman of Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority from 1987 to 1989 and lost the 1989 Lok Sabha election. In 1991, he was elected to Parliament from Visakhapatnam for the first time and again in 1999. A doctorate in economics from Andhra University, Murthy established many colleges in his native East Godavari and other districts. He also owned a soft drinks bottling plant in Visakhapatnam and became popular as 'Goldspot' Murthy. He was elected to the Legislative Council in 2014 from the Visakhapatnam Local Authorities constituency. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, his deputies K E Krishna Murthy, N China Rajappa, Council Chairman N Md Farook, Assembly Speaker Kodela Sivaprasada Rao, ministers and MPs condoled Murthy's death. "I was shocked to learn about the death of Murthy. His services as an MP and an MLC are memorable. His death is a deep loss to the field of education and also politics. It is a personal loss to me," Naidu said in a message. He also expressed anguish over the death of many TDP leaders in road accidents. Deputy Chief Minister Krishna Murthy recalled that he and Murthy were elected to the Lok Sabha for the first time in 1991. "I lost a good friend," he said. Ministers Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, K K Venkata Rao, Kalava Srinivasulu, Sidda Raghava Rao, N Lokesh, MPs Kesineni Srinivas, Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar, MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, former MP C Ramachandraiah and several others condoled 'GITAM' Murthys death. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Apollo Tyres said Wednesday its board will seek shareholders' guidance and independent counsel regarding the compensation for its Managing Director Neeraj Kanwar, whose reappointment was rejected by shareholders last month. The company's board which met on October 1, however, expressed "unanimous approval" for his leadership. "The board will now seek shareholder guidance and independent counsel, on a compensation level commensurate with the position. Once this process is complete, it will re-nominate Kanwar to be reappointed as MD, effective May 28, 2019," an Apollo Tyres spokesperson said in a statement. Last month, minority shareholders of the company rejected the reappointment of Kanwar as MD. Kanwar is also the vice-chairman of Apollo Tyres. In 2017-18 Kanwar received Rs 44.64 crore as compensation, up from Rs 30.89 crore in 2016-17. The resolution for "reappointment of Kanwar- as MD" was not passed as a Special Resolution as the votes cast in favour (72.72 per cent) of the resolution were less than three times the number of votes cast against (27.28 per cent) the resolution, a regulatory filing by Apollo Tyres said last month. The company said it board reiterated its approval on Kanwar's leadership. Kanwar has spearheaded Apollo Tyres' growth in India, taken the brand onto the world stage, and grown its market capitalisation around 700 per cent since his appointment as the MD, the spokesperson said. "The board has full confidence in Kanwar to continue Apollo's sustainable development and expansion," the spokesperson added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Scottish Highland distillery Glenmorangie last month hosted a single malt whisky tasting in Nairobi. The event was held at Kiza Cigar Lounge, and aimed at creating an exceptional immersion to Glenmorangies elegant refinement. Speaking at the event, Alexandre Helaine, Market Manager Moet Hennessy noted that We are pleased with the uptake of Glenmorangie in Kenya. Glenmorangie has the tallest stills in Scotland, thereby producing one of the smoothest Single Malt in the world. This appeals to discerning drinkers who recognise and appreciate the best things in life. Also in attendance were CEO Soundset Africa Creative Limited Tim Adeka, Ali Oumarou CEO Kiza Lounge & Restaurant, business writer Seth Onyango, among others. Glenmorangie was founded by William Matheson in 1843. Today, it is distilled in the tallest stills in Scotland, standing at a dizzying 5.24 metres. This ensures that only the lightest and purest vapours condense into the spirit, which is then matured in Missouri White Oak casks for at least 10 years. The trees making the casks are themselves 100 years old. All this attention to detail imparts a colour and a creamy smoothness of flavour that is pure perfection. A 42-year-old accredited social health activist (ASHA) Wednesday fell from a tower she had climbed upon in protest for various demands including hike in honorarium, the police said. The surveillance tower is located near the residence of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan here. Two policewomen, who were bringing down the activist Mamta Rajawat from the tower, also fell along with her apparently after losing balance, the police said. Additional Superintendent of Police Neeraj Soni said Rajawat sustained injuries close to her eyes and to legs. "She was admitted to hospital, where her condition is stated to be out of danger," he said. Some ASHA activists have been protesting near the residence of Chouhan since Tuesday for their demands, including better pay and regularisation of jobs, since Tuesday. The incident occurred when Rajawat climbed the tower located near Polytechnic Chowk, police said. State unit Congress president Kamal Nath has criticised the chief minister for not meeting the protesting activists. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Six youths of an alleged auto-lifting gang have been arrested in Uttar Pradesh's Amethi district, police said on Wednesday. The six accused, all between 21-28 years, were allegedly involved in stealing a car near Musafirkhana town on Tuesday, a police officer said. Police also recovered a car that was looted two days back in Sultanpur, a motorcycle and a country-made pistol from their possession, the officer added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bangladesh's top anti-corruption agency said Wednesday it would investigate into alleged corruption charges against former top judge Surendra Kumar Sinha - the first Hindu Chief Justice of the country - as a court referred a case against him to the independent statutory body. Sinha, 67, has alleged that he was forced to resign because he opposed the "undemocratic" and "authoritarian" regime. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government has refuted Sinha's allegations and charged him with corruption. He now lives in the US where he is said to have sought asylum. "Investigations will be launched into the allegation as the case (against Sinha) was referred to us," Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Iqbal Mahmud told a media briefing here, days after renegade BNP leader and former minister Nazmul Huda filed a case alleging that Sinha had demanded bribes from him. Mahmud said the ACC would analyse as well if the matter was within its purview "but since a court referred it to us, it could be assumed 'something is there' which needed our involvement". Huda, whose NDA party is now a ruling Awami League ally, alleged that Sinha had demanded from him an amount of Taka 3.25 crore (USD 386,904) for delivering judgment in a case in his favour while he was the chief justice. The case against Sinha came days after his newly launched autobiography brought him in political spotlight a year after he was forced to quit amid a row with the government. The ACC chief said if required the graft commission investigators would quiz Sinha and bring him back but "interrogation is not a mandatory provision for investigations". Mahmud said the ACC would also investigate into money laundering allegations involving Sinha's younger brother, who too now is in the US. In his autobiography 'A Broken Dream: Rule of Law, Human Rights and Democracy', Sinha said he was forced to resign last year following intimidation and threats, drawing a sharp reaction from Prime Minister Hasina who accused some anti-government newspapers of backing him. At the launch of his book in Washington this week, Sinha urged India to support the rule of law and democracy in Bangladesh, saying the Indian government should not ignore the peoples' will by backing the "autocratic" Awami League-led government. Sinha said that he was forced to resign because he had opposed the "undemocratic" and "authoritarian" regime. In his book, Sinha described in detail the circumstances under which he had to leave the country and resign as the Chief Justice of Bangladesh. Prime Minister Hasina has hinted certain quarters were backing Sinha with particular motive as he launched his autobiography a year after being forced to resign amid a row with her government. "Please unveil who gives money for launching the book, the state-run BSS quoted Hasina telling a press conference in New York recently where she joined the annual UN General Assembly session. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bangladesh on Wednesday abolished a controversial quota system for civil service jobs that had been the target of major street protests that paralysed parts of the country earlier this year. The cabinet announced the end of the decades-long policy that reserved more than half of all government jobs for the offspring of veterans from Bangladesh's war of independence and disadvantaged ethnic minorities. Cabinet secretary Mohammad Shafiul Alam said quotas set aside for top-tier public service positions would be scrapped entirely, but some reservations for lower-level positions would remain. Recruitment for the most sought-after jobs would be determined by examination only, he said, adding a government decree to that effect would be issued later in the week. The contentious quota scheme was the subject of enormous rallies in April that brought Bangladesh, a Muslim-majority democracy of 160 million, to a standstill and saw more than 100 injured. Tens of thousands of students demanded reforms of rules granting almost one-third of highly sought-after government jobs to the descendants of veterans of the 1971 war. Protesters also wanted to reduce the quota for ethnic minorities to 10 percent of government jobs. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, whose father led Bangladesh's push for independence from Pakistan, had long refused to amend the system. There was no immediate response to the government's announcement from protest leaders, some of whom were detained in a sweeping crackdown in recent months by Bangladesh's security forces. Human rights groups have warned Hasina's administration is clamping down on dissent in the lead up to elections in December. Her main opponent, Khaleda Zia, was jailed on corruption charges in February. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Several youth leaders including a "prominent" BJP activist joined the Congress Wednesday in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, a state Congress leader said. BJP's state media coordinator Sheikh Imran from Gugara joined the party along with other "prominent" youth leaders in the presence of state Congress vice president and MLA G M Saroori, he said. He said the new entrants reposed their faith in the Congress' programmes and policies, saying it alone can safeguard articles 370 and 35-A of the Constitution and ensure equitable development of the state's three regions. Welcoming them to the party fold, Saroori said, "The Congress has always provided a vibrant platform to youths to play their designated role in the state polity and help in shaping its politico-economic destiny". Describing the joining of the BJP state media coordinator as a "vindication of the Congress' pro-people policies, he said the time has come to unite and defeat communal forces which are befooling the poor with false slogans. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party, a key ally in Goa's ruling BJP-led coalition, on Wednesday dismissed questions over the stability of Manohar Parrikar government but expressed readiness to face mid-term polls in case the Assembly is dissolved. MGP leader and PWD Minister Sudin Dhavalikar, whose party has three seats in the 40-member Assembly, said there won't be any change in leadership in the state. Questions over the stability of the government have been raised by the Opposition Congress because of Parrikar's illness. The CM is currently undergoing treatment at AIIMS in Delhi for a pancreatic ailment. The Congress has, in fact, demanded that the government should have vote of confidence in the Assembly to prove its majority. The BJP, which has 14 MLAs, is ruling the state with the help of MGP, the Goa Forward Party (GFP), NCP and three Independents. GFP has three seats and NCP has one. "There is nothing wrong in the current political situation of Goa. The CM is not here because he is unwell. There won't be any change in leadership in Goa. We want Manohar Parrikar to be our leader and till the time he can work for the people of Goa, he will be continue to be our leader," Dhavalikar told reporters here. He ruled out replacement of the chief minister. The minister said the government would continue in office till people want. "Elections would be imminent if the people doesn't want the government to continue," he said. At the same time, he added, "The MGP is ready to face mid-term assembly elections in case of dissolution" of the Assembly. The minister said his party will not be affected whether the assembly is dissolved or not. "But, the people got us elected for the tenure of five years (in 2017) and we want to complete our term," he said. The opposition Congress, which has 16 MLAs in the House of 40, had demanded a floor test claiming that all is not well among the allies of the BJP in view of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's absence from office due to ill health. "...Anything can happen in Even a group of ten legislators can switch over to another party. We had seen it in a state where an entire group of Congress MLAs, including chief minister, had shifted to the BJP overnight," Dhavlikar said. He said the CM would allot additional portfolios to ministers after October 9. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Senior BJP leader from Telangana Kasam Venkateswarlu was appointed non-official independent director on the board of Airports Authority of India (AAI) Ltd Wednesday, an order issued by the Personnel Ministry stated. Venkateswarlu, at present vice-president of the Telangana BJP, has been appointed to the post for three years, it said. Senior party member Balraj Nune, who is central and state coordinator of Telangana BJP, confirmed to PTI Venkateswarlu's appointment on the AAI board. It is not for the first time that a BJP leader has been appointed on the board of a central public sector undertaking. In the past, some of the party's leaders including Syed Zafar Islam and Shazia Ilmi have been given such postings. Islam, a national spokesperson of the party, was last year appointed non-official independent director of Air India for three years. Ilmi, a former leader of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party, was in January appointed independent director in Engineers India Ltd. At present, she is the vice-president of the BJP's Delhi unit. The saffron party's member from Gujarat, Asifa Khan, had also been made non-official independent director of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. Existing norms by the Securities and Exchange Board of India mandate companies to have at least 50 per cent of directors as non-executive or independent directors with at least one woman director. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Bharatiya Janata Party would fight all the 40 assembly seats in Mizoram alone, but the party might forge an alliance with like-minded parties in a post-poll scenario, general secretary Ram Madhav said on Wednesday. Mizoram is the only state under the Congress in the Northeast at present. The saffron party has been making concerted efforts to win the state, after having formed governments on its own or joining hands with allies in all other Northeastern states. Addressing a press conference here, Madhav, who is in charge of the Northeast, said the BJP would field candidates in all the 40 assembly seats in the state, where elections are due in December. In the 2013 assembly poll, the Congress had won 34 seats and made Lal Thanhawala the chief minister, while the BJP has no MLA at present. On the Opposition calling the Mizo National Front (MNF) "proxy" of the BJP, the general secretary termed it "ridiculous". The party would contest against the MNF and the National People's Party in the polls, though they are constituents of North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), Madhav said. The NEDA is a political coalition formed in 2016 by the BJP, along with Northeast regional parties like Naga People's Front, Sikkim Democratic Front, People's Party of Arunachal, Asom Gana Parishad and Bodoland People's Front. Madhav asserted that the BJP "respected" the food habits, distinct cultural and customs of the Mizos and their religion. He accused the ruling Congress, headed by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla -- in power for 10 years -- of being corrupt and inefficient. The Thanhawla regime did not create any basic infrastructural development during the last decade, though the Centre initiated and funded several developmental projects, the BJP leader said. If voted to power, the BJP would construct a four-lane highway across the state, linking both Myanmar and Bangladesh, Madhav said. The proposed highway would ensure access to the international market and open the east-west corridor for trade. He added that engineering colleges would be established at Lunglei and Champhai districts if the saffron party wins. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bharatiya Janata Party general secretary Ram Madhav said on Wednesday that the party would fight alone in the Mizoram assembly election, but might forge an alliance with like-minded parties. Addressing a press conference here, Madhav, who is in charge of the Northeast, said the BJP would field candidates in all the 40 assembly seats if possible. On the Opposition calling Mizo National Front (MNF) "proxy" of the BJP, the general secretary termed it "ridiculous". The party would contest against the MNF and the National People's Party in the polls, though they are constituents of North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA). NEDA is a political coalition formed in 2016 by the BJP, along with regional political parties of the northeast like Naga People's Front, Sikkim Democratic Front, People's Party of Arunachal, Asom Gana Parishad and Bodoland People's Front. He asserted that the BJP "respected" the food habits, distinct cultural and customs of the Mizos and their religion. Madhav accused the ruling Congress, headed by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla -- in power for 10 years -- of being corrupt and inefficient. The Thanhawla regime did not create any basic infrastructure development during the last decade, though the Centre initiated several developmental projects and funding the projects, the BJP leader said. If voted to power, the BJP would construct a four-lane highway across the state, linking both Myanmar and Bangladesh, Madhav said. The proposed highway would ensure access to the international market and open the east-west corridor for trade. He added that engineering colleges would be established at Lunglei and Champhai districts if the saffron party wins. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The country's leading bourse Wednesday said it has entered into a licensing agreement with the (LME), a move that will facilitate closer cooperation in areas such as product development, training and sharing of market resources. The LME is the world centre for the trading of industrial metals the majority of all non-ferrous metal futures business is transacted on LME platforms. The agreement will facilitate closer cooperation in areas such as product development, training and the sharing of market resources, said in a statement. The licensing agreement will also allow to use the prices of LME's base metals contracts to price its proposed base metals futures contract, it added. "The agreement will enable a better understanding of the market dynamics of the base metals industry in India. It will integrate the Indian market with the global market more effectively and foster world-class best practices in commodity derivative market. "It will enable us to work together towards our mutual interests, enhance business opportunities, extend global reach and will gradually result in benefits for our customer base and also help in bringing exciting products to the Indian marketplace," BSE MD and CEO Ashishkumar Chauhan said. regulator on December 28 last year announced that from October 1, 2018, the country would have a unified exchange regime wherein stock exchanges would be allowed to offer trading in commodities derivatives. The BSE has begun trading in commodity derivatives from October 1 with non-agriculture commodities like metals initially, followed by agri commodities subsequently. New details about Kenyas Man of the hour Joseph Kuria Irungu, popularly known as Jowie, have emerged from some of the teachers who interacted with the murder suspect. The 28-year-old, who is suspected of killing Monica Kimani, at one point in his education studied at Langalanga Secondary, in Nakuru. He only spent one year at the day school and it is still unclear if he completed his high school education. According to the admission book in the school, Mr Irungu joined Form One in 2006 and left in 2007. He did not write his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Examination (KCSE) at Langalanga, a teacher who did not want to go on record told Nation. Teachers at Langalanga said they were unable to trace his whereabouts after he left the school in 2007. We were unable to establish whether he continued with his secondary school education or he dropped out after he left Langalanga Secondary School in 2006, said a teacher at the school. She said it was difficult to ascertain Jospeh Irungus character and behaviour since he only stayed for one year. Form Ones are cheeky and it takes time to learn their true characters and in his case it was tricky as he left after one year. The teacher said Irungus Form One admission documents indicate that he had been a pupil at Carol Academy in Racetrack estate, where he sat his Kenya Certificate of Primary Examination (KCPE) in 2005. He joined Carol Academy at Class Five. Teachers in school were surprised to see his photograph in the newspaper as a murder suspect, a teacher at Carol Academy said. She added that Joseph Jowie Irungu was a good pupil and an entertainer during the school extra-curricular activities. He was one of the schools best entertainers. How he changed his character and behaviour is still a mystery to most of the teachers who handled him, said the teacher. Irungus home in Lanet on the outskirts of Nakuru town is tucked between Kiratina estate and Lanet Baracks. He is the second-born in a family of two boys and two girls. Joseph Irungu was a founder member of a church choir called Agape Stormers, a band that entertained people in Naivasha and Nakuru towns. He attended Agape Church situated in Pangani estate off the busy Kanu Street in Nakuru. Power discom BSES has claimed its teams inspecting high-theft areas in Delhi are coming under increasing number of attacks by residents, and said they have become a "major job hazard" for its staff. Last week two such attacks were reported from Najafgarh and Yamuna Vihar. A staff member's eardrum was damaged in a violent attack by locals resisting a raid by a team in Yamuna Vihar, said a BSES spokesperson. In Kharkhari village of Najafgarh, where losses due to power theft are as high as 60 per cent, a team, which included women members, came under attack by a group of people last week, he said. Another team was "brutally manhandled" in Chouhan Banger of Yamuna Vihar, where power theft accounted for 40 per cent losses, in which one person sustained internal ear injury, he said. Two persons were arrested in connection with the incident. "Attack on BSES inspection teams by power-thieves and miscreants is a major job hazard that discom officials face," he said. Abhimanyu Singh, a 32-year-old BSES engineer, died in July last year when his car hit a tree after being chased by locals during a raid in Jafarpur Kalan in southwest Delhi. The BSES spokesperson said a "habitual offender" has been caught by police in connection with power theft. The accused, Makhdoom, was arrested after a non-bailable warrant was issued against him by a special electricity court, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BSP chief Mayawati on Wednesday announced her party will not forge an alliance with the Congress "at any cost" for the upcoming Assembly polls in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, dealing a blow to the opposition's efforts to stitch a united front against the ruling BJP ahead of 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Blaming the Congress for what she called its "arrogance" and "stubborn attitude", the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister also said even though Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi appeared in favour of an alliance, there were other "senior leaders" who worked to foil any possibility of an understanding. Mayawati alleged the Congress had not mended itself and like the BJP betrayed her party. Apparently stunned by Mayawati's announcement, the Congress hoped the BSP chief reposing her faith in Rahul and Sonia Gandhi will provide it a window of opportunity and "creases will be ironed out" with harmony. "The Congress is under the wrong impression that it can match all the tactics of BJP...If the BJP faces just the Congress, it can easily form the government. Still the Congress does not seem prepared for an honest alliance between opposition parties," Mayawati said in a statement circulated by the Bahujan Samaj Party(BSP). The BSP chief claimed that the people of the three states going to polls later this year were not in favour of the BJP returning to power but due to the Congress' "stubborn attitude", her party had to strike an alliance with a regional party in Chhattisgarh. Mayawati has announced an alliance with former chief minister Ajit Jogi's outfit in Chhattisgarh. Jogi was earlier with the Congress. "Now, the BSP has decided to go it alone in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. We will not fight the elections with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan at any cost," Mayawati said. Mayawati claimed the attitude of the Congress showed it was not serious to stop the BJP from coming back to power and was "more interested in finishing the BSP movement and harming the party". Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said Mayawati has expressed her sentiments and the party respects that. "She has reposed full faith in Rahul ji and Sonia ji and we respect that too. If there is harmony among Sonia Gandhi, who is our guide, and Rahul Gandhi, who is our leader, and Mayawati ji, then no fourth person can create a rift among them." "If there are any creases left, they will be ironed out mutually among them with harmony," he told reporters in Delhi. Surjewala also said once the leaders have amicable, respectable, fruitful relationship with each other, "all other creases can be ironed out." To a question on whether the Congress still has hope left in an alliance with the BSP, he said the BSP leader has expressed mutual respect and confidence towards the Congress president as also Sonia Gandhi. "I think that is the most important rather than reading multiple meanings in the statement of Mayawati ji." In her statement, Mayawati claimed it was because of the Congress' attitude that BJP remained in power in MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and other states for a long time and yet the party had not mended itself. "If this was not so, why did the Congress adopt a stubborn attitude and offered meagre seats to the BSP in these three states when everyone knows our vote gets transferred...We do not benefit much from alliances," she said referring to past instances. Mayawati claimed the BSP had always supported the Congress to check the communal parties. But instead of feeling indebted to the BSP leadership, Congress like the BJP, betrayed us, she said adding "there are a number of examples and the Taj Corridor issue is one such case". Mayawati said that though Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi wanted an alliance with the BSP, there were some "selfish senior" leaders in their party who were out to foil any understanding. Congress leaders like Digvijay Singh do not wish for a Congress-BSP alliance, she claimed. "A selfish senior leader, who is also a BJP agent, in his TV interview talking about the alliance claimed the BSP president was under pressure of ED and CBI to deter her from entering into an alliance. But this is totally baseless," Mayawati asserted. "The Congress party's 'arrogance' is now evident and they feel that they can take on the BJP on their own. The truth is that the people are unwilling to forgive the Congress for their corrupt government," she added. Digvijaya Singh said he has already made it clear that he respects Mayawati and has been in favour of Congress-BSP alliance from the very beginning and talks between the two parties have already been held. The BJP took a swipe at the Congress after Mayawati's announcement with its leader and union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad saying forging a coalition was not in its DNA and it only gives importance to the Gandhi family. "With whom the Congress allies is entirely their business, but in light of concerns and pain of Mayawati, I can only say that coalition is not a part of the Congress DNA. They only give importance to the family," Prasad told reporters in Delhi. BJP general secretary Ram Madhav also took a dig at the opposition over its unity efforts. "Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) in 'progress'. First AAP and now BSP calling the bluff. Mayawati says Congress arrogant, a new revelation for her, and declares no alliance in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan too. Chhattisgarh already dumped," he tweeted. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Bharatiya Janata Party took a swipe at the Congress Wednesday after BSP supremo Mayawati called off alliance talks with the opposition party, with its leader Ravi Shankar Prasad saying forging a coalition was not in its DNA and it only gives importance to the Gandhi family. "With whom the Congress allies is entirely their business, but in light of concerns and pain of Mayawati, I can only say that coalition is not a part of the Congress DNA. They only give importance to the family," Prasad told reporters. The Bahujan Samaj Party leader has said her party will contest assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh either on its own or in alliance with regional parties but not with the Congress. She accused the Congress of trying to "finish" the BSP, saying the grand old party was more interested in destroying her party than dislodging the BJP. BJP general secretary Ram Madhav also took a dig at the opposition over its unity efforts. "Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) in 'progress'. First AAP and now BSP calling the bluff. Mayawati says Congress arrogant, a new revelation for her, and declares no alliance in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan too. Chhattisgarh already dumped," he tweeted. Mayawati has announced that the BSP will tie up with Ajit Jogi's party for Chhattisgarh assembly polls. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A lawyer representing the farmers who are opposing land acquisition for Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet train claimed Wednesday that the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has agreed to meet them. On September 18, 1,000 farmers from Gujarat had written to the JICA, the funding agency, and requested it to form a team to hear the project-affected farmers. They were staring at "involuntary displacement" due to land acquisition "which is against the JICA guidelines for funding of such projects," said advocate Anand Yagnik, farmers' lawyer. "The JICA today formally acknowledged in a written comunication that it has received the petition, and stated that soon it will arrange a meeting between JICA officials and farmers," he said. The farmers had earlier said they were considering approaching courts in Japan against JICA, Yagnik said. The farmers had also written to Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on the issue. Meanwhile, as many as 47 farmers have filed fresh petitions in the Gujarat High Court, joining the litigation challenging the land acquisition process for the project. The petitions will come up for hearing Thursday. JICA, a Japanese governmental agency, has provided a soft loan of Rs 88,000 crore for the 508-km bullet train project. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Union Cabinet Wednesday gave an ex-post facto approval to the second protocol amending the free trade agreement between India and Singapore. The free trade agreement, officially dubbed as Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), between the two countries came into force in August 2005. "Signing of the second protocol will enhance bilateral trade and will deepen the Economic Cooperation between India and Singapore. It will also improve utilisation of CECA," an official statement said. The decision was taken by the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi here. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Calcutta High Court Wednesday directed the West Bengal Board of Primary to grant full marks to petitioner examinees who had given correct answers as per an expert committee report for seven questions for teachers recruitment test. Justice Samapti Chatterjee directed that the numbers for the seven questions will be added to the results of the petitioners who had moved the court alleging irregularities in the answers given for these by the board and had given correct answers. Nearly 500 examinees had moved the high court claiming that the answers that the board had said were correct for the seven questions out of the options given were wrong. On petitions filed by the examinees, the high court had asked the vice-chancellor of the Visva-Bharati University to form an expert panel to find out whether the answers were correct or not. A report placed by the VB vice-chancellor before the high court said that the option stated to be correct by the board for six multiple choice questions were partly correct and for one was totally incorrect. Justice Chatterjee directed that those petitioners who had given correct answers as per the expert panel's report will be given full marks for the said questions and their candidature would be considered accordingly by the board. The TET examination was held in October 2015 for the post of 40,000 primary teachers in West Bengal, for which several lakh candidates appeared. Justice Chatterjee said that the order would be applicable to only those who moved the high court. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) State-owned Central of India, one of the key shareholders of debt-ridden Ltd, is unlikely to participate in the proposed Rs 45 billion rights issue of the company, according to sources. of India had 7.67 per cent stake in at the end of March 2018. The is already saddled with huge non-performing assets and it has been dependent on capital support from the government, sources said. To meet regulatory capital norms, the government infused Rs 3.23 billion capital in the bank in the last fiscal. Besides, it is expected to get more during the current fiscal. would have to shell out Rs 3.45 billion to maintain 7.67 per cent stake in IL&FS group is facing serious liquidity crisis and has defaulted on interest payment on various debt repayments since August 27. It has over Rs 910 billion in debt at the consolidated level. The company needs an immediate capital infusion of Rs 30 billion and is planning a Rs 45 billion rights issue. Financials of are also not up to the par. For the first quarter ended June, 2018, the net loss widened by 74 per cent to Rs 15.22 billion due to a more than two-fold spike in provisions for bad loans. It had posted losses of Rs 51.05 billion for 2017-18. LIC is the largest shareholder in IL&FS with 25.34 per cent stake. Besides, Japan's Orix Corporation has 23.54 per cent stake in the company. Other shareholders include (12.5 per cent stake), IL&FS Employees Welfare Trust (12 per cent), HDFC (9.02 per cent) and SBI (6.42 per cent). In a rare move, the government superseded the board of IL&FS on Monday against the backdrop of debt defaults by some of its group entities that triggered fears of liquidity crunch. High above Yemen's rebel-held city of Hodeida, a drone controlled by Emirati forces hovered as an SUV carrying a top Shiite Houthi rebel official turned onto a small street and stopped, waiting for another vehicle in its convoy to catch up. Seconds later, the SUV exploded in flames, killing Saleh al-Samad, a top political figure. The drone that fired that missile in April was not one of the many American aircraft that have been buzzing across the skies of Yemen, Iraq and Afghanistan since Sept. 11, 2001. It was Chinese. Across the Middle East, countries locked out of purchasing U.S.-made drones due to rules over excessive civilian casualties are being wooed by Chinese arms dealers, who are world's main distributor of armed drones. "The Chinese product now doesn't lack technology, it only lacks market share," said Song Zhongping, a Chinese military analyst and former lecturer at the People's Liberation Army Rocket Force University of Engineering. "And the United States restricting its arms exports is precisely what gives China a great opportunity." The sales are helping expand Chinese influence across a region vital to American security interests. "It's a hedging strategy and the Chinese will look to benefit from that," said Douglas Barrie, an airpower specialist at the International Institute for Strategic Studies. "I think the Chinese are far less liable to be swayed by concerns over civilian casualties," he said. At the start of the year, a satellite passing over southern Saudi Arabia photographed U.S.-made surveillance drones at an airfield, alongside Chinese-manufactured armed ones. According to the Center for the Study of the Drone at New York's Bard College, that was the first documented example of the two drone systems being used in the war in Yemen. The country has emerged as a "sort of a testing ground for these strike-capable drones," said Dan Gettinger, the co-director of the Center for the Study of the Drone. "There's a rapid turnaround from delivery to deployment." US drones were first used in Yemen to kill suspected al-Qaida militants in 2002. One of the biggest Chinese exports is the Cai-Hong, or Rainbow, series made by the state-owned China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp., or CASC, the largest contractor for the Chinese space program. CASC's CH-4 and CH-5 models are on a par with San Diego-based General Atomics' Predator and Reaper drones, and much cheaper. Independent analysts say the Chinese models lag behind their American counterparts but the technology is good enough to justify the price tag, which might be half or less. A CASC executive, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to journalists, said cutting-edge U.S. models like Boeing Co.'s Stingray, introduced this year for the U.S. Navy, still hold a technological advantage. And while price is an advantage, so too is a more relaxed attitude toward how drones are used, said Ulrike Franke, an expert on drones and policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations Since 2014, China has sold more than 30 CH-4's to countries including Saudi Arabia and Iraq in deals worth over $700 million, according to CASC. Ten countries are currently in negotiations to purchase the CH-4, according to the firm. Last year, China sold to the UAE the Wing Loong II, an armed unmanned aerial vehicle roughly equivalent to the American MQ-9 Reaper. "In recent years, all types of drones have proven their value and importance through a high degree of use in warfare, and the military has noticed," said the top CASC executive. "Many countries are now speeding up the development for these weapons systems, including China." During President Xi Jinping's five years in power, China has stepped up spending on stealth fighters and aircraft carriers for its own military, while boosting sales of advanced equipment such as attack submarines to close allies like Pakistan. China still lags behind the U.S., Russia, France, and Germany in total arms sales but it's catching up. Chinese arms exports rose by 38 percent between 2008-12 and 2013-17, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, which tracks the global arms trade. Mounting criticism over the rising civilian death toll in Yemen prompted the US to impose restrictions on drone sales, forcing foreign countries to go through the US government to buy armed drones, including those with laser-guidance systems. The Washington-based New America Foundation estimates more than 240 drone strikes in Yemen have killed more than 1,300 people, including at least 111 civilians. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The West Bengal Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has taken over the probe into Tuesday's explosion in Nagerbazar area of the city that left a boy dead and nine others injured, an official of the agency said Wednesday. The Barrackpore Police has already registered a suo motu case against unknown persons in connection with the case. "We have taken over the investigations into the Dum Dum Nagerbazar explosion case. Our officers will soon reach the spot to carry out the probe," DIG, CID (Operations) Nishant Pervez told PTI. Samples have been collected from the spot and forensic tests are being conducted to ascertain what type of material was used in the blast in Nagerbazar. An officer of the Barrackpore Police Commissionerate told PTI, "We have started a suo motu case against unknown persons in this case. Strict action will be taken as per law against those found guilty." "CCTV footage from neighbouring shops as well as those from the traffic police are being checked. Locals of the neighbourhood have also been asked to come over for a round of questioning for our probe," the police official said. Inputs from locals could be vital and help in identifying those behind the blast, the police officer said. Asked if the explosion could have been a fallout of internal squabbles in the ruling Trinamool Congress, as has been alleged by the BJP, the police officer said it is difficult to infer such things at this stage since no arrests have been made so far. "We have not been able to identify anybody responsible for this mishap. And it is very difficult to say whether he belongs to any particular political outfit or not. Our investigation is at a very early stage and nothing conclusive can be drawn now," the officer said. Police have described Tuesday's blast as a low-intensity one that occurred outside a fruit shop on the ground floor of a building which houses the office of South Dum Dum Municipality chairman and Trinamool Congress leader Panchu Roy. The ruling party has held the BJP responsible for the blast and alleged that it was targeted at Roy. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Wednesday brought radical change to the way cases have been mentioned for urgent hearing, saying that only matters like the execution of death penalty and eviction would be treated as urgent till "parameters" are laid down for them. Justice Gogoi, who was administered the oath as 46th CJI by at the in the forenoon, assembled with Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph at 12.05 PM in the packed CJI's courtroom and greeted lawyers with a smile. Moments after settling at the dais, the CJI, the first from north-east India, broke the news for the lawyers, waiting in the queue to mention cases for urgent hearing. "No mentioning. We will work out the parameters then we will see as to how mentioning will be done." The CJI further said: "If somebody is going to be hanged or evicted tomorrow then we can understand (the urgency). Otherwise, there will be no mentioning." Lawyer Mathews Nedumpara, while trying to mention a matter, congratulated the CJI on becoming "captain of the judiciary". But, the lawyer's submission was cut short by Justice Gogoi, who said, "Let us get back to the work. Mr Nedumpara, this is not the place for all this. We don't need all this. You are here to mention? No mentioning till parameters are worked out". Lawyer Prashant Bhushan, who was next in line, mentioned an interim plea for urgent hearing saying that some Rohingyas were on the verge of being deported to Mayanmar. The bench said it would first peruse the application and then decide about the listing. "Call out the cases," the CJI ordered the court staff which led lawyers, standing in the queue to mention cases, to exit the courtroom in hurry. The CJI-led bench, during the hearing, also refused to grant pass over in a matter and asked the lawyer concerned to argue the case instead. Earlier, the mentioning of cases used to continue for 20 to 30 minutes everyday before the bench headed by then CJI Dipak Misra, who demitted office on October 2. Justice Gogoi, later in the day, came out with a new roster allocating cases to various benches, and decided that the Public Interest Litigations (PILs) will be heard by him. The new roster also made clear that a bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur who is next in seniority to him, would also hear PILs earmarked by the CJI. Justice Gogoi will have a tenure of a little over 13 months and would retire on November 17, 2019. In the images, large surface sinkholes, characteristic of the rainforest-covered karst landscape, look like enormous black holes of varying sizes. Once identified, professional cavers venture into the depths of giant caves. The Nakanai region comprises a limestone mountain range with an area covering approximately 4,000 square kilometres and cavers rely on aerial images to look for deep caverns to explore. CAIRNS - The Nakanai caves are part of a globally unique system of limestone caves. They are located within the Nakanai Range of East New Britain, amongst primary rainforest extending from the mountain summits to the southern coastline. You can download here the 35 page publication, The Nakanai Mountain Ranges of East New Britain, Papua New Guinea, by Jennifer Gabriel (Editor) et al, from which this extract is taken A large underground river in the Muruk system of the Nakanai caves is fed by numerous surface sinkholes Minya doline on the Nakanai Plateau Major advances in understanding the Nakanai caves have been achieved through 45 years of expeditions, the first of which was undertaken by Australian cavers, followed by French and British international teams. The Nakanai Mountains are up to 2,185 metres high and the topography is covered in dense tropical forest. An early report on the caves of New Britain noted that stories of great river effluxes and cave entrances are common for the area inland from Pomio. An abundance of insects, and multiple species of bats and flying foxes could be found in a single cave in large numbers. The first very preliminary exploration to the Nakanai Mountains was undertaken in 1968 by Chris Borough and Kevin Reid of the Port Moresby Speleological Society. Borough, writing in the Niugini Caver of 1973, told of his experience locating what he called the Big Hole in 1968, described the Nakanai karst landscape as consisting of endless sinks with almost vertical sides near the outer edge of each and clothed in dense forest. Borough wrote: It can only be described as impossible country and I never succeeding in pursuing more than a km into it from one edge. Army maps show two remarkable features on one of the limestone plateaux North of Pomio in Eastern New Britain. They are a large hole about 1.5 km long and 460 m deep and a smaller hole, 0.5 km wide and 380 m deep. For the average caver, this is too much and I drooled at the prospect of seeing these immense holes. French-Swiss cave explorers make their way through the amazing Nakanai cave system Borough and his caving colleague, Reid, arrived in Tuke Village by helicopter. To locate the Big Hole, local people were recruited as guides, but would not accompany Borough and Reid all the way to the sinkhole, as it was regarded as a place of foreboding, where devils and ravenous crocodiles may lie in wait at the bottom. Upon descending around 60 metres into the hole, the realisation that a full descent to the 300 metres would require specialist equipment saw Borough and Reid return to the village. The first official caving expedition to the Nakanai Mountains was undertaken by an Australian team in 1972 when Michael Bourke led an expedition (four men and two women) from the University of Queensland Speleological Society to the Ora dolines. During the 1972-73 expedition, the team explored the northern doline, following a river at the bottom to a cave chamber 15-27 metres wide and about 27 metres high. They charted 168 metres of passage before progress was halted by a waterfall that occupied the entire cave floor. The Australian team noted that it should be possible to explore further by traversing above the waterfall. Moving upstream from the bottom of the doline they entered a large cave chamber 600 metres long and 67 metres deep, with huge stalagmites hanging from the roof. By moving through the chamber in a southerly direction they emerged out in the bottom of the twin doline. Walls as high as 100 metres rose up from the bottom. Re-entering the cave from the southern doline, the cavers followed an old stream passage back to the river. Downstream was a spectacular waterfall, and upstream they moved through a beautiful section along the river to a lake. Bourke wrote: Calcite curtains, candle wax stalagmites, flowstone and stalactites, lavishly decorate this area. Following the Australian expedition, a French caving expedition continued the research in 1978. Numerous expeditions came later. The 1979 Swiss expedition to Kavakuna Cave and descended to 320 metres. It resulted in tragedy when one of the cavers drowned in a caving mishap, and the rescue helicopter, en-route to Rabaul, had engine failure and crashed into a river. In 1980, a French-international team led by Jean Paul Sounier, explored the three entrances of Kavakuna Cave and undertook the initial exploration of the Nare river cave near the village of Nutuve. In 1984 and 1985 the British caving team completed the exploration of Nare Cave, the Pavie River Cave and the Gamvo Cave system. Towards the end of the expedition a reconnaissance trip looked at the Ora dolines. The British team felt that the cave warranted a further visit, but it was to be over 20 years before they returned. The 1985 expedition to Nakanai, undertaken by the French international team explored Minye Cave, and Muruk Cave. A decade later during the 1995 expedition, the French team dived the final sump (a passage in a cave that is submerged under water) and enabled Muruk to become the first 1,000- metre-deep cave documented in the Southern Hemisphere. In 1998, during a helicopter reconnaissance flight over the area between Galowe Gorge to the east, and the huge Wunung Gorge to the west, French caving expedition leader Jean-Paul Sounier was surprised to see that, unlike Galowe Gorge, no rivers poured into this 1,000-meter-deep Wunung Gorge canyon. This begged the question: where was the water flowing into the mouth of the coastal Wunung River coming from? The mysterious ghost rivers of the Wunung Gorge became the subject of an expedition in 2016 and 2018. The British cavers returned in 2006 with a team of 12 from the UK, France, and the United States. The UK expedition, led by David Gill, involved a two-month expedition to complete the Untamed Rivers Expedition, first commenced in 1984. The primary purpose was to complete the exploration and mapping of the Ora river cave and to search for other caves in the area. The secondary objective was to gather data with the aim of establishing a Nakanai Conservation Area which would be proposed for World Heritage status to protect the cave area from destruction by logging. During the British expedition, over 12 kilometres of river caves were explored and mapped. The Phantom Pot cave was mapped during the early stages of the expedition at an altitude of 1,045 metres. Phantom Pot was surveyed for 3.9 kilometres, over a depth of 191 metres. In January 2016, an international team led by French caver Jean-Paul Sounier explored a gigantic black sinkhole spotted in aerial images. On a plateau along the left bank of Wunung Gorge, a black and white mark indicated a surface sinkhole with a black hole almost 100 meters wide and 100-150 metres deep. During the Black Hole Expedition in 2016, the team, spent four weeks surveying and mapping caves and galleries. One cave was named Wild Dog Cave after a long howl, similar to that of a wolf pierced the previous night. In the sinkhole they initially named Dooble, the ceiling is magnificently decorated with white stalactites and streams, waterfalls, and underground lakes flow through the galleries. The discovery of the 714-metre-deep cave named as Dooble was re-named the Christian Rigaldie Cave to honour a caver who was part of the first French expedition to the Nakanai Mountains in 1980. A cave mouth in the Nakanai Mountains Although he never returned to Nakanai, Rigaldie contributed to the funding of several expeditions and died of illness in 2015. At 714 metres deep the Christian Rigaldie cave now ranks as the second deepest cave in Papua New Guinea, after the Casoar (Muruk) cave network. In 2018, the French-led team returned to explore the underground drainage system of the Christian Rigaldie Cave network, which flows deep beneath the Wunung Gorge. The Ghost Rivers expedition documented 16 cave chambers beneath the Nakanai Mountains. After three weeks exploring blocked cave entrances, the team found a collection basin with fast-flowing underground rivers, exploring and charting six kilometres of networks with two major cavities more than 500 metres deep. The biggest of these cavities, at around 580 metres deep, was named Phillipe Pato Cave (to pay homage to a former porter), the third deepest cave in Papua New Guinea. Zari Hassan is a savage who shouldnt be crossed, that much we know. The mother of five once again put her savagery on display yesterday at the expense of her former partner, Diamond Platnumz. The Bongo star on Tuesday turned a year older and Zari was on hand to wish him a happy birthday with a witty message. Sharing a picture of her kids with Diamond, Zari wrote: Happy birthday mwenye vikima vyake, which loosely translates to happy birthday to the father of these monkeys. The message was a subtle clap back after Diamond recently referred to her as a kima mwenye nyege (a h*rny monkey). Diamond made the comment on social media after a fan lauded him for behaving himself during Romy Jons party by not touching or cozying up to any woman including his ex Wema Sepetu who was in attendance. Defending himself, Diamond responded saying that touching women is his job and no woman can stop him. He further claimed that videos of him touching women made a h*orny Zari(kima mwenye nyege) chase after him. Touching women is part of my job and every woman I date knows that.Its part of my job and I cannot stop because of one monkey talking when what brought her to me was horniness after she saw those clips of me touching women, he wrote. Justice Ranjan Gogoi, who took over as the Chief Justice of India on Wednesday, came out with a new roster allocating cases to various benches, and decided that the Public Interest Litigation matters will be heard by him and a bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur, who is next in seniority to him. After the swearing-in at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Justice Gogoi came back to the Supreme Court and presided over the bench along with Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph in Court number 1, the CJI's court. The new CJI began the day by telling lawyers that fresh parameters would be worked out for mentioning the matters for hearing of cases which require hearing on priority and urgent mentioning. Justice Gogoi, who took oath as the 46th CJI, said "no urgent mentioning of cases will be allowed" till certain parameters are fixed for it. "We will work out the parameters, then we will see as to how mentioning will be done," he said. "If somebody is going to be hanged tomorrow, then we can understand (urgency)", the CJI added. The Supreme Court website showed the roster of the work for fresh cases notified under the order of the Chief Justice of India with effect from October 3 till further orders. The CJI has decided to keep with himself the PIL and the petitions based on the letters received. The bench headed by him will also deal with the matters relating to social justice, elections, company law, Monopoly and Restricted Trade Practices, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, Security Exchange Board of India, Insurance and Reserve Bank of India. Justice Gogoi has also kept with himself matters concerning arbitration, habeas corpus, criminal cases, contempt of court and ordinary civil matters. His bench will also deal with the issues relating to the appointment of Constitutional functionaries, statutory appointments and appointment of other law officers. Besides the matters pertaining to the judicial officers and Commissions of Enquiry, would also be allocated before the bench headed by CJI. Justice Gogoi has also allocated the PIL and letter-based matters to the bench headed by Justice Lokur whose bench will also be seized of matters of land acquisition and requisition and service. Justice Lokur's bench which is already allocated social justice matters will continue with it along with the matters relating to forest, environment, wild life and ecology. Personal law matters, religious charitable endowments and issues of mines, minerals and mining leases would be allocated to the bench headed by Justice Lokur which will also take up the matters of land laws and agriculture tenancies, consumer protection and issues relating to armed forces and paramilitary. Justice Kurian Joseph, who is third in seniority will have matters relating to labour, rent, service, family and criminal cases. The bench headed by Justice Joseph would also share with the bench of CJI the matters relating to contempt of court. The allocation of work for Justice Joseph includes ordinary, civil, personal law along with religious and charitable endowments. His bench will also deal with simple money and mortgage matters. Besides, his bench has been assigned matters of land laws, agriculture and tenancy and also pertaining to the Supreme Court, High Courts, others courts and the tribunals. Justice A K Sikri, the fourth senior most judge, will also share the matters relating to contempt of court and his bench will deal with taxes matters -both direct and indirect and also the election petitions. Justice Sikri's bench has also been allocated with criminal matters, appeals against orders of statutory bodies, ordinary civil matters and also statutory appointments and appointments of law officers. His bench would also deal with the personal law matters and also those pertaining to employees of the apex court, high courts and other judicial bodies. Indirect tax matters have also been allocated to the Justice S A Bobde, the fifth senior most judge and the new entrant to the five-member apex court collegium, who will also adjudicate upon the matters relating to academics, arbitration, compensation, criminal, family law and ordinary civil cases. Justice Bobde's bench has also been allocated with the matters concerning mercantile laws, commercial transactions including banking and admissions to educational institutions other than medical and engineering. His bench has also been allocated with the matters of admirality, maritime law, admission/transfer to engineering and medical colleges and also matters relarting to leases, government contracts and contracts by local bodies. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Chief ministers of at least eight mountainous states will meet for two days in Shimla from Friday to discuss various common issues being faced by them, officials said. Those who are expected to attend the meeting include chief ministers of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Meghalaya while an official will represent Jammu and Kashmir, which is under the President's rule. Union minister Kiren Rijiju will attend the meeting as the representative of the central government, an official said. Issues related to development of border areas, construction of roads, bridges, hospitals, schools besides others are expected to be discussed in the meeting, another official said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A special court has imposed a fine of Rs two lakh on a director of Adhunik Corporation Ltd, accused in a coal scam case, for violating bail conditions by going abroad without its prior permission. However, Special CBI Judge Bharat Parashar did not cancel the bail after the accused -- Mahesh Kumar Agarwal -- tendered "unconditional apology" with an undertaking that no such occasion will arise in future, and the Judge directed him to deposit the fine amount in 'Kerala Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund'. The firm, Agarwal and its another director Nirmal Kumar Agarwal are facing trial for the alleged offence punishable under sections 420 (cheating), 471 (using as genuine a forged document) and 120-B (criminal conspiracy) for the alleged irregularities in allocation of Patrapara coal block in Odisha to the firm. Advoate Vijay Agarwal, appearing for Mahesh, told the court that from December 23, 2016 to January 5, 2017 the accused had "indeed gone to Australia without taking prior permission from the court." "Counsel very fairly admitted that this is a violation of bail condition by accused and accused tenders unconditional apology in this regard with the undertaking that no such occasion will arise in future," the court noted. Public prosecutor V K Sharma and advocate Tarannum Cheema, appearing for CBI, told the court that the accused had violated the bail conditions and he required to be put behind bars after cancelling his bail. "Considering the facts and circumstances of the case coupled with the submissions made and in the interest of justice, I deem it appropriate to grant one opportunity to accused M K Aggarwal and hereby condon the aforesaid act of accused with the direction that he shall deposit a sum of Rs two lakh in Kerala Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund," the court said. The court had on January 15, 2016 granted bail to the accused persons on a personal bond of Rs one lakh each with one surety of like amount after they appeared before it on pursuance of its summons issued against them. The court had summoned the firm and its two directors for alleged offences under sections 120-B, 420, 468 (forgery for the purpose of cheating) and 471 of the IPC after taking cognisance of CBI's charge sheet. In its charge sheet, the CBI said the 30th Screening Committee had recommended M/s Adhunik Corporation Ltd for part allocation of Patrapara coal block. "During the course of investigation, it was found that M/s Adhunik Corporation Ltd had misrepresented on various aspects both to Ministry of Steel and thereby to Ministry of Coal with a view to cheat them so as to procure allocation of Patrapara coal block," CBI had said in its charge sheet. While taking cognisance of the charge sheet, the court had discharged another director of the firm, Ghanshyam Das Agarwal, who was also charge-sheeted by CBI in the case, saying there was no sufficient incriminating evidence on record which could lead to his summoning as an accused in the matter. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Centre Wednesday informed the Supreme Court that it would constitute within a week the 3-member committee, to be headed by former apex court judge Amitava Roy, to look into the issue of jail reforms in the country. The Centre told a bench of Justices Madan B Lokur, S Abdul Nazeer and Deepak Gupta that the authorities were going through the September 25 order of the apex court in this regard and the panel was likely to be constituted within a week. The Supreme Court had on September 25 constituted a 3-member committee to look into the issue of jail reforms and make recommendations on several aspects, including the overcrowding in prisons. The court had said that the committee would also comprise of Inspector General of Police of Bureau of Police Research and Development and Director General (Prisons) of Delhi's Tihar Jail. It had asked the Ministry of Home Affairs to issue a notification constituting the 'Supreme Court Committee on Prison Reforms'. The bench had passed the order while hearing a matter relating to inhuman conditions in 1,382 prisons across India. During the hearing, the bench also dealt with the issue related to keeping a death-row convict in solitary confinement in jail. It said the issue would be heard on October 8. In its September 25 order, the court had said that besides other issues, the committee would review the implementation of guidelines contained in Model Prison Manual 2016 by states and union territories (UTs) and also recommendations made by the Parliamentary Committee on Empowerment of Women in its report tabled in the Parliament titled 'Women in Detention and Access to Justice'. It had earlier taken strong exception to overcrowding of jails across the country and said prisoners also have human rights and cannot be kept like "animals". The court had earlier passed a slew of directions over unnatural deaths in jails and on prison reforms across India. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Rajasthan Police claimed Wednesday they had found no evidence of firing on the witnesses of the case and termed the complaint fake. The witnesses in the lynching case, including Khan's two sons, had alleged Saturday they were fired upon by unidentified men while they were on the way to appear in a court in Behror town. "No firing on the witnesses took place and the complaint was fake. There was no circumstantial evidence of firing and no such vehicle, as described by the complainant, is seen in CCTV footage," Circle Officer Behror Kushal Singh said. "The complaint was posted on social media about the alleged incident but they did not inform the police control room. They went to the SP office instead of approaching a nearby police station which had raised doubts," he said. Khan's son Irshad had lodged the complaint in the matter at the Neemrana Police Station. Singh said the police will file a report in the court and legal action against the complainant will also be taken for filing a false complaint. Six people, including Khan's sons Irshad and Arif and their lawyer, were on the way to court in Behror. They had alleged unidentified accused driving in an SUV without having registration number plate fired on them and fled from the spot. On April 1 last year, Irshad and Arif were with their father in a pick-up truck when they, along with two others, were attacked by cow vigilantes in Alwar. They were on their way to Haryana reportedly after purchasing cattle in Rajasthan. Khan, a 55-year-old dairy farmer, succumbed to his injuries two days later. With the much-awaited expansion of the H D Kumaraswamy ministry in Karnataka expected to take place next week, aspirants from the JDS' coalition partner Congress have started lobbying for ministerial berths. Amid reports that the state Congress leaders would leave for Delhi in a couple of days to finalise the list, aspirants have even resorted to pressure tactics. Supporters of Congress MLA from Bhadravathi B K Sangamesh Wednesday demonstrated near former chief minister and Congress legislature party leader Siddaramaiah's residence here, demanding a ministerial berth for their leader. They urged Siddaramaiah and other party leaders to consider Sangamesh who is the lone party MLA from Shivamogga district that is considered the stronghold of state BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa. According to party sources, several aspirants who have been mounting pressure on the party's state leadership here are also likely to go Delhi soon to pursue their demand. This would be the second expansion of the cabinet since the coalition came to power in May in a post-poll tie-up between the Congress and JD(S). In the earlier exercise on June 6, Kumaraswamy had inducted 25 ministers, taking the ministry's strength to 27. There are six vacant ministerial positions for the Congress and one for the JD(S). Under the power sharing arrangement reached by the two parties, the Congress will have 22 ministers and the JD(S) 12. The decision to expand the cabinet has come amid speculations that some disgruntled Congress MLAs were being wooed by the BJP, besides reported factionalism within the party. With a growing number of aspirants and limited ministerial berths in hand, the Congress was preparing a list of MLAs to be appointed as heads to boards and corporations, in an effort to pacify any kind of resentment, party sources said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Punjab Congress on Wednesday told the party's top brass that it did not need any alliance in the state for next year's Lok Sabha elections and it would win all 13 seats on its own. Chief minister Amarinder Singh conveyed the view to the Congress' alliance committee. Party matters, particularly those related to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, were discussed during the meeting, Singh told reporters. Senior Congress leaders including Ahmed Patel, A K Antony, Jairam Ramesh, Mallikarjuna Kharge and Ghulam Nabi Azad and Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) president Sunil Jhakar attended the meeting. Singh said he and Jhakar told the party leaders that the Punjab Congress will go solo and win all the 13 Lok Sabha seats in the state. As far as a national alliance is concerned, it was left to the party high command to decide, he added. The chief minister told reporters he had informally taken the views of his cabinet colleagues on the issue after a meeting earlier in the day and "all were unanimous that no tie-ups were needed and the party would win the Lok Sabha polls in Punjab hands down". Asked about legalising cultivation of opium in Punjab, he said he was against it and would not allow drugs to ruin the state. "No matter what AAP MPs or others say, we don't want any drugs to be grown in Punjab," he said. Suspended AAP MP Dharamvira Gandhi has been batting for legalising cultivation of soft drugs like opium and poppy husk in Punjab. Singh's cabinet colleague Navjot Singh Sidhu has reportedly backed the demand. Responding to a question about the Centre's notification that includes Chandigarh DSPs in DANIPS (Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police Service) cadre, Singh reiterated that his government will not allow dilution of Punjab's stake in the union territory at any cost. His government, he said, had categorically rejected the Centre's notification about Chandigarh UT cadre allocation. The chief minister also revealed that he will meet the Union Food Minister Ram Vilas Paswan on Thursday to discuss the cash credit limit and food grain procurement issues. He said he will also take up the matter with Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress in Maharashtra is launching Thursday the second phase of its 'Jan Sangharsh Yatra' from Jalgaon's Faizpur, which had hosted the national session of the party in 1936 that was attended by stalwarts including Mahatma Gandhi. Congress general secretary Mallikarjun Kharge, party's state unit chief Ashok Chavan, former Union minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, senior leader Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil and others would take part in the second phase of the yatra. The first phase of the mass outreach programme, aimed at "exposing" the BJP-Shiv Sena government, was launched in Kolhapur on August 31. It concluded on September 8 in Pune. "Instead of fulfilled its promises, the government has hoodwinked people by lying to them. The aim of the yatra is to inform the people about the government's anti-people policies and to dislodge the combine," said Ashok Chavan. The former Maharashtra chief minister claimed that farmers, Dalits, minorities, women and the youth are feeling disappointed with the performance of the government. Referring to protests by Marathas, Muslims and Dhangars for quotas, Chavan said, "It seems the entire Maharashtra has taken to street (against the government). The yatra intends to protect interests of the people". Besides Jalgaon, the yatra would cover Dhule, Nandurbar and Nashik districts before culminating in Ahmednagar on October 9. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress MLA Lalrinliana Sailo today said he quit the party and Mizoram Assembly for "refusal" of the Congress government to create a separate district comprising his home turf. The former minister's resignation was accepted by Speaker Hiphei, Assembly secretariat sources said. He later submitted his resignation to state PCC chief Lal Thanhawla from the Congress party. He told reporters that he resigned as MLA and from the ruling party due to "refusal" of the Congress government to fulfil the promise of creating a separate Khawzawl district comprising his home turf - Tuchang Assembly seat. Sailo said that he would join the opposition Mizo National Front (MNF). He had been elected to the Assembly for three consecutive terms since 2003 and was a cabinet minister keeping portfolios like health and trade and commerce. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ahead of the release of his next flick 'Sarkar', top Tamil actor Vijay has said corruption has spread like a "virus" in the society and insisted if the leader at the top is honest, so will be his followers. He also deplored that bribes were demanded for even issuing birth and death certificates. "In a state, if those at the top level are honest, automatically everyone else will have fear (of action). Subjects follow the path of the king," he said, citing a proverb. The actor, one of the highest paid in the Tamil film industry, however, said his references were "general" and not aimed at any individual or political party. He was speaking at the audio launch of 'Sarkar' here on Tuesday. When the anchor asked him what will be the first thing he would do if he were to become the chief minister, the actor said, "I will take steps for eradicating corruption." Sarkar is slated for Diwali release next month. Vijay's recent movie "Mersel" had kicked up a row over its dialogue with political overtones like those on the GST. The 44-year-old actor said people seemed to have become used to corruption. "Corruption has spread like a virus. I don't know if it is possible to wipe it out. It does not appear to be easy to end corruption...but it has to be eradicated." In June, when the first look poster of Sarkar was released, it led to a controversy as it showed Vijay smoking a cigarette. PMK leader and former union minister Anbumani Ramadoss and anti-tobacco groups criticised the actor, saying the poster promoted smoking, forcing the producers to withdraw it. Vijay said "dharma" and "justice" will finally win but after some "delay". In a vacuum-like situation, he said, nature would "pitchfork" a leader into the top position who will give a good government. After the deaths of AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa and DMK patriarch M Karuannidhi, there is a perception of a political vacuum in Tamil Nadu. The Congress, he said, was a "good party" during the independence movement because it was led by Mahatma Gandhi and "it is still a good party". Reacting to Vijay's remarks, Revenue Minister R B Udaya Kumar said it has become a trend with actors to criticise the government. Listing out the achievements of the state's AIADMK government, he said film actors were not aware of those since they were engrossed in their own professional lives. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Security threat? China is developing large unmanned submarines that can roam the worlds oceans The military superpowers of the world are in a race to develop the most powerful unmanned, AI submarine fleet. After the Second World War, Western naval forces gained the advantageous position in the South China Sea. China seeks to reclaim positions in the South China Sea by being the first country to develop large, fearless unmanned submarines. The present day arms race is to create the most robust, most intelligent unmanned underwater vehicles (XLUUVs). Lin Yang, marine technology equipment director at the Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, confirms that China is developing a fleet of underwater robots that can reach operational depths beyond 6km. The original producer of the first autonomous underwater vehicle, Lin Yang is now the chief scientist of the highly classified 912 Project, which seeks to build the most advanced AI underwater fleet. These relatively low cost AI vessels could be sent out on suicide missions to take out Western vessels. Chinas advanced AI vessels can learn about their environment and place mines in the most strategic places. These unmanned vessels could be used up front in battle to scout out and charter paths for a fleet of lethal, manned submarines. In the Zhuhai, Guangdong province, China now boasts the worlds largest testing facility for surface drone boats. The Chinese military is teaching submarine commanders how to use AI-assisted support systems so they can make more accurate decisions in the heat of battle. The development of AI submarines will heighten the stakes of war Moreover, the underwater AI-assisted system will be used to carry out missions in conjunction with manned and autonomous military operations already being conducted on land, water, and air. These unmanned submarines will be able to complete missions without human intervention. These soul-less machines will fearlessly be able to conduct dangerous missions, heightening the stakes of war. This technology will give commanders more power and brazenness to make risky decisions. These machines are not small underwater drones; instead, they are giant submarines that dock and disguise themselves as conventional subs. They can run continuously and autonomously for many months due to their self sustaining diesel-electric engines. These machines are smart, capable of adjusting their own depth to avoid detection by enemy forces. They can navigate the seas with great accuracy, chartering the safest path to reach a designated location. They even have the ability to distinguish between a civilian and military vessel. As they gather intelligence in the open seas, these AI vessels will learn the best positions to create chock points. This artificial intelligence will teach the Chinese military where the precise tactical positions are, in order to stop opposing forces from penetrating their territory. Because they are more cost effective than traditional military submarines, they can also be used to ram into high value targets if need be. The United States is currently working on XLUUV prototypes as well and has financed the manufacture of nine such machines for use by 2020. Boeing is developing a 50 ton autonomous submarine and Lockheed Martin has come up with a fleet of AI vessels known as the Orca system. Russias Status-6 can reportedly travel autonomously at high speed and deliver a 100 megaton warhead. These AI vessels are cheaper because they do not have to give comfort and safety to an onboard crew. Lockheed Martins Orca program costs roughly $40 million, compared to a $2 billion price tag just to create one Ohio-class submarine for the U.S. Navy. The advanced learning capabilities of these AI vessels change the focus and strategy of future warfare and national defense. The more experience the AI gets, the more capable it will become in defending its own fleet. This could cause nations to desire conflict, as they push the limits and intelligence of their AI systems. As AI systems get smarter, they will put tremendous pressure on human captains and commanders. This could inevitably lead to a strange world war of competing AI machines. For more on world threats, visit NationalSecurity.News. Sources include: SCMP.com NationalSecurity.News The Editors Guild of India on Wednesday demanded the revocation of an order by the Registrar of Newspapers for India cancelling the registration of 'Daily Desher Katha', a mouthpiece of the CPI-M in Tripura, and a probe into whether the decision was politically motivated. In a letter on Monday, the Registrar of Newspapers in India (RNI) said the publication was being suspended based on a verdict passed by the district magistrate of West Tripura, Sandeep Mahatme. It cited "unauthorised change of ownership" as the reason for the cancellation of the Bengali daily's registration. The Editors Guild of India, in a statement, said it condemns the decision of the RNI to cancel the registration of 'Daily Desher Katha', which is published from Agartala. "The Guild is of the view that cancellation of the registration of a publication on the mere finding that there was a mismatch between the information of the editor, printer and publisher is not only a gross overreaction but also a draconian step that throttles freedom of the media," the statement said. The Guild, an umbrella body of media organisations, demanded immediate revocation of the order, pending further inquiry into the charges of misinformation. It also demanded that a thorough inquiry is instituted by the government to investigate whether the decision was politically motivated. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) : Dubbing the proposed Congress-TDP pre-poll alliance as anti-Telangana, caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao Wednesday said the opposition wants to 'hand over' the state to 'Andhra People' once again. Lashing out at Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, he alleged that his Andhra Pradesh counterpart was caught red handed in the 'cash for vote' scam in 2015. Naidu landed in a controversy in the wake of some channels airing an audio recording of a purported conversation he had with a nominated legislator seeking his vote in the Legislative Council elections in 2015. The case is pending in court. Speaking at a public meeting at Nizamabad, Rao also alleged that Naidu had promised Rs 500 crore and three choppers for the Congress as his contribution for the ensuing election. "These people (Congress) are touching his (Naidu) feet and trying to bring him back to Telangana. Is this what we want? He is a demon... He snatched seven mandals from us. He was writing letter to the centre to stop our projects." Rao said though Naidu's party did not have any strength in Telangana, he wanted to create political instability in the state. "He iwas caught red handed in the cash for vote scam, he alleged Terming Naidu as a betrayer, Rao said the Congress was 'shamelessly' trying to be friendly with TDP and its chief, who destroyed the lives of Telangana people and under whose watch, hundreds of people were killed in alleged fake encounters. "He is Telangana betrayer. If you ( Congress) beg, we will give you four seats. You ( people) want to hand over power to Andhra people? Should we go to Amaravati? You should not pledge Telangana pride.Let us not bow our heads to Delhi." Flaying AICC General Secretary and former Union Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad's remarks that TRS had no role in the formation of Telangana, he demanded to know who had a part in its formation. KCR said the Government was considering recording the health profile of every citizen of Telangana. Rao claimed that Telangana had overcome the power crisis and that his Government has been spending Rs 42,000 crore on welfare schemes. He said the partys manifesto committee was working towards increasing the pension amount to beneficiaries. Seeking a mandate to re-elect his government, Rao claimed there was 17.17 per cent average growth in revenue collections in the past four years and 20 per cent in the first four months of the current fiscal. Assembly polls in Telangana were originally scheduled to be held simultaneously with the Lok Sabha elections next year. However, the assembly was dissolved earlier this month as per a recommendation of the state cabinet, which necessitated elections ahead of the schedule. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Incidents of unprovoked firing from the Pakistani side along the international border (IB) in Jammu have quadrupled this year as against 2017 and the figure was the highest in the past five years, according to official data. The latest data accessed by PTI also shows that the Border Security Force (BSF) suffered the maximum casualties this year -- 12 deaths and 40 injured. The data shows that till September this year, a total of 498 incidents of cross-border firing have taken place along the IB in Jammu as compared to 111 last year. The corresponding figures for the previous three years were 204 (in 2016), 350 (in 2015) and 127 (in 2014). Twelve BSF personnel have been killed in these incidents this year, including the brutal killing of Head Constable Narender Singh last month. Singh was shot dead and his throat slit when his team went towards the fence to cut thick and long elephant grass near their border post in Ramgarh sector of Jammu. A "record-high" number of 40 jawans have been injured in these incidents this year and these figures are the highest in the past five years, the data said. A BSF jawan was also killed along the small portion of the Line of Control (LoC) that falls in Jammu this year, the data said. While the BSF is deployed under the operational command of the Army along the LoC, it secures the IB independently. Last year, two personnel of the border guarding force were killed and seven injured due to sniping and mortar shelling incidents along the IB while three BSF personnel were killed and 10 injured in such incidents in 2016. Similarly, a BSF jawan was killed and five were injured in 2015 while two men were killed and 14 were injured in 2014 at this frontier in Jammu and Kashmir. A senior official of the force said in view of the recent killing of the BSF jawan along this frontier by Pakistani border action team (BAT), the force has asked the forward units along the IB to be on "extra alert and vigilant". "The relations between the two countries and their security forces are strained for quite sometime now. It is, therefore, expected that the hostilities may rise and audacious attacks can be launched by the other side. The forward units hence have been asked to be very very cautious," the official, who did not wish to be identified, said. Former BSF Director General K K Sharma, who retired last month, had told reporters during his last press conference here on September 28 that they were witnessing a "more aggressive stance" of the opponent along the IB in Jammu and Kashmir after Imran Khan took over as Pakistan's prime minister. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court Wednesday pulled up the police for not arresting self-styled preacher Daati Maharaj in a sexual assault case and transferred the matter to the CBI. A bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice V K Rao allowed the complainant woman's plea to transfer the matter to the CBI, saying the manner in which Delhi Police carried out the probe "casts a shadow on the investigation". The bench said that police did not arrest the accused in the case even after recording of the complainant's statement before a magistrate under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). Delhi government standing counsel (criminal) Rahul Mehra, appearing for the police, said arrests were not made as there were discrepancies and contradictions in the woman's statement. He also said that other women, who according to the complainant were also assaulted by the accused, have denied such allegations when they were questioned. Mehra further said that Crime Branch of Delhi Police on October 1 filed a charge sheet in the trial court, which is hearing the matter, and added that it was based on the woman's statement. The bench, however, did not accept the contentions, saying, "Why were the accused not arrested? Once there was a 164 statement, you should have arrested him and if there were any discrepancies or contradictions in her statement, they would have been grounds for grant of bail." The court said that the manner in which the other women witnesses were questioned, by taking all of them together in one bus "as if for an excursion", did not inspire confidence in the investigation. "Let the matter be transferred to CBI. It can file a supplementary charge sheet. CBI to submit a preliminary report in three weeks (on status of probe)," the court said. The bench was hearing two pleas, one by the complainant and another a PIL, seeking transfer of the case to the CBI. The complainant's plea was earlier being heard by a single judge bench of the high court, but was transferred to the division bench after the PIL was filed. A complaint was filed against Daati Madan Lal alias Daati Maharaj on June 7 and an FIR was registered on June 11. On June 22, police questioned the accused, who has been charged with rape of a disciple at his ashrams in Delhi and Rajasthan. The accused has claimed he was being framed in the case. The complainant has filed the case against the preacher, his three brothers and a woman at Fatehpur Beri police station in South Delhi. The case was later transferred to the crime branch. In her petition before the single judge, she had claimed that the accused and his associates were interrogated by the crime branch on different dates but were not arrested. It said the FIR against him has been registered for alleged heinous offences of rape, unnatural sex, molestation and common intention under the IPC. The trial court had taken strong exception to the manner in which the probe was being conducted in the rape case, saying the investigating officer had not been able to explain the efforts made to ensure that the accused does not abscond during the investigation. It had directed the DCP (Crime Branch) to monitor the probe and ensure a status report is filed before the court every week. A Delhi Police team, accompanied by the woman, had visited the ashram in Pali city in Rajasthan to gather evidence, but failed to find the accused there. The Delhi Commission for Women had also demanded the arrest of the self-styled godman. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court said Wednesday it was an "unfortunate situation" that Delhi Police was not taking action against those who have tampered with seals put on the premises having illegal constructions and observed that people were taking law in their hands due to this. A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur said this after the court was informed by engineers of municipal corporations in Delhi that police has not taken action in some cases where seal put on the buildings were removed by private persons. "This is a rather unfortunate situation where the police did not take action due to which some persons take law into their hands," said the bench, which also comprised Justices S Abdul Nazeer and Deepak Gupta. The counsel appearing for engineers of the civic bodies told the bench that there were cases where they seal some building but the private persons de-seal it. When he said that they have lodged complaints with the police in this regard, the bench asked, "Why the police has not taken any action?". The lawyer said that in some cases, police has taken action while in some other matters, no action has been taken. The bench asked the counsel to give a list of cases within a week where police has not taken any action despite complaints being lodged in the matter. During the hearing, the bench also dealt with the matter related to contempt notice issued to Delhi BJP chief and Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwari for allegedly breaking the seal of a premises in Gokalpuri area here which was being run in violation of the Delhi Master Plan. The bench told senior advocate Vikas Singh, appearing for the MP, that Tiwari has filed his reply to the contempt notice but its copy has not been given to the amicus curiae who is assisting the court in the Delhi sealing matter. The court asked Tiwari, who was present in the court, to supply the copy of his reply to the amicus and posted the matter for hearing after 10 days. It directed Tiwari to remain present in the court on the next date of hearing. In his reply, Tiwari has said that he had broken the seal of a premises here as a "symbolic protest" against the illegal action of officials of the East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC) and was willing to accept the role of 'sealing officer' as suggested by the apex court. During the hearing, the bench also dealt with the issue relating to encroachment of forest land and water bodies here which was raised by the court-appointed monitoring committee in its report. The counsel appearing for Delhi government said that they would file an affidavit within two weeks in this regard. The lawyer said that water bodies in Delhi have to be retained and encroachment on forest land would be cleared. The Ministry of Water Resources also filed an affidavit in the apex court in the issue of depletion of ground water in Delhi. The court said these issues would be taken up for consideration after two weeks. On September 25, Tiwari had appeared before the court in pursuance to the contempt notice issued to him for allegedly breaking the seal of a premises. The court had directed him to file an affidavit within a week explaining why contempt proceedings not be initiated against him. An FIR was lodged against him by the East Delhi Municipal Corporation for allegedly breaking the seal of the premises. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said Wednesday he foresees the possibility of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar doing yet another volte-face by walking out of the BJP-led NDA ahead of the next Lok Sabha election. The former Madhya Pradesh chief minister alleged that Kumar, who heads the JD(U), an NDA constituent, cannot survive without power and said he may walk out of the ruling alliance if Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity drops before the election. "It takes only 24 hours for Kumar to make a volte-face. Lok Sabha elections are six months away. Palti (U-turn) is possible," Singh, who is in Patna on a private visit, told a channel. Asked whether the Congress would welcome Kumar as an ally, Singh said cryptically is the art of possibilities. Singh has served as Congress in-charge of Bihar before C P Joshi took over from him in 2013. The Rajya Sabha member's remark on the possibility of Kumar's switch to the Congress camp could also be a dig at Kumar, who had snapped his 17-year-old ties with the BJP in 2013, formed a Grand Alliance with the Congress and arch-rival Lalu Prasad a year later, but returned to the NDA last year. When he quit the Grand Alliance in July last year, Kumar had also resigned as chief minister of Bihar citing the "call of conscience". At that time, his government was drawing sever criticism from the BJP - then in Opposition - over corruption cases involving then deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav. However, Kumar returned as chief minister a day after his resignation and formed an alliance with the BJP. But Yadav, an RJD leader, has been asserting that the doors are closed for Kumar's return to the Grand Alliance. Also, Singh's remarks come at a time when media reports have suggested the NDA partners in Bihar are having a tough time negotiating sharing of seats for the 2019 election. NDA comprises BJP, JD(U), LJP of Union minister Ramvilas Paswan and RLSP of Union minister Upendra Kushwaha. In the Opposition, RJD, Congress, HAM of former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and Left parties are working together. Training his guns at the BJP, Singh termed agitations by various upper castes organisations against reservations and SC/ST Act a conspiracy to hide the Modi government's failures. Asked about the posters put up in Patna recently, on which the caste of Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, was mentioned, Singh evaded a direct reply. He, instead said, "our slogan has always been na jaat par na paat par vote padega hath par" (vote for the 'hand' without thinking about caste or creed). Earlier speaking to journalists, he alleged that there was a tacit understanding between the BJP and parties such as the AIMIM headed by Hyderabad lawmaker Asaduddin Owaisi. "...Look at the Ram temple issue, it gets raked up whenever elections are around the corner only to be put on the back burner once the results are out," Singh remarked. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Shakti Kapoor took a dig at Tanushree Dutta's allegation that Nana Patekar harassed her on the sets of a film in 2008, saying he was a kid 10 years ago when the incident happened. In a recent TV interview, Dutta said Patekar misbehaved with her while the two were shooting a special song for "Horn Ok Pleassss" 10 years ago. The actor, a former Miss India-Universe who is now based in the US, also alleged that Patekar had the tacit support of the film's makers. Asked to comment on the controversy, Kapoor told reporters Tuesday, "I have come from the US yesterday, so I have no clue about it. And if I say something, it will be wrong... You tell me what has happened." When one of the reporters briefed him about the matter, the actor said, "I don't know what happened 10 years ago, I was a kid 10 back then." Dutta has garnered support from many in the film industry which includes names such as Farhan Akhtar, Priyanka Chopra, Twinkle Khanna, Hansal Mehta, Richa Chadha and Swara Bhasker, among others. According to reports, Patekar has sent a legal notice to Dutta and the veteran actor, who is shooting for "Houseful 4" in Jaisalmer, is expected to brief the media on the matter in a few days in Mumbai. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The recent death of a young holiday-maker due to suspected drug overdose in Goa has once again showed that drug cartels are flourishing in the state, the Shiv Sena said Wednesday. Shashank Sharma (24), a Hyderabad resident, died due to suspected drug overdose at Anjuna beach Sunday night. Shiv Sena's Goa unit vice president Rakhi Prabhudesai Naik alleged that "unethical tourism" activities, marked by "sale of drugs, rampant prostitution" and other illegalities are going on in the coastal state. "Drug trade is flourishing in the coastal belt, especially during the tourist season," she said. "There is no excuse as to why the police department can not weed out the drug menace. Police have enough manpower to crack down on narcotics trade," Naik said. "But the amount of money that flows in this trade and rampant corruption in the (police) force is responsible for the death of youngsters due to drug overdose," she claimed. She also asked why the officers in charge of certain police stations in the coastal belt are not transferred for years together. The inspectors who have served for more than one year at these stations should be transferred immediately, she demanded. "The way we hold a minister responsible for any illegality, the concerned police inspector should be suspended if there is a death due to drug overdose," Naik said. "We are not against tourists arriving here and peacefully celebrating their holidays but drug-laced rave parties should be strictly banned," she said. Goa Tourism Development Corporation's (GTDC) chairman Nilesh Cabral, however, said it is not possible to monitor each and every tourist for drug use. "I accept that such incidents should not happen and precautions should be taken. But you cannot monitor every single person coming to Goa. It is not humanly possible," said Cabral, who is also the state power minister. "We are getting tourists six times our population...any tourist destination has this type of problems," he said. Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar has "tightened the noose" around the drug rackets in Goa, Cabral said, while admitting that "may be there are some small instances (of drug sale). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 20-year-old Delhi University student has been arrested for allegedly killing along with his accomplices two brothers in Haryana for thrashing him badly and "making him a laughing stock in his village", police said Wednesday. The accused, identified as Anshu, a resident of Sonepat, was arrested Tuesday from outer Delhi's Najafgarh where he had come to meet his relatives while carrying an illegal weapon. The other five had already been arrested by the Haryana Police, they said. "During interrogation, Anshu disclosed that he was a first-year student of Bachelor of Arts in Swami Shraddhanand College, Alipur and while studying, he fell in the company of bad elements and took to crime," said Anto Alphonse, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka). Anshu had rivalry with one Aashish alias Ashu (25), from Halalpur, Haryana. Last year, during a wedding he got into a fight with Ashish over some issue, he said. "Ashish allegedly thrashed Anshu, who became a laughing stock in his village," the DCP said. This enraged Anshu and he called his friends Sandeep, Rohit, Mannu, Arun and Kartik from Narela and planned to attack Ashish in September this year, he said. They allegedly opened fire on Ashish, and when his brother Himanshu came to his rescue, they also fired at Himanshu. The brothers died in this incident, the DCP added. A sophisticated pistol 7.65 mm and two live cartridges were recovered from him, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An elite group of North Korean hackers has been identified as the source of a wave of cyberattacks on global banks that has netted "hundreds of millions" of dollars, security researchers said Wednesday. A report by the cybersecurity firm FireEye said the newly identified group dubbed APT38 is distinct from but linked to other North Korean hacking operations, and has the mission of raising funds for the isolated Pyongyang regime. FireEye researchers said APT38 is one of several hacking cells within an umbrella group known as "Lazarus," but with unique skills and tools that have helped it carry out some of the world's largest cyber heists. "They are a cybercriminal group with the skills of a cyberespionage campaign," said Sandra Joyce, FireEye's vice president of intelligence, in a briefing with journalists in Washington. Joyce said one of the characteristics of APT38 is that it takes several months, sometimes nearly two years, to penetrate and learn the workings of its targets before its attacks, which have sought to illegally transfer more than USD 1 billion from victimized banks. "They take their time to learn the intricacies of the organization," Joyce said. Once they succeed, she added, "they deploy destructive malware on their way out" to hide their traces and make it more difficult for victims to find out what happened. Joyce said FireEye decided to go public about the threat out of a "sense of urgency" because the group appears to still be operating and is "undeterred by any diplomatic efforts." The group has compromised more than 16 organizations in at least 11 different countries since at least 2014, according to the FireEye report. Some of the known attacks have targeted the Vietnam TP Bank in 2015, Bangladesh Bank in 2016, Far Eastern International Bank of Taiwan in 2017 and Bancomext of Mexico and Banco de Chile in 2018. Joyce said the group appears to have "the scope and resources of a nation-state" but offered no specific figures on how many people it uses. Nalani Fraser, a member of the FireEye research team, said APT38 attacks sought at least USD 1.1 billion since 2014 and have managed to steal "hundreds of millions of dollars based on data that we can confirm." FireEye said there appears to be some sharing of resources between hacker groups in North Korea, including those involved in espionage and those in other kinds of attacks. Some of the information about APT38 was revealed in a US criminal complaint unsealed last month against Park Jin Hyok, charged in connection with WannaCry ransomware outbreak and the attack on Sony Pictures. But Park likely played only a peripheral role in APT38,which "has a focused mission to steal money to fund the North Korean regime," according to Joyce. The researchers said APT38 used extremely sophisticated techniques including "phishing" emails to gain access to credentials and using "watering holes" -- hijacked websites that appear normal but which contain malware that enable hackers to gather more data and access. As part of the scheme, the hackers created fake identities within known nongovernmental organizations or foundations to help move the stolen money, in some cases manipulating the global interbank transfer system known as SWIFT. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) October is packed with events for a variety of interests, including concerts that run the gamut of music genres, exhibitions, readings, and even a hike up nearby Panola Mountain. Here are 10 things to do that are either free or less than $10 this month: 1. Syncopate your rhythm with three jazz concerts. Jazz on the Green returns for the more moderated heat and humidity of fall with two Thursday performances, Oct. 4 and Oct. 18, both at 6 p.m. on Patterson Green. That outdoor space invites chairs, blankets for sitting, picnics, friends and family. Go indoors and bring the kids on Sunday, Oct. 21, for Just Jazzin Around, an Emory Chamber Music Society of Atlanta Family Series concert designed to introduce this quintessentially American music art form to a new generation. 2. Train your lens on a photography exhibition. October is Atlanta Celebrates Photography month and Emory joins in with an exhibition at the Chace Gallery in Schwartz Center for Performing Arts starting Oct. 7. The works of 20 Atlanta photographers will be on view through Nov. 2. The exhibition is free and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 3. Attend a reading of a Jack Kerouac novella manuscript. The author lost The Haunted Life in the back of a cab and it resurfaced about 10 years ago at Christies auction house. This coming-of-age story about a college student and his conservative father will become a fully-staged version premiering next spring in Massachusetts. Kerouac artifacts from the archive will be on view. The reading will be held at the Rose Library on Tuesday, Oct. 9, at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. 4. Enjoy a cocktail of films of mystery and evil with a twist of dry humor. Emory Cinematheques series on Alfred Hitchcocks films continues with three films, plus a bonus of three episodes from the directors anthology television series. All showings in the series are free and they are held at 7:30 p.m. in White Halls Room 208, unless otherwise noted. "Strangers on a Train" (1951) screens Oct. 10; "Rear Window" (1954) on Oct. 24; and "Vertigo" (1958) on Oct. 31. The three-episode showing of "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" is Oct. 17, featuring the intriguingly-named "Revenge" (1955); "Lamb to the Slaughter" (1958); "A Crime for Mothers" (1961). 5. Examine artists books up close and hear two book artists talk about their art. Bound with History: Encounters with the Rose Librarys Rare Book Collections will feature two book artists, Ellen Knudson of Crooked Letter Press in Gainesville, Florida, and Andrew Huot of Big River Bindery in Norcross, Georgia, talking about their training, inspiration and process. Guests will be invited to touch and turn the pages of selected artists books, removed from under the glass display. A reception will follow the event, which will be Thursday, Oct. 11, from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Bound with History is related to the exhibit Common Thread: Womens Experience through Artists Books on display at the Rose Library through Jan. 11. 6. Get some sharp insight into the current political climate. Politics is in season and you can hear Alan Abramowitz, Emorys Alben W. Barkley Professor of Political Science, discuss his book The Great Alignment: Race, Party Transformation, and the Rise of Donald Trump on Tuesday, Oct. 11, at 5:30 p.m. at Barnes and Noble at Emory. A book sale and signing will follow and refreshments will be served. The public is invited to this free event. 7. Hike a different granite mountain. Pull on some sturdy hiking shoes, fill up your water bottle and join the Center for Women for a hike of Panola Mountain just east of Atlanta in Stockbridge. Panola, a restricted area, is a 100-acre granite outcrop similar to Stone Mountain but more pristine. The 3.3-mile walk on Saturday, Oct. 13, begins at 10 a.m. and is expected to take approximately three hours. Costs are $8 for the hike and $5 for parking. 8. Attend theater in the woods. Come dressed for the weather to see an outdoor play. In Earnest is a site-specific adaptation of Oscar Wildes play The Importance of Being Earnest by Dooleys Players in the Department of Theater Studies. It will be performed from the back porch and in the forest outside the Math & Science Center on Saturday, Oct. 13, at noon. It will also be performed at other dates and times in October. Tickets are free but need to reserved. 9. Attend a program on Robert Lowell as poet and patient. A panel will discuss prominent American 20th century poet Robert Lowell, who suffered from manic depression. The program, entitled Moods and Music: Robert Lowell, Poet and Patient, will feature Kay Redfield Jamison, Dalio Professor on Mood Disorder and professor of psychiatry at The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. It will be held Tuesday, Oct. 23, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Emory Brain Health Center at Executive Park. The event is in partnership with the National Network of Depression Centers and the Johns Hopkins Mood Disorders Center. The program is free but an RSVP is required. 10. Follow this story of a father-son relationship intertwined with Homers Odyssey. Memoirist and essayist Daniel Mendelsohn talks about An Odyssey: A Father, a Son, and an Epic, his deeply moving memoir of he and his fathers transformative journey reading and reliving Homers epic masterpiece. He weaves in family history, retracing the semester in which his 81-year-old father sat in on the freshman seminar on the Odyssey he taught at Bard College, and the Odyssey-themed cruise that followed. This free event, in the Laszlo Excalibur Lecture series, is Thursday, Oct. 25, at 7:30 p.m. in Ackerman Hall of the Michael C. Carlos Museum. Retired Supreme Court judge N Santosh Hegde Wednesday advised the newly appointed Chief Justice of India, Justice Ranjan Gogoi to bring in more transparency in judicial proceedings and promote solidarity between judges to avoid any "misunderstanding". "Also, he (Justice Gogoi) should give an impression to the public that judges are one when it comes to justice," the former Solicitor General of India told PTI. Justice Ranjan Gogoi was Wednesday sworn in as the 46th Chief Justice of India (CJI). He succeeds Justice Dipak Misra. Justice Gogoi was among the four senior-most judges who had in January criticised the then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, especially the manner of allocation of cases to certain benches. Hegde said Justice Gogoi's primary responsibility would now be to reduce the huge pendency of cases in courts, and he was glad the new Chief Justice of India had already spoken on the issue. Justice Gogoi said last week that he had a plan to deal with pendency of cases which has been bringing in a lot of "disrepute" to the judicial system. He said he had a plan to deal with the backlog of cases and he would "unfold" it soon. Hegde, also former Lokayukta of Karnataka, said, "He (Justice Gogoi) should bring more transparency in the judicial proceedings. They (Supreme Court) have already decided on videographing (live-streaming) of proceedings. That apart, misunderstanding that the judges had in the last regime, should not be repeated". "That misunderstanding has led to a lot of scenes.... problem with people whose respect (towards Judiciary) is reducing. Once people lose respect of the judicial institution, that is end of democracy," he said. Hegde said the CJI should take fellow judges into confidence and discuss their views so that they will also develop a confidence in him. "Probably that lack (of such a practice) has led to some misunderstanding (during the previous regime) which has become a public issue and many things happened thereafter which should not happen," Hegde said. "He (Justice Gogoi) should bring about transparency in judicial administration and solidarity between the judges. Administrative solidarity should be there," he noted. "(Judicial) vacancies should be filled in a timely manner because any delay adds on to the backlog. It is like Hanuman's tail, it goes longer and longer and longer. If he is able to reduce the pendency of cases, that itself would be a great achievement," Hegde added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India captain Virat Kohli Wednesday asserted that it is not his space to comment on the controversial omission of Karun Nair from the Test squad and contrary to the growing belief, all decisions are not being made from "one place". Nair's exclusion from the two-Test squad for the home series against the West Indies triggered a controversy as he was dropped despite warming the bench through the five-Test series against England. Hanuma Vihari, who was not originally picked in the England-bound squad, pipped Nair to make his debut in the fifth and final Test at The Oval. "Selectors have already spoken about it and it is not my place to say. There are selectors doing their job. You can conveniently merge everything and make it a circle where everyone is doing their job and not focusing on what people are saying on the outside," Kohli said on the eve of the series-opener against the West Indies. "If a person has spoken about it already, it should not be brought in here again. The chief selector has already spoken to the player of what I know. I don't think I need to comment on that. "Selection is not my job. As a team we are doing what we are supposed to. Everyone should be aware of their respective jobs." The skipper asserted that no joint decisions are taken and all stakeholders are aware of their respective jobs. "People should also realise that it is not a joint thing everywhere. That is the confusion right now where people are combining everything and thinking everything is happening from one place which is not true," said Kohli, dismissing the perception that captain and the rest of the team management have a significant say in selection matters. After chief selector MSK Prasad clarified that Nair was spoken to at length over his omission, Harbhajan Singh slammed the logic behind dropping the Karnataka batsman. Facebook said Wednesday it is in touch with the Indian government "to share preliminary information" pertaining to a recent breach that had impacted 50 million accounts on the social networking platform. The US-based firm, which earlier this week was asked by the IT ministry to provide an update on the country-specific impact of the breach, said it is in the midst of working through the details of users affected in India. "We are still working through the details of impacted users in India and will release more information once we have concluded our investigations," a Facebook spokesperson said responding to an e-mail query by PTI. The IT ministry sources said the company has written to them on the issue but did not divulge details. "We are in touch with Government of India, to share preliminary information about the security issue we announced on September 28. We have taken immediate action and informed all our users, advertisers and secured their accounts," the Facebook spokesperson said. Last week, Facebook had said hackers had exploited a vulnerability in its system, impacting up to 50 million accounts. The US-based firm did not break down the country-specific impact at that time. Facebook, which has over 200 million users in India, counts the country among its largest userbases globally. Mark Zuckerberg, in a press call, had said the company's engineering team, on September 25, found an attack affecting up to 50 million accounts on Facebook. "The attackers exploited a vulnerability in the code of the 'View As' feature which is a privacy feature that lets people see what their Facebook profile would look like to another person," he added. He had noted that since the investigation is still early, Facebook hasn't yet been able to determine if there's specific targeting. Stating that hackers had tried to access profile information fields -- like name, gender and hometown, Zuckerberg had said "we do not yet know if any private information was accessed that way". Facebook had said it fixed the vulnerability and also informed law enforcement. Earlier in the year too, Facebook had courted controversy when UK-based data mining firm Cambridge Analytica was accused of harvesting personal data of 87 million global users of the social networking platform, illegally, to influence polls in several countries. The company had drawn flak on the issue from policymakers across the world, including the Indian government that had shot off two notices to Facebook over the data breach. Zuckerberg during a joint hearing of the US Senate Judiciary and Commerce committees had apologised for the "major breach of trust" and promised to take steps to protect user data. In response to the first notice of the Indian government, Facebook had admitted that nearly 5.62 lakh people were "potentially affected" by the data breach incident. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Wednesday accused the of using force against farmers to end their agitation at the Delhi-UP border and said they have been again misled by the BJP's "false promises, jumlas and political lollipops". Dubbing the as a "symbol of cruelty" on farmers, chief spokesperson said the time has come for the government to answer questions of those who feed the nation. He said the treatment meted out to the protesting farmers at the Delhi- border on Gandhi Jayanti symbolises the treatment to them in states ruled by the BJP where deep wounds are inflicted on them by using bullets and batons and "false and hollow promises" given to them due to which their patience is running out. The said tear gas shells were lobbed at the agitating farmers and they were lathi-charged and that attempts are now being made to lure them with false promises to end their agitation. The government Wednesday announced a 6 per cent hike in wheat support price to Rs 1,840 per quintal and up to 21 per cent increase in other rabi crops, a move that will give farmers Rs 626.35 billion additional income and help contain their simmering discontent over high input cost and low returns. "Wherever the BJP is in power, be it the central government or the states, the farmers have been cheated with false and hollow promises. How long will the lure them with political lollipops. Time has come for the Modi government to speak up and answer questions raised by farmers," he said. Surjewala alleged that the government is giving them mere assurances and "political lollipops" and false promises and "it seems Modi ji wants to build a 'Kisan-mukt Bharat'." He cited the use of force against farmers agitating for their demands in the BJP-ruled states of Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand. "On the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, it was a naked show of violence by the Modi government against protesting farmers on the Delhi-UP border. After attacking farmers with lathis, tear-gas and water canons, the Modi and Yogi governments returned the farmers with a bouquet of false promises. The time has come when the government answers questions about the demands of those feeding the country," he said. The Congress said the Modi government came to power in 2014 with the promise fixing the minimum support price for crops at cost plus 50 per cent, and asked, "Why this promise has become a 'jumla' (election rhetoric)?" Surjewala quoted who had said during the British rule that "if justice is not done to farmers, the crores of starved but awakened farmers will create such a revolution in the country that even the armed forces of the most powerful government will fail to control that revolution". "These words of aptly applies on the present anti- Modi government," he said. The Congress alleged that only one voice is heard in every corner of this country that " is anti-farmer" and said the patience of farmers is running out. He said the situation can be gauged from the fact that on birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, when farmers were being lathi-charged in Delhi, Ranveer Singh from Bhiwani in breathed his last behind bars on account of his failure to repay a loan of Rs 9 lakhs. "Nothing can be more tragic on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi," he said. Citing incident of cruelty towards farmers, he said in Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh, half a dozen farmers were killed in police firing, in Dahod in Gujarat, innocent farmers were riddled with bullets, in Chomu and Sriganganagar in Rajasthan, farmers had to face police firing and in Aurangabad in unarmed sugarcane farmers faced police bullets. In 2017, farmers from suffering the onslaught of severe draught, agitated at for two months and also staged dharna in front of the PM residence and registered their protest by consuming human excreta, but prime minister Modi did not even meet them. In March 2018, 50,000 farmers from Nashik in reached travelling a distance of 200 Kms to knock at the doors of the BJP Government, but the BJP Government refused to acknowledge their promises. He said as per the RBI report, the Modi Government waived off a loan of Rs 3170 billion outstanding against crony industrialists between April 2014 and April 2018. In such a scenario, he alleged, the government is reluctant to waive loan of Rs 62,000 crore of farmers of this country. "This government has broken the backbone of farmers by increasing the diesel rate to a totally unreasonable level. On 16.5.2014, the diesel was at Rs 55.49 per litre whereas today it is at Rs 75.25 per litre, an exorbitant increase of Rs 19.76 per litre. The PM Crop Scheme has become a profit reaping scheme for the private companies, he alleged the farmers received a compensation of only Rs 56.50 billion under the scheme, whereas the companies made a profit of Rs 148.28 billion through premium. A fire broke out in the pharmacy of the state-run Medical College and Hospital here Wednesday following which around 250 patients have been evacuated from the premises, fire officials said. No one has been injured in the the blaze that broke out at 8 am in the dispensary located on the ground floor. Ten fire tenders were engaged to douse the fire, officials said. Thick smoke was seen billowing from the ground floor of the hospital's main building where the pharmacy is housed. Medicines stocked in the dispensary have been reduced to ashes. West Bengal Minister of State for Health Chandrima Bhattacharya told reporters that the 250 patients admitted to cardiology, general medicine and haematology wards have been shifted to other wards in the hospital as well as other hospitals. Many medicines were destroyed in the fire, but the patients will not face any problems, she assured. A man whose father was admitted in the hospital said his father died following the fire outbreak. "I brought him (father) downstairs (after the fire outbreak). After some time, I took him to the emergency department (of the hospital) where he was given oxygen but father died," the man claimed. A cancer patient who was admitted to the hospital said, "I was scared after seeing the smoke. There was heavy rush at the staircase. I felt suffocated". Another patient said she left the "area" in another patient's medical trolley. City mayor and Fire Services Minister Sovan Chatterjee, who visited the hospital, told reporters that the fire was brought under control. He said the hospital was equipped to handle fire mishaps, which helped the fire brigade control the blaze quickly. When asked about the source of the fire, Chatterjee said, "It will be known after the forensic examination." He said the patients were shifted from affected areas and arrangements were made for their treatment. On the availability of medicines in the hospital, he said, "There is no cause for panic. There may be some problems but it will be temporary. Arrangements will be made to supply medicines". Fire Brigade DG Jagmohan said the hospital had a fire fighting system in place and water was available in the hydrants which helped control the blaze. "Since this is a huge medical facility and many patients come here everyday, we did not want to take any chances," a senior fire official said. Fire brigade personnel broke the wall at some places to get inside the affected areas. Senior Congress leader Pradip Bhattacharya demanded a high-level probe into the incident. BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said the collapse of Majerhat Bridge, fire at Bagree Market, Tuesday's explosion at Nagerbazar and the fire at the medical college were not isolated incidents. "It proves that no one has any control over the administration. They are only (busy) doing politics in everything", he alleged. The Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, commonly referred to as Calcutta Medical College, was established in 1835 and is the second oldest medical college in India after Ecole de Medecine of Puducherry. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The first India-Indonesia Interfaith Dialogue, decided during the maiden visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi here, began Wednesday in the Indonesian island of Java in a bid to promote pluralism and eradicate radicalism. The dialogue comprised a forum discussion, visits to places of worship, and dialogues between Hindu, Islamic, Christian and Buddhist religious leaders of both the countries, the Indian Embassy said in a statement. A seven member Indian delegation led by Minister of State of External Affairs M J Akbar attended the three-day dialogue, 'Sharing of Best Practices, Lessons Learnt and Way Forward' at Yogyakarta, a city in Java known for its traditional arts and cultural heritage, it said. The Indonesian delegation at the India-Indonesia Interfaith Dialogue (IIID) was led by Vice Foreign Minister of Foreign Affairs A M Fachir. During Prime Minister Modi's talks with Indonesian President Joko Widodo, the two leaders had agreed to organise the Interfaith Dialogue in Indonesia in early October 2018, which will be followed by a similar dialogue in India next year to promote pluralism and eradicate radicalism. It is being held as an innovative mechanism to promote pluralism and tolerance, and to provide a platform for Indonesian and Indian religious scholars, youth and civil society leaders to join hands in improving relations across religions and cultures, combat prejudice, tackle radicalism and build conducive conditions for long-term peace, the statement said. The participating delegates visit Prambanam and Borobodur Temples, along with Zen Ling Gong Temple, Huria Kristen Batak Protestan Church, Santo Antonius CatholicChurch and Syuhada Mosque in Yogyakarta, it said. During the discussions, delegates shared their common commitment to ancient philosophies of 'BhinnekaTinggalEka' or 'Unity in Diversity' and 'VasudhaivaKutumbakam' or 'The world is one family', the statement said. Earlier, Akbar delivered a memorial lecture at the prestigious Gajamadah University to mark the beginning of the year-long celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. He also unveiled a photo exhibit on Gandhi and inaugurated a film festival on movies and documentaries showcasing the life of the towering Indian leader. Akbar welcomed the timing of the maiden IIID to coincide with the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Gandhi, stating that there could be no better symbol for Interfaith Dialogue than Gandhi. The minister extended an invitation for Indonesia to attend the second IIID in India in 2019. According to the Pew Research Center, Indonesia has the world's largest Muslim population. India is home to the world's second largest Muslim population. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his cabinet colleagues will visit various foreign countries from October 17 to mobilise funds from the expatriate community to rebuild the flood-battered state. Each minister would visit different countries from October 17 to 21, Vijayan told reporters here. The objective was to consolidate and collect aid from non-resident Keralites (NRKs) there, Vijayan told reporters here. "The major agenda before the government is to rebuild the state with the support of people from all walks of life. Mobilisation of funds is a major challenge to achieve the target...that's why the ministers have decided to visit foreign countries to mobilise funds from NRKs. The expatriates have already contributed to the Chief Minister's relief fund in a remarkable way," he said. He also expressed hope that expatriates could play a vital role in rebuilding the state, which had suffered huge damage in the torrential rains that lashed the state over a month ago claiming hundreds of lives and leaving a trail of destruction. "The ministers will visit 17 foreign countries including that in the Gulf and in Europe," he said. Vijayan would visit Abdu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah on October 17, 19 and 20, according to an official release. The chief minister said the state has received sanction to seek technical support from the Netherlands for reconstruction of Kuttanad, located below the mean sea level. According to the Rapid Disaster Need Assessment conducted by the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, the total loss incurred by various sectors of the state was to the tune of Rs 25,050 crore, Vijayan said. However, the actual loss in the industries and trade sectors had not been assessed by the ADB and the World Bank team, he said. A large number of people have to be rehabilitated, he said, adding that the price of land for rehabilitation of such people would alone come to around Rs 400 crore. "The government is conducting an elaborate study in this regard and has decided to submit a memorandum to the Centre seeking a special package for rehabilitation initiatives," the chief minister added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) For the first time, India will deport seven Rohingya immigrants, who have been staying in Assam illegally, to their home country Myanmar on Thursday, officials said. The immigrants were under detention in Cachar Central Jail in Assam's Silchar district since 2012, when they were detained by police. They will be handed over to Myanmar authorities at Moreh border post in Manipur Thursday, a Home Ministry official said. Consular access had been given to Myanmar diplomats, who confirmed the identity of the immigrants, the official said. Another official said the confirmation of the Myanmarese citizenship of the illegal immigrants came after the government of the neighbouring country verified their addresses in Rakhine State. This is for the first time Rohingya immigrants would be sent back to Myanmar from India. In Guwahati, Assam Additional Director General of Police (Border) Bhaskarjyoti Mahanta said deportation of foreign nationals have been going on for sometime and earlier in the year "we have deported several Bangladeshi, Myanmarese and Pakistani nationals". The seven immigrants were apprehended on July 29, 2012, for violating the Foreigners Act. Those to be deported are Md Jamal, Mohbul Khan, Jamal Hussain, Md Yonus, Sabir Ahmed, Rahim Uddin and Md Salam and are in the age bracket of 26-32 years, a Cachar district official said. The Indian government had informed Parliament last year that over 14,000 Rohingya people, registered with the UN refugee agency UNHCR, stay in India. However, aid agencies estimate there are about 40,000 Rohingya people in the country. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims, described by the UN as the most persecuted minority in the world, fled their homes last year to escape an alleged crackdown by the Myanmarese military. Human rights group Amnesty International has blamed Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and the country's government for "burying their heads in the sand over the horrors unfolding in Rakhine State". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US on Wednesday urged its allies not to enter into transactions with Russia and warned that it would trigger American sanctions, a day after it was reported that India was planning to purchase multi-billion S-400 missile defense system from Moscow. Late last month, the Trump administration imposed sanctions under Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act or CAATSA, which was signed into law last August, on China for purchasing fighter jets and missile defense system from Russia. The CAATSA law tries to push back against Russia's malign activity around the world. "We urge all of our allies and partners to forgo transactions with Russia that would trigger sanctions under CAATSA," a State Department Spokesperson told PTI when asked about India's plan to purchase multi-billion S-400 missile defense system from Russia. "The Administration has indicated that a focus area for the implementation of CAATSA Section 231 is new or qualitative upgrades in capability including the S-400 air and missile defense system," the spokesperson said. According to a media report, India and Russia will sign a deal for the multi-billion-dollar S-400 surface-to-air missile system this week. The signing of the deal for Moscow's most advanced air defence system will be overseen by Russian president Vladimir Putin, who is visiting New Delhi on October 4-5 for the annual India-Russia summit, the report said quoting a top Kremlin official said. "The President is trying to develop a relationship and change that, but we've not been successful, at least to date," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told NBC in an interview. In September, a senior administration official told reporters that purchase of major military system like multi-billion S-400 missile defense system would be considered as a "significant transaction and thus has a potential" for CAATSA sanctions. The official emphasized that the ultimate target of these sanctions was Russia. The CAATSA sanctions in this context are not intended to undermine the defence capabilities of any particular country. "They are instead aimed at imposing costs upon Russia in response to its malign activities," the official had said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly Pramod Sawant Wednesday rejected a notice moved last month by the Congress seeking his removal from the post, saying it is "not maintainable". In his order, the speaker said such a notice has to be issued either when House is summoned or a session is in operation. The Congress MLAs had not specified any reason for removal of the Speaker in their notice moved on September 21. Opposition leader Chandrakant Kavlekar had said, "We cannot discuss the grounds for giving notice right now. When it comes up for discussion on the floor before voting, we will disclose our grounds". The notice was moved at a time Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar is absent from office for a long period of time due to ill health. He is currently undergoing treatment for a pancreatic ailment at the AIIMS in Delhi. The Congress had earlier demanded a floor test claiming that there is no coordination among the alliance partners of the state government, and that the governance has suffered. The notice was issued under Rule 243 of Rules and Procedures and Conduct of Business of the Legislative Assembly of Goa, read with Article 179C of the Constitution. Rule 243 states provisions for moving a resolution to ask for permission of the House to discuss about impeachment of the Speaker. "Perusal of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business and Constitution of India, as well as the perusal of the opinion of State Advocate General, it becomes amply clear that such a notice for removal of Speaker, moved at a time when neither the House has been summoned by the Governor nor a session is in operation, cannot be considered," the speaker said in an order issued to the Secretary, Legislature. Leader of Opposition may be accordingly informed that the said notice has been rejected on the grounds of non-maintainability, reads the order. Sawant had sought the opinion of Goa Advocate General (AG) Dattaprasad Lawande on the matter. "No summons has been issued till date, and as per my information, as on date as well, the House has not been summoned. Therefore, the notice in question cannot be proceeded with as of now," the AG had said. In 40-member House, Congress has 16 MLAs, BJP 14, Goa Forward Party and Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (3 each), Independents (3) and NCP 1. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Amid reports of China ramping up its air defence infrastructure in Tibet, Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa Wednesday said the Indian Air Force is monitoring the situation and has plans to counter any threat. Responding to a question on the issue, Dhanoa said the government has sanctioned construction of the next generation hardened aircraft shelters in far-flung areas. "We are monitoring the development of infrastructure," he said. China has always been saying its airports in are coming up for regional connectivity and not for offensive operations, Dhanoa said. "We also have initiated measures - like the government has sanctioned construction of next generation hardened aircraft shelters. On our side, we are making adequate (preparation). Also, we have a plan to counter them," he told a press conference here. On reports about the presence of over 50 Chinese aircraft in the region, Dhanoa said it is not a threat as India also has a number of air bases on the eastern front. "If you look at our bases, starting from Leh, Thoise... as you come down to Adampur, Halwara, Ambala, Chandigarh and carry on up to Chabwa, you work down the number of aircraft we have got. So, are only 50 aircraft in a threat? The answer is no," the IAF chief said. The government has asked Tibetan spiritual leader Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje, who is in the United States, to return to India as desired by his followers, officials said Wednesday. The Cabinet Committee on Security, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has also decided to allot a piece of land to the Karmapa in Delhi to construct his monastery. The government has asked the Karmapa to return to India as his followers want him to stay in the country, an official privy to the development said. However, the official said, the Tibetan spiritual leader is believed to be reluctant to return to India as he wants unrestricted movement within the country as well as abroad. Currently, he is allowed to travel anywhere in India, except the Rumtek monastery in Sikkim, but he has to take the permission of authorities for his travel due to objections raised by the intelligence agencies. The Karmapa is upset that he has to take permission every time he wants to go anywhere, unlike the Dalai Lama, who is free to travel anywhere without restriction, the official said. Dorje uses a Dominican Republic passport for his travel abroad. The CCS has decided to allot a piece of land to the Karmapa in Delhi, possibly in the Dwarka area, another official said. The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, also the chairman of the Delhi Development Authority, is scouting for land and is expected to decide the place soon. The Karmapa wants to build a monastery as his current abode in Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh is small, the official said. The Sikkimese Buddhists who follow the Khagyu sect recognise the 32-year-old Ogyen Trinley Dorje as the real heir and successor of the 16th Karmapa who passed away in 1981. However, the central government had banned entry of all claimants to the title of Karmapa to the Rumtek monastery in East Sikkim in 1994. The Sikkim government has written several times and passed resolutions, requesting the Centre to allow Dorje to make his claim as the 17th Karmapa. The Centre has, however, not given any decision on it yet. Dorje, head of the Karma Khagyu (Black Hat) tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, was born in Tibet and had escaped to India through Nepal at the age of 14. He reached the Tibetan exile quarters at McLeod Ganj on January 5, 2000. He is recognised by the Dalai Lama. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The government Wednesday approved the signing of an agreement to promote cooperation between the small and medium enterprises of India and Russia, which will open more opportunities for Indian MSME sector by way of new markets, joint ventures, sharing of best practices and technology collaborations. The decision was taken at a meeting of the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi here. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be signed during the upcoming visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India. Putin will be on a two-day visit here beginning tomorrow to hold the annual India-Russia summit with the Indian Prime Minister, with a focus on further boosting bilateral ties and deliberate on a range of regional and global issues including US sanctions on import of Iranian crude oil. The pact was signed between National Small Industries Corporation Ltd. (NSIC) - a Public Sector Undertaking of the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) and JSC - Russian Small & Medium Business Corporation (RSMB Corporation). "The objective of the MoU is to promote cooperation between the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) of the two countries. It would provide a structured framework and enabling environment to the MSME sector of the two countries to understand each other's strengths, markets, technologies, policies etc," an official statement said. The agreement aims to enhance enterprise to enterprise cooperation and help initiate sustainable business alliances in terms of technology transfers, joint ventures and business partnerships in MSME sector between the two countries. "Cooperation in the field of capacity building, rapid incubation for entrepreneurship development, exposure to each other's market by encouraging participation in exhibitions are also envisaged in this MoU," the statement said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The DMK,which has sought constitution of a special investigation team to probe graft charges against Local Administration Minister S P Velumani, Wednesday submitted in the Madras High Court that the governor is the competent authority to sanction prosecution in the matter. Countering the argument of Advocate General Vijay Narayan before Justice Jagadish Chandira that sanction for prosecuting the minister has to be obtained from the government, senior counsel N R Elango, appearing for the petitioner, DMK leader R S Bharathi, said it is not so. As the government itself is accused of corruption, the sanction for prosecution has to be obtained from the governor, Elango submitted. The advocate general then said he was ready to argue on who the sanctioning authority was. Vijay Narayan, appearing for the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption, argued that according to the latest amendment to the Prevention of Corruption Act, sanction for prosecuting a public servant has to be obtained from the government. The judge then posted the matter for further arguments on October 26. The DMK had levelled corruption charges against Chief Minister K Palaniswami, his deputy O Panneerselvam and several ministers, including Velumani, and moved the Madras High Court in this regard. In July, the Rajya Sabha and later the Lok Sabha passed the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2018. The amendments, which have come into force, among other provisions, seeks to punish both bribe-givers and takers. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Nearly a fortnight after he was jailed in a cheque bounce case, a 64-year-old debt-ridden farmer collapsed in a prison here and died, officials said on Wednesday. Ranvir Singh had complained of uneasiness in chest before he collapsed in Bhiwani jail on Monday. He was rushed to a hospital here, where he died, police said. Initially his family refused to accept the body for cremation or join the magisterial inquiry. His kin agreed to a post-mortem and to conduct the last rites only after the district administration acceded to some of their demands, including a loan waiver and a job for a family member. "The (deceased's) kin agreed to inquest under CrPC. The post-mortem examination was conducted on Wednesday," Superintendent of Police Ganga Ram Punia said. Deputy Commissioner Anshaj Singh said Ranvir was sent to jail on September 21 following his conviction in a cheque bounce case. Ranvir had taken a loan from a cooperative bank here many years ago, he said. "He was convicted earlier and sent to jail on September 21. On Monday, he collapsed and later died. The post-mortem examination report says that he most probably died due to cardiac arrest," the deputy commissioner said. Singh said the district administration will recommend to the state government to waive the deceased farmer's loan. A kin of the deceased has also been promised a job. In Ranvir's village, locals said the district administration has also promised his family a compensation of Rs 5 lakh, but the officials remained tight-lipped about it. Ranvir had taken a loan of Rs 1.50 lakh, which swelled to over Rs 9 lakh by 2016, officials said. His cheques for loan repayment were dishonoured, after which the bank initiated proceedings against him. He was convicted by a trial court over two years ago and his appeal against the conviction was dismissed by a higher court last month. On Tuesday, a farmers' body held a protest in Ranvir's village demanding a compensation of Rs 25 lakh for his family. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Expressing dissatisfaction with a Tamil Nadu government report on deaths of prisoners, the Madras High Court observed that a detailed study was needed to improve medical and other facilities in jails, and appointed senior advocate R Vaigai as amicus curiae to assist the court. A bench comprising Justices S Manikumar and Subramonium Prasad passed the order on a PIL initiated by it on its own as directed by the Supreme Court in 2017. The Tamil Nadu Home department in its report said that between 2012 and 2016, a total of 109 prisoners died of illness and old age, two due to accidental falls and 22 others allegedly committed suicide. The bench noted that the report neither mentioned whether the prisoners who passed way due to illness died inside the prison or not nor indicated the medical facilities available in jails. "Besides, the number of prisoners who committed suicide appears to be more," it observed. The court appointed Vaigai as the amicus curiae and ordered the governments of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry to furnish to her all particulars on the medical facilities available in prisons as well as the health and other related schemes for inmates as mentioned in the apex court judgement. It directed Tamil Nadu Prisons ADGP Ashutosh Shukla to nominate a person to co-operate with the senior advocate and posted the PIL for further hearing on October 8. The bench said considering Article 21 of the Constitution which envisages right to life with dignity, and taking note of the reports, it was of the view that the issue required detailed study. The Supreme Court in its September 15, 2017 judgement had requested the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court to register the public interest litigation (PIL) petition with a view to identifying the next of kin of prisoners who had admittedly died unnatural death between 2012 and 2015 and even thereafter as revealed by the National Crime Records Bureau, and award suitable compensation. In its report, the state government said there were 157 deaths of convict prisoners during 2012-2016, out of which in 134 cases, reports have been submitted by the judicial magistrates. It said reports were awaited in 23 deaths. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Madras High Court Wednesday granted interim stay on a state government order cancelling land allotment of 342.2 acres to the Vedanta group's copper plant in Tuticorin following protests against the unit and killing of 13 people in police firing in May. Justice V Parthibhan ordered notice to the State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) chairman, seeking his explanation by October 25 and posted the case for hearing on that date. Government advocate S Angappan took notice on behalf of the SIPCOT chairman and other officials. The judge said it appeared that the chairman had passed the "impugned order out of haste disregarding the established legal norms that normally followed in such matters ostensibly on the basis of public perception". The public perception in the normal circumstances ought to be subordinated to the fundamental and constitutional rights of the citizen of this country, unless such perception is premised on a realistic basis and seeks to achieve high constitutional goal. Apparently from the impugned order, nothing of the sort could be inferred, the judge said. Petitioner Satyapriya, an official of the Vedanta Ltd, (Sterlite Copper Unit) at SICOT Industrial complex, submitted that the Centre had given formal approval to the firm's proposal for development, operation and maintenance of the sector specific special economic zone. "The chairman can cancel the allotment only if there was non-compliance of terms and conditions of the allotment order or lease deed, including non-payment of dues," it was submitted. The Environment and Forest ministry had accorded environmental clearance for the unit's expansion, "expressly recording that public hearing (PH) was not required as the project is located in the notified SIPCOT Industrial area". The petitioner claimed that the chairman had earlier asked the company to commence construction activities for the expansion projects and furnish a detailed implementation plan. The cancellation of land allotment for its expansion project for manufacture of copper anodes, phosphoric acid and sulphuric acid was "illegal and arbitrary". The order was issued even without the petitioner committing any breach or default. No independent inquiry was conducted before cancelling the order. The abrupt cancellation on May 29 without any intimation was contrary to the procedure previously adopted, the petitioner said. The plant would generate employment for 25,000 people and Rs 1,100 crore was invested in the development, it was submitted. "As the allotment of land for the proposed expansion has been made by SIPCOT, in larger public interest, the land allotment made by SIPCOT for proposed expansion of copper smelter plant (Phase-2) by Vedanta Ltd is hereby cancelled," SIPCOT said in its communication to Vedanta group on May 29. The cancellation of land allotment for the proposed expansion of the Sterlite Copper plant came a day after the state government ordered the state Pollution Control Board to "seal and permanently close" the existing unit. "The cancellation of allotment of 342.22 acres of land has been made in larger public interest and this has been communicated to the company," an official release had said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Wednesday appeared inclined to permit re-development of six south Delhi colonies, including Sarojini Nagar and Nauroji Nagar, if the project gets all the requisite approvals as per law. A bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice V K Rao said it will pass orders clarifying what the Centre and the National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC), which is carrying out part of the work, would have to do. After the matter was over, Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand, appearing for the Ministry, said the project can go on once it receives all the approvals, including forest clearance, as required under the law. Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, appearing for residents of the areas in question who are opposing the project since it would lead to felling of several hundreds of trees, said since the central government has revised the project, therefore, it will need to get fresh forest and clearances for the six colonies. The court reserved its order after hearing arguments on behalf of all stakeholders, including the ministry, residents of the area and NBCC, regarding the six colonies of Sarojini Nagar, Netaji Nagar, Thyagaraja Nagar, Kasturba Nagar, Mohammadpur and Srinivaspuri. It said it will separately consider the redevelopment of the seventh colony -- Nauroji Nagar -- on a later date. The Ministry and NBCC told the bench that they have made several changes to the project to ensure the number of trees to be felled and water consumption in the area are reduced. Apart from that, road infrastructure would be "augmented" to accommodate the increase in vehicular traffic, they added. The ministry in its affidavit, filed through central government standing counsel Ripudaman Singh Bhardwaj, said it has reduced the proposed number of dwelling units in the project area by 739 to reduce the felling of trees. Under the re-worked plan, now there will be 24,928 dwelling units in the area, it said adding that changes have been made in the layout plan, architectural designs and parking spaces to bring down the number of trees to be felled. Subsequent to the change in plan, now only around 7,000 trees would be affected by the project as against over 13,000 under the earlier design, the affidavit said and added that it might be possible to translocate most of the affected trees. The ministry and NBCC have also said redevelopment of the area would lead to conservation of water as this resource was being wasted in huge quantities presently due to poor and inefficient plumbing systems there. The court was hearing PILs challenging the terms of reference (ToR) and the environmental clearances granted to the housing projects at seven colonies -- Sarojini Nagar, Nauroji Nagar, Netaji Nagar, Thyagaraja Nagar, Kasturba Nagar, Mohammadpur and Srinivaspuri -- claiming that it would result in the felling of around 16,500 trees. Over 2,000 trees have already been felled in Nauroji Nagar where the NBCC plans to build a commercial hub which will include a World Trade Centre. The bench had on August 30 directed that status quo be maintained regarding the project till the Centre reconsiders the environment clearances given to the work in the six colonies, after the court was told that the clearance was granted on the basis of an Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) report that had "copy-pasted" its contents from another project report in Tamil Nadu. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Wednesday pulled up the AAP government for not filling up the vacant posts of family court presiding officers despite nine recommendations made by it. A bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice V K Rao said the high court had made nine recommendations for appointment to the vacant posts, but till date nothing has been done and no reasons have been given for the same. It directed the Delhi government to file an affidavit indicating the reasons for not appointing anyone to the post of presiding officer in the family courts in several District Courts, including that of Saket here, and listed the matter for further hearing on October 12. The bench said three high court judges were burdened with extra family court matters due to the vacancy and if the appointments had been made, then they could have been allocated other matters. The Delhi High Court is presently functioning with 33 judges as against a sanctioned strength of 60. The bench also highlighted the issue of vacancies in the Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA) which were also not filled up despite the high court recommendations. It said the vacancies have led to the "legal aid system getting derailed" and delay in payments to legal aid lawyers as well as disbursement of compensation. The bench told the Delhi government that if appropriate steps are not taken to fill up the vacancies, in the family courts and DSLSA, then the high court would be forced to take coercive action. The court was hearing two PILs on the issue of vacancies in family courts. One PIL was filed by a woman whose divorce petition has been pending in a family court since January this year and the other was initiated by the high court itself after getting a letter on the issue from one of its judges. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court Wednesday sought response of the Election Commission (EC) on a plea by AAP MLAs, facing allegations of having held office-of-profit, challenging the poll panel's decision not to allow them to summon witnesses in the matter. Justice Siddharth Mridul also sought reply of complainant Prashant Patel on whose plea the EC had earlier recommended disqualification of 20 AAP MLAs. The court orally asked the EC not to do anything in proceedings scheduled before the poll panel tomorrow and thereafter, till the next date of hearing, November 1. The court was hearing a petition by Delhi Law Minister and AAP MLA Kailash Gahlot and others challenging the EC's September 25 decision rejecting the legislator's plea to summon government officials as witnesses in the office-of-profit matter pending before the poll panel. Gahlot was also present in the proceeding before the high court. During the hearing, senior advocate KV Vishwanathan, appearing for MLAs, said they wanted to examine witnesses regarding the documents which are in record. He, along with advocate Sameer Vashisht, said their grievance was also related to jurisdiction as during the proceeding before the EC, one of the three-member panel withdrew himself in the middle of the hearing and when the order came, he had signed it. How can he sign the order when he did not rejoin the hearing, the counsel argued. They sought to declare that the MLAs are entitled to summon and examine the officials of the Delhi government. The judge observed that a person has a right to summon witness and the EC can contain him to what is relevant to the case but how can the poll panel preclude him from summoning. Senior advocate Arvind Nigam, representing the EC, said the documents were already on record and the legislators wanted interpretation of those documents by the officials, whom they are seeking to be summoned as witnesses. He added that every aspect is being challenged by the MLAs just to delay the process. EC had on January 19 this year recommended the disqualification of the 20 AAP MLAs, accused of holding offices-of-profit as they were appointed parliamentary secretaries to ministers in the Delhi government in March 2015. This was done soon after they were elected to the Delhi Assembly. The high court had on August 20 allowed the MLAs to move EC for permission to summon witnesses and had asked the poll panel to decide it as per the law. On March 23, the high court had set aside the disqualification of the 20 AAP MLAs by the poll panel for holding 'office-of-profit' and had termed the recommendation as "vitiated" and "bad in law". It had directed the EC to hear the issue afresh. In September 2016, the high court had ruled against their appointment as parliamentary secretaries. Apart from Gahlot, the other MLAs including Alka Lamba, Adarsh Shastri, Sanjeev Jha, Rajesh Gupta, Vijendra Garg, Praveen Kumar, Sharad Kumar, Madan Lal, Shiv Charan Goyal, Sarita Singh, Naresh Yadav, Rajesh Rishi, were disqualified. AAP legislators Anil Kumar, Som Dutt, Avtar Singh, Sukhvir Singh Dala, Manoj Kumar, Nitin Tyagi and Jarnail Singh were also disqualified. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) 22:59 The Central Bureau of Investigation's decision not to challenge the discharge granted to Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh alleged fake encounter case in 2014 was a 'conscious' and 'reasonable' move, the agency told the Bombay high court on Wednesday. Seeking dismissal of two Public Interest Litigations questioning the CBI's decision, the central agency said the pleas are 'politically motivated' and 'publicity stunts'. The petitioner's counsel, however, argued that the CBI had changed its stand on Amit Shah after the change of government at the Centre in 2014. CBI Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh told the court that the investigating agency had studied the trial court's order granting discharge to Shah as well as various subsequent orders of appellate courts upholding the same. Two PILs were filed in the HC urging it to ask the CBI why it had chosen not to challenge Shah's discharge, though the agency had filed revision applications against the discharge of two other persons in the case. A bench of Justices Ranjit More and Bharati Dangre Wednesday heard the PILs, filed by the Bombay Lawyers' Association (BLA) and a local journalist. The bench has reserved its order. A special CBI court had in 2014 discharged Shah in the case of alleged fake encounter killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh in 2005. "After going through these orders (of the trial court and of appellate courts), we decided that the order of discharge did not require any judicial review and hence, we took a conscious decision to not file any applications challenging Shah's discharge from the case," Singh said. He made these submissions while opposing the two PILs. Appearing for the BLA, senior advocate Dushyant Dave urged the court to intervene in the case. He argued that the CBI had been roped in by the Supreme Court to probe the killings of Sheikh, his wife Kausar Bi, and their aide Tulsiram Prajapati because the apex court had reposed its trust in the independent agency. "Hence, the CBI should have been impartial and treated all accused persons in the same manner. Why did it then challenge the discharge granted to police officers N K Amin and Dalpat Singh Rathod, but went quiet in Shah's case?" Dave questioned. He said the CBI had opposed the discharge plea filed by Shah before a special court in the city in April 2014, but changed its stand after Shah was discharged in December 2014. "They had called him (Shah) one of the main conspirators in the case at that time. However, in December 2014, Shah was granted discharge in the case and the CBI changed its stand on his role. "That is because the general elections took place and the government at the Centre changed. But, isn't the CBI supposed to be impartial irrespective of who is in power at the Centre?" Dave asked. Countering Dave, Singh said there was no law that makes it must for the CBI to file appeals or revision applications in case of every discharge. He urged the bench to dismiss the pleas saying that the same were 'politically motivated' and that they were 'publicity stunts'. Singh argued that since Shah had been granted a discharge by a special CBI court in December 2014, several pleas challenging the same were filed in the HC, but they were either withdrawn or dismissed. "The SC too had upheld the dismissal of several such pleas challenging Shah's discharge, and therefore there was no need for the Bombay HC to entertain the above PILs," Singh argued. He informed the bench that Shah's discharge was first challenged in Bombay HC through a revision application filed by Sohrabuddin Sheikh's brother Rubabuddin, which he withdrew on October 5, 2015. A single-judge bench of the Bombay high court had allowed Rubabuddin to withdraw the application on November 23, 2015, after it was convinced that he was doing so voluntarily. Soon after, one Rajesh Kamble filed a revision application against the discharge granted to Shah, in his capacity of being an 'alert citizen'. The HC, however, dismissed his plea on October 21, 2015 questioning his locus standi (his right, or the capacity in which he could have filed the plea) in the case. A writ petition was then filed by social activist Harsh Mander in the HC challenging the discharge and questioning withdrawal of the application by Rubabuddin. That plea too was dismissed by the HC and the dismissal was upheld by the Supreme Court in August 2017. Sohrabuddin Sheikh and Kausar Bi were killed in an alleged fake encounter in 2005 by the Gujarat police. Prajapati was killed in another such encounter in 2006 by the Gujarat and Rajasthan police. Of the 38 people charged by the CBI in the case, 16, including Shah and all senior officers of Gujarat and Rajasthan police, have been discharged in the case by the trial court and the Bombay HC. -- PTI Infrastructure major Ltd (HCC) Wednesday said the company, in a joint venture with Hyundai Development Corporation (HDC), has been awarded a Rs 21.26 billion Mumbai Coastal Road Project contract by the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM). "HCC's share in the joint venture (JV) is 55 per cent (Rs 11.69 billion) and the project is to be completed in four years (48 months)," the company said in a BSE filing. "The scope of work includes design and construction of road, bridges, interchanges including reclamation and associated works between Baroda Palace near Haji Ali and the Worli end of Bandra Worli Sea Link," it added. HCC said MCGM has envisaged the Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP) along the western seafront of the city to decongest existing roads. Shares of HCC were trading 2.78 per cent up at Rs 11.48 apiece on BSE. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) will hold public hearings in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case from February 18 to 21 next year at The Hague, a statement issued by the principal judicial organ of the United Nations said Wednesday. Jadhav, 47, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on spying charges in April 2017. India moved the ICJ in May the same year against the verdict. The world court has halted Jadhav's execution on India's appeal pending the final verdict by it. Both India and Pakistan have already submitted their detailed pleas and responses in the world court. "The hearings will be streamed live and on demand (VOD) in English and French on the Court's website as well as on UN Web TV, the United Nations online television channel," said the press release issued by the ICJ. Pakistan says its security forces arrested Jadhav from Balochistan province in March 2016 after he reportedly entered the country from Iran. In its submission to the ICJ, Pakistan had stated that Jadhav is not an ordinary person as he had entered the country with the intent of spying and carrying out sabotage activities. India denies all the charges and maintains that Jadhav was kidnapped from Iran where he had business interests after retiring from the Navy and that he has no links with the government. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Former President Pranab Mukherjee Wednesday underlined the importance of inclusiveness in nation building and said the country should move forward by accommodating all kinds of views and ideas. Also, he said the country needs to tap the potential of its youth in order to reap the demographic dividend. "Our objective has been 'Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah' (May all be prosperous and happy)... it encompasses all. It's all inclusive. That's the concept of India," Mukherjee said at the 5th Shri Hari Shankar Singhania Memorial Oration on the theme 'Youth and Nation Building'. The former president said India can never be defined in a narrow sense as it's a great civilization that "embraces all kinds of races and humanity". This year, JK Lakshmipat University (JKLU) conferred the JKLU Laureate Award on Mukherjee. The JK Lakshmipat University has honoured distinguished luminaries for their contributions to the nation and society since 2014. "India has developed from these concepts" which accepted everything, absorbed all and did not reject anything, he noted. He said the fundamental truth of the progress of human civilisation has never been decided by the conquerers but by personalities like Jesus Christ and Gautam Buddha. "... Courses of contemporary history will never be decided by the brown shirts of Hitler, or the black shirts of (Benito) Mussolini but by a person who has no shirt, Mahatma Gandhi," he added. Stressing the need to tap the young population of India, Mukherjee said the entire political system has to take the responsibility, "otherwise the demographic dividend will be lost and it will become demographic disaster. As unemployed youth is always the source of explosion". On the occasion, JKLU chancellor Bharat Hari Singhania said, "Youth in India are contributing to Indian economy significantly by adopting innovations and choosing entrepreneurship as their career." JKLU, established in 2011 in Jaipur, is a philanthropic initiative of J K Organisation that includes JK Tyre, JK Lakshmi Cement, JK Paper and JK Fenner. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Exporters' body FIEO Wednesday said the growth of country's exports is likely to slow in the coming months owing to various domestic and global factors. Indian exports have always been influenced by the growth in global trade and therefore, the subdued global trade forecast of 3.9 per cent in 2018 and 3.7 per cent in 2019 will have adverse bearing on exports, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) President Ganesh Kumar Gupta said. "While exports have done well in the first five months of the current fiscal, they are likely to face greater challenges in months to come," he said. The export growth for September to November has to be watched carefully as exports in these months clocked over 25 per cent growth in 2017 and thus would have the disadvantage of high base effect, Gupta said in a statement. He also said that the sanctions on Iran, payment problems in Venezuela, huge depreciation of currencies of Argentina, Turkey, South Africa, Russia, Brazil and banking restrictions on large number of countries like Syria, Sudan, Libya, and Iraq are affecting exports. On domestic front, he said flow of credit to the export sector is a huge issue as export credit declined by over 41 per cent in April-June. "Such mismatch does not augur well for exports and thus needs to be addressed immediately and effectively," he said adding the GST refund pendency should be resolved immediately. However, he expressed hope that the country's exports would touch USD 350 billion exports in 2018-19. Last time in March, exports entered negative zone. It dipped by 0.66 per cent in that month. Exports were up by 16.13 per cent to USD 136.10 billion in April-August 2018-19. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Seven Rohingya immigrants, who have been staying in Assam illegally, will be deported to their home country Myanmar Thursday, officials said in New Delhi. This is for the first time Rohingya immigrants would be sent back to Myanmar from India. Seven Rohingya immigrants will be handed over to Myanmar authorities at Moreh border post in Manipur Thursday, a home ministry official said. The illegal immigrants have been staying at a detention centre in Silchar, Assam, since 2012, when they were detained by police. Consular access had been given to Myanmar diplomats, who confirmed the identity of the immigrants, the official said. Another official said the confirmation of the Myanmarese citizenship of the illegal immigrants came after the government of the neighbouring country verified their addresses in Rakhine State. The Indian government told Parliament last year that more than 14,000 Rohingya people, registered with the UN refugee agency UNHCR, stay in India. However, aid agencies estimate there are about 40,000 Rohingya people in the country. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims, described by the UN as the most persecuted minority in the world, fled their homes last year to escape an alleged crackdown by the Myanmarese military. Human rights group Amnesty International has blamed Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and the country's government for "burying their heads in the sand over the horrors unfolding in Rakhine State". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Army personnel of India and the United States gained from each other's experience in various fields of operation during a fortnight-long joint military exercise in Uttarakhand, a senior US Army official has said. The annual exercise named - Yudh Abhyas - was held from September 16-29 in Chaubatia in Almora district. The exercise witnessed participation of an infantry battalion of the Indian Army and the 1st Battalion 23 Infantry Regiment of the US Army. "We had a series of objectives for this exercise. We split it in two portions: A field training exercise from soldier up to battalion-brigade level. "The second part of the exercise that ran concurrently was a simulation driven command post exercise. That was at my level and the brigade level," said Maj. Gen. William H Graham, Deputy Commanding General I Corps and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, in an interaction with PTI. The scenario that drove the command post exercise was a UN-based humanitarian peacekeeping scenario set in a fictional country, he said. Describing the scenario as "quite complex", he said it tested the ability of the soldiers from both the countries to plan, organise and execute that complex operation. Narrating the experience, he said, "My staff was half American and half Indian. We mixed the soldiers together in field training as well into combined companies and they did a series of training exercise and demonstrations and the soldiers learnt from each other how to do their war-fighting tasks." The exercise was the 14th in the Yudh Abhyas series, which started in 2004 under US Army Pacific Partnership Programme. Exercise Yudh Abhyas helped strengthen and broaden the inter-operability and cooperation between the two armies, the Indian Army said in a statement last week. "India has a wealth of experience in peacekeeping operations in the northeast and northwest as well as extensive in Africa, particularly in Congo. The United States has extensive experience in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. "It was tremendous to be able to draw at the solider level...different tactics, different techniques, different procedures and how to accomplish the same tasks when they do in a slightly different ways. We learnt a tremendous amount from Indian soldiers and I believe they learnt similar amount from us," it said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Indian businesses in South Africa have cautiously welcomed the new visa regime change for India and China that South African authorities plan to implement by the end of this month. Minister of Home Affairs Malusi Gigaba recently announced measures to make it easier for tourists, business people and academia to come to South Africa, including a visa on arrival process for business travellers from India and China. Business travellers from BRICS partners India and China will now be issued a 10-year multiple entry visa, within five days of application. "This is a very positive step in the right direction, but we will have to study the requirements in detail first," said the chairman of the India-South Africa Business Forum, Jitin Bhatia. "We have been asking for a relaxed visa regime for Indian business travellers for a long time and this is a very welcome move which our members are very excited about. But there are also other visa issues which need some attention to support our view that the current trade and investment of USD 5 billion can be boosted to triple that within the next three to four years if some other steps are implemented," he said. Bhatia said these included easing current visa requirements for Indian companies who want to bring top executives to South Africa to spend more time here. "Currently only inter-company transfers with the proviso of transferring skills are allowed, with a maximum stay of four years per visa. But we need to have a visa regime where executives such as CEOs and CFOs are allowed to stay longer to build up the companies, and also recognition that such skills cannot easily be transferred," Bhatia said. High Commissioner for India Ruchira Kamboj also welcomed the new South African visa requirements. "We will be meeting with the Ministry of Home Affairs and hope to soon sign a bilateral agreement with South Africa on the visa arrangements," Kamboj said. "We are also in negotiations to start the next step in boosting business between the two countries, which is the reintroduction of direct flights between India and South Africa," she added. Business travellers in both countries have long lamented the lengthy travel via other countries to reach South Africa as a barrier in trade and investment. "Over 100 Indian companies represented in South Africa currently employ about 18,000 South Africans and this can be upped as well with the steps to ease movement between our two countries, in line with the objectives being shared globally currently by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa," Kamboj said. The diplomat said she had also met Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom last week to discuss boosting tourism between their nations. Hanekom has been at the forefront of calling for stringent travel requirements for children to be eased, which has now also been announced by Gigaba. Local travel agents specialising in tourism from India earlier said that numbers had fallen due to these requirements and expressed hope that Indians would now come to South Africa in greater numbers. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Indrani Mukerjea, prime accused in the Sheena Bora murder case, filed yet another bail application in a court here Wednesday on health grounds. She told special CBI judge J C Jagdale that she wanted to argue her bail plea in person. "I am filing the bail application on medical grounds due to recent change in the circumstances of my health condition," she said. Last month the court had rejected her bail application, filed on medical grounds. The court had said that her claims of ill-health were exaggerated. In the fresh plea, Indrani said her health has further deteriorated and she has been diagnosed with a "new neurological complication in the brain". She was experiencing severe headaches and frequent black-outs, she claimed. Indrani, who is lodged in Byculla Jail here, had been rushed to the hospital twice last week after she complained of headache and double vision. Meanwhile, Shubhodoy Mukherjee, senior vice-president of Mumbai Metro One, where the victim Sheena Bora was working, deposed before the CBI court during the trial Wednesday. Sheena, who worked under him as an assistant human resource manager, was "very hard-working" and "sincere", he said. "She had come to work on that day (April 24, 2012, the day she was allegedly killed). She asked me for a half-day leave for personal work and left office about 3.30 PM," he said. "Thereafter, I received a message from her asking for two days' leave, to which I replied OK. But she never reported back to work," Mukherjee said. Sheena Bora (24) was allegedly killed on April 24, 2012 by her mother Indrani Mukerjea with the help of others. Indrani Mukerjea, her former husband Sanjeev Khanna and her former driver were arrested for the alleged killing in August 2015. Her current husband and media baron Peter Mukerjea was arrested for allegedly being part of the conspiracy. According to the CBI, financial dispute was one of the main reasons for the alleged murder. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) : Infosys Foundation Wednesday announced it has signed an MoU with the Criminal Investigation Department of Karnataka Police and Data Security Council of India to set up the Centre for CybercrimeInvestigation Training & Research (CCITR) in the city. Data Security Council of India (DSCI), an industrybody on data protection, has proposed to start the Centre in collaboration with the CID of Karnataka Police,the Foundation, thephilanthropic arm of IT major Infoys, said in a release. As part of the MoU, the Infosys Foundationwill support the establishment of the Centre that will housethe CCITR through a Public-Private-Partnership model, anchoredby the Karnataka Police Department. InfosysFoundation Chairperson Sudha Murty said CCITR is a project for the present andthe future, aiming to build state-of-the-art facilities totackle cyber and forensic crimes in Karnataka. "Once operational, it will be a proud milestone for CID and DSCI to curbmisuse and unethical use of technology to create distress and uneasiness for fellow beings,"she said. The CCITR aims to train police, prosecution, the judiciaryand other departments in handling technology investigations and create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in cybercrimeinvestigations. The center will also be used to perform research in digital forensics and cybercrime investigation that will improve the prosecution of cybercrime cases investigated by the Karnataka Police. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Iran is a "rogue regime" and has acted for decades as the central banker of international terrorism, the Trump administration alleged Wednesday. US National Security Advisor John Bolton's statement came in response to Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif recent remarks terming the US an "outlaw regime". "You know, Iran is a rogue regime," Bolton told reporters at a White House conference here. "It (Iran) has been a threat throughout the Middle East, not only for its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs, but it's acted for decades as the central banker of international terrorism. And its hostile and aggressive military behavior in the region today is a breach of international peace and security," Bolton alleged. "So I don't take what they say seriously at all," he said in response to a question. Bolton said America's dispute is with the ayatollahs who have taken Iran from a respected position in the international community to being a rogue state. "Our dispute has never been with the people of Iran. We only wish they had the ability to control their own government," he said. Bolton insisted that regime change was not a policy of the US. "Our policy is not regime change, but we do expect substantial change in their behaviour that's why the president has directed all of us in the government to come up with steps to reimpose the economic sanctions, and to do whatever else is necessary to ensure we bring maximum pressure on the regime to stop its malign behaviour across the board - not just in the nuclear field, but across the board," Bolton said. "We are going to apply the maximum amount of leverage we can. We're working with our European partners, with the British, the French, the Germans and others," he said. "They have chosen to remain in the Iran nuclear deal. But as I've said to them, it's like a book that was written several decades ago in this country. It was called something like 'The Six Stages of Grief'. You know, first you have denial, then you have anger. Eventually you get to acceptance. And I think that's the direction the Europeans are moving in," he added. European companies in droves are forswearing business opportunities in Iran because they don't want to be caught up in the pressure campaign that the US is applying, Bolton said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The requested page is currently unavailable on this server. Back to [RTHK News Homepage] The Punjab and Haryana High Court Wednesday granted interim bail to Naresh Kumar, the main accused in the lynching of 17-year-old Junaid Khan who was stabbed to death on a train near Ballabhgarh in June last year. Khan, who had boarded a Mathura-bound train from Delhi on June 22 last year, was allegedly stabbed to death when the train was nearing Ballabhgarh in Haryana. He and his brothers were returning to their homes in Khandawali village after shopping in Delhi for Eid. Khan's body was dumped near Asaoti village in Faridabad district. A single bench of Justice Daya Chaudhary granted interim bail to Kumar, who has been accused of killing Khan, his counsel said. "Naresh Kumar has been granted interim bail by the high court," his counsel Vishvajit Virk said. "The court granted interim bail to him in the wake of Supreme Court's stay order on the proceedings of the case before the trial court. It has been ordered that the petitioner will continue on interim bail till final decision of the special leave petition in the Supreme Court,"he said. Kumar had been injudicial custody since July 8, 2017. His lawyer had argued that he has remained in jail for more than one year and should be granted interim bail. Khan's father Jalaluddin had approached the Supreme Court with a special leave petition after the Punjab and Haryana High Court dismissed the petition filed by him seeking a CBI inquiry into lynching of his son. Kumar is facing several charges, including murder, uttering words with deliberate intent to hurt religious feelings of a person and wrongful restraint. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Justice Ranjan Gogoi was sworn in as the 46th chief justice of India on Wednesday after which he did some plain-speaking over urgent mentioning of cases in the Supreme Court for hearing, saying they will be disallowed till certain parameters are fixed unless someone is set to be "hanged or evicted". Gogoi, 63, becomes the first person from the Northeast to reach the top position of the judiciary and will have a tenure of a little over 13 months. He will retire on November 17, 2019. President Ram Nath Kovind administered the oath to Justice Gogoi at a brief ceremony in Rashtrapati Bhavan's historic Darbar Hall. Justice Gogoi took the oath in English in the name of god. He succeeds Justice Dipak Misra who retired Tuesday on attaining the age of 65 years. Several leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his predecessor Manmohan Singh and former premier H D Deve Gowda were present at the ceremony. "I congratulate Justice Ranjan Gogoi ji on taking oath as the Chief Justice of India. His experience, wisdom, insight and legal knowledge will benefit the country greatly. My best wishes for a fruitful tenure," Modi tweeted. Justice Misra had earlier this month recommended Justice Gogoi as his successor in accordance with the established practice of naming the senior-most judge after the CJI for the top post. Speculation over Justice Gogoi's appointment as the next CJI arose after the court's four most senior judges, including Justice Gogoi, called a press conference on January 11 and criticised Justice Misra on various issues, especially the manner of allocation of cases to certain benches. Justices J Chelameswar (since retired), Madan B Lokur and Kurian Joseph were the others who addressed the press conference, perhaps a first in the history of the Indian judiciary. After the swearing-in ceremony, Justice Gogoi came to the Supreme Court and presided over the bench along with Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph in Court number 1 which is the CJi's court. The new CJI began the day at the apex court by telling the lawyers that fresh parameters would be worked out for mentioning the matters for hearing those cases which required hearing on priority and urgent mentioning. Justice Gogoi said "no urgent mentioning of cases will be allowed" till certain parameters are fixed for it. "We will work out the parameters then we will see as to how mentioning will be done," he said. "If somebody is going to be hanged or evicted tomorrow, then we can understand (urgency)", the CJI added. Born on November 18, 1954, Justice Gogoi, who belongs to Dibrugarh in Assam, enrolled as an advocate in 1978. He practised in the Gauhati High Court on constitutional, taxation and company matters. He was appointed permanent judge of the Gauhati High Court on February 28, 2001. On September 9, 2010, he was transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The following year, on February 12, 2011, he was appointed chief justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court and then a judge of the Supreme Court on April 23, 2012. The Supreme Court website showed the roster of the work for fresh cases notified under the order of the CJI and with effect from October 3 till further orders. The CJI has decided to keep with himself the PIL and the petitions based on the letter. The bench headed by him will also deal with the matters relating to social justice, elections, company law, Monopoly and Restricted Trade Practices, Telephone Regulatory Authority of India, Security Exchange Board of India(SEBI), Insurance and Reserve Bank of India. Justice Gogoi has also kept with himself matters concerning arbitration, habeas corpus, criminal cases, contempt of court and ordinary civil matters. His bench will also deal with the issues relating to the appointment of Constitutional functionaries, statutory appointments and appointment of other law officers. Besides the matters pertaining to the judicial officers and Commissions of Enquiry, would also be allocated before the bench headed by the CJI. Justice Gogoi has also allocated the PIL and letter-based matters to the bench headed by Justice Lokur whose bench will also be seized with matters of land acquisition and requisition and service. Justice Lokur is the senior-most judge after the CJI. Justice Lokur's bench, which is already allocated social justice matters, will continue with it along with the matters relating to forest, environment, wild life and ecology. Personal law matters, religious charitable endowments and issues of mines, minerals and mining leases would be allocated to the bench headed by Justice Lokur which will also take up the matters of land laws and agriculture tenancies, consumer protection and issues relating to armed forces and paramilitary. Justice Kurian Joseph, who is third in seniority will have matters relating to labour, rent, service, family and criminal cases. The bench headed by Justice Joseph would also share with the bench of CJI the matters relating to contempt of court. The allocation of work for Justice Joseph also includes ordinary, civil, personal law along with religious and charitable endowments. His bench will also deal with simple money and mortgage matters. His bench has also been assigned matters of land laws, agriculture and tenancy and also pertaining to the Supreme Court, High Courts, other courts and the tribunals. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Justice Ranjan Gogoi, who on Wednesday sworn in as the 46th Chief Justice of India, is the first person from the Northeast to reach the top position of judiciary and will have a tenure of a little over 13 months before retiring on November 17, 2019. He succeeds Justice Dipak Misra who demitted office on October 2. had hit the headlines in January by holding a controversial press conference along with three other senior-most judges of the top court in which they virtually revolted against the then over certain contentious issues. He later remarked at a public function that "independent judges and noisy journalists are democracy's first line of defence". A "revolution, not reform" was needed to keep the institution of judiciary serviceable for the common man, had said at the same function. Last week, at another public function, he had mentioned about his priority as the to combat the backlog of cases. On Monday at the farewell function for Justice Misra, was said people are divided "more than ever" along the lines of caste, religion and ideology and what one should wear, eat or say are no longer insignificant questions about personal life. The judge was of the view that beliefs must be constantly evaluated on the touchstone of constitutional morality which must prevail when there arises any doubt or conflict and had said this is true patriotism to the Constitution. Justice Gogoi brushed aside the claims that the system had not fared well and said despite odds, a number of judges were committed to the cause. "System has done well. In spite of odds we have a lot of committed judges committed to the cause and they will continue to be committed regardless of the inadequacies in terms of remuneration, in spite of the possibilities of abuse of their names," Justice Gogoi had said, adding, "We don't have to be alarmed of that. It comes with the system". Justice Gogoi hails from Dibrugarh in Assam and was born on November 18, 1954. He did his schooling in Don Bosco School Dibrugarh before studying history in Delhi University's St Stephen's College. Son of former Assam chief minister Keshab Chandra Gogoi, he was enrolled as an advocate in 1978. He practised in the Gauhati High Court on constitutional, taxation and company matters. He was appointed as a permanent judge of the Gauhati High Court on February 28, 2001. On September 9, 2010, he was transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court. He was appointed the chief justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court on February 12, 2011 and then a judge of the on April 23, 2012. Justice Gogoi has delivered various significant judgements, including Assam's Register of Citizens (NRC), setting up of special courts to exclusively try MPs and MLAs, Rajiv Gandhi assassination case convicts for remission of their life sentences and appointment of anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal among others. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan Wednesday dismissed as 'baseless' allegations of corruption levelled by opposition UDF in the sanctioning of new breweries and distilleries in the state, accusing it of trying to create smoke screen over the issue. The government had only given in principle sanction to the three breweries and a distillery and the final licence would be granted after following necessary inspection by concerned departments, he told a press conference here. Referring to the claim of Leader of the Opposition in the assembly Ramesh Chennithala of Congress that the government did not invite tenders for new breweries, Vijayan said there was no such precedent and added that all decisions had been taken in a "transparent" manner by following guidelines. Excise Minister T P Ramakrishnan had last week maintained the same stand, dismissing the charges as baseless and saying the decisions were taken in a "transparent" manner by following necessary guidelines. Chennithala had claimed that the sanctions were given through the 'back door' without making any changes in the LDF's declared liquor policy. He had also alleged that crores of rupees were taken as bribe to accord sanction for the units and demanded a comprehensive probe besides an explanation from the Chief Minister. Rejecting the allegations, Vijayan said the government had nothing to hide and the decision was in accordance with the ruling LDF's policy which did not favour total prohibition but only abstinence from liquor. The move was to enhance the state's revenue and create more job openings, he said. Vijayan also said that at present 40 per cent of total beer requirement for the state and eight per cent of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) were being procured from neighbouring states. Indicating that the allegation was to help the liquor lobby of neighbouring states, he said the liquor units there would be hit if new units were opened in the state. The opposition was trying to create a "smoke-screen" by raising fabricated allegations against the government, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Khadi India's flagship store in central Delhi's Connaught Place has recorded sale of Rs 1.06 crore on Gandhi Jayanti this year, an increase of 51 per cent than the previous year, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) said Wednesday. The KVIC in an official release said the sale of Khadi products on Tuesday was the highest ever witnessed on Gandhi Jayanti. The sale saw an increase of around Rs 36 lakh as compared to the sale of Rs 70.01 lakh in 2017. KVIC Chairman Vinay Kumar Saxena said the record sale is the translation of how Prime Minister Narendra Modi has communicated his vision of economic transformation through Khadi "clearly, creatively, and continually". "The beginning of Khadi sale is extremely encouraging with a sweeter note of success this time and I hope that this year we will break our own record of highest sale in the days to come," he said. According to the statement, there was a customer influx of 13,657 and a total of 2,730 sales bills were issued at the Connaught Place store in a single day. Earlier this year, sales of Khadi, including solar and poly vastra, had grown to Rs 2,503 crore during the 2017-18 financial year as against Rs 2,007 crore in 2016-17. "Incredibly, the total average Khadi sale, which was Rs 914.07 crore between 2004 and 2014, jumped to Rs 1,828.3 crore in three years after that, i.e. between 2015 and 2018, with over 100 per cent increase," the KVIC said. Moreover, with the average Khadi sale of Rs 120.09 crore by departmental sales outlets (DSOs) in the 2015-18 period, a growth of 168.24 per cent has been recorded as compared to Rs 44.77 crore between 2004 and 2014. As many as 375 new Khadi institutions were established after 2015 in some two-odd years, whereas the number of new Khadi institutions established in 10 years between 2004 and 2014 was only 110, the KVIC said. The village industries products average sales by departmental sales outlets which were only Rs 13.67 crore during 2004-14, jumped to Rs 31.2 crore, with a significant growth of 128.24 per cent, the KVIC said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Orissa High Court Wednesday adjourned till October 10, the hearing of the writ petition pertaining to recent lawyers-police standoff, while the agitating lawyers of the city, who are on strike since August 29, decided to continue their stir till Wednesday next. "The General Body of the High Court Bar Association decided to continue the strike till October 10 and further course of action will be decided on that day," said the Association secretary Satyabrata Mohanty. The high court will remain closed for the 'puja' vacation from October 13 to 24. Meanwhile, pursuant to an order passed by the Supreme Court on September 27, Inspector General Of Police Arun Kumar Bothra of the State crime branch police has been entrusted to investigate into all the four cases, those were registered by the city police following the lawyer-police spat here on August 28. The cases, including three against a lawyer, were first handled by an inspector of the city police. Following high court orders, the cases were first handed over to a deputy superintendents of police of the crime branch and subsequently to a DIG. After the SC order, now the cases will be investigated by IGP Bothra. Ordering the cases to be investigated by an IGP, the Supreme Court Bench headed by then CJI Dipak Misra, had also directed the protesting lawyers to call off their strike and join their court works. But the lawyers defied the SC orders and even burnt the effigy of the CJI. Notwithstanding the defiance of the apex court orders by protesting lawyers, Orissa High Court bench of Chief Justice K S Jhaveri and Justice K R Mohapatra on the day while adjourning the writ petition to be heard again next week, hoped that the IGP, who is carrying out investigation, will examine the matter without fear and favor. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) CPI(M) state secretary Surya Kanta Mishra on Wednesday said the Left Front will resist any attempt to disrupt communal harmony in West Bengal during BJP's three 'rath yatras' in the state in December. The BJP has plans to organise three rath yartas in the state in the last month of this year. "If there is any attempt to instigate people, if there is an attempt to engineer riots during the 'rath yatras' organised by the BJP, the Left parties will not sit idle. "There will be fierce resistance from the secular and democratic people of the country. We have not forgotten the memory of the BJP Rath Yatra in 1990, led by the then BJP president L K Advani," Mishra said at a rally organised by the BPMO (Bengal Platform of Mass Organisation) floated by various Left organisations. Describing the BJP and the Trinamool Congress as the two sides of the same coin, he called upon all "democratic forces to fight the fascist TMC in West Bengal and the fascist BJP at the Centre". Mishra said the ruling dispensations at the state and the Centre were "taking away the rights of common people and have imposed undeclared emergency". He described "Narendra Modi as the head and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as the tail of the same coin at Centre and vice-versa in the state". Referring to the clash in Islampur where two youths died over appointment of Urdu and Sanskrit teachers in a high school, the CPI(M) leader said the students of the school were greeted with bullets. "The chief minister who was away in Milan (Italy) had issued a statement saying that the firing was carried out by outsiders," Mishra said. "We are not against recruiting Urdu and Sanskrit teachers. But if the students ask for Bengali teachers should that not be paid heed to? And if outsiders had indeed opened fire, why could not the police arrest any one till date. "This shows the CM can only try to divert attention from a raging issue and suppress facts," he said. Mishra questioned the violence over formation of boards in panchayats and asked why the TMC was yet to decide the name of the 'sabhadipatis'. Coming down heavily on Banerjee, the CPI(M) leader said after coming to power, she had said 10,000 madrasas will get approval. "But The number of government approved madrasas remain 235, all of which had been approved during the Left Front regime," he said, adding that this shows Banerjee's "overtures to minorities were hollow". About the condition of farmers, Mishra said while the TMC government claimed their incomes have increased three-fold, it cannot cite one example in this regard. On the blast at Nagerbazar in the city, Mishra told reporters that the CPI(M) wanted an impartial probe under court supervision. "We do not believe in the CID or SIT formed by the state government, neither do we believe in CBI as it is under the Centre. The Nagerbazar probe should be conducted under court supervision," he said. "How could so many explosives be stockpiled at a place?...The state government seems to be least bothered despite so many tragedies taking place in the state," he said. Referring to the incident of Majerhat bridge collapse last month, he asked, "If the CM blames the PWD department, how come she absolves the PWD minister of the responsibilities? Why doesn't she fire the (PWD) minister?" Left Front Chairman Biman Bose told reporters the forensic evidence at the blast site was cleaned shortly after the blast. "Has it been done to suppress something?" he asked. Speaking on the Medical College fire, Bose said, "While fires may break out anywhere in the world, the successive fire incidents in our city have thrown up certain facts of mismanagement and failure." Speaking about the closure of the CPI(M) mouthpiece 'Daily Desher Katha' in Tripura, Bose said, "It shows the fascist nature of the regime in Tripura and the Centre. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The candidate selected by Britain's ruling Conservative Party to contest against London Mayor Sadiq Khan in the 2020 mayoral elections on Wednesday came under fire for the views he expressed 13 years ago about Hindus and Muslims. Shaun Bailey had written a pamphlet for the Centre for Policy Studies back in 2005 in which he lamented Hindu and Muslim influences on the cultural landscape of Britain. "You bring your children to school and they learn far more about Diwali than Christmas," he wrote in the pamphlet titled 'No Man's Land'. Bailey, a member of the London Assembly, also seemed to be confused about the difference between Hindu with Hindi in the controversial document he had put together as a researcher with the London-based think tank. "I speak to the people who are from Brent [north-west London] and they've been having Muslim and Hindi days off. What it does is rob Britain of its community. Without our community we slip into a crime-riddled cesspool," he wrote. The central theme of the pamphlet seemed to reflect his views that Christianity was being sidelined in the UK as a result of multiculturalism. "There are a lot of really good things about Britain as a place and British people as a body. But by removing the religion that British people generally take to, by removing the ethics that generally go with it, we've allowed people to come to Britain and bring their culture, their country and any problems they might have, with them," he wrote. The MP, who is black, added: "Within the black community it is not such a bad thing because we've shared a religion and in many cases a language. "It's far easier for black people to integrate. How we arrived here is different. If you talk to old black people, they will say they have been invited here by the Queen. They absolutely do not consider themselves refugees or immigrants." The pamphlet has caused outrage among the Labour Party colleagues of Sadiq Khan, the first Asian of Pakistani-origin, with veteran Indian-origin MP Virendra Sharma calling on the Conservatives to withdraw Bailey's candidature for the 2020 local elections. "It is appalling that in this day and age even the Tories can select a candidate for Mayor of London with views this outdated and objectionable. I don't see how Shaun Bailey can continue as candidate having written off the multiculturalism that makes London great," said Sharma, who is also co-chair of the Indo-British All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG). The senior politician questioned Baliey's ability to be an ambassador for a diverse city like London and travel to countries like India, Pakistan or Indonesia to boost business for the British capital. "Bailey seems to believe that celebrating Hindu and Muslim culture will 'rob Britain of its community' and we will 'slip into a crime riddled cess pool'. The messages of my faith Hinduism are of tolerance, compassion, honesty and self-restraint, lessons that Mr Bailey would do well to learn," he said. The Tell MAMA [Measuring Anti-Muslim Attacks] organisation, which records Islamophobic hate incidents in the UK, also attacked the mayoral hopeful. "We do not tolerate such views about Muslim and Hindu communities. Nor do we tolerate any hatred or racism directed towards any other community. We will raise this further," Tell MAMA said in a statement. A spokesperson for Bailey dismissed the attacks, saying the politician had worked with diverse communities for over 20 years and was in tune with the challenges faced by black and minority ethnic (BAME) communities in the UK. "Whether it is working with one of London's biggest Muslim communities in North Kensington or helping young people from all communities to fulfil their potential, Shaun has always championed diverse communities. "Shaun has made it his life's work to help those from migrant and disadvantaged communities, and to suggest otherwise is ludicrous," the spokesperson said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A day after he met Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Wardha, BJP MLA Ashish Deshmukh Wednesday resigned from the Maharashtra Assembly, citing alleged corruption in the Rafale deal as the reason. Deshmukh had Tuesday announced his decision to quit as MLA and submitted his resignation to the Assembly Speaker Wednesday. Deshmukh, who represented the Katol constituency in the Vidrabha region, is likely to join the Congress which he had quit before the assembly polls four years ago, sources close to him said. In a statement issued Wednesday evening, Deshmukh said schemes such as Make in India, Magnetic Maharashtra (the BJP-led state government's investment summit) and Skill India "showed no results on the ground". "Also, there is mega corruption in the Rafale deal," he alleged. On his meeting with Rahul Gandhi Tuesday, Deshmukh said, "Youths have a lot of expectations from him." Deshmukh said BJP leaders had reneged on the promise of creating a separate state of Vidarbha. "When I launched a hunger strike for creation of Vidarbha in 2013, BJP leaders Nitin Gadkari, Devendra Fadnavis and Vinod Tawde assured me of carving out a separate state once the BJP came to power. They did not keep the promise and did nothing for betterment of Vidarbha," he said. Meanwhile, a BJP leader said Deshmukh's resignation may not be accepted immediately as the party wants to avoid a by-poll to the seat ahead of the Winter Session of the state legislature starting next month. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Maharashtra government Wednesday moved the Supreme Court against the Delhi High Court order allowing Gautam Navlakha, one of the five activists arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima case, to be freed from house arrest. The Delhi High Court freed Navlakha from house arrest on Monday, five weeks after he and four other rights activists were arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima violence in Maharashtra. The plea challenging the order was filed in the apex court registry Wednesday morning, Nishant Katneshwar, counsel for the Maharashtra government, told PTI. Granting relief to Navlakha, 65, the high court also quashed the trial court's transit remand order which he had challenged before the matter was taken to the Supreme Court. The high court said Navlakha's detention had exceeded 24 hours which was "untenable". The bench of Justices S Muralidhar and Vinod Goel, while setting aside the August 28 order of the chief metropolitan magistrate granting Navlakha transit remand, had said there was non-compliance of basic provisions of the Constitution and the CrPC which were mandatory in nature. The bench also said the trial court order was unsustainable in law. However, the high court had made it clear that the order will not preclude the state of Maharashtra from proceeding further. Navlakha was arrested from the national capital by the Maharashtra police on August 28. The other four activists were arrested from different parts of the country. They were arrested in connection with an FIR lodged following a conclave -- Elgaar Parishad -- held on December 31 last year that had allegedly triggered violence later at Koregaon-Bhima village in the state. The five activists -- Varavara Rao, Arun Ferreira, Vernon Gonsalves, Sudha Bharadwaj and Gautam Navlakha -- were put under house arrest on August 29 following an apex court order on the plea by historian Romila Thapar, economists Prabhat Patnaik and Devaki Jain, sociology professor Satish Deshpande and human rights lawyer Maja Daruwala against the police action. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Your family might be making your blood boil Popular wisdom says that strong family relationships provide refuge, comfort, and security. Family protects us, soothes our ills, and calms our fears. Epidemiological studies have drawn a positive correlation between strong family support and physical and mental well-being. Now, a team of researchers at the University of Florida has turned that popular wisdom on its head, at least in their study of a population of African American families living in Tallahassee. The study led by UF doctoral student Kia Fuller revealed a surprising result: African Americans who have a large family network also have high blood pressure. A lot of studies show that family support generally improves physical and mental health, said Fuller. Our results show that it is more complicated than that. Specifically, if you are called upon to give a lot of family support, it can take a toll on your health. UF anthropology professors Connie Mulligan, Lance Gravlee, and Chris McCarty have been studying genetic and sociocultural risk factors for hypertension and related racial disparities in African Americans. High blood pressure presents more often in African Americans than their European American counterparts. Even so, this condition is not well understood. Mulligan, corresponding author of the study said, Hypertension shows racial disparities, with higher prevalence in African Americans, as do related cardiovascular diseases. In addition to a better understanding of hypertension and blood pressure variation, we are also interested in the genetic and sociocultural factors that underlie racial disparities in health, and we use hypertension as a model to study racial disparities. The researchers conducted extensive interviews with 138 African Americans in Tallahassee, Fla., who were asked to name 30 people with whom they were in regular contact. Individuals with higher blood pressure had more family members in their social network. The team also looked at genetic variations at the ACE gene, which stands for angiotensin I converting enzyme gene. Changes in the ACE gene are a powerful predictor of high blood pressure. Previous studies of the ACE gene that the team conducted showed that a novel measure of vicarious racial discrimination is associated with high blood pressure. This new study recently published in PLOS One continues the work of examining the effects racial disparity have on the health of African Americans, specifically hypertension. Mulligan noted the significance of family networks that contain many family members. Phrased another way, lack of diversity of relationships in your network is associated with higher blood pressure, Mulligan said. Since African Americans are known to have more family members in their networks than European Americans, this result might help explain some of the racial disparities we see with hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases. If you ever feel that your family is making your blood boil, it just might be true. The Maharshtra government moved the Supreme Court Wednesday challenging the Delhi High Court order allowing Gautam Navlakha, one of the five rights activists arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima case, to be freed from house arrest. The plea was filed in the apex court registry challenging the Delhi High Court order, Nishant Katneshwar, counsel for the Maharashtra government told PTI. The high court had on Monday freed Navlakha from house arrest, five weeks after he and four other rights activists were arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima violence in Maharashtra. The Maharashtra government said in the petition that the high court had misread the CrPC while allowing Navlakha to be freed from house arrest. Granting relief to the 65-year-old activist, the high court had also quashed the trial court's transit remand order which he had challenged before the matter was taken to the Supreme Court. "The case in hand depicts misreading of section 167 (1) and (2) of Code of Criminal Procedure by the High Court while passing the impugned order," said the petition filed by Shivaji Panditrao Pawar, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Pune. Section 167 (1) states that in case an accused is to be produced before the jurisdictional magistrate, then it is incumbent upon the police to produce the case diary. The plea said that in case the police applies for transit remand before a Magistrate having no jurisdiction, then it is not necessary for the police to produce the case diary. "In the case in hand, the police arrested five persons from different places in the country. It was, therefore, not expected and not possible to produce the case diary before the concerned Courts," the plea said. The plea said that the high court has "erred" in stating that there was non-application of mind by the chief metropolitan magistrate in passing the order of transit remand, it said. "It needs to be seen that, while passing the order of transit remand the magistrate had gone through the application filed by the police and he had heard the concerned police officer. It is not possible/pragmatic to mention minute details while passing the order of remand," it said. The plea also said that when the Supreme Court had extended the period of house arrest by four weeks it was not necessary to observe about end of house arrest. It also claimed that the high court has erred in allowing the petition of Navlakha by setting aside the order of remand. "It is pertinent to note that, neither was there a prayer to set aside the order of remand nor was there any amendment to that effect. The writ petition was filed seeking a writ of habeas corpus only," it said. It further said that the high court has erred in entertaining the plea and it was clearly against the law. The plea also claimed that the high court has erred in doubting the procedure of arrest and the police had followed the procedure while arresting as well as while seeking transit remand. The high court had said that Navlakha's detention had exceeded 24 hours which was "untenable". The bench of Justices S Muralidhar and Vinod Goel, while setting aside the August 28 order of the chief metropolitan magistrate granting Navlakha transit remand, had said there was non-compliance of basic provisions of the Constitution and the CrPC which were mandatory in nature. The bench also said the trial court order was unsustainable in law. However, the high court had made it clear that the order will not preclude the state of Maharashtra from proceeding further. Navlakha was arrested from the national capital by the Maharashtra police on August 28. The other four activists were arrested from different parts of the country. They were arrested in connection with an FIR lodged following a conclave -- Elgaar Parishad -- held on December 31 last year that had allegedly triggered violence later at Koregaon-Bhima village in the state. The five activists -- Varavara Rao, Arun Ferreira, Vernon Gonsalves, Sudha Bharadwaj and Gautam Navlakha -- were put under house arrest on August 29 following an apex court order on the plea by historian Romila Thapar, economists Prabhat Patnaik and Devaki Jain, sociology professor Satish Deshpande and human rights lawyer Maja Daruwala against the police action. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A man was arrested by customs officials for allegedly trying to smuggle out foreign currencies worth Rs 24 lakh at Delhi airport, according to an official statement issued Wednesday. The accused was intercepted when he was about to travel to Dubai Monday. A detailed personal and baggage search resulted in recovery of foreign currencies, including US Dollars and Riyals, equivalent to Rs 24.17 lakh, the statement issued by the customs said. The passenger was arrested and the foreign currencies were seized. During enquiry, the passenger also admitted to have smuggled foreign currencies worth Rs 63 lakh previously on four occasions, it said. He was also booked by Mumbai customs earlier this year for allegedly trying to smuggle out foreign currency equivalent to Rs 18.05 lakh, the statement said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 32-year-old man was killed while another person injured Wednesday when "some chemical" fell on them while they were riding a motorcycle near east Delhi's Johri Enclave Metro station, officials said. The Delhi Metro authorities said the incident occurred at around 6 pm near the yet-to-be-opened station on its Pink Line following which some of its workers helped them rush to the hospital. The deceased was identified as Amit Chauhan while the injured, Rahul (17), who was riding pillion, has been hospitalised, Ghaziabad Senior Superintendent of Police Vaibhav Krishna said. According to Rahul's statement, they were passing by the Johri Enclave Metro station when suddenly some chemical fell on them due to which they sustained burn injuries. They were immediately rushed to GTB Hospital in east Delhi, where Amit succumbed to injuries and Rahul was undergoing treatment, the police said. The DMRC in statement released late Wednesday night clarified that "nothing fell from the premises of the metro station". "Outside the Johri Enclave Metro station, some chemical fell from a vehicle on the motorcycle, injuring the people riding the motorcycle. "The incident had nothing to do with the Delhi Metro at all. No work which requires the use of such chemical is in progress there. The construction work in this area has already been completed and trial runs are in progress," the DMRC said. The senior superintendent of police said the possibility of someone pouring chemical on them cannot be ruled out. The police is probing the case on some other angles also, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 32-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly robbing Rs 4.5 crore on a highway in Haryana, police said Wednesday. The accused has been identified as Salman,resident of Wazirabad. A sophisticated 7.65 mm pistol with four live rounds and Rs 1.3 crore was also recovered from his possession Tuesday, they said. Salman is the nephew of the deceased gangster Khalil Ahmed, an aide of Dawood Ibrahim, police said. The robbery took place on last Sunday at around 8:30 pm in Dharuhera, Haryana. Karan Patel, resident of Gujarat, along with Gajendra Rathore (cashier) taken Rs 4.5 crore from Chandni Chowk and were on their way to Ahmedabad in their car. At around 8:30 pm, their car was intercepted by three other cars. According to them, a dozen assailants came out of cars and threatened them with a rifle and bundled them up in one of their cars. Thereafter, Karan and Gajendra were dumped near Rajasthan border. The police identified the main suspect as Salman of Wazirabad. During interrogation, Salman disclosed that he got the information of a party from Gujarat who would be carrying a huge amount of cash from Chandni Chowk. The gang followed the victims. They intercepted their car in Dharuhera area at around 8.30 pm. They dumped the victims near Rajasthan border and abandoned their car in Rewari, Haryana, said Ajit Singla, Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime). They distributed the money and Salman got the major part of Rs 2.5 crore as he was the leader of the gang and had provided the information about the cash. The rest of the cash was distributed among the remaining accused persons, police said. Salman revealed that his uncle Khalil Ahmed was a notorious criminal of Jama Masjid area, said the officer. Khalil had more than 50 criminal cases registered against him in various Police Stations of Delhi. On May 29,2013, Khalil Ahmed was shot dead outside his office in the area of Lahori Gatehi. Salman is educated and completed his MA (Urdu) from Delhi University. In order to earn quick money after the murder of his uncle in 2013, he formed a gang to loot cash vans carrying cash of businessmen from Delhi to other states, the officer added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A man was arrested from a hotel in North Tripura district after three pistols and 25 live cartridges were seized from his possession, police said on Wednesday. He was arrested from the hotel in Dharmanagar, about 175 km from here, the police said. Acting on a tip-off, the police carried out a raid at the hotel on late Tuesday night and arrested one Pranjit Das, a criminal and recovered the arms and live cartridges from his possession, the Superintendent of Police (SP) of North Tripura district, Bhanupada Chakraborty, told PTI. Silencers were attached to the pistols, Chakraborty said, adding, Das came from Silchar in Assam by train and was staying in the hotel in Dharmanagar. On September 24, three youths were arrested with two country-made pistols and live ammunition from Sabroom in Tripura South district, a police officer said. They were remanded to five days police custody after they were produced before a court, he said. Those pistols and cartridges came from Munger in Bihar, the officer added. "The kingpin of the Sabroom incident was Dipankar Sen, also a criminal, who is the brother-in-law of Pranjit Das and both of them are from Kamala Sagar area in West Tripura district," the SP said. He also said that it is believed that an arms-smuggling racket is active in Tripura. "We have also started an investigation to find out if an arms-smuggling racket is active," Chakraborty said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) After ending the farmers' march to Delhi on Wednesday, Bharatiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Tikait said his organisation will continue to agitate till all their demands are met. If this does not happen, the farmers will teach a lesson to the central government in the 2019 parliamentary elections, he told PTI. Thousands of farmers reached Kisan Ghat, the memorial to farm leader and former prime minister Charan Singh, after police allowed them to enter the national capital past midnight. Their demands include unconditional loan waiver, clearing of dues by sugar mills, higher prices for crops, free electricity for farms and a cut in diesel prices. Our objective was to draw attention of the government towards the problems the farmers face and we achieved our goal, Tikait said. He said people welcomed the Kisan Kranti Yatra, which began from Haridwar on September 23, at 10 halts on the way. But Delhi Police barricaded the city's border and stopped the peaceful protest march, he said. He accused the police of "brutality" against farmers at the Delhi-Ghaziabad border, referring to a clash between them and some protesters after they were stopped Tuesday from entering the city. Innocent farmers sustained injuries in the brutal lathi-charge by Delhi Police, he said, adding that the day happened to be Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary. He said Union Minister of State for Agriculture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat shared the stage with farm leaders and assured that their seven demands will be fulfilled. Janata Dal (United) general secretary KC Tyagi criticised Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for not holding a dialogue with the protesting farmers while they were on their way to Delhi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Apparently stunned by Mayawati's announcement Wednesday that her party won't forge any alliance with it in the Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan assembly polls, the Congress hoped that the BSP chief reposing her faith in Rahul and Sonia Gandhi will provide it a window of opportunity and "creases will be ironed out" with harmony. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the party's goal of defeating the BJP is clear and if any party walks along with it in achieving it is welcome, otherwise there can be a "healthy contest" in this fight against the BJP and there is nothing wrong in it as happened in the past. "Mayawati has expressed her sentiments and we respect that. She has reposed full faith in Rahul ji and Sonia ji and we respect that too. If there is harmony among Sonia Gandhi, who is our guide, and Rahul Gandhi, who is our leader, and Mayawati ji, then no fourth person can create a rift among them. "If there are any creases left, they will be ironed out mutually among them with harmony," he told reporters. Surjewala also said that once the leaders have amicable, respectable, fruitful relationship with each other, "all other creases can be ironed out". Earlier, Mayawati announced that her party will contest assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh either on its own or in alliance with regional parties but not with the Congress. "I don't think so alliances are discussed or announced in press conferences. I think her statement says a lot and that is what you should think," Surjewala said. To a question on whether the Congress still has hope left in an alliance with the BSP, he said the BSP leader has expressed mutual respect and confidence towards the Congress president as also Sonia Gandhi. "I think that is the most important rather than reading multiple meanings in the statement of Mayawati ji," he said. On the charges levelled by Mayawati against certain Congress leaders, he said decisions on alliances and discussions on them between parties are not talked about in press conferences. Surjewala said, "Be it with one party or another, be it in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan or Telangana, the state units and leadership will decide with whom they wish to ally or not to strengthen the opposition and they will deliberate with the alliances committee set up for the purpose." The state units will discuss with the alliance committee and then take a decision, on whether an alliance is to be forged to defeat the BJP in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh and with TRS in Telangana, he said. Alliances will depend on state to state and the Congress will align with such parties that can strengthen the ideology and in the interest of the state's development, he said, adding that wherever it is felt that there is no scope for alliance and where the thoughts do not merge, "there will be a healthy contest there in this fight against the BJP. There is nothing wrong in this, as this has happened in the past too." "The Congress's goal is one, other parties may have many goals, but the Congress goal in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan is to free the people of the states from the tyranny of BJP rule and convert the destruction caused by BJP governments there into the stream of development. "In this yajna, those who will support the Congress will move together with us and they are welcome according to the political situation. Those who are unable to walk along are free to choose their own path. But, that does not mean, the Congress's pledge and fight against the BJP and in removing it has weakened. It can be a thought of a particular person, but not us," Surjewala said. He said the party does not agree with any criticism of its leaders by such a person. "Sometimes, some statements are given by leaders in an emotional flow, but the target of the eye is not lost," he said. Mayawati has accused the Congress of trying to "finish" the BSP, saying the grand old party is more interested in ending destroying her party than dislodging the BJP. "In Karnataka we tied up with regional party. In Chhattisgarh too, we did the same. Now we have decided to go alone in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. We may go with regional parties there but certainly not with the Congress," she read out a statement. Mayawati had earlier announced that the BSP will tie up with Ajit Jogi's party for the Chhattisgarh Assembly polls. After charges by Mayawati against him, Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said that he has been a bitter critic of Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, BJP and the RSS and he will follow Rahul Gandhi's directions. He said he has already made it clear that he respects Mayawati and has been in favour of Congress-BSP alliance from the very beginning and talks between the two parties have already been held but she has declared candidates for 22 seats. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India's first woman to scale Mount Everest and chief of Tata Steel Adventure Foundation (TASF) Bachendri Pal will lead a 40-member squad on a 1500-km, 27-day 'Mission Gange' rafting expedition along the river Ganga from October 5 to 30. The ambitious mission in partnership with National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) is aimed at creating awareness at grassroots level by cleaning the river and river fronts and educating people about waste management, clean and climate change. The team will start its expedition on October 5 from Haridwar traversing through Bijnor, Farukkhabad, Kanpur, Allahabad, Varanasi, Buxar and end with a drive in Patna. The expedition team will organise cleaning and awareness drives with the help of local communities, visit schools and other institutions to create awareness around waste management, climate change and Government of India's 'Mission Clean Ganga' (Namami Gange). NMCG will provide support for waste disposal, accommodation, volunteers, coordination with local authorities, NGOs and schools at various locations. "Our expedition is inspired by the Government of India's Namami Gange mission, which has been a very important step towards cleaning the Ganges that has been a life-supporting river for millions in our country," said Pal. "The aim of our expedition is to reach out to as many people as possible, heighten the awareness around keeping this great river clean and make a movement out of the Mission that had started four years ago," added the Padma Shri and Arjuna awardee. TSAF has brought together a diverse and industrious team of 40 individuals (20 women and 20 men) comprising eight mountaineers (Bachendri Pal, Premlata Agarwal, Hemant Gupta, R S Pal, Chetna Sahoo, Binita Soren, Poonam Rana, Swarnlata Dalai) who have summited Mt. Everest, 26 Tata Steel employees, 5 engineers from Indian Institute of Technology, one radio jockey and management graduates. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A suo motu case has been registered against unknown persons in connection with Tuesday's explosion in Nagerbazar area of the city that left a boy dead and nine others injured, an official said Wednesday. Samples have been collected from the spot and forensic tests are being conducted to ascertain what type of material was used in the blast in Nagerbazar. "We have started a suo motu case against unknown persons in this case. Strict action will be taken as per law against those found guilty," an officer of the Barrackpore Police Commissionerate told PTI. "CCTV footage from neighbouring shops as well as those from the traffic police are being checked. Locals of the neighbourhood have also been asked to come over for a round of questioning for our probe," the police official said. Inputs from locals could be vital and help in identifying those behind the blast, the police officer said. Asked if the explosion could have been a fallout of internal squabbles in the ruling Trinamool Congress, as has been alleged by the BJP, the police officer said it is difficult to infer such things at this stage since no arrests have been made in the case so far. "We have not been able to identify anybody responsible for this mishap. And it is very difficult to say whether he belongs to any particular political outfit or not. Our investigation is at a very early stage and nothing conclusive can be drawn now," the officer said. Police have described Tuesday's blast as a low-intensity one that occurred outside a fruit shop on the ground floor of a building which houses the office of South Dum Dum Municipality chairman and Trinamool Congress leader Panchu Roy. The ruling party has held the BJP responsible for the blast and alleged that it was targeted at Roy. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Maharashtra minister Deepak Kesarkar Wednesday came out in support of Nana Patekar, accused by fellow actor Tanushree Dutta of harassing her on the sets of a film in 2008, saying he is an "illustrious personality" who has done tremendous work for the state. He also questioned the veracity of Dutta's claims and asked why was an FIR not registered all these years. The Shiv Sena member said Patekar is known as a social worker, adding that unless there is a complaint, one can't accuse a person of his (Patekar's) stature. "He is not just an actor. He is also a social activist who has done tremendous work for the state. You just cannot level allegations against anybody," he said. Patekar is an "illustrious personality" who has done tremendous work for Maharashtra, the minister of state for home told PTI. On Dutta's claims, he said, "This is not how the home department functions. Why was there no FIR registered in the last 10 years? What is the substantial evidence on which a complaint can be registered a decade after the incident took place?" In a recent TV interview, Dutta had claimed that Patekar misbehaved with her on the sets of "Horn Ok Pleasss" 10 years ago. She also alleged that Patekar had the tacit support of the film's makers. Many Bollywood stars including Farhan Akhtar, Priyanka Chopra, Twinkle Khanna, Swara Bhasker, Anurag Kashyap, Richa Chadha, Parineeti Chopra and Hansal Mehta have come out in support of Dutta. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Jammu and Kashmir BJP unit Wednesday accused the National Conference of instigating locals in the Valley against Kashmiri pandit migrants for their participation in local bodies polls. "Today, when some of them have gone to Kashmir to exercise their right in elections or contest polls, the NC is instigating locals that they are coming here to rule them. It is a lie being spread by the NC," state BJP spokesperson Brig Anil Gupta told reporters here. He alleged that the NC, which is the oldest political party in the state, has always been averse to the presence of Kashmiri pandits in the Valley. "Their behaviour towards the minority KPs is same as it was 25 to 30 years ago. They were forced out of the Valley by the NC. It did not protect them and gave them the tag of migrants," alleged Gupta. He said the NC was unable to "digest the success of BJP candidates" in the ongoing Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) election and was resorting to "false propaganda to provoke and mislead the electorate". "Regretfully, the NC has not changed its mindset about the Kashmiri pandits, who were forced to leave the Valley during 1989 when the government headed by Dr Farooq Abdullah failed to look after their security and their lives were under constant danger due to threats from the extremists," Gupta said. "Today, when the Kashmiri pandits are exercising their democratic right and contesting the ULB election, the NC has unleashed a false propaganda that BJP is fielding only migrant candidates and ignoring the locals, which is far from the truth," he said. Gupta said the BJP has only fielded 36 migrant candidates while the rest were all local Kashmiris. "True to its style of politics, the NC is trying to create a communal divide by twisting the facts," the state BJP spokesperson said. He said the BJP was the first political party to welcome the elections in the state and had announced that it would field candidates in all constituencies. "The fact is that NC president Dr Farooq Abdullah had too announced his party's participation in the elections, but sensing imminent defeat, threw in the towel without contesting by announcing boycott of the polls," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The legal fraternity in Guwahati Wednesday welcomed the swearing-in of Justice Ranjan Gogoi as the chief justice of India, the first person from the northeast to occupy the post, calling it a "huge moment of pride" for Assam and the region. Gauhati High Court Bar Association president Atul Buragohain said the association members are very happy over the appointment of Justice Gogoi, as he is its first member to become the chief justice of India. Justice Gogoi was a member of the association after he became an advocate of the high court nearly four decades ago. He was born in Dibrugarh in Assam on November 18, 1954, and had enrolled as an advocate of Gauhati High Court in 1978. He practised law on constitutional, taxation and company matters. Buragohain described Justice Gogoi as a "jewel of the northeast" and not just of Assam. "He is an illustrious son of Assam - a man of principles and a very honest and upright man with a vision for independence of judiciary and protection of democratic rights," Buragohain told PTI. The members of the bar association pray for the success of Chief Justice Gogoi and for his long life and good health to serve the country and its people in general and the judiciary in particular, he added. Justice Gogoi will have a tenure of a little over 13 months. Senior Supreme Court advocate Upamanyu Hazarika said the assumption of office of chief justice of India by Justice Gogoi is a "huge moment of pride for northeast India and Assam." "It's only fitting that the first chief justice from the region should be a worthy representative like Justice Gogoi - a repository of the values of truthfulness, courage and honesty characterising people of the region and widely acknowledged as one of the finest judges in the Supreme Court," Hazarika said. Justice Gogoi, he said, is also a source of inspiration, particularly for the younger generation in Assam as he had built his career as a lawyer and a judge by being only in Guwahati barring the six years when he had studied in Delhi. "This demonstrates that to reach the highest position in one's chosen profession and become an accomplished judge it is not necessary to go out of Assam. Rather, there are immense possibilities in one's own place and in the process contribute to the growth and development of the region," Hazarika added. Senior advocate of the high court Sidhartha Sankar Dey said Justice Gogoi had matured as an advocate under the guidance of late advocate J P Bhattacharyya and he practiced in all branches of law. As a judge Justice Gogoi meticulously balances law, equity and social problems, he said. In the book 'Gauhati High Court - History and Heritage', which was released in the court premises in the presence of Justice Gogoi in August, its internationally-acclaimed author Arup Kumar Dutta had quoted former Assam law minister Abdul Muhib Mazumdar on him. Mazumdar had jocularly asked Justice Gogoi's father, late Keshav Gogoi, who was a Congress politician and former Assam chief minister, if his son would join politics and follow his path. To this, Kesav Gogoi had replied his son would not join politics and therefore would not become a chief minister. But he definitely had the potential to become the chief justice of India, Mazumdar was quoted to have said in the book, which was published by Publications Division of the Government of India. "Prophetic words, indeed", Dutta, a Padmashree winner, had written in his book. Justice Gogoi was appointed judge of Gauhati High Court in 2001 after practising as an advocate for 23 years and was transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court in September 2010. He was appointed the chief justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court just five months later in February 2011. He became a judge of the Supreme Court in April 2012. There had been speculations over Justice Gogoi's appointment as the next CJI after the SC's four most senior judges, including him, had called a press conference in January and criticised Justice Misra on various issues, specially in the manner of allocation of cases to certain benches. According to the Memorandum of Procedure, which governs the appointment of members of the higher judiciary, appointment to the office of the chief justice of India should be of the seniormost judge of the Supreme Court which Justice Gogoi was. He was named successor by former chief justice Dipak Misra earlier this month in accordance with the established practice. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Madras High Court Wednesday declined to grant any interim relief to former Union telecom minister Dayanidhi Maran and his elder brother Kalanithi Maran in trial proceedings against them in a CBI court in the "illegal" telephone exchange case. The judge posted the matter for further hearing on October 10. A CBI court here on August 30 had framed charges and ordered trial of Dayanidhi Maran and six others in the case of alleged setting up of "illegal" telephone exchanges to benefit the Sun TV of his brother Kalanithi Maran during 2004-06. The Maran brothers have sought quashing of the charges against them. When the matter came up on Wednesday before Justice A D Jagadish Chandira, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) G. Rajagopalan said the Supreme Court and the high court had already rejected their pleas seeking to discharge them from the case. "The courts have directed the trial court to recommence the hearing and complete it by 12 months. Moreover, the courts have upheld that a prima facie case has been made out and the CBI has sufficient evidence to proceed with the prosecution." He said charges have been framed in accordance "with the procedure" and wanted the court not to stall proceedings in the CBI court. Counsel for the petitioners sought time to file reply to the submissions made by the ASG and wanted the court to stay proceedings till then. However, the judge declined and posted the matter for next Wednesday. The charges date back to the time when Dayanidhi Maran, a grandnephew of late DMK chief M Karunanidhi, was Union minister for telecommunications and information technology in the UPA-1 government. The CBI has alleged that he misused his official position and got private telephone exchanges installed at his various residences here, which were used for business transactions of the Sun Network. The high court had on July 25 held that there were 'heaps' of material evidence against the accused and had directed the special court to frame charges and conclude the trial within a year. The bench had given its order on a CBI plea, challenging the discharge of the accused by Special Judge S Natarajan on March 14 this year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Claiming that there is "no Modi-wave today" in the country, former Union minister Shashi Tharoor said Wednesday the BJP will "be lucky to win 10 seats" in Uttar Pradesh in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, if the Congress, SP and BSP come together. The Congress MP from Thiruvanathapuram termed the 2019 polls as "a battle for India's democratic soul" and said his party would certainly bring the opposition parties on a single platform "though it is not simple and easy". "In 2014, Modi's party (along with allies) bagged 73 (Lok Sabha) seats out of 80 in Uttar Pradesh," Tharoor told reporters during an interactive session at Nalsar near here. "But had you added the votes of the three principal opposition parties - the Samajwadi Party, the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Congress, the BJP, at the peak of Modi's wave, would have lost 49 of these seats," he added. "But there is no Modi wave today in the country. You can be sure if these three parties campaign together, do not divide the vote, and put up common candidates in UP, they (BJP) will be lucky to win 10 seats in 2019," he said. Terming the 2019 polls as "a battle for India's democratic soul", the Congress leader said his party would never compromise on its core values. "For us (Congress) secularism is non-negotiable, inclusiveness is non-negotiable, social justice, particularly for the poor and marginalised communities, the adivasis and the vulnerable groups, is non-negotiable," he said. Tharoor, who has come out with a book on his understanding of Hindu religion, said Hinduism is a religion and Hindutva a political ideology. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tightening the noose on rogue builders, the Gautam Buddh Nagar administration on Wednesday booked seven persons, including directors, of a building firm under the Uttar Pradesh Gangsters Act, officials said. In total 21 persons were booked, including rogue builders, murder accused and robbers, under the UP Gangsters and Anti-Social Elements (Prevention) Act and orders were issued to attach their properties on Wednesday, district administration said. Directors of Earth Iconic Infrastructure Pvt Ltd, Rajneesh Mittal, Awadhesh Goyal and Atul Gupta, along with associates Vikas Gupta, Amit Gupta, Magandeep Kaur, Bushra Alam andNishant Arora have been booked, officials said. "In the name of developing a building in Noida's Sector 16 area, they had collected crores of rupees from innocent people doing (through) fraud and forgery. Their action has led to a scenario wherein people are living under fear of fraud when planning to buy a property," the administration said in an official letter, accessed by PTI. There are cases of fraud and cheating and related offences under the Indian Penal Code registered against the firm and its officials at Noida's Sector 20 police station, the officials said. Thirteen other persons from three different gangs and accused in cases of murder and robberies have been booked, they said. Cases against them are registered at various police stations in Gautam Buddh Nagar, they added. The latest action comes amid a continued crackdown on gangsters in the district, with the administration now attaching their properties and "ill-gotten" wealth under section 14 of the Gangsters Act. According to section 14 of the Gangsters Act, a district magistrate can order attachment of a property, whether movable or immovable, if there is reason to believe that it has been acquired by a gangster as commission for an offence triable under this law. "Under the provisions, the booked persons will be required to prove to the administration that their attached properties are not ill-gotten. They need to present evidence for their claims," a senior official told PTI. Till September end 569 anti-social elements, including 150 gang leaders and their 419 associates, had been booked under the Gangsters Act and orders issued for attaching properties, as the administration targeted their finance sources. The administration has written to all banks in the district to freeze the accounts of all the listed gang leaders and their associates and also monitor their transactions. It has also written to all government departments including income tax, sales tax, sub-divisional magistrates and local authorities and the police stations to keep a check on their transactions and properties. "The administration has also sought all related details about these gangsters from all departments within 15 days in order to proceed with further action," the official said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) State-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) said Wednesday it has awarded a Rs 11,740.86 crore contract for development of its mega KG-D5 oil and gas fields to a consortium of Baker Hughes, McDermott International and L&T Hydrocarbon Engineering. ONGC is developing a cluster of oil and gas discoveries in Krishna Godavari basin block KG-DWN-98/2 (KG-D5) at a cost of over USD 5 billion. The first gas is targeted for end 2019 and oil in March 2021. The consortium was awarded the subsea production system (SPS) including 34 deepwater trees, and the installation of subsea umbilicals, risers and flowlines (SURF) at water depth of between 300 metres and 3,200 metres, it said in a statement here. "This tender is one of the biggest integrated (SPS + SURF) tenders awarded globally in recent years," ONGC said. ONGC said it took a strategic decision of integrating hitherto separate work packages of SPS and SURF into a single integrated. "This will help eliminate major interface issues among SPS and SURF packages, resulting in time and cost optimisation to the company," the statement said. Total peak gas production rate from Cluster-2 is envisaged to be about 16 million standard cubic metres per day and peak oil production rate of 80,000 barrels per day. "ONGC envisages commencement of first gas production by December 2019, first oil by March 2021 and overall project completion by August 2021," it added. Baker Hughes, a GE company, will provide all of the subsea hardware as well as pre-commissioning services, and McDermott will bring its specialized fleet of pipelay and construction vessels and engineering, procurement, construction and installation capabilities, the two firms said in a separate statement. "By reducing the number of interfaces across the project, the group aims to reduce complexity, drive speed and increase execution efficiency for ONGC," it said. The project is one of the first major deepwater developments in India and a milestone for realizing country's domestic energy potential. "The group will offer a comprehensive solution that will also boost local manufacturing, in support of Make in India," the statement by Baker Hughes and McDermott said. The subsea award represents the largest single subsea contract awarded by ONGC. Delivery is scheduled for 2020 for the gas system and 2021 for the oil system, it said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan's powerful military has warned politicians against making "irresponsible" statements against it, saying such remarks were "detrimental" to the country's stability. The terse statement by the military came after former Punjab minister and a senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Rana Mashhood claimed that the party has struck a "deal" with the "establishment" under which it will form the Punjab provincial government within a few months in the politically crucial state. Reacting to Mashhood's statement, the military spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor described it as "baseless and regrettable". The Director General of Inter Services Public Relations, took to Twitter on Tuesday night, saying "Attribution of an obvious vested statement by Rana Mashhood is baseless and regrettable. Such irresponsible expressions are detrimental to stability in the country." The establishment is usually a terminology used for the military institution. The powerful military has ruled coup-prone Pakistan for nearly half of the country's history since independence in 1947. Mashhood stirred a controversy by claiming that PML-N chief and party supremo Nawaz Sharif's younger brother Shehbaz Sharif struck an understanding with the establishment to ameliorate the situation for the beleaguered party, the Express Tribune reported. "The party that won the election was being considered as a horse turned out to be a mule," he said in an interview to a private TV channel. "It is now strongly felt that Shehbaz Sharif would have been a better choice. If he had been prime minister, he would have handled things much better," he said. Mashhood said that Shehbaz had always been acceptable to the establishment because he talked about harmony between state institutions. When asked about Nawaz and former premier Shahid Khaqan Abbasi's statements pertaining to tensions between the civilian government and the military, Mashhood said: "Things have greatly improved as they [the establishment] have realised that they are banking on wrong people." Under fire, Mashhood in a tweet said his statement was "quoted out of context". The PML-N has not only distanced itself from the contents of Mashhood's interview but also strongly rejected any talk of a deal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a U-turn, Pakistan has announced that its close ally Saudi Arabia will not join the USD 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, days after Islamabad said Riyadh will be the third "strategic partner" of China's flagship project under the controversy-hit Belt and Road Initiative. The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of President Xi Jinping aimed at enhancing Beijing's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects. Minister for Planning and Development Khusro Bakhtiar told media on Tuesday that the cash-rich kingdom's proposed investments would fall under a separate bilateral arrangement, Dawn reported. "Saudi Arabia is not to become a collateral strategic partner in the CPEC. This impression is not true," he said. A third country can participate in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by taking part in the business and investment ventures arising out of the project, Bakhtiar said. "The framework between China and Pakistan is bilateral and Saudi Arabia is not entering that framework as a third-party investor, rather the base of the CPEC will be broadened and its pace will be expedited," he said. Last month, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said that Saudi Arabia is the third "strategic partner" of the CPEC, soon after Prime Minister Imran Khan returned from his first foreign trip to the kingdom. Interestingly Chaudhry was sitting with Bakhtiar when he issued clarification that Saudi Arabia participation in the CPEC was not as third partner in the project. Bakhtiar further said that there was no decision to bring a third country, like Saudi Arabia, under the framework of the CPEC. He was responding to questions about the possibility of Saudi Arabia becoming part of the Joint Working Groups or Joint Coordination Committee on the CPEC. Bakhtiar said there could be many offshoots of the CPEC where third countries could be involved in trilateral arrangement for infrastructure development, like China-Pakistan-Japan, China-Pakistan-Saudi Arabia or China-Pakistan-Germany. Bakhtiar said that any country can invest in the CPEC on project basis. Saudi Arabia or any other country, he said, can enter into a trilateral investment framework. He said the third-party investment framework has been designed in consultation with China. The minister dodged questions when asked how the cost of Main Railway Line (ML-I) had been reduced by a whopping USD 2 billion from USD 8.2 billion to USD 6.2 billion as claimed by Railways Minister Shaikh Rasheed Ahmed. "I have noticed this today that Sheikh Rasheed is making some efforts (to reduce the cost) but not to my knowledge. Nothing has come in front of me to suggest that the cost has come down," he said. Bakhtiar said the CPEC portfolio currently stands at about USD 50 billion, of which about USD 6 billion was government-to-government loan and remaining in Independent Power Producers mode mostly in the energy sector. About USD 29 billion worth of projects were currently in progress. He said the CPEC had far bigger potential than USD 50 billion and would keep expanding with time as new projects come up but the previous government treated and played it like a T-20 match instead of a five-day test series and focused mostly on projects which could be completed during its tenure. Currently, a Saudi delegation is in Pakistan for initial assessment to capitalise on the Pakistani offer. The US has criticised the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects, warning that the loans could turn into debt traps for poor countries unable to pay them back. Beijing denies the claims, saying the loans are a win-win situation for both the countries. The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar BRI, a pet project of Chinese President Xi, aimed at enhancing Beijing's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects India has opposed the CPEC project and protested to China as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US Vice President Mike Pence will make a major policy speech on China on Thursday, according to the think-tank where he will deliver his remarks. "We are honoured to announce that Vice President Mike Pence will deliver a major speech on the administration's policy towards China at Hudson Institute on Thursday," Kenneth Weinstein, president and CEO of Hudson Institute, a top American think-tank said on Tuesday. "Hudson welcomes the vice president back to the Institute for this timely discussion on efforts to protect America's democracy and strengthen our national security, Weinstein said. Pence's speech comes a week after President Donald Trump accused China of meddling in domestic politics and American elections. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A fresh plea was moved in the Supreme Court on Wednesday seeking to restrain the Centre from deporting to Myanmar seven Rohingyas lodged in a detention centre at Silchar in Assam. A bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, which made it clear to lawyers at the outset that it will not allow urgent mentioning of matters till the framing of "parameters" on such cases, said that it would take a decision on urgent hearing in this issue after perusing the application. The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, was told by lawyer Prashant Bhushan that some Rohingya refugees were on the verge of being deported and the matter required urgent hearing. "No mentioning. We will work out the parameters then we will see as to how mentioning will be done," the bench said, adding that matters like execution of a death row convict, eviction cases can be heard urgently. Initially, the bench asked Bhushan to file the plea and on being told that the application has already been filed, it said, "We will peruse the file and the decide". The fresh plea has been filed challenging the decision of the Centre to deport seven Rohingya immigrants, who have been staying in Assam illegally, to their home country Myanmar on Thursday. Rohingya immigrants will be handed over to the Myanmar authorities in Moreh border post in Manipur on Thursday, a home ministry official has said. The interim plea, seeking urgent measures to stop the proposed deportation of seven Rohingyas, has been filed in a pending PIL. The PIL was filed earlier by two Rohingya immigrants -- Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir -- challenging the Centre's decision to deport over 40,000 refugees who came to India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination and violence against the community. The fresh plea said that the decision to deport was in "grave violation" of India's international obligation and moreover, the situation in Myanmar was extremely dangerous for the Rohingyas to return and they are likely to be subjected to torture and even killed. "Pass an order restraining the Union of India from taking any steps towards the deportation of any Rohingya refugees lodged in jails or detention centres in Assam or other parts of the country in contravention of non-derogable principles of customary international law and during the pendency if the case," the plea said. Issue direction to officials of prison at Silchar Central jail in Assam and Union Home Ministry to "allow and facilitate the detenues in question as a well as other detenues on other prisons in Assam to approach the UNHCR in New Delhi to determine/ascertain if they are in need of international protection as refugees within its mandate and for grant of refugee identification cards," it said. The plea also referred to alarm raised by United Nations Human Rights expert over the proposed deportation of seven Rohingya to Myanmar, saying their forcible return could constitute "refoulement" which was violative of international law. Earlier, the apex court had appointed area Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) as nodal officers who could be approached by the Rohingya immigrants living at Kalindi Kunj in Delhi and Mewat in Haryana with grievances relating to health care, water, sanitation and education. The bench was hearing petitions including the two filed by Zaffar Ullah and two Rohingyas -- Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir. While one plea challenged the Centre's decision to deport over 40,000 refugees who came to India, the other has sought several human and civic rights for the immigrants here. The Rohingyas, who fled to India after violence in the Western Rakhine State of Myanmar, are settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pattali Makkal Katchi Wednesday said it would a hold protest demonstration on October 5 across Tamil Nadu to condemn the unprecedented hike in fuel prices. PMK's founder leader Dr S Ramadoss will preside over the protest at Tindivanam and party president GK Mani will lead the stir here, a party release said. "People should be apprised about the impact of the hike in petrol and diesel prices and they too should be exhorted to take part in the protest," a party release said. The price of petrol today in Tamil Nadu is Rs 87.18 and diesel Rs 79.58 (per litre). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Police have foiled three bids to smuggle bovines and rescued 140 animals in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir, an official said Wednesday. Police teams intercepted a total of six trucks at Nashri, Chanderkote and Ramban on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway on Tuesday evening, he said. Three bovines smugglers were arrested and the trucks were seized, the official said, adding that separate cases were registered against the three accused persons. Those arrested have been identified as Anwar Ali, Munshi Khan of Jammu and Mohd Asdullah of Anantnag in south Kashmir, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US Secretary of State would travel to next week to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, his spokesperson said on Tuesday. Pompeo, on a four-nation Asian trip from October 6 to 8 would also travel to Japan, South and "In Tokyo, October 6-7, the Secretary will meet with Prime Minister Abe and Foreign Minister Taro Kono. In Pyongyang, October 7, the Secretary will meet with Chairman Kim Jong Un," State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert told reporters at a news conference. "In Seoul, October 7-8, the Secretary will meet with President Moon Jae-in, and Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha," said adding that in Beijing, October 8, he will meet with his Chinese counterparts to discuss bilateral, regional, and global issues. "Throughout the secretary's trip he will reiterate the administration's continued focus on the final, fully verifiable, denuclearisation of North and longstanding commitment to our alliances and partnerships in the region," Nauert said. Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu has asked various ministries such as textiles, MSME and chemicals to explore export opportunities in South Asia with a view to promoting India's outward shipments. The Commerce Ministry was focusing on nine sectors - gems and jewellery, leather, textile and apparel, engineering, electronics, chemicals and petrochemicals, pharma, agri and allied and marine products, an official statement said Wednesday. The minister held a review meeting of the Sectoral Export Promotion Strategy last week. The meeting was attended by Commerce Secretary, DG Foreign Trade, Secretaries of Textiles and Chemicals and Petrochemicals, other senior officers from Ministries and Departments of Electronics, MSME, Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Defence Production. "He urged the ministries to work on tapping the opportunities with countries in this region, particularly in South Asia, as there is huge potential to increase India's exports," the ministry said in a statement. The Minister also underlined the need for exploring barter arrangements with specific countries as well as collaborative exports in partnership with other countries. Prabhu asked the line ministries to adhere to India's WTO commitments while designing their export promotion policies. The Commerce Minister further said that industries which were relocating from China on account of rising labour cost should be invited to invest in India. In the meeting, Commerce Secretary Anup Wadhawan, informed the participants that comprehensive efforts were being made for promoting exports of merchandise and services to improve and stabilise the current account. He stated that specific short and long term goals, and territory and commodity wise action points have been identified by the Commerce Department for export promotion. He also said that discussions were on to provide priority sector status to export credit to enhance the volume of credit and for enhancement of allocation for interest subvention scheme and for SEIS and MEIS. Exports are up by 16.13 per cent to USD 136.10 billion in AprilAugust 2018-19. DGFT informed that based on the inputs received from Export Promotion Councils, line ministries and other stakeholders, a comprehensive export strategy and action plan has been finalised. "Commodity-wise and territory-wise specific short-term and long-term goals have been put on a matrix, to enable regular monitoring of implementation of action plan at the highest level," it said. Issues like removal of pre-import condition, retrospective amendment in CGST rules, allowing flexibility of product mix in case of pharma products as long as pollution load is same, have been taken up with the respective ministries. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Commerce and Industry Minister will chair an inter-ministerial meeting Thursday to discuss the depreciating rupee and widening trade deficit, an official said. The meeting will deliberate upon ways to address India's trade deficit in goods and pressure on the rupee, the official added. Representatives from the department of economic affairs, coal ministry, steel ministry, oil ministry and department of pharmaceuticals are expected to attend the meeting. The meeting assumes significance as the rupee has hit an all-time high of 73.74 against the US dollar, which would raise India's import bill and widen the trade deficit (difference between imports and exports). The trade deficit was at a five-year high of $18.02 billion in July. It came down to $17.4 billion in August. During the April-August period this fiscal, the country's exports recorded a growth of 16.13 per cent, while imports grew by 17.34 per cent. The depreciating rupee puts pressure on the country's The domestic currency has depreciated nearly 13 per cent since the beginning of this year. Besides having impact on current account deficit, the sliding rupee has made imports costlier and led to skyrocketing to record highs. India is the third largest importer of Oil imports during the first five months of the current fiscal rose by 53.55 per cent to $58.81 billion. Since 2011-12, India's exports have been hovering at around $300 billion. During 2017-18, the shipments grew by about 10 per cent to $303 billion. Promoting exports helps a country to create jobs, boost manufacturing and earn more foreign exchange. Asserting that the United Nations should be more responsive towards the needs of all countries, President Ram Nath Kovind Wednesday emphasised on the need for reform of the world body's security council that has five permanent members including China. Welcoming Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres, who arrived here Monday on his maiden visit to India as the head of the world body, Kovind said India remains fully committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) "And our commitment is not limited to our country. Our development cooperation programmes are helping others to meet these goals as well," he was quoted as saying in an official statement. The president said India believes multilateralism is indispensable in a globalising world. "India remains committed to it," he said. However, to our understanding multilateralism and global governance in their present form are not working effectively, the president said. The UN must adapt itself to the changing times. It should be more responsive to the needs of all countries, he said. The president said no reform of the UN would be complete without reforming the UN Security Council. "The current permanent membership of the security council does not reflect contemporary global realities. He emphasised that the security council's membership and work methods need to be updated to equip it to face the challenges of the 21st century," the statement said. The UN Security Council has five permanent members - The US, The UK, Russia, France and China. The president said India deeply values Guterres's participation in the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention and the 4th anniversary of the Swachh Bharat campaign. Kovind thanked him for all the support he has given to spread the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. He said that in the past few years, India has witnessed transformative changes powered by digital technology and inclusive development policies, be it in gender empowerment, sanitation, financial inclusion, provision of clean cooking fuel to over 250 million people, making available health insurance to over 500 million people, or giving access to electricity to millions across the country. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday called former spy Sergei Skripal "a traitor to the homeland", admitting Moscow knew he had cooperated with foreign intelligence upon his release in a 2010 spy swap. "He is just a scumbag," Putin told an energy forum in Moscow, referring to the Russian ex-spy who Britain says was poisoned with a Soviet-designed nerve agent by members of Russia's military intelligence. "He is just a spy, a traitor to the homeland." "He was caught, he was punished, he spent five years in prison, we let him go, he left and continued cooperating with, providing consultations to (foreign) security services. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his BJP counterpart Amit Shah will be visiting Madhya Pradesh on October 6 ahead of the Assembly elections which are due by year-end. While Gandhi will be in the BJP-ruled state for only one day, Shah will be making multiple visits over the next few days to meet party workers, respective spokespersons of the two parties said. The Congress chief will arrive in Morena via Gwalior on October 6 to take part in Ekta Parishad conclave, a party spokesperson said. He will proceed to Jabalpur on the same day where he will perform 'Narmada Puja' at Gwari Ghat and later hold a roadshow. Gandhi will also speak at a public meeting at Raddi Chowk in Jabalpur in the evening before leaving for Delhi. The BJP president will visit Indore on October 6 where he will meet party workers of Indore and Ujjain regions, a BJP spokesperson said. Shah will visit Gwalior on October 9 to meet party workers from Gwalior and Chambal regions. On October 14, he will interact with workers from Sagar, Bhopal and Hoshangabad regions and the next day he will meet BJP cadres of Rewa, Shahdol and Jabalpur, the spokesperson said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje has lost the moral authority to rule as there is resentment against her among all sections of society. He said government employees are on strike for several days but Raje is not bothered and is instead busy hurriedly dedicating incomplete projects to the public. Gehlot was referring to the strike by the Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) employees and Tuesday's inauguration of Dravyavati River Rejuvenation Project by Raje. "She (Raje) is afraid and not able to face the people. She is getting people arrested for showing her black flags. How can she rule when she cannot even face the people? She has lost the moral authority to rule," he told reporters here. The former chief minister said resistance among people during Raje's 'Gaurav Yatra' showed that it will turn into her 'Vidai Yatra' (departure yatra). The resistance led to Raje using helicopters during her yatra instead of a bus, as was originally planned, he added. "People gave her a huge mandate in the last elections but she betrayed them and remained inaccessible. She used to visit Jaipur as a tourist and all those things are still fresh in the minds of people," Gehlot said. Raje is looking at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for help, but he will have no impact this time, he said. The term of the Rajasthan assembly will end on January 20, 2019, and elections are due by the year-end. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Wednesday relaxed policy on borrowing from overseas to allow state-owned fuel retailers to raise up to USD 10 billion external debt for working capital needs. Till now oil marketing companies were not allowed to raise external commercial borrowing (ECB) for working capital needs on a long-term basis. They could raise a maximum of one-year overseas loan by way of buyers credit, repay it within 12 months and raise it again thereafter. Now, the RBI has allowed them to raise ECB of minimum maturity of 3 or 5 years. The move comes at a time when international oil prices have hit four-year high of near USD 85 per barrel and the rupee plummeted to close at an all-time low of Rs 73.34 to a US dollar. Indian Oil Corp (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd (HPCL) will be allowed to raise overseas funds with a minimum average maturity period of 3 or 5 years under the automatic route. The RBI also lifted the individual borrowing limit set at USD 750 million under the external commercial borrowing (ECB) framework. With oil prices climbing to four-year high and the rupee plunging to new lows, imports have come costlier. Oil companies now need a higher working capacity to meet their monthly import requirements. India is 81 per cent dependent on imports to meet its oil needs. "Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies will raise USD 10 billion for 3-5 year for financing their permanent working capital. RBI has also granted necessary exemptions under the ECB policy," Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg said in a tweet. Separately, the RBI said the overall ceiling for such external commercial borrowings will be USD 10 billion equivalent and the said facility will come into effect from the date of the circular. "It has been decided, in consultation with the Government of India, to liberalise the said provision and permit public sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to raise ECB for working capital purposes with a minimum average maturity period of 3/5 years from all recognized lenders under the automatic route," the circular said. Commenting on the decision, IOC Director (Finance) A K Sharma said it is a welcome move as it would provide stability to working capital needs of oil companies. "It is a welcome step. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Ministry of Human Resource Development has warned higher educational institutions of strict action if they do not return the fees of those withdrawing admissions. Institutions are bound to return fees and original documents of students in case a candidate opts to withdraw the admission, according to the norms of the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). "Any institution not returning fees in case of withdrawal of admission will have to face action," HRD Minister for State (MoS) Satya Pal Singh tweeted on Wednesday. It has been often noticed that some institutions don't refund fees or deduct an extravagant amount while returning, a senior HRD Ministry official explained. The AICTE and UGC have been instructed to take punitive action against such institutions, including deemed varsities, if they fail to enforce the directions. This could include withdrawal of approval and recognition of erring institutions, the official added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) South Africa's finance minister gave damning testimony Wednesday against former president Jacob Zuma, accusing him of pushing policies designed to benefit the wealthy family at the heart of a government corruption scandal. Nhlanhla Nene was sacked by Zuma in 2015 in a move that shocked many South Africans and foreign investors as allegations grew that Zuma and the Gupta family were overseeing rampant state corruption. The Gupta brothers are accused of fraudulently profiting from vast government contracts and energy and transport deals under Zuma, who was ousted earlier this year by the ruling ANC party. Nene was re-appointed as finance minister by the new president, Cyril Ramaphosa, who has vowed to crack down on graft and to revive growth in South Africa, the continent's most advanced economy. "I do believe that I was removed from office due to my refusal to toe the line in relation to certain projects," Nene told a judicial inquiry into state corruption. "Those projects may have benefitted the Gupta family and other close associates of the then president... for instance the nuclear deal and the SAA (South African Airways) strategy." Nene, speaking under oath at the hearings, said that his then deputy Mcebisi Jonas was offered his job after Nene refused to back a proposed USD 100-billion Russian-built nuclear programme that the Guptas were set to benefit from. "It makes sense that those who wish to pursue a systematic strategy to raid the public coffers... would attack the role or credibility of the national treasury," Nene said, piling accusations of misconduct on Zuma. Nene added that pressure was put on the treasury "to conceal dubious or irregular procurement". He described the cost of the proposed nuclear power stations as "astronomical" and posing a threat to the country's finances. At a meeting with Zuma in 2015 when Nene declined to back the nuclear project, Nene said he received "a very tense and hostile" response from Zuma who wanted to report on progress to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The inquiry, which opened in August, is probing allegations that Zuma organised a web of graft at government departments and public enterprises in a scandal known as "state capture". Zuma was forced to resign in February over allegations centring around the Guptas, who reportedly held such sway that they chose some of Zuma's cabinet ministers. Former deputy finance minister Jonas has previously told the inquiry that one of the Gupta brothers threatened to kill him after Jonas refused to accept a USD 40 million bribe. Nene told the inquiry that he met Jonas on a balcony to avoid being bugged by the intelligence services, saying "even when you look at a flower pot, you are not sure." The Guptas owned a uranium mine, which would have seen profits soar from the nuclear deal, as well as a portfolio of mining, technology and media companies. When Nene was fired in 2015, Zuma replaced him with a little-known loyalist who lasted four days in the job as markets dived and investors pulled out of the country before a more respected minister was appointed. The India-born Gupta brothers -- Ajay, Atul and Rajesh -- have left South Africa and are now based in Dubai. Both Zuma and the Guptas, who employed Zuma's son Duduzane, deny any wrongdoing. The inquiry chair, deputy chief justice Raymond Zondo, urged public officials to give evidence. "I just hope people will realise it will be better if they come forward on their own... rather than be dragged screaming and kicking," he said. "This is a very serious issue in our country, the whole country wants to know what happened." Ramaphosa faces difficult elections next year as public support has declined for the ANC party, which has ruled since Nelson Mandela came to power in 1994 after the end of apartheid rule. Zuma, 76, has also been charged with 16 counts of graft linked to an arms deal from before he became president. He will next appear in court on November 30. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) : Rejecting the Opposition demand to file a review petition in the Supreme Court against its order, allowing women of all age groups into Sabarimala, the Kerala government Wednesday said it would implement the verdict in the coming pilgrim season itself. A high-level meeting here of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), which manages the Lord Ayyappa temple, also decided to make necessary arrangements for women pilgrims visiting the hill shrine when it opens for the annual pilgrimage season on October 16. Opposition Congress termed the CPI(M)-led LDF government's decision as 'unilateral' and said it was against the interest of a majority of Ayyappa devotees in and outside the state. It alleged that TDB President A Padmakumar, who earlier pitched for filing the review, had backtracked from his stand after Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan 'chided' him. The party also decided to convene a meeting of former presidents and board members of the TDB Thursday to decide the future course of action on the matter. The Sabarimala Temple had restricted the entry of women belonging to the age group between 10-50 due as part of its age-old tradition. On October 28, a five-judge constitution bench, headed by the then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine. Vijayan said that as a government, it has to abide by the directives of the top court and make necessary arrangements for women devotees visiting the shrine. "It is the responsibility of the government to implement the court order without any compromise. We will ensure that necessary arrangements are provided for women devotees in the coming season itself," he told reporters here. He also took exception to the TDB president's recent remark that they were not expecting a large number of women devotees at the shrine in the wake of the apex court order. On the protest launched by various outfits against implementing the court verdict, the Chief Minister said no one has the right to prevent women devotees if they want to offer worship at the shrine. "When the Supreme Court has taken a stand after considering all aspects of the matter, people have to accept the law of the land. The government is for implementing it," he added. After the TDB meeting, Padmakumar said the Board discussed the Supreme Court order in detail and decided not to file the review petition. "We view the apex court verdict with utmost seriousness. After discussing all the aspects, the meeting decided not to file the review petition in the present context," he said. Detailing the preparations for the coming pilgrimage season, he said special facilities would be provided to the devotees at Pamba and Nilackal, the base camps. Temporary dormitories, women-friendly toilets and more drinking water facilities would be arranged, he said, adding that all existing arrangements would be made better useful for women devotees. "The Board expects 40 per cent more devotees at the shrine this season in the wake of the SC verdict," Padmakumar said, adding there was no room for any concern on the Sabarimala pilgrimage. Meanwhile, Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala flayed the government and the TDB for its decision to implement the verdict in haste. The TDB had "failed" in its duty to safeguard the interests of Ayyappa devotees, he alleged. He demanded that the state or the central government come out with an ordinance "to overcome the Supreme Court verdict" and protect the interests of devotees of Lord Ayyappa. Chennithala also said the district Congress committee in Pathanamthitta would stage a fast Friday to protest the stand taken by the state government on the Sabarimala issue. Activists of Yuva Morcha, the BJP's youth wing, took out rallies in all panchayats across the state Wednesday, urging the government to protect the centuries-old rituals and tradition of the hill shrine. They also burnt an effigy of Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran at various places. Hundreds of Ayyappa devotees, including women, Tuesday had blocked state and national highways in various parts of Kerala protesting the Supreme Court verdict. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Around 100 sadhus (Hindu ascetics) were detained by the police here Wednesday after they staged a sit-in for five days to demand control of temples in Madhya Pradesh. Sub Divisional Officer of Police P P Gautam said the sadhus were rounded up from near Kamala Park here, where they were squatting for the last five days. Police took action fearing breach of peace, took them to Bairagarh area here in buses, and released them later, he said. Mahant Ram Giriji Maharaj from Rajgarh district, who led the sadhus, said they were protesting peacefully to press their demand of control of temples and 'matths' (monasteries), and police arrested them for no reason. "The BJP government is ill-treating us. We are not being allowed to protest democratically," Maharaj said. Since 1974, district collectors act as custodians of "matth and mandir" (monasteries and temples) in the state, he said. "We want that sadhus should be made custodians of temples and monasteries," he said, adding that they would continue the agitation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court has allowed National Buildings Construction Corporation Ltd (NBCC) to float tenders for selecting the builder to complete the stalled projects of Amrapali Group. The top court also asked the NBCC to prepare a detailed project report for pending projects within 60 days. A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and U U Lalit asked the NBCC to submit the detailed proposals along with their terms and conditions before the court and directed the existing architects of Amrapali Group of Companies to ensure cooperation with the NBCC. The top court said non-cooperation by existing architects of Amrapali with the NBCC will be "viewed seriously". The bench was informed that proceedings before the Debts Recovery Tribunal (DRT), Delhi for sale of the unsold inventory of Amrapali Group has started, valuation of properties has been ordered, and the tribunal has directed for production of original documents, sanctioned plans and other relevant documents with the company. The bench directed the Amrapali Group of companies and directors -- Anil Kumar Sharma, Shiv Priya and Ajay Kumar to submit the maps which clearly delineate unencumbered portion of their individual as well as company properties and other details which have been asked by the DRT. The bench also directed the company representatives and the directors to be present before the DRT on each and every date, unless they are specifically dispensed with by the tribunal. The court allowed the DRT to move ahead with the process of finding out the encumbrances of the properties and permitted the Bank of Maharashtra and all other such creditors who may have charge on the unencumbered property to state their claim before the DRT. The bench noted that its earlier order of handing over of the documents by the statutory auditors as well as by the Amrapali group of companies to the forensic auditors has been violated. "With respect to the handing over of the documents by the statutory auditors as well as by the Amrapali Group of Companies, we note it regrettably, that the order passed by this Court has been violated and the documents have not been handed over in spite of clear and categorical direction to handover the documents to forensic auditors within ten days," it said. Advocate Gaurav Bhatia, appearing for Amrapali, said the statutory auditors will hand over documents to the forensic auditors. The bench then directed that all the necessary documents from 2008 to till now, which may be in possession of Amrapali Group of companies in addition to statutory auditors be handed over to the forensic auditors "Let account books in whatever status they are, at present, be handed over. We request the forensic auditors to send their representative on the next date of hearing to apprise us of compliance of this order," the bench said. The court also sought the details of all the outstanding dues of secured and unsecured creditors project-wise and in total. Advocate M L Lahoty, appearing for home buyers, alleged that there were certain existing directors -- Anurag Sanghai, Vinay Vishal and Sankalp Shukla whose particulars of properties have not been filed as ordered by the Court. He pointed out that there are several other existing or former directors whose names have not been disclosed. The court directed that the names of all the directors be disclosed without remiss before the next date fixed along with details of assets as already ordered by this court. On September 12, the apex court had appointed state-run NBCC to develop stalled projects of the Amrapali Group and directed the Debts Recovery Tribunal to sell the unencumbered commercial properties of the real estate firm. It had directed the opening of an escrow account in the apex court in which the amount received after the sale of properties would be deposited and later disbursed to the NBCC to start construction of the pending projects in Group A and B Categories. It also directed that bank accounts, balance sheets and other documents of all 46 Amrapali companies and Jotindra Steel, since 2008 be given to the forensic auditors. The apex court had on September 6 identified 16 properties of the Amrapali Group for auctioning, preferably by the NBCC, to give the PSU an initial corpus to start work on the stalled projects. It had also ordered a forensic audit of the firm and its promoters to gauge the extent of financial wrongdoings. The group CMD had come under the top court's scanner for declaring his assets worth at Rs 67 crore as against Rs 847 crore in his affidavit filed during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, when he had unsuccessfully contested as a JD(U) candidate from Bihar's Jehanabad constituency. The NBCC had earlier given a proposal for completion of 15 residential projects of Amrapali having 46,575 flats at an estimated cost of Rs 8,500 crore in six to 36 months. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Wednesday sought reports within two weeks from state governments and Union Territories on the status of setting up rehabilitation homes for people with mental illness. Ten states and a UT have filed their response on the compliance of the Centre's guidelines for setting up of rehabilitation homes for persons living with mental illness (who have been cured, or who do not need further hospitalization, or who are homeless or are not accepted by their families). A bench of Justices U U Lalit and D Y Chandrachud which issued fresh notice said that it will go into the merits of the case after all states and UTs have filed their responses in two weeks. Petitioner in-person advocate Gaurav Bansal said that more than 15,000 people are forced to stay with the mentally ill patients. He said that except for few, many states and UTs have not complied with the order of July 10, 2017, in which they were asked to implement the guidelines prepared by Centre within one year period. The bench said it will take up the matter for hearing immediately after three weeks and asked Bansal to prepare a chart based on the replies filed by the state. States and UTs which have filed their response include Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Meghalaya, Punjab, Nagaland, West Bengal, Telangana, Tripura, Delhi, Puducherry and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. On July 10 last year, the apex court had taken on record the affidavit filed by Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities of Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment by which it had highlighted the guidelines for the State Governments for setting up rehabilitation homes for persons living with mental illness. The apex court had asked the Union Ministry to circulate the guidelines to all the state governments and UTs, with a direction to implement them within one year. It had also directed the state governments to comply with the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and file a status report most definitely before August 1, 2018. On February 14, the apex court had favoured framing of a uniform national policy to deal with those suffering from mental illness and their release from hospitals after being cured. It had said that the issue concerned figured in the concurrent list of the Constitution and hence the Centre also has the authority to frame norms. The PIL filed by Bansal has raised the issue of release of about 300 persons from various mental hospitals in Uttar Pradesh, alleging they were still languishing there despite being cured of their ailments and most of them belonging to poorer sections. Earlier, the court had issued notices to six states on the PIL seeking release of over 300 cured persons still languishing in mental hospitals in Uttar Pradesh. States like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Kerala, Jammu and Kashmir and Meghalaya were asked to respond on why the people, who are now fit for discharge from mental hospitals, were still kept there. The PIL has alleged that many underprivileged persons were still languishing in mental hospitals despite being cured and there was no policy in place to ensure their well-being after release. The plea also referred to responses received under RTI with regard to the release of persons living in mental hospitals at Bareilly, Varanasi and Agra in Uttar Pradesh even after being cured. The queries, which were posed under transparency law to Mental Health Hospital, Bareilly, Institute of Mental Health and Hospital, Agra and Mental Hospital, Varanasi, pertained to names, residential address and age of the patients who were now normal and waiting for discharge from these hospitals. Bansal had also sought information about the year in which the patients were declared fit for discharge. The plea had sought issuance of directions to states and others to "forthwith make arrangements to shift the patients, who are absolutely normal and are fit for discharge, from the mental hospitals to any other secure place like Old Age Homes etc". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Seven Myanmarese nationals, who were in detention in Cachar Central Jail in Silchar, were deported on Wednesday and are currently "in transit", police said here. "The Myanmarese nationals are currently in transit but I cannot divulge the country or the route through which they were deported", Assam Additional Director General of Police (Border) Bhaskarjyoti Mahanta told PTI. Deportation of foreign nationals have been going on for sometime and earlier during the year "we have deported several Bangladeshi, Myanmarese and Pakistani nationals", he added. The seven persons, who are suspected to be Rohingya muslims though the police did not confirm it, were apprehended on July 29, 2012, for violating the Foreigners Act and have been in detention at the Silchar Central Jail. The deported persons have been identified as Md Jamal, Mohbul Khan, Jamal Hussain, Md Yonus, Sabir Ahmed, Rahim Uddin and Md Salam, all are in the age bracket of 26-32 years, a Cachar district official said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Several Indian companies and a few individuals from India have been barred by the World Bank from its various projects across the globe, the multi-lateral lending agency said in its new report. In its latest annual report on Wednesday, the World Bank said Olive Health Care and Jay Modi from India have been debarred from for their fraudulent and corrupt practices. They were working on a World Bank project in While Olive Health has been debarred for 10 years and six months, Modi has been debarred for seven years and six months, the report said. In all 78 companies and individuals have been debarred by the World Bank. The inaugural report, the bank said, is the result of efforts by the Integrity Vice Presidency (INT), the Office of Suspension and Debarment (OSD) and the Sanctions Board to prepare a joint overview of the Bank Group Sanctions System and its activities over the past year. India-based Angelique Limited has been debarred by the World Bank for four years and six months for their fraudulent and corrupt practices. The company had a World Bank project in and Family Care from India too has been debarred by the World Bank for four years on similar grounds. They had projects in Argentina and For fraudulent practices, Madhucon Projects Ltd from India has been debarred by the World Bank for two years. It had World Bank projects in India. R KD Construction Pvt Ltd has been debarred for one year and six months for the same reason. It has projects in India. Among other Indian companies debarred by the World Bank for less than a year are Tatve Global Environment Pvt Ltd, SMEC (India) Pvt Ltd, and Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd. In addition to the 78 debarments, five firms were sanctioned with conditional non-debarment, which means they remain eligible to participate in World Bank-financed projects but will be debarred if they do not meet certain agreed-upon conditions. Each of the sanctions related to a finding that the firm or individual engaged in one of the institution's five sanctionable practices fraud, corruption, collusion, coercion or obstruction while participating in a Bank Group-funded project, the bank said. The institution also recognised 73 cross-debarments from other multilateral development banks. In addition to evaluating allegations of fraud and corruption, INT works to prevent corruption in ongoing Bank Group projects. INT staff identified and worked to mitigate integrity risks in 390 projects, steps that made progress in safeguarding the equivalent of $2.2 billion in project commitments, it said. Several MLAs of a "major political party" in Maharashtra are in contact with the Shiv Sena, Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Raut said Wednesday. "The Sena under the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray is impenetrable and strong," Raut, a senior Shiv Sena leader, said. "But those who are spreading rumours (about unrest in the Sena) should see that their own MLAs and MPs are deserting them. There is uneasiness in their party," he said. He did not name the BJP, with which his party has had an uneasy alliance. But his comments came a day after BJP MLA Ashish Deshmukh, a staunch proponent of separate Vidarbha state, announced that he was quitting the party. "There are several MLAs, important leaders from Maharashtra, of a major political party who are in contact with the Sena and are looking for the right time and opportunity (to cross over). They include some well-known names," Raut told a channel. Responding to Raut's claim, BJP leader and state finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar said the Constitution gives every citizen the freedom to choose political inclination. However, Sena workers and leaders too have this freedom, he pointed out. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The city government of Osaka said Tuesday that it has sent a document to officially end its 61-year-old sister-city ties with San Francisco over a statue in the U.S. city symbolizing the issue of "comfort women" for Japanese soldiers during World War II. Speaking to reporters at the city hall, Osaka Mayor Hirofumi Yoshimura reiterated criticism of the comfort women statue and its inscription reading that hundreds of thousands of women were sexually enslaved between 1931 and 1945. "It's not based on facts. It's Japan bashing," Yoshimura said. "We shouldn't continue the sister-city relations after we lost mutual trust." The Japanese city took a decision last December to sever the ties with San Francisco. But it refrained from sending the official documents for the breakup, following the sudden passing of the U.S. city's mayor at the time. After new San Francisco Mayor London Breed took office in July, Osaka sent a letter requesting her to remove the statue. But the new mayor has not responded to it. The SFIO has started investigations into the affairs of crisis-hit IL&FS and its subsidiaries amid concerns over financial irregularities, according to a senior official. In a rare move, the government has superseded the board of IL&FS on Monday against the backdrop of debt defaults by some of its group entities that triggered fears of liquidity crunch. The corporate affairs ministry, on whose petition the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) allowed superseding IL&FS board on Monday, has ordered the SFIO probe. The official said the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) has started the probe into affairs of IL&FS and its subsidiaries. The agency has started gathering information and once the hypothesis is ready, then a decision would be taken into what all specific aspects need to be investigated, the official added. IL&FS had 24 direct and 135 indirect subsidiaries in 2017-18. In a release issued on Monday, the ministry said the decision to supersede the board was taken after considering a report from its Regional Director, Mumbai, that "clearly brought out serious corporate-related deficiencies in the IL&FS holding company and its subsidiaries". "It was noted that the consolidated financial statement of IL&FS holding company and its subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures projected a picture through highly exaggerated depiction of non-current assets in the form of intangible assets amounting to over Rs 20,000 crore," it had said. According to the ministry, there have also been serious complaints on some of the companies for which an SFIO investigation has been ordered. Among other factors, the ministry said that due to excessive leveraging, there was "deep-rooted mismatch in the debt-equity ratio". "The high debt stress was clearly visible in the company and its main subsidiaries for the last so many years, but was camouflaged by misrepresentation of facts. Besides, the fact that the company continued to pay dividends and huge managerial pay-outs regardless of looming liquidity crisis...," the release had said. During financial year 2017-18, IL&FS had 169 group companies. Out of them, 24 were direct subsidiaries, 135 indirect subsidiaries, 6 joint ventures and 4 companies were associate companies, the ministry's petition filed before the NCLT had said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The CBI's decision not to challenge the discharge granted to BJP president Amit Shah in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh alleged fake encounter case in 2014 was a "conscious" and "reasonable" move, the agency told the Bombay High Court Wednesday. Seeking dismissal of two Public Interest Litigations (PILs) questioning the CBI's decision, the central agency said the pleas are "politically motivated" and "publicity stunts". The petitioner's counsel, however, argued that the CBI had changed its stand on Amit Shah after the change of government at the Centre in 2014. Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh told the court that the investigating agency had studied the trial court's order granting discharge to Shah as well as various subsequent orders of appellate courts upholding the same. Two PILs were filed in the HC urging it to ask the CBI why it had chosen not to challenge Shah's discharge, though the agency had filed revision applications against the discharge of two other persons in the case. A bench of Justices Ranjit More and Bharati Dangre Wednesday heard the PILs, filed by the Bombay Lawyers' Association (BLA) and a local journalist. The bench has reserved its order. A special CBI court had in 2014 discharged Shah in the case of alleged fake encounter killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh in 2005. "After going through these orders (of the trial court and of appellate courts), we decided that the order of discharge did not require any judicial review and hence, we took a conscious decision to not file any applications challenging Shah's discharge from the case," Singh said. He made these submissions while opposing the two PILs. Appearing for the BLA, senior advocate Dushyant Dave urged the court to intervene in the case. He argued that the CBI had been roped in by the Supreme Court to probe the killings of Sheikh, his wife Kausar Bi, and their aide Tulsiram Prajapati because the apex court had reposed its trust in the independent agency. "Hence, the CBI should have been impartial and treated all accused persons in the same manner. Why did it then challenge the discharge granted to police officers N K Amin and Dalpat Singh Rathod, but went quiet in Shah's case?" Dave questioned. He said the CBI had opposed the discharge plea filed by Shah before a special court in the city in April 2014, but changed its stand after Shah was discharged in December 2014. "They had called him (Shah) one of the main conspirators in the case at that time. However, in December 2014, Shah was granted discharge in the case and the CBI changed its stand on his role. "That is because the general elections took place and the government at the Centre changed. But, isn't the CBI supposed to be impartial irrespective of who is in power at the Centre?" Dave asked. Countering Dave, Singh said there was no law that makes it must for the CBI to file appeals or revision applications in case of every discharge. He urged the bench to dismiss the pleas saying that the same were "politically motivated" and that they were"publicity stunts". Singh argued that since Shah had been granted a discharge by a special CBI court in December 2014, several pleas challenging the same were filed in the HC, but they were either withdrawn or dismissed. "The SC too had upheld the dismissal of several such pleas challenging Shah's discharge, and therefore there was no need for the Bombay HC to entertain the above PILs," Singh argued. He informed the bench that Shah's discharge was first challenged in Bombay HC through a revision application filed by Sohrabuddin Sheikh's brother Rubabuddin, which he withdrew on October 5, 2015. A single-judge bench of the Bombay high court had allowed Rubabuddin to withdraw the application on November 23, 2015, after it was convinced that he was doing so voluntarily. Soon after, one Rajesh Kamble filed a revision application against the discharge granted to Shah, in his capacity of being an "alert citizen". The HC, however, dismissed his plea on October 21, 2015 questioning his locus standi (his right, or the capacity in which he could have filed the plea) in the case. A writ petition was then filed by social activist Harsh Mander in the HC challenging the discharge and questioning withdrawal of the application by Rubabuddin. That plea too was dismissed by the HC and the dismissal was upheld by the Supreme Court in August 2017. Sohrabuddin Sheikh and Kausar Bi were killed in an alleged fake encounter in 2005 by the Gujarat police. Prajapati was killed in another such encounter in 2006 by the Gujarat and Rajasthan police. Of the 38 people charged by the CBI in the case, 16, including Shah and all senior officers of Gujarat and Rajasthan police, have been discharged in the case by the trial court and the Bombay HC. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A delegation from Gujarat has ended a series of meetings in three cities in South Africa, buoyant about increased participation by trade and business from the country at the Vibrant Gujarat 2019 Global Summit in January. "We are hoping that South Africa will be at number two on the list of partner countries at the summit," delegation leader Jagdish Prasad Gupta, Principal Secretary in the Gujarat government told delegates at a summit at the Sandton Convention Centre here at the end of the tour last week. The delegation, which included executives for top Indian companies like Tata, Reliance Industries, KPMG and CII, also visited Durban and Cape Town. "This event is not just about India or Gujarat state, but rather a win-win situation for us and you. At the last event, more than 100 countries participated, more than 25,000 delegates from 116 countries visited, including two Heads of State from Africa; and there were more than 20 ministerial delegations. So, it's a summit with great opportunities if you want to export, invest or explore," Gupta said. He said the summit was also a forum for generating innovative ideas. "At the last event in 2017, seven Nobel laureates proposed new and thought-provoking ideas which can change the world," he said. Commenting on a Memorandum of Understanding signed between Invest India and the South African Investment Agency, Gupta said there was lots of complementarity between South Africa and Gujarat for business and investment. Adding to this, Muzi Mathema, group executive in the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, said that his province accounted for two-thirds of South Africa's trade with India, mostly in manufactured goods, some textiles and jewellery from India, with a lot of gold going into India. But Mathema also expressed some disappointment at the lack of exploiting the tremendous growth potential that existed. "The basis for that is that India is the seventh largest economy in the world and we are the largest South African provincial economy as the economic hub of the country, so there is scope for a lot more. We also have a very strong post-colonial relationship through our BRICS interaction, so there is scope to improve that level of trade in areas such agro processing and vehicle components" he said. "Apart from goods and services, there is also a lot of scope in skills transfer and technology transfer that can happen between our two countries," he said. Mathema said his organisation would support the organisers as they explored the idea of making South Africa a partner state instead of a visiting state. "We will play our role, as we always do as a development agency, to ensure that Gauteng and the country at large support this. We already have an MoU with Invest India and so there is already a lot of momentum in improving trade and investment between our two countries," he said. After presentations by sector representatives from India, Consul General for India in Johannesburg K J Srinivasa called on delegates to take advantage of the opportunities offered by Gujarat, which he said was firmly committed to India's national economic growth with its state-of-the art infrastructure and ease of doing business. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Spain's Supreme Court on Wednesday confirmed former IMF chief Rodrigo Rato's jail sentence of four years and six months for misusing funds, which is expected to see him enter prison soon. In February 2017, Rato was found guilty by another court of paying for personal expenses with credit cards put at his disposal when he was the boss of Caja Madrid and Bankia, but had since then been free on bail pending an appeal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan said Wednesday the central plank of his government's policy was to put in place a mechanism which ensures speedy dispensation of justice to people. Prime Minister Khan made the remarks while chairing a briefing on Ministry of Law & Justice, according to an official statement. "The government is committed to put in place a mechanism that facilitates the citizens as well as the judiciary in speedy dispensation of justice," he said. Minister for Law Muhammad Farogh Naseem made a detailed presentation on the civil litigation reforms, identifying various procedural and legal lacunas in the existing justice system which caused inordinate delay in dispensation of justice to the people. He also identified various steps, including the need for establishment of an Evidence Commission, streamlining the Alternate Dispute Resolution and Arbitration system through legal framework and various amendments that need to be undertaken in various laws to ensure that the laws and legal procedures are not misused to obstruct justice. The Law Minister also briefed Prime Minister Khan about criminal laws and highlighted the need for employment of technological solution for better investigation and prosecution in criminal cases. Naseem assured the Prime Minister that a comprehensive reform package carrying the future Plan of Action with delineated timelines would be finalised within the first 100 days of the present government as per the promise made by the Prime Minister to the nation. Besides, Naseem, Finance Minister Asad Umar, Advisor to Prime Minister Shehzad Arbab, Attorney General of Pakistan Anwar Mansoor, Parliamentary Secretary Maleeka Ali Bokhari, Secretary Law and senior officials were also present during the briefing. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two youths allegedly eve-teased students who were returning from school and also thrashed two people who objected to their behaviour, police said Wednesday. The incident occurred near Fakhershah Chowk in Kotwali Polcie Station area here Tuesday. A student of Class 12 of returning from school accompanied by two of her friends when the bike-borne accused started harassing them. When two people near them opposed their behaviour, the youths thrashed them, they said. They also slapped the girl, they added. The police registered a case and launched an investigation in the incident. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Centre on Wednesday urged the Odisha government to cooperate with it in the establishment of the proposed Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) facility at Chandikhol. The Centre's move was apprised to the state government when Sanjay Sudhi, the joint secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, met Odisha Chief Secretary A P Padhi here at the state secretariat. Since the facility will be the an underground strategic oil reserve for eastern India and generate employment for 4,000 people during the construction phase, the state government should cooperate in establishing the project, Sudhir told reporters. He said the Odisha government has assured the central government of support in setting up the SPR. Sudhir said the proposed SPR in Jajpur district with 4 million metric ton capacity will be built over 400 acre of land, at an investment of Rs 6,500 crore. The project would also include a pipeline from Chandikhole to Paradip. The oil ministry official said that experts from both the Centre and the state government will soon meet to discuss the modalities of implementation of the project. The Union Cabinet had approved establishment of additional 6.5 million metric ton SPR facilities at two locations in Odisha and Karnataka. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US President Donald Trump has said that his policy of imposing hefty tariffs on additional USD 250 billion worth of imports from China has hurt Beijing "very badly" and the Communist nation is eager to talk and make a deal. Trump on Monday threatened to impose new tariffs on additional USD 267 billion worth of imports from China and asserted that there will be no deal with Beijing unless it changes its unfair trade practices. "China's been hurt very badly over the last number of months. Their markets are down 30 per cent. And our markets are up 55 per cent since I became president," Trump told his cheering supporters in Mississippi on Tuesday. "I hope we can make a deal with China, but honestly, who knows? But we're very happy where we are. Very, very happy," he said. The US does not seem to be in a hurry to have a trade deal with China, he indicated, adding that the European Union was eager to enter into a trade deal with the US. Trump said China had been draining the US. "They're taking our money. They're rebuilding themselves. They're building a jet a day. They're building many, many bridges the size and bigger than, like, the George Washington Bridge," he said. "What are we doing? We're bigger than the George Washington Bridge. We're helping them. We've rebuilt China. They've taken so much money. I like President Xi, the head of China, but I said, 'We can't do this anymore'. So now we put USD 50 billion of tariffs on," Trump said. He said China wanted to talk to the US, but he was not ready yet. "If you do that, we're going to put an additional USD 267 billion onto your numbers. So we're going to have USD 500 billion and probably it'll end up USD 562 billion when you add it all up, including the little stars all over the place. And you know what? They want to talk. They want to make a deal," Trump said. "We're already USD 500 billion behind. So if I go USD 50 billion, you (China) go USD 50 billion, that means we're at the same place we started from. That's not what this is all about. We have to bring some balance. We can't do this," said the US President. "So they said, "No". So it's USD 50 billion at 10 per cent. I increased it to 25 per cent, and I put USD 200 billion on top of the USD 50 billion. So now we have USD 250 billion at 25 per cent. By the way, billions and billions of dollars. The fake people back there, all those people with all those red lights...," he said amidst booing from the audience. The trade spat between the top two economies of the world began in April with Trump imposing tariffs on steel and aluminum imports into US. China retaliated by imposing additional tariffs worth about USD three billion on 128 US products. Trump, while demanding China to reduce the USD 375 billion by USD 100 billion retaliated with USD 50 billion tariffs on Chinese products. In retaliation, China announced plans to impose new tariffs of 25 per cent worth USD 50 billion on 106 American products including items like soybeans which could hurt American farmers. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The consortium of Tata Group firm TRIL Urban Transport and Siemens Financial Services arm Siemens Project Ventures GmbH has bagged a contract to develop a Metro Line in Pune. "The consortium...has been awarded the contract by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority to develop the Metro corridor from Hinjewadi to Shivajinagar," a press statement said Wednesday. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis handed over the Letter of Award to the consortium. "The elevated metro line will originate from Hinjewadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, travel via Balewadi to Shivajinagar," it said. Hinjewadi is Pune's fastest growing IT industrial hub providing employment to over 4,00,000 people. The 23.3-km corridor with 23 stations will be the first metro project in India on public-private-partnership (PPP) model after the New Metro Rail Policy of 2017. The construction is scheduled to commence by June next year and will be completed within a time span of three years. Tata Projects will be the EPC partner supporting the consortium. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two days after Tata Sky removed 32 channels of Sony Pictures Networks India (SPN) and three of TV Today Network on pricing issues, the direct-to-home (DTH) operator and the broadcaster have said they are open to negotiations to offer customers the channels. SPN's three-year contract with Tata Sky had expired on July 31, and the two since then have been negotiating on a new pricing deal. SPN president - distribution Rajesh Kaul said after the contract got over on July 31, Tata Sky had asked for an extension, so that the negotiations on the deal could come through. However, he claimed that Tata Sky has gone ahead and switched off SPN's 22 channels unilaterally, without even discussing with the company. "In that sense, talks have failed, that is why they have switched off (our channels)," Kaul told PTI. "We are completely open to that (negotiations). This is our business so we are open to any kind of dialogue, any kind of discussion which can lead to a settlement," he added. Tata Sky chief executive officer and managing director Harit Nagpal also told PTI, "We hope to positively close negotiations and get all our subscribers their desired channels as soon as possible." "The commercial negotiations with the broadcasters broke down as what they were seeking would have forced us to hike our prices," said Nagpal. However, Kaul said, the biggest bone of contention is that in the last two to three years, Tata Sky has increased its subscriber base from 10 million to 16 million today and SPN has increased its bouquet of channels from 14 to 32. "We are asking for an increase because of these two factors," he added. The DTH players or multi-system operators pay the broadcasters on the number of subscribers they have and as per regulator Trai, the broadcasters cannot increase their rates. Nagpal said despite Sony losing marquee properties like the IPL and Kapil Sharma show, it was expecting a much higher increase compared to what Tata Sky was willing to offer, in line with the channels' viewership ratings. "About three weeks ago, during the negotiations, Sony published a disconnection notice applicable from September 30 midnight," he said. According to Kaul, the notice was published in accordance with Trai guidelines. He further said that the current impasse is likely to have an impact on the company's viewership and revenues. Tata Sky said it has retained the channels with good viewership numbers, at a la carte rates and are paying a huge premium (almost three times) to Sony as per their rate card versus contracted rates, in the interest of its subscribers. The DTH player has retained 10 channels including Set, Sony Sab, Set HD, and Aaj Tak. Kaul, however, claimed that Tata Sky had signed a RIO (reference inter-connect offer) for the 10 channels and it could have done the same for the other 22 channels as well. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Innovative technologies developed by Indian scientists to tackle pollution will be showcased at the Asia Ministerial meet in Singapore and the UN Assembly in Nairobi, Union Minister Harsh Vardhan said on Wednesday. The minister held a meeting with Head of UN Erik Solheim here and appraised him of development of technologies by Indian scientists to address environmental degradation, including bio-diesel from plastic waste among others. On a day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was presented the UN's Champions of the Earth Award by United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres, the minister said that as Gujarat Chief Minister, Modi had brought global warming and climate change to the centre stage of national politics and he deserved the award. "India would showcase innovative technologies developed by our scientists to address pollution at Asia Ministerial in Singapore in Jan & 4th #EnvironmentAssembly in Nairobi in March2019. @ErikSolheim promised to promote #GreenGoodDeeds from @UNEnvironment platform as well," the minister tweeted. Earlier this year, Harsh Vardhan had launched the nationwide social movement 'Green Good Deeds' to protect the environment and promote healthy living. The environment minister had drawn up a list of over 500 green good deeds and asked people to alter their behaviour to green good behaviour to fulfil their green social responsibility. "Had a bilateral meeting with @UNEnvironment chief @ErikSolheim & discussed the way forward on various env. issues. Told him, our scientists have developed several technologies to address env. degradation, like biodiesel from plastic waste, biofuel from sewage," he tweeted. Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron were jointly awarded the UN's highest environmental honour for their pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and promoting new areas of cooperation on environmental action, according to a statement from the United Nations Environment Programme. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday turned to pop group ABBA's hit 'Dancing Queen' to deliver an upbeat Brexit message at the close of the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham. After an awkward dance episode during her visit to Kenya in August had made the wrong kind of headlines, May decided to dance up to the podium to the beats of one of the Swedish band's most enduring songs in an attempt to set a lighter tone to her much-anticipated speech. The Conservative party chief called for unity to deliver a Brexit that was in the "national interest", amid deepening divisions within the ruling party over the UK's exit strategy from the European Union (EU). "We have had disagreements in this party about Britain's membership of the EU for a long time. So, it is no surprise that we have had a range of different views expressed this week. But my job as Prime Minister is to do what I believe to be in the national interest," she said. Dismissing calls for a so-called "people's vote", the British PM said any second referendum over the issue of Brexit would be a "politicians' vote" as the people had already given their verdict in the 2016 referendum. "Those of us who do respect the result, whichever side of the question we stood on two years ago, need to come together now. If we don't, if we all go off in different directions in pursuit of our own visions of the perfect Brexit, we risk ending up with no Brexit at all," she said. Making light of her speech troubles at last year's conference, when a coughing fit had cast a shadow over all her major policy announcements, May sought to deliver a message of confidence amid ongoing speculation over her ability to lead the Conservative Party in the face of a brewing Brexit rebellion. "Leadership is doing what you believe to be right and having the courage and determination to see it through. That is the approach I have taken on Brexit," she said. On the domestic front, the British PM set an agenda that moved away from austerity and cuts to public services and announced new borrowing powers for local councils to build more homes. Other promises included a "step change" in how cancer is diagnosed with a strategy aimed at increasing early detection rates, plus another freeze on fuel duty. The Tory party conference has been dominated by Brexit, with former foreign secretary Boris Johnson launching a fresh attack against the Prime Minister's so-called Chequers plan for post-Brexit trade with the EU, named after the British PM's country residence where it was agreed in July. In a fiery speech at the conference on Tuesday, the former Cabinet minister who had resigned over May's Brexit strategy said "Chequers is a cheat," which would escalate the sense of mistrust people have about politicians. "If we get it wrong if we bottle Brexit now believe me, the people of this country will find it hard to forgive," said Johnson, seen a lead contender vying to replace Theresa May as PM. "This is not democracy. This is not what we voted for. This is an outrage. This is not taking back control: this is forfeiting control," he said. Just before May's own speech on Wednesday, Conservative party MP James Duddridge, a key Johnson ally, announced that he had submitted a letter to the party's backbench 1922 Committee calling for a party leadership contest. An undeterred May called on her colleagues to work towards making the Conservatives a party "not for the few, not even for the many but for everyone who is willing to work hard and do their best". "Our best days lie ahead of us. Don't let anyone tell you we don't have what it takes," she said. May also launched stinging attacks on the Opposition Labour Party, which she dubbed the "Jeremy Corbyn party", as she issued a strong call for Conservative unity on the final day of her party's conference in Birmingham. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A woman assistant professor arrested for allegedly trying to sexually exploit girl students was denied bail Wednesday by the Madras High Court. A Madurai bench of the high court denied bail to assistant professor Nirmala Devi and her co-accused Professor Murugan of Madurai Kamaraj University. The two were arrested along with Karuppasamy, a research student, in April. The trio is presently lodged in Madurai central Jail here. Rejecting the bail applications, the judge Justice Ilanthirayan asked the trial court to complete the trial proceedings at the earliest by conducting it on daily basis. The Crime Branch-CID had earlier informed the court that Nirmala Devi, conspired with Murugan and Karuppusamy to deceive and seduce girl students for sexual exploitation. The court had earlier directed the CB-CID to complete the investigation in six months and file charge sheet. The deadline for filing the charge sheet ended in September and the bail applications were moved against this background. Nirmala Devi, assistant professor of Devanga Arts College at Aruppukottai, has been charged with seeking sexual favours from some girls students for higher officials of Madurai Kamaraj University in return for marks and money She was arrested on April 16 after an audio clip in which she purportedly told some girl students "to adjust with some officials" for higher marks and money, went viral on the social media. She was suspended after the scandal came to light. She, however, had denied any sexual angle to her advice and claimed she had made it "in the right spirit" and not with any hidden agenda or motive. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tamil Nadu and Puducherry is likely to receive widespread, moderate rain with some isolated incidents of heavy downpour in the next three days, Deputy Director General of Meteorology S Balachandran said Wednesday. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea between October 6 and 8 over the South Kerala coast, Lakshadweep area, Comorin area, Southeast Arabian sea and Central Arabian sea, he told reporters here. "Formation of a low pressure area over southeast Arabian sea on October 5 and its transformation into a cyclonic storm while moving towards northwestward direction on October 6 and 7 is also likely to happen," he said. "Till October 5, there would be widespread, moderate rainfall in TN and Pondicherry and heavy rainfall in some isolated places," he said. The official said those who are in deep sea have been advised to return to the coast by October 5. Forecasting a favourable northeast monsoon, the official had earlier said the state is likely receive rainfall 12 per cent higher than the normal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US President Donald Trump publicly mocked Christine Blasey Ford, the professor who has alleged that she was sexually assaulted by his Supreme Court nominee Justice Brett Kavanaugh some 36 years ago. Impersonating Ford, who testified before a Senate Judiciary Committee last week with her allegations, Trump on Tuesday said that the woman accuser only remembered that she had one beer and nothing else. Trump, in his address to his supporters in Mississippi raised doubts over the allegations of Ford, as a result of which the lives of Kavanaugh is in tatters, he said. "36 years ago, this happened," said the president as he was referring to the alleged party in a house in Maryland where Ford alleges she was sexually assaulted by Kavanaugh. Thereafter Trump imitated Ford's question and answer session at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing last week. "How did you get home? I don't remember. How'd you get there? I don't remember. Where is the place? I don't remember. How many years ago was it? I don't know," Trump said mocking Ford. "What neighbourhood was it in? I don't know. Where's the house?' I don't know. Upstairs, downstairs, where was it?' I don't know, but I had one beer. That's the only thing I remember," Trump said amid cheering and laughter from his supporters The allegations, he said, had a great impact on Judge Kavanaugh. "A man's life is in tatters. His wife is shattered," he said and alleged that the Democrats are behind this. "They destroy people. They want to destroy people. These are really evil people," Trump said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Wednesday paid obeisance at the Golden Temple in Amritsar and was honoured with a siropa by the Sikh priest. A siropa is placed around the neck but is intended to be worn on the head as a dastaar (turban). During his visit to the Golden Temple, Guterres was accompanied by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. He also visited the community kitchen at the Golden Temple, where he keenly watched the cooking process and participated in 'langar'. "I paid tribute to the Sikh community worldwide and I express my deep respect for this holy place where all religions are accepted in a wonderful," he wrote in the visitor book of Golden Temple. After reaching the shrine, he was received by Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee president Gobind Singh Longowal and SGPC chief secretary Roop Singh. Guterres had reached the Shri Guru Ramdas International Airport near Amritsar from Delhi in a special aircraft of the Indian Air Force. He was received at the airport by Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal and Punjab government Chief Secretary Karan Avtar Singh. At the Golden Temple, he was also honoured with a woollen shawl, replica of Golden Temple and set of Sikh religious books by SGPC president Longowal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The United States said Wednesday it was terminating a 1955 treaty reached with then ally Iran after Tehran cited it in an international court ruling against Washington's sanctions policy. "I'm announcing that the US is terminating the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters, referring to the date of the 1979 Islamic revolution. The UN's top court ordered the United States Wednesday to lift sanctions on humanitarian goods for Iran in a ruling widely seen as a rebuke to President Donald Trump -- but which Pompeo described as a "defeat for Iran. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US has decided to withdraw from the optional protocol on disputes of the Vienna Convention, National Security Adviser John Bolton said Wednesday, citing a Palestinian lawsuit challenging America's move to shift its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem as the reason. The announcement by the White House came soon after Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced to terminate the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. Iran made a mockery of the treaty with its support for terrorism, provocative ballistic missile proliferation and malign behaviour throughout the Middle East, Bolton told reporters at a White House conference. "In addition to the Treaty of Amity, I am announcing that the president has decided that the United States will withdraw from the Optional Protocol and Dispute Resolution to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations," Bolton said. "This is in connection with a case brought by the so-called state of Palestine naming the United States as a defendant, challenging our move of our embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem," he said. Bolton, simultaneously underscored that the US remained a party to the underlying Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, and it expects all other parties to abide by their international obligations under the convention. The top Trump administration official insisted that the two actions were consistent with the decisions former US President Ronald Reagan made in the 1980s in the wake of the politicised suits against the US by Nicaragua to terminate its acceptance of the Optional Compulsory Jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice under Article 36-2 of the ICJ statute, and his decision to withdraw from a bilateral treaty with Nicaragua. "It is also consistent with the decision President Bush made in 2005 to withdraw from the Optional Protocol to the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations following the ICJ's interference in our domestic criminal justice system," he said. Bolton also said the administration was reviewing all international agreements that could expose it to binding decisions by the International Court of Justice saying it was politicised and ineffective. The US in May opened its embassy in Jerusalem under a controversial move by President Donald Trump, amid a bloodbath right on the border with Gaza where Israeli soldiers shot dead at least 52 Palestinians in clashes, in the deadliest escalation of violence since 2014. President Donald Trump announced the decision to move the embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in December, when he formally recognised the holy city as the capital of Israel, breaking away from decades of US neutrality on the sensitive issue. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A deadly combination of Canine Distemper Virus and Protozoal infection is responsible for death of at least 11 of 23 lions in Gujarat's Gir forest since September 12, the state government said Wednesday. The condition of three of over 36 lions currently under observation of Forest department is critical, officials said. Interestingly, Forest department has been maintaining that injuries caused by infighting is the cause behind the deaths of big cats in their only abode in Asia. As a precautionary measure, 300 shots of vaccine are imported from the US to protect the lions of Gir, they said. State Forest and Minister Ganpat Vasava told reporters that Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) was found in the samples of four of the eleven dead lions by Pune-based National Institute of Virology, and Protozoa in the rest seven. Canine distemper is a contagious viral disease that affects a wide variety of animal species, including dogs, coyotes, foxes, pandas and wolves. It attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of animals. In the past, CDV had wiped out 30 per cent of total population of lions in Serengeti forest areas in East Africa. "Samples of four dead lions examined by a Pune-based laboratory (National Institute of Virology) contained Canine Distemper Virus," Vasava told reporters. Additional Chief Secretary, state forest department, Rajiv Kumar Gupta said CDV didn't cause deaths but it affects immunity of infected lions. "Lions with CDV can be infected by Protozoa infection which is spread by ticks. Presence of both of these causes death. We have found CDV in four and Protozoa in seven out of eleven dead lions," Gupta said. He said the government has taken a serious note of the presence of CDV though its spread is restricted to four lions so far. "We have urgently imported 300 (shots of) a vaccine from Atlanta, which we will administer to 36 lions, if needed, who are under observation," he said. Gupta said Forest personnel will collect random samples of blood and swabs of lions from other ranges of the Gir forest, as a measure to ascertain their health status. "In the next seven days, we will vaccinate all the cattle present in surrounding areas of the Gir forest," he said. "We have also sought national and international help to fight the menace on directions of chief minister (Vijay Rupani). We are also seeking the help of experts of Royal Veterinary Society of London," he said. The Forest department had launched a screening operation in Dalkhaniya range of Gir sanctuary to identify sick lions following the death of 11 big cats between September 12 and 19. A total of 12 sick lions, which were caught and shifted to a rescue centre, have died since then, taking the toll to 23. According to a 2015 census, Gir is home to 523 lions, including 109 male, 201 female, 73 sub-adults and 140 cubs. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US retail giant has submitted to Income Tax authorities its rationale for deducting tax on payments made to some Flipkart shareholders and not to others, a senior official said Wednesday. Income Tax authorities, which had previously asked to explain the logic behind its tax deductions on the $ 16 billion Flipkart deal, have the option to seek more clarifications from the US retailer once they study the reply. on September 7 paid Rs 74.39 billion tax on payments it made to buy out shares of 10 major shareholders of Flipkart but had not done so for another 34 who exited the Indian e-commerce company in the $ 16 billion deal. As many as 44 shareholders of Flipkart, including significant ones like SoftBank, Naspers, venture fund Accel Partners and eBay, sold their holdings to Walmart. Individual shareholdings in Flipkart and those who offloaded the stake have not been publicly declared either by the seller or the buyer. After Walmart deposited Rs 74.39 billion tax, the tax department asked Walmart to explain the rationale followed while deducting or not deducting taxes from Flipkart shareholders. Walmart has now replied to I-T authorities reasoning out the basis of tax deduction, the official told PTI here. "We are studying their response." The I-T department may reach out to the shareholder directly or may write to Walmart once again if it is unsatisfied with the response. "The next course of action would depend on case to case basis," the official added. Withholding tax, or retention tax, is an income tax to be paid to the government by the payer of the income rather than by the recipient of the income. The tax is withheld or deducted from the income due to the recipient. In case of Walmart-Flipkart deal, the withholding tax pertains to the capital gains made by the shareholders of Flipkart. Nangia Advisors LLP Managing Partner Rakesh Nangia said Section 133C of the I-T Act empowers tax authorities to issue notice to any person to furnish information or documents for verification of the information already in its possession. "Hence based on the information available with the tax authorities about the shareholders of Flipkart, a notice can be issued to them for verification of such information," Nangia said. Further, section 131(1A), where the tax authorities suspect that the shareholders are liable to Capital Gain tax in India, they may issue a notice to such shareholders, Nangia added. Flipkart shareholders can broadly be divided into three categories -- foreign investors whose holding is more than 5 per cent, foreign investors whose holding is less than 5 per cent and Indian residents. Walmart is legally not required to withhold tax on payments made to foreign shareholders with a stake of less than 5 per cent and no right to management, experts said. Certain shareholders of Flipkart had in August approached the tax department seeking exemption from levy of the taxes, the application is still being studied by the I-T department. The Income Tax law provides for a buyer to seek withholding tax certificate from authorities after providing details of the transaction and make a case for availing lower or nil tax rates. The tax rate could be lower in case the non-resident seller invokes the provision of the double tax avoidance agreement. Walmart Inc on September 7 said it has complied with the tax obligations of its $ 16 billion acquisition of India's largest online retailer Flipkart but did not say the quantum of taxes it paid. Walmart Inc completed the acquisition of 77 per cent stake in Flipkart for about $ 16 billion in mid-August. As per the provisions of the I-T law, Walmart had to deduct withholding tax on payments made to sellers and deposit it with the Indian authorities on the seventh day of the subsequent month, which in this case was September 7. As per domestic tax law, long-term capital gains tax is levied at 20 per cent for shares sold by foreign investors after 24 months of purchase. However, the I-T law also provides for a taxpayer to pay taxes at a lower or nil rate if he is eligible to claim the benefits under the double taxation avoidance agreement between India and the country from where the investment was routed. The I-T department has been reviewing Section 9 (1) of the I-T Act, which deals with indirect transfer provisions, to see if the benefits under the bilateral tax treaties with countries like Singapore and Mauritius, could be available for foreign investors selling stakes to Walmart. Singapore-registered Flipkart Pvt Ltd holds a majority stake in Flipkart India. US retail giant Walmart has submitted to Income Tax authorities its rationale for deducting tax on payments made to some Flipkart shareholders, a senior official said Wednesday. Income Tax authorities, which had previously asked Walmart to explain the logic behind its tax deductions on the USD 16 billion Flipkart deal, have the option to seek more clarifications from the US retailer once they study the reply. On September 7, Walmart paid Rs 7,439 crore tax on payments it made to buy out shares of 10 major shareholders of Flipkart but had not done so for another 34 who exited the Indian e-commerce company in the USD 16 billion deal. As many as 44 shareholders of Flipkart, including significant ones like SoftBank, Naspers, venture fund Accel Partners and eBay, sold their holdings to Walmart. Individual shareholdings in Flipkart and those who offloaded the stake have not been publicly declared either by the seller or the buyer. After Walmart deposited Rs 7,439 crore tax, the tax department asked Walmart to explain the rationale followed while deducting or not deducting taxes from Flipkart shareholders. Walmart has now replied to I-T authorities reasoning out the basis of tax deduction, the official told PTI here. "We are studying their response." The I-T department may reach out to the shareholders directly or may write to Walmart once again if it is unsatisfied with the response. "The next course of action would be on a case to case basis," the official added. Withholding tax or retention tax is an income tax to be paid to the government by the payer rather than by the recipient of the income. The tax is withheld or deducted from the income due to the recipient. In case of Walmart-Flipkart deal, the withholding tax pertains to the capital gains made by the shareholders of Flipkart. "We take our legal obligations seriously, including paying taxes to governments where we operate. As we said before, following our Flipkart investment, we completed our tax withholding obligations under the guidance of the Indian Tax authorities. In future also, we will continue to work with authorities to respond to their queries, if any," a Walmart spokesperson said. Nangia Advisors LLP Managing Partner Rakesh Nangia said Section 133C of the I-T Act empowers tax authorities to issue notice to any person to furnish information or documents for verification of the information already in its possession. "Hence based on the information available with the tax authorities about the shareholders of Flipkart, a notice can be issued to them for verification of such information," Nangia said. Further, under section 131(1A), where the tax authorities suspect that the shareholders are liable for capital gain tax in India, they may issue a notice to such shareholders, Nangia added. Flipkart shareholders can broadly be divided into three categories -- foreign investors whose holding is more than 5 per cent, foreign investors whose holding is less than 5 per cent and Indian residents. Walmart is legally not required to withhold tax on payments made to foreign shareholders with a stake of less than 5 per cent and no right to management, experts said. In August, certain shareholders of Flipkart approached the tax department seeking exemption from levy of the taxes and the application is still being studied by the I-T department. The Income Tax law provides for a buyer to seek withholding tax certificate from authorities after providing details of the transaction and make a case for availing lower or nil tax rates. The tax rate could be lower in case the non-resident seller invokes the provision of the double tax avoidance agreement. On September 7, Walmart Inc said it has complied with the tax obligations related to its USD 16 billion acquisition of India's largest online retailer Flipkart but did not mention about the quantum of taxes it paid. Walmart Inc completed the acquisition of 77 per cent stake in Flipkart for about USD 16 billion in mid-August. As per the provisions of the I-T law, Walmart had to deduct withholding tax on payments made to sellers and deposit it with the Indian authorities on the seventh day of the subsequent month, which in this case was September 7. As per domestic tax law, long-term capital gains tax is levied at 20 per cent for shares sold by foreign investors after 24 months of purchase. However, the I-T law also provides for a taxpayer to pay taxes at a lower or nil rate if he is eligible to claim the benefits under the double taxation avoidance agreement between India and the country from where the investment was routed. The I-T department has been reviewing Section 9 (1) of the I-T Act, which deals with indirect transfer provisions, to see if the benefits under the bilateral tax treaties with countries like Singapore and Mauritius, could be available for foreign investors selling stakes to Walmart. Singapore-registered Flipkart Pvt Ltd holds a majority stake in Flipkart India. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The wife of former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak was arrested Wednesday by the anti-graft agency and is expected to be charged in a scandal involving the 1MDB state investment fund, a government official said. The official, who declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter, said Rosmah Mansor was arrested after she was questioned by the agency for a third time over alleged theft and money laundering at the fund. Rosmah's lawyer, K. Kumaraendran, confirmed her arrest but declined to give details. The agency was expected to issue a statement soon. Wearing a bright green traditional dress, Rosmah smiled at reporters but didn't speak as she arrived at the agency's building. She was first summoned by the agency on June 5 and again on Sept. 26, when she was questioned for nearly 13 hours. Local media have reported that she could face up to 20 charges, mostly related to money laundering. Former Prime Minister Najib has pleaded not guilty to multiple counts of money laundering, corruption, abuse of power and criminal breach of trust in the scandal and is to face trial next year. Earlier Wednesday, Najib was questioned by the police commercial crime office over the 1MDB scandal. He dodged reporters waiting for him outside the building. Rosmah, 66, is widely reviled for her opulent lifestyle and penchant for expensive jewelry and designer Birkin bags that led to her being compared with former Philippine first lady Imelda Marcos and her extravagant collection of shoes. Police found hundreds of luxury handbags, jewelry and cash worth more than $266 million during raids on apartments linked to the family shortly after Najib's shocking electoral defeat in May. Seized were 567 handbags, 423 watches and 12,000 pieces of jewelry, including 1,400 necklaces, 2,200 rings, 2,800 pairs of earrings and 14 tiaras. Najib has said the items were mostly gifts to his family. In a biography in 2013, Rosmah said it was common for a prime minister's wife to receive expensive jewelry and gifts. She also said she had earned millions of ringgit from her own music album, which wasn't released to the public but was bought by government ministers who were fans of her singing talent. Najib set up the 1MDB fund when he took power in 2009, but it accumulated billions in debts and is being investigated in the U.S. and several other countries. U.S. investigators say Najib's associates stole and laundered $4.5 billion from the fund from 2009 to 2014, some of which landed in Najib's bank account. They say $27.3 million was used to buy a rare diamond necklace for Rosmah. Public anger over the scandal eventually led to the ouster of Najib's long-ruling coalition in May 9 elections that ushered in the first change of power since Malaysia's independence from Britain in 1957. New Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad reopened investigations into 1MDB that were suppressed under Najib's rule. He has also banned the couple from leaving the country. Police have said investigations show that $972 million was transferred into Najib's bank accounts from three companies linked to 1MDB. Najib, 65, has accused Mahathir's government of seeking political vengeance against him and his family. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi government on Wednesday told the Supreme Court that it would release Rs 500 crore within two days to civic bodies, which will help resolve the crisis that has arisen due to the ongoing strike by sanitation workers of East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC) over regular payment of salaries and regularisation of workers. A bench comprising Justices Madan B Lokur, S Abdul Nazeer and Deepak Gupta asked Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Maninder Singh, appearing for the Centre and Delhi Lieutenant Governor, as to whether they could also release similar amount to "tide over the present crisis". The bench made it clear that the offer by the Delhi government to release the amount, and if the Central government or the Delhi Lieutenant Governor also make a similar offer, would be without any prejudice to the rights and contentions of either of the parties. "It is common knowledge that sanitation workers are abstaining from work in East Delhi. As a result of this, there is a huge amount of garbage that has piled up. There are, of course, differences on how the issue is to be tackled. The Lieutenant Governor has one point of view but the Delhi Government has a different point of view," the bench said. During the hearing, the bench told advocate Rahul Mehra, appearing for Delhi government, to take instructions in the matter as to whether they could release some amount to resolve the issue. After taking instructions, Mehra told the bench that they would release Rs 500 crore without prejudice to their rights and contentions in the matters relating to any disputes and differences between them and the Centre or the Lieutenant Governor. The lawyers appearing for the South Delhi Municipal Corporation and North Delhi Municipal Corporation told the bench that they should also get money which was to be released by Delhi government. "The proportion in which the amount is to be released and to whom it is to be released will be decided by the Delhi Government. It is made clear that this offer has been made without prejudice to the rights and contentions of the Delhi Government," the bench noted in its order. During the hearing, Mehra told the bench that in 2016-17, Delhi government had given over Rs 1.08 lakh crore to the Centre while the Central government had given only Rs 325 crore to them. The ASG told the court that Delhi High Court had already passed directions in the matter related to payment of salaries of sanitation workers of the civic bodies but the Delhi government had not complied with it. He said that Delhi government had come to the apex court against the high court's directions but no stay was granted by the top court. "He (Mehra) is suggesting and it is only a request that the Centre or Lieutenant Governor can also consider releasing Rs 500 crore so that at least the present crisis is over. The legal battle will take time. It is only a suggestion," the bench told the ASG. The ASG said that he would raise this issue before the concerned authorities and get back to the court on this. The bench has posted the matter for hearing on October 8. The ASG told the bench that a Constitution bench of the apex court has already held that Delhi is a union territory and not a state and the other issues were being dealt with by another bench of the top court. At the fag end of hearing, the counsel appearing for East Delhi Municipal Corporation told the bench that some direction should be given to the sanitation workers who are on strike since September 12. "Delhi government has volunteered to give Rs 500 crore. How much is to be given to EDMC, SDMC or North DMC, they will decide it," the bench said, adding that the issue of strike was to be dealt with by the Delhi government, the Centre or the Lieutenant Governor. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Saudi Kingdom will collapse in two weeks in absence of American protection, US President Donald Trump has said, pressuring one of its closest allies over rising oil prices that are putting huge drain on economies like India. Trump's reference to Saudi Arabia, which has the potential to strain the bilateral relationship, came in the context of the US providing security protection to rich nations and getting nothing in return. "How about our military deals, where we protect rich nations and we don't get reimbursed? How about that stuff? That's changing, too, folks," he said. "We protect Saudi Arabia. Would you say they're rich? And I love the king, King Salman. But I said, 'King, we're protecting you. You might not be there for two weeks without us. You have to pay for your military," Trump said amidst applause from the audience. "You have to pay," Trump said in an apparent reference to US' friends and allies that they need to reimburse for the security cover America is providing them. This has been a massive drain on American economy, said Trump, without disclosing when did he speak with the Saudi King. As crude oil prices reach a four-year high, Trump repeatedly has demanded OPEC and Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter, push prices down. "Japan is going to also contribute. Japan - we protect Japan. They pay us a small percentage. We protect South Korea. They pay us...and by the way, we're doing great on North Korea, but South Korea. They got to reimburse us," Trump said. On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. "The Secretary thanked the Crown Prince for his continued, strong partnership," State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert said. Pompeo and the Crown Prince discussed a broad range of regional and bilateral issues, including Yemen and countering the Iranian regime's malign activities in the region, she said. The two leaders also discussed areas for expanding US-Saudi collaboration, she added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" star Rachel Brosnahan believes women have always been fighting for equality but the #MeToo movement has given the cause a much needed push. Brosnahan, who won an Emmy Award recently for her portrayal of a 1950s housewife-turned-stand-up-comedienne in the hit Amazon Prime Video series, agrees that the show's launch coincided with the beginning of Harvey Weinstein's downfall but says the conversation is not new. "Truth is, the conversations that we have in the show feel relevant because of this version... This is not the first time that #MeToo has come up, the movement (has always) existed. The conversations and the balance for which women have been fighting forever, weren't new then and they are not new now," Brosnahan said in a group interview at Prime Video Presents 2018 event here. Maisel or Midge as Brosnahan's character is known in the show is a woman striving to be the perfect housewife in the 1950s but things change when she comes to know that her husband has been unfaithful. In a drunken rage, Midge ends up performing a stand-up act at a club that her husband has been trying out as a budding comedian. Her act becomes successful. Brosnahan, whose previous credits include Netflix show "House of Cards", says the writing may be the reason why the story has resonated with so many women. "This is the show that has a woman walking through the world in the 1950s and these are things that she faced and she starts to view them as things that are not acceptable to her anymore... It's a woman writing it who will understand what it is to walk through the world as a woman," she said. The 27-year-old actor believes it is too soon to call the #MeToo movement a success but it is definitely a step in the right direction. "I think there's a lot of change still to come. The conversation has seen a resurgence. I think we're still waiting to see, hopefully, the positive effects it has on the industry, on the country and on the world. But it's too soon to say. People are taking steps in the right direction... We have started to see such a long overdue shift," she said. "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" has been renewed for a third season. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) By Julie Gordon and Jessica JaganathanVANCOUVER/SINGAPORE (Reuters) - The approval on Tuesday of a massive liquefied natural gas export (LNG) terminal in Canada is being touted as the return of the mega-project, ending a lean period where low energy prices and oversupply concerns kept investors from taking big risks.The C$40 billion ($31 billion) LNG Canada project led by Royal Dutch Shell was given the go-ahead by the Anglo-Dutch giant and its partners, making it the fuel's first major new project to win approval in recent years.Construction will start immediately, with first shipments of ... By John MillerZURICH (Reuters) - Swiss drugmaker Roche is breaking into hemophilia A treatment, a $10 billion global market dominated by rivals who have cultivated close ties to sufferers of the genetic bleeding disorder.Roche's Hemlibra, on sale since late 2017 for patients with resistance to existing treatments, is widely expected to win the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's blessing for use in nearly all patients this week. The FDA declined to comment.First-half sales were just 57 million Swiss francs ($58 million).To hit $5 billion global annual sales that some analysts forecast, ... By Nick CareyWARREN, Mich (Reuters) - Honda Motor Co Ltd will invest $2 billion and take a 5.7 percent stake in General Motors Co's Cruise self-driving vehicle unit, to jointly develop self-driving vehicles for deployment in ride services fleets around the world. Honda, which has lagged behind many of its rivals in developing self-driving vehicles, is paying $750 million upfront for the minority stake in Cruise and will invest another $2 billion over 12 years, the companies said on Wednesday.The deal extends cooperation between the two automakers in a technology that has enormous costs ... Honda Motor Co Ltd will invest $2.75 billion and take a 5.7 per cent stake in General Motors Co's Cruise self-driving vehicle unit, to jointly develop autonomous vehicles for deployment in ride services fleets around the world. Honda's partnership comes months after Japan's SoftBank Group made its own multibillion-dollar commitment to Cruise. That puts Cruise in a league with Alphabet Inc's Waymo unit in terms of resources and aggressive plans to launch commercial services. Honda, which has lagged behind many of its rivals in developing self-driving vehicles, is ... NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India is considering special deposit scheme for non-resident Indians to boost dollar inflows, news agency NewsRise reported on Wednesday, citing an unnamed finance ministry official.Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg had said in June if needed the government could raise funds through foreign currency non-repatriable (FCNR) deposits, sovereign bonds or other routes to increase forex reserves.The partially convertible rupee hit 73.4050 per dollar in early trade on Wednesday, an all-time low, and sharply lower than its previous close of 72.91. Indian markets ... (Reuters) - Grocery delivery startup Instacart is on track to surpass $3 billion in grocery orders this year, more than double its business from last year, news website The Information reported on Wednesday.Instacart, which was founded in 2012 by a former Amazon employee, has been growing steadily in the last few years as it partnered with a number of major grocery retailers like Walmart Inc and discount chain Aldi Inc to provide same-day delivery services.The company had hiccups when Whole Foods, its key partner, was acquired by Amazon.com Inc last year following which the online retailer ... By Giuseppe Fonte and Alberto SistoROME (Reuters) - Italy will cut its budget deficit targets from 2020 and reduce its debt over the next three years, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said on Wednesday, easing fears about fiscal policy in the euro zone's third-biggest economy.The ruling coalition last week stunned investors by tripling Italy's previous deficit target for the 2019-21 period to pay for tax cuts, welfare for the poor and a planned revision of an unpopular pension reform.Speaking to reporters after a meeting of ministers, Conte said the government would push ahead with its ... By Jessica Resnick-AultNEW YORK (Reuters) - Oil rose on Wednesday, touching a fresh four-year high as the market focused on upcoming U.S. sanctions on Iran and shrugged off a surprisingly big build in U.S. crude stockpiles and reports of higher Saudi Arabian and Russian production."Nothing matters between here and Nov. 4," said Bob Yawger, director of futures at Mizuho in New York, referring to the date when U.S. sanctions take full effect. "You just had the biggest draw this year, and the market rallied right through it."U.S. crude inventories jumped 8 million barrels last week, quadruple ... By Olesya Astakhova and Dmitry ZhdannikovMOSCOW (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia plans to raise oil production in November from an October output level of 10.7 million barrels per day (bpd) to meet rising crude demand, the energy minister of the world's top exporter said on Wednesday.Khalid al-Falih told a conference in Moscow attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin that the kingdom was in weekly communication with Russia to stabilise global oil markets, which touched a four-year high above $85 a barrel this week.Oil producers have added a total of about 1 million bpd output in "recent weeks and ... By Ayai TomisawaTOKYO (Reuters) - Shares of Japanese industrial equipment makers have slumped sharply this year, defying a rally in the country's benchmark indexes, as investors grow increasingly worried about slowing demand in China as the U.S. piles on more tariffs.The Nikkei share average is at 27-year highs and up 6 percent this year ,while the broader Japanese Topix index is trading at eight-month highs.But shares of Fanuc Corp, a manufacturer of industrial robots counts on China for a big chunk of its sales, have plunged 20 percent so far this year, after gaining 37 percent in ... After Swedish equipment maker Ericsson filed a contempt of court petition in the Supreme Court against RCom Chief Anil Ambani, RCom has called the petition "unwarranted", blaming the Telecom Department for creating hurdles. The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal had granted a "conditional stay" on insolvency proceedings against RCom and its subsidiaries after the company informed it reached at an "amicable settlement" with Ericsson on May 30. After the 120-deadline expired on September 30, RCom said on September 28 it had sought another 60 days for repayment of Rs 550 crore to Ericsson. The matter will be heard on October 4. In its plea, the company cited its spectrum sale to Reliance Jio could not be completed due to factors beyond its "control", blaming the DoT for creating delays. "Ericsson India Private Limited, an unsecured creditor of RCOM, is understood to have filed a Contempt Petition on 1 October 2018 in the Hon'ble Supreme Court in relation to the settlement amount of Rs 550 crore to be paid by RCom. This filing is unwarranted," RCom said in a regulatory filing on Tuesday. RCom said the extension has been sought purely due to the fact that, as approved by 38 secured lenders -- and as per RCOM's undertaking -- Ericsson is to be paid from the sales proceeds of its spectrum sale to Jio. The company said the sale "could not be completed as yet owing to factors beyond the control of RCOM". Explaining further, RCom said it filed an application for approval of the spectrum sale with the DoT on August 7. "However, DoT unjustly sought securitisation of alleged demands (which are wholly disputed) for spectrum usage charges amounting to Rs 2,900 crore. This demand of DoT has been challenged by RCom before the Hon'ble Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal," said the company. A number of hearings have taken place in the matter since August 28, 2018, and the telecom tribunal announced interim relief on October 1, although the copy of the order passed by TDSAT is still awaited and expected shortly, RCom said. "RCOM, as duty bound, shall duly abide by such directions and orders as may be passed by the Hon'ble Supreme Court upon the matter being heard on October 4, 2018," it said. RCom has a total debt of over Rs 46,000 crore. To pare debt, RCom has planned to monetise assets worth Rs 25,000 crore from their sale to Reliance Jio. It had signed a deal to sell its wireless spectrum, tower, fibre and MCN assets to Reliance Jio Infocomm in December 2017. In August, RCom sold optical fibre assets worth Rs 3,000 crore and media convergence nodes (MCNs) and other assets worth Rs 2,000 crore to Jio. Edited by Manoj Sharma Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday received the Champions of the Earth award from UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres in Delhi. The UN chief praised PM Modi, saying, "We are recognising a statesman who embodies true leadership." "In PM Narendra Modi, we have a leader who realises the issue of climate change and understands the benefits of climate action. He knows the problems and also works to solve them," Guterres added. The Award was for PM Modi's extensive efforts to 'Beat Plastic Pollution'- including an ambitious pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in the country by 2022, the UN Environment said. PM Modi was also recognised for his International Solar Alliance initiative, a global partnership that aims to scale up solar energy in 'solar-resource-rich countries' and reduce humanity's dependence on fossil fuels. Guterres also hailed India in his speech. "I thank India for setting an example and was pleased to present Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Champions of the Earth Award," the UN chief said. While accepting the award, PM Modi said, "I accept this award on behalf of millions of Indians who protect the environment each and every day... From fisherfolk who only take what they need or tribal communities who think of forests as their family. We will never be able to tackle climate change without bringing climate into our culture. And this is why India is taking so much action for our climate." PM Narendra Modi was awarded the UN honour along with French President Emmanuel Macron. The two leaders were recognised in the Policy Leadership category "for their pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and promoting new areas of levels of cooperation on environmental action". "For his leadership in the fight against plastic pollution in India, and his unwavering commitment to tackling climate change around the world, UN Environment has bestowed the United Nations' highest environmental honour upon Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi today, by awarding him the Champions of the Earth award," UN Environment said. "Prime minister Modi's unprecedented bold stance in the fight against single-use plastic sent a clear message to the world that the time for action is now," Head of UN Environment Erik Solheim said. "It is ambitious leaders like him that will propel us forward in the fight to keep our natural environment healthy, accessible and sustainable for all. For this, I am immensely inspired and grateful." The UN environment agency said that under Modi's leadership, Indian sustainable policy implementation and green grassroots initiatives have flourished, with forty million new cooking gas connections and over three hundred million LED bulbs being installed across the country. A major push towards renewable energy in recent years has propelled India to become the fifth largest producer of solar energy and the sixth largest producer of renewable energy worldwide. The Champions of the Earth Award is the United Nations' highest environmental honour, bestowed on the world's greatest change agents - individuals and organisations meriting international recognition for their environmental achievements. Before the government started its drive to revamp Indian railway stations, there were two things every passenger experienced at a station - a. The delayed arrival of trains. b. Travellers would, at some point, head over to the brightly lit weighing machine. But times have changed and so have our railway stations. Now, fewer trains arrive late and no one heads to the weighing machines anymore. Owing to a steep decline in usage, Indian Railways has decided to remove these weighing machines from all the railway stations across Maharashtra. These machines were introduced across railway stations in late 1950s and have been huge attractions ever since. They were equipped with the choicest of lights, spinning wheels and music. Not only young passengers, they would attract aged travellers as well. Passengers who wanted to check their weight only had to stand on the machine and insert a coin. The machine would then issue a small card with the user's weight written on it. These cards would at times feature the images of Bollywood stars, or if you were especially lucky - a motivational message. For most part, this entire unparalleled experience would cost an anna or 25 paise. Even up till recently, it would cost Rs 2. According to officials, these machines were outsourced and the tickets were supplied by printing presses owned by the Indian Railways in Mumbai's Byculla and Kolkata. After the introduction of digital weighing scales, fewer people used them, forcing the national transporter to discontinue the machines. A Western Railways official said that the removal of these machines started in 2013 after they discovered that passengers were not using them anymore. The daily mentioned that during a cleanliness drive in September, the Central Railways removed these machines completely. Not only these machines, other equipment such as old automatic ticket vending machines (ATVM) and old furniture that were not being used have also been discarded by the Indian Railways. (Edited by Anwesha Madhukalya) Breaking the convention of restricting panel discussions only to speakers and discussants, RK Singh, Minister for New & Renewable Energy, or MNRE attended the Chief Ministerial plenary midway. It came as a rather pleasant surprise for the Himachal Pradesh's Jai Ram Thakur and Puducherry's V Narayanasamy who got their queries resolved from the dais. The chief ministers, along with Lt Gov of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Admiral (retd) DK Joshi & Uttar Pradesh Additional Energy Resources Minister Brijesh Pathak were part of the session. MNRE had organised RE-Invest, which includes the first General Assembly of International Solar Alliance. Prior to the minister's arrival, the Himachal CM sought hydro projects above 25 MW capacity be considered under the renewable energy category. This allows not only flexibility, but also allows the state to qualify in fulfilling the Renewable Purchase Obligations by other states. This will create more opportunities in the state. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, Jharkhand's Raghubar Das, UP's Yogi Adityanath & Meghalaya's Prestone Tynsong, did not attend the discussion. Singh's entry & CMs choosing the dais made up for that. Singh told the CM that MNRE has already moved a cabinet note, and would seek approvals within a month. Similarly, the minister also accepted Narayanasamy's suggestion of raising issue of the GST on solar panel at the tax council. Addressing the queries of Narayansamy of required push for solar manufacturers, the minister said that he had already assured existing players that if country's capacity will come up to satisfactory level, he himself will push for extension of the existing safeguard duties. India added roughly 11 GW of solar capacity of which nearly 89 per cent were imported from factories in China & other countries. (Eds: Updates with more quotes, UN Secretary-General comments) New Delhi, Oct 2 (PTI) Stressing that India would generate 40 per cent of power from non-fossil fuels by 2030, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday called for connecting solar energy supply across borders giving the mantra of 'One World One Sun One Grid'. "We have a dream One World, One Sun One Grid. We generate round the clock electricity from Sun as it sets in one part of the world but rises in another part. Sun never sets for entire earth," Modi said addressing inaugural function of 2nd Global RE-Invest meeting of Indian Ocean Rim Association and the first assembly of International Solar Alliance here in the capital. The same event also marked the inauguration of the second IORA Renewable Energy Ministerial Meeting, and the 2nd Global RE-Invest (Renewable Energy Investors Meet and Expo). United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was also present on the occasion. Modi said he saw the 121-country International Solar Alliance as the future OPEC for meeting energy needs of the world. Oil cartel OPEC led by Saudi Arabia currently meets close to half of the world's oil needs. He said solar power will play the same role that oil wells have played over the past few decades in meeting global energy needs. Humans have in the last 150-200 years relied on resources trapped below the earth's surface for meeting energy needs. But for a secure future, resources available above the ground like solar and wind energy need to be harnessed, he said. Talking about India's plans for the renewable energy he said that India would add as much as 50 GW of non-hydro renewable energy to existing 72 GW and is successfully marching on the way to achieve the target of having 175 GW of clean energy by 2022. The prime minister was of the view that this was the right time to invest in renewable energy because there is a possibility of USD 70-80 billion business in the next four years in India. Modi said in the last four years USD 42 billion has been invested in clean energy in India. He also said that India's solar energy increased by nine times in the last four years after his government took over in May 2014. Elaborating about India's plans in renewables, he said that in the next four years as many as 28 lakh solar pumps would be installed which would help avoid 10 GW generation capacity. He also told that under UJALA scheme, 31 crore LED bulbs were distributed which save 40000 Million Units per year and have saved Rs 16,000 crore besides reducing CO2 emissions. He also informed that India has decided 40 per cent of electricity capacity would be non-fossil fuel based by 2030. He said, "Today ISA has become big hope for people. In three years, it has become an inter-governmental organisation. 125 crore Indians feel pride that ISA is headquartered in India. "I think whenever people would discuss a big organisation for human development then ISA would to on the top of the list. Whatever role OPEC is playing today to meet the energy requirement of the world, that would be played by ISA in coming days. Whatever role is played by oil wells today, would be played by sunlight." He also said, "We need to expand the scope of ISA beyond 125 tropical countries which fall between tropic of cancer and Capricorn. India in the first assembly of ISA will propose to send all United National member nations the proposal to become a member of the body." On this occasion, UN Secretary-General Antnio Guterres said, "It is India where we are going to see global renewable energy revolution. Solar energy is at the centre of this revolution." External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a person who has single-handedly put India in the renewable map of the world. The ISA is an action-oriented organisation." PTI KKS ANZ MR New Delhi, Oct 1 (PTI) Initiating a fresh round of action, the Enforcement Directorate Monday said it has attached assets worth Rs 637 crore of absconding jeweller Nirav Modi and his family in India and four other countries in connection with the USD 2 billion alleged fraud in the PNB.The agency said the properties, jewellery, flats and bank balances are in India, UK and New York among others,.There are only very few cases where Indian agencies have attached assets abroad in a criminal probe.The assets have been attached as part of five separate orders issued by the central probe agency under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), it said.The agency, a senior official said, also got issued an Interpol Red Corner notice (global arrest warrant) against Aditya Nanavati, an accused in the same case, on charges of money laundering.Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi are the main accused in the case where it is alleged that the two diamond jewellery businessmen allegedly duped and defrauded the Brady House branch of the Punjab National Bank in Mumbai for an amount of USD 2 billion (about 13,000 crore) in purported connivance with bank officials. PTI NES DVDV The government on Tuesday announced it will soon file a review petition against the National Green Tribunal's order to ban diesel vehicles that are over 10 years old and take several other measures to pacify agitating farmers and address their concerns. The Centre also assured farmers that it would fix the minimum support prices (MSP) of rabi (winter-sown) crops like wheat at least 1.5 times of the production cost. It would also try to restrict imports of agri items that are produced abundant in the country. These decisions were taken at a meeting held here under the chairmanship of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The meeting was held against the backdrop of farmers' protest organised by Bharatiya Kisan Union. The Centre would also approach the GST Council to put agri related goods in the 5 per cent slab, an official statement said. "The government will soon file a review petition against the NGT's order to ban diesel vehicles which are more than 10 years old," it said. The government also decided to take other steps to address problems of farmers. The other steps include inclusion of a farmers' representative in the sub-group of chief ministers on coordination between the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and agriculture; advisory would be issued to states for proper procurement of agri produce; and banning of imports of agri products adequately produced in India. On the issue of proper implementation of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna (PMFBY), a committee will be constituted under the Minister of State for Agriculture G S Shekhawat. The committee would look at the implementation issues of PMFBY and Kisan Credit card scheme in consultation with farmer associations. Further it was decided that crop damage due to stray and wild animals would be included in the PMFBY on pilot basis and then could be implemented across the districts. Procurement period would also be extended to 90 days. The main demands of the agitating farmers include implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission report, removing ban on the use of tractors which are more than 10 years old, clearing out pending payments of sugarcane purchase, increased price of sugar supplied and minimum support prices. Farmers stayed put on the Delhi-UP border in Ghaziabad and other places, where they were stopped by the police. The protest call has been given by the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices. The similarity between the dead Kingfisher Airlines (KFA) and the present-day Jet Airways is quite telling. The story of the fall of a large carrier like KFA was not one-off. The aviation business is cyclical world over, which makes the airlines prone to bankruptcies in every few years. The recent developments at the beleaguered Jet Airways reminds of the troubled days at KFA six years ago. KFA, which stopped flying in October 2012, is a case study for businesses on things that can possibly go wrong at a once-revered company. Though KFA never managed to report profits, the airline was able to garner substantial market share by disrupting the airline industry with its services matching that of a full-service carrier and fares comparable to low-cost carriers. A couple of months before the Kingfisher Airlines went belly up; the carrier struggled to pay salaries to its 7,000-strong employees. In May, the airline had to cancel a bunch of flights - seems to be the final straw - after pilots reported sick to protest for non-payment of salaries. When the Vijay Mallya-controlled airline was grounded, it had an outstanding debt of Rs 7,000 crore, net losses of 754 crore, and a negative networth of Rs 12,919 crore. Compare that to Jet Airways. The airline has been reportedly defaulting on employees' salaries for some time - making partial payments in some cases or not paying at all. The Naresh Goyal-controlled carrier had a gross debt of Rs 8,620 crore as on June this year, and net losses of Rs 724.94 crore in 2017/18. The airline has a negative net worth of over Rs 7,000 crore. Goyal's fight is not with the regulatory challenges; in fact, the rules allow 100 per cent FDI (foreign direct investment) in the aviation sector under automatic route. His biggest problem areas are beyond his control: elevated ATF (aviation turbine fuel) prices and depreciating rupee. With reports of crude oil prices heading north, there's clearly no relief in sight for Jet. So far, the plans to raise "survival" capital have not gone anywhere. Jet is reportedly planning to monetise 50 per cent stake in the frequent-flyer programme - JetPrivelege - besides conducting sale and-lease-back of 16 wide-body aircraft - Boeing 777 and Airbus A330 - that the airline owns. Global investors Blackstone and TPG Capital have reportedly evinced interest in buying stake in JetPrivelege, which is valued at Rs 8,136 crore. The question remains that who's going to buy loyalty programme of an airline whose future is highly susceptible. It's like buying a badly-constructed apartment that's unexpected to withstand tremors. What's surprising is that none of its lenders or trade partners - lessors, MROs, OMCs - has raised concerns yet. There are some reports that suggest that one of its A330s is parked in Jordan over non-payment of engine-related lease payments. Jet has faced severe headwinds in the past, and each time, Goyal has managed to pull a rabbit out of a hat. As far as going the KFA way, it seems that Jet is either there already or about to get there soon. Whether or not the pilot is over the alcohol limit is the last thing you probably want to think about when you board a plane. In the last eight years, 58 pilots of Air India have been caught drunk, right before they had to fly from various airports in the country. The scary data has been revealed by the state-run carrier itself, in response to a Right to Information (RTI) question filed by India Today TV. Delhi and Mumbai have topped the list of pilots failing the alcohol test during pre-flight checks, with 18 cases each. Chennai is a distant second with 8 cases and Bengaluru is at the third position with 6 pilots found drunk. Pilots who do not pass the test because of a higher than suitable blood alcohol limit are stood down and suspended. The Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has a clear procedure for the medical examination of aircraft personnel for alcohol consumption. According to it, crew members are prohibited from consuming any alcoholic drink 12 hours prior to the commencement of a flight. Though the airline has taken prohibitive action according to the rules, it has hardly had any impact. Over the years, the number of such cases has only gone up. In 2010, just one pilot was caught drunk, at Mumbai's airport, while the number stands at 10 for 2018 with three months still to go. The worst year was 2016 when 16 pilots were caught drunk right before flights were to depart. In response to India Today TV's question about action taken against such pilots, Air India said, "All the above pilots who reported drunk on duty have been given punishment in accordance with the procedures as laid down by DGCA." The prescribed punishment for such offences laid down by the DGCA clearly states that when a cabin crew member tests positive in a breath analyser test, or fails the test for the first time, his or her licence gets suspended for three months. For a second violation, the licence is suspended for three years and for a third violation, the licence is permanently cancelled. This comes as further bad news for Air India as discussions on its bailout package are at an advanced stage, the government said last month. This was after plans to sell a majority stake in the debt-laden airline failed due to a lack of interest from bidders. (An India Today TV exclusive) Ireland remained 0.3 percent or 127 million euros behind its tax revenue target for 2018 at the end of September, limiting the government's room for a more generous budget package next week, unless, as expected, it raises money elsewhere. Ireland has consistently beaten its revenue target in recent years, even as it gradually unwinds tax increases introduced during the financial crisis due to a rapid jobs recovery and the benefits of being a major location for multinational companies. However while corporate tax receipts were 6.3 percent ahead of target at the end of the third quarter, income tax and value-added tax, the two largest tax categories, stood 0.1 percent and 0.3 percent below target. A large 8.0 percent underperformance in excise duty more than wiped out the company tax gains. The total tax take, however, was still 5.2 percent up year-on-year, the data from the finance department showed on Tuesday, reflecting Ireland's strongly performing economy. Assuming fiscal targets are met, Irish Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe has a modest 800 million euros to dish out on further tax cuts and spending increases next year, having already committed over 2 billion through previously announced increases in current and capital spending. Donohoe is expected to find extra money through measures under consideration including the scrapping or part scrapping of a reduced VAT rate for the tourism sector. With expenditure 0.1 percent behind where the government had estimated it to be and up 8.9 percent year-on-year, the exchequer recorded a deficit of 1.47 billion euros for the first nine months of the year. The government expects to run a deficit of 0.2 percent of economic output this year, although the central bank and independent fiscal watchdog has urged it to be more prudent and target a surplus. (Reuters) Source: www.businessworld.ie Eurofins BioPharma Product Testing Ireland, Ltd. yesterday opened the new extension to its laboratory facility in Dungarvan, Co Waterford. The company is located in the IDA Business Park, where the new laboratory extension expands the previously 4,300m2 facility by an additional 4,400m2, more than doubling the facility footprint. The company is part of the Eurofins Group and focuses on analytical testing to support the development of new medicines by pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies. The work done at the Dungarvan laboratories provides important insights that further the development of safe, effective medication to help manage infections and cure disease. The new extension will primarily house the Bioanalytics and Molecular Cell Biology departments, in particular introducing new technologies such as Bioassay, ELISA and qPCR. All of these will offer clients increased flexibility within the Eurofins network, as key testing capabilities are now all available at one site. Eurofins BioPharma say the new laboratory boasts the latest in laboratory equipment, enabling the highly skilled staff to work with the most modern instruments and technologies, in order to provide fast, accurate information for their customers. Eurofins Biopharma Product Testing is already one of the major local employers in the region, employing 250 staff on site and an additional 250 staff located within clients facilities. With yesterdays opening of the lab extension, the company is looking to hire additional employees across a number of departments including, Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Biochemistry and their bespoke Professional Scientific Services (PSS) programme. In addition, there are opportunities in various support functions as well as attractive managerial positions for which the company is now hiring. In order to attract the right candidates, who are interested in bringing their dedication and expertise to Eurofins, the company is holding an Open Day on 13th October. Those interested in attending this event with a view to joining the Eurofins team are invited to register their attendance by e-mailing MyFuture@eurofins.com by 5 October. Speaking this week, Eurofins BioPharma Product Testing Managing Director, Carmel Fitzpatrick said, "The opening of the new laboratory extension today marks an important milestone in our companys long history. For over 30 years, we have supported the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industry in its work to develop new medication to improve health and well-being, most recently as part of the Eurofins Group." She added, "The investment into new laboratory space is a reflection of the increased demands of our customers and at the same time testament to the positive impact the dedication and hard work of our staff have made. I am looking forward to welcoming many new colleagues to our new facility, in order to provide the continuously high standard of testing and results to our growing client base." Source: www.businessworld.ie Employee State Insurance Corporation Limited (ESIC) has opened vacancies for the post of Senior Resident in various specialties. A walk-in interview is scheduled on October 8 and 9, 2018 and qualified doctors can attend the interview in order to apply and get selected. The engagement of employees will be on a contract basis. If a doctor resigns before the contract ends, he or she will be subjected to pay a compensation of INR 30000. Note that, a doctor who has already served as a Senior Resident for three years will not be eligible to apply. The application fee is to be paid through demand draft. ESIC Recruitment Application Fee Application Fee: INR 300 For SC/ST: INR 75 NHM Recruitment 2018 For 1171 Surgeons ESIC Recruitment 2018 Vacancy Details CRITERIA DETAILS Name Of The Posts Senior Resident Organisation Employee State Insurance Corporation Limited Educational Qualification MBBS with post graduate degree in relevant specialisation Experience Desirable Skills Required Clinical judgement Job Location Delhi Salary Scale Level 11 pay matrix Industry Medicine Application Start Date October 1, 2018 Application End Date October 9, 2018 Maximum Age Limit: 37 years ONGC Recruitment 2018 For Homeopathy Doctors How To Apply For The ESIC Recruitment 2018 In order to apply for the ESIC Recruitment 2018, follow the steps given here: Step 1 Log on to the ESIC official website. Step 2 Click Read More under Recruitment. Step 3 Scroll down to find the list of recruitment notifications. Step 4 Click on the link that reads, Walk in interview of Senior Resident to be held on 08.10.2018 & 09.10.2018. Step 5 The detailed notification will open. Read the details carefully. Step 6 Report to the venue with your application and supporting documents. Follow the link - https://www.esic.nic.in/attachments/recruitmentfile/6a8cabe6549ae1ed017e0f307461be0f.pdf to read the detailed official notification. A number of local soldiers have been stranded in one of the world's most troubled spots since Monday will now have to wait until October 16 to get home. 119 personnel due to return home this week will now not return until October 16. Therefore, I have decided as minister that personnel delayed in returning home will receive a 1,000 euro ex gratia payment in recognition of the disruption. @defenceforces October 3, 2018 Members of the 57th Infantry Group have been trying for three days to get home from the Golan Heights on the Syria/Israeli border following a six month deployment there as part of the United Nations Disengagement Observation Force (UNDOF). Families are distraught after a plane meant to carry troops home from Syria never left the ground and many had booked holidays to welcome their loved ones home at Dublin airport but their plans are now in ruins. The Defence Forces has acknowledged how difficult it is for partners and children who have been left bitterly disappointed. An army spokesman said organising travel through Lebanon and Syria can be challenging at the best of times and that they are working to bring the local soldiers home as soon as possible. Haver & Boecker enters joint venture in South Africa 03 October 2018 Haver & Boecker has entered into a joint venture with South Africas Portland Packaging (Pty) Ltd, marking the first time a global, full-line packaging company has domestically manufactured products for the African market, according to a press release. Bringing together the ingenuity and dedication of both of our manufacturing teams will be a huge benefit for Africa, said Florian Festge, managing director, Haver & Boecker. Customers will have nearly immediate access to packaging machines and OEM-quality parts. Further, our teams and Portland Packagings teams of local employees embody a keen understanding of the region and its companies, which all have specific challenges that need unique solutions. Theyre armed with the know-how and resources to serve any size or type of company and to do so for less expense and in less time than ever before, said Mr Festge. The new partnership means that customers in Africa will be able to receive the manufacturers products in 24 hours, significantly reducing the previous waiting times associated with shipping. Published under The Duchess of Cambridge is one of the busiest people in the royal family. Thats because she along with Prince William, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle is a working royal. Kate Middletons day-to-day schedule includes numerous official engagements, where she and her husband represent the monarch. Plus, Kate has her hands full raising three young children. That sounds like a lot of work. So does Kate Middleton get paid for her efforts as a working royal? Heres what you need to know. Kate Middleton is a working royal CNBC reports that when Prince Louis was born, his parents Kate Middleton and Prince William had to list their jobs on the princes birth certificate. For Wills part, he wrote, Prince of the United Kingdom, in the occupation section of the certificate, while Kate wrote, Princess of the United Kingdom.' For the record, Kate isnt usually called a princess because she wasnt born into the royal family, but she is technically both a princess and a duchess.) So what do those jobs entail? Being a royal is actually a lot of hard work, CNBC explains. The role of the Royal Family which includes William and Kate is to assist the Queen in carrying out her duties and also to carry out work in areas of public and charitable service. Each year, the royal family carries out more than 2,000 official engagements, entertains more than 70,000 people, and answers 100,000 letters. They also serve as patron or president of more than 3,000 charitable organizations. Participating in those duties, and representing the monarch as they do, is what makes William and Kate working royals. Prince Charles pays for William and Kates living expenses All of those engagements and appearances dont exactly leave Prince William and Kate Middleton with enough time to get a day job. But as CNBC reports, the Duchy of Cornwall pays for the couples living expenses. The Duchy dates back to the year 1337, when Edward III established it to provide income for the Prince of Wales. Currently, Prince Charles Prince Williams dad is the Prince of Wales. Prince Charles receives the annual income of the Duchy of Cornwall. Charles uses it to finance his public and charitable work, to fund his private life, and to pay for the expenses of his two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry. According to CNBC, Prince Charles has made millions from the suite of estates, and it was reported that in 2017, the Duchy reported spending $4.9 million to cover the official duties of Harry, William, and Kate. Though Kate Middleton may not technically earn a salary, the Duchy pays for things like official travel, wardrobe, housing, and staff costs, according to Money. She doesnt have to spend much of her own money anymore, because the Duchy absorbs most of the living costs associated with her royal duties and responsibilities. Prince William also has wealth inherited from Princess Diana CNN reports that though Prince Charles pays expenses for Prince William and Kate Middleton, the couple also has another source of wealth. Princess Diana, Williams mother, was worth an estimated $31.5 million at the time of her death. And she left much of her wealth in trust to her sons, including a discretionary fund that benefits Prince William, Prince Harry, their wives, and eventually their descendants. Both Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle benefit from the inheritance that Diana left to her sons. Neither couple signed a prenup before tying the knot. Money reports that Kate is worth at least 5 million, or $7 million, mostly in cash because she doesnt own a personal portfolio of property or artwork. Prince William, on the other hand, has a net worth of at least $30 million. Much of Kate Middletons net worth came from her parents business As Money explains, much of Kate Middletons net worth came from Party Pieces, the online party supplies business that her parents started. The company is estimated to be worth about $50 million, thanks in no small part to the exposure it gets from being associated with the royals. Before she married Prince William, Kate Middleton worked for the family business and as an accessories buyer for a retailer called Jigsaw. Kates parents made enough money to send her and her two siblings to expensive private schools. And before she moved into Kensington Palace, Kate lived in a Chelsea apartment worth about $1.4 million. But by marrying into the royal family, however, she also married into an $88 billion fortune amassed over generations. Read more: Does Kate Middleton Do Any Cooking or Household Chores? Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Fans can hardly contain their excitement for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to have a baby. On Oct. 15, 2018, palace officials announced the happy news for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex: Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are very pleased to announce that The Duchess of Sussex is expecting a baby in the Spring of 2019. Luckily, Harry has already proven hes total dad material. Hes had some of the sweetest interactions with kids of all ages, and luckily, there are photographs to prove it. Here are some adorable photos of Harry with children that let us know hes definitely ready for fatherhood. He blocks the sun from their eyes Apparently, Harry isnt just Markles prince charming. He may be royalty, but that doesnt mean he cant act as a human shield to help out an adorable baby from time to time. During a busy visit to Sussex, Harry stopped to say hello to a young fan and sweetly blocked her eyes from the sun in the process. He breaks out his dance moves We can already tell Harry is going to be a charmingly dorky dad. Hopefully, his children wont be too embarrassed by his dance moves, which he put on display with some kids in Scotland during a 2016 visit. His dab isnt exactly on point, but the effort clearly shows. The prince once said, I get a huge buzz spending time with kids. And if the photo above doesnt prove that to you, maybe the next one will. He goofs around in public When a 2-year-old girl stole a few handfuls of popcorn from Harry at the September 2017 Invictus Games, it made for one seriously adorable interaction. Harry teased the toddler while making hilarious faces and she was loving every minute of it. Considering Harry clearly didnt mind being photographed during the silly moment, we dont expect him to act any differently with his own children in public. He makes time for kids While visiting the University of Bath to watch trials for the 2017 Invictus Games, Harry undoubtedly had a busy schedule lined up. Even still, he made time to get down to a childs level and spend some time with him, even leaving him with a high five. We wouldnt be surprised if Harry got this parenting trait from his own mother, Princess Diana. She always carved time out of her day to spend with Harry and Prince William, which likely made a huge impact on who they are today. Hes always been great with kids Even though Harry had a bit of a wild reputation throughout his youth, he always seemed to be a natural when it came to kids. When Harry was 20 years old in 2004, he paid a visit to Lesotho in Africa. He made long-lasting connections with the local children, some of whom hes stayed in touch with over the years. He teaches them manners Harry may be a natural when it comes to bonding with kids, but he knows how to discipline them, too. When he and Markle paid Ireland a visit, a 3-year-old fan pulled at the Duchess of Sussexs hair and gave her a poke. While it was all in good fun, Harry scolded the child in a totally playful way. We love that this photo op gave us a glimpse into how Harry and Markle will lovingly teach their future children proper manners. Mayor creates order for all new city employees to be vaccinated news Prayer Banned at Graduations, School Events After Nation's Largest Atheist Group Complains Christian Post Contributor | 03 October, 2018 by Samuel Smith A school district in Massachusetts will no longer allow prayer at its school-sponsored events in order to appease one of the nation's leading atheist groups. Last month, Canton Public Schools Superintendent Jennifer Fischer-Mueller informed the Wisconsin-based Freedom From Religion Foundation that "steps have been taken to ensure that there will be no prayers or religious rituals" included as part of any school ceremony or school-sponsored event, including graduation ceremonies. Fischer-Mueller's letter came after FFRF, which advocates for a strict separation of church and state and regularly pressures school districts and local government entities across the nation to drop all types of religious activities and cooperation, sent a demand letter to her in late June. The letter complained about the fact that the Rev. John Tamilio III of the Congregational Church of Canton was invited to give a prayer at the 2018 Canton High School graduation ceremony last spring. Tamilio was invited by Principal Derek Folan to give the invocation. In the invocation, Tomilio is alleged to have called upon a "holy, loving, and most gracious God" in asking Him to bless the graduating students. Tomilio was also said to have prayed that the students would "serve others in service of You." The prayer concluded with Tomilio asking the audience twice for an "Amen." FFRF legal fellow Colin McNamara argues that Tomilio being asked to give a prayer at the ceremony is a violation of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. He claims, among other things, that the religious invocation alienates students who are not religious. "A prayer taking place at a 'regularly scheduled school-sponsored function conducted on school property' would lead an objective observer to perceive it as state endorsement of religion," McNamara stated. "It makes no difference how many students or families want prayer at the graduation ceremony." The Christian Post reached out to Fischer-Mueller for clarification on the school district's policy. She was asked how schools in the district were informed of the policy and whether students who want to offer a prayer in their graduation speeches would be allowed to do so. A response is pending. In his letter from June, McNamara cited the 1991 U.S. Supreme Court case of Lee v. Weisman. The court ruled in a 54 decision that government involvement through the invitation to a rabbi to speak at a Rhode Island middle school's graduation ceremony created a "a state-sponsored and state-directed religious exercise in a public school." Dissenting in that case where Justices Antonin Scalia, Clarence Thomas, Byron White and former Chief Justice William Rehnquist. "The history and tradition of our nation are replete with public ceremonies featuring prayers of thanksgiving and petition," the late Scalia wrote in the dissenting opinion. Scalia also criticized the majority's "deeper flaw" of relying on the question of "peer pressure" coercion. "The coercion that was a hallmark of historical establishments of religion was coercion of religious orthodoxy and of financial support by force of law and threat of penalty," Scalia added. "Typically, attendance at the state church was required; only clergy of the official church could lawfully perform sacraments; and dissenters, if tolerated, faced an array of civil disabilities. Thus, for example, in the colony of Virginia, where the Church of England had been established, ministers were required by law to conform to the doctrine and rites of the Church of England; and all persons were required to attend church and observe the Sabbath, were tithed for the public support of Anglican ministers, and were taxed for the costs of building and repairing churches." Justice Anthony Kennedy, who recently retired and whom President Donald Trump is trying to replace with nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh, wrote the majority opinion. "We know too that sometimes to endure social isolation or even anger may be the price of conscience or nonconformity," Kennedy wrote. "But, by any reading of our cases, the conformity required of the student in this case was too high an exaction to withstand the test of the Establishment Clause. The prayer exercises in this case are especially improper because the State has in every practical sense compelled attendance and participation in an explicit religious exercise at an event of singular importance to every student, one the objecting student had no real alternative to avoid." As many school districts would rather change their policies to avoid the costly legal fees of a lawsuit, FFRF has been successful in getting many school districts to change their prayer policies. Read more about prayer at school on The Christian Post. The number of Christian refugees allowed in the U.S. has fallen to a historic low. According to CBN News, in fiscal year 2018, which ended in September, 15,748 Christian refugees entered America. In fiscal year 2017, that number was 24,764, and in fiscal year 2016, that number was 36,822. The change is about a 57 percent drop from 2016 to 2018. The number of Muslim refugees entering the U.S. has also fallen. In fiscal year 2018, some 3,495 Muslim refugees came to America as compared to nearly 23,000 in fiscal year 2017 and nearly 39,000 in fiscal year 2016. A spokesman for the State Department said the drop was consistent with operational capacity to implement new screening and vetting procedures following Executive Order 13780, Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States. He also added that security checks take time. President Donald Trump issued the order in March 2017 and it went into partial effect three months later. The order prohibits refugees from Iran, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, Syria and Yemen from entering America for 90 days unless they can prove a bond fide relationship with someone in the U.S. Matt Soerens, the U.S. director of church mobilization for World Relief, said he is disappointed in the drop in refugees because he says the number of refugees in the world has increased. According to the U.N., that number is about 25 million. Photo courtesy: Peter Dlhy/Unsplash Last week, millions of Americans were caught up in the Senates Supreme Court hearings. There, psychologist Christine Blasey Ford testified that Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually attacked her while the two were in high school. Several hours later, Kavanaugh emphatically refuted Blasey Fords allegations. The hearings came months after Justice Anthony Kennedy, long seen as a swing vote on the court, announced his retirement. This news prompted alarm from the pro-choice community who feared that the new balance in the Supreme Court would overturn Roe v. Wade. Despite their fears, Kavanaughs confirmation seemed on track until Blasey Fords allegations went public. Shortly after the hearing, a book excerpt from Tim Keller, the founding pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church, appeared in The New York Times. Christians cannot pretend they can transcend politics and simply preach the Gospel, he wrote in his latest book Prodigal Prophet: Jonah and the Mystery of Gods Mercy. Those who avoid all political discussions and engagement are essentially casting a vote for the social status quo. To not be political is to be political. But that doesnt mean that Christians have to hold convictions about every moment of political life, said Keller. One example: knowing exactly who or what to believe about Kavanaugh and Ford. Neither you nor I are decision makers at all. Were not being asked to make a decision. If I was in a position where I had to make a decisionI had a vote or I had to do something about itthen I would be doing everything I could to get to the bottom of things, Keller told CT. Im not sure why everyone on Twitter feels like they have to come to a position. Thats actually kind of new. Keller joined associate digital media producer Morgan Lee and editor in chief Mark Galli to discuss how he follows this news, where his political convictions come from, and just how great the stakes are of politics. This episode of Quick to Listen is sponsored in part by Men Unplugged, a Christ-centered talk show. Its host, Jeff Jerina and well-known Christian leaders offer practical solutions for the issues facing men and their families today. For more information, go to www.MenUnplugged.net. This episode of Quick to Listen is brought to you in part PTZOptics, helping churches live stream broadcast quality services on a budget. Visit ptzoptics.com/church-makeover by November 16 to win a complete live streaming makeover for your church. What is Quick to Listen? Read more Subscribe to Quick to Listen on Apple Podcasts Follow the podcast on Twitter Follow our host on Twitter: Morgan Lee Follow our guest on Twitter: Tim Keller Subscribe to Marks newsletter: The Galli Report Music by Sweeps Quick to Listen is produced by Morgan Lee, Richard Clark, and Cray Allred In 2020, we were the church on our heels. A global pandemic shut down much of our world. But the church has been on the move since it was birthed; it will continue to be on the move until God makes all things new. Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Shortly after 10 pm on the evening of October 1, 2017, chaos erupted among country music fans who'd gathered at the Route 91 Harvest music festival on the Las Vegas Strip. Shots fired into the crowd by gunman Stephen Paddock eventually left 58 people dead and 851 more injured. As these traumatized survivors returned to their various communities feeling physically and emotionally wounded, churches in those communities were left wondering how to best care for the significant spiritual and emotional needs created by the shooting. On the one-year anniversary of this tragic day, it's important that churches realize how crucial ongoing spiritual and emotional care remains to survivors' long-term healing. In research studies we have conducted at Humanitarian Disaster Institute after three different mass shootings, we found that survivors who looked to their faith for strength and support experienced greater meaning and psychological resilience after the event. It's clear that churches have an important role to play in caring for survivors of mass shootings as they offer that essential support. Here are three ways that churches can help meet survivors' psychological and spiritual needs in the wake of mass shootings, drawn from research that my colleagues and I presented in a symposium on religion/spirituality and mass shootings at the 2016 American Psychological Association Convention. Don't Tell Survivors What to Believe, Think, or Feel After a gunman opened fire and killed five police officers at a July 2016 protest against police shootings in Dallas, our team explored how people made meaning of this tragedy and coped with loss in light of their spiritual beliefs and views of God. According to University of North Texas researcher Laura Captari, who presented our team's findings at the APA symposium, "In the wake of a mass shooting it is common for people to experience anger and confusion toward God as they try to make sense of what happened." Because of this, Christians who want to "help" are encouraged to assume a safe, caring posture of presence, and avoid offering judgment or instructions about what to believe, think, or feel. "When responding to those impacted by the shooting," Captari says, "it is important to avoid telling people what to feel or think about God. Avoid theological debates and cliche Christian responses. Instead, just be there. Offer your presence. Cry with them. Take time to listen and validate their pain, confusion, anger, and inner turmoil. Their questions about God are real and important, but don't feel as if you must provide the 'right' answer. Instead, show them that God is safe, caring, and presentnot judgmental or distantby embodying that in your own safe and caring presence." Connect People with Support Resources The mental health impact of a shooting like the one in Las Vegas extends beyond the death toll and injury counts. One of the key findings we discovered after the Orlando Pulse Nightclub shootingin which 49 people were killedwas that people living in geographic proximity to a disaster site also experienced increased distress. Georgia State University researcher David Zelaya, who presented the paper on our Pulse shooting research in the mass shooting symposium at APA, adds, "We found that proximity to the tragedy played a role...People residing in Florida experienced more psychological distress than their counterparts residing in other states." It's important, Zelaya says, that we help individuals close to the eventeven if they are not directly impactedget connected with support services in the wake of an attack as well as at anniversaries, during which distress may resurface. If you observe that an individual appears consumed by distressing thoughts and emotions that interfere with everyday life activities, additional support may be needed. Practice Humility When Helping Finally, our research after the Umpqua Community College mass shooting in Roseburg, Oregon demonstrates the importance of humility as a posture that connects us more deeply when helping and responding to the needs of mass shooting survivors. David Mosher, a University of North Texas researcher who spoke on how the findings of this research study can be applied to faith communities to provide psychological care in the wake of a mass shooting during the symposium, explains, "Humility toward others' backgrounds, experiences, and culture is more influential for reconciliation and healing than one's political or religious orientation." In other words, help offered after mass traumas like the Las Vegas shooting that considers survivors' cultural background and setting is more likely to succeed. Mosher continues, "Cultural humility is needed in our increasingly fragmented society because it supersedes racial, theological, and political barriers to allow us to see and connect to others as fellow human beings who are all created by God." For example, instead of assuming you know the best way to help, pause and ask survivors what they need. Together, these findings show that churches can be faithful to the challenge of caring for survivors of mass shootings as we offer our presence, assume a posture of humility, and connect survivors with the resources they need to flourish. Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The Holy Spirit prompted a Christian airline pilot to speed the departure of his Batik Air flight from Palu carrying 140 passengers, narrowly averting a potential disaster with the loss of many lives. The epicenter of a powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck Friday September 28th in a mountainous area of Central Sulawesi, 48 miles from the provincial capital of Palu. Only minutes later, underwater landslides apparently triggered a massive 10 to 20-foot tsunami that swept through Palu and other coastal areas. The waves were intensified by Palu's location at the end of a narrow bay. At least 1200 people perished and smaller villages in the surrounding area were entirely swept away. Because communication has been poor in remote areas, the death toll may increase dramatically. "All day Friday I had been feeling unsettled and I didn't know why," Captain Icoze Mafella recounted at a Jakarta church, Duta Injil BIP, on Sunday September 30th. To displace his feelings of unease, Captain Mafella a strong Christian began to loudly sing worship songs on his flight from Ujung Pandang to Palu. "Usually I only hummed, but that day I wanted to praise the Lord as best I could," he said. "I think you should make a CD of worship songs," his Muslim co-pilot told him, jokingly. When they were about to land at the Palu Airport, the wind was unusually strong and he "heard a voice in his heart" directing him to circle again before landing. The Palu airport is squeezed between two mountain ranges and some pilots refer to airports situated in this way as "valleys of death," so once again, the pilot felt prompted to be extra careful in landing and recited the 23rd Psalm: "I may walk through valleys as dark as death but I won't be afraid. You are with me and your shepherd's rod makes me feel safe," he said. After they landed, the Holy Spirit prompted him once more that he needed to be quick. He instructed his crew to take a shorter, 20-minute break, before the plane was due to take off for Jakarta via Ujung Pandang. MORE Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment This Thursday, October 4, more than half a million students from across the United States will join the Bring Your Bible to School Day movement. The annual student-led event, now in its fifth year, began with a simple goal to empower kids to share God's love with their friends and celebrate religious freedom. Students sign up on BringYourBible.org, and throughout the day, they broadcast their experience via social media using #BringYourBible. Participation is voluntary and student-directed, which means the real heroes of Bring Your Bible to School Day are the kids who make it happen. Sometimes real heroes are hard to come by, but these five student stories demonstrate the power of God's Word in the hands of young people: 1) Ethan: "What if I'm the only Bible that these people get in their life?" For Ethan, #BringYourBible is an opportunity not only to share God's love with his peers, but to embrace healing in his own life. Scripture became a lifeline for Ethan as he watched his father's tragic battle with drug addiction, which resulted in his death last December. Now Ethan wants to share that same lifeline with his friends at school. "Trying to stay strong and be rooted in my faith, it's all about thismy Bible," Ethan says. "Especially when you're attacked and when you're at an all-time low, you can just pull those Bible verses out of the back of your mind and they give you courage, they give you strength, and they give you the will to carry on. I've had a lot more people ask me questions about my faith and what I believe. [Bring Your Bible to School Day has] opened up a lot of opportunities for ongoing conversations." 2) Isabella: "[I felt God] kind of nudging at my heart." When Isabella first learned about Bring Your Bible to School Day, she wasn't sure she wanted to participate. "I was kind of afraid that kids at my school were gonna judge me or that they would make fun of me," she recalls. But Isabella felt God "kind of nudging at my heart," and decided to get involved. Although hesitant about the potential fallout of talking about the Bible and prayer at her public school, Isabella persisted with the support of her parents and equipped with information about her rights from the Bring Your Bible web site. By the time the day finally arrived, Isabella had succeeded in getting posters about the event displayed in the school lunch room and had gained the confidence to lead her classmates in a voluntary prayer before classes. " This is a new thing for me," Isabella said, "because at our school, it's not normal to see kids praying or doing that type of stuff... I feel like a lot more people were more open to us just having our Bibles there, just having prayer." 3) Hailey: "This was a great idea to share with other kids that Jesus loves them." For Hailey and her brother, Hunter, Bring Your Bible to School Day turned into an opportunity to break down cultural barriers. They handed out more than 60 Biblesin both English and Spanish translationsto kids at their dual-language school in California. Leading up to the event, Hailey and a few friends even spent their recess time translating Bring Your Bible promotional posters into Spanish so that no one would be left out. Their efforts resulted in the establishment of an ongoing Bible discussion group. "Because of Bring Your Bible to School Day, I feel more open about talking to Jesus at school," she says. 4) Lettie: "When you bring Jesus into a school area, it makes the whole place seem happy and bright." Like many Christian kids, 13-year-old Lettie assumed that she wasn't allowed to carry her Bible or talk about Jesus in the halls of her public school. So when she learned about Bring Your Bible to School Day and discovered these things were legal, she was thrilled. Lettie told her friends about it, and even before the day arrived, they began bringing their Bibles and praying together at their lunch table. As the event drew near, they also posted inspirational Scriptures and messages on their lockers. On Bring Your Bible to School Day, almost half of the kids in Lettie's class brought their Bibles to school with them, and the response was similar in other classes. "When you bring Jesus into a school area, it makes the whole place seem happy and bright," Lettie says. In fact, she made a commitment to spread that brightness far beyond the one-day event. Her principal granted her permission to start an after-school club called the "Christ Crew," a once-a-month gathering for prayer and Bible study. 5) Carson: "I told them that anyone who wanted [a Bible] could have one ... we ran low on fifth graders." A #BringYourBible veteran, Carson first got involved in our very first Bring Your Bible to School Day in 2014, and he's been an enthusiastic participant ever since. He started a project to collect donations and then purchase and distribute Bibles for kids who might want them. Carson didn't face any opposition from his school, but he did face opposition from a classmate. "He's like, 'There is no proof that God exists, and you shouldn't believe it because it's not something that is true,'" Carson recalls. But when Bring Your Bible to School Day rolled around again the following year, that same skeptical classmate had a change of heart. "This year he asked for a Bible the first time I brought them in," Carson says. "I gave him one; I think he's been reading it occasionally." The times have been dark lately. Our culture feels divisive and chaotic, and kids (and grown-ups) are busy searching for hope and meaning. It's these students Ethan, Isabella, Hailey, Lettie, Carson, and thousands of other who love the Word who shine a bright line in the darkness. Please join us in praying for Bring Your Bible to School Day this Thursday, October 4. Chile's Catholic Church criticised over guidelines regarding sexual abuse Chile's Roman Catholic Church was criticised by victims' groups on Monday as having 'poor judgment' and being arrogant after it apologised for a manual published on the website of Santiago's archbishop instructing priests and other Church workers not to 'touch the genitals of' or 'sleep with' children. The document, posted last Thursday, provided guidelines for the interaction of church staff with the lay community and was signed by Santiago Archbishop Ricardo Ezzati, who is under investigation for allegedly covering up abuse. It was to be discussed with Chilean congregations before being approved as official guidelines, but the document was removed from the website on Friday after media reports and social media criticism of the necessity for such basic guidelines. Juan Carlos Cruz, who was sexually abused by a priest as a boy and travelled to the Vatican this year to meet with Pope Francis, said it was 'outrageous' that it should be necessary to explain to anyone that touching children's genitals was wrong. 'To publish this without anyone raising alarm shows their arrogance and lack of attention to what they're doing,' he said. 'It's a reflection of their attitude.' Marcial Sanchez, a Chilean Church historian who has campaigned for the Church to pay closer attention to accusations of abuse, said the Church's apologies over such accusations and how it handles them were beginning to ring hollow. 'This shows there are still people in the senior leadership of the church who lack judgment and don't understand the depth of this crisis,' Sanchez said. The Church in Chile and elsewhere is facing widespread accusations of sexual misconduct by priests and non-clergy employees and cover-ups by Church leaders, and investigations of such claims in multiple jurisdictions. The document labelled as 'inappropriate' actions that a child 'might not accept, or might reject' such as 'too tight hugs, or touching bottoms or the genital area'. It cautioned against 'lying or sleeping with, giving massages to or kissing children, adolescents or vulnerable people on the mouth'. Santiago's auxiliary archbishop Cristian Roncagliolo said in a statement posted on the Church's website on Sunday, 'We have asked for forgiveness,' and suggested that some aspects taken from Church documents in other countries had been translated 'too literally'. 'There are mistakes in the text, perhaps caused by our adopting guidelines from other cultures,' he said, adding that the document would be revised 'to reflect in our own words that a crime is a crime'. 'Guardians of civilisations': Why the Middle East needs Christians Life for Christians in the Middle East today has been hugely impacted by war. Parts of the region have been emptied of Christians entirely. In other places, they are clinging on, reduced in number and deeply insecure. There's nowhere that hasn't felt the effects of conflict, whether directly as armies and militias have fought through their homes and villages, or indirectly as refugees and internally displaced persons have crowded into camps offering food and shelter no matter how inadequate these often are. But the story across the region is far more complex than is often told. While in some places Christians are harried and persecuted, in others they are able to minister to those in need. Over-simplifying a complicated landscape is a besetting sin of the West, with consequences that will last for generations. Michel Constantin is regional director of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association/Pontifical Mission, overseeing programmes in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Egypt from his base in Beirut. Now 55, he's lived in Lebanon all his life and is intimately acquainted with the life of Christians in the Middle East through CNEWA/PM's mission to build up the church, alleviate poverty and inspire hope. On a recent visit to the UK with Embrace the Middle East, he tells Christian Today that Christians there need security, they need someone to speak for them in the corridors of power, and they need people there alongside them during the long road to recovery. He speaks of Iraq, where 'Christians are considered a defeated people.' Regarded as supporters of the Saddam Hussein regime, many of them have been displaced multiple times, from Basra, to Nineveh, to Erbil, to Nineveh again. From nearly 1.5 million in 2004, the Christian population is down to less than 300,000 now. 'The result is that they are diminishing in political presence and weight, they are getting lighter and lighter,' says Constantin. 'It was their dream 10 years ago that they could ask for an autonomous province in the Nineveh Valley. But now they're a minority even there. They are getting weaker and weaker. 'The people I meet would all like to leave Iraq.' He stresses that CNEWA/PM, like other Christian organisations, wants to 'accompany them and respect their choices, and try to improve the quality of the services for them'. But, he says: 'I am very pessimistic about any large-scale return. The society is corrupted and divided among Muslim communities and ethnic communities these are deadly conflicts and Christians are a very small minority, and can't change anything. It is not an equal contest.' In Syria, beginning to see an end to another ruinous war, the situation is different. 'Christians have suffered the consequences of the war, but they didn't have to leave their homes or their churches no one took their homes or their properties,' Constantin says. 'The war is very harsh, many left for Lebanon, France or Europe. But the regime is the winner. Christians were never against the regime.' For the most part, he says, Christians like everyone else suffer from the quality of services and the shattering of the economy. 'There are 5-6 million Syrians outside Syria. The most qualified people left, it's hard to return. 'I think it will be a long process, reconstruction not one night. And the international fundraising fatigue makes the misery longer. 'In Syria, we try to give hope to those who remain, and improve the quality of their lives with electrictity, medical facilities and supplies. Sixty per cent of the hospitals in Syria are out of business.' Fear, poverty, the sheer difficulty of life with a collapsed infrastructure and the lack of any clear hope of a future have driven the refugee outflow. In Lebanon and Jordan, the number of refugees is almost half the population. Constantin's own country of Lebanon has responded to the flood of refugees with extraordinary generosity. 'It is a very small country with a very small economy,' he says. Usually Lebanese people emigrate from Lebanon to the West around 4 million Lebanese live there, but there are 17 million outside the country, 7 million of them in Brazil. And yet it has 2 million refugees, including many from Syria. 'The burden is very heavy. The local infrastructure is in bad shape from the civil war we don't have electricity, water, sewage. 'The Syria war is why the situation is so unfortunate. Refugees are not in regular camps. They are in every village there are 36,000 refugee settlements, with people living in tents.' Unregulated and undocumented, he says, 'They are competing for work with poor Lebanese people. Wages are going down.' While each country has been impacted by deadly and destructive conflicts, each bears the weight of its own history and faces its own political and social challenges and this, too, is an issue for Christians, because it makes it very difficult to speak with a unified voice. As Constantin says: 'The West has fragmented over doctrine and theology. In the East it is over political issues.' And such is the force of identity politics in the region, he says, 'Even if there was one voice, they would hardly be heard.' In Iraq, the extremist vision of an East without Christians has already come to pass. And Constantin stresses that this is a tragedy not just for Christians, but for the world. The Church in the Middle East is very different from Europe. The churches are not only religious, they are also the guardians of civilisations,' he says. The ancient Syriac language is preserved in the church; Assyrians and Chaldeans still form living communities in Iraq; in Egypt, it is the Christian Copts that are the link to the Pharaonic past. 'The Middle East without Christians would be much poorer,' Constantin says. Minorities Christians everywhere, Yazidis in Iraq, Druze, Shia Muslims in Egypt all need protection if they are to flourish. And hence his call for aid: Christians need 'someone to talk for them', representation in places where the decisions are made that will affect them; they need practical help of the kind CNEWA/PM helps to deliver, 'to be accompanied in their daily lives, to improve their lives and long-term help, not just help to cover an immediate emergency. And with other minorities, in many places they need protection. 'There is no umbrella for the Christians in Iraq, or for any of the minorities. There is no protection against aggression, there are no observers.' The vision of a Middle East depopulated of Christians is a bleak one. But it is not the whole story. Constantin and people like him are working to support those who remain, to strengthen them in their life and witness on the front line of faith. Lawyer for US pastor Andrew Brunson appeals to Turkey's highest court The lawyer for US evangelical pastor Andrew Brunson said he filed an appeal on Wednesday to Turkey's constitutional court for his client's release from house arrest. The case of Andrew Brunson, whose next regular court hearing is on October 12, has become the most divisive issue in a worsening diplomatic row between Ankara and Washington that has triggered US sanctions and tariffs against Turkey. The filing to the constitutional court Turkey's highest seen by Reuters showed the lawyer had requested the court to rule that Brunson's right to freedom had been violated and to release him from house arrest. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told a news conference on Tuesday that the United States would maintain close contact with the Turkish government over Brunson's trial. 'We certainly would like Pastor Brunson home right away. It's long overdue,' she said. Brunson is charged with links to Kurdish militants and supporters of Fethullah Gulen, the cleric blamed by Turkey for a failed coup attempt in 2016. He has denied the accusation as has Gulen and Washington has demanded his immediate release. Jailed or held under house arrest since October 2016, Brunson faces up to 35 years in jail if convicted. Last month the main prosecutor in his trial was replaced, a move which his lawyer cautiously welcomed, saying it might be a sign of changing political will. President Tayyip Erdogan has said politicians have no sway on the judiciary and that the courts will decide on Brunson's fate. He said on Monday that Brunson has 'dark links with terror organisations'. 'No significant change': Brett Kavanaugh, Christine Blasey Ford and America's lost art of listening My four-year-old son is currently learning a difficult lesson. He's mastered all sort of things in his short time on earth so far. He's learned to walk, to talk, to count, to spell, to talk, to share, to brush his teeth, to talk, to ride a scooter, to dress himself, to talk and other things...mainly talking. While he's clearly reached expert status in his own talking ability, the art of conversation is something that's taking longer to grasp. The past few months have seen us trying to help him work this out. After a week or two we'd helped him understand the necessity to use the phrase 'excuse me'. It's a simple phrase that, as adults, we're used to saying. I assume my parents taught me the same thing when I was a toddler (and I assume they had the same problems I am having with my son, who has inherited his love of his own voice from his father). It's a polite way of entering a conversation and letting those already speaking know that you'd like to say something. He quickly got the hang of it and we, as parents, did all we could to make sure when we heard those magic words we made space to allow him to say what he needed to. It was all working very well and it was difficult not to feel a wave of smug parenthood washing over ourselves. Sadly, as with most small victories, it wouldn't last. After a few days we realised we couldn't just stop what we were talking about every time he said 'excuse me'. Sometimes we were in the middle of important conversations, things that needed to be worked out before we could move on with what we were doing. We also realised that he'd misunderstood the power of 'excuse me' and that it wasn't a magical phrase that suddenly gave him carte blanche to begin chatting about whatever was on his mind there moment he uttered it. It became particularly obvious a short while ago when, after saying 'excuse me', we continued to chat for a just a couple of seconds before he shouted, 'Excuse me! I said excuse me! Did you not hear me? ARE YOU EVEN LISTENING?!?!?' Those last four words seemed to echo around the news and social media last week as a US senate judiciary committee heard from Prof Christine Blasey Ford and Judge Brett Kavanaugh. Much has been made of their testimonies, words like 'brave', 'compelling', 'credible', 'passionate', 'believable' and 'real' filling articles, news reports and tweets. Every second of their time in the chair has now been dissected and examined. Ford's composure and bravery have been praised. Kavanaugh's temperament has been questioned. The timing of the accusation has been put under scrutiny. The calls for a full investigation have been amplified. YouGov took a poll following the hearing that asked Americans who they believed after the testimonies. Forty-one per cent of respondents said they 'definitely' or 'probably' believed Ford's testimony. Thirty-five per cent said they 'definitely' or 'probably' believed Kavanaugh. The response to the issue of lying was similar, with 30 per cent responding that they thought Ford 'probably' or 'definitely' lied during her testimony and 38 per cent saying the same of Kavanaugh. The split along party lines was as perhaps would have been expected with 73 per cent of Democrats believing Ford and 74 per cent of Republicans believing Kavanaugh. Only 14 per cent of Republicans believed Ford and only 11 per cent of Democrats believed Kavanaugh. It's difficult not to be disheartened by this particular result, with political loyalty being so ingrained in this whole affair. This is a story that has proved divisive in an already divided nation. In answer to the overall question of whether people thought the confirmation should proceed, 41 per cent oppose it, 36 per cent support it. In a similar poll taken before the hearings, 80 per cen t gave the same response. And the general shape of the response to whether or not the confirmation should continue showed, and I quote, 'no significant change from our prior poll'. No significant change. After hours of testimony, deeply personal, emotionally charged, raw, life-changing testimony. No significant change? A vote followed on the committee, the 11 Republicans in favour, the 10 Democrats opposed. 'No significant change'. A further vote looms for the 51 Republicans and 49 Democrats of the Senate. As we await a result, many expect 'no significant change'. It makes me want to scream, like an impatient four-year-old with a lot to say: 'ARE YOU EVEN LISTENING?!?!' But then I take stock, I think about my own opinions and biases. My political leanings, my ideological goalposts and theological red lines. I'm reminded of the times I've sat waiting for someone to finish speaking so I could 'put them right' or 'have my say'. Of the occasions when I'm not interested in learning because I'm here to teach. Of the conversations where I've barely been able to let someone finish a sentence I'd written off before they'd even started. Sure, I might say the right polite thing, or yield some space in the conversation, but if all I'm doing is allowing someone's voice to be heard so I can tick that box of 'inclusion' or 'fairness' without actually allowing what they say to impact or enlighten me, am I really any better than a rushed hearing with an outcome no different than the one that would have reached without it? Because when all is said and done, if we can't be moved, if we can't be persuaded, if we can't countenance the contrary, we can allow others to speak all we like but are we even listening? Matt White is a Northern Irish TV producer living in Essex and working in London. Follow him on Twitter @mattgwhite Pope Francis' popularity takes a hit over handling of sex abuse crisis Confidence in Pope Francis' handling of his church's global sex abuse crisis has plummeted among US Catholics, according to a new Pew Research Center poll. Just three in 10 Catholic adults say he is doing an 'excellent' or 'good' job addressing the issue, down 24 points since 2015 and 14 points from when Pew Research Center last asked the question in January of this year. While seven in 10 American Catholics say their overall opinion of Pope Francis is favorable, six in 10 now say he is doing an 'only fair' or 'poor' job handling the sex abuse scandal, including 36 per cent who say his efforts on this front have been poor. The decline in confidence in Francis' handling of the crisis is consistent across different Catholic groups. For instance, since 2015 it has declined by 24 points among Catholic men and 23 points among Catholic women. Even among Catholics who say they attend mass weekly, the share who give Francis positive marks for his handling of the sex abuse crisis has been cut in half since 2015; 34 per cent in this group now give Francis 'excellent' or 'good' ratings for his handling of the issue, whereas 67 per cent gave him a positive evaluation in 2015. US Catholics' overall opinion of Pope Francis remains favourable at around 70 per cent. However, this is down 12 points since the beginning of the year. Only 30 per cent now say they have a 'very favourable' opinion of him. Among the US public as a whole including both Catholics and non-Catholics roughly half say they have a favorable view of Pope Francis, which is the lowest rating he has received in nine Pew Research Center surveys that have asked about Pope Francis since the beginning of his pontificate in 2013. Sudan releases thousands of Bibles held for years in shipping containers A shipment of Bibles believed to have been held in a Sudanese port for six years has been cleared for distribution. The Bibles were held at Port Sudan and were 'decaying' in shipping containers, a source told World Watch Monitor (WWM), but were released a fortnight ago and transported to Sudan's capital, Khartoum. Sudan is an Islamic state where Christians routinely face discrimination and harassment. WMM's source said the government had delayed clearing the Bibles since 2011, though the country's 2 million Christians were short of Bibles and teaching materials. In October last year a senior church leader, who has overseen the import of hundreds of thousands of Bibles and other pieces of Christian literature to Sudan, told World Watch Monitor the Bible Society had not received any new Bibles to distribute in Sudan since 2013. The release of the Bibles came after Sudanese authorities returned 19 properties to the Sudanese Church of Christ, two years after it confiscated them in a long-running dispute between the government and the church over the ownership of the properties. A court ruled against the government in August and ordered the return of the properties, and that the case against five church leaders should be dropped. Sudan is fourth on the 2018 Open Doors World Watch List of the 50 countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian. Heartwarming and haunting two works by Khadija Saye Offered for the first time at auction, with proceeds to benefit The Khadija Saye IntoArts programme, two works by the brilliant young artist who tragically lost her life in the Grenfell Tower fire in London In early 2017, the artist Khadija Saye completed a series of nine tintype photographs she called Dwelling: in this space we breathe. Each work was a self-portrait, in which Saye performed a different, time-honoured, Gambian spiritual ritual. The series was intensely personal for Khadija, says her former mentor, the artist Nicola Green. She drew on subject matter she cared deeply about exploring the emotions, feelings and consequences of her journey and heritage. Though she was born and brought up in London, Sayes parents were from The Gambia and in Dwelling... she can be seen exploring their Muslim and Christian heritage and holding various objects that are considered sacred in The Gambia, such as a cow horn and incense burner. The artist herself referred to the series as charting the deep-rooted urge to find solace in a higher power. Tragically, within a few months of making the series, Khadija died alongside her mother, Mary, who she shared a flat with, in the fire that engulfed Grenfell Tower in North Kensington on 14 June 2017. She was just 24 years old. At the time of her death, six of her Dwelling... images were being exhibited at the prestigious Venice Biennale in a project called the Diaspora Pavilion, in which a group of contemporary artists from racially diverse backgrounds presented work on the theme of migration and displacement. The Sunday Times art critic, Waldemar Januszczak, hailed Sayes contributions as at once heartwarming and haunting, with an ancient look to them, as if they had been discovered in some 19th-century scrapbook. Their appearance was down to the artists choice of medium. Invented in the Victorian era, tintype photography is made (in black-and-white) using a wet metal plate and collodion solution. With the appearance of age comes the sense of fragility: a fragility that, since the Grenfell blaze, one might ruefully interpret in light of Khadijas own. Whilst exploring the notions of spirituality and rituals, the process of image-making became a ritual in itself Khadija Saye The artist was given her first camera by her father at the age of nine, and photography was a childhood passion she would turn into a career. She went on to do a BA in the subject at the University of the Creative Arts, in Farnham, producing work that increasingly explored her personal, cultural identity. Sayes graduation project, in 2013, was a series called Crowned, in which she captured an array of black womens hairstyles. Her mother and friends were the sitters, all shot in a makeshift studio in her apartment on Grenfell Towers 20th floor. Dwelling: in this space we breathe was her first major series [but it] drew on her previous, photographic work, says Green. It was a privilege for those of us who knew Khadija to watch her make it. (Saye and Green met in 2014, when the former successfully submitted work to a London exhibition, for which the latter was on the selection committee. Saye would take a role as Greens studio assistant shortly afterwards.) Given how relatively few black women feature in 19th-century portraiture, the Dwelling... works have an unnerving sense of the incongruous about them an incongruity, that is, between medium and subject. In turn, this provokes thoughts of historic, racial inequality. Also, unlike photographic practice today when most of us need do little more than press a button on our phones tintypes are open to the effect of outside elements, most obviously the quality and constancy of light. As Saye herself put it, whilst exploring the notions of spirituality and rituals, the process of image-making became a ritual in itself. The two-dimensional mammogram is still the gold standard in breast cancer detection but the head of imaging at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital doubts that will be the case in a few years. I think 2-D is going to go away, said Robin Judman, director of operations for Memorial Hermann Outpatient Imaging in Katy. Already taken its leading role at most hospitals in the Houston area is 3-D technology called Breast Tomosynethsis which experts say is the latest technology for early detection. A 2-D mammogram takes two-dimensional images of the breast, one from the top and the other from the side. Tomosynthesis takes 15 successive images at slightly different angles across the breast. The images are assembled by a computer to produce clear, highly focused 3-dimensional images throughout the breast. Medical experts say it contributes to improved accuracy in screening results and pinpointing the location of a lesion. You can actually see inside the breast. It can penetrate the dense breasts better than it would before, Judman said. Cancer detection rates increase by as much as 30-to-40 percent using 3-D mammography with a 30-to-40 percent decrease in false positives. Also, dense breast tissue can look similar to cancer on a mammogram. Tomosynthesis makes it easier to distinguish between dense tissue and malignancies and allows radiologists to look at isolated areas of the breast in greater detail, said Dr. Anne C. Kushawa, an associate professor in the department of diagnostic radiology at the MD Anderson Cancer Center. The 3-D technology can also detect cancerous tissue that might have gone undiscovered through the 2-D mammogram or manual examination. Judman said one of their patients had two areas of cancer the size of a grain of rain in both breasts. They were spotted through Tomosynthesis. She said (it) saved her life, Judman said. She said some patients have concerns about the radiation they will be exposed to through the 3-D imaging process. Its no more than during a 2-D mammogram. Its a very low dose. Its like flying an airplane from here to New York. You get the same radiation, Judman said. Most of the larger hospitals in the area have the 3-D Tomosynthesis equipment, which costs about $500,000. It could take awhile for everyone to get theirs. Eventually, the 3-D will become the gold standard, Judman said. An important development, Judman said, is that insurance companies are now covering Digital Tomosynthesis examinations. She said it took five years for that to happen. The women themselves fought for it, Judman said. Its important for womens care. mike.glenn@chron.com Alira Boutique Salon & Spa will host a special event at 6 p.m. Oct. 11 to kick off its annual Breast Cancer Awareness month. In conjunction with the fundraiser, boutique owner Escarle Silva has invited a small group of breast cancer survivors to her salon for a complimentary makeover the day of the event. The fundraiser is scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. at Alira Salon & Spa, 1619 W. Alabama St. October is annual national Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which gives me a chance to give back to the community which has become my home, said the Venezuelan-born Silva. I have been closely touched by breast cancer as my aunt and two close friends have died from this terrible disease. Featured at the Oct. 11 event will be live music, a DJ and cocktails and appetizers for guests. Celebrity emcee Katherine Whaley of KTRK-TV ABC Channel 13 will present a check from Alira Salon & Spa to the Holly Rose Ribbon Foundation and introduce the ladies after their makeovers. Silva has set up a fundraising page at Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.com/o/escarle-silva-15274202182 for the $25 event tickets and donations to the Holly Rose Ribbon Foundation, a non-profit organization that assists breast cancer survivors with reconstructive surgery. At the event, co-founder Cindi-Harwood Rose of the Holly Rose Foundation will donate a pearl necklace for each participating cancer survivor. Over the past five years, Silva has treated more than 120 cancer survivors with complimentary makeovers at her salon. Two years ago, she received a proclamation on Oct. 13 as Escarle Silva Day from the mayor of Houston. A particular piece of wisdom has stuck with Lake Houston business owner and community leader, Leslie Raffa. Its a piece of advice she offers for others going through traumatic situations like the ones she has endured. Its OK to have a pity party, but dont unpack and stay there, Raffa said. Get your emotions out, cry, get it all out, but then start the next day new and fresh. You cant wallow in it. Its not healthy to just stay in a really bad place. Raffa and her younger sister, Ashlie Gannon, had watched their mother battle through breast cancer years before either of their diagnoses. Gannon was the first of the sisters to be diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation. A couple of weeks after completing her therapies, she returned for a check-up and learned that her cancer had spread. Two weeks after Ashlie learned that she was terminal, I was diagnosed, Raffa said. So, my parents had two daughters fighting (breast cancer) at the same time. Gannon passed away in 2016 on Mothers Day, survived by her two young children. Raffa had to continue treatment for her own breast cancer while mourning the loss of her younger sister. Throughout her treatment, Raffa focused on fighting the day-to-day battles visiting doctors, undergoing therapies but when she reached the end of her treatment, Raffa realized she wasnt prepared for the emotional fallout that followed. I always thought, Get to the finish line; get to the finish line, Raffa said. I thought when all of the therapies were over, then everything would be over, and its not it goes beyond that. You have to reflect on what just happened and you think, Wow, that was a lot and I hope it was enough. Raffas two-and-a-half years of treatment included a bilateral mastectomy, breast reconstruction and chemotherapy. She completed her final therapy in February 2017. Her ability to reflect on what she just went through was interrupted a few months later when Hurricane Harvey arrived. Raffas Waterfront Grill in Kingwood the restaurant she runs with her husband Tony took on five feet of floodwater. Raffa feels that the devastation she felt from Harvey may have been compounded by how recently she finished her therapies. When (treatment) is all over, its like what happened? Its almost the hardest part mentally, Raffa said. I was kind of in the midst of reflecting on and processing what just happened when Harvey happened. There wasnt a huge amount of time to take a breath and go, OK, life is good. Over one year after Harvey, Raffas aims to reopen mid-October. The journey was arduous and one that was made possible through the outpouring of support from friends and community members, Raffa said. It kind of looked like when you run a stick through an ant hill there were people everywhere helping, Raffa said. We didnt reach out for help; help came to us and each day it multiplied. People we hadnt seen in years came. I had a friend who drove in from another state to help with a car full of supplies. We had people who had their own flooding and still carved out time to come help us. It was mindboggling. That same support shown by family and friends was something that helped Raffa during her battle against breast cancer as well. I think its important to rely on your support group whatever that is and I think its important to put those in place and use them, Raffa said. Raffa was surprised by her friend who landscaped her yard. She said that she wanted to give me flowers with roots because they last longer, Raffa smiled. I had someone every week send me the most exquisite cards the 3-D ones that are all hand-done. I still have all of them. The support and companionship was amazing. It was nice to see the people who really cared and went out of their way to support not just me, but my family. A lot of great things happened during that time and the blessings made the horrible things more tolerable, and continue to do so. Raffa has another piece of advice that she is adamant about always get annual breast screenings. For people without the financial means necessary to afford a mammogram, Raffa pointed to programs that accommodate people in need, like The Rose Foundation, or Project Mammogram, which is funded in part through the annual In the Pink of Health Luncheon at the Airport Marriott. Raffa will be a guest speaker at this years event. I think its important to promote these types of resources, Raffa said. This is precisely why I have agreed to assist the In the Pink campaign again this year. The fundraising efforts from this campaign are used to help men and women in our very own area. mfeuk@hcnonline.com There are 525,600 minutes in a year. According to figures from the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, that is the same number of women who die each year from breast cancer. It is the goal of the Komen Foundation to cut those figures in half by 2026. The 2018 Race for the Cure will be held Saturday, Oct. 6, at Sam Houston Park, 1000 Bagby St., Houston, TX 77002. Lasts race was rescheduled to Jan. 27, 2018, after Hurricane Harvey washed out the normal October race. This year, race day walk-up registration begins at 6 a.m. Saturday. The opening ceremony and memorial bird release is scheduled for 7:45 a.m. Races begin at 8 a.m. The morning culminates with the 10 a.m. survivor celebration. The Susan G. Komen Houston chapter was established in 1990, making this the 28th annual Race for the Cure. The money raised from the fundraiser will help fund programs all across the seven-county region surrounding Houston that makes up the chapters footprint. The Houston chapter serves Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty and Montgomery counties. Just days before the race, runners and walkers can still participate in the Komen Houston Race for the Cure by joining an existing team, forming a new team or by registering as an individual participant. Komen Houston is encouraging area residents to join a team and donate or raise $100 this year. The history of the Susan G. Komen organization was born in a promise in 1980 that Nancy Goodman Brinker made to her sister, Susan, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 33 in 1977. Susan died in 1980. Brinker promised to do everything she could to bring an end to breast cancer and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation was founded in 1982. The Komen Foundation is striving to cut breast cancer deaths by 50 percent by 2026. At this years event, KPRC2s Khambrel Marshall and Gilbert Garcia, managing partner at Garcia Hamilton & Associates, have been named Komen Houston Race for the Cure Co-Chairs. According to Komen Houston, Marshall has been involved with the organization for nearly 10 years, starting as event emcee, then as a board member, and now, race co-chair. Garcia has served as Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County chairman, Secretary of the Board of Directors of the Houston Downtown Management District, a member of the Board of Directors of the Yale Club of Houston and a member of the Board of Trustees of the Houston Municipal Employees Pension System. Garcias mother is a breast cancer survivor, his sister lost her mother-in-law to breast cancer, and his cousins wife is battling now, so his connection to the disease is a personal one. For more information on the race or the Houston Chapter, go to www.komen-houston.org or email info@komen-houston.org. rkent@hcnonline.com Sam Simons new, highly theatrical one-act play, The Actual Dance, which will arrive in Houston for an exclusive, two-performance run on the weekend of Oct. 13 and 14. Theatre at the J, the theatre program of the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center (the J), is offering The Actual Dance as the first offering of its 2018-19 season. It is offered as a special event in partnership with Congregation Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood and the Houston Chapter of Hadassah. The Saturday evening performance will begin at 8 p.m. Oct. 13, and the Sunday matinee performance will begin at 3 p.m. Oct. 14. A meet the cast reception will be held following the Saturday evening show. Performed by its author Sam Simon, The Actual Dance tells the story of his wifes victorious battle with breast cancer from a unique point of view - that of a husband and caretaker supporting his spouse through her journey. In his performance of the dance, Simon will be accompanied by two, live, on-stage local musicians - Marc Garvin on guitar, and Sonya Matoussova on cello. Both Saturday and Sunday performances will be followed by a question/answer talk-back session with Simon and his wife, Susan. While The Actual Dance has been performed in numerous venues across the country, the special collaborative effort bringing the play to Houston audiences is especially meaningful for Simon, who was married to his wife, Susan Kalmans, in Congregation Beth Yeshuruns J. B. Greenfield Chapel in 1966. According to Vicky Richker, co-president of Congregation Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood, The Sisterhood works with the synagogue, congregants, and other organizations to sponsor events that are timely, educational and entertaining. We are honored to partner with the J and the Houston Chapter of Hadassah to present The Actual Dance - such a moving story of love, perseverance, and survival. Richker and Barbara Koslov are co-presidents of Congregation Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood. Debbie Angel, president of the Houston Chapter of Hadassah, concurs that this partnership is an especially rewarding endeavor for Hadassah, known for their research in breast cancer. Much of the underlying work to identify the genetic markers for breast cancer was done at Hadassah Hospital. Hadassah also works toward strong U.S./Israel relations while sponsoring and operating several social service programs, and scientific/medical research and treatment. Tickets are $25 and are available at erjcchouston.org/theatre or by calling 713-729-3200. About Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Houston is a non-profit organization that provides quality programs for all members of the family including infants, school-aged children, teens, adults and seniors. Evelyn Rubenstein JCC provides more than $500,000 in scholarship aid to area families in need thanks to the generous support received, in part, from the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston and the United Way. See More Collapse Visit www.erjcchouston.org for more information about our programs and services. The Rose Takes Center Stage is slated for Sunday, Oct. 7, at The Ensemble Theatre and will encourage African-American women to fight breast cancer through taking care of their breast health. In 2017, breast cancer nonprofit The Rose provided services including mammograms, ultrasounds and biopsies to 5,552 African-American women, according to Chris Noble, director of corporate and business relations. Of those, she said said 733 were uninsured, and 62 learned received a breast cancer diagnosis and may not have received care otherwise. Noble and Kim Roxie, owner and CEO of Lamik Beauty, worked together to start The Rose Takes Center Stage event five years ago. The event was previously called The Rose at The Ensemble. Roxie got involved with The Rose when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at a mobile unit that came to her church. Roxies mother passed away from the disease in October 2014, but Roxie doubts they would have gotten to spend as much time together if not for The Rose. Now, she said helping other African-American women get breast health services is part of her mothers legacy. The Rose has given me an avenue to save other women's lives, she said. Its important to me that I can create something positive out of losing my mother, so that she didnt die in vain. Instead, I can use what we learned together to change outcomes. Noble said African-American women across the nation get diagnosed with breast cancer 45 percent more than other groups, and in Houston, that number jumps to 60 percent. A few factors are thought to be behind more African-American women dying from breast cancer. First, according to the American Cancer Society, financial barriers to detection and screening services and cancer treatment options play a large role. Another study funded by the National Institutes of Health showed another cause is that African-American women have higher breast density than Caucasian women, making visual detection of cancer more difficult. Also, genetics may play a role: studies by the National Cancer Institute and American Cancer Society reveal that younger African-American women are more likely to have aggressive triple negative tumors, which do not respond as well to standard treatments, producing poorer survival rates. Roxie said while African-American women are busy, they need to make their own health a priority. The to-do list for an African-American woman is long on a daily basis, yet they cant do any of those tasks to the best of their ability if their own health isnt at the top of that list, she said. Thats especially true considering the startling statistics on black women and their risk of earlier and more aggressive breast cancer. The Rose Takes Center Stage will feature a reception, refreshments, door prizes and a production of the play Da Kink in My Hair. Da Kink in My Hair is a humorous and poignant play set in a Caribbean hair salon. It is told with drumming, singing and dance as it explores the stories of eight African-American women, Roxie said. Both our event and this play seek to give the stories of African-American women a voice, creating insight into their experience, joy, frustration, loss and love. Noble said the event is important because it brings attention to an important part of African-American womens health and will also raise money to help patients get the care they need. It not only raises funds for mammograms, but sheds light on the terrible statistics regarding survival and early disease development for African-American women, Noble said. Put simply: more are made aware, more lives are saved, and new friends are made in the process. The Rose Takes Center Stage will be held 1:30-5 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 7, at The Ensemble Theatre, 3535 S. Main St. For more information or tickets, visit www.therose.org/event/the-rose-takes-center-stage. For further questions, email cnoble@therose.org. To learn more about The Rose and its services, visit www.therose.org. tracy.maness@hcnonline.com The amount of vacant office space across Houston dipped in the third quarter, ending a 14-quarter streak of rising vacancies in a market still struggling to recover from the energy slump. Office space was 24.2 percent vacant areawide at the end of September, down from 24.5 percent in the previous quarter and 22.8 percent a year earlier, commercial real estate firm JLL said in a new quarterly report. Leasing activity is picking up in parts of town beset with high sublease inventories left by oil and gas companies that emptied out millions of square feet of office space after the downturn began in 2014. Big-deal activity pretty much went away, Russell Hodges, senior vice president with JLLs agency leasing group, said. In west Houstons Energy Corridor, one of the hardest hit office markets, companies are again shopping for space, said Hodges, citing several new leases of at least 100,000 square feet each that are likely to close soon. Even if they dont, its a good indicator of the activity thats out there, he said. I think part of it has to do with more confidence in energy. Despite the improving factors, Houston landlords are still doling out concessions, and tenants generally have the upper hand when it comes to negotiating leases. Many more quarters of sustained growth are necessary before the market returns to a more balanced state, according to the JLL report. The company said it expects market conditions to remain favorable for tenants well into 2019, at least. Until the most recent quarter, the office vacancy had been rising each quarter since late 2014 when the rate was 13.4 percent. The drop in vacancy in the third quarter stemmed from ConocoPhillips moving into its new 600,000-square-foot Houston headquarters at Energy Center 4 on the west side. Despite the still-high overall rate, space is at more of a premium in some submarkets. The Woodlands, for example, has a vacancy rate of 14.8 percent, according to the Houston office of NAI Partners, another commercial real estate firm. In a sign of confidence, The Howard Hughes Corp. recently purchased two vacant office buildings The Woodlands for $53 million. The 4- and 6-story buildings totaling 257,025 square feet of space came with additional land for the future development of another office building. The ability to purchase these buildings below replacement cost provides us with instant Class-A inventory at a lower cost, at a time when we are seeing significant demand for space, Grant Herlitz, president of Dallas-based The Howard Hughes Corp., said last month in a statement. Also in the third quarter, Hines broke ground on a new office tower at the site of the former Houston Chronicle building. The property, which will add more than 1 million square feet to the central core, has been more than 30 percent preleased to Vinson & Elkins and Hines. In another positive sign, sublease space fell by more than 10 percent to 8.7 million square feet. nancy.sarnoff@chron.com twitter.com/nsarnoff The U.S. trade war was top-of-mind Wednesday as shipping companies and their suppliers gathered for the annual Breakbulk Americas conference in Houston. My slides are not very complicated, but I think the situation is, Kathy Canaan, global director of trade compliance for Fluor, said during one presentation. What were going through is unprecedented. Her audience included people from every aspect of the global breakbulk supply chain. This cargo, big business in Houston, is generally too large or bulky to be transported in shipping containers. It includes pipe, oilfield equipment and machinery. More than 5,500 people and 325 exhibitors attended the three-day event continuing through Thursday at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Most everybody here in this room today is on the front line of trade, said Alex Strogen, chief commercial officer for the Port of Vancouver USA. On HoustonChronicle.com: Reworked Nafta deal brings relief to Texas businesses As such, Breakbulk Americas had a packed audience for its session on navigating the changing trade landscape. Canaan said the new trade policies are undermining the industrys efforts to be better, faster and cheaper. Economic sanctions raise questions about where companies can do business, who they can partner with and what kind of activities they can undertake. And its increasing the cost of modularizing in the industry. Modularizing is when a company builds a facility in separate sections and then transports those sections to the jobsite for assembly. Some modules for large industrial projects are being fabricated overseas, Canaan said, and the number of modules affected by tariffs grows with each new tariff announcement. Its getting more expensive to import them into the U.S. I dont know that everybody understands the complexity, she said, of trying to understand the impact every time a new tariff rolls out. Steel tariffs, in particular, have a disproportionate impact on the maritime sector, said John Foster, chairman of the American Institute for International Steel. There are 10 times as many jobs in the maritime side of the steel supply chain than there are in the entire (U.S.) steel production industry, he said. Foster said the tariffs and quotas would reduce U.S. steel imports to some 18 million to 20 million tons a year, down from 30 million tons. Since 75 percent of that comes aboard ships, the tariffs could have a significant impact on the nations ports and dock workers. The American Institute for International Steel on June 27 filed a complaint in the U.S. Court of International Trade requesting an injunction against Section 232 tariffs and quotas. The association argued that its unconstitutional for Congress to give such broad authority to the president on critical trade matters without any clear, guiding principles or the opportunity for judicial review. The association also filed a motion, which was granted two weeks ago, to receive a three-judge panel rather than the typical one judge. Having three judges allows the association to appeal directly to the U.S. Supreme Court rather than going through the typical appellate process, Foster said. On HoustonChronicle.com: Texas oil producers fight steel tariffs, quotas A hearing date has not yet been set, but hes hoping for a hearing by the end of this year and a ruling in the first quarter of 2019. Were not fooling around when it comes to our supply chain partners jobs, Foster said. Capt. Bill Schubert, president of the Pinehurst-based International Trade and Transportation company, discussed a topic thats not been as prolific in recent headlines: the U.S. Export-Import Bank. The Export-Import Bank provides financing to foreign companies or governments that want to purchase U.S. goods or services. If another country wants to build a nuclear power plant, for instance, they can get financing from the Export-Import Bank to buy U.S. technology for that power plant. Schubert, who helps U.S. companies compete for projects overseas, said the bank has been handcuffed the past few years. A Senate vote required to confirm four people to the banks board is currently on hold. Without at least three board members, the bank is limited to giving loans of $10 million or less. There are some $50 billion worth of pending transactions that have gone through the loan application process but cant be approved without the three board members, Schubert said. If the board members arent approved soon, Schubert worries the loan applications will be canceled and refiled at another countrys export credit agency, which means those supply chains would move overseas. We need to get this bank up and operating as soon as possible, or were going to lose, he said. Everybodys going to lose. andrea.leinfelder@chron.com twitter.com/andrearumbaugh 3 1 of 3 Johnson Development Corp. Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Johnson Development Corp. Show More Show Less 3 of 3 Sam Houston State University is expected to break ground on its proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine in Conroe's Grand Central Park community by year end, Johnson Development Corp. announced. The project consists of a five-story 216,000 square foot building on 7.3 acres on Interstate 45 just south of South Loop 336. Phase one of the building will be 108,000 square feet with surface parking. An additional 108,000 square feet would replace some of the parking during the second phase. Mattress Firm is planning to file for bankruptcy as early as this week, Reuters reported, a move that would likely result in store closures and operational restructuring as the company works to boost lagging sales. The filing would cap off a tumultuous two years for Mattress Firm, which has struggled since its 2016 acquisition by South African retail conglomerate Steinhoff International. The company paid $3.8 billion to acquire the Houston-based mattress chain, which had quickly grown to become the country's largest in the years before the deal. Mattress Firm did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Steinhoff late last year became embroiled in an accounting scandal that called into question the value of more than $7 billion in assets. The company has been working to restructure its debt and regain investor confidence amid an ongoing investigation into its finances. Steinhoff said in a presentation last week that Mattress Firm's performance in 2017 and 2018 "reflects the requirement for a turnaround plan." It noted that the company has too many stores in certain markets following a series of rapid acquisitions that gave it more than 3,400 locations nationwide. RELATED: Mattress Firm CEO to step down Former Mattress Firm CEO and president Ken Murphy stepped down earlier this year after two years at the helm. Steve Stagner, who served as the company's CEO from 2010 to 2016, resumed that role in March. Steinhoff said that Mattress Firm's leadership is assessing means of securing funding to needed to carry out a turnaround plan to improve "financial accountability," advertising and merchandising. It noted the need to boost same-store sales by "optimizing" its store base by closing underperforming locations and perhaps opening new ones in cities such as Los Angeles and Detroit. Mattress Firm, which now has about 3,300 stores, for years borrowed heavily to buy up dozens of competitors. Its $3.8 billion purchase price included more than $1 billion in debt. RELATED: Mattress Firm's parent company faces accounting investigation The company's sales had been falling at the time of the Steinhoff acquisition, a trend that continued under new leadership. Steinhoff said in the presentation that quarterly same-store sales in April, May and June turned positive for the first time in months. Mattress Firm faced an additional challenge shortly after the acquisition, when it severed ties with Tempur Sealy, its largest supplier. It then crafted a five-year partnership with Serta Simmons, the nation's largest mattress maker. Tempur Sealy's stock rose 10 percent in Wednesday morning trading on news of Mattress Firm's potential bankruptcy filing. A Houston man has been sentenced to life in prison for his role in a long-running fraud scheme that involved the attempted murder in 2015 of a district court judge in Travis County . Chimene Onyeri, of the Alief area, was convicted this year of federal charges involving fraud and racketeering, aggravated identity theft and witness tampering in the attempted murder of judge Julie Kocurek. Federal prosecutors said that between 2012 and 2015, Onyeri conspired with two others -- Marcellus Burgin of Cypress and Rasul Scott of Louisiana -- to carry out fraudulent schemes, including converting stolen debit card numbers obtained from skimming devices into cash, in Texas and Louisiana. The schemes also involved bribery of a public official, money laundering and attempted murder. RELATED: Third suspect arrested in connection with attempted murder of Austin judge Onyeri targeted Kocurek when his criminal enterprise was threatened, prosecutors said. He was scheduled to appear before Kocurek in Austin, where she would decide whether to revoke his probation in a fraud case. Believing that she was going to sentence him to prison, he shot her on Nov. 5, 2015, while she was in her car outside of her home in Austin, prosecutors said. Kocurek sustained serious injury from multiple gunshot wounds and shrapnel. "I have watched Judge Kocurek and her family handle this ordeal with courage and grace," Travis County District Attorney Margaret Moore said in a statement. "At long last, they see justice." In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Lee Yeakel on Tuesday ordered Onyeri to pay nearly $178,400 in restitution. The crime ring began about 2008, according to Louisiana prosecutors. During the crime spree, the group was accused of using fraudulent gift cards embedded with stolen credit card numbers to purchase products from the Apple stores in the Galleria, Sugar Land and Willowbrook malls. At the time of Kocurek's shooting, Onyeri was charged with murder in the death of Jacobi Alexander at an apartment complex in Alief earlier that year. Harris County prosecutors dismissed the murder charge in May 2016 , clearing the way for Onyeri to face the other charges. Dear Abby: I have been in a strong relationship with my girlfriend for five years. We are very much in love. I have told her I dont want to get married and have kids until I have attained some level of success. She understands my desire to be a good provider, but shes 29 and worried about her biological clock if she waits much longer. I work full time, take night classes, and Im trying to put myself on a promising career path. Is my request unreasonable? We want it to work, but being able to provide at least a middle-class lifestyle is very important to me. Ambitious Guy in San Diego Dear Ambitious: It would be wonderful if there was a blueprint for success in life and marriage, but too often, life intervenes. You and your girlfriend should have a serious discussion about the future because you both have to be comfortable with what happens next. If she wants to start a family right away and you feel you cant afford it, neither of you will be happy. If shes willing to wait another few years to start a family (her biological clock should still be ticking, or she could freeze her eggs), then its important you agree about what needs to be in place financially in order for that to happen. Dear Abby: My parents like to visit us and bring along their little dog, Truffle. We are happy to have them and their dog; however, we have an issue. My parents allow Truffle on the furniture. We have a dog and love her to pieces but feel that furniture is for humans. Because our family likes to relax by sprawling on the couch at times, its not as pleasant once a pet has been lying there. My husband has voiced this concern but has been ignored. We are going to visit my parents soon, and Im wondering how to handle this. We love everyone and dont want to hurt their feelings. I appreciate your advice. Off the Couch in Colorado Dear Off the Couch: If you and your husband prefer that animals stay off the furniture in your home, thats your privilege. In your home, your rules should be respected. If your parents choose to ignore your request, they should stay in a pet-friendly hotel or leave Truffle at home. However, when you visit in their home, their rules should apply. And if your husband doesnt want to sit or lie on their couch because of the animal hair or the odor, he should sit on a dining chair that can be wiped down, take a washable cover to throw on the couch or stay home. Dear Abby: Ive had an online friend for three years. We met on a dating/flirt app in high school and recently met in person. We arent currently dating, but its inevitable at this point. Hes funny, down-to-earth and good-looking as hell! What he doesnt know is that prior to meeting him, I had a relationship with a woman, and I think Im in love with her. I broke things off with her, but now I miss her more and more. I want to reach out to her, but I want him and me to get closer as well. What should I do? Girl with Options in Maine Dear G.W.O.: What you should do is be honest with both of them and let the scenario play out naturally. DearAbby.com Dear Abby P.O. Box 69440 Los Angeles, CA 90069 Andrews McMeel Syndication AUSTIN Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott was supposed to settle a dispute over whether public schools must offer a course in Biblical study, but his opinion Thursday created more confusion. Yes, schools are required to offer a course in the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) and the New Testament Bible, said Free Market Foundation officials after reading Abbott's opinion. No, they aren't required, responded the Texas Freedom Network. And the Texas Education Agency, which requested the attorney general's opinion, isn't quite sure what it means. "We're having our lawyers review the ruling and will dutifully follow what it says. We're still trying to figure out what it says," agency spokeswoman Debbie Ratcliffe said. Education Commissioner Robert Scott asked Abbott in March for a ruling on whether schools were required to offer the so-called "Bible bill" course if at least 15 students signed up for it. Some legislative leaders insisted that schools "may" offer the Bible course if enough students requested it, but others contended that schools were obligated to offer the class if at least 15 students wanted it. Lawmakers approved the "Bible bill" last year. Abbott's ruling means public schools are not required to offer courses about the Bible, said Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller. The Texas Freedom Network promotes religious freedom and individual liberties. "Local school boards can now breathe a sigh of relief," Miller said. "The State Board of Education threw them under the bus last month by refusing to adopt the clear, specific standards schools need to give the Bible the respect it deserves and help them stay out of court. Now, schools won't be required to maneuver through a legal minefield without a map." After reading Abbott's opinion, however, Jonathan Saenz of the Free Market Foundation said it was clear "Texas schools are required to have some type of instruction in the Bible, which is the Hebrew Scriptures and New Testament." "Schools are not required to offer a particular type of course in order to meet the requirement of having some type of instruction in the Bible, but they have to offer something," Saenz said. The Free Market Foundation promotes families, churches and freedom. Abbott's office referred inquires to the last sentence in the opinion summary: "If a school district or charter school chooses to offer a course authorized by section 28.011 and fewer than fifteen students at a campus register to enroll in the course, the district or charter school is not required to provide the course at that campus for that semester, but that does not mean that the school is not required to comply with the curriculum requirements in subsection 28.002 (a)(2)." gscharrer@express-news.net BRIDGEPORT The Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgeport has appointed a former state judge to review claims diocese officials covered up priests sexual abuse of children for decades. Bishop Frank J. Caggiano announced Wednesday that retired Superior Court Judge Robert L. Holzberg, who is a partner in the law firm of Pullman and Comley of Hartford and Bridgeport, will serve as counsel and lead investigator for the Clerical Sexual Abuse Accountability Investigation being conducted for the diocese. The diocese has acknowledged there is credible evidence that more than 25 priests sexually abused dozens of children since the 1960s. Holzbergs investigation will conduct a comprehensive analysis and review of claims of clerical sexual abuse of minors, the dioceses knowledge of such abuse and its response to allegations and information presented to it concerning the alleged clergy abuse, the diocese said in a statement. Holzberg will have complete and unrestricted access to all diocesan files, records and archives dating from 1953, when the diocese was founded, to the present, and the opportunity to interview diocesan clergy and administrators with information relevant to his inquiry, the statement said. Work on the investigation will begin immediately and is expected to be completed by Spring 2019. Holzberg, who is not Catholic, will direct a team of attorneys and investigators. The diocese said the results of the investigation will be presented in a public report that will address sexual abuse of minors by clergy in the Diocese of Bridgeport, along with the response of church leadership to that abuse. The report will also contain recommendations to the bishop resulting from the review. I am committed to supervising a comprehensive, impartial and transparent investigation into clergy sexual abuse of minors and the dioceses response to that abuse over the past 65 years, Holzberg said in a statement. As a condition of taking on this assignment, I met with and obtained the commitment of Bishop Caggiano that I will have full and unlimited access to all materials ... and that I will have full discretion to conduct this investigation as I deem appropriate. Bishop Caggiano pledged his full cooperation and commitment to this important initiative. But not everyone was optimistic about the announcement. We simply don't trust Bishop Frank J. Caggiano to give anyone complete and unrestricted access to his abuse and cover up files, said David Clohessy, founder of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests. For decades, bishops have decided who gets to know what about predator priests. Those days are over. If kids are to be safer, it's crucial that police, prosecutors and the public get this information, not one guy hand-picked by the church officials who have been hiding these crimes for ages. The diocese lists 26 priests on its website who have credibly been accused of sexual abuse. Since the 1960s, according to the diocese's own records turned over to the courts, abuse allegations against priests was hidden and the priests accused of abuse were moved from parish to parish. Bishop Walter Curtis hid priest abuse in the 1970s and his predecessor, Bishop Edward Egan, who later became New York's cardinal, continued the practice into the early 1990s, the records show. Since 1993, the Tremont law firm has represented dozens of abuse victims in lawsuits against the diocese resulting in more than $35 million in settlements. My hope is that these measures will begin to heal the wounds that we feel and address the legitimate desire for real change that restores confidence in every level of leadership, Caggiano said. The bishop also said he will be presenting a financial report on settlement amounts for past claims of clergy sexual abuse of minors from the establishment of the diocese. The report will include sources from which funds were obtained to settle claims and provide an account of the financial support currently given to any priest who has been accused of sexual abuse of a minor and who is currently on administrative leave or has been defrocked or gave up the priesthood. The report will be released Oct. 31. After the National Weather Service completed preliminary surveys of the area, it confirmed that a tornado touched down in New Canaan on Tuesday and made its way into Norwalk. The tornado lasted from 5:29 p.m. to 5:41 p.m., NWS said, with estimated wind speeds reaching 100 mph. The tornado followed a path of nearly 4 miles and was about 100-yards wide. The tornado began near the intersection of Weed Street and Marshall Ridge Road in New Canaan, and continued southeast for almost 4 miles, lifting at the intersection of Scribner Avenue and Gillies Lane in Norwalk, NWS said. Damage was primarily to trees and cars. Tornadoes were also confirmed by the NWS to have touched down in Rockland and Westchester counties, and in Ronkonkoma on Long Island. The NWS issued a tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings for Fairfield County late Tuesday afternoon. The storm was over New Canaan around 5:28 p.m., moving east at 35 mph. The storm hit Norwalk around 5:35 p.m. and Westport five minutes later. The strong winds knocked down trees, branches and utility lines. The northbound Merritt Parkway was closed between Exits 37 and 38 in New Canaan and Norwalk because of of debris in the roadway. State police said a downed tree across both travel lanes. The closure caused more than eight miles of traffic congestion between Exits 31 in Greenwich and 38 in Norwalk. On Wednesday, Little Fox Lane in Norwalk is closed as employees from the Department of Public Works clear a tree most likely downed by lightning. A couple of blocks away, the northbound lane of Marvin Ridge Road is closed at the Merritt Parkway overpass near the New Canaan line. The storm also brought heavy rain. The National Weather Service reported that Fairfield received 3.95 inches of rain, the highest in the state. Other reports included 3.75 inches in Stamford, 3.65 inches in Darien, 3.57 inches in Norwalk, 3.54 inches in New Canaan, 3.30 inches in Westport 3.50 inches in Fairfield, 2.12 in Milford, 1.90 in Newtown, 1.75 in Bethel, 1.73 in Ridgefield, 1.55 in Madison, 1.50 in Trumbull, 1.40 in Seymour and 1.30 inches in Naugatuck. For other rainfall totals, click here Westchester County airport, near Greenwich, had a peak wind gust of 29 mph just before 7 p.m. A key indicator the survey team will be looking for is the direction that trees uprooted or knocked down by the wind came to rest. Downed trees converging into a middle point, or trees criss-crossing each other, are indicators of a tornado, said NWS meteorologist Bill Goodman. But when you find trees that are more fanned out from the center, it indicates a downburst. Sometimes its obvious and sometimes its not. The survey team traveled to Fairfield and New Haven counties after three tornadoes touched down on May 15. After that survey, the NWS confirmed that one tornado touched down in Southbury and Oxford. Maximum winds of more than 100 mph cut a 4.5-mile path between the two towns, uprooting trees, knocking down power lines, closing roads and damaging homes. Another tornado with maximum winds of more than 110 mph touched down for 9.5 miles between Beacon Falls and Hamden, causing similar damage, according to the National Weather Service. The team determined that the extensive damage in Brookfield that day was most likely caused by an intense downdraft of air known as a macroburst. The May 5 storms were part of an intense system that also spawned three tornadoes just over the Connecticut border in New York state. The weather service confirmed that three tornadoes had touched down, along with a microburst and a macroburst. A tornado with maximum winds of 110 mph briefly touched down in Kent, N.Y., the service said, and another with maximum winds of 100 mph touched down in Patterson. A third with maximum winds of 85 mph touched down in Newburgh. A macroburst with winds up to 90 mph struck an area about three miles wide and four miles long in the Cherry Hill area near Kent, N.Y., and a microburst with 80-mph winds knocked down trees near North Salem. In the three weeks since former Conroe priest Manuel La Rosa-Lopez was arrested for allegedly molesting two teenagers, dozens of people have called authorities to report tips and lodge a new round of accusations against the clergyman. Weve had 20 or 30 people come forward with information of varying degrees in reference to La Rosa-Lopez, Montgomery County Assistant District Attorney Tyler Dunman said Tuesday. Some of that includes additional leads on other allegations, some of it includes additional information relative to the charges weve already filed, Dunman said. The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston did not comment on whether they received more than the two allegations previously reported against La Rosa-Lopez other than to say they are cooperating with law enforcement and fully committed to addressing these issues publicly at the appropriate time. INVESTIGATION: Conroe church raided after ex-priest sex abuse arrest La Rosa-Lopez is slated to return to court in Montgomery County on Oct. 9. The outpouring of leads comes as Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests activists repeated their call for the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston to reach out to parishes where La Rosa-Lopez worked and for the state to conduct a probe similar to Pennsylvanias sweeping grand jury report released in August. The group also demanded that the state set up a victims hotline to collect more claims of abuse. It is clear that institutions cannot police themselves and so we call on law enforcement to do it for them, according to SNAPs statement issued Tuesday. Ahead of the Pennsylvania report, the head of SNAPs Houston chapter began writing to Attorney General Ken Paxton asking for a similar probe. Is it not time for Texas to begin holding their local Catholic dioceses accountable; protecting the innocence of children and the sanctity of those already abused, wrote chapter leader Michael Norris, according to a copy of the Aug. 6 letter given to the Chronicle. Paxtons office responded on Aug. 31, about two weeks before La Rosa-Lopezs arrest, telling Norris that criminal allegations needed to be filed with local law enforcement first. 'FAILURE': Houston's Cardinal Daniel DiNardo criticized over handling of two abuse reports Any allegations of criminal activity should initially be reported to local law enforcement, wrote Rachel Rodriguez, who handles Paxtons constituent affairs. She added that local counties and district attorney can then assist their help. Emails show that Norris initially sought help from state Rep. Dan Huberty (R-Houston) in garnering a response from the Office of the Attorney General. When Paxtons office finally replied, the lawmaker asked that Norris request be given a second look. Our office has not received any further communications on the issue, Casey Christman, Hubertys chief-of-staff, said in an email to the Chronicle. Despite the recent tips, Dunman said its difficult for parishioners to come forward because its crippling within the church. Four counts of indecency with a child were lodged against La Rosa-Lopez in September and stem from incidents that took place from 1998 to 2001. He faces up to 20 years in prison on each count if convicted. The priest has been out on a $375,000 bail since Sept. 12 and is being housed at the Archdiocese-operated St. Dominic Village along Holcombe Boulevard. As part of his release conditions, Dunman said that La Rosa-Lopez had to surrender his passport, attach a GPS monitor to his ankle, was issued a curfew, and is prohibited to have any contact with the alleged victims or any under the age of 17. Since his arrest, authorities have raided Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Shalom Center in search of evidence. A man came forward late last month to report that the priest, then at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Conroe, sexually abused him from 1998 to 2000. Another victim, a woman, said she reported to law enforcement that she was abused in 2000 as a teen while attending school at the same church. The victim detailed what she believed was a romantic relationship with the priest in a diary discovered by her father, who then reported the matter to church The result, according to an arrest warrant, is that the Archdiocese transferred La Rosa-Lopez away from the church and the girls family moved from Conroe. Courtesy of North Haven PD NORTH HAVEN A 37-year-old man was charged with second-degree assault early this morning after allegedly beating up a woman in the front yard of a local home. Scott Macri was also charged with risk of injury to a minor, criminal mischief and breach of peace, North Haven police said in a Facebook post. 3 1 of 3 Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center Show More Show Less 3 of 3 Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center will open the first of several planned Houston wellness center locations early next year in CityCentre. The company offers laser treatments, facial treatments, hormone replacement, weight loss, injectables, coolsculpting, body contouring, hair restoration and other services. Saudi Arabia has increased crude production significantly to a near-record level amid intense pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to reduce prices. OPECs largest producer is currently pumping about 10.7 million barrels a day, Energy Minister Khalid Al-Falih told reporters in Moscow on Wednesday. Thats just shy of the record set in November 2016, before the kingdom and allies including Russia agreed to cut production to boost prices. RELATED: Trump says Saudi king wouldn't last two weeks without U.S. help Were meeting every single demand for barrels, Al-Falih said. Weve increased production quite significantly. We just have to be responsive to demand because some would say the market is currently oversupplied, he said. Key Insights Saudi Arabia appears to be bowing again to pressure from Trump. Since the kingdom rebuffed his calls last month for a rapid production increase to offset the impact of sanctions on Iran, the president has amplified his rhetoric. At a rally in Mississippi on Tuesday, he said the Middle Eastern country wouldnt last two weeks without U.S. military protection. Al-Falih is trying to strike a delicate balance between appeasing Trump and not oversupplying the market just as the global economy shows signs of weakness due to the emerging markets crisis and U.S.-China trade war. The oil market has reacted anxiously to the lack of a clear signal that the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies would fill the gap left by Iran. Since the groups September meeting in Algiers, Brent crude has jumped $6 to about $85 a barrel, a four-year high. At the Russian Energy Week conference in Moscow on Wednesday, Al-Falih has the opportunity to recalibrate this message, if he wishes. Market Reaction Crude futures fell, dropping 12 cents to $84.68 a barrel in London and 7 cents to $75.16 in New York. 2018 Bloomberg L.P. President Donald Trump said the king of Saudi Arabia may not last two weeks without U.S. support, escalating pressure on one of his closest Arab allies to curb rising oil prices and pay for military protection. How about our military deals where we protect rich nations that we dont get reimbursed? Trump told a campaign rally in the U.S. state of Mississippi on Tuesday night. I love the king, King Salman, but I said, King, were protecting you. You might not be there for two weeks without us. You have to pay for your military, you have to pay." Deer Park Police Dept. A Cypress-Fairbanks ISD police officer resigned Tuesday as allegations surfaced that he allegedly raped a missing 12-year-old Deer Park girl he met on the Meet Me dating app. Authorities began looking for the girl after she reported as missing from her Deer Park home and believed to be in extreme danger. She was found about six hours later. Medicare open enrollment begins Oct. 15 Hi Toni: I attended one of your seminars and now I need help with my Medicare issue. I am 65 almost 66, still working and covered entirely by my employers group health HSA plan. Approximately $5,000 is contributed to my family qualified tax-deductible HSA account for medical expenses. When I went to the SS office to tell them this, they advised me to apply for Medicare Part A (hospital) although I really did not need it. Now I find out that since my insurance is an HSA, signing up for Part A has disqualified me for any contribution to the HSA plan. I have a few questions: 1) Does having Part A really disqualify me from contributing to my HSA Plan? 2) Should I go to the SS office and stop Medicare Part A? Thanks, Samuel from Carlsbad, New Mexico Samuel: The rule about Medicare Part A and making contribution to an HSA is discussed thoroughly on page 19 of the new 2019 Medicare & You handbook . It states, You cant contribute to your HSA once your Medicare coverage begins. The handbook also states in the last paragraph, To avoid a tax penalty, you should stop contributing to your HSA at least 6 months before you apply for Medicare. Please review this information; very important: Below are the answers to your questions: 1. Thats correct! Enrolling in Medicare Part A will disqualify you from contributing the $5,000 to your HSA. Always talk with your HR department and contact your insurance company when you are contemplating what to do with your Medicare coverage if your actions are different from the norm or you can always contact a Toni Says Medicare adviser at info@tonisays.com and together we can explore your Medicare options. 2. Question No. 2 about stopping your Medicare Part A. I would call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 explain to the agent how you were misinformed since you have been enrolled and funded your HSA before you turned 65 and now you cannot contribute to the plan. Ask if you can appeal what was advised to you and you want to schedule an appointment with your local Social Security office. For those who need to delay Medicare Part A due to still working full time with company health insurance and want to continue making contributions to their HSA can do so by simply NOT enrolling in Medicare Part A after turning 65. When you and your spouse retire later past 65, when no longer working full-time with company health insurance, then you can apply for Medicare Parts A and B with a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). The information regarding applying during a Medicare SEP is available online at the new American Baby Boomer Society website that contains Medicare courses which help to answer other Medicare questions or Medicare topics at www.abbs4u.com. Houston Area October Medicare/LTC Workshops Champion Forest: Thursday, Oct. 4, Confused about Medicare/LTC Workshop at: Champion Forest Baptist Church, Multipurpose building from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at 15555 Stuebner Airline, Houston 77069. West Houston: Thursday, Oct. 18, Medicare/Long Term Care Workshop at Spring Creek BBQ-Katy in the Banquet Room (dinner not provided) from 6-8 p.m. at 21000 Katy Freeway, Katy, 77449. RSVP at 832-519-8664. Facebook Live Event Join Toni as a guest speaker on Kathryn Watsons Life After 50 Facebook Live on Monday, Oct. 15, at 11 a.m. CST which is Medicares Open Enrollment start date by visiting online at https://facebook.com/findhoustonseniorcare. Toni King, the author of Medicare Survival Guide Advanced, is offering a Medicare Open Enrollment book package special at www.tonisays.com. For information, email info@tonisays.com or call 832-519-8664. When Zack Weeks and a few of his neighbors decided to fill the three potholes on his street in Dickinson last Sunday, he was a little worried that they might get into trouble. "There were a lot of people saying things like, 'You can't do that,' or that it's illegal," Weeks said. "It got us thinking, has anybody actually done this and found out if the I don't know, pothole police are going to stop you?" Turns out no. Weeks said after moving forward with the potholes on his own street, he later found out there is no city ordinance against residents doing the work themselves. After the community response he and his neighbors received, he said he hopes to eventually fill every pothole in the city. "A lot of the roads are in poor condition. Especially with the recent rains, large individual potholes have opened up, and that's more what's got people frustrated," Weeks said. "Even just me going out there with a couple bags of patch really makes people happy." HOUSTON HEROES: Nominate your hero for the Chronicle's Houston Gives section After watching how-to Youtube videos and a quick trip to Home Depot, Weeks and his neighbors filled three potholes in less than 30 minutes. He said the material cost him about $155. "We were working really fast because we were just trying to get out of the road," Weeks said. "Every single person that drove by, once they figured out what we were doing, they either stopped and thanked us or gave us a thumbs up or wanted to know what more they could do to help. And that's what really motivated us, we've got to do something bigger this weekend." Weeks said this weekend he plans on fixing the potholes at the intersection to his neighborhood, Kansas Avenue and 30th Street. "Whatever we have left we are just going to fill what we can until we run out," Weeks said. "I guess we are gonna get to about 10 or 15 [potholes filled.]" Weeks is also treating the weekend as a trial run for the material he plans on using. His first three potholes were filled with material he bought himself at Home Depot; he is hopeful the one-ton delivery of asphalt patch material from a local distributor he has scheduled to arrive Friday will perform well. RAIN, RAIN, GO AWAY: Historic rainfall in Texas floods Galveston and San Antonio "We found something a lot cheaper, so I want to make sure it actually lasts before we buy like 10 tons to fix every hole in the city." Weeks said depending on this weekend, he may get together a community group and pool money to pay for pothole repairs throughout the city. "If these potholes were caught quicker, somehow being reported or being fixed faster I don't think they would become the issue that they do," Weeks said. "They open up after the pothole has been there for a month or two, then they crater into the ground, [and] it breaks into the base of the road." Weeks stressed his end goal is not to ask for money from residents or berate the city, though. He said as a city that was devastated by Hurricane Harvey more than a year ago, many people, including himself, are still recovering. BETTER STREETS: $14 million in roadway improvements planned for Huffman, Crosby areas "I don't want to collect money from people. Most everybody has had their houses flooded, they do pay their taxes and they are right, this is the city's job, but we are just trying to help the city," he said. Weeks credits the community's response to his neighbors' call to action a "Harvey confidence" most Dickinson residents share. "A lot of people a year and a half ago didn't know how to do a lot things and we all had to figure it out," Weeks said. "I think it's been for the best; people learned how to fix and work on a lot of their own stuff and I think that's coming out of the community now." Rebecca Hennes covers community news. Read her on the breaking news site chron.com and the subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com. | Follow her on Twitter: @beccaghennes. Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message. Montgomery County students in kindergarten through eighth grade from 44 schools in Montgomery County designed and submitted bookmark size art for the 2017 Conflict Resolution Day Bookmark Art Contest. The artwork depicts creative ways to resolve conflicts peacefully and/or say no to bullies. The Conroe Art League with assistance from two of their artists, Alice Runkle and Jamie Hatfield, produced 3D collages using the 1,927 bookmarks. The 3D Bookmark Collages will be displayed at The Woodlands Arts Council Spotlight on the Arts Gallery in The Woodlands Mall (second floor near the Food Court) on Saturday, Oct. 6, at 10 a.m. All Montgomery County students, teachers and family members of contest participants are invited to attend and witness the unveiling of the Student Collaborative Project. Light refreshments will be served for the unveiling. One of the 3D collages will remain at The WAC Spotlight on the Arts Gallery for at least the next six months and the second collage will be displayed in another public setting to be announced at the unveiling. A few Conroe firefighters and their families have revived The House of Fear Haunted House in an effort that will support a foundations means to give back to the community, including by helping buy brand new coats for kids this winter. The funds raised by the haunted house will benefit the event host, the Conroe Professional Firefighters Foundation, which is a new 501c3 nonprofit organization that started this year under the Conroe Professional Firefighters Association umbrella. The firefighters have built-out props and walls to transform 2,500 square feet of space into about a 10-minute frightening experience at the Outlets at Conroe, located at 1111 League Line Road No. 164. The family-friendly haunted house will run every Friday and Saturday this month from 6 p.m. to midnight through Halloween night. The cost is $10 online and $12 at the door of the charity event. Its ran by firefighters and their families so it is a safe space for people to come, bring their kids and feel comfortable that it is going to be appropriate and not too gory or gruesome, Conroe Professional Firefighters Association President and Conroe Fire Department Lt. Lloyd Sandefer said. Sandefer said a similar haunted house was hosted by the association in the past in downtown Conroe. Some who were involved in the past recalled the event as well received by the community and recommended bringing it back because the families and community enjoyed it so much, he said. While it is family-friendly, he said those who dare to enter can still expect to get scared. Theres really nothing like that in Conroe for families to bring their kids and teenagers to go through a little spooky house, he said. Theres monsters, theres scary clowns, theres loud scary noises, it is a pretty frightening experience This is also the first year that the Friends of Conroe will have a shuttle to pick up and drop off attendees at the Outlets of Conroe for its Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival, which is scheduled for Oct. 12-13 in downtown Conroe. Sandefer invites people returning to their vehicles from the festival to consider stopping by. Walk on over to the spook house and get scared, he laughed. While the firefighters prepare tricks, Sandefer hopes the funds raised by the haunted house will help make it possible to treat more local students in need to brand new coats this winter through the foundation. He said the nonprofit foundation was started out of necessity for growth and the different charitable aspects the organization is involved in, including giving back to the community each year through Coats for Kids, Montgomery County Fair and Rodeo Junior Livestock Auction and the foundations new benevolence fund which goes toward its members in case of emergencies. We are about to start our Coats for Kids, Sandefer said. Winter is approaching, so we are going to try to do more schools this year than we have ever done before, said Sandefer describing how the coats are ordered specifically for each students whose name is written on the tag of the coat and delivered by a firetruck to the school. Last year, he said, about 120-130 coats were delivered to one school. This year, I hope to double that, Sandefer said counting on funds raised by events like the haunted house. mellsworth@hcnonline.com When you come for treatment at the Infusion Center of Houston Methodist Cancer Center at The Woodlands, youre not just another cancer patient, you become family to the team of doctors and nurses there. The Infusion Center offers a full range of services to treat all types of cancer including chemotherapy, radiation, iron infusion, hydration treatment and more. And with many of those treatments lasting months at a time and seeing those same patients daily and weekly, a strong bond develops between the patients and the staff there. This is one place where when you walk through the door youre not a patient youre family, said Dr. Priya Ramshesh, Houston Methodist The Woodlands Infusion Center Medical Director. All the staff are exceptional. We treat others the way we would want to be treated. And because the patient feels at ease, then their treatment becomes extremely doable. Lindsey Pimentel, nurse coordinator at the Infusion Center, said sometimes once a patient is diagnosed with cancer, thats all people see them as - a cancer patient. They appreciate that we get to know them as a person, not just as a diagnosis, she said. As the patients go through their prescribed treatment, the nurses and doctors get to know their likes and dislikes, their favorite music, their family and friends and more. Nurse Kim Gensler explained that each patient is an individual and their journey with cancer is an individual experience. She added that as they see these patients on such a regular basis, they become attached to them. The nurses and doctors said they not only get to know the patient but their family members and friends. In fact, theres one lady who is a bridge player and she and several of her friends play bridge for the duration of her hours long treatments. So when patients complete their course of treatment and before they ring the bell signifying their treatment is done, the staff wants to celebrate too with the patients they have come to know so well. Since the center opened in July 2017, they staff has come up with all kinds of unique ways to send their patients off in victory. Not only do they celebrate with boas, tiaras, and apple cider toasts, theyve held themed celebrations as their patients complete their treatment. One that stands out was for a fire chief who completed his treatment. Pimentel said to his co-workers he is a hero so they threw him a super hero-themed celebration. Hes the typical guy that everyone sees as the protector, Pimentel said. He doesnt want to talk about himself, he doesnt want the attention to be on him. Having this special celebration really broke down barriers and let him enjoy the fact that he finished his treatment. Another special celebration was for a patient who was a cowboy from his hat down to his boots. The staff dressed in Western attire and did a line dance for him as he completed his treatment. And its an uplifting experience for the staff as well as the patients. It helps the team stay positive even when not all the patients are going through a really positive time, said Whitney Arriaga, Cancer Center Director. According to Ramshesh, the celebrations are a victory for the nurses and doctors too. When you deal with a process like cancer, its so scary. So when we do these celebrations its a victory for them too, she said. It solidifies that positive energy which transmits to the patient. Pimentel said they recognize that life doesnt stop when cancer is diagnosed. We want them to know we recognize that and we want to celebrate them as an individual and the strength and courage that it took for them to go through what theyve been through, she said. The Houston Methodist Cancer Center at The Woodlands is at 17183 I-45 South, Ste 110, The Woodlands. See www.houstonmethodist.org/cancer/locations/woodlands for more on the Cancer Center and Infusion Center. In recognition of breast cancer awareness month in October, the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at The Woodlands is hosting a Positively Pink event at Big Sky Barn in Montgomery on Oct. 4. For more information visit houstonmethodist.org/events. A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit against Montgomery County that claimed Precinct 1 Judge Wayne Macks courtroom prayer by volunteer chaplains violated part of the First Amendment. The lawsuit was filed by the Freedom From Religion Foundation in March 2017. The judgment was filed Sept. 27. The FFRF does have the option to appeal the courts decision. The dismissal order came in response to the motion for judgment on the pleadings filed by Baker Botts and our office on behalf of the county under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 13, said Assistant County Attorney B. D. Griffin, noting Baker Botts joined the county in February pro bono to defend the suit. The basis of the motion to dismiss was that the Plaintiffs did not have standing (and the Court therefore did not have jurisdiction) because there was nothing that the Commissioners Court could do to alter Judges Macks practice due to the constitutional separation of powers between Judge Mack and Commissioners Court. PATRIOTISM AND CIVIL RIGHTS: Paxton takes a stand for Cy-Fair ISD in case of student who sat for pledge In January, Mack was dismissed from the suit after the plaintiffs with the FFRF clarified their intentions stating they were suing Mack in his official capacity as a justice of the peace. According to Griffin, by suing Mack in his official capacity, the plaintiffs effectively sue the county. We filed a motion to dismiss because of Mack's judicial immunity, said Hiram Sasser, deputy general counsel with First Liberty Institute, which represented Mack, in a previous Courier article. He was dismissed from the suit in a personal capacity. The main issue with this suit is whether it is under or not under the Supreme Court ruling in a previous case that an authority can order Mack to alter his policy on how he runs the courtroom. In the suit, two attorneys and another person who were in Mack's courtroom on official business claim they felt prejudiced by Mack during separate dockets in 2014. The Freedom from Religion Foundation believes the religious prayer practice Mack initiated in his court violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. However, one of the plaintiffs was dismissed because there was no standing. In his courtroom, Mack allows for voluntary chaplains to open ceremonies with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. The volunteer chaplaincy program includes leaders from multiple faiths, such as Christian, Buddhist, Hindu and Mormon religious leaders. Judge Mack is grateful that this portion of the litigation has come to an end, said Hiram Sasser, General Counsel to First Liberty. We dont know what FFRF plans to do next, but the best thing to do would be to just leave everyone in Montgomery County alone. In the meantime, we will continue to defend Judge Mack and his multi-faith chaplain program. cdominguez@hcnonline.com The city of Conroe scored a victory in its lawsuit against the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District after a district court judge found the district did not have the authority to require large groundwater users to reduce usage by 30 percent. Conroe filed a lawsuit against the LSGCD Aug. 27, 2015. Visiting 284th State District Judge Lamar McCorkle issued the ruling Sept. 18. The now invalid rule severely limited groundwater pumping throughout Montgomery County and forced large volume groundwater users to enter into costly Groundwater Reduction Plans to replace the lost groundwater with an alternative supply, said City Attorney Marcus Winberry. As a result, Conroe water customers have seen rates double and millions of dollars have been paid to the San Jacinto River Authority in its capacity as the operator of the GRP. Prosecuting this lawsuit against the Lone Star District has been part of the Conroe City Councils continuing effort to challenge the Lone Star Districts and SJRAs actions that have inflated water prices in Montgomery County. Officials with the LSGCD indicated Tuesday they would likely appeal the decision. While we were disappointed in the ruling, the judge was very clear at the hearing that this was a matter he believed would be decided by the appellate courts, not the trial court, said LSGCD Board President Rick Moffat. Lone Star has already succeeded in having the court of appeals overturn the first ruling from the trial court, and we are confident that this ruling will be overturned as well. Winberry said the city is prepared for an appeal, but wasnt sure what will happen next with a new board of directors to be seated in November. Conroe expects the current board of directors of the Lone Star District to continue to try to defend this rule by appealing to a higher court, but Conroe hopes the new Lone Star board that will be installed after the upcoming November 2018 election will drop the appeal and work toward a more sensible groundwater policy with Conroe and other cities in the county, Winberry said. In a separate decision, McCorkle denied a LSGCD request to recover attorney fees related to the courts prior dismissal of claims brought by the plaintiffs against the general manager and district board members in their official capacity. In 2009, the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District required all large-volume water users in Montgomery County to reduce groundwater usage by 30 percent of 2009 figures starting Jan. 1, 2016, as part of a long-term plan. In response to that, the San Jacinto River Authority created the Groundwater Reduction Plan and gathered a group of large-volume water users. The SJRA created a plan to run pipelines to Conroe and South Montgomery County, including The Woodlands, to pump surface water from Lake Conroe to provide a blend of groundwater and surface water. All large-volume users that entered the GRP pay fees to the SJRA for the $500 million construction project that ensured all those participating entities could use 100 percent groundwater without reducing consumption. That reduction has been absorbed by The Woodlands and Conroe, which now receive a blend of groundwater and Lake Conroe water to take on the 30 percent reduction for all GRP participants. The city of Conroe, along with 150 other entities, entered into a contract with the SJRA in 2010 to meet the 30 percent mandate. However, the city of Conroe filed the lawsuit against the LSGCD claiming the district was acting beyond its legislative authority by putting down unlawful limits on groundwater production. While the concern about water and the fees began more than a year ago, the issue came to a head in August 2016 when the City of Conroe approved a resolution refusing to pay the GRP fee increase to the SJRA. The SJRA board voted in June 2016 to raise its pumpage and surface-water fees by 18 cents per 1,000 gallons (7 percent) starting in September 2016. On Conroe's heels, the cities of Shenandoah and Magnolia passed resolutions opposing the SJRA's GRP fee increases and supporting Conroe's position. However, the City of Magnolia is paying the fee increase "under duress." Shenandoah is not part of the SJRA's GRP; it is part of a GRP agreement with the City of Panorama Village. However, last month, the Third Court of Appeals in Austin recently dismissed part of the San Jacinto River Authoritys lawsuit against the cities of Conroe and Magnolia that would have allowed a trial court to find the cities were in default of its Ground Water Reduction Plan contract for withholding a portion of fees associated with the GRP plan under the Expedited Declaratory Judgment Act. While the court dismissed the EDJA in the issue of the breach of contract, it did affirm SJRAs other declarations for trial including SJRAs authority to set rates pursuant to the GRP contracts, SJRA issued its rate orders in accordance with the GRP contract and that the SJRAs Fiscal Year 2017 rates, rate order and GRP contracts are legal and valid. SJRA filed suit in 2016 under the EDJA claiming that Conroe and Magnolias refusal to pay put SJRA at financial risk regarding repayment of $500 million in bonds to construct the water plant and pipelines. An EDJA authorizes a fast-track resolution and is often reserved for disputes affecting certain public securities in Texas. Conroe City Attorney Marc Winberry called the decision by the appeals court a win for Conroe. (The) ruling was a major victory for Conroe, Winberry said in a statement. SJRAs claim against Conroe was the major part of the lawsuit. SJRA General Manager Jace Houston maintained his confidence in SJRAs position noting the decision by the appeals court will expedite the process. "Once the trial court rules that the contracts and rates are valid, then it is clear that the cities are breaching the contracts by refusing to pay, Houston said. "Once the contracts and rates are declared valid, SJRA can easily prove breach in a separate suit." Additionally, the appeals court dismissed Conroes request to dismiss the lawsuit completely and dismissed Conroes request to have the proceedings moved from Travis County to Montgomery County. cdominguez@hcnonline.com 3 1 of 3 Mark Mulligan, Staff photographer / Houston Chronicle Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Google Maps Show More Show Less 3 of 3 The body of an elderly man was pulled from Lake Conroe on Tuesday afternoon. Leo Tullier, 84, was spotted by neighbors working on his boat out on the south side of the lake mid-morning Tuesday, according to the Montgomery County Precinct 1 Constable's Office. Determined not to forget Texas rich history and the struggles of the Texian men and women who fought for independence from Mexico, the Friends of the Flag Foundation placed a new time capsule at the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park in Conroe on Tuesday. The Sacred Soils of the Texas Revolution ceremony featuring the time capsule followed the annual flag raising ceremony. Within the capsule, 15 soils from 13 battle sites along with the gravesite soils of Texas historical figures General Sam Houston and Dr. Charles B. Stewart, and resolutions were placed by several elected officials, including Conroe Mayor Toby Powell, descendants, and community members such as Texas bronze sculptor and visionary Craig Campobella, to a drum roll and applause. A plaque titled Sacred Soils of The Texas Revolution was dedicated and near the time capsule. The vision is to open the capsule on Oct. 2, 2035, the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Gonzales. The time capsule was donated by Jeff Cashner with Cashner Funeral Home in Conroe. Our goal, when people around the world start coming to Texas to look at the history of the Texas Revolution, is that they will want to stop here, take a moment, learn more about the battle soils and make Conroe and Montgomery County part of their visit, said Larry Foerster, FOTFF board member and chairman of the Montgomery County Historical Commission. . We hope you will come by and bring your children and grandchildren over the next several years and walk by and learn more about our Texas Revolution. The annual flag ceremony was previously held each year on April 21, since the park opened in 2011, to commemorate the Battle of San Jacinto, the final battle for Texas independence. However, the event competed with other ceremonies on April 21, so the event date was changed to highlight the start of the revolution. The road to Texas independence began on Oct. 2, 1835 when Texian settlers and Mexican troops clashed at Gonzales when Lt. Francisco Castaneda attempted to repossess a cannon from the columnists. More Information The soil samples represented come from: The Battle of Gonzales - Oct. 2, 1835 The Battle of Goliad - Oct. 10, 1835 The Siege of Bexar - Oct. 27 through Dec. 9, 1835 The Battle of Concepcion - Oct. 28, 1835 The Battle of Lipantitlan - Nov. 4, 1835 The Grass Fight - Nov. 26, 1935 The Battle of San Patricio - Feb. 27, 1836 The Battle of Agua Dulce Creek - March 1, 1836 Washington-on-the-Brazos - March 2, 1836 Battle of the Alamo - March 6, 1836 Battle of Refugio - March 12-15, 1836 Battle of Coleto Creek - March 18, 1836 Goliad Massacre - March 27, 1836 Battle of San Jacinto - April 21, 1836 Gravesite of Sam Houston in Huntsville - March 2, 1793 to July 26, 1863 Gravesite of Charles B. Stewart in Montgomery (designer of the Texas state flag) - Feb. 6, 1806 to July 1, 1885 See More Collapse As a symbol of defiance, the Texians had fashioned a flag containing the phrase Come and Take It along with a black star and an image of the cannon that they had received four years earlier from Mexican officials. This was the same message that was sent to the Mexican government when they told the Texians to return the cannon; lack of compliance with the initial demands led to the failed attempt by the Mexican military to forcefully take back the cannon. On Tuesday, distinguished military veterans were each introduced before a history of the 13 individual flags they raised, including the Come and Take It flag, was read to more than two dozen attendees. The veterans included A. Richard Boehm, W.E. Owens, Tim Wilhite, George William Truman Waters, Gary Baumgartner, Champe W. Miller, Wes Porter, Ashley Taylor, John R. Green, Oscar Jack Sommers, Dick Colandro, Steve Merrel, and Garry Edward Oakley. We want to educate students and individuals alike regarding the men and women that fought for our freedom to become a state, FOTFF president Marieda Kilgore said. Its not just the men and women that fight, its the families who survive and the families who suffer as well. We are so thankful for everyone who is willing to put their life on the line for our independence and we acknowledge that with every veteran who is here today. The last flag to be raised on Tuesday, was the Lone Star Flag, which was designed by Stewart, who is buried in Montgomery, the birth place of the state flag. His great-great-great granddaughter, Pat Spackey, placed his soil in the time capsule and was honored by the experience. Charles B. Stewart has been such a blessing to us because of what he did for our heritage, Spackey said We are so blessed to have this heritage, this capsule just brings it further. We thank the flag park and everyone involved in this wonderful moment. mellsworth@hcnonline.com Courtesy photo On Nov. 30, the Central Fort Bend Chamber will host the 2018 Grand Gala and Awards Celebration at Safari Texas. The Great Gatsby-inspired evening will kick off at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail hour sponsored by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital; followed by the 2018 awards ceremony, dinner, Kendra Scott jewelry pull, trip raffle and an opportunity to purchase this years Fort Bend County commemorative ornament, inspired by Chamber artist Nina Struthers with Art by Nina. Houston City Council on Wednesday updated its rules on sexually oriented businesses, instituting changes that could bar plans for a store that allows customers to try out sex dolls on the premises from opening near the Galleria. Toronto-based KinkySdollS had planned to open a Houston branch where it would sell adult love dolls constructed of synthetic skin and highly articulated skeletons. The company intended to sell the human-like dolls, and rent them out so customers could use them in private rooms at the location. At Wednesdays meeting, the council expanded its definition of an arcade device which is used to view adult content to include an anthropomorphic device, or one with human characteristics. The city bars sexually oriented businesses, which include adult arcades, from operating within 1,500 feet of churches, schools, day cares, parks and residential neighborhoods. KinkySdollS proposed location is located a few hundred feet from the city-owned Anderson Park. The council also prohibited customers from using arcade devices on company premises, though it still allows companies to sell them. Mayor Sylvester Turner said the amendments are intended to update loopholes to make the ordinance more current, specifically in dealing with changing technology. I think the change in the ordinance will certainly capture businesses of this kind and would prevent businesses from operating in the way that this one has been described, Turner told reporters. He added that the updated ordinances focus is not on any one business. It is on any businesses that fall within this category. City inspectors already have halted construction on the KinkySdollS storefront at Richmond and Chimney Rock, citing permitting issues. A KinkySdollS spokesman did not respond to requests for comment. The proposed location sits in District J, near its border with District G. Councilmen Mike Laster and Greg Travis, of Districts J and G respectively, spoke up against the business Wednesday. Laster sought confirmation from City Attorney Ronald Lewis that the updated ordinance would eliminate the try-it-before-you-buy-it option. Lewis assured Laster that the modified ordinance "precludes certain behaviors within the shop" that would "not generally be tolerated within any business in the city of Houston." Travis took a more forceful tack, saying that most people are appalled and insulted by the business. On Tuesday, Travis had shown interest in placing cameras around the business after a member of a religious nonprofit raised concerns about sex trafficking and called on Travis to put cameras where these people are going to buy dolls. The topic of cameras did not come up Wednesday. We're not legislating morality here. That's not what were doing, Travis said. We don't care what people do in their bedrooms. If somebody wants to order these dolls and have them in their homes, it's weird, that's fine, they can do that. He added that the KinkySdollS type of enterprise degrades our city. The Houston Area Pastor Council in a news release applauded Turner and the councils rapid response to this threat to the decency of the city. The notice said HAPC plans to work with Harris County and the state on similar and possibly even broader restrictions on sexually oriented businesses. In other action Wednesday, the council voted to sell a 4.5-acre parcel of land in the 3500 block of West Dallas to an apartment developer for $30.6 million. The city and Harris County, which had built its juvenile detention center and operated a sheriffs substation on the property, will split the proceeds. Council also agreed to move the citys crime lab out of the Houston Police Departments downtown headquarters. The relocation gives the Houston Forensic Science Center about 83,000 square feet of office space at 500 Jefferson for toxicology, DNA testing, fingerprint analysis and narcotics storage. The new 30-year lease includes a 25-foot firing range in the basement. The building and lab operations will cost about $111 million over the 30-year term of the lease, city officials said. jasper.scherer@chron.com | Twitter.com/jaspscherer A Marine and woman died in an apparent murder-suicide Wednesday morning while a 4-year-old was possibly in the room with them at a west Houston hotel, police said. Houston police originally got a call from police at a Marine Corps base in California, who said one of their service members was reportedly posting disturbing information on social media, said Lt. Larry Crowson of the Houston Police Department. MALL SLAYING: Woman charged with murder in shooting of boyfriend Officers were told the man, 29, was in Houston and might have been suicidal. They also said he was likely with a woman and a 4-year-old child, Crowson said. Police werent able to find the man, but were called after midnight to the Red Roof Inn at 2960 West Sam Houston Parkway, near Westheimer. Crowson said the man and the woman, 23, were shot in an apparent murder-suicide. The suspect is unknown at this time. The 4-year-old possibly witnessed the incident and went to the hotel's front desk for help, saying the man shot his mother, Crowson said. He was seen wandering around the hotel after the shooting. The man and woman were in some sort of relationship. The child was taken to the hospital to be evaluated, as a precaution. It's unclear why the service member was in Houston, and whether the woman and child lived here. Their identities haven't been released. Capt. Martin Harris, director of communications for the U.S. Marine Corps Western Recruiting Region, said the shooting was a fairly significant and serious incident but declined to comment further on the investigation. "We are aware of a serious incident that occurred overnight in Houston, involving a Marine currently assigned to duty in San Diego," Harris said in an email. "Our primary concern is the privacy and support of families involved." The Houston Police Department and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service are overseeing the investigation. Suicides in the military are treated very seriously, Harris said. Service members are trained on how to identify when someone might have suicidal ideations, and if someone is identified, military leaders are responsible for taking the next steps in reporting the event. In 2016, 275 suicides occurred among active military members of all branches, according to a Department of Defense report. The rate is highest in the Army, with 127 suicides reported, but in the Marine Corps, 37 suicides occurred that year. The suicide-mortality rate in the Marine Corps is 20.1 per 100,000 people, according to the report. Non-fatal suicide attempts are even more prevalent, with 1,263 occurring across all services in 2016, the report found. A Houston mother accused of badly beating her two toddler daughters has been charged with murder after the older girl died in September, police said. Shandrika Nakesha Mack, 27, is accused of beating 2-year-old Kaliyah McCowan to death at her home in the 5400 block of Rampart Street, according to the Houston Police Department. Mack flagged officers down around noon Sept. 5 after she went inside her children's room and found Kaliyah unresponsive. RECORDS SHOW: Documents shed new light on man charged in diner choking case Officers rushed inside the home and found Kaliyah unconscious, according to court documents. The officers called for paramedics to help Kaliyah before they found 1-year-old Kaniyah McCowan with a black eye and several bruises on her arm. Both girls were rushed to a local hospital, where Kaliyah was pronounced dead upon arrival, according to court documents. Later that day, Mack spoke with detectives and said she only knew of carpet burns on Kaliyah's legs but knew nothing about the other injuries. Detectives spoke with the children's daycare to see if they had any knowledge of the children's injuries. Workers with the daycare told police they'd been concerned about the children's safety for a few months and had launched an internal investigation of their own. Daycare staff indicated to detectives that they believed the abuse might have been going on for months, according to court documents. An autopsy later determined Kaliyah's death to have been caused by blunt force trauma to the abdomen. Authorities ruled the manner as a homicide. Officials said that nearly one-third of Kaliyah's blood was found in her abdomen after extensive and excruciating internal bleeding. Texas Children's Hospital nurses told authorities that had Kaniyah gone any longer before being treated, she would have met the same fate as her older sister. Mack was put in handcuffs Sept. 25 after detectives' investigation and was charged with murder and injury to a child, both felonies. If convicted, Mack could face up to life in prison. Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message. Jay R. Jordan covers breaking news in the Houston area. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com | Follow him on Twitter at @JayRJordan | Email him at jay.jordan@chron.com A pregnant woman accused of killing her boyfriend after chasing him down in the parking lot of Willowbrook Mall told witnesses she acted out of self-defense, a state prosecutor said in Harris County Probable Cause court. Emily Rose Orbe, 32, is being held in the county jail on $100,000 bond. Police say that Orbe and her 36-year-old boyfriend, who medical examiners identified as Davin Walton, were fighting inside the mall in northwest Houston before an altercation spilled out to the parking lot. Around 8:30 p.m. Monday at the mall, Orbe got in a Dodge SUV and chased her boyfriend, who was on a motorcycle, a prosecutor said Wednesday morning in Harris County Probable Cause Court. As she chased the boyfriend, a witness said she could hear Orbe screaming for help and telling bystanders to call police. She hit the motorcycle, causing her boyfriend to fall off, authorities said. HORRIFIC: Houston mother accused of beating 2-year-old daughter to death Another witness said the they saw the victim get up, visibly injured, and walk to the Dodge, the prosecutor said. At that point, they saw someone inside the Dodge shoot the complainant. The driver of the Dodge, identified as Orbe, was crying hysterically and said to the first witness, I didnt want to do this, I didnt want to kill him. I had to though, I had no choice, according to the state prosecutor. She also said, I was at school. He ripped my clothes, he broke my mirror, he took my phone, he took my wallet, he has my gun. Its in my name. A third witness said they heard Orbe say she shot him because he punched her window and was robbing her, according to a police report. The man had gunshot wounds to the head and torso. An officer saw a handgun and handgun magazine in the Dodge. The prosecutor said that Orbes boyfriend didnt have any of Orbes property that she described. A public defender argued for lower bond and said, citing Harris County District Court records, that the boyfriend had a predisposition for violence. Witnesses in the parking lot said they could hear the man yelling back at Orbe. The defender said that about two weeks ago, the boyfriend was charged with assault of a family member, and Orbe was the complainant. The public defender also said the boyfriend had previously served between 10 and 12 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Orbe has been a longtime resident of Houston and now lives in Humble. She is five weeks pregnant and has four children between the ages of 1 and 11 . October 2nd marks the 183rd anniversary of the Battle of Gonzales, which marked the first military fight of the Texas Revolution in 1835. The famous flag from that Gonzales clash has become a hallmark of Texas pride, with its "Come And Take It" message one of Texas' most-defining. It is the first flag used in the Texas Revolution and close to 200 years later it shows no signs of going away. RED MENACE: Texas' lost communist 'invasion' of 1952 It can be seen on shirts, neckties, underwear, license plates, album covers, food trucks, murals, hats, koozies, and fraternity walls, even tattooed into the skin of true blue Texans. Houston Chronicle The phrase "Come and Take It" dates back to King Leonidas I defying the Persian army to take his army's weapons with the phrase "Molon labe" at the Battle of Thermopylae. The Gonzales flag itself was created by Sarah Seely DeWitt and her daughter, Evaline, from Noami DeWitt's wedding dress. BATTLE WAGON: Spending a night aboard the Battleship Texas, the last of her kind The Battle of Gonzales centered on American colonists in that town who were refusing to give back a cannon (the one on the flag) back to Mexican soldiers that they had received in 1831 to fend off Natives in the area. They wanted it now to defend themselves from Mexican General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's increasingly aggressive actions against the colonists. Houston Chronicle As the Texas State Historical Association notes, the battle was actually more of skirmish. But it did mark a definitive break in relations between the Mexicans and the colonists. Less than a year later Texas would be its own republic. SEE ALSO: Come and Take It Flag | 3x5 feet "Come and Take It" also was used in the American Revolution when Col. John McIntosh told British brass the same thing as they attempted to overtake Fort Morris in Georgia on November 25, 1778. The fort would later fall but the fight would motivate thousands to come. BIG FAIL: When making a map of Texas goes really, really wrong It has come to symbolize defiance against someone or something looking to grind you down or deprive you of a right or privilege. The disposition of the cannon immortalized on the flag has been disputed. Some believe Mexican General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's troops melted it down along with other weaponry after they seized it. You can see replicas of the flag all over Texas. That is if you don't already have one above your living room mantel, like any self-respecting Texan. Craig Hlavaty covers Houston history and pop-culture. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com. | craig.hlavaty@chron.com | Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message Sorghum pollen sickened a group of students who broke out in hives and had trouble breathing while helping at a corn maze at a Tomball church on Friday, Sept. 28. About two dozen Salem Lutheran School seventh graders began experiencing symptoms, causing the nurse to call the Rosehill Fire Department and a Hazmat team to investigate the incident, said spokesperson Joey Bluege. UNIQUE VIEW: Astronaut corn maze photographed from space They were given the opportunity to be of service to Salem's student ministry in preparation for the grand opening of the corn maze on Saturday. The objective was to remove toppled corn and sorghum stalks out of the maze paths, along with other setup jobs along the perimeter, Bluege said. The students high level of discomfort caused the nurse to contact emergency medical services. One student went to the hospital as a precaution, but was released to her parents later that night. The other students that experienced mild symptoms of skin irritation which can occur when coming into contact with either corn, sorghum, or even grass were picked up by their parents at school at the end of the school day, Bluege said. POLITICAL: Presidential race inspires Houston-area corn maze While helping to set up, some students mistakenly believed an open and nearly empty bag of fertilizer was causing the symptoms and alerted the assistant principal. No students working near the fertilizer were affected, he said. Now that the Hazmat team determined the sorghum pollen was causing the irritation, school officials plan to review the incident and determine future steps to prevent a health hazard. This experience will be reviewed in detail in our leadership meeting this week. The safety and care of your children is our priority, said director of educational ministries Mary Gaertner in a statement to parents. mayra.cruz@chron.com 3 1 of 3 Courtesy of the FBI Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Courtesy of the FBI Show More Show Less 3 of 3 The FBI is seeking the public's help in identifying two suspects who robbed a bank in northwest Houston on Tuesday. At about 3:50 p.m., a Capital One Bank at 19619 Tomball Parkway was robbed by a suspect dressed in a security guard uniform and an accomplice who allegedly approached two different bank tellers and demanded money. Officials with the annual In the Pink of Health Luncheon in The Woodlands, an event that helps raise funds for various breast cancer awareness programs, education and research, announced the keynote speaker for this years event will be Olympic figure skating gold medalist and icon Scott Hamilton. Luncheon co-chairs Cheryl Brady and Tiffany McClung both said Hamiltons presence at the annual event, which draws a sell-out crowd each year estimated at about 1,200 attendees, is exciting because the iconic figure skater has himself battled cancer testicular and provides a different angle on breast cancer from a male point of view: stressing the importance of men supporting the women in their lives who are battling breast cancer. He is so motivational. We felt lucky to have him speak, McClung said. Brady said breast cancer can also afflict men, but a more common intersection for men is supporting their wives, daughters, sisters, mothers or other women in their lives who are facing a battle with breast cancer. Hamilton being the guest speaker at the Oct. 12 event is exciting for many, she added. He has a very inspiring story, Brady said. He has been dealt several cancers and battled through them. Men go through (breast cancer) with their wives, their moms. Were trying to get more men in the picture. Hamilton is widely known for his success on the ice as a gold-medal winning figure skater at the 1984 Winter Olympics, hosted in Sarajevo part of the former Yugoslavia. A survivor of three bouts of cancer himself, Hamilton helps raise both awareness and funds for research through several organizations, including the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation, the Angel Mentoring Program The In the Pink of Health organization was founded by officials at Memorial Hermann in 2001, with the annual luncheon helping raise funds for numerous breast cancer initiatives and events, as well as donations to research and education. The 2017 luncheon, according to information provided by Memorial Hermann, helped provide funding to a multitude of local groups, including the Interfaith The Woodlands Community Clinic, the Judith L. Robinson Foundation, as well as The Rose and Canopy facilities. This is the luncheon that has been going on for 18 yearsa group of women who want to raise awareness of breast and ovarian cancers, Brady said. Our luncheon is our main campaign where we raise most of the funds. It raises funds for the community and raises money for research. Some of the funds raised at the event go to Interfaith of The Woodlands, where the money is used to pay for breast cancer screening and mammograms for women in financial need or with no insurance who otherwise cannot afford the the tests. Other efforts receiving funding include Canopy, a unique facility at Memoral Hermann - The Woodlands that offers a space for cancer survivors and their relatives to come, get counseled and also taking cooking classes. In The Pink of Health Luncheon What: Annual fund-raising luncheon for breast cancer awareness, research and education When: Friday, Oct. 12, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Where: The Woodlands Waterway Marriott & Convention Center For more information: visit www.inthepinkofhealth.org or call (713) 897-7465 See More Collapse McClung added to Bradys comments, saying the event began as a humble womens health initiative and has, Just grown and grown over the years. During the 18 years of the event, McClung said much of the funds that have been raised were dedicated to opening the Canopy facility and also keeping it open and serving the community. In 2017, the luncheon raised an estimated $227,000 for Canopy, as well as $66,000 for Interfaith cancer screenings. Another $40,000 was raised for educational materials given to cancer survivors at the hospital, and $47,000 was provide to The Rose for diagnostics, screening and treatment for women of any age. This year, as part of the fund-raising efforts, a two-year lease for a 440i BMW convertible will be auctioned off. The lease was generously donated by officials from BMW of North Houston & The Woodlands. The massive luncheon involves 41 volunteers who work together for months preparing for the event, McClung said. We have 41 unpaid volunteers. They work tirelessly, McClung explained. They are extremely passionate about this. They all have a story. All of these women have a story and have been touched in some way by cancer. Although breast cancer awareness efforts have grown exponentially over the past decade, McClung said the In the Pink of Health event raises money that is utilized locally, which is important. Breast cancer (awareness) has gotten out there (in public) so hugewhat makes us different than other charities is what we really focus on it taking care of people in the community, McClung added. Breast cancer has not gone away. We are lucky the community is so generous. An Iranian diplomat was among six people who had been arrested for allegedly plotting the bombing of the MEK event, which featured among its guests senior United States politicians, including Rudy Giuliani, Donald Trump's attorney. One target of a new French crackdown on money flowing to Iranian intelligence is a diplomat suspected in an aborted bid to attack an Iranian exile group, officials said. It said it had acted against the "instigators, authors, and accomplices" of the foiled attack. Iran has two parallel intelligence services, often competing and at times at odds with each other. The diplomat, Assadollah Asadi, was targeted by the asset freezes announced by French authorities Tuesday, as well as Saeid Hashemi Moghadam, who the French diplomatic source said was head of operations at the intelligence ministry. Tuesday's accusations were directed at the ministry of intelligence, which is nominally part of Hassan Rouhani's government, but in fact heavily controlled by the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The French government gave no details of the assets involved, describing its measures as "targeted and proportionate". "If there is a misunderstanding. about a thing that does not exist, be it a conspiracy by others or a mistake, we can sit down and talk about it", Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi told AFP in an interview. The NCRI is considered to be the political arm of dissident group Mujahideen-e-Khalq (MEK), which Iran has designated as a terrorist organisation. On Monday, a court in southern Germany ruled the diplomat could be extradited to Belgium. On Tuesday, the French government said it believed that the Iranian intelligence ministry was behind the plot. In reaction to France's allegations, Qassemi said such a scenario and plot aim to harm good and growing relations between Iran and Europe in line with the objectives of the USA and the Israeli regime managed by a terrorist group residing in France. "We deny the accusations and forcefully condemn the Iranian diplomat's arrest, and call for his immediate release", a statement from the Iranian foreign ministry said earlier Tuesday. The US removed it from its list of terror groups in 2012, but the MEK's animosity with Iran's rulers has earned it powerful allies in the west, most particularly among Trump associates such as John Bolton, who is the group's most powerful advocate. The incident comes after President Donald Trump pulled out of an worldwide agreement on curbing Irans nuclear program, defying allies including France which says that the deal is working. This came just a day after the Islamic Republic launched six missiles at a jihadists' headquarters in Syria over a deadly attack on an Iranian military parade that killed 24 people, and renewed French comments expressing concerns about the country's missile programme. Police said the arrests were not linked to the June bomb plot. PALU, Indonesia - Ten-year-old Mohammad Zaki was climbing on a beachfront playground at dusk on Friday when the ground beneath him seemed to disappear. Badly injured and disoriented, Zaki was then hit by a rush of ocean water, as hulking waves crashed down on this coastal city. He scrambled across the debris and when the chaos passed, found that he was bleeding heavily, his clothes ripped from his body. He staggered toward the city and was found by a police officer. "He had to climb on top of a car from a hole in the ground," said Rosmawati, his 33-year-old aunt who sat next to his hospital bed, fanning his wounds in the crushing humidity with a piece of a cardboard box. "He was brave." Zaki has been waiting five days for an operation to repair a severe laceration on his stomach, one of dozens of patients waiting for additional treatment at the state-run Undanta hospital - still without fuel to run its generators and so without electricity. "I'm still in pain," he said from his bed in the hospital's hallway. Indonesian President Joko Widodo visited this battered city for the second time on Wednesday, and the neighboring region of Donggala for the first, where twin disasters - a 7.5 magnitude earthquake and a tsunami that followed - have taken 1,407 lives and counting. "The most important thing in a post-disaster situation is fast handling!" Widodo, better known as Jokowi, said in a tweet. He has appointed his vice president to lead recovery efforts, and the government's disaster management agency has deployed over 6,000 people to the area, ushering in convoy after convoy of fuel, planes filled with clean water, instant noodles and basic medicine. They have begun to coordinate the arrival of foreign C-130 transport planes, and police and army officers now line the streets to quell the looting and disorder that were rampant in the aftermath. Still, residents believe these efforts pale in comparison to the mammoth task ahead of this community, which can't shake their feelings of forlorn abandonment, after no help came for nearly six days. Across this region on Wednesday, sign after sign, some hung up on fences and some held up by weary survivors, continue to beg for help: "we're hungry," "don't forget us," "we are victims too." Of those who have been officially confirmed dead, only about a third have received any kind of burial, some in mass graves high up in the hills surrounding the city and the lucky few by family members who have found them. Thousands more may be dead, buried under the mud below. "We expect this data to continue to change," said Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, spokesman for Indonesia's disaster agency, said of the death toll. Another 70,000 have been rendered homeless, camped out in makeshift shelters fashioned out of tarps and bamboo poles. Foreign aid will begin to trickle in to Palu city, Donggala and the surrounding region. Around 29 countries have offered help, said Sutopo, and 17 of those have met the Indonesian government's specific needs. Seven C-130 transports, offered by four countries including Singapore and Japan, will head to the region to airlift out survivors, reunite some with families in Palu and transport in much needed goods. Other countries, like Australia, have pledged doctors and medical equipment. For now, though, medical centers like the Undanta hospital are messy and overwhelmed. The hospital's entrance was littered with oxygen canisters and hypodermic needles, and patients lay on stretchers under the blazing sun, waiting for treatment. In the parking lot, dozens of corpses wrapped in body bags and tarps were being loaded into dumpsters by volunteers and soldiers to be taken to mass burial sites. Inside, one elderly man lay on his hospital bed in a diaper, rice scattered all over the thin blue mattress. Some doctors and nurses wore latex gloves and splashed their hands with rubbing alcohol. Others used gardening gloves, some worked barehanded and in flip flops. When the disaster first hit, "nothing was on" said Muhammad Sakti, a doctor coordinating the medical team here. "We couldn't work." Most patients here were buried under collapsed buildings, doctors said. Some suffered from open fractures, others needed to be amputated. Lifesaving operations were prioritized, Needs are still acute. "We need fuel," said Sakti, admitting he was exhausted, "not just for the hospital, but for all. We need, electricity, water." The government, he said, has promised fuel supplies, but as of now, "it's just a promise," he added with a laugh. On Wednesday, Widodo toured Palu, including the now-wiped out settlement of Petobo, where hundreds are still believed to be buried underneath thick mud. He visited the remains of the Roa Roa, an 80-room hotel that collapsed completely during the earthquake burying about 50 or 60 guests underneath. His black SUV was mobbed as he pulled away from the site, and he handed packets of biscuits to children. Moments after he left, Talib, a 24-year-old rescuer, standing by military personnel guarding the area, broke down. "I had hoped that while Jokowi was here, all the help would come here," he said, fighting back tears. He had arrived at the site of the hotel earlier that day with his own climbing equipment to scale the wreckage, a lone volunteer searching through the rubble. Heavy equipment, he pleaded, needs to arrive to free the trapped inside, even though they are likely dead. "If it was a member of your family, wouldn't you cry too?" Talib added. "This is the sixth day, brother." When soldiers who were there for Jokowi's appearance began to disperse, Talib scaled back up the wreckage of the hotel again and restarted his search. - - - Mahtani reported from Hong Kong. The Washington Post's Ainur Rohmah in Jakarta contributed to this report. Russia has completed the delivery of S-300 air defense systems to Syria, the Russian defense minister said Tuesday. Shoigu said the integration of Russian and Syrian air defense assets into a single automated system will be completed by October 20. The work was completed a day ago. The video shows the big front cargo doors of the aircraft opening up, through which the Russian servicemen rapidly unload an S-300 launcher, radar and control vehicles, as well as the mounting of surface-to-air interceptor missile tubes onto a hauling unit. The Russian defense minister added that it will take three months to train Syrian specialists to use the S-300 air defense missile system. Moscow held Israel responsible for the September 17 incident, saying the regime's pilots had intentionally used the Russian plane as cover to conduct air raids, effectively putting it in the cross hairs of the Syrian air defenses. But the Russian Defense Ministry said the Israeli warning came less than a minute before the strike and said one of Israeli F-16 fighter jets was flying close to the much larger Russian plane, resulting in the Syrian missile homing in on the bigger target. In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said she could not confirm Russia's claim that the S-300 was delivered. Israel has communicated to Russia's President Vladimir Putin that, together with the backing of US President Donald Trump, it will continue to act in Syria, restating its right to self-defense and freedom of operation. Russia announced last week that it would boost security measures in Syria following the downing of a Russian military plane by an S-200 missile by mistake, which Moscow blamed on nearby Israeli planes. Moscow's decision to supply the systems to Syria has caused concern in Jerusalem. "We have not changed our strategic line on Iran", Israeli Education Minister Naftali Bennett, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's security cabinet, said on Tuesday. Syrian government forces patrol near the village al-Hamidia in the Syrian Golan Heights on August 14, 2018. The plane was previously used to deliver aid to Syria. A general view taken on September 24, 2018 shows destruction in the town of Binnish, in Syria's militant-held northwestern province of Idlib. In New York this week, Netanyahu vowed to continue "to act to prevent the Iranian military entrenchment in Syria". OTTAWA - The Parti Quebecois, founded a half-century ago with the goal of separating Quebec from the rest of Canada, suffered a humiliating defeat in Monday's provincial elections, raising questions about the survival of the party and the future of the separatist movement. The party managed to attract only 17 percent of the popular vote and won only nine seats in Quebec's National Assembly, losing official party status. Its leader also lost in his Montreal constituency. The big winner in Monday's vote was the Coalition Avenir Quebec (Quebec Future Coalition), a right-of-center party founded in 2011 that surged to take 74 seats in the 125-seat assembly, defeating the incumbent Liberal Party, which came in a distant second. The coalition is led by Francois Legault, a former Parti Quebecois politician and onetime airline executive who earlier renounced separation. He ran a populist campaign that was considered lackluster but included promises to cut taxes, curb immigration, and raise spending on health and education. Legault called his party's victory "historic," ending the electoral battle between the separatist Parti Quebecois and the federalist Liberal Party that has long dominated politics in the largely French-speaking province, Canada's second-most populous. "There are many Quebecois who have set aside a debate that has divided us for 50 years," Legault told supporters at a victory rally. Although Legault has said that Quebec's place remains in Canada, he is considered a Quebec nationalist who is likely to renew traditional claims for a transfer of powers from the federal government to the province. And he has vowed to cut immigration and force newcomers to learn French and pass a "values test" within three years of arrival or face expulsion, seen as a largely meaningless threat since Canada's federal government is responsible for granting permanent residency and citizenship. For the Parti Quebecois, whose popularity soared in the 1970s and 1980s and whose second independence referendum in 1995 came within a whisker of victory, Monday's result was no less than catastrophic. (It also lost a separation referendum in 1980.) "This is the worst outcome for the Parti Quebecois since its creation in 1968," said Graham Fraser, a visiting professor at McGill University's Institute for the Study of Canada and author of a party history. The party first fielded candidates in the 1970 provincial election and attracted 23 percent of the vote - and number that soared to almost 50 percent of the vote in 1981. On Monday it got just over 17 percent. The party held power as recently as 2014. Fraser said that the problem for the Parti Quebecois is that "it failed to excite a younger generation. It has been the party of the baby boomer generation." Quebecers have been influenced by the rise of President Donald Trump, Britain's experience with Brexit and Catalonia's failed effort to separate from Spain, he said. "It's difficult to say that breaking away is peachy-keen easy when you see the situation in Catalonia," Fraser said in an interview, calling it "complicated." The result also makes life more difficult for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Since assuming power in 2015, his fellow Liberals have lost power in Canada's three most populous provinces - Ontario, British Columbia and now Quebec - and now face the prospect of a more fractious relationship with Quebec. But Trudeau told the news media Tuesday that he had congratulated the new Quebec premier, and they vowed to work together to build a stronger economy and "a better future for all of us." Valerie-Anne Maheo, a political scientist at the University of Montreal, said that Quebec's millennial voters no longer see the same social and economic inequalities between French and English speakers in Quebec that motivated their parents and grandparents to support the idea of a separate country. "Millennials don't see the necessity and the urgency of this project" of a sovereign Quebec, she said. Yet many young voters turned in the elections to a left-wing party called Quebec Solidaire, which captured almost as many votes and more seats in the legislature than the Parti Quebecois. It also promotes separation but put more emphasis in its campaign on issues such as the environment. Pollster Jean-Marc Leger said that the election result reflects the collapse of Quebec's traditional parties, the Liberals and the Parti Quebecois, which together attracted only 42 percent of the total vote. "The majority of Quebecers voted for new parties," Lege said. And while he admits that the Parti Quebecois's future is bleak, Leger says that separatism will continue to be a factor and that 35 percent or so of the public still backs breaking away from Canada. What has changed is that Quebec Solidaire has become the movement's new standard-bearer. "Separatism is still there. It's a never-ending story," Leger said. TOKYO - Japan's whaling operations have suffered a big setback after the "scientific" hunt for sei whales in the Northern Pacific was effectively declared illegal by an international body that regulates trade in endangered species. The Standing Committee of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) found Tuesday that Japan had broken the rules by selling thousands of tons of meat from endangered sei whales commercially. Sei whales are the ninth-largest living animal on the planet, usually growing to between 45 and 60 feet in length and weighing 20 tons. They also are among the fastest whales, possessing the ability to swim up to 35 mph. They are found in almost every ocean and sea in the world but were hunted almost to extinction in the 19th and 20th centuries. Japan has killed more than 1,500 sei whales in 16 years, supposedly in the name of scientific research. It then sells the meat openly in the country, saying it uses the proceeds to fund further research, even though the International Whaling Commission agreed to a global moratorium on commercial whaling in 1982. But the CITES Standing Committee overwhelmingly ruled that Japan had broken its rules by taking the whale meat from international waters, effectively constituting illegal trade across international boundaries. "This was an important decision because it was not about the usual whaling politics but about the rule of law," said Erica Jayne Lyman, a professor in the International Environmental Law Project at Lewis and Clark Law School in Portland, Or. Japan has until Feb. 1, 2019, to remedy its noncompliance and report back to CITES. "This means Japan must close its domestic market for sei whale meat, which is currently widely available in grocery stores, restaurants and the Internet," Lyman said. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species lists sei whales as endangered, with the adult population having declined by about 80 percent over the past three generations; CITES lists them on Appendix One, meaning international trade in these whales is prohibited. They are thought to number in the tens of thousands globally, but there is no accurate count. The species' Latin name is balaenoptera borealis, which means northern winged whale. "It is a rebuke," said Mark Simmonds, senior marine scientist at Humane Society International U.K., referring to the ruling. "The key thing is that the great majority of countries do not accept the argument that this is scientific. It's not about science, it's about commercial gain." The decision is the latest setback for Japan's whaling industry. Last month, a Japanese proposal to reintroduce "sustainable" commercial whaling of four species was rejected by 42 votes to 27 at an International Whaling Commission meeting in Brazil. In March 2014, the International Court of Justice ruled that Japan's Antarctic hunt had no scientific basis. In a recent report, the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) and the Animal Welfare Institute said Japan, Norway and Iceland had killed 38,539 whales since the moratorium took effect, with more than 22,000 killed by Japanese boats alone. Wildlife groups say Japan's whale hunt for ostensible research purposes is a thinly veiled attempt to keep the commercial whaling industry alive, ensuring boats, skills and a market for whale meat are maintained. Danielle Grabiel, senior wildlife policy analyst for the EIA's U.S. office, called the decision a "big deal" and a referendum on Japan's whaling programs. "Two international bodies - the International Court of Justice and now CITES - have concluded that Japan's whaling operations violate international law," she said Wednesday. "Regarding yesterday's decision specifically, it is difficult to see how Japan can continue hunting sei whales and address the concerns raised by CITES." Sue Fisher, a lawyer with the Animal Welfare Institute, said that if Japan did not end the commercial trade in sei whales, CITES could impose sanctions on trade with Japan involving all CITES-managed species, ranging from tropical timber to reptile skins. A case of malpractice involving anesthesia that resulted in the death of a 2-year-old boy in 2006 was settled in favor of the plaintiffs in July, with the court ordering a Tokyo hospital to pay about 32.4 million yen ($284,000). The case raises questions about how medical institutions can prevent critical incidents, and what are the appropriate measures when investigating and disclosing the details about such an event. At a news conference held after the ruling on June 21, the boy's father said he hoped the ruling would urge medical institutions to change for the better - and by doing so, keep his son's death from being a waste. The malpractice occured in September 2006 at the Sakakibara Heart Institute in Tokyo, when the boy, who had severe heart problems, went through cardiac catheterization to check the function of his heart. This is a medical procedure in which a thin catheter is inserted into a large blood vessel that leads to the heart. The boy's blood pressure dropped shortly after the pediatrician administered general anesthesia. With reduced blood supply to the brain, he suffered hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, a type of brain damage caused by lack of oxygen. The boy died in December, never regaining consciousness. His parents filed a suit against the corporate entity of the medical institution at the Tokyo District Court in 2014. The court's ruling focused on the fact that the pediatrician, who administered inhaled anesthetic in a higher density than usual, which increases the risk of lowering blood pressure, never took any steps to reduce it. The court found the doctor had been negligent because they mismanaged the boy's blood pressure, and did not even set up an intravenous drip to inject medicine in case of emergency. The hospital told The Yomiuri Shimbun in a written statement that they took the legal decision seriously. "The medical institutions in Japan aren't aware enough that anesthesia itself involves risks," said Katsuyuki Miyasaka, an affiliated professor at St. Luke's International University who specializes in anesthesia safety. "They have to realize it's a matter of life and death." Miyasaka, who has practiced medicine in North America, points out the tendency to overlook safety measures when handling anesthesia during clinical check-ups; presumably because doctors focus on the examination itself. And as it is not considered treatment, they pay less attention to potential perils. According to a study conducted by the Japan Pediatric Society (JPS) in 2010, nearly 20 percent of the responding hospitals said they experienced cases of respiratory arrest in children who were put to sleep with sedatives while undergoing MRI scans. They also found that the risk of complications extended to people who were only put under sedation, not general anesthesia. Together with the Japanese Society of Pediatric Anesthesiology and the Japanese Society of Pediatric Radiology, JPS made a list of safety measures in 2013, asking institutions to assign specific doctors to monitor the patients during the procedure. In a follow-up survey carried out in 2016, JPS found that while the number of serious cases of anesthesia complications had decreased, more than 20 percent of the hospitals still did not assign any doctors to monitor the procedure. There is another issue: Since there are no regulations on who can administer anesthesia, it is being done by doctors with no special training. The drug used in the boy's case was Fluothane - known for its risk of causing an irregular heartbeat and lowering blood pressure. The drug was released in 1959 and stopped being sold in 2015. "It was a matter of common sense to administer something new and less complicated, even in 2006," an experienced anesthesiologist said. "The risk is higher for children with serious heart problems. It is extremely dangerous for a non-specialist to administer it." An investigation into a case at Tokyo Women's Medical University Hospital in 2014, where a child died due to an overdose of sedatives, revealed that the otolaryngologist who was the primary physician had little knowledge on the risks of anesthesia. Last year, there were several cases of malpractice involving anesthesia related to pain relief during birth, with obstetricians handling both delivery and the control of anesthesia. "Fundamentally, anesthesia should be handled only by people with special training," said Mamoru Takeuchi, professor of Anesthesiology at Jichi Medical University. "But the number of staff are completely insufficient, so hospitals have to reconsider their safety measures." Takeuchi, who is also a former chairman of the Japanese Society of Pediatric Anesthesiology, stated the need to add anesthesiology to residency training. "We need to review the medical education system," he said. In May 2006, four months before the malpractice involving the boy at the Sakakibara Heart Institute, the same pediatrician carried out cardiac catheterization under anesthesia on a girl with heart disease. She never regained consciousness and died in 2007. Though the hospital opened an inquest in June 2006 that made recommendations to address the issues in a report, they were never implemented, resulting in the subsequent case in September. It was for this reason the boy's parents requested the hospital to disclose their case. When the institution was unresponsive, they took it to court eight years later. During the trial, the Tokyo District Court recommended an out-of-court settlement in favor of the plaintiffs, which the boy's parents declined, saying they wanted a ruling. "People will know about the topic if there is a ruling," they stated. "We want to raise the public's awareness, so that such cases never happen again." Masao Katayama, who pinpointed the problems as an external member of the inquest, said the boy's case was a bitter, yet typical, example of errors made with no lessons learned. Katayama, a former director of the department of anesthesiology at St. Luke's International Hospital, deplored the fact that his report ended up an empty shell. "Everyone in the medical field, including myself, should learn from this case," Katayama said. In June this year, several hospitals, including those of Chiba University and Yokohama City University, admitted overlooking possible cancer alerts pointed out in the reports made on a patient's image diagnosis. Such revelations led medical societies to work on making recommendations for improvements. A similar approach was taken by the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology after several cases of anesthesia malpractice during childbirth were made public through media reports. The society conducted a survey to analyze such cases; till then, not even the data were known. The Health, Labor, and Welfare Ministry established a study group to examine safety measures. Yoshimasa Nagao, director of the department of quality and patient safety at Nagoya University Hospital, stressed the importance of medical institutions disclosing malpractice cases. "If publicizing serious misconduct became a rule, hospitals would start reevaluating their roles and think carefully about how agonizing it is for the patients," said Nagao, who has his own experience of revealing mishaps in his hospital where the staff ignored reports on the patient's image diagnosis in 2016 and 2017. "At the end of the day, their way of thinking and actions on safety measures will be corrected." "Getting an LNG project to a final investment decision is like a moon landing", said Maarten Wetselaar, Shell's integrated gas and new energies director, in Vancouver. Shell has a 40% interest in LNG Canada and the remaining shares are held by Malaysia's Petroliam Nasional, Mitsubishi, PetroChina and Korea Gas. At the same time, output from older projects is set to decline in coming years, just as soaring demand from China, India and Southeast Asia is devouring a supply glut previously expected to last for years, fanning fears that an LNG shortage may be looming. According to information provided by the province, LNG Canada would be the least greenhouse gas-intensive large LNG facility in the world. LNG Canada is the single largest private sector investment project in Canadian history, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a statement issued by LNG Canada. With global LNG demand expected to double by 2035 compared with today, much of the growth will come from Asia where gas is displacing coal, chief executive of Royal Dutch Shell Ben van Beurden said in a separate statement. TransCanada will seek financing and joint venture partners for the pipeline, which is slated to begin service in 2023. The cost for the liquefaction plant and a 670 kilometer pipeline to connect gas to the plant will exceed 2 trillion yen ($17.6 billion), a company official said. The initial two-train development will have the capacity for 14 million tonnes of LNG per annum and a further two trains could potentially be added in subsequent development phases. A Shell logo is seen at a gas station in Buenos Aires, Argentina, March 12, 2018. Meanwhile, B.C. politicians are quarreling rather than rejoicing: CBC reports the parliamentary parties are fighting about who should take the credit for the favorable investment decision on the project. PetroChina via subsidiary PetroChina Canada Ltd and Mitsubishi via subsidiary Diamond LNG Canada Ltd own 15% each in the project. The project will boost Canada's oilpatch, which has struggled to attract investment due to the government's stumbles in winning regulatory approval to expand the Trans Mountain oil pipeline. "This represents roughly 20% of overall gas production in Canada", the statement said. "The Final Investment Decision taken by our joint venture participants shows that British Columbia and Canada, working with First Nations and local communities, can deliver competitive energy projects", said Andy Calitz, CEO of LNG Canada. Environmental groups such as the David Suzuki Foundation also believe the project does not match B.C.'s climate change goals. The launch of a massive liquefied natural gas (LNG) export project in Canada could fire the starting gun on a wave of other approvals around the world, potentially curbing a supply crunch expected after 2020. Energy consultancy Wood MacKenzie said it appeared project partners had pushed hard to reach an investment decision, with rival projects progressing in Qatar, Russia, Mozambique and the United States. "The capex requirements of the Canadian LNG project do not put pressure on (Royal Dutch Shell's) ability to provide returns to shareholders but we think it signals an effort to re-build a strained portfolio and question how compelling the economics are", Citigroup analyst Alastair Syme wrote in a research note. The body of a missing Massachusetts man last seen in Lakeville has been found, Connecticut State Police said Wednesday. After several days of searching, the state police dive team found the body of German Perez, 60, on Wednesday afternoon, police said. The body was found about 1 mile south of where the mans car had been found last week, police said. LONDON - The mystery surrounding the whereabouts of missing Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi deepened Wednesday with Turkish officials saying he was still inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, contradicting a Saudi government statement that he had left it a day earlier. Khashoggi, 59, a prominent commentator who writes for The Washington Post's Global Opinions section and has recently been critical of the Saudi leadership, visited the consulate Tuesday to obtain paperwork related to his upcoming wedding, his fiancee said. He has not been heard from since. Ibrahim Kalin, a spokesman for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said during a televised news conference Wednesday that "the information we have is that the Saudi citizen in question is still in the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul." More for you Crude jumps as Iran's supply gap overshadows U.S. supply gain Kalin raised concerns about the legality of the apparent detention, saying that Khashoggi's disappearance "has a dimension of international law. There is a dimension of the law of the Turkish republic." But an emailed statement from the Saudi government earlier Wednesday called reports that Khashoggi was missing "false." "Mr. Khashoggi visited the consulate to request paperwork related to his marital status and exited shortly thereafter," said the statement, which was attributed to an unnamed Saudi official. In a subsequent statement issued early Thursday, the Saudi consulate in Istanbul said "it was following-up on the media reports of the disappearance of Saudi citizen Jamal Khashoggi after he left the building of the Saudi consulate in Istanbul." The statement added that the consulate was "carrying out follow-up procedures in coordination with the Turkish local authorities to uncover the circumstances of the disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi after departing the Consulate." On Wednesday, the State Department requested information from the Saudi government about Khashoggi's whereabouts and expressed concern about his safety, a senior U.S. official said. There was no immediate response from the Saudis, said the official, who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to describe the diplomatic effort on the record. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke on the phone Wednesday with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, but a State Department official declined to say whether the two discussed Khashoggi's status, citing "private diplomatic discussions." According to a readout of the call, they discussed the war in Yemen, countering Iran and "areas for expanding U.S.-Saudi collaboration." In a statement Wednesday, Fred Hiatt, editorial page editor of The Washington Post, said, "The Post is extremely concerned about Jamal. We have reached out to anyone we think might be able to help locate him and assure his safety, including U.S., Turkish and Saudi officials." The disappearance has stunned some of the Saudi government's stalwart defenders and highlighted the country's increasingly aggressive pursuit of its critics under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed. The Saudi authorities have arrested hundreds of people over the past year, often on murky charges, including women's rights advocates, dissidents and popular clerics, according to human rights groups. When Khashoggi entered the consulate on Tuesday afternoon, he left his phone with his fiancee, along with instructions that she should call an adviser to President Erdogan if he did not return, she said. The fiancee, a Turkish citizen, has asked journalists not to publish her name. She called the police hours later, after the consulate had closed and he had not emerged. Khashoggi's friends said that police officers had reviewed footage from cameras around the area and told them there was no sign that Khashoggi had left the embassy. On Wednesday, the fiancee, her sister and other friends stood vigil around the consulate in a quiet, residential neighborhood of Istanbul. Workers from a nearby law office passed by, glancing at the cameras. "Is he still inside?" one asked. As her friends spoke to reporters, the fiancee sometimes sat by herself, on a curb. "We were going to marry this week," she said. Khashoggi fretted about going into the consulate but had weighed the risks, she added. "Of course he was worried. How comfortable can one be if he is not liked by his country?" she said. Khashoggi's apparent detention threatens to become a flash point in relations between Turkey and Saudi Arabia. The two countries maintain cordial relations but are on opposing sides of a regional dispute pitting Qatar against a bloc of Arab nations led by Saudi Arabia. Turkey has strongly supported Qatar in the feud. Khashoggi, who had been close to Saudi Arabia's ruling circles for decades, has written extensively about Mohammed's policies, criticizing the arrests of activists and questioning Saudi Arabia's involvement in a war in neighboring Yemen. He has lived in self-imposed exile in the United States since last year, saying he feared arrest if he remained in Saudi Arabia. "I have left my home, my family and my job, and I am raising my voice," he wrote in a column last year. "To do otherwise would betray those who languish in prison." - - - The Washington Post's Zeynep Karatas in Istanbul and Carol Morello and Anne Gearan in Washington contributed to this report. An elderly Florida man is facing criminal charges for allegedly offering a mother $200,000 for her 8-year-old daughter before kissing the child. The woman, Tracy Nigh, told police the 81-year-old Kolb asked her if she was married before changing the subject to her daughter. When the horrified mother got up to leave, Kolb is said to have grabbed her daughter by her wrist and kissed it. "I then said 'No, we have to go'". Police arrested Hellmuth Kolb on Saturday on charges of battery and false imprisonment of a victim under age 13, according to Volusia County, Florida, Corrections online records. Authorities said Kolb's exchange with Nigh was caught on surveillance camera and Kolb was identified through his credit card transaction and social media, where another woman described a similar experience. An arrest report says Nigh left with her daughter and alerted store security. Nigh posted about the incident on Facebook. "Shook rocked and shocked to the core", Nigh wrote. He then allegedly tried to buy the 8-year-old three different times, according to the Orlando Sentinel. It was Kolb's first arrest in Volusia County. "The first amount was $100,000, the second amount was $150,000 and then the final amount was $200,000", Nigh said, explaining that she grew increasingly uncomfortable as the chat continued. 'Be careful out there women and men with your daughters, wives and the all the women in your life, please! WASHINGTON - In an unprecedented move, Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday released an explicit statement that purports to describe the sexual preferences of a woman who has accused Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of misconduct. The statement, which was circulated to the hundreds of journalists on the Judiciary Committee's press list, was from Dennis Ketterer, a former Democratic congressional candidate and television meteorologist who said he was involved in a brief relationship with Kavanaugh accuser Julie Swetnick in 1993. Swetnick said last week in an affidavit that Kavanaugh was present at a house party in 1982 where she alleges she was the victim of a gang rape, a claim he vehemently denies. In his statement, Ketterer said Swetnick once told him that she sometimes enjoyed group sex with multiple men and had first engaged in it during high school. Ketterer said the remark "derailed" their relationship, which he described as involving "physical contact" but no intercourse. Ketterer said Swetnick "never said anything about being sexually assaulted, raped, gang-raped or having sex against her will" and "never mentioned Brett Kavanaugh in any capacity." He described their relationship as lasting for a "couple of weeks." It was highly unusual for a congressional committee to release a statement that included such explicit and unconfirmed details about a member of the public. The Republican side of the panel, which said the statement was provided by Ketterer "under penalty of felony," emailed excerpts to journalists and posted the full statement on its website. Ketterer said that his "lasting impression" of Swetnick was that she was "smart, fun and funny." He also described her as "an opportunist" who sought him out at the bar where he said they first met. "I felt she only had interest . . . because I was on television and well-known," he said. Swetnick attorney Michael Avenatti called the statement "bogus and outrageous" and called for the FBI to interview Swetnick and Ketterer to assess their truthfulness. "At the same time the committee refuses to provide documents, they don't hesitate to provide this piece of garbage," Avenatti said Tuesday afternoon in a phone interview. "This was absolutely fabricated to assist the GOP to ram through this nomination," he said, calling for reporters to "dig good and hard" into Ketterer's background. The statement's release reflected Republicans' aggressive tactics to fight the allegations against Kavanuagh, who is currently being investigated by the FBI. Kavanaugh has been accused of sexual assault by two other women, including Christine Blasey Ford, who testified before the Senate last week about an incident when both were teenagers. He denies all claims of misconduct. Reached by phone on Tuesday night, Ketterer said he provided the statement to the committee on Monday night after hearing Swetnick's allegations last week and discussing his memories of her with local leaders in his church. Ketterer described himself as a longtime member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) and lives in the Salt Lake City area. "We talked about doing the right thing, and the right thing was not to hold it back," Ketterer said in an hour-long interview. Eventually, he said, one church leader reached out to a former LDS bishop who had a connection to the office of Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee and is also a member of the church. Ketterer said he spoke with Hatch's staff last Friday and was then handed off to staff for Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, who he said pressed him in a long phone interview about his knowledge of Swetnick's background and her family relationships. "They interviewed me like I was being deposed," he said. "My wife told me, 'They're trying to decide if you're a credible witness.'" Ketterer lost his bid to represent Maryland's 8th congressional district as a Democrat in 1996. Now a registered Republican, he says he identifies more strongly as a political independent and does not support President Trump. Ketterer said he has never met Kavanaugh and did not know who he was until Trump nominated him to the Supreme Court. Ketterer said he provided his statement because he wanted to "do the right thing" and because he sympathized with Kavanaugh's wife, Ashley. "I was kind of hoping to find a backchannel way to Mrs. Kavanaugh," he said. Senate GOP aides told him they "didn't have a way" to pass his information to her, he said. Ketterer said he has "no opinion" of Ford's allegation and blamed both political parties for grandstanding during last week's hearing. "This has nothing to do with party - it really doesn't," he said. "I really don't support either party." Avenatti used Twitter on Tuesday to release a written declaration from a second woman whose statements supported Swetnick's claims. The woman, whose name was redacted in the document Avenatti posted, said she "witnessed firsthand Kavanaugh and others spike the punch at house parties with quaaludes and/or grain alcohol." "I understood this was being done for the purpose of making girls more likely to engage in sexual acts and less likely to say, 'No,'" the declaration stated. In an interview, Avenatti expressed frustration with the FBI for not agreeing to meet with Swetnick. He said that if a meeting does take place, Swetnick plans to tell the bureau the names of other people who attended parties in suburban Maryland in the early 1980s where she says she saw Kavanaugh drink excessively and fondle and grope girls. Kavanaugh has denied these allegations. Ketterer, who was terminated from his position with Channel 7 in Washington in the mid-1990s, sued the station for $12 million in 1995 over what he said was discrimination against him because a psychiatrist had diagnosed him with bipolar II disorder. Ketterer said the lawsuit was dismissed in summary judgment and that he learned weeks later that he had been misdiagnosed. He has diabetes, not a mental illness, he said. "I was having mood swings," he said. "When my blood sugar gets low, you don't want to get anywhere near me." "I am not mentally ill," he added. --- The Washington Post's Ian Shapira and Erica Werner contributed to this report. Melania Trump has arrived in Ghana (shown there in above photo) to begin her first major solo global trip as first lady of the United States - and the people of Ghana seemed to be thrilled to welcome her to their West African nation. The visiting American First Lady, Melania Trump on Tuesday had a historical moment with mothers and babies at the Greater Accra Regional (Ridge) Hospital in Accra. Landing Tuesday morning, the first lady was greeted on the tarmac by Ghanaian first lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo and a bouquet of flowers wrapped in kente cloth followed by a dancing-and-drumming performance. The first ladies met privately for about a half-hour at Jubilee House, Ghana's presidential palace. The items carried the logo of "Be Best", the child well-being initiative Melania Trump launched last May. The US first lady also plans to visit Malawi, Kenya and Egypt. On arrival at the Kotoka International Airport in Accra, she was received by the country's First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo. "Congratulations", the first lady said as she handed a blanket and teddy bear to a mother breastfeeding her child. "Thank you very much", she said with a smile. "She is interested in Africa because she has never been before and knows that each country will have its own unique history and culture". She would also be making a donation to the facility. "Africa is so lovely, the most lovely part of the world, in many ways", he added. With the Africa visit, the first lady aims to take "Be Best" and its focus on opioid abuse and online behavior to an worldwide audience. Now, Melania Trump is in Ghana to "educate herself on the issues facing children on the African continent" while children of immigrants including Africans are being kept in cages by her husband without any remorse. "This is her trip, her initiative", she said. Given the administration she represents, her trip does not appear promising. "In fact, she has always envisioned Africa for her first solo global swing". Trump clapped her hands and waved at a group of school children waiting for her at the airport. Mrs Trump, born Melanija Knavs in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, on April 26, 1970, is the wife of Donald Trump, who was sworn in as the 45th President of the United States of America in January 2017. First lady Melania Trump visited a former slave holding facility on the coast of Ghana on the second day of her Africa tour, one of dozens of "slave castles" still standing that were used in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Kenya Wildlife Service headquarters are also anticipating a visit by the US First Lady as she takes a tour of four African countries. Mothers at the hospital for her visit received gifts of teddy bears nestled in white baby blankets, personally handed out by the first lady, according to her spokeswoman, Stephanie Grisham. Trump's tour of Africa may well be meant to help heal some wounds caused by her husband, who once reportedly referred to Haiti and some African nations as "shitholes" during a meeting on immigration back in January. But what differs from her predecessors' swings is that the sunny messaging during Trump's trip to Africa falls at odds with her husband's policies, say public health experts and leaders of nongovernmental organizations. The first lady also had a private tea with her Ghanaian counterpart, Rebecca Akufo-Addo. The two first met last week in NY at a reception on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly, where Mrs. Trump spoke about her upcoming trip. US First lady Melania Trump and Ghana's first lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo watch dancers during an arrival ceremony. "I don't think I have ever heard her name, Melania". She was welcomed at the airport with dancing and drumming, schoolchildren waving mini United States and Ghanaian flags and the gift of a flower bouquet. Akufo-Addo was at the airport to welcome her. "She's going to Africa to fight cyberbullying". "It was handsome", he said. "It's really a tragedy", she said. Melania will hold a brief meeting with President Uhuru Kenyatta and First Lady Margaret Kenyatta. Melania will also visit Malawi and Egypt. Donald Trump holds a "Make America Great Again" rally in Mississippi. President Trump used his "Make America Great Again" rally in MS on Tuesday night to hit back against the scrutiny surrounding his Supreme Court nominee, Judge Brett Kavanaugh. Trump was egged on by his MS supporters, as he repeatedly made fun of Ford's testimony about being sexually assaulted by Kavanaugh. specifically her claim that she only had one beer at the party where it allegedly took place. "'Nope. It was one beer.' Oh good". "How did you get there?" I don't remember. How did you get there? "But I had one beer that's the only thing I remember, '" Trump said about her testimony. I met him for the first time a few weeks ago. I don't know.' 'Upstairs? 'I don't know.' Where's the house? Trump, who last week referred to Ford as a "very credible witness", continued in his impression: "What neighborhood was it in?" "Mom a bad thing just happened, a person who I've never met said that I did things that were awful, and they're firing me from my job, mom, I don't know what to do, mom, what do I do?" But I had one beer. At his rally, the president mocked Ford's testimony with a question-and-answer patter that brought cheers from the crowd in Southaven, Mississippi. If President Trump's statement Tuesday morning that it's a "very scary time for young men in America" had you screaming into the void, just wait until you watch him mock Christine Blasey Ford. Trump said she "had no clue what was going on" and "made the most frightful charges against" Kavanaugh, who he described as being "a great person". "They destroy people, they want to destroy people. Think of your husband", Trump told the rally, noting he has had "many false allegations" against him. "A vicious, vile and soulless attack on Dr. Christine Blasey Ford". His son, Donald Trump Jr., said in an interview that aired this week on DailyMailTV, that he fears more for his sons than for his daughters in the age of #MeToo. "Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? He is a profile in cowardice", Michael Bromwich wrote on Twitter. She is remarkable profile in courage. "Your vote in this election will decide which party controls the United States Senate", Trump said. Republican officials and the White House expect Hyde-Smith's race to go to a runoff under the state's jungle election rules that force a showdown between the top two finishers if no candidate wins at least 50 percent of the vote on Election Day. It's been reported that Trump pushed his Supreme Court nominee to be more furious about the accusation. Turkish and Saudi authorities, including the Istanbul consulate and the Saudi Embassy in Washington, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Khashoggi's personal website bore a banner saying "Jamal has been arrested at the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul!" without elaborating. "I do not know if Jamal is inside". Khashoggi, who was trying to obtain documents related to a marriage license, had initially visited the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul on Friday, his friends said. An undated picture shows prominent Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. She added that she contacted Turkish security forces but did not receive any information about Khashoggi's disappearance. Sources told Al Jazeera that Turkish police had begun searching for the dissident. His fiancee, who asked not to be named, told CNN she has been outside the consulate since he entered the building. Most were released after reaching financial settlements with the authorities. "We know very well that the government is on it, they will inform us", she said. Khashoggi, a prominent commentator on Saudi affairs who writes for The Washington Post's Global Opinions section, has lived in self-imposed exile in the United States since a year ago, when he left Saudi Arabia over concerns that he would be arrested or prevented from traveling. Formerly an editor of the Al-Watan newspaper and of a short-lived Saudi TV news channel, Khashoggi has also been a contributor to BBC programmes about Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. Khashoggi, a former government advisor who went into self-imposed exile in the United States previous year to avoid possible arrest, has been critical of some of the policies of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Riyadh's intervention in the war in Yemen. "We have been unable to reach Jamal today and are very concerned about where he may be", The Post's global opinions editor, Eli Lopez, said in a statement. It would be unfair and outrageous if he has been detained for his work as a journalist and commentator. Khashoggi, who once acted as an adviser to the Saudi royal family, fled Saudi Arabia in September of previous year amid a crackdown on the kingdom's intellectuals and journalists. "We hope that he is safe and that we can hear from him soon". In a column for The Post last month, he called on Saudi Arabia to use "its clout and leverage" to end the war in Yemen. While MBS has led a modernisation campaign to counter the kingdom's image as an ultraconservative society with a repressive government, rights groups say the crackdown against human rights activists has escalated. He is also known for his close association with the young Osama Bin Laden, with whom he travelled extensively in Afghanistan in the 1980s during the Soviet occupation - though he publicly rejected Bin Laden's later ideologies and had fallen out of touch long before the 2001 attacks on the US. At the Russian energy forum today, the Saudi minister also praised the "very healthy" oil market fundamentals and dismissed the criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump who has called out OPEC several times, blaming the cartel for the high oil prices. Would you say they're rich. The White House said Trump and the king spoke on "issues of regional concern". Trump, facing political pressure at home, has been calling on OPEC and allies like Saudi Arabia to boost their production to lower global crude oil prices. Speaking at a campaign rally in Mississippi, Trump said: "I love the king, King Salman, but I said, 'King, we're protecting you". Trump did not elaborate further on the conversation but appeared to be referring to a telephone call he had on Saturday with King Salman bin Abdulaziz. "OPEC and OPEC nations are, as usual, ripping off the rest of the world, and I don't like it". However, analysts are warning prices could go up to $100 a barrel as the world's production is already stretched and Mr. Trump's sanctions on Iran's oil industry take effect in early November. Earlier today, Reuters reported that Saudi Arabia and Russian Federation had agreed to a private deal last month to quietly increase production between September and December to rein in the rising oil prices, allegedly keeping the United States in the loop about their plans. The average cost of a gallon (3.78 litres) of petrol in the United States was $3 in May, according to AP. But despite the Trump's comment, his administration has kept a close relationship with the Saudi kingdom. Trump made Saudi Arabia his first stop on his maiden worldwide trip as president previous year. Qatar has denied the allegations. There is also an American military presence in the UAE, Iraq, Jordan, and Oman, which can rush to help Saudi Arabia at a moment's notice. The presence of the USA military in Saudi Arabia, home to the two holiest sites in Islam - Mecca and Medina - was strongly objected to by most of the world's Muslim population, according to opinion polls published by Gallup in 2009. "We defend many of these nations for nothing, and then they take advantage of us by giving us high oil prices". Qatar hosts the largest U.S. military base in the region. He has also pressed other USA allies, such as Japan, South Korea and Germany, to take more of the financial burden of their defense. Pro-Turkey rebels began Sunday withdrawing from areas in northern Syria under a deal brokered by Ankara and Moscow to avert a large-scale military assault on the country's last major opposition stronghold, a monitor said. Earlier this month, Turkey, a backer of the opposition, and Russian Federation, which is the key backer of the Syrian government, agreed to establish a demilitarized zone at a depth between 15-20 km between the Syrian forces and the rebels in Idlib. According to the deal, the rebels would withdraw from the demilitarized zone along with heavy weapons. Idlib lies on the border with Turkey and is held by a complex array of rival rebel and jihadist factions, which observers expect will complicate the buffer zone's creation. A spokesman for Faylaq al-Rahman also told AFP on Sunday it had not moved any forces or arms. Faylaq Al Sham has some 8,500 to 10,000 fighters who are part of a Turkish-backed alliance known as the National Liberation Front (NLF). The Turkish-backed Fallaq al-Sham has issued a statement ruling out any withdrawal from the Idlib Province areas meant to be covered by the deal brokered by Turkey, which was meant to prevent a Syrian offensive against them. On September 17, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan agreed to set up a demilitarized zone about 15 to 20 kilometers wide skirting Idlib. Most of the territory where the zone would be established is controlled by either hardline jihadists or by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an alliance led by former Al-Qaeda members and widely considered the most powerful force in Idlib. Also, sources close to the terrorists' commanders in Idlib have said that Tahrir al-Sham commander Mohammed al-Julani is due to declare his position on the Sochi agreement between Turkey and Russian Federation on a demilitarized zone in Idlib soon. Hurras al-Deen, a smaller Al-Qaeda-linked group, has rejected the agreement. The group also said Turkey should ensure the Idlib deal does not end up like last year's de-escalation zones in central and southern Syria, where rebel-held areas were later simply taken over by government forces. "We are against this deal, which eats into liberated [rebel-held] areas and bails out Bashar Assad", its head Jamil Al Saleh told AFP. "The rebels have no choice at this point other than trusting the Turks to ensure Idlib's security". The London-based observatory also reported clashes between militants and government forces in the coastal province of Latakia on Sunday. The foreign ministers met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, Russian news agency Tass said. A beauty spot made famous by a film starring Leonardo DiCaprio has been closed indefinitely to protect it from tourists. But a survey of the problem during the temporary ban made clear that the short-term fix was not going to work and that the damage was worse than originally thought. "Experts have expressed concerns that there is still not enough [time] for the coral and the newly planted forest to be revived", said Vorapot Lomlim of the Hat Noppharat Tara and Phi Phi Marine National Park. Many of those who visit the beach, stay in neighbouring Phuket which is less than an hours boat ride from the popular bay. After the island closed its doors, the national park and wildlife authority started planting hundreds of corals in Maya Bay, and some have started growing branches, DNP director-general Jongklai Worapongsatorn said, adding a baby shark was also spotted in the bay that was once filled with tour boats. According to CNN, Thailand's Department of National Parks announced that the bay will remain closed indefinitely, as it may need a number of years to recover from the effect that tourism has had in recent times. Besides beach erosion, heavy traffic around the azure waters can also damage sensitive coral reefs, already vulnerable to rising sea temperatures and climate change. If you've been looking forward to spending your year-end holiday in Krabi's famous Maya Bay, which was set to reopen this November, then we've got some unfortunate news for you! He repeated, "Tourist will not be allowed at Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay". Paul Pruangkarn of Pacific Asia Travel Association - a non-profit working with Thai operators to promote responsible tourism - said the decision was a double-edged sword for local communities. "They still have to feed themselves and support their families". The decision to shut off the beach has been met with both praise from environmentalists and complaints from those in the tourism industry. Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte announced in April a six-month closure of the popular Boracay beach resort, calling the destination a "cesspool". This is an increase of nearly half a million compared to a year ago. Facebook makes American society better Facebook makes American society worse Worse because of the way some people use Facebook Worse because of the way Facebook itself is run Facebook has no effect on American society No opinion Vote View Results And even the new US-Mexico-Canada Agreement that updates the existing continental free trade pact reveals Washington's strategy for countering China - by essentially forbidding any free trade deals with Beijing by any of the USMCA partners. On Monday afternoon, Darigold President and CEO Stan Ryan issued a statement saying the company was grateful that the USA was looking out for the American dairy industry with this latest agreement. "He's a professional. I'm a professional", Trump said, calling it a "fair deal". "We weren't at the table or maybe the deal would have been a little different". Observers also suggested that the USMCA clause may be created to send a message to Beijing that the United States' North American partners support its push to get China to clean up its practices and open its markets. Perth made up 11.45 per cent of last year's milk production in Ontario while Oxford led the way with just over 12 per cent. Trump took particular interest in Class 7, which USA dairy farmers say is a barrier to exports of ultra-filtered milk, and tweeted repeatedly about it while the negotiations were under way. "We can't at this point be upset until we get the finer details, but overall we're very disappointed". Trudeau tried to placate Canadian dairy farmers by promising compensation. The Ontario government is already accusing the federal Liberals (and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau) of throwing dairy farmers "under the bus" by giving American milk producers greater access to Canada's heavily protected system of supply management. USA dairy farmers will receive additional access to the Canadian market. "We're very disappointed the government has done this", Sherk said. "The market has continued to erode". The dairy sector is disappointed over concessions made to push the deal through, while the government has been praised for preserving the independent dispute resolution mechanism. "I certainly sympathize with the Americans saying that, 'We need a steel industry and an aluminum industry, ' but I would have thought we're part of the solution". "There's a lot of concern about the deal". That keeps disputes out of USA courts, where Canadian officials felt Canadian firms would be at a disadvantage. Canada is also reported to have secured some protections for automobile industry against potential U.S. tariffs. Canada has long held high tariffs on most dairy products, leading to higher prices than in the United States, while Trump has argued that the U.S. industry should be able to sell more products to its northern neighbour. "I then will submit it for approval to Congress where, in theory, there should be no trouble, but anything you submit to Congress is trouble", Trump said. Nine million United States jobs depend on goods and services we ship to our northern neighbor. The clause, which has stirred controversy in Canada, fits in with U.S. President Donald Trump's efforts to isolate China economically and prevent Chinese companies from using Canada or Mexico as a "back door" to ship products tariff-free to the United States. Americans avoided a 25 percent tariff on Canadian-made cars, but may still see an increase in prices because of new manufacturing and labor agreements. Canada and the US reached a deadline deal on a new free trade pact that will include Mexico, the governments announced late on Sunday, after more than a year of talks to revamp a pact President Donald Trump had labelled a disaster. The implications for the pharmaceutical sector may be particularly important: earlier this year, a University of Toronto researcher argued that extending the term of data exclusivity for biologic drugs would make it harder to implement a truly national pharmacare program. Four men terrorized Houston area residents in a nine-week crime spree, holding up people at gunpoint and sexually assaulting two women, police said Wednesday in announcing their arrests. The four _ Cameron Lucas, 17, LaCharles Craige, 18, Trenton Jackson and Marquis Clark, both 21, are responsible for more than 30 aggravated robberies and attacks that began on June 21, Houston police said, describing the incidents as "extremely violent, extremely scary and extremely terrorizing." Houston City Council on Wednesday approved a 7 percent pay raise for police officers over two years, a deal that includes an option for a 2 percent cost of living increase for a third year if the two sides do not reach a new agreement. The approval comes less than three weeks before Houston residents begin voting on a ballot item that proposes to grant firefighters pay parity with police officers of corresponding rank and seniority. The measure, which will appear on the ballot as Proposition B, has proven contentious as Mayor Sylvester Turner seeks to convince voters the city cannot afford it, a claim hotly disputed by the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association, the union that negotiates contracts on behalf of the rank and file of the Houston Fire Department. The Turner administration has said the new police contract, which goes in to effect Jan. 1, would cost the city $52.7 million over two years. Should voters approve the parity measure next month, the city would be on the hook for another $41.5 million for firefighters during the same time period, he said. Quite frankly, Proposition B does capture any pay raises for police going forward, the mayor said Wednesday. I found it unthinkable to ask police to wait and stand down depending on what happens on Nov. 6, when they are out on the street 24 hours, 7 days a week, doing their job. Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association President Marty Lancton said the union has consistently maintained that we believe our brothers and sisters in blue deserve everything theyve earned. He declined to weigh in on how the police raises may impact voting on the referendum, saying only that union officials believe that Houston firefighters need to be equally compensated. Lancton and the union have been considerably more vocal in response to a series of community meetings Turner has held in recent weeks in which the mayor exhorted voters to reject the parity measure next month, saying it would amount to a 25 percent raise for firefighters and cost $98 million a year, far more than the city can afford. Turner continues to say firefighters deserve a raise, and complains that the union rejected an offer from the city of 9.5 percent over three years. Passage of Proposition B would force the city to lay off as many as 1,000 employees, including firefighters and police, he has said. Lancton and the union reject the layoff threat as a scare tactic and have accused Turner of trying to punish firefighters for fighting his pension reform efforts, which won passage in the Texas Legislature and the Houston council table last year. Lancton has said the fire union overwhelmingly rejected a 4 percent raise offered by former mayor Annise Parker in 2014, saying the offer included benefit cuts that would have offset the additional pay. He also has said the proposed 9.5 percent raise touted by Turner was offered in bad faith after negotiations between the city and the union had broken down. Earlier this week, after City Controller Chris Brown estimated that Proposition B would cost the city $85.2 million a year $13 million less than Turner has claimed Lancton said it proved the mayors Proposition B claims cannot be trusted. His math, like his judgment, is driven by an obsession with punishing Houston firefighters. The rancor even threatened Wednesday to derail a weekend forum in which Lancton and the mayor would debate the parity measure. A day after announcing the forum, the union abruptly withdrew, complaining organizers allowed the mayor too much influence over the event. Hours later, Lancton reversed course, saying the union again had agreed to participate after organizers had cleared up some miscommunication about the forum. Meanwhile, the head of the Houston Police Officers Union praised the new contract and raises ratified by the city council. "Were extremely happy with the contract," Houston Police Officers Union President Joe Gamaldi said. "Although you never get everything you want, its important to sit down at the table and negotiate a deal that both parties can live with. I applaud the mayor and the council for their leadership and not holding our officers hostage while Proposition B plays out." The new deal grants police officers a 4 percent raise on July 1, 2019, and a 3 percent raise the following year. It will run through Dec. 31, 2020, with an additional 2 percent raise going into effect in 2021 if the two sides cannot agree on a new contract. The police departments current contract expires Dec. 31. In addition to the raises, the new contract eliminates biweekly mentor pay and increases biweekly field training instructor and field performance evaluator pay. The agreement, reached through the meet and confer process with the HPOU, also changes the rank of captain to commander. A memo attached to the agenda said the name change does not alter duties, responsibilities or pay. The contract further stipulates that officers who receive college tuition reimbursement must remain with the department for five years, and are eligible for only one degree per study level. A spokesperson for Turner said the captain-to-commander change would not impact the cost of the parity measure. The 7 percent raise, however, would add about $14.5 million to the proposals cost in the first year, Turner estimated in a recent memo to council members. The raises will go into effect for officers who have completed their six-month probationary periods; those officers earn $55,000. Reporter Mike Morris contributed to this story. jasper.scherer@chron.com Twitter.com/jaspscherer The family of a 6-year-old boy killed in a 2015 crash tearfully castigated the driver Wednesday for driving under the influence of prescription drugs. An uncle and the teenage brother of young Joshua Medrano faced Blaine Boudreaux, 38, in the courtroom a day after he was sentenced to 80 years in prison on a felony murder conviction for two fatal crashes, miles apart, on the same day in 2015. At the end of the day, youll be able to see your kid, Anthony Medrano , 17, told Boudreaux from the witness stand in a Harris County courtroom as he mother stood with him. Do you know where we have to go to see our dead kid? Medranos uncle, Carlos Villareal, choked back tears as he remembered the boy. Even though he was only 6-years-old, he planted a beautiful seed of memories, Villareal told Boudreaux. And judging by the emotions of your family yesterday, were not the only ones you hurt that day. The family comments were presented as victim impact statements, which offer family members a chance to speak directly to a defendant after he or she has been convicted. It happened after Boudreaux officially was sentenced by state District Judge Robert Johnson, capping the end of week-and-a-half-long trial. Boudreaux was involved in four wrecks, two of which were fatal, over the course of three and a half hours on April 26, 2015, a Sunday afternoon. He tested positive for Xanax after the wreck that killed Joshua Medrano, which occurred just minutes after a hit-and-run where he killed 61-year-old Leonard Batiste, a homeless Vietnam-era Air Force veteran. Defense attorneys Billy Skinner and Matt Deluca argued that the prosecutors did not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Boudreaux was committing a hit-and-run when he ran a stoplight and caused the wreck that killed Medrano. After the verdict, Skinner said Boudreaux is remorseful, but has had problems dealing with the reality that he killed two people and that he will not be there for his own young son, who was born premature and has struggled to stay alive. I believe he feels remorse, and hes expressed that to me and members of his family, Skinner said. He both caused the loss of two lives and hes losing his son, so its a difficult set of emotions to process. Jurors heard evidence of a string of wrecks that began about 3 p.m. that day when he rear-ended two people near the Texas Medical Center and was given a traffic ticket by a Houston police officer. About an hour later at Weslayan and Westpark, he rear-ended a man in a Smart car. Within 20 minutes of that, Boudreaux drove his black Dodge Ram pickup to Spur 5, near the University of Houston, where he ran over Batiste. Minutes later, he was going about 60 mph when he ran a stoplight at Lockwood and Interstate 10, colliding with a Honda Civic and killing Medrano, who was in the backseat. Prosecutors told jurors that police arrested him on the scene for driving while intoxicated and said blood tests showed he had taken the prescription drug Xanax. Vehicular Crimes Chief Sean Teare and Lynn Nguyen prosecuted the case. This little boy deserves justice, Teare said as he held up a photo of a smiling Joshua during closing arguments. Brian Rogers covers Houston crime and courts. You can email him at brian.rogers@chron.com and follow him on Twitter at @brianjrogers. An 80-year-old man with an inoperable brain tumor has been found incompetent to stand trial nearly a month after he was arrested in the fatal bludgeoning of his wife, Alice Engelbrink, his lawyer said. Richard Engelbrink was found incompetent Wednesday after Harris County District Clerk records show he was allowed to undergo a psychiatric evaluation nearly two weeks prior. At some point after Engelbrinks arrest, he was transferred to a medical facility at the Harris County Jail, authorities said. The state allowed Houston psychiatrist Dr. Mark Moeller to examine Engelbrink after the initial request on Sept. 10 Defendant has a medical condition that requires the review and evaluation by a medical doctor, according to a Sept. 24 filing. Dane Schiller, a spokesman for the Harris County District Attorneys Office, said Judge Herb Ritchie signed an agreement to find Engelbrink incompetent after Moellers findings. Earlier this year, Engelbrink was diagnosed with a brain tumor which his family says may have played a role in the killing at their west Houston home. The family as you can imagine is extremely distraught over this and has asked for privacy, said Engelbrinks lawyer, Dorian Cotlar. Cotlar declined to comment on Engelbrinks health. He is due back in court Oct. 16. Engelbrink was arrested Sept. 6 after walking to a Chase Bank and telling employees a family member tried killing him. Moments before his arrest, investigators believe he attacked his 71-year-old wife who staggered into the street and died in a neighbors yard on Faust Lane. A neighbors doorbell camera captured the bizarre moments leading up to Alice Engelbrinks death. Her husband, wearing a suit and clutching a briefcase, tried opening the neighbors door as his wife questioned his attire and behavior. I dont understand what youre doing, Alice could be heard crying out in a video. Why are you acting like this? The weapon Engelbrink allegedly used to batter his wife was never determined. A Sept. 10 obituary for Alice Engelbrink described her as a longtime accountant dedicated her life to her family. Instead of flowers, the tribute asked for donations to the Mischer Neuroscience Institute at Memorial Hermann to further advance their research in brain tumors. nicole.hensley@chron.com @nkhensley Masked men shot a homeowner during a home invasion in Houstons South Side on Wednesday morning, police said. Police arrived at the house, in the 3900 block of Luca Street, close to 1 a.m. Two men in masks had forced their way inside and shot the homeowner in the stomach, said Houston police spokesman Lt. Larry Crowson. BOYFRIEND KILLED: Pregnant woman claims she chased him down and shot him in self defense They took a beige Tahoe that was in the driveway. Its unknown why they chose this specific house. Crowson said that a woman and three children around the age of 10 were inside at the time of the shooting. They werent hurt. A hive with nearly 80,000 Africanized bees in River Oaks is one of more than a half dozen similar colonies found in the Houston-area in the last two weeks, according to an expert. The most recent hive to be discovered is just inches above the ground inside a tree in the 3300 block of Ella Lee Lane, and is set for removal Thursday. Claude Griffin, owner of Gotcha Pest Control, is in the process of removing the bees. THE WOODLANDS: Help offered in race to save the pollinators "They're really tiny and small," Griffin said. "They have a lot of ... guard bees up front." Africanized bees are smaller than others and can sting a one square-inch patch of skin up to 50 times, Griffin said. Because of this, he's taking extra precaution in removing the hive. Typically, professionals will flush bees out with smoke and transport them to another site. But Griffin will be using a special vacuum-type instrument to pull the roughly 80,000 bees out of the tree before taking them to a safe offsite location. While normal hives will typically have anywhere between 20 and 50 guard bees ready to attack any predators, Africanized beehives usually have up to 100 bees ready to defend. "They're very, very strong," Griffin said. EARLIER: When A.J. Foyt was attacked by bees Griffin said this hive is the eighth Africanized beehive he's removed in the last 14 days. He's been removing hives in the Memorial, River Oaks and Jersey Village areas in the last two weeks. "For me this year, (it's unusual)," Griffin said. "I get mosquito issues, cockroaches sometimes. But other than that, I don't get too many problems in River Oaks." Griffin said he will be going door-to-door around the 3300 block of Ella Lee Lane on Thursday, warning neighbors to stay away during the removal. Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message. Jay R. Jordan covers breaking news in the Houston area. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com | Follow him on Twitter at @JayRJordan | Email him at jay.jordan@chron.com Mayor Sylvester Turner and Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association President Marty Lancton are scheduled to discuss the November ballot referendum that would grant firefighters pay parity with police officers at a community forum Saturday, marking the first time they will address the contentious issue on the same stage. The hour-long forum, hosted by the Harris County Democratic Party and moderated by Houston Chronicle Editor of Opinion Lisa Falkenberg, will dive into the implications of voting for or against Proposition B, according to a news release. The forum will begin at 10 a.m. at St. Johns United Methodist Church, 2019 Crawford. CITY CONTROLLER: Fire pay 'parity' cheaper than Turner says, but still 'unsustainable' The debate over Proposition B mostly has played out in media reports and on social media, without the two sides meeting face to face. Turner has hosted several town halls in different council districts, part of a public tour that will continue through Oct. 18. Turner repeatedly has said he believes firefighters deserve a raise, but argued the city cannot afford the parity measure, which he says would cost $98 million a year and amount to a 25 percent raise for firefighters. His administration has estimated the city would be forced to lay off nearly 1,000 workers if voters approve the measure next month. As with his town hall meetings, Mayor Turner wants to let Houstonians know that while firefighters deserve a raise, Proposition B is not the way to do it, Sue Davis, a consultant who is managing the political action committee to oppose Prop B, wrote in an email. It is a deeply-flawed document full of mistakes that does not create equal pay for equal work it does the opposite, creating unequal pay, with firefighters being paid more than police. The fire union has disputed Turners cost estimate and called the threat of layoffs a scare tactic to turn voters against the measure. Lancton said he would comment after receiving more information about the forum, but he previously has called Turners raise estimates a political talking point. He also has argued that Proposition B does not mandate an immediate 25 percent pay raise, and signaled willingness to phase in parity over a number of years. BITTER CAMPAIGN: Mayor Turner faces steep challenge with fire pay parity measure Mark Jones, a Rice University political scientist, said both sides will seek to dispute the others claims about the cost and effect of voters approving the parity measure. During the forum, Turner should aim to rebut firefighters claim that the city has enough money for parity, but the politicians dont want to spend it, Jones said. The mayor also should point out that firefighters turned down raises while police have accepted them, Jones said. Lancton has said a previous offer included unreasonable benefit cuts. I think (Lanctons) best option is to cast doubt on Turners doomsday scenario, and to present it, not as firefighters breaking the bank at the city, but the city making choices about how it spends its money to the detriment of firefighters essentially making the argument that the city has been balancing its budget on the back of firefighters for a decade, Jones said. On Wednesday, City Council is scheduled to consider a 7 percent pay raise for police officers over two years, beginning July 2019. That would add an estimated $14.5 million to the parity cost in the first year, Turner wrote in a recent memo to council members. If Proposition B passes, Turner wrote, the corresponding increase in firefighter pay from new police raises would be $41.5 million over two years. The police raises would cost $52.7 million over the same period, according to Turner. On Tuesday, city Controller Chris Brown estimated the parity measure would cost the city $85 million a year, about 14 percent less than Turners projections, but said the cost is unsustainable. Early voting begins Oct. 22, a little more than two weeks after the forum. jasper.scherer@chron.com Twitter.com/jaspscherer He said when US officials asked Indians why they wanted a trade deal with Washington, they said it was to keep the US President happy. On September 18, Trump had announced imposing new tariffs on an additional 200 billion US Dollars worth of imports from China, escalating the trade war with the Asian giant. Although most trade experts were surprised the final deal turned out as well as it did - incorporating numerous improvements from the Trans-Pacific Partnership that Mr Trump jettisoned by backing out of that agreement on his first day in office - they say Washington's heavy-handed approach worked. So, let's say they (Indians) charge us 60 per cent tariff on a product. Miller is said to have marketed the ban on Chinese students to Trump as not just a way of combatting Chinese espionage, but also of hurting the elite universities whose students and staff have criticized and ridiculed his presidency. After Trump's comments, Brazil's Foreign Trade Minister, Abrao Neto, defended the relationship, saying it was "very positive". He quoted Modi as telling him, "Nobody every spoke to me" about the high tariffs. Trump's remarks came days after Assistant US Trade Representative Mark Linscott returned from India where he had detailed discussions with senior Indian officials on bilateral trade and a possible trade deal between the two countries. So far, India has not responded to any of the claims or acknowledged any attempt to engage with the USA for future trade talks. Thereafter, he referred to a conversation that Lighthizer had with the Indian officials. Isn't that nice? It's true. "They have to keep us happy, because they understand that we're wise to what's been happening", Trump claimed. That's how powerful they are. "Where do they come from?'" Trump said. "So because of the power of tariffs and the power that we have with tariffs, we, in many cases, won't even have to use them". "We're totally prepared to do that if they don't negotiate". The Oval Office meeting came after the White House released a national security strategy document last December which included a promise to tighten visa procedures for some countries in order to "reduce economic theft by non-traditional intelligence collectors" and after FBI Director Chris Wray called Chinese students part of a "whole of society" threat to the USA during an open Senate Intelligence Committee hearing in February. So, let's say they (Indians) charge us 60 per cent tariff on a product. I said, where are these people coming from? Including both goods and services, the trade surplus amounts to US$ 250 billion. On Wednesday, President Donald Trump announced his support for a Republican congressman facing a tough re-election in Dallas against an Obama-endorsed candidate. "Congressman @PeteSessions of Texas is a true fighter and patriot," Trump wrote on Twitter. "Highly respected in D.C. by all, he always gets what his district, and our country, wants and needs." "Strong on Crime, Border, Military, Vets and 2nd Amendment," Trump continued. "Pete has my Full and Total Endorsement. A great guy!" So far, the president has endorsed at least nine Texas candidates running for office this November, most notably Sen. Ted Cruz and Gov. Greg Abbott. True to his style, the majority of the endorsements have been issued on Twitter. But he's not the only president stumping for candidates on social media. On Monday, Former President Barack Obama circulated a second round of midterm endorsements on Twitter, including nine candidates running for office in Texas. RELATED: Obama endorses nine Texas candidates, leaves out Beto O'Rourke The list of endorsements numbered 260 Democratic candidates, featuring four candidates running for Congress in Texas and five candidates running for the Texas Legislature. In August, Obama issued his first wave of endorsements, including two congressional candidates from Texas, Adrienne Bell (TX-14) and Colin Allred (TX-32). Allred, a civil rights attorney, is facing Sessions in Texas' 32nd congressional district. A late September New York Times and Siena College poll shows both president-endorsed candidates in a virtually tied race. See above for who Trump has endorsed in Texas so far. A San Antonio man is accused of shooting two pit bulls on the city's North Side Friday evening after the dogs allegedly mauled his cat to death. Victor Senon Valdez, the 38-year-old cat owner, was arrested on suspicion of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and two counts of animal cruelty following the attack, police said. Jaws, the older dog who was turning six that day, sustained a bullet to the nose. He was taken to VCA Becker Animal Hospital and Pet Resort for treatment and is now recovering at home, though the bullet is still lodged in his body, said his owner, Amanda Espinosa. Jaws' son, Zeus, who was nearly two years old, was shot four to six times and died at the scene, Espinosa said. "It was a very horrible day," Espinosa told mySA.com, describing it as "dealing with the death of a family member, basically." Valdez could not be reached for comment. RELATED: Stolen ACS dog found, suspect arrested from West Side home For the past two years, Espinosa's good friend and dog walker has been taking her dogs on runs daily, typically along the same route, Espinosa said. In Espinosa's five years living in the area, neighbors had never complained about the dogs, and neither of the animals had hurt an animal or a person, Espinosa said. On Friday evening, the dog walker was riding his bike while Jaws and Zeus ran beside him off-leash, according to the police report. Shortly before 6 p.m. near the corner of Schmeltzer Lane and Allena Drive, the two dogs spotted a cat, ran toward it, and mauled it, right outside the cat's home, the dog walker told police. Valdez walked outside his home and asked if the dogs had killed his cat. The dog walker confirmed they had. Valdez then pulled out a gun and pointed it at the dog walker, according to police. "I'll (expletive) shoot you and those dogs," he allegedly said, before firing the gun multiple times at the animals. The dog walker stepped back, later telling the police he felt his life was in danger. RELATED: San Antonio's Animal Care Services cites irresponsible pet ownership in recent dog attacks Jaws was shot in the nose and ran off, leaving a bloody trail, Espinosa said. Zeus was shot multiple times in the torso area while several witnesses including a young girl watched, Espinosa said. The dog walker ran off and found Jaws, and neighbors took them both to the animal hospital. "My dog walker wasn't being aggressive with the owner at all. There was no anger, no argument, no nothing. It was out of nowhere," Espinosa said. "These dogs are not violent, they're not aggressive. I get it: they're pit bulls and they have a stereotype to go with them. But at the same time, what happened was uncalled for." Valdez told police he shot the dogs while his pet cat was being mauled in order to save his pet. Witnesses told officers they didn't know whether or not the dogs had killed the cat, but when the cat's owner pulled a gun on them, they were "not actively mauling the cat and (the witnesses) felt the threat of the dogs was not present," according to the police report. Witnesses still on scene told Espinosa Valdez had picked up Zeus from the street and laid him on his own property, she said. A neighbor called 911 and police were dispatched to the area for a shooting. By the time Espinosa arrived on scene, police were investigating and would not allow her to see Zeus, she said. Espinosa said neither she nor the neighbors she spoke with had met the man with the gun. RELATED: Meet Penelope, San Antonio's 1st funeral home support dog In the days since, Espinosa has been trying to care for Jaws. She didn't have enough money to leave him at the animal hospital, so she's treating him on her own, she said. He's having trouble breathing, but is otherwise in stable condition. "He's trying to do things like he normally does, but of course he has restrictions so it's kind of hard," she said. "He's a little depressed because he knows his fun is not allowed any more." Shes raising money through a GoFundMe campaign in the hopes of removing the bullet thats still lodged in his body. RELATED: Owner of more than 100 snakes seized from South Side last week surrenders animals to ACS She told her two young daughters that one of their dogs ran away and the other was hit by a car, she said. She's still trying to figure out how to explain the blood-trail left by Jaws. Her words to other dog owners? Leash your dogs. "I know it's wrong to have them off leashes and I regret not having them on the leash," Espinosa said. "People should not think that the city's being a little bit too dramatic about the leash law because it's not just for (the dogs') own good, but it's for their owners good because otherwise you have to deal with something like this. It's not a good feeling, and if I'd just had them on leashes maybe this wouldn't have happened. Maybe." Warning: graphic photo included in gallery above. S. M. Chavey is a staff writer for mySA.com. Read more of her stories here. | sarah.chavey@express-news.net | 210-250-3122 | Twitter: @smchavey NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said Wednesday the hole that caused an air leak in the International Space Station in August wasn't necessarily drilled maliciously -- even though Russian officials have determined it was not a manufacturer's defect. This determination "indicates that this is an isolated issue which does not categorically affect future production," Bridenstine said in a statement Wednesday. "This conclusion does not necessarily mean the hole was created intentionally or with mal-intent." The leak was discovered Aug. 30 in Russia's Soyuz spacecraft attached to the space station. The Soyuz has been the only way to ferry astronauts to and from the space station since the space shuttle program was shuttered in 2011. But the compromised part of the Soyuz does not return to Earth and the patch astronauts put in last month is holding. After the hole was discovered, Russia immediately launched an investigation initially estimated to be complete in September into how the hole occurred, whether it was intentional and if other Soyuz modules currently in development also have defects. Russian officials now say the investigation won't be complete until November. The Russians initially thought the hole was the result of space debris, but they later said it likely was the result of sloppy drill work, either on Earth or in space. BLAME: Hole that caused air leak in International Space Station made by 'human hand,' Russia says "It is a matter of honor," Roscosmos state space corporation head Dmitry Rogozin previously said, "...to find the one responsible for that, to find out whether it was an accidental defect or a deliberate spoilage and where it was done either on Earth or in space." That comment drew ire from NASA astronaut Drew Feustel, who currently is living on the station. Last week, he told ABC News that it was "a shame and somewhat embarrassing that anybody is wasting any time talking about something that the crew was involved in." 'A SHAME:' NASA astronaut says hole in the International Space Station did not happen on orbit A spacewalk to examine the hole is tentatively planned for November and the next launch to the space station -- scheduled for Oct. 11 carrying NASA astronaut Nick Hague -- still is expected to happen. RUSSIA 'COMMITTED' TO SAFETY: NASA astronaut's preparation for October flight continues without interruption Bridenstine will meet with Rogozin ahead of that launch, which happens in Kazakhstan. Space station astronauts immediately patched the hole in the Soyuz after it was discovered and state run news agency TASS reported last month that it had been cleared for flight. 'I TRUST THEM': Astronaut confident Russia will figure out source of hole "The manned spacecraft Soyuz MS-09 has been authorized for further flight as part of Russia's segment of the ISS and for being used as a rescue capsule," Soyuz manufacturer Energia said in a news release, according to TASS. Alex Stuckey covers NASA and the environment for the Houston Chronicle. You can reach her at alex.stuckey@chron.com or Twitter.com/alexdstuckey. As part of the Houston Chronicle's election coverage, we invited candidates in Houston's midterm elections to answer questions on key issues facing the state. Among other questions, we asked each candidate to identify their top three priorities. Answers from candidates in the most-watched races are presented in the accompanying gallery. (Not every candidate responded to the survey.) More citizens registered to vote in Harris County between March and September than any other Texas county, according to data released by the secretary of state. Adjusted for population, Harris County registered more new voters than the average county during that period, adding 55,482 to its rolls. The county, the most populous in Texas, has around 2.3 million voters. The deadline to register in time for the November election is Oct. 9. The registration surge comes even as the office of the county tax assessor-collector, which also maintains the voter roll, has been without a director of voter registration for nearly a year. MORE: Post-primary surge pushes Texas voter registration to 15.6 million According to human resources records, the most recent voter registration director resigned in October 2017. Records indicate Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector Ann Harris Bennett's chief of staff, Michael Lykes, took over those duties. Bennett fired Lykes in mid-August, three days after her communications director quit. Another "team lead processing" position in the voter registration division has been vacant since March, records show. Bennett declined to answer questions about the vacancies or whether she intends to fill them. In August, her office mistakenly placed the registrations of more than 1,700 voters on its suspension list in response to a Harris County Republican Party official's challenge of 4,000 registrations. She said the error was corrected within days. Sam Taylor, spokesman for Secretary of State Rolando Pablos, said the vacancies have had no effect on Harris County's ability to file voter registration data with the state. Houston League of Women Voters President Linda Cohn said she also has yet to notice the vacancies hamper the ability of Harris County to process registration applications from their voter drives. "We have always worked closely with the tax assessor-collector," Cohn said. "Their staff has been cooperative with us, especially with naturalization ceremonies." Zach Despart covers Harris County for the Chronicle. You can follow him on Twitter or email him at zach.despart@chron.com. Republican incumbent Greg Abbott is going up against two little-known opponents this November, Democrat Lupe Valdez and Libertarian Mark Tippetts. Valdez, the former Dallas County Sheriff, has made history as the first openly gay and first Latina nominated by a major party for governor in the state. Tippetts is a former City Councilman in Lago Vista, a Hill Country town outside Austin. Abbott has led Valdez in the polls by double-digit margins since early in the race and holds a large fundraising advantage over his opponents. Valdez spent $113,000 on campaign advertising during the first half of 2018, a fraction of the $19 million spent by Abbotts campaign, according to campaign finance reports. View each candidates profile below. View each candidates profile below. Study the issues, hear from the candidates and research what's on the ballot with our Voter Guide on HoustonChronicle.com. Elizabeth Conley, Staff Photographer / Houston Chronicle Gregory Wayne Abbott Party: Republican Age: 60 Hometown: Austin Bio: Born in Wichita Falls. Paralyzed from the waist down at age 26 when a tree fell on him in Houston in 1984. Served as a state district judge and Texas Supreme Court justice. Elected attorney general in 2001. Elected governor in 2014. Wife is first Latina first lady of Texas. One child. Issues: Reform property taxes and school finance, improve public education and provide better school security, continue to grow the economy, new programs to hire and provide more services to veterans and military personnel, bail reform to ensure violence-prone suspects stay in jail, protect Second Amendment rights and advocate of spending $1.6 billion in state funds since 2015 to beef up security along the Texas border. He called for the repeal of the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program that provided legal status to immigrants who were brought to the country illegally as children. Web: GregAbbott.com Twitter: GregAbbott_TX Ask a question: Texans for Greg Abbott on Facebook Finances: Raised more than $50 million through June, with nearly $29 million still in the bank. Chances: Early in the race, established a double-digit lead in the polls over challenger Lupe Valdez and bought $16 million in TV ads. Surprise: Takes his wife to Whataburger after church some Sundays. Quote: "When you elected me Governor, I promised you a Texas that would create jobs and promote opportunity. I promised to cut taxes, improve education, build more roads, and take action to secure our border. With your help, we delivered on those promises and so much more. But we're just getting started. Together, we will keep Texas the most exceptional state in America." Our coverage: Find the latest stories at HoustonChronicle.com/election. *** Mark Tippetts Mark Tippetts Party: Libertarian Age: 59 Hometown: Lago Vista Bio: Born in Mexico. Degrees in business and law from Universidad Abierta in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. In the past 30 years, has established and operates several companies including a law firm in Monterrey, Mexico. Bilingual. Currently works as an international legal and business consultant for businesses and individuals who do business in Mexico and Latin America. Unsuccessful candidate for Travis County Judge in 2010. Served on Lago Vista City Council. Married with four children. Issues: Opposes a border wall, any income tax and the death penalty. Supports limited government, the elimination of property taxes, legalizing marijuana, protecting individual liberties, repeal of the Patriot Act, leaving reproductive rights to individuals and free-market sustainability. Calls for a more efficient and less costly path to citizenship for immigrants and that DACA recipients should be protected until a more efficient path to citizenship is available. Web: Mark4Gov.com Twitter: Mark4Gov Ask a question: Mark Tippetts for Texas Governor on Facebook Finances: Has not yet filed a disclosure report. Chances: Polls this summer showed him with less than five percent support statewide, trailing Greg Abbott and Lupe Valdez. Surprise: Once operated a company with a hydroelectric plant in Belize. Quote: "As governor, I would seek to eliminate policies that favor large corporations over small businesses and bring true free market approaches to the Texas economy . . . I want to help break the two-party duopoly and grow the Libertarian Party. As a candidate for Governor of Texas, I think someone needs to be on the ballot that will oppose the embarrassing behavior of Donald Trump and his absurd attacks on immigrants and building of walls. I am bilingual and do a lot of business in Mexico. Making enemies with our neighbors and erecting walls between us is foolish." Our coverage: Search our Voter Guide to read more about Tippetts' priorities for Texas. *** Richard W. Rodriguez, FRE / Associated Press Guadalupe "Lupe" Valdez Party: Democrat Age: 70 Hometown: Dallas Bio: San Antonio native. Daughter of migrant farm workers. Has a degree in business administration from Bethany Nazarene College in Oklahoma and a masters in criminology and criminal justice from the University of Texas at Arlington. Was a private in the U.S. National Guard, worked as a corrections officer at the Federal Bureau of Prisons in Seagoville, Texas, and was a captain in U.S. Army Reserves. Worked as an investigator for several federal agencies including the U.S. Customs Bureau and Department of Homeland Security. Retired to become sheriff. Served as Dallas County sheriff since 2005, and resigned to run for governor. First lesbian to serve as sheriff in Dallas. No children. Issues: Opposes ban on sanctuary cities, voter ID law, border wall and the death penalty. Supports abortion rights, property tax reform, comprehensive immigration reform including a path to citizenship for immigrants who are in the country illegally, banning silencers and bump stocks, limitations on gun ownership for mentally unstable and domestic-violence suspects, Planned Parenthood funding, LGBTQ initiatives and Medicaid expansion. Web: LupeValdez.com Twitter: LupeValdez Ask a question: Lupe for Texas on Facebook Finances: Raised more than $742,000 in the first half of the year, much of that since May, with $222,000 in the bank at the end of June. Chances: Valdez has trailed incumbent Greg Abbott by more than 10 percent since August, poll results show. Surprise: As a child in San Antonio, Valdez took a crosstown bus every day to attend better schools than those in the neighborhood where she lived. Quote: "From migrant farmworker to U.S. Army Captain, federal agent to the very proud sheriff of the good people of Dallas County, I've dedicated my life to defending Texans and I'm not done yet . . . I'm not going to be the governor of my rich donors, I'm going to be the governor of the people who are seeking genuine, everyday life answers." Our coverage: Search our Voter Guide to read more about Valdez's priorities for Texas. The race between Republican incumbent Sen. Ted Cruz and Democratic Congressman Beto ORourke has become one of the most watched contests in the nation this election season. ORourke, an El Paso congressman since 2012, has built a surprisingly strong campaign in a state that hasnt elected a Democrat to statewide office since 1994. Polls have shown a closer race than many expected at the start of the year. In the first half of 2018, ORourke managed to raise more than twice as much campaign money as Cruz, the runner-up to Trump for the 2016 GOP nomination for president. The Cruz-ORourke race has national impact as Republicans try to hold onto their slim majority in the U.S. Senate. View each candidates profile below. Study the issues, hear from the candidates and research what's on the ballot with our Voter Guide on HoustonChronicle.com. Godofredo A. Vasquez, Staff photographer / Staff photographer Beto ORourke Party: Democrat Age: 46 Hometown: El Paso, Texas Bio: Fourth-generation Texan born and raised in El Paso. Graduated from Columbia University with a degree in English and worked in New York before moving back to El Paso to start a technology company. Ran for El Paso City Council in 2005 and served two terms. Elected to U.S. Congress in 2012 and served on the House Committees for Armed Services and Veterans Affairs. Three children. Issues: Opposes the border wall and has championed a path to citizenship for DACA recipients. Opposed GOP tax cuts. Supports universal background checks and a ban or restrictions on the sale of AR-15s and other assault-style rifles. Supports the Affordable Care Act and abortion rights. Web: Beto for Texas Twitter: BetoORourke Ask a question: Beto ORourke on Facebook Finances: Raised more than $10.4 million during the first half of 2018, more than doubling the $4.6 million raised by Republican U.S. Sen Ted Cruz. Chances: September polls showed ORourke trailing behind incumbent Ted Cruz by nearly a 10-point margin, but other polls have shown a closer race. Surprise: In the early 1990s, ORourke toured the United States and Canada with his punk-rock band Foss. Quote: "We are going to be not-against anyone. We're not going to be against any party. We're not going to be organized and animated against anything. We are going to be for one another. We're going to be for the United States of America, for the great state of Texas, for the big bold ambitious things that we can only do together." Our coverage: Texas U.S. Sen. candidate Beto O'Rourke is throwing out the Democrat playbook for Texas with dozens of campaign trips to small towns in rural Texas. But will his work in far-flung Republican strongholds like Muleshoe, Archer City and Fort Davis pay off in November? Click here to read our full coverage. *** Godofredo A. Vasquez/Staff photographer Ted Cruz Party: Republican Age: 47 Hometown: Houston, Texas Bio: Father was tortured and imprisoned in Cuba and fled the United States to attend the University of Texas at Austin in 1957. Cruz earned a bachelors degree in public policy at Princeton University and went to Harvard Law School, where he won honors on the debate team. Worked as an attorney and served as an adviser on the 2000 presidential campaign of George W. Bush. Became the solicitor general of Texas after working as an associate deputy attorney general at the Department of Justice. Was an adjunct law professor at the University of Texas School of Law from 2004 to 2009. Went back into private practice before being elected to the Senate in 2012. Ran for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination. Two children. Issues: Supports the border wall and has derided as "amnesty" any plan that gives legal status or citizenship to people living in the country illegally, such as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. Leading supporter of the Republican tax cut plan. Has resisted banning assault-style rifles, raising the age for buying long guns, and expanding background checks for firearms sales. Opposes the Affordable Care Act and abortion. Web: Ted Cruz for Senate. Twitter: Ted Cruz Ask a question: Ted Cruz on Facebook. Finances: Raised $4.6 million during the first half of 2018, less than half of the $10.4 million raised by challenger Beto ORourke. Chances: September polls showed Cruz leading ORourke by nearly a 10-point margin. Surprise: Was an editor of the Harvard Law Review and founder of the Harvard Latino Law Review. Quote: Ive got a responsibility, which is to fight for every person in this state. I have worked hand-in-hand with the President on substance. We have delivered remarkable victories. The biggest tax cuts of a generation. Weve seen four million new jobs created since Trump was elected. Texans lives are better. Our coverage: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz once Donald Trump's biggest adversary now is singing Trump's praises as he tries to win re-election in the Senate. Click here to read our full coverage. *** More than 2,000 potential voters in Texas had their voters registration applications unfairly rejected by the Texas Secretary of State, a national advocacy group said Wednesday. Those voters will be barred from voting on Nov. 6 unless they re-submit updated applications with new signatures on them, according to the Secretary of States office, which will send affected voters the paperwork by mail. It must be resubmitted to the state within 10 days. Vote.org, a nonpartisan group, said it helped 2,400 Texans from Dallas, Bexar, Cameron and Travis counties submit voter registration applications that use digital photographs of their signatures. Only at HoustonChronicle.com: Get informed with our general election voter guide State officials say the applications submitted by the group do not comply with Texas law. Voter registration applications must include a handwritten signature, and that signature cannot be a copy, digital signature or photograph of a signature, according to a spokesman for the Texas Secretary of State. Our Elections Division instructed Vote.org to change their process immediately in order to comply with state law and avoid misleading Texas voters into submitting invalid registration forms, said Sam Taylor, a spokesman for the Texas Secretary of States office. The deadline for voters to register for the Nov. 6 election is Oct. 9. But those being directed to resubmit their paperwork via mail with corrected signatures will still have 10 days to do so, Taylor said. Texas election law is not clear as to whether a handwritten signature is necessary. It calls for a voter registration to be submitted by personal delivery, by mail, or by telephonic facsimile machine and states that it must be in writing and signed by the applicant. Lawyers for Vote.org disagree with the Secretary of States interpretation and say they reserve all rights to challenge it. They say there is nothing in the election code requiring a handwritten signature. Still, they are changing the way they help Texas voters sign up by directing them to mail in a form that includes a handwritten signature. More Information How to Register to Vote in Texas ONLINE: - Fill out a voter registration form via the Texas Secretary of State: https://www.votetexas.gov/index.html - Mail it to the local County Voter Registrar (That can be the Tax Assessor-Collector in many counties, or the County Clerk in others). IN PERSON: - You can register in person at the county Voter Registrar's office. (In most Texas counties, the Tax Assessor-Collector is also the Voter Registrar. In some counties, the County Clerk or Elections Administrator registers voters.) - Or you can register by mail by obtaining an application from your county Voter Registrar's office or pick up applications at libraries, government offices, or high schools. See More Collapse KAVANAUGH BATTLE: Sheila Jackson Lee intern arrested for 'doxing' GOP senators Raven Brooks, chief operating officer for Vote.org, said the states actions are frustrating and explain why Texas has some of the worst voter registration and voter participation rates in the nation. He says the Secretary of States office throws up roadblocks to that participation. Brooks said hes worried that some of the potential voters who tried to register with help from his group are not going to see their mail in time or just not follow through with another step to get registered. Texas is already reporting a record surge in voter registration heading into the midterm elections. The state last week reported 15.6 million voters are registered for the 2018 midterm elections about 1.6 million more than the last midterm election in 2014. Just since March, Texas has seen the voter rolls grow by about 400,000. Texas is one of 12 states that do not allow online voter registration, which is allowed in 38 states plus the District of Columbia. This election season, Vote.org was working directly with the four counties to boost registration. Brooks said the plan was to see how those registration efforts went and then expand the program to other counties. Vote.Org officials said the online tool they created enabled Texans to register to vote under the provision of the Texas Election Code that allows registration by fax with a copy of the application sent by mail within four business days. With the tool, voters were able to capture their signatures electronically, submit their forms by fax, and initiate the printing and mailing of a copy of their form to county officials. Taylor said the problem was that Vote.org was affixing voters' digital signatures to the applications for the voters, which is not only illegal in Texas but also creates a risk for fraud and abuse. This is hardly the first time rules in Texas on voter registration signatures have created a problem. Civil rights groups sued the state in 2016, arguing that the different systems for online and in-person registrants violates the federal National Voter Registration Act, often called Motor Voter. While the state accepts electronic signatures from people who go to a Texas Department of Public Safety Office to change a voter registration, it does not accept changes submitted through the states online drivers license system. The Texas Civil Rights Project says the states practices create confusion for potentially thousands of voters who think theyve changed their voting information, but in fact have not. jeremy.wallace@chron.com NATO defense ministers meeting at Alliance headquarters in Brussels from Wednesday will discuss their concerns that Russian Federation is building a medium-range ballistic missile in violation of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, U.S. Ambassador Kay Bailey Hutchison said. Russia has long feared that US missile shields could be used covertly to preemptively target the man who controls the Russian nuclear arsenal - Russian President Vladimir Putin. Hutchison was referring to the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF), which bans the use of all nuclear and conventional missiles, as well as their launchers, that have ranges of between 500km and 5,500km. The alliance says that the Russian system fits into that category. However, U.S. officials have always maintained that its systems on the Continent are geared toward long-range missile threats from conflict areas such as the Middle East. "At that point, we would be looking at the capability to take out a (Russian) missile that could hit any of our countries", Hutchison told a news conference. Some social media users reacted with alarm over words they described as "dangerous" and "foolhardy", with the potential to further inflame highly strained relations between Russian Federation and the West. Indeed, other United States experts have sometimes suggested that a more likely USA response might be to throw over the INF treaty itself and deploy a similar category of weapon. Moscow denies that it is doing anything untoward, and claims in turn that US missile systems are in breach of the agreement. The document contains, among other things, allegations that Moscow violated the INF Treaty. That missile has now moved beyond the test phase and has a "fully operational unit", the Times cited USA officials as having said. In this October 30, 2017, file photo, U.S. Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis testifies during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington. U.S. Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis said he would discuss the issue with his North Atlantic Treaty Organisation counterparts at a scheduled two-day meeting in Brussels from Wednesday. "We expect Russian Federation to continue to deploy, but we ask Russian Federation to provide answers, to be transparent, and come into compliance with the treaty in a transparent way". Although U.S. officials have long denied that is the goal of their missile defense efforts, Hutchison's comments fed directly into the Russian concerns. "I'll return with the advice of our allies and engage in that discussion to determine the way ahead". The U.S. warned that it could resort to strikes against a new class of Russian missile unless Moscow complies with its worldwide commitments to arms reduction. "This treaty is in danger because of Russia's actions", NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters. "Countermeasures [by the United States] would be to take out the missiles that are in development by Russian Federation in violation of the treaty", she added. The U.S. accusations are likely to further strain relations between Moscow and the West that are at a low over Russia's 2014 seizure of Crimea, its bombing campaign in Syria and accusations of Russian meddling in Western elections. But I think the question was what would you do if this continues to a point where we know that they are capable of delivering. Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif praised the court ruling on Twitter, calling it "another failure for sanctions-addicted" US and a "victory for rule of law". The International Court of Justice ruled on Wednesday that the USA must lift sanctions on Iran that could hinder humanitarian imports to the Islamic Regime. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani praised Europe on Wednesday for taking a "big step" towards maintaining business with Iran after the unilateral United States withdrawal from a 2015 nuclear deal and re-imposition of new sanctions on the Islamic republic. Next month, new USA restrictions will target oil sales, Iran's energy and shipping sectors, and foreign financial institutions transacting with Iran's Central Bank. That year it brought a suit at the ICJ against the freezing of around $2 billion of Iranian assets overseas which United States courts say should go to American victims of terror attacks. The judgement comes as a moral victory for Iran's President Hassan Rouhani, who had accused the United States of being violative of the 1955 treaty of Amity between the two nations. However, Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif has said the door remains open to talks with the United States, as long as the meeting is "reliable" and the talks meaningful. "Imperative for int'l community to collectively counter malign United States unilateralism", he added in a tweet. The court unanimously said that the USA must remove trade sanctions on medicines and medical devices, foodstuffs and agricultural commodities, spare part and equipments necessary for the safety of civil aviation. At the General Assembly last week, Trump said that "the United States will provide no support in recognition to the International Criminal Court". The US in August had offered assurance to the court that their sanctions would not affect the humanitarian grounds. Vafayi told AFP, "As far as I know, there is no official statement on sanctioning medicine trade with Iran". According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N.'s nuclear energy watchdog, has not violated the terms of the nuclear agreement. "The court considers that the United States must, in line with its obligations under the 1955 treaty, remove by means of its choosing any impediment arising from the measures announced on 8 May 2018", Reuters quoted Presiding Judge Abdulqawi Yusuf, reading a summary of a ruling by the 15-member panel of justices. The United States must also ensure that licenses and authorizations are granted and that payment for such goods and services are not subject to any restrictions. Diplomatic relations were severed following the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran and takeover of the U.S. Embassy and ensuing hostage crisis. As a result, the private Iranian institutions that facilitate payments for humanitarian goods could be hindered by broader USA restrictions on both Iranian entities and the country's banking sector. Iran's economy has been under enormous pressure with many people suffering hardship, and recent months have brought a wave of anti-government protests. The U.S. intends to reimpose sanctions on the regime's crude oil exports in November. The depreciation, coupled with rising prices and high unemployment, have squeezed the finances of ordinary Iranians. The sanctions also come as Iran's currency, the rial, has lost some two-thirds of its value in the last six months. Washington Democrats and liberal media outlets have spent so much time on their search and destroy mission against Judge Brett Kavanaugh that they have barely been able to keep up with their love affair with Rep. Beto ORourke, D-Texas. ORourkes race against Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, has become the latest heartthrob and cause of the fashionable new left. Think of ORourke as a wannabe variant of North Carolinas John Edwards circa 1998. Like Edwards 20 years ago, ORourke is glib, hip and full of todays most shallow platitudes. He is wrapped in a package of youth and modern liberalism. As is the case with a lot of Democratic candidates these days, ORourke needs to speak in banalities. On HoustonChronicle.com: Face the facts: Beto will lose He is completely illiterate when it comes to talking about the economic environment - including relaxed regulatory burdens and a friendly tax system - that has made Texas a powerhouse for growth and jobs. ORourke would rather stick with left-wing slogans than discuss specifics on the issues as his precise policy positions can be debilitating, particularly in Texas where he declared his opposition to Kavanaugh back in July and has a long history of supporting abortion across the board. But that doesnt matter to the vapid, glossy-profile writers fawning over his candidacy. Just see what Esquire, Rolling Stone and Mother Jones to name only a few have to say about the Democrats new poster boy. We saw this next big Texas Democrat story play out four years ago in Wendy Davis. Remember, Davis was the liberal pro-abortion crusader who many thought would seriously challenge Republican nominee Greg Abbott for the office of governor. She ultimately lost by an embarrassing 20 points. Not to be deterred, ORourkes supporters swoon. No exaggeration is thought too much, including doe-eyed comparisons to John F. Kennedy. Vanity Fair went so far as to say ORourke is the Kennedyesque Democrat trying to beat Ted Cruz. There is even already speculation about whether ORourke will run for president in 2020. He doesnt appear the slightest bit embarrassed by any of this. Meanwhile, all the syrupy fawning over ORourke has caught the attention of fact checkers and Republican opposition researchers and we are beginning to see some findings pop up that might bring ORourke back down to Earth. The Washington Posts Fact Checker gave ORourke four Pinocchios after he claimed he did not try to leave the scene of an accident he caused while driving under the influence. And since its fair game these days, ORourke is guilty of having authored a publication that offered some unflattering remarks about female actresses and their physical appearances. Of course, he is apologizing and it is unlikely the media will pursue it. After all, he was only 19. But it wont be fact checkers or opposition research that dooms ORourke. It will be that he is wrong for Texas. Despite Democratic fantasies, the Lone Star State remains solidly Republican and pro-Trump country. Democrats and their media allies will do all they can to prop up ORourke, but they cant do the impossible. Reality-check: According to FiveThirtyEight, Cruz votes with President Donald Trump 90.9 percent of the time compared with ORourkes 28.9 percent. And the National Federation of Independent Business says he votes 0 percent to support small businesses compared with Cruzs 100 percent. No wonder FiveThirtyEight has Cruz as the heavy favorite. ORourke can run but he cannot hide. Rogers is a contributor to the PostPartisan blog, a political consultant and a veteran of the Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush White Houses and several national campaigns. He is the chairman of the lobbying and communications firm BGR Group. Until the incident, Israel and Russian Federation had successfully operated a delicately balanced direct military coordination mechanism meant to limit accidental clashes due to conflicting interests in Syria. The more capable S-300s could aide Syrian air defenses in targeting USA jets that operate in the region. Israel has long sought to persuade Russian Federation not to supply Syria with the S-300. Israel, which insists Syria's military was to blame, has warned that giving the S-300 to "irresponsible actors" would make the highly volatile region even more unsafe. The video shows the enormous front cargo doors of the aircraft opening up, through which the Russian servicemen rapidly unload an S-300 launcher, radar and control vehicles, as well as the mounting of surface-to-air interceptor missile tubes onto a hauling unit. It said Israel had failed to give it adequate notice of the attack, putting the Russian aircraft in the path of Syrian air defence systems. More than 18,000 people, almost half of them civilians, have been killed in Russian air strikes on Syria since Moscow began its game-changing intervention exactly three years ago, a monitor said Sunday. He said the anti-aircraft system "will be devoted to [ensuring] 100 percent safety and security of our men in Syria". The Russian military intervention in the Syrian Civil War began in September 2015, after an official request by the Syrian government. While it is not Russia's most advanced surface-to-air missile system, it has been likened by experts to the US Patriot Air and Missile Defense System. Israel has repeatedly hit targets in Syria in recent years, most recently earlier this month in Latakia province when Syrian military shot down a Russian military reconnaissance plane, killing all 15 people on board. But the delivery of the S-300 to Syria makes Israeli jets far more vulnerable in any future operations in the country. Russia's news agencies said at the time that the plane had "disappeared during an attack by four Israeli F-16 jets on Syrian facilities". "We will take actions as required", he said. "We have not changed our strategic line on Iran", Israeli Education Minister Naftali Bennett, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's security cabinet, said on Tuesday. The delivery comes despite strong objections from Israel and the United States. Russian Federation is a key ally of Syrian President Bashar Assad, and its intervention in the civil war, beginning in 2015, turned the tide in his favor. Moscow has tried to maintain good relations with Iran, which is also allied with the Syrian government, and Israel, which is wary of Iran's growing influence in Syria. Congress continues to rank dead-last in the most recent Gallup poll of public confidence in institutions. Its no surprise: when representatives and senators arent squabbling, posturing, and at one anothers throats, such as during Brett Kavanaughs Supreme Court confirmation hearings, theyre saying and doing things that strain credulity. Its no coincidence that insulting the intelligence of members of Congress is such a staple of American folk wisdom. Suppose you were an idiot, and suppose you were a member of Congress. But I repeat myself, quipped Mark Twain. When Congress makes a joke its a law, and when they make a law, its a joke, said Will Rogers. Too often, though, the joke is on us. A friend of mine was seated at a banquet table with the family of a then-congressman from Kansas. Family members expressed relief at the congressmans career in politics because none of them thought that he was smart enough to enter the family businessprocessing scrap metal. When I was debating what became the 2008 Farm Bill, said Colorado congressman John Salazar, I had a member of the Agriculture Committee actually ask me if chocolate milk really comes from brown cows. I asked if he was joking and he assured me he wasnt. Thats in the same category as the concern of Representative Hank Johnson that stationing 8,000 U.S. military personnel on Guam would cause the island to become so overly populated that it will tip over and capsize. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas once proclaimed that the U.S. Constitution was 400 years old. And as a member of the House Science Committee, Lee, during a visit to the Mars Pathfinder Operations Center, asked a NASA scientist whether the Pathfinder probe had photographed the flag that astronaut Neil Armstrong left behind in 1969. Armstrong had, of course, left the flag on the moon. In 2010, Lee proclaimed on the House floor that victory had been achieved by the United States in the Vietnam War and that today, we have two Vietnams: side-by-side, north and south, exchanging and working. Lee was a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee when she made that statement. I once attended a conference at which Representative Tom Bliley of Virginia then-chairman of the powerful House Commerce Committeespoke by teleconference. As he read from a prepared statement, he included the instructionssuch as pause for emphasisthat had been inserted by his speechwriter. Where one line had been inadvertently duplicated, Bliley read it a second time. Carelessness? Intoxication? Senility? Dont voters have a right to know? Former senator Pete Domenici of New Mexico was sufficiently forthright to reveal in 2007 that he had been diagnosed with frontotemporal lobar degenerationan inexorably progressive, incurable disease characterized by the wasting away of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Because of the behavioral changes and dementia that accompany this condition, Domenici announced that he would not seek reelection the following year. I had great sympathy for Domenici, but he should have resigned at the time his illness was diagnosed; his constituents deserved that. Speaking of brain pathology and dementia, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi has been slurring her speech and having difficulty pronouncing words. It was especially evident during a press briefing in June but has been noticeable since at least April of last year. This is not normal. As a voter and taxpayer, but also as a physician, I worry about whether people in such condition are fit to serve. Perhaps we should ask candidates (and incumbents), including the president and vice president, to volunteer for periodic testing of intelligence, mental status, and psychopathology. After all, we often demand to know whether a candidate has recovered from open-heart surgery, cancer, or strokes, and many states require elderly drivers to get relicensed. Testing could answer speculations about mental fitness, one way or the other. A mental-status exam offers an assessment of cognitive abilities, memory, and thought processes. It includes assessments of alertness, speech, behavior, awareness of environment, mood, affect, rationality of thought processes, appropriateness of thought content (presence of delusions, hallucinations, or phobias), memory, ability to perform simple calculations, judgment (If you found a letter on the ground in front of a mailbox, what would you do with it?), and higher reasoning, such as the ability to interpret proverbs (such as a stitch in time saves nine). A useful adjunct would be the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory, or MMPI, a standardized test of personality traits and psychopathology commonly used by psychologists. An intelligence test measures various parameters thought to correlate with academic or financial achievement. Every politician need not be a genius, but Id like the ones who represent me to know that islands dont capsize with the arrival of a few thousand military personnel. Congress consists of one-third, more or less, scoundrels; two-thirds, more or less, idiots; and three-thirds, more or less, poltroons, H.L. Mencken observed. Testing might help us weed out a few idiots. Getting rid of the scoundrels and poltroons will have to wait. Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images Melting Pot or Civil War? A Son of Immigrants Makes the Case Against Open Borders, by Reihan Salam (Penguin, 224 pp., $27) In 2007, Senators John McCain and Ted Kennedy introduced an immigration reform bill that I describednaivelyas promising, because both sides had made significant concessions. Kennedy, who backed the 1965 reform act that scrapped our old quotas and inaugurated the modern era of immigration, had signed his name to a new bill that would transform our legal system into one based on merit, not family ties; McCain, in turn, had called for a path to citizenship for some longtime illegal aliens, accompanied by tougher penalties for businesses that hired unauthorized workers. Though the bill wasnt perfect, its spirit of compromise prompted me to see it as a chance for real reform. Almost immediately, though, both sides started disparaging the deal. Presidential candidate Barack Obama claimed that most Americans ancestors would never have been allowed into the country under the new proposed merit systemignoring how previous waves of immigrants, such as those during the so-called Great Migration of a century ago, had come to America with skills in demand at that time. Immigration restrictionists, meantime, argued that their concerns had been shortchanged in previous compromises, so they couldnt trust this one. Since then, positions on both sides have hardened further. National Review executive editor Reihan Salam makes a new appeal for compromise in Melting Pot or Civil War? A Son of Immigrants Makes the Case Against Open Borders, a short but thoroughly argued book that cuts through much of the misunderstanding and misinformation about the immigration debate, and offers a new path to a solution. What distinguishes the book is Salams perspective as not only a child of immigrants but also the brother, neighbor and friend of immigrants, many of whom find President Donald Trumps rhetoric frightening. Salam can see both sides: on the one hand, hes sympathetic to immigrants challenges; on the other, hes distressed by open-borders advocates, who refuse to acknowledge the problems that masses of low-skilled immigrants present to government budgets and social cohesion. I suspect that Salam places himself in a category that he describes as the bullet biters, whom he describes as serious, rigorous, thoughtful immigration advocates who recognize that if the United States is going to welcome a far larger number of low-skill immigrants, we Americans will have to transform our welfare state, and we might even have to countenance the creation of a new class of guest workers who would be permanently barred from citizenship. Anyone engaging in the immigration debate who genuinely wants reform must be prepared to make compromises, Salam arguesbut how to get there? When the current immigration debate was reignited back in 2006 and 2007, many popular judgments about the value of immigrants were based on research about the newcomers from the immigration wave of 1880 through 1924, and their children. Though Emma Lazaruss poem describes your tired, your poor,/Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free/ The wretched refuse of your teeming shore, research by the so-called Jordan Commissionheaded by African-American congresswoman Barbara Jordan of Texas, and empaneled by President Clinton in the 1990sdemonstrated that many of those newcomers had education and skill levels closely aligned with those of the American population at the time. That so many succeeded quicklyearning salaries commensurate with American laborers after just a few years herewasnt unusual. But the American economy is far different today, and research on the current generation of immigrants shows an incompatibility between their skills and labor-market demands. Not all immigrants, Salam explains, are low-skilled workers; some 45 percent of immigrants from India, for instance, come from the countrys most educated classes. Its no surprise, then, that so many Indian immigrants flourish here. But the notion that many newcomers have similar poverty-defying powers doesnt comport with reality. For every Sergey Brin, a son of educated Russians who immigrated to America and cofounded Google, there are many low-skilled immigrants. Some 30 percent of the children of immigrants in America live with someone without a high school diploma. Their struggles in the U.S. educational system, a key step toward economic integration, are enormous. Just 5 percent of eighth-grade children of immigrants are proficient in math; most are likely to do no better than a high school education. The average male Mexican immigrant arrives in the United States with 9.4 years of schooling. That rises in the second generation, but to only 12.6 years, Salam writes. So how do we deal compassionately with a world in which many more poor, unskilled people want to come here than we can afford to take in, especially with a welfare state far larger, costlier, and more entrenched than the one that existed during the early twentieth century? Salam starts with a chapter on finding ways to lift people out of poverty where they already live, so that theyre less likely to feel the need to leave. Economic empowerment doesnt always figure in the immigration debate, but almost every year, 35 million people worldwide escape poverty, on a net basis. Still, an enormous number remain impoverished. Perhaps we should focus more intently on countries closest to us. As Salam notes, gains in the Mexican economy have helped slow the immigration flow from our southern neighbor. Problems in Central America, though, are motivating more people to find their way here. Its a tough battle, trying to transform other countries, especially when the job usually requires more than just U.S. economic aidreforming corrupt or inefficient political institutions is far more complicated. In the end, its what we do here that will most influence how immigration shapes the American future. Salams grand compromise involves offering amnesty to longtime illegal residents, moving to a merit-based legal system that favors immigrants likely to contribute to our economy, and investing in social programs aimed at helping end whats turning into an intergenerational poverty problem among low-skilled immigrants and their offspring. His detailed proposalsincluding tougher enforcement of the border on one hand and subsidies for poor immigrant children on the otherwill find objections across the ideological spectrum. Still, Salams personal experiences ground his optimism. He grew up in New York City during a time of racial and ethnic conflict and high crime. He watched crime go down and saw immigrants play a key role in revitalizing neighborhoods. Few were betting on those results back then, as I recall. An outcome equally as improbable on immigration will require compromises of just the sort that Salam lays out. He offers a roadmap out of our current immigration traffic jam. Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images A Conservative member of the House of Lords has criticised the NSPCC for a lack of transparency about its research into child abuse, during a fringe event at the Conservative Party Conference yesterday. Lord Lucas of Crudwell and Dingwall was speaking at an event organised by the Charities Aid Foundation on the subject of charities and technology. He said that artificial intelligence could make charities more transparent and singled out the NSPCC for criticism in this regard. He said the charity routinely sent out press announcements about research well ahead of the research itself. Lord Lucas said this makes it difficult to be in a position to question them and that some of the NSPCC's research in the past had problems. He went so far as to accuse the charity of having a "dubious" relationship with the truth. He said he suspected it was about raising money. He told Civil Society News that he had tried to raise his concerns with the charity over a number of years but had not had a response. For its part, NSPCC said it "totally refuted" the allegations. "We're baffled by Lord Lucas's reported remarks and we have no idea what research he is referring to," a spokesman for the charity said. "We would have thought it rather obvious that the reason we talk about the NSPCC's work in the media is to raise awareness of our cause and encourage support in the fight for every childhood. Everything we say is backed up by evidence. "We are transparent about our work and we publish information on how the public's money is spent on our website." AI could have stopped Kids Company Lucas also told the audience that AI is good for getting to grips with a lot of information and making it accessible. He said that this could have helped to prevent some of the issues with Kids Company - which collapsed in 2015 amid concerns that it was claiming to support more children than it was. With Kids Company the real problem was that information was not getting out there, Lucas said. He added that it could also help to identify zombie charities which have stopped achieving anything. Lucas said that making information about how charities operate more readily available to the public would in turn help to identify ways they could improve and see areas they could be collaborating more. People getting an understanding of what is going on would be a great help, he said, and would enable people to challenge issues. At the moment he said some charities assume that they can do what they want and there needs to be more responsibility for how they talk and have a better flow of information. He said: I look forward to the effects of AI on charities. For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector sign up to receive the Civil Society News daily bulletin here. An early warning system that might have prevented some deaths in the tsunami that hit an Indonesian island on Friday has been stalled in the testing phase for years. The high-tech system of seafloor sensors, data-laden sound waves and fiber-optic cable was meant to replace a system set up after an earthquake and tsunami killed nearly 250,000 people in the region in 2004. But inter-agency wrangling and delays in getting just 1 billion rupiah ($69,000) to complete the project mean the system hasnt moved beyond a prototype developed with $3 million from the U.S. National Science Foundation. It is too late for central Sulawesi, where walls of water up to 6 meters (20 feet) high and a magnitude 7.5 earthquake killed at least 832 people in the cities of Palu and Donggala, tragically highlighting the weaknesses of the existing warning system and low public awareness about how to respond to warnings. To me this is a tragedy for science, even more so a tragedy for the Indonesian people as the residents of Sulawesi are discovering right now, said Louise Comfort, a University of Pittsburgh expert in disaster management who has led the U.S. side of the project, which also involves engineers from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute and Indonesian scientists and disaster experts. Its a heartbreak to watch when there is a well-designed sensor network that could provide critical information, she said. After a 2004 tsunami killed 230,000 people in a dozen countries, more than half of them in the Indonesian province of Aceh, a concerted international effort was launched to improve tsunami warning capabilities, particularly in the Indian Ocean and for Indonesia, one of worlds most earthquake and tsunami-prone countries. Part of that drive, using funding from Germany and elsewhere, included deploying a network of 22 buoys connected to seafloor sensors to transmit advance warnings. A sizeable earthquake off Sumatra island in 2016 that caused panic in the coastal city of Padang revealed that none of the buoys costing hundreds of thousands of dollars each were working. Theyd been disabled by vandalism or theft or just stopped working due to a lack of funds for maintenance. The backbone of Indonesias tsunami warning system today is a network of 134 tidal gauge stations augmented by land-based seismographs, sirens in about 55 locations and a system to disseminate warnings by text message. When the 7.5 quake hit just after 6 p.m. Friday, the meteorology and geophysics agency issued a tsunami alert, warning of potential for waves of 0.5 to 3 meters (2 to 10 feet). It ended the warning at 6:36 p.m. That drew harsh online criticism, but the agencys head said the warning was lifted after the tsunami hit. Its unclear exactly what time tsunami waves rushed into the narrow bay that Palu is built around. The tide gauges are operating, but they are limited in providing any advance warning. None of the 22 buoys are functioning, Comfort said. In the Sulawesi incident, BMKG (the meteorology and geophysics agency) canceled the tsunami warning too soon, because it did not have data from Palu. This is the data the tsunami detection system could provide. Adam Switzer, a tsunami expert at the Earth Observatory of Singapore, said its a little unfair to say the agency got it wrong. What it shows is that the tsunami models we have now are too simplistic, he said. They dont take into account multiple events, multiple quakes within a short period of time. They dont take into account submarine landslides. Whatever system is in use, he said, the priority after an earthquake in a coastal area should be to get to higher ground and stay there for a couple of hours. Power outages after the earthquake struck meant that sirens meant to warn residents to evacuate did not work, said Harkunti P. Rahayu, an expert at the Institute of Technology in Bandung. Most people were shocked by the earthquake and did not pay any thought that a tsunami will come, she said. Experts say the prototype system deployed offshore from Padang a city extremely vulnerable to tsunamis because it faces a major undersea fault overdue for a massive quake can provide authoritative information about a tsunami threat within 1 to 3 minutes. That compares with 5 to 45 minutes from the now defunct buoys and the limited information provided by tidal gauges. The systems undersea seismometers and pressure sensors send data-laden sound waves to warm surface waters. From there they refract back into the depths, traveling 20 to 30 kilometers (12 to 20 miles) to the next node in the network and so on. The Padang networks final undersea point needs just a few more kilometers of fiber optic cable to connect it to a station on an offshore island where the cascades of data would be transmitted by satellite to the geophysics agency, which issues tsunami warnings, and to disaster officials. The Associated Press first reported on the system in January 2017, when the project was awaiting Indonesian funding to lay the cables. Since then, agencies involved have suffered budget cuts and the project bounced back and forth between them. A December 2017 quake off the coast of Java close to Jakarta reignited interest and the geophysics agency made getting funding a priority. In July, the Ministry of Finance in July approved funding to purchase and lay the cable. But at an inter-agency meeting in September, the three major agencies involved failed to agree on their responsibilities and the project was simply put on hold, Comfort said. Indonesian officials whove been supportive of the new early warning system did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Since the 2004 tsunami, the mantra among disaster officials in Indonesia has been that the earthquake is the tsunami warning and signal for immediate evacuation. Not everyone is convinced a tsunami detection system is essential. What Indonesian colleagues have commented upon is that people were confused about what to do with the alert information, said Gavin Sullivan, a Coventry University psychologist who works with the Indonesian Resilience Initiative on a disaster preparation project for the Indonesian city of Bandung. The fact that people were still milling around Palus shoreline when waves were visibly approaching shows the lessons of earlier disasters havent been absorbed. This points to the failing to do appropriate training and to develop trust so that people know exactly what to do when an alert is issued, he said. In our project in Bandung, were finding a similar unwillingness to prepare for something that seems unlikely. (Associated Press writer Margie Mason in Jakarta, Indonesia, contributed to this report.) Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Jurors weighing claims that Johnson & Johnsons iconic baby powder is laced with cancer-causing asbestos failed in a second case in two weeks to reach a verdict, resulting in another mistrial. The latest case was brought by a retired computer salesman who blamed J&J for his mesothelioma, a cancer linked to asbestos exposure, and sought more than $12 million in damages. The Los Angeles jury, which deliberated for several days before a state judge decided the panel was hopelessly deadlocked, voted 8-4 against J&J, one juror short of a victory for the plaintiff, Kirk Von Salzen. The mistrial is the second straight in lawsuits attempting to link the companys talc products to cancer. A Pasadena, California, jury also deadlocked a little over a week ago, in a lawsuit brought by a school counselor who blamed her mesothelioma on asbestos in J&J talc. Im satisfied with eight of 12 jurors seeing the evidence for what it was that Johnson & Johnson was callous with some safety protocols that led to the allowance of asbestos in their talc products, which caused Mr. Von Salzens disease, Stuart Purdy, Von Salzens lawyer, said in an interview. A J&J spokeswoman said the two mistrials with hung juries reflect the careful consideration by these juries of the real science in these cases. We look forward to a new trial to present our defense which rests on decades of independent, non-litigation driven scientific evaluations, none of which have found that Johnsons Baby Powder contains asbestos, Kim Montagnino said in a statement. In the last case to end conclusively, a jury in Missouri awarded $4.69 billion in July to more than 20 women with ovarian cancer who alleged asbestos in the companys baby powder and Shower to Shower products caused their illnesses. Three Decades There are more than 10,000 claims in U.S. courts alleging J&Js talc products cause cancer. Most are brought by women alleging they developed ovarian cancer from J&J baby powder and Shower to Shower talc products. Von Salzen, 74, said he used J&Js baby powder daily for about 30 years and was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2017. Von Salzen said he also used other talcs, but J&J was the only defendant left at trial. J&J knew for decades that its talc was contaminated with asbestos fibers and hid this from consumers, Purdy told jurors last week at the end of the trial. J&J never shared with the Food and Drug Administration positive findings of asbestos in the talc it was using, he said. Theres no dispute that asbestos, if its in the product, causes disease, Purdy said. When someone like Mr. Von Salzen uses it over his lifetime for 30 years on a daily basis, that contributes to his risk of developing cancer, asbestos-related cancer. Thoroughly Tested Von Salzen had been an active man before developing mesothelioma, Purdy said. Now he has constant shortness of breath and can barely walk across the room, the lawyer said. Von Salzen has less than a year to live, he added. The company denied that its products have ever contained asbestos or that its responsible for Von Salzens illness. J&Js baby powder has been repeatedly and thoroughly tested, Bruce Hurley, J&Js attorney, told jurors at the end of trial. It was not and is not contaminated with asbestos, he said. No published study in any scientific journal has ever concluded, ever, in the world, that Johnsons Baby Powder causes mesothelioma, Hurley said. Cosmetic talc doesnt cause mesothelioma. Lawyers for J&J and Von Salzen agreed he had sustained about $810,000 in economic damages connected to the cancer diagnosis. Von Salzen sought $12 million for past and future pain and suffering, plus unspecified damages for his wifes claim she will suffer from losing her husband to a premature death. J&Js talc supplier, a unit of Paris-based Imerys SA, was dropped from the case during trial, a company spokesman said. Imerys settled the earlier Los Angeles case that ended in a hung jury. It also settled the St. Louis case that generated the $4.69 billion verdict, paying at least $5 million to resolve the claims against it, according to people familiar with the matter. The case is Von Salzen v. American International Industries Inc., BC680576, California Superior Court, Los Angeles County. Copyright 2021 Bloomberg. AKRON, Ohio - The Akron Police Department has been awarded nearly $1 million to create a team to investigate sexual assault cold cases. The three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, will allow the city to create a multidisciplinary working group that will review, prioritize, investigate and prosecute sexual assault cold cases. "The Akron Police Department is thrilled to receive this grant," said Police Chief Kenneth Ball in a news release. "The process was very competitive. Our selection represents an organizational goal of providing the very best services for crime victims and our community. There are still challenges ahead, but this is a very positive step toward securing justice in these cases." The department doesn't have the staffing needed to effectively handle the city's backlog of cold cases, according to the release. The new team members will be specially trained in a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach, which recognizes how victims are affected by trauma and avoids re-traumatizing them through the investigation. The grant will pay for: three investigators and partial funding for an administrative assistant, a victim advocate, and a prosecutor; a case-management system designed for cold case, sexual-assault kit investigations that's compatible with databases in the Summit County Prosecutor's Office and the City of Akron Prosecutor's Office; technology and supplies to increase the efficiency of investigations. "This is an amazing accomplishment for our Akron Police Department," Mayor Dan Horrigan said in the release. "This will allow us to better meet the needs of victims of sexual assault and truly hold their abusers accountable." In 2012, the police department began assessing all sexual-assault kits collected since 1993 to submit for DNA testing under Ohio's 2011 Sexual Assault Kit Testing Initiative. Under the initiative, Akron sent 1,822 sexual-assault kits that were one year or older for DNA testing to the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Of those kits, 847 returned an eligible profile from a database of digital records of DNA results collected from crime scenes, felons and felony suspects. An additional 975 kits didn't correspond with an existing DNA profile, but evidence from a crime, such as clothing or linens, was available and could be tested. Want more Akron news? Sign up for cleveland.com's Rubber City Daily, an email newsletter delivered at 5:30 a.m. Monday through Friday BEACHWOOD, Ohio -- Burglary, Enterprise Parkway: At 10:10 a.m. Sept. 27, someone broke into two office suites at 3401 Enterprise Parkway and stole electronic equipment worth an estimated $4,690. Theft, Cedar Road: At 8:40 p.m. Sept. 26, police arrested a Bedford man, 41, for stealing merchandise valued at $98 from Dillard's at Beachwood Place mall, 26300 Cedar Road. OVI, Warrensville Center Road: At 1:40 a.m. Sept. 27, police stopped a car for speeding and for showing fictitious license plates. It was subsequently discovered that the driver, a Cleveland woman, 49, was intoxicated. She was charged with OVI and cited for speeding and for displaying improper license plates. Marijuana possession, Cedar Road: At 6:10 p.m. Sept. 27, police ticketed a woman for parking in a spot reserved for the disabled. The woman, 24, of Willowick, was found to be in possession of marijuana and to be driving with a suspended license. Trespassing, Cedar Road: At 6:35 p.m. Sept. 28, a Euclid woman, 20, was arrested at Beachwood Place for trespassing, driving with a suspended license and displaying fictitious plates. Drug trafficking, Cedar Road: At 7:35 p.m. Sept. 28, police arrested one man at Beachwood Place for drug trafficking and another for drug possession and obstructing official business. Additionally, a third man was cited for disorderly conduct and released. Arrested were a Maple Heights man, 19, and a Bedford Heights man, 20. Marijuana possession, Cedar Road: At 9:30 p.m. Sept. 28, police were called to Beachwood Place for a possible fight. Officers ended up citing a Cleveland man, 19, with marijuana possession. Marijuana possession, Richmond Road: At 4:45 p.m. Sept. 29, following a traffic stop, police cited a Maple Heights man, 30, with marijuana possession and drug paraphernalia possession. OVI, Park East Drive: At 1:20 a.m. Sept. 30, police stopped a car for speeding at Richmond Road and Chagrin Boulevard. It was subsequently discovered that the driver, a Mayfield Heights man, 51, was intoxicated. The man was charged with OVI and speeding. If you would like to discuss the police blotter, please visit our crime and courts comments page. BRECKSVILLE, Ohio -- The Brecksville-Broadview Heights schools are developing a "district action plan for mental health" designed to help pupils, parents, teachers and administrators face and deal with mental health issues. The district started working on the plan earlier in 2018 due to a high number of pupils reporting feelings of depression and anxiety, and because of pupil suicides, according to Gina Symsek, Brecksville-Broadview Heights' director of pupil services. Symsek said some high-school- and middle-school-age pupils are struggling with eating disorders and practicing self-injurious behaviors. Some fourth- and fifth-graders are trying to cope with various stressors, including drug-addicted parents and parent deaths. Meanwhile, tragedies such as the deadly mass shooting in February at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla. -- where a former Marjory Stoneman pupil opened fire, killing 17 people -- are adding to pupil stress. Symsek talked about the mental health plan last week before the Brecksville-Broadview Heights school board. "Let's face it, there are a lot of pressures in today's society," Symsek told the board. "We want to make sure that we're aware of that and providing (pupils) strategies." Symsek did not return several emails and phone calls regarding the number of suicides by pupils in the Brecksville-Broadview Heights district; over what length of time the suicides occurred; and the number or percentage of pupils suffering from mental- or emotional-health issues. 'Social-emotional learning' Symsek said that according to research, curriculum that includes "social and emotional learning (SEL)" improves academic outcomes for pupils, especially if it starts in preschool and runs through high school. SEL also makes pupils more resilient and equipped to deal with day-to-day life, less inclined toward bullying and less likely to abuse drugs, she said. The goals of SEL are to nurture self-awareness, self-management, social awareness and positive decision-making in pupils, Symsek said. SEL programs can include pupils meeting in small groups during the school day to discuss anxieties and life issues. Programs might also include deep breathing and meditation. Symsek said the Brecksville-Broadview Heights district may partner with an outside agency to provide an onsite social worker or psychologist, who would offer support to pupils, with parental permission. In addition to assisting individual pupils, SEL can spot district-wide social-emotional patterns, such as an elevated number of pupils suffering from anxiety. To evaluate children's social, emotional and mental-health needs, the district will use a "universal screener," a short test that identifies pupils at risk of poor learning outcomes, according to the Center on Response to Intervention. Symsek said the district has already implemented some universal screeners, including Signs of Suicide for sixth-graders and Youth Risk Behavior Assessment in seventh and eighth grades. The district plans to choose a new universal screener for pupils in grades 4-12. Reducing stress SEL programs already available in the district include Healthy Alternatives for Little Ones, which helps 3- to 6-year-olds gain self-awareness, get along with others and learn to be kind and respectful. It started in the 2017-2018 school year. At the other end of the spectrum, the internet-based All Choices Matter allows high-schoolers to obtain guidance on difficult life issues. The program finds experts to help individual pupils. Symsek said the district has just begun a pilot program for two sixth-grade classes, although she didn't name the program. Eventually, the district will expand the program to include all of Brecksville-Broadview Heights Middle School. The district is looking to add a program through PAX Ohio for K-5 pupils. It's a behavioral game that teaches self-regulation, self-management and self-control in young people, according to the PAX Ohio website. It's scheduled to begin next school year. Also, the district, partnering with outside agencies, will organize group sessions on topics such as anxiety at Central Elementary and Brecksville-Broadview Heights High schools and the middle school. Teachers and staffers are also receiving training and mental-health assistance. That's important, because if teachers and staff are stressed out, they're not as effective in their jobs. They can miss signs of stress in children and mistake them for behavioral problems, Symsek said. Symsek said the district contracts with PEP Assist, a consulting and training service that shows educators how to work with at-risk and special-needs children. The schools are looking to add programs that relieve stress for teachers and staff during the workday. Mental-health programs are also key for parents and the community at large, Symsek said. The district has already hosted presentations about suicide prevention and the signs of suicide. Such sessions will continue. The cost of mental-health programming But mental-health programs aren't free. District Treasurer Jeff Hall was unable to say in time for this story how much the district is now spending on these programs. He said the spending is spread out among various departments, so the total amount is difficult to nail down. Symsek said she has been seeking grants for mental-health initiatives. For the new middle school program, the district received a grant through Catholic Charities, and additional money came from the Brecksville-Broadview Heights Schools Foundation. The district is hoping for an Ohio Department of Education grant for the PAX program. Board President Kathleen Mack said that a commitment to pupils' mental health is a board priority. She said the district has been lucky to receive grants to kickstart programming. "If more of a financial commitment is needed, then this board will examine the effectiveness of the program and make the determination for funding at that time," Mack told cleveland.com in an email. CLEVELAND, Ohio - Emily Kinney knows what it's like to have brushes with death. She did, after all, spend four years of her life trying to survive a fictional zombie apocalypse. From 2011 to 2015, Kinney played Beth Greene on "The Walking Dead." Her character so beloved that when the show did kill her off, fans launched an online petition to have the character brought back to life. "Some of that was surprising," says Kinney. "But it was sort of satisfying to feel like something you worked on for four years made such an impact on people. That was quite nice for my ego, I guess." Kinney has spent her time since "The Walking Dead" trying to hook fans with her singing career. The tour in support of her second album, "Oh Jonathan," brings Kinney to Beachland Ballroom on Sunday, Oct. 7, coincidentally the same night Season 9 of "The Walking Dead" premieres on AMC. Despite earning fame for playing Beth Greene, as well as standout characters on shows like "Masters of Sex" and "The Knick," Kinney's music career has been pretty DIY through her own label Em-K Music. "It's basically like a small business," says the 33-year-old. "I definitely have people that help me out a lot. I have a manager, a publicist, a band and a booking agency. But I'm still on every email. Ultimately it's very grassroots in the way it's set up." Kinney's music career has been about as modest as her upbringing, which was scattered throughout small towns in Nebraska, Oregon and Nevada. After college in Nebraska, Kinney moved to New York to pursue her acting career. Performances in plays like "Spring Awakening" and "August: Osage County" helped her earn low-key roles in shows like "The Big C. and "Law & Order: Criminal Intent." But it was "The Walking Dead," the highest rated cable show in history, that would provide Kinney her big break. She was so believable in her role as Beth Greene, that many people have a hard time believing Kinney is in her 30s and not the teenager they saw dodging zombies. "I've always seemed younger than I am," Kinney admits. "Which is fine with me, because I feel like then I got to tap into something I already knew about. I can look back at my younger self and have tons of information to draw from." That's especially true for her music career as well. "Oh Jonathan" is an album about a relationship Kinney was in during her late 20s. In case you're wondering, the guy's name really is Jonathan. But Kinney insists her album isn't in the same vein as say Taylor Swift. "I wasn't necessarily trying to dive into this relationship," says Kinney. "Like, there's a line where I say I'm, 'Now I'll never light the world the same without. Windy whispers of his name..." That's the point of the album. I'll never be the same because I met this person and that shapes how I'm interpreting the world around me. They're coming up in stories even if they're not the focus of the stories." Kinney has yet another story to focus on. She'll star in the new Netflix series "Messiah," a suspense thriller focused on the reaction to a man in the Middle East whose many followers claim he is the Messiah. The show is scheduled to premiere some time in 2019. As for fans wondering whether or not Kinney keeps up with "The Walking Dead," she doesn't. But maybe not for the reasons you think. "I'm still proud of it. But I travel a lot and I just don't watch a lot of TV," Kinney reveals. "Although, when I am at home and I'm thinking, 'What do I want to watch TV?' I don't find myself wanting to watch 'The Walking Dead.' It's scary." [To hear our full interview with Kinney, check out the season premiere of "The Stalking Dead Podcast" on Monday, Oct. 8] Ausma Zehanat Khan A Dangerous Crossing Minotaur Books, 342 pp. $25.99 'A Dangerous Crossing' One of the most exciting newer names in the mystery field is that of British-Canadian-American novelist Ausma Zehanat Khan. Khan, who holds a Ph.D. in international human rights, is the rare writer who can blend both a serious social justice agenda with a top-notch plot that makes sure it never comes across as didactic. In her previous mysteries featuring Toronto detectives Rachel Getty and Esa Khattak, all published since 2015, Khan has taken on topics from the fallout of the wars in the former Yugoslavia to the war on terror to life in contemporary Iran. Her latest is the most topical yet. "A Dangerous Crossing," set mostly on the Greek isle of Lesvos, takes on the Syrian refugee crisis in a story that is relevant, heartbreaking and a page-turning mystery. When Canadian Audrey Claire, an employee of a NGO, goes missing on Lesvos while on a refugee crisis mission, the potential political fallout means Getty and Khattak are sent to investigate. The sheer scale of human misery they find on Lesvos shocks even these hardened police. But can they find out what happened to Audrey, too? Khan has crafted a provocative thriller. Grade: A Ellie Alexander The Pint of No Return Minotaur Books, 304 pp., $26.99 Think all cozy mysteries feature little old ladies, cats and/or quaint bookshops? Think again. Pacific Northwest author Ellie Alexander's cozy new series features young and soon-to-be-divorced brewmaster Sloan Krause. She lives in the picturesque small Washington town of Leavenworth, where she's balancing her messy personal life - it's very complicated - with managing her pub and making her seasonal Cherrywizen. So when a sexy movie star arrives in town to film during Leavenworth's Oktoberfest, it's a distraction Sloan doesn't need. Nor is a murder. The second book to feature the sleuthing brewmaster is a light, seasonal read. The perfect brew for a fall afternoon. Grade: B Judith Flanders A Howl of Wolves Minotaur, 304 pp., $26.99 London book editor Sam Clair is like a sleuthing Bridget Jones, one of the more delightful mystery series leads to emerge in recent years. She's a witty, self-effacing, smarter than she lets on Londoner. The latest in Flanders' charming series finds Sam and her hot Scotland Yard detective boyfriend heading out to attend a gory West End play that happens to star a neighbor. When one of the bodies on stage turns out to be not a dummy, but rather the loathed director, Sam's amateur sleuthing skills kick in (to boyfriend Jake's chagrin, at times). What follows is an entertaining puzzle, but as with Flanders previous books, it's Sam's often laugh-out-loud wry internal, and sometimes external, dialogue that's the real appeal of the series. Grade: B Camilla Way The Lies We Told Berkley, 336 pp., $16 What do you do when your child scares you? English mother Beth doesn't know ... and that scares her even more.. The follow-up to author Camilla Way's 2016 "Watching Edie" doesn't disappoint. Like her first book, it's a twisty psychological thriller. Told in two intertwined narratives - Cambridgeshire in the '80s and London in 2017 - the twisty and twisted plot links together the story of Beth and daughter Hannah in the past, and the disappearance of a young man named Luke in the present. A man whose sister once knew Hannah. Think you have the plot figured out? Think again. There are no easy answers in Way's dark, compelling story. Grade: A ATHENS, Ohio - Ohio-made experimental music isn't the type of stuff you'll often hear on the radio or music podcasts. But now, it's in the spotlight in Brian Koscho's new podcast "Athena Headache." The show is hosted on Ohio music promotion website Aquabear Legion, which Koscho formed 14 years ago. "Athena Headache" features everything from noise, to freeform jazz, to ambient music. Songs can be two minutes long, or 30 minutes long. Live, or studio recorded. "It's niche stuff," said Koscho. "This is something someone could listen to at the gym or put on while they're cooking dinner. It's really well-suited to be background music. But I also think someone could sit with a pair of headphones and really focus on it if they wanted." Episode One of "Athena Headache" was posted on Sept. 1 and it features songs by Athens, Ohio bands and musicians Dead Winds of Summer, Casiotone Orchestra, Leslie Keffer and more. The podcast clocks in at an hour and 17 minutes long, and features only seven unique songs. Koscho has lived in Athens since he went to school there in 2001. He formed Aquabear Legion to promote music coming from all corners of the state of Ohio. Through Aquabear Legion, Koscho has produced multiple compilation records, hosted local-focused concerts and produced two other podcasts: the long-running Cleveland Browns-focused "Six Bs and a P," and another Ohio music podcast titled "The Western Reserve." He performs in a local rock band called Unmonumental, which is working on putting out its second album. Koscho said all of that work is just for fun. His main job is being the Marketing Director of Nelsonville Music Festival and Stuart's Opera House. He was inspired to kick off "Athena Headache" by listening to NPR music programs focusing on classical and experimental music. He wanted to fulfill that niche, but with Ohio and Midwest music. "You sort of know if someone is hitting play or subscribing, they are intrigued and curious enough to listen," said Koscho. "You don't need to worry about long songs or weird music ... because of the format, you eliminate the need to worry about that stuff." He said the podcast has given him a chance to give attention to a music scene that he's enjoyed for over a decade. "It's giving us an excuse to dig through a giant box of CDs and old recordings -- old, one mic recordings of performances," he said. " It's also really cool because we're starting to engage that community of musicians a little more." Though Koscho hosted and curated "Athena Headache's" first episode, he plans to have a rotating host for each subsequent episode. The next episode will be released in October on Aquabear Legion's website. Listen to Episode One of "Athena Headache" here. For more Ohio music coverage, sign up for our weekly local music newsletter, "Listen Up Cleveland." CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Cleveland City Council member Kerry McCormack said in a video posted to Facebook that off-duty Cleveland police officers will patrol near-West Side neighborhoods in response to recent violence, including a Monday shooting that left three people hurt in Ohio City. McCormack, whose Ward 3 includes Ohio City, Tremont, the Stockyards and downtown Cleveland, outlined his plans in a video posted Tuesday morning on the Facebook page for the Ohio City Crime Watch. He also said he will establish an anti-violence task force and advocate for initiatives that could keep the area safe, such as security cameras and increased staffing levels for the Cleveland police department. "This is my neighborhood, this is your neighborhood, and this is our neighborhood," McCormack said. "As a homeowner in Ohio City, I take these issues very seriously. I love our community." The full video can be viewed at the top of this post. In the Facebook video, McCormack offers details of the shooting and says he spoke to Mayor Frank Jackson, Cleveland police Chief Calvin Williams, Public Safety Director Michael McGrath, and Second District Cmdr. Thomas Stacho about his concerns over recent violence in the area. He said his office will partner with the Downtown Cleveland Alliance to have off-duty police officers patrol the near-West Side area of Ward 3. Those supplementary patrols will be Downtown Cleveland Alliance-branded vehicles, he said. McCormack also said he wants to establish a Ward 3 safety task force, which will include residents, community development corporations, and representatives from Cleveland's Public Safety Department. The task force will work together on coordinated responses to any safety issues that arise, he said. McCormack also promised to support any technology that could help reduce crime, such as the high-tech street lights equipped with security cameras that the city of Cleveland has proposed buying. He also said he will advocate for the hiring of more police officers to patrol the city's streets. "It is my full commitment to ensure that issues like this, and other quality of life issues, are dealt with swiftly so that we can continue to build toward an even better community," McCormack said in the video. An argument over a cellphone led to the shooting that happened about 9:30 p.m. Monday on West 25th Street near Lorain Avenue, police said. Two men and a woman were hurt. The suspected shooter, a 66-year-old man, was shot in the face during a fight over the gun, police said. He was arrested on suspicion of felonious assault, carrying a concealed weapon, obstructing justice and possessing a weapon under disability. A 36-year-old woman was shot in the head as she tried to break up the fight, and she needed surgery to remove the bullet from her forehead, police said. A 34-year-old man was also shot in the chest and arm, police said. To comment on this story, visit Wednesday's crime and courts comments page. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A Cuyahoga County Jail inmate died while incarcerated in the jail marking the sixth inmate death in the county jails since late June. Cuyahoga County spokeswoman Mary Louise Madigan confirmed the inmate died and that he was taken to MetroHealth, but said she had no other details surrounding the death. Five others have died after being housed in the jail since the June 22 death of 51-year-old Larry Johnson, who hanged himself in his cell. The five deaths are by far the most deaths in one year in Cuyahoga County jails in at least a decade. There hasn't been more than two inmate deaths in one years in the last decade at the downtown jail. The deaths have all happened after Cuyahoga County took over booking and housing jail inmates arrested by Cleveland police. Prior to that, Cleveland ran its own jail. The city police department struck a deal with the county in order to avoid paying Cuyahoga County rent for the city's portion of the Justice Center. Several healthcare officials at the jail raised concern that the facility does not provided enough medical personnel to treat inmates. Of the five deaths other deaths this year, two hanged themselves, two had drugs in their system and a fifth remains under investigation. Johnson was jailed after he was accused him of breaking into Corlett Movers and Storage on East 55th Street Nov. 3, 2015. Estben Parra, 32, died June 27 of a drug overdose after he swallowed a balloon full of methamphetamine before his arrest on drug charges and a misdemeanor warrant. Joseph Arquillo, 47, died Aug. 28. His cause of death has not been officially determined, but toxicology screenings showed he had opioids, cocaine and benzodiazepines, commonly found in drugs such as Valium or Zanax in his system. Arquillo, a military veteran, also suffered from a laceration on his liver, medical examiner records say He was jailed on a probation violation stemming from two 2017 convictions for unauthorized use of a car and writing a bad check. Gregory Fox, 36, was found hanged in his jail cell on Aug. 28. He died two days later at MetroHealth. Medical examiner notes viewed by cleveland.com said Fox suffered from bipolar disorder and anxiety and tried to take his own life in January by overdosing on prescription pills. Fox was jailed on $125,000 bond in two cases -- one where he was accused of repeatedly raping a 13-year-old girl during an 18-month span in North Royalton and for repeatedly calling and harassing the girl in an attempt to get her to drop charges against him. Randy Kain, 46, of Lakewood, died after being booked into the Euclid jail, which has been run by Cuyahoga County since 2014. Kain had several warrants for his arrest from police departments across the county, all of which were misdemeanor crimes, including charges of drug possession and theft. The medical examiner has not determined why Kain died. To comment on this story, visit Tuesday's crime and courts comment section. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A man accused of stealing a car at knifepoint moments after a court appearance is back in custody after being arrested Tuesday, authorities say. The U.S. Marshals Service says Cuyahoga County sheriff's deputies and members of the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force spotted Sean Vanderlin, 32, near the intersection of Pearl Road and Denison Avenue in the Brooklyn Centre neighborhood after receiving a tip. Vanderlin ran as authorities moved in to arrest him, but he was caught on the 2400 block of Denison. Vanderlin was wanted by the U.S. Marshals and Fairview Park police for aggravated robbery. Marshals say he was first arrested on Sept. 26 on a charge of possession of a stolen vehicle. He was held in the Fairview Park City Jail until Sept. 27, when he posted bond during a court appearance. Authorities say moments after he was released, Vanderlin approached a 46-year-old woman who was sitting in her vehicle not far from the courthouse, ordered her out at knife point, and stole her vehicle. To comment on this story, visit Tuesday's crime and courts comment section. CLEVELAND, Ohio - All but one student in Renee Sentilles' freshman women's history seminar believes Brett Kavanaugh will be confirmed as a Supreme Court justice. The 13 women and two men in this Case Western Reserve University class Tuesday are feminists. And they're feeling frustrated this week, waiting for an FBI investigation into professor Christine Blasey Ford's allegation that Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her at a high school party. "I'm angry. I'm furious," Grace Bentley said softly. She said the frustration now reminds her of the wave of youth anger after the nation's deadliest mass shooting in Parkland, Florida, last year. Since then, little has changed for gun rights. "At this point I always expect the worst," said Sarah Zhou, in a circle of wooden desks in Clark Hall. "Because after the 2016 election, I was so disappointed." Across the country, whatever the political persuasion, Americans have been engrossed by the drama of the Kavanaugh hearings. Even college students who normally ignore the news were tuned in, students said. Sentilles' students watched Ford's testimony during their 75-minute class Thursday. They were riveted by details, Ford's memory of her one-piece bathing suit and of men's laughter. "We're studying women's history," said Sentilles, who recently published the book "American Tomboys." "This is women's history. This is a watershed moment." Some students, including 17-year-old Maria Domenech, watched the entire day of testimony, then kept going, reading news stories and scrolling social media for reaction. Sentilles has been so obsessed, she said, she's trying to stay away from her computer. The students worry that if Kavanaugh is confirmed, the move would deflate the strength of the #MeToo movement, an avalanche of sexual harassment accusations about professional power players that began last October. "If Kavanaugh goes through, you can see the vindication that the #MeToo movement doesn't mean as much," said Andrew Shinn. "It will be a little discouraging," said Caitlyn Feely. "Dr. Ford shows all this courage, and it still wasn't enough to stop sending a sexual predator into office." But the class also has hope - that politicians and the country are taking Ford's allegations seriously, that more women are reporting sexual assaults and that the women's movement has momentum. Students hope that reports will be taken more seriously and fewer victims will be shamed. "November 2016 was like being thrown off a cliff," Sentilles said. "This has a sense of hope because people are fighting back." For more coverage of women's issues, follow Shatter on Facebook. ELYRIA, Ohio -- A 20-year-old man died Monday evening after a shooting at an Elyria apartment complex. The shooting happened about 6:05 p.m. at the Southwyck Apartments in the 1400 block of West River Road North. Officers went to the complex to investigate a shots-fired report. The officers arrived and discovered Zachary Mason lying on the ground with several gunshot wounds in his torso, Capt. Chris Costantino said. Paramedics took Mason, 20, to University Hospitals' Elyria campus where he later died. As Elyria police detectives arrived at the scene and interviewed witnesses, they determined that Mason was shot in an apartment building on the second floor landing, which is a shared common area. Mason was able to leave the building after he was shot and made it to the parking lot area before collapsing. The investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made, police said. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Elyria police at 440-323-3302. To comment on this story, visit Tuesday's crime and courts comment section. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A 20-year-old man was shot in the hip while riding in a car on the Interstate 490. The shooting happened about 12:45 a.m. Wednesday between the East 55th Street on-ramp and Steelyard Commons exit, according to police reports. The man was treated at MetroHealth. No arrests have been made in the case. The man and his brother were at the Hanini Gas Station on Woodland Avenue near East 55th Street. The man told police he bought a sandwich and Gatorade. Another witness told police the man and his brother were involved in an altercation at the gas station, police reports say. The two men got into their car, drove south on Woodland and got on-ramp and drove for three or four minutes when someone fired several shots from another car. Several bullets ripped through the man's SUV, according to police. The man said he dropped his sandwich and was reaching to get it when he was shot in the hip, police reports said. Neither he nor his brother saw who fired the shots, police reports say. The man's brother drove to Steelyard Commons, where he stopped and called 911. Officers found the man in the passenger seat bleeding from the hip. Officers also noted a strong smell of burnt marijuana in the car. The man's brother was arrested in connection with an outstanding warrant from Beachwood police. Police are investigating possibility the men's red Nissan SUV was connected to several shots being fired earlier in the night in the 2500 block of Loop Drive in the city's Tremont neighborhood. To comment on this story, visit Wednesday's crime and courts comment section. CLEVELAND, Ohio - Nancy Matia thought she saw the last of the vicious, disease-spreading tiger mosquitoes when she moved from Texas to Tremont. But it looks like the little buggers followed her. "In 1998 in Dallas we were infested with these mosquitoes," she said. "We actually thought about selling the house to get away from them." For other reasons, Matia moved to Cleveland about three years ago and was surprised when her old adversaries showed up. "I was at a party a few weeks ago and came home covered with bites," she said. "It felt like the bites of the tiger mosquito, then I actually found one dead on the counter top. This is a game changer for outdoor parties." The bad news is that indeed, the tiger mosquitoes (Aedes albopictus) have made their way to Northeast Ohio from the South. The good news is that they are not the health threat here that they are in other places, according to officials of the Cuyahoga County Health Department. The National Pest Management Association, of Fairfax, Va., describes the pest as a daytime-biting insect that gets its name from the single white stripe that runs down its head and back. It is native to Southeast Asia, where the mosquito can transmit harmful diseases like the Zika and West Nile viruses; Chikingunya and dengue fever. But things are different here. Joe Lynch, program manager of the Cuyahoga County Board of Health, said the local tiger mosquitoes that arrived here within the past few years, are unlikely to transmit such diseases here. "The difference is these diseases start with a human host," he said. "Since there are few, if any, people in Northeast Ohio carrying Zika or dengue fever, we don't worry much about that. People here can get West Nile Virus, but if they do they are what we call a 'dead end host' and will not transmit the virus to others through a mosquito bite." That being said, the tiger mosquito and his friends can really ruin an outdoor party. Lynch said they are very persistent biters and they love to attack humans. They will keep trying until they hit skin, then it gets nasty because they call their friends. "If you see one, you'll soon see dozens," Lynch said. "They travel in large groups and once one finds a victim, they will swarm you." As with all mosquitoes, the best defense is a good offense. "These are backyard mosquitoes so if you see them, they have a breeding ground close by," said Michael Bentley, director of training and education for the National Pest Management Association. "Look for water containers where they breed and dump them. Problem is, they can breed in a water-filled bottle cap, divots in a grill cover or in certain plants that hold water, so people have to be vigilant and seek out all sources." Lynch said the more common sources would wading pools, birdbaths and buckets left out in the rain. Ohio's rainfall and warm temperatures have provided a perfect breeding ground for all mosquitoes, including the tiger. The other good news: topical insect repellents are effective against all mosquitoes. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Two men are charged in connection with a shooting in the city's popular Ohio City neighborhood that injured three people, including the suspected shooter. Talib Saahir, 66, is charged with felonious assault and Deontray Pace, 34, is charged with obstructing justice. The charges were filed on Wednesday. Saahir remains hospitalized and Pace is in the Cuyahoga County Jail awaiting his first court appearance. The shooting happened about 9:30 pm. Monday at the Market Square Park on West 25th Street and Lorain Avenue across the street from the West Side Market, and near a stretch of bars and restaurants that are among the city's most popular nightlife destinations. A 36-year-old woman suffered a gunshot would to the head as she tried to break up the fight, police said. The bullet lodged in her forehead and she needed surgery to remove the bullet. She was able to give a statement to police. She is a mother of two young children, friends said at the scene Monday night. A 34-year-old man was shot in the chest and arm, police said. The fight started when that man, who was upset over his girlfriend breaking up with him and because he lost his cellphone, asked to use someone's cellphone. They argued and Saahir pulled out a knife and threatened him, police said. A fight ensued and the 34-year-old man punched Pace, who was with Saahir, in the mouth, police reports say. Saahir left, went to his car and grabbed a handgun, police said. He returned and pointed the gun at the 34-year-old man who threw the punch, according to police. Several people, including the 34-year-old man and the 36-year-old woman, tried to wrestle the gun away and break up the fight. Saahir fired shots that hit the woman in the head, police said. The 34-year-old man wrestled Saahir to the ground and the two fought over the gun. Saahir more shots as he lay on the ground, hitting the 34-year-old man and shooting himself in the head, according to police. Another man at the scene ran up and kicked Saahir in the head after the shooting, police reports say. Officers found the gun next to Saahir and noted that he smelled of alcohol and had a knife in his waistband, police reports say. Pace, who was bleeding from his mouth, refused to tell officers what happened at the scene and was arrested, according to court records. To comment on this story, visit Wednesday's crime and courts comments page. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- University of Chicago President Robert Zimmer, who led a charge for free speech policy on college campuses, will speak Wednesday at the City Club of Cleveland. The University of Chicago is known for the "Chicago Statement," issued in 2015. The policy boils down to the stance that the university's duty is to protect free speech, even offensive free speech, and facilitate debate. Other universities adopted the policies -- 35 at last count. The school's stance became particularly controversial after a faculty member invited Steve Bannon to speak on campus. There were protests on campus against inviting the former editor of chief of Breitbart and White House chief strategist to President Donald Trump, who many view as being tied to white nationalism. The university stood by the faculty member who wanted to bring Bannon to campus. "It is for the individual members of the University community, not for the University as an institution, to make those judgments for themselves, and to act on those judgments not by seeking to suppress speech, but by openly and vigorously contesting the ideas that they oppose," reads the Chicago Statement. Read the full report here. Zimmer will discuss his ideas about free speech on campuses at 12:30 p.m. Watch live in the video player above. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- As we've previously written, we are working with Google to inform our coverage of the November election in Ohio. One part of that project is tracking the most frequently asked questions Ohioans are searching for each week. Those questions are often similar. But we are looking out for changes, including new questions or new top-searched issues, especially as the election grows nearer and voters start paying closer attention. Here are some observations on the top questions from the past week, ending Oct. 1. The midterms As a political reporter, I feel qualified to tackle the top-searched questions about the midterms. The long-reigning top question is "When are the midterm elections?" (They are on Nov. 6 in Ohio and across the country.) But the others are starting to grow more specific. They are: - "What are the midterm elections?" (They are the federal elections that occur two years after each presidential election.) - "Who is running in the midterm elections?" (Nationwide, all 435 members of the House of Representatives and 35 of the 100 U.S. senators are up for re-election. In Ohio, all 16 congressional representatives are running for re-election, as is Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown. All of Ohio's statewide executive offices also are up for grabs, including governor and state attorney general. Plus, two Ohio Supreme Court seats are in play.) The fifth top question is, "How will Republicans do in the midterms?" This is a new addition to the top-questions list, although it displaced a similar question: "What happens if the Democrats win the midterm elections." No one can predict the future. But to try to answer the question, we turn to FiveThirtyEight.com, the polling website. Using a mix of polling data and expert opinions, it projects Republicans have a 74 percent chance of losing control of the U.S. House of Representatives. This would require that the Democrats flip a net 23 seats currently held by Republicans. Let's drill down a little more. The Cook Political Report, a nonpartisan political news site we like, is tracking 106 competitive House races. Of those, they rate 13 House seats currently held by Republicans as "likely" Democratic wins or better. Another 31 competitive races, 29 of which are held by Republicans, are viewed as "toss-ups." One Democratic seat, Pennsylvania's 14th Congressional District, is likely to flip Republican because of redistricting there. So, if they keep all their own seats, Democrats would have to win 11 of the 29 "toss-up" Republican seats to take control of the House. Only one toss-up seat is in Ohio. That's GOP Rep. Steve Chabot, from the Cincinnati area, who has a tough Democratic challenger in Hamilton County Clerk of Courts Aftab Pureval. The uncharacteristic closeness of that race has led to big spending on ads and political canvassing from both campaigns there, as well as from outside Republican and Democratic groups. But Chabot led Pureval by 9 points in a recent poll. As for the Senate, FiveThirtyEight projects Republicans have a 73 percent chance of keeping the Senate. Democrats would have to flip just two Republican-held Senate seats to gain control. But because many of the seats up for grabs this year are represented by Democratic senators in states Donald Trump won in 2016, like Missouri, North Dakota and Montana, it's viewed as a tough road for them. One "Trump state" Democrat is Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown. But Brown's chances of being re-elected widely are viewed as safe, in large part because polling consistently has shown him with a double-digit lead over his Republican challenger, Rep. Jim Renacci. So in short, while it seems likely right that Democrats will win the House while Republicans keep the Senate, it's a realistic possibility that Republicans could keep control, or that Democrats win control of the entire Congress. Ohio's state-level races get less national attention. But the governor's race between Republican Mike DeWine and Democrat Rich Cordray has polled very closely, while the down-ticket races likewise have all been toss-ups, too. Top political issues Once again, health care was the top-searched political issue in Ohio last week. This has been reflected by traditional polling as well, although "jobs and the economy" often ranks highly in polls. For some reason, Google's system doesn't capture this. When health care has been knocked off the top spot, it's because of an event in the news. For example, during the week of Sept. 11, 2018, the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks were temporarily the most frequently searched topic. Wondering what people are asking about when they search about health care? Here are the top questions: 1. How do refugees receive health care? 2. Where does the US rank in health care? 3. How does Canada have free health care? 4. What is a health care practitioner? 5. Who is responsible for health care? Three of the other top-searched issues were also health-care related -- Medicare, Medicaid and mental health. These questions, as usual, were practical searches like "How do I sign up for Medicare/Medicaid?" or "What is mental health?" Immigration sometimes appears in the top five but, not for the past two weeks. The fifth was the United Nations, displacing the Sept. 11 attacks as the fifth-most searched issue. This likely was due to Trump's Sept. 25 appearance at the UN headquarters in New York. Top questions Ohioans searched for on this topic included "Where is the United Nations," "Why did the UN laugh at Trump" and "What did Trump say at United Nations?" COLUMBUS, Ohio--The 2018 Ohio's governor race has already attracted the most money in state history - and there's still almost five weeks to go before Election Day. The two major-party candidates for governor, Democrat Rich Cordray and Republican Mike DeWine, have together raised a whopping $38.1 million as of Wednesday. Until this year, the most expensive Ohio gubernatorial race was in 2010, when Republican John Kasich and Democrat Ted Strickland spent a combined $30.4 million, according to the Columbus Dispatch. DeWine has raised a total of $24.3 million, while Cordray has accepted $13.8 million in donations, according to their respective campaigns. Recent polls show the two in a neck-and-neck race to succeed Kasich, who is term-limited. Travis Irvine, the Libertarian nominee for governor, raised $9,649 in September. Green Party nominee Constance Gadell-Newton didn't file a report as of late Wednesday afternoon. Meanwhile, Democratic candidates for Ohio's other four statewide executive offices raised more money in the last reporting period than their Republican opponents, according to campaign-finance reports filed Wednesday with the Ohio secretary of state's office. However, the Republican nominees for Ohio Supreme Court collected more donations than their Democratic opponents. All statewide candidates for the Nov. 6 election were required to disclose their September fundraising numbers on Wednesday, though they do not yet have to reveal how much their campaigns have spent. Attorney General: Democrat Steve Dettelbach, a former U.S. attorney, raised approximately $753,000 between Sept. 7 and Oct. 3. Republican State Auditor Dave Yost accepted $404,000 in donations between Sept. 7 and Oct. 1. Secretary of State: Democratic state Rep. Kathleen Clyde reported raising nearly $322,000 between Sept. 6 and Oct. 3. Republican state Sen. Frank LaRose's September report lists just over $255,000 in donations, though it includes several donations made in June, July, and August. Treasurer: Democrat Rob Richardson, an attorney and former Cincinnati mayoral candidate, raised almost $204,000 between Sept. 7 and Oct. 3. Republican Robert Sprague, a state representative from Findlay, collected almost $162,000 between Sept. 6 and Oct. 3. State Auditor Republican Keith Faber a state representative and former Ohio Senate president, raised more than $204,000 between Sept. 6 and Oct. 3. Democrat Zack Space, an ex-congressman from Dover, accepted nearly $254,000 in donations between Sept. 7 and Oct. 3. That's the most ever raised by an Ohio state auditor candidate in the September reporting period, according to a Space campaign release. Ohio Supreme Court Republican Justice Mary DeGenaro, who's running for a full six-year term after being appointed to the court earlier this year, raised $87,820 between Sept. 5 and Oct. 2. DeGenaro's Democratic opponent, Ohio Appeals Court Judge Melody Stewart of Cleveland, collected about $55,000 in contributions between Sept. 1 and Oct. 3. In the race to take over retiring Justice Terrence O'Donnell's seat, Republican Craig Baldwin, a state appellate court judge from Newark, accepted slightly more than $72,000 in donations in September. Democrat Michael P. Donnelly, a Cuyahoga County Common Pleas judge, raised $52,800 between Aug. 30 and Oct. 2. COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohioans have until Tuesday to register to vote to participate in the Nov. 6 midterm election. People can register online or by mail either by printing a form at home or picking up a form in a government office, according to the Ohio Secretary of State's office, which oversees elections. Ohio voters can update their addresses through either option as well. Online: Visit At home: People who prefer paper or who do not have all the required information to register online can print out a form At a government office: Numerous government buildings have available voter registration forms, including public libraries, public high schools or vocational schools, the Ohio Secretary of State's office, People must register or update their voter registrations no later than 30 days before the election -- Oct. 9 for the Nov. 6 election. If you register or update your information after the deadline, the change will apply to the next election. Ohio voters can get targeted to be purged from the rolls if they don't participate in elections for two years. Unsure whether you are still registered? Visit the state's voter registration search tool. COLUMBUS, Ohio - A 2015 Cleveland State University police search of a vehicle that led to the discovery of sealed envelopes containing 150 individually wrapped marijuana-infused candies is legal, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled Wednesday. The Supreme Court reversed lower court decisions from the trial court and the Ohio Eighth District Court of Appeals that the evidence should be suppressed because the search was illegal. Justice Terrence O'Donnell wrote the majority opinion. Justices Sharon L. Kennedy, Judith French, Patrick Fischer and R. Patrick DeWine joined the opinion. First District Court of Appeals Judge Marilyn Zayas, sitting for Justice Mary DeGenaro, also joined the opinion. Chief Justice Maureen O'Connor concurred in judgment only, meaning she voted with the majority but she didn't sign on to the written opinion. Background CSU Officer Jeffrey Madej stopped a vehicle after noticing Edwin Vega turn left on a red light at East 18th Street and Euclid Avenues. Madej noticed a strong smell of marijuana and asked Vega to leave the vehicle because he intended to search it, according to the ruling. Madej found three cell phones, several raw marijuana buds, a small amount of "shake" marijuana, rolling papers, aerosol cans to change the scent in the air and an open package of fruit-flavored SweetStone candy - which is manufactured in Denver and contains cannabis, the ruling states. Madej also found a partially opened U.S. Postal Service box with two Priority Mail envelopes. Vega told him that they contained stickers. Madej didn't believe him. Vega wouldn't consent to Madej opening the envelopes, the ruling states. Madej called his superior and other officers to determine whether he had probable cause to open the envelopes and get a drug-sniffing dog. He couldn't get the dog. Madej wrote Vega tickets for the illegal turn and marijuana possession, the ruling states. "After explaining the tickets to Vega, Madej decided to open the sealed envelopes based on the odor of marijuana coming from the car and the discovery of three cell phones, the aerosol canisters, the large quantity of rolling papers, the marijuana buds, and the shake weed," the ruling said. Inside one envelope were three large zip-close bags with 75 packages that said they contained marijuana-infused candy - the same SweetStone candy Vega had in his center console. Madej arrested Vega for drug trafficking. Later testing found the candy in both envelopes contained marijuana. The stop lasted over an hour. Vega's attorneys tried to suppress the candy as evidence, arguing Madej lacked probable cause to open them. He also argued the duration of the stop violated his constitutional rights. In 2016, the trial court agreed with Vega, saying a marijuana smell from the car was not probable cause to open the envelopes since Vega's attorneys argued the envelopes didn't emit a cannabis scent. The Eighth District Court of Appeals determined Madej had probable cause to search the vehicle but not to open the envelopes. Madej should have released Vega after the misdemeanor tickets, the appellate court ruled. Supreme Court The high court considered the Fourth Amendment's prohibition against unreasonable seizures. But the court believed the search and seizure was reasonable based on the contraband found in other parts of the car. The duration of the traffic stop was justified based on that probable cause, the court wrote. "After finding marijuana and other drug paraphernalia in Vega's car, Madej had probable cause to open the envelopes because it was reasonable to believe that they could contain marijuana," O'Donnell wrote in the ruling. Marijuana possession and trafficking are crimes in Ohio. The state's medical marijuana program will allow possession and use if a patient has one of 21 qualifying conditions. Edibles are permitted under the state's program. No marijuana is available yet and probably won't be until the beginning of next year. COLUMBUS, Ohio--President Donald Trump is coming to Ohio on Oct. 12 as part of a six-state tour to campaign for Republican House candidates, according to Reuters. It's not immediately clear where in the Buckeye State the president will be headed. However, a Republican official told cleveland.com that Trump will not be going to House District 12 in Central Ohio, where he campaigned for now-U.S. Rep. Troy Balderson ahead of the Aug. 7 special election there. Besides Balderson, the Ohio House Republican seen as the most vulnerable this year is U.S. Rep. Steve Chabot of Cincinnati in District 1. A Chabot spokesman said Wednesday that he would look into whether the president was coming to help the 11-term congressman, who's facing a strong challenge from Democrat Aftab Pureval, the Hamilton County clerk of courts. Trump intends to begin his campaign tour Thursday in Minnesota to help two GOP House candidates there, according to an internal memo acquired by Reuters. The president then is scheduled to visit Kansas on Saturday, Iowa on Oct. 9, Pennsylvania on Oct. 10, Ohio on Oct. 12, and Kentucky on Oct. 13, the report says. Political forecasts say that Democrats are likely to win the 23 GOP-held seats needed to take control of the U.S. House. If they do, House Democrats would likely launch investigations into Trump and the White House. Deborah M. Turner With Ohio's judicial age limits forcing Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court Judge Janet R. Burnside to step down in January, the open seat has attracted unusually heavy interest. On the Nov. 6 ballot, the contenders are now down to two: Bedford Heights Assistant Law Director and Assistant Prosecutor Deborah M. Turner, who won the six-way Democratic primary in May; and Republican Lori Anne Dyke, a judicial staff attorney at Common Pleas Court for more than 13 years. Both have practiced law for about two decades. Dyke, 49, of Westlake, judicial staff attorney for Common Pleas Judge Nancy McDonnell, cites her breadth of experience: She currently focuses on civil cases, but gained criminal law experience from two years in the county prosecutor's office early in her career, followed by four and a half years with the county public defender's office. Turner, 65, of Solon, who also has worked as a magistrate and bailiff in Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court, and who spent 20 years as a teacher before taking up the law, cites her life experience in the school of hard knocks as helping her understand many of the challenges defendants face. Dyke did not participate in four local bar associations' Judge4Yourself ratings process, saying she worried about a "taint of bias" against Turner. Turner did participate in the primary, earning two "goods" and two "adequates" from the four local bars. Turner appears to have the steady temperament and commitment to fairness that will enable her to serve well on the county bench. Voters should elect Deborah M. Turner to the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court bench in the Jan. 11 term. Early in-person and absentee voting for the Nov. 6 election begins Oct. 10. For more resources on Cuyahoga County judicial races, besides the Judge4Yourself ratings by four local bar associations, consult Judicial Votes Count at the University of Akron and the League of Women Voters' voters' guide. An open seat being vacated by age-limited Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Judge Janet R. Burnside inspired a six-way Democratic primary race, which was won by Deborah M. Turner, the assistant law director and assistant prosecutor in Bedford Heights. In the general election, Turner faces Republican Lori Anne Dyke, a judicial staff attorney in Common Pleas Court who ran unsuccessfully for the appellate court in 2010 and 2012. The candidates were interviewed by the editorial board of cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer on Aug. 29, 2018. Listen to full audio of this interview below: About our editorials: Editorials express the view of the editorial board of cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer -- the senior leadership and editorial-writing staff. As is traditional, editorials are unsigned and intended to be seen as the voice of the news organization. Have something to say about this topic? * Send a letter to the editor, which will be considered for print publication. * Email general questions about our editorial board or comments on this editorial to Elizabeth Sullivan, director of opinion, at esullivan@cleveland.com. * Use the comments to share your thoughts. Then, stay informed when readers reply to your comments by using the "Follow" option at the top of the comments, & look for updates via the small blue bell in the lower right as you look at more stories on cleveland.com. PARMA, Ohio -- City Council unanimously approved on Monday night a new water service agreement with the City of Cleveland. In exchange for agreeing to Cleveland's Suburban Water Main Renewal Program, which is tied to an anti-poaching policy, Parma will not be on the hook for major waterline improvement projects in the city. Service Director Brian Higgins said the city in the past had to cover any replacement projects. "A lot of people call the waterlines an asset, but the fact is it costs a lot of money to replace and, at the end of the day, it's a bigger liability for communities than an asset," Higgins said. "So what you have here is aging infrastructure along with your aging waterlines. "We have 242 miles of pipe and 51 percent of it was installed before 1930. Also, last year, I had 270 water breaks throughout the city. So the agreement is that they'll take over your asset and start a scoring system with a committee to start replacing some of these old pipes that cost a lot of money." While the Suburban Water Main Renewal Program agreement has been around for more than a decade, Mayor Tim DeGeeter said Parma took its time signing the deal due to the anti-poaching language. The contract states that if a business with a certain dollar amount leaves one community for another, 50 percent of that income tax will be shared for a five-year period. "We looked at this agreement in 2012, but because of Pitt Ohio, with some of those jobs were coming from Cleveland, that forced us to push the pause button on moving forward until that project was done, because we offered an economic development incentive," DeGeeter said. "Even though that project is currently under construction, the fact that we signed an economic agreement with Pitt Ohio, Cleveland Water thought that was now good enough for us to now move ahead," he said. Parma Assistant City Engineer Hasmukh Patel said that going forward, the city will twice a year apply for Cleveland Water funding to cover needed infrastructure projects. The next round will be announced in the spring, with cities applying in January. The mayor added that prior to City Council approving the new agreement, Patel provided Cleveland Water with a couple of theoretic Parma projects, which all scored high. "We'll see a lot of projects being done," DeGeeter said. "We're in a good competitive advantage to get some of these funds. The projects we had them score are all in the northeast corner of the city. We'll figure out which ones we'll start moving forward with next year." Many organizations are using security cameras in their public spaces, but they may not have a good policy in place concerning their use. Security cameras are reasonably inexpensive, easy to install and may be placed anywhere there is a somewhat strong Wi-Fi signal. SOLON, Ohio -- The Solon city motto is "Service over self," and the city plans to show that there is meaning behind those words when it holds a Hurricane Florence Donation Drive benefit event. That event will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at the Solon Community Center, 35000 Portz Parkway. In September, the major Category 4 hurricane did extensive damage in the Carolinas, primarily due to flooding, and killed 42 people. In the hurricane's aftermath, thousands were left in need of shelter, food, water, recovery support and basic needs. The idea to hold a donation drive was spurred by an administrative coordinator in the Solon Finance Department, who also is a U.S. Navy veteran. "Frank Corlett, an employee with the Finance Department, approached me with the idea for this donation drive," Mayor Ed Kraus said in a news release. Speaking of the motto "Service over self," Kraus continued, "Our residents, businesses and employees live it every day, and this confirms our passion to help others in need. "Frank (and city employees) Allyne Zamcheck, Dave Peleg and Michelle Dinda should be commended for all of their hard work in putting this fundraiser together. They have contacted local businesses who are donating food and raffle prizes for the event," Kraus said. Corlett said that more than 30 businesses and organizations agreed to participate. Speaking about his background and the need for the event, Corlett said: "I joined the city in 2017. Just before that, I served seven years in the Navy. I've been pretty much service oriented my whole life. "I have a lot of friends who have been affected by hurricanes. I was at the Hurricane Katrina site and I saw the flooding and the houses that were destroyed. "Millions of people were affected by Hurricane Florence, and if we can help even 100 people, that's 100 less people who have to suffer," he said. Corlett said the fundraiser's goal is to raise $5,000. Specifically, the money will go to the American Red Cross and to the charitable organization GlobalGiving. The cost for a ticket is $25, which includes a chance at the door prize, which has not yet been decided upon. Attendees will have the opportunity to bid on gift baskets while enjoying finger foods and music spun by DJ Bill Conklin. Tickets are available at the front desk of Solon City Hall, 34200 Bainbridge Road, and, weather permitting, at the Solon Fall Festival, to be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 6 at the city's community park. Tickets can also be purchased at the door. Tickets for the 50-50 raffle will be available for $2 each, and for the Chinese raffle at $1 apiece. Only cash will be accepted for the raffle tickets. Cash and checks, made out to the American Red Cross, will be accepted for event tickets. If not in attendance, raffle winners will be contacted using the phone number they provide on their tickets. For further information, call 440-248-1155. If you live in a state being bombarded with Senate campaign ads, get ready for an all-out assault this month. Political action committees, or PACs, have raised more than $790 million for the upcoming midterm election. But only about a third of that money has been spent on behalf of congressional candidates so far, according to a CNBC analysis of campaign finance data. And though there are 35 Senate seats up for re-election, the bulk of so-called outside spending is being deployed in just 10 of the most competitive races. With just five weeks left to the crucial November election, PACs are flooding the airwaves and Web sites with mostly attack ads in a battle for control of the Senate. There's no limit to how much these so-called "soft money" groups can spend as long as they don't coordinate their spending with individual candidates. Ratings agency Moody's has warned that if Britain crashes out of the European Union (EU), it could threaten the health of the continent's aerospace and defense firms. In an update to the markets on Wednesday, Moody's identified firms including Rolls-Royce, Airbus and Leonardo Spa as major European companies that would be most impacted by changes to cross-border movement of parts and equipment. It said these companies would suffer because of their U.K. sales exposure, the location of their factories, and risks to certification of parts. Moody's added in a statement that border delays could delay deliveries of commercial aircraft or military equipment and cause a strain on working capital. The agency said it would expect bigger companies in the sector to better manage their manufacturing footprint, but that changes to the location of factories would take time "because of the significant costs and planning." Moody's added that smaller aerospace and defense companies would be hardest hit by a no-deal Brexit because they would lack the scale, resources and liquidity to make changes to operations. The statement qualified that Moody's still believed that the United Kingdom and EU will avoid a hard Brexit that would prevent British-based firms having to default to World Trade Organization rules. But Moody's said that as the clock continued to wind down until Britain's scheduled departure on March 29, the prospect of a hard exit was growing. "The risk of a 'no-deal' Brexit scenario is increasing and will remain a significant near-term threat to the aerospace and defense industry until a withdrawal agreement with transitional arrangements is signed," said Jeanine Arnold, a Moody's vice president and author of the report. Arnold also noted that any British exit without a deal would put the country's membership of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) at risk, adding that if U.K. firms dropped out of the regulatory approval scheme it would cause "substantially negative fallout" for European aerospace and defense. The head of Chipotle Mexican Grill's food safety will step down from his post and retire next year, according to a report by Bloomberg. James Marsden, a former Kansas State University professor, was hired by Chipotle in 2016 to help the burrito chain rebuild its reputation after it endured a number of setbacks as a result of several very public foodborne illness outbreaks at its restaurants starting in 2015. While Chipotle is not the only restaurant to struggle with food-safety issues, repeated problems have kept them in the news and made investors and customers wary. Diners looking for upscale, healthier burritos expect quality and have not been as forgiving of Chipotle's numerous food-safety mishaps. While sales have been improving, a recent outbreak of Clostridium perfringens at a Chipotle in Ohio has once again caused consumers to question the brand's practices. The foodborne disease occurs when food is kept too warm for too long. In an effort to combat future issues, Chipotle will deploy Zenput at more than 2,400 restaurants. Zenput is a mobile platform that helps restaurants, convenience stores and retailers track their operations using a tablet or phone. The software allows managers to assign a checklist of specific tasks to various jobs, like opening or closing the store, food storage or even new menu item roll-outs. Shares of the company remained flat after the closing bell Wednesday but are up more than 51 percent since January. Representatives from Chipotle did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment. WATCH: This former Taco Bell chief has big plans for Chipotle European stocks posted solid gains by the end of Wednesday's trade, as market players kept a close eye on Italian politics and shrugged off concerns surrounding global trade. The pan-European Stoxx 600 rose 0.50 percent by the close with all but one of the region's sectors closing in positive territory. Telecoms and media were the strongest performers, closing up more than 1 percent each as a group, while retail dipped into the red. On the bourses front, the U.K. FTSE 100 rose 0.48 percent, while France's CAC 40 popped 0.43 percent. In peripheral Europe, most markets closed higher. Germany's DAX was closed on Wednesday, in light of German Unity Day. In Europe, Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera reported Wednesday that the government was planning to lower its deficit from 2.2 percent in 2020, to 2 percent in 2021, from an expected 2.4 percent next year. Though the spending plans are much higher than what the previous government planned, the willingness to decrease the deficit in the coming years lifted sentiment. On Wednesday, Italy's FTSE MIB closed up 0.84 percent. Looking at individual stocks, Altran Technologies led the gains in Europe, finishing up 9.13 percent, following a ratings upgrade. Also among the biggest climbers was ITV, which jumped over 3.5 percent after denying speculation that it would bid for Endemol Shine, the production company behind "Big Brother" and "Masterchef." At the other end of the index stood Norsk Hydro, which dropped 11.85 percent, hitting the bottom of the continental benchmark after it said it would halt production at Brazil's Alunorte, the world's largest alumina refinery. Shares of Tesco slumped 8.6 percent, after the supermarket retailer's saw its first half profit miss analysts' forecasts, following weak trading seen overseas. Luxury carmaker Aston Martin started trading on the London Stock Exchange for the first time. However, shares ended deep in the red, following its market debut on the back of concerns that the brand will struggle to deliver an ambitious roll-out of new models. Honda is taking a stake in General Motors subsidiary Cruise Holdings as part of a plan for the Japanese and American automakers to work together developing and building an autonomous vehicle. The investment of $2.8 billion over the next 12 years includes Honda paying GM $750 million immediately as it takes a 5.7 percent stake in Cruise Holdings. General Motors said the Honda investment puts the Cruise valuation at $14.6 billion, or about a third of GM's $48 billion market value. It comes just months after Softbank's Vision Fund invested $2.25 billion in the GM unit. GM shares jumped as much as 7 percent on the news in premarket trading but by mid-morning the stock was up less than 2 percent. The Detroit automaker's shares are down more than 21 percent over the past year. Honda's U.S. shares were down more than 3 percent in trading Wednesday. Together, GM and Honda will develop and build a wide-use autonomous vehicle intended to be deployed worldwide. The vehicle will be manufactured at a General Motors plant, though no date has been set for deployment of the vehicle. An influential Democratic fundraising committee is turning to two of the party's most experienced and prolific moneymakers Hillary Clinton and Nancy Pelosi during the final stretch of the campaign as Democrats look to seize control of Congress. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, which helps Democrats get elected to the House, is hosting a pair of New York fundraisers in October featuring Pelosi, the House minority leader, and Clinton, the party's 2016 presidential nominee, according to a person who was invited to the events. The events are expected to take place on Oct. 15 in Manhattan. Clinton will be featured at a lunch with some of the nation's top Democratic donors. Later that day, Pelosi, along with Rep. Ben Lujan, D-N.M., are scheduled to be guests at a dinner, according to the person, who declined to be named. The DCCC aims to raise $1 million at each event, just three weeks before the midterm election, the person said. Invitees are expected to contribute a $50,000 bundled donation, the person added. The DCCC has raised just over $206 million throughout the 2018 election cycle, while spending $143 million in support of candidates, according to the nonpartisan Center for Responsive Politics. Committee officials have been telling donors about the upcoming Manhattan events with Pelosi and Clinton. A hard copy of the invitation is expected to be given to donors in the coming days. A spokesman for Pelosi referred CNBC to the DCCC. A spokeswoman for the committee did not return repeated requests for comment. Representatives for Clinton and Lujan also did not return requests for comment. The National Republican Congressional Committee, which raises money and advocates for GOP House candidates, argued that featuring Clinton and Pelosi at fundraisers will only weaken Democrats' standing with voters in key battleground districts. "Voters in battleground districts will be disappointed to hear Hillary Clinton and Nancy Pelosi are bankrolling Democratic candidates because he or she will be a reliable vote for progressive policies," the spokesman said. The inclusion of Clinton and Pelosi in a pair of fundraisers during the campaign's final stretch is the latest example of how important the two establishment leaders are to the party's fortunes, despite criticism within Democratic ranks. Through July, Pelosi had raised over $90 million for the DCCC, according to a source with direct knowledge of the matter. Her prowess on the fundraising circuit is the reason many, including the party's top donors, expect her to become House speaker if the Democrats take back the chamber despite several Democratic candidates saying they wouldn't vote for her. "Nobody within Democratic leadership has stepped up to help work the money circuit, and they don't need to because they have Pelosi," said one party operative, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. "The only person who could have challenged her for speaker was Congressman Joe Crowley, but with his loss and her extensive work on the campaign trail, all talk of her not becoming the next leader has gone away." Crowley, a 10-term incumbent from New York, was upset by ultra-liberal Democratic newcomer Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in June. While Clinton has remained relatively quiet throughout the midterms, she will be headlining her first campaign event on Monday in Chicago with J.B. Pritzker, the Democratic gubernatorial candidate in Illinois. Pritzker is a longtime Democratic donor who backed Clinton for president in 2016. Clinton is also going to be featured in three Democratic National Committee fundraisers in the lead up to Election Day, according to NBC News. The events will be held in San Francisco, Chicago and New York, and they're being billed as "intimate dinners with discussion." "This broken budget process, coupled with the federal government's spending problem, is exactly why people don't trust the government to use their hard-earned dollars responsibly. " To start tackling our spending problem, we should prevent unauthorized spending so that taxpayer dollars are only spent on programs that are working and properly scrutinized. I have a proposal, the Unauthorized Spending Accountability (USA) Act that prevents spending on programs that have not received sufficient oversight or authorization. It will allow us to do our job of reviewing, rethinking, and possibly eliminating government programs that are currently running on autopilot. But we can't fix a spending problem without knowing how much we're actually spending. In order to get a more accurate picture, we should institute zero-base budgeting-- a budget process that looks at what is needed for the upcoming period, regardless of whether the budget is higher or lower than the previous years. Next, implementing regulatory budgeting would provide an accurate count of how much a regulation will cost the economy. If we account for how much we will extract in taxes, we should also track compliance costs of red tape. Finally, it is a commonsense approach to enforce the debt limit as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) instead of a fixed dollar amount. Put another way, we need to measure our debt against how much our economy produces. Separate from fixing the spending problem, but just as crucial, is getting the budget to run on time. While the Budget Act establishes deadlines for Congress and the administration, Congress rarely meets these deadlines. To stop Congress from lurching from crisis to crisis, we should move to biennial budgeting and a calendar-year budget cycle. This will allow more time to assess programs and provide necessary, effective oversight. The U.S. Senate is also a roadblock to passing responsible government funding. It's time for the Senate to consider a simple majority, rather than the 60-vote threshold, on must-pass spending bills. Unfortunately, the Senate's outdated rules empower a small minority of senators to obstruct the will of the American people by holding must-pass measures hostage over partisan politics. We saw this when the Republican-controlled House passed all 12 appropriation bills last year with conservative policies included. Unsurprisingly, Senate Democrats blocked them all. As a result, we passed multiple continuing resolutions, endured a government shutdown for nearly three days and temporarily agreed to lift spending limits in order to pass funding through the House and Senate. We can avoid this in the future by changing the Senate's vote threshold. Thomas Borgen, resigned CEO of Danske Bank before the press conference about the money laundering scandal in the bank in Tivoli Congress Center in Copenhagen, Denmark September 19, 2018. The world's biggest money-laundering scandal had yet to be uncovered in August 2015, but management at Danske Bank were trying quietly to close down the business at the heart of it. Russian entities and others from former Soviet states had moved 200 billion euros through the Estonian branch of Denmark's biggest lender since 2007, roughly 10 times the size of the Baltic state's economy. Then executives from Deutsche Bank, which was handling much of the cross-border payments for Danske and is itself no stranger to scandal, made an astonishing claim. They told Danske the problem was getting worse. Despite a reduction in payments from Estonia in the previous two years, there had been an increase in the proportion of suspect cases the German lender was having to investigate from the small branch. "In [the second quarter] of 2015 alone there had been 16 cases related to such crimes as narcotics, ID stealing, etc," state the minutes of the meeting between senior managers from both banks and seen by the Financial Times. Deutsche later that month identified 10 Danske customers who had been involved in "suspicious behavior". Danske managers complained in an internal email that Deutsche was "not allowed by the FBI and DEA [Drug Enforcement Administration] to inform us about the cases with direct links to active criminal cases". The German bank terminated its relationship to clear US dollars for Danske out of Estonia. But it would take another three years before the story emerged of how a small branch of a mid-sized European bank became a pipeline for an enormous flow of money out of Russia, Azerbaijan and Latvia on a scale that puts other money laundering scandals in the shade. No one comes out of it well: not Danske executives, its board nor regulators. It has cost the chief executive Thomas Borgen his job, and triggered investigations in at least six countries. And despite the bank's own report on the scandal, published in September, much remains unknown from the source of the money to where it ended up and just what the final damage will be to Danske and even Denmark itself. "200bn is of a different order than anything seen thus far," says Graham Barrow, a UK money laundering expert who has reviewed thousands of transactions from Danske and others. "It sets an unwelcome benchmark for money laundering scandals." Danske's troubles began almost immediately after buying Sampo Bank, a Finnish lender, in 2007. The Estonian branch represented just 0.5 percent of assets in Denmark's largest bank which would be badly hit by the global financial crisis. By 2008, the non-resident business in Estonia which serviced customers from outside the Baltic country, especially from Russia accounted for 8 percent of Danske group's DKr2.23bn pre-tax profits. The bank's management in Copenhagen had already received warnings. In 2007, Estonian regulators and even the Russian central bank told Danske what it had got into. "Clients of Sampo Bank permanently participate in financial transactions of doubtful origin," the Russian central bank said, estimating that billions of rubles monthly were involved, according to the Danske report into the scandal. In charge of the Estonia operation from 2009 to 2012 in his role as head of international banking was Mr. Borgen. In 2010 he talked of "expanding slowly" the non-resident business and told other executives he had not "come across anything that could give rise to concern," according to the lender's report into the scandal. That expansion saw about 6,500 non-resident customers added by Danske to the roughly 3,300 it inherited from Sampo in 2007. By 2013 about 32bn flowed through the Estonian non-resident portfolio. JPMorgan, which handled dollar transactions for Danske in Estonia alongside Deutsche, quit in July, citing concerns about non-resident customers. "This should have been a massive warning signal that such a large bank will not deal with you due to suspicious customers," says one person familiar with the investigations. At a subsequent meeting, Danske's board discussed the JPMorgan decision and the non-resident business. Lars Morch, who had replaced Mr. Borgen as head of the international business, said Danske's non-resident portfolio was bigger than its rivals' and "needed to be reviewed and potentially reduced", according to minutes of the meeting seen by the FT. Mr. Borgen, by then chief executive, "emphasized the need for a middle ground and wanted to discuss this further outside of this forum," the minutes state. Danske's own report says: "Thomas Borgen has explained that he does not recall which 'middle ground' he was referring to." But a person involved in the investigation described it as a crucial moment. "This was the point at which a decision was made not to stop this business," the person says. Toward the end of 2013, an internal email changed everything. Entitled "Whistleblowing disclosure knowingly dealing with criminals in Estonia branch", it was written by Howard Wilkinson, Danske's head of markets in Estonia. Its content was explosive. Detailing a "near total process failure", he referred to a UK limited liability partnership called Lantana Trade which had opened an account at Danske in Estonia the previous year. Its account was marked "dormant" at UK Companies House and yet it had a credit balance at Danske of $965,418 on the same date. A colleague later told Mr. Wilkinson that the bank did not know who the beneficial owners were but "apparently it was discovered that they included the family of Vladimir Putin, Russia's president, and the FSB [Russia's intelligence service]", according to the email seen by the FT. The claim is denied by the Kremlin: "President Putin has nothing to do with the mentioned bank," it said. Danske's internal audit team was sent to investigate the Estonia operation in January 2014. Yet Mr. Wilkinson complained in a further email in April that despite his warnings "no related client account has been closed by management" and "there appears to have been no attempt by management to identify the full scope of the problem of UK LLPs submitting false accounts". He reported that a senior executive told him "[Danske Bank] is not the police" and "[Danske Bank] has no obligation to report false client accounts to the authorities." That same day, he resigned and sent an email to Copenhagen, signing off: "Sad to say, it seems to me that things are totally broken here." Mr. Wilkinson is now represented by the American lawyer who helped secure one of the biggest whistleblowing payouts in history under US bounty laws. The Wilkinson emails and a critical report from Estonian regulators were discussed by both Danske's management and board throughout 2014 and by the end of the year it had terminated relationships with about a quarter of non-resident customers. By late December 2015 the non-resident unit in Estonia was closed. It was only in the spring of 2017, when the Danish newspaper Berlingske published a series of articles, that the size and scale of the problems at Danske started to emerge. The bank was forced to launch its own investigation, recruiting Bruun & Hjejle, a law firm which had worked for it before, to produce the report published last month. While it established a timeline of events, the report left a number of big questions unanswered. It is still not known where much of the 200bn came from. The report mentions three scandals the bank was tied up with laundromats in Russia and Azerbaijan, scams that funneled tens of billions of dollars out of those countries, and the alleged $230m Russian fraud uncovered by lawyer Sergei Magnitsky before his death in a Russian prison cell in 2009. Even less is known about where the money went after leaving Danske. "We have to accept that a lot of this money will be here," says London-based Oliver Bullough, whose recent book Moneyland explores how kleptocrats have exploited western financial and legal systems. "Russians tend to invest strategically back in Russia. And spend their money elsewhere, on houses and yachts. A lot of it will be in the obvious places like New York and Monaco. But the UK will be top of the list." The second-biggest proportion of customers by geography of non-residents at the Estonian branch were UK entities, largely LLPs like Lantana flagged by the whistleblower, or similar vehicles called Scottish limited partnerships. Nominally these shell companies are registered in the UK with a named partner but these in turn can be anonymous shells in secretive tax havens, with their ultimate beneficial owners hidden under layers of corporate identities. The UK's National Crime Agency has opened an investigation into one such LLP with ties to Danske. The ease with which LLPs and SLPs can be set up it costs as little as 50 through an official formation agent boosts the government's mantra that the UK is a place where it is easy to do business. But it also attracts money launderers and organised criminals, something the government has had to concede. There are also questions about the roles of many involved in the scandal. Hermes EOS, the shareholder rights group, wants Danske's board to explore whether it should sue any senior managers. The Bruun & Hjejle report says 42 "employees and agents have been deemed suspicious" but does not name them. It clears the two employees it does name, Mr. Borgen and chairman Ole Andersen, of any breach of their employment contract. Yet separate criminal and civil inquiries are under way in both Denmark and Estonia while the UK, Finland and Switzerland have opened their own investigations. "It's easy to understand that there's a lot of public uproar," says Jesper Berg, head of the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority. "It's a continuation of the financial crisis. There is this sense of unmet consequences for the financial sector." Questions have also been asked as to whether Danske received special treatment from its regulator, which was until May headed by the bank's former chief financial officer. Mr. Berg denies that was the case and points to the reopening of the FSA investigation into Danske. The revelations come at the worst possible time for the EU, whose laxity in the policing of money-laundering has already been shown up in various cases, from Malta and Cyprus to Latvia and the Netherlands. Technically, it is a bank's home supervisor that is responsible for checking its money-laundering controls, including foreign branches. If a bank has a foreign subsidiary which has ringfenced capital and management then the duty passes to the regulator in the host jurisdiction. In the case of Danske's Estonian branch, ultimate responsibility lays at the door of Danish regulators. But home regulators can only operate efficiently if they have the co-operation of hosts. That has prompted Andrea Enria, chief executive at the European Banking Authority, to back calls for a new pan-EU body dedicated to fighting the tide of dirty money. "If you are in the single market, the strength of anti-money laundering controls can only be as high as the weakest link," he says. For Danske, the biggest risk remains any US action. Marshall Billingslea, the US Treasury official in charge of fighting terrorist financing, told Berlingske: "We are following this case very closely." In 2012, HSBC was fined $1.9bn for laundering $881m of drug trafficking money for the Mexican Sinaloa drug cartel. If even a fraction of the 200bn in questionable Danske flows turns out to be actual money laundering its own report says a "large part" was suspicious that will dwarf HSBC's problem. Analysts at Jyske have predicted a global fine of as much as $8bn for Danske if wrongdoing is proven. But a fine may be the least-worst scenario. The US Treasury could order banks that clear dollars on behalf of Danske to stop. That is what it did in February in the case of ABLV, the largest non-resident bank in Latvia that was forced to liquidate itself earlier this year after being accused by the US of breaking sanctions against North Korea. Rasmus Jarlov, business minister, has said Denmark is doing all it can to avoid ABLV's fate. "We're dealing with it here, and we crack down hard on money laundering, and we hope this is being noticed abroad," he said last month. A big concern is just how far dirty money has spread. Mr. Barrow, the anti-money laundering expert, worries that large numbers of banks and law firms have made themselves vulnerable due to the amount of Russian cash flowing through the system. He told one British bank: "You need to think about a day when Putin turns against us. He will be sitting on a treasure trove of information." At its peak in 2013, Danske had a market share of about 9 percent of non-resident money in the Baltics. As eye-watering as the sums involved in its scandal are, some wonder what more is out there. Mr. Bullough says: "We only know about Danske because Howard Wilkinson stuck his head above the parapet, but how many other banks in the Baltics were doing exactly the same thing?" Morocco topped the podium of the biggest car producers in the African continent, outpacing South Africa, the Wall Street Journal reported. In 2017, Moroccos two leading car factories in Tangier and Kenitra achieved a joint output of 376,000 cars, worth 70 billion dirhams. In South Africa, only 331,000 cars were made the same year. Between 2014 and 2017, total jobs created in the automotive sector in Morocco rose to 83,845. Last month, media reports said talks are ongoing between Morocco and the German car giant Volkswagen to set up a plant. Morocco raised its automotive industry target to 1 million vehicle by 2025 in light of the positive results shown by the sector, which is a valuable source of foreign currency for the country and which could generate 200 billion dirhams. Cars dominated Moroccos exports in the first six months of 2018 with 35.973 billion Dirhams, as the country continues to attract automotive investments. Supreme court nominee Brett Kavanaugh testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on September 27, 2018. Christine Blasey Ford, 51, who testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee last week, said a highly intoxicated Kavanaugh held her down on a bed and tried to undress her at a party in the early 1980s. The Times' report comes amid an increasingly tense week on Capitol Hill, as Kavanaugh's advancement toward a confirmation in the Senate has been held up pending a probe by the Federal Bureau of Investigation into allegations of past sexual misconduct against him. A 1983 letter written by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh described himself and his Georgetown Preparatory School classmates as "loud, obnoxious drunks with prolific pukers among us," The New York Times reported Tuesday . Kavanaugh, 53, has vehemently denied the allegations against him and insisted: "I've never sexually assaulted anyone." Kavanaugh's drinking in high school and college has become a focus for some lawmakers who oppose his candidacy or who are undecided. On Thursday, Kavanaugh told the Judiciary Committee that he drank beer in high school, but that he never blacked out from drinking. Kavanaugh wrote the letter to seven friends in advance of a weekend getaway to a beachfront property in Maryland, the Times reported. It was not clear if the postscript, where Kavanaugh references his group of friends as "drunks" was meant in jest. "Advise them to go about 30 miles if ..." the letter continues before the Times' copy is no longer legible. "The danger of eviction is great and that would suck because of the money and because this week has big potential. (Interpret as wish.)," Kavanaugh wrote in the letter, according to the Times. Read the full report from The New York Times. WATCH: Trump says it's fine if FBI interviews Kavanaugh and accusers Christine Blasey Ford swears in at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in on Capitol Hill September 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. Getty Images Before last week's Senate judiciary hearing into sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh was scheduled, Republican Senator John Cornyn complained that the proceedings would amount to a "show trial" a public spectacle with a predetermined outcome rather than a serious inquiry into the truth. Last week's riveting testimonies by Kavanaugh and his accuser, 51-year-old psychology professor Christine Blasey Ford, did at times remind me of early Soviet mock trials, the focus of my dissertation research as a scholar of Russian literature and culture. Soviet values Trying acquaintance rape One 1925 fictional trial, The Trial of Citizen Fedor Sharov Accused of Spreading Gonorrhea, reveals that there's nothing new about the "he said, she said" aspect present in judging sexual assault allegations including those lodged against Kavanaugh. Sharov is a fictional 21-year-old factory worker accused of bringing his fellow worker, 19-year-old Anna Nikolaeva, to a private room in a bar, where he gets her drunk and rapes her. The mock trial focuses on whether Sharov gave Nikolaeva gonorrhea, with the aim of teaching the Soviet public about the spread and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. But in the script, the prosecutor also seeks a charge of rape against Sharov, arguing that his sexual assault is also a crime. Like the accusations against Kavanaugh, which allege that he physically assaulted Ford at a party in high school, this mock trial tackles not stranger rape but sexual violence committed by an acquaintance. Nikolaeva explains that before the rape Sharov had pursued her aggressively. When she rebuffed him, he insisted, saying he wanted "to be more than your comrade" a statement that demonstrates Sharov's retrograde attitudes about gender. In Soviet Russia, women were supposed to be equal to men. Other characters in the mock trial condemn Sharov for harboring "old ideas and views about women," with one witness even saying the rape allegations don't surprise him. Ultimately, the prosecutor uses Sharov's misogyny to argue for a guilty verdict, declaring that the defendant sees his female co-workers and fellow students not as comrades, but as people "to seduce and ruin." Women's dubious credibility Even in allegedly gender-equal Soviet Russia, Nikolaeva struggles to convince the men in power that she was raped. The judge begins the proceedings by asking whether she told anyone about the assault. Like many sexual assault survivors, Nikolaeva says she did not. "Who was there to tell?" she asks. "I was ashamed." The defense attorney proposes that perhaps Sharov raped Nikolaeva because "he really liked" her, equating sexual violence with affection. Even the prosecutor offends his star witness by asking if she has sexual partners "other than Sharov." The trial concludes with a mixed verdict: Sharov is convicted of infecting Nikolaeva with gonorrhea but acquitted for her rape because Nikolaeva willingly accompanied him into the bar. He said, she said Other Soviet mock trials on sexual health demonstrate similar disregard for women's experiences. In the 1925 Trial of a Prostitute and a Procuress, Stepan Klimov accuses the sex worker he visited, Zinaida Evdokimova, of knowingly infecting him with syphilis, which she vigorously denies. Klimov claims he did not sleep with anyone other than Evdokimova. And as a prostitute she must have known she had syphilis, the prosecution insists. Evdokimova tearfully explains that she could not have intentionally infected Klimov because she would have sought treatment had she known she was ill. "No one wants to rot alive," she says. As her defense attorney points out, the government's case is based entirely on assumptions and the victim's testimony. Nevertheless, Evdokimova is convicted. A referendum on abortion The issues debated in the 1923 Trial of the Midwife Lopukhina Who Performed an Abortion Operation that Resulted in the Death of a Woman also feel modern. Its purpose was to teach the Soviet public about abortion, which had just been legalized in 1920. Russia was the first European country to allow the procedure, but only when performed by a doctor, at his discretion, in a clinical setting. As each side debates the merits of the midwife's actions, the trial effectively becomes a referendum on this new woman's right. Numerous characters, including the doctor and expert witness, imply that women who have abortions should be ashamed. The judge explains that, before performing the operation, doctors should "take all measuresto dissuade her." This may sound familiar to those who follow the abortion debate in the United States. Has anything changed? At least some of the social issues troubling early Soviet Russia are still on trial in the United States today. Modern Western society has long been publicly grappling with how to judge women's voices, rights and experiences debates that for over a century have descended into "he said, she said," victim-blaming and shame. Washington, D.C. today differs from 1920s Soviet Russia in many ways. But when it comes to gender matters, I have found, soberingly and unexpectedly, significant similarities. Apple is framing itself as better at data privacy and protection than other tech giants and it is, Elevation Partners' co-founder Roger McNamee told CNBC on Wednesday. "Apple has really done extraordinary things over the last year to protect consumer privacy, but also to create security," McNamee said on CNBC's "Closing Bell." "For implementing [data protection measures] in products without being forced to by the government, they really are a beacon of hope," he added. McNamee's comments follow an interview of Apple CEO Tim Cook with "Vice News Tonight" that aired on Tuesday. In the interview, Cook stopped short of naming names, but seemed to admonish the likes of advertising giants Facebook and Google, which rely on data sharing with third parties. "The narrative that some companies will try to get you to believe is: 'I've got to take all of your data to make my service better.' Well, don't believe them," Cook told Vice. "Whoever's telling you that, it's a bunch of bunk," he added. Cook's company has long taken a distinctive approach to privacy and continues to roll out new hardware that makes it more difficult for external bodies (and Apple itself) to access user information. "It's very simple things, like with their facial recognition, they only store that data on the iPhone. And with things, like Siri, where they process it locally so your data's not in the cloud where it's vulnerable," said McNamee, an Apple investor and early investor in Facebook. "Apple does not talk much about this but the difference is very striking," added McNamee, who has become a leading critic of Facebook. McNamee emphasized that it is important to address data privacy, what with "the hack at Facebook, some of the issues going on with internet of things," which include Amazon's Alexa products and Google Home devices. From phishing schemes to misinterpreted commands, there are plenty of ways personal assistant devices could be compromised, although the likelihood of an all out hack is still relatively low. In the future, companies such as Amazon and Google may have plans to use more of the audio they are privy to both companies filed patent applications for technology that might someday gather audio "used to identify a person's desires or interests, which could be mined for ads and product recommendations," according to a New York Times report. "Those are things that really, really are invasive surveillance where you don't even need to be a customer to be affected," McNamee said. McNamee recommended companies follow Apple's lead but even that might not be enough. "I really think Cook is not only right on this issue, but this is a place where I think the government will have to step in," McNamee said. Nuala O'Connor from the Center for Democracy and Technology said the United States doesn't measure up to global peers when it comes to data privacy law. "We have a sectoral approach, we've got things that protect kids and health and financial services, but there's a heck of a lot of data being collected ... in the internet of things, in your homes in your cars in your daily life we need some baseline permanent rules in the United States to protect the individuals' rights," O'Conner said on "Closing Bell." Whether data is thought of as property of the user or more like a basic human right, O'Connor said it's about time "we need to rebalance the equation between the individual and companies." She praised corporations, like Apple, that are acting more responsibly. "I'm delighted, personally, to see so many good corporate actors step up to the plate and say, 'It's time for some baseline rules that are fair to all players, the industry and most importantly the individual consumers wherever they are in the world," she added. McNamee agreed. If lawyers, bankers or ministers aren't allowed to share peoples' private information for profit, neither should tech companies, he said. "There should be something like that relative to data in the United States," he said. McNamee said the U.S. needs legislation that follows the basic framework of Europe's General Data Protection Regulation, but more tailored to the United States. "The framework, and the basic notion that each person should own their own data and they should be able to control how any company uses that data I think that is a universal point. ... I think we need to have that in the United States," McNamee said. GDPR is a piece of legislation that aims to give consumers control of their personal data collected by companies. It affects organizations located within the EU, as well as companies outside of the region if they offer goods or services to, or monitor the behavior of, people in the bloc. GDPR was approved in April 2016, after which companies had two years to comply. CNBC's Sara Salinas and Ali Montag contributed reporting. Billionaire and former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg will host a fundraiser for Tennessee Democratic Senate candidate Phil Bredesen, CNBC has learned. Bloomberg's involvement is likely to increase scrutiny on one of the tightest races in the midterm elections, as Bredesen, a former Tennessee governor, aims to flip a Republican-held seat representing a state Donald Trump won easily in 2016. The event is being billed to financiers as an opportunity to "join Mike Bloomberg for an evening in support of Governor Phil Bredesen" on Oct. 9, according to the invitation. A person who plans to attend the event said Bloomberg will host the fundraiser at his home in Manhattan. Donors are being asked to contribute up to $2,700 to Bredesen's Senate campaign in order to attend. Representatives for Bredesen and Bloomberg did not return requests for comment. The campaign for Republican candidate Rep. Marsha Blackburn seized on the news to paint Bredesen, who served two terms as Tennessee governor, as an outsider beholden to national Democratic interests. "Phil Bredesen is bought and paid for by Chuck Schumer and Mike Bloomberg. Now, he is returning to his home state to fundraise with another anti-gun, pro-tax and spend it all billionaire," Abbi Sigler said in an email. "The similarities are striking, and this fundraiser is another clear indication that Phil Bredesen will not stand up for Tennesseans' Second Amendment rights." Bredesen grew up just 30 miles outside of Rochester, NY. It's unclear whether he will be attending Tuesday's event. Investment banks and hedge funds say oil prices have rallied too far too fast, but the fear and uncertainty gripping the market will keep pressure on crude futures in the coming weeks. Brent crude hit a new four-year high of $86.74 on Wednesday, fueled by concerns about a shortfall in global supply as U.S. sanctions whittle away at Iranian crude exports. The market is just one month away from the Nov. 4 deadline that President Donald Trump set for oil buyers to stop purchasing Iran's crude. In May, Trump pulled the United States out of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and restored sanctions on OPEC's third-largest oil producer. Much of the world including the European Union, China and Russia oppose the move, but companies around the world have curtailed their imports from Iran for fear of running afoul powerful U.S. sanctions. If you have a sustainable loss in Iran, $90 to $100 is a potential outcome here, but we don't know at this point what's going to happen to Iran Jeff Currie Goldman Sachs global head of commodities research That has pushed oil prices higher and left some analysts saying they cannot rule out a rally to $100 a barrel. There are too many questions about how strictly the Trump administration will enforce the sanctions, how many oil importers will ignore the penalties, and how quickly a group of producers led by Saudi Arabia and Russia can turn on the taps. "There's sort of a fever building in the market right now about what the landscape is going to look like in terms of supply and demand," said John Kilduff, founding partner of energy hedge fund Again Capital. That fever will persist until the market determines how many Iranian barrels will come off the market and whether Saudi Arabia is able to step up to fill the gap, Kilduff said. He believes the uncertainty could push U.S. crude prices up another $10 a barrel to $85, until new supply potentially tamps down the cost early next year. U.S. crude ended Wednesday's trading session at $76.41, climbing more than $1 a barrel to its highest since November 2014. Oil prices rallied despite a large 8-million-barrel increase in U.S. crude stockpiles and confirmation of rising output from Saudi Arabia. Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih announced on Wednesday that the kingdom pumped 10.7 million barrels per day this month, near a national record, and will hike output again in November. "I think the Saudis will ultimately step up, but they're going to be stingy at first," Kilduff told CNBC's "Squawk Box" on Wednesday. "It's going to be a rough winter for consumers at the gas pump, at the heating oil tank, the airlines. Everybody." Saudi Arabia and OPEC have historically waited for supply shortages to develop before raising output, wary that a premature production hike could tip the market into oversupply. But that is cold comfort given the brisk decline in Iran's exports to date. The drop has exceeded expectations, with Iranian exports down about 650,000 barrels a day since April, according to Goldman Sachs. Jeff Currie, Goldman's global head of commodities research, said prices are rising because a lot of investors and oil consumers are buying oil contracts to hedge against the risk of a major supply disruption. At the same time, there aren't enough sellers in the market to relieve the upward pressure on prices. "There's a lot of uncertainty right now. We don't have a clear picture on" Iran, he told CNBC's "Squawk on the Street" on Wednesday. "If you have a sustainable loss in Iran, $90 to $100 is a potential outcome here, but we don't know at this point what's going to happen to Iran." To be sure, Goldman does not think oil will hit $100 because that level assumes Iran's exports will fall to zero, said Currie. Goldman believes Iranian exports will drop by about 1 million bpd to 1.4 million bpd. In that scenario Brent could settle back into a range between $70 and $80 a barrel before year end. Currie believes more Saudi and Russian barrels are on the way, and production from the long-dormant Saudi-Kuwaiti neutral zone could start up within months. He also says the United States has not ruled out releasing oil from the nation's strategic petroleum reserve. "I'm not saying there's not massive upside here, but I think we just have to be a little cautious here and think, 'Hey, it's not an unmanageable position.'" Goldman's position largely aligns with the view at Barclays, which also expects Iran's exports to fall to about 1.4 million bpd. Michael Cohen, head of energy markets research at Barclays, said the rally is built on a series of questionable views. Piraeus Bank said plans to issue debt to bolster its capital were on track on Wednesday as Greece's largest lender by assets faced a near 30 percent share price fall. "The plan's aim is to strengthen the bank's balance sheet and enhance its capital base. The bank has made significant progress on all fronts with regards to the implementation of the plan," Piraeus Chief Executive Christos Megalou told Reuters. Although analysts said the 29.3 percent fall in its shares to 1.16 euros by 1020 GMT was the result of negative investor sentiment affecting the whole banking sector, Piraeus stock was hit hardest, underperforming fellow Greek lenders Alpha Bank, Eurobank and National Bank. Piraeus Bank's restructuring plan, which it has submitted to supervisors at the European Central Bank, involves the issuance of debt, likely to be a Tier-2 bond, among other measures. "The bank is in a continuous dialogue with the supervisory authorities and monitors debt capital markets to identify the window of opportunity for the non-dilutive capital instrument issuance included in the plan," Megalou said. Greek bank stocks have have lost about 34 percent of their value this year as they struggle to tackle non-performing loans stemming from the country's sovereign debt crisis. While Greece emerged from its latest bailout in August, it remains sub-investment grade and yields on its government paper remain relatively high, affecting corporate borrowing costs. Piraeus, which is 26.2 percent owned by the country's HFSF bank rescue fund, has increased its deposit base with a year-to-date rise of about 2 billion euros. It has reduced so-called non-performing exposures, which include loans past due more than 90 days plus restructured loans likely to turn bad, by more than 5 billion euros, the largest reduction by any bank in Greece, Megalou said. "But let's be frank, such oil prices are to some extent the result of the U.S. administration. I'm talking about sanctions against Iran, about political problems in Venezuela and just looking at what's happening in Libya." "President Trump has said he thinks the oil price is too high. Well, probably to some extend he's right, but we are absolutely OK with it at $65 to $75 per barrel to ensure the efficient operation of oil companies and ensure investment," Putin said Wednesday during an address to delegates at the Russia Energy Week forum in Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said President Donald Trump is "right" to complain that global oil prices are too high but added Trump is to blame for higher prices. Putin added: "If we touched upon the topic we are discussing now with him (Trump), I would say, if you want to find the culprit of who's guilty that prices are growing then you should just have a look in the mirror." Putin's comments come after Trump criticized Russia and OPEC for a 2016 deal in which they agreed to curb oil output in a bid to support prices that had slumped in mid-2014 due to a glut in global supply. The deal has worked and oil prices rose. The deal, and subsequent price rise, has drawn criticism from Trump, who said OPEC, Saudi Arabia and Russia are keeping prices high and called on them to increase production and thereby bring down oil prices. Trump's criticism of the major oil producers ignores the fact that his own decision to implement sanctions on OPEC members Iran and Venezuela has also put pressure on oil prices, with markets fearing a shortfall in global supply. Saudi Arabia and Russia have said they could fill any shortfall created by Iran when sanctions go into effect on November 4. The group of OPEC and non-OPEC producers already agreed back in June to ease production limits, in order to take some pressure off prices. Putin defended the deal with OPEC, saying the aim was to balance markets. "As for the reduction of production and keeping it quite low, this is just a tool, this is not our goal. Our goal is to balance the market, when we along with our colleagues from OPEC agreed to cut production this is what we talked about, cutting excessive stocks This is not about the income of oil companies," he said. "If the market is not balanced, there is a situation which leads to reduced investment and finally this will create a deficit on the market and prices will leap." WATCH: Here's what drives the price of oil Dr. Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Qatar's Minister of Energy & Industry, at the OPEC meeting on June 2, 2016 in Vienna, with Abdalla Salem El-Badri, OPEC Secretary General, seated beside him. Qatar's energy minister has defended OPEC's oil market strategy, saying a deal between the oil producing group and non-OPEC producers is not aimed at manipulating oil prices. "OPEC is not trying to manipulate the price, it's trying to bring the market to balance," Qatar's Minister of Energy and Industry Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, told CNBC on Wednesday. President Donald Trump has argued that OPEC and non-OPEC producers' late-2016 deal to curb production, made in a bid to support prices and balance oil market supply and demand dynamics, is hurting consumers. He has called on OPEC's de facto leader Saudi Arabia, and Russia, to raise output. Al-Sada said low oil prices do not necessarily have a positive impact on global economic growth, however. "When OPEC took the measure to restrict the production from its end, as well as some allied (oil producing) countries, it was meant to shave the extra excessive stock which was at a record high that was depressing the oil price. That depression of the oil price led to what? (Did it) lead to a better world economy?," he told a panel moderated by CNBC's Geoff Cutmore at the Russian Energy Week in Moscow. "In fact, there was the worst record for the global economy during that downturn in the oil price," he said. Two people close to Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi, who left the United States last year fearing retribution for his critical views, are concerned about his whereabouts, saying he failed to emerge from Saudi Arabia's consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday. Khashoggi's Turkish fiancee as well as a close friend contacted by Reuters said he had not exited the diplomatic mission for more than 7 1/2 hours after entering to secure documentation of his divorce so that he could remarry. The fiancee, who asked not to be named, said she had waited outside the consulate from 1 p.m local time (1000 GMT) and called the police when he had not reappeared. "I don't know what's happening. I don't know if he's inside or if they took him somewhere else," she said by telephone from outside the compound. Turkish and Saudi authorities, including the Istanbul consulate and the Saudi Embassy in Washington, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. When asked whether the U.S. State Department has sought information from the Saudis and the Turks, an official said, "We have seen these reports and are seeking more information at this time." Khashoggi, a former Saudi newspaper editor and adviser to retired Saudi intelligence chief Prince Turki al-Faisal, has lived in self-exile in Washington, D.C., for more than a year. Since then, he has written columns in the Washington Post criticizing Saudi Arabia's policies towards Qatar and Canada, the war in Yemen, and a crackdown on the media and activists. "I have left my home, my family and my job, and I am raising my voice," he wrote in September 2017. "To do otherwise would betray those who languish in prison. I can speak when so many cannot." Mohamad Soltan, an Egyptian-American activist who sees Khashoggi regularly in Washington, told Reuters that Khashoggi was in the United States on an O-visa, a temporary residency visa awarded to foreigners "who possess extraordinary ability" in the sciences, arts, education, and other fields and are recognized internationally, and had applied for permanent residency status. All public protests are banned in Saudi Arabia, as are political parties. Labor unions are illegal, the media are controlled and criticism of the royal family can lead to prison. Dozens of activists, clerics and intellectuals have been arrested in the past year in a crackdown on potential opponents of the kingdom's absolute rulers. Among them was economist Essam al-Zamil, a friend of Khashoggi's, who was charged this week with joining a terrorist organization, meeting with foreign diplomats and inciting protests. Scores of businessmen were detained last November in Riyadh's Ritz-Carlton hotel in a separate campaign against corruption, unnerving some foreign investors. Most of them were released after reaching financial settlements with the authorities. A piece of legislation is pitting companies against investors and the investors have begun fighting back in earnest. Congress is looking to rein in the influence of so-called proxy advisory firms, which prepare research reports that help inform investors on how to vote in shareholder matters. On Tuesday, Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) and the Council of Institutional Investors (CII) are starting a website to urge American voters not to support this legislation, known as The Corporate Governance Reform and Transparency Act of 2017 (H.R. 4015). "H.R. 4015 would harm workers and retirement savers across the country who entrust institutional investors with making informed investment decisions with their hard-earned money," said Gary Retelny, ISS' president and chief executive, in a statement. The bill would require proxy advisory firms to register with the SEC and allow companies to fact-check their research before it's distributed to investors. That's one of the biggest sticking points for the investor camp. CII, a non-profit association for fund managers, says that giving companies the right to review research would slow down the process. That would give investors who are the proxy advisory firms' paying customers, less time to do their own analysis, CII said in a joint statement with ISS. CII is also concerned that giving companies the right to review research might give them a reason to slant the reports more in favor of the companies in contested situations. The new website (www.ProtectShareholders.org) "corrects the inaccurate rhetoric" and "shines light on the powerful special interests pushing the legislation." The bill passed the House of Representatives in December (238-182). The most recent action was a hearing held by the Senate Banking Committee in June. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Business Roundtable representing Corporate America have sent letters of support recommending the bill. Rep. Sean Duffy, the Wisconsin Republican who introduced the bill, told CNBC in June that the additional oversight is necessary to prevent abuse of power by proxy-advisory firms and monitor potential conflicts-of-interest. But investor community is fighting back. In August, it enlisted a polling company called Morning Consult to survey 1,975 registered voters. The ISS and CII sponsored poll found that a majority 61 percent opposed their senators backing this legislation. Moroccos Justice Minister Mohamed Aujjar canceled a visit to the Netherlands against the backdrop of diplomatic tensions between the two countries after Morocco accused the Netherlands of meddling in its internal affairs. The Dutch Foreign Minister had submitted to his parliament a report describing the verdict against Rif activists as a matter of concern. The move angered Rabat, which protested formally against such a disregard for its sovereignty and legal system. Minister Aujjar decided to postpone his visit especially after the rough talks last week at the UN in New York between Moroccos Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Dutch peer, a governmental source told le360.ma. Aujjar was supposed to be in The Hague on Monday to meet his Dutch peer Ferdinand Grapperhaus with the repatriation of the Moroccan minors on top of the agenda. Last April, Bourita told the press following talks with Dutch Foreign Minister in Rabat that Al Hoceima and the Rif events is a domestic issue that should not be part of any diplomatic agenda between the two countries. This is a purely Moroccan issue Bourita had stressed. Morocco has no lessons to receive and no talks to have with foreign parties on this issue, he had said, adding that Moroccan structures, laws and institutions guarantee to all citizens the freedom of speech and protest. British Prime Minister Theresa May. Sean Gallup | Getty Images Sterling could tank to as low as $1.15 as political divisions deepen, an analyst warned Wednesday. British Prime Minister Theresa May's leadership is under intense scrutiny from a number of disgruntled members of her own party not least former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson. Stephen Isaacs, chairman of the investment committee at Alvine Capital, warned that the British pound could tumble to $1.15 which represents a decline of more than 10 percent from current levels by early 2019 if U.K. lawmakers on both sides quash May's Brexit deal. Isaacs said that the final test for the U.K.'s exit from the EU and May's leadership will be a vote in the British parliament. He said the U.K. opposition Labour Party would likely exploit this "open goal" and vote it down, adding that he expected several euroskeptic lawmakers from May's Conservative Party to follow suit. "The prime minister has to resign, her key policy will be in absolute tatters," Isaacs told CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe." He said May's ousting won't lead to a general election "because turkeys don't vote for Christmas," referring to her party's withering majority in 2017's snap election. "You get an election for leadership of the Conservative Party, and I think Boris (Johnson) will be prime minister, that's my case," he said. Johnson on Tuesday told the Conservative Party's annual conference that May's current Brexit deal is "politically humiliating" and a "constitutional outrage," in a speech that was viewed by observers as a potential leadership challenge. Isaacs compared the possibility of May stepping down to resignations as notable as that of former British prime ministers Neville Chamberlain and Anthony Eden. Indeed, just today May faced an explicit call from fellow Conservative lawmaker James Duddridge to resign. Duddridge submitted a letter of no confidence in the prime minister to the Conservative Party's parliamentary group. "I think that sterling will initially rally when we have the deal, perhaps up to mid-1.30s," Isaacs said. But he added that upside for the U.S. dollar amid a tightening Federal Reserve would likely put downward pressure on the currency. "We've seen what's happened to emerging markets, I think any chance to sell sterling on that kind of scenario should be taken, because as soon as it goes down in flames in parliament in possibly January, early February, sterling's gonna have a real bath, and I think we go down to 1.15 level." The lowest point sterling has reached this year is $1.266, which it hit on August 17. That move was on the back of fears of a hard exit for the U.K. from the EU that would result in the event of a "no deal" scenario. The currency is currently up 1.73 percent against the dollar year-to-date. It was last seen trading 0.1 percent higher at $1.299 following a speech May gave to the Conservative Party Conference on Wednesday. Chequers 'dead in the water' Another analyst added to Isaac's concerns, noting that the U.K. was "completely stuck" in its talks with the EU. "We have to assume that the Chequers proposal in its current form is effectively dead in the water," Stephen Gallo, European head of forex strategy at the Bank of Montreal, told CNBC in an email Wednesday. "Brussels has said it is unacceptable, and because it weds U.K. trade in goods to elements of the 'four freedoms' and ECJ (European Court of Justice) law, it won't get enough votes in the lower house for passage." One major sticking point in the Brexit talks is Northern Ireland. Negotiators on both sides are trying to avoid a hard border that would separate mainland Ireland from its northern neighbor. The issue is a sensitive one, particularly for the British side, due to the historical significance of the sectarianism that had once heavily clouded Ireland. Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York, U.S., on Monday, April 23, 2018. Check out the companies making headlines before the bell: Rolls-Royce, Airbus Ratings agency Moody's identified the aerospace and defense companies at risk if Britain leaves the European Union. The two companies would suffer from the changes to cross-border movement of parts and equipment, according to Moody's. Alibaba Goldman Sachs reiterated its "buy" rating on Alibaba stock and raised its price target to $247 a share. Alibaba will thrive as it dominates new markets in China, according to Goldman Sachs. J.C. Penney The struggling department store chain named Jill Soltau as CEO. The retailer also appointed Soltau, the former CEO of Joann Stores, to its board of directors. Aston Martin (ASTM) The luxury automaker debuted on London markets with a market capitalization of $5.6 billion. Michael Kors Citi upgraded the luxury retailer to a "buy" rating on its steady quarterly earnings wins. The firm said the recent acquisition of Versace "brings uncertainties" but added that Kors did not overpay as "Versace seems to be on the rise." Tempur-Sealy Shares of the company soared after Reuters reported competitor Mattress Firm is preparing to file for bankruptcy. Exxon Mobil The European Union Commission cleared Qatar Petroleum to acquire a 30 percent stake in Exxon Mobil's shale oil assets in Argentina. Microsoft The tech company announced several new products during a press conference in New York on Tuesday, including a new Surface Pro 6 tablet. Apple CEO Tim Cook blasted tech companies which claim greater customer data leads to superior products. That's a "bunch of bunk," Cook said, as he appeared to admonish the likes of advertising giants Facebook and Google, which rely on data sharing with third parties. Tesla CEO Elon Musk gave an ultimatum to the Tesla board of directors before the Securities and Exchange Commission filed its lawsuit Thursday, threatening to quit if he and the company entered into the settlement. Musk settled with the SEC two days later. Cigna Goldman Sachs added Cigna to its list of "Conviction Buys" and raised its price target on Cigna to $250 a share. Getty Images Truckers got their day in court on Wednesday, as a not-quite-complete slate of Supreme Court justices weighed arguments in a closely watched case that could saddle the industry with higher costs that could hit consumers and ripple throughout the economy. In New Prime Inc. v. Oliveira, No. 17-340, the justices heard the case of Dominic Oliveira, a long-haul truck driver who filed a suit against the transportation outfit New Prime three years ago, alleging that the company failed to pay him minimum wage and at times even charged him for working. The case pits business interests against labor groups in the first major case of the term that could have consequences for hundreds of thousands of American workers and potentially millions of consumers. It could shape an industry that generates more than half a trillion dollars in annual revenue. The case also raises questions about the use of the "independent contractor" designation to reduce pay and benefits for workers who perform essentially identical work as employees. On that front, the court's decision could have ramifications for virtually every sector of the economy. It comes amid a bruising confirmation battle for Brett Kavanaugh, whom President Donald Trump nominated in July to succeed Anthony Kennedy, long considered the court's swing vote. Kavanaugh, if confirmed, would solidify a conservative, 5-4 majority on the nation's highest court for the foreseeable future. To liberal court watchers, the case, the first in a trio of arbitration suits set for argument this term, typifies the potential damage that a conservative court could do to American workers. In a dramatic brief filed with the court in July, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., invoked the Declaration of Independence and Niccolo Machiavelli, the Renaissance-era author of influential political treatise "The Prince." The lawmaker argued that the case was part of a "sustained attack by corporations and billionaires, and by the front groups they stand up to mask their identities in this effort." Oliveira's attorneys called New Prime's warnings "an imaginary parade of horribles" in a filing that month. Case could force higher wages The case turns on whether Oliveira was properly categorized as an independent contractor, and, if so, whether he is entitled to a court hearing on his claims or if he must submit to arbitration. Arbitration is generally preferred by employers as a more efficient dispute resolution mechanism, although critics say it can serve as a shield for unfair corporate practices. At issue in the case is the meaning of the nearly 100-year-old Federal Arbitration Act, which exempted certain types of transportation workers from mandatory arbitration agreements. Specifically, the law exempts "contracts of employment." Much of the battle being waged is whether, in 1925, that phrase would have included independent contractors or only employees. Four global tech giants Facebook, Apple, Alphabet and Amazon will oppose an Australian law that would require them to provide access to private encrypted data linked to suspected illegal activities, an industry lobby group said on Wednesday. Australia in August proposed fines of up to A$10 million ($7.2 million) for institutions and prison terms for individuals who do not comply with a court request to give authorities access to private data. The government has said the proposed law is needed amid a heightened risk of terror attacks. Seen as a test case as other nations explore similar laws, Facebook, Alphabet, Apple and Amazon will jointly lobby lawmakers to amend the bill ahead of a parliamentary vote expected in a few weeks. "Any kind of attempt by interception agencies, as they are called in the bill, to create tools to weaken encryption is a huge risk to our digital security," said Lizzie O'Shea, a spokeswoman for the Alliance for a Safe and Secure Internet. She said the four companies had confirmed their participation in the lobbying effort. Representatives for the four firms did not immediately respond to requests for comment. A spokeswoman for Australia's home affairs minister, who is overseeing the legislation, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. If the bill becomes law, Australia would be one of the first nations to impose broad access requirements on technology companies, though others are poised to follow. The so-called Five Eyes nations, which share intelligence, said last month they would demand access to encrypted emails, text messages and voice communications through legislation. The Five Eyes intelligence network, comprised of the United States, Canada, Britain, Australia and New Zealand, have each repeatedly warned national security was at risk as authorities are unable to monitor communication of suspects. Technology companies have strongly opposed efforts to create what they see as a back-door to user's data, a stand-off that was propelled into the public arena by Apple's refusal to unlock an iPhone used by an attacker in a 2015 shooting in California. Frustrated by the deadlock, many countries are moving ahead with legislation, with New Zealand the latest to tighten oversight over access to online communication. New Zealand said on Tuesday customs officers now have the authority to compel visitors to hand over passwords for their electronic devices. Tourists who refuse could face fines of NZ$5,000 ($3,292.00). Singapore-headquartered Cleantech Solar has entered into a 20-year rooftop solar power purchase agreement with a winery in Thailand. Under the agreement, Cleantech Solar will install a 1-megawatt (MW) peak, on-site, rooftop system for the Siam Winery, which was set up in 1986. Its winery is located in Samut Sakhon province, an hour south of Bangkok, while its Hua Hin Hills vineyard is 2.5 hours south of the capital. Cleantech Solar said the system would generate around 26,556 MW hours of clean energy over its lifetime. This will help the winery avoid 15,100 tons of carbon dioxide emissions, it added. Siam Winery's Archie Gracie said that, through its partnership with Cleantech Solar, the business hoped to both reduce its carbon footprint and "drive the adoption of clean solar energy in businesses across Thailand." Cleantech Solar owns and operates more than 120 solar power plants throughout India and Southeast Asia. Raju Shukla, the firm's founder and executive chairman, added that the business looked forward to a "meaningful partnership with Siam Winery to achieve their sustainability goals." WATCH: Canned wine is no longer a fad, it's a $45 million industry President Donald Trump boards Air Force One before departing from Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland on October 2, 2018. The Small Business Administration received a donation from President Donald Trump, which totaled out to the amount of his 2018 second quarter salary, the White House announced on Wednesday. During a White House press briefing on Wednesday, administrator Linda McMahon thanked the president for his support and accepted the contribution. "He clearly understands the value of small businesses," McMahon said of the 30 million small businesses in the U.S. She said the money will be used in SBA's veterans program called Emerging Leaders. This program will be a seven month intensive training that helps veterans transition from military life into the private sector. The president earns a total annual salary of $400,000. Since taking office, Trump has donated his quarterly salaries to various government departments such as Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Health and Human Services, National Park Service and the Education department. But, that will all change according to the 2019 budget proposal the Trump administration released in February. According to this Washington Post report, the proposed changes to funding in Trump's budget will make cuts to executive departments and agencies, including SBA's funding by 25%, in order to pay for additional defense spending, the border wall and an infrastructure plan. WATCH: Trump's White House has been a money-making machine "How did you get home? I don't remember," he said, alternating the inflections. "Where is the place? I don't remember. How many years ago was it? I don't know ... But I only had one beer! That's all I remember." Switching into the voice of a mock questioner, Trump asked, "How did you get there?" Trump was speaking at a campaign rally in Southaven, Mississippi, where the crowd laughed and cheered as the leader of the country mocked Ford's recollection of her alleged attack. In an unscripted monologue Tuesday night, U.S. President Donald Trump ridiculed Christine Blasey Ford's account of her alleged sexual assault by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh in 1982. Following the rally, Ford's lawyer, Michael Bromwich responded to the president's attack on his client with a tweet, calling Trump's remarks "vicious, vile and soulless." "Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well?" wrote Bromwich. Until Tuesday, the president had been largely respectful of Ford in public, even as her allegation caused Kavanaugh's confirmation vote to be delayed in order to give the FBI an opportunity to investigate it. Kavanaugh has strenuously denied Ford's accusation, as well as at least one other credible allegation of sexual misconduct made by a female classmate of his at Yale University. In the Oval Office on Friday, Trump told reporters he thought Ford's testimony the day before had been "very compelling. She looks like a very fine woman to me, very fine woman." Yet even as Trump attacked Ford on Tuesday, presumably in order to benefit Kavanaugh, he also appeared to distance himself from the nominee later on in the rally. "I don't even know him. I met him for the first time a few weeks ago. It's not like I want to protect my friend," Trump said of Kavanaugh, whom he nominated to the Supreme Court in early July. The president's apparent anger at Ford may also have been a reflection of other frustrations for the president, including a major investigation by The New York Times, published Tuesday, into how Trump and his siblings used aggressive tax avoidance strategies to transfer the real estate fortune of their father, Fred Trump, to their own generation. A White House response to the Times story Tuesday night read, in part, "Fred Trump has been gone for nearly twenty years and it's sad to witness this misleading attack against the Trump family by the failing New York Times. Many decades ago the IRS reviewed and signed off on these transactions." WATCH: Trump: It's fine if the FBI interviews Brett Kavanaugh and his three accusers British Prime Minister Theresa May gave a speech Wednesday designed to boost confidence over the country's future once it leaves the European Union (EU) and to brush off her biggest critic and rival, former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson. May said Britain's post-Brexit future is "full of promise" and that the country "has everything we need to succeed" when she addressed party delegates on the last day of the Conservative Party's annual conference in Birmingham, England. Her speech, entitled "Our Future Is In Our Hands," showed that May was seeking to unite warring factions within the party namely, those that favor a "hard" Brexit, those that never wanted to leave the economic and political bloc, and those that are reconciled to leaving the EU but want to remain closely aligned to the continent. May alluded to differences in her party. "Leadership is doing what you believe is right and having the courage and determination to see it through and that's the approach I've taken on Brexit. We've had disagreements in this party about Britain's membership of the EU for a long time, so it's no surprise we've had a range of different views expressed this week," she said. May told delegates that Britain's "best days lie ahead of us" and that countries across the world stand ready to trade with the U.K. once it leaves the EU on March 29. "I passionately believe that our best days lie ahead of us and that our future is full of promise," she said, when she addressed delegates around midday U.K. time (7 a.m. ET). "Don't let anyone tell you we don't have what it takes we have everything we need to succeed." Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May (L) sits with Britain's Former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson. LEON NEAL | AFP | Getty Images Despite the attempt to boost morale within the party, this year's conference has been notable for the stark divide that has been apparent within the Conservatives. The June 2016 referendum on leaving the EU exposed deep ideological divisions within the party (and the country as a whole) and May has struggled to unite party members, and her own cabinet, around her Brexit proposals. Divisions over May's "Chequers plan," which has also been rejected by the EU as unworkable and undermining of the bloc's principles, have led to increasing speculation that May could face a leadership challenge and even another general election. May rebuffed the prospect of a "no-deal" scenario, where Britain leaves the bloc without a deal setting out its future relationship with the EU in place. "No one wants a good deal more than me, but that has never meant getting a deal at any cost," she said. But such a scenario could be overcome thanks to the British people's "resilience and ingenuity," she added. She said Britain would not accept either a deal that "keeps Britain in the EU in all but name" or one that "carves off" Northern Ireland, leaving it within the EU's customs union. The Boris factor A likely contender to lead that challenge is Boris Johnson, the former foreign secretary and one of May's biggest critics. Johnson, gave a rousing speech at a fringe event at the party's annual conference in which he once again criticized her Brexit proposals. Telling party delegates to "chuck Chequers" (after calling her plans "deranged" last week) Johnson said he wanted to "stop a ridiculous seeping away of our self-belief." Johnson's speech was also designed to boost confidence around Britain's post-Brexit future. Although he was preaching to the converted - with those attending the fringe event likely to be fans of Johnson - his speech was widely applauded by the audience and he received standing ovation. An advocate of a "hard" Brexit with benefits -- or what he calls a "Super Canada" deal, referring to the free trade deal Canada has with the EU which allows for zero tariff trade Johnson is seen as the most likely contender for the Tory party leadership. The White House on Wednesday responded to President 's decision to publicly mock Christine Blasey Ford, a woman who alleges she was sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh in 1982. Trump was merely "stating facts," said Press Secretary Sarah Sanders, during her first on-camera press briefing in nearly a month. "No one is looking at whether the accusation has been corroborated," she said. "Every single bit of evidence and facts have supported Judge Kavanaugh." Sanders said Trump is not concerned that his attack on Ford could influence crucial swing votes in the Senate. "The president is very confident in his nominee," she said. She also accused Senate Democrats of "literally trying to undercut the voice of the American people when they elected Donald Trump." Asked whether she believed Kavanaugh was a victim as well, she replied, "I think both Dr. Ford and Judge Kavanaugh are victims at the hands of the Democrats." Speaking at a campaign rally Tuesday night in Mississippi, Trump mocked Ford's recollection of her alleged attack, while the crowd cheered and laughed. "I had one beer!" Trump said, mimicking Ford. "How did you get there? I don't remember. How did you get home? I don't remember," he said, alternating the inflections. "Where is the place? I don't remember. How many years ago was it? I don't know ... But I only had one beer! That's all I remember." Until Tuesday, the president had been largely respectful of Ford in public, even as her allegation caused Kavanaugh's confirmation vote to be delayed in order to give the FBI an opportunity to investigate it. Kavanaugh has strenuously denied Ford's accusation, as well as at least one other credible allegation of sexual misconduct made by a female classmate of his at Yale University. Sanders said Wednesday that the testimony of Dr. Ford was "compelling," but added, "You can't make this decision based on emotion. It has to be based on fact." Yet even as Trump attacked Ford on Tuesday, presumably in order to benefit Kavanaugh, he also appeared to distance himself from the nominee later on in the rally. "I don't even know him. I met him for the first time a few weeks ago. It's not like I want to protect my friend," Trump said of Kavanaugh, whom he nominated to the Supreme Court in early July. South Korean President Moon Jae-in shakes hands with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as they arrive for their meeting at the headquarters of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea in Pyongyang, North Korea, September 18, 2018. As South Korea's economy stumbles, the government is looking to spend hundreds of millions on economic and cultural projects with its northern neighbor. The initiatives are seen as long-term investments to peace, but they threaten to inflate Seoul's debt load and may become a burden if inter-Korea relations hit a road-bump, experts warned. In a September bill to parliament, South Korean President Moon Jae-in's government proposed spending $419 million for various North Korea-related ventures that include family reunions, a joint liaison office as well as sporting exchanges. Those commitments were first mentioned in a declaration signed by Moon and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un back in April. The $419 million figure refers only to 2019 expenditures, and opposition politicians have accused the government of deliberately concealing long-term costs for fear of public backlash. That's led to a delay in ratifying the bill. The multimillion-dollar proposals come as some grow increasingly concerned about South Korea's slowing economy. While the majority of South Koreans say they want peace with Pyongyang, many believe the domestic state of affairs should be a priority for public funds, especially at a time of weak growth. South Korea's full-year gross domestic product is seen at 2.9 percent this year, compared to 3.1 percent last year. Meanwhile, the pace of job creation hit its weakest level in nine years after Moon raised minimum wages and cut working hours moves that have made it difficult for small and medium-sized enterprises to hire new workers. Public discontent with the economy actually pushed Moon's approval rating to 49 percent, the lowest level since he entered office last May, according to a Gallup Korea survey on Sept. 7. The leader's rating ticked up to 50 percent, however, in Gallup's following survey a week later. "Regardless of diplomacy, spending tens of billions of dollars in North Korea at a time when many South Koreans are unhappy with their own economy could be tough to sell politically," said Kyle Ferrier, director of academic affairs and research at the Korea Economic Institute of America. The Blue House, the office of South Korea's president, didn't respond to CNBC's request for comment. Monsef Derraji and Marwah Rizqy, two candidates of Moroccan origin of the Quebec Liberal Party (QLP), were elected to the Quebec National Assembly in the general elections held Monday. Monsef Derraji, representing electoral district of Nelligan in Montreal, won his seat after obtaining 22,406 votes, beating his rivals of the Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ), and the conservative Party of Quebec. Monsef Derraji holds a masters degree in pharmaceutical management from the University of Laval. He worked for fifteen years for two pharmaceutical companies. In 2009, he founded the Quebec Maghreb Congress and is currently CEO of the Coalition of the Young Chambers of Commerce of Quebec. For her part, liberal candidate Marwah Rizqy ranked first in the Saint-Laurent district, winning 17,953 votes. She outperformed all her rivals to gain a seat in the Quebec Parliament. She was born and raised by her Moroccan parents in Montreal. She holds PhD in Tax Law and masters degree in International Taxation from the University of Florida. She has also a bachelors degree in Civil Law and a masters degree in Business Administration (LLB/MBA) from Sherbrooke University. Marwah Rizky is a member of the Quebec Bar Association and the New York State Bar Association. She is also member of the Canadian Tax Foundation and the International Fiscal Association. Currently, she is working as a Professor at the Sherbrooke University and as Co-Director of Graduate Studies in Taxation (Longueuil campus). She set up an income tax center to teach people to file their own income tax returns and make the most of available tax credits. During the past two years, she received the womens leadership Award and Avocate de la releve Award Two-wheeler maker Royal Enfield said its manufacturing facility at Oragadam, Chennai resumed operations from September 29 and that it expects to reach regular level of production in a phased manner. A part of workforce at the plant was not reporting for duty since September 24 after a majority of workers were on strike since the beginning of the week. The company said it had lost production of 10,000 units due to the workers strike at the Oragadam plant. "We expect to reach regular levels of production in a phased manner. Our manufacturing facility at Vallam Vadagal continues to operate and deliver to its full capacity," the company said in a statement. R Sampath, vice-president, Royal Enfield workers union, told the Financial Express that the workers continued to remain on strike and have been invited by the labour commissioner for further talks with the management on Wednesday evening. Sampath, according to the paper, had alleged that the management did not allow the workers to enter the factory to resume their duties on Sunday as they insisted handing over their mobile phones. Apart from this, the workers claimed that the management also cut their salary for eight days in the last month. However, the motorbike maker, clarified that the company did not terminate anyone and said the salary revisions are done annually. "The last annual salary revision was done in April 2018, and the next revision is due in April 2019," the company said in a statement. "We are in dialogue with our plant-based forums to amicably resolve all concerns," the company said in a statement. (With inputs from PTI) Bazaar Corporate Radar | Feb 22, 2021, 12:00 AM IST Bazaar Corporate Radar Bazaar Corporate Radar is your window into the minds of top CEOs, Boardrooms, global economists, fund managers and sector analysts. If it?s making news, you?ll find it on Bazaar Corporate Radar. Gratitude for Smith's work Although I was never in one of Dr. Smith's classes, I want him and his colleagues to know that their work has changed my family's life for the better. Dr. Smith's work in developing bacteriophage display technology led to the creation and approval of a drug called Humira, which my father has relied on for the past few years to manage symptoms of Crohn's disease. Without Humira, my father's quality of life would almost certainly be poorer. Unfortunately, I have seen this firsthand. In the last year, after multiple surgeries to help his Crohn's disease and having to be off Humira, my father suffered for months. He lost a scary amount of weight. He nearly used all of his paid sick leave for the year. We weren't sure what the course of action would be if medication and surgery couldn't help him recover. It wasn't until he was deemed well enough to continue taking Humira that he saw steady improvement and could return to work and to a stable state of physical health. I shared the Columbia Missourian's story about Dr. Smith's winning the Nobel Prize with my father today. He was happy to read it and grateful to know the scientific community is working to help others with conditions similar to his. While Dr. Smith's work has helped treat things like cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease does not often receive the same attention. I wish I could thank Dr. Smith in person for his ingenuity and dedication to his field. It truly has changed lives for the better. I'm proud to know Dr. Smith will continue to inspire future generations of MU students to do the same. Valerie Hellinghausen, BJ '16 Morocco reiterates its refusal of hosting migrant detention centers known as disembarkation platforms allowing the EU to externalize its asylum and migration policies. In an interview with German newspaper Die Welt, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita reaffirmed that his country is generally opposed to all kinds of centers, This is part of our migration policy and a national sovereign position, he said. Bourita blamed political divisions within the EU for blowing the migration problem out of proportion and said Europe had to make up its mind about its southern neighbor: Are we real partners, or just a neighbor youre afraid of? Migration management has uncovered deep rifts in the EU between states with diverging policies. Last month, the EU launched formal talks with Egypt over how Cairo can help curb migration from the region in exchange for financial support. The mayhem in Libya and the tightening of border control by Turkey is pushing increasing numbers of illegal migrants to opt for the Maghreb route, which puts a strain notably on Morocco, viewed as the most attractive route to Europe. Morocco responded to the migration problem by launching a solidarity-based policy granting legal stay to more than 50,000 migrants while cracking down on trafficking networks with at least 80 gangs dismantled so far and 54,000 illegal migration attempts foiled. Back in May, when Microsoft rolled out Win10 version 1803, we saw a behavior never seen before: Some people, when clicking on Check for updates in Win10 1703 or 1709, were pushed into the Win10 1803 upgrade sequence. Im sure theres a parallel universe somewhere in which check for updates is the same as upgrade my machine. Sure glad I dont live there. (To block this update, see this article.) With the announced release of Win10 version 1809 yesterday, its happening again. This time, though, Microsoft has the intestinal fortitude to admit it. Per the official Win10 1809 rollout blurb: While we encourage you to wait until the update is offered to your device, if youre an advanced user on an actively serviced version of Windows 10 and would like to install the Windows 10 October 2018 Update now, you can do so by manually checking for updates. In the Search box in the taskbar, type Check for updates. Once there, simply click Check for updates to begin the download and installation process. We are also streamlining the ability for users who seek to manually check for updates by limiting this to devices with no known key blocking issues, based on our ML model. If we detect that your device has a compatibility issue, we will not install the update until that issue is resolved, even if you Check for updates. There are any number of problems with that approach. First, Microsofts ML model isnt perfect in the version 1803 rollout, we saw numerous times that machines were brought to their knees by bugs in the forced upgrade. Second, upgrading still ties your machine up for ages, in spite of Microsofts attempts to limit the time and timing of the upgrade. Third, the upgrade may have consequences that are great for Microsoft, not so great for you. (Hows your copy of Candy Crush Soda holding up?) Fourth, sorry, but whose machine is it anyway? What gives Microsoft the right to force a new operating system down your throat when you merely check for updates? Poster @b on the AskWoody Lounge says that Win10 customers gave up their rights when they clicked to accept the 6,000-word-long Licensing Terms. I scoured the Licensing Terms document for Win10 Pro, revised June 2018 (Start > Settings > System > About > Read the Microsoft Software Licensing Terms), and only came up with this: Updates. The software periodically checks for system and app updates, and downloads and installs them for you. You may obtain updates only from Microsoft or authorized sources, and Microsoft may need to update your system to provide you with those updates. By accepting this agreement, you agree to receive these types of automatic updates without any additional notice. Which doesnt say anything at all about becoming a seeker Microsoft slang for those who click Check for updates or having a new, buggy, version of Win10 pushed on your system just because some historically faulty machine-learning algorithm decides that its time. So it seems that you can no longer reliably check for updates on your Win10 machine, without the imminent threat of being upgraded to unpaid beta-tester status. Caveat emptor. Can somebody explain to me how Microsoft gets away with this stuff? Join us on the AskWoody Lounge. Singapore sends humanitarian aid to Indonesia's tsunami and earthquake relief efforts Singapore has delivered humanitarian supplies via two Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) C-130 transport aircraft to Indonesia yesterday. This was in support of the Indonesian Governments disaster relief efforts following the earthquake and tsunami on September 28, 2018. The Singapore Armed Forces Mission Commander, Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Oh Chun Keong (right) handing over the relief package to LTC Ali Sudibyo, of the Indonesian Armed Forces (left) at Balikpapan Airport, Indonesia. Photo courtesy: Mindef The relief package, comprised tents, meal rations, bottled water and medical supplies, said a press release by Singapore's Ministry of Defence (Mindef). It was handed over to Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Ali Sudibyo from the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) by the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Mission Commander, LTC Oh Chun Keong. The package, worth approximately $240,000, was donated by the SAF. One of the Republic of Singapore Air Force C-130 transport aircraft that delivered humanitarian supplies to Indonesia at Balikpapan Airport. Photo courtesy: Mindef Following the delivery of the relief package, the two RSAF C-130 aircraft will remain in Indonesia to support the Indonesian Government to evacuate those displaced from disaster-hit areas. Mindef stressed in a statement that Singapore is a close neighbour and friend of Indonesia and the TNI. The ministry and the SAF stand ready to assist Indonesia and the TNI in further disaster relief efforts, if required. May to seek Party unity with an upbeat vision of Britains future. She will accuse Jeremy Corbyn of alienating millions of decent, moderate and patriotic Britons Daily Express PM will say we must be comfortable with diversity Daily Telegraph Regulatory checks in the Irish Sea are a complete non-starter insists Foster Daily Telegraph All shes asking for is a little respect Katie Perrior, The Times Theresa May will insist that Britains best days lie ahead as she seeks to rally her divided party and country today before the final weeks of Brexit talks. The prime minister will offer a future full of promise as she outlines an upbeat vision in her speech at the Conservative Party conference. With the European Commission due to give its final verdict on her Chequers proposals a week today, Mrs May will appeal to her party to seize this moment of opportunity. She will also urge Conservatives to honour their history as the party of Unionism and support a plan that keeps Northern Ireland fully in the UK. The Times >Today: ToryDiary: The Minister who only just became a Conservative and a pledge to freeze fuel duty for another year Theresa May will freeze fuel duty again in a bid to persuade Britain to stick with her as PM. She will reveal Chancellor Philip Hammond is to scrap a scheduled 2p-a-litre rise at the pumps in his October 29 Budget.The freeze, for the ninth year in a row, is a huge victory for The Suns long-running Keep It Down campaign and for our readers. We have persuaded successive Chancellors to halt the annual tax raids on motorists, allowing them to keep almost 1,000 now in total since 2010. The Sun ConservativeHomes Boris Johnson event dominates the conference Theresa May must ditch her outrageous Chequers plan or the Tories will be punished by voters, Boris Johnson has warned. The former foreign secretary accused the Prime Minister of trying to cheat the electorate as he said that her plan will lead to the rise of the far Right and far Left. He rejected claims that Chequers could be changed by a future Prime Minister as a fantasy, and even suggested could face prosecution under 14th century law for giving a foreign power jurisdiction in the UK. The speech at a fringe event in Birmingham was attended by more than 1,400 Tory activists and received a rapturous standing ovation at the start and the end. A leaked document suggested that 23 Tory MPs had signed up to attend. Daily Telegraph >Yesterday: but he is rebuked by the Prime Minister Theresa May has told the BBC she is cross with Boris Johnson after the former foreign secretary launched a fresh attack on her plan for Brexit. The PM said Mr Johnson, who addressed an audience of more than 1,000 people at the Tory conference, could always be relied upon to put on a good show. But she said parts of his speech about Northern Ireland angered her. He wanted to tear up our guarantee to the people of Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland is part of the UK. BBC Hunt is also slapped down The Sun Ministers speech 1) Javid says immigrants must follow British values not just pass a pub quiz Firms must wean themselves off cheap foreign labour Daily Mail Britain may finally be taking back control of its borders Leader, Daily Telegraph At long last! Real action on migration so why do I still have concerns? Andrew Green, Daily Mail Welcome to Britain Leader, The Times Immigrants to Britain must understand the UKs values and in future will have to pass a new citizenship test, Sajid Javid announced today. The Home Secretary said the current Life in the UK test was useful for a pub quiz but did little to help people integrate into British society. Mr Javid told Tory activists in Birmingham new arrivals needed to understand Britain was a liberal, democratic country. He said an important part of the new test would be tougher exams of speaking English. Daily Mail >Yesterday Ministers speech 2) Hancock pledges to end closure of cottage hospitals Health Secretarys battle against dyslexia The Sun Ministers speech 3) Gove suggests Government could launch crackdown on disposable nappies but rules out ban The Health Secretary has promised to end the closure of community hospitals to ensure patients can be treated near their homes. Matt Hancock said it was time to end the era of moving medical departments to large regional hospitals while smaller ones were closed. He wants more patients to be cared for locally, particularly for routine procedures such as scans, physiotherapy and treatment for minor injuries. Set up 150 years ago as cottage hospitals with just a few beds, Britain now has around 500 community hospitals that provide a broad range of services for local patients, including end-of-life care, rehabilitation for the elderly, scans, X-rays and minor injury units. Daily Mail Michael Gove has suggested the Government could launch a crackdown on disposable nappies but was forced to deny that they could be banned. The Environment Secretary had hinted Philip Hammond, the Chancellor, could be poised to outlaw non-biodegradable nappies when he delivers the Budget on October 29. Mr Gove had also suggested people would have to wean themselves off products like disposable ballpoint pens and disposable razors which are difficult to recycle as he addressed a fringe event at Conservative Party conference in Birmingham. Daily Telegraph Cabinet ministers urge May to agree date when she will resign Theresa May is under pressure to set out a timetable for her departure after Cabinet ministers said it was now a question of when, not if she stands down as Prime Minister. The Telegraph has been told discussions have begun about when Mrs May should be ousted if she refuses to leave Number 10 before the next general election. Several Cabinet ministers want her to go immediately after Brexit day in March next year, but others are prepared to give her until 2020 if she uses the next Conservative Party Conference to announce her departure date. They are agreed that Mrs Mays disastrous performance in last years election means she cannot be allowed to lead the party into the 2022 poll, and that a new and fresh leader is needed to rejuvenate the Party and kill off the threat of Jeremy Corbyn. Daily Telegraph Brady says some of the claims about the number of letters sent in are false The Times Who are the frontrunners to be the next Tory leader? Financial Times >Today: Columnist Lord Ashcroft: The Tory MPs who say they have sent in letters they havent. Or withdrawn letters they never sent. Give Party members a greater say in policy, proposes Rees-Mogg Heterosexual couples to be allowed to choose civil partnership The Tories need to be more like Labour and allow their activists to debate and help to decide policies at the partys annual conference, Jacob Rees-Mogg has said. The MP, who is tipped as a future Conservative leader, said he wanted the grassroots engaging in real and exciting debates rather than being forced to listen to pre-packaged speeches. The idea could lead to members influencing party policy, with ministers being forced to respond, just as Labour gives its members a greater role over deciding policy. Daily Telegraph Heterosexual couples will be able to enter into a civil partnership after Theresa May announced her intention to change the law. The Prime Minister said opening up civil partnerships to opposite-sex couples in England and Wales was necessary because some people want to formalise their relationship but dont necessarily want to get married. Human rights activists welcomed the news but some Christian campaigners said it risked further undermining marriage. Daily Telegraph May has stopped reading newspapers FBI have not yet interviewed Ford Theresa May has stopped reading newspapers in the morning to preserve her wellbeing, it has emerged. The PM instead now relies on a daily summary from aides at her regular 8.30am meeting in No10 with them.A senior Downing Street figure told The Sun the decision for Mrs May not to plough through the newsprint is to protect her from a daily diatribe of woes. The source added: None of that is any good for her self belief or wellbeing. Occasionally she might dip into The Times, but shes stopped reading the others. The Sun The FBI team examining sexual misconduct claims against US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh have not yet interviewed his main accuser, her lawyers have said. Writing to the FBI, attorneys for Professor Christine Blasey Ford said it was inconceivable that the agency could conduct a thorough investigation without interviewing her. Prof Ford has testified that Mr Kavanaugh assaulted her as a teenager. The judge vehemently denies that. BBC My sinister battle with Brett Kavanaugh over the truth Ambrose Evans-Pritchard, Daily Telegraph >Today: Columnist Daniel Hannan: Kavanaugh might be guilty. But justice demands that his confirmation should take place. Birrell: May still has everything to play with ONeill: Danger of the clapping ban May might deliver a shock. For inside Downing Street, there is belief they can pull off Brexit and then cling to power. After all, there is no favourite let alone a unifying figure pulling clear of the field to take over. One MP asked 60 activists in his constituency for their preferred choice of candidate: three went for Johnson, two for Hunt and one plumped for Rees-Mogg but the other 54 picked no one. If Brexit is achieved, party members might be in the mood to let her clear out the fractious old guard behind this toxic mess before turning to a new generation to revive the party. Ian Birrell, The Guardian The Safe Space is spreading. Like a B-movie blob, it is rolling off university campuses and into society. It is swallowing up more and more areas of public life, turning them into student-style zones in which certain ideas must never be expressed in case snowflakes feel offended. Just this week, Manchester Universitys student union banned clapping on the basis that it is bad for people with sensory issues. Students who want to show their approval of a speech or lecture will have to do jazz hands raise their hands and wave them silently. Brendan ONeill, The Sun Finkelstein: The second referendum could still happen News in brief Chequers doesnt address basic concerns about democratic control and accountability Robert Courts MP, Brexit Central Liberals must show the courage of their convictions on migration John Ashmore, CapX Soubry attacks young Tories The Spectator Boris Johnsons speech in Birmingham: What he said and what he really meant John Rentoul, The Independent Johnson energises the Tories Finn McRedmond, Reaction Ive talked to lots of MPs and advisers this week and they mostly shrug and says its a mess, but think itll work out all right in the end. Mrs May will bring back a deal and the dissenters will look calamity in the face and vote with her. Or a handful of Labour defectors will save the day. But they really may not. A second referendum may be a horrendous thought it might produce the same result as last time, it might produce a hideous stalemate with a narrow Remain victory but, honestly, it might happen. Daniel Finkelstein, The Times I have often thought of creating a game of Political Focus Group Bingo (for which the market would be admittedly niche) in which the players would tick off words and phrases on their cards as they were uttered by the focus group participants. One of these would be Australian-style points system a locution you will hear more often than not once the subject of immigration has come up, as it has in practically every group I have done since I began my research four general elections ago. Until the referendum, the point was not so much that people thought the volume of immigration was too high (though many did) as that we did not have control over it or the ability to decide who could and could not come in. Nor do people want EU migrants already here to have to leave my polling has found that whatever their view of Brexit, most agree they should be allowed to stay permanently. The plan unveiled this week under which low-skilled migration would be restricted and arrivals from Europe would lose preferential access are a big step towards answering peoples concerns. But as the contributors at an Institute for Government fringe meeting yesterday pointed out, there are still details to settle like exactly who counts as low-skilled, where the qualifying salary level will be set, and of course what happens in the endgame of the Brexit negotiations. And as Amber Rudd pointed out, there are the politicians to contend with: In Cabinet, everyone says yes, less immigration, but not in health, or catering, or agriculture or whatever their area is. Is Twitter ruining politics? Rafael Behr thinks things are heading that way: he told a meeting organised by Prospect that he traced the descent into a nastier, more aggressive, more vicious tone back to the Scottish independence referendum in 2014, and the advent of the cybernats, a fearsome species of whom I have some experience myself. With two general elections, two Labour leadership elections and a referendum in the four short years since, politics has only become more febrile, intensified by social media. Instead of a nutritious daily paper, people were increasingly getting their news from a bottomless Pringle tube of outrage, as Behr rather brilliantly put it, and younger people now tended to regard news sources as equally valid, whether the Financial Times or The Canary. Journalists can be distracted by irrelevancies, as with the fun they had pointlessly tracking Priti Patels flight after she was summoned back from Africa to be sacked over her unauthorised meetings in the Middle East. Even MPs can go haywire: I meet a lot of politicians and I often think, I know youre a perfectly decent human being and youre doing yourself a disservice by adopting this persona. I think another danger for everyone in politics is to forget that the great majority of British voters are not on Twitter at all, and have better things to do all day than scroll through it. As the keeper of Conservative MPs letters of no confidence in the leader if there are any Graham Brady cannot escape being asked how many he has in his possession (48 being enough to trigger a no confidence vote). People always apologise in advance and say I know you cant possibly answer, but then they ask anyway, he told a meeting hosted by the Centre for Policy Studies. After a suboptimal set of local election results in 2014 he took refuge on a parliamentary delegation to Taiwan only to be asked the same thing by the Taiwanese. Nor could you get the figure by asking MPs themselves: the difference between what colleagues say they might have done and what they have done can be considerable. Sir Graham had heard MPs saying they had sent in letters which they hadnt, or that theyve withdrawn letters they never sent in the first place. How did his meetings with the PM differ from those with her predecessor? David used to kick off his shoes and put his feet on the table. Theresa doesnt do that. Rumours abound of a private dinner here in Birmingham earlier in the week for Friends of Jacob Rees-Mogg. I assumed my own invitation had been lost in the post, but it turns out that others who are known to be close to the Moggster were also omitted from the list. Which begs the question: who are these friends, and what are they up to? Inevitably, much of the talk at the conference has been about Brexit, both on the stage, among delegates and at meetings on the fringe. That people disagree on the principles is hardly news, but it is striking how much disagreement there is between serious analysts, commentators, economists and other experts on questions of detail. On the basis of this weeks discussions, these include (but are by no means limited to) the following: Could we have harmonisation with EU and still run an independent trade policy? If customs paperwork had to be completed for good in and out of Europe, what would be the cost? Is there a potential deal that could get through parliament, whether Norway, Canada, Chequers or anything else? If MPs reject the deal, what happens in parliament after that? Is there any scope to extend the March deadline? Would the EU really be able to force Ireland to build a hard border in the event of no deal? If there were another referendum, what would be on the ballot? Would the European Court of Justice have any jurisdiction over the UK if we had a common rule book? How much of an economic shock would a no-deal Brexit be? Could the government convince the EU that it is serious about no deal and thus elicit a better offer? Would France shut down Calais in the event of no deal and an unpaid 39 billion divorce bill? Usually when planning for change there is at least one thing you can hang your hat on as a safe assumption and extrapolate from there, but its hard to think of one here. But, as my research shows, one thing most Conservative voters agree on is that whatever outcome they want, the wrong Brexit would be less bad than a government led by Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell. And thats all from Birmingham from me. With fingers crossed for Theresa Mays speech I am departing on a secret mission to an undisclosed location. I will report soon While everyone in attendance is consumed by events at the Party conference, its easy to forget the fact that most Conservatives are not here in Birmingham. In fact, its common even for a fair few Tory Members of Parliament not to attend some dont like it, or dont want the expense, or feel their time is better spent in their constituencies. Some dont attend for several years running. I gather thats the case for one relatively new (and quite senior) Minister, who found his Government role now requires him to turn up. He therefore applied for his pass in the normal way, only to find that, well, there was a problem. He wasnt going to be allowed in, because he wasnt a member of the Conservative Party. Awkward. He had to apply, somewhat abashed, to his local association to join up rather to their surprise. On investigation, it turned out that his membership had lapsed some years earlier. In the absence of automatic renewals or a need to apply for a conference pass, he and the association had simply never noticed. Technically speaking, he wouldnt have been eligible to be adopted as a Conservative candidate at last years election. Thats an unintentional error, albeit an embarrassing one, but it underscores some of the problems the Conservative Party has faced in recent years. If an MP can accidentally fall off the membership list, and become a man overboard without anyone noticing, then you can be sure the same has happened to many rank and file members. Many associations struggle to properly run renewals and the collection of membership subs. Given the justified angst about how to rebuild a mass membership, its almost unbelievable that the Party has for so long thrown members away, through a flaw that everybody knew to be an issue. Any business knows that keeping existing customers is far cheaper than attracting new ones. Which is why its undoubtedly a welcome benefit of the incoming centralised administration of membership that there will be proper support to make renewing smoother and easier (as Brandon Lewis told this site earlier in the year). Stemming such needless losses will be beneficial, but the Ministers experience points to a potential opportunity, too. We talk a lot about recruiting new members, and wooing back people who have chosen to leave the Conservative Party and rightly so but evidently there is also a potential pool of recruits in between the two, who should be the easiest of all to sign up. Potentially thousands of former members out there dont even need persuading to rejoin they already believe themselves to be current members but no longer are due to the absurdity of the old system. If they dont hear much from the Party, they might easily assume it simply isnt doing much to contact them. Perhaps some in this situation are even reading this article. The work of recruiting new members and winning back genuine ex-members still needs to be done, of course, but such non-member members are low-hanging fruit which the Party could and should snap up. Identifying them, and alerting them to their peculiar situation, would be worthwhile. More funds, re-establishing proper contact with willing activists who have accidentally become semi-detached, and, of course, a further boost to membership numbers wouldnt go amiss. Its only one small task in the Herculean labour of getting our Party back to fighting fitness readers will be all too aware of that. A year on from the Pickles review, and the ConservativeHome investigation into the 2017 General Election, the recommendations of both are yet to be fully implemented. There are various signs of positive progress, and I expect we will hear more on that front from the conference stage today, where the discussion before the Prime Ministers speech is on preparedness for 2022. The need for that progress to continue apace is as clear as it was 12 months ago. Reforming and modernising the way the Party functions, in the sense of the practical machine that makes the politics possible, is a short-term necessity but also a responsible gift to future generations an inherently conservative responsibility to take on. That applies beyond Brexit, beyond Chequers, beyond questions of personalities and leadership. Whenever the next election is whoever fights it, against whom, on whichever policies and under whatever circumstances our Party must be able to focus all its efforts on winning votes, rather than find itself still distracted by the need to wrestle with the legacy of its past disorganisation. Original review: Jan. 30, 2021 I got these at Costco Hearing Center. I don't like that online user support is lacking when I need help when the technician isn't unavailable. The technician was knowledgeable but not always available. I was told it takes a little getting used to, but I've had these for over 2 years and can't say it works all that well for me. I still have a hard time hearing people who are soft spoken or who are more than 3-5 feet away. It's the bluetooth connected ones and is synced with my phone, but adjusting it to the environment you're in is not easy. The fit isn't good, they always feel like they're going to fall out, so I'm always having to push it farther into the ear. I got them because they aren't as visible as some of the older ones, at this point I really need to be able to hear speech. I don't think I'll get these again nor recommend them. When it comes to upgrading automation systems, some of the most difficult projects are partial upgrades where some components must be replaced while others must be left in place, often for budgetary reasons. For many of these projects, extended downtime is not an option, increasing the degree of difficulty. Water and wastewater plants often are particularly susceptible to these problems because of aging control systems, limited budgets, and requirements for continuous uptime (see Figure 1). Projects involving partial upgrades require a close partnership between the end user and the system integrator throughout the project, from design to startup. Inevitably, issues with existing hardware and software, and the integration between old and new, are found after the contract is signed. Only a true partnering arrangement, where both parties are committed to each other for the long term, can allow each of these issues to be addressed with little or no impact on the project cost, schedule, and performance. The two water/wastewater projects described in this article fit that description. Each was completed successfully through a partnership between a municipality and Tesco Controls Inc., a system integrator specializing in the water/wastewater industry. Project 1: Replacing, converting, and upgrading A ground-water treatment plant was running two different Wonderware InTouch (v. 9.5) supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) applications on obsolete Microsoft Windows XP computers. Each was communicating to in-plant Square D SyMax programmable logic controllers (PLCs) over a legacy serial SyNet communication protocol and media. Several remote SyMax PLCs also were connected to the SCADA system over a serial radio link. The municipalitys ultimate goal was to replace all legacy PLCs at both in-plant and remote sites, but the project was budgeted for a phased approach, with only three PLCs initially slated for replacement. In the first phase, one in-plant PLC and two remote PLCs would be replaced with a hot-standby Schneider Modicon M580 PLC and Schneider Modicon M340 PLCs, respectively. The remaining plant and remote PLCs would be replaced in future phases. However, the municipality needed to keep the other existing in-plant and remote SyMax PLCs communicating and operating during the upgrade process (see Figure 2). The second goal was to upgrade the SCADA software and hardware to Wonderware InTouch for System Platform 2017, running on a virtualized infrastructure. This entailed migrating existing InTouch screens communicating to the nonupgraded plant and remote PLCs to the System Platform application, while developing new screens following updated end user standards. The main challenges of this project included: Migrating a critical process in an operational water treatment plant Minimizing downtime to keep the plant online and producing water Maintaining visibility and alarming at the SCADA system through the transition Minimizing the amount of plant staff needed to run the plant manually during cutovers Performing cutovers within 8-hour staff availability windows Performing a phased integration where only part of the plant would be upgraded Maintaining the legacy serial radio network communicating to remote sites Performing the migration with incomplete documentation of the existing control system, including missing details of the existing PLC software and panel wiring. These challenges required Tesco to: Determine the best approach for a legacy migration from Square D SyMax PLCs to new Schneider M580 and M340 PLCs Reverse-engineer the existing SyMax PLC code to be reprogrammed in Schneider Unity software for the new Schneider PLCs Port over legacy components until a future phase of the project Upgrade the SCADA system hardware and software. Replacing PLCs and converting protocols. Since the existing in-plant SyMax PLCs had to remain online, Tesco used a Niobrara R&D Modbus serial-to-Ethernet bridge module to bridge the existing SyNet network to the new Modbus TCP network as seamlessly as possible. This is shown in the upper part of the partial upgrade system architecture diagram in Figure 2. Bridging the new and old networks with the serial-to-Ethernet bridge module allowed the existing SyMax PLCs to establish peer-to-peer communication with the new M580 PLC while maintaining communications with the SCADA system. To facilitate the roadmap for the future project phases, Tesco coordinated with the municipality to install an additional serial-to-Ethernet bridge module at each upgraded remote site to convert the serial radio communication protocol to Modbus TCP, which was required by the upgraded remote PLCs. This was critical to keeping costs down for the current project until the district could install a new radio system in future phases. This serial-to-Ethernet bridge solution successfully maintained a high standard of reliability for the current communications infrastructure. SCADA upgrade. Since the plant could not be taken offline, the cutover process for the SCADA upgrade was planned carefully and coordinated between the contractor and the operations group, with the end users project manager taking a central role in synchronizing the different elements of the upgrade. Strong communication between these teams was paramount to the success of this project. The cutover was workshopped over several months with all involved parties into a three-part process. Part one of the cutover involved all equipment out of service, so that the running process would not be interrupted. This also allowed the integration team to check its cutover plan against the reality of challenges that could develop in the field, such as wiring not being landed where indicated on as-built project drawings, and wiring not connected to field assets outside of the panels being modified. It was a necessary safeguard that allowed the team to test the approach. The success of this part of the cutover familiarized the team with the reality of the field conditions. Part two of the cutover involved equipment in service but in a standby state. If a piece of equipment was in use and encountered unexpected downtime, the cutover standby equipment could be brought into immediate use. At this juncture, communication between the old SyNet network and the new Modbus TCP network became necessary because of the requirement of peer-to-peer communication between legacy and new PLCs. Additionally, the new SCADA system was communicating with the new in-plant PLC and tested against all field inputs and outputs. Part three of the cutover involved the remaining in-service and live equipment. With parts one and two successfully completed, the project teams were familiar with and confident in the cutover approach. Operations first changed the plant over to use redundant equipment, made ready in part two of the cutover, where applicable. The system being cutover was divided into two trains (Train 1 and Train 2), only one of which was in service at a given time. This allowed the team to place one train in service, then cut over the train not in use. The newly upgraded train was then placed in service, and the remaining train was cut over, completing the SCADA upgrade. The new Wonderware System Platform 2017 software was installed on an HP Server PC running Microsoft/Hyper-V Failover High-Availability Clusters with off-premises cluster redundancy connected by a wide area network (WAN). All the Wonderware System Platform virtual machines (VMs) were hosted within this cluster. The SCADA system now includes an operator interface that allows monitoring and control of plant and remote assets with reporting, trending, alarm generation, event recording, and other features. All of these features are delivered to desktop through Microsoft Remote Desktop Services. Project 1 results. The purpose of this project was to upgrade plant operations by improving PLC maintainability and SCADA robustness, while keeping the existing plant operations intact. The former SCADA system relied on long-outdated technology. Additionally, the old computers were equipped with SyNet proprietary daughter cards that plugged directly into the SyNet network via the Windows XP computer motherboard. Through this project, these outdated and unsupported physical-world liabilities were replaced with a new, virtualized SCADA system, subject to backups of all virtual machines as simple data that can be copied off to a storage device. This significantly improved the end users disaster recovery capability. The obsolete Windows XP computers were replaced with Microsoft Hyper-V cluster-based Microsoft 2016 Datacenter Edition virtual images. With a SCADA system that is modern and up-to-date, the end user can stop worrying about where to procure the parts to support a generation of obsolete operating systems and control software. There is an expected future cost savings in operator and maintenance outlays as the new architecture alleviates the end users focus from maintaining their tools to producing and delivering high quality water to their consumers. Project 2: PLC consolidation and SCADA software upgrade In this municipal wastewater treatment plant, a SCADA system using Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk View SE (v. 7.0) communicated with more than 15 Allen-Bradley PLC-5s used for process control. Several other PLCs, primarily Allen-Bradley MicroLogix models, were used for additional control. The SCADA system communicated to a ControlLogix gateway via EtherNet/IP, and this gateway converted the protocol to DH+ to communicate with the PLC-5 network. The end user wanted to combine all of these existing PLCs into three hot-standby pairs of Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs, each operating remote input/output (RIO) devices that communicated over the plants fiberoptic EtherNet/IP network. As each of the remaining PLCs was converted to become RIO, the associated process control logic needed to be migrated to one of the three ControlLogix masters. Also required was a SCADA update to FactoryTalk View SE (v. 8.1) and the removal of the existing ControlLogix gateway, which was no longer needed because the DH+ network was eliminated with the retirement of the PLC-5s. The main challenges of this project included: Consolidating existing PLC peer-to-peer communications into three new ControlLogix master PLCs Maintaining active communications on both the EtherNet/IP and the DH+ networks during the migration Maintaining setpoints and statistical data when updating each PLC Reusing existing analog signal line filters from PLC to equipment Automating the SCADA database conversion from PLC-5 tags to ControlLogix tags Reusing the existing PLC-5 16-bit structure to the greatest extent possible while properly migrating it into ControlLogix syntax and 32-bit structure Keeping downtime to a maximum of six hours for any process area, which required short cutover windows to maintain plant operations Assisting the end user with contingency plan development for manual plant operations during PLC cutovers. PLC consolidation. Tesco leveraged Rockwell Automation conversion products and tools to migrate both the Allen-Bradley hardware and Rockwell Software (see Figure 3). Designing with the hardware retrofit kit allowed Tesco to maintain the original PLC-5 I/O terminations, and to couple these terminations with harnesses to the new ControlLogix hardware. Using the software conversion tool enabled Tesco to substantially maintain the existing PLC-5 coding style in ControlLogix, but with some code revisions required per Rockwell Automation recommendations: Analog scaling had to be confirmed for every point, as I/O card handling changed significantly between PLC generations. PLC-5 systems used specific block transfer reads and writes (BTRs and BTWs) to access the data, while ControlLogix systems presented the data through the I/O tree, but often required additional moves or scaling instructions to be applied to replicate the original program. Communication and message blocks between PLC-5s used DH+, and these blocks between PLC-5s and ControlLogix, used an EtherNet/IP to DH+ gateway. Every instance required particular attention to accommodate the new architecture. Proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control had slight differences between PLC generations, particularly with regard to input and output scaling. The migration was performed by maintaining existing registers and SCADA tags for compatibility with the original logic and SCADA systems, but converting the values as necessary for appropriate operation with the ControlLogix PID block and structure. PLC-5 timers had different time scales than ControlLogix, which use milliseconds exclusively. Therefore, the new ControlLogix code and SCADA application needed to be configured to accommodate the time scales. To minimize downtime, a hot onsite cutover was required. Tesco performed the migration of code following these steps in sequence, for each original PLC: Upload the live existing PLC-5 program to get current setpoint values. Convert the uploaded PLC-5 program to ControlLogix using the conversion tool. Download the resultant ControlLogix program to an intermediate ControlLogix PLC. Use the conversion tool to handle current setpoint values and transfer them into the intermediate PLC. Transfer the resultant program from the intermediate ControlLogix PLC to the proper master ControlLogix PLC, ensuring there are no conflicts. SCADA upgrade. Tesco leveraged tools to convert existing PLC-5 tags and replicate them to ControlLogix tags. To speed this process and eliminate any errors arising from manual conversion, Tesco developed a software tool to automate tag conversion. Taking one process area at a time, a new tag set was uploaded to the existing SCADA system for testing. Project 2 results. Through good documentation practices, appropriate contingency plans, and a thorough understanding of the plants operational characteristics and the end users goals, Tesco was able to perform a relatively seamless hot cutover of the PLCs. Tesco was able to cutover one PLC per day, with approximately 20 minutes spent for the physical hot cutover, and the remainder of the day was used for testing and verification. Key takeaways Greenfield automation projects can be designed upfront with a great deal of certainty. The same is true to a lesser extent with rip-and-replace projects where the entire automation system is upgraded, sometimes with significant outage time, often only leaving the field wiring and instrumentation in place. This is not the case with projects requiring incremental, partial upgrades to an automation system and demanding minimal-outage cutovers. These types of projects invariably have unforeseen issues arising throughout the execution stage, long after the contract has been signed. Inexperienced system integrators may underestimate the full scope and complexity of these types of projects. This can lead to numerous change orders and delay requests as issues arise during project execution. End users with complex upgrade projects should instead seek an experienced and informed system integrator with a history of developing and maintaining long term relationships with their clients. This will allow these types of projects to be executed on time and at budget, while meeting or exceeding all performance requirements. Stephen Goldsworth is the systems engineering group manager at Tesco Controls Inc. He leads the team responsible for performing end user system assessments and designing efficient, user-friendly automation systems. He has a thorough understanding of unique processes and a broad perspective on many technologies and systems used in process automation. Raju Nair is PLC programming manager at Tesco. He establishes the technical process requirements for the companys projects and performance teams. He has coordinated multiple complex projects for water/wastewater and renewable energy, including one of the largest EPA clean-ups in the U.S. He possesses a solid understanding of PLC programming best practices, and has led the company in the standardization and templating of PLC coding. Jonathon Shores, a member of Tescos Systems Engineering Group, applies more than two decades of experience as a SCADA developer and systems analyst to design and implement practical, user-friendly systems for water/wastewater agencies. His experience includes designing process control interfaces, system communication topologies, and databases. He also has developed database mining techniques. This article appears in the Applied Automation supplement for Control Engineering and Plant Engineering. See other articles from the supplement below. Here is a recent Daily Record column. My past Daily Record articles can be accessed here. ***** Juror misconduct and technology: a perfect storm As I mentioned in recent columns, Im in the process of drafting my half of the annual update to Criminal Law in New York, a substantive criminal law treatise that I co-author with Brighton Town Court Judge Karen Morris. Every year, during the course of my research, I often stumble upon cases that offer an interesting perspective on the intersection of law and technology. This year was no different, and one particularly timely issue that I encountered involved juror misconduct occurring due to the improper use of technology by jurors. Oftentimes these types of cases are discussed in the context of jurors using social media platforms to discuss trial proceedings despite being instructed not to do so, but the two cases that caught my eye while researching cases this summer involved jurors improperly using other types of technology in ways that were alleged to have had an impact on criminal trials. In this column Ill discuss the first case, People v. Neulander, 162 A.D.3d 1763 (4th Dept 2018), where the defendant was convicted of murder in the second degree. One issue on appeal was whether a number of text messages sent by a juror during the trial to friends and family constituted juror misconduct that created a significant risk that a substantial right of defendant was prejudiced. Specifically, as established during the hearing on the defendants motion to set aside the verdict, the juror in question sent the following text messages to her father and her friends during the trial: (A) text message from her father that stated: Make sure he's guilty! During the trial, juror number 12 received a text message from a friend asking if she had seen the scary person yet. Juror number 12 responded: I've seen him since day 1. Juror number 12 admitted at the subsequent hearing into her misconduct that she knew that the moniker scary person was a reference to defendant. Another friend sent juror number 12 a text message during the trial that stated: I'm so anxious to hear someone testify against Jenna [defendant's daughter]. Juror number 12 responded: No one will testify against her! The prosecution has already given all of his witnesses, we are on the defense side now! The prosecutor can cross examine her once she is done testifying for the defense. Later that night, the same friend replied via text message: My mind is blown that the daughter [Jenna] isn't a suspect. This conduct was reported to the court by an alternate juror after the guilty verdict had been rendered. In the jurors affidavit in opposition to the motion to set aside the verdict, the juror stated that she had followed all of the courts instructions. Nevertheless, a subsequent forensic examination of her cell phone showed that she had deleted many messages and erased her web browsing history, and she was unable to provide any explanations for doing so. Based on the evidence adduced at the hearing, the court granted the defendants motion for a new trial, concluding that due to juror number 12's flagrant failure to follow the court's instructions and her concealment of that substantial misconduct, defendant, through no fault of his own, was denied the opportunity to seek her discharge during trial on the ground that she was grossly unqualified and/or had engaged in substantial misconductthus(the) defendant established by a preponderance of the evidence that juror number 12 engaged in substantial misconduct that created a significant risk that a substantial right of ... defendant was prejudiced. This case is a great example of the reality that even tools as familiar and simple as texting can have a significant impact on trials. So dont make the mistake of discounting or overlooking the potential effect of old school technology on your clients case. In next weeks column, Ill discuss a juror misconduct case whereby jurors conducted legal research on their home computers and also used video editing software to enhance images from a video in evidence. So make sure to tune in next week! Nicole Black is a Rochester, New York attorney, author, journalist, and the Legal Technology Evangelist at MyCase law practice management software. She is the author of the ABA book Cloud Computing for Lawyers, co-authors the ABA book Social Media for Lawyers: the Next Frontier, and co-authors Criminal Law in New York, a Thomson Reuters treatise. She writes legal technology columns for Above the Law and ABA Journal and speaks regularly at conferences regarding the intersection of law and technology. You can follow her on Twitter at @nikiblack or email her at niki.black@mycase.com. This site is not available in your country CORNWALL, Ontario For those looking for a new career, there was plenty to choose from at the fourth annual Cornwall and Area Job Fair. There were 40 different employers, and 17 service providers offering around 400 jobs and there were many local residents at the show eager to apply for them. The job fair opened at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 3, but according to Social Development Council (SDC) Executive Director and event organizer Carilyne Hebert people were lined up since 9 a.m. The Employability Network of the SDC is a big part of putting this event together, said Hebert. She explained that the network meets monthly to address issues surrounding employment in Cornwall and the surrounding area. This years job fair had nearly twice as many employers attend as previous years. Hebert said that probably nearly 400 people had gone through the job fair by the end of the morning and hoped to see at least 1,000 by the end of the day. Some of the employers present at the fair included the Canadian Coast Guard, Sigma Point, who are looking to fill 10 jobs in Cornwall, Walmart Logistics who are looking to fill 150 warehouse and leadership positions in Cornwall and Leclerc. Leclerc, a cooking company who recently announced that they are brining a new production facility to Cornwall, were by far the busiest booth on Wednesday morning, with three lines from their table, to the back of the room. Photo: Erin Schaff/Getty Images Liberals do not want Brett Kavanaugh on the Supreme Court because they believe that his jurisprudence poses a threat to consumers, workers, womens bodily autonomy, voting rights, the independence of federal law enforcement, the governments capacity to regulate private industry, and various other constituencies and issues that they care about. Liberals also believe that, as a general rule, Supreme Court justices should not be unrepentant sex offenders, perjurers, or vengeful partisans. By contrast, the people who have the power to make or break Brett Kavanaughs nomination like his approach to Constitutional law. Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and Jeff Flake are perfectly fine with Kavanaughs jurisprudence. But they have evinced some concerns about his character. For this reason, in recent days, Democrats have focused their case against Kavanaugh on two related character issues: Multiple women have accused him of sexual assault, including one who did so in sworn testimony that struck some Senate Republicans as credible. When Kavanaugh appeared before the Senate to respond to those allegations, he delivered an angry partisan tirade, treated several Democratic senators with abject contempt, and was evasive in response to direct questioning. He also (ostensibly) told many, many lies while under a sworn oath. The FBI is currently investigating the allegations leveled by Christine Blasey Ford and Deborah Ramirez. But since it is inherently more difficult to establish that Kavanaugh committed sexual assault three decades ago than to prove that he comported himself as a dishonest, intemperate partisan last week, Democrats are beginning to focus their fire on the latter point. The issues of credibility and temperament are not something that happened 30 years ago; theyre about Judge Kavanaugh today and how he is as a 53-year-old, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer told the New York Times Monday. I think there are serious questions about both his credibility and his temperament that may, to some senators, be more important than the activities that occurred in high school. One day later, during an appearance at The Atlantic Festival, Senator Flake said that he didnt like some of the more partisan references and the tone, particularly with some of my colleagues We cant have that on the Court. Flake did not mean to suggest that Kavanaughs conduct last week rendered him irrevocably unfit for the court. But Democrats should do their best to convince him (and Collins and Murkowski) that it did. To say that Kavanaughs partisan rage was disqualifying would not be to move the goalposts. It is true that liberals would oppose Kavanaughs confirmation even if he hadnt been accused of sexual assault, or lied to the Senate, or identified himself as the victim of a pro-Clinton conspiracy. But it is also true that Kavanaughs behavior last Thursday was disqualifying by long-honored and well-founded norms of judicial conduct. For the sake of argument, lets assume that Kavanaugh has never sexually assaulted anyone in his life and that he did not (definitely, clearly, unambiguously) lie under oath in any of his testimony before the Senate. Even if we make these stipulations, Kavanaugh still disqualified himself last Thursday. Conservatives dont deny that Kavanaugh vented partisan rage at last weeks hearing. Rather, they insist that this norm-defying conduct was acceptable for two reasons: Kavanaughs anger was justified in human terms, and he had no means of credibly defending himself without attacking those who set out to destroy him. Here is how The National Reviews Charles C. Cooke renders the case: [Kavnaugh] simply could not defend himself without making specific criticisms about how he had been treated; about who had said what, and when; and, yes, about how certain people in the room with him had behaved. To argue he should have refrained from specifics is to say, effectively, he shouldnt have competently defended himself. Kavanaugh had only one option today, and that was to do what he did. It would be utterly bizarre if our standard was, if someone accuses you, and the minority party helps, and you defend yourself from both, you have therefore rendered yourself unsuitable for the position that the accusation is intended to deny you. Put simply, if Kavanaugh he believes he is innocent and he does there is no other proper way for him to act. What he did today is what I would have done if someone accused me of being a gang rapist and a lecher and a teenage sexual deviant. If Kavanaugh did not do what Christine Blasey Ford and Deborah Ramirez claim, then he has suffered a grievous wrong. A letter containing a defamatory allegation was leaked to the press and for ten days, he was denied the opportunity to formally defend himself before the Senate. In the interim, national newspapers combed through his every youthful indiscretion. His reputation was damaged, and unless he can somehow find a way to prove a negative, much of that damage will be irrevocable. His teaching career has been imperiled; his family has been made subject to violent threats. Given all this, it is perfectly understandable that Kavanaughs testimony was inflected with indignation. But it was neither understandable nor remotely necessary for the purposes of a competent defense for Kavanaugh to say the following in his opening statement to the Senate: Since my nomination in July, theres been a frenzy on the left to come up with something, anything to block my confirmationYou sowed the wind for decades to come. I fear that the whole country will reap the whirlwinds. The behavior of several of the Democratic members of this committee at my hearing a few weeks ago was an embarrassment. But at least it was just a good old-fashioned attempt at Borking. Those efforts didnt work. When I did at least okay enough at the hearings that it looks like I might actually get confirmed, a new tactic was needed. Some of you were lying in wait and had it ready. This first allegation was held in secret for weeks by a Democratic member of this committee and by staff. It would be needed only if you couldnt take me out on the merits. When it was needed, this allegation was unleashed and publicly deployed over Dr. Fords wishes. This whole two-week effort has been a calculated and orchestrated political hit, fueled with apparent pent-up anger about President Trump and the 2016 election, fear that has been unfairly stoked about my judicial record, revenge on behalf of the Clintons and millions of dollars in money from outside left-wing opposition groups. This is a circus. The consequences will extend long past my nomination. The consequences will be with us for decades. This grotesque and coordinated character assassination will dissuade confident and good people of all political persuasions from serving our country. And as we all know in the United States political system of the early 2000s, what goes around comes around. There are two primary problems with this argument: 1) By accusing Democrats of Borking, Kavanaugh endorsed the conservative movements deeply tendentious narrative of Robert Borks failed bid to become a Supreme Court justice. In 1987, Ronald Reagan nominated Bork to the Supreme Court. Senators proceeded to scrutinize the judges legal writings and found that, at various points in his career, Bork had argued that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was based in a principle of unsurpassed ugliness; that the First Amendment did not protect scientific or literary speech; that companies could legally require their employees to undergo sterilization to keep their jobs; and that poll taxes were constitutional. As the party tasked with providing political representation to liberals, labor, and African-Americans, the Democrats were understandably concerned by all of this! Therefore, they made a political issue of Borks jurisprudence at his confirmation hearings. And since Bork didnt bother to do much preparation for said hearings, his performance proved fatally damaging to his nomination. Ever since, Republicans have promoted the idea that Democrats treated Bork unfairly; that it was fundamentally wrong to scrutinize the practical implications of a qualified judicial nominees legal theory. But no Republican actually believes this. Which is to say, no GOP lawmaker thinks that it is illegitimate to reject a nominee to the judiciary on ideological grounds; if they did, Merrick Garland would be on the Supreme Court. It is absurd to suggest that Kavanaugh had no choice but to echo the conservative movements propagandistic account of Borks confirmation process last Thursday. He did so either as a means of appealing to the GOP base, or else, because he unthinkingly accepts the conservative movements propaganda as reality. Either of those scenarios undermines the notion that Kavanaugh is capable of serving as a neutral and impartial arbiter who favors no litigant or policy (which is Kavanaughs own definition of what it means to be a good judge). 2) Kavanaughs jeremiad against the evil of unsubstantiated allegations was full of unsubstantiated allegations. The judge had no basis for asserting that he was the victim of calculated and orchestrated political hit. More concretely, he had no cause for claiming that the committees Democrats had always planned to leak Fords letter to the press as a contingency if merely Borking him proved insufficient. It is reasonable to assume that someone affiliated with Ford or the Senate Democrats leaked the letter. But the identity of that individual remains unknown, and there is no basis for assuming that said individual acted on behalf of others, let alone on behalf of a vast left-wing conspiracy. Meanwhile, Dianne Feinstein insists that she declined to share the letter with the committee initially because she felt compelled to honor Fords request for confidentiality, a request that Ford only suspended after her letter became public. Kavanaugh might not trust this narrative. But he offered no evidence to refute it. Instead, he merely asserted that Senate Democrats had collectively conspired to ruin his life for ideological gain, and felt no need whatsoever to substantiate his allegation. Whats more, by the time Kavanaugh came before the committee, Christine Blasey Ford had testified, under penalty of perjury, that he had sexually assaulted her in a manner that had caused her to fear for her life. She had then subjected herself to cross-examination by a professional prosecutor after which, Senate Majority Whip John Cornyn said that he had found no reason to dismiss her testimony as not credible. If Kavanaugh is innocent (and telling the truth about having never blacked out from drinking), then he knows for a fact that Fords allegation is false. But what basis did he have for assuming that Senate Democrats knew the same? And if the committees Democrats did not possess his unique insight into the truth of her allegations, how was he justified in declaring the hearing a circus? Given that a woman had accused him of a serious crime in sworn testimony that even John Cornyn found plausible how was Kavanaugh justified in asserting that Senate Democrats had only demanded Thursdays hearing out of ideological spite, rather than out of a genuine concern about the grave allegation leveled against him? What justification did he have for treating the hearings very existence with contempt? Ostensibly, one reason why jurists arent supposed to be rabid partisans is that a strong identification with one party or ideological movement could impair a judges ability to treat arguments from all claimants with intellectual generosity, and preside impartially over their disputes. On Thursday, Kavanaugh demonstrated no such ability. Cookes op-ed offers no answer to these objections. Rather, he merely asserts that Kavanaugh had only one option and that was to do what he did. There was simply no way for Kavanaugh to competently defend himself, without casting unsubstantiated aspersions about Senate Democrats integrity. But Cooke never actually tries to justify this claim. And its hard to imagine how he would. Kavanaughs innocence is not contingent on Senate Democrats bad faith. In fact, the purity of Dianne Feinsteins heart is completely immaterial to the question of Kavanaughs guilt or innocence; she could be Machiavelli reborn, and Ford could still be telling the truth. If anything, Kavanaughs compulsion to contest the legitimacy of the hearing and assail the motivations of anyone who saw Fords allegations as meriting a formal inquiry undermined the competency of his defense by damaging his own credibility. Kavanaugh could have exhibited grace under fire. He could have acknowledged that it was reasonable that a majority of U.S. senators expected him to formally respond to an allegation of sexual assault, made under oath, before approving his lifetime appointment to the nations most powerful court. He could have put himself in the shoes of Americans who werent inclined to believe him of ordinary Democratic voters, and sexual-assault survivors watching from home and evinced sympathy for their concerns. He could have signaled that he felt an obligation to assure them that their country wasnt about to put a sex criminal on its highest court. None of this would have been incompatible with insisting upon his innocence, or detailing the various ways Fords allegation hadnt been corroborated, or appealing to his audiences sympathies by referencing the terrible ordeal that he had been through. All of it would have made his defense more compelling to blue America. Or, failing that, Kavanaugh could have simply given the exact same statement that he did, except without all the paragraphs about the Democrats perfidy. (Really, the statement holds together perfectly fine with all that material excised.) Kavanaugh had plenty of options. He freely chose to launch a tendentious, partisan diatribe that violated his own avowed standards for proper judicial conduct. And the result was not a competent defense, but an indictment of his fitness for a judgeship of any kind. Michigans Gretchen Whitmer is one of six midwestern Democratic candidates who could take away Republican gubernatorial seats in November. Photo: Bill Pugliano/Getty Images For all kinds of good and obvious reasons, the political world is focused on congressional races in this midterm election, as Democrats fight to restrict Donald Trumps power and break up a Republican trifecta in Washington. But state elections matter, too. And in the very Rust Belt areas that gave Trump his crucial Electoral Vote margin in 2016, Democrats are poised to make major gains in gubernatorial races, reversing a red wave that captured statehouses across the region in 2010 and 2014. As Reid Wilson notes, the turnaround is dramatic: Trump won Michigan and Wisconsin in 2016, two of the blue wall states that had voted Democratic in every presidential election since 1992. He cruised to victory in Iowa and Ohio, swing states Barack Obama won twice. And he came within 45,000 votes of winning Minnesota, a state that last voted Republican when Richard Nixon was on the ballot. His wins added to a rightward drift that has happened in the Midwest in recent years. Republicans control both chambers of the state legislature in all five of those states, and the party owns most of the U.S. House seats in Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana and Ohio. [F]ive weeks before Election Day, public polls show Democrats surging in races up and down the ballot in those Midwestern states, and even in less competitive states like conservative Kansas and liberal Illinois. Democrats could pick up six net governorships in the Midwest in November. They are strongly favored in Michigan, where outgoing two-term Republican governorRick Snyder is very unpopular, and Democratic former state legislative leader Gretchen Whitmer has maintained about a ten-point lead over Attorney General Bill Schuette. They have an even bigger lead in Illinois, where Democrat J.B. Pritzker is outspending the deep-pocketed Republican incumbent Bruce Rauner. In Wisconsin, the steady survivor of many challenges Scott Walker may have finally run out of luck; hes trailing Democrat Tony Evers by a steadily growing margin. And Democrats have been recently pulling even with initially favored Republicans in Ohio (where Richard Cordray has caught and maybe passed Mike DeWine in recent polling), Iowa (self-financed Fred Hubbell now leads steadily fading incumbent Kim Reynolds), and even Kansas (Democratic legislator Laura Kelly is dead even with Kris Kobach as a divided Republican Party splinters even further). In Minnesota, Republican hopes of reclaiming the governorship declined when former Governor Tim Pawlenty lost his primary; his vanquisher, Jeff Johnson, is now well behind Democrat Tim Walz. As Wilson observed, these gubernatorial races anchor tickets in states with a lot of other high-profile races going on. Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin all rank high on lists of battlegrounds where control of state legislatures (and future redistricting) are on the table. There are significant Senate races in Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. And there are competitive House races in nearly every midwestern state, including (according to the Cook Political Report) two in Iowa; four in Illinois; two in Kansas; two in Michigan; four in Minnesota; one in Missouri; two in Ohio; and one in Wisconsin. Looking forward, trends in these heartland states could also tell us a lot about the shape of the 2020 presidential contest. Aside from Michigan and Wisconsin, where Trump famously won by an eyelash in 2016, he won large victories in Ohio (by eight points) and Iowa (nearly ten points). If those states are turning against Trumps party so quickly, his path to reelection could be treacherous indeed. After being contacted by Salted Hash about a possible data breach, Gwinnett Medical Center(GMC), a not-for-profit network of healthcare providers in Gwinnett County, Georgia, has confirmed they're investigating what they're calling an IT incident. Salted Hash first became aware of a possible data breach at GMC late last week, but the exact details surrounding the incident were not immediately available. What we learned was that on Saturday (Sept. 29), IT staff at GMC Lawrenceville became aware of an incident involving several hundred patient records at the least. Immediately following the discovery, the alleged attackers sent threats. Sometime later, an agent from the local FBI field office arrived and offered to assist, but it isn't clear if the FBI knew something was wrong, or if the law enforcement agency was called in after the threats were made. The chaotic weekend pushed forward, until early Tuesday morning, when alleged GMC patient data started to appear online. The posted patient details included full name, date of birth, the alleged patient's sex, and claims the healthcare provider was attempting to coverup the incident. When reached for comment, Beth Hardy, a spokesperson for GMC, said there was no data breach, and instead stated the not-for-profit was investigating an IT incident that became apparent last week. In a prepared statement, GMC said day to day operations haven't been impacted by this incident, and that external partners have been called in to assist. One of those partners is PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). When pressed for details, Salted Hash was told the investigation is ongoing, and GMC is still "trying to determine the specifics of this case." "GMC takes cyber security very seriously and we are committed to maintaining the integrity, availability and confidentiality of our systems and data. That starts with identifying threats and conducting audits and it includes the processes, procedures and safeguards that we have in place to protect our systems," the healthcare provider's statement concluded. Calls seeking comment from the FBI field office in Atlanta were not answered. This is an ongoing, developing story. Salted Hash will be updating this article as new information becomes available. Update: Shortly after this article was published, a source familiar with attacks in the medical space contacted Salted Hash with some interesting observations, considering that attempts were made online to shame GMC for the incident. This all could be the work of Particle Matrix, given the threat actor's nature of taunting and extortion demands against victims. Originally, the group started off using open RDP and other means to deliver homegrown ransomware payloads to medical victims, but they abandoned those efforts last year. These days, the group mostly sticks to extortion. Online, the attackers claimed they reached out to GMC's Chief Financial Officer, Tommy McBride, but he "rejected our help." Another odd aspect to the taunting messages online are the affiliate links. The person(s) posting messages containing alleged GMC patient data are promoting a Lifelock affiliate link and encouraging GMC patients to register for identity theft protection. Until more information is released however, it's impossible to determine what group if any are responsible for the incident at GMC. Update 2: On Wednesday, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that the FBI was investigating the hacking incident at Gwinnett Medical Center, quoting a spokesperson with the FBI as confirming they were "aware of the breach" and working with appropriate entities. In an email seen by Salted Hash, the FBI confirmed their investigation, and noted that because it was an "ongoing investigation, we have no further comment." However, late Wednesday afternoon, the person(s) responsible for the Twitter account sharing alleged compromised patient data from GMC released more information. In a post referencing an article on Databreaches.net, the hackers shared video captures from an AXIS IP camera, including an image of a patient in their bed. The date these images were taken is unknown. The account also contacted Salted Hash and shared additional details including information taken from an Opti Medical blood and gas analyzer. "[The] patient ID in the [Opti Medical] database is most helpful," the alleged attacker(s) stated, adding that the IDs were like a Rosetta Stone for patient records. As proof, they shared a sample record with Salted Hash so that we could confirm it with GMC. When we attempted to contact GMC for comment related to this new information, calls were not answered and went directly to voicemail. But the most damning comment from the person(s) behind the Twitter account centered on the current breach investigation. The person(s) speaking took issue with comments made by Beth Hardy, a spokesperson for GMC, and accused the hospital of lying to the public. In their own words, without edits or modifications, this is what they had to say: "ask beth how their sscom wireless handsets are working. Does GMC have control of this system. the answer is no. the last time we checked we own their ascom system and their data. tell beth the allworx phones kept us one step ahead of them. we know everything that happens" The fact the attackers may will still be in the system and watching what the incident response teams are up to is alarming. But Salted Hash has no way to conclusively prove this, as we're not privy to the GMC network. Another problematic fact is that the attackers were able to access a medical device, and it is unknown what if any data was altered on it. While this reporter freely admits he doesn't fully understand how a blood and gas analyzer works, I'm positive that altering results or records could be quite serious if the changes were missed somehow. When asked about how they got in to the systems, the person(s) on Twitter said that the default password was used "on most things, that was the first mistake." The person(s) speaking on Twitter said the data shared was new, but dates were redacted from the screenshots posted, including a phone log form the AllWorx system, a Unite Connectivity Manager configuration menu. BRIDGEPORT With the city coastline growing pencil thin behind them, Curiale School eighth-graders remained silent as the captain aboard the tall ship barked orders to his crew. Not until the all-clear sign was given were the 24 students allowed to resume their excited chatter about whether a large rock in the distant waves was a whale, what the smell was coming from below deck and what life must have been like nearly two centuries ago aboard a very similar vessel, the Spanish schooner called the Amistad. It was important for Africans to know where they are coming from and where they are to chart their course for the future, Adwoa Bandele-Astante, an educator, told students huddled around her station aboard the 127-foot long schooner. A nonprofit educational organization that offers year-round programming up and down the East Coast, Discovering Amistad of New Haven invited two groups of Curiale School upperclassmen to spend the day aboard the vessel that has spent the past two weeks at Captains Cove. Completed in 2000, the boat is a replica of the vessel aboard which a slave rebellion occurred in 1839. The boat was carrying 53 Mende slaves from Havana, Cuba, to their purchasers' plantations when the African captives gained control of the ship and tried to make their way back to Sierra Leone. Instead, the ship was captured and towed to New London Harbor. Their plight ended up in the courts, eventually winding up in the U.S. Supreme Court, which ordered the slaves freed. The modern Amistad exists solely to tell that story, Rose Witte of Redding, the first mate aboard the boat, said. Telling the story of the struggle for freedom. A story that is still relevant to this day. Eighth-grade Curiale teachers Jaime Rodrigues and Bill Bunin said being on the boat gives students who are starting to learn the story a chance to experience it from a different perspective. Their students agreed. Easing backward down the ladder that led to a lower deck, Vincent Penzerro, 14, said he wanted to know how everything worked. I didnt know it was going to be this interesting, Penzerro said. Sharmin Akther, 12, liked going down below, too, but also pulling the ropes with classmates who formed lines on either side of the vessel, working together to raise the sails and drop the line. I learned its pretty difficult to sail, classmate Robert McDougall, 13, chimed in. For Francisco Nadarret, 13, and most of the rest, it was their first time on a boat, at least of this kind. An hour into the trip, most had shed their jackets and had them tied around their waists. They learned the replica is larger than the original Amistad, has an engine and a steering wheel, six waterproof compartments and flooring below the main deck. There are also 22 bunks, enough to take high school students on two-week summer trips. Down below used to be just a pile of stuff, like a floating general store, Jason Hine, who has worked on the Amistad for three years, said of the cargo hull. How do you not vomit down here, Deivy Franco, 13, asked when it was time for questions. Even sailors get sea sick when the waves are rough, Hine told him, adding that going back on deck where one can look at where the land meets water often helps. Back at Bandele-Asantes station, she let students touch artifacts like drums, walking sticks and a hollowed-out calabash. Drums, the students were told, werent allowed in the Colonial environment. One, because they could provide a means for slaves to communicate and two, it was a connection to a past where the people were strong, confident and intelligent. It was an ordered society, she said, explaining that the word diaspora meant to spread out and that the African diaspora is a vibrant one. This weekend, the ship sails to New Haven. It will winter in Mystic. Discovering Amistad educators will return to Curiale to do a follow up presentation in the near future. WASHINGTON With the Supreme Court confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh hurdling toward an uncertain conclusion, Senate Republican and Democratic leaders exchanged salvos on who is to blame for delay while the FBI investigates charges of sexual abuse leveled at the 53-year-old federal appeals court judge. Theres been no real delay, said Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee that held confirmation hearings for Kavanaugh and heard testimony last week from him and his accuser, Christine Blasey Ford. We should take whatever time is necessary for this important Supreme Court seat. We ought to be approaching this decision with consummate care and caution. Blumenthal accused President Donald Trump and Senate Majority Leader Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., of trying to hurry the nomination along so the Supreme Court would have its full complement of justices on its opening day Monday. Blumenthal said he walked by the Supreme Court opposite the U.S. Capitol on his way to work Tuesday. As far as I can tell, those marble pillars are still there, he said with a laugh. But even though it was a Republican member of Judiciary, Sen. Jeff Flake of Arizona, who forced a week-long delay in Kavanaughs confirmation vote for the FBI to investigate the abuse charges, McConnell saw Democratic fingerprints all over the confirmation battles rocky culmination. If you stop and listen, you can practically hear the Democrats trying to move the goalposts on Judge Kavanaughs nomination to the Supreme Court, McConnell said Tuesday. He accused Democrats of seizing on the accusation of Christine Blasey Ford that Kavanaugh groped her and held his hand over her mouth at a high school gathering after previous attempts to derail the nomination failed. The floodgates of mud and muck opened entirely on Brett Kavanaugh and his family, McConnell said. Out of the woodwork came one uncorroborated allegation after another, each seemingly more outlandish than the last. Meanwhile, the FBI continued its investigation of not only Fords claim but that of Deborah Ramirez, the Shelton native who said Kavanaugh exposed himself to her while both were Yale undergraduates. And a swirl of new witnesses and accusations continue to surface, including one in which Kavanaugh is said to have thrown ice at another patron in a fight at the now-closed Demerys bar in New Haven. In response to Democratic charges that Republicans wanted a cursory and inconclusive investigation, Trump said Monday he had called for a thorough FBI probe that is within the bounds of what the Senate wants. We dont want to go on a witch hunt, he added. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y, on Monday complained of McConnells gall in criticizing confirmation delays when the Republican leader held up President Obamas nomination for 10 months in 2016 so that the new president a Republican, it turned out could choose the nominee. Its staggering, just staggering, he said. He ought to look in the mirror. McConnell promised a Senate vote on confirmation this week, which he would only call if he is assured virtually all Republicans would vote for confirmation. But that result is far from guaranteed. Moderate Republican Sens. Flake, Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and perhaps others may shape up as no votes if they view the FBI investigation as cut off prematurely. A developing part of Democratic strategy appears to be a new emphasis on misstatements Kavanaugh may have made to the Senate Judiciary Committee under oath rather than the allegations of sexual abuse that are decades old and allegedly occurred when Kavanaugh was in high school and college. Untruthful statements to the Judiciary Committee would be disqualifying and perhaps more readily provable because they are more recent, said Blumenthal, who announced opposition to Kavanaughs confirmation virtually from the moment Trump nominated him on July 9. But in no way would I accept diminishing (the) value of Fords testimony or its value as a teaching moment on sexual assault. Among the possible misstatements under oath Blumenthal and other Democrats point to are an NBC News report that undermined Kavanaughs sworn testimony last week that he first learned of the Ramirez allegation when the New Yorker published a story Sept. 23. In fact, text messages involving another Yale classmate, Kerry Berchem of Fairfield, suggest he knew of them weeks earlier. Berchem is a law partner at the Akin, Gump firm in New York City, as well as a Democratic member of Fairfields Representative Town Meeting from District 8. Berchem told NBC she was attempting to get the messages to the FBI. Other potential conflicts include the extent of Kavanaughs drinking. Kavanaugh said at the hearing last week, I like beer. While some in his circle occasionally drank too many beers, he said he never drank to the point where he blacked out or couldnt remember what had happened. But several classmates at Yale have stepped forward to say Kavanaugh was a frequent drinker who became belligerent when under the influence of alcohol. Brett was a frequent drinker, and a heavy drinker, said a Yale classmate, Chad Ludington, who now lives in North Carolina. On many occasions, I heard Brett slur his words and saw him staggering from alcohol consumption, not all of which was beer. He was a notably heavy drinker, even by the standards of the time, and he became aggressive and belligerent when he was very drunk, said James Roche, a Wilton native who was Kavanaughs freshman roommate and a friend of Ramirez. I did not observe the specific incident in question (involving Ramirez), but I do remember Brett frequently drinking excessively and becoming incoherently drunk. On Tuesday, Trump defended Kavanaugh, calling him a high-quality person and a top intellect. He told reporters at the White House that he hoped McConnell could bring the confirmation vote to the Senate floor this week, but it will be dependent on what comes back from the FBI They're working very hard. And let's see what happens. dan@hearstdc.com BRIDGEPORT Jean Stott sat cross-legged on a new grave at Park Cemetery Wednesday afternoon, her tears darkening the freshly turned soil. My grandfather is supposed to be buried here, the Shelton woman cried. But now I dont know where he is. A small stone at the head of the grave has the name of the World War II veteran Richard Bouchard, who died in 1979. But right in front of Bouchards stone is a marker and a photo of Lucila Torres, who appears to have been buried in the same spot just two weeks ago. Like Stott, dozens of people from all over the state descended on the Lindley Street cemetery Wednesday, following publication of a story by Hearst Connecticut Media about human bone fragments and broken casket parts found by police around the cemetery evidence, they said, that older graves were moved to make room for new ones. People raced to the final resting places of loved ones, some whooping for joy on finding graves intact, others wandering around in a daze, or like Stott, sobbing on finding someone else apparently buried in their familys plot. Sandy Franklin, of Bethel, who has relatives spanning a number of generations buried in the cemetery, pointed out places where two stones from unrelated people had been placed together on plots, while other stones had just been turned over, hiding the inscriptions. The only pristine stone appeared to belong to cemetery manager Dale LaPrade, and was inscribed with her name and a birth date. LaPrade is alive, but she was not around on Thursday. Heartbroken relatives Bridgeport Police Chief Armando Perez said the situation at the cemetery was disheartening, but likely not criminal. More News Human bones, casket pieces found scattered in cemetery It appears she (LaPrade) is an older person who is running the cemetery and perhaps doesnt have the skills necessary to do so but it does not appear that it rises to criminal activity and an arrest, the chief said after reviewing the results of an investigation by his detectives. Cheryl Jansen, formerly of Shelton who has four generations of her family buried in the 140-year-old Lindley Street cemetery, said she is disappointed with the chiefs explanation, but not surprised. There are no real penalties for what (LaPrade) did, and I think thats what the police found out, Jansen said. A spokesperson for the state Department of Consumer Protection said it has received no complaints regarding Park Cemetery and referred a reporter to the state Department of Public Health, which licenses cemeteries. That department did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Jansen, who now lives in Florida, filed a lawsuit against LaPrade seeking to have her fired and replaced with another manager. A Superior Court judge is considering her request. During a hearing in court on Tuesday, police detectives Jorge Cintron and Kimberly Biehn told Superior Court Judge Elizabeth Stewart that dozens of headstones, some dating to the 1800s, had been moved at Park Cemetery so the newly dead could be buried in plots stacked on old graves. New dirt was put over older graves and new graves were put there, Biehn testified. There was fresh soil over old head stones and they were in the process of building an access road through the stones, Cintron testified. In the woods we found old headstones and human bones that had just been thrown around. Cintron said a grave digger told him he had been ordered by LaPrade to throw old bones and caskets away to make room for new graves. Its disheartening at best, Perez said. Money troubles Several area funeral homes still do business with Park Cemetery, even though a cemetery historian testified at the hearing that most of the cemetery was already fully occupied years ago. The George Peterson Funeral home has a burial scheduled there on Friday. We have never had any issues with the cemetery, said funeral director Leslie Vincent. I use the cemetery a lot, said Andre Baker Jr., director of the Baker-Isaac Funeral Home. Ive dealt with her (LaPrade), she has always been polite and forthcoming in making arrangements with us and our families. Ive never experienced any problems, nothing unusual. David Larson, director of Larson Funeral Home, said he used Park Cemetery in the past. Im familiar with Dale and have not had any problems, but its obvious the conditions at the cemetery have deteriorated over the years, said Larson. I always just assumed it was because of a lack of funding. Jansen said the cemetery is owned by an association made up of the families who have loved ones buried there. She believes that LaPrade and her husband started as employees of the cemetery more than 10 years ago and slipped into the role of managers after a vacancy. LaPrades husband no longer works there because of health issues. Court records show the LaPrades are being sued for more than $9,000 owed a company for trash pickup at the cemetery. The couple lost their Stratford home to foreclosure last year. LaPrade did not return calls for comment. Dale LaPrade, although issued a subpoena, did not appear for the court hearing. She had had multiple opportunities to come to court and tell her story and she didnt do it, Jansen said. She is old and has some disabilities, and my goal is just to get rid of her and get someone in there who can run it right. Who would have thought you would have to worry about your loved ones after they are gone? Jansen said. Its like going through their deaths all over again. BIRMINGHAM, England - Former British foreign secretary Boris Johnson on Tuesday excoriated Prime Minister Theresa May's road map to exiting the European Union as a sad, weak and dangerous mistake. In a brutal speech at the annual Conservative Party conference, Johnson blasted his fellow Tory, saying her approach is not only "politically humiliating" but "a cheat" against everyone who voted for Brexit. The loquacious Etonian famous for his blond bird's nest of hair almost ran out of words to condemn May's strategy for the divorce deal of the decade. "This is not pragmatic, it is not a compromise," Johnson warned. "It is dangerous and unstable - politically and economically." "My fellow Conservatives, this is not democracy. This is not what we voted for. This is an outrage. This is not taking back control. This is forfeiting control." The hall was overflowing. Delegates queued for more than an hour to get in to hear the speech, which dominated British airwaves despite being presented as a "fringe event" at the conference, upstaging humdrum addresses by May's cabinet ministers, who talked taxes, housing and the perils of food waste in a mostly empty hall next door. Michael Deacon, a columnist for the Telegraph wrote that Johnson "humiliated" May at her own party - "and Tory members cheered every word." Conservatives have long suspected that what Johnson wants most of all is to become prime minister some day, but they are doubtful he will mount a challenge right now. "The voters would punish us for staging a leadership fight in the middle of Brexit," said Tom Lees, an engineer and Conservative party member attending the conference. The flamboyant Johnson was the face of the Brexit campaign in the summer of 2016, when citizens voted 48 to 52 percent to split from the EU. Back then, Johnson and his allies promised Brits that leaving the world's biggest free-trade zone would be easy, allowing London to "take back control" from faceless bureaucrats in Brussels, while slashing the number of immigrants and providing a windfall of cash to save Britain's financially strapped universal health-care service. But Brexit has been nothing if not chaotic and costly - as the pound sterling has been hammered and economists say uncertainty over future relations with Europe has slowed growth. Hardcore Brexiteers like Johnson hate May's plan. They deride it as "Brexit in name only," a capitulation to wily continentals. They want a clean, complete break from the Europe's rule-making, so a "global Britain" could flex its new regulatory freedoms to strike trade deals on its own. Johnson resigned in July as the foreign secretary after May persuaded her fractured cabinet - including Johnson - to approve her "Chequers plan," named after her official countryside estate. May's plan seeks to protect as much as possible frictionless, tariff-free trade of goods with the bloc by agreeing to follow a "common rule book" with EU regulations for safety and standards for goods, while Britain goes its own way on financial services. May has struggled to come up with a plan that avoids a hard border - for passport control, customs duties and inspections - between Northern Ireland, which remains a part of the U.K., and the Republic of Ireland, which remains in the EU. To add to May's challenges, the Democratic Unionist Party of Northern Ireland - which is propping up the Conservative's minority government - warned they would crash the ruling coalition if May agreed to erect a border in the Irish Sea. May's 100-page Chequers plan is not only unpopular at home and among her own party members, but also in Brussels. At a recent meeting of European leaders, Donald Tusk, the European Council president, warned May that her plan "will not work" and asked her to do better. British Environment Minister Michael Gove, a top Brexiteer, suggested the government should back May, adding any deal struck now could be renegotiated later. Johnson told his audience that was a "total fantasy." He warned, "The opposite will happen." He called the half-in, half-out approach a recipe for continued acrimony. Johnson said May's plan to harmonize rules and regulations with Europe is not what he campaigned for - or what the people want. Hard-line Brexiteers have been pushing the government to "chuck Chequers" and try for a trade deal similar to the one negotiated between Canada and the EU. But that deal took years to hammer out and requires border controls and inspections. Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond, who backs May's compromise, called Johnson "a big-picture man" who is weak on the details. "This is a very detailed and complex negotiation. It doesn't require big, sweeping statements," Hammond told the BBC. So far, though, May's negotiators have not managed to make a deal with the EU, either. Britain is willing to listen to "alternative ways" of leaving the union, said the new Brexit secretary, Dominic Raab, who complained at the Tory conference that the Europeans needed to "get serious." European leaders also have grumbled that Britain bickers, delays and dawdles - and that it wants to have its cake and eat it, too, as Johnson once famously boasted. It did not help matters that Britain's new foreign secretary, Jeremy Hunt, compared the EU to the Soviet Union. "The EU was set up to protect freedom. It was the Soviet Union that stopped people leaving," Hunt said Monday. "If you turn the EU club into a prison, the desire to get out won't diminish, it will grow, and we won't be the only prisoner that will want to escape." After Johnson's speech, which was repeatedly interrupted by applause, Graham Jones, a Tory member and West Lancashire lawyer, said, "We hope that Theresa May hears Boris and gets the message." May told the BBC that Johnson put on "a good show," but she was "cross" with him for being reckless about Northern Ireland's concerns. Back in 7th grade, Emma Diamond sat spellbound in front of the TV during the Oscars, notebook in hand, writing down her votes for best dressed. This year, she spent the evening combing social media comments for the best celebrity witticisms -- and popularizing them via her fast-growing Instagram account. Diamond is the creator of @CommentsByCelebs, which highlights the funny, sweet and sometimes eyebrow-raising back-and-forth between high-profile actors, musicians, internet personalities and more. Since April 2017, Diamond has run the account with her co-founder (and fellow Syracuse University alumna) Julie Kramer. The two women, who grew up fans of celebrities such as Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake and Jennifer Lopez, decided to put off grad school to focus on their brand full time -- and they also run category-specific sister accounts @CBCAthletes, @CBCBravo and @CBCYouTube. With upwards of 800,000 followers, the account is a phenomenon in and of itself, featuring one-off remarks by the likes of Gwen Stefani, Sarah Jessica Parker and John Mayer -- and thats just within the past two days. Diamond and Kramer personally count talk show host Kelly Ripa and model and author Chrissy Teigen among the accounts fans. As for why we find celebrity comments so thrilling? Its humanizing celebrities and making them relatable in a way theyve never been before, Diamond said, adding that 10 years ago, celebrities seemed like someone from another world. Now, through social media, fans have unprecedented, behind-the-scenes access to the lives of their favorite household names. Something about reading a celebritys words in a comment feels intimate. Its not a staged paparazzi shot, Diamond said. Entrepreneur spoke with Diamond and Kramer about their inspiration, favorite celebrity comments and advice for others who aspire to build a brand on Instagram. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Tell us what sparked the idea for @CommentsByCelebs. Diamond: It started as a simple idea and hobby. I saw the Instagram algorithm change to highlight celebrity comments, and I capitalized on that change. In April 2017, I started screenshotting celebrity comments, created the account and brought Julie on board to run it with me. I had met her at Syracuse University in our sorority when I was a senior and she was a sophomore, and that April, I was getting ready to go to grad school. I texted her from my couch about the idea -- my first text was, Youre not telling a soul. We didnt tell anyone we ran the account until we reached 80,000 followers -- we kept it a secret from all of our friends for almost a year. At the time, I couldnt believe no one else was doing it, and we got such a great response. I didnt anticipate this type of growth, but when I started it, I did say my goal was to reach a million followers by January 2018, and Julie and my family members can attest to that. Kramer: That was always our big joke -- when Em started the account and texted me saying, Do you want to run this with me? she said it was going to be big. Neither of us had anticipated this, but she always knew it would be big. When I read her message, I was abroad and it was late at night for me. We worked together to figure out the name, adjusting it from Comments by Celebrities to Comments by Celebs. A few months after we started it I was living in my sorority house and people would say, Does anyone know who runs this account? I would say, I have no idea! What does a typical day look like? Diamond: Its so funny when people ask us this because I wish there was a better way for us to outline our time. Every day is so different. Julie and I are only together about one or two days a week right now -- the rest of the time we work remotely, and all day were texting and talking on the phone. In terms of the content, its all both of us -- were constantly bouncing ideas off each other. The first thing we do when we wake up in the morning is check the account inboxes -- and often, there will be 100 messages with comments that we never even saw. Were lucky we have followers sending us things so frequently. Most days we have meetings and calls, but in between, were formatting content, deciding how much we want to post that day or strategizing about ways to get specific celebrity followers or target engagement from certain celebrities. Once a week, we record our podcast in Manhattans Flatiron District. Kramer: I agree that every day is different. Theres a lot of back-and-forth on deciding what to post. I wake up after Emma, but other than that my day is pretty much the same. Ill send something to her that she hasnt seen yet or vice versa. When it comes to day-to-day posting, we discuss everything together. Diamond: We post between two and seven times a day. In an ideal world the posts would be more spaced out, but because weve become a news source were kind of at the mercy of when celebrities are commenting. I would say 90 percent of our content isnt pre-planned -- we just wake up every day and see whats going to happen. Its almost happening live, and nothing we post is more than four days old. How do you leverage the account, and to what extent do you monetize it? Diamond: Thats been very new for us. We were hesitant at first because we wanted to make sure we were doing it in a very strategic way to stay true to our content. I dont have a number for you yet because its all too new, but its about working with brands that can understand our vision and our content. I dont know how much I can say right now, but I think a lot of the monetization will come through bringing the brand to life through different mediums. What advice do you have for others who want to build a brand on the platform? Diamond: Consistency and patience are really important. If you have a vision, trust in that vision regardless of what the engagement is. For example, we started in April, but by February, we were only at 80,000 followers. We continued to post every single day, and now were at 800,000. Its also important to stay true to your brand voice and not sacrifice your integrity just because you think somethings going to go viral. There are so many things we dont post even though they would go viral -- for example, very negative comments or drama-filled exchanges. And if a celebrity writes a comment, then regrets and deletes it, well usually check with them before posting it. When we see that, we dont think, We struck gold. Instead, we think, Theres probably a reason they deleted it. Lets check with them to make sure. Kramer: One of the most important things we did was build connections with people regardless of whether or not we knew who they were. Weve treated everyone the same. People sent messages to our inbox, and we always went the extra mile to interact with them. Then, sometimes they had an connection that they'd set us up with, since we were kind in the beginning. Whats the best part about working together? Diamond: When I first texted Julie about the idea, we werent as close as we are now, but it was a no-brainer for me to reach out to her. I wanted someone who I thought had the same level of pop culture knowledge and interest, intelligence and wit. Julie is very smart and funny, and she can keep up. The way our relationship has blossomed has been amazing. People say not to do business with friends, but in my experience, it's been a blessing. We know we have a certain level of trust with each other, and thats one of the reasons weve been so hesitant to hire externally. Not having to second-guess for even one second if the other person is one the same page is really comforting. Kramer: Who let us start a company together? Its so true -- were both incredibly lucky to be able to wake up every day and work together. Diamond: We have so much fun. We're laughing all day, right? Kramer: All day. See below for five of Diamond and Kramer's favorite posts. John Mayer inquiring as to the photography dynamic of Hailey Baldwin & Justin Biebers kissing photo. Chrissy Teigen clapping back in the most Chrissy Teigen way. Bella Hadid weighing in. Kelly Ripa being the legend she is. The #tbt to end all #tbts. Related: How Two Millennials Spun Celebrities' Instagram Comments Into a Full-Time Job and 800,000 Followers How the Creator of @OverheardLA and @OverheardNewYork Turned the Act of Eavesdropping Into 2.6 Million Instagram Followers This Style Blogger Got Her Start in Her Dorm Room. Today She Has Over a Million Followers and a Fashion Line. Copyright 2018 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved Christine Blasey Ford testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Photo: Pool/Getty Images In a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee, an ex-boyfriend of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford says she once helped a friend prepare for a potential polygraph exam, leading committee chairman Charles Grassley to question whether the woman who has accused Brett Kavanaugh of a teenage sexual assault was truthful during Senate testimony last week. The friend he identifies, however, denied having been advised by Ford. The sworn statement, which was obtained by Fox News, was written by an unnamed man who says he dated Ford from 1992 to 1998. He writes that he found her truthful during their relationship and says he has no ill will toward her. BREAKING: Foxs @johnrobertsFox obtains letter from Ford ex-boyfriend alleging: dated for 6 yrs, never told of sex assault, Ford coached friend on taking polygraph, flew frequently w/o expressing any fear of flying/tight spaces/limited exits. Doesnt want to b/c involved. pic.twitter.com/jVeW0qaJD0 Shannon Bream (@ShannonBream) October 3, 2018 In the letter, the ex-boyfriend says Ford once helped ease the nerves of a friend who was preparing for a polygraph. Ford, the letter says, explained in detail what to expect, how polygraphs worked, and helped [her friend] become familiar and less nervous about the exam. In his own letter to Fords lawyers Tuesday night, Grassley wrote that the ex-boyfriends claim raises specific concerns about the reliability of her polygraph examination results. He also pointed out the conflict between the ex-boyfriends letter and Fords testimony last Thursday. Monica McLean, the woman referred to in the letter, denied having been advised by Ford, in a statement released by Fords lawyers. I have never had Christine Blasey Ford, or anybody else, prepare me, or provide any other type of assistance whatsoever in connection with any polygraph exam I have taken at anytime, wrote McLean. During the hearing, Arizona prosecutor Rachel Mitchell asked Ford if shed ever had discussions with anyone, outside of her lawyers, about how to take a polygraph. Ford said she hadnt. Mitchell got more specific: And I dont just mean countermeasures, but I mean just any sort of tips, or anything like that? Ford again said no. Then Mitchell asked one more time: Have you ever given tips or advice to somebody who was looking to take a polygraph test? Never, Ford said. In addition to the polygraph claim, the ex-boyfriend attempts to cast doubt on Fords testimony by saying that she never brought up the alleged assault during their relationship. He also says she never seemed afraid of flying while they were together. The letter ends with the ex-boyfriend saying he does not want to become involved in this process. Melania Trump began her week-long sojourn to Africa in Accra, Ghana. Landing Tuesday morning, the first lady was greeted on the tarmac by Ghanaian first lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo and a bouquet of flowers wrapped in kente cloth followed by a dancing-and-drumming performance. From Ghana, Trump will travel to Malawi, then Kenya, and finally to Egypt, an itinerary that places the typically private first lady half a world away from her headline-dominating husband - and into the global spotlight. Though the first lady's trip is seen as a gesture of goodwill, it also appears to some critics of the Trump administration as out of step with her husband's policies. Her stops will largely highlight programs funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development, even as the Trump administration has proposed massive cuts to USAID's budget. Later this week, the first lady is also expected to tour an elephant and rhino conservatory in Kenya, even though the Trump administration loosened regulations on trophy hunting and the import of elephant tusks and other animal parts. In addition, prominent members of the Trump family are big-game hunters. As she greets dignitaries in the four countries, Melania Trump is expected to engage in the kind of "soft diplomacy" expected of first ladies. Unlike her predecessors, Trump has to contend with the baggage of her husband's belittling comments about African nations that made headlines across the continent. But USAID administrator Mark Green, who will accompany the first lady in Ghana, sees value in the trip. It serves to "symbolize American values and engagement. It spotlights and raises the profile of American programs in action." And he said Melania Trump's focus on children drew her to the region. "She had genuine interest in youth," he said. The median age of Africa's more than 1 billion people is only 19. Stephanie Grisham, the first lady's spokeswoman, said the trip is consistent with both first lady's platform and Trump administration policy, noting that the president has said, "The U.S. is the world's largest giver of foreign aid." "Africa remains a priority for this administration and I believe the first lady's trip through the continent will showcase just that," she said. In the countries that the first lady plans to visit, there's been little buzz about the trip, in part because details have been tightly held, except for some social-media muttering about Melania Trump coming to take selfies with children and animals. Animal conservationists also have been discussing the Kenya leg of the trip, especially since Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump are avid game hunters. A photograph of Trump Jr. holding a knife and a dead elephant's tail after a hunt in Zimbabwe in 2011 went viral on social media. "The policies set by the United States have significant impact on our ability to manage our wildlife sustainably," said Kaddu Sebunya, president of the African Wildlife Foundation in Nairobi. "We hope that the first lady's visit will illuminate the enormous benefit conservation provides to our continent, people and economies . . . [and] will result in a reversal of some of the funding cuts to biodiversity conservation." A first lady's goals on such a trip are typically twofold, said Myra Gutin, a communication professor at Rider University who studies first ladies. They highlight their initiatives - in Trump's case, that's her "Be Best" campaign aimed at improving the well-being of children. And then there's the diplomatic mission. On that front, Trump may have a harder task than previous first ladies, Gutin said. Trump had long planned this trip. "This was her idea," Grisham said. "In fact, she has always envisioned Africa for her first solo international swing. She is eager to educate herself about each country - history, culture, challenges, successes." What does Trump hope to accomplish on her first solo trip abroad? Those goals are not completely clear, said J. Peter Pham, the director of the Atlantic Council's Africa Center. "It's incumbent on her to describe what her objectives are, and then we can assess whether it's a success," Pham said. During the first leg of her journey, Trump will tour a Ghanaian-run hospital that has had success in reducing child mortality. The Trump administration has sought to drastically reduce the USAID funding to the continent, slashing it by as much as 30 percent in its proposed budgets. That generated alarm among many in humanitarian circles that it would close U.S. developmental and health programs and diminish efforts to combat AIDS and malaria. Congress ultimately voted to restore the funding. USAID, which worked with the first lady's office on the trip, has spent over $47 billion on AIDS, malaria and other health programs over the last decade. In Malawi, her second stop, Trump is expected to focus on children's literacy efforts. --- The Washington Post's Max Bearak in Nairobi contributed to this report. Local Problems, Global Tech Photo: Purusottam Singh Thakur India has the worlds second-largest online population, with approximately 500 million users, a figure that represents less than 40 percent of its overall population of 1.3 billion. That leaves a tremendous amount of potential growth and helps explain why, a few years ago, Facebook fought so hard for its embattled Free Basic program, which teamed up with mobile-phone carriers to provide certain web services (including, of course, its own) for free. The plan was highly controversial across India and the world, and in the summer of 2016, Indias internet regulatory authority struck it down. But while the fight over the Indian internet was brewing, most of the debates took place in Indias urban core. Meanwhile, in Central Gondwana, an eastern-central region often described as Indias heartland, another social network was slowly growing entirely offline. That network is CGNet Swara, a voice portal for community stories that responded to Indias comparatively low percentage of internet users by avoiding the internet entirely. Instead, CGNet Swara operates on a basic mobile call-in system, known as integrated voice response (IVR). Though the internet has made few inroads to Central Gondwana 3 percent of households in rural India have internet access mobile-phone service is more common, accessible to nearly a third of residents. To connect, users dial, hang up, and wait for a callback (this last step saves them on mobile fees). Once theyre connected to the system, they can press one to submit a story or press two to listen to the days eight highlighted stories, which have been selected, fact-checked, and published by a small team of local editors. Though Swara founder Shubhrashu Choudhary playfully refers to the system as Voicebook, riffing on Facebooks name, Swara operates much more like a curated, oral Twitter feed. Since Swara was launched in 2010, locals have often used the platform to share unresolved grievances, hoping to publicly shame officials into action or to find others, among listeners, who could help with the problem. In the eight years since its launch, the platform has logged over a million calls and published more than 10,000 reports. These have included everything from reporting cholera outbreaks and resolving payment disputes to sharing news about village affairs. The network also features poetry and folk songs. Choudhary created Swara with the help of an American computer scientist, Bill Thies, who is a researcher at Microsoft Research. But he realized its need much earlier, when he had returned to his childhood home as a journalist working for the BBC in the 90s. Gondwana is a large, disparate region. It encompasses six states and numerous ethnicities and spoken languages. Its also home to a long-simmering Maoist insurgency that has killed more than 10,000 people since its first armed uprising in 1967. The insurgency was fed, in part, by a number of long-ignored local grievances. This included a lack of basic services and amenities, such as educational opportunities, medical care, and land ownership. This was exacerbated by language differences in the region; most of Gondwanas residents speak local languages, including Gondi (after which the region is named), rather than Indias official language, Hindi. As a result, many of the residents biggest issues were ignored by authorities and Indian media alike. Choudhary says that this lack of tools available to locals motivated his creation of Swara. To him, creating a local forum was imperative for democracy. If you speak to 99 percent of the people, Why have they taken up guns? They told me, This is pen, this is our mic were trying to speak. Choudhary saw the dot-com boom and how the internet was changing democracy around the world, and, in 2004, he created an online discussion group, CGNet, to bring together community members dedicated to improving the region. The forum was growing, but the widespread social changes wrought by the internet elsewhere had yet to make their way to Gondwana perhaps because the internet itself had yet to come to Gondwana. As Choudhary recalled, at the time of Swaras founding, less than one percent of households in the region had internet access. He realized that for CGNet to truly become a platform that represented the people, he needed to move it offline. So, in 2010, Choudhary teamed up with Thies to build the offline flat communication platform, where everybody can tell stories just like everyone can vote. Choudhary was and remains hopeful. If we can democratize communication, maybe we will contribute in bringing peace here. CGNet Swara was originally created to fill a particular need: offering an internet-like form of communication in a context with limited connectivity. But internet access may be about to drastically increase in Chhattisgarh, one of the states of Gondwana where Swara is particularly active. In November, Chhattisgarh will hold state-level elections, and its chief minister has launched a scheme to give every family a smartphone and a six-month data plan. Will the voice-based Swara still be relevant? Choudhary thinks so. Though the core of Swara takes place offline, every report is also published online as well. And ultimately, Swara is more about providing an inclusive, representative forum the experience of the internet than the fact that it is offline. Local Problems, Global Tech Electoral officials in Lagos count ballots in Nigerias 2015 presidential election. Photo: Emmanuel Arewa/AFP/Getty Images Elections are a cornerstone of democracy, and also one of the most common features undermined by autocratic governments trying to appear democratic. Russia prefers ballot stuffing and voter intimidation. In Uganda, leaders have taken the arrest the opposition leader route. Egypts president, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who ran unopposed this year, didnt even bother with the appearance of an option candidate. NGOs and civil servants around the world monitor elections to serve as a check on the official government voting results. That being said, conducting opinion polls, reaching out to voters, and monitoring for election interference requires rich resources and mounds of money two things often in short supply, especially in many of the worlds younger democracies. Some local groups are using their tech knowledge to make the election monitoring process easier. One company leading this charge is the Nigerian start-up TimbaObjects. Founded in 2009 by Tim Akinbo, the company created an SMS-based program called Apollo to help election monitors quickly and efficiently relay voter-turnout information and call out interference. The Apollo software takes traditional poll-observer documents and pairs each description with a unique code. Election observers can note what time polls open, confirm if voting centers possess the necessary resources to conduct elections (like ink and paper), and determine whether or not any illegal activity occurred. Each one of these situations has an associated code that the observers then text, in real time, to Apollos database. From there, analysts can observe the data and compare it to the governments official election results. They can also dig deeper and look for anomalies or corrupt practice. Before this system, the traditional monitoring process of filling out paper forms and mailing them to a physical data collector, who laboriously inserts each observation manually, could take up to three weeks. With Akinbos software, that time gets reduced down to the speed of a text. Partnering with the National Democratic Institute, TimbaObjects rolled out their election monitoring tools during the 2011 Nigerian presidential elections. As the election neared, Akinbo remembers being overcome by nerves. The validity of the national election his own nations election fell, at least in part, squarely on his shoulders. I felt a huge sense of responsibility, Akinbo said. I felt a great sense of patriotism as well. In 2015, Akinbos software was put to the test once again during what the New York Times referred to as the most contested election in Nigerias post-independence history. Corruption scandals and the deadly impact of the Boko Haram terrorist group made valid, dependable election monitoring all the more urgent. Election monitors were equipped with a cell phone preloaded with the Apollo software. From there, they sent their observations of voters and election irregularities via text message to the systems central database. When the dust settled and the final ballots were counted, the former military ruler Muhammadu Buhari, who had previously seized power in a 1983 coup, emerged victorious with 53 percent of the vote. Though the election was contentious, Apollo verified the results as accurate. The software draws strength from its simplicity. While Nigerian monitors may lack the resources and funding of their American and E.U. counterparts, the backbone of their system relies on something nearly every Nigerian has a cell phone. The Nigerian test case did not go unnoticed. Since the 2011 election, Apollo has expanded to assist election monitors in 15 countries, Among them Tunisia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, and Azerbaijan. Akinbo says Nigerians still remain the softwares top users. It is a thing of pride for members of Nigerian civil society that this software is made by Nigerians, Akinbo said. Localizing Election Accountability Local election monitoring can often be a thankless task. Like a bridge off an island, accurate voter monitoring is something people tend not to notice until it ceases to work. Take the recent Russian presidential example. Despite monitoring by numerous international NGOs, the Russian state continues to sufficiently disrupt its own domestic turnout results through ballot stuffing, repeat voting, and voter intimidation. Its also how you end up with videos like this of people literally using balloons to block off election monitoring cameras while staff members stuffed ballot boxes with papers handed to them by government poll workers. The 2016 Ugandan elections were similarly accused of being both unfair and unfree, despite the presence of international election observers. This proves that the mere presence of observers is not enough. Effective election monitoring requires rapid and accurate reporting, something the data-heavy Apollo attempts to provide. For Akinbo, the project has just begun. He says that with help from the National Democratic Institute, he hopes to expand the software to local civil society groups worldwide. Projects like this go a long way to convince people watching that the democratic process is being protected, he said. Akinbo has global aspirations. Until then, hell continue to hold the government accountable in his home country. Nigeria will conduct another presidential election in February, and Apollo will be there to keep tabs. First, there was General Electrics departure for Boston. Then, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, formerly of New Haven, decamped there. Now, Boston will be the workplace of Connecticuts governor when he leaves office, that is. Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has accepted a position as a visting professor at Boston Colleges Law School for the spring 2019 semester. Malloy earned his undergraduate degree and juris doctorate from Boston College. He graduated from the Law School in 1980. As an incoming undergraduate student with a serious learning disability, BC took a chance on me at the time, said Malloy in a statement. Now, I have the honor to give back at an institution and community that have given me so much. Malloy and his wife Cathy purchased a 4-bedroom colonial in Essex, Conn. this summer. That home will be their permanent residence despite Malloys new Boston post, Kelly Donnelly, a spokesman for the governor, said. As the Law Schools Rappaport Visting Professor, Malloy will offer a seminar and participate in lectures and panel discussions for one semester. This endowed visiting professorship has enabled us to bring the real world into our classrooms in the form of thoughtful government leaders like Governor Malloy, who offer strategic perspectives and an appreciation for the hands-on work required to produce effective policies, said Vincent Rougeau, dean of the Boston College Law School, in a statement. Malloy, who took office as governor in 2011, is unsure what his full-time occupation will be when his administration ends in January, Donnelly said. Prior to leading the states executive branch, he was mayor of Stamford, where he grew up, from 1995 to 2009, and a partner at the Stamford law firm Abate and Fox from 1984 to 1995. Former Gov. Jodi M. Rell, who took a permanent residence in Florida in 2016, has lead a largely private life after her administration from 2004 to 2011. She is the namesake for the Rell Center for Public Service at the University of Hartford, where she hosted a televised, job interview-style forum for candidates for governor in June. Rell took office after former three-term Gov. John G. Rowland resigned in July 2004 due to a federal corruption investigation. Rowland pleaded guilty in December 2004 as part of a pay-to-play scheme and served 10 months in federal prison. In 2016, Rowland was convicted of election fraud and obstruction of justice for hiding his political consulting roles in two campaigns. He began serving a 30-month sentence in fall 2016, at a minimum security prison camp in Pennsylvania. He was released from federal custody in May 2018. Between prison sentences, Rowland had a popular drive-time talk radio show on the conservative WTIC-AM station in Farmington, Conn. emunson@hearstmediact.com; Twitter: @emiliemunson Let's be honest: Finding a roommate can be a giant headache. In a best-case scenario, you'll end up living with someone who becomes your BFF; worst case, you'll end up signing a lease with an epic weirdo. For anyone with a horrible roommate story, the warning signs typically started to show after you moved innot from first glance at the roommate wanted ad. But in the case of the nutty ads below, the renters showed their true colors from the get-go. Take a look at some of the most outlandish roommate wanted ads we've ever seen posted. If reading this doesn't make you happy that you live alone (or at least with a levelheaded roommate), we don't know what will. 'Steeler fans only' Know how many Super Bowls the Steelers have won? You'd better if you want to live here. pbs.com Baltimore Ravens fans need not apply. This ad, posted in 2016 by avid Pittsburgh Steelers fans named "John" and "Scott" in Sharpsburg, PA, spelled out exactly the type of roommate they're looking for. At the time the ad was posted, it caught the attention of Rolling Stone reporter Scott Rafferty. The flyer is "awesome, even if it probably breaks some kind of anti-discrimination law," Rafferty noted. Living in the loo Exactly where will you and your air mattress go when your roomie is using the can? craigslist.org A $400 living situation in New York City's East Village sounds like the ultimate sublet, but scan the details and you'll realize it may be the lowest form of slumlord-ing known to man. This listing, which appeared on Craigslist in November 2008, indicates that the renter of the bathroomand the renter's guestsare confined to the room unless the "female" in her "mid 60s" needs to use the loo. For that reason alone, we'd have to imagine that she remained the lone occupant. Hog heaven? Who doesn't want to be bullied by a boar in their own home? http://www.craigslist.org Honesty is the best policy when it comes to talking about pets, no matter if it's a dog, cat, or potbellied pig. This ad, posted on Craigslist in January 2013, says the place is occupied by not one but two porkers. Before you succumb to their cuteness, you might want to remember they're "herd animals." And as you read on, you'll learn Franklin, the elder pig, "will bully you." It also seems fair to say that you will not be allowed to consume bacon in this crib. Don't expect to get a spot on that couch either! Must love nature The tent where you can rough it with two other roommates for $200 a month. http://www.craigslist.org San Francisco has been the most expensive city to rent in for a while now, so residents have had to get creative with their living situations. Case in point: this ad for a roommate to rent one-third of a tent for $50 a week, which appeared on Craigslist in September 2015. The original posters say the "tent moves locations throughout the week to keep fresh," and while that change of scenery may be nice, the idea of living in 15 square feet of space sounds like ... a challenge. Points for creativity If she's this creative, imagine what your holiday decor will look like. visualnews.com This is one way to stand out in the rental market! If you're charmed by the creativity of this post and not turned off by the over-the-top self-promotion, Lauren might be the roommate for you. And with all those testimonials, who wouldn't want to live with Lauren, right? Seriously, she had us at mac and cheese. We're sure she had tons of inquiries and not just about that "Ironic Naked Man" in the lower right-hand corner. This ad generated so much buzz that it appeared in HuffPost and Visual News in October 2013. Both publications praised the graphic designer for her creativity and cleverness. 'The hive is located in the living room' You're not allergic to bees, right? http://www.craigslist.org Forgive us for being daft, but isn't beekeeping typically an outdoor activity? Is it really wise to maintain a "rather large hive of Africanized honey bees" in the living room? According to this ad, posted to Craigslist in June 2003 for a room in an East Village apartment, "occasionally something sets [the bees] off and hive [sic] becomes enraged and tends to swarm." Sounds awesome! But even if sharing your life with a swarm of bees doesn't sound so bad, don't even think about bringing your "large collection of predatory insects" along. 'I just want your rent money' CIA-level background check is included with rent. craigslist.org This ad is a joke, right? Aside from copping to his or her impossibly high standards, the original poster basically admits that your security deposit ("three times the amount anyone could describe as reasonable") won't be returned, whether you like it or not. This ad, placed on Craigslist in January 2009, is either proof that the internet is a very dark place or that people will do anything to try to go viral. It's hard to believe the apartment, with its "magic sheet," had been posted for six weeks with no bites. The post 10 of the Wackiest Roommate Wanted Ads, Ever appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com. STORY LINK GBP JPY Exchange Rate Picks up as Japanese Service Sector Slows to Near-Stagnation Disappointing Round of UK PMIs Limit Pound Japanese Yen Exchange Rate Upside For Bank of England policymakers, the underlying story paints a mixed picture. On one hand, the Markit/CIPS press release again talks about firms operating at stretched capacity, given the increasing challenge in recruiting specialist staff. This, in turn, is forcing firms to lift salaries in a bid to attract/retain talent and suggests the better wage growth momentum we've seen this year is set to persist. That makes it likely that the Bank of England officials will continue to talk up the prospects of further tightening, but with Brexit risks mounting, realistically we think another rate hike before March 2019 is unlikely. Japanese Yen Looks Vulnerable as Market Risk Appetite Strengthens Like this piece? Please share with your friends and colleagues: A weaker-than-expected UK services PMI was not enough to drive the Pound Sterling to Japanese Yen (GBP/JPY) exchange rate lower on Wednesday.While the services PMI softened from 54.3 to 53.9 in September the sector remains firmly within a state of expansion, even in the face of mounting Brexit-based jitters.Although signs still point towards weakening business confidence and a muted economic outlook in the months ahead the mood towards the Pound did not sour significantly in the wake of the data.Demand for the Japanese Yen, meanwhile, faltered as Japans services PMI slumped from 51.5 to just 50.2, coming dangerously close to stagnation.This undermined confidence in the health of the Japanese economy, prompting investors to pile out of the Yen.An easing sense of market risk aversion also put pressure on the safe-haven Japanese Yen, with investor fears over the possibility of a fresh Eurozone crisis having diminished.Septembers raft of UK PMIs are unlikely to offer support to GBP exchange rates in the long term, however, as signs still point towards an increasingly pressured domestic economy.After the second quarters lacklustre gross domestic product reading investors are wary of the prospect of growth turning increasingly sluggish in the third quarter.As James Smith, Developed Markets Economist at ING, noted:Theresa Mays latest speech on the subject of Brexit did not offer any particular support to GBP exchange rates, meanwhile.As May noted that she is not afraid to exit the EU without any deal in place the odds of a hard Brexit increased once again.This stance naturally gave markets fresh cause for concern, with the prospect of a no-deal Brexit already weighing heavily on the outlook of the UK economy.Even so, if the threat of a leadership challenge against May diminishes this may give the Pound a fresh boost.As long as a sense of political uncertainty continues to hang over the UK, however, the GBP/JPY exchange rate remains vulnerable to downside pressure.With domestic data continuing to paint a rather glum picture the Japanese Yen remains reliant on wider market sentiment to strengthen against its rivals.After the announcement of a new US-Canada trade deal and easing worries over the budget conflict between the Italian government and the EU risk appetite has generally picked up.This has limited the support for the lower-yielding Yen, even though global trade tensions still look at risk of flaring up afresh.With NAFTA renegotiations dealt with the Trump administration looks set to turn increasing attention towards Japan, raising the risk of a trade spat.If the US threatens to impose tariffs on Japanese exports this could weigh heavily on the Japanese Yen, given the existing weakness of the domestic economy.However, JPY exchange rates could find some support if Fridays leading and coincident indexes show an improvement on the month.Any signs of strength within the Japanese economy may give the Yen a boost against its rivals, even though a positive reading here is unlikely to alter the weaker economic growth trajectory.Disappointing figures, on the other hand, would leave the Japanese Yen vulnerable to fresh selling pressure.If market risk appetite falters in response to stronger US labour market data, though, the GBP/JPY exchange rate may still struggle to gain ground ahead of the weekend. International Money Transfer? Ask our resident FX expert a money transfer question or try John's new, free, no-obligation personal service! ,where he helps every step of the way, ensuring you get the best exchange rates on your currency requirements. TAGS: Pound Yen Forecasts Local Problems, Global Tech Photo: Isaac Kasamani/AFP/Getty Images At midnight on July 1, Hamza Kwehangana was eating a late dinner alone in his room on the east side of Kampala, Ugandas capital city. He decided to send a message to his buddy. He picked up his phone, opened WhatsApp, typed out a text, and tapped the small blue send button. The message bounced back. Kwehangana tapped send again. The message for him, and for millions across the country, bounced back again. From that moment forward, everyone in Uganda would have to pay the government to send any messages on WhatsApp. The government of Uganda slapped a tax on 58 different social media services, including WhatsApp, Twitter, Facebook, Google Hangouts, Uber, Tinder, Instagram, and Skype. The tax came into effect after Ugandas President Yoweri Museveni blamed social media sites for the spread of gossip and fake news. The tax charges 200 shillings ($0.05) per day for social media use which is not insignificant in a country where about 25 percent of the population lives under the poverty line (defined as less than $1.25 a day, about 4,500 shillings). President Museveni claims he is trying to get Ugandans off their phones and back to work. Social-media use is definitely a luxury item, Museveni wrote in a blog post defending the tax, in which he compares the social media tax to taxes on other vices, like beer and cigarettes, that deter productivity. According to the president, social media should be restricted to those with disposable income and time for leisure activities. But the reality is, President Museveni has a track record of censoring online content thats critical of him and his regime. A journalist was arrested in November 2016 for circulating photos of a police raid in a WhatsApp group. In December 2016, the chairperson of the opposition party was arrested for posting a picture on Facebook that showed President Museveni photoshopped into a coffin. And in April 2017, an academic at Makerere University was arrested for a post on Facebook in which she called the President a pair of buttocks and his wife empty-brained. The government blocked access to social media during the 2011 and 2016 elections, when the hashtag #1986pictures went viral, highlighting how much has changed since Museveni was first elected in 1986. The tax on social media came soon after after the pop-star-turned-politician Bobi Wine used Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to criticize the incumbent administration and win a seat in Parliament for the opposition party. The outcry was swift and fierce. Twitter exploded in the hours after the tax went into effect, with people rallying behind #NoSocialMediaTax and #ThisTaxMustGo hashtags, paying the government to express their outrage with the government. Those who wanted to show some tech-savvy resistance started using VPNs to bypass the tax (although the government is now threatening to crack down on those as well). Civil rights activists called out the tax as an assault on free speech. By making people pay for using these platforms, this tax will render these avenues of communication inaccessible for low-income earners, robbing many people of their right to freedom of expression, with a chilling effect on other human rights, says Amnesty Internationals Joan Nyanyuki in a statement on the organizations website. This is a clear attempt to silence dissent, in the guise of raising government revenues. On July 11, protesters spilled offline and into the streets. Bobi Wine led a rally protesting the tax in the streets of Kampala. President Musevenis security forces fired bullets and tear gas into the crowd to try to disperse the protests. Bobi Wine had succeeded in fomenting political dissent online, which is exactly what Museveni was trying to discourage with the tax in the first place. ...there's no amount of bullets, teargas or arrests that will stop us. Some of our colleagues have been beaten up and others arrested. They must be freed for they have nothing against the police but rather the terrible tax.#PEOPLEPOWER_OURPOWER #ThisTaxMustGo pic.twitter.com/cxgo0No7EF BOBI WINE (@HEBobiwine) July 11, 2018 The social media tax has brought the generational chasm between the rulers and the ruled of Uganda into stark relief. President Museveni is 73 years old and shows no sign of stepping down. Hes been president for the last 32 years, first abolishing the presidential term limit and then the age limit, which would have required him to retire at 75. The median age of his cabinet ministers is 65. By contrast, Uganda has one of the youngest populations in the world. 78 percent of its population is under 30. Youth (15-24) unemployment is hovering around 70 percent. When this demographic majority looks to the government, they see a gerontocracy that doesnt represent them or understand their problems. Social media, by contrast, has provided an outlet for them to conduct business, get an education, engage in politics, and tap into global communication networks. Now the techno-savvy millennials of Kampala are meeting life under taxation with a mix of resistance, resignation, and new ideas for the future. Hamza Kwehangana in his office Photo: Courtesy of Hamza Kwehangana The Techie Kwehangana was surprised when the social media tax actually went into effect on July 1. The government had said it was coming, but it was unclear when and how the roll-out would happen. On that first night, Kwehangana went ahead and topped up his Mobile Money account to pay the tax, but the silence on his WhatsApp group chats was palpable. The day before the social media tax was put into effect, youre enjoying WhatsApp, connecting with buddies, sending memes. The groups were so active, says Kwehangana. The next day, the groups were mute. As the 23-year-old co-founder of a digital marketing startup, Kwehangana lives a lot of his life on the internet. Hes a bit shy, with an easy laugh, and infectiously enthusiastic about his work. Clients pay Kwehangana to design their websites and manage their digital marketing on social media mainly Facebook and Twitter. At least let someone be given the opportunity to express themselves, online or somewhere. Everyone deserves that. He also runs a popular tech blog on the side, called Go Tech UG, where he posts multiple times a week and gets about 10,000 visits a month. Soon after the social media tax went into effect, he wrote a post guiding readers through the process of installing a free VPN called Psiphon. Post-tax, Kwehangana has seen the numbers of people hes able to reach over social media decrease. Thats bad for his business. But perhaps the most annoying consequence of the tax is that anytime Kwehangana wants to get on social media, he has to drive 23 kilometers to get to his office. That can become a one-and-a-half-hour journey if hes stuck in a car during rush hour, which is why Kwehangana chooses to go by bike. Thats because Kwehangana is willing to pay the social media tax on his companys data plan, but its not worth it to him to pay the tax a second time for his personal plan. Kwehangana finds the inability to pay the tax once for all of the data plans linked to his name to be the most frustrating part of his new reality. Even though hes paying, he doesnt get access to social media outside the office. The fact is, I no longer have social media on the go, he says. If theres one thing our government should have done, its never to tax social media. For Kwehangana, social media is more than a source of livelihood. When I was growing up as Hamza, I experienced moments where I didnt have a place to express myself as an individual, as a person, as who I am, he says. I find platforms like social media platforms, blogging platforms, as a place whereby someone like me can find refuge. He still believes in the digital dream. Hes trying to expand the business, not only in Uganda but also abroad. Right now he has international clients, in countries including Austria, Nigeria, and Canada. He cant afford to let his business get derailed by the governments policies, or the disruption thats followed. The city of Kampala shut down the day that Bobi Wine returned to Uganda after his recovery in the U.S. No one was working. If Kwehangana lets this kind of unrest affect his productivity, theyll take their business elsewhere. The Journalist On a warm evening in late July, Kwehangana joined about 20 other bloggers on the terrace of Ibamba Restaurant at the Uganda Museum. It was the monthly Bloggers Happy Hour. The theme of this months meetup was the social media tax and how it had impacted digital content creators. One of the speakers was Ruth Aine, a 32-year-old freelance blogger and journalist. Aine doesnt mince words. She describes the tax as a very badly thought-out, badly communicated, and badly executed tax law. Aine is quick to point out the number of ways the government has botched the tax implementation. The tax is meant to be a daily or weekly tax on individual end users. But it doesnt operate that way. If you top up daily, it expires at midnight regardless of whether it was bought at 6 a.m. or 6 p.m., she says, reiterating Kwehanganas complaint. Most people are now available on social media during office hours because they are using the office Wi-Fi. Aine also draws attention to the tax payment method, which she describes as impractical and discriminatory. The law makes it so that people have to pay the tax through a service called Mobile Money. The government instituted a tax on Mobile Money at the same time that it implemented the one on social media. So now people are paying a tax both on the services and on the method of paying the tax. The tax on Mobile Money affects low-income and high-income Ugandans alike. The low-income are further boxed out of services, while the thriving Mobile Money sector is suffering financial losses. A screenshot of the Mobile Money app showing the social media tax. Photo: Courtesy of Hamza Kwehangana The invention of Mobile Money has been revolutionary in Uganda and across eastern Africa. In a largely cash-based economy, it lets people pay for goods and services in cash using their phones. People are citing Mobile Money as a way in which African countries are leapfrogging forward in the digital economy. In the past decade, registered Mobile Money customers have grown to over 22 million. It has facilitated the flow of 63 trillion shillings ($16.3 billion) across the country and given millions of Ugandans access to formal financial services. For Musevenis opposition, the tax on Mobile Money is symbolic of a government that prioritizes short-term greed over long-term growth. Aine is focused on how the tax will affect online communities that use social media as a forum to support each other and raise money for local causes. In a recent blog post, she wrote about a Facebook group called Cake Shop Uganda. Its a private group with 88,871 members that connects cake bakers with people who want to buy cakes. Their group description reads: Cake, Bread & supplies. Everything concerning baking . Let the consumer, supplier and producer meet. We combine our point of view. The voices will be heard. Aine highlights the groups success as an online marketplace, but also its role as a forum for raising money for different causes. She describes the groups recent campaign to raise 100 million shillings ($25,874) to buy an ambulance for a mental health institute in the suburbs of Kampala. Within a month, they had collected 10 million shillings ($2,587) via Mobile Money donations. The Facebook group that brought together members to contribute to a cause is no longer going to be able to do that because one has to factor in the tax before engaging in such a drive, she writes. And the truth is, it makes it expensive. Cake Shop Uganda is still active they recently held a drive to deliver six cakes and groceries to a childrens home in Kisenyi but their tools for raising and donating money are no longer free. Aine is keeping her fingers crossed that the tax gets repealed. Shes closely following a petition that just went to court to strike down the tax on a constitutional basis. The internet has given us all a voice, she says. Its only fair that we avail it to everyone at no extra cost or charge. The Lawyer and the Laws As one of the five signatories to the petition, 27-year-old lawyer Silver Kayondo is aware that all eyes are on him. People look up to me for leadership that I must provide, he says. Then he chuckles. Yet I have no title. Kayondo has joined forces with a cyber law non-profit to sue the government of Uganda over the social media tax. We attacked the Uganda Revenue Authority because we are seeking a restraining order against collection of the tax by the revenue body, says Kayondo. But we also want the regulators to enact regulations (UCC) that are compliant with Net Neutrality. No more OTT sites and internet blockages and throttling. Right now Kayondo is trying to raise funds for the lawsuit, which the petitioners are paying for out of pocket. I have joined friends at CyberLine to file a case against the government of #Uganda challenging tax on #OTTs eg #socialmedia platforms. In my Affidavit, I contend that the tax offends the principles of #NetNeutrality & Open #internet. We must protect Ugandan e-commerce businesses Silver Kayondo (@SilverKayondo) June 29, 2018 I dont think tech should be a luxury for the few who can afford, says Kayondo. Mobile phones were introduced [when] I was about 8 years old. Ive seen how tech has transformed life, Ive seen the empowerment. Kayondo grew up in a small town in the west of Uganda, next to a snow-capped mountain on the Equator. He is unwavering in his assertion that the internet has been a positive force in his life. Hes an avid consumer of foreign media and he uses Mobile Money to send money to his extended relatives a crucial service for many Ugandans who need to send cash to relatives who live far away. Kayondos views on the role of the internet have been shaped by the connections hes been able make in a more connected world, both on and offline. After law school, Kayondo went to grad school in South Africa. He received scholarships to travel to the U.S., where he fell madly in love with Chipotle burritos and tried marshmallows for the first time. Im fully subscribed to the idea of global citizenship, says Kayondo. Im part of a very blessed generation. During our life weve seen all these borders lose meaning. The day before the social media tax was put into effect, youre enjoying WhatsApp, connecting with buddies, sending memes. The next day, the groups were mute. Now, Kayondo is committed to moving Uganda toward a brighter future, which he thinks involved embracing the digital. 2017 data from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) show that 54 percent of the population has connection to the internet. These numbers have been steadily growing, thanks largely to the rise of mobile. But Kayondo fears that the social media tax will slow the growth. Social media in Uganda is sort of what really introduces people to the internet, its the onboarding procedure, he says. Most people know Facebook and WhatsApp, more than research sites. It really gives you that leapfrog effect. The leapfrog effect that Kayondo is referring to is a theory that, by skipping straight to a mobile internet infrastructure, Uganda and other African countries will leapfrog forward into the digital economy, bypassing countries whose innovation is hampered by old technology and monopolistic business models Kayondo is investing in that digital future. He used to make good money at a big law firm, but now hes sinking his life savings into a co-working space that he started with his friends called The Tech Hub. He also co-founded a company called DroneNerds Africa that uses drones to monitor conflicts at refugee camps and enforce environmental regulations. My awesome team at DroneNerds Africa (Uganda) Limited doing a very important project for a top client, using an M100 drone fitted with a 360 degree camera to do assessment for 137 kms of #electricity transmission lines analyzing human, social & environmental risks @UgDrones #uav pic.twitter.com/55GI6P5akg Silver Kayondo (@SilverKayondo) September 29, 2018 Kayondo thinks a lot about how the tech industry in Uganda fits into a global tech economy. Given the lack of venture capital in Uganda, hes eager to court foreign investors. He wants to make sure that Uganda has a forward-thinking tax plan in place so that when foreign companies move in, like he predicts Amazon will, they pay taxes in Uganda. Kayondo is concerned about the precedent that the social media tax will set for companies looking to invest in Uganda. He doesnt see why tech companies like Facebook would want to stick around in a country where the government goes after them. (Facebook has put out a statement that they will continue laying fiber and providing access to Free Basics in Uganda.) But that hasnt stopped Kayondo from leading a call for net neutrality laws, which would kill Facebook Free Basics, a low-bandwidth, Facebook-curated internet that gives people access only to Facebook and a handful of other sites. It has been controversial because it prioritizes certain content, which violates net neutrality law. While debates over net neutrality have raged in the U.S., it hasnt come up as much in countries in which many people benefit from access to Free Basics. But now, the threat of losing free access to Facebook is stirring up momentum for a net neutrality movement. Kayondo doesnt think that Free Basics is worth the risk of not having protection under net neutrality. This tax has shown what can happen when governments or companies have incentives for censoring content. Government officials dont understand the internet, he says. Im trying to steer positive policy, but the government hates me so much, they think Im opposing everything theyre doing. But Im trying to point them in the direction of doing it right. Social Media Goes Local Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook, has made statements that Facebook will always be free. But the truth is, it might not be up to him. The tax in Uganda is yet another example of how governments around the world are trying to reign in the power of global tech companies. By using the words Fake News, Museveni is participating in a global discourse that has turned against the big social media companies in light of their questionable data practices, high-profile scandals, and disinclination to comply with local laws. But while he may be masquerading behind the same concepts that are inspiring data protection regulations in Europe, Australia, Singapore, and elsewhere, his actions are more reminiscent of VPN-blocking legislation in China and Russia. For the people in Uganda living under the tax, theres been an interesting temporal collapse. Some have grown up with access to internet, but many Ugandans have just gotten access to the internet in the last few years. People are experiencing the cyber-utopianism of the dawn of social media at the same time as the current wave of techno-criticism. Its the rise and fall of the Facebook empire, packed into a Cliffs Notes version. Last year, Eng. Godfrey Mutabazi, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), announced plans to launch local versions of social media platforms. Instead of Twitter, youre going to have something local that youre going to use, Mutabazi told URN. As unlikely as it is to imagine that Ugandans will forego a global social network in favor of a Uganda-only version of Facebook, Ill bet that China has some tips. 'Return To View' - Scott Stouffer reflects on early days of his daughter's search news A sample of what a text alert from Trump could potentially look like. Photo: FEMA At 2:18 p.m. on Wednesday, the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System sent a test alert to nearly every cell phone in the United States. The only difference between the Amber Alerts and the flood-watch notifications that you already get on your phone was the capitalized PRESIDENTIAL ALERT splashed across the top. When it arrived at my office, right on time, it was accompanied by a background roar of alert noises, vibrating phones, and soft exclamations from my co-workers. And then everyone got back to work. In the weeks leading up to the message, the test alert was proclaimed a text from Trump, inspiring some click-friendly hand-wringing about the president now having the ability to contact every citizen with a cell phone in their pocket at his whim a terrifying example of our looming dystopia. But whats looming, exactly? The thing is, thats already how the world worked at 2:17 p.m. on Wednesday. Its how the world worked at 2:16 p.m. on Wednesday. Its how the world has worked for the entirety of the Trump presidency. If the man wants to reach you, he can. In the notification center on my iPhone, todays alert slotted in right above a push notification from the New York Times informing me of the forthcoming alert and instructing me not to panic upon receipt. Six minutes after the alert, I got a push notification from CNN informing me the test had occurred and offering answers to the FAQs about the alert. No, Trump didnt write it, the notification teases. Those are the same kinds of notifications news outlets left, right, and center send out anytime President Trump does, well, almost anything. I didnt need the actual alert from Trump, via FEMA, to be alerted to Trumps actions. I follow Trump on Twitter with 54 million other people following @RealDonaldTrump. Twenty-four million people follow him over on the @POTUS account. Chances are good, if youre a person who is the least bit inclined to use your phone as a news-delivery device, Donald Trumps reach already extended into your pocket even before the chorus of beep beep on Wednesday afternoon. Todays alert, if it was any kind of disconcerting, was disconcerting in its normalcy. Of course, in 2018, the president can contact every citizen via the devices where they are most readily accessible. Of course. And as for the people in the United States for whom todays alert truly was the first time the president has accessed them, in some way, through their phones those arent the people making bad jokes till next Tuesday about it on Twitter. (There was only one good joke.) The carefully stage-managed performance by Boris Johnson yesterday was masterminded by the architect of his two victories in the London mayoral elections. Sir Lynton Crosby, who also ran the 2015 Conservative election campaign in which David Cameron won an overall Tory majority for the first time since 1992, has been discreetly advising Johnson since he quit the Cabinet in July. The straight-talking Australian, dubbed the Wizard of Oz after helping John Howard win a record four general elections Down Under, also worked on the Tories disastrous election campaign last year. The carefully stage-managed performance by Boris Johnson yesterday was masterminded by Sir Lynton Crosby Back then, he was sidelined by Mrs Mays key lieutenants, Nick Timothy and Fiona Hill both of whom left No. 10 shortly afterwards. Boris, it seems, has a bit more faith in his old guru. As one supporter put it: Lynton gives blunt, down-to-earth advice. When Boris takes it, things work like clockwork. Joke of the day Johnson congratulated the Chancellor Philip Hammond after he told the Daily Mail he would never be Tory leader... Its the first Treasury forecast in a long time to have a distinct ring of truth. Carrie's priority: clear blue water Carrie Symonds has hardly been seen in public since the former Foreign Secretary confirmed he was getting divorced A conspicuous absentee at this years conference is Carrie Symonds until recently the Conservatives director of communications. The 30-year-old, who has been romantically linked with Boris Johnson, has hardly been seen in public since the former Foreign Secretary confirmed he and his wife of 25 years, Marina Wheeler, were getting a divorce. Symonds, who works for Bloomberg campaigning for cleaner oceans, is in Berbera in Somaliland, where she yesterday tweeted: Pleased to see for myself that the ocean is home to plenty of fish and sea life, but still dismayed to see how much plastic pollution there is here, too. One Tory MP, who is no fan of Mr Johnson, said: She couldnt have picked a place further away from Boris if she tried. sked on LBC how her husband reacted to the humiliation at the hands of EU leaders at the recent Salzburg summit, Theresa May replied: He poured me a very stiff drink. Pass the lozenges! The Prime Ministers team is determined there will be no repetition of last years car-crash conference speech, when she coughed and spluttered through her address after doing nine broadcast interviews the previous day. Yesterday, Mrs May pulled out of interviews on Channel 5 and Channel 4 to preserve her vocal cords. The governments migration revolution, billed as the biggest reform of immigration for decades and announced by Home Secretary Sajid Javid yesterday, is a welcome turning point in what has been a long, long debate. It is a debate in which Migration Watch, which I co-founded in 2001 as a non-political, independent think tank, was the first to raise immigration as a major national issue. Since then we have sometimes been rather a lone voice. Indeed, in the early days we attracted plenty of flak. Immigration under Labour had tripled in just a couple of years from 1997 to 1999. We were determined to bring to public attention the risks of such a lax immigration policy whatever misplaced insinuations of racism might be laid against us. The governments migration revolution, billed as the biggest reform of immigration for decades and announced by Home Secretary Sajid Javid yesterday, is a welcome turning point in what has been a long, long debate, writes Andrew Green Estimating future immigration is more of an art than a science, but we have a remarkable record in doing so accurately. Suspicion In 2002, we estimated that non-EU net migration would run at two million over the next decade. At the time our projections were met with howls of derision, sometimes abuse. The Independent newspaper dismissed Migration Watch as a nasty little outfit and said that our duplicitous research should be treated with the gravest suspicion. The group deserves to fail. The Office for National Statistics later proved us right, estimating that legal non-EU net migration in the period 2002-2011 was 2.1 million. In 2003, we described as almost worthless estimates relied on by the Home Office that there would be between 5,000 and 13,000 arrivals annually from the so-called EU8 countries of Eastern Europe the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia following the enlargement of the EU to include them in 2004. We said instead that 40,000 a year would be a cautious, yet more realistic, estimate. A journalist from the Right-leaning Spectator magazine described our estimate as unreliable. However, in the decade after they joined, net migration from those EU8 countries has averaged 72,000 per year. Theresa May writing her keynote speech at party conference in Birmingham. The Prime Minister is still trying to navigate the successful withdrawal of the UK from the EU In 2013, we estimated that inflows from Romania and Bulgaria would add 50,000 a year to the population. A Channel 4 News Fact Check said: Predictions of a mass influx of immigrants from Bulgaria and Romania have failed to come true. In fact, average net migration from those two countries in the period 2014-16 was 52,000 a year. I believe it may well be the case that the light Migration Watch cast on the likely scale of EU migration explains why immigration was such a key issue in the 2016 EU referendum. This makes it all the more important that the new post-Brexit policy pledged by Sajid Javid is truly effective in reducing the scale of immigration. If not, the credibility of the Government will be in tatters. The policy certainly has some important positives. It marks the end of free movement especially for workers who would not qualify for a high-skilled work permit. From January 2021, we will at last no longer be obliged to accept an unlimited influx of cheap labour labour which has been very good for employers, but which has also been a factor in keeping the wages of British workers almost flat for a decade. Under the planned reforms, there will also be only minor hurdles for those who wish to come and go between Britain and EU countries for tourism, family visits and to study. That is as it should be. The new British immigration system will be based on work permits and, sensibly, will not distinguish between EU and non-EU skilled personnel. Once we have left the EU, its hard to see how any other approach could be justified. Yet, to my mind, there are still shortcomings in the proposed new system. One significant concern is that the skills required to qualify for such a permit will be lowered from degree level as is currently the case for non-EU migrants to the equivalent of A-level. This, of course, will enormously widen the field of migrants allowed to come in. Examples of those who will be permitted include skilled construction workers, chefs, professional bakers, mechanics and office managers and a number of people in hospitality, care and retail jobs. Migration Watch estimates that this reduction in the level of skill required for entry to Britain will open up two million more jobs to overseas applicants. The major change, however, will be the abolition of the cap on work permits. For non-EU workers this has been set for some seven years at an annual level of 20,700 a figure that is actually quite generous. Threshold Indeed, only in the last year or so has the cap been reached which, perhaps inevitably, has led to protests from industry that they cannot find the workers they need. That, presumably, is why it has been abolished. Which means the only condition apart from the A-level skill criterion that work permit applicants will have to meet is a minimum salary threshold of 30,000. The problem with such financial limits is that they can be easily fiddled by less scrupulous employers. If this should occur, it could impact many more jobs in the UK, and it is here that the main risk of the new policy lies. It could trigger a gold rush of employers seeking to recruit overseas workers who could well be cheaper than their British equivalents. The fact is it will be hard for the Conservative government to achieve any significant reduction in immigration before the next general election in 2022. The risk is that it might even be higher if there is indeed an employer gold rush. To go into the next election with net migration at its current rate of around 300,000 a year would be very damaging to them. The country already faces a situation in which, for the last 15 years, immigration has been adding one million to our population every three years roughly the equivalent of Birmingham. Families We are having to build nearly 300 homes a day to house migrants and their families. The public have had enough which is why the Government would do well to proceed with great caution as they implement this new system. Of course, the genuine needs of business must be met. However, some of the claims being bandied about need to be looked at very carefully. Employers speak of the risk of worsening labour shortages as a result of fewer overseas workers being available. But this could and should lead to investment in machinery and equipment in place of people, and this, in turn, should result in higher productivity, boosting it from levels that have been virtually flat for too long. Furthermore, Migration Watch estimates that there are four million people in the UK who either seek work or want to work longer hours. If employers were more flexible some of them could be drawn into the labour force. Some 63 per cent of the general public think immigration has been too high over the last decade, while for Conservative voters it is 84 per cent. The plan for a post-Brexit immigration revolution is a welcome move. But I fear it will not be enough for Britain truly to get a grip on immigration which is leading to a rapid and inexorable increase in our population about which the public are justifiably very angry. French girl style is iconic, embodied in the kind of effortless and chic aesthetic that continues to inspire women from around the world. This week we saw the best of the best on the sidewalks of the City of Lights during the spring/summer 2019 runway shows. Want to add a little je ne sais quoi to your wardrobe? FEMAIL rounds up the most charming boutiques that you can only find in the romantic European city. Contemporary cool: French girl style is iconic, embodied in the kind of effortless and chic aesthetic that continues to inspire women from around the world. Pictured is social media star Paola Alberdi People watching at it's finest: This week we saw the best of the best on the sidewalks of the City of Lights during the spring/summer 2019 runway shows Come: 9 Rue Elzevir, 75003 Paris, France For something really unique, head over to Come. Tucked away along a charming cobblestone road, it will feel as though you've stumbled upon an undiscovered gem. The local boutique is filled with impeccably tailored garments crafted from the most luxurious fabrics. If you like something (and you will!), act fast as pieces are made in limited-quantities and available for a limited-time. Classic designs like silk wrap dresses, satin jackets and t-shirts are always in stock and customizable. Come x Csao jackets (pictured below) are crafted in a small workshop in Paris then sent to Senegal to be hand-embroidered by women of LAtelier des Reves in collaboration with Csao. LAtelier des Reves is an association located in the suburbs of Dakar, which takes young women and children off the street. Choose a word, any word (in any language!) and go home with a spectacular Parisian souvenir made just for you. Good find: For something really unique, head over to Come. Tucked away along a charming cobblestone road, it will feel as though you've stumbled upon an undiscovered gem Handmade embroideries: Timeless pieces like silk wrap dresses, satin jackets and t-shirts are always in stock and can be customized Fashion feels: Come x Csao jackets are crafted in a small workshop in Paris then sent to Senegal to be hand-embroidered by women of LAtelier des Reves. Theo Hand Embroidered Jacket, $532 Le Jardin Retrouve: 7 rue Fourcroy - 75017 Paris, France Family run: The second you step foot into Le Jardin Retrouve you feel the warmth and passion of it's owners, Michel Gutsatz and Clara Feder Crafting scents: With the help of younger perfumer Maxence Moutte (pictured left), Le Jardin Retrouve relaunched seven of Yuri's perfumes The second you step foot into Le Jardin Retrouve you feel the warmth and passion of it's owners, Michel Gutsatz and Clara Feder. Founded in 1975 by Michel's dad, Yuri, the perfumery has always been an original. Going against the norm, Yuri crafted scents inspired by nature, built around the very best essences he sourced worldwide. In 2016, Michel and his wife Clara, decided to revive the business. With the help of younger perfumer Maxence Moutte, they relaunched seven of Yuri's perfumes, including Sandalwood Sacre, Rose Trocadero and Verveine d'Ete. Individual bottles start at around $42 and go up to about $145. Gift sets and a 7 day trial packs are also available. Happy place: Wall art is designed and illustrated by family members Left: Tubereuse Trianon Eau de Parfum, $117.60; lejardinretrouve.com. Right: Rose Trocadero Eau de Parfum, $132; lejardinretrouve.com Jimmy Fairly: 109 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris, France Social impact: Jimmy Fairly is revolutionizing the world of optics by offering a collection of super cool, on trend glasses at an affordable price point, all benefiting a good cause Walking out of Jimmy Fairly without at least one new pair of sunglasses is next to impossible. The French eyewear company is revolutionizing the world of optics by offering a collection of super cool, on trend glasses at an affordable price point (most just over $100), all while benefiting a good cause. By working hand-in-hand with the Restoring Vision association, for every pair bought, Jimmy Fairly gives a pair to someone in need. 'Every generation of entrepreneurs tries to bring their convictions. Today we feel a real need to offer quality glasses while bringing something extra, make sense and have a positive impact,' said Antonin Chartier, President and co-founder of Jimmy Fairly. 'At Jimmy Fairly, we started the Buy One Give One since the first day of creation, it's in our DNA.' Look good and feel even better with some new specs that come in a beautiful box! Line, $128 Left: Equinox, $128. Right: Rosier, $128 Left: Rodin, $192. Right: Copper, $167 The git of giving: By working hand-in-hand with the Restoring Vision association, for every pair bought, Jimmy Fairly gives a pair to someone in need. Each piece of eyewear comes in a beautiful box Niepce Paris Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton: 4 Rue Niepce, 75014 Paris, France Location location: Based in the heart of the artistic district of Montparnasse, Niepce Paris Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton offers guests close proximity to unexpected treasures For a fantastic shopping experience, stay someplace stylish and centrally located. Based in the heart of the artistic district of Montparnasse, Niepce Paris Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton offers guests close proximity to must-see attractions, plus it's just minutes away from the city's train station. The art deco inspired hotel is named after Janine Niepce, one of the most influential French photographers and journalists of the 1970s. Guest rooms, corridors and ceilings are decorated with the renowned artist's famous black and white shots taken during the women's liberation movement. After a long day of shopping, enjoy a bite of French or international cuisine at the one-of-a-kind hotel's restaurant La Verriere Paris, then unwind with a specialty cocktail or a glass of wine at Cafe N Bar. 'Niepce Paris Hotel is a creative treasure, offering authentic experiences combined with the renowned hospitality of Hilton,' said general manager Rozlaine Hakiki. Prepare to swoon...it's not called The City of Love for nothing. Artsy ambiance: The art deco inspired hotel is named after Janine Niepce, one of the most influential French photographers and journalists of the 1970s. Guest rooms, corridors and ceiling displays are decorated with the renowned artist's famous shots A woman whose quest to find her long-lost father has drawn comparisons to hit musical Mamma Mia! is preparing to meet her dad for the first time at the age of 35. Diana Becker, from Hoedspruit in South Africa, first came into contact with her birth mother as a teenager and subsequently discovered that her biological father could be one of three possible men, with her story bearing remarkable similarities to that of Sophie Sheridan in the Abba-inspired show. She has now positively identified her father after tracking him down on Facebook - a retired professional athlete, he lives some 13,000km away in Cumbria - and is planning to fly to the UK for an emotional reunion. Now a mother-of-two herself, Diana, 35, has launched a heartfelt GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the trip after a traumatic search that has lasted several decades. She is hoping to raise the equivalent of 580 to go towards the cost of flights, a UK Visa and travel insurance. The real life Sophie Sheridan! Diana Becker, pictured, has launched a heartfelt GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the trip after a traumatic search that has lasted several decades Diana's biological father is Daniel 'Danny' De Chaumont-Saunderson (pictured in 1987), a former professional athlete. She is planning to fly to the UK to meet him for the first time Loving family: Diana was adopted by an Afrikaans couple, Danie and Elna De Bruin, both 73 (pictured), with whom she remains close to this day The businesswoman, who owns her own hospitality and consulting company, was born on 3 March 1983 but 15 months later, due to unforeseen circumstances, her biological mother - who does not wish to be named - had to give her up. She was adopted by an Afrikaans couple, Danie and Elna De Bruin, both 73, with whom she remains close to this day. Diana and her brother enjoyed a happy childhood but in her teenage years she grew curious about her biological parents. Diana, who is mother to three-year-old Dianne and two-year-old Marnu, said: 'I have been blessed with the best adoptive family any child could have asked for. I grew up in a very loving and caring home along with ma and pa and my older brother. 'My parents have given me everything anyone could ever dream of and they never kept the fact from me that I was adopted. 'However, in my teenage years questions about my biological parents started haunting me. Diane's story bears a remarkable similarity to that of Sophie Sheridan in Mamma Mia! (pictured in the 2008 movie adaptation) in her quest to discover which out of three men is her father Now 58, Diana's father lives with his wife and two children in Cockermouth, Cumbria where he relocated to after leaving South African more than 20 years ago. He was 23 years old when he first learned that his wife was pregnant, and Diana subsequently found him on Facebook 'I'm a very curious person and could not let the fact go that somewhere in our universe are a man and a woman who are truly blood related.' 'With the help of my folks and the social workers I located my biological mom just a few weeks before my 18th birthday I was ecstatic. 'We met, we laughed we cried and shared our lives with one another, I was lucky that she actually lived in the same city. 'Unfortunately, this is where the story becomes a bit like the Mamma Mia! movie mentioned earlier. 'I was introduced to a wonderful man whom I still treasure and keep in contact with and was under the impression that he was my biological dad. Danny in his heyday. In a remarkable twist of fate, Diana learned that her long-lost father was a retired athlete and famous runner. He relocated to the UK more than 20 years ago, after winning the London to Brighton when he secretly entered as a French man because of international sanctions on South African athletes After Diana and Danny (pictured) found each other they immediately decided to do paternity tests and spoke on the WhatsApp chats 'almost every single day' while waiting for the results 'However, after a paternity test we learnt that he was actually not related. This didn't stop our friendship but I never stopped thinking about the true identity of my real father. 'It was during this stage that I learnt that at the time of my conception my biological mother had also been dating two other men, but it was unclear if either of them was still alive, or indeed which one was my father. 'Sadly, my biological mother thought that they had both passed away. The thought that I might never be able to know his true identity or meet him in person drove me crazy. 'Eventually, I discovered that one of the men had been a very well-known South African long-distance athlete and I decided I had to at least find a photo, read his obituary anything for my peace of mind and closure. Diana, who is mother to three-year-old Dianne and two-year-old Marnu, said: 'I have been blessed with the best adoptive family any child could have asked for. I grew up in a very loving and caring home along with ma and pa and my older brother' Diana with her husband and two young children. She is hoping to raise enough money to travel the UK where she will have an emotional reunion with the father she has never met 'During my hours of google searches his name finally came up. Daniel (Danny) De Chaumont-Saunderson. But there were no pictures, nothing to go on.' In a remarkable twist of fate, it turned out that Danny was an accomplished athlete who won the London to Brighton road race in 1986. He was banned from international running for ten years while South Africa was under sanctions, and had secretly entered and won as a French man, but was stripped of his title when organisers discovered the truth. Diana added: 'Eventually I found out some amazing news it seemed that, in fact, he was, still alive and living somewhere in the UK. I diverted all my attention to finding him on social media, but all my enquiries led nowhere. 'Defeated and deflated I decided my search was over but in May this year, watching a movie on TV about a man who found his biological parents after years of searching, gave me a boost. Diana was 'defeated and deflated' after discovering her father may be dead. But after watching a film she was inspired to renew her search, and ultimately tracked Danny down on Facebook Diana (pictured with her husband) achieved a 'breakthrough' in her search in July this year, after messaging numerous friends on Dan's Facebook page. She is now excited to travel to the UK to meet him for the first time. She said: 'It was truly a blessed moment' 'It motivated me to try a search one last time and finally I discovered him. A closed profile on Facebook with just one photo! 'I drank two glasses of wine and eventually had the courage to write him a message. For weeks I checked four to five times a day to see if the message had delivered but no luck. 'To cut a long story short, after messaging numerous friends of his on Facebook hoping to find an email address or contact detail, finally on the 24th July 2018 breakthrough. 'I got his email address and that very same night we started corresponding. It was truly a blessed moment. 'We immediately decided to do paternity tests and spoke on the WhatsApp chats almost every single day while waiting for the results. I have not experienced such stress in a long time. Speaking about her journey to finding her father, Diana said: 'This is truly the best feeling ever and I would like to give hope to all the adopted people out there searching for answers and closure' 'However, eventually, two weeks ago the results came back and finally revealed what I had dreamed of all these years, that we are indeed father and daughter. 'This moment was better than winning the lotto. I am now busy saving for the trip of a lifetime to finally meet Daniel in person and surprise him in his home town. 'It turns out he now lives in Cockermouth in Cumbria and so I'm now planning a trip and hoping to fly over to meet him this year. 'This is truly the best feeling ever and I would like to give hope to all the adopted people out there searching for answers and closure.' Danny now lives with his wife and two children in Cockermouth, Cumbria where he relocated after leaving South Africa more than 20 years ago. He was 23 years old when he first learned that his wife was pregnant, and is now 58. The OECD Observer online archive takes you on a journey through half a century of public policy and world progress. Since November 1962, the OECDs experts and leading guests offer insights on the questions facing our member countries with concise and authoritative analysis, and provide our audiences with an excellent opportunity to understand policy debates and consider solutions. Each edition of the OECD Observer reports on a core theme of the OECDs on-going work, from economics and society through governance, finance, and the environment, and articles are bolstered by tables and graphs. A rising British stage star will play the title role in Diana: The Musical, it has been announced. Jeanna de Waal, 30, said it is a 'huge privilege' to portray the princess in the musical retelling of her life. The actress, a graduate of the renowned Tring School for Performing Arts and the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, remains a relative unknown despite a handful of roles in high profile musicals including Wicked, Kinky Boots and American Idiot. But she will find herself thrust into the spotlight when the hotly-anticipated musical premieres at La Jolla Playhouse in La Jolla, California, in February. Breakout role: British actress Jeanna de Waal, 30, right, said it is a 'huge privilege' to portray Diana in the musical retelling of her life. de Waal looks strikingly similar to Diana in a trailer for the musical, pictured. The show premieres at La Jolla Playhouse, La Jolla, California, next year Industry insiders expect Diana will later transfer to Broadway as producers look to cash in on the royal fever gripping the US. Speaking in a video interview published on the theatre's YouTube channel, de Wall said: 'To bring Diana to life onstage is obviously a huge privilege. 'I feel very daunted by the prospect, but I hope people who didnt know about her and werent aware of her journey leave the theater with an idea of what she did for the world. 'She made everyone feel special, from the highest person to the lowest-ranking person, and I think we want to celebrate her.' Strikingly similar: Costume designers will draw on Diana's signature style to create pieces for de Waal to wear on stage. Pictured, the princess with First Lady Barbara Bush in July 1991 The clip shows de Waal channeling the princess in a white blazer with large black buttons, even adopting her signature pose of looking up through her eyelashes. The musical, directed by Tony award-winner Christopher Ashley, will focus on the story of the princess' marriage to Prince Charles, and will feature appearances by the Duchess of Cornwall and the Queen, as well as other key figures in the royal circle. Speaking to the New York Post last year, playwright Joe DiPietro revealed at the end of the first act, Diana has a solo called 'A Pretty Girl in a Pretty Dress' that captures the moment she can 'turn the tables' on the Palace. Cast of characters: The musical will feature appearances by Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall (pictured together earlier this month) and the Queen He also promised the team would not 'skimp' if the show did make it to Broadway, adding: 'This is a woman who used style and fashion to gain power.' A description on the theatre's website reads: 'In 1981, an assistant kindergarten teacher married the Prince of Wales and, overnight, became the most famous woman in the world. 'But behind the fairytale, there was a troubled marriage and a young woman struggling to find her voice. The world premiere of the play will be held at La Jolla Playhouse, California, in February. Theatre insiders predict the musical will later transfer to Broadway 'Facing an entrenched monarchy and unprecedented media scrutiny, Princess Diana surprises everyone including herself as she grows into a global phenomenon and manages to change the world.' It adds the score will be 'sweeping and contemporary'. The play marks the third collaboration between DiPietro and Bon Jovi keyboard and composer David Bryan. It was read at the Powerhouse Theater at Vassar College in July of last year, with de Waal in the role of Diana. Vivienne Westwood made a statement in a bizarre satin dress as she joined her husband Andreas Kronthaler at an event honouring Chelsea Manning this evening. Fashion designer Vivienne, 77, wore a coral number featuring a pair of cartoon breasts and an arrow pointing down from her neck along the centre. She finished off the eccentric look with a floral patterned cardigan, a pair of brown pointed-toe boots and a badge that declared 'I love c**p'. Andreas, 52, wore a slightly less outlandish outfit featuring a teal blazer, a striped shirt with a floral vest, and a patterned cravat. Vivienne Westwood, 77, joined her husband, Andreas Kronthaler, at the Institute of Contemporary Arts dinner in honour of Chelsea Manning this evening Fashion designer Vivienne wore this bizarre coral dress featuring a pair of cartoon breasts and an arrow pointing down the centre The stylish couple were attending the Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) dinner at the Royal Institution in Mayfair, London. The annual event for the friends of the ICA was in honour of the US intelligence worker who was jailed for leaking thousands of documents to Wikileaks. Earlier today Chelsea Manning, 30, made her first public appearance in the UK since her release from prison. She served seven years of a 35-year sentence before being released by Barack Obama in his final few days in office. In an interview with Channel 4 today, she told of her 'struggle' after being jailed for 35 years, and her transition to becoming a woman. Pctured: Andrea, Chelsea, Vivienne, and Stefan Kalmar at the event at the Royal Institution in Mayfair, London, this evening Andreas planted a kiss on his wife, left, as they posed for photos at the event at the Royal Institution in Mayfair, London. The couple attended Paris for fashion week last weekend She said: 'It really has been for me more of a struggle for survival, that was what those seven years were. 'Especially as a trans person in prison and as somebody who, you know, I see what's happening and I want to do something about it. 'It was probably having to fight every single day for just basic necessities like health care or I fought for hormones, I fought for surgery.' Chelsea was pictured alongside Vivienne and Andreas at the event this evening. Vivienne was also supported by her son Joe Corre, who co-founded Agent Provocateur, at the event this evening. The pair posed for a charming photo at the Royal Institution in Mayfair ICAs new Director Stefan Kalmar said: 'Honouring Chelsea Manning in todays media and political landscape will, I hope, show that the power of an individual can change the world through bravery, courage, determination and vision. 'We could not be happier to welcome Chelsea to London and to the Institute of Contemporary Arts. Vivienne and her husband were in Paris over the weekend for fashion week, where Andreas shared his designs for Spring/Summer 2019 on models riding skateboards and scooters. Andreas, who married Vivienne in 1992, took over the creative reins some years ago. Dame Anna Wintour is one of the most powerful women in fashion and has the ability to make or break careers. Fortunately for these designers, the Vogue editor-in-chief picked them out as being among the best at Milan Fashion Week. Speaking in an interview for the Vogue YouTube channel, Dame Anna, 68, said how the Spring/Summer '19 shows promise a 'fantastic season full of ideas, colours and escapism'. Dame Anna Wintour shared her pick of the best shows from Milan Fashion Week, which wrapped up last week. The Vogue editor-in-chief praised Dolce & Gabbana for championing body diversity on the catwalk. Pictured, Lady Kitty Spencer walked the show last month Dame Anna, 68, pictured in Paris today, said how the Spring/Summer '19 shows promise a 'fantastic season full of ideas, colours and escapism'. She identified a handful of designers as standouts, including legacy houses like Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and Giorgio Armani She identified a handful of designers as standouts, including legacy houses like Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and Giorgio Armani, alongside lesser-talked-about labels like Etro, Missoni and Marni. The magazine editor also explained the collections suggest fashion will continue to move away from less 'obviously' sexy cuts and designs. 'The idea of anything that's overly sexy or overly clingy or overly 'look at me' has simply gone out the window,' she said. A particular highlight was Versace's celebratory show which saw an all-star cast of models strut their stuff in vibrant designs bursting with retro influences. Dame Anna noted Prada sent models down the catwalk in opposing styles - one conservative, the other young and free - that was intended to speak to the political division around the world 'Donatella [Versace] never ceases to surprise and amaze us,' Dame Anna said. 'The collection was perfect. There was so much colour and print and a slight gypsy feel... It was absolutely a total joy to watch.' She praised Dolce & Gabbana for championing diversity on their catwalk, where Italian actress Isabella Rossellini joined the likes of model Ashley Graham and society beauties Lady Kitty Spencer and Viscountess Weymouth. Dame Anna pointed out that Marni also cast women 'of different sizes and different proportions'. The industry powerhouse added several designers appeared to be offering-up a sense of fun and fancy free at a time dominated by political division and unrest. A particular highlight was Versace's show which saw an all-star cast of models strut their stuff in vibrant designs bursting with retro influences. Pictured, Gigi Hadid on the catwalk The fashion heavyweight told how Etro and Missoni 'really captured the mood of the moment'. Pictured, Kendall Jenner on the catwalk for the Italian designer last month 'Etro and Missoni really captured the mood of the moment,' she said. 'They were very happy, very joyous and very retro.' Meanwhile Miuccia Prada, 69, sent models down the catwalk in two opposing styles. 'Prada was divided between a sense of conservative dressing and something that was much more free and open and young and again Californian,' Dame Anna explained. 'Speaking to Miuccia a little bit earlier it seemed to me that what she was trying to talk about in the show was the division that she's seeing politically, that we're all seeing... 'Something that's very free and very democratic and very open and something that's coming up against a mood that's far more rigid.' Fashion month continues in Paris this week. Viewers of royal documentary Queen of the World were left frustrated when footage of the Duchess of Sussex was repeated in Tuesday night's episode. The first episode in the two-part series, which premiered last week, saw Meghan, 37, being reunited with her wedding dress and veil in a highly-publicised clip. However royal fans were left confused when part of the footage was rebroadcast in Tuesday night's programme, with several commenting that it was a 'waste of time'. The first episode of Queen of the World, which premiered last week, saw Meghan, 37, being reunited with her wedding dress and veil, pictured. However royal fans were left confused when part of the footage was rebroadcast in Tuesday night's programme Frustrated viewers said they were 'bored' of the clip and called on the producers to feature more of the Queen instead One tweeted: 'I just changed channel and Megan appeared with that bloody wedding dress!!! AGAIN.' Another added: 'A year of exclusive access to the Queen and all we are seeing are the same clips over and over again. Poor editing.' A third posted: 'Now I do love a Royal Documentary-but whoever made this one needs sacking. 'How many times must they show HRH Duchess of Sussex looking at her wedding dress & tell us how all 53 commonwealth countries are embroidered in the veil. Terrible editing so much repetition.' The Duchess revealed she wanted the national flowers of all 53 Commonwealth nations embroidered into her veil. She saw the stunning hand creation laid out for the first time in last week's episode, pictured, and some of the footage was rebroadcast on last night's show Royal fans hoping for more insight into the workings of the family said it was 'disappointed' that more new content was not featured instead of the repeated Meghan clip In the clip, Meghan discusses her decision to pay tribute to the Commonwealth by having the flowers of all 53 nations hand embroidered into her delicate wedding veil. She is seen carefully admiring the stunning piece as she picks out some of her favourite blooms, including the national flower of Canada, where she lived for years while filming US legal drama Suits. The scene was used as a way to bring the popular duchess into the documentary, which focuses on the Queen and the role she plays within the Commonwealth. The episode also saw the Queen show off her easy-going nature when she hosted a group of young Commonwealth leaders at Buckingham Palace in a scene filmed for the documentary The episode featured interviews with Prince Charles, who discusses what he believes to be the meaning of duty. It also heard from other members of the royal family including Princess Anne and Sophie, Countess of Wessex, who describe how moving it is to visit Commonwealth war graves. Charles was this year named as his mother the Queen's successor as the next leader of the Commonwealth. Queen of the World examins the monarch's role as Head of the Commonwealth and sees her attending the Commonwealth Summit in London earlier this year. Pictured: The monarch meets a Head of State at the event in a scene that will air in tonight's episode Reflecting on his role, he says: 'People don't always understand about the concept of duty. 'I think a lot of the time you have to be brought up to understand what it actually means. 'Minding about other people, minding about what happens in this country and the Commonwealth, and that's the only way, all the masses of people who need to be encouraged and thanked.' With summer right around the corner, women across Australia are bracing themselves for the annual swimwear shopping trip and the accompanying hit to their bank account. But this year, it seems there may be a range of bikinis that go easy on your finances without compromising on style. Australian fashion retailer Cotton On Body recently launched a new swim campaign showcased by a diverse range of models in all shapes and sizes. The collection includes a variety of reasonably priced beach wear including bikinis starting from $14.95 and chic one pieces from $29.95. Australian fashion retailer Cotton On Body recently launched a new swim campaign showcased by a diverse range of models in all shapes and sizes The collection includes a variety of reasonably priced beach wear, including the Luna Button Up Scoop Top for $34.95 and matching Tilly Cheeky Bikini Bottoms for $29.95 (pictured) Cotton On Body have used on-trend textured and ribbed detail throughout the range, incorporating of the moment colours like pastel yellows and lilacs as well as figure flattering vertical stripes which compliment all body types. Pieces from the collection have been seen on a bevy of social media influencers, who have rocked the styles across Australia and to far flung destinations like Goreme, Turkey and picture perfect Positano in Italy. The summer campaign has been launched in aid of Lombok's earthquake relief fund and promoting tourism throughout the Bali region in the wake of recent consecutive natural disasters. The Poppy and Paige Rib High Waisted set (left) retails at $45.90 in total, while the Summer twin set (right) in playful pastel yellow costs just $14.95 for the bikini top and $19.95 for the tie-side bottoms Textured knits feature prominently throughout the campaign, shown here in the Celeste Ring Triangle bikini ($34.95) and matching Josie Ring bottoms ($29.95) Cotton On Body have received an overwhelmingly positive response from social users who heaped praise on the label for making all the right waves with their latest offering. 'Loving your bikinis and most of all your prices!' one satisfied customer wrote. 'These are gorgeous; thank you Cotton On Body for choosing such a diverse range of models for your campaign, they are all beautiful,' another said, finishing her comment with a slew of loving emoji's. This on-trend polka dot two piece is priced at $39.90 in total, and comes in lemon, burnt orange, coral and nautical navy The Horizon bikini top ($29.95) is perfect for women who require support, while the Selena Seamless Briefs ($22.95) flatter every body shape (left); the Flo Double Strap One Piece comes in five different colour ways and retails for $29.95 (right) Others commended the brand for showing 'real women' in their new range. 'I especially love all your photo shoots with real size, real women keep them coming! 'Cotton On are delivering the goods!' Australians often approach most situations in a relaxed and friendly manner. But two etiquette experts have revealed our casual every day mannerisms could actually be considered 'rude' overseas. The director of the Australian School of Etiquette, Zarife Hardy, told Domain that there are variety of things people do that set them apart from other countries. This is particularly surrounding the way we eat our food around the dining table. According to director of the Australian School of Etiquette, Zarife Hardy, Australians tend to be less interested in etiquette than other countries 'We don't burp, belch or spit in front of others, which may be considered normal in some cultures,' Ms Hardy said. According to Huffington Post, if you burp after a meal in China it indicates that you enjoyed your meal, and it is the same case for making slurping noises in Japan. The way Australian people greet each other is also 'distinctly Australian'. While European countries greet people and say goodbye with kisses on the cheek, this isn't common place here. Although barbecues are a common form of entertaining here, it isn't elsewhere 'It is OK to simply offer a handshake, particularly when meeting someone for the first time. In a social setting, or once you get to know each other better, a peck on the cheek becomes acceptable between members of the opposite sex,' Ms Hardy said. Although shaking hands is common in Australia, the act can be considered 'rude' in other countries. According to Mental Floss, people in Russia only shake hands if it's a business situation and don't shake the hand of the opposite sex. Australian's regularly greet each other with a handshake but this isn't commonplace in other countries 'Traditional circles consider it impolite, since a man should kiss a woman's hand,' they said. It is also considered impolite in Thailand to shake the hand of someone as people instead place their palms together at chest level and bow.' Comparatively Anna Musson, etiquette expert at The Good Manners Company, told Domain that there isn't a difference between how Australians interact at home in comparison to those overseas. Etiquette expert Anna Musson said Australians have adopted bad habits that don't make for good manners overseas Nevertheless she did say that Australians have adopted bad habits that don't make for good manners overseas. 'For example, turning up to an invitation in thongs is a no-no, or being the last to leave and not offering to help clean up,' she said. Another thing Ms Musson said people should stop doing is not noticing cues to leave, as she said people should never stay longer than four hours for dinner. For many women, the mere thought of baring their midriffs for the duration of the lengthy Australian summer is enough to send us scurrying into hibernation. Womenswear designer Nancy Ganz recognised this fear, and teamed up with budget retailer BIG W to create the must-have of the summer season which is slated to sell-out long before the warm weather hits. Enter: The Acapulco One Piece Swimsuit, which retails for a very reasonable $39. The Acapulco Swimsuit retails for $39 and is made with built-in shape wear for full control Described as a retro inspired 1950's style costume, the swimsuit has been modernised with contemporary sophistication while retaining a classic fit. The garment is suitable for the vast majority of body shapes, flattering a wide range of figures with its feminine lines and tummy-shielding design. Nancy Ganz ensured the all-in-one was made with targeted power mesh lining across the front which provides firm, unwavering control all day long. The Acapulco comes in three colour ways, black, teal (pictured) and floral print 'The ruching across the tummy combined with the fabric technology will offer fabulous tummy control and help smooth any unwanted lines for a flattering fit' - stylist Donny Galello The Acapulco comes in three colour ways, black, teal and floral print. Celebrity stylist Donny Galella spoke to Kidspot about how perfect the Acapulco is for mothers. 'The ruching across the tummy combined with the fabric technology will offer fabulous tummy control and help smooth any unwanted lines for a flattering fit,' he said. 'It's a complete bargain for $39, given it's such great quality shape wear swimwear.' The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are busy preparing for their Australian tour in less than two weeks time - but it seems that they are not the only royals heading Down Under. Princess Diana's niece, and Prince Harry's cousin Lady Kitty Spencer has announced that she will be visiting the country at the same time as the couple. Taking to Instagram the model and D&G muse announced that she would be heading to Perth for a charity fundraiser on October 21. Lady Kitty Spencer (pictured with the Fat Cat mascot) announced on Instagram that she would visiting Australia for a television fundraiser - coincidentally the same as her cousin Prince Harry will be in the country with wife Meghan Kitty wrote on her account that she will visit Perth for the 26-hour live television event Telethon 7 on October 21 Sharing a photo of herself posing with the 'Fat Cat mascot' She wrote: 'Theres a new kitty in town! Fat Cat is the adorable mascot for @telethon7, the television fundraiser helping sick children across the globe. 'In October, Ill be joining him in Perth, Western Australia for this extraordinary 26-hour live television charity event. 'Thank you to Stage and Screen Australia for flying me to Perth to help change the lives of children.' But while the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will be in the same country it is unlikely that the couple will have a chance to meet up with Kitty as they will be in Sydney during her time in Perth. Pictured: Harry and Meghan at the Southbank Centre in July The 27-year-old is also expected to host a tea party in aid of the event at the Parmelia Hilton hotel. However, while they may be in the same country, it is unlikely that cousins Kitty and Harry will have a chance to meet up. Harry and Meghan's whirlwind tour Tuesday October 16: Sydney, Australia Wednesday October 17: Dubbo, Australia Thursday October 18: Melbourne, Australia Friday October 19: Sydney, Australia Saturday October 20: Sydney, Australia Sunday October 21: Sydney, Australia Monday October 22: Fraser Island, Australia Tuesday October 23: Suva, Fiji Wednesday October 24: Suva, Fiji Thursday October 25: Nadi, Fiji and Nukualofa, Tonga Friday October 26: Nukualofa, Tonga and Sydney, Australia Saturday October 27: Sydney, Australia Sunday October 28: Wellington, New Zealand Monday October 29: Wellington and Abel Tasman, New Zealand Tuesday October 30: Auckland, New Zealand Wednesday October 31: Rotorua, New Zealand Advertisement While Kitty is in Perth, Harry and Meghan will be enjoying their final day in Sydney after spending three days in the capital before moving on to Fraser Island. The couple will fly to Australia on October 16, for a tour down under lasting two weeks. On Tuesday October 23 Prince Harry and Meghan will head to Fiji for two days and then on to Tonga before returning to Australia. On Sunday October 28 they will cross the Tasman Sea to New Zealand, visiting Wellington, the Abel Tasman National Park, Auckland and Rotorua before heading home on Wednesday October 31. The palace said in a short statement: 'Their Royal Highnesses have been invited to visit the Commonwealth Realms of Australia and New Zealand by the countries' respective governments. 'The Duke and Duchess will visit Fiji and Tonga at the request of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. 'The programme across these four Commonwealth countries will focus on youth leadership, environmental and conservation efforts, including the dedication of several new Queen's Commonwealth Canopy projects, and the recovery and rehabilitation of servicemen and women through the Invictus Games Sydney 2018.' The Invictus Games was first held in London in 2014. After Sydney, the next event is set to be held in the Netherlands in May 2020. David Beckham is expected to join Harry and Meghan in Australia after becoming an ambassador for the event. A furious wedding guest has slammed a bride for demanding 'nice' presents - despite getting married abroad in an exotic location. Mumsnet user 'Brownieb' took to the British parenting website to ask other parents for advice on whether she should buy a gift, revealing she will already have to fork out 1,000 for flights and accommodation for the two-week extravaganza. Explaining the wedding means her family will not be able to afford to go away again that year, the angry mother admitted she felt 'forced' to attend as it was a family do. And users quickly sympathised with the woman, with the majority arguing her presence alone should be enough of a gift. A furious wedding guest has taken to Mumsnet to slam the bride for demanding 'nice' presents - despite getting married in an exotic location which will cost attendees 1000 and take up two weeks of their annual leave Explaining that the wedding means that her family will not be able to afford to go away again that year, the angry mother admitted she felt 'forced' to attend as it was a family wedding Explaining her dilemma on the site, she wrote: 'We are going to a wedding abroad next year and it has been hinted we are expected to buy a "nice" wedding present - I feel that we shouldn't have to. 'Mainly I think this because the couple have chosen to go abroad, they have chosen a very expensive time of the year, we have a young child and the destination will be too hot for them to go outside in the day for any length of time.' She added: 'We don't want to go to this country for our holiday anyway because it's just somewhere you lay by the pool. 'Now we can't afford a holiday of our own because this wedding will cost over 1000 just for flights and accommodation, that's after find our own cheaper option. We have no annual leave left after this (two week!) wedding either. Users quickly sympathised with the woman, with the majority arguing that her presence alone should be enough of a gift and she shouldn't go to the wedding at all The mother concluded: 'The couple haven't paid for anything for their own wedding and then got angry we didn't want to pay to stay on their resort as they wanted the 'free gifts' available if you get enough guests.' And angry users quickly expressed their sympathy for the mother, with many arguing that she shouldn't attend the wedding at all. One wrote: 'I'd say that attending is is lieu of a wedding present as you've gone above and beyond to attend anyway (presumably they know what you've told us?). You've already upset them, so a bit more upset won't hurt.' Another suggested giving them a card, while some even argued that she should not attend and buy her a generous gift instead. 'I honestly wouldn't go,' one wrote. 'I'd buy them a very 'nice' present, and set it against the cost of the ridiculous holiday summons. They can hardly complain about you not going to the wedding if you've given them a generous gift.' 'You received an invitation to attend a wedding, not a subpoena,' one user argued on Mumsnet, after the guest revealed her dilemna over whether to buy a gift Another agreed, writing: 'Don't go to the wedding. If the couple are angry that you're not staying at the same resort, rather than pleased you're going at all, it makes me wonder whether invitations were sent out to bump up their numbers. 'You received an invitation to attend a wedding, not a subpoena.' Suggesting she use the money for her own family holiday, another said: 'Don't go if you're getting judged for all the added extras you aren't participating in then they may as well dislike you for not attending at all. Save yourself a grand and go do something nice that you want to do.' Meanwhile one sassy user said: 'Write in the card 'our presence is your present' with loads of glitter sprinkled in the envelope'. Others recited their own experiences, with one explaining that she didn't buy presents when attending a recent wedding abroad. Many suggested the mother simply by a card or don't go to the wedding at all, in a lively discussion over wedding etiquette 'I've been to two abroad wedding- one in India another very expensive. We didn't buy presents as it was so expensive to get there'. And a bride who had exchanged vows abroad herself said: 'You don't have to go to the wedding. I had mine abroad and explained it was entirely optional. I would have been annoyed if anyone who did go complained about the price/ location as it was their own choice to go. Honestly don't go! She added: 'Incidentally we got a few lovely gifts but about half our guests didn't gift anything but did give a card. That seems normal for weddings abroad.' However one user argued that she couldn't attend a wedding without giving a present, writing: 'You can't turn up with nothing. That's just weird. You're obviously begrudging going so I wouldn't bother if I was you.' The days of asking your dad to drop you off around the corner from school may be well and truly behind us. But parents still have a knack for being an embarrassment to grown-up children, as shown in a hilarious Twitter thread of gaffes posted in family WhatsApp chats. One user was baffled when her mother posted an array of blurry images of her dog wearing a wig, while an alarmed woman revealed an 'emergency' turned out to be pictures of her nephew throwing storage boxes around the kitchen. One red-faced woman revealed her father had posted a very awkward lesson about condoms. Elsewhere another father posted a picture of the 'beautiful flower vase' he found in his daughter's room, unaware it was in fact a water pipe, in a collection of hilarious posts. Pesky parents! Rena Min, from Chicago, revealed her father had posted a very awkward lesson about condoms, in a collection of hilariously embarrassing family group Whatsapp snaps shared to Twitter Madeline Sneed, from Ohio, was baffled when her mother posted an array of blurry images of her dog wearing a wig to the family Whatsapp chat, in an array of hilarious exchanges When American Ash took to the group Whatsapp to query who had stolen her KitKat bar, she found one had been left out the next day with a note written 'by the chocolate' -claiming he had 'escaped his wrapper the previous day' Elsewhere Nikki from Massachusetts revealed her father posted a picture of the 'beautiful flower vase' he found in his daughter's room, unaware it was in fact a water pipe, in a collection of hilarious posts Meanwhile in another hilarious post to the family Whatasapp group exchange thread, Kevin from Ireland woke up to reveal he had sent his parents a half an hour audio clip of him sleeping- with his mother claiming he sounded like his dad Katie Wessel, from Vancouver, revealed an 'emergency' turned out to be pictures of her nephew throwing stuff around the kitchen, in a collection of hilariously embarrassing family group Whatsapp snaps shared to Twitter Meanwhile Katelynn from Utah and Eve Harris from Scotland revealed how their mothers lured them home early with conversations of dinner- but one admitted she was slightly confused as she hadn't lived at home for three years Emmalyn from Ohio admitted her family's group chat existed purely for her dog, in a collection of hilariously embarrassing family group Whatsapp snaps shared to Twitter Meanwhile when a sibling shared a snap of their incredible view, Santi Gonzalez from San Francisco replied with a picture of a toilet door- much to his mother's bemusement Kenna Shirer from California revealed their family group chat consisted of winding each other up, with his joke about a chef who 'pasta way' causing much alarm with his mother Posting to the collection of weird family group chats, one user by the name of Mochi Ruu from Missouri revealed their frustration about not understanding what their Japanese family were talking about Elsewhere one tweeter from Pakistan by the name of Wafa showed a snap of her mother getting jealous when their father posted a sentimental quote to the family Whatsapp group Continuing the trend pets reigning supreme over family group chats, Garrett Delph from Virginia shared a snap his father had sent through of their dog snuggling with a stray cat Advertisement She delighted fans last month with the news that Goop was coming to UK shores for the first time. Now shoppers have offered a glimpse inside Gwyneth Paltrow's sprawling lifestyle and wellness emporium, located in London's leafy Notting Hill - complete with rose quartz water bottles and 'chakra-healing' crystals. Stocked floor-to-ceiling with skincare, homeware, health supplements, clothing and accessories - including a 3,600 diamond ear cuff and a 123 'vibrator necklace' - the pop-up shop is already proving a hit with fans. Shoppers have been flocking to the capital to explore the Westbourne Grove boutique, despite the eye-watering price tags and the fact that the lifestyle guru is yet to make an appearance in store. However one disappointed fan left empty-handed after failing to procure one of Paltrow's infamous 65 Jade Quartz eggs designed to be used internally to 'increase sexual energy' writing: 'Went for a vagina egg, came out with nothing.' Gwyneth Paltrow last week unveiled her first ever UK Goop store (pictured. Located on west London's Westbourne Grove, the sprawling lifestyle and wellness emporium is home to rose quartz water bottles and 'chakra-healing' crystals Gwyneth's new store is stocked floor-to-ceiling with skincare, homeware, health supplements, clothing and accessories - including a 3,600 diamond ear cuff (left) and a 123.37 'vibrator necklace' One shopper offers a glimpse of the new Goop store. Stocked with skincare, fragrance, clothing, homeware and supplements - including a 3,600 diamond constellation ear cuff, 'vibrator necklace' - the pop-up shop is already proving a hit with fans Lifestyle empire: Gwyneth (pictured in June) delighted fans with the news that Goop was coming to UK shores Set over two floors overlooking a leafy courtyard, the store is decked out in plush velvet - with rustic details like woodchip walls and shelves adding a touch of hipster pop-up. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a strategically-placed chaise longue lend the space a decidedly decadent feel, while shoppers can snap up items including a crystal-imbued water bottle to give your drinking water some 'positive energy'. There appears to be plenty of homeware on offer too, from marble fruit bowls to wine decanters, vases, candlesticks and pestles and mortars. Gwyneth, 45, first launched Goop in 2008 as a weekly newsletter offering fans her lifestyle recommendations including her favourite recipes, products, and health and fitness tips. Now, as it celebrates its tenth birthday, the company is a huge empire worth a staggering $250 million (192 million), the New York Times reported in July. However, Goop has received its fair share of criticism, with the company agreeing to pay out over misleading health claims earlier this month. The company reached a $145,000 (112,000) settlement over products including Goops Jade Egg and Rose Quartz Egg - intended to be placed into the vagina to improve health. Homeware items on sale in Goop's first London store. Shoppers have already flocked to the capital to explore the Westbourne Grove boutique, despite the eye-watering price tags and the fact that the lifestyle guru is yet to make an appearance in store Goop branded water bottles. One fan left empty-handed after failing to procure one of Paltrow's infamous 65 Jade Quartz eggs designed to be used internally to 'increase sexual energy' writing: 'Went for a vagina egg, came out with nothing' The dove grey facade of Goop's first London store. Set over two floors overlooking a leafy courtyard, the store is decked out in plush velvet - with rustic details like woodchip walls and shelves adding a touch of hipster pop-up Beauty products and a large mirror are helping Gwyneth win new fans. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a strategically-placed chaise longue lend the space a decadent feel, while shoppers can snap up items including a crystal-imbued water bottle. Instagram user Rachflynn style warned her followers to 'expect gorgeous, break-the-bank' clothing and skincare Writing under @girlaboutworld, Instagrammer Anca Enica tried out Goop's 'facial in a jar', made from alpha and beta hydroxy acids (left). She also snapped up a bottle of Miranda Kerr's Noni body oil during her trip to the pop-up store Glass cabinets stocked with skincare and beauty products take pride of place on the mezzanine level. There appears to be plenty of homeware on offer too, from marble fruit bowls to wine decanters, vases, candlesticks and pestles and mortars Marble and gold homeware in Goop's new store. Gwyneth, 45, first launched Goop in 2008 as a weekly newsletter offering fans her lifestyle recommendations including her favourite recipes, products, and health and fitness tips Floor-to-ceiling mirrors and foliage adorn the store entrance. As Goop elebrates its tenth birthday this year, the company is a huge empire worth a staggering $250 million (192 million), the New York Times reported in July Shoppers have been impressed by the clothing on offer in Goop's new store despite the high price tags. However, Goop has received its fair share of criticism, with the company agreeing to pay out over misleading health claims earlier this month A peek inside Goop's clothing area and changing rooms. The company recently reached a $145,000 (112,000) settlement over products including Goops Jade Egg and Rose Quartz Egg - intended to be placed into the vagina to improve health Ms Paltrow's new Goop pop-up store in London. Gwyneth recently raised eyebrows after sharing her list of 'essentials' for a sleep-inducing bedroom last month - which totalled $1,828 (1,370) altogether A chaise longue sits alongside a pretty floral display in the new Goop pop-up store. As the lifestyle brand continues to go from strength to strength, Goop opened its first permanent store in LA in September last year, with recent pop-up shops opening in Dallas, Aspen and Long Island A Goop statement said the settlement acknowledged no liability on the companys part and addressed only advertising, not the products themselves. Gwyneth also raised eyebrows after sharing her list of 'essentials' for a sleep-inducing bedroom last month - which totalled $1,828 (1,370) altogether. Her pricey list of nine products included a $125 water carafe, $295 sheets, and a $725 wall light. As the lifestyle brand continues to go from strength to strength, Goop opened its first permanent store in LA in September last year, with recent pop-up shops opening in Dallas, Aspen and Long Island. Its eponymous UK store will be open until the end of January, Goop said last month. She's known for championing Canadian labels on her royal engagements, but today the Duchess of Sussex missed the chance to showcase British design on her first official visit to the county that inspired her royal title. Harry and Meghan arrived on the south coast this morning for a whistle-stop tour of Sussex, with the former Suits star opting for a cream coat from Italian design house Armani, believed to have cost around 2,000, and a 369 leather skirt by German brand Hugo Boss. She teamed the ensemble with a 69 shirt from & Other Stories, which is part of the Swedish H&M group and carried a 1,685 handbag from trendy New York designer Gabriela Hearst. Along with 160 of accessories from Missoma, her entire ensemble cost 4,383. Celebrity stylist and designer Lucas Armitage told Femail: For Meghans inagural visits to the county her title hails from, I would have expected to see her pay homage to the county and country with her choice of outfit. The Duchess of Sussex wore a coat by Italian design house Armani, a skirt by German favourite Hugo Boss and a shirt from Scandi brand & Other Stories for her first official visit to the county that inspired her name Meghan carried a handbag by trendy New York label Gabriela Hearst. The sold-out Nina bag is currently unavailable and customers wanting to get their hands on one have to sign up to a waiting list 'The Duchess of Cambridge is often spotted in designer that are local to the places she is visiting so it is expected of royals to sartorially select home grown talent from where ever they may visit. 'Meghan's mix of international designers and brands is a chic and appropriate look, but it would have been great to see her in something more fitting of her Sussex link.' The Duchess also carried on her habit of using her handbag to champion an ethical message. New York designer Gabriela Hearst is known for her ethical and sustainable manufacturing standards and the Patsy bag which Meghan carried today was a runaway success. Meghan is surrounded by children waving Union Jack flags as she goes on a walkabout with Prince Harry in Chichester Meghan is wearing a camel Armani coat, a dark green Hugo Boss skirt and shirt from And Other Stories with nude stilettos The widely-sought after bag was a sell out in several colours, showing the brand clearly doesn't need a boost to its fortunes, whereas Meghan could have used the opportunity to champion a British label. Meghan's preference for North American brands has been evident since her wedding to Harry in May 2018. Last month it was reported that out of the 22 outfits she has appeared in since she joined the Royal Family, only two have been by British labels. Meghan hugs a delighted well-wishers as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex go on a walkabout in Chichester today The Duchess of Sussex meets a young child eating an apple as she goes on a walkabout in Chichester this morning Shes mostly to be seen clad in North American designs - usually blue-chip brands including Ralph Lauren, Carolina Herrera and Oscar de la Renta. She has also favoured legendary European fashion houses such as Prada, Dior and Givenchy. It's believed that the influence of her best friend Jessica Mulroney may be the reason for Meghan's loyalty to little-known Canadian labels such as House of Nonie and Judith & Charles, which are closely associated with the Canadian stylist. These brands that were hitherto unknown to the British public are naturally thrilled by the publicity boost. Theresa May was accused of taking time out of important Brexit negotiations to make a cameo in a comedy sketch to mark the 30th anniversary of This Morning. The Prime Minister appeared in the short skit on Wednesday morning, to help out host Phillip Schofield who was stuck in traffic en route to the show's studios - leaving viewers less than impressed. The sketch saw Phillip take a call from co-host Holly Willoughby panicking that he wouldn't make it on time for the big day, so she called in help from a host of celebrity friends - including the PM. Calling from what appeared to be her Downing Street office, Mrs May told Phillip she'd enlisted the help of the Red Devils, as he then promptly sky-dived into the studio. Viewers quickly took to social media to share their surprise as well as complain that she had more pressing matters to deal with. Presenter Phillip Schofield was stuck in traffic and was worried he wouldn't make it into the studio on time for the anniversary special so he enlisted the help of his co-star and a host of celebrity pals Prime Minister Theresa May made a cameo in the comedy sketch on Wednesday's This Morning to mark the 30th celebration of the show being on air Viewers took to Twitter to share their shock at Theresa May's involvement in the comedy skit, insisting that she had more important things she should be doing One viewer took to Twitter to write: 'Just spat my cereal out when Theresa May came on the screen haha!' Another joked: 'Theresa May finds time for her acting debut in sketch to mark 30 years of #ThisMorning.' 'Theresa May can record some "shanter" for ITV but can't secure us a good Brexit deal. She's like the annoying kid in class who thinks she's hilarious but in reality everyone f****** hates her,' complained one. 'Am I bovvered though?' It isn't the first time a Prime Minister has tried to win votes with humour: Remember when Tony Blair met sassy teen Lauren Cooper? Watching the country's leader gamely chortling behind their desk, as Theresa May did on This Morning today, isn't a new thing. Back in March 2009, then PM Tony Blair met the trickiest of work experience candidates in the form of comedian Catherine Tate's character Lauren Cooper. A meeting of minds! Tony Blair meets Lauren Cooper, aka Catherine Tate, in a 2009 sketch for Comic Relief. The attitude-filled teen storms into the former PM's office with tea, biscuits and a whole lot of questions The comedy sketch saw Blair leaving his phone call to be quizzed by Cooper on how many famous people he'd met Increasingly stern, Blair is given the character's key catchphrase, as he tells her 'Am I bovvered though?' as she continues her tirade at him See you later number 10: Sucking her teeth, Tate's character heads for the door, suitably unimpressed by her work experience boss' hard line The attitude-filled teen was tasked with handing Blair tea and biscuits...but served it up with a million questions and a large dose of sass. Interrupting Blair on the phone, she demands to know 'who's the most famous person you've ever seen?' How did the Comic Relief sketch end? You guessed it, with a riposte of 'Am I bovvered though?' from a stern Prime Minister. Lauren promptly sucks her teeth and heads for the Downing Street door... Advertisement While it's not confirmed the PM was at her own desk in Downing Street, May did seem to be getting some extra help with Brexit negotiations as a text book titled 'Industry Strategy' was in full view. Calling from one of the three phones, May was seen in a smart white suit with chunky pearls, in front of her an important looking document with her pen placed over the top. In the background adding a personal touch, was a collection of paper crowns and a star sculpture that looked like it had been made by a child. The skit is reminiscent of the famous 2009 Comic Relief sketch former PM Tony Blair took part in alongside Catherine Tate's character Vicky Pollard. The PM took a break from busy Brexit negotiations to take part in the skit but her critics were not impressed taking to Twitter to complain Phillip sky dived into the studio with the help of the Red Devils in the clip which aired ahead of the 30th anniversary special As This Morning began, host Phillip was seen in the back of a cab stuck in a traffic jam trying to get to the studio. Warning Holly that he might miss the start of the special show, he explain he needed help and warned be quick. Holly then set about making a few calls. Party hats, a fountain pen and THREE phones: inside Theresa May's Number 10 office... The This Morning comedy sketch gave viewers some insight into life at Number 10, however contrived, after Theresa May opened the doors to her private office in London's most famous street. As the coiffured PM sat at her mahogany writing desk, she held an old-fashioned fountain pen in her hand and appeared to be jotting a personal letter on headed note paper. Over her left shoulder, a regal-looking sideboard carried remnants of what appears to have been a children's party, with numbered purple stars sticking out of a colourful blue bottle. Beneath them were a series of cardboard crowns. Hotline to Donald? Theresa May appeared on one of her three landline phones in her private Downing Street Office where the This Morning sketch is believed to have been filmed Communicating with Number 10's current resident isn't hard either; May has three desk phones and, one assumes, multiple mobiles. A direct line to Donald Trump, perhaps? Elsewhere, there's a grandiose gold vase underneath a stylish painting of a London bridge scene, and a copy of Industry Strategy, an official document of the Tory Party Conference, currently underway at the ICC in Birmingham. Advertisement First to learn of a 30th This Morning special potentially without Phillip, Dermot OLeary said to Holly: 'What? 30th with no Phillip not on my watch! Ill call in some favours.' Newsreader Mary Nightingale was then seen saying: Dont worry, I know exactly who to call Doctor Who star Jodie Whittaker was next up, answering Marys call before calling Celebrity Juice host Keith Lemon telling him: Phil needs ya With the help of Keith Lemon, Prime Minister Theresa May called Phillip back directly. Phillip had called his co-host Holly Willoughby to get help, so she called Dermot O'Leary and then he asked for help from an ITV newsreader before Doctor Who star Jodie Whittaker was enlisted Presenter Dermot O'Leary was drafted in to help and said to Holly: 'What? 30th with no Phillip not on my watch! Ill call in some favours.' Newsreader Mary Nightingale was then seen saying: Dont worry, I know exactly who to call Doctor Who star Jodie Whittaker was next up, answering Marys call before calling Celebrity Juice host Keith Lemon telling him: Phil needs ya Phillip then appeared to be landing in front of the television centre in White City, London with Holly waiting to greet him and start the show Theresa said: 'Its This Mornings 30th birthday, you absolutely have to be there I know just the people who can help you.' Directing him to a Red Devils sign, the PM signed off saying: 'Remember Phillip, the nations going to be watching good luck!' Joining forces with the Red Devils, Phillip is seen getting on a plane to fly across town before jumping out of the plane and sky diving to arrive at the This Morning studios at Television Centre just in time. Holly standing outside with her hands in the air, Holly said: 'What time do you call this?' Phillip later thanked all involved to help get him to the special show on time, and the 30th party started with a performance from The Bootleg Beatles to reference its Liverpool roots, and then had a special studio audience packed with viewers whos lives This Morning has saved or changed in some way. This Morning airs weekdays on ITV at 10.30am Chef Clare Smyth has had quite a year. Not only was she tasked with catering the royal wedding in the spring, the Gordon Ramsay protege has just scooped two Michelin stars for her London restaurant, Core by Clare Smyth in North Kensington. The Northern Irish chef, 40, has now told how 'surreal' it was working closely with Prince Harry and Meghan on the dishes guests including George and Amal Clooney, Oprah Winfrey and the Queen herself would enjoy on their 'fairytale' big day in Windsor. 'The fairytale story was my lasting memory from the wedding,' she told Hello! at the Michelin Star Awards. 'It couldn't have been more perfect... it was completely surreal.' Harry and Meghan's chosen wedding caterer Clare Smyth (seen with the head chef at her Core by Clare Smyth restarurant in Kensington, Jonny Bone, left, and her mentor Gordon Ramsay, right), said the menu on their big day was 'very important' to the couple 'It was very important to them': Clare said Meghan and Harry were heavily involved in menu planning ahead of their big day, which was attended by A-list movie stars and world-class athletes, as well as members of Harry's royal family The chef, who catered the royal wedding in May and was awarded two Michelin stars for her eponymous London restaurant this week, declared it an 'amazing year' on her Instagram Clare, who became the first woman to hold three Michelin stars when she presided over Gordon Ramsay's restaurant on Royal Hospital Road, and was named the 'world's best female chef' by the World's 50 Best, called the couple 'just brilliant'. 'They were involved in the menu, it was very important to them... it's a once in a lifetime thing so it's nice to be a part in it,' she told the magazine. Clare is believed to have prepared an organic menu that included posh burgers with Wagyu beef and pork belly for guests invited to the Frogmore House reception following Harry and Meghan's spectacular ceremony on May 19th. Harry and Meghan's wedding day menu was 'very important to them', according to the Northern Irish chef, who has just been presented with two Michelin stars for her London restaurant Core by Clare Smyth The Michelin Guide 2019 for Great Britain and Ireland was launched on Monday. Clare's mentor Gordon Ramsay was also celebrating, as his eponymous restaurant retained its three Michelin stars for a 17th year running. Newcomers to the list included trendy Brat in Shoreditch, London, and The Olive Tree, in Bath. Melania Trump is known for being particular fashion-forward with her style choices - but on Wednesday the first lady opted for a fashion flashback when she recycled a $595 military jacket during her trip to Ghana. The 48-year-old, who is currently on the second official day of her Africa tour, stepped out wearing a Veronica Beard design that she first modeled back in September 2017 during a trip to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland with her husband. Melania was clearly very fond of last year's look, because she paired the jacket with a near-identical ensemble for her trip to Cape Coast Castle, a former slave trading fort that is located around 90 miles from the Ghanaian capital of Accra. Old favorite: Melania Trump stepped out in Ghana on Wednesday (left) in a recycled $595 Veronica Beard military jacket that she first wore back in September 2017 (right) Seeing double: The 48-year-old wore the design while touring the Cape Coast Castle on day two of her Africa tour (left) having first modeled it during a visit to Joint Base Andrews (right) Much like she did in 2017, Melania wore the designer item with a pair of cropped khaki cigarette pants, and snakeskin footwear - however she traded the pricey Manolo Blahnik heels she wore last year in favor of some budget-friendly $49.95 loafers from Zara. In fact, the first lady went out of her way to make her outfit look more like last year's version; for her first outing on Wednesday morning, which saw her paying a visit to local chiefs in order to get permission to visit the castle, Melania had accessorized the jacket with a thick leather belt. However by the time she reached Cape Coast Castle, the mother-of-one had removed the addition to the look, leaving it free from any accessories, save for her diamond wedding band. She was also seen wearing a pair of her favorite Manolo Blahnik heels first thing in the morning - however she changed out of the sky high pumps and into the low-priced flats by the time she reached the 17th Century castle, no doubt in order to ensure she could enjoy the walking tour without worrying about her feet. Melania did make one change to the look however; having chosen to pop the collar of the jacket for her visit to the military base last year, the first lady opted to wear it down in a more conservative style while touring the castle. Thrifty business: Melania paired the full khaki look with a pair of budget-friendly $49.95 snakeskin loafers from Zara Outfit change: The first lady had actually paired the jacket with a thick leather belt, which she was seen wearing when she was first pictured on Wednesday, but she later removed it Quick switch: Melania, pictured left on Wednesday and right in 2017, paired the jacket with a near-identical ensemble of khaki cigarette pants and Manolo Blahnik heels - however she changed out of the heels before heading to the castle While speaking about her experience on Wednesday, the first lady said she was 'very emotional' during her visit to the historic site, and described it as something she would 'never forget'. The castle is one of dozens scattered along Africa's Gold Coast which was originally built by European traders but then used to house slaves in dungeons before shipping them overseas. They are characterized by what was referred to as a 'door of no return' - an archway on the seaboard side of the castle which slaves were forced to walk through to be lowered onto boats and taken to cargo ships. Melania, who has so far spent her time in Africa visiting children in schools and hospital patients, said the castle is 'really something that people should see and experience.' She added that it was a 'special place'. Firm fashion favorites: In July of this year, she recycled a $1,280 Adam Lippes dress, wearing it to a White House dinner with Apple CEO Tim Cook (left), having first worn it in March while visiting a hospital (right) Popular choice! Melania's most surprising outfit repeat came in March 2017, when she wore the same $3,000 Valentino dress two days in a row, first in the Oval Office (right), then at a local children's hospital (left) Although it happens rarely, this is not the first time that Melania has recycled one of her fashion favorites. In August of this year, Melania re-wore a $1,280 striped shirt dress by designer Adam Lippes, having first stepped out in the number back in March during a visit to Palm Beachs St. Marys Medical Center, where she delivered Easter baskets to young children. Meanwhile back in July 2017, the first lady was seen wearing a Michael Kors dress that she also modeled in 2016 while out on the campaign trail with her husband, Donald Trump. She repeated the look while enjoying an evening celebration with her East Wing interns at the end of their time at the White House. The most surprising fashion repeat however was in March 2017, when Melania wore the same $3,000 Valentino dress two days in a row - first modeling it in the Oval Office, while supporting her husband as he signed a new bill aimed at encouraging women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). She then donned it again the following day before going to visit a local children's hospital, where she spent time meeting some of the patients. Advertisement Supermodels Naomi Campbell and Christy Turlington star in stunning photographs featured in a book celebrating creative director Grace Goddington's time at Vogue. The book, entitled Grace: Thirty Years of Fashion at Vogue, has been re-issued in a new paperback edition to mark the fashion legend's 30 years at US Vogue. Images in the book include a striking black-and-white shot from 1990, showing Naomi riding in a convertible car with three dalmatians, while dressed in a spotted ensemble. Another picture from 1993 shows Christy posing in a plaid shirt and straw hat, along with fellow model Keith Martin. Grace: Thirty Years of Fashion at Vogue has been re-issued to mark creative director Grace Coddington's 30 years at US Vogue. A striking shot of Naomi Campbell from 1990, surrounded by dalmatians, features in the book The book features highlights from Coddington's career, including this shot of Christy Turlington posing in a wheat field alongside model Keith Martin in 1993 Another photograph from US Vogue in 200 shows Carmen Kass, Ansel Elgort, Richard Houghton, Liundmilla Bakhmat, Nathalie and Laura Love, Ben Reyer and Jane Moseley posing in front of a teepee tent A black-and-white shot, taken by photographer Ellen Von Unwerth in 1992, shows model Nadja Auermann in Morocco Christy Turlington (far right), photographed with Konstantin Goncharov and Irina Kuksenaite in the USSR in 1990 Model Debbie Deitering, wearing a dress by John Galliano, is pictured here in Jamaica in 1994, in a dreamy beach shot Grace: Thirty Years of Fashion at Vogue has been re-issued in paperback Coddington, 77, started her magazine career as a junior editor at British Vogue, where she spent 19 years before moving to New York. She became the creative director of American Vogue in 1988, later taking up the position of creative director at large in 2016. Despite spending the majority of her time behind the camera, Coddington gained wider fame after appearing in 2009 documentary, The September Issue, which gave a behind-the-scenes look at the fashion bible. Coddington's book Grace showcases some of the most influential photographs published in British and US Vogue from 1972 to 2002, featuring photographs by the likes of Cecil Beaton, Steven Meisel and Helmut Newton. The volume opens with a foreword written by the designer Karl Lagerfield and US Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, who brands Coddington as a 'legend' with 'the best eye in the business'. Grace: Thirty Years of Fashion at Vogue is published by Phaidon and is available here for 49.95. Advertisement A Miami-based photographer captured images of naked women's torsos without digitally altering any of the pictures for an empowering book about self-image and how society defines 'true beauty'. Amy Gelb, 48, who was born in New York, used her photography book entitled As Is: Women Exposed to explore why women feel the need to be defined as 'beautiful' in order to feel accepted by others. 'Why do women feel the responsibility to try to be beautiful in the first place?' Amy wrote in a personal essay about the photography book. 'Why can't we shift the conversation away from being beautiful toward what is meaningful and purposeful about our bodies?' Each of her subjects for the book are anonymous, allowing them to be free to express their body however they liked without fear of judgement or criticism. While Amy photographed a range of subjects including actresses, politicians, cancer survivors, mothers, rape victims and transgender women she encouraged them to share their personal feelings about their bodies. The only stipulation was that Amy would not enhance or alter any of the photos afterwards in an attempt to 'beautify' her subjects. She then took the photographs to create a raw compilation of women displaying their body in its raw form to promote empowerment and acceptance. One woman said: 'When I was photographed for As Is... I felt liberated and free, and I felt that I was sacrificing my uncertainty to make another woman feel empowered and beautiful.' Powerful: Photographer Amy Gelb photographed a series of anonymous women while they were nude for her new book (pictured is the book cover) Nude: Her book, entitled As Is: Women Exposed, explores the idea of self-image and how society defines 'true beauty' Exposed: 'Why do women feel the responsibility to try to be beautiful in the first place?' Amy wrote in a personal essay for the photography book Variety: Amy worked with a number of subjects, including women who were politicians, mothers, breast cancer survivors, rape victims and transgender Proud: One woman said: 'When I was photographed for As Is...I felt liberated and free, and I felt that I was sacrificing my uncertainty to make another woman feel empowered and beautiful' Opening up: Amy encouraged her subjects to speak about their personal experiences with their body and acceptance during the photo shoot Important: Prior to the shoot, Amy informed all of her subjects that she would not digitally alter the pictures Scars and all: She wanted women to embrace every aspect of their body without shame of any of the marks Close up: All of the shots focused on the women's torso to help provide anonymity to all of the subjects who participated Enough: Created from the photographs was a compilation of women displaying their body in its raw form to promote empowerment and acceptance Control: Women were given the option to back out of the photo shoot if they didn't feel comfortable participating Anonymous: Amy titled each woman a different name like 'lover' and 'volunteer' throughout the book Prince Harry looked every inch the devoted husband as he carried out a packed schedule of engagements with the Duchess of Sussex today. The royal, 34, stayed by his wife's side as they stopped off in Chichester, Bognor Regis and Brighton on their first visit to Sussex since being given the dukedom on their wedding day in May. At one point, during a tour of the historic Edes House in Chichester, Harry was filmed waiting dutifully for Meghan, 37, as she finished signing the visitors' book. Devoted: During a tour of the historic Edes House in Chichester, Harry was filmed waiting dutifully for Meghan, 37, as she finished signing the visitors' book, pictured Focused: The duchess took her time as she signed her name following the tour of the historic mansion. Her husband Prince Harry remained just feet away A local official tried to point out another feature in the room but Harry would not be distracted, preferring to gaze lovingly at Meghan as she finished signing. Crowds in their first destination of Chichester were slow to form, but by the time they arrived there were around 1,000 people waiting to see them, many waving flags. Harry and Meghan spent half an hour walking up and down West Street shaking hands and speaking to well-wishers. The royals walked 200 yards down West Street to Edes House, the magnificent Georgian mansion in the market town to be greeted by Caroline Nicholls, High Sheriff of West Sussex; Lionel Barnard, chairman of the local county council and Elizabeth Hamilton chairman of the district council. Number one priority: Meghan and Harry were inseparable as they carried out engagements. Pictured, Meghan looks on as her husband signs the visitors' book at Edes House, Chichester Drawing his attention: At one point Harry was asked to look at something else in the room, pictured, but soon turned back to watching Meghan as he waited All in a name: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex popped their signatures in the visitors' book at Edes House Inside the Grade I-listed building, which dates from 1696 which is mainly used for weddings and civic functions throughout the year, Wendy Walker, the West Sussex archivist, proudly showed them the rare Sussex copy of the American Declaration of Independence. The declaration, stored in the local records office but displayed especially for the royal visit, is one of only two contemporary handwritten ceremonial manuscript copies, the other being the signed copy housed in the National Archives in Washington D.C. It was originally delivered to the town in 1956 by solicitor Leslie Holden who worked for local firm Rapers and collected many local historical documents throughout his life. Fanfare: Harry and Meghan greeted well-wishers as they arrive for a visit to Edes House in Chichester this morning Human touch: The Duchess of Sussex hugs a well-wisher (left) before Prince Harry puts his arm behind her as they enter Edes House (right) Historical artefacts: The duke and the former actress see the rare Sussex copy of the American Declaration of Independence at Edes House At the time the company were the solicitors for the Duke of Richmond, whose family seat is Goodwood House in West Sussex. Harry diligently asked about the history of the document and seemed incredibly impressed when told of the significance of the manuscript. He said: 'That is absolutely amazing, so interesting.' When handed a copy of the Sussex Declaration which has been specially prepared for her, the Duchess said: 'Oh my goodness, that's great, thank you so much, that's really special, thank you'. On behalf of the records office, Mrs Walker also presented Meghan with a copy of the book 'Roots of America', an anthology of the documents relating to American history kept in the West Sussex records office. The Duke and Duchess both signed the Edes House visitors' book. What image springs to mind when you think of the term addict? Some poor drunk, reeking of alcohol at breakfast? A party girl whos lost her way? Someone whose life is chaotic, desperate, on the fringes of the law? Or do you picture a middle-class wife and mother with a busy full-time job and a happy home life, who doesnt drink or smoke to excess, is often to be found tucked up in bed by 11pm, rises at 6:30am and who to all intents and purposes lives an ordered and fulfilling existence? Thats me. I am that addict. The only real difference between me and the more common perception is that the drugs I take, antidepressants, are legal and available on prescription. Im not alone, either. There are millions of us on antidepressants around seven million in England alone. Thats 16 per cent of the adult population one of the highest rates in the world. And although from the outside we may look fairly normal, although we may lead functional, useful lives, we have one inescapable characteristic we share with even the most chaotic and out-of-control addicts: we cannot stop taking the drugs, because if we do the withdrawal symptoms will cripple us. Sarah Vine (pictured) first began taking antidepressants after her husband was appointed Secretary of State for Education. She revealed her battle to withdraw from the medication which has helped to stabilize her emotions This week a new study, published in the Journal of Addictive Behaviours and commissioned by the All Party Parliamentary Group for Prescribed Drug Dependence, found that of these seven million, four million face the risk of serious withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop taking their medication. These can include disorders such as nausea, insomnia, extreme irritability and chronic fatigue. Researcher Dr James Davies, of Roehampton University, said: This new review reveals what many patients have known for years that withdrawal from antidepressants often causes severe, debilitating symptoms which can last for weeks, months or longer. Doctors now believe that this explains in large part why so many people end up on medication indefinitely; and why the number of people reliant on medication in their day-to-day lives is steadily increasing at an annual cost to the NHS of 250 million. I know this only too well. Because I have tried and failed to come off. But each time Ive had to relent: the withdrawal was too debilitating. The fact that I find myself in this situation is a source of great shame and embarrassment to me. It is not something I am remotely proud of. Its not something I particularly want to talk about either no one enjoys laying bare their weaknesses and failings. But given the vast numbers of people who share my predicament, I felt it might perhaps help lift some of the stigma that surrounds this very tricky subject. Before I started taking antidepressants, I was always one of those people who thought that pills were the easy way out. Sure, I had experienced difficult periods in my life, during childhood and then as a young adult. The usual sort of stuff: exam pressure, work stress, emotional trauma. But each and every time I had picked myself up, dusted myself down. What doesnt kill you makes you stronger was my guiding motto. Even after I had my second child, my boy, and was diagnosed with post-natal depression by a very worried professor who thought I should really be in a clinic, I refused to take antidepressants. It wasnt just that I didnt like the idea of being dependent on a pill to feel normal; I felt it would be more useful and more constructive in the long term to tackle the root cause of my unhappiness, rather than mask it chemically. And it worked. Perhaps because it was my first real brush with the old black dog, I was able to return to some semblance of sanity (insofar as juggling work and two small children can ever be described as sanity!) through a combination of therapy and life changes. Sarah's doctor advised her to take Prozac in order to cope with mood swings, sleeplessness and an overwhelming feeling of helplessness (file image) We moved house back to a familiar neighbourhood and familiar friends I took up yoga, and the unshakable feeling that I was trapped inside the boot of a speeding car heading straight for a brick wall began to recede. I think I might have even been OK had life continued as normal. But the 2010 General Election saw David Cameron become Prime Minister. Within days my husband was appointed Secretary of State for Education, a job he believed in passionately. For him it was the culmination of years of thought and planning. For me it was the start of a rollercoaster ride that, looking back, I simply wasnt prepared for. No one is particularly interested in the challenges politicians and their families face, and Im certainly not searching for sympathy. So I wont bore you with the details suffice to say that the vicissitudes of public life had their effect, and somewhere around the spring of 2012 I found myself back in the boot of that metaphorical car. I was experiencing uncontrollable mood swings, irrational fears, sleeplessness and an overwhelming feeling of helplessness. I was struggling to concentrate and hopelessly forgetful. Even basic tasks such as shopping for groceries seemed somehow beyond my reach. I felt like every day was a struggle. Even missing one dose can leave me with burning limbs, dizziness, a buzzing behind my eyes and, oh, the irritability The only problem was that this time I didnt have the excuse of a new baby. This time I couldnt just disappear from view, take time out, press the reset button. Not now that the whole world was watching (well, probably not but it felt like that) and the stakes were so high. I had to carry on functioning, to maintain some semblance of normality, not least for the sake of my children, but also for my own sense of self. I couldnt let anyone not my employer, not my family, not the trolls on social media nor my husbands enemies, who would have been delighted to exploit any weakness see a chink in the armour. So when the doctor suggested Prozac, I thought why not? Just to take the edge off until things settle down a bit. What harm can it do? I still remember that extraordinary feeling as, after a few days, the medication began to kick in. My main worry had been that it would somehow affect my ability to think, to write, to work. That it would cloud my mind and knock the edges off. Sarah recalls antidepressants allowing her to regain control of her daily life when she first began taking them (file image) But the opposite happened. As the worry and panic that had flooded my brain for months and turned everything soft and soggy now began to recede, I felt myself becoming sharper. The everyday tasks which, in my anxiety, I had found almost impossible to tackle dealing with bills, organising the childrens timetables, taking the car for its MoT suddenly seemed as they were: simple and straightforward. My memory improved. I rediscovered my enthusiasm for going out. I was able to sleep again, instead of sitting up late into the night fretting. Most importantly, I no longer felt that if I failed to wake up the next morning, perhaps it wouldnt be such a bad thing for everyone concerned. In short, the drugs worked. They stabilised my emotions sufficiently to allow me to regain control of my day-to-day life. I remember phoning a friend in Scotland, elated. Im never coming off this stuff! I said. She, wisely, said nothing. In reality, like most people who take antidepressants, I had no intention of staying on them for ever. Just until things had gone back to normal, I told myself. Except, life being what it is, things didnt return to normal. If anything, they got more complicated. I sometimes wonder whether being on antidepressants has, to a certain extent, influenced the course of my life. Whether, without that chemical crutch, I would have done things differently. Whether the emotional anaesthesia that I have been under for these past few years has led me to take on challenges that, without the drugs, I would not have felt equipped to tackle. Sarah (pictured) says over time she developed a tolerance to the drugs. She was given Duloxetine after she began to experience shooting pains and crushing fatigue I guess Ill never know. But I do know this, from experience. In its natural state, the mind tells us when it finds itself under strain. We become sad, unhappy, fearful all normal, healthy reactions to adversity. Physical pain acts as a warning sign from the body that something is wrong or broken, and emotional pain has the same function. But if you are taking antidepressants, that process is disrupted. You are, to a greater or lesser extent, numb to your own feelings. And just as if you mask physical pain with pills you can end up pushing your body beyond its ability, potentially making the problem worse, numb the emotional pain and you end up doing the same to your soul. The pills may help you to cope on the surface; but the underlying problem never goes away. Indeed, it may even get worse. I certainly believe that this is what happened to me. On the outside, foolishly blind to the deepest of wounds. Inside, well, not so much. And just as any addict over time develops a tolerance to the drugs, requiring ever higher doses just to feel normal, I reached a point when the inevitable happened: the drugs stopped working. It was a bit like waking up in the middle of an operation: now my pain was physical as well as mental I was unable to move in the mornings, was experiencing shooting muscle pains, terrible headaches and an overwhelming sense of crushing fatigue. This time they put me on something called Duloxetine used in the treatment of major depressive disorder, generalised anxiety disorder, neuropathic pain, chronic musculoskeletal pain and fibromyalgia. Bingo. As I sank into my new chemical bath, all my aches and pains melted away. Once again, I was able to face the world. Duloxetine (pictured) has withdrawal symptoms including dizziness, headaches, nausea, diarrhoea, paresthesia, irritability, insomnia and suicidal thoughts according to a 2005 study Without it, I doubt whether I would have been able to cope with the stress of the EU referendum (in which my husband campaigned to leave) or the subsequent fallout of the Brexit vote (both political and personal) or the 2017 general election or, for that matter, moving house. But cope I did, and so it was that earlier this year I decided the time had finally come to kick my dependence. It wasnt just that I felt a desire to experience life in the raw again; it was also that for the past few years I have suffered from tinnitus, a high-pitched ringing in my ears which varies according to my levels of stress and tiredness, but which began around the same time I started on the Duloxetine. I had a notion that it might improve if I came off it. This wasnt going to be easy. Duloxetine is renowned for its withdrawal symptoms, which are generally more severe than with other antidepressants of this type. A 2005 study in America found that 44 per cent of users experienced withdrawal symptoms, which include dizziness, headaches, nausea, diarrhoea, paresthesia (a burning or prickling sensation, particularly in the limbs), irritability, insomnia and suicidal thoughts. I knew from experience that in my case even forgetting a dose was liable to trigger some of these symptoms, especially the burning sensation in the limbs and the dizziness as well as what some patients have described as brain zaps, a kind of weird buzzing behind the eyes (its very hard to put into words, but trust me: its not nice). Oh, and the irritability, which creeps up on you like a thief in the night. Dr Jennifer Wild advises being more mindful and redirecting your behaviour in order to overcome anxiety without resorting to pills (file image) With this in mind, I spoke to my doctor, and we agreed a programme of tapering off, gradually reducing my dose from 60 mg per day to 40, then 20, and then doing away with it altogether over a period of three months. Has it been successful? In a word, no. No matter how careful I am, no matter how slowly I go, I still end up experiencing all of the above, plus some horrendous nightmares into the bargain. As I write, I am still taking the stuff albeit on a much reduced dose. I still have raging tinnitus, I still have muscle pain, I still get dizzy spells and, if I dont get my sleep, can be extremely testy. I dont blame my doctors for any of this. They were simply doing their best with the tools at their disposal. But I do think that if there were more investment in mental health services in general, more awareness of the alternatives to medication and better information about how and where to get help, fewer people would end up going down the antidepressant route. Because however useful they may be, they are only ever a sticking plaster for the real problem. But I am determined. Not least because, for all the adverse effects of ditching this drug, I can already feel some of the positive ones. I may no longer be in the immortal words of Pink Floyd comfortably numb; instead I am uncomfortably but unquestionably alive. Alive to the world around me, to the people I love and to myself, my own feelings and emotions that for so long have been sedated. Ways to unknot anxiety without resorting to pills By Lauren Libbert Get help, even if you feel like nothing can change the way you feel. Doctors can recommend a range of treatments, some of the most effective of which dont involve pills. If you see your GP, you can seek treatment based on cognitive behavioural therapy, says David Baldwin, professor of psychiatry at the University of Southampton, though they may also suggest using antidepressants. A cure is rare, he continues, but the vast majority of people will improve with treatment. Stick to small doses of social media. Social media can actually help people to feel less isolated, says Eve Critchley, head of digital at mental health charity Mind. But its important to be aware of how youre feeling when youre online and, if you are starting to feel vulnerable or anxious, come off for a while. Challenge your harmful ideas about yourself and others. If you find yourself thinking, everyone stares at me when I walk into a room, rebut that with the truth, says psychotherapist Louise Tyler, who treats anxiety sufferers at her Personal Resilience clinic in Cheshire. Look around in fact, people are too busy to be interested in one persons arrival or presence. Expose your inner self. With clients, I do something called gradual exposure therapy encouraging them to expose themselves to social situations in small ways, so chatting to someone at the till or smiling at another mum in the playground, says Louise Tyler. When they see that nothing bad happened, then the anxiety starts to lessen. Be more mindful. When you feel any symptom, do something to re-focus your attention away from it, even if its making a cup of tea or going out for a walk, says Dr Jennifer Wild, consultant clinical psychologist at the University of Oxford. Once you redirect your behaviour, the anxiety about that symptom disappears and often the symptom itself, too. Are you or a loved one struggling to give up antidepressants? Tell us your story at femailreaders@dailymail.co.uk When, in my mid-30s, I fell passionately in love with a man I imagined I could settle down with, it was a huge relief. Id spent my 20s and early 30s moving from one relationship to another, wondering if Id ever find anyone to keep the sexual spark alive. The excitement always died after a year or two and this would make me deeply unhappy. I had a healthy libido and, although I wanted to get married eventually, I didnt see why the trade-off should be putting up with a lack of desire. Thankfully, my connection with this man felt different. Joel and I did marry. I soon fell pregnant and became consumed by the demands of child-rearing. Then, just as things were calming down, I was expecting again and the cycle began once more. I was exhausted, and my libido, as it does for many mothers, went into hibernation. But, when the children were older, I discovered my sex drive was much as it had been before. Author Wednesday Martin spoke to married women who consider infidelity for her new book. She shared advice from experts who believe passion in relationships can last a lifetime and therefore avoids the desire for infidelity (file image) Thankfully, my husband and I were having plenty of enjoyable sex. But I worried it wouldnt last and found my mind wandering: I had secret crushes on other men. I would never act on them, but still felt guilty and because we are brought up believing that when we find The One, it will make us complete I wondered if there must be something wrong with me. Did thinking like this make me a bad wife or even a little abnormal? I asked a few female friends, who confessed they felt the same way. CONFIDE IN OTHERS When I began researching womens sex lives for my latest book, I spoke to others like me. Ashamed, they would confide over coffee: Im really unusual because I have a really strong libido. I dont think Im cut out for monogamy. Talking to women in different situations and to evolutionary biologists, anthropologists and sex researchers helped me understand that what I felt was well within the normal range. As I wrote in Femail magazine last week, the latest anthropology theories suggest women may be wired to lust after others, not just our partners. In our evolutionary history, it was beneficial for women in certain circumstances to have several lovers which may explain why we find it difficult to maintain strong sexual desire in long relationships. However, these days, most women want to enjoy a monogamous relationship and remain faithful. So, is it possible to keep the spark alive with the same man? Happily, the answer is yes and, here, Ill share my tips, based on advice from experts Ive spoken to. Dr Lisa Diamond says sameness can stifle women sexually and that it's important to recognise that habituation doesn't mean that there's anything wrong with your relationship (file image) WE ALL GET BORED The first thing to understand is that keeping passion in a relationship going will sometimes feel like hard work, says Dr Lisa Diamond, a professor of psychology and gender studies at the University of Utah. She says this is because women habituate to sexual stimuli over time the more we make love with someone, the less thrilling it is. Oh, that again. You again, is what our subconscious says when we are intimate with a long-term partner. But Dr Diamond says the mistake is to think habituation means there is something wrong with you or your partner or with your relationship. Simply acknowledging the fact that your love life will sometimes be challenging is a start. And further recognising that sameness can stifle women sexually can relieve you of a sense that either you or your relationship is lacking. Dr Marta Meana argues passion is dependent on novelty, discovery and desire (file image) REBOOT PUPPY LOVE According to Dr Diamond, a strong predictor of desire is when long-term couples make an effort to do something different, in or out of the bedroom: When they participate in new, thrilling activities, couples often report a resurgence of puppy love, after seeing their partner from a new angle. And the simple fact is, our partners dont stay the same over time. If we want to be monogamous, we can look for and find novelty in that same person. But, as important as it is to share activities, for a healthy love life a couple also need to maintain their own separate interests, to assert themselves as individuals. Dr Marta Meana, a clinical psychologist at the University of Nevada, is researching low desire among women in long-lasting relationships. One theory is the very closeness and familiarity that come with a successful marriage can dampen womens libidos. Passion is dependent on novelty, discovery and desire, she says. We fall into old patterns and start thinking weve figured everything out about each other, when we really havent. Dr Meana suggests watching your spouse do activities that you usually don't get to see to reignite feelings of admiration (file image) MAINTAIN MYSTIQUE If we can maintain an air of mystique, then we stay interesting to each other. Referring to one of her studies, Dr Meana says: The couples were in each others lives so much that they [were] almost the same person . . . Theres no sense of otherness, no mystery, no excitement. For women, who often see themselves as managers at home, husbands can become just another person to look after. How often do you hear a wife joke about her husband being her third or fourth child? Seeing your partner this way is bound to be a turn-off. While Dr Diamond recommends shared activities, Dr Meana has other strategies. Something as simple as arriving for dates on your own can make a difference. Watching your husband taking part in an activity you wouldnt usually get to see (especially if its something in which he excels and that makes him appealing to others) can also help, reigniting feelings of admiration, lust and pride that hes yours. Dr Meana claims reminding yourself daily that you're a sensuous and passionate person can help to reconnect with your libido (file image) KICK-START LIBIDO Women can help reboot their libido by tuning in to a sense of their own sex appeal, says Dr Meana what she calls female erotic self-focus. Womens arousal may depend on their erotic relationships with themselves to a greater extent than is the case among men, she adds. Of course, this can be good or bad, depending on how were feeling about ourselves. Many women might not be able to imagine feeling sexy while tackling a pile of ironing or ferrying the children around. However, changes in thinking reminding yourself every day that youre a sensuous and passionate person really can help you to reconnect with your libido. Unfortunately, men often forget that they, too, have to make an effort to be seductive if they want their wives already exhausted from working and running families to feel sexy. This was certainly the case for Sarah, one of the women I interviewed for my book. A financial asset manager in her early 40s, she almost succumbed to an affair with Paul, a man she met on a business trip. What she found appealing was his interest in her unlike her husbands apparent indifference. Sex researchers believe a woman's desire is linked to erotic stimulation more than a man's (file image) She said Paul was the first man in years who seemed keen to know more, who asked questions about her life and her thoughts and who seemed fascinated by the answers she gave. I felt wanted and exciting. I felt happy and desirable, she said. Ultimately, Sarah decided that she could not make the leap into infidelity and ended her growing romance with Paul. But her experience shows how important it is for a partner to make clear how much he desires sex with you. The thought that hes choosing you above all others rather than simply making love because its expected will give a huge boost to a wifes libido. As Dr Meana told me: Seeing themselves desired is the ultimate turn-on for women. Sex researchers agree that its important to remember a womans desire is more likely than a mans to be responsive that is, to feel sexually excited in response to erotic stimulation. Men, however, seem more likely to experience spontaneous desire, which is more of an appetite, like hunger. As a result, we may think that mens desire is stronger. But it isnt, when we measure correctly! TRY MINDFULNESS Understanding the type of arousal you experience can be an important first step towards feeling that way again. As can being in the present moment. Studies by Canadian sex researcher Lori Brotto and her team looked at how mindfulness might lead to increased levels of desire in women. It may not immediately sound like a sexy subject, but mindfulness can help us remain present, rather than distracted by all the other things going on in life and may also allow us to bridge the gap between mind and body. Experts advise embracing fantasies with your partner in order to relight the fire (file image) It enables women to enjoy physical pleasure without being held back by negative self-judgment, whether its worrying about body image issues or the fact that theyre not feeling passionate enough. Ultimately, its important for women to remember that they are entitled to pleasure. Dr Meana said many women in her study of long-term partnerships seemed to feel very little sense that they could halt their flagging desire they had just given up. But to find sexual satisfaction and relight the fire within, she believes women need to feel a sense of ownership of, and responsibility for, their own sexual excitement. Writing my book about women, and the different ways in which they have explored their sexuality beyond marriage, certainly opened my mind to the possibilities of finding sexual satisfaction within a long-term relationship. While everyone must find their own way of staying fulfilled, more than ever Im glad that married love is an adventure I can share with my husband. 5 WAYS TO RELIGHT THE FIRE Get variety and novelty from within your relationship. Experiment with something new in the bedroom (or out of it) even something as simple as a new sexual position. Fall back in lust by spending time together having fun not just in the bedroom. For example, going on a zip-line or roller coaster, learning to tango, or taking a romantic trip can all create a rush of adrenaline that works to boost attraction. Turn to your fantasies. We dont necessarily want to actually do all the things we fantasise about, but enjoy this internal playground without guilt. And dont be shy about telling your partner what youre thinking of! Adventure together and be reassured, it is normal. Women need variety as much as men do. Whether you read a sexy passage from a book or talk about a fantasy, there are plenty of ways to balance the need for variety, novelty and adventure with the desire to stay true to your partner. Fall back in love with yourself. Looking in the mirror and appreciating your body helps women to see themselves as sexy and having the power to turn men on and that turns them on, too. Adapted by Clare Goldwin from Untrue: Why Nearly Everything We Believe About Women And Lust And Infidelity Is Untrue, by Wednesday Martin, published by Scribe on October 11 at 14.99. Wednesday Martin 2018. To order a copy for 11.99 (offer valid to October 18, 2018), visit mailshop.co.uk/books or call 0844 571 0640. P&P is free on orders over 15. His royal wedding is just a week away, but Jack Brooksbank still found time to let his hair down on Wednesday night. Jack, 31, made a rare public appearance without his fiancee Princes Eugenie, 28, as he attended the launch party of Italian restaurant Harry's Bar in Marylebone, London. The star-studded bash had a guest list that included Laura Whitmore and Jenni Falconer. Princess Eugenie's fiance Jack Broosbank, 31, attended the launch party of Italian restaurant Harry's Bar on James Street in London's Marylebone on Wednesday (pictured) Eugenie, who will marry Jack at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle on October 12, did not attend the event with her fiance tonight. Pictured: The couple attend the Serpentine Gallery Summer Party in June earlier this year Jack, the European brand manager at George Clooney's Casamigos tequila, cut a dapper figure in a sharp navy suit, which he wore with a red patterned tie and brown brogues. He posed for a snap in the stylish restaurant, which had cosy wood-paneled interiors. Jack appeared to be attending the event solo, as Princess Eugenie didn't seem to be among the guests. With just nine days to go before their wedding, the party will be one of the last nights out he has as a single man. Jack, who popped the question during a holiday to Nicaragua, recently got a promotion at work from UK brand ambassador to European brand manager at Casamigos Tequila, the brand co-founded by George Clooney (the couple are pictured together at Buckingham Palace after announcing their engagement in January) Eugenie and Jack will tie the knot at St George's Chapel, the same venue as Harry and Meghan's May nuptials, followed by a carriage procession through Windsor. The couple will have a reception hosted by the Queen at Windsor Castle, followed by a more intimate reception at the Royal Lodge, the Yorks' family home, the next day. Buckingham Palace announced details of ITV's royal wedding coverage yesterday after reports the BBC declined to televise the couple's big day. The broadcaster will air live coverage of the wedding in an extended This Morning special, presented by Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford. The couple will have have their wedding televised on ITV's This Morning next week. Pictured: Eugenie and Jack attend a red carpet event in London last month Earlier today the couple's official wedding china was revealed, which hinted that Jack will not receive a title when the couple may. The china features the the couple's official monogram, which does not feature a crown, unlike Harry and Meghan's, as well as Eugenie's individual insignia, which both do. The speculation comes after previous rumours that Jack could be given the vacant title Earl of Northallerton. However, a Palace source has previously insisted the Queen would not be gifting Jack an official title following the wedding. She rarely puts a foot wrong when it comes to her sartorial choices, and today's outfit was no exception. Queen Maxima of the Netherlands, 47, cut a feminine figure in a ruffled frock as she attended the annual report of the Netherlands Committee for Entrepreneurship, Moerkappelle. The mother-of-three, who is married King Willem-Alexander, 51, looked in high spirits as she was admired different exhibits at the event, which celebrates entrepreneurs in the south of the Netherlands. Queen Maxima of the Netherlands, 47, (pictured) attended the annual report of the Netherlands Committee for Entrepreneurship, Moerkappelle on Thursday The Argentinian-born royal, who is married to King Willem-Alexander, 51, wore a feminine grey frock with ruffles for the event (pictured), which celebrates entrepreneurs in the south of the Netherlands Maxima's frock was in a muted grey colour that featured ruffles on the chest, sleeves and skirt. It was brightened up by a bejeweled brown belt with a matching neckline and cuffs on the sleeves. The modern dress was cut just above the knee, allowing the Argentinian-born royal to flaunt her toned legs and brown stilettos. Ever stylish Maxima wore the dress with a gold bracelet on one wrist and a smart black watch on the other. Maxima, who is mother to Catharina-Amalia, 14, Alexia, 13 and Ariane, 11, looked in high spirits as she was admired different exhibits at the event (right), At one point the guests posed for a huge group photo and Maxima (pictured centre in the second row) looked amused as the group raised their hands in the air for the snap She wore her trademark blonde hair down and poker straight around her shoulders and at one point pushed it out of her face, creating a quiff effect. Maxima was given a tour of the exhibits at the event and seemed enthused as she expected them. At one point she posed for a huge group photo and beamed as the other guests posed with their hands in the air. Last week Maxima caused a stir by wearing an enormous brown hat as she arrived in Enschede for the National Loneliness Congress. Last week Maxima caused a stir by wearing an enormous brown hat as she arrived in Enschede for the National Loneliness Congress, pictured. The Dutch royal is a fan of bold hats Maxima has three daughters, Catharina-Amalia, 14, Alexia, 13 and Ariane, 11, with husband King Willem-Alexander, 51. Maxima has endured a difficult few months, recently flying to Buenos Aires for the funeral of her younger sister, Ines Zorreguieta. Ines took her own life at the age of 33 following a lengthy battle with depression. Maxima pulled out of several state visits in the wake of Ines death in June, bravely returning to work two weeks later. Later that month, during a visit to a hospital in Groningen, she appeared to fight back tears as she gave a short speech. If you like to start the day with a bowl of cereal, you could easily be consuming the equivalent of seven cubes of sugar if you're not careful about portion size. A new report, Behind The Label, has revealed that some of us are eating as much as 62g of sugar at breakfast time due to pouring two to three times the recommended portion. Researchers asked a group of Leeds office workers to pour their own cereal over the course of a week with the average bowl weighing in at 73g more than double the typical 30g guideline. Special K Original was found to be the cereal which participants poured the largest portion size of with the average bowl weighing 93g more than three times the recommended portion size. And those who favoured Kellogg's Crunchy Nut poured an average bowl of 78g of cereal, containing 28.5g of sugar - the equivalent of seven cubes. Nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed said: 'The concern with products that are often seen as "healthier alternatives", is they don't always match up to their reputations. A study has found that people pour themselves up to three times the recommended portion of breakfast cereal, and consume as many as seven cubes of sugar as a result 'Additionally, there is a danger that people may consume more of a product if they consider it to be 'healthier'. 'As a nutritionist, I've seen this first hand in weight loss clinics where clients may eat even as much as double a portion size of a product if it's perceived to be healthy.' SPECIAL K Key findings from the report commissioned by wrenkitchens.com reveal that participants helped themselves to an average portion of Special K Original weighing 93g, which is more than three times the recommended portion size. A helping of this size contains 351 calories and 14g of sugar more an Original Glazed Krispy Kreme doughnut, which contains 12.6g. KELLOGG'S CRUNCHY NUT The average portion size of Crunchy Nut was 78g, more than twice the recommended amount. This put the bowl's sugar content at 28.46g, the equivalent of seven cubes of sugar and the equivalent of nearly two-and-a-half Original Glazed Krispy Kreme doughnuts. This is what the average serving of popular breakfast cereals should look like, according to the report Behind The Label, but people pour themselves up to three times as much KELLOGG'S CRUNCHY NUT GRANOLA This cereal has the highest sugar content of all with 12 per 45g serving. However, people poured more than double the recommended portion, adding 82g to their bowls. This stacks up to 389 calories and 21.84g of sugar, the equivalent of nearly two Original Glazed Krispy Kreme doughnuts LUCKY CHARMS Lucky Charms had the smallest recommended portion size of any of the cereals in the experiment at 27g. However, participants on average helped themselves to 62g, meaning the average bowl contained 81g of sugar and 251 calories. HOW MUCH SUGAR ARE YOU EATING FOR BREAKFAST? Cereal Recommended portion Average portion Sugar Coco Pops 30g 58.35g 9.91g Sainsbury's Raisin Wheats 45g 58.35g 13.45g Special K Original 30g 93.36g 14g Alpen Original 45g 82.5g 17.4g Fruit And Nut Oat Granola 45g 81.9g 21.84g Lucky Charms 27g 61.6g 22.81g Kellogs Crunchy Nut 30 77.62 7.1 30g 77.62g 28.46g ALPEN ORIGINAL Alpen Original fans helped themselves to nearly double the recommended portion size, serving 82.5g as opposed to 45g. A serving this large contains 17.4g of sugar and 308 calories - the same as nearly one-and-a-half Original Glazed Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Although some of the sugar within Alpen is naturally occurring within the raisins, sugar is added to the ingredients. People with diabetes are significantly more likely to have both forms of arthritis and osteoporosis, a study has revealed. Danish researchers, who presented their findings at a major diabetes conference in Germany, examined data from around 109,000 people. They found diabetics face a 70 per cent higher risk of rheumatoid arthritis, a whole-body illness in which the immune system attacks the joints. And their risk of osteoarthritis, where cartilage breaks down, and the bone-wasting condition osteoporosis was 33 and 29 per cent higher, respectively. Diabetes could make people more likely to suffer from arthritis or osteoporosis, Danish researchers have discovered, and they say exercising is key for people to avoid both conditions Chronic swelling in the joints which can be caused by or cause both diabetes and arthritis is thought to be the link between the two illnesses. Experts fear the pain of arthritis could put people off exercise and worsen their diabetes, creating a vicious cycle which could, in turn, make the arthritis worse. The Nordsjaellands University Hospital in Hillerd findings were presented at the annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes in Berlin. Most of the 9,238 diabetic people in the study were assumed to have type 2 diabetes because they were over 40 and more likely to be overweight. WOMEN'S HEARTS ARE MORE AFFECTED IN THE LEAD-UP TO DIABETES Women's health becomes much worse than men's in the run-up to type 2 diabetes, a study has revealed. Researchers at Maastricht University Medical Centre in the Netherlands, found having diabetes reverses the advantage being a woman has in giving protection from heart disease. Based on women aged 40-75 years, experts found women with prediabetes the first step before the full-blown condition have higher blood pressure, higher cholesterol and more fat in the blood than men in the same position. This suggests the risk of heart problems for prediabetic women is higher than that for men the opposite of what is seen in healthy people. The authors wrote in their study: 'There are already sex differences in [heart] risk factors before the onset of type 2 diabetes, to women's disadvantage.' The research was presented at the annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes. Advertisement Both diabetes and arthritis are common more than 422 million people around the world are living with diabetes and 350 million have arthritis. Researchers say inflammation unhealthy swelling of tissues inside the body can be caused by, or be a cause of, diabetes and may also trigger the skeletal illnesses. Steroid treatments given to treat arthritis may also contribute to type 2 diabetes because they affect the body's ability to absorb glucose or use insulin. Type 2 diabetes and the bone conditions could be linked, too, and the researchers suggest having either raises the risk of the other. Study author Dr Stig Molsted said: 'It's likely the chronic pain experienced by people with arthritis may be a barrier to exercising, which is also a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. 'Health care professionals should make patients with diabetes aware that regular exercise is a recognised treatment for diabetes and arthritis, and can have positive effects on both blood sugar control as well as musculoskeletal pain.' People with diabetes were found to be 27 per cent more likely to say they had back pain, and 29 per cent more likely to have pain in their shoulder or neck. But people who were more physically active reported less pain than those who didn't exercise suggesting that activity is key to avoiding joint problems. Teenagers who use cannabis are inflicting long-term damage on their brains, a new study has warned. Researchers tracked nearly 4,000 teenagers over fours years and found clear evidence of marijuana use being linked to struggles with reasoning, memory and inhibitions later in life. Previous studies have shown that cannabis misuse has been linked to impairments in learning, attention, and decision-making, as well as lower academic performance. But the team, led by the University of Montreal in Canada, says its findings are the first to show the causal and lasting effects of teen pot use on cognitive development. Researchers say marijuana use in teenagers was linked to struggles with reasoning, memory and inhibitions later on life (file image) For the study, the team followed more than 3,800 Canadian adolescents between seventh and 10th grade for a period of four years. Once a year, the participants rated how much they used cannabis on a zero to five scale - zero meaning 'never' and five being 'every day'. For alcohol specifically, the teens were asked to provide the typical number of drinks they have in a day. Researchers also looked at year-over-year changes in four cognitive areas: recall memory, working memory, perceptual reasoning and inhibitions. Tasks included being able to find a phone among a group of images, learning a pattern and being able to reproduce it 30 minutes later, and completing a sequence of puzzles with increasing difficulty. The number of students who reported never using cannabis fell from 95.4 percent in the first year of the study to 71 percent in the last year. Meanwhile, teens who reported using marijuana every day increased five-fold from 0.37 percent in year one to two percent in year four. Using an advanced analytical model, the study found that teens who used cannabis more frequently performed the worst on the cognitive domain tests. Researchers also found that cannabis use in any given year was linked to impaired inhibitory control and working memory one year later. 'We were surprised that the effects of cannabis were more pronounced than the effects of alcohol,' senior author and investigator Dr Patricia Conrod, of the department of psychiatry at the University of Montreal, told Daily Mail Online. 'And we were surprised of the lasting effects. Even if a young person reduced their use, you could still see effects from the previous year. It was more than we expected.' There is also a concern of teens vaping cannabis after a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report revealed last month e-cigarettes were being used to concel marijuana. The report found one-third of high school students and a quarter of middle school students that had used e-cigarettes for cannabis in 2016. A 2017 study also from the University of Montreal found that teens who smoked pot as early as 14 performed worse by age 20 on cognitive tests and dropped out of school at a much higher rate than non-smokers. Another study from Concordia University, also located in Montreal, found that adolescents who smoked pot at age 15 or younger suffered from cognitive development and even respiratory diseases. Dr Conrod said that there are many questions that she and her team would like to answer in future research. 'In the context of recreational cannabis use in adults, when the brain not undergoing maturation, we want to see if they are just as vulnerable to the effects of cannabis,' she said. 'We also want to see if there's a difference in sensitivity between males and females and what brain mechanisms are underlying this effect.' Sexual assault survivors have much higher risks of developing life-long health issues like hypertension, insomnia and depression than others, according to a new study. The research, published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association, is one of the first to assess the ramifications of assault in a clinical setting. More than one in three women have experienced sexual assault, one in five is raped, and up to 75 percent have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace. Many previous studies have shown survivors suffer in the wake of their ordeals, but until now those reports have relied on self-reported data. The new study by Pitt School of Medicine looked at 300 women, who had initially been recruited for a study on heart health, and found those who'd been sexually assaulted were twice as likely to have insomnia and hypertension, and three times as likely to suffer major depression. The report comes as senators grapple with sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court-nominee Brett Kavanaugh, whose first accuser, Stanford psychology professor Dr Christine Blasey Ford, says she has suffered PTSD ever since the day he allegedly pinned her on a bed, covered her mouth, and tried to rip her clothes off. Researchers found assault drastically drove up risks of hypertension, insomnia and depression 'When it comes to sexual harassment or sexual assault, our study shows that lived experiences may have a serious impact on women's health, both mental and physical,' lead author Dr Rebecca Thurston, a professor of psychiatry, psychology, and epidemiology, said. 'This is an issue that needs to be tackled with urgency, not just in terms of treatment but in terms of prevention.' The study has some caveats: the cohort was small, and most of the women involved were white. But it has been hailed as one of the most significant steps to concretely measure how those who feel violated can suffer physiological side effects for years after. Last week, a debate erupted over the science of how sexual assault could impact a person's health after Dr Christine Blasey Ford spoke to the congressional committee about her PTSD. Dr Ford, a psychology professor at Stanford University, spoke in detail about brain chemistry as she described how she feels impacted by the alleged assault. 'The [cause] of anxiety and PTSD is multifactorial,' Dr Ford said. '[The incident] was certainly a critical risk factor. That would be a predictor of the [conditions] that I now have.' Today's study appears to add weight to that theory. Of the study participants, 19 percent reported workplace sexual harassment, 22 percent reported a history of sexual assault, and 10 percent experienced both. Sexual harassment victims were more likely to be college educated, and yet have greater financial strain. Looking specifically at sexual harassment (as opposed to sexual assault), they found victims had a higher risk of higher blood pressure and greater likelihood of hypertension, greater triglycerides, and clinically poorer sleep quality. Sexual assault was associated with levels of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and sleep quality in the ranges consistent with clinical disorders. 'It is widely understood that sexual harassment and assault can impact women's lives and how they function, but this study also evaluates the implications of these experiences for women's health,' Dr Thurston said. Last week, a debate erupted over the science of how sexual assault could impact a person's health after Dr Christine Blasey Ford, a psychology professor at Stanford University, told the congressional committee that sexual assault alters the brain chemistry of survivors The study is being presented today at the annual conference of the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) in San Diego, which analyzes risk factors for women's health. Dr JoAnn Pinkerton, an OB/GYN and chair of NAMS, said the findings show doctors should be aware that experiences years earlier in a woman's life could be linked to chronic health issues now. 'Victims of sexual harassment often experience emotional and physical symptoms for many years. Sometimes during menopause, those issues come to the surface with all the changes in hormones and stress of often taking care of aging loved ones or teenagers still at home,' Dr Pinkerton told DailyMail.com. 'Sexual assault and sexual harassment are risk factors for women health. Clinicians need to ask about them and to recognize that past traumatic events affect health as women age. 'Both sexual harassment and assault, which may occur in as many as one out of five women, has been understudied for its effects on health. We need societal help to get women to bring their past events to their doctors as they are risk factors for both heart and mental health.' Moving forward, Dr Pinkerton called for more research in more diverse communities. 'This particular study is limited by small numbers, and a lack of diversity that limits generalizability about frequency and health risks. Based on other information, these health risks are likely to be greater in more racially diverse and economically stressed women.' Adverts for GP appointments via smartphones have been banned for failing to tell patients they must leave their current doctor. They were also criticised for suggesting patients could see an NHS GP 'in minutes' when actually they had to be registered for up to three weeks beforehand. The ads were for Babylon's GP at Hand, a controversial service which enables patients to have virtual consultations with a family doctor if they de-register from their existing surgery. It is currently only available to patients who live and work in London, but the firm is planning to expand nationwide, and has been heavily endorsed by the Health and Social Care Secretary. But the Advertising Standards Authority has banned GP at Hand adverts which appeared as posters, a Facebook post and on Babylon's website for being misleading. GP at Hand is a controversial service which enables patients to have virtual consultations with a family doctor if they de-register from their existing surgery (pictured: one of the Facebook adverts for the service) It said the service did not make it clear patients had to de-register from their own GP beforehand, that the sign-up process would take at least a week and they had to live and work in London. The advertising watchdog said: 'We told GP at Hand to ensure that future ads made clear that consumers would be replacing their current GP service with GP at Hand, that the service was only available to those that lived or worked within the catchment area of specific GP surgeries and that consumers would need to wait until they were registered with a GP at Hand surgery before being able to use the service.' The app was launched last November and some 32,000 have already left their previous doctor to sign up to the firm's practice in West London, so they can access the online service. GP at Hand's patients include Health Secretary Matt Hancock, who has described it as 'revolutionary' and wants it rolled out across the country. But last week the head of the Royal College of GPs warned that the service was 'luring' doctors and patients away from traditional surgeries, which could force them to close. Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard also said she was anxious about the safety of virtual appointments, as they have never been properly tested. On Monday night, Mr Hancock was again criticised by GP leaders for saying the consultations should be rolled out like driverless cars. GP at Hand's patients include Health Secretary Matt Hancock (pictured), who has described it as 'revolutionary' and wants it rolled out across the country EXPANSION PLANS ARE BLOCKED BY HEALTH CHIEFS Plans to roll out a controversial smartphone app that lets patient speak to their GP were blocked by NHS chiefs in August, amid fears over patient safety. Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock has said he wants to see the technology 'available to all' on the NHS and 'not just the select few' in London. The app, which works 24 hours a day, seven days a week, claims to reduce pressure on primary care and hospitals. But attempts by private firm Babylon Health to expand its 'GP at Hand' app into Birmingham were thwarted by health chiefs. NHS England has blocked the move over concerns it could lead to patients missing vital tests, screening appointments or treatment because they will no longer be registered with a local GP. Advertisement Speaking at an event at the Tory party conference in Birmingham, hosted by the Royal College of GPs, he suggested that the appointments didn't need to work perfectly before they were introduced nationwide. He said: 'People say, 'no we've got to make sure it works perfectly for everybody before we roll it out'. 'No we don't, we have to roll it out for people who can benefit while making sure it is clinically safe. But clinically safe means up to high safety standards. 'There's an analogy here with driverless cars. If driverless cars, autonomous cars, can reduce the risk of an accident compared to a human by 90 per cent - but it still hits the headlines when one of those 10 per cent happens - then that's still an improvement.' But Professor Stokes-Lampard - who was at the same event - she didn't want patients 'crashing' like driverless cars. She said: 'I'm not having patients crashing. The difficulty with the metaphor is that patients and their lives are too precious to play mobile phone upgrades with.' The Advertising Standards Agency said it had received eight complaints about the GP at Hand adverts, including one from a GP. One said they had to wait three weeks before they were registered with the app. A spokesman for Babylon's GP at Hand said some 'minor changes' had been made to the ads to make the sign-up process and eligibility criteria 'even clearer.' They added: 'With over 32,000 people currently registered with GP at Hand and more than four out of five people rating our digital appointments giving them the full five stars, Londoners clearly like our service, because great care only comes when great doctors are supported by great technology.' Spending time at the beach is supposed to be relaxing. But for one unlucky woman, a holiday to the seaside took an unexpected turn - and left her in hospital. The unnamed 60-year-old, from Ireland, was hit so hard by a wave that it ruptured one of the arteries in her neck. Astounded doctors published the tale in a medical journal and claimed it to be the first ever case of its kind. It is unknown where the patient was on holiday. An unnamed 60-year-old woman suffered a ruptured artery in her neck after a wave hit her while on holiday. Brain scan shows the thickened, and therefore weakened, artery The woman began to experience dull headaches and neck pain almost immediately after the crashing wave struck. She eventually went to hospital two weeks later, when her eyelids started to droop and and her pupils became uneven in size. Initial brain scans revealed one of the arteries that supplies the brain with blood and oxygen had ruptured. This is thought to have occurred due to the impact of the wave causing the small blood vessels within the artery to break apart. The patient was diagnosed with the rare condition Horner's syndrome, according to the tale published in BMJ Case Reports. This is caused by damage to the nerves in the face and results in the eyeball sinking into its cavity. After being referred to Galway University hospital, medics discovered the patient's eyes were moving involuntarily but she was otherwise healthy. She began experiencing dull headaches and neck pain almost immediately after the crashing wave struck. Brain scans show the length of the artery that ruptured during the incident After initially taking aspirin to prevent her having a stroke, the patient came off the medication and was fully recovered six months later. Brain scan shows the healed artery back to normal WHAT IS HORNER'S SYNDROME? Horner's syndrome is defined as a decreased pupil size, a drooping eyelid and reduced sweating on one side of the face. It occurs as a result of damage to nerve pathways from the brain to the face and the eye to one side of the body. This may be due to a stroke, tumour or spinal cord injury, however, there is not always a cause. Other symptoms include: Delayed opening of the pupil in dim light Elevation of the lower lid Sunken appearance to the eye These symptoms can be subtle and difficult to detect. Children under one may also have a lighter coloured iris in the affected eye. Lack of redness in response to heat or exercise can also occur in youngsters. Prompt treatment is required due to Horner's often occurring as a result of a serious condition. There is no specific treatment for Horner's itself. Symptoms often resolve when the underlying cause is treated. Source: Mayo Clinic Advertisement After carrying out an MRI scan to be on the safe side, they found she was suffering from carotid artery dissection (CAD). This occurs when blood leaks into a tear in the artery wall. As the blood pools, it causes the layers of the artery wall to separate. This prevents oxygen reaching the brain and is responsible for up to 25 per cent of strokes in young adults. Physical trauma causes 40 per cent of all CAD cases. However, Dr Etimbuk Umana, who wrote the case report, said she had never before heard of a beach wave causing the condition. Horner's syndrome is thought to occur in between 25 and 60 per cent of patients with CAD. The woman's damage had fully repaired itself after six months, doctors wrote in the journal. She was initially given aspirin to reduce her risk of stroke, but it was stopped when a scan showed oxygen-rich blood was still reaching her brain. Doctors were also concerned the blood-thinning drug may pose a bleeding risk. A scan revealed the swellings of clotted blood in her artery were resolving on their own and did not require further treatment. 'I continued to experience a lot of soreness over my forehead for a few weeks, not relieved by painkiller tablets,' the patient said. 'Eventually after taking Lyrica for a few months my pain subsided.' Lyrica is a brand name for the painkiller pregabalin, which is also used to treat epilepsy and anxiety. According to the doctors, more research is required to determine if anti-clotting drugs benefit patients in cases such as this. It may sound unimaginable, a plant which can leave you feeling like you're being burnt with hot acid and electrocuted at the same time. But there are nettles in the Australian rainforest which do just that, according to a scientist unfortunate enough to have put her finger through one. The Dendrocnide moroides plant, also known as the 'Gympie-Gympie stinging tree', is thought to be the most potent and deadly stinging nettle in the world. It can kill animals with severe allergic reactions and the pain can be so bad it has reportedly caused a man to shoot himself, according to Dr Marina Hurley. The Dendrocnide moroides plant, also known as the Gympie-Gympie stinging tree is thought to be the world's most painful stinging nettle and is described by Dr Marina Hurley as 'the worst kind of pain you can imagine' Dr Hurley, a science writing professor at the University of New South Wales, has revealed her 'excruciating' experience of touching the hellish leaves. In a piece for The Conversation, she said: '[It's the] worst kind of pain you can imagine like being burnt with hot acid and electrocuted at the same time. She studied the leaves for her PhD to work out what was eating the toxic plants, discovering it was mainly nocturnal leaf-eating chrysomelid beetles. The D. moroides, nicknamed after the town Gympie in Queensland where it was first discovered in 1860, causes the 'worst kind of pain you can imagine', Dr Hurley wrote. And the pain is caused by tiny hairs which cover the leaves, stem and fruits of the plants, which can grow up to three metres tall with 50cm-wide leaves. When the hairs touch skin, the end breaks off and the shaft of the hair sticks into the skin, injecting a toxin in the same way as a hypodermic needle. She first felt the pain when she accidentally poked her finger through a leaf on the ground when trying to pick up a dropped glove. 'Even the slightest touch of a D. moroides leaf can cause excruciating pain,' Dr Hurley said in her piece for The Conversation. The Gympie-Gympie stinging tree is covered in tiny hairs which stick into the skin and inject a poorly-understood toxin which causes agonising pain which lasts for hours and has reportedly driven a man to shoot himself WHAT IS THE GYMPIE-GYMPIE STINGING TREE? The Dendrocnide moroides plant is thought to be the most potent and deadly stinging nettle in the world. It can kill animals with severe allergic reactions and the pain can be so bad it has reportedly caused a man to shoot himself, according to reports. The D. moroides is nicknamed after the town Gympie in Queensland where it was first discovered in 1860. And the pain is caused by tiny hairs which cover the leaves, stem and fruits of the plants, which can grow up to three metres tall with 50cm-wide leaves. When the hairs touch skin, the end breaks off and the shaft of the hair sticks into the skin, injecting a toxin in the same way as a hypodermic needle. Advertisement 'An intense stinging, burning pain is felt immediately, then intensifies, reaching a peak after 20 to 30 minutes. 'Not only do you feel pain from where you are stung, if it is a really bad sting, within about 20 minutes your lymph nodes under your arms swell and throb painfully and feel like they are being slammed between two blocks of wood. 'The intense throbbing pain from both the sting and from your lymph nodes can last anywhere from one to four hours, depending upon what species you touched, the amount of skin that was stung, and how hard you came into contact with the plant.' The toxin from the plant, which is not well understood by scientists, is difficult to destroy and even dried leaves from over 100 years ago can still sting. And the toxin can remain in the skin for up to six months and cause more pain after the original injury. The trees grow in rainforests in Queensland and the north of New South Wales and are found in the forest's understory layer between the canopy and the forest floor. During her research, Dr Hurley heard tales of others who had been stung in the past. One ex-serviceman fell into a stinging tree while crossing a river in 1941 and said he had to be tied to a hospital bed for three weeks because he was in so much pain. The same man remembered seeing a military officer shoot himself because he couldn't stand the pain. Dr Marina Hurley studied the huge toxic plants for her PhD and had to wear a dust mask and cover her arms and legs when she was working with them to avoid being stung or inhaling the plant's hairs And the horror of the Gympie-Gympie stinging tree doesn't end there scientists working near the plants have noticed they cause sneezing, nose bleeds and lung damage, Dr Hurley said. She added: 'The reaction starts with your nose tingling, then dripping continuously. 'After a short period, you start to sneeze not just mild sneezing but intense, harsh and continuous bouts of sneezing. 'This happened to me and my field assistants when in close proximity to the plant, either in the rainforest or in the laboratory. 'I believe that this reaction is caused by breathing in the hairs that become air-borne but I have never been able to substantiate this.' And another researcher who noticed the same thing explained: 'The nasal mucous membranes begin to slough together with blood, pus and [thickened] mucus and discharge of sloughing [shedding] tissue for 10 days.' A woman who suffered from crippling migraines for nine years has finally been diagnosed with a brain tumour after doctors repeatedly dismissed her symptoms as anxiety. Anna Hill, 35, from Bristol, began getting controllable headaches when she was just 12 years old. But she developed near-constant migraines, nausea and exhaustion when she was 26. Medics continuously told her she was just feeling anxious. When Ms Hill was eventually forced to give up her job as a local government officer earlier this year, she paid for a private brain scan, which finally revealed her 1.8cm-deep tumour. The growth is so large only six surgeons in the world can operate on it, she claims on her fundraising page. Due to the operation not being available on the NHS, Ms Hill has to raise 35,000 to have the procedure in Germany. Anna Hill, who suffered from crippling migraines for nine years, has finally been diagnosed with a brain tumour after doctors repeatedly dismissed her symptoms as just 'anxiety' After being forced to give up work earlier this year, Ms Hill had a brain scan done privately. Results show a 1.8cm-deep tumour in the middle of her brain on the gland that regulates sleep Ms Hill's headaches were 'manageable' as a child, however, she noticed medication did nothing to ease her discomfort. The pain gradually became more severe during her teenage and university years, despite her trying countless treatments to try and ease the agony. Ms Hill graduated from Cardiff University in 2006 with a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. Shortly afterwards, additional symptoms suddenly started to develop. 'I moved to Bristol and thought I was ready for my first job, nothing could stand in my way,' Ms Hill said. On her 26th birthday in 2010, Ms Hill developed constant nausea and migraines. 'I felt like I was going to throw up every day, which honestly is quite grim,' she said. Ms Hill was referred to multiple specialists after she started to develop vertigo, blurred vision, tinnitus and extreme fatigue in 2015. 'I couldn't see very well and constantly lost balance - I felt like I was living on a boat,' she said. After going back to her GP in 2017, her symptoms were once again put down to anxiety. 'I ended up feeling like a nuisance as I was passed around all of these specialists,' Ms Hill said. 'It was a hard process. I always hoped they would get to the bottom of it as I had all the tests which you could ever dream of in the doctor's world. 'I kept saying this wasn't normal. Doctors have been listening but they have no clue what to do. 'No one could tell me what was making me feel so sick and eventually my symptoms were put down to anxiety.' As well as being forced to give up work, Ms Hill claims every aspect of her life has been affected by her tumour. 'Over the past six months, I've missed so many important life events of loved ones such as my sister and best friend's weddings and countless others,' she said. 'I have absolutely no quality of life at all.' The growth is so large, only six surgeons in the world can remove it. Due to the operation not routinely being offered on the NHS, Ms Hill is booked to have the procedure done in Germany on November 1. She is speaking out to help fundraise the 35,000 she needs for the surgery Ms Hill claims she has no quality of life and has missed out on so much, including her sister's wedding. For the first time in years, the prospect of surgery has given her hope for the future After giving up her job in January this year, Ms Hill used her private healthcare to have a precautionary brain and MRI scan. Results came back showing a deep tumour in the middle of her brain on the gland that regulates sleep. 'When someone says you have a brain tumour, you automatically think I am going to die,' Ms Hill said. 'However, luckily, doctors said that it was benign, and I sighed with relief. 'It was bittersweet finally getting a diagnosis though and I now realised that how complicated, costly and risky it is to get treated.' Despite being benign, Ms Hill wants treatment to ease the symptoms she has battled with for most of her life. But the private medics who performed the scan told her the surgery is not routinely available on the NHS, she claims. Ms Hill therefore sent her scans to a neurosurgeon in Germany who said the tumour was most likely the cause of her headaches. This claim has been backed by two other specialists in Australia and the US. To pay for the surgery, which is booked to take place on November 1, Ms Hill has launched a fundraising page. 'It could transform my life and years of suffering could finally come to an end and my life could be back on track,' she said. 'For the first time in years, I am starting to feel hopeful and excited and there is a light at the end of the tunnel.' We've all been there. We feel a case of the sniffles, a stomach ache or maybe a fever and turn to Dr Google to try and diagnose ourselves. Now, a new study from Eligibiliy has revealed the symptoms that are most searched in Google in every US state. The symptom most typed into the search engine was 'stress', with one-fifth of states looking up the term in the past year. While most states had common searches, others had more unique ones ranging from 'night sweats' to 'uncircumcised problems' and even two states concerned about the color of their poop. The most-Googled symptom was 'stress' with one-fifth of states searching the term in the past year, according to a new study Residents of particularly South Carolina and Wisconsin were most concerned about the color of their excrement. Wisconsin wanted to know what 'light colored poop' meant whereas South Carolina wanted to learn more about 'dark green stool', the findings showed. Pale stool could mean your biliary system - gallbladder, liver and pancreas - is experiencing problems draining. Poop is a brown color due to bile salts from the liver. If the liver is not producing enough bile, or the flow is blocked, the feces might have a clay-like color. Green stool, on the other hand, could be due to green vegetables such as spinach and lettuce or food passing through the large intestine too quickly for bile to break it down. There were other quite peculiar searches including: 'sweaty palms' in California, 'signs of low testosterone' in Nebraska, 'pregnancy cravings' in Tennessee, and 'uncircumcised problems' in Indiana. Excessively sweaty palms are often a result of a condition known as palmar hyperhidrosis, which is the palms sweat more than is necessary to regulate body temperature. There are a number of underlying causes of palmar hyperhidrosis including anxiety, low blood sugar, stress, thyroid problems, or simply your genes. Indianians searching for 'uncircumcised problems' are likely experiencing either phimosis or paraphimosis. Phimosis occurs when the foreskin is not able to be pulled back behind the head of the penis while paraphimosis is when the foreskin becomes trapped after it's pulled back behind the head. It's unclear whether Tennesseans are searching 'pregnancy cravings' to understand what they are or what most women crave, but they are a real phenomenon. A 2014 study from the University at Albany in New York found that between 50 and 90 percent of women experience cravings and - while it's a mystery as to why - scientists suspect hormones. In Nebraska, people searching for signs of low testosterone likely found that they include: difficulty experiencing an erection, hair loss, fatigue and increased body fat. The most-Googled symptom was 'stress', the primary concern in 10 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Oregon and Virginia. The American Psychological Association's 2017 Stress in America Survey found 'money, work, the current political climate, the future of the nation, and violence and crime' to be the top sources of stress. Negative stress can manifest physically including headaches, elevated blood pressure, and chest pain. These can all raise the risk of - or worsen - diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma and arthritis. Additionally, an increase of cortisol, called the stress hormone, can raise the amount of fat tissue your body and cause you to gain weight. Many used the search engine to look up common symptoms such as stomach ache (Washington, Nevada and Wyoming), fever (Arkansas), chills (Louisiana) and morning sickness (Arizona and Utah). The most searched term in Idaho was 'E. coli symptoms', which makes sense considering the state had a massive outbreak this year. According to the Idaho Department of Health, in March and April, 12 cases were reported in the Gem State due to the Yuma romaine lettuce E coli outbreak. Symptoms of an infection include abdominal cramping or pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. The researchers said they were also amused that 'loss of sleep' was the most-Googled symptom in New York, home of The City That Never Sleeps. To reach their findings, researchers gathered the most frequently searched symptoms of the past year on Google Trends. Then, after grouping similar symptoms together, the terms were run back through Google Trends to determine the states with the highest search volume for each symptom. 'Keep in mind that our findings don't mean these are symptoms most people have in each state, but our results do suggest which symptoms concern a lot of people,' the study authors wrote. They also remind readers that they should take information they garner from the Internet with a grain of salt until they consult a physician. Women tend to live longer than men, and the key may be in the protective effects estrogen has on chromosomes, new research suggests. One of our best gauges of longevity is the length of telomeres, the set of genetic information at the tips of chromosomes. Women's telomeres tend to be longer than men's and to stay that way for longer, though exactly why telomere-length is associated with longer lifespans. Now, new research from the University of California, San Francisco, suggests that estrogen actually stokes the activity of an enzyme that helps to lengthen telomeres and may extend lifespans. Estrogen may promote the health of telomeres, the protective end caps of chromosomes, helping cells to age more slowly, new research suggests On average, women life about five percent longer than men throughout the world, though the gender gap varies significantly from country to country. Experts have blamed this on all manner of environmental differences through the years: men are more likely to drink and smoke more and are at greater risk of developing heart disease. One recent analysis suggested that that gap will close by 2032, as rates of smoking and drinking fall and level out for the two genders. But scientists have also observed that differences in life expectancy mat be coded into the genetics of men and women. They have found a close link between the length of a person's telomeres and the length of their life. Our DNA is encoded in 23 pairs of chromosomes and telomeres are the end caps of those chromosomes. Telomeres are made of the same nucleic acid bases as the rest of human genetic information but their job is a protective one. They keep the precious genetic material in the rest of the chromosome from getting damaged, especially as cells replicate. Replication after replication over time starts to wear down telomemeres. When eventually they become too short to be functional, cells start malfunctioning, in part because their DNA is exposed, so to speak. Without telomeres, cells start to age and die, so these simple end-caps are vital to our health, and also good measures of our overall health and potential longevity. It's not just time, but trauma that ages telomeres. Stress, health problems and poor habits all also wear on telomeres, and, in turn, on our life spans. American life expectancy fell for the second year in a row in 2018, and the gap between men's and women's life expectancies has grown to five years. Women now live to an average age of 81.1, while men only live to be 76.1 years old. Their telomeres reflect this. And the new research from the University of California, San Francisco, suggests that the estrogen might be the secret. The female hormone that gives women their feminine appearances, menstrual cycles, and fertility, may also help to give them longer lives. Estrogen fuels some cancers, but has long been known to have protective effects against other diseases. Higher levels of the hormone are thought to help keep the cardiovascular system in good working order and promote healthier bones. The new research, presented today at the North American Menopause Society annual meeting in San Diego, adds to the list of good things estrogen does the possibility of protecting telomeres. Lead study author Dr Elissa Epel said: 'Some experimental studies suggest estrogen exposure increases the activity of telomerase, the enzyme that can protect and elongate telomeres.' If this is in fact the case, maintaining estrogen levels may become more important to women as they reach menopause and their hormone levels fall. A Wisconsin man who lost his nose, hands and part of his legs after contracting a rare blood infection from dog saliva is vowing to walk again. Greg Manteufel, 48, from West Bend, was rushed to the hospital in June after experiencing flu-like symptoms and bruising that appeared on his arms and legs Doctors told him an infection had spread to all four of his limbs and, due to extensive tissue and muscle damage, they would be forced to amputate all of his limbs. Manteufel was discharged from the Milwaukee-area hospital two weeks ago after three months in the intensive care unit and undergoing at least 10 surgeries - but said the experience hasn't changed how he feels about dogs. Now, he's determined to be fitted with prosthetics so can he can gain back some of the mobility he's lost. Greg Manteufel, 48, (pictured, Tuesday), from West Bend, Wisconsin, who lost his nose, hands and part of his legs after a contracting a rare blood infection from dog saliva is vowing to walk again Manteufel was rushed to the hospital in June after experiencing flu-like symptoms and bruising on his arms and legs. Pictured: Manteufel reuniting with his dog, Ellie Doctors told him an infection had spread to all four of his limbs and, due to extensive tissue and muscle damage, they would be forced to amputate all of his limbs. Pictured: Manteufel, right, in his wheelchair with his wife Dawn Greg's blood infection was caused by capnocytophaga canimorsus, a bacteria found in the mouths of dogs and cats, according to the CDC. One 2014 study from Japan found the bacteria to be present in 69 percent of dogs and 54 percent of cats. The bacteria can be transmitted to humans through bites, licks, or even close proximity with the animal - seeping into the skin even without a cut or scrape. While most people will not exhibit any symptoms if they become infected, it has been shown to cause severe illness in those who have compromised immune systems, according to a 2003 study from France. Dr Silvia Munoz-Price, an infectious disease specialist with Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin, told WITI that Manteufel's immune system response to the infection resulted in his blood pressure dropping and decreased circulation in his limbs. 'More than 99 percent of the people that have dogs will never have this issue. It's just [a fluke],' said Dr Munoz-Price. Greg was told the infection was likely transmitted via a lick from his own dog. Pictured: Greg in the hospital He had amputations on his legs up to his kneecaps (left), his arms up to his mid-forearms and will need extensive plastic surgery on his nose (right). After more than 10 surgeries, he was discharged from the hospital two weeks ago WHAT IS THE BACTERIA FOUND IN DOGS' SALIVA? Capnocytophaga Canimorsus, a bacterial pathogen, is typically found in the saliva of cats and dogs. It has the rare ability to cause disease in healthy individuals but has been known to cause severe illness in people with pre-existing conditions or compromised immune system. The bacteria's transmission can occur through bites, licks or even close proximity to the animals. Symptoms usually appear within one to eight days of exposure, but mostly on the second day. They can range from flu-like symptoms to sepsis. Infection can usually be treated effectively with antibiotics and is recommended for a minimum of three weeks. But thre can be long-term side effects include amputation from gangrene, heart attack, and kidney failure. The faster the infection is diagnosed the better the chance of survival. About 30 percent of all those infected die. Source: CDC Advertisement It is unclear if Manteufel had any pre-existing conditions but he developed sepsis, or blood poisoning, and his nose, both of his hands and his legs beneath his knees turned black. Within a week of being in the hospital, doctors first amputated Manteufel's feet and then his legs up to his kneecaps. Then, three weeks after he was first admitted, both of Manteufel's hands up to his mid palms were amputated. According to a GoFundMe page, doctors were hoping to save the remainder of his arms but, due to extensive damage to the tissue and muscles, both arms up to mid-forearm had to be amputated. Doctors also told Dawn that Manteufel would need extensive plastic surgery to rebuild his nose. After discovering the Manteufels have a pet dog, the medical staff told Dawn that her husband likely was infected after being licked. A family friend has started a GoFundMe page to raise money to help cover his mountain medical bills. So far, more than $135,000 has been raised out of a $250,000 goal. According to the page, Manteufel will be fitted for prosthetic limbs so he can function independently. According to a GoFundMe page started by a family friend, Manteufel (pictured left, with family) will be fitted for prosthetic limbs so he can function independently Last week, Manteufel tearfully reunited with his dog Ellie and said he didn't want people to be scared of dogs just because of what happened to him. Pictured: Greg with Ellie Last week, Manteufel tearfully reunited with his dog Ellie. 'I couldn't wait to see her when I got out of the hospital,' he told WITI as he sat next to his wife in his new electronic wheelchair. 'We don't want people to be scared of their dogs because of what happened to me. 'I'll always love dogs. It's a sad situation but it wasn't the dog's fault. Such a close brush with death has also brought Manteufel and Dawn closer together again after years of marriage. 'When we leave each other now, we make sure we say: "I love you,"' Dawn said. The revolt against the Unilever switch from a FTSE 100 listing to Rotterdam grows by the day. The latest opponent is Janus Henderson-managed investment trust, City of London, which is popular with private investors. Also raising strong objections is trade body Pimfa which represents wealth managers and financial advisers. It says the whole process is an affront to shareholder democracy. The noise does not necessarily guarantee victory for the dissidents. The revolt against the Unilever ditching its UK base and basing itself in its Rotterdam headquarters (pictured) grows by the day Dutch and European institutions who might regard Rotterdam as a feather in the EU cap have been silent. And boss Paul Polman has been working intensely with American investors to convince them of the governance benefits. Dove-to-Marmite giant Unilever is not the only FTSE 100 company struggling with the issue of a double quote. Under pressure from activist investor Elliott, the mining group BHP Billiton also is being encouraged to leave the FTSE 100 and adopt a single quote in Australia. Much of BHPs business is in Asia-Pacific. But Elliott ignores the fact that London is the preferred home for natural resources companies. These include Rio Tinto, Glencore, Anglo American, Randgold and others traversing the globe. A City presence means deeper analytical capacity, greater access to fund-raising and deal-making and an ability for fund managers to compare, contrast and switch holdings. Consultants FTI estimated a 16.9billion potential uplift in value if a single listing were to be created for BHP. But the company believes the expense and risks of overhauling the current structure far outweigh the benefits. Moreover, a behemoth of BHPs size would overwhelm the key Aussie index, making up to 15 per cent of the market. With so much value in one stock it would hardly make the Aussie index very attractive to investors desiring to diversify risk. There are doubtless other actions that BHP could take to realise more value for investors. But unification of the quotation on the ASX in Sydney makes no more sense than Unilever washing its hands of the FTSE 100. BHPs board is right to hold the line and reject Elliotts entreaties. Last post The 1.2billion hit to the Royal Mail share price since it revealed a nasty profits warning late on Monday is shocking. All of the reasons behind that warning point to management bungling. The slump in marketing mailings as a result of the new EU data storage rules, GDPR, should have been predictable. Equally perplexing is the scrapping of targets for 230m of cost savings this year. All of this puts the Royal Mails status as a FTSE 100 company in danger. The retreat in the Royal Mails fortunes also demonstrates one of the risks in John McDonnells proposal to hand over 10pc of the shares in UK-owned companies with more than 250 workers to employees. The posties were given 10pc of Royal Mail stock on privatisation in 2013 and have lost a fortune in a matter of days. Contrast the poor fortunes of the postal workers with those of Royal Mail bosses. Moya Greene sailed off into the sunset in June with a golden goodbye of 1million and other awards, which could bring her total pay up to 2.3million. Her departure was rapidly followed by the choice of Rico Back as chief executive, with a golden hello of 6million. This led to one of the biggest shareholder revolts in corporate history followed by the resignation of chairman Peter Long. At the very least pay committee chair Orna Ni-Chionna ought to look at a clawback of unjustified payments to Greene and Back. If that is too hard then she should do the honourable thing and return to sender. Living better Amazon has thrown down the gauntlet to other UK employers by lifting the minimum wage for all its workforce, including temporary and seasonal employees. In London it zips up to 10.50-an-hour outjumping the 10.20 of the Living Wage Foundation and the 8.75 National Living Wage in London a legacy of George Osborne. Outside the capital Amazon is pledging 9.50 an hour. Critics will say Amazon can afford to be generous because it pays minimal corporation tax and wins from lower business rates because it operates from warehouse space rather than the High Street. Maybe. But it will mean more spending power for Amazon workers and could begin the process of restoring squeezed household incomes. Two cheers . . . Don't be evil was Google's unofficial motto until spring this year. Yet the firm pries on users' data to sell tightly targeted advertising and, in July, it was fined 4.34billion (3.86billion) by the European Commission for abusing its market dominance. Ethics is a difficult concept in the world of business. Occasionally, I've considered rearranging my investments to avoid those whose practices I despise. Tobacco and gambling top my list. I'm also a bit of a 'green', as you probably guessed if you've read about my solar panels. Addictive: Fixed-odds betting terminals make huge amounts of money for gambling firms - and in turn benefit their investors - but they have been dubbed the 'crack cocaine of gambling' I have concentrated on the financial gains, but how else do I get a piece on green energy past the watchful eyes of the Money Mail editor? But when we choose investment funds, rather than individual shares, exclusion can be fiendishly difficult. The likes of British American Tobacco (BAT), Philip Morris International, another tobacco company, and gambling firms Ladbrokes, William Hill and Paddy Power are lurking in most successful funds. Kicking out tobacco would mean knocking most income funds on the head. I did very well in the early 2000s with Invesco Perpetual Income, then managed by Neil Woodford, but I have already sold these and Woodford's current income fund. Those still sucked in by tobacco should note the outlook isn't good as vaping steals the market. Traditionally, ethical investing meant a small world of funds with erratic performance. However, the ethically based FTSE4Good Index, with a 137 per cent return over ten years, has almost matched the FTSE All Share. The U.S. FTSE4Good has returned 353 per cent over ten years, compared with 323 pc for the S&P 500 Index. I can see little argument for excluding all oil or mining firms. Most of us drive, we need to heat our homes and Mrs H is partial to the odd gemstone. Others would disagree. I would prefer my investments targeted towards companies with good employment practices and environmental records, though. Adrian Lowcock, Willis Owen's head of personal investing, ran me through some approaches. You can screen out companies that are seen as unethical or not environmentally friendly. There's responsible or sustainable investing, which looks at environmental, social and governance factors (so-called ESG). This looks at how companies behave. Then there is impact investing, which means positive screening for firms you feel are doing the right things. So, how difficult is it now to invest ethically? Well, Royal London runs a UK FTSE4Good fund. But it is expensive for a tracker, with a 1.5 per cent annual charge and it's not readily available on most investment platforms. Performance is also quite weak over five years, at 33.6 per cent growth. But it was better over ten years, at 101.4 per cent, according to Thomson Reuters Lipper. Legal & General Ethical takes the 350 biggest UK companies, then excludes those involved in water pollution, intensive farming, gambling, pornography, weapons manufacturing or tobacco sales. It charges 0.69 per cent or less on some platforms. Over five years, it has returned 38.1 per cent and, over ten years, 151.9 per cent. To compare, L&G's normal UK Index fund can boast 39.8 per cent over five years and 130 per cent over ten. BlackRock offers iShares basically funds that trade on a stock exchange which track ethical and sustainable indices. One firm that's put considerable effort into checking out environmental, social and governance factors is Hermes Investment Management. Lewis Grant, global equities senior portfolio manager, says: 'We believe our responsibilities as investors do not stop with a decision to buy or sell a stock. 'We must act as engaged owners of the companies in which we are invested and the assets that we manage. 'This means engaging in constructive dialogue and taking action through our ownership rights.' Its Impact Opportunities fund is up 14 per cent since launching last December. The evil weed: But kicking out tobacco would mean knocking most income funds on the head Mr Lowcock mentions two funds. For the cautious, Kames Ethical Cautious Managed applies a strict ethical filter that excludes mining and energy stocks, tobacco and banks with investment operations. 'The fund tends to have a bias towards mid and smaller companies, as well as favouring cyclical stocks,' he says. Returns reflect the caution with 30.3 per cent over five years, but 116 per cent over ten. For a global view, Stewart Investors Worldwide Sustainability Fund will, says Mr Lowcock, 'take account of sustainability themes and issues and requires positive engagement with companies in respect of these'. It has returned 78 per cent in five years. Foreign & Colonial runs a range called Responsible funds. Its Responsible Global Equity has roughly doubled investors' money in five years. The average global unit trust has returned 65 per cent over five years. So, where does this leave me? Like many, I would love to invest more ethically. But I still feel there is a lack of choice. From now on, I plan to avoid putting new money into funds that are heavily investing in tobacco or gambling. But the fundamental question for the investment industry, whether they be running actively managed funds or trackers, is this: why do you make it so damned hard for us to be good? t.hazell@dailymail.co.uk Thousands of Ryanair customers are being urged to claim compensation after their flights were cancelled during strike action last Friday. Up to 250 flights did not take off as a result of the 24-hour walk-out in European countries including Spain, Italy and Portugal. Ryanair is refusing to pay compensation because the strikes, carried out by a tiny minority of staff, were out of its control. Ryanair refused to pay compensation to customers whose flights were delayed as a result of strikes - but the CAA said passengers should apply anyway But the aviation watchdog is advising passengers that they should still make a claim. A spokesman for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) says: Passengers have the right to seek compensation under EU legislation when flights are delayed by three hours or more, cancelled or when they are denied boarding. It is our view that when a flight cancellation is caused by strike action by the airlines employees, the airline is required to pay compensation if it has not warned passengers of the cancellation at least two weeks prior to the scheduled time of departure. If you have already complained to Ryanair and are unhappy with the response, refer your case to the Aviation Alternative Dispute Resolution service. You can do this for free online at aviationadr.org.uk or call 0203 540 8063. Unilever bosses have been branded out of touch with shareholders amid growing opposition to plans to axe its British headquarters. The Anglo-Dutch company, whose brands include Marmite, Domestos and PG Tips, wants to abandon its legal home in the UK and base itself solely in the Netherlands. But the proposals have faced opposition from British shareholders with a string of major City institutions including Aviva Investors, Legal & General Investment Management and M&G vowing to block the move. Under fire: Unilever investors have criticised the way bosses, including chief exec Paul Polman (pictured), have treated them over the firm's plan to abandon its UK base With another fund manager joining the rebellion yesterday, there is a real risk that Unilever will lose a vote later this month. Taking aim at Unilever bosses, Job Curtis, who runs the City of London Investment Trust, said: It feels that they are out of touch with shareholders. They have not done their homework. Curtiss 1.5billion fund is part of savings firm Janus Henderson and owns fewer than 0.1 per cent of Unilever shares on the London Stock Exchange. Columbia Threadneedle which had previously only said it had concerns said yesterday it is now voting against the move. City sources said that Unilever bosses sound increasingly downhearted in talks about the plans. One insider said: Its as if they feel theyve lost already. The comments came as a financial adviser trade body criticised the voting arrangements amid fears that ordinary investors are being denied a fair say. Unilever chairman Marijn Dekkers (left) and chief financial officer Graeme Pitkethly (right) have been leading a charm offensive in London that has failed to impress The mounting opposition betrays deep anger over the way the plans have been handled by Unilever bosses. It is feared that ditching the UK will expose British investors to punishing Dutch taxes, although Unilever insists they will be protected. The stock will be removed from the FTSE 100 index if it axes its UK base as it will no longer be a British company meaning many investment funds will be forced to sell their holdings for whatever price they can get. Tug of war: Unilever's proposals to abandon its legal home in the UK and base itself solely in the Netherlands have faced opposition from British shareholders Unilever chairman Marijn Dekkers and chief financial officer Graeme Pitkethly have been leading a charm offensive in London that has failed to impress, and both could face calls to quit. Chief executive Paul Polman spent much of last week at a United Nations conference in New York, where he also met US shareholders. One senior insider said: The way the company has engaged with shareholders has gone down really badly. Where is Paul Polman? If hes this great chief executive, why isnt he here? Unilever must win the support of investors who hold 75 per cent of its London shares for the move to take place. It must also get backing from more than 50pc of individual shareholders who vote. Shares fell 0.6 per cent, or 27p, to 4200.5p yesterday. A Unilever spokesman said: We have held around 200 meetings with shareholders over the last six months and will continue to engage extensively in the weeks ahead. Tens of thousands of Amazon's British workers are to be handed a pay rise after it bowed to criticism over low wages. The online retailer said its staff in London would receive a minimum of 10.50 an hour from November 1, with those outside the capital earning at least 9.50 per hour. It means some 37,000 will receive an increase of at least 18.8 per cent, the company said. In the US Amazon is also increasing its lowest wage to $15 (11.50) per hour. Amazon said staff in London would receive a minimum of 10.50 an hour from November 1, with those outside the capital earning at least 9.50 per hour The pay rise follows criticism of pay and 'horrendous' working conditions at the firm's warehouses. Jeff Bezos, Amazon's boss and the world's richest man, said: 'We listened to our critics, thought hard about what we wanted to do, and decided we want to lead.' Under the changes, a share scheme will be phased out and replaced with a stock purchase plan, Amazon added. Tim Roache, GMB general secretary, said: 'I'm glad Amazon has heeded GMB union's long-standing calls to pay people, at the very least, the minimum they need to live. Though given their owner is the richest man in the world you'd think he could see fit to dig a little deeper but it's a start.' The statutory living wage for adults is 7.83 an hour, while rates recommended by the Living Wage Foundation are 10.20 per hour in London and 8.75 outside the capital. Royal Mail was last night accused of handing its current and former bosses huge rewards for failure after a shock profit warning sent shares crashing 25pc. Nearly 1.2billion has been wiped off the value of the company since Monday afternoon when boss Rico Back revealed profits would come in between 500million and 550million this year well below the 694million it made last year. To make matters worse for investors, analysts believe the dividend could be under threat, while households also face the prospect of paying higher prices for stamps as Royal Mail seeks to bolster its finances. Under fire: Outgoing Royal Mail chief exec Moya Greene and head of the remuneration committee Orna Ni Chionna The turmoil sparked a further backlash over fat-cat pay at the delivery firm. Royal Mail suffered one of the biggest shareholder revolts in UK corporate history over the summer when 70 per cent of investors voted against excessive pay in the boardroom including a 2.4million golden goodbye for outgoing chief executive Moya Greene and a 6million golden hello for Back, her replacement, who started in June. Last night critics said those pay deals, signed off by former chairman Peter Long, his replacement Les Owen and Orna Ni-Chionna, head of the remuneration committee, seemed even more egregious in light of the company's plummeting fortunes. Cliff Weight, from individual shareholder society Sharesoc, said: 'With the benefit of hindsight, it rather looks like rewards for failure. The remuneration committee has serious questions to answer and I will be going to the next AGM to ask them.' Under a deal struck with the Government before Royal Mail was privatised, Greene was handed a 914,000 payment for loss of office after she stepped down on June 1. Separately she also continued to collect her bonus and salary until September as well as being in line for a possible 251,951 shares depending on performance. Their value has fallen by about 298,000 in the past few days to about 903,000. Back, 64, who is running Royal Mail from his home in Zurich, was paid 6million to buy him out of his contract with Royal Mail subsidiary GLS. Shares eventually recovered yesterday to end the day down 8.4 per cent, or 32.8p, at 358.6p. A Royal Mail spokesman said: 'It is right to honour contractual entitlements, as we would for any employee. 'Our strong balance sheet and long-term cash generation characteristics support our commitment to our progressive dividend policy.' Investor panic: Italian borrowing costs have surged to their highest in more than four years Italian borrowing costs have surged to their highest in more than four years as investors panic over the future of the country. Investors dumped government bonds over fears Italys ruling anti-establishment coalition is about to embark on a dangerous spending spree. The parties in power have said they plan to run a budget deficit of 2.4 per cent next year spooking international markets because it already has a massive 2.1 trillion debt pile. There are also fears the European Union will not tolerate the plan, triggering a confrontation which could reignite the eurozone crisis. Fears were stoked after Claudio Borghi of the ruling League party, said: I am very convinced that with its own currency Italy would solve the majority of its problems. But Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte insisted Italy is committed to the euro. The jitters pushed the yields on ten-year bonds which rise during a sell-off as the price of debt falls up above 3.4 per cent, their highest since March 2014. Deal: Canadian leader Justin Trudeau embraces Shell Gas boss Maarten Wetselaar Shell has given the go-ahead for a 23.9billion project to sell gas from Canada around the world. The project will see natural gas from vast basins piped to a plant in Kitimat, British Columbia, where it will be cooled to liquid form and shipped overseas, particularly to Asian markets. The first liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the LNG Canada project is expected before 2025, ahead of a likely boom in demand for the fuel from buyers in China especially. Shipping times to parts of Asia from Canada are about 40 per cent faster than from the US Gulf Coast, the oil supermajor said, giving the project a key advantage. Anglo-Dutch Shells partners on the project are Malaysias Petroliam Nasional, Petro China, Korea Gas Corp and Japans Mitsubishi. The full cost has not been disclosed but has been estimated at around 23.9billion. Shell has a 40 per cent stake in the project. Analysts expect demand for liquefied natural gas to grow from 290m tonnes in 2017 to nearly 450m tonnes in 2025. Shells chief executive Ben van Beurden said: We believe LNG Canada is the right project, in the right place, at the right time. Shares in Aston Martin went into reverse today as the stock fell 5 per cent after the prestige car firm made its 4.3billion stock market debut. The carmaker priced its initial public offering at 19 a share but saw shares tumble by 85p to 1,815p, as the market seemed to decide the float price might have been too high. Earlier this week, the British-based carmaker had to trim its pricing guidance for the IPO after gathering feedback from potential investors. The group narrowed the range of its initial public offering from between 17.50 and 22.50 a share to between 18.50 and 20 a share. Under the previous estimates, the firm would have been valued at over 5billion. Debut: Luxury car group Aston Martin has kicked-off its debut on the London Stock Exchange with a price of 19 a share But investors and analysts are concerned about the risks related to its bullish plans for rolling out new models: Aston Martin plans to make a big new launch every year from to 2022. 'Aston Martin has very aggressive growth plans,' James Congdon of cashflow returns specialist Quest told Reuters news agency. 'The execution of that growth needs to be flawless - nothing eats cash more than a car company when the cycle turns. There is concern that its more cyclical than the commentary has been. 'The banks have done a good job for their client - but theres no bounce.' As it stands, the group is not currently eligible for listing on the blue chip FTSE 100 index. Aston Martin has sold around 25 per cent of its shares, with the offer open to institutional investors, company staff, customers and members of the Aston Martin Owners Club resident in the UK. Private investors will be eligible to buy shares from Monday. Germany's Daimler AG will remain a stakeholder and will not sell down its holding as part of the IPO. The company will instead convert its current non-voting stake of 4.9 per cent to shares. Commenting on the group's share price this morning, Michael Hewson, chief market analyst at CMC Markets UK, said: 'The early price action has seen the shares turn lower in early trading after pushing up to 1,915p initially. 'In the short term this might suggest that the shares may have been priced at too high a level but even Ferrari when it first floated in 2015 saw its share price fall 40% in the first six months of trading, from $50 to a low of just above $30 a share.' He added: 'Putting that to one side the prognosis does look positive with demand highest in the UK, US and China and the average selling price up 11 per cent to 160k per car, which helped push its first half profit for this year to 106m, helped by sales of the new Vantage and DBS, as well as the existing DB11.' Aston Martin, which has a long link with James Bond films, has gone bust seven times in its 105 year history. Chief executive Andy Palmer said: 'Today's listing on the London Stock Exchange represents a historic milestone for Aston Martin Lagonda.' History: Aston Martin, which has a long link with James Bond films, has gone bust seven times in its 105 year history In the first half of the year, Aston Martin reported a pre-tax profit of 20.8million on revenue of 449.9million. Operating profits rose 14 per cent to 106million. Jasper Lawler, of London Capital Group, said: 'The first public listing of a British carmaker in decades has the kind of 'dinner party' appeal that few IPOs share. Aston Martin is one of the most hotly anticipated IPOs this year. 'The British carmaker is in rude financial health. Foreign demand is on the up with 10 new or refurbished showrooms planned for China alone. Funds from the IPO will aid Aston Martin's growth prospects, with plans to increase production by opening a second factory in Glamorgan.' Help To Buy homeowners who want to switch to a cheaper mortgage face long delays and hefty administration fees costing them hundreds of pounds. It typically takes around three months to switch your mortgage to a new lender, or about a month if you are remortgaging with your existing bank. But experts warn this process could take double the usual time for Help To Buy borrowers, because it is more convoluted. Help to Buy homeowners face long delays if they looking to change to a cheaper mortgage Those who do not leave enough time to complete the complex paperwork risk ending up on their bank's standard variable rate, which is typically far more expensive. Homeowners may also find they have to pay large administration fees and that their choice of deals is very limited. The Help To Buy scheme was launched in 2013 to help kick-start the housing market. Families received a Government loan for 20 per cent of the property value, or up to 40 per cent for a house in London, and the debt was interest-free for five years. It meant that they could then get a mortgage from a bank or building society with just a 5 per cent deposit. However, unlike with a normal mortgage, the Government was given a stake in the buyer's home. So, if the value of the property rose, the buyer would have to pay back more than the sum they borrowed but if it dropped, they would pay back less. Now, as the interest-free period comes to an end for the first 14,000 borrowers, they face a host of hidden problems. When they signed up to the scheme, house prices were forecast to rise. This was supposed to help buyers build up equity they could then use to pay off their debt to the Government. However, the market has been stagnant in many areas and not everyone has seen the value of their home go up. So, as the first wave of five-year government loans comes to an end, some borrowers instead face the prospect of remortgaging without repaying any of the debt. Homeowners who cannot yet repay their government loan face interest set at 1.75 per cent. On a 40,000 debt, this would equate to 700 a year. These homeowners also face a limited choice, because only around 40 out of the 316 Help To Buy deals on the market allow borrowers to remortgage without paying off any of their equity loan. James Chidgey, new homes and Help To Buy manager at the Mortgage Advice Bureau, says: 'Mortgage lenders would rather you pay off the loan in full. 'It's not fair on borrowers that so many mortgage lenders want to help them buy a home, but will not help with their remortgaging options.' What you need to know about Help to Buy Help to Buy is hugely controversial but it has also done what it says on the tin by helping a lot of people to buy homes. So, is borrowing 20 per cent interest-free for five years to buy a new-build home a decent deal as a buyer? What are the things you need to consider before signing up? And why is it considered a bad economic move? Find out that and more on this special excerpt from the This is Money podcast. Press play above or listen (and please subscribe if you like the podcast) at Apple Podcasts, Acast, Spotify and Audioboom or visit our This is Money Podcast page. Experts say that even those who are able to repay their loan in part or full also face expensive fees and limited deals. If you can repay the loan in full, you will first need to instruct an independent valuer to work out what your property is worth. This is so Homes England can work out the current value of the stake that it holds in your home. You must then send Homes England this figure, along with your mortgage and solicitor details, as well as a cheque for a 200 admin fee. Homes England will then calculate how much you owe the Government and provide your solicitor with a final settlement figure. This is supposed to be done within seven to 14 days but Daniel Bailey, managing director of the mortgage broker Middleton Finance, says the process can often take as long as six months and cost five times as much as a standard remortgage. Mr Bailey says: 'A straightforward remortgage often comes with a free valuation and money towards solicitor fees. But a homeowner I recently advised paid 1,100 as she had to pay for the independent valuation and her new mortgage deal did not come with free legal support because she was repaying her government loan in full.' Help to Buy scheme has helped home owners get on the ladder but now issues are arising However, if you can clear the full loan balance, there are around 15 lenders and dozens of Help To Buy remortgage deals for borrowers with a 10 per cent deposit to pick from. If you decide that you want to repay part of your government loan, then you must be able to repay at least 50 per cent of it in one go. There are only six lenders, including Barclays, TSB, Halifax and Newcastle BS, that offer remortgage deals where you can repay just part of your Help To Buy loan. The Government has set up a website to explain to Help To Buy borrowers how to remortgage. Alternatively, call 0345 848 0235 or write to: Target HCA, PO Box 911, Newport NP20 9PA. Mr Bailey adds: 'I would urge anyone with a Help To Buy mortgage to get expert help from an adviser and start looking for a new deal six months ahead of their fixed rate coming to end to avoid paying higher standard variable rate interest.' by CHARLES REISS, Evening Standard Saddam Hussein's armoury of chemical weapons is on standby for use within 45 minutes, Tony Blair's dossier revealed today. The Iraqi leader has 20 missiles which could reach British military bases in Cyprus, as well as Israel and Nato members Greece and Turkey. He has also been seeking to buy uranium from Africa for use in nuclear weapons. Those are the key charges in a 14-point "dossier of death" finally published by the Government today. In an introduction, Mr Blair says that the evidence leaves Britain and the international community no choice but to act. The central charges against Saddam are set out at the startof the document. They include: Plans for the use of chemical and biological weapons, some deployable within 45 minutes. Evidence he has retained up to 20 al-Hussein missiles from the Gulf War. These could be used with chemical, biological or nuclear warheads and with a range of 650 kilometres, could reach "the UK sovereign base areas in Cyprus and Nato members Greece and Turkey as well as all Iraq's neighbours". Evidence he has "sought significant amounts of uranium from Africa". Work to extend the range of the al-Samud liquid propellant missile to at least 200 kilometres. These and the other charges are amplified in the 55-page dossier.The Prime Minister's forew ord says: "I believe that, faced with the inform ation available to me, the United Kingdom government has been right to support the demand that this issue is confronted and dealt with. " We must ensure that he [Saddam] does not get to use the weapons he has, or get hold of the weapons he wants." Critics, however, said that the dossier - entitled Iraq's Weapons of Mass Destruction, The Assessment of the British Government - failed to produce a new "killer fact" to justify all-out war to topple Saddam. Some defence experts also acknowledged that much of the inform ation was already known. Mr Blair, however, says that the document, based on the work of the Joint Intelligence Committee at the heart of the British intelligence machine, demonstrates that the Iraqi regime is "a current and serious threat to the UK national interest". The dossier goes further - to document Iraq's human rights abuses, with horrific individual accounts of tortures and mass executions. It also uses extraordinary means to show the almost farcical lengths to which Saddam has gone to hide the evidence of his weapons programme. The report includes a map of one of the dictator's "presidential palaces", from which UN weapons inspectors have alw ays been barred on the grounds that they are Saddam's private homes. The map shows an area of just one of the "palaces" with the total area of Buckingham Palace and its grounds superimposed as a white blob. It shows that the Queen's London home and its grounds would fit comfortably into a tiny corner of one of Saddam's properties. The dossier says that Iraq has developed mobile military laboratories to assist the use of nerve gas or chemical agents to maximum effect and with maximum speed. It continues: "Intelligence indicates that the Iraqi military are able to deploy chemical or biological weapons within 45 minutes of an order to do so." It suggests that, without the necessary-weapons grade uranium, Iraq is five years aw ay from producing its own nuclear bomb. It acknowledges thatif the material could be obtained, that time span would narrow sharply to as little as 12 months. It says that since the weapons inspectors left in 1998 "there has been an accumulation of intelligence indicating that Iraq is making concerted covert efforts to acquire dual use technology and materials with nuclear applications ... there is intelligence that Iraq has sought the supply of significant quantities of uranium from Africa." Earlier, as MPs assembled for today's one-day emergency debate, Labour dissidents warned it would take more than a recital of Saddam's past misdeeds to convince them. MP and former minister Glenda Jackson said the document must provide "contemporary, verifiable evidence that Saddam Hussein is a clear, present danger". Otherwise, she made clear, she and scores of others would rise in mass revolt against any move to military action to topple the regime. Tonight's vote,at 10pm, will be on a technical move to adjourn the debate but even so up to 60 Labour MPs are threatening to rebel. The latest opinion-poll carried a warning for Mr Blair of a similar mood among the voters. T he ICM poll in The Guardian show ed 46 per cent against toppling the Iraq regime byforce, up six points on a week ago, with 37 per cent in favour, up one point. The survey suggests, though, that public opinion is still "soft" on the issue with the argument open to be won. Trouble in the Cabinet appeared to have been defused for the time being, how ever, after a session of almost two hours last night. All concerned were said to have accepted the policy of "containing" Saddam had failed and he had to be stopped. One of the Cabinet's two leading doves, International Development Secretary Clare Short, emerged to say: "We had a good discussion. We all agreed." Ms Short had held a 20-minute private meeting with Mr Blair beforehand. The other most prominent soft-liner, Leader of the Commons Robin Cook, also let it be known that he had no intention of resigning. Iraq said today that the government dossier was "baseless". "Mr Blair is acting as part of the Zionist campaign against Iraq and all his claims are baseless," Iraqi culture minister Hamed Yousif Hummadi said. An underwear model has filed suit against Jockey, claiming the company is using his photos without permission, causing him to lose out on other jobs, DailyMail.com can disclose. Francois Angoston signed a $15,000 contract with Jockey granting the underwear giant to use his images from September 2016 to September 2017 in any form the company wished. When the agreement expired, Jockey chose not to renew the contract to allow them to continue using the photos, according to court papers filed by Angoston and his modeling agency Major Model Management Inc. However, Jockey continued to use the former boxer's images, and ads featuring Angoston were seen on display as recently as of May, harming his career and costing him at least $1 million, he claims. Francois Angoston filed suit against Jockey, claiming the company is using his photos without permission, causing him to lose out on other jobs, DailyMail.com can disclose. Pictured: Jockey ads in question featuring the former boxer Angoston and Major Model Management say in court papers: '[Jockey] damaged Angoston's career and have prevented Angoston from providing modeling services for other related men's apparel companies and have type-cast Angoston as ''the face of Jockey'' against his will' Jockey has continued to use his images as of recently as May, Angoston claims, harming his career and costing him at least $1 million According to court papers obtained by DailyMail.com, the model and his agency claim Angoston, who is from Guadeloupe and lives in New Jersey, is seen as 'the face of Jockey against his will'. They also claim that his association with the company leaves him unable to book other jobs with clothing brands because they think he has 'endorsed' Jockey. Angoston and Major Model Management say in court papers: '[Jockey] damaged Angoston's career and have prevented Angoston from providing modeling services for other related men's apparel companies, designers and advertisers, and have type-cast Angoston as ''the face of Jockey'' against his will.' The continued usage of Angoston's images 'misrepresents and falsely suggests... Angoston has endorsed or is otherwise affiliated with Jockey and creates a likelihood of confusion'. Angoston claims that his association with the company leaves him unable to book other jobs with clothing brands because they still think he has 'endorsed' Jockey Angoston, who is from Guadeloupe and lives in New Jersey, is seen as 'the face of Jockey against his will' and is unable to book other jobs, he claims The court papers add: 'Defendants' conduct as described above was done knowingly, willfully, and/or in a grossly reckless disregard for Angoston's rights and the impact it would have on his being able to appear in future mens apparel campaigns. 'As a result of Defendants' conduct, Plaintiff Angoston has suffered damages in an amount to be ascertained, but upon information and belief no less than $1,000,000.00.' Angoston, who boasts of an Instagram following of more than 33,000 people, worked as a boxer before transitioning over into modelling. According to his social media profile, he spent 23 years in the sport and even lived in Paris to join the French national team. Namibia is set to follow in South Africa's footsteps with a pledge to take white-owned land and redistribute it to the majority black population. President of Namibia, Hage Geingob, vowed to push ahead with land expropriation during a speech on Monday. His call to redress this 'historical inequality' echo the government of neighbouring South Africa, where the issue has become a fierce political battleground. Namibia, which was ruled by colonial Germany and then apartheid South Africa until 1990, has large swathes of agricultural land, as well as major diamond and platinum mining industries. Namibia President Hage Geingob, seen at the UN, said he would push ahead with land distribution, citing the 'fundamental issue' of 'inequality' Geingob called for a change to the constitution to allow the Namibian government to expropriate land from white citizens and redistribute it to the majority black population. He said at the opening of a national conference in Windhoek to discuss new land policy: 'Many Namibians were driven off their productive land. 'The fundamental issue is the inequality. We also share a burning land issue and a radicalised distribution of land resources with South Africa. 'This comes from a common history of colonial dispossession. What we also agree to is that the status quo will not be allowed to continue.' Namibia's President Hage Geingob said he did want the 'colonial status quo' to continue Thousands of black Namibians were driven off their land during Germany's colonisation of the country in the 19th and 20th centuries, with many ending up were dead or forced to live in barren areas. Geinob added that 'careful consideration should be given to expropriation', but urged that the process remain peaceful. The conference has been boycotted by several traditional leaders, civil society organisations and political parties for allegedly having predetermined outcomes. Traditional leaders have called on the government to resettle people on land that belonged to their ancestors. The Namibian government plans to transfer nearly half of its arable agricultural land - 15 million hectares - to disadvantaged black citizens South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who faces elections in 2019, has said expropriating farms without compensating their owners would 'undo a grave historical injustice' against the black majority during colonialism and the apartheid era. The Namibian government plans to transfer nearly half of its arable agricultural land - 15 million hectares (58,000 square miles) - to disadvantaged black citizens. Statistics from the Namibia Agriculture Union showed that 27 per cent of land had been redistributed by the end of 2015. Political parties and NGOs have criticised the government's attempts to change land reform measures. A town mayor in the south of Italy, known for his innovative approach to welcoming asylum seekers, was put under house arrest on Tuesday for allegedly favouring illegal migration, angering supporters but pleasing the anti-immigration interior minister. Domenico Lucano, 60, mayor of Riace, a hilltop medieval town in Italy's poor Calabria region, was put under home confinement by the finance police in the early hours, the local prosecutor's office said. A statement said Lucano and his partner, Tesfahun Lemlem, had organised arranged marriages with 'particular ruthlessness' between local citizens and immigrant women and had set up 'simple yet efficient' systems aimed at bypassing rules for migrants to be granted entrance to Italy. Riace mayor Domenico 'Mimmo' Lucano has made headlines for welcoming hundreds of migrants to his small southern Italian town Lemlem was banned from living in the town area, it added. The prosecutor's statement also accused him of fraudulently farming out the local waste management to two co-operatives rather than carrying out the required tenders and said a broader enquiry would look into the possible mismanagement of public funds, earmarked for migration projects. With Lucano as mayor, Riace has made headlines for opening its doors to thousands of refugees, integrating them into society and revitalising a dwindling rural population. Over 300 citizens of Riace's 2,000 inhabitants currently are immigrants, deputy mayor Giuseppe Gervasi told Reuters. He said that over the years the town had welcomed hundreds more but that many had then moved on to other European countries, including Britain, Norway and Sweden. Riace's model jars with a clampdown on irregular immigration by the national government, which last week approved a decree aimed at cutting the number of asylums granted and doubling detention time for irregular migrants. He was placed under house arrest on Wednesday for allegedly arranging marriages so more migrants could enter Italy 'Gosh, I wonder what ... all the goody-goodies that would like to fill Italy with migrants will say,', Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said on Twitter in reaction to news of Lucano's house arrest. Since taking office in June, Salvini has led a campaign to stop the movement of humanitarian rescue ships out of Italy's ports. The party he leads, the far-right League, has promised to deport hundreds of thousands of irregular migrants. Deputy Minister Luigi Di Maio said there should not be political speculation over the arrest and that the government had no role in the investigation, but that the event should rather raise the issue of transparency in the management funds for migrants. Lucano, who has been mayor since 2002, was listed by Fortune as one of the world's top 50 leaders in 2016. It was not immediately possible to reach his lawyer. His house arrest led to uproar on social media. Writer Roberto Saviano said on Twitter that Lucano was guilty only of 'disobeying and saving human lives and welcoming them (migrants).' '... (Lucano's) model of integration for migrants has been long under attack, and today his arrest is on the grounds of the paradoxical accusation of favouring illegal immigration,' said Fiom, the biggest Italian metalworkers union, in support of the mayor. The group called for national mobilisation against racism and in favour of migrants' rights to live and work in Italy. This is definitely not the place to pick a fight with strangers. From toddlers to pensioners, from street vendors to random farmers, everybody at Daxi village in China's Guangxi province is kung fu fighting. All of Daxi's 8,000 residents practise martial arts twice a day - once in the morning and once in the evening - leading the community to be called the 'kung fu village'. Every resident in Daxi, China, practises kung fu in a tradition that has been kept for 150 years A fruit vendor practises rod fighting next to his stall on a street in Daxi in Guangxi province It is said that people in Daxi started practising kung fu after a Shaolin monk moved to the place in south China about 150 years ago in the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1912). The kung fu monk, Tang Laoshun, had to escape Shaolin Temple after it was repressed by the imperial armies for having attempted to overthrow the Emperor. Zhong Molin, a respectful kung fu master in Daxi, told the local Yulin News that Tang was constantly bullied by the locals when he first moved to Daxi. However, he fended off the locals effortlessly with his excellent martial arts skills. Once Tang used a pair of chopsticks to catch every single rock thrown at him by the locals; and another time, weapon-less Tang defeated the village's best kung fu fighter who came armed with a long rod, Mr Zhong said. Stunned by Tang's supreme moves, the residents of Daxi decided to practise kung fu with Tang and the tradition has been kept until today. A chicken farmer sharpens his skills while looking after his birds in the 'kung fu village' in China The village's ancestral temple is the main venue for residents to learn martial arts skills Mr Zhong is a sixth-generation kung fu descendant in Daxi and runs a class in the village teaching literature and martial arts to young people. He said residents in the village had the habit of practising kung fu for half an hour in the morning and half an hour in the evening. Apparently, they specialise in different weapons from rods to spikes to sabers, all kept in the village's ancestral shrine. 'Our ancestral temple is our main venue of teaching kung fu,' Mr Zhong said to Yulin News, adding that people could also practise at their homes, on their farm or by their street stalls. There is another theory on why everybody likes martial arts in Daxi. With a history of more than 700 years, Daxi village is situated at the foot of the Liuwan Mountain. Daxi locals started learning kung fu after a monk moved there from Shaolin Temple (file photo) Liang Yuancheng, a seventh-generation descendant, told Hong Kong's Wen Wei Po that his ancestors had to protect their land from thugs frequently, which made them good fighters out of necessity. Mr Liang said there were many thieves in the mountain range in ancient times and they often stole from homes in Daxi. Therefore, the locals had to learn kung fu to drive them away. 'The villagers had been practising kung fu by themselves until Tang Laoshun taught them the skills systematically,' Liang explained. Liang Disheng, 88, is one of the eldest kung fu practitioners in Daxi. He said Daxi residents followed one principle - that is to only use kung fu for the purpose of defending, not attacking. Daxi is not the only village in China where all residents practise kung fu. The Ganxi Dong village in Guizhou province, south China, is another example. Residents of Ganxi Dong are pictured showcasing their moves and weapons in 2015 It is said that everyone in Ganxi Dong, a secluded community deep in mountains, is well-practised in martial arts, which seems to be their only hobby aside from farming In a latest report by Pear Video, Mr Liang said kung fu was a lifestyle of people from all walks of life in Daxi. 'Some of them rear chickens, some of them sell fruit, some of them raise pigs. You wouldn't be able to tell they know kung fu because most of them keep a low profile.' With the changing of times, young people in the Daxi tend to spend their free time watching TV or playing video games. But the village's kung fu class has managed to keep the tradition alive among millennials, according to Mr Liang. 'The kung fu class has brought good impact (on the youngsters). Many of them now take part in it. 'The village's two grain-drying yards are often filled with people practising kung fu, even during the Chinese New Year. 'The trend of learning martial arts has indeed returned,' a proud Mr Liang said. Daxi is not the only village in China where all residents practise kung fu. The Ganxi Dong village in Guizhou province, south China, is another example. According to reports, a few different types of kung fu are practised in the secluded village deep in the mountains. Everyone is well-practised in the art, which seems to be their only hobby aside from farming. A road rage incident caught on camera saw a man jumping on the hood of a motorist's car as he drove away. Patricio Rios became infuriated after a man driving a white SUV in the town of Providencia, in the Chilean capital of Santiago, refused to speak to him after allegedly repeatedly running into his rear bumper on Monday afternoon. Video of the incident shared on Twitter by Gabriel Leon shows Rios arguing with the driver and then jumping on to the SUV. Patricio Rios (left) tries to detain the driver of an SUV who allegedly rear-ended his car A passerby recorded the dispute - Rios can be seen above jumping on to the SUV According to Las Ultimas Noticias, Rios told local station TVN 24 he was approaching the driver to confront him about him scratching his car. 'I told him, "What's wrong with you? Look your car is glued to mine. You are striking my car, you are scratching it,"' Rios recalled. 'He didn't say anything. Nothing. He did not lower the window. I banged the window.' As soon as the light turned green, the driver attempted to leave the scene with Rios on the hood. 'He continued to advance. It gets to a point where I had to jump on top of the hood. He drives off with me and takes me across the street.' At the next intersection Rios said the man got out and then punched him before leaving the scene. Police are still searching for the SUV driver. 'He continued to advance. It gets to a point where I had to jump on top of the hood. He drives off with me and takes me across the street,' Rios said Advertisement The black-and-white photos are stark and sterile, but the corporate world of a bygone era shines through as American executives pose in their 1970s offices. There are large and clunky early computers, machines given pride of place in corporate America as the technology age geared up. There are nods to old-world glamor, businessmen and women sharply dressed in professional attire with a flair so often absent now. There are also examples of gender and racial disparity, issues still relevant today but arguably more visible four decades ago. The view into 1970s corporate life was captured by photographer Susan Ressler, who documented the people and decor of offices and lobbies in 1970s Los Angeles and other urban US locations. Her photos will go on exhibit on Friday through next month at Joseph Bellows Gallery in La Jolla, and they were published in a new book earlier this year titled Executive Order. Renowned photographer Susan Ressler documented life inside American offices in the 1970s in Los Angeles and other large urban areas - where nascent computer technology was beginning to exercise more and more influence Ressler walked into buildings she simply found interesting from the outside and asked office workers, such as the woman pictured, to pose for her. The photographs capture a bygone time in offices, as illustrated by the ashtray on the table and a hefty television Remarking on the black female receptionist looking at a white male executive in this photo, Ressler told The New York Times earlier this year: Shes in that box, and he cant see the way shes looking at him ... Back then, thats just the way it was The photos are featured in a new exhibition beginning Friday at the Joseph Bellows Gallery in La Jolla, California - and were published in April in book Executive Order: Images of 1970s Corporate America Author Mark Rice, in his contextual essay in the book, wrote that Resslers images provide a glimpse inside a rising economic order as they reveal the reception rooms and inner sancta of premier corporate office spaces. They were made at a pivotal point both in the post-industrial shifts of the American economy and in American photography, when a younger generation of photographers grappled with questions of aesthetics and epistemologies. By bringing these photos to audiences now, Ressler provides viewers new ways of understanding the worlds of photography and American corporate culture as they intersected in her lens during the decade that brought us modern life. Ressler took the photographs for the Los Angeles Documentary Project, simply walking into buildings she found interesting, photographing the interiors and asking office workers to pose for her. I chose offices to photograph based on how they looked; they had to strike me in a certain way, she told The New York Times earlier this year. When I would go into these spaces they were often so chilling and I never felt very comfortable in them. The black-and-white images are stark yet striking; author Mark Rice writes in an essay for the book: 'They were made at a pivotal point both in the post-industrial shifts of the American economy and in American photography, when a younger generation of photographers grappled with questions of aesthetics and epistemologies' Ressler was one of eight noted photographers chosen to take the photos such as this image as part of the Los Angeles Documentary Project Ressler has been the recipient of two National Endowment for the Arts fellowships and is the former Head of the Photography Area at Purdue University in Indiana Though her photos feature both men and women, Ressler told The New York Times: When I think on it, I never met a single high-level female executive The exhibition - featuring photos of 1970s decor and architecture as well as actual office workers - begins on Friday, October 5 at the La Jolla, California gallery and continues until November 30 Though her photos feature both men and women, Ressler told the Times: When I think on it, I never met a single high-level female executive. And other societal realities are evident, too; in one picture, a black receptionist looks at a white male executive as he poses for Ressler. Shes in that box, and he cant see the way shes looking at him, Ressler told the newspaper. Back then, thats just the way it was. Ressler told The New York Times that the sleek 1970s office buildings which attracted her attention showed the 'rise of the economic order' The minimalist design of the era is also frozen in time by the images, which captures the advent of computers and technology. In one striking photo, a man stands surrounded by huge screens and a printer; the absence of computers on so many of Resslers subjects desks is also a glaring reminder of how much office culture has changed in the intervening years. The photos and the offices, Ressler summed up for the Times succinctly, showed the rise of the economic order. Ressler, the recipient of two National Endowment for the Arts fellowships and former Head of the Photography Area at Purdue University, was one of eight noted photographers chosen to participate in the documentary project. The exhibition will run at the La Jolla gallery until November 30. Many of the businessmen and women pictured are sharply dressed in professional attire -with a flair so often absent now Author Rice writes in the book: By bringing these photos to audiences now, Ressler provides viewers new ways of understanding the worlds of photography and American corporate culture as they intersected in her lens during the decade that brought us modern life In addition to immortalizing large machines and the new technology of the day, the photographs are just as notable for the absence of such innovations on the desks of well-dressed, high-ranking office executives Author Mark Rice wrote about the book that Ressler's photographs 'reveal the reception rooms and inner sancta of premier corporate office spaces' The images serve as a stark reminder for how much corporate life and American offices have changed, given the obvious lack of cell phones and other smart devices Ressler told The New York Times: I chose offices to photograph based on how they looked; they had to strike me in a certain way ... When I would go into these spaces they were often so chilling and I never felt very comfortable in them. The Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) yesterday launched its probe into the financial mismanagement at the debt-laden Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services (IL&FS), a day after the Centre superseded its board and ordered the investigation.According to media reports, the SFIO team entered the company's headquarters in Mumbai and apart from searching the premises and questioning the top management, it also took control of the company's servers to gather information as well as secure the data. More agencies may join the action soon. "We are getting all books of the group, including those of subsidiaries and associated companies. The auditors of the company would also be called for questioning," a senior government official told The Economic Times, adding that the agency will also question the ousted directors and former chief Ravi Parthasarathy. Separately, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and the National Financial Reporting Authority will start examining the role of the auditors and whether they colluded with the board to hide information. Citing sources the daily added that a forensic audit will be conducted and SFIO will not only look into books of the company for past five years but also the role of the management and stakeholders in failing to fulfil fiduciary responsibilities. The infrastructure financing giant, sitting on a debt pile of Rs 91,000 crore, had been paying dividends and huge managerial pay-outs regardless of the looming liquidity crisis. So, everything is under the scanner at this point, in order to pinpoint violations and gauge criminality. Even recently-resigned board members will be questioned. For instance, Ramesh C. Bawa quit as chief executive and managing director of IL&FS Financial Services on September 21, the day it defaulted on an IDBI letter of credit. Four independent directors - Renu Challu, Shhubhalakshmi Panse, Uday Ved and SS Kohli - and non-executive board member Vibhav Kapoor also resigned along with Bawa. "Board directors can't be absolved of their obligations by resigning abruptly," a source in the know told the daily. This development follows a report received from the Mumbai Regional Director of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs which brought out serious corporate-related deficiencies in the IL&FS holding company and its subsidiaries. "It was noted that the consolidated financial statement of IL&FS holding company and its subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures projected a picture through highly exaggerated depiction of non-current assets in the form of intangible assets amounting to over Rs 20,000 crores. Besides, bulk of revenue was in the form of receivables, around 50 per cent, was locked up in litigation and arbitration," the government said in a statement on Monday. The report had also found a "deep-rooted mismatch in the debt equity ratio because of excessive leveraging, which has put a question mark over its ability to continue as a going concern if allowed to continue in the hands of the present management". Kotak Mahindra Bank MD Uday Kotak has been appointed as the new Non-Executive Chairman. Significantly, the corporate affairs ministry has asked the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to issue lookout notices against several former IL&FS officials so they don't leave the country, including ousted vice-chairman Hari Sankaran, Bawa and three others. Parthasarathy, who quit in July, is currently in London on medical grounds. Meanwhile, five former independent directors, including former Chairman SB Mathur, have wrote a letter to Kotak extending their "complete support" in the revival of the entity. They added that the government's action is the correct one as it enables reaching out to various counter parties, including debtors and creditors of IL&FS, from a position of strength and clarity. National Coming Out Day will soon be marking its 30th anniversary across the world. The day was first held to mark a key event in the history of the LGBTQ community and has since grown into a worldwide day of pride for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other gender-nonconforming people and their allies. Heres all you need to know about National Coming Out Day, including what and when it is, its history and some ideas on how to commemorate the day. National Coming Out Day has now grown into a worldwide event for the LGBTQ community What is National Coming Out Day? National Coming Out Day is a global event in which people who identify with the LGBTQ community open up about who they are to family members, friends and the world in general. The event is also used to raise awareness of issues impacting the LGBTQ community and has expanded in recent years to include transgender and other gender-nonconforming people. When is National Coming Out Day 2018? National Coming Out Day 2018 will be held on Thursday, October 11. Ahead of the 30th anniversary of #NationalComingOutDay, @HRC honors @JanelleMonae who, in coming out as a queer Black woman in America, jump-started an international conversation about bisexual and pansexual identities. #NCOD pic.twitter.com/ezN1XIL6UX Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) October 2, 2018 National Coming Out Day history National Coming Out Day was first held in 1988 by LGBTQ rights activists Robert Eichsberg and Jean OLeary. Initially held on October 11 of that year, it marked the one-year anniversary of the Second March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights held in 1987, which itself was preceded by an earlier march held in October 1979. Since then, on or around every October 11, the event has been held throughout the world. Today the event is used to show the public the LGBTQ community exists in everyday life and to put to rest any preconceived stereotypes people may have. According to a 1992 interview with Eichsberg: Most people think they dont know anyone gay or lesbian, and in fact everybody does. It is imperative that we come out and let people know who we are and disabuse them of their fears and stereotypes. National Coming Out Day ideas People in the LGBTQ community or allies of the community can show their support on National Coming Out Day in a number of ways. Many activists wear jeans to work or school to show their solidarity on National Coming Out Day while others may choose to donate to LGBTQ rights organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign. Other ideas to help show support on National Coming Out Day include studying the history of the LGBTQ rights movement and wearing pride symbols like the rainbow flag or the pink triangle. National Coming Out Day social media reaction Many people took to Twitter to post supportive and positive messages on National Coming Out Day 2018. You dont have to come out, but if you do, just be you. You are already the perfect version of yourself #NationalComingOutDay Ranj Singh (@DrRanj) October 11, 2018 #NationalComingOutDay it is never too late. I am 33 and married to a man and for my entire life no one knew me as anything but cis and straight. I came out (in a limited way yes but still) as bisexual in 2016 and nonbinary in 2018 It is never too late <3 hELLEraiser (@ellle_em) October 11, 2018 Happy #NationalComingOutDay! Know that you are a valid and important part of our community, whether or not you have the luxury of being openly LGBT. We hope that through our work, one day everyone might feel safe and comfortable enough to take that bold step, if they so wish. Stonewall (@stonewalluk) October 11, 2018 Happy #NationalComingOutDay everyone! Let all of your brilliant, beautiful differences shine! Dustin Lance Black (@DLanceBlack) October 11, 2018 Happy #NationalComingOutDay! Life is better when you can be your true authentic self. pic.twitter.com/fPs1lyjLG5 Eric Rosswood (@LGBT_Activist) October 11, 2018 On #NationalComingOutDay Id like to say that my folks feel more shame when I get medical questions wrong on the Chase than the gay thing. Paul Sinha (@paulsinha) October 11, 2018 A Louisiana prosecutor says his office will confer with Mississippi counterparts before trying a man accused of murder in both states. After jurors once again said they couldn't reach a verdict, a Mississippi judge declared Monday a second mistrial for Quinton Tellis, 29, the man accused of capital murder for setting Jessica Chambers, 19, on fire and killing her in 2014 in Courtland, Mississippi. Tellis' first capital murder trial for Chambers' death had also ended in a hung jury in 2017. A Mississippi judge declared a mistrial in Quinton Tellis' (on Monday) capital murder trial for the 2014 death of teen Jessica Chambers. Now, Mississippi could retry him a third time or he could be extradited to Louisiana to face his first-degree murder charge there Tellis is accused of setting Jessica Chambers, 19 (left), on fire and killing her in Mississippi. He is also accused of the torture death of Ming-Chen Hsiao while trying to obtain her bank PIN Mississippi prosecutors are said to have the option to take Tellis to trial for a third time on the capital murder charge, while Louisiana prosecutors are waiting to decide what to do about their first-degree murder charge against Tellis in Ouchita, Louisiana. Louisiana Assistant District Attorney Geary Aycock told The News-Star of Monroe that no decision has been made about trying Tellis in the state and that his office will need to discuss the situation with Mississippi prosecutors before determining whether to extradite him so they can move forward with the Louisiana murder charge. Tellis pleaded guilty to using Hsiao's debit card without authorization in 2016 Tellis faces a first-degree murder charge in Ouchita for the 2015 death of Ming-Chen Hsiao, a Taiwanese university student who appeared to have been tortured for her debit card PIN before being killed. A July 2016 warrant filed in Louisiana's 4th Judicial District Court revealed that authorities suspected Tellis of having tortured and robbed Hsiao to obtain her debit card. 'After gaining possession of the debit card, he brutally murdered her by repeatedly stabbing her and letting her body rot and decompose until being discovered,' the warrant stated, according to the News-Star. Hsiao, who was a student at the University of Louisana at Monroe at the time of her death, was said to have been cut more than 30 times. The cuts on her shoulders, face and ears were believed to have been used to torture her until she revealed her PIN, according to the Daily Journal. In 2016, Tellis pleaded guilty to taking Hsiao's debit card without authorization and withdrawing more than $1,000 from her account. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison before being extradited to Mississippi to face the death penalty in the Chambers case. Tellis (on Monday) has been on trial twice now for the death of Jessica Chambers. The first hung jury occurred in 2017. It's unknown yet if prosecutors will try him a third time Chambers, who was in a romantic relationship with Tellis, was found burned alive in her car, which was also on fire in 2014 in Courtland, Mississippi Meanwhile, a charge of possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute was separated from his plea deal. The drug charge could lead to Tellis receiving life in prison as he could be sentenced under Louisianas habitual offender law, should the state decide that his Mississippi convictions can be applied to his status in Louisiana. Tellis attended his court trial while serving out a five-year conviction at North Mississippi County Jail. He was sentenced in November 2017 and is not due for release until November 2022, according to jail records. Chambers, who was in a romantic relationship with Tellis, was found burned alive in her car, which was also on fire in 2014. Authorities said she had been doused with gasoline and then set on fire on a rural road in Courtland. Tellis has denied killing Chambers. A gangland killer who faked illness to be sprung from jail while on a hospital visit has been told he must serve another eight years behind bars. Shaun Walmsley, 29, was already serving a life sentence with a minimum term of 30 years behind bars when two men, armed with an Uzi submachine gun and a knife, threatened to shoot and 'cut' his three prison guards, before snatching him outside Aintree Hospital in the city in February 2017. Walmsley spent 18 months on the run from HMP Liverpool before he was captured in a pre-planned operation by armed police in Leeds in August. Shaun Walmsley (pictured left and right, after 18 months on the run), 29, was already serving a life sentence with a minimum term of 30 years behind bars when two men, armed with an Uzi submachine gun and a knife, threatened to shoot and 'cut' his three prison guards, before snatching him outside Aintree Hospital in the city in February 2017 After he was repeatedly tasered and dragged out of a car he told the officers 'Good job boys!', Liverpool Crown Court heard. He was given a minimum 30 years in June 2015 for the brutal stabbing of rival drug dealer Anthony Duffy, 33. After receiving news his appeal had been refused Walmsley hatched the prison escape by deliberately losing weight and feigning illness. Walmsley had a consultation at the hospital on February 8 last year, where he was told he would undergo a minor endoscopy procedure on February 21 - and was able to plot his bid for freedom. The defendant on Tuesday pleaded guilty to a single count of escape from custody. Walmsley spent 18 months on the run from HMP Liverpool before he was captured in a pre-planned operation by armed police in Leeds in August Judge Clement Goldstone, Recorder of Liverpool, told the defendant if he thought another sentence would make no difference as he was already serving life, 'you could not be more wrong'. He was told although he is only eligible for parole in June 2047 after that sentence finishes, he must serve another eight years - half of it in jail - before release. The judge added: 'After undergoing your procedure you were, to use the vernacular, sprung by two men who had parked a car nearby. 'Each was armed one with a machine gun the other a knife and gas canister. 'I have no doubt over the months you began to think by a combination of disguise, re-location and friends in low places you had become above the law and would remain at large indefinitely. 'But Merseyside Police had other ideas. Eventually the joint and perfectly co-ordinated operation with West Yorkshire Police led to your arrest.' Earlier Henry Riding, prosecuting, told the court Walmsley was one of four men sentenced to life for the murder of Anthony Duffy, who was stabbed 28 times in Aintree in May, 2014. He began losing weight and complained of bowel problems and bleeding before being taken to the hospital with the follow up appointment planned. Mr Riding said: 'Subsequent to that, information from the hospital indicates tests show he had no condition of any kind. There's every reason to suppose his, 'condition' was effectively a sham.' Mr Riding said his escort was three prison officers, taking him to hospital in a private hire taxi. The prisoner was at all times handcuffed to a prison officer, 'even when he underwent the procedure at the hospital.' But outside as they went to get in a taxi back to the jail two men approached threatening to shoot and stab them if they did not unlock his handcuffs. A 43-year-old former model accused of killing a man he met on gay dating app Jack'd last year complained he wasn't being fed enough in jail as he appeared in New York's Brooklyn Criminal Court Tuesday. David Keegan Riotto Haigh was a shadow of his former self as he sat at a hearing in New York facing second-degree murder charges for killing James Koron Johnson, 41, on April 9, 2017. Wearing an old beige sweater and pants with spectacles, Haigh still sported his usual facial hair from his modeling and acting days but instead of straightening his locks, they're in a much longer scruffy mop of curls. David Keegan Riotto Haigh was a shadow of his former self as he sat at a hearing in New York facing second-degree murder charges Haigh faces charges for killing James Koron Johnson, 41, on April 9, 2017 Held in handcuffs and led by law enforcement to answer for his crime of stabbing date in self-defense the defendant has been held behind bars ever since the day after the incident. The DA has requested he have a mental evaluation. He appeared in front of a judge in Brooklyn's Mental Health Court asking for a colonoscopy and complaining of not being fed enough while he was held at the Rikers Island facility. While the judge considers the request, the latter issue has now been resolved and Haigh is an inmate at the Brooklyn Courthouse ahead of his December 3 trial start date. Haigh, working as an interior decorator at the time, claims that he was attacked after he tried to leave Johnson's home inside Ingersoll Houses in the Forte Green neighborhood last year. The defendant's call records show that he dialed 911 at 4.42am and again at 5.58am to report what had happened at the one-bedroom apartment. His phone searches indicate that in between that time someone had also used the phone to search for information that ultimately led them to a page that says emergency services may return the call back if the phone line goes dead. Wearing an old beige sweater and pants with spectacles, Haigh still sported his usual facial hair from his modeling and acting days He donned a long scruffy mop of curls in a Brooklyn courthouse Tuesday He appeared in front of a judge in Brooklyn's Mental Health Court asking for a colonoscopy and complaining of not being fed enough while he was held at the Rikers Island facility No one responded to the first call made from his phone in the early hours of that morning. Prior to the calls and internet search, Haigh's sister had received a message at 4.11am. She was asleep at the time but had been trying to contact him via text message throughout the day as she says she hadn't heard from him in 24 hours, according to Bklyner, who received written communication from the suspect from prison. When law enforcement arrived at the scene they found John on his back in a pool of blood with a knife sticking out of the left side of his chest. The autopsy notes bite marks on Johnson's chest and body hair between his teeth. In the apartment was a broken mirror, the flat screen television had been knocked onto the floor, a glass table was tipped over and a drawer of silverware was turned over. Haigh says he was attacked after he tried to leave Johnson's home inside Ingersoll Houses in the Forte Green neighborhood last year The defendant's call records show that he dialed 911 at 4.42am and again at 5.58am to report what had happened at the one-bedroom apartment Meanwhile, Haigh's face was covered in bruises and his finger was injured by a bite. The Bklyner story reports that the accused's voice was so unusually high-pitched in the 911 call that the operator referred to him as a female and his own sister who he was living with in Reading Pennsylvania, did not recognise him from the speech. Haigh's lawyer has presented evidence that another man had filed a complaint about being forced to have anal sex on Johnson and claims he threatened him when showed opposition to being involved in a filmed 'gang-bang' with other men. The accuser claims Johnson was smoking crystal meth before the encounter that also allegedly happened at Johnson's apartment 'barely a week before'. While the accuser who had performed consensual oral sex on Johnson went to the hospital after showering and the case was referred to the NYPD Special Victim's Division, Johnson was reportedly not questioned but was listed as wanted. In May this year, Haigh's lawyer Thomas Andrykovitz used an affidavit from the man referred to as 'R.S.' alleging a detective in sent him a photo of 'Johnson's body lying on the floor of his apartment' via text message and in the mail. The same month his trial date was delayed. The police department was then accused of not prioritizing 'acquaintance rape'. Both men who went to Johnson's apartment have said he was 'aggressive and threatening' and did not allow them to leave the property. They also state he ordered them to shower after sex. Another man had also filed a similar complaint as Haigh's before the killing Haigh's sister, Tricia Nierle (not pictured) has since set up a website to help with his defense. She works as a correction officer The funding page has raised $15,550 so far toward his legal fees In the affidavit 'R.S.' says he escaped by claiming he was going to the ATM but went to hospital. Haigh says he tried to use the same excuse to leave. He confessed to killing in self-defense after being taken to hospital on the morning of the incident and being given a sedative to calm down. While he was reportedly not allowed a phone call from hospital, a police officer allegedly let him used his phone to call his sister. Tricia Nierle, who has since set up a Funded Justice website to help with his defense that has raised $15,550, works as a correction officer and found it strange her brother hadn't returned by the time she had finished her night shift. 'This has basically just been an ongoing nightmare,' Nierle told Bklyner at the pre-trial hearing stage in April. 'Every day you wake up and you think to yourself: this can't be happening to me and my family.' Johnson's family also maintains that he was not the dangerous man Haigh has described in his case. The dog father to a miniature Doberman pinscher named Paco and a Chinese crested named Pixie, had moved back to Brooklyn where he grew up after a break-up in Georgia. His sister Loretta Monroe described him as a 'fashionista'. 'I know their story was that he attacked him, but I don't believe that,' said Loretta's husband, Xavier Monroe. 'It doesn't sound like him, it just doesn't. If something like that happened, it would be so strange because he's just not that type of person.' Australia is leading the way in the race to become the first country to eliminate cervical cancer. Researchers say the country is on track to eradicate the disease by 2035, if current vaccination and screening rates continue. And, according to a new prediction based on current data, by 2022 it will be classified as a 'rare cancer'. Scroll down for video Cancer Council NSW research revealed the maintenance of current vaccination and screening coverage levels will spare women the worry of cervical cancer by 2035 'This is exciting news for women across Australia,' said Professor Karen Canfell, director of research at Cancer Council NSW, which led the study. 'We've been leading the way in cervical cancer control for many years and we'll be sharing our research and approaches with the rest of the world.' World Health Organization (WHO) chiefs have yet to establish what threshold of cases classes as cervical cancer being eliminated. But researchers led by Michaela Hall suggested four cases per 100,000 people could be the milestone for eradication. The team of scientists, writing in The Lancet Public Health, predicted the rates of cancer will drop to below this threshold by 2035. And they estimated that it will drop to a rate of less than six in 100,000 by 2022. The current rate is around seven per 100,000. WHAT IS HPV? THE INFECTION LINKED TO 99% OF CERVICAL CANCER AND 91% OF ANAL CANCER CASES Up to eight out of 10 people will be infected with HPV in their lives Human papilloma virus (HPV) is the name for a group of viruses that affect your skin and the moist membranes lining your body. Spread through vaginal, anal and oral sex and skin-to-skin contact between genitals, it is extremely common. Up to eight out of 10 people will be infected with the virus at some point in their lives. There are more than 100 types of HPV. Around 30 of which can affect the genital area. Genital HPV infections are common and highly contagious. Many people never show symptoms, as they can arise years after infection, and the majority of cases go away without treatment. It can lead to genital warts, and is also known to cause cervical cancer by creating an abnormal tissue growth. Annually, an average of 38,000 cases of HPV-related cancers are diagnosed in the US, 3,100 cases of cervical cancer in the UK and around 2,000 other cancers in men. HPV can also cause cancers of the throat, neck, tongue, tonsils, vulva, vagina, penis or anus. It can take years for cancer to develop. Advertisement The researchers wrote in the journal: 'Cervical cancer could be considered to be eliminated as a public health problem in Australia within the next 20 years. 'However, screening and vaccination initiatives would need to be maintained thereafter to maintain very low cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates.' Figures show the rate in the UK is slightly higher with 9.5 women per 100,000 estimated to be struck down with the disease. And a charity claims elimination is also 'firmly on the horizon' in the UK. But the rate is much higher in Scotland (13.7) than the rest of the home nations, who are all around the nine cases per 100,000 women mark. The rate in the US is thought to be around 7.5. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, Swaziland has the highest rate of cervical cancer in the world 75 cases per 100,000 people. Australia became one of the first countries to introduce a human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination scheme for girls in 2007. Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infections of high-risk HPV, which causes changes to cervical cells. And last year Australian officials replaced the pap test routinely offered to women aged between 16 and 89 with new HPV cervical screening. The new test against HPV, offered to people aged 25-74, is expected to lower cervical cancer diagnoses and mortality by around 20 per cent. Professor Canfell said the fight against cervical cancer was recently addressed at the World Health Organisation (WHO). Silvia de Sanjose, president of the International Papillomavirus Society, said Australia was at the 'forefront of HPV research' with innovation and implementation of large-scale vaccination initiatives. Ms de Sanjose said special attention will be given to vulnerable persons, including 'Indigenous communities and those in low and middle income countries.' Professor Canfell recommended women continue participating in the National Cervical Screening Program, and for girls and boys to be vaccinated against HPV through the national HPV immunisation program. Robert Music, chief executive of Jos Cervical Cancer Trust, said: 'There are constant advancements in cervical cancer prevention and Australia has been ahead of the UK in adopting many of them, this means they are well and truly on the path to eliminating cervical cancer. 'We should look to follow their example and introduce new technologies as soon as possible, this includes HPV primary screening, self-sampling as part of the cervical screening programme and vaccinating boys for HPV. 'Our research has shown that elimination is firmly on the horizon in the UK with deaths almost disappearing among vaccinated generations by 2040. 'We must not lose sight of this goal and should strive to increase uptake of the preventative vaccination and screening programmes, especially among non-vaccinated women where incidence is set to rise. If they continue to fall elimination will get further away.' A group of close to 50 teenagers have wreaked havoc on the streets of Sydney in the first week of school holidays. Arden Street in the beachside suburb of Coogee was left littered with rubbish as bins were knocked over on Tuesday night. Passers-by were allegedly assaulted by the youths as they attempted to shut down their raucous party. Members of the public were allegedly punched and had beer bottles thrown at them. More than 50 teenagers wreaked havoc on the streets of Coogee on Tuesday night Pictures that emerged after the incident show toilet paper strewn around and bicycles knocked over Pictures that emerged after the incident show toilet paper strewn over a park and bicycles knocked over. Police were called to the scene around 11.30pm. Most of the group of nearly 50 adolescents were reportedly able to flee before authorities arrived in the area. NSW Police told Daily Mail Australia that they did not receive any reports of physical harm to members of the public. They also said there had been no reports of damage despite the claims. A large clean-up operation was underway on Wednesday morning following the incident. Families have spoken out about the 'horrendous' conditions their loved ones are living in at the aged care home where an elderly dementia patient was allegedly attacked. Bupa Seaforth on Sydney's northern beaches has apologised 'unreservedly' to its patients and their families, following sanctions placed on the facility by the Federal Department of Health. The facility failed to meet the majority of basic care standards in a recent audit, which revealed an 'immediate and severe risk to the health, safety or well being' of patients. Bupa Seaforth has lost its government funding for the next six months and is at risk of being shut down if it doesn't lift its game. Bupa Seaforth failed a recent government audit following an alleged attack on elderly dementia patient David Nabulsi (right) A letter to residents' families obtained by the ABC states that the facility will not accept new patients so it can 'focus on fixing the problems for current residents'. Greg Stockley described conditions at the facility as 'horrendous', claiming his mother Lorna, 84, was often given other people's medication or none at all. 'The food is like pig slop. There was shepherd's pie I wouldn't feed to my dogs,' he told The Daily Telegraph. Another family said their relative, who was incontinent, sat in his own faeces for hours. One employee described the facility as a 'disgrace' and said it was constantly short-staffed. The recent audit comes after secretly filmed footage captured Prakash Paudyal, 35, allegedly assaulting patient David Nabulsi, 82, at the facility in August. 'We know there have been serious failings at Bupa Seaforth (pictured) and we apologise to residents and their family members for this,' a spokesman told Daily Mail Australia The shocking footage shows Mr Nabulsi cowering in fear as Paudyal allegedly shoves and drags him across the bed. He then allegedly repeatedly hits Mr Nabulsi with a shoe as he forces him to undress. Paudyal was charged in relation to the alleged assault and will reappear in Manly Local Court on October 9. He was also sacked by the facility. Family members met with management and government officials last week, including Mr Nabulsi's daughter Ayda Celine, who described the meeting as 'useless' and eventually walked out. Prakash Paudyal (left) was sacked by Bupa Seaforth after shocking footage of him allegedly assaulting an elderly patient emerged 'It actually sounded like the officials were blaming the families for not supporting the care staff but in reality, we are there every day, doing their job, so they were taking no accountability for what was happening in that facility at all,' she told the ABC. 'When we asked about staff-to-patient ratios, we were told that they [Bupa] didn't have one and they couldn't say how they would make sure the staff are properly trained.' A Bupa spokesman told Daily Mail Australia on Wednesday morning that the facility is working with the department to address issues in the report. David Nabulsi's daughter, Ayda Celine (pictured) attended a meeting with aged care home management last week, which she described as 'useless' 'Our residents are always at the heart of what we do, and in the vast majority of cases the care we provide reflects this,' the spokesman said. 'We sometimes fail to live up to the high standards we set, and we are committed to addressing this. Prior to receiving notice of the sanctions, we had already taken the step to voluntarily focus on our existing residents and not make any new admissions.' The facility is taking 'concerning' allegations publicly made by patients' families this week seriously. 'Where allegations of criminal conduct are made, we actively support police involvement,' the spokesman told Daily Mail Australia. 'The safety and wellbeing of our residents is our priority. We know there have been serious failings at Bupa Seaforth and we apologise to residents and their family members for this.' Former Bupa Seaforth employee Prakash Paudyal, 35, (pictured) will reappear in Manly Local Court on October 9 The facility is conducting its own internal review and recently appointed former Health Services Commissioner of Victoria Beth Wilson, who has already started consulting with residents and their families at the facility. 'She will advise us on how we can improve our focus on what matters to residents, and their families,' the spokesman said. Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently announced a royal commission into aged care sector. Advertisement Theresa May suffered a last-minute blow before her big Tory conference speech today as an MP broke cover to demand she quits. After a gathering in Birmingham marred by civil war over Brexit, the PM will insist she has a positive vision matching that of bitter rival Boris Johnson. But shortly before she was due to take to her feet, long-term critic James Duddridge announced that he had sent a letter to the powerful Tory 1922 committee asking for a vote of no confidence. Mr Duddridge said he was normally a 'loyalist' but said failing to remove Mrs May would consign the Tories to defeat at the hands of Jeremy Corbyn. He said the tipping point for him was Boris Johnson yesterday outlining an alternative Brexit plan in a noisy appearance at the Tory conference. If 48 of the letters are received by the 1922 committee's chairman Graham Brady he is obliged to call a formal vote of confidence in Mrs May. In the speech she will point to a new 'global' immigration system, crackdown on property investors from abroad, and fuel duty freeze as evidence that she can make the country work for ordinary people. The crucial conference speech could be a make or break moment for Mrs May as she battles to push through a Brexit deal. Shortly before she was due to take to her feet, long-term critics James Duddridge (pictured today on Sky News) announced that he had sent a letter to the powerful Tory 1922 committee asking for a vote of no confidence Theresa May (pictured reading her speech) will today call for 'decent, moderate, patriotic' Britons to unite behind the Tories to keep 'appalling' Jeremy Corbyn out of power In his letter Mr Duddridge blasted he was 'normally' a loyalist but said: 'However, there comes a point that blind loyalty is not the right way forward. Tory chief says MPs lie publicly about formally trying to trigger leadership contest Some Tories lie publicly about having written letters demanding Theresa May be ousted as leader, a senior figure has revealed. As chair of the 1922 committee, Graham Brady is obliged to call a vote of no confidence when he is notified in writing by 15 per cent of the party's MPs. But at a fringe event in Birmingham yesterday, Mr Brady revealed he had seen politicians talking about sending him letters that he never received. 'There are instances where I will see a Conservative colleague on the television saying they have written a letter to me when they haven't,' he said. 'I will see them on the television saying they had withdrawn the letter to me, when they haven't sent it in the first place. 'You have to be careful what you believe.' Advertisement 'We need a strong leader, someone who believes in Brexit and someone to deliver what the electorate voted for. 'The Prime Minister seems incapable of doing this.' Mr Duddridge said he knew of no MP who thought Mrs May would lead the next election campaign. And he said: 'We will fail to cut through on issues other than Brexit until we are beyond Brexit, yet the can is kicked further and further down the road. 'I write this with heavy heart, however we now need a proper leadership election and to move on.' Mrs May must put the blow aside as she makes today's speech. Like last year's event - when a prankster presented her with a fake P45 on stage and then she lost her voice - Mrs May has a heavy cold, but aides insist she is up to putting on a show. Her address will inevitably be compared to the barn-storming appearance by Mr Johnson yesterday. The former foreign secretary was cheered to the rafters by around 1,500 Tory rank-and-file as he condemned the PM's Chequers plan for Brexit as an 'outrage'. The speech was hailed by Eurosceptic MPs - but allies of Mrs May lashed back by accusing Mr Johnson of 'grotesque self-indulgence' and said he was putting 'ambition' over the national interest. In her speech, Mrs May will call for 'decent, moderate, patriotic' Britons and her warring party to unite behind her to keep 'appalling'Jeremy Corbyn out of power. She will alter Labour's 'For the many, not the few' slogan as she declares that the Conservatives are 'a party not for the few, not even for the many, but for everyone who is willing to work hard and do their best'. The PM's address will inevitably be compared to the barn-storming appearance by Boris Johnson yesterday (pictured left). The former foreign secretary was spotted back at his Oxfordshire home today (right) In one of the most important speeches of her career, the Prime Minister (pictured at conference yesterday) will seek to rally her fractious party behind her The Prime Minister will say: 'Millions of people who have never supported our party in the past are appalled by what Jeremy Corbyn has done to Labour. Theresa May to quit: What happens next? How does a leadership election work? The election to find Theresa May's replacement is held in two stages with up to 20 Tory MPs expected to try to stand. To join the battle, any candidate requires two other MPs to sign forms agreeing to be their proposer and a seconder. The race will start on June 7 and is expected last around six weeks with the new leader in place by the end of July. Mrs May is expected to remain as Prime Minister until a successor is appointed and ready to be confirmed by the Queen. How are candidates eliminated? Conservative MPs will hold a series of head-to-head ballots to whittle the list of contenders down to a final two, with the lowest placed candidate dropping out in each round. Who votes on the final two? There will then be a series of hustings involving the two final candidates - probably in all regions of the UK - and a TV debate could also be held. It is then the Tory members across the country step in. They will then have around a fortnight to vote via postal ballot - which Mrs May avoided after rival Andrea Leadsom dropped out of the race. The last time a postal vote was held was in 2005, when David Cameron grabbed the leadership. Advertisement 'They want to support a party that is decent, moderate and patriotic. One that puts the national interest first. Delivers on the issues they care about. And is comfortable with modern Britain in all its diversity. 'We must show everyone in this country that we are that party. 'A party that conserves the best of our inheritance but is not afraid of change. A party of patriotism but not nationalism. A party that believes in business but is not afraid to hold businesses to account. 'A party that believes in the good that government can do but knows that government will never have all the answers. A party that believes your success in life should not be defined by who you love, your faith, the colour of your skin, who your parents were, or where you were raised - but by your talent and hard work. 'Above all a party of Unionism, not just of four proud nations, but of all our people. 'A party not for the few, not even for the many, but for everyone who is willing to work hard and do their best.' Mrs May takes to the stage at the Conservative Conference in Birmingham less than 24 hours after 1,500 delegates gave a thunderous standing ovation to Boris Johnson as he branded her Brexit plans a 'constitutional outrage' that would humiliate Britain. Mr Johnson's demand for the PM to 'chuck Chequers' has echoed around the corridors and fringe meetings at a gathering riven by profound differences over the best approach to Britain's EU withdrawal. But he stopped short of a direct challenge to her leadership, urging Tories to encourage her to ditch the plan agreed at her country residence and return to a harder Brexit blueprint. Mrs May said she was 'cross' with her former foreign secretary, accusing him of being ready to 'tear up' her guarantee to the people of Northern Ireland that there would be no customs border down the Irish Sea. Conservative MP James Duddridge renewed hostilities between the warring factions today, saying he had 'no confidence in her leadership over delivering Brexit'. Hours before the PM is due to take to the stage, hundreds of Tories were waiting in line to get into the conference hall Queues were already snaking around the conference centre hours before the PM is due to take to the stage today Michael Gove and Esther McVey (left hand pictured, centre and right respectively) and Sajid Javid and wife Laura (right hand picture) were among the early arrivals for the PM's speech today He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'We need a strong leader and we haven't got that at the moment. 'Boris yesterday was inspirational, motivational and rallied the troops, rallied politicians, something you could get behind and that's what we need, we need a leader not a chief executive, an administrator, we need a vision to go forward and that's what Boris presented yesterday.' Cabinet Office minister David Lidington said it was 'no shame for someone to have the ambition to be PM'. Tory activists queue for hours before PM's keynote speech Queues for the PM's speech snaked around the conference centre Theresa May won a skirmish in her running battle with Boris Johnson today - as activists queued round the block for her speech to conference. Hours before the PM was due to take to the stage, hundreds of Tories were waiting in line to get into the conference hall. The queues were bigger than those for Mr Johnson, who was very much the hottest ticket at the Birmingham gathering yesterday. The two politicians are vying for the affections of the party faithful amid increasingly bitter clashes over Brexit. Advertisement 'But everybody should be thinking about the national interest first,' he told BBC Breakfast. He added: 'He's always got some well-crafted lines and it's the end-of-the-pier show sort of event. 'What he's not done is, I think, provide any new answers to some of the questions that have been raised - that if you're going to advocate a trade arrangement with the EU that looks like the Canadian one, well, then you have to deal with the reality that Canadian goods coming into the EU are subject to all sorts of checks and inspections, paperwork and bureaucracy which would significantly increase costs for British business if they had to go from the current seamless arrangements to those.' Scottish Tories are said to be so worried at the prospect of Mr Johnson becoming PM that they have launched a campaign codenamed to stave off the prospect, codenamed 'Operation Arse'. Scottish Secretary Davd Mundell told the BBC's Good Morning Scotland that he was sick of Mr Johnson's 'stunts'. 'I think colleagues in Scotland are very frustrated by Mr Johnson's behaviour, constantly seeking to detract from the prime minister, putting forward stunts and press releases and being a huge distraction at a time of such significance of our country,' he said, In her keynote speech in Birmingham, Mrs May will try to focus on her hopes for a brighter future after Brexit. 'I passionately believe that our best days lie ahead of us and that our future is full of promise,' she will say. 'Don't let anyone tell you we don't have what it takes: we have everything we need to succeed.' The crucial address comes one year, almost to the day, since her catastrophic conference speech in Manchester, where she suffered stage invasion by a comedian, a persistent cough and a collapsing backdrop. That calamitous performance led to speculation over how long she could last as Conservative leader. She has already said she has taken steps to ensure she speaks 'strongly' this time round. In a speech entitled Our Future Is In Our Hands, Mrs May will tell delegates that countries across the world stand ready to trade with the UK. And she will promise that at this 'moment of opportunity' the Conservatives will always act in the 'national interest' and put the needs of hard-working people first. An Australian man who allegedly attacked a Bali cafe owner after his dogs urinated at the cafe has been ordered to hug his victim in court. Michael David Sode, 47, was thrown into a Balinese prison after he allegedly assaulted owner Made Wena when Mr Wena complained about Sode's dogs urinating on coconuts used for drinks at his Warung Coconut cafe in Ubud, in July. Sode appeared at the Gianyar District Court for the first time and was ordered to hug his victim and sign a 'peace agreement', the Herald Sun reported. Australian man Michael David Sode (pictured), 47, who allegedly attacked a Bali cafe owner after his dog urinated at the cafe has been ordered to hug his victim in court Mr Wena, who has a 'big heart', said he felt pity for the Australian man and pushed for the unusual gesture. The pair were ordered to shake hands and hug in front of the judge's bench after Mr Wena testified and revealed details of the letter to the court. The official proceedings of the trial must continue as the peace agreement came after a criminal case was launched by police. Mr Wena told the court he signed the peace agreement because he felt pity for the accused, the Herald Sun reported. 'I am Balinese. I feel pity for him. So when he asked for forgiveness, I accept it. However, the case should proceed to punishment. I want foreigners to know that this is the law in Indonesia. I also want locals to open their eyes that if they find this kind of case, they should make a report to police,' he said. The victim also recognised Sode was suffering in jail where he has been detained since his arrest, defence lawyer Edmundus Wahyu Indrawan said. The victim Made Wena, who has a 'big heart', said he felt pity for the Australian man (pictured) and pushed for the unusual gesture Mr Indrawan said the victim had a big heart and accepted the incident was an accident. In his testimony, Mr Wena said he was pushed to a table and punched by Sode. A medical report showed the victim's lips had been injured, prosecutor Julius Anthony told the court. Sode responded to the testimony and told the court the dogs in question were not his but were street dogs that followed him into the cafe. Sode was thrown into a Balinese prison after he allegedly assaulted business owner Made Wena when Mr Wena complained Sode's dogs were urinating on coconuts used for drinks at his Warung Coconut cafe (pictured) in July 'I love the dogs so they walk with me,' he said. Sode also claimed he did not intentionally cause injury and recalled the incident was more like a push than a punch. Sode faces one charge of assault which carries a maximum two years and eight months jail. The trial will continue next week. Theresa Mays bid to unblock Brexit talks was thrown into turmoil last night Theresa Mays bid to unblock Brexit talks was thrown into turmoil last night after her DUP allies warned they would vote against any deal involving checks in the Irish Sea. Ministers are considering how regulatory checks could be used to break the deadlock in negotiations with Brussels. It is thought the Prime Minister could suggest a compromise that involves checks on goods coming into Northern Ireland from Great Britain. But Nigel Dodds, the DUPs Westminster leader, said it would not accept the introduction of barriers between the mainland and Ulster. He told a meeting at the Tory conference: We will vote against it. We will vote for our red lines. Mrs May has relied on the votes of the DUPs ten MPs to pass legislation since she lost her majority in the general election last year. DUP leader Arlene Foster yesterday said her party was not bluffing about its staunch opposition to anything that would create a border between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. She said: We have to ensure that there is no border down the Irish Sea, we have to continue to have the integrity of our country maintained from a constitutional point of view and also from an economic point of view. We are not going to allow the United Kingdom to be broken up by Brussels or by anybody else. Northern Ireland is not about to become a semi-detached part of the United Kingdom. [European Commission chief negotiator Michel] Barnier cannot annexe off part of the United Kingdom so he can say that thats the way forward. We are not bluffing on this issue. We are very clear, our job is to protect the union, our job is to do what is right for Northern Ireland and you can be assured that we will do that. DUP leader Arlene Foster yesterday said her party was not bluffing about its opposition to anything that would create a border Asked if she would accept any additional differences in how goods are regulated in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, she said: No, no, no no. The UK and the EU both want to avoid a hard border - physical checks or infrastructure between Northern Ireland and Ireland but cannot agree on how. Brussels has proposed a backstop that would see Northern Ireland remain in the customs union to ensure alignment with Ireland. The British government has been adamant that it would never accept this as a permanent arrangement as it risks the break-up of the UK. Nigel Dodds (pictured right) the DUPs Westminster leader, said it would not accept the introduction of barriers between the mainland and Ulster However, ministers have been careful not to completely rule out the prospect of regulatory checks in the Irish Sea to make sure goods travelling between Great Britain and Northern Ireland meet EU safety and quality standards. This possible compromise could potentially ensure that there need be no hard border. Checks are already in place at the Irish Sea border for animal diseases such as rabies. However, Mr Dodds made clear yesterday that the DUP would vote with Jeremy Corbyn against Mrs Mays Brexit deal if it involved checks on goods crossing the Irish Sea. It is thought the Prime Minister could suggest a compromise that involves checks on goods coming into Northern Ireland from Great Britain He said: Let us be clear that for the DUP there will be no border of any kind down the Irish Sea customs, regulatory, political, constitutional or otherwise because we are part of the UK and we will leave the EU together and as one nation. We stick with what the Prime Minister said and she said no new regulatory barriers. 'The point about it is you cant compromise the integrity of your country, you cant compromise the economy of your country. He added: One of things that has disappointed us greatly is the weaponisation of the Irish border issue and the Irish peace process by the Dublin government and by Brussels. This has been utterly shameful and disgraceful and has been something that has bedevilled the negotiations so far. Globally, there is a shortage of cyber security professionals. Indian IT has sniffed that opportunity and is beefing up on their manpower, technology, and innovation capacities. Tech Mahindra, for instance, announced a tie-up with Israel's ELTA Systems, a defense electronics company. The partnership, the companies said, would help in designing security operation centres, computer emergency response teams, and forensic laboratories for enterprise customers and the government. It would also help Tech Mahindra offer consulting and managed security services. Research firm Gartner sees worldwide enterprise security spending to total $96.3 billion in 2018, an increase of eight per cent from 2017. Of this, the spending on outsourcing services is expected to total $18.5 billion, an 11 per cent increase from 2017. "Skill sets are scarce and therefore remain at a premium, leading organisations to seek external help from security consultants, managed securityservice providers and outsourcers," Gartner noted in December of last year. The reason Tech Mahindra partnered an Israeli company has many reasons. The country has a dense concentration of innovative cyber security companies. In 2017, about 70 cyber security start-ups were founded in Israel. Companies raised more than $800 million in venture funding. Roughly, 20 per cent of the global private investments in cyber security are pumped from Israel, second only to the United States. The country also has many research and development facilities focused around security. Of course, the mother of all innovation is need - Israeli infrastructure is attacked three to five times every minute by cyber criminals, possibly because of its political climate. Cyber security experts say there are five things that make for a strong defense against cyber crime: State of the art technology, robust methodology, innovation, collaboration (of the good guys against the bad), and capacity build-up. ELTA Systems brings in technology, innovation, and experience in scaling capacity. ELTA Systems is a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the country's largest aerospace and defence company. It is early days for Tech Mahindra in the cyber security outsourcing space. But the company has client relationships and domain knowledge across many industries. The cyber security practice plans to leverage on them, Rajiv Singh, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Tech Mahindra's Cyber Security unit, said. The company, at the moment, is skilling and re-skilling engineers in the cyber security domain and its current solutions when it comes to outsourcing services includes a mix of man and machine - software bots, Singh said, would play a crucial role in security services. Honey has been deemed the world's third most adulterated food after research revealed that nearly one in five varieties across Australia are impure. The study, conducted by scientists at Macquarie University, examined 100 honey samples globally, including 38 Australian honey brands from Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales and Tasmania. Of the 38 which included expensive, boutique honeys 18.4 per cent were found to be adulterated, meaning they have been mixed with non-honey substances. Although most appear to be unadulterated, experts said there is one way to make sure you are buying pure honey - not something that's been diluted with corn starch, rice syrup or other substances. Of the 38 Australian brands which included boutique honeys 18.4 per cent were found to be adulterated 'Check the ingredients on the label,' experts from Condrell Food Products said. 'Pure honey has only one ingredient honey.' Seven samples were taken from Victoria, six from Queensland, two from New South Wales, and nine from Tasmania. Of the Victorian samples, 29 per cent tested as impure, with a third of brands from Queensland, half from New South Wales and 27 per cent from Tasmania also showing adulteration. All of the samples sourced from South Australia and Western Australia were found to be pure. Professor Mark Taylor and PhD student Xiaoteng Zhou carried out the testing at the National Measurement Institute, the testing facility also used by Border Force for drugs testing. The study, by scientists at Macquarie University (pictured), examined 100 honey samples globally, including 38 Australian brands More than half of the samples from Asia, predominantly those from China, tested as impure Out of the international honeys tested, 27 per cent showed impurities. More than half of the samples from Asia, predominantly those from China, were positive for adulteration. Global demand for honey is on the rise as consumers are looking for natural alternatives to cane sugar and artificial sweeteners. 'High demand for honey is likely to continue incentivising companies to produce adulterated or counterfeit honey to increase output volumes,' Nathan Cloutman, IBISWorld Senior Industry Analyst, told Daily Mail Australia. He said that testing in Australia is largely outdated, and more investigations are needed in order to prevent honey fraud. 'Australia prides itself on its high-quality produce - more rigorous, more updated testing is needed,' he said. Testing took place at the National Measurement Institute - also used by Border Force for drugs testing - by Professor Mark Taylor (left) and PhD student Xiaoteng Zhou (right) Today's report, provided to a joint investigation by Fairfax media and ABC, follows a previous study by Germany's Quality Services International (QSI) lab that discovered many honeys contain a number of different sugar syrups. 'The issue of authentication of honey cannot be ignored in the international honey market, not only in Asian countries but also European and Oceanic countries,' the study said. The report, paired with other recent findings, is expected to put pressure on authorities to start testing local honey. However, Peter McDonald from the Australia Honey Bee Industry Council (AHBIC), said it was 'up to the individual companies that actually buy the honey to then test'. 'I would say there is not a problem in Australia, I am fully confident the Australian honey bee industry is clean and green and we have the best product in the world,' he said. An incredible collection of photographs captures the moment a family of lions sprawl out across a tree in slumber bringing new meaning to the term 'cat nap'. Other incredible images show the lions glaring at the cameraman who has interrupted their lazy day and their legs dangling from the branches. The striking pictures were taken in Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda by Thomas Plura, from Germany but now living in Kigali, Rwanda. An incredible collection of photographs captures the moment a family of lions sprawl out across a tree in slumber bringing new meaning to the term 'cat nap' The striking pictures were taken in Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda by Thomas Plura, from Germany but now living in Kigali, Rwanda 'In my images I try to capture the beauty of the Ugandan wildlife, be it the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha and Queen Elizabeth National Park or the endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi, where over half of the remaining total population lives,' he said. 'Our world is so busy with technology, inventions, politics and arguments and war. Too many negative things and I want to capture some of the remaining beautiful things on our planet. 'I usually sit in the car for a while until the animals feel comfortable, then I climb slowly up to the open roof. The lion prefers grassy plains and savannahs, scrub bordering rivers and open woodlands with bushes 'My drivers know the area well and they can get me very close to the trees where those lions sleep in so that I don't have to use too much zoom to get good shots. 'Standing on the top of a safari land cruiser roof when it is shifted up you can be almost at the same height as some of the lions and take nice pictures.' The lion prefers grassy plains and savannahs, scrub bordering rivers and open woodlands with bushes. It is absent from rainforest and rarely enters closed forest. Lions occur in savannah grasslands with scattered Acacia trees, which serve as shade. The lion prefers grassy plains and savannahs, scrub bordering rivers and open woodlands with bushes. It is absent from rainforest and rarely enters closed forest. Lions occur in savannah grasslands with scattered Acacia trees, which serve as shade Plura, who took these photographs with a Canon EOD 5D Mark III, explained why he loves this kind of photography. 'I love the environment during the tour and I love especially what the photos show about the areas, the animals and people in those countries,' he said. 'In the western world there are so many negative things spread about Africa in general and Uganda/Rwanda especially and I want the people to see the reality. 'The people are good, the countries are not as miserable as often described and the wildlife and landscape is just fantastic. The striking pictures were taken in Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda by the managing director of Africa Horizon Safaris, Thomas Plura The snoozing big cats were happy to escape the scorching Ugandan heat opting for the cool shade of the trees 'Uganda and Rwanda have a huge range of species including many endangered animals and those two countries put up an endless fight to save and conserve those animals. With my photos I want to capture and show this effort and that it is working. 'I want to encourage people to come and go on a tour through East Africa at least once in their life. That has nothing to do with making profits, but for two other reasons. 'One, it is a trip of a lifetime, seeing totally different cultures and how people can be happy without total wealth and overuse of technology and seeing the world's most stunning animals in their real natural habitat instead of a zoo-cage can make you see your own life from a completely different point of view. Other incredible images show the lions glaring at the cameraman who has interrupted their lazy day and their legs dangling from the branches 'Two, with every tour someone takes in East Africa, the communities like the Batwa-people in Bwindi, Uganda and others get a percentage as support which enables them to get their children educated, properly clothed and more and better material for farming and planting. Another part of the money goes straight for the conservation of the most endangered animals like the mountain gorilla (only 880 left in the world, 480 of them in Uganda, the rest is split between Rwanda and Congo) and the Rhinos (Uganda- ZIWA Rhino Sanctuary) and more. 'With the money from the tours (entrance fees, vehicle charges etc) they not only protect the animals left but they also try to increase their population.' A student production of West Side Story at Kent State University has been cancelled after uproar that white students had been cast to play Latino characters. Latino students who auditioned for roles playing members of the 'Sharks', a Puerto Rican street gang in the musical, were outraged after the three leading roles all went to non-Latino students. Kent State musical theater major Bridgett Martinez, whose parents are from Puerto Rico, auditioned for her dream role as the romantic lead Maria, and was devastated when a white student landed the part. The musical, an adaptation of Romeo And Juliet, is set in 1950s New York City and tells the story of forbidden love between the leader of the Polish-American Jets and the sister of the Sharks' leader. Bridgett Martinez (above), whose parents are from Puerto Rico, was devastated when her dream role as West Side Story romantic lead Maria went to a white student Sharks leader Bernardo (left) and Jets leader Riff (right) square off in the famous rumble scene from the original Broadway production of West Side Story 'I was just blown away because it was not correct at all,' Martinez, 20, told student publication KentWired. 'I saw myself as Maria.' Instead, Martinez was cast as understudy for the role of Maria. 'None of the three Latino leads were cast as Latino,' she noted. Theater major Viviana Cardenas, 21, auditioned for another leading role as Puerto Rican character Anita, but was disappointed when the role went to a black student. Cardenas, who is president of the school's Latin/x in Theater club, told the student outlet that she believed the professors had erred by failing to take ethnicity into account during casting. 'I think the professors who made the decision wanted the best for the show, and that's what they considered, and that's it,' she said. 'I think there are more things that need to be considered than just that.' The outcry prompted the theater department to hold a town-hall style meeting last month, overseen by officials from the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Rita Moreno is seen portraying Anita in the 1961 film version of West Side Story Following the meeting, Eric van Baars, the director of the School of Theatre and Dance, announced that West Side Story was cancelled, and that the department would mount Children Of Eden instead. In a statement, van Baars said that the production was cancelled in response to outcry raised over the casting. He said that Kent State's theater department supports 'the progression of conscious casting'. 'Conscious casting' is a modification to the concept of 'colorblind casting', the formerly popular approach of casting roles without regard to the actor's race. The 'conscious' approach actively seeks to cast non-whites into roles written for white characters. The reverse is strictly to be avoided under this approach, however. At Kent State, not everyone was pleased with the decision to cancel West Side Story. Theater minor Skyler Dye told Campus Reform that the decision to cancel West Side Story was 'bowing to racists' who 'cant see anything but skin color'. Martinez told KentWired that she would advocate for to 'have a person of color in that room all the time auditions, callbacks, cast lists being made.' 'Because we should have someone on our side in that room,' she added. Terrified British tourists ran for their lives after two gunmen opened fire in a holiday resort near Marbella. Holidaymakers and locals were reportedly forced to lock themselves inside cafes and bars after gun shots were heard in the seaside town of Estepona. Footage from the scene showed dozens of stunned people crowded in outside seating areas of cafes after the apparent shootout. Holidaymakers and locals ran for their lives after two gunmen opened fire in a holiday resort near Marbella Tables and chairs were seen strewn across the floor in one clip posted to social media, the Sun reported. Four nearby police cars were still flashing blue lights as they blocked the road on the Costa Del Sol. Witnesses reported how a panic-stricken stampede of people charged down the promenade after nine gun shots were allegedly heard at around 10.45pm. One British expat was locked inside the Rincon Toscano restaurant for around 20 minutes. Holidaymakers and locals were reportedly forced to lock themselves in cafes and bars in the resort town of Estepona Witnesses reported a panic-stricken stampede of people charged down the promenade after nine gun shots were allegedly heard She told the Olive Press: 'People were in a panic and started running into restaurants. 'We had no idea what was happening, we've all got memories of what happened in Paris and Barcelona, we thought it might have been a terrorist attack.' A waiter said: 'I thought it was fake then I saw everyone running, it was insane.' Police are believed to have chased down and arrested two armed suspects after the incident began outside the Mr Noodles restaurant. No casualties have been reported and the scene remained cordoned off this evening. Leading car makers yesterday lined up to warn Britain about the chilling impact of a no-deal Brexit on the industry. The bosses of Vauxhall, BMW, Jaguar Land Rover and Toyota were among those to speak out at the Paris Motor Show. Carlos Tavares, chief executive of Vauxhall owner PSA, said there would be dramatic consequences for its UK plants if Britain leaves with no deal. Vauxhall has plants at Ellesmere Port in Cheshire, where it makes the Astra, and Luton in Bedfordshire (pictured) where it builds the Vivaro van Vauxhall has plants at Ellesmere Port in Cheshire, where it makes the Astra, and Luton in Bedfordshire, where it builds the Vivaro van. Mr Tavares said: If we dont have free trade conditions then, of course, we will have to adapt. 'That may have dramatic consequences for our operations in the UK which, of course, we would like to avoid as much as possible. So for us the situation is crystal clear, we need free trade. That is the number one request His comments were echoed by the British chief executive of French car maker Citroen, which is also owned by PSA. Vauxhall Motors factory in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire. hief executive of Vauxhall owner PSA, said there would be dramatic consequences if Britain leaves with no deal Linda Jackson said: You cant set your stall out until you know where things are going. We invested last year in Luton. We could do more. But were holding back until we see where were going. We have got plans for a hard Brexit and we have got plans for a soft Brexit. Harald Kruger, boss of BMW, which owns Mini in Oxford, the Hams Hall engine plant near Birmingham, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars at Goodwood, West Sussex, said it was vital to conclude a deal that maintains free trade to make the business safe for the future in the UK. Jaguar Land Rover has yet to decide on whether to build electric cars in Britain due to uncertainty over Brexit. Chief executive Ralf Speth said the decision could be made at the very last moment, adding: We dont know where we can do the investment best. A food delivery driver has been caught on camera helping himself to a meal while he waited for an unsuspecting customer to come to the door. The sneaky UberEats employee was seen approaching a residential address and ringing the door bell before peeking inside the bag and removing a chip. The video was captured by a friend of Hot Breakfast radio host Eddie McGuire, who told listeners he suspects deliverers often left his meals 'feeling a little light'. Home security footage has exposed a food delivery driver helping himself to a meal while he waited for an unsuspecting customer to come to the door The worker was caught in the act in Melbourne at 6.20pm last Monday, leaving his victim so amused he contacted McGuire to share the footage. 'This has been a bit of a common occurrence at my place where sometimes the Uber [Eats] comes in and you go 'it's a bit light',' McGuire said on Monday's program. 'Anyway, so a good friend of mine had the home security system going and he said 'you need to come and have a look at this one, old pal'.' In clear view of the security camera, the man chowed down on a sizable fry and proceeded to chew away while directly in front of the door. The worker was caught in the act last week in Melbourne at about 6.20pm on Monday - his victim so amused he contacted McGuire to share his findings He managed to go undetected, with the customer's arm emerging from the door to collect the order just moments later. McGuire's co-host Wil Anderson sided with the delivery man, stating the 'poor guy' wasn't paid very well and 'if you can't get a tip, you've gotta get a chip'. The incident struck a nerve with many people online, with some calling on the employee to be sacked and others saying it served customers right for 'being lazy'. Others thought the driver deserved to sneak the odd chip, as UberEats employees weren't paid much and were rarely tipped by customers. The deliveryman went undetected, with the customer's arm emerging from the door to collect the order just moments after he ate the chip In a statement to Daily Mail Australia, an UberEats spokesperson said: 'We know how important food safety is, and we ask delivery partners to take great care during the delivery process to ensure the quality of meals they deliver for restaurants reflect the restaurant's standards. 'Delivery partners using UberEats are expected to comply with the Uber Eats community guidelines which explain they can lose access to the app for tampering with orders. 'We encourage users of the app to contact us with any concerns or issues they may be having and we will work to resolve these with them.' Legal watchdogs are overwhelmed with cases of crooked solicitors trying to keep illegal migrants in the UK, a former judge has claimed. James Hanratty, an immigration judge for 16 years, said small legal firms that help liars and chancers get into Britain are running rings around regulators. He said it was disgraceful that the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has in the past taken no action when legal professionals broke the law. He highlighted a case before him where a lawyer made a false statement for a Somali woman who claimed her life was in danger because she was from a minority clan. James Hanratty (pictured), an immigration judge for 16 years, said small legal firms that help liars and chancers get into Britain are running rings around regulators She said her husband had been murdered by a warlord at their home even though her spouse had come to England 18 months earlier to claim asylum himself. Mr Hanratty said the solicitors acting for the woman had also represented her husband, so they knew her story was not true and had therefore assisted in making a false statement. The judge reported the firm for perverting the course of justice, but he claimed the regulator took no action because it was too busy. He added: I think the... enforcement teams are overwhelmed by these cases. Mr Hanratty, who was also chief executive at the Royal Courts of Justice, was speaking at Henley Literary Festival on Monday to promote his book, The Making of an Immigration Judge. He said: I had a case where a lady from Somalia came before me and her story was that she had found her husband on the doorstep of their house with his throat cut by the local warlord so she had to flee to England. The Home Office barrister asked her to explain how this happened. He then said there seems to be a problem here as your husband came over to England 18 months ago and claimed asylum and youre saying hes dead on the doorstep in Mogadishu. There was a stunned silence but she had no answer and shouted at me. Then I found out that the solicitors acted for both the husband and for her, and so they knew that the statement they had prepared for her was rubbish. I reported it and the regulator unbelievably took no action saying that there was no damage to the public and were very busy. This was five years ago. He said smaller law firms acting in migration cases can be difficult to track because, when they are at risk of investigation, they close down and operate again five doors down under a different name. The SRA, part of the Law Society Group, regulates more than 180,000 solicitors in England and Wales and receives 10,000 reports of code breaches each year. It said cases involving migration solicitors are a big issue for the regulator. A spokesman added that the SRA does not have a record of Mr Hanrattys report, but cases involving criminal activity will be referred to the police. This is a screenshot of the call on the killer's Instagram story Amir Khan has provoked outrage by chatting to a convicted killer with an illegal phone in jail and telling him: 'Keep your chin up bro.' The boxer, 31, had a FaceTime call with Philip Merry, who is serving eight years for manslaughter after beating to death father-of-five Steve McKinnon in a pub fight in Leicester in 2014. Merry, 31, posted a screenshot of the call on his Instagram story with the caption: 'When Amir Khan Facetimes you to say 'Keep your chin up bro'. Big love bro'. The victim's widow called Khan's behaviour 'disgusting' - but he claims he was asked to make the call on a fan's phone and did not know the person he was calling was in prison. Mr McKinnon's widow Clare told The Sun: 'Amir Khan is meant to be a role model. It's disgusting he would back someone like Merry. 'He should be round here telling me to keep my chin up after what I've been through. 'Merry is meant to be in prison serving his punishment, not getting morale-boosting messages from the likes of Khan. How's Merry even got a phone in prison?' Merry was convicted of manslaughter along with Gurdev Sangha, 26, and Eugene Bell, 32, at Nottingham Crown Court in 2016. The three men attacked McKinnon by the Durham Ox pub in Leicester after he intervened when two of them launched an unprovoked attack on his stepson. He fell to the floor and suffered a brain injury, before dying in hospital two days later. Bell was sentenced to ten years in prison. A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: 'This behaviour is unacceptable and we have had this account taken down.' A spokesman for Khan said: 'We can confirm that Amir was provided with a mobile phone from a fan and asked to speak to his friend (something that occurs frequently). 'There was no prior notice that his friend was in prison or had been convicted of such a serious crime. 'To Amir's knowledge, he has never intentionally used his mobile telephone to FaceTime anyone in prison.' Merry (pictured), 31, posted a screenshot of the call on his Instagram story with the caption: 'When Amir Khan Facetimes you to say 'Keep your chin up bro'. Big love bro' Father-of-five Steve McKinnon was killed in a pub fight in Leicester in 2014 after protecting his stepson who was attacked Khan had a controversial appearance on I'm A Celebrity last year, when he made a number of gaffes, including asking whether the UK has ever had a female Prime Minister. Despite Theresa May being in power, the boxing star left fans reeling when he asked the 'idiotic' question. Viewers also accused him of 'casual sexism' after he called Georgia Toffolo a 'small little girl' while assessing her Kung Fu technique. Last August, Amir was forced to apologise to boxer Anthony Joshua for accusing him of cheating with his wife after he was threatened with legal action. The heavyweight boxer got his advisers involved after a series of sensational tweets in which Khan shared supposed messages between Joshua and his wife online. Faryal Makhdoom broke her silence on the public spat to reveal the Snapchat messages were fake, adding that she had never met Joshua. After several social media digs between the pair, however, Amir and Faryal finally apologised over their very public falling out. Nearly two years after Marissa Mayer stepped down as chief officer at Yahoo, the tech executive has been working to improve her community for the betterment of women and their families. The mother-of-three, who left her position in January 2017, announced a proposal Monday night at a council meeting in Palo Alto, California, to revamp an old funeral home she owns into a private women's club. The Corner House on Addison would take place of Roller & Hapgood & Tinney, which Mayer hosted flashy Halloween parties that got busted by the cops after they received noise complaints from fuming neighbors. The private club, she said, would be a 'vibrant' and 'welcoming space for traditional and nontraditional' female professionals to 'collaborate, work, learn, find support and build community.' Scroll down for video Former Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer (seen December 2017 in California) proposed a plan Monday to turn a mortuary into a private women's social club A development plan for the Corner House on Addison in Palo Alto is pictured above Mayer received mixed reactions from residents and community officials on Monday, who mostly thought the proposal was ludicrous. 'This would be incredibly disruptive to the neighborhood, as well as unsafe with all the extra traffic and people coming to the neighborhood,' resident Lucinda Abbott said in a statement to KPIX 5. Resident Hap Abbott said locals 'think this project would be good somewhere' other than their own community. Abbott added: 'This is not an area where corporate events need to be taking place.' Palo Alto Planning Manager, Josie Gerhardt, also expressed concern about the potential club - which would hold hundreds of events and concerts annually and attract up to 400 people on a weekend night, according to the Palo Alto Daily Post. The Corner House on Addison would take the place of old mortuary Roller & Hapgood & Tinney Mayer hosted flashy Halloween parties that got busted by the cops after they received noise complaints from fuming neighbors Mayer is seen speaking at the city council meeting Monday. Locals thought the plan was ludicrous 'Theres a lot of questions about what kind of use is being proposed here. 'There is some concern about parking traffic and noise and things like that but we dont have all of the details to give all of the answers at this moment,' Gerhardt told KPIX 5. Resident Sharon Parkingson further slammed Mayer, who she said is using her status and wealth to take control of the neighborhood. 'She is a rich person who bought a house in the neighborhood and is now buying up other parts of the neighborhood,' Parkingson said. 'Now she thinks shes in charge of the neighborhood.' Mayer submitted an application for a permit to Palo Alto City Hall earlier this spring. President Donald Trump has blasted Christine Blasey Ford for the holes in her accusation against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, and defended his pick for the high court. Trump's remarks came at a midterm campaign rally on Tuesday night at the Landers Center Arena in Southaven, Mississippi, a suburb of Memphis in the far northwest corner of the state. 'Guilty until proven innocent, that's very dangerous for our country,' Trump said of Ford's testimony last week that Kavanaugh attempted to hold her down and remove her clothes in 1982, when they were both in high school. Kavanaugh strongly denies the allegation. 'I had one beer!' Trump told the noisy crowd, mocking Ford's testimony that she can't remember the date or location of the alleged attack, but was sure that she had only consumed one beer. Trump arrives at a midterm campaign rally on Tuesday night in Southaven, Mississippi. Trump mocked Christine Blasey Ford (left) for claiming she knew she had just one beer the day she claims Kavanaugh (right) attacked her, but could offer no details about the location Trump continued in a mock cross-examination of Ford: 'How did you get home? 'I don't remember.' How did you get there? 'I don't remember.' Where is the place? 'I don't remember.' How many years ago was it? 'I don't know. I don't know. I don't know.'' 'What neighborhood was it in? 'I don't know.' Where's the house? 'I don't know. Upstairs. Downstairs. I don't know. But I had one beer that's the only thing I remember!'' Trump said. Trump said that the Democrats opposed to Kavanaugh's nomination are 'evil people' who are out to 'destroy people.' He said of Kavanaugh: 'a man's life is in tatters. A man's life is shattered.' Trump said that Kavanaugh is 'like a perfect person who is destined for the Supreme Court.' 'He's led a life that's like unbelievable,' the President added. As soon as Trump mentioned Kavanaugh's name, the crowd in the arena began chanting, 'We want Kavanaugh'. Trump arrives at a MAGA rally at Landers Center in Southaven, Mississippi on Tuesday Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena in Mississippi on Tuesday The President said that he was sticking up for Kavanaugh because he believed him that the allegations were false, not out of personal loyalty. 'I don't even know him. I met him for the first time a few weeks ago. It's not like I want to protect my friend,' Trump said. Trump expanded on the subject of the allegations against Kavanaugh by saying that the men of the nation are now under constant threat of false accusations. 'Think of your son. Think of your husband,' Trump said. He added that he himself has experienced 'many false allegations'. Trump posed a hypothetical situation about a bright young man who had just gotten at job 'at IBM or General Motors' but is falsely accused of sexual misconduct. 'What do I do Mom? What do I do Mom?' he said, imagining the panicked son pleading with his mother for advice. 'It's a damn sad situation,' Trump continued. Twitter exploded with outrage as news of Trump's remarks spread, with Alyssa Milano - who outed herself as a victim of sex assault last week - leading the charge. Alyssa Milano, who came forward as the victim of sexual assault last week and sat behind Dr Ford as she testified to the Senate last week, led an outpouring of rage on Twitter Michael Bromwich, one of the lawyers who sat alongside Dr Ford as she testified, also disparaged Trump's speech as 'a vicious, vile and soulless attack' Star Trek actor Geroge Takei said that Americans should be 'ashamed' of the President Milano also sat behind Christine Blasey Ford and Brett Kavanaugh as they gave their testimony to the Senate Judiciary Committee last week. Tweeting at Donald Trump Jr, she said: 'Your father is an a**hole. This is the most misogynist display of barbaric insensitivity that I've ever seen. 'This is why I didn't report. This right here. Women are watching. And we vote.' Also venting his anger online was Michael Bromwich, one of the lawyers who sat alongside Ford during her testimony. He wrote: 'A vicious, vile and soulless attack on Dr Christine Blasey Ford. Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? 'She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice.' Star Trek actor Geroge Takei also weighed in, saying that America should be 'ashamed' of the President, while fellow star Billy Baldwin called his comments 'the death of shame.' Trump was speaking at the 'Make America Great Again' rally in support of Mississippi's two incumbent US senators, Cindy Hyde-Smith and Roger Wicker, both Republicans. Trump was speaking at the 'Make America Great Again' rally in support of Mississippi's two incumbent US senators, Cindy Hyde-Smith (above) and Roger Wicker People cheer during the MAGA rally with Trump on Tuesday night in Mississippi Due to a special election to fill the seat that Hyde-Smith was appointed to earlier this year, both Senate seats in Mississippi are up for re-election in the November 6 midterm election. Hyde-Smith joined Trump on the stage at the really, where he called her a 'true Mississippi patriot.' She lauded Trump and said to the crowd: 'Is he not the best president we have ever had?' Hyde-Smith was appointed this year to fill the seat of Republican Thad Cochran. She faces Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bernard Bartee in next month's special election for the remainder of the two-year term. Trump said a vote for Espy is a vote for the Democrat agenda for 'open borders and radical socialism.' He urged citizens to vote Republican in the midterms and said that Democrats would 'plunge our country into gridlock and chaos like we've never seen before.' Prior to the rally, numerous groups of Trump supporters gathered along the motorcade route from the airport to the Landers Center. The crowd in the arena, which holds 8,400, warmed up with a prayer and the singing of the National Anthem. Opening speeches before Trump arrived also touched on abortion, Brett Kavanaugh, midterm elections and tax cuts. The Kisan Kranti Yatra, where hundreds of North Indian farmers marched from Haridwar in Uttarakhand to Delhi from September 23, has just ended. The leaders of Bharatiya Kisan Union, the organisation which called for the protest march claims they have been successful in sensitising the Central Government on key issues facing the farmers and Indian agriculture. What are the demands that were considered by the government? Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops MSP has always been a contentious issue. The government has been announcing MSP for bigger set of crops each year, but the farmers have always considered it to be inadequate, and have always been complaining that they were not getting even the government approved MSP in real market conditions. The government has acknowledged the problem, but there cannot be an easy solution. NGT ban on old diesel vehicles (tractors) Farmers want tractors to be kept out of the National Green Tribunal's ban on 10 year old diesel vehicles in the National Capital Region of Delhi. Government says they will consider approaching NGT with this demand. GST cut on farm implements Farmers want agricultural implements to be tax free, or less taxed. The government has agreed to take the matter to the GST Council, the decision making body. Sugarcane Prices The government has announced a sugarcane package, but farmers, especially the agitating farmers of UP, are yet to see their sugarcane dues getting cleared. Farmers want more price for sugarcane, and its timely payment. As a policy, there is no conflict here, though one needs to see how it can be solved While these are some of the issues where the government seems to have given a positive response, there were several other issues that remain unattended. What were the other issues? Calculation of MSP under the Swaminathan formula: While the government has agreed to calculate MSP on the basis of actual cost plus 50 per cent extra, the farmers wanted it to be calculated under a different formulae suggested by eminent agriculture scientist M S Swaminathan in the Farmers Commission report some years ago. Since this type of calculation will include account for the rentals and interest forgone on owned land and fixed capital assets, the government had ruled out it as impractical. Minimum Income Support The agitators had demanded that small and marginal farmers above 60 years of age should be assured an minimum monthly income of Rs 5,000 as pension. The government was not willing to take up any additional commitment that involves financial burden. Jobs for dependents of farmers who committed suicide The protestors claimed that in the last 10 years over 3 lakh farmers committed suicide and wanted at least one member of the family should be given government jobs. The Centre's position is that the matter should be considered by respective state governments. WTO and FTAs Farmers wanted the government to keep agriculture out of World Trade Negotiations. It also wants a ban on import of all commodities that India is self sufficient. Land Acquisition The farmers want land acquisition powers to remain with the Central Government. Not an easy task given the central-state relationships that needs to be worked out even for such a discussion. There has also been a demand for a joint session of the Parliament to debate the issues and thrash out problems that are being faced by the farmers. Given the kind of support farmers' agitations are getting from the opposition parties, the government will see more demands arising from one of the most vulnerable sections of Indian society in the coming days. Not all the demands will be easy to accept, but centre needs to learn how to deal with it. Today every smartphone in America will receive a Presidential Alert a forthcoming service via Wireless Emergency Alert System that Donald Trump is using in case of national emergency. The message will go out to smartphones at 2.18pm ET Wednesday, as the US President tests how it will work in a new collaboration with The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). It's very similar to Amber Alerts, however unlike the noisy notifications that warn people in a particular area of a child abduction - people cannot opt out of this one. Scroll down for video Today every smartphone in America will receive a Presidential Alert at 2.18pm then TVs and radios will be interrupted at 2.20pm Wednesday by order of Donald Trump. Trump is seen above speaking in Mississippi during a rally Tuesday Anyone within range of a working cell tower and with a mobile device that is switched on will receive the message on their screens whether they like it or not. The FEMA website states that the cell network provider must participate in WEA in order for the message to go through. Approximately 100 networks have deals with FEMA and the alerts are estimated to reach about 95 per cent of Americans. This afternoon (or morning for those on the West Coast) there will be no need to respond though. 'THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System,' the message will state. 'No action is needed.' But the special tone and vibrations broadcast twice - are not the only ones guaranteed to get the attention of people all over the country today. Within two minutes another message will go out. The second one is will be a test of the Emergency Alert System that looks at the effectiveness of sending a message via broadcast, cable, satellite and wireless providers. Anyone with their TV or radio on should expect the interruption. Anyone within range of a working cell tower and with a mobile device that is switched on will receive the message on their screens whether they like it or not Homeland Security send a message confirming the alert on Tuesday afternoon Scheduled for 2.20pm, FEMA's experiment with the Federal Communications Commission looks at the 'operational readiness of the infrastructure for distribution of a national message and determine whether improvements are needed'. Users won't be charged for the alerts and while FEMA cannot track the people who receive the messages they will be asking for feedback. The senders also will not be able to use the data of recipients. It's the same kind of message that warns people of critical situations, including dangerous weather, but the test was put on hold due to a real emergency last month. Trump's message was initially planned for September 20 but was postponed due to Hurricane Florence. Part of the message people across the country will get explains: 'If this had been an actual emergency an official message would have followed the tone alert you heard at the start of this message. 'A similar wireless emergency alert test message has been sent to all cell phones nationwide. Some cell phones will receive the message; others will not.' Some Americans were considered the president wouldn't use the service for good Others were excited for the country-wide message sending people into a frenzy FEMA replied to concerned Americans who complained about the alerts coming Wednesday But some Twitter users were concerned the president may use the platform in the same enthusiastic way he uses social media. 'The only Presidential Alert I want to receive pertains to a resignation.' James Hood said. Others were just excited to know all cell phones will be buzzing at the same time. 'If you are in a place with many people, PLEASE be recording video beforehand!' Bob Cat wrote. 'Grand Central Terminal would be a GREAT place to be! Thousands of phones, even the iPhones on display in the Apple store, all alerting!' FEMA reassured users the service will not be used for any reason other than 'national emergencies'. Captain of industry Sir Robert Malpas was rescued by a passer-by, a court was told A former Eurotunnel boss has told how he felt himself 'flying' onto Tube tracks after he was pushed from behind on his way from a pensioners lunch. CCTV footage played at the Old Bailey showed the moment Paul Crossley, 46, allegedly sent 91-year-old Sir Robert Malpas sprawling on to the rails at Marble Arch station. He was rescued by a heroic passer-by but left with a fractured pelvis and a gash to the head requiring 12 stitches following the incident on April 27. In a statement read to jurors in court, retired Sir Robert said he had been to a pensioners lunch in central London before using his freedom pass for his planned journey to Oxford Circus on the Central line. 'As I was walking along the platform I felt a two-handed push to my back,' said Sir Robert, who had been wearing a Burberry raincoat, suit and tie and carrying an umbrella. 'I felt myself flying over the tracks and landing on the rails. I may have been concussed but only for a very short time. I banged my head on the rails.' Sir Robert said he saw and heard nothing of his attacker, adding: 'I have absolutely no idea why anyone I know would do this or indeed any other individual. 'I became aware of a male to my right. The male lifted me by my upper body. I was then moved up to the platform for others to help me.' His rescuer was French teacher Riyad El Hussani, who had just finished work at the Dorchester Hotel in Mayfair. Riyad El Hussani (pictured) jumped on to the tracks at Marble Arch station on the London Underground with the electronic arrivals board showing one minute until the next train He said he heard 'screams and shouting' before running 20 metres to where Sir Robert lay with his clothes and umbrella covered in blood. 'I saw lots of people standing around and it looked like they wanted to help him,' Mr El Hussani said. 'I then heard people shouting, "get up" and "get out". 'I then jumped straight on to the tracks to save his life. My hands stopped my fall on the tracks. I then grabbed the male. 'People were screaming at me to get up. I then looked over my left shoulder and could see and hear a train. The danger then kicked in. 'I grabbed the male and pushed him up to the right before the platform. I then felt peoples hands on me and him.' Mr El Hussani was left with a burn on his right hand from touching the electrified track. 'Im still in shock with whats happened. I also feel sad as I could have lost my life twice,' he said. 'I was scared that when I was on the tracks I could have been electrocuted and also could have then been hit by a train.' Sir Robert, who was knighted by the Queen in 1998, is the former chairman of Eurotunnel Another man, Tobias French, told of his own lucky escape, saying he was pushed by Crossley as he waited for a train at Tottenham Court Road station earlier the same day. 'I heard the sound of quick footsteps behind me. I then felt two hands behind on my upper back and then an aggressive push towards the Tube tracks when the Tube was no more than 10 metres away.' He said the shove made him step forward, but he regained his balance, only to turn around and be pushed again to the upper body. Mr French was able to stay on the platform, while Crossley was pulled to the ground by another passenger, jurors were told. He said his attacker 'curled into a ball' by putting his hands around his head, while Mr French asked him: 'What the f***?' Witnesses described seeing a scuffle and hearing the 'whoosh of the train' and the 'trundle of the platform' as the Tube pulled into the station. 'At the time of the incident I didnt think I was going to die,' said Mr French in a statement. 'It all happened so quickly, I didnt have time to think like that. I was just concerned with defending myself and keeping myself from being pushed into the tracks.' Mr French said he started to reflect on what could have happened after speaking to other passengers. 'I remember thinking I was very lucky to be alive,' he said. 'There was a train coming in my direction at the time and if I had been pushed in front of it, Im certain I would have been killed. 'I was fortunate I was quick to defend myself along with help from a member of the public.' Crossley, from east London, denies two charges of attempted murder and an alternative count of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm to Mr French. He has pleaded guilty to a wounding charge in relation to the attack on Sir Robert. Crossley is said to have told members of the public who detained him: 'Its not right, I know its wrong.' He told police 'I didnt get much sleep last night' when officers arrived, jurors heard. The trial continues. A statue of Captain James Cook in New Zealand will be taken down after it was vandalised by the Maori community who disagreed with it. Locals in Gisborne, on the North Island, have been daubing the statue in paint or stealing its sword since it was erected in 1969 without consultation. But with the 250th anniversary of Cook's landing approaching next year, Gisborne council has voted unanimously to move the statue to please the Ngati Oneone tribe, which says its ancestors arrived long before the British explorer landed and have labelled him a 'murderer'. A statue (pictured) of Captain James Cook in New Zealand will be taken down after it was vandalised by the Maori community who disagreed with it Captain James Cook: The man who went 'farther than any man has been before me' Captain James Cook was a British explorer, navigator, cartographer, and captain in the Royal Navy. Cook made detailed maps of Newfoundland prior to making three voyages to the Pacific Ocean, during which he achieved the first recorded European contact with the eastern coastline of Australia and the Hawaiian Islands, and the first recorded circumnavigation of New Zealand. Cook joined the British merchant navy as a teenager and joined the Royal Navy in 1755. He fought in the Seven Years' War and later surveyed and mapped much of the entrance to the Saint Lawrence River during the siege of Quebec. In 1766 he was commissioned as commander of HMS Endeavour for the first of three Pacific voyages. Cook was attacked and killed in 1779 during his third exploratory voyage in the Pacific while attempting to kidnap a Hawaiian chief, in order to reclaim a cutter stolen from one of his ships. Advertisement The Ngati Oneone say Cook's crew shot and killed six of their tribe, and they blame him for opening up the pathway with Europe, which brought settlements from the West and the demise of their own culture. The tribute, atop an ancestral hill called Titirangi, could be replaced with one of Raikaitane, the Maori chief at the time of Cook's landing in 1796. There are also calls to rename the area around Cook's Plaza, which the captain dubbed 'Poverty Bay' after landing there but being unable to restock his ship. Councillor Meredith Akuhata-Brown said: 'It's significant because James never climbed Titirangi and so for local iwi [tribes people] it's been a massive disappointment that he's maintained that space for as long as he has.' She added it would see a more 'honest' history of New Zealand discussed from now on. The statue will be housed in nearby Tairawhiti Museum until a permanent place is found for it. It is part of a growing push to remove statues of colonial figures in New Zealand, especially those accused of atrocities towards the Maoris. Cook's statue has previously been covered in red paint and had a white bikini painted on to it. His ship, HMS Endeavour, on which he discovered New Zealand and Australia, has been found at the bottom of a harbour off America's east coast, experts believe. It was sold as a prisoner transport ship and sculled during the American War of Independence in a bid to block off Rhode Island harbour. Eager travellers will be able to get their hands on very cheap flights to India in November. AirAsia is offering cheap flights from Sydney to New Delhi for a shocking $249 - at least half the price of a typical one-way ticket to India. But there's a catch. AirAsia is offering cheap flights from Sydney to New Delhi (pictured) for a shocking $249 The deal is at least half the price of a typical one-way ticket to India The discount flights will only be offered for six days of the month, according to the airline's website. AirAsia will also offer flights to Hong Kong for $252 next month. Flying from Sydney to Phnom Penh costs $222 in November too. Travellers wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city will be able to snag a one-way flight to the airlines newest destination, Phu Quoc, for $290. Once the busy holiday period dies down there are also cheap flights on offer to Chiang Mai for $297 in January. Theresa May is under pressure from ministers to set a timetable for her departure, it was claimed last night. Sources said it was a question of when not if she resigns as Prime Minister. The Telegraph reported discussions have begun about when Mrs May should be ousted if she refuses to go before the next election. Some Cabinet ministers want her to go immediately after the UK leaves the EU next March - while others would give her until 2020 if she used the next Tory conference to announce a departure date. Britain's Prime Minster Theresa May is under pressure from ministers to set a timetable for departure. (pictured: preparing her keynote speak for conference) Prime Minister Theresa May arrives at the Conservative Party annual conference. The Prime Minister will want to attempt to quell widening rifts over Brexit in her party Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson called on the Prime Minister Theresa May to abandon her Brexit plan at conference One Cabinet source told The Telegraph: There are two schools of thought in the Cabinet. 'One possibility is that she will be forced out straight after we leave the EU in March next year to bring in a new broom who can rebuild the party before the next election. Theresa May is under pressure from ministers to set a timetable for departure But there is a growing feeling that she could be allowed to stay on for longer than that, to get Brexit completely done and dusted so that the next leader can focus completely on domestic policy. That would mean she would be given one more party conference in a years time, but she would need to use that conference to announce when she intended to stand down. Another source said: One of the reasons she may be allowed to stay on until 2020 is that most of the party still doesnt think there is an obvious candidate to replace her who would command widespread support. Waiting a little longer would give a younger candidate, maybe someone no one is yet talking about, time to garner support. If you want the party to feel new and fresh going into the next election, you dont necessarily want someone to be leader for more than a couple of years beforehand.' The Yorkshire ripper has expressed concern he may have cancer after his 'swollen' testicle reached five times its normal size. Peter Sutcliffe, 72, who is currently serving a life sentence for murdering 13 women and attempting to murder another seven, is reportedly in agony as a result. The killer, who is currently serving time at Durham's Frankland Prison, noticed his testicles increasing in size after he returned to prison from hospital - following treatment for a bladder infection. Peter Sutcliffe (pictured), dubbed the Yorkshire Ripper, murdered 13 women in the UK and attempted to murder seven others He said: 'It's massive. I hope it's not cancer. It's this big weird shape,' reports The Sun. A source also told the website that his testicle was so swollen it was 'keeping him awake at night'. To make matters worse, the killer is now also completely blind after a failed attempt to undo damage to his eyesight caused by diabetes. In March it was announced the 71-year-old killer has to have a buddy wheel him around Frankland Prison in County Durham, where he has been moaning about being unable to watch TV. Peter Sutcliffe, a former Bradford lorry driver (pictured), attacked and murdered women between 1976 and 1981 using knives, hammers and screwdrivers An injection to clear the blurriness in his right eye went horribly wrong, with the murderer telling a friend 'they have f***** up my eyesight'. He had already lost the sight in his left eye in 1997 when a fellow inmate attacked him Sutcliffe murdered 13 women in the UK and attempted to murder seven others. The former Bradford lorry driver attacked and murdered women between 1976 and 1981 using knives, hammers and screwdrivers. Most of his victims were women working as prostitutes. But last year he confessed on tape to a savage attack on a 14-year-old schoolgirl because he wrongly thought she was a prostitute. Sutcliffe admitted hitting Tracy Browne with a branch before throwing her over a wall. Despite having suffered two fractures to her skull Tracy managed to stagger to a farmworker's caravan and he raised the alarm. Sutcliffe confessed to being the Yorkshire Ripper in 1981 after police apprehended him with a prostitute. Radio broadcaster Ray Hadley's son will seek to have a cocaine possession charge dealt with under mental health provisions rather than the criminal law. Daniel Hadley, who until recently was a police officer, will apply to have the charge dismissed under Section 32 of the Mental Health (Forensic Provisions) Act. Hadley and the man accused of supplying him with the cocaine, Shaquillie Sione Vaisiqine Laf Moubayed, were both listed before Parramatta Local Court on Wednesday. Daniel Hadley (pictured with his estranged wife) was allegedly caught in possession of cocaine in Sydney's north-west in August Moubayed appeared in court while Hadley was excused and was instead represented by Madeline Walsh as agent for solicitor Warwick Anderson. Noting the number of reporters in his court, magistrate Brett Shields asked why a small drug possession matter had attracted so much media attention. Ms Walsh: 'I guess it's because who his father is.' Mr Shields: 'Who's his father?' Ms Walsh: 'Ray Hadley.' Mr Shields: 'Oh, the radio guy.' Ms Walsh said medical reports would be prepared ahead of the Section 32 application. Daniel Hadley is the son of radio broadcaster Ray Hadley (pictured) Shaquillie Sione Vaisiqine Laf Moubayed (centre) who allegedly supplied the drug to Daniel Hadley is pictured leaving Parramatta Local Court on Wednesday Hadley was off-duty when he was arrested at the Australian Hotel and Brewery at Rouse Hill in Sydney's north-west about 8pm on Friday, August 3. The 28-year-old, then a senior constable, was allegedly caught in possession of 0.66 grams of cocaine, with a street value of about $200. Shortly afterwards, between 8.05pm and 8.20pm, Moubayed was arrested in a nearby vehicle allegedly holding 7.51 grams of cocaine and a wad of $500 in cash. Hadley was originally accused of possessing 0.79 grams of cocaine but that quantity was reduced to the smaller amount on Wednesday. After his arrest Hadley was admitted to a mental health clinic. In recent months, he has been suffering from a dislocated knee and was awaiting a hernia operation. Police revealed last month he had resigned from the force. Daniel Hadley (pictured) was a senior constable based in western Sydney until recently Hadley, who split from his wife of two years Tahlee Anderson earlier this year, did not appear at court when his matter was first mentioned on September 12. The day after Hadley's arrest, his father tearfully admitted during a press conference to feeling 'inadequate' as a parent for failing to notice his son's mental health problems. 'When I was first told I was angry and perplexed,' the 2GB broadcaster said. 'I had no idea my son, a respected police officer, would be involved in such a matter. 'I brought Daniel back to my home and my anger turned to shock and sadness. 'My son revealed to me he's been having mental health issues,' he said. 'I'm not a medical professional and I won't guess the nature of his illness but I will tell you it's very serious and his family - me, his mum, sisters, aunts and uncles - are very concerned.' Daniel Hadley will seek to have a cocaine possession charge dealt with under mental health provisions. He's pictured with his estranged wife Tahlee Anderson, whom he split with earlier this year Hadley junior, who had been a policeman for six years and was previously a plumber, is the former auctioneer and taxi driver's eldest child from his first marriage. 'Daniel accepts responsibility for his behaviour but unfortunately is not in control of his mental health,' his father said. 'I now know how many parents feel when they think things are OK when they're not. 'This is going to be a long, slow process for my son, I love him dearly. 'I wish to God he'd come to me before this morning to tell me what he was battling,' he said. Daniel (left) is the eldest child from Ray Hadley's first marriage The top-rating announcer returned to the airwaves the following Monday to thank well-wishers for their support and to attack social media trolls. 'To the few haters and trolls on social media, you're being treated with the contempt you deserve,' he said. 'My employers gave me the chance to have a week off but I have never hidden from my own shortcomings - of which there are many.' 'I am here today to do what I do best, to get on with it and lead by example for my son and my family.' 'Daniel accepts responsibility for his behaviour but unfortunately is not in control of his mental health,' Ray Hadley (pictured) said recently Moubayed, from Seven Hills, is charged with supplying a prohibited drug, possessing a prohibited drug and having goods in custody reasonably suspected of being unlawfully obtained. The 22-year-old old, who has worked at Flemington Markets, was originally represented by a Legal Aid solicitor but now has retained private counsel. Hadley will be back in court on December 12. Robert John Fardon (pictured) will remain under constant supervision after the Queensland government won an appeal which deemed him 'too dangerous' to be released Notorious child rapist Robert John Fardon will remain under constant supervision after the Queensland state government won an appeal which deemed him 'too dangerous' to be released. Fardon was due to be freed Wednesday, but due to an urgent appeal against a Queensland Supreme Court judge's ruling, he will remain under constant monitoring until his the initial order is extended. Justice Phillip Morrison said he was satisfied Fardon could be considered dangerous enough without constant observation, and that ongoing management was needed. In August a judge ruled the 69-year-old's risk to the community had faded with age, but lawyers for Queensland Attorney-General Yvette D'Ath lodged an urgent appeal. Ms D'Ath welcomed the court's decision but declined to comment further as the matter was ongoing. Hetty Johnston, founder of the Bravehearts child protection organisation, said the court's decision was a win for children and families, but ultimately believed Fardon should still be behind bars. 'He shouldn't be out of jail ... unless you've got a police officer sitting on his lap 24/7 it's never going to be monitored sufficiently,' she said. The Queensland government passed laws last month to make sure anyone on an order like Fardon's would be watched for the rest of their lives even if a court ruled a stop to their surveillance. Fardon, who has an extensive history of sexual offending dating back to the 1960s including raping a 12-year-old girl at gunpoint, was jailed in 1989 for the rape of a woman. His full-time release date for that offence came in 2003, but he was kept locked up after being deemed too dangerous to be in the community. He was finally released on a supervision order in 2006, which he repeatedly breached before being thrown back in jail in 2008 on another charge of rape. Lawyers for the Queensland government won a Supreme Court appeal to have Fardon's (pictured) supervision order extended That conviction was later overturned on appeal. After a lengthy fight with the government, Fardon finally won his release on a new supervision order in 2014. He has not breached any conditions of that order while living in the community. His exact location has been kept secret, but he is believed to have been living with other sex offenders near a south-east Queensland jail. He has been constantly monitored and undergoes regular counselling as part of a Dangerous Prisoner (Sex Offender) Order. There are restrictions on where he can live and he is also subject to curfews. Anthony Aiello, 90, of San Jose, is charged with murdering his stepdaughter Karen Navarra, 67, according to the San Jose Police Department. He is being held without bail in the Santa Clara County Jail A 90-year-old man from California who was arrested and charged in connection with the killing of his 67-year-old stepdaughter, may have been caught out by a fitness tracker. Officers discovered Karen Navarra's battered body on September 13 while conducting a welfare check at her home in San Jose after she had not shown up to work the previous week, according to police. Now it has been revealed that Anthony Aiello's story of what happened on September 8 when she died, does not match up to data from her FitBit Alta HR. According to a police report her heart rate spiked at 3.20pm and by 3.28pm there was nothing. With surveillance video showing Aiello's car in front of her property between 3.12pm and 3.33pm, it puts him at the crime scene at the time of her apparent death. Navarra - whose 92-year-old mother is married to the suspect - was still wearing the watch on her left wrist when she was found with a deep laceration in her neck, head and a kitchen knife in her hand, reports ABC News. It seemed her suicide had been staged and her death was not declared a homicide until after an autopsy was performed where it was revealed Navarra died from blunt-force trauma, according to San Jose police Officer Gina Tepoorten. Data from her FitBit fitness tracker device showed her heart rate spiked and eight minutes later no pulse was registered. It happened when Aiello was seen to be at her home Aiello told law enforcement that his stepdaughter was alive when he dropped off pizza and biscotti that afternoon but a document states that could not have been true Aiello told law enforcement that his stepdaughter was alive when he dropped off pizza and biscotti that afternoon. He also claims she waved him off at the door presenting him with two flowers as he left and he later saw her drive by his home with someone in the passenger seat. However a document from law enforcement states that was not the case after studying surveillance footage. 'During the interview, Aiello was confronted about the information from Fitbit and the corresponding surveillance video indicating that his car was in the driveway,' the paper states. 'After explaining the abilities of the Fitbit to record time, physical movement and heart rate data.' Airello also blamed blood stains from two shirts located in his garage on constantly cutting himself. Aiello was arrested more than a week after San Jose police officers responded to a welfare check in the 1000 block of Terra Noble Way, pictured, and found Navarra unresponsive That reason too was not consistent with the evidence. 'He was told that the deposits of blood were not localized in one area and were more consistent with splatter,' it says in the document. 'Aiello indicated that he might have cut his hand and shaken it while he was wearing those shirts.' The suspect is being held at Santa Clara County Jail without bail. One week after his last appearance, he is due in court Thursday to proceed with a plea. Counsel will also be identified. 'The motive and circumstances surrounding the homicide are still under investigation,' Tepoorten previously said. It's not the first time a FitBit has been used as part of a murder investigation. Connecticut man Richard Dabate was accused of killing his wife in 2015 and the brand of fitness trackers was used as evidence. He pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial. Then in the murder of Mollie Tibbetts, investigators said they would look at the Iowa jogger's FitBit device but it was ultimately not used to make an arrest. Anyone with information about the killing can contact Detective Sgt. Mike Montonye or Detective Brian Meeker at 408-277-5283 or svcrimestoppers.org. A driver who attempted to jump the queue by forcing their way into a left-turning lane has been given a dose of instant karma. Footage captured on a dashcam shows an orange Subaru SUV attempting to move into the left lane on Melbourne's M3 Freeway. As the car tries to turn left, those stuck behind the driver begin blasting their horns in anger. Footage captured on a dashcam shows an orange Subaru attempting to move into the left lane on Melbourne's M3 Freeway The driver of the orange Subaru eventually manages to force the vehicle into the lane, but instantly receives a shock when the black Hyundai it merged in front of turns on its police sirens. The orange Subaru was pulled over straight away and a police officer was seen exiting the Hyundai to speak to the driver. Video footage of the incident was shared to the Dashcam Owners Australia Facebook page, and has been viewed more than 148,000 times. Some viewers defended the driver of the orange Subaru, saying they may have been in an unfamiliar area. 'So if you are driving along an unfamiliar road and get caught in the wrong lane it's easy to look like you are pushing in,' one person said. 'Hard to tell from the video how much of a queue he jumped. Also note that the cop car proceeded to stop in the queue and get out of his car - bad luck for everyone behind them!' By Abhishek Gupta (Economist) The Reserve Bank of India has signaled it's unlikely to give much clarity on bond purchases that could replace a short-term liquidity deficit with durable liquidity. The deficit is one reason why there's so much upward pressure on bond yields. In our view, the RBI's refusal to acknowledge the durable liquidity shortfall in the economy, along with another measure aimed at reducing banks' regulatory demand for government bonds, is likely to push sovereign bond yields higher. The RBI said in a statement on Thursday that banking system liquidity is in ample surplus. What the central bank is calling an ample surplus is, in fact, a temporary infusion of liquidity -- which itself is a measure of the liquidity deficit in the banking system. Bloomberg Economics' daily index of banking system liquidity shows a deficit of 734 billion rupees. This reflects the banking system's net borrowing from the RBI, with a short- term maturity of less than a month. The RBI said it has provided ample short-term liquidity. That is the case. But its claim that this infusion is resulting in an ample liquidity surplus is off the mark. The failure to acknowledge the durable liquidity deficit suggests the RBI is unlikely to give much clarity on how it might conduct bond purchases. In our view, it needs to step up bond purchases to meet growing durable liquidity needs of the economy. The RBI since April has conducted bond purchases of 400 billion rupees and announced another 100 billion rupees for Sept. 27. This infusion of durable liquidity by the RBI has been more than offset by an estimated 1,300 billion rupees of liquidity removal via FX sales. In addition, a regular infusion of durable liquidity needed to finance a growing economy hasn't been forthcoming from the RBI. The RBI's ambiguous position on liquidity conditions is likely to increase the risk premium on sovereign bond yields, in our view. India's Banking System Liquidity in Durable Deficit In another measure to address the liquidity shortage announced on Thursday, the RBI lowered its regulatory requirement for banks' holdings of sovereign bonds by roughly 2% of aggregate deposits, or 2.4 trillion rupees. To understand this regulatory change, we need to go through the technical details of the regulatory landscape of banks' demand for government bonds. Indian banks demand government bonds to meet two kinds of regulatory requirements: The statutory liquidity requirement, which is prescribed at 19.5% of net demand and time liabilities, or, roughly, aggregate deposits. The liquidity coverage ratio under Basel III norms, which is defined in terms of high-quality liquid assets. We estimated this to equal roughly 19-20% of aggregate deposits. Any statutory liquidity reserves held over 19.5% of aggregate deposits, needs to be marked to market. Banks mostly meet these liquidity requirements by holding government bonds. As part of existing regulations, banks were allowed an overlap equal to 13% of aggregate deposits to meet both these requirements. The latest change relaxes that to 15%, effectively reducing banks' regulatory demand for government bonds by 2% of aggregate deposits to 24% of aggregate deposits. The RBI undertook a similar relaxation from 11% to 13% in June, which as we had argued has pushed bond yields higher. In theory, this liquidity requirement relaxation should be seen as a positive for banks as it will help certain banks meet their liquidity coverage ratio, while others can sell excess government bonds in exchange for much-needed rupee liquidity. In practice though, this is unlikely to be the case. The reason: The prevailing environment of rising bond yields, in part due to RBI's hawkish policy bias, has hurt the appetite of market participants to take long positions on government bonds. In the absence of active demand for government bonds, the relaxed liquidity requirement ends up being held as excess statutory liquidity reserves by banks, and needs to be marked to market. A desire by banks to offload this excess, in the absence of forthcoming demand, simply results in higher yields. We estimate total SLR held by banks to equal 29.35% of aggregate deposits as of Aug. 31. Subtracting regulatory demand of 24%, that leaves an excess SLR holding of 5.35% with banks or roughly 6.4 trillion rupees. There is a simple solution that can ease the strain in the government bond market and at the same time meet the durable liquidity needs of the economy. The central bank could announce a calendar of open market purchases of government bonds. This would give certainty to market participants on an infusion of durable liquidity going ahead. It would also likely ignite positive sentiment in the bond market as over time, it would ease banks' excess holding of government bonds. But the central bank's refusal to even accept liquidity deficit conditions makes this a tall order. Abhishek Gupta covers India for Bloomberg Economics in Mumbai. He previously worked as an economist at DSP Merrill Lynch and as a research analyst at the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, India's premier macro/finance think tank. An undisclosed sum has been paid to release a stolen New Zealand treasure. Hot air balloon Iwi the Kiwi was stolen while it was in transit from the United Kingdom to Taiwan in July. Commercial pilot and hot air balloon enthusiast Rick Walczak, from Wairarapa on New Zealand's North Island, posted an appeal for the seven-storey inflatable bird on social media, where he continues to update Iwi's fans about its location. Scroll down for video Hot air balloon Iwi the Kiwi (pictured, left) was stolen while in transit from the United Kingdom to Taiwan in July Rick Walczak, from Wairarapa New Zealand's North Island, posted an appeal for the seven-storey inflatable bird on social media. Iwi has been missing for four months 'I have strong information that Iwi the Kiwi has been found in the USA we are excited and waiting on further information and proof,' he wrote on Facebook on Monday. 'We are currently in negotiations to get him back safely after four months.' Mr Walczak told Stuff he paid a large and undisclosed sum of money to secure Iwi's release. 'Payment has been made. For me, it was a lot of money. It was actually paid for by a fellow balloonist which we will be reimbursing,' Walczak said. Mr Walczak, who has 40 years of ballooning experience, was confused about why someone would steal the well-recognised balloon. 'You can't fly it at all, but he's got brand-new burners and I spent a lot of money on him recently,' he said. The commercial pilot and hot air balloon enthusiast said he paid a large and undisclosed sum of money to secure Iwi's release after it was found in the US Mr Walczak thanked friends and fans who helped located Iwi the Kiwi. 'Many Thanks from Team Iwi the Kiwi for all the fantastic support, And a special thanks to the people who have been involved in Finding him, I well keep you posted as information comes in,' he wrote on Facebook. A friend shared a frustrated post to social media in support of Mr Walczak and Iwi the Kiwi. 'Some d***head has stolen my mate, Rick Astral's beloved hot air balloon, 'Iwi',' the post said. A friend shared a frustrated post to social media in support of Mr Walczak and Iwi the Kiwi (pictured) 'I say d***head, because who in their right mind thinks they are going to inflate Iwi with nobody noticing this international super star. One would have to call this ''duh to the highest degree''.' Iwi the Kiwi was built in England and launched in the US in 2012. The inflatable bird, which has its own Facebook page, has flown throughout Asia, America and the UK and was a highlight at this year's Wairarapa Balloon Festival. A taxi driver accused of raping a sleeping stranger at a spa in Adelaide has been granted bail but is no longer allowed to drive his cab, a court has ruled. Adelaide Magistrate Simon Smart granted the man, 60, home detention bail, but barred him from the vicinity of the Adelaide Aquatic Centre and ordered him to stop working as a taxi driver. The man allegedly raped the woman, 27, at the swimming centre, but is yet to plead to his charges, which include engaging in sexual intercourse with a person without their consent, and indecent assault. Adelaide Magistrate Simon Smart granted the man, 60, home detention bail, but barred him from the vicinity of the swimming centre and banned his employment as a taxi driver The taxi driver cannot be named for legal reasons but his lawyers have hinted that he would be disputing the charges, Adelaide Now reports. The taxi driver drove to the swimming centre where he allegedly committed an 'opportunistic and brazen' attack on a woman who had fallen asleep, the Adelaide Magistrates Court previously heard. Prosecutors opposed the man's bail, saying that the alleged attack had been caught on CCTV and was 'quite clear and of good quality'. The man allegedly raped the woman, 27, at the swimming centre (pictured), but is yet to plead to his charges, which include engaging in sexual intercourse with a person without their consent, and indecent assault Prosecutors opposed the man's bail, saying that the alleged attack was caught on CCTV and was 'quite clear and of good quality' They also requested that the man not be allowed contact with the alleged victim, but the magistrate declined the bid on the basis that the attack was random and the two people involved were not known to each other. 'It's very strict bail... you will be electronically monitored so if you leave the premises without permission or attend the Adelaide Aquatic Centre you will breach your bail and be back in custody,' Mr Smart told the taxi driver. The man's wife and daughter declined to comment outside court. The devastated family of five people murdered a month ago remain in 'limbo' as the coroner works to release their bodies. Anthony Robert Harvey, 24, allegedly used multiple weapons including knives and a blunt instrument to butcher his family members in a Perth home on September 3 and 4. But the bodies of his wife Mara, 41, daughter Charlotte, three, and two-year-old twins Alice and Beatrix and their grandmother Beverley Quinn, 74, remain with the coroner. Pictured are Anthony Harvey and his wife Mara, 47, who was found dead alongside the couple's three daughters and their grandmother inside their home in Perth Pictured are grandmother Beverly Quinn (middle) with Charlotte (left), 3, two-year-old twin girls Alice and Beatrix When the children's grandmother Beverley Quinn (pictured), 74, arrived at the Coode Street home the next day, Mr Harvey allegedly murdered her too Mrs Harvey's sister Taryn Tottman and her husband Alan have endured an agonising wait to bury their loved ones. 'We've kinda got our fingers crossed. We've been sitting in limbo like everyone and everyone is asking us, texting us and we say "sorry we've got no word, but don't worry as soon as it happens we'll let everyone know as quick as we possibly can",' Mr Tottman said. 'At this stage we're just waiting on a phone call from (the coroner) either hopefully this Friday or by the latest Monday. 'Hopefully they'll give us a date so they can say 'yes go ahead' or 'no it's got to be changed'. We're up in the air just as much as everyone else at the moment.' Police will allege Mr Harvey first killed his wife and kids before murdering their grandmother when she arrived at the Coode Street home the next day. The three-bedroom house (pictured) in Bedford, Perth, where the family was allegedly murdered The couple lived together in the small brick house (pictured is a member of the public laying a flower outside), and had daughter Charlotte a year after Mr Harvey proposed in 2014 The lawn-mowing franchisee allegedly remained with the bodies for the next five days, before driving 1,400km to a police station in the remote Pilbara region. Western Australia Police Commissioner Chris Dawson said the adults were allegedly killed in the kitchen, while the children were attacked in other rooms of the house. Mr Tottman said the delay had compounded his family's grief, but they were determined to allow the coroner to do her job. 'There are five individuals that they're dealing with in there and they're just doing all the testing they possibly can to get as much evidence as they can for the police,' he said. 'We have our moments. We're up and down. Not thinking about it one minute and you're thinking about it the next. 'We've got three young kids to help take our minds of things for a while but it's the quiet times when you're alone ... you start thinking about things and you do get a bit emotional.' Forensic police during their investigations following horrific scenes in Perth Homicide detectives (pictured) remove evidence from the scene Days after the tragedy, Mrs Tottman paid tribute to her sister, who she said 'loved being a mum' and that her daughters were her world. 'She was so proud of each of them and was doing a great job of raising them. Her girls were her world,' she said at the time. Today, Mr Tottman paid tribute to his wife, who only last week got to finally view the bodies of her deceased family members. 'I just can't praise my wife enough. She's so strong. I mean it's her family that she's lost and you know she's just a very, very strong woman and she's handled it very well. She has her moments too,' he said. 'All she wants at this point in time is to hopefully get a date (for the funeral) and lay her poor family to rest and then move on with the grieving process.' Forensic police (C) and other officials remove a dead body from the crime site in Perth Detectives found the bodies of Mara Harvey (pictured), 47, her daughters Charlotte, Alice and Beatrix, and her mother Beverley Quinn, 74, in their home in Bedford, Perth last month A fundraiser organised to help pay for the funerals has currently reached $33,970 of a $35,000 target. A concert featuring Mr Tottman's band That's It has been planned for Friday night at the Charles Hotel in North Perth in the hope of meeting that target. Mr Tottman said he had been overwhelmed by the community support following the tragedy. 'It's such a humbling thing. The only thing that is really giving us any comfort is of everyone pulling together because there is no way we could ever afford a funeral that is going to be of this size,' he said. Australia has warned Beijing against making 'aggressive and dangerous' moves amid concerns over China's activities in the South China Sea. Defence Minister Christopher Pyne issued the blunt warning after a Chinese warship sailed within metres of an American destroyer this week. The move forced the USS Decatur to change course in an 'unsafe and unprofessional' encounter in the contested waters of the South China Sea. Mr Pyne said Australia 'would view any use of intimidation or aggressive tactics as destabilising and potentially dangerous', The Australian reported. Defence Minister Christoper Pyne (pictured) said Australia has consistently expressed concern over ongoing militarisation of the South China Sea Mr Pyne's comments come after a Chinese destroyer came aggressively close to US Navy ship USS Decatur (pictured here in 2016) 'Australia has consistently expressed concern over ongoing militarisation of the South China Sea and we continue to urge all claimants to refrain from unilateral actions that would increase tension in the region,' he said. Mr Pyne this week announced Australia was joining multilateral naval exercises in the area. The Bersama Lima exercises are partly being carried out in the South China Sea, and also include Britain, New Zealand, Singapore and Malaysia. Australia is also planning to join with French naval exercises in the contested waters. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday he was keen to see stability and prosperity continue in the region. 'We're cool heads in this situation. Times of uncertainty are exactly that and it's our job to work with everybody to reduce that uncertainty - that's what we're doing,' Mr Morrison told radio station 6PR. During the operation, a Chinese Luyang destroyer approached the USS Decatur in 'an unsafe and unprofessional maneuver in the vicinity of Gaven Reef (an overview is pictured) in the South China Sea', a US Pacific Fleet spokesman said The USS Decatur guided-missile destroyer was conducting what the military calls a 'freedom of navigation operation' on Sunday, when it passed within 12 nautical miles of the Gaven and Johnson reefs in the remote Spratly Islands. The 12-mile distance is commonly accepted as constituting the territorial waters of a landmass. During the operation, a Chinese Luyang destroyer approached the USS Decatur in 'an unsafe and unprofessional maneuver in the vicinity of Gaven Reef in the South China Sea,' US Pacific Fleet spokesman Commander Nate Christensen said. The Chinese ship then conducted a series of 'increasingly aggressive maneuvers, and warned the Decatur to depart the area,' he added. China expressed anger at the US operation, calling it a threat to its sovereignty. In a statement, the Chinese Ministry of Defence said that its ship had 'given a warning to leave' to the vessel after it entered the area 'without permission.' 'The US has repeatedly sent warships into the territorial waters near Chinese reefs and islands in the South China Sea,' it said. New York socialites are reportedly expecting a Bush wedding soon after receiving an invite to a hush hush 'celebration' for Barbara Bush and Craig Coyne for next Friday. Page Six reports the daughter of former President George W. Bush and wife Laura Bush could be walking down the aisle in the near future, after being given instructions for a Tribeca loft party in honor of the happy couple. 'Join us to toast Barbara and Craig,' the Paperless Post note read according to a source. Daughter of former President George W. Bush, Barbara Bush, could be getting married soon Barbara Bush (pictured with fraternal twin Jenna Bush left) is the subject of a special celebration hosted by her younger sister according to a report The party next Friday is also a 'toast' to actor Craig Coyne who appears in a deleted scene from I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell The company which also specializes in birthdays, birth announcements, and other special occasions, is known for their up-scale designs and collaborations with brands such as Kate Spade and Oscar De La Renta. The gathering is said to be hosted by Barbara's fraternal twin Jenna Bush Hager and her husband Henry Hager. According to Page Six, the dress code for the October 12 bash asks guests to go all out. 'Sequins highly encouraged to get your groove on,' the instructions say. The friend of the couple said another party for 'only about 20 people' will be held for just the close family and friends of Bush and Coyne on Saturday. The gathering is said to be hosted by Barbara's fraternal twin Jenna Bush Hager (center) and her husband Henry Hager (right) The friend of the couple said another party for 'only about 20 people' will be held for just the close family and friends of Bush and Coyne on Saturday The three Bushes Jenna, left, Laura, center, and Barbara, right, had a pampering session Sunday as they celebrated Reese Witherspoon's new book Jenna, left, Laura, center, and Barbara, right, could be celebrating nuptials soon too However a representative for the former White House residents denied the idea that the event will be an immediate wedding after the possible engagement party the day before. 'Unfortunately, this is not true,' Page Six's contact said. Barbara turns 37 years old November 25 and less than two years ago the Greenwich Village resident was believed to be dating filmmaker Andrew Jenks. The pair had been at a Rangers Game and Chris Gethard comedy show at the Lynn Redgrave Theater in December 2016. She was reportedly seeing Ping-Pong club SPiN business partner, Franck Raharinosy prior to that and the venue was often the location of events she hosted. Barbara and Jenna are the grandchildren of late former First Lady Barbara Bush (left) and former President George H. Bush (right). They are pictured in 2005 Barbara spoke at the funeral of the former First Lady she was named after in April 2018 Barbara pictured with her mother Laura, left, sister Jenna, center left and dad George W. Bush (center) in April Barbara was pictured just last Thursday on her twin's Instagram account as they enjoyed some pampering with their former First Lady mother, Laura, clutching a copy of Reese Witherspoon's new book. Donning robes with curlers in their hair, it could be what the women look like before Barbara says 'I Do' if the rumors are true. Barbara's suspected engagement and wedding would come just months after her grandmother who she was named after and who was the First Lady of the United States from 1989 to 1993 passed away aged 92. After appearing in a 2011 campaign to legalize same-sex marriage in New York, Barbara and her one-minute-younger sister are famously not members of the Republican Party like much of their family. The Yale school alumni started a career in fashion but went on to start Global Health Corps in 2009 which mobilizes people to work for high-impact organisations for a year. The paid positions ultimately drive work toward health equity. Meanwhile, Coyne is an actor has appeared in Jarhead (2005), Lonelygirl15 (2006) and Ask Play (2017). The Vanderbuilt University alumni considers himself the 'world's biggest Chick-Fil-A fan' according to a website for one of his films. Barbara was reportedly seeing Ping-Pong club SPiN business partner, Franck Raharinosy, (pictured May 2016) and the venue was often the location of events she hosted An escalating war between rival bikie gangs has resulted in 'shootings, drive-by shootings and bashings', allegedly putting the public at risk, a court has been told. Police in Western Australia are advised to exercise 'extreme caution' when approaching Rebels and Comanchero members, who have placed 'bash-on-sight orders' on each other, a police prosecutor told Perth Magistrates Court on Tuesday. The revelation comes after Comanchero bikie Nathan Norman Greenway appeared in court facing charges over two separate alleged offences. Comanchero member Nathan Norman Greenway (pictured) asked to be freed on bail when he appeared in a Perth court on Tuesday but was unable to raise the surety Greenway allegedly threatened a Northbridge bar manager last week when he was asked to pay for a television he reportedly damaged, The West Australian reported. He allegedly pulled out a 'handgun-style revolver' and threatened staff at the Galaxy Lounge karaoke bar in Perth before he and another bikie fled in a taxi, police allege. The police prosecutor told the court that the gun allegedly used has not been found. Greenway was arrested on Monday after he allegedly returned to the Galaxy Lounge and was involved in a brawl outside the bar. The 28-year-old has also been charged with fighting in public following a violent brawl between Comanchero and Rebels bikies outside the Crown Casino in Perth last month. The court was told staff were too frightened to intervene in the violent brawl, during which Greenway was punched to the ground. Greenway begged to be freed on bail, claiming the last time he was in 'real trouble' was four years ago and he 'did two years for that'. Police have been warned about an escalating feud between the Comanchero and Rebels bikies in Western Australia (stock image) 'I would just like to go home,' he said. The magistrate granted bail on the strict conditions that he abide by a night curfew, have no contact with outlaw motorcycle gangs, did not possess a firearm and lived with his grandmother. Greenway remained in custody on Tuesday night after the $5000 surety was unable to be raised. Alarming footage has revealed how dogs being farmed in South Korea are forced to eat garbage and meat infested with flies before they are slaughtered. An Australian film crew has captured graphic footage of a farm at Gimpo, west of Seoul, where 390 dogs were crammed into crowded cages next to dead pooches. SBS's Dateline program revealed the horror of South Korea's controversial dog meat industry, as the government considers banning it altogether. Scroll down for video Dog farms in South Korea are so horrible canines are forced to eat garbage and meat infested with flies before they are slaughtered A struggling farmer, who asked for his identity to be concealed, said he was so poor he resorted to feeding his dogs garbage. 'The dogs need feeding but I don't have enough money to put petrol in my car,' he told SBS. His farm in the Gimpo suburb of Songma-ri was so crowded dogs were kept in cells 10 cages deep and fed rancid, rotting meat. Some of his dogs also appeared to be stolen pets wearing their original collars. SBS filmed the farms during the height of summer when spicy dog meat soup is traditionally served during the final week of the BokNal festival. They also visited the farm with animal rights activist Jinu Jeong as he negotiated to buy the dogs from the farmer so he could re-home them. An Australian film crew has captured graphic footage of a farm at Gimpo, west of Seoul, where 390 dogs were crammed into crowded cages next to dead canines Farms like the one SBS visited face being closed as the South Korean government imposes stricter animal welfare rules. Animal rights activists have waged a campaign against the cruel treatment of dogs in the farms, by ambushing the slaughterhouses and taking video footage of the awful conditions. In one scene, a dog farm manager used a stick to fight off the activists as they recorded scenes showing dogs that had just been slaughtered. A struggling farmer, who asked for his identity to be concealed, said he was so poor he resorted to feeding his dogs garbage In June, a Korean court fined a dog farmer at Bucheon, west of Seoul, three million won, or $A3,735, after animal rights group Care accused him of 'killing animals without proper reasons' and violating building and hygiene regulations. He was convicted by the Bucheon City court, which ruled that meat consumption was not a legal reason to kill dogs. This ruling is a step towards possible new laws banning dog meat harvesting altogether. Dog meat consumption has declined in South Korea with the practice now something of a taboo among younger generations. Authorities invoked hygiene regulations or animal protection laws that ban cruel slaughter methods to crack down on dog farms and restaurants ahead of international events such as the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics earlier this year. A young man charged with the rape and murder of Eurydice Dixon could face additional charges when more evidence becomes available. The body of the 22-year-old comedian was found on the Princes Park field at Carlton North by a passer-by about 3am on June 13. She was killed on her way home from performing a comedy gig at Melbourne's Highlander Bar the night before. Jaymes Todd, of Broadmeadows in the city's north-west, subsequently handed himself in to police. A young man charged with the rape and murder of 22-year-old Melbourne comedian Eurydice Dixon (pictured) could face additional charges when more evidence becomes available Magistrate Suzanne Cameron said it had been nearly 16 weeks since Ms Dixon's death, and the pathologist's delay in DNA results was 'unsatisfactory' The 19-year-old remained still and quiet when he appeared via video link during a contest mention hearing at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Wednesday. Prosecutor Christina Teague sought an adjournment due to delays in the Crown receiving a pathologist's report and a statement from a biologist about DNA evidence. Ms Teague said because 'the extent of the assault' was unknown, additional charges could potentially be laid. She said the pathologist was 'overworked and apologetic', but had staffing issues and might not be able to supply a report until next year. Ms Teague added the DNA evidence was expected by the end of October. But magistrate Suzanne Cameron said it had been nearly 16 weeks since Ms Dixon's death, and the material should be expedited. Jaymes Todd (pictured), of Broadmeadows, eventually handed himself in to police for her rape and murder She was killed on her way home from performing a comedy gig at Melbourne's Highlander Bar (pictured) the night before She described the delay as 'unsatisfactory'. 'The period of adjournment will not be lengthy,' she said. Ms Cameron also said she was 'disappointed' the Legal Aid defence team had not made 'some decisions about the future course of the matter' with instructions from Mr Todd. The court was told the matter was likely to proceed to a committal hearing. Ms Cameron directed both the pathologist's report and the biologist's DNA statement should be returned to the court by October 12. During his previous appearance in court Mr Todd's lawyer said it was his first time in custody and stressed his vulnerability in that environment due to his youth and diagnosis of autism. Mr Todd is due to return to court via video link on October 22. A Pakistani traveller has been allegedly caught with pornography involving children and animals on his phone at an airport. The 32-year-old man was stopped at Perth International Airport on Monday and his bags were searched after he arrived on a flight from Dubai. Border Force officers checked his phone and allegedly found child pornography and bestiality images on it. A Pakistani traveller (pictured) has been allegedly caught with pornography involving children and animals on his phone at an airport The 32-year-old man was stopped at Perth International Airport on Monday and his bags were searched after he arrived on a flight from Dubai 'During the examination of his phone officers allegedly found objectionable material in the form of a number of videos depicting sexual activity involving children and animals,' a Border Force spokesperson said in a statement. The man appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Monday and is now in custody while awaiting another court appearance on October 26. If convicted, he faces a maximum fine of $525,000 and 10 years imprisonment. Australian Border Force Western Australia regional commander Rod O'Donnell warned travellers of the penalties for similar behaviour. 'Visitors should be aware that possession of child exploitation material is viewed very seriously under Australian law,' he said. 'Tackling child exploitation is an operational priority for the ABF as part of its role protecting the border from individuals who may pose a threat to the community.' A woman's body found dumped at a Sydney playground had been stripped half-naked and had a purple dog collar tied around her neck. A council worker made the grisly discovery near children's play equipment at Buffalo Creek Reserve in Hunter's Hill, on the city's lower north shore, at 7.30am Wednesday. The body had been partially concealed under a dark-coloured cloth, but beneath the covering the woman was semi-naked with a studded collar around her neck. She also had massive injuries to her head. Drag marks up to 30 metres in length were reportedly seen near the woman's body, which had been dumped just metres from swings and a slide. Police say the death is 'definitely suspicious' and detectives have been scouring the scene for evidence throughout the day. Scroll down for video Forensic police photograph the body of a woman which was discovered by a council worker in the early hours of Wednesday morning The body was discovered at Buffalo Creek Reserve (pictured) in Hunters Hill on Sydney's lower north shore on Wednesday morning It's believed the council worker was driving this orange ride-on lawn mower when they spotted the body Shocked neighbours told Daily Mail Australia the incident was out of character for the quiet area, in the exclusive Sydney suburb. 'It's devastating because it's such a quiet little area,' the local said. 'Every weekend that park is packed full of kids playing and families having barbecues, it's a lovely spot normally. 'A council worker comes and opens the gates at sunrise and closes them at sunset, and I believe he found the body.' An orange ride-on lawn mower remains parked just metres from where the body lies. It's believed the vehicle belongs to the horrified council worker who discovered the corpse and called police. Homicide detectives were seen in deep discussion as officers scoured the area for evidence and forensic police photographed the body. Emergency services were called to the Pittwater Road park at about 7.30am on Wednesday. A crime scene has been established, and an investigation into how the woman died is underway. One man who stopped there on his way to visit family said the secluded park had long needed cameras and lighting. He said his parents had once encountered a "terrified" girl walking there alone late at night, and had given her a lift to the safety of nearby shops. The park is popular with local families in the area and contains a newly renovated playground The park was roped off with crime scene tape and closed to the public while the police investigation was carried out A council worker arrives to pick up the belongings of the person who found the woman's body A NSW Police spokesman said they were unable to confirm if the body - which was clothed when it was discovered - was a man or a woman. The spokesman said the body was found in the park near the main road, and they are yet to confirm a cause of death. 'We are already canvassing the area, we will widen the search once the crime scene investigation has been completed.' he said. The park is popular with local families in the area and it features a newly-renovated playground. The park was roped off with crime scene tape and closed to the public while the police investigation is carried out. Drag marks up to 30 metres long were seen near the body and the death is being treated as suspicious by police The news highlights from Theresa Mays speech this morning at the Conservative Partys 2018 conference may be that she branded Labour the Jeremy Corbyn Party while committing her party to ending austerity, increasing spending on the NHS (which, she said, embodies our principles as Conservatives more profoundly than any other institution), and suspending the national gasoline tax for the ninth year a move that saved British taxpayers 9 billion a year. But theres a section noteworthy for its rarity in public discourse: a well-versed description of the social value of business, entrepreneurship, and the rewards of work. Her encomium to enterprise comes as she and her fellow Tories have been attacked as anti-business for their willingness to leave the EU with no deal, if need be. Her words show she deeply values the importance of taking or creating a career. Offering someone a job creating opportunity for other people is one of the most socially-responsible things you can do, May said this morning. It is an act of public service as noble as any other. She recounted a conversation she had with a young woman during her recent visit to South Africa: She told me her ambition was to start a business, so she could create jobs in her local community. The people in this hall who have started their own businesses will know how thrilling it is to take a risk and start something new. But offering someone a job creating opportunity for other people is one of the most socially-responsible things you can do. It is an act of public service as noble as any other. To everyone who has done it we are all in your debt. So, we in this party, we in this hall, we say thank you. In a section to combat the partys newfound anti-corporate image (in which the vicars daughter made a double entendre alluding to a curse word), May promised to back business: Back them to create jobs and build prosperity. Back them to drive innovation and improve lives. Back them with the lowest Corporation Tax in the G20. Britain, under my Conservative government, is open for business. We support free markets because we know their strengths. But we also know their limits. The defining event for a new generation of voters was not the fall of the Berlin Wall, but the collapse of the banks. She then connected rising employment, brought about by a moderately more favorable business climate, to human flourishing, even the importance of having a child grow up in a house in which someone works: Eight years on, how have we done? Our economy is growing. The deficit down by four-fifths. Unemployment at its lowest since the 1970s. Youth unemployment at a record low. Households where nobody works down by almost a million. We should not forget whats behind those numbers. The parent who swaps a benefit check for a regular wage. The youngster leaving school and never having to sign on. The children growing up with an example of hard work. Hope and dignity for millions of people in our country. In a year full of missteps, a tenure that sometimes has earned its reputation for meddling in free enterprise, and a speech containing other concerning elements, this long section dedicated to the importance of work and entrepreneurial action is welcome. This understanding is all-too rare among politicians and pastors children of any background. (Photo credit: Editorial Use / Shutterstock.) Loading the player... Facebook security breach! Govt asks tech giant to quantify impact on Indian users Former IL&FS independent directors write to Uday Kotak, extend support in turnaround efforts Russia, India to sign deal on S-400 air defence systems this week: Kremlin Indians likely to benefit as UK unveils post-Brexit immigration plans Govt mulls 100% FDI in insurance broking Salaries and perks of MPs cost exchequer Rs 1,997 crore in 4 years The Central government has asked Facebook to reveal the extent to which the recent hacking might have affected its Indian users. Though the Ministry of Electronics and IT has not sent any legal notice so far, it has raised concerns over one of the biggest hacking attacks on Facebook computer network last week on Friday, which breached over 50 million Facebook accounts, and might have affected accounts of third-party apps linked to Facebook.The US-based tech giant is still assessing the actual impact of the data breach and has reportedly sought two-day time from the Indian government to apprise it on the impact.A day after the government superseded IL&FS board, former independent directors of the crisis-ridden group has written to new Chairman Uday Kotak extending their "complete support" in the revival of the entity. Five former independent directors, including former Chairman S B Mathur, in a letter, have also mentioned about IL&FS being unable to raise additional equity despite several attempts and the "asset-liability" mismatch that continued to aggravate.Russian President Vladimir Putin will oversee the signing of a USD 5 billion deal this week to supply Delhi with S-400 air defence systems, a top Kremlin aide said on Tuesday ahead of Putin's trip to India.British Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday unveiled a major post-Brexit overhaul of the UK's immigration system, which she said is aimed at a level playing field for nationals from all countries by ending "freedom of movement once and for all" for European Union (EU) citizens. Indians may benefit from the new rules, which will focus on highly-skilled migration as opposed to low-skilled workers, but an added obligation on companies being required to sponsor families of such high-skilled professionals may prove a hurdle in the long term.Mumbai's iconic promenade at Marine Drive now has a plush toilet to go with its surrounding art deco architecture. The toilet, made at an estimated cost of Rs 90 lakh, has earned the reputation of being the city's most expensive toilet. It was opened for public use on Tuesday. Constructed under a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative by the Jindal Group and Samatech, the swanky toilet has been handed over to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) for maintenance. The civic body will keep the facility free for use for the next two months after which it may levy a fee.The government is mulling permitting 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in insurance broking to give a boost to the sector, sources said.The FDI policy, at present, allows 49 per cent foreign investment in the insurance sector that encompasses insurance broking, insurance companies, third party administrators, surveyors and loss assessors as defined by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP).The Punjab National Bank (PNB) is expected to turn profitable this fiscal and is poised for growth, its Managing Director Sunil Mehta said asserting that the ?14,000 crore Nirav Modi scam is a bygone. Mr. Mehta said he hopes PNB will be back in the black during 2018-19 due to various efforts taken by the bank after the fraud came to light in January this yearThe government has spent Rs 1,997 crore towards salaries and perks of parliamentarians in the past four financial years, according to response to an RTI query. While Rs 71.29 lakh was spent on an average for a member of Lok Sabha, Rs 44.33 lakh was spent on a Rajya Sabha member, the Lok Sabha secretariat said in response to the RTI application, filed by activist Chandra Shekhar Gaud. One in four young people don't think it's serious if a man, who's normally gentle, sometimes slaps his girlfriend when he's drunk and they're arguing, statistics have revealed. The revelation comes from phase two of the Australian government's $30million crackdown on domestic violence, the 'Stop it at the Start' campaign, which is set to launch on Sunday. The campaign, which is jointly funded by Australian, state and territory governments, urges community role models to talk to young people about respect. One in four young people don't think it's serious if a man, who's normally gentle, sometimes slaps his girlfriend when he's drunk and they're arguing, statistics have revealed (stock image) The revelation comes from phase two of the Australian government's $30million crackdown on domestic violence, the Stop it at the Start campaign, which is set to launch on Sunday (stock image) Phase two was launched at the COAG National Summit on Reducing Violence Against Women and Their Children in Adelaide on Wednesday. Minister for Women the Hon Kelly O'Dwyer MP said the campaign is about changing the way we think. 'The statistics on this issue are shocking one in six women have experienced physical or sexual violence by a current or former partner since the age of 15. This figure increases to nearly one in four women when violence by boyfriends, girlfriends and dates is included,' Minister O'Dwyer said. 'It's also concerning that one in four young people are prepared to excuse violence from a partner. 'This is a cycle of violence that starts with disrespect. Throwaway comments like 'it's just boys being boys' or 'he did it because he likes you' can make young people think disrespect is a normal part of growing up. We need to ask ourselves is that what we meant?' Minister for Women the Hon Kelly O'Dwyer MP (pictured) said the campaign is about changing the way we think Statistics for the campaign have been drawn from the 2015 report The Line campaign, Australian Bureau of Statistics figures and other research. The combined research revealed that violence isn't always physical as one in four Australian women have experienced emotional abuse from a current or former partner. A VicHealth survey, Young Australians' attitudes towards violence against women, found that 26 per cent of almost 2000 participants aged between 16 and 24 would be prepared to excuse their partner's violence. Minister O'Dwyer said the campaign was about making small steps together. 'While not all disrespect ends with violence, the cycle of violence certainly starts with disrespect. It's good to remember that our behaviour is a powerful influence on others, particularly the young,' she said. A confessed terrorist laughed with his co-accused in prison, telling them maybe Allah had bigger plans for them after their alleged Christmas Day plot to attack the Melbourne CBD was foiled. Ibrahim Abbas was recorded in custody days after the alleged 2016 plot was stopped, discussing it with his brother Hamza Abbas, 23, cousin Abdullah Chaarani, 27, and Ahmed Mohamed, 25. Ibrahim Abbas has pleaded guilty to conspiring to prepare an attack, but the other three men are on trial in the Supreme Court and deny being co-conspirators. Ibrahim Abbas was recorded in custody days after the alleged 2016 plot was stopped, discussing it with his brother Hamza Abbas (pictured), 23, cousin Abdullah Chaarani, 27, and Ahmed Mohamed, 25 Mr Abbas told police he was aware of instructional bomb making videos, and Mohamed (pictured) had directed him to one about a month earlier. On December 27 2016, police recorded Ibrahim Abbas explaining to the trio what he had told police five days earlier. 'Maybe Allah's planning something bigger. Like, bro, psychological warfare,' he said. 'That was the whole point of Osama Bin Laden, to get them psychologically.' Abbas also said the interview was the perfect time to bring up the 'biggest story'. 'Haha I have pledged my allegiance to ISIS. I do want to destroy your nation,' he said, before the group burst into laughter. Hamza Abbas, 23, is standing trial alongside Ahmed Mohamed, 25, and Abdullah Chaarani (pictured), 27 In the recording, Chaarani refers to bombs as 'tick tocks' and Abbas tells him he told police he didn't know how to make them. Abbas admits to the men he told police he asked the trio to buy bomb-making ingredients. But they never made a bomb. Mohamed responded: 'Far. That the biggest lie, but. Cos on my phone there's screenshots'. 'Why do you have screenshots for?' Abbas asked. 'Cos I'm an idiot, simple,' Mohamed replied. That conversation was initially believed to be between Abbas and Chaarani, but Abbas told the court on Wednesday it was Mohamed. The trial is continuing. Donald Trump took to Twitter shortly after his Mississippi rally late Tuesday to talk up the national wage growth as well as the productivity of his administration on school safety. The president wrote in a tweet that quoted a Fox Business article: 'National wage growth is at the highest its been in nearly 17 months - and, according to a new study released by Glassdoor, its not expected to slow down anytime soon....' The Glassdoor Local Pay Report said the median base pay for full-time employees 'increased to $52,664 per year in September, a 2.6 percent increase over last year.' President Donald Trump reacts to supporters as he leaves a rally Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Mississippi. Trump took to Twitter after the rally to talk up his administration The president wrote in a tweet that quoted a Fox Business article: 'National wage growth is at the highest its been in nearly 17 months' Trump also applauded his administration for providing 'historic levels of funding to improve school safety' The report said: 'Thats up from last months revised pay growth of 2.5 percent and marks the fastest pay growth since April 2017 - a strong indicator of a healthy labor market driving higher wages to attract an increasingly scarce supply of workers.' Trump went on to say that his administration on Tuesday 'provided HISTORIC levels of funding to improve school safety through STOP School Violence grants - a top priority for @sandyhook.' He added: 'I am committed to keeping our children SAFE in their schools!' Earlier, the president appeared at his midterm campaign rally which took place in the Landers Center Arena in Southaven, Mississippi. The Glassdoor Local Pay Report said the median base pay for full-time employees 'increased to $52,664 per year in September, a 2.6 percent increase over last year' Trump gestures as he speaks at a rally Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Mississippi He spoke at the rally about 'evil' people who have bashed Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh - who he said is 'like a perfect person'. He also mocked Kavanaugh's accuser, Christine Ford. 'I had one beer!' Trump said to the noisy crowd as he made fun of Ford's testimony in which she could barely remember the date or location of the alleged attack - but was sure she had only consumed one beer. 'Guilty until proven innocent, that's very dangerous for our country,' Trump said. During last week's testimony, Ford claimed Kavanaugh attempted to hold her down and remove her clothes in 1982, when they were both in high school. Kavanaugh has strongly denied the allegation. The president was speaking at the 'Make America Great Again' rally in support of Mississippi's two incumbent Republican senators, Cindy Hyde-Smith and Roger Wicker. The fully clothed body of a man with chained legs has been found floating in a harbor in Queens in what may be a case of suicide. The NYPD responded to the Worlds Fair Marina in Willets Point around 9.15am Tuesday identified the body as that of Michael Panico, 53, a resident of nearby Jackson Heights. A bystander spotted the body floating face down near the shore line at the harbor, which is next to the New York Mets' Citi Field. The NYPD Harbor Unit responds to a body found floating off the World's Fair Marina on Tuesday The body had chains wrapped around the legs and with rocks tied on, an NYPD source said. Panico was pronounced dead at the scene. Police investigators believe it may have been a suicide, sources told the New York Post. The medical examiner will make a final determination of the cause and manner of death. An investigation is ongoing. An aerial view is seen of the shore line in Queens near where the body was found For confidential support call the National Suicide Prevention Line: 1-800-273-8255 Residents living near a popular Sydney beach have been left fuming after the council sprayed the hotspot with a toxic weed killer. Bondi Beach is expected to be packed with families making the most of the school holidays this week, but residents have raised concerns about their safety after the Waverley Council sprayed a herbicide known as Roundup on Tuesday,Yahoo reported. The chemical was sprayed near North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club - a popular spot for sunbathing. A sign (pictured) erected near Bondi Beach warned beachgoers that the council sprayed a herbicide known as Roundup right at the start of the school holidays A sign was erected nearby, warning visitors that the herbicide 'may cause sensitisation if [it] comes into contact with skin'. Sydney woman Anna Dempsey posted a warning online about the herbicide. 'It should not be used anywhere, much less during school holidays beside the ocean causing harm to the environment and anyone close by,' she said. Other residents suggested that the space be fenced off as a precaution. In August, an American man won a US$289million settlement after a jury found Roundup had played a large role in his cancer diagnosis. Bondi Beach (pictured) is expected to be crawling with families making the most of the school holidays this week Dewayne Johnson, who worked as a groundskeeper for a US school, took agrochemical giant Monsanto to trial and won. Mr Johnson was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma - a cancer that starts in the white bloods cells - in August 2014. It has since spread. Johnson worked as a groundskeeper from 2012 through mid-2015, mixing and spraying hundreds of gallons of Roundup to keep grass and weeds under control. The main ingredient in Roundup is a chemical compound called glyphosate. Glyphosate is marketed either as a salt or an amber-colored liquid with no smell. Glyphosate-based products are sold in more than 160 countries. In March 2015, the World Health Organization found that that the herbicide is 'probably carcinogenic to humans'. A Waverley Council spokeswoman said diluted glyphosate was applied once by a ChemCert qualified staff member following the recommended label guidelines, during dry and low wind conditions. The area was clearly signed in accordance with Councils Pesticide Use and Notification Plan, she said. 'Council avoids the use of pesticides where possible and where necessary minimises their use. Council is currently looking at ways to reduce and eliminate the use of pesticides in the Waverley area.' Jeremy, you're fired: The Apprentice star, who quit the Labour Party in 2015 over its 'negative' approach to business, has repeatedly attacked Mr Corbyn. He is pictured on Good Morning Britain yesterday Lord Sugar has vowed to quit Britain if Jeremy Corbyn becomes Prime Minister - taking his huge tax bills with him. The Apprentice star, who quit the Labour Party in 2015 over its 'negative' approach to business, has repeatedly attacked Mr Corbyn for his economic policies and lax approach to the anti-Semitism crisis. 'Corbyn, if he gets in I'm out. That's for sure,' the 71-year-old business mogul vowed in a newspaper interview. 'If hes in, Im out. I wont be writing 50million tax cheques any more,' he told The Sun. 'Im gone. I dont know where but I wont be here.' Lord Sugar was a Labour member for 18 years and became one of the party's biggest donors. He is now an independent peer in the House of Lords, where he continues to be outspoken on Mr Corbyn, especially about his approach to the anti-Semitism crisis. In March, he tweeted a mock-up of the Labour leader in a car alongside Adolph Hitler. He said the post was a 'joke' before later deleting it. A month later, he called Mr Corbyn 'absolutely dangerous' amid criticism of his attendance at an event organised by a far-left group that once called for Israel's destruction. And in September, he doubled down his criticism of Mr Corbyn's conduct, saying he doesn't believe Mr Corbyn has the desire to 'grab Labour by the scruff of the neck' over the scandal. Lord Sugar backed Remain in the referendum, having warned about the economic impacts of Brexit. But he sympathises with Theresa May over the Brexit negotiations, saying: 'She's got a tough job. I think she's doing as best she can under the circumstances.' The business mogul has been particularly critical of Mr Corbyn's approach to the anti-Semitism crisis. The Labour leader is pictured at the party conference on September 26 The business mogul will appear at 9pm tonight on BBC1 for the new series of The Apprentice. It was embroiled in controversy this week after it emerged contestant Daniel Elahi was allegedly caught with cannabis worth about 5,000 he was hoping to sell to students. The 28-year-old has hidden the fact that he admitted intent to supply cannabis after police caught him with his stash. Friends of Elahi - who stopped using his real first name, Gareth, after a trial concerning the offence, told The Sun that they couldn't believe he got through checks carried out for the hit BBC show. Officer Sherry Hall, 43, was convicted of 11 criminal charges, including making false statements, violating her oath and tampering with evidence A Georgia police officer who falsely claimed that she had been shot at by a black man in 2016 has been handed 15 years in prison for a number of charges connected to the incident. Officer Sherry Hall, 43, was convicted of 11 criminal charges, including making false statements, violating her oath and tampering with evidence. In addition to the 15 years that the former Jackson officer was given, Superior Court Judge Thomas Wilson also gave her 23 years of probation. On September 13rd, 2016, Hall claimed that a 6ft, 230lbs African American man wearing a green shirt and black jogging pants had shot at her. A bullet was found in her protective vest. The alleged shooting came right after a number of shootings of law enforcement personnel said to have been in retaliation to the numerous police killings of black folk. But Hall's own recollection of the night led to her eventual downfall after a jury voted for her conviction. 'She did a great job for us, up until that night,' Jackson Police Chief James Morgan said of the woman who had only been an officer with the department for three months, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. 'So we didn't see this coming. But this was not a mistake. It was a conscious decision and a choreographed act.' 'She did a great job for us, up until that night,' Jackson Police Chief James Morgan said of the woman who claimed that she had been shot by a black man Following Hall's initial report, the Jackson police department went on a massive manhunt in hopes of finding a suspect. A man who resembled Hall's description was brought in for questioning but eventually released. 'We didn't need an uprising,' Morgan added. 'We didn't want any racial tensions. This put a dim view on our department. But we rebounded. It defused pretty quickly.' Hall is currently serving time in the Arrendale State Prison but lawyer, Jordan Van Matre, is working to get a new trial for his client. The officer passed up the opportunity to take a plea deal that would have had her serve just five years for her crimes. Hall is currently serving time in the Arrendale State Prison but lawyer, Jordan Van Matre, is working to get a new trial for his client 'She's scared to death of prison,' the woman's brother, Steve Weaver, said. 'She wanted to take a plea, but not one that included prison time. She thought spending 90 days in jail before posting bond was enough.' Hall's family found it surprising that the officer was given such a harsh punishment for her part in endangering the community she was supposed to protect. 'She definitely didn't get treated fairly,' her brother asserted. 'As her brother, obviously it's hard for me to admit she's guilty. But if she is guilty, the sentence she received was especially harsh. We hope to seek a sentence reduction in the near future. I mean, this was a nonviolent crime.' Hall had claimed that when she pulled into Camilla Court she put her car spotlight on the man. Realizing she was shout, she claimed to have fired two rounds where the gunfire had allegedly come from. The officer passed up the opportunity to take a plea deal that would have had her serve just five years for her crimes During her trial, Assistant District Attorney James Moss showed that Hall's squad car video system picked up audio from the night. The audio revealed that only two shots were fired and not three. The two casings found near the car matched Hall's gun from the night. However, the third casing that was found in the woods matched a firearm that the officer kept in her nightstand. Moss noted that this gun was a department-issued handgun. Moss also stated that Hall gave inconsistent descriptions of the shooter. He continued: 'It was dumbfounding that she went to trial. She never took responsibility. She invented out of whole cloth a black man who shot her, and if law enforcement hadn't done their jobs right, we could have had a gentleman wrongly charged with a crime.' Moss further stated that he had been unable to find a motive for Hall's actions. It was speculated that she was trying to get more respect from her department but also that she sought disability payments for post-traumatic stress disorder. 'I couldn't prove what the motive was,' Moss stated. 'But I could prove that what she said was a big bucket full of malarkey.' The Assistant DA said that it was 'certainly' a 'factor' that the current climate with police shootings helped aid in the harsh sentencing. Hall's attorney during the trial, Kimberly Berry, argued that the woman suffered from emotional distress when the incident took place. 'The day after, she checked herself into a facility for mental health treatment,' Berry said. 'She was basically having a nervous breakdown.' 'I think Sherry, to this day, doesn't know exactly what happened.' Business owners have revealed the devastating impact Sydney's $2.1billion light rail fiasco has had on their lives. The project, linking the city's CBD with several south-eastern suburbs, was meant to be finished in March next year but the completion date has blown out by 12 months. The effect the light rail construction has had on businesses along the route was laid bare at a state parliamentary inquiry on Wednesday. Amelia Birch, who closed her Book Kitchen cafe in Surry Hills last year after eight years, said 100 business owners were told to 'go to Bali for six months during construction', The Daily Telegraph reported. Business owners have told a parliamentary inquiry of the devastating effect Sydney's CBD and South-East Light Rail project has had on their lives (pictured, construction of the project along George Street in the CBD) The comment reportedly came from CBD Light Rail Project Director Jeff Goodling. 'I think all of our jaws dropped at that point firstly due to the severe oversight of what a stupid comment like that means to a group of business owners,' Ms Birch said. She said the project had taken a financial, physical and emotional toll and she had also separated from her husband last year. He had also started to suffer depression, Ms Birch said. 'I've curled up in the foetal position many times I wouldn't wish this upon anybody because it's demoralising,' she said. Surry Hills cafe owner Emanuel Tzirtzilakis told the inquiry how he was 'on the brink of financial ruin', The Sydney Morning Herald reported. Business owners say the light rail project has taken a financial, emotional and physical toll (pictured, construction of the project in Surry Hills) 'I am borderline checking into a psychiatric facility... (because) it is so depressing. I am on every medication there is,' Mr Tzirtzilakis said. Optical Illusions' Greg Tannos told the inquiry that he gets 'depressed going to work all the time'. Since August last year, the state government has provided $12.2million in rent relief for 92 businesses along the light rail route. Furious residents also say they've been forced to live like 'lab rats' during the construction of the light rail. Kensington resident Andrew Jordan told the parliamentary inquiry he's recorded the project breaching regulations or laws more than 200 times since 2015 - including the blocking of a fire exit. 'Their behaviour is consistent with "We can do whatever we want, and the residents can't do anything about it",' he said. Mr Jordan said overnight noise from construction outside his home had often reached 90dB - four times that of a lawnmower at the same distance. On one occasion he measured construction noise at 101dB - similar to a jackhammer being one metre away. Annette Keay says people living on Alison Road in Randwick have given up attending meetings with project management or calling the government's hotline. Residents who live along the route of the CBD and South-East Light Rail have also revealed how they have been impacted by the transport project (pictured, construction of the light rail project in Sydney's CBD near Wynyard train station) 'Nothing happens and you don't feel listened to. I see my neighbours and they've had three hours' sleep (at night),' she said. Kensington resident Diana Argirellis revealed measures to permanently mitigate noise and work at a nearby tram stabling yard included being told to keep doors and windows permanently closed. 'They are making us live like lab rats,' she said. Transport for NSW has been contacted for comment. The parliamentary inquiry into the delayed project is set to hear from the managing directors of two companies that make up the consortium responsible for the construction. The light rail was meant to be finished in 2019 but main contractor ALTRAC told the NSW government in April the new completion date was March 2020. The project was originally budgeted to cost $1.6billion before a $500million blowout. Spanish sub-contractor Acciona is seeking an extra $1.2 billion from the NSW government, saying it was misled over the complexity of the project. The Black History Month website has fallen victim to two cyber-attacks in just 24 hours in a 'massive orchestrated campaign by hackers'. The site, which celebrates 'Black History, Arts and Culture throughout the UK', was targeted in what has been dubbed a 'cyber-racism' attack. Editor Patrick Vernon claims it was a deliberate attempt to ensure the content of the site was not 'available or accessible'. The Black History Month website fell victim to two cyber-attacks in just 24 hours Mr Vernon told MailOnline the site was first attacked on Monday morning at 8.45am and within minutes of going back online yesterday, it was brought down again. He said the initial attack was tracked to an IP address in Doncaster, South Yorkshire and has launched an internal investigation before taking the matter to police. Editor Patrick Vernon (pictured) labelled the attack 'cyber racism' He told MailOnline the Windrush scandal had 'raised awareness of black history' which had aided the popularity of the website. He added: 'The website has been going number of years but this is the first time we've been attacked in this way. 'We are the most popular website in the UK on Black History Month and from October to December we get a couple of million hits a day. 'All our websites were taken down - it targeted our company and what we try to do. 'We don't know who did it but I believe it was deliberate attack on the first day of Black History Month which was trending at that time - so tens of thousands of people were going to our website because we had a listing of events across the UK. 'We were cynically taken out to deny people access to information, in what was a direct attack on our freedom of expression. 'This is part of a wider context - parts of society want to create divide and rule and disseminate hate. We are the victim of racism and discrimination. 'There is a strong, nasty element online - there tends to be a vitriol targeted at black people or anyone supporting the Windrush scandal.' Mr Vernon was made an OBE by the Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace in 2012 Mr Vernon tweeted last night: 'Apologies everyone our site @BhmUK is now down for 2nd day now running as result of a massive orchestrated campaign by hackers to ensure that our content is not available. 'This is cyber-racism is the new front line for fight equality and justice and attacking #BHM2018.' Luton Labour councillor Jacqui Burnett leant her support to the site, tweeting: 'Whether today or tomorrow our outstanding history and achievements despite the hate that many have for us will be shared and our youth enlighten. 'We will left our heads up high and our chests full with proud of how our ancestors overcame.' A message on the Black History Month twitter account read: 'The site is up again after being hacked as part of a cyber attack, we hope that the issue is fixed but cannot be certain that the same thing will not happen tomorrow. The people doing this a really good hackers [sic].' Advertisement British soldiers have joined forces with their Japanese counterparts for the first time on their soil as part of a fortnight-long exercise to strengthen ties between the two countries. Fifty soldiers from the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) have been deployed to the slopes of Mount Fuji where they met with the Japanese Ground Self-Defence Force. British generals said Japan would not have to 'fight alone' as North Korea continues to develop its nuclear programme, and China builds up its presence on disputed islands in the South China Sea. Fifty soldiers from the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) were deployed to the slopes of Mount Fuji where they met with the Japanese Ground Self-Defence Force on Tuesday During the exercise, troops demonstrated their rapid-reaction capabilities using a Chinook helicopter in front of dozens of Japanese journalists British generals said Japan would not have to 'fight alone' as North Korea continues to develop its nuclear programme, and China builds up its presence on disputed islands in the South China Sea 'Japan remains one of our most important strategic partners in the Asia-Pacific region and we welcome the opportunity to develop strong bi-lateral ties as well as demonstrate the UK's approach to joint exercises,' Lt General Patrick Sanders told the Daily Telegraph. 'No nation operates alone and we want to assure Japan that they will not have to fight alone either. 'Stability in Asia is essential to stability around the world and the UK is opposed to any change in the status quo by force. During the exercise, troops demonstrated their rapid-reaction capabilities using a Chinook helicopter in front of dozens of journalists. British soldiers and their counterparts from the Japanese Self Defence Forces board a Boeing CH-47 Chinook during the military drill The aim of Exercise Vigilant Isles is to strengthen the relationship between the two forces and share tactics and surveillance techniques, according to the Japanese Ministry of Defence A soldier aboard a Boeing CH-47 Chinook of the Japanese Self Defense Forces peers to the rear of the aircraft where others were boarding Prime Minister Theresa May spoke of a need to form closer defence ties between Britain and Japan during a visit to Tokyo last August, telling her Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe that his country can count on the UK as a 'dependable' partner The aim of Exercise Vigilant Isles is to strengthen the relationship between the two forces and share tactics and surveillance techniques, according to the Japanese Ministry of Defence. Prime Minister Theresa May spoke of a need to form closer defence ties between Britain and Japan during a visit to Tokyo last August, telling her Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe that his country can count on the UK as a 'dependable' partner in the face of an increasingly aggressive Pyongyang. The South China Sea is also a key regional flash point, with Japanese, American and British boats regularly angering the Chinese with 'freedom of navigation' missions in the area. Last month, HMS Albion was challenged by a Chinese destroyer as it sailed near the disputed Paracel islands. Britain is keen to show its commitment to Japan as tension mounts in Asia over China's claims to the South China Sea and North Korea's nuclear ambitions Three soldiers from the Japanese Self Defence Force (left) and two from the British Army use laser-guided equipment during the exercise Japanese journalists watch soldiers of the country's Self Defense forces and the British Army after they had boarded the Chinook A mother-of-three has been killed in an alleged hit and run, with police charging her ex-husband with her murder. Gayle Potter, 46, died after being hit by a vehicle in the driveway of her rural home in the country town of Traralgon, two hours south-east of Melbourne, about 8.30pm on Tuesday. Glenn Martyn, 53, was arrested by police soon after and taken in for questioning over the incident. He was later charged with one count of murder. Gayle Potter was killed in an alleged hit and run at Traralgon, in Victoria, on Tuesday night Glenn Martyn, 53, was arrested by police soon after and taken in for questioning over the incident Ms Potter's current partner said: She was loved with all our hearts and she will be sorely missed. Tributes have flowed from friends in the large regional town who say the nursery owner was a 'beautiful woman' and a 'dedicated mother who was always smiling'. Police were called to the property on Airfield Road about 8.30pm where they found Ms Potter's body. Ms Potter's death has devastated the local community, where she had lived most of her life. 'I'm devastated ... she was just an angel,' Traralgon local and friend Rick Hodgkiss told The Age. 'She never did anything wrong to anyone and was loved by so many people. I used to deliver goods to [her] family's business and Gayle used to unload my truck. She was just a beautiful soul and we always had a laugh.' Ms Potter's death has devastated the local community, where she had lived most of her life Police were called to the property on Airfield Road about 8.30pm where they found Ms Potter's body On Wednesday, Ms Potter's colleagues at the Traralgon West Nursery, left the doors open as a sign of respect. The driver of the vehicle initially fled the scene, but the circumstances of the accident have yet to be fully established. He will face La Trobe Valley Magistrates Court on Thursday morning. Victoria Police said on Wednesday afternoon that their investigation is continuing. This is the heart-breaking moment a teenager bursts into tears at her 18th birthday party - dancing with a teddy bear adorned with her late father's face. Aljean Legaspino was celebrating her 'debut party' in Davo, Philippines, where it is tradition that the birthday girl has her first dance to mark her entry into adulthood with her father. Ms Legaspino's father Rogelio was killed in a car accident four years ago, and the family said the self-confessed 'daddy's girl' was heartbroken that he would not be there to dance with her. While another male relative, such as an uncle or brother, are known to step in when a father is not around for the dance, Ms Legaspino's relatives said they knew the the would rather dance alone, than have someone try take her father's place. The birthday girl was expecting to awkwardly give the dance a miss, but her family surprised her by presenting her with a large teddy bear which they had ordered and printed Rogelio's picture to wrap around the bears head. When it came to the big moment, Ms Legaspino broke down as she clutched the bear and a bundle of roses while slowly dancing in her red dress with tears pouring down her face. Emotional: A moving video shows 18-year-old Aljean Legaspino breaking down as she clutches the soft toy wearing her late father's picture Ms Legaspino's father Rogelio died four years ago but the 18-year-old had made it clear that she would rather dance alone than have her father replaced by another male relative Ms Legaspino's cousin Janine said all of the guests were moved by the gesture and many were crying at the event on August 20. She said: 'Aljean was so close to her father. Everyone knew it would be hard for her to reach this milestone in her life without him. 'We knew she was feeling sad about not being able to dance with him. 'We did this small gesture so that Aljean could feel close to him again. I am sure that he is looking down over her and protecting her. He would have been so proud.' Speaking afterwards, Ms Legaspino said it was a very bitter sweet moment. She added: 'I was crying so much. It was very emotional. 'I was sad but I was so overwhelmed that my family had done that. It was a very special moment and it will be the most memorable part.' A gangster who went on the run following a spectacular prison escape over the summer has been recaptured in France. Redoine Faid, whom police had tracked since early July, after armed gunmen sprung him from jail to escape in a helicopter, was arrested in the town of Creil, north of Paris. His brother Rachid and two other family members were also detained, a police source said. Faid, who once said his life was inspired by films like 'Scarface', was serving a 25-year sentence at a prison south of the French capital for an armed robbery that went wrong and led to the death of a policewoman in 2010. In July, dramatic footage emerged of the moment he pulled off a brazen jailbreak by fleeing from a prison near Paris in a hijacked helicopter. A gangster who went on the run following a spectacular prison escape over the summer has been recaptured in France. Pictured is the building in Creil, northern France, where the police raid took place Pictures show the interior of the flat where fugitive Redoine Faid was arrested in Creil, in the department of Oise, northern France Faid (pictured), who once said his life was inspired by films like 'Scarface', was serving a 25-year sentence at a prison south of the French capital for an armed robbery that went wrong and led to the death of a policewoman in 2010 Faid went on the run following a spectacular prison escape (pictured) over the summer involving a hijacked helicopter The 46-year-old who was once France's most wanted man broke out of the penitentiary in Reau in the capital's southeastern suburbs, with the help of two accomplices in an operation lasting just ten minutes. They used smoke bombs and angle grinders to overcome wardens in the facility's visiting room where Faid was talking to a brother. In video captured inside the jail, inmates could be heard cheering as guards sprinted through the prison grounds and a helicopter hovered overhead. A huge manhunt, involving nearly 3,000 police officers was launched across France. French Justice Minister Nicole Belloubet said the commandos most likely 'used drones to survey the location' beforehand. It was the second time Faid had pulled off a spectacular jailbreak - in 2013, he blasted his way out of a prison in northern France using dynamite. He was recaptured six weeks later. Photos show a bedroom inside the apartment where fugitive Faid was recaptured by French police The 46-year-old who was once France 's most wanted man broke out of the penitentiary in Reau in the capital's southeastern suburbs, with the help of two accomplices in an operation lasting just ten minutes. Pictures show the interior of the flat where he was recaptured Redoine Faid, whom police had tracked since early July, after armed gunmen sprung him from jail (pictured) to escape in a helicopter, was arrested in the town of Creil, north of Paris A huge manhunt was launched after Faid's July escape. Pictures show the helicopter said to have been used in the escape after it was abandoned Police are pictured investigating a car abandoned by French armed robber Redoine Faid at O'Parinor shopping mall in Aulnay-sous-Bois, north of Paris in July The helicopter - hijacked from a terrified flight instructor - landed in the prison yard. Guards did not open fire, fearing the aircraft would crash into prison buildings and because of the civilian pilot. The two black-clad men armed with assault rifles set off smoke bombs before breaking their way into the prison's visitation room using power tools. At the time, sources said there were three accomplices. The wardens, who were unarmed, fled to safety and raised the alarm. The accomplices went into the visitation room, reportedly armed with Kalashnikov rifles, and demanded Faid's release, BFM-TV reported. A union representative told local media that the men were 'dressed in black and hooded' while wearing police armbands. The helicopter was later found in Garges-les-Gonesse, a northeastern suburb of Paris about 37 miles from the prison. Armed police stand by as investigators transport an Alouette II helicopter allegedly abandoned by French prisoner Redoine Faid to pull off a brazen prison break in July A car abandoned by Faid is seen at O'Parinor shopping mall parking after his escape onboard a helicopter from a prison in Reau A police source said the helicopter pilot was a flight instructor waiting for a student when he was seized by Faid's accomplices. He was forced to fly before being later freed in a state of shock. The men apparently went on to use a car that was later found torched in a shopping mall carpark, police said. At the time, detectives feared Faid may attempt to disguise himself as an Orthodox Jew and head to Israel where he had often expressed his wish to settle. He speaks Hebrew and in an autobiography published in 2010 told how disguising himself as an 'ultra-Orthodox Jew' was a perfect way of evading police. Three armed and well-trained men reportedly presented themselves at the prison (pictured in a file image) in July and demanded Faid's release Faid said he had learnt firearms skills off an Israeli Defense Force soldier, and wanted to settle in the Middle East country. It has become an increasingly popular destination for French criminals running away from justice and following an escape in 2013 Interpol was alerted that Faid was trying to get hold of forged documents to get him to Tel Aviv. The escape came after an appeals court in April sentenced Faid to 25 years for masterminding a botched armed robbery in 2010 in which a policewoman was killed. Faid had been behind bars since mid-2011 for breaking the terms of his parole over past convictions for bank robberies and brazen heists of cash-in-transit vehicles. In his 2013 jailbreak, he briefly took four guards hostage with a pistol before escaping in a waiting getaway car. All the hostages were released unharmed. Faid was recaptured six weeks later at a hotel in an industrial area on the outskirts of Paris. A woman working at the hotel told AFP at the time that Faid's accomplice had paid for the room in cash and that the two men had been there for several days. Faid had earlier been released from a 10-year stint behind bars after convincing parole officers that he regretted his criminal past and was determined to start afresh. Police nicknamed him 'The Author' for two books he co-wrote about his delinquent youth. The aircraft landed in Garges-les-Gonesse, about 37 miles from the prison. Pictured: The aircraft in a field after the escape It is the second time Faid has pulled off a spectacular jailbreak - in 2013, he blasted his way out of a prison (pictured at the time) in northern France using dynamite before being recaptured six weeks later Faid, who has a cult following in the tough immigrant suburbs outside Paris where he grew up, has made several television appearances. At a Paris film festival in April 2009, Faid approached Michael Mann, director of the 1995 gangster film 'Heat' starring Al Pacino and Robert Niro, telling him: 'You were my technical adviser.' He wrote that he had watched the film dozens of times to perfect his bank-robbing prowess. One of his prison supervisors said that Faid had never had any conflict with staff, 'but we must always be wary'. 'In the corner of his mind, he never lost the idea of escaping. Behind all his manners - he is very polite - he always hid his game,' the supervisor said. Delabroye, the prison union rep, said the yard where the helicopter landed is the only area not equipped with anti-aircraft netting because inmates never use it - 'except to leave the prison'. This is the dramatic moment a masked gang steal a motorbike in front of stunned witnesses in a busy city centre. Three brazen thieves could be seen using bolt cutters to break through its chain before wheeling off on the Yamaha in broad daylight in Manchester. A witness said it happened in front of office workers, shoppers and two bewildered workmen at around 2.10pm on Tuesday afternoon. A gang of thieves stole a red Yamaha motorcycle in Manchester city centre yesterday afternoon. They used bolt cutters to free the bike from its chain He said: 'Me and a colleague were walking back to the office and we saw two mopeds with three men in balaclavas riding them. 'I said "I bet one of those bikes is about to be stolen". So I stayed on to film it. 'There were a few people on the street and they were threatening everyone who was filming or watching. They were saying "we will come for you". The three men arrived on a moped and opened its compartment to get the bolt cutters (pictured) The brazen thieves pulled the throttle and pushed the bike back and forward to start the engine without a key 'I wanted to jump in but I thought they could have had anything on them. They had bolt cutters and used them to break the chain. Then they rode off past the Arndale.' The office worker said he has since spoken to the owner of the motorbike who told him the vehicle cost 7,000. A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: 'Police were called to Fountain Street in the city centre just before 2.30pm on Tuesday afternoon to reports of a stolen bike. Officers are investigating the incident.' A picture of pre-packaged meat with a security tag attached at a major supermarket has divided social media. 'Has it come to this?' asked the stunned shopper who posted the image on Reddit. The picture of Coles brand pork fillet shows the meat in a see-thru plastic bag with a bright yellow security tag. The images comes on the back of a boom in self-service checkouts which have reportedly resulted in an increase in theft. Users quickly debated the meaning of the security tag which is often used on high-priced electrical and beauty products. A picture showing a Coles pork fillet was shared to Reddit with the tag line 'has is come to this' showing the meat with a bright yellow security tag and Reddit users were quick to respond 'Usually the illusion of security is just as effective as real security and far cheaper,' one user wrote. Another felt the tag had a duel purpose. 'The tag changes colour if the meat warms up above the safe refrigeration temperature,' the user wrote. Theft costs the industry more than $7.5 billion each year according to figures from the Australian Retailers Association. It has steadily increased over the past decade according to various sources. Theft constituted 70 per cent of all retail crime in the state according to a New South Wales Government Justice Department report. Figures from a number of organisations show that in general, retail theft has seen a steady increase over the past decade including a spike at self service checkouts 'Retail theft has been fuelled by consumer demands for low-cost goods coupled with a reduction in staff on the retail selling floor,' the report reads. 'This environment provides numerous opportunities and motivation for the enterprising shoplifter and dishonest employee.' 'Research has shown that often goods stolen are resold on the secondary market, through auction sites for example, and to unscrupulous retailers.' Figures showed that females are more likely than males to be apprehended shoplifting and almost 80,000 juveniles had been caught in the last decade (stock image) Theft has risen 4.1 per cent in the past 60 months in NSW according to another Justice Department study. ABS figures also show retail theft made up 19 per cent of all juvenile crime from 2008 to 2017 for a total of 78,093 offenders. 'The number of offenders with a principal offence of Theft increased by 4% between 201516 and 201617,' the study stated. 'This was the fourth consecutive annual increase since 201314.' 'South Australia had the highest offender rate for Theft at 642 offenders per 100,000 persons, followed by 551 offenders per 100,000 persons in New South Wales.' SHOPLIFTING STATISTICS Females are more likely than males to be apprehended for a shoplifting offence. Adolescents are over-represented in shoplifter population. Research suggests that acts of shoplifting can be categorised as either rational or non-rational. The majority of shoplifters are motivated by profit or gain. Source: Australian Institute of Criminology Advertisement Self service checkouts have also presented greater opportunity for retail theft but a new technology could soon curve that trend, news.com.au reported. The technology, created by Tilter Technology will employ product recognition, preventing thieves from cheating the system. Co-founder Chris Sampson said a camera would allow the machines to identify the product and then automatically register its price to the sub total. 'Its based on machine learning and artificial intelligence which has been taught to recognise different types of fruit and other products,' he told news.com.au. 'The big value for supermarkets is removing the significant loss seen from people entering the wrong information when using self-service checkouts.' Coles was contacted for comment on the new security tags. Vladimir Putin today lashed out at the spy poisoned in the Salisbury novichok attack, branding him a 'scumbag' and a 'traitor'. The Kremlin has denied it was behind the nerve agent attack on Sergei Skripal, a former double agent who sold Russian secrets to the British. But former KGB agent Putin reaffirmed his views on those who betray Russia today in a furious outburst about Mr Skripal. Putin told an energy forum in Moscow: 'He is just a spy, a traitor to the motherland... He is just a scumbag.' His angry comments give a rare insight into Putin's views on Skripal - whose assassination he is accused of ordering. Vladimir Putin has called the spy Russia alleged poisoned in Salisbury 'a scumbag' and 'a traitor to the motherland' Mr Skripal, pictured (left) in recent years and (right) during his time in the Russian military, handed over Russian secrets to MI6 and later moved to Britain in a spy swap Putin also made an apparent reference to Dawn Sturgess, the British mother-of-three who died after coming into contact with novichok in the wake of the attack. Chuckling, Putin said: 'If we say that Skripal was poisoned, are you saying we poisoned some homeless person there too? 'Sometimes I'm amazed by what's going on around this case: so some guys came to Great Britain and started poisoning homeless people? What nonsense! They work for a clean-up service, do they? On Skirpal, he added: 'This is a traitor, he got caught, was punished and spent a total of five years in jail. We let him go. That's it. 'He left and then continued to collaborate with some secret services, consulting them. So what? What are we talking about here?' It was the first time Mr Putin has directly condemned Mr Skripal, who spent weeks in hospital with his daughter Yulia after both were poisoned in Salisbury in March. It also confirms that Russia believes Skripal was still working with spy agencies after he was brought to Britain. The Russian leader reiterated his country's claim that it has nothing to do with the poisoning. This new photograph of Salisbury poisoning suspect of Anatoliy Chepiga (left) seems to match existing images of 'Ruslan Boshirov' - the pseudonym Chepiga used when he appeared on RT in September (right). This would provide more evidence against the Kremlin's denials Chepiga, 39, was believed to be using the name Ruslan Boshirov when he and accomplice, identified under another alias, 'Alexander Petrov', poisoned Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in Salisbury in March. The two men are seen on CCTV at Salisbury railway station His comments came after a new picture emerged of one of the assassins involved in the attack, GRU agent Anatoliy Chepiga. The image seems to disprove Kremlin claims he was not a senior agent who was made a Hero of Russia during a secret ceremony in 2014. The new picture was uncovered by journalists at a Prague-based radio station trawled through hundreds of photos from a wall of heroes at the Far-Eastern Military Academy, which Chepiga graduated from in 2001. 'From various photographs it could be seen that the wall is decorated with portraits of alumni who have received the Hero of the Russian Federation award,' reported the Britain-based Bellingcat website, which has led revelations on the story . A portrait resembling Chepiga on the far end of the wall had already been pictured several times, but previously it had not been of sufficient high revolution to establish a conclusive match. Dawn Sturgess (left) died after spraying Novichok on her wrists thinking it was a perfume. Her boyfriend, Charlie Rowley, (right) fell critically ill but recovered. Both photos are undated Chepiga is said to appear in this photo (circled) with a group of fellow military graduates in Chechnya Skripal 'worked with spies after UK move' A Nato source has also said Skripal continued working with Western spy agencies after coming to Britain, a theory repeated by Putin today. German Focus magazine quotes the official as saying Skripal was sent to Prague in 2012 - two years after he first moved to the UK. Here he briefed local security agencies on Russian espionage networks. Citing a 'senior employee of NATO counter-espionage Allied Command Counterintelligence' working at its headquarters in Brussels, the magazine claims that the information he gathered was considered so valuable Czech officials would even travel to Salisbury to meet him. The magazine also claims that Skripal was sent to Costa del Sol to carry out reconnaissance on behalf of Spain's National Intelligence Centre. Then in 2016, the magazine reports that Skripal provided the Estonian secret service in Tallin with information - amid fears the country, which shares a border with Russia, could be taken over by Putin. Advertisement Now a new image has emerged showing 'the face and name of Col. Chepiga with sufficient quality to make identification possible,' Bellingcat said. The site claims this matches existing photos of Chepiga, including CCTV stills from Salisbury. It concluded: 'This new photo, seen against the backdrop of a mountain of additional evidence, will present a fresh challenge to Russian authorities who can no longer credibly deny or even equivocate that it was Colonel Chepiga who, in his own words, travelled to and back from Salisbury, and that he was furthermore the recipient of the Hero of the Russian Federation award, traditionally presented by the Russian president himself.' Chepiga, 39, was believed to be using the name Ruslan Boshirov when he and accomplice, identified under another alias, 'Alexander Petrov', poisoned Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in Salisbury in March. In a separate new revelation, it has been alleged that Chepiga helped spring toppled Ukrainian pro-Putin president Viktor Yanukovych to safety during the 2014 revolution in Kiev, the possible reason for him being made a Hero of Russia. Russian journalist Sergey Kanev of the Dose [Dossier] Centre also claimed Chepiga's wife Galina, with whom he shares two children, had also worked as an undercover agent. Kanev fled Russia before making his claims and is now 'safe' abroad. Investigative website Bellingcat found Col Chepiga's passport photo from 2003 (left) and saw it bore a similarity to 'Ruslan Boshirov's' passport photo from 2009 (middle) and the one on his cover passport (right) Chepiga, posing as Boshirov, (left) was captured on CCTV laughing with Alexander Petrov shortly after the attack on March 4 Yanukovych was spirited out of Ukraine in 2014 as protesters took hold of capital city Kiev. The fallen president - renowned for his gargantuan corruption - claimed he was shot at as he fled. How Bellingcat worked out the 'Ruslan Boshirov's' true identity Acting on the assumption 'Ruslan Boshirov' was a GRU officer, Bellingcat spoke to former Russian military officers to ask where he might have been trained. One suggested the Far Eastern Military Command Academy, so they browsed through its graduation photos to find a man who resembled him. They found one possible match, which seemed to show him with a group of graduates in Chechnya (see top of the article). The photo said seven of the men had won at Hero of the Russian Federation of the award, so Bellingcat searched the award on the Internet along with 'Far Eastern Military Command Academy' and 'Chechnya'. This led to a page of the Volunteer Union website, which listed a colonel called Anatoliy Chepiga, who was linked to all three search terms. They then found his name twice in leaked lists of residential addresses, which gave his date of birth as April 5, 1979. This was one year later than 'Boshirov's' cover documents, but matched up with his graduation from the military academy. Bellingcat then obtained a passport file for Col Chepiga from 2003, and found his photo strongly matched a 2009 passport photo of 'Boshirov' released by UK police, as well as his cover passport shot. Advertisement He was smuggled to Crimea and now lives under close guard in Russia. 'Chepiga-Boshirov took part in the evacuation of Yanukovych to Russia - at least my sources claim so,' wrote Kanev. 'He and his special forces unit arrived at the Yanukovych residence in Mezhyhirya (near Kiev). He was there, guarding (Yanukovych). They transported him from there to Crimea and further to Russia.' One theory is that he was taken to safety by a Russian submarine. The operation was led by former Putin bodyguard Alexey Dyumin, now governor of Tula region. Dyumin is being groomed by Putin as his choice as his Kremlin successor, claim some experts. Putin is known to have taken an exceptionally close interest in the operation to spring Yanukovych which - combined with the medal award - would suggest he knew of Chepiga at first hand. Soon after Yanukovych was taken to Russia, Putin annexed Crimea from Ukraine sparking outrage in the West. Chepiga's wife is said to have worked as a 'freelance' in a detachment 'of special purpose' of Khabarovsk region. The military unit was 20662. Chepiga was also attached to the same military unit where his wife allegedly worked undercover. Later both were traced to an address in Moscow listed in a student hostel of the Russian State University for Humanities on Kirovogradskaya Street. Yanukovych's lawyer denied Chepiga has played a role in his rescue. Vitaly Serdyuk said: 'Assistance in the flight to Crimea of Viktor Yanukovych was provided by the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation, and not by the well-known citizens Boshirov and Petrov, who with one stroke of the journalistic pen appeared in this story.' This undated image is alleged to show Chepiga (circled) posing with fellow members of the Russian military Putin's lies over the Salibury poisoning were exposed by Bellingcat when it named Colonel Chepiga on September 26. What is Bellingcat? Bellingcat is a British investigative journalism website that specialises on war and the criminal underground. It started as a blog in 2012 by Eliot Higgins, and relies on information gathered by 'citizen journalists' - members of the public who do not work for a professional journalism organisation. The site first received international attention for its analysis of forged data on satellite pictures showing the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 during the war in Ukraine. Its name comes from the expression 'belling a cat', which derives from a medieval fairytale about mice which plan to make a cat harmless by putting a bell around its neck. Advertisement Only a few weeks before, Vladimir Putin went on television to claim that two suspects captured on CCTV were civilians and not GRU military intelligence officers. The Kremlin was branded shameful for claiming Chepiga and his unknown accomplice, who used the alias Alexander Petrov, were holidaymakers. Boris Johnson tweeted: 'Utterly predictable news that GRU is behind Skripal atrocity.' The former foreign secretary added: 'What have you got to say, Putin?' The two Russian agents were charged over the poisonings by the Crown Prosecution Service earlier this month. But they later appeared on Russian TV to insist they were visiting Salisbury for its cathedral. As the bungled attack that left one dead and three seriously ill took another twist: It emerged that Chepiga fought for a feared Spetsnaz unit for 17 years and worked undercover for at least nine. Bellingcat obtained passport files Col Chepiga which included his address and date of birth Theresa May attacks Putin at the UN for his 'desperate fabrication' over the Salisbury spy poisoning The Prime Minister attacked Russia for its 'desperate fabrication' over the Salisbury spy poisoning as she addressed world leaders in New York in September. Britain has set out detailed evidence about the prime suspects in the nerve agent attack on former spy Sergei Skripal and daughter Yulia while Russia has only sought to 'obfuscate', she said. Theresa May lambasted Russia for its 'desperate fabrication' over the Salisbury poisoning while addressing the General Assembly of the UN on Wednesday Mrs May told the United Nations Security Council: 'We have taken appropriate action, with our allies, and we will continue to take the necessary steps to ensure our collective security. Russia has only sought to obfuscate through desperate fabrication.' Mrs May called on Russia to rejoin the international consensus against the use of chemical weapons and said there should be no doubt of the international community's determination to take action if it did not. She said: 'We cannot let the framework be undermined today by those who reject the values and disregard the rules that have kept us safe. 'It will take collective engagement to reinforce it in the face of today's challenges. And in this, as has always been the case, the UK will play a leading role.' Advertisement Sources said the soldier's high rank the same as his intended victim, Colonel Sergei Skripal suggested the attack was sanctioned at the highest level. Senior politicians queued up to accuse the Russians of being 'seriously dishonest' and lying about their complicity. What is the Novichok nerve agent used against the Skripals? Novichok was secretly developed by the Soviet Union during the height of the Cold war in the 1970s and 1980s. Communist scientists developed the poison so it would not be able to be detected by Nato's chemical detection equipment. They come in the form of a ultra-fine powder, Novichok is up to eight times more potent than the deadly VX gas. Victims who are poisoned by the powder suffer muscle spasms, breathing problems and then cardiac arrest. There is a known antidote to the nerve agent - atropine can block the poison. But doctors find it very tricky to administer the antidote because the dose would have to be so high it could prove fatal for the person. Advertisement The identity of Chepiga was uncovered by investigative organisation Bellingcat, best known for its insight into the fighting in Ukraine. It found that Chepiga has won more than 20 awards and a Hero of the Russian Federation medal during his illustrious military career. Born in the isolated village of Nikolayevka, on the Russian-Chinese border in 1979, he is married with a teenage son. In 2001 he graduated from the Far-Eastern Military Command Academy before being deployed to Chechnya three times. Its website states: 'Anatoly Vladimirovich Chepiga was awarded the honorary title of Hero of the Russian Federation by order of the president of the Russian Federation.' His name appears under a gold star honour list on a monument to academy alumni at a base near the Chinese border. The medals are normally awarded by the president personally, and are given only to a handful of people each year. Unlike most recipients there is little public information about Chepiga's life and official documents are marked 'top secret'. The secretive nature of the award, combined with its timing in 2014, suggests it was for actions in Ukraine. His Spetsnaz unit was pictured on the eastern Ukraine border. This undated image shows Sergei Skripal (right) and his daughter Yulia eating at a restaurant Now looking even more shaky... The 'farcical' RT interview that saw the would-be assassins claim they were innocent civilians Revelations about the military background of Colonel Anatoliy Vladimirovich Chepiga make the interview he gave to RT in September alongside the second suspected assassin Alexander Petrov appear even more farcical. Observers quickly pointed out a number of gaping holes in their story, including: The 'accidental' visit to Skripal's home CCTV released by police places the two suspects at Sergei Skripal's suburban house. Today the men admitted they may have ended up there - but claimed it was an accident. The property, which had Novichok smeared on the door, is 25 minutes away from the city centre and its cathedral - which the men said they were there to see. Ruslan Boshirov said: 'Maybe we passed it, or maybe we didn't. I'd never heard about them before this nightmare started. I'd never heard this name before. I didn't know anything about them'. The hotel 127 miles from Salisbury Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov were guests at the City Stay Hotel in Bow, East London, before poisoning Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia. The Metropolitan Police confirmed today that 'low' levels of the nerve agent were found in the two-star 48 a night hotel in May. The men chose a spot some distance from Waterloo - the main rail route to Salisbury - despite making the Wiltshire city the focus of their visit. It is 127 miles from Salisbury. The 'bad' weather Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov claimed that they only stayed in Salisbury because of heavy snow. The pair visited days after the Beast from the East hit Britain bringing unseasonably cold weather. Describing the condition Boshirov said: 'It was impossible to get anywhere because of the snow. We were drenched up to our knees'. But CCTV pictures of the men shows the pavements were largely clear of snow. They also told RT that it snowed in the city that afternoon, but weather maps from that day show sunshine and clear skies. The missing luggage The men went straight from Salisbury to Heathrow for the evening flight. But CCTV suggested that they did not have any luggage with them on their way home. Advertisement Investigators also found documents that trace Chepiga's movements around Russia and Europe. He pops up at a remote military unit and in Moscow where he is likely to have studied at the Military Diplomatic Academy, or 'GRU Conservatory'. The GRU was betrayed by Mr Skripal before he was jailed and sent to the UK in a spy swap. He and his daughter were poisoned in March in Salisbury. Chepiga and Petrov are also accused of murdering Dawn Sturgess, who was inadvertently poisoned when she discovered a perfume bottle filled with the deadly novichok nerve agent used on the Skripals. Tom Tugendhat, who chairs the Commons foreign affairs committee, said: 'It is confirmation of what we have known for a long time that Russia is serially dishonest in its foreign affairs and has again lied about its complicity. 'These guys are amateurs. Their cover couldn't even survive investigation by newspapers.' The two Russian agents on Fisherton Road in Salisbury around the time of the attack in March This map shows the progress of the spies' assassination plot, as police managed to piece together using CCTV Arlene Foster has warned Theresa May that she has a 'blood red' line against any Brexit deal which threatens the unity of the United Kingdom. The leader of the DUP - whose MPs are propping the PM up in Number Ten - said that Northern Ireland must not be treated differently to the rest of the UK in any deal. It comes after the party threw the PM's bid to unblock Brexit talks into turmoil by warning they would vote against any deal involving checks in the Irish Sea. It is thought the Prime Minister could suggest a compromise that involves checks on goods coming into Northern Ireland from Great Britain. But Nigel Dodds, the DUPs Westminster leader, said they would vote against the introduction of barriers between the mainland and Ulster. Mrs May is facing an onslaught of criticism over her Chequers Brexit plan. Boris Johnson yesterday lashed the PM's plan in a fiery speech to activists at the Tory Party conference speech - warning it would be a 'humiliation'. The thorny issue of the Irish border is the final major sticking point in the Brexit negotiations, threatening to derail the chances of getting a deal in time. Arlene Foster (pictured at Tory Party conference in Birmingham yesterday) has warned Theresa May that she has a 'blood red' line against any Brexit deal which threatens the unity of the United Kingdom Mrs Foster told the BBC: 'There cannot be a border down the Irish sea, a differential between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK. The red line is blood red. 'All along we have said - no new regulatory alignment.' Theresa May to plead for Tory unity in conference speech Theresa May will plead with 'decent patriots' to unite behind her today saying Britain's 'best days lie ahead'. After a Tory conference marred by civil war over Brexit, the PM will insist she has a positive vision matching that of bitter rival Boris Johnson. She will point to a new 'global' immigration system, crackdown on property investors from abroad, and fuel duty freeze as evidence that she can make the country work for ordinary people. The crucial conference speech could be a make or break moment for Mrs May as she battles to push through a Brexit deal. Like last year's event - when a prankster presented her with a fake P45 on stage and then she lost her voice - Mrs May has a heavy cold, but aides insist she is up to putting on a show. Her address will inevitably be compared to the barn-storming appearance by Mr Johnson yesterday. The ex foreign secretary was cheered to the rafters by around 1,500 Tory activists as he condemned the PM's plan for Brexit as an 'outrage'. in her speech, Mrs May will call for 'decent, moderate, patriotic' Britons and her warring party to unite behind her to keep 'appalling' Jeremy Corbyn out of power. She will say: 'Millions of people who have never supported our party in the past are appalled by what Jeremy Corbyn has done to Labour. 'They want to support a party that is decent, moderate and patriotic. One that puts the national interest first. Delivers on the issues they care about. And is comfortable with modern Britain in all its diversity. 'We must show everyone in this country that we are that party. 'A party that conserves the best of our inheritance but is not afraid of change. A party of patriotism but not nationalism. A party that believes in business but is not afraid to hold businesses to account. 'A party that believes in the good that government can do but knows that government will never have all the answers. A party that believes your success in life should not be defined by who you love, your faith, the colour of your skin, who your parents were, or where you were raised - but by your talent and hard work. 'Above all a party of Unionism, not just of four proud nations, but of all our people. 'A party not for the few, not even for the many, but for everyone who is willing to work hard and do their best.' Advertisement Asked if her MPs may vote down a Brexit deal, she said: 'We don't want to be in that position.' 'This is too important to be playing around with things because this is the union - this is what brought me into politics.' Earlier this week she said her party was not bluffing about its staunch opposition to anything that would create a border between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. She said: We have to ensure that there is no border down the Irish Sea, we have to continue to have the integrity of our country maintained from a constitutional point of view and also from an economic point of view. 'We are not going to allow the United Kingdom to be broken up by Brussels or by anybody else. Northern Ireland is not about to become a semi-detached part of the United Kingdom. [European Commission chief negotiator Michel] Barnier cannot annexe off part of the United Kingdom so he can say that thats the way forward. We are not bluffing on this issue. We are very clear, our job is to protect the union, our job is to do what is right for Northern Ireland and you can be assured that we will do that. Asked if she would accept any additional differences in how goods are regulated in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, she said: No, no, no no. The PM is facing a massive political battle to get her warring Tory MPs and the EU signed up to a Brexit deal in time to ensure the UK does not crash out without a deal. But her plans are under siege from many sides - EU leaders have poured scorn on her plans, Brexiteers are demanding she ditch Chequers, while Remainers have upped their campaign for a second referendum. The Irish border is the final major issue which is proving to be an obstacle to getting a deal thrashed out. All sides have said they are committed to preventing the return of a hard Irish border amid fears it could reignite the sectarian violence of the Troubles. Yet Mrs May is at loggerheads with the EU over how to keep the border - which will be the UK's only land crossing with the Brussels bloc after Brexit - soft. The EU wants Northern Ireland to stick to their market and customs rules unless a new deal can be done which keeps the border soft. But the PM has ruled this out - saying that this would slap a customs border in the Irish Sea between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK. She has refused to countenance the plan and said that it is something which no British Prime Minister could ever sign up to. Instead her Chequers plan would see the entire UK stick to EU rules on goods by having a 'common rulebook' with the bloc, which the country could diverge from over time. Theresa May (pictured reading her speech) will today call for 'decent, moderate, patriotic' Britons to unite behind the Tories to keep 'appalling' Jeremy Corbyn out of power But her plan has been met with derision from EU leaders who have ruled it out and warned her that she must make significant progress in changing the deal within the next few weeks or risk crashing out of the bloc with no deal. The DUP's ten MPs wield a massive amount of power in Britain's parliament, and are propping Mrs May up in No10 in a confidence and supply deal. If they withdrew their support for her then she would lose her working majority and face being swiftly toppled from Government. Advertisement A series of incredible photos taken by a British Army officer during his travels through Asia in the early 20th century have been revealed as they come up for auction for the first time. Godfrey Dickson Tanner worked as a stationer in India before he served as a captain in the Royal Engineers at the outbreak of the First World War. He used India as a base from which to explore further east - making several visits to China and Japan. Tanner, from Lewes, East Sussex, returned to India following the war and in his lifetime he took over 4,000 photos which are now being sold at auction by Dominic Winter, of Cirencester, Glocs, with a pre-sale estimate of 14,000. The majority of the photos were taken during first spell in India from 1907 to 1913 where he was based at Regent House in Simla and have now been consigned for sale by a British photograph archive which has owned them since Tanner's death aged 88 in 1964. Tanner was fascinated by the local population and took many photos of street performers, stall holders and spiritualists, as well as a sacred five legged cow. Another bizarre photo captures a boy playing cards with two monkeys. Chris Albury, a specialist at Dominic Winter, said the photos 'represent his complete archive' and said Tanner had 'a good eye for photographing indigenous people and scenes'. Godfrey Dickson Tanner took hundreds of photos of typical Indian street scenes, including this bread seller in Delhi (left) and watchmaker at a bazaar in Shimla (right). Tanner spent a great deal of time during his Army service in India and returned to the country after the First World War Among Tanner's most unusual subjects was this mystical five-legged cow which he snapped on a street in British Calcutta. The cow was believed to have been sacred by the local population as most cows are still revered for their holiness by Hindus in India today A woman with her children in Matiana, near Shimla. Shimla was a British hillside town which had been constructed to give troops and colonial rulers somewhere to escape to in the hottest summer months. The hilly region of Himachal Pradesh was much cooler than the plains of Rajasthan A variety of scenes from early 20th century China are among the collection of photographs going up for sale at auction. In these pictures, a man can be seen having his haircut (bottom left) and a traditional method of sawing wood can be seen in action (top center) Another of Tanner's incredible pictures shows an Indian child playing cards with two monkeys. The majority of the photos were taken during first spell in India from 1907 to 1913 where he was based at Regent House in Shimla as he made almost daily excursions to photograph local people A meditating man sitting on top of a basket in an Indian street. Tanner's most notable subjects are typical Indian people going about their daily lives. Dominic Winter, the auctioneers responsible for the sale of his archive said he had ' a good eye for photographing indigenous people and scenes' Tanner was said to have used India as a base from which to launch himself into other photographic projects across Asia. Pictured here are several of the scenes he managed to capture in China during his travels, including several shots of beggars and the traditional Chinese method of using hand and foot warmers A group of musicians playing instruments in the street in India to try and raise some money. Among the instruments being played are the 'chande', a large drum with tribal connotations, and the pungi, a wind instrument often played by snake charmers on the Indian subcontinent A man consulting an astrologer on the street of Burma's capital Rangoon. British rule in Burma lasted from 1824 to 1948. After the Japanese invaded Burma during the Second World War the British could not hold on to power in the region despite defeating the invaders due to anti-British sentiment A spiritualist meditating on the dusty ground in India. Spirituality in general is seen as a process of learning the secrets of the world beneath and outside to gain inner peace. It is prominent in both North and South India and is particularly popular among the Hindus of the country As part of his travels through India Tanner visited the city of Calcutta, renowned as both a seat of British power and a place of extreme poverty. Pictures show beggars playing music in the streets and people in white robes going about their daily lives in the crowded city White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders shrugged off complaints on Wednesday afternoon that President Trump's verbal attack on Christine Blasey Ford at a rally went too far and may have put Judge Brett Kavanaugh's nomination in additional peril. Sanders repeatedly told journalists at her first press briefing in almost a month that 'he was stating facts' and was not mocking sexual assault victims when he added a Ford impression to his campaign rally repertoire. 'The president was stating the facts, and frankly, facts that were included in Special Prosecutor Rachel Mitchell's report. He was stating facts that were given during Dr. Ford's testimony,' she said. 'The Senate has to make a a decision based on those facts and whether or not they see Judge Kavanaugh as qualified to hold a position on the Supreme Court.' She demanded that lawmakers on the fence decide on the evidence and not emotion and rejected suggestions that Trump's comments, which made key senators uncomfortable, would be Kavanaugh's undoing in the protracted debate over whether he should be seated on the court. 'I don't think so. The president's very confident in his nominee, as he's stated time and time again,' she asserted. 'And we expect the Senate to vote, and we hope they do that soon.' Arizona Republican Sen. Jeff Flake had blasted Trump for using his Tuesday evening campaign rally to mock Ford, who accused Kavanaugh of sexually abusing her decades ago under oath. He said Trump's conduct was 'appalling' and there's 'no place' in the conversation for the president's remarks. Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, two other key Republicans, said they were rankled by Trump's impression, as well. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders shrugged off complaints on Wednesday afternoon that President Trump's verbal attack on Christine Blasey Ford at a rally went too far and may have put Judge Brett Kavanaugh's nomination in additional peril The president used his podium in Mississippi to tell a crowd of 11,000 and a livestreaming and television audience of millions that Christine Blasey Ford's credibility fell apart when she told the Senate Judiciary Committee how little she could remember about an alleged event that she helped promote to epic proportions. 'How did you get home? "I don't remember." How did you get there? "I don't remember." Where is the place? "I don't remember." How many years ago was it? "I don't know. I don't know. I don't know",' he play-acted. What neighborhood was it in? "I don't know." Where's the house? "I don't know. Upstairs. Downstairs. I don't know. But I had one beer! That's the only thing I remember!"' he went on. By Wednesday morning, Trump's impression of Ford in her Thursday testimony had taken over the conversation. 'Theres no time and no place for remarks like that,' Flake told the 'Today' show on Wednesday, sitting beside Delaware Democratic Sen. Chris Coons. 'To discuss something this sensitive at a political rally is just not right. It's just not right. I wish he hadnt have done it. Ill just say, its kind of appalling.' Outside a hearing room a few hours later, Collins, a Maine Republican, said that 'the presidents comments were just plain wrong,' while Murkowsi, an Alaska Republican who is also a key swing vote, said, 'The president's comments yesterday mocking Dr. Ford were wholly inappropriate and in my view, unacceptable.' And Chuck Grassley, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee tweeted: 'I plead w all: stop personal attacks &destruction of Dr Ford &her family or Jdg Kavanaugh &family.' Final Senate floor votes from Flake, Collins and Murkowski are among just a few that stand in Kavanaugh's way; Flake set the FBI's wheels in motion last week by agreeing to a pause in the confirmation process while the customary background check was reopened and expanded. Flake's condemnation of Trump came as it emerged the FBI has not questioned Ford, despite mounting belief that the bureau is close to ending its background investigation into the nominee, with a vote promised this week by the Republican leadership on Kavanaugh's confirmation. There were also new questions over Ford's testimony, with a former boyfriend coming forward anonymously to claim she had not shown signs of claustrophobia or fear of flying, which she had claimed to suffer from, and that she had coached a friend in how to take a polygraph, which she had explicitly denied. Ford's friend then said in a statement that claims she had been coached by the accuser were untrue. U.S. Sen Jeff Flake (left), a frequent critic of Donald Trump, slammed him Wednesday morning alongside Democratic Sen. Chris Coons (right) for what he called the president's 'appalling' attacks on Christine Ford in a Tuesday night rally Trump mocked the sexual assault accuser of his Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh at a rally in Southaven, Misssissippi, drawing howls of laughter from 11,000 people over her failure to recall key details of the event she claims happened in 1982 Maine Republican Susan Collins on Wednesday called Trump's rally rant 'just plain wrong' and Lisa Murkowski said it was 'unacceptable'. Their votes are two one of five crucial swing votes of which Mitch McConnell needs at least two to get Kavanaugh confirmed Call for calm: Chuck Grassley, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, appealed to both sides to lower the invective No regrets: Trump continued his attack on the Democrats over Kavanaugh on Twitter Wednesday despite coming under fire for his mocking of Christine Ford Agents are known to have spoken to at least six people involved in the allegations. One of those is Mark Judge, the high school friend of Kavanaugh who was accused of being in the room when the nominee allegedly tried to rape Ford, while the other is Debbie Ramirez, the second accuser. They have also spoken to Patrick 'P.J.' Smyth and Leland Keyser, both of whom Ford said were present, and to Tim Gaudette, whose home Kavanaugh's calendars showed he partied at on July 1, 1982, under the term 'skis'. And they have spoken to 'Squi' or 'Squee,' real name Chris Garrett, who Ford said she dated and who Kavanaugh's calendar put at the July 1 party. In the Senate on Wednesday, Mitch McConnell, the Republican majority leader, again pledged to forge head with a vote 'this week,' despite increasing questions from Democrats over the scope of the FBI probe and the secrecy which will surround its conclusions, with only senators being allowed to see it. Democrats have demanded it is made public in its entirety and that they are briefed directly by the lead agent on its contents. WHO THE FBI ARE KNOWN TO HAVE QUESTIONED IN THE KAVANAUGH PROBE Accuser Debbie Ramirez She says Kavanaugh exposed himself during a dorm party in their freshman year at Yale. Her attorney says she gave a list of 20 potential witnesses to the FBI Kavanaugh friend Mark Judge Man who Christine Blasey Ford says was in the room when Kavanaugh tried to rape her. His attorney said his interview spread over Monday and Tuesday. Judge, a recovering alcoholic, has denied being present at any such event and said he believed his high school friend's innocence. He also denied claims that he and Kavanaugh spiked drinks with drugs and were present during third accuser Julie Swetnick's alleged gang rape Kavanaugh friend Tim Gaudette His house was the venue for a mid-week 'skis' (beers) party on July 1, 1982, according to Kavanaugh's calendars. Ford described a party with an almost identical list of attendees. His attorney confirmed an interview but did not say what Gaudette told agents. Kavanaugh friend P.J. Smyth He was named by Ford as being at the party downstairs when she was sexually assaulted, and featured on the July 1 'skis' night list of attendees. Has previously said he did not recall such an event. Kavanaugh friend Chris 'Squi' Garrett Has been named by Ford as someone she was dating in the summer of 1982, and is on the list of attendees of the 'skis' party. His attorney says he spoke to the FBI but did not disclose his evidence. Ford friend Leland Keyser Ford said her longtime friend was at the party where she alleges she was assaulted and was downstairs at the time. Has denied any memory of such an event but Ford said Leland sent a text message saying she believed her. Advertisement But it was Trump's derision for Kavanaugh's first accuser that commanded Republican and Democratic attention Wednesday morning. In a mock cross-examination at the rally in Southaven, Mississippi, Trump had played both interrogator and interviewee as his audience howled in approving laughter. Trump said congressional Democrats opposed to Kavanaugh's installation on America's highest court are 'evil people' out to 'destroy' the federal judge. 'A man's life is in tatters. A man's life is shattered,' he said. In testimony last week Ford conceded that her memory of 36 years ago is foggy and she can't recall many details of a night in 1982 when she claims Kavanaugh pinned her to a bed, groped and tried to undress her, and covered her mouth so she couldn't scream. But she said his laughter was 'indelible in the hippocampus' and Trump himself called her 'credible' last Friday. He was unrepentant on Twitter Wednesday, tweeting: 'I see it each time I go out to Rallies in order to help some of our great Republican candidates. 'VOTERS ARE REALLY ANGRY AT THE VICIOUS AND DESPICABLE WAY DEMOCRATS ARE TREATING BRETT KAVANAUGH! 'He and his wonderful family deserve much better.' Kavanaugh has flatly denied Ford's account in its entirety, drawing enthusiastic support from the president. Trump drew limited support Wednesday from Lindsey Graham, the South Carolina Republican senator, who said he didn't 'particularly like' President Trump's impression of Ford, but he thought it was accurate. 'Everything he said was factual. He's frustrated his nominee had been treated so bad,' he asserted. Graham said that he believes that Ford was treated respectfully in the hearing by Rachel Mitchell, the outside prosecutor, and he believes that women who say they were assaulted need to be heard. But he also said, in a conversation at The Atlantic Festival: 'Sometimes people are accused of something that they didn't do. So President Trump went through a factual rendition - that I didn't particularly like, and I would tell him knock it off. You're not helping. 'But it can be worse. You can actually kill someone's cat and puncture their tires to get them to shut up,' he said. The South Carolina was referencing alleged attacks on Katherine Willey and Juanita Broaddrick - two of former President Bill Clinton's accusers. Graham said the point is that 'we have come a long way' from the way that women who accused powerful men in 1998 were treated. 'I dont like what the president said last night. I am the first person to say I want to hear from Dr Ford. I thought she was handled respectfully,' he said. 'I thought that Kavanaugh was treated like crap.' The live audience booed. 'Well, boo yourself,' he responded, angrily. 'I really believe that Brett Kavanaugh is not a gang-rapist, a sexual predator or a stumbling-bumbling drunk. I don't care if you believe him, because I've known him for 20 years.' Graham had forcefully defended Kavanaugh at his testimony, calling it 'the most unethical, sham since I've been in politics.' Flake said Friday morning that he would take fellow Republicans' side and vote for Kavanaugh. At the last minute, however, he said he'd withhold his support in the final vote until after the FBI had conducted a probe. The Arizona senator buckled under pressure from Democrats and endorsed a plan to let the FBI reopen its background check into Kavanaugh's past, a process that was supposed to last a week and could conclude in the next 48 hours. 'Even if no votes are changed in the end,' Flake said, 'to have a pause here and to actually have an FBI investigation gives us all more confidence in the process and that's important.' McConnell reiterated Wednesday on the the Senate floor that there will be a Kavanaugh confirmation vote this week, regardless of what the FBI says or does. 'The Senate will vote on this nomination this week,' he said. Repeating his message in case it wasn't clear, he asserted a second time: 'The Senate will vote on this nomination this week.' The top senator's double-down on Trumps nominee came amid uncertainty about the timing of the FBI investigation. It remains unclear when the bureau will finish its probe and when senators will see the results. McConnell took to the Senate floor Wednesday morning to rail against the delays in confirming Kavanaugh, including protestors who have confronted senators, and Democrats, who he claims are moving the goalposts on Trump's nominee. He made it clear that the protesters chasing lawmakers through the hallways and out of Washington D.C. restaurants will not intimidate senators into changing their votes. 'I want to make it clear to these people who are chasing my members down the hall here, or harassing them at the airport or going to their homes, we will not be intimidated by these people,' he said. Christine Blasey Ford testified last week before the Senate Judiciary Committee but Brett Kavanaugh's flat denials of her sex assault allegations have gained the president's enthusiastic backing Trump lavished in praise Tuesday night during a Mississippi rally but got an earful later on Twitter from Hollywood celebrities and other liberal activists who detest him 'The Senate will vote on this nomination this week,' Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said in a floor speech Wednesday. Presidential adviser Kellyanne Conway told reporters at the White House that Ford has 'been treated like a Faberge egg' Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called on McConnell to hold an all-senators briefing with the FBI agents investigating Kavanaugh and repeated Democrats call to make the findings public. He also said Trump owed Ford an immediate apology for his rally speech. 'President Trumps outright mockery of a sexual assault survivor, he said, was reprehensible, beneath the office of the presidency, and beneath common decency from one person to another.' Channeling Flake, in an afternoon statement Sen. Dianne Feinstein also called Trump's imitation of Ford 'appalling' and 'cruel' especially in light of her testimony that Kavanaugh and his friend Mark Judge were laughing as they attempted to rape her. 'He sent a clear message to victims of sexual assault that they should not be believed,' Feinstein, the ranking Senate Judiciary Democrat, said. Presidential adviser Kellyanne Conway told reporters at the White House that Ford has 'been treated like a Faberge egg by all of us, beginning with me and the president' and said Trump was merely 'pointing out factual inconsistencies' in Ford's testimony. Sanders said the same thing during a mid-afternoon press briefing where she griped that Kavanuagh's testimony had been picked apart by the left, yet the president has come under scrutiny for ripping into Ford. 'This entire process has been a disgrace,' she said. 'And the only reason that it's been that way is because Senate Democrats didn't do this the way that it should have been done, and they circumvented the entire system, and frankly they've undermined our entire judicial branch by the way that they've acted.' A fresh, possible inconsistency also emerged when an ex-boyfriend of Ford came forward to contradict her testimony that she was claustrophobic and had trouble flying as a result of her alleged assault. The mystery ex says he lived with Ford for a time and dated her for a period of six years until he found out that she had been unfaithful. He also says he witnessed her coach a friend on passing a lie detector test during that time. Ford denied under oath that she had ever done anything like that. 'Never,' she told senators as she testified last week against Supreme Court Justice nominee Kavanaugh, her alleged attacker. Ford claimed in testimony that she had not had 'any discussions with anyone ... on how to take a polygraph' and had not 'given any tips or advice to anyone who was looking to take a polygraph test' before taking her own lie detector test in August. She also claimed at the hearing that she had 'PTSD-like' symptoms from the alleged attack in the '80s that makes it hard for her to muster the courage to fly on airplanes. Grassley, the Republican head of the Senate Judiciary Committee, sent a seething letter to Ford's attorneys on Tuesday evening accusing the sexual assault accuser's lawyers of withholding critical information from the U.S. Senate in response to the latest round of he said, she said. Grassley, demanded Ford's therapy notes and suggested that she intentionally misled lawmakers in her Thursday testimony. Ford says she talked about the alleged incident involving Kavanaugh with her therapist but has not provided proof to senators, Grassley indicated. 'Your continued withholding of material evidence despite multiple requests is unacceptable as the Senate exercises its constitutional responsibility of advice and consent for a judicial nomination,' he wrote, according to Fox News. On Wednesday morning a woman who says she was the polygraph taker Ford is accused of coaching came forward to deny that it took place. Monica McLean made a statement through Ford's legal team which said: 'I have never had Christine Blasey Ford, or anybody else, prepare me, or provide any other type of assistance whatsoever in connection with any polygraph exam I have taken at anytime.' Alyssa Milano, who came forward as the victim of a sex assault last week and sat behind Christine Blasey Ford as she testified to the Senate, hit Trump on Twitter Michael Bromwich, one of the lawyers who sat alongside Ford as she testified, disparaged Trump's speech as 'a vicious, vile and soulless attack' Former White House press secretary Ari Fleischer was among those defending Trump for 'pointing out the inconsistencies' in Ford's account President Trump was not scheduled to appear in public on Wednesday, after raucous news conferences at the White House on Monday and Tuesday during the day followed by news-making rallies each night. His next public appearance was to be rally on Thursday in Minnesota where he would rally the base again ahead of the midterms. Twitter lit up Tuesday night after Trump's rally last and his direct attack on Ford. Actress Alyssa Milano, who came forward as a sex assault victim last week and sat behind Ford during Thursday's hearing, led a wave of outrage as Kavanaugh opponents denounced the president. Writing to Donald Trump Jr, Milano said: 'Your father is an a**hole. This is the most misogynist display of barbaric insensitivity that I've ever seen. This is why I didn't report [my abuse]. This right here. Women are watching. And we vote.' Also venting his anger online was Michael Bromwich, a lawyer who sat alongside Ford during her testimony and also represents Trump antagonist Andrew McCabe, a former deputy FBI director. 'A vicious, vile and soulless attack on Dr Christine Blasey Ford. Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well?' Browmich tweeted. 'She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice.' Trump's supporters defended him for 'pointing out inconsistencies' in Ford's account. Ari Fleischer, a White House press secretary during the George W. Bush administration, also lined up behind Trump. He wrote: 'He didnt mock Professor Ford. He pointed out many of the inconsistencies in her account something the MSM [mainstream media] wont do, because theyre too invested in attacking Brett Kavanaugh. If the press were balanced, they would have raised the same issues Pres. [Trump] raised here.' Bill Baldwin called Trump's comments the 'death of shame [and] compassion' while predicting Republican women will desert the party David Simon, former journalist and creator of 'The Wire,' called Trump and his supporters 'pigs in s***' Star Trek actor Geroge Takei said the country should be 'ashamed' of Trump Liberal activist and former Star Trek actor Geroge Takei said Americans should be 'ashamed' of the president. Billy Baldwin called his comments 'the death of shame.' David Simon, a television writer who created 'The Wire,' described Trump as a 'pig' and ripped into conservatives who laughed along with him. 'The trolls who are about to reply to this message by smearing her further? Pigs,' he added. 'None are worth the good profanity. Just pigs in s****.' Fred Guttenberg, the father of a teenage boy killed during last year's shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas high school in Florida, wrote that Trump 'mocks this great country and the Republican party continues to let it happen.' 'This election must result in the return of divided and accountable government.' Trump was speaking in support of incumbent U.S. senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (pictured) and Roger Wicker, both of whom face election tests in November A handwritten letter from Kavanaugh was meanwhile discovered that cast fresh doubt onto his own claims that while he liked to drink beer and party in high school and college he had never been a blackout drunk. Kavanaugh described his high school friends as a 'group of obnoxious drunks' in the letter written ahead of a week of partying in a Maryland condo. He made the remark in a handwritten letter to seven of his Georgetown Prep classmates in 1983 as they descended on a property in Ocean City for 'Beach Week'. The letter mostly gives instructions for those arriving at the condo ahead of him, but also includes several off-the-cuff remarks that have taken on new significance after he was accused of assaulting multiple women while drunk. 'Warn the neighbors that we're loud, obnoxious drunks with prolific pukers among us': 'Beach Week' letter written by Brett Kavanaugh to his friends in 1983 surfaces The existence of the letter was uncovered by the New York Times, which printed two photocopied pages of it on Tuesday. In it, Kavanaugh expresses his fear that his group of friends could be kicked out of the pad they had rented to host their raucous celebrations. He makes it clear that limits will have to be placed on other boys coming along from school, saying: 'We might have to give the boot or else we might get it ourselves.' But, as far as women are concerned, his says: 'I think we are unanimous that any girls we can beg to stay there are welcomed with open... Anyway, I think we're all set.' A section of the letter Kavanaugh wrote to seven of his Georgetown Prep classmates in 1983 as they descended on a property in Ocean City for 'Beach Week', including a suggestion the neighbors should be warned of 'loud, obnoxious drunks' heading their way He the adds: 'Remember that the eight of us are in charge - we get the beds and we kick people out - no one else. 'The danger of eviction is great and that would suck because of the money and because this week has big potential (interpret as [you] wish.)' In a post-script, he says: 'It would probably be a good idea on Saturday the 18th to warn the neighbors that we're loud, obnoxious drunks with prolific pukers among us. Advise them to go about 30 miles.' The Times contacted Kavanaugh about the letter, who confirmed that he wrote it ahead of 'Beach Week' in the summer of 1983, but refused to comment further. The letter has the initials 'PJ' at the top, likely a reference to Patrick J. Smyth, a friend from high school who remains close to Kavanaugh to this day. It is not known exactly who the other seven recipients are, though it likely included Mark Judge, another friend from high school who has been accused of being present when Kavanaugh carried out his alleged assaults at similar events. It is also significant that the letter is signed 'Bart,' a name that Judge has used in his memoirs to describe a hard-drinking friend loosely based on Kavanaugh. Kavanaugh is pictured standing second right in a photograph taken on the beach with seven of his Georgetown classmates, though it is not clear if this vacation is the same as the one mentioned in his letter Judge wrote that a friend by the name of Bart O'Kavanaugh had once 'puked in someone's car' and 'passed out on his way back from a party' while describing a culture of 'blackout drinking' at high school. Senators grilled Kavanaugh over the name when he came before the committee and he claimed he didn't know who Judge was referring to. That makes the letter problematic for Kavanaugh, who told Sen. Amy Klobuchar during his hearing that he had never drunk so much he forgot part or all of what happened the night before. In a testy exchange, Kavanaugh asked Klobuchar whether she had ever blacked out due to drinking, to which she replied: 'I have no drinking problem, judge.' He responded: 'Yeah, nor do I.' An environmental activist who was deceived into a relationship by an undercover officer today blasted the 'very personal betrayal' as she prepared for the next stage of her human rights claim against the Metropolitan Police. Kate Wilson, who met Mark Stone at a campaign event in 2003 and went out with him for two years, told Good Morning Britain the shocking realisation she had been tricked left her racked with self-doubt. 'It affects all your memories. You can no longer trust who you are,' she said. 'I am now aware of six other people who I've known in other aspects of my life who were also undercover officers. These operations were massive.' Kate Wilson, (right) who met Mark Stone (left) at a campaign event in 2003 and went out with him for two years, told Good Morning Britain the shocking realisation she had been tricked left her racked with self-doubt Ms Wilson's case against the Metropolitan Police will be heard by the Investigatory Powers Tribunal today. She claims police violated her human rights and wants to ensure similar methods are never used again. Describing Mr Stone at their first meeting at a social centre in Nottingham, she told Susanna Reid and Ben Shephard: 'He was charming, he was funny. 'He claimed to be from a neighbourhood where I grew up, he claimed to like the same sort of music I like and share a lot of interests. 'These police are trained to mirror, to make you feel like they share your interests, and to make you feel like you have things in common, it's a form of very conscious manipulation they use to get into your lives.' Ms Wilson last saw Mr Stone in August 2010, and two months later she received a phone call in which she was told he was really an undercover policeman called Mark Kennedy. In her case, Mr Stone was backed up by a team of several other agents who directed his operations. Ms Wilson's case against the Metropolitan Police will be heard by the Investigatory Powers Tribunal today 'There were people following us around; there were people making decisions about whether he would visit my parents that weekend or not, whether he would live with me,' she said. Ms Wilson asked the police to finally come clean about how much they knew about her case. 'Mark Stone' is pictured while still undercover at an unknown date and location 'What we want to know is how high up did that go? I believe these relationships were used as a tactic. I believe they used women as a tool in their undercover operation. 'The police have now said after eight years of suggesting these were rogue officers and that it was a problem of supervisions, they have now said the managers knew about and acquiesced to the relationships taking place. 'I want the IPT to get to the truth. Up until now, not one of these relationship cases has been investigated by anyone outside the police.' She said it was very difficult to now trust people and that the case had cast a long shadow. 'I sincerely hope to be able to move on. I don't think I will ever get past what happened and the effects it has on your ability to trust and your relationships.' The Met Police said they could not comment on the allegations because of ongoing legal considerations, but they earlier issued an apology to women deceived into relationships with undercover officers. The case is being heard by the IPT today. It is thought the tribunal - which looks into the use of intelligence and surveillance by the government, police and security services, will take weeks or even months to reach an outcome. Farooq Sattar indicted in a 31-year-old case Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) leader Farooq Sattar was indicted by a city court in a 31-year-old case pertaining to violation of the Loudspeaker Act on Wednesday. Sattar pleaded not guilty to the charges. Separately, Sattar, Karachi Mayor Waseem Akhtar, Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Haider Abbas Rizvi and other MQM leaders were indicted by a city court in a 2015 case pertaining to Loudspeaker Act violation. All accused pleaded not guilty to the charges. The first case was registered after a party workers gathering in PIB Colony on June 27, 1987. According to the FIR, MQM leader Mohammad Shahid organised a programme wherein MQM chief Altaf Hussain, general secretary Azeem Tariq and Farooq Sattar were present along with 600-700 participants. "Altaf Hussain criticised an Urdu newspaper and announced to boycott the publication over the loudspeaker," stated the FIR, adding it was seen that armed bodyguards were also present in the meeting. A case under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code, Sections 2/3 of the Loudspeaker Act read with Section 13-D of the Arms Ordinance was registered at the New Town police station. Sattar had in June 2018 obtained interim bail from a district court in the case. The second case was registered against nine MQM leaders in 2015 after the party held a protest rally against the arrests of workers and Rangers raids at party offices. The rally began at Karachi's Liaquatabad area and was to culminate at the Rangers Headquarters located near Sindh Assembly, but police stopped the participants near Numaish Chowrangi. Cases were registered against Sattar, Rizvi, Nasreen Jalil, Wasay Jalil, Faisal Sabzwari, Siddiqui, Akhtar and others for violation of the Loudspeaker Act and Section 144 of the Pakistan Penal Code, and 'harassing commuters' during the rally. The FIR stated that 1,500 to 2,000 workers of the MQM gathered at MA Jinnah Road to protest against the government, during which the Loudspeaker Act was violated as party leaders made speeches. Natasha Ednan-Laperouse fell ill on a flight to Nice after eating a Pret A Manger sandwich The shattered parents of a girl who died of an allergic reaction to a Pret A Manger sandwich have asked to meet the chain's bosses. Natasha Ednan-Laperouse from Fulham, west London, collapsed on board a flight to Nice in July 2016 after eating an artichoke, olive and tapenade baguette she had bought from Pret in Heathrow Airport. The packaging did not say the sandwich contained sesame seeds which she was allergic to. Pret A Manger today insisted that full ingredient labelling, including allergens, will be introduced to all products that are freshly made in its shop kitchens. Natasha's parents Nadim and Tanya Ednan-Laperouse said: 'We cautiously welcome the decision by Pret a Manger, and we hope this will quickly lead to improved labelling across all their stores. 'Pret says it has recognised there is much more it can do, we agree. We will be inviting them to meet with us to outline how we think they can contribute to genuinely meaningful change. 'We would like to thank the public and the media for all their ongoing incredible support. Pret said it will start trialling full ingredient labelling on product packaging from next month, adding that this will be rolled out to all UK shops as quickly as possible. Pret chief executive Clive Schlee said: 'I want to say again how deeply sorry we are for the loss of Natasha. I said we would learn from this tragedy and ensure meaningful changes happen. 'I hope these measures set us on course to drive change in the industry so people with allergies are as protected and informed as possible. Nothing is more important to Pret right now.' Natasha suffered an allergic reaction to a sandwich from this Pret outlet at London Heathrow Nadim and Tanya Ednan-Laperouse with their son Alex outside West London Coroner's Court Natalie's parents Tanya and Nadim (pictured on ITV) want a change in the law to save lives Jill Paterson of law firm Leigh Day, which is representing the family, said: 'The decision by Pret a Manger concerning labelling on all their products is to be welcomed, but deeds mean more than words. 'We will be working closely with our clients to arrange a lasting legacy for Natasha, not just new legislation but also meaningful change for all people with allergies.' The coroner at Natasha's inquest last week said she died of anaphylaxis after eating the Pret sandwich containing sesame, which she was allergic to. Her father said she died because of 'inadequate food labelling laws', and joined the rest of her family in calling for a change in the law to save lives. Environment Secretary Michael Gove said he had told civil servants to investigate a law change after the death highlighted the 'importance of acting urgently'. Natasha collapsed after eating an artichoke, olive and tapenade baguette at Pret (file picture) He said: 'I think their case is compelling and we need to act quickly in order to ensure that we have the best possible protection in place.' Nothing is more important to Pret right now Pret chief executive Clive Schlee And Prime Minister Theresa May has said the Government will look at companies' responsibilities in relation to food labelling. Earlier this week Natasha's grieving parents revealed were comforted by the Duchess of York as they flew their daughter's body to Britain. Mrs Ednan-Laperouse said fellow British Airways passenger Sarah Ferguson approached them on the plane carrying their daughter's coffin. A 30-year-old British man has been killed in Japan, after he was hit by two separate cars in a double hit-and-run accident near Tokyo. Andrew McEwan Grant was hit by a car crossing a road in Ina, Saitama Prefecture, after which a second car going in the opposite direction ran over him. Neither vehicle stopped. Mr Grant, reportedly a pastry chef living in Saitama City, was rushed to a nearby hospital, but was declared dead on arrival by doctors. Tragedy: British expat Andrew McEwan Grant, 30, died following a double hit-and-run accident in Ina, Saitama Prefecture, Japan The driver of the second car to hit him later called police to admit she had been involved. Hikaru Tanishima, 25, reportedly told cops: 'I might have run someone over. I became scared and fled.' Police had earlier arrested a male driver, Matsubara Eiichiro, 54, from the city of Sayama, Saitama Prefecture. He was allegedly driving the first vehicle to hit the Briton, while Ms Tanashima was driving the second vehicle, police said. Both face charges of causing death by negligent driving. The police investigation into the accident continues. Ina, which lies close to the capital city of Tokyo, is an agricultural town famous for its roses, Japanese pears and Kyoho grapes. A UK Foreign Office spokesperson said: 'Our consular staff are supporting the family of a British man following his death in Japan, and are in contact with the Japanese authorities about the incident.' A man has been convicted for murdering a prominent New Jersey radio show host as part of an alleged plot to prevent her from exposing a drug ring. Jurors deliberated for just two hours Tuesday before agreeing to convict Ferdinand 'Freddy' Augello of murder, conspiracy, racketeering and other counts in the 2012 shooting of April Kauffman. Atlantic County prosecutors say Augello, who was also known as 'Miserable' and the woman's husband, Dr. James Kauffman, wanted to stop her from exposing a drug ring allegedly run by the doctor and a motorcycle gang. Ferdinand 'Freddy' Augello, who is the last surviving defendant in the murder case of New Jersey radio host April Kauffman Ferdinand Augello appears in court in Mays Landing, New Jersey on Tuesday, October 2. Jurors deliberated for two hours Tuesday before convicting Augello of murder, conspiracy, racketeering and other counts in the 2012 shooting of April Kauffman The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Chief Assistant Prosecutor Seth Levy told jurors that Augello received 300 calls from a burner phone used by Jim Kauffman in the months before April's murder. These calls, Levy said, stopped the day before April was shot to death in her bedroom in Linwood, New Jersey. Augello's ex-wife, Beverly, said she picked up his alleged payment inside an envelope labelled 'Fred' from Kauffman's office the day of the murder. Kimberley Pack, daughter of April Kauffman, reacts after a jury found Ferdinand Augello guilty in court 'April Kauffman, grandmother, friend, champion for veterans' rights, murdered in her bed,' Levy said. 'And yes, this defendant was absolutely responsible for that. 'When you move the pawns out of the way, all you have staring back at you is "Freddy crime wave", "Miserable" Ferdinand Augello,' Levy said. 'The leader of a racketeering organization, hands dripping red with the blood of April Kauffman.' Defense attorney Mary Linehan questioned the reliability of the state's witnesses, including paid witness Andrew Glick, a former gang official turned informant. Ferdinand Augello said: 'This is for the media: I did not kill Mrs. Kauffman, nor did I pay anyone to kill Mrs. Kauffman' Linehan says the state's evidence points to Glick as the perpetrator and called the state's case 'prosecution by multiple choice'. Augello was said to be unmoved during the reading of the verdict, but as he was led away, he addressed the media, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported. 'This is for the media: I did not kill Mrs. Kauffman, nor did I pay anyone to kill Mrs. Kauffman,' he is quoted as saying. Augello, a former president of the New Jersey Shore Pagan's Outlaw Motorcycle Club, blamed Joseph Mulholland. Francis Hulholland (left) and Dr James Kauffman (right), the other two defendants in the trial, are both now deceased Mulholland, also a member of the motorcycle club, admitted driving the gunman, Francis Mulholland, to the Kauffman residence where the door was left open and April Kauffman was asleep in her bedroom. Mulholland, an opioid addict, died of an overdose a year after the murder. On January 26 2018, Kauffman, 68, was found dead in his cell at 9.20am in what authorities termed an apparent suicide at the county jail in Kearney. According to NJ.com, Kauffman suffocated himself and a six-page suicide note was discovered. He was not on suicide watch. Kauffman had long maintained his innocence, a stance his attorney, Louis Barbone, repeated just weeks before his death. Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon Tyner said on Tuesday: 'Ultimately Dr. Kauffman was tried by a higher jury. 'It cost him his life. He couldn't live with the weight of the evidence that would have been presented against him on this date. 'I don't think much of Jim Kauffman,' Tyner said. 'I think of the victim, April Kauffman, all the family members that were affected by his actions. I think of his role in flooding the market with Oxycodone. 'His legacy is all of the tragedy he left behind, the lives that were lost, and the people who were affected by his mispractice of medicine.' In June, Kauffman's daughter Kimberley spoke about her mother's death, six months after her stepfather died. Kimberley Pack talked about the moment she found out her mother was dead and the brutal accusation she made to police moments later. When Pack received the phone call her mother was dead, she raced to her home on Woodland Drive in Linwood, New Jersey. When she was told by police April had not died by natural causes she told ABC she immediately knew who was behind it. 'Well,' Pack told the cop, 'you can go right over there, because that's the person that killed my mom.' Pack says she knew from the very start her stepfather, a respected endocrinologist in the Atlantic County area, was behind her mother's murder. Pack says the second she arrived at her mother's home in New Jersey, she told the police her stepfather, respected local doctor Jim Kauffman, was behind the murder Kauffman (left) and April (right) met while Pack was still in high school and married a year later April and Kauffman met while Pack was still in high school. They married a year later, and the radio host seemed happy with her life and her new husband, Pack said. Her daughter said she was initially happy for her mother, who had been unlucky in love, and hoped this time would be different for the radio host. 'She did struggle in love because maybe she was looking for the wrong things,' Pack told ABC. 'I think she deserved love I was hoping Jim Kauffman would make her happy.' But later on into their relationship, April discovered that Kauffman's tales of his time in the military, his Green Beret and serving in Vietnam were lies. Devastated, and perhaps feeling duped, she wanted out. But when she gave Kauffman an ultimatum, threatening to out him as a liar if he did not let her leave, he threatened her right back. Pack says her mother told her his response to her threats was: 'If you tell anybody, I will go nuclear on Kimberly and the children'. Police work the scene of the fatal shooting of April Kauffman, a local radio talk show host, businesswoman and community volunteer found dead in her Linwood, N.J. home in May 2012 Kauffman may have been more concerned about being outed over the alleged opioid drug ring he ran with the local Pagan biker group. When she asked her mother what 'go nuclear' meant, April told Pack not to worry. 'Don't worry, he doesn't have the balls to do anything,' she told her daughter. While Kauffman perhaps didn't have the balls to do anything, police say he knew a lot of people who did. Kauffman had allegedly been distributing OxyContin to the Pagan Motorcycle Club, and prosecutors allege he 'propositioned a number of individuals to murder April Kauffman', including Francis Mulholland. On the morning of May 10, 2012, authorities say Mulholland was given a gun and at least $20,000 in cash to carry out the murder. Kauffman was arrested in the summer of 2017 following an armed standoff with police at his medical practice, five years after the murder. He was charged with murder in addition to racketeering related to the illegal distribution of narcotics through his former medical practice. Authorities said he brandished a handgun as agents executed a search warrant and said, 'I'm not going to jail for this!' A hostage negotiator soon persuaded him to surrender. On the last day of the trial, Pack sat in the front row and cried as the final verdict was read out in a case which went unsolved for almost six years. At trial, testimony showed that the gunman left the Kauffman residence and took the Linwood bike path after murdering April. The gun was never found. This is the moment a whirlwind tears through a busy beach - sending umbrellas and deckchairs flying. Startling footage shows sunbathers running for cover as the vortex hits land at the seaside resort of Kas in Antalya Province, southwestern Turkey. Swimmers watch in horror as it approaches the private beach, which is part of a hotel, and sends objects shooting in all directions. Deckchair cushions and umbrellas can be seen flying dangerously high into the air after being whipped up by the powerful gusts. The person recording the video hides under a fallen parasol to avoid getting hit. The whirlwind began about two kilometres from the shore then edged closer while increasing in size and strength. It is thought to have changed direction shortly after throwing the beach furniture into the air. The vortex hits land at the seaside resort of Kas in Antalya Province, southwestern Turkey, sending umbrellas deckchairs flying The whirlwind began about two kilometres from the shore then edged closer while increasing in size and strength The Meteorology General Directorate in Turkey had warned beachgoers in the area of the risk of strong winds and rain. No injuries have been reported. Body camera footage has been released by police showing the moment an officer arrives at a Baltimore street to find a man dead and his colleague injured after a shootout. The video from the camera worn by officer Steven Foster captures the end of an exchange of gunfire in which his fellow officer Phillip Lippe was wounded and a man, identified as 29-year-old Nathaniel Sassafras, was killed. It is not clear how the confrontation between Officer Lippe and Sassafras started, or who fired the first shots. Officer Phillip Lippe was shot by 29-year-old Nathaniel Sassafras, police said. Lippe was hit three times; in his arm and in the bullet proof vest he wor Interim Police Commissioner Gary Tuggle said only that the police officers were in Poppleton as a routine part of a new push to suppress violent crime, having stepped up their presence in the city. 'We have taken extra steps with extra personnel to address the violence. 'This was part of the initiative,' Tuggle said, adding that Sassafras was not someone they were specifically targeting. The gunfire erupted at around 6.30pm and lasted until just before 7pm in the area of 800 block of Vine Street and Fremont Avenuel, in the west Baltimore neighborhood of Poppleton The gunfire erupted at around 6.30pm on Sunday September 23 and lasted until just before 7pm in the area of 800 block of Vine Street and Fremont Avenuel, in the west Baltimore neighborhood of Poppleton. In the bodycam video, Foster speeds towards the scene and when he arrives the suspect is down and Lippe has been hit three times; in his arm and in the bullet proof vest he wore, WBALTV reported. Authorities also released photos of the gun used by Sassafras and Lippe's damaged body-worn camera, which was beyond repair. Officer Steven Foster tries to help fellow officer Phillip Lippe who has just been wounded in a shootout with a suspect 'The suspect who shot the officer was fatally wounded,' Tuggle said. Lippe suffered non life-threatening gunshot wounds and was released from hospital on Monday. The Baltimore City Fraternal Order of Police said the officer is in good spirits. Both officers were wearing activated body cameras, but Lippe's camera was shot and its footage irretrievable. At one point during the footage one of the officers can be heard saying 'cameras off'. It is unclear whether he meant they are off, or whether they should be turned off. The body camera worn by three-year police veteran Officer Lippe's was shot and its footage irretrievable The gun recovered from suspect Nathaniel Sassafras, who was out on parole while serving time for second-degree murder, use of handgun in crime of violence and second-degree assault Nathaniel Sassafras was serving 20 years from June 2004 for second-degree murder, 5 years concurrent for use of handgun in crime of violence and 1 year and 1 day for second-degree assault, police said. He was on parole since January 18, having the mandatory amount of time, which in Maryland is at least half the sentence. Sassafras had served 13 and a half years, which exceeded that, officials said. The Police Department held the scene for incident investigation, and the crime scene was released around 7am. Advertisement Theresa May held out the promise of ending a decade of austerity today - but warned it can only happen if hardline Tories give up on their demands for a 'perfect' Brexit. In a bid to quell a mounting revolt, the PM used a crucial speech to party conference promise she would not betray the referendum result, and said she was not afraid' to leave the EU with no deal if it refused to compromise. But she also appealed for activists and hardline MPs to accept they would not get everything they wanted - warning that failure to unify could mean ending up with 'no Brexit'. The tough message - which Cabinet allies claimed had staved off threats to her job - came as Mrs May delivered her keynote address after a fractious week in Birmingham dominated by rows about Brexit and Boris Johnson's leadership ambitions. Mrs May took a series of swipes at her bitter rival, taking particular aim at his 'f*** business' response when being told about firms' anxieties at a private meeting. Theresa May danced on to stage at Tory conference today and was cheered to the rafters by activists as she made light of her own political woes But in a sign that her position is still weak, Mrs May did not mention her 'Chequers' plan for Brexit once during the entire speech. MailOnline revealed yesterday that Cabinet ministers have been urging her to rebrand the plan as the term had become toxic with party members. Instead, she tried to show she has a positive vision of the country's future to match that of her bitter rival. The premier pointed to a new 'global' immigration system, crackdown on property investors from abroad, and fuel duty freeze as evidence that she can make the country work for ordinary people. And she held out the prize of an end to austerity if she was able to push through Brexit and implement her policies. One Cabinet Brexiteer said they believed Mrs May had won herself some time with the strong performance. 'I really liked it,' they said. Another told PoliticsHome: 'She won't be going out without a fight.' Mrs May also demonstrated a rarely-seen sense of humour by boogying on stage to 'Dancing Queen' by Abba, emulating her famous moves from a trip to Africa over the summer. In a reference to last year's conference debacle when letters fell off the set behind her, she then joked that she had been up late sticking the backdrop together with superglue. As 'Dancing Queen' by Abba played, Mrs May emulated her famous dance moves from a trip to Africa last month and received rapturous applause from the party faithful. But not everyone was pleased with her showing. Tory MP Andrew Bridgen, a long-standing critic, said: 'It's no good just dropping the word Chequers from the speech but continuing with the policy, this is why the public have such scant trust in politics and politicians. 'The PM announced the end of austerity, but unfortunately not the end of Chequers.' The prime minister warned Tories there is no 'perfect Brexit' earlier today when she made a desperate appeal for the party to unite behind her Chequers plan. After a gathering in Birmingham marred by civil war over her Brexit blueprint, the PM urged activists to put aside their differences - saying failure to do so risked hard-Left Labour seizing power and the process of leaving the EU being stopped altogether. But she also delivered a stark warning to Brussels that the UK is 'not afraid' to leave without a deal if it does not compromise. Trying to show she has a positive vision of the country's future to match that of her bitter rival, she pointed to a new 'global' immigration system, crackdown on property investors from abroad, and fuel duty freeze as evidence that she can make the country work for ordinary people - adding that it was time for austerity to end. A Cabinet source told MailOnline the speech 'was a very strong statement of mainstream Conservative values', adding: Where others may seek to divide, she set out a vision to unite both party and country. She has done the job for now. Mrs May also demonstrated a rarely-seen sense of humour by boogying on stage to 'Dancing Queen' by Abba, emulating her famous moves from a trip to Africa over the summer. In a reference to last year's conference debacle when letters fell off the set behind her, she then joked that she had been up late sticking the backdrop together with superglue. In a reference to last year's conference debacle when letters fell of the set behind her, she then joked that she had been up late sticking the backdrop together with superglue The hall in Birmingham was jam-packed for Mrs May's big moment today, which had the theme of 'opportunity' Without using the word 'Chequers' once, Mrs May pleaded with activists to get behind her on Brexit, insisting she would 'never betray' the referendum result and saying her proposals are the only way to keep the UK together and protect jobs. Saying Tories had to 'face up to what is at risk', she told the crowd that many people wanted to reverse the result of the referendum and Labour were exploiting Brexit to seize power. 'We have had disagreements in this party about Britain's membership of the EU for a long time,' Mrs May admitted. 'So, it is no surprise that we have had a range of different views expressed this week. Corbyn has destroyed the Labour Party and must be stopped from hurting Britain, May warns Jeremy Corbyn has destroyed the Labour Party and replaced it with a new one in his own image, Theresa May warned today. The Prime Minister launched a furious attack on the Labour leader for seizing control of the party of Clement Attlee and Neil Kinnock. She said in the Commons moderate Labour MPs stared 'blankly' from the backbenches with the new party monopolising the front bench. She said: 'What has befallen Labour is a national tragedy. 'What has it come to when Jewish families today seriously discuss where they should go if Jeremy Corbyn becomes prime minister? 'When a leading Labour MP says his party is 'institutionally racist'? 'When the leader of the Labour Party is happy to appear on Iranian state TV but attacks our free media here in Britain? 'That is what Jeremy Corbyn has done to the Labour Party. It is our duty, in this Conservative Party, to make sure he can never do it to our country.' Later in the speech in a section on Russia and national security, Mrs May said Mr Corbyn 'poses as a humanitarian' but says action can only be taken if backed by Security Council. She warned: 'We cannot outsource our conscience to the Kremlin' Advertisement 'But my job as Prime Minister is to do what I believe is in the national interest.' She added: 'Those of us who do respect the result whichever side of the question we stood on two years ago need to come together now. 'If we don't if we all go off in different directions in pursuit of our own visions of the perfect Brexit we risk ending up with no Brexit at all.' But the premier also delivered a stark warning to Brussels that the UK will leave without a deal if it does not compromise. 'No one wants a good deal more than me. But that has never meant getting a deal at any cost,' she said. 'Britain isn't afraid to leave with no deal if we have to.' She warned that crashing out without a deal would mean introducing tariffs and costly checks at the border. MailOnline revealed earlier this week that Cabinet ministers have been urging her to 'rebrand' her plan, and stop using the term 'Chequers' as it is tainted in the minds of activists. But No10 aides played down the signifance of the omission today. 'There are various terms that can be used and Chequers is one,' an aide said. 'She has used it many times in the past and she will do so again in future.' The PM also announced that austerity will end after she has delivered Brexit as she insisted the Tories can spell out a positive domestic agenda and not just rein in spending. Mrs May has been heavily criticised by her own MPs for failing to come up with new domestic policies or the money needed to properly find schools, hospitals and local councils. But in a radical departure, she said the spending taps would be turned back on after Brexit as 'after a decade of austerity, people need to know that their hard work has paid off. She said: 'We are not just a party to clean up a mess, we are a party to steer a course to a better future. 'Sound finances are essential, but they are not the limit of our ambition. Because you made sacrifices, there are better days ahead. 'So, when we've secured a good Brexit deal for Britain, at the spending review next year we will set out our approach to the future. 'Debt as a share of the economy will continue to go down, support for public services will go up. 'Because, a decade after the financial crash, people need to know that the austerity it led to is over and that their hard work has paid off.' In a pitch to younger voters, Mrs May renewed her determination to tackle the housing crisis. She said councils would be given the green light to borrow more money to build affordable housing. Mrs May's speech was a make-or-break moment as she faces a huge revolt from Eurosceptics over her Brexit plan Mrs May showed off her rarely-seen sense of humour today as she boogied, to the delight of Tory members in the hall A clearly relieved PM was embraced by husband Philip after she made it to the end of her speech without losing her voice - as had happened last year Mrs May had another cold for her speech today - but battled on despite having occasional scares where she needed to clear her throat The audience was on tenterhooks to hear how she would react to the unwelcome intervention from Mr Johnson at a conference fringe event yesterday The PM said local authorities would no longer be capped on how much they can borrow against their Housing Revenue Account assets effectively leveraging current council homes to free up cash to build more. She told the conference: 'Solving the housing crisis is the biggest domestic policy challenge of our generation. 'It doesn't make sense to stop councils from playing their part in solving it. What policies and announcements did Theresa May and the Tories make at their 2018 conference? Here are the main announcements made by Theresa May at her Conservative Party conference: Immigration: In the biggest overhaul of the system in decades, the Tories said they will end EU free movement after Brexit and bring in a new skills-based system. From January 2021, European immigrants will be treated the same as immigrants from elsewhere. European migrants will have to apply for work visas and meet a minimum salary threshold before they are allowed to move to the UK. There will be temporary exemptions for areas of the economy dependent on low-skilled migrants but businesses will be told to train up British workers. Freezing fuel duty: Theresa May announced a freeze on fuel duty for the ninth year in a row. Chancellor Philip Hammond is to scrap a scheduled 2p-a-litre rise at the pumps in his October 29 Budget. Housing: A new tax on foreign property buyers will be introduced to help tackle rough sleeping. They face a surcharge of 1 per cent or 3 per cent on top of stamp duty to stop them driving up UK prices. Health: A new cancer strategy which will unrease early detection rates from one in two to three in four by 2028. They will lower the age of bowel screening from 60 to 50 years-old and build more rapid diagnostic centres. On Jeremy Corbyn: Theresa May called for 'decent, moderate, patriotic' Britons to come together to keep 'appalling' Jeremy Corbyn out of power. She said: 'What has it come to when Jewish families are seriously discussing where to go if Jeremy Corbyn becomes Prime Minister... That is what Jeremy Corbyn has done to the Labour Party. It is our duty in this Conservative Party to make sure he can never do it to our country. On Brexit: The PM warned against chasing an impossible vision of a perfect Brexit - and urged her party to unite and back her plan. She said: Those of us who do respect the result whichever side of the question we stood on two years ago need to come together now. If we dont if we all go off in different directions in pursuit of our own visions of the perfect Brexit we risk ending up with no Brexit at all. Advertisement 'So today I can announce that we are scrapping that cap. 'We will help you get on the housing ladder and we will build the homes this country needs.' The hotly-awaited conference speech was a make or break moment for Mrs May as she battles to win over restive grass roots to Brexit deal. Her address will inevitably be compared to the barn-storming appearance by Boris Johnson yesterday. Shortly before she was due to take to her feet, long-term critic James Duddridge MP announced that he had sent a letter to the powerful Tory 1922 committee asking for a vote of no confidence. Like last year's event - when a prankster presented her with a fake P45 on stage and then she lost her voice - Mrs May has a heavy cold, but aides insist she is up to putting on a show. The former foreign secretary was cheered to the rafters by around 1,500 Tory rank-and-file as he condemned the PM's Chequers plan for Brexit as an 'outrage'. The speech was hailed by Eurosceptic MPs - but allies of Mrs May lashed back by accusing Mr Johnson of 'grotesque self-indulgence' and said he was putting 'ambition' over the national interest. Aides to Mrs May claimed no-one - not even her husband Philip - knew she was planning to dance on to Abba. In her speech today, Mrs May called for 'decent, moderate, patriotic' Britons to come together to keep 'appalling' Jeremy Corbyn out of power. She delivered a devastating assault on 'appalling' Jeremy Corbyn - hammering him for Labour's anti-Semitism crisis and jibing that he had preferred to take Russia's side over the Salisbury nerve agent outrage. She said it was dreadful that the Jewish community was so concerned about the prospect of Mr Corbyn taking power that they were considering leaving the UK. 'What has it come to when Jewish families are seriously discussing where to go if Jeremy Corbyn becomes Prime Minister,' she said. 'When the leader of the Labour Party is happen to appear on Iranian state TV but attacks our free media here in Great Britain. 'That is what Jeremy Corbyn has done to the Labour Party. 'It is our duty in this Conservative Party to make sure he can never do it to our country.' She adapted Labour's 'For the many, not the few' slogan as she declared that the Conservatives are 'a party not for the few, not even for the many, but for everyone who is willing to work hard and do their best'. Mrs May insisted abuse in politics was a major and growing problem, speaking up for Labour's Diane Abbott who is the most targeted politician in the country. 'The first black woman ever to be elected to the House of Commons receives more racist and misogynist messages today than when she first stood over 30 years ago,' she said. 'You do not have to agree with a word Diane Abbott says to believe passionately in her right to say it, free from threats and abuse. 'Some people have lost sight of the fact that political differences are not everything.' Mrs May warned that 'no party has a monopoly on good ideas'. 'Getting things done requires working together,' she added. The PM called on politicians on all sides to 'rise above' the abuse and recalled the murdered MP Jo Cox to declare: 'There is more that unites us than divides us.' But Ms Abbott responded that despite the 'kind words' the Tories had encouraged personal attacks on her during the election campaign. The Prime Minister said: 'Millions of people who have never supported our party in the past are appalled by what Jeremy Corbyn has done to Labour. 'They want to support a party that is decent, moderate and patriotic. One that puts the national interest first. Delivers on the issues they care about. And is comfortable with modern Britain in all its diversity. Cabinet ministers including (left to right) Dominic Raab, Jeremy Hunt, Sajid Javid, Philip Hammond and Brandon Lewis were on hand to hear the address from the Tory leader today Michael Gove (pictured right) looked highly amused by Mrs May's antics during her conference speech today (left) Theresa May and husband Philip appeared to have chosen matching outfits for her conference speech in Birmingham today Diane Abbott was less than impressed by the PM's defence of her from vile abuse, saying 'nice words' were undermined by 'personal attacks' during the election campaign 'We must show everyone in this country that we are that party. 'A party that conserves the best of our inheritance but is not afraid of change. A party of patriotism but not nationalism. A party that believes in business but is not afraid to hold businesses to account. Dancing May laughs off her 2017 disaster with gags about the Bodyguard and her cough Theresa May danced onto stage for her Tory Party conference speech today as she consigned last year's disaster to history with jokes. Mocking the dance moves she made during a recent visit to Africa, which went viral, the Prime Minister arrived in the hall dancing to Abba's Dancing Queen. She also joked: 'Youll have to excuse me if I cough during this speech; Ive been up all night supergluing the backdrop.' 'It's not always glamorous. I have seen the trailers for Bodyguard - and let me tell you it was not like that in my day.' And to all businesses large and small you may have heard that there is a four-letter word to describe what we Conservatives want to do to you. It has a single syllable. It is of Anglo-Saxon derivation. It ends in the letter 'K'. Back business. Advertisement 'A party that believes in the good that government can do but knows that government will never have all the answers. A party that believes your success in life should not be defined by who you love, your faith, the colour of your skin, who your parents were, or where you were raised - but by your talent and hard work. 'Above all a party of Unionism, not just of four proud nations, but of all our people. 'A party not for the few, not even for the many, but for everyone who is willing to work hard and do their best.' Mrs May took to the stage at the Conservative Conference in Birmingham less than 24 hours after 1,500 delegates gave a thunderous standing ovation to Boris Johnson as he branded her Brexit plans a 'constitutional outrage' that would humiliate Britain. Mr Johnson's demand for the PM to 'chuck Chequers' has echoed around the corridors and fringe meetings at a gathering riven by profound differences over the best approach to Britain's EU withdrawal. But he stopped short of a direct challenge to her leadership, urging Tories to encourage her to ditch the plan agreed at her country residence and return to a harder Brexit blueprint. Mrs May said yesterday she was 'cross' with her former foreign secretary, accusing him of being ready to 'tear up' her guarantee to the people of Northern Ireland that there would be no customs border down the Irish Sea. Conservative MP James Duddridge renewed hostilities between the warring factions today, saying he had 'no confidence in her leadership over delivering Brexit'. Mrs May and husband Philip seemed in a jubilant mood after she managed to deliver her speech without any mishaps - unlike last year Mrs May needed to deliver a powerful performance after Mr Johnson's speech upped the pressure on her over Brexit But in her speech, Mrs May swiped at Mr Johnson over his barb about business concerns about Brexit - when he replied 'f*** business'. She told activists: 'To all businesses, large and small, you may have heard that there is a four-letter word to describe what we Conservatives want to do to you. Austerity WILL end after Brexit, May declares The PM today declared that austerity will end after she has delivered Brexit. Theresa May made the pledge as she insisted the Tories can spell out a positive domestic agenda and not just rein in spending. Mrs May has been heavily criticised by her own MPs for failing to come up with new domestic policies or the money needed to properly find schools, hospitals and local councils. But in a radical departure, she said the spending taps would be turned back on after Brexit as 'after a decade of austerity, people need to know that their hard work has paid off. She said: 'We are not just a party to clean up a mess, we are a party to steer a course to a better future. 'Sound finances are essential, but they are not the limit of our ambition. Because you made sacrifices, there are better days ahead. 'So, when we've secured a good Brexit deal for Britain, at the spending review next year we will set out our approach to the future. 'Debt as a share of the economy will continue to go down, support for public services will go up. 'Because, a decade after the financial crash, people need to know that the austerity it led to is over and that their hard work has paid off.' Advertisement 'It has a single syllable. It is of Anglo-Saxon derivation. It ends in the letter k. 'Back business. Back them to create jobs and build prosperity. Back them to drive innovation and improve lives. 'Back them with the lowest corporation tax in the G20. 'Britain, under my Conservative government is open for business.' She pleaded with 'decent patriots' to unite behind her today saying Britain's 'best days lie ahead'. 'I passionately believe that our best days lie ahead of us and that our future is full of promise,' she said. 'Don't let anyone tell you we don't have what it takes: we have everything we need to succeed.' Tory sources said Mrs May had 'set out her for the future of the country after Brexit'. They said she gave her 'diagnosis for some of the appeal of Jeremy Corbyn' and set out why people were wrong about the Labour leader. The address seemed to go down well with activists in the hall, despite the mounting unrest over her Brexit plan. Ruth Hatton told Mail Online: 'I thought her speech was inspiring, she came on in a jubilant manner. 'I don't relish the Chequers plan either we are going to be in or we are going to be out of the EYU. 'I think Theresa May might go for a no deal. 'I'm supportive of Theresa May we should leave her in to do the job.. It would be a disaster to change leaders.' Wani Fernando, from Leicestershire, said: 'Jacob Rees-Mogg and John Redwood will speak to her. They will put some sense into her. Things can change. A week is a long time in politics. 'I am a supporter of Theresa May. Whatever happens she will not go.' Neil Benny, 36, from Stirling, said he does not like the Common rulebook in the Chequers plan which would keep the UK tied to EU rules on goods. But he said there is no appetite for a leadership challenge. He said: 'It is essential that we unite behind the Prime Minister at his stage. If not, we are going to end up with a really bad Brexit deal.' Councils given the green light to borrow more to build homes Councils will be allowed to borrow more money to build new homes, Theresa May announced today. In the second policy announcement of her conference speech, the PM said councils would no longer be capped on how much they can borrow against their Housing Revenue Account assets effectively borrowing against current council homes to free up cash to build more. She told the conference: 'Solving the housing crisis is the biggest domestic policy challenge of our generation. 'It doesn't make sense to stop councils from playing their part in solving it. 'So today I can announce that we are scrapping that cap. 'We will help you get on the housing ladder and we will build the homes this country needs.' The new policy is on top of the 9billion Affordable Housing Programme for councils and 2billion in Government cash to fund affordable homes. Advertisement Asked if he would prefer Boris Johnson or Theresa May as leader, he said: 'At the moment, Theresa. I think a change at this stage would be chaotic.' Phoebe McCulloch, 21, who goes to university in Stirling in Scotland, said she enjoyed Theresa May's speech because it was 'energetic' and said her dancing made her appear softer than she usually does. She said: 'I would probably be on the chuck Chequers team. She said that no deal should be on the table that gives us ore bargaining power.' And she said that she prefers to see Mrs May as Tory leader rather than Boris Johnson. She said: 'Boris Johnson has been unprofessional at time, and we don't need a new leader at the moment.' Labour Party Chair Ian Lavery MP said: 'While the country is crying out for real change, all Theresa May and her party offer are pinched ideas and tinkering around at the edges, relying on petty attacks to cover up their lack of vision. 'Austerity is not an economic necessity. It is a political choice made by the Conservatives to hack away at our public services and communities, leaving workers worse off while gifting huge tax cuts to big business. And as long as Britain has a Conservative Prime Minister, we'll never see an end to austerity. 'Theresa May has shown her party offers no answers, no ideas, and no hope for communities held back for too long. Labour has put forward a radical and credible plan to transform our economy, public services and towns and cities. A plan to rebuild Britain for the many, not the few.' Mrs May put on a passionate performance that appeared to go down well with the rank-and-file despite mounting unrest over the Brexit process The PM's address will inevitably be compared to the barn-storming appearance by Boris Johnson (pictured at his Oxfordshire home today) Theresa May says Esther McVey, Sajid Javid and Ruth Davidson show the Tory party's diversity Esther McVey, the Work and Pensions Secretary, revealed this week that she was fostered when she was a child Esther McVey, Works and Pensions Secretary What did Theresa May say? 'That if you spent time in care, you can be in the Cabinet.' What is her backstory? Esther McVey revealed she was placed in a foster home shortly after she was born. The Cabinet minister, 50, revealed she was a 'Barnardo's child', spending her first two years in care with the charity. Speaking about her early childhood for the first time, she told the Daily Mail that she wanted to 'give the message that anyone can succeed given the opportunity'. She had hinted at her upbringing in her party conference speech this week, when she announced plans to work with Barnardo's to help people leaving care find jobs. In her keynote speech to the Tory conference in Birmingham yesterday, she praised the charity for how it has 'transformed the lives of millions of children and families across the UK'. She said: 'They provide unconditional support, without judgment, giving the space, time and help for people to get back on their feet. 'As one of those children, and standing proud, thank you.' Sajid Javid, the Home Secretary, is the son of a Pakistani bus driver and grew up in a crime-ridden area of Bristol Sajid Javid, Home Secretary What did Theresa May say? 'To know that if your dad arrived on a plane from Pakistan, you can become Home Secretary.' What is his backstory? Sajid Javid, 48, is the son of a Pakistani immigrant who worked as a bus driver. He was born in Rochdale, the middle child of five sons. His father Abdul, who came to Britain from Pakistan, worked around the clock as a bus driver, earning him the nickname 'Mr Night And Day'. When Mr Javid was four, his father took over a ladieswear shop in a crime-laden area of Bristol, and the family moved into a two-bedroom flat above it. Three brothers shared on room while Mr Javid and another younger brother were in a room with their parents. He has said that his own experience means he has something in common iwth the Windrush generation. 'It immediately impacted me. I'm a second-generation migrant, my parents came to this country from Pakistan, just like the Windrush generation, obviously a different part of the world, from South Asia not the Caribbean, but other than that, similar in almost every way.' Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson is engaged to her female partner Jennifer Wilson and is pregnant with her first child Ruth Davidson, Scottish Tory leader What did Theresa May say? ' That if you are pregnant with your first child and engaged to your girlfriend, you could be the next First Minister of Scotland.' What is her backstory? The hugely popular leader of the Scottish Tories has managed to puncture a lot of assumptions about the kind of people who lead the Conservatives. The 39 year-old is gay and currently eight months with her first child with her partner Jennifer Wilson. She has also opened up about her struggles with mental health and self harming while a young woman. She told The Sunday Times that when she was 17 she was sent into a 'total tailspin' after a boy in her home village committed suicide. She said: 'I started hurting myself: punching walls, cutting my stomach and arms with blades or broken glass, drinking far, far too much and becoming belligerent and angry, pushing people away. I was punishing myself and hating myself for it at the same time.' She was later diagnosed with clinical depression and put on antidepressants. Advertisement 'She was hoping to see another Christmas, but didn't make it': May's voice cracks as she unveils new cancer strategy by recalling agony of goddaughter's death last summer Theresa May has told how the death of her goddaughter from cancer made her determined to fund the battle against the disease. The Prime Minister's voice broke with emotion as she told the hall at the party's conference in Birmingham how cancer had touched her life. She said: 'Cancer can strike any of us at any time. A few years ago my goddaughter was diagnosed with cancer. 'She underwent treatment and it seemed to be working, but then the cancer came back. 'Last summer, she sent me a text to tell me she was hoping to see another Christmas, but she didn't make it. Theresa May told today how her goddaughter died from cancer after being diagnosed three years ago She said her goddaughter told her she wanted to see one more Christmas but died too soon She continued: 'Half of us will be diagnosed with cancer, all of us know someone who has been. 'Survival rates are increasing, but we're lagging behind other countries, so today I can announce a new cancer strategy.' She said she wants to increase early detection rates and make sure doctors have the most up to date equipment to tackle the disease. On the importance of early diagnosis, Mrs May added: 'Five-year survival rates for bowel cancer are over 90% if caught early, but less than 10% if diagnosed late. 'Through our cancer strategy, we will increase the early detection rate from one-in-two today, to-three-in-four by 2028. 'We will do it by lowering the age at which we screen for bowel cancer from 60 to 50, by investing in the very latest scanners, and by building more rapid diagnostic centres - one-stop shops that help people get treatment quicker.' 'When the cringe is TOO strong!': Twitter users grimace as Theresa May robot-dances at Tory conference to ABBA's Dancing Queen - then jokes BBC's Bodyguard 'wasn't like that in my day' Theresa May sparked a flurry of memes on social media after she came out dancing to ABBA to deliver her keynote speech at the Tory party conference. The Prime Minister walked on stage with her hands up by her side doing a jig to Dancing Queen. The audience of members and MPs in the conference hall in Birmingham were left howling with laughter at her moves. She also joked about the steamy BBC drama Bodyguard, saying: 'It wasn't like that in my day.' The Prime Minister walked on stage with her hands up by her side doing a jig to Dancing Queen Internet users flooded the web with hilarious memes after her dancing, many uploading pictures of robots to poke fun at her 'Maybot' persona One harsh Twitter user compared Mrs May to bambi floundering in water after she danced on stage today May has been filmed dancing on several occasions over the past few months, but has been repeatedly mocked for her 'cringeworthy' style. During a trip to Kenya she was spotted dancing with schoolchildren in Nairobi. She said of her moves: 'The children were so enthusiastic about the dancing and I thought it was important to join in. 'I was trying to copy their moves. 'I took the mickey-taking in good heart, which is why I tweeted that TV Strictly competitors should get in touch if they needed any tips. 'All tongue in cheek, of course.' During her speech today she also made a joke about last year' disastrous performance when she coughed most of the way through her address. She said: 'You do have to excuse me if I do cough during the speech. I've been up all night super-gluing the backdrop.' May hails the selflessness of Britain's war generation as she reveals her father's cousin fought and died at Passchendaele Theresa May today spoke movingly for the first time about the death of a 19-year-old relative at Passchendaele as she marked the 100th anniversary of the First World War. The Prime Minister revealed how her father's cousin Hubert Grant perished 'in the horror of the trenches' in 1917 - a year before the conflict with Germany ended. Opening her conference speech in Birmingham she paid tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice - including Mr Grant - and thanked the 'extraordinary generation' of men and women who rebuilt Britain after the war ended. Theresa May today spoke movingly of the death of a 19-year-old relative at Passchendaele at the beginning of her conference speech in Birmingham today Theresa May pictured with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at Ypres where she looked for the name of her father's cousin Hubert Grant on the Menin Gate She said: 'We remember the young men who left their homes to fight and died in the mud in the horror of the trenches. We remember the sailors who shovelled the coal into hellfire furnaces in the bowels of battleships. We remember the selflessness of a remarkable generation whose legacy is the freedom we enjoy today. 'I think of Hubert Grant - my father's cousin. Hubert fought and died at Passchendaele at the age of just 19. Last year at the service to mark the centenary of that battle I took a moment to find his name on the Menin Gate alongside thousands of his comrades. We will remember them'. Mrs May represented Britain alongside leaders of Germany and Belgium in the Belgian town of Ypres to mark the Battle of Passchendaele in a show of solidarity last year. Also known as the Third Battle of Ypres, it was one of the bloodiest battles of World War One, leading to the loss of more than 460,000 German and British-allied soldiers between July and December 1917. The British and Belgium royal families including King Philippe of Belgium and Britain's Prince William helped lead the commemorations. A school is upping the fight to tackle pupil obesity by fitting pedals under the desks used by its seven and eight year old pupils. The school in Suffolk is believed to be the first in the country to introduce sets of pedals which children can use while studying. The school purchased the devices for 20 and has installed the pedals under children's class room desks so they can cycle as they swot, as well as clocking up the cardio. Pupils at the school enjoy reading together while they pedal away on the equipment While children at Red Oak Primary School in Lowestoft, practise their reading and arithmetic skills, they also pedal away on the floor-mounted bikes, in a move the school hopes will encourage them to lead a more active and healthy style. The scheme has been launched in a year three class, which includes pupils of ages seven and eight. Staff at the school on Southwell Road are pleased with the results and have now decided that the scheme will be rolled out to a further 330 children in years one to six at the school. The 430-pupil school run by the aptly-named Active Learning Trust academy has now placed an order to buy more pedals as they extend the programme to 11 other classes. The exercise equipment has a digital display that shows exercise time duration, calorie consumption and revolutions per minute. They were purchased with some of the PE and sport premium funding and topped up from the school budget. Some children have said that they have become competitive because of the devices and that they compare their scores PE co-ordinator and year three teacher Johnny Lee said: 'I had heard of schools in America using the pedal bikes during sedentary lessons, which led to improved levels of concentration after using the equipment and increasing activity throughout the day. 'We call it our active classroom. The desk pedals have seen the children cycle during their English, maths, ICT and French lessons to make them fitter and increase their daily physical activity. 'It's had a great impact on the class, with the children wandering around no more. The idea of the pedals is to keep the children motivated in more sedentary lessons 'The behaviour is better and engagement in lessons has been great the class has been really enthusiastic and they like using the bikes.' Children aged seven in Mr Lee's class said they were 'proud' and 'excited' to be the first to try out the desk pedals. One pupil Luissa said: 'It has made our lessons fun.' The children seem to enjoy using the pedals which have been installed by the school in Suffolk While Jake added: 'It makes you burn lots of energy and helps us concentrate.' Other pupils such as Evie said: 'It is really exciting and makes you more healthier.' Whilst another called Ella highlighted how it will help them 'lose calories'. 'It stops us wandering around the classroom and helps us to lose calories,' she said. The new equipment cost 20 per unit and the school has plans to purchase more of them A pupil called Mia revealed that pupils were always trying to improve their rate of pedalling. She said: 'We are trying to beat our tallies each day.' Another said: 'It has helped us to stop fiddling.' The decision to on board the scheme was made by the school's headteacher Heather Madsen, who decided to bring in the pedals after seeing them being used at schools in Scandinavia where she had previously worked. The pedals can be used under the desks and help children to keep active during lessons Mrs Madsen said: 'It has been really successful and the other children are all really looking forward to it. 'The desk pedals have now become a habit, as the pupils are fiddling less with things on the table. No one is forced to cycle - they are doing it by themselves - and the desk pedals are brilliant for those who want to burn off more energy. 'We are trying to make as many opportunities as possible for the children to be more active in a classroom setting, including standing up to answer questions.' A former detective has revealed he remains 'hopeful' that Madeleine McCann will be found alive in Portugal. Former Detective Inspector Dave Edgar was hired by Kate and Gerry McCann to look into their daughter's disappearance and worked on the case for three years before it was taken over by the Met Police in 2011. Speaking out today, Mr Edgar believes the case is 'solvable' and maintains there are 'people out there who know what happened'. Dave Edgar (left) remains 'hopeful' that Madeleine McCann will be found alive in Portugal Dave Edgar was hired by Kate and Gerry McCann to look into their daughter's disappearance and worked on the case for three years Last year Mr Edgar claimed the kidnapper was being protected and said the disappearance was 'intricately planned by a gang of paedophiles'. He once said he believed Madeleine was being held in an underground cell or dungeon, like the victims of Josef Fritzl. Mr Edgar told The Sun today there is still the chance of a breakthrough, adding: '[Madeleine] could literally be anywhere in the world but my hunch is that she is in Portugal. 'The chance that she may have been smuggled out of the country without being detected is highly unlikely. There is someone in Portugal with an open knowledge of where she is and what happened.' Last week, the Home Office confirmed it was considering an application from Scotland Yard for more funding to continue the hunt for the youngster. The Home Office confirmed it was considering an application from Scotland Yard for more funding to continue the hunt for the youngster In a blog published on September 26, it said: 'We have received and are considering a request from the Metropolitan Police Service to extend funding for Operation Grange until the end of March 2019. 'The Home Office maintains an ongoing dialogue with the MPS regarding funding for Operation Grange.' Scotland Yard launched Operation Grange in 2013 after a Portuguese inquiry failed to make any headway. UK detectives were granted an extra 150,000 in March to continue the probe, to cover until the end of September. Operation Grange has cost 11.6 million so far. The Conservative Party's candidate for London Mayor today hailed Boris Johnson's record in City Hall amid the ongoing Tory civil war. Shaun Bailey praised Mr Johnson's record of 'hope, opportunity and delivery' during his eight years in charge of the capital. And he vowed to win London back and make tackling crime and the housing crisis his top priorities, in his speech to the Tory Party conference in Birmingham today. His remarks come after a bitter showdown between Mr Johnson and the PM at the annual Tory gathering yesterday. Mr Bailey said: 'For eight years a Conservative mayor led London with a message of hope, opportunity and delivery. Delivery. He did what he said.' Shaun Bailey (pictured today at the Tory party conference in Birmingham) praised Mr Johnson's record of 'hope, opportunity and delivery' during his eight years in charge of the capital The former Foreign Secretary was cheered to the rafters by around 1,500 Tory activists as he lashed her Brexit Chequers plan at a fringe meeting yesterday. But the PM hit back saying she was 'cross' at his remarks and warning his Brexit plan would leave 'tear up our guarantee to the people of Northern Ireland' not to create new divisions in the UK. Mr Bailey tore in Labour's London Mayor Sadiq Khan - accusing him of being a 'man for the red carpet not for the streets' - and of destroying the Tory legacy in the capital. And he vowed to oust the London politician and win the capital back for the Conservative Party. Mr Bailey, who is a descendant of the Windrush generation, said that he will win London because he knows how Londoners lived. The former adviser to David Cameron told how he used to work in low paid jobs and sofa surf before he went into politics. He told the crowd: 'The grandson of a Jamaican soldier the son of an NHS receptionist who grew up i a council house in London and is now your Conservative candidate for Mayor of London. Theresa May (pictured reading her speech) will today call for 'decent, moderate, patriotic' Britons to unite behind the Tories to keep 'appalling' Jeremy Corbyn out of power Boris Johnson (pictured left,giving his speech on the Tory conference fringe yesterday) has cast a long shadow over this year's party conference with his repeated attacks on the PM's Chequers plan. The former foreign secretary was spotted back at his Oxfordshire home today (right) 'It is the Conservative Party that makes stories like mine possible.' He pledged to tackle crime and the housing crisis, saying: 'On crime, I want to see London put its criminals under pressure - not comunities. 'On housing, I want all Londoners to have a place to call home.' And he ended by saying: 'If anybody asks me what has the Conservative Party ever don for a working class black man, I'll tell them they made me he Conservative candidate for Mayor of London.' His remarks were greeted with warm applause by the audience. Mr Bailey was voted by Tory activists to be the party's candidate in the next mayporal race in two yars time. He is a City Hall representative and used to advise David Cameron on youth and race matters while he was Prime Minsiter. But he faces a tough challenge wining the capital over as London is a Labour stronghold. The widow of PC Keith Palmer last night said her husband had been left to die during the Westminster terror attack after an inquest found his murder could have been prevented. Michelle Palmer criticised police chiefs for leaving her unarmed husband to guard one of the worlds most iconic buildings and top terrorist targets without firearms officers beside him. Coroner Mark Lucraft QC yesterday ruled that PC Palmer could still be alive today if police marksmen had been at the front gates at the time of the atrocity. Instead, they were 80 yards away. The inquest also heard that firearms officers had been stationed at the entrance PC Palmer was guarding seven or eight years ago but were subsequently told to carry out roving patrols. Michelle Palmer (pictured with Pc Keith Palmer) says that her husband was let down by a failure to protect him and said his family were let down by a failure to properly investigate his death Numerous security reviews, including one just two years before, had found the front gates were particularly vulnerable to attack. In the wake of Mr Lucrafts damning verdict, Mrs Palmer said no one at Scotland Yard had taken responsibility for the lax security that left him unprotected during the assault by terrorist Khalid Masood. She said she had been let down and that the hardest part of her husbands murder was having to tell their six-year-old daughter, Amy, that her daddy was gone. PC Palmer, 48, was guarding the Carriage Gates at the Palace of Westminster in March last year when Masood embarked on his rampage. Murdered PC Keith Palmer pictured with his wife Michelle. PC Palmer, 48, was guarding the Carriage Gates at the Palace of Westminster in March last year when Masood embarked on his rampage Emergency services are pictured at the scene of the Westminster attack giving medical treatment to the terrorist After mowing down and killing four pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, he rammed into the Houses of Parliament and burst out with a carving knife and a hunting knife. Armed only with a baton and CS spray, PC Palmer was held down by Masood and repeatedly stabbed in the face, neck and back after trying to intervene in his deadly assault. His body armour did not protect him and he died from his wounds just minutes later while witnesses tried to save him. Masood was finally shot by two close protection officers who only happened to be at Parliament because they were guarding then-defence secretary Sir Michael Fallon. The two armed officers on duty at Parliament on the day of the attack had not gone near the gate for almost an hour beforehand. They were 80 yards away when PC Palmer was stabbed and could not see the attack unfold. Masood killed four civilians and a police officer during his car and knife rampage. He was pictured smiling at a hotel shortly before the attack John Frade, the widower of mother-of-two Aysha who was killed in the attack, said he hoped 'lessons will be learned' to prevent similar tragedies Receipts from a trip to Tesco in Birmingham show Masood buying essentials such as bodywash, whilst he also purchased two carving knives Since PC Palmers death, Scotland Yard has been accused of unfairly blaming the junior officers to hide systematic security failings. The marksmen insist they were simply following orders by focusing their attentions on another entrance at Parliament that was commonly used by MPs and ministers. Yesterday, following a four-week inquest, Mr Lucraft said that had the armed officers been stationed at the Carriage Gates, it is possible they may have been able to prevent PC Palmer suffering fatal injuries. In the wake of his verdict last night, Mrs Palmer said: How could Keith have been left alone, unarmed, guarding an open gate at one of the most iconic buildings in the world and one of the countrys top terrorist targets? He was left at a vulnerable location with no protection to die. Attacker Khalid Masood is given medical treatment outside Parliament after he was shot following his murderous rampage in which he killed four pedestrians and stabbed PC Palmer Retired window cleaner Leslie Rhodes (left) and Romanian tourist Andreea Cristea (right) were both killed in the attack Nobody wants to take responsibility for leaving one of their own officers there unprotected when they knew that police officers were at risk of attack at this vulnerable location. Security risk was flagged up years ago A security review two years before PC Keith Palmers death concluded that the gate where he was stationed was vulnerable because it was manned by unarmed officers. But the Houses of Parliament threat assessment was never passed on to police on the ground, the inquest heard. On the day of Khalid Masoods attack, no firearms officer was seen near Carriage Gates for almost an hour before PC Palmer was knifed. Instead, marksmen prioritised the Members Entrance which was used by ministers and MPs to attend Prime Ministers Questions. A tactical assessment published in early 2015 found that armed officers should be able to quickly respond to an attack at Carriage Gates. But PC Lee Ashby, one of the firearms officers on duty that day, said he was unaware of the concerns raised. He said it was impossible to provide effective cover for all the gates on his patrol and admitted the system left unarmed officers unprotected more often than not. He said he would have shot Masood if he had been at the gate. Firearms officers used to be stationed behind Carriage Gates until 2012. PC Ashby said he had to cover three other entrances and the fence line, admitting he could not be at more than one place at a time. Advertisement What makes it even worse is that this lax security had been carrying on for years and it has taken what happened to Keith for things to change. [Scotland Yard] let Keith down by failing to protect him and let us down by failing to investigate his death properly. In a particularly emotional statement, she said the hardest part of her husbands murder was having to tell their six-year-old daughter Amy that her father had died. The hardest thing was having to tell Amy that her daddy was gone, she said. They were the best of friends and he was her world. Bed times were the hardest for her as thats when Keith would usually be around to help. Her damning assessment of police chiefs came as the inquest into the five victims of the Westminster attack ended yesterday. Mr Lucraft ruled that PC Palmer and the four pedestrians Kurt Cochran, 54, Leslie Rhodes, 75, Aysha Frade, 44, and Andrea Cristae, 31 who died on Westminster Bridge were unlawfully killed by Masood. In other developments: Scotland Yard finally apologised for the possibility they lost the chance to save PC Palmer. Mrs Frades husband John accused the MI5 of missing a series of chances to prevent the attack. The coroner called for distressing pictures of the victims to be removed from the internet. The inquest heard marksmen had been stationed at PC Palmers gate seven or eight years ago but were then ordered to carry out roving patrols leaving the Carriage Gates vulnerable to attack. Several security reviews found the entrance to be one of the weakest points in the physical perimeter of Parliament. Another assessment was carried out in 2015 shortly after the UKs terror threat level had been raised to severe. Once again major flaws were revealed and instructions published telling officers to make regular checks at Carriage Gates. Most firearms officers were unaware of the new tactics and said they had been verbally ordered to continue with roving patrols. Aysha Frade (left) and Kurt Cohran (right) were also killed in the terror attack that struck Westminster, central London Chief coroner Mark Lucraft said there were 'shortcomings in the security system' in New Palace Yard, where PC Palmer was attacked After the attack junior officers said they had been hung out to dry by police chiefs who attempted to blame them for their actions on the day. Giving his findings at the Old Bailey inquest, Mr Lucraft said: Due to shortcoming in security system the armed officers were not aware of a requirement to remain in close proximity to the gates. Had they been stationed there, it is possible that they may have been able to prevent PC Palmer suffering fatal injuries. Last night PC Palmers parents John and Sylvia Curtis and his sisters Angela Clark and Michelle Palmer welcomed the coroners findings but said he should have been tougher in his criticism of the Metropolitan Police. In a statement, they said: We expected the Met to welcome an open and transparent examination of this horrific attack on its own officer and members of the public, yet instead senior officers seem to have closed ranks. 'They let Keith down by failing to protect him': Widow's full speech Michelle Palmer, widow of Pc Keith Palmer, said: 'How could Keith have been left alone, unarmed, guarding an open gate at one of the most iconic buildings in the world and one of the country's top terrorist targets? 'He was left at a vulnerable location with no protection to die. 'The fact there were no firearms officers there for nearly an hour is hard to believe. I truly believe that if they had been there he would still be here today and Amy wouldn't have lost her daddy. 'What is so disappointing is that the police haven't been very open about their investigation in relation to the security arrangements at the Palace of Westminster. They have been very slow to get to the bottom of how this was allowed to happen. 'Nobody wants to take responsibility for leaving one of their own officers there unprotected when they knew that police officers were at risk of attack at this vulnerable location.' Police officers lined the streets of London for PC Palmer's funeral last April Mrs Palmer continued: 'What makes it even worse is that this lax security had been carrying on for years and it has taken what happened to Keith for things to change. 'I am pleased that the coroner found that there were shortcomings in the security system by the senior command of the Metropolitan Police but it won't bring Keith back. 'They let Keith down by failing to protect him and let us down by failing to investigate his death properly. Now we have to live with the consequences of their failure.' In a joint statement released through their lawyers, PC Palmer's parents and siblings, John and Sylvia Curtis, Angela Clark, Michelle Palmer and John Curtis said: 'The inquest has been traumatic and extremely difficult for our family. 'We welcome the fact that the Chief Coroner has recognised some of the Met's failings and their consequences but believe he should have gone further. 'We fought hard to try and get answers to the many questions which have arisen through this process. Unfortunately there are many which are still unanswered.' His funeral cortege passed the Palace of Westminster where he was killed The family statement continued: 'We expected the Met to welcome an open and transparent examination of this horrific attack on its own officer and members of the public, yet instead senior officers seem to have closed ranks. 'What message does this send to ordinary officers bravely reporting for duty every day, to keep us all safe? 'We have been deeply reluctant to speak out about our experiences but have done so only in the hope that future Coroners will take note of our experience and put questions from the bereaved families at the heart of the process, so the full truth can emerge. Otherwise what is the point of an inquest? 'We would like to say how proud we are of Keith. We now have an even clearer picture of just how brave and courageous he was in that terrible moment. We love and miss him every day, but we are very glad that we had him in our lives. 'Our family would like to thank everyone who has supported us during this difficult time and express our huge thanks to our legal team for their incredible support, kindness and hard work both before, and during, this inquest process.' Advertisement Pc Palmer's parents and siblings speak out on their 'traumatic' loss John and Sylvia Curtis, Angela Clark, Michelle Palmer, and John Curtis said in a statement today: 'The inquest has been traumatic and extremely difficult for our family. 'We welcome the fact that the Chief Coroner has recognised some of the Mets failings and their consequences but believe he should have gone further. 'We fought hard to try and get answers to the many questions which have arisen through this process. Unfortunately there are many which are still unanswered. 'We expected the Met to welcome an open and transparent examination of this horrific attack on its own officer and members of the public, yet instead senior officers seem to have closed ranks. 'What message does this send to ordinary officers bravely reporting for duty every day, to keep us all safe? 'We have been deeply reluctant to speak out about our experiences but have done so only in the hope that future Coroners will take note of our experience and put questions from the bereaved families at the heart of the process, so the full truth can emerge. Otherwise what is the point of an inquest? 'We would like to say how proud we are of Keith. We now have an even clearer picture of just how brave and courageous he was in that terrible moment. We love and miss him every day, but we are very glad that we had him in our lives. 'Our family would like to thank everyone who has supported us during this difficult time and express our huge thanks to our legal team for their incredible support, kindness and hard work both before, and during, this inquest process.' Advertisement Melissa Cochran was pushed aside by her husband Kurt (pictured together just before he died) as the used his 4x4 car as a weapon in the shadow of Big Ben last March. The couple were the first to be attacked by Khalid Masood in the devastating attack last March Melissa Cochran attended the Service of Hope at Westminster Abbey in London in April last year PTI Punjab reign will end within next few months: Rana Mashhood LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan on Tuesday stirred a political storm, claiming that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led Punjab government might end in the next two months or so and would be replaced by his own party. Speaking to a private television channel, the PML-N stalwart said that incumbent Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdars reign will end within the next few months through either a public or judicial decision. The PTI in Punjab holds a small majority. Everyone knows how this majority was secured. Those who helped them in securing the majority have told me that false promises were made and they are now having a change of heart, he added. When asked who his party would field for the post of chief minister, Mashhood replied that Hamza Shehbaz was and would remain the PML-Ns candidate. The PML-N leader also spoke of the situation changing once the constituencies which had election petitions pending in tribunals and high courts were opened. Mashhood categorically denied reports of a deal between the PML-N and institutions, stating that conversations had taken place between the party and officials in institutions through which it was discovered that there was a growing sentiment of PTI not being able to deliver. We are against deals and have always had a principled stance against deals. The PML-N leader also stated that there was a widespread sentiment that Shehbaz Sharif was the better choice. He [Shehbaz Sharif] would have performed much better in these circumstances if he was the prime minister. His fellow PML-N leader Rana Sanaullah disowned Mashhoods statement, saying: Someones remarks in their individual capacity cannot be attributed to the party. He said that the PML-N would not support any non-democratic force. We believe in democratic institutions and civilian supremacy; we want power through vote only, he said, and reiterated his partys stance that the July 25 polls were rigged heavily. Similar remarks were made by PML-Ns spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb. She said that Mashhoods statement was his own and could not be attributed to the party leadership. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Nafisa Shah in her reaction to Mashhoods statement said: Mashhoods statement proved that the PML-N was seeking a deal with the establishment in the name of democracy. Meanwhile, Punjab Information Minister Punjab Information Minister Fayyazul Hassan Chohan said that Mashhood was maligning establishment on behalf of Shehbaz Sharif. He was speaking to the media to respond to PML-Ns leader statement. The nation had awarded throne to Imran Khan through power of vote. Mashhood is trying to make general polls controversial, asserted Chohan. Also, Inter-Services Public Relations Director General Major General Asif Ghafoor expressed disappointment over Mashhoods statement. The ISPR director general posted on Twitter that the attribution of a vested statement by Mashhood was baseless. He added that such irresponsible expressions hamper stability in the country. A nine-year-old boy brought a gun to his school in Florida and aimed it at three classmates, authorities said. The boy, who has not been identified, was arrested at Lauderhill Paul Turner Elementary School, near Fort Lauderdale, on Tuesday. Police said the third grader pulled the gun out of his backpack in a classroom and aimed it three classmates while a teacher was present, the Orlando Sun-Sentinel reports. He also made threatening comments to his classmates, and one of the students told school officials. The boy, who has not been identified, was arrested at Lauderhill Paul Turner Elementary School (pictured), near Fort Lauderdale, on Tuesday Video courtesy of Local10 'You see this, this is a real gun,' he told his classmates. The teacher, who saw the gun at around 10.20am, called the vice principal who then alerted the school resource officer. The officer responded and took the handgun. No one was harmed, a police spokesman confirmed. Police were trying to determine where the boy found the gun and what prompted him to bring it to school. At first, they said the gun had been loaded, but later said it was not confirmed if he had ammunition. The elementary school is less than a 30-minute drive to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, where a former student shot and killed 17 people The school which has almost 700 students enrolled from kindergarten through fifth grade - was not evacuated or locked down because police were able to quickly take the gun and determined the incident was an isolated one, the police spokesman told the Sun-Sentinel. The boy was taken to the county's juvenile detention facility. He faces charges of possession of a firearm on school property and three counts of aggravated assault. The school is located in Broward County, which also encompasses Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland. A former student shot and killed 17 people at the school in February, leading to survivors starting the March for Our Lives movement to prevent gun violence. A Russian military expert has warned there is 'no doubt' Russia has moved nuclear missiles to the Crimean peninsula. Pavel Felgenhauer, a military analyst who successfully predicted Putin's invasion of Georgia in 2008, accused the Russian premier of reneging on several treaties in order to bolster defences in the disputed territory. 'For Moscow the Crimea is a Russian territory, so the agreements on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons do not worry her much,' Felgenhauer told Ukrainian newspaper Gordonua. 'In general, there are quite a lot of tactic weapons in the Russian Federation - according to various estimates, up to 10,000 units.' Scroll down for video Military analyst Pavel Felgenhauer (pictured in 2015) said Russia had 'no doubt' already put nuclear weapons in the Crimea Speaking about the 1991 agreement signed between the US and Russia on not deploying nuclear weapons on ships or planes he said it was only a 'gentleman's agreement' and 'is actually not being implemented'. 'Obviously Russia will not confirm or deny the presence of nuclear weapons in the Crimea,' Felgenhauer continued, 'But there can be no doubt they are there.' Felgenhauer's revelation come just 24 hours after Ukraine's Minister for Foreign Affairs Pavlo Klimkin said the peninsula was being used by Putin as a 'major military base'. 'Now Crimea has turned into Russia's major military base,' Klimkin said on Tuesday. Felgenhauer's statement came just 24 hours after Ukraine's Minister for Foreign Affairs Pavlo Klimkin (pictured) said his country suspected there were nukes in Crimea 'At the same time we don't know exactly what they have there. We have reasonable suspicions there may be nuclear weapons, or at least, infrastructure for nuclear weapons.' Thousands of Russian troops have been stationed in the Crimea since it was annexed in 2014 amid widespread international condemnation. Russian MP Vyacheslav Alekseyevich Nikonov has previously warned Russia could use nuclear weapons to defend its position if forces led by the US or make a move into Crimea. 'If US forces, Nato forces, are, were, in the Crimea, in eastern Ukraine, Russia is undefendable militarily in case of conflict, without using nuclear weapons in the early stage of the conflict,' Nikonov told a global security forum in Slovakia last year. Advertisement A stricken family were today pulled to safety by firefighters after a burst water main flooded the streets and left them trapped in their home. Footage posted on social media showed cars completely submerged in water on a residential street and people wading through huge puddles on their morning commute as many were left without electricity and water for more than 17 hours. One boy was even filmed climbing out of his window to get to school as the water had barricaded his front door, while a family of four with a baby were rescued in a dinghy. Thames Water said the pipe burst last night, but it didn't know what had caused the damage. A stricken family were today pulled to safety by firefighters after a burst water main flooded the streets and left them trapped in their home A schoolboy climbs out of his second-floor window after the flooding barricaded his front door. Thames Water said the pipe burst last night, but it didn't know what had caused the damage He then waded through the huge puddles on his way to school in North London this morning. The water was several feet deep A black car is completely submerged in the floods with just its roof protruding out of the water on Wednesday afternoon A car is submerged after a water supply pipe burst in the Hackney district of London after a mains water pipe burst Flooding due to a burst watermain in the Lea Bridge Road at the junction with Otley Terrace, London E5 Firefighters were filmed knee-deep in the floods using rubber dinghies to deliver bottled water to trapped residents Residents were seen standing on walls to avoid getting soaked while separate footage showed water pouring from the damaged pipe into a nearby canal. Pictured: A car submerged Firefighters were filmed knee-deep in the floods using rubber dinghies to deliver bottled water to trapped residents. Residents were seen standing on walls to avoid getting soaked while separate footage showed water pouring from the damaged pipe into a nearby canal. Kris Lee, whose home overlooks the flooding, told the Hackney Gazette: 'The pipe burst where the big tree is that's stuck in the middle of the hoarding. 'It started at 10pm and it's getting worse and worse. The London Fire Brigade are here now but they are trying to suck the water out through a 6in pipe. The burst pipe is 36in. I think they're fighting a losing battle. Firefighters appear to collect bottled water from a nearby shop and use a dinghy to deliver it to residents trapped in their homes The pipe burst at around 10pm last night but it's not known what caused the damage Water has been pouring out of the pipe into a nearby canal since around 10pm last night Emergency services are still trying to stop the leakage, which has now been ongoing for several hours A Thames Water spokesperson said: 'We're really sorry for the disruption caused by our burst pipe affecting the area around Lea Bridge Road' 'There are cars that are completely underwater in the car park. The residents of Paradise Park have no electricity or water, I don't think it's reached the flats yet but it will if it doesn't stop.' A Thames Water spokesperson said: 'We're really sorry for the disruption caused by our burst pipe affecting the area around Lea Bridge Road. 'Our specialist team of customer reps, ambassadors and loss adjustors are in the area to support our customers at what we know will be a difficult time for those affected by the flooding. A portion of the street has been cordoned off as firefighters try to stop the water flow 'Four fire engines from Homerton and Stoke Newington fire stations are at the scene 'Our top priority will be minimising disruption for them and getting things back to normal as soon as we possibly can. 'Our engineers have been working hard since the early hours to stop the water flowing from the pipe and in the meantime we're extremely grateful for efforts of the fire service to help pump water away from properties.' A fire brigade spokesperson said: 'Firefighters are dealing with a flooding in an underground car park on Lea Bridge Road in Hackney, E5. Firefighters are seen knee-deep in the deepest part of the floods where cars have been completely submerged 'The flood has been caused by a burst water main. Thames Water and the police are on the scene. 'Firefighters are pumping water out of the car park. 'Four fire engines from Homerton and Stoke Newington fire stations are at the scene. Two fire rescue units from Bethnal Green and Euston are also at the scene. Around 40 firefighters are in attendance.' Antonio Roncolato giving evidence at the public inquiry into the disaster One of the last survivors to escape Grenfell Tower filmed his smoke-filled flat as the inferno raged around him as his desperate son pleaded with him to 'get out'. Antonio Roncolato was asleep in his home on the 10th floor of the west London block when he was woken up at 1.40am by a call from his crying son, screaming: 'Get out of the house, the tower's burning, I love you Pappy get out'. But the 58-year-old was told to 'stay put' by emergency services so he sat and ate a bowl of porridge in a bid to 'stay calm and give him energy to escape' before he was rescued by firefighters at 6am. Mr Roncolato, a restaurant manager from Italy, gave his account at the Grenfell Inquiry which is today beginning a month of evidence from survivors, neighbours and relatives of those who died in the fire. Maria de Fatima Alves, the second survivor to give evidence to the public inquiry, told of the guilt she felt after escaping from the blaze. Mrs Alves, who had lived in a flat on the 13th floor for 18 years, left the building at around 1am and went to a friend's house nearby just before 2am. Mrs Alves said she was crying as she watched people at the windows of the tower, 'shouting and screaming, waving mops and T-shirts out of the window.' She said: 'I could see people waving, then a sudden flash of lightning behind them and they would disappear. It was terrifying to watch.' Mr Roncolato filmed his smoke-filled flat as the inferno raged around him as his desperate son pleaded with him to 'get out' Mr Roncolato had lived in his flat for 27 years and shared the property with his son Christopher. In a written statement, he said he first thought the noise was from a party before realising he could hear sirens and screaming and tried to leave his flat but was forced to retreat because of thick black smoke. He said: 'You cannot see, you cannot breath, you lose your bearing, you lose your senses. It was really scary. It was pitch black. 'My eyes were stinging; I was almost crying. I then decided to eat the porridge that I had prepared for breakfast as I waited to be rescued. 'This was to keep my energy levels up, so I would be ready when the time came to leave.' Mr Roncolato had lived in his flat for 27 years and shared the property with his son Christopher. He was trapped on the 10th floor FURIOUS SON HITS OUT AT 'CONFLICTING ADVICE' In a written statement to the public inquiry, Mr Roncolato's son Christopher said his father's smoke detector had not sounded when he first rang. 'I was effectively his fire alarm,' he said. He also said he was 'angry' to receive conflicting advice when he rang 999 on different occasions to ask what his trapped father should do. He said: 'Both times, the calls were answered straight away. One operator told me that my dad had to stay put. 'However, I made another 999 call immediately afterwards and the second operator told me that my dad should leave the building straight away. 'I am very grateful to the firefighters for saving my dad's life, but I do not understand why it took so long to reach him.' Mr Roncolato told the inquiry he did not think there was a smoke alarm in the hallway outside and said he spoke to a fire official who told him to 'very much stay put' and assured him somebody was coming to get him. Mr Roncolato said: 'I started waving at the crowd below and turned my lights on and off to attract their attention. I could hear some people shouting 'get out' but there were others shouting to 'stay put'. I did not know what to think. 'He [the fire official] was very determined in his words not to try anything risky basically, saying they were aware I was there and they will come and get me. 'If it had not been for Christopher calling me, I would not have known about the fire. 'I also now know that numerous 999 calls were made about me throughout the night, but it was not until the final call, when Christopher handed his friend's phone over to a fire marshal, that firefighters were sent to finally rescue me. 'I do not understand why this information was not communicated to the firefighters earlier, but I will be eternally grateful to the two firefighters who no doubt saved my life.' Advertisement Mr Roncolato's son then sent him a picture of the tower engulfed with flames. He continued: 'I then really started to focus on how to get out of the tower alive. I knew that one mistake would be fatal. ' He said that if there was a smoke detector 'it wasn't functioning that night', as the smoke in the hallway was heavy enough to set off an alarm. Mr Roncolato called the night manager at the hotel where he worked to tell him he was trapped in his flat and would not be able to come to work. The manager replied that he should 'get the hell out of there'. He said: 'Throughout the night Christopher kept calling me telling me he loved me and to make sure I was ok. I told him that it was not my time and I needed him to be strong.' Mr Roncolato said the last call he made before he was rescued was at 5.46am. Two firefighters entered his flat at 6am and told him they would walk behind and in front of him as they attempted to descend the stairs. He said: 'I put on Christopher's goggles and my rucksack, pulled the zip up on my jacket and placed a cap on my head. 'One of the firemen took off my cap and placed a big wet towel over me instead. I was also given a smaller wet towel to hold over my mouth and nose. They said 'are you ready? Let's go!'. 'I was one of the lucky ones, especially after being trapped for so long. I could have so easily been one of the 72 people that needlessly died.' Inquiry chairman Sir Martin Moore-Bick thanked Mr Roncolato for his evidence. He said: 'If I may say so, you've given your evidence in a very clear and careful way, rather reflecting the calm way that you approached the terrible circumstances that you faced. 'I'm sure your family who are here are very proud of you, and quite rightly.' In her evidence, Maria De Fatima Alves said she watched the blaze from her friend's balcony, which overlooked the west side of the tower. In a written statement to the inquiry, she said: 'I kept trying to think of something I could do to help but there wasn't anything. 'I felt guilty that we were all watching from our safe house whilst there were still people suffering in the tower.' Mrs Alves said a firefighter told her to tell her family to stay inside their flat and 'to just close all the doors and windows'. Mr Roncolato was told to 'stay put' by emergency services so remained in his flat Residents petitioned to have a concierge reinstated but was told it would 'cost too much' Antonio Roncolato also told the inquiry residents had started a petition to have a concierge reinstated, which had been removed following the tower's refurbishment. He said: 'We would have liked to have it but that would have implemented more costs, that's what the team would say to us.' In his written statement he also said the block's Tenant Management Organisation (TMO) removed a mechanism from his new front door that mean it would stay open unless it was 'physically closed'. Mr Roncolato said he had a new door fitted five to six years prior to the blaze but found it 'heavy and difficult to open'. He told the inquiry that after he had reported this to the TMO, they came and 'cut off a chain' which held the door to the frame 'which made it much lighter'. He said that he was given 'zero advice' about whether it was sensible to cut off the chain of such a door and that the London Fire Brigade didn't inspect his door after the chain was removed. Advertisement Mrs Alves had escaped the fire before her husband, Manuel Miguel and her children, Tiago and Ines, and had asked a firefighter if it was safe to stay in the building. She recalled in her written statement seeing the mother of Jessica Urbano running towards the tower 'screaming 'my daughter's inside'. Jessica was one of the 72 people who died in the fire on June 14 last year. Mrs Alves recalled how her husband phoned his friend Marcio Gomes, warning him to get out of the tower. The inquiry has previously heard how Mr Gomes, his heavily-pregnant wife Andreia and their two young girls made a desperate escape bid from the 21st floor where they lived, along with their neighbour and her young daughter. They made it out alive but their baby son, Logan, was stillborn. Mrs Alves added: 'I still think about what I could've done more. I often wonder if I had stayed at the tower and buzzed people to wake them up and get them out whether more lives could have been saved. 'This guilt haunts me. The whole night was like a horror film which I couldn't believe was happening, and I still can't believe it happened. 'I will never be able to forget what I saw that night. It has left a devastating impact on me, my family and the community.' Mrs Alves was asked if there was anything else about the night she felt would be important for the chairman to know. She replied quietly: 'The people's lives could be saved, if they were evacuated.' It later emerged that the inquiry has received a total of 370,268 documents. Some 25,974 relate to the probes first phase, and of these 73% (19,006) have been made available to core participants. There are 343 phase one documents yet to be released, which are currently being redacted where necessary. The inquiry has a further 344,294 documents that do not relate to the first phase. In her written statement to the public inquiry, Ms Moses said that the fire wrapped itself around the building, almost like a whip on the night of the Grenfell Tower blaze. Ms Moses watched the fire spread across the building from outside after she had escaped from her flat on the fourth floor of the tower. In her statement she said: It happened so quickly. She also said in the written statement that she saw a baby blue flame that she thought could have been a gas explosion and could feel the intense heat from the building on her face as she stood on the green outside. 7 "E/3t3tGF ISIS mastermind Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi's youngest son has been killed in a Russian airstrike, it has been claimed. Baghdadi's son died in a bombing raid on a 'terrorist hideout' in a Syrian village on September 22, according to an Iraqi commander. It comes just months after ISIS said another of the terror chief's five children was killed fighting for the jihadists as a group of fanatics stormed a thermal power plant in Syria. The youngest son of ISIS mastermind Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi (pictured) has been killed in a Russian airstrike, it has been claimed Sunday's claim that another of Baghdadi's sons had been killed was made by Jabbar al-Mamori, a commander in the paramilitary Popular Mobilization Forces, Iraqi News reported. He is said to have told Baghdad Today: 'We received certain information that the youngest son of IS chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was killed in an airstrike conducted by Russia on a terrorist hideout in a Syrian village two days ago.' The commander did not name Baghdadi's son or give his age. In July, ISIS claimed another of his sons, Hudhayfah al-Badri, was killed during an attack on a power plant in Homs. Al-Badri was killed in an 'operation against the Nussayriyyah and the Russians' the group said in a statement alongside a photo of a young man holding an assault rifle. Hudhayfah al-Badri, one of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi's five children, was killed fighting against Russian and regime soldiers in Syria earlier this year, ISIS claimed Nussayriyyah is the term used by ISIS for the Alawite religious minority sect of President Bashar al-Assad. ISIS declared a cross-border 'caliphate' in Syria and Iraq in 2014, seizing a third of Iraq during a sweeping offensive. The jihadists have since lost much ground to separate counter-offensives by Syrian and Iraqi forces as well as US-led operations, and the jihadist presence is now confined to a few holdouts. The group's leader Baghdadi, who has been pronounced dead on several occasions, is understood to be hiding in Syrian territory close to the Iraqi border, an Iraqi intelligence official said in May. Baghdadi was said to move around with only a small group of followers Originally from Iraq, Baghdadi has been dubbed the 'most wanted man on the planet' and the United States is offering a $25 million reward for his capture. Last September, in the last voice message attributed to Baghdadi, the ISIS leader called on his fighters in Syria and Iraq to 'resist' their enemies. He had four children with his first wife and a son with his second wife. Advertisement Melania Trump became emotional as she visited a 17th Century slave trading outpost in Ghana on Wednesday on the second day of her solo tour of Africa. The First Lady arrived at Cape Coast Castle in the early afternoon after a two-and-half hour drive from the capital Accra where she stayed on Tuesday night. First, she sought permission to tour the UNESCO site from the local Fante tribe whose young members gave her a warm reception. She then spent around an hour at the castle, touring its dungeons and walking through the sacred 'Door of No Return' which thousands of slaves passed through in the 1800s before boarding cargo ships which ferried them across the Atlantic to the Americas to work for white masters. Scroll down for video Melania spent around an hour at the Cape Coast Castle which was used in the 18th Century as a slave trading outpost. She was somber as she toured the site and described it afterwards as a 'very emotional' experience Speaking after the visit, Melania said she it was a 'very emotional' experience. 'I will never forget (the) incredible experience and the stories I heard. 'The dungeons that I saw, it's really something that people should see and experience,' she said. Later, she described her day as 'so impactful', writing in a tweet: 'My visit to Cape Coast castle was a solemn reminder of a time in our history that should never be forgotten. 'Thank you to Chief Osabarima Kwesi Atta & the chieftains for the warm welcome & cultural ceremony.' For 10 minutes, Melania stood in what was used as a cramped dungeon to keep male slaves before they were ferried overseas. Dressed down in a pair of beige pants, a $595 Veronica Beard military jacket and a pair of $50 Zara faux-snakeskin loafers, she was somber as she walked through the crumbling site. She was more dressed up earlier in the day while visiting the local tribe chiefs. There, she added a pair of brown Manolo Blahnik shoes and a leather belt to her look. First Lady Melania Trump hugs a young member of the Fante tribe as she seeks permission to visit the Cape Coast Castle in Ghana, a former slave trading outpost, on Wednesday morning Before going to the castle, Melania sought permission for the visit from chiefs of the local Fante tribe. She was more dressed up for their meeting in a pair of pointed stilettos and with a thick brown leather belt around her $595 jacket A young member of the tribe presents the First Lady with a bouquet of local flowers before she leaves for the castle tour Melania Trump shakes hands with members of the Fante tribe as she makes her way through a receiving line at the Emintsimadze palace on the Cape Coast of Ghana on Wednesday morning Melania shakes hands with Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II in front of other members of the Fate tribe on Wednesday at the Emintsimadze Palace. The tribe erected a US flag as a symbol of hospitality before her visit Melania Trump takes a seat next to Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, chief of the regional tribe at the Emintsimadze Palace The First Lady was excited by the meeting and beamed as she stood beside Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, the chief of the regional tribe at the Emintsimadze Palace The First Lady poses for a portrait with Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II and other members of the tribe The First Lady was enamored with one of the youngest members of the tribe who held her hand during a photo-call at the end of the visit The First Lady was welcomed with cultural ceremony into the 'Obama Hall' named after former president Barack Obama's 2009 visit The tribe erected a banner welcoming the First Lady and draped US and Ghanaian flags over the palace walls President Obama visited the castle in 2009 and said it was an example of the evil humans are capable of. It was originally built by Dutch and Swedish tradesman but was captured by the British in 1664. Cape Coast Castle is one of the largest forts which was used to facilitate the Atlantic Slave Trade of the 16th and 17th Century. The site was first used to trade from but became a housing facility for enslaved Africans in the 1700s and 1800s after the dawn of the Atlantic slave trade. When slavery was outlawed by the British in 1807, the building was put to use as administrative space and later had a court and school in its grounds. It remained in the hands of the British until 1957, when Ghana gained independence and then became a museum. The coastal castle is one of dozens that was used along West Africa's Gold Coast to house and then trade slaves across the Atlantic in the 1800s. The First Lady was given a private tour on Wednesday morning At the castle, Melania walked through the Door of No Return, so named by the thousands of slaves who passed through it from their dungeons to board ships that would take them overseas to become enslaved to white masters in the Americas Museum director Kwesi Essel-Blankson explains the route the slaves were forced to take from their dungeons through the halls of the castle before passing through the door to board ships and be taken to the Americas The castle is now a museum and UNESCO World Heritage site. It was in the hands of the British until 1957 but was reclaimed when Ghana gained independence The slaves were take from the dungeons onto boats waiting for them in the sea then onto larger cargo ships to be ferried over to America One of the dungeons where hundreds of slaves were held huddled together in squalid conditions is pictured 'YOU ALMOST FEEL AS IF THE WALLS CAN SPEAK': CAPE COAST CASTLE AND ITS MORBID ROLE IN THE ATLANTIC SLAVE TRADE An illustration of Cape Coast Castle during The Ashanti War of 1890. The British remained in power of it until after it abolished slavery in 1833 The Cape Coast Castle is a haunting reminder of the millions of slaves who were captured, imprisoned and then shipped out of Africa by white masters in the 16th and 17th Century. It is where they were held against their will in squalid conditions for months at a time before being packed onto cargo ships bound for the Americas- 'the new world' which tore them from their families and homeland and where they were sentenced to live out their deaths serving others in captivity. One of dozens scattered along West Africa's Gold Coast, the castle was originally built not as a slave-trading hub but for Swedish colonizers to transport timber and gold out of Africa in 1653. Until then, it had bee used a trading lodge by the Portuguese. In 1650, after the Swedes established control on the Gold Coast, it was fortified under the watch of Hendrick Caerloff who had been employed by the Swedish Africa Company. Caerloff had previously served in the Dutch army and then the Danish West India Company. In 1950, he was employed by the Swedes to boost its presence on the Gold Coast and he negotiated with local chiefs from the Efutu tribe to buy the plot were the fort would be built. Originally, the fort was called Carlosborg Fort after King Charles X of Sweden. It was used by the Swedes to trade until 1657 when Denmark took control of the region. A depiction of slavery that is housed in the castle's museum now. 1500 slaves were held in its dungeons at a time between the 16th and 18th Century For five years, it was fought over by the Danes, Dutch and Swedes before the British seized control in 1664 in the second Anglo-Dutch war. The Brits renamed it Cape Coast Castle. The slave trade was already slowly growing at the time after being started by the Portuguese in the 15th Century. They had started capturing West Africans after finally reaching the continent and bringing them back to Europe but it did not boom until the 17th Century, when a sudden growth in sugar plantations in the Caribbean spiked the demand for labor. Britain became involved by first capturing slaves to sell in Spanish colonies in the Americas but its role grew exponentially with the sugar rush and the formation of the Royal Africa Company in 1672 which gave a monopoly to ports in England. The formality of it launched what became known later as the Triangular Slave Trade. It operated in three steps - European boats traveled to Africa where they exchanged goods for slaves. They then took the slaves to the Americas and exchanged them for sought-after commodities that were not available in Europe including rum, gun powder and textiles. They would then load ships with their new goods and return to Europe, having deposited the slaves to their new owners in the Americas. Cape Coast Castle was one of the largest in size along the Gold Coast of West Africa. At any given time, there would be 1500 men and women being held in its dungeons. The population of its occupants was ordinarily two thirds men, one third women and they were held in separate dungeons. There were no windows or facilities for the enslaved Africans to go to the bathroom. 'Urine and feces was often strewn on the floors of the dungeons. Slaves would be held there for up to 12 weeks at a time before being traded for goods and loaded onto the cargo ships to be taken to America. A portrait of men and women sitting on the steps of Cape Coast Castle in 1870 when it had returned to being used as a traditional trade post for the British after the abolition of slavery Their final voyage was through the 'door of no return' which led from the dungeon to the seaboard side of the castle where boats would be waiting to take them onto cargo ships bound for the 'new world'. When Britain abolishes slavery in 1833, the castle went back to being a trading post for ordinary commodities. It was then turned into a military training center and later became a court and a school. It was finally handed over to the people of Ghana in 1957 when the country gained independence and it is now a museum and UNESCO world heritage site. During a tour in 2009, President Obama said of the site: 'You almost feel as if the walls can speak. You try to project yourself into these incredibly harrowing moments. 'Obviously there's a sense of what a profound sorrow must've been felt as people were hauled off into the great unknown.' Today, the castle is a museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site which attracts high profile visitors Advertisement At any given time, 1500 slaves were held in horrifying conditions inside. Men and women were held in separate dungeons, crammed in by the hundreds with nowhere to go to the bathroom or get fresh air. They spent between six and 12 weeks in the castle before being shipped to 'the new world'. Obama and other former US presidents also visited Elmina Castle, another of the slave trading outposts and what is considered Ghana's official 'Door of No Return'. Melania and museum director Kwesi Essel-Blankson tour the castle on Wednesday morning The museum director points out a grave in the courtyard of the castle as the pair continue their tour Melania and museum director Kwesi Essel-Blankson talk at the 'door of no return' on Wednesday. The First Lady described it as a 'special place' The First Lady was given a tour by museum educator Kwesi Essel-Blankson. She described the visit as 'very emotional' The First Lady lays a wreath at the castle during her visit on Wednesday morning The First Lady takes a moment to reflect in front of a wreath at the Cape Coast Castle in Ghana on Wednesday morning Melania signed the visitor book before leaving the castle. She spent an hour at the site in total Melania wore a pair of $50 Zara faux python loafers for the castle visit after changing out of a pair of high heels Melania's visit to Ghana has not been met with the same enthusiasm as Obama's was in 2009. Locals said on Tuesday that 'you wouldn't know' about Melania's trip unless you were 'following the news' whereas residents packed the streets and stood on rooftops to catch a glimpse of Obama - 'the son of Africa' - nine years ago during his visit. 'The interest is very, very muted and subdued. 'There are a lot of people (in Ghana) who are extremely indifferent about this visit,' political commentator Etse Sikanku told AFP. With Obama, he said 'it was like a big party, everybody was into it, people stood on rooftops, everybody wanted to see Barack Obama, the son of Africa.' Melania described the castle as 'something that people should see and experience'. The site was where slaves were held before being shipped out of Africa During the visit, she also met members of the local Fante tribe. She is pictured touring the castle with museum director Kwesi Essel-Blankson The castle is now protected by UNESCO as a world heritage site and been drawing high profile visitors, including President Obama who visited during his presidency in 2009, for years The First Lady dressed down for the occasion in some beige pants, a khaki jacket and a pair of $50 Zara faux snakeskin loafers African security officials lined the walls of the fort on Wednesday morning as the First Lady toured it President Obama is pictured visiting the same site in 2009 with his family during his presidency. Locals said there was more excitement about his visit to Ghana than there has been for Melania's Melania's trip is to promote her Be Best campaign and reiterate the US's commitment to distributing aid in Africa. Her spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said on Tuesday: '[Melania] is hoping to visit the countries to learn what their challenges are, and also see where the US is having a positive impact or results. 'To that end, our office has been working closely with USAID [the United States Agency for International Development] and each stop will focus on one or more projects they have been working on within each country. 'The visits will include stops having to do with education, healthcare, some conservation and tourismand as with all that she does through her initiative Be Best, the well-being of children will be her focus.' She will return to Washington DC on October 7. On Tuesday, the First Lady visited the Greater Accra Regional Hospital where she played with children and cuddled babies. She then went to the Presidential Palace to have afternoon tea with the country's First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo. A thrill seeker got the fright of his life when his safety harness came loose hundreds of feet above the ground at an extreme attraction in China. The male tourist was leaping on a series of planks at some 500 feet above the ground when the safety rope suddenly became unlatched from his back. A video of the incident has become trending in China, and authority said the incident was caused by park workers who had not operated the facility properly. A trending video shows a man jumping from plank to plank on a dangerous bridge in China The safety hook suddenly breaks when he does the last jump at the theme park in Chongqing The terrifying footage was filmed at the Wansheng Ordovician, a theme park in China's Chongqing city which is renowned for its extreme activities. The incident occurred on October 1, the first day of the week-long National Day Holiday in China when millions of people started their family vacations. The tourist was enjoying an attraction called 'Extreme Leaps' or 'Ji Xian Fei Yue' in Chinese. The Propaganda Bureau of Wansheng Economic Development Zone, which manages the publicity of the area, had previously told Chinese media that the video was a 'marketing stunt'. But the response drew waves of criticism from the public, who accused the authority of evading responsibility. In an updated statement yesterday, the Bureau said that an investigation showed the incident had been caused by the mishandling of the park's workers. The Bureau has ordered the theme park to shut the attraction and another similar attraction, according to the statement on its official social media account. It is said the video was filmed at the Wansheng Ordovician theme park in Chongqing (pictured) The theme park also has a glass bridge which is built on the side of a cliff face at 390ft high 'Extreme Leaps' is one of the most popular attractions at Wansheng Ordovician. Suspended 150 metres (492 feet) above the ground, it consists of six planks placed on a metal frame over a cliff. There is a gap between each two planks and tourists must hop from one plank to another to reach the other side. The gap between the planks comes in different widths, and the widest one is 1.5 metres (five feet). There is no safety net underneath the dangerous 'bridge'. Participants are attached to the safety wires above them by a rope. MailOnline has contacted Wansheng Ordovician theme park for comments, and is awaiting a reply. Another popular attraction in the park is a giant swing that rock at 1,000 feet high over a cliff The park's cliff-side swings have been a star attraction for the park since they opened last year Wansheng Ordovician theme park boasts a number of other extreme activities and facilities. Last year, it unveiled a transparent walkway which extends more than 80 metres (262 feet) from a cliff face above a vertigo-inducing 120-metre (390-foot) drop. There is also a giant swing with 60ft long ropes, which is installed on the edge of a cliff at a whopping 300 metres (1,000 feet) high. The body of an Ohio woman who went missing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park last month has been recovered, authorities said Tuesday. Mitzie Sue 'Susan' Clements went missing while hiking with her daughter near Clingmans Dome in North Carolina, on September 25. Clements, 53, became separated from her daughter around 5pm a week ago, and was reported missing shortly after, park spokeswoman Julena Campbell said. The body of Mitzie Sue 'Susan' Clements, 53, was found after she went missing September 25 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, officials said Officials had scoured the immediate area throughout the night of September 25 but without success. The following day they recruited a crew of experienced searchers to hunt for Clements and interview any potential witnesses. The search group were faced with adverse weather including rain, wind and fog while they hunted for Clements in the densely wooded, mountainous park, which stretches across Tennessee and North Carolina. Helicopters, drones and special canine teams were all employed during the search and telecommunications company Verizon brought in a portable cell tower as cellphone service in the area was extremely poor. Satellite GPS units were used to mark which areas had already been searched, with more than 100 people from 45 agencies involved in looking for Clements. Scientists from Oak Ridge National Laboratory took aerial photographs from a drone, assigned coordinates to each pixel, and searched the images for colors such as the gray in Clements' shoes. Clements lived in Cleves, Ohio, about 16 miles northwest of Cincinnati. She had three daughters and was described as a 'wonderful mother' Campbell, the park spokeswoman, said officials also consulted doctors looking for clues about the type of behavior Clements might exhibit under the circumstances. 'There's a lot that goes into managing a search, a lot of technology and psychological science as to what people do in these situations,' Campbell said Tuesday. Clements lived in Cleves, Ohio about 16 miles northwest of Cincinnati. She worked an accounting technician in the administration department of the City of Cincinnati's Metropolitan Sewer District,USA Today reported. She previously worked for UC Health and Trinity Health System, both in the Cincinnati area. Cincinnati Councilman P.G. Sittenfeld said Clements was a 'beloved mother, friend and longtime employee of the city of Cincinnati.' 'We will pull together to do everything we can to support her family, friends and co-workers during this time of grieving,' he said. 'My colleagues and I, and the whole city workforce, will also ensure we find a meaningful way to remember and honor her.' Clements (left) was hiking with her youngest daughter when she went missing. One of her other daughters, Elizabeth, created a GoFundMe page on Tuesday to help the family cover the costs of the search effort One of her co-workers, David Stephens, told The Enquirer that Clements was a cheerful person, with a friendly greeting at the ready for 'everyone she saw in the office.' 'To know someone that something so terrible happened to is awful,' Stephens wrote in a message. 'I imagine it will affect us all in some way, especially the folks in business services, her work group.' Clements' family said she was a 'wonderful mother to three children.' She was hiking with her youngest daughter when she went missing. One of her other daughters, Elizabeth, created a GoFundMe on Tuesday to help the family cover the costs of the search effort. As of Tuesday night, the campaign had raised over $4,000. 'Since my family is from the Cincinnati, Ohio area, we have decided to start a GoFundMe page to help cover the unexpected travel expenses that come with staying in the area for this search process,' she wrote. Search teams involving more than 100 people battled against adverse weather and poor cellphone service in their hunt for Ms. Clements 'We are so incredibly thankful for the many organizations helping make this search possible, and for each individual search member for being so kind, supportive, and positive throughout this entire process.' Park officials said earlier that no suspicious circumstances surrounded Clements' disappearance and they did not alter this position immediately after her body was found on Tuesday. 'Our hearts are with the family and friends of Ms. Clements,' the park said in a press release. 'The park would like to extend our appreciation to the many agencies and organizations that participated in the search effort.' Himwanth Ramkishun, 54, is accused of raping a pensioner with dementia at a care home where his wife was the boss A laundryman accused of raping a dementia sufferer in a care home was caught by a condom found and handed to the police by the manager - who is also his wife, a court heard today. Himwanth Ramkishun, 54, is accused of leaving the contraceptive behind after allegedly carrying out the sex attack on a 76-year-old woman at the home in Devon. It was later recovered by carers and given to the defendant's wife Ivorine Ramkishun, who was also the duty manager at the home, a jury was told. Mrs Ramkishun called the police unaware that the condom contained traces of her husband's DNA, prosecutors claim. Ramkishun has gone on trial at Plymouth Crown Court accused of raping the elderly woman. He denies having sex with her at the care home between June 8 and June 11 last year. Ramkishun told police that he accidentally touched the condom after it had been recovered, leaving behind his DNA. Prosecutors claim that he planted two other condoms in coat pockets to try and 'deflect blame'. David Sapiecha, for the Crown Prosecution Service, opened the trial by saying that the woman could not look after herself and could not make 'rational decisions' or consent to sex. He added that staff changing her incontinence pads found the condom on the morning of June 10. Mr Sapiecha said that Mrs Ramkishun was called to recover the item as the duty manager. He added that she took the condom to the office and called the police. The barrister said the contraceptive was forensically tested and found to contain traces of Ramkishun's DNA 'deep inside'. The court heard that Ramkishun had access to all the rooms to sort the laundry. Mr Sapiecha suggested that Ramkishun 'panicked' and put the other packets of condoms in the coats to deflect blame. He told the court said there were no traces of semen but the genetic material could be found in skin cells. He said that the defendant told police he had accidentally put his hand on the condom when it was on a desk in the office. He added that the condom had not been turned inside out and when Ramkishun was challenged about his DNA on the inside, he claimed it was 'impossible'. Mr Sapieca said: 'The reason why he needed to come up with an excuse is that he was the one who had sexual intercourse with her, but she could not give consent, so he raped her.' Carer Sharon Phillips told the court how she and a colleague had initially found the condom while preparing the woman for a bath. She added: 'I initially thought it was a latex glove between her legs. I was fuming to be fair. I called Ivorine, the nurse in charge. 'The rest of the day was a complete blank. It was really surreal.' The court heard that the victim passed away some months after the incident. Ramkishun, of Plymouth, is on bail. The trial continues. Two military airplanes have collided at the main airport in Sudan's capital Khartoum. Video footage shows the Sudanese Air Force planes landing on the same runway, with one crashing into the other at speed. The Soviet-era Antonov aircraft had landed within seconds of each other when the accident occurred, an airport official said. 'Eight people were injured and taken to hospital when two military planes collided at Khartoum airport,' said another official. Crash: The two planes landed at Khartoum airport with one crashing into the back of the other as they went down the runway The Sudanese military is expected to comment on the accident later on Wednesday. Photos of the two planes on the runway, shows one of them appearing to have lost its entire nose section in the crash. The military planes were identified by aviation bloggers as an Antonov An-26 and an Antonov An-32. The planes, made by the Ukrainian aircraft manufacturing company, are primarily used for surveying and transport. The Sudanese Air Force reportedly has eight An-26 and six An-32 airplanes. Wednesday's accident is the third to have hit Sudan's ageing military fleet in less than a month. On September 21, two pilots were killed when their military jet crashed near Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum on the west bank of the Nile. It came days after a military helicopter crashed on landing in Darfur. All passengers were rescued as the helicopter caught fire. Video footage shows the Sudanese Air Force planes landing on the same runway at Khartoum airport in Sudan, with one crashing into the other at speed Closed for business: Khartoum International Airport in the Sudanese capital has been closed Seven terrorists killed in Waziristan: ISPR At least seven terrorists were killed on Tuesday when security forces repulsed a cross border attack in North Waziristan, said the Inter-Services Public Relations. (ISPR). According to a notification issued by the ISPR, the militarys media wing, terrorists opened fire on a Pakistani checkpost in North Waziristan. The Pakistani forces opened retaliatory fire, killing seven terrorists and injuring three others, ISPR stated. In September, nine terrorists were killed and seven security personnel martyred in an intense exchange of fire during an intelligence-based operation in North Waziristans Gharlamai and Spera Kunar Algad areas. In 2014, the Pakistan Army launched a massive military operation, Zarb-e-Azb, in North Waziristan against foreign terrorists and their local cohorts. Lindsey Graham believes President Trump should renominate Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court if his first attempt fails on a senate vote. The South Carolina senator told Fox News's Sean Hannity that he firmly believes Kavanaugh will be confirmed once the FBI wraps up its investigation this week. But pressed over what he would do if the bid fails, he replied: 'I would renominate him and I would take this case to the American people and I'd ask voters.' Sen. @LindseyGrahamSC on if Kavanaugh loses a Senate floor vote: "I would renominate him and I would take this case to the American people." #Hannity pic.twitter.com/9r0rdcaeez Fox News (@FoxNews) October 2, 2018 Lindsey Graham believes that Trump should renominate Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court if his current bid fails, allowing the American people to vote on the issue in November Graham's strategy seems to defy the rationale of the White House, after Trump said he wanted the FBI to finish its investigation 'quickly'. Mitch McConnell, GOP Senate leader, has also been pushing to confirm Kavanaugh quickly, apparently wanting to resolve the issue before the mid-terms roll around. But Graham believes that Kavanaugh's treatment, largely perpetrated at the hands of Senate Democrats, could be a vote-winner for Republicans. 'I would appeal the verdict of the Senate to the ballot box,' he said on Tuesday night. 'This good man should not be destroyed. If you legitimize this process by one vote short, it will be unto the next person. 'I would hate to be the next person nominated, I would feel horrible that we destroyed Kavanaugh.' While Graham has historically been an opponent of Trump, he has come out swinging in defense of his Supreme Court nominee. Graham has become one of Kavanaugh's staunchest critics, accusing the Democrats of 'destroying' a good man as well as subjecting accuser Christine Blasey Ford to scrutiny Kavanaugh has repeatedly denied claims that he sexually abused women while extremely drunk at high school house parties in the 1980s The Senator was among Kavanaugh's staunchest defenders when he gave testimony last week, accusing Democrats of destroying a good man for political gain. 'This is not a job interview. This is hell. This is going to destroy the ability of good people to come forward because of this crap!' he said. He said Democrats used Ford for their own political purposes and that she was as much their victim as the judge. 'Boy, y'all want power. Boy, I hope you never get it. I hope the American people can see through this sham, that you knew about it and you held it. 'You had no intention of protecting Dr. Ford, none! She's as much of a victim as you are,' he noted. Graham has since revealed Trump admired his defense of Kavanaugh which was also praised by his wife Melania. The FBI is due to complete its background check on Kavanaugh this week, before a vote in the senate either late this week or early next. Republicans believe they have the numbers to push it through, but several wavering senators - including Jeff Flake of Arizona - could thwart it. Brett Kavanaugh once described his high school friends as a 'group of obnoxious drunks' in a letter written ahead of a week of partying in a Maryland condo. Kavanaugh made the remark in a handwritten letter to seven of his Georgetown Prep classmates in 1983 as they descended on a property in Ocean City for 'Beach Week'. The letter mostly gives instructions for those arriving at the condo ahead of him, but also includes several off-the-cuff remarks that have taken on new significance after he was accused of assaulting multiple women while drunk. Brett Kavanaugh wrote to seven of his Georgetown Prep classmates in 1983 as they prepared to descend on a Maryland condo for 'Beach Week', saying: 'We're loud obnoxious drunks with prolific pukers among us' A section of the letter Kavanaugh wrote to seven of his Georgetown Prep classmates in 1983 as they descended on a property in Ocean City for 'Beach Week', including a suggestion the neighbors should be warned of 'loud, obnoxious drunks' heading their way The existence of the letter was uncovered by the New York Times, which printed two photocopied pages of it on Tuesday. In it, Kavanaugh expresses his fear that his group of friends could be kicked out of the pad they had rented to host their raucous celebrations. He makes it clear that limits will have to be placed on other boys coming along from school, saying: 'We might have to give the boot or else we might get it ourselves.' But, as far as women are concerned, his says: 'I think we are unanimous that any girls we can beg to stay there are welcomed with open... Anyway, I think we're all set.' He the adds: 'Remember that the eight of us are in charge - we get the beds and we kick people out - no one else. 'The danger of eviction is great and that would suck because of the money and because this week has big potential (interpret as [you] wish.)' In a post-script, he says: 'It would probably be a good idea on Saturday the 18th to warn the neighbors that we're loud, obnoxious drunks with prolific pukers among us. Advise them to go about 30 miles.' The Times contacted Kavanaugh about the letter, who confirmed that he wrote it ahead of 'Beach Week' in the summer of 1983, but refused to comment further. The letter has the initials 'PJ' at the top, likely a reference to Patrick J. Smyth, a friend from high school who remains close to Kavanaugh to this day. Kavanaugh is pictured standing second right in a photograph taken on the beach with seven of his Georgetown classmates, though it is not clear if this vacation is the same as the one mentioned in his letter It is not known exactly who the other seven recipients are, though it likely included Mark Judge, another friend from high school who has been accused of being present when Kavanaugh carried out his alleged assaults at similar events. It is also significant that the letter is signed 'Bart', a name that Judge has used in his memoirs to describe a hard-drinking friend. Judge wrote that a friend by the name of Bart O'Kavanaugh had once 'puked in someone's car' and 'passed out on his way back from a party' while describing a culture of 'blackout drinking' at high school. Senators grilled Kavanaugh over the name when he came before the committee and he claimed he didn't know who Judge was referring to. Both Smyth and Judge have been questioned by FBI agents conducting a background check into Kavanaugh following Christine Blasey Ford's claims that he attempted to rape her at a high school party. Ford came forward with her allegations after Kavanaugh was nominated to the Supreme Court, believing it was her duty to make her story known. Also questioned by agents is Deborah Ramirez, who says Kavanaugh exposed himself to her at a similar party, also in the 80s. Kavanaugh's history of drinking and partying in high school has come under scrutiny after Christine Blasey Ford (left) accused him of attempted rape at a gathering, and Deborah Ramirez (right) accused him of exposing himself at a party The letter is also signed Bart, a name which Kavanaugh's friend Mark Judge (pictured together with Judge on the left) has used in his memoirs to describe a hard-drinking friend who once 'puked in someone's car' and 'passed out on his way back from a party' Agents are due to hand a report on Kavanaugh to senators this week, who will then vote on whether to confirm him to the lifetime post. Senator Jeff Flake, who halted the nomination process so the FBI could investigate Kavanaugh, has indicated that he would vote 'no' if it could be proven that the judge had lied in his testimony. That makes the letter problematic for Kavanaugh, who told Amy Klobuchar during his hearing that he had never drunk so much he forgot part or all of what happened the night before. In a testy exchange, Kavanaugh asked Klobuchar whether she had ever blacked out due to drinking, to which she replied: 'I have no drinking problem, Judge.' He responded: 'Yeah, nor do I.' Wavering Senators Cory Gardner of Colorado, Deb Fischer of Nebraska, Shelley Moore Capito and Joe Manchin of West Virginia, Alaska's Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan have also faced pressure to vote 'no' on Kavanaugh. Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell has said that he is 'certain' the FBI report into Kavanaugh will be completed this week, with a vote shortly after. Republicans are keen to have the issue done and dusted before the November mid-terms, amid the fear that both the House and Senate could flip back to Democrat control, leaving Trump a lame duck. Indeed, Trump claims his only stipulation to the FBI when he ordered the investigation was that it be completed quickly. A security guard has been arrested after sparking a 'spy' alert by taking photos on board the super yacht of Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. The man boarded 'Eclipse' on Monday evening while the 340million vessel was docked for a refit in Hamburg, Germany's biggest port. Chelsea FC owner Abramovich's bodyguards are said to have feared he was a spy after catching him taking photos on the vessel and alerted German police. But the suspect turned out to be a 21-year-old security guard working at the shipyard. The man was reportedly on his way to the toilet on board the ship and decided to take a few pictures in the lavish interior. A security guard has been arrested after sparking a 'spy' alert by taking photos on board the super yacht (pictured) of Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. The man boarded 'Eclipse' on Monday evening while the 340million vessel was docked for a refit in Germany's biggest port of Hamburg Bodyguards feared he was a spy after catching him taking photos on the vessel and alerted German police. Chelsea FC owner Abramovich is pictured abive He is now being investigated on possible trespassing charges. Eclipse was delivered to Abramovich in December 2010 and is officially registered in Hamilton, the capital of Bermuda. At 533ft, Eclipse is the world's second-largest privately owned motor yacht behind the 590ft Azzam owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The suspect turned out to be a 21-year-old security guard working at the shipyard. Eclipse (pictured) was delivered to Abramovich in December 2010 and is officially registered in Hamilton, the capital of Bermuda Eclipse features two helipads, 24 guest cabins, two pools, several jacuzzis, an on-board club, a submarine and three fast launch boats to carry passengers ashore in smaller ports. The vessel reportedly requires 70 staff members to operate it and serve guests. Celebrities including Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry are among those who have partied on the boat, which is reputed to cost 50 million each year. Arthur Collins has lost a Court of Appeal challenge against his 20-year jail sentence The ex-boyfriend of reality TV star Ferne McCann has today lost a bid to reduce his 20-year jail sentence for hurling acid over revellers in a packed nightclub. Arthut Collins hurled the corrosive substance over a crowd on the dance floor at Mangle E8 in Dalston, east London, after a 'gangland war' spiralled out of control. Sixteen people suffered chemical burn injuries and three people were temporarily blinded. Collins, the father of Ms McCann's baby daughter Sunday, told his trial he did not know the bottle contained acid. He claimed he believed it was a liquid date rape drug which he had snatched from two men after 'overhearing them planning to spike a girl's drink.' But earlier this year he admitted to consultant psychiatrist Dr Philip Joseph that he knew the bottle contained acid. A jury convicted him of five counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and nine counts of actual bodily harm. In February it was revealed the thug had hired a 50,000 leading criminal barrister to help reduce his jail term. But today, three judges at the Court of Appeal in London took less than ten minutes to reject Collins' appeal, arguing it 'the severe sentence was fully justified.' Collins told his trial he had been out celebrating the news of his partner Ferne McCann's pregnancy, which they had announced to her family the previous day CCTV from outside the club shows Collins shortly before he launched the attack Sixteen people suffered chemical burn injuries and three people were temporarily blinded in the sickening attack Collins told his trial he had been out celebrating the news of Ms McCann's pregnancy, which they had announced to her family the previous day. He had sent a text to his sister a week before the attack saying he had acid in the boot of his car. The iMessage said: 'Tell mum to mind that little hand wash in my car acid'. Giving evidence, Collins claimed he was referring to a hair loss shampoo he kept in his car. After the incident, he went on the run and was not caught until several days later hiding out in a house in Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire. In January, Collins was jailed for another eight months for using a smuggled mobile phone to call Ms McCann from his prison cell CCTV images from inside the club, shortly before Collins throws the acid He has previous convictions including threatening words, possession of cocaine and assault, and was still subject to a suspended sentence for punching a man at a nightclub when he carried out the acid attack. In January, he was jailed for another eight months for using a smuggled mobile phone to call Ms McCann from his prison cell. Lord Justice Simon, announcing today's decision, said: 'We accept that this was a severe sentence, but these were exceptionally serious offences, and the severe sentence was fully justified.' Theresa May today spoke movingly for the first time about the death of a 19-year-old relative at Passchendaele as she marked the 100th anniversary of the First World War. The Prime Minister revealed how her father's cousin Hubert Grant perished 'in the horror of the trenches' in 1917 - a year before the conflict with Germany ended. Opening her conference speech in Birmingham she paid tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice - including Mr Grant - and thanked the 'extraordinary generation' of men and women who rebuilt Britain after the war ended. Theresa May today spoke movingly of the death of a 19-year-old relative at Passchendaele at the beginning of her conference speech in Birmingham today Theresa May pictured with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at Ypres where she looked for the name of her father's cousin Hubert Grant on the Menin Gate She said: 'We remember the young men who left their homes to fight and died in the mud in the horror of the trenches. We remember the sailors who shovelled the coal into hellfire furnaces in the bowels of battleships. We remember the selflessness of a remarkable generation whose legacy is the freedom we enjoy today. Theresa May in 1961 with her mother Zaidee and father Rev Hubert Brasier, whose cousin Hubert Grant died at Passchendaele 'I think of Hubert Grant - my father's cousin. Hubert fought and died at Passchendaele at the age of just 19. Last year at the service to mark the centenary of that battle I took a moment to find his name on the Menin Gate alongside thousands of his comrades. We will remember them'. Mrs May represented Britain alongside leaders of Germany and Belgium in the Belgian town of Ypres to mark the Battle of Passchendaele in a show of solidarity last year. Also known as the Third Battle of Ypres, it was one of the bloodiest battles of World War One, leading to the loss of more than 460,000 German and British-allied soldiers between July and December 1917. The British and Belgium royal families including King Philippe of Belgium and Britains Prince William helped lead the commemorations. In a highly personal speech today Mrs May also told how the death of her goddaughter from cancer made her determined to fund the battle against the disease. The Prime Minister's voice broke with emotion as she told the hall at the party's conference in Birmingham how cancer had touched her life. She said: 'Cancer can strike any of us at any time. A few years ago my goddaughter was diagnosed with cancer. 'She underwent treatment and it seemed to be working, but then the cancer came back. 'Last summer, she sent me a text to tell me she was hoping to see another Christmas, but she didn't make it. Theresa May told today how her goddaughter died from cancer after being diagnosed three years ago She said her goddaughter told her she wanted to see one more Christmas but died too soon She continued: 'Half of us will be diagnosed with cancer, all of us know someone who has been. 'Survival rates are increasing, but we're lagging behind other countries, so today I can announce a new cancer strategy.' She said she wants to increase early detection rates and make sure doctors have the most up to date equipment to tackle the disease. In a more personal speech than the public have become used to from Mrs May, she also praised the NHS for the treatment she received for her diabetes. Mrs May also told the conference that Communities Secretary James Brokenshire received 'outstanding' NHS care when he was treated for cancer. She said the NHS embodies the principles of the Conservatives and announced a new cancer strategy funded through money to mark the service's 70th birthday. The Prime Minister tried a more personal approach in her speech in Birmingham today Mrs May said: 'The key to boosting your chance of surviving cancer is early diagnosis.' She added: 'We will increase the early detection rate from one-in-two today, to three-in-four by 2028.' She said the age for screening for bowel cancer would be lowered from 60 to 50 and more would be invested in the latest scanners. More rapid diagnostic centres will be built, she added. 'This will be a step-change in how we diagnose cancer,' she said. 'It will mean that by 2028, 55,000 more people will be alive five years after their diagnosis compared to today. Every life saved means precious extra years with friends and family.' Theresa May has told how the death of her goddaughter from cancer made her determined to fund the battle against the disease. Teresa Brasier was the child of one of the Prime Ministers cousins from her fathers side of the family and died last December aged 47. Miss Brasier lived in a miners cottage in Leadhills, South Lanarkshire, according to tributes paid to her online following her death from ovarian cancer. Yesterday the Prime Minister's voice broke with emotion as she told the hall at the party's conference in Birmingham how cancer had touched her life. Miss Brasier studied at the Royal College of Music and the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama and had played with Scottish Ballet and in shows including The Phantom of the Opera. Teresa Brasier (pictured) was the child of one of the Prime Ministers cousins from her fathers side of the family and died last December aged 47 Theresa May told today how her goddaughter died from cancer after being diagnosed three years ago She was a counsellor and psychotherapist specialising in working with deaf adults. She also directed Leadhills Silver Band, taught the violin and enjoyed skiing. Miss Brasier worked with Drake Music Scotland, a charity which aims to transform lives through music. Its patrons include percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie, who is profoundly deaf. Miss Brasier held a 50th birthday party in the village hall before her death despite not yet being 48. The online tributes named her partner as Mary Bell. Mrs May told delegates yesterday: 'Cancer can strike any of us at any time. A few years ago my goddaughter was diagnosed with cancer. 'She underwent treatment and it seemed to be working, but then the cancer came back. 'Last summer, she sent me a text to tell me she was hoping to see another Christmas, but she didn't make it. She continued: 'Half of us will be diagnosed with cancer, all of us know someone who has been. 'Survival rates are increasing, but we're lagging behind other countries, so today I can announce a new cancer strategy.' She said her goddaughter told her she wanted to see one more Christmas but died too soon She said she wants to increase early detection rates and make sure doctors have the most up to date equipment to tackle the disease. In a more personal speech than the public have become used to from Mrs May, she also praised the NHS for the treatment she received for her diabetes. Mrs May also told the conference that Communities Secretary James Brokenshire received 'outstanding' NHS care when he was treated for cancer. She said the NHS embodies the principles of the Conservatives and announced a new cancer strategy funded through money to mark the service's 70th birthday. Mrs May said: 'The key to boosting your chance of surviving cancer is early diagnosis.' She added: 'We will increase the early detection rate from one-in-two today, to three-in-four by 2028.' She said the age for screening for bowel cancer would be lowered from 60 to 50 and more would be invested in the latest scanners. More rapid diagnostic centres will be built, she added, in what she called a 'step-change in how we diagnose cancer'. 'It will mean that by 2028, 55,000 more people will be alive five years after their diagnosis compared to today. Every life saved means precious extra years with friends and family.' The Prime Minister tried a more personal approach in her speech in Birmingham today Responding to the speech, Macmillan Cancer Supports Moira Fraser said: 'An early diagnosis can make a radical difference to someones survival chances, treatment options and quality of life, and ambitions set out by the Prime Minister today have real potential to improve, and even save, lives. 'But to fulfil pledges like these tomorrow, we must address fundamental challenges in cancer care today, and without a costed plan to grow and sustain numbers of doctors and nurses to deliver these aims, it simply will not be possible.' This is the shocking moment a woman is threatened and verbally abused for walking down a street in Iran without wearing a headscarf. Video footage shows a young woman at an unknown location in Iran, bravely flaunting the country's conservative Islamic hijab laws. The head scarf has been a mandatory dress requirement for women in Iran since the Islamic Revolution in 1979. Shocking: The unknown man shouts abuse after a woman as she walks down a street in Iran without a headscarf covering her hair The video, published by women's rights campaigners My Stealthy Freedom sees the woman walk down the street with her head uncovered, and a man shouting at her. He accosts her, demanding that she puts her headscarf on and asks her: 'Do you want me to touch you?' He then calls her 'a piece of garbage' and 'w****' as she walks away from him. She turns around and replies; 'You are the garbage, you are the w**** ', while the man continues to shout insults after her. Posting the video on Facebook, My Stealthy Freedom wrote: 'through campaign, we will keep on exposing this violence that Iranian women have been exposed to for the past 40 years.' Threats: Video footage published on social media shows a young woman bravely flaunting the country's conservative Islamic hijab laws Fundamentalist: The unknown man accosts the woman and her friend, demanding that she puts her headscarf on and calls her a prostitute The movement, founded by journalist and campaigner Masih Alinejad, is fighting Iran's Islamic law, which requires women to wear a headscarf and long clothes that cover the arms and legs. Ms Alinejad also launched the social media hashtag White Wednesdays, encouraging women to flout regulations posting pictures and videos of themselves without the hijabs online on the third day of the week. The Islamic dress code, in place since the 1979 revolution, considers veiling obligatory for any female above 13 in Iran and says they should cover themselves from head to toe while disavowing any figure-hugging dress. Breaking the rules can result in fines of up to 500,000 rials (17) and up to two months in prison. The head scarf has been a mandatory dress requirement for women in Iran since the Islamic Revolution in 1979 President Hassan Rouhani, who came to power in 2013 promising a more moderate stance, has previously said it is not the job of police to enforce religious rules such as those forcing women to cover their hair. But in April 2016, officials said there were 7,000 undercover morality police reporting on things like 'bad hijab' - a blanket term usually referring to un-Islamic dress by women. Figures are rarely given, but Tehran's traffic police said in late 2015 they had dealt with 40,000 cases of bad hijab in cars, where women often let their headscarves drop around their necks. These cases generally led to fines and a temporary impounding of the vehicle. New images have revealed the tiny margin between a US Navy destroyer and a Chinese warship sent to head it off in the South China sea during a tense standoff on Sunday. The confrontation between the two navy vessels took place near disputed territories in the remote Spratly Islands. China claims nearly all of the South China Sea, though Taiwan, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam all claim parts of it. Scroll down for video The USS Decatur (left) swerved to avoid the Chinese warship, PRC 170 (right) in the South China Sea on September 30 New photos released by the U.S Navy show the tiny 45 yard (40m) distance between the two warships Carl Schuster, a former US Navy captain, told CNN the two ships could have been seconds away from a collision. 'It's like slamming on the brakes and turning to the right to avoid a crash on the road,' he said. 'The Chinese ship certainly violated the rules of the road.' A sequence of United States Navy photos show the exact moment the USS Decatur, pictured left, maneuvers to avoid the Chinese warship, PRC 170, on the right. When the USS Decatur sailed within 12 nautical miles - the commonly accepted distance that constitutes territorial waters of a landmass - of the Gaven and Johnson reefs, a Chinese Luyang destroyer responded with an 'unsafe and unprofessional maneuver', according to US Pacific Fleet spokesman Commander Nate Christensen. The Chinese ship then conducted a series of 'increasingly aggressive maneuvers, and warned the Decatur to depart the area,' he added. According to Lieutenant Commander Tim Gorman, during the tense encounter the Chinese ship 'approached within 45 yards of Decatur's bow, after which Decatur maneuvered to prevent a collision.' The People's Liberation Army opposes the 'freedom of navigation' operations conducted by the US in territory it considers China's, and sent a navy vessel to head off the American ship 'The reported 45 yards separation gives extremely little margin for safety,' said Collin Koh Swee Lean, research fellow at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies The US takes no official position on the competing claims by countries for territories located in the South China Sea. Instead, it considers the waters and airspace to be international and regularly conducts what it calls 'freedom of navigation operations' in which warships and aircraft travel through disputed zones in order to demonstrate this. The People's Liberation Army opposes these operations in territory it considers China's, calling them a threat to its sovereignty. The Chinese ship (right) made an 'unsafe and unprofessional maneuver', according to US Pacific Fleet spokesman Commander Nate Christensen Collin Koh Swee Lean, research fellow at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, said the incident would have contravened the Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea agreed to by China and the US, among others, in 2014. The code was designed to reduce the chance of accidental encounters and reduce the risk of escalation if one occurs. 'The reported 45 yards separation gives extremely little margin for safety,' Koh said. 'It seems to me that this was deliberate and could have been sanctioned by higher levels as part of the retaliatory moves by China in recent times.' File photo from October 21, 2016, showing the guided-missile destroyer USS Decatur (DDG 73) that was involved in the standoff in the South China Sea at the weekend In a statement on the incident, the Chinese Ministry of Defense said that its ship had 'given a warning to leave' to the vessel after it entered the area 'without permission.' 'The US has repeatedly sent warships into the territorial waters near Chinese reefs and islands in the South China Sea,' it said. The behavior 'gravely threatens China's sovereignty and security, gravely damages relations between China and the US and their militaries, and gravely injures regional peace and stability.' 'The Chinese military will resolutely perform its defense duties and continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard our sovereignty and the regional peace and stability,' spokesman Wu Qian said. Gaven Reef is one of seven Chinese-claimed outposts in the Spratlys Archipelago. China claims 3,200 acres there and has built ports, runways and other military infrastructure. The U.S. would 'continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows,' said Gorman, the Pacific Fleet spokesman. Gaven Reef is one of seven Chinese-claimed outposts in the Spratlys Archipelago. China claims 3,200 acres there and has built ports, runways and other military infrastructure (left) Friendly relations between the two countries have nosedived since Donald Trump became president in 2017. A trade war launched by Trump has infuriated Beijing, as did his authorization of a $1.3 billion arms sale to Taiwan, which China considers a rebel province and which it claims as its own. Washington last week enacted new tariffs against China covering another $200 billion of its imports. A notorious bank robber who escaped a maximum-security prison when his Russian girlfriend busted him out of jail in a helicopter is now facing fraud charges. Convicted criminal John Killick, 76, was arrested at Newtown Police Station about 10am on Tuesday, charged in relation to an elaborate fraud syndicate in Sydney. Police said the 76-year-old is the sixth person to be charged as part of an ongoing investigation into a large-scale identity theft and fraud scam. Convicted criminal John Killick, 76 (pictured) was arrested at Newtown Police Station about 10am on Tuesday, charged in relation to an elaborate fraud syndicate in Sydney Killick pulled off the most brazen prison escape in Australian history when his Russian lover hijacked a helicopter (pictured) and plucked him from the county's biggest jail Killick was allegedly receiving fraudulently purchased goods at a Milsons Point unit he lives in with his ex-wife Gloria, The Sydney Morning Herald reported. When detectives raided the North Shore property on September 13, they seized a number of objects they suspected to be proceeds of crime. He has since been charged with knowingly dealing with proceeds of crime, dishonestly obtaining property by deception and goods suspected stolen on premises. His arrest comes days after it was revealed the syndicate allegedly used fraudulent loans to obtain objects and withdraw thousands of dollars of cash, the publication previously reported. It's alleged the syndicate acquired almost $2million worth of items, including designer watches, luxury cars, gym equipment, and even hair straighteners. Investigators claim the team of fraudsters obtained the goods after allegedly creating more than 300 online bank accounts using stolen and fake identities. As part of the bust, police have since seized goods in relation to the scam, including luxury watches from a Sydney bank vault (pictured) The bank vault also contained more than $250,000 cash (pictured) allegedly obtained from fraudulent loans As part of the major bust, police have since seized goods in relation to the scam, including more than $250,000 cash from a Sydney bank vault. Police allege Killick was in cahoots with a Wiley Park man, 46, who is believed to have orchestrated the syndicate, as well as his partner, 42. Other alleged syndicate members include a Mascot couple aged 56 and 39, and a 28-year-old Bondi resident. Lucy Dudko (pictured) who hijacked the helicopter, was released from jail in 2006 In March 1999, Killic famously was busted out of jail when his then Russian girlfriend Lucy Dudko helped him escape in a helicopter. Dudko forced pilot Timothy Joyce to land in the grounds of the prison before Killick jumped aboard and the aircraft took off. The couple then sent six weeks on the run before police eventually nabbed the duo in a dramatic arrest at a Sydney caravan park. Killick spent another 15 years behind bars, as a result of the escape, until he was eventually released in 2015. Dudko was also sent to jail for her involvement and was released in 2006. At the time of his release in 2014, Killick said he deeply regretted breaking out of Sydney's Silverwater jail and his subsequent notoriety. 'Young guys tend to look up to me, but I spent 30 years in jail,' he told KIIS FM's Kyle and Jackie O at the time. 'I'm hardly a role model. To do these things there is a heavy price. The price is not just for me but the people involved - the pilot.' Following his recent arrest, Killick has been granted conditional bail and is due to face Central Local Court on October 11. The wife of a 'fat cat international banker' has lost a challenge to the first-ever Unexplained Wealth Orders (UWOs) obtained under new so-called McMafia laws. Mrs A, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was the subject of the first two UWOs, which were obtained by the National Crime Agency (NCA) in February in relation to two properties worth a total of 22 million. Her husband, known only as Mr A, was the chairman of a bank in a non-European Economic Area (EEA) country, in which the state had a controlling stake, from 2001 until his resignation in 2015. The wife of a 'fat cat international banker' is to continue her fight against the first order made under so-called McMafia laws after the High Court dismissed her attempt to overturn it What is an Unexplained Wealth Order? The 'unexplained wealth order' was introduced in January this year to help officials identify and seize British property suspected of being bought by dirty money laundered by corrupt foreign criminals. A UWO is an investigation order issued by the High Court on satisfaction of a number of tests. A UWO requires a person who is reasonably suspected of involvement in, or of being connected to a person involved in, serious crime to explain the nature and extent of their interest in particular property, and to explain how the property was obtained. A UWO can also be applied to politicians or officials from outside the European Economic Area, or those associated with them i.e. Politically Exposed Persons. Boris Johnson, at the time the foreign secretary, said that the use of the orders 'would be intensified' in response to the novichok attack in Salisbury. The establishment of UWOs, as part of the Criminal Finance Act, will enable the authorities to freeze and recover property if individuals are unable to explain how they acquired assets in excess of 50,000. Agencies which can apply for a UWO include: the National Crime Agency, Her Majestys Revenue and Customs, the Financial Conduct Authority, the Serious Fraud Office, or the Crown Prosecution Service. Advertisement He was subsequently convicted of fraud and embezzlement, sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment and ordered to pay the bank approximately 39 million US dollars. Mrs A took the NCA to the High Court in London to discharge one of the two UWOs, which was made against an 11.5 million property purchased in 2009 by a company incorporated in the British Virgin Islands. The NCA, which considers that the source of the funds to purchase the properties is unexplained, has the power to seize assets if officials believe the owner is a politically exposed person (PEP) - someone from outside the European Economic Area in a position of power that makes them liable to bribery or corruption - or someone with suspected links to serious or organised crime, and they are unable explain the source of their wealth. At the High Court on Wednesday, Mr Justice Supperstone dismissed Mrs A's application to discharge the UWO, and also discharged an anonymity order preventing the identification of the couple, the non-EEA country, the bank, the two properties and Mr A's lawyers in the non-EEA country. Mrs A argued that her husband is not a PEP, but the judge ruled against her. Mr Justice Supperstone also noted that 'independent of the conviction there is evidence which provides some corroboration for the allegations made against him relating to the misuse of the bank's funds of which he was found guilty'. He stated that 'three separate loyalty cards were issued to Mrs A' by department store Harrods, where she spent more than 16 million between September 2006 and June 2016. Three separate loyalty cards were issued to Mrs A by department store Harrods, where she spent more than 16 million between September 2006 and June 2016, the court heard The judge also said he was 'not satisfied' that it was 'in the interests of justice that non-disclosure of the identity of Mrs A or her husband is necessary in order to protect their interests'. He concluded that 'identification of Mrs A and her husband, the non-EEA country involved and the state-owned enterprise that employed him are all matters of very real public interest'. He directed that the anonymity order stay in place until noon on October 10, pending the outcome of an application for permission to appeal over both the ruling on the UWO and on the anonymity order. James Lewis QC, for Mrs A, said the case raised 'clearly important issues' which 'should be put before the Court of Appeal'. Mr Justice Supperstone rejected Mr Lewis's application to appeal. Mr Lewis indicated that Mrs A would pursue the case to the Court of Appeal. Donald Toon, NCA director for economic crime, said: 'I am very pleased that the court dismissed the respondent's (Mrs A's) arguments today. This demonstrates that the NCA is absolutely right to ask probing questions about the funds used to purchase prime property. 'We will continue with this case and seek to quickly move others to the High Court. We are determined to use the powers available to us to their fullest extent where we have concerns that we cannot determine legitimate sources of wealth.' Shadow chancellor John McDonnell said: 'The Government has dragged its feet on implementing these orders. We now need swift large-scale action to tackle the use of the City of London as the money-laundering capital of the world. 'Dirty money is undermining the standing of our financial sector and the Government needs to get its act together to use the UWOs much more extensively and effectively.' Jamas nos callaran Fisica y culturalmente Nec plus ultra, nec variatur Precio del Brent To get the BRENT oil price, please enable Javascript. Precio del WTI To get the oil price, please enable Javascript. Paginas vistas en total Dolar USA Vs Euro Sin ellas, no seremos Deja vu Nada que celebrar Hasta cuando? Colombia Hoy Para nunca olvidar 'Parasite' painted on a statue of Queen, Elizabeth in Kent, England Sin palabras La UE le apunta a la paz Cada vez mas solo Precio del Oro To get the gold price, please enable Javascript. LULA y su Pueblo Bye Bye Homenaje al genial Quino Fueron ellos Una imagen que resume Tan bajo ha caido que se deja tocar el trasero? Porky y el Nene (archiconocido narcotraficante) Ladrones al poder Asi mira el perrito a su amo Crazy Clamor popular La nueva inquisicion Bolivia Chile Hoy Eso es todo amigos! Piensalo! Pinerachet No More Trump Adios Macri, hasta nunca La Marioneta se desinfla Asi o mas cinico Almugre Mexico en 1794 Mas arrastrado imposible Hasta cuando! La pura verdad Solidaridad con Palestina Serie Capitalismo Espejismos de la clase trabajadora Asi es! Comerciantes o delincuentes No pasaran! Asi es la vida USA HOY 01/01/1959 La avaricia no tiene limites AYUDA HUMANITARIA? Chile Hoy Asi son las cosas Mapa Electoral de Venezuela Patagonia argentina? Un aniversario mas del mayor genocidio de la Humanidad Retrato del franquismo en Espana Visca Catalunya! El Chulo de Madrid Cuando la policia se roba la democracia Una imagen dice mas que mil palabras La purita verdad Asi gobierna la maldita burguesia Mi pobre clase media Como Chavez nadie Comparte La Colmena via twitter Twittear Programa de la MUD Asi o mas clarito Por que Trump no ataco Corea del Norte? Hace 15 anos Por que la OEA no se pronuncio? Una verguenza nacional La luz que nos guia La Union Europea Premio Nobel de la Paz? Feudalismo ayer y hoy Obama, el mentiroso Curiosa coincidencia Un mundo de cerdos No es extrano? La Marioneta Los ricos protestan, los pobres celebran MARICORI Y OBAMA Cuantas muertes este ano? USA TODAY USA HOY 6 USA HOY 5 USA HOY 4 USA HOY 3 USA HOY 2 USA HOY (1) Insaciable Cronologia de un agresor Guarimbear en USA Mexico hoy Bolivar y Chavez Primero Amargado Dios los cria y ellos se juntan USA hoy (III) USA hoy (II) USA hoy Mexico hoy Mexico hoy Mexico hoy Obama La verdad sea dicha Los ricos Que no nos vea Obama Pobre Obama SOS PALESTINA VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN VICMAN Archivo del blog Archivo del blog marzo (4) abril (9) mayo (8) junio (10) julio (11) agosto (10) septiembre (17) octubre (11) noviembre (15) diciembre (10) enero (9) febrero (10) marzo (8) abril (5) mayo (6) junio (8) julio (13) agosto (10) septiembre (7) octubre (12) noviembre (8) diciembre (15) enero (17) febrero (11) marzo (11) abril (12) junio (6) julio (11) agosto (15) septiembre (5) octubre (15) noviembre (14) diciembre (11) enero (13) febrero (9) marzo (10) abril (8) mayo (7) junio (12) julio (12) agosto (8) septiembre (8) octubre (4) diciembre (8) enero (35) febrero (20) marzo (29) abril (19) mayo (21) junio (27) julio (21) agosto (28) septiembre (40) octubre (47) noviembre (21) diciembre (34) enero (62) febrero (81) marzo (117) abril (141) mayo (114) junio (111) julio (126) agosto (98) septiembre (160) octubre (234) noviembre (493) diciembre (319) enero (219) febrero (267) marzo (230) abril (291) mayo (347) junio (223) julio (179) agosto (191) septiembre (239) octubre (350) noviembre (406) diciembre (353) enero (284) febrero (202) marzo (274) abril (250) mayo (232) junio (251) julio (188) agosto (249) septiembre (230) octubre (178) noviembre (141) diciembre (164) enero (187) febrero (147) marzo (211) abril (190) mayo (199) junio (164) julio (162) agosto (174) septiembre (182) octubre (225) noviembre (114) diciembre (132) enero (223) febrero (147) marzo (133) abril (108) mayo (387) junio (465) julio (785) agosto (748) septiembre (485) octubre (681) noviembre (754) diciembre (805) enero (708) febrero (896) marzo (735) abril (831) mayo (723) junio (555) julio (658) agosto (619) septiembre (457) octubre (455) noviembre (295) diciembre (269) enero (534) febrero (556) marzo (205) abril (119) mayo (194) junio (255) julio (294) agosto (182) septiembre (207) octubre (340) noviembre (351) diciembre (281) enero (114) febrero (128) marzo (216) abril (195) mayo (116) junio (141) julio (182) agosto (181) septiembre (50) octubre (72) noviembre (104) diciembre (88) enero (168) febrero (102) marzo (151) abril (207) mayo (43) junio (72) julio (35) agosto (146) septiembre (54) octubre (46) noviembre (39) Chavez Cuanto te queremos! Por culpa de Chavez Cerveza Polar Algun dia Colombia volvera a la ideologia de Bolivar Translate LOS REVOLUCIONARIOS NO TOMAN CACA-COLA No se trata solamente de un capricho, sino de una sana actitud en todos los sentidos. Desde la solidaridad con el pueblo colombiano donde la empresa Caca-Cola ha cometido los mas grandes abusos contra sus trabajadores incluyendo el presunto secuestro y asesinato de los dirigentes del sindicato, hasta la proteccion de la salud de nuestros hijos, enviciados por ese jarabe de cola y azucar, que les produce obesidad prematura. Pensemos tambien los revolucionarios, que ese dinero que gastamos en los refrescos es utilizado por esas empresas para financiar el terrorismo en nuestro pais. Es cierto, no se trata solo de la Caca-Cola, sino tambien de la cerveza, de los cigarrillos y todos esos articulos innecesarios y mas que eso, daninos para nuestra salud. Podriamos incluso pensar en un dia de parada para cada uno de ellos. Es cuestion de irnos organizando. Pero para empezar, que tal si dejamos de comprar Caca-Cola y sus similares? Cuando lo extraordinario se vuelve cotidiano... Discurso del Acto de Grado en Barinas en 12 de Febrero del 2005 Queridos Graduandos: Mas que un discurso, quiero dirigirles algunas palabras que escribi anoche, despues de visitar en las clinicas, a los estudiantes heridos, a consecuencia de los enfrentamientos con la policia de hace apenas dos dias. Me ha tocado por razones del destino, ser la persona que les otorgue el titulo que bien merecieron con sus estudios. Y me siento sumamente orgulloso de serlo. Me consta que la Universidad de Los Llanos Occidentales Ezequiel Zamora, a pesar de lo dicho por los enemigos de esta universidad, es una universidad de primera. No tendremos la mejor planta fisica, en los salones hace calor. En el comedor hace calor. Pero no es en lo material que las cosas deben valorarse. El mayor capital es el ser humano. Y en eso, nuestra UNELLEZ, lo digo con conocimiento de causa, esta sobrada. Los llaneros venezolanos son nobles, valientes, de coraje. En la UNELLEZ hacen vida, en este momento, aproximadamente 67000 personas. El 97% de ellas son estudiantes. Jovenes que, como Ustedes hasta el dia de hoy, buscan ese titulo, que constata los anos de dedicacion y de estudio. Los jovenes son el rio de la vida, ustedes graduados deben ser los capitanes de esos barcos que naveguen por el rio de la vida. Nuestra Patria atraviesa momentos muy dificiles porque decidio dejar de ser esa matrona de edad vetusta y complaciente, para ser joven, rebelde y altanera. Nuestra imagen ya no es la de una acaudalada ricachona mayamera. En nuestro rostro brilla ahora la sonrisa del Che Guevara, con su diente delantero torcido, su pelo largo y su boina con la estrella. Entender esto, a mi me ha tomado practicamente toda la vida. Tengo 53 anos, y ya perdi mi oportunidad de derramar sangre joven a causa de un ideal. Ustedes son jovenes, estan en la flor de la vida. No cometan por favor el error de renunciar a su instinto de rebelion. El Che Guevara fue Ministro de a Economia en Cuba. Los billetes y las monedas se adornaban con su rostro. Nada de eso le importo. Primero fue a Angola donde paso un penoso ano de combate. Despues se fue a Bolivia, donde encontro la muerte. El Che era el ultimo que comia, el que cargaba la mochila mas pesada. Siempre se sacrificaba por los demas en un estoicismo que mas parecia fervor religioso que ideologia marxista. Si quieren un modelo de vida. Ahi lo tienen. Dije hace unos momentos que el 97% de la poblacion de la UNELLEZ es estudiante. Se imaginan Ustedes la Universidad que podriamos tener si todos los estudiantes tuvieran la abnegacion, la combatividad del Che? Los momentos que se avecinan van a requerir de una gran unidad del pueblo venezolano. La alternativa de continuar siendo libres o regresar a la pobreza se nos planteara en los proximos dias de forma enmascarada, o quizas peor, desenmascarada, vestida con uniforme de soldado del Imperio. Por nuestra parte podemos esperar lo mejor. La macroeconomia no podria ir mejor, la justicia social ha mejorado notablemente. Las misiones ocupan un papel muy importante en el pago de dicha justicia social. Aqui en Barinas ya hemos cumplido con dos de las misiones, la mision Robinson y la mision Sucre. No hay analfabetismo y no hay exclusion en la educacion superior, en estas tierras de Zamora. Pero ay malhaya! Son precisamente estos exitos los que nos hacen mas antipaticos al Imperio. Para ellos, somos inclusive un mal ejemplo que se esta contagiando al resto del continente y cuidado sino al resto del mundo. Nunca venceremos al Imperio. Estara siempre ahi, acechando. Por lo menos hasta que el mismo no se autodestruya. Porque, sepanlo senores, el neoliberalismo es canibal. Cuando le ataque el hambre, se devorara a si mismo. Ustedes, queridos graduandos, a partir de hoy pasan a conformar la elite profesional que debe sostener este pais en los proximos cuarenta o cincuenta anos. Anos decisivos para el logro de nuestra libertad y del rescate de nuestra Soberania. No se dejen comprar. No se dejen corromper. No se dejen gritar. No se dejen pisar. Que nadie les diga que comer, o que vestirse, o que leer. Sean siempre autenticos, rebeldes, contestatarios. Pero eso si, profundamente patriotas, dignos de ser hijos de Bolivar. Muchas gracias y que Dios los bendiga. Alguna duda? Medio siglo de Holocausto Palestino Oscar Zanartu Nacio en Caracas en 1960. Ha realizado exposiciones individuales en las galerias Minotauro, Clave y San Francisco, y en salas de Coro, estado Falcon, y Puerto Ordaz, estado Bolivar. En Paris su obra ha sido exhibida en el Centro Cultural Tanagra, en la Exposicion Cite Internationale des Arts, en las galerias De Mars y Arver Space, al igual que en la Galeria Municipal Levallois, en Levallois Perret (Francia). En muestras colectivas, su obra se ha expuesto en Belgica, Francia, Estados Unidos y Venezuela; en Caracas intervino en la exposicion "Del genesis a la memoria", 1995, organizada por la Fundacion La Previsora. En 1982 obtuvo el Premio Nacional Critven y en 1990 la Mencion de Honor Jose Antonio Paez, en la Embajada de Venezuela en Paris. En 1991 se le concedio el primer premio de Pintura Itinerante, en Levallois Perret, Francia. OZ1 OZ2 OZ3 OZ4 Homenaje a Jason Galarraga La Victoria de Samotracia Odalisca Mas fotos de la nevada del pasado agosto 2008 La Sierra Nevada de Merida Nuestro precioso Churum Meru Homenaje a Picasso Autoretrato Sabes lo que bebes en una Coca-Cola? La formula de la Pepsi tiene una diferencia basica con la de la Coca-Cola y es intencional, para evitar el proceso judicial. La diferencia es a proposito, pero suficientemente parecida como para atraer a los consumidores de Coca-Cola que prefieren un gusto diferente con menos sal y azucar. Mi profesion? Tuve que aprender quimica, entender todo sobre componentes de gaseosas, conservantes, sales, acidos, cafeina, enlatado, produccion, permisos, aprobaciones y muchas otras cosas. Monte mi propio mini-laboratorio de analisis de productos. Sal en la Coca Cola? A patadas. El Cloruro de Sodio no solo refresca sino da mas sed, como para pedir otra gaseosa. Y no resulta desagradable porque la sal mata literalmente la sensibilidad al dulce... del que por cierto tambien tiene mucho: 39 gramos de azucar. De los 350 gramos de producto liquido, mas del 10% es azucar, o sea que en una lata de Coca-Cola mas de un centimetro y medio es puro azucar en polvo. Aproximadamente tres cucharadas soperas llenas de azucar por lata!!La formula de la Coca Cola es muy sencilla: Concentrado de azucar quemado caramelo- para dar color oscuro y gusto Acido fosforito (para darle el sabor acido) azucar (HFCS-jarabe de maiz de alta fructosa) Extracto de hojas de la planta de Coca (Africa e India) y otros pocos aromatizantes naturales de otras plantas Mucha Cafeina Conservante que puede ser Benzoato de Sodio o Potasio Dioxido de Carbono en cantidad para sentir freir la lengua cuando se bebe Sal para dar la sensacion de refrigeracion El uso del acido fosforito y no del acido citrico como en todas las demas gaseosas, es para dar la sensacion de dientes y boca limpia al beber. El acido fosforito literalmente frie todo y dana el esmalte de los dientes, cosa que el acido citrico lo hace en menor grado.Trate de comprar acido fosforito para ver las mil recomendaciones de seguridad que te dan para su manipulacion (quema el cristalino del ojo, quema la piel, etc...). Esta prohibido usar el acido fosforito en cualquier otra gaseosa; solo la Coca Cola tiene permiso. Porque claro, sin el acido fosforico, la Coca Cola sabria a jabon.El extracto de coca y otras hojas casi no cambia en nada el sabor. Es mas bien un efecto cosmetico. El extracto forma parte de la Coca-Cola porque legalmente tiene que ser asi. Pero sin el, no se nota ninguna diferencia en el gusto, que esta dado basicamente por las cantidades diferentes de azucar, azucar quemada, sales, acidos y conservantes.Sabor a que...? ja, ja, ja. Aqui en Bartow, sur de Orlando, hay una empresa quimica que produce aromatizantes y esencias para zumos. Envian diariamente camionadas de sales concentradas y esencias para las fabricas de helados, gaseosas, jugos, enlatados y comida colorida y aromatizada.Cuando visite por primera vez la fabrica, pedi ver el deposito de concentrados de frutas, que deberia ser inmenso, especialmente los de naranja, pina, fresa y tantos otros. El encargado me miro, se rio y me llevo a visitar los depositos inmensos... pero de colorantes y componentes quimicos. Las gaseosa de naranja no contiene naranja. En los zumos dizque de fresa, hasta los puntitos que quedan en suspension estan hechos de goma (una liga quimica que envuelve un semi-polimero). Pina, es un popurri de acidos y goma. La esencia para helado de aguacate usa peroxido de hidrogeno (agua oxigenada) para dar la sensacion espumosa tipica del aguacate. Bebidas Light? Quieres saber la cantidad de basura que tiene un refresco 'light'? Yo ni siquiera los uso para destapar mi lavaplatos pues temo que danen los tubos de PVC. Los productos endulzantes 'ligth' tienen una vida media muy corta. Por ejemplo el Despues de toda mi experiencia con la produccion de bebidas embasadas, puedo afirmar sin dudar un segundo: la mejor bebida es el agua, como tambien los jugos exprimidos de naranja o limon. Nada mas, cero azucar y cero sal. Publicado por loretahur En realidad, la formula secreta de la Coca-Cola se puede detallar en 18 segundos en cualquier espectrometro optico, y basicamente la conocen hasta los perros. Lo que ocurre es que no se puede fabricar igual, a no ser que uno disponga de unos cuantos millones de dolares para ganarle la demanda que te metera la Coca-Cola ante la justicia (ellos no perderian).La formula de la Pepsi tiene una diferencia basica con la de la Coca-Cola y es intencional, para evitar el proceso judicial. La diferencia es a proposito, pero suficientemente parecida como para atraer a los consumidores de Coca-Cola que prefieren un gusto diferente con menos sal y azucar.Tuve que aprender quimica, entender todo sobre componentes de gaseosas, conservantes, sales, acidos, cafeina, enlatado, produccion, permisos, aprobaciones y muchas otras cosas. Monte mi propio mini-laboratorio de analisis de productos.A patadas. El Cloruro de Sodio no solo refresca sino da mas sed, como para pedir otra gaseosa. Y no resulta desagradable porque la sal mata literalmente la sensibilidad al dulce... del que por cierto tambien tiene mucho: 39 gramos de azucar.De los 350 gramos de producto liquido, mas del 10% es azucar, o sea que en una lata de Coca-Cola mas de un centimetro y medio es puro azucar en polvo. Aproximadamente tres cucharadas soperas llenas de azucar por lata!!La formula de la Coca Cola es muy sencilla:Concentrado de azucar quemado caramelo- para dar color oscuro y gustoAcido fosforito (para darle el sabor acido)azucar (HFCS-jarabe de maiz de alta fructosa)Extracto de hojas de la planta de Coca (Africa e India) y otros pocos aromatizantes naturales de otras plantasMucha CafeinaConservante que puede ser Benzoato de Sodio o PotasioDioxido de Carbono en cantidad para sentir freir la lengua cuando se bebeSal para dar la sensacion de refrigeracionEl uso del acido fosforito y no del acido citrico como en todas las demas gaseosas, es para dar la sensacion de dientes y boca limpia al beber. El acido fosforito literalmente frie todo y dana el esmalte de los dientes, cosa que el acido citrico lo hace en menor grado.Trate de comprar acido fosforito para ver las mil recomendaciones de seguridad que te dan para su manipulacion (quema el cristalino del ojo, quema la piel, etc...). Esta prohibido usar el acido fosforito en cualquier otra gaseosa; solo la Coca Cola tiene permiso. Porque claro, sin el acido fosforico, la Coca Cola sabria a jabon.El extracto de coca y otras hojas casi no cambia en nada el sabor. Es mas bien un efecto cosmetico. El extracto forma parte de la Coca-Cola porque legalmente tiene que ser asi. Pero sin el, no se nota ninguna diferencia en el gusto, que esta dado basicamente por las cantidades diferentes de azucar, azucar quemada, sales, acidos y conservantes.Sabor a que...? ja, ja, ja.Aqui en Bartow, sur de Orlando, hay una empresa quimica que produce aromatizantes y esencias para zumos. Envian diariamente camionadas de sales concentradas y esencias para las fabricas de helados, gaseosas, jugos, enlatados y comida colorida y aromatizada.Cuando visite por primera vez la fabrica, pedi ver el deposito de concentrados de frutas, que deberia ser inmenso, especialmente los de naranja, pina, fresa y tantos otros. El encargado me miro, se rio y me llevo a visitar los depositos inmensos... pero de colorantes y componentes quimicos.Las gaseosa de naranja no contiene naranja.En los zumos dizque de fresa, hasta los puntitos que quedan en suspension estan hechos de goma (una liga quimica que envuelve un semi-polimero).Pina, es un popurri de acidos y goma.La esencia para helado de aguacate usa peroxido de hidrogeno (agua oxigenada) para dar la sensacion espumosa tipica del aguacate.Quieres saber la cantidad de basura que tiene un refresco 'light'? Yo ni siquiera los uso para destapar mi lavaplatos pues temo que danen los tubos de PVC. Los productos endulzantes 'ligth' tienen una vida media muy corta. Por ejemplo el aspartamo , despues de tres semanas mojado, pasa a tener gusto de trapo viejo sucio.Para evitar eso, se agregan una infinidad de otros productos quimicos, uno para alargar la vida del aspartamo, otro para neutralizar el color, otro para mantener el tercer quimico en suspension porque sino el fondo de la gaseosa quedaria oscuro, otro para evitar la cristalizacion del aspartamo, otro para realzar el sabor, dar mas intensidad al acido citrico o fosforito que perderia su sabor por el efecto de los cuatro productos quimicos iniciales... y asi sucesivamente.Un consejo final !!Despues de toda mi experiencia con la produccion de bebidas embasadas, puedo afirmar sin dudar un segundo: la mejor bebida es el agua, como tambien los jugos exprimidos de naranja o limon. Nada mas, cero azucar y cero sal.Publicado por loretahur MARGARINA o MANTEQUILLA La margarina fue producida originalmente para engordar a los pavos; cuandolo que hizo en realidad fue matarlos.Las personas que habian puesto el dinero para la investigacion quisieronrecobrarlo asi que empezaron a pensar en una forma de hacerlo.Tenian una sustancia blanca, que no tenia ningun atractivo como comestible,asi que le anadieron el color amarillo, para venderselo a lagente en lugar de la mantequilla.Que tal esa?... Ahora han sacado algunos nuevos sabores para vender mas alos incautos como usted y yo.CONOCE USTED la diferencia entre la margarina y la mantequilla?Siga leyendo hasta el final... porque se pone bastante interesante!Comparacion entre mantequilla y margarina: 1.- Ambas tienen la misma cantidad de calorias. 2.- La mantequilla es ligeramente mas alta en grasas saturadas: 8 gramos,comparada con los 5 gramos que tiene la margarina. 3.- Comer margarina en vez de mantequilla puede aumentar en 53% el riesgo deenfermedades coronarias en las mujeres, de acuerdo con un estudiomedico reciente de la Universidad de Harvard. 4.- Comer mantequilla aumenta la absorcion de gran cantidad de nutrientesque se encuentran en otros alimentos. 5.- La mantequilla provee beneficios nutricionales propios mientras lamargarina tiene solo los que le hayan sido anadidos al fabricarla. 6.- La mantequilla sabe mucho mejor que la margarina y mejora el sabor deotros alimentos.7.- La mantequilla ha existido durante siglos mientras que la margarinatiene menos de 100 anos. Ahora... sobre la margarina: 1.- Es muy alta en acidos grasos trans. (Si, esos que recien ahora loscientificos descubrieron que son malisimos y los gobiernoscomenzaron a prohibirlos) . 2.- Triple riesgo de enfermedades coronarias. 3.- Aumenta el colesterol total y el LDL (el colesterol malo) y disminuye elHDL (el colesterol bueno). 4.- Aumenta en cinco veces el riesgo de cancer. 5.- Disminuye la calidad de la leche materna. 6.- Disminuye la reaccion inmunologica del organismo. 7.- Disminuye la reaccion a la insulina. Y he aqui el factor mas inquietante (AQUI ESTA LA PARTE MAS INTERESANTE! ):A la margarina le falta UNA MOLECULA para ser PLASTICO...!!Solo este hecho es suficiente para evitar el uso de la margarina de porvida, y de cualquier otra cosa que sea hidrogenada (esto significaque se le anade hidrogeno, lo cual cambia la estructura molecular de lassubstancias).Usted puede ensayar lo siguiente:Compre un poco de margarina y dejela en el garaje o en un sitio sombreado.Dentro de unos dias notara dos cosas: * No habra moscas; ni siquiera esos molestos bichos se le acercaran (esto yale debe decir a usted algo). * No se pudre ni huele mal o diferente porque no tiene valor nutritivo; nadacrece en ella. Ni siquiera los diminutos microorganismos puedencrecer en ella.Por que? Porque es casi plastico!! No a la guerra, Si a la Paz Misterios de la ciencia... Los costos de la guerra medicos y capitalismo... Capitalismo... medicos (2) Quien educa a nuestros hijos? Los Medios... Sin Palabras... Chistes feministas - Cual es el problema, Eva? - Se que me has creado, que me has dado este hermoso jardin, todos estos maravillosos animales y esa serpiente con la que me muero de risa... pero no soy del todo feliz... - Como es eso, Eva? - replico Dios desde las alturas. - Me encuentro sola, y ademas estoy harta de comer manzanas... - Bueno Eva, en tal caso, tengo una solucion... creare un hombre para ti. - Que es un hombre? - Un hombre sera una criatura imperfecta, con muchas artimanas. Mentira, hara trampas, sera engreido... vamos, que te va a dar problemas... Pero, va a ser mas fuerte y rapido que tu y le gustara cazar y matar cosas... Tendra un aspecto simple, pero como te estas quejando, le creare de tal forma que satisfaga tus... eh... necesidades fisicas... Y tampoco sera muy listo, y destacara en cosas infantiles como pegarse o dar patadas a un balon... Necesitara tu consejo siempre para actuar cuerdamente. - Suena bien - dijo Eva, mientras levantaba la ceja ironicamente. - Cual es el truco?. - Pues... que lo tendras con una condicion. - Cual? - Como te decia, sera chulo, arrogante y muy narcisista... asi que le tendras que hacer creer que le hice a el primero... recuerda... es nuestro secreto... de mujer a mujer. Por que a los hombres no les puede dar la enfermedad de las vacas locas? Porque todos son unos cerdos Un dia, en el Paraiso, Eva llamo a Dios: Tengo un problema.- Cual es el problema, Eva?- Se que me has creado, que me has dado este hermoso jardin, todos estos maravillosos animales y esa serpiente con la que me muero de risa... pero no soy del todo feliz... - Como es eso, Eva? - replico Dios desde las alturas.- Me encuentro sola, y ademas estoy harta de comer manzanas...- Bueno Eva, en tal caso, tengo una solucion... creare un hombre para ti.- Que es un hombre?- Un hombre sera una criatura imperfecta, con muchas artimanas. Mentira, hara trampas, sera engreido... vamos, que te va a dar problemas... Pero, va a ser mas fuerte y rapido que tu y le gustara cazar y matar cosas... Tendra un aspecto simple, pero como te estas quejando, le creare de tal forma que satisfaga tus... eh... necesidades fisicas... Y tampoco sera muy listo, y destacara en cosas infantiles como pegarse o dar patadas a un balon... Necesitara tu consejo siempre para actuar cuerdamente.- Suena bien - dijo Eva, mientras levantaba la ceja ironicamente.- Cual es el truco?.- Pues... que lo tendras con una condicion.- Cual?- Como te decia, sera chulo, arrogante y muy narcisista... asi que le tendras que hacer creer que le hice a el primero... recuerda... es nuestro secreto... de mujer a mujer.Por que a los hombres no les puede dar la enfermedad de las vacas locas? Porque todos son unos cerdos Ellas... Ellas (2)... Tres venganzas femeninas VENGANZA NUMERO 1 Hoy mi hija cumple 21 anos y estoy muy contento porque es el ultimo pago de pension alimenticia que le doy, asi que llame a mi hijita para que viniera a mi casa y cuando llego le dije: -Hijita, quiero que lleves este cheque a casa de tu mama y que le digas que: Este es el ultimo maldito cheque que va recibir de mi en todo lo que le queda de su puta vida!!! Quiero que me digas la expresion que pone en su rostro. Asi que mi hija fue a entregar el cheque. Yo estaba ansioso por saber lo que la bruja tenia que decir y que cara pondria. Cuando mi hijita entro, le pregunte inmediatamente: -Que fue lo que te dijo tu madre? -Me dijo que justamente estaba esperando este dia para decirte que no eres mi papa! VENGANZA NUMERO 2 Un hombre que siempre molestaba a su mujer, paso un dia por la casa de unos amigos para que lo acompanaran al aeropuerto a dejar a su esposa que viajaba a Paris. A la salida de inmigracion, frente a todo el mundo, el le desea buen viaje y en tono burlon le grita: - Amor, no te olvides de traerme una hermosa francesita Ja ja ja!! Ella bajo la cabeza y se embarco muy molesta. La mujer paso quince dias en Francia. El marido otra vez pidio a sus amigos que lo acompanasen al aeropuerto a recibirla. Al verla llegar, lo primero que le grita a toda voz es: - Y amor me trajiste mi francesita?? - Hice todo lo posible, - contesta ella - ahora solo tenemos que rezar para que nazca nina. VENGANZA NUMERO 3 El marido, en su lecho de muerte, llama a su mujer. Con voz ronca y ya debil, le dice: - Muy bien, llego mi hora, pero antes quiero hacerte una confesion. - No, no, tranquilo, tu no debes hacer ningun esfuerzo. - Pero, mujer, es preciso - insiste el marido - Es preciso morir en paz. Te quiero confesar algo. - Esta bien, esta bien. Habla! - He tenido relaciones con tu hermana, tu mama y tu mejor amiga. - Lo se, lo se Por eso te envenene, hijo de puta!!! machismo y cibernetica Chiste machista La NASA ha enviado al espacio una mision experimental tripulada por dos monos y una mujer.Apenas abandona la atmosfera, se establece comunicacion con Houston. -Atencion, simio 1, verifique sistemas hidraulicos, controle adecuada presion de los propulsores de arranque. A 60.000 pies disminuya un 25% la velocidad. El simio hace la sena de OK. -Atencion, simio 2, nivele al cruzar la estratosfera y active sistemas anticongelantes. No olvide monitorear sistemas de comunicacion e indicadores de presion. Comprendido?. El simio hace la sena de OK. -Atencion, Houston llamando a mujer: no se olvide. -Mujer: Si, si, ya se! -interrumpe enojada- que no me olvide darles de comer a estos monos de mierda y que no se me vaya a ocurrir tocar nada!. .Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti. Un abogado mantiene un romance con su secretaria.Al poco tiempo, esta queda embarazada y el abogado, que no quiere que su esposa se entere, le da a la secretaria una buena suma de dinero y le pide que se vaya a parir a Italia.Esta pregunta: Y como voy a hacerte saber cuando nazca el bebe ? El abogado responde: Para que mi mujer no se entere, tan solo enviame una postal y escribe por detras: Spaghetti. Y no te preocupes mas, que yo me encargare de todos los gastos. Pasan los meses y una manana la esposa del abogado lo llama al bufete, algo exaltada: Querido, acabo de recibir el correo y hay una postal muy extrana viene desde Italia. La verdad, no entiendo que significa.El abogado, tratando de ocultar sus nervios, contesta:Espera a que llegue a casa, a ver si yo entiendoCuando el hombre llega a casa y lee la postal, cae al suelo fulminado por un infarto.Llega una ambulancia y se lo lleva. Ya en el hospital, el jefe de cardiologia se queda consolando a la esposa y le pregunta cual ha sido el evento que precipito tan masivo ataque cardiaco. Entonces la esposa saca la postal y se la muestra diciendole: No me explico, doctor; el solamente leyo esta postal. Vea usted mismo lo que trae escrito.Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti."Tres con salchicha y albondigas y dos con almejas Gol !!!! Chistes de Borrachos Entra un borracho a su casa todo manchado con lapiz labial por todos lados hecho un desastre, y la mujer le pregunta:-Hombre que te paso?Y el borracho le responde:-No me vas a creer, me pelee con un payaso! Este es un borracho que entra en un bar y le dice al camarero:-Me da cinco copas de whisky?Al rato:-Me da cuatro?Al rato:-Me da tres copas?Despues:-Me da dos copas?Luego le dice:-Me da una copa?Y le dice al camarero:-Ves? Cuanto menos bebo, mas borracho estoy! Theresa May took a swipe at Boris Johnson in her conference speech today, warning him the Tories must always 'back business' even if they are sceptical of Brexit. The former foreign secretary reportedly said 'f*** business' after his resignation when asked about their objections to Brexit. He has been roundly criticised for the jibe since but still made a rave appearance on the conference fringes yesterday, lambasting Mrs May's plans for Brexit. Mrs May said last night she was 'cross' at his interventions and took a clear swipe at her leadership rival today. Theresa May (pictured today in Birmingham) took a swipe at Boris Johnson in her conference speech today, warning him the Tories must always 'back business' even if they are sceptical of Brexit Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson (pictured today at home) reportedly said 'f*** business' after his resignation when asked about their objections to Brexit She told activists: 'To all businesses, large and small, you may have heard that there is a four-letter word to describe what we Conservatives want to do to you. 'It has a single syllable. It is of Anglo-Saxon derivation. It ends in the letter k. 'Back business. Back them to create jobs and build prosperity. Back them to drive innovation and improve lives. 'Back them with the lowest corporation tax in the G20. 'Britain, under my Conservative government is open for business.' In a tough message to the premier that provoked cheers from activists at his speech yesterday, Mr Johnson said he was asking 'one last time' for the Government to switch back to the 'original plan' the PM set out at Lancaster House. In a tough message to the premier that provoked cheers from activists at his speech yesterday (pictured), Mr Johnson said he was asking 'one last time' for the Government to switch back to the 'original plan' the PM set out at Lancaster House He said: 'For one last time, I urge our friends in government to deliver what the people voted for, to back Theresa May in the best way possible, by softly, quietly, and sensibly backing her original plan.' Slamming his fist on the lectern, Mr Johnson said the decisions on the UK's future could not be 'fudged' as Brussels would merely take the opportunity to force the reversal of the 2016 referendum. 'Do not believe that we can somehow get it wrong now and fix it later get out properly next year, or the year after. Total fantasy. The opposite will happen,' he insisted. The FBI is quickly wrapping up its investigation of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and will likely deliver its final product to senators Wednesday afternoon, a senior Republican senator said. The bureau does not at this time plan to produce any overarching analysis or conclusions of what it finds following an interview process that began Friday after a dramatic compromise hatched in the Senate Judiciary Committee. Instead, GOP Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee said, they will simply turn over a stack of '302s,' the forms the bureau produces during background interviews. Senators will then get the chance to review the materials in a secure facility, Corker told DailyMail.com and a contingent of reporters in the Capitol. 'These are 302s. And theyre just going to be a stack of those transmitted. Thats going to be it. There never has been expected to be findings,' Corker said. 'What we think is going to happen theyre going to transmit a stack of 302s where they went and talked to people. And well go through those. Its possible that they have conflicting accounts, I hope thats not the case.' Why hasn't she been asked: Christine Blasey Ford's attorneys Debra Katz and Michael Bromwich wrote to the FBI warning she had not been contacted at all He added: 'My understanding is theyre just going to send this raw data that is those 302s that they collect. I think its likely to happen this afternoon.' News of that the investigation is in its final hours comes as attorneys for Kavanaugh accuser Christine Blasey Ford complain their client has not been contacted for an interview. Instead, they would contain rough summaries of information provided by the six or more people FBI agents have contacted, under a deal being closely monitored by the White House and GOP senators. Such 302 documents contain an FBI agent's notes on information a witness provides. They don't contain analysis comparing the statements to what another witness may have said, or otherwise offer a conclusion meaning if senators are looking for an answer on the key question of who is telling the truth, Kavanaugh or Ford, the documents very well may not provide it. 'My understanding is theyre just going to send this raw data that is those 302s that they collect. I think its likely to happen this afternoon,' said Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee, signaling that the FBI is wrapping up its background investigation The official title of the 302 form is 'Form for Reporting Information That May Become Testimony.' But in this case, the hearings, and the key witness testimony, have already occurred. Democrats demanded further investigation after Ford testified she was '100 per cent' certain Kavanaugh assaulted her at a small party decades ago, and by allying with GOP Sen. Jeff Flake of Arizona, a key vote, were able to force the one-week probe. Kavanaugh came back at last week's hearing with a defiant performance where he forcefully denied the charge and accused Democrats of a 'calculated and orchestrated political hit fueled with apparent pent-up anger about President Trump and the 2016 election, fear that has been unfairly stoked about my judicial record, revenge on behalf of the Clintons, and millions of dollars in money from outside left-wing opposition groups.' Ready for a confrontation: Michael Avenatti, the attorney for third accuser Julie Swetnick, said she had not been contacted by the FBI, while Chuck Schumer, the Senate Minority Leader made clear Tuesday he wanted to see the FBI's results published in full There are at present no plans to have the FBI dispatch someone to summarize any conclusions, although Senate Republicans may request one to appear. Corker made the comments following a closed meeting of the Senate GOP Conference where the status of the FBI's reopened probe into Kavanaugh's background was discussed. The move keeps Senate Majority Leader on track with his plan to file a motion to cut off debate on the Kavanaugh nomination on Wednesday, which would set up a critical Friday vote. The fast-moving developments came as attorneys for Kavanaugh accuser Christine Ford revealed the FBI has not spoken to the accuser who claims Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her. The 'background investigation' also came under fire from attorneys from Kavanaugh's other two accusers. 'It is inconceivable that the FBI could conduct a thorough investigation of Dr. Ford's allegations without interviewing her, Judge Kavanaugh, or the witnesses we have identified in our letters to you,' Ford's attorneys Debra Katz and Michael Bromwich wrote to the FBI's director, Christopher Wray. John Clune, a lawyer for Debbie Ramirez, the second accuser, who was questioned at the weekend, also attacked, telling Bloomberg: 'We have great concern that the FBI is not conducting - or not being permitted to conduct - a serious investigation.' Concerns: Attorneys for accusers Julie Swetnick and Debbie Ramirez have both said they are unhappy with the Senate Judiciary Committee and the FBI. Ramirez was questioned by agents but her attorney said her list of witnesses has not been acted on. Swetnick has not been contacted by the FBI. And Michael Avenatti, who represents the third accuser, Julie Swetnick, published emails he had sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee demanding that it 'take all steps to arrange an FBI interview' with her. Agents have spoken to at least six people involved in the allegations. One of those is Mark Judge, the high school friend of Kavanaugh who was accused of being in the room when the nominee allegedly tried to rape Ford, while the other is Debbie Ramirez, the second accuser. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT IN BRETT KAVANAUGH'S CONFIRMATION The Senate is currently engaged in an unlimited period of debate on Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, meaning they have the option to talk about him on the Senate floor should they so choose. When Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is ready to call for a confirmation vote, he must make a motion to end the debate, a process known as cloture. Senate rules require an intervening day to pass between when a GOP leader files for cloture and when the Senate votes on the cloture motion. So if McConnell were to file for cloture on Wednesday evening, the cloture vote would 'ripen' to allow this to happen on Friday. If he waits until Thursday morning to file for cloture, then that vote would take place Saturday. For cloture to be invoked for the nomination, 51 votes are required, under the 'nuclear option' rules change pushed through by Senate Republicans before the confirmation of Justice Neil Gorsuch during Trump's first year as president. Once the cloture is invoked, that starts the clock on the final 30 hours of debate on Kavanaugh. Senators can only vote sooner if they are able to reach unanimous agreement to do so. Once those 30 hours are up, Senators will vote on whether or not to confirm Kavanaugh. It takes a simple majority of 51 senators to confirm a nominee. But since Republicans only have a 51 seat majority, they can afford to lose only one senator if all Democrats vote no on Kavanaugh. Should it be a 50-50 vote, Vice President Mike Pence would break the tie to confirm Kavanaugh. Advertisement They have also spoken to Patrick 'P.J.' Smyth and Leland Keyser, both of whom Ford said were present, and to Tim Gaudette, whose home Kavanaugh's calendars showed he partied at on July 1, 1982, under the term 'skis'. And they have spoken to 'Squi' or 'Squee', real name Chris Garrett, who Ford said she dated and who Kavanaugh's calendar put at the July 1 party. Ford testified at length during an emotional Judiciary Committee hearing last week, where she fielded questions from Rachel Mitchell, the prosecutor hired by the all-male Senate Republicans on the panel to ask her questions. Gaudette, who lives in Denver, Colorado, where he works in healthcare and is a former chairman of the city's Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce confirmed the interview through an attorney who said he did not want to comment further. Smyth, a PWC managing director who works in Washington D.C. has not commented on the interview and had previously issued a statement saying he had no recollection of a party matching the one described by Ford. Concerns about the lack of FBI action were stoked by a lengthy statement from Ramirez's attorney, Clune, who said a list of witnesses Ramirez presented does not appear to have been acted on. 'Debbie Ramirez spoke to the FBI for over two hours this past Sunday. It was a detailed and productive interview, and the agents were clearly motivated to investigate the matter in any way they were permitted,' Clune said on Twitter. 'Ms. Ramirez identified a number of witnesses, and, at the end of the interview, her lawyers provided the FBI the names and known contact information of additional witnesses (totaling more than 20) who may have corroborating information. 'Although we do not know the status of the investigation, we are not aware of the FBI affirmatively reaching out to any of those witnesses. 'Though we appreciated the agents who responded on Sunday, we have great concern that the FBI is not conductingor not being permitted to conducta serious investigation.' The confirmation of the number of interviews led to speculation that the FBI probe could end as soon as Wednesday, which came as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said there would be a vote on Kavanaugh's nomination this week. Counselor to the president Kellyanne Conway said Wednesday the White House had in no way blocked the FBI from talking to Ford, but also said the country had already heard from her 'for hours.' No. Absolutely... the whole country heard from her last week. The whole heard from her for hours under testimony,' Conway said. Pressed on whether the FBI would be allowed to contact her, she dodged: Youd have to talk to the FBI. But the FBI has been given free range were not micromanaging anything,' Conway added. This woman has testified under oath for hours for all of you to see. If now youre getting concerned about the factual inconsistencies, the memory gaps, the fact that delay has not helped her much because people from all corners of her life are coming forward when theyre telling their story,' she said, defending the president's decision to go after Ford at his Mississippi rally Tuesday night. The FBI had been given a deadline of Friday to end its new background investigation. Questioned: Tim Gaudette, whose house was where a party similar to the one described by Christine Blasey Ford took place, has been interviewed by the FBI. So has Leland Keyser, Ford's longtime friend, and P.J. Smyth, a PWC executive who was named as being at the party by Ford and is named as partying at 'Tobin's' in Kavanaugh's calendars Skis at Timmy's: Timmy is in fact Tim Gaudette, a Denver, CO, resident who works in the healthcare sector and who said through an attorney that he has been questioned by the FBI Detailed: Brett Kavanaugh furnished his 1982 calendars which showed - he said - how he spent the time in the summer which Christine Ford said was when he tried to rape her WHO THE FBI ARE KNOWN TO HAVE QUESTIONED IN THE KAVANAUGH PROBE Accuser Debbie Ramirez She says Kavanaugh exposed himself during a dorm party in their freshman year at Yale. Her attorney says she gave a list of 20 potential witnesses to the FBI Kavanaugh friend Mark Judge Man who Christine Blasey Ford says was in the room when Kavanaugh tried to rape her. His attorney said his interview spread over Monday and Tuesday. Judge, a recovering alcoholic, has denied being present at any such event and said he believed his high school friend's innocence. He also denied claims that he and Kavanaugh spiked drinks with drugs and were present during third accuser Julie Swetnick's alleged gang rape Kavanaugh friend Tim Gaudette His house was the venue for a mid-week 'skis' (beers) party on July 1, 1982, according to Kavanaugh's calendars. Ford described a party with an almost identical list of attendees. His attorney confirmed an interview but did not say what Gaudette told agents. Kavanaugh friend P.J. Smyth He was named by Ford as being at the party downstairs when she was sexually assaulted, and featured on the July 1 'skis' night list of attendees. Has previously said he did not recall such an event. Kavanaugh friend Chris 'Squi' Garrett Has been named by Ford as someone she was dating in the summer of 1982, and is on the list of attendees of the 'skis' party. His attorney says he spoke to the FBI but did not disclose his evidence. Ford friend Leland Keyser Ford said her longtime friend was at the party where she alleges she was assaulted and was downstairs at the time. Has denied any memory of such an event but Ford said Leland sent a text message saying she believed her. Advertisement However the possibility of the investigation coming to an end immediately led to the prospect of a series of new rows - over the release of the report, how senators are presented with it, and crucially, exactly who was questioned. McConnell created dissent within his own party by saying that only senators would see the FBI's report. But both John Cornyn, the second-most powerful Republican in the Senate, and South Carolina senator Lindsey Graham, who made himself a viral hero to conservatives with a fiery attack on Democrats over Kavanaugh, said that the public needed to get at least a sense of its contents. Graham said he wanted to see the full report published, while Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Minority Leader, said he wanted the same. Schumer also set up a confrontation with McConnell by saying he wanted senators to be briefed by the lead FBI agent before they voted.' 'We need to be briefed by the FBI. By the agent in charge,' Schumer told CNN. But the largest dispute of all - and the biggest political risk for McConnell - is over exactly who agents questioned. The public perception of the scale and scope of the FBI probe is now the key for Republicans wanting to get Kavanaugh nominated. McConnell is relying on the FBI investigation winning support to get the votes of the key swing senators. There are three Republicans: Lisa Murkowski (Alaska); Susan Collins (Maine); and Jeff Flake (Utah); and two Democrats: Joe Manchin (West Virginia) and Heidi Heitkamp (North Dakota). All five have said that the FBI investigation must be adequate before they decide how to vote. Collins has said publicly that Swetnick needs to be questioned for her to vote 'yes'. Public questions over whether agents failed to investigate fully could lead to at least two of them voting Kavanaugh down, which would force a tie-break, while if three vote against, he is doomed. Murkowski said she was not worried that McConnell was moving too fast on the nomination by promising a floor vote this week. Asked about McConnell's pledge to move forward with the vote, Murkowski told The Associated Press that McConnell 'talked about a vote a last week, too.' Collins was riding with Murkowski on an underground Senate train when the question was asked, and smiled and told her colleague: 'Good answer.' Murkowski and Collins both said they were satisfied with the scope and pace of the FBI's probe. However Flake said that he wanted a full investigation, while Manchin and Heitkamp did not pass comment. McConnell himself attacked Democrats for pursuing the 'politics of personal destruction' in a fiery floor speech Tuesday where he insisted the Senate would vote 'this week' on the embattled judge. 'I wish this fight could have remained in the realm of normalcy,' McConnell said, as FBI agents continued to probe sexual assault allegations against the Supreme Court nominee. 'Some chose a darker road. The politics of personal destruction were willfully unleashed,' McConnell said, aiming his fire at Democrats he accused of repeatedly 'moving the goalposts' to kill the nomination. 'The Democrats may be trying to move the goal posts every five minutes but their goal has not moved an inch. They will not be satisfied unless they have brought down Brett Kavanaugh's nomination,' said McConnell. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is trying to steer Kavanaugh's nomination through the Senate as the FBI interviews accusers and potential witnesses FBI investigators are probing Kavanaugh accusers. It is unclear the extent to which they may run down allegations of excessive drinking in high school and college Questioned: P.J. Smyth (third from right) has been questioned about his presence at a party described by Christine Blasey Ford when he was a high school friend of Brett Kavanaugh McConnell, who successfully kept Judge Merrick Garland from getting a hearing during the Obama administration of 'delay, delay, delay.' 'Who are we kidding, shot back Sen. Minority Leader Charles Schumer. 'I want to ask the leader to answer a direct question: does he believe or not believe Dr. Ford, yes or no,' said Schumer, referencing accuser Christine Blasey Ford. Schumer fumed in an angry response to McConnell delivered on the floor: 'What a double standard. How galling. 'Accusing Democrats of needlessly delaying a Supreme Court nomination is galling, is hypocritical coming from a leader who delayed the nomination of a Supreme Court justice for over 300 days until his party had a chance to win the White House. 'So no one, no American should accept his admonishments about delay. He's the master of delay,' he added. McConnell slammed the third accuser, Julie Swetnick, whose allegations were brought forward by Stormy Daniels lawyer Michael Avenatti. 'A tabloid lawyer organized a red carpet rollout for someone who wanted to accuse Judge Kavanaugh of masterminding some kind of high school drug and serial sexual assault ring,' said McConnell. 'This is how desperate some became,' said McConnell. But he vowed: 'One thing for sure: the Senate will vote on Judge Kavanaugh, here on this floor, this week. here on this floor, this week.' is planning procedural steps that could set up a vote on confirming Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court on Sunday but an ongoing FBI investigation could throw off the timing. McConnell, who demanded speedy confirmation of the Supreme Court nominee after Christine Blasey Ford first brought forward her sexual assault allegations against the nominee, must attend to the wishes of three Senate Republican holdouts: Susan Collins, Jeff Flake, and Lisa Murkowski. His latest strategy is to move to end debate midweek, which would set up a vote to cut off debate on the Kavanaugh nomination on Friday. That in turn would set up a potential Sunday confirmation vote. 'But that timetable means the FBI investigation must be complete by Wednesday, and that's where the situation becomes dicey for McConnell,' Politico reported. The FBI was on track to quickly wrap up its probe under initial direction to interview just four witnesses. But the latest direction, after an outcry from Democrats and a few Republicans, instructed agents to follow the leads they deem fit. NBC had reported the FBI was authorized only to query only four people: witnesses to the alleged assault by Christine Blasey Ford, Ford herself, and fellow accuser Deborah Ramirez, under arrangements also made with the Senate Judiciary Committee. The others were Kavanaugh friend Mark Judge and P.J. Smyth, as well as Ford friend Leland Keyser, who Ford says attended the party where Kavanaugh allegedly assaulted her. But Collins was among those arguing the FBI should be allowed to interview a third Kavanaugh accuser, Julie Swetnick, who is represented by Stormy Daniels attorney Michael Avenatti, and who claims Kavanaugh was present during a gang rape at a house party. Under an agreement reached with Flake and other holdouts, the White House gave the FBI instruction to complete its investigation by the end of the week. If the FBI does not finish its probe by Wednesday, McConnell and GOP leaders are likely to hold off until it is completed. As before, a key vote is Sen. Susan Collins of Maine. Her spokeswoman, Annie Clark, said Collins, Sen. Jeff Flake, and Sen. Lisa Murkowski 'advocated for the additional background investigation because she believed that it could help the senators evaluate the claims that have been brought to the Judiciary Committee,' 'That would include the allegations that were brought by Julie Swetnick,' she told the Portland Press Herald. Senate Judiciary Committee member Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ) (C) speaks with colleagues after a hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on September 28, 2018, on the nomination of Brett M. Kavanaugh to be an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States FBI investigators 'can determine whom they need to speak with and should follow appropriate leads. Senator Collins was encouraged by the President's statements that he would give the FBI agents the latitude they need to do their work. It makes sense to start with the four named witnesses from the hearing and then the FBI can follow any leads that it believes need to be pursued, as Senators Flake, Murkowski, and Collins indicated at the time this agreement was made,' Clark said. McConnell's more deliberative pace is a departure from late September after Ford's bombshell allegations emerged. Kavanaugh has strongly denied them. 'In the very near future, Judge Kavanaugh will be on the United States Supreme Court,' McConnell vowed at a Value Voters Summit . 'So my friends, keep the faith, don't get rattled by all of this. We're going to plow right through it and do our job,' he said. Campaigning in first-in-the-nation primary state New Hampshire, Flake got asked what would cause him to oppose Kavanaugh. He responded by pointing to 'any evidence that corroborates' assault allegations, MyChamplainValley.com reported. 'Any nominee that lies to the committee, that is disqualifying,' Flake added. He also has called for a thorough investigation. 'It does us no good to have an investigation that just gives us more cover,' he told a Forbes summit. A high school student allegedly set a teacher's hair on fire after accusing her of 'checking out the black kids' over a stinkbomb. The Haywood High School teacher went to monitor the back of the room after the stinkbomb was set off, when a student used a lighter to set her hair on fire, according to the Brownsville Police Department. Haywood County Schools Superintendent Joey Hassell told the Jackson Sun: 'The teacher went over to a group of students. When she turned away, I think the student took a lighter and it got the back of her hair.' A high school student allegedly set a teacher's hair on fire after another student set off a stinkbomb in her classroom. The incident occurred Friday morning at Haywood High School (pictured) in Tennessee The teacher claimed that some of the students 'got in her face' and asked her why she was 'checking out the black kids'. As the teacher walked away, her teacher assistant yelled that her hair was on fire, prompting the teacher to pat her hair to extinguish the flames. She didn't require medical attention. School officials later found a black cigarette at the back of the classroom. Three students were interviewed by administrators and one was charged with aggravated assault. Hassell also said the student has been expelled from the school. Hassell told the news site that a disciplinary hearing will be held for the student within the next week. 'We just will not tolerate that behavior,' Hassell said. The unidentified teacher returned to school Monday morning. Vice President of Atlanta Motor Speedway Michael Bruner of McDonough, Georgia, was taken into custody early on Monday after a neighbor reported that a man had been looking through their other neighbor's window for '30-40 minutes' The Vice President of Atlanta Motor Speedway has been suspended and banned from the property after being arrested on suspicion of peeping into his neighbor's daughter's bedroom. Michael Bruner of McDonough, Georgia was taken into custody early on Monday after a neighbor called the Henry County police department just after 1.00am and reported that a man had been looking through Scott Warshaw's window for '30-40 minutes.' Bruner, who was wearing a black ski mask at the time of his arrest, ran when police arrived, and when eventually caught, said, 'Ya'll are gonna ruin my life,' according to the police report. When police walked him to the patrol car and removed his ski mask, Warshaw said he and his wife 'almost died' and 'couldn't believe' the man was Bruner, who is 'well known throughout the community'. Bruner, who denies any wrongdoing, has been charged with obstruction, criminal trespass and felony peeping. Warshaw told Channel 2 News that he was first alerted by a neighbor who called the police after spotting the peeping tom at Eagles Landing gated community home on Winged Foot Drive. 'The neighbor called us and said, "I have called the police. I just got off the phone and theyre here. Ive been watching this guy for 30 or 40 minutes peeping in your daughters room,"' Warshaw said. When police arrived at the home within the Eagles Landing gated community, they said they found Bruner standing at Warshaw's window and looking into the basement, while dressed all in black and wearing a ski mask, NBC reported. Warshaw said the window where Bruner was found led to his daughter's room, adding that police had to wrestle the executive's phone away from him when they caught him. Homeowner Scott Warshaw told Channel 2 News that he was first alerted by a neighbor who called the police after spying the peeping tom outside his home in the Eagles Landing gated community Burner said he was not peeping, but instead was 'just cutting between the houses to go home after jogging through the neighborhood,' according to the police report; The entry to the gated community is shown here 'When they pulled that ski mask off and pulled the hoodie back, and I saw it was Mike Bruner I mean, my wife and I almost died,' Warshaw said. 'We couldnt believe it. Im still in shock.' Burner said he was not peeping, but instead was 'just cutting between the houses to go home after jogging through the neighborhood,' according to the police report. After the arrest, Bruner was abruptly suspended from his top-level role at Atlanta Motor Speedway. 'Atlanta Motor Speedway is aware of the allegations made against Michael Bruner and takes these allegations seriously. Bruner has been suspended indefinitely and is currently prohibited from Speedway property,' a representative for the venue said in a statement. 'Atlanta Motor Speedway has no further comment at this time.' Councils will be allowed to borrow more money to build new homes, Theresa May announced today. The PM said councils would no longer be capped on how much they can borrow against their Housing Revenue Account assets effectively loaning against their property to free up cash to build homes. Local government leaders welcomed the move today and signalled it would unlock a new wave of housebuilding in the UK. Councils will be allowed to borrow more money to build new homes, Theresa May (pictured making her conference speech) announced to Tory activists today Tory sources said the cap on borrowing was cited by many councils as the biggest thing stopping them from building new council homes. They said that in the 1980s some local authorities were able to build 10,000 homes a year - but that in some cases this had fallen into the hundreds. Mrs May told the conference: 'Solving the housing crisis is the biggest domestic policy challenge of our generation. 'It doesn't make sense to stop councils from playing their part in solving it. So today I can announce that we are scrapping that cap. 'We will help you get on the housing ladder and we will build the homes this country needs.' The new policy is on top of the 9billion Affordable Housing Programme for councils and 2billion in Government cash to fund affordable homes. Local government leaders welcomed the move today and signalled it would unlock a new wave of housebuilding in the UK (file image) Chartered Institute of Housing director of policy and external affairs Gavin Smart said: 'This is excellent news and we look forward to seeing the detail. 'We have been calling on the government to lift the local authority borrowing cap to help councils build more genuinely affordable homes so it's great to see the Prime Minister listening to the voice of housing professionals. 'If we are to have any hope of tackling our national housing crisis, councils must play a critical role and this move will help them reach their potential.' Lord Porter, Chairman of the Local Government Association, said: 'Today's speech by the Prime Minister shows that the Government has heard our argument that councils must be part of the solution to our chronic housing shortage. 'It is fantastic that the Government has accepted our long-standing call to scrap the housing borrowing cap. 'We look forward to working with councils and the Government to build those good quality affordable new homes and infrastructure that everyone in our communities need.' Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: 'This is the most exciting, and potentially transformative, announcement on council housing for many years. 'It is something the house building sector and local authorities have been crying out for since the last economic downturn as a means by which to increase house building.' Investigators believe that a serial killer who pleaded guilty to killing four people may be responsible for as many as 21 additional unsolved murders The latest case to be tied to Colorado serial killer Scott Kimball, who dubbed himself 'Hannibal Lecter', is in Utah, where authorities are reviving a 1998 cold-case homicide. According to search warrant filed in Logan County, Colorado, in December of 2017, 'Kimball told Colorado investigators that he killed 21 people, one of them being a hitchhiker on a bridge near Hite, Utah, in 1998 or 1999.' Citing that confession and other evidence, investigators said on Tuesday that Kimball, who is currently serving 70 years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder charge, is the only person of interest in the 1998 slay of an unidentified woman known only as the Maidenwater victim. Did he do it? Utah authorities are looking into the unsolved 1998 murder of an unidentified woman in her 30s or 40s (left), which they believe might be the handiwork of convicted serial killer Scott Kimball (right) The woman's body was covered with plastic bags, wrapped in duct tape, tied with a rope and placed inside a sleeping bag The body was found on the side of Utah State road 276, about 36 miles north of Lake Powell State Bureau of Investigation Agent Brian Davis says that evidence includes a complicated rope knot like one used on a Kimball victim and a colorful child's play rug matching one his son had in 1998, when he was five years old. Davis says they're also still trying to identify the Maidenwater victim, currently officially known only as 'Jane Doe,' whose body was found in southeastern Utah near Lake Powell. DNA indicates Native American or Hispanic descent. Kimball confessed to the murders of Kaysi McLeod, 19, Jennifer Marcum, 25, LeAnn Emry, 24, and his uncle Terry Kimball, 60, which occurred between 2003 and 2004. When first speaking with Emry, Kimball had used the alias 'Hannibal,' giving himself the sinister nickname inspired by the character of a cannibalistic serial killer in the hit thriller The Silence of the Lambs. His deadly spree began a month after he was released from prison in 2002 to become an FBI informant in a drug case. Kimball has previously denied in involvement in other cold-case killings. Evidence: The Utah 'Jane Doe,' known as the Maidenwater victim, was tied up with a complicated rope knot like the one Kimball used on his uncle, Terry Kimball This image shows pieces of evidence gathered by police at the scene of the crime The woman's body was wrapped in this distinct play rug matching one his son said he had in 1998, when he was five years old According to a 2001 press release from the Utah Attorney General's Office, on April 20, 1998, a woman's body was found on the side of Utah State road 276, about 36 miles north of Lake Powell. The victim was described as being between 37-45 years old, 5-foot-1 to 5-foot-3 in height and weighing 112lbs, with dark-brown, wavy shoulder-length hair and brown eyes. The victim had freckles, tattooed eyebrows, extensive dental work and multiple small, dark moles on her upper lip, chin, left shoulder and right ear. She was covered with plastic bags, wrapped in duct tape, tied with a rope and placed inside a sleeping bag before being wrapped in carpet. Investigators have been able to determine that Kimbell was in Southern Utah around the time the Jane Doe murder occurred. Two of Kimball's confirmed victims were found in Utah near the location where the unidentified victim turned up. 'At this point, Scott Kimball is our sole suspect,' said Agent Davis. According to a SBI report from last year, in August 2017, Davis and another agent traveled to the Sterling Correctional Facility in Colorado to interview Kimball about the 1998 cold case. Kimball, dubbed 'Hannibal Lecter,' is currently serving 70 years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder charges (seen in a 2003 mugshot) Confirmed victims: Kimball admitted to killing four people between 2003 and 2004, including (L to R) LeAnn Emry, 24, Kaysi McLeod, 19, and Jennifer Marcum, 25 Who is she? Police are asking for the public's help in identifying the slain Utah Jane Doe, seen here in a sketch 'Ultimately, Scott denied any knowledge or involvement with this murder,' the report said. 'He stated that his statements from previous interview, in which he hinted at having involved, were all 'made up'. He stated he did that to try and help himself, and improve his situation.' After a two-and-a-half-hour interview, the convicted murderer told the agents that if they had 'real evidence' tying him to the April 1998 killing, then they would arrest him. Anyone with information on this case or the identity of the victim is being asked to call DPS at 801-887-3800. A trainer accused of doping his underdog greyhound with a cocktail of drugs including crystal meth to make it run faster has been arrested. Queensland man Anthony Hess, 44, has been hit with 70 serious drug and fraud charges after allegedly drugging his dog to win races, profiting from the long odds. Detectives allege his greyhound, named Bonknocka Lass, was doped with meth prior to three separate races. On August 2, the greyhound was priced a staggering $44.70 as a huge outsider at Albion Park for a 520metre race, but went on to win convincingly. The allegedly meth-fuelled greyhound won a second race a week later despite being given $8.60 odds, only to fall short in a third race. Greyhound trainer Anthony Hess (pictured) is facing serious drugs and fraud charges after police alleged he doped his greyhounds with with methylamphetamine before races It's alleged the dog was on a cocktail of drugs made up of methamphetamines, pseudoephedrine and amphetamines, the Courier Mail reported. Queensland Racing Integrity Commissioner Ross Barnett said the alleged offences were 'shocking'. 'I commend the efforts of the Commissions staff including the Integrity Investigations Team and stewards in bringing this to the QRCS resulting in this arrest,' he said. Hess has since had his Greyhound Training Licence suspended by the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission, effective immediately. Detectives from the Queensland Racing Crime Squad will allege Hess doped his greyhound, Bonknocka Lass, with meth prior to it racing at $44 odds (file photo) Queensland Racing Integrity Commissioner Ross Barnett said the move was in accordance with 'the Commission''s Greyhound Standard for a licensing scheme'. 'The Standard, endorsed by the Commission on 1 July 2016, also states that an applicant must be assessed as a fit and proper person to be granted a licence,' he said. 'Including the ability to display good character and operate within the laws and regulations of the State of Queensland.' Hess was arrested on September 28 before appearing in the Richlands Magistrates Court on Tuesday. He is facing 70 charges encompassing drugs and fraud including 62 counts of supplying dangerous drugs between July 2017 and August this year. Serial rapist Ronnie Shelton (pictured) took his own life last week by jumping from the roof of a prison A serial rapist facing a prison sentence of more than 3,000 years has killed himself by jumping from an Ohio prison building. Ronnie Shelton raped more than 30 women during a string of attacks in the 1980s, and was found guilty of 220 counts of rape in 1989. He fractured his skull when he jumped from a building at the Grafton Correctional Institution last week, and was pronounced dead later that day, WKYC reported. Police do not suspect foul play, but it is not known how Shelton, 57, got to the roof, and an investigation is ongoing. Shelton, also referred to as the West Park Rapist, was sentenced to between 1,556 and 3,195 years jail for his heinous crimes, which were targeted at women in their 20s who were home alone. Shelton was given a sentence of up to 3,195 years after being found guilty of 220 counts of rape, committed over six years. He was 30 years into his sentence when he died He would also steal the women's bank cards and demanded the PIN to withdraw money. This proved to be his undoing, as he was finally captured after an ATM snapped his picture when he tried to withdraw money using a rape victim's card. When Shelton was finally arrested, he told the court his greatest wish was to receive the death penalty. 'My honest to God wish is, that I wish that I wish to be injected with Sodium Pentothal,' he told the court. He was 30 years into his sentence when he took his own life. Eleanor Wilson, pictured at Bristol Crown Court today, is accused of having sex with a pupil on a plane home from a school trip and later telling him she was pregnant. She is pictured with a male supporter A teacher who allegedly became pregnant after having sex with a schoolboy in a plane toilet contacted him 339 times over eight months, a court heard today. Science teacher Eleanor Wilson and her 16-year-old pupil exchanged 295 texts, 23 calls, 13 voicemails and eight multi-media messages between August 2015 and March 2016. The content could not be recovered by police and the boy claims Wilson told him to delete the messages. Wilson, 29, is on trial at Bristol Crown Court accused of luring the boy into a plane cubicle on a BA flight home from a school trip in Africa in August 2015 and later telling him she was pregnant with his child. Earlier today, the court heard evidence from Wilson's ex-boyfriend Andrew Hall. He said he was unlikely to be the father of her terminated child because they only slept together once every six months. Mr Hall told her trial he couldn't be the father because their sex life was so bad and broke up with Ms Wilson a year after the alleged illicit encounter when he read about it online. He said: 'In the last 18 months of our relationship we very rarely had intercourse and we never had unprotected intercourse. 'It would be incredibly unlikely for her to get pregnant - we were having sex every six months. 'Our sex life couldn't have got worse. I uncovered she was having an unacceptable relationship with somebody else 'Ellie was on the contraceptive pill for the majority of our relationship. As far as I am aware she was never on any form of contraception other than pill. 'When she returned from Africa there was not much sexual activity. 'It is incredibly unlikely that she could have got pregnant - we used condoms and I never had any concern.' Mr Hall said police informed him his ex-partner had become pregnant in an interview in December 2017 - almost two years later. The prosecutor in the case described Wilson (pictured) as 'bright and capable' but a 'risk-taker'. Eleanor Wilson, who denies four charges of sexual activity with a child by a person in a position of trust, leaves Bristol Crown Court today Wilson, 29, failed to tell her then-boyfriend Andrew Hall she was pregnant and lied to him about having an abortion, a court heard He recalled the day in which Wilson was collected from the abortion clinic by a colleague - but said she told him she suffered vaginal bleeding and had to go to hospital to remove a 'blockage'. The jury heard how Wilson was taken to the clinic by her teaching assistant who dropped her off at home. Mr Hall described Wilson being dropped off by a colleague as 'not the normal arrangement' on day three of the trial. Mr Hall also described overhearing Wilson having a drunken conversation at home in the downstairs living room after he had gone to bed. He listened at the door and heard Wilson say 'I knew you wouldn't tell anybody; I knew I could trust you' - but she denied being on the phone when he confronted her minutes later, the jury heard. Mr Hall told the court: 'The two phrases jumped out at me. 'They were suspicious - I opened the door and Ellie went to hang up the phone immediately, she was mid-conversation when I went into the room. 'I asked her who she was speaking to and she denied she was on the phone which made me more suspicious - she was very defensive; I was calm, bemused. 'I continued to challenge her and she eventually told me she had been on the phone to her brother which didn't make sense - I told her I didn't believe her. 'She then drunkenly left the house. It was bizarre.' Mr Hall said he was aware Wilson had been dismissed for gross misconduct - but said he'd been told it was because 'she didn't report students getting drunk' on a school trip. Wilson, 29, has pleaded not guilty to abuse of position and sexual activity with a child and is on trial in Bristol He did not know about the allegations of sex on the aeroplane until he read an online news report. He said: 'I heard the allegations and was upset - I sent her message because I was concerned for her welfare. 'She said it had all been blown up by the media - and admitted to some of the elements of The National College for Teaching and Leadership report about her dismissal. 'The report showed she had been dishonest to me on more than one occasion.' But Anna Midgley, defending, challenged Mr Hall's account of the incident in which he heard Wilson talking on the phone - accusing him of being 'jealous' and 'physically aggressive' towards the defendant. Ms Midgley said: 'You were physically wrestling to make her show you the mobile phone. 'Your account is that she ran away because she was drunk - you were being physically aggressive and she had just been hurt during the struggle. 'At the end of your relationship she left you and not the other way around.' Ms Midgley claimed Mr Hall threatened to push Wilson down a flight of stairs if she became pregnant and that he made reference to a 'coat hanger'. He denied this. Wilson, of Dursley, Gloucestershire, denies four charges of sexual activity with a child by a person in a position of trust between August and September 2015. She was a respected teacher and head of Key Stage Four at a secondary school in Bristol which cannot be named for legal reasons. Giving evidence on Wednesday, Wilson said she 'clutched onto' the boy because she was lonely and had no friends, the court head. She also said she was 'idiot' for giving the boy her mobile phone number in a police interview read to the court. Wilson described being shown his bedroom after giving him a lift home from Nando's - and calling him while on holiday with her ex-boyfriend Andrew Hall in Italy. She told police the pair 'sat down in a field' at Tintern Abbey - but said they didn't kiss and that 'he was a student and I felt like I was helping him'. The teacher said: 'I found the boy needed looking after. I thought he was treating me like a sister 'It probably wasn't flirting - it was only flirty over text. It was more flirty over text. 'In Africa I don't think there was anything where I would say that was really flirty. 'I don't really have a lot of friends - I clutched onto boy being a friend because I didn't have anyone else to talk to. '[After Nando's back at his house] I went to his bedroom - he showed me it but i didn't go in there. 'He waited in there and I went to the loo. I was in his house for 20 minutes to half an hour. '[I gave him my number] because i'm an idiot. I didn't think he would really text me or anything. 'He showed me around his house and he was like 'I don't know what i'm going to be able to do - can i have your number?' and I said 'OK here it is' which is a misjudgement on my part. 'When I went holiday he was like I'm not going to talk to you. 'I was in Florence like at the start of the holiday and I called him and we were just walking back because it was really busy on the side streets and I got lost. 'I thought of ringing the boy because i'd been talking to him a lot - I was drunk and trying to find my way back. 'I ended up walking to a park and I was like sorry I'm really drunk so i was like rambling on. I got back to the hotel and said i got lost on the way back and he was like you muppet. 'We went to Tintern Abbey because I wanted to meet him somewhere public. 'I said 'Let's just split' and he said 'No I want to treat you' then we sat down in a field and I took him home. Sometimes I would phone him. Eleanor Wilson leaves court on Wednesday 'I said I can't be talking to you anymore it's not appropriate. 'I was obviously scared of losing my job because I knew the times I had met him I should not have done.' Ms Midgley, defending, on Tuesday claimed the schoolboy's story was 'fabricated' and that he was 'infatuated' with the blonde teacher, who denies all charges. The trial heard an account of how their relationship evolved after the flight. Wilson allegedly kissed the boy in his bedroom after giving him a lift home from a post-holiday school meal at Nando's, attended by other teachers and pupils. They allegedly met again when Wilson took the boy on a date to Tintern Abbey, Monmouthshire, where they spent time 'rolling around on the grass' and 'kissing'. The fourth charge relates to another date in which they allegedly kissed at Ashton Court, near Bristol. Statements from the boy's ex-girlfriend, his friend and a teacher at the school were read to the court. The teacher said Wilson 'didn't have much common sense' and 'could be silly'. She said the boy 'began to refer to Ellie by her first name' and that she 'found this odd' and reprimanded him. The teacher added: 'Ellie definitely had her favourite students.' The boy's friend said he had been shown text message conversations between he and Wilson. He said in the statement: 'He showed me texts on his phone which were about them missing each other and how they can't wait to see each other again.' The boy's ex-girlfriend, who he is said to have broken up with on advice from Wilson, said his behaviour was 'odd' after he returned from the Africa trip. She said he revealed all the details of their sexual encounter on the return flight - and that he and Wilson had started a relationship together. Jeremy Corbyn has destroyed the Labour Party and replaced it with an extreme one in his own image, Theresa May warned today. The Prime Minister launched a furious attack on the Labour leader for seizing control of the party of Clement Attlee and Neil Kinnock. She said Labour had once been proud of Britain and its institutions even while there were profound policy differences. But she said in the Commons moderate Labour MPs now stared 'blankly' from the backbenches during PMQs with the new party monopolising the front bench. Jeremy Corbyn has destroyed the Labour Party and replaced it with an extreme one in his own image, Theresa May (pictured today at Tory conference) warned today Mrs May said: 'The Jeremy Corbyn Party rejects the common values that once bridged our political divide.' She said: 'What has befallen Labour is a national tragedy. 'What has it come to when Jewish families today seriously discuss where they should go if Jeremy Corbyn becomes prime minister? 'When a leading Labour MP says his party is ''institutionally racist''? 'When the leader of the Labour Party is happy to appear on Iranian state TV but attacks our free media here in Britain? 'That is what Jeremy Corbyn has done to the Labour Party. It is our duty, in this Conservative Party, to make sure he can never do it to our country.' The Prime Minister launched a furious attack on Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn (pictured in the Midlands last week) for seizing control of the party of Clement Attlee and Neil Kinnock In a section on Russia and national security, Mrs May said she had confronted Russia over the Salisbury attack and coordinated an international response. She blasted: 'There was just one dissenting voice Jeremy Corbyn. 'Dismissing the findings of our security services. Suggesting that the country responsible for the attack should double-check the findings of our chemical weapons scientists. Refusing to lay the blame squarely where it belonged. 'Just imagine if he were Prime Minister. He says Britain should disarm herself in the hope others follow suit. 'I say no we must keep our defences strong to keep our country safe. 'He says a strong NATO simply provokes Russia. I say no it is the guarantor of our freedom and security. 'He poses as a humanitarian. But he says that military action to save lives is only justified with the approval of the Security Council effectively giving Russia a veto. 'I say no we cannot outsource our conscience to the Kremlin.' About Me Scott Because prophetic scriptures are found throughout the bible, it is obvious that a comprehensive, systematic approach would be useful, if not necessary, for the understanding of prophecy. Past prophecies have been fulfilled in a literal manner, as confirmed by the dating of these writings and historical records of confirmation. These past prophecies also serve as a model of how to interpret future prophecies. A literal view of prophecy clearly indicates a certain sequence of events will occur within a single generation, concluding with the Tribulation and Second Advent and these events will be obvious. The prophetic signs appear to be present in this generation and we believe these signs are revealed in the news from around the world. View my complete profile Diane Abbott slapped back at Theresa May today after the PM condemned the wave of vile abuse that she suffers. The premier highlighted the slurs directed at the Labour frontbencher - the first black woman elected as an MP - in her conference speech. She bemoaned a 'change for the worse' in politics over recent years saying 'rigorous debate' was becoming a 'confrontation between enemies'. Mrs May highlighted the 'sickening pictures' of a hard-Left extremist shouting abuse at the children of Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg children. But she added that it was 'not only Conservatives who are facing abuse'. Theresa May highlighted the slurs directed at Diane Abbott (pictured) - the first black woman elected as an MP - in her conference speech Ms Abbott was less than impressed by the PM's defence, saying 'nice words' were undermined by 'personal attacks' during the election campaign 'The first black woman ever to be elected to the House of Commons receives more racist and misogynist messages today than when she first stood over 30 years ago,' Mrs May said. 'You do not have to agree with a word Diane Abbott says to believe passionately in her right to say it, free from threats and abuse. 'Some people have lost sight of the fact that political differences are not everything. 'I have served in local and national government, in office and in opposition. 'I know that no party has a monopoly on good ideas.' It was the second time Ms Abbott had been mentioned on the stage during the conference, after Sajid Javid criticised her treatment during his speech earlier in the week. But Ms Abbott responded by saying the 'nice words' were at odds with the actions of the Conservatives. 'Some nice words from Tory leaders like Theresa May and Sajid Javid. Makes you wonder who was responsible for the Tory party's relentless personal attacks in the general election campaign 2017.' In her speech today, Mrs May delivered a grim assessment of the way Jeremy Corbyn and the hard-Left had changed the Labour Party. She pointed to the anti-Semitism crisis and the way the party's moderate MPs were treated, as well as the abuse faced by Conservatives. 'When our politics becomes polarised, and compromise becomes a dirty word, that becomes harder,' she said. 'And good people are put off public service. It doesnt have to be this way. 'Our Party has more elected representatives than any other. In her speech today, Mrs May delivered a grim assessment of the way Jeremy Corbyn and the hard-Left had changed the Labour Party 'We have in our hands the power to set a standard of decency that will be an example for others to follow.' Mrs may quoted the late US politician John McCain, who said: We argue and compete and sometimes even vilify each other in our raucous public debates. But we have always had so much more in common with each other than in disagreement. She said that was the message murdered Labour MP Jo Cox had passed on as well. 'It is a truth that the British people instinctively understand, because they are not ideologues. 'They know we all have a common stake in this country and that the only path to a better future is one that we walk down together. 'So, lets rise above the abuse. Lets make a positive case for our values that will cut through the bitterness and bile that is poisoning our politics.' More than 11 million people are under a flash flood watch in the Southwest US as Tropical Storm Rosa continues to spread. Rosa was downgraded from a Category 4 hurricane on Tuesday, but that hasn't stopped the storm's heavy - and potentially dangerous - rainfall. It has already dumped more than 2 inches of rain on much of Arizona, and flash flood watches remain in effect for southern California, Nevada, Idaho, Utah, and Colorado. 'These rainfall amounts may produce life-threatening flash flooding,' the National Hurricane Center said. More than 11 million people are under a flash flood watch in the Southwest US as Tropical Storm Rosa continues to spread. Pictured is a man walking through a flooded Phoenix street on Tuesday A driver waits to get towed out of flooded street during a flash flood as a result of heavy rains from Tropical Storm Rosa on Tuesday 'Dangerous debris flows and landslides are also possible in mountainous terrain.' Rosa is also expected to drench Baja California with 3 to 6 inches of rain, while some areas could see as much as 10 inches, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm is expected to move out of Arizona by Wednesday afternoon and next bring rain to both Utah and Colorado. Remnants of Rosa have already dropped a record amount of rain on Phoenix. National Weather Service meteorologists say 2.35 inches of rain was recorded at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport as of Tuesday night. That made it the rainiest October day since records have been kept, topping the 2.32 inches recorded on October 14, 1988. It also marked the eighth rainiest day in Phoenixs history. Vehicles wait to get towed from a flooded street during a flash flood from Rosa's rainfall A parking lot full of cars at a business complex is covered with flood waters during a flash flood in Phoenix on Tuesday A Jeep drives through a flooded street to get sand bags to deliver to local businesses during a flash flood in Phoenix on Tuesday Pedestrians walk through a flooded street as they try to unclog storm drains in Phoenix Rainfall from Rosa since Sunday totaled 2.63 inches by Tuesday night, surpassing the total amount of rainfall recorded at Phoenix airport during the entire Arizona monsoon season this year - which runs from mid-June to end of September. Phoenix firefighters rescued at least six people including a small child from vehicles trapped in a flooded intersection on Tuesday morning. The rescues, which were broadcast on TV, showed firefighters slogging through nearly waist-deep water and carrying people one at a time to a firetruck. A nearby riverbed that is normally dry overflowed, spilling muddy water onto the street. About 10 vehicles including a bus were at a standstill in the water or trying to drive through it. Business owners fill up sand bags from the back of a truck as they try to protect businesses in Phoenix on Tuesday A vehicle drives through a partially flooded street during a flash flood as a result of heavy rains in Phoenix Some streets and schools were closed in the metro Phoenix area after more than 2 inches fell and there was also flooding reported around Tucson. In southern Arizona, heavy rain on Monday flooded streets the city Yuma at the US-Mexico border and caused power outages in parts of the city. On Tuesday afternoon, Utah Gov Gary Herbert declared a state of emergency in advance of potential flooding from the remnants of Rosa. The National Weather Service issued a flash-flood watch for much of Utah as what remains of the storm moved across the state. Herbert said communities near burn scars created by recent wildfires were at an increased risk for flash flooding and debris flow. Rosa is expected to move out of Arizona by Wednesday afternoon and next bring rain to both Utah and Colorado Rosa is also expected to drench Baja California with 3 to 6 inches of rain, while some areas could see as much as 10 inches, according to the National Hurricane Center The governor mobilized about 200 National Guard soldiers to prepare for potential flooding south of Salt Lake City. The soldiers planned to build flood berms and erect barriers and sandbags. Hurricanes or tropical storms in the US Southwest are historically rare, but have begun to increase in recent years. 'Warmer oceans are allowing eastern Pacific storms to reach higher latitudes,' meteorologist Gene Normal told KTLA. 'This was not the case earlier. It was quite rare for an eastern Pacific storm to even reach Baja California, and this is now becoming more common.' 'It is possible that this could be a side effect of climate change.' Frightening images emerged Tuesday as riverbeds overflowed and sudden downpours trapped people in their cars like this motorist in Phoenix Tropical Storm Rosa caused flooding in Arizona, turning neighborhoods into muddy pools Tuesday morning the down creek on west side of Gila Bend flooded with some occasional small debris Rosa swiftly weakened as it approached shore on Monday night, losing tropical storm status early Tuesday morning. It will remain a tropical rainstorm through midweek as it moves through the southwest region. Rosa reportedly claimed at least one victim in northwestern Mexico before moving north into the US. The Civil Defense agency for Mexico's Baja California state said schools were closed Monday in several communities. Mexican federal authorities declared a state of emergency for Ensenada and Mexicali. Mexican media outlets reported that a woman was swept away by floodwaters and drowned in the city of Caborca, Sonora, on the Sea of Cortez. At least 10 cars were stranded and firefighters rescued people out of flooded vehicles on Tatum Boulevard near Cactus Boulevard in Phoenix, Arizona Frightening scenes of motorists having to be rescued in the flooded street where at least one child was also carried to safety A California playhouse is bringing Princess Dianas story to the stage in Diana: The Musical. The theater production will star Jeanna de Waal, a rising British stage actress, as the Peoples Princess when it begins showing this February. Diana: The Musical will focus on Princess Diana and Prince Charless troubled marriage. The Duke of Cornwall, his wife Camilla Parker Bowles and the Queen will all be represented. Diana: The Musical, a play about Princess Diana's marriage, is coming to La Jolla Playhouse in La Jolla, California this February Jeanna de Waal will be playing Princess Diana in the upcoming theater production, Diana: The Musical A description of the play on La Jolla Playhouses website reads: In 1981, an assistant kindergarten teacher married the Prince of Wales and, overnight, became the most famous woman in the world. But behind the fairy tale, there was a troubled marriage and young woman struggling to find her voice. Facing an entrenched monarchy and unprecedented media scrutiny, Princess Diana surprises everyone including herself as she grows into a global phenomenon and manages to change the world. Diana: The Musical was written by Joe DiPietro. He told the New York Post he had high hopes for this production and wouldnt skimp if it were to make it to Broadway. This is a woman who used style and fashion to gain power, he said. Tickets to Diana: The Musical are available now. Want to know more about this production and how you can be there to see it live? Weve got you covered. What is Diana: The Musical? Diana: The Musical is a theater production showing at La Jolla Playhouse in La Jolla, California. It was written by Joe DiPietro in collaboration with Christopher Ashley and David Bryan. The play focuses on Princess Dianas marriage to Prince Charles and the dark secrets that surrounded it. Jeanna de Waal will star as Princess Diana in Diana: The Musical. Prince Charles, the Duchess of Cornwall, the Queen and other Royals will be represented. Its unclear who will play them in Diana: The Musical, however. The @ljplayhouse tabs Broadway veteran @thebigdewaal to play title role of Princess Diana in new musical, "Diana" It opens in February in La Jolla pic.twitter.com/pxlISaDTL9 Jared Aarons (@10NewsAarons) September 27, 2018 When is Diana: The Musical showing? You can catch Diana: The Musical at La Jolla Playhouse from February 19, 2019 until March 31, 2019. Where will Diana: The Musical be shown? Diana: The Musical productions will all be held at the Mandell Weiss Theater, which hosts all La Jolla Playhouse events. The theater is located on the University of California San Diego campus. Diana: The Musical songs So far we know about 23 original songs have been written for Diana: The Musical. David Bryan told Playbill: 'I gave them musical characters to differentiate. Diana is pop-rock, royalty is string quartet, we have paparazzi as punk guitars and we try to make all those roles live on top of each other.' We also know Diana will have a solo at the end of the play's first act called A Pretty Girl in a Pretty Dress. The song will deal with Prince Charles's affair with his now-wife, Camilla Parker Bowles. Diana: The Musical tickets Tickets to Diana: The Musical are available now. Tickets appear to range from $76 to $96 per seat, depending where in the theater you plan to be. This is the distressing moment a lion cub nuzzles and licks a sharp beer can which was carelessly littered by a tourist. The big cat played with the discarded can for half an hour and was 'lucky not to slice its tongue', according to Steve Haley, who caught the scenes on film. The tourist, from Cumbria, shot the footage while on a trip to Kruger National Park in South Africa. A lion cub nuzzled, licked and played with a sharp beer can which was littered by a tourist The animal was lucky not to slice its tongue or lip as it played with the can for half an hour, according to a witness He said: 'The cub found the discarded beer can in the riverbed below the bridge I was viewing from and protected it from all the other cubs. 'I watched this activity for a good half an hour and I guess the can was thrown there by some idiot who has no respect or regard for the wild and the animals that live in this beautiful park. 'To throw a beer can out of the window anywhere would be a disgrace let alone a sanctuary for wildlife. Tourist Steve Haley, who caught it on film, shot the footage while on a trip to Kruger National Park in South Africa Mr Haley, from Cumbria, blasted the culprit, saying: 'The can was thrown there by some idiot who has no respect or regard for the wild and the animals' 'The lion could easily have sliced its lip or tongue but seemed careful as if it knew to go easy on the metal. 'I don't think it is a huge issue with rubbish in Kruger but where there are tourists and visitors there is bound to be litter left behind. 'I have never witnessed anything like this before and hope I don't again but even so it made for some very interesting viewing and it was nice to see this big cubbie playing so lovingly with his new toy.' A mother and her young son were left traumatised after a laughing yob threw a soft drink over them at a Burger King restaurant. Video footage shows a male grabbing a drink from the dispenser, before he then pours it all over the mother and her son's head, leaving them soaked. The footage was captured on Snapchat and locals said the incident took place on the evening of Tuesday 2 October, at a Burger King branch in Feltham, London. Scroll for video The male can be seen filling up his cup at the soft drink machine (left) before pouring it over the mother and son at the counter (right) The young boy was left visibly shaken and distressed by the incident. Police were called to the scene, however did not attend. The short clip was originally published on Snapchat by a user called @mobdoddy and has since been shared across social media. The video begins with the thug walking up to the soft drinks machine in the restaurant, he then grabs a cup and pours a beverage into it. The mother and her crying young child can be seen close by and the son is clearly frightened and clutches his mum tightly as he sobs. The child's mother begs the thug to 'Stop it'. But the male then hurls the yellow soft drink at the woman's head, soaking her and her son. The mum is left drenched in the beverage and she grabs her son even tighter to protect him. The mother clutches her son even tighter (left) as he continues to weep after the yob poured the yellow soft drink over them (right) During the incident the mother continues to comfort her son (left) as the Snapchat user (right) continued to film them while laughing As the incident continues, the individual filming is heard gasping in amusement. The Snapchat user known as @moboddy then turns his camera around to show his grinning face which he clutches with his hand. The video then cuts to show the mother trying to walk over to confront the assailant and the man filming the video, as her son continues to weep. Despite the son being clearly distressed the Snapchat user continues laughing and humorously shouting 'Oh sh*t! Oh sh*t!' The mother (pictured) confronted the pair following the appalling attack After the incident, @moboddy filmed himself and the assailant proudly posing to the camera. The user known as @moboddy proudly points at the assailant. He gloats to the camera: 'Can you imagine that this guy went at her three times fam! He is' and then does a gesture to suggest that he is crazy. The video then cuts to an end. After the incident the two men pose for more videos on Snapchat (left) where one congratulates the other for the attack Social media users have condemned the vile attack taking place in front of the child. @snr.kingpin commented: 'Why do people do stuff this she's with a child, is there no respect for elders anymore smh.' Meanwhile @i_amtrouble wrote: 'How is that even funny, ya lucky not over my chid [sic]' and @xalisah lamented: 'Innocent kid smh'. Whilst @originalanarchy said: 'Not with the yute there comeon [sic]' President Donald Trump went after the New York Times accusing it of publishing a 'hit piece' after the paper released an exhaustive analysis of the millions he received from his father and said the Trump children dodged hundreds of millions in taxes. The story, published Tuesday, detailed efforts to transfer business ownership to children, reduce Fred Trump's ownership stake to claim mark-downs in value, and secure property assessments that were millions of dollars below what apartment complexes were worth. It also reveals Trump was earning $200,000 per month as a three year old and was a millionaire by age eight contradicting Trump's business narrative that he built his empire with only a $1 million loan from his dad. Trump also called the story 'very old, boring and often told.' President Donald Trump trashed a New York Times account of decades of financial transfers his father Fred made to his children 'very old, boring and often told' But in his Twitter attack Wednesday, Trump brought up a financial principle called the 'time value of money' which states that a dollar now is worth more than one in the future, since it can be invested or can earn interest. 'The Failing New York Times did something I have never seen done before. They used the concept of 'time value of money' in doing a very old, boring and often told hit piece on me,' Trump said. The Times says its 15,000 word story was based on a review of 100,000 documents it obtained. Among them were Fred Trump's tax returns. The president has refused to release his own, as is the custom going back decades. Then Trump engaged in a bit of is own math. 'Added up, this means that 97% of their stories on me are bad. Never recovered from bad election call!' he added. Fred Trump, Donald Trump and Mary Anne TrumpDonald Trump with mother and father, New York, USA - 1992 SOME DAY THIS WILL ALL BE YOURS: Donald Trump and father Fred C. Trump on the roof of a Trump Village building in Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York Fred Trump, Donald Trump and Mary Anne TrumpDonald Trump with mother and father, New York, USA - 1992 A trove of documents including Fred Trump's tax returns show countless efforts to enrich Donald Trump and set him up to be the successful businessman and public figure and politician that he became. Many of the transfers were made in secret, often in advantageous ways that saved Trump and his siblings hundreds of millions of dollars, according to a deeply reported New York Times analysis. The story also references a sham corporation set up in 1982 called All County Building Supply & Maintenance, whose main purpose as reported appears to be to have marked up the actual cost of purchases, which allowed the landlords to argue for rent increases and avoid gift taxes. Within minutes of its publication New York State tax authorities said they would investigate. Trump sketched a different kind of story on the campaign trail. 'My father gave me a very small loan in 1975, and I built it into a company that's worth many, many billions of dollars,' Trump said. SOME DAY THIS WILL ALL BE YOURS: Donald Trump and father Fred C. Trump on the roof of a Trump Village building in Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York EVERY KID GETS AN ALLOWANCE: Trump even received coin laundry revenue from apartment buildings that had been built by his father YOU'RE HIRED! Trump earned $200,000 a year at age three, and was a millionaire by eight The trove of documents includes secret tax and bank documents, meaning their leak will set off an intense investigation inside the Trump world for who committed such a daring breach of security, and potentially betrayal - and will be fodder to Democrats demanding Trump release his tax returns. In just once example, sourced to the 1995 tax return of Fred Trump, a successful developer of large-scale housing construction projects, Donald Trump and his sibling claimed 25 apartment complexes with 6,988 apartments were worth only $41 million. Less than a decade later, in 2004, banks valued them at $900 million. At the tender age of three, Trump was earning $200,000 a year in 2018 dollars from his dad's business empire, becoming a millionaire by age 8, according to the report. By the time he graduated college - Wharton as Trump likes to point out - Trump was getting $1 million a year in today's dollars an amount that would jump to $5 million a year by the time he hit his 40s. Trump's attack adds to one Tuesday night by White House press secretary Sarah Sanders. Her attack also took on the paper in personal terms. The Times 'can rarely find anything positive' to say about Trump,' she said. But her statement did not seek to rebut specific allegations such as the avoidance of hundreds of millions in gift taxes. 'Fred Trump has been gone for nearly twenty years and it's sad to witness this misleading attack against the Trump family by the failing New York Times. Many decades ago the IRS reviewed and signed off on these transactions,' she said. 'The New York Times' and other media outlets' credibility with the American people is at an all time low because they are consumed with attacking the president and his family 24/7 instead of reporting the news,' Sanders said. In just some of the other revelations: Two femme fatales are wanted by Miami police for allegedly drugging and robbing a man at gunpoint after they met him in a nightclub last month. Police are hoping to identify the glamorous pair caught on surveillance video. The footage shows the victim, wearing ripped designer jeans, a black sweatshirt and a noticeably flashy watch, getting into an elevator in his exclusive condo building with the two women. The women, both dressed in skintight black short dresses, are later seen leaving without the man, who awoke to find $200k in chains, bracelets and watches missing from his apartment - including his $56k Audemars Piguet watch. Scroll down for video Stills from the CCTV footage show the two women suspected of drugging and robbing a man in Miami walking into the building where he lived Kenia Fallat, a spokeswoman for the Miami Police Department, said the victim spent time with the two women inside an unnamed club on the night of September 14 and eventually invited them back to his home in the hi-rise block The Riverfront. Once inside, the women reportedly turned a gun on the victim, forcing him to drink an unknown alcoholic cocktail. The footage is from the security cameras in the victim's high-rise condo building, The Riverfront, in the unit block of Southwest Third Street, Miami Fallat said the man passed out shortly after drinking the substance, and woke up hours later to find more than $200,000 worth of jewelry missing. It is unclear what they had laced the drink with. Apartments in his block are listed between $26,000 and $1.6million. The first thief is described by as a white woman, approximately 30 years old with brown hair and a slim build. She is around 5ft 7" tall and was last seen wearing a black dress. The second thief is also described by police as a white woman, around 30 years old and 5ft 7" tall. However she has blonde hair was last seen wearing a black long-sleeve shirt and black shirt. The victim spent time with the two women inside a club on the night of September 14 and eventually invited them back to his home The two women are pictured in the elevator as they leave the building some time later. The victim is not with them Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. A similar case was reported in May last year when a Florida woman was alleged to have seduced men after meeting them in Miami clubs and making off with their prized possessions. Yomna Fouad, 21, was accused by Alain Rene Galette, 31, of taking off with his clothing, cash, jewerly and a Rolex watch totaling $32,000 in value after the two met at the valet outside of a nightclub before going back to his place. Surveillance footage showed Galette and Fouad entering his building, and then later Fouad leaving by herself, with his belongings, Galette claimed. 'I wake up drugged, not knowing what's going on, and all my stuff missing,' he said. 'She was an innocent face,' Galette added. 'I was not expecting that from her.' Around the same time - June 2017 - but on the other side of the country, California police put out an appeal for information in a similar case. In this instance, a woman allegedly robbed two wealthy men after drugging them with spiked drinks when they returned to an apartment from a Hollywood club. Police in Los Angeles say the unidentified 20-year-old woman stole the men's watches along with jewelry and cash, making off with around $200,000 of goods. She was filmed entering the building on the arm of one man after meeting the pair on a night out. Once inside the home, the victims say she made them a drink laced with drugs and they passed out. Sparking wine lovers worldwide were devastated after footage emerged showing 30,000 litres of Prosecco going to waste when a fermentation tank exploded in Italy. The tank burst and spilled over in Conegliano, Veneto, in the province of Treviso, due to being too full. Video of the incident was posted on Facebook by the L'enoteca Zanardo Giussano winery and has reached over a million views. The post has attracted thousands of comments from grieving Prosecco lovers, many of whom are from Britain - the world's biggest consumers of the drink. Lucy Addison wrote: 'We need to pack up the rubber dinghies and long straws and find this place.' Zoe Hall commented: 'Id be stood underneath with my mouth open and a bucket to catch it and take it home.' Emily Sutton said: 'This may explain why I heart Prosecco has gone up in price?! They lost half the stock?' Around 30,000 litres of Prosecco went to waste after a fermentation tank exploded in Italy And George Tomkins replied: 'My heart is broken... why wasnt I there to help save the day?' It is unclear whether the tank had been overfilled by staff or whether the lid of the tank developed a fault. Fortunately for the wine-producing region, wineries in Veneto have experienced one of the best harvests on record. The tank burst and spilled over in Conegliano, Veneto, in the province of Treviso, due to being too full Almost 600 million bottles are expected to be produced this year. Despite Prosecco being a favourite in Britain, exports have fallen for the first time in a decade. Exports of the Italian sparkling wine dropped by seven per cent in the first half of this year as drinkers increasingly opt for English fizz instead. A brain surgeon accused of raping multiple children briefly appeared in court on Tuesday for the first time in over a year ahead of his trial for sexually assaulting multiple minors. James Kohut, 58, was excused early from the proceedings along with the other two defendants in the case, Rashel Brandon, 44, and Emily Stephens, as an inspector for the Santa Cruz County District Attorney's Office detailed the allegations against the three. Brandon and Stephens, who are both nurses, are accused of running a sex ring with Kohut that included their own children, who were as young as three. Text messages also reveal how the group spoke of having more children for a 'taboo family', where they would all have sexual relations with one another. An inspector with the district attorney's office, Kelli Freitas, stated that Kohut and Stephens, 31, had been involved for eight years. Kohut met Brandon when they worked together in intensive care at Dominican Hospital, Santa Cruz, it is unclear where he met Stephens. She also revealed that Stephens' four children lived in the nude and had sex with adults. Monster: The preliminary hearing for accused child rapists James Kohut (above), Rashel Brandon and Emily Stephens was held on Tuesday in Santa Cruz, California Other women: Kohut had been with Stephens (left) for eight years and Brandon (right) for just a few months when the three were arrested on sex trafficking and abuse charges House of horrors: The home of Brandon (above) where the three adults filmed themselves sexually abusing children The Santa Cruz Sentinel was in court for the hearing on Tuesday. In one video from March 2017, Stephens brought two children to Kohut's home where the doctor orally copulated a girl, 5, as one of the women held her arms down and touched another boy's genitals. He also directed the two women as they engaged in sex acts with the children, who could be seen in the footage referring to Kohut as 'Dr. Daddy' said Freitas Brandon began having a sexual relationship with the doctor in 2016 said Freitas, at which time Kohut expressed his desire to impregnate her and start a taboo family where they would have sex with their children. All three were already having sex with the children of both Brandon and Stephens at that time, according to Freitas, and at one point filmed two hours of footage that allegedly shows them raping some of those children. Freitas also revealed after interviewing one of the children it emerged the trio forced them to have sex with each other and would 'pile their bodies on top of each other'. Testimony later revealed that one of Stephens' children was likely fathered by Kohut. Kohut is charged with 48 felonies while Stephens and Brandon were charged with 45 and 44 respectively in a superseding indictment filed in September of last year. The video is the most damning piece of evidence in the case, and what led to the arrest of the three. Text messages (one above) also reveal how the group spoke of having more children for a 'taboo family' In court on Tuesday, more details were revealed about how and where the video was filmed. It turns out there were videos, with the group taping themselves on a camera, phone and GoPro as they allegedly assaulted the children. Those videos were filmed between January and May of 2017, and one video showed just Stephens. That video was filmed by Brandon at the request of Kohut, who said he wanted to make sure that Stephens would not inform his wife of his taboo relationships and planned to use the tape to guarantee her silence. There were also texts introduced into evidence in which Brandon and Kohut discuss their plan to blackmail Stephens. Freitas stated that Kohut also used the tape to get Stephens to bring her child to him so he could sexually abuse the boy, threatening to release the footage is she did not abide by his demands. Brandon, who cooperated with authorities during the investigation, stated that Kohut had spoke of past relationships with mothers and their children 'He had told her he was molested as a young child by his nanny and her two daughters and he believed it to be a beautiful experience,' Freitas stated in court. 'Mr. Kohut wanted Ms. Stephens to move to Santa Cruz and move in with Ms. Brandon.' This was detailed in court papers opposing a bail reduction for Kohut. That blackmail of Stephens sexually abusing children was used by Kohut to make sure she did not tell his wife and to get alone time with her children (above in text exchange on right) 'Because defendant has a 20 year history, new victims have been found since the initial filing. After the initial filing, G. R. has come forward,' read the court filing. 'In 2004, Grace R. was only 13 years old and grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Her mother started an online relationship with defendant. 'Defendant flew her and her mother to Santa Cruz for five days. They stayed at the Chaminade hotel. One night defendant, her mother, and G. R. were all on the same bed. G.R.s mother passed out on the bed, and defendant then sexually molested G.R.. ' FBI supervising agent Chris Marceau also testified to some of the depraved acts Brandon had been seen performing on videos as well in his testimony. These included groping a boy, orally copulating a boy and having sex with him while the child was on his back and orally copulating a minor female. The preliminary hearing will continue on Thursday, and all three defendants remains in the Santa Cruz County Jail. Party-goers have been urged to seek medical attention over a potentially deadly bacteria outbreak at Berlin's famous KitKatClub. Authorities in Berlin's Reinickendorf district said anyone who went to the hedonistic club on September 29 should get checked out by a doctor immediately for Neisseria meningitidis - the bacteria that can cause meningitis. Bacteria strains linked to the life-threatening disease are believed to have been found at the venue, which is a landmark among Berlin's nightclubs. KitKatClub (pictured) is notorious for its sex parties in which guests are encouraged to have intercourse wherever they want What is Neisseria meningitidis? The bacteria are spread through saliva and respiratory secretions during coughing, sneezing, kissing, chewing on toys and even through sharing a source of fresh water. Common symptoms include severe headache, high fever, chills, dizziness, neck stiffness and extreme malaise. With a fatality risk approaching 15% within 12 hours of infection, it is crucial to initiate testing as quickly as possible, but not to wait for the results before initiating antibiotic therapy. Persons with a confirmed infection should be hospitalized immediately for treatment with antibiotics. Antibiotics are most commonly given in pill form although they can be injected for particularly serious cases. Advertisement KitKatClub is famous for its wild and raunchy sex parties where visitors engage in lewd behaviour. Guests are allowed to engage in sexual intercourse openly at the venue, which was founded in 1994 by Austrian porn director Simon Thaur. A strict dresscode needs to be respected in order to get into the KitKatClub door, often enforced by the owners themselves, and requiring fetish, latex, leather, kinky, high style, glamour. While Berlin was under a conservative local government in 2001, the club was harassed by the police and was charged with 'invitation to public intercourse,' a crime since before World War Two. Neisseria meningitidis can be spread through kissing and breathing as an airborne bacteria. It is the main cause of bacterial meningitis in children and young adults, causing developmental impairment and death in about 10% of cases. A Chinese TV reporter who was arrested after allegedly slapping a Tory activist during a row over Hong Kong has been highly praised in her home country. The 48-year-old journalist allegedly hit a volunteer at a fringe event about Hong Kong at the ruling Conservative party's conference in Birmingham on Sunday. After the news reached China, the public have voiced an outpouring of support for the reporter for her defending the country's sovereignty. People call her 'heroic', 'brave' and 'excellent' on Twitter-like Weibo. The Chinese journalist (left) allegedly attacked the volunteer (right) at a Tory conference Staff at the conference had to hold back the woman before police arrived at the scene. The 48-year-old journalist was arrested on suspicion of common assault and held overnight The TV reporter, Kong Linlin (), is a London-based correspondent for China's national broadcaster, covering UK current affairs such as the Brexit. Footage, posted by the conference's co-host on Facebook, showed organisers wrestling with Ms Kong as an altercation broke out. She was eventually removed by security and and later arrested by police. A Conservative Party spokeswoman said her conference pass had been stripped. Ms Kong was arrested on suspicion of common assault and released on Monday. Ms Kong's employer, China Central Television Station (CCTV), said Ms Kong was carrying out normal duty at the time and the behaviour of the meeting's organisers was inappropriate, according to a statement on its official account on Twitter-like Weibo on Tuesday. A spokesperson from the Chinese state-run station urged the UK to take actions to protect the rights of its journalists and to prevent such 'ridiculous' incidents from happening again. A CCTV new clip shows Ms Kong, a correspondent, reporting about Brexit to audience in China The controversial incident took place on the eve of China's National Day when patriotism in China becomes heightened. One supporter of Ms Kong, with the moniker 'Miss Bai Hai', wrote under CCTV's Weibo statement: 'For such a good journalist who safeguard the country's unity and maintain the country's reputation resolutely, please do award (her) handsomely.' Another user with the screen name 'Yulong LL' thought Ms Kong's behaviour was 'very reasonable' because 'the order of the meeting was based on mutual respect'. 'Yulong LL' wrote: 'When you don't respect me, why would I assist you to maintain the order of the site. As a Chinese with conscious, when our country's sovereignty and internal affairs are trampled on by other nations, we should stand up indignantly.' The woman said British campaigner Benedict Rogers was a liar and other staff at the meeting were 'traitors'. Mr Rogers (right), Chair of Hong Kong Watch, was speaking at the conference Ms Kong is said to have become enraged after Mr Rogers spoke about Hong Kong (file photo) The fringe event was co-hosted by Hong Kong Watch, a British-based organisation which promotes human rights in Hong Kong, as well as the UK Conservative Party Human Rights Commission. Ms Kong is said to have become enraged after Benedict Rogers, Chair of Hong Kong Watch, made a speech. Mr Rogers, who also serves as Deputy Chair of the Conservative Party Human Rights Commission, said Beijing and London should honour their commitments under the Sino-British Joint Declaration and ensure that Hong Kong's 'one country, two systems' would be upheld. He also said he was 'pro-China' not 'anti-China'. The Chinese journalist then apparently started screaming at Mr Rogers: 'You are a liar. You are anti-China. You want to separate China. And you are not even Chinese. The rest are all traitors!' Hong Kong, a former British colony, was handed back to China in 1997. Leaders of China and Britain stand to attention following the hoisting of the Chinese flags at the handover ceremony minutes after midnight of July 1, 1997 Hong Kong holds a flag-raising ceremony as part of China's National Day celebrations at Golden Bauhinia Square on Monday. The former British colony is an autonomous city in China In the video shared by Hong Kong Watch, a volunteer called Enoch Lieu can be heard telling Ms Kong 'can you please go' and 'if you hit me again I will call the police' while Ms Kong said to him 'you, Hong Kong puppet' and 'shame on you'. The journalist, who was held by another worker at the conference, also repeatedly told Mr Lieu 'leave me alone' before telling him and his colleague 'I am a journalist here', 'I have my right to protest' and 'UK have [sic] democratic [sic]'. The Chinese embassy posted on its website in English on Monday saying her ejection was 'completely unacceptable'. 'In a country that boasts freedom of speech, it is puzzling that the Chinese journalist should encounter obstruction in such a way and even assault at the fringe event when she simply raised a question and expressed her opinions,' it said. 'The organizer of fringe event should apologise to the Chinese journalist,' the embassy added. Asked if the party planned to apologise, a Conservative Party spokeswoman said: 'The individual concerned was removed from the conference centre and has had their pass revoked'. A suspected slavery victim was today rescued from the shed where he may have lived for more than 40 years. The 58-year-old British man was found inside the decrepit green-painted 6ft square shed near Carlisle, Cumbria during a raid this morning. The alleged victim, who is feared to have been held there from the age of 18, appears to have been living for decades in a building with a TV, one chair, a makeshift bed on the floor and an electric heater. But today he was helped to safety by the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA). Police have arrested a 79-year-old on suspicion of holding a 48-year-old as a slave in this Carlisle shed for up 40 years GLAA officers attended a home north of Carlisle to carry out the dawn raid and recover the potential victim. He has been taken away by specialist trauma officers to be medically examined and assessed. A 79-year-old British man has now been arrested on suspicion of modern slavery offences. The operation has been supported by specialist officers from the National Crime Agency, the Cumbria Housing Department who are investigating possible health and safety breaches, and officers from Cumbria Police. The first robot brothel has opened its doors in Russia offering sex with a doll for around 80 an hour. Sex robot brothels have already opened in Germany, Spain, Austria and Italy with plans for one in Houston, Texas. The LumiDolls franchise, which already has establishments in Barcelona in Spain and Turin, Italy, has now set up shop in the Russian capital. Based in the commercial district known as the Moscow International Business Centre (MIBC), the venue hopes to attract stressed city workers and entrepreneurs. One raunchy sex doll can also blink and is bilingual, being able to 'talk dirty' to clients in either English or Chinese LumiDolls also provides other 'realistic dolls' with flexible 'movement of their joints' that 'allow you to fulfil all your fantasies' According to local media, the LumiDolls' 'Madame' in Moscow is called Emma and she comes with two orifices that are temperature-controlled. She is 5ft 4in (165 centimetres) tall, weighs 5.5st (35kg) and sighs with pleasure when she is touched. The sex doll can also blink and is bilingual, being able to 'talk dirty' to clients in either English or Chinese. LumiDolls also provides other 'realistic dolls' with flexible 'movement of their joints' that 'allow you to fulfil all your fantasies'. The 'Madame' in the Moscow sex robot brothel is said to be called Emma and comes with two orifices that are temperature-controlled One hour with one of the 'plastic prostitutes' will cost around 82 (7,000 RUB). The LumiDolls chain has experienced recent problems in Turin and Houston, where local authorities have either blocked the opening or temporarily closed it down. One city councillor, back by religious groups, threatened to film customers entering the brothel and post the footage on social media. The Houston branch is expected to open soon while the company plans on opening another ten sex dens around the world in the near future. According to reports, sex industry experts estimate that people with a fetish for sex dolls are a growing group, and that they expect more dolls to be made available by brothels. One hour of fast love with a busty robot will cost around 82 (7,000 RUB) Evelyn Schwarz, who runs a robot brothel in Dortmund, said that the wives of many brothel visitors are reacting 'with tolerance' to their desires and are often seen 'waiting outside in the car' while their husband is having sex with a doll. At the Ars Electronica Festival in the city of Linz, an interactive silicone sex doll named 'Samantha' became so popular that it broke down because so many visitors groped its breasts and soiled its body. In Germany, a new brothel has now opened that caters exclusively to those who are attracted to plastic sex dolls. The robot brothel in Barcelona had to move location after real-life prostitutes complained the androids were taking their trade. Casey Anthony is open to the idea of having more children, ten years after the death of her daughter Caylee which propelled her to infamy and led to her being labeled the most hated woman in America. According to friends of the 32-year-old who spoke to People on Wednesday, Anthony has softened to the idea of having another baby in recent months. They did not explain what led to her change of heart, but said: 'For a long time she was like "no way." But time has changed that and shes now open to it in a way she hasnt been before.' Casey Anthony is open to having another baby, according to friends, 10 years after the death of her daughter Caylee and seven years after she was acquitted of murdering her. Casey is seen, left, in August in West Palm Beach, Florida In a widely circulated interview last year, she told The Associated Press: 'If I am blessed enough to have another child if Id be dumb enough to bring another kid into this world knowing that thered be a potential that some little snot-nosed kid would then say something mean to my kid I dont think I could live with that.' Anthony lives with Pat McKenna, one of the investigators who worked on her defense team at her 2011 trial, in West Palm Beach, Florida. It is unclear if she is romantically involved with anyone. In her March 2017 interview with the AP, her only one since the trial, she said she was approached by men in bars often but they were scared off once they realized who she was. In 2011, Anthony was sensationally acquitted after a dramatic, highly publicized murder trial. Her daughter Caylee was found dead in December 2008, six months after last being seen alive. Her skeletal remains were found in a trash bag behind the family home near Orlando. Casey lives with Pat McKenna, a private investigator who worked on her case, and is also working for him. Their relationship is not thought to be romantic Casey (seen during her trial) was accused of murdering her daughter to get out of her parental responsibilities. She changed her story throughout the police investigation and accused her father of sexually abusing her in a defense strategy that shocked the nation. She was found not guilty in 2011 In March last year, Casey spoke out for the first time in an interview with the AP (above) where she talked about not being 'dumb enough' to bring 'another kid into this world' It was Casey's mother Cindy who eventually reported the child missing in July after not seeing her for weeks. She told police her daughter first gave explanations for where the child was then changed her story to say she had been kidnapped by a nanny. Casey accused her father George of sexually abusing her and said he moved Caylee's lifeless body after she drowned in the family pool. George and his wife Cindy (pictured at the 2011 trial) no longer speak to their daughter During the trial, the prosecution alleged, after finding traces of duct tape on Caylee's skull and chloroform in her mother's car, that Casey murdered her to get out of having to look after her. The defense said that the child drowned in the family pool and that Casey's father George disposed of the body. They tried to explain Casey's changing story by saying she had a dysfunctional childhood. At times, her lawyers suggested that she had been sexually abused by her own father and that was why she had mental health problems. George has always vehemently denied abusing her. Casey no longer speaks to her parents. A Pennsylvania nursing home has been completely destroyed by a tornado - but all 162 residents miraculously escaped with barely a scratch. The tornado tore the roof off Rolling Fields Elder Care Community in Conneautville, destroying all the bedrooms on one side of the building. Photos show parts of the roof collapsed onto the beds of the residents, who were all safely on the floor in the hallway just mere feet away from the destruction. The EF2 tornado was packing winds up to 115 mph and a path width of 50 yards as it tore through the nursing home around 2.40pm on Tuesday. The Rolling Fields Elder Care Community in Conneautville, Pennsylvania has been completely destroyed after a tornado ripped through it Tuesday The tornado tore the roof off the nursing home (pictured), destroying all the bedrooms on one side of the building Just before the twister hit, staff began receiving warning alerts on their phones. They immediately began evacuating residents - half of whom aren't mobile - into the hallway. 'If it wouldn't have been for the quick response of the staff...this could have been a completely different story,' administrator Tanya Bish told Fox 8. 'We could have had multiple tragedies.' Photos show parts of the roof collapsed onto the beds of the residents, who were all on the floor in the hallway just mere feet away from the destruction The EF2 tornado was packing winds up to 115 mph and a path width of 50 yards as it tore through the nursing home around 2.40pm on Tuesday Bish said the storm also happened to roll in at the same time the staff changes shifts, meaning there were double the people on duty to help evacuate the residents. While there were no serious injuries, two residents were taken to the hospital as a precaution for 'unrelated concerns'. The American Red Cross also opened a reception center for the community's residents at Conneaut Valley Middle School, where they were allowed to stay until new housing was arranged. By Wednesday morning all residents had either left with family members or been taken to different nursing homes in the area. Just before the twister hit, staff began receiving warning alerts on their phone and immediately began evacuating residents The storm also happened to roll in at the same time the staff changes shifts, meaning there were double the people on duty to help evacuate the residents 'We had people show up with trailers, buses within two hours,' said Bish. 'I can't even begin to thank everyone, it was unbelievable.' It remains unclear when they'll be able to return to Rolling Fields. 'At this point our main priority is the elders (residents), care-partners (employees) and all others on site,' spokeswoman Lisa Haglund said in a statement. Chief Randy Boyle of Hayfield Township Volunteer Fire Department said the storm downed trees and limbs and damaged roofs of several buildings, but there were no reports of injuries. While there were no serious injuries, two residents were taken to the hospital as a precaution for 'unrelated concerns' It remains unclear when the residents will be able to return to their home at Rolling Fields David Peterman, 67, said the storm uprooted 10 large trees on his property. 'I saw the twister coming and I could see the debris flying in a circle,' he told the Erie Times-News. 'I went in the house and told my wife to get down into the cellar. She got about halfway down the steps and the lights went out.' 'It was only a couple of minutes and it came right through our property.' A Texas woman is suing the social media giant Facebook, saying it was complicit in the circumstances that led to her being sex trafficked as a child. The unidentified woman is seeking monetary damages in excess of $10,000, arguing the company's 'morally bankrupt culture' left her vulnerable to predators and was a factor in her being groomed online by a pimp who drew her into sex trafficking. The civil lawsuit filed Monday in Harris County court accuses Facebook of providing 'an unrestricted platform' that allows criminals to 'stalk, exploit, recruit, groom and extort children into the sex trade.' Traffic flies by the entrance sign to Facebook headquarters in Menlo Park, California. The company is being sued for $10,000 in damages by a victim of child sex trafficking who says her ordeal began on the social media website Attorney Annie McAdams said: 'For over a decade Facebook has been providing predators unrestricted platform to prey on victims. 'Profiting from connecting people requires you to protect those with whom you connect.' In 2014 the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children attributed the 836% increase in suspected child sex trafficking in the four years since 2010 to 'increased use of the internet to sell children for sex'. The lawsuit cites the statistic as evidence that social media platforms need to be held accountable. The anonymous trafficking victim, who is from Houston, said the nightmare began when a friend of a Facebook friend contacted her on the site in 2012, when she was just 16. The stranger manipulated the victim, complimenting her looks and offering to launch her modeling career. He told the victim, who had confided in him about a recent argument with her mother, that she would make enough money to rent her own apartment. He said he would pick her up and console her, the complaint says, following which the recruiter photographed her and posted the images online. The lawsuit cites a National Center for Missing and Exploited Children statistic which attributes the 836% increase in suspected child sex trafficking between 2010-14 to 'increased use of the internet' The victim was then raped, beaten and forced into sex trafficking. She was made to perform sex acts at America's Inn in the 8200 block of Southwest Freeway. Annie McAdams' Houston-based firm seeks to take businesses to task for their part, however passive, in the sex trafficking trade. This may include silently permitting criminals to use the platform in their hunt for victims, as well as facilitating or even promoting the trade. McAdams said she will file more lawsuits across the whole of America in the coming weeks, but wanted the first case to be local. The city of Houston, she said, has been profoundly affected by human trafficking. The suit also targets the company Backpage, an online advertising site. Backpage was shut down after an FBI raid on allegations it was promoting prostitution, and a Houston hotel where sexual encounters with customers allegedly occurred. Levi Stewart, 17, has been charged with three felony counts of rape for forced oral sex and forced digital penetration An Indiana high school student accused of forcing his female classmates to perform sex acts on him will be tried as an adult. Levi Stewart, 17, has been charged with three felony counts of rape for forced oral sex and forced digital penetration. He is accused of 'threatening, intimidating and harassing young female students in his classes to engage in sexual activity with him,' Fox 59 reports. The allegations came to light after the school received an anonymous tip off on August 20 that a male student was going to fight Stewart because he was sick of him intimidating and forcing teenager girls into a sexual relationship with him, according the affidavit. Police interviewed Stewart's alleged victims who said that they all claimed they were forced to perform sexual acts at the nearby Hummel Park in Plainfield, Indiana. The incidents stretched back over the past year or year and a half, according to the affidavit. One of girls said that she had been in the park with Stewart when he forced his hands down her pants. When she told him to stop, he told her to 'loosen up', she told the police. Another girl said that Stewart had been pestering her to perform oral sex on him. When she said no, he had 'grabbed her and kissed her', unbuttoned her pants and then pushed her down to his lap, telling her: 'Do it. You're already down there,' court documents say. Stewart and his victims attended Plainfield High School (pictured) She claims Stewart then forced her to perform oral sex on him. All the victims accused the 17-year-old was 'emotionally aggressive' and told them if they didn't perform the sex acts they didn't love him. Stewart and his victims attended Plainfield High School. Plainfield Schools issued this statement saying they were working with police during their investigation but declined to give any further details, citing students' privacy concerns. Two men have been arrested after a high speed chase through quiet suburban streets came to a crashing halt when the car slammed into a fence. South Australian Police pursued the two men through Plympton in Adelaide on Wednesday after a Highway Patrol car attempted to pull the Holden Commodore over. Police allege the driver sped off instead of stopping his vehicle, sparking a high speed chase, 9 News reported. Scroll down for video Two men have been arrested after a high speed chase through quiet suburban streets in Adelaide came to a crashing halt when the car slammed into a fence. CCTV caught the final moments of the chase including when the Holden smashed into a metal fence (pictured) CCTV footage shows the final moments of the chase as the grey car is seen speeding through a quiet back street before losing control and veering into a fence. Within moments more than a dozen officers were on the scene and two men were arrested. A witness to the chase, Tony Baker, told 9 News it was a 'crazy' scene to behold. Within moments more than a dozen officers were on the scene and two men were arrested (pictured) 'The amount of cops was crazy, I think there were two blokes in the car and about six cop cars showed up,' he said. 'I thought it happened right out the front, thats how loud it was.' The 35-year-old male driver was charged with a host of offences including driving while unlicensed and engaging in a police pursuit. His 39-year-old passenger was charged with hindering police and carrying an offensive weapon when police found a knife in the car after detaining both men. Both men were granted bail and will appear in court at a date yet to be determined. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell made it clear Wednesday that the protestors chasing lawmakers through the hallways and out of Washington D.C. restaurants will not intimidate senators and vowed they 'will vote this week' on Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. McConnell took to the Senate floor Wednesday morning to rail against the delays in confirming Kavanaugh, including protestors who have confronted senators, and slamming Democrats, who he claims are moving the goalposts on President Donald Trump's nominee. 'I want to make it clear to these people who are chasing my members down the hall here, or harassing them at the airport or going to their homes, we will not be intimidated by these people,' he said. More uniformed officers have been visible in the Senate amid mounting protests, and senators have been escorted by uniformed officers. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said lawmakers would not be intimidated by protestors against Brett Kavanaugh Police presence: Security has been tightened in the Senate because of the presence of protesters with uniformed officers seen guarding Lisa Collins (left) and Mitch McConnell (right) Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer challenged McConnell to 'man up' and call a vote 'There's no chance in the world they're gonna scare us out of doing our duty. I don't care how many members they chase, how many people they harass here in the halls. I want to make one thing perfectly clear, we will not be intimidated by these people,' McConnell said. Protestors have filled the hallways of the Senate office buildings as Kavanaugh's confirmation has struggled toward the finish line amid questions about his drinking habits and allegations of sexual assault. Republican Senators Jeff Flake, Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, Ted Cruz, and Lindsey Graham are among those who have been target by victims of sexual assault who are protesting Kavanaugh's confirmation. On Friday, a moment when two female protestors trapped Flake in an elevator and berated him after he announced he was voting to confirm Kavanugh went viral and ultimately resulted in Flake calling for a delay in the confirmation vote in order for the FBI to investigate the allegations against Kavanaugh. One of the women shouted to Flake, through tears: 'Don't look away from me! Look at me and tell me that it doesn't matter what happens to me.' This is the dramatic moment that two female protesters, and alleged rape victims, trapped Sen. Jeff Flake in an elevator Demonstrators surrounded Ted Cruz and his wife Heidi in Fiola, an Italian restaurant, shouting 'We believe survivors', which prompted them to leave on Monday night Cruz was also confronted in an elevator in the Senate and chased out of Washington D.C. restaurant last week. Demonstrators ambushed Cruz and his wife at Fiola, an Italian restaurant near the White House, and chanted: 'We believe survivors! We believe survivors!' Protestors also gathered outside the offices of multiple senators to urge them to listen to the stories of sexual assault survivors. Actress Alyssa Milano was among those leading the protests and was seen crying at some of the stories. McConnell claimed the mass protests were 'all part of the organized effort to delay, obstruct and intimidate.' Kavanaugh's confirmation has been in limbo since an FBI investigation was ordered on Friday to look into the multiple sexual assault allegations against him. Christine Blasey Ford has accused Kavanaugh of pinning her to a bed, trying to rip off her clothes and covering her mouth when she screamed while they two of them were teenagers at a party in the 1980s. Debra Ramirez claims Kavanaugh exposed himself to her during a dorm party at Yale University, thrust his penis in her face and forced her to touch it when she pushed him away. Julie Swetnick claims Kavanaugh and his Georgetown Prep pal Mark Judge were part of a group of guys who drugged and gang raped women. Kavanaugh has denied all allegations. Actress Alyssa Milano led protesters in the Senate on Wednesday against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh Activists hold signs up outside the office of Maine Senator Susan M. Collins in support of Kavanaugh's chief accuser Christine Blasey Ford The FBI had been given a deadline of Friday to end its new background investigation although there is speculation agents could be done as soon as Wednesday. But on Wednesday Ford's attorneys revealed she and witnesses she has offered have not been spoken to by the FBI. Agents have spoken to at least six people involved in the allegations. One of those is Mark Judge, the high school friend of Kavanaugh who was accused of being in the room when the nominee allegedly tried to rape Ford, while the other is Debbie Ramirez, the second accuser. They have also spoken to Patrick 'P.J.' Smyth and Leland Keyser, both of whom Ford said were present, and to Tim Gaudette, whose home Kavanaugh's calendars showed he partied at on July 1, 1982, under the term 'skis'. And they have spoken to 'Squi' or 'Squee', real name Chris Garrett, who Ford said she dated and who Kavanaugh's calendar put at the July 1 party. Questioned: Tim Gaudette, whose house was where a party similar to the one described by Christine Blasey Ford took place, has been interviewed by the FBI. So has Leland Keyser, Ford's longtime friend, and P.J. Smyth, a PWC executive who was named as being at the party by Ford and is named as partying at 'Tobin's' in Kavanaugh's calendars The FBI has interviewed Mark Judge and completed its questioning Tuesday, his attorney said McConnell has been expressing his frustration all week with the delays in getting Kavanaugh on the high court. Republicans originally wanted the conservative Kavanaugh - who was nominated to place retiring swing-vote Justice Anthony Kennedy - on the court by the time it began its new session on October 1. On Wednesday, after railing against the protestors, McConnell then turned his fury toward Democrats, repeating his accusation that they are trying to move the goalposts on confirming Kavanaugh. 'Democrats may be trying to move the goal posts every five minutes, but their goal has not moved an inch. They will not be satisfied unless they have brought down Judge Kavanaugh's nomination,' McConnell said. 'If my friends across the aisle had their way the goalposts would move the vote to another time zone,' he noted. He also dismissed Democrats' concerns about Kavanaugh's judicial temperament after his angry testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee last Thursday. Democrats are saying he's disqualified because he got 'a little testy,' McConnell said, 'after they dragged him through the mud.' 'I don't want to meet he man or woman who wouldn't be frustrated,' he added. 'Democrats have made it clear they will never ever be satisfied. Not ever,' he raged. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT IN BRETT KAVANAUGH'S CONFIRMATION The Senate is currently engaged in an unlimited period of debate on Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, meaning they have the option to talk about him on the Senate floor should they so choose. When Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is ready to call for a confirmation vote, he must make a motion to end the debate, a process known as cloture. Senate rules require an intervening day to pass between when a GOP leader files for cloture and when the Senate votes on the cloture motion. So if McConnell were to file for cloture on Wednesday evening, the cloture vote would 'ripen' to allow this to happen on Friday. If he waits until Thursday morning to file for cloture, then that vote would take place Saturday. For cloture to be invoked for the nomination, 51 votes are required, under the 'nuclear option' rules change pushed through by Senate Republicans before the confirmation of Justice Neil Gorsuch during Trump's first year as president. Once the cloture is invoked, that starts the clock on the final 30 hours of debate on Kavanaugh. Senators can only vote sooner if they are able to reach unanimous agreement to do so. Once those 30 hours are up, Senators will vote on whether or not to confirm Kavanaugh. It takes a simple majority of 51 senators to confirm a nominee. But since Republicans only have a 51 seat majority, they can afford to lose only one senator if all Democrats vote no on Kavanaugh. Should it be a 50-50 vote, Vice President Mike Pence would break the tie to confirm Kavanaugh. Advertisement McConnell then repeated his vow to hold a vote on Kavanaugh this week. 'The Senate will vote on this nomination this week,' he said and repeated his message in case it wasn't clear: 'The Senate will vote on this nomination this week.' McConnell's double down on Trump's Supreme Court nominee came amid uncertainty about the timing of the FBI investigation into sexual assault allegations against Kavanaugh, which he has denied. It remains unclear when the bureau will finish its probe and when senators will see the results. He called Kavanaugh one of 'the most impressive' nominees in history, citing his 'sterling academic credentials,' his work on the bench and his 'proven commitment' to fairness. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer then went onto the floor and challenged McConnell to 'man up,' call a vote and stop blaming a delay on Democrats that was actually caused by GOP senators. 'Be a man - man up and say it's your decision and not ours,' Schumer said. (left to right) Christine Ford, Deborah Ramirez and Julie Swetnick have all accused Judge Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct; he has flatly denied all the charges Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation is in limbo As Senate leader, McConnell controls the Senate floor schedule and when votes are called. He delayed a Kavanaugh vote by a week after three key Republican senators - Jeff Flake, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski - said they wanted an FBI investigation into the sexual assault allegations. Schumer claimed McConnell was being hypocritical to blame Democrats on a delay when he was he one that held up the confirmation on Merrick Garland, President Barack Obama's Supreme Court nominee who never got a vote in the Senate. 'It is galling, appalling to hear day after day the Majority Leader get on his high horse about delay, when he almost invented the word when it comes to judicial nominations,' Schumer said. 'To say Democrats are causing delay are coming from the same man who delayed the nomination of Supreme Court justice Merrick Garland for over 300 days without a shrug of his shoulders? Give me a break,' he noted. Republican Senators Jeff Flake, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski are undecided votes Democratic Senators Heidi Heitkamp and Joe Manchin are also undecided votes Schumer pointed out McConnell as 'the sole power' to determine when Kavanaugh is voted on and noted he was 'so tempted to use the L word but he's my friend.' He also called on McConnell to hold an all-senators briefing with the FBI agents who investigated Kavanaugh and repeated Democrats' call to make the findings public. 'This is not the usual practice but it's been done in the past,' Schumer noted of releasing the report. McConnell can call for a vote at anytime and will soon need to start the complicated procedural process required to bring Kavanaugh to a final vote this week. He must first make a motion to end the debate on Kavanaugh, a process known as cloture. But Senate rules require an intervening day to pass between when a GOP leader files for cloture and when the Senate votes on the cloture motion. In order to pass, cloture requires 51 votes. If it passes, that starts the clock on the final 30 hours of debate on Kavanaugh. Once those 30 hours are up, Senators will vote on whether or not to confirm him. It takes a simple majority of 51 senators to confirm. But Republicans only have 51 seats, meaning the party can only lose one senator if all Democrats vote no on Kavanaugh (letting Vice President Mike Pence be the tie breaking vote). And it's uncertain McConnell has the 50 senators he needs. Flake, Collins and Murkowski have been mum on their final vote, saying they want to see the outcome of the FBI investigation. Only two Democratic senators - Heidi Heitkamp and Joe Manchin - are undecided. All other Democrats have said they will vote no. A Connecticut mayor has nixed the renaming of a street honoring the father of Paul Manafort. New Britain Republican Erin Stewart vetoed the proposal, accusing local Democrats of trying to 'score cheap political points' and attempting to 'invent or rewrite history.' The city council's majority leader, Carlo Carlozzi, tells the Hartford Courant that Democrats will try to override Stewart's veto next month. He says there's concern the street name 'brings embarrassment to the city.' The street name was named after New Britain's former three-term mayor Paul Manafort Senior Controversy has plagued the street named after Paul Manafort Senior, pictured left as a young man, since his namesake son, right, was convicted 'It's disappointing this mayor chooses politics by defending a mayor who had a corrupt administration,' Carlozzi said. New Britain Mayor, Republican Erin Stewart vetoed the proposal, accusing local Democrats of trying to 'score cheap political points' and attempting to 'invent or rewrite history' Democrats hope to rename it after an African-American 19th century educator and diplomat, Ebenezer D.C. Bassett, and diplomat. Stewart recently changed the name from Paul Manafort Drive to Paul Manafort Sr. Drive to clarify it refers to the three-term mayor and not his son, the former chairman of Donald Trump's presidential campaign who has been convicted of financial crimes. It was named Paul Manafort Drive in 1994 to honor a former mayor and business leader, Paul Manafort Senior. 'This single issue has been the sole focus of the council majority for several months and after all that time our city is no better off,' Stewart wrote. 'The ugly truth is that elected officials saw an opportunity to feed into the national media stories.' Last year she refused to change the street name, emphasizing that it was meant to honor the elder Manafort but after his son was indicted there was concern that some visitors might think the the street was named after the younger Manafort. Paul Manafort, right, is pictured with his father and former three-term mayor Paul Manafort Sr. After the son was convicted this summer, Stewart had the public works department quietly change the name to Paul Manafort Sr. Drive. The councils Democratic majority leader says hell try to override the veto. Democrats currently hold nine seats on the 15-seat council. Theyll need ten votes for a veto override. A student pilot who broke into a Florida airport and got into the cockpit of a vacant passenger plane will be deported after pleading guilty. Nishal Sankat, 22, who was studying in Florida on a visa but has joint Trinidadian-Canadian citizenship, will be deported to Trinidad as part of his plea deal. It comes after FBI invetigators who spoke with Sankat said he intended to 'harm himself' using the jet with 'no regard' for the safety of others, but did not link the plot to terrorism. Nishal Sankat, 22, will be deported to his native country of Trinidad after he admitted breaking into a Florida airport and boarding an empty passenger jet Sankat admitted he intended to harm himself when he tried to steal a plane on September 20 FBI agent David Hacker (second left) told the judge via video that Sankat was a risk to the public and that he 'had no regard' for others Sankat was denied a public defender because he receives a stipend of $5,000 per month Sankat will be put on Trinidad's no-fly list and pay the Melbourne Airport Police Department $909.45 to cover investigation costs, ABC reported. He was arrested on September 20 after a brief chase with airport authorities, and appeared in court for the first time the following day. During that appearance, FBI agent David Hacker agent told the judge: 'He advised us that he intended to harm himself and in that process had no regard for the eventuality of harming others.' Hacker also confirmed during the hearing that Sankat was a risk to the public. The Joint Terrorism Task Force said stealing the plane was a part of that plan, according to a News 6 video. Before being called to speak, Sankat appeared to be falling asleep. When he stood to answer questions a judge told the defendant he was not allowed to go back to the airport. During the appearance Friday he took 30 minutes to complete paperwork to represented by a public defender but was told he would not qualify due to the fact he gets a stipend of $5,000 per month. Sankat - next due in court October 18 - said he was not able to contact his family to let them know he was being held in custody. 'I tried calling and they're not there,' he told the judge. However his father Professor Clement Sankat, who used to be a University of the West Indies principal, issued a statement on Thursday saying that the family was providing support to his son. Sankat told the judge on Friday that he was unable to contact his parents to let them know he was being held in custody Sankat faces charges of criminal attempt to steal an aircraft, as well as a visa violation and trespassing. He is being held at the Brevard County Jail The student pilot is originally from Trinidad but is believed to have been living in Florida Sankat's shocked school friends think the story is out of character for him Technology student Sankat, was unarmed when he was tackled by airport staff at 1.25am on Thursday. Melbourne Police Chief David Gillespie said Thursday he has no criminal record and no links to terrorist networks. Airport spokesperson Lori Booker previously said the Joint Terrorism Task Force was investigating and trying to determine a motive in the case. 'Were all pretty puzzled by the motivation,' Booker said Thursday. 'We dont have those answers right now.' Gillespie previously said, reports Florida Today: 'There were no explosive devices and no weapons that were confiscated from his residence.' Booker said Sankat entered the US from Canada, where he holds dual citizenship with Trinidad, and has a Florida driving license. Nishal Sankat's Facebook pictures and posts show he had a keen interest in aviation and weaponry Sankat's Facebook page is heavily aircraft-themed and he had posted about the 2014 disappearance of Malaysian Airlines flight MH370 Early Thursday morning he parked his car curbside, jumped a fence and boarded the vacant passenger plane. The Airbus 321 aircraft was based at maintenance facility and wasn't scheduled to fly when the incident happened. An avionics technician was in the plane's galley when he saw a shadow, Booker said. 'He turned around and said, 'Who are you? Show me your badge,' she told news outlets. The employee grabbed Sankat and with help from another technician, got him off the plane. The student boarded the Airlines Airbus A321 plane (pictured) and caused an airport lockdown Booker said that while one technician held the man down, the other called Orlando Melbourne airport police. Sankat broke free and ran along the airfield before police took him into custody about two minutes later. The student pilot now also faces a visa violation and criminal trespassing charges. Booker described as 'heroic' the four staff who had seen the student board the plane and those who approached him on-board. The car left abandoned by the man was searched by robots before being towed away. Sankat was a part-time student at the Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, where he studied aviation management and had completed some flight training, school spokesman Adam Lowenstein said. 'The university is cooperating with authorities, he said. Sankat's Facebook shows he was fascinated by aviation and weaponry and was an avid video gamer with a particular interest in war games. He had posted updates online pondering the 2014 disappearance of Malaysian Airlines flight MH370 and voiced concerns about Russia's invasion of Crimea. Airport spokesman Lori Booker (pictured) told news outlets the student pilot also faces a visa violation and criminal trespassing charges Sankat also penned a tribute to Mikhail Kalashnikov, who created the AK47, upon his death in 2013. He wrote: 'I am deeply saddened by this event, R.I.P Mikhail Kalashnikov, A great leader and innovator, if it wasn't for you we wouldn't have these modern, yet efficient assault rifles that are available to both civilian and military use. 'One of my lifelong heroes is no longer with us. I will remember you! R.I.P' However friends said the incident was out of character for Sankat. 'Nishal is not that type of person,' Trinidad and Tobago classmate Aaron Ambrose told News 6. 'He's like a comical kid, but he was always really smart because he was, like, obsessed with planes.' A sticker on the student's car, and a number of social media posts, indicated he lived in the area at least recently. The airport, which handles about 500,000 passengers a year, was evacuated and authorities conducted a security sweep of the entire airport, which reopened about five hours later, according to Booker. Police quickly arrived at the scene and took the man to Brevard County Jail Two flights were delayed and the airport was closed for five hours because of the incident. Melbourne resident Manan Karia told Florida Today that he approached the airport about 5am on NASA Boulevard to try to catch a 6am Delta flight to Austin, Texas. 'I drove by Keiser and Sears and saw a bunch of cars in both parking lots, which I thought was weird,' Karia said. 'I get to the airport and there is a line about five cars deep, and a police officer has the entrance blocked with his car and lights are flashing. You can see more police cars with lights flashing around the airport.' Melbourne is 70 miles (112 kilometers) southeast of Orlando. Orlando-Melbourne is a popular airport for overhaul and maintenance, Booker said, and it's not unusual to have as many as eight jets parked on the tarmac outside the repair center. Sankat is being held at the Brevard County Jail. According to the famous children's story, bears sleep in beds and eat porridge. But three cubs decided to mix things up a bit on Saturday night, and sought shelter in a Nevada dumpster. Unfortunately, their experiment did not work, and the bears found it harder to escape than Goldilocks did. Firefighters in Truckee Meadows found an 'agitated' mama bear watching over the bin, which had been tipped over during the night, and decided to investigate. Three bear cubs were trapped inside a dumpster in Nevada on Saturday night, but were freed by a team of EMTs on Sunday morning. The cubs were seen slowly crawling out and stumbling before taking off into the woods Video shows firefighter and paramedic Ed Martin using a pole to prop open the lid to the bin, while engineer Patrick Walsh subdued the mother. Despite the danger, Martin does not appear concerned at all, and even pauses halfway through the rescue to pose for a picture with his thumbs up. When the bears make it out, they appear dazed, and all of them stumble before finally taking off into the woods. The mother stayed back, but a picture shared to the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District showed she was not happy about it. Nobody was injured in the rescue, and all three bears have been reunited with their mom. As the cubs waited to be freed from the dumpster, their mom stood nearby keeping watch A sheep has been spotted standing on top of a truck as the vehicle stopped at the side of a motorway. The adventurous animal was filmed by a passing motorist after the HGV driver pulled onto the hard shoulder. Footage of the sheep was captured in New Zealand and showed the farmyard beast peering over the edge of the lorry as traffic passes by the busy road. The lorry had its hazard warning lights flashing as it parked up in Auckland. The sheep was seen standing on top of the lorry as the vehicle was parked at the side of a motorway on Auckland New Zealand As a pedestrian walked by he looked up at the lost sheep with confusion. Ada Rangiwai was passing in her car when she saw the sheep on top of a truck on the city's southern motorway at around 5pm on Sunday. She posted the video on Facebook that shows the driver pulled over onto the side of the motorway as the car Rangiwai was travelling in approached the scene. She told Newshub: 'We saw the sheep on top of the roof and I'm like, "oh my god, I have to record this, this is gold". 'I've got no idea how it got there. We were just driving and saw it. Only in bloody New Zealand. It is not known how the sheep got on the roof of the truck but it is being investigated by the New Zealand authorities and animal welfare charities Ewe've done it now: A confused pedestrian looked up at the sheep as it stood on top of the HGV on Sunday 'I don't understand how the sheep got on the roof. It was surfing. There must have been a hole in the roof and it climbed on its mates.' It is not known how or why the sheep was on the roof of the truck but the incident is being investigated by the SPCA (Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and the Ministry for Primary Industries. Peter Hyde, a spokesman for the MPI told Stuff: 'This is a highly unusual incident and not representative of how sheep are transported in New Zealand. 'Only in bloody New Zealand': The surfing sheep was filmed by a passing motorist 'Both [MPI and SPCA] have concerns as the sheep could have fallen seriously injuring itself.' The truck was branded as a a livestock transport company called Heikell Transport, so there could have been more sheep inside the truck. A Heikell Transport spokesman said the company was yet to 'catch up' with the driver because he was away on Monday. Teaching is not usually thought of as a dangerous profession, but for a brave few staff members at a remote school in the Philippines, their morning commute resembles an extreme sport. These teachers have to make it down white water rapids just to reach their classes on time, wading through 14 stretches of water before the arrive at the school for indigenous youngsters in Libacao in the Aklan region of the Philippines. When the rivers are flowing dangerously fast after heavy downpours, they need to don waterproof suits and put their paperwork in plastic zip bags to keep dry. Scroll down for video This is one one of 14 river crossings the teachers have to make to reach the school in Libacao, a remote part of the Philippines Often they can wade through the water but when the rivers are flowing dangerously fast they don waterproof suits and put their paperwork in plastic zip bags to keep dry Footage taken on September 19 shows the teachers climbing into the river to be carried downstream and then swimming to the bank on the opposite side. Teacher Raquel Florentino said that the river in the video is merely the fifth crossing -they had to paddle through another nine before reaching the school. She said: 'Aklan river has very strong currents even on a normal day. One teacher said they need guides to avoid accidents, and always have bruises or chipped nails when they arrive at school The total journey takes them about three hours each day, as they first have to ride motorbikes to the foot of a mountain 'We really need guides to avoid accidents. We always have bruises. Our nails always get chipped off. 'The first time I went here, my feet were so sore. But all I can do was sleep it off while crying because we still have classes the next day. 'Time is important to these kids who can't regularly go to school.' In what is probably the world's most dangerous commute, the teachers trek across rivers and mountain terrain to teach indigenous pupils in the Philippines Raquel said she gets the bus near her home which takes her to the nearest town. From there, she and the other teachers will ride motorbikes which to the foot of the mountain where they will start their trek. They then cross a total of 14 rivers, which are usually calm enough to paddle through but in adverse conditions they have to float down and hope for the best. The total journey takes them about three hours each day. The teachers say they just don't want to be taken for granted, and want to raise awareness for what they go through to teach Raquel added: 'This is the fifth station of our cross on our way to our school and one of the 14 stations that we need to cross. This is how we do it when the current is not manageable. 'We show this simply because we want the educational system to know that there is more to education than papers and tests. 'And there is more to a teacher's life than accomplishing targets. 'Furthermore, we also aim to raise awareness how hard and hazardous it is on our part to reach school, so we should not be taken for granted.' These photos show the moment police officers arrested a man after a razor blade attack outside an east London Tube station. The officers can be seen wrestling the suspect, in his 30s, to the ground outside Bethnal Green station on Wednesday afternoon. The arrest was made while the victim was being loaded into an ambulance before being rushed to hospital. The alleged attacker has been arrested on suspicion of GBH. The suspect, a man in his 30s, was wrestled to the ground and arrested by officers following the razor blade attack in broad daylight outside Bethnal Green station in east London The sickening attack took place in broad daylight on a busy main road outside Bethnal Green station. Police believe the victim was targeted using a razor blade. Emergency services were called to the scene at 1.34pm this afternoon, where the victim was found with 'slash injuries'. As police struggled with and arrested the suspect, the victim could be seen being loaded into an ambulance before being rushed to hospital He was treated by emergency services on Bethnal Green Road and has since been taken to hospital. The victim has been taken to hospital. Police are waiting for an update on his condition. The area surrounding the crime scene has been cordoned off by officers as they sweep the area for clues. Forensic officers could be seen also hunting for evidence. In a statement, a Scotland Yard spokesman said: 'A man, aged in his 30s, was arrested on suspicion of GBH and taken to a nearby police station where he remains in custody.' The site was cordoned off and forensic officers later arrived and could be seen combing the site for evidence The sickening attack took place in broad daylight on a busy main road outside Bethnal Green station on Wednesday afternoon Riot squads were called to disperse violent teenagers after train passengers were terrorised by a group of up to 100 African-Australian youths. The terrified commuters claimed the youths held train doors open and were fighting and screaming abuse in Melbourne's Lynbrook railway station. Police were called to a nearby park at around 7.30pm after reports of an assault, The Herald Sun reported. Riot squads were called to a Melbourne park after train passengers were terrorised by a group of up to 100 African-Australian youths (pictured) A Victoria Police spokeswoman said police found the group of youths in a reserve next to Melbourne's Lynbrook railway station 'On arrival they found a large gathering of youths in a reserve next to the Lynbrook railway station,' a Victoria Police spokeswoman said. 'The youths were asked to move on with the majority catching trains at the nearby station. The Victoria police spokeswoman added that no offences were reported and no victims came forward. Transit police and Protective Service Officers monitored the youths' movements for the rest of the night amid fears of violence. At least 25 riot squad officers were seen near the railway station and the reserve where the youths were loitering. At least 25 riot squads were seen near the railway station and the reserve where the youths were loitering (pictured) 'There were at least a hundred, probably more of them, anywhere from 16-20 years of age, they were young and of Sudanese appearance,' a witness told the Herald Sun. 'Was organised by kids for hours cos theyve all been hiding in trees and stuff around the station,' one Facebook user said. 'It takes a lot to shock me, but I was lost for words. Train couldnt leave as it couldnt close its doors and poor driver could only toot his horn'. Poachers poisoned five lions and brutally mutilated one at a South African predator park this week. The horrific incident occurred on Monday night at Akwaaba Predator Park near Rustenburg, some 80 miles west of Johannesburg in the northeast of the country. The poachers broke into the park and had begun to mutilate a male lion called Mufasa, named after the famous Disney character, when they they were disturbed by staff and fled the scene. Images show the remains of Mufasa, lying in his own blood, and the other four lions which the poachers had not yet mutilated. It is believed Mufasa's body parts will be used for black magic rituals or sold to a trophy collector. Heartbreaking: Mufasa the lion was poisoned along with four others, and later mutilated, after poachers broke into Akwaaba Predator Park near Rustenburg, South Africa 'It's heartbreaking,' said park manager, Bronwyn Moss. 'All the lions were hand reared from when they were cubs so it's like losing five children. 'They were close to our hearts. My only hope is that the lions were already dead by the time the poachers started chopping off parts.' After breaching the park's security, poachers poisoned the lions with a fast acting drug that is still being identified. They then hacked off the front paws of one and part of its face before being disturbed and fleeing. The carnage was discovered at around 11.30pm by patrolling security guards who contacted the farm manager. ' Brutal: Mufasa is thought to have been mutilated by the poachers who were looking to use the lion's bodyparts in black magic rituals Murdered: Two of the other lions who were killed using an unknown fast acting drug When he arrived he discovered the dead lions,' explained Ms Moss. 'He saw a lot of blood in the one enclosure and found that the one lion's two front feet and face were chopped off. 'We suspect that the lions were all poisoned at the same time and that the poachers were disturbed by the security guards before they could hack parts off the other lions,' said Ms Moss.. Police and wildlife authorities were alerted and an investigation is being conducted. Akwaaba is also offering a reward of 100,000 rand (about 5,550) to any person with information leading to the arrest and conviction of the poachers. 'We are devastated that this could happen on our doorstep and that our babies were killed for nothing. The poachers murdered five and only got parts from one. What an absolute waste of life.' Ms Moss said that they could only speculate at this stage about motive. Help: The predator park has offered f 100,000 rand (about 5,550) to any person with information leading to the arrest and conviction of the poachers Who DID kill Mufasa? Mufasa the lion at Akwaaba Predator Park was named after the character in Disney's The Lion King. The 1994 film was the first Disney film which was an original story - despite drawing heavily from William Shakespeare's Hamlet. It follows Simba, a lion cub who is the son and heir of Mufasa; the leader of the pride and 'King of the Pride Lands'. And just like in Shakespeare's tragedy, it is Simba's uncle, Scar, who kills his father Mufasa. Advertisement 'The poachers could have been after the parts to make traditional medicine or they could have been harvesting them for a trophy collector. We hope to get to the bottom of it soon.' Akwaaba is a 72-hectare game farm which is refuge to a variety of wild animals including big cats that have been abandoned or abused. Because many of the animals have been hand reared from a very young age visiting tourists are allowed to pet them. This comes three months after a similar attack at a park just miles away, where another six lions were killed and mutilated for black magic parts. Two white lions and four brown lions were poisoned and mutilated at the Mystic Monkeys & Feathers Wildlife Park, just north of Pretoria, in July. Poachers hacked the heads and paws off four fully grown lions and also killed two cubs. The lead lawyer, who once represented El Chapo Guzman and is accused of being the mastermind behind the drug kingpin's 2015 jail escape, has been released from pretrial detention. Oscar Manuel Gomez Nunez was reportedly set free on Saturday after a court determined that the aiding a prison escapee was not considered a major crime. He posted bail and will now fight his court case as a free man, according to various news outlets. Hours before El Chapo escaped from prison in July 2015, he met with his lead lawyer Oscar Manuel Gomez Nunez, who was released from pretrial detention by a federal Mexican judge. El Chapo is pictured here on his recapture Oscar Manuel Gomez Nunez allegedly purchased land near the Mexican jail where El Chapo was held. An underground tunnel led to the pictured site, setting the cartel boss free in 2015 El Chapo used the pictured motorcycle to flee through a tunnel built under a jail in Mexico in 2015. His former lead lawyer Oscar Manuel Gomez Nunez is accused of plotting the escape Gomez Nunez was arrested in October 2015 along with five others after El Chapo's daring July 2015 escape from the Altiplano maximum-security prison located in Almoloya de Juarez, a town in the state of Mexico. The lawyer was ruled a prime suspect after he had met with El Chapo hours before. El Chapo landed back inside the Altiplano facility after he fled the Puente Grande maximum-security facility in January 2001. According to one version of his first escape, El Chapo jumped into large laundry cart while serving the eighth year of a 20-year prison sentence for the 1993 murder of Cardinal Juan Jesus Posadas Ocampo. Another story says two prison officials opened a door and let him walk out. He evaded capture until he was arrested in February 2014. The former leader of the Sinaloa cartel is now locked inside an isolated New York jail awaiting his November trial after Mexican authorities extradited him to the United States in January 2017. A jail security camera image of El Chapo standing near the escape area that was secretly built underneath his cell before he escaped in July 2015 A hole was created inside El Chapo's jail cell shower stall so that he could climb down a ladder and flee through an underground tunnel An escape hatch was built on the property that former El Chapo lead lawyer Oscar Manuel Gomez Nunez is accused of purchasing prior to the drug kingpin's prison escape in 2015 Mexican prosecutors asserted that Gomez Nunez met regularly with El Chapo inside Mexico's most secure prison, not to figure out a way to clear his name from all of the charges that the prosecution had piled on him, but to devise his second prison escape. At the time of Gomez Nunez's arrest, then Mexican attorney general Arely Gomez claimed El Chapo's lawyer was the brains behind the perfectly executed project that included the purchase of land in the vicinity of the jail. The attorney general also charged that Gomez Nunez crafted the final plans of an underground tunnel, which took 40 weeks to be constructed and had a cost of $8 million pesos [$420,000]. The clandestine escape route led directly to the cell where El Chapo was being held. A large hole was created under the shower area, which El Chapo was able to climb down through a ladder and then hop on a motorcycle for a mile-long ride that led him to the property that Gomez Nunez had been ordered to puchase. A Cessna jet would then whisk away El Chapo, who from 2009 to 2011 was recognized by Forbes as one of the most powerful people in the world.. In the early hours of January 8, 2016, El Chapo was finally apprehended in Los Mochis during a raid called Operation Black Swan, and jailed once again at the Altiplano facility. A flight attendant has been refused entry to Australia after being caught trying to smuggle 10 cartons of cigarettes through Perth Airport. The Indonesian woman was caught by Australian Border Force officers as she arrived on a flight from Denpasar on Tuesday night. Upon their arrival, the cabin crew were ushered by ABF officers through an examination area, where their baggage was to be x-rayed. An Indonesian flight attendant (pictured) has been refused entry to Australia after being caught trying to smuggle 10 cartons of cigarettes through Perth Airport But before her bag was screened, the 50-year-old woman was seen going into a toilet block where she was caught dumping cartons of cigarettes into a bin. The flight attendant's visa was then cancelled and she was sent back to Indonesia on Wednesday morning. The 10 cartons contained 2000 cigarettes, but the maximum allowance for cigarettes being brought into Australia is 25. The duty evaded was about $1700, Australian Border Force said. "Tobacco smuggling is one of the ABF's operational priorities, whether it be by organised crime syndicates or individual profiteers such as in this case," ABF Commander Rod O'Donnell said. The 10 cartons (pictured) contained 2000 cigarettes, but the maximum allowance for cigarettes being brought into Australia is 25 The bust comes just months after another 47-year-old man was caught trying to smuggle 40 cartons of cigarettes through Perth airport, News Corp reported. As a result of his failed attempt, the man was ordered to pay $35,000 worth of fines and expenses. A senator has demanded answers after it was revealed that an Air Force base has been paying $1,280 each for metal cups used to heat coffee. Chuck Grassley, Senator for Iowa, has requested an explanation from Travis Air Force base in California for what he called a 'reckless spending of taxpayer dollars'. 'This gives me no confidence that the Air Force is taking real steps to reduce wasteful spending practices,' he told Fox News. Senator Chuck Grassley has demanded answers after it was revealed the Air Force is paying $1,280 each for metal coffee cups used to heat up hot drinks during flights The extraordinary price seems to have been revealed by the Air Force itself back in February when it boasted that it was designing a new handle for the cups because the current one breaks easily. Because of a design flaw, the entire cup has to be replaced each time the handle breaks because spare parts cannot be used. In a press release, the Air Force said improving the handle was set to save 'thousands of dollars'. The force then revealed that, in 2018 alone, an order was placed for 25 cups at a cost of $32,000, or $1,280 per cup. According to the Air Force, the cups are necessary to 'allow air crew members to heat liquids on aircraft.' Travis Air Force base (file image) boasted back in February that it is designing a new cup, but Grassley said this does not answer why they were paying such a high price to begin with As a solution to the handle issue, a team known as Phoenix Spark is working on a 3D printed model that is more durable. 'It is laudable that the men and women at Travis Air Force Base took action to curb this wasteful spending,' Grassley said. 'But this does not address the puzzling question of why the Air Force is buying these cups at such a high cost to begin with.' The Air Force and Travis air base did not immediately respond to requests from Fox News seeking comment. The estranged wife of Fox News commentator Jesse Watters is demanding he pay for her legal fees, a year after she filed for divorce. Court records seen by DailyMail.com reveal Noelle Watters, 42, filed a motion on October 1, seeking counsel fees from her estranged husband while the case is pending. The judge presiding over the case is yet to make a decision. Noelle filed for divorce last October, but news of couple's split was not made public until March of this year. Watters, 40, admitted to cheating on his wife with 25-year-old associate producer Emma DiGiovine, who worked on his show Watters' World. Cheated: Noelle Watters, 42, filed a motion seeking counsel fees from estranged husband Jesse Watters, 40, while their divorce is pending Unfaithful: She filed for divorce last October after Watters admitted to having an affair with associate producer Emma DiGiovine (pictured) Watters has his own show, Watters' World and also replaced Eric Bolling on The Five last year The up-and-coming Fox News star, who just landed his own show last year, told his bosses about the affair shortly after Noelle filed for divorce, sources previously said. Noelle, maiden name Inguagiato, met Watters on the job and the two married in 2009. He was working for Bill O'Reilly's show and she worked for the advertising and promotions department and was the host of a web show called iMag Style. She gave birth to their twin daughters in 2011, but never returned from maternity leave. After Watters revealed his affair with DiGiovine, she was transferred to work for The Ingraham Angle, but the pair continued to date, sources said. 'Within 24 hours of Jesse Watters voluntarily reporting to the Chief of Human Resources in November 2017 that he was in a consensual relationship with a woman on his staff, management met with both parties and a decision was made for the woman to be transferred to work on another program on the network where she currently remains,' a Fox News spokeswoman told the Daily News. Court records show Noelle is seeking 'pendente lite counsel fees' Noelle and Watters met on the job and the two married in 2009. She gave birth to their twin daughters in 2011 According to her LinkedIn profile, DiGiovine became Watters' associate producer in June 2016, when his segment was still part of O'Reilly's show. Known for his brash, macho and sometimes obnoxious style, Watters hosted a segment on the O'Reilly Factor that combined man-on-the street with ambush journalism. Watters' humorous approach fell flat at times, such as in an October 2016 segment he filmed in New York City's Chinatown. It was panned as 'racist' after he wandered the streets asking locals if they knew karate and how often their watches were stolen. The segment, Watters' World, was spun out into a weekly show in January 2017. It airs at 8pm on Saturdays, combining humor and political news in a fresh slant aimed at a younger audience. When O'Reilly was ousted from the network in April 2017, over revelations that he'd secretly settled numerous sexual harassment suits, Watters also replaced Eric Bolling on The Five. Bolling himself was ousted last September over sexual harassment allegations. After Watters revealed his affair with DiGiovine (pictured with Donald Trump Jr) she was transferred to work for The Ingraham Angle, but the pair continued to date, sources said Watters is said to be a favorite cable news personality of President Donald Trump, and even dined with the commander-in-chief earlier this year. Trump asked Watters and former aide Sebastian Gorka to dinner at the White House because 'he couldnt get enough of them on TV', one source told the Daily Beast. Trump even signed the menu, which Watters tweeted a picture of. It read: 'To Jesse you are great!' Advertisement Travellers from across the country came together today to pay their final respects to a 'Gipsy King' in an extravagant funeral featuring a tractor, some sheep and even a bottle of gin. The picturesque village of Martock, Somerset came to a standstill today as around 300 gipsies came to pay their last respects to horse-trader and farmer Ivor Hughes, 46. Dubbed 'The King of the Gipsies', his funeral cortage was joined by twelve limousines and three lorries packed with flowers all following the coffin. Shops were closed and police were called in from miles around and one mourner said they had 'never seen anything like it'. The funeral cortage for horse-trader and farmer Ivor Hughes, 46, consisted of twelve limousines and three lorries packed with flowers. Shops were closed and police were called in from miles around to ensure the event did not get out of hand Mr Hughes, known as 'The King of the Gipsies', was described as a gentle giant and was the head of a large gipsy family. He died peacefully in his sleep at his home at Ilchester, Somerset, last month from heart failure There were three truckloads of wreaths including floral sculptures such as a horse, sheep, battery and bottle of gin (pictured). Some onlookers clapped and smiled and many locals were left delighted by the spectacle Stunning floral creations (including these of sheep) made up part of the funeral cortage. One mourner said 'This village has never seen anything like it. Twelve limousines, royalty wouldn't have it. This village won't have seen anything like this is all their lives' There was even a floral tractor which featured alongside the sheep, gin and crown. The word 'brother' was written in flowers beneath the tractor. Mr Hughes worked as a horse-trader and farmer during his life Around three hundred gipsies are believed to have arrived in the village today to pay their last respects. Some residents had made themselves scarce ahead of the parade with one resident commenting that they've 'never seen Martock so quiet' The funeral procession wound through the high street with villagers lining the streets and leaning out of windows to get a look. The mourners sang as they walked, Ivor's brothers, sisters and dad taking turns to sing Halleluiah and You are My Sunshine. Onlookers watched on as the colourful spectacle made its way through the village. Bringing up the rear of the procession were three truckloads of wreaths featuring a horse, sheep, a battery and a bottle of gin all made out of flowers. One mourner said 'This village has never seen anything like it. Twelve limousines, royalty wouldn't have it. This village won't have seen anything like this is all their lives.' Mr Hughes, known as 'The King of the Gipsies', was described as a gentle giant and was the head of a large gipsy family. He died peacefully in his sleep at his home at Ilchester, Somerset, last month from heart failure. The crowd made its way to All Saints church where the service was held - featuring a heartfelt tribute from family. Mourners walked in to Mr Bombastic by Shaggy and No Woman No Cry by Bob Marley was also played. Onlookers watched on as the colourful spectacle made its way through the village. Shops were closed and police were called in from miles around to control the streets around the procession Another of the impressive floral creations (this one a horse) which followed Mr Hughes coffin through the village of Martock. Mr Hughes was well-known for his love of horses, owning 40 or 50 cobs as well as dogs, sheep and chickens Tributes were left next to the floral creations which following Mr Hughes' coffin through the streets of Martock, Somerset. A member of staff at the local post office, who did not wish to be named, said locals had been nervous ahead of the procession - but many gathered to watch Another message is left for Mr Hughes on one of the many floral tributes that were created for the occasion. Ivor's death came a shock to his parents and 12 brothers and sisters. 'They're an incredibly close family, the boys are so devastated, they all are,' said one mourner A member of staff at the local post office, who did not wish to be named, said locals had been nervous ahead of the procession. But in the end many gathered on the streets to watch it pass through the village Neighbourhood police said they had been told that the wake would be a small gathering of close family - not the 300 that eventually arrived (pictured). However at least one car full of officers was parked near the church waiting for mourners to emerge said to have been drafted in from Keynsham, more than 60 miles away The congregation heard how 'He loved his family. His mum was his best friend and he always said that if his mum was small enough he would have kept her in his pocket. He phoned his father four-five times a day.' Family paid tribute to his skill with animals and his wheeler-dealing, saying he loved haggling with gypsies over horses as well as hare coursing and pheasant shooting. Neighbourhood police said they had been told that the wake would be a small gathering of close family. However at least one car full of officers was parked near the church waiting for mourners to emerge said to have been drafted in from Keynsham, more than 60 miles away. Ivor was well-known for his love of horses, owning 40 or 50 cobs as well as dogs, sheep and chickens. Residents had made themselves scarce ahead of the parade with one resident commenting that they've 'never seen Martock so quiet'. A member of staff at the local post office, who did not wish to be named, said locals had been nervous ahead of the procession. 'People have asked if we're going to close for the funeral,' he said. 'We're staying open. I think some locals are worried there might be alcohol involved.' The crowd made its way to All Saints church where the service was held - featuring a heartfelt tribute from family. Mourners walked in to Mr Bombastic by Shaggy and No Woman No Cry by Bob Marley was also played A member of the procession, who said he had known Ivor for 30 years, said: 'We've all got a lot of fond memories of Ivor. He was a good man. He never hurt people and he'd help anyone' Family paid tribute to his skill with animals and his wheeler-dealing, saying he loved haggling with gypsies over horses as well as hare coursing and pheasant shooting. His impact on the gipsie community was evidenced by the sheer number of people in attendance at the funeral (pictured) When mourners did arrive, some locals found it all a little too much. 'Why am I being held captive by these people' fumed one villager who had come to the high street to get his prescription only to be caught in the crowds. Ivor's death came a shock to his parents and 12 brothers and sisters. 'They're an incredibly close family, the boys are so devastated, they all are,' said one mourner. Another member of the procession, who said he had known Ivor for 30 years, said: 'We were having a bacon sandwich together three days before he died I knew he wasn't well but didn't know it was that bad. 'We've all got a lot of fond memories of Ivor. He was a good man. He never hurt people and he'd help anyone just don't take advantage. 'I know a lot of people didn't get on with him but we don't get on with everybody in the world, do we? 'People all tar gypsies with the same brush, saying they're thieves and this and that but I know plenty of people living in houses who are just as bad.' A Florida man who had tried to escape custody from police on a tractor was eventually caught and subdued by a stun gun. Video captured the moment a Sheriffs Deputy in the Florida Panhandle had to use a taser on 28-year-old Nicholas McNeil on Friday. It happened after the Deputy became concerned about the man who seemed to be veering off the road several times whilst driving the vehicle. A Florida deputy spotted the tractor driven by Nicholas McNeil, 29, swerving over the road Eventually he pulled over to the side of the road. The tractor had been stolen The man had no ID and his license was invalid but he did have pills and a knife The officer pulled him over but McNeil didn't have his identification with him. Furthermore, his license was invalid. Police managed to perform a search of the man and found a prescription bottle with pills and a knife. The officer and the suspect got into a fight. McNeil ran to avoid being handcuffed and the deputy chased after him. McNeil, attempted to flee, and the two men got into a scuffle when the officer used his taser The officer attempted to place McNeil under arrest - but then things suddenly took a turn The video shows McNeil dropping to the onto the road after being hit by a stun gun. The sheriff's office said he hit his head and lost consciousness. When he came to, he provided his real name. Emergency medical services were called to treat him for his injuries. Police have charged McNeil with grand theft after the tractor was stolen from a 71-year-old man. Several other charges are also pending, including battery on a law enforcement officer. McNeil made a run for it and the officer hot-footed it after him down the road This touching video shows how a cow, who suffers from anxiety, plays fetch with her owner to take her mind off it. Lotta, who lives on a farm near Gothenburg, Sweden, plays with her owner Jasmine Fenah Sjogren using a gym ball. Delighted Jasmine shared the video of Lotta playing on her Facebook account and it has been viewed more than three million times. In the heartwarming clip, you can see Lotta delightedly chasing after the gym ball with Jasmine laughing in the background. You can see Lotta bounding after the ball and up a grassy hill to catch up to it. No matter how far or how high, she always coaxes the ball back to her owner - who seems delighted with Lotta. Lotta the Swedish cow loves playing with her gym ball and can be seen chasing it up a hill before returning it to her owner Lotta got the ball three years ago when she was suffering with anxiety because she didn't have any calves. Her owner told a Swedish news site: 'Lotta got her ball three years ago when she was a little stressed because we did not have calves,' 'Since then, it has been with her.' According to her owner, Lotta got the ball three years ago when she was suffering with anxiety because she didn't have any calves She told another Swedish news company that Lotta can get a little stressed and upset. Both Jasmine and the other people who look after the cow are delighted by her love of the ball. She added: 'We just see joy in her'. Shahid Mohammed, 36, formerly of Huddersfield, is expected to appear at Leeds Magistrates' Court on Thursday October 4 A murder suspect is being extradited from Pakistan to Britain to face charges of an arson attack which wiped out three generations of one family, having evaded justice for 12 years. Shahid Mohammed, 36, formerly of Huddersfield, is expected to appear at Leeds Magistrates' Court on Thursday October 4. He was arrested on suspicion of murder in Pakistan in 2015 after 12 years on the run. Mohammed was wanted over an alleged arson attack in Birkby, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, which killed five young sisters, their mother, uncle and grandmother. The victims were Nafeesa Aziz, 35, and her five daughters: Rabiah Batool, 10, Ateeqa Nawaz, five, Tayyaba Batool, three, Aneesa Nawaz, two, and Najeeba Nawaz, who was six months old. The Chisti family, who were killed in the arson attack, pictured left to right: Rabia Batool, 10, Tayyaba Batool, 13, Aneesa Nawaz, 2, Naffeesa Aziz, 35, pregnant in this picture with Najeeba Nawaz, Ateeqa Nawaz, 7. Not pictured but also killed were Mohammed Ateeq-ur-Rehman and Zaib-un-Nisa Murderers poured petrol through the letterbox and put a petrol bomb through the window of the Chisti family's home in Birkby, Huddersfield in 2003, devastating an entire family The aftermath of the devastating fire that killed eight members of the same family Nafeesa Aziz's brother, Mohammed Ateeq-ur-Rehman, 18, also died in the fire and their mother, Zaib-un-Nisa, 54, died a week later in hospital after jumping from an upstairs window. Mohammed has been extradited from Pakistan to the UK by West Yorkshire Police, with the support of the National Crime Agency (NCA), the British High Commission in Islamabad, the Crown Prosecution Service and local authorities in Pakistan. He's been imprisoned in Pakistan since he was located and arrested in Rawalpindi on 22 January this year. His arrest followed a joint operation between West Yorkshire Police, the NCA and the Pakistani authorities. In July 2003 three Huddersfield men, Shaied Iqbal, Shakiel Shazad Amir, and Nazar Hussain, were convicted for their part in the crime. Nazar Hussain has since been released on parole. During the proceedings against Iqbal, Shazad Amir, and Hussain in 2003, the prosecution claimed the men had targeted the Chisti family because they held a grudge against 18-year-old student Mohammed Ateeq-ur-Rehman, known as Ateeq (pictured) Zaib-Un-Nisa (left) and six-month-old Najeebah Nawaz (right) were both killed in the horrific arson attack Three generations of the Chisti family died in the blaze in May 2002 which led to the arrests of four men Killers had poured petrol through the letterbox and put a petrol bomb through the window of the Chisti family's home in Birkby, Huddersfield which was gutted by the fire (pictured) and caused the deaths of eight people Shazad and Hussain were convicted of manslaughter while Iqbal was convicted of eight counts of murder. But Mohammed had failed to answer bail and has been sought by police ever since, with numerous appeals made for his whereabouts. It was always suspected that he had slipped out of the UK to evade justice in Pakistan. He was finally tracked down in the early hours of January 22, 2015 and was detained. The green petrol can found at the scene of an arson attack in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire in May 2002 Mohammed (pictured in 2015, left, and at the time of the attack aged 20, right) never appeared before the court after going on the run for more than a decade Tributes were left outside the charred home to the family who were tragically killed in the fire which was set as they slept in 2002 The blaze on the quiet Huddersfield street sparked a manhunt for missing suspect Shahid Mohammed who was wanted in connection with the attack Detective Superintendent Nick Wallen, of the West Yorkshire force's homicide and major enquiry team, said: 'This is a significant development in our investigation. 'I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all agencies here in the UK and in Pakistan who have worked tirelessly and supported West Yorkshire Police to ensure that this process has run smoothly to extradite him. 'At the centre of this investigation is the Chisti family, who lost eight members of their family during the fatal house fire and have shown such dignity since the tragedy occurred in 2002.' This is only the second extradition from Pakistan in more than 10 years, the force said. Michael Bloomberg is giving an additional $20 million to Democrats this election cycle, bringing his total investment in the midterm election to $100 million as speculation increases he will challenge President Donald Trump in 2020. Bloomberg, the billionaire former mayor of New York City, will give $20 million Senate Democrats this week in a bid to boost the party's chances of retaking control of that chamber. His moves comes as the Senate grapples with a decision on whether or not to confirm Brett Kavanaugh, Trump's nominee to the Supreme Court. And his major investment in the party this year could result in a lot of goodwill and IOUs from Democratic lawmakers in 2020 should Bloomberg decide to make another presidential bid. Michael Bloomberg is investing an additional $20 million in Democrats' chances to winning control of Congress in the midterms The move increases speculation Bloomberg could challenge President Trump in 2020 But, in the short term, his money will provide a significant boost to the party's chances of winning the Senate in November amid GOP worries they will lose control on Capitol Hill. Bloomberg is giving the funds to the Senate Majority PAC, The Washington Post reported, a super PAC that had $29 million on hand at the end of August and has been supporting candidates in expensive media markets. It is also closely tied to Bloomberg's good friend: Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer. Bloomberg, who was a political independent as mayor, said the debate over Kavanaugh has energized Democratic voters and provides a means for the party to rallying women and swing voters. His advisers told the newspaper that Bloomberg sees last week's contentious Kavanaugh hearings as a tipping point. 'Mike was extraordinarily disappointed in the Republican leadership in the Senate and feels increasingly passionate about changing it,' Bloomberg adviser Kevin Sheekey told The Post. 'And he's already enthusiastic about the impact he's having on House races and increasingly confident that he can contribute to a Democratic takeover.' Team Trump is watching Bloomberg for clues 'If I were a Democrat strategist . . . and somebody said to me, 'Who do you want to be the Democrat nominee for president of the United States?,' there's only one name I would choose . . . and his name is Michael Bloomberg,' former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski said at a Christian Science Monitor breakfast in August, the Post noted. 'Mike Bloomberg created tens of thousands of jobs over the course of his lifetime. That is a story the American people like, and he's an outsider. I think it would be a very competitive race,' Lewandowski noted. Bloomberg said in late September he'd make a decision on a White House bid after the midterm election, adding he's finds the attention heady. 'Right now I'm only focused on the midterms,' Bloomberg told CNN's 'Fareed Zakaria GPS.' 'I believe that the Republicans have not done what they should have done in terms of providing some counterbalance to the executive branch.' He added: 'Afterwards, you take a look at it.' Bloomberg said he was flattered by calls for him to take on his fellow New York billionaire. 'It is a very heady thing when people yell 'run, run, run,'' he said. 'We'd see whether or not it's possible and how I feel, but that's down the road,' he noted. 'You've got to take these things one at a time. Everybody's focused now on the midterms - at least they think they are, and they should be. And then afterward, we'll - there's lots of possibilities.' Bloomberg is invested in a Senate super PAC with close ties to his good friend Chuck Schumer Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren are also considering presidential bids This year, the billionaire is investing some of his massive cash to help Democrats in their quest to retake control of Congress. In addition to the $20 million announced on Wednesday, he's committed to spending at least $80 million to help Democrats win Congressional races this year. Bloomberg, who toyed in the past with launching a White House campaign as an Independent, told The New York Times earlier this month if he runs in 2020, it will be as a Democrat. He will be 76 in 2020, making him the oldest and richest person to seek the Oval Office. This also marks the fourth time Bloomberg has mulled throwing his hat into the presidential ring - an option he considered in 2008, 2012, and 2016. Bloomberg considered running as an Independent last cycle but ultimately opted not to run two years ago amid fears he could not win on a third-party line. But he campaigned against Trump, who smacked him down as a 'little guy.' Should Bloomberg opt to run, he could face a primary challenge from former Vice President Joe Biden and Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, both of whom said they would look at possible presidential campaigns after this November. Bus driver Greg Emmerson, 26, from Gravesend, pictured outside of court, denies causing death by careless driving A grandmother died after she was thrown from her seat on a bus and into a metal pole when the driver braked 'harshly and rapidly' to avoid hitting the rear of a van, a court heard. Beatrice Meager landed on the floor of the Arriva single decker and initially did not appear to be seriously injured after the near-miss. But when the 86-year-old was taken to hospital it was discovered she had in fact fractured several left ribs during the incident in Dartford, Kent, on the afternoon of September 19, 2016. The widow then developed breathing difficulties which led to infection and other complications and died 15 days later on October 4. It is alleged bus driver Greg Emmerson, who also hit his head with the force of his braking, failed to react in time to the Citroen Relay van which was indicating to turn right. It took five to seven seconds after the vehicle started indicating before Emmerson hit his brakes, Maidstone Crown Court was told today. The 26-year-old, from Gravesend, Kent, denies causing death by careless driving. Mrs Meager was travelling on the 414 bus to her home in Sutton at Hone just after 1.30pm. Emmerson later told police he knew the route well and it was 'one of his favourites'. Beatrice Meager developed breathing difficulties which led to infection and other complications and died 15 days later on October 4 Prosecutor Martin Yale said although he avoided colliding with the van, he had to brake so hard that he threw the pensioner from her seat, into a metal pole in front of her and onto the floor. A second female passenger also fell from her seat and had to be taken to hospital but the court did not hear details of any injuries. At the start of Emmerson's trial, Mr Yale told the jury of eight women and four men: 'It is the Crown's case that on the day in question he failed to react to a van in front of him, which was braking and turning right. 'By the time he began to brake at least five to seven seconds after that van began indicating to turn, although he was able to avoid a collision with the van, he had to brake so hard that he threw 86-year-old Beatrice Meager from her seat into a metal pole in front of her and onto the floor. 'In doing so she sustained injuries from which she would later die.' Mr Yale added that had Emmerson been driving with due care and attention he would have reacted 'much sooner' to the van. 'Indeed, the Crown say five to seven seconds is quite a period of time when someone is driving. Had he reacted sooner he would not have braked so harshly and could have brought his bus to a halt without throwing anyone from their seat. 'Once you have heard all the evidence you will decide that Mr Emmerson's driving, in failing to respond to the van, lacked adequate care and attention and that his inadequate care and attention caused the death of Beatrice Meager.' The court heard that the bus was following the van, driven by joiner Barry Pickthorn, at a safe distance and speed. Emmerson's view of the van and its indicators was said to be 'clear and unobstructed'. But although the bus did not collide with the van, such was the alleged 'rapid nature' of his braking that a BMW following behind made 'slight contact' with the rear of the single decker. However, the jury heard Mrs Meager was already on the bus floor by the time that collision occurred. CCTV on the bus captured the van indicating and the time delay before Emmerson began braking. It also showed the two passengers being thrown to the floor. 'Initially Mrs Meager didn't seem to be as seriously injured as she clesrly was. She was helped up by another passenger and by Mr Emmerson who swiftly came to assist,' said the prosecutor. 'However, she had in fact sustained fractures to her left ribs which led to breathing difficulties, infections and other complications from which she later died.' Emmerson told police at the scene that having looked in his mirror and then checked whether there were any waiting passengers at a bus stop, he looked back at the road ahead to see the van had 'slammed its brakes on'. He added he then took evasive action by applying his brakes 'as hard as he could', the court heard. 'He said that in the moments before the incident he checked his nearside mirror to see if there was any traffic behind him,' said Mr Yale. 'When he looked back ahead he saw the van driver brake sharply. He (Emmerson) braked harshly and stopped and banged his head. 'He was then aware of being hit by the car behind, looked in his internal mirror and saw two passengers on the floor.' Emmerson also told police he was running to time and not in a hurry, nor was he distracted by his passengers or communication on his two-way radio. The court heard he also told police he had not been aware of the van indicating until his company showed him the camera footage. Mr Yale said published research suggests that the 'typical' reaction time of a driver once aware of braking was between three-quarters of a second and two seconds. He also explained that buses are exempt from seatbelt regulations. Fellow passenger Ann Myers was sitting across the aisle from the pensioner when she felt the bus brake sharply. She was five to 10 minutes into her journey home from Dartford town centre and told the court she had no concerns about the way the bus was being driven or expect it to brske sharply. Bus driver Greg Emmerson, 26, pictured outside of court, denies causing death by careless driving Mrs Myers added however she did not realise anything was wrong until the bus stopped 'almost instantly'. 'In a split second as I turned around the lady was on the floor,' she told the jury. 'The lady in front of me got up to see to her and the driver got out of his cab to help. 'He said something about 'He didn't indicate'. He asked the lady whether she was alright and if everyone was okay.' Mrs Meager was helped back to her seat and was said to have needed 'some persuading' by the paramedics to get into the ambulance. 'She kept saying she was fine. She said she didn't want the ambulance but I think someone had called one anyway. She then said she felt a bit dizzy,' added Mrs Myers. Van driver Mr Pickthorn was returning to work from his break. He told the jury he was aware of speed cameras in the area and was driving at no more than 30mph along Hawley Road. As he approached his turning he indicated and slowed down to a crawl or 'roll' while waiting for an oncoming car. He said the vehicle had just passed him when he heard either the screech of tyres or a bang, looked in his side mirror and saw the bus driver put his hands to his face. Mr Pickthorn said he then noticed the car behind the bus but because his van had not been hit, he continued to turn into the alleyway. He did not know there had been an incident until police spoke to him later that day. 'It wasn't until the old lady died that I was thinking about everything I did and whether I did anything wrong,' he said. But Mr Pickthorn maintained he did not brake hard and had no need to. He also denied he went to turn into the entrance ahead of the oncoming car and then changed his mind. 'Because it's such a straight road you can see what is coming. People can make mistakes but no,' he said. The trial continues. Chilling footage of Charles Manson speaking from his jail cell will be aired for the first time tomorrow. It shows the notorious cult leader and murderer speaking to his followers from Los Angeles County jail and telling them, in coded language, to help him escape. He says in the footage: 'We are sneaking in the county jail looking under the door to see if the man is there. 'Sneakin' like little children out of town, sneakin' all round the court house... sneakin' everywhere. Former cult member Catherine 'Gypsy' Share (pictured on the show), who served five years in jail for her involvement in the cult, said the group believed Manson was sending them messages to try to get him out of prison 'Everything is sneaky up in Sneakyville,' he goes on. 'You gotta sneak to get to the truth, the truth is condemned, the truth is in the gas chambers.' Former cult member Catherine 'Gypsy' Share, who served five years in jail for her involvement in the cult, said the group believed Manson was sending them messages to try to get him out of prison. She said: 'He's programming us, telling us what to do. He's telling us to break him out of jail, to learn where the vents are, how to get in and out of the building and how to set him free.' The footage will air on Thursday night on ITV documentary Manson: The Lost Tapes which explores hours of footage compiled by US producer Robert Hendrickson. The footage will air tonight on ITV documentary Manson: The Lost Tapes which explores hours of footage compiled by US producer Robert Hendrickson. Pictured: Charles Manson Hendrickson had been given exclusive access to the Manson cult 50 years ago but his 1973 documentary was banned by a judge so much of the footage was never seen. Also in the show a woman who was a member of the cult explains what Manson convinced them to do for him. Sandra Good, known as Sandy, says in footage taken by Hendrickson: 'Whatever's necessary to do, you do it. When somebody needs to be killed, there's no wrong, you do it. And you move on and you kill whoever gets in your way. 'This is us,' she went on. 'If we were unarmed we would chew their necks off, anything, claw their eyes out. And they know it Whatever people have been asking for, we'll give it to 'em.' Charles Manson formed a murderous cult of 100 people in the 1960s in California. The so-called Manson family gained national and international notoriety after the murder of actress Sharon Tate and four others on August 9, 1969 by Tex Watson and three other members of the Family. Group members were also responsible for other murders, assaults, petty crimes and thefts. Manson died in jail aged 83 last year. Manson: The Lost Tapes airs on ITV at 9pm on Thursday. Charles Manson formed a murderous cult of 100 people in the 1960s in California. He is pictured in jail in the footage Ian Ziering was among the parents outside a West Hollywood school protesting about a student bully that they claim is threatening the lives of their children. The Sharknado and 90210 star was spotted among the parents gathered outside West Hollywood Elementary on Wednesday, who claim that the school board has done nothing about an alleged bully who has been terrorizing the public school students since entering the school in kindergarten. Ziering's two daughters, ages seven and five, attend the school. Ziering told TMZ that the student in question, who he did not name, has 'shown a history of violence' from kindergarten through second grade. Sharknado star Ian Ziering was spotted with other parents protesting outside his daughters' school Wednesday. The protest was concerning lack of action over an alleged bully (Ziering pictured with daughters, ages 5 and 7) The bully is said to be a second grader at the West Hollywood Elementary School The actor said that just this year so far, the second grader has 'brandished scissors' and 'beaten up and bloodied' 10 kids, while two classrooms had to be evacuated as a result of the student's actions. The bully allegedly previously tried to use a beanbag to suffocate another student. Ziering said that he felt compelled to protest Wednesday because he didn't speak up forcefully enough after learning about the alleged beanbag incident. 'I'm an actor, but my best role to date has been father,' he told TMZ. 'I can't let this go another minute without raising attention to this problem.' Ziering, pictured with his wife and daughters,'I'm an actor, but my best role to date has been father. I can't let this go another minute without raising attention to this problem' He said that he doesn't plan to withdraw his daughters from the school, however problems 'have to be addressed. If I leave the school that's just leaving the problem there. It has to be dealt with.' Ziering and several other parents, along with some students, were said to have been protesting outside the school. He said that he and the other parents have asked that the school board get the bully the necessary help, but that nothing has been done yet. A spokesperson from the Los Angeles Unified School District told DailyMail.com that the protest occurred across the street from the school and that the superintendent from the West Regional District spoke with concerned parents. 'While individual student matters are confidential, L.A. Unified has a strong no-tolerance policy when it comes to bullying, hazing or any behavior that threatens the safety or well-being of students, staff or persons at our school,' an L.A. Unified spokesperson said in statement, while providing a link to the school district's website page on Human Relations, Diversity and Equality. A college student who stabbed his roommate to death in a drunken fight over food was released from prison early on Tuesday after serving just 10 months behind bars. Kendal Scheid, 24, was sentenced to three years imprisonment in 2017 for killing his friend, Duncan Unternaher, 23, after arguing with him about Arby's takeout in December 2016. The pair, who were both students of The University of Akron, were at their off-campus apartment when Scheid stabbed him in the chest. Their other roommate called 911. In October last year, Scheid pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and was sentenced to three years behind bars. Kendal Scheid, 24, (left in court on Tuesday) was released from prison after serving 10 months for killing Duncan Unternahe, 23, (right) who he stabbed to death in a drunken, late night argument over Arby's takeout in December 2016 He was told by Summit County Common Pleas Judge Mary Rowlands at the time that if he behaved in prison, she would let him out early. On Tuesday, he was granted early release by the same judge despite Unternhaer's parents' protests. Before she made her ruling, Unternaher's parents pleaded desperately with her to keep him behind bars. 'A 23-year-old sons life is worth more than 10 months in jail,' his father pleaded. 'We are functioning but we hurt daily. We will hurt daily for the rest of our lives. 'Please dont increase our pain by letting him out,' his father, Gregory, pleaded with the judge. His mother cried as she made her own plea. Duncan's mother Brenda wept as she pleaded with a judge not to let her son's killer out after just 10 months. Scheid, who looked at the floor as she spoke, was sentenced to three years for involuntary manslaughter as part of a plea deal but he asked for early release in June The pair were both 'extremely' drunk at the time of the fight, according to their roommates. It has never been made clear what exactly they were fighting about. Duncan was a business senior when he died 'It hurts every day to know that something this senseless took away one of my most valued treasures in life my son Duncan,' she said. The judge however granted the request on the basis that he has been well behaved in prison. Afterwards, the victim's parents called for her to be stood down. 'What standard is that to say 'someone's dead now but [Scheid] is on his best behavior. 'We don't understand that logic of patting someone on the back for having murdered somebody because you're a role model prisoner,' Gregory Unternaher told WKYC. On the night of the killing, the students' roommate called 911 to report it. He said: 'My roommate just stabbed my other roommate. They're both extremely intoxicated.' Unternaher lost consciousness in the bathroom of the apartment before EMTs arrived. The killing happened at the apartment the pair shared with other roommates near the University of Akron's campus in Ohio He was pronounced dead in the hospital two days later. Prosecutors also pleaded with the judge not to let Scheid out early. They pointed to phone calls he had with his family while in prison where he spoke confidently about being released. 'Many of his conversations calls with family are about when he can get out of prison, how soon he can get out of prison. 'When asked by his father, just three days ago about if he thought about what he was going to say today, his response was a flippant, "Yeh, sure. I feel bad,"' said prosecutor Seema Misra. The judge said she was 'put off' by the calls but that she decided to grant him early release anyway. His lawyer said he was committed to carrying on in society the way he had been living behind bars; taking courses and working. Amazon recently announced the company will pay all of its U.S. employees a minimum of $15 an hourmore than double the federal minimum wage of $7.25. We listened to our critics, thought hard about what we wanted to do, and decided we want to lead, said Amazons founder and CEO Jeff Bezos. Were excited about this change and encourage our competitors and other large employers to join us. The decision is a smart move for Amazon. Unfortunately, the megacompany wants to force everyone else to do the same: In addition to committing to higher minimum pay, Amazon says it will push Washington, D.C., policymakers for a higher federal minimum wage. Dave Clark, Amazons senior vice president of worldwide operations, told NPR that the company believes $7.25 is too low for a federal minimum wage, though its not specifically advocating for $15. Amazon can afford higher wages and benefits from pricing out their competition. If Im a warehouse worker getting paid $15 an hour to work at Amazon, Im not likely to leave to take a job at another company for $7.25 an hour. But if every warehouse (and every other job in my area) is required to pay $15 an hour, then Ill make the decision to leave based on non-monetary factors. But there is another element that is often overlooked in discussions about minimum wage increases. Because of the labor price differential, Amazon can be more choosy about who they hire; their willingness to voluntarily pay a higher minimum pay gives them an advantage over other employers since theyll have more applicants to choose from. Unless their managers are incompetent, Amazon will only be hiring people whose labor is truly valued at $15 a hour. In other words, they will be getting what they are willing to pay for. That is why conservatives are right when they say government-mandated pay floors kill jobs. Not only will businesses that were willing to pay more lose their advantage in hiring, those not willing to pay more will fire/not hire people whose labor is valued at less than $15 an hour. Once minimum wages are raised, turnover rates also increase as people decide to stick with or leave a job based on other factors. And the people who will never be hired (e.g., low-skilled workers, new immigrants) are shut out of the labor market completely. So Amazon is making an intelligent business decision. But its only smart because they are free to make that choice for themselves. Mandating the government require a living wage is not only economically dumb, its counterproductive and harmful to the poor. An EU chief today mocked Theresa May for boogying on stage to Abba at her crunch Tory party conference speech. The Prime Minister displayed her rarely seen jokey side as she shimmied and strutted on stage to Dancing Queen - her favourite song. After arriving to the Swedish pop anthem, she used her hotly anticipated speech to warn the EU that Britain is 'not afraid' to leave without a deal if the bloc refuses to compromise. But Guy Verhofstadt, the EU Parliament's chief Brexit negotiator, was quick to mock the Prime Minister's dancing moves. Guy Verhofstadt (right) mocked Theresa May (left, dancing onto stage at the Tory conference) by reminding her that one of the song writers behind her favourite tune backed Remain (below, his tweet) He sent a tweet linking to a story about Abba member Bjorn Ulvaeus from over two years ago speaking out against Brexit. And he wrote: 'While dancing to ABBA today, PM May overlooked the fact that Bjorn from ABBA called Brexit a 'disaster'.' Ahead of the referendum, Bjorn Ulvaeus talked to 5 live's Sarah Brett in May 2016 stating Britain should remain in the bloc. 'I'm so nervous, I pray that you don't leave the EU - it would be a disaster,' he said. 'It really makes me sad the thought that Britain would leave.' 'It's like someone you love leaving you in a way. It's emotional. I'm not intellectually quite clear what I mean, but emotionally I'm certain I don't want Britain to leave.' But he did go on to say that he understood ambivalence toward the EU in both his home country of Sweden and the UK, highlighting what he believed was a valuable role Britain played in balancing the bloc's ambitions. 'The Swedes feel that with Britain in there's more people that think like we do in the EU,' he said. 'Britain is a balance to the continent - it is somewhere in between America and Europe.' Mr Verhofstadt's trolling of the PM came after she had issued another stern warning to the bloc not to play games with Britain over the Brexit talks. She told Brussels to treat the UK with respect and work to try to thrash out a deal in time for Britain's exit next year. And dialling up her rhetoric, she warned that the UK will leave without a deal if the EU does not compromise. Addressing party activists in Birmingham, she said: 'No one wants a good deal more than me. 'But that has never meant getting a deal at any cost. Britain isn't afraid to leave with no deal if we have to.' But while Mr Verhofstadt seized on May's conference address to poke fun at her dancing and Brexit plans, other foreign officials were more enthusiastic about her choice of music. The Swedish ambassador to the UK Torbjorn Sohlstrom tweeted: 'As Swedish Ambassador I can only say Bravo to @theresa_may for starting her conference speech with ABBA's Dancing Queen. #CPC18' Theresa May danced on to stage at Tory conference today and was cheered to the rafters by activists as she made light of her own political woes Mrs May is facing a frantic political battle to get a Brexit deal thrashed out in time in the face of opposition to her plans from Brussels and a mutiny from her MPs and activists. Her Chequers Brexit blueprint was rejected by leaders at the Salzburg summit last month in a major humiliation for the PM. While this week's Tory Party conference was overshadowed by Boris Johnson's savage attack on her plans. The ex foreign secretary addressed a packed-out 1,500-seater hall on the fringes of Tory conference yesterday to demand Mrs May to 'chuck' Chequers in a speech which delighted activists. His intervention has cast a massive shadow over conference and threatened to snatch all of the headlines away from the messages Mrs May and her ministers were trying to pump out. Mrs May today hit back at Mr Johnson and pleaded for her party to unite behind her and her Brexit plan. But while she appears to have staved off the immediate threat of a leadership challenge, many activists are still furious at her Brexit plans warning they would leave the UK having to swallow EU rules after the country leaves. She faces a race against time to broker a deal, with EU leaders demanding substantial progress is made by mid November if the deal is to stand a chance of being done in time. In the meantime, ministers have stepped up no deal planning amid mounting fears talks will fail and Britain will crash out of the bloc. Nicholas Francois Van Varenberg was sentenced to 18 months of probation for holding his roommate at knifepoint Jean-Claude Van Damme's son has been sentenced to 18 months of probation for holding his roommate hostage at knifepoint at their suburban Phoenix apartment. Nicholas Francois Van Varenberg previously pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct after police said he became upset with his roommate, grabbed a large kitchen knife and kept the man from leaving the apartment. The incident happened early in the morning on September 12, 2017 at University house, an apartment complex just off the Tempe campus. The Arizona Central reports that Van Varenberg was seen on surveillance video punching the wall of an elevator. Police responded, questioned Van Varenberg at his apartment and left after they determined he did not need any medical assistance. Cops were later called back to the apartment after receiving a complaint of banging and yelling coming from inside. When police went back to check, no one came to the door. Van Varenberg is pictured on the left with his dad Jean-Claude Van Damme, Van Damme's wife Gladys Portugues and Van kVarenberg's siblings Bianca and Kristopher Court records show that Van Varenberg was angry with his roommate for answering the door the first time police came. The roommate said Van Varenberg grabbed a knife from the kitchen, angled it at him and told him not to answer the door. His roommate told police that he feared if he did not keep quiet his 'parents will be at my funeral in two days'. The roommate said he was eventually able to convince Van Varenberg that he would not go to the police, and Van Varenberg put the knife down. The roommate said he ran out into the hallway and made a phone call. Van Varenberg eventually came out of the apartment on his own as police were attempting to secure a search warrant. Van Varenberg is the son of Van Damme and model Darcy LaPier, who are pictured in June 1995 Police said they found drug paraphernalia related to marijuana use and arrested him on suspicion of aggravated assault, unlawful imprisonment and drug possession. Charges of kidnapping, possession or use of marijuana and possession or use of drug paraphernalia were later dismissed when Van Varenberg pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct on August 15. Van Varenberg is the youngest son of Van Damme, known for his martial arts action films of the 1980s and 1990s. The actor also has a son named Kristopher and a daughter named Bianca. Osaka Mayor Hirofumi Yoshimura this week sent a letter to San Francisco announcing he's withdrawing from the largely ceremonial relationship The mayor of Osaka, Japan, says he's ending a six-decade 'sister city' relationship with San Francisco to protest a statue honoring women forced to have sex with Japanese soldiers during World War II. Osaka Mayor Hirofumi Yoshimura this week sent a letter to San Francisco announcing he's withdrawing from the largely ceremonial relationship. The statue was erected on city property last year by California's Korean, Chinese and Filipino communities. 'It is unfortunate that Mayor Yoshimura no longer wishes to maintain ties between the governments of San Francisco and Osaka,' said Jeff Cretan, a spokesperson for Mayor London Breed, to the San Francisco Examiner. 'However, we will remain sister cities via the people-to-people ties maintained by our San Francisco-Osaka Sister City Committee and their counterparts in Osaka.' Lillian Sing, co-chair for the Comfort Women Justice Coalition, called the decision 'outrageous' and 'absurd.' The statue was erected on city property last year by California's Korean, Chinese and Filipino communities She added: 'It shows how afraid the Osaka mayor and Japanese prime minister are of truth and are trying to deny history.' Historians say tens of thousands of so-called comfort women around Asia were forced to work in brothels for Japanese troops. It remains an open rift between Japan and other Asian nations. The statue has been a contentious subject for San Francisco, since it was first approved in St. Mary's Square in Chinatown. 'It is unfortunate that Mayor Yoshimura no longer wishes to maintain ties between the governments of San Francisco and Osaka,' said Jeff Cretan, a spokesperson for Mayor London Breed The statue - comprised of three young girls, standing in a circle - has been vandalized a number of times. But according to Sing, approximately two dozen Osaka Citizens Alliance members visited the city and celebrated the memorial's installation on September 22. 'Osaka citizens came to support us, and came to give us a message for the mayor and Board of Supervisors that they oppose their mayor's positions,' she stated. 'Citizens of Osaka stand in support and solidarity with us.' Yoshimura had announced plans to withdraw from the relationship in November, but chose to not follow through in part after Mayor Ed Lee died in November. A strip club in Texas named 'The Emergency Room' has sparked fears among residents that people seeking medical care will mistake it for a real hospital. The strip club in San Antonio is not yet open but its signage is up and is causing concern. Residents and local officials have complained to the owner that they fear it will attract the wrong crowd. This strip club in San Antonio has stoked fear in conscientious residents who fear it may be confused for a real hospital and lead to public health problems because of its name and signage City development services director Michael Shannon told Ken 5 he had spoken to the residents and thought their fears were justified. 'Someone brought that up and said someone could be confused to think it is an emergency clinic or a hospital-type facility, we could see that a little bit. 'It's kind of in that gray area so we want them to be clear,' he said. The sign includes the club's name, written in black letters, and two female silhouettes draped seductively on the ground. There is a red cross above the name and beneath it, the words 'gentlemen's lounge' are written in smaller, paler text. The club is still advertising for staff. It has not publicly responded to criticism over its name. The club wants to hire waitresses and 'sexy nurses' to work on the premises A New York police officer has been suspended from duty after allegedly hiring a sex worker who stole his personal car with his police-issued firearm inside, during the very early hours of Wednesday morning in Brooklyn. Officer Ali Sheppard, 28, was off-duty when he allegedly picked up Taquanna Lawton, 20, in his Brownsville neighborhood late on Tuesday, the New York Daily News reported. Sheppard got out of his 2015 Jeep Wrangler at an ATM to get cash to pay Lawton, but left the keys in the ignition, at which point Lawton allegedly drove off in his car, with his service weapon inside. The 13-year veteran of the force called authorities to report the stolen car, admitted his Smith & Wesson was also missing, and was immediately suspended. Lawton was arrested at around 12.10am on Wednesday, with authorities recovering both the vehicle and the gun. New York police officer Ali Sheppard, 38, has been suspended from duty after he allegedly hired sex worker Taquanna Lawton, 20, who reportedly stole his personal car with his police-issued firearm inside, during the very early hours of Wednesday morning in Brooklyn 'You gotta be f***ing kidding me,' Eugene Sheppard, the officer's father, said on Wednesday. 'Excuse my lingo man,' he said, while outside his son's home. 'This is a surprise.' It was a surprise for the officer, too, who was left empty-handed in more ways than one. Sheppard allegedly pick up Lawton, who is from Albany, at the intersection of Liberty Avenue and Sackman Street in Brownsville. Sheppard allegedly pick up Lawton, who is from Albany, at the intersection of Liberty Avenue and Sackman Street in Brownsville. It's believed they were on their way to a hotel in East New York when the officer had to make the pit stop to get out funds for the evening. Sheppard left his Jeep in idle while he stepped out, and Lawton made a break for it, forcing Sheppard to report his extracurricular activities to the local precinct, including the fact that his weapon was gone with the vehicle and the sex worker. 'He was immediately suspended,' NYPD Commissioner James O'Neill said. 'He'll be facing some disciplinary charges. We are working on the investigation.' Sheppard's father said his twice-deployed military veteran son has never been in trouble before. Lawton has been charged with grand larceny auto. A cringeworthy new ad has been released featuring celebrities talking about their 'first time' voting. Marvel stars, including Scarlett Johansson, Chadwick Boseman, Chris Evans, and Don Cheadle, were joined by Parkland mass shooting survivors for the tongue-in-cheek PSA urging young people to vote for the first time. 'I was nervous,' Johansson said. 'I mean, I didn't know how to do it,' Mark Ruffalo admitted. Don Cheadle said his first time was in church, while Chris Evans said 'My first time with a woman was 2016' Marvel stars, including Scarlett Johansson (pictured) Chadwick Boseman, Chris Evans, and Don Cheadle did a tongue-in-cheek PSA urging young people to vote for the first time Zoe Kravitz explained her first time 'was in the back of a fire house.' 'Voting is so hot!' she added. 'My first time with a woman was 2016,' said Evans, referring to Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential run. 'It felt good, but it ended badly.' 'Mine was in a church,' Cheadle said, before adding: 'My parents weren't allowed to do it until 1965, so I do it every chance I get.' 'Let's rise up, register and let our voices be heard,' Boseman encouraged Zoe Kravitz explained her first time 'was in the back of a fire house.' 'Voting is so hot!' she added 'Let's rise up, register and let our voices be heard,' Boseman encouraged. The silver screen superheroes, all wearing American flag-inspired shirts or sweatshirts were also joined by some real life heroes; the high school survivors of the shooting at Majory Stoneman in Parkland Florida. 'My first time everybody clapped afterwards,' said former student David Hogg. Fellow shooting survivor Emma Gonzalez urged viwerers: 'We have the numbers, we have the power, we can do this.' The silver screen superheroes were also joined by some real life heroes; the high school survivors of the shooting at Majory Stoneman in Parkland Florida (pictured is David Hogg) The PSA was organized by March For Our Lives in partnership with We Stand United and aims to encourage young, first-time voters to register and participate in the November 6 midterm elections. 'While the video may make you laugh, the message is clear. No matter how or where you do it, all that matters is on November 6th we need all Americans to register and vote on Election Day,' March For Our Lives Co-Founder Delaney Tarr told Entertainment Online. 'Our generation has the power to be heard all across America. We need every single American to join us in the fight.' Advertisement A 30,000 luxury car has come to a watery end after being accidentally knocked into a canal by a delivery driver. The 2004 Chesil 356 Speedster - a replica of the classic Porsche 356 - had been parked outside AutoVero luxury and classic cars when it was knocked into Regent's Canal in Islington, north London. The van also narrowly missed a nearby Mercedes, also owned by the luxury car dealership. Watching the efforts to try and recover the two-seater soft top from Wenlock Basin, AutoVero's owner and director Kalvin Cauldwell said: 'It could have been much worse.' A Chesil 356 Speedster convertible (pictured), a replica of the classic Porsche 356, floats in the Regent's Canal in north London after being knocked in by a delivery van today The Chesil 356 Speedster convertible cost 29,950 from the luxury car dealership. It is described as a low mileage Porsche 356 Chesil replica in meisson blue and with touring seats The car (pictured) is now likely a write-off and Mr Cauldwell is preparing to have to deal with insurers Mr Cauldwell said that despite the odd joke from passers-by including one wit saying 'I bet it will get a ticket soon', he was glad there were no serious injuries. A 'smashing noise' alerted him that something was wrong on Wednesday at about noon. It seems a delivery driver somehow made contact with the car which was in a car park at the back of the building, according to Mr Cauldwell. He said: 'It (the car) was knocked into the canal. 'It is an item of stock. It is now in the canal with lots of people scratching their heads thinking 'how are they going to get that out?' 'I was with a mechanic dealing with a Ferrari and I heard a smashing noise, then I was looking around and it was the canal.' Efforts are now being made to try and fish the car (pictured), which was parked outside AutoVero luxury and classic cars, from the canal AutoVero is the sole distributor for vintage speedster (one of which is pictured in the canal) in the UK. The company sells other classic cars including a 1990 Ferrari Testarossa for almost 120,000 and a 1989 Mercedes for almost 30,000 Mr Cauldwell is just glad other cars weren't also knocked into the water. He said: 'The driver managed to slide past a Mercedes that was there as well. 'It could have been much worse, definitely.' Mr Cauldwell said he was 'very lucky' to be dealing with such cars, and that AutoVero was the sole distributor for vintage speedster in the UK, but he hoped he would not be driven to despair with the pending insurance claim. Mr Cauldwell, who is now preparing to have to deal with insurers, expects the car is now a 'total loss', adding: 'I have never ever had a claim like this before and I doubt I will have one again.' The 100 civics (history and government) questions and answers for the naturalization test are listed below. The civics test is an oral test to which applicants will asked up to 10 out of 100 civics questions. An applicant must answer 6 out of 10 questions correctly to pass the test. 1. What is the supreme law of the land? the Constitution 2. What does the Constitution do? sets up the government defines the government protects basic rights of Americans 3. The idea of self-government is in the first three words of the Constitution. What are these words? We the People 4. What is an amendment? a change (to the Constitution) an addition (to the Constitution) 5. What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution? the Bill of Rights 6. What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment?* speech religion assembly press petition the government 7. How many amendments does the Constitution have? twenty-seven (27) 8. What did the Declaration of Independence do? announced our independence (from Great Britain) declared our independence (from Great Britain) said that the United States is free (from Great Britain) 9. What are two rights in the Declaration of Independence? life liberty pursuit of happiness 10. What is freedom of religion? You can practice any religion, or not practice a religion. 11. What is the economic system in the United States?* capitalist economy market economy 12. What is the 'rule of law'? Everyone must follow the law. Leaders must obey the law. Government must obey the law. No one is above the law. B: System of Government 13. Name one branch or part of the government.* Congress legislative President executive the courts judicial 14. What stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful? checks and balances separation of powers 15. Who is in charge of the executive branch? the President 16. Who makes federal laws? Congress Senate and House (of Representatives) (U.S. or national) legislature 17. What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress?* the Senate and House (of Representatives) 18. How many U.S. Senators are there? one hundred (100) 19. We elect a U.S. Senator for how many years? six (6) 20. Who is one of your state's U.S. Senators now?* Answers will vary. 21. The House of Representatives has how many voting members? four hundred thirty-five (435) 22. We elect a U.S. Representative for how many years? two (2) 23. Name your U.S. Representative. 24. Who does a U.S. Senator represent? 25. Why do some states have more Representatives than other states? (because of) the state's population (because) they have more people (because) some states have more people 26. We elect a President for how many years? four (4) 27. In what month do we vote for President?* November 28. What is the name of the President of the United States now?* Donald J. Trump Donald Trump Trump 29. What is the name of the Vice President of the United States now? Michael R. Pence Mike Pence Pence 30. If the President can no longer serve, who becomes President? the Vice President 31. If both the President and the Vice President can no longer serve, who becomes President? the Speaker of the House 32. Who is the Commander in Chief of the military? the President 33. Who signs bills to become laws? the President 34. Who vetoes bills? the President 35. What does the President's Cabinet do? advises the President 36. What are two Cabinet-level positions? Secretary of Agriculture Secretary of Commerce Secretary of Defense Secretary of Education Secretary of Energy Secretary of Health and Human Services Secretary of Homeland Security Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Secretary of the Interior Secretary of Labor Secretary of State Secretary of Transportation Secretary of the Treasury Secretary of Veterans Affairs Attorney General Vice President 37. What does the judicial branch do? reviews laws explains laws resolves disputes (disagreements) decides if a law goes against the Constitution 38. What is the highest court in the United States? the Supreme Court 39. How many justices are on the Supreme Court? nine (9) 40. Who is the Chief Justice of the United States now? John Roberts (John G. Roberts, Jr.) 41. Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the federal government. What is one power of the federal government? to print money to declare war to create an army to make treaties 42. Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the states. What is one power of the states? provide schooling and education provide protection (police) provide safety (fire departments) give a driver's license approve zoning and land use 43. Who is the Governor of your state now? 44. What is the capital of your state?* 45. What are the two major political parties in the United States?* Democratic and Republican 46. What is the political party of the President now? Republican (Party) 47. What is the name of the Speaker of the House of Representatives now? Paul D. Ryan (Paul) Ryan 48. There are four amendments to the Constitution about who can vote. Describe one of them. Citizens eighteen (18) and older (can vote). You don't have to pay (a poll tax) to vote. Any citizen can vote. (Women and men can vote.) A male citizen of any race (can vote). 49. What is one responsibility that is only for United States citizens?* serve on a jury vote in a federal election 50. Name one right only for United States citizens. vote in a federal election run for federal office 51. What are two rights of everyone living in the United States? freedom of expression freedom of speech freedom of assembly freedom to petition the government freedom of religion the right to bear arms 52. What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance? the United States the flag 53. What is one promise you make when you become a United States citizen? give up loyalty to other countries defend the Constitution and laws of the United States obey the laws of the United States serve in the U.S. military (if needed) serve (do important work for) the nation (if needed) be loyal to the United States 54. How old do citizens have to be to vote for President?* eighteen (18) and older 55. What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy? vote join a political party help with a campaign join a civic group join a community group give an elected official your opinion on an issue call Senators and Representatives publicly support or oppose an issue or policy run for office write to a newspaper 56. When is the last day you can send in federal income tax forms?* April 15 57. When must all men register for the Selective Service? at age eighteen (18) between eighteen (18) and twenty-six (26) 58. What is one reason colonists came to America? freedom political liberty religious freedom economic opportunity practice their religion escape persecution 59. Who lived in America before the Europeans arrived? American Indians Native Americans 60. What group of people was taken to America and sold as slaves? Africans people from Africa 61. Why did the colonists fight the British? because of high taxes (taxation without representation) because the British army stayed in their houses (boarding, quartering) because they didn't have self-government 62. Who wrote the Declaration of Independence? (Thomas) Jefferson 63. When was the Declaration of Independence adopted? July 4, 1776 64. There were 13 original states. Name three. New Hampshire Massachusetts Rhode Island Connecticut New York New Jersey Pennsylvania Delaware Maryland Virginia North Carolina South Carolina Georgia 65. What happened at the Constitutional Convention? The Constitution was written. The Founding Fathers wrote the Constitution. 66. When was the Constitution written? 1787 67. The Federalist Papers supported the passage of the U.S. Constitution. Name one of the writers. (James) Madison (Alexander) Hamilton (John) Jay Publius 68. What is one thing Benjamin Franklin is famous for? U.S. diplomat oldest member of the Constitutional Convention first Postmaster General of the United States writer of 'Poor Richard's Almanac' started the first free libraries 69. Who is the 'Father of Our Country'? (George) Washington 70. Who was the first President?* (George) Washington 71. What territory did the United States buy from France in 1803? the Louisiana Territory Louisiana 72. Name one war fought by the United States in the 1800s. War of 1812 Mexican-American War Civil War Spanish-American War 73. Name the U.S. war between the North and the South. the Civil War the War between the States 74. Name one problem that led to the Civil War. slavery economic reasons states' rights 75. What was one important thing that Abraham Lincoln did?* freed the slaves (Emancipation Proclamation) saved (or preserved) the Union led the United States during the Civil War 76. What did the Emancipation Proclamation do? freed the slaves freed slaves in the Confederacy freed slaves in the Confederate states freed slaves in most Southern states 77. What did Susan B. Anthony do? fought for women's rights fought for civil rights C: Recent American History and Other Important Historical Information 78. Name one war fought by the United States in the 1900s.* World War I World War II Korean War Vietnam War (Persian) Gulf War 79. Who was President during World War I? (Woodrow) Wilson 80. Who was President during the Great Depression and World War II? (Franklin) Roosevelt 81. Who did the United States fight in World War II? Japan, Germany, and Italy 82. Before he was President, Eisenhower was a general. What war was he in? World War II 83. During the Cold War, what was the main concern of the United States? Communism 84. What movement tried to end racial discrimination? civil rights (movement) 85. What did Martin Luther King, Jr. do?* fought for civil rights worked for equality for all Americans 86. What major event happened on September 11, 2001, in the United States? Terrorists attacked the United States. 87. Name one American Indian tribe in the United States. Cherokee Navajo Sioux Chippewa Choctaw Pueblo Apache Iroquois Creek Blackfeet Seminole Cheyenne Arawak Shawnee Mohegan Huron Oneida Lakota Crow Teton Hopi Inuit 88. Name one of the two longest rivers in the United States. Missouri (River) Mississippi (River) 89. What ocean is on the West Coast of the United States? Pacific (Ocean) 90. What ocean is on the East Coast of the United States? Atlantic (Ocean) 91. Name one U.S. territory. Puerto Rico U.S. Virgin Islands American Samoa Northern Mariana Islands Guam 92. Name one state that borders Canada. Maine New Hampshire Vermont New York Pennsylvania Ohio Michigan Minnesota North Dakota Montana Idaho Washington Alaska 93. Name one state that borders Mexico. California Arizona New Mexico Texas 94. What is the capital of the United States?* Washington, D.C. 95. Where is the Statue of Liberty?* New York (Harbor) Liberty Island Also acceptable are New Jersey, near New York City, and on the Hudson River. 96. Why does the flag have 13 stripes? because there were 13 original colonies because the stripes represent the original colonies 97. Why does the flag have 50 stars?* because there is one star for each state because each star represents a state because there are 50 states 98. What is the name of the national anthem? The Star-Spangled Banner 99. When do we celebrate Independence Day?* July 4 100. Name two national U.S. holidays. New Year's Day Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Presidents' Day Memorial Day Independence Day Labor Day Columbus Day Veterans Day Thanksgiving Christmas Authorities have issued a warrant for a woman who allegedly used her child's sippy cup to sneak alcohol into a Georgia movie theater. Police said that Kristina Gibson, of Cobb County, Georgia, laced her five-year-old son's sippy cup with a 'strong alcoholic beverage' to sneak it into a movie screening on Monday. When her son began crying during the film, moviegoers at the Merchant Walk Stadium Cinema in East Cobb, Georgia, complained to staff, who then asked her to leave, according to WSBTV. Authorities issued an arrest warrant for Kristina Gibson, who they said had laced her five-year-old son's sippy cup with alcohol to sneak the booze into a Georgia movie theater The theater employees called authorities and attempted to stop Gibson from getting into her car with her child and driving off. Authorities said Gibson became so intoxicated that she was unable to walk, talk or stop her child from bothering other moviegoers When officers arrived, Gibson allegedly threaten to kill one of them. In the warrant for her arrest, police wrote that Gibson drank the sippy cup alcohol and may have ingested a central nervous system depressant, resulting in her being so intoxicated that she couldn't 'walk, talk or care' for her five year old, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. A Cobb County police spokesperson told the newspaper that officers took Gibson to the hospital for treatment because she 'was that drunk,' rather than arresting her in the movie theater parking lot. One of Gibson's friend was said to have been called to pick up the five-year-old from the theater. Gibson was not yet in custody as of Wednesday afternoon, according to authorities. She is now said to be facing reckless conduct and public intoxication charges. A former navy sailor has been been arrested for sending an envelope which was believed to have contained ricin to President Donald Trump. William Clyde Allen III, 39, of Logan, Utah, was in custody on Wednesday and is seen grinning in his mugshot. He reportedly served in the Navy from 1998 to 2002 as a fireman apprentice on supply and support ships. The announcement of his arrest comes as three suspicious envelopes sent to the White House and Pentagon on Monday were found to contain castor seeds and not ricin in its extracted form which can kill if inhaled. Fox News reported that officials were led to Allen's home after his return address was on one of the envelope mailed to the Pentagon. William Clyde Allen, 39, of Logan, Utah, has been arrested. He is seen above grinning in his mugshot Law enforcement officers search William Clyde Allen's house in Logan, Utah, wearing protective clothing A law enforcement officer dons a mask to search the property in Utah Allen served in the Navy from 1998 to 2002 as a fireman apprentice on supply and support ships Pentagon spokeswoman Dana White made the clarification on Wednesday and said the FBI was still investigating. Ricin can be extracted from the seeds which can be lethal if eaten in large quantities but otherwise harmless. If a person is exposed to ricin in its extracted form, they can die within 72 hours by inhaling much smaller amounts of the toxin which causes respiratory failure. None of the envelopes reached their intended targets. They set off alarms in off-site mailing facilities which detect ricin or other poisonous elements in incoming packages. The first two envelopes that were addressed to Secretary of Defense James Mattis and Chief of Naval Operations John Richardson. They triggered alarms during screening at a mail facility which is not inside the main building but is nearby, defense officials said. They were sent to the FBI for additional testing. Fox News reported that officials were led to Allen's home after his return address was on one of the envelope mailed to the Pentagon Allen was taken into custody at the scene. Investigators are seen outside the home All mail that was sent to the Pentagon was placed under quarantine as a precaution. FBI and law enforcement officers put on masks and hazmat suits to enter the home At around the same time, two people were hospitalized after being exposed to a white powder that was contained in mail sent to Sen. Ted Cruz's Houston campaign office. Their injuries are not known. Neither of the victims worked for Cruz's campaign. It is not known if the two incidents are linked or what the substance sent to Cruz's office was. After the incident at Cruz's office, the Houston Fire Department conducted tests in the building but no harmful substances were found. All mail sent to the Pentagon via the US Postal Service on Monday was placed under quarantine as a precaution and all workers from Cruz's Houston campaign office were evacuated. All mail that was sent to the Pentagon was placed under quarantine as a precaution. US Defense Department personnel work in the mail room at the Pentagon where two of the envelopes were found yesterday. The envelopes contained castor seeds and not actual ricin but they triggered alarms in the screening process A third envelope was reported by the Secret Service as being intercepted before arriving at the White House Officials say the first two were addressed to Secretary of Defense James Mattis (pictured left) and Chief of Naval Operations, John Richardson (right) Ricin exposure can lead to death if the toxin is inhaled directly. It is commonly used in terror plots. It remains unclear what form it was sent to the Pentagon in. In a statement, the FBI confirmed its investigation. 'On Tuesday, October, 2, 2018, in coordination with the Pentagon Force Protection Agency, FBI Special Agents took possession of two suspicious envelopes that had been screened at the Pentagon mail facility. 'Those envelopes are currently undergoing further testing. 'As this is ongoing, we will have no further comment,' a spokesman said. Ricin causes a painful deaths which begin with nausea and vomiting. The toxic components then cause internal bleeding and ultimately lead to respiratory failure. The envelopes were intercepted in the mailing facility which is not inside the Pentagon (pictured on Tuesday) Several terror plots which use the toxin have been foiled in Europe in the past including an intended attack on a London Underground station in 2003 and a separate attack in Germany in June this year. The envelopes contained castor seeds which (file image shown) which ricin can be extracted from. They can cause deadly illness if eaten in large quantities but do not pose any form of risk to air After initial exposure to ricin, symptoms ordinarily appear in around 10 hours and death can occur within 72 hours. Since the anthrax attacks which killed five people after the powder was distributed through mail in 2003, the US Government has increased measures to protect workers and officials from exposure to any harmful substances. They include putting mail through X-Ray machines and scanners which detect vapors and identify anything poisonous or toxic. In Washington DC, the US Postal Service also samples the air as mail is being sorted before it is sent to government buildings. Shimaa Qasim (pictured) was given the chilling threat after model and social media star Tara Fares, 22, was shot dead in her Porsche at traffic lights A former Miss Iraq was warned Youre next after another beauty queen was killed in Baghdad in a suspected murder campaign against glamorous women. Shimaa Qasim was given the chilling threat after model and social media star Tara Fares, 22, was shot dead in her Porsche at traffic lights. A gunman blasted her three times in broad daylight before escaping on a motorbike ridden by an accomplice. Her murder on September 27 followed the killing of a female activist in the southern city of Basra and the deaths of two well-known beauty experts. Fears that they were deliberately targeted intensified when the killers warned former Miss Iraq Miss Qasim that she was their next target. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has ordered intelligence officers to investigate links between the killings and the threat against women in the public eye who live a Western lifestyle. In a statement, he spoke of evidence suggesting that there is a plan formulated by organised parties to undermine security under the pretext of fighting against depravity. Miss Qasim, a 23-year-old TV host who was crowned Miss Iraq in 2015, said she received death threats just days after the murder of Miss Fares, who had millions of Instagram followers. In an emotional video on her Instagram feed, she described Miss Fares as a martyr and said successful women in Iraq faced being slaughtered like chickens. Tara Fares, 22, (pictured) was shot dead in her Porsche at traffic lights. A gunman blasted her three times in broad daylight before escaping on a motorbike ridden by an accomplice Miss Fares had received a torrent of online insults from Islamic hardliners over her perceived lack of modesty. The war-ravaged country is fighting to keep Islamic State extremists out of major cities after they fled to the desert. The violence has raised fears of a return to the kind of attacks on prominent figures that plagued the country at the height of its sectarian strife. Dr Rafeef al-Yassiri, 32, a plastic surgeon labelled Iraqs Barbie who posted images of herself on social media, died under mysterious circumstances Human rights activist Hana Adwar said: These harrowing crimes are worrying. There are groups that want to terrify society through the killing of popular women and activists, and tell other women to abandon their work and stay at home. Miss Fares, who was half Iraqi and half Lebanese, became famous in 2015 when she won a beauty pageant in Baghdad. It made her a social media pin-up, and glamorous photos of herself wearing make-up, jeans and revealing blouses that showed off her tattoos attracted 2.7million Instagram fans. Her YouTube channel, on which she shared make-up tips, drew more than 120,000 followers. She spoke openly of a brief marriage at 16 to an abusive husband who posted intimate photos of her on social media and took away their son, who is now three. She also spoke out against religious, tribal and political leaders. While many young Iraqis shared her videos and pictures, others criticised her as provocative and un-Islamic. Rasha al-Hassan, the owner of a well-known beauty centre in Baghdad, was found dead in her home. Authorities initially said she had a heart attack On August 17, Dr Rafeef al-Yassiri, 32, a plastic surgeon labelled Iraqs Barbie who posted images of herself on social media, died under mysterious circumstances. Authorities initially said she was killed by a drug overdose, but have not offered an update in over a month, leading to rumours that she might have been poisoned. A week later, on August 24, Rasha al-Hassan, the owner of a well-known beauty centre in Baghdad, was found dead in her home. Authorities initially said she had a heart attack. On September 25, two days before Tara Fares was killed, human rights activist Suad al-Ali was shot dead in the southern city of Basra. A video posted online appeared to show an unidentified man opening fire as she got into a car near a supermarket. One stylist who speaks under the assumed name of Safaa Nasser said an organised network was behind the premeditated actions, and revealed that she had changed her behaviour over safety fears. Miss Nasser, who organised fashion shows, added: My daughters and I go out less and I stay away from the fashion world. There are people who dont want Iraq to develop or for women to be visible. They want to take us backwards. Residents of one Chicago neighborhood are fearing for their lives following the murder of two men in just two days. Police are now on the hunt for the masked gunman who appears to be behind the random attacks in Rogers Park, with ballistics revealing that both men were shot dead with a bullet from the same gun. That revelation was shared by Rahm Emanuel during a news conference, with the city's mayor also stating: 'People will go about their daily lives, but we want it to be done in a safe way. A smart and vigilant way.' Terror alert: A masked gunman (above on Sunday) murdered two people by firing bullets into their heads at point blank range in Chicago's Rogers Park neighborhood Blocks away: These fatal attacks occured within 36 hours of one another on Sunday and Monday, leading to fears that there could be a serial killer on the loose Douglas Watts (left) was shot dead on Sunday and thirty-six hours later, just after 10pm on Monday, 24-year-old Eliyahu Moscowitz (right) was also shot dead with a bullet to the head Douglass Watts, a 73-year-old resident who lived in the neighborhood with his partner, was shot in the head while walking his dogs shortly after 10am on Sunday morning. Thirty-six hours later, just after 10pm on Monday, 24-year-old Eliyahu Moscowitz was also shot dead with a bullet to the head. None of the victim's belongings had been taken from them and the killer quickly fled the scene, actions that have some concerned that there may be a burgeoning serial killer walking the streets. The Chicago police Department has flooded social media with an image of the man captured by a surveillance 'On Sunday, September 30, 2018 at approximately 10:07 a.m., the victim was walking his dog on the block of 1400 W. Sherwin Avenue when the offender approached him,' said police in a report released on Tuesday. 'The offender fatally shot the victim and fled westbound on Sherwin Avenue and then southbound in the west alley. The offender is described by witnesses as a black male, thin build, and wearing dark clothing.' It is unclear how any eyewitness was able to describe the color of the shooter's skin, given that he was wearing gloves and a mask. Moscowitz, who was a member of the Orthodox Jewish community, was found by a local pastor soon after he was gunned down on Monday night. No images or footage of the suspect has been released from that incident at this time. Police have now amped up their presence in the neighborhood. It is not just the police on the case either, with the ATF and FBI both now involved too in the search for the person responsible for these fatal attacks. Any person with information about either incident is urged to call the Area North Bureau of Detectives at (312) 744-8261. Anonymous Tips can be submitted to CPDTIP.COM Kristin Westra (left), 47, disappeared on Monday morning Dozens of people have been out searching for a Maine elementary school teacher who got out of bed about 3am on Monday and never came home. Kristin Westra, 47, disappeared on Monday morning. Her husband, Jay Westra, says she got out of bed before dawn and left the house, but left behind her phone, keys, wallet and car. Westra's brother, Eric Rohrbach, told ABC News the behavior was 'very abnormal', and said his sister, a mother-of-two, was the 'last person that would do something like this.' Police were involved in the search on Monday, but packed it in on Tuesday due to weather and 'information detectives gathered during their investigation'. The Maine State Police have ruled her disappearance not suspicious, but told WMTW they were still involved in the search and were talking to friends and family about any issues in her life before Monday morning. No further information was provided by law enforcement, and calls made by DailyMail.com were not returned. The mother-of-two had been restless lately, Rohrbach told the Press Herald. The Chebeague Island School, where she teaches grades 3-5 is being renovated, as is the first floor of her home. Family are still desperately searching for the elementary school teacher, who reportedly left her phone, wallet, keys and car behind (pictured left with husband Jay Westra) Westra had been under pressure due to renovations at home and work, but her brother says she would never disappear without a trace, and the last few days had been like 'something out of a nightmare Westra's younger brother said she was feeling pressure because the school remodel wasn't allowing her to teach as well as she'd like, and the home renovations left her without a sanctuary. 'When she comes home, (the family members) don't have a place to relax,' he said. 'They were like eating dinner in the garage. Kristin is someone who likes to come home and curl up with a book, and she couldn't do that.' Rohrbach said he was petrified she was stuck in the woods somewhere, unable to move. 'It's incredibly surreal. It's something out of a nightmare,' he said. Westra is 5-foot-10 and weighs 140 pounds. She has brown hair and brown eyes, according to the sheriff's office. Anyone with information is asked to called the Cumberland County Regional Communications Center at (207) 893-2810, option 2. Attorney Michael Avenatti has produced a new accuser against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh who charges him with being part of a group of teenage boys who spiked drinks at parties 'with Quaaludes and/or grain alcohol' in order to make girls 'less likely to say no.' The accuser describes herself as a 1983 graduate of a Washington D.C. area high school and says that during the years 1981-82, I witnessed firsthand Brett Kavanaugh, together with others, spike the punch at house parties I attended with Quaaludes and/or grain alcohol. I understood this was being done for the purpose of making girls more likely to engage in sexual acts and less likely to say no.' Avenatti tweeted the information in the form of a sworn statement from the witness, whose name is blacked out, and said 'she is prepared to meet with the FBI today and disclose multiple facts and witnesses.' Avenatti, who also represents third Kavanaugh accuser Julie Swetnick, offered no further information. Attorney Michael Avenatti has produced a new accuser against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh who charges him with being part of a group of teenage boys who spiked drinks at parties 'with Quaaludes and/or grain alcohol' A new accuser claims Brett Kavanaugh spiked drinks in high school with 'Quaaludes and/or grain alcohol' This was done, the accuser says, 'for the purpose of making girls more likely to engage in sexual acts and less likely to say no'' The accuser also said there is more out there against President Donald Trump's nominee to the Supreme Court. I am aware of other inappropriate conduct by Brett Kavanaugh but do not feel comfortable stating it at this time in this declaration. I am fully, willing, and able to speak with the FBI and tell them everything I know about Brett Kavanaugh and his misconduct if I am contacted,' she said. Kavanaugh's elevation to the high court is in limbo as senators wait for a report from the FBI on the claims against him, which could happen as early as Wednesday. Kavanaugh faces multiple allegations of sexual assault, all of which he has denied. Christine Blasey Ford has accused Kavanaugh of pinning her to a bed, trying to rip off her clothes and covering her mouth when she screamed while they two of them were teenagers at a party in the 1980s. Debra Ramirez claims Kavanaugh exposed himself to her during a dorm party at Yale University, thrust his penis in her face and forced her to touch it when she pushed him away. Julie Swetnick claims Kavanaugh and his Georgetown Prep pal Mark Judge were part of a group of guys who drugged and gang raped women. As part of their investigation into the allegations, the FBI has spoken to Ramirez and investigated Ford's claim but agents have not spoken to Swetnick, who has said she is willing to talk. Nor have they spoken to Ford herself. Ford's attorneys complained on Wednesday their client has not been contacted for an interview. Attorney Michael Avenatti said his new accuser is willing to talk to the FBI Brett Kavanaugh's Supreme Court nomination is in limbo Agents did talk Judge, who Ford claims was in the room when Kavanaugh attacked her. And Avenatti published emails he had sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee demanding that it 'take all steps to arrange an FBI interview' with Swetnick. The new accuser says she has known Ford and Swetnick 'for decades and I believe they are both honest and truthful. The accuser said she met the two at one of their now-infamous Beach Week parties in 1980. I was first introduced to Brett Kavanaugh and Mark Judge in 1980 at Beach Week, in Ocean City, Maryland,' the accuser stated. More information has come to light about the 'beach weeks.' Kavanaugh once described his high school friends as a 'group of obnoxious drunks' in a letter written in 1983, ahead of a beach week in Maryland. Kavanaugh is pictured standing second right in a photograph taken on the beach with seven of his Georgetown classmates, though it is not clear if this vacation is the same as the one mentioned in his letter (left to right) Christine Ford, Deborah Ramirez and Julie Swetnick have all accused Judge Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct; he has flatly denied all the charges He made the remark in a handwritten letter to seven of his Georgetown Prep classmates in 1983 as they descended on a property in Ocean City for 'Beach Week'. The letter mostly gives instructions for those arriving at the condo ahead of him, but also includes several off-the-cuff remarks that have taken on new significance after he was accused of assaulting multiple women while drunk. WHO THE FBI ARE KNOWN TO HAVE QUESTIONED IN THE KAVANAUGH PROBE Accuser Debbie Ramirez She says Kavanaugh exposed himself during a dorm party in their freshman year at Yale. Her attorney says she gave a list of 20 potential witnesses to the FBI Kavanaugh friend Mark Judge Man who Christine Blasey Ford says was in the room when Kavanaugh tried to rape her. His attorney said his interview spread over Monday and Tuesday. Judge, a recovering alcoholic, has denied being present at any such event and said he believed his high school friend's innocence. He also denied claims that he and Kavanaugh spiked drinks with drugs and were present during third accuser Julie Swetnick's alleged gang rape Kavanaugh friend Tim Gaudette His house was the venue for a mid-week 'skis' (beers) party on July 1, 1982, according to Kavanaugh's calendars. Ford described a party with an almost identical list of attendees. His attorney confirmed an interview but did not say what Gaudette told agents. Kavanaugh friend P.J. Smyth He was named by Ford as being at the party downstairs when she was sexually assaulted, and featured on the July 1 'skis' night list of attendees. Has previously said he did not recall such an event. Kavanaugh friend Chris 'Squi' Garrett Has been named by Ford as someone she was dating in the summer of 1982, and is on the list of attendees of the 'skis' party. His attorney says he spoke to the FBI but did not disclose his evidence. Ford friend Leland Keyser Ford said her longtime friend was at the party where she alleges she was assaulted and was downstairs at the time. Has denied any memory of such an event but Ford said Leland sent a text message saying she believed her. Advertisement One sentence in the letter reads: 'I think we are unanimous that any girls we can beg to stay there are welcomed with open... Anyway, I think we're all set.' In a post-script, he writes: 'It would probably be a good idea on Saturday the 18th to warn the neighbors that we're loud, obnoxious drunks with prolific pukers among us. Advise them to go about 30 miles.' The new accuser said after meeting the two during beach week, she attended multiple house parties with them over the next two years. 'I attended at least 20 house parties in the Washington, D.C. area where Brett and Mark were present during the years 1980-82. I knew them both well as we shared many mutual friends and often socialized with the same people,' she noted. She said the house parties were a common occurrence and usually occurred on the weekends during the school year. She said both Kavanaugh and Judge got aggressive due to excessive drinking. I know of many instances during these house parties where Brett and Mark would drink excessively and be overly aggressive and verbally abusive toward girls,' she noted. 'This conduct included inappropriate physical contact with girls of a sexual nature. It also included Brett drinking to a point where he was incoherent and vomiting, well before he was 18 years old. She also said Kavanaughs claim in his Fox News interview of being a virgin and a choir boy is absolutely false and a lie based on what I observed firsthand. It is also laughable. Kavanaugh himself launched the unusual virgin defense in his Fox interview last week while seated alongside his wife, Ashley. He brought up his own virginity through high school and subsequent years vigorously denying allegations of assault and groping. 'We're talking about allegations of sexual assault. I've never sexually assaulted anyone. I did not have sexual intercourse, or anything close to sexual intercourse in high school or for many years thereafter, and the girls from the schools I went to and I were friends,' Kavanaugh told Fox interviewer Martha MacCallum. 'So you're saying through all these years that are in question that you were a virgin?' MacCallum asked him. 'That's correct,' Kavanaugh responded. 'Never had sexual intercourse with anyone in high school?' she followed up. 'Correct,' he responded. That prompted MacCallum to ask: 'And through what years in college, since we're probing into your personal life here?' 'Many years after, I'll leave it at that. Many years after.' Others have questioned this claim from Kavanaugh. Stephen Kantrowitz, a history professor at the University of Wisconsin who attended Yale with Kavanaugh, said the Supreme Court nominee told him decades ago about 'losing his virginity.' 'My conversation with Brett Kavanaugh raises doubt about a statement he made on September 24 on national television,' Kantrowitz said in the statement. 'Contrary to his assertion that he remained a virgin "for many years" after high school, during our freshman year he described losing his virginity.' The new accuser ends her statement with her swearing to the truth of her allegations. I am aware of other witnesses that can attest to the truthfulness of each of the statements above,' she said. It was business as usual for The Apprentice this evening with the usual gaffes, boasting and bickering - but one blunder stuck out among the rest. One which saw candidates buying a dead octopus with what they thought had a '40-inch hose'. For the first episode of this year's season Lord Sugar decided to send the 16 candidates abroad. The two teams split into men and women and were tasked with buying a number of items from Valletta - the capital of Malta. The men's team, led by Rick Monk (left), are seen asking a fishmonger for an octopus with a 40-inch hose The baffled staff do their best to please the candidates, even getting out a tape measure to measure one of the octopus tentacles With Lord Sugar joking that the candidates had better enjoy Europe while they still can. Items they had to buy included wine, honeycomb and salt - in celebration of the country's local produce. But one item left the candidates scratching their heads - an octopus with a 40-inch hose. The teams couldn't decide whether it was a real life octopus or another item called the same thing - in actual fact a piece of scuba diving equipment. The men were quick to visit a fishmongers and in an amusing scene started measuring up a dead octopus - checking it was 40 inches long. But how wrong they were. Baffled staff tried their best to give the candidates - led by Rick Monk - what they thought they wanted. But to the amusement of everyone watching, this wasn't the Octopus the candidates were after. The official Apprentice Twitter account also poked fun at the candidates stressing they were not looking for the ocean-dwelling animal (pictured above). Others also found the whole episode very amusing (below) Lord Sugar himself took to Twitter to ridicule the men's team, saying: 'The Octopus . They won't have 8 legs to stand on.' While The Apprentice official account called the team 'a bunch of suckers' and has also changed its profile picture on Twitter to that of an octopus. Viewers of the show were similarly amused, with one named Just Gill tweeting: 'I didn't even know they even made people that stupid'. With another named Andy writing: 'Monty Python Humour it's a dead octopus on The Apprentice.' Some have labelled the whole octopus saga a huge success, with Mike Cooke writing: 'The Apprentice has peaked already. Measuring an octopus. Brilliant.' While Debbie Cowley said: 'I am howlin that they just bought a real octopus.' The men's team, led by professional speaker Kayode Damali, still managed to succeed with a total spend of 764.68 euros (678) While the women's team led by Kundra - spent a total of 929.48 euros (824), with fines for errors including being late to the airport and for buying honey after the deadline The men's blunder didn't stop them from going on the win the show however. The women's team - led by Kundra - spent a total of 929.48 euros (824), with fines for errors including being late to the airport and for buying honey after the deadline. The men's team, led by professional speaker Kayode Damali, still managed to succeed with a total spend of 764.68 euros (678). It was at this point in the show that viewers picked up on another contentious point - the 'loser cafe'. It had changed. No longer was it the Bridge Cafe which featured in previous incarnations of the show. Instead it was now La Cabana Cafe - which serves both breakfast and lunch. Writing on Twitter, Caroletta said: 'As if the losers are not at the Bridge Cafe on The Apprentice'. While Carl Johnson said: 'No cheesy team names. No losers cafe. Busy task on week one. What are you doing to me The Apprentice'. Another claimed the change of cafe was 'breaking news'. The men celebrate the first victory of the series with cakes and champagne (pictured) Sarah Byrne (right) was the first candidate to be fired. The 29-year-old from Manchester, who runs an acting academy for children, faced off against Jasmine Kundra (centre) and Jackie Fast (left) in the boardroom Lord Sugar said that Byrne (pictured) is 'impatient and argumentative', and that her 'jumping in is all a bit of a problem'. He said he did not believe she has the 'capability of progressing in this process' Lord Sugar was also unimpressed with learning and development manager Kundra's efforts in the task, which saw her only buy one item herself. But it was Sarah Byrne, who had earlier argued with Kundra, accusing her of talking down to her, who was deemed the most unfit for the competition. Lord Sugar said that Byrne is 'impatient and argumentative', and that her 'jumping in is all a bit of a problem'. He said he did not believe she has the 'capability of progressing in this process'. Following her departure, Byrne said: 'I think Jasmine should have been fired over me, she talks the talk and doesn't deliver the result. 'I'm going to go out, I'm going to strive for success, and this is definitely not going to be the last of me.' The Apprentice continues next Wednesday at 9pm on BBC One. The White House, Republican senators, and the FBI were on the defense Wednesday as the bureau was on the verge of handing over rough interview summaries of its Brett Kavanaugh investigation having failed to interview accuser Christine Ford. Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California, blasted the bureau's failure to interview Ford even as Republicans said the bureau was set to hand over its investigative documents on Kavanaugh within hours. 'The White House confirmation that it will not allow the FBI to interview Dr. Blasey Ford, Judge Kavanaugh or witnesses identified by Deborah Ramirez raises serious concerns that this is not a credible investigation and begs the question: What other restrictions has the White House placed on the FBI?' Feinstein said in a statement blasted out to the media. Her charge followed a Bloomberg News report that the FBI wasn't interviewing either the accused or the prominent accuser because it doesn't have the authority from the White House to do so. Sen. Dianne Feinstein said the White House 'will not allow' the FBI to interview either Brett Kavanaugh or his accuser, Christine Blasey Ford Asked Wednesday whether the White House had blocked interviews of Kavanaugh and Ford, counselor to the president Kellyanne Conway denied the White House had blocked the bureau from talking to Ford but then also said the country had already heard from her 'for hours' implying there might not be much to gain from a further interview. No. Absolutely... the whole country heard from her last week. The whole heard from her for hours under testimony,' Conway said. Pressed on whether the FBI would be allowed to contact her, she dodged: Youd have to talk to the FBI. But the FBI has been given free range were not micromanaging anything,' Conway said. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said the parameters were up to the Senate when she was questioned Wednesday about the Bloomberg report. The FBI is preparing to hand over interview documents to Senators as early as Wednesday evening 'As we've said several times, the president's indicated that whoever the FBI deems necessary to interview, he's fine with that. But he's also asked that the Senate be the ones that determine the scope of what they need in order to make a decision on whether they vote Kavanaugh up or down,' she said. But Sanders also said senators already had an 'opportunity' to question Ford and Kavanaugh. 'I can also tell you that both Judge Kavanaugh and Dr. Ford were questioned in the most public way possible by the members of the Senate, who are ultimately the ones who have to make the determination on whether or not they vote for Judge Kavanaugh,' said Sanders. 'If they had additional questions for either one of them, they had a time and an opportunity, certainly, to ask those,' she said. Feinstein told DailyMail.com Wednesday afternoon she did not know whether Ford would get interviewed. 'She should be,' she said. Asked whether she was working with a Republican ally to ensure it, she scoffed: 'A Republican ally? Kavanaugh refused during testimony to welcome a further FBI investigation, saying he would do what the Senate required 'We dont really have a role in determining who the FBI interviews,' Feinstein said. Senior Judiciary Republican Sen. Orrin Hatch said he would have 'no objection' to Kavanaugh or Ford being interviewed, although he didn't appear to be pushing one way or the other. 'I dont know enough about it to be honest with you,' Hatch told Dailymail.com Wednesday evening. 'I do think we have enough there, but I would have no objection to a federal agent' conducting an interview,' he said. The FBI is quickly wrapping up its investigation Kavanaugh and will likely deliver its final product to senators Wednesday afternoon, a senior Republican senator said Wednesday. The bureau does not at this time plan to produce any overarching analysis or conclusions of what it finds following an interview process that began Friday after a dramatic compromise hatched in the Senate Judiciary Committee. Instead, GOP Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee said, they will simply turn over a stack of '302s,' the forms the bureau produces during background interviews. Senators will then get the chance to review the materials in a secure facility, Corker told DailyMail.com and a contingent of reporters in the Capitol. 'These are 302s. And theyre just going to be a stack of those transmitted. Thats going to be it. There never has been expected to be findings,' Corker said. 'What we think is going to happen theyre going to transmit a stack of 302s where they went and talked to people. And well go through those. Its possible that they have conflicting accounts, I hope thats not the case.' He added: 'My understanding is theyre just going to send this raw data that is those 302s that they collect. I think its likely to happen this afternoon.' News of that the investigation is in its final hours comes as attorneys for Kavanaugh accuser Christine Blasey Ford complain their client has not been contacted for an interview. Instead, they would contain rough summaries of information provided by the six or more people FBI agents have contacted, under a deal being closely monitored by the White House and GOP senators. Such 302 documents contain an FBI agent's notes on information a witness provides. They don't contain analysis comparing the statements to what another witness may have said, or otherwise offer a conclusion meaning if senators are looking for an answer on the key question of who is telling the truth, Kavanaugh or Ford, the documents very well may not provide it. 'My understanding is theyre just going to send this raw data that is those 302s that they collect. I think its likely to happen this afternoon,' said Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee, signaling that the FBI is wrapping up its background investigation The official title of the 302 form is 'Form for Reporting Information That May Become Testimony.' But in this case, the hearings, and the key witness testimony, have already occurred. Democrats demanded further investigation after Ford testified she was '100 per cent' certain Kavanaugh assaulted her at a small party decades ago, and by allying with GOP Sen. Jeff Flake of Arizona, a key vote, were able to force the one-week probe. Kavanaugh came back at last week's hearing with a defiant performance where he forcefully denied the charge and accused Democrats of a 'calculated and orchestrated political hit fueled with apparent pent-up anger about President Trump and the 2016 election, fear that has been unfairly stoked about my judicial record, revenge on behalf of the Clintons, and millions of dollars in money from outside left-wing opposition groups.' Ready for a confrontation: Michael Avenatti, the attorney for third accuser Julie Swetnick, said she had not been contacted by the FBI, while Chuck Schumer, the Senate Minority Leader made clear Tuesday he wanted to see the FBI's results published in full There are at present no plans to have the FBI dispatch someone to summarize any conclusions, although Senate Republicans may request one to appear. Corker made the comments following a closed meeting of the Senate GOP Conference where the status of the FBI's reopened probe into Kavanaugh's background was discussed. The move keeps Senate Majority Leader on track with his plan to file a motion to cut off debate on the Kavanaugh nomination on Wednesday, which would set up a critical Friday vote. The fast-moving developments came as attorneys for Kavanaugh accuser Christine Ford revealed the FBI has not spoken to the accuser who claims Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her. The 'background investigation' also came under fire from attorneys from Kavanaugh's other two accusers. 'It is inconceivable that the FBI could conduct a thorough investigation of Dr. Ford's allegations without interviewing her, Judge Kavanaugh, or the witnesses we have identified in our letters to you,' Ford's attorneys Debra Katz and Michael Bromwich wrote to the FBI's director, Christopher Wray. John Clune, a lawyer for Debbie Ramirez, the second accuser, who was questioned at the weekend, also attacked, telling Bloomberg: 'We have great concern that the FBI is not conducting - or not being permitted to conduct - a serious investigation.' Concerns: Attorneys for accusers Julie Swetnick and Debbie Ramirez have both said they are unhappy with the Senate Judiciary Committee and the FBI. Ramirez was questioned by agents but her attorney said her list of witnesses has not been acted on. Swetnick has not been contacted by the FBI. And Michael Avenatti, who represents the third accuser, Julie Swetnick, published emails he had sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee demanding that it 'take all steps to arrange an FBI interview' with her. Agents have spoken to at least six people involved in the allegations. One of those is Mark Judge, the high school friend of Kavanaugh who was accused of being in the room when the nominee allegedly tried to rape Ford, while the other is Debbie Ramirez, the second accuser. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT IN BRETT KAVANAUGH'S CONFIRMATION The Senate is currently engaged in an unlimited period of debate on Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, meaning they have the option to talk about him on the Senate floor should they so choose. When Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is ready to call for a confirmation vote, he must make a motion to end the debate, a process known as cloture. Senate rules require an intervening day to pass between when a GOP leader files for cloture and when the Senate votes on the cloture motion. So if McConnell were to file for cloture on Wednesday evening, the cloture vote would 'ripen' to allow this to happen on Friday. If he waits until Thursday morning to file for cloture, then that vote would take place Saturday. For cloture to be invoked for the nomination, 51 votes are required, under the 'nuclear option' rules change pushed through by Senate Republicans before the confirmation of Justice Neil Gorsuch during Trump's first year as president. Once the cloture is invoked, that starts the clock on the final 30 hours of debate on Kavanaugh. Senators can only vote sooner if they are able to reach unanimous agreement to do so. Once those 30 hours are up, Senators will vote on whether or not to confirm Kavanaugh. It takes a simple majority of 51 senators to confirm a nominee. But since Republicans only have a 51 seat majority, they can afford to lose only one senator if all Democrats vote no on Kavanaugh. Should it be a 50-50 vote, Vice President Mike Pence would break the tie to confirm Kavanaugh. Advertisement They have also spoken to Patrick 'P.J.' Smyth and Leland Keyser, both of whom Ford said were present, and to Tim Gaudette, whose home Kavanaugh's calendars showed he partied at on July 1, 1982, under the term 'skis'. And they have spoken to 'Squi' or 'Squee', real name Chris Garrett, who Ford said she dated and who Kavanaugh's calendar put at the July 1 party. Ford testified at length during an emotional Judiciary Committee hearing last week, where she fielded questions from Rachel Mitchell, the prosecutor hired by the all-male Senate Republicans on the panel to ask her questions. Gaudette, who lives in Denver, Colorado, where he works in healthcare and is a former chairman of the city's Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce confirmed the interview through an attorney who said he did not want to comment further. Smyth, a PWC managing director who works in Washington D.C. has not commented on the interview and had previously issued a statement saying he had no recollection of a party matching the one described by Ford. Concerns about the lack of FBI action were stoked by a lengthy statement from Ramirez's attorney, Clune, who said a list of witnesses Ramirez presented does not appear to have been acted on. 'Debbie Ramirez spoke to the FBI for over two hours this past Sunday. It was a detailed and productive interview, and the agents were clearly motivated to investigate the matter in any way they were permitted,' Clune said on Twitter. 'Ms. Ramirez identified a number of witnesses, and, at the end of the interview, her lawyers provided the FBI the names and known contact information of additional witnesses (totaling more than 20) who may have corroborating information. 'Although we do not know the status of the investigation, we are not aware of the FBI affirmatively reaching out to any of those witnesses. 'Though we appreciated the agents who responded on Sunday, we have great concern that the FBI is not conductingor not being permitted to conducta serious investigation.' The confirmation of the number of interviews led to speculation that the FBI probe could end as soon as Wednesday, which came as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said there would be a vote on Kavanaugh's nomination this week. Conway told reporters on Wednesday: This woman has testified under oath for hours for all of you to see. If now youre getting concerned about the factual inconsistencies, the memory gaps, the fact that delay has not helped her much because people from all corners of her life are coming forward when theyre telling their story,' she said, defending the president's decision to go after Ford at his Mississippi rally Tuesday night. The FBI had been given a deadline of Friday to end its new background investigation. Questioned: Tim Gaudette, whose house was where a party similar to the one described by Christine Blasey Ford took place, has been interviewed by the FBI. So has Leland Keyser, Ford's longtime friend, and P.J. Smyth, a PWC executive who was named as being at the party by Ford and is named as partying at 'Tobin's' in Kavanaugh's calendars Skis at Timmy's: Timmy is in fact Tim Gaudette, a Denver, CO, resident who works in the healthcare sector and who said through an attorney that he has been questioned by the FBI Detailed: Brett Kavanaugh furnished his 1982 calendars which showed - he said - how he spent the time in the summer which Christine Ford said was when he tried to rape her WHO THE FBI ARE KNOWN TO HAVE QUESTIONED IN THE KAVANAUGH PROBE Accuser Debbie Ramirez She says Kavanaugh exposed himself during a dorm party in their freshman year at Yale. Her attorney says she gave a list of 20 potential witnesses to the FBI Kavanaugh friend Mark Judge Man who Christine Blasey Ford says was in the room when Kavanaugh tried to rape her. His attorney said his interview spread over Monday and Tuesday. Judge, a recovering alcoholic, has denied being present at any such event and said he believed his high school friend's innocence. He also denied claims that he and Kavanaugh spiked drinks with drugs and were present during third accuser Julie Swetnick's alleged gang rape Kavanaugh friend Tim Gaudette His house was the venue for a mid-week 'skis' (beers) party on July 1, 1982, according to Kavanaugh's calendars. Ford described a party with an almost identical list of attendees. His attorney confirmed an interview but did not say what Gaudette told agents. Kavanaugh friend P.J. Smyth He was named by Ford as being at the party downstairs when she was sexually assaulted, and featured on the July 1 'skis' night list of attendees. Has previously said he did not recall such an event. Kavanaugh friend Chris 'Squi' Garrett Has been named by Ford as someone she was dating in the summer of 1982, and is on the list of attendees of the 'skis' party. His attorney says he spoke to the FBI but did not disclose his evidence. Ford friend Leland Keyser Ford said her longtime friend was at the party where she alleges she was assaulted and was downstairs at the time. Has denied any memory of such an event but Ford said Leland sent a text message saying she believed her. Advertisement However the possibility of the investigation coming to an end immediately led to the prospect of a series of new rows - over the release of the report, how senators are presented with it, and crucially, exactly who was questioned. McConnell created dissent within his own party by saying that only senators would see the FBI's report. But both John Cornyn, the second-most powerful Republican in the Senate, and South Carolina senator Lindsey Graham, who made himself a viral hero to conservatives with a fiery attack on Democrats over Kavanaugh, said that the public needed to get at least a sense of its contents. Graham said he wanted to see the full report published, while Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Minority Leader, said he wanted the same. Schumer also set up a confrontation with McConnell by saying he wanted senators to be briefed by the lead FBI agent before they voted.' 'We need to be briefed by the FBI. By the agent in charge,' Schumer told CNN. But the largest dispute of all - and the biggest political risk for McConnell - is over exactly who agents questioned. The public perception of the scale and scope of the FBI probe is now the key for Republicans wanting to get Kavanaugh nominated. McConnell is relying on the FBI investigation winning support to get the votes of the key swing senators. There are three Republicans: Lisa Murkowski (Alaska); Susan Collins (Maine); and Jeff Flake (Utah); and two Democrats: Joe Manchin (West Virginia) and Heidi Heitkamp (North Dakota). All five have said that the FBI investigation must be adequate before they decide how to vote. Collins has said publicly that Swetnick needs to be questioned for her to vote 'yes'. Public questions over whether agents failed to investigate fully could lead to at least two of them voting Kavanaugh down, which would force a tie-break, while if three vote against, he is doomed. Murkowski said she was not worried that McConnell was moving too fast on the nomination by promising a floor vote this week. Asked about McConnell's pledge to move forward with the vote, Murkowski told The Associated Press that McConnell 'talked about a vote a last week, too.' Collins was riding with Murkowski on an underground Senate train when the question was asked, and smiled and told her colleague: 'Good answer.' Murkowski and Collins both said they were satisfied with the scope and pace of the FBI's probe. However Flake said that he wanted a full investigation, while Manchin and Heitkamp did not pass comment. McConnell himself attacked Democrats for pursuing the 'politics of personal destruction' in a fiery floor speech Tuesday where he insisted the Senate would vote 'this week' on the embattled judge. 'I wish this fight could have remained in the realm of normalcy,' McConnell said, as FBI agents continued to probe sexual assault allegations against the Supreme Court nominee. 'Some chose a darker road. The politics of personal destruction were willfully unleashed,' McConnell said, aiming his fire at Democrats he accused of repeatedly 'moving the goalposts' to kill the nomination. 'The Democrats may be trying to move the goal posts every five minutes but their goal has not moved an inch. They will not be satisfied unless they have brought down Brett Kavanaugh's nomination,' said McConnell. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is trying to steer Kavanaugh's nomination through the Senate as the FBI interviews accusers and potential witnesses FBI investigators are probing Kavanaugh accusers. It is unclear the extent to which they may run down allegations of excessive drinking in high school and college Questioned: P.J. Smyth (third from right) has been questioned about his presence at a party described by Christine Blasey Ford when he was a high school friend of Brett Kavanaugh McConnell, who successfully kept Judge Merrick Garland from getting a hearing during the Obama administration of 'delay, delay, delay.' 'Who are we kidding, shot back Sen. Minority Leader Charles Schumer. 'I want to ask the leader to answer a direct question: does he believe or not believe Dr. Ford, yes or no,' said Schumer, referencing accuser Christine Blasey Ford. Schumer fumed in an angry response to McConnell delivered on the floor: 'What a double standard. How galling. 'Accusing Democrats of needlessly delaying a Supreme Court nomination is galling, is hypocritical coming from a leader who delayed the nomination of a Supreme Court justice for over 300 days until his party had a chance to win the White House. 'So no one, no American should accept his admonishments about delay. He's the master of delay,' he added. McConnell slammed the third accuser, Julie Swetnick, whose allegations were brought forward by Stormy Daniels lawyer Michael Avenatti. 'A tabloid lawyer organized a red carpet rollout for someone who wanted to accuse Judge Kavanaugh of masterminding some kind of high school drug and serial sexual assault ring,' said McConnell. 'This is how desperate some became,' said McConnell. But he vowed: 'One thing for sure: the Senate will vote on Judge Kavanaugh, here on this floor, this week. here on this floor, this week.' is planning procedural steps that could set up a vote on confirming Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court on Sunday but an ongoing FBI investigation could throw off the timing. McConnell, who demanded speedy confirmation of the Supreme Court nominee after Christine Blasey Ford first brought forward her sexual assault allegations against the nominee, must attend to the wishes of three Senate Republican holdouts: Susan Collins, Jeff Flake, and Lisa Murkowski. His latest strategy is to move to end debate midweek, which would set up a vote to cut off debate on the Kavanaugh nomination on Friday. That in turn would set up a potential Sunday confirmation vote. 'But that timetable means the FBI investigation must be complete by Wednesday, and that's where the situation becomes dicey for McConnell,' Politico reported. The FBI was on track to quickly wrap up its probe under initial direction to interview just four witnesses. But the latest direction, after an outcry from Democrats and a few Republicans, instructed agents to follow the leads they deem fit. NBC had reported the FBI was authorized only to query only four people: witnesses to the alleged assault by Christine Blasey Ford, Ford herself, and fellow accuser Deborah Ramirez, under arrangements also made with the Senate Judiciary Committee. The others were Kavanaugh friend Mark Judge and P.J. Smyth, as well as Ford friend Leland Keyser, who Ford says attended the party where Kavanaugh allegedly assaulted her. But Collins was among those arguing the FBI should be allowed to interview a third Kavanaugh accuser, Julie Swetnick, who is represented by Stormy Daniels attorney Michael Avenatti, and who claims Kavanaugh was present during a gang rape at a house party. Under an agreement reached with Flake and other holdouts, the White House gave the FBI instruction to complete its investigation by the end of the week. If the FBI does not finish its probe by Wednesday, McConnell and GOP leaders are likely to hold off until it is completed. As before, a key vote is Sen. Susan Collins of Maine. Her spokeswoman, Annie Clark, said Collins, Sen. Jeff Flake, and Sen. Lisa Murkowski 'advocated for the additional background investigation because she believed that it could help the senators evaluate the claims that have been brought to the Judiciary Committee,' 'That would include the allegations that were brought by Julie Swetnick,' she told the Portland Press Herald. Senate Judiciary Committee member Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ) (C) speaks with colleagues after a hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on September 28, 2018, on the nomination of Brett M. Kavanaugh to be an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States FBI investigators 'can determine whom they need to speak with and should follow appropriate leads. Senator Collins was encouraged by the President's statements that he would give the FBI agents the latitude they need to do their work. It makes sense to start with the four named witnesses from the hearing and then the FBI can follow any leads that it believes need to be pursued, as Senators Flake, Murkowski, and Collins indicated at the time this agreement was made,' Clark said. McConnell's more deliberative pace is a departure from late September after Ford's bombshell allegations emerged. Kavanaugh has strongly denied them. 'In the very near future, Judge Kavanaugh will be on the United States Supreme Court,' McConnell vowed at a Value Voters Summit . 'So my friends, keep the faith, don't get rattled by all of this. We're going to plow right through it and do our job,' he said. Campaigning in first-in-the-nation primary state New Hampshire, Flake got asked what would cause him to oppose Kavanaugh. He responded by pointing to 'any evidence that corroborates' assault allegations, MyChamplainValley.com reported. 'Any nominee that lies to the committee, that is disqualifying,' Flake added. He also has called for a thorough investigation. 'It does us no good to have an investigation that just gives us more cover,' he told a Forbes summit. A 13 year old boy has allegedly been raped by a man, 40, in the front yard of his home - after sharing images and personal details with him online. The alleged attack in suburban north-west Sydney only stopped when his mother ran to her son's aid - with the man running to his car and driving off. The shocking incident unfolded last Friday after the pair arranged to meet in person using a social media app. Police allege the man pushed the boy to the ground and sexually assaulted him without consent at about 6.45pm, hours after they made initial contact online. A 40-year-old man raped a 13-year-old boy in his front yard after meeting online and sharing images and personal details, police have alleged (stock photo) The boy was taken to The Children's Hospital at Westmead for examination after police were called to the scene. Detectives from the Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad and Blacktown Police Area Command commenced an investigation following a report a teen was assaulted. Following extensive investigations detectives executed a search warrant at a home at Kellyville Ridge on Sunday, where the man was arrested and taken to Riverstone Police Station. He was charged with sexual intercourse without consent. He was refused bail and appeared at Parramatta Bail Court on Monday. He was granted strict conditional bail to appear at Penrith Local Court on Thursday. Police have urged parents and guardians to speak with their children about staying safe online, particularly during the school holiday period, when they're likely to have more or unrestricted access to the internet. The Senate will receive the anticipated results of the federal bureau supplemental background investigation into Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh early Thursday. Republican lawmakers will take part in the initial review of the restricted, single copy report between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., with Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman, Chuck Grassley, to begin the analysis. By 9am, Democratic senators will have access the report, with California Senator Dianne Feinstein to start. Senators are not permitted to discuss the contents of the document. Following initial review, all 100 senators will alternate. Alternating one copy of an FBI report between senators is typical for judicial nominees, Republican aides said in a statement. The review of the 302 form will take place in a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility. Having the single copy viewed in a secure room will supposedly help to stop leaks, which are expected to hit within seconds of the document arriving in the building, if not before. On Wednesday evening, Kavanaugh faced dramatic new claims that the FBI have already warned senators about his sexual behavior in a shock letter written by Democrats. Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee said they had seen information in the six background checks already performed by the FBI into the embattled nominee which suggested problems around sexual conduct. It came as farcical details of how senators will be given the latest background check emerged. In the dramatic warning from Democrats about Kavanaugh's conduct, they declined to say what it was, saying the information they had already seen was not for public release. But referring to twin tweets from the Senate Judiciary Committee's official Twitter account which said that the FBI's previously background checks had come up clean on sexual and alcohol issues, the Democrats said that was wrong. 'While we are limited in what we can say about this background investigation in a public setting, we are compelled to state for the record that there is information in the second post that is not accurate,' they said. The second post had said 'nowhere... was there ever a whiff of ANY issue - at all - related in any way to inappropriate sexual behavior or alcohol abuse.' The Democrats went on to make clear that they were referring to sexual conduct by saying: 'Unfortunately, this is not the first instance of Committee Majority staff mischaracterizing or selectively disclosing information regarding the allegations of sexual misconduct by Judge Kavanaugh.' Why hasn't she been asked: Christine Blasey Ford's attorneys Debra Katz and Michael Bromwich wrote to the FBI warning she had not been contacted at all Already warned? Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee say there is information in already completed FBI checks which does not give Brett Kavanaugh a clean bill of health on his sexual conduct In a series of developments: Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he would press ahead with a vote this week; Democrats said they had been told there would be just one physical copy of the FBI's reports for all 100 senators to inspect, taking it in turns; Republican swing senators Jeff Flake, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski blasted President Donald Trump for mocking Christine Blasey Ford at a rally Tuesday; Questions grew over why Ford had not been interviewed by the FBI with Dianne Feinstein, the ranking Democrat on the Judiciary Committee accusing the White House of preventing an interview; Ford's attorneys said she would hand over her therapist's notes from 2012 which are said to detail her recounting the attack, but only to the FBI; Michael Avenatti, who is representing third accuser Julie Swetnick, released a sworn statement from a new anonymous accuser who says she saw Kavanaugh and Mark Judge spike drinks with Quaaludes; Senators were given police escorts amid fears of violence on Capitol Hill. The astonishing prospect that the FBI had previously warned about Kavanaugh's behavior came on a day of drama with its report widely believed to be about to be presented to the White House and the Senate. The dramatic move by Senate Democrats to suggest Kavanaugh's FBI checks were already troubling creates a new partisan division. It will also haunt Flake, Collins and Murkowski, who McConnell needs to get Kavanaugh confirmed. Democrats also unleashed complaints that Republicans had not shared properly accounts from two men - both not publicly identified - who had been in touch with the committee to say they might have been Ford's attackers. Senate Republicans shot back Wednesday night: 'Nothing in the tweet is inaccurate or misleading. The committee stands by its statement, which is completely truthful. More baseless innuendo and more false smears from Senate Democrats.' The Democrats also sought to get a green light to disclose how many people get interviewed in the latest, additional background check achieved after Democrats joined with GOP Sen. Jeff Flake to require one. Top Judiciary Democrat Dianne Feinstein issued her own angry letter Wednesday complaining that the White House was keeping the FBI from interviewing Ford and Kavanaugh. That came after growing questions over why Ford had not been interviewed by the FBI, and suggestions it was because restrictive White House guidance had told the bureau that they should simply rely on what she and Kavanaugh had told senators. At the White House Sarah Huckabee Sanders appeared to at least partially confirm that suggestion. 'I can also tell you that both Judge Kavanaugh and Dr. Ford were questioned in the most public way possible by the members of the Senate, who are ultimately the ones who have to make the determination on whether or not they vote for Judge Kavanaugh,' said Sanders. 'If they had additional questions for either one of them, they had a time and an opportunity, certainly, to ask those.' Feinstein told DailyMail.com Wednesday afternoon she did not know whether Ford would get interviewed. 'She should be,' she said. Previous background issues: Dianne Feinstein, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, signed the letter The FBI is quickly wrapping up its investigation of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. The bureau does not at this time plan to produce any overarching analysis or conclusions of what it finds following an interview process that began Friday after a dramatic compromise hatched in the Senate Judiciary Committee. Instead, GOP Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee said, they will simply turn over a stack of '302s,' the forms the bureau produces during background interviews. 'These are 302s. And they're just going to be a stack of those transmitted. That's going to be it. There never has been expected to be findings,' Corker said. 'What we think is going to happen they're going to transmit a stack of 302s where they went and talked to people. And we'll go through those. It's possible that they have conflicting accounts, I hope that's not the case.' The FBI report will be available for senators to read starting Thursday morning but Republicans are putting strict restrictions on its viewing: only one copy will be available and it will be kept in a locked safe with a log reflecting who checks it out to read it - supposedly to stop leaks. Senators have to take turns examining the findings: Republicans will get it for one hour, then Democrats the next hour with the two parties switching back and forth throughout the day, The Hill reported. And the report will be held in one of the most secure areas of the Capitol complex: the Senate SCIF (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility), which is a classified area in the basement of the Capitol Visitor's Center where lawmakers have to check their electronic devices at the door. Only senators will be able to read the details of the FBI findings into the sexual assault allegations against Kavanaugh. None of their staff will be permitted to see them a move likely done to try and cut down the odds of the findings leaking to the press as the report will not be made public. But 10 staffers on the Senate Judiciary Committee will have access to the report, which is in paper form only - there are no PDFs or emails of it, NBC News reported, and those staff will be available to brief senators on it should they not have time to read it for themselves. How they will be stopped from simply photographing it on their iPhones is unclear. It is also unclear exactly what secrecy level it will have. Durbin complained about conditions Republicans placed on the report. 'Get this one copy! For the United States Senate,' he told The Hill. 'That's what we were told. And we were also that we would be given one hour for the Dems, one hour for the Republicans. Alternating.' If all 100 members of the Senate decide to read the report and it takes each of them 30 minutes to do so, that would add up to 50 hours for all senators to look it over. 'Do the math,' said Durbin. 'That's a lot of time.' DEMOCRATS' ASTONISHING ATTACK: 'FBI AREADY SAY KAVANAUGH'S SEXUAL CONDUCT IS QUESTIONABLE' This is the full text of the letter from Democratic senators on the Judiciary Committee to the Republican leader, Chuck Grassley. The letter was signed by Dianne Feinstein, Dick Durbin, Patrick Leahy, Sheldon Whitehouse, Richard Blumenthal, Mazie Hirono, Cory Cooker and Kamala Harris Dear Chairman Grassley: We are deeply concerned about the Committee Majority's mishandling of confidential background investigation information and urge you to work with us to resolve this matter on a bipartisan basis. Yesterday the Senate Judiciary Twitter account (@senjudiciary), which is controlled by the Republican Majority staff, posted information about Judge Kavanaugh that is not accurate and that must be immediately corrected. The Majority tweeted the following at 12:10 PM EST on Tuesday: Each of us reviewed the confidential background investigation of Judge Kavanaugh before the hearing. While we are limited in what we can say about this background investigation in a public setting, we are compelled to state for the record that there is information in the second post that is not accurate. We urge you to ensure that these Twitter posts are promptly corrected. It is troubling that the Committee Majority has characterized information from Judge Kavanaugh's confidential background investigation on Twitter, as that information is confidential and not subject to public release. If the Committee Majority is going to violate that confidentiality and characterize this background investigation publicly, you must at least be honest about it. Unfortunately, this is not the first instance of Committee Majority staff mischaracterizing or selectively disclosing information regarding the allegations of sexual misconduct by Judge Kavanaugh. While Republican Senators have falsely claimed without evidence that Committee Minority staff leaked Dr. Ford's letter alleging that Judge Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her, Committee Majority staff have publicly claimed that you possess evidence undermining the allegations while only selectively disclosing that evidence. For example, the Majority has released an 'investigative timeline' that editorializes about information in the Majority's possession in a blatant effort to undermine the credibility of the women who have come forward. Despite Dr. Ford's unequivocal sworn statement that she is '100 percent' certain that it was Judge Kavanaugh who attacked her, the Majority's 'timeline' describes statements from two unidentified men who purportedly claim they, not Judge Kavanaugh, assaulted Dr. Ford; however, the Majority has not shared these alleged anonymous statements with the Minority despite repeated requests. This selective public disclosure sends a clear message from Senate Republicans to sexual assault survivors: if you have the courage to step forward, we will attack your credibility. Weare concerned that there may be similar effort to publicly mischaracterize or selectively leak, for partisan purposes, the results of the FBI's ongoing supplemental background investigation into Judge Kavanaugh. To avoid this possibility, we urge you to call for a full Senate briefing with the FBI onthe results of their re-opened investigation so that all Senators hear the same information and have the same opportunity to question the FBI before any floor vote on the Kavanaugh nomination. We also urge you to meet with Minority members of the Judiciary Committee in advance of that briefing to establish bipartisan ground rules for public discussion of the information provided by the FBI. For example, we assume that since the Majority has already tweeted publicly about how many people were interviewed for Kavanaugh's previous background investigations, the Majority also will permit the public disclosure of the number of people interviewed by the FBI for the supplemental background investigation. It is critical to the integrity of the United States Senate and the Supreme Court that the American people have confidence in the FBI's supplemental background investigation of Judge Kavanaugh. There has long been a tradition of bipartisan cooperation regarding the handling of confidential background information on judicial nominees. We look forward to working with you to restore this bipartisan tradition. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Sincerely Advertisement News of that the investigation is in its final hours comes as attorneys for Kavanaugh accuser Christine Blasey Ford complain their client has not been contacted for an interview. Instead, they would contain rough summaries of information provided by the six or more people FBI agents have contacted, under a deal being closely monitored by the White House and GOP senators. Such 302 documents contain an FBI agent's notes on information a witness provides. They don't contain analysis comparing the statements to what another witness may have said, or otherwise offer a conclusion meaning if senators are looking for an answer on the key question of who is telling the truth, Kavanaugh or Ford, the documents very well may not provide it. 'My understanding is they're just going to send this raw data that is those 302s that they collect. I think it's likely to happen this afternoon,' said Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee, signaling that the FBI is wrapping up its background investigation Democrats are criticizing a move made by Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee where Sen. Chuck Grassley (pictured above) is chairman The official title of the 302 form is 'Form for Reporting Information That May Become Testimony.' But in this case, the hearings, and the key witness testimony, have already occurred. Democrats demanded further investigation after Ford testified she was '100 per cent' certain Kavanaugh assaulted her at a small party decades ago, and by allying with GOP Sen. Jeff Flake of Arizona, a key vote, were able to force the one-week probe. Kavanaugh came back at last week's hearing with a defiant performance where he forcefully denied the charge and accused Democrats of a 'calculated and orchestrated political hit fueled with apparent pent-up anger about President Trump and the 2016 election, fear that has been unfairly stoked about my judicial record, revenge on behalf of the Clintons, and millions of dollars in money from outside left-wing opposition groups.' Ready for a confrontation: Michael Avenatti, the attorney for third accuser Julie Swetnick, said she had not been contacted by the FBI, while Chuck Schumer, the Senate Minority Leader made clear Tuesday he wanted to see the FBI's results published in full There are at present no plans to have the FBI dispatch someone to summarize any conclusions, although Senate Republicans may request one to appear. Corker made the comments following a closed meeting of the Senate GOP Conference where the status of the FBI's reopened probe into Kavanaugh's background was discussed. The move keeps Senate Majority Leader on track with his plan to file a motion to cut off debate on the Kavanaugh nomination on Wednesday, which would set up a critical Friday vote. The fast-moving developments came as attorneys for Kavanaugh accuser Christine Ford revealed the FBI has not spoken to the accuser who claims Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her. The 'background investigation' also came under fire from attorneys from Kavanaugh's other two accusers. 'It is inconceivable that the FBI could conduct a thorough investigation of Dr. Ford's allegations without interviewing her, Judge Kavanaugh, or the witnesses we have identified in our letters to you,' Ford's attorneys Debra Katz and Michael Bromwich wrote to the FBI's director, Christopher Wray. John Clune, a lawyer for Debbie Ramirez, the second accuser, who was questioned at the weekend, also attacked, telling Bloomberg: 'We have great concern that the FBI is not conducting - or not being permitted to conduct - a serious investigation.' And Michael Avenatti, who represents the third accuser, Julie Swetnick, published emails he had sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee demanding that it 'take all steps to arrange an FBI interview' with her. Agents have spoken to at least six people involved in the allegations. One of those is Mark Judge, the high school friend of Kavanaugh who was accused of being in the room when the nominee allegedly tried to rape Ford, while the other is Debbie Ramirez, the second accuser. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT IN BRETT KAVANAUGH'S CONFIRMATION The Senate is currently engaged in an unlimited period of debate on Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, meaning they have the option to talk about him on the Senate floor should they so choose. When Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is ready to call for a confirmation vote, he must make a motion to end the debate, a process known as cloture. Senate rules require an intervening day to pass between when a GOP leader files for cloture and when the Senate votes on the cloture motion. So if McConnell were to file for cloture on Wednesday evening, the cloture vote would 'ripen' to allow this to happen on Friday. If he waits until Thursday morning to file for cloture, then that vote would take place Saturday. For cloture to be invoked for the nomination, 51 votes are required, under the 'nuclear option' rules change pushed through by Senate Republicans before the confirmation of Justice Neil Gorsuch during Trump's first year as president. Once the cloture is invoked, that starts the clock on the final 30 hours of debate on Kavanaugh. Senators can only vote sooner if they are able to reach unanimous agreement to do so. Once those 30 hours are up, Senators will vote on whether or not to confirm Kavanaugh. It takes a simple majority of 51 senators to confirm a nominee. But since Republicans only have a 51 seat majority, they can afford to lose only one senator if all Democrats vote no on Kavanaugh. Should it be a 50-50 vote, Vice President Mike Pence would break the tie to confirm Kavanaugh. Advertisement They have also spoken to Patrick 'P.J.' Smyth and Leland Keyser, both of whom Ford said were present, and to Tim Gaudette, whose home Kavanaugh's calendars showed he partied at on July 1, 1982, under the term 'skis'. And they have spoken to 'Squi' or 'Squee', real name Chris Garrett, who Ford said she dated and who Kavanaugh's calendar put at the July 1 party. Ford testified at length during an emotional Judiciary Committee hearing last week, where she fielded questions from Rachel Mitchell, the prosecutor hired by the all-male Senate Republicans on the panel to ask her questions. Gaudette, who lives in Denver, Colorado, where he works in healthcare and is a former chairman of the city's Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce confirmed the interview through an attorney who said he did not want to comment further. Smyth, a PWC managing director who works in Washington D.C. has not commented on the interview and had previously issued a statement saying he had no recollection of a party matching the one described by Ford. Concerns about the lack of FBI action were stoked by a lengthy statement from Ramirez's attorney, Clune, who said a list of witnesses Ramirez presented does not appear to have been acted on. 'Debbie Ramirez spoke to the FBI for over two hours this past Sunday. It was a detailed and productive interview, and the agents were clearly motivated to investigate the matter in any way they were permitted,' Clune said on Twitter. 'Ms. Ramirez identified a number of witnesses, and, at the end of the interview, her lawyers provided the FBI the names and known contact information of additional witnesses (totaling more than 20) who may have corroborating information. 'Although we do not know the status of the investigation, we are not aware of the FBI affirmatively reaching out to any of those witnesses. 'Though we appreciated the agents who responded on Sunday, we have great concern that the FBI is not conductingor not being permitted to conducta serious investigation.' The confirmation of the number of interviews led to speculation that the FBI probe could end as soon as Wednesday, which came as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said there would be a vote on Kavanaugh's nomination this week. Counselor to the president Kellyanne Conway said Wednesday the White House had in no way blocked the FBI from talking to Ford, but also said the country had already heard from her 'for hours.' 'No. Absolutely... the whole country heard from her last week. The whole heard from her for hours under testimony,' Conway said. Pressed on whether the FBI would be allowed to contact her, she dodged: 'You'd have to talk to the FBI. But the FBI has been given free range we're not micromanaging anything,' Conway added. 'This woman has testified under oath for hours for all of you to see. If now you're getting concerned about the factual inconsistencies, the memory gaps, the fact that delay has not helped her much because people from all corners of her life are coming forward when they're telling their story,' she said, defending the president's decision to go after Ford at his Mississippi rally Tuesday night. The FBI had been given a deadline of Friday to end its new background investigation. Questioned: Tim Gaudette, whose house was where a party similar to the one described by Christine Blasey Ford took place, has been interviewed by the FBI. So has Leland Keyser, Ford's longtime friend, and P.J. Smyth, a PWC executive who was named as being at the party by Ford and is named as partying at 'Tobin's' in Kavanaugh's calendars Skis at Timmy's: Timmy is in fact Tim Gaudette, a Denver, CO, resident who works in the healthcare sector and who said through an attorney that he has been questioned by the FBI Detailed: Brett Kavanaugh furnished his 1982 calendars which showed - he said - how he spent the time in the summer which Christine Ford said was when he tried to rape her WHO THE FBI ARE KNOWN TO HAVE QUESTIONED IN THE KAVANAUGH PROBE Accuser Debbie Ramirez She says Kavanaugh exposed himself during a dorm party in their freshman year at Yale. Her attorney says she gave a list of 20 potential witnesses to the FBI Kavanaugh friend Mark Judge Man who Christine Blasey Ford says was in the room when Kavanaugh tried to rape her. His attorney said his interview spread over Monday and Tuesday. Judge, a recovering alcoholic, has denied being present at any such event and said he believed his high school friend's innocence. He also denied claims that he and Kavanaugh spiked drinks with drugs and were present during third accuser Julie Swetnick's alleged gang rape Kavanaugh friend Tim Gaudette His house was the venue for a mid-week 'skis' (beers) party on July 1, 1982, according to Kavanaugh's calendars. Ford described a party with an almost identical list of attendees. His attorney confirmed an interview but did not say what Gaudette told agents. Kavanaugh friend P.J. Smyth He was named by Ford as being at the party downstairs when she was sexually assaulted, and featured on the July 1 'skis' night list of attendees. Has previously said he did not recall such an event. Kavanaugh friend Chris 'Squi' Garrett Has been named by Ford as someone she was dating in the summer of 1982, and is on the list of attendees of the 'skis' party. His attorney says he spoke to the FBI but did not disclose his evidence. Ford friend Leland Keyser Ford said her longtime friend was at the party where she alleges she was assaulted and was downstairs at the time. Has denied any memory of such an event but Ford said Leland sent a text message saying she believed her. Advertisement However the possibility of the investigation coming to an end immediately led to the prospect of a series of new rows - over the release of the report, how senators are presented with it, and crucially, exactly who was questioned. McConnell created dissent within his own party by saying that only senators would see the FBI's report. But both John Cornyn, the second-most powerful Republican in the Senate, and South Carolina senator Lindsey Graham, who made himself a viral hero to conservatives with a fiery attack on Democrats over Kavanaugh, said that the public needed to get at least a sense of its contents. Graham said he wanted to see the full report published, while Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Minority Leader, said he wanted the same. Schumer also set up a confrontation with McConnell by saying he wanted senators to be briefed by the lead FBI agent before they voted.' 'We need to be briefed by the FBI. By the agent in charge,' Schumer told CNN. But the largest dispute of all - and the biggest political risk for McConnell - is over exactly who agents questioned. The public perception of the scale and scope of the FBI probe is now the key for Republicans wanting to get Kavanaugh nominated. McConnell is relying on the FBI investigation winning support to get the votes of the key swing senators. There are three Republicans: Lisa Murkowski (Alaska); Susan Collins (Maine); and Jeff Flake (Utah); and two Democrats: Joe Manchin (West Virginia) and Heidi Heitkamp (North Dakota). All five have said that the FBI investigation must be adequate before they decide how to vote. Collins has said publicly that Swetnick needs to be questioned for her to vote 'yes'. Public questions over whether agents failed to investigate fully could lead to at least two of them voting Kavanaugh down, which would force a tie-break, while if three vote against, he is doomed. Murkowski said she was not worried that McConnell was moving too fast on the nomination by promising a floor vote this week. Asked about McConnell's pledge to move forward with the vote, Murkowski told The Associated Press that McConnell 'talked about a vote a last week, too.' Collins was riding with Murkowski on an underground Senate train when the question was asked, and smiled and told her colleague: 'Good answer.' Murkowski and Collins both said they were satisfied with the scope and pace of the FBI's probe. However Flake said that he wanted a full investigation, while Manchin and Heitkamp did not pass comment. McConnell himself attacked Democrats for pursuing the 'politics of personal destruction' in a fiery floor speech Tuesday where he insisted the Senate would vote 'this week' on the embattled judge. 'I wish this fight could have remained in the realm of normalcy,' McConnell said, as FBI agents continued to probe sexual assault allegations against the Supreme Court nominee. 'Some chose a darker road. The politics of personal destruction were willfully unleashed,' McConnell said, aiming his fire at Democrats he accused of repeatedly 'moving the goalposts' to kill the nomination. 'The Democrats may be trying to move the goal posts every five minutes but their goal has not moved an inch. They will not be satisfied unless they have brought down Brett Kavanaugh's nomination,' said McConnell. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is trying to steer Kavanaugh's nomination through the Senate as the FBI interviews accusers and potential witnesses Questioned: P.J. Smyth (third from right) has been questioned about his presence at a party described by Christine Blasey Ford when he was a high school friend of Brett Kavanaugh McConnell, who successfully kept Judge Merrick Garland from getting a hearing during the Obama administration of 'delay, delay, delay.' 'Who are we kidding, shot back Sen. Minority Leader Charles Schumer. 'I want to ask the leader to answer a direct question: does he believe or not believe Dr. Ford, yes or no,' said Schumer, referencing accuser Christine Blasey Ford. Schumer fumed in an angry response to McConnell delivered on the floor: 'What a double standard. How galling. 'Accusing Democrats of needlessly delaying a Supreme Court nomination is galling, is hypocritical coming from a leader who delayed the nomination of a Supreme Court justice for over 300 days until his party had a chance to win the White House. 'So no one, no American should accept his admonishments about delay. He's the master of delay,' he added. McConnell slammed the third accuser, Julie Swetnick, whose allegations were brought forward by Stormy Daniels lawyer Michael Avenatti. 'A tabloid lawyer organized a red carpet rollout for someone who wanted to accuse Judge Kavanaugh of masterminding some kind of high school drug and serial sexual assault ring,' said McConnell. 'This is how desperate some became,' said McConnell. But he vowed: 'One thing for sure: the Senate will vote on Judge Kavanaugh, here on this floor, this week. here on this floor, this week.' is planning procedural steps that could set up a vote on confirming Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court on Sunday but an ongoing FBI investigation could throw off the timing. McConnell, who demanded speedy confirmation of the Supreme Court nominee after Christine Blasey Ford first brought forward her sexual assault allegations against the nominee, must attend to the wishes of three Senate Republican holdouts: Susan Collins, Jeff Flake, and Lisa Murkowski. His latest strategy is to move to end debate midweek, which would set up a vote to cut off debate on the Kavanaugh nomination on Friday. That in turn would set up a potential Sunday confirmation vote. 'But that timetable means the FBI investigation must be complete by Wednesday, and that's where the situation becomes dicey for McConnell,' Politico reported. The FBI was on track to quickly wrap up its probe under initial direction to interview just four witnesses. But the latest direction, after an outcry from Democrats and a few Republicans, instructed agents to follow the leads they deem fit. NBC had reported the FBI was authorized only to query only four people: witnesses to the alleged assault by Christine Blasey Ford, Ford herself, and fellow accuser Deborah Ramirez, under arrangements also made with the Senate Judiciary Committee. The others were Kavanaugh friend Mark Judge and P.J. Smyth, as well as Ford friend Leland Keyser, who Ford says attended the party where Kavanaugh allegedly assaulted her. But Collins was among those arguing the FBI should be allowed to interview a third Kavanaugh accuser, Julie Swetnick, who is represented by Stormy Daniels attorney Michael Avenatti, and who claims Kavanaugh was present during a gang rape at a house party. Under an agreement reached with Flake and other holdouts, the White House gave the FBI instruction to complete its investigation by the end of the week. If the FBI does not finish its probe by Wednesday, McConnell and GOP leaders are likely to hold off until it is completed. As before, a key vote is Sen. Susan Collins of Maine. Her spokeswoman, Annie Clark, said Collins, Sen. Jeff Flake, and Sen. Lisa Murkowski 'advocated for the additional background investigation because she believed that it could help the senators evaluate the claims that have been brought to the Judiciary Committee,' 'That would include the allegations that were brought by Julie Swetnick,' she told the Portland Press Herald. Senate Judiciary Committee member Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ) (C) speaks with colleagues after a hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on September 28, 2018, on the nomination of Brett M. Kavanaugh to be an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States FBI investigators 'can determine whom they need to speak with and should follow appropriate leads. Senator Collins was encouraged by the President's statements that he would give the FBI agents the latitude they need to do their work. It makes sense to start with the four named witnesses from the hearing and then the FBI can follow any leads that it believes need to be pursued, as Senators Flake, Murkowski, and Collins indicated at the time this agreement was made,' Clark said. McConnell's more deliberative pace is a departure from late September after Ford's bombshell allegations emerged. Kavanaugh has strongly denied them. 'In the very near future, Judge Kavanaugh will be on the United States Supreme Court,' McConnell vowed at a Value Voters Summit . 'So my friends, keep the faith, don't get rattled by all of this. We're going to plow right through it and do our job,' he said. Campaigning in first-in-the-nation primary state New Hampshire, Flake got asked what would cause him to oppose Kavanaugh. He responded by pointing to 'any evidence that corroborates' assault allegations, MyChamplainValley.com reported. 'Any nominee that lies to the committee, that is disqualifying,' Flake added. He also has called for a thorough investigation. 'It does us no good to have an investigation that just gives us more cover,' he told a Forbes summit. A police officer has been shot dead and six other law enforcers injured in a mass shooting in Florence, South Carolina. Terrence Carraway, 52, who was with the Florence County Sheriff's Department for 30 years, succumbed to his injuries Wednesday night. Eight people were shot total during the incident - the officers and a 20-year-old man. The extent of the injuries of the other four was not immediately known. The unnamed male also held children hostage while he opened fire, police said in a new statement. 'Fire was being shot all over,' Florence County Sheriff Kenney Boone said in a statement. Officers first responded to the scene when calls came in from neighbors reporting they heard gunfire inside the multi-million dollar home. Shortly after the first team of officers arrived, an officer was shot around 4.55pm, at which point first responders were called to the scene. The shooter was in custody by 5.30pm after a shoot out that lasted over 30 minutes. Scroll down for video Officer Terrence Carraway, who was with the Florence County Sheriff's Department for 30 years, succumbed to his injuries Wednesday night Seven South Carolina police officers have been shot, one fatally, near Florence. The gunman is seen being taken into custody above The extent of the remaining injuries are unknown Video courtesy of WMBF News The official account of Florence County Emergency Management tweeted: 'The active shooting situation is over and the suspect is in custody. 'We are asking everyone to stay away from Vintage Place as there is still an active crime investigation in progress.' President Donald Trump tweeted Wednesday night: 'My thoughts and prayers are with the Florence County Sheriffs Office and the Florence Police Department tonight, in South Carolina. 'We are forever grateful for what our Law Enforcement Officers do 24/7/365.' Dispatch obtained by DailyMail.com reveals that a call went out to all first responders asking that they report to the residence after an officer was shot. There was also a warning that the shooter was behind the residence and still firing at that time, with the dispatcher urging those headed to the scene to use precaution. South Carolina state troopers gather at the scene where several law enforcement officers were shot Officers first responded to the scene when calls came in from neighbors reporting they heard gunfire inside the multi-million dollar home President Donald Trump tweeted Wednesday night: 'My thoughts and prayers are with the Florence County Sheriffs Office and the Florence Police Department tonight, in South Carolina. We are forever grateful for what our Law Enforcement Officers do 24/7/365' The nearby West Florence High School reportedly went into lockdown. The scene is pictured above According to Chief Deputy Glen Kirby, with the Florence County Sheriff's Office, the suspect surrendered to deputies after talking with a negotiator. The surviving officers and the shooter are now all being treated at McLeod Regional Medical Center. The nearby West Florence High School reportedly went into lockdown. State Rep. Jay Jordan, R-Florence spoke at the South Carolina State House asking that everyone take a moment of silence for the police officers. According to Chief Deputy Glen Kirby, with the Florence County Sheriff's Office, the suspect surrendered to deputies after talking with a negotiator and has been taken to the hospital for treatment The impassioned fight over Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to the Supreme Court has led to heightened security at the Capitol, with some senators using police escorts to shield them from protesters. United States Capitol Police have arrested dozens of protesters in recent days and stepped up their presence in Capitol hallways. Some Republican senators have expressed unease over protesters who have confronted them at their Senate offices, restaurants, airports and even their homes. Republicans discussed security matters behind closed doors earlier this week at a private lunch. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said in a floor speech Wednesday that senators will not be intimidated from doing their jobs, declaring: 'There is no chance in the world they're going to scare us out of doing our duty.' McConnell took to the Senate floor Wednesday morning to rail against the delays in confirming Kavanaugh, including protesters who have confronted senators, and slamming Democrats, who he claims are moving the goalposts on President Donald Trump's nominee. 'I want to make it clear to these people who are chasing my members down the hall here, or harassing them at the airport or going to their homes, we will not be intimidated by these people,' he said. More uniformed officers have been visible in the Senate amid mounting protests, and senators have been escorted by uniformed officers. Elevators have become potential flashpoints, with Jeff Flake being confronted in one last Friday in one of the most dramatic twists in the Kavanaugh saga. On Wednesday Cory Booker and Collins were guarded in one on their way from the Senate subway - and Lindsey Graham said he had been confronted too. 'This is dangerous. I had somebody that wouldnt let an elevator shut. An Iraq War veteran. I appreciate his service, but I just have a different opinion of Judge Kavanaugh. I tried to make that clear,' Graham said. Closely guarded: Uniformed Capitol Police officers were deployed to guard key swing senator Susan Collins, whose office had previously been targeted Flashpoint: Elevators have been used by protesters to corner senators and Cory Booker and Susan Collins were escorted off one by a Capitol Police officer to prevent that scenario on Wednesday Police presence: Security has been tightened in the Senate because of the presence of protesters with uniformed officers seen guarding Lisa Collins (left) and Mitch McConnell (right) Watching brief: Republican Kansas senator Pat Roberts was interviewed with an officer looking on Ready for protests: Officers equipped with quick cuffs were on patrol in the hallways of the Senate in case of large numbers of protesters Keeping watch: The Senate subway had an officer on board when Susan Collins traveled in it Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer challenged McConnell to 'man up' and call a vote 'There's no chance in the world they're gonna scare us out of doing our duty. I don't care how many members they chase, how many people they harass here in the halls. I want to make one thing perfectly clear, we will not be intimidated by these people,' McConnell said. Protestors have filled the hallways of the Senate office buildings as Kavanaugh's confirmation has struggled toward the finish line amid questions about his drinking habits and allegations of sexual assault. Republican Senators Jeff Flake, Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, Ted Cruz, and Lindsey Graham are among those who have been target by victims of sexual assault who are protesting Kavanaugh's confirmation. On Friday, a moment when two female protestors trapped Flake in an elevator and berated him after he announced he was voting to confirm Kavanugh went viral and ultimately resulted in Flake calling for a delay in the confirmation vote in order for the FBI to investigate the allegations against Kavanaugh. One of the women shouted to Flake, through tears: 'Don't look away from me! Look at me and tell me that it doesn't matter what happens to me.' This is the dramatic moment that two female protesters, and alleged rape victims, trapped Sen. Jeff Flake in an elevator Demonstrators surrounded Ted Cruz and his wife Heidi in Fiola, an Italian restaurant, shouting 'We believe survivors', which prompted them to leave on Monday night Cruz was also confronted in an elevator in the Senate and chased out of Washington D.C. restaurant last week. Demonstrators ambushed Cruz and his wife at Fiola, an Italian restaurant near the White House, and chanted: 'We believe survivors! We believe survivors!' Protestors also gathered outside the offices of multiple senators to urge them to listen to the stories of sexual assault survivors. Actress Alyssa Milano was among those leading the protests and was seen crying at some of the stories. McConnell claimed the mass protests were 'all part of the organized effort to delay, obstruct and intimidate.' Kavanaugh's confirmation has been in limbo since an FBI investigation was ordered on Friday to look into the multiple sexual assault allegations against him. Christine Blasey Ford has accused Kavanaugh of pinning her to a bed, trying to rip off her clothes and covering her mouth when she screamed while they two of them were teenagers at a party in the 1980s. Debra Ramirez claims Kavanaugh exposed himself to her during a dorm party at Yale University, thrust his penis in her face and forced her to touch it when she pushed him away. Julie Swetnick claims Kavanaugh and his Georgetown Prep pal Mark Judge were part of a group of guys who drugged and gang raped women. Kavanaugh has denied all allegations. Actress Alyssa Milano led protesters in the Senate on Wednesday against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh Activists hold signs up outside the office of Maine Senator Susan M. Collins in support of Kavanaugh's chief accuser Christine Blasey Ford The FBI had been given a deadline of Friday to end its new background investigation although there is speculation agents could be done as soon as Wednesday. But on Wednesday Ford's attorneys revealed she and witnesses she has offered have not been spoken to by the FBI. Agents have spoken to at least six people involved in the allegations. One of those is Mark Judge, the high school friend of Kavanaugh who was accused of being in the room when the nominee allegedly tried to rape Ford, while the other is Debbie Ramirez, the second accuser. They have also spoken to Patrick 'P.J.' Smyth and Leland Keyser, both of whom Ford said were present, and to Tim Gaudette, whose home Kavanaugh's calendars showed he partied at on July 1, 1982, under the term 'skis'. And they have spoken to 'Squi' or 'Squee', real name Chris Garrett, who Ford said she dated and who Kavanaugh's calendar put at the July 1 party. Questioned: Tim Gaudette, whose house was where a party similar to the one described by Christine Blasey Ford took place, has been interviewed by the FBI. So has Leland Keyser, Ford's longtime friend, and P.J. Smyth, a PWC executive who was named as being at the party by Ford and is named as partying at 'Tobin's' in Kavanaugh's calendars The FBI has interviewed Mark Judge and completed its questioning Tuesday, his attorney said McConnell has been expressing his frustration all week with the delays in getting Kavanaugh on the high court. Republicans originally wanted the conservative Kavanaugh - who was nominated to place retiring swing-vote Justice Anthony Kennedy - on the court by the time it began its new session on October 1. On Wednesday, after railing against the protestors, McConnell then turned his fury toward Democrats, repeating his accusation that they are trying to move the goalposts on confirming Kavanaugh. 'Democrats may be trying to move the goal posts every five minutes, but their goal has not moved an inch. They will not be satisfied unless they have brought down Judge Kavanaugh's nomination,' McConnell said. 'If my friends across the aisle had their way the goalposts would move the vote to another time zone,' he noted. He also dismissed Democrats' concerns about Kavanaugh's judicial temperament after his angry testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee last Thursday. Democrats are saying he's disqualified because he got 'a little testy,' McConnell said, 'after they dragged him through the mud.' 'I don't want to meet he man or woman who wouldn't be frustrated,' he added. 'Democrats have made it clear they will never ever be satisfied. Not ever,' he raged. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT IN BRETT KAVANAUGH'S CONFIRMATION The Senate is currently engaged in an unlimited period of debate on Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, meaning they have the option to talk about him on the Senate floor should they so choose. When Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is ready to call for a confirmation vote, he must make a motion to end the debate, a process known as cloture. Senate rules require an intervening day to pass between when a GOP leader files for cloture and when the Senate votes on the cloture motion. So if McConnell were to file for cloture on Wednesday evening, the cloture vote would 'ripen' to allow this to happen on Friday. If he waits until Thursday morning to file for cloture, then that vote would take place Saturday. For cloture to be invoked for the nomination, 51 votes are required, under the 'nuclear option' rules change pushed through by Senate Republicans before the confirmation of Justice Neil Gorsuch during Trump's first year as president. Once the cloture is invoked, that starts the clock on the final 30 hours of debate on Kavanaugh. Senators can only vote sooner if they are able to reach unanimous agreement to do so. Once those 30 hours are up, Senators will vote on whether or not to confirm Kavanaugh. It takes a simple majority of 51 senators to confirm a nominee. But since Republicans only have a 51 seat majority, they can afford to lose only one senator if all Democrats vote no on Kavanaugh. Should it be a 50-50 vote, Vice President Mike Pence would break the tie to confirm Kavanaugh. Advertisement McConnell then repeated his vow to hold a vote on Kavanaugh this week. 'The Senate will vote on this nomination this week,' he said and repeated his message in case it wasn't clear: 'The Senate will vote on this nomination this week.' McConnell's double down on Trump's Supreme Court nominee came amid uncertainty about the timing of the FBI investigation into sexual assault allegations against Kavanaugh, which he has denied. It remains unclear when the bureau will finish its probe and when senators will see the results. He called Kavanaugh one of 'the most impressive' nominees in history, citing his 'sterling academic credentials,' his work on the bench and his 'proven commitment' to fairness. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer then went onto the floor and challenged McConnell to 'man up,' call a vote and stop blaming a delay on Democrats that was actually caused by GOP senators. 'Be a man - man up and say it's your decision and not ours,' Schumer said. (left to right) Christine Ford, Deborah Ramirez and Julie Swetnick have all accused Judge Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct; he has flatly denied all the charges Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation is in limbo As Senate leader, McConnell controls the Senate floor schedule and when votes are called. He delayed a Kavanaugh vote by a week after three key Republican senators - Jeff Flake, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski - said they wanted an FBI investigation into the sexual assault allegations. Schumer claimed McConnell was being hypocritical to blame Democrats on a delay when he was he one that held up the confirmation on Merrick Garland, President Barack Obama's Supreme Court nominee who never got a vote in the Senate. 'It is galling, appalling to hear day after day the Majority Leader get on his high horse about delay, when he almost invented the word when it comes to judicial nominations,' Schumer said. 'To say Democrats are causing delay are coming from the same man who delayed the nomination of Supreme Court justice Merrick Garland for over 300 days without a shrug of his shoulders? Give me a break,' he noted. Republican Senators Jeff Flake, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski are undecided votes Democratic Senators Heidi Heitkamp and Joe Manchin are also undecided votes Schumer pointed out McConnell as 'the sole power' to determine when Kavanaugh is voted on and noted he was 'so tempted to use the L word but he's my friend.' He also called on McConnell to hold an all-senators briefing with the FBI agents who investigated Kavanaugh and repeated Democrats' call to make the findings public. 'This is not the usual practice but it's been done in the past,' Schumer noted of releasing the report. McConnell can call for a vote at anytime and will soon need to start the complicated procedural process required to bring Kavanaugh to a final vote this week. He must first make a motion to end the debate on Kavanaugh, a process known as cloture. But Senate rules require an intervening day to pass between when a GOP leader files for cloture and when the Senate votes on the cloture motion. In order to pass, cloture requires 51 votes. If it passes, that starts the clock on the final 30 hours of debate on Kavanaugh. Once those 30 hours are up, Senators will vote on whether or not to confirm him. It takes a simple majority of 51 senators to confirm. But Republicans only have 51 seats, meaning the party can only lose one senator if all Democrats vote no on Kavanaugh (letting Vice President Mike Pence be the tie breaking vote). And it's uncertain McConnell has the 50 senators he needs. Flake, Collins and Murkowski have been mum on their final vote, saying they want to see the outcome of the FBI investigation. Only two Democratic senators - Heidi Heitkamp and Joe Manchin - are undecided. All other Democrats have said they will vote no. A security guard at the Pennsylvania compound of a Turkish-born Muslim cleric fired a shot near an 'unwanted person' outside the gate, state police said Wednesday. The suspected intruder fled the scene, and troopers were unable to find him. Police were called to Fethullah Gulen's longtime home in the Pocono Mountains after a security guard fired a 'warning shot in the air' around 8.30am, according to a statement from the New York-based Alliance for Shared Values, a group that promotes Gulen's philosophies. The man, 'who appeared to be armed, attempted to enter the retreat center,' and the guard responded by firing the shot, the statement said. No injuries were reported. Police were called to Fethullah Gulen's (above) longtime home in the Pocono Mountains after a security guard fired a 'warning shot in the air' around 8.30am An aerial view of Golden Generation Worship and Retreat Center, Gulen's private Poconos compound, is seen in a file photo. A guard says an armed man tried to infiltrate the facility State police said they are continuing to investigate. 'Just one shot was fired,' said Alp Aslandogan, Gulen's media adviser. 'The person disappeared. The incident is over as far as we're concerned.' Gulen was inside his residence on the compound at the time. 'His response was that the authorities should be informed and everybody should cooperate fully with the investigation to find out what happened,' Aslandogan said. Turkey blames Gulen and his supporters for a July 2016 military coup attempt that killed 250 people. Gulen denies the allegations. Turkey has long demanded the cleric's extradition so he can stand trial, but Washington has told Turkey it must present convincing evidence for any extradition proceeding to go forward. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan talks at a ceremony in Ankara, Turkey on Wednesday. Gulen's supporters claim that he has long plotted to kidnap the exiled spiritual leader Gulen, who's in his late 70s, has lived in self-exile for nearly 20 years on the grounds of the Golden Generation Worship & Retreat Center, an Islamic retreat founded by Turkish-Americans. On Wednesday, several Pennsylvania State Police cars were seen around the sprawling gated compound and retreat, according to photographs shared online by local news reporters. His compound is patrolled by a team of uniformed private security guards, some of them armed with handguns. A week earlier, a man appeared at the compound's front gate speaking in Turkish and acting suspiciously as he tried to get access, according to Austin Davis, a guard at the front gate on Wednesday afternoon. Police were called and took him away. Supporters of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have also staged protests outside the gates, while Gulen's supporters have accused Turkey of plotting to kidnap Gulen. The Turkish government has dismissed the claim as 'utterly false, ludicrous and groundless.' 'We urge the U.S. authorities to continue to hold Turkey accountable for its actions and threats against innocent people both here in the United States and abroad,' said the statement from the Alliance for Shared Values. A U.S. evangelical pastor, Andrew Brunson, has been held under house arrest in Turkey after authorities charged him with links to Kurdish militants and Gulen supporters, an accusation he has denied. That case has become a key issue in the worsening diplomatic conflict between the two countries, leading to U.S. sanctions. A shopping centre is trying to create a positive atmosphere for its customers by banning all grumpy people from entering the store. Brookside shopping centre in Mitchelton, in Brisbane's north, has a 'Conditions of Entry' sign with a bit of a twist. Under the usual rules such as 'No Smoking', 'No Alcohol' and 'No Animals', the condition 'No Grumpy People' is listed at the bottom. A shopping centre is trying to keep the atmosphere positive for its customers by banning all grumpy people from entering the store A worker at the shopping centre posted an image of the sign to Instagram, praising the conditions. The interesting rule has gone mostly unnoticed by shoppers, as The Courier Mail reported that only two people had provided feedback since it was implemented. Manager of Brookside shopping centre, Russell Shaw, said he was inspired by a similar sign he saw overseas. 'I just thought it was a nice point of difference,' he said. Mr Shaw said he wanted to ensure the centre maintained a positive atmosphere. He hopes the 'personal touch' will be able to police shoppers that weren't in the brightest mood. 'We really are about providing, not so much quirkiness, but a bit of personality to what is essentially a shopping centre,' Mr Shaw said. 'Our locals are very loyal to Brookside so anything we can do to make them feel comfortable and welcome here, we'll do it.' Britain has publicly accused Russias military intelligence service of carrying out a campaign of reckless and destabilising cyber-attacks across the world. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said last night the Kremlin had been working in secret to wage indiscriminate and illegal cyber-attacks on democratic institutions and businesses. In a damning charge sheet, the Government has firmly pinned the blame for a string of cyber-attacks on the GRU, the organisation also accused of poisoning double agent Sergei Skripal. Britain has publicly accused Russias military intelligence service of carrying out a campaign of reckless and destabilising cyber-attacks across the world. Pictured: Vladimir Putin The Foreign Office said the National Cyber Security Centre had assessed with high confidence that the GRU was almost certainly responsible for multiple attacks which have cost economies millions of pounds. It added: Given the high confidence assessment and the broader context, the UK Government has made the judgment that the Russian government the Kremlin was responsible. Hacks included those on the governing body of the Democratic Party in the US, the World Anti-Doping Agency, metro systems and airports in Ukraine, Russias central bank and two Russian media outlets. GRU agents are also accused of hacking a small UK-based TV station, accessing and stealing content from email accounts between July and August 2015. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt (pictured) said last night the Kremlin had been working in secret to wage indiscriminate and illegal cyber-attacks on democratic institutions and businesses State-sponsored Russian hackers have worked under codenames including Fancy Bear, Pawnstorm, CyberCaliphate, Tsar Team, Sandworm and Voodoo Bear to carry out the attacks. Mr Hunt said: These cyber-attacks serve no legitimate national security interest, instead impacting the ability of people around the world to go about their daily lives free from interference, and even their ability to enjoy sport. The GRUs actions are reckless and indiscriminate they try to undermine and interfere in elections in other countries; they are even prepared to damage Russian companies and Russian citizens. This pattern of behaviour demonstrates their desire to operate without regard to international law or established norms and to do so with a feeling of impunity and without consequences. Our message is clear: together with our allies, we will expose and respond to the GRUs attempts to undermine international stability. Sergei Skripal eating in a restaurant before he was poisoned The Foreign Office added: The National Cyber Security Centre has identified that a number of cyber actors widely known to have been conducting cyber-attacks around the world are, in fact, the GRU. These attacks have been conducted in flagrant violation of international law, have affected citizens in a large number of countries, including Russia, and have cost national economies millions of pounds. This campaign by the GRU shows that it is working in secret to undermine international law and international institutions. The latest attack used so-called BadRabbit ransomware, which encrypts the contents of a computer and demands payment in that case 0.05 bitcoins, or 213. The attack caused disruption to Ukraines Kyiv metro and Odessa airport, as well as Russias central bank. The ransomware also hit two privately owned Russian media outlets St Petersburg-based Fontanka.ru and news agency Interfax, whose website was still down 24 hours after the attack in October last year. Fontanka.ru has subsequently broken several stories on the Skripal case, including reporting that the two suspects had almost identical passport numbers. The second attack by hackers, using the codename Fancy Bear, obtained confidential medical records for international athletes from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in August last year. British cyclists Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome were among those who had records released on their use of banned substances for legitimate medical reasons. A third attack was made on the Democrat Party, which was targeted by Fancy Bear in 2016 when documents from its national committee were published online. A closed-door briefing to senators reportedly saw the CIA declare it was quite clear that electing Donald Trump was Russias goal. The fourth attack was on an unnamed UK-based TV station between July and August 2015, when multiple email accounts were accessed and content stolen. By KEILIGH BAKER FOR MAILONLINE At Edes House, their Royal Highnesses will be shown the rare Sussex copy of the American Declaration of Independence. The Sussex Declaration is one of only two contemporary handwritten ceremonial manuscript copies, the other being the signed copy housed in the National Archives in Washington D.C. The full significance of the document was only discovered last year, when academics from Harvard University visited the West Sussex Record Office. Edes House (pictured) is the home of the rare Sussex copy of the American Declaration of Independence Testing and authentication work on the document was completed in time for American Independence Day on July 4, 2018. Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant for West Sussex, Mrs Susan Pyper said: 'We are all thrilled that the Duke and Duchess are making their first official visit to our vibrant county, starting in Chichester. 'I am looking forward to showing them both this very special document from our county archives.' Edes House itself was built at the end of the 17th century for local maltster John Edes, and his wife Hannah, and now has Grade 1 listed status and has been carefully restored. The house is situated on West Street in the heart of Chichester and has nine rooms available to hire. It is often used for wedding ceremonies and concerts. Jeremy Corbyn has destroyed the Labour Party and replaced it with a new one in his own image, Theresa May warned today. The Prime Minister launched a furious attack on the Labour leader for seizing control of the party of Clement Attlee and Neil Kinnock. She said in the Commons moderate Labour MPs stared 'blankly' from the backbenches with the new party monopolising the front bench. She said: 'What has befallen Labour is a national tragedy. 'What has it come to when Jewish families today seriously discuss where they should go if Jeremy Corbyn becomes prime minister? 'When a leading Labour MP says his party is 'institutionally racist'? 'When the leader of the Labour Party is happy to appear on Iranian state TV but attacks our free media here in Britain? 'That is what Jeremy Corbyn has done to the Labour Party. It is our duty, in this Conservative Party, to make sure he can never do it to our country.' Later in the speech in a section on Russia and national security, Mrs May said Mr Corbyn 'poses as a humanitarian' but says action can only be taken if backed by Security Council. She warned: 'We cannot outsource our conscience to the Kremlin' Theresa May danced onto stage for her Tory Party conference speech today as she consigned last year's disaster to history with jokes. Mocking the dance moves she made during a recent visit to Africa, which went viral, the Prime Minister arrived in the hall dancing to Abba's Dancing Queen. She also joked: 'Youll have to excuse me if I cough during this speech; Ive been up all night supergluing the backdrop.' 'It's not always glamorous. I have seen the trailers for Bodyguard - and let me tell you it was not like that in my day.' And to all businesses large and small you may have heard that there is a four-letter word to describe what we Conservatives want to do to you. It has a single syllable. It is of Anglo-Saxon derivation. It ends in the letter 'K'. Back business. Here are the main announcements made by Theresa May at her Conservative Party conference: Immigration: In the biggest overhaul of the system in decades, the Tories said they will end EU free movement after Brexit and bring in a new skills-based system. From January 2021, European immigrants will be treated the same as immigrants from elsewhere. European migrants will have to apply for work visas and meet a minimum salary threshold before they are allowed to move to the UK. There will be temporary exemptions for areas of the economy dependent on low-skilled migrants but businesses will be told to train up British workers. Freezing fuel duty: Theresa May announced a freeze on fuel duty for the ninth year in a row. Chancellor Philip Hammond is to scrap a scheduled 2p-a-litre rise at the pumps in his October 29 Budget. Housing: A new tax on foreign property buyers will be introduced to help tackle rough sleeping. They face a surcharge of 1 per cent or 3 per cent on top of stamp duty to stop them driving up UK prices. Health: A new cancer strategy which will unrease early detection rates from one in two to three in four by 2028. They will lower the age of bowel screening from 60 to 50 years-old and build more rapid diagnostic centres. On Jeremy Corbyn: Theresa May called for 'decent, moderate, patriotic' Britons to come together to keep 'appalling' Jeremy Corbyn out of power. She said: 'What has it come to when Jewish families are seriously discussing where to go if Jeremy Corbyn becomes Prime Minister... That is what Jeremy Corbyn has done to the Labour Party. It is our duty in this Conservative Party to make sure he can never do it to our country. On Brexit: The PM warned against chasing an impossible vision of a perfect Brexit - and urged her party to unite and back her plan. She said: Those of us who do respect the result whichever side of the question we stood on two years ago need to come together now. If we dont if we all go off in different directions in pursuit of our own visions of the perfect Brexit we risk ending up with no Brexit at all. Esther McVey, the Work and Pensions Secretary, revealed this week that she was fostered when she was a child Esther McVey, Works and Pensions Secretary What did Theresa May say? 'That if you spent time in care, you can be in the Cabinet.' What is her backstory? Esther McVey revealed she was placed in a foster home shortly after she was born. The Cabinet minister, 50, revealed she was a 'Barnardo's child', spending her first two years in care with the charity. Speaking about her early childhood for the first time, she told the Daily Mail that she wanted to 'give the message that anyone can succeed given the opportunity'. She had hinted at her upbringing in her party conference speech this week, when she announced plans to work with Barnardo's to help people leaving care find jobs. In her keynote speech to the Tory conference in Birmingham yesterday, she praised the charity for how it has 'transformed the lives of millions of children and families across the UK'. She said: 'They provide unconditional support, without judgment, giving the space, time and help for people to get back on their feet. 'As one of those children, and standing proud, thank you.' A general view of people crossing the road at a traffic signal in Hong Kong Hong Kong was a British colony for 99 years and is now a self-administrated city in China. Britain raised the flag over Hong Kong Island in 1841 during the first Opium War against imperial China, which was pushing back against the destructive trade. It was ceded the Kowloon peninsula in 1860 after a second Opium War and extended north into the rural New Territories in 1898, leasing the area for 99 years. In 1997 that lease expired and Britain returned Hong Kong in its entirety to the People's Republic of China under a 50-year agreement designed to protect its semi-autonomous status, freedoms and way of life. Hong Kong is governed under a 'one country, two systems' principle which allows the global financial hub a high degree of autonomy and freedoms not enjoyed in the rest of China. The principle would be in place for as long as 50 years after the handover. It includes an independent legal system and freedoms of speech and assembly. Accuser Debbie Ramirez She says Kavanaugh exposed himself during a dorm party in their freshman year at Yale. Her attorney says she gave a list of 20 potential witnesses to the FBI Kavanaugh friend Mark Judge Man who Christine Blasey Ford says was in the room when Kavanaugh tried to rape her. His attorney said his interview spread over Monday and Tuesday. Judge, a recovering alcoholic, has denied being present at any such event and said he believed his high school friend's innocence. He also denied claims that he and Kavanaugh spiked drinks with drugs and were present during third accuser Julie Swetnick's alleged gang rape Kavanaugh friend Tim Gaudette His house was the venue for a mid-week 'skis' (beers) party on July 1, 1982, according to Kavanaugh's calendars. Ford described a party with an almost identical list of attendees. His attorney confirmed an interview but did not say what Gaudette told agents. Kavanaugh friend P.J. Smyth He was named by Ford as being at the party downstairs when she was sexually assaulted, and featured on the July 1 'skis' night list of attendees. Has previously said he did not recall such an event. Kavanaugh friend Chris 'Squi' Garrett Has been named by Ford as someone she was dating in the summer of 1982, and is on the list of attendees of the 'skis' party. His attorney says he spoke to the FBI but did not disclose his evidence. Ford friend Leland Keyser Ford said her longtime friend was at the party where she alleges she was assaulted and was downstairs at the time. Has denied any memory of such an event but Ford said Leland sent a text message saying she believed her. The Senate is currently engaged in an unlimited period of debate on Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, meaning they have the option to talk about him on the Senate floor should they so choose. When Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is ready to call for a confirmation vote, he must make a motion to end the debate, a process known as cloture. Senate rules require an intervening day to pass between when a GOP leader files for cloture and when the Senate votes on the cloture motion. So if McConnell were to file for cloture on Wednesday evening, the cloture vote would 'ripen' to allow this to happen on Friday. If he waits until Thursday morning to file for cloture, then that vote would take place Saturday. For cloture to be invoked for the nomination, 51 votes are required, under the 'nuclear option' rules change pushed through by Senate Republicans before the confirmation of Justice Neil Gorsuch during Trump's first year as president. Once the cloture is invoked, that starts the clock on the final 30 hours of debate on Kavanaugh. Senators can only vote sooner if they are able to reach unanimous agreement to do so. Once those 30 hours are up, Senators will vote on whether or not to confirm Kavanaugh. It takes a simple majority of 51 senators to confirm a nominee. But since Republicans only have a 51 seat majority, they can afford to lose only one senator if all Democrats vote no on Kavanaugh. Should it be a 50-50 vote, Vice President Mike Pence would break the tie to confirm Kavanaugh. Researchers at the University of York and the British Museum have discovered traces of opiates preserved inside a distinctive vessel dating back to the Late Bronze Age. The vessel, known as a 'base-ring juglets', has long been thought to have links with opium use because of its distinctive shape - like a poppy seed head. Traces of opiates inside the distinctive container dating back at least 3,000 years were found by scientists at the University of York. The vessel, known as a 'base-ring juglets', has long been thought to have links with opium use because of its distinctive shape - like a poppy seed head. Researchers found a sealed jug in the British Museum's collection, and were able to test it - finding Opium traces. The Cypriot vessel, known as a 'base-ring juglet' at the British Museum dates back to between 1650BC and 1350BC. Initial analysis by scientists at the British Museum showed that the juglet residue was mostly composed of a plant oil but hinted at the presence of opium alkaloids, a group of organic compounds derived from the opium poppy, and that are known to have 'significant psychological effects' on the human body. Dozens of small clay vases archaeologists call Base Ring juglets, dating from 1600-1100 B.C., have been unearthed at sites across Egypt and Syria, and were believed to have been made in Cyprus then transported. Researchers found a sealed jug in the British Museum's collection, and were able to test it - finding Opium traces. 'The particular opiate alkaloids we detected are ones we have shown to be the most resistant to degradation, which makes them better targets in ancient residues than more well-known opiates such as morphine,' said Dr Rachel Smith of the University of York. 'We found the alkaloids in degraded plant oil, so the question as to how opium would have been used in this juglet still remains. 'Could it have been one ingredient amongst others in an oil-based mixture, or could the juglet have been re-used for oil after the opium or something else entirely?' THE HISTORY OF OPIUM Opium has been known for millennia to relieve pain and its use for surgical analgesia has been recorded for several centuries. The Sumerian clay tablet (about 2100 BC) is considered to be the world's oldest recorded list of medical prescriptions, and many believe the opium poppy is referred to on the tablet. Some objects from the ancient Greek Minoan culture may also suggest the knowledge of the poppy, including a goddess from about 1500 BC shows her hair adorned probably with poppy-capsules and her closed eyes disclose sedation. Also juglets probably imitating the poppy-capsules were found in that period in both Cyprus and Egypt. The first authentic reference to the milky juice of the poppy we find by Theophrastus at the beginning of the third century BC. In the past, it has been argued that these juglets could have been used to hold poppy seed oil, containing traces of opium, used for anointing or in a perfume In the first century the opium poppy and opium was known by Dioscorides, Pliny and Celsus and later on by Galen. The Arabic physicians used opium very extensively and about 1000 AD it was recommended by Avicenna especially in diarrhoea and diseases of the eye. Simplified preparations of opium such as tinctura opii were also used up to about 2000 in Denmark. In the early 1800s sciences developed and Serturner isolated morphine from opium and was the founder of alkaloid research. A more safe and standardized effect was obtained by the pure opium. Several morphine-like drugs have been synthesized to minimize adverse effects and abuse potential. Advertisement In the past, it has been argued that these juglets could have been used to hold poppy seed oil, containing traces of opium, used for anointing or in a perfume. In this theory, the opium effects may have held symbolic significance. Professor Jane Thomas-Oates, Chair of Analytical Science in the Department of Chemistry, and supervisor of the study at the University of York, said: 'The juglet is significant in revealing important details about trade and the culture of the period, so it was important to us to try and progress the debate about what it might have been used for. 'We were able to establish a rigorous method for detecting opiates in this kind of residue, but the next analytical challenge is to see if we can succeed with less well-preserved residues.' This is the first time that reliable chemical evidence has been produced to link the opium poppy with a base-ring juglet, despite many previous attempts by researchers over the years. Dr Rebecca Stacey, Senior Scientist in the Department of Scientific Research at the British Museum, said: 'It is important to remember that this is just one vessel, so the result raises lots of questions about the contents of the juglet and its purpose. 'The presence of the alkaloids here is unequivocal and lends a new perspective to the debate about their significance.' Instagram went down this morning with thousands of social media users unable to log in to the photo-sharing website. Users worldwide reported problems with the Facebook-owned platform early on Wednesday in an outage which lasted for around an hour. Attempts to log in on a desktop browser produced a blank page with the message: '5xx Server Error', while on the mobile app users were told that their feed could not be refreshed Tweets posted by frustrated users suggested the Instagram outage stretched across the globe with the app not working in London, San Francisco or Singapore. Attempts to log in to Instagram on a desktop browser are producing a blank page with the message: '5xx Server Error', with more than 1,000 people reporting problems this morning The website DownDetector said the problems had begun at 8.16am British time, which was 3.16am in New York and 5.16pm in Sydney. People commenting on the website's updates also reported problems in California, Indonesia, India and Romania. In Australia, some users apparently went as far as to contact emergency services, with Queensland Police saying: 'Instagram being down is not a police matter'. The website and app returned at around 9am in the UK, with one Twitter user saying: 'Instagram is back, everyone resume your life'. Google search data showed a spike in searches for Instagram and related terms between around 8am and 9am UK time. During the outage one Twitter user said: 'That feeling when you delete Instagram in hopes that it will start working again and you try to re log in and you can't even get past the login page.' Another said: 'I really just turned off my wifi, turned it back on again, tried using my 4g, turned my 4g off and on again, restarted my phone only to come on twitter realizing instagram was down and it wasn't just me.' Relieved Instagram users posted on Twitter to say the hour-long outage had ended, after users worldwide reported problems with the Facebook-owned platform In Australia, some users apparently went as far as to contact emergency services, with Queensland Police saying: 'Instagram being down is not a police matter' When has Instagram previously gone down? The Instagram app and website stopped working for several hours in June this year, with most of the problems reported in Europe. There were also some outages reported in Japan, the U.S. and elsewhere although not all users appeared to have been affected. Another problem in January 2018 hit the U.S. particularly hard, especially in northeastern states. Facebook was also down for users along the West Coast, in Mexico, and in parts of South America. Parts of Europe also appeared to be affected by the outage, with reports of problems in the UK and Germany. Both Facebook and Instagram also went down for thousands of users in October 2017. Advertisement One tweeted directly to the company, saying: 'Why is your server down for so long? Showing 503 error code. Put your team to work'. 'I guess since Instagram is down people can actually socialize in real life,' one said. Another wrote: 'Instagram is down... across the world people are looking up from their phones, confused, angry, tearful.' Among many users going to Twitter to see if their problems were unique, one said: 'When you tried to refresh your Instagram page for the longest but checked Twitter, to find out it was down the whole time.' 'After refreshing and turning on data, then thinking Id been hacked , I came onto Twitter to check if Instagram is down. Twitter confirmed Instagram is in fact down,' another said. And a further Twitter user said: 'Can't sleep and Instagram is apparently down. what am I supposed to do now?' Instagram, which has more than a billion monthly users, said: 'We're aware that some users are having trouble accessing Instagram. Were working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.' On Monday Instagram's co-founders Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger announced they will leave the company with Adam Mosseri said to take the helm. Twitter exploded with memes after as frustrated users reported the Instagram outage stretched across the globe, with the app not working in London, San Francisco or Singapore Instagram went down on Wednesday morning with dozens of social media users unable to log in to the photo-sharing website The Google Doodle for October 3, 2018 celebrates the German Reunification Day, which occurred 28 years ago today in 1990. Also known as German Unity Day, the national holiday commemorates the official day when East and West Germany united to make one country again. Here is all you need to know about German Reunification Day including what it is, how it happened and how it is celebrated. The Google Doodle for Wednesday, October 3, 2018 celebrates German Reunification Day What is German Reunification Day? German Reunification Day marks the official day East Germany stopped existing. On October 3, 1990 the East German government dissolved and the state became part of West Germany, as per Article 23 of Germanys Basic Laws. When was Germany divided? Germany became a divided country after the Second World War ended in 1945, when it was divided into four zones by the Allies and the Soviet Union. The sectors of the Allies became West Germany while the Soviet Unions sector became East Germany. The nations capital, Berlin, was also split into East and West, despite being in East Germany. The two newly-formed countries came to symbolise the growing ideological divide between the West and East. Both the US and the Soviet Union became involved in a race to become the dominant superpower, sparking the Cold War. In 1949, Germany officially became two countries with two governments: the Federal Republic of Germany (FRD) of the Allies West Germany, and the German Democratic Republic (GDR) allied to the Soviet Union. In 1952, the East German government shut down the border between East and West Germany and on an August night in 1961, a metal wire barrier was constructed, cutting off access to West Berlin. That divide quickly became the foundation of the infamous Berlin Wall, which cut access to West Berlin and thus West Germany. The Wall, which spanned 155 kilometres and stood at 13-feet tall, was in place until November 9, 1989 when Gunter Schabowski, the East Germany government spokesman misspoke and said that travel regulations for travel between East and West Germany would be relaxed right away. Very quickly tens of thousands of people gathered by the Wall and began chipping away at the border. The reason why German Unity Day is not on November 9 is because of the dark associations the date has in German history. November 9 is known as Schicksalstag, which translates as Fateful Day. On that date in 1918, Germany stopped being a monarchy and became a republic after Kaiser Wilhelm II was dethroned. Five years later, Adolf Hitler and the Nazis instigated the Munich Beer Hall Putsch. The date became a national holiday during Nazi rule. In 1938, November 9 was the date of Kristallnacht, Night of Broken Glass, in which the Nazi authorities began a pogrom against the Jewish people, arresting 30,000 Jews, killing hundreds, destroying synagogues, Jewish property and shops on a massive scale. As such it was felt that November 9 would be an inappropriate date to celebrate German Unity Day. Heute vor 57 Jahren begann der Bau der #BerlinerMauer. Unsere Karte zeigt Grenzverlauf und Grenzubergange der #DDR im Jahr 1989 vor dem #Mauerfall.#Mauerbau #BerlinWall #Berlin pic.twitter.com/8ePwdYRjCf Bundesamt fur Kartographie und Geodasie (@BKG_Bund) August 13, 2018 How is German Reunification Day celebrated? German Reunification Day is a national holiday that sees the whole country take part in a variety of celebrations. Every year the day is marked with a festival called Burgerfest, which is hosted every year by a different state capital. In 2018, the official celebrations will be hosted by Berlin. The day will be celebrated with a three-day festival by the Platz der Republik at Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate. There will be live music and food stalls in that area. There will be a Great Unity Concert on October 3 in front of the Brandenburg Gate and many museums and foundations are working with the History and Culture of Remembrance area to provide more insight into German unification in front of the Soviet Memorial on Strasse des 17 Juni. What is a Google Doodle? German Reunification Day has been honoured in the Google Doodle for October 3, 2018. The Doodle, which was created by guest artist Axel Pfaender, reads: 'Today Germans celebrate reunification. Feasts and picnics are common, as well as a festival with live bands and food in Berlin by the Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of division thats now symbolic of unity.' Google Doodles are small illustrations or animations that appear in the Google logo on the search engine's homepage. The first time a Google Doodle was used was in 1998, when Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin visited the 1998 Burning Man Festival. To commemorate their trip, the founders drew a stick-man standing behind the second o in the Google logo. Recent Google Doodles include celebrations of Google's 20th anniversary, US National Voter Registration Day, Josefa Llanes Escoda and Fred Rogers. A design has been unveiled for an upgraded British Army tank with a laser warning system, automatic AI-powered targeting and 'Planet Earth II style' thermal imaging. The latest design by BAE Systems is a proposed upgrade for the Challenger 2, a tank which has served in Iraq and Bosnia and which defence chiefs are planning to extend until 2035. The firm - which released a Hollywood-style trailer for the vehicle - is one of two bidders, along with German-based defence contractor Rheinmetall, who are competing for the contract to prolong the Challenger's life. The Challenger 2 has been in service since 1998 - the successor to the Challenger 1 which was used during the first Gulf War - and served during the invasion of Iraq in 2003. The 'Black Night' vehicle would have two independent night vision systems allowing a gunner to focus on one target while a commander identifies others simultaneously The Challenger 2 has been in service since 1998 and defence chiefs are intending to keep it going until 2035. It is pictured in action in the southern Iraqi city of Basra in 2003 What do the tank's design specifications mean? Active protection: The tank can detect incoming enemy weapons and respond automatically. Laser warning system: The Black Night can spin the gun turret by itself to point towards the source of an enemy attack. Regenerative braking: The turret can generate power when the gun is slowing down and the whole vehicle is said to use less 'energy-hungry' equipment. Thermal imaging technology: The tank's manufacturers say it can produce extra-sharp night imagery, with operation in the dark one of its key selling points. Accelerated fightability: The weaponry can be controlled more quickly. Advertisement The tank was also deployed in Bosnia and Kosovo during the NATO-led mission in former Yugoslavia in the late 1990s. Challenger 2 has a crew of four and carries a 120mm main gun and two 7.62mm machine guns, with a top speed of around 37mph. It is currently in service with the Queens Royal Hussars, the Kings Royal Hussars and the Royal Tank Regiment. The latest design for the upgrade was developed at BAE's its combat vehicles hub in the West Midlands. Its features include an 'active protection system' which allows the upgraded Challenger 2 to detect incoming anti-tank missiles or armour penetrating rounds. The sophisticated defence mechanism can automatically launch a counter-explosive to neutralise the threat, the manufacturers have said. In a further defensive upgrade the new tank can identify the source of a threat with a laser warning system and automatically turn the gun to face in that direction. The new tank also carries front and rear infrared cameras described by the firm as 'similar to those used in television programmes such as Planet Earth II' - the nature documentary presented by Sir David Attenborough. They are intended to provide extremely sharp night images, in one of the new features which gives the upgraded vehicle its name 'Black Night'. The vehicle would have two independent night vision systems allowing a gunner to focus on one target while a commander identifies others simultaneously BAE said upgrades to the tank included laser and missile-based protection systems, thermal imaging technology and regenerative power sourcing The tank's makers say it can produce extra-sharp night imagery, using technology similar to the BBC series Planet Earth II. Operation in the dark is one of the tank's key selling points Its gun turret features what the company calls 'regenerative braking', which generates power when the gun slows down into position. The vehicle also uses less energy-hungry kit to make the whole tank more energy efficient, the manufacturers said. The new equipment controlling tank's weaponry is also said to be faster, meaning the crew can identify an enemy, target and engage more quickly Simon Jackson, campaign leader for Team Challenger 2, said: 'The UK is home to some of the world's finest engineering companies, who have pushed the boundaries of combat vehicle design with Black Night. 'We are providing the bulk of this upgrade from home soil, however, we have chosen the best defence companies from around the world to collaborate with also, including names from Canada, France and Germany who bring unique skills and proven technology. 'The British Army has our commitment that we will deliver the most capable upgrade possible, and the best value for money.' The Black Night's can spin the gun turret by itself to point towards the source of an enemy attack. BAE Systems has released the design during the 'Assessment Phase' of the bidding The tank can detect incoming enemy weapons and respond automatically in what manufacturers BAE Systems - bidding for the final contract - call an 'active protection' system The firm is leading a partnership of major defence firms, collectively known as Team Challenger 2, to bid for the tank's Life Extension Project (LEP). The LEP is intended to push the Challenger 2's withdrawal date back from 2025 until 2035. BAE and Rheinmetall won 23million preliminary contracts in December 2016 for a development phase of the bidding in which both companies were ordered to come up with designs. Both contractors will bid for the Demonstration, Manufacture and In Service contract phases to provide the finished vehicles. Rheinmetall has not yet revealed details of its own plans for the Challenger 2 upgrade. The German-based firm said it was 'working on a proposal for enhancing the combat effectiveness' of the vehicle. BAE said the tank would be 'delivered in the UK' including at an assembly and testing facility in facility in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales. The rival German firm said a 'key aspect of the Rheinmetall offer' was to involve UK-based suppliers. Two American professors including the fifth female winner ever and a British scientist have won the Nobel Prize in chemistry for harnessing evolution to help humans. American scientists Frances Arnold and George Smith and British researcher Gregory Winter won the Nobel Chemistry Prize for harnessing the principles of evolution to develop proteins. Professor Arnold won one half of the nine million Swedish kronor (about $1.01 million/ 770,000) prize, while Professor Smith and Winter shared the other half. The trio used the same principles of evolution genetic change and selection to develop proteins used in a range of fields. American scientists Frances Arnold (left) and George Smith (middle) and British researcher Gregory Winter (right) won the Nobel Chemistry Prize for harnessing the principles of evolution to develop proteins THE NOBEL PRIZES Nobel prizes were initially awarded in the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, literature and peace. In 1969, another prize was added, The Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel. Medicine is the first of the Nobel Prizes awarded each year. The Nobel Laureates are announced annually at the beginning of October. They are honoured in December, on the anniversary of Alfred Nobel's death. Winners receive their prizes from the Swedish King. All Nobel Prizes are awarded in Stockholm, Sweden, except for the Nobel Peace Prize, which is awarded in Oslo, Norway. Advertisement 'They have applied the principles of Darwin in test tubes', the head of the Academy's Nobel Chemistry committee, Claes Gustafsson, told reporters. 'They have used the molecular understanding we have of the evolutionary process and recreated the process in their labs. 'They have been able to make evolution many 1000s times faster and redirect it to create new proteins.' Arnold, 62, is a professor of chemical engineering at the California Institute of Technology. Her work has made it possible to solve problems such as replacing toxic chemicals like fossil fuels. Her method of creating new proteins with desired properties is being used to convert renewable resources like sugar cane into biofuels. It is also being used to make more environmentally friendly chemical substances, improving everyday products such as laundry and dishwashing detergents to enhance their performance in cold temperatures. Professor Smith, of the University of Missouri, and Professor Winter, of the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology at Cambridge, meanwhile developed an 'elegant method' known as phage display. This is where a bacteriophage - a virus that infects bacteria - can be used to evolve new proteins, the jury said. Pharmaceuticals for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel diseases have resulted from their research, as well as anti-bodies that can neutralise toxins, counteract autoimmune diseases and cure metastatic cancer. Half of the prize was designated for Professor Arnold of Caltech in Pasadena (pictured), who is the fifth woman to win the Nobel Prize in Chemistry WHAT DID THE WINNERS DO? Frances Arnold of the US was awarded for using the principles of evolution to develop new enzymes, which are the basic chemical tools of life. At first she tried to force such changes using more traditional methods, but her breakthrough came when she allowed evolutionary forces such as selection and even chance to govern the development of enzymes, while still subtly guiding them. It was the first step toward a revolution in the field, with the slight but fundamental changes leading to more environmentally friendly chemical substances, new pharmaceuticals, and more renewable fuels, according to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. Her work has made it possible to solve problems such as replacing toxic chemicals like fossil fuels. Her method of creating new proteins with desired properties is being used to convert renewable resources like sugar cane into biofuels The principles behind evolution were also used by the other Nobel winners, George Smith of the US and Britain's Gregory Winter, who focused on tiny viruses that infect bacteria called bacteriophages - or phages for short. Using this invading element, George Smith invented an 'elegant' method called phage display in which these invading phages introduce antibodies - which function like 'targeted missiles', the Academy said. Gregory Winter then applied directed evolution to develop the world's first pharmaceutical entirely based on a human antibody. This has since led to a wide range of different drugs that can target certain tumour cells, arthritis, the toxin that causes anthrax, help slow down lupus and even in some cases cure metastatic cancer. Many more such antibodies are currently undergoing clinical trials, including some to combat Alzheimer's disease, the Academy said. Alan Boyd, president of Britain's Faculty of Pharmaceutical Medicine, hailed the award. 'The use of antibodies has resulted in a paradigm shift in the way that we now treat so many diseases which has brought significant benefits to patients across the world and will continue to do so for years to come,' he said. 'They have applied the principles of Darwin in test tubes', the head of the Academy's Nobel Chemistry committee, Claes Gustafsson, told reporters. 'They have used the molecular understanding we have of the evolutionary process and recreated the process in their labs. 'They have been able to make evolution many 1000s times faster and redirect it to create new proteins.' Advertisement 'Pretty much every Nobel laureate understands that what he's getting the prize for is built on many precedents, a great number of ideas and research that he is exploiting because he is at the right place at the right time,' Professor Smith told The Associated Press. 'Very few research breakthroughs are novel. Virtually all of them build on what went on before. It's happenstance. That was certainly the case with my work. Mine was an idea in a line of research that built very naturally on the lines of research that went before.' Professor Smith said he learned of the prize in a pre-dawn phone call from Stockholm. American scientists Frances Arnold (left) and George Smith (middle) and British researcher Gregory Winter (right) won the Nobel Chemistry Prize for harnessing the principles of evolution to develop proteins WOMEN WINNERS OF SCIENTIFIC NOBELS US scientist Frances Arnold became the fifth women to win a chemistry Nobel on Wednesday, the day after Canada's Donna Strickland became just the third woman - and first in 55 years - to clinch the physics award. Twelve women have won the medicine Nobel, meaning there have been 19 female winners (Marie Curie received two separate prizes) out of more than 600 laureates across the three scientific categories. Physics 1903 - Marie Curie 1963 - Maria Goeppert-Mayer 2018 - Donna Strickland Chemistry 1911 - Marie Curie 1935 - Irene Joliot-Curie 1964 - Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin 2009 - Ada Yonath 2018 - Frances Arnold Medicine 1947 - Gerty Cori 1977 - Rosalyn Yalow 1983 - Barbara McClintock 1986 - Rita Levi-Montalcini 1988 - Gertrude Elion 1995 - Christiane Nuesslein-Volhard 2004 - Linda Buck 2008 - Francoise Barre-Sinoussi 2009 - Elizabeth Blackburn 2009 - Carol Greider 2014 - May-Britt Moser 2015 - Youyou Tu Advertisement 'It's a standard joke that someone with a Swedish accent calls and says you won!' he said. 'But there was so much static on the line, I knew it wasn't any of my friends,' he said. He said he has 'no idea' what he'll do with the prize money. 'We're going to give it away, I think. But we'll think hard how we'll do it. It's not just the money, it has a meaning well beyond the money.' Professor Smith, 77, was at the University of Missouri at the Division of Biological Sciences for 40 years. Last year's prize went to researchers in the United States, Switzerland and Britain who developed a microscope technique that lets scientists see details of the molecules that drive life. The prizes for achievements in science, literature and peace were created in accordance with the will of dynamite inventor and businessman Alfred Nobel and have been awarded since 1901. Nobel prizes were initially awarded in the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, literature and peace. In 1969, another prize was added, The Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel. The Nobel Laureates are announced annually at the beginning of October, but are honoured in December, on the anniversary of Alfred Nobel's death. All Nobel Prizes are awarded in Stockholm, Sweden, except for the Nobel Peace Prize, which is awarded in Oslo, Norway. During his life, Alfred Nobel started 87 companies all over the world and amassed an incredible fortune. At the time of his death on December 10, 1896, he had 355 patents globally, including one for dynamite. His will stipulated that the money should be used to establish prizes to award those who had done their best to benefit mankind. The winners will receive their prize from King Carl XVI Gustaf at a formal ceremony in Stockholm on December 10, the anniversary of the 1896 death of Alfred Nobel who created the prizes in his last will and testament Astronomers have found evidence of the first moon to exist beyond our solar system. The gargantuan 'exomoon' is similar in size to the gas giant Neptune and orbits a planet 8,000 light years away called Kepler-1625b. More than 3,000 exoplanets - worlds orbiting stars other than the sun - have been found so far but no 'exomoons' have ever been confirmed. Scroll down for video This artist's impression shows what the exoplanet Kepler-1625b (orange) may look like. Its exomoon (blue), the first ever spotted, can be seen orbiting the enormous planet . These objects are believed to be 8,000 light years away from Earth 'This would be the first case of detecting a moon outside our solar system,' said Dr David Kipping, an assistant professor of astronomy at Columbia University. The researchers analysed data from 284 planets discovered by the Kepler telescope that orbit their host star in at least 30 days. NASA's Kepler space observatory launched in 2009 on a mission to discover Earth-size planets orbiting other stars. Kepler looks for the momentary dimming of brightness caused by the transit of a planet and is often a telltale sign of a planet's existence. When studying the data from the transit of a planet called Kepler-1625b, the team of researchers noticed some anomalies in the data. 'We saw little deviations and wobbles in the light curve that caught our attention,' Dr Kipping said. As a result of these 2017 findings the team secured a 40-hour window with the Hubble telescope, which is four times more precise than Kepler, to study the potential moon in greater detail. Using Hubble, the team observed the entire 19-hour journey of the distant planet across the surface of its star. Three and a half hours after the completion of the event the team then saw a smaller dip in the star's brightness, indicating the passing of a smaller object in front of the star. The astronomers believe that this was the planet's moon following slightly behind the large planet. Dr Kipping said of the findings: '[It looked like] a moon trailing the planet like a dog following its owner on a leash.' 'Unfortunately, the scheduled Hubble observations ended before the complete transit of the moon could be measured.' The study, published in the journal Science Advances, also found that the enormous gas giant planet began its transit 75 minutes earlier than predicted. This, the scientists claim, further solidifies the theory that that there is a moon orbiting the planet as it implies both celestial bodies are orbiting a common centre of gravity. This is known in astronomy as the 'barycentre' and would cause the planet to wobble from its expected location. The Hubble telescope (pictured) gives data up to four times more precise than Kepler. It is the most powerful telescope ever built and the researchers observed the entire 19-hour journey of Kepler 1625b in front of its star Dr Kipping noted: 'An extraterrestrial civilisation watching the Earth and Moon transit the sun would note similar anomalies in the timing of Earth's transit.' This mild deviation in the planet's orbit could be explained by the gravitational tug from another nearby planet, but astronomers believe there are no other planets in this particular star system. Lead author Mr Teachey, a graduate fellow in astronomy, said: 'A companion moon is the simplest and most natural explanation for the second dip in the light curve and the orbit-timing deviation. 'It was a shocking moment to see that light curve - my heart started beating a little faster and I just kept looking at that signature. 'But we knew our job was to keep a level head testing every conceivable way in which the data could be tricking us until we were left with no other explanation.' Scientists study the atmosphere of distant exoplanets using enormous space satellites like Hubble Distant stars and their orbiting planets often have conditions unlike anything we see in our atmosphere. To understand these new world's, and what they are made of, scientists need to be able to detect what their atmospheres consist of. They often do this by using a telescope similar to Nasa's Hubble Telescope. These enormous satellites scan the sky and lock on to exoplanets that Nasa think may be of interest. Here, the sensors on board perform different forms of analysis. One of the most important and useful is called absorption spectroscopy. This form of analysis measures the light that is coming out of a planet's atmosphere. Every gas absorbs a slightly different wavelength of light, and when this happens a black line appears on a complete spectrum. These lines correspond to a very specific molecule, which indicates it's presence on the planet. They are often called Fraunhofer lines after the German astronomer and physicist that first discovered them in 1814. By combining all the different wavelengths of lights, scientists can determine all the chemicals that make up the atmosphere of a planet. The key is that what is missing, provides the clues to find out what is present. It is vitally important that this is done by space telescopes, as the atmosphere of Earth would then interfere. Absorption from chemicals in our atmosphere would skew the sample, which is why it is important to study the light before it has had chance to reach Earth. This is often used to look for helium, sodium and even oxygen in alien atmospheres. This diagram shows how light passing from a star and through the atmosphere of an exoplanet produces Fraunhofer lines indicating the presence of key compounds such as sodium or helium Advertisement The moon is estimated to be only 1.5 per cent the mass of its companion planet - which itself is estimated to be several times bigger than Jupiter. Despite both the moon and the host planet are far larger than Earth and the moon, but the scientists say the mass-ratio between the two is similar. Exomoons are difficult to find because they are smaller than their companion planet and so their transit signal is weak. Ideal planets for observation for potential exomoons are in large orbits and have long and infrequent transit times. In this search, the Neptune-sized moon would have been among the easiest to first detect because of its large size. The host planet and its moon lie within the habitable zone of the star Kepler-1625 where moderate temperatures allow for the existence of liquid water on solid surfaces. But Dr Kipping said: 'Both bodies, however, are considered to be gaseous and therefore unsuitable for life as we know it.' Future searches will target Jupiter-sized planets that are farther from their star than Earth is from the sun. There are just a handful of these in the Kepler database. Nasa's upcoming James Webb Space Telescope could really 'clean-up' in the satellite search. Professor Kipping said: 'We can expect to see really tiny moons.' Advertisement A photographer has snapped a rare quintuple rainbow over his home in New Jersey. So-called 'supernumerary rainbows' only form when falling water droplets are all nearly exactly the same size, according to Nasa, which featured the image as part of its astronomy picture of the day on Tuesday. The result is a series of three or more rainbows hanging in the sky that can sometimes stretch to five in 'exceptional' circumstances, according to one expert. Scroll down for full image Pictured is a half version of the image. A photographer has snapped a rare quintuple rainbow over his home in New Jersey. So-called 'supernumerary rainbows' only form when falling water droplets are all nearly exactly the same size, according to a Nasa post about the image Photographer John Entwistle took the amazing snap while photographing a sunset from his backyard. The incredible spectacle faded in an out for around half an hour, much to the delight of the photographer. Writing on Instagram on September 18, Mr Entwistle said: 'I could be wrong but that sure looks like a quintuple rainbow at sunset tonight over the Jersey Shore, NJ.' Nasa featured the amazing image as part of its astronomy picture of the day on Tuesday, describing the phenomenon pictured as a 'hall of rainbows'. The agency wrote: 'Supernumerary rainbows only form when falling water droplets are all nearly the same size and typically less than a millimetre across. 'Then, sunlight will not only reflect from inside the raindrops, but interfere, a wave phenomenon similar to ripples on a pond when a stone is thrown in.' Nasa featured the image as part of its astronomy picture of the day on Tuesday, describing the stunning photograph as 'a hall of rainbows'. Pictured is Wednesday's entry: A Nasa image of the galactic cluster NGC 1898 WHAT IS A SUPERNUMERARY RAINBOW? Supernumerary rainbows are made up of one main bright rainbow and at least two others. They occur when raindrops in a storm all form about the same size - usually below a millimetre in diameter. Sun rays reflect from inside the raindrops, producing the colours of the rainbow. But they also interfere, a wave phenomenon similar to ripples on a pond when a stone is thrown in. Advertisement Experts said that while supernumerary rainbows were relatively common, a quintuple sighting was 'exceptionally' rare. This is because the viewer has to be lined up at precisely the right angle when observing the rainbow to see so many in a row. Raymond Lee, a research professor at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, said: 'Supernumerary rainbows are actually fairly common and, despite their superfluous-sounding name, are an intrinsic part of any rainbow.' Dr Gunther Konnen, a retired climate scientist with the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute, told Live Science: 'In general, supernumeraries are quite common. There are many pictures of 2 or 3 supernumeraries. 'But the appearance in nature of 5 supernumeraries is exceptional.' Facebook says it has found no evidence 'so far' that hackers broke into third-party apps after a data breach exposed 50 million users. The social media giant said attackers exploited the site's 'View As' feature, which lets people see what their profiles look like to other users. Yesterday the firm revealed that hackers may have been able to break into any third-party service which a person used their Facebook logins to access - a feature called Facebook Single Sign-On. Private data stored on thousands of websites that use the service, including Uber, Airbnb, Tinder, Spotify the New York Times and the Washington Post, could also have been accessed by cyber criminals. However, the firm has now said it found no evidence 'so far' that the service was exploited. It is now building a tool to enable developers to manually identify the users of their apps who may have been affected so that they can log them out. Scroll down for video Facebook says it has found no evidence 'so far' that hackers broke into third-party apps after a data breach exposed 50 million users (stock image) WHAT SERVICES WERE AFFECTED BY THE FACEBOOK BREACH? Private data stored on thousands of websites that use the service, including Uber, Airbnb, Tinder, Spotify the New York Times and the Washington Post, could have been accessed by cyber criminals. Recent research revealed that some of the web's most popular sites lack basic security precautions that would have limited the fallout of the Facebook hack. They found that just two of the world's 95 most popular sites - a list that includes Uber, Airbnb, the New York Times and the Washington Post - asked users to re-enter their Facebook password each time they used Facebook Single Sign-On. Any web or mobile site that allowed you to log-in via Facebook may have been affected by the recent breach. These include: - Spotify - Tinder - Instagram - Airbnb - Uber - New York Times - Washington Post Advertisement 'This was a serious issue and we worked fast to protect the security of peoples accounts and investigate what happened', Guy Rosen, VP of Product Management wrote in a blog post. 'We have now analysed our logs for all third-party apps installed or logged in during the attack we discovered last week. 'That investigation has so far found no evidence that the attackers accessed any apps using Facebook Login', he said. The vulnerability was fixed and users' access tokens were reset. Resetting the access tokens meant users had to log back in to Facebook or any of their apps that use Facebook Login. Mr Rosen said that any developer using the official Facebook Software Development Kit (SDK) was automatically protected when people's access tokens were re-set. However, not all developers use Facebook SDKs. Mr Rosen said that 'out of an abundance of caution' developers are 'building a tool to enable developers to manually identify the users of their apps who may have been affected, so that they can log them out'. Recent research revealed that some of the web's most popular sites lack basic security precautions that would have limited the fallout of the Facebook hack. They found that just two of the world's 95 most popular sites - a list that includes Uber, Airbnb, the New York Times and the Washington Post - asked users to re-enter their Facebook password each time they used Facebook Single Sign-On. The unknown attackers took advantage of a feature in the code called 'Access Tokens,' to take over people's accounts, potentially giving hackers access to private messages, photos and posts - although Facebook said there was no evidence that had been done. Mr Rosen laid bare the potential ripple effects in a conference call with reporters last week. He said: 'The access token enables someone to use the account as if they were the account holder themselves. 'This does mean they could access other third-party apps using Facebook login.' It is not clear whether hackers have used Facebook's login service to access other apps, writes Business Insider. Private data stored on thousands of websites that use the service, including Uber, Airbnb, Tinder, Spotify (pictured) the New York Times and the Washington Post, could also have been accessed by cyber criminals HOW DO YOU PROTECT YOURSELF? The best way to protect yourself is to set up two-step authentication. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to apps and websites by asking for both a password and a unique code when logging in. Once verified, if anyone tries to log into their account they will be sent an autentication code via text message. Even if a hacker has obtained the user's email address and password, they won't be able to access the account without this extra code. While the extra layer of security isn't completely hacker proof, it's far more robust. Also if users have different passwords for each account it means hackers will not be able to access all accounts in one go. Advertisement However, it's now more likely these firms will carry out investigations of their own. Users that were logged out of the service between 27th and 28th September are likely to have been impacted by the breach. As a result of the breach, the firm logged roughly 90 million people out of their accounts this week as a security measure. Earlier this week a shocking report revealed Facebook logins were being sold on the dark web for just $3.90 (3) each. Email logins sell for as little as $2.70 (2) each, according to experts who analysed the value of 26 commonly used accounts. They found the majority of someone's online life could be available for just $970, which includes all usernames, passwords and email addresses. According to a blog post by Cheshire-based firm Money Guru, which carried out the research, these details are frequently stolen to sell to companies with want to do targeted advertising. 'There are few better ways to gain insight into someone's life than their social media accounts', researchers wrote. 'These details are frequently stolen to sell to companies with little scruples about targeted advertising. 'It's also a fast track to identity theft as they can take control of your accounts, lock you out and cause serious reputational damage in a short space of time', they wrote. As a result, some experts and officials have grown concerned about whether the firm can effectively manage and protect users' data. READ THE FULL STATEMENT FROM MARK ZUCKERBERG ON THE DATA BREACH I want to update you on an important security issue we've identified. We patched the issue last night and are taking precautionary measures for those who might have been affected. We're still investigating, but I want to share what we've already found: On Tuesday, we discovered that an attacker exploited a technical vulnerability to steal access tokens that would allow them to log into about 50 million people's accounts on Facebook. We do not yet know whether these accounts were misused but we are continuing to look into this and will update when we learn more. We've already taken a number of steps to address this issue: 1. We patched the security vulnerability to prevent this attacker or any other from being able to steal additional access tokens. And we invalidated the access tokens for the accounts of the 50 million people who were affected causing them to be logged out. These people will have to log back in to access their accounts again. We will also notify these people in a message on top of their News Feed about what happened when they log back in. 2. As a precautionary measure, even though we believe we've fixed the issue, we're temporarily taking down the feature that had the security vulnerability until we can fully investigate it and make sure there are no other security issues with it. The feature is called 'View As' and it's a privacy tool to let you see how your own profile would look to other people. 3. As an additional precautionary measure, we're also logging out everyone who used the View As feature since the vulnerability was introduced. This will require another 40 million people or more to log back into their accounts. We do not currently have any evidence that suggests these accounts have been compromised, but we're taking this step as a precautionary measure. We face constant attacks from people who want to take over accounts or steal information around the world. While I'm glad we found this, fixed the vulnerability, and secured the accounts that may be at risk, the reality is we need to continue developing new tools to prevent this from happening in the first place. If you've forgotten your password or are having trouble logging in, you can access your account through the @Help Center. There's more detail in Guy's post below, and we'll update you as our investigation continues. Advertisement 'The implications of this are huge,' Justin Fier, director of cyber intelligence at security company Darktrace, told Reuters. The breach could also cause problems for Facebook with European privacy laws. Facebook said it hasinformed the Irish Data Protection Commission about the breach, a step required by Europe's GDPR regulations. The commission said it received the notification, but expressed concern with its timing and lack of detail. Virginia Sen. Mark Warner called the hack 'deeply concerning' and called for a full investigation. '...Today's disclosure is a reminder about the dangers posed when a small number of companies like Facebook or the credit bureau Equifax are able to accumulate so much personal data about individual Americans without adequate security measures. 'This is another sobering indicator that Congress needs to step up and take action to protect the privacy and security of social media users. As I've said before - the era of the Wild West in social media is over,' he added. Not long after the breach was announced, some Twitter users also began reporting that Facebook was blocking them from sharing links to stories about the hack from the Associated Press and The Guardian. When users attempted to share the links, they were served a message that read: 'Our security systems have detected that a lot of people are posting the same content, which could mean that it's spam. Please try a different post.' The move caused some to speculate that it was a result of Facebook suppressing negative coverage of itself. However, Facebook later confirmed to the New York Times that it was a result of an error with the firm's spam detection tools. Friday's announcement sent Facebook's stock plunging by as much as 3.4 percent in afternoon trading, adding to an already rough year for Facebook shares, which have fallen 6.7 percent so far this year. Friday's news sent Facebook's stock down as much as 3.4 percent in afternoon trading, adding to an already rough year for Facebook shares, which have fallen 6.7 percent so far this year Zuckerberg penned a post on his personal Facebook page about the incident, saying the issue was 'patched last night' but that the firm is working with law enforcement, including the FBI, to investigate the origins of the attack. WERE YOU AFFECTED BY THE FACEBOOK BREACH? Facebook said it logged out around 90 million users as a result of the hack. Affected users will be prompted to log back in Facebook when they try and access the site. Users are sent a six-digit code via email or to a mobile device that authenticates their identity, which they're then instructed to enter on Facebook's site. After they have logged back in, people will get a notification at the top of their News Feed explaining what happened. Facebook also said it was temporarily turning off the 'View As' feature while it conducted a thorough security review. Advertisement 'On Tuesday, we discovered that an attacker exploited a technical vulnerability to steal access tokens that would allow them to log into about 50 million people's accounts on Facebook,' Zuckerberg wrote. Access tokens don't include a user's password, but they do allow users to log into a Facebook account without needing it. 'Our security systems have detected that a lot of people are posting the same content, which could mean that it's spam,' the notice said. 'Please try a different post.' Zuckerberg acknowledged in a statement to reporters that Facebook needs to take additional steps to prevent these kinds of issues from occurring in the future. 'We're taking it really seriously...We have a major security effort at the company that hardens all of our surfaces,' Zuckerberg said in a call with reporters. 'I'm glad we found this. But it definitely is an issue that this happened in the first place.' Facebook doesn't know whether the accounts were misused, and hasn't yet found any evidence of them being misused. Tesla managed to meet its ambitious Model 3 production targets. The electric carmaker confirmed Tuesday it produced 53,239 Model 3 sedans over the last three months, which is within its previously stated range of 50,000 to 55,000 cars. On top of that, it delivered a record-setting 83,500 vehicles during the period, which included roughly 56,000 Model 3 deliveries. The update comes as eagle-eyed internet sleuths have spotted thousands of unclaimed Teslas in parking lots around the US, stoking analysts' concerns that it could be due to sluggish demand or continued delivery issues. Scroll down for video The electric carmaker confirmed Tuesday it produced 53,239 Model 3 sedans over the last three months, which is within its previously stated range of 50,000 to 55,000 cars In a release, Tesla touted the quarter's delivery numbers as record setting. 'To put this in perspective, in just Q3, we delivered more than 80 percent of the vehicles that we delivered in all of 2017, and we delivered about twice as many Model 3s as we did in all previous quarters combined,' the firm said in a statement. It signals good news for Tesla, even as CEO Elon Musk wrapped up a tumultuous feud with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Musk announced he would step down as chairman of Tesla as part of his settlement with the SEC. The SEC lawsuit accused Musk of securities fraud over his infamous 'funding secured' tweet, which surrounded his now-defunct plans to take the company private. Many analysts and experts have pegged Tesla's future on the success of the Model 3. Tesla has steadily ramped up production and sales of the vehicle in recent months. The firm nearly doubled its rate of Model 3 production compared to the June period, producing 53,239 Model 3s in the last three months vs. 28,578 Model 3s in the previous quarter. Still, Tesla is only producing roughly 4,100 Model 3 sedans per week. The firm had hoped to be producing 10,000 cars per week by now. The company said the higher deliveries came despite a 40 percent tariff imposed by Beijing on US cars. The difficult economics make for 'a challenging competitive environment, given that China is by far the largest market for electric vehicles,' Tesla said in a statement. 'To address this issue, we are accelerating construction of our Shanghai factory.' Tesla unveiled plans for the Shanghai factory in July. Musk said at the time he hoped the plant would be 'completed very soon.' But the firm has yet to address another looming issue surrounding its vehicle deliveries. Internet users have been posting photos of thousands of Teslas stationed at parking lots in California, New Jersey, Arizona and other states. The vehicles were spotted by amateur detectives who flew drones over the parking lots to snap photos of the sitting cars. Another ended up taking to the skies in a private plane to snap hi-res photos from the air before posting them on Twitter. Tesla spokesman Dave Arnold told the New York Times that the large lots of vehicles were 'logistics transit hubs' and added, 'Anyone observing those lots will see a change from one day to the next.' Internet users have posted photos of thousands of Teslas stationed at parking lots in California, New Jersey, Arizona and Utah. Amateur sleuths took the photos using drones The internet sleuths believe it may signal that Elon Musk hasn't been truthful about the company's delivery numbers and that demand isn't as strong as many had thought However, the internet sleuths believe the parking lots may serve as evidence that something is amiss at the company. They believe it may signal that Elon Musk hasn't been truthful about the company's delivery numbers and that demand isn't as strong as many had thought. Another group believes it could mean that Tesla is facing continued issues with getting the cars in the hands of consumers who've bought them. Customers have been complaining that their Tesla delivery dates have been delayed over and over while vehicles sit unmoved in lots. One tweeted to Musk last month: 'There are 42 Tesla's sitting at the Union Pacific Railroad in SLC. My car is one of these. I've been told I was getting delivery the 8th, then the 15th, then the 20th, then the 22nd, and now my delivery has been delayed indefinite. @Tesla @elonmusk... Please make this right.' Musk tweeted back and acknowledged the problem: 'Sorry, we've gone from production hell to delivery logistics hell, but this problem is far more tractable. We're making rapid progress. Should be solved shortly.' Musk attributed the problem to a shortage of trucks to haul cars around the country but others disagree saying there is 'plenty of car haulage capacity.' A 90,000-year-old bone knife made from an ancient animal rib has been discovered in a Moroccan cave. The find proves that our north African cave-dwelling ancestors were making 'sophisticated bone tools' much earlier than previously thought and more than 40,000 years before the Neanderthals. The bone is the oldest tool to have been used by the technologically advanced Aterian culture that lived in northern Africa during the Middle Stone Age. This culture made tools that were distinct from similarly-aged sub-Saharan artefacts, suggesting a unique technological industry had developed in North Africa. A 90,000-year-old bone knife (pictured, left) made from an ancient animal rib has been discovered in a Moroccan cave. Pictured (middle, right) are two tools from another cave site in Morocco The tool was discovered in 2012 in Dar es-Soltan 1 cave, which is around 850 feet (260 metres) inland from the Atlantic coast of Morocco. Scientists led by Dr Silvia Bello from the Natural History Museum believe the bone was part of a large mammals rib. They found evidence the bone had been shaped and sharpened into a knife that was just under 5 inches (13cm) long. 'This find is significant because it shows how sophisticated bone tool technology was already around about 100, 000 years ago', Dr Bello told MailOnline. 'Modern humans seemed to have been capable of crafting sophisticated bone tools very early on. 'It also show the existence of a new type of bone tool, with no other example in the rest of Africa.' Scientists say there is very little use-wear pattern on the edge of the bone tool. 'Therefore we suggest it was use to cut soft material', Dr Bello said, although it was not clear at this stage what materials it would have cut. The find (pictured) proves that our cave-dwelling ancestors were making 'sophisticated bone tools' much earlier than previously thought and more than 40,000 years before the Neanderthals The bone is the oldest tool to have been used by the technologically advanced Aterian culture who lived in northern Africa during the Middle Stone Age The layer containing the bone knife has been dated to approximately 90,000 years ago, approximately 55,000 years after the first appearance of the Aterian culture. The Aterian stone tool industry was based in North Africa and is believed to have disappeared around 20,000 years ago. Aterians were capable of a complex and controlled sequence of actions involved in the manufacture of specialised bone knives', said Dr Bello. The tool - and the methods used to create it - are distinct from bone tools of a similar age in southern Africa. However, it is similar to two tools known from the El Mnasra cave site in Morocco which is of a similar age. The tool (pictured) - and the methods used to create it - are distinct from bone tools of a similar age in southern Africa. Specialised bone tools are considered a sign of cognitive complexity The tool was discovered in 2012 in Dar es-Soltan 1 cave, which is around 850 feet (260 metres) inland from the Atlantic coast of Morocco Aterians made specialised bone tools earlier than originally believed and more than 40,000 years before the Neanderthals', said co-author lead author Dr Abdeljalil Bouzouggar from the Institut National des Sciences de l'Archeologie et du Patrimoine in Morocco. The find suggests they were using bones in a way that was unique to North African Aterian culture, according to the paper published in Plos One. Specialised bone tools are considered a sign of cognitive complexity. However, they have been poorly-understood with the Aterian technological complex, so this finding represents a new insight into the development of modern human cognition. The authors also suggest that this new technology may have come about in response to changing resources around 90,000 years ago, but note that more study will be required to support this theory. NASA has tried to play down claims by Russian space officials an ISS leak was sabotage. Speaking on Monday, Dmitry Rogozin, the head of Russian space agency Roskosmos, said that an official investigative report had confirmed their theory. 'It concluded that a manufacturing defect had been ruled out which is important to establish the truth,' he said. Rogozin said the commission's main line of inquiry was that the hole had been drilled deliberately, a position that has been voiced in the past. 'Where it was made will be established by a second commission, which is at work now,' he said. Officials are hoping that secondary investigation will identify the people or persons responsible. However, NASA today issued its own statement playing down the sabotage claims. Scroll down for video Sabotage: Russian astronaut Sergei Prokopyev showed the original 'drilled hole' during a video released by the space agency Roscosmos 'Russian media recently reported that General Director Rogozin said the hole was not a manufacturing defect. Ruling out a manufacturing defect indicates that this is an isolated issue which does not categorically affect future production. 'This conclusion does not necessarily mean the hole was created intentionally or with mal-intent. NASA and Roscosmos are both investigating the incident to determine the cause. ' The International Space Station Program is tentatively planning a spacewalk in November to gather more information, NASA said. Sergei Prokopyev (pictured) explained on a video released by Roscosmos last month how his team located and sealed the tiny hole that created a slight loss of pressure On October 11, American Astronaut Nick Hague and Russian Cosmonaut Alexey Ovchinin will launch to the International Space Station on a Russian Soyuz MS-10 spacecraft from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Administrator Bridenstine is scheduled to attend the launch and plans to meet with Mr. Rogozin. This will be their first in-person meeting. They had a telephone call on September 12 during which they discussed the International Space Station leak. The small hole in the wall of a Russian-made Soyuz capsule docked onto the ISS was located on August On Aug. 29th and quickly sealed up. Officials suggested a number of possible reasons for the appearance of the hole. Initially, it was thought the damage could have been caused by a micrometeorite piercing the spacecraft. An anonymous source said the hole was drilled by a worker who hid their mistake with a seal instead of reporting it. The Soyuz MS-08 (pictured) left Earth on March 21 to transport three members of the Expedition 55 crew to the International Space Station The Russian media speculated that a US astronaut might have sabotaged the spacecraft to delay a possible early return to earth due to alleged sickness of one member of the ISS crew. Rogozin even held phone talks with NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine. The men later released a joint statement which said: 'The Administrator and the General Director noted speculations circulating in the media regarding the possible cause of the incident and agreed on deferring any preliminary conclusions and providing any explanations until the final investigation has been completed. WHAT COULD HAVE CAUSED A HOLE IN THE ISS? Theory one - it was caused by a small meteorite A tiny hole appeared in a Russian space capsule locked to the ISS on 30th August. The 'micro fracture' believed to be around 2mm wide in the $150 billion (115 billion) space station was discovered after astronauts noticed a drop in pressure. European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst reportedly put his finger over the hole before crew patched it with tape. The hole was confirmed repaired by Friday (31 August) after cabin pressure returned to normal. It was initially believed to have been caused by a small meteorite and astronauts used tape to seal the leak after it caused a minor loss of pressure. Theory two - it was made deliberately while in orbit However, as the investigation went on it began to look like the hole was made from someone inside as opposed to outside, either back on Earth or in space, the Russian space agency claimed. Roscosmos chief Dmitry Rogozin said in September that the hole could have been drilled during manufacturing or while in orbit with a 'wavering hand'. He didn't say if he suspected any of the US crew, but the statement has caused some bewilderment. Sources suggest the question of how to fix the hole may have strained relations between Moscow and Houston. Rogozin has since reneged on his statement blaming the media for twisting his words and said that he 'never pointed the finger at U.S. astronauts'. Theory three - it was caused by a worker at Energia A leading theory from an unnamed source at Energia said the hole was made on the ground potentially caused by 'deliberate interference' with suggestions the person responsible may have already been identified. Another anonymous source said the hole was drilled by a worker who hid their mistake with a seal instead of reporting it. An unnamed source at Energia told the Russian news agency RIA Novosti that '[t]he hole was made on the ground'. According to the source, '[t]he person responsible for the act of negligence has been identified'. Another anonymous source said the hole was not made intentionally but by a worker who hid their mistake with a seal instead of reporting it. The patchwork repair lasted the trip up to the ISS but after three weeks in orbit gradually peeled away. Advertisement 'They affirmed the necessity of further close interaction between NASA and Roscosmos technical teams in identifying and eliminating the cause of the leak, as well as continuation of normal ISS operations and NASAs ongoing support of the Roscosmos-led Soyuz investigation. 'They acknowledged the entire crew is dedicated to the safe operation of the station and all docked spacecraft to ensure mission success. 'The Administrator and the Roscosmos General Director agreed to conduct their first face-to-face meeting at the Baikonur Cosmodrome on or about October 10 when the NASA Administrator will visit Russia and Kazakhstan in conjunction with the upcoming Soyuz crew spacecraft launch of American astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Alexy Ovchinin.' Roscosmos director Dmitry Rogozin said that the hole could have been drilled during manufacturing or while in orbit Previously, Rogozin - who once oversaw the space industry as deputy prime minister - admitted it had become difficult to work with NASA. 'Problems with NASA have certainly appeared but not through the fault of NASA,' he said, blaming unnamed American officials for telling the US space agency what to do. He also claimed that SpaceX founder Elon Musk sought to squeeze Russia out of the space launch services market and complained about the US military drone X-37. 'Americans have this thing, the X-37,' Rogozin said. 'We don't understand its purposes. Rather, we do understand, but we have not received an official explanation. 'Essentially, this thing can be used as a weapons carrier.' Apple CEO Tim Cook has hit out at Silicon Valley giants who are obsessed with collecting user data. In an interview with HBO's Vice News Tonight, he countered claims that companies need to siphon user data in order to make their products better. Cook didn't call out any tech firms in particular, but he seemed to be referring to the likes of Facebook and Google. Scroll down for video 'The narrative that some companies will try to get you to believe is: 'I've got to take all of your data to make any service better,'' Cook explained. 'Well, I don't believe them. Whoever's telling you that, it's a bunch of bunk.' Apple has long maintained strict policies over what kinds of data it's allowed to collect from users, as well as how it handles the information. Earlier this year, Apple began requiring developers to clearly communicate how their users' personal data would be used in apps. By comparison, Facebook and Google have repeatedly come under fire for how they treat customer data, with Facebook bearing the brunt of the discourse in particular. Last week, Facebook revealed that it had been hit by a data breach that gave hackers complete access to 50 million users' profiles. The firm then logged an additional 40 million users out of their accounts as a security measure, bringing the total number of users who were possibly affected to 90 million. In an interview with HBO's Vice News Tonight, Apple CEO Tim Cook countered claims that companies need to siphon user data in order to make their products better. Apple has long maintained strict policies over what kinds of data it's allowed to collect from users and how that data is handled. Earlier this year, Apple began requiring developers to clearly communicate how their users' personal data would be used in apps Cook candidly expressed that that kind of data breach wouldn't happen at Apple, where user data is closely guarded, even from Apple itself. 'We're not in the business of building a detailed profile of you,' Cook said. 'The way we go into product design, we challenge ourselves to collect as little as possible. And when we have it, we challenge ourselves to encrypt it in the end.' Apple's critics have often argued that the firm has lost out against competitors because of its reluctance to incorporate user data in its products. For example, some say Apple's Siri could edge out Alexa if it took advantage of user data. Tim Cook seemingly took a swipe at Facebook, which announced late last week that it had been hit by a data breach that gave hackers access to the profiles of at least 50 million users Cook denied this and went on to say that Apple's insistence to respect user data is something that will live on beyond his tenure. 'I think the next person [who runs Apple], I don't want to commit them, but I can't imagine it,' Cook said. 'It's not in my imagination that somebody would just say 'oh, time to change.' I don't see it.' He went on to call privacy one of the most important issues of this century, maintaining that Apple even protects users' data in China. 'We worked with a Chinese company to provide iCloud,' Cook said. 'But, the keys to the data are ours.' Jeff Bezos' space company is in the conceptual design phase of a large lunar lander that it says will provide reusable access to the moon's surface and its resources, Blue Origin said on Wednesday. The lander is part of Blue Origin's broader mission of enabling a future in which millions of people live and work in space, the company said. 'The next logical step in this path is a return to the Moon,' Blue Origin said in a statement. Scroll down for video 'The next logical step in this path is a return to the Moon,' Blue Origin said in a statement. It confirmed it was in the 'conceptual design phase' of the lander development. THE RACE TO THE MOON A new contest, called 'The Moon Race,' was unveiled Monday by Airbus, promising to develop technologies for a trip to the moon in 2024. Participating entities include the European Space Agency, the Mexican Space Agency, Airbus, Blue Origin and Vinci Construction. In the months to come, prize money will be announced, as well as details to apply, the coalition said, according to contest organizers. Advertisement 'To do this we need reusable access to the lunar surface and its resources.' The company, founded by Amazon.com Inc Chief Executive Officer Bezos, has said it aims to land on the moon in about five years. The company offered no details on Wednesday about how it would move from the design phase to moon missions in this time frame. Blue Origin is also developing its New Shepard rocket for short space tourism trips and a heavy-lift launch rocket called New Glenn for satellite launch contracts. Blue's launch vehicles face strong competition from several other aerospace companies, including Elon Musk's SpaceX and Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic. (Reporting by Eric M. Johnson in Seattle Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Frances Kerry) Amazon founder Jeff Bezos recently confirmed that his Blue Origin space-tourism venture will launch a crewed mission sometime in 2019. The revelation was made at the Air Force Association's Air, Space and Cyber Conference in Washington, DC. The comments from the 54-year-old multi-billionaire further fuel the commercial space race as several private companies jostle to become the first to send paying customers into space. Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos is worth an estimated $159 billion making him the wealthiest man on the planet and is using part of this vast fortune to bankroll Blue Origin. SpaceX founder and commercial space-flight trailblazer Elon Musk announced earlier this week that Japanese billionaire and fashion designer Yusaku Maezawa is the first customer to sign-up for a trip around the moon. LOCKHEED MARTIN REVEALS ITS LUNAR LANDER Lockheed Martin has revealed an ambitious plan for a giant lunar lander that could let astronauts roam the lunar surface for two weeks at a time. The 46 foot (14m), single-stage spacecraft can carry up to four astronauts to the lunar surface, where they can stay for up to 14 days before the vehicle's engines blast it back into lunar orbit. Lockheed Martin has revealed an ambitious plan for a giant lunar lander that could let astronauts roam the lunar surface for two weeks at a time. This vehicle would be twice as tall as the Lunar Module used during the Apollo missions to the Moon nearly half a century ago, which carried two astronauts for short stays of no more than a few days. Advertisement Bezos refused to say whether the first suborbital trip on Blue Origin's New Shepard capsule would exclusively host crew members, rather than paying customers. His comments reinforce a timeline the space tourism firm has been publicly teasing for some time. Blue Origin's CEO, Bob Smith, said last year the company was hoping to launch paying passengers in 2018. However, this ambitious goal has been revised to 2020 following a number of test flights. Bezoshas refused to say whether the first suborbital trip on Blue Origin's New Shepard capsule would exclusively host crew members, rather than paying customers. The first tickets are expected to go on sale at some point next year. The space tourism company, headquartered in Kent, Washington, is looking to sell tickets aboard its rocket for around 150,000 to 230,000 ($200,000 to $300,000), according to sources with knowledge of the plans. By comparison, Virgin Galactic started selling tickets more than a decade ago, even while SpaceShipTwo was still in the early stages of development. The company has approximately 700 customers who have paid at least a deposit. Blue Origin is looking to double its current workforce to around 3,000 employees over the next two to three years, according to sources speaking to Reuters. The urgency centers on a rocket dubbed New Glenn. Astronaut Edwin 'Buzz' Aldrin unpacking experiments from the Lunar Module on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission. Photographed by Neil Armstrong, 20 July 1969. The heavy-launch vehicle, which Bezos promises will be able to haul satellites and, eventually, people into orbit, is central to the company's hopes of winning lucrative military and commercial contracts. New Glenn's first-stage booster will be reusable a key piece of Bezos' strategy to lower costs and increase the frequency of launches. Blue Origin executives have stated publicly that test flights will begin within two years. But whether Blue Origin can hit that mark remains to be seen. With the clock ticking on 2020, company engineers are still finalizing details on New Glenn's design and just beginning to build model components that must be put through extreme testing, people familiar with the project said. Blue Origin has been a quieter party in the space race, with Bezos often outshone by billionaire rivals Elon Musk and Richard Branson who head up SpaceX and Virgin Galactic, respectively. The battle of the billionaires between Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk and Richard Branson continues to rage on, with all three firms achieving milestones in recent months. Blue Origin completed its ninth successful test flight in July, SpaceX built on the success of the Falcon 9 launch by declaring the first passenger to go around the moon and Virgin Galactic sent the Unity spacecraft to an altitude of 46,500ft before it went supersonic - the first successful test flight since a catastrophic test in 2014 that killed one pilot and seriously injured another. Blue Origin's test site in West Texas saw the most recent launch in July, when 'Version 2.0' of its crew capsule, outfitted with the large windows that are a distinctive feature of the spacecraft, took off. The capsule carried 12 experiments as well as a test dummy, dubbed 'Mannequin Skywalker,' to measure the environment a human would experience on those flights. The test flight was the first performed under a launch license awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration in August 2017. 'You have to be licensed in order to collect revenue,' Jeff Ashby, a former Nasa astronaut who is director of safety and mission assurance for Blue Origin, told the Next-Generation Suborbital Researchers Conference. 'It was our first revenue flight for payloads: a huge, historic moment for us.' GOING TO SPACE WITH BLUE ORIGIN: HOW IT WORKS The system consists of a pressurised crew capsule atop a reusable 'New Shepard' booster rocket. The two vehicles launch together, accelerating for approximately two and a half minutes, before the engine cuts off. The capsule then separates from the booster to coast quietly into space. After a few minutes of free fall, the booster performs an autonomous rocket-powered vertical landing. The passenger capsule lands softly under parachutes, both ready to be used again. Like previous Blue origin launches, the New Shepard rocket fired into orbit (one) before disconnecting from the passenger capsule (two), and then landing vertically (four and five) back on the launch pad. Shortly after this, the 'Crew Capsule 2.0' pod floated back to the ground (six) Advertisement In October, Bezos said Blue Origin will take tourists into orbit 'within the next 18 months'. The company isn't yet taking reservations or publishing its ticket prices, with would-be riders forced to wait until the firm completes its tests. Non-invasive brain scans could one day be used to assess workers competence on the job. In a new study, researchers have pinpointed key differences in the brain activity of skilled surgeons compared to novices enough that they were able to distinguish between the two based on the scans. The findings could pave the way for more accurate methods of measuring performance among surgeons and other highly skilled professionals. In a new study, researchers have pinpointed key differences in the brain activity of skilled surgeons compared to novices. To monitor their brain activity, researchers fitted each participant with a cap embedded with an array of tiny lasers Measuring motor skill proficiency is critical for the certification of highly skilled individuals in numerous fields, the researchers explain in a new study published to the journal Science Advances. However, conventional measures use subjective metrics that often cannot distinguish between expertise levels. According to the researchers, though, the new method outperforms the standard ways of measuring proficiency in Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS), which is required for certification by the American Board of Surgery. In the study, researchers compared surgical motor skill levels in expert and novice surgeons using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). The team monitored the brain activity of roughly 30 surgeons and trainees during pattern-cutting tasks, according to the Wall Street Journal. These tasks are part of the professional certification tests. To monitor their brain activity, researchers fitted each participant with a cap embedded with an array of tiny lasers. Instead of directly measuring brain activity, this method detects fluctuations in the levels of oxygenated blood flowing to the brain, which signals activity in particular areas, according to WSJ. The team also developed a machine-learning system to analyze the scans. In the study, researchers compared surgical motor skill levels in expert and novice surgeons using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) According to the researchers, novice surgeons experienced increased activity in different areas of the brain than seen in the skilled surgeons. For novices and unskilled medical students, activity spiked in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for planning complex behaviour. Activity in the primary motor cortex, however an area involved in motor function decreased, along with activity in supplemental motor area, which relates to the control of movement. In skilled surgeons, on the other hand, activity in the motor cortex spiked. The researchers say this non-invasive technique could help to solve issues of subjectivity and inconsistencies in FLS score interpretations. According to the researchers, novice surgeons experienced increased activity in different areas of the brain than seen in the skilled surgeons. In skilled surgeons, on the other hand, activity in the motor cortex spiked COULD A BRAIN SCAN SPOT THE NEXT STEVE JOBS? A recent study found distinct brain patterns in both the most and least creative thinkers they studied. In highly original thinkers, activity between three brain regions was particularly strong. These included the default mode network, which is linked to spontaneous thinking, and the executive control network, which lights up when we focus our thoughts. Dr Beaty told MailOnline: 'Interestingly, these brain regions do not usually work together. This suggests that the creative brain might be "wired" differently.' The third, known as the salience network, helps us to prioritise what best deserves our attention in a given moment. 'Our findings suggest that creativity involves an optimal balance between spontaneous and controlled aspects of thinking,' Dr Beaty said. 'Spontaneous brainstorming is important, and it may lead to creative insights on its own. 'But many initial ideas are not the best, so we often need to evaluate and modify them to ensure they fit the creative goal at hand.' Advertisement And, it could even help to predict who might turn out to be particularly skilled in the future, for surgeons and even in other professions. According to the researchers, the approach may be expanded to robustly identify and predict surgical candidates that may achieve faster learning curves for learning complex surgical skills, and by extension, achieve surgical skill mastery with a significantly faster rate than other surgical trainees. Furthermore, these methodologies can be easily applied to other fields, including rehabilitation, brain computer interfaces, robotics, stroke, and rehabilitation therapy. Facebook could be facing a massive fine following its 'biggest ever' hack that affected 50 million users, it has been claimed. Tough new GDPR data protection regulations, which came into force earlier this year, could allows affected users in the EU to file a civil claim, while in the US, the first class action lawsuits have already been filed by users. Facebook's lead regulator in the European Union, the Irish Data Protection Commissioner (DPC), today began an investigation into a massive cyberattack on the social networking site disclosed by the company last week. Scroll down for video Under the new GDPR European privacy regulations, which came into effect in May, breaking privacy laws can result in fines of up to 4 percent of global revenue or 20 million euros, whichever is higher, as opposed to a few hundred thousand euros previously. WHAT COULD HAPPEN TO FACEBOOK? The risks for Facebook depend on how it complied with various laws and regulations, including the new General Data Protection Regulation in Europe. Questions likely to be asked will include whether Facebook was fast enough notifying users of the breach and how well it protected accounts. Protection of people's data falls under the purview of the Federal Trade Commission in the United States, but states could also be interested in making sure local privacy or data protection laws were not violated. In Europe, the Facebook breach and how it was handled would be examined through the lens of the GDPR, which strengthened protection for personal data. Companies can now be fined a percentage of annual revenue if they break GDPR rules. Facebook appeared to have complied with a 72-hour deadline regarding publicly disclosing a hack, which could spare it a fine of more than a billion dollars. Advertisement Facebook said on Friday that hackers had stolen login codes that allowed them to access nearly 50 million Facebook accounts, its worst-ever security breach given the unprecedented level of potential access. 'In particular, the investigation will examine Facebook's compliance with its obligation under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to ensure the security and safeguarding of the personal data it processes,' the DPC said in a statement. Facebook spokeswoman Katy Dormer declined comment on the agency's review. Under the new GDPR European privacy regulations, which came into effect in May, breaking privacy laws can result in fines of up to 4 percent of global revenue or 20 million euros, whichever is higher, as opposed to a few hundred thousand euros previously. As a result, the social network could potentially be hit with a whopping 1.25bn/$1.63bn fine for breaching the Europes General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) - although the actual fine is likely to be smaller. The DPC, which regulates a number of U.S. multinationals with European headquarters in Dublin, said Facebook informed it that their own internal investigation is ongoing and that the company continued to take remedial actions to mitigate the potential risk to users. Facebook said on Tuesday that investigators had determined that the hackers did not access other sites that use the social networking site's single sign-on. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission on Wednesday advised Facebook users to consider changing their passwords and be on the alert for 'imposter scams' targeting them with data stolen from the social networking site. 'If someone calls you out of the blue asking for money or personal information, hang up,' FTC attorney Lisa Weintraub Schifferle said in an alert posted on the agency's website. Some security experts, including a former Facebook executive, said the company may have painted a worst-case scenario when it disclosed the attack on Friday to ensure compliance with the strict new European Union privacy rules. FACEBOOK FACES CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT IN WAKE OF 'WORST EVER' DATA BREACH Facebook last week revealed that it had been hit by a data breach that gave hackers complete access to 50 million users' profiles. The firm then logged an additional 40 million users out of their accounts as a security measure, bringing the total number of users who were possibly affected to 90 million. It didn't take long before the social media giant was hit with a class-action lawsuit. Facebook has been hit with a lawsuit filed Sept. 28th in a California court on behalf of the 50 million users whose 'PII,' or personally identifiable information,' was exposed as a result of the hack. The lawsuit defines PII as names, birthdates, hometowns, addresses, locations, interests, relationships, email addresses, photos and videos - all of which is information commonly shared with Facebook. Facebook is named in a lawsuit filed in California on behalf of the 50 million users whose 'PII,' or personally identifiable information,' was exposed as a result of the hack The plaintiffs, which are Carla Echavarria of California and Derrick Walker of Virginia, claim Facebook's inability to safeguard user data left them vulnerable to identity theft and was an act of negligence. The lawsuit alleges Facebook 'allowed hackers and other nefarious users to take over user accounts and siphon off Personal Information for unsavory and illegal purposes.' They're now suing for statutory damages and penalties. The lawsuit also seeks to represent 'all persons who registered for Facebook accounts in the United States and whose PII was accessed, compromised, or stolen from Facebook in the September 2018 Data Breach.' It's likely that more plaintiffs will sign onto the class-action lawsuit in time. Plaintiffs say in the lawsuit that Facebook's Cambridge Analytica scandal served as a precursor for its future 'negligence'. '[Facebook] knew its data security measures were grossly inadequate by, at the absolute latest, March 2018 when the Cambridge Analytica matter came to light, exposing Facebooks lax and inadequate approach to data security,' according to the court document. 'At that time, Facebook was on notice that its systems were extremely vulnerable to attack, facts [Facebook] already knew given its previous exposures and security problems.' Advertisement GDPR imposes steep penalties if companies fail to follow rules that include a requirement that they disclose breaches within 72 hours of discovery. That is a tight window that security experts say does not give investigators adequate time to determine the impact of the breach. Facebook's latest vulnerability had existed since July 2017, but the company first identified it on Tuesday of last week. Advertisement The staff at London's Dandelyan bar clearly didn't rest on their laurels after coming second in the World's Best Bar Awards 2017. Because it has been named the best bar in the world in 2018, MailOnline Travel can exclusively reveal. The Perrier-sponsored World's 50 Best Bars awards was held in a glittering ceremony at London's iconic Roundhouse today and it's London that dominates this year's list, with U.S watering holes also featuring heavily in the prestigious ranking. Cheers! London's Dandelyan bar, pictured, has been named the best bar in the world in 2018 Dandelyan, which is housed in the luxury Mondrian hotel, debuted on the top 50 list at No.50 in 2015, then jumped to No3 in 2016. It was created by forward-thinking cocktail creator and bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana Two of Dandelyan's cocktail creations, left and right. The focus of Dandelyan is 'to bring a stylish neighbourhood vibe to the glamour of the Mondrian Hotel on London's Southbank, with sustainability and nature to the fore'. Since opening in September 2014, Dandelyan has launched five cocktail menus all with a focus on botany And there was much rejoicing: The Dandelyan team celebrate their bar being named the world's best at London's Roundhouse Hitting the right notes: Last year's No.1, American Bar at The Savoy, pictured, now claims the No.2 position The staff at American Bar pose proudly in front of the bar. It's said to be one of the most historically important bars open today The cocktails at the American Bar almost count as works of art. This one is called Curtain Call Dandelyan, which is housed in the luxury Mondrian hotel, debuted on the top 50 list at No.50 in 2015, then jumped to No3 in 2016. Created by forward-thinking cocktail creator and bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana, the focus of Dandelyan is 'to bring a stylish neighbourhood vibe to the glamour of the Mondrian Hotel on London's Southbank, with sustainability and nature to the fore'. Since opening in September 2014, Dandelyan has launched five cocktail menus all with a focus on botany. This week Mr Chetiyawardana posted a message on social media in which he explained that the bar will soon be 'killed off' and reborn on the same site with the same team but as a reinvented concept. Overall, London celebrates 10 bars on the 2018 list, welcoming four newcomers - Scout (No.28), Three Sheets (No.29), Swift (No.46) and Coupette (No.18), which also wins the Best New Opening Award, sponsored by Thomas Henry. Connaught Bar (No.5) also receives the Heering Legend of the List title, which recognises the bar that has performed most consistently over the 10-year history of the list. Last year's No.1, American Bar at The Savoy, now claims the No.2 position, while established London destinations including Bar Termini (No.6), Oriole (No.17) and Happiness Forgets (No.35) also remain on the list. The US boasts 10 bars on the list with The NoMad (No.4) in New York crowned Best Bar in North America sponsored by Michter's Distillery, for the second consecutive year. New York's Dante cracks the top 10, climbing seven places to No.9, while Employees Only jumps 11 places back to No.26. The city's impressive line-up is completed by Attaboy (No.15), The Dead Rabbit (No.16), and BlackTail (No.41). The US boasts 10 bars on the list with The NoMad (No.4) in New York crowned Best Bar in North America sponsored by Michter's Distillery, for the second consecutive year The bar staff at The NoMad work their magic. The bar's website says: 'Award-winning Bar Director Leo Robitschek has created a beverage program that celebrates classically-focused cocktails, while delving into two new arenas: festive, large-format drinks and a selection of reserve cocktails crafted with rare spirits. An extensive selection of both approachable and sought-after wines and beers are available as well' New York's Dante, pictured, cracks the top 10, climbing seven places to No.9, while Employees Only jumps 11 places back to No.26. The city's impressive line-up is completed by Attaboy (No.15), The Dead Rabbit (No.16), and BlackTail (No.41) San Francisco is represented by two bars: Tommy's (No.40) and Trick Dog (No.44). Chicago celebrates a new entry on to the list with the debut of Lost Lake at No.50. Miami's Sweet Liberty climbs six places to No.21 with the industry paying special tribute to John Lermayer, one of its founders who sadly passed away earlier this year, with the Industry Icon Award, sponsored by Seedlip. Spain also has plenty to celebrate this year with two new entries on the list. Paradiso from Barcelona enters the top 50 at No.37, having been named the One To Watch in 2017, while Salmon Guru from Madrid enters at No.47 - a significant jump following its debut at No.82 in 2017. The city of Paris is represented by three bars again this year with Le Syndicat jumping an impressive 10 places to No.24. Little Red Door now sits at No.33 and Candelaria at No.42. Miami's Sweet Liberty, pictured, climbs six places to No.21 with the industry paying special tribute to John Lermayer, one of its founders who sadly passed away earlier this year, with the Industry Icon Award, sponsored by Seedlip Sweet Liberty's interior is definitely on the hip side - it's an industrial twist on the classic sixties diner theme San Francisco is represented in the top 50 list by two bars: Tommy's (No.40) and Trick Dog (No.44). In this image the staff of Tommy's express their gratitude for featuring in the ranking - and remind San Franciscans how lucky they are to have them Chicago celebrates a new entry on to the list with the debut of Lost Lake, pictured, at No.50 Singapore leads Asia's ranking with five bars featured. Manhattan (No.3) enters the top three and claims the title of Best Bar in Asia, sponsored by Hennessy. Singapore is also represented by Atlas (No.8), Operation Dagger (No.23) and 28 HongKong Street (No.34), while Native jumps 34 places to No.13 to take the Highest Climber Award, sponsored by Nikka Whisky. To add to the city-state's accolades, Singapore-based bartender Joe Schofield, recently of Tippling Club (No.58) and now heading the Sensorium project, has been named the Altos Bartenders' Bartender for his ground-breaking flavour developments. La Factoria in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, comes in at No.36, while Mexico City's Licoreria Limantour climbs to an impressive No.11. Fifty Mils, also located in the Mexican capital, enters the ranking at No.45. Floreria Atlantico (No.14) from Buenos Aires, Argentina, is named Best Bar in South America, sponsored by Asahi. Joining the success in South America is Carnaval in Lima, Peru (No.68), which takes home the Campari One To Watch Award. Licoreria Limantour, pictured, in Mexico City is the eleventh best bar in the world, according to this year's awards Floreria Atlantico (No.14), pictured, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is named Best Bar in South America Sante! Le Syndicat, pictured, in Paris, is the highest-ranking French bar on the list The exterior of Le Syndicat certainly gives nothing away about the cocktail-making magic that goes on inside Singapore leads Asia's ranking with five bars featured. Manhattan (No.3), pictured, enters the top three and claims the title of Best Bar in Asia The exterior of Manhattan certainly makes a statement. You know you're entering a classy establishment as you cross the threshold Atlas, pictured, in Singapore ranks No8 on the list. But its interior is surely the grandest of them all Drinkers at Atlas can quaff away in surroundings that are fit for royalty. To add to Singapore's accolades, Singapore-based bartender Joe Schofield, recently of Tippling Club (No.58) and now heading the Sensorium project, has been named the Altos Bartenders' Bartender for his ground-breaking flavour developments WORLD'S BEST BAR AWARD 2018 - THE HIGHLIGHTS Dandelyan claims The World's Best Bar Award, sponsored by Perrier. The 2018 list features 12 new bars; 10 making their debut, two returning to the list. The UK and USA lead the list, each featuring 10 bars. Four new London bars enter the ranking - Coupette (No.18), Scout (No.28), Three Sheets (No.29) and Swift (No.46). Connaught Bar (No.5) from London is named the 2018 Heering Legend of the List. Entering the list at No.10 is The Old Man in Hong Kong, winning the Highest New Entry Award, sponsored by Torres. The late John Lermayer, co-founder of Sweet Liberty in Miami (No.21), is honoured at the ceremony with the Industry Icon Award, sponsored by Seedlip. Himkok in Oslo, Norway (No.19), is the inaugural recipient of the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award at the global awards. Joe Schofield, recently of Singapore's Tippling Club (No.58), is named the Altos Bartenders' Bartender. Carnaval in Lima, Peru (No.68) is named the Campari One To Watch. Advertisement Himkok (No.19), in Oslo, is the recipient of the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award. This year sees the introduction of this award, presented to the bar with the highest overall sustainability rating, as audited by the Sustainable Restaurant Association. Its 'Flavours of Norway' menu is a celebration of Norwegian drinks-making craft and a tribute to the ingredients it sources from independent farmers and small producers across the country, designed to keep the local flavours and traditions alive. Other notable achievements include the iconic Black Pearl in Melbourne (No.30) honoured as the Best Bar in Australasia, sponsored by Tanqueray. Central Station, in Beirut, Lebanon, re-enters the list at No.27 and is named Best Bar in the Middle East and Africa, sponsored by Botran. Himkok (No.19), pictured, in Oslo, is the recipient of the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award This is the interior of Paradiso in Barcelona - Spain's best bar, according to the 2018 awards A bartender at Paradiso is pictured here alchemising something exotic. The bar came 37th overall The iconic Black Pearl, pictured, in Melbourne (No.30) is honoured this year as the Best Bar in Australasia Central Station, pictured, in Beirut, Lebanon, re-enters the list at No.27 and is named Best Bar in the Middle East and Africa The Clumsies, pictured, in Athens, is the world's seventh best bar, according to the awards WHO DECIDES WHICH BARS MAKE THE WORLD'S BEST BARS LIST? The list is compiled by votes from The World's 50 Best Bars Academy, comprised of more than 500 drinks experts, including renowned bartenders and consultants, drinks writers and cocktail specialists from around the world. The Academy of voters is spread across the globe with the distribution of voters designed to reflect the relative development and sophistication of the drinks sector, and the concentration of quality bars, in each region. Each voter casts seven votes, based on their best bar experiences of the previous 18 months, of which at least three must be for bars located outside the voter's country of residence. Voters are required to remain anonymous and voting is confidential. Advertisement William Drew, Group Editor of The World's 50 Best Bars, said: 'Congratulations to all the bars that have been honoured at tonight's event. It is our privilege to host the Oscars of the bar world and we are thrilled that the key players from 48 of the top 50 bars, along with many others from the cocktail community, have travelled across the globe from their respective homes to be part of this unique event, which brings together the best bartenders on the planet under one roof for an evening of celebration. 'The awards are designed to showcase the world's finest bars, the talented people behind them and the unforgettable experiences they serve up. 'Our aim is to illuminate the artistry of bartending and provide a definitive guide to the finest global destinations for the discerning drinker. The list incorporates grand hotel bars, secretive speakeasies, quirky salons and classic drinking dens - a true celebration of the diversity and universality of drinks culture and a reflection of new and developing bar scenes all over the world.' Visit www.worlds50bestbars.com for more. She opted for an unconventional look on Monday, rocking cactus-print pajamas and teddy bear slippers in public. But Jameela Jamil, who stars in NBC's The Good Place, returned to her usual stunning style on Tuesday when attending an interview on BUILD Series in New York. The 32-year-old actress lived up to her fashionista status in a sensational floral dress by Coco Fennell, which featured stand-out red and white polka dot patterned arms. Stylish: Jameela Jamil, who stars in NBC's The Good Place, returned to her usual stunning style on Tuesday when attending an interview on BUILD Series in New York Promoting the star's slender figure, the delicate attire also had a matching polka dot feature around Jameela's waist area. The dress boasted a daringly low cut-out before ending at a stylish midi-length level. She teamed the chic outfit with a sleek pair of white trainers and a quirky set of strawberry-shaped drop earrings. Bold: The 32-year-old actress lived up to her fashionista status in a sensational floral dress which featured stand-out red and white polka dot patterned arms Chic: Promoting the star's slender figure, the delicate attire also had a matching polka dot feature around Jameela's waist area Cute: She teamed the chic outfit with a sleek pair of white trainers and a quirky set of strawberry-shaped drop earrings With her fringed raven tresses styled in effortless waves, Jameela looked every inch the beauty as she sported a natural coat of make-up along with a statement red lip. The UK native is currently promoting season three of The Good Place, which premiered September 27. The comedic series, which stars Kristen Bell and Ted Danson, follows four humans who are sent to 'The Bad Place' disguised as 'The Good Place' after they die. 'It's the greatest comedy on Earth about ethics,' she told PEOPLE TV. 'In this current climate of some really depressing news, it seems to be bringing people together.' Beauty: The dress boasted a daringly low cut-out before ending at a stylish midi-length level Glam: With her fringed raven tresses styled in effortless waves, Jameela looked every inch the beauty as she sported a natural coat of make-up along with a statement red lip Jameela plays Tahani, a wealthy British socialite, who lands in The Bad Place unexpectedly. Meanwhile Jameela has used the press opportunities to talk about her I Weigh social media movement. 'It's a revolution against shame. It's a page where women weigh themselves in their achievements, in their values, in their family, in their jobs, in their education,' she explained. 'Finally we're not going to reduce women down to just a number on a scale.It's time we take our place as one half of the world and value ourselves as round, multi-faceted individuals.' Revolution: Meanwhile Jameela has used the press opportunities to talk about her I Weigh social media movement His beloved mother, Donda West, died at age 58 in November 2007. And as the painful, eleven year anniversary of his mother's death draws closer, Kanye West has reportedly been 'struggling', an insider close to the rapper claimed to People. The source explained the rapper's struggles occur 'every fall', after his mother died November 10, 2007 from 'pre-existing coronary artery disease and multiple post-operative factors following surgery.' Heart-break: Kanye West has reportedly been struggling as the eleven year anniversary of his mother Donda's death draws near, according to a People report 'If you remember, it was a year ago that this happened almost exactly a year ago,' the source told People. 'It happens every fall as we get close to the anniversary of his mom's death.' In 2016 Kanye was hospitalized after suffering a nervous breakdown, reportedly from a combination of stress, overwork, lack of sleep, dealing with his wife Kim Kardashian's robbery in Paris and the anniversary of his mother's death. Kanye has been open about his heartbreak following the death of his mother, and in a 2015 interview revealed he bore the brunt of the blame following the loss. 'If I had never moved to LA, she'd be alive,' he told Q Magazine. 'I don't want to go far into it because it will bring me to tears.' 'It happens every fall': The source explained the rapper's struggles occur 'every fall', after his mother died November 10, 2007 from 'pre-existing coronary artery disease and multiple post-operative factors following surgery' (pictured September 2018 in New York) The rapper has also faced backlash over his call to 'abolish' then 'amend' the 13th Amendment, which ended slavery in 1865. 'This represents good and American becoming whole again,' the 41-year-old wrote in a selfie of himself wearing a Make America Great Again hat. 'We will no longer outsource to other countries. We build factories here in America and create jobs. We will provide jobs for all who are free from prisons as we abolish the 13th amendment. Message sent with love.' Tragic: Donda West died from heart disease and complications following plastic surgery (pictured May 2007) Kanye later attempted to explain his remarks in two other tweets, writing: 'the 13th Amendment is slavery in disguise meaning it never ended We are the solution that heals.' In the second post he clarified: 'not abolish but. lets amend the 13th amendment We apply everyones opinions to our platform.' In an interview with TMZ, Kanye attempted to clarify his remarks. As the 13th Amendment declared that slavery nor involuntary servitude except as punishment for crime shall exist, West explained: 'Abolish was the wrong language. 'I mis-spoke by saying abolish. Amend is the right language What's beautiful about our Constitution is we can amend it.' Kanye clarified that he was actually talking about the 'exception clause' of the 13th Amendment which allows forced labor in America's prisons. He explained: 'There's people getting paid eight cent a week working for companies that are privately owned. A lot of them are first time offenders. A lot of them are non-violent crimes. 'And then also, we're not dealing with the mental health and the therapy. The majority of people that are in prison are there due to a reaction to a situation that they are in.' Scarlett Johansson and Chris Evans headline a new PSA encouraging people to vote this November - especially if they've never done it before. The spot, which was titled My First Time, took a double entendre, tongue-in-cheek approach to delivering the message, as various people opened up about the first time they ever cast a ballot to the tune of Foreigner's Feels Like The First Time. A number of other big names, including Chadwick Boseman, Rosario Dawson, Mark Ruffalo, Don Cheadle and Zoe Kravitz were featured in the PSA; as well as Emma Gonzalez, David Hogg and Delaney Tarr, three of the most visible survivors of February's shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Star power: Scarlett Johansson and Chris Evans headline a new PSA encouraging people to vote this November - especially if they've never done it before Speaking about Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential run, Evans said, 'My first time with a woman was 2016 - it felt good, but it ended badly.' Johansson said she 'was nervous,' while Dawson said she found the experience to be 'amazing.' Kravitz's first time casting a ballot occurred 'in the back of a firehouse,' and Cheadle's 'was in a church.' The references continued as Ruffalo mused, 'I mean, I didn't know how to do it,' as Boseman - speaking about ballots - said it was a learning process of 'where to put it, you know, where to slide it in.' Anxious: The actress recalled as she 'was nervous' in her first time at the ballot box Superstar: Black Panther leading man Chadwick Boseman was among the famous faces in the clip Gorgeous: Actress Rosario Dawson looked amazing in her spot in the PSA Sacrosanct: Don Cheadle reminded viewers of the struggles Americans have gone through to gain voting rights Kravitz put the message back on point in saying, 'So finally, you know, I just went and I just did it: I voted!' Cheadle, referring to the civil rights movement, said that since his parents only received their voting rights in 1965, he votes every chance he gets. Gonzalez said, 'We have the numbers, we have the power, we can do this,' while Black Panther's leading man said, 'Let's rise up, register and let our voices be heard!' Yukking it up: Zoe Kravitz laughed at the double entendre nature of the clip Memories: The Marvel Universe hunk recalled how he voted for Hilary Clinton two years ago Important detail: Parkland survivor Delaney Tarr said, 'You can't vote if you don't fill out the forms and register: it takes like two minutes' Familiar faces: David Hogg and Emma Gonzalez have been among the most visible survivors of the February shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Tarr encouraged potential voters to go to the March For Our Lives site to register to vote. She said,'You can't vote if you don't fill out the forms and register: it takes like two minutes.' The PSA was produced in a joint effort by the organizations March For Our Lives and We Stand United. Voters will take to the ballot box for the midterm elections on November 6. She risked a wardrobe malfunction when she dramatically left the Love Island villa in Spain back in June. And reality star Natasha Webster almost did it again when she went for a beauty treatment on Tuesday. The 24-year-old slipped into a racy swimsuit that showed off some underboob while enjoying a salt float bath in Perth. Remember me? Love Island Australia's Natasha Webster risks a wardrobe malfunction as she shows off some underboob in a racy cut-out swimsuit The one-piece was distinct in design, featuring a large cut-out at the midsection and a small bar of fabric at the top, which barely covered Natasha's ample cleavage. It also accentuated the blonde beauty's very tanned and toned physique, and helped provide quite the sexy social media upload. Natasha was eliminated from Love Island Australia when the show aired earlier this year, after failing to form a connection with any male contestants. And while her exit did not come as a surprise for some viewers, her slight wardrobe malfunction certainly raised some eyebrows. She left little to the imagination in a white bralet and red miniskirt, which at one point revealed more than she bargained for as she made her exit. Floating on air: The 24-year-old slipped into a racy cut-out swimsuit that showed off some serious underboob as she enjoyed a salt float bath in Perth The salon owner from Perth suspected she would be sent home earlier in the episode after it was revealed that one female contestant would be eliminated. Natasha made her mark on the show as an ambitious blonde, who openly expressed her desire to find a man who owns a boat. She also made headlines after comments made about Justin Bieber. Whoops! Natasha risked a wardrobe malfunction when she dramatically left the Love Island villa back in June Earlier this year, she was mocked by the show's own narrator, Eoghan McDermott, for signing a non-disclosure agreement after allegedly spending time with the pop star. Natasha played a game of 'spin the bottle' with her co-stars, during which she confessed to 'spending two nights with one of the world's biggest pop stars.' When her fellow Islanders asked Natasha to identify the mystery celebrity, she claimed she couldn't reveal his name. 'Secrets! I'm not allowed to tell. It was a pretty fun two nights,' she said. He has been described as one of the sexiest men in the world. And on Tuesday, Thor actor Chris Hemsworth shared the secrets behind his perfectly sculpted physique. The 35-year-old actor told Men's Health that he only trains for 20 minutes per day, six days a week to maintain his muscular frame. How to get a body like Chris Hemsworth: The Thor star has revealed his workout regimen, admitting he only trains for 20 minutes a day 'I can do a 20-minute workout now for six days a week. I can find [time for] that anywhere,' he explained. Chris added that he focuses more on functional training and less on workouts that require heavy equipment. 'I do feel that if you work off a Tabata system or a HIIT style, it makes for such better improvements,' he said. What a hunk! Chris shared the secrets behind his perfectly sculpted physique in an interview with Men's Health magazine this week Buff: Chris explained that he focuses more on functional training and less on workouts that require heavy equipment The father-of-three, who is married to Spanish actress Elsa Pataky, further claimed that staying on the move helps him keep motivated. 'Theres something about people waiting around to get motivated and move, but the movement, I find, dictates the motivation. If I know that and trust that theory, the motivation follows,' he said. It comes after Chris stepped out with his parents Leonie and Craig on the red carpet at the San Sebastian Film Festival in Spain over the weekend. Family affair! It comes after Chris stepped out with his parents Leonie (left) and Craig (right) on the red carpet at the San Sebastian Film Festival in Spain over the weekend Man of the hour: The premiere of Chris' new film, Bad Times at the El Royale, coincided with the festival's closing night on Saturday The Australian star couldn't wipe the smile off his face while posing for photographs in a burgundy suit and navy collared shirt. The premiere of his new film, Bad Times at the El Royale, coincided with the festival's closing night on Saturday. He later took to stage with the film's producer Drew Goddard to present the movie, and reportedly spoke in Spanish, his wife's native language. Chris and Elsa, who married in 2010, share three children: daughter India Rose, six, and twin sons Sasha and Tristan, four. She is renowned for her striking sense of sartorial style, and Australian actor Cate Blanchett did not disappoint at Paris Fashion Week on Tuesday. Cate, 49, donned an all-black ensemble that recalled '80s glitz and glam for the Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2019 showing at Paris Fashion Week. The blonde A-lister wowed onlookers in her black Louis Vuitton dinner jacket with sparkly embellished detailing, including a hot-rod style fire motif on the chest and sleeves. Scroll down for video Puttin' on the glitz! Cate Blanchett (pictured) dazzled in a retro '80s style outfit at the Paris Fashion Week Louis Vuitton showing on Tuesday She wore the jacket with the cuffs rolled up to reveal the iconic Louis Vuitton monogram underneath, over a matching black shirt with similar patterned detailing on the collar and chest. Cate teamed her rockabilly style jacket and shirt with form-fitting black trousers and black pumps. The Ocean's 8 actor accessorised her look with large, mismatched ear drop earrings, a glittery black medallion necklace and a black clutch bag. Blonde ambition: Cate, 49, donned an all-black ensemble that recalled '80s glitz and glam for the Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2019 showing at Paris Fashion Week on Tuesday The mum-of-four looked fresh faced as she arrived for the couture showing, choosing a light trace of eyeliner and cherry red lipstick for her makeup palette. Cate was radiant as she waved to onlookers who had gathered outside the event, with her blonde shoulder-length hair out in loose waves. The two-time Oscar winner shares four kids - Dashiell, 16, Roman, 14, Ignatius, 10, and Edith, four - with her theatre director husband Andrew Upton. Rockabilly rebel: The blonde A-lister wowed onlookers, donning a black Louis Vuitton dinner jacket with sparkly embellished detailing, including a hot-rod style fire motif on the chest and sleeves Despite her natural beauty and flair for fashion, Cate revealed that her children think she's 'really uncool and embarrassing' during an appearance on the The Jonathan Ross back in September. She said: 'They do and they don't [watch my films.] My son gave me some great career advice a few years ago. He said, "Mum, when are you going to make a blockbuster?" 'I said, "I was in Lord of the Rings!" And he said, "Yeah for about 30 seconds." So it didn't really count. I had no brownie points with my children!' Wall-to-wall cool: She wore the jacket with the sleeves rolled up to reveal the iconic Louis Vuitton pattern underneath, over a matching black shirt with similar patterned detailing on the collar and chest Cate's new movie, The House with A Clock In Its Walls, stars Cate as Florence Zimmerman, a witch who befriends her neighbour Jonathan (Jack Black), who is on a quest with an orphan named Lewis (Owen Vaccaro) to locate a clock with doomsday powers. Cate recently told Who magazine said that she consulted her children because it is important to consider whether a film will reach its intended audience. 'I seek their opinions all the time. Particularly with a film like [The House with a Clock in Its Walls], you want to know, "Is this something you want to go and see?"' she said. Bejewelled beauty: The Ocean's 8 actor accessorised her look with large, mismatched ear drop earrings, a glittery black medallion necklace and a black clutch bag She gave birth to her first child just over three months ago. And Eva Longoria stepped out in New York on Tuesday without son Santiago. The 43-year-old actress showcased her stunning figuring in all black ensemble that highlighted her cleavage for her solo outing. Stunning:Eva Longoria stepped out in New York on Tuesday in a chic look Made up of a blazer with white stripes down the sleeves and matching slacks, it was the low cut top underneath that drew attention to the Desperate Housewives actress's ample bosom. She added a couple inches to he 5ft 2in frame with strappy black stilettos and made sure to flash her pearly whites for the camera. Longoria pulled her caramel tresses into a tight ponytail that fell across her back, and kept accessories simply, opting for a thin gold necklace and simple diamond earrings. She painted her lips a nude pink and highlighted her cheekbones with a touch of blush. The Grand Hotel producer appeared to be on her way into The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. which she was set to appear on Tuesday night. Gorgeous: The 43-year-old actress showcased her stunning figuring in all black ensemble that highlighted her cleavage Beautiful: Made up of a blazer with white stripes down the sleeves and matching slacks, it was the low cut top underneath that drew attention to the Desperate Housewives actress's ample bosom She and her husband Jose Antonio Baston married in May 2016 in Mexico. They welcomed their first little bundle of joy, a boy named Santiago, in June. 'Just going on a new journey with him and being a witness to his life is pretty exciting,' she told E! News back in August. So chic: Eva donned a white blouse and black heels to the special NYC screening of Reversing Roe on Tuesday night Kim Kardashian and her third husband Kanye West's eldest daughter North is still having trouble accepting the fact that she has a brother Saint, 2; and sister Chicago, 9 months. 'North acts like an only child at all times. I think she's a little confused,' the 37-year-old KUWTK reality star said on Ashley Graham's podcast Pretty Big Deal on Tuesday. 'She's beyond jealousy now. She's just like, "It's my world." She said to me the other day, "Mom, we just need to have another baby brother so that Saint can just leave me alone. So the girls can be on this side of the house and the boys can be on that side of the house."' 'North acts like an only child at all times': Kim Kardashian and her third husband Kanye West's eldest daughter North (R) is still having trouble accepting the fact that she has a brother Saint, 2; and sister Chicago, 9 months (pictured April 23) The 37-year-old KUWTK reality star said on Ashley Graham's (R) podcast Pretty Big Deal: 'I think she's a little confused. She's beyond jealousy now. She's just like, "It's my world"' Kim's five-year-old princess - nicknamed 'Thrilla' - made her runway modeling debut on the catwalk of the L.O.L. Surprise presentation in Palisades Park on September 22. 'She has a sign on her door that says, "No boys allowed,"' the wrongful incarceration advocate added. 'She won't even let Saint step foot in her room. If he does or if he's with me and I have to take care of both of them, it's like full war.' Kardashian then gushed that her son was 'the nicest human being on the planet' and the boy recently told her 'Mom, you're my best friend.' Kardashian continued: 'She said to me the other day, "Mom, we just need to have another baby brother so that Saint can just leave me alone. So the girls can be on this side of the house and the boys can be on that side of the house"' (pictured Monday) 'Thrilla': Kim's five-year-old princess made her runway modeling debut on the catwalk of the L.O.L. Surprise presentation in Palisades Park on September 22 The wrongful incarceration advocate added: 'She has a sign on her door that says, "No boys allowed." 'She won't even let Saint step foot in her room. If he does or if he's with me and I have to take care of both of them, it's like full war' Little brother and sister: The Selfish author then gushed that her son Saint (L) was 'the nicest human being on the planet' and the boy recently told her 'Mom, you're my best friend' (pictured last Wednesday) Her troubled 41-year-old husband (now known as 'Ye') has been facing intense backlash over his call to 'abolish' then 'amend' the 13th Amendment, which ended slavery back in 1865. The Donald Trump supporter - who plans on running for POTUS in 2024 - will fly to Africa in two weeks to finish his delayed ninth studio album Yandhi, which will now drop November 23. Catch more of the Glam Masters producer and the rest of her family on the 15th season of Keeping Up with the Kardashians, which airs Sundays on E! In the sunken place? Her troubled 41-year-old husband (now known as 'Ye') has been facing intense backlash over his call to 'abolish' then 'amend' the 13th Amendment, which ended slavery back in 1865 (pictured Sunday) Running for POTUS in 2024: The Donald Trump supporter will fly to Africa in two weeks to finish his ninth studio album Yandhi, which will now drop November 23 (pictured Saturday) She found fame on reality show Chrisley Knows Best with husband Todd. And now Julie Chrisley is speaking out about her breast cancer diagnosis six years ago that resulted in a double mastectomy. She told The Tennessean newspaper that it was her husband who pushed her to get a mammogram when she was reluctant to do so and that his insistence saved her life. He saved her life: Chrisley Knows Best star Julie says she has husband Todd to thank after he nagged her to get a mamogram at 39 that revealed she had breast cancer Julie was 39 in 2012 and had no history of breast cancer in her family. But Todd urged her to get a screening because two of his friends had cancer. 'I did it to appease him so he would shut up and leave me alone,' Julie, 45, told The Tennessean in an interview to promote National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The mammogram picked up a lump in one breast and after having a biopsy, her doctor informed her she had breast cancer. She and Todd agreed that she should have her breasts removed since it lessened the chance of the cancer reoccurring. 'From the time I was literally in the sixth grade I had these huge boobs, that everybody was like, oh my gosh, Julie has these great boobs,' she explained. 'But I had a 6-year-old. I had to do whatever I had to do to be around for my kids.' Surgery: In 2012, two years before the couple, pictured in April 2017, launched their reality show, Julie had a double mastectomy followed by reconstructive surgery and breast implants She underwent the procedure and fortunately, the cancer had not spread to her lymph nodes and she did not have to undergo chemotherapy. A few weeks later she had reconstructive surgery and implants which, she said, left her 'feeling like a new woman.' In 2014, she and Todd, a multimillionaire real estate mogul, launched their reality show Chrisley Knows Best on USA Network. Julie and Todd, who reside in Nashville, share three children - Chase, 22, Savannah, 21, and Grayson, 12. Todd also has two kids from his first marriage - Lindsie, 29, and Kyle, 27. Great British Bake Off's Prue Leith has admitted she's 'lucky' to have found love again with husband John Playfair. The 78-year-old baking judge confessed she wasn't open to marrying again so late in life until she met the fashion designer and the pair were happy to stay unmarried for the five years they dated. Prue's revelations came as she graces the cover of November's Good Housekeeping, also chatting about her love of food and eccentric fashion choices. Thrilled: Great British Bake Off's Prue Leith has admitted she's 'lucky' to have found love again with husband John Playfair Prue tied the knot with John in 2016 after five years together, and the star said that she's never been happier since becoming a wife again, despite the couple previously vowing they were happy remaining just partners. The South African cook was previously married to author Rayne Kruger from 1974 to 2002, when he died at the age of 80. She said: 'I am [very happy]. Not least because I remarried two years ago. I've been with John [Playfair] now for seven years, it took us five years to decide to do it. 'It just seemed like, 'We're so old, what's the point really?' Anyhow, we did it. It's been absolutely wonderful. That made me really happy because I'd be single for 14 years I thought that was it. At my age, you don't expect to fall in love again, so I've been really lucky. Over the moon: Prue tied the knot with John in 2016 after five years together,despite the couple previously vowing they were happy remaining just partners Delighted: The Bake Off judge, 78, told Good Housekeeping she's been 'very lucky' to have found love again so late in life 'I've never been very good at looking forward or for that matter, looking back. I really do live in the present and so I've always been very conscious of how happy I am. 'It sounds so smug, but the fact is, I had a really happy childhood. I had nothing but encouragement from my parents and tolerance when I was being an absolute idiot. 'And I had a terrific career in food and married a wonderful man. We had two children, who are still adored, they adore me and we're very close. 'Rayne was 20 years older than me. He died when he was 80, so he had a really good life. But I didn't think my life was over then, I thought ''Right, my life has changed, I'm now going to be a good grandmother.'' Beloved: Since taking over from Mary Berry as a Bake Off judge, Prue has won over fans with her firm but fair judging Proud: Prue went onto explain that she despite decades of experience in cooking and baking, she still gets a kick out of being recognised in the street since joining Bake Off last year Prue has become a fan favourite since she joined Bake Off upon its move to Channel 4 last year, and despite much doubt the show would flop upon its move from the BBC, the format has been bigger and better than ever. Despite decades of experience in cooking and baking, Pue added she still gets a kick out of being recognised in the street. 'I'm such an egotist I love it! I like the attention,' she said. 'Before Bake Off, frankly, if you'd asked most people on the bus if they'd ever heard of me, it would probably only have been those aged over 55. But if they were 15, they wouldn't have, and that's the difference with Bake Off it's loved across the generations.' Lovely: The South African cook also said that her distinctive fashion sense comes from a love of clashing bright colours with contrasting accessories As a connoisseur of baking and sweet treats, Prue cannot shy away from a cheeky indulgence, but went onto add that since getting older she's become more conscious of the food she eats. She said: 'I do [eat healthily] but I won't be a martyr about it. I would never eat a salad without dressing there's no point! I don't generally eat a lot of carbs. 'Fortunately, as I've gotten older I can't drink as much as I used to. When I was young I could knock off a bottle of wine and then get up in the morning and feel fine. Now if I have more than two glasses I know about it in the morning. 'I'm teased on Bake Off because I say, ''That's not worth the calories,'' but that's because I always think in calories. I've been in food so long, I'm very aware.' The full interview appears in the November issue of Good Housekeeping, on sale 3rd October Prue has also sent fans wild with an array of colourful outfits during her appearances in the Bake Off tents, and she admitted that she's less interested in fashion but more in wearing bright looks. She said: 'Everyone says I am into fashion but I'm not. What I like is colour. If I'm wearing a green dress, I want to have a necklace and earrings that I think look good with it, so I've always been rather excessive. My brother used to say I dress like a Christmas tree!' The full interview appears in the November issue of Good Housekeeping, on sale 3rd October. For further exclusive content, please go to goodhousekeeping.co.uk. Talk about an awkward living arrangement. Willem Dafoe once shared a loft with his girlfriend... and the man she left for him. The actor opened up to Esquire about his early days as a struggling actor, when he became romantically involved with his Wooster Group theater director Elizabeth LeCompte, who was dating fellow actor and group member Spalding Gray at the time. Awkward: Willem Dafoe has revealed he once shared a loft with his partner... and the man she left for him 'It was complicated, because we were all working together,' Dafoe recalled. 'In fact, the three of us lived in the same loft, but we divided it in half.' The couple went on to spend 27 years together and produce one son Jack now 36. One of eight children to a father doctor and nurse mother, Willem revealed he was the only one his parents didn't put through school because he didn't go into the medical field. 'My parents were like, "When you really know what you want to do, well help you",' he said. Three's company: The actor opened up to Esquire about his early days as a struggling actor, when he became romantically involved with his Wooster Group theater director Elizabeth LeCompte, who was dating fellow actor and group member and Spalding Gray at the time (pictured 2003) 'They put all my brothers and sisters through undergraduate and graduate school. Me, nothing, because they thought I was goofing around, but I was okay with that.' Awkward living arangement: 'It was complicated, because we were all working together,' Dafoe recalled. 'In fact, the three of us lived in the same loft, but we divided it in half.' He revealed he worked part-time at a bindery and then a luncheonette counter: 'I knew that if I really needed money, it would be a phone call away, but I kind of enjoyed the romance of living paycheck to paycheck.' Now a three-time Oscar nominee, the star revealed he has spent the last 40 years documenting almost every single day in journals. 'Ive got books and books and books,' he said. 'Theyre very practical. Not even reflective. Just reporting as an exercise to learn how to express myself. I also write down jokes, phone numbers, reminders, things I heard, things I saw.' However almost all of them are now almost completely illegible: despite keeping his hundreds of journals in watertight storage, a change in temperature caused the ink to seep though the pages, stacking his dense, slanted lines of handwriting on top of each other. Going it alone: One of eight children to a father doctor and nurse mother, Willem revealed he was the only one his parents didn't put through school because he didn't go into the medical field 'Sometimes the page will be totally indecipherable, and then certain words will stick out, and theyre really significant. Its freakylike, Ouija-board time. Really beautiful,' he said. Save on rent: Actor Spalding was dating Dafoe's baby momma-to-be, and continued living with them But he added: 'I dont really go back. I never read them.' Among Dafoe's upcoming projects is Aquaman, in which he plays Atlantean scientist Nuidis Vulko. 'A lot is on Jason Momoas shoulders,' he said. 'But a lot will depend on the world, which is quite spectacular.' He's also set to play Vincent Van Gogh in At Eternity's Gate released next month. Director Julian Schnabel told the magazine he had no issue with 63-year-old playing an artist who committed suicide at 37. 'Vincent van Gogh was pretty world-weary and torn up by 37, and I think Willem is in pretty good shape for a 63-year-old guy,' he said. 'I never thought of using another actor, Schnabel says. Theres nobody else who could have done what he did.' Bad guy: Dafoe played Norman Osbourne AKA the Green Goblin in the original Spider-Man movie Despite being one of the most prolific and diverse movie actors around, Dafoe insisted he was not tempted by the 'golden age' of television. 'Not at all,' he said. 'TV is what everyone talks about now. In many cases, its where the talent is going.' But, he added, 'theres a comfort in TV. Its like getting a circle of friends for free. 'When youve got an hour and a half to lay something out there, its more of a confrontation. It allows more of a shift of perspective and a greater possibility to challenge how you think.' Willem has been married to Italian actress and director Giada Colagrande since 2005. Australian comedian Dave Hughes appeared to get an endorsement by Donald Trump last month when the the US President tweeted his name on his infamous Twitter account. Trump was, of course, referring to US Republican congressman Dave Hughes, rather than the popular funnyman. But that didn't stop Dave from firing back at the time, criticising Trump for not 'proof reading' his Tweets when Trump made a spelling mistake. Appearing on Today Extra on Tuesday, the 47-year-old was asked by hosts David Campbell and Sonja Kruger about the now infamous social media exchange. 'I think me, him and Kanye should get in a room together': Dave Hughes spoke about THAT Donald Trump Tweet when he appeared on Today Extra on Wednesday 'The Trumpster has given you a shout out on Twitter!' David remarked . 'I mean usually he just bags people out..' he continued. 'Yeah look I didn't even realise I was running for congress in Minnesota,' the comedian cheekily responded. Cheeky: 'You know what, I'm not really strong on the second Amendmen...' the host poked fun at the President of the United States spelling AGAIN 'But I'm happy to get involved there..' As the trio laughed, the host of Ten's Hughesy: We Have a Problem didn't miss a beat, blasting Trump for his spelling, yet again. 'You know what, I'm not really strong on the second Amendmen,' he said. 'He should actually use spell check..it's Amendment I think Donald...' And in perhaps a swipe at Kanye West's recent Trump-infused meltdown on Saturday Night Live over the weekend, Hughsey ended the segment with a perhaps not-so-sincere idea. 'I think me, him and Kanye should get in a room together and we can solve the worlds problems I reckon,' he said. Last month during the US midterm election, Trump tweeted to his 54 million followers 'Dave Hughes is running for Congress in the Great State of Minnesota', referring to the vital mid-western swing state. That Tweet: Last month during the US midterm election, Trump tweeted to his 54 million followers 'Dave Hughes is running for Congress in the Great State of Minnesota', referring to the vital mid-western swing state 'He will help us accomplish our America First policies, is strong on crime, the border, our second Amendmen (sic), trade, military and vets,' he added. 'Running against [Nancy] Pelosi Liberal Puppet Petterson. Dave has my total endorsement.' The day after the Tweet went live, the comedian told that despite having a social media free Sunday, he chose to fire back a tweet. 'Can you please proof read your tweets before you press send Mr President? I'm not strong on the 2nd Amendment,' he shot back, with the hashtag #fakenews. 'I really was trying to do a 'No Social Media Sunday' but when the President of the Free World gives you his endorsement you have to get involved,' he told news.com.au. Fake News: The day after the Tweet went live, the comedian told that despite having a social media free Sunday, he chose to fire back a tweet Fans have been patiently waiting for a close-up of Porsha Williams' sparkler after she revealed she was not only pregnant, but engaged, earlier in the week. And the wait is finally over with the Real Housewives Of Atlanta star and her ring designer taking to social media to share some close up shots on Tuesday. The 37-year-old's fiance of one-year, Dennis McKinley, 38, went with New York based designer Richie Rich to perfect the oval shaped 13 carat colorless diamond that was set in a white gold band of more than four carats of additional sparklers according to US Weekly. Blinding: The wait to see Porsha William's engagement ring was finally over on Tuesday when the Real Housewives Of Atlanta star and her ring designer took to social media to share some close ups Great choice: The 37-year-old's fiance of one-year, Dennis McKinley, 38, went with New York based designer Richie Rich to perfect the oval shaped 13 carat colorless diamond that was according to Us Weekly was set in a white gold band of more than four carats of additional sparklers 'Congratulations @porsha4real #RichieRichDidTheRing,' he captioned. Richie also revealed in the video post that it was a colorless diamond of 13 carats. US Weekly also revealed on Tuesday that the sparkler, that's estimated to be worth in the upper six-figure region, took 14 days to make. 'McKinley had a hand in planning the design for his fiancee,' they reported. Not a quick project: Us Weekly also revealed on Tuesday that the sparkler, that's estimated to be worth in the upper six-figure region, took 14 days to make Surprise! Porsha made the official announcement on Monday when she shared a series of photos from the engagement 'He decided on the setting after seeing a few different styles and flew up to NYC to pick it up.' The video of the masterpiece also showcased a sweet engravement on the inside that read: 'Porsha McKinley 2018' with a love heart. Porsha made the official announcement on Monday when she shared a series of photos from the engagement. Well thought out: 'McKinley had a hand in planning the design for his fiancee,' Us reported One of a kind: The video of the masterpiece also showcased a sweet engravement on the inside that read: 'Porsha McKinley 2018' with a love heart 'I said YES,' she captioned - before captioning another shot: 'Matter of fact I said HELL YESSSS lol!! The news comes after the reality star revealed last month that she was pregnant with her first child. Porsha has said she doesn't know the sex of their baby, but has hinted that her unborn child may be a girl. Happy times: 'I said YES,' she captioned - before captioning another shot: 'Matter of fact I said HELL YESSSS lol!! Found love: Porsha and her beau Dennis found love with each other one year ago On Instagram recently, the reality star commented on a post of four adorable baby girls sleeping in a hair salon, writing that she couldn't wait til her own joined the pack. 'Omg I wish my baby was out !! I would have her right there getting done up lol,' she wrote - hinting she has a girl on the way. And it wasn't long before many users took to the social media site to ask the Real Housewives Of Atlanta star if it meant she was having a girl. Colorful: Porsha stunned in a fuchsia pink dress while Dennis opted for white Porsha however, who opted not to respond, revealed earlier in the day that she felt as if she's having a boy. Speaking to Bravo's Daily Dish, she said: 'Today, the way the baby was jumping and doing, like, aerobics, probably in there doing... Crossfit, it's probably a boy'. 'The baby was, like, super-duper active.' Double celebration! RHOA's pregnant star Porsha Williams is engaged to Dennis McKinley as she tells fans to 'feed off of good energy' Porsha first shared the wonderful baby news on September 19, revealing that as much as she was excited, she was also a little scared. 'When I found out I was pregnant, I was excited [but] I had mixed feelings. The other feeling that I had beside excitement was fear,' the reality star told People. 'I've had a miscarriage before in my past, which I've also been open about because I suffer with fibroids and had to have a myomectomy,' she added. Rocking that ring: Porsha's engagement band was the star of a photo as she posed with friends 'So just the fear of, "Is the baby going to be okay? Will I make it full term?" All those questions that you ask if you've had a miscarriage before.' But she is learning how to cope with her fear. 'Going into the first appointment and being able to see baby and hear baby and know that baby is fine, then I can really wrap my mind around actually becoming a mommy,' she explained. Baby girl? Taking to Instagram on Friday, the 37-year-old commented on a post of four adorable baby girls sleeping in a hair salon, writing that she couldn't wait til her own joined the pack And Porsha couldn't help but gush over her man Dennis, who's she's been dating for one year. 'The thought of me getting that blessing after praying for it for so long and getting that blessing with someone who is just as excited as me its Dennis first child, just like me and its something weve both always wanted Its like a dream come true,' she said. 'I believe hes probably shed more tears during the process than me. Its just the sweetest moment of my life right now.' Good news: Porsha Williams is pregnant with her first child with boyfriend of one year, Dennis McKinley. The 37-year-old reality TV wonder shared the news on Wednesday with People 'The pregnancy came from the left, but it definitely has brought us closer together because you realize when it sets in that you are actually bringing a life to this world, that you have become family overnight,' she said. 'So now a lot of the things that we had talked about are a reality, and we work really hard at wanting to be a good couple and build a strong foundation for our new family that were going to have.' And once again hinting it may be a girl, Porsha said she didn't like Dennis' name suggestion of Porsha Jr. for their daughter. 'One of the names that he has absolutely settled on Im not settled on it yet is PJ. PJ stands for Porsha Jr. He wants to name our daughter Porsha Jr.' He's playing the titular role in The House That Jack Built. And Matt Dillon looked every inch the movie star as he was spotted at the Paris premiere of the Lars von Trier film on Tuesday. The 54-year-old actor cut a casual figure in a black jacket and grey jeans as he was joined by his girlfriend Roberta Mastromichele. Movie star: Matt Dillon, 54, was at the Paris premiere of The House That Jack Built on Tuesday The couple looked loved up as Matt put his arm around Roberta during their strut down the red carpet of the UGC cinema Les Halles. The There's Something About Mary actor - who has reportedly been linked to Cameron Diaz, Brooke Shields, Heather Graham, and Denise Richards - has been dating his girlfriend since 2014. The duo were first spotted together in Italy and France in 2015, and have subsequently returned to the Italian capital regularly. The House That Jack Built follows Jack, a serial killer, over the course of 12 years in the 1970s and 1980s during his murder in the state of Washington. Cute couple: The actor cut a casual figure in a black jacket and grey jeans as he was joined by his girlfriend Roberta Mastromichele The film marks a return for director Lars von Trier to the Cannes Film Festival, where the movie debuted in May. Speaking in February, Von Trier explained the projects origins as inspired by Donald Trump's presidency: 'The House That Jack Built celebrates the idea that life is evil and soulless, which is sadly proven by the recent rise of the Homo trumpus the rat king.' Meanwhile, Matt played the lead on M. Night Shyamalan's FOX television show Wayward Pines for the first season, but did not return for Season 2 in 2016. Loved up: The couple looked loved up as Matt put his arm around Roberta during their strut down the red carpet of the UGC cinema Les Halles He also starred in Zach Braff's directed film, Going In Style, with Michael Caine and Morgan Freeman in 2017. And Matt recently wrapped filming Honey In The Head with Emily Mortimer. Honey In The Head is an English language remake of the hit German film, Honig Im Kopf, otherwise known as Head Full of Honey, with both films being directed by writer Til Schweiger, who also starred in the original film. Brooke Blurton is set to walk out on Nick Cummins during Wednesday's penultimate episode of The Bachelor. And ahead of the dramatic scenes, former contestant Cassandra Wood - who is rumoured to be secretly dating Nick - has spoken about Brooke's exit. The 24-year-old accounting student told KIIS FM's The Kyle & Jackie O Show that it is possible the youth worker realised she just wasn't interested in Nick, or vice versa. Scroll down for video 'Maybe she realised he just wasn't interested in her?' The Bachelor's Cass Wood (pictured) teased Brooke Blurton's departure before the finale on Wednesday's Kyle and Jackie O Show She said: 'Brooke got the [Bach Pad] key and all these dates with him. 'I think she did get invested in him and maybe, by the end of it, I'm not really sure what happened... maybe she realised he wasn't the one for her? 'Or maybe she could see, like... she realised he just wasn't interested in her?' Fizzled out? 'I think she did get invested in him and maybe, by the end of it, I'm not really sure what happened... maybe she realised he wasn't the one for her?' Cassandra said. Pictured: Brooke Blurton Despite Brooke still being a finalist on the show alongside Brittany Hockley and Sophie Tieman, the 23-year-old slipped up during an interview with NW on Monday. When asked whether she was in love with Nick, Brooke noticeably spoke about their relationship in the past tense - before swiftly correcting herself. Plot twist! It follows rumours that Cassandra (pictured) is currently dating Nick following his split with the show's winner 'There is a lot of potential there between us, and I could see myself falling in love with him in time,' she said. 'I don't do things by halves, and the L word means a lot to me. There was a lot of potential for the relationship... Or there is, sorry...' Brooke added that the hometown visits made her think more realistically about her relationship with Nick, including the fact they live on different sides of the country. 'Hometowns put things into perspective for me, and made me ask questions about the long-distance factor, with him going back to play rugby or whatever his plans were. There were definitely a lot of unanswered questions,' she said. Brooke's early exit is thought to leave just two contestants in the competition: property valuer Sophie, 25, and radiographer Brittany, 30. Whoops! Despite Brooke still being a finalist on the show alongside Brittany Hockley and Sophie Tieman, the 23-year-old slipped up during an interview with NW on Monday. She seemingly confirmed her exit by speaking about her relationship with Nick in the past tense 'Brooke left because she was just not falling for him,' an insider told Woman's Day last week. 'She was rejecting his advances and realised her feelings weren't as strong as his. Given this, she felt it was fair that she took herself out of the equation.' The Bachelor continues Wednesday at 7:30pm on Network Ten His debut as Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan in an Amazon Prime series has been a huge success. And so John Krasinski is back in character filming a second season of the action drama. The actor, 38, was seen shooting a dramatic scene on a London street on Tuesday. Dramatic: John Krasinski, 38, was back in action as Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan as he shot scenes on location in London Tuesday for season 2 of the Amazon Prime series Krasinski was dressed in blue jeans with a white t-shirt and lightweight rain jacket. The bearded star had a look of concern on his face as he dashed across the cobbled street on which several cars were stalled. Helmeted police officers holding semi-automatic weapons are also in the scene, pointing their guns in the directon in which Krasinski as Ryan is running. Also on the location set was his season 2 co-star, Noomi Rapace. Crisis: The bearded star had a look of concern on his face as he dashed across the cobbled street on which several cars were stalled and with helmeted armed police behind him Action: Also on the location set was his season 2 co-star, Noomi Rapace. The Swedish actress, 38, wore a belted leather jacket over a blue blouse and black jeans with bovver boots She was also seen running across the street as cameras rolled. The second season of Jack Ryan is slated to premiere next year. It's not clear of Krasinski's wife Emily Blunt and their two daughters are in the UK while he films there. Blunt, 35, was born in London and she shares Hazel, four, and Violet, two, with the former star of the US version of The Office whom she wed in 2010. If she's not home in the UK, Krasinski is likely clocking up a lot of air miles. Family man: Krasinski is married to London-born actress Emily Blunt, pictured together in April, and the two share daughters Hazel, four, and Violet, two While he was making season 1 of Jack Ryan in Montreal, Canada, Blunt was in London filming Mary Poppins Returns and the actor flew to see her and their girls every weekend. 'Family for me, its a non-negotiable thing,' Krasinski told People in early September. 'So if Im honest, I was shooting 6,000 miles away from them and I flew back every single weekend.' 'We always set up a base (for the kids) and I always want the base to be with their mom and Ill do the flight time,' he explained. She's had a busy year, starring in three movies and an continuing her role on American Horror Story. But Emma Roberts was able to find some time for herself on Tuesday and headed out on her own in Los Angeles. The 27-year-old actress cut a casual figure as she chatted on the phone while running errands. Seeing stars: Emma Roberts was able to find some time for herself on Tuesday and headed out on her own in Los Angeles Temperatures climbed in to the low-80s in the City of Angels, and Emma took that as an opportunity to role the sleeves of her striped shirt. A pair of skinny blue 7 For All Mankind jeans lent themselves to the look's relaxed feel, and she added a pair of shiny black flats to complete the comfortable, yet chic ensemble. Hanging from her shoulder was a small black purse, and she was all smiles as she chatted away. All smiles: The 27-year-old actress cut a casual figure as she chatted on the phone while running errands Emma let her long blonde tresses fall straight across her shoulders and painted her lips a soft pink. The Scream Queens star went accessory free for her walk her journey out into the world. Meanwhile, Emma is returning to TV screens in American Horror Story: Apocalypse, reprising her role as Madison Montgomery, who was first seen in Coven. As well as bringing her villainous character back to the small screen, her role on the latest season also re-teams her with her beau Evan Peters. Chatting it up: Temperatures climbed in to the low-80s in the City of Angels, and Emma took that as an opportunity to role the sleeves of her striped shirt The couple were even engaged at one point, and recently Emma, as such as Saturday, has been spotted on occasion with the engagement ring on. Back in 2013, the Scream Queens actress was arrested for alleged domestic abuse in Canada after officers responded to a report of a fight in a hotel room. Emma was taken into custody after they allegedly found One Tree Hill star Evan with a bloody nose and a bite mark. He declined to press charges and she was released several hours later, with the couple saying in a joint statement that it was 'an unfortunate incident and misunderstanding.' The pair have remained famously tight-lipped about their relationship since. They celebrated their two-year anniversary in August, after falling in love on the second season of The Bachelorette. And on Tuesday, Georgia Love and Lee Elliott looked happier than ever while attending the First Man premiere in Melbourne. The reality TV lovebirds couldn't wipe the smiles off their faces as they posed for photographs on the red carpet. Still going strong! The Bachelorette's Georgia Love and Lee Elliott enjoyed a date night at the First Man premiere in Melbourne on Tuesday after celebrating their two-year anniversary Georgia, 30, looked effortlessly chic in a bronze satin camisole, palazzo trousers and a tailored black blazer. She completed her look with a two-tone messenger bag, statement drop earrings and a pair of heeled mules. The Ten Eyewitness News reporter kept her makeup soft and dewy, and styled her brunette hair in loose waves. Couple goals: The reality TV lovebirds couldn't wipe the smiles off their faces as they posed for photographs on the red carpet Meanwhile, Lee kept it casual in a bomber jacket, dark jeans and a black T-shirt, finishing off his look with white high-top sneakers. The red carpet appearance comes after the couple celebrated their two-year anniversary. Georgia took to Instagram in August to commemorate the special day by posting a heartfelt video of the Bachelorette finale. So in love! The red carpet appearance comes after Georgia and Lee celebrated their two-year anniversary 'Two years ago we stood atop a hotel in Singapore, a few rose petals around and a few more cameras,' she captioned the video. 'Happy anniversary my Lemon, my Michael Cameron, my love.' Mechanical plumber Lee, 37, also shared a sweet tribute to his girlfriend on their anniversary. Reality romance can work! Two years have passed since they fall in love on the second season of The Bachelorette in 2016 'I have loved you for two years, 24 months, 104 weeks, 730 days, 17,520 hours, 1,051,200 minutes, 63,072,000 seconds,' he wrote. 'My only regret is that I didn't find you sooner so that I could love you longer! Happy second anniversary, my love!' The new season of The Bachelorette, starring Ali Oetjen, debuts Wednesday October 10 at 7:30pm on Network Ten His latest film is called High Life. But it looked like it was high water Robert Pattinson was expecting as he rocked a pair of shorts to the premiere on Tuesday night. The 32-year-old looked super smart nonetheless as he walked the red carpet at the New York Film Festival. Flashing leg: Robert Pattinson he rocked a pair of shorts to the High Life premiere on Tuesday night The wide-leg black shorts her paired with a matching suit jacket, and white shirt buttoned right up to the throat, forgoing a tie. His shiny black, white-heeled shoes and black socks pulled halfway up his calves were of course on full view. The actor posed on the carpet with the film's director Claire Denis, and happily posed for selfies with fans. Stylish: The wide-leg black shorts her paired with a matching suit jacket, and white shirt buttoned right up to the throat, forgoing a tie Handsome: The 32-year-old looked super smart nonetheless as he walked the red carpet at the New York Film Festival Boses: He posed with the film's director Claire Denis, and the festival's director Kent Jones The movie also stars Mia Goth. It tells the story of a group of criminals tricked into participating in a deep space mission to find an alternative energy source, in the believe they will be freed as a reward. While aboard the spaceship, they are subjected to being sexually experimented on by scientists. Plot: The movie tells the story of a group of criminals tricked into participating in a deep space mission to find an alternative energy source, in the believe they will be freed as a reward Kinky: While aboard the spaceship, they are subjected to being sexually experimented on by scientists Smile! The Twilight star happily posed for pics for fans Dream team: According to Deadline , the collaboration between Pattinson and Denis only came about because the English actor took it in his own hands to get in contact with the influential French filmmaker According to Deadline, the collaboration between Pattinson and Denis only came about because the English actor took it in his own hands to get in contact with the influential French filmmaker. 'I'd been pursuing Claire for ages,' Pattinson admitted. 'We met in LA, and I just really liked her in the meeting. [But] it was just one of those really long processesI think it was four years later or something when we did the movie, and it's probably been an eight-year process [in all].' Questions? The trio sat down for a Q&A session She left her highly-coveted gig hosting Eurovision in 2017. And now TV host Julia Zemiro has revealed she initially turned down her new high-profile job. The 51-year-old veteran television personality said was hesitant to sign on to Seven's upcoming singing contest All Together Now when producers approached her. Scroll down for video 'I can tell you it will be a no': Julia Zemiro says she initially turned down hosting Channel Seven's new show All Together Now before giving a stern warning to producers to 'not try and change her' But once she realised the show's format, Julia quickly changed her tune. 'On RocKwiz a lot of the gold comes from contestants I've never met and 2 musicians. And now you're going to give me 100 of them? Yes please!' she told TV Tonight. But coming from the ABC and SBS - she said she was stern with producers, telling them she won't allow commercial television to change her. 'When I met with Endemol Shine I said "If you let me do what I do, then it should be great. But if you try and change what I do we might get into trouble!"' she said. All Together Now sees contestants perform in front of 100 music industry professionals, all battling it out for the grand prize of $100,000. 'Try and change what I do we might get into trouble': Coming from the ABC and SBS - she said she was stern with producers, telling them she won't allow commercial television to change her Included in the line-up of seasoned performers is former X-Factor judge Ronan Keating. But while the former Boyzone member is returning to our screens, his brutal one-liners will not. 'The judging isn't as intense, so he is one of 100 voices. It's more playful, with Ronan as the final voice of reason, at some point,' Julia explained. In 2017, Julia and fellow host Sam Pang, 43, officially handed over their Eurovision microphones. 'Handing over to the next team on a high,' Julia confirmed in a statement at the time, adding that it had been 'eight amazing years.' Julia and Sam were replaced by Myf Warhurst and Joel Creasey. Nick 'The Honey Badger' Cummins' brother previously posted an insensitive 'rape' joke online, it's been revealed. The Bachelor's sibling, Jacob Cummins, who appeared on the show in September, shared a selfie mocking the form of sexual assault on Facebook three years ago. His shocking post surfaced after he recently shared a tasteless meme about contestant Brooke Blurton's sexuality. The Bachelor Nick Cummins' brother Jacob makes insensitive 'rape' joke ...after posting a tasteless meme about contestant Brooke Blurton's sexuality (Pictured on set of The Bachelor with contestant Brooke, Nick and two other family members) The controversial upload occurred after Jacob captured a selfie of himself clutching a bottle of grape seed oil - purposely covering the 'g' in grape so it read 'rape seed'. Another member of the Cummins family then uploaded the photo to Facebook and captioned it 'creepy', while tagging both Jacob and Nick's sister Elizabeth. As a friend of the family then asked, 'Is it mandatory to have that rapey look on your face?', Jacob responded: 'It was a choice for the rape face, it should be mandatory.' Jacob then crudely joked his speeches 'touch people' after a friend complimented his choice of words online. The controversial upload occurred after Jacob captured a selfie of himself clutching a bottle of grape seed oil - purposely covering the 'g' in grape so it read 'rape seed' Controversial: After another member of the Cummins family shared the photo online, Jacob made several more references to 'rape' in the comments while engaging with Facebook friends Jacob, who appeared on the show during a group date in September, recently shared an image that suggested Nick had 'turned' contestant Brooke Blurton 'straight'. The 'joke' came after Brooke told the former Wallaby last month that she had previously dated women, but emphasised that she was not lesbian or bisexual. The meme Jacob posted to Instagram included an image of Bachelor 2016 couple Richie Strahan and Alex Nation, as well as an image of Alex and her ex-fiancee Maegan Luxa, who she began dating after splitting with Richie. Another PR disaster for Channel Ten: The Bachelor Nick Cummins' brother Jacob (left) posted an insensitive meme about one of the show's contestants, Brooke Blurton (right) last month It also featured a paparazzi photo of his brother at Sydney Airport taken on May 10 and an on-set picture of Nick carrying Brooke in his arms during a group date. 'Richie turns them gay, Honey Badger turns them straight #Standard,' the meme was captioned. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Network Ten for comment. She is known for showing off her figure in magazines and on runways around the world. And Olivia Culpo stayed true to form on Monday has she headed off to her next destination. The 28-year-old former Miss Universe stunned as she showed off her toned midriff under a cropped black top while toting a large Louis Vuitton suitcase with a Christian Dior handbag. Olivia was dressed in all black in the photo and showed off her toned midriff under a cropped black top Olivia was dressed in all black in the photo and wore skintight black leggings over her sinewy stems, and also donned white high tops. She captioned that image, 'My little break is over! No more sweat pants, beach days, banana bread, and Words With Friends for me.... Any guesses where Im going next?' According to her Instagram stories, she next appeared in Vence, France. New destination: According to her Instagram stories, she next appeared in Vence, France Stunning: Olivia Culpo stayed true to form on Monday has she headed into a photo shoot at an unknown beach destination It remains unknown where the constant traveler was as she prepared for the photo shoot. Nonetheless, she look ravishing in the two piece with her wet hair brushed back and tumbling to one side. She had a red sweater tossed over one shoulder, and accessorized with a variety of gold bracelets and a pendant necklace. Different look: Olivia shared another bikini photo of herself to her Instagram story, but this time the bathing suit was covered with a drawn on yellow two piece Olivia shared another bikini photo of herself to her Instagram story, but this time the bathing suit was covered with a drawn on yellow two piece. In the distance, blue water spread out behind palm trees and small waves crashed onto an unidentified beach. It seems that the I Feel Pretty actress has already moved onto her next locale, however, as she shared another post afterwords with her and various packed bags. She's changing the face of fashion with every new endeavor. And Blanca Blanco proved on trend as she exuded pure supermodel charisma during her first major runway show at Paris Fashion Week on Tuesday. The 37-year-old stunner showcased her catwalk queen sensibility as she stole the spotlight with her raw sensuality at the Christophe Guillarme show. Catwalk queen: Blanca Blanco, 37, exuded pure supermodel charisma during her first major runway show at Paris Fashion Week on Tuesday Flirting between elegant sophistication and casual complexity, the Showgirls 2: Penny's From Heaven star created a sensation at the Spring/Summer 2019 soiree. She thrust her enviable figure on center stage as the jewel-encrusted beige gown boasted a sheer fabric allowing a peek at her gorgeous gams. Holding a steady gaze and earnest facial expression, the brunette beauty controlled the free-flowing gown like a professional by twisting and turning the unique gossamer fabric. Her delicate decolletage and lithe waist was positioned at full display as she brought glamour and femininity in a black and white lace ensemble. Fancy flirt: Flirting between elegant sophistication and casual complexity, the Showgirls 2: Penny's From Heaven star created a sensation at the Spring/Summer 2019 soiree Gossamer: Holding a steady gaze and earnest facial expression, the brunette beauty controlled the gown like a professional by twisting and turning the gossamer fabric Taking a brief respite from the glaring runway lights, Blanca continued her modeling responsibilities as she posed in front of an elevator with a chic red leather clutch. Backstage, the accomplished American thespian provided an insight to her pre-runway traditions as she readied for the event in a director's chair. Before donning her fashion forward wardrobes, Blanca put demure to the sideline as she rocked a tank top with a fabulous black and white graphic of herself. Delicate: Her delicate decolletage and lithe waist was positioned at full display as she brought glamour and femininity in a black and white lace ensemble Always the consummate: Taking a brief respite from the glaring runway lights, Blanca continued her modeling responsibilities as she posed in front of an elevator with a chic red leather clutch And she flaunted her taut midriff in a pair of hot pink leggings that featured gold buttons running the length of the pants. Meanwhile, Blanca's name was on everyone's lips at the Golden Globes as she dared to rock red, despite the call to wear black in solidarity with the #TimesUp movement. Going underwear free, there was no mistaking that this was an outfit designed to stand out and make headlines. Sneak peek: Backstage, the accomplished American thespian provided an insight to her pre-runway traditions as she readied for the event in a director's chair Self-love: Before donning her fashion forward wardrobes, Blanca put demure to the sideline as she rocked a tank top with a fabulous black and white graphic of herself The Bermuda Tentacles alum attended the show's red carpet with her longtime boyfriend, 68-year-old Dark Angel actor John Savage. Following the Golden Globes scandal, Blanca discussed her high-risk fashion moment with Refinery29, Blanca recounted why she decided on the fiery colour, saying: 'I love red. Wearing red does not means I am against #timesup movement. 'I applaud and stand by the courageous actresses that continue to break the circle of abuse through their actions and their style choice. 'It is one of many factors leading women to a safer place because of their status in the acting world. I am excited about the Time's UP movement because true change is long overdue.' The Bachelor fan favourite Brooke Blurton, 23, dramatically walked out on Nick 'The Honey Badger' Cummins during a shock cocktail party during Wednesday night's episode. Ex-Wallabies star Nick, 30, appeared devastated as he bid an emotional farewell to the Indigenous youth worker after she revealed that she could no longer stay in the competition. Brooke dropped the shock bombshell on Nick during a private conversation in the mansion. 'I need a guy that knows what he wants!' The Bachelor fan-favourite Brooke Blurton dramatically walked out on Nick 'The Honey Badger' Cummins during a shock cocktail party on Wednesday's episode Clad in a semi-sheer black dress, Brooke tearfully informed the hunk that she needed more 'reassurance' and 'certainty' from him. 'I came here to fall in love... I need a guy that knows what he wants and can tell me that's me,' Brooke said as a single tear rolled down her cheek. Nick, who wore a tailored black suit, gave Brooke his full attention as she announced: 'I need to go home.' End of the line: The 23-year-old frontrunner dropped the shock bombshell on Nick, 30, during a private conversation in the mansion Brink of tears? The heartbroken hunk appeared to be on the brink of tears as he processed the dire situation Seconds after receiving the news, the sportsman bowed his head in utter disbelief. The heartbroken lothario appeared to be on the brink of tears as he processed the dire situation. 'I'm not going to stand in your way as much as I want to because my respect for you and how much I care for you outweighs the selfishness of me wanting you to be out here,' Nick sighed. Unhappy ending? Nick hugged Brooke before she entered the limo and zoomed off into the distance Afterwards, the sportsman held Brooke's hand and led her down the mansion's driveway, looking thoroughly downcast. The outcome came as a shock to viewers, given that Nick was seen raving about Brooke earlier in the episode. 'Everything about her is perfect. Every moment we spend together it feels like we're meant to be,' Nick revealed during their steamy one-on-one date. 'When I think about the type of partner Brooke is everything I want,' Nick said. Shock exit: The ex-Wallabies star appeared to be devastated as he bid an emotional farewell to the Indigenous youth worker The final goodbye: It was reported earlier this week that Brooke left the competition early and in turn shattered Nick's heart It was reported earlier this week that Brooke left the competition early and in turn shattered Nick's heart. Last month Woman's Day claimed the brunette beauty had left the competition early. 'Brooke left because she was just not falling for him,' an insider told the magazine. 'She was rejecting his advances and realised her feelings weren't as strong as his. Given this, she felt it was fair that she took herself out of the equation.' 'Brooke left because she was just not falling for him': An insider told Woman's Day last month Brooke's exit has left two contestants in the competition; property valuer Sophie Tieman and radiographer Brittany Hockley. However, Daily Mail Australia confirmed earlier this month that Nick is no longer dating the show's winner. 'The Honey Badger's relationship is already over. This is obviously not what we wanted,' a production source said. The Bachelor continues on Thursday at 7.30pm on Network Ten She's become a fixture on the Los Angeles social scene, proving herself to always be on trend while on the red carpet. And on Tuesday, Lara Worthington (nee Bingle), 31, proved her fashion credentials yet again, when she was spotted wearing a 'must have' initial pendent by Celine. Cutting a chic figure, Lara proved that even when running errands on an ordinary day she likes to up the style stakes with her outfit. Scroll down for video Does 'S' stand for Sam? Lara Bingle looks chic as she dons a designer necklace worth $500... following claims she is 'pregnant with her third child with husband Worthington' Enjoying the mild California weather, Lara was photographed briskly strutting down the street solo, with her clutching onto her iPhone. At one point, she seemed to stop and speak with a woman in an animated way, with them both laughing and smiling at each other. Meanwhile, for the outing Lara kept it stylish with a black-and-gold dress, which featured a plunging neckline and billowing skirt. Golden girl! The accessory complemented Lara's plunging black and gold dress, which flaunted her toned arms and a hint of chest Perhaps having her husband Sam in mind, Lara opted for the Celine 'S' pendant, which retails for around $500 from the French fashion house. Made out of brass and gold bamboo, the pendent is the latest must have celebrity item, with it around the neck of Kate Moss and Emily Ratajkowski. Lara finished her outfit with very functional chunky sandals, along with a pair of designer black and gold sunglasses. Quick chat? While running errands, the model was snapped chatting with a woman on the Los Angeles sidewalk Earlier this month, it was reported that Lara and husband Sam were having a third child, according to OK! Magazine. An insider said the couple - who are already parents to sons Rocket, three, and Racer, one - are thrilled by the news. 'Lara is pregnant with baby number three... [she's] desperately hoping for a girl,' the source claimed. 'Pregnant with baby number three': It comes amid claims Lara is pregnant with her third child as reported by OK! magazine 'Lara and Sam are both over the moon about the pregnancy, but it's only early days.' The insider added: 'When Lara and Sam married they always had an agreement: they would try for four kids in fast succession.' The couple reportedly don't want to know the gender ahead of the birth. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Lara and Sam for comment. Earlier this month, it was revealed that the model and the Avatar actor purchased a five-bedroom, eight-bathroom home, spanning 6,128-square feet. In July, the Cronulla native spoke to Sunday Life magazine about her four-year marriage to Sam. Candid: In July, the Cronulla native spoke to Sunday Life magazine about her four-year marriage to Sam. Pictured here at an event for Tiffany & Co She revealed the trait she finds most attractive in her husband and it has nothing to do with his good looks. The couple are very family-minded, and Lara admitted Sam's parenting style left her impressed. 'Parenting is challenging. You need a lot of patience and I'd say Sam is definitely more patient than me,' Lara said. 'He's just a really good dad and absolutely obsessed with the boys, so nothing comes between them not work or anything else. And that, for me, is the most attractive thing about him.' Victoria Silvstedt put on another glamorous display as she made an appearance at the Christophe Guillarme catwalk show on Tuesday evening. The Swedish model, who usually dives her time between Miami and the south of France, took a front row seat at the presentation as Paris Fashion Week entered its closing stages. Opting for a red leather evening dress with a thigh-skimming detail, Victoria, 44, caught the eye while posing for photos before making her way inside. Looking good: Victoria Silvstedt put on another glamorous display as she made an appearance at the Christophe Guillarme catwalk show on Tuesday evening The model added to her look with a pair of conventional blue stiletto heels, while a matching handbag proved to be a distinctive accessory. Drawing attention to her naturally petty features Victoria sported make-up selected from a soft colour palette. As always her trademark blonde locks were styles with a simple centre parting, while gold bracelets on both wrists rounded things off. Striking: Opting for a red leather evening dress with a thigh-skimming detail, Victoria, 44, caught the eye while posing for photos before making her way inside In good company: Victoria was joined by Emmanuelle Boidron (L) and Lea Francois (R) at the Christophe Guillarme show in Paris on Tuesday evening Victoria had good company in the form of Emmanuelle Boidron and Lea Francois, and all three wore matching red as they watched Blanca Blanco make her catwalk debut at the event. The American actress, 37, showcased her catwalk queen sensibility as she stole the spotlight with her raw sensuality. Flirting between elegant sophistication and casual complexity, Blanca created a sensation at the Spring/Summer 2019 soiree. Sitting pretty: The three friends all sported matching red dresses as they occupied their front row seats at the event Sweeping statement: Blanca Blanco walked the catwalk for the French label on Tuesday evening Striking: The American actress sported a rage of outfits from Christophe Guillarme's Spring/Summer 2019 collection Victoria has enjoyed a lengthy stint in the spotlight after being chosen to represent her country in the Miss World pageant in 1993. After her pageant days, the Scandinavian stunner was spotted by Hugh Hefner and went on to become a Playboy Playmate. Since her career rocketed, she has modelled for some of the world's most prestigious fashion houses, including Chanel, Dior and Valentino. Strike a pose: Blanca was at her sultry best as posed for photographers backstage at the event on Tuesday evening Despite the glamorous veneer to her lifestyle as a young model, she revealed there was a dark side in a recent interview with Female First. Victoria said: 'I started very young to model in Paris when I was 18, I remember like starving myself to fit into the clothes and it was an amazing experience but you know I did shows for Valentino, Chanel, so it was really prestigious. But it never felt like it was my thing, I'm not like a runway skinny model, I'm more curvy. It was torture, I put myself through starvation, you know torturing myself. She dazzled in a glamorous pink dress while raising awareness of Estee Lauder's breast cancer campaign earlier this week. And Elizabeth Hurley continued her run of pink looks as she departed her New York City hotel on Tuesday morning. The age-defying beauty, 53, once again made a style statement as she brightened up black jeans with a vibrant fuchsia jumper while out and about in the Big Apple. Making a statement: Elizabeth Hurley continued to raise awareness of breast cancer by sporting pink looks as she departed her New York City hotel on Tuesday morning The Royals actress perfected a look that was as chic as it was casual in her skinny jeans and heeled black shoe boots. Not only relying on her pink jumper to raise breast cancer awareness, Elizabeth also sported a pink ribbon badge, the cause's international symbol. Upping the glamour, the beauty styled her brunette tresses into glamorous curls and applied a generous rouge to her cheeks as she stepped out for another day of public appearances. Pretty in pink: The age-defying beauty, 53, once again made a style statement as she brightened up black jeans with a vibrant fuchsia jumper while out and about in the Big Apple Her sighting came just a day after the mother-of-one revealed the secret to her youthful appearance. Speaking to Woman & Home magazine, Elizabeth said she swears by regular moisturising and admitted she can apply creams to her face up to six times a day. Elizabeth said she started her rigorous regime after learning from a make-up artist that you could still apply moisturiser, the name of which she did not disclose, even when fully made up. Good cause: Not only relying on her pink jumper to raise breast cancer awareness, Elizabeth also sported a pink ribbon badge, the cause's international symbol She confessed: The one thing I swear by is moisturiser and lots of it. Ill moisturise my face about six times a day and my neck about ten times a day. Lightly dab it over your face, and it instantly makes you glow. The beauty fanatic's quest to look good also saw her undergo a gruelling detox at the 4,000-a-week VivaMayr luxury retreat in Austria last month. She often shows off her ageless good looks and incredible figure on social media. Yet Carol Vorderman was using her Instagram and Twitter accounts for wholly different reasons on Wednesday as she shared a 'spooky' pair of images, complete with a snap from her childhood and another of her daughter Katie King. In the post, the 57-year-old former Countdown star revealed she and Katie were both 10 in the images - in which they are near-identical. Who's who? Carol Vorderman was using her Instagram and Twitter accounts for wholly different reasons on Wednesday as she shared a 'spooky' pair of images, complete with a snap from her childhood and another of her daughter Katie King Carol took to the captions to point out just how similar they appear: 'Awwww....We are laughing about this spooky likeness... Me...age 10 in blue dressing gown #1970...and my daughter Katie age 10 #2002 in the grey coat... In 2015, Carol revealed Katie had graduated from Cambridge and in snaps from the ceremony, the resemblance between Carol and her daughter was evident, with the graduate looking remarkably similar to the maths whizz in her Countdown days. Carol was overcome with emotion after Katie's graduation, sharing a few choice snaps of her mother and children - from her second marriage to management consultant Patrick King - on her Twitter account. She enthused: 'First tweeted pic of my family.Me, Mum (87 next week), Katie and Cameron. And we all live together in a happy house x... Twinning! In 2015, Carol revealed Katie had graduated from Cambridge and in snaps from the ceremony, the resemblance between Carol and her daughter was evident, with the graduate looking remarkably similar to the maths whizz in her Countdown days Who's who? The likenesses between the two brunette astounding 'An M.A. (Cantab) and an M.Sci (Cantab).Girls CAN do Engineering/Physics/Chemistry & love it #Cambridge #Mum&Daughter'. As well as an aptitude for science and maths, the pair also share a love of space and flying. Carol, who has her own pilot licence, told how Katie's birthday gift was a trip to the Kennedy Space Center in Florida to watch the final Atlantis mission. 'I went to see the Space Shuttle launch for my daughter's 18th birthday because she wants to be an astronaut, so I took her', she previously said. 'She's learning to fly. She's been at Cambridge doing physics and in the University Air Squadron which is the RAF.' Way back: Another throwback snap of Carol surfaced last week when Myleene Klass posted a shot on Instagram which was taken 30 years previously Another throwback snap of Carol surfaced last week when Myleene Klass posted a shot on Instagram which was taken 30 years previously. Klass was only 12 years old when she first met the former Countdown star and the pals delightedly came together for a snap at RAF's consecration parade for 617 Squadrons new standard in Norfolk on Friday. 'Have known her for forever...since back in the day when I wanted to be an engineer,' Myleene, 40, captioned the snap, before adding: 'Today were at RAF Marham for something very special. The 13th series of The Apprentice is set to kick off on BBC One on Wednesday night. And Good Morning Britain delighted fans of the show, as they aired a teaser clip for the series which saw two female contestants come to blows as they compete for the major 250,000 investment in their brand. Khadija Kalifa, 28, appeared livid as Sarah Byrne, 29, closed a deal with a shop owner which was initially intended for her and questioned her choice of offer - claiming it was too high. What's to come: A teaser clip of The Apprentice sees two female contestants come to blows as they compete for the major 250,000 investment in their brand The girls' team seems to get off to a shaky start as two contestants get involved in a highly dramatic showdown. Sarah is seen coming to a deal with the shop-owner, telling him: 'Can I just offer one price and we'll take it straight away? 75.' Khadija is none too pleased, claiming: 'Sian nominated me to do that item because you did the house. 'I feel like I would have gone lower than 75 to be honest,' she tells Sarah - who owns a children's acting academy. Drama: Khadija Kalifa, 28, (R) appeared livid as Sarah Byrne, 29, (L) closed a deal with a shop owner which was initially intended for her and questioned her choice of offer - claiming it was too high Negotiating: Sarah is seen coming to a deal with the shop-owner, telling him: 'Can I just offer one price and we'll take it straight away? 75' Sarah fires back: 'I don't understand why it's a big deal about who negotiates. We're supposed to be a team.' Meanwhile Sian appears confused as she informs the girls that she is the actual leader of the task, and that they should be in fact, listening to her. Undeterred, Khadija continues to rage at Sarah: 'Well you're not acting like we're a team. You don't have to act like an animal.' None too pleased: Khadija tells Sarah: 'I feel like I would have gone lower than 75 to be honest,' she tells Sarah - who owns a children's acting academy' Sarah fires back: 'I don't understand why it's a big deal about who negotiates. We're supposed to be a team' What's going on? Meanwhile Sian appears confused as she informs the girls that she is the actual leader of the task, and that they should be in fact, listening to her Undeterred: Khadija continues to rage at Sarah: 'Well you're not acting like we're a team. You don't have to act like an animal' The Apprentice is returning to BBC with a brand new batch of hopeful entrepreneurs. On the 13th series, 16 candidates will compete against one another for the 250,000 business investment and a shot to partner with Lord Alan Sugar. To do that, theyll have to impress him and advisers Karren Brady and Claude Littner enough to stay in the competition from beginning to end. BBC has confirmed the identities of all 16 business-savvy The Apprentice candidates. They range in age from 21 to 37 and have vastly different backgrounds. This series will feature a nut milk owner, a senior marketing manager, a tree surgery firm owner, a law graduate and more competing to win. She's the former Miss Universe Australia who stormed the runway at Miami Swim Week in July. And on Wednesday, Natalie Roser, 28, ensured all the attention was on her yet again, when she flaunted major underboob in a skimpy red swimsuit. After she had gone for a dip in the ocean, the blonde bombshell took to Instagram to flaunt her bronzed figure in the risque two-piece. Scroll down to video Red hot! Model Natalie Roser, 28, has ensured all eyes were on her when she flaunted major underboob and her bronzed curves in a risque bikini on Wednesday Gazing into the distance, Natalie basked in the sunshine with her luscious blonde mane still soaking wet from her splash in the water. Standing on the beach solo, Natalie flaunted her toned stomach and lithe thighs in the sizzling snap. In the caption, the blonde beauty let fans know she was hosting a competition for two fans to join her on a Thailand getaway. Racy in lace! Last month, Natalie put on a seductive display in skimpy sheer lingerie during a photo shoot in Los Angeles Last month, Natalie sent fans into a tizzy when she swapped swimwear for lingerie, sharing a number of black and white photos for a saucy shoot. The leggy glamazon shared three photos from her shoot with famous photographer Gregorio Campos and fashion editor Veronique Droulez. Her assets were on full display, with the see-through bra panelling covered by only an ink-scribble print. Lucky you! Natalie shared three photos from her shoot with famous photographer Gregorio Campos and fashion editor Veronique Droulez The leggy blonde wore her hair in a loose, messy style to contrast the traditional black and white photography. Natalie flashed a glimpse of her derriere in another image from the shoot, where she was seen perched on a white platform. In the third snap, she held a defiant pose with a hand placed confidently on her hip. Natalie has worked prolifically overseas, and was one of a handful of Australians walking the runway at Miami Swim Week in July. Legging it! Natalie flashed a glimpse of her derriere in another image from the shoot, where she was seen perched on a white platform Speaking with The Sunday Telegraph at the time, Natalie revealed why she believes local models are so in-demand at the US swimwear event. 'I think a lot of the designers are looking for good energy so I like to think we bring that for them,' she said. 'I also think the designers of Swim Week respond really well to a fit and healthy body shape, which so many Australian girls have.' Meanwhile, Natalie's personal life is also blossoming following her move to LA with her boyfriend Harley Bonner, 27, earlier this year. Success story: Natalie has worked prolifically overseas, and was one of a handful of Australians walking the runway at Miami Swim Week in July Her estranged husband Ben Affleck completed his 30-day rehab stint last week, with the family heading to church at the weekend. And Jennifer Garner looked every inch the doting mum as she took her six-year-old son Samuel to his martial arts class in Los Angeles on Tuesday. The actress, 46, cut a casual figure and beamed as she scooped up her youngest child in her arms as they headed into the venue. Sweet: Jennifer Garner looked every inch the doting mum as she took her six-year-old son Samuel to his martial arts class in Los Angeles on Tuesday Jennifer showed her support to Save The Children as she layered the charity branded t-shirt atop of a cream knit. The 13 Going On 30 star teamed the low-key ensemble with denim skinny jeans, a light tan shopper bag and opted for comfort on her feet with white trainers. Donning a pair of black shades, Jen styled her brunette hair is a sleek centre-parting and showcased her natural beauty with a minimal make-up look. Close-knit family: The mother-son outing comes after the family were spotted heading to church at the weekend after Ben, also 47, finished his stint in rehab for alcohol addiction Little Samuel looked ready for training in his fitness ensemble, which featured his blue martial arts belt. The mother-son outing comes after the family were spotted heading to church at the weekend after Ben, also 46, finished his stint in rehab for alcohol addiction. According to insiders, Affleck 'is doing much better' in the wake of finishing 30 days at The Canyons rehab facility in Malibu, where he will continue working on himself 'for at least a couple of more weeks.' 'As difficult as it was to have his recent trip to rehab all play out so publicly, it now seems the way it happened was for the best,' the source told People. Seems like old times: Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck took their three children to church on Sunday morning Affleck, who was treated for addiction alcohol last year, and had a rehab stint in 2001, has been taking 'this rehab visit more seriously,' as 'this time is different,' the source told the magazine. The insider claimed Ben 'doesn't want his kids to have to go through this again' and 'is really trying very hard to get better' during this visit to rehab. The couple announced they were parting ways back in 2015 and are in the final stages of finalising their divorce. Ben and Jen had a 10-year marriage and co-share, Samuel, Violet, 12, and Seraphina, nine. A benefit concert for the rapper Mac Miller, who died in September, has been organised with the money raised from tickets going to benefit a fund set up in the name of Ariana Grande's ex-boyfriend. The likes of John Mayer, Ty Dolla $ign and Travis Scott are set to perform at the Mac Miller: A Celebration of Life concert. Mac Millers mother, Karen Meyers, took to Instagram to express her gratitude to everyone who helped put on the event. 'Thank you to all the artists, friends and partners for helping to bring this all to fruition.. in honor of wonderful Malcom.. who is in all of our hearts,' she wrote. A concert for the late musician Mac Miller has been organisedto take place later this month In a statement, Karen said: 'The support we've experienced is evident in this amazing lineup and is a testament to Malcolm's incredible life. 'His Father, brother and I are beyond thankful to everyone who is working to make this concert happen along with every fan and every friend for continuing to support Malcolm and his vision. 'He was a caring, loving human with a smile that could light up the sky and a soul that was out to make the world a kinder place and the MMCF will continue to do just that. Here is all you need to know about the Mac Miller concert including when and where is it, how to get tickets and who will be performing at it. When is the Mac Miller: A Celebration of Life concert? Mac Miller: A Celebration of Life concert is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, October 31, 2018. Where is the concert? The concert will take place at The Greek Theater in Los Angeles. Who is performing? Mac Millers close friends and collaborators will perform at the concert on October 31. These include Action Bronson, Anderson.Paak, Chance the Rapper, John Mayer, J.I.D., Miguel, Njomza, Schoolboy Q, SZA, Thundercat, Travis Scott, Ty Dolla $ign, Domo Genesis, Dylan Reynolds, Earl Sweatshirt, Thundercat and Vince Staples. Mac Miller A Celebration of Life tickets Tickets for the Mac Miller concert go on sale on Friday, October 5 at 1pm ET/10am PT. Tickets can be bought online from the Ticketmaster website, with prices ranging from $39.50 to $500. Live Nation tickets can be purchased over the phone using the 800-745-3000 number. Mac Miller death Mac Miller died in his home in Los Angeles on September 7, 2018 at the age of 26 from a suspected drug overdose. A statement from the family at the time read: 'Malcolm McCormick, known and adored by fans as Mac Miller, has tragically passed away at the age of 26. He was a bright light in this world for his family, friends and fans. Thank you for your prayers. Please respect our privacy. There are no further details as to the cause of his death at this time.' Following his death many celebrities paid tribute to the rapper. Donald Glover, aka Childish Gambino, dedicated a performance of Riot to the musician, saying: He was so nice. He was the sweetest guy; he was so nice, before adding: I just wanna say, I love you, Mac, and I just want to tell you that I love you and this song is for him because I feel like sometimes he wanted to let go. Other tributes came from everyone including Elton John, Drake, J. Cole, One Directions Niall Horan, Maroon 5 and Liam Gallagher. Mac Millers ex-girlfriend Ariana Grande broke her silence several days after Millers death, posting on Instagram: i adored you from the day i met you when i was nineteen and i always will. i cant believe you arent here anymore. i really cant wrap my head around it. We talked about this. so many times. im so mad, im so sad i dont know what to do. you were my dearest friend. for so long. above anything else. im so sorry i couldnt fix or take your pain away. i really wanted to. the kindest, sweetest soul with demons he never deserved. i hope youre okay now. rest. What is the Mac Miller Circles Fund? The Mac Miller: A Celebration of Life concert has been organised to benefit the Mac Miller Circles Fund, with the money going to provide programming, resources and opportunities to youth from underserved communities, helping them recognize their full potential through exploration in the arts and community building. She sparked a social media meltdown after claiming she was engaged to Love Island beau Jack Fincham in an elaborate prank on Tuesday. And Dani Dyer continued to steal the limelight a day later, as she donned chic Nineties-inspired co-ords while launching her collaboration with In The Style. The reality star, 22, dazzled in her quirky red two-piece as she joined forces with fellow Islander, Samira Mighty, who rocked a pink checked miniskirt by New Girl Order at the bash in London. Check her out! Dani Dyer, 22, nailed the Nineties look in checked co-ords at the launch of her clothing collaboration with In The Style in London on Wednesday Dani certainly turned heads in her cropped oversized jacket, which she teamed with a matching thigh-grazing skirt. She layered a simple black top underneath and boosted her height with a pair of peep-toe suede boots. Styling her glossy raven tresses in tumbling waves, the Love Island winner framed her features with taupe lipstick and smoky shadow. The brunette beauty seemed to be in great spirits as she posed alongside a pink double-decker bus emblazoned with images of her in an In The Style campaign. Looking good: Her fellow Islander, Samira Mighty, dazzled in a pink checked miniskirt by New Girl Order and statement heels Chic: Dani certainly turned heads in her cropped oversized jacket, which she teamed with a matching thigh-grazing skirt The mane attraction: The daughter of EastEnders star Danny Dyer styled her glossy raven tresses in tumbling waves Dani's outing comes after she caused shockwaves with her cheeky engagement prank. The stunner took to Twitter on Tuesday to share a snap of her dazzling diamond ring as she stunned fans with the news - yet revealed all was not as it seems shortly before she was spotted out and about while flashing her bare hand. Appearing on Capital Radio, Roman Kemp dared the star to trick her fans with the snap - in which she posed with a dazzling ring on her finger. Dani and Jack were the original couple on this year's Love Island and walked away victorious after winning the hearts of fans. Preened to perfection: The Love Island winner framed her features with taupe lipstick and smoky shadow Having a whale of a time: The brunette beauty seemed to be in great spirits as she posed alongside a pink double-decker bus emblazoned with images of her in an In The Style campaign Their trick comes after a number of former stars have welcomed children and become engaged - while Alex Bowen and Olivia Buckland were the first couple to tie the knot in an idyllic ceremony earlier this month. After leaving the villa, Jack confirmed he had it in his sights to tie the knot with the daughter of TV hardman Danny. He said: 'Were getting married next year, 100 per cent. Like my mum said to me so many times: "When you know about someone, you just know... And now I know what shes talking about. I just know thats what we want to do"... Had everyone fooled! Dani sparked a social media meltdown after claiming she was engaged to Love Island beau Jack Fincham in an elaborate prank on Tuesday Quite the joker! Dani didn't tell Jack she was going to go through with the prank and Jack woke up inundated with confused messages from friends and family Prank: The stunner shared a snap of her dazzling diamond ring on Twitter as she stunned fans with the news Backing his plans, Dani said: 'It aint about planning when were gonna have kids. Its about enjoying a bit of time outside the villa now. And when were both ready, we will talk about it. Right now Im just happy to be with him.' In this week's Now Magazine, Jack continued to voice his marriage plans as he said: 'We definitely want marriage and kids in the future but we want to buy a house first... We want a big wedding! I want a fun one that she'll remember'. The news comes after fans were sent wild at the prospect of a Dyer reality show earlier this month. And it seems dreams are set to become a reality as Dani revealed on Wednesday that filming was underway for the show - which will no doubt prove explosive. Smoke and mirrors: She then revealed all was not as it seems shortly as she flashed her bare hand shortly after Big plans: After leaving the villa, Jack confirmed he had it in his sights to tie the knot with the daughter of TV hardman Danny Following her success on the dating show, the stunner will now take the lead on the show - however she confesses it is 'hard work' if not extremely exciting for the family and her boyfriend Jack. While she is shooting the new show, her romance with beau Jack Fincham has been going for strength-to-strength - including moving in together. She said: 'Its a massive change, aint it? I never thought at 22 Id be living with someone, but I love it. I love it. Its good'. The show was first hinted at during the TV Choice Awards earlier this month when dad Danny confirmed plans following the huge success of Dani and Jack. Taking centre-stage: Samira, meanwhile, rocked a cropped white sweatshirt with her tiny skirt Working her angles: The West End actress completed her Clueless-inspired ensemble with a blue leather bag Keeping it casual: Dani rocked boyfriend jeans teamed with a shearling trim aviator jacket earlier that day Laid-back look: She completed the look with trainers and a Louis Vuitton tote Stylish: Dani sported a white knitted top and denim skirt as she posed for photos at the In The Style Clothing Launch at Dirty Martini in London on Wednesday afternoon Finishing touches: The TV personality completed her look with a pair of peep-toe ankle-boots His love woes have been well-documented through his eight years in the spotlight. And James Argent's romantic past came back to haunt him once more as he joined his girlfriend Gemma Collins on Comedy Central's Your Face or Mine, where he was grilled over who is more attractive - his current love or ex Lydia Bright. The TOWIE star was in the hot seat in front of funnyman Jimmy Carr, who demanded to know who he fancied more, leading to the somewhat awkward response: 'They're both very attractive but Gemmas got a prettier face. Awkward: James Argent's romantic past came back to haunt him once more as he joined his girlfriend Gemma Collins on Comedy Central's Your Face or Mine, where he was grilled over who is more attractive - his current love or ex Lydia Bright The premise of the Comedy Central hit sees contestants, mostly couples, challenged to guess how attractive people are based on the choices of the audience. Gemma and Arg are the latest couple to star on the show and face the extremely awkward challenge - leading to James' confession. Clearly uncomfortable as they game kicked off, Gemma stated: 'She is very beautiful', before Arg said: 'I'm gonna go with Gemma' - only for host Jimmy Carr to cheekily point out: 'Well you have gone with Gemma!' While Arg dutifully remained with his girlfriend, the response from the audience was more tepid as she received just 10% of the vote. Having a laugh: The TOWIE star was in the hot seat in front of funnyman Jimmy Carr, who demanded to know who he fancied more, leading to the somewhat awkward response: 'They're both are very attractive but Gemmas got a prettier face' Awkward... While Arg loyally chose Gemma, a whopping 90% of the audience opted for Lydia Way back when: Lydia and Arg dated on-off for eight years, however his partying and infidelities soon led to the demise of their relationship (pictured in 2011) The shocking decision from Arg comes after Gemma voiced her devastation at her relationship crisis with the crooner - after he told he's always love Lydia. She said: 'He doesn't care that I'm his girlfriend... and the fact that someone says to me does it hurt that I'll never love you like I loved my ex-girlfriend.. like it took me to go out out in a yacht to talk this through. I ain't f****** about here.' Also making an appearance on the show was Gemma's ex-beau Rami Hawash, as they came face-to-face following a tricky split. Moving on: Lydia has now found love with hunky Lee Cronin and admitted in the past that while she is happy for Arg and hopes he is happy, she has no desires to contact him Hold me close: The shocking decision from Arg comes after Gemma voiced her devastation at her relationship crisis with the crooner - after he told he's always love Lydia Gemma chatted on the show about how she and Rami broke up while also regaling a hilarious story about her ex giving Arg the middle finger. The awkward game was made more so when Jimmy goaded the duo in his favoured dry, sarcastic style - which was met with sheepish responses. Jimmy asked Arg why he broke up with Lydia, only for him to claim it's 'a lot story' - although Jimmy attempted to push for answers. Your Face or Mine airs on Wednesdays at 8pm on Comedy Central UK. Danniella Westbrook has been convicted of fraud over an unpaid fuel bill despite a no-show at a Spanish court, just 11 days after being diagnosed with womb cancer. The former EastEnders star was found guilty after the short hearing for her failure to pay for the 37 Euros (32.90) of petrol she put in a hire car during a motorway stop. The 44-year-old, set to have a hysterectomy later this month after revealing she has womb cancer, was ordered to stand trial after being arrested. More bad news: Danniella Westbrook guilty of fraud after failing to pay 33 fuel bill in Spain... 11 DAYS after revealing her womb cancer battle Troubled actress Danniella had tried to fly out of Malaga Airport in April and thrown in a police cell for the night. She left judge Francisco Javier Kimatrai with no option but to go ahead with the case after failing to attend the tiny court in the small town of Velez Rubio near Almeria, south-east Spain on Wednesday. A court secretary called out the actress by her married surname of Jenkins. A British expat translator was hired for the case but not needed in the end. Disappointing: The former EastEnders star was found guilty after the short hearing for her failure to pay for the 37 Euros (32.90) of petrol she put in a hire car during a motorway stop The bizarre moment the former Celebrity Big Brother star emptied her handbag out on the counter of a nearby family-owned service station. She then told staff she had no money was then played out in front of four people inside the courtroom including the judge and garage owner. Dad-of-two Serafino Reche, 44, told the hearing he reported Danniella to police on July 24 last year. Two days after she drove off from the Galp petrol station he runs with his brother Antonio off the A-92 motorway in Chirivel 10 miles from Velez Rubio. He said: 'She came in and emptied her handbag on the counter and said she had no money. She left a foreign driving licence and said shed pay later but I never heard from her again.' He confirmed he was still owed the 37euros (32.90) of petrol the embattled star filled her Hyundai rental car up with. State prosecutor Juan Carlos Costela then told the court he was seeking a fraud conviction and 180euros (160) fine for Danniella and wanted her to repay the garage owner. The judge found the London-born mother-of-two guilty in her absence of a minor fraud offence and reserved sentencing to a later date. The sentence, which is expected to include a lesser fine than the one state prosecutors demanded but the threat of prison if she does not pay, will not be made public until she has been formally notified of its contents. After the hearing Mr Reche admitted he had no idea he was out of pocket to an actress who once entertained millions in a famous BBC soap and confessed he had little hope of ever being paid. But he added: 'Hopefully the bad publicity shell get from this will shame her into paying me. 'I think she knew she had no money before she filled her car up with petrol from the way she turned her bag upside down the moment she got to the counter. 'Its incredible to think of all the hassle shes caused me and herself over such a small amount of money because she would have had to apply for a new driving licence to replace the one she left behind. 'I had a friends funeral to attend this morning and was worried at one point I wouldnt make it when the court case didnt start on time. Hard times: The 44-year-old, set to have a hysterectomy later this month after revealing she has womb cancer, was ordered to stand trial after being arrested 'Having to take time out to deal with things like this is an unnecessary inconvenience when Ive got a family business to run and two young children to look after. 'But I went through with this because people like her shouldnt think they can get away with it. 'Even if I dont end up getting my money back, hopefully it will make this woman think twice before trying it on again next time.' Danniella was held over the unpaid fuel bill when her name flagged up on a police database at passport control as she went to board a flight back to the UK on April 23. She was hauled to court in Malaga after a night in a police cell but released after being told a criminal complaint had already been lodged with the court in Velez Rubio and she had to turn up for trial there on Wednesday. Her arrest came just days after she was held in the UK over allegations of 'malicious communications and witness intimidation.' Pals wrongly claimed after her Malaga detention she had been held over an alleged driving offence. She confessed after her arrests she was feeling 'ugly and sad' before jetting to Gran Canaria for a second sunshine holiday to try to leave her woes behind her. Danniella shared her hopes of getting married following her womb cancer diagnosis. She is set to have a hysterectomy and has admitted she has been terrified by the thought of dying. Court officials in Spain confirmed on Wednesday the TV personality had not sought to delay the trial on medical grounds or advised the court herself or through a lawyer she would not be attending. The Bachelor's Brooke Blurton might have dramatically walked out of the mansion on Wednesday ending her chances with Nick Cummins. But the Indigenous youth worker, 23, still appears to have her eye on a someone from the show. Speaking to New Idea magazine on Thursday, Brooke gushed over season four winner Alex Nation, who identifies as bisexual. Scroll down to video 'I think she's absolutely beautiful': The Bachelor's Brooke Blurton, 23, has gushed over former Bachelor winner Alex Nation, saying she's open to falling in love with a man or a woman in her next relationship 'I think she's absolutely beautiful,' she told the publication. 'I don't know her that well... We live in different states but maybe we will cross paths.' In the past, Brooke has hinted that she considers herself a pansexual, rather than bisexual. 'I don't really see a difference gender wise, it's more focused on the connection and chemistry I feel with someone and what they have to bring to the table,' she told the publication. 'Whether it's a girl or a guy, I am open and honest with it.' Elsewhere in the interview, Brooke confirmed she isn't seeing anyone, instead saying she's focused on herself. 'Maybe we will cross paths': Brooke seemed enamored with openly bisexual Alex - who won Richie Strahan's season of The Bachelor. She then entered into a high-profile lesbian romance ''I don't really see a difference gender wise': Brooke, who dates women and men, said she was focused on the connection and chemistry she feels with someone On Wednesday night's episode, dramatic scenes saw Brooke walk out of the Bachelor mansion after Nick failed to reassure her of his feelings. Clad in a semi-sheer black dress, Brooke tearfully informed the hunk that she needed more 'reassurance' and 'certainty' from him. 'I came here to fall in love... I need a guy that knows what he wants and can tell me that's me,' Brooke said as a single tear rolled down her cheek. 'I came here to fall in love... I need a guy that knows what he wants,' Brooke said to Nick on Wednesday, before dramatically walking out of the mansion Nick, who wore a tailored black suit, gave Brooke his full attention as she announced: 'I need to go home.' This week, it was reported that Brooke could be the next Bachelorette with TV executives keen to sign her, according to a report in New Idea magazine. Insiders reportedly told the publication that should the 23-year-old sign on, producers 'want to cast both males and females'. 'That's a game-changer for Australian television and it's going to get fans talking, so the network bosses see it as a ratings success,' the source reportedly said. Now, with Brooke having left the mansion, Nick will now choose between property valuer Sophie Tieman, 25, and radiographer Brittany Hockley, 30. The Bachelor finale will air on Channel Ten on Thursday night, 7.30pm. Advertisement Excitement for The Crown's forthcoming third season is reaching fever pitch. So fans will undoubtedly be thrilled to see the ball rolling further on-set as Game Of Thrones star Tobias Menzies was seen kicking off his role as Prince Philip while filming the recreation of the horror Aberfan disaster near Merthyr Tydfil. Looking the part, the 44-year-old actor was spotted in the back of a black car while recreating the aftermath of the tragedy in the small Welsh mining village which claimed the lives of 144 victims in 1966, while surrounded by mourners. Crowning glory: The Crown fans will undoubtedly be thrilled to see the ball rolling further on-set as Game Of Thrones star Tobias Menzies was seen kicking off his role as Prince Philip while filming the recreation of the horror Aberfan disaster near Merthyr Tydfil In mourning: Cast were filmed ring carrying wreaths as part of a funeral procession Prince Philip notably visited the scene of the disaster at 11am the next morning, following the visit of Lord Snowdon, the Queen's brother-in-law, where he spoke with workers and parents. One week later, the Duke of Edinburgh and the Queen visited the site of the tragedy to pay their respects to those who had died. Haunting photos from the day show the Royals walking with officials from Aberfan, as the main rescue phase of the disaster concluded. The Queen was presented with a bunch of flowers from a young girl, with the inscription reading 'From the remaining children of Aberfan.' Spitting image: Tobias looked sombre as he sat in the back of a car while filming the emotional scenes, clad in a fitted black suit and matching tie, paired with a black overcoat Sadness; Tobias was stony-faced as he took instruction from the director Transformation: The actor transformed into the stoic Royal as he filmed the hard-hitting scenes Close to their heart: The Duke of Edinburgh and the Queen visited the site of the tragedy to pay their respects to those who had died, eight days later Haunting: Extras dressed as mourning parents formed a haunting funeral procession for filming The Queen's late private secretary Lord Charteris later said failing to visit the site sooner was the monarch's biggest regret. When asked by former Conservative MP Gyles Brandreth if the Queen had ever put a foot wrong, he responded 'Aberfan.' Tobias looked sombre as he sat in the back of a car while filming the emotional scenes, clad in a fitted black suit and matching tie, paired with a black overcoat. Heartbreaking: A child's coffin was seen in a funeral hearse during the filming Realistic: Tobias has taken over from Matt Smith in playing the role of the Queen's husband Heartbreak: Tobias looked heartbroken as he channeled the Royal's grief Tears: One of the bereaved families wept as they attended the mass funeral for 81 of the children and one woman on October 28 1966 Recreation: The actors transformed into grieving parents for the funeral procession The actor was surrounded by a procession of extras playing the part of mourners, dressed in 60s garb and carrying funereal wreaths. The harrowing scenes saw the Royal at the head of the funeral procession, with black police cars topped with wreaths following closely behind. The procession saw actors who appeared to be playing the parents of the 116 child victims walking down the street. Here he is: BAFTA winner Jason Watkins will play prime minister Harold Wilson in the drama Uncanny: The star was the spitting image of the iconic PM as he walked along the street Presence: Wilson visited the scene where he heard reports from the police and civil defence forces March: Extras clad in 60s attire carried bouquets during the funeral procession Sadness: The actors were clad in funeral garb for the harrowing scenes Tragedy: Tobias looked sombre as he prepared to film the harrowing scenes Procession: A convoy of funeral cars topped with wreaths made their way up the high street Tribute: The extras carried flowers as they played the part of the grieving families of Aberfan Filming also took place outside the recreation of the Pantglas Junior School where the disaster happened. The first funerals for five of the children took place on October 25. A mass funeral for 81 children and one woman took place at the town's Bryntaf Cemetery on October 27. The victims were buried in a pair of 24m trenches, with 10,000 people in attendance. The last victim was found on October 28, seven days after the disaster. Filming got underway in Cwmaman, Wales last week, with the latest series of the drama exploring the Queen's response to the tragedy in the Welsh mining village. An entire generation was almost wiped out when 150,000 tonnes of coal waste slid down the hillside before engulfing Pantglas Junior School on October 21 1966. The disaster killed 116 children and 28 adults. Shocking: The heartbreaking accident devastated the whole areas leading to a huge union of the local community An additional six adults and 29 children were injured. Pictures from the set show extras and cast members clad in 60s garb, with retro cars dotted around the set. Production teams were also working on a recreation of the Pantglas Junior School, where the disaster happened. Cwmaman is around 15 miles from Aberfan. Heartbreaking: The scenes were undoubtedly tough to film following the heartbreaking incident Flowing along: Series three of The Crown commenced filming in July this year, covering Queen Elizabeth II's rule across the 1960s and 1970s The disaster unfolded following days of heavy rain, when excavated mining debris from the Merthyr Vale Colliery became dislodged and tumbled down the hillside. Waste material had been piled in a mound on the side of Mynydd Merthyr, above Aberfan, for years, even though there were numerous underground springs below. Children in Pantglas Junior School were about to start their lessons at around 12pm when 1.5 million cubic feet of liquefied slurry crashed onto the school and a number of nearby houses. The slurry demolished and engulfed the building, filling classrooms with thick mud and rubble. About half the children from the junior school were killed in the tragedy, which happened on the last day before half term. Shocking: The disaster unfolded following days of heavy rain, when excavated mining debris from the Merthyr Vale Colliery became dislodged and tumbled down the hillside Devastation: Witnesses said the noise of the impending avalanche sounded like a low-flying jet or thunder Salute: Police and army officers saluted Tobias' car during filming Procession: The crew were seen surveying the procession as filming got underway Discussion: Extras in army uniform made their way to the set Recreating the heartache: Desperate parents rushed to the scene and clawed at the mud with their bare hands, clinging to the hope that the sons and daughters they waved off just hours earlier might have survived Filming: Extras playing the part of the relief crew were seen carrying shovels on the set Drama: After the disaster, residents rushed to the school and began digging through the rubble with their bare hands and garden tools Doppelganer: Jason looked focused ahead of his scenes as the prime minister Witnesses said the noise of the impending avalanche sounded like a low-flying jet or thunder. Desperate parents rushed to the scene and clawed at the mud with their bare hands, clinging to the hope that the sons and daughters they waved off just hours earlier might have survived. Some school staff were killed trying to protect the children. School meals clerk, Nansi Williams, threw herself onto five children, who all survived. When her body was recovered, she was holding a pound note she had been collecting for lunch money. Deputy headmaster David Beynon, attempted to use a blackboard to protect himself and five children from the slurry engulfing the school, but he and his 34 students were killed. Lights, camera, action: Police cars lined the streets on the set Shocking: An extra dressed in a black velvet cape carried a large bunch of flowers during filming Devastation: Mourners dressed in black made their way up the hillside during filming Haunting: Extras covered in soot were seen wielding shovels as they reenacted the rescue mission 1960s: The cast of the drama looked focused as they filmed the dramatic scenes Throwback: A vintage fire engine and ambulance were seen as the rescue mission was recreated Filming: The extensive mission continued for days after the disaster occured Digging: Extras carried shovels as they prepared to film the heart-rending scenes Tragedy: The actors were covered in soot stains ahead of the filming Coal bosses had been warned about 'flowslides' prior to the disaster and, despite a 76-day public inquiry, no-one faced prosecution or lost their job. In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Aberfan Disaster Memorial Fund (ADMF) was set up, and gathered donations totalling 1.75 million. Remaining tips were removed following a fight by residents of the village, after the government and NCB had protested about the cost. Back in time: The actor looked out on the crowd as he was driven along Instruction: Filming started on the harrowing scenes last week Haunting: Tobias looked focused as he took instructions from his director Procession: The actor waited in his car as he prepared to film Solidarity: Extras dressed in military uniform lined the streets as the procession went by Mining village: The scenes are being shot in Cwmaman, 15 miles from Aberfan Heartbreak: The funeral cars went past a playground as the streets fell silent for the filming United in grief: The harrowing scenes will be shown on the third series of The Crown Sombre: The extras were seen chatting in between takes A tribute: Some of the extras toted a flower tribute along the road in solemn scenes Speeding along: The funeral was in full swing as they shot the scenes Series three of the Netflix drama is expected to be released in 2019, with Olivia Colman taking over Claire Foy's role as Queen Elizabeth II and Tobias playing the Prince, following Matt Smith's portrayal of the royal. Helena Bonham Carter will play Princess Margaret. Fans will get to see the turbulent journey in Margaret and Lord Snowdon's marriage, eventually leading to their split in 1978 - a controversy among the royal family at the time. Margaret's marriage to Lord Snowdon was seen by fans in the show's second series, as she fell in love with the dashing aristocrat and decided to marry him in what proved a surprise to some. Despite a few years of happiness, the marriage disintegrated, with Lord Snowdon uninterested in settling down as a Royal husband, and spent much of their relationship travelling as a photographer. She revealed that she was raped at age 14 in an heartfelt and emotional Instagram post last week. Appearing on the Ellen DeGeneres Show on Wednesday, Busy Philipps broke down in tears when she talked about how she was inspired by Dr. Christine Blasey Ford's testimony against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. 'It wasnt something that I felt like I was ever going to blast out on social media. But when I saw her (Dr. Ford) standing there, speaking her truth after 30 years, I was like, its been 25 for me. I can do this. We can all do this.' Heartfelt: Busy Philipps got emotional during an appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres Show on Wednesday Courageous revelation: The actress said she was inspired to talk about her rape at age 14 by Dr. Christine Blasey Ford's testimony against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh Busy added: 'I feel like its a real moment of reckoning for women, that we have sort of collectively carried this burden for so long. And its time to share it.' The actress then began to chock up and shed some tears when she looked up at a picture of herself at 14 that was in a large monitor behind her and Ellen. 'It was hard. And really scary... sorry I am a crier. I have a 10-year-old. So when I look at that baby, I see my kid. Its sadly the most unoriginal horror. Ive struggled with it for so long.' Rallying cry: 'I feel like its a real moment of reckoning for women, that we have sort of collectively carried this burden for so long. And its time to share it' Honest and brave: The actress chocked up and shed some tears when she looked up at a picture of herself at 14 that was in a large monitor behind her and Ellen Busy at 14: This is the picture that was shown in the monitor that evoked tears from the star It was at that moment that Ellen revealed she too was the victim of abuse. 'I was 15 and I had something happen to me,' she recalled. 'You just get so angry when someone doesn't believe you or say why did you wait so long. It's because we're girls and were taught not to say anything and go along with it.' Busy also revealed that she wrote abut her harrowing experience in her upcoming memoir This Will Only Hurt a Little. Having the conversation: Busy wrote abut her harrowing experience in her upcoming memoir This Will Only Hurt a Little 'I told my parents and my older sister five months ago, when the book was finished and I had come to peace that I was going to speak my truth,' the Dawson's Creek alum confessed. Ellen added: 'This conversation needs to happen more. And people need to teach your children to speak up and dont ever keep something in and dont ever be ashamed and think that its your problem and your fault. It's never your fault, you're a child.' Busy also explained that her memoir also goes into 'the fun Hollywood stories' and where she came from, as well as the harder experiences in her life. This Will Only Hurt a Little will be available October 16. She won an Emmy for her role as the Queen in Netflix hit, The Crown, this year. Yet Claire Foy wasnt treated like royalty when security guards denied her entry to the prestigious awards afterparty - despite her holding her Leading Actress gong. Appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Tuesday, the 34-year-old actress revealed how Queer Eye star Jonathan Van Ness came to her rescue. Party snub: Claire Foy wasnt treated like royalty when security guards denied her entry to the prestigious awards afterparty - despite her holding her Leading Actress gong Speaking on the show Claire said: I didnt have trouble, I didnt get in. I was mortified. Jonathan Van Ness, he was my knight in a white suit. The actor stunned on the programme as she opted for an all white ensemble, while complementing the suit with a pair of barely-there heels. Claire's cropped brunette locks were swept to one side while she wore a slick of eyeliner and lipstick to accentuate her pretty features. Glamour: Claire's cropped brunette locks were swept to one side while she wore a slick of eyeliner and lipstick to accentuate her pretty features Dazzling: The actor stunned on the programme as she opted for an all white ensemble, while complementing the suit with a pair of barely-there heels Mates: The 34-year-old actress revealed how Queer Eye star Jonathan Van Ness came to her rescue The actor is currently jetting around the world promoting her acclaimed new movie First Man and was all smiles as she attended a special BAFTA screening for the film in New York on Tuesday night. The Crown star looked gorgeous in an elegant navy jumper with a daringly low-cut neckline and a stunning midi-skirt. She complemented the ensemble with a pair of matching black peep-toe heels and a sophisticated gold chain. Busy: The actor is currently jetting around the world promoting her acclaimed new movie First Man Just witnessed crazy #EMMYS moment:Queen almost couldnt get into Governors Ball. Claire Foy, best actress in drama winner, denied entry because of ripped ticket that prevented her team from entering back entrance until @jvn came to rescue after gushing over how much he loves her pic.twitter.com/uamQmpZiB4 Chris Gardner (@chrissgardner) September 18, 2018 Cheerful: Claire was all smiles as she attended a special BAFTA screening of First Man in New York on Tuesday night The actor's new film - directed by Damien Chazelle - is based on a true story and follows the life of Neil Armstrong on his quest to become the first man to walk on the moon. Claire, who plays Ryan Gosling's wife in the motion picture, went to great lengths in the hopes of channelling her character Janet in the most authentic way possible. During an interview on BBC with Tom Ravenscroft, Claire revealed she had time to familarise herself with the role of Janet, alongside her on-screen husband Ryan. Friends: The 34-year-old actress beamed as she sat with the film's director Damien Chazelle for a question and answer session Laughter: The Crown star looked gorgeous in an elegant navy jumper with a daringly low-cut neckline and a stunning midi-skirt 'We had two weeks of improvised film rehearsal, many of scenes are in the film. We had time to get to know each other. There were happy moments and Ryan was carrying the whole ship!' Mark Armstrong, one of the late astronaut's three children, opened up about the experience of seeing just how focused the British-born star was when it came to filming scenes for the movie. 'When I saw her on screen, I was overwhelmed with emotion,' Armstrong reveals. 'Mum only passed away recently so, to see her up there, alive and so real it was incredible. First Man: The actor's new film is based on a true story and follows the life of Neil Armstrong on his quest to become the first man to walk on the moon Pals: The actor's new film is based on a true story and follows the life of Neil Armstrong on his quest to become the first man to walk on the moon 'Foy wanted to know the minutiae. Mum called me Marco and my brother Ricky. She wanted to know the balance and strength of my mother. What she was really like?' He added: 'Claire captured Mum's essence. She communicates so many feelings without words. I got very emotional.' First Man is said to be in the running of being nominated for Best Picture at the 90th Academy Awards, but official nominations for next year's Oscars ceremony will be announced later this year. Funny: Claire, who plays Ryan Gosling's wife in the motion picture, went to great lengths in the hopes of channelling her character Janet in the most authentic way possible As a world famous movie star, Zac Efron is often swarmed with adoring fans. But the renowned hunk found himself in the throws of quite a different crowd on Wednesday, as he was seen surrounded by a flock of sheep while vacationing in Sardinia, Italy. 'Traffic these days,' the 30-year-old Neighbors actor captioned the Instagram clip. Baa! Zac Efron found himself caught in a curious traffic jam full of sheep during a video shared from his vacation to Sardinia on Wednesday Zac's travel look was simple, consisting of a powder blue shirt, shorts and a backwards hat. He also added a charitable touch to his look in the form of his socks; Zac wore a pair of sport-style athletics socks from Bombas, which donates a pair of socks to the homeless and those in need for every pair purchased. The muscular star looked rugged as he sported a wiry beard. He crouched down to give a good look at the legion of lambs behind him. Poking fun at his tourist status, the Italian standard Tu Vuo Fa L'Americano (which translates to You Want To Be American) roared in the background. Following the herd: Zac's travel look was simple, consisting of a powder blue shirt, shorts and a backwards hat You wish! Poking fun at his tourist status, the Italian standard Tu Vuo Fa L'Americano (which translates to You Want To Be American) roared in the background The actor is set to celebrate his 31st birthday October 18. He's been enjoying the sights and sounds of Europe lately, seen relaxing in Paris late last week. Posing alone with the Eiffel Tower in the background, the Baywatch babe added the caption: 'Love in Paris.' Self love: Posing alone with the Eiffel Tower in the background, the Baywatch babe added the caption: 'Love in Paris' It's a welcome break for the star who has a busy 2019 planned ahead. He's featured in the upcoming Harmony Korine picture The Beach Bum, where he acts besides Matthew McConaughey. Also set for release this year is the Ted Bundy biopic Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil And Vile, where he'll play the notorious serial killer himself. The picture is in post-production but has yet to set a release date. Surf's up: He's featured in the upcoming Harmony Korine picture The Beach Bum, where he acts besides Matthew McConaughey She plays a Russian spy who investigates a Silicon Valley tech billionaire in the forthcoming action comedy. And Olga Kurylenko turned heads as she attended a special screening of Johnny English Strikes Again with co-star Rowan Atkinson at London's Curzon Mayfair Cinema on Wednesday evening. The James Bond star, 38, displayed her sartorial flair as she commanded attention in a feathered strapless blouse, showcasing her toned and bronzed decolletage. Co-stars: Olga Kurylenko turned heads as she attended a special screening of Johnny English Strikes Again with Rowan Atkinson at London's Curzon Mayfair Cinema on Wednesday Posing up a storm on the red carpet, the Oblivion actress tied in her ensemble with a pair of lilac leather trousers, which featured ribbon details around the waist and cuffs. Olga injected her bright look with even more colour as she added to her frame in a pair of turquoise strappy heels. Letting her outfit do the talking, the Hitman star opted for minimal accessories as she donned a pair of gold studs. Working it! The James Bond star, 38, displayed her sartorial flair as she commanded attention in a feathered strapless blouse, showcasing her toned and bronzed decolletage Wow-factor! Posing up a storm on the red carpet, the Oblivion actress tied in her ensemble with a pair of lilac leather trousers, which featured ribbon details around the waist and cuffs Commanding attention: Olga injected her bright look with even more colour as she added to her frame in a pair of turquoise strappy heels She lived up to her vixen persona as she complemented her beauty with a soft smoky eye combo, dewy foundation and a nude lipgloss. Olga framed her stunning visage with loose curls as she took to the red carpet with the Mr. Bean star, 63. Rowan cut a typically dapper figure as he donned a midnight blue suit, completed with a silk tie and crisp white shirt. Radiant: Letting her outfit do the talking, the Hitman star opted for minimal accessories as she donned a pair of gold studs Looking good: She lived up to her vixen persona as she complemented her beauty with a soft smoky eye combo, dewy foundation and a nude lipgloss Hi, there: Olga framed her stunning visage with loose curls as she took to the red carpet with the Mr. Bean star, 63 Wow: Olga effortlessly worked her angles at the event Rowan first took on the role as an awkward secret agent alongside Natalie Imbruglia in the first installment of Johnny English in 2003. In a teaser released earlier this year, the screen star showcased his enthusiastic skills once again in a trailer for the third film of the spy sequel. In the clip, Rowan completes an array of challenging tasks as he is joined by Olga, who plays agent Ophelia. Suave: Rowan cut a typically dapper figure as he donned a midnight blue suit, completed with a silk tie and crisp white shirt Exciting: In Johnny English Strikes Again, fans will see the main character tackle the efforts of a criminal hacker, who attempts to reveal the identities of British spies (pictured with director David Kerr) Sequel: The first film, released in 2003, saw Johnny become the country's sole spy after an attack on the MI5, while the second took him on a mission to China In Johnny English Strikes Again, set for release on October 5, fans will see the character tackle the efforts of a criminal hacker, who attempts to reveal the identities of British spies. The trailer kicks off with an insight into the spy's low-key life as a school teacher, while he eagerly awaits his next mission. As he embarks on the difficult task, the award-winning star is seen driving recklessly in a red car along the Mediterranean coast of southeastern France. L-R: Chris Clark, David Kerr, Olga Kurylenko, Rowan Atkinson and Tim Bevan People pleaser: Olga did her best to entertain her fans Happy: The smiles continues as she hopped into an awaiting vehicle In one hilarious scene, Johnny's partner Angus (played by Ben Miller) shares a heart-warming hug with the spy, to which he responds: 'We're going on a mission, not a honeymoon!' The pair continue to adhere to their clumsy ways, as they are seen hiding behind a bush while a glitzy dinner party erupts in flames. Rowan was spotted filming action-packed scenes with co-star Olga for the upcoming movie in the French Riveria in October last year. Dapper: Roman Kemp (L) cut a sophisticated figure in a plum suit, while the film's director David, 51, looked equally stylish in a grey two-piece Monochrome magic: Olly Murs caught the eye in a bold checked suit, which he teamed with a bright orange T-shirt for a pop of colour Strike a pose: The X Factor star, 34, pulled a funny facial expression as he took to the star-studded red carpet Busy bee: Olly's appearance comes hours after he announced his huge UK arena tour in support of his forthcoming studio album You Know, I Know, set for release on November 9 Industry pals: The singer appeared in high spirits as he joined comedian Roman on the red carpet A teaser was released just hours before the trailer, which displayed flashback scenes of the first two movies from the chart-topping series. The first film saw Johnny become the country's sole spy after an attack on the MI5, while the second took him on a mission to China. The original, which also starred John Malkovich alongside Rowan, grossed almost 22million domestically, while 2011's Johnny English Reborn pulled in a comparatively meagre 6.2million. In March last year, Rowan - who is worth at estimated 70million - released Top Funny Comedian solely for the billion-strong Chinese market. The film pulled in an impressive 7.4million, despite not being released to the rest of the world. Auditions for season two of American Idol on ABC kicked-off in late August. And on Tuesday all-star judges-- Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie -- joined the fold in the search for the next singing sensation inside an Air Force hanger in Denver, Colorado. To mark the beginning of judge auditions, the show released several behind-the-scenes photos and videos on Instagram. 'Season 2 ready for takeoff!' was written in the caption of a picture showing the judges dressed in flights suits. It's back : American Idol judge auditions kicked off inside an Air Force hanger in Denver on Tuesday; 'Season 2 ready for takeoff!' was written in the caption of a promo picture showing Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie dressed in flights suits Show producers also shared a sweet photo of Ryan Seacrest greeting Katy, Lionel and Luke in the dressing room before the event kicked off with the caption: 'Family reunion.' Once the stars got changed out of their flight suits and into their personal fashion of choice, it was time to greet the Idol wannabes. 'American Idol auditions have landed here in Denver, Colorado and our judges are just inside a hanger and they are ready to hear the best voices in America take Flight,' Ryan announced to the crowd in an Insta-Story video. The team: Another Instagram photo showed host Ryan Seacrest chatting with the judges with the caption: 'Family reunion' Get down and boogie: 'These Denver contestants know how to kickoff Judge Auditions! Dance party...and a unicycle?!' it said in the caption of this photo that showed the crowd whipping dancing outside the Air Force hanger It's an institution: This will be the 17th edition of American Idol and the second since the show was rebooted on ABC Grand arrival: Ryan announced the premiere of Idol judge auditions in Denver in an Insta-Story Dramatic: The 'stage was set' before the judges made their grand arrival To add to the drama, there's a picture of a piano with the headline 'Stage is set.' There's also a quick video of the judges getting on the traveling Idol stage for the auditions with the headline: 'Class is back in session.' After 16-seasons of the hit show, which began in 2002 on Fox, the contestants appear to be just as excited as ever. 'These Denver contestants know how to kickoff Judge Auditions! Dance party...and a unicycle?!' it said in the caption of a photo that showed the crowd whipping it up and dancing outside the Air Force hanger. The excitement now heads to Idaho for the next stop of the judge auditions, which is the home state of last season's winner Maddie Poppe. Host with the most: 'American Idol auditions have landed here in Denver, Colorado and our judges are just inside a hanger and they are ready to hear the best voices in America take Flight,' Ryan announced to the crowd of Idol wannabes Wardrobe change: The judges changed out of their flight suits for the auditions in Denver The build-up: Show producers piled on to the 'Flight' theme for the judge auditions premiere with 'we found our crew' Mark Wright has been slammed by fans after praising Theresa May's party conference speech on Wednesday. The former TOWIE star, 31, ignited ire among his 2.88m Twitter followers when he wrote: 'I think @theresamay spoke well today. Sounded confident. Right now she's our prime minister, we need to back her and give her confidence. 'Trying to bring her or her party down is not going to help our country 1 bit. Let's stick together !!' Fury: Mark Wright has been slammed by fans after praising Theresa May's party conference speech on Wednesday Support: The former TOWIE star, 31, ignited ire among his 2.88m Twitter followers when he wrote: 'I think @theresamay spoke well today. Sounded confident. Right now she's our prime minister, we need to back her and give her confidence' Despite his warm words, his fans were quick to call out the Extra TV presenter for his political views, with one commenting that due to him living in America he should not be airing his views on British politics. One fan wrote: 'Spoken like a man. A man with more money than sense who has never had to worry about whether to buy food or have the heating on, a man who has absolutely no idea how other have to live.Stick to talking about pretty things and first class travel.' Another added: 'unfollowing' while another wrote: 'seriously? Have you had your account hacked?! #educateyourself man.' One fan wrote: 'stick to the cheap and tacky adverts matey' while another added: 'get a grip .. she's crippling the NHS and police force.' Unity: He wrote: 'Trying to bring her or her party down is not going to help our country 1 bit. Let's stick together !!' Backlash: Despite his warm words, his fans were quick to call out the Extra TV presenter for his political views, with one commenting that due to him living in America he should not be airing his views on British politics Another wrote: 'Get real Mark. Tory cuts are killing people' while another added: 'Are you actually serious? You need to educate yourself before making comments like this.' 'Lets stick together? Coming from the man who mainly lives and works in the US?' while another wrote: 'keep your politics to yourself while living and working in America 80% of the time.' MailOnline has contacted Mark's representative for comment. Theresa May declared the age of austerity over with a message to voters that 'there are better days ahead' in her speech on Wednesday. In her crucial keynote speech to the Conservative conference in Birmingham, the PM said next year's post-Brexit Spending Review will set out a programme of increased investment for public services, as a mark that the decade of cuts following the financial crash is coming to an end. And she announced a new cancer strategy to increase early detection of the illness and save 55,000 lives a year by 2028, along with a ninth successive annual freeze in fuel duty. Admitting that the housing market is 'broken', she announced she was lifting the cap on councils borrowing to fund new developments, with the aim of 'building the homes this country needs'. In a speech designed to rally her party behind her following a conference riven by differences over Brexit, Mrs May warned that squabbling over the details of EU withdrawal might mean 'ending up with no Brexit at all'. Standing firmly by the Chequers plan which was denounced by Boris Johnson as a 'constitutional outrage',she promised: 'If we stick together and hold our nerve, I know we can get a deal that delivers for Britain.' It has been over 10 years since she starred on The O.C., the iconic teenage series which served as the inspiration for MTV's Laguna Beach and The Hills. And now Mischa Barton has confirmed she has joined the cast of The Hills reboot. The actress, 32, posted a video of herself declaring 'Welcome to The Hills, b*tch!' as she took off her sunglasses while listening to the original theme song, Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield. 'Welcome to The Hills, b*tch!' Mischa Barton confirmed she joined the cast of The Hills reboot on Wednesday Sounds familiar! Barton was listening to the theme song from The Hills, Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield 'The secret's out,' Mischa began in the Instagram video caption. 'I'm joining the cast of The Hills. When MTV approached me with the chance to be a part of the reality show that was inspired by The OC, it felt like the perfect opportunity for an irresistibly inviting new chapter.' From 2003 to 2006, Mischa played Marissa Cooper on The O.C., a series about an affluent group of teenagers living in Southern California. 'She was around back in the day and went to all the clubs,' an insider told Page Six of Mischa. 'She could make for good TV.' It's been a few years since Mischa appeared on television, with her more recent small screen credits including roles in Young Hollywood and the Freeform show Recovery Road. She's back! Barton said joining the cast of The Hills reboot was the 'perfect opportunity for an irresistibly inviting new chapter' They're back! Many of the original stars, including Spencer, Heidi, and Stephanie Pratt, will be returning to the reboot She's set to have a busy year ahead, with credits in movies such as The Basement, Papa, and The Malevolent. The cast of The Hills caused a frenzy in August when they appeared at the VMA Awards together to announce the upcoming reboot, The Hills: New Beginnings. The reboot is show is going ahead with Audrina Patridge, Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt and their baby Gunner as well as Jason Wahler, Frankie Delgado, Justin Bobby Brescia, Whitney Port and Stephanie Pratt. The original: Mischa played Marissa Cooper on The O.C., a series about an affluent group of teenagers which served as the inspiration for Laguna Beach It's a hit! Barton starred opposite Ben McKenzie and Peter Gallagher on The O.C. But stars Lauren Conrad, Kristin Cavallari, and Lo Bosworth will not be returning. Kristin now stars on the E! reality series following her life in Nashville, Very Cavallari. Her commitment to her own show precludes her from rejoining The Hills. But still, Kristin is excited to see the series return to television. 'I'm just as excited as everybody else to see it. I've been talking to Heidi and Audrina and so, I of course would love to be part of it,' she told E!. The Hills: New Beginnings is set to premiere next year. He's been busy promoting his new movie A Star Is Born with co-star Lady Gaga. But on Wednesday, Bradley Cooper took a day off from his hectic work schedule to stroll through New York City with partner Irina Shayk and their one-year-old daughter, Lea. The 43-year-old actor-turned-director looked dapper in a royal blue suit for the family walk. Family fun day: On Wednesday, Bradley Cooper took a day off from his hectic work schedule to stroll through New York City with partner Irina Shayk and their one-year-old daughter, Lea Bradley paired the distinctive suit with a pair of matching suede shoes. He shielded his eyes with mirrored aviator shades as his young daughter balanced on his shoulders. His Russian supermodel girlfriend, meanwhile, looked elegant in a floral print blouse with a navy pencil skirt and accessorised her look with the double chain necklace by Missoma. The A-list couple had clearly been shopping, as both were loaded up with bags for the outing. Wearing the blues: The 43-year-old actor-turned-director looked dapper in a royal blue suit for the family walk Flower power: His Russian supermodel girlfriend, meanwhile, looked elegant in a floral print blouse with a navy pencil skirt Cooper recently spoke to W Magazine about welcoming now 17-month-old daughter Lea De Seine Shayk Cooper into the world just a week before shooting A Star Is Born. He talked about that hectic period of his life as he said: 'Id wake up and work out, followed by two hours of guitar practice and two hours of piano lessons. Lunch. Then Lukas Nelson [Willies son], my collaborator, would come over, and wed write music for one and a half hours. Id write the screenplay for the rest of the day. 'Irina was pregnant, so it was kind of perfect. Lea was born a week before we started shooting.' Bradley also talked about how he has essentially been doubted his entire career as he explained: 'But who knows? Ive heard it all in my career. Early on, I didnt get a role because they said I wasnt "f***able." His muse: Cooper's been busy promoting his new movie A Star Is Born with co-star Lady Gaga. The pair seen here last month 'In the end, you have to reserve your attention for the work and not listen to anyone.' He goes on to say that loved ones had even told him not to direct A Star Is born even saying that it would be too difficult and that he should be making his directorial debut with something 'easier.' Cooper explained: 'Luckily, I didnt listen. I loved that it was really, really hard to make this film. Otherwise, it wouldnt have the same value. And thats always been my goal: to make something, no matter how challenging, that will be remembered.' He also opened up about his relationship with Lady Gaga (born Stefani Germanotta) as he admitted that he wasn't familiar with her music but was blown away by her performance at a cancer benefit. She is currently jetting around the world promoting her new movie Red Joan. And during the premiere of the film at the Zurich Film Festival in Switzerland, the talented Dame Judi Dench was awarded once more for her acting prowess when given the Golden Icon Award for her lifework on Wednesday. The 83-year-old actress stunned in a lavish gold patterned jacket and a flowing black gown when attending the occasion. Winner: The talented Dame Judi Dench was awarded once more for her acting prowess when given the Golden Icon Award for her lifework on Wednesday at the 14th Zurich Film Festival Opting to accessorise with a long pendant necklace, the Oscar winner completed her regal look with a matching clutch. Looking glamorous with smokey eyeshadow and a slick of lip gloss, Judi was seen beaming as she took to the stage to accept the award. In her Red Joan movie, the actress will play the elder Joan, whose peaceful life as a retired physicist is turned upside down when she receives a visit from the MI5. Emotional: Looking glamorous with smokey eyeshadow and a slick of lip gloss, Judi was seen beaming as she took to the stage to accept the award Shaking hands: Judi greeted Zurich Film Festival director Karl Spoerri when at the premiere Stars: Opting to accessorise with a long pendant necklace, the Oscar winner completed her regal look with a matching clutch The film is inspired by the life of Melita Norwood, the KGB's longest-serving British spy. Earlier this week, the Dame was seen supporting her daughter Finty Williams during the Pack of Lies press night in London on Monday. The actress, 46, is in a revival of Hugh Whitemores 1983 play at the Menier Chocolate Factory in Southwark. Fans: The actress spent time writing autographs while she attended the Red Joan premiere during the 14th Zurich Film Festival Glamour: The 83-year-old actress stunned in a lavish gold patterned jacket and a flowing black gown when attending the occasion with Red Joan producer David Parfitt Spies: In her Red Joan movie, the actress will play the elder Joan, whose peaceful life as a retired physicist is turned upside down when she receives a visit from the MI5 She stars in the very role her mother played to acclaim during the original, as she's been cast as Barbara Jackson. Sporting a fetching black suit and matching lacy camisole top, Finty looked delighted to be stood next to Dame Judi. The Shakespeare in Love actress opted for a casual look when supporting her daughter back stage. True story: The film is inspired by the life of Melita Norwood, the KGB's longest-serving British spy Family: Finty Williams bore a striking resemblance to her mother as the pair posed together during the Pack of Lies press night in London on Monday Dame Judi wore a white top along with a pair of jeans and a long, cosy, cardigan. The Mrs Brown star admitted that she will always live in the shadow of her mother - who has won one Academy Award, a Tony, four television BAFTA Awards, six film, and seven Laurence Olivier Awards. Yet while she thinks her mother is amazing, Finty doesn't wish to be anyone else but herself. Beaming: Sporting a fetching black suit and matching lacy camisole top, Finty looked delighted to be stood next to Dame Judi Pressure: The Mrs Brown star admitted that she will always live in the shadow of her mother In an interview with The Times, Finty recently said: 'A lot of people want to go, "She's not as good as her mother," which is true, but I can also name you another 80 people who probably aren't as good.' She added: 'She is jaw-dropping, but I also happen to think that Helen McCrory is jaw-droppingly brilliant. I happen to think Ruth Wilson is jaw-droppingly brilliant. 'I don't aspire to be any of those people. I'm me, and I've got the cards that I've been dealt.' Pack of Lies will run at the Menier Chocolate Factory until November 17. Supportive: Dame Judi Dench appeared alongside some of the cast and production team He has been labelled the rudest man in Britain but historian Dr David Starkey proves he does have a softer side. The usually acerbic broadcaster tells me how he has been enduring a private turmoil of his own adjusting to the loss of his long-time partner who died aged 43. Speaking for the first time about the death of James Brown, who was 27 years his junior, he says: It has been a horrible time. It is particularly hard as his death was just so unexpected. The usually acerbic broadcaster tells me how he has been enduring a private turmoil of his own adjusting to the loss of his long-time partner who died aged 43, writes Sebastian Shakespeare Starkey, 73, met the book designer in the bar at the London School of Economics in the Nineties, and they had a sort of honeymoon in Bologna spending the next 21 years together at the homes they shared in England and America. James died three years ago at the couples 18th-century manor house in Kent. Starkey was talking at the unveiling of a new exhibition he has put together at Hever Castle, the Kent family home of Anne Boleyn. British historian Dr David Starkey poses with his partner James Brown after receiving his Commander of the British Empire (CBE) from Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace in October 2007 He admits work has been a distraction and he is currently trying to finish a biography of Henry VIII. History may be facts and chronology, he muses. But I dont think you can write a history book unless you have been in love. Asked about the secret of his relationship with Brown, Starkey once said: There has to be a high level of mutual tolerance and a thorough enjoyment of each others company. Its got to combine love and friendship, but also, you cant be captious. Starkey was the only child of poor Quaker parents in Kendal, Cumbria. His mother worked as a cleaner while his father was a foreman at a washing machine factory. The future historian was a precocious child, born with two club feet, and by the time he was 11 he had read the whole of Dickens and large portions of the Encyclopaedia Britannica. When he told his mother he was homosexual, she never forgave him. We maintained the shell of what had been there before but the topic kept coming up, he said. I regret that we were never reconciled. Paddington creator Michael Bonds daughter, Karen, plans to be an author as well. Im going to write my own novel, she tells me. Im not going to write a childrens book that would be a big mistake. And there definitely wont be any bears involved. Or any famous stations in London. It will be adult fiction. Lady Amelia channels her inner Uma Lady Amelia (pictured left) and Hollywood star Uma Thurman (pictured right) as Mia Wallace in Pulp Fiction Dubbed the most beautiful royal by society magazine Tatler, Lady Amelia Windsor isnt wasting any time capitalising on her acclaim. The 23-year-old granddaughter of the Duke and Duchess of Kent is the face of edgy make-up brand Illamasqua, who have dressed her up as the wildchild gangsters moll Mia Wallace the iconic character played by Uma Thurman in Pulp Fiction, above left. Why Brandreth's blissfully ignorant of all things Brexit Aged 70, Gyles Brandreth has discovered the secret of a happy life to avoid spending a single minute watching anything about Brexit on television or listening to it on radio, or reading about it. I now have time to read War And Peace for the first time; next up is going to be Proust, Brandreth tells me at the party marking the publication of Oscar: A Life, a biography of Oscar Wilde by Matthew Sturgis. Brandreth, president of the Oscar Wilde Society, says it is a lesson his son, Benet, a Remainer, has failed to learn. Hes put on weight sitting in front of the television, drinking wine, getting angry. Roger Daltrey of The Who has one unfulfilled ambition to appear in Doctor Who. I was almost in it in the Eighties, says Daltrey, 74. It was around the period that Bonnie Langford was in it and I know her so she spoke with the producers who loved the idea. We tried but it was a busy period with touring and recording. I was so unhappy we never got around to it but I am now hopeful that I may get the call up with the new female Doctor Jodie Whittaker. It would be a dream come true. Awkward! Headbutting Lily bumps into Orlando again Hollywood star Orlando Bloom (pictured left) and Lily Allen at a party in London this week Pop star Lily Allen faced an awkward moment when she bumped into Pirates Of The Caribbean star, Orlando Bloom, at a party in London this week. Arriving in a 4,178 Luisa Beccaria pink polka-dot frock, which she teamed with red nails and peroxide-blonde curls, the 33-year-old claimed just days before that the actor, 41, had tried to kiss her at a party several years ago. Maybe I just assumed he fancied me because it was part of my thing of having to think that everyone did, she recounted. Either way, I headbutted him so hard I knocked myself out, clean cold. I didnt mean to . . . I was very drunk. Arriving in a 4,178 Luisa Beccaria pink polka-dot frock, which she teamed with red nails and peroxide-blonde curls Sadie and Meg aren't over the (Primrose) Hill Sadie Frost and Meg Mathews attend the Sativa Test Kitchen pop-up dinner on October 2 in 2018 Stalwarts of the decadent Primrose Hill set in the Nineties, Sadie Frost and Meg Mathews were in fine fettle when they were reunited at a party in London. Jude Laws ex-wife Sadie, 53, and Britpop star Noel Gallaghers ex-wife Meg, 52, proved theyre just as close as they were when they were pictured together 18 years ago. Blonde Meg admits she gives mother nature a hand. After a 2,000 threadlift a non-surgical treatment that tackles sags and folds around the jawline in 2016, she declared: I still feel 20, but I want to keep my face looking fresh. Nicki Minaj is opening up to her millions of fans about some of the more difficult times of her life. The rapper posted two teaser clips from her upcoming documentary Queen on her Instagram, where she reveals how she tried to protect her mother from her abusive father as a child, and that she too became the victim in a violent relationship when she became an adult. 'Thats why maybe some people would describe me as abrasive or bitchy or whatever because I vowed from that age no man would ever abuse me, call me out my name, treat me like that,' Minaj said as she began to tear up. 'Then all of a sudden, that was my life.' Confession: Nicki Minaj released two teaser clips on her Instagram where she talks about her protecting her mother from her abusive father as a child In a second clip, the 35-year old star fought back tears as she talked about how the violent experiences left her with very little confidence to make music. 'Who was I going to inspire when I had nothing in me to give?' she wondered out loud. 'I let one human being make me so low that I didnt even remember who I was. I was scared to get in the studio. I didnt believe in myself.' But then came a moment of clarity when she relocated to Florida. 'All of a sudden, in Miami, I started catching a vibe as soon as I went to Miami,' she confessed. 'As soon as I changed locations, I started catching a vibe, and then one day, I got the vibe its time to go to New York.' Emotional: The 35-year old star fought back tears when she revealed that she too became the victim of domestic violence as an adult Pivotal moment: After losing confidence after the violent experiences, Nicki eventually had a moment of clarity when she moved to Miami: 'I started catching a vibe, and then one day, I got the vibe its time to go to New York' She goes on to say how that 'vibe' helped produce such songs as Good Form and Coco Chanel. At no point in the video clips does the Queens, New York native reveal the name of her abuser. The video clips come less than a month after Nicki fight with Cardi B at a VIP soiree during New York Fashion Week. The showdown, which was witnessed by countless guests, left Cardi with a welt on her head and a ripped couture gown. So far Minaj has not announced a release date for her Queen documentary. Her latest album, also titled Queen, was released in August. Introspection: The rapper said that 'vibe' she got in Miami helped produce such songs as Good Form and Coco Chanel It was recently revealed that her show Survival Of The Fittest will not be returning to the small screen following it's poor ratings. But Laura Whitmore still managed to crack a smile as she attended the VIP launch of Harry's Bar alongside Nicola Roberts in Marylebone's St Christophers Place on Wednesday evening. The TV host, 33, ensured all eyes were on her as she sported a heavily-sequinned slogan tee, emblazoned with the words 'Girl Gang'. Fashion mavens: Laura Whitmore (L) stunned onlookers as she attended the VIP launch of Harry's Bar alongside Nicola Roberts (R) in Marylebone's St Christophers Place on Wednesday Accentuating her toned thighs, the I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! NOW! star donned a pair of glossy skinny jeans, tied in with a sophisticated blazer. Laura injected her appearance with even more pazzazz as she toted an animal print clutch, and accessorised with a monochrome necktie and pointed heels. She opted for her signature beauty look, featuring softly-curled tresses, strokes of mascara on her lashes and a slick of matte red lipstick. Looking good: The TV host, 33, ensured all eyes were on her as she sported a heavily-sequinned slogan tee, emblazoned with the words 'Girl Gang' Stand-out: Accentuating her toned thighs, the I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! NOW! star donned a pair of glossy skinny jeans, tied in with a sophisticated blazer Chic: She opted for her signature beauty look, featuring softly-curled tresses, strokes of mascara on her lashes and a slick of matte red lipstick (pictured with L to R: Noelle Reno, Laura Pradelska, Louisa Connolly-Burnham and Dee Moran) Meanwhile, former Girls Aloud star Nicola, 32, took the plunge in a low-cut velvet skater dress, which cinched in at her waist with the help of a sleek belt. The Sound Of The Underground hitmaker finished off her sartorially savvy look with a pair of trendy thigh-high boots, and kept accessories at a minimum. While her auburn full fringe framed her visage, Nicola intensified the beauty of her porcelain complexion with rose-tinted blush and off-red lipstick. Turning heads: Meanwhile, former Girls Aloud star Nicola, 32, took the plunge in a low-cut velvet skater dress, which cinched in at her waist with the help of a sleek belt Commanding attention: The Sound Of The Underground hitmaker finished off her sartorially savvy look with a pair of trendy thigh-high boots, and kept accessories at a minimum Stunning: While her auburn full fringe framed her visage, Nicola intensified the beauty of her porcelain complexion with rose-tinted blush and off-red lipstick (pictured with Isaac Carew) Laura was flying solo to the event, without her boyfriend Iain Stirling, famed for being the hilarious Love Island narrator. Her cancelled show Survival Of The Fittest aired last February, and was intended as a winter version of Love Island, to fill the void. However it was recently revealed that it won't return to screens thanks to its ambitious budget and less-than-brilliant ratings. Cool: Model Isaac, 32, caught the eye in a bright striped jumper and dark wash jeans Striking: Amanda Cronin (L) wowed in a double-breasted jumpsuit while Jenni Falconer (R) took a walk on the wild side in an animal print dress Cosy: Jenni, 42, appeared in high spirits as she enjoyed date night with her husband James Midgley Industry pals: Noelle Reno and Laura Pradelska were also in attendance at the starry launch Laura previously revealed the couple met in 2017, before he travelled to Majorca for his voice-over commitments with the ITVBe show. I think the first time I met him was at the Childrens BAFTAs,' she told MailOnline in February. 'I was presenting an award and he won an award, so I met him there. 'I dont know if we were in other relationships but I was just friendly with him. That was before the last series of Love Island.' Busty: Imogen Hervey Bathurst nearly spilled out of her square-necked bodycon dress as she joined Martha Sitwell Dapper: Cheryl's ex-husband Jean-Bernard Fernandez-Versini (L) looked suave in his grey suit as he joined Princess Eugenie's fiance Jack Brooksbank (R) Beaming: Tag Warner and Chris Baber grinned from ear-to-ear as they mingled with guests at the bash Meanwhile, Iain previously touched upon his romance with Laura, admitting to punching above his weight by developing a romance with the TV presenter. I dont mind it, because it just means Ive done better havent I? he said. Ive got someone whos like me, but much, much better. And Lauras got someone whos like her, but much worse. I think Ive done quite well out of it, but Im dead happy because shes lovely and stuff. Dozens of education organisations have penned an open letter to Prime Minister Scott Morrison calling for a $1.9 billion funding boost for public schools. The Australian Education Union, Children and Young People with Disability, and numerous principals' associations are among the 26 signatories to the letter published on Tuesday. "Under your plan, 87 per cent of public schools will stay below the minimum level of funding required to meet the educational needs of their students by 2023, while private schools ... will receive a special deal of $4.6 billion," the letter says. The widow of a helicopter pilot killed in a suspected hit and run in the NSW Hunter Valley says the driver is a gutless coward. The body of New Zealand man Ian Pullen was found beside Carrington Street in Glenridding, near Singleton, about 5.35am on Saturday, police say. Forensic investigations are still underway but inquiries suggest the 44-year-old was struck and killed by a car some time after 4am. Mr Pullen was employed by the Rural Fire Service as a water bombing pilot and was in Australia to help fight bushfires. His devastated wife is now preparing to fly to Australia from New Zealand to collect his body. "He was there to keep Singleton safe, in case a bushfire broke out and to save people's lives and their houses," Vicki Pullen told the Seven Network on Monday. "He should be at home here, and he's not." She's urged the driver of the car to hand themselves in. "A coward, they're gutless," she said. "Come forward, admit what you've done, somebody knows something." Officers want to speak to anyone who saw a silver hatchback which reportedly pulled up alongside the body at 5.30am, with the female driver getting out to check on the man before driving away. A French man has been charged, accused of trespassing on a Sydney construction site and BASE jumping from the top of a crane. Police say the 24-year-old parachuted over several lanes of traffic and Darling Harbour for a short time before landing on Darling Drive in Pyrmont in the early hours of Tuesday. He was nabbed by Darling Harbour rangers and handed to police who charged him with entering enclosed land and risking the safety of others by jumping off a building or structure. He's been granted conditional bail ahead of a scheduled appearance at Downing Centre Local Court on October 17. AUBURN, AL - October 4, 2018 - Three Sixty {real estate} is pleased to welcome REALTOR(r) Hayden Moss to our East Alabama office. "I love exploring new houses and seeing what can be made of them." Hayden Moss, REALTOR(r) Hayden thrills in helping her clients find the house of their dreams and watching them make it into a home. New to Auburn, Hayden is originally from Dothan, AL. She attended a small private school called Houston Academy and then went on to the University of Alabama, where she majored in Human Environmental Sciences with a minor in Computer Application and Technology. Hayden is very close to her family back in Dothan, and she is excited to get to know Auburn better. She attends Church of the Highlands, and loves art, interior design, and cooking and reading. "Three Sixty has always been a great place for new REALTORS(r) to learn the profession. We are so excited to have Hayden start her professional career with us, and look forward to helping her find a home in the profession as I have for my entire career." Nonet Reese, Co-founder, Three Sixty {real estate} About Three Sixty Three Sixty is a full service real estate and development needs firm. Our primary goal is to take a project from concept to closing. Three Sixty will make the development, construction and sales process as smooth as possible by providing a consistent partner to maintain the integrity of projects as a whole. We strive to offer a unique real estate experience for clients, customers and real estate professionals alike. Through our forward-thinking and creative processes, Three Sixty has become the sought after firm to work with for real estate development and sales needs. As a respected and profitable real estate organization, we strive to make a positive impact on the communities that we serve. To learn more about Three Sixty visit us online www.concepttoclosing.com or call 334.887.3601. Media Contact: Julie Musheno, JKM Marketing Associates, 404.314.0309, julie.musheno@gmail.com. The independent commission which oversees NSW Police has moved to reassure the Sydney family of Gai Vieira that it's actively monitoring the force's investigation into how her car was T-boned by a cop car. The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission on Tuesday said it attended the scene of the critical incident last month "and continues to actively monitor the progress of the investigation". "The LECC's active monitoring will hopefully assure the public and the family of Mrs Vieira that the investigation is conducted in a satisfactory, thorough and objective manner," the commission said in a statement. "To date, the LECC has not found anything that suggests the investigation is inadequate or unsatisfactory in any way." NSW Police last week said the 40-year-old senior constable was being charged with dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm. He will face court in mid-November. Gai Vieira remains in a coma four weeks after being hit by the police car which was doing 124 km/h in a 70 zone without flashing lights or sirens. Her husband, horse racing identity Bert Vieira, last week said it had taken too long to charge the senior constable and he wanted him fired from the force. The family is planning to take civil action against NSW Police as they fight to have high-speed pursuits of minor offenders banned. A police spokesperson has said the officer's "duty status is under review". The LECC is an independent statutory body which aims to detect, investigate and expose serious misconduct within NSW Police. Sydney's expansive Centennial Park has joined Bondi Beach, Uluru and the MCG on the national heritage register. The listing offers the 200-hectare urban parkland an extra layer of protection against development and recognises its significant role in the nation's history, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said on Tuesday. "This place was where Australia was born," he told reporters in the park. "It was here that our federation was inaugurated, where our constitution was proclaimed." Mr Frydenberg said former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull had long advocated for the park in his former electorate to be added to the register. The treasurer said the listing helps the park's management build a more compelling case for extra funding and wouldn't impact its ability to host special events. Centennial Park was originally a swamp and then a water source for Sydney. It was redeveloped as a public park and opened on January 26 in 1888 - the centenary of the First Fleet's landing at Sydney Cove. It later hosted the proclamation of the constitution on January 1, 1901. A Queensland man has been found guilty of encouraging and helping his wife to take her own life over a plot to use her life insurance money to build a religious commune. Graham Robert Morant, 69, has been convicted by a Brisbane Supreme Court jury of aiding and counselling Jennifer Morant to kill herself on the Gold Coast in 2014. Morant was the sole beneficiary of her three life insurance policies totalling $1.4 million when she took her own life in November that year. Ms Morant lived with chronic back pain and found even the most simple everyday tasks difficult. But Morant persuaded her over the months before her death by telling her the funds would go towards a commune where he would be pastor. Morant claimed to police Ms Morant wanted to die, but two witnesses close to her testified she did not want to kill herself and was scared by his pressure on her to do so. Ms Morant did not have a terminal illness. The jury deliberated for a day-and-a-half before reaching its verdict on Tuesday. Members of the public gallery burst into tears after the verdict was handed down. Morant was denied bail ahead of his October 19 sentencing despite Justice Peter Davis accepting he is a low risk to the community and had never breached his bail conditions. "Consistent with the directions I gave the jury, the jury has concluded apart from the counselling, Ms Morant would not have ended her life," Justice Davis said. "The offences are serious." Justice Davis said Morant would be handed a jail sentence but it could be wholly or partially suspended based on the strength of submissions. 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) Lifeline 13 11 14 As Australians gathered to celebrate Christmas in Melbourne in 2016, aspiring terrorist Ibrahim Abbas was plotting to kill. He wanted to run down a police officer, use a machete to chop and kill Australian citizens, and if that plan failed, detonate a suicide vest in the middle of Federation Square. The place and time had to be significant, somewhere that would "instil fear the most", the confessed terror conspirator told police before turning on his family and friends. Ibrahim Abbas, 24, is giving evidence in the Supreme Court against his younger brother Hamza Abbas, 23, cousin Abdullah Chaarani, 27, and Ahmed Mohamed, 25. Chilling details of his plan have been revealed through Ibrahim Abbas's police interview after his arrest on December 22, 2016. "I was gonna run at them, slice their necks," he said. He talked of "chopping to kill" people with a machete and a backup suicide vest "so if police subdue me, I at least have that chance to take someone with me". He'd seen one used in an Islamic State video where a Kurdish prisoner had been "shredded". He told Australian Federal Police officers he had tried to recruit Hamza Abbas, Chaarani and Mohamed because a group could do more. He said they had been discussing the plan for a month, but he had been hinting to Chaarani for two years. "(A bomb-making video) put things into perspective. It's not as hard as we thought it was and so, um, we started preparations," he said. He claimed Chaarani and Mohamed were involved in discussions and on the day he intended to bring along Hamza Abbas and "I would put a vest on him". Ibrahim Abbas said his goal was to "cause as much chaos, destruction, fear, bloodshed" as possible. It was intended as a revenge attack for the deaths of Muslims killed in the fight against Islamic State. "So because Australia kills Muslims, OK, therefore I believe it's fine for me to kill Australians," he said. He discussed buying machetes, confessing it was because "it's not hard to kill a person with a machete, it just takes one slice to the neck". There were also failed attempts to make an explosive device, and scouting of other possible locations including St Kilda beach. He also revealed he'd ordered nothing be written down and that the accused men keep items intended to be used in the attack. "It sounds a bit selfish but that's just me taking my own precautions," he said. Hamza Abbas, Chaarani and Mohamed deny conspiring with Ibrahim Abbas to prepare an attack. The trial continues. A third man has been charged over a budget-eve brawl at a Liberal Party branch meeting in Sydney's south in mid-June. A 35-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday after attending St George Police Station. He was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company and is due to appear at Sutherland Local Court in late October. Detectives in early July arrested a 48-year-old man in Arncliffe more than a fortnight after the fight at a Firth Street cafe. He was charged with common assault. That arrest came after a 27-year-old man in late June was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company, assaulting police and resisting arrest. A Liberal Party spokesman in June said the organisation was cooperating with police. "The Liberal Party strongly condemns the kind of behaviour that is alleged to have occurred," he said at the time. Australia wants to know how it can get hugely profitable tech companies like Apple, Facebook and Google to pay more tax. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has called for submissions on a discussion paper to develop a "fairer and more sustainable tax system for the digitalised economy" to ensure a level playing field for businesses. "The government remains concerned that some very profitable, highly digitalised companies pay very little tax in the countries in which they do business," he said in a statement on Tuesday. Mr Frydenberg reaffirmed Australia's commitment to working with other nations through both the G20 and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, to crack down on multinational tax avoidance. The federal government has also written to Secretary-General of the OECD Angel Gurria, to offer assistance on developing an appropriate international tax system. Facebook, Google and other large tech companies make significant amounts of money in Australia but employ very few people and use complex legal arrangements in a bid to pay tax overseas. Submissions close November 30 via the Treasury website. Adelaide nurses will meet this week to discuss possible industrial action, as a stand-off over hospital emergency departments continues. The Nursing and Midwifery Federation says the system is under significant duress, and pleas to Health Minister Stephen Wade for an "urgent crisis circuit breaker" have gone unheeded. The federation and Ambulance Employees Association last week called for beds to be immediately reopened at the Repatriation General Hospital, but Mr Wade dismissed the idea as a "medium to longer-term solution". Federation state secretary Elizabeth Dabars said she will meet with nurses at the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Flinders Medical Centre and Lyell McEwin Hospital this week. "I'm going to be talking to members about the situation that's currently confronting them and the next steps from here," she said on Tuesday. Mr Wade said the government had been holding regular meetings with clinicians and their employee organisations since June, and sees this latest push as a "stocktake" of the current situation. "We've had some surge days recently in the context of a pattern over the last couple of months so I see this as an intensification of consultation that's already been going," he told reporters. Following a crisis meeting last week, the minister said the government would work on a number of measures, including opening transit wards at major hospitals to handle some incoming or outgoing patients. He also moved quickly to open 30 more beds across 12 country and metropolitan hospitals, which may be used immediately. On Tuesday, the government shifted focus to the state's troubled EPAS electronic record system, following the release last week of the preliminary findings of an expert panel review. A three-year extension has been approved for the off-site storage of patient records, after the panel ruled out continuing the rollout, and is now looking at scrapping or completely overhauling the system. The $10.9 million extension will mean more than two million paper patient records will continue to be stored at four off-site facilities and delivered to hospitals as required. A Victorian council has blocked a bid to store asbestos from an old power plant in an on-site dump. Latrobe City councillors unanimously voted against the plan, despite the asbestos cell being backed by the Environmental Protection Authority. The decision means up to 15,000 cubic metres of asbestos waste from the closed Morwell Power Station could be trucked to the other side of Melbourne, through the heart of the city, as early as December. More than 140,000 workers at the power station, which closed in 2014, were exposed to asbestos between the 1920s and 1980s. A group of scientists has written to the NSW premier over her government's plan to raise the Warragamba Dam wall which they claim will endanger two national parks and breach World Heritage List conventions. The government in September introduced draft legislation to parliament to extend the height of the Warragamba Dam wall by 14 metres which it says will prevent flooding during a major weather event. But, if the higher dam reaches 100 per cent capacity, water levels upstream would see new areas of bushland inundated for up to two weeks. The group of 20 scientists, park managers and former environment ministers - including Peter Garrett - accused the government of pandering to developers who are eyeing downstream flood plains. "It is evident that housing development of downstream flood plains is a key driving factor for the dam wall raising proposal," the letter released on Tuesday states. The group says the impact of temporarily flooding the heritage-listed Blue Mountains and Nattai national parks - where at least 25 threatened species live - would be irreversible. A decision by Queensland Rail bosses to give themselves bonuses before full services are restored on the commuter train network has been reversed by the state government. The government-owned company had approved financial handouts of up to 15 per cent for 384 senior managers, its annual report shows. But the payments were stopped on Tuesday night by Deputy Premier and Treasurer Jackie Trad, who said the move was inappropriate while the organisation was still working to recover from a major service failure. "I don't think it meets community expectations that senior executive should be paid bonuses ... when commuter services still haven't returned to the level they were before October 2016," Ms Trad told ABC Radio on Wednesday. Ms Trad said QR had made progress since that date when cascading rostering failures led to the cancellation of hundreds of services in one day. It is still working to fill holes in its roster and restore many of the cancelled services. However she said not enough had been done to justify the bonuses, with many recommendations of an inquiry yet to be rolled out. But the Liberal National Party opposition says Ms Trad and Transport Minister Mark Bailey had to sign off on QR's annual report before it was tabled in parliament last week. The report was one of 75 dumped by the government on Friday afternoon. Steve Minnikin, the party's transport spokesman, says they either knew about the bonuses or didn't read the report. "We now know we're in the second year of rail fail, it's absurd to consider any sort of bonus," Mr Minnikin told ABC Radio. "It just shows the transport minister and the deputy premier have their finger off the pulse." The report's author, Phillip Strachan, was appointed as chairman of the QR board by the Palaszczuk government after his inquiry into the organisation. QR is still having problems with its workforce, with train drivers and other workers taking excessive sick days in what's seen as an unofficial strike action in protest at the recent firing of staff. The Fair Work Commission last Friday ordered workers not to stop work during Riverfire celebrations in Brisbane last Saturday night. An Adelaide boy is in hospital with a potentially life-threatening case of meningococcal, just days after the state government announced free vaccines. SA's health department has spoken with a metropolitan childcare centre and recommended 64 people get antibiotics after the two-year-old contracted the disease. He remains in a serious condition in hospital and the strain of meningococcal it's not yet known, the department says. Two dozen cases of invasive meningococcal have been recorded in South Adelaide so far this year compared to 31 cases in the same period the previous year. It comes after the SA government's free meningococcal B vaccinations program for children aged between six months to under four years started on Monday. US President Donald Trump says he strongly backs Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, as the FBI probes accusations that a drunken Kavanaugh sexually abused women while in high school and university A one-time classmate of President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee said Monday that Brett Kavanaugh was a habitual heavy drinker, challenging the judge's Senate testimony to the contrary. The comments came days after the FBI opened a Senate-requested probe into allegations by three women that a drunken Kavanaugh sexually abused them or engaged in sexual misconduct while they were students in the 1980s. "I can unequivocally say that in denying the possibility that he ever blacked out from drinking and in downplaying the degree and frequency of his drinking, Brett has not told the truth," Chad Ludington told reporters. The North Carolina State University professor, who said he had contacted the FBI with his information, indicated in a statement Sunday that Kavanaugh was "belligerent and aggressive" when he drank. Earlier, Trump had defended his pick but admitted that the appeals court judge has had a "bit of difficulty" with alcohol. In a White House press conference, the US president sought to excuse excessive drinking by teenagers, while going beyond Kavanaugh's own testimony on his past use of alcohol to the Senate Judiciary Committee last week. "I was surprised at how vocal he was about the fact that he likes beer," the president said. "He's had a little bit of difficulty. He talked about things that happened when he drank. This is not a man that said... he was perfect with respect to alcohol." He also questioned why investigators needed to examine the 53-year-old Kavanaugh's high school record. "I think it's very unfair to bring up things like this," Trump said. "I graduated from high school and while I did not drink, I saw a lot of people drinking," he said. "They drink beer and go crazy and they were in high school... Does that mean that they can't do something they want to do in their life?" He returned to the theme during a campaign rally in Tennessee, where he accused opposition Democrats of being motivated by politics. "They have been blind in a blind rage ever since they lost the 2016. They have gone loco," he told supporters. - 'I like beer' - "Yes, we drank beer. I liked beer. I still like beer," Kavanaugh testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee last week amid allegations he was a heavy drinker in his teens In Thursday's extraordinary hearing, Kavanaugh vehemently denied the sexual abuse allegations, and also aggressively challenged suggestions he had a drinking problem at the time. "I drank beer with my friends. Sometimes I had too many beers," he told the panel. "Yes, we drank beer. I liked beer. I still like beer," he said. "If every American who drinks beer or every American who drank beer in high school is suddenly presumed guilty of sexual assault, it will be an ugly, new place in this country." Senator Edward John Markey (D-MA) addresses a rally of sexual assault survivors and supporters in Boston against Kavanaugh's nomination The New York Times also reported that Kavanaugh was questioned but not charged by police after a 1985 bar fight in New Haven, Connecticut where he was accused of throwing ice on a fellow patron. A witness said that a friend of Kavanaugh's then threw a glass that hit the same patron in the ear, causing bleeding. US media meanwhile reported that the FBI had begun their interview of Mark Judge, Kavanaugh's former best friend and a key figure in the misconduct allegations leveled by Christine Blasey Ford. Judge's interview started but "has not been completed," his attorney said in a statement quoted by Fox News. In last week's hearing, Blasey Ford said Judge witnessed Kavanaugh's alleged assault and jumped on top of them as it happened, sending all three tumbling and allowing her to escape. - Clock ticking - Protesters rally and cheer against Kavanaugh Trump meanwhile said the White House would not restrict the new FBI probe, requested by senators before they take a final vote on Kavanaugh. "I think the FBI should do what they have to do to get to the answer," Trump said. "I want it to be comprehensive... With that being said, I would like to go quickly," he added. "We don't want to go on a witch hunt, do we?" Senators, including Republican Jeff Flake, struck a deal Friday that gives the FBI one week to conduct its investigation and deliver its report. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the Senate, made up of 51 Republicans and 49 Democrats, will be "voting this week" on advancing the Kavanaugh nomination, setting up a possible final confirmation vote this weekend or early next week. "The time for endless delay and obstruction has come to a close," McConnell said. Last week, Flake expressed eagerness to see Kavanaugh confirmed but said he wanted a "better process" for assessing the allegations. Flake said over the weekend that he would vote for Kavanaugh unless the FBI finds something in its investigation. Abe said he wanted a 'powerful start' with the reshuffle Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Tuesday replaced his defence minister in a cabinet reshuffle that otherwise left key government positions largely unchanged. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, who was reappointed, announced the lineup for the new cabinet, with key ministers including finance minister Taro Aso and foreign minister Taro Kono staying on. "I conducted the cabinet reshuffle today in order to get off to a powerful start for the building of a new country," Abe told a televised news conference. "I want to maintain the framework of my government management in a stable manner," he said. But Itsunori Onodera, defence minister since August 2017, was replaced by Takeshi Iwaya, 61, a veteran politician who has had short stints in roles including vice minister for defence and foreign affairs. The reshuffle follows Abe's reelection as leader of his Liberal Democratic Party last month, which puts him on track to become Japan's longest-serving prime minister. "It was no surprise that Abe focused on stability rather than a challenge," said Tomoaki Iwai, professor of Japanese politics at Nihon University. "Abe prioritised imminent tasks such as a fight against deflation so that he can consolidate his power before tackling a revision of the constitution," Iwai told AFP. After winning a historic third term as LDP head last month, Abe vowed to press ahead with plans to revise Japan's pacifist constitution, which remains a controversial proposition. During the news conference, Abe voiced hopes to submit a plan to parliament later this year but vowed to seek "wide support" as his junior coalition partner Komeito has insisted there is no need to be hasty. Iwaya takes over as Japan continues to focus on the threat posed by North Korea despite easing tensions on the Korean peninsula and international negotiations on Pyongyang's denuclearisation. In an annual defence review released in August, the defence ministry said North Korea remained a "serious and imminent threat". Japan's 2018 defence white paper also took aim at China's rise as a military power, saying Beijing was sparking "strong security concerns in the region and international community, including Japan". Abe described Iwaya as "an expert on security." But Iwai said the new defence chief was something of an unknown quantity. "Iwaya is not a novice on defence but is also not as experienced as Onodera," he said. "His capability as defence chief remains unknown." Newcomers to Abe's cabinet include Satsuki Katayama, the new minister for promoting local economies, who will be the sole female member of the cabinet. Abe's previous cabinet had two female ministers. Delegates from 137 countries have gathered in Geneva to discuss the global tobacco control treaty but tobacco company representatives are barred from the meeting A meeting on a global tobacco control treaty opened in Geneva Monday, with organisers scrambling to keep cigarette companies at bay, even as the industry demanded a seat at the table. Two dramatically different views on the best way forward in reining in smoking were on display, with organisers and activists maintaining the tobacco companies had nothing to offer, and the industry insisting its new products are key to halting a smoking epidemic that causes some seven million deaths each year. "This is not a time to be complacent," Vera Luiza da Costa e Silva, who heads the secretariat of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), said as delegates from 137 countries gathered to discuss the treaty. "With astronomical budgets, the tobacco industry continues its furious efforts to undermine the implementation of our treaty" The eighth meeting of the parties to the convention since it took effect in 2005 is expected this week to focus heavily on efforts to limit influence by Big Tobacco on the proceedings. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the convention Monday as "one of the greatest public health achievements in the past 20 years". And the FCTC hailed "significant progress" in many of its 181 country parties in implementing the requirements of the treaty, including in creating smoke-free areas and banning advertising for tobacco products. - 'Industry interference' - But, it cautioned, "tobacco industry interference, combined with the emergence of new and novel tobacco products, continues to be considered the most serious barrier to the implementation of the Convention." The world's heaviest smoking nations In a bid to limit their influence, tobacco company representatives are barred from the conference, while delegates, observers and the media are asked to sign forms disclosing any connections to the tobacco industry. Yet AFP spoke with several tobacco company executives who said they accessed the public gallery Monday to observe the proceedings. The companies insist they should at least be allowed in the room. "This is not about influencing, this is about presenting our view," said Michiel Reerink, the vice president of regulatory strategy at Japan Tobacco International (JTI), and one of the industry executives who observed the public opening of Monday's meeting. "It is our industry and our products that are the subject of the debate." "We believe we should be part of the conversation," Moira Gilchrist, Philip Morris International (PMI)'s vice president of scientific and public communications, told reporters Monday. She was speaking at a Geneva hotel not far from the convention centre, where PMI has set up a stand to show off its portfolio of so-called harm-reduction products, including e-cigarettes and heated tobacco sticks, to delegates. PMI and other companies say such products are far less dangerous than traditional cigarettes, and insist they are key to helping move smokers unable to quit completely over to "safer" alternatives. They would like the FCTC and policymakers to embrace the new products, and are calling for less taxation and the right to promote them as less harmful than combustible cigarettes. Da Costa e Silva of the FCTC told AFP last month that, in light of the tobacco industry's history of lying about the health impact of their products, she did not trust their claims. "They said the same thing when they released filters for tobacco products, that this would be healthier products," she said. "You can't trust what the tobacco industry says." - 'Cynicism' - Activists also balk at the industry claims. "They're saying: we created this gigantic problem... and when you're hooked, we will sell you the solution," Francis Thompson, who heads the Framework Convention Alliance, told AFP. "There is a certain cynicism involved in that." John Stewart of Corporate Accountability also questioned the science behind the claims, stressing that "I haven't seen any evidence that was not funded by the tobacco industry." On the other side of the aisle, a group of 72 scientists and policy experts signed an open letter to Tedros Monday asking that WHO and FCTC "embrace tobacco harm reduction", insisting the new products "offer the prospect of significant and rapid public health gains." PMI chief executive Andre Calantzopoulos meanwhile likened the debate on nicotine to the one that raged decades ago around how to combat HIV. "At that time, one side argued for complete abstinence, while others took the more pragmatic approach that condoms were a more realistic and effective approach for the real world," he said in an email. The 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' (Clean India Mission) wants to end open defecation entirely by October 2 2019, birthday of India's independence hero and sanitation crusader Mahatma Gandhi Indian farmer Kokila Damor always looked forward to visiting the city hospital, but only so that she could use its toilet. Now she is not only a proud toilet owner but a sanitation champion for other villagers in the state of Rajasthan who have been used to defecating in the open since time immemorial. "Having a toilet has changed my life. I can sleep a bit more. Earlier I had to rush out at four in the morning," said Damor, a 34-year-old mother of three. "I would always look for an excuse to go to the hospital as I loved using a proper toilet with a door, water and lights," she said. Before, during autumn it would be a struggle to find a secluded spot amidst the bare trees, while in the rainy season her hands would hurt from holding an umbrella -- to say nothing of the fear of being spotted. The multi-billion dollar campaign combines raising awareness, providing subsidies for making latrines, and communal naming and shaming of those still relieving themselves in the open But Bhuwalia, her village, is one of the success stories of a public health drive launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi -- host of a sanitation summit in Delhi this week -- on taking office in 2014. The houses in Bhuwalia now boast toilets with twin-pit technology that requires no sewerage, and a sloped pan design that minimises water usage in the drought-prone region. - 86 million toilets - Diseases caused by poor sanitation and unsafe water kill some 1.4 million children every year worldwide, more than measles, malaria and AIDS combined. Under Modi's scheme, tribal households get 15,000 rupees ($205) each for building latrines, a boon for someone like Damor whose monthly family income is less than 10,000 rupees. The Indian government says it has built more than 86 million toilets across the country of 1.25 billion people since October 2014. It also says it has slashed the number of people forced to go to the loo in the open from 550 million in 2014 to fewer than 150 million today. The "Swachh Bharat Abhiyan" (Clean India Mission) is aimed at ending open defecation entirely by October 2 2019, birthday of India's independence hero and sanitation crusader Mahatma Gandhi. The multi-billion dollar campaign combines raising awareness, providing subsidies for making latrines, and communal naming and shaming of those still relieving themselves in the open. - 'Good-morning squads' - UNICEF, one of the many global organisations that has been supporting the Indian mission, has embarked on a mass awareness campaign in the remotest corners to insist "poo must go to the loo". "We actually showed them how the flies sitting on stool were then sitting on their water and food," said Rushabh Hemani, who works for UNICEF in Rajasthan. "When they learnt how the flies were spreading diseases, they realised the need for covered toilets." There were other challenges too. There were no approach roads to many villages in Dungarpur district, which meant transporting construction material for toilets was a Herculean task. The villagers, led by Laxman Damor -- a former soldier and Kokila's father-in-law -- then did what they knew best. They started building the road by themselves, using hoes, pickaxes and other basic tools. "Once the road was built, we used camels to bring up sacks of cement and tiles," said Laxman as he stood outside his toilet, the door scribbled with a slogan promoting hygiene. - Store room - But an Indian parliamentary report released in March red-flagged concerns over the rush to build toilets without making sure they were being used for the right purpose. Often villagers construct a toilet but end up using it as a store room. In order to motivate people to use the toilet, teams of government employees and volunteers roam villages to publicly shame those who relieve themselves in the open. Armed with torches and whistles, the so-called "good-morning squads" try to catch offenders red-handed during their early morning patrols. "We mean no harm. This is the only way," said Kokila Damor, who revels in the unusual task. "It's only through fear that you can stop people from defecating outdoors." Singaporean writer and director Yeo Siew Hua, whose film 'A Land Imagined' is shedding light on a less well-known side of the city state -- the precarious existence of its migrant workers A world away from the opulence showcased in hit rom-com "Crazy Rich Asians", a critically acclaimed film noir is shedding light on a less well-known side of Singapore -- the precarious existence of its migrant workers. "A Land Imagined" tells the story of a Chinese labourer who goes missing while working on a building site, and the efforts of a world-weary detective to track him down. His lonely life serves as a window into the world of the approximately 280,000 foreign workers who toil to build the affluent city-state's glittering skyscrapers and ubiquitous residential high-rises. The movie debuted in August at the Locarno Festival, where it won the top prize, and features atmospheric scenes of bleak construction sites, drab workers' dormitories, and rain-lashed, neon-lit streets. Singaporean director Yeo Siew Hua said the film aimed to raise awareness about the lives of migrant labourers who have flocked to the wealthy city from poorer parts of Asia and are often regarded as "outsiders". "When we talk about the migrant workforce in Singapore, there is a certain blindness, especially in mainstream society," Yeo told AFP. "The film tries to show them as humans, as people with hopes and dreams." - Contrasting depictions - It had its debut around the same time as the US release of Hollywood film "Crazy Rich Asians", which was a box-office hit and won plaudits for its Asian-majority cast -- but its depiction of the city-state could not be more different. Peter Yu plays a world-weary detective trying to track down a missing Chinese labourer in critically acclaimed 'A Land Imagined' The rom-com, about an American-Chinese economics professor and her Singapore boyfriend, focuses on the ultra-wealthy ethnic Chinese elite and features well-known sights, such as the impressive waterfront skyline. "A Land Imagined" follows the life of Wang Bi Cheng from China, who works for a land-reclamation company -- about a quarter of Singapore sits on reclaimed land. This is a long-running source of controversy as sand is imported for reclamation from other parts of Asia, a practice that green groups say causes environmental damage in the supplying countries. He lives in a shared dormitory next to a busy road and spends his nights playing computer games in a cybercafe -- befriending the sassy woman who works there -- and hangs out with a Bangladeshi labourer who is struggling with debts. When Wang goes missing, police send in a jaded detective, Lok, who is shocked when he encounters the migrants' living conditions. NGOs working with foreign labourers in the city-state of 5.6 million welcomed the film for drawing attention to their lives. The movie debuted in August at the Locarno Festival, where it won the top prize, and features atmospheric scenes of bleak construction sites, drab workers' dormitories, and rain-lashed, neon-lit streets Stephanie Chok, advocacy and communications manager from campaign group Home, said challenges for foreign labourers range from poor living conditions to long working hours and unscrupulous employers withholding wages or underpaying them. Depictions of workers' lives in the film ring true, such as huge, self-contained dormitory complexes in less desirable parts of Singapore and employers holding on to workers' passports to prevent them from leaving, she said. - Huge debts - Wang's Bangladeshi friend, Ajit, is unable to leave Singapore due to debts -- a common problem for foreign labourers, who often take out loans for fees to secure work and are unable to pay them back due to low salaries, according to rights groups. Singapore's Ministry of Manpower, however, insists that surveys it has commissioned show the vast majority of foreign workers are satisfied with working in the city and consider it "an attractive destination country". Singaporean director Yeo Siew Hua says the film aims to raise awareness about the lives of migrant labourers who have flocked to the wealthy city from poorer parts of Asia and are often regarded as 'outsiders' The ministry has a "comprehensive regulatory framework to ensure that foreign workers in Singapore are properly managed, and that their wellbeing is not compromised", a spokesman said in a statement. It said workers were protected by laws in areas including payment of salaries, compensation for work injuries and ensuring they have accommodation of a decent standard. After its success at Locarno, the film is heading to other festivals, including Hamburg and Vancouver, and will have a commercial release in Singapore at the end of the year. Those fighting for a better lot for foreign labourers praised the effort to draw greater attention to their difficulties. "When we tell Singaporeans about the issues that the migrant workers face, they say 'no, no, Singapore is a country where we have very good laws, and these things cannot be happening'," Ethan Guo, from NGO Transient Workers Count Too, told AFP. "I think general awareness of the plight that these migrant workers go through is what we feel is needed more in Singapore." A landmark summit between North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump in June led to a warming of ties, but there has been little concrete progress toward denuclearisation North Korea on Tuesday ruled out dismantling its nuclear arsenal in exchange for the US declaring an end to the Korean War, saying a peace treaty should "never be a bargaining chip." The North has for decades demanded that the US formally declare the end of the 1950-53 conflict that was halted only with an armistice, saying an official end to the war would ease tensions on the flashpoint peninsula. At a summit with the South's President Moon Jae-in last month, the North's leader Kim Jong Un offered to shut down its main Yongbyon nuclear complex if Washington takes "corresponding measures". Kim did not elaborate on what those measure might be, but state news agency KCNA said in a commentary that some US experts have suggested trading the end of the war for denuclearisation. It flatly described that as only the "most basic... process" to restore ties, not a point for negotiation. "The end of war... is not just a gift from a man to another at all. Furthermore, it can never be a bargaining chip for getting the DPRK denuclearised," it said, using the North's full name. KCNA said that Pyongyang was willing to take "such... steps as eternal dismantlement" of its nuclear complex "if the US takes a corresponding measure" but again did not elaborate. Cho Sung-ryul, analyst at the Institute of National Security Strategy, said the commentary may be aimed at limiting Washington's room for manoeuvre. "The North is trying to reduce the negotiating value of Washington's potential offer of a peace treaty, by suggesting that 'it's not good enough to make us denuclearise'," he told South Korea's news agency Yonhap. A landmark summit between Kim and US President Donald Trump in June led to a warming of ties, but there has been little concrete progress toward denuclearisation. The North's foreign minister Ri Yong Ho also told the UN last month that there was "no way" his country would disarm first as long as the US pushes for tough enforcement of sanctions against Pyongyang. Trump however lauded Kim, saying last week the pair had fallen "in love" -- their bromance fuelled by "beautiful letters" he recently received from the young leader. The ceasefire that halted the bloody conflict that sealed the division of the Korean peninsula was signed by the North, its military ally China and the US -- which fought on the side of the South. The South did not take part as its then-leader refused to end the war unless the whole peninsula was unified. Some 200 police were involved in the raids in Grande Synthe About 200 police raided the headquarters in northern France of a Shiite Islamic association and the homes of its leaders who are suspected of supporting "terrorist organisations", security sources said. The operation against the Zahra Centre France in Grande Synthe, a suburb of the port city of Dunkirk, was staged as part of the "prevention of terrorism" procedures, regional authorities said in a statement. A security source told AFP that 11 people had been arrested, while French authorities also froze the financial assets of the centre which is headed by Yahia Gouasmi, who is known for his anti-Zionist views and links to Iran. French authorities also froze the financial assets of the Zahar Centre Police have been closely following the activities of the Zahra Centre "because of the strong support by its leaders for several terrorist organisations and in favour of movements backing ideas that are contrary to the values" of France. On its website, the association says its purpose since its foundation in 2009 has been "to make known the message of Islam through the eyes of the Prophet and his family." It was unclear whether the arrests were linked to a suspected plot in France to bomb a gathering of Iranian opposition group the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) in June. Police swooped on six people in Belgium, France and Germany after authorities revealed the alleged plot, including an Iranian diplomat. France is still on high alert after a wave of Islamist attacks since 2015 in which 246 people have lost their lives. Elections are due in India next year and ahead of previous votes, unions representing farmers and other groups have staged protests in an effort to secure sweeteners in exchange for support at the ballot box. Clashes broke out on the outskirts of Delhi on Tuesday as police used water cannon and tear gas to stop thousands of protesting farmers entering the Indian capital, with at least one person reportedly injured. The farmers, reeling from high fuel prices, were pressing for government help including higher support prices for agricultural goods, free electricity for their farms and waivers on loans ahead of elections due in 2019. Marching from adjoining northern states, the farmers blocked one of the highways into Delhi and used tractors to try and break through a police barrier, television pictures showed. Some reportedly threw stones at police. Elections are due in India next year and ahead of previous votes, unions representing farmers and other groups have staged protests in an effort to secure sweeteners in exchange for support at the ballot box. The farmers demonstrating on Tuesday were mostly from Uttar Pradesh (UP), India's most populous state with more than 200 million people and its most electorally important. The protestors reached the Delhi outer limits on foot, in buses and on tractor trailers under the banner of Bhartiya Kisan Union (Indian Farmers Union), a farmers group critical of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. Modi and his right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) routed all opposition parties in UP in the last elections. He remains personally popular according to several surveys, but after four years in power support for his party has been eroded by voter concerns about jobs and the spike in fuel prices. No caption For Imad and his sister Alia, life will never be the same after their father was killed by a landmine and they had to leave their endangered home in Yemen's western Hodeida province. With their house surrounded by the deadly munitions, the two children and their mother, left Al-Dunain village and headed for shelter at the Al-Waara camp in the Khokha district, some 30 kilometres (18 miles) from the town of Hays. Withdrawing Iran-backed Huthi rebels had dotted the area with mines, their mother Fethiyeh Fartout said. And it was while her husband made his way to market that he was killed on a road "riddled with landmines". "The Huthis then told us to either leave the house or risk being killed," she told AFP. No caption The family is just one of millions caught up in a dragging war in which Huthi rebels have been fighting for more than three years against the Yemeni government, which is backed by a Saudi-led military coalition. Rights groups say both sides have committed potential war crimes in the conflict which has killed an estimated 10,000 people, mostly civilians. While the Saudi-led coalition has come under fire for air raids that have killed civilians, including children, in rebel-held areas, the Huthis have been accused of widespread and indiscriminate use of landmines. - 'Long-term threat' - Yemen is a signatory to the international Mine Ban Treaty, which came into force in 1999, and aims to eliminate landmines and clear up vast tracts of polluted land. No caption And indiscriminate use of landmines is deemed a war crime by international bodies. While the Huthi rebels have made no media comments about landmines, in a letter to Human Rights Watch (HRW) in 2017 the rebel-controlled foreign ministry in Sanaa denied using landmines or having stockpiles, adding they were "vigilant in abiding by commitments" under the treaty. But for Fartout and her children there is no way to return home, even if they tried, said her father Jamal Fartout. "The Huthis planted landmines everywhere, and their explosives destroyed the roads," he told AFP. "All the roads leading back to our home are lined with explosives." HRW said in June that landmines in Yemen were hindering aid access and entrapping people. "Huthi forces have repeatedly laid antipersonnel, anti-vehicle and improvised mines as they withdrew from areas in Aden, Taez, Marib and, more recently, along Yemen's western coast," the HRW said. Landmines "will pose a threat to civilians long after the conflict ends," it warned. In July, the Washington Institute said that, while landmines have plagued Yemen for decades amid different conflicts, the Huthis are using them today "at an astonishingly high rate." No caption While exact numbers are "notoriously difficult to verify", the institute said one "Yemeni de-mining official claims the Huthis have laid 500,000 mines since 2015" while de-mining teams "have reportedly removed 300,000 landmines". The non-governmental Landmine and Cluster Munition Monitor recorded more than 2,100 casualties in Yemen from landmines in 2016. - "Where can we go" - "I asked the Huthis, 'where can we go when the breadwinner of the family was killed by a landmine?'," Fartout said. No caption Hundreds of people now live in make-shift tents in Al-Waara -- partly funded by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a key player in the Saudi-led coalition. While dozens of children, some barefoot, run around the camp, one boy sits in a wheelchair -- his leg in a cast. He, too, was a victim of a landmine. According to the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), sustained fighting in Hays has killed civilians, destroyed infrastructure and driven mass displacement for more than 10 months. By March 2018, an estimated 12,000 people had been displaced from the districts of Hays and Al-Jarahi, some 25 kilometres from Hays. In June, Saudi Arabia launched a new project for landmine clearance in Yemen, but "landmines will remain a formidable challenge in the postwar era," the Washington Institute added. - Facing famine - The Saudi-led coalition, which intervened in the war in 2015 to bolster Yemeni President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, accuses Iran of arming the Huthis with explosives and missiles. Since 2015, some 10,000 people -- mostly civilians -- have been killed, but humanitarian officials say the real figures are likely much higher. Yemen has long been the Arab world's most impoverished country. With millions facing starvation, the Fartout family are now among the 22 million people -- three quarters of the population -- in need of food aid. Risk of famine in Yemen The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) delivers food and aid to the Al-Waara camp approximately every three weeks, said Saeed al-Kaabi, director of UAE's humanitarian operations in Yemen. Each tent receives a package of food, including rice, pasta, beans, tuna, salt and sugar, he said. But the United Nations has warned aid agencies are losing the fight against famine and some 3.5 million people may soon be added the eight million Yemenis already facing starvation. Melania Trump flew from Washington to Ghana to start an African tour Melania Trump on Tuesday arrived in Ghana on the first leg of her maiden, solo tour of Africa that has been billed as a chance to carve her own diplomatic path. The US first lady stepped off an overnight flight from Andrews Airforce Base near Washington and onto a red carpet at Accra's Kotoka International Airport. She was met by her Ghanaian counterpart Rebecca Akufo-Addo and a group of local schoolchildren in yellow and brown uniforms waving the US stars and stripes and the Ghanaian flag. An AFP reporter at the airport said the former model was smiling and looked relaxed as she was entertained by a troupe of traditional drummers and dancers. The first lady's office has said the tour will be a "diplomatic and humanitarian visit" that will focus on her #BeBest campaign for "children and their well-being". It will also "showcase" the work of the US Agency for International Development (USAID), even at a time when her husband's government is looking to slash US aid across the world. In addition to Ghana, she is due to visit Malawi, Kenya and Egypt before returning to Washington early on October 7. Security is one of the main challenges ahead of Afghanistan's legislative vote At least 13 people were killed in a suicide attack on an Afghan election campaign rally on Tuesday, officials said, in the latest violence ahead of this month's legislative vote. The attack is the first suicide assault since campaigning officially kicked off last Friday for the parliamentary elections, preparations for which have already been marred by bloody violence. More than 40 people were wounded when the militant blew himself up among supporters of candidate Abdul Nasir Mohmmand in the Kama district of the eastern province of Nangarhar, provincial governor spokesman Ataullah Khogyani said. Mohmmand was alive, Khogyani confirmed, but he did not say if the candidate had been hurt in the blast. Provincial health director Najibullah Kamawal put the death toll slightly higher at 14. Some of the wounded were in a critical condition, he said. An AFP reporter saw numerous ambulances delivering bodies and wounded people to a hospital in the provincial capital of Jalalabad. Sayed Humayun, who had brought his injured cousin to the medical facility, said scores of people had been inside a hall listening to Mohmmand speak when the bomber struck. "I heard a big explosion," Humayun told AFP. "For a while I could not see, I thought I was blinded, but later I saw I was surrounded by bodies and people covered in blood." The force of the blast caused the ceiling to collapse on top of the gathering. "There are still people trapped under the rubble," Malik Zeerak, who was at the rally, told AFP. No group immediately claimed the attack, but the Islamic State group has taken responsibility for most of the suicide bombings in recent months. - Bloody preparations - Violence has plagued the run-up to Afghanistan's long-delayed parliamentary vote, which is scheduled for October 20. Five candidates have been murdered in targeted killings, according to the Independent Election Commission, and there are fears violence will escalate. There were also numerous attacks on voter registration centres, including a suicide blast at a centre in Kabul that killed dozens. The latest attack comes amid predictions for Afghan battle deaths to top 20,000 this year -- including civilians and combatants. That would be the highest number since the start of the conflict in 2001 and make Afghanistan deadlier than Syria. More than 2,500 candidates will contest the vote, which is seen as a test run for next year's presidential election. But preparations have been in turmoil for months. Bureaucratic inefficiency, allegations of industrial-scale fraud and an eleventh-hour pledge for biometric verification of voters threaten to derail the election and any hope of a credible result. The international community is pushing hard for the vote to happen before November's ministerial meeting in Geneva, which the United Nations says is a "crucial moment" for the Afghan government and its foreign partners to demonstrate progress. Some 54,000 members of Afghanistan's beleaguered security forces will be responsible for protecting more than 5,000 polling centres on election day. More than 2,000 polling centres that were supposed to open will be closed for security reasons. It is a daunting task as the Taliban and IS, which have vowed to disrupt the ballot, ramp up attacks across the country. Arthur Ashkin of the US split the 2018 Nobel Physics Prize with Gerard Mourou of France and Donna Strickland of Canada Three scientists on Tuesday won the Nobel Physics Prize for inventing optical lasers that have paved the way for advanced precision instruments used in corrective eye surgery and in industry, the jury said. Arthur Ashkin of the United States won one half of the nine million Swedish kronor (about $1.01 million or 870,000 euros) prize, while Gerard Mourou of France and Donna Strickland of Canada shared the other half. Ashkin, 96, was honoured for his invention of "optical tweezers" that grab particles, atoms, viruses and other living cells with their laser beam fingers. With this he was able to use the radiation pressure of light to move physical objects, "an old dream of science fiction," the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said. A major breakthrough came in 1987 when Ashkin used the tweezers to capture living bacteria without harming them, the Academy noted. Ashkin, who made his discovery while working at AT&T Bell Laboratories from 1952 to 1991, is the oldest winner of a Nobel prize, beating out American Leonid Hurwicz who was 90 when he won the 2007 Economics Prize. Meanwhile Mourou, 74, and Strickland -- only the third woman to win the Physics Prize -- won for helping develop a method to generate ultra-short optical pulses, "the shortest and most intense laser pulses ever created by mankind," the jury said. Their technique is now used in corrective eye surgery. Mourou was affiliated with the Ecole Polytechnique of France and the University of Michigan in the US, while Strickland, his student, is a professor at the University of Waterloo in Canada. - Women are 'out there' - The winners of the Nobel Prize for Physics since 2012 Speaking by phone to the academy, a moved Strickland said she was thrilled to receive the Nobel prize that has been the least accessible for women. "We need to celebrate women physicists because they're out there... I'm honoured to be one of those women." Before her, only Marie Curie and Maria Goeppert Mayer had won the physics prize, in 1903 and 1963 respectively. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has in the past lamented the small number of women laureates in the science fields in general. It has insisted that it is not due to male chauvinism bias on the award committees, instead attributing it to the fact that laboratory doors were closed to women for so long. "It's a small percentage for sure, that's why we are taking measures to encourage more nominations because we don't want to miss anyone," the head of the Academy, Goran Hansson, said on Tuesday. Last year, US astrophysicists Barry Barish, Kip Thorne and Rainer Weiss won the physics prize for the discovery of gravitational waves, predicted by Albert Einstein a century ago as part of his theory of general relativity. On Monday, two immunologists, James Allison of the US and Tasuku Honjo of Japan, won this year's Nobel Medicine Prize for research into how the body's natural defences can fight cancer. The winners of the chemistry prize will be announced on Wednesday, followed by the peace prize on Friday. The economics prize will wrap up the Nobel season on Monday, October 8. For the first time since 1949, the Swedish Academy has postponed the announcement of the 2018 Nobel Literature Prize until next year, amid a #MeToo scandal and bitter internal dispute that has prevented it from functioning properly. US pastor Andrew Craig Brunson is currently under house arrest in the western city of Izmir A lawyer for the US pastor whose detention in Turkey sparked a crisis with Washington will appeal Wednesday to the constitutional court for his release. The move comes ahead of an October 12 hearing in the Andrew Brunson case and amid growing expectations he will be allowed to return home. Since July, Brunson has been under house arrest at his home in the western city of Izmir. Previously, he had been held in jail after being detained in October 2016. His lawyer, Cem Halavurt, told AFP they would lodge the appeal in Ankara at 0700 GMT Wednesday. Brunson, an evangelical who runs a small evangelical Protestant church in Izmir, is the centre of a bitter standoff between the Turkey and the United States. Washington imposed sanctions on Turkey over the summer and Ankara imposed sanctions of its own, leading to an escalation that prompted a crash in value of the Turkish lira. The Turkish authorities detained Brunson on allegations of assisting groups branded as terrorist, part of a crackdown by the Turkish government following the failed coup in 2016. But there have been signs the standoff could be easing. Last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo expressed his hope Turkey would release the pastor. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Monday Ankara hoped to rebuild relations with Washington, while adding that the pastor was on trial for his "murky relations with terror groups". The easing of tension has helped the Turkish lira recover from historic lows in recent weeks. Abdulkadir Selvi, a pro-government columnist for the Hurriyet daily, wrote Monday that the court on October 12 might rule to lift Brunson's house arrest and travel ban, allowing him to return home. Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Al-Moualem addresses the General Assembly at the United Nations in New York on September 28, 2018 Syria's foreign minister said a deal to create a demilitarised zone in a northwestern rebel stronghold was a step towards "liberating" the territory, in comments aired Tuesday. "We have expressed the hope that the Russian-Turkish agreement is a step towards the liberation of Idlib," Walid Muallem said in an interview with the Lebanese Al-Mayadeen channel. On September 17, regime ally Moscow agreed with Ankara to create a buffer area ringing Idlib in a bid to avert a massive government blitz on the northwestern opposition bastion. The area would be free of both jihadists and heavy arms by mid-October. The deal has so far averted a massive assault on the region by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government, but its implementation is expected to be complex. Pro-Turkey rebels have cautiously accepted the deal, but some have rejected it, saying the zone would only encompass territory currently under rebel control and objecting to the presence of Russian military police. The dominant force in the region bordering Turkey, the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) alliance led by jihadists of Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, had on Saturday still not responded. Muallem said he was confident in Turkey's ability to fulfil its side of the deal "because of its knowledge of factions" on the ground. He said fighters from the area would be allowed to stay, while those from other areas would go home and foreigners would leave through Turkey. Damascus has repeatedly accused its northern neighbour of backing "terrorists" and facilitating their passage into Syria. But Muallem said it would be "necessary in the future to normalise relations" between the two countries -- providing Turkey withdrew its troops from Syria. Libya's ancient city of Sabratha, on the Mediterranean coast, is an awe-inspiring sight but it has been classed as "endangered" by UNESCO Perched on the edge of Libya's Mediterranean coast, the ancient city of Sabratha remains an awe-inspiring spectacle, the pink columns of its amphitheatre towering above turquoise waters. But the world heritage site is classed as "endangered" by UNESCO, its majestic structures pockmarked by mortar and small arms fire. Shell casings and bullets still litter the surrounding earth, a year after clashes between rival armed groups. Locals say snipers positioned themselves at the top of the amphitheatre, once a jewel of the Roman Empire. Bringing bloodshed back to the gladiatorial arena some 18 centuries after it was built, 39 people were killed and 300 wounded in the fighting. Today, the site around 70 kilometres (45 miles) from the capital lies eerily abandoned, encircled by parched grass and weeds. The majestic structures of Sabratha are pockmarked by mortar and small arms fire Since the toppling and killing of Libya's dictator Moamer Kadhafi in a 2011 uprising, Sabratha has become a key departure point for illegal migration. Smugglers and militias have profited amply from a chronic security vacuum. It is from the long and deserted shores a few kilometres (miles) from ancient Sabratha that most migrants start their perilous boat journeys towards Europe. - 'Permanent danger' - UNESCO declared Sabratha to be at risk in July 2016, along with four other Libyan sites on its World Heritage list. The UN's cultural organisation based its decision on two factors -- "damage already caused" and vulnerability to future destruction. Once a jewel of the Roman Empire, locals say snipers positioned themselves at the top of the amphitheatre in Sabratha in clashes between rival armed groups a year ago It noted that "armed groups are present on these sites or in their immediate proximity". Experts fear worse is to come for the country's historic sites, as armed groups continue to vie for ascendancy. Libya's archaeological heritage is at great risk, warns Mohamad al-Chakchouki, head of the North African country's department of antiquities. The "entrenchment of armed groups inside archaeological sites and the battles which have unfolded near the sites, including Sabratha, pose a permanent danger", he told AFP. The conservation of sites was once entrusted to Western teams. But these experts have not travelled to Libya "for four years, because of the chaos and insecurity", said Chakchouki. Spread out over 90 hectares (220 acres), including a part engulfed by the sea, Sabratha is one of three former cities that constituted Roman Tripolitania. Since the toppling and killing of Libya's dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011, Sabratha has become a key departure point for illegal migration The others are Oea -- modern-day Tripoli -- and Leptis Magna in western Libya that was one of the sites classed as endangered by UNESCO two years ago. At the mercy of the scorching summer sun and the salty sea breeze, Sabratha suffers from stone erosion and degradation, said Mohamad Abu Ajela, an official at the city's office of antiquities. But the "damage caused by man is a greater fear", he said. A Spanish archaeological mission recently visited Sabratha and signed an agreement to restore some areas, including the theatre. But completion of the work "depends on the security situation", Ajela said. - Urbanisation and looting - Alongside armed conflict, several protected Libyan sites are threatened by uncontrolled urban expansion. Experts fear worse is to come for Libya's archaeological heritage, as armed groups continue to vie for ascendancy One example is Cyrene, an ancient Greek city in northeastern Libya. Exploiting the chaos, people have claimed ownership of land and built within the archaeological site's perimeter. Looting is another threat to these sites, as the lack of security has led to illicit excavation and smuggling of antiquities. Several thefts of ancient objects have been reported. In March, Spain's interior ministry announced the seizure "of numerous works of art" from the Cyrenaica and Tripolitania regions, including seven mosaics, sarcophagi and pieces of Egyptian origin. Madrid said it had proof that two necropolises were looted by "terrorist groups". Officials in the antiquities department attempt to save what they can, often through desperate measures. Museums have closed -- including in Tripoli -- and some archaeological treasures have been transferred to a "safe place", Chakchouki said. After Swaziland changed its name earlier this year to eSwatini, the nine letters spelling out the old name of the country were removed from the university sign, and new letters have not yet arrived At the main campus entrance, a large concrete sign welcomes students and visitors to "The University of..." followed by a blank space. After Swaziland changed its name earlier this year to eSwatini, the nine letters spelling out the old name of the country were removed from the university sign, and new letters have not yet arrived. "We are still waiting," said a security guard at the gate. On the other side of the road, Banele Syabonga, 25, contemplated his country's sudden change of name in April, which took many citizens by surprise. "I like the new name -- it is more African," Syabonga, who is unemployed, told AFP, standing outside Lucky's Hair Cut shop, a tin shack in Manzini, the second city of what is now known as eSwatini. "Swaziland was the British name. Now we have our own," he said, addressing one of the contentious debates about the new title. In April, King Mswati III -- one of the world's last absolute rulers -- marked 50 years since his country's independence from British colonial rule by announcing that it would now be known as eSwatini ("land of the Swazis"). The monarch's decision, taken without warning or consultation, revealed much about his autocratic rule and his country's history -- as well as posing a logistical challenge as the name change came into immediate effect. Thulani Maseko, an activist and lawyer, is challenging the name change in court Six weeks after the king's pronouncement, the country's representative informed the United Nations headquarters in New York, and the UN soon adopted the new nomenclature. Regional bodies, including the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), have also quickly changed to eSwatini -- though they sometimes swap between names in the same statement. The adjustment has taken some getting used to inside eSwatini, a landlocked nation of just 1.3 million residents between South Africa and Mozambique. Senior Swazi officials speaking to AFP during a visit last week repeatedly had to stop and correct themselves mid-sentence. It is "Swaziland" on the banknotes, but the central bank now uses "eSwatini", while police stations are gradually changing their signs. - 'Name is your identity' - Unlike many countries, such as Zimbabwe -- called Southern Rhodesia under British rule -- Swaziland did not change its name when it became independent in 1968. "African countries on getting independence reverted to their ancient names before they were colonised," the king said when he announced the change, having previously complained that Swaziland was often confused with Switzerland. King Mswati III, one of the world's last absolute rulers But the king's claim that eSwatini was Swaziland's old "authentic" name is fiercely disputed. "There is disagreement over the pre-colonial name -- many say it was actually 'Ngwane'," Thulani Maseko, an activist and lawyer who is challenging the name change in court, told AFP in the capital Mbabane. Ngwane was an ancient name for the Swazi people who settled in the south of the country under King Ngwane III, who ruled in the 18th century. Swaziland takes its name from King Mswati II, who ruled between 1840 and 1868. The area came under joint British and Boer rule in 1894 before becoming a British territory in 1907. "The name of your country is your identity, so it should not be changed by just one person issuing a royal command," Maseko said. The country held elections last month in a vote that was dismissed as a farce by critics because the constitution grants the king complete control over parliament and all branches of the state "It tells you that the king does not consult with the people when he makes fundamental decisions." Maseko spent 15 months in jail in 2014-15 for contempt of court after writing about lack of judicial independence, and he accepts that his legal battle over his country's name faces tough odds. But he wants to take a stand against the king's all-encompassing authority. The country held elections last month in a vote that was dismissed as a farce by critics because the constitution grants the king complete control over parliament and all branches of the state. The country is impoverished -- in sharp contrast to the king's lavish lifestyle -- and the name change is estimated to cost the government up to $6 million. Percy Simelane, the government spokesman, declined to comment to AFP, saying the court case made the matter sub-judice. Unlike many countries, such as Zimbabwe -- called Southern Rhodesia under British rule -- Swaziland did not change its name when it became independent in 1968 The name "eSwatini" did not come out of the blue. It is used in the local siSwati language and has appeared for years as the country's sub-title on national passports. But for souvenir seller Thoko Nkambule, 50, it has been an unwelcome disruption to business. She offers beaded necklaces, leather bracelets and carved wooden fridge magnets all skillfully spelling out "Swaziland" or now increasingly "eSwatini". "We are changing step by step," she said. "Some buyers want the old name, some want the new name. Personally, I prefer the old one." US President Donald Trump and Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani faced off at the UN in September. Tehran has hailed a ruling by the UN's top court ordering Washington to suspend sanctions on humanitarian goods, as a "clear sign" it is "in the right" Tehran welcomed on Wednesday a ruling by the UN's top court ordering Washington to suspend sanctions on humanitarian goods, as a "clear sign" that "Iran is in the right". The ruling by the International Court of Justice "once again shows that the US government... is day by day becoming more isolated," the foreign ministry said in a statement. It said the court had found that the crippling sanctions reimposed by Washington after it abandoned a landmark 2015 nuclear deal between major powers and Tehran were illegal. "World public opinion and all independent countries will, with peace of mind, strive... to keep and carry out the JCPOA," it added, using the official acronym for the agreement. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif called the court ruling "another failure for sanctions-addicted US government and victory for rule of law". "Imperative for int'l community to collectively counter malign US unilateralism," he added in a tweet. Nguyen Phu Trong will become the first person to hold the top posts of president and party leader simultaneously since Ho Chi Minh Vietnam Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong was nominated Wednesday to become the country's president, effectively making him the most powerful person in a country where consensus leadership has traditionally kept strongman rule in check. The two top posts have not been occupied by the same person in decades and will allow Trong, a conservative, long-serving communist apparatchik, to plough ahead with twin campaigns against corruption and dissent that he is is seen as spearheading. Trong was the only candidate nominated for president, and the role is expected to be approved by the rubber stamp parliament which will meet for a month-long session on October 22. "The Party Central Committee unanimously agreed on nominating Nguyen Phu Trong to the post of President," the party said on its website. Trong will replace Tran Dai Quang, who died after a long illness last month at age 61 after serving as president for two years. Though the role of president is largely ceremonial, Trong's election to the post will officially make him head-of-state in addition to remaining head of the party. He will occupy two of the top spots in the so-called four "pillars" at the head of the country, which also includes Prime Minister and head of the National Assembly. Trong will become the first person to hold the top posts of president and party leader simultaneously since Ho Chi Minh, the country's independence leader and Communist Party founder, did so in the 1960s. Born in Hanoi in 1944, Trong has a carefully guarded reputation as a committed communist stalwart who has tactfully avoided public scandal, and became the first-ever Vietnamese communist party leader to visit the United States, meeting former US President Barack Obama at the White House in 2015. The hardline leader has long been seen as shoring up power in his role as general secretary and party politics have taken a conservative turn since he was re-elected as party secretary in 2016. - War on corruption - With Trong already wielding a great deal of influence, analysts said the move is not likely to dramatically shake politics up in the one-party state. "Trong for some time has had his way and this decision is more a reflection of the power that he has already amassed rather than necessarily a turning point," Vietnam expert Jonathon London told AFP. But the move eliminates potential opposition, London said, as Trong presses ahead with his war against corruption in one of Asia's most graft prone countries. Scores of executives, bankers and top officials have been put behind bars as part of the campaign, seen in part as a genuine effort to clean government ranks. But observers say its also aimed at eliminating political foes. Trong has vowed to forge ahead with the anti-graft drive at any cost. "This is a very complicated and difficult fight, it has to be long-term and continuous... we have to be patient," he said at an anti-corruption meeting in August. Rights groups have also accused his conservative government of waging a brutal crackdown on dissidents, with at least 100 behind bars, according to Amnesty International. His new dual role is not likely to ruffle feathers among the Vietnamese public, most of whom feel little connection to the communist party, but some said his heightened power could make for a more effective government. "Trong will be the most powerful man in Vietnam's history, after Ho Chi Minh and former party leader Le Duan," political law expert Tran Vu Hai told AFP. "With that power, he can speed up what he wants and what the party wants". Salah and Medyen Saleh were flown out of Yemen from Sanaa international airport Yemen's Huthi rebels on Wednesday announced they had released two of slain ex-president Ali Abdallah Saleh's sons, 10 months after they were captured following the killing of their father. Salah and Medyen Saleh were pardoned by Mehdi Mushat, head of the rebels' supreme political council, and subsequently released, the rebel-run Saba news agency said. It did not give further details. Multiple political sources close to the late president said neighbouring Oman, which has remained neutral in the Yemen war, played a major role in brokering their release, which came on condition the two stepped down from Yemeni politics. Ali Abdullah Saleh's party, the General People's Congress, has lost its power in the war between the Iran-backed Huthis and Saudi-led pro-government alliance, but continues to be a useful ally for Yemeni politicians seeking broader appeal. A source at Sanaa international airport said Salah and Medyen Saleh were being flown out on a chartered UN flight to Jordan. Sanaa international airport, controlled by the rebels, has been shut down for years. Saudi Arabia and its allies in a pro-government coalition control Yemen's airspace. A Jordanian official confirmed Saleh's two sons had arrived at Amman's Queen Alia International Airport from Sanaa, where their plane was due to stay for one hour. "It will go towards a third country," the official said in a statement, without detailing the plane's final destination. "The two sons will not enter Amman." The Huthis had been allied with Saleh for three years when a political dispute erupted, with mutual accusations of treason leading to armed clashes in the capital and ultimately the ex-president's death at the hands of the rebels in December 2017. Saleh had made overtures to Saudi Arabia in the weeks leading to his death. The rebels are believed to still be holding relatives of Ali Abdallah Saleh, including one of his nephews. The Huthis seized Sanaa in September 2014, triggering the outbreak of the Yemen conflict. In the following months, they took control of large parts of the country, prompting the intervention of a regional coalition led by Saudi Arabia. Nearly 10,000 people have been killed since the Saudi-led alliance intervened in 2015, according to the World Health Organization. The actual death toll is likely much higher, according to rights groups. Former President of the Maldives Mohamed Nasheed was sentenced to 13 years prison in 2015 but went into exile a year later, after being granted prison leave for medical treatment in the UK Former Maldives leader Mohamed Nasheed announced Wednesday he would return home two years after going into exile as Abdulla Yameen's term of strongman rule comes to a close in the paradise islands. Nasheed was the country's first democratically elected president but left in 2016, after being jailed for terrorism in a trial the UN said was politically motivated. He was barred from contesting the September 23 poll won by his party's nominee Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who defeated Yameen despite restrictions on opposition campaigning. Nasheed was sentenced to 13 years prison in 2015 but went into exile a year later, after being granted prison leave for medical treatment in the UK. He is still a fugitive from justice in the Maldives and risks arrest if he returns while Yameen is still in office but his five years of iron-fisted rule ends on November 17. "If we at this juncture try to find an amicable arrangement for my freedom with the now defunct Maldives Supreme Court, it will not further our ambitions for judicial reform in the Maldives," Nasheed said on Twitter, referring to Yameen's crackdown on the judiciary. "I will go to the Maldives on 01 November, come what may." Another former president, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, was this week released from jail just days after Yameen, his estranged half-brother, lost the election. Gayoom, 80, and his legislator son Faris Maumoon, were released on bail by the High Court in Male, raising hopes that other political prisoners will be freed soon. Former foes Nasheed and Gayoom both backed Solih to challenge Yameen, who had locked up all his key political opponents or forced them to flee the country. Gayoom had ruled the nation of 340,000 Sunni Muslims for 30 years until he was defeated by Nasheed in the Maldives' first multi-party elections in 2008. Gayoom, along with several top judges, was arrested in February and charged with trying to overthrow Yameen. The president responded by declaring a 45-day state of emergency to block his impeachment. Another high profile Maldivian dissident, Qasim Ibrahim, has also been granted bail, but is not in the Maldives. He too was in exile in Europe, having obtained prison leave for medical treatment. Togo opposition leader Nicodeme Ayao Habia, pictured here on September 27, has been on hunger strike since September 19 A Togolese opposition leader who has been on hunger strike for two weeks has been taken to hospital, his associates said on Wednesday. Nicodeme Ayao Habia, who has refused food since September 19, has been demanding the release of protesters who were detained after demonstrating against the ruling government. He was admitted to a clinic in the capital, Lome, after his condition worsened, his communication advisor Achille Mensah told AFP. "Habia should be cared for in Accra (Ghana's capital) but the ambulance that took him wasn't able to cross the border," he said. "Togolese immigration officers said they were not aware of his evacuation, even though we had the necessary clearance," Mensah added, saying that arrangements were still being made to take Habia out of the country for medical treatment. Habia has been staging his hunger strike outside Ghana's embassy in Lome. Accra has also been acting as mediator in a long-running dispute between the Togolese government and opposition figures over constitutional reform. Last week, a Ghanaian military plane landed in Lome to transport Habia but it was not allowed to leave the airport due to a lack of detail about its mission, according to Togo's security minister General Yark Damehane. "Togo is not a colony of Ghana," said Damehane, adding that Ghana could not send a plane without letting the Togolese authorities know first. Referring to Habia's hunger strike, Damehane said: "It's theatre. You want us to play along?" Habia has called for the release from prison of some 40 opposition activists who were arrested during protests demanding the resignation of Togo's President Faure Gnassingbe. Meanwhile, an umbrella organisation for many civil society groups in the tiny West African country announced a new anti-government march for Friday, October 5. Former Ivory Coast President Laurent Gbagbo, pictured 2009, is the first-ever head of state to be handed over to the ICC and has been on trial since 2016 for his role in fomenting post-electoral violence in the west African nation The International Criminal Court on Wednesday pushed back to November a hearing on Ivory Coast former president Laurent Gbagbo's bid for release after defence lawyers said they needed more time. On Monday the court based in The Hague began dealing with Gbagbo's application to be acquitted of crimes against humanity and to be freed after seven years in detention. Gbagbo, 73, the first-ever head of state to be handed over to the ICC, has been on trial since 2016 for his role in fomenting post-electoral violence eight years ago in the west African nation. The hearings were meant to end on Friday, but lawyers for Gbagbo and his right-hand man Charles Ble Goude asked for more time. "We were confronted with a prosecution response of 1,100 pages and with 1,500 pages of documents on Monday," said Geert-Jan Knoops, lawyer for Ble Goude. "If we have to study all the details in the transcripts, in which we see a number of inconsistencies, we would need more time." Judge Cuno Tarfusser granted the request, setting the new hearing for November 12. Both Gbagbo and Ble Goude pleaded not guilty. Unrest wracked Ivory Coast for five months from December 2010 until early 2011, after Gbagbo refused to accept his internationally recognised defeat by bitter rival Alassane Ouattara. The crisis -- which saw both sides level allegations of gross abuses -- paralysed the world's largest cocoa producer and West African powerhouse for several months. About 3,000 people died when rival supporters clashed on the streets of Abidjan, one of the region's most cosmopolitan cities. After a months-long standoff, Gbagbo was arrested by Ouattara's troops aided by UN and French forces, and turned over to the ICC in 2011. Prosecutors maintain that Gbagbo clung to power "by all means" and that the longtime leader conspired with Ble Goude to orchestrate a plan to stay in power even before he was narrowly defeated by Ouattara. Defence lawyers however say the prosecution has failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt, despite 82 witnesses testifying, thousands of documents of evidence and hundreds of hours of video. Liberians hold a banner during a demonstration over the disappearance of newly printed bills in September 2018, but the Central Bank of Liberia says the money never went missing Liberia's central bank on Wednesday that $100 million US has been safely deposited in the West African country's reserves, dismissing rampant rumours that container-loads of banknotes had disappeared. "The Central Bank of Liberia wants to clarify to the general public and our partners in progress that there is no $16 billion (Liberian, 89 million euros, $102 million) missing, as has been erroneously reported in the media," CEO Nathaniel Patray said in a statement. "The CBL has no records showing that the money printed under its authority has not yet been delivered in its vaults," the bank said in a statement. Hundreds of Liberians took to the streets of the capital Monrovia on Monday to demonstrate over the alleged disappearance of the newly printed bills. The cash officially destined for the CBL at an unspecified time between last November and August this year had allegedly vanished without trace. Information Minister Lenn Eugene Nagbe told AFP last week the government would "leave no stone unturned" to find the cash as protesters blamed the authorities for what they termed "mass looting". President George Weah, who has vowed to clamp down on corruption, said on Saturday he would not rest until the issue was resolved. A classroom at the Government Girls Technical College in Dapchi (pictured February 2018), deserted by fleeing students after Boko Haram Islamists kidnapped 110 school girls that same month, one of whom -- Leah Sharibu -- remains in captivity Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday tried to comfort the mother of a Christian schoolgirl held by Boko Haram telling her her daughter would be freed. Leah Sharibu, 15, was among more than 100 schoolgirls abducted from their hostel in the town of Dapchi in the restive northeast on February 19. The only Christian among the hostages, she remains in captivity months after all the other girls were released because she refused to convert to Islam. "I convey my emotion, the strong commitment of my administration and the solidarity of all Nigerians to you and your family as we will do our best to bring your daughter home in peace and safety," Buhari's office quoted him as telling Rebecca Sharibu, Leah's mother. The president said his heart was with the Sharibu family, as was that of the entire nation which continues to pray for the safe return of "our daughter, Leah". In an unverified recording Boko Haram sent to local media in August, Sharibu begged Buhari to work for her freedom. "I plead with... the government and the president to have pity for me and save me from my situation," Sharibu said in Hausa, a language widely spoken in the north. The recording was the first evidence that Sharibu was alive since she was kidnapped. Fighters believed to be loyal to an IS-affiliated Boko Haram faction led by Abu Mus'ab Al-Barnawi abducted the girls after storming the Government Girls Science and Technical College in Dapchi in Yobe state. The incident evoked memories of the April 2014 kidnapping of 276 schoolgirls from the town of Chibok in neighbouring Borno state. Although more than 100 Chibok girls have been freed or rescued, some 112 are still missing. The jihadists returned 110 Dapchi girls to the town on March 21, following negotiations with the government. Some of the released girls said five schoolmates died in captivity while Sharibu was kept for refusing to renounce Christianity. SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - A U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit could delay the rollout of California's toughest-in-the country net neutrality law, which is set to take effect Jan. 1. Advocates hope California's new law to stop internet providers from favoring certain content or websites will push Congress to enact national rules or encourage other states to create their own. But legal experts say it's possible a judge will put the law on hold while the litigation plays out. If that happens, the delay could be significant because the issue appears destined for the U.S. Supreme Court. California Gov. Jerry Brown signed a law Sunday that prohibits internet service providers from blocking or slowing data based on content or from favoring websites or video streams from companies that pay extra. It also bans "zero rating," in which internet providers don't count certain content against a monthly data cap - generally video streams produced by the company's own subsidiaries and partners. The U.S. Department of Justice sued immediately, arguing that the federal government has exclusive authority to regulate the internet. Stanford University law professor Barbara van Schewick said the law adopts the same nationwide rules the Federal Communications Commission repealed in June. The constitutionality of California's law - and whether other states can adopt their own net neutrality rules - depends heavily on the outcome of a pending case in a Washington, D.C., federal appeals court, van Schewick said. FILE - In this June 29, 2018, file photo, California Gov. Jerry Brown speaks at a forum in Sacramento, Calif. Brown signed the nation's toughest net neutrality measure Sunday, Sept. 30, requiring internet providers to maintain a level playing field online. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli, File) When the FCC repeated the Obama-era rules last year that prevented companies from exercising more control over what people watch and see on the internet, it also barred states from crafting their own rules like the California law by Democratic Sen. Scott Wiener. Net neutrality advocates worry that without rules, internet providers could create fast lanes and slow lanes that favor their own sites and apps or make it harder for consumers to see content from competitors. In response, the California attorney general and 21 other state attorneys general filed a lawsuit in January in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals seeking to invalidate the FCC rollback. The appeals court has yet to rule and van Schewick and other legal analysts expect an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, which will likely guide the outcome of the latest lawsuit. The DOJ and California are wrangling over the legal notion of "pre-emption" and whether the FCC is the sole regulator of net neutrality. Marc Martin, a former FCC staffer who is now chairman of communications practice at the law firm Perkins Coie, said typical "pre-emption" lawsuits filed by the federal government seek to bar states from ignoring properly enacted federal regulations such as the Voting Rights Act. But with net neutrality, Martin said the FCC insists it remains the sole regulatory authority despite its deregulatory actions. Martin said it's a rare pre-emption argument, but it's not novel. A federal agency tasked with setting airline routes and fares was abolished in the 1970s, but states are still not permitted to adopt their own airline rules. Nonetheless, Martin and other legal analysts say California also has a strong legal argument. "California could argue net neutrality laws are consumer protection laws," he said. "It is well established that states have the authority to protect the health, welfare and safety of their own residents, that's why they have their own police forces, national guard, state attorney general and their own consumer protection laws, Martin said. "California could argue net neutrality laws are consumer protection laws." Regardless of the eventual outcome, Martin also believes a federal judge in California will stop the state's law from taking effect while the lawsuit remains unresolved. Boston College of Law professor Dan Lyons said federal lawmakers are key to settling the argument between the FCC and California and other states seeking to set up their own rules. "The only way the issue will go away completely is if Congress passes a statute over net neutrality," Lyons said. "Congress has not made clear what role if any the FCC should have regulating the internet." Lyons wasn't optimistic that was occurring any time soon. "The only lasting settlement would be bipartisan congressional legislation," he said. "I don't see it happening in the near future." ___ Anderson contributed from New York. Associated Press writer Jonathan J. Cooper in Sacramento, California, also contributed to this report. FILE- In this Dec. 14, 2017, file photo, a sign with an emoji reads "Don't take net neutrality away" is posted outside the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), in Washington. California Gov. Jerry Brown has approved the nation's strongest net neutrality law, prompting an immediate lawsuit by the Trump administration and opening the next phase in the battle over regulating the internet. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File) CANBERRA, Australia (AP) - A passenger's body has been found in the Pacific lagoon where a plane crash-landed last week near an island runway in Micronesia. Air Niugini had initially said all 47 passengers and crew had survived when the Boeing 737 crashed near the Chuuk island runway on Friday. The Papua New Guinea national carrier said on Saturday one passenger had not been accounted for but was witnessed reaching a rescue dinghy as U.S. Navy sailors and locals helped people escape the sinking plane. But Air Niugini chief executive Tahawar Durrani said the man's body was found by divers Monday. The airline said in a statement on Tuesday the man was Indonesian, but did not reveal his identity. "Our outreach team is in touch with the man's family and we are making arrangements to repatriate his body," Durrani said in a statement. Four passengers were in stable conditions at a Chuuk island hospital and will be taken soon to Guam for further treatment, Air Niugini said. FILE - In this Sept. 28, 2018, file photo, local fishing boats move in to recover the passengers and crew of Air Niugini flight following the plane crashing into the sea on its approach to Chuuk International Airport in the Federated States of Micronesia. The airline operating a flight that crashed into a Pacific lagoon on Friday in Micronesia now says that one man is missing, after earlier saying that all 47 passengers and crew had safely evacuated the sinking plane. (James Yaingeluo via AP, File) Hospital and aviation officials have not responded to requests for comment. Flight PX73 from nearby Pohnpei island crashed about 145 meters (475 feet) from the Chuuk International Airport runway, the airline said. What caused the crash remains unclear. The airline and U.S. Navy said the plane landed in the lagoon short of the runway. Some witnesses thought the plane overshot the runway. A Papua New Guinea accident investigation team flew to Micronesia on Friday, the Post Courier newspaper reported. Flight PX73 flies from Tokyo's Narita International Airport to Papua New Guinea's capital, Port Moresby, via Pohnpei and Chuuk. Air Niugini has operated since 1973. Data from the Aviation Safety Network indicate the Indonesian passenger is Air Niugini's first fatality in two decades. AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) - President Donald Trump's son is raising money for Republican candidates in Maine. Donald Trump Jr. spoke Monday night at a fundraising event at the Holiday Inn By The Bay in Portland. Republican guests included Gov. Paul LePage, U.S. Senate candidate Eric Brakey, Senate Majority Leader Garrett Mason and House Republican Leader Ken Fredette. A general reception cost $100 per attendee. Tickets for a private reception started at $1,500 per person. The event was closed to the press. A handful of protesters were outside. Trump Jr. is a vocal proponent of his father's policies. He's recently headlined rallies in Pennsylvania and Montana. ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) - Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's oldest son, Track, hit a woman in the head after telling her that she couldn't leave his house and resisted as authorities arrested him, court documents said. Track Palin, 29, is in jail facing misdemeanor charges including assault, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct less than a year after being accused of attacking his father at his parents' home. A female acquaintance said Palin blocked the doorway when she tried to leave his house in the city of Wasilla on Friday night, according to an affidavit by Alaska State Troopers. She told authorities that he took her phone when she said she would call the police if she didn't let her leave. She said she made it to her car in the driveway but that Palin followed her and "was on top of her, hitting her in the head," the document said. They wrestled over the phone and he let her leave after she screamed for help, the affidavit said. Her arm had small scratches and the back of her head and neck were red, a trooper wrote. Troopers went to Palin's house and said he told them that the two were arguing over how they said goodbye and that any injuries the woman had she did to herself. FILE -This Sept. 3, 2008, file photo shows Track Palin, son of Sarah Palin during the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn. Authorities say the former Alaska governor's oldest son has been arrested again on suspicion of assault. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File) Palin said he was injured but wouldn't explain further or let troopers examine him, the document says. Authorities said a trooper told Palin he was under arrest and tried to put his arm behind his back, but he tried to pull it forward. When two troopers tried to pull his arms back, he kicked over a coffee table, the document says. A trooper pulled him to the ground. After Palin was cuffed, troopers say they tried to put him in a vehicle but he "was pulling and shoving with his shoulder." He threw his head back toward a trooper's face, who moved to avoid getting hit, lost his balance and they both fell down, the documents say. Palin appeared in court Saturday, where a judge set a $500 unsecured bond with the condition of wearing a monitoring device if released. Palin, whose mother was the 2008 Republican vice presidential nominee, was arrested in an assault on his father, Todd, last December. He was accused of breaking in to his parents' home and leaving Todd Palin bleeding from cuts on his head, authorities have said. Track Palin, an Army veteran who served one year in Iraq, was accepted into a therapeutic program intended to rehabilitate veterans and pleaded guilty to misdemeanor criminal trespassing in a plea agreement. His lawyer in that case says he hasn't been contacted to represent Palin in the new case. Patrick Bergt says he doesn't know how the allegations will affect Palin's standing in Alaska Veterans Court, which gives eligible former service members the option of enrolling in mental health treatment instead of a traditional sentence. The arrangement called for Palin to serve 10 days in jail if he completed the program. If he didn't, he would serve a year. Palin family attorney John Tiemessen said he had no firsthand knowledge of the new case. Palin also was accused of punching his then-girlfriend in 2016, court documents said. He pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm while intoxicated, and the other charges were dismissed. Sarah Palin indicated that post-traumatic stress disorder might have been a factor in that case. MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) - About 400 guns have been stolen from a United Parcel Service facility in Memphis, Tennessee, and authorities are concerned about the theft's potential effect on public safety in this city and elsewhere. Two people driving a U-Haul truck stole the weapons from a UPS facility in Memphis on Sunday, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said Monday. The agency is asking for the public's help in the case: It offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Investigators are looking into exactly how many guns were taken, but the estimate of 400 stolen firearms makes it one of the largest single gun thefts the ATF has investigated, bureau spokesman Michael Knight said. ATF agents and the Memphis Police Department are reviewing manifests and bills to determine where the guns were shipped from and where they were going. Memphis, like other large metropolitan areas, has a problem with violent crime, including gun-related offenses. The metro area, with more than 1.3 million people, saw an estimated 15,737 violent crimes in 2017, FBI statistics showed. UPS said in a statement that it is working with law enforcement but does not comment on open investigations. Such a high number of stolen guns could present a danger to the safety of the public and first responders in the west Tennessee city and elsewhere because they could be transported to other places within hours, Knight said. "We are concerned that the firearms will end up on the streets not only potentially in the Memphis area, but also across the country," Knight said. "The criminal element knows no geographical boundary." ATF is asking the public to send it social media posts, photos or any other information related to the theft. Knight said investigating a theft from a shipping facility is more complicated than a gun shop, for example, because weapons at gun stores are isolated in inventory. "It's a very tedious process that we're looking at to make sure that every firearm is accounted for, from the shipper as well as from the receiver," Knight said. A Mississippi judge declared a second mistrial Monday in the capital murder case of a man accused of setting a woman on fire, after jurors once again said they couldn't reach a verdict. Panola County Circuit Judge Gerald Chatham made his ruling in the trial of Quinton Tellis after jurors deliberated for about 10 hours over two days. Tellis, now 29, was accused of setting Jessica Chambers ablaze in 2014. As in the first trial, jurors had to choose between evidence that prosecutors said linked the defendant to Chambers' death and testimony by emergency workers that they heard a dying Chambers say someone named Eric attacked her. It wasn't immediately clear if Mississippi prosecutors would try Tellis a third time. Either way, he won't walk free; he's currently serving a five-year sentence on an unrelated burglary conviction in Mississippi. And in Louisiana, he has been indicted for murder in the stabbing death of Meing-Chen Hsiao, a Taiwanese former graduate student, in the city of Monroe. Tellis has already pleaded guilty to unauthorized use of Hsiao's debit card. Defense attorneys again insisted that prosecutors had the wrong man, pointing to the testimony of 10 firefighters and emergency medical personnel who said they heard Chambers say "Eric" set her on fire. Emergency workers said the scene was filled with the clatter of fire engines and some said it was hard for them to understand what Chambers was desperately trying to tell them. Still, their accumulated testimony clearly made a difference. Prosecutors tried casting doubt on their statements, calling in a speech pathologist and a plastic surgeon who testified that in her badly burned state, Chambers was unlikely to be able to properly enunciate. "They're going to try their best to hear anything," Dr. William Hickerson said. "With my medical opinion, that would not be the case." A federal intelligence analyst testified that Chambers had never gotten a phone call or a text from anyone named Eric. Her Facebook friends included an Eric and an Erik, but investigators ruled them out. A DNA analyst testified that although she couldn't match Tellis to DNA found on Chambers' keys, she couldn't exclude him, although 99.7 percent of men could be excluded. Prosecutors also countered with hours of videotaped interrogations in which Tellis repeatedly changed his story when confronted with new evidence. Tellis initially denied seeing Chambers late in the day, but later admitted he had been with her up until about an hour before her death. Defense attorneys characterized those lapses as normal forgetfulness, but investigators characterized them as deception and lying. Prosecutors also relied on cellphone evidence showing Tellis and Chambers at similar locations and surveillance camera footage showing vehicles coming and going from his house at times consistent with their theory that Tellis drove a borrowed vehicle back to the crime scene to set the fire. Defense attorneys attacked that timeline as implausible, saying that to do what prosecutors alleged, Tellis would have to be a "supercriminal." JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (AP) - As the fate of his Supreme Court pick hangs in the balance, President Donald Trump barnstormed Monday for a Republican Senate candidate in Tennessee, warning that Democrats will unleash havoc if they gain control of Congress and accusing them of trying to sink his nominee. "A Democratic takeover of Congress will plunge our country into gridlock and chaos and take away all of the wealth that you've earned over the last 20 months," Trump warned, claiming without evidence that the stock market would plummet, 401(k)s disappear, taxes rise beyond "your wildest imagination," and crime go through the roof. It was a dire picture painted by a president eager to convince his raucous supporters of what's at stake in November as he headlined a high-dollar, closed-door fundraiser and appeared at a packed rally in Johnson City to boost U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn in her tight Senate race against the state's Democratic ex-Gov. Phil Bredesen for the seat being vacated by retiring Republican Sen. Bob Corker. Trump praised Blackburn as a "true fighter" for the state, telling the crowd, "She's all about Tennessee values." "A vote for Marsha is really a vote for me," he said. Bredesen, like other Democratic candidates across Trump country, has painted himself as a pragmatist willing to work with the president on certain issues. The Tennessee campaign is among several closely watched races expected to determine control of the Senate, where Republicans are desperate to defend a narrow two-seat majority in the face of surging Democratic enthusiasm. President Donald Trump acknowledges the crowd as he finishes speaking at a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) And the stakes couldn't be clearer. The rally came as the FBI investigated sexual misconduct allegations against Trump's Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh - a probe that was forced by a small group of undecided senators who could doom the nomination. Earlier Monday, Trump disputed reports that his White House tried to narrow the scope of the probe and limit which witnesses the FBI could interview, saying he wants them "to do a very comprehensive investigation, whatever that means." But Trump was far less sympathetic in front of his enthusiastic rally crowd, accusing Democrats of trying to slow down the investigation and insisting that nothing will come of it. "If we took 10 years, they'd want more time," he complained, charging that Democratic senators are "willing to do anything or hurt anyone" to subvert his agenda, including taking down his nominee. "They're trying to destroy a very fine person, and we can't let it happen," Trump said. Kavanaugh has staunchly denied allegations now leveled by multiple women, including one who testified that he pinned her against a bed, groped her, tried to take her clothes off and covered her mouth to silence her when they were in high school. The rally was the first of a busy week of campaign travel for the president that will take him to states including Mississippi, Minnesota and Kansas. Previewing his own re-election playbook, Trump criticized a number of rumored 2020 presidential opponents, including Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey, Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and former Vice President Joe Biden. "We call him 1 percent Biden," said Trump, claiming that his political career was finished until former President Barack Obama "took him off the trash heap." Trump, who railed against the North American Free Trade Agreement during his 2016 campaign, also hailed the revamped trade agreement with Canada and Mexico unveiled late Sunday, drawing loud cheers from his crowd. "It's fair, it's modern and it's balanced," Trump said. "America's winning again." But Trump spent far more time railing against "radical Democrats," who he said had been "in a blind rage" since his election win. "They've gone crazy," he said. "Trying to burn our future down." Blackburn's contest, in a state that Trump won by 26 points, has drawn heavy interest from the White House, with repeat visits by both Trump and Vice President Mike Pence. Bredesen has tried to distance himself from the national Democratic Party, presenting himself as an independent thinker who will support Trump's policies when they're beneficial to the state. The former two-term governor, who would be the first Democrat to win a Senate campaign in Tennessee since Al Gore in 1990 if he's victorious, has run TV ads in which he says that he's "not running against Donald Trump" and learned long ago to "separate the message from the messenger." He held an event Monday night in Chattanooga that he'd hoped would be a debate with Blackburn, and he has been needling her for not agreeing to one. "Presidential visits are good for fundraising, but I've found that Tennesseans are independent thinkers who can make up their own minds," Bredesen said in a statement after Trump's visit. Trump, as he has in other states, argued that Bredesen is not the centrist he says he is and will wind up voting with Democratic leaders including Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi if he gets to Washington. Republicans hold a narrow 51-49 advantage in the Senate and are trying to hold onto their majority. ___ Lemire reported from New York. Associated Press writer Kimberlee Kruesi contributed to this report from Nashville. ___ Follow Colvin and Lemire on Twitter at https://twitter.com/colvinj and https://twitter.com/JonLemire President Donald Trump waves to the crowd as he leaves a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) President Donald Trump speaks at a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) President Donald Trump speaks at a rally in Johnson City, Tenn., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) President Donald Trump speaks at a rally in Johnson City, Tenn., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) President Donald Trump speaks at a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) Rep. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., is welcomed by President Donald Trump at a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. Blackburn is a candidate for Senate. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) Rep. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., walks onto the stage with President Donald Trump at a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. Blackburn is a candidate for Senate. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) Rep. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., speaks as President Donald Trump listens at a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. Blackburn is a candidate for Senate against Democratic former Tenn. Gov. Phil Bredesen. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) President Donald Trump holds up a list of his administration accomplishments as he speaks at a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) - The Latest on the arrest of Track Palin on assault allegations (all times local): 1:30 p.m. A prosecutor says Track Palin's arrest over the weekend could get him thrown out of a therapeutic program for veterans stemming from a separate case. The oldest son of former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin was arrested Friday night in an assault on a female acquaintance and faces misdemeanor charges including assault, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. The 29-year-old Track Palin was arrested in an assault on his father in last December. The Army veteran was accepted into a therapeutic program intended to rehabilitate veterans and pleaded guilty to a lesser charge. A judge in that case set a hearing for Wednesday to deal with the question of how the new case will affect his participation in veterans court. Anchorage District Attorney Richard Allen said Monday Palin's arrest would violate conditions in the veterans court case and could lead to jail time. He said it will be up to the judge to decide whether Palin will be able to stay in the program or serve time in jail. Track Palin's lawyer in that case, Patrick Bergt, says he hasn't been contacted to represent Palin in the new case. Patrick Bergt says he doesn't know how the allegations will affect Palin's standing in veterans court. ___ 12:45 p.m. Court documents say Track Palin kicked over a coffee table and tried to avoid getting into a patrol car as authorities arrested him in an assault on a female acquaintance. An affidavit by Alaska State Troopers says former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's oldest son tried to pull his arm forward when a trooper tried to handcuff him Friday night and then kicked the table, knocking it over. The document says another trooper pulled him to the ground. After Palin was cuffed, troopers say they tried to put him in a vehicle but he "was pulling and shoving with his shoulder." They say he threw his head back toward a trooper's face, who moved to avoid getting hit. He lost his balance and they both fell down. The 29-year-old Palin faces misdemeanor charges including assault, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. ___ 12:40 p.m. Court documents say Track Palin hit a female acquaintance in the head after telling her that she couldn't leave his house in Alaska. An affidavit by Alaska State Troopers says the woman told them that former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's oldest son took her phone when she said she'd call the police if she didn't let her leave his house Friday night. She says she made it to her car but Track Palin followed her and "was on top of her, hitting her in the head." The document says they wrestled over the phone and that he let her go after she screamed for help. A trooper says her arm had small scratches and the back of her head and neck were red. Troopers arrived and say Palin told them that the two were arguing and any injuries she had she did to herself. The 29-year-old is in jail facing misdemeanor charges including assault. ___ 10:25 a.m. Authorities say former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's oldest son has been arrested again on suspicion of assault. Alaska State Troopers say Track Palin also resisted arrest as they took him into custody at his Wasilla home on allegations he assaulted a female acquaintance there late Friday. Troopers say the woman tried to call authorities for help but he grabbed her phone. The 29-year-old is in jail facing charges including assault, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. Track Palin was arrested in an assault on his father in last December. The Army veteran was accepted into a therapeutic program intended to rehabilitate veterans and pleaded guilty to a lesser charge. His lawyer in that case says he hasn't been contacted to represent Palin in the new case. Patrick Bergt says he doesn't know how the allegations will affect Palin's standing in veterans court. ROCHESTER, Minn. (AP) - Prosecutors allege a Minnesota man fatally shot in the face as he opened his door last month was targeted by grandchildren of his elderly woman neighbor who mistakenly thought he had harmed her. Twenty-seven-year-old Malcolm Jammal Woods and 34-year-old Kielah Shanae Parsons, both of Rochester, Minnesota, appeared in court Monday on second-degree murder charges. A third suspect, 19-year-old Darien Kristopher Klindworth-Woods of North Mankato, Minnesota, faces charges of aiding and abetting. Police say 38-year-old Brandon Arndt was shot Sept. 10 when he answered a knock on his door. According to court documents, Arndt had checked on his disabled neighbor and given her water and her prescription pack. The woman later was taken to a hospital, and six men confronted Arndt and accused him of giving his neighbor illegal drugs. The Post Bulletin reports police say there's no evidence of any wrongdoing by Arndt. ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - The Latest on the report from an attorney hired by Democrats on the allegations against Rep. Keith Ellison (all times local): 6 p.m. A former girlfriend who accused Minnesota Rep. Keith Ellison of domestic abuse says a new report that calls her claim "unsubstantiated" is why she didn't go public earlier. Karen Monahan says in a series of Twitter messages that she didn't expect to be "heard, believed or validated" when she accused Ellison. Monahan accused Ellison in August of trying to drag her off a bed in 2016 while screaming obscenities. Ellison denied any abuse. An attorney hired by the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party to investigate the allegation wrote in a draft report that Monahan's allegation couldn't be substantiated because she refused to produce a video she claimed to have. Monahan says she shared plenty of evidence, including therapy notes and text messages between her and Ellison. ___ 4:05 p.m. Democratic Rep. Keith Ellison says he's focusing on the issues in the Minnesota attorney general's race after an attorney said she couldn't substantiate physical abuse allegations from Ellison's ex-girlfriend. Karen Monahan accused Ellison in August of dragging her off a bed by her feet in 2016 while screaming obscenities. She claims to have video footage of the incident. The Democratic congressman denies the incident occurred. Minnesota's Democratic-Farmer-Labor party hired an attorney from the same firm its top lawyer works at to investigate. Susan Ellingstad's report obtained by The Associated Press Monday concluded the allegation was unsubstantiated because Monahan won't provide video footage. Ellison says it's important that allegations of misconduct be investigated. But others say the issue is far from settled. His Republican opponent, Doug Wardlow, called the investigation a "sham." ___ 1:05 p.m. A lawyer investigating a woman's claim that she was physically abused by Minnesota Rep. Keith Ellison has concluded the allegation is unsubstantiated. The Associated Press on Monday obtained a draft of the report by Susan Ellingstad, an attorney hired by Minnesota's Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party to investigate the allegation. Ellison's ex-girlfriend, Karen Monahan, accused Ellison in August of dragging her off a bed by her feet in 2016 while screaming obscenities. She claims to have video footage of the incident. The Democratic congressman denies the incident occurred. Ellingstad writes in her report that Monahan's refusal to provide the video she says she has leads her "to conclude that the allegation is unsubstantiated." Ellingstad's report also notes Monahan gave shifting explanations for why she won't release the video. Ellison is leaving Congress to run for Minnesota attorney general. Arkansas authorities are scratching their heads to figure out how a small hole in the ground spewed out 12-foot flames last month. The bizarre hole, located on a private property in Midway, Arkansas, released a fiery display on the morning of September 17, yet officials are clueless as to how the hole opened up. On that fateful day the hole released a spectacle of furious flames for about 40 minutes, shocking bystanders. Then it suddenly stopped. Baxter County Judge Mickey Pendergrass joked that he's ruled out Satan as a possible explanation for the fire - as well as meteorites or a gas leak. 'As far as the spiritual Satan goes, we've ruled that out. He didn't come up and stick his pitchfork in the ground and blow that hole out,' he said to the Arkansas Democrat Gazette. Arkansas authorities are trying to figure out just what caused a hole in the ground in Midway to shoot out 12-foot high flames on September 17 at 4.30am and last for 40 minutes Midway locals say the hole, which was on a private property, has been there for 10 years An investigation ruled out a meteor, a gas leak, and Satan as potential causes for the fire. Geologists determined the hole was made by animals Investigators added they found no sign of methane at the source. No utility or fuel lines in the area were determined to be leaking, Pendergrass added. No one was able to take photo or video of the fire which broke out at 4.30am. A landscaper says that the hole was there for about 10 years but never unleashed an inferno before. 'It's kind of like an old groundhog hole, burrow, or armadillo's. But it's been there a long time,' Pendergrass said. That's what leads Midway Fire Protection District chief Donald Tucker to believe something fishy might be happening under ground. He said the hole acted 'like a chimney'. 'It was drawing air from a lower elevation...Whatever it was, it burned up its fuel and went out,' he said to the paper. Now officials are testing soil samples to come to a conclusion for the cause of the random fire The volleyball-sized hole spewed out 12-foot flames for 40 minutes straight last month, baffling the neighborhood Geologists scoped out the hole with a camera and also determined that the volleyball-sized hole was made by an animal. Soil samples taken from the site are yet to be analyzed by a lab. 'The soil samples should clear up any possibility of gasoline or anything else put down the hole or migrating groundwater contaminate such as gasoline,' Ty Johnson of the Geological Survey said. At first officials were concerned a gas leak could be behind the fire and could ignite other fires around the town, but that theory has been disproved. 'We've kind of relieved our fears about it being a danger to the surrounding neighborhood,' Pendergrass said. Fire chief Tucker said he was shocked when the fire exploded and has never seen anything like it before. 'It was burning red-orange color, about two feet in diameter. It came up about crotch high and spread out to that width...Then it just went down the hole and went out. For a little bit, there was just a little bit of glow of fire down the hole,' he said. 'I've never seen it before. I hope I never see it again. What it was, I have no idea,' he added. Pendergrass seemed to believe that the fire was set on purpose. 'What kind of fuel did they use to make it so clean and no soot and no damage? And what was used to strike the fire to start with? There are just too many questions for it not to have been done on purpose, whether it was for fun or for giggles. Somebody will talk someday and have to brag about it, and then we'll find out who did it,' he said. BATESVILLE, Miss. (AP) - The Latest on a mistrial in the case of a Mississippi woman burned to death (all times local): 5 p.m. A Mississippi prosecutor says he isn't sure yet whether he will seek to try a man a third time on charges that he set a woman on fire in 2014. Panola County District Attorney John Champion told reporters Monday that Quinton Tellis will be sent to Louisiana to face charges there after a second mistrial on capital murder charges in north Mississippi. A judge declared the mistrial Monday after jurors told him they were deadlocked. Jurors also couldn't reach a verdict in Tellis' first trial last year. In Louisiana, the 29-year-old Tellis has been indicted on a murder charge in the stabbing death of Meing-Chen Hsiao, a Taiwanese former graduate student, in the city of Monroe. Tellis has pleaded guilty to unauthorized use of Hsiao's debit card. Quinton Tellis and defense attorney Darla Palmer hug after the judge declared a mistrial during the seventh day of Tellis' retrial of Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Batesville, Miss. The jury could not reach a unanimous decision which resulted in a mistrial.(Brad Vest/The Commercial Appeal via AP) Defense attorney Darla Palmer tells reporters that the second trial "feels like a 'not guilty' to me." ___ 3:45 p.m. A Mississippi judge has declared a second mistrial in the capital murder case of a man accused of setting a woman on fire in 2014. Deadlocked jurors said they couldn't reach a verdict. Panola County Circuit Judge Gerald Chatham declared the mistrial Monday in the trial of Quinton Tellis, after jurors deliberated for two days. It's the second mistrial; a jury also was unable to reach a verdict in Tellis' first trial last year. Tellis was accused of setting Jessica Chambers ablaze in 2014. As in the first trial, jurors had to choose between evidence that prosecutors said linked Tellis to Chambers' death and testimony by emergency workers that they heard a dying Chambers say someone named Eric attacked her. ___ 2:30 p.m. Mississippi jurors continue to deliberate in the case of a man accused of setting a woman on fire in 2014. Jurors met for nearly five hours on Sunday and then resumed deliberations on Monday in the capital murder retrial of Quinton Tellis, accused in the burning death of Jessica Chambers. Jurors couldn't reach a verdict in Tellis' first trial last year. Panola County Circuit Judge Gerald Chatham is admonishing jurors to continue their discussions after jurors said on Monday they hadn't reached a verdict. Jurors are also reviewing surveillance video and phone records that prosecutors argued link Tellis to Chambers' death. The case, tried in Batesville, went to jurors Sunday following six days of testimony. Tellis faces another murder indictment in Louisiana in the death of Meing-Chen Hsiao in Monroe. Defense attorney Alton Peterson, left, and Quinton Tellis shake hands after the judge declared another mistrial during the seventh day of the retrial of Quinton Tellis on Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Batesville, Miss. The jury could not reach a unanimous decision which resulted in a mistrial.(Brad Vest/The Commercial Appeal via AP) Quinton Tellis is seen during the seventh day of the his retrial on Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Batesville, Miss. The jury could not reach a unanimous decision which resulted in a mistrial.(Brad Vest/The Commercial Appeal via AP) Judge Gerald Chatham declares a mistrial after the jury could not reach a unanimous decision during the seventh day of the retrial of Quinton Tellis on Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Batesville, Miss. (Brad Vest/The Commercial Appeal via AP) Lead prosecutor John Champion speaks to the media after another mistrial was declared during the seventh day of the retrial of Quinton Tellis on Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Batesville, Miss. The jury could not reach a unanimous decision which resulted in a mistrial.(Brad Vest/The Commercial Appeal via AP) Lead prosecutor John Champion speaks to the media after a another mistrial was declared during the seventh day of the retrial of Quinton Tellis on Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Batesville, Miss. The jury could not reach a unanimous decision which resulted in a mistrial.(Brad Vest/The Commercial Appeal via AP) Quinton Tellis looks up as lead prosecutor John Champion, left, walks across the courtroom during the seventh day of his retrial of on Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Batesville, Miss. (Brad Vest/The Commercial Appeal via AP) CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) - Officials say Charlottesville, Virginia's former police chief is still receiving his salary although he resigned after a scathing report about the law enforcement response to a deadly white nationalist rally last year. City spokesman Brian Wheeler told The Daily Progress on Monday that Al Thomas isn't on active duty but will remain on the city's payroll through July 15. He says Thomas' annual salary is more than $134,000. Thomas stepped down in December after the release of the report by former federal prosecutor Tim Heaphy over the August 2017 "Unite the Right" rally. Wheeler says that Thomas didn't enter the standard contract for most public employees when he was hired in 2016. Virginia Coalition for Open Government Director Megan Rhyne says the contract should be disclosed in her opinion. ___ Information from: The Daily Progress, http://www.dailyprogress.com NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (AP) - A Connecticut mayor has nixed the renaming of a street honoring the father of Paul Manafort. New Britain Republican Erin Stewart on Monday vetoed the proposal, accusing local Democrats of trying to "score cheap political points" and attempting to "invent or rewrite history." The city council's majority leader, Carlo Carlozzi, tells the Hartford Courant that Democrats will try to override Stewart's veto next month. He says there's concern the street name "brings embarrassment to the city." Democrats hope to rename it after an African-American 19th century educator and diplomat. Stewart recently changed the name from Paul Manafort Drive to Paul Manafort Sr. Drive to clarify it refers to the three-term mayor and not his son, the former chairman of Donald Trump's presidential campaign who has been convicted of financial crimes. ___ Information from: Hartford Courant, http://www.courant.com WASHINGTON (AP) - The Latest on Melania Trump's trip to Africa (all times local): 6:20 p.m. First lady Melania Trump has departed from Washington on her first big international trip without the president. Mrs. Trump left early Monday evening on a seven-day trip that will take her to the African nations of Ghana, Malawi, Kenya and Egypt. Child welfare is to be the main focus. She gave a rare wave to the press corps and sent an enthusiastic tweet: ""We are taking off for #Africa! So looking forward to visiting #Ghana #Malawi #Kenya & #Egypt as I take #BeBest international. #FLOTUSinAfrica2018." Her first extended turn on the world stage outside the shadow of President Donald Trump could still be complicated by her husband. Trump has upset some African leaders with impolite comments about the continent, including using a vulgarity to describe some countries. First lady Melania Trump waves as she boards a plane, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Andrews Air Force Base, Md., en route to Africa. Melania Trump heads for Africa on her first big solo international trip, aiming to make child well-being the focus of a five-day, four-country tour. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) ___ 2:15 a.m. Melania Trump is pushing ahead in her role as first lady by going on her first big international trip without the president. She departs Washington on Monday afternoon on a seven-day trip that will take her to the African nations of Ghana, Malawi, Kenya and Egypt. Child welfare is to be the main focus. But her first extended turn on the world stage outside the shadow of President Donald Trump could still be complicated by her husband, even though he'll be thousands of miles and an ocean away. Trump has upset some African leaders with impolite comments about the continent, including using a vulgarity to describe some countries. One Africa expert says Mrs. Trump may end up having to also play the role of fence-mender as a result. First lady Melania Trump boards a plane, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Andrews Air Force Base, Md., en route to Africa. Melania Trump heads for Africa on her first big solo international trip, aiming to make child well-being the focus of a five-day, four-country tour. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) First lady Melania Trump boards a plane, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Andrews Air Force Base, Md., en route to Africa. Melania Trump heads for Africa on her first big solo international trip, aiming to make child well-being the focus of a five-day, four-country tour. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) First lady Melania Trump steps from her motorcade vehicle to board a plane, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Andrews Air Force Base, Md., en route to Africa. Melania Trump heads for Africa on her first big solo international trip, aiming to make child well-being the focus of a five-day, four-country tour. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) First lady Melania Trump boards a plane, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Andrews Air Force Base, Md., en route to Africa. Melania Trump heads for Africa on her first big solo international trip, aiming to make child well-being the focus of a five-day, four-country tour. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) First lady Melania Trump steps from her motorcade vehicle to board a plane, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Andrews Air Force Base, Md., en route to Africa. Melania Trump heads for Africa on her first big solo international trip, aiming to make child well-being the focus of a five-day, four-country tour. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) WASHINGTON (AP) - The Latest on President Donald Trump's Tennessee rally (all times local): 7:45 p.m. President Donald Trump is barnstorming for the Republican Senate candidate locked in a tight race in Tennessee. The president appeared at a rally in Johnson City to support U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn, who is facing Democratic former Gov. Phil Bredesen (BRED'-uh-sen). They are competing for the seat currently held by retiring Republican Sen. Bob Corker. Trump declared that Blackburn would be a "true fighter" for Tennessee while her opponent, if elected, could make Democrat Chuck Schumer the new Senate majority leader. Republicans hold a narrow 51-49 advantage in the Senate and are trying to hold onto their majority. As the prospects of the GOP keeping the House of Representatives appear to be fading, the president has accelerated his campaigning in support of Republican Senate candidates in recent weeks. President Donald Trump arrives at a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) ___ 7:35 p.m. President Donald Trump is attacking Senate Democrats who questioned the integrity of his Supreme Court nominee. Trump, at a rally in Tennessee on Monday, declared the Democrats were trying to slow down the FBI probe into allegations of sexual misconduct against Judge Brett Kavanaugh. The president said, "If we took 10 years, they'd want more time." He says the Democrats are undermining Kavanaugh's credibility and are "willing to do anything or hurt anyone" to submarine his agenda. Kavanaugh has denied claims from multiple women, including one who testified that he pinned her against a bed, groped her and tried to take her clothes off when they were in high school. He singled out a number of rumored 2020 presidential opponents for criticism, including Sens. Cory Booker of New Jersey, Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and former Vice President Joe Biden. ___ 6:30 p.m. President Donald Trump is back in Tennessee, trying to push U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn's Senate bid over the finish line. Trump is headlining a closed-door fundraiser for Blackburn in Johnson City before he appears at a packed rally at the Freedom Hall Civic Center. Couples have paid $10,000 to attend and take a photo with Trump, and $25,000 to participate in a round table with the president, according to the invitation. Blackburn is in a tight race against the state's Democratic ex-Gov. Phil Bredesen to replace retiring Republican Sen. Bob Corker. It's among several races expected to determine control of the Senate, where Republicans are desperate to defend a narrow two-seat majority in the face of surging Democratic enthusiasm. __ 4:25 p.m. President Donald Trump is heading back to Tennessee to try to push U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn's Senate bid over the finish line. Trump will be headlining a fundraiser and hosting a rally in Johnson City for Blackburn, who is in a tight race against Democratic ex-Gov. Phil Bredesen (BRED'-uh-sen) for the seat being vacated by retiring Republican Sen. Bob Corker. According to the invitation, the high-dollar fundraiser will cost couples $10,000 to $25,000. The rally comes as the FBI continues to investigate sexual misconduct allegations leveled against Brett Kavanaugh, Trump's Supreme Court nominee. Trump is planning a busy week of campaign travel, with trips to a handful of states including Mississippi, Minnesota and Kansas as he tries to boost Republican turnout for the midterm elections. President Donald Trump arrives at a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) President Donald Trump holds up a shirt handed to him from the crowd at a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) President Donald Trump arrives at a rally Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Johnson City, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) People react after singing the National Anthem as they wait for President Donald Trump to speak at a rally in Johnson City, Tenn., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) - Organizers of the Burlington Book Festival are facing criticism over a scheduled appearance by Garrison Keillor, former host of "A Prairie Home Companion." The Burlington Free Press reports that Steve Cormier called the decision "tone deaf" because Keillor was accused of sexually harassing a woman who worked on his radio show. Last November, Minnesota Public Radio severed ties with the then-75-year-old Keillor over the accusations. He is now 76. Rick Kisonak, the festival's founding director, defended his decision and noted Keillor's contributions to literature. He said it was "careless" to conflate Keillor with "people like Bill Cosby and Harvey Weinstein." Keillor has denied the allegations against him. The "Few Words with Garrison Keillor" event is scheduled for Oct. 14. MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) - The Republican senator who suddenly sits at the center of the explosive Supreme Court debate promised Monday to oppose President Donald Trump's nominee should an ongoing federal investigation determine he lied under oath. Arizona Sen. Jeff Flake, who holds extraordinary leverage in the confirmation process, addressed Judge Brett Kavanaugh's future directly as he trekked across New England while exploring a possible run for president. Asked what would cause him to vote "no" on Kavanaugh, Flake pointed to "any evidence that corroborates" his accuser's story. "Any nominee that lies to the committee, that is disqualifying," Flake told reporters after delivering a speech in New Hampshire, the state that hosts the nation's first presidential primary election. During a Boston appearance earlier in the day, Flake also vowed to ensure the FBI conducts "a real investigation" into the allegations against Kavanaugh. "It does us no good to have an investigation that just gives us more cover," he said at the Forbes Under 30 Summit. Flake's comments came as the White House insisted it's not "micromanaging" a one-week review of decades-old allegations of sexual misconduct against Kavanaugh. Some Democratic lawmakers claimed the White House was keeping investigators from interviewing certain witnesses. Monday marked Flake's second New Hampshire visit this year. The 55-year-old soft-spoken Republican, who is retiring from the Senate at the end of the year, is a reluctant presidential prospect at best. During a spring visit to the state, he declared his interest in a possible 2020 presidential bid - as a Republican or an independent - if no other Republican were to step up to challenge Trump. Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., speaks during an appearance at the Forbes 30 Under 30 Summit, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Boston. (AP Photo/Mary Schwalm) Three days ago, the Republican senator single-handedly delayed Kavanaugh's confirmation proceedings by insisting on an FBI investigation as a condition for his support. The GOP's razor-thin majority in the Senate, 51-49, lent power to his demand. Liberal protesters in Boston and New Hampshire pleaded with Flake to block Kavanaugh's nomination. At a rally that drew hundreds to Boston City Hall, New York congressional candidate Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez warned Flake and other elected leaders that voters would end their careers should they support Trump's Supreme Court nominee. "We are going to keep pushing because justice in America is not just about protecting the powerful," Ocasio-Cortez said. "It is about uplifting the voices that have been victimized." Boston Mayor Marty Walsh offered a direct message to the Republican senator from Arizona. "I guess I want to say, 'Thank you,'" Walsh said. "But that's your job. That's your job to vet the nominee." Should he oppose Trump in 2020, Flake is unlikely to win much support from New Hampshire Republicans, said Republican strategist Joel Maiola. "In the climate we've got today it's going to be hard for someone like Jeff Flake to get any kind of momentum," he said. "I think it's a very conservative party right now." While Flake is a self-described "proud conservative and lifelong Republican," his impending retirement has freed him to condemn the political climate in Trump's GOP. Facing New Hampshire voters at Saint Anselm College, Flake repeatedly condemned the rise of "tribalism" shaping the Supreme Court debate and U.S. politics. "My message here today is tribalism is ruining us. It is tearing our country apart. It is no way for sane adults to act," Flake declared. "I've been failing my tribe for some time now," he continued. "I hope to continue to fail my tribe." ___ Associated Press writer Bob Salsberg in Boston contributed to this report. Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., listens to a question during an appearance at the Forbes 30 Under 30 Summit, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Boston. (AP Photo/Mary Schwalm) Former Sen. John Kerry, left, talks with Sen. Jeff Flake, D-Mass., as they prepare to leave the Forbes 30 Under 30 Summit, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Boston. (AP Photo/Mary Schwalm) Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., and his wife Cheryl Flake arrive at the Forbes 30 Under 30 Summit, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Boston. (AP Photo/Mary Schwalm) RENO, Nev. (AP) - The Latest on Nevada Attorney General and GOP governor nominee Adam Laxalt's arrest for assaulting a police officer in Virginia more than 20 years ago (all times local): 4:40 p.m. Nevada's Republican candidate for governor says that if he could, he would "go back and knock some sense" into the "drunk teenager" he was more than 20 years ago when he was arrested for assaulting a police officer in Virginia. Adam Laxalt, Nevada's attorney general, released a statement to The Associated Press on Monday after records obtained by the Reno Gazette Journal show he was taken into custody for underage drinking in 1996. Nevada Democratic Party Chairman William McCurdy II is calling on Laxalt to release his bar association application and full criminal record following the newspaper's report. Laxalt is running for governor against Democrat Steve Sisolak. Sisolak campaign spokesman Gringsby Crawford declined to comment. File - In this Aug. 28, 2018 file photo, Nevada state Attorney General Adam Laxalt, center, meets with members of the Southern Hills Republican Women's Club in Henderson, Nev. The Republican gubernatorial candidate said Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018, he was a "reckless and foolish" teen when he was arrested for assaulting a police officer more than 20 years ago in Virginia. Records obtained by the Reno Gazette Journal from the city of Alexandria show the Nevada attorney general was taken into custody for underage drinking in 1996. (AP Photo/John Locher, File) Laxalt's campaign declined to comment on the request for release of his full criminal record. ___ 1:20 p.m. Democrats are calling on Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt to release his bar association application and full criminal record after the Republican gubernatorial nominee acknowledged he was a "reckless and foolish" teen when A 17-year-old Laxalt was drinking at a woman's house when officers were called, according to the report. After police entered the residence, Laxalt said he "reacted the wrong way" and tried to keep police from coming into the home. "Today, as a law enforcement officer, I understand they were just doing their jobs," he told the newspaper. That and other alcohol-related incidents prompted him to get sober, he said. Laxalt is facing Democrat Steve Sisolak in one of the most competitive, closely-watched gubernatorial races in the country. Nevada Democratic Party Chairman William McCurdy II demanded that Laxalt release his full bar application and full criminal record because of the newspaper report. MEXICO CITY (AP) - The Mexico City government has decided to remove bronze plaques at about five subway stops that commemorate former President Gustavo Diaz Ordaz, the man who allegedly ordered the 1968 massacre of students in Tlatelolco plaza. The decision was announced on Monday, the eve of the 50th anniversary of the massacre. Diaz Ordaz was president in 1969, when the subway opened. He allegedly ordered the student demonstrations crushed in 1968 so they wouldn't interfere with the Olympics held weeks later. It is not known exactly how many died. Mexico City Mayor Jose Ramon Amieva said the plaques were removed because they celebrated Diaz Ordaz' "cult of personality," not the subway itself. Diaz Ordaz was never tried for the killings. MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) - The Latest on Sen. Jeff Flake's visit to New England (all times local): 7:55 p.m. The Republican senator at the center of the Supreme Court debate is vowing to make sure the FBI does "a real investigation" into President Donald Trump's nominee. Arizona Sen. Jeff Flake spoke Monday as he trekked across New England while exploring a possible run for president. He told hundreds of young people at the Forbes Under 30 Summit in Boston, "It does us no good to have an investigation that just gives us more cover." In Manchester, New Hampshire, Flake was asked what would cause him to vote "no" on nominee Brett Kavanaugh. He pointed to "any evidence that corroborates" Kavanaugh's accuser's story of sexual assault. Kavanaugh has denied all accusations of sexual misconduct decades ago. Flake told reporters that "any nominee that lies to the committee, that is disqualifying." U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Arizona, talks with guests following an address in Manchester, N.H., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. Flake, days after a critical vote in support of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, made his second visit this year to New Hampshire. The visit will once again stoke suggestions that he might run against President Trump in 2020. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) ___ 11:50 a.m. Republican Sen. Jeff Flake is stoking new speculation about a possible presidential run as he emerges as a central figure in the explosive debate over President Donald Trump's Supreme Court pick. Flake is scheduled to speak in New Hampshire Monday. It's his second appearance this year in the state that hosts the nation's first presidential primary election. Flake single-handedly delayed Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation proceedings last week by insisting on an FBI investigation. He told CBS' "60 Minutes" Sunday that the conservative judge's nomination would be "over" if federal investigators determine he lied. In March, Flake told New Hampshire Republicans that someone needs to stop Trump in the 2020 presidential contest. He said he may run - either as a Republican or an independent - if no one else does. U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Arizona, shakes hands with a guest following an address in Manchester, N.H., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. Flake, days after a critical vote in support of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, made his second visit this year to New Hampshire. The visit will once again stoke suggestions that he might run against President Trump in 2020. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Arizona, addresses a gathering in Manchester, N.H., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. Flake, days after a critical vote in support of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, made his second visit this year to New Hampshire. The visit will once again stoke suggestions that he might run against President Trump in 2020. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., and his wife Cheryl Flake arrive at the Forbes 30 Under 30 Summit, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, in Boston. (AP Photo/Mary Schwalm) SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Preparing to leave office after four decades, California Gov. Jerry Brown exercised his final signatures and vetoes this weekend to put the closing imprimatur on a governing philosophy he's espoused during two separate eight-year stints. The actions, and the quirky statements that accompanied them, revealed the "paddle left, paddle right" governing approach of California's longest-serving governor and three-time presidential candidate. Brown pushed California to new frontiers of liberal policies and frustrated his Democratic allies by using his veto pen to pump the brakes. "16 years - and nearly 20,000 bills - later, the desk is clear. #Eureka," the 81-year-old wrote on Twitter alongside a video showing photos of him signing bills dating back to 1975. Eureka, an exclamation meaning "I found it," is California's official motto. Brown on Sunday further secured California's role as a progressive beacon by signing a tough law restoring net neutrality protections, inviting an immediate lawsuit from the Trump administration, and requiring companies to put women on their boards of directors. But he decided university health centers shouldn't be forced to sell abortion medications nor should San Francisco be allowed to open what could be the nation's first supervised drug injection site. In typical fashion, his actions made fellow Democrats both cheer and sigh. FILE -- in this Sept. 10, 2018 file photo, State Sen. Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles, right shakes hands with Calif., Gov. Jerry Brown after signed de Leon's environmental measure SB100, in Sacramento, Calif. Brown, who served as governor from 1975 until 1983, and was reelected in 2010, signed the last bill of his 16 years as California's governor Sunday Sept. 30, 2018. At left is Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, D-San Diego, who carried the bill in the Assembly. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli) "He will only give so much and then he's done," said Democratic Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, who saw several of her bills inspired by the #MeToo movement get vetoed. Altogether in 2018, Brown signed 1,016 bills and vetoed 201, according to his office. The veto rate of 16.5 percent was slightly higher than prior years. The terse statements announcing his vetoes or explaining his decision to sign a bill have become legendary in Sacramento. They explain his reasoning, often with acerbic wit, Latin phrases or biblical references tossed in. Some include themes he returns to often: Not every human failing needs to be fixed with a law. Expensive programs should be handled in budget negotiations. Some decisions are best made at the local level. Others are unique. On a law mandating that corporate boards include women, he noted that "many are not getting the message" and sent a copy to the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee. His missive came days after the committee examined accusations that Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh had sexually assaulted a high school classmate. Kavanagh denies the allegation. On a bill allowing certain big cities to allow 4 a.m. closing times, he wrote: "I believe we have enough mischief between midnight and 2 without adding two more hours of mayhem." The messages are "snippets of his intellect" that reflect Brown's preference for brevity, go beyond political messaging and put his action in the context of history, culture and morality, said Sen. Steve Glazer, a Democrat from the East Bay, who was Brown's political adviser and 2010 campaign manager. "It's a deeper dive that's not constrained by what is a Democrat or Republican philosophical view of the matter at hand," Glazer said. "And he definitely enjoys putting that personal touch on the matter." Gonzalez Fletcher said Brown pushes businesses with the environmental mandates that are close to his heart, so he's reluctant to push them further by signing the labor regulations she favors. She was especially surprised he vetoed a measure designed to address labor trafficking, which he said included provisions too burdensome for businesses. "He just I think ran out of patience and my bill happened to come on his desk late," Gonzalez Fletcher said. He also vetoed a bill she wrote prohibiting employers to require workers to sign mandatory arbitration agreements. Brown signed off in characteristic form. In a statement attached to the last bill he'll ever sign, he quoted Exodus' exhortation against charging interest of the poor. "From the time of Moses, usury has been condemned," he wrote. "Loans that exploit low income borrowers are especially abhorrent." He then closed with a look ahead to retirement on his family's ranch north of Sacramento, where he and his wife have built a home: "PS: And now onto the Promised Land--Colusa County!" FILE -- In this June 6, 1975 file photo California Gov. Jerry Brown, center, flanked by Lt. Gov. Mervyn Dymally, left, gives Democratic Assemblyman Richard Alatorre, a pat on the back after signing a landmark farm labor bill at the Capitol in Sacramento, Calif. Brown, who served as governor from 1975 until 1983, and was reelected in 2010, signed the last bill of his 16 years as California's governor Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018. (AP Photo/File) NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Democrat Senate candidate Phil Bredesen faced some backlash from a Tennessee crowd for once again declining to say how he would vote on Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Bredesen hosted a forum Monday in Chattanooga after his Republican opponent U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn declined to debate him. Instead, Blackburn opted to attend a fundraiser with President Donald Trump. Overall, the crowd applauded for the majority of Bredesen's answers to questions submitted by the audience. However, when pressed on Kavanaugh, a handful of members of the crowd booed as Bredesen said he is waiting on the results of the FBI investigation surrounding the allegations against Kavanaugh before making a decision. Bredesen, a former Tennessee governor, says judges should show proper ethics and temperament. Blackburn has said she supports Kavanaugh. LOS ANGELES (AP) - A health care company has agreed to pay $270 million to resolve allegations it provided inaccurate information to Medicare, federal prosecutors said Monday. DaVita Medical Holdings admitted to practices that caused incorrect diagnosis codes to be submitted in order to obtain inflated payments, according to the U.S. Justice Department. California-based HealthCare Partners, which DaVita acquired in 2012, shared the overpayments with its parent company, prosecutors said. In one instance, HealthCare Partners sent out improper guidance advising its physicians to use an improper diagnosis code for a particular spinal condition that yielded increased reimbursement. The settlement also resolves allegations made by a whistleblower that HealthCare Partners engaged in so-called "one-way" chart reviews in which it scoured its patients' medical records for diagnoses its providers may have failed to record. The company then submitted these "missed" diagnoses to be used in obtaining increased Medicare payments, prosecutors said. At the same time, officials said, the firm ignored inaccurate diagnosis codes that should have been deleted and that would have decreased Medicare reimbursement. Colorado-based DaVita, one of the largest dialysis and kidney care providers in the U.S., did not admit wrongdoing. "The settlement announced today reflects close cooperation with the government to address practices largely originating with HealthCare Partners," DaVita said in a statement. The settlement will be paid with escrow funds that DaVita required be set aside by the former owners of HealthCare Partners in 2012 during its acquisition, the statement said. FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) - The U.S. Supreme Court won't review an Obama-era action that put land around the Grand Canyon off-limits to new mining claims, ending the legal battle as environmentalists keep a close eye on actions by the Trump administration that they fear could lead to more access for the mining industry. The Obama administration put about 1,562 square miles (4,045 square kilometers) outside the boundaries of the national park off-limits to new hard rock mining claims until 2032. The 20-year ban was meant to slow a flurry of mining claims over concern that the Colorado River - a major water source serving 30 million people - could become contaminated and to allow for scientific studies. The mining industry asked the Supreme Court in March to review the ban, saying it was based on an unconstitutional provision of federal law. The high court on Monday declined the request, leaving the ban in place. "Clearly, we're disappointed," said Ashley Burke, a spokeswoman for the National Mining Association. "There continues to be great risk to our domestic supply chain thanks to unwarranted withdrawals like this." Burke said the association will continue advocating for land access. The American Exploration and Mining Association also challenged the ban. Environmentalists hailed the court's decision but are worried the ban could be undone administratively. File - In this Jan. 9, 2012 file photo, then Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, center, standing in front of a map of the Grand Canyon, is applauded after announcing a twenty year ban on new mining claims near the Grand Canyon in Washington. The U.S. Supreme Court has denied review of an Obama-era action that put nearly 1 million acres near the Grand Canyon off-limit to new mining claims. Environmentalists hailed the decision Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, but say they're worried the Trump administration is working to end the ban administratively. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File) The U.S. Department of Commerce is investigating the link between U.S. national security and uranium imports at the request of two uranium mining companies, Energy Fuels Resources Inc. and UR-Energy Inc. The companies have asked the government to impose a quota on imports that would preserve one-quarter of the U.S. market for domestic uranium and for a "Buy America" policy for government agencies that use uranium. The public comment period ended last week. A separate report to President Donald Trump and others on critical minerals is due in November. Uranium recently was added to the list. "We're very relieved and happy to see the Supreme Court decision, but it's a multi-faceted issue," said Amber Reimondo, energy program director for the Flagstaff-based environmental group, the Grand Canyon Trust. "Until we know that the Grand Canyon isn't being considered as a result of any Commerce decisions, then we'll be alert." Much of the land in the withdrawal area is north of the Grand Canyon and has some of the richest deposits of uranium ore in the U.S. Republicans in Congress, and some counties in Arizona and Utah said cutting off access eliminates hundreds of jobs in a remote area and puts the nation's security at risk. No one is mining uranium in the withdrawal area now but Energy Fuels is waiting for uranium prices to rise to restart a mine about six miles (10 kilometers) from the canyon's South Rim in the national forest. The ban didn't affect the roughly 3,000 mining claims that existed before it went into effect, which federal officials say could result in less than a dozen mines if the companies that own them can prove a sufficient quality and quantity of the mineral resource. Scientists have said they have not had the money needed to fully study the impact of uranium mining on water resources. CHICAGO (AP) - A Northwestern University neuroscience graduate was sentenced to three years in prison for pushing another man off a Chicago subway platform and onto train tracks. Chad Estep pleaded guilty last week to aggravated battery after a more serious charge of attempted murder was dropped. Estep was accused of approaching 46-year-old Ben Benedict from behind on a downtown subway station platform on Aug. 1, 2017. Prosecutors say Estep pushed Benedict onto the tracks with both hands, knocking him close to the electrified third rail. Prosecutors allege the 34-year-old data analyst tried to block Benedict from getting back onto the platform and stop other commuters from helping him. Benedict climbed onto the platform seconds before a train arrived. The motive for the attack is unclear. The men didn't know each other. Estep entered the plea last Wednesday and was taken into custody. MARIETTA, Ohio (AP) - Ohio's major party governor candidates both said Monday that they'd veto right-to-work legislation and foster a civil, bipartisan spirit in Ohio government. And that's about where the agreements ended between Republican Attorney General Mike DeWine and Democrat Richard Cordray, the former federal consumer watchdog, during their second televised debate. The two are locked in a tight, expensive race this fall to succeed Republican Gov. John Kasich, who's term-limited. DeWine said he would veto right-to-work legislation requiring public employee unions to get annual permission from workers to withhold dues from paychecks. "We do not need the divisiveness of a fight like this that would take place," DeWine said. "We have a great opportunity for this state to move forward, and I'm very optimistic about where we're going, but we can only do it if we concentrate on our major challenges." Cordray said he'd also block such a bill, aligning both candidates with Kasich, who's held off the state's right-to-work advocates for eight years with his opposition. Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray, left, and Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine shake hands before a debate at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) But Cordray said he disagrees with DeWine's stance that such a proposal should be put to voters as a ballot issue. He said voters turned back limits on collective bargaining rights from unionized public employees in 2011. "The people of this state are very fair," he said. "They understand that we should have good working conditions and fair working conditions for people who work hard every day." Despite pointed jabs during both debates and in their television ads, the candidates pledged to work across political lines to get things done for Ohio - and they said civility is important. Cordray said when he was Ohio's state treasurer he, as a Democrat, worked well on budget issues with the Republican-controlled Legislature during the national financial crisis. "We can do this together, but we have to maintain the right tone in our campaigns as well," he said. "People have to tell the truth. People can't lie their way to public office in Ohio. That's not the right answer." DeWine, a former congressman and U.S. senator, pointed to his work across party lines from Washington to Columbus. "I'm a problem-solver, but I don't solve the problems by myself," he said. "If you look at the rape kits, I pulled a group together - I don't know whether they were Democrats or Republicans - but I pulled people together." DeWine appeared to spend the evening continually returning to an upbeat tone, smiling more than in the first debate and talking about his excitement about what his policies can do for Ohio. After the event, he told reporters he found the debate "fun." "It is, to me, remarkable that Richard Cordray cannot get through his opening statement without spending most of his opening statement throwing punches," DeWine told reporters. "As I travel around the state, people tell me, 'We're tired of people throwing punches and, really, we want you to tell us what you're going to do.'" Cordray, a five-time Jeopardy champion, told reporters that he also enjoyed the debate. But he made no apologies for his efforts to hold DeWine accountable for his record. "I don't think it's uncivil to contrast our records, as long as it's truthful," Cordray said. "If we can't contrast our records, then what information do voters have to go on?" He said people "should expect some jostling" in politics: "These things really matter. I'm passionate about that. I'm not going to pull my punches." Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine, right, and Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray, center, listen to a question from the audience during a debate at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) The audience is seen during a debate between Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray and Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine during a debate with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray during a debate with Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray speaks during a debate with Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine speaks during a debate with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray speaks during a debate with during a, Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine speaks during a debate with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine, right, speaks as Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray listens during a debate at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray, left speaks as Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine listens during a debate at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray, left, and Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine wave to the crowd before a debate at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon, Pool) Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray, left, and his wife, Peggy, enter the spin room following a debate with Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine, at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon) Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine, right, and his wife, Fran, enter the spin room following a debate with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernonl) Ohio Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine answers questions from the media in the spin room following a debate with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Richard Cordray at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon) TOKYO (AP) - North Korea has warned Washington that a declaration ending the Korean War shouldn't be seen as a bargaining chip in denuclearization talks. The North's state media claimed Pyongyang has taken what it called significant measures to end hostile relations between the two countries. But it said the U.S. is "trying to subdue" it through sanctions - a clear call for Washington to lift sanctions if it wants further progress in their stalled nuclear negotiations. The commentary Tuesday by the North's official news agency said a declaration replacing a 65-year-old armistice to formally end the war "is not just a gift from a man to another," and added, "it can never be a bargaining chip for getting the DPRK denuclearized." HERSHEY, Pa. (AP) - Pennsylvania's Democratic governor and his Republican challenger met in their only formal appearance together in the fall campaign, in which moderator Alex Trebek of "Jeopardy!" fame needled the candidates on their mudslinging and pressed them on their perceived exaggerations. The event, billed by Trebek as conversational and not a debate, showed that Trebek had read up on Pennsylvania's issues and politics in drafting questions for Gov. Tom Wolf and GOP nominee Scott Wagner. But it also led to unexpected moments at Monday night's annual Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry dinner in Hershey, such as Trebek chastising policymakers broadly for "shortchanging education in this state for decades." The nearly hourlong event attended by about 1,700 people ended with Wagner pacing the stage during his closing statement, brushing off Trebek's entreaty to wrap it up and declaring that he'd change his name to Tom Wolf "if I don't do anything in four years" if elected governor. Trebek also touched on the death penalty, imposing a severance tax on natural gas drilling and gerrymandering congressional districts, while the men jousted over who can better deal with the state's huge pension debt. At one point, Trebek asked Wolf and Wagner - seated on stools several feet apart - if they'd ever said anything about their opponent that they knew was untrue. Republican Scott Wagner, right, and Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf take part in a gubernatorial debate in Hershey, Pa., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. The debate is hosted by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) "Not that I remember, no," Wolf responded, drawing laughter from the audience. Wolf went on to contend that neither he nor Wagner have said things they knew to be untrue about each other, "but we certainly disagree." When it came to Wagner, Trebek took on the Republican's politically unrealistic pledge to pour another $1 billion into public schools in one year. But first, Trebek recounted a list of critical statements Wagner's made of public schools and teachers during his campaign for governor and four years as a gatecrashing conservative in the state Senate. "Now it seems to me, you have done a full 180," Trebek told Wagner. Wagner shot back by saying "here's a fact" and accused Wolf of not putting any new money into public schools for the first three years of his term because he had not signed an actual spending bill until 2018 amid thorny budget fights with the Republican-controlled Legislature. That, however, ignored the fact that Wolf had agreed to spending bills passed by the Legislature in 2016 and 2017, but chose to let them lapse into law while he and lawmakers tussled over how to scrape up the money to pay for it. Wolf is seeking a second term in the Nov. 6 election. Wagner served four years in the state Senate, resigning in June, and runs a $75 million waste-hauling business. The night was to be the candidates' only formal appearance together this fall, as Wolf runs a low-key campaign, nurses a big lead in independent polls and barely acknowledges that he even has an opponent while he works the levers of government. Wolf also has held a huge fundraising lead over Wagner, who is largely self-funding his campaign. Wagner, meanwhile, has accused Wolf of rejecting more than a dozen debate invitations from newspapers, TV stations and others. At one point, Trebek suggested that Wagner hadn't been serious several months ago when he suggested the two candidates meet for a debate in each of Pennsylvania's 67 counties. Wagner insisted that he had been serious. Wolf countered that more debates effectively are unnecessary because voters are reading and listening to the media's coverage of the issues. "I think people are listening," Wolf said, turning to Wagner. "They don't like what they're hearing from you, but they're listening." Alex Trebek, left, moderates a gubernatorial debate between Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf, center, and Republican Scott Wagner in Hershey, Pa., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. The debate is hosted by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf, left, and Republican Scott Wagner take part in a gubernatorial debate in Hershey, Pa., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. The debate is hosted by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) Moderator Alex Trebek speaks during a gubernatorial debate between Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf and Republican Scott Wagner in Hershey, Pa., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. The debate is hosted by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) Republican Scott Wagner, right, shake hands with moderator Alex Trebek, left, as Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf, center, looks on at a gubernatorial debate in Hershey, Pa., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. The debate is hosted by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) Moderator Alex Trebek, center, speaks during a gubernatorial debate between Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf, right, and Republican Scott Wagner in Hershey, Pa., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. The debate is hosted by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf, left, and Republican Scott Wagner shake hands at a gubernatorial debate in Hershey, Pa., Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. The debate is hosted by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - A former southern Oregon property owner has been charged with assault on a federal officer after authorities say an FBI agent sent to the property was shot from a booby-trapped wheelchair. The Oregonian/OregonLive reports that authorities responded to the home in Williams on Sept. 7 at the request of a lawyer tasked with selling the property. A criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Medford says officers found multiple traps and that the agent was wounded in the leg when he entered the home. Authorities say the makeshift weapons were created by Gregory Rodvelt, who was forced to forfeit his property as part of an elder abuse case. The Mail Tribune reports Rodvelt is in Arizona's Maricopa County Jail, where he's in the midst of an assault trial in a separate case. Court records show he has refused a court-appointed defense lawyer. PALU, Indonesia (AP) - The Latest on a powerful earthquake and tsunami that hit part of central Indonesia (all times local): 5:50 a.m. Australia's government says it will send more than 50 medical professionals to Indonesia to help with the aftermath of a devastating earthquake and tsunami as part of a 5 million Australian dollar ($3.6 million) aid package. Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne told reporters in Washington: "We will be working very closely with the Indonesian government to make sure that the support we are providing is highly targeted." She says: "Australia is considering further support for the disaster, with the death toll expected to rise and millions affected by the crisis." Payne says she has been in contact with her Indonesian counterpart Retno Marsudi and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison is continuing talks with President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo about possible further support. Rescuers carry a body bag containing the remains of an earthquake victim through a neighborhood flattened by Friday's earthquake in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Desperation was visible everywhere Tuesday among victims receiving little aid in areas heavily damaged by a massive earthquake and tsunami, four days after the disaster devastated parts of Indonesia's central Sulawesi island. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) ___ 12:50 a.m. The U.N. says its humanitarian office is reporting that "needs are vast" following the earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia, with people urgently requiring shelter, clean water, food, fuel and emergency medical care. U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said Tuesday that U.N. and relief agencies are on the ground or en route. He said the agencies are working closely with the government to provide technical support. Haq told reporters at U.N. headquarters in New York that water is the main issue because most of the water supply infrastructure has been damaged. He says the Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has asked the U.N. children's agency, UNICEF, to send social workers to the affected area to support children who are alone or became separated from their families. Haq says the World Health Organization is warning that a lack of shelter and damaged water sanitation facilities could lead to outbreaks of communicable diseases. ___ 2:50 p.m. Indonesia's disaster agency says the death toll from an earthquake and tsunami disaster on a central island is now 1,234. Agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho updated the figure at a news conference in Jakarta on Tuesday afternoon. The magnitude 7.5 earthquake and the tsunami it generated struck Palu and nearby areas on central Sulawesi island. Nugroho said 799 people are severely injured. He said the communities of Sigi and Balaroa have not been counted yet, meaning the toll is likely to rise. ___ 2 p.m. One of the first evacuation flights from a quake-devastated region of central Indonesia has landed in East Java. The C130 military transport aircraft that arrived at a military airport Tuesday carried dozens of people, including injured victims needing further care and treatment. It left from the city of Palu, where hundreds of people are waiting still to be evacuated. Andi Wijaya, the airport base commander in East Java, says seven aircraft were ready to evacuate but crews had to be summoned to prepare for the flights. The situation is increasingly desperate in the severely damaged areas of central Sulawesi island where people are running short of food, fuel and other essentials. Friday's magnitude 7.5 earthquake and the tsunami it generated caused at least 840 deaths but some areas outside Palu have yet to be reached. ___ 12:50 p.m. Australia's government has given financial aid to help victims of Indonesia's earthquake and tsunami and was talking with Indonesian authorities about sending more. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said 500,000 Australian dollars ($360,000) in initial funding was given to the Indonesian Red Cross for the most obvious emergency aid needs, such as tarpaulins. Australia's ambassador was consulting the Indonesian government on more support. Morrison told reporters in the west coast city of Perth that Australia was looking at how to best fit the needs of its neighbors in their time of need and that Australia's support wouldn't only be in the short-term. Indonesia's president has authorized the acceptance of international help, with generators, heavy equipment and tents among the most-needed items. Officials have said the European Union, United States and China have also offered help. ___ 12:45 p.m. Residents in the disaster-devastated Indonesian city of Donggala say people there are hungry and the central government must urgently get aid there. The city was among those hit in last week's earthquake and tsunami, but aid has been slow to arrive due to the difficulty in reaching it. Survivors in Donggala say they worry they have been forgotten as attention has been focused on the city of Palu, which has been easier to reach. With supplies running out, local administrator Kasman Lassa says people were taking food and other essentials from shops Tuesday. Lassa says: "Everyone is hungry and they want to eat after several days of not eating." He says people going into shops "should take only cake, bread, rice. Do not take chairs, or television. Again, for cake, bread, rice, they can take it. The store owner also allows them to take food." The confirmed death toll of 844 is expected to rise as authorities reach areas that were cut off by the disaster ___ 10:20 a.m. Two shallow earthquakes have occurred near the eastern Indonesian island of Sumba, but no tsunami warning was issued. The temblors Tuesday occurred nearly 1,600 kilometers (990 miles) south of the area heavily damaged by a powerful earthquake and tsunami Friday on central Sulawesi island. The U.S. Geological Survey said the first quake was magnitude 5.9 and the second one about 15 minutes later was magnitude 6.0. State news agency Antara reported that one bridge was damaged in Wula Waijelu, but there were no other immediate reports of damage. About 750,000 people live on the island, located in eastern Indonesia in East Nusa Tenggara province near East Timor. Indonesia is a vast archipelago stretching a similar distance to that between New York and London. It is located on the seismically active "Ring of Fire" and is frequently struck by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. ___ 8:50 a.m. Desperation is visible everywhere in areas heavily damaged by an earthquake and tsunami, four days after the disaster devastated parts of Indonesia's central Sulawesi island. Signs propped along roads read "We Need Food" and "We Need Support," while traffic was snarled by people waiting for fuel. The confirmed death toll of 844 is expected to rise as authorities reach areas that were cut off by the disaster. The magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck at dusk Friday and generated a tsunami said to have been as high as 6 meters (20 feet) in places. Search-and-rescue teams combed destroyed homes and buildings for any trapped survivors, but they needed more heavy equipment to clear the rubble. Nearly 50,000 people have been displaced from their homes in Palu alone, and hospitals were overwhelmed. A woman walks past the wreckage of cars which was flattened by Friday's earthquake in Balaroa neighborhood in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Home to hundreds of families, the neighborhood was once a patchwork of asphalted streets and tidy houses. Now it looks as if it was picked up and thrown back to earth with vicious force. Four days after the earthquake and tsunami hit the Indonesian city of Palu, this devastated neighborhood has received no government help and anger is simmering among its residents. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) A ship rests near houses after it was swept ashore during Friday's tsunami at a neighborhood in Donggala, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. A magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck at dusk on Friday, Sept. 28, generating the tsunami said to have been as high as 6 meters (20 feet) in places. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) Sa'adon Lawira holds his grandson's cat whose cry helped him finding his body which was buried under the rubble of the family's house in Balaroa neighborhood in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Home to hundreds of families, the neighborhood was once a patchwork of asphalted streets and tidy houses. Now it looks as if it was picked up and thrown back to earth with vicious force. Four days after the earthquake and tsunami hit the Indonesian city of Palu, this devastated neighborhood has received no government help and anger is simmering among its residents. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) A woman makes her way through the rubble of houses in Balaroa neighborhood in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Home to hundreds of families, the neighborhood was once a patchwork of asphalted streets and tidy houses. Now it looks as if it was picked up and thrown back to earth with vicious force. Four days after the earthquake and tsunami hit the Indonesian city of Palu, this devastated neighborhood has received no government help and anger is simmering among its residents. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) SOUTHAVEN, Miss. (AP) - President Donald Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi on Tuesday by mocking a woman who has claimed she was sexually assaulted by Trump's Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago. The audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Christine Blasey Ford's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She testified that Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Ford's allegations. "How did you get home? 'I don't remember,'" Trump said at the rally in Southaven. "How did you get there? 'I don't remember.' Where is the place? 'I don't remember.' How many years ago was it? 'I don't know. I don't know. I don't know.'" Imitating her, he added: "But I had one beer - that's the only thing I remember." It marked the sharpest criticism by Trump of Ford since she came forward publicly with the allegation last month. He had previously called Ford a "very credible witness." The president was in Mississippi on Tuesday looking to use his influence to sway the outcome of a low-profile election that could tip the balance of the Senate. President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) As Republicans fight headwinds ahead of the Nov. 6 midterm election, Trump sought to rally his supporters behind GOP Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, who was appointed to fill the seat of Republican Thad Cochran, who retired in April. She faces three candidates - Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bernard Bartee - in next month's special election for the remainder of the two-year term. "She's always had my back," Trump said. "She's always had your back. And a vote for Cindy is a vote for me." But Trump spent much of the rally lamenting the treatment of Kavanaugh by Democrats, whose attacks he said had taken their toll on the judge's family. "A man's life is in tatters," he said. Of Democrats, he added, "These are really evil people." Some Republicans and White House allies have suggested the allegations against Kavanaugh can be potent political fodder in the run-up to Nov. 6, animating GOP voters who have so far lacked the same motivation to head to the polls as their Democratic counterparts. Republican officials and the White House expect Hyde-Smith's race to go to a runoff under the state's jungle election rules that force a showdown between the top two finishers if no candidate wins at least 50 percent of the vote on Election Day. With Republicans defending majorities in the House and Senate next month, officials cast Trump's visit as an attempt to get ahead of a potentially perilous situation. Officials said Trump is seeking to boost Hyde-Smith as close as possible to the 50 percent threshold and lend momentum for a possible runoff. Depending on how Republicans perform on Nov. 6, the eyes of the nation could fall on a Nov. 27 Mississippi runoff in what could become an expensive and high-profile race to determine control of the Senate. "Your vote in this election will decide which party controls the United States Senate," Trump said. A vocal minority of the crowd Tuesday backed the other conservative in the race, McDaniel, a state senator, and booed Hyde-Smith when Trump introduced her. They launched into occasional chants of "We want Chris." Earlier Tuesday, Trump told electrical contractors gathered in Philadelphia that his economic policies would translate into more jobs for their ranks as he highlighted a new trade deal among the U.S., Mexico and Canada. "We're in the midst of a manufacturing renaissance - something which nobody thought you'd hear," Trump said in a speech to the National Electrical Contractors Association Convention a day after celebrating the new North American trade deal. In fact, North America already is a manufacturing powerhouse. The United States ranks No. 2 in the world behind China in manufacturing output. Mexico ranks 11th and Canada 13th, according to United Nations numbers pulled together by the Brookings Institution. Trump calls the new trade agreement USMCA, for U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. "Like YMCA or U.S. Marine Corps with an A at the end," he explained. He said he doesn't want to use the previous name, NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, which he contends cost American jobs and railed against during his 2016 presidential campaign. The new trade deal still must be approved by Congress. "We are finally rebuilding our country, and we are doing it with American aluminum, American steel and with our great electrical contractors," he said. Trump said the strong economy "means more jobs for our great electrical contractors." Before departing the White House, Trump tweeted: "THE ONLY REASON TO VOTE FOR A DEMOCRAT IS IF YOU'RE TIRED OF WINNING!" President Donald Trump arrives to speak at a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump arrives to speak at a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump arrives to speak at a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Attendees at a President Donald Trump rally pose for a photograph prior to the start of the event, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis) Rep. Trent Kelly, R-Miss., left, watches as President Donald Trump shakes hands with Gov. Phil Bryant, R- Miss., after arriving for a campaign rally in Southaven, Miss., at Memphis International Airport Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Memphis, Tenn. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump puts on a hard hat given to him before speaking to the National Electrical Contractors Association Convention at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump speaks to the National Electrical Contractors Association Convention at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump speaks at the National Electrical Contractors Association convention in Philadelphia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) President Donald Trump pumps his fist after putting on a hard hat given to him before speaking to the National Electrical Contractors Association Convention at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump speaks to the National Electrical Contractors Association Convention at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump speaks at the National Electrical Contractors Association convention in Philadelphia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) President Donald Trump speaks at the National Electrical Contractors Association convention in Philadelphia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) HOUSTON (AP) - Several Houston schools with some of the largest populations of at-risk students defied expectations in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and showed improvement in state scores. It's a feat attributed to perseverance in the face of adversity and changes to the state accountability ratings that put more emphasis on progress. The Category 4 hurricane hit in August 2017, causing an estimated $125 billion in damage in Texas and killing 36 people in the Houston area. State records show about 10 percent of Houston Independent School District students were displaced by the storm, but not all schools were excused from state testing ramifications. Some were on the hook for their academic performance despite plenty of their own storm-related disruptions. But they made notable gains in the new school ratings system. In this Aug. 30, 2018 photo, Lorena Alaniz, a senior at Wisdom High School in Houston, reads a textbook in her Spanish class. Alaniz maintained a 3.5 GPA despite having to work part-time to help her family rebuild their flooded home after Hurricane Harvey. Wisdom and other Houston schools defied expectations and showed improvement in state scores, a feat attributed to perseverance in the face of adversity, and changes to the state accountability ratings that put more emphasis on progress. (AP Photo/Juan Lozano) NEW YORK (AP) - Scientists from the United States, Canada and France won the Nobel Prize in physics Tuesday for revolutionizing the use of lasers in research, finding ways to make them deliver more powerful flashes of light and even to act like tiny tweezers. Their work paved the way for laser eye surgery to improve vision and studies that can manipulate cells and their innards. Two winners also made history for other reasons. Arthur Ashkin, the American who developed "optical tweezers," became the oldest Nobel Prize laureate at age 96. And Donna Strickland, of the University of Waterloo in Canada, became only the third woman to win the physics Nobel, and the first in 55 years. Strickland and the third winner, Frenchman Gerard Mourou of the Ecole Polytechnique and University of Michigan, developed a way to generate high-intensity, ultra-short bursts of laser light. They share half of the 9 million kronor ($1.01 million) prize while the other half goes to Ashkin, who worked at Bell Labs in New Jersey. Ashkin said he was pleasantly surprised when he got the 5 a.m. call from Sweden. "I'm very old and had given up worrying about things like Nobel Prizes," he told The Associated Press. In this 1988 image provided by Nokia Bell Labs shows Arthur Ashkin at the lab in Holmdel, N.J. American Arthur Ashkin, Canadian Donna Strickland, and French scientist Gerard Mourou won the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physics announced Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, for work in laser physics. Ashkin, entered the record books of the Nobel Prizes by becoming the oldest laureate at age 96. (Nokia Bell Labs via AP) He said he's working on solar energy research at his New Jersey home. These days, though, scientific research is "a hobby more or less," he told the official website of the Nobel Prize. "I tell my wife that's the only thing I'm really good at." The work of the three winners constitutes "fundamental breakthroughs in physics that led to tools that are now being used all over science," said Robbert Dijkgraaf, director of the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey. Sweden's Royal Academy of Sciences said Ashkin's development of optical tweezers that can grab tiny particles such as viruses without damaging them realized "an old dream of science fiction," using the tiny amount of pressure exerted by beams of light to move objects. That means lasers can be used to push, pull or hold in place tiny objects like atoms, molecules and living cells. Optical tweezers "created entirely new opportunities for observing and controlling the machinery of life," the Nobel committee said. "You see the thing work and your heart stops. The hairs stand up on the back of your neck," said David Grier of New York University, who uses optical tweezers in his research. With the ability to manipulate tiny cells like sperm and eggs, optical tweezers are used in research involving in vitro fertilization, Grier said. They can also be used to grab and stretch cells, and so distinguish between normal and cancerous cells, he said. On an even smaller scale, they can be used to study how proteins interact with other molecules in the body, to unfold individual proteins and to study traits like how much torque they exert while rotating. And they can help give insights into how disease causes trouble by interfering with proteins that haul molecular cargo within a cell, said Arne Gennerich of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx. Working together, Strickland and Mourou helped develop a way to produce very brief and intense laser pulses that have broad industrial and medical applications, including laser eye surgery and highly precise machine cutting. The academy said their 1985 article on the technique was "revolutionary." "With the technique we have developed, laser power has been increased about a million times, maybe even a billion," Mourou said in a video statement released by Ecole Polytechnique. Strickland's award was the first Nobel Prize in physics to go to a woman since 1963, when it was won by Maria Goeppert-Mayer; the only other woman to win for physics was Marie Curie in 1903. "Obviously, we need to celebrate women physicists because we're out there. And hopefully in time, it'll start to move forward at a faster rate," Strickland said in a phone call with the academy after the prize announcement. On winning the Nobel, she told the AP: "I just find the whole thing surreal." Michael Moloney, CEO of the American Institute of Physics, praised all the laureates. "It is also a personal delight to see Dr. Strickland break the 55-year hiatus since a woman has been awarded a Nobel Prize in physics," Moloney said. He credited the work of all three with "expanding what is possible at the extremes of time, space and forms of matter." On Monday, American James Allison and Japan's Tasuku Honjo won the Nobel medicine prize for groundbreaking work in fighting cancer with the body's own immune system. The chemistry prize will be announced Wednesday, followed by the peace prize on Friday. The economics prize, which is not technically a Nobel, will be announced Oct. 8. ___ Heintz reported from Moscow. Associated Press writers David Keyton in Stockholm, Samuel Petrequin in Paris, Frank Jordans in Berlin and Bruce Shipkowski in Trenton, New Jersey, contributed to this report. French scientist Gerard Mourou poses in his laboratory at the Ecole Polytechnique in Palaiseau, south of Paris, Tuesday, Oct.2, 2018. Three scientists from the United States, Canada and France won the Nobel Prize in Physics on Tuesday for work with lasers described as revolutionary and bringing science fiction into reality. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena) Noble Prize winner Donna Strickland smiles as she receives a standing ovation before speaking to the media during a press conference regarding her prestigious award in Waterloo, Ontario, on Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Scientists from the United States, Canada and France won the Nobel Prize in physics Tuesday for revolutionizing the use of lasers in research, finding ways to make them deliver more powerful flashes of light and even to act like tiny tweezers. (Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press via AP) This undated photo provided by the University of Waterloo shows Canadian professor Donna Strickland. American Arthur Ashkin, Canadian Strickland, and French scientist Gerard Mourou won the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physics announced Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, for work in laser physics. (University of Waterloo/The Canadian Press via AP) French scientist Gerard Mourou holds a press conference at the Ecole Polytechnique in Palaiseau, south of Paris, Tuesday, Oct.2, 2018. Three scientists from the United States, Canada and France won the Nobel Prize in Physics on Tuesday for work with lasers described as revolutionary and bringing science fiction into reality. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena) The Nobel Prize laureates for physics 2018 shown on the screen from left, Arthur Ashkin of the United States, Gerard Mourou of France and Donna Strickland of Canada during the announcement at the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in Stockholm, Sweden, Tuesday Oct. 2, 2018. The three scientists from the United States, France and Canada have been awarded the Nobel Prize in physics for advances in laser physics. (Hanna Franzen/TT via AP) French scientist Gerard Mourou poses in his laboratory at the Ecole Polytechnique in Palaiseau, south of Paris, Tuesday, Oct.2, 2018. Three scientists from the United States, Canada and France won the Nobel Prize in Physics on Tuesday for work with lasers described as revolutionary and bringing science fiction into reality. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena) CAIRO (AP) - Abdullah Morsi, the youngest son of Egypt's jailed former Islamist President Mohamed Morsi, is campaigning for better treatment for his father. Morsi, whose divisive year in power ended with a military ouster in 2013, has been held in isolation and Abdullah says he isn't receiving proper health care. Once a month, Abdullah waits outside Cairo's notorious Tora prison for hours, standing without shade under the blazing Egyptian sun for a chance to see his father. And almost every time, for five years, he is denied. The family says the 67-year-old Morsi is suffering from ill health due to harsh conditions, including years of solitary confinement. Abdullah has told the AP that Morsi has "no idea what's going on in the country since he was arrested, they don't allow him newspapers." In this Sept. 30, 2018 photo, Abdullah Morsi, the youngest son of Egypt's jailed former Islamist President Mohamed Morsi, sits in front of a framed image of his father that was printed on a flag during the 2013 Rabaah al-Adawiya sit-in, at his home in Cairo, Egypt. Abdullah is campaigning for more access to and better treatment for his father. The former president has been held for years in isolation and Abdullah says he is suffering from poor health. (AP Photo/Brian Rohan) In this Sept. 30, 2018 photo, Abdullah Morsi, the youngest son of Egypt's jailed former Islamist President Mohamed Morsi, sits at his home in Cairo, Egypt. Abdullah and his family have launched a campaign to try to gain more access to their father, who has made only rare court appearances since he was overthrown by Egypt's current president, Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, and who they say is suffering ill health due to harsh conditions. Meanwhile, a group of British parliamentarians have been denied requests to review the conditions of his imprisonment. (AP Photo/Brian Rohan) PALU, Indonesia (AP) - Home to hundreds of families, the Balaroa section of Indonesia's Palu city was once a patchwork of asphalted streets and tidy houses dominated by a golden domed mosque. Now it looks as if it was picked up and thrown back to earth with vicious force. Four days after a powerful earthquake and tsunami hit Palu and other parts of Sulawesi island, killing more than 1,200 people, the devastated community of Balaroa has received no government help and anger is simmering among its residents. A handful of disaster personnel arrived in the neighborhood Tuesday morning to survey the damage. A lone backhoe began clearing a path into the jumble of twisted buildings. An official visiting from another part of Indonesia that has migrants in Balaroa said it had been "blended." What were once streets looked like rolling hills. Cars sat meters (yards) above the ground, perched on eruptions of asphalt and concrete. Other vehicles stood upright, half buried. Photos, books, clothing and other belongings were strewn everywhere. Surreally, surrounding neighborhoods were largely intact. Residents said their shattered houses had moved by tens of meters. Some of them worked under a boiling sun with sledgehammers and shovels to break up rubble covering victims. In another corner of the neighborhood, a religious group said it had recovered 29 bodies in the past three days. Abdullah Sidik, limping with an injured leg, said he was heading for evening prayers when the magnitude 7.5 quake struck just after 6 p.m. Friday and rushed back home to find his wife and daughters. A woman makes her way through the rubble of houses in Balaroa neighborhood in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Home to hundreds of families, the neighborhood was once a patchwork of asphalted streets and tidy houses. Now it looks as if it was picked up and thrown back to earth with vicious force. Four days after the earthquake and tsunami hit the Indonesian city of Palu, this devastated neighborhood has received no government help and anger is simmering among its residents. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) "The earth was pushing everything up," he said. "In that moment, I was flailing around and was hit from behind by a concrete wall. Then I couldn't do anything. I couldn't move and I lost my wife and daughters." "I hope we can get aid from the government. Please pay attention to us. Palu is part of Indonesia. It feels like a dead city," Sidik said. "I want to bury my wife and children. Please help me find them inside," he said. Residents crowded around a team of Associated Press reporters, loudly voicing their complaints. Some had heard cries for help rising from beneath the rubble for two days. Now there is silence. There'd been nothing from the government, they said, no food, no water, no medical assistance, no search and rescue effort. Sa'Adon Lawira, cradling a kitten whose cries had led him to his dead grandchild, was angry that search and rescue efforts in the days since the quake have focused on places such as a hotel where tourists were staying. "Why did the search and rescue agency and others prioritize the search for victims in hotels?" he said, holding back tears as he spoke. "Neighborhoods like this should take precedence because the bodies of residents are buried, but there are no rescuers who have searched for them." Because of its location on the "Pacific Ring of Fire," Indonesia is prone to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions and is well versed in responding to disasters. A massive earthquake off Sumatra island in 2004 caused a tsunami that killed 230,000 people around the region, the majority of them in the Indonesian province of Aceh. That was the last time the country had declared a national disaster. The Palu earthquake and tsunami has not been declared the same, but in a rare move, Indonesia's government has appealed for international assistance, showing how hard-pressed it is to deal with the disaster. The area's remoteness is one of the big challenges for the humanitarian effort. Disaster officials are uncertain how many people are buried in Balaroa. Residents gave varying figures - 50, 100, hundreds. Numerous children are believed to be buried in the neighborhood's collapsed mosque because a Quran recitation group for children was being held there before evening prayers. "Seeing the ground upside down, I knew my children couldn't survive," said Agus, whose daughters aged 3 and 13 were at the Quran recital. "The mosque collapsed and went down inside the earth. It shifted at least 30 meters (100 feet) from where it originally was." He was at home when the quake struck but couldn't get out because "the earth was moving like a wave." "It was moving so fast and trapped everyone inside it," said Agus, who uses one name. "Buildings collapsed, houses broken, I just cannot explain it. Cars, everything buried under there." Kawadi Razak, the chief of Sulawesi's Sopeng district, who is connected to Balaroa because about 100 people from Sopeng had migrated there and some are among the missing, said the neighborhood was home to more than 2,000 people. "They have to speed up the aid," he said. "I saw how emotional people are here when I distributed some food. Everyone scrambled and almost fought each other." ___ Associated Press journalists Niniek Karmini, Fadlan Syam and Dita Alangkara contributed to this report. Sa'adon Lawira holds his grandson's cat whose cry helped him finding his body which was buried under the rubble of the family's house in Balaroa neighborhood in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Home to hundreds of families, the neighborhood was once a patchwork of asphalted streets and tidy houses. Now it looks as if it was picked up and thrown back to earth with vicious force. Four days after the earthquake and tsunami hit the Indonesian city of Palu, this devastated neighborhood has received no government help and anger is simmering among its residents. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) A man walks in Balaroa neighborhood which was flattened by Friday's earthquake in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Home to hundreds of families, the neighborhood was once a patchwork of asphalted streets and tidy houses. Now it looks as if it was picked up and thrown back to earth with vicious force. Four days after the earthquake and tsunami hit the Indonesian city of Palu, this devastated neighborhood has received no government help and anger is simmering among its residents. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) Sa'adon Lawira holds his grandson's cat whose miauw helped him finding his body which was buried under the rubble of the family's house in Balaroa neighborhood in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Home to hundreds of families, the neighborhood was once a patchwork of asphalted streets and tidy houses. Now it looks as if it was picked up and thrown back to earth with vicious force. Four days after the earthquake and tsunami hit the Indonesian city of Palu, this devastated neighborhood has received no government help and anger is simmering among its residents. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) Indonesian men survey the damage in Balaroa neighborhood in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Home to hundreds of families, the neighborhood was once a patchwork of asphalted streets and tidy houses. Now it looks as if it was picked up and thrown back to earth with vicious force. Four days after the earthquake and tsunami hit the Indonesian city of Palu, this devastated neighborhood has received no government help and anger is simmering among its residents. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) A man surveys the damage in Balaroa neighborhood in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Home to hundreds of families, the neighborhood was once a patchwork of asphalted streets and tidy houses. Now it looks as if it was picked up and thrown back to earth with vicious force. Four days after the earthquake and tsunami hit the Indonesian city of Palu, this devastated neighborhood has received no government help and anger is simmering among its residents. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) A woman walks past the wreckage of cars which was flattened by Friday's earthquake in Balaroa neighborhood in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia Indonesia, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. Home to hundreds of families, the neighborhood was once a patchwork of asphalted streets and tidy houses. Now it looks as if it was picked up and thrown back to earth with vicious force. Four days after the earthquake and tsunami hit the Indonesian city of Palu, this devastated neighborhood has received no government help and anger is simmering among its residents. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) MANILA, Philippines (AP) - Philippine police say gunmen have killed a town mayor and two other people and wounded the mayor's wife in the latest brazen attack on local officials. Police say Mayor Alexander Buquing, his driver and a police officer were killed Monday night in Bangar town in La Union province. A senator called for an investigation on the killings of several mayors. Buquing's wife, who serves as his vice mayor, was not hit but was injured in the attack that occurred while the group was heading home in an SUV. National police spokesman Chief Superintendent Benigno Durana said Tuesday the Buquing had not been linked by authorities to illegal drugs and added that investigators were trying to determine the motive and identify the attackers, who opened fire from a van. MILAN (AP) - The mayor of a small town in southern Italy who has become a symbol for welcoming migrants to Italy has been placed under house arrest for allegedly aiding illegal immigration. Italian financial police arrested the mayor of the Calabrian town of Riace, Domenico Lucano, early Tuesday as part of an investigation that news agency ANSA reports was spurred by the allocation of government funds for refugees and asylum-seekers. SKY TG24 said accusations include organizing marriages of convenience so immigrants could remain in Italy legally. Lucano gained fame for welcoming migrants, hundreds of whom have settled in the small town of fewer than 2,000 inhabitants. TV presenter Gad Lerner called the arrest "a slap in the face to those who practice the duty of welcoming." LONDON (AP) - In a bleak assessment, credit ratings agency Moody's has warned that Europe remains highly vulnerable to another downturn despite all its fire-fighting efforts over the past few years. In a wide-ranging report Tuesday, Moody's said Europe "is not ready to cope with another major slump stressing the financial system" and noted five vulnerabilities that could deepen the impact in Europe of the next downturn, including higher debt levels, peaking assets prices and regulatory risks. The warning follows a relatively calm period for the 19-country eurozone, which has grappled with a debt crisis over the past decade. However, that sense of calm has dissipated recently amid rising investor concerns about Italy. The new Italian government has fleshed out plans that will, if enacted, see the country's budget deficit swell. PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP) - A prominent Pakistani cleric says an Afghan delegation has asked him to mediate between the Kabul government and the Taliban to help resolve the 17-year-long war in Afghanistan. Maulana Samiul Haq runs a religious school, the Haqqania seminary in the town of Akora Khattak in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, which borders Afghanistan. Many Taliban figures studied there. Haq's seminary says he met with the Afghan representatives on Monday night. Haq told the Afghan representatives he also wishes to see an "end to jihad, end to bloodshed and freedom of Afghanistan with supremacy of Islam." He suggested a secret meeting between Afghan religious leaders and the Taliban, "without U.S. and Pakistani interference." The Afghan delegation included former governor of Nangarhar province, Ataullah Lodin, government peace committee member Qasim Haleemi and others. JOHANNESBURG (AP) - Conservationists are monitoring some 200 endangered frogs that were released along South Africa's coastline after a captive-breeding program at the Johannesburg Zoo. The release last month of the Pickersgill's reed frogs happened in KwaZulu-Natal province, where the species' wetland habitat along the Indian Ocean coast has come under severe pressure from human development. The Endangered Wildlife Trust, a South African group, will follow the progress of the frogs, which were transported in plastic jars by road to their new homes near the city of Durban. The Pickersgill's reed frog is about 2.5-3 centimeters (1-1.2 inches) long. The males are smaller than the females. The species was among those earmarked for help after a fungus killed many amphibian populations around the world in the early 2000s. BRUSSELS (AP) - Pressure mounted Tuesday on British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt to apologize for recent remarks comparing the European Union to the Soviet Union. While British Prime Minister Theresa May effectively rebuked her foreign secretary for making the comparison, leaders from the European Parliament urged Hunt to take back his remarks, which caused particular offense in those East European countries that were under the control of Moscow for 40-plus years after the end of World War II. Guy Verhofstadt, the leader of the ALDE liberals told European legislators at a plenary session in Strasbourg, France that "he is insulting not us, but millions of ordinary citizens who have lived under Soviet rule for such a long time." Hunt's grating comparison - that any EU attempt to prevent a smooth Brexit was akin to the Soviet Union stopping people leaving - came at a very sensitive time for the British government as it seeks to finalize a deal with the EU. With Britain due to leave the EU next March, the negotiations about the future relationship have reached a particularly acute time. Both sides have indicated they want to secure a deal by November so relevant parliaments can give their approvals in time for actual Brexit day. The European Parliament has to give its approval to a withdrawal agreement and the response to Hunt's remark there has been one of anger. Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May arrives at the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre, Birmingham, central England, Tuesday Oct. 2, 2018. (Stefan Rousseau/PA via AP) "Mr. Hunt you should apologize for what you said," said Manfred Weber, the leader of the EPP Christian Democrat group, the biggest in the legislature. British Prime Minister Theresa May also sought to distance herself from Hunt's remarks. "As I sit around that table in the European Union, there are countries there who used to be part of the Soviet Union. They are now democratic countries," May told the BBC. "I can tell you that the two organizations are not the same." One of those countries is Latvia, and its ambassador in London, Baiba Braze, sent a stinging rebuke, saying that "Soviets killed, deported, exiled and imprisoned 100 thousands of Latvia's inhabitants after the illegal occupation in 1940, and ruined lives of 3 generations, while the EU has brought prosperity, equality, growth, respect." Philippe Lamberts, the leader of the Greens in the parliament, also reminded Hunt that Britain had hardly been forced at gunpoint to join the EU back in 1973. "Let he be reminded that the United Kingdom decided freely to join the EU," he said. Hunt, he added, had succumbed to "the now commonplace rhetoric of the far right." ___ Jill Lawless contributed from Birmingham, England. VATICAN CITY (AP) - Pope Francis opens a monthlong meeting of bishops Wednesday on engaging young Catholics as his church is again under fire for the way it covered up for priests who raped and molested young people. One American bishop suggested postponing or cancelling the synod, given the poor optics of assembling the church hierarchy to discuss a demographic harmed by the culture of concealment the same hierarchy has been accused of fostering. A Dutch bishop, outraged that the Vatican hasn't responded to claims that Francis himself rehabilitated a predator American cardinal, announced he was boycotting the meeting altogether. Another American bishop asked Francis to let him stay home to cope with the scandal's fallout in his diocese. Despite the dark cloud hanging over the synod, organizers said Monday they thought the rebirth of the scandal could still give the Vatican an opportunity to show that the Catholic Church isn't just about sex abuse and cover-ups. "The church isn't represented by those who make mistakes. The church is more important and fundamental than that," said Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, who is organizing the Oct. 3-28 meeting. The synod is bringing together 266 bishops from five continents for talks on helping young people find their vocations in life - be it lay or religious - at a time when church marriages and religious vocations are plummeting in much of the West. FILE - In this June 29, 2017 file photo, clouds hang over St. Peter's Basilica, at the Vatican. Despite the dark cloud hanging over a synod of bishops which opens Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, organizers said Monday they thought the rebirth of the scandal could still give the Vatican an opportunity to show that the Catholic Church isn't just about sex abuse and cover-ups. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia, file) It's a follow-on synod to the meetings Francis organized in 2014 and 2015 on family life that inspired his controversial opening to letting divorced and civilly remarried Catholics receive Communion. No single pressing issue is facing bishops this time around, although the way they address homosexuality will be the most closely watched topic. The Vatican's preparatory document made what is believed to be the first-ever reference in an official Vatican text to "LGBT." In addition, the role of women in the church will be watched, although no woman has any vote on the final document. Only a handful of women are attending as experts or as some of the 34 young people picked to attend - a structural imbalance in the Vatican's synod process. On the eve of the synod, a parallel conference got underway across town in Rome organized by Catholic women's groups, which have long lobbied for a greater say in church decision-making. Students from the Ursuline High School in Wimbledon, Britain opened the conference by reading the letter they wrote to Francis complaining about the prejudice they feel as young women in the church. They even criticized Francis' frequent use of the term "feminine genius" to describe the qualities he says are so necessary to the church today. "Initially, 'feminine genius' sounded complimentary, but then we asked ourselves what it really means," the girls wrote. "We think of the qualities it refers to which are supposedly inherent to womanhood, such as caring, nurturing and receptivity. We believe motherhood is really important, but for a number of reasons, focusing only on this does not relate to our ambitions as women." The synod's working document says young people in many secularized parts of the world simply want nothing to do with the Catholic Church, because they find it not only irrelevant to their lives but downright irritating. "This request does not stem from uncritical or impulsive scorn, but is deeply rooted in serious and respectable reasons: sexual and economic scandals," for which they demand the church enforce a zero-tolerance policy. But at the same time, the Vatican itself has fueled the latest scandal by refusing to respond to claims by a retired ambassador, Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, that Francis and a long list of Vatican officials before him covered up for ex-Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, the former archbishop of Washington. Francis removed McCarrick as a cardinal in July after a U.S. church investigation determined an allegation that he fondled a teenage altar boy in the 1970s was credible. But it was apparently common knowledge in the Vatican and U.S. church that McCarrick pressured seminarians to go to bed with him. The one bright spot for the meeting is that for the first time, two bishops from mainland China are participating in a synod, the first tangible result of last month's breakthrough agreement between the Vatican and Beijing over bishop appointments. ___ Follow Nicole Winfield at www.twitter.com/nwinfield BIRMINGHAM, England (AP) - Former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson revved up Britain's Conservative Party Tuesday and ramped up pressure on Prime Minister Theresa May, condemning her proposed divorce deal with the European Union as a "cheat" that would keep the country manacled to the bloc. A day before May was due to rally Tory troops with a keynote speech at the governing party's annual conference, the popular, but divisive Johnson stole the prime minister's thunder with an address laying out his own vision of Brexit and domestic politics. It was a leadership speech in all but name from a politician who quit the government in July over May's Brexit plan, but remains a huge Conservative star - and, his fans hope, a future prime minister. In front of 1,500 conference delegates in Birmingham, central England, Johnson lambasted May's so-called "Chequers plan," which would see Britain stick close to EU rules in return for remaining in the bloc's single market for goods. Johnson said that approach would leave the U.K. "in the tractor beam of Brussels," unable to set its own tariffs and regulations or to strike new trade deals around the world. "This is not pragmatic, it is not a compromise," Johnson said. "It is dangerous and unstable - politically and economically." British Conservative Party Member of Parliament Boris Johnson speaks at a fringe event during the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre, in Birmingham, England, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (AP Photo/Rui Vieira) He said that if the Chequers plan were adopted, "the U.K. will effectively be paraded in manacles down the Rue de la Loi" - a Brussels street lined with EU offices. "This is not democracy. It is not what we voted for," Johnson said. "It's not taking back control. It's forfeiting control. "Chequers is a cheat," he added, drawing huge applause from party members with a call to "chuck Chequers." With six months to go until Britain leaves the European Union on March 29, the EU is seeking new proposals from Britain, and May is sticking to her plan, bringing negotiations to a standstill. The Conservatives are divided over how to proceed, caught between Brexiteers like Johnson and those who want to keep close economic with the bloc, Britain's biggest trading partner. Johnson's full-blooded pro-Brexit rhetoric has wide support among Conservative Party members, though the speech was light on detail about his proposed alternative. Johnson said simply that Britain should use a 20-month transition period after Brexit to negotiate a looser, Canada-style free trade deal while stepping up preparations for a "no-deal" exit. The tousle-headed politician is known for Latin quips and verbal blunders that have included calling Papua New Guineans cannibals and accusing people in Liverpool of "wallowing" in victimhood. In August, he was criticized for comparing Muslim women who wear face-covering veils to "letter boxes," and last month he compared May's Brexit plan to a "suicide vest." Tuesday's British newspapers ran a photo of Johnson going for a jog in a grain field. Many took it as mocking May's assertion that the most mischievous thing she had ever done was run through a field of wheat as a child. Johnson's list of indiscretions is rather longer. In 2004, he was fired as Conservative vice chairman after lying about an extramarital affair. Last month, Johnson and his wife Marina Wheeler announced they were divorcing after 25 years of marriage - a move some saw as an attempt to neutralize potential stories about his private life before a leadership campaign. After Britain's 2016 EU membership referendum, Johnson pulled out of a race to lead the Conservatives, which was won by May. His attacks on the prime minister suggest that he wants a second shot at the top job. Johnson did not call Tuesday for May to be replaced, saying she should simply abandon her plan. He joked that a claim by Treasury chief Philip Hammond that Johnson would never be prime minister had "a distinct ring of truth." But with his shock of blond hair smoothed down, Johnson was in a sober, statesmanlike mode. His language was relatively restrained, with invective reserved for the opposition Labour Party, which he dismissed as "Hugo Chavez-loving, anti-Semitism condoning Kremlin apologists." For many Conservatives, whose party is dwindling in numbers and divided over Brexit, he was a tonic. The hall was packed for Johnson's speech. Delegates stood in line for up to two hours to hear him urge the party to "follow our conservative instincts" by cutting taxes to stimulate growth. Mary Wylie, a local party official from Devon in southwest England, said Johnson's speech expressed "my Conservative philosophy." "It acknowledged fact that our country is a strong and wonderful country," she said. "I voted Brexit because I had faith in my country and wanted sovereignty, and he answered that question." Conservative MP Boris Johnson arrives at the Conservative Party Conference at the ICC, in Birmingham, England, Tuesday Oct. 2, 2018. He's not a member of the government and he's not speaking on the main stage, but Boris Johnson is a star at Britain's Conservative Party conference. (AP Photo/Rui Vieira) Conservative MP Boris Johnson arrives at the Conservative Party Conference at the ICC, in Birmingham, England, Tuesday Oct. 2, 2018. He's not a member of the government and he's not speaking on the main stage, but Boris Johnson is a star at Britain's Conservative Party conference. (AP Photo/Rui Vieira) Conservative MP Boris Johnson arrives at the Conservative Party Conference at the ICC, in Birmingham, England, Tuesday Oct. 2, 2018. He's not a member of the government and he's not speaking on the main stage, but Boris Johnson is a star at Britain's Conservative Party conference. (AP Photo/Rui Vieira) Conservative MP Boris Johnson arrives at the Conservative Party Conference at the ICC, in Birmingham, England, Tuesday Oct. 2, 2018. He's not a member of the government and he's not speaking on the main stage, but Boris Johnson is a star at Britain's Conservative Party conference. (AP Photo/Rui Vieira) Conservative MP Boris Johnson arrives at the Conservative Party Conference at the ICC, in Birmingham, England, Tuesday Oct. 2, 2018. He's not a member of the government and he's not speaking on the main stage, but Boris Johnson is a star at Britain's Conservative Party conference. (AP Photo/Rui Vieira) British Conservative Party Member of Parliament Boris Johnson speaks at a fringe event during the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre, in Birmingham, England, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (AP Photo/Rui Vieira) British Conservative Party Member of Parliament Boris Johnson speaks at a fringe event during the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre, in Birmingham, England, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (AP Photo/Rui Vieira) British Conservative Party Member of Parliament Boris Johnson speaks at a fringe event during the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre, in Birmingham, England, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (AP Photo/Rui Vieira) British Conservative Party Member of Parliament Boris Johnson speaks at a fringe event during the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre, in Birmingham, England, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (AP Photo/Rui Vieira) TEHRAN, Iran (AP) - Iran's currency, the rial, is rallying after weeks of depreciation following President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw America from Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers. Money exchange shops in Tehran on Tuesday were offering 135,000 rials for one U.S. dollar. Only the day before, the rial was selling at 170,000 to $1. Analysts offered various possible reasons for the rally, including a new policy allowing the Central Bank to more muscularly intervene to support the rial, as well as allowing imports of more foreign currency from abroad. There is also hope that Europe will be able to shield Iran from further U.S. sanctions in November targeting Iran's oil industry. Some, however, warn that optimism could fade and the currency moves may just be a "herd reaction" to the rial strengthening. BEIRUT (AP) - Syrian foreign minister says Iranian ballistic missiles that targeted militants in eastern Syria the previous day are part of "legitimate" cooperation between the two countries to combat terrorism. Walid al-Moallem told the Beirut-based Al-Mayadeen TV the strikes were coordinated with Syria's government. His comments were broadcast Tuesday, a day after the missiles targeted the Islamic State group in Deir el-Zour province. Iranian officials said the strikes were in retaliation for an attack on a military parade in Iran last month. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the war in Syria, said the strikes killed eight people. The Syrian government and its allies, as well as the U.S-led coalition are separately battling IS, which still controls a sliver of land along Syria's border with Iraq. WARSAW, Poland (AP) - Thousands of disgruntled police, firefighters and other security services are marching through the Polish capital to demand higher pay and more favorable retirement conditions. Buses carried protesters from across Poland for the march Tuesday, expected to gather some 15,000 participants, including border and prison guards. With a cardboard coffin labeled "Police" and with horns and whistles they are walking to the president's and the prime minister's offices to rally there. Pre-tax monthly earnings in the police range from 2,000 to 4,200 zlotys (470-980 euros; $540-$1,140). GENEVA (AP) - Alibaba founder Jack Ma said Tuesday that the trade dispute between the U.S. and China could last 20 years. But he expressed hope that a solution could be reached as a trade war would "hurt everybody." The Chinese e-commerce billionaire also questioned the focus among some on trade deficits, calling it a relic of the 20th century. U.S. President Donald Trump has long decried the U.S.'s whopping deficit with China. "When trade stops, sometimes the war starts. So trade is the way to stop wars," Ma said at a World Trade Organization seminar. "Trade is the way to build up trust. It's not the weapon to fight against each other." He said trade conflict would not only hurt the U.S. and China but other countries' small businesses. The standoff, he added, "may last 20 years, unfortunately." Overall, Ma expressed bullishness about trade, but said it needed to be protected from regulators. "Today we see Made in China, Made in America, Made in Switzerland or Made in Geneva: 2030 will see Made in Internet." More than 85 percent of business will be e-commerce, he said. FILE - In this March 29, 2018, file photo, a cargo truck drives amid stacked shipping containers at the Yangshan port in Shanghai. China's export orders shrank in September as a tariff battle with Washington over technology escalated, adding to downward pressure on the world's No. 2 economy, two surveys showed Sunday, Sept. 30. The reports add to signs Chinese trade, which had held up despite U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff hikes, might be weakening. That adds to pressure on an economy that already was forecast to cool due to slowing global consumer demand and lending controls imposed to rein in a debt boom. (AP Photo/File) Alibaba Group is the world's biggest e-commerce company by value of the goods that pass across its platforms. Its core business is connecting American retailers with Chinese suppliers, many of them small producers of furniture, handbags, tools and household appliances. The United States is a key market for them and they have been hit hard by Washington's tariff increases. The Trump administration has imposed tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars' worth of Chinese goods, prompting retaliation from Beijing. Ma, 54, is one of China's most prominent and outspoken business leaders. He announced last month he will step down as Alibaba's chairman next September but will stay on as a member of the Alibaba Partnership, a group that retains control of the company through their right to nominate a majority of its board of directors. MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) - A West Virginia man denies using his 7-year-old daughter as a human shield. The Dominion Post reports a deputy followed a girl's screams outside a lake house in February and spotted 42-year-old Scott Alan Shahan and his daughter offshore, on a floating dock that had been untethered. A criminal complaint says Shahan threatened to kill himself and his daughter, jumped in the lake, got naked and fought with a deputy and a trooper who rowed out to save them. Shahan was released, then arrested for domestic assault, escaped, was re-arrested, sent to a mental health facility and is now jailed in Kentucky on unrelated charges. His attorney Lance Rollo asked Monday for mental health evaluation after entering a not-guilty plea to child abuse and attempting to disarm a police officer. ___ Information from: The Dominion Post, http://www.dominionpost.com DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) - President Donald Trump says Saudi Arabia's king "might not be there for two weeks" without U.S. military support, as he sought to pressure the close American ally over rising oil prices. Speaking at a campaign rally Tuesday night in Mississippi, Trump said: "I love the king, King Salman, but I said, 'King, we're protecting you. You might not be there for two weeks without us. You have to pay for your military, you have to pay.'" Trump didn't elaborate on when he made spoke to the king. Trump and King Salman last shared a reported telephone call on Saturday. Benchmark Brent crude oil is near $85 a barrel - a four-year high - and analysts say it could reach $100. U.S. gasoline prices are up ahead of November midterm elections. President Donald Trump arrives to speak at a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) - With back-to-back trade fairs held in Damascus this month, Syria is hoping to jumpstart reconstruction of its devastated cities by inviting international investors to take part in lucrative opportunities. But the absence of significant Western participants, the challenges posed by international sanctions and the lack of a political solution to the seven-year-old conflict point to massive hurdles ahead. The government says it will only award contracts to "friendly countries" that have supported Syria throughout the civil war. But the relatively small-scale participation of companies from Syria's allies, Russia and Iran - both under U.S. sanctions - can hardly even begin to cover the enormous reconstruction costs in Syria, estimated to be anywhere between $250 billion and $400 billion. In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 photo, Chinese visitors arrive to the opening of the Syria rebuilding exhibition at the fair grounds in Damascus, Syria. With back-to-back trade fairs held in Damascus this month, Syria hopes to jumpstart reconstruction of its devastated cities by inviting international investors to take part in lucrative opportunities. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 photo, participants sit next to a poster of Syrian President Bashar Assad during the opening of the Syria rebuilding exhibition at the fair grounds in Damascus, Syria. With back-to-back trade fairs held in Damascus this month, Syria hopes to jumpstart reconstruction of its devastated cities by inviting international investors to take part in lucrative opportunities. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 photo, Syrian Public Works and Housing Minister Hussein Arnous, center left, and Iranian Ambassador in Syria Javad Turk-Abadi, center right, speak with Iranian participants during the opening of the Syria rebuilding exhibition in Damascus, Syria. With back-to-back trade fairs held in Damascus this month, Syria hopes to jumpstart reconstruction of its devastated cities by inviting international investors to take part in lucrative opportunities. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 photo, Iranian Ambassador in Syria Javad Turk-Abadi speaks to The Associated Press during the opening of the Syria rebuilding exhibition at the fair grounds in Damascus, Syria. With back-to-back trade fairs held in Damascus this month, Syria hopes to jumpstart reconstruction of its devastated cities by inviting international investors to take part in lucrative opportunities. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 photo, participants and visitors take a photo next to a poster of Syrian President Bashar Assad during the opening of the Syria rebuilding exhibition at the fair grounds in Damascus, Syria. With back-to-back trade fairs held in Damascus this month, Syria hopes to jumpstart reconstruction of its devastated cities by inviting international investors to take part in lucrative opportunities. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 photo, visitors attend the opening of the Syria rebuilding exhibition at the fair grounds in Damascus, Syria. With back-to-back trade fairs held in Damascus this month, Syria hopes to jumpstart reconstruction of its devastated cities by inviting international investors to take part in lucrative opportunities. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 photo, Chinese visitors arrive for the opening of the Syria rebuilding exhibition at the fair grounds in Damascus, Syria. With back-to-back trade fairs held in Damascus this month, Syria hopes to jumpstart reconstruction of its devastated cities by inviting international investors to take part in lucrative opportunities. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 photo, Iranian Ambassador in Syria Javad Turk-Abadi, right, speaks with Iranian participants during the opening of the Syria rebuilding exhibition in Damascus, Syria. With back-to-back trade fairs held in Damascus this month, Syria hopes to jumpstart reconstruction of its devastated cities by inviting international investors to take part in lucrative opportunities. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 photo, participants attend the opening of the Syria rebuilding exhibition at the fair grounds in Damascus, Syria. With back-to-back trade fairs held in Damascus this month, Syria hopes to jumpstart reconstruction of its devastated cities by inviting international investors to take part in lucrative opportunities. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 photo, Iranian Ambassador in Syria Javad Turk-Abadi speaks to The Associated Press during the opening of the Syria rebuilding exhibition at the fair grounds in Damascus, Syria. With back-to-back trade fairs held in Damascus this month, Syria hopes to jumpstart reconstruction of its devastated cities by inviting international investors to take part in lucrative opportunities. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) PALU, Indonesia (AP) - Days after a powerful earthquake and tsunami struck central Indonesia's Sulawesi island, residents and rescuers are still trying to cope with the humanitarian crisis. The official death toll increased Wednesday to 1,407, with thousands injured and more than 70,000 displaced from their homes. Aid was slowly making its way into areas devastated by the disasters. One neighborhood's residents clapped, cheered and high-fived in their excitement at seeing a stopped truck laden with supplies. The U.N. humanitarian office said "needs are vast," with people urgently requiring shelter, clean water, food, fuel and emergency medical care. ___ This gallery was curated by Associated Press photo editor Wally Santana in Bangkok. In this Wednesday, Oct. 3, 20-18, photo, an earthquake victim is bandaged at a makeshift hospital in Palu, Central Sulawesi Indonesia. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) In this Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, photo, a man sits in the shade of a sheet of a corrugated tin surrounded by earthquake debris in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) In this Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, photo, an Indonesian rescue team carries the body of a victim following an earthquake and tsunami in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) In this Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, photo, a police K9 unit continues to search for victims in the wreckage following earthquakes and tsunami in Palu, Central Sulawesi Indonesia. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) In this Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, photo, a boy looks out from his house window damaged by an earthquake and tsunami in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) In this Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, photo, a child recovers after his left hand was amputated after being injured in the massive earthquake in Palu, Central Sulawesi Indonesia. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) In this Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, photo, a man carries a sack containing food scavenged from an abandoned warehouse damaged in an earthquake and tsunami-affected area in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia Indonesia. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) In this Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, photo, rescue teams recover bodies from the earthquake-damaged Roa-Roa Hotel in Palu, Central Sulawesi Indonesia. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) In this Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, photo, men dig through sodden piles of food inside an abandoned warehouse following an earthquake and tsunami in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) In this Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, photo, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, center, talks to media after visiting the earthquake and tsunami-damaged Roa-Roa Hotel. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) In this Oct. 3, 2018, photo, men are silhouetted at an earthquake-damaged warehouse in the affected area in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) In this Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, photo, a damaged car sits in floodwater after it was swept ashore by the tsunami that following an earthquake in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, a man carries recovered items from the damaged warehouse from Friday's tsunami at a neighborhood in Donggala, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) In this Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, file photo, a ship rests near houses after it was swept ashore during Friday's tsunami at a neighborhood in Donggala, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana, File) In this Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, file photo, a car is lifted above the ground following a massive earthquake-induced tsunami at Talise beach in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, Monday, Oct. 1, 2018. A mass burial of earthquake and tsunami victims was being prepared in a hard-hit city Monday as the need for heavy equipment to dig for survivors of the disaster that struck a central Indonesian island three days ago grows desperate. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) In this Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, file photo, a man carry items he saved from the rubble following a major earthquake and tsunami in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Rifki, File) SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) - A prosecutor in Chile is questioning the archbishop of Santiago about allegedly covering up years of child sex abuse committed by clerics and officials of the country's Catholic Church. Television images showed Cardinal Ricardo Ezzati arriving to the prosecutor's office Wednesday in the city of Rancagua. It is not clear if he will testify as a defendant about his alleged role in the cover-up of years of abuse by his top deputy, the Rev. Oscar Munoz. Chile's clerical sex abuse scandal was unleashed earlier this year when Pope Francis repeatedly discredited victims of the Rev. Fernando Karadima, the country's most notorious predator priest. Francis eventually recognized "grave errors in judgment." He secured offers of resignation from every active member of Chile's bishops' conference and defrocked Karadima. Boris Johnson will use his eagerly-anticipated speech at the Tory conference to issue a clarion call to activists to believe in Conservative values. In what will undoubtedly be seen as a pitch to replace Theresa May as leader, Mr Johnson will not only restate his opposition to the Prime Ministers handling of Brexit but call on Tories to focus on law and order, tax cuts and house-building in order to defeat Labour. His call for Tories to stick to their tax-cutting guns will come as a rebuke to Chancellor Philip Hammond, who has openly admitted taxes will rise to help pay for the 20 billion spending boost promised to the NHS. The Tory gathering in Birmingham is becoming a grudge match between the former foreign secretary and the Chancellor, who launched a savage assault on Mr Johnson in a series of newspaper and broadcast interviews. Mr Hammond mocked his former Cabinet colleague by mimicking his style of speaking in an interview with the Daily Mail, in which he predicted that Johnson will never become PM. Accusing Mr Johnson of lacking the attention to detail to succeed in grown-up politics, he dismissed the super-Canada Brexit deal favoured by the former foreign secretary as a fantasy world plan. Extracts released ahead of Mr Johnsons speech to a fringe meeting on Tuesday suggest he will present himself as ready to stand up for Tory values and lead a fight against Jeremy Corbyns Labour. In what may be seen as a swipe at Mrs Mays focus on righting burning injustices in society, he will urge the party not to ape Corbyn but to take basic conservative ideas and fit them to the problems of today. Speaking at a fringe meeting hosted by the ConservativeHome website, Mr Johnson will say: We must on no account follow Corbyn, and start to treat capitalism as a kind of boo word. We cant lose our faith in competition and choice and markets but we should restate the truth that there is simply no other system that is so miraculously successful in satisfying human wants and needs. We should set our taxes to stimulate investment and growth. We should be constantly aiming not to increase but to cut taxes. It is the conservative approach that gets things done, so lets follow our conservative instincts. Attacking Mr Corbyns leaders speech to Labours conference in Liverpool last week, Mr Johnson will say: It was astonishing that he had absolutely nothing to say about the wealth-creating sector of the economy the people who get up at the crack of dawn to prepare their shops, the grafters and the grifters, the innovators, the entrepreneurs he didnt mention any successes. We Conservatives know that it is only a strong private sector economy that can pay for superb public services and that is the central symmetry of our one nation Toryism. Jeremy Corbyn addressed Labours conference in Liverpool last week (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Mr Johnson will pay only a flying one-day visit to a conference which has witnessed open warfare within the Tory party over Brexit, which critics say he has done nothing to calm. He used a Sunday Times interview to describe Mrs Mays own policy on EU withdrawal as deranged and preposterous. And he pointedly contrasted his record as the figurehead of the Leave campaign with that of the Remain-backing Mrs May, saying: Unlike the Prime Minister, I fought for this. As Mrs May celebrated her 62nd birthday, Mr Johnson was pictured jogging through a field near his Oxfordshire home, in a photo apparently designed to mock the PMs famous memories of running through wheatfields as a mischievous schoolgirl. Boris Johnson will address an event on the fringe of the conference on Tuesday (Steven Paston/PA) Mr Johnson is not speaking from the stage at this years conference, after walking out of Cabinet in July in protest at the plan agreed at Chequers for the UKs future relationship with the EU. But his scheduled speech on the fringe is the hottest ticket of the four-day gathering, with activists expected to start queuing hours early for what is certain to be a jam-packed event. In a round of broadcast interviews on Monday, Mr Hammond was repeatedly asked whether Mr Johnson could ever become prime minister, and stated several times: I dont believe that will happen. Theresa May and Philip Hammond chat to apprentices during a factory visit in Birmingham (Darren Staples/PA) He told Sky News: Of course, Boris is a big personality, nobody is denying that. What Im saying is that the business of government is a process of attention to detail, follow-through, lots of hard work. It isnt just about making flamboyant statements and big announcements, its about getting things done. Officials at the worlds largest particle accelerator have suspended an Italian physicist pending an investigation into his highly offensive presentation on gender issues that raised new concerns about sexism in science. Cern, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, said Alessandro Strumia of the University of Pisa was out of line in his talk on Friday for a seminar on High Energy Theory and Gender. The Geneva-area centre, where the subatomic particle known as the Higgs boson was confirmed in 2013, said it had no prior knowledge of the content of Mr Strumias presentation and cited its attacks on individuals as unacceptable in any professional context. [Update] On Monday 1 October, CERN suspended the scientist from any activity at CERN with immediate effect, pending investigation into last weeks event. https://t.co/HhvNSxPVPg https://t.co/o5QGg4L9VZ CERNpress (@CERNpress) October 1, 2018 A spokesman confirmed a slide presentation on Mr Strumias talk found online, but said a recording was not immediately available. The slides featured charts, graphs and tables that are hard to understand out of context, but one quotation said: Physics invented and built by men, its not by invitation. In a phone interview with the Associated Press, Mr Strumia said he wanted to debunk what he insists was a misconception, and said he does not believe men are better than women in physics. The beam tunnel at the Large Hadron Collider (Maximilien Brice/CERN/PA) This workshop was continuously telling (saying), men are bad, men are sexist, they discriminate against us lots of things like this, he said. I did a check to see if this was true and the result was, that was not true. There is a political group that wants women, and other people, to believe that they are victims. Noting the suspension, Mr Strumia lashed out at the Geneva centre, but expressed hope that it would come around to his way of thinking. I believe Cern is making a mistake, he said. They suspended me because its true and its contrary to the political line. And I hope Cern will at some point understand. I hope this is just the first self-preservation instinct. Somebody had to speak. Laura Covi, who studies cosmology at Georg-August University in Goettingen, Germany, and was at the Friday seminar, said Mr Strumias comments did not go down well. He was claiming that some of the positions women were getting, theyre getting positions with fewer (journal) citations than men, she said. Im not so sure his thesis was supported by the data. She acknowledged that some of the worlds most eminent physicists have been men, but said that was mostly a historical bias since men have been able to study physics longer than women. She also disputed that citations are an indicator of quality and said it was not her experience that female physicists landed jobs with fewer journal publications than men. Ms Covi said Mr Strumia has frequently made provocative comments in the past and said after his presentation that he was challenged by many at the seminar so much so that the chair had to abruptly end the session when it ran over. People were upset by what he was saying. And then he later started to make statements that were completely unscientific, she said. I dont think he represents the majority view. There were a few men who were there but they didnt support his view. Dr Julie Moote of University College London, who had spoken earlier in the seminar, said it was a shame Mr Strumia did not engage with evidence from other presenters including her research with more than 40,000 young people in England and interviews over time with youths aged 10 to 18. Findings show that young women do experience sexism in physics from being told by a teacher that you need a boy brain to do physics, to survey data showing that boys feel they are encouraged more by their physics teachers than girls which leads to a situation where even some of the highest attaining young women were doubting that they were clever enough to do physics, Dr Moote said. Cern is currently headed by a woman, Italian particle physicist Fabiola Gianotti. Former Alaska governor Sarah Palins oldest son hit a woman on the head after telling her she could not leave his house and resisted as authorities arrested him, court documents said. Track Palin, 29, is in jail facing misdemeanour charges including assault, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct, less than a year after being accused of attacking his father at his parents home. A female acquaintance said Palin blocked the doorway when she tried to leave his house in the city of Wasilla on Friday night, according to an affidavit by Alaska State Troopers. She told authorities he took her phone when she said she would call the police if he did not let her leave. She said she made it to her car in the driveway but Palin followed her and was on top of her, hitting her in the head, the document said. They wrestled over the phone and he let her leave after she screamed for help, the affidavit said. Her arm had small scratches and the back of her head and neck were red, a trooper wrote. Track Palin (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File) Officers went to Palins house and said he told them the two were arguing over how they said goodbye and that any injuries the woman had were self-inflicted. Palin said he was injured but would not explain further or let officers examine him, the document says. Authorities said a trooper told Palin he was under arrest and tried to put his arm behind his back, but he tried to pull it forward. When two troopers tried to pull his arms back, he kicked over a coffee table, the document says. A trooper pulled him to the ground. After Palin was cuffed, troopers say they tried to put him in a vehicle but he was pulling and shoving with his shoulder. He threw his head back towards a troopers face, who moved to avoid getting hit, lost his balance and they both fell down, the documents say. Palin appeared in court on Saturday, where a judge set a 500 dollar unsecured bond with the condition of wearing a monitoring device if released. Palin, whose mother was the 2008 Republican vice presidential nominee, was arrested in an assault on his father Todd last December. He was accused of breaking into his parents home and leaving Todd Palin bleeding from cuts on his head, authorities have said. Track Palin, an Army veteran who served a year in Iraq, was accepted into a therapeutic programme intended to rehabilitate veterans and pleaded guilty to criminal trespassing in a plea agreement. His lawyer in that case says he has not been contacted to represent Palin in the new case. Patrick Bergt says he does not know how the allegations will affect Palins standing in Alaska Veterans Court, which gives eligible former service members the option of enrolling in mental health treatment instead of a traditional sentence. The arrangement called for Palin to serve 10 days in jail if he completed the programme . Otherwise he would serve a year. Palin family lawyer John Tiemessen said he had no firsthand knowledge of the new case. Palin also was accused of punching his then-girlfriend in 2016, court documents said. He pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm while intoxicated, and the other charges were dismissed. Sarah Palin indicated that post-traumatic stress disorder might have been a factor in that case. The White House has given the FBI clearance to interview anyone it wants to by Friday in its investigation of sexual misconduct allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. The new guidance was issued to the FBI over the weekend in response to Democratic and news media claims that the scope of the probe was too narrow. It comes as the FBI presses ahead with its investigation, questioning in recent days at least three people about accusations of misconduct against Mr Kavanaugh dating to when he was in high school and college. Christine Blasey Ford (Win McNamee/AP) Among the witnesses interviewed were men who California college professor Christine Blasey Ford says were present at a party of teenagers in the early 1980s at which she says was sexually assaulted by Mr Kavanaugh. Donald Trump, addressing concerns about the probes remit at a news conference, said he wants the FBI to carry out a comprehensive investigation and it wouldnt bother me at all if agents pursued accusations made by three women who have come forward. But the president also said Senate Republicans are determining the parameters of the investigation and ultimately, theyre making the judgment. My White House will do whatever the senators want, Mr Trump said. The one thing I want is speed. The White House instructed the FBI to interview anyone it deems relevant to the inquiry, but required the work to be done by Friday, according to a source. The revised guidance is aimed at promoting an investigation that could tamp down Democratic criticism and satisfy on-the-fence Republicans about its thoroughness and fairness while also ensuring a fixed deadline to prevent the probe from becoming open-ended and spanning weeks. Officials said it was possible, but not likely, that the bureau could complete its work before Friday. Mr Trump said a comprehensive investigation is a good thing for Mr Kavanaugh and that while it was fine that the FBI wants to interview all three women who have made accusations, we dont want to go on a witch hunt, do we? As Republicans and Democrats clashed over whether the FBI would have enough time and freedom to conduct a thorough investigation before a vote on the nomination, FBI agents have been interviewing multiple witnesses from Mr Kavanaughs high school and college years. They include Mark Judge, a high school friend of Mr Kavanaugh who Ms Ford has said was in the room when a drunken Mr Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her. Mr Judge has denied misconduct allegations. On Monday, his lawyer Barbara Biz Van Gelder said he had been interviewed but his interview has not been completed. Another witness, Patrick PJ Smyth, answered every question he was asked and told agents he had no knowledge of the small gathering Ms Ford described, according to his lawyer, Eric Bruce. Mr Smyth also told the FBI does not have knowledge of Fords allegations of improper conduct against Kavanaugh, Mr Bruce said. Ms Ford has said Mr Smyth was downstairs, not anywhere near the event. Ms Ford shared her allegation at an extraordinary congressional hearing last week that also included Mr Kavanaughs angry and emotional denial. As of Monday afternoon, she had not been contacted by the FBI to schedule an interview, according to a person close to her. The FBI interviewed a separate accuser over the weekend Deborah Ramirez, who has said Mr Kavanaugh exposed himself to her when both were students at Yale University in the 1980s. Ms Ramirez also provided investigators with the names of others who she said could corroborate her account, according to a source. Mr Kavanaugh has denied that allegation. White House officials insisted that they were not micromanaging the new one-week review of Mr Kavanaughs background and insisted Republican senators were dictating the inquirys scope. But questions about the investigations reach mounted as additional witnesses came forward with accounts they wanted to present to the FBI about Mr Kavanaughs behaviour. In a statement on Sunday, a Yale classmate of Mr Kavanaugh said he was deeply troubled by what has been a blatant mischaracterisation by Brett himself of his drinking at Yale. Charles Chad Ludington, who teaches at North Carolina State University, said he was a friend of Mr Kavanaugh at Yale and he was a frequent drinker, and a heavy drinker. A third woman, Julie Swetnick, accused Mr Kavanaugh and Mr Judge of excessive drinking and inappropriate treatment of women in the early 1980s, among other accusations. Mr Kavanaugh has called her accusations a joke, and Mr Judge categorically denies the allegations. Britain remaining in the European single market after Brexit is now a stronger political possibility than it has been for the past two years, Nicola Sturgeon will insist. The Scottish First Minister will argue that the only glimmer of hope emerging from the fiascos of the last few weeks is that Theresa Mays Chequers deal has been exposed as untenable. As a result she will say that staying part of the single market and customs union after the UK leaves the European Union next March must now be a stronger political possibility than at any time in the last two years. But the First Minister will again urge the PM to extend the timetable for Brexit talks to avoid the cliff edge that is looming. Ms Sturgeon will make the call in a speech to the Europa Institute at Edinburgh University as it marks its 50th anniversary. The Institute is a centre for research on European integration, but the First Minister will argue that UK Government plans to take Britain out of the single market constitute an act of wilful economic vandalism. We are delighted to have @NicolaSturgeon deliver the Europa Institute's 50th Anniversary Lecture on 2nd October at the Playfair Library Hall at @EdinburghUni @uoessps @UoELawSchool Details at: https://t.co/xxB3SsR606 pic.twitter.com/WmadVId1wr Edinburgh Europa Institute (@EuropaInstitute) September 26, 2018 The Scottish Government has repeatedly called for the UK to remain in the single market and customs union, arguing this would be the least damaging Brexit deal for the country. Staying in the single market is a `stronger possibility than it has been for the last two years, Nicola Sturgeon will say (Jane Barlow/PA) This has so far been rejected by the Conservative administration at Westminster. With the UKs EU departure date looming, Ms Sturgeon will claim the Chequers deal which has already been rejected by European leaders is not a serious and credible option. But by continuing to pursue this Mrs May is ploughing on with a strategy that she knows will reduce household incomes and cost people their jobs, the First Minister will say. Ms Sturgeon, speaking as the UK Conservative conference takes place in Birmingham, will add: It is time, at this critical hour, for the Prime Minister to finally face up to reality. The truth is she has lost control of her party and is facing mutiny in Birmingham. With so little time left to conclude a Brexit deal, and with so many jobs and livelihoods at stake, this arrogant self-indulgence by the Conservative Party is unforgivable. The First Minister will add: If I had to pick out a glimmer of hope from the fiascos of the last few weeks it would be this: the very fact that the Prime Ministers negotiating position has been exposed as untenable, means that membership of the single market and the customs union must now be a stronger political possibility than at any time in the last two years. However, time is running out fast and an extension of Article 50 to avoid the cliff edge that is looming and allow for common sense to prevail is now a necessity. She continued: The Prime Minister still, after Salzburg, maintained that Chequers is the only serious and credible option on the table. However it is not a serious and credible option. And the only reason it is the only option on the table is because her government has refused to countenance any others. It is now their duty to do so. A UK Government spokesman said: We have put a detailed and credible plan for the future relationship on the table, which would set us on an ambitious course, one that enhances our prosperity and security and that genuinely works for everyone across the UK. There is no serious alternative plan which would deliver on the Brexit people voted for. The Scottish Government has not taken the decisive steps needed to tackle child poverty, campaigners have said, with a quarter of youngsters living in families that are struggling to get by. Over the period 2014-15 to 2016-17 an average of 230,000 children in Scotland were living in relative poverty each year, the independent Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) said in its report on Poverty in Scotland 2018. While the Scottish Government had made some progress towards loosening povertys grip the report added it had not taken the decisive steps needed to make the transformational change required for Scotlands children. Legislation passed unanimously by Holyrood in 2017 set a number of targets for cutting child poverty including having just one in 10 children living in relative poverty and only 5% in absolute poverty by 2030. But the JRF said there needed to be more link up between poverty strategies and labour market strategies, adding without this it is questionable whether the Scottish Government will be able to reach its child poverty targets. The report also demanded changes to the UK Governments Universal Credit benefit system, warning without this more families, especially lone parents, are likely to face higher rates of poverty in and out of work. One in four youngsters in Scotland are living in poverty, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation said (David Cheskin/PA) It stated: In Scotland, almost a quarter of a million children are in poverty, with their families facing impossible decisions such as whether to pay the rent, heat their home or put food on the table. There is consensus across the Scottish Parliament that this situation will be ended within a generation, but it will require renewed action by government, employers, landlords and providers of key goods and services. The report went on: The Scottish Government has made some progress towards loosening povertys grip, but has not taken the decisive steps needed to make the transformational change required for Scotlands children. JRF said Scottish ministers need to be clear on and accountable for how existing and new economic and labour market strategies align with its commitment to tackle child poverty, and to track this over time to learn from triumphs and mistakes. Child poverty across Scotland fell in the late 1990s and early 2000s, but the report added that since 2010 that trend had been reversed mainly due to UK Government-imposed social security cuts. Of the 230,000 children living in poverty, 90,000 were in a family where someone usually an adult is disabled or has a medical condition that limits what they can do. Meanwhile 30,000 youngsters were living in a family where one adult usually the mother was not in work, with a further 30,000 children in single parent households also affected. Just over 15,000 children of lone parents who worked part-time were in poverty, as were almost 15,000 children of couples where one worked full time and the other worked part-time, the report added. Forthcoming strategies from the Scottish Government, to help more disabled people into employment and to close the gender pay gap, could make a crucial difference for our society, it continued. The report stressed: For employment to become a more reliable route out of poverty, further action on flexible work and childcare is needed. SNP ministers have already pledged to increase free childcare to 1,140 hours a year for all three- and four-year-olds, and some two-year-olds, by the end of this Parliament. But the report said: It is yet to be seen whether the Scottish Governments expanded offer of free childcare to parents of three- and four-year-olds will help to transform womens labour market participation in ways needed to reduce child poverty and close the gender pay gap. JRF chief executive Campbell Robb said tackling child poverty in a generation was achievable but would need the Scottish Government to lead the way. He stated: In Scotland, we believe in protecting each other from harm and yet we are now seeing more children growing up in poverty. One in four almost a quarter of a million children are now exposed to this harmful reality. Families in Scotland are facing impossible situations such as deciding whether to pay the rent, put food on the table or pay for heating. There is consensus across the Scottish Parliament that this unacceptable situation of so many children in poverty will be brought to an end within a generation. This is achievable. But it means the Scottish Government needs to lead the way, working with and encouraging employers to open opportunities for parents with disabilities or caring commitments, so everyone can build a decent and secure life. Peter Kelly, director of the Poverty Alliance, stated: We know what can be achieved when the right solutions are in place. But we also know that much more needs to be done. Thats why more concerted action is required from Scottish government and business. A UK Government spokewoman said: Since 2010 over 3.3 million more people are in work across the UK, and the proportion of people in Scotland living in absolute poverty is at a record low, including for children. The best way to help people improve their lives is to support them into work, and Universal Credit gives people the flexibility to increase their working hours while keeping more of their money. The Scottish Government now has significant welfare powers, including to top-up existing benefits, pay discretionary payments and create entirely new benefits altogether. Scottish Government Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell said: The Joseph Rowntree Foundations Report is welcome. It explains clearly the challenges we face whilst also outlining how our current programmes, including actions to address the gender pay gap and disability employment can tackle poverty, which remains at unacceptable levels. Scotland has consistently had the lowest child poverty rates of the four UK nations. However, as the report makes clear, UK Government welfare cuts will significantly increase the number of children in poverty in Scotland and across the UK. Whilst this means we are tackling poverty with one hand tied behind our back, I know if we take action in the right ways, we have the chance to reduce child poverty to the lowest levels ever in Scotlands history and that is a future all of us want. That is why we are taking firm action through the first Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan which includes 12 million for intensive employment support for parents, a national minimum school clothing grant of 100 to help with essential costs, Best Start Grant payments to help families in the early years, and our commitment to doubling free childcare hours. I look forward to working with JRF on their other suggested solutions so we can ensure we continue to do our utmost to tackle poverty. Scotland is trapped in a constitutional Groundhog Day, the Scottish Secretary will claim as he calls on the SNP to drop plans for a second independence referendum. David Mundell will urge the First Minister to work with the UK Government and scrap plans for a further referendum. Speaking at the Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham, Mr Mundell is expected to say: Every day Scotland is stuck in a constitutional Groundhog Day is a day that our economy is being held back and that the SNP Government is not getting on with the day job of managing our schools and hospitals. So I want to use this opportunity to say to Nicola Sturgeon it is time to end the constitutional uncertainty that we have lived with for the past four years. It is time for Scotlands two governments to work together in the best interests of the Scottish people. Mr Mundell will take part in a conference panel discussion entitled A Stronger, Fairer United Kingdom. Scottish Secretary David Mundell will call on the SNP to scrap plans for a second independence referendum (Peter Byrne/PA) He will join Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington, Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns and Northern Irish Secretary Karen Bradley for the event. He also repeated calls for all parties to back Theresa Mays Chequers plan for Brexit. SNP Depute Leader Keith Brown said: The Tories are like a broken record they cant go five minutes without shouting about independence while demanding that nobody else speak about independence. The fact is its not up to David Mundell, Ruth Davidson or any other Tory politician to dictate Scotlands future. Its up to the people of Scotland. If David Mundell was at all interested in avoiding the risks of a hard Brexit hed be getting behind our efforts to protect our place in the single market. Criminal gangs could be extorting millions of pounds from thousands of small businesses in Northern Ireland, police said. Under-threat traders, often in working-class loyalist or republican areas, are the least able to pay illegal taxes imposed by paramilitary thugs, Detective Superintendent Bobby Singleton said. Many do not report the intimidation, which is supporting lavish crime lord lifestyles. Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Det Supt Bobby Singleton said: Those operating in working-class communities across the country (are) struggling to make ends meet and having to pay this totally illegal taxation to paramilitary thugs. Extortion is under-reported but, based on intelligence, Mr Singleton said it was an extensive problem across Northern Ireland. Organised criminals are targeting legitimate businesses in working-class areas as well as drug dealers seeking the right to operate in the areas they control, he added. Police have expressed concern about the level of extortion by organised criminals against small businesses - Anthony Harbinson and Detective Superintendent Bobby Singleton (Michael Cooper/PA) Mr Singleton said: It is a key point of how paramilitaries generate their funds and support their lifestyles. He said the extortion was worth thousands of pounds if not millions. Around 100 organised crime gangs are operating in Northern Ireland a quarter with links to paramilitaries and most deal in the lucrative and low-risk drugs trade, Mr Singleton added. Last year, 183 organised crime groups were dismantled, frustrated or disrupted, the head of the Organised Crime Task Force, Anthony Harbinson, said. About 10-15% of organised crime groups have a foreign dimension, Mr Singleton added. Unexplained wealth orders cracking down on high-rolling criminals are used in Great Britain but have not yet been introduced in Northern Ireland because Stormont powersharing is stalled. Officials still have the ability to confiscate criminal money; 1.9 million in criminal assets was recovered last year with half returned to law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and the courts. The remainder was allocated to initiatives to reduce crime and the fear of crime. The passage of legislation putting the burden of proof on those accused of harbouring criminal assets has been delayed by the lack of a Stormont ministerial Executive, the task force has disclosed previously. Mr Harbinson added: I would encourage everyone to get back into Government as soon as possible. Since the establishment of the PSNIs Asset Confiscation and Enforcement Team last year, there has been a 150% rise in the number of PSNI restraints being put in place and a 50% increase in the number of confiscation orders granted by the courts. The latest from the Conservative Party conference makes the majority of the front pages on Tuesday, with Brexit, rail travel and Boris Johnson all featuring. The Times leads with suggestions of a grand bargain which Theresa May will offer to European Union leaders to break the deadlock in negotiations. The paper reports the Prime Minister will offer to limit Britains ability to strike free trade deals post-Brexit. Tomorrow's front page: May agrees curbs on trade to break Brexit deadlock #tomorrowspapertoday pic.twitter.com/LjscjoUNgo The Times (@thetimes) October 1, 2018 The Daily Telegraph carries a picture of Mr Johnson running through fields in Oxfordshire interpreted by some as an allusion to the naughtiest thing Mrs May said she had ever done. Their main story is on the the first diagnosis target for the NHS on cancers. The Guardian carries the same picture of Mr Johnson alongside a story in which Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson urges her party to get behind the Prime Minister. The Guardian front page, Tuesday 2 October 2018: Tories urged to get behind May as party rivals go on offensive pic.twitter.com/1BQEHe5d15 The Guardian (@guardian) October 1, 2018 The Financial Times reports on General Electric replacing John Flannery as chief executive after a year in the role. Just published: front page of the Financial Times, UK edition, Tuesday 2 October https://t.co/DvYFldYbvi pic.twitter.com/xF0gXlkmBu Financial Times (@FinancialTimes) October 1, 2018 The Metro reports on an announcement made by Transport Secretary Chris Grayling at the conference which will see passengers able to claim compensation for delayed rail journeys through a smartphone. What the papers say - October 2 The i previews Mr Johnsons speech to conference on Tuesday, calling it a moment of truth. Tuesday's front page: Moment of truth for Boris Johnson as he delivers 'alternative leader's speech' at #cpc18 #tomorrowspaperstoday pic.twitter.com/oc2Jy9YNb8 i newspaper (@theipaper) October 1, 2018 The Independent reports on the impact of changes to the state pension age for women, saying a number of those affected have been driven to self-harm. The Daily Mirror writes that the Conservatives are in meltdown, adding the party is at civil war over Brexit. The Sun carries allegations about the activities of an Apprentice contestant when he was a younger man. Tomorrow's front page: BBC blasted after failing to uncover The Apprentice hopeful Daniel Elahis secret past as a drug dealer https://t.co/iQf4cJLF6d pic.twitter.com/yD9bZfBAiw The Sun (@TheSun) October 1, 2018 The Daily Mail reports on the biggest immigration reform for decades, saying that Mrs May and Home Secretary Sajid Javid have agreed to end EU free movement. The Daily Express says there could be radical tax cuts for families and businesses after Britain leaves the EU without a deal. And the Daily Star carries comments from TV weight loss expert Steve Miller saying parents should take responsibility for their childs weight. Desperation was visible on Tuesday in parts of Indonesias central Sulawesi island that were heavily damaged by a massive earthquake and tsunami. Four days after the disaster, teams were searching for trapped survivors under destroyed homes and buildings, but they needed more heavy equipment to clear the rubble. Signs propped along roads read We Need Food and We Need Support, while children begged for cash in the streets and long lines of cars created traffic jams as people waited for fuel. The desperation was evident across Palu, a city of more than 380,000 people that was struck by both the quake and the tsunami, its force apparently magnified in the surrounding inlet. An eight-storey hotel in the city collapsed, while many people were believed trapped under shattered houses in the Balaroa neighbourhood. The earthquake caused the ground to heave up and down violently, said disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho. I and about 50 other people in Balaroa were able to save ourselves by riding on a mound of soil which was getting higher and higher, resident Siti Hajat told MetroTV, adding her house was destroyed. In the Petobo neighbourhood, the quake caused loose, wet soil to liquefy, creating a thick, heavy mud that caused massive damage. In Petobo, it is estimated that there are still hundreds of victims buried in mud, Mr Nugroho said. Satellite images show the Petobo neighbourhood of Palu before and after the tsunami (DigitalGlobe/AP) Residents who found loved ones, alive and dead, over the weekend expressed frustration that it took rescue teams until Monday to reach Petobo. The confirmed death toll of 844, mostly from Palu, is expected to rise as authorities reach cut-off areas. The regencies of Donggala, Sigi and Parigi Moutong with a combined population of 1.2 million had yet to be fully assessed. The magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck at dusk on Friday and generated a tsunami said to have been as high as 20ft in places. About 3,000 residents flocked to Palus airport, trying to board military aircraft or one of the few commercial flights using the facility only partially operating due to damage. Video showed some of them screaming in anger because they were not able to get on a departing military plane. We have not eaten for three days! one woman yelled. We just want to be safe! Nearly 50,000 people have been displaced from their homes in Palu alone, Mr Nugroho said, and hospitals were overwhelmed. You can save lives. Please DONATE now to help families who have lost everything in #Indonesia: https://t.co/LWXTRkzJto #Sulawesi pic.twitter.com/oh4t5mYGO0 British Red Cross (@BritishRedCross) October 1, 2018 The Indonesian air force confirmed that a Hercules aircraft carrying an unspecified number of survivors was able to leave Palu for South Sulawesis capital of Makassar. Indonesian President Joko Widodo authorised the acceptance of international help, Mr Nugroho said, adding that generators, heavy equipment and tents were among the most-needed items. The European Union and 10 countries have offered assistance, including the United States, Australia and China, he said. We will send food today, as much as possible with several aircraft, Mr Widodo told reporters in the capital, Jakarta, adding that a supply of fuel was also set to arrive. The powerful quake and tsunami struck Palu on Friday evening (AP/Tatan Syuflana) The coastline at Palu was strewn with rubble and a few brightly coloured cargo containers poking out of the water. Buildings near the water were ruined shells. The arches of a large yellow bridge rested in the water and eerie drone footage showed a Ferris wheel, untouched, on a beach scraped bare by the waves. Rescuers searching a collapsed building on Monday night were able to pull 38-year-old Sapri Nusin alive from the rubble. He was talking to his rescuers as they took him away but his condition was not known. EU releases 1.5 million (over IDR 25 billion) emergency aid for victims of #gempat #earthquake #PALUDONGGALA solidarity in action with #EUandRI. We are also deploying an expert and our @CopernicusEU mapping service. Read morehttps://t.co/WEHc81NPK1 pic.twitter.com/IPhPboaIbq EU in Indonesia (@uni_eropa) September 30, 2018 Indonesia is frequently struck by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis because of its location on the Ring of Fire, an arc of volcanoes and fault lines in the Pacific Basin. A powerful quake on the island of Lombok killed 505 people in August. The vast archipelago has more than 17,000 islands home to 260 million people. Roads and infrastructure are poor in many areas, making access difficult in the best of conditions. Residents of the town closest to the epicentre of the earthquake which devastated parts of Indonesias Sulawesi island have begged the countrys president to help them. Most of the attention so far has focused on the biggest affected city, Palu, home to 380,000 people, but people in many outlying areas are still waiting for assistance. The confirmed death toll was raised to 1,234, but national disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said at a news conference in Jakarta that casualties in the communities of Sigi and Balaroa have not been counted yet, meaning the figure is likely to rise. The scale of the destruction is apparent in parts of the island (AP) Donggala and other outlying areas have received little assistance largely due to impassable roads. Local administration head Kasman Lassa said residents should take only food staples from shops. Everyone is hungry and they want to eat after several days of not eating, Mr Lassa said. We have anticipated it by providing food, rice, but it was not enough. There are many people here. So, on this issue, we cannot pressure them to hold much longer. Desperation was visible everywhere among victims receiving little aid. In Palu, signs propped along roads read We Need Food and We Need Support, while children begged for cash in the streets and long lines of cars snarled traffic as people waited for fuel. Saadon Lawira holds his grandsons cat whose cry helped him find his body in Balaroa, Palu (AP) Teams were searching for trapped survivors under destroyed homes and buildings, including a collapsed eight-storey hotel in the city, but they needed more heavy equipment to clear the rubble. Many people are believed to be trapped under shattered houses in Balaroa, where the earthquake caused the ground to heave up and down violently. In the Petobo area, the quake caused loose, wet soil to liquefy, creating a heavy mud that resulted in massive damage. In Petobo, it is estimated that there are still hundreds of victims buried in mud, Mr Nugroho said. Residents who found loved ones alive and dead over the weekend expressed frustration that it took rescue teams until Monday to reach Petobo. Indonesian soldiers assist earthquake victims (AP) The magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck at dusk on Friday and generated a tsunami said to have been as high as nearly 20ft in places. About 3,000 residents flocked to Palus airport on Monday, trying to board military aircraft or one of the few commercial flights using the facility only partially operating due to damage. Video showed some of them screaming in anger because they were not able to get on a departing military plane. We have not eaten for three days, one woman said. We just want to be safe. Nearly 50,000 people have been displaced from their homes in Palu alone, Mr Nugroho said, and hospitals were overwhelmed. Scenes of destruction at Talise beach in Palu, Central Sulawesi (AP) The Indonesian air force confirmed that a Hercules aircraft carrying an unspecified number of survivors was able to leave Palu for South Sulawesis capital of Makassar. In addition, more than 100 police officers from the capital, Jakarta, were sent to Palu and additional Hercules aircraft carrying soldiers and supplies, including food and water, from east Java were en route, local television reported. President Joko Widodo authorised the acceptance of international help, with generators, heavy equipment and tents were among the most-needed items. The European Union and about 10 other countries have offered assistance, including the US and China. A Chinese destroyer came aggressively close to a US Navy ship in the South China Sea, forcing it to manoeuvre to prevent a collision, American military officials said. The encounter could worsen tensions between the nations, already at odds over a trade dispute. US Pacific Fleet spokesman Lt Cmdr Tim Gorman said the Chinese warship approached the USS Decatur in an unsafe and unprofessional manoeuvre on Sunday near Gaven Reefs in the South China Sea. The Chinese destroyer conducted a series of increasingly aggressive manoeuvres accompanied by warnings for Decatur to depart the area, Lt Cmdr Gorman said. It approached within 45 yards of the Decaturs bow, forcing it to move, Lt Cmdr Gorman said. China claims most of the strategic waterway and has built islands on reefs and equipped them with military facilities such as airstrips, radar domes and missile systems. China has labelled a recent mission by nuclear-capable US B-52 bombers over the disputed South China Sea as `provocative (AP) The Chinese defence ministry said it opposes the US warships entry into the waters around Chinas islands and reefs. It confirmed that the Luoyang, a Chinese missile destroyer, was immediately deployed to identify the US warship and drive it away. The ministry said it strongly urged the US to stop its provocative actions. Relations between the US and China have deteriorated over an escalating trade dispute, but ties have worsened in recent weeks after a US decision to issue economic sanctions over Beijings purchase of Russian fighter jets and surface-to-air missile equipment. The Chinese government said the US had no right to interfere in Chinese military cooperation with Russia. In response to the sanctions, China summoned the American ambassador and defence attache to deliver a protest, and recalled its navy commander from a US trip. US defence secretary Jim Mattis has since dropped plans to visit China in October for talks. Mobile Ballet celebrates its 31st year with a season of freshly choreographed masterpieces under the direction of new Artistic Director Katia Garza. Concert of Legends celebrates many of the world's musical legends with a one-night-only performance Nov. 8 at the Civic Center Theater. Honoring greats such as George Gershwin, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong and more - "Ovation" promises a mix of kinetic energy, exhilarating music and a dynamic fresh production unique to the Mobile stage. More than 30 dancers will join internationally renowned Ballet Master Israel Rodriguez, Eduardo Pi Iglesias and Mobile Ballet Guest Artists. Artistic Director Katia Garza brings fresh choreography to timeless music sure to offer a travel in time... and emotions. December brings the lavish holiday tradition of "The Nutcracker." To the celebrated score from Tchaikovsky, Mobile's Corps de Ballet will feature world renowned Guest Artists including Eduardo Pi Iglesias along with Ballet Master Israel Rodriguez. For the first time, performers will also include dancers from the entire community - with open auditions for traditional favorites including angels, fairies and more. This Mobile favorite includes a Saturday evening performance December 15th and Sunday matinee December 16th. Spring brings Mobile Ballet's final performance March 23-24: "The Little Mermaid." Hans Christian Anderson's magical tale is re-imagined into a dazzling ballet with original choreography from Katia Garza and powerful score by Antonin Dvorak. Mobile Ballet is excited to share this spellbinding new production journeying from the human realm to a mystical underwater world - sure to entrance all ages. "Ovation" - A Concert of Legends: Nov. 8 - 7:30 p.m. One Night Only! "The Nutcracker" - Dec. 15 - 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 16 2:30 p.m. "The Little Mermaid" - March 23 - 7:30 p.m. and March 24 - 2:30 p.m. All performances: Mobile Civic Center Theater/ admission $20-$60 For tickets and additional information contact: (251) 342-2241 or www.mobileballet.org The Mobile Ballet Board of Directors welcomes internationally renowned Katia Garza as its new Artistic Director and School Director. She has just completed an exciting season as guest Artistic Director, producing a newly choreographed "Nutcracker" and "A Midsummer Night's Dream." These performances featured a cast of over 60 local Company members and children from the Mobile Ballet School. Garza is a native of Mexico and joined Ballet de Monterrey in 1995, under the Direction of Fernando Bujones. In 2000, Katia joined the Orlando Ballet as a Principal dancer, a position she held for 14 years. She performed a vast repertoire of roles and was also a finalist in the 2002 International Ballet Competition in Jackson, Mississippi. Mrs. Garza has been the subject of an inspirational documentary Katia Garza My Life in Dance, and has received numerous awards including Outstanding Teacher of the Year from Youth American Grand Prix in 2015 and 2017. Mrs. Garza will also serve as the Director of the Mobile Ballet School. Her talent, vision and love of teaching will greatly benefit our community for years to come. Mobile Ballet is delighted to announce the additional celebrated talents of Israel Rodriguez, Katia's husband, as Ballet Master. Israel was born in Camaguey, Cuba and studied at the famed Vocational Art School. In 1994, Israel became a Principal dancer with Ballet de Monterrey in Mexico. He went on to dance with Orlando Ballet as a Principal dancer where he performed a vast array of classical roles. Israel brings more than 26 years of experience performing, teaching and choreographing all over the world. For Additional Information: Amy Greer Thompson/ Amy Thompson Communications 251.423.7605 amygthompson@att.net Russian Supreme Court overturns $500k fine for former high-ranking investigator Lamonov RIA Novosti, Vladimir Fedorenko 13:12 03/10/2018 MOSCOW, October 3 (RAPSI) The Supreme Court on Wednesday overturned the decision to fine Russias former high-ranking investigator Alexander Lamonov convicted of corruption 32 million rubles (about $500,000), RAPSI reported from the courtroom. However, a 5-year prison sentence given to Lamonov was upheld. On July 26, the Moscow City Court found the former investigative official guilty of taking bribes. Additionally, he was fined 32 million rubles and lost his rank of colonel of justice. Lamonov, ex-First Deputy Head of the Investigative Committees Moscow Directorate, General Denis Nikandrov and ex-chief of the Investigative Committees Internal Security Directorate Mikhail Maksimenko have been arrested and detained as part of a case over extortion of 8 million rubles (about $122,000 at the current exchange rate) that involved an alleged gang leader Zakhariy Kalashov. In addition, investigators believe that they extorted 10 million rubles (about $153,000) from a head of a large joint-stock company. The defendants denied their communications with Kalashov. On April 20, Maksimenko was found guilty of taking two bribes and received 13 years in prison. The defendant was also fined 165 million rubles ($2.5 million). According to prosecutors, in 2016, Maksimenko and his accomplice received $500,000 bribe for help with one of criminal cases. He was also charged with taking $50,000 bribe in 2015 for organizing unlawful criminal prosecution of law enforcement officers in the interests of a bribe-giver. In August, the Moscow City Court sentenced Nikandrov to 5.5 years in prison. The defendant was also prohibited from holding law enforcement posts for 3 years and deprived him of his General rank. He appealed the sentence in the Supreme Court. European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker has issued a fresh warning to Theresa May that there must be agreement on the Irish border if she wants a Brexit deal. Despite the rejection of key elements of Mrs Mays Chequers blueprint for Brexit at last months informal summit in Salzburg, Mr Juncker insisted the EU still wanted an agreement. However, addressing the European Parliament in Strasbourg ahead of the next EU summit in Brussels later this month, he stressed the EU would not compromise on key principles. We will have an interesting meeting as far as Brexit is concerned. We want to have a deal. Those who think a no-deal would be a better solution are not aware of the difficulties such a scenario would imply, he said. When it comes to the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, we are sticking to the point of view we have expressed so many times Ireland first. The summit on October 18 to 19 has been billed as the moment of truth when it will become clear whether it is possible for the two sides to do a deal. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker (Suzanne Plunkett/PA) Mrs May has said the Government is working on new proposals to resolve the issue of the Irish border ensuring there is no need for the return of hard border controls although it is unclear whether they will be ready in time for the Brussels meeting. The parliament also heard renewed criticism of Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt over his comparison of the EU to the former Soviet Union. Manfred Weber, the leader of the main centre right grouping in the parliament, said Mr Hunt needed to apologise for his comments. Now we experience a new level of populism when the foreign minister of Great Britain, Hunt, is comparing the European Union with the Soviet Union, he said. He quoted Polish former foreign minister Radoslaw Sikorski who said: Please Mr Hunt, show us the gulag, please Mr Hunt show us the Soviet Union army troops in your country, please show us the Stasi system in your country. He added: So Sikorski is right. Mr Hunt, you should apologise for what you have said. Democrats are raising new questions about the truthfulness of US supreme court nominee Brett Kavanaughs sworn testimony to the US senate. The move marks a shift in tactics against US president Donald Trumps choice for the highest court in America as all sides await the results of the FBIs background investigation into sexual misconduct allegations. Chuck Schumer, the senate Democrats leader, accused Mr Kavanaugh of delivering a partisan screed during a judiciary committee hearing last week. He said Mr Kavanaugh seemed willing to mislead senators about everything from the momentous to the mundane to ensure his ascension to the court. Mr Schumer said: The harsh fact of the matter is that we have mounting evidence that Judge Kavanaugh is just not credible. Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer raised concerns over Mr Kavanaughs testimony (AP) However, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell said the Democrats are simply looking to move the goalposts to prevent Mr Kavanaughs confirmation. He pledged that the full US senate would begin voting on Mr Kavanaughs nomination this week. Mr McConnell said: The time for endless delay and obstruction has come to a close. Mr Kavanaughs confirmation hinges on a handful of key Republican and Democratic senators who have not yet fully tipped their votes. One of them is Republican Jeff Flake of Arizona, who was greeted by hundreds of liberal protesters, victims of sexual assault among them, during an appearance on Monday in Boston. Mr Flake and senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska were instrumental last week in holding up Mr Kavanaughs confirmation vote. Senator Jeff Flake (AP) They forced the White House to open a supplemental background investigation of sexual misconduct allegations against the judge. The votes of the three Republicans and those of red-state Democrats Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota will largely determine whether Mr Kavanaugh is confirmed. Mr Flake said he would ensure it is a real investigation by the FBI as Democrats demanded that Mr Trump give them a full readout of his instructions to the agency. It does us no good to have an investigation that just gives us more cover, Mr Flake said. Ms Heitkamp, meanwhile, noted that Mr Trump himself called for a broader FBI investigation into the allegations. She said: Im waiting to see what the results are. Mr Kavanaugh has emphatically denied Christine Blasey Fords allegation that he sexually assaulted her at a gathering when they were teenagers. He has also denied an accusation from Deborah Ramirez, a classmate at Yale, who said he exposed himself to her at a dorm party more than 25 years ago. A third claim from Julia Swetnick, who is represented by attorney Michael Avenatti accuses Mr Kavanaugh of excessive drinking and inappropriate treatment of women at parties in the early 1980s. Mr Kavanaugh denies that as well. Democrats have seized most recently on Mr Kavanaughs indignant, emotional testimony before the judiciary committee to question whether he has the temperament for a lifetime appointment on the nations highest court. In particular, Democrats have homed in on his contention that the allegations against him are an orchestrated political hit funded by left-wing groups seeking revenge on behalf of the Clintons. Senator Mazie Hirono, a Democrat from Hawaii, asked: Were going to put a conspiracy theory believer on the court? Democrats are also questioning Mr Kavanaughs honesty, particularly over statements he made about his drinking in high school and college after a former classmate at Yale said he was a frequent, heavy drinker. Tolls on the two Severn bridges will be scrapped before Christmas, the Welsh Secretary announced on Tuesday. Alun Cairns told the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham flee-flow traffic will now be introduced two weeks ahead of schedule on December 17 this year. Tolls on the original Severn Crossing have been in place since 1966, and introduced on the second crossing, renamed the Prince of Wales Bridge back in April, when it was opened 30 years later in 1996. The current fee for a car crossing from the West of England into South Wales is 5.60, and regular commuters are expected to save more than 1,400 a year. Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns said scrapping the tolls would see regular commuters save 1,400 per year (Ben Birchall/PA) The toll was reduced on New Years Day 2018 after the bridges were returned to public ownership, but the Government resisted calls to immediately abolish crossing fees. Mr Cairns said scrapping of the tolls will provide an immediate benefit of over 100m per year for Wales, and over a billion pounds of economic benefit over the next decade. Mr Cairns said in a statement: My number one aim when I became Secretary of State for Wales, was to do away with tolling that for half a century has restricted and distorted the growth and connections of the Welsh economy. Wales will be more open for business than ever after the Conservatives deliver on this commitment. Scrapping tolls before the festive period is an early Christmas present for hard working commuters who will be 1,400 per year better off. This is just the start of my plan to pursue yet more growth for a stronger and a better-connected Wales. Scrapping the Severn tolls is an example of the Conservatives ensuring that all four nations of the UK thrive after Brexit, in doing so, transforming the joint economic prospects of South Wales and the West of England. A statement from Prime Minister Theresa May said: By abolishing tolls for 25 million annual journeys between two nations, the Conservatives are sending a positive, open for business message. Toll free, free flow journeys between both communities will drive further economic benefits to all areas surrounding the crossings and the key economic centres in Cardiff, Bath, Bristol, Newport and across to Swansea and West Wales. The Queen jokes about how she is not built for sitting cross-legged in a documentary about her global role. In the second part of ITVs Queen Of The World, the monarch is seen chatting about a trip she made to the Pacific island of Tonga. She recalls how she was welcomed with a performance of Polynesian nose flutes, and that she found it difficult to sit cross-legged, as is the custom in Tonga. Asked by Elizabeth Kite, winner of a Queens Young Leaders Award, if she enjoyed her time in Tonga, the Queen replies: It was wonderful. We had people playing the nose flute outside the window. Just the most extraordinary thing. Sounds awfully uncomfortable but they play it rather well The only thing I found difficult was sitting cross-legged. She adds: Its quite painful for people who are not built in the same direction. The Queen was welcomed to Tonga in 1953 by Queen Salote, who held a great open-air feast in her honour, where guests sat cross-legged around long, low tables. The monarch, who has been head of state for 66 years, also talks of how she has met an awful lot of people in her role. She says of Tonga: I havent met the new (king). But, you see, I havent been for such a long time. Ive met an awful lot of people. The clip also shows the Queen taking charge and making sure everything is running smoothly for the audience with the Queens Young Leaders, by directing a member of staff to open a door. Can you open it? No, no this door push it, push it open, thank you. Otherwise they cant get in! she says with a smile. On another occasion, she is shown helping the Governor General of Papua New Guinea after knighting him, directing him: Turn around the other way, because thats where the cameras are. The two part series examines the Queens role as head of the Commonwealth. Queen Of The World concludes on Tuesday October 2 at 9pm on ITV. A 22-year-old man has admitted stabbing his mother to death in their family home. Thomas Fisher pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility at Lewes Crown Court on Tuesday after Fiona Fisher was found dead at their East Sussex home in April. Police found the body of the 51-year-old former LOccitane shop manager at the house in Lordswell Lane, Crowborough, after being called to check on her welfare. She died from a single stab wound in the chest, police said. Fiona Fisher was found dead at her home in Lordswell Lane, Crowborough (Sussex Police/PA) Fisher was due to stand trial on Monday accused of murder but the proceedings were postponed until he appeared in court on Tuesday when his alternative plea to manslaughter was accepted. He admitted killing her sometime between April 25 and 27, and also pleaded guilty to fraud after using a Marks & Spencer Mastercard in his mothers name as well as driving while disqualified. Fisher, who wore a grey sweatshirt and had a spikey haircut with copper-blond highlights, remained emotionless throughout the short hearing. He appeared in the dock flanked by a custody officer and three psychiatric nurses as relatives sat behind him in the public gallery. In a quiet, barely audible voice, he spoke only to confirm his name and enter the pleas. Matthew Jewell QC, prosecuting, said two psychiatrists involved in the case had studied a diary written by the defendant. He said: There is a journal or diary that was being kept by the defendant. Both psychiatrists concluded that it offers significant insight into his state of mind leading up to the events. That is the type of evidence that is not open to change. He added that, although Fisher was due to stand trial for murder, after consultation with the family it was decided his alternative plea was acceptable to the prosecution. Thomas Fisher appeared at Lewes Crown Court (Tom Pugh/PA) Judge Christine Laing QC adjourned the proceedings for psychiatric reports to be prepared. Fisher was remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced on November 1. At the time of her death, Mrs Fishers family described her as irreplaceable. A statement released on their behalf by police said: Fiona will be sadly missed by her daughter Megan, her mother Dorothy and stepfather Les, as well as her father. There are no words to explain the love those around her felt for her, she is irreplaceable. LOccitane said the company was deeply saddened by the loss of a friend and former co-worker. She worked at the Tunbridge Wells branch of the cosmetics and beauty store, according to her LinkedIn profile. An exhibition about revolutionary anti-slavery campaigner Frederick Douglass is going on show at the National Library of Scotland to mark the 200th anniversary of his birth. The display features letters, speeches and photographs loaned from the Walter O. and Linda Evans Collection, which until now have never been seen by the public. Frederick Douglass started life as Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey when he was born into chattel slavery in Maryland in 1818. In freedom, his new surname was inspired by Sir James Douglas from Sir Walter Scotts The Lady of the Lake. The exhibition tells the story of Frederick Douglass as a private individual and family man (Walter O. and Linda Evans Collection/PA He visited Scotland twice as he campaigned against slavery, first arriving in Edinburgh in January 1846. He was immediately appointed Scotlands antislavery agent and toured the countrys cities, towns and villages between 184647 and again in 185960. Walter O. Evans, a collector and conservator of African American art, history and culture, personally delivered the material to the Library in August, and returns to Edinburgh later this week for the launch of Strike for Freedom: Slavery, Civil War and the Frederick Douglass Family. Dr Evans said: I am pleased that the letters, papers and photographs from my Douglass collection are being exhibited at the National Library of Scotland. Douglass loved Scotland and I can think of no better place or time to exhibit this material than in Edinburgh on the 200-year anniversary of his birth. The display tells the story of Douglass as a private individual and family man and features manuscripts, letters, speeches and photographs of Frederick Douglass and his sons, Lewis Henry, Frederick Jr, and Charles Remond. Celeste-Marie Bernier, the University of Edinburghs professor of black studies and personal chair in English literature, is guest curator. She said: For the first time, Strike for Freedom tells the story of the revolutionary activism not only of Frederick Douglass world-famous freedom-fighter, liberator and human rights campaigner but of his family members. Douglasss wife, Anna Murray; daughters, Rosetta and Annie; sons, Lewis Henry, Frederick Jr; and Charles Remond all sacrificed everything they had in working towards a new dawn of freedom. The display also shows that Douglass was not alone in his journey to Scotland, and examines his work with Scottish antislavery societies. He was joined by a number of African-American freedom-fighters who travelled to Scotland in their campaigns to abolish slavery, segregation and lynchlaw, including Ida B Wells-Barnett, Amanda Smith, Josiah Henson, Moses Roper, and Ellen and William Craft. National Librarian Dr John Scally said: We are very pleased to host this world-first display of material related to Frederick Douglass, alongside material from our collections. The exhibition sheds new light on Douglasss time here in Scotland in the mid-19th century, as well as providing insight into the work of the wider Douglass family as they campaigned for social justice in the US. The exhibition runs from Thursday October 4 to Saturday February 16. Theresa May has sparked a backlash from police after she insisted there is no direct causation between officer numbers and crime levels. One rank-and-file leader described the Prime Ministers claim as deluded and accused her of misleading the public. Mrs May told ITV News: Theres no direct causation between police numbers and levels of crime. But I recognise that we are seeing this problem in relation to violent crime, in relation to knife crime in particular. Thats why the Government is acting. She added: I think what people want to see is to make sure action is being taken, not just to deal with the potential for crime on the streets but actually to try to stop that from happening in the first place. However, her assertion on officer numbers was challenged by John Apter, chairman of the Police Federation of England and Wales. The Prime Minister is misleading the public with such statements. With police officer numbers at such low numbers and crime increasing its time the PM took personal responsibility for her mistakes and reverse the cuts and start giving the public the policing they deserve. https://t.co/rgc4nF16qs John Apter (@PFEW_Chair) October 1, 2018 He said on Twitter: The Prime Minister is misleading the public with such statements. Speaking to LBCs Nick Ferrari, Mr Apter said austerity had gone too far and warned policing is in crisis. He said: The demand that my colleagues are facing is unprecedented. When I hear the Prime Minister say that there is no correlation between the drop in police officer numbers and the increase in crime shes deluded. (PA Graphics) Forces staffing levels have come under intense scrutiny amid mounting concern over serious violence. At the end of March, there were 122,404 police officers in England and Wales, the lowest number since comparable records started in 1996. Police-recorded crime hit the highest level in more than a decade in 2017/18, after rises in homicides, knife offences and robberies. However, estimates of violent offending as measured by the separate Crime Survey for England and Wales were unchanged. Last month, a major report from Whitehalls spending watchdog warned that arrest rates and victim satisfaction levels are on the slide amid signs police are struggling to deliver an effective service. Separate analysis by the Press Association revealed that hundreds of thousands of residential burglary, vehicle theft and shoplifting investigations are closed without a suspect being identified. Home Secretary Sajid Javid has pledged to prioritise police funding in the next spending review. Boris Johnson has delivered a speech which many see as part of an effort to replace Theresa May as party leader after he publicly branded her Brexit plans deranged. Heres the latest: 1.36pm Mr Johnson said agreeing the Chequers proposals would embolden those calling for a second referendum. He said: These are the same people, incidentally, who explicitly told the electorate that there was no going back, that voting leave meant leaving the customs union and the single market, and that there was no way they would be asked again. Boris Johnson warned against leaving with a deal that was less than perfect and then hoping to fix it later - a move Environment Secretary Michael Gove has floated (Aaron Chown/PA) 1.34pm Mr Johnson said Chequers is a constitutional outrage. This is not pragmatic, that is not a compromise. It is dangerous and unstable politically and economically. He won applause as he said: My fellow Conservatives, this is not democracy. This is not what we voted for. It is a constitutional outrage. This is not taking back control: it is forfeiting control. They know it in Brussels. Boris this is not a leadership bid Johnson attacking Labour & not even remembering that he & his party have driven down living standards to the worst levels in recent memory. We deserve better. Our children deserve better. We desperately need a Labour Gov. #CPC18 #BorisJohnson Jo Platt (@JoPlattLeigh) October 2, 2018 1.31pm Mr Johnson said the EU will always be colossally important but the rest of the world is proportionally gaining ground. He said: Think what we could do with proper free trade deals. And that is why it is so sad, so desperately wrong, that we are preparing to agree terms with Brussels that would make it difficult if not impossible to do such deals. And that is why it is such a mistake for us to leave on the Chequers terms, locked in the tractor beam of Brussels. We will not only be prevented from offering our tariff schedules, we will be unable to make our own laws, to vary our regulatory framework for goods, agrifoods and much much more besides. This is politically humiliating for a 2 trillion economy. Turns out there is a plan. That plan is Boris. #brexit James Duddridge MP (@JamesDuddridge) October 2, 2018 1.22pm Mr Johnson called for the party to follow its Conservative instincts and give millions more young people the chance to become owner-occupiers. He called for a crackdown on landbanking and encouragement for small private builders. Mr Johnson said the big eight house-builders were abusing their dominant position. He said councils should be given the ability to retain stamp duty, council tax, and business rates, which would act as a motive for growth. Stanley Johnson and Rachel Johnson take a selfie (Stefan Rousseau/PA) 1.16pm Mr Johnson said: There is only one thing I really worry about in this critical autumn of 2018, and that is that, after 200 years, this oldest and most successful of all political parties should somehow lose confidence in its basic belief in freedom. And that, after 1,000 years of independence, this country might really lose confidence in its democratic institutions. And that we should be so demoralised and so exhausted as to submit those institutions forever to foreign rule. Boris makes his point (Aaron Chown/PA) 1.15pm Mr Johnson won applause as he said: We cannot, we must not and will not let this weaselly cabal of superannuated Marxists and Hugo Chavez-admiring, anti-Semitism-condoning Kremlin apologists anywhere near the government of this country. 1.11pm Mr Johnson used his speech to launch an attack on Jeremy Corbyns Labour: Surely to goodness we can take on this Tony Benn tribute act and wallop them for six. Not by imitating them, not by capering insincerely on Labour turf but by systematically pointing out the damage they would do. 1.08pm Mr Johnson arrived in the conference centre to be greeted by a scrum of reporters and cameras. The former foreign secretary did not answer questions from the pack as he was followed through the building. Former Brexit secretary David Davis is here, along with @SteveBakerHW - both resigned over Chequers before @BorisJohnson pic.twitter.com/waMMQYyLk1 David Hughes (@DavidHughesPA) October 2, 2018 1.06pm Dismissing the significance of Mr Johnsons speech, business minister Claire Perry told Sky News: Its a travelling circus that comes to town. He thrives on publicity, he doesnt have a policy backbone anywhere on him. Who doesnt want to see the court jester arrive? But behind the scenes all the deadly serious work of delivering Brexit goes on. A fan wears a Boris Johnson t-shirt at the event (Aaron Chown/PA) 1.01pm Former Brexit secretary David Davis sat on the front row to listen to his ex-Cabinet colleagues speech. 1pm Home Secretary Sajid Javid was one Tory MP who was not tuning into Mr Johnsons speech, saying he was going for some lunch. A line of delegates waiting to get into the Boris Johnsons fringe event (Stefan Rousseau/PA) 12.43pm Other Tory MPs in the audience for Mr Johnsons speech included Zac Goldsmith, Peter Bone, ex-Brexit minister Steve Baker and Andrew Bridgen. Stanley Johnson spoke to reporters on his arrival at the conference (Aaron Chown/PA) 12.30pm Former Cabinet ministers Priti Patel and Owen Paterson, along with Mr Johnsons father Stanley, were among the crowd in the 1,500-capacity hall waiting for the speech. Lengthy queue already forming for @BorisJohnson - hes not due to speak until 1pm. pic.twitter.com/WE4EsIsNoB David Hughes (@DavidHughesPA) October 2, 2018 11.20am Colin Belsey, 73, a councillor from Eastbourne, said if Mr Johnson had been a gentleman he wouldnt have come. But he has come, so be it, and therell be several hundred-odd people wanting to listen to him, thats fine, but I wont be rushing out there to listen to him. Karen May, a councillor from Bromsgrove, told the Press Association: Hes entitled to be here as a party member Im more concerned we get this wretched Brexit deal and its constructive and we dont get the distraction of sideplays. Welcoming committee of Brexiteers for @BorisJohnson at #cpc18 - he ignores my question about whether his presence here is undermining @theresa_may pic.twitter.com/t22paaBzjd David Hughes (@DavidHughesPA) October 2, 2018 11am Anti-Brexit campaigner Steven Bray, from Bridgend, used a loudhailer to heckle Mr Johnson through a security fence as he arrived at the conference hotel. Come and collect your prize for biggest liar ever, shouted Mr Bray, a member of the Stand Of Defiance European Movement who regularly demonstrates outside Parliament. Not everyone was pleased to see @BorisJohnson arrive at the Conservative conference... (Note: includes strong language) #CPC18 pic.twitter.com/iu25Pm3Lf9 Andrew Woodcock (@AndyWoodcock) October 2, 2018 10.49am Party members arriving at the conference welcomed Mr Johnsons attendance. Barbara Tan, from Virginia Water, said the former foreign secretary has something that warms the cockles of everyone. People love him. Hes a Conservative right through and through, she told the Press Association. 10.42am An anti-Brexit protester waving a Union Flag and the EUs standard loitered outside the fence surrounding the conference venue as reporters and photographers waited for Boris Johnsons arrival. A group of Brexiteer MPs including Ross Thomson, Ben Bradley, Anne-Marie Trevelyan and Andrea Jenkyns were present to meet him. As he arrived, accompanied by fellow Brexiteer Conor Burns, Mr Johnson ignored questions about whether his presence was undermining Theresa May. Boris in contemplative mood as he arrives (Stefan Rousseau/PA) 10.26am Boris Johnsons father Stanley said he hoped his son would give an invigorating speech that draws a considerable crowd. Despite being a Remain campaigner, Stanley Johnson said the former foreign secretary was 100% right about Chequers, hitting out at the way it would leave the UK bound by EU rules without a seat at the table. Stanley Johnson said: Boris used the word deranged. I think that is almost too gentle a term. Stanley Johnson (left) said his son Boris was right on Brexit (PA) 10.24am Theresa May sought to play down Mr Johnsons arrival at the conference, saying of his speech: Im sure thats going to be a very lively event. At this conference what were focusing on is the opportunity for this country once we leave the European Union and the opportunity that we want to ensure that people in this country have. The chief executive of the Co-operation Ireland peace building charity has said the expression paramilitary should be scrapped. Peter Sheridan said use of the term runs the risk of legitimising so-called paramilitaries influence on communities when they were simply organised criminals with no connection to the conflict. Police have said thousands of small businesses are being extorted by gangs in Northern Ireland. Cooperation Ireland chief executive Peter Sheridan has called for the expression paramilitary to be scrapped, since it risks legitimising organised crime gangs. Cooperation Ireland/PA. Mr Sheridan said: It is about turf wars, it is about internal feuding, it is about ordinary criminality it is nothing to do with the conflict that they are involved in. Yet we continue to separate out these two things as if they are somehow different. We have to get to a stage that paramilitary beatings are assaults like any other assault that happens out in society. I dont know what they are doing that is helping or assisting their communities most of it is about lining their own pockets. Mr Sheridan, a former senior police officer, works with communities emerging from conflict and helps instil a culture of lawfulness. He pointed out that although it was 20 years since the ceasefire, these organisations are still on the ground, with their activities apparent through so-called punishment attacks, drug dealing, racketeering and extortion. He added: We need to re-brand Northern Ireland, We are the only community that I know of that talks about paramilitary organised crime as if they are somehow separate. Post-1998 and the Good Friday Agreement, thereafter people are, in my view, in organised crime gangs. He said a paramilitary murder was a murder the same as in other parts of the UK, and a paramilitary assault is the same as any assault anywhere. Somehow when we treat them differently we run the risk of legitimising it in some peoples eyes. An Organised Crime Task Force report published on Tuesday has highlighted the problem of extortion. Under-threat traders, often in working-class loyalist or republican areas, are the least able to pay illegal taxes imposed by paramilitary thugs, Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Detective Superintendent Bobby Singleton said. Many do not report the intimidation, which is supporting lavish crime lord lifestyles. Mr Singleton added: Those operating in working-class communities across the country (are) struggling to make ends meet and having to pay this totally illegal taxation to paramilitary thugs. Extortion is under-reported but, based on intelligence, Mr Singleton said it was an extensive problem across Northern Ireland. Organised criminals are targeting legitimate businesses in working-class areas as well as drug dealers seeking the right to operate in the areas they control, he added. Mr Singleton said: It is a key point of how paramilitaries generate their funds and support their lifestyles. He said the extortion was worth thousands of pounds if not millions. Around 100 organised crime gangs are operating in Northern Ireland a quarter with links to paramilitaries and most deal in the lucrative and low-risk drugs trade, Mr Singleton added. Sinn Fein has accused the DUP of showing a reckless disregard for the Good Friday Agreement after leader Arlene Foster claimed the peace deal was not sacrosanct. Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald insisted the 1998 accord between the UK and Irish Governments must not become a bargaining chip in the Brexit negotiations. She reacted angrily after Mrs Foster suggested the terms of the agreement could be altered in efforts to strike an EU exit deal. Todays comments by DUP leader Arlene Foster on the Good Friday Agreement are unacceptable and reveal a reckless disregard for the peace process, prosperity and progress, said Mrs McDonald. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has called on the Irish Government to protect the terms of the Good Friday Agreement (Niall Carson/PA) Critics of Brexit on the island of Ireland have warned of its potential to undermine aspects of the international treaty, including its provisions for cross-border co-operation and rights protections. The DUP campaigned against the Good Friday Agreement when it was resoundingly endorsed in referenda on both sides of the border in 1998. Elements of the deal have been altered by subsequent political agreements in Northern Ireland, such as the 2006 St Andrews Agreement. In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, Mrs Foster said: It has been deeply frustrating to hear people who voted Remain and in Europe talk about Northern Ireland as though we cant touch the Belfast Agreement. Things evolve, even in the EU context. There has been a lot of misinterpretation, holding it up as a sacrosanct piece of legislation. In response, Mrs McDonald called on the Irish Government to make clear that the terms of the deal would be protected. It should be remembered that Arlene Foster left the UUP, which supported the Good Friday Agreement, to join the anti-agreement DUP, she added. It appears the DUP leader has learnt nothing over the past 15 years. Brexit is incompatible with the Good Friday Agreement. The actions of the DUP and their deal with the Tories is bad for our economy and undermines the rights of citizen The latest row between the DUP and Sinn Fein comes amid the ongoing political impasse in Northern Ireland following the collapse of the powersharing institutions in early 2017. The Good Friday Agreement was endorsed by the vast majority of people north and south, said the Sinn Fein president. It is the peoples agreement and not a chip to be bargained with as part of any Tory/DUP Brexit deal. Brexit is incompatible with the Good Friday Agreement. The actions of the DUP and their deal with the Tories is bad for our economy and undermines the rights of citizens. The DUP should commit to the full implementation of the Good Friday, and other agreements, rather than seeking to undermine them. This would unlock the pathway to re-establishing the political institutions and safeguarding the interests of all the people in the north. President Putin proposes commutation of punishment for extremism RIA Novosti, Vladimir Fedorenko 11:25 03/10/2018 MOSCOW, October 3 (RAPSI) Russian President Vladimir Putin has submitted a bill mitigating punishment for extremism and incitement of hatred and enmity to the lower house of parliament, according to the State Duma database. Under the bill, criminal punishment would be imposed for extremist acts in public, on the Internet or media committed repeatedly within a year. The first extremist violation is to be punished in accordance with the Code of Administrative Offences by fines of up to 500,000 rubles ($7,600) for companies; and fines of up to 20,000 rubles, community service for up to 100 hours or detention for up to 15 days for individuals. Currently, criminal punishment is applied for the first extremist violation. In September, the Supreme Court of Russia in its Plenum resolution explained that courts considering extremism cases should proceed from a level of public danger and hazard mode. The Criminal Code of Russia attracts a criminal sentence for incitement of enmity but not for reposts on social networks. If a publication is extremist, malice of the repost must be proven, the Supreme Courts Judge Vladimir Davydov said during the Plenums session. Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatiana Moskalkova in turn stated that criminal sentence including imprisonment is disproportionately tough punishment for unintentional likes and reposts. The Government is to change the law to enable heterosexual couples to enter into civil partnerships, Theresa May has announced. Ministers said the move, announced at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham, was an important step forward for equality. It follows a Supreme Court ruling that legislation on civil partnerships, which are currently open only to same-sex couples, was in breach of the European Convention on Human Rights. The Government said extending them to opposite-sex couples in England and Wales would provide greater security for those who wanted legal recognition for their relationship but did not want to get married. In a statement Mrs May said: This change in the law helps protect the interests of opposite-sex couples who want to commit, want to formalise their relationship but dont necessarily want to get married. As home secretary, I was proud to sponsor the legislation that created equal marriage. Theresa May arrives at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham. (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Now, by extending civil partnerships, we are making sure that all couples, be they same-sex or opposite-sex, are given the same choices in life. Melania Trump has arrived in Ghana to open her first major solo international trip as US first lady. She landed in the capital Accra on Tuesday morning after an overnight flight from Washington and was welcomed to the West African nation with dancing and drumming and schoolchildren waving mini US and Ghanaian flags. Melania Trump embraces flower girl Lillian Naa Adai Sai, eight, as she arrives at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, Ghana (Carolyn Kaster/AP) Ghanas first lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, welcomed her American counterpart. Mrs Trump also accepted a bouquet of flowers from an eight-year-old girl before walking along a red carpet into an airport lounge for a brief meeting with Ms Akufo-Addo. The US first lady plans to visit a hospital neonatal intensive care unit before going to the presidential palace for tea with Ms Akufo-Addo. Melania Trump is greeted by Rebecca Akufo-Addo (Carolyn Kaster/AP) President Donald Trumps wife plans to promote child welfare during the five-day, four-nation tour. She will also visit Malawi, Kenya and Egypt. Any attempt to keep Britain tied to EU customs rules on goods after 2020 would be an utter disgrace, leading Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg has warned. Mr Rees-Mogg was responding to unconfirmed reports in The Times suggesting Prime Minister Theresa May is preparing to limit Britains ability to strike free-trade deals after Brexit in a bid to break deadlock in negotiations. The chairman of the European Research Group (ERG) of Eurosceptic Tories said any extension of the customs union beyond the end of the 21-month transition period following Brexit would be the most serious breach of trust between the Government and the governed I can imagine. At #CPC18 @Jacob_Rees_Mogg tells the European Research Group that #Chequers offers "worse servitude, worse vassalage than we we have already got" #Brexit pic.twitter.com/KwFYgbXcPt Andrew Woodcock (@AndyWoodcock) October 2, 2018 Speaking to a meeting of the ERG on the fringe of the Conservative conference in Birmingham, Mr Rees-Mogg claimed some Cabinet ministers had very much left the door open for the super-Canada option preferred by himself and Boris Johnson. He even claimed Chancellor Philip Hammond was not ruling out a Canadian-style free trade deal, despite also warning: There are some forces within the state that are desperate to stop (Brexit) and they seem to be centred around 11 Downing Street. Mr Rees-Mogg warned that a Brexit in name only known to Brexiteers as Brino would hand power to Jeremy Corbyns Labour. Jacob Rees-Mogg (Aaron Chown/PA) If the Times story was right, that is not Brexit, that is Remain and it is an utter disgrace, he said. Not only would it be a disgrace in terms of what I as a Leaver believe, it would be dishonourable in terms of what was promised to the British electorate. It would mean the manifesto I stood for Parliament on was not meant. If the customs union was extended in this way it would open the door to 10 Downing Street for one Jeremy Corbyn because Conservative voters would simply not turn out to vote, he warned. Seventy per cent of Tory voters are committed to Brexit. They will feel deeply let down if Brexit is not delivered or if it is Brino Brexit in name only. Those of us who get accused of standing too firm for Brexit and therefore making it easier for Jeremy Corbyn are not the ones who ought to be criticised, because what we are doing by keeping faith with the British electorate is ensuring the Conservatives can be in a position to win the next election. Mr Rees-Mogg said opponents of Mrs Mays Chequers plan can vote it down in Parliament without fear of triggering a general election which Labour might win, because fixed-term legislation meant it could not be treated as a confidence vote. The Fixed-Term Parliaments Act means people like me can vote against Chequers with a clear conscience, he said. Mr Rees-Mogg insisted he continues to support Mrs May as leader, although he criticised her for saying that Leave backers had voted with their hearts in 2016. I dont know about you, but I voted with my head as well, he said. He made clear he would favour tax cuts following Brexit, saying he wanted the UK to become not a tax haven but a tax heaven. He said Brexit would not stop him drinking French wine, winning laughs as he recalled how his son had asked him: Daddy, if we leave the EU where will you get your claret from? The meeting was held in a hotel outside the conference secure zone and did not feature in the official programme of events. Mr Rees-Mogg said the ERGs room booking inside the conference centre was mysteriously cancelled when it became clear who it was for. Politicians who fail to make the case for the UK remaining in Europes single market will be guilty of a serious dereliction of duty, the chair of the prestigious Russell Group of universities has warned. Economist and University of Glasgow principal Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli said a hard Brexit which would remove Britain from both the single market and the customs union would be the most unhinged example of national self-sabotage in living memory. Faced with these difficulties, he argued politicians must show leadership which stands up against the fevered ideological goals of hardline Brexiteers. The UKs departure from the European Union (EU) has exposed bitter divisions in the Conservative Party, with those such as former foreign secretary Boris Johnson deeply critical of Theresa May and her Chequers plan. Prof Sir Anton also said the PMs proposals which have failed to win the support of EU leaders were dead, branding them an ex-plan. Talking today at @glasgowCC #Brexit Summit highlighting the economic chaos of Brexit and calling for membership of the single market. #GCCBrexitSummit pic.twitter.com/0zWbg1pj0E Anton Muscatelli (@UofGVC) October 2, 2018 The academic, speaking at a Brexit summit organised by Glasgow City Council, was also sceptical about a so-called blind Brexit where a deal is done in principle between the UK and the EU, but without all the final details being resolved. Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli has wanred politicians that history will judge them if they pursue a hard Brexit. (Gordon Terris/PA) Prof Sir Anton, who is also the chair of the Scottish Governments Standing Council on Europe advisory body, said: It would be tempting to try and take some comfort in the possibilities afforded by a blind Brexit to kick it into the long grass and tell ourselves that sanity will prevail and a softer Brexit deal will emerge in time. But a blind Brexit is no cause for blind optimism. To me, that is the equivalent of a child covering their eyes when watching a horror movie. The horrors of a hard Brexit are still going to be there when we open our eyes unless we do something about it. He continued: In my view, a hard Brexit would represent the most unhinged example of national self-sabotage in living memory and everyone in public life has a duty, a moral obligation, to do what we can to prevent it. While he accepted it could be difficult for politicians to put the country before their party, Prof Sir Anton said: When we are faced with the economic calamity bearing down upon us now, failure to do so would have gravest economic consequences for millions of people. As an economist, I may judge these politicians harshly but I can assure them that the judgement of historians will be significantly harsher. He backed the sensible and credible proposals put forward by Nicola Sturgeons Scottish Government to keep the UK in both the single market and the customs union. And while he said there would be inherent difficulties in getting such a deal though the House of Commons, he added that given the scale of the economic and social disaster about to unfold on ordinary people across this city and across the country, we have the right to expect an effort to be made the right, in short, to expect leadership. Prof Sir Anton insisted: Any politician refusing to try who wont even attempt to soften the pain of Brexit by making the case for single market membership which all logic tells them is the right thing to do is guilty of a serious dereliction of duty. And if their failure of leadership sets our economy and our society back for generations, history will judge them very harshly indeed. India will deport seven Rohingya immigrants, who have been staying in Assam illegally, to their home country Myanmar on Thursday. This is for the first time Rohingya immigrants would be sent back to Myanmar from India. Snuffing out their last hope of preventing their deportation, the Supreme Court rejected urgent hearing on this matter, raised by lawyer Prashant Bhushan. The seven Rohingya immigrants will be handed over to Myanmar authorities at Moreh border post in Manipur Thursday, a Home Ministry official said. The illegal immigrants have been staying at a detention centre in Silchar, Assam, since 2012, after they were detained by police. Consular access had been given to Myanmar diplomats, who confirmed the identity of the immigrants, the official said. Another official said the confirmation of the Myanmarese citizenship of the illegal immigrants came after the Government of the neighbouring country verified their addresses in Rakhine State. Home Ministry told Parliament last year that more than 14,000 Rohingyas, registered with the UN refugee agency UNHCR, stay in India. However, aid agencies estimate there are about 40,000 Rohingya people in the country. A Supreme court Bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, which made it clear to lawyers lead by Prashant Bhushan at the outset that it will not allow urgent mentioning of matters till the framing of parameters on such cases, said it would take a decision on urgent hearing in this issue after perusing the application. The Bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, was told by Bhushan that some Rohingya refugees were on the verge of being deported and the matter required urgent hearing. No mentioning. We will work out the parameters then we will see as to how mentioning will be done, said the Bench, adding that matters like execution of a death row convict, eviction cases can be heard urgently. Initially, the Bench asked Bhushan to file the plea and on being told that the application has already been filed, it said, We will peruse the file and the decide. The fresh plea has been filed challenging the decision of the Centre to deport seven Rohingya immigrants. The PIL was filed earlier by two Rohingya immigrants -- Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir -- challenging the Centres decision to deport over 40,000 refugees who came to India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination and violence against the community. Deaths caused by diphtheria are refusing to subside as three more children succumbed to the highly infectious disease at North Delhi Municipal Corporation (NMC) run Maharishi Valmiki Infectious Diseases Hospital. With this, the toll this year has risen to 57 so far out of which 56 belong to the civic hospital. As far as the NMC run hospital is concerned, around 200 patients of diphtheria were admitted in the month of September and 8 more, one from Delhi and 7 from other states were admitted between Monday and Tuesday. Out of these 8 new admissions, 3 have been declared dead, said a senior NMC official. Out of the three fresh deaths, 1 patient belonged to Delhi while two belonged to other states, he added. The status report released by the corporation reveals that 62 patients are presently being treated in the wards of the hospital. According to the report, the total number of deaths taken place in the month of September and October so far is 29 out of which 28 have been reported in the hospital. One death took place at Delhi government run Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital in the month of September. Among the 28 deaths recorded at the hospital, 6 victims belonged to Delhi while 22 belonged to the other states, the report stated. Soon after the Bahujan Samaj Party dumped the Congress and announced to contest the Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan assembly polls alone, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav gave a pep talk to the Congress, asking it to be large hearted and inclusive for carrying along all like-minded parties. Congress was delaying the issue of alliance for assembly polls in MP, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh with like-minded parties. This was creating confusion among smaller parties. It is the duty of the Congress to act as an elder brother in the alliance but they seem to have other priorities, Akhilesh Yadav said in a statement issued in Lucknow on Wednesday. The SP president said that due to the delay in the announcement of alliance, other parties were announcing their candidates. The SP chief defended the BSP saying, A deliberate lie is being spread that the BSP chief is under pressure from Central government or Central investigation agencies. At the same time, I must say that the Congress too is a good political outfit. Akhilesh Yadav has been visiting MP frequently and addressing public meetings there, and has asked the partys state leadership to select candidates for the assembly polls. Meanwhile, Akhilesh slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party governments at the Centre and in Uttar Pradesh for ignoring the plight of farmers. When farmers raise their voice for genuine demands, they are honoured with lathis by the BJP government, he commented. Reacting to the recent suicide by officers in the BJP rule in UP, the SP chief said that Lalitpur sub-divisional magistrate shot himself as he was under immense pressure. Governance in UP has slipped from bad to worse. The situation is such that now if anyone travelling in a car does not stop, then he/she may be shot, Akhilesh said, referring to the murder of Apple executive Vivek Tiwari by two constables in Lucknow. The recovery of the body of a Bajrang Dal leader created tension in Mahoba on Wednesday while in Shamli, unidentified miscreants opened fire at policemen and looted their weapons in the late hours of Tuesday. Deputy superintendent of police in Mahoba, Jitendra Dubey, told local media persons that the mutilated body of Subhash Nagar ward co-ordinator of Bajrang Dal, Rahul Verma, who was missing from his home since afternoon, was recovered from Vijay Sagar road on Tuesday night. As the news of recovery of Vermas body spread, Bajrang Dal activists created a ruckus at the hospital where autopsy was being conducted. The DySP said that the motive behind the murder was not known but the family members had lodged an FIR naming five youths of Kanshi Ram Colony. The FIR said that Rahul had a dispute with these youths three days back. Police are investigating the case. A large police force has been deployed in the city to avert any violence. In Shamli, two miscreants riding a motorcycle opened fire at police personnel, injuring one of them seriously, and looted two service rifles from them on Bidoli road in Jhinjhana police station area late on Tuesday night. Circle officer Rajesh Kumar Tiwari said that home guard Sanjay and constable Sansar Singh were near Kamalpur check-post where they intercepted the miscreants riding a motorcycle. However, the duo opened fire at the cops and sped off with their rifles. Home guard Sanjay was injured in the attack and was rushed to hospital in a serious condition. On being informed, senior police officers rushed to the spot and launched a hunt for the miscreants but it failed to yield the desired results. A case was registered and investigations are on. Bharatiya Janata Party state president Mahendra Nath Pandey said that the allegations of UP Congress president Raj Babbar against Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were wrong, malicious and politically motivated. The case which the Congress leader spoke about is an old one and even the court has exonerated Yogi. This is a 20-year-old case and raking it up now shows the malicious campaign the Congress wants to launch against the BJP, Pandey said in a statement issued in Lucknow on Wednesday. Earlier, Raj Babbar had told media persons that a lower court in Maharajganj has reopened a 19-year-old case in which a police head constable was killed in Maharajganj. Yogi was booked as an accused in that case, he said. The BJP leader said that the allegation was the manifestation of the criminal mindset of the Congress brass. It is a fact that the BJP government is working for the welfare of the masses and the Congress has not been able to digest this. Hence, it is levelling false allegations against the Chief Minister, he said. Meanwhile, Pandey asked the BJP workers to strengthen the party at booth level and work with the mission of Mera booth sabse majboot. He urged them to tell the people about the achievements of the Yogi Adityanath and Narendra Modi governments. THE HAGUE, Oct 3: The United Nations' highest court on Wednesday ordered the United States to lift sanctions on Iran that affect imports of humanitarian goods and products and services linked to the safety of civil aviation. The ruling by the International Court of Justice is legally binding, but it remains to be seen if the administration of President Donald Trump will comply. Trump moved to restore tough U.S. sanctions in May after withdrawing from Tehran's nuclear accord with world powers. Iran challenged the sanctions in a case filed in July at the International Court of Justice. In a preliminary ruling, the court said that Washington must "remove, by means of its choosing, any impediments arising from" the re-imposition of sanctions to the export to Iran of medicine and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities and spare parts and equipment necessary to ensure the safety of civil aviation. While imposing the so-called "provisional measures," the court's president, Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf, stressed that the ruling does not prejudge the ultimate outcome of the case or establish that the court has jurisdiction. Iranian state television trumpeted the court's decision in a scrolling graphic at the bottom of TV screens: "The victory of Tehran over Washington by the Hague Court." The U.S. is expected to challenge the court's jurisdiction in a future hearing. At hearings in August, Tehran sought the suspension of the sanctions while the case challenging their legality is being heard a process that can take years. U.S. lawyers responded that the sanctions are a legal and justified national security measure that cannot be challenged by Tehran at the world court. In its decision, the court said that the U.S. sanctions "have the potential to endanger civil aviation safety" in Iran and that sanctions limiting sales of goods required for humanitarian needs such as food, medicines and medical devices "may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." The court said that the Trump administration must "ensure that licenses and necessary authorizations are granted" and payments not restricted if they are linked to the humanitarian and aviation goods. The court also told both the United States and Iran to "refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute." Iran alleges that the sanctions breach a 1955 bilateral agreement known as the Treaty of Amity that regulates and promotes economic and consular ties between the two countries. The treaty was signed when the U.S. and Iran were still allies following the 1953 revolution fomented by Britain and the U.S. that ultimately cemented the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Diplomatic relations were severed following the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran and takeover of the U.S. Embassy and ensuing hostage crisis. However, the treaty remains in force. Wednesday's ruling could set up another clash between the Trump administration and a Hague-based court. Last month, Trump's national security advisor, John Bolton, denounced the International Criminal Court a separate and unrelated institution based just a few kilometers (miles) away from the International Court of Justice. The ICC prosecutes people accused of war atrocities while the ICJ settles disputes between nations. The Bharatiya Janata Party has alleged that Congress opposition of the Investors Summit is a sign of its anti-development mentality. Reacting to the Congress announcement of a protest on the day of the summits inauguration, the BJP State media in charge Devendra Bhasin opined that this shows that the Congress mentality is basically against development and interests of Uttarakhand. He said, If the Congress was sensitive towards interests of Uttarakhand, it would have welcomed the prime minister and investors coming to the summit from across India and abroad. However, its announcement to hold a protest has exposed its mentality. Congress leaders have been opposing the summit since the start. They consistently tried to maximise negative publicity in their attempt to make the summit an unsuccessful event. Their efforts have failed as already the investment target of Rs 40,000 crore has been surpassed. The Congress is hassled and has chosen to protest on the day when the PM is arriving to inaugurate the summit. Not a single dose of Anti-Diphtheria Serum (ADS) was available in Maharishi Valmiki Infectious Diseases (MVID) Hospital between December 2, 2017 and September 22, 2018, however, the patients died due to heart complications, said the interim report of the Fact Finding Committee set up by North Delhi Municipal Corporation (NMC). The supply from Central Research Institute (CRI), Kasauli stopped after November 2017, said the report. North Delhi Mayor Adesh Gupta told The Pioneer, "We found three main points in the report. Firstly, enough efforts were not made by former Medical Superintendent (MS), SK Gupta to purchase the serum. Secondly, the production at CRI stopped as the labs were undergoing renovation as per World Health Organisation standard and thirdly, the children were not vaccinated against diphtheria." "We have suspended the MS and new appointment has been made. More action will be taken after the final report," said Gupta. According to the report, the CRI made around 1400 vials of serum available to the MS till November 13 last year. All of them were consumed by December 2 and the hospital did not have a single dose of serum till September 22 this year. The consignment of 200 vials was made available to the hospital by CRI on September 23, said the report. "SK Gupta, MS, MVID visited CRI in the month of February this year but he was apprised by the institute that the supply may be made within a year due to renovation of the lab," suggested the report. The report further said that quotations for the procurement of serum were made to five private firms out of which three denied manufacturing the serum. One of the firms asked for advance payment while the other one requested 6-8 weeks for confirmation, the report said. As per the report which investigated death of 21patients till last week of September, the patients were either partially vaccinated or not vaccinated at all. "18 out of 21 patientswere not vaccinated and 3 were partially vaccinated. Most of the patients were admitted four to six days later after the onset of the illness," said the report. The Committee's report further stated that patients died due to heart complications and airway obstruction. All the patients received ADS which they procured from the market, the report added. The report also mentioned that the diphtheria wards were poorly lit and there were no anti-arrhythmic drugs available in the wards. On inspection, it was found that the operation theatres were non operational, the staff was less and the blood bank facilities were not available, said the report. Nevertheless, the deaths continued even after the serum was made available answering which the new MS of the hospital Dr Anil Sahni said, "The serum can be used as medicine but it cannot cure the disease. The deaths that are occurring presently are of the patients who are not vaccinated and are being brought in later stages." Shockingly, two more deaths due to the highly infectious disease were reported at the civic hospital on Wednesday and toll reached upto 30 in the month of September and first three days of October. Farmers ended their 'Kisan Kranti Yatra' after arriving at Kisan Ghat in the national Capital on Wednesday. The Central Government allowed them to enter Delhi in the early hours of Wednesday, ending the prolonged standoff between the police personnel and protesting farmers. Within hours, thousands of farmers gathered at Kisan Ghat, the memorial of renowned farmer leader and former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, which is located just adjacent to Raj Ghat between the banks of Yamuna river and Mahatma Gandhi Road, also known as main Ring Road. They offered tributes at the memorial. "The Delhi Police had removed the barricades around 12.30 am to allow the farmers, who were stopped Tuesday at UP Gate on the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border during the Kisan Kranti Yatra, to enter the city," said a senior police official. The farmers entered the national Capital riding their tractors and trolleys and proceeded towards Kisan Ghat where heavy police deployment has been made, the official said. BKU leader Pawan Khatana said police had opened the barricades around 12.30 am. "We reached the Kisan Ghat in the next couple of hours. By 5 am the farmers had started return journey to their homes in Rajasthan, Haryana, UP, Madhya Pradesh," Khatana, the BKU's Uttar Pradesh unit spokesperson. The farmers said they have reached an agreement with the Central Government, which, according to them, has accepted "most of the demands". They said their prime demand of increasing the price of crops has been agreed upon by the Government. "A formal announcement in this regard will be made within six days by the government," Rakesh Tikait, national spokesperson of Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU). No farmers participating in the agitation are now in Delhi, however, several of them, including BKU chief Naresh Singh Tikait are staying put near the UP-Delhi border the spot for Tuesday's clash with security men. Khatana said some of the farmers are still at UP Gate, the intersection of Madan Mohan Malviya Road in Ghaziabad with the Delhi-Meerut highway getting their tractors repaired. Thousands of farmers on Tuesday marched towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, pendingsugarcane dues, allowing plying of old tractors, blocking traffic movement on arterial roads leading to the national capital. Police picketed the border with Uttar Pradesh, imposing prohibitory orders banning assembly of five or more people and holding of any public meeting, usage of any amplifier, loudspeaker, and similar instruments. congratulations for Champions of the Earth award Bhopal: Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan congratulated the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has been honoured with the prestigious Champions of the Earth award by the United Nations. He also expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of Madhya Pradesh for approval granted in the meeting of the Union Cabinet held under the Chairmanship of the Prime Minister Modi for Metro Rail Projects of Bhopal and Indore. Chouhan said that the respect and dignity of India has enhanced in the entire world under the leadership of our PM. new rly track will be like industrial corridor Bhopal: Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that the Budhni-Indore railway track will be developed as an industrial corridor. This railway line will accelerate the development of Rehti, Nasrullaganj, Khategaon and Kannoud and create new employment opportunities. The foundation of the railway line worth `3260 crore will be laid on October 4. Chouhan gave this information while laying the foundation of the third railway line on Budni -Barkheda rail section in Sehore district late on Tuesday. Padhe Bhopal to be held on Oct 9 Bhopal: Governor Anandiben Patel presided over the meeting of Senior Officers of the Higher Education, School Education Department and Vice Chancellors of the Universities held at Raj Bhavan in connection to the programme Padhe Bhopal to be organized in Bhopal on October 9, 2018. Patel gave instructions to hold the programme at a wide level. The Governor instructed that seating arrangement should be made for students, teachers, parents and other persons to facilitate them to read books of their interest at the premises of all educational institutions and universities campus including Raj Bhavan from 8.45 am to 9.30 am. New VC for bhoj open varsity Bhopal: Governor and Chancellor Anandiben Patel has appointed Jayant Sonvalkar, the Professor and Head of the Department of Patrakarita evam Jansanchar Addhyanshala of Devi Ahilya Vishvidyalaya- Indore as Vice Chancellor of the Madhya Pradesh Bhoj (Open) University. Sonvalkar has been appointed as the Vice Chancellor for a period of 4 years from the date of his taking charge or 65 years of age, whichever is earlier. In the Investors Summit being organised in Dehradun on October 7-8, Japan and Czech Republic have been declared as the partner countries. Singapore will also attend the Investors Summit. During the summit, focusing on the industrial best practices being adopted by the partner countries, Uttarakhand Government will organise the country session. During the said sessions, the participating countries will focus on the areas of partnership with the Uttarakhand government and there will be brainstorming on the new dimensions of industrial development. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat said that Uttarakhand is all set to hold the Investors Summit. The first investors summit is to be held in the state. This Investors Summit is expected to bring investment of about Rs 77,000 crore. MoUs amounting to Rs 65,000 crore have already been signed, he said. In a snub to the Congress and a big jolt to the Opposition unity ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Wednesday announced to go it alone in the Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan Assembly polls slated to be held later this year. The announcement was made on the day when senior Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijay Singh, in an interview to a private news channel, alleged that Mayawati was afraid of Opposition alliance as she had succumbed to the pressure of the CBI and Enforcement Directorate (ED). We will have no truck with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan Assembly polls and the party will contest all the seats in both the states, Mayawati announced before a news agency here on Wednesday. Mayawati claimed that BSP had the power to change the political tide of the country and the Congress was just trying to hold the party to ransom by offering a few seats in the alliance. She even went to the extent of alleging that the Congress was trying to finish the BSP. The BSP has already forged a pre-poll alliance in Chhattisgarh with the Janata Congress (Chhattisgarh), led by former tribal Chief Minister Ajit Jogi last month. I can only say that Digvijay Singh is a BJP agent and is trying to prevent the BSP-Congress alliance even as Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi wants it, she alleged while attacking Digvijay Singh. Mayawati, annoyed with the statement of the Congress leader Digvijay Singh, alleged that the Congress always tried to corner the BSP and other smaller parties. They should know that the BSP is a party which came into existence from struggle to represent the sarv samaj along with Dalits, tribals and the poor. We have experienced several such bullying tactics in the past by the Congress and the BJP but have never bowed down to any pressure, she said while alleging that the Congress was trying to end the BSP through its arrogant attitude and its anti-Dalit mindset. Talking about the sacrifices made by the BSP and herself, Mayawati said that she scarified her government in UP in 2003 while later a few years back she resigned from the Rajya Sabha for the cause of Dalits and sarv samaj. We have never compromised on issues of Dalits and other backward communities in the past and will not do so in future too, she said. Mayawati in her statement alleged that the Congress had always insulted the dalits and even Dr B R Ambedkar and Kanshi Ram were not spared by them. These feudal-minded political parties, who are castiest and have communal faces, are always opposed to leaders who come from backward castes and now they are trying to wipe out the BSP through their political conspiracy, she alleged. The BSP president also did not spare the BJP saying both the Congress and the BJP were two sides of the same coin. The BJP has ditched the people of the country by not fulfilling any of the promises made during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls besides demonetisation and GST have broken lives of the people and the economy. Rising prices of petroleum products and devaluation of rupee in comparison to dollar has created an economic crisis in the country, she added. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Wednesday extended its support to the Scheduled Caste students who did a gherao of the residence of Punjab Welfare of SC/BC Minister Sadhu Singh Dharamsot to protest against the Congress Governments alleged refusal to release Rs 327 crore received from the Centre for post-matric scholarship to the SC students. Three SAD legislators Pawan Kumar Tinu, Dr Sukhwinder Sukhi and Baldev Khera staged a sit in outside Dharamsots residence seeking an explanation regarding Rs 327 crore received for SC scholarship from the Centre more than three months back. Holding placards, hundreds of SC students staged a dharna outside the Congress ministers residence and later in front of the ministerial complex to demand not only immediate release of the central grant but also State assistance of Rs 68 crore as per the scheme. The students, raising slogans against the Minister, condemned him for changing his stance every day. They said that the Minister had first promised to release scholarship grant in February this year, then promised the same in the Vidhan Sabha in March and then shifted the date to September 30 during a statement given to the media in August. Now, Dharamsot has given a fresh statement saying that the money will be released in December, they added. The students said that Dharamsots statement was also against the written assurance given by Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh that the scholarship amount would be released soon. Stating that more than one lakh dalit students had been unable to take admission in colleges this year due to the Congress governments refusal to release funds of the same, they said that now another two lakh students faced a bleak future with college managements refusing to let them sit for examinations next month unless they paid the tuition fee. Stating that the SAD would not let the Congress government get away with this, Tinu demanded that the government must immediately direct all educational institutions not to force dalit students to pay tuition fee themselves and not stop them from sitting in the forthcoming examinations. Two children namely Pulkit and Devvrat find their new home as Haryana State Council for Child Welfare (HSCCW), Panchkula on Wednesday gave them up for adoption to two different families. Director, State Institute of Health and Family Welfare, Haryana, Sonia Trikha Khullar handed over the custody of Pulkit to an American couple and Devvrat to a family from Ambala Cantt. Both children were handed over to the couples after completing all documents of Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA). Since 1982, the Haryana State Council for Child Welfare has so far handed over 523 children to new families including 371 across the country and 152 abroad. Sonia Trikha Khullar said it was a proud moment for her as Pulkit and Devvrat has found their new home. She said that the HSCCW has been doing a commendable job for the welfare of children. Nearly 7,000 illegal colonies, plots or buildings, set up before March 19, 2018, are set to be regularised. For, the Punjab Cabinet on Wednesday okayed the regularisation policy for the same. All the colonies, developed before March 19, this year the day on which the Cabinet passed Punjab Laws (Special Provisions for Regularisation Authorised Colony) Bill-2018would be covered under the decision to check the mushrooming of unplanned and haphazard constructions across the state. At the same time, the Cabinet has decided to initiate stringent action against the coloniser of a colony, which comes up after the cut-off date, that is March 19, 2018, and also against those who do not apply for regularization. As per the available data, there are presently around 7,000 illegal colonies, of which 5,000 were located outside the municipal limits. The move is expected to give an opportunity for regularisation to colonisers or residents who have failed to apply for either getting their unauthorized colonies regularised or unauthorised plots or buildings falling in unauthorised colonies compounded under previous policies, or whose application are pending. Spokesperson said that the policy would enable residents, living in these colonies, to get facilities of basic civic amenities like water supply, sewerage, electricity and road connectivity etc. Highlighting the key features of the policy, the spokesperson said that unauthorized colonies developed before March 19, 2018, shall be regularized, with regularization charges earlier paid under the previous policies to be adjusted. The charges, thus received from the regularization of the particular colony, would be used for providing basic infrastructure to that specific colony only and payment of charges shall be made in instalments. Besides, committees of officers shall also be constituted for quick regularization of colonies, as well as plots falling in these unauthorized colonies. Residents Welfare Association (RWA) can also submit an application for regularization of the colony. Where there is no colonizer, creation of RWA shall be mandatory. However, the area under the road or park would be transferred in the name of the local authority immediately, and subsequently would be transferred to RWA as and when formed for its maintenance. Till that time, the upkeep shall be the responsibility of the colonizer, said the spokesperson. Unauthorized colonies have been categorized into four categories where up to 25 percent plots are sold, where 25 to 50 percent plots are sold, where more than 50 percent plots are sold and a special provision for exceptional colony having more than 75 percent built-up area. Spokesperson said that the colonizer would be required to submit registered sale deeds within three months from the grant of provisional regularization certificate in case sale agreements are submitted as proof of sale. No legal action shall be initiated against the colonizer who pays full charges as per demand notice, and no interest shall be levied on the pending payment, added the spokesperson. PUNJAB TO SETUP PUNJAB GHAR GHAR ROZGAR AND KAROBAR MISSION Punjab Cabinet on Wednesday gave approval to setting up the Punjab Ghar Ghar Rozgar and Karobar Mission (PGRAKM), with Chief Minister to be the chairman of its Governing Council. The Mission, to be registered as a society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, would facilitate every jobseeker in securing wage or self-employment in Punjab, India or abroad. Spokesperson said that the proposed society would focus on creation of necessary framework to facilitate wage and self-employment for states unemployed youth, besides improving employability through skill training or skill upgradation. It would also identify areas having the potential for employment generation and would strive to harness that potential with government intervention. The Mission would facilitate job seekers for placement in government, private jobs, overseas employment and skill training as per their aptitude and skills, said the spokesperson adding that it would also offer a platform for major job and entrepreneurship ventures, and bring employers and employees together. It would also create an exhaustive database of unemployed household in the state, besides developing and promoting an ecosystem, conducive to employment generation, amongst all stakeholders which would help to ensure at least one job or source of employment or self-employment in each household as promised by the Congress before elections. PUNJABS 42L FAMILIES TO BE COVERED UNDER PMJAY Giving in-principle approval to the implementation of Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna (PMJAY), Punjab Cabinet has extended the central scheme to cover over 42 lakh families, instead of the proposed 14.96 lakh SECC (Socio-Economic Caste Census) families, thereby fulfilling the Congress poll promise of providing universal health cover. But, the Centres Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission (AB-NHPM), renamed as PMJAY, provides Rs five lakh coverage per family annually, would be implemented with another name in Punjab. For the same, the Cabinet has authorized the Chief Minister to rename the scheme for Punjab, where the Congress, in its election manifesto, had committed itself to providing universal health insurance. The Cabinet has decided to set up a committee under the Chief Secretary to work out the financial modalities for the implementation of the scheme to be implemented at an estimated cost of over Rs 300 crore by cutting the budgets of other departments, as and where necessary. While PMJAY had proposed to cover 14.96 SECC families in the state, the Captain Amarinder Singh government has decided to extend the scheme to provide Rs five lakh insurance cover to 42 lakh of the total 61 lakh families in the state, including families of farmers, construction workers and small traders, as well as other poor families (currently covered under the Bhagat Puran Singh Sehat Bima Yojana BPSSBY). With another six to seven lakh government employees already covered, only the few rich families are left out of the purview of the scheme, thus effectively reaching out to the entire population of the state. Spokesperson said that estimated cost of annual premium at the rate of Rs 1,082 per family would be shared between the Central and State Governments in the ratio of 60:40, which would cost Rs 65 crores to the State Government annually, for which the Finance Department had already agreed. The Cabinet also gave concurrence to extend the period of Bhagat Puran Singh Sehat Bima Yojana (BPSSBY), which is expiring on October 31, 2018, for the next three months or implementation of revised scheme, whichever is earlier. PUNJAB GST ACT, 2017, AMENDED Cabinet has also decided to amend the Punjab Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, through an Ordinance to simplify the process of filing returns and payment of tax with minimum paper work. Notably, Punjab Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, is replica of Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017. Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill has been passed by the Lok Sabha on August 9, 2018. Similar amendments have to be made in Punjab Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, for which the special session of Vidhan Sabha would be convened soon. Between the joy of meeting new friends and the sorrow of separation from the seniors, the Welcome and Farewell party of International Institute of Fashion Technology (IIFT) students were held on Wednesday at the Hotel Noor-Us-Sabah. During this time, when senior students appeared to be welcoming to new students, the students who were leaving the institute were seen promising to meet again with each other. As some eyes were filled happiness, other students had teary eyes and promised to meet each other soon. There was a party theme. For the freshers it was floor length evening gown, and the seniors appeared in the red sari wrapped in different styles. On this occasion, various performances were also held. There were different categories of performances. The seniors performed dance on different Bollywood numbers and the freshers left everyone astound with the spectacular ramp walk. There group and solo dance performances. From classical to western, all forms of dance performances were seen on the floor. In group performances there were dances on Beti Bachao, bass gloves, sparkling queens, rhythmic eagles, lady rebels, and dancing duties. During this time, recreational games were also organized and the winners of various competitions during the year were also awarded. Judges in the programme included Vishal Talreja, Sapna Singh Parmar and Veenaas Rakkaswar. Miss IIFT title was won by Mridbhashini Diwan. Pokhara, Nepal: The 1o year old rape and murder victim Shriya Sunars body has been cremated in Pokhara on Wednesday. The victim minor had found dead on September 25 morning with severe injuries on her forehead and marks of a strangled neck. Her neighbor, 27-year-old Kusum Paudel of Pumdibhumdi of Kaski has confessed to the crime. The third-grade student at Lila Adharbhut School was raped and murdered by Poudel while she had gone to buy biscuit. Online home rental companies in Europe are forcing inhabitants out of their neighbourhoods. Paris has finally revolted The first paying guests to the ground-floor studio flat newly posted on Airbnb were innocuous enough: A family, come to experience the joys of Paris, like many millions of others. Franck Briand, who lives in the apartment directly above, now looks back on that moment as the start of what he calls his Airbnb nightmare. The ensuing four years, he says, have been an incessant carousel of late-night parties, drunken revelers and the rattle of newly arrived groups, sometimes 15 at a time, dragging wheeled suitcases across the cobbled courtyard. I want to leave, Briand says. But I said to myself that it shouldnt be the weakest, those under threat, who give in. Paris, long one of the worlds top destinations, is still grateful for the billions of euros that tourists pump into the French capitals economy and the 300,000 jobs they sustain. But Parisians and City Hall officials also are expressing deep qualms about having so many visitors directly in their midst, no longer largely corralled in hotels but instead living, albeit temporarily, cheek-by-jowl with locals in properties rented online. The backlash in Paris against intrusive, on-your-doorstep tourism hasnt yet reached the proportions of other heavily visited cities. Venice and Barcelona, among other destinations, have seen repeated protests. But concerns voiced in top European destinations are often the same: That mass tourism and its online platforms are hollowing cities out, driving away locals with higher prices, higher rents and sheer inconvenience. Jacques Boutault, mayor of Paris central second arrondissement, is among those sounding the alarm. The rectangular district he oversees, boxed in by some of the citys must-visit sites, including the Pompidou art museum, has experienced a precipitous population decline as Airbnb has taken Paris by storm, with more listings than any other city worldwide. The population is changing completely, from those who have been here for years to one that is just passing through, says Boutault, the district mayor since 2001. The second arrondissement has lost 3,000 inhabitants in the past four years, more than 10 per cent of its total and many of them families, he says. The districts schools have shut three classes as a result. I dont want to be the mayor of a museum, thats to say pretty walls where people spend a bit of time and then leave, Boutault says. Its important that town centers remain authentic and alive. In fact, thats what tourists come for. In 2012, Airbnb had 4,000 Paris-area listings. That surged to more than 40,000 by 2015, when Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky was welcomed at City Hall. Three years on, Airbnb counts 65,000 listings inside Paris alone. But relations with City Hall have soured. Paris Deputy Mayor Ian Brossat, in charge of housing, says the capital has lost 20,000 homes in five years, homes that were lived in by Parisians but are now populated by tourists. They are no longer homes, they are clandestine hotels. Airbnb has veered away from its original model, he says. Weve gone from a sharing economy to a type of predatory economy, with professionals that bought homes, sometimes buildings, in bulk to transform them into cash machines. So our role is to restore some order. To regulate the growth of Airbnb and similar platforms, Paris has since December required proprietors who list online to register. Parisians are only allowed to rent out the property they actually live in to tourists, and for a total of no more than 120 days a year. Any other Paris residence they may have can't be rented to tourists at all. But even with inspection teams going door-to-door and fines for the most egregious violators, the rules remain scantily enforced. Brossat is now lobbying for a blanket ban on tourist rentals in central Paris, arguing that home owners in the first, second, third, and fourth arrondissements those most impacted by the Airbnb phenomenon, he says should still be allowed to rent out spare rooms but not their entire property. Airbnb France, in a statement, called Brossats proposal out of touch with public opinion, divorced from legal reality. It said renting out properties on Airbnb helps Parisians boost their income and afford rising living costs in their communities, where housing capacity has failed to meet demand for decades. More pressure on Airbnb and similar sites is coming with a new housing law about to get parliaments final blessing. It opens the door for large fines to be levied against sites that host properties not in conformity with French regulations. Brossat expects the law to mark a turning point. The gentrification of Paris didnt start with Airbnb. But Airbnb is an accelerator of gentrification, he said. The risk is that Paris becomes a city no longer lived in by inhabitants but solely by tourists or foreign investors. In 2017, citizens of Venice and Barcelona had organised anti-tourism marches. In 2016 alone, Spain, where the protests had begun, had seen 75.6 million tourists, including 17.8 million from the UK. This had been the culmination of years long price rise in properties because of companies like Airbnb but the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) had defended the tourism sector and called on authorities to make sure that the growth was sustainable. In India, the frenzy has not reached to such heights and the company sees future growth in home-sharing than temporary rentals. Currently, they are present in 100 cities in the country with over 35,000 properties. They have tie-ups with the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation and the North East Tourism Development Council and want to created 50,000 hospitality entrepreneurs, including 15,000 women, by 2020. The following companies are subsidiares of Abbott Laboratories: 3A Nutrition (Vietnam) Company Limited, ABON Biopharm (Hangzhou) Co. 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Ltd, Abbott Vascular Limitada, Abbott Vascular Netherlands B.V., Abbott Vascular Solutions Inc., Abbott Ventures Inc., Abbott West Indies Limited, Abbott drustvo sa ogranicenom odgovornoscu za trgovinu i usluge, Advanced Neuromodulation Systems Inc., Alere, Alere (Shanghai) Diagnostics Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Healthcare Management Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Medical Sales Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Technology Co. Ltd., Alere A/S, Alere AB, Alere AS, Alere AS Holdings Limited, Alere BBI Holdings Limited, Alere Bangladesh Limited, Alere China Co. Ltd., Alere Colombia S.A., Alere Connect LLC, Alere Connected Health Limited, Alere Connected Health Ltd., Alere Diagnostics GmbH, Alere DoA Holding GmbH, Alere GmbH, Alere GmbH (Austria), Alere GmbH (Germany), Alere HK Holdings Ltd., Alere Health B.V., Alere Health BVBA, Alere Health Corp., Alere Health Sdn Bhd, Alere Health Services B.V., Alere Healthcare (Pty) Limited, Alere Healthcare Connections Limited, Alere Healthcare Inc., Alere Healthcare Nigeria Limited, Alere Healthcare S.L., Alere Holdco Inc., Alere Holding GmbH, Alere Holdings Bermuda Limited, Alere Holdings Pty Limited, Alere Home Monitoring Inc., Alere Inc., Alere Informatics Inc., Alere International Holding Corp., Alere International Limited, Alere Lda, Alere Limited, Alere Limited (New Zealand), Alere Medical BVBA, Alere Medical Co. Ltd., Alere Medical Pakistan (Private) Limited, Alere Medical Private Limited, Alere North America LLC, Alere Oy Ab, Alere Philippines Inc., Alere Phoenix ACQ Inc., Alere Pte Ltd, Alere S.A., Alere S.r.l., Alere S/A, Alere SAS, Alere San Diego Inc., Alere Scarborough Inc., Alere Spain S.L., Alere Switzerland GmbH, Alere Technologies GmbH, Alere Technologies Holdings Limited, Alere Technologies Limited, Alere Toxicology AB, Alere Toxicology Inc., Alere Toxicology S.r.l., Alere Toxicology Services Inc., Alere Toxicology plc, Alere UK Holdings Limited, Alere UK Subco Limited, Alere ULC, Alere US Holdings LLC, Alere s.r.o., Alisoc Investment & Co, Amedica Biotech Inc., Ameditech Inc., American Generics S.A.S., American Medical Supplies Inc., American Pharmacist Inc., Antares S.A., Apica Cardiovascular Limited, Aquagestion Capacitacion S.A., Aquagestion S.A., Arriva Medical LLC, Arriva Medical Philippines Inc., Arvis Investments Limited, Atlas Farmaceutica S.A., Avee Laboratories Inc., Axis-Shield AD III AS, Axis-Shield AD IV AS, Axis-Shield AS, Axis-Shield Diagnostics Limited, Axis-Shield Ltd., BBI Animal Health Limited, BBI Diagnostics Group 2 Public Limited Company, Banco de Vida S.A., Bioabsorbable Vascular Solutions Inc., Bioalgae S.A., Biohealth LLC, Biosite Incorporated, Bosque Bonito S.A., Branan Medical Corporation, Brandex Europe C.V., British Colloids Limited, CFR Chile S.A., CFR Interamericas EL Salvador Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, CFR Interamericas Nicaragua Sociedad Anonima, CFR Interamericas Panama S.A., CFR Pharmaceuticals, California Property Holdings III LLC, CardioMEMS LLC, Caripharm Inc., Cephea Valve Technologies, Cephea Valve Technologies Inc., Colibri Medical Aktiebolag, Comercializadora y Distribuidora CFR Interamericas Honduras S.A., Concateno South Limited, Concateno UK Limited, Consorcio Tecnologico en Biomedicina Clinico-Molecular S.A., Continuum Services LLC, Cozart Limited, Dextech S.A., Diagnostik Nord GmbH, Distribuciones Uquifa S.A.S., Domesco Medical Import-Export Joint-Stock Corporation, Duphar International Research B.V., Endocardial Solutions, Epocal (US) Inc, Esprit de Vie S.A., European Chemicals & Co, European Drug Testing Service EDTS AB, European Services S.A., Evalve Inc., Evalve International Inc., FARMINDUSTRIA S.A., Fada Pharma Paraguay Sociedad Anonima, Fadapharma del Ecuador S.A., Farmaceutica Mont Blanc S.L., Farmacologia Em Aquicultura Veterinaria Ltda., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV Ecuador S.A., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV S.A., Fernwood Investment S.A., First Check Diagnostics LLC, Focus Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Forensics Limited, Forestcreek Overseas S.A., Fournier Pharma Corp., Fournier Pharma GmbH, Fournier Pharmaceuticals Limited, Framed B.V., Gabmed GmbH, Garden Hills LLC, Global Analytical Development LLC, Globapharm & CO LP, Glomed Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Golnorth Investments S.A., Gynocare Limited, Gynopharm Sociedad Anonima, Gynopharm de Centroamerica S.A., Gynopharm de Venezuela C.A., Hi-Tronics Designs Inc., IDEV Technologies Inc., IG Innovations Limited, IMTC Finance B.V., IMTC Holdings B.V., IMTC Technologies Inc., Ibis Biosciences LLC, Igloo Zone Chile S.A., Igloo Zone S.L., Inmobiliaria Naknek S.A.C., Innovacon Inc., Instant Tech Subsidiary Acquisition Inc., Instant Technologies Inc., Instituto de Criopreservacion de Chile S.A., Integrated Vascular Systems Inc., Inverness Canadian Acquisition Corporation, Inverness Medical (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Australia Pty Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Hong Kong Limited, Inverness Medical Innovations SK LLC, Inverness Medical Investments LLC, Inverness Medical LLC, Inverness Medical Shimla Private Limited, Inversiones K2 SpA, Inversiones Komodo S.R.L., Ionian Technologies LLC, Irvine Biomedical Inc., Kalila Medical, Kangshenyunga S.A., Knoll UK Investments Unlimited, LLC VeroInPharm, Laboratoires Fournier S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano Lafrancol S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano del Ecuador S.A., Laboratorio Internacional Argentino S.A., Laboratorio Synthesis S.A.S., Laboratorios Lafi Limitada, Laboratorios Naturmedik S.A.S., Laboratorios Pauly Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Laboratorios Recalcine S.A., Laboratorios Transpharm S.A., Laboratory Specialists of America Inc., Lafrancol Dominicana S.A.S., Lafrancol Guatemala S.A. Sociedad Anonima, Lafrancol Internacional S.A.S, Lafrancol Peru S.R.L, Lake Forest Investments LLC, Lightlab Imaging Inc., Limited Liability Company Abbott Laboratories, Limited Liability Company Abbott Ukraine, Limited Liability Company VEROPHARM, Lung Fung Hong (China) Limited, Mansbridge Pharmaceuticals Limited, MediGuide LLC, MediGuide Ltd., Medscreen Holdings Limited, Metropolitana Farmaceutica S.A., Midwest Properties LLC, Murex Argentina S.A., Murex Biotech Limited, Murex Biotech South Africa, Murex Diagnostics Inc., Murex Diagnostics International Inc., Natural Supplement Association LLC, Negocios Denia Sociedad Anonima, Neosalud S.A.C., Nether Pharma N.P. C.V., NeuroTherm LLC, Normann Pharma-Handels GmbH, North Shore Properties Inc., Novamedi S.A., Novasalud.com S.A., Nutravida S.A., OJSC Voronezhkhimpharm, Omnilab Iberia Sociedad Limitada, OptiMedica, Orgenics France SAS, Orgenics International Holdings B.V., Orgenics Ltd., PBM-Selfcare LLC, PDD II LLC, PDD LLC, PT Alere Health, PT. Abbott Indonesia, PT. Abbott Products Indonesia, Pacesetter Inc., Pantech (RF) (PTY) LTD, Pembrooke Occupational Health Inc., Penagos S.A., Pharma International Sociedad Anonima, Pharmaceutical Technologies (Pharmatech) S.A., Pharmatech Boliviana S.A., Polygon Labs S.A., Quality Assured Services Inc., RF Medical Holdings LLC, RTL Holdings Inc., Ramses Business Corp., Recben Xenerics Farmaceutica Limitada, Redwood Toxicology Laboratory Inc., Rich Horizons International Limited, SC VEROPHARM, SJ Medical Mexico S de R.L. de C.V., SJM International Inc., SJM Thunder Holding Company, SPDH Inc., Saboya Enterprises Corporation, Salviac Limited, Scanax AS, Sealing Solutions Inc., Selfcare Technology Inc., Shandong Abbott Dairy Product Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Medical Devices Science and Technology Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Shanghai Si Fa Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Sinensix & Co., Spinal Modulation LLC, St. Jude Medical, St. Jude Medical AB, St. Jude Medical ATG Inc., St. Jude Medical Argentina S.A., St. Jude Medical Asia Pacific Holdings GK, St. Jude Medical Atrial Fibrillation Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Brasil Ltda., St. Jude Medical Business Services Inc., St. Jude Medical Cardiology Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Colombia Ltda., St. Jude Medical Coordination Center, St. Jude Medical Costa Rica Limitada, St. Jude Medical Europe Inc., St. Jude Medical Export Ges.m.b.H., St. Jude Medical GVA Sarl, St. Jude Medical Holdings B.V., St. Jude Medical India Private Limited, St. Jude Medical International Holding, St. Jude Medical LLC, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings II, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings NT, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings SMI S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings TC S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Mexico Business Services S. de R.L. de C.V., St. Jude Medical Middle East DMCC, St. Jude Medical Operations (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., St. Jude Medical Puerto Rico LLC, St. Jude Medical S.C. Inc., St. Jude Medical Systems AB, St. Jude Medical Turkey Medikal Urunler Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Standard Diagnostics Inc., Standing Stone LLC, Swan-Myers Incorporated, TC1 LLC, Tendyne Holdings Inc., Tendyne Medical Inc., Thoratec Delaware LLC, Thoratec Europe Limited, Thoratec LLC, Thoratec Switzerland GmbH, Tobal Products Incorporated, Topera GmbH in Liquidation, Topera Inc., Tremora S.A., Tuenir S.A., TwistDx, UAB Abbott Laboratories, UAB Abbott Medical Lithuania, Union-Madison Realty Company Inc., Unipath Limited (dba Alere International/aka Cranfield), Unipath Management Limited, Unipath Pension Trustee Limited, Veropharm, Veropharm Limited Liability Partnership, Vida Cell Inversiones S.A., Vida Cell S.A., Vivalsol, W&R Pharma Handels GmbH, Western Pharmaceuticals S.A., X Technologies Inc., Yissum Holding Limited, ZonePerfect Nutrition Company, eScreen Canada ULC, eScreen Inc., ( ), and Abbott Laboratories Baltics. The following companies are subsidiares of Dover: Accelerated Production Systems, Acme Elevator, Advansor A/S, Advansor Dover International (Poland) sp. z o.o, Advansor Germany GmbH, Alfred Fueling Systems Holdco Ltd., Alfred Fueling Systems Inc., Alfred Fueling Systems Intermediate Holdco Ltd., All-Flo Pump Company, Anman LLC, Anthony Equity Holdings Inc., Anthony Holdings Inc., Anthony Inc., Anthony International, Anthony International Foreign Sales Corp., Anthony International Holding Company, Anthony Mexico Holdings LLC, Anthony North Holdco Inc., Anthony Specialty Glass LLC, Anthony TemperBent GP LLC, Auto Glanz Solutions LLC, Automatik Grundstucksverwaltungs GmbH & Co. KG, Automatik Plastics Machinery (Taiwan) Ltd., BSC Filters Limited, Background2 Limited, Belanger, Belanger Inc., Belvac Middle East FZE, Belvac Production Machinery Inc., Blackmer, BlitzRotary GmbH, Butler Engineering and Marketing S.P.A., CDS Visual, CEP Liquidation LLC, CP Formation LLC, CPC Europe Inc., CPI Products Inc., Caldera, Canada Organization & Development LLC, Chief Automotive Technologies (Shanghai) Trading Company Ltd., Chippewa Square Captive Insurance Company, Colder Products Company, Colder Products Company GmbH, Colder Products Company LTD, Cook Compression BV, Cook Compression LLC, Cook Compression Limited, Cook-MFS Inc., DD1 Inc., DDI Properties Inc., DE-STA-CO Benelux B.V., DE-STA-CO FRANCE, DE-STA-CO Shanghai Co. Ltd., DESTACO UK Limited, DFH Corporation, DFS Netherlands B.V., DSR BZ Holdings LLC, Datamax International Corp, De Sta Co (Asia) Company Limited, De-Sta-Co Cylinders Inc., DeStaCo Europe GmbH, Delaware Capital Formation Inc., Delaware Capital Holdings Inc., Dover (China) Investment Co. Ltd., Dover (Schweiz) Holding GmbH, Dover (Shanghai) Industrial Co. Ltd., Dover (Shenzhen) Industrial Equipment Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Dover (Suzhou) Industrial Equipment Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Dover Asia Trading Private Ltd., Dover Australia Holdings Pty Limited, Dover Business Services EMEA Limited, Dover Business Services LLC, Dover Business Services Philippines Corporation, Dover CLP Formation Limited Partnership, Dover CR spol s r.o., Dover Canada Holdings ULC, Dover Canada Operations ULC, Dover Corporation Regional Headquarters, Dover DEI Services Inc., Dover Denmark Holdings ApS, Dover EMEA FZCO, Dover Energy UK Ltd, Dover Engineered Products Segment Inc., Dover Europe Inc., Dover Europe Sarl, Dover Fluids UK Ltd, Dover France Holdings, Dover France Participations, Dover France Technologies, Dover Fueling Solutions Segment Inc., Dover Fueling Solutions UK Limited, Dover Germany GmbH, Dover Global Holdings LLC, Dover Holdings de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Dover Imaging & Identification Segment Inc., Dover India Pvt. Ltd., Dover Intercompany Services UK Limited, Dover International B.V., Dover International Operations Inc., Dover International Ventures Inc., Dover International Ventures Tunisia S.a.r.l., Dover International ithalat ihracat ve Pazarlama Limited Sirketi, Dover Italy Holdings S.r.l., Dover Luxembourg Finance Sarl, Dover Luxembourg Participations Sarl, Dover Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Dover Luxembourg Services Sarl, Dover Operations South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Dover Overseas Ventures Inc., Dover Pumps & Process Solutions Segment Inc., Dover Refrigeration & Food Equipment Segment Inc., Dover Refrigeration & Food Equipment UK Ltd, Dover Resources International de Mexico S. de R.L. C.V., Dover Solutions Colombia SAS, Dover Southeast Asia (Thailand) Ltd., Dover Spain Holdings S.L., Dover UK Pensions Limited, Dover WSCR Holding LLC, Dover WSCR LLC, Dover do Brasil Ltda., Dow-Key Microwave Corporation, Dresser Wayne Data Technology (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Dresser Wayne Fuel Equipment (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., EOA Systems Inc., Ebs-Ray Holdings Pty Ltd, Ebs-Ray Industries Pty. Ltd., Ebs-Ray Pumps Pty. Ltd., Em-tec, Espy, Ettlinger, Ettlinger Kunststoffmaschinen GmbH, Fairbanks Environmental Limited, Fibrelite Composites Limited, Fibresec Holdings Limited, Fibresec Limited, Finder, GAL LLC, GIIER LLC, Gala Industries, Gala Kunststoff-und Kautschukmaschinen GmbH, Guangdong Tokheim LIYUAN Oil Industry Technology Limited Company, Highland Park Insurance Company, Hill PHOENIX Inc., Hill PHOENIX WIC LLC, Hill Phoenix Costa Rica Sociedad De Responsabilidad Limitada, Hill Phoenix El Salvador Limitada de Capital Variable, Hill Phoenix Guatemala Sociedad Anonima, Hill Phoenix Honduras Sociedad Anonima, Hill Phoenix Nicaragua Sociedad Anonima, Hill Phoenix de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Hiltap Fittings Ltd., Hydro Systems Company, Hydro Systems Europe Ltd., Hydronova Australia-NZ Pty Ltd, Industrial Motion Control LLC, Innovative Control Systems, Innovative Control Systems Inc., Inpro/Seal LLC, JK Group, JK Group S.P.A., JK Group USA Inc., K S Boca Inc., K&L Microwave DR Inc., K&L Microwave Inc., KPS (Beijing) Petroleum Equipment Trading Co Ltd., KPS Fueling Solutions Sdn. Bhd., KPS Hong Kong Holding Limited, KPS UK Limited, KS Formation Inc., KS Liquidation Inc., KSLP Liquidation L.P., Kiian Digital (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Knappco LLC, Knowles Electronics, LIQAL, Liquip, Liquip International Pty Limited, MAAG, MARKEM FZ SA, MARKEM-IMAJE Corporation, MIP Holdings Inc., MS Printing Solutions, MS Printing Solutions S.R.L., Maag Automatik GmbH, Maag Automatik Plastics Machinery (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Maag Gala Inc., Maag Italy S.R.L., Maag Pump Systems, Maag Pump Systems (US) Inc., Maag Pump Systems AG, Maag Reduction Inc., Maag Service (Malaysia) Sdn. Bdn., Maag Systems (Thailand) Limited, Marathon Equipment Company (Delaware), Markem Imaje Center of Competencies Spain S.L.U., Markem-Imaje, Markem-Imaje (China) Co. Limited, Markem-Imaje - Unipessoal Lda, Markem-Imaje A/S, Markem-Imaje AB, Markem-Imaje AG, Markem-Imaje AS, Markem-Imaje B.V., Markem-Imaje CSAT GmbH, Markem-Imaje Co. Ltd., Markem-Imaje GmbH, Markem-Imaje Holding, Markem-Imaje Identificacao de Produtos Ltda., Markem-Imaje Inc., Markem-Imaje India Private Limited, Markem-Imaje Industries, Markem-Imaje Industries Limited, Markem-Imaje KK, Markem-Imaje LLC, Markem-Imaje Limited, Markem-Imaje Limited, Markem-Imaje Ltd., Markem-Imaje N.V., Markem-Imaje Oy, Markem-Imaje Philippines Corporation, Markem-Imaje Pty Ltd, Markem-Imaje S.A., Markem-Imaje S.A. de C.V., Markem-Imaje S.r.l., Markem-Imaje SAS, Markem-Imaje Sdn Bhd, Markem-Imaje Singapore Pte. Ltd., Markem-Imaje Spain S.A.U, Markpoint Holding AB, Midland Manufacturing LLC, Mouvex, Northern Lights (Nevada) Inc., Northern Lights Funding LP, Northern Lights Investments LLC, Nova Controls Inc., OK International, OK International (UK) Ltd., OK International Holdings Inc., OK International Inc., OPW Engineered Systems Inc., OPW Fluid Transfer Group Europe B.V., OPW Fluid Transfer Solutions (Jiang Su) Co. Ltd., OPW Fluids Group Inc., OPW France, OPW Fuel Management Systems Inc., OPW Fueling Components (SuZhou) Co. Ltd., OPW Fueling Components LLC, OPW Iberia Sociedad Limitada, OPW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., OPW Slovakia s.r.o., OPW Sweden AB, Officine Meccaniche Sirio S.R.L., PDQ Manufacturing, PDQ Manufacturing Inc., PISCES by OPW Inc., PSD Codax Holdings Limited, PSD Codax Limited, PSG (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, PSG (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., PSG California LLC, PSG Germany GmbH, Petro Vend Sp. z o.o., Pike Machine Products Inc., Pole/Zero Acquisition Inc., Precision Brasil Equipamentos E Servicos Para Postos De Combustiveis Ltda., Precision Service - Servicos De Manutencao E Instalacao De Postos De Abastecimento De Combustivel Ltda., Production Control Services, Pump Management Services Co. LLC, RAV Equipos Espana S.L., RAV France, Ravaglioli Deutschland GmbH, Ravaglioli S.P.A., Reduction Engineering GmbH, Revod Corporation, Revod Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Revod SAS, Revod Singapore Holdings Pte. Ltd, Revod Sweden AB, Robohand Inc., Rosario, Rosario Handel B.V., Rotary Lift Consolidated (Haimen) Co. Ltd, SE Liquidation LLC, SWEP Germany GmbH, SWEP Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., SWEP North America Inc., SWEP Slovakia s.r.o., SWEP Technology (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Seabiscuit Motorsports Inc., Simmons Sirvey Corporation, So. Cal. Soft-Pak, So. Cal. Soft-Pak Incorporated, Solaris Laser, Solaris Laser S.A., Somero Enterprises, Sound Solutions, Space S.R.L., Spirit, Start Italiana Petrol Cihazlari Sanayi Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, Start Italiana S.R.L., Swep Energy Oy, Swep International A.B., Swep Japan K.K., Sys-Tech Solutions, Sys-Tech Solutions Inc., Systech GB Limited, Systech Shanghai Consulting Company Limited, TQC Quantium Quality S.A. de C.V., TTSI III Inc., TWG Canada Consolidated Inc., TXHI LLC, Tartan Textile Services Inc., The Heil Co., Tokheim Belgium, Tokheim China Company Limited, Tokheim GmbH, Tokheim Group, Tokheim Hengshan Technologies (Guangzhou) Co. Ltd., Tokheim Holding B.V., Tokheim India Private Limited, Tokheim Sofitam Applications, Trans - Logistic Group S.R.L., Triton Systems, Tulsa Winch Inc., UPCO Inc., US Synthetic, Unattended Payment Solutions LLC, Unified Brands, Unified Brands Inc., Val TemperBent Glass L.P., Vectron Frequency Devices (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Vehicle Service Group LLC, Vehicle Service Group UK Limited, Vos Food Store Equipment Ltd., WSCR Corp., Warn Automotive LLC, Warn Industries, Waukesha Bearings, Waukesha Bearings Corporation, Waukesha Bearings Limited, Waukesha Bearings Russia LLC, Wayne Fuel Management UK Ltd., Wayne Fueling Systems, Wayne Fueling Systems (Rus) Limited Liability Company, Wayne Fueling Systems Australia Pty Ltd, Wayne Fueling Systems Canada ULC, Wayne Fueling Systems Deutschland GmbH, Wayne Fueling Systems Italia S.R.L., Wayne Fueling Systems LLC, Wayne Fueling Systems Ltd., Wayne Fueling Systems Sweden AB, Wayne Fueling Systems UK Holdco Ltd., Wayne Industria e Comercio Ltda., WellMark, XanTec Steuerungs- und EDV-Technik GmbH, and em-tec GmbH. The following companies are subsidiares of D.R. Horton: 10700 Pecan Park Austin Inc., 11241 Slater Avenue NE LLC, 2 C Development Company LLC, 8800 Roswell Road Bldg. B LLC, 91st Avenue & Happy Valley L.L.C., ANN & 215 LLC, Austin Data Inc., BP456 Inc., C. Richard Dobson Builders Inc., CH Funding LLC, CH Investments of Texas Inc., CHI Construction Company, CHM Partners L.P., CHTEX of Texas Inc., CV Mountain View 25 Inv LLC, Cane Island LLC, Continental Homes Inc., Continental Homes of Texas L.P., Continental Residential Inc., Continental Traditions LLC, Crown Operating Company Inc., Cypress Road L.P., D.R. Horton - CHAustin LLC, D.R. Horton - Colorado LLC, D.R. Horton - Crown LLC, D.R. Horton - Emerald Ltd., D.R. Horton - Georgia LLC, D.R. Horton - Hawaii LLC, D.R. Horton - Highland LLC, D.R. Horton - Indiana LLC, D.R. Horton - Iowa LLC, D.R. Horton - MV LLC, D.R. Horton - Nebraska LLC, D.R. Horton - Permian LLC, D.R. Horton - Regent LLC, D.R. Horton - Terramor LLC, D.R. Horton - Texas Ltd., D.R. Horton - WPH LLC, D.R. Horton - Wyoming LLC, D.R. Horton BAY Inc., D.R. Horton CA2 Inc., D.R. Horton CA3 Inc., D.R. Horton CA4 LLC, D.R. Horton Commercial Inc., D.R. Horton Cruces Construction Inc., D.R. Horton Inc. - Birmingham, D.R. Horton Inc. - Chicago, D.R. Horton Inc. - Denver, D.R. Horton Inc. - Dietz-Crane, D.R. Horton Inc. - Greensboro, D.R. Horton Inc. - Gulf Coast, D.R. Horton Inc. - Huntsville, D.R. Horton Inc. - Jacksonville, D.R. Horton Inc. - Louisville, D.R. Horton Inc. - Midwest, D.R. Horton Inc. - Minnesota, D.R. Horton Inc. - NNV, D.R. Horton Inc. - New Jersey, D.R. Horton Inc. - Portland, D.R. Horton Inc. - Torrey, D.R. Horton Inc. Foundation, D.R. Horton Insurance Agency Inc., D.R. Horton LA North Inc., D.R. Horton Life Insurance Agency Inc., D.R. Horton Los Angeles Holding Company Inc., D.R. Horton Management Company Ltd., D.R. Horton Materials Inc., D.R. Horton Realty LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Atlantic County LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Central Florida LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Delaware LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Georgia Inc., D.R. Horton Realty of Melbourne LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Northwest Florida LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Southeast Florida LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Southwest Florida LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Tampa LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Virginia LLC, D.R. Horton Seabridge Marina Inc., D.R. Horton Serenity Construction LLC, D.R. Horton Urban Renewal LLC, D.R. Horton VEN Inc., D.R. Horton Corpus Christi LLC, DBC54 LLC, DHI Commercial - Lakeview LLC, DHI Commercial - Signal Butte LLC, DHI Commercial - Tamarron LLC, DHI Commercial Inc., DHI Communities Construction LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Arizona LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Colorado LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Florida LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Iowa LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Nevada LLC, DHI Communities Construction of North Carolina LLC, DHI Communities Construction of South Carolina LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Texas LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Utah LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Virginia LLC, DHI Communities II LLC, DHI Communities Inc., DHI Engineering LLC, DHI Insurance Inc., DHI Mortgage Company, DHI Mortgage Company GP Inc., DHI Mortgage Company LP Inc., DHI Mortgage Company Ltd., DHI Ranch Ltd., DHI Realty of Alabama LLC, DHI Realty of Mississippi LLC, DHI Title GP Inc., DHI Title LP Inc., DHI Title of Alabama Inc., DHI Title of Arizona Inc., DHI Title of Florida Inc., DHI Title of Minnesota Inc., DHI Title of Nevada Inc., DHI Title of Texas Ltd., DHI Title of Washington Inc., DHI Verandah South Shores Communities LLC, DHIC - Bridges LLC, DHIC - Brittmore LLC, DHIC - Carolina Forest LLC, DHIC - Desert Peak LLC, DHIC - Durbin Creek LLC, DHIC - Freestone LLC, DHIC - Hammock Landing LLC, DHIC - Heritage LLC, DHIC - Horizon Uptown LLC, DHIC - Jacobs Reserve LLC, DHIC - Lakeview LLC, DHIC - Lipoma LLC, DHIC - Minton Cove LLC, DHIC - Mountain Vista LLC, DHIC - Naco LLC, DHIC - Northshore LLC, DHIC - Prairie Village LLC, DHIC - South Creek LLC, DHIC - Tamarron LLC, DHIC - Valley Vista LLC, DHIC - Varina Gateway LLC, DHIC - Waterleigh II LLC, DHIC - Waterleigh III LLC, DHIC - Waterleigh LLC, DHIC - Westridge LLC, DHIC LLC, DHIC Glendale LLC, DHIC Grove West LLC, DHIC South Park LLC, DHIC Westinghouse LLC, DHIR - Aspen Vista LLC, DHIR - Avian Pointe LLC, DHIR - Emerald Lakes LLC, DHIR - Fosters Ridge LLC, DHIR - Gulf Stream LLC, DHIR - Parkview at Lynn Haven LLC, DHIR - Poplar Terrace LLC, DHIR - Properties I LLC, DHIR - Rock Ridge LLC, DHIR - Sunset Village LLC, DHIR - Village at Hickory Street LLC, DRH - ARK LLC, DRH - ASG LLC, DRH - HWY 114 LLC, DRH Cambridge Homes LLC, DRH Capital Trust I, DRH Capital Trust II, DRH Capital Trust III, DRH Colorado Realty Inc., DRH Construction Inc., DRH Energy Inc., DRH FS Mortgage Reinsurance Ltd., DRH Land Opportunities I Inc., DRH Land Opportunities II Inc., DRH Mountain View LLC, DRH Oil & Gas Inc., DRH Opportunities I Inc., DRH Properties Inc., DRH Realty Company Inc., DRH Realty of Iowa LLC, DRH Regrem L LLC, DRH Regrem LI LLC, DRH Regrem LII LLC, DRH Regrem LIII LLC, DRH Regrem LIV LLC, DRH Regrem LV LLC, DRH Regrem VII LP, DRH Regrem XII LP, DRH Regrem XIV Inc., DRH Regrem XIX Inc., DRH Regrem XLIX LLC, DRH Regrem XLV LLC, DRH Regrem XLVI LLC, DRH Regrem XLVII LLC, DRH Regrem XLVIII LLC, DRH Regrem XV Inc., DRH Regrem XVI Inc., DRH Regrem XVII Inc., DRH Regrem XVIII Inc., DRH Regrem XX Inc., DRH Regrem XXI Inc., DRH Regrem XXII Inc., DRH Regrem XXIII Inc., DRH Regrem XXIV Inc., DRH Regrem XXV Inc., DRH Southwest Construction Inc., DRH Tucson Construction Inc., DRHI Inc., Deer Valley Office Park LLC, Desert Ridge Phase I Partners, Emerald Creek No. 4 L.P., Emerald Realty of Alabama LLC, Emerald Realty of Central Florida LLC, Emerald Realty of North Florida LLC, Emerald Realty of Northwest Florida LLC, Emerald Realty of Southeast Florida LLC, Emerald Realty of Southwest Florida LLC, Encore II Inc., Encore Venture Partners II (California) L.P., Encore Venture Partners II (Texas) L.P., Encore Venture Partners L.P., Express Realty of Central Florida LLC, Express Realty of North Florida LLC, Express Realty of Northwest Florida LLC, Express Realty of Southeast Florida LLC, Express Realty of Southwest Florida LLC, Forestar Group, Forestar Group Inc., Founders Oil & Gas II LLC, Founders Oil & Gas III LLC, Founders Oil & Gas IV LLC, Founders Oil & Gas LLC, Founders Oil & Gas Operating LLC, GP-Encore Inc., Georgetown Data Inc., Germann & McQueen L.L.C., Grand Title Agency LLC, Grande Realty Incorporated, Grande Realty of Pennsylvania LLC, Greywes LLC, HPH Homebuilders 2000 L.P., Hadian LLC, KDB Homes Inc., Kaomalo LLC, Lexington Homes - DRH LLC, MRLF LLC, Martin Road Lake Forest LLC, McQueen & Willis LLC, Meadows I Ltd., Meadows II Ltd., Meadows IX Inc., Meadows VIII Ltd., Meadows X Inc., Melody Homes Inc., Pacific Ridge - DRH LLC, Rielly Carlsbad LLC, Rielly Homes Madison LLC, SFTEN LLC, SGS Communities at Grand Quay L.L.C, SHA Construction LLC, SHLR of California Inc., SHLR of Nevada Inc., SHLR of Washington Inc., SRHI LLC, SSHI LLC, Schuler Homes of Arizona LLC, Schuler Homes of California Inc., Schuler Homes of Oregon Inc., Schuler Homes of Washington Inc., Summerlin Pkwy & Cimarron LLC, Surprise Village North LLC, The Club at Cobblestone LLC, The Club at Hidden River LLC, Tierra Financial Advisors LLC, Travis County Title Company, Treasure Assets LLC, Venture Management of South Carolina LLC, Vertical Construction Corporation, WPH-Camino Ruiz LLC, WPH-Copper Canyon II LLC, WPH-Copper Canyon LLC, Walker Drive LLC, Western Pacific Brea Development LLC, Western Pacific Housing - Mountaingate L.P., Western Pacific Housing - SDG LLC, Western Pacific Housing - Westlake II L.P., Western Pacific Housing Inc., Western Pacific Housing Management Inc., Western Pacific Housing-Antigua LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Broadway LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Canyon Park LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Carrillo LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Communications Hill LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Copper Canyon LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Creekside LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Lomas Verdes LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Lyons Canyon Partners LLC, Western Pacific Housing-McGonigle Canyon LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Norco Estates LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Pacific Park II LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Park Avenue East LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Park Avenue West LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Playa Vista LLC, Western Pacific Housing-River Ridge LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Terra Bay Duets LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Torrey Meadows LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Torrey Village Center LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Windemere LLC, and Wilson Parker Homes. Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc. is an international offshore energy company. It focuses on subsea construction, maintenance and salvage services to the offshore natural gas and oil industry. The firm also provides specialty services to the offshore energy industry, with a focus on well intervention and robotics operations. The company operates through three segments: Well Intervention, Robotics and Production Facilities. The Well Intervention segment offers vessels and related equipment that are used to perform well intervention services primarily in the Gulf of Mexico and North Sea regions. The Robotics segment involves four chartered vessels and also includes ROVs, trenchers and ROVDrills designed to complement offshore construction and well intervention services. The Production Facilities segment includes its investment in the Helix Producer I and Kommandor LLC. Helix Energy Solutions Group was founded in 1979 and is headquartered in Houston, TX. Read More Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF's stock was trading at $25.82 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, PCY shares have increased by 3.4% and is now trading at $26.71. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Orange S.A. provides a range of fixed telephony and mobile telecommunications, data transmission, and other value-added services to customers, businesses, and other telecommunications operators in France and internationally. It operates through France; Spain and Other European Countries; The Africa and Middle East; Enterprise; International Carriers & Shared Services; and Mobile Financial Services segments. The company offers mobile services, such as voice, SMS, and data; fixed broadband and narrowband services, as well as fixed network business solutions, including voice and data; and convergence packages. It also sells mobile handsets, broadband equipment, and connected devices and accessories. In addition, the company provides IT and integration services comprising unified communication and collaboration services, such as LAN and telephony, consultancy, integration, and project management; hosting and infrastructure services, including cloud computing; customer relations management and other applications services; security services; and video conferencing, as well as sells related equipment. Further, it offers national and international roaming services; and mobile virtual network operators, network sharing, and mobile financial services, as well as sells equipment to external distributors and brokers. Orange S.A. markets its products and services under the Orange brand. The company was formerly known as France Telecom and changed its name to Orange S.A. in July 2013. Orange S.A. was founded in 1990 and is headquartered in Paris, France. Read More Economic and Political Weekly, Vol. 53, Issue No. 38, 22 Sep, 2018 Though atheism has been socially prevalent in India, it has remained a grey area in the legal context. There are no specific laws catering to atheists and they are considered as belonging to the religion of their birth. The Constitution provides for afreedom of consciencea under Article 25 since 1950, but constitutional rights of anon-believersa were never substantiated by courts until recently. In India, the rights of anon-believersa have never been considered a part of the mainstream, despite 13% of aIndians being non-religious, and 3% being convinced atheists (WIN-Gallup Report 2012). Besides, atheism has existed in India since centuries with many schools of Indian philosophy being explicitly non-theistic: Charvaka (also known as Lokayata), MA m.sA , Samkhya and Buddhism. This tradition has continued in the present times as prominent leaders like Periyar E V Ramasamy, Bhagat Singh and Ram Manohar Lohia espoused atheism as a social philosophy. Though atheism has been socially prevalent in India, it has remained a grey area in the legal context. There are no specific laws catering to atheists and they are considered as belonging to the religion of their birth. The ConstiAtution provides for afreedom of consciencea 1 under Article 25 since 1950, but constitutional rights of anon-believersa were never substantiated by courts until recently. To understand the true spirit and purpose of afreedom of consciencea provided under the Constitution, reference must be drawn to the Constituent Assembly Debates (CAD). On 17 October 1949, H V Kamath had proposed an amendment to the current form of the Preamble to the Constitution that the words aIn the name of Goda be added before aWe, the People of India.a The members of the Constituent Assembly asserted strongly against the said amendment, thus rejecting it. One member, Pattom A Thanu Pillai, stated that said amendment would amount to compulsion in the matter of faith. He added, aIt affects the fundamental right of freedom of faith. A man has a right to believe in God or not, according to the Constitution.a Another member, pandit Hirday Nath Kunzru, said that invoking the name of god in the Preamble shows aa narrow, sectarian spirit, which is contrary to the spirit of the Constitution.a The rejection of Kamathas proposed amendment was a conscious decision, which clearly indicates that the Constituent Assembly recognised the constitutional rights of anon-believers.a The aright not to believea is a matter of choice, which was protected in the afreedom of conscience.a Judicial Precedents However, the Indian courts often confused this basic understanding of the Constitution by considering atheism or agnosticism as a facet of religion. The Supreme Court in Commissioner, Hindu Religious Endowments, Madras v Sri Lakshmindra Thirtha Swamiar of Sri Shipur Mutt (1954), concluded that areligiona is certainly a matter of faith for individuals or communities and it is not necessarily theistic. Referring to well-known religions in India which do not believe in god, it was observed that ait would not be correct to say that religion is nothing else but a doctrine or belief. A religion may not only lay down a code of ethical rules for its followers to accept.a This view was reiterated in Ratilal Panachand Gandhi v State of Bombay (1954), where it was observed further that our Constitution-makers have made no attempt to define what areligiona is and, therefore, it is not certainly possible to frame an exhaustive definition of the word areligiona which would be applicable to all classes of persons. In Atheist Society of India v Govt of Andhra Pradesh (1992), the Andhra Pradesh High Court expressly stated that absence of faith in any religion and god may itself be called a aparticular faith.a It also stated: aThere is no constitutional guarantee to the faith of the Atheists who worship the barren reason that there is no God.a This Aapproach by the courts was quite contrary to the principles enshrined in the Constitution. A shift towards the correct approach was seen in the judgment of the Bombay High Court in Ranjit Suryakant Mohite v Union of India (2014). While defining aconsciencea as amoral sense of right or wrong as applied to oneas own judgment and actions,a the high court held that afreedom of consciencea under Article 25 of the Constitution aencompasses in itself a freedom to an individual to take a view that he does not belong to any religion.a The court made it clear that Article 25 of the Constitution includes the right to be an atheist and that the afreedom of consciencea includes a right not to profess, practice or propagate any religion. It was also held that no one can be compelled to follow any religion. The recent judgments of the Supreme Court now specifically recognise and protect the fundamental right of an individual to be an atheist or a non-believer. In its nine-judge bench decision in the right to privacy case, Justice K S Puttaswamy (Retd) v Union of India (2017), the Supreme Court held that the citizens of India have a fundamental right to privacy, which also includes athe ability to choose a faith and the freedom to express or not express those choices to the world.a The Court, while affirming the individual as the bearer of the constitutional guarantee of rights, held that privacy, being the core of the human personality, recognises the ability of each individual to make choices and to take decisions governing matters intimate and personal. Being an atheist is an expression of individual autonomy and choice. The Supreme Court in Shafin Jahan v Asokan K M (2018) reiterated that choices of faith and belief alie within an area where individual autonomy is supreme.a Social approval for such intimate personal decisions, thus, cannot be a basis to deny the right to be an atheist or non-believer. Constitutional morality, which overrides public or religious morality, as expressly held in the concurring opinions of Justice D Y Chandrachud in Government of NCT of Delhi v Union of India (2018) and Navtej Singh Johar v Union of India (2018), will protect and promote the fundamental right of an individual to be an atheist under Article 25. Moreover, even if the population of the atheists or non-believers is less, it does not have any effect on the importance of their constitutional rights. Justice Chandrachud (speaking for the Court) in the K S Puttaswamy case had held that a constitutional fundamental right cannot be denied, even if there is a aminiscule fraction of the populationa which is affected. This view has been reiterated by the recent constitution bench decision in the Navtej Singh Johar case, which has recognised and protected the constitutional rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQs). The jurisprudence evolved by the ASupreme Court in these judgments, which places individual rights as supreme, must be seen as an extension of B R Ambedkaras vision, when he stated before the Constituent Assembly (4 November 1948), aI am glad that the Draft Constitution has a adopted the individual as its unit.a It is, therefore, obvious that being an atheist or a non-believer is a separate identity under the Constitution. Article 25 and Atheism Another important aspect of afreedom of conscience,a which must be considered here, is the second part of Article 25(1) which provides for the right to freely aprofess, practice and propagate religion.a This right to propagate oneas religion, however, cannot infringe upon another personas right to freedom of religion. It was held by the Supreme Court in Lily Thomas v Union of India (2000) that an individualas fundamental right to aentertain the religious belief of his choicea and ato exhibit his belief and ideasa shall not ainfringe the religious right and personal freedom of others.a Since it has been made clear that atheism is distinct from religion (in legal terms) and implies absence of religion, a question arises: Would propagating atheism be said to be violative of Article 25? The answer would be in the negative. There are four main reasons in support of this assertion. First, the secular character of the Constitution preserves the rights of atheists. In St Xaviers College v State of Gujarat (1974), the Court had held, aSecularism is neither anti God nor pro God; it treats alike the devout, the antagonistic and the atheist.a Second, as stated earlier, India has legacy of great leaders, freedom fighters and revolutionaries who believed in atheism and propagated it. In P D Sundaresan v The Principal Secretary to Government (2012), the petitioner had challenged a government order granting permission to install the statue of Periyar, a strong proponent of atheism, in a school premises. It was contented that the installation of Periyaras statue will give room for developing atheism in the minds of students. The Madras High Court, while rejecting the plea, emphasised the necessity of the schoolchildren to know about the life and mission of Periyar. The high court held that understanding the philosophy of Periyar will help children in ahaving scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform,a which is a fundamental duty of every citizen under Article 51A(h) of the Constitution. Therefore, saying that India has no place for atheism would be defeating the rich legacy which these leaders have created, and would also undermine the fundamental duty enshrined under Article 51A(h). Third, as held in Sanjay Ananda Salve v The State of Maharashtra (2015) and reiterated in Ranjit Suryakant Mohite v Union of India (2015), the freedom of conscience and belief of an individual is a part of freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a).2 Fourth, the judgments in NALSA v Union of India (2014), and the K S Puttaswamy and the Navtej Singh Johar cases recognise self-determination, realisation of oneas own abilities, and rejection of external views in accordance with constitutional values as the core of oneas identity. Rejecting religious and social beliefs on the basis of scientific temperament is integral to the constitutional identity of atheists. Therefore, not allowing the propagation of atheism will be a clear violation of fundamental rights of the freedom of speech and expression, the freedom of conscience, the fundamental duties and the secular character of the Constitution. To state it succinctly, propagating atheism does not encroach upon anyoneas right to profess, practise and propagate religion. It is a combination of the freedom of conscience and the fundamental right to speech and expresAsion. However, Article 19(2)3 puts certain restrictions on the fundamental right to speech and expression. It is here that the conflict betAween the constitutional rights of atheists and Section 295A IPC4 comes into the picture. Section 295A Propagating atheism can cause tensions between the religious individuals/groups and non-believers, as it did in October 2016, when a private meeting of atheists, after being attacked by religious extremists, was made to be cancelled by the local administration on the grounds that it could pose a alaw and order problema (Hindu 2016) and acould have promoted communal disharmonya (Scroll 2016). Though India has no specific blasphemy law, Section 295A IPC, provides that acts done with adeliberate and malicious intention of outraging the religious feelings of any class of citizens of Indiaa are punishable. Therefore, a question would be: To what extent would propagating atheism be permisAsible? The constitutionality of Section 295A was upheld by a constitution bench of the Supreme Court in Ramji Lal Modi v State of UP (1957) on the grounds that, under Article 19(2) of the Constitution, it is a reasonable restriction upon the freedom of speech ain the interests of public order.a While giving wider interpretation to the phrase ain the interests of public order,a the Court held that a[a] law may not have been designed to directly maintain public order and yet it may have been enacted in the interests of public order.a However, Gautam Bhatia (2016) has argued that the judgment has aoutlived its utilitya and needs to be reconsidered. He has argued that the decision of the Supreme Court in the Ramji Lal Modi case, while holding that there is no requirement of proximity between speech and public disorder, ignored the aqualifying constraintsa placed by the term areasonable restrictionsa and that the subsequent decisions have aconsistently undermined and discardeda the stand taken in the Ramji Lal Modi case. In a subsequent decision by a constitution bench in Superintendent, Central Prison, Fatehgarh v Ram Manohar Lohia (1960), it was held that the Ramji Lal Modi case did not mean that aany remote or fanciful connectiona between the restriction and the public order would be sufficient to uphold the validity of the restriction. The Court held that a restriction, in order to be a reasonable restriction on the freedom of speech and expression, must have a aproximate relationshipa to the achievement of public order and anot one [which is] far-fetched, hypothetical or problematical or too remote in the chain of its relation with the public order.a The stand taken by the constitution bench in the Ram Manohar Lohia case is opposite to the view of a coordinate constitution bench in the Ramji Lal Modi case. Another constitution bench judgment in Kedar Nath Singh v State of Bihar (1962) read down the provisions of Section 124A5 (sedition) of the IPC. The Court held that a speech or comment criticising public measures on government action, however strongly worded, would not amount to sedition and would be within the domain of the fundamental right of freedom of speech and expression, unless it has an element of inciting violence and creating disturbance in law and order. A bench of three judges in S Rangarajan v P Jagjivan Ram (1989) held that a restriction sought to be imposed on freedom of speech must have a adirect nexusa with public order and should not be merely aremote, conjectural or far-fetched.a This nexus, the Court held, must be equivalent to a aspark in a powder keg.a The scope of above discussed aproximate nexusa between speech and public order was further restricted in a two-judge bench decision in Arup Bhuyan v State of Assam (2011), wherein the Court agreed that only a speech which leads to aimminent lawless actiona would be illegal. These judgments, as Bhatia (2016) has aptly stated, indicate that it requires aa very high threshold for the state to fulfil before invoking public disorder as a ground for restricting speech.a The ratio of these judgments is contrary to that in the Ramji Lal Modi case. Moreover, the Court in Shreya Singhal v Union of India (2015), while distinguishing adiscussiona and aadvocacya with aincitement,a held that a[m]ere discussion or even advocacy of a particular cause howsoever unpopular [unless it reaches the level of incitement]a would always remain at the heart of the fundamental right to speech and expression. The Court, while striking down Section 66A of the Information Technology Act, held that when a provision suffers from vagueness and over breadth in the sense that it criminalises protected speech and speech of innocent nature, it has a potential to create aa chilling effect on free speecha and is therefore liable to be struck down. The Court had also held that aa Arestriction in order to be reasonable must be narrowly tailored or narrowly interpreted so as to abridge or restrict only what is absolutely necessary.a The view that law should not be used in such a manner that it has a chilling effect on the freedom of speech and expression was also upheld in a previous decision of a Bench of three judges in S Khushboo v Kanniammal (2010). More recently in Navtej Singh Johar (2018), a constitution bench partially struck down Section 377 of the IPC, while holding it is amanifestly not only overboard and vague but also has a chilling effect on an individualas freedom of choice.a The right anot to believea is also a reflection of an individualas choice, and provisions such as Section 295A, which is overbroad, have a chilling effect on this choice. Section 295A has the potential to be misused to suppress the atheist assertions. It is for these compelling reasons that Section 295A IPC needs to be struck down. The decision in the Ramji Lal Modi case ought to be reconsidered by a larger bench. Till the time Section 295 IPC is on the statute book, it ought not to be attracted until a speech criticising religious beliefs or notions leads to imminent lawless action. It is against the above background that a recent bill passed by the Punjab assembly which seeks to amend Section 295A and also insert Section 295AA must be analysed. The Indian Penal Code (Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2018 seeks to insert Section 295AA to the IPC to provide that, awhoever causes injury, damage or sacrilege to Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Srimad Bhagwad Gita, Holy Quran and Holy Bible with the intention to hurt the religious feelings of the people, shall be punished with imprisonment for life.a The bill further states: aIn the Indian Penal Code, 1860, in its application to the State of Punjab, in section 295, for the words atwo years,a the words aten yearsa shall be substituted.a The definition of the inserted provision is vague and suffers from overbreadth. aSacrilegea itself is a vague term. The provision gives sweeping powers to the state to make arrests. It is a constitutional right of atheists and non-believers to not agree to the belief and teachings of religious texts. Section 295AA can have a achilling effecta on these disagreements. It can be used to silence atheists and non-believers who could question the notions of religious texts. Moreover, in Punjab, around 32% of the population comprises Dalits (Government of Punjab nd), whose struggle for social emancipation has consistently involved challenging the notions of religions and religious texts. Ambedkar had himself burnt a copy of Manusmriti as a symbolic move to challenge the varna system which supported inequality in society. Section 295AA and the amendment to Section 295A will have a negative impact on the struggle of Dalits for equality. The overbreadth with which Section 295AA suffers thus makes it liable to be struck down, when challenged before a constitutional court. This would also give an opportunity to the Supreme Court to reconsider its decision in the Ramji Lal Modi case. Marriage and Succession A petition filed by an advocate praying to abandon all religious beliefs and be declared non-religious was struck down by the Court on the grounds that, if sanctioned legally, it could complicate matters for his family members as, after his death, they would be caught in a legal trap on several issues like inheritance or rituals, etc (Times of India 2012). In this regard, it must be noted that Parliament had enacted the Special Marriage Act (SMA), 1954 to aprovide a special form of marriage which can be taken advantage of by any person in India and all Indian nationals in foreign countries irrespective of the faith which either party to the marriage may professa (Statement of Objects and Reasons). It is stated that while there are separate marriage laws for Hindus, Muslims, and Christians under the SMA, the non-religious can have marriage ceremonies free from any mention of caste or creed. A marriage solemnised under the SMA does not have mandatory requirement of any religious or ceremonial rites, and is a type of civil contract. Succession and maintenance are two important aspects of the issue of marriage. Section 216 of SMA provides that succession to the property of any person whose marriage is solemnised under the SMA and to the property of the issue of such marriage shall be governed by the provisions of the Indian Succession Act, 1925. Sections 367 and 378 of SMA provide for alimony and maintenance for wives. Apart from this, the wife who has been married under the SMA can also seek maintenance under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. Conclusions The Indian Constitution provides equal rights to all citizens. Freedom of religion and conscience includes the freedom not to believe. A person should be allowed to say that they belong to ano religiona and are atheist. The rights of atheists and non-believers are of equal importance as compared to fundamental right to religion. The citizens must not be compelled by the state to fit into one religion or the other. In protecting the rights of atheists, the people of the country will speak of the kind of country they want to live in. This may require certain minimum efforts. For instance, while filling up various forms for various purposes by various authorities, a person should have a right to state that they belong to ano religion.a Individuals, who are not willing to take oath in the name of god or by putting their hands on any religious book, should be allowed to take oath in the name of the Constitution.9 Further, provisions such as Sections 295A and 295AA (as passed by Punjab assembly) undermine the constitutional rights of atheists. Section 295AA particularly sets a bad precedent for other states to follow. If in the future any government decides to expand such provisions to all religious objects and beliefs, it would end any challenge to religious notions for all practical purposes. It would also be defeating to the legacy of our leaders, such as Ambedkar, Periyar, Bhagat Singh, Lohia, and others. Thus, it is high time that the presence of these penal provisions on the statute book be reconsidered. Notes 1 Article 25(1) of the Indian Constitution states that: aSubject to public order, morality and health and to the other provisions of this Part, all persons are equally entitled to freedom of conscience and the right freely to profess, practise and propagate religion.a 2 Constitution of India 1950, Article 19(1)(a) provides: aAll citizens shall have the righta(a) to freedom of speech and expression.a 3 Constitution of India 1950, Article 19(2) provides: aNothing in sub-clause (a) of clause (1) shall affect the operation of any existing law, or prevent the State from making any law, in so far as such law imposes reasonable restrictions on the exercise of the right conferred by the said sub-clause in the interests of 4 [the sovereignty and integrity of India,] the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, defamation or incitement to an offence.a 4 Section 295A of Indian Penal Code states: aWhoever, with deliberate and malicious intention of outraging the religious feelings of any class of citizens of India, by words, either spoken or written, or by signs or by visible representations or otherwise, insults or attempts to insult the religion or the religious beliefs of that class, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.a 5 Section 124A of Indian Penal Code states: aSeditionaWhoever by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards, the Government established by law in [India], shall be punished with [imprisonment for life], to which fine may be added, or with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which fine may be added, or with fine.a 6 Section 21, SMA provides: aSuccession to property of parties married under ActaNotwithstanding any restrictions contained in the Indian Succession Act, 1925 (39 of 1925), with respect to its application to members of certain communities, succession to the property of any person whose marriage is solemnized under this Act and to the property of the issue of such marriage shall be regulated by the provisions of the said Act and for the purposes of this section that Act shall have effect as if Chapter III of Part V (Special Rules for Parsi Intestates) had been omitted therefrom.a 7 Section 36 provides: aWhere in any proceeding under Chapter V or Chapter VI it appears to the district court that the wife has no independent income sufficient for her support and the necessary expenses of the proceeding, it may, on the application of the wife, order the husband to pay to her the expenses of the proceeding, and weekly or monthly during the proceeding such sum as having regard to the husbandas income, it may seem to the court to be reasonable.a 8 Section 37(1) provides: aAny court exercising jurisdiction under Chapter V or Chapter VI may, at the time of passing any decree or at any time subsequent to the decree, on application made to it for the purpose, order that the husband shall secure to the wife for her maintenance and support, if necessary, by a charge on the husbandas property such gross sum or such monthly or periodical payment of money for a term not exceeding her life, as, having regard to her own property, if any, her husbandas property and ability 5 [the conduct of the parties and other circumstances of the case], it it may seem to the court to be just.a 9 A PIL (public interest litigation) was filed in this regard on the grounds that the Oaths Act, 1969 is violative of Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Indian Constitution (Hindustan Times 2016). References Bhatia, Gautam (2016): aThe Constitutional Case against Indiaas Blasphemy Law,a 18 January, https://thewire.in/19508/the-constitutional-case-against-indias-blasphemy-law/. CAD (1949): Constituent Assembly of India, 17 October, http://parliamentofindia.nic.in/ls/debates/v10p10m.htm. Government of Punjab (n d): aScheduled Caste Population in Punjab: An Overview,a Department of Welfare of Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes and Minorities, http://welfarepunjab.gov.in/Static/SCPopulation.html. Hindustan Times (2016): aCan Atheists Swear in the Name of Constitution: PIL Filed in Bombay HC,a 14 April, http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/can-atheists-swear-in-the-name-of-constitution-pil-filed-in-bombay-hc/story-UcSbWiof7itguGKEkgOK7K.html. Hindu (2016): aHindutva Activists Attack, Force Cancellation of Private Meeting of Atheists in Mathura,a 14 October, http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/Hindutva-activists-attack-force-cancellation-of-private-meeting-of-atheists-in-Mathura/article16071222.ece. Indian Express (2014): aThe Right Not to Believe,a 2 October, http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/the-right-not-to-believe/. Scroll (2016): aHindu, Muslim Groups Come Together in Violent Protest against Meeting of Atheists in Mathura,a 15 October, http://scroll.in/latest/ 819082/hindu-muslim-groups-come-together-in-violent-protest-against-meeting-of-atheists-in-mathura. Times of India (2012): aLawyeraS Plea to Renounce Faith Quashed,a 22 February, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/thane/Lawyers-plea-to-renounce-faith-quashed/articleshow/11983819.cms. WIN-Gallup Report (2012): aGlobal Index of Religion and Atheism,a http://www.wingia.com/web/files/news/14/file/14.pdf. CASES CITED Arup Bhuyan v State of Assam (2011): SCC 3, p 377. Atheist Society of India v Govt of Andhra Pradesh (1992): AIR AP, p 310. Commissioner, Hindu Religious Endowments, Madras v Sri Lakshmindra Thirtha Swamiar of Sri Shipur Mutt (1954): AIR SC, p 282. Government of NCT of Delhi v Union of India (2018): SCALE 8, p 72. Justice K S Puttaswamy (Retd) v Union of India (2017): SCALE 10, p 1. Kedar Nath Singh v State of Bihar (1962): AIR SC, p 955. Lily Thomas v Union of India (2000): SCC 6, p 224. NALSA v Union of India (2014): SCC 5, p 438. Navtej Singh Johar v Union of India (2018): judgment delivered on 6 September. P D Sundaresan v The Principal Secretary to Government (2012): 5 MLJ 208. Ramji Lal Modi v State of UP (1957): AIR, p 620. Ranjit Suryakant Mohite v Union of India (2015): (6) Bom CR 609. Ratilal Panachand Gandhi v State of Bombay, (1954): AIR SC, p 388. S Khushboo v Kanniammal (2010): SCC 5, p 600. S Rangarajan v P Jagjivan Ram (1989): SCC 2, p 574. Sanjay Ananda Salve v The State of Maharashtra (2014) (6) BomCR 142. Shafin Jahan v Asokan KM (2018): SCALE 5, p 422. Shreya Singhal v Union of India (2015): AIR SC, p 1523. St Xaviers College v State of Gujarat (1974): AIR SC, p 1389. Superintendent, Central Prison, Fatehgarh v Ram Manohar Lohia (1960): AIR SC, p 633. Authors: Anurag Bhaskar (anuragbhaskar007[at]gmail.com) is an LLM student at Harvard Law School. Shubham Kumar (kumarshubham2309[at]gmail.com) is an undergraduate student at Dr Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University, Lucknow. IQE plc develops, manufactures, and sells advanced semiconductor materials. The company operates in three segments: Wireless, Photonics, and CMOS++. 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The company also provides photonics products, which include vertical cavity surface emitting lasers, a 3D sensing technology that enables facial recognition, gesture control, light detection and ranging (LiDAR), and other advanced sensing applications; indium phosphide (InP) laser and detector wafers that powers high speed, 5G telecommunication, and data communication fiber optic networks; Gallium Nitride (GaN) and gallium arsenide (GaSb) for multicolor uLED displays; and a range of gallium antimonide (GaSb) and InP materials that enables high definition infrared imaging and sensing in security, health monitoring, and environmental applications. In addition, it offers substrate products, such as GaSb, InP, InAs, InSb, GaSb, CZT, custom size or geometry wafers, polycrystalline materials, high purity group iii/v source materials, and bespoke orientation substrates. Further, the company provides nanoimprint lithography services. The company serves in the United States, rest of the Americas, France, Germany, Israel, the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the People's Republic of China, Japan, Taiwan, and rest of the Asia-Pacific. IQE plc was founded in 1988 and is headquartered in Cardiff, the United Kingdom. Read More 9 hours ago Climate consensus appears near; India objects to coal plans GLASGOW, Scotland (AP) Almost 200 nations were poised Saturday to adopt a compromise on how to curb climate change and to keep a key global warming target alive after 15 days of contentious climate talks. During nearly three hours of discussions, nation after nation said the proposed agreement did not go far enough, but only India and Iran appeared inclined to object. Read Article iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF's stock was trading at $39.49 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, IEUR stock has increased by 50.8% and is now trading at $59.55. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Shares of iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF reverse split on Monday, November 7th 2016. The 1-4 reverse split was announced on Friday, October 14th 2016. The number of shares owned by shareholders was adjusted after the market closes on Friday, November 4th 2016. An investor that had 100 shares of iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF stock prior to the reverse split would have 25 shares after the split. 1 Wall Street research analysts have issued "buy," "hold," and "sell" ratings for TransEnterix in the last twelve months. There are currently 1 hold rating for the stock. The consensus among Wall Street research analysts is that investors should "hold" TransEnterix stock. A hold rating indicates that analysts believe investors should maintain any existing positions they have in TRXC, but not buy additional shares or sell existing shares. View analyst ratings for TransEnterix or view top-rated stocks. TransGlobe Energy Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of crude oil and natural gas in Egypt and Canada. The company holds interests in four production sharing concessions, which include West Gharib, West Bakr, NW Gharib, and South Ghazalat, Egypt; and owns production and working interests in facilities in the Cardium light oil and Mannville liquid-rich gas assets in the Harmattan area of west central Alberta, Canada. TransGlobe Energy Corporation was incorporated in 1968 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Read More Mallinckrodt plc (NYSE:MNK) released its earnings results on Tuesday, August, 4th. The company reported $1.89 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.34 by $0.55. The company earned $700.90 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $630.19 million. Mallinckrodt had a positive trailing twelve-month return on equity of 34.26% and a negative net margin of 89.94%. Mallinckrodt's quarterly revenue was down 14.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $2.53 earnings per share. View Mallinckrodt's earnings history. There is not enough analysis data for Ariana Resources. 3.6 Community Rank Outperform Votes Ariana Resources has received 218 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.) Underperform Votes Ariana Resources has received 193 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.) Community Sentiment Ariana Resources has received 53.04% outperform votes from our community. MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about Ariana Resources and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe AAU will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe AAU will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days. Previous Next The following companies are subsidiares of BorgWarner: B80 Italia S.r.l., BERU AG, BW El Salto S.A. De C.V., BWA Receivables Corporation, BWA Turbo Systems Holding LLC, Borg Warner Europe Holdings (PDS) B. V., BorgWarner (China) Investment Co. Ltd., BorgWarner (Reman) Holdings L.L.C., BorgWarner (Thailand) Limited, BorgWarner Aftermarket Europe GmbH, BorgWarner Alternators Inc., BorgWarner Arden LLC, BorgWarner Arnstadt RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Asia Inc., BorgWarner Automotive Asia Limited, BorgWarner Automotive Components (Beijing) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Jiangsu) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Wuhan) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Brasil Ltda., BorgWarner Chungju Co. LLC, BorgWarner Comercial e Distribuidora de Pecas para Veiculos Automotores Ltda., BorgWarner Comercializadora PDS S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner Componentes PDS S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner Cooling Systems (India) Private Limited, BorgWarner Cooling Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Diversified Transmission Products Services Inc., BorgWarner Drivetrain Engineering GmbH, BorgWarner Drivetrain Management Services de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Drivetrain de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Electric Motors L.L.C., BorgWarner Emissions Systems (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Emissions Systems (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Emissions Systems Holding LLC, BorgWarner Emissions Systems India Private Limited, BorgWarner Emissions Systems LLC, BorgWarner Emissions Systems Portugal Unipessoal LDA, BorgWarner Emissions Systems Spain S.L.U., BorgWarner Emissions Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner Emissions Talegaon Private Limited, BorgWarner Engineering Ketsch RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Engineering Kibo RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Esslingen GmbH, BorgWarner Europe GmbH, BorgWarner Europe Holding S.a. r. l., BorgWarner Gateshead Limited, BorgWarner Germany Holding GmbH, BorgWarner Germany Holding Services GmbH, BorgWarner Germany REH GmbH, BorgWarner Germany REM GmbH, BorgWarner Germany Verwaltungs GmbH, BorgWarner Global Holding S.a. r. l., BorgWarner Heidelberg I RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Heidelberg II RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Heidelberg REH GmbH, BorgWarner Heidelberg REM GmbH, BorgWarner Holding Inc., BorgWarner Holdings Limited, BorgWarner Hungary Kft., BorgWarner IT Services Europe GmbH, BorgWarner India Holdings Inc., BorgWarner Investment Holding Inc., BorgWarner Ithaca LLC, BorgWarner Ketsch Plant RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Ketsch REH GmbH, BorgWarner Ketsch REM GmbH, BorgWarner Kft., BorgWarner Kibo RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Korea Holdings (PDS) B.V., BorgWarner Korea Holdings LLC, BorgWarner Korea LLC, BorgWarner Limited, BorgWarner Ludwigsburg GmbH, BorgWarner Ludwigsburg RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Markdorf Plant RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Markdorf REH GmbH, BorgWarner Markdorf REM GmbH, BorgWarner Massachusetts Inc., BorgWarner Mauritius Holdings Ltd., BorgWarner Mexico Holding BV, BorgWarner Mexico Holdings II LLC, BorgWarner Mexico Holdings LLC, BorgWarner Morse Systems India Private Limited, BorgWarner Morse Systems Italy S.r.l., BorgWarner Morse Systems Japan K.K., BorgWarner Morse Systems Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Muggendorf RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner NW Inc., BorgWarner Netherlands Holdings (PDS) B.V., BorgWarner Oroszlany Kft., BorgWarner PDS (Anderson) L.L.C., BorgWarner PDS (Changnyeong) LLC, BorgWarner PDS (Indiana) Inc., BorgWarner PDS (Livonia) Inc., BorgWarner PDS (Ochang) LLC, BorgWarner PDS (Thailand) Limited, BorgWarner PDS (USA) Inc., BorgWarner PDS Brasil Produtos Automotivos Ltda., BorgWarner PDS Irapuato S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner PDS Mexico Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner PDS Technologies L.L.C., BorgWarner Poland Sp. z o.o., BorgWarner Pyongtaek LLC, BorgWarner Romeo Power LLC, BorgWarner Rzeszow Sp. z o.o., BorgWarner Shenglong (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner South Asia LLC, BorgWarner Southborough Inc., BorgWarner Spain Holding S.L.U, BorgWarner Sweden AB, BorgWarner Systems Lugo S.r.l., BorgWarner Thermal Systems Inc., BorgWarner Thermal Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems Beijing Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Tralee Ltd., BorgWarner Transmission Products LLC, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Arnstadt GmbH, BorgWarner Transmission Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Korea LLC, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Tulle S.A.S., BorgWarner Trustees Limited, BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems France S.A.S., BorgWarner Turbo Systems Engineering GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems LLC, BorgWarner Turbo Systems Worldwide Headquarters GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner Turbo and Emissions Systems de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner UK Financing Ltd., BorgWarner UK Holding and Services Ltd., BorgWarner US Holding LLC, BorgWarner USA Industries L.L.C., BorgWarner United Transmission Systems Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Waterloo Inc., BorgWarner Wrexham Limited, Cascadia Motion LLC, Creon Insurance Agency Limited, Delphi Technologies, Dytech ENSA, Gustav Wahler GmbH u. Co. KG, Haldex, Kuhlman LLC, Kysor Europe Limited, M. & M. Knopf Auto Parts L.L.C., NSK-Warner (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., NSK-Warner K.K., NSK-Warner Mexico S.A. de C.V, NSK-Warner U.S.A. Inc., New PDS Corp., Old Remco Holdings L.L.C., Old Remco International Holdings L.L.C., Remy International, SeohanWarner Turbo Systems LLC, Sevcon, Sevcon New Energy Technology (Hubei) Company Limited, and Transmission Systems AutoForm LLC. FactSet Research Systems Inc. (the ""Company"" or ""FactSet"") is a global provider of integrated financial information, analytical applications and services for the investment and corporate communities. Since inception, global financial professionals have utilized the Company's content and multi-asset class solutions across each stage of the investment process. FactSet's goal is to provide a seamless user experience spanning idea generation, research, portfolio construction, trade execution, performance measurement, risk management, reporting, and portfolio analysis, in which the Company serves the front, middle, and back offices to drive productivity and improved performance. FactSet's flexible, open data and technology solutions can be implemented both across the investment portfolio lifecycle or as standalone components serving different workflows in the organization. FactSet is focused on growing the business throughout each of its three segments, the Americas, EMEA (formerly known as Europe), and Asia Pacific. The Company primarily delivers insight and information through the workflow solutions of Research, Analytics and Trading, Content and Technology Solutions (""CTS"") and Wealt Read More Smart & Final Stores, Inc. operates as a food retailer in the United States. It operates in two segments, Smart & Final and Smart Foodservice. The company's stores offer fresh perishables and everyday grocery items, such as produce, meat and deli, dairy and cheese, grocery, and beverage products, as well as paper and packaging, and restaurant equipment and janitorial supplies. It also provides various private label products under the First Street, Sun Harvest, Simply Value, La Romanella, Montecito, Iris, and Ambiance brands. The company sells its products to household and business customers; restaurants; caterers; and various other foodservice businesses, such as food trucks and coffee houses through vendors and suppliers. As of December 30, 2018, it operated 326 grocery and foodservice stores, including 59 Smart & Final stores, 201 Smart & Final Extra! stores, and 66 Smart Foodservice Warehouse stores located in California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Nevada, Idaho, Montana, and Utah, as well as 15 stores in Northwestern Mexico operated through a joint venture. Smart & Final Stores, Inc. was founded in 1871 and is headquartered in Commerce, California. Read More Credit Suisse X-Links Monthly Pay 2xLeveraged Mortgage REIT ETNs' stock was trading at $16.80 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, REML shares have decreased by 57.0% and is now trading at $7.23. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. The following companies are subsidiares of Quaker Chemical: AC Products Inc., Applied Surface Concepts Holdings Ltd. , Binol AB, Binol Biosafe OY, Commonwealth Oil Corporation, DA Stuart India Private Limited, DA Stuart Shanghai Co, ECLI Products LLC, EFHCO LLC, Engineered Custom Lubricants, Engineered Custom Lubricants GmbH, Epmar Corporation, G.W. Smith and Sons, GH Holdings Inc., GHG Lubricants Holdings Limited, GHGL London Ltd., GHI Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Global Houghton Ltd., Houghton (Shanghai) Specialty Industrial Fluids Co. Ltd, Houghton Argentina S.A., Houghton Asia Pacific Co. Limited, Houghton Australia Pty. Ltd., Houghton Benelux BV, Houghton CZ s.r.o, Houghton Canada Inc., Houghton Denmark AS, Houghton Deutschland GmbH, Houghton Europe BV, Houghton Holdings Limited, Houghton Iberica S.A. , Houghton International, Houghton International Inc., Houghton Italia S.p.A., Houghton Japan Co. Ltd., Houghton Kimya Sanayi AS, Houghton Magyarorszag Kft, Houghton Mexico S.A. de C.V., Houghton Oil (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd., Houghton Polska Sp. Zo.o., Houghton Romania S.R.L., Houghton S.A.S., Houghton Sverige AB, Houghton Taiwan Co. Limited, Houghton Technical Corp., Houghton Ukraine ToV, Houghton do Brazil Ltda., Houghton plc, Internationale Metall Impragnier GmbH, Lubricor Inc, Lubricor Inc., Lubricor Mexicana S.A. de C.V., Lubricor USA Inc., MIH Acquisition Company LLC, MX Systems International Ltd, Maldaner GmbH, NP Coil Dexter Industries, New Houghton Brazil Inc., Norman Hay Engineering Ltd., QH Chemical Limited, QH Europe BV, QH Holdings Limited, QH International Limited, Quaker (Thailand) Ltd., Quaker Australia Holdings Pty. Limited, Quaker Chemical (Australasia) Pty. Limited, Quaker Chemical (China) Co. Ltd., Quaker Chemical B.V., Quaker Chemical CV, Quaker Chemical Canada Holdings Inc., Quaker Chemical Canada Limited, Quaker Chemical Europe B.V., Quaker Chemical Holdings South Africa (Pty) Limited, Quaker Chemical India Private Limited, Quaker Chemical Industria e Comercio Ltda., Quaker Chemical Investment Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Quaker Chemical Limited, Quaker Chemical MEA FZE, Quaker Chemical Operacoes Ltda., Quaker Chemical Participacoes Ltda., Quaker Chemical S.A., Quaker Chemical S.r.l., Quaker Chemical Services EURL, Quaker Chemical South Africa (Pty.) Limited, Quaker China Holdings B.V., Quaker Denmark ApS, Quaker Houghton (Finco) Ltd., Quaker Houghton Holdings Limited, Quaker Houghton Holdings Ltd., Quaker Houghton International LP, Quaker Houghton Ltd., Quaker International Holdings LLC, Quaker Italia S.r.l., Quaker Russia B.V., Quaker Sales Europe BV, Quaker Shanghai Trading Company Limited, Quaker Spain Holding SLU, Quaker Specialty Chemicals (UK) Limited, SB Decking Inc., SIFCO Applied Surface Concepts (UK) Ltd, SIFCO Applied Surface Concepts LLC, SIFCO Concepts Sarl, SIFCO Concepts Sweden, Sterr & Eder Industrieservice GmbH, Summit Lubricants Inc, Summit Lubricants Inc., Surface Technology (Coventry) Ltd, Surface Technology (Dalian) Co Ltd, Surface Technology (East Kilbride) Ltd., Surface Technology (Leeds) Ltd, Surface Technology Aberdeen Ltd, Surface Technology Australia, Surface Technology Holdings Ltd., TecniQuimia Mexicana, Tecniquimia Mexicana S.A. de C.V., Thai Houghton 1993 Co. Ltd., Ultraseal Asia Limited, Ultraseal Chongqing Limited, Ultraseal Germany GmbH, Ultraseal International Group Ltd, Ultraseal Machinery Dongguan Ltd, Ultraseal Shanghai Limited, Ultraseal USA Inc., Unitek Servicios De Asesoria Especializad S.A de C.V., Verkol S.A.U., Verkol SAU, Wallover Enterprises Inc., Wallover Oil Company Incorporated, Wallover Oil Hamilton Inc., and Wuhan Quaker Technology Co. Ltd. There is not enough analysis data for Input Capital. 4.7 Community Rank Outperform Votes Input Capital has received 244 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.) Underperform Votes Input Capital has received 100 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.) Community Sentiment Input Capital has received 70.93% outperform votes from our community. MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about Input Capital and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe INP will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe INP will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days. Previous Next Invesco Municipal Income Opportunities Trust is a closed-ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Invesco Ltd. The fund is co-managed by Invesco Advisers, Inc., INVESCO Asset Management Deutschland GmbH, INVESCO Asset Management Limited, INVESCO Asset Management (Japan) Limited, Invesco Hong Kong Limited, INVESCO Senior Secured Management, Inc., and Invesco Canada Ltd. It invests in the fixed income markets of the United States. The fund primarily invests in municipal bonds rated BB or better by Standard & Poor's or Ba or better by Moody's. It employs fundamental analysis with bottom-up security selection approach to create its portfolio. The fund was previously known as Morgan Stanley Municipal Income Opportunities Trust. Invesco Municipal Income Opportunities Trust was formed on September 19, 1988 and is domiciled in the United States. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Lloyds Banking Group: A G Finance Ltd, A.C.L. Ltd, ACL Autolease Holdings Ltd, ADF No.1 Pty Ltd, Addison Social Housing Holdings Ltd, Alex Lawrie Factors Ltd, Alex. Lawrie Receivables Financing Ltd, Amberdate Ltd, Anglo Scottish Utilities Partnership 1, Aquilus Ltd, Automobile Association Personal Finance Ltd, BOS (Ireland) Property Services 2 Ltd, BOS (Ireland) Property Services Ltd, BOS (Shared Appreciation Mortgages (Scotland) No. 2) Ltd, BOS (Shared Appreciation Mortgages (Scotland) No. 3) Ltd, BOS (Shared Appreciation Mortgages (Scotland)) Ltd, BOS (Shared Appreciation Mortgages) No. 1 plc, BOS (Shared Appreciation Mortgages) No. 2 plc, BOS (Shared Appreciation Mortgages) No. 3 plc, BOS (Shared Appreciation Mortgages) No. 4 plc, BOS (Shared Appreciation Mortgages) No. 5 plc, BOS (Shared Appreciation Mortgages) No. 6 plc, BOS (USA) Fund Investments Inc., BOS (USA) Inc., BOS Edinburgh No 1 Ltd, BOS Mistral Ltd, BOS Personal Lending Ltd, BOSSAF Rail Ltd, Bank of Scotland (B G S) Nominees Ltd, Bank of Scotland (Stanlife) London Nominees Ltd, Bank of Scotland Branch Nominees Ltd, Bank of Scotland Central Nominees Ltd, Bank of Scotland Edinburgh Nominees Ltd, Bank of Scotland Equipment Finance Ltd, Bank of Scotland Foundation, Bank of Scotland LNG Leasing (No 1) Ltd, Bank of Scotland London Nominees Ltd, Bank of Scotland Nominees (Unit Trusts) Ltd, Bank of Scotland P.E.P. Nominees Ltd, Bank of Scotland Structured Asset Finance Ltd, Bank of Scotland Transport Finance 1 Ltd, Bank of Scotland plc, Bank of Wales Ltd, Barents Leasing Ltd, Barnwood Mortgages Ltd, Birchcrown Finance Ltd, Birmingham Midshires Financial Services Ltd, Birmingham Midshires Land Development Ltd, Birmingham Midshires Mortgage Services Ltd, Black Horse (TRF) Ltd, Black Horse Executive Mortgages Ltd, Black Horse Finance Holdings Ltd, Black Horse Finance Management Ltd, Black Horse Group Ltd, Black Horse Ltd, Black Horse Offshore Ltd, Black Horse Property Services Ltd, Boltro Nominees Ltd, British Linen Leasing (London) Ltd, British Linen Leasing Ltd, British Linen Shipping Ltd, C.T.S.B. Leasing Ltd, CBRail S.A.R.L., CF Asset Finance Ltd, CF1 Ltd, CM Venture Investments Ltd, Cancara Asset Securitisation Ltd, Capital 1945 Ltd, Capital Bank Leasing 12 Ltd, Capital Bank Leasing 3 Ltd, Capital Bank Leasing 5 Ltd, Capital Bank Leasing 9 Ltd, Capital Bank Property Investments (3) Ltd, Capital Personal Finance Ltd, Cardiff Auto Receivables Securitisation 2018-1 Plc, Cardiff Auto Receivables Securitisation 2019-1 Plc, Cardiff Auto Receivables Securitisation Holdings Ltd, Cardnet Merchant Services Ltd, Cashfriday Ltd, Cashpoint Ltd, Caveminster Ltd, Cedar Holdings Ltd, Celsius European Lux 2 S.A.R.L., Central Mortgage Finance Ltd, Chariot Finance Ltd, Cheltenham & Gloucester plc, Cheltenham II Securities 2020 DAC, Cheltenham Securities 2017 Ltd, Chepstow Blue Holdings Ltd, Chepstow Blue plc, Chester Asset Options No.2 Ltd, Chester Asset Options No.3 Ltd, Chester Asset Receivables Dealings Issuer Ltd, Chester Asset Securitisation Holdings Ltd, Chester Asset Securitisation Holdings No.2 Ltd, Chiswell Stockbrokers Ltd, Clerical Medical Finance plc, Clerical Medical Financial Services Ltd, Clerical Medical International Holdings B.V., Clerical Medical Investment Fund Managers Ltd, Clerical Medical Managed Funds Ltd, Clerical Medical Non Sterling Guadalix Hold Co BV, Clerical Medical Non Sterling Guadalix Spanish Prop Co SL, Clerical Medical Non Sterling Megapark Hold Co BV, Clerical Medical Non Sterling Megapark Prop Co SA, Clerical Medical Non Sterling Property Company S.A.R.L., Cloak Lane Funding S.A.R.L., Cloak Lane Investments S.A.R.L., Conquest Securities Ltd, Corbiere Asset Investments Ltd, Create Services Ltd, Credit Card Securitisation Europe Ltd, Dalkeith Corporation, Deva Financing Holdings Ltd, Deva Financing plc, Deva One Ltd, Deva Three Ltd, Deva Two Ltd, Dunstan Investments (UK) Ltd, Edgbaston RMBS 2010-1 plc, Edgbaston RMBS Holdings Ltd, Elland RMBS 2018 plc, Elland RMBS Holdings Ltd, Eurolead Services Holdings Ltd, First Retail Finance (Chester) Ltd, Fontwell Securities 2016 Ltd, Forthright Finance Ltd, France Industrial Premises Holding Company, General Leasing (No. 12) Ltd, General Reversionary and Investment Company, Gresham Nominee 1 Ltd, Gresham Nominee 2 Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 1) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 10) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 11) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 12) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 13) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 14) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 15) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 16) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 19) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 20) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 21) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 22) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 23) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 24) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 25) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 26) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 27) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 28) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 29) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 3) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 30) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 31) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 32) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 33) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 34) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 35) Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 36) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 37) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 38) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 39) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 40) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 41) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 44) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 45) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 46) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 47) UK Ltd, Gresham Receivables (No. 48) UK Ltd, Guildhall Asset Purchasing Company (No 3) Ltd, Guildhall Asset Purchasing Company (No.11) UK Ltd, HBOS Covered Bonds LLP, HBOS Final Salary Trust Ltd, HBOS Financial Services Ltd, HBOS Insurance & Investment Group Ltd, HBOS International Financial Services Holdings Ltd, HBOS Investment Fund Managers Ltd, HBOS Social Housing Covered Bonds LLP, HBOS UK Ltd, HBOS plc, HSDL Nominees Ltd, HVF Ltd, Halifax Credit Card Ltd, Halifax Financial Brokers Ltd, Halifax Financial Services (Holdings) Ltd, Halifax Financial Services Ltd, Halifax General Insurance Services Ltd, Halifax Group Ltd, Halifax Investment Services Ltd, Halifax Leasing (June) Ltd, Halifax Leasing (March No.2) Ltd, Halifax Leasing (September) Ltd, Halifax Life Ltd, Halifax Loans Ltd, Halifax Ltd, Halifax Mortgage Services Ltd, Halifax Nominees Ltd, Halifax Pension Nominees Ltd, Halifax Premises Ltd, Halifax Share Dealing Ltd, Halifax Vehicle Leasing (1998) Ltd, Heidi Finance Holdings (UK) Ltd, Hill Samuel Bank Ltd, Hill Samuel Finance Ltd, Hill Samuel Leasing Co. Ltd, Home Shopping Personal Finance Ltd, Horizon Capital 2000 Ltd, Housing Association Risk Transfer 2019 DAC, Housing Growth Partnership GP LLP, Housing Growth Partnership LP, Housing Growth Partnership Ltd, Housing Growth Partnership Manager Ltd, Hyundai Car Finance Ltd, IBOS Finance Ltd, ICC Enterprise Partners Ltd, ICC Equity Partners Ltd, ICC Holdings Unlimited Company, Inchcape Financial Services Ltd, Intelligent Finance Financial Services Ltd, Intelligent Finance Software Ltd, International Motors Finance Ltd, Kanaalstraat Funding C.V., Katrine Leasing Ltd, LB Healthcare Trustee Ltd, LB Motorent Ltd, LB Quest Ltd, LB Share Schemes Trustees Ltd, LBCF Ltd, LBG Brasil Administracao LTDA, LBG Capital Holdings Ltd, LBG Equity Investments Ltd, LBI Leasing Ltd, LDC (General Partner) Ltd, LDC (Managers) Ltd, LDC (Nominees) Ltd, LDC GP LLP, LDC I LP, LDC II LP, LDC III LP, LDC IV LP, LDC Parallel (Nominees) Ltd, LDC V LP, LDC VI LP, LDC VII LP, LDC VIII LP, LTGP Limited Partnership Incorporated, Legacy Renewal Company Ltd, Leicester Securities 2014 Ltd, Lex Autolease (CH) Ltd, Lex Autolease (VC) Ltd, Lex Autolease Carselect Ltd, Lex Autolease Ltd, Lex Vehicle Finance 2 Ltd, Lex Vehicle Leasing (Holdings) Ltd, Lex Vehicle Leasing Ltd, Lime Street (Funding) Ltd, Lingfield 2014 I Holdings Ltd, Lingfield 2014 I plc, Lloyds (Gresham) Ltd, Lloyds (Gresham) No. 1 Ltd, Lloyds (Nimrod) Specialist Finance Ltd, Lloyds America Securities Corporation1, Lloyds Asset Leasing Ltd, Lloyds Bank (Branches) Nominees Ltd, Lloyds Bank (Colonial & Foreign) Nominees Ltd, Lloyds Bank (Fountainbridge 1) Ltd, Lloyds Bank (Fountainbridge 2) Ltd, Lloyds Bank (I.D.) Nominees Ltd, Lloyds Bank (International Services) Ltd, Lloyds Bank (Stock Exchange Branch) Nominees Ltd, Lloyds Bank Asset Finance Ltd, Lloyds Bank Commercial Finance Ltd, Lloyds Bank Commercial Finance Scotland Ltd, Lloyds Bank Corporate Asset Finance (HP) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Corporate Asset Finance (No.1) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Corporate Asset Finance (No.2) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Corporate Asset Finance (No.3) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Corporate Asset Finance (No.4) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Corporate Markets Wertpapierhandelsbank GmbH, Lloyds Bank Corporate Markets plc, Lloyds Bank Covered Bonds (Holdings) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Covered Bonds (LM) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Covered Bonds LLP, Lloyds Bank Equipment Leasing (No. 1) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Equipment Leasing (No. 7) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Equipment Leasing (No. 9) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Financial Services (Holdings) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Foundation for England & Wales, Lloyds Bank Foundation for the Channel Islands, Lloyds Bank General Insurance Holdings Ltd, Lloyds Bank General Insurance Ltd, Lloyds Bank General Leasing (No. 11) Ltd, Lloyds Bank General Leasing (No. 17) Ltd, Lloyds Bank General Leasing (No. 20) Ltd, Lloyds Bank General Leasing (No. 3) Ltd, Lloyds Bank General Leasing (No. 5) Ltd, Lloyds Bank GmbH, Lloyds Bank Hill Samuel Holding Company Ltd, Lloyds Bank Insurance Services Ltd, Lloyds Bank International Ltd, Lloyds Bank Leasing (No. 6) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Leasing (No. 8) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Leasing Ltd, Lloyds Bank MTCH Ltd, Lloyds Bank Maritime Leasing (No. 10) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Maritime Leasing (No. 13) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Maritime Leasing (No. 17) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Maritime Leasing (No.16) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Nominees Ltd, Lloyds Bank Offshore Pension Trust Ltd, Lloyds Bank Pension ABCS (No. 1) LLP, Lloyds Bank Pension ABCS (No. 2) LLP, Lloyds Bank Pension Trust (No. 1) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Pension Trust (No. 2) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Pensions Property (Guernsey) Ltd, Lloyds Bank Properties Ltd, Lloyds Bank Property Company Ltd, Lloyds Bank S.F. Nominees Ltd, Lloyds Bank Subsidiaries Ltd, Lloyds Bank Trustee Services Ltd, Lloyds Bank plc, Lloyds Banking Group Pensions Trustees Ltd, Lloyds Capital GP Ltd, Lloyds Commercial Leasing Ltd, Lloyds Commercial Properties Ltd, Lloyds Commercial Property Investments Ltd, Lloyds Corporate Services (Jersey) Ltd, Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Ltd, Lloyds Engine Capital (No.1) U.S LLC, Lloyds Far East S.A.R.L., Lloyds General Leasing Ltd, Lloyds Group Holdings (Jersey) Ltd, Lloyds Holdings (Jersey) Ltd, Lloyds Hypotheken B.V., Lloyds Industrial Leasing Ltd, Lloyds International Pty Ltd, Lloyds Investment Bonds Ltd, Lloyds Investment Fund Managers Ltd, Lloyds Investment Securities No.5 Ltd, Lloyds Leasing (North Sea Transport) Ltd1, Lloyds Leasing Developments Ltd, Lloyds Nominees (Guernsey) Ltd, Lloyds Offshore Global Services Private Ltd, Lloyds Plant Leasing Ltd, Lloyds Portfolio Leasing Ltd, Lloyds Premises Investments Ltd, Lloyds Project Leasing Ltd, Lloyds Property Investment Company No. 3 Ltd, Lloyds Property Investment Company No. 4 Ltd, Lloyds Property Investment Company No.5 Ltd, Lloyds Secretaries Ltd, Lloyds Securities Inc., Lloyds TSB Pacific Ltd, Lloyds UDT Asset Leasing Ltd, Lloyds UDT Asset Rentals Ltd, Lloyds UDT Hiring Ltd, Lloyds UDT Leasing Ltd, Lloyds UDT Ltd, Lloyds Your Tomorrow Trustee Ltd, Loans.co.uk Ltd, London Taxi Finance Ltd, London Uberior (L.A.S. Group) Nominees Ltd, Lotus Finance Ltd, MBNA, MBNA Direct Ltd, MBNA Europe Finance Ltd, MBNA Europe Holdings Ltd, MBNA General Foundation, MBNA Global Services Ltd, MBNA Indian Services Private Ltd, MBNA Ltd, MBNA R & L S.A.R.L., MBNA Receivables Ltd, Mainsearch Company Ltd, Maritime Leasing (No. 19) Ltd, Membership Services Finance Ltd, Mitre Street Funding S.A.R.L., Molineux RMBS 2016-1 plc, Molineux RMBS Holdings Ltd, Moor Lane Holdings Ltd, NFU Mutual Finance Ltd, NWS Trust Ltd, Nominees (Jersey) Ltd, Nordic Leasing Ltd, Ocean Leasing (July) Ltd, Oystercatcher Nominees Ltd, Oystercatcher Residential Ltd, PIPS Asset Investments Ltd, Pacific Leasing Ltd, Penarth Asset Securitisation Holdings Ltd, Penarth Funding 1 Ltd, Penarth Funding 2 Ltd, Penarth Master Issuer plc, Penarth Receivables Trustee Ltd, Pensions Management (S.W.F.) Ltd, Peony Eastern Leasing Ltd, Peony Leasing Ltd, Peony Western Leasing Ltd, Permanent Funding (No. 1) Ltd, Permanent Funding (No. 2) Ltd, Permanent Holdings Ltd, Permanent Master Issuer plc, Permanent Mortgages Trustee Ltd, Permanent PECOH Holdings Ltd, Permanent PECOH Ltd, Perry Nominees Ltd, Prestonfield Investments Ltd, Proton Finance Ltd, R.F. Spencer And Company Ltd, Ranelagh Nominees Ltd, Retail Revival (Burgess Hill) Investments Ltd, SARL Coliseum, SARL Hiram, SAS Compagnie Fonciere De France, SCI Astoria Invest, SCI De LHorloge, SCI Equinoxe, SCI Rambuteau CFF, SW Funding plc, SW No.1 Ltd, SWAMF (GP) Ltd, SWAMF Nominee (1) Ltd, SWAMF Nominee (2) Ltd, Saint Michel Holding Company No1, Saint Michel Investment Property, Saint Witz 2 Holding Company No1, Saint Witz 2 Investment Property, Salisbury II Securities 2016 Ltd, Salisbury II-A Securities 2017 Ltd, Salisbury III Securities 2019 DAC, Salisbury Securities 2015 Ltd, Sandown 2012-2 Holdings Ltd, Sandown 2012-2 plc, Sandown Gold 2012-1 Holdings Ltd, Sandown Gold 2012-1 plc, Savban Leasing Ltd, Scotland International Finance B.V., Scottish Widows Administration Services (Nominees) Ltd, Scottish Widows Administration Services Ltd, Scottish Widows Annuities Ltd, Scottish Widows Auto Enrolment Services Ltd, Scottish Widows Europe, Scottish Widows Financial Services Holdings, Scottish Widows Group Ltd, Scottish Widows Industrial Properties Europe B.V., Scottish Widows Ltd, Scottish Widows Pension Trustees Ltd, Scottish Widows Property Management Ltd, Scottish Widows Schroder Personal Wealth (ACD) Ltd, Scottish Widows Schroder Personal Wealth Ltd, Scottish Widows Schroder Wealth Holdings Ltd, Scottish Widows Services Ltd, Scottish Widows Trustees Ltd, Scottish Widows Unit Funds Ltd, Scottish Widows Unit Trust Managers Ltd, Scottish Widows Fund and Life Assurance Society, Seabreeze Leasing Ltd, Seaspirit Leasing Ltd, Share Dealing Nominees Ltd, Shogun Finance Ltd, Silentdale Ltd, St Andrews Group Ltd, St Andrews Insurance plc, St Andrews Life Assurance plc, St. Marys Court Investments, Standard Property Investment (1987) Ltd, Standard Property Investment Ltd, Sussex County Homes Ltd, Suzuki Financial Services Ltd, Swan Funding 2 Ltd, Syon Securities 2019 DAC, The Agricultural Mortgage Corporation Plc, The British Linen Company Ltd, The Halifax Foundation for Northern Ireland, The Mortgage Business plc, Thistle Financing Holdings Ltd, Thistle Investments (AMC) Ltd, Thistle Investments (ERM) Ltd, Thistle Leasing, Three Copthall Avenue Ltd, Tower Hill Property Investments (10) Ltd, Tower Hill Property Investments (7) Ltd, Tranquility Leasing Ltd, Trinity Financing plc, UDT Budget Leasing Ltd, UDT Sales Finance Ltd, Uberior (Moorfield) Ltd, Uberior Co-Investments Ltd, Uberior ENA Ltd, Uberior Equity Ltd, Uberior Europe Ltd, Uberior Fund Investments Ltd, Uberior Infrastructure Investments (No.2) Ltd, Uberior Infrastructure Investments Ltd, Uberior Investments Ltd, Uberior Nominees Ltd, Uberior Trading Ltd, Uberior Trustees Ltd, Uberior Ventures Australia Pty Ltd, Uberior Ventures Ltd, United Dominions Leasing Ltd, United Dominions Trust Ltd, Universe The CMI Global Network Fund, Upsaala Ltd, Vine Street IX LP, WCS Ltd, Ward Nominees (Abingdon) Ltd, Ward Nominees (Birmingham) Ltd 1, Ward Nominees (Bristol) Ltd 1, Ward Nominees Ltd 1, Waverley Fund II Investor LLC, Waverley Fund III Investor LLC, Waymark Asset Investments Ltd, West Craigs Ltd, Wetherby II Securities 2018 DAC, Wetherby III Securities 2019 DAC, Wetherby Securities 2017 Ltd, Wood Street Leasing Ltd, and Zurich Insurance Group - UK Workplace Pensions and Savings Business. The following companies are subsidiares of Sysco: 2234829 Alberta ULC, 2234842 Alberta ULC, A. M. Briggs Inc., A.M. Briggs, Almacen Fiscal Frionet Caldera S.A., Almacen Fiscal Frionet Limon S.A., Appert's Foodservice, Arnotts (Fruit) Limited, Asian Foods, Bahamas Food Holdings Limited, Bahamas Food Services Limited, Brake Bros, Brake Bros Foodservice Ireland Limited, Brake Bros. Foodservice Limited, Brake Bros. Holding I Limited, Brake Bros. Ltd., Brakes Foodservice NI Limited, Buchy Food Service, Buckhead Beef Co., Buckhead Meat & Seafood of Houston Inc., Buckhead Meat Company, Buckhead Meat Midwest Inc., Buckhead Meat of Dallas Inc., Buckhead Meat of Denver Inc., Buckhead Meat of San Antonio LP, Buzztable Inc., CAKE Corporation, Central Seafood Co., Christys Wine & Spirits Limited, Clafra Aktiebolag, Colorado Boxed Beef Co - Specialty meat-cutting division, Corporacion Frionet Sociedad Anonima, Crossgar Foodservice, Crossgar Foodservice Limited, Crown I Enterprises Inc., Cucina Acquisitions (UK) Limited, Cucina Finance (UK) Limited, Cucina French Holdings Limited, Cucina Fresh Finance Limited, Cucina Fresh Investments Limited, Cucina Lux Investments Limited, Curleys Quality Foods Limited (Third Party), Davigel Belgilux S.A., Davigel Espana S.A., Desert Meats & Provisions, Distagro, Doerle Food Service, Doughtie's Foods Inc., Dust Bowl City LLC, Eko Fagel Fisk o mittemellan AB, Enclave Insurance Company, Enclave Parkway Association Inc., Enclave Properties LLC, European Imports, European Imports Inc., Figg Inc., Freedman Meats, Freedman Meats Inc., Freedman-KB Inc., Fresh Direct (UK) Limited, Fresh Direct Group Limited, Fresh Direct Limited, Fresh Holdings Limited, FreshPoint, FreshPoint Arizona Inc., FreshPoint Atlanta Inc., FreshPoint California Inc., FreshPoint Central California Inc., FreshPoint Central Florida Inc., FreshPoint Connecticut LLC, FreshPoint Dallas Inc., FreshPoint Denver Inc., FreshPoint Hawaii LLC, FreshPoint Inc., FreshPoint Las Vegas Inc., FreshPoint North Carolina Inc., FreshPoint North Florida Inc., FreshPoint Oklahoma City LLC, FreshPoint Pompano Real Estate LLC, FreshPoint Puerto Rico LLC, FreshPoint San Francisco Inc., FreshPoint South Florida Inc., FreshPoint South Texas Inc., FreshPoint Southern California Inc., FreshPoint Tomato LLC, FreshPoint Vancouver Ltd., Freshfayre Limited, Fruktservice i Helsingborg AB, GHS Classic Drinks Limited, Gilchrist & Soames Inc., Gilchrist & Soames UK Limited, Guest Packaging LLC, Guest Supply, Guest Supply Asia Limited, Guest Supply Singapore Pte. Ltd., International Food Group, Isakssons Frukt & Gront AB, J & M Wholesale Meats, J. Kings Food Service Professionals, J. Kings Food Service Professionals Inc., Kent Frozen Foods, Les Ateliers Du Gout, Liquid Assets Limited, M&J Seafood Holdings Limited, M&J Seafood Limited, Manchester Mills LLC, Mayca Autoservicio S.A., Mayca Distribuidores S.A., Menigo Foodservice AB, Mitshim Etatu Supply LP, Newport Meat Company, Newport Meat Northern California Inc., Newport Meat Pacific Northwest Inc., Newport Meat Southern California Inc., Newport Meat of Nevada Inc., North Star Holding Corporation, North Star Seafood, North Star Seafood Acquisition Corporation, North Star Seafood LLC, PFS de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Palisades Ranch Inc., Pallas Foods, Pallas Foods Farm Fresh Unlimited Company, Pallas Foods Unlimited Company, Pauleys Produce Limited, Promotora del Servicios S.A. de C.V., Restaurangakdemien AB, Restaurant of Tomorrow Inc., Rohan Viandes Elaboration SAS, SMS Bermuda Holdings, SMS GPC International Limited, SMS GPC International Resources Limited, SMS Global Holdings S.a.r.l., SMS International Resources Ireland Unlimited Company, SMS Lux Holdings LLC, SOTF LLC, SYY Netherlands C.V., SYY Panama S. de R.L., Serca Foodservice, Servicestyckarna I Johannes AB, Servicios Ameriserve S.A. de C.V., Shenzhen Guest Supply Trading Co. Limited, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) Bianchi Montegut, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) De Boiseau, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) De Garcelles, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) J.D. Lanjouan, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) Le Dauphin, Specialty Meat Holdings LLC, Stockflag Limited, Stockholms Fiskauktion AB, Supplies on the Fly, Sysco Albany LLC, Sysco Asian Foods Inc., Sysco Atlanta LLC, Sysco Autoservicio S.A., Sysco Baltimore LLC, Sysco Baraboo LLC, Sysco Bermuda Partners L.P., Sysco Boston LLC, Sysco Canada Holdings S.a.r.l., Sysco Canada Inc., Sysco Central Alabama LLC, Sysco Central California Inc., Sysco Central Florida Inc., Sysco Central Illinois Inc., Sysco Central Pennsylvania LLC, Sysco Charlotte LLC, Sysco Chicago Inc., Sysco Cincinnati LLC, Sysco Cleveland Inc., Sysco Columbia LLC, Sysco Connecticut LLC, Sysco Corporation, Sysco Corporation Director's Deferred Compensation Plan Trust, Sysco Corporation Employee's 401(k) Plan Trust, Sysco Corporation Executive Deferred Compensation Plan Trust, Sysco Corporation Good Government Committee Inc., Sysco Corporation Retirement Trust, Sysco Corporation Supplemental Executive Retirement Trust, Sysco Corporation Supplemental Unemployment Benefits Plan Trust, Sysco Detroit LLC, Sysco Disaster Relief Foundation Inc., Sysco EI VI S. s.r.l., Sysco EU II S.a.r.l., Sysco EU III S.a.r.l., Sysco EU IV Capital Unlimited Company, Sysco EU IV S. s.r.l.., Sysco EU V S. s.r.l., Sysco Eastern Maryland LLC, Sysco Eastern Wisconsin LLC, Sysco Foundation Inc., Sysco France Holding SAS, Sysco France SAS, Sysco George Town II LLC, Sysco George Town Limited S. s.r.l.., Sysco Global Finance LLC, Sysco Global Finance LLP, Sysco Global Holdings B.V., Sysco Global Resources LLC, Sysco Global Services LLC, Sysco Grand Cayman Company, Sysco Grand Cayman II Company, Sysco Grand Cayman III Company, Sysco Grand Rapids LLC, Sysco Guernsey Limited, Sysco Guest Supply Canada Inc., Sysco Guest Supply Europe Goods Wholesalers LLC, Sysco Guest Supply Europe Limited, Sysco Guest Supply LLC, Sysco Gulf Coast LLC, Sysco Hampton Roads Inc., Sysco Hawaii Inc., Sysco Holdings II LLC, Sysco Holdings LLC, Sysco Indianapolis LLC, Sysco International Food Group Inc., Sysco International Inc., Sysco Iowa Inc., Sysco Jackson LLC, Sysco Jacksonville Inc., Sysco Kansas City Inc., Sysco Knoxville LLC, Sysco Labs Europe Limited, Sysco Labs Pvt. Ltd., Sysco Leasing LLC, Sysco Lincoln Inc., Sysco Lincoln Transportation Company Inc., Sysco Long Island LLC, Sysco Los Angeles Inc., Sysco Louisville Inc., Sysco Memphis LLC, Sysco Merchandising and Supply Chain Services Canada Inc., Sysco Merchandising and Supply Chain Services Inc., Sysco Metro New York LLC, Sysco Minnesota Inc., Sysco Montana Inc., Sysco Nashville LLC, Sysco Netherlands Partners LLC, Sysco North Central Florida Inc., Sysco North Dakota Inc., Sysco Northern New England Inc., Sysco Philadelphia LLC, Sysco Pittsburgh LLC, Sysco Portland Inc., Sysco Raleigh LLC, Sysco Resources Services LLC, Sysco Riverside Inc., Sysco Sacramento Inc., Sysco San Diego Inc., Sysco San Francisco Inc., Sysco Seattle Inc., Sysco South Florida Inc., Sysco Southeast Florida LLC, Sysco Spain Holdings SLU, Sysco Spokane Inc., Sysco St. Louis LLC, Sysco Syracuse LLC, Sysco Technologies Cayman Ltd., Sysco Technologies LLC, Sysco UK Holdings Limited, Sysco UK Limited, Sysco UK Partners LLP, Sysco USA I Inc., Sysco USA II LLC, Sysco USA III LLC, Sysco Ventura Inc., Sysco Ventures Inc., Sysco Virginia LLC, Sysco West Coast Florida Inc., Sysco Western Minnesota Inc., The SYGMA Network Inc., Upsys, Victua SAS, Walker Foods Inc., Waugh Foods, and Wild Harvest Limited. In the midst of celebrating LGBTQ Pride the U.S. Supreme Court rained on our virtual parade by ruling in favor of the Catholic Social Serv... Nabors Industries Ltd. engages in the provision of platform work over and drilling rigs. It operates through the following segments: U.S. Drilling, Canada Drilling, International Drilling, Drilling Solutions, and Rig Technologies. The U.S. Drilling segment includes land drilling activities in the lower 48 states and Alaska, as well as offshore operations in the Gulf of Mexico. The Canada segment consists of land-based drilling rigs in Canada. The International segment focuses in maintaining a footprint in the oil and gas market, most notably in Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Argentina, Colombia, Kazakhstan, and Venezuela. The Drilling Solutions segment offers drilling technologies, such as patented steering systems and rig instrumentation software systems that enhance drilling performance and wellbore placement. The Rig Technologies segment comprises Canrig, which manufactures and sells top drives, catwalks, wrenches, drawworks, and drilling related equipment, such as robotic systems and downhole tools. The company was founded by Clair Nabors in 1952 and is headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda. Read More Duck Creek Technologies, Inc. provides software-as-a-service core systems to the property and casualty insurance industry in North America. It offers Duck Creek Policy, a full lifecycle solution for the development of products and quoting, binding, and servicing of policies across various channels from agents and brokers to end-users; Duck Creek Billing that provides payment and invoicing capabilities, such as billing and collections, commission processing, disbursement management, and general ledger capabilities for insurance lines and bill types; and Duck Creek Claims that supports the entire claims lifecycle from first notice of loss through investigation, payments, negotiations, reporting, and closure. The company also provides Duck Creek Rating that allows carriers to develop new rates and models and deliver accurate quotes in real-time based on the complex rating algorithms; Duck Creek Insights, an insurance analytics solution that allows carriers to gather and analyze data from internal and external sources and facilitate rapid analysis and reporting on a single system; Duck Creek Digital Engagement that offer digital interactions between property and casualty insurers and their agents, brokers, and policyholders; and Duck Creek Distribution Management that automates sales channel activities for agents and brokers, including producer onboarding, compliance, and compensation management. In addition, it offers Duck Creek Reinsurance Management that automates critical financial and administrative functions; and Duck Creek Industry Content that provides pre-built content, including base business rules, product designs, rating algorithms, data capture screens, and workflows for insurance lines of business. The company serves insurance carriers and leaders. Duck Creek Technologies, Inc. was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Sealed Air: A.P.S. (Holdings) Limited, AFP Trading (China) Co. Ltd., AFPTOH LTD, APS Automated Packaging Systems GmbH & Co. KG, APS Verwaltungs-GmbH, Air Ride Pallets Hong Kong Limited, Austin Foam Plastics Inc. (dba AFP Inc.), Automated Packaging Systems, Automated Packaging Systems Asia Holding Company Limited, Automated Packaging Systems Comerciale Importacao do Brasil Ltda., Automated Packaging Systems Europe, Automated Packaging Systems LLC, Automated Packaging Systems Limited, Automated Packaging Systems Southeast Asia Co. Ltd., B+ Equipment, B+ Equipment SAS, Beacon Holdings LLC, Biosphere Industries, BluPack (New Zealand), Blue Dot Packaging Pty Ltd., Cactus (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Cryovac (Malaysia) SDN. BHD, Cryovac Brasil Ltda., Cryovac Holdings II LLC, Cryovac International Holdings Inc., Cryovac LLC*, Cryovac Leasing Corporation, Cryovac Londrina Ltda., Cryovac Packaging Portugal Embalagens Ltda., Cryovac-Sealed Air de Costa Rica S.R.L., DELTAPLAM Embalagens Industria e Comercio, Diversey, Diversey J Trustee Limited, Diversey Trustee Limited, Entapack Pty. Ltd., Fagerdala (Chengdu) Packaging Co. Ltd, Fagerdala (Shanghai) Foams Co. Ltd., Fagerdala (Shanghai) Polymer Co. Ltd., Fagerdala (Suzhou) Packaging Co. Ltd., Fagerdala (Thailand) Limited, Fagerdala (Xiamen) Packaging Co. Ltd., Fagerdala Leamchabung Limited, Fagerdala Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Fagerdala Mexico S.A. de C.V., Fagerdala Mexico Supply Chain S.A. de C.V., Fagerdala Packaging Inc. (Indiana), Fagerdala Singapore Pte Ltd, Fagerdala Singapore Pte. Ltd., Getpacking.com GmbH, Invertol S. de R.L. de C.V., JSC Sealed Air Kaustik, KRIS Automated Packaging Systems Holding Company, Kevothermal LLC, Kevothermal Limited, Nelipak Holdings, Pack-Tiger GmbH, Polyrol Limited, Polyrol Packaging Systems LLC, ProAseptic Technologies S.L., Producembal- Producao de Embalagens LTDA, Reflectix Inc., SLD Air Packaging Paketleme Malzemeleri Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Saddle Brook Insurance Company, Sealed Air (Asia) Holdings BV, Sealed Air (Barbados) S.R.L., Sealed Air (Canada) Co./CIE, Sealed Air (Canada) Holdings B.V., Sealed Air (China) Co. Ltd., Sealed Air (China) Limited, Sealed Air (Israel) Ltd., Sealed Air (Korea) Limited, Sealed Air (Latin America) Holdings II LLC, Sealed Air (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Sealed Air (New Zealand), Sealed Air (Philippines) Inc., Sealed Air (Singapore) Pte. Limited, Sealed Air (Ukraine) Limited, Sealed Air Africa (Pty.) Limited, Sealed Air Americas Manufacturing S. de R.L. de C.V., Sealed Air Argentina S.A., Sealed Air Australia (Holdings) Pty. Limited, Sealed Air Australia Pty. Limited, Sealed Air Australia Real Estate Pty Ltd, Sealed Air B.V., Sealed Air Belgium N.V., Sealed Air Central America S.A., Sealed Air Chile SpA, Sealed Air Colombia Ltda., Sealed Air Corporation (US), Sealed Air Cyprus Ltd., Sealed Air Denmark A/S, Sealed Air Finance B.V., Sealed Air Finance II LLC, Sealed Air Finance Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Funding LLC, Sealed Air General Trading LLC, Sealed Air GmbH (Germany), Sealed Air GmbH (Switzerland), Sealed Air Hellas SA, Sealed Air Holding France SAS, Sealed Air Holdings (New Zealand) Pty. Ltd., Sealed Air Holdings South Africa Proprietary Limited, Sealed Air Holdings UK I Limited, Sealed Air Holdings UK Limited, Sealed Air Hong Kong Limited, Sealed Air Hungary Ltd., Sealed Air Investment and Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Sealed Air Japan G.K., Sealed Air LLC, Sealed Air Limited (Ireland), Sealed Air Limited (UK), Sealed Air Luxembourg (I) S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Luxembourg (II) S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Management Holding Verwaltungs GmbH, Sealed Air Multiflex GmbH, Sealed Air Netherlands (Holdings) I B.V., Sealed Air Netherlands (Holdings) II B.V., Sealed Air Netherlands Holdings V B.V., Sealed Air Norge AS, Sealed Air OY, Sealed Air Packaging (India) Private Limited, Sealed Air Packaging (Shanghai) Co. Limited, Sealed Air Packaging (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Sealed Air Packaging LLC, Sealed Air Packaging Materials (India) LLP, Sealed Air Packaging S.L.U., Sealed Air Peru S.A.C., Sealed Air Polska Sp. Zoo, Sealed Air Pty Limited, Sealed Air S.A S., Sealed Air S.r.l., Sealed Air South Africa (Pty.) Ltd., Sealed Air Svenska AB, Sealed Air Taiwan Limited, Sealed Air UK Limited Partnership, Sealed Air US Holdings (Thailand) LLC, Sealed Air Uruguay S.A., Sealed Air Verpackungen GmbH, Sealed Air de Mexico Operations S. de RL. de C.V., Sealed Air de Venezuela S.A., Sealed Air s.r.o., Shanklin Corp, Shanklin Corporation, TTS-Ciptec, TXAFP Asia Pacific Ltd., TXAFP GP LLC, and Trigon Industries. The following companies are subsidiares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.: 2235158 Alberta Limited, A.J. Amer Agency, AHC Digital LLC, AIX Limited, AJG Coal LLC, AJG Financial Services LLC, AJG Meadows LLC, AJG North America ULC, AJG RCF LLC, AJGRMS of Louisiana LLC, ARM RE Ltda., AVIATION INSURANCE SERVICES, AVRECO, Ace IRM Insurance Broking Group, Acumus Holdings Limited, Acumus Interco Limited, Acumus Ltd, Adams & Associates International, Adaptive Marketing LLC, Adco General Corporation, Advanced Benefit Advisors, Aequus Trade Credit, Affinity Marketing Group, Ahrold Fay Rosenberg, Aires Consulting Group, Alesco Risk Management Services Limited, Alize Limited, Allied Claims Administration Inc., Alternative Market Specialists, Altman & Cronin Benefit Consultants, American Freedom Carriers Inc., American Security Services Corp., American Wholesalers Underwriting Ltd, Andrew-Anthony Insurance Agency, Anthony Hodges Consulting Limited, Antrobus Investments Limited, AquaSurance, Argentis, Argentis Financial Group Limited, Argentis Financial Management Limited, Argus Benefits, Armstrong/Robitaille/Riegle, Artex (SAC) Limited, Artex Cedar Hill, Artex Corporate Services (Malta) Limited, Artex Corporate Services Limited, Artex Holdings (Gibraltar) Limited, Artex Holdings (Malta) Limited, Artex Insurance (Guernsey) PCC Limited, Artex Insurance (Tennessee) PCCIC Inc., Artex Insurance Brokers (Malta) PCC Limited, Artex Insurance ICC Limited, Artex Intermediaries Ltd, Artex Risk Solutions (Bermuda) Ltd, Artex Risk Solutions (Cayman) Limited, Artex Risk Solutions (Gibraltar) Limited, Artex Risk Solutions (Guernsey) Limited, Artex Risk Solutions (International) Ltd, Artex Risk Solutions (Malta) Limited, Artex Risk Solutions (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Artex Risk Solutions (UK) Limited, Artex Risk Solutions Inc., Arthur J Gallagher (Norway) Holdings AS, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (AUS) Ltd, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (Bermuda) Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (Illinois), Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Insurance Brokers of California Inc., Arthur J. Gallagher (Aus) Pty Ltd, Arthur J. Gallagher (Bermuda) Holding Partnership, Arthur J. Gallagher (Life Solutions) Ltd, Arthur J. Gallagher (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Arthur J. Gallagher (U.S.) LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher (UK) Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher Asesoria S.A.C., Arthur J. Gallagher Australasia Holdings Pty Ltd., Arthur J. Gallagher Brokerage & Risk Management Services LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Broking (NZ) Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher Financial Services Professionals Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Group Quebec ULC, Arthur J. Gallagher Holdings (UK) Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher Latin America LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Management (Bermuda) Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher Real Estate Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services (Hawaii) Inc., Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services Inc., Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services of Utah Inc., Arthur J. Gallagher School Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Service Company LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Services (UK) Ltd, Ashmore & Associates Insurance Agency, Atlantic Risk Management Corp., Atrex Insurance (Cayman) SPC Limited, Avantek Pty Ltd, Axe Insurance PCC Limited, BIS Insurance Services, Baker - Tillys employment benefits solutions, Ballard Benefit Works, Bankers Financial Benefits, Barmore Insurance Agency, Behnke & Co. Inc., Bellisle Pty Ltd, Belmont Associates Consultants, Belmont Insurance Holdings Limited, Belmont International, Belmont International Limited, Benefit Development Group, Benefit Management Group, BenefitLink Resource Group, Benefits Planning & Insurance Agency, Benefits Unlimited, Bennett & Shade Co., Bergvall Marine, Bergvall Marine A.S., Besselman & Little Agency, Big Savings Insurance Agency Inc., Blenheim Park Ltd, Blenheim Park Services Limited, Blue Holdings Pty Ltd, Blue Horizon Insurance Services, Blue Water Benefits, BluePeak Advisors, Blueleaf Consulting Pty Ltd., Bluewater Incorporated Cell Insurance Company, Bollinger Inc., Bollinger Insurance Services Inc., Bowen Miclette Britt & Merry of Arkansas Inc., Brendis & Brendis, Brim AB, Broker Benefit Services, Brokerage Professionals, Brown Hobbs & McMurray Insurance, Bultman/Bell Associates Inc., Burkwald & Associates, Burns-Fazzi Brock & Associates, Bushong Insurance Associates, C&B Consulting Group, CGM Gallagher Insruance Brokers (Trinidad & Tobago) Limited, CJM Solutions Inc., CMA Solutions LLC, Cairnstone Financial, California Insurance Center, Capital Bauer Insurance Agency, Capitol Benefits Group, Capsicum CRLA LLP, Capsicum Re Brasil Participacoes Ltda, Capsicum Re Latin America Corretora De Resseguros Ltda, Capsicum Reinsurance Brokers Bermuda Limited, Capsicum Reinsurance Brokers Miami Inc., Carefree Marketing Inc., Carpenter Cammack & Associates, Cashan & Co., Castle Insurance Associates, Centennial Insurance Agency, Charity First Insurance Services Inc., Charles Allen Agency, Charter Lakes Insurance Agency, Chris Schroeder Insurance, Christie-Phoenix, Cintran Claims Canada Limited, Classic Insurance Services, Cleaveland Insurance Group, Cohen & Lord Insurance Brokers, Cohn Financial Group, Coleman Group Holdings Limited, Coleman Holdings Limited, College and University Scholastic Excess Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Commercial Insurance Brokers, Complete Benefit Alliance, Complete Financial Balance, Complete Financial Balance Pty Ltd, Consolidated Casualty Specialties LLC, Construction Risk Solutions, Contego Underwriting Limited, Contego Underwriting Ltd, Continental Excess & Surplus, Convergence Risk Services Ltd, Copper Mountain Assurance Inc., Cornwall & Stevens Co., Corporate Benefit Advisors, Corporate Life Consultants, Countrywide Accident Assistance Limited, Coverdell & Company Inc., Coverdell Canada Corporation, Cowles and Connell, Craig M. Ferguson & Co., Crist Elliott Machette Insurance Services, Crombie Lockwood (NZ) Limited, Davis-Poston & Associates, Denman Consulting Services, Detlefs Johnson & Partners, DiBrina Group, Dickinson & Associates, Discount Development Services L.L.C., Discovery Benefit Solutions, Dodson-Bateman & Co., Donald P. Pipino Co. Ltd., E. S. Susanin Inc., EHE Holdings LLC, EHS Holdings Limited, Elantis Premium Funding (NZ) Limited, Elantis Premium Funding Limited, Elite Benefits Insurance Marketing Services, Employee Benefits Analysis Corp., Employee Benefits of The Carolinas, Encore Insurance & Bonding, Everett James, Evolution Risk Services Limited, Evolution Technology Services Limited, Evolution Underwriting Group, Evolution Underwriting Group Limited, Evolution Underwriting Limited, Excel Insurance Services, FYI Direct Canada Corporation, FYI Direct LLC, Farallone Pacific Insurance Services, Fenchurch Faris Limited, Fidelity Benefits & Insurance Services, Financial Profiles Inc., Finergy Solutions Pty Ltd, First Agency, First Iowa Insurance Agency, First Premium Inc., First Premium Insurance Group, Fish & Schulkamp, Fishermans Insurance Services, Foley Healthcare Limited, Fortress Financial Solutions Pty Ltd, Fortress Insurance LLC, Foundation Strategies, Fox Lawson & Associates, Franklin-Case Agency LLC, Fraser MacAndrew Ryan Limited, Friary Intermediate Limited, Fuller & O'Brien, G.S. Chapman & Associates Insurance Brokers, G.S. Levine Insurance Services, GBS (Australia) Holdings Pty Ltd, GBS Administrators Inc., GBS Insurance and Financial Services Inc., GBS Retirement Services Inc., GBS Specialty Markets LLC, GGB Finance 1 Limited, GGB Finance 2 Limited, GGB Finance 3 Limited, GGB Finance 4 Limited, GPL Assurance, GPL Assurance Inc., Gabor Insurance Services, Gale Smith & Co. Inc., Gallagher (Bermuda) Insurance Solutions Ltd., Gallagher - Grace/Mayer Insurance Agency, Gallagher Bassett Aires Inc., Gallagher Bassett Canada Inc., Gallagher Bassett Insurance Services Ltd., Gallagher Bassett International Ltd., Gallagher Bassett NZ Pty Ltd., Gallagher Bassett Services Inc. , Gallagher Bassett Services Pty Ltd., Gallagher Bassett Services Workers Compensation Victoria Pty Ltd., Gallagher Benefit Services (Canada) Group Inc., Gallagher Benefit Services (Holdings) Limited, Gallagher Benefit Services Inc., Gallagher Benefit Services Management Company Limited, Gallagher Benefit Services Pty Ltd, Gallagher Benefits Consulting Limited, Gallagher Bomford Couch Wilson, Gallagher Burgess, Gallagher Canada Acquisition Corporation, Gallagher Caribbean Group Limited, Gallagher Clean Energy LLC, Gallagher Communications Limited, Gallagher Community Clinic RPG LLC, Gallagher Consulting Ltda, Gallagher Corporate Services LLC, Gallagher Coyle, Gallagher CyberRisk, Gallagher Energy Risk Services Inc., Gallagher Fiduciary Advisors LLC, Gallagher Holdings (UK) Limited, Gallagher Holdings Bermuda Company Limited, Gallagher Holdings Four (UK) Limited, Gallagher Holdings Three (UK) Limited, Gallagher Insurance Brokers (Barbados) Limited, Gallagher Insurance Brokers (St. Kitts & Nevis) Limited, Gallagher Insurance Brokers (St. Lucia) Limited, Gallagher Insurance Brokers (St. Vincent) Limited, Gallagher Insurance Brokers Jamaica Limited, Gallagher International Cash Management s.r.l., Gallagher International Holdings (US) Inc., Gallagher Investment Advisors LLC, Gallagher Inwest Group, Gallagher Koster, Gallagher Lambert Group, Gallagher Madison Risk & Insurance Services, Gallagher Mauritius Holdings, Gallagher Mississippi Brokerage LLC, Gallagher RE Colombia Ltda Corredores de Reaseguros SA, Gallagher Risk & Reward Limited, Gallagher Risk Group LLC, Gallagher Risk Placements Pty Ltd, Gallagher SKS, Gallagher Service Center LLP, Gallagher-Tarantino, Galtney Group, Game Day Insurance Inc., Gardner & White Corp., Gardner Marine Agency, Garza Long Group, Gatehouse Consulting Limited, Gault Armstrong Kemble Pty Ltd, Gault Armstrong SARL, Giles Group, Giles Holdings Limited, Giles Insurance Brokers, Gillis Ellis & Baker Inc., Goodman Insurance Agency, Grandy Pratt Co., Greenseed Alternative Mangaers Platform Ltd, Grossman & Associates, Group Benefits of Arkansas, Group Insurance Associates, Gruppo Marcucci, HLG Holdings Limited, HMG-PCMS Limited, HPF Investments LLC, HR Owen Insurance Services Limited, Hagan Newkirk Financial Services, Hagedorn & Company, Hardman & Howell Benefits, Harlequin Insurance PCC Limited, Hartstein Associates Inc., Healthcare Professionals Purchasing Group LLC, Healthcare Risk Solutions, Heath Lambert Group Ltd., Heath Lambert Limited, Heath Lambert Overseas Limited, Heiser Insurance Agency, Henderson Phillips Fine Arts Insurance, Herbruck Alder & Co., Heritage Insurance Brokers (CI) Limited, Hesse & Partner AG, Hesse Consulting, Hexagon ICC Limited, Hexagon Insurance PCC Limited, Hill Chesson & Woody, Hogan Insurance Services, Home & Travel Limited, Honour Point Limited, Horseshoe Corporate Services Ltd, Horseshoe Fund Services (Cayman) Ltd, Horseshoe Fund Services Ltd, Horseshoe Fund Services USA Inc., Horseshoe ILS Services UK Ltd, Horseshoe Insurance Advisors US LLC, Horseshoe Insurance Advisory Ltd., Horseshoe Insurance Services Holdings Ltd, Horseshoe Insurance Services Holdings US Inc., Horseshoe Management (Gibraltar) Limited, Horseshoe Management (Ireland) Ltd, Horseshoe Management Ltd., Horseshoe PCC Limited, Horseshoe Re Limited, Horseshoe Services (Cayman) Ltd, Horseshoe Services (Pty) Ltd, Horton Insurance Agency, Housing Authorities Services Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Human Resource Management Systems, I-Protect Underwriting Pty Ltd, IBIS Advisors, IBS Reinsurance Singapore Pte Ltd, ILS Fund Services Ltd., ISG International, ITI Solutions, Igloo Insurance PCC Limited, Independent Benefit Services, Independent Fiduciary Services, Ink Underwriting Agencies Limited, InsSync Group Pty Ltd, Inspire Underwriting Limited, Instrat Insurance Brokers, Instrat Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd, Instrat Integration Holdco Pty Ltd, Insurance Acquisitions Holdings Limited, Insurance Associates Inc., Insurance Dialogue Limited, Insurance Dialogue Ltd., Insurance Plans Agency, Insurance Plus Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Insurance Point, Insurance Risk Managers of Missouri Inc., Insure My Villa Limited, Insure Pty Ltd, Integrated Healthcare Strategies, InterNational Insurance Group, InterPacific Underwriting Agencies, Intermountain Financial Benefits, Interstate Insurance Underwriters, JPGAC LLC, James F. Reda & Associates, James R. Weir Insurance Agency, Jenkins and Associates, Joe E. Martin Inc., John P. Woods Co. Inc., Jones Brown, Jones Brown Group Inc., Jones Brown Insurance Solutions Inc., Joseph Distel, Joseph James & Associates Insurance Agency, Just Landlords Insurance Services Ltd, KDC Associates, KRW Insurance Agency, Kahl Insurance Services, Kaler Carney Liffler & Co. Inc., Kane Group - Insurance Management Operations, Kelly Financial, Kent Kent & Tingle and RBS, Keyser Benefits Corp., Kingspark Enterprises Pty Ltd, L&R Benefits, LSG Insurance Partners, Learn About Money Limited, Lewis & Associates Insurance Brokers, Leystone Insurance & Financial, Life Plans Unlimited, Lincoln Financial Management, Longfellow Financial, Lucas Fettes Limited, Lucas Fettes and Partners Limited, Lutgert Insurance, MA Underwriting Pty Ltd, MDM Insurance Associates, MG Advanced Coal Technologies-1 LLC, MGA Insurance Services, MRS Holdings Ltd., Madison Scott & Associates, Managed Healthcare Solutions, Mannequin Insurance PCC Limited, Marchetti Robertson & Brickell Insurance, Marine Insurance Service, Martin Gordon & Jones Inc., McDowall Associates Human Resource Consultants, McIntyre Risk Management, McLean Insurance Agency, McNeary, McPherson Benefits Group, McRory & Co., Mecacem Insurance SPC Ltd, MedInsights Inc., Melton Insurance Associates, Memberworks Canada LLC, Merit Insurance, Metcom Excess, Metzler Bros. Insurance, Meyers-Reynolds & Associates, Mid America Group, Midwest Surety Services, Mike Henry Insurance Brokers, Mike Henry Insurance Brokers Limited, Mike Henry Insurance Funding Limited, Miller Buettner & Parrott, Miller-Harrison Insurance Services, Milne Alexander Pty Ltd, Minvielle & Chastanet Insurance Brokers, Monument Insurance (NZ) Limited, Monument Llc, Monument Premium Funding Limited, Mortgage Insurance Agency, Murphy Consultants, Mutual Insurance Services, NationAir Aviation Insurance, National Administration Co., National Ethics Association, National Transportation Adjusters, Nelson/Monarch Insurance Services, Nicoud Insurance Services, NiiS/Apex Group Holdings, Nonprofit Insurance Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Noraxis Capital Corp, Nordic Forsakring & Riskhantering AB, North Alabama Insurance, Nourse Insurance Brokers, O'Gorman & Young, OAMPS (UK) Limited, OAMPS Gault Armstrong Pty Ltd, OAMPS Limited, OAMPS Special Risks Ltd, Offshore Market Placements Limited, Optimum Talent, Orb Financial Services, Orb Financial Services Limited, Osprey Insurance Brokers Limited, Oval Group, Oval Healthcare Limited, Oval Insurance Broking Limited, Oval Limited, Oval Management Services Limited, Oxygen Insurance Managers, P2 Group, PEN Insurance Management Advisors Ltd, PT IBS Insurance Broking Service, Pacific Insurance Agency, Palmer Atlantic Insurance, Palmer Atlantic Insurance Ltd, Palmer Atlantic Risk Services Ltd., Park Row Associates, Parkstar Enterprises Pty Ltd, Parmia Pty Ltd, PartnerSource, Pastel Holding (NZ) Company, Pastel Holdings Pty Limited, Pastel Purchaser (NZ) Limited, Pastel Purchaser Pty Limited, Pavey Group Holdings (UK) Limited, Pavey Group Holdings Limited, Pavey Group Limited, Pearson Dunn Insurance Inc., Pen Underwriting Canada Limited, Pen Underwriting Group Pty. Ltd., Pen Underwriting Limited, Pen Underwriting Pty Ltd, Persing Dyckman & Toynbee Inc., Personal Advice Services Pty Ltd, Petty Burton Associates, Pointer Insurance Agency, Portmore Insurance Brokers (Wilshire) Limited, Portmore Insurance Brokers Limited, Potter-Holden & Co., Powell Insurance Agency, Premier Insurance Services Inc., Premier Risk Services, Premium Finance Corporation, Preston-Patterson, ProSource Financial, Professional Agents Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Professional Claims Managers, Proinova AB, Proinova Agency AB, Pronto California Agency LLC, Pronto California General Agency LLC, Pronto Florida Claims LLC, Pronto Florida General Agency LLC, Pronto Franchise LLC, Pronto General Agency Ltd, Pronto General Agency Management LLC, Pronto Holdco Inc., Pronto Holding California LLC, Pronto Holding Florida LLC, Pronto Insurance Agency of Laredo Inc., Pronto Premium Finance LLC, Property & Commercial Ltd., Property Insurance Initatives Limited, Property and Commercial Limited, Protected Insurance Company, Protection Plan Association Inc., Protek Group Limited, Providium Consulting Group, Ptarmigan Underwriting Agency Limited, Ptarmigan Underwriting UK Limited, Purple Bridge Claims Management Limited, Purple Bridge Finance Limited, Purple Bridge Group Limited, Purple Bridge Investments Limited, Purple Bridge Online Services Limited, Purple Bridge Publishing Limited, Quantum Underwriting Solutions Limited, Quillco 226 Limited, Quillco 227 Limited, R. L. Youngdahl & Associates, R.G. Speno Inc., R.W. Scobie, RA Rossborough (Guernsey) Ltd., RA Rossborough (Insurance Brokers) Ltd, REGENCY Group inc., RGA Referencing Limited, RGA Underwriting Limited, RIL Administrators (Guernsey) Ltd., RJ Dutton Inc., RSM Insurance Services Limited, Reassurance Holdings Inc., Rebholz Insurance Agency, Reid Manson Ltd., Reimbursement Services, Rentguard Limited, Reward Management Limited, Reynolds & Rodar Insurance Group, Riley & Associates, Rio 587 Limited, Rio 588 Limited, Risk & Reward Group, Risk Management Partners Limited, Risk Placement Services Inc., Risk Planners, Risk Services (NW) Limited, Risk Services (NW) Ltd., Risk Solutions Group Limited, Robert A. Schneider Agency, Robert Keith & Associates, Roberts & Roberts Insurance Service, Robinson-Adams Insurance, Rossborough Healthcare International Ltd, Rossborough Insurance (IOM) Ltd., Rossborough Insurance Services Ltd. (Jersey), S. A. Freerks & Associates, SEG Insurance Ltd, SGB-NIA Insurance Brokers, SHILLING Ltd, SKANCO International, SMERI AB, SRS Underwriting Pty Ltd, Secure Enterprises Pty Ltd, Securitas Re, Sellers Group, Sentinel Indemnity LLC, Septagon Insurance PCC Limited, Shuford Insurance Agency, Sigma II Insurance Agency, Sinclair Billard and Weld Limited, Sobieski & Bradley, Solid Benefit Guidance, Spanjers Insurance Agency, Spataro Insurance Agency, Specialised Broking Associates, Specialty Risk, Stackhouse Poland, Stackhouse Poland Bidco Limited, Stackhouse Poland Group Limited, Stackhouse Poland Holdings Limited, Stackhouse Poland Midco Limited, Stackouse Poland Limited, Stanton Group, Stark Johnson & Stinson Inc., Steel Agency, Strata Solicitors Ltd, Strategic Health Plans Corp., Strathearn Insurance Brokers, Strathearn Insurance Brokers (Qld) Trading Trust, Strathern Insurance Group Pty Ltd, Strathern Integration Holdco Pty Ltd, Strathern Unit Trust, Strong Financial Resources, Summit Insurance Group, Sunday and Associates, Sunderland Insurance Services, Super Advice Corporate Services Pty Ltd, Taylor Benefits, Texas Insurance Agency, Texas Insurance Managers, The BeneTex Group, The Buchholz Planning, The Chapman Group, The Commonwealth Consulting Group, The Daniels Group Inc., The EHE Group LLC, The EHE Insurance Agency LLC, The Eagle Insurance Agency LLC, The Eriksen Group, The Forker Company, The Gleason Agency, The Great Lakes Agency, The HR Group, The Hawk Agency, The Human Capital Group, The Lance Group, The Levitt/Kristan Co., The MW Bagnall Company, The Old Greenwich Consulting Group, The Parks Johnson Agency, The Plus Companies Inc., The Presidio Group, The Producers Choice, The Rains Group, The Splinter Group, The Titan Group, The Treiber Group, The Woodsmall Companies Inc., Title & Covenant Brokers Ltd., Title Investments Limited, Tom Sherwin Insurance Agency, Total Reward Group, Total Rewards Group (Holdings) Limited, Towle Agency, Transwestern, Tri-State General Insurance Agency, Triad Insurance Agency, Triad USA, Tribeca Strategic Advisors, Trinder & Norwood, Trip Mate, Trissel Graham & Toole, Tropp & Co., Tudor Risk Services, Tyloma Holdings Limited, Uni-Care Inc., Unison Inc., Universico Group, Unoccupied Direct Limited, V2V Holdings LLC, VEBA Service Group, Vasek Insurance Services Limited, Velo ACU LLC, Velo Holdings Inc., Verbag AG., Vertrue LLC, Victory Insurance Agency, Vincent L. Braband Insurance, Vital Benefits, Voluntary Benefits Solutions, W. E. Kingsley Co. Inc., WM. W. George & Associates, Walker Taylor Agency, Welling Associates, Wesfarmers Insurance - Insurance Brokerage Operations, Western Benefit Solutions, White & Company Insurance, Whitehaven Insurance Group, William Gallagher Associates Insurance Brokers, William H. Connolly & Co., Williams Insurance Agency Inc., Williams-Manny Insurance Group, Winn & Company Insurance Brokers, Wischmeyer Benefit Partners, Woodbrook Underwriting Agencies, Woods & Grooms, WorkCare Northwest, Worksite Communications, Y. S. Liedman & Associates, YOA Capsicum Reinsurance Broker Limited, Zenor Limited, Zuber Insurance Agency, and e3 Financial. Royal Dutch Shell plc operates as an energy and petrochemical company worldwide. The company operates through Integrated Gas, Upstream, Oil Products, Chemicals segments. It explores for and extracts crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids; markets and transports oil and gas; produces gas-to-liquids fuels and other products; and operates upstream and midstream infrastructure necessary to deliver gas to market. The company also markets and trades natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), crude oil, electricity, carbon-emission rights; and markets and sells LNG as a fuel for heavy-duty vehicles and marine vessels. In addition, it trades in and refines crude oil and other feed stocks, such as gasoline, diesel, heating oil, aviation fuel, marine fuel, biofuel, lubricants, bitumen, and sulphur; produces and sells petrochemicals for industrial use; and manages oil sands activities. Further, the company produces base chemicals comprising ethylene, propylene, and aromatics, as well as intermediate chemicals, such as styrene monomer, propylene oxide, solvents, detergent alcohols, ethylene oxide, and ethylene glycol. Royal Dutch Shell plc was founded in 1907 and is headquartered in The Hague, the Netherlands. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Tenet Healthcare: 1 Subsidiaries of this entity in which Tenet Healthcare Corporation directly and indirectly held a 95% ownership interest at December 31 2020 are set forth in the table below., 25 East Same Day Surgery L.L.C., 300 PBL Development LLC, 45th Street MOB LLC, 601 N 30th Street I L.L.C., 601 N 30th Street II L.L.C., 601 N 30th Street III Inc., AHM Acquisition Co. Inc., AIG Holdings LLC, AIGB Global LLC, AIGB Group Inc., AIGB Holdings Inc., AIGB Management Services LLC, AMC/North Fulton Urgent Care #1 L.L.C., AMC/North Fulton Urgent Care #2 L.L.C., AMC/North Fulton Urgent Care #3 L.L.C., AMC/North Fulton Urgent Care #4 L.L.C., AMC/North Fulton Urgent Care #5 L.L.C., AMI Information Systems Group Inc., AMI/HTI Tarzana Encino Joint Venture, APN, ARC Worcester Center L.P., ASC Old Co. LP, ASC of New Jersey LLC, ASJH Joint Venture LLC, Abrazo Health Network EP Clinical Services LLC, Abrazo Surgical Outpatient Center LLC, Advanced Ambulatory Surgical Care L.P., Advanced Center for Surgery Vero Beach LLC, Advanced Regional Surgery Center LLC, Advanced Surgery Center of Metairie LLC, Advanced Surgery Center of Sarasota LLC, Advanced Surgery Center of Tampa LLC, Advanced Surgical Care of St Louis LLC, Advanced Surgical Concepts LLC, Advantage Health Care Management Company LLC, Advantage Health Network Inc., AdventHealth Surgery Center Celebration LLC, AdventHealth Surgery Center Mills Park LLC, AdventHealth Surgery Center Wellswood LLC, AdventHealth Surgery Center Winter Garden LLC, AdventHealth Surgery Centers Central Florida LLC, AdventHealth Surgery Centers West Florida LLC, Adventist Midwest Health/USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., Alabama Cardiovascular Associates L.L.C., Alabama Digestive Health Endoscopy Center L.L.C., Alabama Hand and Sports Medicine L.L.C., Alamo Heights Surgicare L.P., All Star MOB LLC, Allegian Insurance Company, Alliance Surgery Birmingham LLC, Alliance Surgery Inc., Alvarado Hospital Medical Center Inc., Ambulatory Surgical Associates LLC, Ambulatory Surgical Center of Somerville LLC, American Institute of Gastric Banding Ltd., American Institute of Gastric Banding Phoenix Limited Partnership, American Medical (Central) Inc., Amisub (Heights) Inc., Amisub (Hilton Head) Inc., Amisub (North Ridge Hospital) Inc., Amisub (SFH) Inc., Amisub (Twelve Oaks) Inc., Amisub of California Inc., Amisub of North Carolina Inc., Amisub of South Carolina Inc., Amisub of Texas Inc., Anaheim Hills Medical Imaging L.L.C., Anaheim MRI Holding Inc., Anesthesia Partners of Gallatin LLC, Arizona Care Network Next L.L.C., Arizona Health Partners LLC, Arlington Orthopedic and Spine Hospital LLC, Arrowhead Endoscopy and Pain Management Center LLC, Asia Outsourcing US Inc., Aspen Healthcare, Atlanta Medical Center Inc., Atlanta Medical Center Interventional Neurology Associates L.L.C., Atlanta Medical Center Neurosurgical & Spine Specialists L.L.C., Atlanta Medical Center Physician Group L.L.C., Atlantic Coast Surgical Suites LLC, Atlantic Health-USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., Avita/USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., BBH BMC LLC, BBH CBMC LLC, BBH DevelopmentCo LLC, BBH Imaging Jasper LLC, BBH NP Clinicians Inc., BBH PBMC LLC, BBH SBMC LLC, BBH WBMC LLC, BCDC EmployeeCO LLC, BHC-Talladega Pediatrics LLC, BHS Accountable Care LLC, BHS Affinity LLC, BHS Integrated Physician Partners LLC, BHS Physician Performance Network LLC, BHS Physicians Alliance for ACE LLC, BHS Physicians Network Inc., BHS Specialty Network Inc., BT East Dallas JV LLP, BW Cardiology LLC, BW Cyberknife LLC, BW Hand Practice LLC, BW Office Buildings LLC, BW Parking Decks LLC, BW Physician Practices LLC, BW Retail Pharmacy LLC, BW Sports Practice LLC, Bagley Holdings LLC, Baptist Accountable Care LLC, Baptist Diagnostics LLC, Baptist Health Centers LLC, Baptist Physician Alliance ACO LLC, Baptist Physician Alliance LLC, Baptist Plaza Surgicare L.P., Baptist Surgery Center L.P., Baptist Womens Health Center LLC, Baptist/USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., Bartlett ASC LLC, Baylor Surgicare at Baylor Plano LLC, Baylor Surgicare at Blue Star LLC, Baylor Surgicare at Granbury LLC, Baylor Surgicare at Mansfield LLC, Baylor Surgicare at North Dallas LLC, Baylor Surgicare at Plano LLC, Baylor Surgicare at Plano Parkway LLC, Bear Creek Surgery Center LLC, Beaumont Surgical Affiliates Ltd., Bellaire Outpatient Surgery Center L.L.P., Berkshire Eye LLC, Bloomington ASC LLC, Blue Ridge/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Bluffton Okatie Primary Care L.L.C., Bluffton Okatie Surgery Center L.L.C., Bon Secours Surgery Center at Harbour View LLC, Bon Secours Surgery Center at Virginia Beach LLC, Bozeman Health/USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., Bozeman MOB LLC, Briarcliff Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Bristol Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Broad River Primary Care L.L.C., Brookwood - Maternal Fetal Medicine L.L.C., Brookwood Ancillary Holdings Inc., Brookwood Baptist Health 1 LLC, Brookwood Baptist Health 2 LLC, Brookwood Baptist Health 3 LLC, Brookwood Baptist Imaging LLC, Brookwood Center Development Corporation, Brookwood Development Inc., Brookwood Diagnostic Imaging Center LLC, Brookwood Garages L.L.C., Brookwood Health Services Inc., Brookwood Home Health LLC, Brookwood Occupational Health Clinic L.L.C., Brookwood Parking Associates Ltd., Brookwood Primary Care - Homewood L.L.C., Brookwood Primary Care - Inverness L.L.C., Brookwood Primary Care - Mountain Brook L.L.C., Brookwood Primary Care - Oak Mountain L.L.C., Brookwood Primary Care - Vestavia L.L.C., Brookwood Primary Care Cahaba Heights L.L.C., Brookwood Primary Care Hoover L.L.C., Brookwood Primary Care The Narrows L.L.C., Brookwood Primary Network Care Inc., Brookwood Specialty Care - Endocrinology L.L.C., Brookwood Sports and Orthopedics L.L.C., Brookwood Womens Care L.L.C., Brookwood Womens Diagnostic Center LLC, C7 Technologies LLC, CGH Hospital Ltd., CHIC/USP Surgery Centers LLC, CHN Holdings LLC, CHRISTUS Cabrini Surgery Center L.L.C., CHVI Tucson Holdings LLC, CML-Chicago Market Labs Inc., CRNAs of Michigan, CS/USP General Partner LLC, CS/USP Surgery Centers LP, California Joint & Spine LLC, Camp Creek Urgent Care L.L.C., Camp Lowell Surgery Center L.L.C., Captive Insurance Services Inc., Cardiology Physicians Associates L.L.C., Cardiology Physicians Corporation L.L.C., Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Associates L.L.C., Cardiovascular Clinical Excellence at Sierra Providence LLC, CareSpot of Austin LLC, CareSpot of Memphis LLC, CareSpot of Orlando/HSI Urgent Care LLC, Carmel Specialty Surgery Center LLC, Carondelet St. Marys-Northwest L.L.C., Cascade Spine Center LLC, Castle Rock Surgery Center LLC, Catawba-Piedmont Cardiothoracic Surgery L.L.C., Cedar Hill Primary Care L.L.C., Cedar Park Surgery Center L.L.P., Centennial ASC LLC, Center for Advanced Research Excellence L.L.C., Center for the Urban Child Inc., Central California Healthcare Holdings LLC, Central Carolina Physicians - Sandhills L.L.C., Central Carolina-IMA L.L.C., Central Jersey Surgery Center LLC, Central Texas Corridor Hospital Company LLC, Central Valley Quality Alliance LLC, Central Virginia Surgi-Center L.P., Centura Ventures Surgery Centers LLC, Centura/USP Colorado Springs Surgery Centers L.L.C., Chalon Living Inc., Chandler Endoscopy Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Charlotte Endoscopic Surgery Center LLC, Chattanooga Pain Management Center LLC, Chesterfield Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Chesterfield Anesthesia Associates of Missouri LLC, Chico Surgery Center L.P., Childrens Hospital of Michigan Premier Network Inc., Citrus Heights ASC RE LLC, Clarkston ASC Partners LLC, Clarksville Surgery Center LLC, Coast Healthcare Management LLC, Coast Surgery Center L.P., Coastal Carolina Medical Center, Coastal Carolina Medical Center Inc., Coastal Carolina Physician Practices LLC, Coastal Carolina Pro Fee Billing L.L.C., Coastal Endo LLC, Colorado GI Centers LLC, Commonwealth Continental Health Care Inc., Community Connection Health Plan Inc., Community Hospital LLC, Community Hospital of Los Gatos Inc., Conifer Care Continuum Solutions LLC, Conifer Ethics and Compliance Inc., Conifer Global Business Center Inc., Conifer Global Holdings Inc., Conifer Health Solutions LLC, Conifer Holdings Inc., Conifer Patient Communications LLC, Conifer Physician Services Holdings Inc., Conifer Physician Services Inc., Conifer Revenue Cycle Solutions LLC, Conifer Value-Based Care LLC, Conroe Surgery Center 2 LLC, Coral Gables Hospital Inc., Coral Ridge Outpatient Center LLC, Corpus Christi Surgicare Ltd., Covenant/USP Surgery Centers LLC, CreAtiv Management Company Inc., Creekwood Investors LLC, Creekwood Surgery Center L.P., Crown Point Surgery Center LLC, DH/USP SJOSC Investment Company L.L.C., DH/USP Sacramento Pain GP LLC, DMC Detroit Receiving Hospital Premier Clinical Co-Management Services LLC, DMC Education & Research, DMC Harper University Hospital Premier Clinical Co-Management Services LLC, DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital Premier Clinical Management Services LLC, DMC Imaging L.L.C., Dallas Surgical Partners LLC, DeTar/USP Surgery Center LLC, Delray Beach ASC LLC, Delray Medical Center Inc., Delray Medical Physician Services L.L.C., Denton Surgicare Partners Ltd., Denton Surgicare Real Estate Ltd., Denville Surgery Center LLC, Des Peres Physician Network LLC, Desert Cove MOB LLC, Desert Regional Medical Center Inc., Desert Ridge Outpatient Surgery LLC, Desoto Surgicare Partners Ltd., Destin ASC RE LLC, Destin Surgery Center LLC, Detroit Education & Research, DigitalMed Inc., Dignity/Abrazo Health Network LLC, Dignity/USP Folsom GP LLC, Dignity/USP Grass Valley GP LLC, Dignity/USP Las Vegas Surgery Centers LLC, Dignity/USP Metro Surgery Center LLC, Dignity/USP NorCal Surgery Centers LLC, Dignity/USP Phoenix Surgery Centers II LLC, Dignity/USP Phoenix Surgery Centers LLC, Dignity/USP Redding GP LLC, Dignity/USP Roseville GP LLC, Dignity/USP/John Muir East Bay Surgery Centers LLC, Doctors Hospital of Manteca Inc., Doctors Medical Center Neurosciences Clinical Co-Management LLC, Doctors Medical Center Orthopedics Clinical Co-Management LLC, Doctors Medical Center of Modesto Inc., Doctors Outpatient Center for Surgery LLC, Doctors Outpatient Surgery Center of Jupiter L.L.C., EPHC Inc., EPIC ASC LLC, East Atlanta Endoscopy Centers LLC, East Cobb Urgent Care LLC, East Cooper Coastal Family Physicians L.L.C., East Cooper Community Hospital Inc., East Cooper Hyperbarics L.L.C., East Cooper OB/GYN L.L.C., East Cooper Physician Network LLC, East Cooper Primary Care Physicians L.L.C., East Portland Surgery Center LLC, East West Surgery Center L.P., Eastgate Building Center L.L.C., Effingham Surgical Partners LLC, Einstein Montgomery Surgery Center LLC, Einstein/USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., El Mirador Surgery Center L.L.C., El Paso Center for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy LLC, El Paso Day Surgery LLC, El Paso Urology Surgery Center Curie LLC, Emanate/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Emanuel Medical Center, Emerson Surgery Center LLC, Encinitas Endoscopy Center LLC, Endoscopy Center of Hackensack LLC, Endoscopy Center of South Sacramento LLC, Endoscopy Consultants LLC, European Surgical Partners Ltd., Eye Center of Nashville UAP LLC, Eye Surgery Center of Nashville LLC, FMC Medical Inc., FMCC Network Contracting L.L.C., FPN Frisco Physicians Network, FREH Real Estate L.L.C., FRS Imaging Services L.L.C., FSC Hospital LLC, FSH IT Services LP, First Choice Physician Partners, Flatirons Surgery Center LLC, Folsom Outpatient Surgery Center L.P., Fort Bend Clinical Services Inc., Fort Worth Hospital Real Estate LP, Fort Worth Surgicare Partners Ltd., Foundation Bariatric Hospital of San Antonio LLC, Foundation San Antonio Borrower Sub LLC, Fountain Valley Regional Hospital and Medical Center, Fountain Valley Surgery Center LLC, Franklin Endo UAP LLC, Franklin Endoscopy Center LLC, Fresno Surgery Center L.P., Frisco Medical Center L.L.P., Frontenac Ambulatory Surgery & Spine Care Center L.P., Frye Regional Medical Center Inc., FryeCare Boone L.L.C., FryeCare Morganton L.L.C., FryeCare Physicians L.L.C., FryeCare Valdese L.L.C., FryeCare Watauga L.L.C., FryeCare Womens Services L.L.C., GCSA Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Gamma Surgery Center LLC, Gardendale Surgical Associates LLC, Garland Surgicare Partners Ltd., Gastric Health Institute L.L.C., Genesis ASC Partners LLC, Geneva Surgical Suites LLC, Georgia Endoscopy Center LLC, Georgia Gifts From Grace L.L.C., Georgia Musculoskeletal Network Inc., Georgia North Fulton Healthcare Associates L.L.C., Georgia Northside Ear Nose and Throat L.L.C., Georgia Physicians of Cardiology L.L.C., Georgia Spectrum Neurosurgical Specialists L.L.C., Georgia Spine Surgery Center LLC, Glen Echo Surgery Center LLC, Golden Ridge ASC LLC, Good Samaritan Medical Center Inc., Good Samaritan Surgery L.L.C., Grapevine Surgicare Partners Ltd., Grass Valley Outpatient Surgery Center L.P., Graystone Family Healthcare - Tenet North Carolina L.L.C., Great Lakes Surgical Suites LLC, Greater Dallas Healthcare Enterprises, Greater Northwest Houston Enterprises, Greenville Physicians Surgery Center LLP, Greenwood ASC LLC, Greystone Internal Medicine - Brookwood L.L.C., Gulf Coast Community Hospital Inc., HCH Tucson Holdings LLC, HCN Emerus Management Sub LLC, HCN Emerus Texas LLC, HCN Laboratories Inc., HCN Physicians Inc., HCN Sunnyvale Holdings LLC, HCN Surgery Center Holdings Inc., HDMC Holdings L.L.C., HMA/Solantic Joint Venture LLC, HMH-USP Surgery Centers LLC, HMHP/USP Surgery Centers LLC, HNMC Inc., HNW GP Inc., HNW LP Inc., HPI Holdings LLC, HPI North LLC, HPI Physicians LLC, HSRM International Inc., HSS Palm Beach Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, HSS/USP Surgery Center LLC, HUG Services Inc., HUMC/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Hacienda Outpatient Surgery Center LLC, Hagerstown Surgery Center LLC, Hardeeville Medical Group L.L.C., Hardeeville Primary Care L.L.C., Harlingen Physician Network Inc., Harper-Hutzel AHP Services Inc., Harvard Park Surgery Center LLC, Haymarket Surgery Center LLC, Hazelwood Endoscopy Center LLC, Health & Wellness Surgery Center L.P., Health Horizons of Kansas City Inc., Health Horizons of Murfreesboro Inc., Health Horizons/Piedmont Joint Venture LLC, Health Services CFMC Inc., Health Services HNMC Inc., Health Services Network Care Inc., Health Services Network Hospitals Inc., Health Services Network Texas Inc., HealthCorp Network Inc., Healthcare Compliance LLC, Healthcare Network Alabama Inc., Healthcare Network CFMC Inc., Healthcare Network DPH Inc., Healthcare Network Georgia Inc., Healthcare Network Holdings Inc., Healthcare Network Hospitals (Dallas) Inc., Healthcare Network Hospitals Inc., Healthcare Network Louisiana Inc., Healthcare Network Missouri Inc., Healthcare Network North Carolina Inc., Healthcare Network South Carolina Inc., Healthcare Network Tennessee Inc., Healthcare Network Texas Inc., Healthcare Partners Investments LLC, Healthmark Partners Inc., Healthpoint of North Carolina L.L.C., Heart and Vascular Institute of Michigan, Heritage Park Surgical Hospital LLC, Hershey Outpatient Surgery Center L.P., Hialeah Hospital Inc., Hialeah Real Properties Inc., Hickory Family Practice Associates - Tenet North Carolina L.L.C., Hill Country ASC Partners LLC, Hill Country Surgery Center LLC, Hilton Head Health System L.P., Hilton Head Regional Healthcare L.L.C., Hilton Head Regional OB/GYN Partners L.L.C., Hilton Head Regional Physician Network LLC, Hilton Head Regional Physician Network Georgia L.L.C., Hinsdale Surgical Center LLC, Hitchcock State Street Real Estate Inc., Holston Valley Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Holy Cross Hospital Inc., Home Health Partners of San Antonio LLC, Hoover Doctors Group Inc., Hoover Land LLC, Horizon Ridge Surgery Center LLC, Hospital Development of West Phoenix Inc., Hospital RCM Services LLC, Hospital Underwriting Group Inc., Houston Northwest Partners Ltd., Houston PSC L.P., Houston Specialty Hospital Inc., Houston Sunrise Investors Inc., Hyde Park Surgery Center LLC, ICNU Rockford LLC, Imaging Center at Baxter Village L.L.C., InforMed Insurance Services LLC, Integris/USP Health Ventures LLC, International Health and Wellness Inc., Irving-Coppell Surgical Hospital L.L.P., JFK Memorial Hospital Inc., JFP UAP Sugarland LLC, Jackson Surgical Center LLC, Jacksonville Endoscopy Centers LLC, Journey Home Healthcare of San Antonio LLC, KHS Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, KHS/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Kingsport Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Laguna Medical Systems Inc., Lake Endoscopy Center LLC, Lake Health Care Facilities Inc., Lake Lansing ASC Partners LLC, Lake Surgical Hospital Slidell LLC, LakeFront Medical Associates LLC, Lakewood Regional Medical Center Inc., Lakewood Surgery Center LLC, Lancaster Specialty Surgery Center LLC, Lansing ASC Partners LLC, Lawrenceville Surgery Center L.L.C., Lebanon Endoscopy Center LLC, Legacy Warren Partners L.P., Legacy/USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., Leonardtown Surgery Center LLC, Liberty Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Lifemark Hospitals Inc., Lifemark Hospitals of Florida Inc., Lifemark Hospitals of Louisiana Inc., Lone Star Endoscopy Center LLC, Longleaf Surgery Center LLC, Los Alamitos Medical Center Inc., Lubbock ASC Holding Co LLC, MASC Partners LLC, MCSH Real Estate Investors Ltd., MH Memorial City Surgery LLC, MH/USP Bay Area LLC, MH/USP Brazoria LLC, MH/USP Kingsland LLC, MH/USP Kingwood LLC, MH/USP Kirby LLC, MH/USP Main Street LLC, MH/USP North Freeway LLC, MH/USP North Houston LLC, MH/USP Richmond LLC, MH/USP Sugar Land LLC, MH/USP TMC Endoscopy LLC, MH/USP West Houston L.L.C., MH/USP Woodlands Parkway LLC, MSH Partners LLC, MSV Health/USP Surgery Centers LLC, MVH/USP Surgery Centers LLC, MacNeal Management Services Inc., MacNeal Medical Records Inc., MacNeal Physicians Group LLC, Magnetic Resonance Imaging of San Luis Obispo Inc., Magnolia Surgery Center Limited Partnership, Manchester Ambulatory Surgery Center LP, Maple Lawn Surgery Center LLC, Marion Surgery Center LLC, Mary Immaculate Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Mason Ridge Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Mayfield Spine Surgery Center LLC, McLaren ASC of Flint LLC, Meadowcrest Hospital LLC, Medical House Staffing LLC, Medical Park Tower Surgery Center LLC, Medplex Outpatient Medical Centers Inc., Medplex Outpatient Surgery Center Ltd., Memorial Hermann Bay Area Endoscopy Center LLC, Memorial Hermann Endoscopy & Surgery Center North Houston L.L.C., Memorial Hermann Endoscopy Center North Freeway LLC, Memorial Hermann Specialty Hospital Kingwood L.L.C., Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Surgical Hospital L.L.P., Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Brazoria LLC, Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Cypress LLC, Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Katy LLP, Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Kingsland L.L.C., Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Kirby LLC, Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Main Street LLC, Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Memorial City L.L.C., Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Northwest LLP, Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Pinecroft LLC, Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Preston Road Ltd., Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Richmond LLC, Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Southwest L.L.P., Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Sugar Land LLP, Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Texas Medical Center LLP, Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Woodlands Parkway LLC, Memorial Hermann Surgery Center The Woodlands LLP, Memorial Hermann Texas International Endoscopy Center LLC, Memorial Hermann West Houston Surgery Center LLC, Memorial Hermann/USP Surgery Centers II L.P., Memorial Hermann/USP Surgery Centers III LLP, Memorial Hermann/USP Surgery Centers IV LLP, Memorial Surgery Center LLC, Memphis Urgent Care #1 L.L.C., Memphis Urgent Care #2 L.L.C., Merced Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Mercy/USP Health Ventures L.L.C., Metro Specialty Surgery Center LLC, Metro Surgery Center LLC, MetroWest HomeCare & Hospice LLC, Metrocrest Surgery Center L.P., Metropolitan New Jersey LLC, Michigan ASC Partners L.L.C., Michigan Pioneer ACO LLC, Michigan Regional Imaging LLC, Mid Rivers Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Mid State Endo UAP LLC, Mid-State Endoscopy Center LLC, Mid-TSC Development LP, Middle Tennessee Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Midland Memorial/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Midland Texas Surgical Center LLC, Midwest Digestive Health Center LLC, Midwest Pharmacies Inc., Midwest Specialty Surgery Center LLC, Millennium Surgical Center LLC, Mobile Imaging Management LLC, Mobile Technology Management LLC, Modesto Radiology Imaging Inc., Monocacy Surgery Center LLC, Mountain Empire Surgery Center L.P., Munster Specialty Surgery Center LLC, Murdock Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, NHSC Holdings LLC, NICH GP Holdings LLC, NKCH/USP Briarcliff GP LLC, NKCH/USP Liberty GP LLC, NKCH/USP Surgery Centers II L.L.C., NKCH/USP Surgery Centers LLC, NMC Lessor L.P., NMC Surgery Center L.P., NME Headquarters Inc., NME Properties Corp., NME Properties Inc., NME Property Holding Co. Inc., NME Psychiatric Hospitals Inc., NME Rehabilitation Properties Inc., NSCH GP Holdings LLC, NSCH/USP Desert Surgery Centers L.L.C., NUCH of Georgia L.L.C., NUCH of Massachusetts LLC, NUCH of Michigan Inc., NUCH of Texas, Nacogdoches ASC-LP Inc., Name of Entity, National ASC Inc., National Ancillary Inc., National Diagnostic Imaging Centers Inc., National HHC Inc., National Home Health Holdings Inc., National ICN Inc., National Imaging Center Holdings Inc., National Medical Services II Inc., National Outpatient Services Holdings Inc., National Surgery Center Holdings Inc., National Urgent Care Holdings Inc., National Urgent Care Inc., Network Management Associates Inc., New Dimensions LLC, New England Physician Performance Network LLC, New H Acute Inc., New Horizons Surgery Center LLC, New Medical Horizons II Ltd., New Mexico Orthopaedic Surgery Center LLC, New Salem ASC RE LLC, Newhope Imaging Center Inc., North Anaheim Surgery Center LLC, North Atlantic Surgical Suites LLC, North Campus Surgery Center LLC, North Carolina Community Family Medicine L.L.C., North Central Surgical Center L.L.P., North Denver Musculoskeletal Surgical Partners LLC, North Fulton Cardiovascular Medicine L.L.C., North Fulton Hospitalist Group L.L.C., North Fulton Medical Center Inc., North Fulton Primary Care - Willeo Rd. L.L.C., North Fulton Primary Care - Windward Parkway L.L.C., North Fulton Primary Care - Wylie Bridge L.L.C., North Fulton Primary Care Associates L.L.C., North Fulton Pulmonary Specialists L.L.C., North Fulton Womens Consultants L.L.C., North Garland Surgery Center L.L.P., North Haven Surgery Center LLC, North Miami Medical Center Ltd., North Shore Medical Billing Center L.L.C., North Shore Medical Center Inc., North Shore Same Day Surgery L.L.C., North Shore Surgical Suites LLC, North State Surgery Centers L.P., NorthPointe Surgical Suites LLC, NorthShore/USP Surgery Centers II L.L.C., Northern Monmouth Regional Surgery Center L.L.C., Northridge ASC RE LLC, Northridge Surgery Center L.P., Northwest Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Northwest Georgia Orthopaedic Surgery Center LLC, Northwest Regional ASC LLC, Northwest Regional Surgery Center LLC, Northwest Surgery Center LLP, Northwest Surgery Center Ltd., Novant Health/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Novant/UVA/USP Surgery Centers LLC, OCOMS Imaging LLC, OCOMS Professional Services LLC, OLOL/USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., Okatie Surgical Partners L.L.C., Oklahoma Center for Orthopedic and Multi-Specialty Surgery LLC, Old Tesson Surgery Center L.P., Olive Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Olive Branch Urgent Care #1 LLC, Ophthalmology Anesthesia Services LLC, Ophthalmology Surgery Center of Orlando LLC, Optimum Spine Center LLC, OrNda Healthcorp, OrNda Hospital Corporation, Orlando Health/USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., OrthoArizona Surgery Center Gilbert LLC, OrthoLink ASC Corporation, OrthoLink Physicians Corporation, OrthoLink Radiology Services Corporation, OrthoLink/ Georgia ASC Inc., OrthoLink/Baptist ASC LLC, OrthoLink/New Mexico ASC Inc., Orthopedic Associates of the Lowcountry L.L.C., Orthopedic South Surgical Partners LLC, Orthopedic and Surgical Specialty Company LLC, PAHS/USP Surgery Centers LLC, PDN L.L.C., PHPS Inc., PHPS-CHM Acquisition Inc., PHS/USP Health Ventures LLC, PM CyFair Land Partners LLC, PMC Physician Network L.L.C., PPRE LLC, PSS Patient Solution Services LLC, Pacific Endo-Surgical Center L.P., Pacific Endoscopy and Surgery Center LLC, Pain Diagnostic and Treatment Center L.P., Paley Institute Global LLC, Palm Beach Gardens Community Hospital Inc., Palm Beach International Surgery Center LLC, Palm Valley Medical Center Campus Association, Palos Health Surgery Center LLC, Paramus Endoscopy LLC, Park Cities Surgery Center LLC, Park Plaza Hospital Billing Center L.L.C., ParkCreek ASC LLC, Parkway Recovery Care Center LLC, Parkwest Surgery Center L.P., Patient Partners LLC, Peak Gastroenterology ASC LLC, Pediatric Surgery Center Odessa LLC, Pediatric Surgery Centers LLC, Physician Performance Network L.L.C., Physician Performance Network of Arizona LLC, Physician Performance Network of Detroit, Physician Performance Network of South Carolina LLC, Physician Performance Network of Tucson LLC, Physicians Performance Network of Houston, Physicians Performance Network of North Texas, Physicians Surgery Center at Good Samaritan LLC, Physicians Surgery Center of Tempe LLC, Physicians Surgical Center of Ft. Worth LLP, Physicians Surgery Center of Chattanooga L.L.C., Physicians Surgery Center of Knoxville LLC, Piccard Surgery Center LLC, Piedmont ASC LLC, Piedmont Behavioral Medicine Associates LLC, Piedmont Cardiovascular Physicians L.L.C., Piedmont Carolina OB/GYN of York County L.L.C., Piedmont Carolina Vascular Surgery L.L.C., Piedmont East Urgent Care Center L.L.C., Piedmont Express Care at Sutton Road L.L.C., Piedmont Family Practice at Baxter Village L.L.C., Piedmont Family Practice at Rock Hill L.L.C., Piedmont Family Practice at Tega Cay L.L.C., Piedmont General Surgery Associates L.L.C., Piedmont Internal Medicine at Baxter Village L.L.C., Piedmont Physician Network LLC, Piedmont Pulmonology L.L.C., Piedmont Surgical Specialists L.L.C., Piedmont Urgent Care Center at Baxter Village L.L.C., Piedmont Urgent Care and Industrial Health Centers Inc., Piedmont/Carolinas Radiation Therapy LLC, Placentia-Linda Hospital Inc., Pleasanton Diagnostic Imaging Inc., Point of Rocks Surgery Center LLC, Practice Partners Management L.P., Premier ACO Physicians Network LLC, Premier ASC LLC, Premier Adult and Childrens Surgery Center LLC, Premier Endoscopy ASC LLC, Premier Health Plan Services Inc., Premier Medical Specialists L.L.C., Prince William Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Professional Anesthesia Services LLC, Professional Liability Insurance Company, Pros Temporary Staffing Inc., Providence/UCLA/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Providence/USP Santa Clarita GP LLC, Providence/USP South Bay Surgery Centers L.L.C., Providence/USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., Pueblo Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, R.H.S.C. El Paso Inc., RE Plano Med Inc., RHC Parkway Inc., RLC LLC, Reading Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Reading Endoscopy Center LLC, Reagan Street Surgery Center LLC, Redmond Surgery Center LLC, Renaissance Surgery Center LLC, Republic Health Corporation of Rockwall County, Resolute Health Physicians Network Inc., Resolute Hospital Company LLC, Resurgens East Surgery Center LLC, Resurgens Fayette Surgery Center LLC, Resurgens Surgery Center LLC, Rheumatology Associates of Atlanta Medical Center L.L.C., Richmond ASC Leasing Company LLC, Rio Grande Valley Indigent Health Care Corporation, River North Same Day Surgery L.L.C., Riverside Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Rock Bridge Surgical Institute L.L.C., Rock Hill Surgery Center LLC, Rockwall Ambulatory Surgery Center L.L.P., Rocky Mountain Endoscopy Centers LLC, Roseville Surgery Center L.P., Roswell Surgery Center L.L.C., SCNRE LLC, SFMP Inc., SFMPE - Crittenden L.L.C., SL-HLC Inc., SLH Physicians L.L.C., SLH Vista Inc., SLPA ACO LLC, SLUH Anesthesia Physicians L.L.C., SMSJ Imaging Company LLC, SMSJ Tucson Holdings LLC, SPC at the Star LLC, SRRMC Management Inc., SSI Holdings Inc., Sacramento Midtown Endoscopy Center LLC, Safety Harbor ASC Company LLC, Saint Agnes/Dignity/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Saint Agnes/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Saint Francis Cardiology Associates L.L.C., Saint Francis Cardiovascular Surgery L.L.C., Saint Francis Center for Surgical Weight Loss L.L.C., Saint Francis Hospital Billing Center L.L.C., Saint Francis Hospital Medicare ACO LLC, Saint Francis Hospital Pro Fee Billing L.L.C., Saint Francis Hospital-Bartlett Inc., Saint Francis Medical Partners East L.L.C., Saint Francis Medical Partners General Surgery L.L.C., Saint Francis Physician Network LLC, Saint Francis Quality Alliance LLC, Saint Francis Surgery Center L.L.C., Saint Francis Surgical Associates L.L.C., Saint Francis-Arkansas Physician Network LLC, Saint Francis-Bartlett Physician Network LLC, Saint Thomas Campus Surgicare L.P., Saint Thomas Surgery Center New Salem LLC, Saint Thomas/USP Surgery Centers II L.L.C., Saint Thomas/USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., Saint Thomas/USP Baptist Plaza L.L.C., Saint Vincent Physician Services Inc., Salmon Surgery Center LLC, Same Day Management L.L.C., Same Day SC of Central NJ LLC, Same Day Surgery L.L.C., San Antonio Endoscopy L.P., San Fernando Valley Surgery Center L.P., San Gabriel Valley Surgical Center L.P., San Martin Surgery Center LLC, San Ramon ASC L. P., San Ramon Ambulatory Care LLC, San Ramon Network Joint Venture LLC, San Ramon Regional Medical Center LLC, San Ramon Surgery Center L.L.C., Santa Barbara Outpatient Surgery Center LLC, Santa Clarita Surgery Center L.P., Savannah Endoscopy Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Schertz Surgery Center LLC, Scripps Encinitas Surgery Center LLC, Scripps/USP Surgery Centers L.L.C., Seaside Surgery Center LLC, Shands/Solantic Joint Venture LLC, Shelby Baptist Affinity LLC, Shelby Baptist Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Shore Outpatient Surgicenter L.L.C., Shoreline Real Estate Partnership LLP, Shoreline Surgery Center LLP, Shrewsbury Surgery Center LLC, Sierra Pacific Surgery Center LLC, Sierra Providence Health Network Inc., Sierra Providence Healthcare Enterprises, Sierra Vista Hospital Inc., Silicon Valley Outpatient Surgery Centers LLC, Silver Cross Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Silver Cross/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Sinai-Grace Premier Clinical Management Services LLC, Siouxland Surgery Center Limited Liability Partnership, Solantic Corporation, Solantic Development LLC, Solantic Holdings Corporation, Solantic of Jacksonville LLC, Solantic of Orlando LLC, Solantic/South Florida LLC, South Carolina East Cooper Surgical Specialists L.L.C., South Carolina Health Services Inc., South Carolina SeWee Family Medicine L.L.C., South County Outpatient Endoscopy Services L.P., South Denver Musculoskeletal Surgical Partners LLC, South Florida Ambulatory Surgical Center LLC, South Fulton Health Care Centers Inc., SouthCare Physicians Group Neurology L.L.C., SouthCare Physicians Group Obstetrics & Gynecology L.L.C., Southeast Ohio Surgical Suites LLC, Southern Orthopedics and Sports Medicine L.L.C., Southern States Physician Operations Inc., Southwest Ambulatory Surgery Center L.L.C., Southwest Childrens Hospital LLC, Southwest Endoscopy LLC, Southwest Orthopedic and Spine Hospital LLC, Southwest Orthopedic and Spine Hospital Real Estate LLC, Southwestern Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Spalding Regional Medical Center Inc., Spalding Regional OB/GYN L.L.C., Spalding Regional Physician Services L.L.C., Specialty Surgery Center of Fort Worth L.P., Specialty Surgicenters Inc., Spinal Diagnostics and Treatment Centers L.L.C., Spine & Joint Physician Associates, Springfield Service Holding Corporation, St. Augustine Endoscopy Center LLC, St. Christophers Pediatric Urgent Care Center - Allentown L.L.C, St. Josephs Hospital Surgical Co-Management LLC, St. Josephs Outpatient Surgery Center LLC, St. Josephs Surgery Center L.P., St. Louis Physician Alliance LLC, St. Louis Surgical Center LLC, St. Louis Urology Center LLC, St. Lukes/USP Surgery Centers LLC, St. Marys Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, St. Marys Hospital Cardiovascular Co-Management LLC, St. Marys Hospital Surgical Co-Management LLC, St. Marys Levee Company LLC, St. Marys Medical Center Inc., St. Vincent Health/USP LLC, St. Vincent/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Stockton Outpatient Surgery Center LLC, Subsidiaries of USPI Holding Company Inc., Suburban Endoscopy Center LLC, Summit View Surgery Center LLC, Sun View Imaging L.L.C., Sunrise Medical Group I L.L.C., Sunrise Medical Group II L.L.C., Sunrise Medical Group IV L.L.C., SurgCenter Camelback LLC, SurgCenter Northeast LLC, SurgCenter Pinellas LLC, SurgCenter Tucson LLC, SurgCenter at Paradise Valley LLC, SurgCenter of Deer Valley LLC, SurgCenter of Glen Burnie LLC, SurgCenter of Palm Beach Gardens LLC, SurgCenter of Plano LLC, SurgCenter of Southern Maryland LLC, SurgCenter of St. Lucie LLC, SurgCenter of White Marsh LLC, Surgery Affiliate of El Paso LLC, Surgery Center at Mount Pleasant LLC, Surgery Center at University Park LLC, Surgery Center of Atlanta LLC, Surgery Center of Canfield LLC, Surgery Center of Columbia L.P., Surgery Center of Coral Gables LLC, Surgery Center of Okeechobee LLC, Surgery Center of Pembroke Pines L.L.C., Surgery Center of Peoria L.L.C., Surgery Center of Richardson Physician Partnership L.P., Surgery Center of Santa Barbara LLC, Surgery Center of Scottsdale LLC, Surgery Center of Tempe Real Estate II L.L.C., Surgery Center of Tempe Real Estate L.L.C., Surgery Centers of America II L.L.C., Surgery Centre of SW Florida LLC, Surgical & Bariatric Associates of Atlanta Medical Center L.L.C., Surgical Clinical Excellence at Desert Regional LLC, Surgical Elite of Avondale L.L.C., Surgical Health Partners LLC, Surgical Institute Management LLC, Surgical Institute of Reading LLC, Surgical Specialists at Princeton LLC, Surgicare of Miramar L.L.C., Surginet Inc., Surgis Inc., Surgis Management Services Inc., Surgis of Chico Inc., Surgis of Phoenix Inc., Surgis of Redding Inc., Surgis of Victoria Inc., Sutton Road Pediatrics L.L.C., Sylvan Grove Hospital Inc., TENN SM LLC, TFPS IV L.L.C., TH Healthcare Ltd., TH International Services Florida LLC, THV Park Cities LLC, THVG Arlington GP LLC, THVG Bariatric GP LLC, THVG Bariatric L.L.C., THVG Bedford GP LLC, THVG Bellaire GP LLC, THVG DSP GP LLC, THVG DeSoto GP LLC, THVG Denton GP LLC, THVG Fort Worth GP LLC, THVG Frisco GP LLC, THVG Garland GP LLC, THVG Grapevine GP LLC, THVG Irving-Coppell GP LLC, THVG Lewisville GP LLC, THVG North Garland GP LLC, THVG Park Cities/Trophy Club GP LLC, THVG Rockwall 2 GP LLC, THVG Valley View GP LLC, TLC ASC LLC, TMC Holding Company LLC, TOPS Specialty Hospital Ltd., TPG Hospital LLC, TPR Practice Management LLC, TPS VI of PA L.L.C., TRMC Holdings LLC, TSPE LLC, Tamarac Surgery Center LLC, Tempe New Day Surgery Center LP, Templeton Imaging Inc., Tenet Business Services Corporation, Tenet California Inc., Tenet Central Carolina Physicians Inc., Tenet EKG Inc., Tenet El Paso Ltd., Tenet Employment Inc., Tenet Finance Corp., Tenet Florida Inc., Tenet Florida Physician Services II L.L.C., Tenet Florida Physician Services III L.L.C., Tenet Florida Physician Services L.L.C., Tenet Fort Mill Inc., Tenet Global Business Center Inc., Tenet HealthSystem Bucks County L.L.C., Tenet HealthSystem Graduate L.L.C., Tenet HealthSystem Hahnemann L.L.C., Tenet HealthSystem Medical Inc., Tenet HealthSystem Nacogdoches ASC GP Inc., Tenet HealthSystem Philadelphia Inc., Tenet HealthSystem Roxborough LLC, Tenet HealthSystem St. Christophers Hospital for Children L.L.C., Tenet Hilton Head Heart L.L.C., Tenet Hospitals Limited, Tenet Network Management Inc., Tenet Patient Safety Organization LLC, Tenet Physician Resources LLC, Tenet Physician Services - Hilton Head Inc., Tenet Rehab Piedmont Inc., Tenet Relocation Services L.L.C., Tenet SC East Cooper Hospitalists L.L.C., Tenet South Carolina Gastrointestinal Surgical Specialists L.L.C., Tenet South Carolina Island Medical L.L.C., Tenet South Carolina Lowcountry OB/GYN L.L.C., Tenet South Carolina Mt. Pleasant OB/GYN L.L.C., Tenet Unifour Urgent Care Center L.L.C., Tenet Ventures Inc., TenetCare Frisco Inc., Terre Haute Surgical Center LLC, Teton Outpatient Services LLC, Texan Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Texas Endoscopy Centers LLC, Texas Health Venture Arlington Hospital LLC, Texas Health Venture Baylor Plano LLC, Texas Health Venture Carrollton LLC, Texas Health Venture Centennial LLC, Texas Health Venture Ennis LLC, Texas Health Venture Fort Worth L.L.C., Texas Health Venture Granbury LLC, Texas Health Venture Heritage Park LLC, Texas Health Venture Keller LLC, Texas Health Venture Las Colinas LLC, Texas Health Venture Mansfield LLC, Texas Health Venture Plano Endo LLC, Texas Health Venture Plano LLC, Texas Health Venture Plano Parkway LLC, Texas Health Venture Texas Spine LLC, Texas Health Ventures Group L.L.C., Texas Orthopedics Surgery Center LLC, Texas Regional Medical Center LLC, Texas Regional Medical in Sunnyvale, Texas Spine and Joint Hospital LLC, The 6300 West Roosevelt Partnership, The Ambulatory Surgical Center of St. Louis L.P., The Healthcare Insurance Corporation, The Healthcare Underwriting Company a Risk Retention Group, The Huron Corporation, The Outpatient Center LLC, The Southeastern Spine Institute Ambulatory Surgery Center L.L.C., The Surgery Center at Jensen Beach LLC, The Surgery Center at Williamson LLC, The Tresanti Surgical Center LLC, Theda Oaks Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Center LLC, Titan Health Corporation, Titan Health of Chattanooga Inc., Titan Health of Hershey Inc., Titan Health of Mount Laurel LLC, Titan Health of North Haven Inc., Titan Health of Pittsburgh Inc., Titan Health of Pleasant Hills Inc., Titan Health of Princeton Inc., Titan Health of Sacramento Inc., Titan Health of Saginaw Inc., Titan Health of Titusville Inc., Titan Health of West Penn Inc., Titan Health of Westminster Inc., Titan Management Corporation, Titusville Center for Surgical Excellence LLC, Toms River Surgery Center L.L.C., Total Joint Center of the Northland LLC, Tower Road Real Estate LLC, Tower/USP Surgery Centers LLC, Treasure Coast ASC LLC, Trophy Club Medical Center L.P., True Medical Weight Loss L.P., True Medical Wellness LP, True Results Georgia Inc., True Results HoldCo LLC, True Results Missouri LLC, Tucson Digestive Institute LLC, Tucson Hospital Holdings Inc., Tucson Physician Group Holdings LLC, Turlock Imaging Services LLC, Turlock Land Company LLC, Tuscan Surgery Center at Las Colinas LLC, Twin Cities Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Twin Cities Community Hospital Inc., UAP Las Colinas Endo LLC, UAP Lebanon Endo LLC, UAP Nashville Endoscopy LLC, UAP Scopes LLC, UAP of Arizona Inc., UAP of California Inc., UAP of Missouri Inc., UAP of New Jersey Inc., UAP of Oklahoma Inc., UAP of Tennessee Inc., UAP of Texas Inc., UCC Tucson Holdings LLC, UMC Surgery Center Lubbock LLC, UMC-USP Surgery Centers LLC, USC/Norris Cancer Hospital, USP 12th Ave Real Estate Inc., USP Acquisition Corporation, USP Alexandria Inc., USP Assurance Company, USP Athens Inc., USP Atlanta Inc., USP Austin Inc., USP Bariatric LLC, USP Beaumont Inc., USP Bergen Inc., USP Bloomington Inc., USP Bridgeton Inc., USP Cedar Park Inc., USP Chesterfield Inc., USP Chicago Inc., USP Cincinnati Inc., USP Coast Inc., USP Columbia Inc., USP Connecticut Inc., USP Corpus Christi Inc., USP Creve Coeur Inc., USP Denver Inc., USP Des Peres Inc., USP Destin Inc., USP Domestic Holdings Inc., USP Effingham Inc., USP Encinitas Endoscopy Inc., USP Fenton Inc., USP Festus Inc., USP Florissant Inc., USP Fort Lauderdale Inc., USP Fort Worth Hospital Real Estate Inc., USP Fredericksburg Inc., USP Fresno Inc., USP Frontenac Inc., USP Gateway Inc., USP HMH Surgery Center at Shore LLC, USP Harbour View Inc., USP Houston Inc., USP Indiana Inc., USP International Holdings Inc., USP Jersey City Inc., USP Kansas City Inc., USP Knoxville Inc., USP Little Rock Inc., USP Long Island Inc., USP Louisiana Inc., USP Lubbock Inc., USP Maryland Inc., USP Mason Ridge Inc., USP Mattis Inc., USP Michigan Inc., USP Midland Inc., USP Midland Real Estate Inc., USP Midwest Inc., USP Mission Hills Inc., USP Montana Inc., USP Morris Inc., USP Mt. Vernon Inc., USP Nevada Holdings LLC, USP Nevada Inc., USP New Hampshire Inc., USP New Jersey Inc., USP Newport News Inc., USP North Carolina Inc., USP North Kansas City Inc., USP North Texas Inc., USP Northwest Arkansas Inc., USP OKC Inc., USP OKC Manager Inc., USP Office Parkway Inc., USP Ohio RE Inc., USP Oklahoma Inc., USP Olive Inc., USP Orlando Inc., USP Philadelphia Inc., USP Phoenix Inc., USP Portland Inc., USP Reading Inc., USP Richmond II Inc., USP Richmond Inc., USP Sacramento Inc., USP San Antonio Inc., USP Santa Barbara Surgery Centers Inc., USP Securities Corporation, USP Silver Cross Inc., USP Siouxland Inc., USP Somerset Inc., USP South Carolina Inc., USP Southlake RE Inc., USP St. Louis Inc., USP St. Louis Urology Inc., USP St. Peters Inc., USP Sunset Hills Inc., USP TJ STL Inc., USP Tennessee Inc., USP Texas Air L.L.C., USP Texas L.P., USP Torrance Inc., USP Tucson Inc., USP Turnersville Inc., USP Virginia Beach Inc., USP Washington Inc., USP Waxahachie Management L.L.C., USP Webster Groves Inc., USP West Covina Inc., USP Westwood Inc., USP Winter Park Inc., USP Wisconsin Inc., USP-HMH Surgery Center at Central Jersey LLC, USP/Carondelet Tucson Surgery Centers LLC, USP/SOS Joint Venture LLC, USPI Group Holdings Inc., USPI Holding Company Inc.1, USPI Holdings Inc., USPI Physician Strategy Group LLC, USPI San Diego Inc., USPI Stockton Inc., USPI Surgical Services Inc., Ulysses True Results NewCo LLC, Underwood Surgery Center LLC, United Anesthesia Partners Inc., United Real Estate Development Inc., United Real Estate Holdings Inc., United Surgical Partners Holdings Inc., United Surgical Partners International, United Surgical Partners International Inc., Universal Medical Care Center L.L.C., University Surgery Center Ltd., University Surgical Partners of Dallas L.L.P., Upper Bay Surgery Center LLC, Upper Cumberland Physicians Surgery Center LLC, Urgent Care Centers of Arizona LLC, Utica ASC Partners LLC, Utica/USP Tulsa L.L.C., VB Brownsville LTACH LLC, VBOA ASC GP LLC, VBOA ASC Partners L.L.C., VHM Services Inc., VHS Acquisition Corporation, VHS Acquisition Partnership Number 1 L.P, VHS Acquisition Subsidiary Number 1 Inc., VHS Acquisition Subsidiary Number 11 Inc., VHS Acquisition Subsidiary Number 12 Inc., VHS Acquisition Subsidiary Number 3 Inc., VHS Acquisition Subsidiary Number 4 Inc., VHS Acquisition Subsidiary Number 5 Inc., VHS Acquisition Subsidiary Number 6 Inc., VHS Acquisition Subsidiary Number 7 Inc., VHS Acquisition Subsidiary Number 8 Inc., VHS Acquisition Subsidiary Number 9 Inc., VHS Arizona Heart Institute Inc., VHS Brownsville Hospital Company LLC, VHS Chicago Market Procurement LLC, VHS Childrens Hospital of Michigan Inc., VHS Detroit Businesses Inc., VHS Detroit Receiving Hospital Inc., VHS Detroit Ventures Inc., VHS Harlingen Hospital Company LLC, VHS Harper-Hutzel Hospital Inc., VHS Holding Company Inc., VHS Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital Inc., VHS Imaging Centers Inc., VHS New England Holding Company I Inc., VHS Outpatient Clinics Inc., VHS Phoenix Health Plan Inc., VHS Physicians of Michigan, VHS Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan Inc., VHS San Antonio Imaging Partners L.P., VHS San Antonio Partners LLC, VHS Sinai-Grace Hospital Inc., VHS University Laboratories Inc., VHS Valley Health System LLC, VHS Valley Holdings LLC, VHS Valley Management Company Inc., VHS West Suburban Medical Center Inc., VHS Westlake Hospital Inc., VHS of Anaheim Inc., VHS of Arrowhead Inc., VHS of Huntington Beach Inc., VHS of Illinois Inc., VHS of Michigan Inc., VHS of Michigan Staffing Inc., VHS of Orange County Inc., VHS of Phoenix Inc., VHS of South Phoenix Inc., Valley Baptist Lab Services LLC, Valley Baptist Physician Performance Network, Valley Baptist Realty Company LLC, Valley Baptist Wellness Center LLC, Valley Health Care Network, Vanguard ASC LLC, Vanguard Health Financial Company LLC, Vanguard Health Holding Company I LLC, Vanguard Health Holding Company II LLC, Vanguard Health Management Inc., Vanguard Health Systems, Vanguard Health Systems Inc., Vanguard Holding Company I Inc., Vanguard Holding Company II Inc., Vanguard Medical Specialists LLC, Vanguard Physician Services LLC, Ventana Surgical Center LLC, Veroscan Inc., Victoria Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Virtua-USP Princeton LLC, WHASA L.C., Walker Baptist Affinity LLC, Walker Street Imaging Care Inc., Warner Park Surgery Center LLC, Watermark Physician Services Inc., Webster Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Wellington Endo LLC, Wellstar/USP Joint Venture I LLC, Wellstar/USP Joint Venture II LLC, West Boca Health Services L.L.C., West Boca Medical Center Inc., West Boynton Urgent Care L.L.C., West Bozeman Surgery Center LLC, West Palm Healthcare Real Estate Inc., West Suburban Radiation Therapy Center LLC, Westgate Surgery Center LLC, Westlake Hospital LLC, Westlawn Surgery Center LLC, Westminster Surgery Center LLC, Westminster Surgery Centers LLC, White Fence Surgical Suites LLC, Willamette Spine Center Ambulatory Surgery LLC, Wilmington Endoscopy Center LLC, Wilshire Rental Corp., Winter Haven Ambulatory Surgical Center L.L.C., Wisconsin Specialty Surgery Center LLC, Wymark Surgery Center LLC, and YNHHSC/USP Surgery Centers LLC. VeriFone Systems, Inc. provides payments and commerce solutions at the point of sale (POS) worldwide. It offers countertop solutions that accept payment options, including contactless, NFC, mobile wallets, and EMV; PIN pads that support credit and debit card, EBT, EMV, and other PIN-based transactions; and multilane consumer facing commerce devices. It also provides portable payment devices, including small, portable, and handheld devices that enable merchants to accept electronic payments wherever wireless connectivity is available; and mobile solutions that attach to and interface with iOS or Android based smartphones and tablets. In addition, it offers integrated electronic payment systems that combine electronic payment processing, fuel dispensing, and ECR functions, as well as secure payment systems for integration with petroleum pump controllers; unattended and self-service payment solutions designed to enable payment transactions in self-service, high-transaction volume, and public transportation environments; and network access solutions. Further, it provides installation, deployment, training, and application development and delivery solutions; project management, client education program, and consulting services; helpdesk support, equipment repair and maintenance, and software post-contract support services; and application libraries and development tools. Additionally, it offers omnichannel commerce, terminal management, and security solutions; and cloud-based managed, transaction payment, and other value added services. It sells its products directly; and through third party and channel partners. It serves financial institutions, payment processors, government organizations, and retailers; petroleum, transportation, and healthcare companies; and quick service restaurants. The company was formerly known as VeriFone Holdings, Inc. and changed its name to VeriFone Systems, Inc. in May 2010. VeriFone Systems, Inc. is headquartered in San Jose, California. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Molina Healthcare: Aetna & Humana - Medicare Advantage, Affinity Health Plan, AmericanWork Inc., Better Health Network, Camelot Care Centers Inc, Children's Behavioral Health Inc., Choices Group Inc., College Community Services, Dockside Services Inc, Family Preservation Services Inc., Family Preservation Services of Florida Inc., Family Preservation Services of North Carolina Inc., Family Preservation Services of Washington D.C. Inc., Family Preservation Services of West Virginia Inc., Florida NetPASS LLC, Hclb Inc., Magellan Complete Care, Maple Star Nevada Inc., Maple Star Oregon Inc., Mercy CarePlus, Molina Clinical Services LLC, Molina Healthcare Data Center Inc., Molina Healthcare of Arizona Inc., Molina Healthcare of California, Molina Healthcare of Florida Inc., Molina Healthcare of Georgia Inc., Molina Healthcare of Illinois Inc., Molina Healthcare of Iowa Inc., Molina Healthcare of Louisiana Inc., Molina Healthcare of Maryland Inc., Molina Healthcare of Michigan Inc., Molina Healthcare of Mississippi Inc., Molina Healthcare of Nevada Inc., Molina Healthcare of New Mexico Inc., Molina Healthcare of New York Inc., Molina Healthcare of North Carolina Inc., Molina Healthcare of Ohio Inc., Molina Healthcare of Oklahoma Inc., Molina Healthcare of Pennsylvania Inc., Molina Healthcare of Puerto Rico Inc., Molina Healthcare of South Carolina LLC, Molina Healthcare of Texas Inc., Molina Healthcare of Texas Insurance Company, Molina Healthcare of Utah Inc., Molina Healthcare of Virginia Inc., Molina Healthcare of Washington Inc., Molina Healthcare of Wisconsin Inc., Molina Holdings Corporation, Molina Hospital Management LLC, Molina Information Systems LLC dba Molina Medicaid Solutions, Molina Medical Management Inc., Molina Pathways LLC, Molina Pathways of Texas Inc., Molina Youth Academy, NextLevel Health Illinois, Pathways Community Corrections Inc., Pathways Community Services LLC, Pathways Community Support of Texas Inc., Pathways Health and Community Support LLC, Pathways Human Services LLC., Pathways of Arizona Inc., Pathways of Delaware Inc., Pathways of Idaho LLC, Pathways of Maine Inc., Pathways of Massachusetts LLC, Pathways of Oklahoma Inc., Pathways of Washington Inc., Providence Community Services, Providence Human Services, Raystown Developmental Services Inc., The Game of Work LLC, The RedCo Group Inc., Total Care Medicaid plan, Transitional Family Services Inc., Unisys -Health Information Management, and YourCare Health Plan. The following companies are subsidiares of PPG Industries: AIPCF V Texstars Blocker Inc., AkzoNobel, Alermac Inversiones S.A. de C.V., Alpha Coating Technologies LLC, Alpha Coatings Inc., Broad Range Development Limited, Brown Brothers Distribution Limited, CG Holdings Manufacturing Co., Centro de Investigacion en Polimeros S.A. de C.V., Chemfil Canada Limited, Chorlton Trade Paints Limited, Comercial Mexicana de Pinturas S.A. de C.V., Comex, Comex Industrial Coatings S.A. de C.V., Consorcio Comex S.A. de C.V., Cristacol S.A., Cuming Microwave Corporation, Deutek SA, Dexmet Corporation, Dexmet Holding Corporation, Distribuidora Kroma S.A. de C.V., EPIC Insurance Co. Ltd., Eberle Design Inc., Empresa Aga S.A. de C.V., Ennis Canadian Holding Company, Ennis Flint Soluciones Seguras Para Trafico, Ennis Highway Traffic Technology (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Ennis Manufacturing Sdn Bhd, Ennis Paint Australia Holding Pty Ltd, Ennis Paint Boya Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S., Ennis Paint Canada ULC, Ennis Paint Germany GmbH, Ennis Paint Netherlands Holdings LLC, Ennis Paint U.K. Holding Company Limited, Ennis Prismo Italio S.r.l., Ennis Traffic Safety Solutions Pty Ltd, Ennis Flint Mexico, Ennis Flint New Zealand, Ennis Flint New Zealand Holding Pty Ltd, Ennis-Flint, Ennis-Flint Africa (Pty) Ltd, Ennis-Flint Inc., Foshan Bairun Chemicals Co. Ltd., Fpu Industrial S.A. de C.V., Grupo Comex S.A. de C.V., Hemmelrath Automotive Coatings (Jilin) Co. Ltd., Hodij Coatings B.V., Homax Products, Industria Chimica Reggiana I.C.R. SPA, Johnstones Paints Limited, Kalon Investment Company Limited, Kalon South Africa Proprietary Limited, Manchester Thermoplastics LLC, Masterwork Paint, MetoKote Canada Limited, MetoKote Corporation, MetoKote Mexico Holding Inc., MetoKote UK Limited, MetoKote de Mexico S. de RL de CV, PPG AC - France SA, PPG ALESCO Automotive Finishes Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., PPG AP Resinas S.A. de C.V., PPG Aerospace Materials (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., PPG Architectural Coatings (Puerto Rico) Inc., PPG Architectural Coatings Canada Inc., PPG Architectural Coatings Ireland Limited, PPG Architectural Coatings Italy S.r.l., PPG Architectural Coatings UK Limited, PPG Architectural Finishes Inc., PPG Asian Paints Private Ltd., PPG COATINGS SINGAPORE PTE. LTD., PPG Canada Inc., PPG Cieszyn S.A., PPG Coatings (Hong Kong) Co. Limited, PPG Coatings (Kunshan) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., PPG Coatings (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Thailand) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Wuhu) Company Ltd., PPG Coatings (Zhangjiagang) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings B.V., PPG Coatings Belgium BV, PPG Coatings Danmark A/S, PPG Coatings Deutschland GmbH, PPG Coatings Europe B.V., PPG Coatings Manufacturing SARL, PPG Coatings Nederland BV, PPG Coatings S.A., PPG Coatings South Africa (Pty) Ltd., PPG DYRUP S.A., PPG Deco Czech a.s., PPG Deco Polska sp. z.o.o., PPG Deco Slovakia s.r.o., PPG Deutschland Business Support GmbH, PPG Deutschland Sales & Services GmbH, PPG Distribution S.A.S., PPG Europe B.V., PPG Finance B.V., PPG France Business Support S.A.S., PPG France Manufacturing S.A.S., PPG Guadeloupe SAS, PPG Hellas S.A., PPG Hemmelrath Coatings Inc., PPG Hemmelrath Lackfabrik GmbH, PPG Holdco SAS, PPG Holdings (U.K.) Limited, PPG Holdings Argentina USA LLC, PPG Holdings Latin America USA LLC, PPG Iberica S.A., PPG Iberica Sales & Services S.L., PPG Industrial Coatings B.V., PPG Industrial do Brasil - Tintas E. Vernizes - Ltda., PPG Industries (Korea) Ltd., PPG Industries (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., PPG Industries (UK) Ltd, PPG Industries Argentina S.R.L., PPG Industries Australia PTY Limited A.C.N. 055 500 939, PPG Industries Colombia Ltda., PPG Industries Czech Republic s.r.o., PPG Industries Delfzijl B.V., PPG Industries Europe Sarl, PPG Industries France S.A.S., PPG Industries International Inc., PPG Industries Italia S.r.l., PPG Industries Kimya a Sanayi VE Ticaret AS, PPG Industries LLC, PPG Industries Lipetsk LLC, PPG Industries Middle East FZE, PPG Industries Netherlands B.V., PPG Industries New Zealand Limited, PPG Industries Ohio Inc., PPG Industries Poland Sp. Z.o.o., PPG Industries Securities LLC, PPG Industries de Mexico S.A. de C.V., PPG Italia Business Support S.r.l., PPG Italia Sales & Services S.r.l., PPG Japan Ltd., PPG Kansai Automotive Finishes Canada LP, PPG Kansai Automotive Finishes U.K. LLP, PPG Kansai Automotive Finishes U.S. LLC, PPG Luxembourg Finance S.aR.L., PPG Luxembourg Holdings S.aR.L., PPG Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PPG Mexico S.A. de C.V., PPG Packaging Coatings (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., PPG Paints Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PPG Performance Coatings (Hong Kong) Limited, PPG Powder Coatings (Shanghai) Limited, PPG Romania S.A., PPG SSC Co. Ltd., PPG Switzerland GmbH, PPG Trilak Kft., PPG Vietnam Co. Ltd., PRC-DeSoto Australia Pty Ltd., PRC-DeSoto International Inc., PT. PPG Coatings Indonesia, Painter's Supply, Paintzen, Peintures de Paris SAS, Plasticos Envolventes S.A. de C.V., Polymeric Systems Inc., Prismo Road Markings Limited, ProCoatings B.V., ProCoatings BV, Protec Pty Ltd. A.C.N. 007 857 392, Reno A&E LLC, Revocoat France SAS, Revocoat Holding SAS, Revocoat Iberica SLU, Revocoat S.A.S, Road Infrastructure Investment Holdings Inc., SEM Products Inc., Sealants Europe SAS, Sierracin Corporation, Sierracin/Sylmar Corporation, Sigma Marine & Protective Coatings Holding B.V., SigmaKalon (BC) UK Limited, SigmaKalon Group, SigmaKalon Middle East B.V., Sikar (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Spraylat International Ltd, Texstars LLC, The Crown Group Co., The Crown Group Inc, The Homax Group, Tikkurila Group, Traffic Safety Intermediate LLC, Traffic Safety Parent LLC, United International Business NV, Vanex Inc., Vernisol S.p.A., Versaflex, Viasa S.A. de C.V., Whitford, Whitford B.V., Whitford Corporation, Whitford Jiangmen Ltd., Whitford Ltd. (HK), Whitford Ltd. (UK), Whitford Pte. Ltd., Whitford S.r.l., Whitford Worldwide Company LLC, Worwag Coatings, and Zaganite Industries Pty Ltd. Continental Building Products Inc (NYSE:CBPX) announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November, 12th. The construction company reported $0.39 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the Zacks' consensus estimate of $0.38 by $0.01. The construction company earned $127.40 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $127.16 million. Continental Building Products had a trailing twelve-month return on equity of 18.84% and a net margin of 12.12%. The firm's quarterly revenue was down 2.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.51 EPS. View Continental Building Products' earnings history. Zalando SE operates as an online fashion and lifestyle retailer. It offers a range of products, including shoes, apparel, accessories, and beauty products for women, men, and children, as well as free delivery and returns services. The company also sells its products through its Zalando Lounge; and brick-and-mortar stores in Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne, Leipzig, Hamburg, Hanover, MAnster, Stuttgart, Mannheim, and Ulm. It serves in Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The company has a strategic partnership with Sephora SAS to create the online prestige beauty destination. Zalando SE was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in Berlin, Germany. Read More "Reclassified: State Drug Law Reforms to Reduce Felony Convictions and Increase Second Chances" | Main | Excited to hear Shon Hopwood speak about earned prison credit as Ohio considers ballot initiative known now as Issue 1 October 3, 2018 Attorney General Jeff Sessions boasts about federal prosecutors now "running up the score against the criminals" As of September 27, 2018, the federal prison population was reported at 181,726, the lowest level in more than a dozen years. But this new speech that Attorney General Jeff Sessions delivered today in Utah suggests it may be only a matter of time before this population is heading up again. Here is an excerpt that leads me to this view: Forging new relationships with local prosecutors and building on existing relationships will ensure that the most violent offenders are prosecuted in the most appropriate jurisdiction. Our goal is not to fill up the courts or fill up the prisons. Our goal is to reduce crime, just as President Trump directed us to do. Our goal is to make every community safer especially the most vulnerable.... Our prosecutors in Utah are running up the score against the criminals. They charged 29 percent more defendants in 2017 than they did in 2014. That includes 64 percent more drug trafficking defendants, 44 percent more violent crime defendants, and 40 percent more illegal re-entries.... In 2018, the Department of Justice prosecuted more violent criminals than in any year on record. At the same time, we charged the highest number of federal firearm defendants in history. Fully 41 percent more gun defendants were prosecuted in fiscal year 2017 than they were just five years before. This past year we broke our own record and it wasnt even close. Over the last fiscal year October 1 of 2017 up to September 30, 2018 the Department of Justice brought charges against 15 percent more violent crime defendants than we did in the previous, record-breaking year. Thats 20 percent more violent crime defendants than we charged in fiscal 2016. We also charged nearly 20 percent more firearm defendants than we did in 2017 and 30 percent more than we charged in 2016. Weve been so tough on illegal guns that were actually getting attacked in the press for it if you can believe that. Heres what the critics dont understand: we are going after violent felons. We are targeting the most dangerous people in the most violent areas who have guns.... Law enforcement pays dividends because when we have safer streets, businesses are more likely to invest and create jobs, property values go up, and the people we serve are more likely to flourish. And so we are going to keep up this pace. We are going to keep supporting Utahs state and local police. Were going to keep arming them with the tools, resources, and expertise that they need to protect the people of this city and this state. October 3, 2018 at 04:57 PM | Permalink Comments Sessions, here this. If you want to beat on your chest, reduce the shootings to 25/week, then the public might, might respect you. All your doing is beating up on the weak, alcohol and drug addicts. Pick on someone that actually is violent, C H I C A G O T H U G S Posted by: MidWestGuy | Oct 3, 2018 9:15:57 PM I certainly hope that he is in fact focussed on violent offenders, as he repeatedly says. Posted by: William Jockusch | Oct 3, 2018 11:56:34 PM Nationally, we can prosecute 10 times more federal firearm cases than are presently prosecuted simply by following the Tennessee USAO model -- let the state prosecute the substantive offense -- let the feds prosecute the attendant 18:924(c). I my opinion, the quantity of prosecutions does not equal quality of prosecutions. Most criminals are dumb. Anyone can prosecute low hanging fruit. The real issue for federal prosecution is getting the smart ones. It takes money and a lot of time to get the truly smart and effective violent criminals. In this vein, my interaction with federal violent crime task forces, as a 30 year criminal defense practitioner, is that usually they identify those persons who are worthy of of a significant sentence. A focus on those persons who are a present danger as opposed to you did X, you deserve Y mandatory minimum sentence is a better measure which should not be controlled by DOJ. A national federal police force run by DOJ (Read FBI/ATF/HSI) is not needed for what are really low hanging firearm charges Posted by: ? | Oct 4, 2018 9:05:43 PM @ ? I agree with you, its not volume, its quality of prosecutions. Low hanging fruit isnt for the feds, get the biggees, ones behind the big crimes. Posted by: MidWestGuy | Oct 5, 2018 10:01:43 PM Post a comment A publisher's request for submissions from formerly and currently incarcerated individuals | Main | Attorney General Jeff Sessions boasts about federal prosecutors now "running up the score against the criminals" The title of this post is the title of this notable new issue brief authored by Brian Elderbroom and Julia Durnan from the Urban Institute. Here is how it gets started and part of its conclusion: Recognizing the harm caused by felony convictions and the importance of targeting limited correctional resources more efficiently, state policymakers and voters have made key adjustments to their drug laws in recent years. Beginning in 2014 with Proposition 47 in California, five states have reclassified all drug possession from a felony to a misdemeanor. Following the California referendum, legislation in Utah (House Bill 348 in 2015), Connecticut (House Bill 7104 in 2015), and Alaska (Senate Bill 91 in 2016) passed with overwhelming bipartisan majorities, and Oklahoma voters in 2016 reclassified drug possession through a ballot initiative (State Question 780) with nearly 60 percent support. The reforms that have been passed in recent years share three critical details: convictions for simple drug possession up to the third conviction are classified as misdemeanors, people convicted of drug possession are ineligible for state prison sentences, and these changes apply to virtually all controlled substances. This brief explores the policy details of reclassification, the potential impact of the reforms, and lessons for other states looking to adopt similar changes to their drug laws.... Reclassifying drug possession from a felony to a misdemeanor can reduce the negative impacts imposed on people and communities by felony convictions, reduce imprisonment of people convicted of drug possession, and redirect limited resources to treatment and prevention without negatively impacting public safety. The five states that have reclassified drug possession represent a wide range of political beliefs and reclassification has broad bipartisan support across the country. Governors from the Republican, Democratic, and Independent parties have signed reclassification legislation, and voters approved reclassification at the ballot in states as diverse as California and Oklahoma. State profiles in the appendix of this report provide more detail on these reforms, including the definition for drug possession, criminal penalties, projected or actual impacts, and reinvestment funding. But reclassifying drug possession is only one step that states can take to reduce incarceration and reallocate prison spending to less costly and more effective options. Lessons from the states that have reclassified drug possession, and research on the wide gap between state funding of behavioral health programs and treatment needs, suggest the need for a significant shift in how states deal with substance abuse and approach drug policy. Welcome to Dalhousie University Join us in creating a lasting impact For more than 200 years, Dalhousies faculty and staff have contributed to a vibrant, purpose-driven community on our campuses in the heart of Halifax, in Truro/Bible Hill, Nova Scotia and in Saint John, New Brunswick. As Atlantic Canadas leading research-intensive university, we bring together the brightest minds from diverse perspectives to drive the regions intellectual, social and economic development. We are committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive space for everyone who works or studies with us. By working together, were able to make a difference every day at home, across the country and around the world. Job Openings: To view open positions, please choose a job type below, or click HERE to view all postings. An international expert in restorative justice, Schulich School of Law Professor Jennifer Llewellyn is this years recipient of one of the top research awards in Canada Today (Wednesday, Oct. 3), Prof. Llewellyn was announced as the recipient of a $50,000 Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) 2018 Impact Award in the Connection category. The winners in each category Talent, Insight, Connection, and Partnership, as well as the Gold Medal recipient will receive their awards from Governor General Julie Payette at Rideau Hall in Ottawa this evening. The annual SSHRC Impact Awards recognize the highest achievements from outstanding researchers and students in social sciences and humanities research, research training, knowledge mobilization and scholarship funded partially or completely by SSHRC. The Connection category celebrates research that facilitates the flow and exchange of knowledge within or beyond the social sciences and humanities community. Itss given to an individual whose project has engaged the campus or wider community and has generated intellectual, cultural, social, or economic impacts. I am honoured to receive this Impact Award, says Prof. Llewellyn. It is particularly meaningful to be recognized in the Connection category, because connection is central to the subject matter and approach of my research and work. I have been fortunate to work with academic colleagues and dedicated partners in government and communities provincially, nationally, and internationally. Groundbreaking work Prof. Llewellyn is the Yogis and Keddy Chair in Human Rights Law at the Schulich School of Law and an international expert in restorative justice. She has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the values of restorative justice through both her academic work and her personal life. Professor Llewellyns restorative justice research and work are innovative and ground-breaking, and are made richer by her commitment to and her success in building transformative connections with government, community and academic partners in Canada and around the world, says Schulich School of Law Dean Camille Cameron. Her expertise and leadership are having a significant impact on the development of meaningful restorative justice networks and initiatives. Prof. Llewellyns teaching and research is focused in the areas of restorative justice, truth commissions, international and domestic human rights law, and Canadian constitutional law. She is the author of multiple publications and reports on the theory and practice of a restorative approach. Professor Llewellyn is arguably the most pivotal leader in restorative justice in Canada and internationally, says Alice Aiken, Dalhousies vice-president of Research and Innovation. She has an innate willingness, capacity, and commitment to address some of the most challenging social issues and to facilitate the empowerment of those most affected. She has contributed to meaningful criminal justice reform in Canada and around the world. International impact In 2006, Prof. Llewellyn established the Nova Scotia Restorative Justice Community University Research Alliance (NSRJ-CURA). Through a focus on the institutionalization of restorative justice based on Nova Scotias early leadership in the field, she built an alliance of 18 government and community partners representing all the central stakeholders in the restorative justice program in Nova Scotia together with leading researchers from five Canadian universities. The research alliance expanded as new connections were made across sectors (education, community services, human rights) and internationally through several learning visits by delegations from the United States, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and New Zealand. Prof. Llewellyn continues to advance this research and expand the collaborations essential to its dissemination and impact through her current SSHRC-funded projects on Restorative Approach to Human Rights and as co-applicant for a Partnership Development Grant on the use of a restorative approach to education for reconciliation using virtual reality to address systemic racism in relation to the story of Nova Scotias Home for Colored Children. Prof. Llewellyn has developed and facilitated restorative justice projects around the world. She has worked for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa in the wake of apartheid and was a senior advisor for the United Nations Development Programme supporting the development of a national restorative justice policy for Jamaica. Her work on international peacebuilding led to an invitation to present to the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission and the World Summit of Nobel Laureates in Warsaw, and to serve as Canadas representative at the United Nations expert meeting on the use of restorative justice in criminal matters. She currently directs the International Learning Community, a global network of leading researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to support and amplify the application and impact of research for the benefit of communities in Canada and around the world. Here at home Prof. Llewellyn advises Nova Scotias Department of Justice in the development of a restorative justice program, worked with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that addressed abuses in Canadas residential schools, and facilitated the design of the first restorative public-inquiry process for the Nova Scotia Home for Colored Children (she is serving as a commissioner on the inquiry). Pfo. Llewellyn also helped support restorative work at Dalhousie, including an innovative pilot that began in 2011, when the university collaborated with the Halifax Regional Municipality and the Nova Scotia Department of Justice to address students behaviour on and off campus. In addition, she has built significant connections with lasting impacts through training and mentoring students and emerging scholars. One of her projects funded 39 undergraduate research assistants and six graduate fellows and hosted five annual student conferences in conjunction with the restorative justice course that she designed and teaches at the Schulich School of Law. Universities provide such important space to bring together diverse partners across disciplines and sectors to learn collaboratively and use knowledge to make a difference in the world, says Prof. Llewellyn. I have been lucky that this approach has been valued by the institution where I work. The Schulich School of Law has a longstanding commitment to unselfish public service, and Dalhousie is passionate about ensuring the research and knowledge make a difference beyond its campus. Your privacy Dalhousie University is committed to providing our faculty, staff, students, and visitors with websites that respect their privacy. This page summarizes the privacy policy and practices for all official Dalhousie University websites. Our websites do not automatically gather any personal information from you, such as your name, phone number, or email address. This information is only obtained if you provide it voluntarily, through contacting us via email or through an online form. Any information that you choose to provide will be protected in accordance with applicable privacy legislation and Dalhousie University policies and procedures. 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Challenging issues for SCOTUS in criminal cases that may impact only a few persons ever and the entire structure of government always | Main | A publisher's request for submissions from formerly and currently incarcerated individuals The title of this post is the title of this new paper now available via SSRN authored by Peter Joy and Rodney Uphoff. Here is its abstract: In theory, at least, many subscribe to the belief that it is better to let 10 or 100 guilty persons go free rather than convict an innocent person. Indeed, the American criminal justice system provides criminal defendants a panoply of important rights, including the right to effective assistance of counsel, in large part to ensure that the innocent are not convicted of crimes that they did not commit. But defense counsel is there not only to protect the innocent, but also to ensure that, if the defendant is found guilty after trial or if the defendant pleads guilty before trial, he or she will receive a fair sentence. In practice, however, too many criminal defendants receive lackluster representation, and few ever actually exercise their right to trial. Instead, our current criminal justice system is plea-bargain-driven, and the vast majority of state and federal criminal offenders plead guilty approximately 97% of federal cases and 94% of state cases are resolved by guilty pleas rather than trials. Commenting on the prevalence of negotiated guilty pleas, the U.S. Supreme Court has stated that plea bargaining is . . . not some adjunct to the criminal justice system; it is the criminal justice system. Why, then, are criminal defense lawyers able to persuade the vast majority of their clients to plead guilty, even those who are actually innocent? Put simply, it is because our system punishes so severely those who go to trial and lose. If we are serious about both minimizing the conviction of the innocent and sentencing reform, we must address this reality. This essay, therefore, focuses on two pernicious features of our current criminal justice system misuse of plea bargaining and misuse of informants that explain why so few criminal defendants exercise their right to trial. We conclude with proposals that might ameliorate those features of our system. Any use of a web site or its contents or both (collectively: "Web Site") hosted by Dalhousie University ("Dalhousie") is subject to the following terms and conditions. Use of a Web Site hosted by Dalhousie is conclusive evidence that the user has read, understood, and accepted the following terms and conditions. If you do not want to accept the following terms and conditions, do not use a Web Site hosted by Dalhousie. Copyright/permission to reproduce Materials on the Web Site were produced and/or compiled by Dalhousie for the purpose of providing visitors with direct access to information about the programs and services offered by Dalhousie. 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The latest turn in this long-running case comes after the U.S. Supreme Court earlier this week declined to hear an appeal filed by Tamara Cotman and Angela Williamson. Cotman was a regional administrator and Williamson taught 4th grade at Dobbs Elementary School. Both women have remained free on bond during the appeals process. State investigators said that Cotman threatened educators with their jobs if they didnt boost scores by any means possible. As for Williamson, she reportedly prompted students to change incorrect answers during the test, and threatened students by telling them they would have to repeat the 4th grade if they ever told of the cheating. Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard, whose office prosecuted the case and offered the defendants plea bargain deals said, We are not happy or elated about what is to happen with them. We would have preferred they would have taken responsiblity many days before and we would hope we would not be at this point. The women have maintained their innocence. After their convictions in 2015, they appealed to the Georgia Court of Appeals, which upheld their convictions. Both the Georgia Supreme Court and the U.S. Supreme Court declined to review the case. Williamson is shaken by the decision of the Supreme Court, but she is resolute in her maintenance of her innocence, attorney Gerald Griggs said in an interview with Education Week. She is preparing to turn herself into the Fulton County Sheriff to begin serving her sentence. Williamson faces up to two years in prison. Cotman was sentenced to three years. Her attorney Benjamin Davis did not return a call asking for a comment. Nearly 200 Atlanta educators were initially linked to systematic cheating, either by guiding students to correct answers or erasing and changing answers after students turned in their tests. Prosecutors said that the educators were under enormous pressure from then-Superintendent Beverly Hall to boost test scores in the high-poverty district. Hall was also charged in the case but died from cancer before going to trial. The cheating came to light after the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported on the suspicious test scores. Of the 11 educators who were ultimately convicted, Cotman and Williamson were the only ones who appealed directly to the higher courts. Two others accepted plea bargains, and the remaining 7 defendants are planning on asking for a new trial. As of now, that trial date has not been set. Photo credit: Dobbs Elementary School in Atlanta was the epicenter of a 2007-08 cheating scandal that sunk the careers of dozens of educators and altered the education of tens of thousands of students. Swikar Patel/Education Week See Education Weeks coverage of the Atlanta test-cheating scandal U.S. Supreme Court Wont Hear Atlanta Test-Cheating Case A Cheating Scandal Rocked Atlantas Public Schools. Ten Years Later, Efforts to Help Affected Students Fall Short Atlanta Educators Convicted in Test-Cheating Trial Atlanta Cheating Scandal Reverberates This well-established Blog is worth visiting on a regular basis for a wealth of information of interest to Armenian nationals and to the Armenian Diaspora world-wide. Although it has a particular role in promoting international recognition of the Genocide, the Blog encompasses much more and includes many articles of general appeal to all those concerned with Armenian affairs. Much of the content is difficult or impossible to find elsewhere and the long list of links provided gives easy access to a plethora of material on social, political, religious, educational and cultural matters, and many news items from around the world. The official, however, clarified that the FDI cap for insurance companies would remain at 49 per cent. New Delhi: The government is mulling permitting 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in insurance broking to give a boost to the sector, sources said. The FDI policy, at present, allows 49 per cent foreign investment in the insurance sector that encompasses insurance broking, insurance companies, third party administrators, surveyors and loss assessors as defined by the department of industrial policy and promotion (DIPP). The DIPP is an arm of the commerce and industry ministry, which deals with FDI related matters and promoting ease of doing business in the country. Representations have been made to the government time and again on the issue that insurance brokers should be treated at par with other financial services intermediaries, where 100 per cent FDI is permitted. Insurance broking is like any other financial or commodity broking services. The issue was recently discussed in a high level inter-ministerial meeting. The government is positively looking at the matter, sources said. The official, however, clarified that the FDI cap for insurance companies would remain at 49 per cent. The finance minister has recently held meeting on the subject and the Prime Ministers Office too has sought views of the DIPP on the matter. Industry experts have stated that the insurance sector is being impacted due to weak distribution networks. There is a need to strengthen the distribution network to support the sector as a whole. Insurance penetration in the country was 3.4 per cent in 2015 against the world average of 6.2 per cent. Pattali Makkal Katchi on Wednesday said it would a hold protest demonstration on October 5 across Tamil Nadu to condemn the unprecedented hike in fuel prices. (Photo: DC) Chennai: Pattali Makkal Katchi on Wednesday said it would a hold protest demonstration on October 5 across Tamil Nadu to condemn the unprecedented hike in fuel prices. PMK's founder leader Dr S Ramadoss will preside over the protest at Tindivanam and party president GK Mani will lead the stir here, a party release said. "People should be apprised about the impact of the hike in petrol and diesel prices and they too should be exhorted to take part in the protest," a party release said. The price of petrol today in Tamil Nadu is Rs 87.18 and diesel Rs 79.58 (per litre). Actor Mahesh Babu and director Vamshi Paidipally met with Katherine Hadda, the US. Consul General in Hyderabad, this Monday to personally thank her for granting visas to the entire cast and crew of Maharshi at short notice. A 45-day US schedule of the Mahesh Babu-starrer will begin next week, and the team will shoot in New York, among other cities. The actor recently tweeted, It was great meeting @uscghyderabad today. Looking forward to my trip to your hometown New York! (sic). Apart from Mahesh, Maharshi features Pooja Hedge as the female lead and Allari Naresh in a pivotal role. Ram Charan is one of those actors whos only gotten more kind and considerate over the years, refusing to flaunt his stardom at the drop of the hat. He recently announced that he would never display box-office figures on his films posters, despite his last release Rangastalam being a hit. And he also said that the films success was entirely due to the efforts of the director and the rest of the crew. Now, we hear that the actor recently made a generous gesture on the sets of Sye Raa in Georgia he gave every one of the unit members an allowance and told them to buy whatever they wanted with it. A source from the unit says, Charan knew that unit members would need dollars to shop in Georgia, so he gave all the assistants some pocket money. Its a very good gesture. Now theyre all raving about how much the actor has changed for the better over the last couple of years. He is very positive, and he doesnt get angry if something goes wrong, the source adds. HT04 At around 7 pm, the parents of both Manish and Akshaya reached Yadadri and went searching for them at the complex. But when the couple realised this, they went to the third floor of the complex and jumped from there to kill themselves, said Yadadri inspector A. Narasimha Rao. (Representional Image) Hyderabad: Worried about being traced by their parents, a young couple from Alwal attempted suicide by jumping from the third floor of a building at Yadadri on Tuesday evening. The duo suffered severe injuries on their spines and also fractured their legs. They have been admitted to Gandhi Hospital for treatment and are stated to be critical, said the police. According to the Yadadri police, the victims identified as M. Manish, 20, and C. Akshaya, 18, were residents of Subhash Nagar in Alwal. They were neighbours and also distant relatives. The youngsters were in love for some time and eloped from their homes on September 28. On the day Akshaya went missing from her home, her parents lodged a complaint at Alwal police station. After checking out a few places, the couple reached Yadadri on Tuesday and tried to find a room. As they were not married, they could not get a room they were waiting at Sri Chakra Complex. At around 7 pm, the parents of both Manish and Akshaya reached Yadadri and went searching for them at the complex. But when the couple realised this, they went to the third floor of the complex and jumped from there to kill themselves, said Yadadri inspector A. Narasimha Rao. The inspector said that the youngsters received severe injuries and were shifted to hospital. Police sources said that the accused allegedly raped the girl in her house initially a few months back. Thiruvananthapuram : A local leader of the CPI was arrested on Wednesday on charges of raping a minor girl at Mammoodu near Venjaramoodu on the rural parts of the district. Police identified the accused as Hashim, 52. The victim is a 12-year-old girl personally known to him. Police sources said that the accused allegedly raped the girl in her house initially a few months back. The girl, who was staying in the locality, did not reveal to her parents owing to fear. But he raped her again. The girl's parents came across certain changes in her behaviour and on further quizzing she revealed the matter. Subsequently the family lodged a complaint with the local police recently and a case was registered. Since the victim belonged to a dalit family provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act were also charged against the accused. Chennai: Contending that the proposed move to permit hydrocarbon exploration in the state would convert the Cauvery delta region into a desert, DMK Chief M.K. Stalin lashed out at the Centre for awarding the contracts in the Cauvery delta area to ONGC and Vedanta group. Ever since the fascist BJP government came to power at the Centre, it has been implementing schemes such as hydrocarbon (exploration), Sterlite, GAIL (pipeline project) and Neutrino observatory, which are against Tamil Nadu, Mr Stalin said in a statement while announcing an agitation on behalf of his party at the Tiruvallur bus stand on Wednesday. He appealed to the people and party cadres of Thanjavur, Nagapattinam and Tiruvarur to participate in large numbers in the protest. He claimed that the blocks in Tamil Nadu were located in Chidambaram for ONGC and at two places in the Cauvery delta for the Vedanta group. Such a project would turn the Cauvery delta, which was Tamil Nadus rice bowl, into a desert and severely affect farmers in the region. PMK youth wing leader Dr Anbumani Ramadoss has warned the Centre that large-scale protests in Tamil Nadu would erupt if it implemented the proposed hydrocarbon exploration in three blocks. The rights to extract hydrocarbons have been given to ONGC and Vedanta firms. There are plans to extract hydrocarbons from 24 places in these zones. If this plan is implemented, the delta region will become a desert, he said. The proposed blocks were Marakkanam to Cuddalore, Parangipettai to Velankanni and Kullanchavadi to Tharangapadi, he said. Narsimha gave a tonic to Ravi to consume and also gave an unknown injection to him, saying that he would be cured of his pains soon. (Representional Image) Hyderabad: A 25-year-old man died, minutes after he was given wrong medication by a government teacher, who is the husband of a Registered Medical Practitioner under Yacharam police station limits on Tuesday. The family members and villagers staged a protest in front of the house of the accused, demanding justice. The incident took place at Mall village in Yacharam mandal when Rapolu Ravi Kumar, 25, a resident of Venkateshwara Nagar, visited the house of RMP Narmada to get treatment for his ill-health. Yacharam inspector M. Madhu Kumar said that Ravi, a stone worker, was suffering from severe body pains for the last few days. On Tuesday morning, he had been to Narmada's house but she was not present. Her husband, Narsimha, a government teacher at a Zilla Parishad High School in Ibrahimpatnam mandal, asked Ravi about his problem and offered treatment. "Narsimha gave a tonic to Ravi to consume and also gave an unknown injection to him, saying that he would be cured of his pains soon. While returning home, Ravi felt giddy and on reaching home he informed his family members about it. Within no time he collapsed and became unconscious. He was immediately rushed to a hospital in Ibrahimpatnam, where he was declared brought dead, the inspector said. A case will be registered against the teacher Narsimha for causing death due to the negligence. The accused has been suggesting medication for patients for a long time in his wife's absence. A detailed probe will be done and the body will be sent to Ibrahimpatnam government hospital for the autopsy, he said. Kulbhushan Jadhav, 47, was sentenced to death in April last year on spying charges. (Photo: File) Mumbai: The public hearing in the case of Indian national Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court over allegations of espionage, terrorism as well as spying charges, will be heard by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) from February 18 to 21, next year. Kulbhushan Jadhav, 47, was sentenced to death in April last year on spying charges. India has denied all the charges and moved the ICJ in May 2017 against the verdict, invoking its power under Article 74 of the Rules of the Court to grant provisional measures. A 10-member bench of ICJ had in May this year, granted Indias request for provisional measures and restrained Pakistan from executing Kulbhushan Jadhav till adjudication of the case. India has accused Pakistan of violating Article 36(1) of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963, in that the latter failed to inform them of Kulbhushan Jadhavs detention until long after his arrest. In its letter to the ICJ, India claimed that Kulbhushan Jadhav was kidnapped from Iran, where he was carrying on business after retiring from the Indian Navy, and was then shown to have been arrested in Balochistan on March 3, 2016. However, India was informed of Kulbhushan Jadhavs arrest only on March 25, 2016. India also stated that repeated attempts to provide Kulbhushan Jadhav consular access have been turned down by Pakistan. In its application, India has also stated that Kulbhushan Jadhav would be executed should the ICJ not interfere, and that would cause irreparable prejudice to the rights claimed by India. 'In the coming years, when the world discusses initiatives for the welfare of humanity in the 21st century, International Solar Alliance's name will be at the top. We have prepared everyone to ensure climate justice through this ISA forum,' PM Modi said. (Photo: File) New Delhi: An India-led coalition to harness solar energy will eventually replace the OPEC oil cartel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi predicted on Tuesday, as he opened the International Solar Alliance or ISA's first assembly with UN chief Antonio Guterres. "The role of the oil wells today will be that of the Sun's rays tomorrow," PM Modi said at the meeting in New Delhi. "In the coming years, when the world discusses initiatives for the welfare of humanity in the 21st century, International Solar Alliance's name will be at the top. We have prepared everyone to ensure climate justice through this ISA forum," he said. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries or OPEC pumps around a third of the world's oil, and over decades has been able to influence the global energy market by controlling the price of crude. The International Solar Alliance, launched by Prime Minister Modi and then French president Francois Hollande in 2015 and based in India, is an alliance of countries mostly between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn that receive plentiful sunshine. It aims to reduce the costs of financing solar power and the required technology, and to mobilise more than a trillion dollars to build solar facilities and infrastructure by 2030. "The International Solar Alliance represents exactly what needs to be done and represents the future," Guterres said at the event. "We know what we need to do, and by large, we have the tools to do it. What we still lack, fortunately not here in this room... is the political commitment to make the transformative decisions that will lead us onto a safer path," he said. With only a single degree Celsius of warming so far, the world has seen a climate-enhanced crescendo of deadly heatwaves, wild fires and floods, along with superstorms swollen by rising seas. India's population of 1.3 billion is particularly vulnerable to climate change. In August, the worst rains and floods in a century pounded Kerala, displacing 1.3 million people, with climate scientists warning that worse is to come if global warming continues unabated. The International Solar Alliance's first assembly, involving member countries, banks, development funds, the corporate sector and civil society groups, is due to run until Friday. They will engage in dialogues with leaders from the National Assembly, the government, ministries and local administrations about their rights to live and develop in a safe and equal society. This is an annual event jointly held by the National Assemblys Committee for Culture, Education, Youth, Adolescents and Children Plan International Vietnam, the Ministry of Labor, Invalid and Social Affairs, the Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union and the Plan International Vietnam to celebrate International Day of the Girl. From then, each year, IDG is celebrated by all Plan International offices with different themes and focuses. In 2016, Plan International started a global movement called Girls Takeover, where girls and young women could take up influential positions across political, economic and social spaces, confronting the gendered nature of power relations and challenging perceptions around their true leadership potential. During 3 days, 100 girls will engage in brief dialogues with Government/Ministries leaders about Girls safety in public spaces and Child marriage and consequences. Then, girls will put forward their ideas to MPs and Government/Ministries leaders regarding child care, protection and education. On the other hand, Government/Ministries leaders who participate in the forum will listen to girls opinions, answer their questions and commit to solve the problems of girls safety in public places in urban areas and child marriage in areas where most ethnic minority people live. Girls Forum 2018 is the commitment of the National Assembly, the government, civil society organizations and international non-governmental organizations for girls to participate in the process of creating and implementing laws and policies that ensure basic childs rights. This is the first national Girls Takeover organised in Vietnam where girls involve in decision-making processes at high level. They are also empowered to raise voice on a much larger platform than ever before, ensuring girls are visible and inspire others to join the movement for girls' rights and take collective action. International Day of the Girl IDG (October 11) is recognized globally by United Nations General Assembly in 2011, based on an initiation by Plan International Canada, the Canadian Government, EU and other organizations. Simultaneously, in 2012 when the first IDG was celebrated, Plan International launched Because I Am A Girl campaign in 70 countries including Vietnam. It aimed to create a lasting impact on the lives of approximately half a billion girls through Plan Internationals programme and advocacy work. In Vietnam, Plan International kick-started the Girls Takeover event in 2016 by collaborating with students of Minh Khai high school in Hanoi to organize the communications event about girls rights, with participation from over 1.000 students, teachers and parents. In 2017, Plan International Vietnam upscaled the event to 7 programme units in the Northern and Central regions, with over 85 girls stepping into the roles of leaders and influencers in their community like the head of Commune Committee, head of Commune Womens Union, head of District Committee, and more. Over 15,000 children and adults participated in the event. By UYEN PHUONG The Indian government told Parliament last year that more than 14,000 Rohingya people, registered with the UN refugee agency UNHCR, stay in India. (Representational Image | AP) New Delhi: Seven Rohingya immigrants, who have been staying in Assam illegally, will be deported to their home country Myanmar on Thursday, officials said in New Delhi. This is the first time Rohingya immigrants would be sent back to Myanmar from India. Seven Rohingya immigrants will be handed over to Myanmar authorities at Moreh border post in Manipur on Thursday, a home ministry official said. The illegal immigrants have been staying at a detention centre in Silchar, Assam, since 2012, when they were detained by police. Consular access had been given to Myanmar diplomats, who confirmed the identity of the immigrants, the official said. Another official said the confirmation of the Myanmarese citizenship of the illegal immigrants came after the government of the neighbouring country verified their addresses in Rakhine State. The Indian government told Parliament last year that more than 14,000 Rohingya people, registered with the UN refugee agency UNHCR, stay in India. However, aid agencies estimate there are about 40,000 Rohingya people in the country. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims, described by the UN as the most persecuted minority in the world, fled their homes last year to escape an alleged crackdown by the Myanmarese military. Human rights group Amnesty International has blamed Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and the country's government for "burying their heads in the sand over the horrors unfolding in Rakhine State". As CJI, Gogoi will head the three-judge Bench for the controversial Ayodhya case which is slated to be held later this month. (Photo: PTI) New Delhi: Justice Ranjan Gogoi was today sworn in as the 46th Chief Justice of India (CJI) by President Ram Nath Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Gogoi, the first CJI from the north-east, will succeed Dipak Misra and serve a tenure of 13 months up to November 17, 2019. Outgoing CJI Dipak Misra had recommended Gogoi, the senior-most judge after Misra, in September this year followed by President Kovind confirming the appointment. Justice Ranjan Gogoi was among the four judges who, in January, criticised Misra in an unprecedented press conference and accused him of misusing his role of assigning cases as the Supreme Court's Master of the Roster. Justice Gogoi began his legal career in Gauhati High court in February 2001 and from there went on to be appointed as the Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 2011. He moved to the Supreme Court in 2012 and since then has been part of significant cases including the setting up special courts to fast-track cases against politicians. Currently, Justice Gogoi has been monitoring the compilation of the National Register for Citizens in Assam which is intended to identify illegal immigrants in the state. As CJI, he will also head the three-judge Bench for the controversial Ayodhya case which is slated to be held later this month. While two women were rescued by locals, fire brigade officials rescued a five-year-old boy and a 14-year-old girl. (Photo: ANI/Twitter) Mumbai: Two women and a three-year-old child died as they fell into a well while performing a puja in suburban Vile Parle in Mumbai Tuesday. A Fire Brigade official said the incident took place near Dixit Road in Vile Parle (East) around 6:30 pm. Some women were performing a puja sitting on the iron grill on the mouth of a 30-feet deep well, he said. The grill suddenly gave in and the women fell into the well. While two women were rescued by locals, fire brigade officials rescued a five-year-old boy and a 14-year-old girl. However, two women -- Madhvi Pandey (49), Renu Yadav (20) -- and a girl named Divya (3) drowned, the official said. New Delhi: Justice Ranjan Gogoi, who took over as the Chief Justice of India on Wednesday, came out with a new roster allocating cases to various benches, and decided that the Public Interest Litigation matters will be heard by him and a bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur, who is next in seniority to him. After the swearing-in at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Justice Gogoi came back to the Supreme Court and presided over the bench along with Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph in Court number 1, the CJI's court. The new CJI began the day by telling lawyers that fresh parameters would be worked out for mentioning the matters for hearing of cases which require hearing on priority and urgent mentioning. Justice Gogoi, who took oath as the 46th CJI, said: "no urgent mentioning of cases will be allowed" till certain parameters are fixed for it. "We will work out the parameters, then we will see as to how mentioning will be done," he said. "If somebody is going to be hanged tomorrow, then we can understand (urgency)", the CJI added. The Supreme Court website showed the roster of the work for fresh cases notified under the order of the Chief Justice of India with effect from October 3 till further orders. Also Read: Justice Ranjan Gogoi sworn in as 46th Chief Justice of India by Prez Kovind The CJI has decided to keep with himself the PIL and the petitions based on the letters received. The bench headed by him will also deal with the matters relating to social justice, elections, company law, Monopoly and Restricted Trade Practices, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, Security Exchange Board of India, Insurance and Reserve Bank of India. Justice Gogoi has also kept with himself matters concerning arbitration, habeas corpus, criminal cases, contempt of court and ordinary civil matters. His bench will also deal with the issues relating to the appointment of Constitutional functionaries, statutory appointments and appointment of other law officers. Besides the matters pertaining to the judicial officers and Commissions of Enquiry, would also be allocated before the bench headed by CJI. Justice Gogoi has also allocated the PIL and letter-based matters to the bench headed by Justice Lokur whose bench will also be seized of matters of land acquisition and requisition and service. Justice Lokur's bench which is already allocated social justice matters will continue with it along with the matters relating to forest, environment, wild life and ecology. Personal law matters, religious charitable endowments and issues of mines, minerals and mining leases would be allocated to the bench headed by Justice Lokur which will also take up the matters of land laws and agriculture tenancies, consumer protection and issues relating to armed forces and paramilitary. Justice Kurian Joseph, who is third in seniority will have matters relating to labour, rent, service, family and criminal cases. The bench headed by Justice Joseph would also share with the bench of CJI the matters relating to contempt of court. The allocation of work for Justice Joseph includes ordinary, civil, personal law along with religious and charitable endowments. His bench will also deal with simple money and mortgage matters. Besides, his bench has been assigned matters of land laws, agriculture and tenancy and also pertaining to the Supreme Court, High Courts, others courts and the tribunals. Justice A K Sikri, the fourth senior most judge, will also share the matters relating to contempt of court and his bench will deal with taxes matters -both direct and indirect and also the election petitions. Justice Sikri's bench has also been allocated with criminal matters, appeals against orders of statutory bodies, ordinary civil matters and also statutory appointments and appointments of law officers. His bench would also deal with the personal law matters and also those pertaining to employees of the apex court, high courts and other judicial bodies. Indirect tax matters have also been allocated to the Justice S A Bobde, the fifth senior most judge and the new entrant to the five-member apex court collegium, who will also adjudicate upon the matters relating to academics, arbitration, compensation, criminal, family law and ordinary civil cases. Justice Bobde's bench has also been allocated with the matters concerning mercantile laws, commercial transactions including banking and admissions to educational institutions other than medical and engineering. His bench has also been allocated with the matters of admirality, maritime law, admission/transfer to engineering and medical colleges and also matters relating to leases, government contracts and contracts by local bodies. Hyderabad: None of the higher educational institutions in Telangana state made it to the Swachh Ranking of Education institutions-2018 released by the ministry of human resource development. Not even in the Clean Campus category. The Swachh Campus rankings were released by MHRD minister Prakash Javdekar and AICTE officials in New Delhi ahead of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi. The rankings were awarded in several categories like state government universities, private residential universities, private colleges, non-residential universities, technical institutions etc. Best 51 higher educational institutions have been selected for Swachhata Ranking Awards in 8 categories. The first rank under the state-run universities went to Maharshi Dayanand University in Haryana with Guru Nanak Dev University, Punjab standing second; third rank went to the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences in New Delhi. The fourth rank was bagged by Alagappa University, Tamil Nadu and the fifth rank went to Acharya Nagarjuna University in Andhra Pradesh. As per the rankings, only three universities from Andhra Pradesh-Acharya Nagarjuna University, Dravidian University and Koneru Lakshmaiah Educational Foundation secured 5th, 9th and 10th rank in different categories. The institutions were judged on the basis of toilet adequacy, maintenance, garbage disposal systems, hostel kitchen hygiene, equipment sophistication, water purity, storage distribution; campus greenery, rain water harvesting, use of solar systems and village or neighbourhood adoption for hygiene. Among the residential campuses of private universities, Punes Symbiosis International University has been ranked top followed by OP Jindal Global University in Sonipat and KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research in Belagavi. Raipurs ITM University has been ranked first among non-residential campuses. The Northcap University in Gurugram and Dr C.V. Raman University in Bilaspur have been ranked second and third respectively. Mr N. Narayana, Convener, Centre for Educational Research and Analysis said, It is a big shame for Telangana state that none of the higher educational institutes have got Swachh rankings. It is a witness to the governments negligence towards universities and colleges. Telangana has to learn from neighbouring states. Tamil Nadu has bagged 14 awards, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka has 3 each. I hope the Governor as Chancellor of the universities, the state government and the heads of institutes take remedial measures. Professor Mr N.V. Ramana Rao, director of National Institute of Technology Warangal said, Our institute was shortlisted among 6,000 institutions and we were in the top 50. There are different parameters like toilet adequacy, maintenance, garbage disposal systems, hostel kitchen hygiene, equipment sophistication, water purity, storage distribution which decide the rankings. It can be easily achieved if we do this campaign and awareness in a systematic manner. Hyderabad: Residents of Ameenpur, primarily techies, launched a No road, no vote campaign on Tuesday. They put up placards on the dangerous potholes urging authorities to make the road motorable. Several ventures have come up in Ameenpur over the past decade, which was recently converted into a municipality from a gram panchayat. The area is close to several IT and Pharma industries. However, the perennial problem of bad road has been haunting the employees who made this area their home. The road was in bad shape when it was a Gram Panchayat and continues to be so, as officials claim a dearth of funds. A resident and techie, Mr Venkat Arun Kumar said, My family member was seriously taken sick and it took an ambulance 20 minutes to cover the distance of a kilometre, due to bad roads. Accidents, miscarriages and spinal problems are the most common health issues being faced by residents. Two families had a miscarriage and bad road was one of the reasons cited. Another resident, Vikram, met with a major accident due to lack of streetlights and bad roads, and has been hospitalised for two months and is still recovering. Several representations were given to officials, which fell on deaf ears. The issue was taken to the notice of caretaker MAUD minister K.T. Rama Rao who promised on twitter that he would visit the place but did not come. Even MAUD Principal Secretary Arvind Kumar instructed authorities via a tweet to look into the issue but on the ground everything remains the same. A software engineer Ms Anusha Yadav, who is six months pregnant said, After hearing about the incidents of miscarriages, I get extremely tensed when I go out. I hold my stomach tight and at night when I am returning from work it is another nightmare. I have been living here for the past 2.5 years and the road is getting worse each day. The doctor suggested avoiding a bike journey completely. Residents alleged because of the condition of roads, the residents faced a health issue. On Sunday, residents took out a rally urging that roads be repaired or do not ask for votes. Again there was no response. Techies alleged that parties come during election times with promises and this has been going on for 8years, but they couldnt even get one road repaired. In 2006, the Waqf Board appointed a firm of chartered accountants to audit the accounts of the Waqf institutions. However, only 14 institutions were audited out of 141. Hyderabad: The Waqf Board has abolished certain Sections of the Waqf Act that regulate the maintenance of accounts, submission of accounts and audit of accounts for more than a decade. Most of the sections in chapters VI and VII of the Waqf Act 1995 amended in 2013 deal with the finances of the Board and the Waqf institutions. Neither the Board nor the Mutawallis follow the directives of the Act. According to Section 44 of the Act, every Mutawalli shall prepare a budget and submit it to the Board before the financial year ends. Section 46 says every Mutawalli shall keep regular accounts and furnish the same. Section 47 deals with the audit of accounts. Clause (b) of Section 47 says, The accounts of the Waqf having net annual income exceeding 50,000 rupees shall be audited annually or at such other intervals as may be prescribed, by auditors approved by the state government and while drawing up such panel of auditors, the state government shall specify the scale of remuneration of auditors. In 2006, the Waqf Board appointed a firm of chartered accountants to audit the accounts of the Waqf institutions. However, only 14 institutions were audited out of 141. In response to a communique, the Association of Sajjada Nasheens, Mutawallis and Khidmatguzaran Waqf submitted a representation on June 12, 2007 to withdraw the circular. The Waqf Board, on the request of the said association allowed Mutawallis Managing Committees to have their accounts audited either by the chartered accountants appointed by the Board or by the CAs of their choice. Allowing the Mutawallis to audit the accounts with CAs of their choice provides an opportunity to misappropriate funds because they may show revenue and expenditure as it suits them. It is observed that a few Mutawallis submit their accounts regularly and most of them file only before the elections to the Board so that they become eligible for contesting or casting their vote. It is the obligatory duty of the auditor under Sec 47 (2) to specify all cases of irregular, illegal or improper expenditure or of failure to recover money or other property caused by neglect or misconduct and any other matter. He has to specify the name of any person who, in his opinion, is responsible for such expenditure or failure. According to Section 48 it is the duty of the Board to examine the auditors report and seek explanation from Muttawalis and under section 49, the Waqf Board has the power to recover the losses. There is not a single instance of such action being taken by the Board in a decade. Similarly, the Waqf Board has to prepare its budget every year and get approval from the government. The Board must also audit its accounts by such auditor as may be appointed by the state government in accordance with Sections 78, 79 and 80 of the Act. However, such mandatory practices have been abolished by the authorities of the Board. M.K. Hasan, president of the Masjid Sultan Bagh Kiwadiguda, says that when he asked the Board authorities to furnish the list of empanelled auditors, the Board did not reply and he submitted the accounts audited by his own auditor. Women prisoners along with their children put up dance performances during the Welfare Day on Tuesday. Hyderabad: The prisons and sub jails in both the Telugu speaking states celebrated Welfare Day on Tuesday. The three central jails in Telangana and the four prisons in Andhra Pradesh took to performances that included speeches on Mahatma Gandhi and drama enacted by the prisoners. Taking the celebrations to new heights, the womens prison at Chanchalguda allowed children and their mothers to bond during these celebrations. The authorities distributed sweets and snacks to the inmates as additional metropolitan sessions judge, Nampally, Hyderabad Suneetha Kunchala, encouraged woman inmates to begin their process of transformation during their time inside the prison. Furthermore, the judge asked the women to take initiatives from the prisons and use it to hone their skills in self-empowerment. The prisoners who had begun their practice session a week ahead were encouraged by the authorities in enacting skits on Maha Parivarthan and reformation. The prisoners also sang devotional songs in addition to the national anthem. Speeches were given on the journey of Mahatma Gandhi. Apart from the display of cultural arts, the prisoners also took active part along with their children in essay writing, elocution, painting and rangoli making for which winners were applauded by Basheera Begum, superintendent, Special Prison for Women. She said, The initiative brought light into the prison. The women took active roles and were able to express themselves through art forms that will further aid in their transformation, which is the main aim of the prison initiatives begun by director general (Prisons and Correctional Services) V.K. Singh. The farmers entered the national capital riding their tractors and trolleys and proceeded towards Kisan Ghat. (Photo: ANI) New Delhi: The 'Kisan Kranti Padyatra', which began on September 23 and was spearheaded by the Bharatiya Kisan Union, ended at Kisan Ghat in the national capital in the wee hours of Wednesday. The protest march came to an end when the Delhi Police removed barricades post-midnight to allow farmers to enter Delhi and proceed towards Kisan Ghat, said a senior police officer. The farmers entered the national capital riding their tractors and trolleys and proceeded towards Kisan Ghat where heavy police deployment has been made, he added. Also Read: Kisan rally: Thousands of farmers try to enter Delhi, police use tear gas "The 'Kisan Kranti Padyatra' that started on September 23 had to end at Kisan Ghat. Since Delhi Police did not allow us to enter, we protested. Our aim was to finish the yatra, which we have done now. Now we will go back to our villages," Bharatiya Kisan Union president Naresh Tikait said. Earlier, the Delhi Police stopped the protested farmers from entering Delhi through Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border. The police also used water cannons and tear gas to disperse them. Thousands of farmers on Tuesday marched towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, blocking traffic movement on arterial roads leading to the national capital. National highways leading to the capital were swamped with farmers who came in from places as far as Gonda, Basti and Gorakhpur in eastern Uttar Pradesh as well as the sugarcane belt of western Uttar Pradesh. They carried banners of Bhartiya Kisan Union, which gave the call for the march to press for a series of demands. Their list of demands include unconditional loan waiver for farmers, clearing of dues by sugar mills, higher prices for crops, free electricity for farms and a cut in diesel prices. Police arrested members of the Tamil Nadu Toddy Movement for offering toddy bottles as padayal to the Mahatma Gandhi statue, on Tuesday. Image: DC Chennai: High drama prevailed, when members of Tamil Nadu Toddy Movement offered toddy bottles as padayal to the Mahatma Gandhi statue on Tuesday here. Police arrested them. According to police, around 30 members assembled near Gandhi stature located along the Kamarajar Salai near Marina and they were placing a sizable number of toddy bottles before the statue, as tapping toddy in the state has been banned and they urged the government to lift the ban immediately. Convener of TN Toddy Movement S. Nallasamy said that they, a few days ago, sought permission from police. However, the Triplicane police took a group of members including me as a preventive detention, when we had breakfast in a restaurant, he said, adding that even as they had long been demanding for lifting the ban on tapping toddy, , the government had turned a blind eye. Nallasamy also accused the police of snatching phones from members and deleted pictures taken in the morning. Snatching mobile phones is highly condemnable, he said. The arrested members were taken to a community hall located in Mylapore and released later in the evening. When the Election Commission of India announces Assembly elections for Tamil Nadu, political parties in the state would usually be busy preparing election manifestoes, in which some parties include total prohibition to woo the voters. A case in the point is the last Assembly elections in 2016. While one of the AIADMK promises noted that all Tasmac outlets would be closed in a phased manner, other parties like DMK, PMK and BJP promised total prohibition. During 2011 Assembly elections, late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa assured of lifting ban on toddy tapping. However, after winning the election, the government failed to keep up the promise, recounts Nallasamy. Even as political parties differ on various issues, there seems to be unanimity among the political parties in not lifting the ban on tapping toddy, he noted. He also alleged that while all other states in the country allow the toddy tapping, he is at a loss to understand that why the Tamil Nadu denies having given permission to tap toddy. Main political parties run distillery units and supply liquor bottles to the government, which gets profound revenue. Every corner has a Tasmac and it appears that every ruling party cannot run without revenue from Tasmac outlets and they fear that allowing of tapping toddy would steadily bring down the revenue, he noted. It started with late Chief Minister M.G Ramachandran, who banned toddy on January 1, 1987. Since then, all the Chief Ministers from MGR to M. Karunanidhi to current Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami - did not heed to our demand, said another member of the movement. We will continue our protests until the government accepts toddy-tapping, he concluded. The project aims to ensure the effective and sustainable exploitation of underground water resources amidst climate change, and prevent water level decrease, saltwater intrusion and depression due to the exploitation of underground water in Mekong Delta provinces. Its outcomes are expected to help enhance water resource management capacity in the localities, build a database of underground water in targeted areas and use the database in water resource management and policymaking. The project also hopes to raise public awareness and strengthen coordination between specialised agencies, water managers and users in underground water conservation, while enhancing investigation, assessment, protection and management capacity of agencies involved in the project. The project will be rolled out nationwide in four years, from 2018, with funding of more than $2.4 million Vietnamnews Vietnam Coast Guard ship CSB 8001 on her maiden visit to India arrives at Chennai Port on Tuesday as part of the international cooperative efforts with the Indian Coast Guard. Image: DC Chennai: A Vietnamese Coast Guard ship arrived here Tuesday on its maiden visit, as part of efforts to enhance cooperation between the Indian and Vietnamese maritime forces and addressing maritime security threats facing both the countries. The ship CSB 8001, led by commandant Major General Nguyen Van Son, was accorded a traditional reception at the Chennai Port Trust by Indian Coast Guard (East) inspector General Paramesh Sivamani. The vessel has sailed a distance of 3,575 nautical miles from Hanoi, Vietnam to reach Chennai. The visit offers an opportunity to strengthen the cooperation between the two countries and address maritime security threats facing both, such as human-trafficking, drugs and firearms, piracy and illegal fishing, an official press release said, adding that relations between the two Coast Guards go back a long way with ICG ships calling on ports in Vietnam for professional interactions since 2001. According to the media release, the maritime forces of two nations would take part in a volley ball match during the ships stay here. Also, a six-member delegation, headed by Commandant Van Son, arrived for interaction with the Indian Coast Guard officers and take part in a joint exercise Sahyog-Hop Tac 2018 off Chennai coast. Three ships, a helicopter and a dornier from the Indian Coast Guard along with the Vietnam Coast Guard ship would take part in the exercise, the release said, adding that a vessel Sagar Manjusha, owned by National Institute of Ocean Technology, would also participate. Baghpat's District Magistrate Rishirendra Kumar confirmed that the family members changed their religion as they weren't satisfied with the police investigation into the death of Akhtar's son a few months ago. (Representational Image) Uttar Pradesh: When the police treated his son's "unnatural death" as suicide and not murder, a Muslim man in Uttar Pradesh embraced Hinduism along with his family in the hope that the cops will "properly investigate his son's murder" after the switch, the man told reporters. Akhtar, a resident of Badarkha village in Baghpat district, changed his religion on Monday along with 12 of his family members and submitted an affidavit to the area sub-divisional magistrate testifying that the change of religion was voluntary, officials said. Baghpat's District Magistrate Rishirendra Kumar confirmed that the family members changed their religion as they weren't satisfied with the police investigation into the death of Akhtar's son a few months ago. The family organised a "havan", performed other Hindu rituals and changed their names on Tuesday, said Shaukendra Khokhar, state chief of Yuva Hindu Vahini (Bharat) on Tuesday. Khokhar said Akhtar was upset after his son Gulhasan was allegedly murdered. "Gulhasan's body was hung to make it look it a suicide," he said. Even as his family pleaded with the police to not rule out other angles, the police allegedly concluded it to be a case of suicide, the chief of the Hindu outfit said. After Akhtar sought help from the members of his own community, they were reportedly "not very forthcoming and did not help much," Khokhar claimed. Baghpat District Magistrate Kumar said that the matter is being examined in consultation with the superintendent of police. Shailesh Kumar Pandey, a senior police officer, said they are looking into it. Hyderabad: Telangana Congress working president A. Revanth Reddy underwent almost a full days questioning by the Income Tax authorities on Wednesday in the three-year-old investigation into the cash-for-votes scam, which is gathering steam ahead of the TS elections. The I-T officials questioned Revanth Reddy on the source of the Rs 50 lakh seized by the Anti- Corruption Bureau in 2015, as he was offering it to TRS nominated Anglo-Indian MLA Elvis Stephenson. He was also grilled on the alleged shell companies floated by him and his family. Sources revealed that the entire process of questioning Revanth Reddy and his aide R. Uday Simha was video recorded. The I-T authorities have asked Mr Reddy to appear before them again on October 23. Interestingly, intelligence sleuths from Andhra Pradesh were seen at Ayakar Bhavan collecting information regarding the progress in the income tax investigation. It should be noted that Mr Reddy is Accused No. 1 and Bishop Harry Sebastian is Accused No. 2 in the chargesheet filed by the Telangana ACB in the 2015 scam. The two have been accused of trying to bribe Mr Stephenson with Rs 5 crore, a ticket to Jerusalem, and a nominated MLA seat in the AP legislative Assembly, if he voted in favour of the TD in the Legislative Council elections. Mr Reddy was caught by the ACB handing over cash of Rs 50 lakh (as advance) to Mr Stephenson at his residence in Bhoiguda. Sources revealed to this newspaper that Mr Reddy was asked how he planned to pay Rs 4.5 crore to the MLA and to account for the source of the Rs 50 lakh cash he handed over to the MLA. He was also questioned regarding Rs l.5 crore cash seized from the house of his friend K.L. Sreedhar Reddy of KLSR Infra. Mr Revanth Reddy was also asked about Bhupa Infra, which is owned by his brother A. Kondal Reddy and Krishna Reddy. The questioning of Mr Revanth Reddy and Mr Uday Simha started around 11 am on Wednesday and ended at around 6 pm. The I-T authorities have asked me to appear for another round of questioning on October 23. The opposition partys attempts to weaken me have failed, he said. New Delhi: Controversy erupted when a news channel ran a report claiming that Congress social media chief, Ms Divya Spandana aka Ramya has quit. Ms Divyas Twitter bio, which described her credentials as Actor, former member of Parliament and currently handles social media and digital communication for Congress disappeared for hours on Wednesday and mysteriously returned as soon as the news was picked up by the media. The re-posted bio said: Actor, former member of Parliament, currently handling social media and digital communications for the Congress party & I love it! Brushing aside all speculations of her resignation, she blamed a bug issue for the missing bio, and clarified that she hasnt stepped down. Ms Divya who is a prolific tweeter, had been inactive for three straight days since September 29, and only retweeted once on Wednesday after all that hysteria around her social account. Insiders claim that she also called up leaders of the party to inform that her resignation was a speculation that is being spread. The Congress has also denied the report. However, sources say Ms Divya is upset that much of her role has been transferred to Nikhil Alva, the son of Congress veteran Margaret Alva. The actress-politician has also reportedly skipped recent events of the party. The Kannada actor-turned-politician is an active Twitter user who contested and lost the 2014 polls from Mandya. She was appointed as the partys social media head in 2017. Her efforts marked the arrival of the Congress on social media. Ms Divya remains the person behind Congress visibly improved online-cum-offline campaign strategy in recently conducted Gujarat and Karnataka elections. She was recently caught in the midst of controversy when she compared RSS with Muslim Brotherhood. Last week, a sedition case was filed against Divya Spandana in Lucknow for referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a thief. Hyderabad: Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan has suggested that Indian Forest Service trainees go through the hardships and enjoy every moment of their training by maintaining good relationships. The Governor was speaking has with the 2017 batch of trainees batch at Raj Bhavan on Wednesday. If a man like me could reach this position every one of you has a chance, Mr Narasimhan said. The Governor said Indian Forest Service was a highly specialised service and added, Gone are the days when specialised service people held specialised positions in government. He said, IFS officers had helped him during state bifurcation on several issues. Do not confine yourselves to your service. Many IFS officers have gone on to occupy important positions in the government, the Governor said. The Governor told the probationers to develop fresh ideas and not to be restricted to forests. He told the officers that the challenges they face were very high in safeguarding the environment, wildlife and dealing with anti-national elements in forests. Mr Narasimhan said that when he was Governor of Chhattisgarh he had come to know that forest guards were given an area of 10 sq. km with only a lathi and a torch light without batteries. The Governor said tree felling was menace and is being done on a large scale, many times at the hands of mafias. He mentioned the example of tendu leaves collection in Chhattisgarh which was taken out of the hands of mafia and middlemen by establishing linkages between government and tribal people. The Governor told the officers to utilise the forest produce, make the lives of tribes better and help the government in getting revenue. He asked them to promote development of forests and set up hospitals. Hyderabad: Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited will make monthly passes available for its regular commuters by December. HMRL has directed L&T to provide suitable options and rates for the monthly passes. This pass will also be part of the common mobility card which will be integrated with the RTC and other transport services. HMRL managing director N.V.S. Reddy said, We are working on a monthly pass and it should be feasible. We will try to make a combined pass for both the Metro and RTC. Iinitially the smart card will continue as the Metro Raill pass. We requested L&T to take a call and come up with a scheme as early as possible. For easy switching between Metro Rail, RTC buses and other modes, L&THMR will be coming out with a common ticketing mechanism. L&T Metro Rail has signed a contract with the State Bank of India to introduce common mobility cards. During the task force committee meeting setup for transport facilities, a demonstration of devices that Metro Rail and RTC can use to implement the smart card ticketing system was done in August. This is not just restricted to public transport but also private players including Uber and Ola. Mr Reddy confirmed that by December a solution was possible related to implementation of smart cards. This could be a humongous task as Chennai Metro has made futile attempts in creating one. It took Chennai Metro nearly five years to come out with a solution, which reportedly will be implemented soon. The card purportedly is for only the Metro Rial and RTC services. In Bengaluru's Namma Metro is still in preliminary discussions to implement a common card. Delhi Metro at the beginning of this year initiated a pilot project by launching a common card for its services and buses. Nobody has tried integrating it with private cab services. Mr Reddy said they had prioritised works on the monthly pass as the new LB Bagar-Ameerpet corridor saw fewer joy riders and more employees and students. He said, The new line is as per the ridership we anticipated with regular commuters. There were joy riders only on holidays. There is a philosophy to this project to let women travel on their own, which is happening now. It will keep picking up. As we keep solving these last mile connectivity problems, traffic will pick up and then we will keep on increasing the frequency of trains. (From left) Amit Basole, Head Centre for Sustainable Employment, Mallige, Youth for Employment, Madan Padaki, Founder & CEO, Bridge (Moderator), Aseem Shrivatsava, Writer & Economist, Mahesh Vyas, Centre of Monitoring, The Indian Economy at a panel discussion in Bengaluru on Monday Bengaluru: The Indian economy is growing at a fast pace, but it has not translated into more jobs. According to a recent study by the Azim Premji University (APU), jobs growth is less than one percent, with 92 per cent women and 82 per cent men earning less than Rs 10,000 per month, which is much lower than the minimum wage of Rs 18,000 recommended by the Seventh Central Pay Commission. The study - State of Working India 2018, prepared by the Centre for Sustainable Employment at APU - also observes that productivity has increasingly diverged from wages and gender and caste disparities continue to exist. On job growth not matching the GDP growth, report's lead author Amit Basole told Deccan Chronicle that low hiring in labour-intensive sectors, such as health and education, coupled with mechanisation of the manufacturing industry, is the reason behind the disparity. The GDP growth is looked at from various sectors, the biggest contributors being finance, IT services and others. At the same time, in the organised manufacturing sector, work has become more precarious for existing employees as labour productivity has increased by six times over the past three decades, but wages have gone up only 1.5 times," he said. Though gender and caste disparity has reduced over the years, it is still high in some sectors, the report stated. "The caveat is that the paid workforce is still heavily male-dominated in general. Women constitute just 22 per cent of manufacturing and an even lower 16 per cent in the service sector. Female workers remain concentrated in a few industries, such as textiles and garments, tobacco, education, health, and domestic services," the report mentions. However, government programmes like Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), anganwadis, ASHA and such have played a crucial role in increasing women's participation in paid workforce. The report said that lack of available work, rather than social restrictions, may be preventing women from entering the labour force. Caste disparities persist The report mentions persistence of caste-based segregation and disparities, though it has reduced in some areas over time. "Scheduled Caste (SC) as well as Scheduled Tribe (ST) groups are over-represented in low-paying occupations and severely under-represented in the high-paying occupations, a clear indication of the enduring power of caste-based segregation in India. On the other hand, both SC and ST groups are much better represented in public administration indicating the success of reservation policies over the years," reads the report. Lucknow/New Delhi: Dealing a body blow to the Congress and the entire concept of Opposition unity, BSP supremo Mayawati on Wednesday declared that she would not align with the Congress in the coming Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, and singled out former MP Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh for working against a Congress-BJP alliance. Launching a blistering attack on the Congress, the BSP supremo termed senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh a BJP agent. She added: The Congress, like the BJP, is conspiring to finish off the BSP. In a statement to a news agency, Ms Mayawati blamed Mr Digvijay Singh for scuttling the alliance. Referring to an interview given by Mr Singh in which he claimed that Ms Mayawati was being pressured by the Centre not to enter the alliance, the BSP chief said it was the former Madhya Pradesh chief minister who was working under BJP pressure. It was Digvijay Singh who helped the BJP form the government in Goa, she said, adding: In fact, it is Digvijay Singh who is afraid of agencies like the CBI and the ED. She vehemently denied that she was under any kind of pressure from the BJP and said instead of succumbing to such pressure, she had chosen to resign from the chief ministers post in 2003 and then from the Rajya Sabha in 2017. The former UP chief minister accused the Congress of remaining arrogant despite repeated failures and said it was a case of rassi jal gayi, aithan nahin gayi. She said that instead of finishing the BJP, Congress leaders were more interested in finishing the non-BJP parties. The Congress is under the misconception that it can defeat the BJP on its own, but it does not realise that whenever there has been a straight fight between the BJP and the Congress, the BJP has scored. The ground reality is that people have still not forgiven the Congress for its mistakes and corruption, she stated. Hyderabad: In a setback to the TRS caretaker government ahead of the Assembly polls, the Election Commission has denied permission for distribution of Bathukamma saris ahead of the festival. With this, it is believed that the EC would also deny permission for distribution of the Rs 4,000 per acre per season Rythu Bandhu cheques to farmers. The state government had made all arrangements to distribute over 95 lakh saris from October 12 as a gift to women from the government for the Bathukamma festival. All the saris were produced in the Sircilla powerloom cluster at a cost of Rs 280 crore. Each sari cost Rs 290 this year. Caretaker Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao and textiles minister K.T. Rama Rao had earlier said that there would be no hurdles to the distribution of Bathukamma saris and Rythu Bandhu cheques because they were old schemes and the government was only continuing them. Opposition had complained to Election Commission In a setback to the TRS caretaker government ahead of the Assembly polls, the Election Commission has denied permission for distribution of Bathukamma saris ahead of the festival. However, all the Opposition parties complained to the EC arguing that the handouts would influence voters ahead of the Assembly polls and the distribution would be in violation of the model code of conduct. With this, chief electoral officer Rajat Kumar wrote to the Election Commission seeking clarification on the Bathukamma saris. The poll panel issued an order signed by Mr K.P. Singh, undersecretary of the Election Commission, which stated: I am directed to refer to your letter dated September 28, 2018, and to state that the Commission has not permitted the distribution of saris on the occasion of Bathukamma Festival on October 12, 2018. Hyderabad: BJP MP Subramaniam Swamy and law student Satya Sabharwal on Wednesday moved a petition before the Hyderabad High Court seeking an order for freeing 11 temples including the Lord Venkateswara temple from the administrative control of the AP government. Dr Swamy had earlier moved the Supreme Court seeking a direction for freeing the temple from the control of the state government, it had asked him to move the Hyderabad High Court with his plea. Following the apex courts direction, the MP along with the law student filed a plea before the High Court challenging the constitutional validity of various provisions of the AP Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments Act, 1987. They contended that the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, including the Venkateswara temple at Tirumala, the Sri Padmavathi temple in Tiruchanur and another 11 temples in AP, were the richest in India in terms of annual income and asset holdings. They submitted that under the guise of sanction provided in the law to administer the religious institutions, the AP government had virtually usurped the fundamental religious, administrative and cultural rights of Hindu citizens and denominations. He said the hereditary trustees, archakas and other temple-oriented communities who account for a major source of offerings and funds of the religious institutions had become passive observers and onlookers with practically no say in religious matters. They alleged that the AP government had been misusing the funds of the temples which were in the purview of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams and also destructing the heritage of the temples. He urged the court to direct the AP government and the TTD to conduct external audit of accounts, utilisation of funds and properties including jewellery for the past three years of TTD and submit the report to the court. About Me Sandpoint, Idaho, United States Visit wwww.mariannelove.com to learn more about my three books "Pocket Girdles," "Postcards from Potato Land" and "Lessons with Love." visit www.mariannelove.com. For autographed copies, contact me at potatohead89@hotmail.com. Books are also available at www.amazon.com. I'm 65, married, mother of two, retired English/journalism teacher and freelance writer. Besides writing, I enjoy gardening, photography, geocaching, horses and traveling. My quirky, sometimes irreverent sense of humor comes naturally through family genes. So, bear with me. View my complete profile Blog Archive Blog Archive November (13) October (31) September (29) August (31) July (31) June (30) May (31) April (30) March (31) February (28) January (31) December (31) November (29) October (31) September (30) August (31) July (31) June (30) May (31) April (30) March (31) February (29) January (31) December (31) November (30) October (30) September (29) August (31) July (31) June (30) May (31) April (30) March (31) February (28) January (31) December (31) November (30) October (30) September (31) August (31) July (31) June (30) May (31) April (30) March (31) February (28) January (31) December (31) November (30) October (31) September (30) August (31) July (30) June (30) May (31) April (30) March (31) February (28) January (31) December (31) November (30) October (31) September (30) August (31) July (31) June (30) May (31) April (30) March (31) February (29) January (31) December (31) November (31) October (31) September (30) August (31) July (31) June (30) May (31) April (30) March (31) February (28) January (31) December (31) November (30) October (31) September (30) August (30) July (31) June (31) May (31) April (29) March (30) February (28) January (31) December (31) November (30) October (31) September (30) August (31) July (31) June (30) May (31) April (30) March (31) February (28) January (31) December (31) November (30) October (31) September (30) August (31) July (31) June (30) May (31) April (30) March (31) February (29) January (31) December (31) November (30) October (30) September (30) August (31) July (32) June (30) May (31) April (30) March (50) February (72) January (63) December (64) November (47) October (71) September (48) August (70) July (104) June (91) May (85) April (80) March (80) February (52) January (92) December (187) November (63) October (96) September (117) August (92) July (103) June (160) May (141) April (69) March (81) February (71) January (106) December (81) November (67) October (107) September (74) August (114) July (117) June (92) May (103) April (66) March (43) February (38) January (83) December (76) November (77) October (66) September (87) August (68) July (74) June (66) May (90) April (60) March (49) February (54) January (70) December (64) November (30) October (45) September (32) August (39) July (48) June (34) May (40) April (40) March (38) February (47) January (35) December (40) November (47) October (48) September (37) August (35) July (34) June (31) May (33) April (33) March (33) February (31) January (30) December (32) The state has banned fishermen from going out to sea after Thursday. District collectors have been asked to be ready to open relief camps. Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert in Idukki, Thrissur and Palakkad districts and warned of extremely heavy rain on Sunday. A low-pressure area in the Arabian Sea, close to the Sri Lankan coast, is expected to be formed on Friday. This is likely to develop into a cyclonic storm. The predicted trajectory will be along the coast of Lakshadweep, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said after a meeting of the Disaster Management Authority here on Wednesday. Fishermen have been advised to reach safer coast by Friday, he said. The state has sought support from central agencies and asked for five companies of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Mr Vijayan said. The district administrations were directed to take necessary action to handle the crisis, he said. "Tourists have been advised not to travel to hilly regions, especially during nights. Travel to Munnar to see the Neelakurinji should also be avoided from Friday till further announcement, said Mr Vijayan. The state has banned fishermen from going out to sea after Thursday. District collectors have been asked to be ready to open relief camps. The police should also make announcements about the situation through loudspeakers in areas which were affected by floods recently and relief camps should be started in such areas, he said. The symptoms of swine flu are fever, cough, fatigue, diarrhoea and vomiting along with flu. (Representational photo) Hyderabad: As many as 13 swine flu cases have been recorded in the state in the first three days of October despite the extremely high temperatures raising concerns about the spread of the flu in the state. There were seven cases from Hyderabad and one each from Siddipet, Nizamabad, Ranga Reddy and other districts. Senior epidemiologists in the state health department state that they were expecting a rise in the number of cases only in winter. A senior health official on condition of anonymity explained, Last year, the number of cases in Telangana state was not high as people had developed immunity. But this year, we are expecting a mutation in the virus, which could lead to an increase in the number of cases. The onset of cases in October is a sign that the virus is strong and people have to be careful. Pregnant women, senior citizens and those who have a weak immune system must take extra care as they are susceptible to fall sick. The symptoms of swine flu are fever, cough, fatigue, diarrhoea and vomiting along with flu. One must keep their body hydrated and take rest to recover soon. The Vice-Chairman, TSCHE, Prof. R. Limbadri spoke on the various issues that are routed in the universities and an immediate need to weed them out. Hyderabad: The Telangana State Council of Higher Education (TSCHE) has conducted an interactive workshop on Higher Education Leadership and Strategic Approaches to Transforming Teaching and Learning in partnership with British Council of India. Commissioner of Collegiate Education, Navin Mittal, IAS said that there is a need to revise the curriculum of higher education to update the technological know-how. He said that the students have to be well trained to meet the needs of the modern society. TSCHE Chairman Prof. T. Papi Reddy spoke on the need of improving GER in Telangana state. He also addressed the Vice-Chancellors to ensure the quality of Higher Education and employability of the youth in the state. The Vice-Chairman, TSCHE, Prof. R. Limbadri spoke on the various issues that are routed in the universities and an immediate need to weed them out. The two trainees Ms Jo Chaffer, Associate Advance Higher Education and Global Consultant organised the interactive workshop for the Vice-Chancellors, Registrars, Professors, and Principals of the Government Degree Colleges. She derived the need of leadership in the present society and evolved the qualities of an academic leader. She expressed that the leadership is a journey of a thousand steps and each one as yet unknown. She explained that a leader should be relational and is expected to know everything about everyone. Ms Becky Smith, Associate Director, International Advance Higher Education organized an interactive workshop on Strategic Approaches to Transforming Teaching and Learning. She illustrated the qualities of a good teacher. She focused on teaching strategies and teaching excellence. Visakhapatnam: The world turned upside down for the TD leaders, educationalists and industrialists in Vizag on Wednesday morning. The news of the sudden demise of their beloved leader M.V.V.S. Murthi in a road accident in the USA came as a devastating blow. A pal of gloom descended on the Waltair Uplands in Vizag city where the M.V.V.S. Murthis house was located. Several politicians of various political parties, industrialists, educationalists and few others visited the house and tributes poured in from all corners of the country. Vizag South MLA and president of Visakha Urban of TD, Vasupalli Ganesh Kumar organised a condolence meeting at the party office on Wednesday where HRD minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao, MLAs Panchakarla Ramesh Babu, V. Anitha, Bandaru Satyanarayana, PVGR Naidu (Ganababu) and few others of TD leaders expressed their condolence. Expressing that the sudden demise of the educationalist as a great loss to the state of Andhra Pradesh, the TD leaders said that it is an irreplaceable loss to the people of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Vizagites have also lost an iconic visionary and great educationalist, they told mediapersons here. Bengaluru: Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, who met party workers from Ramanagara on Wednesday, reportedly discussed the impending bypoll to it following his decision to give up the seat for Channapatna after winning from it in the recent assembly election. The popular choice of candidate appeared to be his wife, Anita, as the workers and local leaders believed she was most likely to win in his place. While Mr Kumaraswamy did not reveal his stance on the issue, the JD(S) may not have a cakewalk in the constituency as Congress leaders from the district are keen on the party fielding a candidate of its own in the bypoll. Mr C.M. Lingappa and defeated Congress candidate from the constituency, Iqbal Hussain are strongly against the party not contesting the bypoll and have reportedly appealed to their party leaders not to hand over the constituency to the JD (S). Meanwhile, water resources minister, D.K. Shivakumar, who represents Kanakapura in the assembly, seems to be throwing his weight behind the JD(S) to honour the coalition dharma and could work for the Gowda family should Ms Anita be fielded in the by-poll, say sources. However, revealing none of this Mr Kumaraswamy told reporters Wednesday morning that he would discuss developmental issues with his party workers in Ramnagara and Channapatna. But interestingly, the meeting was held at his farmhouse and not at any government office like that of the Ramanagara deputy commissioner, sources point out. Bengaluru: After a nerve-wracking rebellion took the JD(S)-Congress coalition government to the brink, JD(S) supremo H.D. Deve Gowda seems to have realised that he has everything to gain by keeping the coalition's co-ordination committee chairman Siddaramaiah in good humour. Result: Mr Gowda has instructed state JD(S) president A.H. Vishwanath not to press for his own inclusion in the co-ordination committee as Mr Siddaramaiah is opposed to it. There is no love lost between Mr Siddaramaiah and Mr Vishwanath after the Hunsur MLA ensured the defeat of the former CM in the Chamundeswari Assembly poll. Sources said even the common minimum programme agreed upon by the two parties which could mean a rejig of welfares schemes implemented by the Siddaramaiah government, is now on the backburner. What may have rattled Mr Gowda is the 'control' that Mr Siddaramaiah wields over 50-60 Congress legislators who are ready to take any decision in support of their leader. With the JD(S)-Congress coalition government jolted several times during the five months it has been in power, former prime minister and Janata Dal (Secular) National President H.D. Deve Gowda seems to have decided not to raise any issue which would embarrass the coalition partner-Congress. Sources said that Mr Gowda, in an attempt to ensure a smooth sailing for the coalition, has decided not to press for the inclusion of his state president and Hunsur JD(S) MLA A.H. Vishwanath in the all powerful coordination committee or insist on the implementation of the common minimum programme (CMP) agreed upon by the two parties at the time of forming the coalition government. Mr Vishwanath had been batting for the inclusion of KPCC President Dinesh Gundurao and himself in the coordination panel but Mr Gowda wants to keep this issue on the backburner. This subject was not even allowed to be tabled in the party conclave let alone discuss it. It also shows how the father-son duo of Deve Gowda and H.D. Kumaraswamy are at the mercy of former CM and coordination committee chairman Siddaramaiah who can destabilise the government at any time. The recent statement by Mr Kumaraswamy that Mr Siddaramaiah was the savior of his government and he would not allow anyone to topple it clearly indicated how Mr Gowda and Mr Kumaraswamy had compromised with Mr Siddaramaiah especially after the open rebellion by the Jarkiholi brothers. The rebellion was quelled by Mr Siddaramaiah which had sent a message to all his political opponents including Mr Deve Gowda that he was still a force to reckon with in state politics. Sources close to Mr Vishwanath told Deccan Chronicle that Mr Deve Gowda has asked his state president not to make any statement against non-inclusion of the Congress and JD(S) state presidents in the coordination panel or the delay in the implementation of the CMP because of the lack of interest among Congress leaders. Mr Gowda know s about the strained relationship between Mr Siddaramaiah and Mr Vishwanath in the last two years and more so after the former CM was defeated in his home district, Mysuru in the recent Assembly polls. Mr Siddaramaiah had indirectly made his intentions clear by not taking up the matter for discussion in the last three coordination committee meetings. The CM also is playing safe and has stopped criticizing Congress leaders as he is at their mercy. Instead, he has started blaming the BJP for every adverse political development in the state. What has maybe rattled Mr Gowda and Mr Kumaraswamy is the control Mr Siddaramaiah wields over 50-60 Congress legislators who are ready to take any decision in support of their leader. Files sent from Mr Siddaramaiah are being cleared without a murmer and all demands related to Badami assembly constituency represented by the former CM, are being met immediately proving that Mr Siddaramaiah remains as powerful as everthough he may not longer be in the CM seat. Poet Imran Prathapgarphi at his eloquent best at the mushaira organised by the Congress in Nirmal town recently. (Photo:DC) Adilabad: The Congress is now flavouring its election campaign with poetry and using the Mushairas to drive home the message to voters that it is a better bet than the ruling TRS. The party has roped in popular shayar (poet) Imran Prathapgarhi of New Delhi to reach out to the Muslim voters in the Assembly constituencies where the community has a higher population. Imran Prathapgarphis poetry on divisive politics being practised by political parties and his stress on humanity has been received very well across the country. The poet was in Nirmal town on October 1 and the mushaira was well-attended by Muslim voters and Congress leaders like Mohd Ali Shabbir, Fakruddin and Amir Ali Khan and TD leader Ali Masqati, along with former MLA Aleti Maheshwar Reddy and Adilabad Congress Minority Cell president Sajid Khan. Happy with the reception the Mushaira got, the Congress has decided to organise similar events with the theme being anti-BJP and promotion of secularism. Source say that the party is planning many mushairas in Hyderabad to take on the BJP, TRS and the MIM. Through his poetry Imran Prathapgarhi touched upon TRS governments promises of 2BHK housing, super-speciality hospitals in all the Assembly Constituencies, 12 per cent reservations for Muslim etc. The poet said that the TRS government failed to fulfil its promises and emphases that a vote to the TRS was nothing but a vote to the BJP. He also mentioned the friendship between TRS president K. Chandrasekhar Rao and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and called upon the people to defeat both the TRS in Telangana and Modi at the Centre to preserve secularism and Hindu-Muslim unity and called upon the people to fight against communal politics and resist attempts to divide the society on religious lines. Imran Prathapgarhi said he had met the Congress president Rahul Gandhi and asked him about the partys stand on the Triple Talaq Bill before it was introduced in Parliament. He said that Mr Gandhi told him that they cant stop the Bill from being passed in the Lok Sabha but would stop it in Rajya Sabha. Mr Sajid Khan said, Imran Pratapgarhi had campaigned in favour of Congress against the MIM in Nanded Municipal Corporation elections in 2017 where the Congress fared well. Mr Maheshwar Reddy hopes to get the Congress ticket from Nirmal and he is now focusing on Muslim votes after realising the fact that he lost the last election to Indrakaran Reddy in 2014 as he failed to attract the community. Indrakaran Reddy won on a BSP ticket and later joined the TRS. Nirmal constituency has a population of about 30,000 Muslims. Not for nothing was Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi called the Mahatma in his own lifetime. The accomplishments of Himalayan proportions of this frail Indian born almost 150 years ago remain self-evident to every Indian, except those whose mindspace is corroded by the narrowest social or religious ideas. This is why the exalted appellation sticks for Gandhi in a very natural way even today and is embraced by Indias young of every class, religion and region. Therefore, it would not have mattered if the government had overlooked holding celebrations for the 150th anniversary of the Mahatmas birth (that falls next year). The Prime Minister penned his thoughts on the Mahatma and the ruling BJP attacked the Congress, the main Opposition party, for falsely claiming Gandhis mantle. The apparent reason is that a prominent Congress leader, Shashi Tharoor, has criticised the recent speech of external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj at the United Nations on the ground that this criticism gives succour to Pakistan. On its part, the Congress is indulging in shallow symbolism by holding a meeting of the Congress Working Committee at Gandhis ashram at Wardha, near Nagpur. Ruminating on social life in India, Gandhi said at various times that he saw ending untouchability as the mission of his life. No one worked harder, and with greater courage and dedication, than him to ensure Harijans (Gandhijis word for dalits) and Muslims enjoyed the same animus-free social equality in India as other Indians. The Mahatma opposed the Partition. After the Great Divide emerged, he spoke of himself as belonging to both India and Pakistan. When he was shot dead by a crazed Hindu fanatic who owed allegiance as is well documented to the RSS and Hindu Mahasabha, both of which tried to create an atmosphere of hatred for Gandhi, India and the world were in the deepest mourning. The man had given hope to peasants and workers, Hindu and Muslim, caste Hindu and dalit, women and men. Between 1909, when he wrote Hind Swaraj, to 1931, when he moved the resolution at the Karachi Congress which suggested a welfare society if not a fully socialist outlook, he had travelled a long path toward self-realisation and in understanding his people. Instead of political bickering and propaganda blitzes, as a country we can still launch an inner struggle for genuine communal peace and equal social opportunities for dalits and the tribal people, who are still the poorest of our poor. H10 Mahatma Gandhi believed in the efficacy of pitching the soul force called satyagraha against the brute force of the oppressor and in effect converting the oppressor to the right and moral point Today, October 2, when Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi would have turned 149, marks the year-long 150th birth anniversary celebrations of the Father of the Nation, with events planned across the country and even outside Ijdia. It will also be observed as the 11th anniversary of the International Day of Non-violence. It was on June 15, 2007 that the United Nations declared Gandhijis birthday as the International Day of Non-violence. The UN General Assemblys resolution to effect was based on a Declaration ad-opted at the International Conference on Peace, Non-violence and Empowerment Gandhian Philosophy in 21st Century convened in New Delhi on January 29-30, 2007 to commemorate Centenary of Satyagraha. Led by then Congress president Sonia Gandhi, who presided over the conference attended by 250 delegates from 91 countries, it resolved to nurture the values espoused by Mahatma Gandhi, to pursue truth, to privilege peace and reject violence in all our activities, to respect diverse viewspoints, and to practice the philosophy of Non-violence.. In her presidential address, Mrs Gandhi quoted the Mahatma: Non-violence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mighties weapon of destruction deised by the ingenuity of man. Video-addressing the conference, the great South African leader, Nelson Mandela, remarked: In a world driven by violence and strife Gandhis message of peace and non-violence holds the key to human survival in the 21st century. He rightly believed in the efficacy of pitching soul force called Satyagraha against the brute force of the oppressor and in effect converting the oppressor to the right and moral point. For Gandhiji non-violence was not merely a policy, but a way of life. He observed it in the thought world and deed. For a non-violent man respect for all living creatures was natural. He often said that one who could not give back life had no right to take it. Gandhiji considered hum-an beings as one family, whatever their difference in colour, race or gender. He did not believe in artificial differences between man and man created by religion, caste, community and nation. He believed in the perfect equality of men. Any exploitation of man by man, or a group by group, was contrary to his faith in truth and non-violence. Gandhiji believed that we are members one of another, as Bible puts it. To him, therefore, there could be no conflict between nation and nation and could not be resolved as in a family, without the use of violence. He wanted humanity to find some other way than crooked diplomacy, violence and war for the solution of political and international problems involving injustice, tyranny and cruelty. Satyagraha shows the way. The first condition of Satyagraha is strict regard for truth. Nonviolence is the natural consequence of truth. Gandhiji says truth and Nonviolence are like the two sides of any unst-amped coin. They cannot be separated. However, he always put truth above nonviolence: There can be no comparison between truth and nonviolence. But such co-mparison must be instituted. I would say that truth is superior even to nonviolence. Fur untruth is tantamount to violence. Prophets and Avtars, says Gandhiji, have taught as the lesson of Ahimsa. Not one of them has professed to teach Himsa. Ahimsa Paramo Dharmah (nonviolence is the highest religion) was often quoted by Gandhiji to underline the point that the Hindu scriptures gave as much emphasis to nonviolence as some other religions of the world. According to him Buddha, Jesus, and Mohammed were all warriors of peace. Gandhiji defines a nonviolent person as thus: When a person claims to be nonviolent, he is expected not to be angry with one who has injured him. He will not wish him harm, he will wish him well, he will not swear at him, he will not cause him any physical hurt. He will put up with all the injury to which he is subjected by the wrong doer. That his philosophy of nonviolence is not for the fainthearted and cowardly was time and again stressed upon by the Mahatma: The doctrine of nonviolence is not for the weak and the cowardly; it is meant for the brave and strong. The bravest man allows himself to be killed without killing. And he desists from killing or injuring, because he knows that it is wrong to injure: (Young India, 1920). Nonviolence and cowardice are contradictory terms. Nonviolence is the greatest virtue, cowardice the greatest vice. Nonviolence springs from love, cowardice from hate perfect nonviolence is the highest bravery. (Young India, 1929), Dr. S. Radha Krishnan, the late Philosopher President comments: For Gandhi, nonviolence involves an inner war which requires us to defeat fear, greed, anger and gui-lt. Whenever a great person arises he challenges the spirit in us that we are not just animals but hum-an beings. Gandhis purpose was to advance mans progress towards a rational world order. The great visionary that he was, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru rightly predicted, over eight decades ago, when Gandhi an influence was almost at its peak, the relevance of nonviolence in future. Pt. Nehru wrote in his An Autobiography (1936): I do believe the ideas of nonviolent resistance and the nonviolent technique of struggle are of great value to India as well to the rest of the world, and Gandhiji has done a tremendous service in forcing modern thought to consider them. I do believe they have a great future before them. It may be that mankind is not sufficiently advanced to adopt them in their entirety For the present, the vision may not materilise sufficiently but like all great ideas its influence will grow and it will more and more affect our actions. It is hoped that the Narendra Modi government, which has so far restricted Gandhi to only symbolise its Swachchh Bharat programme, displays the pragmatism to spread the Mahatmas message of nonviolence throughout the country atleast, if not the whole world. But is doubtful if the government has the political will to do so. The writer is an ex-Army officer and a former member of the National Commission on Minorities and a New Delhi-based political analyst He did not believe in artificial differences between man and man created by religion, caste,community and nation. He believed in the perfect equality of men Two of the buzziest words today are constitutional morality. The words jumped onto the national discourse in recent days with a series of landmark judgments by the Supreme Court. One would think that the Constitution is like Caesars wife, beyond questioning. But in the hyper-polarised times that we live in, unsurprisingly it did not take long for the two words to become hotly contested. Those who self-identify as liberals or progressive have lauded the recent judgments by the Supreme Court; many among those who rail against liberals day and night, out of conviction or political compulsion, are upset about what they see as judicial overreach and are pitting constitutional morality against societal/popular morality. It is easy to see why so many social progressives are delighted. The Supreme Court has decriminalised adultery; it declared that any provision of law affecting individual dignity and equality of women invites the wrath of the Constitution, and that its time to say that the husband is not the master of (his) wife. The Supreme Court has also brought relief to the gay community by striking down the provisions of the obnoxious colonial-era Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code which criminalised consensual homosexual acts between adults. The court said that Section 377 IPC is irrational, indefensible and arbitrary. The majoritarian views and popular morality cannot dictate constitutional rights. It has read down critical provisions of the legislation on Aadhaar and its most recent and hugely controversial verdict has led to lifting of the ban on the entry of women between the ages of 10 and 50 the years during which most women menstruate into the hallowed Sabarimala temple in Kerala. This week, new Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi revived the national conversation on constitutional morality by bluntly stating that people are divided more than ever along the lines of caste, religion and ideology, and what one should wear, eat or say are no longer insignificant questions about personal life. Justice Gogois key message was that beliefs must be continuously evaluated on the touchstone of constitutional morality, and this must prevail whenever there is any doubt or conflict. He defined true patriotism to the Constitution as adherence to constitutional morality. Lawyers and judges have in the past weighed into the discussion on constitutional morality with great vigour. In a gentler era, perhaps noting that the Constitution reigns supreme would have been stating the obvious. But the reason why Justice Gogois words are so important today and why it resonates with so many ordinary citizens like this writer is precisely because he has reiterated the obvious at a time when the obvious is being redefined. In simple lay persons language, it means the Constitution must prevail over all other factors because in a country like India, with its huge diversity, there is really no other choice. If we undermine constitutional morality in favour of societal or popular morality, we will be giving into majoritarianism. And majoritarianism as an organising principle will not work in a country of Indias humongous diversity, not only because it risks empowering the mob and denting the rule of law, but also because minorities in this country are in millions, and constant squabbles between the majority and minorities would derail India from living up to its aspirations and development goals. There are multiple lines along which India can be divided. In the face of all the differences that exist in contemporary India, with all its varied cultures, religions, worldviews, theres one thing that holds the nation together and it is constitutional morality. For a society as pluralistic as India to function and thrive, there has to be an acceptance of individual identities. Otherwise, there will be no peace and no stability. Take the most recent and controversial judgment of the Supreme Court about allowing women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple. This has thrown up a tornado of reactions. In several WhatsApp groups that I am a part of, I found women verbally jousting with other women about how true devotees would still not go to the temple if there were in their menstruating years and how women had so many other temples to go to. The same arguments surfaced in television panel discussions and have now been taken to the streets in Kerala. Looking on as an ordinary citizen, a few questions arise in my mind. The Constitution guarantees us the right to freedom of religion. All Indians are equally entitled to freedom of conscience and the right freely to profess, practise and propagate religion. But does the Constitution tell us how to practice religion or whether to practice religion? Who is to define true devotion? So while one persons idea of true devotion may spur him/her to follow the Ayyappan temples rules of e ntry for women and respect tradition, another persons idea of true devotion may lead him/her to think these are peripheral issues and real spirituality is something much more. No one is forcing anyone to do something that goes against his/her faith. Equally, no one should impose their idea of true devotion or spirituality on others. Or take the case of the infamous Section 377 of the IPC. Till recently, India was among a group of some 70 countries which treated consensual gay sex as a crime. Plenty of people still think homosexuality is an aberration, and see it as something abnormal. But by striking down this pernicious legislation, the Supreme Court has made India a member of another group of some 124 countries where same sex love is seen as perfectly normal. The Supreme Court reminded us that social morality or morality of the majority do not trump over the countrys Constitution, which gives equal rights to everyone. Anyone can hold any viewpoint, as long as he/she does not force it on others. As an ordinary Indian citizen, I pin my hopes on constitutional morality because it is the only universally acceptable method of adjudication and management of differences in this country. The buck has to stop somewhere, amid all the raucous squabbles about who is right and who is wrong. And as long as India remains a democracy, it stops at the Constitution. The writer focuses on development issues in India and emerging economies. She can be reached at patralekha.chatterjee@gmail.com Cases before the U.S. Supreme Court seem almost like an afterthought after last weeks political slugfest over the confirmation process for President Trumps second nominee, Judge Brett Kavanaugh. But there are several cases before the high court that are of great importance to the LGBT community as the high court began its 2018-2019 session this week. In fact, this session could be one of the busiest in history for LGBT-related concerns. At least three cases appealed to the Supreme Court ask whether existing federal law protects LGBT people from employment discrimination and a fourth one is on the way; at least four cases could revisit the question of whether a business person can cite their religious beliefs to violate state law prohibiting discrimination against LGBT people; and three lawsuits challenging President Trumps ban on transgender people in the military could wind their ways up to the high court this session. Employment cases The Supreme Court had three LGBT-related employment cases on its list of potential appeals so far this session. Two were on the agenda for the justices September 24 conference but were rescheduled for an as yet unidentified date. The third has been given more time for briefs to be submitted, until October 24. Altitude Express v. Zarda (from the Second Circuit) asks whether Title VII of the federal Civil Rights Act which prohibits employment discrimination because ofsex covers discrimination because of sexual orientation. The Second Circuit ruled that Title VII does cover discrimination because of sexual orientation. The employer has appealed to the Supreme Court. The case involves a recreational parachuting company that fired one of its trainers, David Zarda, after learning he was gay. Zarda died before his lawsuit could be resolved but his sister has pursued his claim. The Second Circuit covers New York, Connecticut, and Vermont.) Only one other circuit (the Seventh, which includes Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin) has made a similar ruling (in Hively v. Ivy Tech). Bostock v. Clayton County (from the 11th Circuit), similar to Altitude Express, asks whether Title VII can prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation. The difference is that, in Altitude Express, the employee won the lower court decision and, in Horton, the employer won. So while LGBT people in New York, Connecticut, and Vermont (and the Seventh Circuit states) can seek protection under Title VII, LGBT people in Georgia, Florida, and Alabama cannot. This split in the circuits makes it more probable that the Supreme Court will get involved. In this case, a child services coordinator for 10 years for Clayton County, Georgia, was fired for alleged mismanagement after his supervisor learned he played in a gay softball league. Harris Funeral v. EEOC (from the 6th Circuit) asks whether Title VIIs because of sex language covers discrimination because of gender identity and whether another federal law, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) provides an exemption from Title VII if the employer claims the discrimination is based on religious beliefs. The Sixth Circuit ruled that Title VII does protect transgender employees and that the religious beliefs of the employer were not substantially burdened by complying with Title VII. The case involved a funeral home that fired a long-time employee after the employee began transitioning. The employee, Aimee Stephens, first took her complaint to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which ruled in her favor. At least one more Title VII-sexual orientation case is pending in lower courts: In the Eighth Circuit, Lambda Legal has Horton v. Midwest Geriatric. Public accommodations cases The last Supreme Court session essentially balked at ruling on a case about whether a business can refuse to serve customers because of their sexual orientation. The case was Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado. By dispensing with the case on procedural grounds, it put the issue off to another day. That day may come this session, and there are several cases that might provide the opportunity. Aloha Bed & Breakfast v. Cervelli (Hawaii Supreme Court): This case, which has until mid-October to file an appeal with the U.S. Supreme Court, asks whether the operator of a bed and breakfast can refuse to rent rooms to guests based on their sexual orientation. A state appeals court said no; the Hawaii Supreme Court refused further appeal. The Aloha B&B offers guest rooms for rent in a residential section of Oahu that includes a bay popular for snorkeling. A lesbian couple from California sought to rent a room there because they were visiting friends nearby. When Diane Cervelli called the B&B to make the reservation and mentioned her partners name, the operator of the B&B asked whether the two women were lesbians. Cervelli answered yes. The B&B operator said, Were strong Christians. Im very uncomfortable in accepting the reservation from you, and hung up. Lambda Legal helped the couple file suit, and the state courts found the operator violated the state law prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation in public accommodations. The B&B argued that, because it operates out of the owners personal residence, it should not be subject to the public accommodations law. And it argued that the non-discrimination law violated the owners right to free exercise of religion. But the state courts said that, if the B&B is open to the public, it must abide by the state law governing public accommodations. And the courts said the state non-discrimination law was neutral on the matter of religion and does not interfere in a substantial way with the owners religious exercise. At least three other cases testing the strength of non-discrimination laws against the claims of religious exercise are making their ways through state courts at the moment in Washington State, Oregon, and Colorado. Each involves a bakery refusing to sell a cake to a person because the persons sexual orientation or gender identity. The Colorado case involves the Masterpiece Cakeshop that won a temporary reprieve from a Supreme Court ruling this year that found the state human rights commission had demonstrated hostility for baker Jack Phillips claim that religious beliefs prompted him to refuse to sell a cake for a same-sex couples wedding reception. The current lawsuit against him is for refusing to sell an attorney, Autumn Scardina, a cake to celebrate her birthday and anniversary of coming out as transgender. Importantly, Scardina did not ask for the cake to include any message just that it be pink on the inside and blue on the outside. Phillips refused, saying his religious beliefs prevented him from doing so. The Colorado Civil Rights Commission has ruled Phillips to be in violation of state discrimination laws. The Alliance Defending Freedom, the anti-LGBT group that represented Phillips in his first case, has once again filed a federal lawsuit (Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Elenis on August 14), claiming the Commission is exhibiting hostility to Phillips religious beliefs. Parties are due before a magistrate on October 24. Transgender people in the military At least three lawsuits are challenging whether President Trumps 2017 directive against allowing transgender people to serve in the military can stand. Three federal district courts have blocked the administration from implementing the ban, and the Trump administration has re-worded its ban in an effort to make it more palatable to the courts. But opponents say its still a ban on transgender people serving in the military. All three cases are in federal district court and, thus, may not make it through the appellate courts in time to reach the U.S. Supreme Court this session. However, the Trump administration made an appeal to the Supreme Court on one case already: Karnowski v. Trump, brought by Lambda Legal. In mid-September the administration asked the Supreme Court to stay an order of the U.S. District Court in Washington State that the Trump administration produce documents related to presidential communication related to development of the ban. One day later, it withdrew the request, noting the Ninth Circuit had granted the stay. In U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, a judge has ruled that a challenge brought by the National Center for Lesbian Rights and Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders may go forward (Jane Doe v. Trump). And in U.S. District Court for Maryland, the ACLU has a challenge, Stone v. Trump. The lawsuits argue that the proposed ban would violate the rights to equal protection and due process for existing and prospective transgender members of the military. Discrimination in education A former student at the University of North Carolina has filed a petition with the Supreme Court, asking whether the school may have violated Title IX of the Educational Amendments Act, which prohibits discrimination based on gender. Kenda Kirby, now living in Oklahoma, wrote the petition herself and says her former school took adverse action against her after she attended a gay rights rally and supported Democrat Hillary Clinton for president. 'We protect Saudi Arabia. Would you say they're rich. And I love the King, King Salman. But I said 'King - we're protecting you - you might not be there for two weeks without us - you have to pay for your military,' Trump said to cheers at a rally in Southaven, Mississippi. (Photo: AP) Southaven, Mississippi: President Donald Trump made an undiplomatic remark about close ally Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, saying he warned Saudi Arabia's King Salman he would not last in power "for two weeks" without the backing of the US military. "We protect Saudi Arabia. Would you say they're rich. And I love the King, King Salman. But I said 'King - we're protecting you - you might not be there for two weeks without us - you have to pay for your military,'" Trump said to cheers at a rally in Southaven, Mississippi. Trump did not say when he made those remarks to the Saudi monarch. Despite the harsh words, the Trump administration has had a close relationship with Saudi Arabia, which it views as a bulwark against Iran's ambitions in the region. Trump made Saudi Arabia his first stop on his maiden international trip as president last year. Trump called King Salman on Saturday and they discussed efforts being made to maintain supplies to ensure oil market stability and global economic growth, according to Saudi state news agency SPA. Saudi Arabia is the world's top oil exporter and the de facto leader of OPEC, which has been criticized by Trump for high oil prices. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York last month, Trump said OPEC members were "as usual ripping off the rest of the world." "We defend many of these nations for nothing, and then they take advantage of us by giving us high oil prices. Not good. We want them to stop raising prices, we want them to start lowering prices," Trump said. He has also pressed other US allies, such as Japan, South Korea and Germany, to take more of the financial burden of their defence. Trump, in his address to his supporters in Mississippi raised doubts over the allegations of Ford, as a result of which the lives of Kavanaugh is in tatters, he said. (Photo: AFP | File) Washington: US President Donald Trump publicly mocked Christine Blasey Ford, the professor who has alleged that she was sexually assaulted by his Supreme Court nominee Justice Brett Kavanaugh some 36 years ago. Impersonating Ford, who testified before a Senate Judiciary Committee last week with her allegations, Trump on Tuesday said that the woman accuser only remembered that she had one beer and nothing else. Trump, in his address to his supporters in Mississippi raised doubts over the allegations of Ford, as a result of which the lives of Kavanaugh is in tatters, he said. "36 years ago, this happened," said the president as he was referring to the alleged party in a house in Maryland where Ford alleges she was sexually assaulted by Kavanaugh. Thereafter Trump imitated Ford's question and answer session at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing last week. "How did you get home? I don't remember. How'd you get there? I don't remember. Where is the place? I don't remember. How many years ago was it? I don't know," Trump said mocking Ford. "What neighbourhood was it in? I don't know. Where's the house?' I don't know. Upstairs, downstairs, where was it?' I don't know, but I had one beer. That's the only thing I remember," Trump said amid cheering and laughter from his supporters The allegations, he said, had a great impact on Judge Kavanaugh. "A man's life is in tatters. His wife is shattered," he said and alleged that the Democrats are behind this. "They destroy people. They want to destroy people. These are really evil people," Trump said. Yameens spokesman Ibrahim Muaz Ali denied any wrongdoing, saying that Yameen maintained a separate account to receive election campaign funding. (Photo: PTI | File) Male: The outgoing strongman president of the Maldives, Abdulla Yameen, faced allegations Tuesday that he received nearly USD 1.5 million in illicit payments just before his surprise election defeat last month. The allegations that two cash deposits were made into a private account in Yameens name came to light after local media reported that the Maldivian Monetary Authority (MMA) had lodged a police complaint. Yameens spokesman Ibrahim Muaz Ali denied any wrongdoing, saying that Yameen maintained a separate account to receive election campaign funding. He did not confirm or deny the amount of any deposits received. Muaz said the governor of the MMA had assured the president that there was no wrongdoing and that the banks Financial Intelligence Unit had withdrawn their complaint to the police. President Yameen assures the people that his campaign had been conducted in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations, Muaz said, adding that no campaign funds had been received from abroad. Yameen relied heavily on China for political and financial support in the nation of 340,000 Sunni Muslims, triggering concern in India, which has long been influential in the Maldivian politics and the economy. Beijing has been competing with New Delhi for influence in the region. In neighbouring Sri Lanka, police are investigating allegations that former president Mahinda Rajapakse received millions of dollars in campaign funds from a Chinese state owned company in 2015. Just before the Maldives September 23 election, a corruption watchdog alleged that Yameen accepted lavish gifts from a billionaire developer who was later leased two islands in the paradise archipelago without bidding for them. Yameen, whose five-year tenure was marked by the jailing of all his key rivals, has denied any involvement in the alleged island-leasing scam, which first came to light in a 2016 investigation by the Al Jazeera television channel. The main opposition candidate, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who defeated Yameen in last months election, has asked him to ensure a smooth transition when he is due to take over on November 17. The survey of 25 nations by the Pew Research Centre also showed that respondents from across the globe have less confidence in Trumps ability to lead than they do in Russias Vladimir Putin and Chinas Xi Jinping. (Photo: File) Berlin: The image of the United States has deteriorated further among its traditional allies after a year in which president Donald Trump ratcheted up his verbal attacks on countries like Canada and Germany, a leading survey showed. The survey of 25 nations by the Pew Research Centre also showed that respondents from across the globe have less confidence in Trumps ability to lead than they do in Russias Vladimir Putin and Chinas Xi Jinping. Since taking office in January 2017, Trump has pulled the United States out of international agreements like the Paris climate accord and Iran nuclear deal, cozied up to authoritarian leaders like Putin and North Koreas Kim Jong Un, and criticised his neighbours and NATO allies. In June, after a G7 summit in Canada, Trump refused to sign a joint statement with Americas allies, deriding his host, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, as very dishonest and weak. He has repeatedly attacked Germany for its trade surplus, low defence spending and reliance on Russian gas. Last week, when giving a speech at the UN General Assembly in New York, Trump drew laughter from world leaders when he claimed to have achieved more in his two years in the White House than almost any other US administration in history. The survey showed that Americas image, which took a big hit in 2017, Trumps first year in office, continued to deteriorate in many countries in 2018, particularly in Europe. Just 30 per cent of Germans have a favourable view of the United States, down five points from last year and the lowest score in the entire survey after Russia, on 26 per cent. Only 38 per cent of French and 39 per cent of Canadians said they had a positive view of the United States, both down from last year. Mexico inched up slightly to 32 per cent. Faith in Merkel highest The countries with the most positive views of the United States were Israel, the Philippines and South Korea, all at 80 per cent or above. Across all countries, the US got positive marks, with 50 per cent saying they had a positive view, compared to 43 per cent who were negative. Just 7 per cent of Spanish, 9 per cent of French and 10 per cent of Germans said they had confidence in Trumps leadership. In 20 of the 25 countries surveyed, a majority said they had no confidence in Trump. Across all countries, an average of 27 per cent of respondents said they had confidence in Trump. That compared unfavourably to Putin, on 30 percent, and Xi, on 34 per cent. German chancellor Angela Merkel was the only leader in which a majority of those surveyed, 52 per cent, expressed confidence. French president Emmanuel Macron was just behind at 46 per cent. Despite Trumps low ratings, 63 per cent of respondents said the world was better off with the United States as the leading power, compared to 19 per cent who preferred China in that role. Allies took a dim view of the Trump administrations position on civil liberties, with majorities in Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia and Mexico saying the government did not respect the personal freedoms of its people. Reflecting Trumps America First stance, substantial majorities in 19 of the 25 countries surveyed said the United States did not take their interests into account when making international policy. The survey was conducted between May and August, and based on interviews with over 900 people in each of the surveyed countries. Stockholm: American scientists Frances Arnold and George Smith and British researcher Gregory Winter won the Nobel Chemistry Prize on Wednesday for applying the principles of evolution to develop enzymes used to make everything from biofuels to medicine. Arnold, just the fifth woman to clinch chemistrys most prestigious honour, won one half of the nine million Swedish kronor (about $1.01 million or 870,000 euros) award, while Smith and Winter shared the other half. The 2018 Nobel Laureates in Chemistry have taken control of evolution and used it for purposes that bring the greatest benefit to humankind, the Swedish Royal Academy of Sciences said. The trio used the same principles of evolution genetic change and selection to develop proteins used in a range of fields. They have applied the principles of Darwin in test tubes. They have used the molecular understanding we have of the evolutionary process and recreated the process in their labs, the head of the Academys Nobel Chemistry committee, Claes Gustafsson, told reporters. They have been able to make evolution many 1000s of times faster and redirect it to create new proteins. Arnold, 62, who has survived breast cancer and is a single mother to three sons, is a professor of chemical engineering at the California Institute of Technology. Her method of rewriting DNA to mimic evolution has helped solve problems such as replacing toxic chemicals like fossil fuels. As a result, renewable resources like sugar cane are being converted into biofuels. More environmentally friendly chemical substances are being developed, improving everyday products such as laundry and dishwashing detergents to enhance their performance in cold temperatures. The most beautiful, complex, and functional objects on the planet have been made by evolution. We can now use evolution to make things that no human knows how to design, Arnold said in 2016. Evolution is the most powerful engineering method in the world, and we should make use of it to find new biological solutions to problems, she said. Gregory Winter Instead of pumping oil out of the ground for making gasoline, now we can use sunlight stored in plants. Curing cancer Meanwhile, Smith, of the University of Missouri, and Winter, a 67-year-old genetic engineer at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology at Cambridge, developed an elegant method known as phage display, where a bacteriophage a virus that infects bacteria can be used to evolve new proteins, the jury said. Pharmaceuticals for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel diseases have resulted from their research, as well as anti-bodies that can neutralise toxins, counteract autoimmune diseases and cure metastatic cancer. The discoveries by George Smith and Greg Winter are having an enormous impact, particularly on medicine with antibody drugs that have fewer side effects and are more efficient, Goran Hansson, the head of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, told reporters. Alfred Nobel, who created the prizes in his will, was himself a chemist, and devised his famed awards in part to atone for inventing dynamite. Arnold, Smith and Winter will receive their prize from Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf at a formal ceremony in Stockholm on December 10, the anniversary of Nobel's 1896 death. Last year, the honour went to Jacques Dubochet, Joachim Frank and Richard Henderson for pioneering cryo-electron microscopy, a method for imaging tiny, frozen molecules. Earlier this week, two immunologists, James Allison of the US and Tasuku Honjo of Japan, won the Nobel Medicine Prize for research into how the body's natural defences can fight cancer. A trio of physicists Arthur Ashkin of the US, Gerard Mourou of France and Donna Strickland of Canada -- shared the Physics Prize for inventing optical lasers now used in corrective eye surgery and in industry. The peace prize will be announced on Friday, and the economics prize will wrap up the Nobel season on Monday, October 8. For the first time since 1949, the Swedish Academy has postponed the announcement of the 2018 Nobel Literature Prize until next year, amid a #MeToo scandal and bitter internal dispute that has prevented it from functioning properly. A Syrian man has been arrested after almost seven months stranded in a Malaysian airport, an official said on Tuesday, in a bizarre saga that drew comparisons with hit movie "The Terminal". Hassan al-Kontar had been stuck at the budget terminal of Kuala Lumpur International Airport since March 7, when officials refused to let him board a flight to Ecuador. Kontar, reportedly sought by authorities in his homeland for failing to serve in the military, was also refused entry into Cambodia and not allowed back into Malaysia due to visa issues. The 36-year-old was left stranded in the terminal, surviving on donated airline meals and washing in the toilets. He made repeated appeals in a series of YouTube videos, lamenting that rights groups had refused him help and no one would take him in. But Malaysian immigration chief Mustafar Ali said that police had finally decided to arrest Kontar and remove him from the airport Monday, as his posts -- which were garnering growing media attention -- had embarrassed Malaysia. "His statements on social media shamed Malaysia," Ali was cited as saying by official news agency Bernama. "(He) was arrested yesterday because he was in a restricted area without a boarding pass." Officials will now work with the Syrian authorities to get him deported to his homeland, he said. A civil war has been raging in Syria for the past seven years, leaving more than 350,000 people dead. Kontar's case is reminiscent of the 2004 film "The Terminal," in which Tom Hanks plays a man who finds himself stuck in a New York airport after his government collapses, rendering his papers useless. Reports say Kontar had been working in the United Arab Emirates but was deported to Malaysia in January 2017. However, he overstayed a three-month tourist visa and is now blacklisted, meaning he cannot re-enter the country. He flew to Cambodia but was refused entry before being sent back to Kuala Lumpur airport on March 7. Riding on tractors and marching on foot, thousands of farmers on Tuesday knocked on the doors of the national capital with a demand for better prices for their produce sending the Modi government into a huddle. An estimated 20,000 farmers, led by Naresh Tikait, the president of the Bhartiya Kisan Union, were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border near Kaushambi and Vaishali in Ghaziabad where they broke into scuffles with the police and paramilitary forces, who fired tear gas shells and water cannons to disperse them. Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Minister of State for Agriculture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Uttar Pradesh Minister Suresh Rana held meetings with the farmers representatives. Talks fail After the meeting, Shekhawat drove down to ground zero of the protests to announce certain demands that the government was ready to accept, but was booed down by farmers who expected clear assurances on better support price for their crop and implementation of the Swaminathan Commission recommendations. The farmers had begun their Kisan Kranti Yatra on September 23 from Haridwar and were planning to reach Kisan Ghat, the memorial to former prime minister late Chaudhary Charan Singh, which is adjacent to Raj Ghat. The farmers have decided to camp at the Delhi-UP border on Tuesday night and make an attempt to march to Kisan Ghat on Wednesday. We are not satisfied with the assurances given by the government. We will discuss this and then decide on the future course of action, said Tikait, whose father late Mahendra Singh Tikait had led a farmers protest at the India Gate lawns in 1998 forcing the then Rajiv Gandhi government to agree to their charter of demands. Police use tear gas to disperse farmers protesting at Delhi-UP border during 'Kisan Kranti Padyatra' in New Delhi. PTI Photo Earlier, the UP-Delhi border also the starting point of the first phase of the eight-lane Delhi-Meerut Expressway witnessed dramatic scenes as farmers tried to drive the tractors into three layers of iron barricades put up by the police. Violence broke out as the farmers threw stones at the police who had to resort to firing tear gas shells and water cannons. Some of the protesting farmers claimed that a few Delhi Police personnel had resorted to lathicharge against some of them. The Delhi Police, however, denied the charge, and on the contrary, claimed that seven of their personnel, including an assistant commissioner of police, were injured. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Left parties threw their weight behind the farmers and lashed out at the Modi government for stopping them from marching to Delhi. On International Day of Non-Violence, the BJPs celebrations of Gandhi Jayanti began with the brutal beating of peaceful farmers coming to Delhi. Now, the farmers cannot even come to the national capital to air their grievances, Rahul said. SP chief and former UP chief minister Akhilesh Yadav blamed the Modi government for not fulfilling the promises made to farmers. The farmers have all the right to protest. We strongly support their movement, said Yadav. Delhi belongs to everyone. Farmers cannot be stopped from visiting Delhi. The farmers demands are justified. Their demands should be accepted, Kejriwal said. The Left parties issued a joint statement condemning the use of violence to quell the farmers protests. We condemn the brutal attack on protesting farmers on the outskirts of Delhi. This police action, once again, demonstrates the anti-kisan attitude of the Modi government, a statement by CPM, CPI and CPI(ML)-Liberation said. ALSO READ ACP among 7 cops injured during farmers' protest Farmers protest: Cong says 'Badshah' drunk with power The vintage coal-powered locomotive, which made its debut at the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) exactly a century ago, is back in action. The coal-fired locomotive hauled by Swiss X Class steam loco X37384, which was pulled out of service in late 2016, on Tuesday carried 80 passengers for a joy ride from Udagamandalam (Ooty) to Ketti, covering a distance of 10 kilometre. And, as expected, there was a huge demand among locals and tourists to take the joy ride which comes at a cost of Rs 420 plus GST for first class and Rs 300 plus GST for the second class. The coal-powered steam engine, which chugged below the blue sky and along the lush green mountains, offered breath-taking views of mother nature to its commuters for decades together. It enjoys a cult status among Ooty's residents, who vehemently opposed displaying it at the railway station in the picturesque tourist town. Over the past 6 years, the Swiss-made coal-fired locomotives used to haul trains in NMR since its inception in 1899, were gradually replaced by the indigenous furnace-oil fired steam locomotives. However, this lone coal-fired steam loco which was fit enough to haul the train was in use till late 2016. The coal-fired locomotive, which underwent massive overhaul, was brought to Ooty a year back to be placed as an exhibit at the railway station yard. However, the Heritage Steam Chariot Trust (HSCT), an organisation of the NMR aficionados, made several representations to the Railway Board seeking re-induction of the engine into service, at least for joy rides. With the first joy ride receiving tremendous response, the Railways plan to organise such trips for tourists on national holidays like Gandhi Jayanti, which fell on Tuesday this year, and during peak summer season. The loco, which was made in 1914 was inducted into service in NMR in 1918 and is the only surviving coal-fired locomotive on the NMR. K Natarajan, founder of HSCT, told DH that the idea of a joy ride was first proposed by his organisation as it would provide a vintage experience for tourists who flock to Ooty. The train passes through three tunnels before it reaches Ketti station, located 10 km from Ooty. We are happy that our suggestion was considered positively, he said. Natarajan also said that the HSCT has proposed to the Railways to extend the joy ride to include a trip to Ullada village, very close to the Ketti station, to help tourists interact with villagers, which is known for its ethnic sweets and snacks. Ullada is a picturesque village that has featured in many Indian movies and instead of just making it a joy ride, the Railways should allow passengers to visit the village and enjoy its beauty along with its residents, he said. The mountain rail is very famous among tourists who flock to the Nilgiris for their holiday, the hill station also hosts thousands of foreign tourists every year. Theyre Back! Thursday, 10/4 Television Will and Graceand Jack and Karenare back for their second season (or 10th, if youre really counting) tonight. Head down to Rosies Bar & Grill, 2449 Wilton Dr. in Wilton Manors, for the official viewing party sponsored by local affiliate WTVJ NBC 6. The event, cosponsored by Broward House and CAN Community Health, will feature giveaways and more. The fun starts at 7 p.m. For more info, go to NBCMiami.com. Credit: NBC Universal. Thursday, 10/4 History The Nathan D. Rosen Gallery at the Levis Jewish Community Center, 21050 95th Ave. in Boca Raton, opens its fall exhibition, Celebrating Israel at 70, through Nov. 7 in the Sandler Center. This special collection of photographs showcases historical moments in the 70-year history of the modern state of Israel as seen through the eyes of its people. Free admission. For more information, go to LevisJCC.org. Friday, 10/5 Television Another RuPauls Drag Race alum, Alyssa Edwards, is having a breakout moment. She stars in Dancing Queen, a new series premiering today on Netflix. The reality show goes behind the makeup and into the drag performers highly competitive Beyond Belief Dance Company in Mesquite, Tx., as he prepares a young class for an intensely competitive season. For more info, go to Netflix.com/DancingQueen. Saturday, 10/6 Theater Infinite Abyss Productions presents an immersive theater experience, Theatre of Terror, Oct. 4 Nov. 3 at the Foundry at Wilton Theater Factory, 2306 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. You wont be sitting for long as the cast guides audiences through a series of interactive vignettes inspired by creepy classic movie thrillers. Admission is limited to 25 persons at each performance. Tickets $25 at Infinite-Abyss.org. Sunday, 10/7 Arts Celebrate Orgullo, the month-long festival presented by Unity Coalition/Coalicion Unida, today at 2 p.m. with fabulous drag star Dang Ho onboard the Art Diva bus tour. Shell entertain as the bus takes riders to local art exhibitions and galleries. Your $40 ticket includes admissions, cocktails and light fare. Tour begins at Douglas Road metro station, 37th Ave. and U.S. 1 in Miami. Tickets at CelebrateOrgullo.com. Monday, 10/8 Nightlife Extend your weekend just one more night and head over to the Palace, 1052 Ocean Dr. in Miami Beach. Missy Meyakie Page is your hostess-with-the-mostest for Beer, Burger and Drag. Dine on the beach bars famous burgers, but save room for the real dessertfabulous drag performances and fascinating people watching on Ocean Drive. You cant beat this deal. More information at PalaceSouthBeach.com. Tuesday, 10/9 Film Celebrate Orgullo, Miamis LGBT festival presented by the Unity Coalition/Coalicion Unida, presents Celia the Queen Movie Night tonight at 7 p.m. at Villain Theater, 5865 N.E. 2nd Ave. in Miami. The feature length documentary film pays tribute to the Latina performer who brought the sound of salsa to the world. Stay after for a talk back session with producer Joe Cardona. Tickets are $20 at CelebrateOrgullo.com. As his party hurtles towards state and general elections in the coming months, Prime Minister Narendra Modis farm headache is only growing. Agrarian protests have haunted the BJP-led government from time to time ever since Modi came to power in 2014. Indeed, one focus of the governments effort to contain Tuesdays violence was to prevent farmer deaths of the sort that occurred in a similar protest in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh, last year. The protest at the Delhi-UP border also evoked unpleasant memories of what happened on the Jaipur-Sikar highway in February, when irate farmers seeking loan waivers and the implementation of recommendations of the MS Swaminathan Commission report were denied entry into the Rajasthan capital. The governments discomfiture is heightened by the fact that both MP and Rajasthan, where the BJP faces anti-incumbency, are set for elections by year-end. Smaller Chhattisgarh, another BJP-ruled and poll-bound state, was hit by similar protests a few months ago. Farmers largely belong to the Other Backward Classes (OBCs), a group that accounts for up to half the electorate in most states. The BJPs disastrous handling of various Dalit issues is well documented, and the Opposition is trying to forge Dalit-Kisan unity. Handily, the protests happened on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who championed the Dalit cause, and Lal Bahadur Shastri, who placed farmers on a pedestal with his Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan slogan. The saffron party has a reverse Midas touch as far as farmers go. Rewind to 2015, when the government had to withdraw a contentious land acquisition bill as massive protests erupted at its perceived hostility to farmers. The Congresss suit boot ki sarkar jibe was unusually effective. NCP chief and former agriculture minister Sharad Pawar has been quick to brand the Modi dispensation the most anti-farmer government. Some of this is bound to stick. The BJPs response has been to rename the relevant ministry as the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, promise to double farmers income by 2022, and frame a crop insurance scheme. But the harvest of all this sowing has been unexpectedly bitter thus far. Justice Ranjan Gogoi, the seniormost judge of the Supreme Court, was on Wednesday sworn in as the 46th Chief Justice of India. He was administered the oath of office by President Ram Nath Kovind in a function at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his Cabinet colleagues, including Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, former prime ministers Manmohan Singh and H D Deve Gowda, and other Opposition leaders, outgoing CJI Justice Dipak Misra, Supreme Court judges among others attended the oath taking ceremony. The Ayodhya land dispute case related to Babri Masjid and Ram Temple, the appointment of Lokpal, and the implementation of the National Register for Citizens would be some of the major challenges before the new CJI. Justice Gogoi would also have to take along his brother judges in decision making particularly on the allocation of cases. The issue had rankled senior judges during the tenure of the outgoing CJI, which resulted in an unprecedented press conference on January 12. Justice Gogoi was one of the four judges who expressed their anguish over the functioning of the then CJI. On Wednesday, Justice Gogoi would preside over a bench comprising Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul and K M Jopseh in the Chief Justice's court at noon and would take up cases, including two PILs. Justice Gogoi, who is from Assam, would be the first CJI from the Northeast. His term will last till November 18, 2019. Justice Gogoi's name was recommended by the outgoing CJI last month to the top post in the judiciary. An alumnus of Delhi University's prestigious St Stephen's College, where he studied history, Justice Gogoi is the son of former Assam chief minister Keshab Chandra Gogoi. He got enrolled as an advocate in 1978 in the Gauhati High Court, where he practised on constitutional, taxation and company matters before being appointed as a permanent judge of the Gauhati High Court on February 28, 2001. He was transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court on September 9, 2010. He was subsequently elevated as Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court on February 12, 2011, before being appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court on April 23, 2012. Justice Gogoi has delivered several significant judgments, including Assam's National Register of Citizens (NRC) and setting up of special courts to exclusively try MPs and MLAs. He also handled the matters related to Rajiv Gandhi assassination case seeking the remission of life sentences of convicts and appointment of anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal, among others. In a new low, Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi and AIADMK MLA Anbhazhagan were involved in a public spat in full media glare on Tuesday. The spat broke out after Kiran Bedi allegedly issued instructions to switch off the microphone when Anbhazhagan was speaking at an event on Tuesday. The spat, recorded on mobile phones, shows an angry Kiran Bedi asking the AIADMK legislator, who is also the partys floor leader in the Assembly, to please go and sit after he continued with his speech despite repeated requests to finish due to a paucity of time. #Puducherry Lt Governor #kiranbedi engaging in a public spat with #AIADMK MLA Anbhazhagan at an event in the UT on Tuesday. The spat began after the LG asked the microphone to be switched off when the legislator was speaking. #politics | @DeccanHerald pic.twitter.com/p7olLa1HYV Sivapriyan E.T.B. (@sivaetb) October 2, 2018 An agitated Anbhazhagan is also seen shouting at Kiran Bedi in an equally angry tone. The MLA also refused to go back to his seat despite requests from minister Namasivayam. Is this a government? the MLA shouted at the minister seeking to know why his microphone was switched off. Kiran Bedi was also engaged in a heated discussion with the MLA. Later, she said the MLA was not even scheduled to speak at the event but was given a chance since he insisted on speaking at the event to declare Puducherry to be Open Defecation free. Once the presentation programme was over he came to the mike and went on and on beyond reasonable time when there was a long programme to follow. But he rejected any such written slips/messages and scoffed at requests from the Cabinet ministers and me personally, she said. With all requests going unheeded, Kiran Bedi said she had to intervene. He continued to be rude to everyone present there. Finally, after all that he wanted to say, he left in a huff. This is not the first time the MLA has done something like this. I have witnessed similar misbehaviour of his earlier too where he left in a huff when he asked to respect others time, Kiran Bedi added. ALSO READ: Bedi, Narayanasamy war of words continues People are also against Bedi: V Narayanasamy Bedi interested only in publicity: Narayanasamy Narayanasamy's remark irks Kiran Bedi As many as 20 members of a Muslim family on Tuesday embraced Hinduism in Uttar Pradesh's Baghpat district, reportedly in protest against police inaction in a case of "murder" of one of the members of the family. According to sources, the family members took part in a special 'puja' and performed some rituals in the presence of priests at a Shiva temple in Badarkha village in the district, and were given Hindu names. "All of them embraced Hinduism of their own free will... there was no pressure on them," claimed a district official in Baghpat. Sources, however, said that the family members were upset with the local police, which, they alleged, had termed the "murder" of one of their members as "suicide." The head of the family Akhtar Ali, who was among those who embraced Hinduism, said that his son Gulzar was "murdered" by some members of Muslim community a few days ago. The local police closed the case after terming the death as a case of suicide. "We submitted several applications to the higher authorities also, and requested our fellow community members to help, but nothing happened," Akhtar said. Senior police officials, however, promised to look into the matter afresh after the conversion. Muslim clerics expressed concern over the conversion and urged the community members to take the matter seriously. "Muslim bodies should take it seriously" All India Muslim Personal Law Board member Maulana Khalid Rasheed Firangimahali said here. He also asked the district administration to find out if the family converted voluntarily. Sources said that security has been beefed up in the area and additional security personnel have been deployed as a precautionary measure. Police on Tuesday took a five-member Rohingya family into custody in Vizhinjam near Thiruvananthapuram. The family comprising a 36-year-old man, his wife, 29, their two younger brothers and six-month-old child had arrived in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday morning. The family is in possession of identity cards issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. A police official in Vizhinjam told DH that they arrived in the city from Hyderabad. The family had moved from New Delhi to Hyderabad and from there, to Thiruvananthapuram. They came to Vizhinjam because they were told that they could find work in the ongoing seaport project, the official said. Till late evening, members of the family were being questioned by officials of the state intelligence. The interrogation is still on. They have the refugee cards and this is standard procedure but a decision regarding their return will only be taken later, the police official said. Last week, the Railway Protection Force had intimated officials in Kerala and Tamil Nadu about the mass movement of Rohingya families to Kerala. During his recent visit to Kerala, Home Minister Rajnath Singh had also spoken about the Rohingyas reported southward movement. Over the last year, an estimated 7,00,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled to escape violence in Buddhist-majority Myanmar. After a day-long stand-off with the police, thousands of farmers on Wednesday ended their protest for better prices for farm produce with a visit to Kisan Ghat in the early hours of the day. The protesting farmers were allowed to enter Delhi and proceed towards Kisan Ghat, the memorial to former prime minister late Chaudhary Charan Singh, just after midnight. "We will continue to demand our rights, but for now we are ending the march," said Naresh Tikait, president of the Bhartiya Kisan Union. The barricades at the UP-Delhi border near the townships of Kaushambi and Vaishali were lifted at 1 am on Wednesday following which the farmers proceeded to Kisan Ghat to mark the end of their Kisan Kranti Yatra that had begun on September 23 at Haridwar. The BKU leaders held a meeting with Home Minister Rajnath Singh on their 15-point charter that included better MSP for the rabi crop. The Union Cabinet is expected to consider the minimum support price for the Rabi season on Wednesday evening. Meanwhile, Reuters quoted government officials in a report which said that cabinet is set to raise the MSP for wheat by 6% on Wednesday to 1,840 rupees ($25.17) per 100 kg. The farmers began dispersing for their villages before sunrise prompting police to clear the barricades they had put up at the border. After several rounds of meetings, Kisan Yatra agitation ended yesterday (Tuesday) night and all have moved back to their destinations. Traffic movement should normalise today (Wednesday), Ghaziabad District Magistrate Ritu Maheshwari said. At the meeting with farmers leaders, the government agreed to meet seven demands, including better support prices, seeking a review of the NGT ban on 10-year-old diesel vehicles, and review of the crop insurance scheme. Notwithstanding the controversy over India-France agreement to procure 36 Rafale fighter aircraft from Dassault Aviation, Indian Air Force chief B S Dhanoa on Wednesday defended the 2016 deal, saying that the government had taken a bold decision and it was like a booster dose for the air defence of the nation. Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa also said that the Government or the Indian Air Force had no role in choosing the Reliance Defence as the offset partner of the Dassault Aviation. He indicated that the French company itself had chosen Anil Ambani's company as its offset partner. Offsets are a prerogative of (the) OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer i.e. Dassault Aviation). The Government or (the) IAF had nothing to do with it, Dhanoa said in response to a query on Dassault Aviation choosing Reliance Defence as its offset partner. The IAF chief was addressing a news conference ahead of the 86th Air Force day on October 8. He said that when the Rafale fighter jets would be inducted into the fleet of the IAF, it would be a game-changer in the subcontinent. He added that India would have significantly better air defence capability than its regional adversaries once it would get the fighter jets manufactured by Dassault Aviation. Rafale is a good aircraft. We have got a good package (in the deal), he said. Dhanoa said that the decision to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets off the shelf from Dassault Aviation in a government-to-government deal was an emergency purchase in view of the depleting resources and capability of the IAF. We had reached an impasse (in negotiation over buying altogether 126 Rafale jets from Dassault Aviation). We had three options, first was to wait for something to happen, second was to withdraw (the) RFP (Request for Proposal) or do an emergency purchase. We did an emergency purchase, said the IAF chief. He said that both the 2016 agreement to buy Rafale jets as well as the proposed deal to buy S-400 air defence system from Russia were like booster doses for air defence of India. New Delhi's Rs 59000 crore government-to-government deal with Paris to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets off the shelf turned into a major political controversy in India, with the BJP-led Government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi being accused by the opposition Congress of nudging the Dassault Aviation to choose Reliance Defence as its offset partner, brushing aside Public Sector Undertaking Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The Congress got a shot in the arm in its tirade against Modi Government after former French President Francois Hollande recently said in Paris that the Government of India had pushed for Reliance Defence to be the offset partner of the Dassault Aviation. Hollande also said that French Government had no role in selecting the offset partner as the Government of India itself wanted Reliance Defence in that role. This prompted the Congress to accuse the BJP-led Government of favouring Anil Ambani's company, ignoring the state-owned HAL. The opposition party also alleged that Modi Government had agreed to pay a price which would be much higher than the price that was discussed when erstwhile United Progressive Alliance government was negotiating the deal for buying 126 Rafale fighter jets from the Dassault Aviation. Dhanoa on Wednesday also said that the Government had consulted the IAF at the appropriate level before opting for a deal to buy 36 Rafale jets off the shelf from Dassault Aviation in order to end the impasse in the earlier negotiation for procuring 126 jets from the same company. Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Tuesday said his government would introduce five-day week for government employees if the Cabinet gave its approval to the proposal. I know there is a proposal in this regard. I have no objection in implementing it if the Cabinet approves it. The proposal will be discussed in the Cabinet soon, he told DH. Social Welfare Minister Priyank Kharge had recently written to the chief minister, urging him to introduce five-day week for the employees. He said that the government should cut down on government holidays and introduce five-day week. MEDIA Delaware County has had plans to replace its office and garage complex on Orange Street for more efficiency and parking. The importance heightened in July with the partial collapse of a garage wall. Hazardous conditions compelled county government to close the garage, move departments in the Sweeney and Toal buildings and plan a new facility. County Executive Director Marianne Grace, council Chairman John McBlain and Councilman Kevin Madden came to the boroughs Community Development Committee (CDC) to discuss parking strategies for employees, jurors and the general public with business at the courthouse/government center. Since the problem at the end of July, we have contracted with a company to design demolition. It will be taken down piece by piece, said McBlain, noting there will be no wrecking ball. The current plan will start with dismantling the garage, then the Toal portion and Sweeney building. Meetings have been held for neighbors, although attendance thus far as been light. They are particularly concerned with parking in the relatively narrow streets on the west side of the building. Citron, Amber, Front and Third streets have already been affected by closures for safety. Any reduction in parking will have an impact, they have told the borough and county. Reconfiguring available office space in county-owned facilities and acquired leases (for up to four years) were tackled to continue the countys business. Parking, however, has been more of a challenge, as the borough knows all too well. The loss of parking is considerable. We have advised our employees they can use Rose Tree Park and be shuttled to the courthouse. The response has been underwhelming, said Grace, citing fewer than two dozen drivers using that option. The key, she and McBlain agreed, was the lack of convenience. Their view was that employees wanted immediate access to their vehicle for various reasons. The shuttle time between the courthouse/government center and park might be only 10 minutes, but it was thought to extend the day. Initially shuttles were planned to only run at the start and end of the work day. The appearance at CDC was to ask if the third (top) level of the Olive Street garage could be leased and used by the county, either in part of exclusively. According to borough administrators, the third level (in addition to the more often used two lower levels) was already filled. The change was almost immediate after the countys issues, said borough council President Brian Hall. It seemed apparent the borough was not willing to turn over an entire floor. Council was hearing numerous complaints about parking being eliminated for business employees and customers, critical as the holiday season nears. Grace said she was also working with Broomalls Lake Country Club about its parking lot off Third Street (and accessible), thought to be largely unused until next spring/summer. McBlain said the more remote the parking, the less likely it is to be used. We need to work together for your employees and our residents and business owners, said Councilman Paul Robinson, a committee member, who suggested Springfield Mall and its trolley access as another alternative. He asked if the county could be more flexible with work hours, or mandate that many use the park option. County officials had no immediate answers on those strategies, but acknowledged the need for further outreach to borough property owners such as Media Real Estate. As critical as the parking issue was, everyone at the table addressed the even larger matter of new construction. After meeting with county officials a few times in the last year, development details hadnt moved forward. Hall said that should be happening simultaneous to parking concerns. McBlain agreed. Madden referred to himself and colleague Brian Zidek, both Democrats were newly elected to county council. Brian and I are playing catch. We want to make sure we dont under build or over build. We actually have an opportunity to learn during this process, said Madden. Madden raised the question of a parking garage at Orange Street and Baltimore Avenue (now a surface lot), floated as a cooperative project between the borough, county and SEPTA. The county had been disinclined to be involved. Depending on office building design and timing, that project may see life again. We arent looking for answers today, McBlain said. Hall said the borough would be looking for proposals, other options and use of private properties. Robinson took the long view. We are two months into a five-year process. SPRINGFIELD All Springfield School District parents, caregivers and any interested community members are invited to a meeting starting 7 p.m. on Oct. 8 at E. T. Richardson Middle School, 20 W. Woodland Ave. The topic is one of the most critical facing schools today: Safety. In June, Gov. Tom Wolf signed legislation creating a School Safety and Security Committee within Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. The committee is tasked with developing the criteria school entities are to use in performing school safety and security assessments, issuing a survey to school entities to measure school safety and security preparedness, and administering grants. The district was ahead of the curve, said Sgt. Michael Vaughan. Security has been a factor in renovations and as new construction is planned. The district has maintained a positive and active relationship with the Springfield Township Police Department, and officers routinely visit the schools for walks through and, frankly, as a presence. In May 2018, after careful consideration, the school board approved hiring Vaughan as the director of school safety. Springfield is one of a few Delaware County school districts with a director as a dedicated position, and not assumed by an administrator with other responsibilities. Through a separate and mandated court hearing, Vaughan is also approved to assume police powers if and when needed. Vaughan had served for 26 years with the Springfield Police Department, lived in the district, and was known to the community. That, Vaughan said, was a factor in his decision to take the position. I was hired in Springfield in 1992, having been an officer for SEPTA. I got into police work to be in a community. Thats why this job was so attractive. I raised three children in Springfield; the youngest is still in the school district, said Vaughan. Familiar with the schools and procedures through his police experience, Vaughan launched into extensive planning for the districts overall safety program starting in May. There are guidelines for all staff and students, and we were much ahead of the planning before school started in September. Staff training took place before school opened. We had a session the first day of high school for students, and they were very invested in the process. Age appropriate and site specific training is in progress for all schools, Vaughan said. Its important that all stakeholders be trained as to why we are doing what we are doing. Among other things, we will go over some of the changes made in our crisis plan, he added, encouraging a substantial turnout on Oct. 8. The single, greatest topic of discussion in our schools today must center on the safety of our students, staff and families, stated Schools Superintendent Tony Barber. We are delighted that our school board has dedicated such attention to this initiative, and we wholeheartedly know that Sgt. Vaughan is absolutely the right person to lead us in this department. SALT LAKE CITY The Childrens Museum of Utah opened its doors in 1983 at a humble, 12,000-square-foot exhibit space in the Wasatch Springs Building on Beck Street in Salt Lake City, where it paid $1 per year in rent. Despite community support, a 1993 article from the Deseret News noted the first decade wasnt easy for the museum. It was forced to close twice because of lack of funding. "It's exciting, but it takes time for the concept of a children's museum to build and grow, former Utah first lady Norma Matheson said in 1993. Twenty-five years later, Mathesons statement has proven to be prophetic. Since its formation, the Childrens Museum of Utah now called the Discovery Gateway Childrens Museum has outgrown the old exhibit space, moved to a prime location in The Gateway mall and served 6.3 million people. This year, which marks 40 years since the museums incorporation, the board of directors is celebrating the museums milestones while looking to the future. Early history According to Laurie Hopkins, the museums executive director, the idea for the Childrens Museum of Utah was born when a Utah woman named Paulette Stevens and her husband visited Boston Childrens Museum, which, according to its website, opened in 1913. They thought, Oh, we need something like this in Utah, Hopkins said. And so they decided to engage the community here in Salt Lake City to come up with the idea of a children's museum here. It took a few years for the project to get off the ground, but founders incorporated it as a nonprofit in 1978 and opened its doors in 1983 with help from Salt Lake City, which rented the property for only $1 per year. The museum started with what Hopkins called a few really solid exhibits, like the cockpit of a Boeing 727, a saber-toothed tiger skeleton, a honeybee hive, a sight and sound display and a traveling exhibit from the Museum of Holography in New York. Many of these exhibits are still on display at the museums new location. I think there was a realization from the board back in the late '90s that we just didn't have enough room to do all we wanted to do as a museum, Hopkins said. And so once again, it was a community effort and a push. In 2002, Salt Lake County residents voted yes on Proposition 2, which authorized the county to grant $15 million to purchase a new building for the Childrens Museum of Utah at The Gateway. Three years later, in 2005, construction began, and the new museum opened in September 2006, renamed the Discovery Gateway Childrens Museum. The new location at The Gateway provided the museum with 60,000 square feet, about six times the size of the previous exhibit space. With more space came more exhibits and more visitors. When we left (the first location), we had a pretty robust membership base and pretty dedicated families who followed up to the new location, said Tina Bagley, who has been involved with the museums board of directors for more than a decade. It made the transition easy because we already had people who loved us for our hands-on programming. We just continued to grow from that location, and then having new exhibits was an opportunity to just offer more. According to Hopkins, of the 6.3 million people the museum has served in the past 40 years, 4 million of them have been since the museums move to The Gateway. Recent history Hopkins said that over the past three years, the museum has worked to revitalize their exhibits and programming, work made possible through $1.6 million raised through a rolling capital campaign. They have used the money to add or upgrade six exhibits, host three traveling exhibits and translate the museums materials into Spanish. We needed that money to really refresh the museum and add to it, Hopkins said. Things have changed over the years with education, so we've been able to really upgrade all of our educational cues. In recent years, the museum has also built upon its several community outreach programs, which serve hundreds of thousands of children each year. In 1996, the museum started taking science learning to fifth-grade classrooms throughout the state, a project that extended to kindergarten classrooms in 2015. Although the project started with visiting just 38 schools, the museum has expanded the program to reach 631 schools each year almost all the elementary and charter schools in the state of Utah. The museum also offers an after-school enrichment program with two elementary schools in the Salt Lake City School District. The program will expand to five more schools in the coming year. Once a month, we go on site to these after-school programs and provide an Engineering in Elementary unit of science education, and then once a month they come to the museum to have an after-school field trip, Hopkins said. Besides formal programs, the museum also attends arts festivals and STEM nights for science, technology, engineering and math education. Many studies in early childhood education have shown that the earlier you start working with your children in fun ways and in informal ways to teach them concepts like literacy or math or science it has shown that they perform better in formal educational settings, Hopkins said. So for us, that's the crux of it. It's this idea of preparing children for what's to come in their school life. Looking to the future Although the Discovery Gateway Childrens Museum has several milestones to celebrate this year, they are focused on the future. We have some strategic goals to really become one of the foremost children's museums in the West, and even in the country, Bagley said. A place, when people come to Salt Lake City, they want to come to the museum as a destination. According to Hopkins, the museums principal goals within the next three years are to secure sustainable funding and expand the museums programs to a broader demographic. We really want to continue to provide educational experiences for children in generations to come, Hopkins said. Forty years is a wonderful mark to hit. But we need to be hitting 50 and 75 and 100. If you go What: Discovery Gateway Childrens Museum 40th Bee-Day Bash Fundraiser When: Saturday, Oct. 6, 6:30-9 p.m. Where: Discovery Gateway Childrens Museum, 444 W. 100 South How much: $40 for adults, $20 for children and $175 for a family of six Phone: 801-456-5437 Web: discoverygateway.org SALT LAKE CITY Melissa Dalton-Bradford remembers sitting in a German courtroom in the winter of 2017 as if it were yesterday. Inches away from Dalton-Bradford sat her friend, an Afghan woman in her 20s, whispering her harrowing ordeal as a refugee to a translator, who translated her words from Pashto to German for the judge overseeing the asylum hearing to understand. The soft-spoken woman, with a veil covering her head and her cloth-slipper-clad feet crossed at her ankles, shook as she told her story in its entirety for the first time. She wasnt shaking, I think, because she was afraid, Dalton-Bradford explained, but she was shaking because for so long shed been carrying this story of abuse and her violation and hadnt been able to tell it. In her country, to tell that story would be certain death. The woman, who Dalton-Bradford chose not to name out of respect for her privacy, left her native Afghanistan fearing for her life. One day while walking to school, she was stopped by a half a dozen members of the Taliban. Angered by her educational aspirations the Taliban vehemently forbids the education of women and recognizing her as a the sister of a suspected American sympathizer, the men grabbed the woman, blindfolded her and threw her in the back of a vehicle. They drove her to a remote location all she knows is it was lightless and made of cement and tortured and raped her for days. Eventually, the men drove her back to the location they had taken her from, leaving her to crawl home. Fearing for her daughters safety, the womans mother kissed her goodbye and told her to flee immediately. After thousands of miles of walking, the young woman eventually arrived in Germany as a refugee, where she became friends with Dalton-Bradford. That story says a lot because it's one of many, many stories just like that, Dalton-Bradford said. For Dalton-Bradford, an author and speaker based in Frankfurt, Germany, watching her young friend tell her story illustrated the importance of allowing refugees the chance to share their experiences. It is this simple mission recording and sharing the stories of refugees that drives Dalton-Bradford's nonprofit, Their Story is Our Story, which she founded with five other people from around the world. For me, this collecting of stories and listening to peoples stories is a way of sitting with them in their grief and recognizing them as fully worthy human beings, Dalton-Bradford explained. Dalton-Bradford and others will share some of these refugee stories and a few of their own experiences on Thursday, Oct. 4, at the Salt Lake City Public Library as part of "An Evening of Refugee Stories and Songs," based on TSOSs recently released book "Let Me Tell You My Story" (Familius, 232 pages). Our hope is that as we tell individual (refugee) stories, people will be able to relate to one here or one there and kind of understand whats going on as a whole a little bit better, said Elizabeth Thayer, an Orem-based artist and one of the founders of TSOS. Divine choreography When Thayer started hearing more and more about the refugee crisis in Europe, it got her thinking. She had recently returned to the United States and had settled in Utah after living in Europe for a time with her family and wanted to help. What could I possibly do as a mother of kids in Orem, Utah? Thayer remembers asking herself. Thayer, who has a bachelors in illustration for Brigham Young University and studied illustration at Syracuse University and painting at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, had the idea to paint a portrait of a refugee to raise awareness. She knew a friend of hers, Tricia Leimer, volunteered at refugee camps in Germany and contacted Leimer to see what she thought of the idea. Around the same time, Lindsay Silsby, a photographer based in the U.K., and her friend, Garrett Gibbons, a filmmaker based in Seattle, also had the idea to use their talents to raise awareness about refugees. Through a number of coincidences that the group refers to as divine choreography and with a little help from social media, Thayer, Silsby and Gibbons joined forces with Leimer and her friend from her congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Dalton-Bradford, to use their individual skills to form TSOS and tell refugee stories. We knew that if these peoples stories change our lives, that those stories would change other peoples lives, Dalton-Bradford said. With the help of an Indiegogo account, the group raised funds for their first trip to Germany and Greece to gather refugee stories. They thought they would find at least a few refugees interested in sharing their experiences but were surprised when hundreds of people lined up at the camps to talk with them. They stood in the sun, they waited cross-legged on the floor in tents, to be able to tell their story of why they fled, who they were, what their life had been like before, Dalton-Bradford said In other words, they wanted to be acknowledged as human beings. They wanted to sort of unload this trauma that they had had. More than a name In a lot of ways, Twila Birds life is vastly different from the refugees shes met during her work with TSOS. But they also share similarities and its in celebrating both sides of that dichotomy that Bird has been able to form lasting friendships. We continue to keep in touch with them, said Bird, TSOSs chief editor who lives in Uintah, Weber County. Theyre our friends. We care about them. She often thinks about one of her friends, Rasheeda, a refugee from Afghanistan who fled to Germany with her extended family. As a woman in her 60s, Rasheedas journey was not an easy one. It required thousands of miles of walking up over mountain ranges, in conditions that were almost unbearable for even the most healthy people, but this grandmother had bad knees to start with and she felt going up over these mountain ranges she literally had to crawl part of the way or scoot on her bottom to get over the scheel rock, Bird explained. Yet, despite the difficulty of the journey, Rasheeda carried her Koran and prayer rug every step of the way. Im not Muslim Im a Christian but when (Rasheeda) and I met the first time, there was an immediate bond because we both have faith in God and we respect each other for the faith that we have, Bird said. It was her faith that carried her and its my faith that has carried me through the difficult trials in my life, and we both know that theres power in that faith. Rasheedas story and many more are among those included in Let Me Tell You My Story, a book Bird said is intended to bring a face or hundreds of faces to the refugee crisis. We read about it in newspapers and it feels distant, but it is real for these people, she said. Thayer acknowledged that many including herself before she started her work with TSOS have misconceptions about the worlds ever-growing refugee population, misconceptions that range from assuming refugees are just tired of their country; to thinking they hate Americans; to believing they are terrorists; to thinking they have a choice whether or not to stay. Our hope is that by telling individual stories, people will realize (refugees are) just like you and me, Thayer said. They had homes, they went to school, they had full-time jobs, they had families, support networks, and it just got to the point where they had to leave and most of them did not want to leave but their lives were in danger and their families were in danger. More stories to tell The TSOS team, all of whom are unpaid volunteers, hopes the book launch event at the Salt Lake City Library is just the start of bringing the groups mission to the United States. They will begin gathering refugee stories from the United States and other parts of the world in the coming weeks and months. According to Margo Watson, TSOSs Utah-based publicist and the events organizer, the whole purpose of Thursdays "An Evening of Refugee Stories and Songs" is to show people what TSOS is all about. All of us have burdens. All of us have families, children, goals, dreams, and this evening is about trying to break the barriers and let people know that those barriers dont need to be there, she explained. Bradford-Dalton will be traveling to Utah to emcee and speak at the event, which Watson said will also include readings from the book, ethnic dancers and songs and a display of Thayers artwork. Representatives from the International Rescue Committee and Catholic Community Services will also be at the event to provide insight into how attendees can help provide hands-on service to local refugees an important element to the event, as Bradford-Dalton points out, because it is through the marriage of providing for both the physical needs of refugees and the emotional needs that healing happens. After people are fed and clothed they have to integrate into a new home, she said. Stories give us a bridge where we make a human connection, and thats what these people need. They need to realize that even though inhumane things have happened to them outside of their control, they are still human. If you go What: "An Evening of Refugee Stories and Songs," based on the book "Let Me Tell You My Story" When: Thursday, Oct. 4, 6:30 p.m. Where: Salt Lake City Public Library, 210 E. 400 South How much: Free Web: www.facebook.com Gov. Gary Herbert and the Utah Legislature placed Question 1 on the ballot to determine public support for increased investment in public education. With the backing of the education and business community, this vote will determine our children's future prosperity for generations. Question 1 asks voters to approve a small increase in the gas tax, with 70 percent invested in public education and 30 percent to improve local roads. Should Question 1 pass, the Legislature would enact the increase after the election. For full transparency, legislation has already been prepared so Utahns know exactly what they are voting on. This legislation aligns with the educational values of our state to continue to improve the education excellence of our students. First, additional investment in education through Question 1 would be locally controlled only by local boards and individual schools. Each school would receive an allocation of funding based on the number of enrolled students and would develop a plan within a local school board framework detailing how its allocation would improve student achievement. Neither the Utah Legislature nor the State Board of Education would dictate how schools invest in their teachers and students. This empowers those who know their students best to make funding decisions that maximize our investment. Resources are needed to recruit and retain the best educators, and Question 1 provides local schools and local boards of education flexibility to do so in ways that make the most sense for their teachers. While local schools would have discretion for their funding, they would be accountable to each board of education. Additional funding must be used inside the classroom in ways that are proven to improve student learning and cannot be used to increase district administration or school construction. Should a school plan not lead to greater student achievement, the plan would be revised by the local board to incorporate best practices from surrounding schools. This preserves funding for students and ensures accountability. Last, funding decisions will be completely transparent. The state board and many districts currently have ways for the public to review expenditures, but too often residents comment they dont know how the money is being spent. Through Question 1, school plans would be created with full transparency by community stakeholders, including principals, parents and teachers. Not only would plans be submitted to the board for approval in public meetings, but the plans would be posted on the schools' websites, along with the results achieved. Taxpayers will easily see how each dollar is invested and the difference it makes. In a fiscally conservative state, Question 1 is based on the principles that matter most to Utahns. It will provide a tremendous return on our investment, costing the average Utah driver just $4 per month but investing $150 per student directly in local classrooms. Through local control, accountability and transparency, Utah schools will have the resources they need to retain high-quality educators and provide high-quality learning opportunities to Utah children. In addition to the support of the governor and legislative leadership, Question 1 also has the backing of the Salt Lake Chamber, Utah PTA, Utah Education Association, United Way of Salt Lake, Utah School Superintendents Association, Utah School Boards Association, Economic Development Corporation of Utah and the Utah League of Cities and Towns. While other states struggle to determine how to properly fund education, Question 1 shows that Utahns can come together to address important issues. When tied to a specific plan with the support of local stakeholders, additional investment is shown to increase student outcomes time and time again. Question 1 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to put our children first. Since the surprise invasion of electric scooters on Salt Lake City streets began early this summer, officials have taken a wait and see attitude toward how best to regulate or not regulate use of the zippy little two-wheelers. Now, were beginning to see evidence of public health risks in reported increases in emergency room visits tied to scooter-related injuries. Though the phenomenon may be something of a fad and the city will see use taper off, its clear the scooters are a fixture in the areas transportation scheme, and state and local leaders are going to have to find ways to govern their use in ways that will minimize the risks to those who ride them, and those who might be in their way. Its been interesting to see how cities have reacted differently to the e-scooter influx. In Denver, for example, the scooters were temporarily banned as officials figured out what kind of regulations might apply. They have since been at least temporarily put into the category defined by Colorado law as toy vehicles, restricted for use on sidewalks only. Here, officials have chosen to regard them in ways similar to bicycles, which are restricted for the most part from sidewalk use. Though the phenomenon may be something of a fad and the city will see use taper off, its clear the scooters are a fixture in the areas transportation scheme, and state and local leaders are going to have to find ways to govern their use. Nevertheless, a few moments of observation on almost any city block here will confirm that message hasnt gotten through. Its a common sight on almost any given sidewalk to see a scooter or two weaving among startled pedestrians. As of yet, there is no hard data on just how dangerous the devices might be, though there are enough anecdotal reports of abrasions and fractures to justify concern. The Washington Post reported that emergency rooms in Salt Lake City are seeing an increase in visits tied to scooter injuries, including cases of fallen riders and collisions with pedestrians. The University of Utah Hospital said it has seen a 161 percent increase in scooter injuries since the rentable electric variety began showing up en masse in June. The Post article referred to the trend as a perceived public health crisis. The word crisis may be something of an overstatement at this point, but common sense dictates that balancing on a scooter while coasting on a crowded sidewalk at up to 20 miles per hour is fraught with some risk to the rider and others. As such, state lawmakers are going to have to address the scooter surge in the context of the states transportation safety statutes. And the companies that rent the scooters are obligated to participate in that process. Companies should be required as part of the rental process via a smartphone app to warn clients of the safety risks and give them some information as to the rules of where they can and cannot not be used. Some companies already volunteer that service. Noncompliance should result in punative action from the city. Officials in Salt Lake City were wise to initially embrace the wave without unleashing immediate regulatory fervor, as has occurred in other cities. But, as evidence of risk and injury grows, pressure will increase to rewrite the rules of the road to accommodate this unforeseen incursion of a new form of urban conveyance. SALT LAKE CITY Utah Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox offered a positive message Tuesday speaking about election security issues even amid unprecedented levels of hacking attempts, voters can cast their upcoming midterm ballot in confidence that it will be duly and fairly tallied. "We would encourage Utah voters to know that we're on the front lines fighting this battle for you," Cox said. "Know that this election is secure and you can be sure that your vote will count." Cox, whose oversight of state elections is part of his duties as lieutenant governor, outlined the millions in new state funding and federal assistance that's been dedicated to beefing up security measures for this election cycle, including the latest in voting machine technology, upgrades to the voter registration database protections and partnerships that have helped bolster the state's digital resilience to those who would seek to infiltrate and disrupt the election process. In the run-up to the primaries this summer, state digital security experts were monitoring traffic that rose as high as 1 billion daily attempts at nefarious activities, though not all of that traffic was actual "hacking" attempts. Utah Chief Information Security Officer Phil Bates told the Desert News in July that the 1 billion daily incidents his team was blocking were not all attempts to enter the state's systems. "The vast majority of this is reconnaissance and surveillance traffic," Bates said at the time. "They are attempts to try to identify assets in our network. Some of it is just port scans, but some is more complex than that." On Tuesday, Cox noted that earlier this year when he learned that Mitt Romney would be on Utah ballots, he took it as an election security call to arms. "(When) it became clear that a former presidential candidate was going to run for office here in the state of Utah, someone who had been negative in his views of Russia in the past we knew that that alone might make us more of a target," Cox said. "I wrote a memo to my election staff as well as the Department of Technology Services telling them that this had to be our focus this year. That our No. 1 priority had to be upgrading and making sure we were prepared for whatever might come our way." To that end, Cox and his team have distributed some $4.5 million in one-time state funding to counties for upgrading voting machines, and are utilizing $500,000 in annual ongoing funding from the legislature to harden security measures. In addition, Utah qualified for $4.1 million in federal funding via the Helping America Vote Act. About half of that funding also went into new voting machines, $300,000 to enhance state web security and $2.9 million to revamp the state administered voter registration database, which is the only significant digital election asset that is actually accessible via the internet. Mark Mitchell, Cox's director of election systems, said both the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and nonprofit Center for Internet Security are assisting the state in monitoring systems for signs of intrusion attempts. And, Cox said DHS has already stress-tested Utah's systems, which he said got high marks from the security agency. "We allowed Homeland Security to do several rounds of testing," Cox said. "On-site and remotely, we allowed them to come in and search for vulnerabilities and try to find weaknesses in our systems. The good news is we've probably got the cleanest bill of health of any state in the nation." Cox also underscored that the most critical aspects of Utah's voting system, including voting machines, ballot counting equipment and vote tabulation equipment, all operate offline and unconnected to any hackable digital networks. The new voting machines, which will be in use in 21 of Utah's 29 counties, all include a paper record of every vote, according to Cox. He also estimated that 90 percent of all votes cast in the upcoming election will take place via vote-by-mail ballots, which are now being used as the default method in 27 counties. SALT LAKE CITY Utah schools will receive a record $82.6 million in interest earnings from the Permanent State School Fund in July 2019, a 12 percent increase over this year's distribution, according to the Office of the Utah State Treasurer. The funding, commonly referred to as trust land funds, are distributed to every public school in Utah based on a per-pupil formula to fund a plan developed by each school's community council to improve students' academic performance. Trust lands are parcels of land held in trust to benefit 12 state institutions, primarily public schools. When Utah became a state, Congress granted parcels of land to the state and created permanent endowments to support these institutions. Since 1994, the Permanent State School Fund has grown from $76 million to $2.4 billion. "Every dollar we earn through prudent investment of the fund is a dollar in school funding not paid by the Utah taxpayer," said Utah State Treasurer David Damschen. Damschen acknowledged "the great work of the School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration administering trust lands and the solid investment decisions of the School and Institutional Trust Funds Office maximizing the impact of the Permanent State School Fund. Their efforts benefit Utah's education programs now and for years to come." The School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration, or SITLA, works to administer trust lands as efficiently as possible for Utah's schoolchildren, "generating revenue from energy, real estate and surface development on the 3.3 million acres of school trust lands," said director David Ure. Ure said the best part of his job is visiting schools to see how schools use distributions "to create better educational experiences for students." School and Institutional Trust Funds Office, or SITFO, which was created as an independent state agency under legislation enacted in 2014, invests the funds. The office is overseen by a five-person board made up of investment professionals and chaired by the state treasurer. "It is always very rewarding to see the figures come to life and help make a real impact in Utah classrooms," said Peter Madsen, chief investment officer for the trust funds office. Cookie banner We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our site, show personalized content and targeted ads, analyze site traffic, and understand where our audiences come from. To learn more or opt-out, read our Cookie Policy. Please also read our Privacy Notice and Terms of Use, which became effective December 20, 2019. By choosing I Accept, you consent to our use of cookies and other tracking technologies. SALT LAKE CITY For 20 years she has only been known as the Maidenwater victim. On April 20, 1998, the body of a woman was found wrapped in several layers of plastic and duct tape and rolled in a sleeping bag and piece of carpet on the side of state Route 276 about 40 miles north of Lake Powell in Garfield County near Maidenwater Spring. Her death was ruled a homicide. To date, no one has been arrested, and the woman has never been identified. But the only person of interest in the case is convicted serial killer Scott "Hannibal" Kimball. Kimball, 52, is currently serving a 70-year prison sentence for murdering four people, including his uncle. But investigators believe he could be responsible for up to 21 more deaths across the nation, including the Maidenwater victim. Recently, "Dateline" dedicated two hours of its show profiling the serial killer. Because of that, and because of advances not only in DNA technology but also the way information is spread through social media, the Utah Department of Public Safety on Tuesday highlighted its own investigation into its cold case homicide in an effort to generate new leads. Similarities The Maidenwater victim's body was "strategically placed" in an area off the side of the road where the killer knew that it would be found, said State Bureau of Investigation agent Brian Davis, who took over the case about two years ago. The victim was a woman in her late 30s to mid-40s, about 5 feet tall, weighed 112 pounds, with brown eyes, brown hair and a mole on her right ear. She is believed to be of Native American and/or Hispanic descent. She was not homeless and obviously took care of herself, according to Davis. She had received professional dental work and appeared to have cosmetic tattooed eyebrows. Despite putting her image out to the media in 1998, the woman has never been identified. Davis said no one has ever stepped forward to report a missing person who matches her description. Her DNA also does not match anyone in the current databases, he said. In 2002, Kimball was already serving a federal prison sentence for white-collar crimes when he allegedly worked out a deal with the FBI. Kimball would be released from prison and in return act as an FBI informant. According to authorities, the four murders he was later convicted of started less than a month after being released from prison. In addition to currently serving a 70-year sentence for the murders, Kimball is also serving 48 years for fraud and more than five years for conviction on federal gun charges. Just last year while in prison, he was charged with solicitation to commit first-degree murder and attempted escape. Davis said there are several reasons why Kimball is considered the lone suspect in the Maidenwater victim's death. "At this point, there are a lot of similarities between this victim and his other victims, in the cause of death, things that have occurred to their body after death, the way they were packaged, the way they were hidden and discarded," he said. For example, both the Maidenwater victim and Kimball's uncle, Terry Kimball, 60, had their hands tied with rope using the same complex, unique knot system, Davis said. In addition, the woman was found wrapped in a children's play mat that was a replica of the one Kimball's 5-year-old son had in 1998, Davis said. Kimball was later accused of attempting to murder his son, he said. Furthermore, federal investigators and prosecutors at one point attempted to work out a global resolution plea deal with Kimball that included him admitting to all the murders he committed. Davis said that at one point, Kimball was given a list of murder victims possibly linked to him. Kimball went through each one and either denied involvement or would put a question mark next to the victims he might have knowledge about, Davis said. The Maidenwater victim was one of those people with a question mark, he said. But the plea deal fell through and Kimball never admitted to additional killings. Other evidence that points to Kimball, according to Davis, includes: Kimball chopped off the hands of one of his confirmed victims. Prosecutors were physically unable to get fingerprints from the Maidenwater victim. Kimball frequented southern Utah a lot and was "very familiar with that part of the state." Two victims were located in the Book Cliffs area, including the body of one woman in Utah that Kimball led authorities to in 2007. The Book Cliffs are just north of where the Maidenwater victim was found. Intelligent sociopath Davis, who has personally interviewed Kimball behind bars, described the complex serial killer as a "sociopath with no conscience" who likes to play games with authorities. "Scott Kimball, he's a very intelligent person, very manipulative, very controlling. He likes to play mind games with detectives and he has in the past. Even leading them to the body here in Utah, it was not clear cooperation on his part. There were some mind games being utilized by him," he said. "He was a very controlling person, and everything he does has a reason, something that's in it for him. Usually selfish reasons. Some of them are just crimes of opportunity. Some of them had financial gain to it, potentially. Some of it was just control." According to search warrant filed in Logan County, Colorado, in December of 2017, "Kimball told Colorado investigators that he killed 21 people, one of them being a hitchhiker on a bridge near Hite, Utah, in 1998 or 1999. This site is about 10 miles from the recovery site of the unidentified victim. Kimball stated he had been at a family reunion in Bryce Canyon, Utah, close to this time period." In August of 2017, when Davis interviewed Kimball, authorities attempted to get Kimball to cooperate, according to a State Bureau of Investigation report. "We talked about the fact he would likely never get out of prison, and what he would have to lose by cooperating with us. We told him we would consider improving his prison situation, or the possibility of transferring to a different prison if that benefited him," the report states. But after talking to Kimball for more than 2 hours, he denied any involvement in the woman's death. "He stated that his statements from previous interviews, in which he hinted at having involvement, were all 'made up.' He stated he did that to try and help himself, and improve his situation," according to the report. "Scott still insisted he had no involvement, and stated that if we had real evidence, then we should arrest him." Anyone with information on the killing or the identity of the woman is asked to call the Utah Department of Public Safety at 801-887-3890. SALT LAKE CITY One of three men sentenced to prison for killing a 7-year-old girl hit by a stray bullet during a gang-related drive-by shooting 10 years ago has now been charged in a gang-related kidnapping and rape. Frank P. Benavidez, 31, who is currently an inmate at the Utah State Prison in Gunnison, was charged Tuesday in 3rd District Court with aggravated kidnapping, aggravated sexual assault and aggravated robbery, all first-degree felonies. In July 2006, a woman walking near 300 S. Cheyenne Street in Salt Lake City was kidnapped at gunpoint by two men in a car, taken to a field and raped by both men, according to charging documents, allegedly over her affiliation with rival gang members. The woman was then driven to another location and kicked out of the car. The woman, who recognized one of her attackers as a gang member, went "to the hospital where a rape kit was conducted and DNA was collected. The kit was sent to the Utah State Lab for testing," the charges state. On June 5, 2018, a DNA database search matched with Benavidez. Benavidez is already serving time for a high-profile murder that created an outcry from city and community leaders to do something about Salt Lake City's gang problem. On July 6, 2008, 7-year-old Maria Del Carmen Menchaca was playing in the front yard of her house on the corner of 800 West and Fremont Avenue when a vehicle with three gang members drove by and fired several rounds intended for a rival gang member that lived at the residence. Instead, a stray bullet struck and killed Maria. Gabriel Alejandro Alvarez fired the fatal shot that killed the young girl. Benavidez was the driver. Mae Goodman Johnson, then 16, handed the gun to Alvarez in the car. Alvarez was convicted of murder and Benavidez of accessory to murder. Both were sentenced to 16 years to life in prison. Johnson pleaded guilty to manslaughter, a second-degree felony, and was sentenced to one to 15 years in prison. SALT LAKE CITY President Donald Trump signed a bipartisan bill Tuesday to strengthen protections for religious organizations and their properties against persecution. In introducing the measure last year, Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, cited past mistreatment of early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and recent bomb threats at Jewish community centers. "Crimes targeting religious institutions pose a danger to the religious freedom and security of all Americans," Hatch said in a statement Tuesday. Attacks on houses of worship and affiliate community centers are "inexcusable," he said. Hatch worked with Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., to draft the Protecting Religious Affiliated Institutions Act, which unanimously passed the Senate and House last month. The bill clarifies that federal law prohibits threats toward religious institutions. It also modestly increases the criminal penalty for cases in which the underlying conduct causes significant damage or destruction, and clarifies that religious real property includes property that is leased by religious institutions. SALT LAKE CITY Amazon's newly announced $15 minimum wage policy should be a boon for Utah employees of the world's largest online retailer, with almost 1,500 set to work at the company's new procurement center in Salt Lake City and three Whole Foods stores, also Amazon holdings, along the Wasatch Front. While an Amazon spokeswoman declined to detail exactly how many Utah employees will be impacted by the change, the company notes that the new policy, which implements on Nov. 1, will "benefit more than 250,000 Amazon employees, as well as over 100,000 seasonal employees who will be hired at Amazon sites across the country this holiday." Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos, who's long been under fire from industry pundits and some elected officials about wage disparity issues within his company, said the decision came, at least in part, as a response to those disparagements. We listened to our critics, thought hard about what we wanted to do, and decided we want to lead, Bezos said in a statement. Were excited about this change and encourage our competitors and other large employers to join us. Amazon's new Salt Lake facility a sprawling, 850,000-square-foot facility near the Salt Lake International Airport began hiring earlier this summer for new "warehouse fulfillment associates," the positions that represent the majority of the new hiring in Salt Lake City. Those jobs had been advertised by Amazon with a starting wage of $12.50 per hour, an earning rate that fell far short of the state's median wage of just over $17 per hour. While Amazon's new minimum wage pushes the annual earnings figure to $31,200, the rate is still short of a figure revealed in a June report on Utah housing affordability that noted the minimum wage for a full-time worker to afford a two-bedroom apartment in Salt Lake City is $18.85 per hour. Juliette Tennert, director of economic and public policy research at the University of Utah's Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, said the wage change bodes well both for individual Utah Amazon employees and the state's economy. "Given that $15 per hour represents a fairly significant boost above what we were initially expecting, $12.50 an hour, we should see more money filtering through the economy for household spending and additional economic growth," Tennert said. "Its one thing if money is just shifting around in Utah, thats not a net gain, but the fact that Amazon is a global company means that wage bump is truly net new money." Tennert believes the move could also put pressure on other Utah companies, which are paying less than $15 an hour, to make changes to compete for employees in a state that continues to see very low unemployment rates. "With Amazon here, expanding and ramping up to a sizable workforce and then layering on this wage increase, that will increase competition for skilled labor," Tennert said. "I think that we could anticipate upward pressure on wage prices as other companies make moves to compete." Utah House Minority Leader Brian King, D-Salt Lake City, ran into opposition for a legislative proposal in the last session aimed at moving the state's minimum wage, in increments, from its current federally mandated $7.25 per hour to $12 per hour by 2022. The bill's failure reflects another chapter in a perennial effort by Utah Democratic legislators to address low-wage issues. On Tuesday, King told the Deseret News he was pleased to hear of Amazon's announcement and sees it as a smart move by Bezos. "I think it's a good idea, and $15 an hour is a fair and decent wage," King said. "I think Amazon is recognizing that this is a good business move, in the sense that it distinguishes the company as fairly compensating labor. "The people who work for Amazon is why the company has done well. Bezos is brilliant but he didnt do this alone." Given Amazon's size and clout, the move Tuesday is a major victory for the $15-an-hour movement, which has organized protests of fast-food, gas station and other low-paid workers. Already, several states and cities have raised their minimum wages above the federal one. Amazon, whose value topped an awesome $1 trillion in September, has been under political and economic pressure to pay its employees more. But Amazon may also be offering raises out of necessity: With the economy booming and unemployment near rock bottom, employers are having difficulty finding help. Amazon, with about 100 warehouses around the country, will soon need to hire more than 100,000 workers to pack and ship boxes during the holiday season. Amazon and Whole Foods hourly employees who already make $15 per hour will also see a wage increase, the Seattle company said. (Workers in Britain will also get a raise.) The announcement was enough to soothe one of Amazon's fiercest critics: Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. The senator, who frequently uses Twitter to point out the disparity between Amazon's hourly wages and Bezos' vast fortune, congratulated Bezos for "doing exactly the right thing" and urged other companies to follow Amazon's example. Sanders described Amazon's move as "a shot heard around the world." It will have repercussions beyond retailers and will put pressure on any company that operates a distribution center, said Gerald Storch of the retail consulting firm Storch Advisors. "This will lead to a general increase in minimal wages in all industries," he said. At the same time, Storch said, the wage increase will widen the gap between the healthy retailers, such as Amazon, Walmart and Target, and the struggling ones, which won't be able to afford to compete on salary. "The weaker retailers have been cutting costs and squeezing every penny," Storch said. "They are in a very tough place." Amazon, founded more than two decades ago, has expanded far beyond its bookseller beginnings. Despite its dominance, it shares a major problem with employers big and small: a tight labor market. Unemployment in the U.S. is 3.9 percent, near an 18-year low, and Utah's unemployment rate is even lower, reported as 3.1 percent in August. Higher pay for workers is one way of dealing with that. "They'll gladly cross the street and take a better-paying job," said Marc Wulfraat, president of MWPVL, a supply chain consulting company. Walmart raised its starting pay to $11 an hour earlier this year and said it has seen lower turnover among its employees. Target, which announced plans last year to raise hourly wages in steps to $15 by 2020 and now pays $12 an hour, said the number of job applicants rose 60 percent in the days after it increased its minimum wage by $2 to $11 per hour last year. Amazon said it doesn't expect to raise prices for its products to pay for the wage increases. "Customers are going continue to see incredibly low prices every day," said Dave Clark, senior vice president of worldwide operations The push for a higher federal minimum wage will be overseen by Amazon's Jay Carney, White House press secretary during the Obama administration. Amazon won't ask Congress to raise the minimum to a specific number. But "we're sure $7.25 is too low," Carney said. We can't seem to find the page you are looking for. You may have typed the address incorrectly or you may have used an outdated link. SALT LAKE CITY A left-leaning advocacy group is accusing Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, of victim shaming for posting a Utah man's rambling letter about his relationship with one of U.S. Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh's accusers on Twitter. Dennis Ketterer, a former Washington, D.C., television weatherman and Democratic congressional candidate who now lives in Utah, sent a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee describing his association 25 years ago with Julie Swetnick. The committee released the letter on its website Tuesday. Swetnick has accused Kavanaugh of being a "very aggressive, very sloppy drunk" in high school and that he was inappropriate with girls at parties. Ketterer wrote in his letter that he met Swetnick in 1993 in a bar, and thought she was a high-end call girl" because he weighed 350 pounds and "had never been hit on in a bar before." He said they never had sex during their brief relationship, but Swetnick told him she "liked to have sex with more than one guy at a time." Because AIDS was a big issue at the time, Ketterer said he decided not to see her anymore after she "directly stated a penchant for group sex." Ketterer wrote that Swetnick never said anything about being "sexually assaulted, raped, gang raped or having sex against her will." "She never mentioned Brett Kavanaugh in any capacity," he wrote. Ketterer ends his letter saying that based on his experience with Swetnick, "I do not believe her allegations against Mr. Kavanaugh." Hatch's office posted on Twitter a link to the letter on the Senate Judiciary Committee's website. "A Utah man named Dennis Ketterer reached out to the Hatch office this week with information about accuser Julie Swetnick, and her allegations against Judge Kavanaugh," the tweet said, noting Ketterer provided the statement "under penalty of felony." The Alliance for a Better Utah blasted Hatch for the Twitter post. "Considering Swetnick has not even been granted an interview with the FBI, it is befuddling why Hatch has chosen to publicly smear her character in this way," Katie Matheson, Better Utah communications director, said in a statement. "Sharing salacious details about Swetnicks personal life on Twitter is a blatant 'slut-shaming' attempt to discredit her character in the court of public opinion." Even if Ketterers statements about Swetnick are accurate, they don't diminish the severity or credibility of Swetnicks allegations, she said. "We would hope Hatch would be more concerned with getting at the truth than with discrediting women accusing Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct," Matheson said. Swetnick's attorney, Michael Avenatti, called Ketterer's letter "garbage" in a post on Twitter Tuesday. "The letter from Dennis Ketterer is garbage the GOP is desperate. The allegations he makes are false and without any basis. We demand that the FBI interview my client and him, and that anyone found to have submitted false info be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," Avenatti wrote. Hatch spokesman Matt Whitlock declined to respond to the accusation of victim shaming. But he said in a statement that to ensure transparency in the confirmation process, the committee has published sworn interviews, statements and testimony online for the public to see. "The decision to make this letter public was made by the Senate Judiciary Committee, and because the sworn statement noted that Mr. Ketterer first reached out to the committee through Sen. Hatch, we felt it important to disclose," Whitlock said. SALT LAKE CITY Gov. Gary Herbert on Tuesday issued a state of emergency amid concerns of potential flooding in Utah County as the remains of Tropical Storm Rosa move through the state. "Our communities, state agencies and Utah National Guard have been in lock step in their preparations for this storm. I am grateful for their efforts, as well as the efforts of volunteers who have stepped in to help fill and place sandbags," Herbert said in a statement. Communities near areas of burn scars of the joint fires burning in Utah County have been preparing for potential flooding and debris flow as the storm moves into the state this week. "As we continue to work together, we will do everything we can to protect life and property," Herbert wrote. Herbert urged residents in at-risk areas to "heed all warnings and orders" from safety officials. SALT LAKE CITY A Salt Lake City doughnut company is suing its former distributor after recently cutting ties, arguing it was not paid for more than $400,000 worth of the sweet treats. Attorneys for Madbrook Donut Company argue that Frank Granato Importing tried to force Madbrook out of business and out of the space it leased from the distributor. The lawsuit filed Friday seeks damages to be determined at trial. "We thought we had a standstill agreement," said Granato Importing spokesman Doug Foxley. "We were very surprised when they filed the lawsuit." Defendants include Ann Granato, director of the business, and her son Frank Granato, its president. Ann Granato is a Salt Lake County councilwoman who succeeds her husband, Sam Granato, who served as councilman until his death in April and who formerly headed the family business. The doughnut makers allege the distributor has refused to pay it $462,000 and the problems didn't start until after the late executive's death. The companies also signed a contract for an estimated 1 million doughnuts a month to be sold in 300 Maverik convenience stores, the suit argues, and Madbrook took out loans to buy equipment and hire employees to prepare for large-scale production. But ultimately, fewer doughnuts were sold in fewer stores, the complaint states. The disputes arise from ambiguity in agreements that were drafted by Sam Granato and Madbrook, Foxley said. He said the money was withheld from Madbrook and its president, Anna Duletsky, because the doughnut company itself owed the distributor. He declined to give details. Madbrook alleges Frank Granato told Maverik and other chains that the city would shut down and doughnut orders wouldn't be filled, forcing the shop to close for more than a day and hurting the business's reputation, according to the 40-page complaint. In August, Granato Importing issued notices ordering the doughnut makers to vacate their rental space at 1391 S. 300 West, saying items that had long been in place were a nuisance, the court filings say. The company also reported a business license violation to Salt Lake City that stemmed from a years-old incorrect registration by Sam Granato and was later corrected, the complaint says. BLANDING A trio of college law students sat at a table inside San Juan High School's gymnasium Tuesday night, filling out comment forms for one of the most divisive public land issues in Utah. They were there at the behest of their college professor who wanted them to get familiar with the ins and the outs of the controversy surrounding the Bears Ears National Monument. The Bureau of Land Management of Utah and U.S. Forest Service are hosting open houses in San Juan County on a draft management plan for the Shash Jaa and Indian Creek units of the monument, which was reduced in a controversial move by President Donald Trump last December. Those plans are up for public comment through Nov. 15, and the informational open houses provide a forum for input. They continue Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Bluff Community Center, and at White Horse High School Thursday at the same time in Montezuma Creek. People may also comment via email at blm_ut_monticello_monuments@blm.gov, or by mail at 82 E. Dogwood Road, Moab, Utah, 84532. Tuesday's open house drew a steady stream of people who had a chance to visit individual stations on specific components of the plan, such as grazing, recreation, cultural resources and the planning process itself. The plans, while still in the proposal stage, are controversial on multiple fronts for both monument supporters and its critics. Groups like Utah Dine Bikeyah, which is suing the Trump administration over the reduction, say the only management plan acceptable for consideration is one that would contemplate the entire 1.35 million-acre designation made by President Barack Obama in 2016. The organization, according to spokesman Alastair Lee Bitsoi, has already collected more than 300 comments from Native American tribal members who are urging federal agencies to halt what they assert is a rushed planning process. That sentiment was echoed Tuesday night by San Juan County Commissioner Bruce Adams, who said the plans should not have been crafted without input from a yet-to-organized monument advisory commission. The deadline for applicants on that commission ended on Monday, yet the plans were released in August. "This is a rush to get public input," he said. BLM spokeswoman Lisa Bryant said agencies have allowed six months of public input 175 days on plans that will be finalized early next year. While the process has been streamlined through the Trump administration, Bryant said that doesn't mean federal agencies are skipping or ignoring key steps or considerations during the review. The preferred management strategy, which is under fire from groups like Friends of Cedar Mesa, follows the Interior Department's directive of allowing access, visitation and protection of resources, Bryant said. "It is designed to protect those values for which the monument was created," she said. Amanda Podmore, assistant director of Friends of Cedar Mesa, said Tuesday the draft plan moves too slowly on the protection of cultural resources and there needs to be a coordinated strategy for marking which cultural sites are publicly accessible and which are off-limits. "Ninety nine percent of people who come to Bears Ears will be happy visiting the sites that are available to them and that the tribes have agreed to." Some local residents, too, feel strongly that the monument designation has not necessarily been the best thing for the landscape. Kay Shumway, owner of Bears Ears Photography and a Blanding resident, said the continuing publicity over Bears Ears is increasing resource damage. His family has a 125-year history with the sprawling landscape, which is seeing the effects of more visitation. "I would go out there to take photographs, to pray, to spend the night. It's sacred to me," he said, noting changes to dispersed camping regulations because of the uptick in crowds. Many groups and Native American tribes suing over the monument reduction are refusing to take part in the formulation of the draft management plans because they say it perpetuates an illegal action taken by the Trump administration. The 1.35 million-acre monument was reduced to 201,876 acres in a Trump-issued proclamation, which quickly spurred multiple lawsuits by critics who say the U.S. president lacks the authority to reduce monuments. Federal agencies note that in March of this year, five tribes that made up the Bears Ears Intertribal Coalition were invited to participate in an organizing meeting of the Shash Jaa Commission, as was a member of the San Juan County Commission. The tribes notified the federal agencies in writing they would not attend. The San Juan County elected official also did not attend. Friends of Cedar Mesa, while opposed to draft plans it says create a monument in "name only," is participating in the planning process because its leaders say the issue of skyrocketing visitation merits immediate action. The conservative think-tank Sutherland Institute also said the planning process needs to unfold. "Sutherland is pleased to see a discussion with locals taking place about monument management plans despite efforts from outside voices to delay and trivialize this important process," said Matt Anderson, with the institute's Coalition for Self Government in the West. "No one wins by keeping this land in limbo not locals, not the Native American sites and certainly not our public lands. Whatever plans are chosen, we hope it shows respect for and incorporates the diverse needs and values of San Juan County residents." SALT LAKE CITY One of the most hotly contested yet wonky issues in Salt Lake City government is making its way back into a potential ordinance. That is, to allow accessory dwelling units also known as mother-in-law apartments citywide. In other words, an accessory dwelling unit is a second living space built next to or attached to an existing home (in the basement, over a garage, or in a separate building) on a single-family property. Critics worry allowing them could create parking nightmares in neighborhoods, allow uncharacteristic and unsightly designs, lead to disruptive behavior from renters, and lead to code enforcement problems. "There are a lot of people who simply do not understand what's about to happen here," resident Sheila O'Driscoll told the council at Tuesday night's public hearing, the first of two public hearings planned before council is expected to vote on the ordinance. O'Driscoll said she's been living on the same corner for 32 years, and "I love my residential neighborhood." "I'd appreciate it if you would please take a step back, think about the collateral impact that may not be intended but could be negative to single family home neighborhoods," she said. But supporters argue allowing the units could create a new type of more affordable housing, give families the freedom to help provide housing options to their children or their aging parents, and help better balance property owner rights. John Armstrong thanked the City Council for Tuesday night for "not giving up" on the ordinance. He acknowledged the question of why the council would spend so much time on an ordinance that would likely impact very few compared to an affordable housing project that could accommodate thousands. Armstrong described how his 72-year-old mother of five, who has lived in a Poplar Grove for decades, now "finds herself in a precarious predicament," no longer able to afford to live in the home, but unable to afford to move out without leaving the area. She also wants to stay in the neighborhood close to family, so she'd rather build a detached home on her property and rent out her home for more income. "It's for this sweet woman and many others who would otherwise fall between the housing policy cracks, who are hard to accommodate when you're trying to plan for the thousands," he said. "It's for these people that you vote yes It would have a very meaningful impact, even if not a large impact." Over the past several months, the Salt Lake City Council have had numerous briefings on recommendations from the city's planning and zoning staff, after, despite having the votes to pass an ordinance last year, the council sent it back to staff for more tweaking. Now, with one more public hearing scheduled on Oct. 16, City Councilwoman Erin Mendenhall says she expects a vote on the new ordinance soon likely before the Thanksgiving break and perhaps as soon as right after the Oct. 16 public hearing. "I think (the ordinance) is the most acceptable that we've ever had," Mendenhall told the Deseret News on Tuesday. "And the council is the most agreeable (on the ordinance) it's ever been as a cohesive body." Mendenhall also credited the city's planning and zoning staff for doing the legwork after years of grappling with it. "This is a piece of a broad gradient of affordable housing conversations that the city is having, and it's the most granular of all of those because it gets into single properties that already exist," Mendenhall said. "It gives owners the opportunity to create a new stream of income, it allows for people to age in place easier, and it expands density throughout our city." It's also been a tough process, Mendenhall acknowledged, for those neighbors who are worried about the impact accessory dwelling units could have on their neighborhoods, from parking issues to code enforcement problems. "We've taken a long time to hear their concerns and I think to try to find the best remedies through the ordinance to those concerns," she said. "Will it be a panacea for all of them? Certainly not. But from other cities that we've been observing and trying to learn from I feel like we have our eyes wide open about what this will mean in the city." Currently, Salt Lake City only allows accessory dwelling units to be built within a half mile of a fixed transit station. But the new ordinance would allow them citywide, with some caveats. Those include requiring a conditional use permit in the Foothill residential district and for single-family residential zoning districts, the only zoning districts that allow detached single-family dwellings. The ordinance would allow the accessory units in all other residential zoning districts that already allow duplexes, triplexes and multi-family as permitted uses. It would also eliminate a cap of 25 permits per year. As one of the most controversial changes among council members, the new ordinance would loosen the requirement that the owner listed on the deed must reside on the property. Instead, the ordinance would still require an owner occupant but also allow any person who is related by blood, marriage or adoption to qualify as the owner occupant. The ordinance would also allow the owner occupant to be a trustor of a family trust that possesses legal ownership of the property. That portion of the proposed ordinance caused heartburn for some City Council members during a work session meeting last month, the last meeting where council members made tweaks to the ordinance before putting it up for public comment. Councilman Charlie Luke, who has been an outspoken opponent, spoke against the provision. "If I didn't have so many examples of properties in my neighborhood and close to me where parents well-meaningly buy something for their children those often have been some of the most difficult to enforce because it's done for a family member," he said. On the other hand, Councilwoman Amy Fowler lamented it was a "little bit restrictive," noting that though some people may not be blood-related, they may still have people in their lives they consider family that could benefit from a mother-in-law apartment. Fowler then proposed a straw poll to remove the owner occupancy requirement altogether, but it failed. "Here's some good news for you, Amy," Luke said. "You don't need to worry about it, because none of this is going to be able to be enforced anyway, so the minute we open this up, it's going to be a free-for-all and the city won't be able to enforce it." SALT LAKE CITY Those behind the campaign to legalize medical marijuana and some of its most vocal opponents have reached a tentative agreement on what medical marijuana policy should look like in Utah, the Deseret News has learned. But it remains unclear whether the agreement means that those who oppose the November ballot initiative known as Proposition 2 will continue to campaign against it, and just how aggressively those in favor will support it. Proposition 2 remains on the ballot and is not changed by the agreement from both sides; voters will say yes or no on Nov. 6. But the deal means both sides are seeking a legislative solution a "Utah solution" to medical marijuana regardless of the Election Day result. The agreement, made up of policy alternatives to the Proposition 2 provisions that were most heavily criticized by its detractors, comes after private talks with legislative leaders and is expected to be officially announced Thursday. Michelle McOmber, CEO of the Utah Medical Association, which has long been opposed to Proposition 2, confirmed Tuesday that her group was involved in reaching the compromise, which "we feel would be much safer and still be compassionate and answer the needs of patients." McOmber said a consensus was reached "based on the safety of Utah, and the safety of kids, and the safety of patients," and that it drew from "some of the better practices from other states." "It's a process that we really just had to sit down and hammer out," she told the Deseret News. "It's basically a Utah solution." "We have come up with a few modifications of agreement, and we'll be releasing those shortly, in the next day or two," DJ Schanz, director of the pro Proposition 2 campaign Utah Patients Coalition, said. He called the arrangement a "tentative agreement." It's basically a Utah solution. Michelle McOmber, CEO of the Utah Medical Association The Deseret News reported Sunday that Utah House Speaker Greg Hughes was facilitating compromise discussions related to medical marijuana initiative, and that the Utah Patients Coalition, Utah Medical Association, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Utah Senate and pro-initiative libertarian advocacy group Libertas Institute were all represented in those private talks. Affected policies In the preliminary agreement, the initiative's provision allowing people who live 100 miles or more from a dispensary to grow their plants "is completely gone," Schanz said. The agreement, he said, has also "tightened up" the current Proposition 2 provision permitting a person to use a defense to criminal charges for possession of marijuana on the basis that they can demonstrate they would have been eligible for a medical cannabis card despite not having one. "Those (provisions) were meant to be triggers to force the state to implement, and we've come up with some other triggers," he said. Also under the agreement, Schanz said there will be be an effort to "basically keep dosing consistent and regulated." Concerns over the reliability of medical marijuana doses for people purchasing it at dispensaries has long been a significant argument in the Utah Medical Association's opposition to the ballot initiative. Under the agreement recently reached over medical marijuana policy, "it's going to be in medicine format rather than the Wild West format that you see in the initiative," McOmber said. The way the dispensing of marijuana would be handled is also set to be modified under the agreement compared to what is in the initiative, according to Schanz. "There's going to be a hybrid dispensing model, I can tell you that,' he said. "One that incorporates many of the ideas of the legislators, and our (initiative's) dispensary model. A hybrid in this case would be some of (state) Sen. (Evan) Vickers' ideas on having a centralized fill pharmacy. That'd be about the extent of what I can get into." Proposition 2 was written to allow patients with certain medical conditions to qualify for a medical cannabis card allowing them to purchase marijuana legally. Prop 2 future Last week, Schanz said he would "absolutely not" entertain the idea of walking away from Proposition 2 as part of any compromise scenario. He reiterated that position Tuesday, saying his campaign was only working on "modifications that are palatable to us." He said the agreement "isn't a brand new working bill. This is modifications to Proposition 2 we've found acceptable." But McOmber said there are no plans for her group, the Utah Medical Association, to stop campaigning against the initiative. "We are still absolutely opposed to Proposition 2," she said. McOmber, who is also vice president of a political issues committee called Drug Safe Utah that has been raising funds to campaign against Proposition 2, said "in no way shape or form should that be the assumption" that those who have objected to the initiative will rescind their opposition. "There is no doubt on that," she said. "We are not taking a stand back from that." In fact, McOmber said she came away from the discussions with Schanz and others "with the impression" that the Utah Patients Coalition would maintain its position on Proposition 2 but ease off from "pushing hard to get it passed." McOmber says she would like to see the ideas arrived at in the negotiations be put forward and scrutinized using the same process that all legislatively drafted bills must go through. "There were only so many people around the table, right? So others will take a look at it at this point and they'll have input. It's not like it's in a vacuum," she said. "You have two sides that are polar opposites and they come together and they negotiate, but it still goes through the (legislative) process that it goes through at that point." McOmber and Schanz are hopeful the polices discussed in the agreement come to fruition whether voters pass the initiative in November or not. In August, a broad coalition of religious and civic organizations and prominent Utahns, including Utah Jazz owner Gail Miller, former Utah Gov. Mike Leavitt and real estate developer and philanthropist Kem Gardner, came out in opposition to Proposition 2. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which was at the table in the discussions, was asked Tuesday to comment on the nature of the agreement that was negotiated, but declined to give specifics. "We are unable to discuss the particulars associated with recent and ongoing talks but at a future date will be happy to comment on the outcomes," Marty Stephens, director of community and government relations for the church, said in a statement. Connor Boyack, president of Libertas Institute, did not respond to multiple requests for comment about his organization's role in the talks. Schanz cautioned that the agreement "is still tentative" and that the sides are "still trying to work out some of the kinks." But he said that legislators' "buy-in" represents "a huge step in the right direction." McOmber said that "we believe that we've hammered out the hard parts." "How do we actually serve patients?" she asked rhetorically. "A lot of those details have been hammered out to make sure it is more of a medical process." Legislative leadership Lawmakers could be called into special session after the election in November to consider the agreement. The initiative has serious challenges to it. I think most people recognize that. Senate Majority Whip Stuart Adams, R-Layton Utah House Speaker Greg Hughes, R-Draper, and Vickers, R-Cedar City, have been the Legislatures point men in the private talks. Neither returned calls for comment Tuesday. Senate Majority Whip Stuart Adams, R-Layton, said he wanted to defer to them for any announcement of the agreement, but said legislators and others have worked hard to reach out and find common ground between those for and against Proposition 2. I dont know that were totally done, Adams said. Discussions about the plan are continuing as lawmakers aim for a special session in November, he said. The initiative has serious challenges to it. I think most people recognize that, Adams said, adding he hopes it fails. The initiative would really makes a mess out of recently passed state laws on terminally ill patients and hemp, he said. SALT LAKE CITY Allegations rejected 30 years ago following multiple law enforcement investigations resurfaced Wednesday in a federal lawsuit filed against a daughter and son-in-law of the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The couple was identified only as John and Jane Doe in the suit, but an attorney for the defendants identified them as Brenda and Richard Miles, the daughter and son-in-law of President Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often called the Mormon church. The lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court in Utah by six unnamed plaintiffs, all the children or stepchildren of a man who died by suicide in 1995. They revived allegations that rocked a Bountiful neighborhood in 1986 when they said they were abused as part of a sex ring of adults and babysitters. Three of the plaintiffs allege that the plaintiffs' father and the Mileses were part of a group who sexually assaulted them as children when their ages ranged from newborn to 8 years old. The alleged assaults took place at "touching parties" at homes in the Mueller Park area of Bountiful, according to the complaint. Within hours on Wednesday, the Mileses filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit. The motion said the plaintiffs' claims are "false and horrific" and are barred by the statute of limitations. In a statement, the Mileses described what they called "long-ago debunked accusations" as "patently false and deeply, utterly offensive." "Child abuse is evil, but so is a false accusation of child abuse," said the Mileses' attorney, Jim Jardine, of the law firm Ray Quinney & Nebeker. Idaho attorney Craig Vernon filed the complaint three days before the church's semi-annual general conference, alleging a coverup by the church, which it denied. Vernon, of the law firm James, Vernon and Weeks in Coeur d'Alene, also represents McKenna Denson in another high-profile lawsuit against the church. Vernon did not respond to multiple requests for comment Wednesday. Under Utah federal court rules, he has 28 days to respond to the Mileses' motion to dismiss. The allegations The lawsuit included nine exhibits. Six are declarations made by the children or stepchildren. The other three are from their mothers and a psychiatrist who treated the children in 1986. Three children allege in signed exhibits that they remember being sexually assaulted in the touching parties by their father, their paternal grandmother, the Mileses, a teenage babysitter and numerous others. Two stepchildren say they were raped by their stepfather. One child and one stepchild say they don't remember being assaulted but were told they were by their siblings, parents and therapists. A seventh child provided an exhibit, but she is not listed as a plaintiff in the suit. The suit graphically details repeated sexual assaults and rape of the plaintiffs when they were young children. "We have never abused these children or anyone else," the Mileses said in their statement. "To do so would be contrary to our beliefs, our principles, our character and the way we have always lived our lives. Police investigated these allegations against us more than 30 years ago and found no evidence to support them. To protect ourselves from the specter of false allegations, we voluntarily took a polygraph test. The results of the tests, which we took in 1986, support the reality that we did not sexually abuse these children." The lawsuit also claims the Mileses "utilized their status within the church, both as leaders in their own right and as the daughter and son-in-law of an apostle of the church, to cover up the crimes they committed against Jane Doe 1, Jane Doe 2 and John Doe 1." The lawsuit infers that President Nelson, who became an apostle in 1984, used his influence to protect the father and the Mileses from both the criminal investigation and church discipline. The suit explicitly accuses the Mileses of "lying to the police and influencing the criminal investigation; influencing leaders of the church to ignore church policy and not convene a church disciplinary (council) against themselves and (the plaintiffs' father); and further actions which encouraged and enabled defendants and (plaintiffs' father) to escape criminal prosecution and not be excommunicated from the church for the heinous sexual crimes they committed against these children." The plaintiffs claim that this enabled their father to remarry and allegedly abuse the children in that second marriage, who are listed as the second set of three plaintiffs Jane Doe 3 and 4 and John Doe 2. The church strongly denied the claims that President Nelson or any church official used any influence on the criminal investigation or church discipline. "These allegations of interference or coverup are baseless and offensive," the church said in a statement. "Law enforcement investigated this matter in the 1980s and took no action against the church or its leaders. We will continue to act responsibly and appropriately in addressing these matters." The stake president at the time, Craig Smith, said neither the Mileses or any church leader influenced his decision about church discipline for the plaintiffs' father or anyone else. "No one from the church told me what to do about whether members of the stake should or should not be disciplined," Smith said in a statement. "Decisions about members of my stake were left up to me as the stake president." Church policy instructs local leaders not to convene a disciplinary council until a legal investigation is concluded. The Mileses' attorney, Jim Jardine, said the allegations arose from the work of a "controversial" therapist, Barbara Snow, who was investigated for "planting" false memories in patients, which she denied. The investigations Investigators at the city and county level at the time found no evidence of a Bountiful sex abuse ring allegedly involving the Mileses. A state investigation also found no evidence to corroborate more than 220 claims of ritual sex abuse in Utah that mirrored a national trend of accusations later attributed to the counseling techniques of recovered-memory therapy, a practice now widely rejected by research psychologists because of the possibility of planted memories. David Jordan, an attorney with Stoel Rives who is assisting the church in this matter, provided declarations under oath from the lead investigators and prosecutors who examined claims of two alleged sex rings in the Mueller Park neighborhood in Bountiful. They say church officials did not try to shape the investigation. "No one from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints attempted to influence or interfere with our investigation in any way," said Michael George in one of the declarations. George was the investigator for the Salt Lake County Attorneys Office assigned to the case at the time. The statement was dated Sept. 19, 2018, a copy of which was reviewed by the Deseret News. George also addressed the "touching parties." "We did not find evidence of a child sex abuse ring," he said. The Deseret News has reviewed all four declarations. Then-Bountiful Police Det. Diana Stevens said no church officials attempted to interfere with the criminal investigations. Brian Namba, the Davis County deputy attorney, said no church representative "attempted to limit or interfere with the county's investigation or prosecutorial decisions." George, the Salt Lake County investigator, and Leslie Lewis, a deputy in the Salt Lake County Attorneys office at the time and a future Third District Court judge, also said no church officials attempted to influence their work. George said they found no evidence of a child sex abuse ring in the investigation involving the Mileses. The declarations made by him and Lewis indicated that when they sifted the evidence in their investigation of the plaintiffs' father's conduct with his children, it left questions but was insufficient for prosecution. "The evidence concerning (the plaintiffs' father) was conflicting and inconclusive and, ultimately, the Salt Lake County Attorneys Office determined not to prosecute him," George wrote. Lewis added, "Our investigation did not uncover sufficient evidence to warrant charges against (the plaintiffs' father)." Lewis signed her written declaration on Friday. Mileses' response "Allegations from the 1980s that we sexually abused neighborhood children by hosting 'touching' parties and engaging in other bizarre forms of ritualistic abuse are patently false and deeply, utterly offensive," the Mileses said in their statement on Wednesday. "Now that we have been subjected to a lawsuit attempting to dredge up these long-ago debunked accusations, it's important for us to speak out. "While it pains us to engage in litigation with former neighbors, especially individuals who have so clearly faced significant challenges in life, with the lawsuit they have filed, we are left with no choice but to defend ourselves in the court of law and in the court of public opinion. The allegations against us are false. While we feel deep sadness and concern for these individuals, any abuse they suffered did not involve us." Jardine, their attorney, added: "We have full confidence that both the legal and journalistic processes will come to the same truth that the Miles are completely innocent of these allegations. The Miles will vigorously defend against these false claims and will be completely vindicated. To that end, we will be filing today a motion to dismiss this complaint. Child sexual abuse is evil; so is a false accusation of such abuse." SALT LAKE CITY Violent crime and murder were down across the country last year, and Utah prosecutors are "running up the score" on criminals, U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions said Wednesday. Sessions credited the downward trend to Project Safe Neighborhoods, a 17-year-old federal partnership with state and local police agencies that the Trump administration relaunched a year ago this week. "To say what we do doesn't make any difference is ridiculous. What we do does make a difference," the former Alabama senator told about 500 officers and prosecutors at the state Capitol. "We've never had better trained police than we do today." One study showed that, in its first five years, the program reduced violent crime by 4.1 percent, with case studies showing reductions in some areas of more than 40 percent, Sessions said. There are Americans who are not victims and who are alive today because of the program, he said. Sessions also announced that the Justice Department is awarding $30 million to 86 jurisdictions in the country for the program, including $262,000 for Ogden. In April, U.S. Attorney for Utah John Huber identified a 5-square-mile section covering downtown Ogden as a Project Safe Neighborhoods target enforcement area. "Our goal is not to fill up the courts or fill up the prisons. Our goal is to reduce crime to make our communities safer," he said. While in Salt Lake City, Sessions also met privately with Gov. Gary Herbert, Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes, Huber and other law enforcers. He did not take questions from the media. Herbert spokesman Paul Edwards described the conversation as "free flowing" on a variety of topics, including "nuance" associated with public lands in the West. Sessions also talked about his agency's emphasis on the reaffirmation of freedom of religion as a cornerstone constitutional right, Edwards said. About a dozen people with Utahns Against Police Brutality demonstrated outside the Capitol while Sessions spoke. One carried a sign reading, "Sessions is a racist," while another sign read, "Return the children." "We do not want him here. We don't care for him. We don't care for his policies, especially where he stands on immigration," said Deborah Blake, one of the protest organizers. Blake said if Sessions is in Utah to talk about reducing violence, then he needs to address the police violence that's going on in the state. Sessions did not talk about his apparently strained relationship with President Donald Trump, who appointed him last year. Trump has accused Sessions of doing poorly in several facets of his job, fueling speculation that the president might fire him. The attorney general's only reference to Trump in his speech was a "law and order" president. "He took office with a mission, a mandate from the American people to restore public safety," Sessions said. Sessions said there are signs that his goals to reduce crime, homicides, opioid prescriptions and overdose deaths are being achieved. The FBI's final crime numbers for 2017 showed that violent crime and murder had not just stabilized, but went down, he said. One estimate projects that the murder rate in the nation's 29 biggest cities will decline by 7.6 percent this year bringing it down to 2015 levels in those cities, Sessions said. Ogden Police Chief Randy Watt said the program is already working in his city, which has a problem with gangs and drug trafficking. Gangs aren't territorial anymore but they compete for business, he said, adding that their presence fuels a lot of different crime. "When it comes to violent crime and career criminals, every minute I can keep them off the streets of Ogden and Weber County or out of Salt Lake County is a good minute for me," he said. Watt said the city is using the Project Safe Neighborhoods grant to fund crime-fighting initiatives, downtown foot and bicycle patrols, overtime and equipment. Police currently have 46 active criminal cases in various stages of screening involving gun violence and drugs, he said. Huber said he believes Utah overall has turned the corner on reducing violent crime since seeing a 14 percent increase in 2015 and a 18 percent increase in 2016. The state saw an 8 percent decrease last year, according to the Utah Department of Public Safety. "Our prosecutors in Utah are running up the score against the criminals," Sessions said. He said they have charged 29 percent more defendants in 2017 than they did in 2014, including 64 percent more drug trafficking defendants, 44 percent more violent crime defendants and 40 percent more illegal re-entries. SALT LAKE CITY Answer: He got booed. What is the end result of Alex Trebeks moderation of a Pennsylvania governors debate? Thats correct. As USA Today reported, the Jeopardy! host received heavy boos and jeers from the crowd at a debate between two Pennsylvania gubernatorial candidates Monday night. Trebek soaked up much of the attention during the event, which was the only time Pennsylvania voters had a chance to see the two candidates debate on issues. He went out of his way in the beginning, saying he was not going to get in the way, then he got in the way, said Charlie Gerow, the CEO of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania-based Quantum communications, according to The Reading Eagle. Current Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf agreed to only one debate between himself and Republican Scott Wagner, who wanted to debate in all 67 counties. Alex Trebek at last night's Pennsylvania Governor's debate: "The approval rate for the legislature was at 14 percent. The only thing with a lower rating in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is the Catholic Church." pic.twitter.com/fUSZGpgPrW Keith Boykin (@keithboykin) October 2, 2018 Trebek said the 67 counties seemed like too much and an unrealistic goal. Trebek spent time condemning the Catholic Church and predatory behavior, according to USA Today. The crowd booed Trebek at the end of the event. What did I tell you guys at the beginning? Trebek said. No booing or hissing! And now youre directing it at me! "Hearing A LOT of Alex Trebek tonight. Not sure I've ever heard a debate moderator talk so much, tweeted Ryan Tarkowski, the communications director for the Pennsylvania State Police. See more social media reactions below: Hearing a LOT of Alex Trebek tonight. Not sure Ive ever heard a debate moderator talk so much. Ryan Tarkowski (@RyanTarkowski) October 2, 2018 With a total of 45 minutes of debate time in the Pa gov's campaign, Alex Trebek is killing a lot of time with meandering questions that don't get us far into the issues Dave Davies (@DaveDaviesWHYY) October 2, 2018 Alex Trebek just interrupted the Pennsylvania gubernatorial debate to tell everyone he was never sexually abused by a priest. Dan McQuade (@dhm) October 2, 2018 In fact, Pennsylvania Rep. Brendan Boyle didnt appreciate Trebek. SALT LAKE CITY BuzzFeed recently released a video titled 5 National Parks That You Need To Visit," and two of the five parks featured in the video are located in the state of Utah. Arches National Park near Moab was listed at number one. BuzzFeed stated that the park features more than 2,000 natural stone archways and noted that the park has some of the darkest night skies in the country. Perfect for stargazing. Zion National Park in Springdale was ranked at number three in the video. The news site mentioned that Zion is Utahs first national park. Viewers were told to check out Angels Landing, one of the most popular hikes in the park. The video also featured Great Smokey Mountains in Tennessee, Yosemite in California and Badlands in South Dakota. You can watch the video below. Zion National Park has been getting quite a bit of press lately. The Deseret News reported that Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke visited last month to get an up-close look at some of the parks $65 million backlogged maintenance needs. There has also been some controversy after the upper portion of Zion Narrows, another notable hiking trail, was recently closed off to hikers after landowners posted No Trespassing signs. Park officials are communicating with the landowners but remain unsure of what future plans for the property will be. There has been a change in the cast of characters for Yonkers Raceways upcoming $1 million International Trot. Dreammoko, who was to represent the Netherlands, has been sidelined with a touch of a virus and wont make the trip. In his stead, the fleet Canadian Will Take Charge has been chosen. For Will Take Charge, its the culmination of a career season. The five-year-old Kadabra gelding, owned by Mac Nichol of Burlington, Ont., and trained by Jeff Gillis of Mississauga, Ont., has won nine of his 20 starts and $409,965. His 1:53.2 Yonkers win in mid-September matched the track record for an aged trotting gelding. Will Take Charges world-record mark of 1:50.3 was trotted in the $150,000 Maxie Lee Memorial Invitational at Harrahs Philadelphia in late May. I spoke with Jeff (Gillis) and he was tickled to death, race secretary Steve Starr has said. The horse showed his guts when he won here, and were happy hes coming back for this race. Will Take Charge, pictured victorious in 1:50.3 in the 2018 Maxie Lee Memorial Invitational Canada now has a pair of entrants in the International, as Will Take Charge will join last seasons runner-up, triple-millionaire Marion Marauder. The list of the 10 world-class trotters that are set to contest the mile-and-a-quarter 40th International appears below. Arazi Boko (Italy) Ariana G (United States) Cruzado Dela Noche (Sweden) Lionel (Norway) Marion Marauder (Canada) Pastore Bob (Sweden) Ringostarr Treb (Italy) Slide So Easy (Denmark) Up and Quick (France) Will Take Charge (Canada) First post for the special matinee program which also includes the $250,000 Harry Harvey Invitational Trot and $250,000 Dan Rooney Invitational Pace will be at 1 p.m. (With files from Yonkers Raceway) WEST JORDAN Area residents are being encouraged to give their input on a study of the New Bingham Highway and Grizzly Way. New Bingham Highway Connector Study is looking to transform the corridor from 4000 West to 5600 West into a community gateway. As part of the study, an online survey is asking residents how they use the corridor as well as their thoughts on preliminary concepts for the corridors. The link to the anonymous survey can be found on the citys website at westjordan.utah.gov. It should take about six minutes to complete. The survey includes different concepts for both the New Bingham Highway and Grizzly Way, including parking options and bike lanes. According to the study, different options are possible along different segments of the corridor. The study is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2018. Tanushree Duttas Harssament Case: This Is Bollywood's Take So Far Tanushree Dutta, former Miss India and Bollywood actor, went missing from the industry almost a decade back. While many wondered why the Aashiq Banaya Apne actor quit industry, Tanushree has now answered all questions, claiming that she decided to leave films after she was harassed on the sets of her film, Horn OK Pleassss. The actor said she had detailed her ordeal in 2008 as well but there was no outcome. She also named Nana Patekar as her abuser, alleging that he had demanded that she shoot an intimate dance step with her. She also alleged that during the making of 2005 film Chocolate, the films director Vivek Agnihotri had asked her to remove her clothes and dance in front of Irrfan Khan in order to give him cues for a scene. However, cast members Irrfan and Suniel Shetty had come out in support of her during that time. Ever since Tanushrees allegations, heres what the biggest and important names in Bollywood have said about the issue. 1. Janice Sequeira, a journalist, was among the first ones to add weight to Tanushrees claims by tweeting her eyewitness account. She had tweeted, Some incidents that take place even a decade ago remain fresh in your memory. What happened with #TanushreeDutta on the sets of Horn Ok Please is one such incident - I was there. #NanaPatekar. Shyni Shetty, an assistant director on the film, also corroborated Tanushrees account. Everything in this thread happened exactly the way its written. It was my first film as an AD. I was proud of what you did then, @TanushreeDutta and Im proud of you today, she wrote. 2. Tanushree claimed that choreographer Ganesh Acharya and director Rakesh Sarang were complicit in her harassment but both have dismissed her claims. Ganesh has said that no intimate dance steps were added and neither was the actor harassed in any way. I can confirm that nothing this sort of happened. Its a wrong statement that Nana ji called members of some political party on set. It never happened, he told India Today. 3. When actor Amitabh Bachchan was asked to react on the issue during the launch of the Thugs of Hindostan trailer, the senior actor said he was neither Nana nor Tanushree and cannot comment on the issue. However, Tanushree has expressed her deep disappointment at the superstars reaction. She told Hindustan Times, Im hurt, as these are people who do movies on social causes. But when it comes to standing up and doing something about what is happening in front of you, there are these evasive statements that dont make sense. 5. Amid all the hullaballoo, director Farah Khan shared a picture from the sets of her upcoming film Housefull 4, also starring Nana Patekar. Twitter called out Farah. Meanwhile, author Twinkle Khanna supported Tanushree with her tweet, Please read this thread before judging or shaming #TanushreeDutta a working environment without harassment and intimidation is a fundamental right and by speaking up this brave woman helps pave the way towards that very goal for all of us! 6. Actor Farhan Akhtar was among the first few Bollywood celebs to tweet his support for Tanushree. This thread is very telling. @janiceseq85 was there at the time of the incident being debated today. Even when #TanushreeDutta had career concerns to keep quiet 10 years ago she did not & her story hasnt changed now. Her courage should be admired, not her intention questioned, he wrote on Twitter. 7. Actor Priyanka Chopra also wrote in response to Farhan Akhtars statement, Agreed..the world needs to #BelieveSurviviors. However, this also did not go down well with Tanushree who hit back with her response on Zoom, Its amazing. She (Priyanka) has finally decided to join the bandwagon. Its probably a smart thing to do at this point of time. But I just want people to know that I am not going to be reduced to a survivor. I have a name, I have a story and I have this truth that I am trying to get out because its not for me but for people who will come forward in the generations to come. 8. Recently at an event, when actor Salman Khan was asked about what he had to say about the whole episode, he clearly evaded the question with the reply, I am not aware of this. Let me know and understand what is happening. 9. Actor Sonam Kapoor, known for being vocal in her views, supported Tanushree, I believe #TanushreeDatta and @janiceseq85 recollection of the account. Janice is my friend, and she is anything but an exaggerator or a liar. And its upto us to stand together. She added, Many of my co-workers,female and male have been harassed and bullied, but its their story to tell. If we dont encourage their voices and instead vilify and question them, how will victims ever become survivors? Let them speak up! Stand up with them! 10. Namastey England actor Parineeti Chopra took to Twitter to share her support for Tanushree. She tweeted, I agree too. Survivors are survivors because they have dealt with something horrible and come out on the other side. So believe them, respect them. @janiceseq85 #TanushreeDutta. 11. Actors Richa Chadha and Swara Bhasker also tweeted their support for the actor. It hurts to be #TanushreeDutta rn. To be alone, questioned. No woman wants publicity that opens the floodgates of trolling and insensitivity.What happened to her on set was intimidation.Her only fault was she didnt back down-takes a special courage to be #TanushreeDutta, Richa wrote. Swara wrote simply, #IBelieveYouTanushreeDutta. 12. Director Anurag Kashyap also wrote in Tanushrees support, If my previous tweet sounds vague let me clarify it. This should stop the questioning of intention of Tanushree Datta because there is a witness account of what happened and @janiceseq85 is as credible as the come. 13. In an interview to Pinkvilla, actor Kangana Ranaut said: I am not here to pass judgement. Thats neither my place nor my intention. I appreciate her courage to speak about alleged harassment that has been caused to her. Its her and the accuseds fundamental right to speak about their experience of the same situation. Such dialogue is very healthy and it will bring about a lot of awareness. 14. Actor Varun Dhawan also applauded her courage. I have been busy with Sui Dhaaga, so I havent really heard the whole story, but I think whats most important at a work place is respect -- whether for a woman, man or a child. We want to make our industry a safe place and everyone deserves equal respect. Also if someone is openly talking about the issue, we should hear them out. It takes great courage to talk about it and I applaud that courage. Launch of Irish Aid Annual Report 2017 Speech Thank you for the welcome. It is appropriate that we are gathered here tonight in the EPIC museum for this launch of the Irish Aid Annual Report. It is appropriate because the drivers of Irish migration, the story which this museum tells, were poverty, hunger and a lack of opportunity at home. These are frequently factors at play in the countries which receive Irish development assistance. There is something, I believe, deep in our psyche as Irish people which recognises that, just as we received help from others at times of need, we have a duty to help those furthest behind. We remember the generosity of the Choctaw Indians who gave of their little to help us when we had nothing. Or, within living memory, the parcel from America which gave relief to struggling parents. And EPIC also tells the story of our diaspora. A diaspora which includes missionaries, educators, health workers and volunteers, all of whom are part of the deep linkages between the Irish people and places around the globe to which we are connected in many and various ways. I was reminded of this many times last week, when in bilateral meetings in the United Nations new friendships were forged thanks to the memory of an Irish teacher or priest who had worked in a far flung place to make life there better. Indeed, this month here in EPIC there is an exhibition which chronicles the story of the Irish diaspora in Kenya, and the enduring contribution they have made to life in that country. Ireland still makes a massive contribution to the development of Kenya. I visited Nairobi last year, opening the new Irish Embassy there together with the Kenyan Foreign Minister. I heard of innovative collaborations, most notably in the area of potatoes, where Irish know-how is helping lift Kenya yields. I saw first-hand the inspiring work of Irish NGOs and missionaries. I also witnessed the incredible dynamism of a country which must create a million jobs a year if it is to provide work for its youth. Similar stories of hope and change are to be found across the Irish Aid programme. This years Annual Report includes a map, which shows that last year Irelands official overseas development aid reached over 130 countries around the world. We did so maintaining our focus on quality and on reaching the furthest behind first. A leading international development think tank, the Overseas Development Institute, recently found that Irelands aid programme was the most effective in the world at reaching those in extreme poverty. This reputation for quality development cooperation is an important part of our international diplomacy. It was a cornerstone of the discussions which the Taoiseach, Minister Ciaran Cannon, and I had in at the United Nations General Assembly last week, as the world met to discuss the common problems which we share and to look to build common solutions. I reiterated our view in New York that it is in our national interest and it is in everyones interests globally - to invest in an effective multilateral rules-based system, which looks out for all countries regardless of size. Continuing to invest in our aid programme is one of the ways in which Ireland can help protect and shape the international order, to best ensure that it reflects our values as a country. That is the impulse behind the Governments commitment to reach the UN target for development assistance of 0.7% of Gross National Income by 2030. Quite simply, given the inter-connectedness of the modern world, we cannot afford not to play our full part. As the Annual Report acknowledges, humanitarian need is increasing constantly and at nearly a quarter of our overall spend was the largest component of our expenditure last year. This is a reflection of the complexity of our world, in particular the human tragedies in Syria and Yemen, and the ongoing miseries of the Palestinian people. It is also because Ireland continues to prioritise assisting those caught up in less well known crises, such as the Central African Republic or the Democratic Republic of Congo. The large humanitarian spend also arose because Ireland responded to the successful call from the multilateral system to help avert four famines. However, it is not enough to respond. We must seek to do more to prevent. We must also build on what we have achieved, while maintaining the quality and effectiveness which is one of our trademarks. That is why I spoke, almost one year ago, at the launch of the last Annual Report, of the need for a new Irish international development policy. I am pleased to say that work on that new policy is almost complete, with the final town hall meeting taking place later this evening. As part of the pathway towards that new policy, this years annual report has some innovations. It shows the breadth of Irish Aids engagement worldwide. It has an increased focus on how the development cooperation programme assists with the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, which Ireland was so proud to help broker in the United Nations. It places greater emphasis on Irelands contribution to conflict prevention and resolution. I am conscious too that as Irish Aid we rely on many others, but in particular Irish NGOs, to deliver assistance to those most in need. I would like to pay tribute to all those involved in this great effort. Ireland is a leader in the area of ODA channelled through civil society, which provides great insight into needs on the ground and also helps ensure that what we do stays true to our values as a people. Ultimately Irelands development cooperation is all about people. It is those who deliver that assistance. It is, most importantly, about those who that assistance is intended to help. It is important that we hear their voices and meet their needs. And it is also about the Irish citizen, on whose generosity we depend. This Annual Report is part of our accountability to the people of Ireland for what we do in their name, work in which I believe the people of Ireland can be very proud. Thank you. Previous Item | Microsoft hosted the Surface event in New York and this time around, and announced a host of new hardware. This time around, were getting the Surface Pro 6, the Surface Laptop 2, the Surface Studio 2 and an all new pair of headphones with active noise cancellation and Cortana built-in. the first three products are essentially a refresh to newer components while the headphones are a totally new product from the company. Surface Pro 6 Microsofts new Surface Pro 6 appears to be in many ways the same as the previous generation Surface Pro, with the changes occurring only on the inside. Now sporting Intels 8th generation processors, the Surface Pro 6 also boasts of longer battery life. Other than that, the only new thing about the Surface Pro 6 will be the new matte black finish it will come in. The hybrid is expected to go on sale on October 16th for a starting price of $899 which will get a machine with 8GB RAM, an Intel Core i5 processor and 128GB NVMe storage. If youd like the highest possible configuration, which happens to be Intel Core i7 processor paired with 16GB RAM and 1TB NVMe storage, youll have to shell out $2299. Surface Laptop 2 The new Surface Laptop 2 comes packing the latest Intel 8th generation processors (8650U), which Microsoft claims is part of the reason why the new Surface Laptop is up to 85 percent faster than its predecessor. The display has also been improved and now has a 1500:1 contrast ratio. Microsoft also said in its closed-door event that the keyboard has been upgraded to be quieter than the one found on the Surface Laptop. Lastly, the Surface Laptop 2 will also be available in the matte black finish like that of the Surface Laptop and will also be available starting October 16 for a starting price of $999, which will get you 8GB RAM, an 8th gen Intel i5 processor and 128GB of NVMe storage. A fully loaded version of the machine (16GB RAM, Intel i7, 1TB storage) will set you back $2699. Surface Studio 2 Lastly, Microsofts innovative all-in-one for creatives, the Surface Studio has also been upgraded and Microsoft is calling it the fastest Surface ever. All variants of the upgraded Surface Studio 2 are powered by Intel Core i7 -7820HQ chip. Which happens ot be a 7th-gen chip. You can choose between 16 or 32GB of high-speed DDR4 RAM, along with a significantly beefier GPU, the Nvidia GTX 1070. The 28-inch PixelSense display has been upgraded with a new liquid crystal material to create deeper blacks. Theres also the additional USB-C port on the back of the machine, but there is a lack of literature on whether it supports Thunderbolt 3 or not. The Surface Studio 2 starts at $3499 for the base configuration and goes all the way to $4799 Surface Headphones Microsoft has made it kind of a tradition to announce one product every other year that no one saw coming. This year, its a pair of wireless headphones with active noise cancellation. Microsoft claims these can last up to 15 hours on a single charge, offer Cortana integration and of course the usual suite of touch based controls on the side of the ear-cups. What is perhaps most interesting are the rings around each of the earcups. While one controls volume, the other allows you to tune the active noise cancellation in up to 13 levels so that you can choose the amount of ambient sound coming in. Typically, most headphones offer you 2 or 3 levels, if even that. Apart from being wireless, the Surface Headphones also offer both USB-C and 3.5mm input connectors. The headphones are priced at $349 and dont have a release date yet, but Microsoft says they will ship later this year. Gaming Laptop Deals on Dell Laptops Extra 1,500 discounts on paying through UPI Extra 1,500 discounts on paying through NetBanking and much more. Click here to know more Advertisements The 2018 Nobel Prize in Physics recognises two very notable pieces of work in the field of lasers. This year, the highest honor has been awarded to Arthur Ashkin, a 96-year old former employee of Bell Labs in the US and now the oldest Nobel laureate in the world. Ashkin was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for creating optical tweezers which can hold particles, atoms, viruses and other living cells with laser beam fingers. But Ashkin, with his age, was not the only record breaker in the history of the Nobel awards. The second half of the Nobel Prize in Physics for 2018 was awarded to Physicist Donna Strickland, an associate professor at the University of Waterloo. Strickland shares her Nobel Prize with Gerard Mourou of Ecole Polytechnique in France for their method of generating high-intensity, ultra-short optical pulses. Stricklands win is a significant milestone because she is the first and only living female recipient of the Nobel Prize in Physics. She is also the third woman in the world to be awarded a Nobel Prize in this field and the first woman in more than half a century (55 years) to be given the highest academic honor for Physics, which till date has had 209 recipients. Previously, Marie Curie and Maria Goeppert-Mayer won the prestigious award. While Ashkin started working with lasers in the 1960s and has had multiple scientists build on his research, including Nobel Laureate Steven Chu, Strickland and Mourou paired up in the 1980s for their work on the compression of amplified chirped optical pulses. Together, Strickland and Mourou succeeded in creating the shortest, most intense laser beams which can be used to make very precise cuts. The technique invented by the two scientists paved the way for laser machines used in millions of corrective eye surgeries around the world. Since Strickland's win, multiple reports have suggested how the Physicist did not even have a Wikipedia page before the prize was announced on October 2, even though her male counterpart Mourou had one. Both scientistist have helped further the development of lasers and were co-authors of the paper that finally led to the discovery of ultra-short optical pulses. While Mourou has had Wikipedia's stamp of approval since 1985, Strickland's page only came up early Tuesday morning. In fact, Strickland's Wikipedia entry was reportedly rejected by a moderator back in 2018 citing that the "subject" did not qualify to have a Wikipedia entry. It is extremely important to note the equal, if not bigger achievements of women in the field of technology and science. It is crucial that due recognition is given to the meritorious scientific work of women so as to increase our participation in the industry and give young girls goals to look forward to. It is saddening to see that even in this day and age, this is a concept that need frequent reinforcement. However, we do hope that just like Professor Strickland, more and more women are recognised for their immense contribution to scientific study in the future. The U.S. Department of Educations office for civil rights will investigate whether a Georgia school district created a hostile environment for girls when it implemented a policy that allows transgender students to use restrooms and locker rooms that correspond with their gender identities. The investigation comes after a parent claimed their daughter was sexually assaulted in the girls restroom at a Decatur City elementary school by a male student who identified as gender fluid, according to a Sept. 14 letter from the federal agency to an attorney for Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative Christian organization that has opposed transgender student policies and helped file the Georgia complaint. The office for civil rights will investigate both the districts policy and how officials handled the familys sexual assault complaint. The district responded in a statement that said it is committed to supporting all students. We are aware of the unfounded allegations made by the Alliance Defending Freedom, the statement said. We fully disagree with their characterization of the situation and are addressing it with the Office of Civil Rights. If the complaint is found to be valid, the investigation could trigger a dramatic shift for how transgender students are treated in public schools and set the stage for legal battles between the federal governmentwhich currently takes no position on transgender student rightsand states that identify gender identity as a protected class in their own laws and policies. A growing number of states have such non-discrimination laws, which require schools to allow transgender students to use the restrooms and locker rooms of their choice. At issue in the complaint: Do such policies violate Title IX, the federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in schools, by creating a hostile and unsafe environment for girls? One of U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos first official actions was to rescind Obama-era guidance, issued in 2016, that said public schools must allow transgender students to use the restrooms and locker rooms that match their gender identity, or risk a federal civil rights investigation. Citing growing court precedent, that guidance argued that Title IX applies to gender identity, rather than sex. In rescinding the guidance, DeVos and U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions took no position on the issue, leaving it to states and districts to interpret federal law. Advocates for transgender students argue that allowing them access to school facilities that match their gender identity is an issue of basic dignity. In state-level hearings over possible school restrictions, mothers of some transgender students said their children had grown dehydrated when they refused to drink water at school to avoid the need to use restrooms where they felt unsafe. Several federal judges have sided with transgender students in lawsuits over the issue, citing Title IX and the equal protection clause to the U.S. Constitution. But opponents of providing such access argue that it violates the privacy rights of other students and creates potential safety risks if, for example, boys use them as an excuse to use girls facilities. This situation was both deeply tragic and avoidable, Alliance Defending Freedom Attorney Christiana Holcomb said in a statement. Schools have a duty to protect the privacy and safety of all students and Decatur Schools clearly failed this young girl. The current approach that many schools are taking of passing these transgender bathroom policies isnt working; they fail to provide basic privacy or ensure the safety of all students. Advocates for transgender students pushed back Thursday. Schools have accomodated transgender students without problems for years, they said. Tweets from Eliza Byard, the executive director of GLSEN: Something terrible happened to the victim in this case. Our heart goes out to this family, and we hope that the family and child receive all of the support that they need in the wake of this trauma. -- Eliza Byard (@EByard) October 3, 2018 The National Center for Transgender Equality responded to the investigation with a statement: Every allegation of sexual assault must be taken seriously, and each deserves a full, thorough investigation that respects the rights and privacy of survivors. We are deeply concerned, however, that the Department of Education will inject politics and ideology into its investigation of the school's handling of this incident. We know that policies affirming the rights of transgender students do not increase the safety risks for any child. Any argument otherwise ignores the support for these policies from hundreds of anti-sexual assault groups, every credible study on the topic, and the lived experiences of schools, students, and families across the country. Our heart breaks for anyone dealing with the trauma of sexual violence, but there is simply no basis to the notion that policies protecting transgender students contribute to that violence." Photo: Getty Images The prestige and rich history of the International Trot can rear its head in many places. For Anders Strom, the races lineage materialized before him as he studied the yearling catalogue of the recently-concluded Arqana Trot Select Yearling Sale. Strom paused on Hip No. 47, a colt out of Sirene de Mai, whose great, great, great grand dam, Une de Mai, along with her countless European feats, won the International Trot in 1969 and 1971. The race has seen many great winners, and I actually watched the 1969 edition on YouTube recently, Strom said. It was when French supermare Une de Mai beat Nevele Pride, as I was in the process of buying a Ready Cash yearling colt in Deauville from the Une de Mai maternal line. Strom bought the colt for 170,000 and he will have a chance to make history of his own in this years renewal of the International Trot. His stable, Stall Courant AB, will start Cruzado Dela Noche as a representative of Sweden in the $1 million stakes. It would be (my) biggest win so far. Only Elitloppet, Prix dAmerique, Hambletonian and the Swedish four-year-old Derby can match it, in my book, Strom said. But this horses character makes it extra special. As he already has qualified as a sire in the Swedish system with high grades, a win here would boost his credentials for that as well. That would be very nice. Strom bought Cruzado Dela Noche sight unseen out of the 2013 Harrisburg Yearling Sale for $28,000. The Pennsylvania-bred son of Muscle Massive out of the Credit Winner mare Alidade, then known by the name Arusa Hanover, looked the part, but it was something intangible that piqued Stroms interest. I wasnt at the sale because of business in Australia, but Cruzado was one of five lower-priced yearlings that I bought on the back of advice from friends and agents who were at the sale inspecting horses, Strom explained. Cruzado was the one that had the extra special attitude which is why I renamed him with a name I had kept for a really good horse. The name comes from the Spiderman movie, when Peter Parker comes up with the idea for his suit. Despite his early promise and standout spirit, Cruzado Dela Noche struggled to stay trotting in his two and three-year-old campaigns; he made breaks in stride in 10 of his 28 races and qualifiers. Despite those setbacks, Cruzado Dela Noche finished third in the Peter Haughton Memorial and posted wins in a division of the International Stallion Stakes and a leg of Pennsylvania Sire Stakes as a freshman in Nancy Johanssons stable. He was slightly immature and whimsy to begin with, but tremendously talented, Strom said. We felt that he would mature over time, so we werent especially worried. Nancy and Marcus Johansson took good care of him in the early days which we are thankful for now that the horse is sound and makes a good career as an older trotter. After a three-year-old campaign that produced just two wins in 11 starts, Strom sent Cruzado Dela Noche across the Atlantic to trainer Stefan Melander and Courant Managing Director Sabine Kagebrant. The calculated move would allow Cruzado Dela Noche to take advantage of the four-year-old stakes in Sweden and give him time to develop. We stake all our U.S. purchases to the rich four-year-old program in Europe. It doesnt cost much and they add a lot of purse money, so it is an easy business decision, Strom explained. Stefan Melander also has a great track record when it comes to the older American horse. Melanders training regime suits him perfect. He also has an extra groom in Sabine Kagebrant, who has great experience with older star trotters, having worked with Stefan Melander, Bjorn Goop and Jorgen Westholm horses all over Europe, Strom continued. When Sabine is out of the office, she spends a lot of time with Noche, makes him feel special and that works well for him. At four, Cruzado Dela Noche won the Group 1 Grosser Preis Von Deutschland and the Group 2 Norrlands Grand Prix. He also placed third in the Group 1 Sprinter Mastaren Final. At 5, Cruzado Dela Noche captured the Group 1 Copenhagen Cup. Cruzado Dela Noche, pictured after winning the 2017 Copenhagen Cup (Photo courtesy Adam Strom) He always does his best, I can think of only one or two races when he failed and there were good excuses, Strom said. One was in Elitloppet 2017, when he made a break at the gate in the elimination which otherwise likely would have given him the same trip as Resolve, who eventually was second in the final. That was hard to take. I think he could have matched Timoko on the day, he was in such good shape, he continued. But overall this horse gives us tremendous joy, just to see his attitude makes me wonder sometimes. He is so much more than just the average good racehorse. Now a six-year-old, Cruzado Dela Noche has been lightly raced this season. The horse was sixth in the Group 1 Olympiatravet Final April 28, third in the Copenhagen Cup May 13, scored his lone win this year in the listed Gosta Bergengrens Minneslopp May 30 before finishing fifth in the Group 1 Oslo Grand Prix. His short campaign was by design, as Cruzado Dela Noche returned to the United States early to settle into a new chapter of his career. We got invited in May and then we decided to give the horse the best preparation possible, with proper quarantine so he could get acclimatized to his new-old life in the U.S. Our dream race to target this season is the International Trot so we didnt want to leave anything to chance, Strom said. European races are run in a different way which isnt ideal for Cruzado. He likes the high, even pace better, which is why we staked him for the fall season in the U.S.A. just in case, he continued. Any which way, he raced really good in the spring, so we felt he was going upwards in form all the time. Cruzado Dela Noche reemerged in a qualifier at Pocono Downs September 12 for trainer Marcus Melander. He led wire-to-wire in 1:55.2. The horse got another trial under his belt at the same venue September 26 and crossed the wire first in 1:54.2. He has done quarantine, then two light qualifiers at Pocono, which he made look very easy, Strom said. He likes his life at Marcus Melanders farm and he will get another sharper workout, like an eye-opener, a few days before the race which I believe will be enough to take him to top form. Cruzado Dela Noche, who will pair with driver Brian Sears for the first time in the International, will face nine rivals: Arazi Boko (Italy), Ariana G (United States), Will Take Charge (Canada), Lionel (Norway), Marion Marauder (Canada), Pastore Bob (Sweden), Ringostarr Treb (Italy), Slide So Easy (Denmark), and Up And Quick (France). Although the field is one of the deepest in recent memory, Strom likes his chances. I think this years field is absolutely fantastic, given the challenge with trans-Atlantic transport of international horses. All races in this class are tough. But Noche has beaten Twister Bi, last years winner, fair and square before, from second-over in a Swedish record time over the same distance as the International Trot, on a slow five-eighths-mile track. That says he can compete with anyone on the day, Strom said. Now I hope Brian Sears up first time will give him an extra gear as well. From posts one to five he is a real contender, otherwise a decent chance to show anyway. I respect the competition and I believe the winner will be the horse that is best on the day and has racing luck. The $1 million International Trot is slated for Saturday, Oct. 13 at Yonkers Raceway. The card will also feature a pair of $250,000 invitationals, the Harry Harvey Trot and Dan Rooney Pace. For more information on the event and its participants, visit internationaltrot.com. (SOA of NY) UN's International Court of Justice directs US to lift some Iran sanctions The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Hague has directed the United States to lift sanctions on Iran linked to humanitarian concerns, in a move welcomed by Tehran. The United Nations' top court issued an interim order directing the United States to lift sanctions linked to humanitarian goods and civil aviation imposed against Iran. "On humanitarian grounds, the US must remove by means of its choosing any impediment to the free exportation to Iran of goods involving humanitarian concerns," the International Court of Justice (ICJ) said in its ruling on Wednesday. Even though this court's rulings cannot be appealed and they are binding, there is no way to enforce it, especially since the US has left the court. "The decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the US sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel," Iran's foreign ministry said in a statement. Tehran had urged the ICJ, also known as the World Court, to order Washington to suspend the sanctions temporarily while it hears Iran's case in full, a process that could take years. While Iran's real quarrel is over President Trump's plan to pull out of a 2015 landmark agreement between Iran, the US and five world powers, Tehran had argued that the sanctions imposed since May by US President Donald Trump's administration violated the terms of their 1955 Treaty of Amity. Washington says that Iran's request is an attempt to misuse the court. Iran has invoked a little known 1955 Treaty of Amity that was signed before Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution, which caused a sharp deterioration in bilateral ties that has endured until today. US State Department Legal Adviser Jennifer Newstead argued during oral hearings last month that the 1955 treaty specifically rules out using courts to resolve disputes. The Trump administration withdrew from the nuclear agreement with Iran in May and announced unilateral plans to restore sanctions against Tehran. The US move has been opposed by other major powers, the United Kingdom, Russia, France, China, Germany and the European Union, which helped negotiate the deal. Iran says the US sanctions, which have prompted many foreign companies to stop doing business with it and are undermining its already weak economy, violate the terms of the 1955 treaty. Last month, the EU decided to set up a new mechanism to enable legal trade with Iran without encountering US sanctions. Despite international criticism, Washington is pushing ahead with a new series of sanctions, due to go into effect on 4 November. PM Modi conferred `Champion of Earth' award Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the United Nations' highest environmental honour, the UNEP Champions of the Earth award at a special ceremony at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in New Delhi today. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres presented the prime minister with the award announced on 26 September, on the sidelines of 73rd UN General Assembly at New York City, on the sidelines of the second member assembly of the International Solar Association (ISA) in New Delhi today. Prime Minister Modi has been selected in the leadership category for his pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and for his unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022. French President Emmanuel Macron has also been named as recipient of the prestigious award for exemplary leadership and advocating action on sustainable development and climate change. "UN Environment is recognising Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his bold environmental leadership on the global stage. Under Modis leadership, India pledged to eliminate all single-use plastics in the country by 2022. Prime Minister Modi also supports and champions the International Solar Alliance, a global partnership to scale up solar energy, UN's citation for the award read. The annual Champions of the Earth prize is awarded to outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions have had a positive impact on the environment. The UNEP Champions of the Earth award is given to leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions have resulted in a significant positive impact on the environment. According to the UNEP website, "The Champions of the Earth award is the UNs highest environmental recognition celebrating exceptional figures from the public and private sectors and from civil society, whose actions have had a transformative positive impact on the environment... Since being founded thirteen years ago, the awards have recognized 84 laureates ranging from leaders of nations to grassroots activists in the categories of policy, science, business and civil society." Earlier recipients of the award include: Afroz Shah, who led the worlds largest beach cleanup (2016); Rwandan President Paul Kagame (2016); former US vice president Al Gore (2007), Ocean Cleanup CEO Boyan Slat (2014), scientist-explorer Bertrand Piccard, and developer of Google Earth Brian McClendon (2013), according to the UNEP release. Govt awards 55 oil and gas blocks to 6 companies under OALP Round-1 The government of India on Monday signed oil and gas exploration and production contracts with six companies for all 55 blocks that were on offer in the first round of bids under the Open Acreage Licensing Programme (OALP). Together these 55 oil and gas blocks are expected to rake in investment to the tune of Rs6,000 crore. The investment proposals are smaller compared to the earlier tenders under the New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) that tended to create a high-cost exploration scenario for both the oil companies and the government. Initially, 110 e-bids were received for 55 blocks on offer with participation from 9 companies, singly or in consortium. Finally, contracts have been signed for all 55 blocks with 6 companies. This will add 59,282 sq.km of exploration area, which is about 65 per cent of the area under exploration in the country at present. Government expects this to lead to significant increase in E&P activities in India and in long run discoveries from these field significantly boosting domestic production. The bid round-I of OALP was launched in January 2018 under the Liberalised Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP). It is for the first time that bidding in the E&P sector in India was for blocks that had been selected by bidders themselves with government playing a facilitator role. The OALP bid round-I has received overwhelming enthusiasm from various stakeholders of E&P industry, with all 55 blocks on offer receiving bids and being awarded. Minister for petroleum and natural gas and skill development and entrepreneurship Dharmendra Pradhan congratulated the awardees and assured them of complete support and assistance from the government. He reiterated the governments policy measures to enhance domestic hydrocarbon production by putting forth new initiatives and new offers so that the true potential of Indian sedimentary basins is realised. The minister said the companies have committed investment of about Rs6,000 crore for exploring under this round. He said there is huge potential in these reserves and their exploration will positively impact the Indian economy. He said that the government is working in a transparent manner, and policies are being made after extensive consultation with all stakeholders. Pradhan said India has already become third largest energy consumer in the world and the government is committed to provide affordable energy to its citizens, and for this purpose, several initiatives have been taken to enhance the production of hydrocarbons. Woodmere Finesse will take on four foes for her new trainer in the top aged pace of the night this Thursday (Oct. 3) at Red Shores Charlottetown Driving Park. First-race post time for the 11-dash card will be at 6:30 p.m. Woodmere Finesse has drawn Post 4 for the $1,800 dash (Race 7) for the duo of driver Gilles Barrieau and trainer Jeff Lilley. The four-year-old daughter of Articulator will look to add to the eight wins she has compiled thus far in her 2018 campaign. Edward Maher of Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia owns Woodmere Finesse, who has recorded a 1:56 win over Nova Scotias Truro Raceway this season. Woodmere Finesse turned heads as a two-year-old when she recorded a win in 1:57.4 without hopples, a record for free-legged rookies on Canadas east coast. West River Ambyr will look to have some say in the Thursday evening outcome, as the five-year-old daughter of Brandons Cowboy will also be dropping out of the Open Mares ranks into Post 2 for driver Steven Shepherd and trainer Harold Shepherd. The 18-time winner has a solid summary of 16 top-three finishes in 2018 after 23 starts. Other entries include Goodmorning Ky (to be driven by Ken Murphy), Julep Hanover (Wade Myers) and Drivingthedragon N (Jason Hughes). The CPKN Stanhope Workshop 2018 Pace has been slotted as Race 6 on the program and it will feature a full field of eight pacing mares. Dusty Lane Zendaya has received the top billing as the morning line choice, but will have to overcome Post 8 for driver Ron Gass, trainer Stephen Gass and owners Alexis Gass and the Estate Of Shelley Gass of Cornwall, P.E.I. Other top entries include CL La Rousse (David Dowling) and Can Art (Adam Merner). The program will also feature a pair of three-year-old overnight classes for non-winners of $3,000 lifetime that will each carry a special purse of $2,500. The dashes have been carded as Races 3 and 5. The Atlantic Breeders Crown will be featured this weekend. The kick-off will be the Atlantic Classic Yearling Sale, which will take place at the Crapaud Exhibition Grounds on Friday (Oct. 5) and will get underway at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday afternoon will feature the best two and three-year-old stakes stars in the region. Post times for both cards will be 12:30 p.m. For more information, head to redshores.ca To view the harness racing entries for Thursday at the CDP, click the following link: Thursday Results Charlottetown Driving Park. (With files from Red Shores) The new Santro will be a replacement to the current Hyundai Eon and hence is the entry-level product from the South Korean brand's product portfolio in India. Not much was known about the car and a sketch of a concept named Hyundai AH2 is the only thing which hinted to the way it looks. Now, Gaadiwaadi has managed to get some details about the dimensions of the new Hyundai Santro. The hatchback is 3610mm long, 1645mm wide, 1560mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2400mm. The ground clearance, on the other hand, is a decent 160mm. At 235 litres, the boot capacity of the new Hyundai Santro is identical to that of the Maruti Celerio. To give a rough comparison, the Santro is wider than the Celerio but similarly tall. Even though expected to have the old tall-boy design, the new Santro should be proportioned similarly to the Celerio. Powering the car is a 1.1-litre four-cylinder petrol engine which makes around 68bhp and 99Nm of torque. The engine will be mated to either a 5-speed manual or its respective AMT unit a first for Hyundai. The Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) system, developed specifically for the Indian market, will be dubbed as Smart Auto'. Also Read: Maruti Vitara Brezza Wins South India's Biggest Motorsport Event With a mileage figure suggested as 20.3km/l or more, the 2018 Hyundai Santro seems to offer less running costs too. A CNG version will be available but not on all markets. The new Hyundai Santro, as per reports, will come in seven colour choices: Silver, Stardust, Marina Blue, Fiery Red, Diana Green and Imperial Beige. Safety features such as a driver side airbag, ABS and EBD will come as standard. The top trims will have dual front airbags and a touchscreen infotainment system which supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Once launched, the new Hyundai Santro will rival the Maruti WagonR and Renault Kwid. Prices are expected to start from around Rs 3 3.5 lakh ex-showroom. *all images shown are of the old-generation Hyundai Santro, except for the render. Thoughts On The New Hyundai Santro The previous-generation Hyundai Santro was initially a big seller and was one of the first small cars from a foreign brand to gain good traction in the Indian market. But the company had to discontinue the product at a time when a lot of small cars which offer more were available to buy; causing the sales to go low. Hopefully, the new Hyundai Santro 2018 will bring good revenue to the company, considering the amount of anticipation the market is showing. A number of residents from the Willow Grove estate in Dundalk, held a protest outside the town hall yesterday evening, where the Louth County Council Municipal District of Dundalk meeting took place. The residents were protesting the worsening conditions of the roads within the estate. Local community activist Oliver Morgan issued a statement last night, following the protest. In it, he shared the views of one resident, Mr Darren Murphy, regarding the situation. In it Mr Morgan said, "It is absolutely scandalous that the excuse which is trotted out by the council management when they are challenged by the residents of Willow Grove about the deplorable condition of the estate's road surfaces is "Sorry, your estate hasn't been taken in charge yet, so there is nothing we can do about your potholes". Morgan supported Darren Murphy's views, saying, "as has been pointed out by Mr Darren Murphy, a local resident, the council maintains the lighting and the fire hydrants, so how can these officials shirk their other legal responsibilities, primary among which is the "taking in charge" of the roads, footpaths and public spaces." Oliver Morgan continued, "willow Grove was built and finished by a private developer over 40 years ago and it is totally unacceptable that the residents who are paying their taxes, property taxes and car tax are being subjected to this. "I would be very interested in seeing a written opinion from senior counsel specialising in Local Government Law and Administration on this sorry saga. Mr Morgan concluded, "Given that a plebiscite which was carried out in 2017 was overwhelmingly supported and a motion was subsequently adopted unanimously at a meeting of Dundalk Municipal District Committee I believe that the time has come for the residents to stop being given "the runaround" and prepare to take the legal route by appointing a firm of solicitors and seeking a senior counsel`s opinion with a view to issuing enforcement proceedings." The Almac Group, the global contract pharmaceutical development and manufacturing organisation, is pleased to announce the successful inspection of Almac Pharma Services (Ireland) at its European campus in Dundalk, Ireland, by the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA). A spokesperson for the Almac Group explained that the news means that the company is "on track to employ about 100 people in Dundalk by 2019". "The successful HPRA inspection means that the company is a step closer to being able to start operations within the next couple of months. Almac is still on track to employ around 100 by 2019 in Dundalk - it announced that was the plan when the company purchased the facility back in January 2017 and recruitment will take place in the coming months," the spokesperson said. Almac Group previously confirmed that the premises secured in Dundalk as part of its ongoing global expansion strategy was successfully inspected by the HPRA in January 2018. This initial inspection provided Almac with the regulatory approvals to conduct QP certification of both clinical and commercial drug product from its European campus in Dundalk. Since January, Almac has made an investment of 10 million to establish state-of-the-art analytical laboratories and commercial packaging suites to ensure current and future client needs within the European Union are met. This recent inspection by the HPRA now enables Almac Pharma Services to support analysis of commercial drug product and provide flexible secondary labelling and packaging solutions for a wide range of finished pack presentations. Ian Markwell, VP of Quality, commented We are extremely pleased with this inspection outcome. Not only does this illustrate the strength of our Global Quality Management System but provides assurance to our client partners that we meet all EU regulatory requirements. Graeme McBurney, Managing Director, Almac Pharma Services, commented: This is a great achievement and reflects Almacs commitment to provide our global client partners with an uninterrupted service provision and seamless access to the EU marketplace. Regardless of the outcome of Brexit negotiations, we look forward to providing best in class, bespoke packaging solutions, from this new European facility. The Almac Group is an established contract development and manufacturing organisation that provides an extensive range of integrated services to the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors globally. The services range from R&D, biomarker discovery development and commercialisation, API manufacture, formulation development, clinical trial supply, IRT (IVRS/IWRS) through to commercial-scale manufacture. The international company is a privately-owned organisation that has organically grown over 50 years and now employs over 5,000 highly skilled personnel. Almac is headquartered in Craigavon, Northern Ireland with 17 operations across Europe, the US (Pennsylvania, North Carolina and California) and Asia (Singapore and Tokyo). Jinx Lennon makes a welcome return to the Spirit Store this month, to introduce a new show with Belfast folk punk legend Acoustic Dan. Taking place on Saturday 27 October, Jinx calls the music, the Cosmic Border Schizo Sound, because it is, as he says a more raw and righteous sort of sound that could only come from this part of the land and celebrates border existence. Tickets are available from www.spiritstore.ie and info@mcateersthefoodhouse.com. Jinx recently finished a summer of playing festivals, including Body and Soul, Indiependence, Knockanstockan, Arcdian Fields and Swellfest. This year's album Grow a Pair was a favourite with quite a few people this summer, with songs like GPO, Empty Aluminium Can (set in St Helena's Park), The Guns of Dowdallshill and Grow a Pair, going down a storm. Speaking about the new upcoming show, Jinx says, Acoustic Dan is a fine guitar man storyteller, and his Lagan side tunes are uplifting and heartbreaking in equal measures. Local harp player Sharon McArdle", he continues, "will also be making an appearance - she plays on the song The Newry Bird on the latest album which sounds fantastic. Keep an eye out also for new music on the way from Jinx, as he says he has a big bag of tunes to record as soon as possible, many of which deal with growing up in Dundalk. We can't wait to hear them! Enterprise IT Lead Generation Services Fuel Your Pipeline. Close More Deals. Our full-service marketing programs deliver sales-ready leads. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee! Learn more. Bias is a nasty beast. A market research class I took in graduate school focused on the identification and elimination of bias. My final paper was on an intentionally biased piece of research. It was far easier to introduce bias and then talk about the bias than it would have been to attempt to do unbiased work and defend it as unbiased. For that reason alone, the Trump administration's recent complaints that Google's search engine is biased are almost certainly true. The nature of the bias, however, has not been determined. It actually could be bias in favor of Trump (though the odds are against that because Google was so tight with the Obama administration and liberals in general). The perception of bias simply may be driven by the overwhelming amount of negative ink on the administration and a revenue-focused algorithm that pushes people to that volume. I'll share some thoughts on bias and then close with my product of the week: The Lenovo Yoga Book C930, announced at IFA last week, is one of the most innovative laptop/tablet products on the market. Why Bias Is Bad Bias is bad because it creates an unknown variation from the truth. A biased answer to a question is by nature not accurate. It results from taking reality through a filter that alters the perception of that reality and then produces a false conclusion based on the filter rather than the reality. For instance, suppose someone asks me what car to buy, and I say, "Don't buy a Ford, it stands for 'Fix Or Repair Daily' and all Fords suck." What I likely did was take my personal experience, based on ownership of a number of bad Ford cars, and use it to color my view, ultimately concluding that the brand was low quality. In reality, Ford's quality is in line with other similar car makers -- and often better, depending on the line. So, even if the best car for you might be a Ford, I've excluded all Fords from consideration due to my bias. My advice would be suboptimal at best. At worst it could influence you to make a truly bad decision. One of the most obvious places we see bias play out is in relationships. When we go into a relationship it is often with a bias toward our partner. We see the good, not the bad, which is due in part to the fact that in a new relationship people are initially on their best behavior. It's also because we downplay the bad or ignore it, focusing instead on what we want to see. Flip to the other side. During a breakup or divorce, our perception is 180 degrees different. Now we can see only the bad and not the good. That once angelic partner has become a close and personal friend of Satan. Both perceptions likely are biased. During the good times, the partner wasn't all good, and when the relationship failed, the partner wasn't all bad. One of the ways to ensure better relationships is to do your homework on potential partners up front, before you become invested. What were their past relationships like? What are they looking for in a new relationship? Are they honest and transparent? Can you tolerate their family? Are your most important views, values and goals aligned? More typically, people are interested in whether prospective partners are hot or financially secure. Though these are factors to consider, they shouldn't override the others. Assuming that success is either a long relationship, marriage, or at least a lasting friendship, then doing the honest assessment up front should get you closer to a good match. At the very least, you waste less time on sure failures, and are more likely to avoid nasty dramas. Google Is Biased People create the algorithms that Google uses, which increasingly are considered AIs. Any bias those people have likely will be built into the algorithms because we don't see our own biases. We don't intentionally put filters between our brains and eyes, but they get there nonetheless, and the result is that our biased reality is our reality. A more common expression of this is that to us, perception is reality. The Google employees who build and test the Google algorithms for accuracy naturally are biased. From the standpoint of political bias, we should see a bias to the left in Google searches, given Google's history with the Obama administration and the fact that tech companies, including Google, generally tend to lean left. What makes this difficult to confirm is that the news media obviously is biased against the Trump presidency. You really can't blame them, though, because Trump stands out as pounding on media as dishonest. So even if Google were unbiased, the results from Google search would look biased, because of what appears to be an overwhelming bias in the news media. The big problem with Google, however, is likely not political bias but financial bias. We don't pay Google for our results. We aren't really the customer. In Google's world -- and this is the same for social media as well -- we are the product. The customer is the vendor paying to find out about us, so they can sell to us more effectively. For instance, if I want to buy tires for one of my Jaguars (yes, I have more than one) the search starts with a listing from stores with prices. Some do attempt to answer the question, but likely are biased toward the tires that provide them the best margins. The one relatively unbiased source, the Jaguar Forum, was down mid-page and overwhelmed by the retailers. If Google were unbiased, it would rank the Jaguar Forum and sources like Consumer Reports toward the top, because, odds are good that they'd be a ton less biased than companies that are tying to sell me whatever tire they have overstocked. Now having the best tire does have an impact on your life. It can make the difference between avoiding an accident and dying in one. I should point out that this isn't always the case, however. If you do a search on "best ways to lose weight," for instance, Google does seem to put the independent sources up front, and it isn't until the second page that you suddenly seem to get overwhelmed by biased vendor links. On politics it gets interesting. If you search on just the names "Trump Clinton" you are overwhelmed with negative Trump stories. To be clear, it does look like the stories out there are overwhelmingly negative except for those from Fox, which don't show up at all on the first page (at least they didn't when I tried it). However, we also know that Fox is one of the most powerful news organizations in America, so its stories should have shown up on the first page. If they don't appear, then what else from the conservative side are we missing? You can see this if you just add the word "Fox" to Trump and Clinton. Granted, that is obviously biased toward Fox, but you suddenly see stories that should have come up in the more generic search. We know that conservative interests largely align with Fox while liberal positions are spread across a wider group of news suppliers. That should have pushed the Fox coverage to the top if the algorithm were based on general interest, but it didn't. I'm a conservative myself. Given that these results should have been biased toward my interests and not away from them, it appears to confirm the likelihood that Google's search engine algorithm has a goal other than meeting my personal needs and interests. Now I'm not suggesting any of these news sources are unbiased, the chart I link to above clearly shows they aren't. However, we are focused on Google search and not the news services right now. It appears that Google's bias is stronger politically than it is financially, because people don't like to look at information that disagrees with their world view. Were Google exclusively, or mostly, revenue-driven, it likely would just give me Fox results (still bias, but driven by the need for profit rather than a political agenda). Back to Bias Being Bad Regardless of whether the bias is financial or political, it is not in our best interests because search results lead to decisions. Ideally, we should be getting the closest thing to the truth that Google can deliver. That doesn't appear to be the case, at least when it comes to politics or car tires. Now that would suggest the need for substantial government oversight, but how do we ensure that those doing the oversight aren't swapping Google's bias for their own? A bunch of Republican moderators would result in an all Fox result, and a bunch of Democrats would favor MSNBC. Neither would be better. That doesn't mean we don't need to prioritize fixing the problem. As we increasingly look to AIs to provide for our care and survival, it's critical that we make sure those AIs have our best interests as their primary drivers. So far, as Google and Facebook showcase, we have failed to implement the proper protections and assurances. Wrapping Up: Perhaps IBM Is the Answer When it comes to getting ahead of this, the one company that truly stands out is IBM, which earlier this year issued a series of internal edicts: Transparency and Trust in the Cognitive Era. Basically, they are rules to prevent IBM from developing technology that was counter to the interests of the people who used it. Before Google gets regulated, which now may be a foregone conclusion, the company likely should create a similar list and take it far more seriously than its old "don't be evil" motto. We users may be Google's product, but if its focus on creating political or financial bias harms us, then it likely harms Google as well. This class of Google users includes investors, employees, and the employees of the firms that fund Google. Put differently, Google still has to live in the world it screws up. What I'm suggesting is that if avoiding regulation isn't enough of a motivator to shift to IBM's more human-centric path, then maybe staying alive might be. Just saying... There are two products that really stand out to me as the only true 2-in-1 computers in market. They are the Surface Go and the Yoga Book. What makes them fit into this category better than others is their size and weight. Both are light enough and small enough to be considered a tablet (we know from surveys that most people will not accept a tablet that has an 11-inch or larger screen or a carry weight of much over a pound. The first Yoga Book stood out because of its more versatile flat keyboard that could work as a digitizer, but that keyboard was too strange and limited for most. Instead of that odd flat keyboard, the just-announced Yoga Book C930 has an ePaper display with touch capability and haptics. This allows you to not only write and draw on the keyboard but see what you drew on the keyboard as well. Lenovo Yoga Book C930 In addition, the ePaper display makes for a better high-contrast reading platform than any LCD or OLED screen can, and ePaper uses a tiny fraction of the power an LED screen consumes. Better with the WAN option so that you are always connected, the Yoga Book C930 really sets the bar in terms of innovation and delivers on the promise of a true 2-in-1. It is a legitimate, though small, laptop as well as a tablet you will be comfortable using as a tablet. Another really interesting thing about the keyboard is that it can shift not only between modes but also between languages and key configurations, near instantly. The only note of discord is that it has an Intel rather than an ARM processor, which likely would have been more appropriate for this form factor. I expect Lenovo is holding out for the Snapdragon 1000 before making that jump. The Yoga Book C930 is arguably the most innovative notebook I've seen in some time, and as a result, it is my product of the week. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ECT News Network. Rob Enderle has been an ECT News Network columnist since 2003. His areas of interest include AI, autonomous driving, drones, personal technology, emerging technology, regulation, litigation, M&E, and technology in politics. He has an MBA in human resources, marketing and computer science. He is also a certified management accountant. Enderle currently is president and principal analyst of the Enderle Group, a consultancy that serves the technology industry. He formerly served as a senior research fellow at Giga Information Group and Forrester. Email Rob. Jim Campbell trainee Cloud Nine Fashion will look to extended her career unbeaten streak to seven this Friday (Oct. 5) at the Red Mile, as she is set to contest the last of five divisions of the $324,500 International Stallion Stakes (ISS) for two-year-old trotting fillies. Four divisions of the $245,000 ISS for two-year-old pacing fillies will also highlight the program. Last week in her division of the Bluegrass Stakes, the Fashion Farms LLC-owned Cloud Nine Fashion recorded a one-length, 1:55.3 victory from Post 10. Cloud Nine Fashion, who is scheduled to start from Post 3, is set to face off against The Ice Dutchess, who will head into the ISS split red-hot and carrying a three-race win streak. The Muscle Hill filly, owned by Coyote Wynd Farms, also has wins in the $296,450 Peaceful Way Stakes and $357,450 Jim Doherty Memorial on her resume as well as nearly $400,000 in earnings. Tim Tetrick has picked up the drive on Cloud Nine Fashion this week, as David Miller has sided with the Linda Toscano-trained Chapter Seven filly Hanna Dreamgirl. The Ice Dutchess will have her usual pilot, Yannick Gingras, in tow. Opening the juvenile trots as well as the card, Princess Deo will start from Post 3 off of a 1:55.1 rail-trip victory in her division of the Bluegrass. Owned by trainer Noel Daley along with Deo Volente Farms LLC and John Fodera, the Trixton filly has recorded two wins from eight starts and $72,106 in earnings. Andrew McCarthy will drive. Doherty Memorial elimination winners Special Honor and Starita will meet in the second ISS division. Trained by Julie Miller for owners Brittany Farms LLC, Marvin Katz and Al Libfeld, Special Honor enters after an off-the-pace second-place effort as the favourite in her division of the Bluegrass. Special Honor, who has been a winner in two of her seven starts, will be driven by Andy Miller. The Father Patrick filly will start from Post 3. Trained by Joe Holloway, Starita has three wins from 10 starts and $129,223 in earnings for owners Val DOr Farms and Ted Gewertz. The filly by Trixton finished second to The Ice Dutchess in her division of the Bluegrass, timed in 1:54.4, and will start from Post 5 this week with David Miller in the bike. Having won her Bluegrass split in 1:54.4 as the even-money favourite, the Richard Nifty Norman-trained Evident Beauty will return to the Red Mile in the third ISS division. Racing for Melvin Hartman, Little E LLC and R A W Equine Inc., the Trixton filly has recorded two wins from six starts and has banked $146,332. She will start from Post 5 with David Miller at the reins. Kentucky Sire Stakes champ Whispering Oaks will contest the fourth ISS split off of a fourth-place finish to Cloud Nine Fashion in the Bluegrass. The Jimmy Takter-trained Father Patrick filly has accrued $232,094 in earnings for owners Brixton Medical Inc., Herb Liverman and R A W Equine Inc. in just 10 starts this season, three of which she won. Yannick Gingras will sit in the bike from Post 5. Four divisions of the $245,000 ISS for two-year-old pacing fillies will also highlight the program. Joe Holloways Heston Blue Chip filly Zero Tolerance, a winner of seven of her nine starts this season, will compete in the second division. Zero Tolerance will start from Post 6 in the second division of the filly pace. She has earned $241,291 for owners Val DOr Farms and Ted Gewertz. She charged through the stretch with a :26.2 final quarter to win her Bluegrass division by less than a length in 1:51, a lifetime best. Regular driver David Miller will bet at the controls. Having defeated Zero Tolerance in the $207,000 Kentuckiana Filly Pace at Hoosier Park, Warrawee Ubeaut will return to compete against the Holloway trainee. Trained by Ron Burke, the Sweet Lou filly has recorded five wins from eight starts and banked $269,768 in earnings for owner Burke Racing Stable, Phillip Collura, Jerry and Theresa Silva Stables, Purnel & Libby and Weaver Bruscemi. Yannick Gingras will drive from Post 2. Trainer Brett Bittle will try his filly Darn Tootn Hanover against Grand Circuit competition this week, as the Sweet Lou filly will jump from late-closing action at the Red Mile into the first ISS division. Having added lasix in her last start, Darn Tootn Hanover broke her maiden in a late-closing split with a three-quarter-length 1:55 victory. Corey Callahan will sit in the bike from Post 5 for owners Charles Keller III, Charles Keller IV, (E. Bittle) and Brett Bittle. Prescient Beauty and St Somewhere, who finished one-two in their Bluegrass split, will compete against each other once more in the third split of ISS. A homebred for James Avritt Sr., Prescient Beauty kicked off cover to catch speedster St Somewhere by a length in 1:51.1 as the odds-on favourite. The Gregg McNair trainee, who has recorded four wins from nine starts, has earned $178,537 and will have Doug McNair driving from Post 1. St Somewhere, a Ron Burke-trained filly by American Ideal, rushed to the lead from Post 9 and quickened the tempo before being outsprinted in the stretch to finish second in her rebound mile. She lost her previous start, the $225,000 New York Sire Stakes final, as the even-money favourite after having made a break before three quarters. A winner of three races from 10 starts, St Somewhere has earned $138,143 for owners Burke Racing Stable & Philip Collura, Jerry and Theresa Silva Stables, Purnel & Libby and Weaver Bruscemi. Yannick Gingras will drive from Post 3. Shes A Great Lady winner Tall Drink Hanover will enter the final division of the filly pace off of her 1:51.1 victory in the $454,300 Grand Circuit event at Woodbine Mohawk Park. The Tony Alagna-trained filly by Captaintreacherous has not missed the board in eight starts. Shes recorded five wins and banked $313,289 in purses for owners Alagna Racing LLC, Marvin Katz and Riverview Racing LLC. Andrew McCarthy will sit in the bike and will start from Post 7. The Friday ISS action will feature a variety of sponsored events. There will be three divisions of the Walner filly trot (sponsored by the Walner Syndicate) and two of the Muscle Hill (sponsored by Southwind Farms). Blue Chip Stallions is the sponsor of all four divisions of the filly pace, and has named a division for American Ideal, Roll With Joe, Shadow Play and Bettors Delight. Fridays 12-race matinee will get underway with a 1:00 p.m. first-race post time (EDT). (With files from the Red Mile) Chief Minister Hopes Brexit Negotiations Will Recognise IOM's Position David Liddingtom MP & Howard Quayle MHK The Island's Chief Minister says it's important that those negotiating Brexit understand the Isle of Man's position. Howard Quayle has been in Birmingham this week, holding meetings with UK politicians at the Conservative Party Conference. Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan and Health Minister David Ashford have been attending meetings with MPs. Energy FM's Shaun Moore spoke to the Chief Minister at the event. AUDIO Media Howard Quayle at Conservative Party Conference 2018 Tevir Group Silent On Future Use For Castle Mona Library Picture: Castle Mona Entrance The identity of the owners of Castle Mona Hotel in Douglas have been revealed. Tevir Group have confirmed their acquisition of the historic seafront landmark following an investigation by the Examiner newspaper. The company bought the historic building from the Sefton Group PLC for 1.21 million. A spokesman for Tevir Group said: "The Group recognises and respects the historical significance of the building and work has commenced to undertake emergency repairs to the property, which has lain empty since closing in 2006." "A further announcement regarding plans for the Castle Mona site will be made in due course, the current priority is securing the building and preventing further deterioration." The group has also purchased the former Zurich House - which in based on Athol Street. Judicial Watch: New Documents Show State Department and USAID Working with Soros Group to Channel Money to 'Mercenary Army' of Far-Left Activists in Albania Contact: Jill Farrell, Judicial Watch, 202-646-5188 WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2018 /Standard Newswire/ -- Judicial Watch today released 49 pages of new documents obtained from the U.S. Department of State about U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) funding for George Soros's left-wing nonprofit organizations in Albania. The documents deal primarily with the activities of Soros' top operative in Albania, Andri Dobrushi, the director of Open Society Foundation-Albania, who was actively engaged in channeling funding to what Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban calls Soros' "mercenary army." The documents show U.S. grant money flowing through non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that profess to promote "civil society," while in fact attacking traditional, pro-American groups, governments and policies. Judicial Watch filed a May 26, 2017, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit against the U.S. Department of State and USAID after they failed to respond to March 31, 2017, FOIA requests (Judicial Watch v. U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development (No. 1:17-cv-01012)). MORE: www.judicialwatch.org/press-room/press-releases/judicial-watch-new-documents-show-state-department-and-usaid-working-with-soros-group-to-channel-money-to-mercenary-army-of-far-left-activists-in-albania/ BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- Computers in the future could be more energy-efficient, thanks to new research from Binghamton University, State University at New York. Devices like drones depend on a constant WiFi signal - if the WiFi stops, the drone crashes. Louis Piper, associate professor of physics and director of materials science and engineering at Binghamton University, wants to make more energy-efficient computers, so things like drones could be responsive to their environment without worrying about a WiFi signal linking it to a larger computer machine. "You could put 5G and 6G everywhere and assume that you have a reliable internet connection all the time, or you could address the problem with hardware processing, which is what we're doing," said Piper. "The idea is we want to have these chips that can do all the functioning in the chip, rather than messages back and forth with some sort of large server. It should be more efficient that way." Scientists have developed "neuristor" circuits that behave similarly to biological neurons in the human brain, which can perform complex computations using an incredibly small amount of power. More recently, a vital component of this neuristor circuit was created using niobium dioxide (NbO 2 ), which replicates the switching behavior observed in ion channels within biological neurons. These NbO 2 devices are created by applying a large voltage across a non-conductive niobium pentoxide (Nb 2 O 5 ) film, causing the formation of conductive NbO 2 filaments which are responsible for the important switching behavior. Unfortunately, this high-voltage and time-consuming post-fabrication process makes it near impossible to create the dense circuits needed for complex computer processors. In addition, these NbO 2 devices require an additional companion capacitor to function properly within the neuristor circuit, making them more complex and unwieldy to implement. "One of the main problems we have with trying to make these systems is the fact that you have to do this electroforming step," said Piper. "Like with Frankenstein's monster, you basically pulse a large amount of electricity through the material, and suddenly it becomes an active element. That's not very reliable for an engineering step with fabrication. That's not how we do things with silicon transistors. We like to fab them all and then they work right away." In this study, Georgia Tech researchers created Nb 2 O 5 x-based devices that reproduce similar behavior of the combined NbO 2 /capacitor pair without the need for the added bolt of energy. Binghamton researchers verified the mechanism that was being proposed. This finding, said Piper, could lead to more inexpensive, energy-efficient, and high-density neuristor circuits than previously possible, accelerating the way to more energy efficient and adaptable computing. "We want to have materials that inherently have some sort of switching operation themselves, which we can then utilize at the same dimensions where we're meeting the end with silicon. The ability to scale and the ability to remove some sort of alchemy with regards to this electroforming process really makes it more in line with how we do semiconducting processing nowadays; this makes it more reliable. You can build a neuristor out of this, and because you don't need the electroforming, it's more reliable and what you can build an industry on." Now that they've verified the models, Piper and his team want to find out what's going on in the actual device as it's operating. "The real effort at Binghamton has been toward trying to model, from an atomic point of view, the nature of these states, how they arise from physics and chemistry, and also instead of just looking at the inert materials and then correlating it with the device performance, can we actually see how these states evolve as we operate the device?" said Piper. This researcher was supported by a grant from the Department of Defense. The paper, "Scalable Memdiodes Exhibiting Rectification and Hysteresis for Neuromorphic Computing," was published in Scientific Reports. ### PITTSBURGH--If you're looking for a needle in a haystack, it's best to know what hay looks like. An international team of researchers has applied this idea to the search for new pharmaceuticals, developing a technique that reduces the chances of simply rediscovering known compounds. In an article published today in the journal Nature Communications, researchers from Carnegie Mellon University; the University of California, San Diego; and St. Petersburg State University in Russia describe a new means of searching vast repositories of compounds produced by microbes. By analyzing the mass spectra of the compounds, they were able to identify known compounds within the repository and eliminate them from further analysis, focusing instead on the unknown variants -- the needles within the haystack -- that might potentially be better or more efficient antibiotics, anticancer drugs or other pharmaceuticals. In just a week, running on 100 computers, the algorithm, called Dereplicator+, sorted through a billion mass spectra in the Global Natural Products Social molecular network at UC San Diego and identified more than 5,000 promising, unknown compounds that merit further investigation, said Hosein Mohimani, assistant professor in CMU's Computational Biology Department and first author on the article. The algorithm that powers this molecular search engine is now available for use by any investigator to study additional repositories. In the past, mass spectrometry data repositories have been underused because it was difficult to search through them and because those efforts to date have been plagued by high rates of rediscovery of known compounds. "It's unbelievable how many times people have rediscovered penicillin," Mohimani said. Analyzing the compounds' mass spectra -- essentially, a measurement of the masses within a sample that has been ionized -- is a relatively inexpensive way of identifying possible new pharmaceuticals. But existing techniques were largely limited to peptides, which have simple structures such as chains and loops. "We were only looking at the tip of the iceberg," Mohimani said. To analyze the larger number of complex compounds that have entangled structures and numerous loops and branches, the researchers developed a method for predicting how a mass spectrometer would break apart the molecules. Beginning with the weakest rings, the method simulated what would happen as the molecules came apart. Using 5,000 known compounds and their mass spectra, they trained a computer model that could then be used to predict how other compounds would break down. Mohimani said Dereplicator+ not only can identify known compounds that don't need to be investigated further, but it can also find less common variants of the known compounds that likely would go undetected within a sample. ### In addition to Mohimani, investigators included Alexey Gurevich, Alexander Slemov, Alla Mikheenko, Anton Korobeynikov and Egor Shcherbin of St. Petersburg; Louis-Felix Nothias, Pieter C. Dorrestein and Pavel A. Pevzner of UC San Diego; and Liu Cao of CMU's Computational Biology Department. The National Institutes of Health, Carnegie Mellon and the Russian Science Foundation supported this research. New York, NY--October 3, 2018--Light of different colors travels at different speeds in different materials and structures. This is why we see white light split into its constituent colors after refracting through a prism, a phenomenon called dispersion. An ordinary lens cannot focus light of different colors to a single spot due to dispersion. This means different colors are never in focus at the same time, and so an image formed by such a simple lens is inevitably blurred. Conventional imaging systems solve this problem by stacking multiple lenses, but this solution comes at the cost of increased complexity and weight. Columbia Engineering researchers have created the first flat lens capable of correctly focusing a large range of colors of any polarization to the same focal spot without the need for any additional elements. Only a micron thick, their revolutionary "flat" lens is much thinner than a sheet of paper and offers performance comparable to top-of-the-line compound lens systems. The findings of the team, led by Nanfang Yu, associate professor of applied physics , are outlined in a new study, published today by Light: Science & Applications. RESEARCH VIDEO: https://youtu.be/-W5Rp-mFEyY LAB VIDEO: https://youtu.be/yLaRgTLWFgc. A conventional lens works by routing all the light falling upon it through different paths so that the whole light wave arrives at the focal point at the same time. It is manufactured to do so by adding an increasing amount of delay to the light as it goes from the edge to the center of the lens. This is why a conventional lens is thicker at its center than at its edge. With the goal of inventing a thinner, lighter, and cheaper lens, Yu's team took a different approach. Using their expertise in optical "metasurfaces"--engineered two-dimensional structures--to control light propagation in free space, the researchers built flat lenses made of pixels, or "meta-atoms." Each meta-atom has a size that is just a fraction of the wavelength of light and delays the light passing through it by a different amount. By patterning a very thin flat layer of nanostructures on a substrate as thin as a human hair, the researchers were able to achieve the same function as a much thicker and heavier conventional lens system. Looking to the future, they anticipate that the meta-lenses could replace bulky lens systems, comparable to the way flat-screen TVs have replaced cathode-ray-tube TVs. "The beauty of our flat lens is that by using meta-atoms of complex shapes, it not only provides the correct distribution of delay for a single color of light but also for a continuous spectrum of light," Yu says. "And because they are so thin, they have the potential to drastically reduce the size and weight of any optical instrument or device used for imaging, such as cameras, microscopes, telescopes, and even our eyeglasses. Think of a pair of eyeglasses with a thickness thinner than a sheet of paper, smartphone cameras that do not bulge out, thin patches of imaging and sensing systems for driverless cars and drones, and miniaturized tools for medical imaging applications." Yu's team fabricated the meta-lenses using standard 2D planar fabrication techniques similar to those used for fabricating computer chips. They say the process of mass manufacturing meta-lenses should be a good deal simpler than producing computer chips, as they need to define just one layer of nanostructures--in comparison, modern computer chips need numerous layers, some as many as 100. The advantage of the flat meta-lenses is that, unlike conventional lenses, they do not need to go through the costly and time-consuming grinding and polishing processes. "The production of our flat lenses can be massively parallelized, yielding large quantities of high performance and cheap lenses," notes Sajan Shrestha, a doctoral student in Yu's group who was co-lead author of the study. "We can therefore send our lens designs to semiconductor foundries for mass production and benefit from economies of scale inherent in the industry." Because the flat lens can focus light with wavelengths ranging from 1.2 to 1.7 microns in the near-infrared to the same focal spot, it can form "colorful" images in the near-infrared band because all of the colors are in focus at the same time--essential for color photography. The lens can focus light of any arbitrary polarization state, so that it works not only in a lab setting, where the polarization can be well controlled, but also in real world applications, where ambient light has random polarization. It also works for transmitted light, convenient for integration into an optical system. "Our design algorithm exhausts all degrees of freedom in sculpting an interface into a binary pattern, and, as a result, our flat lenses are able to reach performance approaching the theoretic limit that a single nanostructured interface can possibly achieve," Adam Overvig, the study's other co-lead author and also a doctoral student with Yu, says. "In fact, we've demonstrated a few flat lenses with the best theoretically possible combined traits: for a given meta-lens diameter, we have achieved the tightest focal spot over the largest wavelength range." Adds University of Pennsylvania H. Nedwill Ramsey Professor Nader Engheta, an expert in nanophotonics and metamaterials who was not involved with this study: "This is an elegant work from Professor Nanfang Yu's group and it is an exciting development in the field of flat optics. This achromatic meta-lens, which is the state-of-the-art in engineering of metasurfaces, can open doors to new innovations in a diverse set of applications involving imaging, sensing, and compact camera technology." Now that the meta-lenses built by Yu and his colleagues are approaching the performance of high-quality imaging lens sets, with much smaller weight and size, the team has another challenge: improving the lenses' efficiency. The flat lenses currently are not optimal because a small fraction of the incident optical power is either reflected by the flat lens, or scattered into unwanted directions. The team is optimistic that the issue of efficiency is not fundamental, and they are busy inventing new design strategies to address the efficiency problem. They are also in talks with industry on further developing and licensing the technology. ### About the Study The study is titled "Broadband Achromatic Dielectric Metalenses." Authors are: Sajan Shrestha, Adam C. Overvig, and Nanfang Yu (Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics, Columbia Engineering); and Ming Lu and Aaron Stein (Brookhaven National Laboratory, Center for Functional Nanomaterials). The work was supported by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (no. D15AP00111 and no. HR0011-17-2-0017), the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (no. FA9550-14-1-0389 and no. FA9550-16-1-0322), and the National Science Foundation (no. ECCS-1307948). Adam Overvig acknowledges support from the NSF IGERT program (no. DGE-1069240). Research was carried out in part at the Center for Functional Nanomaterials, Brookhaven National Laboratory, which is supported by the US Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences (contract no. DE-SC0012704), and in part at the Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) NanoFabrication Facility at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York. The authors declare no conflict of interest. They filed a PCT application (PCT/US18/34460): Nanfang Yu, Adam C. Overvig, and Sajan Shrestha, "Broadband Achromatic Flat Optical Components by Dispersion-Engineered Dielectric Metasurfaces," on May 24, 2018. LINKS: DOI: 10.1038/s41377-018-0078-x RESEARCH VIDEO: https://youtu.be/-W5Rp-mFEyY LAB VIDEO: https://youtu.be/yLaRgTLWFgc https://www.nature.com/lsa/ https://engineering.columbia.edu/faculty/nanfang-yu http://apam.columbia.edu/ http://engineering.columbia.edu/ https://www.nature.com/lsa/ https://www.seas.upenn.edu/~engheta/ Columbia Engineering Columbia Engineering, based in New York City, is one of the top engineering schools in the U.S. and one of the oldest in the nation. Also known as The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, the School expands knowledge and advances technology through the pioneering research of its more than 250 faculty, while educating undergraduate and graduate students in a collaborative environment to become leaders informed by a firm foundation in engineering. The School's faculty are at the center of the University's cross-disciplinary research, contributing to the Data Science Institute, Earth Institute, Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Precision Medicine Initiative, and the Columbia Nano Initiative. Guided by its strategic vision, "Columbia Engineering for Humanity," the School aims to translate ideas into innovations that foster a sustainable, healthy, secure, connected, and creative humanity. An international research team from the CRyPTIC Consortium has taken a critical step forward in the fight against tuberculosis: a large-scale genome analysis of over 10,000 pathogen strains has shown that genome sequencing can improve tuberculosis treatment. Furthermore: the method has the potential to completely replace time-intensive phenotypic resistance testing. The results of this study, led by the University of Oxford, have been published in the current issue of the New England Journal of Medicine. Tuberculosis (TB) is the deadliest infectious disease worldwide. According to a current report from the World Health Organisation (WHO) approximately 10 million people contracted TB and 1.6 million people died of the consequences of infection last year. A major problem in tuberculosis treatment is the increased occurrence of multidrug-resistant strains (MDR-TB), which are no longer sensitive to commonly used standard drugs. A timely diagnosis of this resistance is critical to treatment success. Classical resistance testing involves culturing bacteria in culture mediums containing antibiotics, which currently takes several weeks. Additionally, these tests are not used in many countries with high rates of TB. Consequently, many patients take the wrong drug combinations and subsequently have lower chances of being cured and of survival. More rapid and practical methods for resistance testing are urgently needed. The CRyPTIC study examined over 10,000 bacterial genomes from 16 countries. The Research Center Borstel (FZB), Leibniz Lung Center, has donated data from over 600 TB strains obtained in Germany, Africa and Central Asia and was involved in evaluating the data. The study, which was also presented at UN General Assembly's "High-Level Meeting on Ending TB" on 26 September 2018 in New York, shows that changes in pathogen genomes can be used to very precisely predict resistance to the standard drugs, also known as first line drugs. Genome sequencing can precisely and individually determine the required drug combinations and save resources used in standard resistance testing. The FZB researchers are also working on establishing genome analysis in reference laboratories in central Asia and Africa. "The study data enables new concepts for TB diagnostics to be developed. Additionally, standard resistance testing for commonly used drugs could soon be replaced by genome based methods. This is a milestone and a paradigm shift in the fight against MDR-TB", says Stefan Niemann, head of the CRyPTIC study at the FZB and Coordinator of the research field "Tuberculosis" at the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF). In England, the Netherlands and at the Wadsworth Center for Public Health in New York, the results have already led to a decrease in the use of bacterial cultures for resistance testing and a start to treatment that is solely based on genome sequencing results. In Germany, planning for a pilot study to evaluate the nationwide suitability of genome sequencing for diagnostics and surveillance is also currently underway at the Robert Koch Institute and the FZB. "However, a successful fight against multidrug-resistant tuberculosis requires several pillars. These are currently being worked on at the Leibniz Science Campus "Evolutionary Medicine of the Lung, EvoLUNG", at the German Center for Infection Research and the Cluster of Excellence Inflammation at Interfaces," says Stefan Niemann. ### WASHINGTON -- The first large U.S. study of cognition in older breast cancer patients found that within the first two years after diagnosis and treatment, most women do not experience cancer-related cognitive problems. Researchers also observed a troubling trend that needs further exploration--the small sub-set of women who experienced cognitive decline were unique in having the APOE4 gene, and this effect was most pronounced after chemotherapy. This gene has been found to substantially increase risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Results of this study, comparing hundreds of breast cancer patients ages 60 to 98 before and after treatment to a matched group of cancer-free older women "are good news for the majority of breast cancer patients who worry about potential long-lasting cognitive effects of treatment,"says the study's lead researcher and geriatrician Jeanne Mandelblatt, MD, MPH, professor of oncology at Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. The study is published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. "Our study suggests that for most older breast cancer patients, chemotherapy and hormonal treatments do not have major adverse effects on cognitive function, at least as measured by our current tests," she says. Mandelblatt explains that cognitive function is a concern for older individuals who face multiple forces that can lead to problems with memory and other cognitive abilities. Some patients report difficulties remembering things, or taking longer to do daily tasks after their cancer and its treatments, even after considering other factors, she says. "But this phenomenon has not been well studied in older women who have been treated for breast cancer, a group that may be more vulnerable to cognitive problems based on multiple chronic diseases and aging processes," she adds. "In this study, patients who were more likely to have cognitive issues were a small group who have one or two copies of the APOE4 gene, but the data are inconclusive and we are examining this more thoroughly," Mandelblatt says. Researchers found that these patients tended to show a steady decline in cognitive function test scores after chemotherapy compared to APOE4-negative patients, and non-cancer participants. "It is not that the chemotherapy causes Alzheimer's disease, but that these patients may be at risk for both cancer-related cognitive problems and Alzheimer's -- perhaps through a process of accelerated aging or other shared disease processes," Mandelblatt says. She adds that the apparent interaction of APOE4 and breast cancer chemotherapy will be of interest to the many scientists who research the basis of neurodegeneration. Still, Mandelblatt stresses that this early finding was suggestive and needs to be verified in additional studies that include more breast cancer patients with the APOE4 gene who are exposed to chemotherapy. Only 20-25 percent of individuals in the population are APOE4-positive, and fewer than 30% of older breast cancer patients routinely receive chemotherapy. If the findings are replicated and extended, then genotyping could be useful when breast cancer patients discuss treatment options with their oncologists, Mandelblatt says. "In any case, all patients should discuss any concerns about cognitive issues during and after treatment with their care team." The research being reported is part of the ongoing Thinking and Living with Cancer (TLC) study, the largest prospective, controlled study of cognitive function among older breast cancer patients. This particular report included 344 newly diagnosed women with non-metastatic breast cancer and 347 non-cancer controls. As a way to tease out effects of treatment on cognitive function, the groups were matched in terms of age, general health status, race, education, lifestyle, and other factors. No one had any cognitive problems or dementia at the start of the study. Both groups of participants were given a battery of 13 cognitive tests at the beginning of the study (before patients were treated with chemo- or hormonal therapy), and 12 and 24 months later. About 95% of participants in each group provided biospecimens for APOE4 testing. The neuropsychological tests measured attention, processing speed, executive function, and learning and memory. Participants also filled out self-assessments of their cognitive function. ### Mandelblatt notes that the TLC study would not have been possible without the participation of the women who contributed their time to help other future women like themselves. Participating centers included Georgetown University, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, MedStar Washington Hospital Center (and affiliated community practices) in the Washington, DC area; Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York; Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa; City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center in Los Angeles; John Theurer Cancer Center/Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack, N.J.; Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis; and University of California at Los Angeles. Co-authors include co-senior investigators Andrew J. Saykin, PsyD, Indiana University School of Medicine and Tim Ahles, PhD, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Gheorghe Luta, PhD, Xingtao Zhou, MS, Jonathan Clapp, MS, Wanting Zhai, MS, Neelima Denduluri, MD, Claudine Isaacs MD, Lindsay C. Kobayashi, PhD, and Asma Dilawari, MD, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center; Raymond Turner, MD, and John W. VanMeter, PhD, Georgetown University Medical Center; Brent J. Small, PhD, Heather Jim, PhD, and Martine Extermann, MD, PhD, of Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute at the University of South Florida; Arti Hurria, MD, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA; Brenna C. McDonald, PsyD, and Kelly Holohan Nudelman, PhD, Indiana University School of Medicine; Deena Graham, MD, John Theurer Cancer Center, Hackensack University Medical Center; Elizabeth Breen, PhD, and Judith E. Carroll, PhD, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA; Paul B. Jacobsen, PhD, National Cancer Institute; James Root, PhD, Weill Medical College of Cornell University; Robert A. Stern, PhD, Boston University; and Danielle Tometich, MS, Indiana University. Mandleblatt reports no potential conflicts of interest. The following authors have disclosures: Dilawari: Cardinal Health (Advisory board); Extermann: GTx (research support). Hurria: Seattle Genetics, Amgen Pharmaceuticals, and Genentech (consultation); Glaxo Smith Kline, Abraxis Bioscience, and Celgene (research support). Isaacs: Genentech (consulting and speakers bureau); Pfizer (consulting and speakers bureau); AstraZeneca (consulting and speakers bureau); Novartis (consulting); Nanostring (consulting). Stern: Athena Diagnostics (consultant); Psychological Assessment Resources, Inc. (royalties received for tests, including the Neuropsychological Assessment Battery). Turner: Biogen, Merck, Lilly, Novartis, Acadia (research support). All remaining authors have declared no conflicts of interest. This research was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health (R01CA129769, R35 CA197289, P30CA51008,P30-AG13846, P30AG10133, R01 AG19771, R01LM01136, T32CA117865 and F31CA220964) to support various investigators and by the American Cancer Society. About Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center is designated by the National Cancer Institute as a comprehensive cancer center -- the only cancer center of its kind in the Washington, D.C. area. A part of Georgetown University Medical Center and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Georgetown Lombardi seeks to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer through innovative basic and clinical research, patient care, community education and outreach, and the training of cancer specialists of the future. Connect with Georgetown Lombardi on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgetownLombardi) and Twitter (@LombardiCancer). About Georgetown University Medical Center Georgetown University Medical Center (GUMC) is an internationally recognized academic medical center with a three-part mission of research, teaching and patient care (through MedStar Health). GUMC's mission is carried out with a strong emphasis on public service and a dedication to the Catholic, Jesuit principle of cura personalis -- or "care of the whole person." The Medical Center includes the School of Medicine and the School of Nursing & Health Studies, both nationally ranked; Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, designated as a comprehensive cancer center by the National Cancer Institute; and the Biomedical Graduate Research Organization, which accounts for the majority of externally funded research at GUMC including a Clinical and Translational Science Award from the National Institutes of Health. Connect with GUMC on Facebook (Facebook.com/GUMCUpdate), Twitter (@gumedcenter) and Instagram (@GeorgetownMedicine). Apparently, bacteria do not care about math and they do not have in their curricula a calculus course. Yet they are able to exhibit a behaviour which is characterized by statistics which can be described by power-law distributions. For example, the intrinsically random time intervals during which a single flagellum of the E.coli bacterium, an appendage that works as a screw-propeller of the cell, rotates in one direction, may be distributed according to a power law. What is so special in the power-law distributions and the ability of bacteria to produce them? While most of random events in our lives can be described by well-known exponential or Gaussian distributions, some are not. Distribution of wealth, number of contacts in a social network or number of scientific paper citations just a few examples that may be well approximated by power-law distributions. One particular area which links the power-law statistics and bacteria is foraging and random search. It appears that in some cases searching for randomly distributed rare targets such as food or a mating partner may be more efficient if the lengths of the steps made by the searcher are power-law distributed. And indeed, such statistics of steps was experimentally observed in living organisms varying in scales from a single immune cell to sharks and humans. However, the question of how living organisms can generate this behaviour remains largely unanswered. According to Professor Mikhail Ivanchenko, Head of the Department of Applied Mathematics at the UNN Institute of Information Technologies, Mathematics and Mechanics, a new study published in Journal of Physics A: Mathematical and General suggests that bacteria are able to naturally generate power-law distributions in the rotation intervals of the flagellar molecular motor by utilizing their internal molecular reaction networks. Interestingly, there is no need for an external 'noise' of any sort; power laws appear naturally, due to the finite number of fluctuations of reacting protein molecules, a condition common to the intracellular chemistry. When all flagellar motors of E.coli rotate in one direction the cell swims almost in a straight line. Switching of the rotation direction of one of the motors reorients the cell in a new random direction and thus, in fact, creates a random searcher. The potential ability of a single motor to operate in a power-law regime may make the cell more capable in solving searching tasks. Researchers from the Lobachevsky University of Nizhny Novgorod, Max Planck Institute for Physics of Complex Systems (Dresden) and University of Augsburg, proposed a simple chemical reaction network based on the existing biological data on E.coli signaling pathway, which yields power-law statistics with tunable exponents, - Mikhail Ivanchenko says. The exponents are controlled by a few parameters of the reaction network, such as equilibrium number of molecules, sensitivities, and the characteristic relaxation time. This might be one of the first examples where our understanding of the origins of the power-law statistics can be linked to concrete biological counterpart and distinct physical mechanisms in the living organism. ### Researchers at MassGeneral Hospital for Children (MGHfC) have been selected to receive a grant of $1.5 million from the European Commission as part of an international consortium to study the role of the gut microbiome in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). GEMMA, which stands for Genome, Environment, Microbiome and Metabolome in Autism, plans to enroll 600 infants at risk of developing ASD at centers in Italy, Ireland and the U.S. "We are in the midst of an epidemic of ASD, which parallels an increase in other chronic inflammatory disorders," says Alessio Fasano, MD, director of the Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center (MIBRC) and chief of the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition at MGHfC. "But the rate of growth is much steeper for ASD, with an increase from one in 500 children in the mid-1970s to a staggering one in 59 in 2018." According to a study from the London School of Economics, ASDs carry larger societal costs than cancer, heart disease and stroke combined. Fasano suspects that environmental factors might be helping to fuel this epidemic. "We want to follow infants at risk of ASD from birth, so we can follow, step by step, their progress toward ASD," he says. Collecting stool, tissue and blood samples from children over a 5-year period - along with environmental data - scientists will study the interaction of the gut microbiome and its related mechanisms with the intestinal barrier and immune response. The goal of GEMMA is to identify biomarkers - measurable changes in the gut microbiome - that could predict development of ASD in genetically predisposed infants. Allan Walker, MD, founder of the MIBRC and honorary pediatrician at MGHfC, is Conrad Taff Professor of Nutrition at Harvard Medical School and an expert on probiotics, infant nutrition and the infant microbiome. He is lead principal investigator for the complex project that includes 16 organizations from the U.S., Finland, France, Italy, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. The consortium, which also involves researchers from Johns Hopkins University, will employ experts in genomics, the microbiome, metabolomics, epidemiology, animal research models, clinical study design, biostatistics and artificial intelligence to build mathematical models to predict who will develop ASD. "We have learned that gut microorganisms play a vital role in the development of the individual not only during infancy but even before birth," says Walker. "If we can learn how the interactions of the intestinal micriobiota might drive some of the changes that lead to ASD, we can develop personalized, preventive measures for this devastating condition." GEMMA participants include scientists from the European Biomedical Research Institute of Salerno, Nutricia Research, Medinok, Bio-Modeling Systems, Euformatics, Theoreo SRL, National University of Ireland Galway, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Salerno, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research, Utrecht University, Tampere University, Imperial College London, John Hopkins University and Massachusetts General Hospital for Children. Total funding for the GEMMA project is $16.6 million. GEMMA is one of three projects selected for funding by the European Commission as part of its Horizon 2020 Programme. Founded in 1811, the Massachusetts General Hospital is the oldest and largest teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School. The 1,011-bed medical center each year admits more than 50,000 inpatients, handles more than 1.5 million visits to its extensive outpatient programs at the main campus and four health centers, and records nearly 109,000 emergency visits. The surgical staff perform more than 42,000 operations annually, and the MGH Vincent Obstetrics Service delivers nearly 3,900 babies a year. The largest nongovernment employer in the city of Boston, the MGH has more than 25,600 employees, including more than 5,000 registered nurses. MGH conducts the largest hospital-based research program in the United States, with an annual research budget of more than $900 million. MGH and Brigham and Women's Hospital are founding members of Partners HealthCare System, a Boston-based integrated health care delivery system. In 2003, MGH became the first hospital in the state to be awarded Magnet designation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. In August 2018, the MGH was once again named to the Honor Roll in the U.S. News & World Report list of "America's Best Hospitals." ### BOZEMAN - As bark beetles continue to devour sickly pine forests, a Montana State University plant physiologist and ecologist wants to better understand how trees are able to defend themselves amidst a warming climate, drought conditions and hungry insects. Amy Trowbridge, assistant professor in the Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences in MSU's College of Agriculture, received a $1 million National Science Foundation grant aimed at investigating the mechanisms of tree death in pinyon pine forests in order to gauge the susceptibility of trees before bark beetle devastation occurs. The project has direct implications for better understanding the causes related to pine tree death due to severe drought conditions and bark beetle infestations - and for being able to predict which one comes first, Trowbridge said. "A majority of the research conducted on drought-induced large-scale forest die-off either occurs on the environmental side (climate impacts on tree carbon and water relations) or the entomological side (climate impacts on bark beetles)," Trowbridge said. "There's a big gap in our knowledge when it comes to understanding what's happening with tree chemical defenses and how all three areas interact. We want to understand how the tree as a whole is responding to these threats." Trowbridge will serve as principal investigator on the three-year grant, along with Henry Adams, assistant professor in the Department of Plant Biology, Ecology and Evolution at Oklahoma State University, William Pockman, professor in the Department of Biology at the University of New Mexico, and Nate McDowell, staff scientist at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. In order to investigate how pinyon pine trees physiologically respond to stressful drought and climate conditions and at what point the bark beetles arrive, Trowbridge and her research team will take "full diagnostics" of a tree's chemistry to understand how trees allocate resources to survive. "We know the bark beetle prefers stressed or weakened trees and that a healthy tree can generally fight off beetle invasions by using its chemical defenses," Trowbridge said. "But when a tree is already diverting resources to survive in drought conditions, it shifts its chemical defenses for a trade-off to avoid death; it's either going to focus on conserving water, or fight off the beetle, but not both. We want to understand what its priorities are and when those priorities shift." By creating different levels of drought severity and manipulating water availability in a pinyon forest at the Sevilleta Wildlife Refuge in La Joya, New Mexico, Trowbridge and her team will take "full diagnostics" of a tree's chemistry in part by "lugging large, heavy equipment through forests," according to Trowbridge. The team will measure a tree's photosynthesis, transpiration, starch and sugar concentration, and chemical defenses and will use metrics to determine how, when and where environmentally stressed trees allocate carbon resources. The goal, according to Trowbridge, is to gauge the "vulnerability threshold" at which a tree becomes more susceptible to the bark beetle. "Shifts in a tree's chemistry have important implications for the function of the ecosystem overall," Trowbridge said. "If we can use physiological metrics and identify when a tree is no longer able to sufficiently invest in defending itself, we can potentially apply that knowledge to other conifer systems to better understanding bark beetle behavior." That knowledge is particularly important for species monitoring and the ability to predict large-scale die-off for land managers and to assess the overall health of forests, Trowbridge said. According to the U.S. Forest Service, bark beetles have affected tens of millions of acres of pine forests with demonstrated negative economic and social impacts. In some parts of the country, forest deaths are outpacing the rate of regeneration, according to the USFS. Trowbridge, who has a doctorate in ecology and evolutionary biology from the University of Colorado, first collaborated with Adams in 2010, who at the time a graduate student at the University of Arizona studying how drought affects trees. Trowbridge was then awarded an NSF post-doctoral research fellowship, which allowed her to work with McDowell and Adams at the Los Alamos National Laboratory investigating trade-offs between tree survival and investment in plant defense chemistry. Adams said it's fitting he and Trowbridge are collaborating on research again years later, and at a critical juncture in regard to the science of forest health. "It's really validating to be funded at this level and in a field that we've been investigating for some time together," Adams said. "Trees are dying all across the west, and there (are) all of these scientists studying why. Having Amy take the lead as an expert in tree chemical defenses is really going to help us connect the dots so that we can understand the bark beetle and forest health on a massive landscape scale." Trowbridge is interested not only in generating new knowledge on the bark beetle frontier but is committed to sharing it was as well, said Tracy Sterling, head of the department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences. "Dr. Trowbridge actively seeks out public outreach events to reach audiences of all ages whether it be at the Children's Museum, a middle school, or a local 'Suds & Science' event for adult learners," Sterling said. "Her creative approaches stimulate an interest in STEM and empower students to be curious and confident in what they are learning." Trowbridge worked with MSU's Academic Technology and Outreach to develop ideas for teaching modules for rural science teachers in Montana, based on her NSF tree mortality study. Trowbridge and Jamie Cornish, outreach specialist with Academic Technology and Outreach, will train teachers on the lesson modules modeled after popular crime science investigator (CSI) programs. Graduate students involved in the NSF project will also rotate labs between MSU, UNM and OSU, and the students will present a seminar at their hosting university. Additionally, Trowbridge has reserved grant funds to mentor an undergraduate student from one of Montana's tribal colleges, who will train in MSU labs and support the NSF project. Trowbridge said she's particularly committed to mentoring and training Native students. She underwent a training hosted by the Pacific Northwest Circle of Success: Mentoring Students in STEM, an alliance funded by the NSF to increase the number of American Indian and Alaska Native students who complete science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) graduate programs. MSU is an allied institution with the program. "To me, the appreciation and understanding of natural resources and ecosystems imbedded in tribal nations is a no-brainer in terms of how we can parlay that cultural knowledge and expertise into our own research," Trowbridge said. "Many Native students have a knowledge reserve in that field already, which is something I think we need to pay more attention to. That kind (of) interaction is so much about what the land-grant mission is about." ### One of the weirdest objects in the Milky Way just got weirder. Scientists have discovered a new source of the highest-energy photons in the cosmos: a strange system known as a microquasar, located in our neck of the galaxy a neighborly 15,000 light years from Earth. The discovery could shed light on some of the biggest, baddest phenomena in the known universe. Their findings appear in the Oct. 4, 2018, issue of Nature. Among the coauthors are Petra Huentemeyer, a professor of physics; Henrike Fleischhack, a postdoctoral research associate; and PhD candidates Chad Brisbois and Binita Hona, all of Michigan Technological University. The gamma rays beaming from this microquasar, known as SS 433, are among the brawniest photons ever observed--about 25 trillion times more energetic than visible light--and were detected at the High-Altitude Water Cherenkov Gamma-Ray (HAWC) Observatory, in Mexico. Such photons are born only in the most extreme environments, including quasars, the massive black holes at the centers of galaxies billions of light years away. But if you wanted to find a gamma-ray birthplace closer to home, microquasars might be one of the first places you'd look. Microquasars behave like quasars, but in miniature. Quasars suck up dust and gas, while astronomers believe that SS 433 contains a black hole that sucks up stuff from a nearby companion star. They both blast out powerful jets of material in opposite directions. SS 433's jets extend over 130 light years into space. To put that into perspective, our entire solar system is not quite two light years across. Scientists have been studying SS 433 since the 1980s and have already detected electromagnetic radiation in the form of X-rays and radio waves coming from the ends of its jets. But they had not found any high-energy gamma rays until now and HAWC's technology made it possible. "The HAWC Observatory is the most sensitive instrument for photons at these very high energies, and it did not begin collecting data until 2015," Huentemeyer says, the HAWC science coordinator. The new evidence strongly suggests that the powerful gamma rays were produced at the ends of the jets and not another source nearby. "SS 433 is located in the same region of the sky as other bright sources that also emit gamma rays," Hao Zhou says, galactic science coordinator of HAWC and a lead author on the Nature paper. "With its wide field of view, HAWC is uniquely capable of separating the gamma-ray emission due to SS 433 from other background photons." Zhou is a former doctoral student of Huentemeyer and a 2015 Michigan Tech PhD graduate now at Los Alamos National Laboratory. In addition, the data show that the high-energy gamma rays were generated by electrons colliding with background microwave radiation left over from the Big Bang. That means that electrons in the SS 433 jets attain energies that are about 1,000 times higher than those achieved by the most powerful earthbound particle accelerators, such as the city-sized Large Hadron Collider, in Switzerland. This is a new mechanism for generating high-energy gamma rays in this type of system and is different than what scientists have previously observed. The finding is also somewhat mysterious. "These electrons are some of the highest-energy particles in our galaxy, and it's hard to explain how something that small got so much energy," Huentemeyer says. "However, the electromagnetic radiation emitted by SS 433 over a broad energy range is consistent with a single population of electrons." Scientists hope that studying messengers from this microquasar may offer a glimpse into the secrets of their larger cousins. Quasars are millions of times bigger than the sun and the brightest known objects in the universe. Most have been found billions of light years away, and because it takes light time to travel, studying them is like going back in a time machine; we see the object as it was billions of years ago. Because they are so far away, most of the quasars detected by telescopes have their jets aimed at Earth, so observing them is like looking directly into a flashlight. In contrast, SS 433's jets are oriented sideways, pointing away from Earth, which makes them easier to study. "The new findings improve our understanding of particle acceleration in the jets of microquasars," Zhou says. "They may also shed light on the physics underlying the much larger and more powerful extragalactic jets in quasars." ### The laser instrument that launched into orbit last month aboard NASA's Ice, Cloud and land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2) fired for the first time Sept. 30. With each of its 10,000 pulses per second, the instrument is sending 300 trillion green photons of light to the ground and measuring the travel time of the few that return: the method behind ICESat-2's mission to monitor Earth's changing ice. By the morning of Oct. 3, the satellite returned its first height measurements across the Antarctic ice sheet. "We were all waiting with bated breath for the lasers to turn on and to see those first photons return," said Donya Douglas-Bradshaw, the project manager for ICESat-2's sole instrument, called the Advanced Topographic Laser Altimeter System, or ATLAS. "Seeing everything work together in concert is incredibly exciting. There are a lot of moving parts and this is the demonstration that it's all working together." ICESat-2 launched on Sept. 15 to precisely measure heights and how they change over time. It does this by timing how long it takes individual photons to leave the satellite, reflect off the surface, and return to receiver telescope on the satellite. The ATLAS instrument can time photons with a precision of less than a billionth of a second, which allows the mission to detect small changes in the planet's ice sheets, glaciers and sea ice. Once ICESat-2 was in space, the ATLAS team waited to turn on the lasers for about two weeks to allow any Earthly contaminants or gases to dissipate. "It's very critical when you fire the lasers that you don't have contaminants because you could damage the optics," Douglas-Bradshaw said. "Fourteen days is well beyond the time needed for that, but we wanted to be safe." During those two weeks, the ICESat-2 operations team turned on and tested the various systems and subsystems of the spacecraft and instrument, and fired thrusters to start placing the satellite in its final polar orbit, approximately 310 miles (500 kilometers) above Earth. Before the laser was even turned on, however, the team eagerly awaited another milestone, Douglas-Bradshaw said. The door that protected the telescope and detector elements during launch had to be opened. The team had two chances to release one of two spring-loaded pins to open the door. This was successfully accomplished on Sept. 29. The following day, it was the laser's turn. The engineering team had been working with the operations team that controls the instrument on orbit, so the commands were ready to go -- first turning on the laser itself, waiting for it to warm up, and then issuing commands to put it in fire mode. The laser energy levels jumped up, and the device that starts ATLAS's sophisticated stopwatch was active -- two different, independent indicators that the laser was firing away. "We were all incredibly excited and happy, everyone was taking pictures of the screens showing data plots," Douglas-Bradshaw said. "Someone noted: 'Now we have a mission, now we have an instrument.'" Three days later, the ICESat-2 team had the first segment of height data, taken as the satellite flew over Antarctica. Computer programmers were up all night analyzing the latitude, longitude and elevation represented by each photon that returned to the ATLAS instrument -- and by 6 a.m., Tom Neumann, ICESat-2 deputy project scientist, was texting screenshots of the height data to the rest of the team. "It was awesome," Neumann said. "Having it in space, and not just simulating data on the ground, is amazing. This is real light that went from ATLAS to Earth and back again." When scientists analyze the preliminary ICESat-2 data, they examine what is called a "photon cloud," or a plot of each photon that ATLAS detects. Many of the points on a photon cloud are from background photons -- natural sunlight reflected off Earth in the exact same wavelength as the laser photons. But with the help of computer programs that analyze the data, scientists can extract the signal from the noise and identify height of the ground below. The first photon cloud generated by ICESat-2 shows a stretch of elevation measurements from East Antarctica, passing close to the South Pole at a latitude of 88 degrees south, then continuing between Thwaites Glacier and Pine Island Glacier in West Antarctica. Next up for ICESat-2 is a suite of procedures to optimize the instrument, Neumann said, including tests to ensure the laser is pointing at the precisely correct angle and lasing at the precisely correct wavelength to allow as many photons as possible to hit the detector. "It will take a couple of additional weeks," he said, "but about one month after launch we'll hopefully start getting back some excellent science-quality data." ### ICESat-2 launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base on the final United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. The spacecraft was built by Northrop Grumman, which also controls the observatory from their Mission Operations Center in Dulles, Virginia. A team of biologists has discovered that the distinctive genetic processes of early development help explain patterns of animal development in nature and across the evolutionary tree. Its findings point to a largely overlooked dynamic between the genome of mothers and their developing progeny--and one that underscores this genetic interaction as a primary influence on evolution. "Some offspring traits, such as size, are determined by the mother's genome, but other offspring traits are shaped by the offspring's genome itself," explains Matthew Rockman, an associate professor in New York University's Department of Biology and the senior author of the paper, which appears in the journal eLife. "As a result, there may be genetic mismatches between mother and offspring, which can sometimes hinder adaptation to ecological conditions." The study, the first genetic analysis of a transition from indirect to direct development, one of the most common evolutionary patterns across the history of animal life, was led by Christina Zakas, an NYU postdoctoral research scientist. Many animals develop indirectly, growing first into a larva that must feed itself before metamorphosis into its juvenile form. However, some lineages have abandoned this larval mode of development, switching to direct development--skipping the larval phase and hatching as a small version of the adult. Direct and indirect developing lineages therefore have very different offspring, with large differences in size and morphology between them. But how this kind of evolutionary transition happens, at the genetic level, has long been a mystery to scientists. In their study, the NYU researchers examined a small marine worm, Streblospio benedicti, which is found in New York harbor. The species serves as a good vehicle for examining the larva-to-direct-development change because some populations of this species make larvae while others develop directly. Using genetic crosses in the lab to isolate differences in the worms' offspring, the scientists sought to discover the genomic regions responsible for larval development. By tracking pieces of genome along the family tree of their experimental worms, they could distinguish among alternative genetic models. Surprisingly, their results showed that the genes that govern egg size are completely independent of the genes that influence larval development. "This genetic independence means that matings between populations that differ in developmental mode will generate genetically mismatched offspring," Rockman notes. "Moreover, because egg size is determined by the mother's genes and larval development by the offspring genotype, the special circumstances of early development create a feedback loop: the frequency of the maternal genes in a population creates its own selection pressure for matching offspring genes." The findings, then, suggest a previously unexplored mechanism shaping development in this and other species. "Different ecological circumstances favor one approach or the other, but our results show that in this species the effects of the maternal genome could override other selective pressures from the environment such as salinity, predators, or food abundance," says Rockman. ### The research was funded by the Zegar Family Foundation as well as by grants from the National Science Foundation (IOS-1350926) and the National Institutes of Health (GM108396-02). DOI: 10.7554/eLife.37143 A single bone artefact found in a Moroccan cave is the oldest well-dated specialized bone tool associated with the Aterian culture of the Middle Stone Age, according to a study released October 3, 2018 in the open-access journal PLOS ONE by Abdeljalil Bouzouggar of the Institut National des Sciences de l'Archeologie et du Patrimoine in Morocco and colleagues. The make and manufacture of the tool are distinct from similarly-aged sub-Saharan artefacts, suggesting a unique technological industry in North Africa. The tool was recovered in 2012 from Dar-es Soltan 1 cave, located about 260km inland from the Atlantic coast of Morocco. Upon close examination, Bouzouggar and colleagues were able to identify the origins of the bone as a large mammal rib with evidence of having been shaped and sharpened into a 122mm-long knife through a complex series of modifications. The layer containing the bone knife has been dated to approximately 90,000 years ago, approximately 55,000 years after the first appearance of the Aterian culture. This tool and the technology used to create it are distinct from bone tools of similar age in southern Africa but similar to two tools known from the El Mnasra cave site in Morocco which is also of similar age, suggesting a unique North African Aterian bone technology. Specialized bone tools are considered a sign of cognitive complexity but have been poorly-understood with the Aterian technological complex, so this finding represents a new insight into the development of modern human cognition. The authors also suggest that this new technology may have come about in response to changing resources around 90,000 years ago but note that more study will be required to support this. Silvia Bello, a co-author, adds: "Aterians were capable of a complex and controlled sequence of actions involved in the manufacture of specialised bone knives. Such distinctive bone technology implies the emergence of an independent modern techno-complex unique to the north Africa around 100,000 years ago." ### In your coverage please use this URL to provide access to the freely available article in PLOS ONE: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0202021 Citation: Bouzouggar A, Humphrey LT, Barton N, Parfitt SA, Clark Balzan L, Schwenninger J-L, et al. (2018) 90,000 year-old specialised bone technology in the Aterian Middle Stone Age of North Africa. PLoS ONE 13(10): e0202021. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0202021 Funding: Excavations at Dar es-Soltan were supported by Institut National des Sciences de l'Archeologie et du Patrimloine, Rabat, Morocco, University of Oxford (Fell Fund) and Calleva Foundation. The study of the bone tool was supported by the Calleva Foundation. The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript. Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist. Gas bubbles released by marine algae during photosynthesis produce sound whose intensity correlates with the degree of algal cover on coral reefs, according to a study published October 3 in the open-access journal PLOS ONE by Simon and Lauren Freeman, a husband-and-wife team of the US Naval Undersea Warfare Center and colleagues. The finding may allow a simple and rapid way to measure algal cover, which is one of the strongest indicators of stress on coral reefs. Coral reefs are noisy places, with sounds emanating from water movement, ocean creatures, and other sources. A previous study by Lauren Freeman identified a component of the underwater soundscape that correlated with the abundance of macroalgae (those that form leaf-like structures and filaments) present over the reef, but the mechanism responsible for the sound was unknown. To determine whether the algae themselves were responsible, the authors studied sound emissions from a tank of the Hawaiian invasive algae Salicornia gracilaria. They found that release of gas bubbles--a combination of oxygen released from photosynthesis and nitrogen--produced a "ringing" from the oscillations of the bubbles as they assumed a spherical shape in the water. The sound ranged from 2 to 20 kiloHertz, matching that from oceanic coral reefs. Bubble production and sound emission is not unique to this algal species, the authors note, and so the measurement of this type of sound in marine environments may be a proxy for algal and aquatic plant photosynthetic activity in general. If so, this may allow a rapid and inexpensive alternative to visual methods for estimating algal abundance, which are time-consuming and expensive. Simon Freeman notes: "We discovered that algae make sound by first listening to coral reefs, and finding a link between what we heard and how much algae had smothered the coral. Intrigued, we performed experiments with algae in tanks to verify the source, and how the sounds made by algae contributed to coral reef soundscapes." ### In your coverage please use this URL to provide access to the freely available article in PLOS ONE: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0201766 Citation: Freeman SE, Freeman LA, Giorli G, Haas AF (2018) Photosynthesis by marine algae produces sound, contributing to the daytime soundscape on coral reefs. PLoS ONE 13(10): e0201766. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0201766 Funding: Work was supported by NSF IGERT grant no. 0903551, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory section 219 program funds, National Research Council and American Society for Engineering Education postdoctoral fellowships and NASA grant no. NASA-14HYSP14-0003. Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist. Fossil teeth from Italy, among the oldest human remains on the Italian Peninsula, show that Neanderthal dental features had evolved by around 450,000 years ago, according to a study published October 3, 2018 in the open-access journal PLOS ONE by Clement Zanolli of the Universite Toulouse III Paul Sabatier in France and colleagues. These teeth also add to a growing picture of a period of complex human evolution that we are only beginning to understand. Zanolli and colleagues examined dental remains from the sites of Fontana Fanuccio, located 50km southeast of Rome, and Visogliano, located 18km northwest of Trieste. At around 450,000 years old, these teeth join a very short list of fossil human remains from Middle Pleistocene Europe. Using micro-CT scanning and detailed morphological analyses, the authors examined the shape and arrangement of tooth tissues and compared them with teeth of other human species. They found that the teeth of both sites share similarities with Neanderthals and are distinct from modern humans. There has been much debate over the identities and relationships of Middle Pleistocene ancient humans in Eurasia. The discovery of Neanderthal-like teeth so early in the record adds support to the suggestion of an early divergence of the Neanderthal lineage from our own, around the Early-Middle Pleistocene transition. The teeth are also notably different from other teeth known from this time in Eurasia, suggesting that there may have been multiple human lineages populating the region at this time, adding to a growing list of evidence that the Middle Pleistocene was a time of more complex human evolution than previously recognized. Zanolli adds: "The remains from Fontana Ranuccio and Visogliano represent among the oldest human fossil remains testifying to a peopling phase of the Italian Peninsula. Our analyses of the tooth internal structural organization reveal a Neanderthal-like signature, also resembling the condition shown by the contemporary assemblage from Atapuerca Sima de los Huesos, indicating that an overall Neanderthal morphological dental template was preconfigured in Western Europe at least 430 to 450 ka ago." ### In your coverage please use this URL to provide access to the freely available article in PLOS ONE: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0189773 Citation: Zanolli C, Martinon-Torres M, Bernardini F, Boschian G, Coppa A, Dreossi D, et al. (2018) The Middle Pleistocene (MIS 12) human dental remains from Fontana Ranuccio (Latium) and Visogliano (Friuli-Venezia Giulia), Italy. A comparative high resolution endostructural assessment. PLoS ONE 13(10): e0189773. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0189773 Funding: Publication of this work was supported by the Centro Fermi (Roma). The ICTP/Elettra. EXACT Project has been funded by the Regione Friuli-Venezia Giulia. We acknowledge the excavation team from Atapuerca-Sima de los Huesos for their arduous work. The excavation, scanning and analysis of the Atapuerca sample has been funded by the CGL2015-65387-C3-1, 3-P project of the Ministerio de Economia y Competitividad (MINECO) and CEN074A12 from Consejeria de Educacion from Junta de Castilla y Leon Government, Spain. Gordon Getty (2013) and Dub Crook (2014, 2015, 2016) of the Leakey Foundation provided financial support to one of the authors (MMT). MMP has a predoctoral contract from the Junta de Castilla y Leon (BOCYL-D-20052013-14), co-financed by the European Social Funds and LMF had a postdoctoral research grant from Fundacion Atapuerca. Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist. Calibr scientists build and deploy new ReFRAME drug collection to find potential therapies against HIV, tuberculosis and parasites that causes severe illness in children LA JOLLA, CA - Oct. 3, 2018 - Each year, millions of people worldwide suffer from potentially fatal infectious diseases that often leave survivors facing a lifetime of related health problems. But what if drugs against such diseases already existed but nobody knew it? Scientists at Calibr, a non-profit drug discovery division of Scripps Research, are now exploring that question using an extensive library they've built of nearly all existing small-molecule drugs shown to be appropriate for direct use in humans. The Calibr scientists are using this collection, called ReFRAME, to identify existing drugs that show promise for treating major diseases. As a result of this ReFRAME initiative, two FDA-approved drugs are already being tested in clinical trials--one as a treatment for tuberculosis and another for the parasite Cryptosporidium spp., a major cause of severe diarrhea--within only a few short years of Calibr scientists discovering their utility. This is in contrast to the much longer timelines that often hinder new drug development. Now, in another early success of the project and demonstration of its power to quickly find much needed novel therapies, the Calibr researchers used ReFRAME to identify two additional compounds that in preliminary testing appeared effective against Cryptosporidium spp. The results of the new Cryptosporidium study were reported this week in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. "ReFRAME takes the concept of accelerating impact on patients through repurposing existing drugs to a new level, offering great potential for finding much-needed therapies more quickly and cost-effectively," says Pete Schultz, PhD, president and CEO of Scripps Research and Calibr, who is one of the lead researchers on the ReFRAME project. "The drugs we've assembled in ReFRAME have already been shown safe in humans, making them an incredibly valuable resource for tackling areas of urgent unmet medical need, especially neglected tropical diseases." To construct ReFRAME, Calibr researchers gathered data on more than 12,000 small-molecule drugs by combining three widely-used commercial drug databases (Clarivate Integrity, GVK Excelra GoStar and Citeline Pharmaprojects), which are typically used by pharmaceutical and biotech companies to assess competition and guide drug research and development. Calibr researchers also mined patent filings for drug candidates that had not yet reached these databases but that might hold potential as therapies for diseases outside their original therapeutic indications. With these data in hand, Calibr launched a massive campaign to obtain physical samples of all of the compounds, including purchase of about 7,000 compounds and de novo chemical synthesis of about 5,000 compounds, a project that involved around 500 chemists over an 18-month period. Sufficient quantities were generated to enable hundreds of laboratory tests over the coming years, both at Calibr, Scripps Research, and partner organizations around the globe. "ReFRAME was developed as a singular new resource for the global health drug discovery community and is the largest and most comprehensive repurposing collection available," says Arnab Chatterjee, PhD, vice president of medicinal chemistry at Calibr and lead researcher on the project. "In addition to consolidating compounds from multiple existing collections, we synthesized around 5,000 molecules that are not commercially available--from which we identified the two new hits against Cryptosporidium." Drugs that have been previously tested for safety in humans offer a major advantage over new compounds, as the time and cost of conducting preclinical trials in animals and early trials in humans represents a major hurdle to bringing new drugs to the clinic. Repurposing an existing drug can overcome these barriers, significantly lowering the cost and time required to develop a new way to prevent or treat a disease. Repurposing drugs, however, is not as simple as it sounds. Prior to ReFRAME, information on existing drugs was spread across multiple databases. Similarly, there was no single, comprehensive source of samples of the actual drug compounds, so collecting thousands of compounds to test against any given disease was a significant logistical challenge. The Calibr team also synthesized close derivatives of many known drugs and included them in the collection, providing an important resource for screening multiple analogues of molecules for therapeutic applications. "By combining three different commercial data sets and significant patent intelligence, we identified many unique compounds that have never been collected in one place," says Jeff Janes, PhD, a principal investigator at Calibr and coauthor on the paper. The first two drugs identified for potential repurposing using ReFRAME were the leprosy drug clofazimine and the arthritis drug auranofin. Calibr is collaborating with the University of Washington, who is sponsoring a Phase 2A clinical trial in Malawi, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to study the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and efficacy of clofazimine in the treatment of cryptosporidiosis in HIV positive patients. Auranofin is currently being tested as a possible treatment for tuberculosis in a clinical trial taking place in South Africa. In their new study, Calibr scientists used the institute's high-throughput screening facility to test all 12,000 compounds against Cryptosporidium, a one-celled parasite that travels to the small intestine and bores into the intestine wall causing severe diarrhea. Current approved treatment options for Cryptosporidium infection are limited to only one drug, nitazoxanide, which has modest potency and is ineffective in patients with compromised immune systems. Repurposing existing drugs was particularly appealing, as little drug discovery research targeting the parasite has taken place due to a lack of commercial interest developing drugs against the pathogen. In their study, the Calibr scientists placed the parasites in thousands of small chambers and dosed them with samples of the drugs to determine which compounds killed them. Drugs that killed Cryptosporidium in the chambers were then given to mice infected with the parasite, and two drugs, VB-201(CI-201) and ASP-7962, proved effective at treating the infections in the animals. The researchers were able to move from identifying the compounds to animal studies in about two months, a remarkably rapid advance from one phase of drug discovery research to another. "These two compounds show promise for providing therapeutics for targeting the parasite and not just the symptoms," says Case McNamara, PhD, a principal investigator at Calibr and coauthor on the paper. "If they prove effective at treating this disease in humans, it could impact the lives of millions of people worldwide." The Calibr researchers plan to continue adding additional compounds to ReFRAME and are hoping to find drugs in the collection that can be repurposed as therapies to other infectious diseases that are widespread in the developing world. They have also developed an open-access data portal to share the results of their ReFRAME screening experiments with other researchers to encourage additional follow-up and maximize the impact of the screening collection. Additional authors of the study, "ReFRAME: A comprehensive drug repurposing library and its application to the treatment of cryptosporidiosis," include Megan E. Young, Emily Chen, Nicole H. Rogers, Sebastian Burgstaller-Muehlbacher, Laura D. Hughes, Melissa S. Love, Mitchell V. Hull, Kelli L. Kuhen, Ashley K. Woods, Sean B. Joseph,H. Michael Petrassi, Matthew S. Tremblay and Andrew I. Su. ### The ReFRAME project was supported by grants from The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (GM089820). About Scripps Research Scripps Research is ranked the most influential scientific institution in the world for its impact on innovation. A nonprofit research organization, Scripps expands basic knowledge in the biosciences and uses these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve well-being. Scripps researchers lead breakthrough studies that address the world's most pressing health concerns, accelerating the creation and delivery of medical breakthroughs to better human health across the globe. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into the next generation of leading scientists. They shine even from billions of light years away. Intriguing and enigmatic, quasars are loath to uncover their secrets. Fortunately, we can find out more about them by looking at their star counterparts - microquasars. Many years of observation of the microquasar SS 433, carried out in the HAWC observatory, have made it possible to identify, for the first time, spectacular details of the processes responsible for the production of high-energy radiation. This is probably one of the most majestic views a man could ever see. Just next to a gigantically bloated, blindingly bright star lurks a voracious ball of "nothingness": a black hole that scrupulously engulfs the matter from its shining companion. These particles, falling to the horizon of events, form a flat whirlpool, part of which flows towards the axis of rotation of the black hole. From both poles, narrow jets of matter shoot in opposite directions. Collimated by the invisible claws of magnetic fields, like a giant's hairpins, they pierce the abyss of the cosmos, breaking off on the expanding shell of matter surrounding the system - the remnants of a supernova explosion. Welcome to the world of the microquasar SS 433, in recent months one of the main objects of interest of the High-Altitude Water Cherenkov Observatory Gamma-Ray Observatory (HAWC). The latest observations of SS 433 are of a pioneering nature. For the first time in the history of the study of microquasars, gamma radiation at such high energies has been recorded, and careful analysis of the data has led to surprising conclusions about the sites and mechanisms responsible for its production. The results of the research have just been presented in the prestigious scientific journal Nature. This spectacular achievement is the work of the international team of the HAWC project, which includes scientists from the United States, Mexico, Poland, and Germany. The Polish side is represented by the Institute of Nuclear Physics of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IFJ PAN) in Cracow. Quasars, active galactic nuclei, are some of the most unusual and at the same time brightest objects in the Universe. The driving force of a quasar is the supermassive black hole found at its centre, surrounded by an accretion disk formed by falling matter. Quasars are sources of extremely intense electromagnetic radiation, covering almost the entire spectrum, from radio waves to high-energy gamma rays. Being a type of galactic nucleus, quasars are by definition distant objects. The nearest quasar Markarian 231, powered by a pair of supermassive black holes madly spinning around each other, is in the nucleus of a galaxy 600 million light years away. This is not a distance that is conducive to carrying out high-resolution observations to facilitate an understanding of the nature of the processes taking place here. Fortunately, the rich menu offered to us by the Universe includes quasars in miniature. What a quasar does on a galactic scale, the microquasar does on the scale of the star system. Markarian 231's black holes are gigantic: the smaller one has a mass 4 million times that of the Sun, the larger one's mass is as much as 150 million times as great. The microquasar closest to us, SS 433, located in the background of the Aquila constellation, is a binary system with radically smaller dimensions. There is a very dense object here, probably a black hole with a mass of several suns, which is the remnant of a supernova explosion. It devours matter from an accretion disk powered by a stellar wind coming from a nearby spectral type A supergiant (a similar star, easily visible in the night sky, is Deneb, the brightest star in the Cygnus constellation). This picturesque pair, spinning around each other at an impressive rate of 13 days and surrounded by the W50 nebula, is only 18 thousand light years from Earth. "Both quasars and microquasars can generate jets, that is, very narrow and very long streams of matter, emitted in both directions along the axis of rotation of the object. The jets are created by particles accelerated to speeds not infrequently close to the velocity of light. In terms of speed, the jets from SS 433 are not particularly impressive: they reach only 26% of the velocity of light. What is more important is something else," says Prof. Sabrina Casanova (IFJ PAN), and elaborates: "Most of the observed quasars have jets that are to a greater or lesser degree directed towards us. This orientation makes it difficult to distinguish details. On the other hand, SS 433 was kind enough to direct its jets not towards us, but almost perpendicular to the direction in which we look. Therefore, not only do we have the object almost at hand, it is also optimally positioned when it comes to observing details such as the sites from where the radiation originates." In our galaxy SS 433 belongs to an elite group of just a dozen or so microquasars and is one of the few to emit gamma radiation. For 1017 days, this radiation was recorded at the HAWC observatory, operating at an altitude of over 4,100 m above sea level on the slope of the Mexican Sierra Negra volcano. The detector built here consists of 300 tanks of water, instrumented with photomultipliers sensitive to fleeting light flashes, known as Cherenkov radiation. It appears in the tank when a particle moving at a velocity faster than the velocity of light in water falls into it. Of key importance is the fact that some of the flashes come from particles generated as a result of high energy collisions of gamma quanta with the Earth's atmosphere. Appropriate analysis of the flashes in the tanks makes it possible to identify the reason for their existence. In this way, HAWC indirectly registers gamma photons with energies from 100 gigaelectronvolts (GeV) to 100 teraelectronvolts (TeV). These are energies up to a trillion times greater than the energy of photons of visible light and several times larger than the energy of protons in the LHC accelerator. During observations of SS 433, conducted at the limit of HAWC's resolution capability, scientists have managed to register photons with energies above 25 TeV, i.e. three to ten times higher than those reported in the entire history of microquasar studies. To the surprise of the researchers, the brightest object in the system in the range of high-energy gamma radiation was not SS 433 itself, but the places on both sides of it where the jets break off colliding with the matter rejected by the supernova. "That's not the end of the surprises. Gamma photons with energies of 25 TeV have to be produced by particles of even higher energies. These could be protons, but then they would have to have enormous energies at a level of 250 TeV. The data we collected, however, showed that this mechanism, even if it actually works, is not able to generate the right amount of gamma radiation in the case of SS433," explains Dr. Francisco Salesa Greus (IFJ PAN). In further work, data from HAWC were compared with SS 433 measurements in the remaining spectral ranges from other observatories. In the end, it was established that high-energy gamma quanta - or at least the majority of them - have to be emitted by electrons in the jet during their collisions with the low-energy microwave background radiation filling the entire cosmos. The above mechanism, described here for the first time, could not have been detected in observations of quasars with jets directed towards Earth. SS 433 has thus helped to reveal not only its own secrets, but also the secrets of the brightest lanterns of the Universe. ### The Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics (IFJ PAN) is currently the largest research institute of the Polish Academy of Sciences. The broad range of studies and activities of IFJ PAN includes basic and applied research, ranging from particle physics and astrophysics, through hadron physics, high-, medium-, and low-energy nuclear physics, condensed matter physics (including materials engineering), to various applications of methods of nuclear physics in interdisciplinary research, covering medical physics, dosimetry, radiation and environmental biology, environmental protection, and other related disciplines. The average yearly yield of the IFJ PAN encompasses more than 600 scientific papers in the Journal Citation Reports published by the Thomson Reuters. The part of the Institute is the Cyclotron Centre Bronowice (CCB) which is an infrastructure, unique in Central Europe, to serve as a clinical and research centre in the area of medical and nuclear physics. IFJ PAN is a member of the Marian Smoluchowski Krakow Research Consortium: "Matter-Energy-Future" which possesses the status of a Leading National Research Centre (KNOW) in physics for the years 2012-2017. The Institute is of A+ Category (leading level in Poland) in the field of sciences and engineering. CONTACTS: Prof. Sabrina Casanova The Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences tel.: +48 12 6628274 email: sabrina.casanova@ifj.edu.pl Dr. Francisco Salesa Greus The Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences tel.: +48 12 6628268 email: francisco.salesa@ifj.edu.pl SCIENTIFIC PAPERS: "Very high energy particle acceleration powered by the jets of the microquasar SS 433" A.U. Abeysekara et al. Nature (2018) DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-018-0565-5 LINKS: https://www.hawc-observatory.org/ The High-Altitude Water Cherenkov Observatory (HAWC) http://www.ifj.edu.pl/ The website of the Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences. http://press.ifj.edu.pl/ Press releases of the Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences. IMAGES: IFJ181003b_fot01s.jpg HR: http://press.ifj.edu.pl/news/2018/10/03/IFJ181003b_fot01.jpg Sources of very high-energy gamma radiation around the microquasar SS 433 surrounded by the W50 nebula. (Source: HAWC Observatory) IFJ181003b_fot02s.jpg HR: http://press.ifj.edu.pl/news/2018/10/03/IFJ181003b_fot02.jpg The High-Altitude Water Cherenkov Gamma-Ray Observatory on the slope of the Mexican Sierra Negra volcano. (Source: HAWC Observatory, J. Goodman) (NEW YORK -October 3, 2018) - In a study published today in Science Translational Medicine, Mount Sinai researchers describe for the first time a mechanism that may shrink collections of immune cells in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, called lymphoid aggregates, where HIV may lay sequestered. These findings may be of interest to scientists who are involved in researching the cure for HIV infection in light of the strong role that the intestines play in it. The study builds on research by the same team which found in 2004 that the intestines are specifically targeted by HIV at the earliest stage of infection. "We know from our earlier research that intestinal immune cells called CD4+ T cells are profoundly depleted during the earliest stages of HIV infection. Newer research from other groups has found that CD4 + T cells that migrate to the gut, and bear a receptor called a4b7, are highly susceptible to HIV," says Saurabh Mehandru, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine (Gastroenterology) at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the senior author on this study. Dr. Mehandru directs an immunology lab, part of the Division of Gastroenterology at the Icahn School of Medicine. The Mehandru Lab studies mucosal immunology as it pertains to immune deficiency states such as HIV infection and inflammatory disorders, with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) being a focal point. "Now, 14 years later, we have discovered how anti-a4b7 therapy can significantly, and rather unexpectedly, lead to the attenuation of lymphoid aggregates," continues Dr. Mehandru. This is the first report of reduction in GI-associated lymphoid aggregates by a therapeutic intervention in patients with HIV-1 infection. "As such, these data describe a new mechanism of action of treatments targeting the a4b7 receptor and define a rational basis for the use of these treatments in HIV-1 infection and beyond," says Dr. Mehandru. Study authors, led by PhD student Mathieu Uzzan, designed a study that involved a cohort of six individuals with mild IBD and concomitant HIV-1 infection receiving anti-a4b7 treatment, specifically vedolizumab (VDZ). VDZ has become a frontline strategy in the management of patients with IBD, in whom it has demonstrated strong efficacy and an excellent safety profile. The investigators studied immune cells in the blood and the intestines and describe the immunological and virological effects of VDZ therapy over a 30-week period. "The therapy was tolerated well, with only minor adverse events reported. We were surprised by the impact of treatment on lymphoid aggregates in the GI tract of patients with HIV-1 infection. We believe these initial findings could have significant implications for HIV-1 infection, perhaps in combination with other agents such as broadly neutralizing anti-HIV antibodies," says Dr. Mehandru. Research was facilitated by scientists at the University of Hawaii, the Wistar Institute, the University of Montreal, and the University of Minnesota. ### About the Mount Sinai Health System The Mount Sinai Health System is New York City's largest integrated delivery system encompassing seven hospital campuses, a leading medical school, and a vast network of ambulatory practices throughout the greater New York region. Mount Sinai's vision is to produce the safest care, the highest quality, the highest satisfaction, the best access and the best value of any health system in the nation. The System includes approximately 6,600 primary and specialty care physicians; 11 joint-venture ambulatory surgery centers; more than 140 ambulatory practices throughout the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester, Long Island, and Florida; and 31 affiliated community health centers. The Icahn School of Medicine is one of three medical schools that have earned distinction by multiple indicators: ranked in the top 20 by U.S. News & World Report's "Best Medical Schools", aligned with a U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" Hospital, it is ranked as a leading medical school for National Institutes of Health funding, and among the top 10 most innovative research institutions as ranked by the journal Nature in its Nature Innovation Index. This reflects a special level of excellence in education, clinical practice, and research. The Mount Sinai Hospital is ranked No. 18 on U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" of top U.S. hospitals; it is one of the nation's top 20 hospitals in Cardiology/Heart Surgery, Gastroenterology/GI Surgery, Geriatrics, Nephrology, and Neurology/Neurosurgery, and in the top 50 in six other specialties in the 2018-2019 "Best Hospitals" issue. Mount Sinai's Kravis Children's Hospital also is ranked nationally in five out of ten pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World Report. The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai is ranked 11th nationally for Ophthalmology and 44th for Ear, Nose, and Throat, while Mount Sinai Beth Israel, Mount Sinai St. Luke's and Mount Sinai West are ranked regionally. For more information, visit http://www.mountsinai.org/, or find Mount Sinai on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. CLEVELAND - (October 3, 2018) - Even before ancient Egyptians, the search was on for aphrodisiacs that stimulated sexual desire and pleasure. Today, although we better understand the science behind desire, there is still much to be learned. The Presidential Symposium at The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) Annual Meeting in San Diego, October 3-6, will provide a historical world-wide tour of the search for aphrodisiacs, ending with current evidence-based pharmacologic treatments for hypoactive sexual desire disorder. Much has been learned in recent years about how and why women get in the mood for sex. Yet, there still remains only one FDA-approved pharmacologic option for women diagnosed with hypoactive sexual desire disorder and in need of treatment to enhance their overall quality of life. Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg from University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and President of NAMS will moderate and speak in the session titled "Sexual Desire: Wired for Wild?" at the upcoming NAMS Annual Meeting. Dr. James Pfaus from Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, will also speak in the session on the neurochemistry of sexual desire and highlight the role of the central nervous system and the neurotransmitter dopamine in stimulating pleasure. Additionally, Dr. Kingsberg will discuss how music, particularly Rock and Roll, plays a role in wiring humans for desire. She will explain the epigenetic effects of music on sexual desire and how research and scientific advances have moved in parallel with societal changes, as has the evolution of Rock and Roll. "Healthcare providers need a better understanding of the latest research in women's sexual health in order to help the number of women affected by hypoactive sexual desire disorder," says Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton, NAMS executive director. ### Drs. Kingsberg and Pinkerton are available for interviews before the presentation at the Annual Meeting. Founded in 1989, The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) is North America's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health and quality of life of all women during midlife and beyond through an understanding of menopause and healthy aging. Its multidisciplinary membership of 2,000 leaders in the field--including clinical and basic science experts from medicine, nursing, sociology, psychology, nutrition, anthropology, epidemiology, pharmacy, and education--makes NAMS uniquely qualified to serve as the definitive resource for health professionals and the public for accurate, unbiased information about menopause and healthy aging. To learn more about NAMS, visit http://www.menopause.org. CLEVELAND, Ohio (October 3, 2018)--Light therapy has long been a recognized treatment option for depression. But can it help perimenopausal women struggling with depression and sleep problems as the result of hormone changes? A new study from the University of California suggests that it can by altering a woman's natural sleep/wake cycle. Preliminary study results will be presented during The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) Annual Meeting in San Diego, October 3-6, 2018. Over the years, much has been learned about the benefits of sleep and light therapy. Numerous studies have documented the therapeutic value of total and partial wake therapy, as well as light therapy, in treating depressive disorders linked to women's reproductive menstrual cycles. Other studies have shown that sleep/wake cycles (technically known as melatonin circadian rhythms) are often phase-delayed (shifted later) in women with perimenopausal depression. Putting the results of the various studies together, researchers in California hypothesized that depression and sleep quality could be improved in women with perimenopausal depression by phase-advancing (shifting earlier) circadian rhythms of melatonin in relation to the sleep/wake cycle. What they found was that through various sleep intervention and light therapy techniques they were able to significantly improve the mood scores of the study participants in as few as two weeks. "This study demonstrates that women with perimenopausal depression and sleep issues may now have a non-pharmacological and non-hormonal option that may help with sleep and improve their mood," says Dr. Barbara Parry, lead author of the study from the University of California in San Diego. "The results of this study will hopefully lead to additional research that will provide symptomatic women more options than were previously available," says Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton, NAMS executive director." Drs. Parry and Pinkerton are available for interviews before the presentation at the Annual Meeting. ### Founded in 1989, The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) is North America's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health and quality of life of all women during midlife and beyond through an understanding of menopause and healthy aging. Its multidisciplinary membership of 2,000 leaders in the field--including clinical and basic science experts from medicine, nursing, sociology, psychology, nutrition, anthropology, epidemiology, pharmacy, and education--makes NAMS uniquely qualified to serve as the definitive resource for health professionals and the public for accurate, unbiased information about menopause and healthy aging. To learn more about NAMS, visit http://www.menopause.org. CLEVELAND - (October 3, 2018) - Why do women typically live longer than men? The Keynote Address at The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) Annual Meeting in San Diego, October 3-6, reviews some old and provides some new answers, highlighting the latest studies on the protective effects of sex hormones and estrogen, as well as other tips for slowing the aging process by improving telomere health. Women have some natural physical advantages as to why they live longer than men. While this gender gap is not fully understood, it is well known that there are more reasons than just the typical riskier behaviors of some men, including smoking and drinking alcohol. It is thought to be, in part, due to estrogen protecting women from heart disease for a longer period in life. In trying to understand why women age slower than men, researchers have looked at the rate of cellular aging. One of the biological differences from birth is that women have longer telomeres (the endcaps of DNA strands that protect chromosomes from deterioration). Scientists have long understood the importance of telomeres in healthy longevity. More recent studies have focused on those factors that affect telomere length and what can be done to protect them. In her Keynote Address at the upcoming NAMS Annual Meeting entitled "Healthy Longevity and Telomeres: What Does Sex Have to Do With It?" Dr. Elissa Epel from the University of California in San Francisco will provide a detailed look at those factors that modulate telomere length, with special emphasis on women's reproductive health, hormones and mental health. Longer telomeres predict less cardiovascular disease and, in many instances, a longer life for both men and women. "Some experimental studies suggest estrogen exposure increases the activity of telomerase, the enzyme that can protect and elongate telomeres," says Dr. Epel. She warns, however, that telomeres can be shortened prematurely by stress and chronic or childhood psychological adversity. "We look forward to what promises to be a fascinating presentation with implications for slowing telomere attrition and age-related conditions," says Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton, NAMS executive director. ### Drs. Epel and Pinkerton are available for interviews before the presentation at the Annual Meeting. Founded in 1989, The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) is North America's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health and quality of life of all women during midlife and beyond through an understanding of menopause and healthy aging. Its multidisciplinary membership of 2,000 leaders in the field--including clinical and basic science experts from medicine, nursing, sociology, psychology, nutrition, anthropology, epidemiology, pharmacy, and education--makes NAMS uniquely qualified to serve as the definitive resource for health professionals and the public for accurate, unbiased information about menopause and healthy aging. To learn more about NAMS, visit http://www.menopause.org. PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Oct. 3, 2018 -- Two top scientists from the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), an affiliate of the City of Hope, will be honored today at the 2018 AZBio Awards at the Phoenix Convention Center. Dr. Daniel D. Von Hoff, TGen Distinguished Professor and Physician-In-Chief, will receive the Arizona Bioscience Pioneer Award for Lifetime Achievement. Dr. Von Hoff is being recognized for a career that includes pioneering new treatments for some of the deadliest cancers, his leadership of prestigious organizations, his mentorship of generations of physician researchers, and his work with innovative companies that share his passion for developing new treatment options for patients. Dr. Michael E. Berens, TGen Professor, Deputy Director for Research Resources, and Director of the Cancer and Cell Biology Division, is the Jon W. McGarity Arizona Bioscience Leader of the Year. Dr. Berens is being honored for his leadership and his contributions to building the coalitions that have shaped Arizona's bioscience industry. "Without question, Drs. Von Hoff and Berens are worthy of this much deserved recognition from AZBio. In terms of patient care, Dr. Von Hoff is second to none. Their contributions to medicine and science over the decades, in particular their careers at TGen, have led the way in many areas of precision medicine, much to the benefit of patients everywhere," said Dr. Jeffrey Trent, TGen President and Research Director. Presented by the Arizona Bioindustry Association and the Arizona Commerce Authority, today's AZBio Awards and Life Science Fiesta brings together Arizona's life science and leadership community to celebrate life-science innovation and innovators. Joan Koerber-Walker, President and CEO of AZBio, praised both Dr. Von Hoff and Dr. Berens: "The impact Dr. Von Hoff has made cannot be measured. It extends to every patient he has cared for and beyond, to the patients he may never meet, but who will benefit from the innovations that he has shepherded along the long journey of discovery and development, so that they have better options and more hope for a longer, healthier life. "Dr. Berens was the first person to help me see the promise and potential of Arizona's emerging bioscience industry. Great leaders are great communicators. He has spent countless hours advocating for our community, our bioscience industry, and for the patients who will benefit from the discoveries and innovations that translational research can deliver," said Koerber-Walker. Dr. Von Hoff, also is Senior Consultant-Clinical Investigator at City of Hope, Chief Scientific Officer at HonorHealth and US Oncology, a Professor of Medicine at Mayo Clinic, and a past director of the University of Arizona's Arizona Cancer Center. He received the 2010 David A. Karnofsky Memorial Award from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) for his outstanding contributions to cancer research leading to significant improvement in patient care. He is a Fellow and past President of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), the world's largest cancer research organization; a Fellow of the American College of Physicians; and a Fellow and past board member of ASCO. Dr. Von Hoff and his colleagues have helped develop more than 120 anticancer drugs, including many FDA approved agents now in routine use: mitoxantrone, fludarabine, paclitaxel, docetaxel, gemcitabine, irinotecan, nelarabine, capecitabine, lapatinib, vismodegib, nab-paclitaxel, nal-IRI, and multiple others. In recent years, his clinical trial work has led to the approval of three of the four treatments approved by the FDA for improving survival of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. Dr. Berens has relentlessly pursued collaborations that have led to the expansion of Arizona's bioscience infrastructure. Under the leadership of Bob Case and Dr. Berens, the Arizona Bioindustry Cluster was born in 1997. While at the Barrow Neurological Institute, Dr. Berens was the first to lead the cluster, and for over 20 years has been a leading voice in Arizona's bioscience community. He was one of the first employees when TGen was founded in 2002, after playing a key role in rallying community support of the now world-class genomics institute. As head of TGen's Brain Tumor Unit, Dr. Berens leads projects seeking to uncover new treatment targets for glioblastoma and pediatric brain tumors, to discover and develop molecular signatures to match effective treatments to individual patients, and to accelerate drug development through correlative analysis of tumors and their response on clinical trials. In addition, three recent TGen interns -- Maggie Zheng, Joan Kwamboka and Hayley Sowards -- who participated in this past summer's 2018 Helios Scholars at TGen program, will be among the 50 Arizona high-school and college students showcased at the AZBio event's Student Discovery Zone. All three attend Arizona State University. Zheng will present her study of drug evaluation to treat pancreatic cancer. Kwamboka will describe how to unlock the diagnostic potential of T Cell receptors. Sowards, who is a current academic year intern at TGen, will present her study of stress genes associated with corporal punishment. ### About AZBio For 15 years, the Arizona Bioindustry Association (AZBio) has supported life science innovation and life science innovators in Arizona. A key component in Arizona's life science ecosystem, AZBio is the only statewide organization exclusively focused on Arizona's bioscience industry. AZBio membership includes patient advocacy organizations, life science innovators, educators, healthcare partners and leading business organizations. AZBio is the statewide affiliate of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) and works in partnership with AdvaMed, MDMA, and PhRMA to advance innovation and to ensure that the value delivered from life-changing and life-saving innovation benefits people in Arizona and around the world. For more information visit http://www.AZBio.org and http://www.AZBio.TV About TGen Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) is a Phoenix, Arizona-based non-profit organization dedicated to conducting groundbreaking research with life changing results. TGen is affiliated with City of Hope, a world-renowned independent research and cancer and diabetes treatment center: http://www.cityofhope.org. This precision medicine affiliation enables both institutes to complement each other in research and patient care, with City of Hope providing a significant clinical setting to advance scientific discoveries made by TGen. TGen is focused on helping patients with neurological disorders, cancer, diabetes, and infectious diseases, through cutting edge translational research (the process of rapidly moving research towards patient benefit). TGen physicians and scientists work to unravel the genetic components of both common and rare complex diseases in adults and children. Working with collaborators in the scientific and medical communities literally worldwide, TGen makes a substantial contribution to help our patients through efficiency and effectiveness of the translational process. For more information, visit: http://www.tgen.org. Follow TGen on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter @TGen. Media Contact: Steve Yozwiak TGen Senior Science Writer 602-343-8704 syozwiak@tgen.org After suffering mass mortality for years due to infection with the deadly Batrachochytrium dendrobatridis fungus, or chytrid, some frog populations in El Cope, Panama, now seem to be co-existing with the pathogen and stabilizing their populations. "Our results are really promising because they lead us to conclude that the El Cope frog community is stabilizing and not drifting to extinction," said Graziella DiRenzo, a postdoctoral researcher in ecology, evolution and marine biology (EEMB) at UC Santa Barbara. "(Extinction) is a big concern with chytrid worldwide. Before this study, we didn't know a lot about the communities that remain after an outbreak. In some areas, it's still a black box." DiRenzo, a scientist in the lab of EEMB professor Cherie Briggs, has outlined her findings in the paper "Eco-Evolutionary Rescue Promotes Host-pathogen Coexistence," which appears in the journal Ecological Applications. She conducted her research while at Michigan State University and the University of Maryland. The chytrid fungus, also known as Bd, began its large-scale destruction of amphibian populations in the second half of the 20th century. Around the turn of the 21st century, the mass die-offs were connected to the fungus, which causes symptoms such as skin shedding and lethargic behavior. In El Cope, Bd took out almost half of the amphibian population within a few years. From 2010 to 2014, DiRenzo and colleagues visited the same site in El Cope to sample the frog population for Bd infection and assess the severity of the disease. The researchers' initial assumption was that the frog population was heading toward extinction, because Bd is a very virulent, generalist pathogen, DiRenzo explained. "Our findings did not line up with what I assumed prior to doing the research because, in our study, we found that either population seems to be relatively stable," she said. Among the challenges they faced during their survey was the difficulty of locating these tropical frogs, which are masters of camouflage. "Essentially you are looking for 2- to 4-cm green frogs on green leaves or brown frogs on brown leaves, which makes it very hard to see them," DiRenzo said. That, in turn, led them to develop a new model that could statistically correct for frogs that were present during their surveys but that they missed because the frogs were hard to detect. The results of the researchers' repeated data collection and statistical modeling led to their finding that while some frog species succumbed to the disease, others persisted. The researchers attribute this host-pathogen coexistence to "eco-evolutionary rescue." This occurs when either ecological and/or evolutionary mechanisms allow for the persistence of the host and pathogen. Evolutionary mechanisms, for example, include amphibians' immune adaption; among ecological factors are the reduced density and richness of frog species in El Cope -- fewer frogs means fewer opportunities for infection. Additionally, according to the paper, if some amphibian species (such as Atepolus varius) were "primary transmitters" of infection -- able to harbor and spread large numbers of chytrid zoospores -- then the extirpation of these species contributed to the decline of transmission rates in the community. Out of the 74 amphibian species noted in El Cope prior to Bd arrival, approximately 32 remain, a drastic change in the composition of the amphibian community in the area. It's too early to tell whether the stabilization of frog species in El Cope despite the ongoing presence of chytrid fungus will continue in the long-term, DiRenzo noted. Additional stressors such as climate change, habitat loss, pollution and invasive species present challenges to amphibian communities already struggling with Bd. "Approximately one-third of the world's 7,000 amphibian species are at risk of extinction," said DiRenzo, who is now studying how Bd interacts with other pathogens that affect amphibians and how the order of pathogen infection affects outcome. "Our results provide a glimpse of hope for amphibian populations persisting in the face of major threats, but it does not mean that either amphibian populations will rebound to the abundance they were prior to the threat, or that the ecosystem structure has not been compromised." ### Almost everyone will experience the loss of a loved one at some point, whether it's the break-up of a romantic relationship or the death of a close friend or family member. Most are able to climb out of their bereavement with time. But for the roughly 10 percent of people who suffer from what's known as "complicated grief," intense mourning can persist for years. Zoe Donaldson wants to find out why. "Imagine what it would be like to wake up every single morning and feel the same way you did the day after you found out you lost someone," explains Donaldson, an assistant professor of behavioral neuroscience at University of Colorado Boulder. With help from a colony of 100 prairie voles and a $1.5 million High-Risk, High-Reward grant announced Tuesday by the National Institutes of Health, Donaldson hopes to shed new light on the precise neural mechanisms that allow us to form close social bonds and gradually recover - or not - when they're severed. The findings could help inform treatment for people who have trouble forging emotional connections, such as those with autism, as well as those unable to rebound when those connections are cut. "If you think about some of the most important events that take place in life, they fall around social relationships. We fall in love, we get married, we have kids, we lose someone close to us," says Donaldson. "These studies will help reveal the biological basis of the emotions that help maintain those relationships." Donaldson focuses her research on prairie voles, small, furry rodents that - unlike mice, rats and about 97 percent of mammals - share a unique quality with humans: They tend to be monogamous. "Prairie voles in the wild will meet, mate and stay together for a lifetime," she says. Previous research by has already illuminated hormonal differences: Prairie voles have more and differently distributed receptors for a hormone called vasopressin than their promiscuous cousins, the meadow and montane voles. Oxytocin, a hormone associated with trust and empathy, has also been shown to play a key role in bond formation in both prairie voles and humans. Donaldson now wants to take such research further, using cutting-edge imaging techniques and instruments that allow her to stimulate certain brain regions of the voles as they interact to study precisely which neurons are at play when the animals form a bond, or that bond is disrupted. Such research is critically needed, says Katherine Shear, a professor of psychiatry at Columbia University who specializes in bereavement and reached out to Donaldson to suggest she study it. Shear notes that current antidepressant medications seldom help people who have trouble getting over the loss of a loved one. "Close attachments contribute importantly to many of the psychological problems individuals face, yet there is very little neurobiological research informing this question of what happens in the brain when we lose someone," says Shear. Donaldson's award (#DP2MH119427) is among 58 NIH Director's New Innovator awards announced Tuesday to fund "extraordinarily creative scientists proposing highly innovative research to address major challenges in biomedical science." "My hope is that by understanding what happens normally when we adapt to a loss we can gain insight into how we can facilitate or stimulate this normal adaptive process" she says. "Losing someone you love shouldn't mean losing out on joy for the rest of your life." ### Amphibian biologists from around the world watched in horror in 2004, as the frogs of El Cope, Panama, began dying by the thousands. The culprit: Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, a deadly fungus more commonly known as chytrid fungus. Within months, roughly half of the frog species native to the area went locally extinct. A new study led by University of Maryland researchers suggests that, within a decade, the species remaining in El Cope developed the ability to coexist with chytrid fungus. In a field study spanning the years 2010-2014, the researchers found that frogs infected with the fungus survived at a nearly identical rate compared with uninfected frogs. The results, published October 3, 2018 in the journal Ecological Applications, suggest that frog populations in El Cope underwent ecological and/or evolutionary changes that enabled the community as a whole to persist, despite severe species losses. According to the researchers, the results could mean good news for other hot spots of amphibian biodiversity hit hard by the chytrid fungus, such as South America and Australia. "Our results are really promising because they lead us to conclude that the El Cope frog community is stabilizing and not drifting to extinction," said Graziella DiRenzo (Ph.D. '16, biological sciences), now a postdoctoral researcher at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and the lead author of the research paper. "That's a big concern with chytrid worldwide. Before this study, we didn't know a lot about the communities that remain after an outbreak. In some areas, it's still a black box." DiRenzo and her colleagues returned to the same small, 2-square-kilometer field site in El Cope every year from 2010 to 2014. They broke the field site down into smaller, 20-meter subsites, repeatedly sampling the subsites several days in a row within a season. Each time, the researchers tested individual frogs for the presence of the fungus while assessing the severity of any disease symptoms. The researchers then entered this data into a statistical model they developed to assess disease dynamics in communities beset by an outbreak. The frequent, repeated sampling of individual frogs in the field allowed the team to minimize biases by correcting the model for any animals that were present but unseen. The results enabled the researchers to conclude that infected frogs were surviving at the same rate as uninfected frogs. This observation strongly suggested that the frog species remaining in El Cope developed the ability to tolerate the fungus and survive its deadly effects. "Our study found that, even though there are a lot of infected individuals, about 98 percent of them are infected at very low levels," said Karen Lips, a professor of biology at UMD and the senior author of the study. "We know that, early on, several species played a key role in spreading infection, like Typhoid Mary. But some of these species are now gone, so the entire ecosystem is totally different. It's almost not comparable to what was there before." DiRenzo, Lips and their colleagues suggest that the El Cope frog community stabilized through an effect known as "eco-evolutionary rescue." In this scenario, some species may have evolved tolerance to the fungus while other highly infectious, "Typhoid Mary" species died off and stopped contributing to the spread of the pathogen. The fungus itself may have also become less virulent and the frog community as a whole may have undergone other types of restructuring. The researchers note that, because the frog community in El Cope had been well-studied for years before the 2004 outbreak, the research site provides a rare window to assess changes to a frog community as a result of widespread chytrid infection. If the community has stabilized here, the researchers say, it is likely that other hard-hit frog communities elsewhere in the world may have undergone similar adaptations--even where disease has reduced the overall number of species and/or individuals. "The frogs of El Cope are not doing great, but they're hanging on. The fact that some species survived is the most important thing," Lips said. "If a species goes extinct right off the bat, it's out of options. We know how all these species responded to the initial invasion. Now we know how the survivors are responding to continuing infection. We know there are several sites in the world that probably went through the same thing. If enough frog species in a given place can survive and persist, then hopefully someday a vibrant new frog community will replace what was lost." ### In addition to DiRenzo and Lips, Ana Longo, a postdoctoral associate in biology at UMD, also contributed to this research. DiRenzo completed part of the work while she was a postdoctoral researcher at Michigan State University. The research paper, "Eco-Evolutionary Rescue Promotes Host-pathogen Coexistence," Graziella DiRenzo, Elise Zipkin, Evan Campbell Grant, J. Andrew Royle, Ana Longo, Kelly Zamudio and Karen Lips, was published in the journal Ecological Applications on October 3, 2018. This work was supported by the National Science Foundation (Award No. DEB 1120161). The content of this article does not necessarily reflect the views of this organization. Media Relations Contact: Matthew Wright, 301-405-9267, mewright@umd.edu University of Maryland College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences 2300 Symons Hall College Park, MD 20742 http://www.cmns.umd.edu @UMDscience About the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences The College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences at the University of Maryland educates more than 9,000 future scientific leaders in its undergraduate and graduate programs each year. The college's 10 departments and more than a dozen interdisciplinary research centers foster scientific discovery with annual sponsored research funding exceeding $175 million. Much has been written about what happens to mothers hormonally during pregnancy and after, but what about fathers? In a first-of-its-kind study, University of Notre Dame Assistant Professor of Anthropology Lee Gettler and lead author Patty Kuo, visiting assistant professor of psychology, focused on how dads' biology around the birth of their children relates to their parenting down the road. They partnered with Notre Dame psychologists and Memorial Hospital of South Bend to analyze testosterone and cortisol in 298 men on the first two days of their newborns' lives. "Studies like this give us an understanding of the value of having the dad present at birth and engaging with the baby," said Gettler. "What we see in the special days around birth is that dads' hormones -- how much dads are producing overall and how their hormones quickly change when they hold their newborns -- are linked to what fathers are doing months later. This relates to how men establish bonds with their newborns as well as with their partners and how they will co-parent." The large number of participants allowed Gettler and Kuo to examine how hormonal changes affect both new fathers and experienced ones. Their research, published this month in the journal Hormones and Behavior, demonstrated that dads whose cortisol levels were elevated while they held their newborns on the day of their birth -- either skin-to-skin or clothed -- were more likely to be involved with indirect care and play with their infants in the first months of their lives. They also tested men's testosterone on the day of birth and found that fathers' later caregiving did not differ based on those levels. However, if dads' testosterone was lower on the second day of the infants' lives, fathers were more involved in care. These findings align with existing studies, including Gettler's leading research. Labor and delivery nurses at Memorial collected saliva samples from participating dads who held their babies approximately an hour after birth. A UNICEF/WHO baby-friendly hospital that encourages skin-to-skin contact between parents and newborns, Memorial is not affiliated with a university. However, Memorial labor and delivery nurses were excited to partner with Gettler and Kuo because their study aligns with the nurses' goal to encourage interaction between fathers and their newborns. A follow-up survey completed by 180 of the original participants gave Gettler and Kuo insight into the level of care fathers invested in the first four months of their newborns' lives. Cortisol is sometimes referred to as the "stress hormone," but this study and others show that elevated cortisol is not always harmful, but helpful. "We tend to think of cortisol as a 'bad' hormone, but babies do require a lot of care and you do need to be vigilant," Kuo said. "We think that elevated cortisol is a sort of orienting response that can help the body prepare for child care." It's not surprising that cortisol level in dads is high on the day of birth. And, as long as it's not chronically elevated, it can have benefits, Gettler explained. Some data show that this is beneficial in moms as well, since it could make moms more prone to being responsive to their babies' cues signaling hunger or illness, for example. "When we were approached by Dr. Gettler to help in his study, we had no idea it would end up taking two years and 1,600 tubes of saliva," said Patricia De Stefano, manager of the Memorial Childbirth Unit. "Our nurses are very passionate about the involvement of dads in the birth process and were willing to do whatever it took to help children have more involvement with their fathers. We were so thrilled to participate in the study." ### Nicola J. Mason, BVetMed, PhD, associate professor of Medicine and Pathobiology at the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, and Aimee S. Payne, MD, PhD, the Albert M. Kligman Associate Professor of Dermatology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, have received the prestigious NIH Director's Transformative Research Award. The award is part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research program, which was established to accelerate the pace of biomedical discoveries by supporting exceptionally creative scientists with highly innovative research. Autoimmunity occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks normal tissues, thereby causing diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, and type 1 diabetes. According to the Autoimmune Disease Research Center at John Hopkins, at least ten million Americans suffer from the more than eighty illnesses caused by autoimmunity. Under the grant, Mason and Payne are looking to evaluate a genetically engineered cell-based therapy approach to treat pet dogs with naturally occurring autoimmune skin disease known as pemphigus. Dogs are one of the few other species to develop pemphigus naturally and the condition mirrors pemphigus in human patients. Evaluation of this approach to treat pet dogs with this debilitating disease may ultimately lead to breakthrough therapies for humans. "The successful treatment of autoimmunity in the family dog using this unique approach would not only be a breakthrough in veterinary medicine," said Mason, "but could also change the way autoimmune disease is treated in humans. We believe that this work may facilitate the translation of cellular immunotherapies for a broad range of canine and human diseases, including autoimmunity, transplant rejection, infectious disease and cancer." Mason and Payne will continue to focus on their novel gene-engineered chimeric autoantibody receptor T cell (CAART) immunotherapy and its potential to cause lasting remission of antibody-mediated disease. "Our study of CAART immunotherapy in companion dogs with naturally occurring autoimmune disease will be synergistic with our efforts to develop similar human therapies," said Payne. "By comparing how these complex cellular immunotherapies work in dogs versus humans, we will better understand how to engineer and deliver these therapies to potentially cure disease." Mason, who earned her BVetMed from the University of London, and her PhD from the University of Pennsylvania, is a board-certified veterinary internist and immunologist. For the past ten years, she has been actively involved in evaluating the immunological responses of immune-based therapies in client-owned dogs suffering from lymphoma, osteosarcoma, and hemangiosarcoma. Mason's research laboratory is currently developing CAR-T cell therapies for dogs with B cell lymphoma, and she serves as the PI and lead investigator on the first clinical trial evaluating CAR-T cell therapies in dogs. This research is supported by the National Institutes of Health under award number R01 AR075337. ### About Penn Vet Ranked among the top ten veterinary schools worldwide, the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (Penn Vet) is a global leader in veterinary education, research, and clinical care. Founded in 1884, Penn Vet is the first veterinary school developed in association with a medical school. The school is a proud member of the One Health initiative, linking human, animal, and environmental health. Penn Vet serves a diverse population of animals at its two campuses, which include extensive diagnostic and research laboratories. Ryan Hospital in Philadelphia provides care for dogs, cats, and other domestic/companion animals, handling nearly 35,000 patient visits a year. New Bolton Center, Penn Vet's large-animal hospital on nearly 700 acres in rural Kennett Square, PA, cares for horses and livestock/farm animals. The hospital handles nearly 4,900 patient visits a year, while the Field Service treats more than 38,000 patients at local farms. In addition, New Bolton Center's campus includes a swine center, working dairy, and poultry unit that provide valuable research for the agriculture industry. For more information, visit http://www.vet.upenn.edu. PHILADELPHIA - Penn Medicine experts in nephrology and health policy call for more transparency about joint-venture ownership of dialysis clinics to better understand what impact these arrangements may have on patient referrals and clinical outcomes. Currently, physicians who enter into these ventures, in which they share in the management, profit, and losses of a dialysis facility, are not required to disclose the relationship nor discuss it with patients. And no information about dialysis clinic joint-venture arrangements is publicly available. The lack of transparency poses a major barrier for evidence-based health care policy research and deprives patients of critical information, the researchers write in a new Perspective published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Dialysis - the treatment that filters blood for patients with kidney complications - is a profitable business in the United States. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services spent $34 billion in 2014 on beneficiaries with end-stage renal disease, and the two largest dialysis companies, DaVita Kidney Care and Fresenius Medical Care, which control 70 percent of the market, reported an annual net income in the range of $1 billion in recent years. "There are a variety of different joint-venture arrangements between dialysis clinics, both for-profit and non-profit, and physicians, but we have no idea what consequences for patients, good or bad, come from such arrangements," said first author Jeffrey S. Berns, MD, a professor of Medicine and associate chief of Renal Electrolyte and Hypertension in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. "It's only fair to patients that this information be made available so the relationship between joint-venture ownership of dialysis clinics and outcomes of patients with kidney failure who are on dialysis can be studied." What's more, ethically speaking, patients should be aware of these ties to make an informed decision about their care, he added. Joint ventures are promoted as a way of aligning the interests of nephrologists with those of dialysis providers in order to improve clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. However, that assertion has never been studied. The authors said that such ventures create financial incentives for participating nephrologists that may inappropriately influence decisions about patient care. They ask, "might a nephrologist with a financial stake in a dialysis facility be more likely to recommend that a patient start dialysis? Could there be pressure to refer a patient to a facility in which the nephrologist is a partner, even though other facilities might be closer to the patient's home, have more convenient dialysis shifts, offer better services or treatment modes, or provide higher-quality care?" "It is certainly possible that these concerns are not borne out in practice and that joint ventures actually improve outcomes and patient satisfaction," the authors wrote. "The only way to find out is with independent, empirical research comparing the outcomes and costs of care among patients receiving treatment at joint-venture facilities with those at other facilities. Unfortunately, such research is not only nonexistent, it is currently impossible to conduct." Berns and co-authors Aaron Glickman and Matthew S. McCoy, PhD, both from the department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, also recommend nephrology specialty societies follow the lead of the American Medical Association and other professional organizations by developing guidelines mandating disclosure of joint-venture arrangements and any other financial ties between nephrologists and dialysis providers to patients and their families before initiation of dialysis at a particular facility. Berns calls the issue one of the most important, but also one of the least discussed and understood, in the dialysis industry today. ### Penn Medicine is one of the world's leading academic medical centers, dedicated to the related missions of medical education, biomedical research, and excellence in patient care. Penn Medicine consists of the Raymond and Ruth Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania (founded in 1765 as the nation's first medical school) and the University of Pennsylvania Health System, which together form a $7.8 billion enterprise. The Perelman School of Medicine has been ranked among the top medical schools in the United States for more than 20 years, according to U.S. News & World Report's survey of research-oriented medical schools. The School is consistently among the nation's top recipients of funding from the National Institutes of Health, with $405 million awarded in the 2017 fiscal year. The University of Pennsylvania Health System's patient care facilities include: The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Penn Presbyterian Medical Center -- which are recognized as one of the nation's top "Honor Roll" hospitals by U.S. News & World Report -- Chester County Hospital; Lancaster General Health; Penn Medicine Princeton Health; Penn Wissahickon Hospice; and Pennsylvania Hospital - the nation's first hospital, founded in 1751. Additional affiliated inpatient care facilities and services throughout the Philadelphia region include Good Shepherd Penn Partners, a partnership between Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network and Penn Medicine, and Princeton House Behavioral Health, a leading provider of highly skilled and compassionate behavioral healthcare. Penn Medicine is committed to improving lives and health through a variety of community-based programs and activities. In fiscal year 2017, Penn Medicine provided $500 million to benefit our community. PITTSBURGH, Oct. 3, 2018 - A new study by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine suggests that experiences of sexual harassment and sexual assault could have a significant impact on the physical and mental health of midlife women. Study results, published today in JAMA Internal Medicine, also will be presented at the North American Menopause Society meeting on Friday, Oct 5 2018 in San Diego, CA. "When it comes to sexual harassment or sexual assault, our study shows that lived experiences may have a serious impact on women's health, both mental and physical," said Rebecca Thurston, Ph.D., professor of psychiatry, Pitt School of Medicine and the study's first and senior author. "This is an issue that needs to be tackled with urgency not just in terms of treatment but in terms of prevention." Sexual harassment and sexual assault are highly prevalent experiences among women. An estimated 40 - 75 percent of women in the United States have experienced workplace sexual harassment and more than 1 in 3 women have experienced sexual assault. While both have been linked to poorer health outcomes, previous studies have predominantly used self-reported parameters, which could be biased by mood, memory and health literacy, or these studies have not taken into account factors such as socioeconomic status or medication use. In the current study, Thurston and her colleagues analyzed the association between a history of sexual assault or workplace verbal or physical sexual harassment and physical and mental health parameters such as blood pressure, sleep, mood and anxiety. The analysis was conducted among a group of 304 midlife women between the ages of 40 and 60 who were originally recruited as part of a larger study on association between menopause and cardiovascular health. In the study group, approximately one in five women reported being either sexually harassed or sexually assaulted. Women who were younger or more financially stressed were more likely to be harassed. Importantly, the study found that assaulted women were almost three times more likely to have symptoms consistent with major depression and were more than two times more likely to have elevated anxiety. Sexual harassment was associated with higher prevalence of hypertension. Both sexual harassment and sexual assault were associated with a two-fold higher likelihood of poor sleep consistent with clinical insomnia. The associations held true even when demographics, socioeconomic status, medication use and medical history were taken into account. Poor sleep, depression and anxiety are themselves associated with poorer health outcomes, according to the authors. "We know that sexual harassment and assault are prevalent in our society and can cause significant harm," said Thurston. "If you are a health care provider, recognize that these experiences can have implications for your patient's health. If you are a victim of assault or harassment, don't suffer through it. Get help. If you can, change the situation or remove yourself from it." Thurston and her colleagues note that the study could be expanded and strengthened by implementing more comprehensive measurement of harassment and assault and increasing the number and diversity of participants. ### Additional authors on the study included Yuefang Chang, Ph.D., and Karen A. Matthews, Ph.D., of Pitt; Roland von Kanel, M.D., of University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland; and Karestan Koenen, Ph.D., of Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health The study was supported by National Institutes of Health grants R01HL105647, K24123565, and UL1TR000005. About the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences The University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences include the schools of Medicine, Nursing, Dental Medicine, Pharmacy, Health and Rehabilitation Sciences and the Graduate School of Public Health. The schools serve as the academic partner to the UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center). Together, their combined mission is to train tomorrow's health care specialists and biomedical scientists, engage in groundbreaking research that will advance understanding of the causes and treatments of disease and participate in the delivery of outstanding patient care. Since 1998, Pitt and its affiliated university faculty have ranked among the top 10 educational institutions in grant support from the National Institutes of Health. For additional information about the Schools of the Health Sciences, please visit http://www.health.pitt.edu. http://www.upmc.com/media KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - The chancellor of the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has been recognized for his commitment to Extension and outreach work. UTIA Chancellor Tim Cross has been selected as the 2018 Distinguished Service Ruby Award winner by Epsilon Sigma Phi (ESP) - an organization that includes thousands of Extension professionals from land grant universities. In his role as UTIA Chancellor, Cross leads the statewide University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, which includes UT Extension, UT AgResearch, the Herbert College of Agriculture and the UT College of Veterinary Medicine. He received ESP's most prestigious accolade at the organization's national meeting October 2 in Manhattan, Kansas. "This is certainly an unexpected honor, and I'm truly humbled to receive this prestigious award from Epsilon Sigma Phi - an organization that I have deep admiration for," Cross says. "I consider this a team award that I share with all those I've had the pleasure of working with throughout my career, including my Extension co-workers, industry partners and the generous donors who make so much of our work possible." Cross has an academic career that spans three decades and three states - including time at Fort Hays State University in Kansas and Oregon State University. In 1994, he joined UTIA in the Department of Agricultural Economics. Cross has also served as dean of UT Extension and is now UTIA's third chancellor. Cross has served on the National Extension Committee on Policy, National Council for Food and Agricultural Research, as well as the Tennessee Governor's Rural Task Force and Health Committee. He established a strategic plan that has improved statewide Extension branding, implemented a peer mentoring program, developed professional development training for faculty and agents, and provided a healthy lifestyles program for all Extension employees. Linda Bower, UT Extension Eastern Region leader for Family and Consumer Sciences, is the recipient of the ESP Administrative Leadership Award for her outstanding service as an Extension educator and for leadership. Bower is among four recipients for this national recognition. Ann Berry with UT Extension Family and Consumer Sciences and a past ESP national president, received the Continued Excellence Award for her exceptional service in delivering educational programs that significantly impact and improve lives. In her career, Berry has worked with Extension in Louisiana and Tennessee. Heather Sedges Wallace, also with UT Extension Family and Consumer Sciences, was honored by ESP with the Joint Council of Extension Professionals Award for Creative Excellence. Wallace was recognized for her innovative work that catalyzed rural community engagement in addressing wellness and childhood trauma using a policy, systems and environment (PSE) approach. Cross credits the success of Extension to dedicated people and partnerships. "UT Extension has more than a 100-year history of advancing Tennessee, thanks to exceptional county financial support, dedicated employees and volunteers, and a strong partnership with our 1890 institution - Tennessee State University," he says. "Long term successful state programs tend to result in professionals who are heavily engaged in associations like Epsilon Sigma Phi, providing effective leadership in the form of officers and receiving their share of recognition as award winners." ### The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture celebrates 50 years of excellence in providing Real. Life. Solutions. Through teaching, discovery and service. ag.tennessee.edu. It is not so long ago that immunotherapy against cancer was positioned as emerging or even promising but not as proven. Novel immunotherapeutics across different tumor types, either as mono therapy or in combination, are increasingly becoming one of the most innovative and powerful anti-cancer strategies. One of the major challenges in ensuring that these novel treatments realize their true potential has been successfully equipping the immune system to launch its attack exclusively on tumour cells excluding all healthy tissues. Up until now. Research led by Joaquin Arribas, Director of Preclinical Research at the Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), ICREA Professor, and Scientific Director of the Center for the Biomedical Research Network in Oncology (CIBERONC), has turned this obstacle into therapeutic opportunity. Published in Science Translational Medicine, the study, first co-authored by Irene Rius-Ruiz, Graduate Student of VHIO's Growth Factors Group, reveals that p95HER2-T cell bispecific antibody (TCB) can successfully guide immune cells, known as lymphocytes, directly to cancerous ones for their targeted killing. This direct delivery is achieved thanks to the p95HER2 protein, which is only located in tumor cells. Representing a new therapeutic avenue and fresh hope for patients who have ceased to respond to current therapies, this novel immune-based approach can be used to tackle certain HER2+ breast cancers through its exclusive targeting of cancerous cells. p95HER2-TCB: guiding the immune system for the targeted killing of HER2-positive breast cancer cells T cell bispecific antibodies constitute a promising approach in harnessing the immune system to mount its anti-cancer response, and represent an increasingly valuable addition to the current arsenal of armory against cancer. Not only are they highly specific but they can also hone in on one protein among tens of thousands, in this particular case, p95HER2. Furthermore, each antibody molecule has a bipartite structure containing two protein-binding sites. This means that they can simultaneously attach to immune cells and cancerous ones as well as take the lymphocytes hand-in-hand directly to the malignant cells for their subsequent destruction. Acting as a magnet that lures the patient's immune system solely to tumor cells, p95HER2-TCB enables a targeted response by attacking these cells directly without affecting normal cells. "The immune system has the natural capacity to fight against disseminated disease. To do so more effectively, it must be better equipped to recognize and act against malignant cells. While bispecific antibodies are designed to do just that, they often signpost T cells to healthy ones," explains Joaquin Arribas, corresponding author of the study. He continues, "Thanks to the distinct specificity of p95HER2-TCB and p95HER2's exclusive location in tumor cells, we have achieved a 'home delivery' of immune-based therapy. Our findings represent an important step towards ensuring that the immune system can successfully deliver its powerful anti-cancer blows." Immunotherapies for cancer are proving increasingly more effective in the treatment of metastatic disease. Generally, advanced and metastatic cancers eventually develop resistance to different lines of therapies. When patients eventually cease to respond to current therapies, leading to cancer cell spread, they have few therapeutic options available. While the immune system represents powerful weaponry in thwarting the spread of disease, it can only effectively do so by recognizing and launching its attack on malignant cells. "The real added value of our findings is that the bispecific antibody, p95HER2-TCB, directs lymphocytes exclusively to tumour cells harboring p95HER2," observes Irene Rius Ruiz, first author of the study. Approximately 10% of patients with HER2-positive breast cancers expressing p95HER2 could stand to benefit from this novel strategy. "While our approach can only be extended to a relatively small subset of patients with HER2-positive disease, for those who stand to gain, the benefits could be significant. By more precisely matching novel therapy to a particular patient population, we are getting closer to delivering on the true promise of precision medicine in oncology," says Irene Rius Ruiz. These findings are the fruit of a decade of research at VHIO, beginning with Joaquin Arribas' group's identification of the p95HER2 protein, which was initially used as a biomarker to identify a subgroup of patients with HER2-positive breast cancer who no longer responded to standard therapies. Their later discovery that this protein only resides on the surface of tumour cells as opposed to healthy cells led to the development of a specific targeted therapy. As a leading reference in advancing modelling systems, VHIO is dedicated to delivering the predictive data required to reliably inform the clinical development of innovative agents and evidence reproducibility before moving to the clinic. VHIO's Growth Factors Group focuses on more accurately modeling anti-tumor immunotherapy strategies and has generated humanized patient-derived xenograft models (Hu PDXs), in which the human immune system is established in immunodeficient mice. These experimental models have been invaluable in validating the efficacy of the p95HER2-T cell bispecific antibody. Having now completed the pre-clinical phase of development, Arribas' team will seek to advance the therapy so that it can be administered in humans for investigation in clinical trials. Next steps will also include developing additional therapies against p95HER2 such as antibody-drug conjugates or chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). "These future treatments will likely be as effective and safe as p95HER2-TCB. We are confident that our findings will enable the exclusive targeting of malignant cells by different means through p95HER2," concludes Joaquin Arribas. Reflective of VHIO's purely multidisciplinary and translational research model, several of its preclinical, translational and clinical groups, along with colleagues belonging to CIBERONC, have collaborated in this research. The project has also counted on the participation of other physician-scientists and oncology professionals of the Vall dHebron University Hospital across the Vall dHebron Barcelona Hospital Campus. ### This research was mainly funded through grants from the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) and the Spanish Association against Cancer (AECC). Additional support was received from the Agencia de Gestio dAjuts Universitaris I de Recerca (AGAUR), European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Fero Foundation, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), as well as the BBVA Foundation's Comprehensive Program of Cancer Immunotherapy & Immunology (CAIMI). A new Journal of the American Geriatrics Society study has evaluated the potential impacts of cataracts and cataract surgery on the risks of osteoporosis and bone fractures. For the study, researchers at Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital in Taiwan studied 57,972 cataract patients who were matched to 57,972 healthy controls. During an average follow-up time of 6.4 years, 17,450 patients developed osteoporosis or fractures in the cataract group, and 12,627 in the non-cataract group. The diagnosis of cataracts was associated with a 29% increased risk of developing osteoporosis or fracture. In analyses for each individual event, the diagnosis of cataracts was associated with a 43% increased risk of osteoporosis, a 16% increased risk of hip fracture, a 25% increased risk of vertebral fracture, and a 24% increased risk of other fractures. In the cataract group, patients who underwent cataract surgery had a 42% lower risk of developing osteoporosis or fracture. "Appropriate management of cataracts may decrease osteoporosis and fracture risks," said first author Dr. Huei-Kai Huang. "I strongly recommend all elders with osteoporosis or fractures to check their vision," added co-author Dr. Ching-Hui Loh. ### Multiple-choice tests and quizzes are an effective tool for: assessing a student's mastery of facts and concepts; helping students learn and retain facts and concepts. While some educators might see this as a trick question, the correct answer appears to be: c) all of the above, suggests new research from Washington University in St. Louis. "Although people often think about multiple-choice tests as tools for assessment, they can also be used to facilitate learning," said Andrew Butler, a cognitive psychologist in Arts & Sciences who studies the brain processes behind learning and recall. "The act of retrieving information strengthens memory for that information, leading to better long-term retention, and changes the representation of the information, creating deeper understanding." Butler's study, published in the September issue of Journal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition, offers straightforward tips for constructing multiple-choice questions that are effective at both assessing current knowledge and strengthening ongoing learning. Among key findings, educators should never include trick questions or offer "all of the above" or "none of the above" options among the list of possible answers. Research on the format of multiple-choice questions is important, Butler noted, because the tests are widely used throughout the world, especially in the United States where they originated as part of early efforts to measure intelligence. Fueled in the beginning by the need for an efficient way to measure characteristics of World War I soldiers and booming student enrollments, multiple-choice tests now influence important life decisions in areas such as college placement, workplace hiring, career advancement and even online dating. As an associate professor in the Departments of Education and of Psychological & Brain Sciences, both in Arts & Sciences, Butler conducts research that explores the malleability of memory -- the cognitive processes and mechanisms that cause memories to change or remain stable over time. Taking any form of test has the potential to alter our understanding of a topic, he said, because the process of recalling information requires important details to be freshly reconstructed from related memories. While multiple-choice testing, especially repeated testing, has the potential to strengthen our recall, a poorly formatted test question can have the opposite effect, Butler said. Such an ill-formed question can muddy our recollection of the correct answer and reinforcing memories for inaccurate "distractor" answers, he added. Butler's research review confirms that proper question formatting and presentation are critical to creating effective multiple-choice tests. It also suggests that many widely used multiple-choice tests still include lots of questions that fail to comply with research-based best practices. "Fortunately, the best practices for creating multiple-choice tests that effectively assess understanding are much the same as those for supporting student learning," Butler said. Butler's study explains the cognitive science behind five research-based recommendations for crafting more effective multiple choice questions: Create questions with simple formats. Complex question-and-answer formats have become popular as educators look for ways to test for deeper understanding and higher-level learning. Examples include offering answers such as "A and B, but not C," or allowing repeated answers until correct choice is made. Such formats may be detrimental to assessment since guessing is encouraged and processing may focus more on parsing question context and less on recalling correct information. Some complex formats, such as confidence-rated answers, may offer benefits, but more research is needed. Create questions that engage "real world" cognitive processes. To truly test abilities, questions must be structured so correct answers require use of the specific cognitive processes necessary to address similar problems in the real world. Questions that require higher-order thinking will enhance learning and improve future performance. For example, a multiple-choice question could require a test-taker to contrast two concepts (Which of the following is a way in which hawks differ from eagles?) or analyze a set of conditions to make a decision (Given a patient symptoms, which of the following diagnoses is most likely?). Avoid using "none of the above" and "all of the above" as answer choices. When "none-of-the-above" is correct, students may not need to retrieve correct information to answer the question and they are exposed a lot of incorrect information. Using "all of the above" exposes students to a lot of correct information, but answers may be more obvious, robbing students of potential learning that comes from recall processing. Both question types can be detrimental to accurate assessment and potential benefits to learning are small. Use three plausible response options. Question difficulty increases with each answer option offered. Students who correctly answer more difficult questions may learn more from rising to the challenge, but questions that offer too many plausible answers can have a negative effect on both learning and assessment. Use the Goldilocks principle: not too many, or too few. Make the test challenging, but not too difficult. Create tests that are hard enough to reveal how well students know the material, but easy enough that a majority (80 percent) get a passing grade. Retrieving information and answering questions correctly reinforces student learning; failing to answer correctly may strengthen memories for misinformation. Challenge students, but allow them to succeed. Finally, because multiple choice questions expose students to lots of plausibly presented false information, it's important for students to review answers after grading is completed. Feedback enables test-takers to correct errors and avoid internalizing incorrect information. It also strengthens learning around correct answers that were low-confidence guesses at test time. "One takeaway from these recommendations is that the most effective multiple-choice items get students to think in ways that are productive for learning and enable valid measurement of whether they have acquired the desired skills and knowledge," Butler said. "To maximize both effectiveness and efficiency, it is also best to keep the process of answering multiple-choice items simple -- added complexity often has a negative effect on both learning and assessment." ### Japanese Yen (JPY) and Gold catching a bid on worries of EU markets. Technicals show strong drop incoming. Prolonged concerns over Italys budget and the solvency of Italian banks continues to weigh in on the European markets and affecting many other broader markets as well. Reuters reported that shares of Italian banks are at a 19-month low. This has also seen the Yen catch a bid and see a small bounce. The JXY (Japanese Yen Index) has been trading near October 2017 lows and could be under threat for further moves down if no support is found. Gold has also experienced a bit of relief. In fact, from the low of September 28th at 1180.77, Gold has rallied a staggering +2.33%, or up $27.527. This rise comes along with another all-time high being found in the DJIA. Gold did regain the key 1200 price level. Above: USD/JPY FX pair creates new yearly highs. The USDJPY FX pair has printed new highs for 2018 but was stopped at that new high. From a market geometry perspective, this halt was expected because price came up against a confluence zone of a Gann arc acting as resistance and a 6/8th inner harmonic pivot. There are some contradicting readings in two key oscillators on a 4-hour chart: The RSI and the Composite Index. The RSI has painted higher-highs while the Composite Index has painted lower-highs, creating bearish divergence. However, immediately after the first strong sell hidden bullish divergence was printed with the RSI creating higher-lows and the Composite Index creating lower-lows. The halting of price at this level makes sense when we analyze price behavior as it relates to harmonic price levels. The 6/8th inner harmonic pivot (114.21) acts as the first overbought condition. It is very common for price to do one of two things. First, prices may oscillate around the 6/8th harmonic and create a short trading range before breaking out higher. Second, and more likely, is for prices to pull back down to the 4/8th inner harmonic at 112.446. Some bulls may look at a move down to the 4/8th harmonic as a good thing because a test of that level as support would provide a lot of legitimacy to any future moves higher. A choppy trade could be expected for the remainder of the week. There are many signs pointing to an odd market commodity, equity and forex markets. Gold has been trading higher along with US equities, the DXY (US Dollar Index) is trading higher along with the JXY. Mixed messages from many central banks about whether rates will be a hike or not and whether easing policies will end or not. The Euro to Pound Sterling (EUR/GBP) exchange rate breaks below the key support as sterling targets best levels on Brexit news UPDATE: The Euro to Pound Sterling (EUR/GBP) exchange rate is trading lower at 0.8820 on Friday morning. Reuters cites unnamed European Union (EU) diplomatic sources, as saying that the EU Brexit negotiators believe that divorce deal with Britain Is very close. Various Italian newspapers reported earlier today that the European Central Bank (ECB) President Draghi met Italian President Mattarella on Wednesday, pointed out risks of negative market reaction to the budget. Italy looking into new regulations on gacs state guarantee scheme, also examining the possibility to extend it to unlikely-to-pay loans. The Euro to Pound Sterling (EUR/GBP) exchange rate traded lower at 0.8850 on Thursday afternoon. European Council President Donald Tusk recently crossed the wires saying that the EU was hoping for the best relationship with the UK but added that the EU would not give up on key interests because of Brexit. UK Prime Minister Theresa May delivered a successful speech in Birmingham. Contrary to the mishaps in the previous Conservative Conference, the PM came out on top. She delivered an impressive call for unity in a statement that touched on many aspects. Markets care about Brexit, and they did not hear the desired message. May repeated her stance that no-deal is better than a bad deal and that Britain is not afraid to leave the EU without an agreement The Euro to Pound Sterling (EUR/GBP) exchange rate cross surrendered early gains to near one-week tops and dropped to fresh session lows, below the 0.8880 handle on Wednesday afternoon. The shared currency started losing positive momentum after Italy's deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio confirmed 2019 budget deficit target of 2.4% and said that the government is still mulling over cutting deficit after that. Meanwhile, the British Pound seemed rather unaffected by today's slightly weaker-than-expected UK services PMI and held on to its positive bias, which was seen exerting some additional downward pressure on the cross. The downside, so far, remained limited as GBP traders seemed reluctant to place any aggressive bets ahead of the UK PM Theresa May's speechat the Conservative Party annual conference, which will be looked upon for any fresh Brexit update. The Pound Euro (GBP/EUR) exchange rate traded in a narrow range on Wednesday morning as markets welcome reports that peace may have been brokered between Rome and Brussels regarding Italys new budget proposals. Euro (EUR) Exchange Rates Rallies on Reports Rome May Back Down in Budget Dispute The Euro (EUR) has been buoyed this morning as media reports suggest Rome and Brussels may have made some progress towards resolving a row which emerged last week as Italy published its budget for the coming year. The main point of contention in the budget was Italys plan to run a target deficit of 2.4% of GDP over the next three years, flouting the EUs limits of 2% so the ruling collation could fund its ambitious spending plans. However reports from Italy suggest a deal may have been brokered between Rome and Brussels which will see Italys budget deficit fall to 2.2% of GDP in 2020 and then 2% of GDP in 2021. Its hoped this will prevent Italys from being hit by punitive measures from its EU partners and also ensure the countrys debt pile remains in a more sustainable range. However there may be some caveats to this deal, with Deputy Italian PM Luigi Di Maio claiming the government will stick to its 2.4% deficit target in 2019, but that the percentage of GDP will be reduced in the following years thanks to a pick-up in growth, rather than by reducing government spending. Thu LanNguyen, FX strategist at Commerzbank, said: That the Italian government is trying to appease its EU partners can be seen as a step in the right direction and therefore justifies some euro-positive reaction. The devil is in the details. The euros recovery will only continue if the new fiscal plans are also feasible. Pound (GBP) Exchange Rates Steady on Robust UK Services PMI Meanwhile the Pound (GBP) is holding its ground against the Euro (EUR) this morning following the release of the UKs latest Services PMI. According to data published by IHS Markit, activity in the UKs all-important service sector slowed slightly last month, with Septembers index sliding from 54.3 to 53.9 and falling below forecasts of a more modest dip to 54.0. Despite the slide, GBP investors were still upbeat regarding the data, with analysts suggesting that when viewed alongside the UKs other PMI releases over the last three months paints a picture of steady growth in the private sector and indicates UK GDP will have held at 0.4% in the third quarter. Chris Williamson, Chief Business Economist at IHS Markit, said: The service sector continued to report solid steady business growth in September which, alongside news of sustained expansions in both manufacturing and construction, suggests the UK economy expanded by just under 0.4% in the third quarter. The data therefore add to signs that the economy has enjoyed robust growth since the rocky start to the year, when extreme weather disrupted business. However the PMI highlighted that firms still have considerable reservations when it comes to Brexit, with the air of uncertainty continued to suppress business optimism. GBP/EUR Exchange Rate Forecast: Political Uncertainty to Dominate the Second Half of the Week? Looking ahead to the reminder of this weeks session, the absence of any notable UK or Eurozone data is likely to lead to movement in the Pound Euro (GBP/EUR) exchange rate to be shaped by political developments at home. In terms of the Pound this will see markets focus on Theresa Mays keynote speech at the Conservative party conference, with GBP investors likely to be particularly interested on whether the Prime Minister will stick to her guns on her Chequers plan. Meanwhile Italy is likely to remain in the spotlight for EUR investors, with further volatility in the Euro likely until Rome makes a final decision on its budget. Privacy Settings This site uses functional cookies and external scripts to improve your experience. Which cookies and scripts are used and how they impact your visit is specified on the left. You may change your settings at any time. Your choices will not impact your visit. NOTE: These settings will only apply to the browser and device you are currently using. Ideal for anyone struggling to find the words to say they're sorry, the website ApologyLetters.net has added nearly two dozen new apology letter templates. "These sample letters can be used as a jumping-off point to craft a message that suits your exact situation, or simply use a letter as-is," said Kevin Savetz, the site's creator. "All of the letters are free for personal use." There are new letters tailored for both personal and professional apologizes. For the workplace, there are letter templates for: missing a deadline, inappropriate Twitter use, and sending a "not safe for work" message. Other letters offer to fix a mistake or ask for help rectifying an error. Some of the apology letter templates are designed for businesses to apologize to customers or clients and include regrets for injuries, late delivery, a rude employee, and cancellation of an order, reservation or event. Other letters address: missing a rehearsal, ruining a trip, causing an injury, losing contact with someone and other unfortunate situations. A couple of letters help users say they're sorry being mean or a "jerk." ApologyLetters.net also has a variety of tips and how-to articles with advice on how to write a letter of apology. Any letter can be downloaded instantly in editable DOC form to be typed into using Microsoft Word. Or, site users can simply cut and paste the text directly from the site. "It's never too late to say you're sorry!" Savetz said. There are more than 100 sites in the FreePrintable.net family of free printables sites created by Savetz Publishing, Inc., a company devoted to creating useful and informative web sites of interest to consumers and small businesses. Amazons announcement Tuesday that it will raise its minimum wage to $15 was widely seen as an attempt to assuage critics, such as U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, who have assailed the nations most profitable retailer in recent months over pay and working conditions. However, Amazons decision to raise wages is also a shrewd business move that reflects the reality of a tight labor market heading into the busy holiday shopping season. The Seattle-based company is looking to fill more than 100,000 seasonal jobs during a period of record-low unemployment that stands at 3.9 percent. My heart wants me to believe that this move was done for all the right reasons, said Fabio Rosati, chairman and CEO of Snag, a job website for hourly workers. But my rational side tells me this is a very good business decision for Amazon that gives them the opportunity to recruit more effectively in a tight labor market. Retailers are recruiting earlier, raising wages and offering bigger perks as competition over seasonal workers heats up. Although Christmas is still months away, seasonal hiring is already in full swing as retailers predict a banner holiday season. Nearly nine out of every 10 retailers said they are struggling to fill seasonal positions this year, according to Snags 11th annual holiday hiring report. The Arlington, Va.-based company commissioned Wakefield Research to survey more than 1,000 employers of hourly workers in the retail, restaurant and hospitality industries about their staffing plans. Seasonal hiring typically starts in October, ramping up in time for Black Friday and Cyber Monday in late November. But this year retailers, facing a shrinking labor pool, have started hiring for the holidays as early as August. More than twice as many retailers began recruiting in August compared to a year earlier, Rosati said. The bulk of the hiring is happening now. Retailers are throwing job fairs at thousands of stores nationwide this month to recruit workers. To lure hires, retailers are raising wages and dangling incentives. Amazons pay increase, effective Nov. 1, will benefit more than 250,000 full-time and part-time employees at Amazon and its grocery chain, Whole Foods Market. The e-commerce giant also pledged to lobby Congress to raise the federal minimum wage currently set at $7.25. We listened to our critics, thought hard about what we wanted to do, and decided we want to lead, Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos said. Were excited about this change and encourage our competitors and other large employers to join us. Target earlier this year announced it will raise its minimum wage to $12, from $11, in time for the holidays. The company aims to hit a $15 minimum wage by 2020. The Minneapolis-based retailer is looking to hire 120,000 seasonal store workers, a 20 percent increase from last year, as well as 7,500 workers in its e-commerce fulfillment centers. Kohls for the first time is offering a 35 percent employee discount for purchases in store and online to all workers during this holiday season. The department store chain typically offers a 15 percent employee discount, which can be used with coupons and on associate shop days. The Wisconsin-based company plans to hire 90,000 seasonal workers nationwide, including more than 375 in the Houston area. Its a workers market, said Venky Shankar, director of research at Texas A&M Universitys Center for Retailing Studies. All of the retailers are competing for the same temporary workers. Given the tight labor market, well see a lot of them raising their minimum wage and upping the ante on incentives. The hiring frenzy comes as retailers expect holiday sales to exceed last years figures. Consumer confidence is high amid low unemployment, rising incomes and personal tax cuts. Holiday retail sales are expected to grow by about 5 percent this year to $722.1 billion. Online sales are expected to grow 11.5 percent this year to $136.2 billion, about a fifth of total holiday sales, according to IHS Markit, a retail industry research firm. Consumers are going into the holidays with a bright outlook, said Jill Standish, senior managing director at consulting firm Accentures global retail division. Theyre saying, Life is good; Im going to have a good holiday. The phenomenon, which is hard to predict and elusive, has shown up at El Porto in Manhattan Beach and Marina del Rey this week. Texas A&M University-San Antonio officials honored former Mayor Henry Cisneros with its 2018 Dream Maker Award at a luncheon Wednesday. Cisneros has served on A&M-San Antonios Presidents Advisory Board since 2015 and has offered invaluable advice and outstanding leadership, university President Cynthia Teniente-Matson said. Cisneros, who also served as U.S. Housing and Urban Development secretary under President Bill Clinton, recently pledged $1 million to the Henry G. Cisneros Institute for Emerging Leaders at the university. His latest commitment to our university will help us equip students with the leadership skills, knowledge and experiences they need to achieve rewarding careers, responsible global citizenship and lifelong learning, Teniente-Matson said in a statement before the luncheon. Established in 2009, the Dream Maker Award is given to community members who contribute to education and help make higher education more widely accessible. Former Dream Maker recipients include Lowry Mays, founder and former chairman of Clear Channel Communications, and Bill Greehey, chairman of NuStar Energy and former CEO of Valero Energy Corp. This award recognizes (Cisneros) body of service to A&M-S.A. and the significant investment he has made to enrich the educational experience of our students, Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp said in the statement. Krista Torralva covers several school districts and public universities in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | Krista.Torralva@express-news.net | Twitter: @KMTorralva Two San Antonio crisis hotlines for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence report significant increases in calls in the two weeks since professor Christine Blasey Ford publicly accused Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of groping her during a small high school gathering in 1982. In the second half of September, 106 people called the Rape Crisis Centers 24-hour hotline to discuss incidents of sexual assault, compared to 74 during the two weeks prior, a 43 percent increase, the organization reported. Fords allegation became public Sept. 16, and she testified in more detail before the Senate Judiciary Committee 11 days later. Theres a range of emotions that can be triggered for survivors of sexual assault, said Andrea Lopez, community engagement coordinator at the Rape Crisis Center. Marta Pelaez, president and CEO of Family Violence Prevention Services, the nonprofit that oversees the local battered women and childrens shelter, said its 24-hour hotline has seen double the amount of calls in the final two weeks of September compared to the two weeks prior: From 122 calls to 264. Lopez said the change in the volume of calls to the Rape Crisis Centers hotline is unusual. Several callers said they reached out because they were affected by Fords story and they stayed on the phone longer than usual, Lopez said. I think Dr. Fords testimony has inspired victims to be assured that they are not alone, that there are channels and ways to go about coming forward and telling their story, she said. The increase in calls to the local hotlines mirrors that of the National Sexual Assault Hotline. On Thursday, the day Ford and Kavanaugh testified before the Senate committee, the hotline reported a 201 percent increase in calls compared with a typical day. On ExpressNews.com: Domestic violence survivor advocates for women like her Melissa Rodriguez, director of community partnerships at the Hays-Caldwell Womens Center, said the number of calls to its 24-hour hotline has not changed. Still, she said several of the agencys clients have been affected by Fords story. They have all have been consumed by the testimony and the political debate, and for a significant amount of them, they have had setbacks, Rodriguez said. Lopez and Pelaez said they struck in watching the hearings last week that Ford demonstrated many characteristics common to victims of sexual assault and domestic abuse. Depending on how traumatizing, you will remember smells, noise, sounds, colors related to it but may not necessarily remember any of those elements seconds later or before, Pelaez said. She said she was speaking without taking a side in what has become a nationally contentious debate. Victims advocates said its important to have conversations about sexual assault and family violence so people are aware of its prevalence and the services that are available to victims and their families. On ExpressNews.com: Bexar County has one of the highest numbers of domestic violence homicides Lopez said shes hopeful that Fords testimony will inspire sexual assault or family violence victims to speak out. But she also understands that victims would not want to make themselves vulnerable, knowing the level of scrutiny Fords story has received. We hope thats not a deterrent for anyone, she said. But we can acknowledge that research shows that the number one reason people dont coming forward is because people dont believe them. Emilie Eaton is a criminal justice reporter in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | eeaton@express-news.net | Twitter: @emilieeaton A former Bandidos member who participated in the biker clubs killing of another man 16 years ago was sentenced Tuesday to 13 years in federal prison without parole, plus five years of supervision after his release. Frederick Cortez, 50, was charged in a racketeering case that took down the top leaders of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club, and was the first to plead guilty in the case and cooperate with federal authorities. In October 2016, he pleaded guilty to murder in aid of racketeering in the death of Robert Lara, who was ambushed and shot at a picnic rest area south of San Antonio in January 2002. Lara was killed because he was suspected of slaying a Bandido in late 2001, according to testimony during the three-month trial of the Bandidos former national vice president John Xavier Portillo and ex-president Jeffrey Fay Pike. Pike and Portillo were sentenced last week to life in prison without parole for leading the racketeering conspiracy. Related: San Antonio judge sentences Bandidos chief to life for prison Tuesday, Cortez apologized to Senior U.S. District Judge David Ezra for this crime I was involved in. Since leaving the Bandidos in 2014 and pleading guilty two years later, he has become an active member of his churchs ministry and asked for leniency so he can continue counseling other broken, lost men. One of Cortezs lawyers, George Aristotelidis, told Ezra that Cortez has diminshed mental capacity, which made him susceptible to manipulation by the Bandidos. He worked for Portillos small home air conditioning company for 17 years and became a member of the club because he sought social acceptance, Aristotelidis said. Federal sentencing guidelines recommended a sentence of between 24 years to more than 30 years in prison, but because of the plea deal, Cortez sentence was capped at no more than 20 years in prison. Aristotelidis asked the judge to sentence Cortez to five years in prison, but Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Fuchs told the judge that that was too low. The judge said he agreed that Cortez was basically a robot for (the Bandidos), and they took full advantage of him. But there is no way this court can impose a 5-year sentence on someone involved directly in a cold-blooded murder, Ezra said. There are some crimes you simply cant walk away from, no matter how many good things you become involved in. Cortez had been out on bond since pleading guilty, and the judge denied a defense request that Cortez turn himself in at a later date to begin his sentence. Ezra ordered him into custody immediately, in part, for his safety. At the trial, former Bandidos member Richard Steven Merla, testified that a woman working with the Bandidos drove Lara in January 2002 to a dark picnic area along Interstate 37 south of San Antonio, where club members, including Portillo, waited. Merla dragged Lara out of the car, and Merla and Cortez then emptied their pistols into him to retaliate for the killing of Javier Negrete, who was secretary of the Bandidos Southwest San Antonio chapter. Related: Bandidos member Merla testifies against his former bosses Negrete was killed in late 2001 when someone in a sport utility vehicle fired shots at him outside Tiffanys Billiards in San Antonio, Merla testified. Cortez, then a prospect trying to become a member, returned fire, hitting the SUV, Merla said, and was later made a full-patch member. After Merla and Cortez killed Lara, they were were given Expect No Mercy patches, which are dispensed for a noted act for the club, Merla said. Merla is serving 40 years in Texas state prison for the 2004 murder of boxer Robert Pikin Quiroga and 40 years concurrently for Laras slaying. Fuchs said that Cortez corroborated Merlas story and helped the feds identify other crimes Portillo was involved in, but Cortez was not called to testify at the trial, in part, because prosecutors believed his diminished mental capacity would have resulted in confusion when he was questioned on the stand. Guillermo Contreras covers federal court and immigration news in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | gcontreras@express-news.net | Twitter: @gmaninfedland A former comptroller of Southern Folger Detention Equipment LLC, a local company that makes locks and equipment for jails and prisons, pleaded guilty Wednesday to federal charges of wire fraud and filing a false tax return. Ryan Glenn Martinez, 54, was sentenced last week in state court to six years in prison for embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from Southern Folger and spending some of that money on trips to Las Vegas, gambling and male prostitutes, according to state prosecutors. A federal indictment in May, stemming from an IRS criminal investigation, accused Martinez of crimes stemming from the same conduct. The indictment said he set up shell entities to hold money intended to pay Southern Folger for equipment between January 2012 and May 2014, the period he worked for the company. He faced 10 federal counts of wire fraud, three counts of money laundering and four counts of filing false tax returns, but he took a plea deal Wednesday and pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of filing a false tax return. RELATED: Ex-worker of 120-year-old S.A. company accused of stealing $1.4 million U.S. District Judge Fred Biery scheduled sentencing for January. Martinez faces up to 20 years in prison on the federal charges. Southern Folger president Don Halloran said in a phone interview Wednesday that a vigilant employee discovered discrepancies in the accounting. Martinez was terminated in May 2014 after an internal investigation that has since revealed $813,863 was taken, Halloran said. Halloran said Martinezs criminal activity, on top of a market slowdown, forced the small company to eliminate more than 10 positions through two rounds of layoffs and to temporarily suspend the companys profit-sharing program. It was really tough, said Halloran, whose company now has 150 employees. It was like a double whammy. Mike McCrum, Martinezs lawyer in the federal case, said he didnt see any evidence in the federal case that Martinez used any of the embezzled money on prostitutes. McCrum claims that Martinez paid some money back to the company, but Halloran said that is not true. Theres a disagreement how much the company lost, but it will be several hundred thousand dollars, McCrum said. Yes he did wrong, and yes he pleaded guilty, but he shouldnt get a more severe sentence than is justified. The total Martinez must pay back is to be hashed out at sentencing. The federal indictment says Martinez set up shell company M.C. Media LLC and aliases that included MCM LLC to use them in various ways in his scheme. The indictment said he stole checks or money orders issued by customers as payment to Southern Folger, stole checks issued by health insurers to Southern Folger and used MCM LLC as a fake vendor to bill Southern Folger and its then-parent company Phelps-Tointon Inc. The indictment said he deceived co-workers with false emails that caused Southern Folger and Phelps-Tointon to wire money to a bank account he owned and controlled, and covered up his fraud with false entries in the companys books. The state prosecution revealed Martinez was hired by Southern Folger despite a 1991 conviction for federal mail fraud. Halloran said a pre-employment background check didnt reveal the conviction or I wouldnt have hired him. Federal court records also alleged that Martinez used a similar fake company scheme to embezzle about $400,000 from local engine component company Chromalloy, where he worked from 2008 to January 2012, before being employed by Folger. But federal fraud charges for that matter were dismissed because the statute of limitations had already expired, records show. Southern Folger, formerly Southern Steel, has been in operation for 121 years. Guillermo Contreras covers federal court and immigration news in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | gcontreras@express-news.net | Twitter: @gmaninfedland The race between Republican incumbent Sen. Ted Cruz and Democratic Congressman Beto ORourke has become one of the most watched contests in the nation this election season. ORourke, an El Paso congressman since 2012, has built a surprisingly strong campaign in a state that hasnt elected a Democrat to statewide office since 1994. Polls have shown a closer race than many expected at the start of the year. In the first half of 2018, ORourke managed to raise more than twice as much campaign money as Cruz, the runner-up to Trump for the 2016 GOP nomination for president. The Cruz-ORourke race has national impact as Republicans try to hold onto their slim majority in the U.S. Senate. View each candidates profile below. Study the issues, hear from the candidates and research what's on the ballot with our Voter Guide on ExpressNews.com. Godofredo A. Vasquez, Staff photographer / Staff photographer Beto ORourke Party: Democrat Age: 46 More Information Cruz-O'Rourke race has national impact as Republicans try to hold onto Senate majority See More Collapse Hometown: El Paso, Texas Bio: Fourth-generation Texan born and raised in El Paso. Graduated from Columbia University with a degree in English and worked in New York before moving back to El Paso to start a technology company. Ran for El Paso City Council in 2005 and served two terms. Elected to U.S. Congress in 2012 and served on the House Committees for Armed Services and Veterans Affairs. Three children. Issues: Opposes the border wall and has championed a path to citizenship for DACA recipients. Opposed GOP tax cuts. Supports universal background checks and a ban or restrictions on the sale of AR-15s and other assault-style rifles. Supports the Affordable Care Act and abortion rights. Web: Beto for Texas Twitter: BetoORourke Ask a question: Beto ORourke on Facebook Finances: Raised more than $10.4 million during the first half of 2018, more than doubling the $4.6 million raised by Republican U.S. Sen Ted Cruz. Chances: September polls showed ORourke trailing behind incumbent Ted Cruz by nearly a 10-point margin, but other polls have shown a closer race. Surprise: In the early 1990s, ORourke toured the United States and Canada with his punk-rock band Foss. Quote: "We are going to be not-against anyone. We're not going to be against any party. We're not going to be organized and animated against anything. We are going to be for one another. We're going to be for the United States of America, for the great state of Texas, for the big bold ambitious things that we can only do together." Our coverage: Texas U.S. Sen. candidate Beto O'Rourke is throwing out the Democrat playbook for Texas with dozens of campaign trips to small towns in rural Texas. But will his work in far-flung Republican strongholds like Muleshoe, Archer City and Fort Davis pay off in November? Click here to read our full coverage. *** Godofredo A. Vasquez/Staff photographer Ted Cruz Party: Republican Age: 47 Hometown: Houston, Texas Bio: Father was tortured and imprisoned in Cuba and fled the United States to attend the University of Texas at Austin in 1957. Cruz earned a bachelors degree in public policy at Princeton University and went to Harvard Law School, where he won honors on the debate team. Worked as an attorney and served as an adviser on the 2000 presidential campaign of George W. Bush. Became the solicitor general of Texas after working as an associate deputy attorney general at the Department of Justice. Was an adjunct law professor at the University of Texas School of Law from 2004 to 2009. Went back into private practice before being elected to the Senate in 2012. Ran for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination. Two children. Issues: Supports the border wall and has derided as "amnesty" any plan that gives legal status or citizenship to people living in the country illegally, such as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. Leading supporter of the Republican tax cut plan. Has resisted banning assault-style rifles, raising the age for buying long guns, and expanding background checks for firearms sales. Opposes the Affordable Care Act and abortion. Web: Ted Cruz for Senate. Twitter: Ted Cruz Ask a question: Ted Cruz on Facebook. Finances: Raised $4.6 million during the first half of 2018, less than half of the $10.4 million raised by challenger Beto ORourke. Chances: September polls showed Cruz leading ORourke by nearly a 10-point margin. Surprise: Was an editor of the Harvard Law Review and founder of the Harvard Latino Law Review. Quote: Ive got a responsibility, which is to fight for every person in this state. I have worked hand-in-hand with the President on substance. We have delivered remarkable victories. The biggest tax cuts of a generation. Weve seen four million new jobs created since Trump was elected. Texans lives are better. Our coverage: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz once Donald Trump's biggest adversary now is singing Trump's praises as he tries to win re-election in the Senate. Click here to read our full coverage. Now Playing: Democratic Congressman Beto O'Rourke and Republican Senator Ted Cruz debate gun control at their first debate that SMU. Video: C-SPAN *** After showing some initial hesitation, Mayor Ron Nirenberg now is on board with an ambitious plan for Alamo Plaza that will triple its size, make it more reverent and feature a new museum and visitors center. Nirenberg joined Land Commissioner George P. Bush on Tuesday in supporting the public-private project that has been in the planning stages for four years. The City Council will consider it Oct. 18 and already has endorsed some of the general principles. Nirenberg said the plan, while still needing more design work and fine-turning, strikes the right balance. Texans agree that it should be a world-class site that pays proper respect to the fallen, tells the story of the Battle of the Alamo and remains a public space for San Antonians and for all those who come from around the world to pay their respects. This plan accomplishes that goal, he said. Critics have said the plan is moving forward too quickly, but Nirenberg disagreed. As proper reverence for history dictates, this process has not been entered into lightly, nor has it been rushed or lightly considered, he said. To move the plan forward, he and Bush the only members of the Alamo Executive Committee signed a resolution on the anniversary of the Battle of Gonzales, which opened the Texas Revolution in 1835. The resolution was amended and two times longer than the version Bush signed Sept. 12. The new one specifically mentions some of the debated elements of the plan: closing parts of Alamo, Crockett and Houston streets; changing Fiesta parade routes and traditions; moving and restoring the 1930s Cenotaph; and limiting the public access points to the plaza. It also stipulates that the General Land Office obtain an architectural study of the adaptive reuse of the historic Woolworth, Crockett and Palace buildings for the museum and visitors center on the west side of the plaza. Several drafts of the plan have shown those buildings would be demolished to make way for the museum and to expose where the west wall of the Alamo fort once was. Nirenberg noted that in 1960, blacks were first served at the whites-only lunch counter in the Woolworth building, a change that put San Antonio in the national spotlight. Well remember the goal of our city in the advancement of human rights the Woolworth building, which as a peacefully integrated lunch counter was a landmark advancement of civil rights, he said. While those 13 days in 1836 are certainly at the forefront, the history of the Alamo spans nearly 300 years, and fidelity to history requires that the entire story be told. The resolution does not address the conversion of Losoya from one-way to two-way traffic but commits the city to coming up with a service and delivery plan for downtown businesses affected by the street closures. The Losoya proposal, aimed at making up for the closure of two northbound lanes of Alamo Street in the plaza, has drawn concerns from River Walk and downtown business owners who say that street, now with two southbound lanes, already is too congested. Bush called Nirenbergs endorsement a major step forward in the execution of a plan to build a Texas-size museum and commemorate the site of a 1700s mission and a 13-day siege and battle for Texas Independence in 1836. Its time now for all Texans to come together, regardless of our background. Weve had our say. But now its time to move forward with the master plan, Bush said. Local developer Gene Powell, a board member of the nonprofit Alamo Endowment, which plans to raise about $150 million for the museum, said a lot of hard work remains to finish the project by 2024 the tricentennial of the 1724 founding of the Mission San Antonio de Valero at todays Alamo site. I have absolute faith that well get it done, Powell said. The City Council will have a work session about the plan at 2 p.m. next Wednesday. A joint meeting of the Planning Commission and Historic and Design Review Commission also is scheduled that day, at 5:30 p.m. The board of directors of the Texas Independence Trail Region, one of 10 trail regions of the Texas Historical Commission, also endorsed the plan Tuesday as one that would put protective measures in place to preserve this historical battleground and add a world-class museum for future generations. Not everyone is pleased with the plan. Lee Spencer White and other members of the Alamo Defenders Descendants Association who oppose moving the Cenotaph about 500 feet filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday. The suit accuses the Land Office of denying them permission to hold a candlelight memorial and prayer service, a tradition for more than 20 years, in the Alamo church. The Land Office had no official comment on the lawsuit. State Rep. Kyle Biedermann, who had urged Nirenberg to not endorse the plan, said Tuesday he is worried that the Alamos 1836 history will be marginalized if the city, under its lease agreement, forces the state to focus on the mission period in order to promote the Alamo and four other local missions as the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas. I have nothing against the missions. Theyre fantastic. But this is the Alamo, said Biedermann, R-Fredericksburg. Scott Huddleston is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | shuddleston@express-news.net | Twitter: @shuddlestonSA A decorated U.S. Army sergeant who worked in military intelligence at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston admitted to some of the sex-abuse allegations against him after he tried to commit suicide, a witness testified Tuesday morning. Martin Balleza, 40, is on trial in state district court, charged with continuous sex abuse of a child stemming from an outcry by a young girl in February 2016. Hes accused of sexually assaulting several young girls, all relatives. Tuesday afternoon, prosecutors Daryl Harris and Denise Hairston called three of the child victims to testify. At one point, Harris stacked thick files and a book in the witness chair so that the 9-year-old witness could see the jury and court gallery. Has anyone touched your private parts? Harris asked the girl, who pointed to Balleza and said he touched her more than one time, with his hand when she visited Ballezas Northeast San Antonio home. She was 7 at the time. The girl used her own words to describe her anatomy and oral sex. His mouth touched my middle, and he put his middle in my mouth, she told the jury, after identifying her middle. He said dont tell my parents or else hed get in trouble, the 9-year-old said. Another girl, 11, testified that Balleza touched her inappropriately three times when she was at his home. He touched me. He touched my private part where I go No. 1. It made me feel scared. I didnt know what to do, recalled the 11-year-old, who was 9 at the time of the incidents. A 16-year-old testified that she was visiting Ballezas home overnight when the man went into the room where she was sleeping at his home, spread her legs and began touching her over her clothes, then fondled her. I kept resisting, she told the jury. The girl was 14 at the time. She said she was able to get away from him by going into another room of the house. Earlier Tuesday, the military sergeants brother, Steven Balleza testified that he was out of town and was startled when he found out his brother went missing and had attempted suicide after one of the victims made the outcry. Related: SA Police accuse sergeant of abusing children he was babysitting Steven Balleza said when he returned to town, he went to see his brother in the hospital to give him support and tell him he loved him. He (Martin Balleza) told me I wouldnt love him after hearing what he had to say. I told him I loved him and like God forgave me, Id forgive him, Steven Balleza said. He then told the jury the sergeant told him he had hurt and touched young girls because he wasnt getting enough attention from his now-estranged wife. Hes still my brother, I love him, I just hate whats happened, Steven Balleza said, his voice breaking. On cross-examination, Guerrero challenged Steven Ballezas recollection of the discussion in the hospital, pointing out that his brother likely was heavily medicated and questioned whether he was completely lucid. I knew he understood what I was saying because he repeated the prayers for forgiveness and salvation, Steven Belleza said. He repeated everything I said to him. Related: Sergeant accused of child sex assault served in war, earned medals Balleza was an active duty staff sergeant at the time of the alleged incidents. He was assigned to the 201st Military Intelligence Battalion at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, joined the Army in 1997 and worked as a chemical operations specialist. He has been deployed three times to Afghanistan and once to Iraq, and received numerous medals of commendation, an Army spokeswoman said in a statement released at the time. Balleza is still in the military, his lawyer Monica E. Guerrero said. The case is being heard in the 399th state District Court, presided by Judge Frank J. Castro. If convicted, Balleza faces up to life in prison. Elizabeth Zavala is a courts and crime reporter in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | ezavala@express-news.net | Twitter: @elizabeth2863 The Senate overwhelmingly approved a funding bill Wednesday for the Federal Aviation Administration that will require commercial hot-air balloon pilots to undergo medical exams a measure prompted by a horrific balloon crash in Texas that killed 16 people near Lockhart on July 30, 2016. President Donald Trump is expected to sign the bill. Once it becomes law, the FAA has 180 days to revise regulations for balloon pilots, who had been exempt from mandatory health screenings since the 1930s. Its a victory today, said Patricia Morgan, a critic of the FAA whose daughter and granddaughter from San Antonio, Lorilee and Paige Brabson, died in the crash. It will be a complete, total win when President Trump signs that bill. Federal investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board blamed the crash on the poor judgment of pilot Alfred Skip Nichols, who decided to take off on a morning when forecasters were predicting cloudy, foggy weather with poor visibility. Nichols large commercial balloon struck high-voltage power lines, killing everyone on board. The NTSB concluded that Nichols health ailments and medical prescriptions, and the FAAs policy of exempting balloon pilots from mandatory medical exams, were contributing factors in the crash. But the FAA had resisted calls for stronger oversight of balloon pilots. The legislation approved Wednesday takes the decision out of the FAAs hands. Texas congressmen Lloyd Doggett, D-San Antonio; Will Hurd, R-San Antonio, and former U.S. Rep. Blake Farenthold, R-Corpus Christi, wrote the amendment mandating exams for balloon pilots that was attached to the mammoth bill the Senate voted on Wednesday. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz had also written a similar amendment in the Senate. A spokesman for the FAA declined to comment specifically on the balloon legislation Wednesday. In public hearings, FAA officials said stricter oversight of the balloon industry was unwarranted, and theres no guarantee a medical exam would have caught Nichols health problems or prevented him from flying a balloon. Nichols suffered from ailments that included depression, chronic pain and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder which might have raised red flags at the FAA if he had been required to go through a medical exam like pilots of other types of aircraft, according to the NTSB inquiry. On the morning of the balloon ride, Nichols was on a cocktail of prescription medications such as Valium, Prozac and the painkiller oxycodone, according to the NTSB. For Morgan and other family members of victims, its been a long road where it often felt like no one was listening to their concerns about the balloon industry. The crash near Lockhart was the deadliest balloon accident in U.S. history but it was unclear if anything was going to change. Morgan said lawmakers finally started returning her phone calls after the San Antonio Express-News published a story in March 2017 about Congress largely remaining silent after the balloon crash, which was the worst aviation disaster since Colgan Air Flight 3407 stalled during icy weather and crashed near Buffalo on Feb. 12, 2009, killing 50 people. I had politicians calling me left and right, Morgan recalled. Morgan said the FAA bill is a good start toward protecting the public. Shes glad media coverage of the crash kept the tragedy in the spotlight, and shes grateful lawmakers took a concrete step toward improving balloon safety. Im just pleased that they heard us, Morgan said Wednesday. John Tedesco is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | jtedesco@express-news.net | Twitter: @John_Tedesco WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Will Hurd keeps a radar plot on his office wall from Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, charting the moments when operators misidentified the Japanese planes before they attacked, killing 2,300 American troops and destroying more than a dozen ships. For Hurd, R-San Antonio, a former CIA officer, the print is a reminder of the consequences of intelligence failings and a historical marker close at hand as he pursues national security issues in Congress. Its my background, its my passion, he said. Being able to work on the most important national security challenges of the day is what I love doing and why I ran for Congress. Gina Ortiz Jones, Hurds Democratic opponent, also knows something about national security. After a career as an Air Force intelligence officer that landed her in the Iraq War, Jones worked in the Obama administration alongside the National Security Agency and the CIA to spot security risks in foreign investments and ferret out theft of American trade secrets. My background from the very tactical in Iraq to the very strategic, working on economic and security policies in the executive office of the president, is an unmatched national security background in this race, she said. In November, voters in the San Antonio-area 23d Congressional District will choose between two candidates with extensive security experience. The district stretches from San Antonio to the outskirts of El Paso, taking in all or part of 29 counties and including more than 800 miles of border. On ExpressNews.com: This is a knife fight. Rep. Hurds race with Democrat Jones may be costliest in Texas The credentials of Hurd and Jones fit the territory: San Antonio is home to a main National Security Agency hub, the Air Force Cyber Command, and a burgeoning cybersecurity industry. And theres that expanse of border, a front-burner matter of security in Congress. After nearly two terms, Hurd, 41, already is a leader on cybersecurity, chairing a panel that explores hacking threats and focuses heavily on advanced technologies, especially artificial intelligence. Jones, 37, brings combat experience along with her intelligence background and what she describes as her understanding of veterans needs. There are, of course, differences in their paths to politics. Hurd: She was an analyst and I was an operator. Jones: As an operator, he would know that it was actually the analysts work that drove the things that he went out to collect. The questions that people like him go and answer, I wrote those. Hurd: I took many analysts with me to give them real-world experience on the ground. The difference is, collectors are the ones out on the streets, in the back alleys, living in these environments. In the end, both agreed, analysts and operators work together. Hurd: Shaped by the menace of al-Qaida At Texas A&M University, Hurd, a sophomore computer science major, decided to expand his horizons. He invested $425 of the $450 in his checking account to take journalism classes in Mexico City. Later, he came under the sway of former Director of Central Intelligence Robert Gates, who would become Texas A&M president before returning to Washington to head the Pentagon under two administrations. But Hurds decision to apply to the CIA wouldnt become a sure thing until he heard a lecture from former CIA counterintelligence chief James Olson, who had joined the faculty at College Station, in which he talked about life as a spy. The next day, I went to his office and said tell me more, Hurd recalled. In October 2000, driving his Toyota 4Runner from Texas to Washington to report to work at the CIA, Hurd learned that 17 sailors had died when an explosives-laden boat rammed the USS Cole, a guided-missile destroyer, off the southern coast of Yemen. The attack was attributed to al-Qaida. Related: Here are the candidates running for U.S. Senate in Texas in November Hurd was still in training when he was sent to Yemen as the CIA accelerated efforts to pinpoint other terrorism threats on the Arab Peninsula. On Sept. 11, 2001, Hurd was back at CIA headquarters at Langley, Va. He had to walk part way back to Washington because of traffic and chaos in the city. At 2:30 a.m. the next day, he was ordered to return to the basement at Langley. He wasnt told why. Four hours later, Hurd learned the reason: He was being assigned to a special operations unit headed by Henry Crumpton, who became known as a key architect of the war in Afghanistan. My CIA career literally started by dealing with al-Qaida and was influenced by them, he said. Hurd managed CIA undercover operations in Afghanistan. On Capitol Hill, he likes to say, I was the dude in the back alleys at four in the morning. In an interview, Hurd added a few details about his work Afghanistan. We helped remove bombs off the street that were being used to target the U.S. and international partners. We dismantled suicide vests; people were manufacturing them there. We helped out with (CIA) station operations. Hurd also briefed members of Congress who traveled to South Asia. He found the task disconcerting when some of the visitors didnt know the differences between the branches of the Muslim faith. In 2009, he left the CIA after nine and a half years and joined a cybersecurity company, intent on becoming a member of Congress. From terrorism to artificial intelligence In August, at a campaign kick-off in San Antonio, Hurd warned family and close supporters about China. These are serious times and we need serious people. China is a true existential threat. By 2049, China is trying to become the lone world superpower, he said. They dont care about things like breaking into our systems and stealing our information and our intellectual property. It took until 2014 for Hurd to win his congressional seat after losing a primary bid in 2010 and then joining the security firm headed by Crumpton, a mentor of his. Focusing heavily on cybersecurity in Congress, Hurds list of accomplishments includes legislation that prescribes a new system for federal government purchase of some $80 billion annually of IT equipment. His bill aims to save money and move away from upkeep of older computer gear vulnerable to intrusions. From his post as chairman of a House Oversight subcommittee on IT, Hurd has stepped up his pace of analyzing - and often promoting advanced technologies. He has conducted as many hearings on artificial intelligence, or AI, as the rest of Congress combined. Related: Tax cut becomes a campaign issue for Jones, not Hurd For three days running last week, Hurd devoted time to China and AI, including release of a report urging conscious, direct, and spirited leadership from the Trump administration to confront the China threat. They have stolen our technology. They are sending their kids to our schools and getting them to come back and starting to build their own systems, he said in an interview. If they get there first and they are the ones who are able to set the de facto international standard, it will mean that the civil liberties we have enshrined in our Bill of Rights will not be important in the future in international systems. Jones: From college to combat Gina Ortiz Joness route to national security expertise began even earlier than Hurds. After graduating near the top of her class at John Jay High School in San Antonio, she won a four-year Air Force ROTC scholarship to Boston University. After earning a graduate degree in economics, she joined the Air Force and trained as an intelligence officer. Jones deployed to Iraq in 2005 as part of the 682nd Expeditionary Air Support Operations, stationed at Camp Victory, near Baghdad. She provided what she referred to as situational awareness to pilots. For instance, she would report how long it would take for aircraft to respond to enemy engagement. When asked about lessons she learned from combat, Jones recalls the allies she worked alongside from Europe and Japan. When we see some of the things that are happening on the international stage, and unfortunately the president was just laughed at in the UN, it really does cause me to think about how some of these actions will affect peoples willingness to help us in the future, she said. Operating in South America, Africa After three years of active duty, Jones, who had attained the rank of first lieutenant, returned to San Antonio in 2006 to help care for her mother, who was battling colon cancer. For two years, she worked at Fort Sam Houston as a consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton, advising on a range of matters related to Latin America. Jones was plugged into South American political and military matters at the height of Venezuela President Hugo Chavezs power, during which time he alarmed American leaders with his efforts to export his brand of socialism across the continent. She focused on how Chavez and other leaders were making decisions, the reach of their influence and the impact on U.S. interests in the region, she said. Later in 2008, Jones had a decision go to law school or join the new U.S. Africa Command, based in Stuttgart, Germany. She chose Africa and the appeal of being on a team that set up the command. She traveled widely in Africa, carrying out intelligence assignments that included focus on the troubled country of Libya, ruled then by Muammar Gaddafi. One of her tasks was to measure response from around the world to Operation Odyssey Dawn, the code name for the 2011 attack by U.S. and European forces on the Libyan air defense system. The allies sought to enforce a no-fly zone and prevent Gaddafis regime from carrying out further violence on its own citizens and opposition groups. In Africa, Jones worked alongside local militaries, including in Mozambique, where socialism had recently been abandoned in favor of a free-market economy. She recalled a meeting in Mozambique, seated around a table with military and local leaders, dealing with health issues. It dawned on me that Im the only woman in the room and we were talking about health care. But the main health care and home care providers in the country are women, she said. In 2012, President Barack Obama set about tackling the foreign trade imbalance that was fast becoming the political issue that would help fuel Donald Trumps rise. By executive order, Obama set up the Interagency Trade Enforcement Center, and Jones was asked to be a senior adviser examining matters such as the growing theft of American intellectual property. I understand the importance of foreign investment. I understand how the economy works. But I also understand how all of these things fit in the context of national security, she said. Jones also worked for a year-and-a-half at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, leaving early in the Trump administration. That opportunity, combined with her military and intelligence experiences, suggest the approaches she would take in Congress. I will speak specifically about the kinds of questions that we must ask before we send our men and women into harms way. But I also want to ensure that when we do work on an issue that were not just looking at it from a military perspective. How does it affect our economic security and how does this affect our overall objectives? she said. The way we are going to develop the partners and allies we need is through strong economic ties. But we have to do this with our values. Its always our values that carry the day. By the time Engine 36 and Engine 22 arrived, their lights flashing brightly, smoke poured from the structures windows and doors. Eight firefighters all clad in yellow jackets, black helmets and Scott air packs, jumped from the fire trucks and headed toward the front entrance, dragging the massive fire hose behind them. After consulting with each other, three grabbed the hose and made their way inside into the heat and the smoke. They have no idea what they are going to encounter, said Fire Chief Charles Hood, minutes before the fire-training exercise began. The smoke is only going to get worse. Dozens of firefighters joined by Mayor Ron Nirenberg and City Manager Sheryl Scully gathered Tuesday for the official launch of the Scott Deem Training Facility, a new center built in the wake of a strip mall blaze that killed Deem and left two others injured. Spokesman Woody Woodward said the idea for the training facility came about organically. After the fire on May 18, 2017, several department leaders suggested the need for a training facility to help prepare firefighters for the variety of situations they face daily. Meanwhile, an East Side warehouse on Cherry and Nolan became available after the departments maintenance crew moved to a larger space. The warehouse, with roughly 15,000 square feet, was a perfect structure for a training center. The tour Tuesday comes as the San Antonio Fire Department braces for a federal report examining the circumstances surrounding Deem's death. A state report, released in February, identified 11 mistakes that were made as firefighters battled the massive blaze at the Ingram Square Shopping Center. The mistakes ranged in severity, but several focused on firefighting operations, the accountability of commanders and training preparedness. We have an obligation to make sure that this doesnt happen again, Hood said after the report was released. And so that is what were trying to do. On ExpressNews.com: Firefighter Scott Deems death was preventable, report says Since the report release, the department has identified a number of policies and training practices that needed to change. The departments updates began in June 2017. On Tuesday, two San Antonio Fire crews participated in the training exercise as Hood, Nirenberg and Sculley looked on. Inside the warehouse, officials built a small wooden structure that resembled a home. It had couches, chairs and other props to make it as realistic as possible. It also had cameras so trainers can observe and critique the firefighting operations. Officials designed the exercise Tuesday to resemble the fire at the Ingram Square Shopping Center, at least in some ways. After firefighters arrived on scene, they were told that two residents were trapped inside, needing rescue. As the firefighters attempted the rescue, an instructor altered the scenario so firefighters did not know what to expect. He informed the crew that a firefighter was lost and needed rescue. At that point, the crew set up a Rapid Intervention Team to attempt the rescue, as protocol suggests. Nirenberg said Tuesday that watching the exercise showed the difficult conditions firefighters face daily. It gives you a certain appreciation on how difficult it is to get someone out of a building, he said. In the coming months, dozens of firefighters will go through the same training, which will focus on Mayday protocols. Four companies will complete the training, twice a day, Hood said. Moving forward, the structure can be adapted to replicate fake entrapments, entanglements and zero-visibility conditions. This is a grueling job, Hood said. These crews could run into something like this this evening. Emilie Eaton is a criminal justice reporter in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | eeaton@express-news.net | Twitter: @emilieeaton In a secret recording, firefighters union President Chris Steele tells a group of on-duty firefighters that the union is pushing to amend the city charter in order to pressure the city for a new contract and to replace Mayor Ron Nirenberg with our guy, Councilman Greg Brockhouse, in the 2019 election. Everything were doing here is a strategic objective, is to get us a contract within the next year, Steele is heard saying in the recording, made in late 2017. Steeles frank remarks on the recording are in sharp contrast with his public statements depicting the union-backed charter amendments as an effort to make life better for all San Antonians, not a play to bolster the unions political leverage or improve firefighters pay and benefits. Voters will decide on the three amendments on Nov. 6. The Go Vote No campaign, which is opposing the amendments, provided a portion of the recording to the San Antonio Express-News. A Fire Department employee who spoke on condition of anonymity said the full recording captured Steeles address to on-duty firefighters at a fire station and runs more than two hours. In the 45-second excerpt, Steele refers to a lawsuit the city filed to invalidate the evergreen clause that has been a feature of the unions contracts for years. The clause says that after a contract expires, most of its provisions remain in effect for up to 10 years while a new agreement is being negotiated. Lower courts ruled against the city and when the Texas Supreme Court declined to hear the citys appeal this summer, the union effectively won. The tactical objective is get the city to drop the lawsuit, get the city to negotiate fairly, because at the end of this when we go to the table, they can do like they did in mediation, they can just jack us around, Steele says. The third thing is set it up to where May of 2019, we can put our own guy in the mayors office, which would be Greg Brockhouse in the mayors office. The recording was made when Steele was touring firehouses to persuade his members to approve an extra assessment of $10 per paycheck on top of their regular union dues to fund a petition drive to put the charter amendments on the ballot and, now, to persuade voters to approve them. Steeles remarks to firefighters may have run afoul of the unions collective-bargaining agreement, which prohibits the union from engaging in political activity on Fire Department property. If violations of the collective bargaining agreement or the Fire Departments rules occurred, Fire Chief Charles Hood said in an interview, the city would investigate all allegations and I would take the appropriate disciplinary action. Steele did not respond to a call seeking comment, but did issue a news release praising Brockhouse. Is it any surprise that firefighters would fully support Greg Brockhouse running for mayor? No. We have seen an extreme lack of leadership in the Mayors office over the years, Steele said in the release. In Greg, we see someone who listens to the people, someone who wont be owned by the city manager and/or special interests. That clip is a minuscule 45 seconds of an hour long presentation on how community groups asked us to do these petitions, and how Greg standing for what is right and stepping out front could propel him to the mayors seat and allow us to move past the citys refusal to fairly bargain, the release said. Brockhouse, who worked for the firefighters union as a consultant and remains a staunch supporter, said he would welcome the unions support if he decides to challenge Nirenberg next year. I would hope that when the time comes, they would support me. Im not surprised by it, and actually, Im thankful, he said. Ive aligned myself as the No. 1 public-safety defender on the City Council, and I wear that badge with honor while others try to demean me for it. Brockhouse acknowledged that the charter amendments would benefit the union. Will I sit here and say is this 100 percent altruistic? No, he said. Theyre investing their money, its their contract they have to negotiate. Thats why one of the amendments is a binding arbitration tool. Theyre being very clear here in their intentions... . I dont think theyre hiding their intentions. I just think theres more than one intention. The charter amendments would make it easier to use referendums to challenge council decisions, including on tax and utility rates; cap the salary of future city managers and impose a term limit; and give the firefighters union unilateral power to decide when contract negotiations would be taken to binding arbitration. A union Facebook post last month said: From the start the San Antonio Professional Firefighters have been forthright in saying this is not our campaign, IT IS THE PEOPLES. Your firefighters voted to help the citizens gather these signatures, the post said. They voted to spend their paychecks to secure your right to vote. But these propositions do not belong to the firefighters. THEY BELONG TO THE PEOPLE. The union campaign uses the slogan Approved By Citizens a reference to propositions A, B and C. Nirenbergs relations with the union have deteriorated since he was elected mayor in 2017, in part because he pressed forward with the citys 2014 lawsuit over the evergreen clause. In a spring edition of the Grapevine, the unions newsletter, Steele wrote that the union was at war with the mayor and City Manager Sheryl Sculley. Between this campaign and the next State Legislative Session, we will put to rest every issue of contention we have with Sculley and the Mayor, he wrote. The war will be over. The mayor said the recording revealed Steeles true intentions. We have always known that these propositions are about Chris Steele. They are not about the people of San Antonio, Nirenberg said. They are the product of Chris Steeles obsessive hunger for power, and now he has been exposed by his own words. The mayor said the amendments would be destructive to San Antonio and ultimately lead to tax increases and reductions in services. I intend to remain focused on protecting the people of San Antonio and defeating the special interest propositions in November, he said. Josh Baugh is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | jbaugh@express-news.net | Twitter: @jbaugh Representatives from several local Democrat organizations on Tuesday called for San Antonians to stand up against the local fire unions three controversial charter amendments, a day after a major Republican leader also called for voters to reject the amendments. At the Democrats news conference Tuesday, Mayor Ron Nirenberg seized on the double-barrelled rejection. This is about protecting our citys future, Nirenberg said. This is not about Democrats or Republicans or independents or Libertarians or Rastafarians or vegetarians this is about making sure that every citizen in San Antonio knows that we work together, the whole community, to protect our future. Monday, San Antonio Republican Joe Straus, the outgoing speaker of the Texas House of Representatives, encouraged local voters to reject the fire unions amendments in the Nov. 6 election. Addressing members of the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, Straus was outlining all of the headway that San Antonio and the state have made here when he took a moment to talk about the three propositions placed on the ballot by the San Antonio Professional Fire Fighters Association. READ ALSO: San Antonio city and business leaders decry propositions at Go Vote No rally Theres something easy that I want to mention here at this chamber lunch today that all of us can and should do in a few weeks to protect these and other efforts to promote economic growth in San Antonio, he said. We need to protect the future of this community by voting no on Propositions A, B and C. During their news conference Tuesday, the Democrat groups also renounced an August endorsement of the amendments by the Bexar County Democratic Party. Next week, there will be another meeting of the county party, where precinct chairs may consider rescinding the endorsement. Chris Steele, longtime president of the fire union who announced the county partys endorsement at a news conference in September, seemed unfazed by the mounting opposition from both sides of the political aisle. Both political parties in this city have people who side with corrupt backroom dealing business people. They neglect and ignore the people they are supposed to serve, he said in a text message. It is a shame when politicians choose corruption over people. These propositions are about the people who have long been ignored and this is proof we should all vote yes. Steele and his allies say the amendments would return power to voters and are good for democracy, but those who rallied against them Tuesday disagreed. The amendments would make it easier to use referendums to challenge council decisions, including on tax and utility rates; cap the salary of future city managers and place a term limit on them; and give the fire union unilateral power to decide when contract negotiations would be taken to binding arbitration. READ ALSO: Go Vote No campaign goes on offensive with large TV buy One of the things wed like for you to keep in mind is that we have to vote no because instead of giving people a voice, these propositions will give lobbyists and special interests unfair power. We have to vote no because instead of making San Antonio stronger, they would put us at risk, said Esmeralda Rodriguez, chairwoman of the Northwest Democrats. Sloan Martin, a politically active Alamo Colleges student, also encouraged fellow San Antonians to vote no. I am a 19-year-old Democrat organizer. I am a woman. I am a proud Latina. And I am a San Antonio native, she said. And I am proud because of all the progressive measures our city has made with our new City Council. Martin said she was inspired to organize because of initiatives such as the citys bolstered nondiscrimination ordinance and the recent success of the mandatory paid sick leave movement. She said she worried that passage of the amendments would squash burgeoning political activism among millennials, partly because the referendum amendment would hand over power to a small margin of voters. This prop would disenfranchise millennial voters, she said. Looking for evidence of across-the-aisle political accord in these hyper-polarized times? Just sit down with Chip Roy and Joseph Kopser and ask them how seriously they take the ballooning federal budget deficit. Roy is a Republican, a conservative ideologue, a former aide to Texas Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz and the ghostwriter for former Gov. Rick Perrys 2010 tea-party call to arms, Fed Up! Kopser is a Democrat, Army veteran, aerospace engineer and tech entrepreneur who prides himself on his practical, problem-solving skills. These two Austinites are engaged in an admirably civil, ideas-based fight for the District 21 congressional seat being vacated by San Antonio Republican Lamar Smith. And one idea they share is that its not acceptable for the federal government to rack up deficits of a trillion dollars a year or allow the national debt to exceed $21.5 trillion. We couldnt agree more on the debt, Kopser said Tuesday at a meeting with the San Antonio Express-News editorial board. READ ALSO: Kopser and Roy in 21st District runoffs That may seem like a small thing, but its not. Forty years ago, Jimmy Carter risked alienating his own party and, ultimately, invited an intra-party challenge from Ted Kennedy with his drive to fulfill a campaign promise to balance the federal budget by the end of his first term. A little more than a decade later, George H.W. Bush essentially wrote his own political suicide note when he compromised with congressional Democrats on tax increases designed to get the deficit in line. More often, what weve seen from elected officials is that deficits only bother them when the other party is in power. Ronald Reagan often called for a balanced-budget amendment to the constitution, but as president he allowed the federal debt to triple. George W. Bush was a deficit hawk until he got into the White House, where he inherited a budget surplus from Bill Clinton and then presided over a doubling of the federal debt. These days, there is considerable debate among economic theorists about whether the federal debt even matters; whether there is any serious economic price to pay for running up big deficits. You wont hear that kind of talk, however, from either Kopser or Roy. At a September 19 KTSA town hall, Kopser warned that the federal debt is getting to be an issue of national security. READ ALSO: District backgrounds shape Democratic runoff between Kopser, Wilson for District 21 On Tuesday, Roy told the Express-News editorial board that he was at violent odds with his fellow Republicans who he said are talking out of both sides of their mouths on the issue of fiscal discipline. A couple of hours earlier, at his own KTSA town hall, Roy said he opposed raising the debt ceiling, unless it comes with structural reforms that will massively decrease our deficit spending. When it comes to the deficit, Kopser and Roy agree on the diagnosis. But they differ on the cure. Roy defends last years $1.5 trillion GOP tax cut, which slashed corporate tax rates. Roys reasoning is that no budgetary problems can be solved without strong economic growth and he sees the tax cut as a stimulus to getting there. In other words, a short-term cost that comes with long-term benefit. Kopser makes a similar argument when it comes to universal health care, saying it will initially require increased government investment, but will eventually cut costs because it will make people healthier. Kopser regards the tax cut as a profoundly irresponsible act. By ballooning our debt by $1.5 trillion, it means thats money that cant be spent on infrastructure, money that cant be spent on education and teachers pay, Kopser said. What it does do is signal the fact that fiscally conservative Republicans have no place anymore in their party. Its been taken over by the far right, who are out to give whatever they can to that top five percent, just for pure political gains. After the midterm elections of 2002, when Paul ONeill, George W. Bushs Treasury secretary, fretted about what a new round of tax cuts would do to the growing federal deficit, then-Vice President Dick Cheney infamously told him, Reagan proved that deficits dont matter. In purely political terms, Cheney was right. Even the 2010 tea-party wave election, which flipped the U.S. House to the GOP, was more about the notion that the government was taking over peoples lives and exerting too much control, than it was about the precise dollar amount of the federal debt. Put the debt aside in terms of damaging the economy and destabilizing, Roy said. Its proxy for federal governments action. Its proxy for all of the spending activities, programs, laws, interference with the state of Texas, individual freedom, businesses, economic growth, etc. In other words, its just the machine in Washington continuing to grow. And I dont care which side of the aisle youre on, you should be very concerned. Joseph Kopser wouldnt put it that way, but hes definitely concerned. @gilgamesh470 Gilbert Garcia is a columnist covering the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | ggarcia@express-news.net | Twitter: @gilgamesh470 Hawaii teachers have joined the Red for Ed movement : On Tuesday, dozens of teachers across the state staged a walk-in protest to spread awareness about what they see as a lack of funding for public schools. Specifically, theyre urging support for a ballot measure that would put in place a property tax to fund schools. The measure, which voters will consider in November, would tax investment real estate worth more than $1 million. The states counties have urged the state Supreme Court to invalidate the ballot question , arguing that it misleads voters by not mentioning the word tax. But the state teachers union has said the money that would be raised from the measure is critical for schools. While Hawaiis average teacher salary is $56,651, according to the National Education Association , the union contends that when adjusted for cost-of-living, Aloha State teachers are the lowest paid in the nation. The union has also said the state is among the lowest in per-pupil spending. During the walk-ins, teachers rallied outside of their schools, waving signs, in an attempt to drum up community support. Then, they walked in to their schools together as a show of solidarity. According to the Hawaii Tribune-Herald , one teacher said this is a dry run for an official walk-in on Oct. 23 when were going to do this en masse. Hawaii is the latest state to experience widespread teacher activism. Walk-ins were a popular form of protest in Oklahoma and Arizona before the teachers there decided to walk out of their classrooms for an extended work stoppage. See Also: Teacher Strikes Are Heating Up in More States Hawaii has long had difficulty recruiting and retaining teachers. According to the state teachers union, there are more than 1,000 teaching positions either vacant or filled with unqualified teachers who are emergency hires. The situation is especially bad in rural areas of the state. My colleague Daarel Burnette II reported recently that Democrats across the country are pushing for tax increases that would generate money for public schools and teachers. Theyre gambling that voters are so alarmed at the financial disrepair of their local school systems that theyre willing to tax states corporations and wealthiest citizens to bail them out, Burnette wrote. It helps that teachers have recently become much more sympathetic figures. I recently wrote about the shift in public opinion teachers have seemingly gone from being bad actors ruining schools to the victims of an unfair system. The public is much more concerned now than previously about their low salaries and challenging working conditions. But experts question whether voters support for teachers will extend into a willingness to raise taxes, in Hawaii and elsewhere. Im wondering if its going to get beyond that poor dear sympathy stage to, Yeah, Im willing to give my money to teachers because its in the public interest, said David Labaree, a professor emeritus at the Stanford Graduate School of Education. Thats a much harder case to make. Image of Hilo, Hawaii. Caleb Jones/AP Gov. Greg Abbott launched a statewide TV ad Monday featuring a family affected by the Sutherland Springs mass shooting last November that left 26 people dead and 20 others injured. The two-minute ad, which is slated to run in every media market in Texas, features Julie Workman, whose son, Kris Workman, 35, was shot in the back and left paralyzed. Abbott, who was paralyzed from the waist down at the age of 26, visited the Workmans in the hospital after the shooting. The business community has a long history of helping the community at large and the Bethel Chamber of Commerce is continuing that tradition by asking people who attend its events to bring canned food items to donate. Food collected at events will be brought to the Bethel Community Food Pantry on Greenwood Avenue. The Pantry is a volunteer-run nonprofit organization that provides free food and hygiene items to Bethel residents in need. We think its an important cause in the community and we feel its absolutely appropriate for the business community to rally around that, Bradley Koltz, Bethel Chamber of Commerce executive director, said. They need food on their shelves as we get into the busy season for them. For people at our events, its a way to not only have a great time, but give back to the community, too. The program will kick off with a new event for the Bethel Chamber of Commerce. Its first OctoberFeast will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 12, at The Stony Hill Preserve at 67 Stony Hill Road. The grounds include a building in case of rain. OctoberFeast is an extension of the popular BeerFest held each year by the Bethel Chamber, Koltz said. Next weeks 21-and-over event will include music, food, beer, wine and cider. More than 20 food service businesses will be on hand, including restaurants, bakeries and wineries. We remodeled the BeerFest to include wine and food, Koltz said. Visit the Bethel Chamber of Commerces website for tickets. Koltz hopes the event proves to be as popular as the BeerFest, which sold out in July, and the chamber is able to make a sizable donation to the Pantry. Susan Pople, secretary of the Pantry, said she had previously been in contact with Dawn Fawcett of the chamber regarding the Pantry needs. The Pantry collects and distributes food, cleaning and personal hygiene items. I think its wonderful, Pople said of the chambers initiative. We can use all the food we can get. We have a lot of groups that make donations and its all important. The community is very generous. The Bethel Community Food Pantry started in 1992 at St. Thomas before becoming its own nonprofit entity. It started by feeding 20 families and now serves more than 60 families, Pople said. We need a lot of food, she said. The writer may be reached at cbosak@hearstmediact.com; 203-731-3338 BRIDGEPORT Jean Stott sat cross-legged on a new grave at Park Cemetery Wednesday afternoon, her tears darkening the freshly turned soil. My grandfather is supposed to be buried here, the Shelton woman cried. But now I dont know where he is. A small stone at the head of the grave has the name of the World War II veteran Richard Bouchard, who died in 1979. But right in front of Bouchards stone is a marker and a photo of Lucila Torres, who appears to have been buried in the same spot just two weeks ago. Like Stott, dozens of people from all over the state descended on the Lindley Street cemetery Wednesday, following publication of a story by Hearst Connecticut Media about human bone fragments and broken casket parts found by police around the cemetery evidence, they said, that older graves were moved to make room for new ones. People raced to the final resting places of loved ones, some whooping for joy on finding graves intact, others wandering around in a daze, or like Stott, sobbing on finding someone else apparently buried in their familys plot. Sandy Franklin, of Bethel, who has relatives spanning a number of generations buried in the cemetery, pointed out places where two stones from unrelated people had been placed together on plots, while other stones had just been turned over, hiding the inscriptions. The only pristine stone appeared to belong to cemetery manager Dale LaPrade, and was inscribed with her name and a birth date. LaPrade is alive, but she was not around on Thursday. Heartbroken relatives Bridgeport Police Chief Armando Perez said the situation at the cemetery was disheartening, but likely not criminal. More for you Human bones, casket pieces found scattered in cemetery It appears she (LaPrade) is an older person who is running the cemetery and perhaps doesnt have the skills necessary to do so but it does not appear that it rises to criminal activity and an arrest, the chief said after reviewing the results of an investigation by his detectives. Cheryl Jansen, formerly of Shelton who has four generations of her family buried in the 140-year-old Lindley Street cemetery, said she is disappointed with the chiefs explanation, but not surprised. There are no real penalties for what (LaPrade) did, and I think thats what the police found out, Jansen said. A spokesperson for the state Department of Consumer Protection said it has received no complaints regarding Park Cemetery and referred a reporter to the state Department of Public Health, which licenses cemeteries. That department did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Jansen, who now lives in Florida, filed a lawsuit against LaPrade seeking to have her fired and replaced with another manager. A Superior Court judge is considering her request. During a hearing in court on Tuesday, police detectives Jorge Cintron and Kimberly Biehn told Superior Court Judge Elizabeth Stewart that dozens of headstones, some dating to the 1800s, had been moved at Park Cemetery so the newly dead could be buried in plots stacked on old graves. New dirt was put over older graves and new graves were put there, Biehn testified. There was fresh soil over old head stones and they were in the process of building an access road through the stones, Cintron testified. In the woods we found old headstones and human bones that had just been thrown around. Cintron said a grave digger told him he had been ordered by LaPrade to throw old bones and caskets away to make room for new graves. Its disheartening at best, Perez said. Money troubles Several area funeral homes still do business with Park Cemetery, even though a cemetery historian testified at the hearing that most of the cemetery was already fully occupied years ago. The George Peterson Funeral home has a burial scheduled there on Friday. We have never had any issues with the cemetery, said funeral director Leslie Vincent. I use the cemetery a lot, said Andre Baker Jr., director of the Baker-Isaac Funeral Home. Ive dealt with her (LaPrade), she has always been polite and forthcoming in making arrangements with us and our families. Ive never experienced any problems, nothing unusual. David Larson, director of Larson Funeral Home, said he used Park Cemetery in the past. Im familiar with Dale and have not had any problems, but its obvious the conditions at the cemetery have deteriorated over the years, said Larson. I always just assumed it was because of a lack of funding. Jansen said the cemetery is owned by an association made up of the families who have loved ones buried there. She believes that LaPrade and her husband started as employees of the cemetery more than 10 years ago and slipped into the role of managers after a vacancy. LaPrades husband no longer works there because of health issues. Court records show the LaPrades are being sued for more than $9,000 owed a company for trash pickup at the cemetery. The couple lost their Stratford home to foreclosure last year. LaPrade did not return calls for comment. Dale LaPrade, although issued a subpoena, did not appear for the court hearing. She had had multiple opportunities to come to court and tell her story and she didnt do it, Jansen said. She is old and has some disabilities, and my goal is just to get rid of her and get someone in there who can run it right. Who would have thought you would have to worry about your loved ones after they are gone? Jansen said. Its like going through their deaths all over again. STAMFORD City representatives seeking to better understand the South End taxing district housing the massive Harbor Point development recently hit an obstacle in their fact-finding mission the city. Several members of the boards Land Use Committee chided Mayor David Martins administration during a recent meeting for a perceived lack of understanding of the district and called for more transparency. People dont fully understand what the citys agreement is with that district, thats palpable in this room and thats palpable outside of this room, said city Rep. Nina Sherwood, D-8. That generally stems from a lack of transparency. The tax-incremement-financing (TIF) district, formed a decade ago to pay for millions of dollars of infrastructure improvements in the South End, has come under renewed interest and scrutiny in recent months after another district in the neighborhood began taking shape. The TIF works by the district selling bonds to finance improvements. A percentage of property taxes created from developments surrounding the improvements then goes back to the district to pay principle and interest on those bonds. City Rep. Megan Cottrell, D-4, called the hearing to seek financial documents, including annual and quarterly reports. These reports are required in state legislation and an agreement between the Harbor Point Improvement District and the city, she said. She came up empty. Frustrated city representatives then spent nearly two hours going back and forth with Economic Development Director Thomas Madden and Chief of Staff Michael Pollard. Madden eventually said the information is public and told representatives to seek documentation at the districts offices. Representatives could make copies for 25 cents a page, he said. Committee chairman city Rep. Virgil de la Cruz, D-2, was surprised at the invitation to view documents under Freedom of Information laws instead of having them brought to the meeting. Do we have really have to FOIA? he asked. I dont want to use a sledgehammer to drive in a nail? Pollard said not to rush to judgment as city representatives decried a lack of transparency. The agreements are a decade old, he said, and came prior to him and Maddens time in City Hall. He promised to have Mike Handler, city director of administration, attend a future meeting and explain the district. Handler did not return a call for a comment. Still, the lack of information incensed board members. The meeting had been on the agenda for more than a month. Longtime city Rep. Annie Summerville, D-6, said she was ashamed the city didnt have a better handle on the district. Its very obvious, we have dropped the ball on this, Summerville said. We have to take the responsibility for not being the watchdog. The district, controlled by developer Building and Land Technology through a board comprised of four company representatives and Madden, is supposed to forward information about the district to the city, Cottrell said. But the city only has a webpage from the Town Clerks office of annual meeting minutes and another webpage on the Board of Representatives website with years-old links, many of which dont work. In a statement, BLT Chief Operating Officer Ted Ferrarone said the public is welcome to see all the documents in question. Members of the public have done so in the past, he said. He also noted that financial documents on the district and its bonds are available online through a website operated by the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board, the same site where the city posts its bond disclosures. The Harbor Point TIF has been very successful for the city and transformative for the South End, and is great model of a public private partnership, he said. barry.lytton@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2263; @bglytton STAMFORD The Summer Theatre of New Canaans Peter Pan embodied the spirit of childhood. Actors Omen Sade and Sarah White kicked off the performance with a pulsing drum beat and a chant for students to sing along. The two actors kept the Stillmeadow Elementary School audience engaged with singalongs, raps, hip-hop music and even water bottle spray meant to mimic the ocean. All the while, the two used the power of reusable props to transport children to Neverland. And costumes like a reversible flatbrim with Pan written on it, hand-puppets and a golden hook created a full cast of characters in the school auditorium. But the fun gave way to more serious themes and discussion about bullying, feelings and making good choices once the hour-long performance wrapped up. The show, which debuted this summer with the Summer Theatre of New Canaan, is part of the groups effort to expand yearlong programming with touring educational shows in schools. Stillmeadow students were the first to see the show in its condensed format for schools. The actors will also perform in Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan and Milford before taking the show to the Mercury Theater in Chicago for two months. Executive Producer Ed Libonati said the company began touring schools last year with Robin Hood and a show called Balloonacy. They were so well-received that the company decided to commission another show, Peter Pan, from Bros Do Prose, a playwriting company, co-founded by Sade that adapts literature into interactive two-person shows. We produce new works that are educational for students today and what they relate to, artistic director Melody Libonati said. In Bros Do Prose, the backstory is told of Captain Hook, who was bullied as a child and how that affected him as an adult. It also incorporates hip-hop music with the actors portraying two high schoolers telling the story in a music classroom. The interactive element is key, Ed Libonati said. You dont want to play down to them, he said. You want to play to them and their strengths. According to Stillmeadow administrative intern Iuliana Roata, the messages align with the RULER program from Yale that teaches students how to recognize and regulate their emotions. Our focus is making good choices, being able to regulate and making responsible decisions to be ready for learning, Roata said. erin.kayata@stamfordadvocate.com; (203) 964-2265; @erin_kayata The last time the State Board of Education approved the education plan for a batch of charter schools vying to open in Connecticut, the schools quickly started enrolling students. Enroll now! Accepting applications for grades 6-12, a billboard facing the highway in Bridgeport read during Spring 2015. But there was a problem: the state had not committed to spending the $4.6 million needed to open the new schools in the upcoming year. Lawmakers eventually caved and provided the funding amid pressure from the families who had already won a coveted seat in one of the new charter schools - but only after updating state law to clarify that the state education boards approval of an educational plan does not automatically mean the school will open. That decision rests with the governor and the legislature providing the funding. On Wednesday, the state board will consider approving two more charter school plans - including one from the same operator that backed the state into a corner to fund Stamford Charter School for Excellence in 2015. This time, Northeast Charter Schools Network says it will not conduct a lottery or offer enrollment to any children before state funding is approved. The applicants are committed to following the approval process step-by-step. If they are approved by the board, they will move on to the next phase in the process, Yam Menon, Connecticut State Director of the Northeast Charter Schools Network, said. These two new schools would be wonderful additions to the communities of Danbury and Norwalk. Calls to the leaders of the two proposed charter schools were not returned Tuesday. Their plans propose opening and enrolling 110 children at the Danbury Prospect Charter School and 168 children at Norwalk Charter School for Excellence next school year, which would cost the state $3.1 million. When the schools reach full capacity in five years, 942 additional students would be attending charters, which will cost an additional $10.6 million in state funding. Chairman of the State Board of Education Allan Taylor said during an interview that the changes in state law clarified already existing state law. Seems to me its the same situation as it has always been, Taylor, an attorney, said of the process for charters to open in Connecticut. We can say pretty clearly what we are doing is an initial approval But whether parents who want to send their kids to charter school get that message that there is another step to go, I dont know. Regardless if these new schools open, enrollment in the states existing network of charter schools is already set to increase as they reach capacity. Charters typically open with a couple of grades at a time. This means next year, 527 additional seats will be offered if already existing schools are allowed to increase enrollment as their plans are designed - a cost of nearly $6 million to the state. If these educational plans are approved by the education board Wednesday, the decision to move them forward will rest with the next governor. Bob Stefanowski, the Republican nominee, is non-committal. If elected, Mr. Stefanowski will carefully examine that proposal and make sure its in the best educational interests of the state and, if so, he will approve it, Kendall Marr, Stefanowskis spokesman, said during an interview. There is certainly reason to believe that charters are having positive results, but he is also a product of the public schools. Ned Lamont, the Democratic nominee, is not supportive of opening more charters. I just worry about how we get them funded. I am trying to do no harm for our existing districts, our districts most in need. So let me be very careful before I promise funding to any new alternatives, Lamont said during an interview. I am focused on doing everything I can to raise [neighborhood schools] up. iShares MSCI Belgium ETF's stock was trading at $15.65 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, EWK stock has increased by 40.7% and is now trading at $22.02. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. iShares MSCI Netherlands ETF's stock was trading at $27.57 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, EWN shares have increased by 92.3% and is now trading at $53.01. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Nuveen Investments, Inc. The fund is co-managed by Nuveen Fund Advisors LLC and Nuveen Asset Management, LLC. It invests in the fixed income markets of Massachusetts, United States. The fund primarily invests in undervalued municipal securities and other related investments which are exempt from regular federal and Massachusetts income taxes. It seeks to invest in investment grade securities that are rated Baa/BBB or above by S&P, Moody's, or Fitch. The fund employs fundamental analysis with a focus on bottom-up stock picking approach to create its portfolio. It benchmarks the performance of its portfolio against the Standard & Poor's (S&P) Massachusetts Municipal Bond Index and Standard & Poor's (S&P) National Municipal Bond Index. The fund was formerly known as Nuveen Massachusetts Premium Income Municipal Fund. Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund was formed on January 12, 1993 and is domiciled in the United States. Read More iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF's stock was trading at $25.60 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, EWU stock has increased by 30.9% and is now trading at $33.51. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. iShares Latin America 40 ETF's stock was trading at $22.49 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, ILF stock has increased by 14.2% and is now trading at $25.68. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. There is not enough analysis data for Katoro Gold. 4.3 Community Rank Outperform Votes Katoro Gold has received 109 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.) Underperform Votes Katoro Gold has received 64 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.) Community Sentiment Katoro Gold has received 63.01% outperform votes from our community. MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about Katoro Gold and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe KAT will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe KAT will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days. Previous Next Tata Communications is acquiring Teleena, a Netherlands-based Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity specialist and mobile virtual network enabler (MVNE). The companys technology reduces the operational complexity and cost of mobility and IoT deployments for businesses. Teleenas solution is a key part of the Tata Communications MOVE platform, which enables enterprises and device manufacturers to capture, move and manage information worldwide through borderless, secure and scalable connectivity. The acquisition is an investment in technology and talent to complement Tata Communications growth strategy in the global mobility and IoT market. It gives the company full access to Teleenas technology portfolio, including its MVNE platform, its Operational Support System / Business Support System (OSS/BSS) solution, and the expertise of Teleenas mobility and IoT industry specialists. Teleenas customers will now transition to become Tata Communications customers, and all Teleena employees will become Tata Communications employees. The growth rate in the global mobility and IoT market is phenomenal: by 2021, enterprises spending on mobility alone is set to surpass USD 1.7 trillion, said Anthony Bartolo, Chief Product Officer, Tata Communications. Our vision is to create an environment where anything can be born connected. Providing everyone and everything in the world with seamless connectivity globally will support businesses digital transformation. The combination of the Tata Communications MOVE platform, and Teleenas technology and talent, will help us fulfil this vision, and accelerate our growth in the mobility and IoT market. Since its launch in February 2017, the Tata Communications MOVE platform has been adopted by businesses worldwide to introduce a range of innovative mobile and IoT services. These businesses include childrens smartwatch makers Omate and Doki Technologies, new mobile network virtual operators (MVNO) like Singapore-based MyRepublic, and the smart logistics company W-Locate. Im excited about this next stage on our 10-year journey, because just like Teleena, Tata Communications is fast-moving, ambitious and focused on innovation, said Kim Bybjerg, CEO of Teleena. I look forward to working with Anthony and his team to help Tata Communications customers make the most of the transformational potential of IoT and mobility, and support the companys mission to become one of the leading players in this industry. This acquisition follows Tata Communications investment in Teleena in January 2017, when the company became the single largest shareholder in Teleena with a 35% stake. Technuter.com News Service VanEck Vectors Poland ETF's stock was trading at $17.00 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, PLND stock has increased by 0.0% and is now trading at $17.00. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Migrant labour makes up twenty percent of the agricultural workforce in Northern Ireland, a new report has found. The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has released its new report Migrant Labour in NI Agriculture, which presents survey results for the agricultural sector on migrant labour. The statistics are compiled from a survey of farm businesses completed in November 2017. An estimated 1,404 non-seasonal and seasonal workers from outside the UK and Ireland were employed in agriculture in Northern Ireland. Using June Agricultural Census employment figures, the 1,404 migrant workers equate to 20 percent of the paid agricultural workforce. Horticultural farms were the most likely farm type to employ migrant labour, with approximately 70 percent of the estimated migrant labour used on these farms. Thirty-two percent of non-seasonal migrant workers present were from Bulgaria, with 28 percent from Lithuania and 16 percent from Poland. Importance of migrants The report states that almost all the responses from farm businesses with migrant labour stated that migrant labour was important to their business. When asked how their business would adapt if a future UK government placed significant restrictions on the recruitment of workers from EU countries, the most common response was reduce production (34 percent), followed by recruit more workers from the UK and Ireland (23 percent) and invest in labour saving technology (18 percent). Sixteen percent of responses indicated the farmer did not know how they would respond with a further 8 percent of responses included in the other category. Of these latter responses, around two fifths said it could lead to closure of the business. The release of the survey follows news of the Prime Minister stating that low-skilled migration will drastically fall when the UK ends EU free movement access after Brexit. Theresa May said higher-skilled migrants from around the world will be given priority, with lower-skilled immigration curbed. For the farming industry, a pilot scheme will allow businesses to hire non-EU migrant workers for a period of six months. British agri-machinery giant JCB is to auction a unique 20,000 digger for the Royal British Legion, which supports the Armed Forces. As the nation prepares to mark the Centenary of the World War I Armistice, JCB is digging deep to help the charity. The Staffordshire-based machinery giant has created a unique Lest We Forget mini-digger, with symbolic red poppy livery, which is to be auctioned to raise funds for the Royal British Legion. The 16C-1 model is worth more than 20,000 and all the proceeds from the auction will go to the charity which provides lifelong support for the Armed Forces community - serving men and women, veterans, and their families. JCB Chairman, Lord Bamford, said: JCB is immensely proud to be British and we should never forget how much we as a nation owe to the generation that fought for the freedom we enjoy today. The British Legions theme for the Centenary is Thank You and we can think of no better way of saying our own thank you than offering a JCB mini excavator to auction off for a charity which supports our brave Armed Forces. Bids can be placed online from Friday, October 5th. The winning bidder will be announced at the launch of the Staffordshire Royal British Legions Poppy Appeal at JCB World Headquarters on Friday, October 26th. Payments worth more than 241 million will begin to arrive in Scottish farmers and crofters bank accounts in the coming days. Eligible farmers will receive up to 90% of their CAP Basic and Greening 2018 payment under the national loan scheme announced earlier this summer. In total, 10,684 farmers and crofters will receive payment under the scheme, providing vital financial support following months of adverse weather conditions. Announcing the scheme, Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said farmers need to respond to the loan offer as quickly as possible. This money will provide a cash injection worth 241 million into the rural economy, directly helping those feeling the effects of increased feed and fodder prices, and the adverse weather experienced by many across the year, Mr Ewing said. I would encourage anyone who has yet to accept a loan offer to consider it carefully and respond as quickly as possible. For those farmers and crofters yet to receive a loan offer, I would like to put their minds at ease that offers are still being made once eligibility checks have been completed. He added: I am confident the majority of all eligible claimants will have received an offer no later than 31 October, and be able to receive their loan payment shortly after they accept the loan offer, demonstrating my absolute commitment to support our rural business and communities. A programme to eradicate Bovine Viral Diarrhoea in cattle has screened over 50 percent of all farms in Wales, and the campaign is now cranking up a notch to get more publicity. Gwaredu (Eradicate) BVD, the national programme to eradicate BVD from the Welsh national herd, is well ahead of target. Just one year in, over 50% of farms in Wales have been screened but now the campaign is being ramped up to get widespread adoption. Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) is a viral disease in cattle that causes immunosuppression and reproductive failure. The disease can reduce fertility, increase incidences of abortion and cause pneumonia in affected stock, creating drastic, long-lasting personal and financial effects on all affected farms. The welfare and financial consequences are significant, with an approximate cost of 4,500 per year for the average beef herd, and 15,000 for dairy herds as a result of poor fertility, reduced milk yields, low daily live weight gains, fever, diarrhoea and respiratory problems. Screening is free, and the programme also provides up to 500 for livestock farmers to work with their vet. However, this funding will run out in 2020 when testing is likely to be compulsory, so a new campaign is being launched to reach all farmers in the country and get them to act now to stop the disease spreading. 'Eradicate the disease' The 10 million three year voluntary screening programme is available to all 12,000 Welsh cattle farms, and is managed by Coleg Sir Gars Agriculture Research Centre in partnership with the Royal Veterinary College. It involves BVD screening at the same time as TB testing to provide the support so farmers can quickly identify herds infected with BVD. Support is also available to find the persistently infected (PI) animals from infected herds. John Griffiths, manager of the Agriculture Research Centre at Coleg Sir Gars Gelli Aur campus said: We are hugely encouraged by the take-up of the screening programme so far from Welsh farmers, but we are under no illusions that the next two years will be a challenge if we want to eradicate the disease, as has happened in several European countries. BVD in cattle is widespread in Wales, and the costs are high, so well be ramping up our activities to ensure farmers understand and realise the benefits of screening, and we make Wales BVD free, he said. 'Persistently infected cattle' Eradicating BVD is a priority of the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group, and is funded by the Welsh Governments Rural Development Programme. The disease remains in the national herd by the presence of persistently infected cattle. These are infected in the womb and excrete virus all their life, causing a problem to all the cattle on the farm. By testing young stock, the programme intends to identify herds that have BVD present on the farm and support these in order to remove the infected animals. Testing is carried out at the annual TB test on the farm and will require five animals between nine and 18 months to be blood sampled, and these will be tested for BVD antibodies. If there are BVD antibodies present on the farm, then finding and removing PI animals is recommended. Dr Neil Paton, Lecturer in Farm Animal Health at the Royal Veterinary College said: Tests show that more than a quarter of Welsh beef and dairy herds are infected with BVD, so we need to help livestock farmers across Wales to work with us to diagnose if their herd has been exposed to the virus, and to seek and remove any infected animals. Eight out of 10 food and drink products at new discount chain Jacks will be grown, reared or made in Britain and stores will stock a unique own brand range. Tesco has launched its new Jack's stores which seems to be targeting Aldi and Lidl - the German discounters that have secured an increasing share of the UK grocery market since they appeared on the scene. Tesco's announced that the first two Jack's stores would open on September 20 in Chatteris, Cambridgeshire and in Immingham, Lincolnshire. Over the next six months, Tesco said it would launch between 10 and 15 Jacks stores in the United Kingdom. The new stores have been named after Jack Cohen, the founder of Tesco, who was known as "slasher Jack" for his pile it high and sell it cheap approach to retailing. Starting in 1919, he built a business famed for making food available to everyone, at a time when many families simply couldnt afford the food sold in shops. The launch of Jack's will form part of the centenary celebrations of Tesco's beginnings. Sourcing British Over the last five years Aldi and Lidl have nearly doubled their market share in the UK to just over 13 per cent, unsettling the country's big four supermarkets. But Tesco - the biggest of them all at the moment - says that the new Jack's chain will aim to "bring customers great tasting food at the lowest possible prices." Jack Cohen championed value for customers and changed the face of British shopping. Hes an inspiration for all of us and that same spirit still drives Tesco now," said Tesco group chief executive Dave Lewis. Its fitting that today we mark the beginning of Tescos celebration of 100 Years of Great Value by launching a new brand, and stores bearing his name - Jacks. Great tasting food at the lowest possible prices with eight out of 10 products grown, reared or made in Britain. At same time as pushing low prices, Tesco chiefs are focusing on British sourcing for the new Jack's chain. "Jacks will proudly support Britain's food producing communities. Eight out of 10 food and drink products at Jacks will be grown, reared or made in Britain and stores will stock a unique own brand range, also named Jacks as a mark of quality and value," said the company in a statement announcing the launch. Slurry legislation changed in Scotland to cut emissions Changes to way that slurry & digestate is stored Category Select Category Apparel/Garments Textiles Fashion Technical Textiles Information Technology E-commerce Retail Corporate Association Press Release SubCategory Select Sub-Category It was a couple of days ago that the grand finale of Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 1 was held and Sabumon, one of the most loved contestants of the house, was announced as the big winner of the first edition of the much loved reality show. Meanwhile, Sabumon has already been roped in to play important roles in two upcoming Malayalam movies. The announcement regarding the same was held on the floors of the grand finale, amidst the presence of all. Popular film-maker Lijo Jose Pellissery and actor-producer Vijay Babu were present for the grand finale of Bigg Boss Malayalam and they came on stage to make the big announcement. Lijo Jose Pellissery announced that Sabumon will be seen essaying an important role in his upcoming movie Jallikkettu. At the same time, Vijay Babu also announced that Sabumon has been roped in to play a crucial role in one of the upcoming production ventures of his production banner Friday Film House. Well, the news has indeed come as a big surprise to all the fans and followers of Sabumon. As we all know, Sabumon is not new to films and apart from being a television host, he has proved his capability as an actor as well. He had played an important role in Lijo Jose Pellissery's multi-starrer movie Double Barrely, which released in 2015. He was also a part of other popular movies like Fireman, Adi Kapyare Koottamani, etc. Well, it has been close to a year since Dulquer Salmaan's previous Malayalam film released. Meanwhile, the much loved young star of Malayalam cinema has went on to etch a place for his own in the Telugu and Hindi film industries. His next Malayalam movie will be Oru Yamandan Premakatha, directed by debut film-maker BC Noufel and scripted by Vishnu Unnikrishnan and Bibin George team. Reports were doing the rounds that Dulquer Salmaan might be seen playing the lead role in the next directorial venture of Mahesh Narayanan as well. Now, it seems like all those reports were true and one of the recent pictures that surfaced on social media suggest the same. Most recently, popular music director Gopi Sunder took to his official Facebook page to send out a selfie featuring himself, director Mahesh Narayanan and cinematographer Sanu John Varghese. The photo has the caption "Sanu, Alex , mahesh narayanan DQ project discussion ". Interestingly, director Mahesh Narayanan, Sanu Varghese and Gopi Sunder had previously teamed up for the movie Take Off, which had hit the theatres in the year 2017. Well, nothing much has been revealed about this much awaited movie. It seems like this will be Dulquer Salmaan's next Malayalam movie after Oru Yamandan Premakatha. Meanwhile, the actor' next big release is expected to be the Tamil movie Kannum Kannum Kollaiyadithaal. Novartis International AG / Novartis licenses three novel anti-infective programs to Boston Pharmaceuticals . Processed and transmitted by West Corporation. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Clinical and pre-clinical stage programs focused on addressing growing need for new treatments against drug resistant Gram-negative bacteria Agreement is part of Novartis strategy to partner with like-minded innovators to further develop new medicines to address global health challenges Research and development for new medicines to treat tropical diseases continues through the Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases Basel, Switzerland, October 3, 2018- Novartis announced today that it has entered into a licensing and equity agreement with Boston Pharmaceuticals for the development of three novel anti-infective drug candidates that are part of the Novartis Infectious Diseases portfolio, which have the potential to address the need for new agents to treat antibiotic resistant Gram-negative infections. Antibiotic resistance is widely recognized as a major public health threat and innovative candidates to combat drug resistant bacteria remain a critical unmet need. Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) have identified CRE and drug resistant Pseudomonads as serious threats that pose significant risk to human health. "The need for new antibiotics that address drug resistant bacteria is clear and we are pleased to find a partner in Boston Pharmaceuticals who will dedicate the appropriate expertise and resources for the further development and commercialization of these programs," said Jay Bradner, M.D., President of the Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research. "Drug discovery and development is a team sport and this agreement is part of our strategy to partner with like -minded innovators outside of our walls to further develop new innovative medicines focused on addressing global health challenges." Under the terms of the agreement, Boston Pharmaceuticals acquired worldwide rights to two complementary candidates targeting carbapenem-resistant enterobacteriaceae (CRE) and one candidate targeting Pseudomonas infections. Novartis will receive an upfront payment and is entitled to royalties and milestone payments for successfully commercialized medicines. In addition, Novartis will receive an equity stake in two new companies formed together with Boston Pharmaceuticals to further develop and commercialize these programs. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The programs included in this agreement include: LYS228 is a potential best-in-class monobactam which has entered clinical development and which has demonstrated activity against CRE with resistance caused by serine beta-lactamases (SBLs) and/or metallo beta-lactamases (MBLs); IID572 is a novel beta-lactamase inhibitor that may be used in combination with LYS228 or other beta-lactam antibiotics to expand their use against difficult-to-treat infections caused by a broader spectrum of CRE; and MAK181 is an oral, first-in-class LpxC inhibitor for Pseudomonas infections. "The acquisition of these three novel anti-infective candidates further demonstrates our commitment to addressing unmet medical needs in order to benefit patients," said Robert Armstrong, Ph.D., C.E.O. of Boston Pharmaceuticals. "Novartis has done a tremendous job advancing new solutions to infections caused by drug resistant Gram-negative pathogens and developing these innovative candidates with best-in-class or first-in-class potential. We look forward to building on this quality research as we advance these candidates." Novartis continues to discover and develop new medicines to treat tropical diseases through research at the Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases (NITD). In addition, earlier this year the company announced a five-year $100 million commitment to advance the Novartis malaria pipeline through 2023 and to complete a comprehensive global clinical trial program for two novel antimalarial drug candidates KAF156 and KAE609. Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by words such as "potential," "can," "will," "plan," "expect," "anticipate," "look forward," "believe," "committed," "investigational," "pipeline," "launch," "strategy," or similar terms, or by express or implied discussions regarding potential marketing approvals, new indications or labeling for the investigational or approved products described in this press release, or regarding potential future revenues from such products or the licensing and equity agreement with Boston Pharmaceuticals. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on our current beliefs and expectations regarding future events, and are subject to significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. There can be no guarantee that the investigational or approved products described in this press release will be submitted or approved for sale or for any additional indications or labeling in any market, or at any particular time. Neither can there be any guarantee that the licensing and equity agreement with Boston Pharmaceuticals will achieve any or all of its intended goals and objectives, or be commercially successful. Nor can there be any guarantee that the investigational or approved products described in this press release will be commercially successful in the future. In particular, our expectations regarding such products and the licensing and equity agreement with Boston Pharmaceuticals could be affected by, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including clinical trial results and additional analysis of existing clinical data; regulatory actions or delays or government regulation generally; global trends toward health care cost containment, including government, payor and general public pricing and reimbursement pressures; our ability to obtain or maintain proprietary intellectual property protection; the particular prescribing preferences of physicians and patients; general political and economic conditions; safety, quality or manufacturing issues; potential or actual data security and data privacy breaches, or disruptions of our information technology systems, and other risks and factors referred to in Novartis AG's current Form 20-F on file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Novartis is providing the information in this press release as of this date and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. About Novartis Novartis is reimagining medicine to improve and extend people's lives. As a leading global medicines company, we use innovative science and digital technologies to create transformative treatments in areas of great medical need. In our quest to find new medicines, we consistently rank among the world's top companies investing in research and development. Novartis products reach nearly 1 billion people globally and we are finding innovative ways to expand access to our latest treatments. About 125,000 people of more than 140 nationalities work at Novartis around the world. Find out more at www.novartis.com (http://www.novartis.com). Novartis is on Twitter. Sign up to follow @Novartis at http://twitter.com/novartis (http://twitter.com/novartis) For Novartis multimedia content, please visit www.novartis.com/news/media-library (http://www.novartis.com/news/media-library) For questions about the site or required registration, please contact media.relations@novartis.com (mailto:media.relations@novartis.com) # # # Novartis Media Relations Central media line: +41 61 324 2200 E-mail: media.relations@novartis.com (mailto:media.relations@novartis.com) Eric Althoff Novartis Global Media Relations +41 61 324 7999 (direct) +41 79 593 4202 (mobile) eric.althoff@novartis.com (mailto:eric.althoff@novartis.com) Kara Cournoyer Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research +1 617 871 3208 (direct) +1 617 710 5447 (mobile) kara.cournoyer@novartis.com (mailto:kara.cournoyer@novartis.com) Novartis Investor Relations Central investor relations line: +41 61 324 7944 E-mail: investor.relations@novartis.com (mailto:investor.relations@novartis.com) Central North America Samir Shah +41 61 324 7944 Richard Pulik +1 212 830 2448 Pierre-Michel Bringer +41 61 324 1065 Cory Twining +1 212 830 2417 Thomas Hungerbuehler +41 61 324 8425 Isabella Zinck +41 61 324 7188 Media release (PDF) (http://hugin.info/134323/R/2219013/867858.pdf) Tissue Phenomics approach accelerates clinical trial assay development & patient profiling MUNICH, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Definiens, the Tissue Phenomics company, has announced the first-ever Definiens Insights Forum to be held at their headquarters in Munich, Germany on October 17, 2018. While space is limited, registration for the free event is open to industry professionals. "This is a very unique opportunity to actively engage with different pharma companies and other experts on their experience in using Tissue Phenomics solutions from Definiens for immuno-oncology, biomarker development and patient profiling," said Ralf Huss, Chief Medical Officer at Definiens. Dr. Huss is one of several experts that will present immuno-oncology (IO) testing experiences at the Forum. Speakers from MedImmune, Boehringer-Ingelheim, and Covance/LabCorp will also share their experiences and best practices. The timing of this event coincides with the European Society for Molecular Oncology (ESMO) Annual Congress, where global pharmaceutical leaders will meet from October 18-20 to present advances in clinical cancer treatments. Hosted in Definiens' hometown of Munich, ESMO 2018 is anticipated to draw almost 24,000 of the top oncologists and clinical scientists from around the world. One of the major draws at ESMO this year is immuno-oncology, which in recent years has emerged as one of the most promising areas in oncology treatment. Definiens provides IO profiling and digital pathology services that are based largely on the Tissue Phenomics approach. The company offers these services to pharmaceutical companies and employs staff pathologists, translational scientists, bioinformatics, and an extensive team of expert service consultants. "The immuno-oncology field is moving very fast," said Dr. Huss. "And current IO testing platforms are limited in their ability to quickly translate biomarker studies into insights for drug makers. The ability to quickly find actionable IO insights and then standardize and scale testing for large-scale patient screening can radically improve the outcome of IO clinical trials. We're excited to be able to share the future offerings and technology advancement for IO profiling." Learn more about the Definiens Insights Forum. About Definiens We improve patient lives by unlocking the tissue phenome. In oncology, therapeutic strategies have shifted from a direct assault on cancer cells to recruiting the immune system for that purpose. Our mission is to accelerate breakthroughs in immuno-oncology by helping pharmaceutical researchers better leverage tissue-based information through Definiens Tissue Phenomics technology. Our expertise accelerates and deepens understanding of disease biology and immune system mechanisms and allows to bring multi-omics data into a cancer-relevant context, which facilitates the translation of new insights into novel therapies and treatment strategies. Our vision is to create unique and actionable patient profiles through harmonized biomarkers for an individualized standard of care, where patients experience fewer side effects and live longer. Definiens' proven technology has been used in thousands of projects, yielding results that have accelerated drug development and produced over 1000 peer-reviewed publications. Definiens is a member of the AstraZeneca group providing products and services to companies across the life sciences sector, including MedImmune, the global biologics research and development arm of AstraZeneca. Media Contact: Adrian Arechiga; aarechiga@definiens.com -- Lore Leitner Joins the WSGR's London Office -- PALO ALTO, California, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, the premier provider of legal services to technology, life sciences, and growth enterprises worldwide, announced today that Lore Leitner has joined the firm as Of Counsel in the London office. Leitner's practice will focus on privacy and cybersecurity. For nearly a decade, Leitner has advised clients on data protection and privacy, as well as cybersecurity and intellectual property-related issues. For example, she has advised clients on the design and implementation of data protection compliance programs, including those driven by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). She has also advised companies on data privacy in developing proactive business strategies that involve large-scale data use, regulatory investigations, and damage mitigation tactics related to cyber intrusions or data breaches. Leitner also has substantial expertise in M&A and capital markets transactions, assisting deal teams by advising on privacy, data protection, and other deal-related requirements. Prior to joining WSGR, Leitner was a senior associate for Latham & Watkins in its London office where her practice focused on data protection; cybersecurity; and technology, media, and telecommunications law. She was acting interim global data protection officer at the firm from 2014 to 2015. Before joining Latham & Watkins, she practiced as an associate in the Brussels office of Stibbe, where she qualified in 2009, and she was an associate in the London office of Pinsent Masons. "Lore has been practicing in globally important business centers, like London and Brussels, to build her expanse of privacy and data protection expertise that includes advisory matters, regulatory investigations, incident responses, and transactional work," said Cedric Burton, a partner based in WSGR's Brussels office who is co-leader of the firm's privacy and data protection practice and leads the European privacy practice. "Lore is a perfect fit for our leading practice. She will help us offer seamless practical advice to our clients globally thanks to her expertise in areas of strategic importance. We're delighted to welcome her to the firm, and excited by the expansion of our privacy practice to the UK." Leitner earned her J.D. from the University of Antwerp, Belgium, in 2008, where she graduated magna cum laude. She received her LL.M. from King's College London (KCL) at University of London, UK, in 2009. She speaks English, Dutch, French, and German. "Lore's range and types of expertise cover areas that are important to the commercial and business interests of technology and life sciences companies in London and around the UK," said Daniel Glazer, a WSGR partner who leads the firm's London office and heads its US expansion practice. "We are very pleased to welcome Lore to our firm's newest office." About Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati For more than 50 years, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati has offered a broad range of services and legal disciplines focused on serving the principal challenges faced by the management and boards of directors of business enterprises. The firm is nationally recognized as a leader in the fields of corporate governance and finance, mergers and acquisitions, private equity, securities litigation, employment law, intellectual property, and antitrust, among many other areas of law. With deep roots in Silicon Valley, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati has offices in Austin; Beijing; Boston; Brussels; Hong Kong; London; Los Angeles; New York; Palo Alto; San Diego; San Francisco; Seattle; Shanghai; Washington, D.C.; and Wilmington, DE. For more information, please visit www.wsgr.com. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/138117/wilson_sonsini_goodrich_and_rosati_logo.jpg TALLINN, Estonia, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- DXCASH Token Event - Rewarding their Community DX.Exchange announces the establishment of their digital coin, DXCASH. For the launch of the new cryptocurrency, along with the anticipated PSP, EU regulated crypto exchange, the team will start a campaign (DXCASH Token Event) which has allocated 1.8 million DXCASH tokens (worth $2.7M) to be delivered directly into the wallets of those who have completed the registration process. Each trader can receive up to 10 DXCASH tokens, for completing registration and then participating in extra dynamic and social engagements and earn more tokens. "Our DXCASH Token Event is a unique opportunity for our community to become an active supporter of our Exchange, participating in a live social engaging competition that will take us all the way through the launch of our live platform immediately after the beta completion", says Amedeo Moscato, COO of DX.Exchange. With 500,000 pre-registered users, DX.Exchange has attracted much attention due to their marketable business model, of no trading fees. With a membership monthly fee, of 10EUR, the trader can purchase cryptocurrencies with FIAT, trade cryptocurrencies, and convert Crypto back to FIAT. The DXCASH Token Event is a community driven campaign - the company will provide the traders with the tokens directly after the exchange will go live with the trading platform. The campaign is fun and engaging, and aims to further strengthen the community, by encouraging activity and allowing registered users to earn for their assistance. They can reach 'celebrity status', by completing several challenges, earn tokens by referring a friend or promoting DX.EXCHANGE in social networks. "From the earliest stages of development, we've had the trader experience at the forefront of our vision," says Daniel Skowronski, Co-Founder & CEO of DX.Exchange. "We're very excited about the launching of our coin, and our DXCASH Token Event is our way of demonstrating not just our appreciation, but also to reward our loyal community." About DX.EXCHANGE DX.Exchange is a complete Crypto community and market place licensed by Estonian Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). DX.Exchange (Twitter: @DxDotExchange) is committed to providing a transparent and ethical exchange between interested parties, in a P2P environment, with no trading fees. Trader funds and personal data are protected with the most advanced encryption software, as well as the most vigorous cyber security solutions available today. (Follow us on https://t.me/DxDotExchange) Contact: Daniel Skowronski, CEO, press@dx.exchange Press release NNIT and PFA extend and expand collaboration with focus on agility and innovation NNIT extends nine years of collaboration with Denmark's largest pension company and signs new contract about digital transformation for approximately half a billion Danish Krone. Copenhagen, October 3, 2018 - NNIT A/S, a leading provider of IT services and consultancy, announces that it has signed an extension of its agreement with PFA, the largest commercial pension company in Denmark with more than DKK 500 billion under management and 1.2 million customers. Over the next five years, NNIT A/S will continue to deliver global IT infrastructure and operations as well as consultancy to PFA and thus provide the digital services and infrastructure that enable PFA to cost-efficiently strengthen its customer service and supports the company's agile transformation. The agreement marks the continuation of a nine-year-long collaboration, which was initiated in March 2009. The estimated total value of the agreement amounts to approximately half a billion DKK. Furthermore, the renewed agreement will include application management and a stronger focus on agile development and DevOps (https://www.nnit.com/Business-Solutions/devops) to help the organization's continuous development and delivery of competitive services. NNIT will assume 16 employees from PFA, who will be welcomed in NNIT's headquarter offices in Soeborg by approximately 1,600 colleagues there and more than 3,100 colleagues globally. Senior Vice President at NNIT Jacob Hahn Michelsen says about the agreement: "Entering this third contract period, we look forward to honor PFA's high expectations to IT infrastructure and services that support their digital transformation. We welcome 16 new employees to the team who enter a very exciting collaboration with focus on agile development." Jon Johnsen, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Management member, PFA, is also looking forward to the continued collaboration and says: "We are happy to continue our close collaboration with NNIT and develop our partnership further in order to create strong IT solutions for the future PFA. The agreement is a central element in PFA's agile and innovative transformation, which will secure even better client experiences and higher effectiveness in all of our digital processes." The agreement is effective as of January 1 2019 and runs until end 2023, replacing the existing agreement. Transition and replacement of employees will take place during October 2018. Read more about the collaboration here. (https://www.nnit.com/CustomerCases/Pages/pfa-relation.aspx) Further information: Helga Heyn, NNIT Communications, +45 30 77 81 41, hhey@nnit.com (mailto:hhey@nnit.com) Kristian Lund Pedersen, Chief Press Officer, PFA, +45 61 22 22 31, klp@pfa.dk (mailto:klp@pfa.dk) About NNIT NNIT A/S is one of Denmark's leading IT service providers and consultancies. NNIT A/S offers a wide range of IT services and solutions to its customers, primarily in the life sciences sector in Denmark and internationally and to customers in the public, enterprise and finance sectors in Denmark. NNIT A/S has more than 3,100 employees. For more information please visit www.nnit.com (http://www.nnit.com/) About PFA https://english.pfa.dk/about-pfa/ (https://english.pfa.dk/about-pfa/) 20181003 PFA EN (http://hugin.info/163771/R/2219044/867880.pdf) This announcement is distributed by West Corporation on behalf of West Corporation clients. The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein. Source: NNIT A/S via Globenewswire LONDON, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- With Cyber Business Growth, Picus Security aims to build a UK channel and sales pipeline for their Continuous Security Validation software delivering "automated cyber-threat simulation and mitigation". Picus Security (Picus), a leader in Breach and Attack Simulation, today announces its exclusive UK partnership with trusted advisors, Cyber Business Growth (CBG), to provide resource and consultancy to grow sales and channel partnerships. This strategic affiliation will enable Picus to establish a strong position in the UK and Ireland. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/753760/Cyber_Business_Growth_Logo.jpg ) Picus offers "Continuous Security Validation" as the most realistic approach for improving enterprise cyber-resilience. Picus assessments, independent of any vendor or technology, measures the effectiveness of security defenses by continuously using emerging threat samples in production environments, providing the required practical insight and mitigation to better manage these complex technologies without any impact on running systems. "Enterprises need to track new threats and react to them in a timely manner but fast response to emerging threats is impossible without efficient Security Operations," Adds Ottavio Camponeschi, World Wide Sales, Picus Security "Picus has developed an Agile SecOps methodology to help enterprises beat threats systematically and in a timely manner so time is not lost firefighting and to ensure resilience. We are looking forward to working with the knowledgeable team at CBG to take the Picus offering to market." "We are excited to launch this new approach of bringing a vendor to market and to be representing Picus in the UK and Ireland to offer Continuous Security Validation addressing gaps in current Cyber Security portfolios," comments Jamie Murphy, CEO and Founder, CBG. "We are confident that we'll be able to achieve our goals and accelerate growth by building great relationships with the partner community and awareness within enterprise organisations." About Cyber Business Growth: Cyber Business Growth's (CBG) provides organisations with business acceleration and cyber services from strategy to revenue, and guidance through experience and an exclusive network of relationships from highly skilled consultants with 120+ years of combined expertise. For more information, visit http://www.cyberbusinessgrowth.com About Picus Security Inc: Founded in 2013, Picus is backed by ACT-VC, Social Capital and ScaleX Ventures, having sales headquarter in San Francisco, USA and office in Ankara, TR. Picus is pioneering the Continuous Security Validation to help enterprises enhance their security posture by simulating attacks and providing fast mitigation options for existing controls. The company has been serving the largest banks, retail companies, government agencies and military organizations across the globe. Picus is also shortlisted by Gartner in several reports including the Breach and Attack Simulation (BAS) Market Report. For more information visit http://www.picussecurity.com, or reach out to us at info@picussecurity.com Contacts: Jessica Hayward Marketing m. +44(0)7862-241164 e. Jessica.hayward@cyberbusinessgrowth.com PORTLAND, Oregon, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Conventional NPWT devices will remain the preferred choice of treatment among medical practitioners and would continue to garner the highest market share in the global NPWT devices market through 2025 owing to their application in the treatment of multiple wound categories Allied Market Research published a report, titled, Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) Devices Market by Product (Single-use NPWT Device and Conventional NPWT Device), Wound Type (Chronic Wound and Acute Wound), and End User (Hospital & Clinic, Ambulatory Surgical Center, and Home Care Setting): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2017-2025. The report offers a detailed analysis of the key investment pockets, market share & forecast, drivers & opportunities, and business performances of key players. According to the report, the global negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) devices market garnered $2.2 billion in 2017, and is expected to reach $2.9 billion by 2025 at a CAGR of 3.5% from 2018 to 2025. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg ( cretaed - 01/02/2018) ) Increase in incidence of chronic diseases such as obesity & diabetes, upsurge in number of casualties caused by accidents & trauma, and increase in awareness about NPWT devices are the key factors responsible for boosting the growth of the global NPWT devices market. Moreover, rise in geriatric population and technological advancements for developing cost-effective devices supplement the growth of the industry. However, overlooked complications of NPWT such as injuries occurring from infections and dearth of trained healthcare professionals hinder the growth of the market. On the other hand, growing focus on advancements in treatment protocols and potential in market potential in untapped emerging countries would present new opportunities in the market. Request Sample Report at:https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/434 Conventional NPWT devices to prevail The report segments the market based on product type into single-use NPWT device and conventional NPWT devices. The latter segment covered three-fourth share of the market in 2017 and is projected to maintain its lion's share by 2025. In terms of growth rate, the former segment is estimated to grow rapidly, registering a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period. Chronic wound segment to be lucrative by 2025 The wound types analyzed in the study are chronic wounds and acute wounds. The chronic wound segment contributed nearly two-thirds share of the total market in 2017 and would continue to grow at the fastest CAGR of 3.7%, making it a lucrative area for industry stakeholders. Hospitals & clinics to contribute nearly half of market share The end users discussed in the report include hospitals & clinics, ambulatory surgery centers (ASC), and home care settings. The hospitals & clinics segment contributed nearly half of the total market share in 2017, and is expected to maintain its position by the end of study period. However, home care settings will be the fastest growing segment, registering a CAGR of 5.3% from 2018 to 2025. For Purchase Enquiry:https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/434 North America Dominant, Asia-Pacific Fastest-Growing Geographically, the report analyzes the market into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America, Middle East and Africa (LAMEA). North America region contributed more than one-third share of the total market in 2017, and is expected to maintain its position throughout the forecast period. However, Asia-Pacific region would become the fastest growing region, registering a CAGR of 4.8% from 2018 to 2025. Frontrunners of the global industry The market players analyzed in the study include Acelity L.P., Inc., ConvaTec Group plc, Smith & Nephew plc, Cardinal Health, Molnlycke Health Care AB, Devon International Group (Devon Medical Products), Medela AG, Talley Group Ltd., ATMOS MedizinTechnik GmbH & Co. KG, and DeRoyal Industries, Inc. Furthermore, the report includes strategies, such as partnerships, new product launches, mergers & acquisitions, collaborations, and others, which have been adopted by market players to gain stronghold in the industry. Access KNOWLEDGE TREE (Premium on-demand, subscription-based pricing model) at:https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/knowledgetree Knowledge tree is a cloud-based intelligence platform that offers more than 2,000 selective, off-the-shelf reports on niche markets to enable our clients gain deep insights on the latest trends, dynamic technologies, and emerging application areas. Similar Reports: Sports Medicine Devices Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2017 - 2025 Wound Irrigation System Sales (WISS) - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2017 - 2023 About Us Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact: David Correa 5933 NE Win Sivers Drive #205, Portland, OR 97220 United States USA/Canada (Toll Free): +1-800-792-5285, +1-503-894-6022, +1-503-446-1141 UK: +44-845-528-1300 Hong Kong: +852-301-84916 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1(855)550-5975 help@alliedmarketresearch.com Web: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. STOCK EXCHANGE ANNOUNCEMENT For Immediate Release3 October 2018 Invesco Markets III PLC Re: Appointment of Director The Directors of Invesco Markets III plc (the "Company") wish to announce the appointment of Anne-Marie King as a Non Executive Director of the Company effective 27 September 2018. Anne-Marie King Anne-Marie King is director of Cross Border Fund Governance at Invesco Global Asset Management DAC, as well as one of the Conducting Officers of Invesco Management SA. As director of Cross Border Fund Governance, Anne-Marie is responsible for assisting and supporting the cross-border fund Boards and the related Luxembourg and Irish management companies in their oversight of the management and operations of the funds. The funds include Irish UCITS, Irish Exchange Traded Funds, Irish Money Market Funds and Luxembourg SICAVs and AIFs. She is also a member of the Invesco Global Asset Management DAC Board of Directors. Anne-Marie joined Invesco (then known as Investment Fund Administrators Limited, a fully owned subsidiary of GT Asset Management Ireland Limited) in September 1994, as a member of the Client Services department. Since then Anne-Marie has undertaken a number of varied and progressive roles within Invesco including: Finance, Investment Administration, Business Development and Transfer Agency. Before assuming her current position in 2013, Anne-Marie was Head of Cross Border Transfer Agency with full responsibility for transfer agency operational, control and oversight functions and the related project and product implementation. She graduated from Dublin Business School in 1998 and is a fellow of the Chartered Association of Certified Accountants. Anne-Marie King has never: LLANTRISANT, Wales, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Purolite Ltd., a leading manufacturer and distributor of agarose resins to the biopharmaceutical industry, today announces the opening of a state-of-the-art agarose resin manufacturing facility. Capable of producing 100,000L annually - equating to 30% of current global demand - it is predicted that the South Wales-based facility will promote increased resin innovation within the field, reducing the end-user cost of biologics and boosting local supply chains by up to 120 million. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/753768/Purolite_Life_Sciences_Logo.jpg ) (Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/753769/Purolite_New_Plant_Opening.jpg ) The facility was officially opened on September 27th by the Rt Hon Carwyn Jones AM, First Minister of Wales, and Steve Bates, Chief Executive Officer of the BioIndustry Association. Both gentleman gave speeches to commemorate the opening, talking on Purolite's impact on the Biotechnology sector, and contributions to Welsh economy through continuous manufacturing expansion and job creation. Welsh Government support of 575,000 was crucial in securing the project for Wales, due to strong competition from Purolite's existing facilities in USA, China and Romania, and the facility has, to date, created and safeguarded 60 jobs in South Wales. First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, said, "Investment in high-value manufacturing facilities is pushing Wales to the fore in the ever-growing Life Sciences sector. Welsh Government funding has enabled Purolite to expand its work and its workforce with a new manufacturing facility here in Llantrisant - 35 years after the company first established a base in Wales. I thank Purolite's talented employees for a fascinating behind-the-scenes insight into the new facility and for showing how biotechnology is enhancing life-saving medicines." BIA CEO Steve Bates commented: "It was an honour to be at the opening of the new Purolite Life Sciences facility and to see this important new biotech manufacturing centre. Purolite have shown a commitment to the UK biotech ecosystem and the facility will help to expand the UK's ability to manufacture cutting edge medicines." Agarose resins are an integral technology used by pharmaceutical developers in the manufacture of modern medicines targeting the treatment of cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and a variety of age-related diseases. The new manufacturing facility will enable dual-sourcing of agarose resins to secure a consistent supply. Spread over 2400 sq. m, the purpose-built facility in Llantrisant, South Wales, UK, leverages Purolite's manufacturing knowledge to optimise for lower energy, less raw material consumption and more time efficient processes. "The decision to open a new facility was driven by the expected growth in the chromatography resin market in the coming years," said Chris Major, Global Sales & Marketing Director for Agarose Life Sciences at Purolite Corporation, "however, we have seen an increasing demand from the industry for alternative suppliers of agarose chromatography resins. Before Purolite entered the market place several years ago, there was only one provider of agarose Protein A resins, with close to 95% market share. Today, Purolite is the only credible alternative." NOTES TO EDITORS About Purolite Life Sciences Started in 2012, Purolite Life Sciences supports R&D and production-scale applications in pharmaceuticals, food production, fine chemical and other markets. Our products include APIs, blood purification polymers, enzyme carriers, immobilized enzymes and chromatographic resins designed for purity, reproducibility, scalability and improved outcomes for scientists and biomanufacturers. Additional information is available at http://www.purolitelifesciences.com Follow us on Twitter: @PuroliteLifeSci Follow us on LinkedIn: Purolite Life Sciences Contact: Purolite Life Sciences N: Sam Beales (Creative Marketing Manager) E: sam.beales@purolite.com T: +44(0)144-322-9334 IRW-PRESS: Cypress Development Corp.: Bohrungen von Cypress Development beim Lithiumprojekt Clayton Valley in Nevada Bohrungen von Cypress Development beim Lithiumprojekt Clayton Valley in Nevada 7. Februar 2019 - Vancouver (British Columbia). Cypress Development Corp. (TSX-V: CYP, OTCQB: CYDVF, Frankfurt: C1Z1) (Cypress oder das Unternehmen) freut sich bekannt zu geben, dass die Mobilisierung fur die Bohrungen beim unternehmenseigenen Lithiumprojekt Clayton Valley im Gange ist. Das aktuelle Bohrprogramm ist ein wichtiger Bestandteil der Datenerfassung fur die laufende vorlaufige Machbarkeitsstudie (Pre-Feasibility Study, die PFS) und wird auf einen Bereich zwischen den fruheren Bohrlochern GCH-06, DCH-04 und DCH-05 fokussiert sein (siehe Standortkarte der Bohrlocher). Die primaren Ziele sind die Hochstufung und Umwandlung von Ressourcen zu Reserven bei der Erstellung des PFS-Minenplans sowie die Beschaffung von Material fur weitere metallurgische Erprobungen. Das sekundare Ziel ist die Gewinnung geotechnischer Daten und weiterer Informationen uber die Lithologie, die Mineralisierung und Tonarten. Lithiumprojekt Clayton Valley - Standortkarte der Bohrlocher 2019: https://cypressdevelopmentcorp.com/site/assets/files/3640/cvlp-drill ing-map-a.jpg Es ist davon auszugehen, dass die Bohrungen lithiumhaltige Einheiten von der Nahe der Oberflache bis in Tiefen von uber 100 Metern durchschneiden werden. Die tatsachlichen Tiefen variieren je nach Bohrbedingungen und lithologischen Kontakten. Die primaren Ziele im Bohrgebiet sind die Einheiten Upper Olive und Main Blue Mudstone. Die Lithiumwerte, die in nahe gelegenen Bohrlochern durchschnitten wurden, sind relativ hoher, wie in GCH-06 zu sehen ist, wo die Lithiumwerte bis zu 1.609 Teile pro Million (ppm) betragen. Das Bohrprogramm wird voraussichtlich 500 bis 800 Meter Kern ergeben. Die Bohrungen werden je nach Witterungsbedingungen voraussichtlich im Marz abgeschlossen werden. BohrlochLithologie Von (m)Bis Lange Li (m) (m) (ppm) DCH-04 Upper Olive Md1,5 28,7 27,2 1060 stn DCH-04 Main Blue Mdst28,7 51,2 22,5 1187 n DCH-04 Lower Olive Md51,2 60,3 9,1 817 stn DCH-04 Hartboden 60,3 72,5 12,2 945 DCH-05 Upper Olive Mu8,5 23,5 14,9 894 dstn DCH-05 Main Blue Mdst23,5 48,2 24,7 1206 n DCH-05 Lower Olive Md48,2 75,6 27,4 1187 stn DCH-05 Hartboden 75,6 79,9 4,3 659 GCH-06 Upper Olive Md3 29,9 26,8 1145 stn GCH-06 Main Blue Mdst29,9 72,5 42,7 1309 n GCH-06 Lower Olive Md72,5 100 27,4 885 stn Daniel Kalmbach, CPG, ist der qualifizierte Sachverstandige im Sinne von National Instrument 43-101 und hat die technischen Informationen in dieser Pressemeldung genehmigt. Uber Cypress Development Corp.: Cypress Development Corp. ist ein borsennotiertes Explorationsunternehmen, dessen Hauptaugenmerk auf die Erschlieung des zu 100 Prozent unternehmenseigenen Lithiumprojekts Clayton Valley in Nevada gerichtet ist. Die Exploration und die Erschlieung durch Cypress fuhrten zur Entdeckung einer erstklassigen Ressource mit lithiumhaltigem Tongestein neben der Mine Silver Peak von Albemarle, dem einzigem Lithiumsolebetrieb Nordamerikas. Cypress Development Corp. verfugt uber rund 72,5 Millionen ausgegebene und ausstehende Aktien. Um mehr uber Cypress Development Corp. (TSX-V: CYP) zu erfahren, besuchen Sie bitte unsere Website auf www.cypressdevelopmentcorp.com. CYPRESS DEVELOPMENT CORP. Dr. Bill Willoughby WILLIAM WILLOUGHBY, PhD., PE Chief Executive Officer Fur nahere Informationen wenden Sie sich bitte an mich bzw. an: Don Myers Cypress Development Corp. Director, Corporate Communications Tel: 604-639-3851 Tel: 800-567-8181 (gebuhrenfrei) Fax: 604-687-3119 E-Mail: info@cypressdevelopmentcorp.com DIE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE UND DEREN REGULIERUNGSORGANE UBERNEHMEN KEINERLEI VERANTWORTUNG FUR DIE ANGEMESSENHEIT ODER GENAUIGKEIT DES INHALTS DIESER MELDUNG. Diese Pressemeldung enthalt gewisse Aussagen, die als zukunftsgerichtete Aussagen gelten. Samtliche in dieser Pressemitteilung enthaltenen Aussagen - mit Ausnahme von historischen Fakten -, die sich auf die vom Unternehmen erwarteten Ereignisse oder Entwicklungen beziehen, gelten als zukunftsgerichtete Aussagen. Obwohl die Firmenfuhrung annimmt, dass die in solchen zukunftsgerichteten Aussagen zum Ausdruck gebrachten Erwartungen auf realistischen Annahmen basieren, lassen solche Aussagen keine Ruckschlusse auf die zukunftige Performance zu und die tatsachlichen Ergebnisse oder Entwicklungen konnen wesentlich von jenen der zukunftsgerichteten Aussagen abweichen. Das Unternehmen ist nicht verpflichtet, im Falle einer Anderung der Prognosen, Schatzungen oder Sichtweisen des Managements bzw. anderweitiger Faktoren eine Berichtigung der zukunftsgerichteten Aussagen durchzufuhren. Zu den Faktoren, die dazu fuhren konnten, dass sich die tatsachlichen Ergebnisse erheblich von jenen in den zukunftsgerichteten Aussagen unterscheiden, zahlen unter anderem die Marktpreise, die erfolgreiche Exploration und Erschlieung, die dauerhafte Verfugbarkeit von Kapital und Finanzmittel und die allgemeine Wirtschafts-, Markt- oder Geschaftslage. Weitere Informationen entnehmen Sie bitte der offentlichen Berichterstattung des Unternehmens auf www.sedar.com. Die Ausgangssprache (in der Regel Englisch), in der der Originaltext veroffentlicht wird, ist die offizielle, autorisierte und rechtsgultige Version. Diese Ubersetzung wird zur besseren Verstandigung mitgeliefert. Die deutschsprachige Fassung kann gekurzt oder zusammengefasst sein. Es wird keine Verantwortung oder Haftung fur den Inhalt, die Richtigkeit, die Angemessenheit oder die Genauigkeit dieser Ubersetzung ubernommen. Aus Sicht des Ubersetzers stellt die Meldung keine Kauf- oder Verkaufsempfehlung dar! Bitte beachten Sie die englische Originalmeldung auf www.sedar.com, www.sec.gov, www.asx.com.au/ oder auf der Firmenwebsite! Die englische Originalmeldung finden Sie unter folgendem Link: https://www.irw-press.at/press_html.aspx?messageID=45830 Die ubersetzte Meldung finden Sie unter folgendem Link: https://www.irw-press.at/press_html.aspx?messageID=45830&tr=1 NEWSLETTER REGISTRIERUNG: Aktuelle Pressemeldungen dieses Unternehmens direkt in Ihr Postfach: http://www.irw-press.com/alert_subscription.php?lang=de&isin=CA23274 92005 Mitteilung ubermittelt durch IRW-Press.com. Fur den Inhalt ist der Aussender verantwortlich. Kostenloser Abdruck mit Quellenangabe erlaubt. ISIN CA2327492005 AXC0232 2019-02-07/14:03 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2018) -eXeBlock Technology Corp. (CSE: XBLK) ('eXeBlock' or the 'Company') is pleased to announce the development of a new Blockchain platform "eXechain". The platform is designed to support and run Solidity (Ethereum) smart contracts at 1000 times faster than the Ethereum based blockchain platform and will also support WASM (EOS) smart contracts. "Developers will be able to develop DApps more efficiently and at lower costs using eXechain. This will create a scalable "execution" path to mass markets by supporting current Ethereum and EOS blockchains in earlier stages of development. eXeBlock will be releasing a white paper and MVP describing the features of the new blockchain in the coming weeks," said Jamie Davison, President and CEO, eXeBlock Technology Corp. eXechain will incorporate sidechain technology that will enable native Bitcoin owners to transact on the platform. This will open up new possibilities for high value smart contracts.The addition of an Ethereum sidechain will also enable all tokens that currently reside in ETH to transact over eXechain. eXechain will incorporate an advanced consensus mechanism called Gamified Proof of Stake for greater security and better incentives for network participants. More features and technology insights will be presented in a webinar later this month, details to be posted on the company's website and via social media. "The eXeBlock team has been working hard to create a Blockchain platform that will enable scalable and executable DApps with cross chain capabilities. We're excited to continue the development and work with partners to launch the chain in the near future," said Davison. To receive regular updates on our business, please follow us on Twitter @eXeBlock or sign up to our email list on the front page of our website, www.exeblock.com. For More Information, please contact: Tara Wickwire info@exeblock.com Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION This press release contains forward-looking statements and information that are based on the beliefs of management and reflect the Company's current expectations. When used in this press release, the words 'estimate', 'project', 'belief', 'will', 'anticipate', 'intend', 'expect', 'plan', 'predict', 'may' or 'should' and the negative of these words or such variations or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. The forward-looking statements and information in this press release includes information relating to the commercialization of the 50/50 Labs application, the ability to generate revenues from the 50/50 Labs application and the implementation of eXeBlock's operating plans. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company with respect to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. There are a number of important risk factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those indicated or implied by forward-looking statements and information. Such risk factors include, among others, the Company's limited operating history and expected continued operating losses; failure of the Company's business strategy; inherent risks of the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry; system failures and security risks; government regulation; need for additional financing requirements and access to capital; reliance on key and qualified personnel; dependence on third party relationships; insurance; competition; and intellectual property. Other factors include risks associated with the marketing and sale of securities; dilution; the potential for conflicts of interest among certain officers or directors; and the volatility of the Company's common share price and volume. For a more detailed discussion of risk factors, refer to the Company's prospectus dated November 9, 2017 filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR www.sedar.com and on the CSE's website. The Company cautions that the foregoing list of material risk factors is not exhaustive. When relying on the Company's forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing risk factors and other uncertainties and potential events. The Company has assumed a certain progression of its business objectives, which may not be realized. It has also assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraph will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these risk factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS PRESS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE EXPECTATIONS OF THE COMPANY AS OF THE DATE OF THIS PRESS RELEASE AND, ACCORDINGLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER SUCH DATE. READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THIS INFORMATION AS OF ANY OTHER DATE. WHILE THE COMPANY MAY ELECT TO, IT DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME EXCEPT AS REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. -30- Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2018) - Inomin Mines Inc. (TSXV: MINE) ("Inomin", "MINE" or the "Company") announces its King's Point option agreement with Maritime Resources Corp. (TSXV: MAE) ("Maritime") has received shareholder approval and acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange. The deal provides additional exploration at King's Point to test the property's potential for high-grade gold deposits similar to Maritime's Hammerdown deposit, as well as for base metal deposits. Inomin benefits through cash and share payments from Maritime, as well as a 1% NSR on the property. Inomin received approval from 98.9% of shareholders who voted for the transaction at the Company's AGM held September 6, 2018. The King's Point gold-base metal project is within the Catcher's Pond Belt in the Green Bay area of Newfoundland, noted for high-grade gold and volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) base metal deposits. The project covers two separate areas of approximately 3,225 hectares collectively, situated adjacent to Maritime's flagship Green Bay polymetallic project that hosts the Hammerdown and Orion gold deposits, as well as the Lochinvar base-precious metal deposit. To date, eight precious and base metal prospects have been discovered at King's Point including epithermal gold mineralization at Golden Anchor, copper-gold mineralization at the past-producing Rendall Jackman mine, and zinc dominant VMS mineralization at Beetle Pond. King's Point - Green Bay Properties To view an enhanced version of Kings Point - Green Bay Properties, please visit: http://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3069/40104_a1538502125901_40.jpg The Company looks forward to the continued exploration of King's Point under the direction of Maritime that has strong geological and working knowledge of the region. Maritime is focused on reopening their nearby past-producing Hammerdown gold mine, and discovery of additional high-grade gold and base metal deposits. King's Point provides Maritime with several new exploration targets. Earlier this year, Maritime defended a hostile takeover attempt from Anaconda Mining Inc. Further information on King's Point, including a NI 43-101 Technical Report, is available at https://inominmines.com/projects/kings-point. As reported May 16, 2018, the option agreement enables Maritime to earn a 100% interest in King's Point by spending $600,000 in exploration, cash payments of $300,000 to Inomin, and issuing 2,000,000 Maritime common shares to the Company, in accordance with the following schedule. Date for Completion Payment Common Shares to be issued Expenditures (cumulative) On signing Option Agreement $25,000 - Three (3) business days following Approval Date* 500,000 - 1st anniversary of Approval Date $50,000 500,000 $75,000 2nd anniversary of Approval Date $100,000 500,000 $150,000 3rd anniversary of Approval Date $125,000 500,000 $375,000 TOTAL $300,000 2,000,000 $600,000 *The Approval Date is the date the Option Agreement is accepted for filing by the TSX Venture Exchange. Inomin will also receive a 1% NSR which can be purchased from the Company for $500,000. The project also has an underlying NSR of 2.5% of which 1.5% can be purchased for $1,000,000. John Gomez, president of MINE states, "Our deal with Maritime enables significantly more exploration at King's Point and the benefit of Maritime's geological expertise in the area. We expect Maritime's work will unlock the property's mineral potential. With King's Point in good hands, we can focus on other mineral project opportunities to create shareholder value." Subscribe to receive MINE news announcements by visiting https://bit.ly/2pWsA8i. About Inomin Mines Inomin Mines is engaged in the identification, exploration and development of mineral properties. The Company holds a 100% interest in the Fleetwood zinc-copper VMS project in British Columbia, and the King's Point gold-copper-zinc project in Newfoundland under option to Maritime Resources Corp. (TSXV: MAE). Inomin trades on the TSX Venture Exchange with the symbol MINE. For more information visit www.inominmines.com and join us on Twitter @InominMines. Company Director Bruce Winfield P.Geo, a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release. On behalf of the board of Inomin Mines: Inomin Mines Inc. Per: "John Gomez" President and CEO For more information contact: John Gomez Tel. 604.566.8703 info@inominmines.com Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain assumptions, estimates, and other forward-looking statements regarding future events. Such forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties and are subject to factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control that may cause actual results or performance to differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. NEW YORK, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage The ongoing growth of the cannabis sector is now driving a surge in acquisitions, as companies compete to control a burgeoning market. The cannabis sector has seen incredible growth, reaching $10 billion this year in the United States alone. this year in alone. This has led to a wave of mergers and acquisitions, as companies strengthen their positions. This pattern is accompanied by expansion into new markets and investment in smaller companies by their larger cousins. Hydroponic supplier Sugarmade, Inc. (OTC:SGMD) (SGMD Profile) is in the process of acquiring two hydroponic companies, improving its already strong position as a provider of vital cultivation equipment. Industry leader Aphria, Inc. (OTC:APHQF) is making acquisitions in Jamaica, Latin America, and Canada, with the latter giving it access to European markets. Cannabis outsider Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE:STZ) has invested heavily in cannabis grower Canopy Growth, with an eye to creating cannabis-infused beverages. In Florida, MedMen Enterprises, Inc. - Ordinary Shares - Class B (Sub Voting) (OTC:MMNFF) has acquired cultivation and retail assets, expanding its reach from three to four states. And Emerald Health Therapeutics (OTC:EMHTF) is set to acquire the remaining shares of Northern Vine Canada Inc., in a move that gives Emerald full ownership of Northern Vine. To view an infographic of this editorial, click here. Acquisitions Heating Up in the Cannabis Sector For a new sector of the economy, the cannabis industry has grown at a fantastic rate. In the relatively few years since medical cannabis started to be legalized in North America, a multimillion-dollar industry has evolved, covering cultivators, retailers, marketing and all the support services the industry needs. The recent legalization of recreational cannabis in several U.S. states and Canada, together with the growing popularity of medical cannabis, is propelling the industry's value into the billions. Initially, growth was mostly driven by the creation of new companies or subsidiaries of pharmaceutical firms, as they set up new businesses in a new economic space. But in recent years, that has changed. Larger cannabis companies have started taking over smaller rivals and companies serving different parts of the market. Acquisitions are on the rise. Consolidation in a Growing Sector The cannabis sector is made up of a wide range of companies, from those focused on cultivation to the likes of Sugarmade, Inc. (OTCQB:SGMD), a hydroponics supply company that is making a move into the broader cannabis space. The appearance of this range of companies has been made possible by the phenomenal growth of the market. The cannabis market in the United States is expected to be worth over $10 billion this year, 50 percent larger than it was in 2016, and that growth shows no sign of slowing. With an estimated $46 billion worth of business still existing outside legal markets, there's vast scope for expansion as legalization spreads and consumers are drawn away from black market dealers. And that's only in the United States, never mind the rest of the world. As faith in the industry grows, investors are pouring in additional funding, leading to a boom in mergers and acquisitions. Some early players are cashing out, making the most of their companies' growth to make a healthy profit and move on to something new. Others are taking over these smaller businesses, creating businesses with greater economic clout and more vertical integration. This led to 145 mergers and acquisitions in the sector in the first half of 2018, compared with only 79 during the same period a year before. Some of these have made big news, with Aphria investing $200 million acquisitions in Latin America and Jamaica while drinks company Constellation Brands acquired a third of the equity in Canopy Growth. This shift creates even more opportunities for companies sticking in the sector, such as Sugarmade. Acquisitions Big and Small Based in California, Sugarmade has immediate access to one of the world's largest legal cannabis markets and is making the most of that. One of the largest publicly traded hydroponic supply companies, its growth has been fueled by the vital role hydroponic equipment plays in the cultivation of cannabis. Much cannabis cultivation takes place indoors, using sophisticated specialist equipment produced by companies such as Sugarmade. This gives producers greater control over growing conditions, encourages more successful crops, allows year-round production and makes it easier to secure this valuable crop. Already a significant supplier of hydroponics, Sugarmade looks set to consolidate its position through the recently announced acquisition of two companies selling hydroponic and other cultivation supplies. This could make a huge difference to the company's financial fortunes. Its projected revenues for 2019, previously set at $30 million, could exceed $75 million if these deals go through, more than doubling the company's revenues. "The hydroponic supply sector is still highly fragmented with many of the larger players not likely to reach public company liquidity events for the original entrepreneurial teams," said Jimmy Chan, CEO of Sugarmade. "We have entered into talks with at least two of these companies for acquisition, which we believe will be highly accretive for common Sugarmade shareholders and additive to our already robust top line growth rate. We wanted to publicly disclose these discussions to ensure that all shareholders have equal access to our direction, thus our recent public filing." The company has set a special shareholder meeting October 10, creating an opportunity to establish more shares in the company and discuss the acquisitions. In a fast-growing sector such as cannabis, there's little time for delay. Investing in Others Sugarmade's success is largely driven by reaching new markets and supporting other companies, maximizing its potential for growth. Though U.S. based, the company has also begun expansion into the European market through online sales into the United Kingdom. Even in countries without a legal cannabis market, it is possible for hydroponics companies to sell their wares to people growing other specialist plants. And with cannabis legalization spreading globally, this allows companies such as Sugarmade to firmly establish their positions before a new market emerges. The company is expanding its presence within the North American cannabis market by investing in industrial hemp and cannabidiol (CBD). Industrial hemp, a form of cannabis without the high, can be used for a wide range of purposes and looks set to be widely grown in the United States following the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. CBD, which can be derived from industrial hemp, is a chemical whose beneficial properties are only just starting to be understood and which is used in a growing range of health and wellness products. Sugarmade is investing $1 million Hempistry, Inc., a Nevada hemp company. This is expected to provide access to Hempistry shares as well as a supply agreement between the two companies. Other businesses are also working to expand within the sector. Aphria, Inc. (OTC:APHQF), one of the most successful companies in the cannabis sector, is undertaking acquisitions that will extend its reach beyond North America. In July, it announced acquisitions in Argentina, Colombia, and Jamaica worth around $200 million. Acquired through sister company Scythian Biosciences Corp., these will give Aphria reach into markets outside the United States and Canada. The company also expanded its international reach through the acquisition of Canadian company Nuuvera, which has supply and sales agreements with companies in Germany, Italy, Spain, Malta, the United Kingdom, Israel and Uruguay. Drinks manufacturer Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE:STZ) is best known for beverages such as Corona, but it has recently made some surprising choices. The company has invested heavily in Canadian company Canopy Growth, moving into the cannabis market. Constellation's approach isn't about selling cannabis but about creating cannabis-infused drinks. These beverages are due to become legal in Canada next year. By creating a bridge between beverage manufacturers and cannabis growers, Constellation could be the first to establish widely recognized cannabis drink brands. Cannabis manufacturer and retailer MedMen Enterprises, Inc. - Ordinary Shares - Class B (Sub Voting) (OTC:MMNFF) shows what can be achieved by combining different elements in the cannabis supply chain. The company sees the product through from cultivation to customers' hands, all under a carefully managed brand. This summer, it acquired dispensary and cultivation assets from Treadwell Simpson Partnership and affiliates, adding facilities in Florida to those it already owned in California, Nevada, and New York. Emerald Health Therapeutics (OTC:EMHTF) owns Agro-Biotech, a licensed cannabis grower with a 75,000-square-foot indoor facility and plans to add a 500,000-square foot greenhouse. The company also owns 50 percent of Pure SunFarms, which is converting a licensed existing 1.1 million-square-foot greenhouse into a full-production commercial resource. The cannabis sector has matured in recent years. As it grows within the United States and beyond, acquisitions are allowing companies to expand their options and strengthen their position in a powerful new industry. For more information about Sugarmade, please visit Sugarmade, Inc. (OTCQB:SGMD). About CannabisNewsWire CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. 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This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. "Forward-looking statements" describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as "may", "future", "plan" or "planned", "will" or "should", "expected," "anticipates", "draft", "eventually" or "projected". You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company's annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and CNW and FNM undertake no obligation to update such statements. CannabisNewsWire (CNW) & NetworkNewsWire (NNW) are proud to be affiliated partners of the Investor Brand Network (IBN) About IBN Over the past 10+ years we have consistently introduced new network brands, each specifically designed to fulfil the unique needs of our growing client base and services. Today, we continue to expand our branded network of highly influential properties, leveraging the knowledge and energy of specialized teams of experts to serve our increasingly diversified list of clients. Please feel free to visit the Investor Brand Network (IBN) http://www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com Corporate Communications Contact: CannabisNewsWire (CNW) Denver, Colorado http://www.CannabisNewsWire.com +1-303-498-7722 Office Editor@CannabisNewsWire.net Media Contact: FN Media Group, LLC NNW@FinancialNewsMedia.com +1-(954)345-0611 PALM BEACH, Florida, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Financialnewsmedia.com News Commentary One of the more apparent emerging trends in the medical community is the increasing experimentation with CBD-based products and treatments as consumers are more open to alternative solutions to common diseases and ailments. The cannabis market has proven to be explosive and filled with opportunity for strong revenue streams and the CBD segment has perhaps emerged as the strongest portion of the overall market. And things are looking up as the Drug Enforcement Administration has reclassified some CBD products from Schedule I to Schedule V. CBD, or cannabidiol. The change in classification is the result of the Food and Drug Administration approving a CBD-based epilepsy which is a landmark change in the US government's stance on cannabis. After being green lighted as the first federally approved cannabis-based medication at the end of June, the drug has triggered the nation's top drug enforcer to change how it regulates marijuana. It's the first time in 46 years that the agency has shifted its stance on a marijuana compound. Active cannabis companies in the markets this week include Earth Science Tech, Inc. (OTC:ETST), KushCo Holdings Inc. (OTC:KSHB), India Globalization Capital, Inc. (NYSE:IGC), MedMen Enterprises Inc. (CSE:MMEN) (OTC:MMNFF), Chineseinvestors.com (OTC:CIIX). Earth Science Tech, Inc. (OTCQB: ETST) BREAKING NEWS: Earth Science Tech , an innovative biotech company focused on the cannabidiol (CBD), nutraceutical and pharmaceutical fields, medical devices, and research and development, today provides an update on the progression of its cannabidiol ("CBD") patents and reacts to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency's ("DEA") recent decision to remove certain CBD products from its Schedule 1 list of controlled substances. As previously announced, ETST will soon launch its two CBD-based nutraceutical formulas - a neuron protector and a breast protector - under the provisory patent. In tandem, the Company is developing a new brand for these two formula patents. ETST further announces that the Quebec Agrifood Innovation Center ("QAIC") is finishing the standardization of the formulas. By the end of October, TransBiotech will conduct in vitro testing for the formulas' biological activities, comparing the level of protection provide by ETST's hemp oil alone versus its hemp oil with other natural ingredients. These components have been meticulously chosen for their bioactivity. "The results obtained from TransBiotech will help us understand the mechanism of action of CBD and will open the doors for the research needed to develop revolutionary CDB-based pharmaceutical drugs," says ETST president and CEO Nickolas Tabraue. "We will provide more details on the progress of these formulas in the near future, as well as an update on the first CBD-based pharmaceutical product we are developing with Bionatus for the treatment of asthma, as announced last year." In addition to nutraceutical formulas, ETST's pipeline also includes CBD-based pharmaceutical formulas. As legalization of cannabis and cannabis-based products continues to spread, ETST expects that its pure hemp oil and new formulas will eventually be sold worldwide. As , ETST will be a licensed distributor and will work closely with pharmacists and researchers to serve the burgeoning cannabis market. This expectation is emboldened by the DEA's recent decision to reclassify FDA-approved drugs that contain cannabis-derived CBD and less than 0.1% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) as schedule V, the lowest restriction classification. The decision follows the FDA's first approval of a non-synthetic CBD-based drug to treat rare types of epilepsy. Once the ruling goes into effect, it could open the door for companies like ETST to develop treatments for other illnesses. The new classification will also render clinical studies with CBD easier to plan.Read this and more news for ETST athttp://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-etst Other recent developments in the cannabis industry include: India Globalization Capital Inc. (NYSE:IGC) came to a close up 46.34% on Tuesday with over 118.3 million shares traded by the market close. The company recently announced that it raised $1.0 million in a private placement of restricted shares. 869,565 shares of newly issued unregistered common stock were sold at $1.15 per share. After fees and expenses, the net proceeds to IGC are approximately $1.0 million. The net proceeds from the offering are for marketing and working capital associated with the commercialization of Hyalolextm. The sale is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by the NYSE. "We are pleased to receive an investment from a strategic investor who shares IGC's vision and confidence in commercializing our flagship product, Hyalolextm, and our ability to drive long-term shareholder value. The investment is made by Bradbury Investment Fund limited, based in Hong Kong, through three of its Global Asset Funds. The investment is strategic as the fund can introduce the Company to potential acquisitions of global assets as more countries legalize hemp, cannabinoids, and cannabis. Further, the fund can also help the Company in introducing its products, including Hyalolextm, in foreign countries," said Ram Mukunda, CEO of IGC. KushCo Holdings Inc. (OTCQB:KSHB) recently announced it is changing the name of its Kush Bottles division to Kush Supply Co., effective October 1, 2018. The updated name better reflects the platform's lateral transition to a more diversified business model, where the Company now supplies growers, extractors, infused product-makers, brands, and large multi-state operators with a range of products and services that meet and exceed the critical needs in their supply chains. In addition, with these clients experiencing hyper growth due to rapidly increased consumer demand, there is now more of a need for a one-stop supplier of core ancillary products who can scale with the market as it expands. Kush Supply Co. will be led by Jason Vegotsky, who will serve as the division's President, after formerly serving as Vice President of Sales. "This brand change will be pivotal for how we communicate to our current and potential customers. Our value proposition continues to expand on a very frequent basis. We recognize the importance for key multi-state operators and extractors who are scaling to have a partner that can support all facets of their business. As we continue our own internal effort of explosive growth, as evidenced in our recent preliminary fiscal year 2018 revenue of $51 million, Kush Supply Co. will continue innovating and focusing on what we need to do to be that premier partner," said Jason Vegotsky, President of Kush Supply Co. MedMen Enterprises Inc. (CSE:MMEN.CN) (OTCQB:MMNFF) recently announced it has signed a definitive agreement (the "Agreement") with WhiteStar Solutions LLC ("WhiteStar") to acquire control of Monarch, a Scottsdale, Arizona-based licensed medical cannabis license holder with dispensary, cultivation and processing operations through the acquisition of Omaha Management Services, LLC. In addition, MedMen will acquire from WhiteStar their exclusive co-manufacturing and licensing agreements with Kiva, Mirth Provisions and HUXTON for the state of Arizona. "Our strategy has been to establish our brand in the primary markets of California, Nevada and New York," said Adam Bierman, MedMen chief executive and co-founder. "We have a leading presence in those primary markets and we are now ready to expand our reach. Arizona, with its robust medical marijuana program and connectivity to California and Nevada where our brand is already strong, makes this a great fit." Arizona is one the largest medical marijuana markets in the country with over 172,000 current patients. The state also represents one of the larger addressable adult-use markets in the U.S. A ballot measure to legalize adult-use narrowly missed in 2016, and is expected to return in 2020. Chineseinvestors.com (OTCQB:CIIX) came to a close up 55.30% on Tuesday with a volume north of 4.3 million shares trading by the market close. Earlier this week, the company announced plans to launch CBD Hemp Wine, its private brand, hemp-infused, rice wine, through its wholly-owned foreign enterprise CBD Biotechnology Co. Ltd ("CBD Biotech"). Given the popularity of infused wine and liquor in recent years, CBD Biotech's new hemp-infused, rice wine was developed with the hemp enthusiast in mind. Moreover, CBD Biotech believes that there are potential long-term, functional benefits of hemp and rice wine. In Bama, a Chinese village located in Guangxi Province, the famed "longevity town of China" known for having the longest living residents, the villagers claim to have discovered the secret of long life: rice wine, which they drink throughout the day, snake wine, and a soup made from hemp seeds. Bama is also one of the world's five longevity towns in terms of distribution rate of centenarians, with a population of just over 300,000, 73 of whom are centenarians, one of the highest ratios in the world. DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates Financialnewsmedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM's market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM has been compensated forty six hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by Earth Science Tech, Inc. by the company. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE. This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. "Forward-looking statements" describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as "may", "future", "plan" or "planned", "will" or "should", "expected," "anticipates", "draft", "eventually" or "projected". You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company's annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements. Contact Information: Media Contact email: editor@financialnewsmedia.com +1(561)325-8757 VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2018 / MGX Minerals Inc. ("MGX" or the "Company") ( CSE: XMG / FKT: 1MG / OTCQB: MGXMF ) is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary ZincNyx Energy Solutions, Inc. ("ZincNyx") has released preliminary datasheet specifications for its product line of next generation zinc-air energy storage systems. Details are as follows: ZincNyx Energy Storage System The ZincNyx ESS is a modular Energy Storage System designed to deliver backup power in the range 5 to 100 kW over extended periods of time. With the advantage of rechargeable zinc-air fuel cell technology, the system can be configured to support a wide range of discharge power, recharge power and duty cycle requirements. Since the energy storage capacity of the system (kWh) is determined only by the size of the fuel tank, a very cost-effective solution is available for long-duration applications such as renewables firming and emergency backup. An independent Battery Management System enables the system to be configured for any AC/DC, load/source environment. Figure 1. ZincNyx modular Energy Storage System (ESS) Technology The ZincNyx ESS is based upon ZincNyx's unique and patented zinc-air fuel cell technology. Energy is stored in the form of zinc particles, similar in size to grains of sand. When the system is delivering power, the zinc particles are combined with oxygen drawn from the surrounding air. When the system is recharging, the zinc particles are regenerated and the oxygen is returned to the surrounding air. Applications The flexibility of the ZincNyx ESS enables it to service a wide range of applications. Typical examples include: Firming renewable energy sources such as wind, solar and tidal Enabling optimum operation of diesel generator sets servicing fluctuating loads Replacing diesel generators for emergency backup services Providing long duration backup for telecommunication sites Smoothing the load presented by vehicle charging systems Architecture The ZincNyx ESS is designed according to a modular architecture that enables a wide variety of system configurations to be created from a small number of common subsystems. Each subsystem implements a single element of the technology: The Zinc Regeneration Subsystem (ZRS) provides the recharging function The Fuel Storage Subsystem (FSS) provides the energy storage function The Power Generation Subsystem (PGS) provides the discharging function PGM-5000 Power Generation Module The ZincNyx PGM-5000 is a power generation module that combines oxygen from the atmosphere with zinc particles drawn from a storage tank to generate electricity. It is composed of 24 bipolar plates connected in series to produce a nominal 24 Volt output. The unit is constructed of Noryl plastic and is fitted with SurLok connectors for quick electrical installation. Optional instrumentation includes an embedded microprocessor control system and associated voltage, temperature and pressure sensors. Figure 2. PGM-5000 Power Generation Module Technology The PGM-5000 is a key component of ZincNyx's unique and patented zinc-air energy storage system. In this system, energy is stored in the form of zinc particles, similar in size to grains of sand. When the system is delivering power, the zinc particles are combined with oxygen drawn from the surrounding air in the Power Generation Module (PGM). ZRM-4500 Zinc Regeneration Module The ZincNyx ZRM-4500 is a zinc regeneration module that uses electricity to extract zinc particles from a potassium zincate solution. It is composed of up to 18 bipolar plates connected in series and driven from a nominal 60 Volt input. The unit is constructed of Noryl plastic and magnesium alloy and is fitted with SurLok connectors for quick electrical installation. Optional instrumentation includes an embedded microprocessor control system and associated voltage sensors. Figure 3. ZRM-4500 Zinc Regeneration Module Technology The ZRM-4500 is a key component of ZincNyx's unique and patented zinc-air energy storage system. In this system, energy is stored in the form of zinc particles, similar in size to grains of sand. When the system is recharging, the zinc particles are regenerated and the evolved oxygen is returned to the surrounding air by the Zinc Regeneration Module (ZRM). Update on Spin-Off of ZincNyx The Company is also pleased to provide an update on the proposed spin out of ZincNyx into a publicly traded company (the "Transaction"). An additional dividend date will be set shortly in which MGX shareholders of record will receive an additional 7% of payment in kind of ZincNyx shares, modifying the total amount whereas 60% of outstanding shares will be owned by MGX and 40% will be paid as a dividend to MGX shareholders. The Prospectus is expected to be filed this month and Zincnyx is now planning on going public by way of Initial Public Offering. Further to the Prior Release (see press release dated April 3, 2018), MGX intends for ZincNyx to become a standalone company following the spin out by way of a dividend in kind of ZincNyx shares by MGX. The Proposed Distribution is expected to be made by way of ZincNyx filing a prospectus (the "Prospectus") with securities regulatory authorities in the jurisdictions where MGX is a reporting issuer (the "Securities Regulators") in order to qualify the Proposed Distribution of ZincNyx Shares to MGX Shareholders such that the ZincNyx shares to be delivered under the Proposed Distribution are not expected to be subject to any statutory hold periods. The Proposed Distribution will not occur unless or until a receipt for the final Prospectus is obtained from the Securities Regulators. The Company has not yet made any application to list the ZincNyx Shares for trading on an exchange, no market currently exists for the ZincNyx Shares, and the Prior Release is qualified in its entirety by this news release. The Prospectus will constitute a public offering of the ZincNyx Shares only in those jurisdictions where they may be lawfully offered for sale and therein only by persons permitted to sell such securities. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States. The ZincNyx Shares have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States, unless pursuant to an exemption from such laws. For more information on ZincNyx, please refer to the Prior Release and the Company's other news releases, dated December 13, 2017, December 18, 2017, January 9, 2018, January 30, 2018, February 1, 2018, February 7, 2018 and March 12, 2018, available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and at www.mgxminerals.com. About ZincNyx Energy Solutions ZincNyx has developed a patented regenerative zinc-air flow battery that efficiently stores energy in the form of zinc particles and contains none of the traditional high cost battery commodities such as lithium, vanadium, or cobalt. The technology allows for low cost mass storage of energy and can be deployed into a wide range of applications. Unlike conventional batteries, which have a fixed energy/power ratio, ZincNyx's technology uses a fuel tank system that offers flexible energy/power ratios and scalability. The storage capacity is directly tied to the size of the fuel tank and the quantity of recharged zinc fuel, making scalability a major advantage of the flow battery system. In addition, a further major advantage of the zinc-air flow battery is the ability to charge and discharge simultaneously and at different maximum charge or discharge rates since each of the charge and discharge circuits is separate and independent. Other types of standard and flow batteries are limited to a maximum charge and discharge by the total number of cells as there is no separation of the charge, discharge and storage components. The ZincNyx mission is to provide cost effective, long duration and reliable energy storage systems for markets involving renewables firming, peak shaving, diesel generator replacement, telecom facility back-up, electrification of ferries and tug boats and electric vehicle charging support. With a portfolio of 20 granted patents and an experienced management team, ZincNyx has begun mass production (see press release August 9, 2018). To learn more about ZincNyx technology visit www.zincnyx.com . About MGX Minerals MGX Minerals is a diversified Canadian resource company with interests in lithium, magnesium and silicon assets throughout North America. Learn more at www.mgxminerals.com . Contact Information Jared Lazerson President and CEO Telephone: 1.604.681.7735 Web: www.mgxminerals.com Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking information or forward-looking statements (collectively "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is typically identified by words such as: "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "potentially" and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by the Company is not a guarantee of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking information as a result of various factors. The reader is referred to the Company's public filings for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects which may be accessed through the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com . SOURCE: MGX Minerals Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/513272/MGX-Minerals-Announces-Product-Lineup-for-Next-Generation-Zinc-Air-Fuel-Cell-Systems Digital Utilities Ventures, Inc. (OTC PINK: DUTV) is pleased to announce it has entered into a strategic partnership with Lakota Tribal Cooperative, LLC (LTC). LTC was created to become the largest grower of commercial hemp in the United States. Their ambitious plan includes the planting of 10,000 to 20,000 acres of hemp in the Spring of 2019. Under this agreement, DUTV will acquire 47.5% of Lakota Tribal Cooperative, LLC in exchange for an investment of up to $50 million. "Digital is committed to working with the Lakota Tribal Cooperative to create jobs and revenue within the community," says Digital CEO. Maurice Stone. According to Stone, the investment will be used for all aspects of the operation from planting and harvesting, to the purchase or lease of heavy-duty tractors, harvesters, truck trailers, grain drills, dryers, pelletizers, irrigation equipment, buildings and building the extraction facility. "We, along with the Lakota Tribal Cooperative, envision both short and long-term growth as the laws regarding industrial hemp evolve to reflect the reality what hemp means for producers and consumers, in the US and internationally," says Stone. Hemp and its extracts are currently illegal at the Federal level, having been lumped together with marijuana as a Schedule 1 drug, along with cocaine and heroin. In reality, hemp and its extracted CBD do not have the same psychoactive effect as the THC found in marijuana. In fact, many components of CBD counteract the "high" people get from THC. As a result, the attitudes and laws around hemp and CBD are changing. Earlier this year, the World Health Organization recommended hemp and CBD be removed from the list of controlled substances in all nations. The 2018 Farm Bill currently making its way through Congress includes a provision to legalize hemp and CBD in all 50 states. Businesses both on and off Wall Street have been making moves in preparation for this seismic shift in the marketplace. In addition to the health benefits of CBD extracts, which include life changing medications for epileptics, and promising benefits for diabetics and those suffering from Parkinson's, industrial hemp has application in over 25,000 products. The fastest growth market for hemp is the auto industry, from plastics to fabric. Hemp offers fabrication versatility rarely seen from a single raw materials source. Based on current market conditions, we anticipate generating approximately $90,000 gross revenues per acre based on harvesting 1,700 plants per acre, which translates to approximately 10-kilos of CBD distillate per acre. We anticipate NET income from the 2019 crop to be in excess of $400,000,000. "Everyone is waiting on the Farm Bill," said Stone. "The current bill expired on September 30th and we hope to see a vote come through quickly. We anticipate more big news to come through on the heels of the changes in the law. Being able to cultivate interstate business will break the market wide open. DUTV has been working for the past year to be in a very strong position as this market evolves." About Digital Utilities Ventures, Inc. Digital Utilities Ventures has targeted the medical and recreational segments of the marijuana market. We have a concentration on hemp and its 25,000 associated products (https://ministryofhemp.com/hemp/not-marijuana/). Our core product line is CBD and its medical derivatives and line extensions. CBD (cannabidiol) - is a cannabis non-hallucinatory compound that has significant medical benefits for the treatment of a wide range of conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, alcoholism, MS, chronic pain, schizophrenia, depression, antibiotic-resistant infections, epilepsy, opioids and other neurological disorders. Digital Utilities Ventures, Inc. is poised to become an industry innovator by developing an end-to-end supply chain approach to the legal cannabis and hemp markets. The Company's strategy is to develop through acquisitions and business development a vertically integrated business model that covers the entire spectrum of the CBD business from cultivation, through production, quality control and finally to distribution through dispensaries (https://www.hempbizjournal.com/size-of-us-hemp-industry-2017/). Contact Info: https://www.duventures.com Phone: 617-588-0068 Email: info@duventures.com Forward Looking Statements This press release includes statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements, usually containing the words "believe," "estimate," "project," "expect" or similar expressions. These statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements inherently involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that would cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, acceptance of the Company's current and future products and services in the marketplace, the ability of the Company to develop effective new products and receive regulatory approvals of such products, competitive factors, dependence upon third-party vendors, and other risks detailed in the Company's periodic report filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. By making these forward-looking statements, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release. SOURCE: Digital Utilities Ventures, Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/513265/Digital-Utilities-Ventures-Inc-Makes-Strong-Move-into-Hemp-Market-with-Lakota-Tribal-Cooperative-LLC New survey reveals demand for mobile applications that consider context and maintain a high level of privacy Connecthings, a leader in location-based mobile application solutions, today announced the launch of Herow, an augmented location platform that provides mobile application developers and marketers with the tools and user insights needed to transform the way they deliver valuable, personalized mobile user experiences. A recent Connecthings survey of more than 1,000 mobile users, "The State of Mobile Application Usage," shows a demand for applications that engage with users based on context. Approximately 60 percent of respondents said they believe mobile experiences should be customized to their wants, needs and location, and more than 40 percent believe applications should be "smart" enough to anticipate needs and wants based on their location and behavioral patterns. Leveraging a decade-long understanding of the city fabric, hyper-precise location technology, and machine learning algorithms, Herow by Connecthings helps mobile application developers and marketers optimize services and deliver experiences based on the context of their users in real time. Augmented location technology provides unprecedented insights about users, including: Precise location Beyond a pin drop on a map, Herow identifies if a user is at home, at work, at the gym, shopping or one of many other semantic descriptions. Beyond a pin drop on a map, Herow identifies if a user is at home, at work, at the gym, shopping or one of many other semantic descriptions. Real-time behavior Herow senses if a user is sitting still at home, in motion shopping or commuting on a bus or subway. Herow senses if a user is sitting still at home, in motion shopping or commuting on a bus or subway. Context of user surroundings - Herow incorporates information about a user's surroundings such as the weather, nearby users or traffic conditions to draw conclusions about how to augment mobile experiences. "As mobile technology advances, users demand richer experiences. They want 'smart' applications that seamlessly understand their behavior, anticipate their needs, offer appropriate and useful solutions, and enhance daily life," said Connecthings founder and CEO Laetitia Gazel Anthoine. "Herow is at the intersection of data, places and people it's all about the here and now. This approach has a positive impact on mobile applications. We're seeing up to 15 percent increase in user retention, as well as three times higher engagement rates on applications with augmented location." Fueling Rich User Experiences Respondents to the recent survey reported only half of the notifications they receive are relevant to their situation (time, place and activity); more than 60 percent reported the most annoying aspects of notifications are lack of relevancy and poor timing. Herow's augmented location technology collects and analyzes 2,000 data points per user per day. As the data gets richer, so does its analytics and developers' ability to improve the efficacy and longevity of their applications. Privacy is Paramount Privacy is top-of-mind for both companies and consumers. In addition to the European General Data Protection Regulation, many U.S. states are proposing regulations that will impact how businesses consume and store data. Survey respondents reported that although they are willing to share location data with family, friends and even their favorite brands, 72 percent believe that data should not be shared with third parties. Herow applies a two-layer opt-in approach to location-sharing permissions. Location and behavioral data are used exclusively by applications to customize experiences. Connecthings does not save historical data or share it with any third-party services. Users can request to opt out and have information deleted by applications at any time. "Privacy is intrinsic to Connecthings," Anthoine said. "While many other companies are in the business of sharing and selling consumer location information, our data is used only by our customers' applications to anticipate user needs and wants, then offer relevant, timely experiences, always with privacy in mind." Easy-to-Use Platform with Power-Efficient SDK Herow features an intuitive user interface that allows customers to easily build targeted campaigns and exceptional mobile experiences without technical expertise. The power-efficient software development kit delivers precise location data without draining mobile battery life. Connecthings is the only location intelligence provider to boast 11 years of experience bridging the gap between the digital and physical worlds. Learn how Herow can fuel richer application experiences at https://connecthings.com/product. About Connecthings With more than a decade of bridging the gap between the digital and physical urban landscape, Connecthings is the leader in augmented location technology. Leveraging a deep knowledge of the city fabric, hyper-precise location technology and machine-learning algorithms, Herow by Connecthings helps mobile applications understand the context of users in real time in order to deliver relevant, timely experiences. With five offices across three continents, Connecthings now counts hundreds of clients including more than 60 cities and 3 patents in Europe and the Americas. To learn how augmented location is transforming mobile application experiences, visit www.connecthings.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005270/en/ Contacts: Look Left Marketing Jennifer Tanner, 229-834-3004 jtanner@lookleftforgrowth.com BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2018 / Muirfield Investment Partners is proud to announce the addition of John D'Agostino to its growing advisory board. The Boston-based private equity real estate firm is reinventing private equity investing with blockchain technology. Mr. D'Agostino's vast experience in corporate governance and investment management will help Muirfield navigate continuously evolving regulatory standards for companies employing crypto solutions. About John D'Agostino Mr. D'Agostino has a wealth of experience bringing technological innovation to the investment world. As Vice President and Head of Strategy at the New York Mercantile Exchange, he brought electronic trading to the floor and spearheaded the creation of the Dubai Mercantile Exchange. Mr. D'Agostino served on global leadership teams within KPMG's Finance and Hedge Fund consulting groups, offering advisory services across several industries. While Managing Director of New York-based investment advisor and hedge fund sponsor, Alkeon Capital, he led the build-out of a quant and HFT desk. Today, Mr. D'Agostino is a Managing Director at DMS Governance, one of the largest and most renowned fund governance firms in the world. Mr. D'Agostino started and maintains the largest working group dedicated to developing best practices for blockchain based digital assets. Mr. D'Agostino has lectured at INSEAD University, Columbia Business School and MIT Sloan Business School, and has developed research notes with the MIT Connection Science's Lab around next-generation technology enabled trading strategies. About Muirfield Muirfield is an opportunistic private equity real estate investment firm leading the effort to reinvent private equity investing with blockchain technology. By utilizing blockchain technology, Muirfield's proprietary investment solutions aim to solve key structural issues with traditional private equity funds, offer investors liquidity and improve alignment with their investment managers. Muirfield's Founder, Tom Zaccagnino stated: "John brings unparalleled experience and insight to Muirfield's advisory board. Blockchain regulation is an ongoing discussion and John's perspective and instincts will help to ensure that Muirfield is aligned with the latest regulatory standards." As someone who has long recognized the power of adopting technological breakthroughs, Mr. D'Agostino is looking forward to working with an organization utilizing decentralized technology to disrupt the status quo and offer superior investment vehicles. Mr. D'Agostino said: "Muirfield is comprised of progressive leaders and thinkers who recognize the need for structural improvement across private equity real estate investments and are driving that change through the use of blockchain technology. They are also spearheading a responsible, regulated, compliant and institutionally acceptable approach to next generation capital formation." Contact Information: http://muirfield.io/ SOURCE: Muirfield Investment Partners View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/513259/John-Dagostino-Joins-Muirfield-Advisory-Board DRAP (Drug Regulatory Authority Pakistan) provided approval to commence studies of INSUGIN in Pakistan West Caldwell, New Jersey and Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2018) - EastGate Biotech Corp. (OTC Pink: ETBI), a pharmaceutical company that focuses on innovative technological developments specifically in insulin drug delivery for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), today announced it received the approval from DRAP (www.dra.gov.pk) to commence a Phase 2 clinical trial of its oral mouth rinse. The generic name of the insulin mouth rinse is INSUGIN. The primary objectives of the study are to evaluate the safety and tolerability of INSUGIN in Type 2 patients. Secondary objectives are to assess the pharmacokinetic profile, food effects, and pharmacodynamic effects of INSUGIN. Rose, President of EastGate said, "We couldn't be happier with the progress our Joint Venture partner in Pakistan, Origin Pharma/Netris Pharma has made in a short period of time to outline the regulatory path to approval in this market in a succinct matter with a view to mirroring the pathway and protocol to other markets." "The initiation of human studies is a major accomplishment as we move forward with our clinical program that has over $40 million in milestone payments committed," said Anna Gluskin, CEO of EastGate. "As we transition away from proof of concept and into rigorous clinical development, we will be updating our shareholders more frequently and get into more detail about the protocol and recruitment levels as our principal investigator makes the information available. We already have proof of concept and expect this trial to be a substantial springboard to additional licensees once the trial data becomes available. For years patient compliance has been a major hurdle in treating T2DM and we believe INSUGIN has merit, not only in the non-compliant market, but also in the mainstream market where injections currently dominate. This drug could change the market paradigm for the treatment of T2DM." Nasir Irfat, Director of Regulatory Foreign Affairs & Relations for Origin Pharma/Netris, said, "It is with satisfaction that we can announce that our first clinical trial application has been submitted to a national authority and BioEthical committee. The start of the clinical trial is planned for Insugin assuming required approvals have been granted. After completion of the Phase 2 studies at the end of 2018, we plan on a follow-up scientific advisory meeting with DRAP. We approach this milestone with continued confidence." About Oral Mouth Rinse EastGate Biotech's oral insulin mouth rinse is delivered through the buccal mucosa (inner lining of the mouth) and penetrates the blood brain barrier. It is a liquid solution that acts like a mouthwash. It is swirled for less than 60 seconds prior to each meal and delivers 25UI via a 5 ml dosage. It serves to supplement existing Type 2 regimens like Metformin or other anti-diabetes drugs. In Pakistan, the Health Authorities have allowed the testing to include Type 1 Patients as well. About Type 2 Diabetes Type 2 diabetes, the most common type of diabetes, is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. Blood glucose is your main source of energy and comes mainly from the food you eat. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, helps glucose get into your cells to be used for energy. In Type 2 diabetes, your body doesn't make enough insulin or doesn't use insulin well. Too much glucose then stays in your blood, and not enough reaches your cells. You can develop Type 2 diabetes at any age, even during childhood. However, Type 2 diabetes occurs most often in middle-aged and older people. You are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if you are age 45 or older, have a family history of diabetes, or are overweight or obese. Diabetes is more common in people who are African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander. About EastGate Biotech EastGate Biotech focuses on innovative technological developments and produces and distributes innovative drug compounds and healthy nutraceuticals that are based on natural therapies absorbed by the body. We utilize advanced nanotechnologies and alternative delivery systems that take difficult to deliver compounds and deliver them using our nanotechnology platform which ultimately increases the bioavailability to the body. Using our methods of delivery provides healthy alternatives to conventional pharmaceuticals that all-too-often create dangerous side-effects and unexpected consequences for those trying to attain and maintain a healthy lifestyle. EastGate's wholly owned subsidiary Omni Surgery and Anti-Aging Centre is the first of many surgery centers to come under the Omni umbrella as we plan to roll up existing business under the Omni brand and expand our footprint globally. Cautionary statement on forward-looking information All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained or incorporated by reference in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the provisions for "safe harbor" under the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date of this news release. The words "anticipates,' "plans,' "expects,' "indicate,' "intend,' "scheduled,' "estimates,' "forecasts,' "focus,' "guidance,' "initiative,' "model,' "methodology,' "outlook,' "potential,' "projected,' "pursue,' "strategy,' "study,' "targets,' or "believes,' or variations of or similar such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may,' "could,' "would,' or "should,' "might,' or "way forward,' "will be taken,' "will occur" or "will be achieved" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies. The risks, estimates, models and assumptions contained or incorporated by reference in this release, include those identified from time to time in the reports filed by EastGate with the SEC, which should be considered together with any forward-looking statement. EastGate undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. CONTACT: Rose Perri 1-647-692-0652 Email: information@eastgatepharmaceuticals.com Website: www.EastGateBiotech.com Las Vegas, Nevada--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2018) - Freedom Leaf Inc. (OTCQB: FRLF) owner of full spectrum CBD brands IrieCBD and Hempology ("Freedom Leaf or the "Company"), announced today that it has received a significant investment from cannabis private equity firm Merida Capital Partners ("Merida") to further expand its existing US sales channels and accelerate its European hemp cultivation operations. Freedom Leaf and Merida have also agreed in principal to a strategic partnership by which Merida will provide certain operational resources and support for both Freedom Leaf's US hemp-based cannabidiol (CBD) sales efforts and their global cultivation operations. In connection with Merida's investment, Merida Senior Partner David Goldburg will be joining the Freedom Leaf Board of Directors. Freedom Leaf anticipates using capital from Merida's investment for several important corporate priorities: i) upgrading production capacity at Freedom Leaf's recently acquired 430,000 square foot greenhouse facility in Valencia, Spain, which is already harvesting hemp for sale in Europe; ii) securing GMP certification for the Valencia facility, which should allow Freedom Leaf to add cannabis cultivation to its existing hemp production; iii) developing the Company's hemp extraction, distillation and processing lab in North Las Vegas; iv) expanding the Company's ecommerce funnel for CBD sales as well as its online media properties; and v) optimizing the Company's product formulation and distribution supply chain. Clifford Perry, CEO of Freedom Leaf, commented on the investment and partnership, "Receiving an investment from a leading cannabis firm like Merida, which already has investments in key supply chain providers like KushCo, GrowGeneration and Emerald Scientific, should drive our US expansion and ensure we are building our CBD production business efficiently, while also giving us incredible support in our global expansion." "Merida's investment is a validation of Freedom Leaf's aggressive efforts to build a high-quality family of cannabidiol-based products, but it is also an acknowledgement of the potential for the Valencia, Spain cultivation facility to become a significant supplier of both hemp and cannabis to European markets in the immediate future," said Mitch Baruchowitz, Managing Partner of Merida Capital Partners. Added David Goldburg, "I am excited to work closely with the Freedom Leaf team to rapidly expand their US CBD footprint while developing their European operations, including working with recent Merida investee, Italian CBD production company Materia Medica Processing." Carter Terry & Company acted as the sole placement agent in this transaction. Carter Terry is a full-service broker-dealer and investment banking firm located in Atlanta, Georgia. About Freedom Leaf Freedom Leaf Inc. (OTCQB: FRLF), a group of diversified, international, vertically-integrated hemp businesses concentrating on health, wellness, and education as well as cannabis media companies. Freedom Leaf, Inc. has been a leading go-to resource in the cannabis, medical marijuana and industrial hemp industries since 2014, founded by professionals with decades of combined experience in marijuana legalization advocacy. FRLF is building a diverse portfolio of valuable businesses through strategic mergers, acquisitions, and acceleration projects across the industry. Freedom Leaf, Inc. does not handle, grow, sell, or dispense marijuana or related products. All of our European activities are in full compliance with relevant EU laws. Investor relations information can be found on the FreedomLeafInc.com company website. About Merida Capital Partners Merida Capital Partners is a private equity firm targeting fundamental growth drivers which accelerate the rapid development of the cannabis industry. Our motto, Responsible Investing in the Emerging Cannabis Industry, highlights our focus on cultivation technologies, products and services associated with the evolution of cannabis as an agricultural product, a natural plant-based medicine, a constituent in pharmaceutical formulations and a recreational consumer product. For more information, please visit www.meridacap.com or follow us on twitter @meridacap. Safe Harbor Statement Statements in this press release that are not strictly historical are "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by phrases such as Freedom Leaf, Inc. or its management "believes," "expects," "anticipates," "foresees," "forecasts," "estimates" or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly,statements herein that describe the Company's business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals also are forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to differences include the uncertainty regarding viability and market acceptance of the Company's products and services, changes in relationships with third parties, and other factors described in the Company's most recent periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K dated June 30, 2016 and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Contact: Raymond Medeiros PR and Business Development Director Phone: 415-601-1974 ray@freedomleaf.com Freedom Leaf, Inc. In a financial deal of 6M, NextStage AM takes a stake in Inova Software, a SaaS partnering platform for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, to further boost its growth. Inova Software develops a SaaS partnering platform that facilitates collaborations between pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Inova Software's solutions are used by over 120 companies, including half of the top 50 pharmaceutical companies, such as Roche, Novartis, Lilly and Bayer, to manage their external partnerships and accelerate their therapeutic advances. The life sciences industry is undergoing a strong push towards partnering, driven by their need to innovate. Wanting to capitalize on this opportunity for growth, Inova Software is welcoming NextStage AM as a new shareholder. Inova Software's Annual Recurrent Revenue has grown 30% year to year over the past 3 years and is expected to exceed 6 million euros this year. With this new financing, Inova Software anticipates even faster growth through: Inova Partnering Platform , covering the entire partnering lifecycle : Widely used by the business development and alliance management teams, Inova's partnering platform is being adopted by more departments, such as R&D, M&A and manufacturing. These departments are all increasing their activities with external partners. : Widely used by the business development and alliance management teams, Inova's partnering platform is being adopted by more departments, such as R&D, M&A and manufacturing. These departments are all increasing their activities with external partners. Inova One-on-One Partnering, the digital networking solution for conferences: Since 2015, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) and Inova have facilitated exchanges between life science companies during the industry's biggest conferences. In 2018, for example, this solution enabled over 45,000 business meetings to be organized at BIO's annual convention in Boston, USA. Based on its success, more and more life science events are adopting Inova's networking solution. By teaming up with NextStage AM, Inova Software will unleash its ability to innovate, reinforce its marketing investments, and execute acquisitions. Inova Software has offices in Lyon, New York and Tokyo. The company currently employs 50 people and plans to recruit an additional 15 employees in 2019. Inova Software generates over 90% of its turnover outside of France (including 45% in the United States) and expects to see its recurring revenue grow 40% in 2019. "NextStage AM is a great fit for Inova. We were attracted by their strong entrepreneur/investor culture and enthusiasm for our ambitious, groundbreaking projects," explained Gilles Toulemonde, CEO and co-founder of Inova Software. "Inova Software manages to be both a leading player and a disruptive one in an industry that is undergoing an enormous amount of upheaval. This industry is reinventing itself and Inova Software has everything it takes to grow and become a strategic partner of top biopharma companies. We are proud to be able to accompany Inova over the long term," added Nicolas de Saint Etienne, Partner, NextStage AM. About Inova Software Inova provides a cloud-based software and services for life sciences companies to better manage their partnering lifecycle. By using Inova our clients manage their biopharma opportunities more efficiently. They find all their partnering information in one place, track their deals and alliances easily and report on their pipeline and activities in seconds. We have also developed strategic partnerships that make data from the 20 biggest biopharma events automatically available in Inova, providing our users with always up-to-date company and contact information. Over 120 life science companies, including 50% of the top 50 pharmaceutical companies and many midsize pharma and biotechs already use Inova. We are headquartered in Lyon, France, and also operate offices in New York and Tokyo. For more information, visit www.inova-software.com About NextStage AM Based in Paris, NextStage AM is a leading growth equity firm. NextStage AM invests in a limited number of innovative French and European medium-sized businesses, bringing an entrepreneur/investor expertise and significant operational and international experience. NextStage AM provides these companies with the means to accelerate their development and their ability to innovate in order to become champions of their industry, in France and globally, through organic and/or external growth. For more information, visit www.nextstage.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005050/en/ Contacts: Press Contact Inova Software Meghan Fleming, +33 04 78 27 95 02 meghan.fleming@inova-software.com www.inova-software.com LinkedIn: Inova Software Twitter: @inova_software Quick-Deploy Auto-Point Antenna Manufactured by Virgin Technologies Provides Portable Satellite Connectivity in Remote Locations SYDNEY, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Speedcast International Limited (ASX: SDA), the world's most trusted provider of remote communication and IT solutions, today launched the VR7 auto-point antenna, a quick-deploy antenna solution providing critical connectivity in the most remote locations worldwide. Speedcast is the exclusive international partner for the VR7 antenna manufactured by Virgin Technologies. The VR7 1.2-meter auto-point antenna offers seamless connectivity to C-, Ku- and Ka-band satellite communications anywhere in the world. The simple setup takes only minutes to connect and power on, and allows companies to maintain critical operations and crew safety in the most challenging and remote environments, with access to crucial applications such as web, e-mail, VPN, VoIP and more. The VR7 includes technology that automatically connects to the best available network and can be deployed on the ground or mounted to a vehicle or skid platform, making it versatile and ideal for use by military, government, energy, mining and humanitarian or disaster recovery organizations. "The VR7 auto-point antenna is an innovative, reliable solution for companies performing critical jobs in remote locations around the world," said Tim Bailey, Executive Vice President, Products, Marketing & Business Development, Speedcast. "This antenna can be set up virtually anywhere, on any surface and will connect to C-, Ku- or Ka-band satellite beams automatically, based on the best available connectivity option. With so many of our customers requiring remote connectivity in challenging environments, this product enhances the Speedcast connectivity offerings and offers a reliable solution wherever the users are operating." For more information about Speedcast or the VR7 antenna solution, contact marketing@speedcast.com. About Speedcast International Limited Speedcast International Ltd (ASX: SDA) is the largest provider of remote communications and IT services in the world. Speedcast's fully managed service is delivered via a leading global, multi-access-technology, multi-band and multi-orbit network of 70+ satellites and an interconnecting global terrestrial network, bolstered by extensive on the ground local support from 40+ countries. This global "network of networks" allows customers to fully rely on the most robust, integrated infrastructure available in the market for their mission critical applications. Speedcast is uniquely positioned as a strategic business partner, tailoring communications, IT and digital solutions to meet unique customer needs and enable business transformation. Speedcast extends its managed services through differentiated technology offerings including cyber-security, crew welfare, content solutions, data and voice applications and network systems integration services. With a passionate customer focus and a strong safety culture, Speedcast serves more than 2,500 customers in over 140 countries in Maritime, Energy, Mining, Enterprise, Media, Cruise, NGOs and Government. Learn more at www.speedcast.com. Social Media: Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook Speedcast is a trademark and registered trademark of Speedcast International Limited. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective owners. 2018 Speedcast International Limited. All rights reserved. Contact Information: Toni Lee Rudnicki Vice President, Global Marketing Speedcast International Ltd ToniLee.Rudnicki@Speedcast.com +1-832-668-2634 Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/610079/Speedcast_International_Ltd_Logo.jpg ZURICH-SCHLIEREN, SWITZERLAND / ACCESSWIRE / October 15, 2018 / Molecular Partners AG (SWX: MOLN), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company pioneering the use of DARPin therapeutics to treat serious diseases, is hosting its 2nd R&D update on "Building Tomorrow's Breakthroughs." When: Thursday, December 6, 2018 Check-In & Lunch 11:30am - 12:00pm ET Presentations and Q&A 12:00pm - 2:30pm ET Where: The Yale Club 50 Vanderbilt Avenue New York, NY 10017 Discussion topics will include: Development strategy for MP0250 in multiple myeloma and update on clinical trials in NSCLC and multiple myeloma update on clinical trials in NSCLC and multiple myeloma Advancement of immuno-oncology pipeline Research strategy and new research programs of the company Latest clinical data on Allergan-licensed abicipar A detailed agenda, including speakers and presentation titles as they are confirmed, can be found on the respective Molecular Partners' R&D Day 2018 website ahead of the event. This event is intended for institutional investors, sell-side analysts, investment bankers, and business development professionals. Space is limited: Please RSVP by emailing Susan A. Noonan at susan@sanoonan.com. Webcast information: For those who are unable to attend in person, a live webcast and replay will be accessible on the company's website, along with the accompanying presentation slides. About the DARPin Difference DARPin therapeutics are a new class of protein therapeutics opening an extra dimension of multi-specificity and multi-functionality. DARPin candidates can engage more than 5 targets at once, offering potential benefits over those offered by conventional monoclonal antibodies or other currently available protein therapeutics. The DARPin technology is a fast and cost-effective drug discovery engine, producing drug candidates with ideal properties for development and very high production yields. With their good safety profile, low immunogenicity and long half-life in the bloodstream and the eye, DARPin therapeutics have the potential to advance modern medicine and significantly improve the treatment of serious diseases, including cancer and sight-threatening disorders. Molecular Partners is partnering with Allergan to advance clinical programs in ophthalmology, and is advancing a proprietary pipeline of DARPin drug candidates in oncology and immuno-oncology. The most advanced global product candidate is abicipar, a molecule currently in phase 3, in partnership with Allergan. Several DARPin molecules for various ophthalmic indications are also in development. The most advanced DARPin therapeutic candidate wholly owned by Molecular Partners, MP0250, is in phase 2 clinical development for the treatment of solid tumors and hematological tumors. MP0274, the second-most advanced DARPin drug candidate owned by Molecular Partners, has broad anti-HER activity; it inhibits HER1, HER2 and HER3-mediated downstream signaling via Her2, leading to induction of apoptosis. MP0274 is currently in phase 1. Molecular Partners is also advancing a growing preclinical pipeline that features several immuno-oncological development programs. DARPin is a registered trademark owned by Molecular Partners AG. About Molecular Partners AG Molecular Partners AG is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company that is developing a new class of therapies known as DARPin therapeutics. With a management team that includes many of the founding scientists, the company continues to attract talented individuals who share the passion to develop breakthrough medicines for serious diseases. Molecular Partners has compounds in various stages of clinical and preclinical development and several more in the research stage, with a current focus on oncology and immuno-oncology. The company establishes research and development partnerships with leading pharmaceutical companies and is backed by established biotech investors. For more information regarding Molecular Partners AG, go to www.molecularpartners.com. For further details, please contact: Dr. Patrick Amstutz, CEOpatrick.amstutz@molecularpartners.comTel: +41 (0) 44 755 77 00 Thomas Schneckenburger, IR Europe thomas.schneckenburger@molecularpartners.com Tel: +41 (0) 44 755 5728 Susan A. Noonan, IR USA susan@sanoonan.com Tel: +1 212 966 3650 Lisa Raffensperger, International Media lisa@tenbridgecommunications.com Tel: +1 617-903-8783 SOURCE: Molecular Partners AG View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/525301/Molecular-Partners-Invites-Investors-to-Participate-in-its-2018-RD-Day Regulatory News: In conformity with market best practices, Air Liquide (Paris:AI) announces today that its Pre-Quarterly Sales Communication document for Q3 2018 is available on the company's corporate website under the "Investors" section: https://www.airliquide.com/investors/third-quarter-2018-revenue This quarterly document aims to assist in the financial modeling of the Group's performance. The third quarter 2018 sales will be published on October 24, 2018 _______________________________________ The world leader in gases, technologies and services for Industry and Health, Air Liquide is present in 80 countries with approximately 65,000 employees and serves more than 3.5 million customers and patients. Oxygen, nitrogen and hydrogen are essential small molecules for life, matter and energy. They embody Air Liquide's scientific territory and have been at the core of the company's activities since its creation in 1902. Air Liquide's ambition is to lead its industry, deliver long term performance and contribute to sustainability. The company's customer-centric transformation strategy aims at profitable growth over the long term. It relies on operational excellence, selective investments, open innovation and a network organization implemented by the Group worldwide. Through the commitment and inventiveness of its people, Air Liquide leverages energy and environment transition, changes in healthcare and digitization, and delivers greater value to all its stakeholders. Air Liquide's revenue amounted to 20.3 billion euros in 2017 and its solutions that protect life and the environment represented more than 40% of sales. Air Liquide is listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange (compartment A) and belongs to the CAC 40, EURO STOXX 50 and FTSE4Good indexes. www.airliquide.com Follow us on Twitter @airliquidegroup View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005670/en/ Contacts: Air Liquide Investor Relations Aude Rodriguez, +33 (0)1 40 62 57 08 Jerome Zaman, +33 (0)1 40 62 59 38 or Corporate Communications Media Relations: +33 (0)1 40 62 58 49 Airliquide-media@airliquide.com Prodware Netherlands, part of the Prodware Group, has just recently acquired Ctac's Microsoft Dynamics activities Regulatory News: Prodware Netherlands' September acquisition marks Prodware's (Paris:ALPRO) willingness to strengthen its digital footprint. The move brings Prodware additional offerings while reinforcing its market-ready portfolio of innovative solutions intended for the trading, non-profit and manufacturing verticals. Prodware's unique value proposition, powered by Microsoft Dynamics technology and expertise, is now strengthened with this recent acquisition. It will contribute in delivering performance and new business growth paths for our customers. Prodware's strong commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction ensures continuity for our new customers. Ctac's valued Microsoft-ready professionals will enhance Prodware's Microsoft Dynamics knowledge base while serving and satisfying new and existing customers in the Netherlands. "Microsoft welcomes consolidation in the Microsoft Dynamics 365 channel, as both the size of customers that choose the Dynamics platform and the scope of projects increase, integral expertise on the solutions is needed. We welcome partners that offer full platform innovative solutions with strong added-value helping customers embrace and tackle the challenges of digital transformation. Prodware's acquisition of a division of Ctac will further empower Prodware's existing and future customers by delivering a value proposition which spans from business consulting to managed services." Jan Brouwer, Business Group Lead Dynamics, Microsoft The Netherlands "We are a knowledge company but most of all we are customer minded and we warmly welcome our new professionals and customers. With Ctac's Dynamics division now on board we will continue to create and transform Microsoft solutions for our customers with as much passion as expertise leveraging these new synergies. We are looking forward with full confidence to possible further collaboration with Ctac in the market." Rob Sanders, Prodware Country Manager Next publication: 2018 half-yearly results: Tuesday, 16 October 2018, after close of trading. About Prodware Emboldened by three decades of solid experience and know-how in the field of IT innovation we have always thrived on delivering value and expertise to our customers worldwide. Whether enabling ambitious Cloud strategies, artificial intelligence driven decision-making tools or IoT applications, Prodware keeps paving the way to innovation. Prodware has embraced technology advances and breakthroughs helping companies step into the future by building the business models of tomorrow across the manufacturing, retail distribution, professional services and finance verticals. The Prodware group is a global company with regional offices in 15 countries with close to 1300 employees generating 168 M in annual revenue in 2017. Prodware SA is listed on Euronext Growth and is eligible for the FCPI investment fund and the PEA/PME share savings plan. More information: www.prodware.nl and www.prodware-group.com EURONEXT GROWTH (formerly ALTERNEXT) ISIN FR0010313486 ALPRO FTSE 972 IT services Prodware is FCPI-eligible A responsible company, Prodware is a member of the Global Compact. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005598/en/ Contacts: PRODWARE Stephane Conrard Chief Financial Officer Tel: +33 (0)9 79 99 90 00 investisseurs@prodware.fr or PRESS Gilles Broquelet CAP VALUE Tel: +33 (0)1 80 81 50 01 gbroquelet@capvalue.fr or Prodware Netherlands B.V. Rob Sanders, telefoon +31 418 683 500 +31 6 55480072 Country Manager Prodware Nederland rob.sanders@prodware.nl (AMF Autorite des Marches Financiers) Regulatory News: Genkyotex (Paris:GKTX) (Brussels:GKTX): Genkyotex shares ISIN code FR00011790542 Euronext Paris Brussels Date Number of shares making up the share capital Number of voting rights September 30, 2018 78,204,326 Theoretical number of voting rights(1): 78,204,326 Number of voting rights exercisable at a shareholders' meeting(2): 78,136,837 (1) In accordance with Article 223-111 of the AMF's General Regulation, this number of shares is calculated based on all shares carrying the right to vote, including those stripped of voting rights. (2) Less shares stripped of voting rights. About Genkyotex Genkyotex is the leading biopharmaceutical company in NOX therapies, listed on the Euronext Paris and Euronext Brussels markets. A leader in NOX therapies, its unique therapeutic approach is based on a selective inhibition of NOX enzymes that amplify multiple disease processes such as fibrosis, inflammation, pain processing, cancer development, and neurodegeneration. Genkyotex's platform enables the identification of available small-molecules that selectively inhibit specific NOX enzymes. Genkyotex is developing a pipeline of first-in-class product candidates targeting one or multiple NOX enzymes. The lead product candidate, GKT831, a NOX1 and NOX4 inhibitor is evaluated in a phase II clinical trial in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC, a fibrotic orphan disease) and in an investigator-initiated Phase II clinical trial in Type 1 Diabetes and Kidney Disease (DKD). A grant from the United States National Institutes of Health (U.S. NIH) of $8.9 million has been awarded to Professor Victor Thannickal at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) to fund a multi-year research program evaluating the role of NOX enzymes in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic lung disease that results in fibrosis of the lungs, the core component of the program will be to conduct a Phase 2 trial with the GKT831 in patients with IPF. This product candidate may also be active in other fibrotic indications. Its second product candidate, GKT771, is a NOX1 inhibitor targeting multiple pathways in angiogenesis, pain processing, and inflammation, currently undergoing preclinical testing. Genkyotex also has a versatile platform well-suited to the development of various immunotherapies (Vaxiclase). A partnership has been established with Serum Institute of India Private Ltd (Serum Institute) and could generate approximately 150 million in future revenues for Genkyotex, before royalties on sales. For further information, please go towww.genkyotex.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005691/en/ Contacts: Genkyotex LOS ANGELES, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The most characteristic feature of humanity is its creativity. Whether it's art or technology, people feel a constant urge to create. Unfortunately, not everybody has the time nor the right conditions to make use of their talent. (Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/754058/Dream_Island.jpg ) That is the objective behind the creation of Dream Island - a new international ideological and lifestyle initiative, aiming to spread creativity around the world, connect people sensitive to beauty and help talented artists and creators to get them the recognition they deserve. "Dream Island is a project under which niche, unique and inspiring artists receive comprehensive support - substantive, business, marketing and sales - thanks to which they can fulfill their dream and sail to the wide waters of the market." - reads the project description on Kickstarter. The idea for Dream Island was conceptualized in 2010 by Jakub Olejniczak, a young entrepreneur who, while traveling through Indonesia, had faced the hardships of being a smalltown artist. "If you look around, you'll find many creative people who cannot follow their passion due to income problems and lack of support needed to fulfill their ideas and projects," says Jakub. "Our goal is to reach out to those who have the talent and the determination, help them and make an impact on the world." Over the past few years, the project was under development and had its first collaborations with creators - new clothing lines, songs & music videos, accessories - which can be funded and backed by users on their Kickstarter page. Where is Dream Island now? Dream Island has launched a fundraising campaign today using Kickstarter - Click here to see what they have to offer. Funds gathered during a 30-day period will be used to finish the Dream Island platform - a unique site for artists and people interested in their works. The portal will help them promote their works around the world, sell them, connect with sponsors, and receive substantive, marketing, business, and sales support. "Every one of us has a family member or a friend who has the talent and skill to make something beautiful, yet was never able to pursue that road" says Bart Lukowiak, CTO. "We want that to change, because everyone deserves a fair chance. If you believe that as well, join us and take part in shaping our future." For more information on the Dream Island Kickstarter project: Kickstarter: HERE Website: HERE Facebook: HERE LinkedIn: HERE Media Contact: Bartosz Lukowiak Email: contact@dreamisland.com Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Token (BIT10) gives everyday investors access to 10 cryptocurrencies with one simple investment, rebalanced monthly with a low $5 minimum and no fees SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PR Newswire/ -- Abra , the first and only all-in-one cryptocurrency wallet and exchange, today announced the ability for anyone, anywhere to invest in BIT10, a new token that tracks the professionally-managed Bitwise 10 Large Cap Crypto Index through a partnership with San Francisco-based Bitwise Asset Management, the leading provider of cryptocurrency indexes. The Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Token (BIT10), listed exclusively on Abra, gives investors a simple way to get exposure to a set of the 10 largest assets that currently make up 80% of the cryptocurrency market. This set is screened according to Bitwise's rigorous and transparent index methodology , which ensures assets meet liquidity, security, and robustness requirements. Each month, the set of 10 coins is rebalanced by Bitwise, adding and removing coins to adjust to the constantly changing market. Starting today, anyone around the world can invest in the new BIT10 token through the Abra app. There's a low $5 minimum, no restrictions on when you can buy or sell, and no fees on transactions. The BIT10 gives retail investors a simple way to benefit from the diversification and rebalancing of index investing. "We created the BIT10 token to allow greater access to cryptocurrency investing by making the experience simple and accessible," said Bill Barhydt, Abra Founder and CEO. "Through partnerships like this one with Bitwise, Abra has created an unprecedented opportunity for the everyday person to start investing in crypto." "Index investing is extremely popular in stocks, bonds, and crypto because it gives investors diversified exposure without having to constantly monitor news and try to predict which assets will be most valuable," said Bitwise CEO Hunter Horsley. "So far in the crypto space, index investing has only been available to institutions and accredited investors. We're thrilled for that to be changing today with the BIT10 on Abra, which is available to anyone." How BIT10 Token Works BIT10 is only accessible through the Abra app. The cost of each BIT10 token reflects the value of the 10 coins in the index. Like other cryptocurrencies, BIT10 can be purchased in fractional amounts, so investors can decide which amount works best for them and enjoy low minimum buy-ins ($5). The price of each BIT10 token is based on a real-time price feed of the Bitwise 10 Large Cap Crypto Index provided by Bitwise. The methodology of the index is publicly available to read and is actively maintained by Bitwise. The composition of the assets in the index, and subsequently the exposure of the BIT10, is rebalanced on a monthly basis in accordance with the methodology's rules which include a variety of requirements related to liquidity, security, and trading volume. The composition of BIT10 will be published on Abra and will reflect the monthly rebalancing update of the index by Bitwise. Using Abra's successful stablecoin model on the backend, BIT10 positions are held in multi-signature smart contracts on the Bitcoin or Litecoin blockchain. Once invested, Abra and the user are entering into a smart contract that effectively pegs the asset invested (either fiat currency or cryptocurrency) to the same amount of BIT10 tokens. Abra will get a real-time price feed from Bitwise Asset Management (again according to their published methodology) and the BIT10 investor will see the market movement up or down reflected in the price of their BIT10 tokens. This method of using smart contracts to peg asset values to one another is a proven technology that is what currently powers the backend of the Abra app. Now, instead of trading fiat currency for cryptocurrency or for other synthetic currencies, BIT10 investors can use the same technology to easily invest in larger portions of the crypto market, all through one crypto asset. Another big advantage to Abra's technology is that it is all based on a non-custodial wallet , which cuts out the need for third parties and gives the user more control. How to Invest in BIT10 Getting started with Abra is easy. Simply download the app from the Google Play or Apple Store and set up an Abra wallet . From there, users can fund the wallet via bank transfer, credit card or other crypto assets to get started. Once funds have been added, start investing in BIT10 or any of Abra's 28 supported cryptos. About Abra Abra is the first and only all-in-one global app offering a true crypto exchange and digital wallet --making cryptocurrency investing simple. Abra empowers consumers to buy and hold 28 cryptocurrencies and 50 fiat currencies on a single app. Exchanges between multiple cryptocurrencies or fiat are quick, easy, and safe. Plus, with the Abra app, consumers can manage all crypto investments in one screen. Abra was founded in 2014 by Bill Barhydt, a veteran in the cryptocurrency space and an early Netscape employee. Investors include American Express Ventures, First Round Capital, HCM of Foxconn Group, Arbor Ventures, Lerer Hippeau, RRE Ventures, Silver8 Capital and others. About Bitwise Asset Management Founded in 2017, Bitwise Asset Management pioneered the first cryptocurrency index fund and is the leading provider crypto indexes and index funds. The team is based in San Francisco and combines modern software expertise with decades of asset management experience, coming from firms including Facebook, Wealthfront, BlackRock, JPMorgan, US Commodity Funds, Goldman Sachs, and ETF.com. Bitwise is backed by leading institutional investors and is a partner to high net worth individuals, financial advisors, family offices, multi-family offices, investment managers and institutions in navigating the crypto asset space. Bitwise develops funds, indexes, models, research, and other services. For more information, visit www.bitwiseinvestments.com About Bitwise Index Services Bitwise Index Services, LLC is a subsidiary of Bitwise Asset Management. Bitwise Index Services develops cryptocurrency indexes and conducts research in the area of cryptocurrency investing. Bitwise makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, regarding the advisability of investing in Abra Cryptocurrency-based Software Contracts Product(s). Bitwise's only obligation is the licensing of the Index which is determined, composed and maintained by Bitwise without regard to any product offering. Bitwise disclaims liability to any party for any errors or omissions in the Index, for any inaccuracy in the data on which the Bitwise Products are based, and for any mistakes, errors, or omissions in the calculation and/or dissemination of the Abra Cryptocurrency-based Software Contracts Product(s) nor shall it be under any obligation to advise any person of any error therein. Bitwise and the Bitwise Indexes are the service marks of Bitwise and are being used with the permission of Bitwise. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/754023/Abra_screenshot.jpg NEW YORK, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- ABANA, the preeminent US organization for finance professionals and institutions with interest in the Middle East and North Africa, honored David M. Rubenstein, Co-Founder and Co-Executive Chairman of The Carlyle Group, at a gala event at The Plaza Hotel in New York City on October 1st2018. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/736868/ABANA_Logo.jpg ) (Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/753361/Rubenstein_Al_Mubarak_and_Mamdani.jpg ) Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Abu Dhabi's Mubadala Investment Company, said: "It was my pleasure to introduce David Rubenstein as he received the 2018 ABANA Achievement Award. David's work, spanning several decades, has helped develop the investment and asset management industry across the MENA region, with Carlyle as one of the most established investment partners for many regional institutions." ABANA Chair Mahmoud Mamdani added: "David's conscientious stewardship of his clients' assets moved his relationships from purely transactional to ones based on partnerships, friendship, and mutual success-and helped establish The Carlyle Group as a thought partner for institutional investors. Beyond his impressive business accomplishments, his work ethic, intellectual curiosity and personal commitment to a range of philanthropic activities set a high bar for the rest of us, encouraging us to look beyond our day jobs and think more broadly about the impact of our work and our personal legacies." Accepting the award, Rubenstein said, "The Middle East has some of the world's most sophisticated investors. I am honored to accept this award, which, I believe is a reflection of the many successful relationships Carlyle has formed with individuals and institutions in the Middle East in the past 25 years. I look forward to deepening our ties to the region in the years to come and using private capital to create value for investors in the Middle East." At the close of the evening, Mamdani observed, "This evening was truly inspiring for our members and guests. In particular, David's encouragement for each of us to reflect on how we can help to improve US appreciation of the welcoming and rich culture of the Middle East, as well as his advice to find ways to contribute to the betterment of our countries and societies-as he so famously has-was an inspiration that I expect to have a lasting impression beyond tonight." Among past recipients of ABANA's Achievement Award are Ahmad Al Sayegh, Laurence Fink, Carlos Ghosn, Hutham S. Olayan, Mohammed Ali Alabbar, Bader Al Sa'ad, Muhammed Al-Jasser, Mohamed El-Erian, Faisal Al-Ayyar, Lubna Olayan, Richard Debs and Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal. To download more picture please go to theABANA Achievement Dinner photos About ABANA ABANA is the preeminent US organization for finance professionals and institutions with interest in the Middle East and North Africa. ABANA is a nonprofit association with a diverse network of professionals who work in commercial and private banking, asset management, real estate, private equity, venture capital, consulting, legal and other fields related to the financial services industry. It is best known for its robust calendar of events, meetings and discussions that provide members with new professional connections, access to timely business intelligence and direct contact to other global business leaders. http://www.abana.co Capital increase of 30.0m to accelerate the development of its product portfolio Initial public offering price set at 7.25 per share Oversubscribed capital increase allowing to raise 30.0m, which may be increased to a maximum of 32.5m if the over-allotment option is fully exercised Market capitalisation of approximately 144.1m (following the capital increase) Strong support from historical investors and partners (CM-CIC Innovation, BNP Paribas Developpement, Seventure Partners) and from TEVA First trading day on Euronext Paris on Monday October 8th Regulatory News: This document may not be published, distributed or circulated, either directly or indirectly, in the United States, Canada, Japan or Australia MedinCell (Paris:MEDCL), a technological pharmaceutical company that develops a portfolio of long-acting injectable products in various therapeutic areas, announced today the success of its initial public offering on the Compartment C of the regulated market Euronext in Paris ("Euronext Paris"). "The potential of our products, in development, our vision and our powerful business model have enabled us to gather a solid basis of international and French investors, either generalists, healthcare specialists or socially responsible focused,"says Christophe Douat, Chairman of MedinCell's Executive Board. "This success confirms the commitment and the tenacity of the entire MedinCell team. It will enable us to accelerate our development, with most of the capital increase intended to expand our product portfolio to increase our impact on global health Reminder of the reasons for the initial public offering The initial public offering of MedinCell on Euronext Paris is intended to provide MedinCell with additional resources to finance its development plan and to become a major global actor for long-acting injectable treatments. MedinCell expects to use the net proceeds of the Offering as follows: the development and expansion of its product portfolio (funding of formulation research activities and preclinical and clinical phases, including external studies and staff costs) for approximately two-thirds of the net proceeds of the Offering; accelerating the development of its technology platform to other applications for approximately one-fifth of the net proceeds of the Offering; the potential partial repayment of the bonds subscribed by TEVA up to a maximum of one-tenth of the net proceeds of the Offering, in accordance with its contractual commitments, it being however specified that TEVA did not make such request within the timeframe initially set. In the absence of such a request from TEVA, the balance of the net proceeds of the Offering will be mainly allocated to the first objective mentioned above. Availability of the prospectus Copies of the prospectus approved by the AMF on September 14, 2018 under the number 18-434 consisting of the registration document ("document de base") registered by the AMF on September 4, 2018 under the number I.18-062, a securities note (including a summary of the prospectus) are available free of charge upon request from MedinCell's head office (3 rue des Freres Lumiere, 34 830 Jacou, France) and on the MedinCell (investors.medincell.com) and AMF (www.amf-france.org) websites. About MedinCell MedinCell is a pharmaceutical company that develops a portfolio of long-acting injectable products in various therapeutic areas by combining its proprietary BEPOtechnology with active ingredients already known and marketed. Through the controlled and extended release of the active pharmaceutical ingredient, MedinCell makes medical treatments more efficient, particularly thanks to improved adherence, i.e. adherence with medical prescriptions, and to a significant reduction in the quantity of medication required as part of a one-off or chronic treatment. The BEPO technology allows to control and guarantee the regular delivery of a drug at the optimal therapeutic dose for several days, weeks or months starting from the subcutaneous or local injection of a simple depot of a few millimeters, fully bioresorbable. Based in Montpellier, MedinCell currently employs approximately 100 people representing over 25 different nationalities. Risk Factors The public's attention is drawn to Chapter 4 Risk factors of the document de base registered with the AMF and on Chapter 2 Risks factors related to the offering of the note d'operation MedinCell security identification codes Name: MEDINCELL MEDINCELL ISIN Code: FR000404065605 FR000404065605 Ticker: MEDCL MEDCL Compartment: Euronext Paris (Compartment C) Euronext Paris (Compartment C) Sector classification: 4573 Biotechnology Financial intermediaries Bryan, Garnier Co and Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, act as Joint Global Coordinators and Joint Bookrunners. Allegra Finance acts as financial advisor to the issuer. Definitive Offering details Offering price The price for the Open Price Offer (the " OPO ") and the Global Placement is set at 7.25 per share. ") and the Global Placement is set at 7.25 per share. On this basis, MedinCell's post-money market capitalisation will amount to approximately 144.1m after capital increase, based on a number of 19,878,372 shares. Size and proceeds from the Offering 4,137,931 new shares were issued through the Offer The gross proceeds amount to approximately 30.0m (and to approximately 24.0m excluding TEVA's subscription of 20% of the Offering by offsetting debt) Breakdown of the shares subscribed via the Offering (excluding Over-allotment Option) 3,902,086 new shares allocated to the Global Placement (representing approximately 28.3m and approximately 94% of the total number of offered shares) 235,845 new shares allocated to the OPO (representing approximately 1.7m and approximately 6% of the total number of offered shares), corresponding to the total demand in connection with the OPO. Orders A1 and A2 will be executed at 100% Breakdown of the ownership structure after the Offering (to the Company's knowledge) On completion of the Offering (excluding over-allotment option), and after ORAs' conversion, MedinCell's shareholding will be as follows: Shareholders Number of shares Ex Ante % capital Ex Ante Subscription to the Offer Conversion of the ORAs* Number of shares Ex Post % capital Ex Post Anh Nguyen 1,998,243 13.8% 0 0 1,998,243 10.1% Sabine Nguyen 2,322,300 16.0% 0 0 2,322,300 11.7% Total Nguyen Family 4,320,543 29.8% 0 0 4,320,543 21.7% Christophe Douat 609,060 4.2% 0 0 609,060 3.1% Nicolas Heuze 322,226 2.2% 0 0 322,226 1.6% Jaime Arango 25,001 0.2% 0 0 25,001 0.1% Managers 699,602 4.8% 0 0 699,602 3.5% Franck Sturtz 1,187,200 8.2% 0 0 1,187,200 6.0% Other members of the Supervisory Board 111,290 0.8% 0 0 111,290 0.6% Total Executive Board Supervisory Board Managers 2,954,379 20.4% 0 0 2,954,379 14.9% Employees 2,371,878 16.4% 0 0 2,371,878 11.9% CM-CIC Innovation 894,568 6.2% 648,276 34,604 1,577,448 7.9% BNP Paribas Developpement 0 0.0% 413,793 523,533 937,326 4.7% Seventure Partners Funds 0 0.0% 550,345 700,704 1,251,049 6.3% Former employees and consultants and affiliated 3,879,299 26.8% 0 0 3,879,299 19.5% Other 60,933 0.4% 0 0 60,933 0.3% Total Free Float 0 0.0% 2,525,517 0 2,525,517 12.7% including TEVA 0 0.0% 827,586 0 827,586 4.2% TOTAL 14,481,600 100% 4,137,931 1,258,841 19,878,372 100% * Conversion of the ORAs after a 25% premium on the nominal amount of the ORAs. Note: the total number of shares not subject to lock-up commitments represents 16.7% of the post-Offering capital. A shareholders' agreement not constituting a concerted action was entered into by all the Company's historical shareholders prior to the initial public offering. This agreement provides, in particular, for mechanisms organizing the future liquidity of the securities held by these shareholders. Over-allotment option The Over-allotment option represents a maximum of 2.5m, i.e. a maximum number of additional new shares that can be issued, which would bring the amount of the Offer to 32.5m, i.e. a maximum of 346,259 additional new shares (the "Over-allotment Option"). This Over-allotment Option may be exercised in part or in full until November 2, 2018 (included). Lock-up commitment of the existing shareholders, holders of BSA and BSPCE, TEVA, and mandatory convertible bonds ("ORA") From the date of the prospectus and for a period that expires 360 days following the settlement-delivery date of the Offering, for the integrality of their shares, subject to certain usual exceptions, it being understood that this lock-up undertaking covers all the shares held on the settlement-delivery date of the Offering, including the Shares resulting from the redemption of the ORA, but excluding the New Shares subscribed within the Offering. All shares subscribed by TEVA within the Offering will be subject to the same lock-up commitment as other existing shareholders of MedinCell, including CM-CIC Innovation and BNP Paribas Developpement (i.e. 360 days following the settlement-delivery date of the initial public offering). The Company's lock-up commitment From the signing of the Underwriting Agreement and for a period that expires 180 days following the settlement-delivery date of the Offering subject to certain usual exceptions. Stabilization Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank (or any entity acting on its behalf), acting as the stabilization agent (the "Stabilization Agent"), in the name and on behalf of the Joint Global Coordinators and Joint Bookrunners, may (but is in no case bound to) carry out stabilization actions in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, in particular EU Regulation No. 596/2014 of April 16, 2014 on market abuse, and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 of March 8, 2016 (the "Delegated Regulation"). It is to be noted that there is no assurance that such operations will be launched and, in any event, an end may be brought to these operations at any time, without notice. The purpose of stabilization measures is to support the market price of shares. This may affect the market price of the shares and may lead to setting a market price higher than in the absence of such measures. Should they be implemented, such measures may be carried out at any time for a 30-calendar day period from the date the Offering Price is set, i.e., according to the indicative timetable, up until and on November 2nd, 2018 (included). If the Over-Allotment Option is exercised in whole or in part, the Company will publish a press release. The Stabilization Agent will inform the competent market authorities and the public in accordance with Article 6 of the Delegated Regulation. During the stabilization period, the Stabilization Agent will ensure appropriate publication of the details on all stabilization operations at the latest at the end of the seventh day of trading that follows the execution of said operations. In the framework of the Offering, the Joint Global Coordinators and Joint Bookrunners may over-allot up to the number of shares covered by the Over-Allotment Option, increased, if applicable, by a number of shares representing not more than 5% of the size of the Offering (excluding the exercise of the Over-Allotment Option), in accordance with Article 8 (b) of the Delegated Regulation. In accordance with Article 7.1 of the Delegated Regulation, stabilization operations may not take place at a price that is higher than the Offering Price. Indicative timetable October 5, 2018 Settlement of the Offering Repayment of ORAs October 8, 2018 Commencement of trading for the Company's Shares on Euronext Paris (on a single listing line entitled "MEDCL") November 2, 2018 Deadline for the exercise of the Over-Allotment Option End of the potential stabilization period Forward-looking Statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements. These statements do not constitute guarantees regarding the future performance of MedinCell. This forward-looking information covers the future outlook, growth and commercial strategy of MedinCell and is based on the analysis of future result forecasts and estimates of amounts that cannot yet be determined. By nature, forward-looking information involves risks and uncertainties, as it relates to events and depends on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. MedinCell draws your attention to the fact that forward-looking statements provide no guarantee of future performance and that its actual financial position, results and cash flow, as well as changes in the sector in which MedinCell operates, may differ significantly from those proposed or suggested by the forward-looking statements contained in this document. Moreover, even if MedinCell's financial position, results, cash flow and changes in the sector in which MedinCell operates were to be in accordance with the forward-looking information contained in this document, these results or changes may not be a reliable indicator of MedinCell's future results or developments. A description of events that could have a material adverse impact on MedinCell's business, financial position or results, or on its ability to achieve its targets, is given in Chapter 4 "Risk Factors" of the Document de base Disclaimer No communication or other information related to this transaction or to MedinCell may be transmitted to the public in a country in which any approval or registration is required. No steps to such end have been taken or will be taken by the Company in any country in which such steps would be required (other than France). This press release does not constitute an offer or a solicitation to sell or subscribe requiring a prospectus within the meaning of Directive 2003/71/EC of the European Parliament and Council dated 4 November 2003, as amended (the "Prospectus Directive"). With respect to the member states of the European Economic Area other than France (the "Member States") having implemented the Prospectus Directive into law, no action has been or will be taken in order to permit a public offer of the securities which would require the publication of a prospectus in one of such Member States. As a result, the securities of MedinCell may not and will not be offered in any Member State other than France, except in accordance with the exemptions set forth in Article 3 of the Prospectus Directive. This press release must not be published, released or distributed, directly or indirectly, in the United States, Australia, Canada or Japan. This press release and the information contained herein do not constitute an offer to sell or subscribe, nor the solicitation of an order to purchase or subscribe, securities in such countries. This press release does not constitute or form part of an offer of securities or a solicitation for purchase, subscription or sale of securities in the United States. Securities may not be offered, subscribed or sold in the United States without registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act",) and other applicable state securities law, except pursuant to an exemption from registration. MedinCell shares have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act, and MedinCell does not intend to undertake a public offering of its securities in the United States. This press release is not an invitation nor an inducement to engage in investment activity for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended ("FSMA"). This press release is directed only at (i) persons outside the United Kingdom, (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the "Order"), (iii) persons referred to in Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (high net worth entities, non-registered associations, etc.) and (iv) other persons to whom this document may be lawfully communicated (all persons listed in (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) above being referred to as "Relevant Persons"). The securities of MedinCell described herein are available only to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with Relevant Persons. Any person who is not a Relevant Person must not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. The release, publication or distribution of this press release in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by laws or regulations. Persons in such jurisdictions into which this press release is released, published or distributed must inform themselves about and comply with such laws or regulations. Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, acting as Stabilization Agent, may, for a period of 30 days following the date of public disclosure of the offering price (i.e., according to the indicative time schedule, to October 27, 2018 inclusive) (but not under any circumstances), in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations, in particular those of Delegated Regulation No 2016/1052 of the European Commission of March 8, 2016 supplementing Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of the European Parliament European Union and the Council and concerning the conditions applicable to buyback programs and stabilization measures, carry out stabilization operations in order to stabilize or support the price of MedinCell shares on the regulated market of Euronext Paris. In accordance with Article 7 of Delegated Regulation No 2016/1052 of the European Commission of March 8, 2016, stabilization operations may not be carried out at a price higher than the offer price. Such interventions may affect the price of the shares and may result in the determination of a higher market price than would otherwise prevail. Even if stabilization operations were carried out, Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank could, at any time, decide to discontinue such operations. The information will be provided to the competent market authorities and to the public in accordance with Article 6 of the abovementioned Regulation. Pursuant to the provisions of Article 8 of the abovementioned Regulation, Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, acting on behalf of the underwriters, may make over-allotments in connection with the offer up to the number of shares covered by the over-allotment option, plus, if applicable, 5% of the offer (excluding exercise of the over-allotment option). Information to Distributors Solely for the purposes of the product governance requirements contained within: (a) EU Directive 2014/65/EU on markets in financial instruments, as amended ("MiFID II"); (b) Articles 9 and 10 of Commission Delegated Directive (EU) 2017/593 supplementing MiFID II; and (c) local implementing measures (together, the "MiFID II Product Governance Requirements"), and disclaiming all and any liability, whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise, which any "manufacturer" (for the purposes of the MiFID II Product Governance Requirements) may otherwise have with respect thereto, the New Shares offered in the global offering have been subject to a product approval process, which has determined that the New Shares are: (i) compatible with an end target market of retail investors and investors who meet the criteria of professional clients and eligible counterparties, each as defined in MiFID II; and (ii) eligible for distribution through all distribution channels as are permitted by MiFID II (the "Target Market Assessment Notwithstanding the Target Market Assessment, distributors should note that: the price of the New Shares may decline and investors could lose all or part of their investment; the New Shares offer no guaranteed income and no capital protection; and an investment in the New Shares is compatible only with investors who do not need a guaranteed income or capital protection, who (either alone or in conjunction with an appropriate financial or other adviser) are capable of evaluating the merits and risks of such an investment and who have sufficient resources to be able to bear any losses that may result therefrom. The Target Market Assessment is without prejudice to the requirements of any contractual, legal or regulatory selling restrictions in relation to the global offering. Furthermore, it is noted that, notwithstanding the Target Market Assessment, the Joint Bookrunners will only procure investors who meet the criteria of professional clients and eligible counterparties. For the avoidance of doubt, the Target Market Assessment does not constitute: (a) an assessment for any particular client of suitability or appropriateness for the purposes of MiFID II; or (b) a recommendation to any investor or group of investors to invest in, or purchase, or take any other action whatsoever with respect to the New Shares. Each distributor is responsible for undertaking its own target market assessment in respect of the New Shares and determining appropriate distribution channels. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005862/en/ Contacts: MedinCell David Heuze Communication leader david.heuze@medincell.com +33 (0)6 83 25 21 86 or NewCap Louis-Victor Delouvrier / Alexia Faure Investor relations medincell@newcap.eu +33 (0)1 44 71 94 94 or NewCap Nicolas Merigeau Media relations medincell@newcap.eu +33 (0)1 44 71 94 94 55 French Companies Recognized as CES 2019 Innovation Honorees The Consumer Technology Association (CTA)TM hosted the sixth annual CES Unveiled Paris today, making several announcements and shining a spotlight on the latest tech innovation. Co-located for the first time with the Mondial Paris Motor Show, CES Unveiled Paris gathered innovative exhibitors, media and industry professionals to experience the latest tech trends and products expected at CES 2019 that will change our world for the better. Owned and produced by CTA, CES 2019 will run January 8-11, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. During the event, CTA Executive Vice President of CES Karen Chupka announced 55 French companies selected as CES 2019 Innovation Honorees. Selected Honorees included GEOFLEX in the vehicle intelligence and self-driving category and Pixminds honored in the gaming category. "CES Unveiled Paris highlights the innovative spirit fueling Europe's dynamic tech market, and the French companies recognized as this year's CES Innovation Award honorees represent the future of technology," said Chupka. "The products and services honored today reflect the ingenuity driving our industry forward and improving the way we live, work and play." The remaining Innovation honorees will be announced at CES Unveiled New York on November 8, 2018. The full list of Honorees will be posted online at CES.tech and showcased at CES 2019, January 8-11. CTA President and CEO Gary Shapiro also announced today that Dr. Lisa Su, president and CEO of AMD, will deliver a keynote at CES 2019. Dr. Su joins IBM CEO Ginni Rometty as confirmed CES 2019 keynote speakers, with additional speakers to be announced in the coming weeks. Showcasing the latest technology products and celebrating European innovation, CES Unveiled Paris was the largest event since its inaugural debut in 2013. The event hosted 1,051 attendees from 44 countries and regions, and featured more than 76 exhibitors. Now a full-day event, and in collaboration with the Connecting Leaders Club, CES Unveiled Paris debuted the Executive Forum on Innovation, with programming focused on emerging trends including mobility, energy and environment and artificial intelligence. More than 20 speakers were featured, including executives from Axa, Accenture, Google, Salesforce and Valeo, as they discussed the future of innovation, including trends expected at CES this January. CES 2019 is the world's most important and influential event. The 2019 event will showcase life-changing technology across every major industry, featuring 4,500 exhibitors across 2.75M net square feet (260K net square meters) of exhibit space. CES provides access to the very latest transformative tech such as 5G connectivity, artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, smart home, smart cities, sports, machine intelligence and more. CES is also one of the largest displays of vehicle technology in the world and was recently named as USA Today's 10 Best Auto Shows. The 2019 show will feature more than 150 vehicle tech companies, including eight automakers, featuring the latest concept cars and connected vehicles. Areas new to CES 2019 include the Tourism Marketplace, as well as the recently announced Resilience area, focused on technologies that keep the world healthy, safe, warm, fed and secure in the face of adversity. Registration for CES 2019 is now open. For the latest exhibitor news and show announcements, visit CES.tech. High-definition video b-roll of CES is available for easy download on CESbroll.com. See exclusive photos from the CES show floor, keynotes, conference sessions, events and award ceremonies in the CES photo gallery About CES: CES is the world's gathering place for all who thrive on the business of consumer technologies. It has served as the proving ground for innovators and breakthrough technologies for 50 years-the global stage where next-generation innovations are introduced to the marketplace. As the largest hands-on event of its kind, CES features all aspects of the industry. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)TM, it attracts the world's business leaders and pioneering thinkers. Check out CES video highlights. Follow CES online at CES.tech and on social. About Consumer Technology Association: Consumer Technology Association (CTA) is the trade association representing the $377 billion U.S. consumer technology industry, which supports more than 15 million U.S. jobs. More than 2,200 companies 80 percent are small businesses and startups; others are among the world's best-known brands enjoy the benefits of CTA membership including policy advocacy, market research, technical education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CTA also owns and produces CES the world's gathering place for all who thrive on the business of consumer technologies. Profits from CES are reinvested into CTA's industry services. UPCOMING EVENTS Innovate Celebrate Register October 15-17, Boston, MA October 15-17, Boston, MA CES Unveiled New York November 8, New York, NY November 8, New York, NY CES Unveiled Las Vegas January 6, Las Vegas, NV January 6, Las Vegas, NV CES 2019 Register January 8-11, Las Vegas, NV January 8-11, Las Vegas, NV CES Asia 2019 June 11-13, Shanghai, China View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005856/en/ Contacts: Consumer Technology Association Teresa Hsu, 703-907-5259 thsu@CTA.tech www.CES.tech or Justin Siraj, 703-907-7415 jsiraj@CTA.tech www.CES.tech Advanced Protection from Violent or Medically Unstable Persons, Solving Problems with Older Shield Types Sarnia, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2018) - Lamperd Less Lethal, Inc. (OTC Pink: LLLI), an innovation leader and manufacturer of advanced security solutions for law enforcement, military and security agencies worldwide, has been receiving new orders for the company's Interlocking Riot Shields from multiple police departments in the United States. Additionally, the company was requested by police officials to design a new Extraction Shield incorporating features that will solve problems with older models in use which often result in serious injuries for the officers using them. In response, the Lamperd research and development team has designed a new Extraction Shield, ideally shaped and sized in clear polycarbonate for use in transferring violent or medically unstable persons in tight spaces. The Lamperd Extraction Shield is also equipped with padded handles that can pivot and flex in response to pressure so as to avoid the situations with existing shields in use which have been causing broken ribs and other serious injuries. This new product will protect police or other emergency response personnel form impact injuries and bodily fluid contamination while doing transfers to and from vehicles, small rooms or other places where larger shields are not practical. The new Lamperd Extraction Shield is ready for commercial introduction at this time and available in any quantities needed. Photos, demonstration videos and more detailed information for all the Lamperd shield products may be reviewed on the company website at this direct link:http://lamperdlesslethal.com/products/. Regarding Lamperd's advanced shield product line, CEO Barry Lamperd stated, "We are very concerned about preventing injuries to emergency responders in the many dangerous situations they face. I am pleased that orders for our proven Interlocking Riot Shields have been increasing and also looking forward to getting our new Extraction Shields out into use as soon as possible to everyone who needs them." Lamperd is currently conducting training courses for law enforcement officers in the United States, Canada or any NATO country. These courses are administered by Lamperd's VP of Training, Ed Bogats, Jr., PhD, who is highly qualified and experienced in the field of law enforcement training. Recently the company has conducted training for US police officers from multiple departments in seven different states. A series of new photos and videos from these training courses, which included focus on the proper use of Lamperd protective shields, can be viewed on the company website here: http://lamperdlesslethal.com/police-military-training/. About the Company Lamperd Less Lethal, Inc. (LLLI) is a developer, manufacturer and international sales company for advanced less lethal weapons, ammunition and other security products marketed to police, correctional, military and private security forces. The company sells over 300 different products including small & large caliber projectile guns, flash grenades, pepper spray grenades, 37mm & 40mm launching systems and interlocking riot shields. Lamperd also offers advisory services and hands-on training classes run by highly accredited instructors. This press release contains forward-looking statements relating to Lamperd Less Lethal, Inc. Lamperd Less Lethal, Inc. undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes in future operating results. Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statements: This news release includes forward-looking statements. While these statements are made to convey to the public the company's progress, business opportunities and growth prospects, readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements represent management's opinion. Whereas management believes such representations to be true and accurate based on information and data available to the company at this time, actual results may differ materially from those described. The company's operations and business prospects are always subject to risk and uncertainties. Important factors that may cause actual results to differ are and will be set forth in the company's periodic filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Contact: Lamperd Less Lethal, Inc. Barry Lamperd, President & CEO (519) 344-4445 Company Website: www.lamperdlesslethal.com Lamperd Less Lethal on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/lamperdlesslethal Lamperd Less Lethal on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/llli_lamperd_lesslethal Lamperd Less Lethal on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/llli_lesslethal Barry Lamperd on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/lamperd_llli Winners to be Honored at 2018 International Emmy World Television Festival in New York NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- JCS International today announced the winners of the 2018 JCSI Young Creative Award, now in its second year. The three winners, selected by a prestigious panel of jurors with a depth of experience in film, TV and media, created one-minute shorts on the 2018 theme, "Stand Up for Peace." The winning films are TeaShirt (India), Peace is Action (Indonesia) and Mr. Peace (India). The blue-ribbon panel of jurors gathered at the International Academy's headquarters in New York on September 27 to select the winners from the 24 finalists. Programs entered this year span 39 countries. The jurors were: Michal Grayevsky, President, JCS International; First Lady of Panama Lorena Castillo Garcia De Varela; Patrick Connolly, SVP of Programming for AMC/SundanceTV Global; Amy Hargreaves, Actress & Producer; Mozhan Marno, Actress & Producer; Ben Pyne, Independent Consultant, Pyne Media; Stephen Segaller, VP Programming, WNET Channel 13 and Daniel Wiedemann, Bureau Chief, Americas Office, TV Globo. The three winners will be flown to New York and receive their award on Saturday, November 17, at the International Emmy World Television Festival, in front of the 2018 International Emmy Awards Nominees. They will also be invited to attend the International Emmy Awards Gala on Monday, November 19th. "JCS International is proud to support and honor young artists who stand up for peace through creativity," said Michal Grayevsky, President of JCS International and a Board Member of the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. "We are so thankful to the International Academy for taking the Young Creatives competition to new heights." 2018 JCSI YOUNG CREATIVES AWARD WINNERS: TeaShirt By: Raj Dutta Raj Dutta Country: India Summary: When two men are fighting over a small conflict, a young boy steps in and reminds them about being peaceful. This film can teach everyone that no matter how horrible a situation gets, we always have the choice for peace. Peace is Action By: Puti Puar Puti Puar Country: Indonesia Summary: It's common for us to associate peace with tranquility or calmness. However, peace is a kind of energy that needs to show and spread with action, although it is not always welcomed. This is a 1-minute animation about how we can stand up for peace through action, including resisting online bullying or joining a strike for peace. Mr. Peace By: Shubham Upreti Country: India Summary: This story revolves around peace, a real life character living in the modern world is trying to find his value in a fast moving world in which everyone has forgotten him. About JCSI JCS International is a global media company headquartered in New York City. JCSI provides a wide range of services, from strategic communications and public relations to content creation and policy research. JCS-a privately held Ronald S. Lauder company-is committed to delivering measurable results and has a proven track-record working with high-profile, prestigious clients and organizations. For further inquiries, please contact: JCS International,office@mg745fifth.com. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/754148/Jurors.jpg AHF's Latin American/Caribbean Bureau now provides lifesaving HIV/AIDS care and services in 10 of the 41 countries that AHF operates in globally as well as in the U.S. Territory of Puerto Dedicated network of AHF global partner organizations are key in rapid scale up of lifesaving treatment; AHF's prior benchmark-500,000 lives in care-was reached in November 2015, just three short years ago AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the largest global AIDS organization, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2017 and now operates in 41 countries, is honored to announce that it has surpassed a remarkable milestone in its history: as of the start of this month, AHF is now providing HIV/AIDS medical care and/or services to more than one million patients-1,004,228 worldwide as of last week-in the US, Europe, Africa, Latin America/Caribbean and Asia. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005939/en/ To mark its milestone of one-million HIV/AIDS patients receiving care and services worldwide, AHF will roll out a celebratory new '1,000,000 Lives in Care' billboard campaign starting in Los Angeles and later, in South Florida as well as in other locations and countries. (Graphic: Business Wire) AHF's Latin American/Caribbean Bureau, one of AHF's five global bureaus, now provides lifesaving care and services in 10 of the 41 countries that AHF operates in globally including Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Mexico and Peru as well as in the U.S. Territory of Puerto Rico "Over one-million lives in AHF's care-the most momentous achievement in the 31-year history of AIDS Healthcare Foundation and an achievement proudly shared by many, many dedicated staff, board members, partner organizations, volunteers, family, friends-and patients," said Michael Weinstein, AHF's President. "Just three short years ago, we marked 500,000 patients in care. To now reach over twice that number: one-million lives-or nearly five-percent of the 20.5 million HIV/AIDS patients in care and on treatment globally- is simply incredible. I congratulate and thank all who helped us reach this remarkable milestone today, but remind people there is still much more work to be done. As we carry on, I am confident that the leadership of AHF's domestic and global programs has the capability and the will to take us onward and upward to bring more and more people into the lifeboat of care and treatment over the next five years." "To me, reaching one-million patients in AHF's care reflects the tremendous effort, compassion, commitment and teamwork from all of our AHF teams around the world. We are all in constant movement with new challenges every day, but our mission helps guide us to find ways to move ahead," said Dr. Patricia Campos, AHF Latin America Caribbean Bureau Chief. "As I think about these one-million lives today, I also think of the moments of happiness that so many patients have shared with us: that could be around today with their families, children, partners and friends; they can enjoy life and work because of treatment and care. I also share how proud the entire AHF Latin American and Caribbean Bureau and our countries are that we have contributed to reaching this point. There are still many, many people who need treatment and care, more now in the middle of these new circumstances in our region and countries. Latin America is facing new challenges at this time and we know we cannot stop, that we should-and will-move forward." "Reaching one-million patients in care is a momentous mark for AHF and for its Southern Bureau as well. We live in an area ripe with health inadequacies and stigma, and AHF fights both of those inequalities at all levels to assure all of our patients receive the compassionate and cutting-edge care they deserve to lead healthy and fulfilling lives," added Michael Kahane, Bureau Chief for AHF's Southern Bureau. "Truly heartfelt congratulations to all of the AHF staff, board members, volunteers, partners and our patients for contributing your best to help AHF meet this incredible milestone," said Cynthia Davis, MPH, Assistant Professor and Program Director, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science and Chair of AHF's Board of Directors. "On behalf of the AHF Board of Directors, we thank you and will celebrate this achievement with you as we lead in to the observation of World AIDS Day-this year marking its 30th year-later this year." In November 2013, AHF kicked off '20X20,' a collective global advocacy campaign to try to get 20 million people living with HIV or AIDS worldwide in care and on treatment by the year 2020. At the time, AHF made a commitment to getting one-million of those 20-million on treatment by 2020-a historic benchmark passed this month-and a commitment achieved two years earlier than 2020. Previous AHF Treatment Benchmarks 500,000 lives in care under AHF, a mark celebrated on November 13, 2015 under AHF, a mark celebrated on 250,000 lives in care , a mark celebrated on November 27, 2013 , a mark celebrated on 100,000 lives in care, a mark celebrated on April 15, 2009 AHF celebrated the earlier milestone of 250,000 patients in care in November 2013. In the two short intervening years until the announcement of 500,000 patients in November 2015, AHF doubled the number of patients it reached. Prior to that, AHF marked 100,000 patients in care worldwide on April 8, 2009, a time when AHF operated in just 21 countries and with only 65 global treatment clinics total worldwide. Today, AHF provides medical care and services in over 545 global treatment clinics in 40 other countries outside the U.S. AHF to Roll Out '1,000,000 Lives in Care' Billboard Campaign in the US and to Some Global Sites To mark its one-million patient milestone, AHF will roll out a celebratory new '1,000,000 Lives in Care' billboard campaign later this month starting in Los Angeles and later, in South Florida. The campaign will also be shared with some global countries and sites. The inspiring artwork, created by Jason Farmer, Senior Director of AHF Worldwide, features an image of white numbers making up '1,000,000' on a backdrop of a crowd of thousands and thousands of people giving the billboard an artistic pointillist effect-one that underscores and heightens to concept on one-million lives now under AHF's care. In addition, AHF produced a short video commemorating the one-million patient milestone. To view, click here: AHF's Early History AHF began operations in 1987 as the AIDS Hospice Foundation by a group of activists in response to the urgent need to provide hospice services to patients dying of AIDS on the streets of Los Angeles. By July 1990, the organization had changed its name to the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, as the need for ongoing medical care for HIV/AIDS patients grew. When the advent of lifesaving antiretroviral medications ushered in a treatment revolution in 1996, AHF began supplying these medications to patients for free without guarantee of reimbursement and at great financial risk. In 2002, at the invitation of local South African activists, AHF opened its first free HIV/AIDS clinic outside the U.S. in this hard-hit country. In 2004, AHF declared its pledge to reach 100,000 people worldwide with its services, and by 2009, AHF reached that major milestone. Today, in addition to its clinics and treatment centers, AHF also operates a chain of 48 AHF Pharmacy outlets in 12 states and runs managed care and disease management programs for people with AIDS or HIV in Florida and California under AHF's Positive Healthcare umbrella. Through AHF's Public Health Division, AHF operates one of the largest community-based free HIV testing programs in the US (186,223 free tests in the US in 2017). In addition, over four-million free HIV tests were done globally by AHF in 2017 (4,233,744 tests). AHF also operates 21 Wellness Centers in nine states (and seven additional Wellness Centers in four other countries) and also operates two AHF Dental Clinics in South Florida and Southern California. The AHF Research Division has 23-years of experience with antiretroviral (ARV) studies. AHF Countries: THE AMERICAS-11 countries, includingArgentinaBrazil, Bolivia, ChileDominican RepublicGuatemalaHaitiJamaicaMexico andPeruas well as the previously cited United States) AFRICA-13 countries, includingEthiopiaKenyaLesothoMalawi, Mozambique, NigeriaRwandaSierra LeoneSouth AfricaEswatini (Swaziland), Uganda ZambiaandZimbabwe ASIA-9 countries, includingCambodiaChinaIndia, IndonesiaMyanmarNepal, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam EUROPE-8 countries, includingEstoniaGreeceLithuaniaNetherlandsPortugalRussia,Ukraineand the United Kingdom In addition, AHF operates 63 free HIV/AIDS healthcare centers in 15 states and the District of Columbia and the U.S. Territory of Puerto Rico, including in California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Texas, Washington [state] and Washington, DC AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the largest global AIDS organization, currently provides medical care and/or services to over 1,000,000 individuals in 41 countries worldwide in the US, Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, the Asia/Pacific Region and Eastern Europe. To learn more about AHF, please visit our website: www.aidshealth.org, find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/aidshealth and follow us on Twitter: @aidshealthcare. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005939/en/ Contacts: AIDS Healthcare Foundation LATIN AMERICA/CARIBBEAN Dr. Patricia Campos Lopez,(+521) 333 482 9207 mobile Latin America/Caribbean Bureau Chief patricia.campos@aidshealth.org or USA/INTERNATIONAL Ged Kenslea,Senior Director, Communications +1.323.308.1833 work +1.323.791.5526 mobile gedk@aidshealth.org or Marin Austin,Director of Communications +1.323.308.1821 x 1853 work +1.323.333.7754 mobile marin.austin@aidshealth.org or USA/Southern Bureau Imara Canady, 954.952.0258 mobile Regional Director, Communications Community Engagement Imara.Canady@aidshealth.org During New York Climate Week, the largest baking company in the world joins RE100, an initiative comprising large companies committed to the use of 100 percent renewable electricity. Grupo Bimbo is the first company in Mexico and Latin America to assume this global commitment All Grupo Bimbo products will be manufactured with renewable energy MEXICO CITY, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Grupo Bimbo, the largest baking company in the world, announced its commitment to use 100 percent renewable energy for its electricity throughout the world by 2025. The company is the first company in Mexico and Latin America to join RE100, a global, collaborative initiative of The Climate Group, together with CDP. RE100 brings together the most influential companies in the world who commit to the use of electric energy from 100 percent renewable sources. The announcement was made during New York Climate Week, where Grupo Bimbo committed to supplying clean energy in the 32 countries where it operates, through one or more of the different schemes for energy solutions such as Power Purchase Agreements (PPA), the purchasing of Renewable Energy Certificates (REC or GO), investing in distributed generation (on site), and buying clean energy directly, among others. Daniel Servitje, President and CEO of Grupo Bimbo said, "Our commitment to convert our operation to 100 percent renewable energy is a major step toward our purpose of building a sustainable, highly productive, and deeply humane company. Having operations in 32 countries, this is a challenge we assume with the clear conviction and responsibility to contribute to a better planet for present and future generations." Adding to Servitje's position, Jorge Zarate, Vice President of Global Operations at Grupo Bimbo and the leader of the environmental initiative of the company, stressed, "As a global company, we are firmly committed to working every day with a high sense of environmental responsibility. This initiative is part of our strategy for renewable energy, which began in 2012 with the opening of the Piedra Larga wind farm and is consolidated with this important commitment." "Today, we are the first Mexican and Latin American Company to join RE100 and we are confident that many other companies in the region will join this important initiative," Zarate added. ThePiedra Larga Wind Farm supplies clean energy to company's plants and certain work centers throughout Mexico. This year, "Bimbo Solar" was launched in Mexico, with several systems using solar panels on rooftops. In April of this year, the company announced that by 2019 it would be 75 percent renewable worldwide after signing an agreement for a 100 megawatt windfarm, to make its United States operations 100 percent renewable electricity, achieving a total global reduction of 440,000 tons of CO 2 per year. These initiatives are added to others already in effect in countries such as Colombia and Spain. By joining RE100, Grupo Bimbo once again reinforces its commitment to the environment and to society, understanding its role as an agent for change to create long-term value with actions and policies aimed at protecting the planet and the wellbeing of all its inhabitants. Mike Peirce, Corporate Partnerships Director, The Climate Group, welcomed the commitment, saying, "This is an exciting first for RE100 as we expand our membership into new geographies like Mexico and Latin America. We congratulate Grupo Bimbo on its leadership in finding renewable energy solutions for each of its locations and hope to influence many more companies to come onboard." Grupo Bimbo's sustainability strategy concentrates its efforts along four lines of action related to environmental protection: reducing its carbon footprint; managing wastes; and natural capital. For further information on Grupo Bimbo's sustainability efforts, visit https://www.grupobimbo.com/en/sustaintability. About Grupo Bimbo Grupo Bimbo is the world's leader in the baking industry. It has over 141 thousand associates, in 2016 reached sales for 14.4 billion US dollars. It has 202 production plants and close to 1,800 sales centers strategically located in 32 countries around the world, within four continents. It produces over 13 thousand products under more than 100 umbrella brands of reknown prestige, in categories such as loaf bread, buns and toasted bread. It also has a wide distribution network in the countries where it is present, which is one of the largest in the American continent. Grupo Bimbo is listed in the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV) under the BIMBO ticker. Grupo Bimbo restates its commitment with the environment, through its environmental sustainability programs in all the countries where it has operations. For additional information on Grupo Bimbo, please visit: www.grupobimbo.com, Look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/GrupoBimbo and Twitter: @GrupoBimbo. CALGARY, Alberta, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Pembina Pipeline Corporation ("Pembina" or the "Company") (TSX: PPL; NYSE: PBA) announced today that its Board of Directors declared a common share cash dividend for October 2018 of $0.19 per share to be paid, subject to applicable law, on November 15, 2018 to shareholders of record on October 25, 2018. This dividend is designated an "eligible dividend" for Canadian income tax purposes. For non-resident shareholders, Pembina's common share dividends should be considered "qualified dividends" and may be subject to Canadian withholding tax. For shareholders receiving their common share dividends in U.S. funds, the October 2018 cash dividend is expected to be approximately U.S. $0.1481 per share (before deduction of any applicable Canadian withholding tax) based on a currency exchange rate of 0.7793. The actual U.S. dollar dividend will depend on the Canadian/U.S. dollar exchange rate on the payment date and will be subject to applicable withholding taxes. Pembina pays cash dividends on its common shares in Canadian dollars on a monthly basis to shareholders of record on the 25th calendar day of each month (except for the December record date, which is December 31st), if, as and when determined by the Board of Directors. Should the record date fall on a weekend or a statutory holiday, the effective record date will be the previous business day. The dividend payment date is the 15th of the month following the record date. Should the payment date fall on a weekend or on a holiday the business day prior to the weekend or holiday becomes the payment date. Pembina's Board of Directors also declared quarterly dividends for the Company's preferred shares, Series 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19 and 21. Series 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 21 preferred share dividends are payable on December 3, 2018 to shareholders of record on November 1, 2018. Series 15, 17 and 19 preferred share dividends are payable on December 31, 2018 to shareholders of record on December 17, 2018. Series Dividend Amount Preferred Shares, Series 1 (PPL.PR.A) $0.265625 Preferred Shares, Series 3 (PPL.PR.C) $0.293750 Preferred Shares, Series 5 (PPL.PR.E) $0.312500 Preferred Shares, Series 7 (PPL.PR.G) $0.281250 Preferred Shares, Series 9 (PPL.PR.I) $0.296875 Preferred Shares, Series 11 (PPL.PR.K) $0.359375 Preferred Shares, Series 13 (PPL.PR.M) $0.359375 Preferred Shares, Series 15 (PPL.PR.O) $0.279000 Preferred Shares, Series 17 (PPL.PR.Q) $0.312500 Preferred Shares, Series 19 (PPL.PR.S) $0.312500 Preferred Shares, Series 21 (PPL.PF.A) $0.306250 These dividends are designated "eligible dividends" for Canadian income tax purposes. For non-resident shareholders, Pembina's common share dividends should be considered "qualified dividends" and may be subject to Canadian withholding tax. Dividends on the preferred shares Series 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 21 are payable on the first day of March, June, September and December in each year, if, as and when declared by the Board of Directors to shareholders of record on the first day of the preceding month, or, if such payment or record date is not a business day, the next succeeding business day after the weekend or holiday. Dividends on the preferred shares Series 15, 17 and 19 are payable on the last day of March, June, September and December in each year, if, as and when declared by the Board of Directors to shareholders of record on the fifteenth day of the same month, or, if such payment or record date is not a business day, the next succeeding business day after the weekend or holiday. Conference Call and Webcast Details for Third Quarter 2018 Results Pembina will release its third quarter 2018 results on Thursday, November 1, 2018 after markets close. A conference call and webcast have been scheduled for Friday, November 2, 2018 at 8:00 a.m. MT (10:00 a.m. ET) for interested investors, analysts, brokers and media representatives. The conference call dial-in numbers for Canada and the U.S. are 647-427-7450 or 888-231-8191. A recording of the conference call will be available for replay until November 9, 2018 at 11:59 p.m. ET. To access the replay, please dial either 416-849-0833 or 855-859-2056 and enter the password 7697531. A live webcast of the conference call can be accessed on Pembina's website at www.pembina.com under Investor Centre, Presentation & Events, or by entering: https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/1652776/3F954F3630A028629E570FDCB6625739 in your web browser. Shortly after the call, an audio archive will be posted on the website for a minimum of 90 days. About Pembina Calgary-based Pembina Pipeline Corporation is a leading transportation and midstream service provider that has been serving North America's energy industry for over 60 years. Pembina owns an integrated system of pipelines that transport various hydrocarbon liquids and natural gas products produced primarily in western Canada. The Company also owns gas gathering and processing facilities and an oil and natural gas liquids infrastructure and logistics business. Pembina's integrated assets and commercial operations along the majority of the hydrocarbon value chain allow it to offer a full spectrum of midstream and marketing services to the energy sector. Pembina is committed to identifying additional opportunities to connect hydrocarbon production to new demand locations through the development of infrastructure that would extend Pembina's service offering even further along the hydrocarbon value chain. These new developments will contribute to ensuring that hydrocarbons produced in the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin and the other basins where Pembina operates can reach the highest value markets throughout the world. Pembina strives to provide sustainable, industry-leading total returns for our investors; reliable and value-added services for our customers; a net positive impact to communities; and a safe, respectful, collaborative and fair work culture for our employees. Pembina's strategy is to: Preserve value by providing safe, environmentally conscious, cost-effective and reliable services; by providing safe, environmentally conscious, cost-effective and reliable services; Diversify by providing integrated solutions which enhance profitability and customer service; by providing integrated solutions which enhance profitability and customer service; Implement Growth by pursuing projects or assets that are expected to generate cash flow per share accretion and capture long-life, economic hydrocarbon reserves; and by pursuing projects or assets that are expected to generate cash flow per share accretion and capture long-life, economic hydrocarbon reserves; and Secure Global Markets by understanding what the world needs, where they need it, and delivering it. Pembina is structured into three Divisions: Pipelines Division, Facilities Division and Marketing & New Ventures Division. Pembina's common shares trade on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges under PPL and PBA, respectively. For more information, visit www.pembina.com. Forward-Looking Information and Statements This news release contains certain forward-looking information and statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements") that are based on Pembina's current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends. In this news release, such forward-looking information and statements can be identified by terminology such as "should", "may", "will", "continue", "if", "to be", "expects", and similar expressions. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements, relating to future dividends which may be declared on Pembina's common and preferred shares, the dividend payments and the tax treatment thereof. These forward-looking statements are being made by Pembina based on certain assumptions that Pembina has made in respect thereof as at the date of this news release, regarding, among other things: the ability of Pembina and any required third parties to effectively engage with stakeholders; oil and gas industry exploration and development activity levels; the success of Pembina's operations and growth projects; prevailing commodity prices, margins, volumes and exchange rates; that Pembina's future results of operations will be consistent with past performance and management expectations in relation thereto; the continued availability of capital at attractive prices to fund future capital requirements relating to existing assets and projects, including but not limited to future capital expenditures relating to expansion, upgrades and maintenance shutdowns; that any third party projects relating to Pembina's growth projects will be sanctioned and completed as expected; that any required commercial agreements can be reached; that all required regulatory and environmental approvals can be obtained on the necessary terms in a timely manner; that counterparties to material agreements will continue to perform in a timely manner; that there are no unforeseen events preventing the performance of contracts; that there are no unforeseen material construction, integrity or other costs related to current growth projects or current operations; and prevailing interest and tax rates. Although Pembina believes the expectations and material factors and assumptions reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date hereof, there can be no assurance that these expectations, factors and assumptions will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned that events or circumstances could cause results to differ materially from those predicted, forecasted or projected. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not occur, which may cause actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and information. These known and unknown risks and uncertainties, include, but are not limited to: the regulatory environment and decisions; the ability of Pembina to raise sufficient capital (or to raise sufficient capital on favourable terms) to fund future expansions and growth projects and satisfy future commitments; failure to negotiate and conclude any required commercial agreements or failure to obtain project sanctioning; increased construction costs, or construction delays, on Pembina's expansion and growth projects; labour and material shortages; non-performance of agreements in accordance with their terms; the impact of competitive entities and pricing; reliance on key industry partners, alliances and agreements; the strength and operations of the oil and natural gas production industry and related commodity prices; the continuation or completion of third-party projects; actions by governmental or regulatory authorities including changes in tax laws and treatment, changes in royalty rates or increased environmental regulation; adverse general economic and market conditions in Canada, North America and elsewhere; construction delays; labour and material shortages; and certain other risks detailed from time to time in Pembina's public disclosure documents including, among other things, those detailed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Pembina's management's discussion and analysis and annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2017, which can be found at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by the above statements and speak only as of the date of this document. Pembina does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements or information contained herein, except as required by applicable laws. For further information: Investor Relations, Scott Arnold, (403) 231-3156, 1-855-880-7404, e-mail: investor-relations@pembina.com, www.pembina.com The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in its meeting on Wednesday approved minimum support prices (MSP) of Rabi crops New Delhi: The Government on Wednesday announced 6 percent hike in support price of wheat at Rs 1,840 per quintal, a move that will give farmers an additional income of Rs 62,635 crore and help contain their simmering discontent over high input cost and low sales realisation. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved higher minimum support price (MSP) for winter-sown or Rabi crops. The decision will help farmers earn an additional income of Rs 62,635 crore, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told reporters here after the meeting. The decision comes within months of announcing higher price for Kharif crops, when the government fulfilled its promise of giving farmers 50 percent more price than their cost of production. The Cabinet has approved a Rs 105 per quintal hike in wheat MSP to Rs 1,840 for 2018-19 season, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh said. The MSP of wheat was Rs 1,735 per quintal in the 2017-18 crop year. Singh said the MSP for all Rabi crops is higher than the cost of production ranging from 50-112 percent. As per the CCEA decision, the MSP of barley has been increased by Rs 30 per quintal to Rs 1,440 per quintal, while that of gram (Chana) by Rs 220 per quintal to Rs 4,620 per quintal. Masur's MSP has been raised by Rs 225 to Rs 4,475 per quintal, while the support price of rapeseed/mustard has been hiked by Rs 200 to Rs 4,200 per quintal. Safflower MSP has been increased by Rs 845 per quintal to Rs 4,945. The support price has been increased based on the recommendations of farm advisory body CACP (Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices) and is in line with the government's announcement to provide farmers a 50 percent profit over the cost of production. The Naresh Goyal-controlled Jet Airways is struggling to mop up funds to meet its payment obligations, including salaries to its over 16,000-strong workforce. Mumbai: After delay in paying pilots, engineers and senior management personnel, Jet Airways has delayed payment of salaries for September to other categories of employees, an airline source said on Wednesday. However, the full-service carrier said that while salaries were remitted as per schedule, the credit was likely delayed due to public holiday on Tuesday. The airline, partially owned by UAE national carrier Etihad Airways, has been grappling with the financial problems for quite some now. It has been struggling to mop up funds to meet its payment obligations, including salaries to its over 16,000-strong workforce. "We generally get our salary on the 1st of (every) month. Last month, the airline had paid to all employees except senior management, pilots and engineers on time. "But this time (September), they have failed to pay even to other categories of employees such as manager and above levels," the source said. The source said the employees in A1-A5, O2 and O3 grade, or whose salaries are up to Rs 75,000 per month, were paid on 1 October, while the rest of the staffers in the M2, M3, E1 and above grades have not been paid yet. "Salaries for all employees, excluding pilots, AMEs (Aircraft Maintenance Engineers) and the leadership, were remitted as per schedule, although its credit was likely delayed due to yesterday's public holiday," the airline said in a late evening statement. 2 October was a public holiday on account of Gandhi Jayanti. On 6 September, the airline informed senior employees that their salaries would be paid in two instalments till November. The salaries for August was to be paid in two instalments 50 percent by 11 September and the remaining by 26 September. Though the private carrier paid the first tranche on time, it could disburse only 50 percent amount of the second instalment on the designated date and deferred the payment of rest 50 percent to 9 October. Mumbai-bench of NCLT approved six directors, including Kotak Mahindra Bank MD Uday Kotak, former SEBI chairman GN Bajpai and ICICI Bank chairman GC Chaturvedi, to takeover the board The government on Monday seized control of debt-trapped Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services (IL&FS), superseding its board with one led by India's richest banker Uday Kotak, and vowed to stop further loan defaults. The Mumbai-bench of National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) approved six directors, including Kotak Mahindra Bank MD Uday Kotak, former SEBI chairman GN Bajpai and ICICI Bank chairman GC Chaturvedi, to take-over the board. Kotak was named as non-executive chairman of the new board on Monday. The other directors approved by the NCLT are retired IAS officers Malini Shankar and Vineet Nayyar, and veteran auditor Nandkishore. The new board has been directed to hold its first meeting on 8 October this year, and to submit a report on its finding and a roadmap before the bench by 31 October, the next date of hearing. The bench also issued a notice to IL&FS, directing it to respond to all points raised by the Union government in its plea by 15 October this year. The next hearing of the IL&FS case is on 31 October. The government dissolved the 15-member board of IL&FS following the company's recent defaults. Following are the 15 members that were sacked by the government according to The Economic Times. Sunil Behari Mathur - Non-Executive Chairman, IL&FS (Independent Director) Hari Sankaran - Vice Chairman & Managing Director, IL&FS Arun K Saha - Joint Managing Director & CEO, IL&FS Praveen Kumar Molri - Nominee Director, Life Insurance Corporation Of India Kiyoshi Fushitani - Nominee Director, Orix Corporation, Japan Harukazu Yamaguchi - Nominee Director, Orix Corporation, Japan Sanjeev Doshi - Nominee Director, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (AIDA) Bijendra Kumar Singhal - Nominee Director, Central Bank Of India Chalasani Venkat Nageswar - Nominee Director, State Bank Of India Ravindra Chandra Bhargava - Independent Director Michael Pinto - Independent Director Jaithirth Rao - Independent Director Rina Kamath - Independent Director Kiyokazu Ishinabe - Alternate Director To K Fushitani Ikuo Nakamura - Alternate Director To H Yamaguchi This is only the second time after Satyam Computer Services Ltd that the government has taken control of a company board. The government in 2009 superseded the board of Satyam. It nominated Deepak Parekh -banker, Kiran Karnik - former NASSCOM chief and C Achuthan - former SEBI member to Satyam's board. "The government stands fully committed to ensuring that needed liquidity is arranged for the IL&FS from the financial system so that no more defaults take place and the infrastructure projects are implemented smoothly," the Finance Ministry said in a statement in New Delhi. "Restoration of confidence" across markets and the financial system in IL&FS group "is of utmost importance for the financial stability of capital and financial markets". With inputs from agencies In only the second instance in nearly a decade, the government has superseded the management of IL&FS where state-owned LIC is a major shareholder. New Delhi: Possible redemption pressure on mutual funds and a scenario where 1,500 smaller NBFCs might face cancellation of licences due to inadequate capital were among the major concerns as the IL&FS crisis began to roil financial markets. These were among the factors highlighted by the corporate affairs ministry as it moved the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) seeking change in management of the crisis-hit IL&FS. Citing a confidential note, dated 30 September, from the Department of Economic Affairs, the ministry in its plea said there was a deep concern about possible collapse of the group and its impact on the economy. As per the note, there could be redemption pressure on asset management companies having Rs 2,800 crore worth exposure to IL&FS bonds from "corporate clients who have invested in this Rs 16 trillion debt MF industry", as per the petition filed by the ministry. Another concern was that in the wake of the IL&FS crisis, "as many as 1,500 smaller NBFCs may have their licences cancelled because these don't have adequate capital", it added. Following debt defaults by some group entities of IL&FS, there have been fears of liquidity crisis in the financial markets, promoting authorities, including the RBI, to emphasise that measures would be taken to ensure adequate liquidity in the system. In only the second instance in nearly a decade, the government has superseded the management of IL&FS where state-owned LIC is a major shareholder. The NCLT, on Monday, approved the government's request seeking change in management. A similar move was done in 2009 when the accounting scam came to light at Satyam Computer Services, then a leading software exporter. On Monday, the government said the leverage of IL&FS Group is "very high" and that it is involved in many infrastructure projects, including through equity and debt financing. "Any impairment in its ability to finance and support the infrastructure projects would be quite damaging to the overall infrastructure sector, financial markets and the economy, considering its systemically important nature. "The government stands fully committed to ensure that needed liquidity is arranged for the IL&FS from the financial system so that no more defaults take place and the infrastructure projects are implemented smoothly," it had said in a release. As per its latest balance sheet, IL&FS Group has infrastructure and financial assets exceeding Rs 1,15,000 crore and is presently facing tremendous debt pressure and struggling to service around Rs 91,000 crore in debt. In August, the Board of Directors had unanimously elected Ramon Laguarta, 54, to succeed Nooyi, 62, as Chief Executive Officer Pepsico's Indian-origin CEO Indra Nooyi, stepped down on Wednesday after 12 years at the helm of the global beverage giant. However, Nooyi will remain the chairman of the company until early 2019. In August, the Board of Directors had unanimously elected Ramon Laguarta, 54, to succeed Nooyi, 62, as Chief Executive Officer. Nooyi 's departure leaves only one woman of color among Fortune 500 CEOs. In her concluding remarks during PepsiCo's Third Quarter 2018 Earnings Conference Call on Tuesday, Nooyi said, "You know 12 years is a long time as a CEO, and even though I have a lot of fuel still left in my tank. I wanted to do something different with my life. Spend more time with my family and give the next generation in PepsiCo a chance to lead this great company." Here is all you need to know about Nooyi: Nooyi, a graduate from Madras Christian College and MBA from IIM Calcutta, oversaw a number of key restructurings during her 24 years' tenure at New York-headquartered food and beverage giant. She joined PepsiCo in 1994 and had an immediate influence on the company's strategic direction. She was instrumental in PepsiCo spinning off its Pizza Hut, KFC and Taco Bell restaurants for $4.5 billion. According to Fortune, under Nooyis leadership, PepsiCos revenue grew by 80 percent. Nooyi also pushed PepsiCo to shift from junk food toward healthier snacks and beverages, the report said. In her climb to the top, Nooyi had been at the forefront of several deals that reshaped PepsiCo. While she was chief financial officer, PepsiCo bought Quaker Oats and when she was vice president of corporate strategy, it spun off its interest in Pizza Hut, KFC and Taco Bell. However, it was after becoming CEO in October 2006, that Nooyi cemented PepsiCos dominance in the global snacks and drinks market - inking 80 tactical deals, including buying its bottling operations and the Naked juice brand. She has also bolstered its portfolio of healthier offerings, which now account for nearly half of its sales, compared with about 38 percent in 2006, better aligning its portfolio with evolving consumer tastes, according to Morningstar analyst Sonia Vora. More recently, Nooyi focused on reinvigorating sales of its marquee sodas by stepping up marketing efforts to win market share from Coca-Cola. As CEO for 12 years, she has boosted sales of the Mountain Dew and Gatorade maker to $63.5 billion, up 80 percent from when she started. The companys share price has risen 78 percent in the same period. She also saw off billionaire activist investor Nelson Peltzs efforts to spin off the companys drinks business from its more successful snacks division by offering his fund, Trian, a board seat in 2015 to make peace. The hedge fund exited its stake in 2016. With inputs from agencies The proposal is set to be put forward to the Cabinet of Economic affairs later in the evening, according to News18. The move also comes before the state Assembly elections, particularly Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. A decision to hike the minimum support price (MSP) on six rabi crops, including wheat, has been taken following the Kisan Kranti Yatra that took place near Delhi on Tuesday. The proposal is set to be put forward to the Cabinet of Economic Affairs (CCEA) later in the evening, according to News18. The move also comes months before the state Assembly elections, particularly in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh which have a significant farmers population. #BREAKING -- Decision taken to hike MSP on Rabi crops | @maryashakil with more details pic.twitter.com/yBJ5qAx1vW News18 (@CNNnews18) October 3, 2018 According to The Daily Pioneer, the Union Cabinet will consider the MSP of all five rabi crops and the recommendation is to increase them in the range of 2-21 percent from the last years MSPs. The report states that government plans to raise the MSP of wheat by Rs 1,735 to Rs 1,840 per quintal, an increase of six percent. The price of chana is likely to be raised from Rs 4,400 to Rs 4,620 per quintal, an increase of five percent. The announcement of the increase in the MSP of rabi crops is significant for the current season as the monsoon rainfall was 20% deficient in September leading to lower water levels. The government in July hiked the MSP of kharif crops. The MSP of paddy was hiked by a record Rs 200 per quintal that will cost the exchequer over Rs 15,000 crore, and help fulfil its poll promise to give farmers 50 percent more rate than their cost of production. On Tuesday, thousands of farmers marched towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, blocking traffic movement on arterial roads leading to the national capital. National highways leading to the capital were swamped with farmers who came in from places as far as Gonda, Basti and Gorakhpur in eastern Uttar Pradesh as well as the sugarcane belt of western Uttar Pradesh. The Kisan Kranti Yatra, which began from Tikait Ghat in Haridwar on 23 September, was joined by farmers from various parts of Uttar Pradesh. They carried banners of Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU), which gave the call for the march to press for a series of demands. Their list of demands include unconditional loan waiver for farmers, clearing of dues by sugar mills, higher prices for crops, free electricity for farms, to fix Minimum Support Price (MSP) and a cut in diesel prices. The government had said that the fixation of MSP would be done in the future. The government is silent on our demand for loan waiver, saying that the states had to take a decision at their level. Also, it said that fixation of MSP based on C2 input factor as per the Swaminathan Commissions recommendations will be done in future, BKU General Secretary Yudhvir Singh told IANS. The Ministry of Women and Child Development has sent in a proposal raising the age to report sexual abuse till 30 years, according to reports. The move comes nine months after WCD ministry stated that they will seek a change in the CrPC to allow filing of complaints of child sexual abuse many years after the crime. The Ministry of Women and Child Development has sent in a proposal raising the age to report sexual abuse till 30 years, according to reports. The move comes nine months after the WCD ministry stated that they will seek a change in the CrPC to allow filing of complaints of child sexual abuse many years after the crime. In an event, WCD minister Maneka Gandhi said that the age for lodging complaints will be raised to 30 years old now, according to reports. #BREAKING -- Child abuse victims can now complain when they grow up | @_pallavighosh with more details pic.twitter.com/x8mEXaJ4Y8 News18 (@CNNnews18) October 3, 2018 Gandhi on Tuesday came out in support of actor Tanushree Dutta who alleged that Nana Patekar harassed her on the sets of a film in 2008. Gandhi said that "harassment of any kind will not be tolerated". In an interview with Republic, Gandhi emphasised the need to start a campaign like #MeToo in India, "wherein whoever has ever been harassed should write to our campaign and we should investigate". She added that the National Commission of Women is going to register and investigate every complaint, having already solved several thousand such cases. In January, a survivor of child sexual abuse, a 53-year-old Indian-origin scientist from Canada, had asked for legislative amendments to allow victims to report such crimes even years later in a meeting with Gandhi. We are in the process of writing to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) asking them to amend Section 473 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). So, time limitation will go away, Secretary, WCD, RK Shrivastava, had said in February at a press meet. He said that the ministry will pursue the matter with the MHA as it has been receiving several complaints of incidents that have occurred many years ago. Section 468 of the CrPC lays down the time limitations for filing a complaint after an offence has taken place, also called the Statute of Limitations. If the offence is punishable with a fine then it needs to be reported within six months. A crime carrying a term not exceeding one year has a period of limitation of a year. If a crime is punishable between one and three years, then it has to be reported within three years and for anything beyond a three-year jail term, there is no time restriction for reporting the crime. Section 473 of the CrPC, to which the ministry has sought changes, allows a court to take cognisance of an offence even after the expiry of the period of limitation provided the delay has been properly explained or that it is necessary to do so in the interests of justice". With inputs from PTI Few months back, the Narendra Modi government had announced higher MSP for kharif crops to fulfil its promise of giving farmers 50 percent more price than their cost of production. New Delhi: Hailing the hike in the minimum support price (msp) of rabi crops as historic, BJP president Amit Shah Wednesday said that it will give unprecedented relief to farmers. Shah also took a dig at the previous governments, saying their schemes would be confined to files and manifestos but the Modi dispensation has been able to execute its schemes on the ground to the last word. "This decision of the Modi government will prove decisive in the progress of farmers," Shah said in the party statement. "Farmers' happiness and prosperity have been a priority for the Modi government since the day it assumed power," he said. Shah asserted that the Modi-led government is continuously working to double the farmers' income to make their life easier. "After kharif, the recent increase in the MSP of rabi crops will not only ensure better value to the farmers for their crops, but also will bring qualitative improvement in their lives," he said. Terming the decision to raise MSP for crops as a 'big relief' to farmers, the BJP chief reiterated that the Modi government is fulfilling its commitments and will continue to do so. The government Wednesday announced a 6 percent hike in wheat support price to Rs 1,840 per quintal and up to 21 percent increase in other rabi crops, a move that will give farmers Rs 62,635 crore additional income and help contain their simmering discontent over high input cost and low returns. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved higher MSP for six winter-sown or rabi crops. The decision comes a day after a huge protest by farmers in Delhi NCR to seek high support prices and loan waiver. Few months back, the government had announced higher MSP for kharif (summer) crops to fulfil its promise of giving farmers 50 percent more price than their cost of production. These measures are aimed at addressing farmers discontent ahead of the upcoming Assembly polls in key farm states and general elections 2019. A Habeas Corpus petition filed on behalf of Sudha Bharadwaj, one of the five rights activists arrested on 28 August in connection with the Bhima Koregaon case, before the Punjab and Haryana High Court has been withdrawn on Wednesday, with the liberty to take up other remedies as per law. The habeas corpus petition that was filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court on behalf of Sudha Bharadwaj one of the five rights activists arrested on 28 August in the Bhima Koregaon case was withdrawn on Wednesday, with the liberty to take up other remedies as per law. "We will approach the high court again through Sudha Bharadwaj either under Article 226 of the Constitution or Section 482 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. We will also file for a regular bail before the Pune sessions court," advocates RS Bains and Arjun Sheoran were quoted as saying by Bar and Bench. The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Wednesday expressed its inclination to dismiss the habeas corpus petition, given that a special leave petition in the matter has been filed before the Supreme Court. The bench, therefore, asked the counsels to withdraw the present habeas corpus petition, which was filed by Ankit Grewal on behalf of Bharadwaj, with liberty to seek remedies available in law. This comes the same say the Maharashtra government moved the Supreme Court, challenging the Delhi High Court's order ending the house arrest of Gautam Navlakha, another one of the five activists who were arrested by the Pune Police on 28 August. On Monday, the Delhi High Court had freed Navlakha from house arrest, five weeks after he, along with Bhardwaj, Vernon Gonsalves, Varavara Rao and Arun Ferreira, was arrested. The day the five activists were arrested, Justice Arvind Singh Sangwan of the Punjab and Haryana High Court had ordered that Bharadwaj remain under house arrest. However, he had stayed her transit remand to Pune till 30 August. A day after the arrests, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court on behalf of the five activists by historian Romila Thapar, economists Prabhat Patnaik and Devaki Jain, sociology professor Satish Deshpande and human rights lawyer Maja Daruwala against the police action. The plea calls for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to look into the arrests of the activists. On 28 September, the top court ruled that the house arrest of the five activists should continue for four more weeks. With a 2-1 majority, the bench had held that the investigative officers were permitted to continue with the inquiry, and that the accused have no say in seeking an investigation of their choice. The top court had also declined to constitute an SIT, saying that the accused were at liberty to pursue other appropriate remedies. "We don't wish to go into the facts of the case as it may create prejudice," Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar had said. The Pune Police had arrested the five activists on 28 August in connection with an FIR lodged after the Elgaar Parishad conclave on 31 December, which the police believe triggered the violence at Bhima Koregaon village near Pune on 1 January. With inputs from PTI Justice Ranjan Gogoi was appointed as the 46th Chief Justice of India (CJI) on Wednesday as he took oath in a swearing-in ceremony held in Delhi in the presence of President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi has his task cut out before him as the 46th head of Indian judiciary as the prelude to his appointment was overshadowed by his own reputation as a no-nonsense administrator, and the recent revolutionary Supreme Court judgments upholding civil liberty and citizens' rights. As Justice (retired) Dipak Misra handed over the baton to Gogoi, crucial and politically important cases like the Ayodhya land title dispute, the plea challenging the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, and Assam's National Register for Citizens case are pending to be taken to their conclusion. All eyes will remain on whether Gogoi focusses on their resolution before the 2019 Lok Sabha poll. Then there is the thorny administrative matters of running the country's highest judicial body, the ones in which Gogoi himself had criticised the former Chief Justice of being arbitrary and unfair. Here is a breakdown on what awaits CJI Gogoi in his almost 13 month long stint, due to end on 18 November, 2019. Master of the roster? Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, then the second-senior-most member of the Collegium, had participated in an unprecedented press conference of Supreme Court judges where he raised several problems that in his opinion were ailing the judiciary. However, at the heart of the matter remained the friction over allocation of key cases, and how then CJI, Misra decided the roster. The Supreme Court, later held that the CJI was indeed master of the roster and was entitled to allocate cases to whichever judge he presumes fit as part of his administrative duties. However, several questions were raised on the transparency or the so-called arbitrariness of the process, with the four dissenting judges insinuating that the senior-most judges were being kept away from key cases. Gogoi himself was vocal about the way a controversial case relating to the death of a CBI court judge BH Loya was allocated to a Supreme Court bench. It will be interesting to watch if at all Gogoi attempts to reform the set process or introduce any more transparency in the process. Massive backlog in cases Chief Justice Gogoi has indicated that one of the few things he looks forward to reform in the judiciary is the huge backlog of cases pending hearing. Speaking at a session on Monday, Gogoi said that pendency of cases is bringing a disrepute to the system. "This is a problem. I would request each of you to kindly give a thought to this and see how you can overcome this difficulty. I dont think the task is really . I have a plan and will unfold it and you are welcome to take part in that and participate in the process. While he is yet to reveal his 'plan' to bring down pendency in the courts, which stands at around 3.18 crore cases, he has had a resounding success in bridging the gap between the government and the public in terms of welfare schemes' distribution. As executive chairman of National Legal Service Authority (NALSA), Justice Gogoi spearheaded the program to hold legal service camps across the country wherein government departments set up stalls to highlight various welfare schemes and also made them available for the masses. A recent report released by NALSA said that around 43 lakh people have benefited from the camp. Moreover, his administrative experience as Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court might also help him tackle the issue of piling backlogs. During his stint at the Gauhati High Court, he had clubbed similar cases and heard them together, thus disposing of nearly 10,000 cases at a stretch. That could be one of the many ideas he has in mind, The New Indian Express reported. Ayodhya title suit Gogoi is also expected to take over Misra's court in the heavily politicised Ram Janmbabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suit hearing, which is expected to commence from 29 October. Gogoi will decide the three-judge bench which will hear the Ayodhya case, even if he himself chooses not to hear the matter which is always under intense media glare. Justices Ashok Bhushan and Abdul S Nazeer who heard the case along with former CJI Misra, by convention, could be part of the new bench, but Gogoi reserves the power as the master of the roster, to change the constitution of the bench. Article 35A Article 35A of the Indian Constitution is an article that empowers the Jammu and Kashmir state's legislature to define permanent residents of the state and provide special rights and privileges to those permanent residents. A matter which carries immense significance not only in the strife-torn Valley but rest of India, will come up for hearing under Gogoi's tenure as CJI. Given the sensitivity of the matter, Supreme Court taking one view over another can significantly change voters' perception ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, wherein the ruling NDA is likely to use the issue as a political agenda. Assam NRC Justice Gogoi has been heading the special Supreme court bench that is monitoring the updation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) meant for identifying illegal immigrants residing in Assam. Going forward, he will now have to ensure effective monitoring of the case. He will decide whether to allow ration cards to be adduced as evidence of citizenship of those excluded from the draft NRC. The case has high siginificance on Indian polity and the basic rights of Indian citizens. While politicians can already be seen using the NRC at election rallies to evoke emotions, their are thousands whose right to Indian citizzenship rests merely on the efficacy of the Supreme Court-monitored exercise. Other cases Appointment of Lokpal and fast-track courts to try tainted politicians and their functioning will be some of the issues for consideration before Gogoi. Gogoi had said that he will deal with public interest litigations (PIL) filed only by the poor, signalling his intention to roll-back judicial activism of recent years. He had also said that his priority would be to reduce the pendency of cases in the Supreme Court. Interestingly, as the CJI, Gogoi will also be heading the bench of the top court that, for the first time in its history, will face a camera inside the courtroom for live-streaming of the proceedings. As the outrage against sexual assault by men in positions of power within the Church continues, the role of those who are aware of the wrongdoings hasn't been examined Editor's note: This is a multi-part series that investigates sexual abuse in the Church and the institutions that it runs. Articles in the series rely on interviews with victims, abusers, those accused of abuse, church elders, parish members and state officials to examine the role of the three institutions that are critical to the issue: The Church, the community, and the State. As the outrage against sexual assault by men in positions of power within the Catholic Church like Theodore Edgar McCarrick and Franco Mulakkal continues, the role of those who are aware of the wrongdoings of these men hasn't been accorded the scrutiny it deserves. "When the highest person in charge of a place of worship is aware of a rape committed by a priest working under him, isn't it his responsibility to report this? Why didnt they take the side of my murdered daughter? Why did they side with the man who raped and killed her? These questions by a mother whose minor daughter was found dead in a church in Palakkad district on 23 July, 2013 led to charges being framed against a bishop and four priests belonging to the Coimbatore Diocese. Bishop Thomas Aquinas, Father Madalaimuthu, Father Kulandairaj, Father Lawrence and Father Melcure of the Coimbatore Diocese will have to face a court of law for voluntarily hiding information of sexual assault and murder of Fathima Sophia, who was found dead by Father Arockiaraj at Stanislaus Church in Pallakad district's Walayar. On the day of the incident, Shanthi Rosalin was visiting a relative who was sick and had left her daughter at home. In a couple of hours, she received a frantic call from Arockiaraj. He had known the family since Sophia had been a child. Calling from his church in Walayar, he kept referring to Sophia and hysterically repeating "konnitaen, konnitaen," she recalls. As she drove towards Walayar, he kept calling her and repeating this line. When she reached the police station, a tearful Arockiaraj was standing outside. He told her that he had heard choking noises from Sophia's room. When he rushed to her room, he saw that she had hanged herself, using her dupatta. He cut the dupatta and brought her down. While she was being taken to the hospital, she lost her life in his hands. On the insistence of Arockiaraj, Madalaimuthu and the SI-in-charge Ravindran, Sophia's mother Rosalin signed on a complaint drafted by Ravindran hours after the dead body of Sophia was found. "The complaint was in Malayalam and I couldn't read it. But they rushed me into signing this as they told me I could see my daughter's body only after signing this complaint," says Rosalin. This complaint eventually led to a cover-up of the crime for a year-and-a-half. The case was closed as a suicide. "For months after, everything was a blur," she says. Rosalin suffered a heart attack and was bedridden for close to a year. Canonical committee hides commission of rape and murder Weeks after the death, a canonical committee was constituted by Bishop Thomas Aquinas of Coimbatore to inquire into the role of Arockiaraj in the death of Sophia. During the hearings of the committee in August 2013, Arockiaraj had confessed that he had used the girl. The committee had initiated proceedings soon after to have him removed from his duties. For almost a year after this, Rosalin had no idea about either the committee or the role of Arockiaraj in her daughters death. It was only when Rosalin found a love letter suggesting a relationship between Arockiaraj and Sophia in the latter's book did the pieces start falling together. While Canon Law directs for committees to be constituted to look into incidents of wrongdoing, Father Joyce, director, Department of Catechism of the Ernakulam Angamally archdiocese insists that it is the responsibility of these committees and those at its helm to report crimes to authorities. "The law of the land precedes Canon Law. While processes within the Church to take the person to task can continue, the head of the diocese should immediately report such incidents to the police," he says. But this seldom happens, as events across the world in the recent past have shown. Titular Archbishop Carlo Vigano in his letters dated 22 August and 29 September alleged that Pope Francis, the highest in the Catholic Church hierarchy, and other cardinals at the Vatican were aware of the sexual assault and molestation charges against McCarrick. He alleged that they wilfully chose not to act. In her letter to the Vatican, the nun at the centre of the Kerala rape case has stated that she had informed Bishop Kallarangatt (the Bishop of the Palai Diocese), Bishop Vadakkel (the Bishop of the Ujjain Diocese) and Cardinal Mar George Alencheryy (head of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church) about the sexual assault committed by Franco Mulakkal, at least six months before she registered the FIR. "Only because they refused to take action against Franco did she go to the police," says Sister Nirupama, who was among the five nuns who led the protests at Ernakulam. The Catholic Church in India: Powerful and unaccountable Jessica Richard of the Indian Christian Women's Movement (ICWM) believes that the lack of accountability of the Catholic Church is due to the Church being one of the most resource-rich Christian institutions in the country. "The CSI church gets dragged into litigation all the time. So do other mainline churches. But the Catholic Church, especially in Kerala, has remained untouched due to their proximity with the ruling," says Jessica, adding that it's not the same with other Churches, even in cases of sexual assault. During a counselling session, 13 year old Elsa (name changed to protect identity) complained to Hema of a stomach pain. "On prodding further, I understood that she had been sexually assaulted by a pastor of her church," says Hema. Elsas mother worked as a helper at Peechi Church in Thrissur. Sanal K James, the pastor, would visit Elsas home on the pretext of summoning her mother for work. After she would leave, he would sexually abuse Elsa. He would also take her to his room whenever she accompanied her mother to the church and assault her. Hema informed the police. While recording her complaint, Elsa mentioned another person to suffer at the hands of Sanal James. A second FIR was registered. "Swift action was taken against the accused. He was arrested overnight and we completed the trial in less than three months," says Advocate Pious Mathew. When asked if the church to which the pastor belonged tried to stall proceedings, he replies, "The commander was present during the trial and informed the court that the pastor was removed from all duties. He provided us with documents that helped in establishing that Sanal James was a pastor." Sanal James was convicted by a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) court under both the cases in March 2016 and May 2017. He is currently serving a term of 40 years. Sanal James belonged to the Salvation Army, a protestant church. Olga Aaron from Tamil Nadu mentions that the power a church yields is directly proportional to who constitutes that order. "The Salvation Army can almost be seen as a Dalit Church. Almost all the members of this Church are from the Dalit community. The members of this Church or the Church itself have no power. There is no question of any of them escaping the law. But the Catholic Church on the other hand, is made up of dominant caste communities, majority of whom have political clout. How else could Franco evade a process of law for three whole months?" she asks. Collusion of the police and Coimbatore Diocese The same is true in the case of the cover up of Sophia's death. "The Coimbatore Diocese and the police were involved in this cover-up. The incident took place on 13 July but evidence was collected from the room only the next day. By then, Arockiaraj had removed her cell phone from the scene of crime and had cleaned up the room," says Rosalin. "When I found the letter written by Sophia about Arockiaraj, I went to the police station with it. But I was told that the case had been closed," she adds. The police had concluded that Sophia had mental health problems and had attributed this as a reason for her suicide. In fact, the reference to Sophias mental health problems and anger issues was made in the complaint drawn up by SI Ravindran. Rosalin had mentioned the calls made by Arockiaraj on the day of the incident and how she had no idea why her minor daughter was at Walayar without her knowledge to SI Ravindran. "But none of this was in the FIR. I wanted to know who was covering up the death of my daughter," says Rosalin. With this in mind, she started asking questions. When she found out about the canonical committee findings, she tried meeting Acquinas on multiple occasions, but he refused to meet her. She started making calls to Arockiaraj and others from the committee. "Arockiaraj confessed to having sexual relationship with Sophia. He also said that they had an argument and when he was trying to get her to keep quiet, he strangled her," says Rosalin, who recorded the conversation. Similarly she recorded conversations with the pastors present at the canonical committee where they acknowledged Arockiarajs confession. With these recordings, she tried approaching the police to reopen the case. When that didnt happen, she took part in a TV programe that conducted a sting operation on Arockiaraj. Rosalin met him at a bus stop where he acknowledged his guilt. After this episode was telecast, Rosalin came under attack. Her house was stoned. A protest was organised against her by the Coimbatore Diocese, blaming her for maligning the reputation of the Church. Relentless, she went back to the Palakkad SP. After months of back and forth, the case was reopened on the directions of DGP Behera, after noticing the discrepancies in the evidence. Rosalin had seen the dupatta with which Sophia had allegedly hanged herself. A photo of it was also found in the evidence. Arockiarajs statement mentioned that he had cut this dupatta to bring Sophias body down. But the dupatta was photographed in its entirety at the police station on the day of the incident. This crucial piece of information led to the reopening of the case. Soon, eyewitnesses from Walayar recorded statements that disputed Arockiaraj's version. Subsequently, Arockiaraj was charged with sexual assault under the POCSO Act and IPC. He was arrested in December 2015 and was released on bail after three months, due to the non-filing of the chargesheet. An inquiry constituted by DGP Bahera found SI Ravindran at fault for mishandling leading to destruction of evidence. But no action was taken against him and he retired a few months ago. Discharge and fresh charges The bishop and the four priests were also arrested in August 2016 and immediately released on bail. After this, they approached a sessions court with a petition for discharge, stating that while they had knowledge of the sexual assault, they knew nothing of the murder. This petition was allowed. Pursuant to this, the investigating officer Deputy SP Vijay Kumar told Firstpost that the police sought fresh directions from the Palakkad Sessions Court on 18 August to prosecute the bishop and four priests as it had collected more evidence to establish involvement in covering up the rape and murder. Another FIR was filed thereafter against Aquinas, Madalaimuthu, Kulandairaj, Lawrence and Melcure under Sections 201 and 202 of the IPC. Reverend Father John Joseph Stanis, serving his fifth year as the Vicar-General of the Coimbatore Diocese, insists that they do everything under their powers to bring the errant to book. "Every Catholic institution is subject to the Canon Law. According to the Canon Law, a priest is supposed to behave in a certain manner and if he violates this, he will be subject to punishment. We order an inquiry. If it is proved, we take action." He says that either the diocese will take the matter to the State or it will direct the party in violation to approach authorities. "As a Catholic, I am bound by Canon Law and as I am a citizen of this country, I am bound by civil law," he says. While proceedings were initiated against Arockiaraj to remove him from his duties as a pastor following his deposition to the canonical committee, the Coimbatore Diocese didnt convey this to the Police or intimate them about the crime. In fact, the Police closed the case as suicide much later. 'Will the Pope give me justice?' Poring over her files, with pages of marked photos, phone records and documents, Rosalin is confident that the criminal trial will go on without any more glitches as she herself has stitched together this case. "Arockiaraj has always told me the truth. He confessed to his crime. But it is powerful people like the bishop and the vicar-general who have not only denied justice to my daughter but have denied my rights too," she says. Rosalin was publicly ousted from her church. Her daughter was buried without sacraments. She says she has been writing to higher officials of the Church and she wants to write to the Pope soon. She believes only the Pope's intervention will bring an end to those colluding to bury her daughter's death. She hopes that she can return to her church someday. Asked whether the Congress would welcome Nitish Kumar as an ally, Digvijaya Singh said cryptically politics is the art of possibilities. Patna: Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said on Wednesday that he foresees the possibility of Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar doing yet another volte-face by walking out of the BJP-led NDA ahead of the next Lok Sabha election. The former Madhya Pradesh chief minister alleged that Kumar, who heads the Janata Dal (United) (JDU), an National Democratic Alliance (NDA) constituent, cannot survive without power and said he may walk out of the ruling alliance if Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity drops before the election. "It takes only 24 hours for Kumar to make a volte-face. Lok Sabha elections are six months away. Palti (U-turn) is possible," Singh, who is in Patna on a private visit, told a news channel. Asked whether the Congress would welcome Kumar as an ally, Singh said cryptically politics is the art of possibilities. Singh has served as Congress in-charge of Bihar before CP Joshi took over from him in 2013. The Rajya Sabha member's remark on the possibility of Kumar's switch to the Congress camp could also be a dig at Kumar, who had snapped his 17-year-old ties with the BJP in 2013, formed a Grand Alliance with the Congress and arch-rival Lalu Prasad a year later, but returned to the NDA last year. When he quit the Grand Alliance in July last year, Kumar had also resigned as chief minister of Bihar citing the "call of conscience". At that time, his government was drawing sever criticism from the BJP then in Opposition over corruption cases involving then deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav. However, Kumar returned as chief minister a day after his resignation and formed an alliance with the BJP. But Yadav, an Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader, has been asserting that the doors are closed for Kumar's return to the Grand Alliance. Also, Singh's remarks come at a time when media reports have suggested the NDA partners in Bihar are having a tough time negotiating sharing of seats for the 2019 election. NDA comprises BJP, JD(U), Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) of Union minister Ramvilas Paswan and Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) of Union minister Upendra Kushwaha. In the Opposition, RJD, Congress, Hindustani Awami Morcha (HAM) of former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and Left parties are working together. Training his guns at the BJP, Singh termed agitations by various upper castes organisations against reservations and SC/ST Act a conspiracy to hide the Modi government's failures. Asked about the posters put up in Patna recently, on which the caste of Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, was mentioned, Singh evaded a direct reply. He, instead said, "our slogan has always been "na jaat par na paat par vote padega hath par" (vote for the 'hand' without thinking about caste or creed). Earlier speaking to journalists, he alleged that there was a tacit understanding between the BJP and parties such as the AIMIM headed by Hyderabad lawmaker Asaduddin Owaisi. "...Look at the Ram temple issue, it gets raked up whenever elections are around the corner only to be put on the back burner once the results are out," Singh remarked. 'We stand by our book and will be approaching the Supreme Court,' publishers Juggernaut said, adding that they would not be selling the Baba Ramdev biography in a truncated form. After a Delhi High Court order passed on 29 September 2018 reaffirmed an earlier injunction on the publication, distribution and sale of an unauthorised biography of Baba Ramdev, publishing house Juggernaut Books has said it will move the Supreme Court to appeal this ruling. Godman to Tycoon: The Untold Story of Baba Ramdev, authored by Priyanka Pathak-Narain and published by Juggernaut Books in July 2017, originally faced an injunction in August that year, from a Delhi court. The ex-parte order (hearings or orders granted on the request of and for the benefit of one party only, usually of a temporary nature) restrained the publishing and sale of the book. Juggernaut contested the ruling and won a reprieve when an appellate court vacated the previous order in April 2018, and lifted the injunction against the book. However, this latest ruling by the Delhi High Court once again puts the injunction against Godman to Tycoon: The Untold Story of Baba Ramdev back in place, unless Juggernaut deletes certain sections of the book. "We will comply with the order of the High Court by not publishing, distributing or selling the book at all, as we do not want to do so in a truncated form. As the matter is sub judice, we would prefer not to comment on the merits of the case. However, we stand by our book and will be approaching the Supreme Court," a statement from Juggernaut read. Juggernaut Books publisher Chiki Sarkar later tweeted: Weve lost the ramdev case in high court but we are going to take it up to supreme https://t.co/uXV9IKpsou Chiki Sarkar (@Chikisarkar) October 3, 2018 When the first injunction against Godman to Tycoon: The Untold Story of Baba Ramdev was issued in August 2017, Juggernaut issued a statement describing the book as a work of serious journalism", adding that it "was the product of over 50 interviews, many of them taped, with key players in Baba Ramdevs life, including with Ramdev himself and close aides and family members. The book contains a detailed 25-page note on sources that lists the interviews, articles, police reports and RTI replies that are the basis of each chapter, the statement from Juggernaut had said. Prior to publication the manuscript was submitted for a legal read and vetted by an expert, and the authors taped interviews were also submitted to and authenticated by a forensic laboratory, Juggernaut claimed. Publisher Chiki Sarkar had said at the time of the April ruling: "We will always fight for our books and authors... We hope that it will help other publishers and writers." A full copy of the Delhi High Court's order is available here. A brief timeline of the case: 4 August 2017 Trial court restrains Juggernaut Books from the publication and sale of Godman to Tycoon (launched in July 2017). The order is passed ex-parte. 28 April 2018 Appellate Court lifts the ex-parte interim injunction on the publication and sale of the book. 10 May 2018 Justice RK Gauba of the Delhi High Court restores an injunction on the publication and sale of Godman to Tycoon: The Untold Story of Baba Ramdev. 29 September 2018 Delhi High Court reaffirms trial court's injunction on the publication, distribution and sale of Godman to Tycoon. Juggernaut restrained from publishing book until certain sections are deleted. With inputs from Indo-Asian News Service Congress' social media incharge Divya Spandana, aka Ramya, sparked off rumours of her resignation (or dismissal) by removing her Twitter Bio. Congress' social media in-charge Divya Spandana, aka Ramya, sparked off rumours of her resignation when description on her Twitter bio changed. Divya's Twitter bio, which described her credentials as "Actor, Former Member of Parliament and currently handles social media and digital communication for Congress" disappeared for hours on Wednesday and was mysteriously returned as soon as the news was picked up by the media. However, the actor-turned-politician, who has been credited with turning the tables for her party at a time when Congress' social media presence was at best lackluster, has denied such rumours and re-posted the missing bio, which fueled all the speculation. The re-posted bio said: "Actor, Former Member of Parliament, currently handling Social Media & Digital Communications for the Congress party & I it!" Speaking to Times Now, Divya clarified that she has not stepped down and was on leave. She blamed a "bug issue" for the missing bio. However, that did not stem the speculations flying thick and fast. According to Zee News, Divya resigned from the post of Congress' digital communications incharge and would be given some other responsibility. Meanwhile, NDTV speculated that the move hinted at strains within the party. A local news channel reported that Nivedith Alva, a former journalist and a digital media professional will now take up the responsibility. However, none of these reports named their sources and an official confirmation was unavailable. Divya was recently in the midst of controversy when she had drawn a comparison of the right-wing organisation, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) with Muslim Brotherhood. Besides, in one of her usually acerbic tweets, she had even labelled Prime Minister Narendra Modi chor (a thief), following which she was charged with sedition. However, that said, Divya remains the person behind Congress' visibly improved online-cum-offline campaign strategy in recently conducted Gujarat and Karnataka elections. The Kannada actor-turned-politician is an active Twitter user who contested and lost the 2014 polls from Mandya. She was appointed as the party's social media head in 2017. Her efforts marked the arrival of the Congress on social media, with an emphasis towards state-level leaders interacting with voters through the virtual world. Several fact check videos that the Congress regularly puts out on its official Twitter handle, were also said to be Divya's initiative. The central government allowed the farmers to enter Delhi in the early hours of Wednesday, ending the prolonged standoff between the police personnel and protesting farmers. Thousands of farmers on Wednesday ended their 10-day Kisan Kranti Yatra after arriving at Kisan Ghat in the national capital. The central government allowed them to enter Delhi in the early hours of Wednesday, ending the prolonged standoff between the police personnel and protesting farmers. Led by Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) chief Naresh Tikait, over 400 tractors carrying thousands of farmers reached Kisan Ghat. Tikait declared it as the "victory of farmers" and said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has failed in its "motives". "The farmers remained unfazed despite all the hardships. We have been marching for 12 days now, farmers are tired as well. We will continue to demand our rights but for now we are ending the march," Tikait told IANS at Kisan Ghat. Shouting anti-BJP slogans, the farmers, with blisters on feet, reached Kisan Ghat at around 2 am on Wednesday. The farmers said they have reached an agreement with the Central government, which, according to them, has accepted "most of the demands". They said that their prime demand of increasing the price of crops has been agreed upon by the government. "A formal announcement in this regard will be made within six days by the government," Rakesh Tikait, national spokesperson of Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), told IANS, shortly before the farmers called off their march. The government has also assured the farmers of bearing the costs for the repair of tractors that were damaged during the standoff with the police personnel at Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border earlier on Tuesday. The farmers raised slogans against the BJP-led Central government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They also hailed former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh widely regarded as a hero of the country's peasants, and applauded the coming together of farmers. The top leadership of the protesting farmers later addressed the gathering and said that they should be united in their future struggles too. At around 5.30 am on Wednesday morning, the farmers began dispersing from the Kisan Ghat. Amid massive deployment of security personnel at , the farmers reinforced their march to the national capital after obtaining necessary permissions from the administration. Earlier on Tuesday, as the farmers tried to enter Delhi, police stopped them on the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border, triggering violence that left some of them injured. The farmers have a charter of 15 demands including loan waiver and fair prices for crops, which they want implemented without delay. Their demands include complete loan waiver, revoking ban on 10-year-old tractors in the National Capital Region (NCR), reduction in electricity tariff, implementation of the recommendations of the MS Swaminathan Commission on remunerative prices and payment of sugarcane arrears among others. The protesters started their 10-day march from Haridwar in Uttarakhand led by the BKU and on Tuesday, they reached the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border. There was heavy deployment of security forces at the border. Vijay Rupani urged people to adopt Gandhiji's values of non-violence, serving the poor and buying only country-made products. Ahmedabad: Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani Tuesday said Gandhian philosophy holds solution to every problem faced by the society. Rupani paid tributes to the Father of Nation on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary by visiting 'Kirti Mandir', a memorial dedicated to him in Porbandar town of the Saurashtra region. Porbandar is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. "Gandhiji's life was his message. I firmly believe that Gandhian philosophy holds solution to all the problems," the chief minister said while addressing a gathering. He said Gandhiji's thoughts are still relevant. "The best tribute to him would be to walk on the path shown by him, such as speaking truth, shun violence and maintain cleanliness," Rupani said. He urged the people to adopt Gandhiji's values of non-violence, serving the poor and buying only country-made products. He also attended an all-religion prayer meeting at Kirti Mandir. On the occasion, around 8,000 students of various schools formed a human chain to create Gandhiji's face in an area of one lakh square feet on the Porbandar beach. The human formation event was organised by the Rotaract Club of Porbandar. "Hoping to set a new world record, the club had also invited the representatives of the Guinness Book of World Records, who have collected the details about the event," said Hardik Dhakka, secretary of the club. Later in the evening, Rupani purchased Khadi from a shop on Ashram Road of Ahmedabad city to promote the garment's popularity. "The chief minister would lay the foundation stone for 'Khadi Museum' and a new office building for state Khadi Gramodyod Board in Vadaj area of the city," said an official release. Rupani and Gujarat Governor OP Kohli would also attend a prayer recitation function at Sabarmati Ashram, where Gandhiji lived for a significant period of his life. Earlier in the day, Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel visited the Ashram and paid his tributes to the Mahatma. Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said that negotiations for the Rafale deal had reached such an advanced stage that 'if we didn't go forward, we would have gone back six years'. Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa on Wednesday came out in defence of the Rafale fighter jet deal with France, saying that Dassault Aviation, the French firm that will manufacture the jets, had chosen Reliance Defence as its offset partner, and that the government and the Indian Air Force had no role to play in the choice. "Offsets are a prerogative of OEM (original equipment manager). The government of IAF had nothing to do with it. We will not comment on who was nudged as that is out of our domain," he said when questioned about the government playing favourites while inking the Rafale deal. "Only three options were left when negotiations between Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and Dassault reached an impasse wait for something to happen, withdraw the RPF (request for proposal) or make an emergency purchase. We chose the last. In the past, too, we acquired two squadrons of the Dassault Mirage," the Air Chief Marshal said. "Negotiations for the Rafale deal had reached such an advanced stage that if we didn't go forward, we would have gone back six years," he said. "We had to address the problem of attrition in the air force." India had signed the deal with France in September 2016 to procure of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of around Rs 58,000 crore. The delivery of the aircraft is scheduled to begin from September 2019. The Congress has raised several questions about the contract, including about the rates of the aircraft, the number of fighter jets bought as well as the decision to have Reliance Defence partner with Dassault Aviation instead of the public sector enterprise Hindustan Aeronautics. The Central government has rejected all the charges. Expressing concern over the "number of depleting squadrons", he said both the Rafale jets and the S-400 air defence missile systems a deal for which India is likely to sign with Russia this week are like a "booster dose" to the air force. "As and when the government approves it (the S-400 air defence missile systems), delivery will be in 24 months," he added. #BREAKING | Rafale and S-400, a booster dose for the @IAF_MCC (IAF): Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa pic.twitter.com/iZTSakJPPh News18 (@CNNnews18) October 3, 2018 India "got a good package and a lot of advantages" in the agreement, Dhanoa said, also praising the fighter jet as a "good aircraft", saying it will be "game-changer when it comes to the subcontinent". "The government took a bold step and bought 36 Rafale aircraft. A high-performance, high-tech aircraft has been to the given to the air force to offset the capability of the adversary," he said in further praise of the deal," Dhanoa added. Govt took a bold step & bought 36 Rafale aircraft. A high performance, high-tech aircraft has been to the given to the air force to offset the capability of the adversary: Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa pic.twitter.com/rDfayyqiAs ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 When asked whether the IAF was consulted before the Centre decided to buy 36 Rafale planes instead of 126, Dhanoa said the air force was "consulted at the appropriate level". "The IAF had given some options, but it is up to the government to choose," he said. The Congress has demanded the government explain why instead of 126 Rafale fighter jets, only 36 were being bought if they were cheaper, as the Centre claimed, under the NDA deal than the one worked out by the UPA. Earlier in September, as well, the Air Chief Marshal had said that by providing the Rafale jets and S-400 system, the government is strengthening the IAF to counter the shortfalls of the country's depleting squadrons. The IAF vice-chief, Air Marshal SB Deo, had also strongly endorsed the Rafale fighter jets, calling it a "beautiful" aircraft and saying it will give India an "unprecedented" combat advantage. IMD said that heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in isolated places in Kerala on 3, 4, 5 and 6 October. Warning that the depression off the Sri Lankan coast may turn into a low-intensity cyclone, the Indian Metereorological Department has said in its all-India weather warning bulletin released on Wednesday that heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in isolated places in Kerala on 3, 4, 5 and 6 October. The IMD further said that extremely heavy rainfall is expected in Kerala on 7 October. Collectors in all three districts, where red alert has been issued, have been told to keep arrangements ready for make-shift camps to move people if needed. Special relief camps are to be kept ready in mountainous and hilly areas, that are prone to landslides, and all along the river banks, from where people have to shift if needed. "Rough to very rough sea conditions are likely to prevail over south and central Arabian Sea. Fishermen are advised not to venture into these areas," the IMD said in its bulletin. All fishermen who are out at sea have been issued a warning to return by 5 October. The state's disaster management authority held a meeting on Wednesday, chaired by the chief minister, to take stock of the situation. Tourists have been told not to visit Munnar from 5 October. Kerala Chief Minister's Office (CMO) Twitter handle also tweeted out the warnings. Met Centre has predicted that heavy (7-11 cm in 24 hours) to very heavy (12-20 cm in 24 hours) rainfall is likely to occur at 1 or 2 places in Kerala on 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th of October. Extremely heavy rainfall (21 cm & above in 24 hrs) is likely to occur at 1 or 2 places on 7th. CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) October 3, 2018 The IMD also released a rainfall forecast for the districts in Kerala: At least 488 people had died in Kerala due to the rains and floods this monsoon, which hit 14 districts of the state. Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan had said that the estimated value of destruction "is more than the annual outlay of our state". He had added that at the height of the floods, the worst to hit the state in a century, there were 14.50 lakh people in more than 3,000 relief camps. Last week, the Kerala government had also announced that it will provide free ration for three months to those who lost their livelihood due to the devastating floods. "The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act scheme will also be reworked to provide more number of working days to those who suffered due to the floods," Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had told the media in Thiruvananthapuram. He had also announced various committees headed by senior officials to formulate policies and to speed up rebuilding efforts in flood-hit state. A one-year moratorium had been declared on all agricultural and educational loans. With inputs from IANS and Naveen Nair The seven Rohingya immigrants from Rakhine state in Myanmar had been staying at a detention centre in Silchar, Assam, since 2012, when they were detained by the police. New Delhi: Seven Rohingya immigrants, who have been staying in Assam illegally, will be deported to their home country Myanmar on Thursday, officials said in New Delhi. This is the first time Rohingya immigrants will be sent back to Myanmar from India. The seven Rohingya immigrants will be handed over to Myanmar authorities at the Moreh border post in Manipur on Thursday, a home ministry official said. The illegal immigrants have been staying at a detention centre in Silchar, Assam, since 2012, when they were detained by the police. Consular access had been given to Myanmar diplomats, who confirmed the identity of the immigrants, the official said. Another official said the confirmation of the Myanmarese citizenship of the illegal immigrants came after the government of the neighbouring country verified their addresses in Rakhine state. The Indian government told Parliament last year that more than 14,000 Rohingya people, registered with the UN refugee agency, the UN High Commission for Refugees, live in India. However, aid agencies estimate there are about 40,000 Rohingya people in the country. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims, described by the UN as the most persecuted minority in the world, fled their homes last year to escape an alleged crackdown by the Myanmarese military. Human rights group Amnesty International has blamed Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and the country's government for "burying their heads in the sand over the horrors unfolding in Rakhine state". The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union on Wednesday burnt an effigy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. New Delhi: The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union on Wednesday burnt an effigy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to condemn the "lathicharge" and usage of water cannons on protesting farmers in the national capital. "Thousands of farmers under the banner of the Bharatiya Kisan Union on Tuesday were brutally lathicharged, tear gas shells were fired and they were stopped at Delhi-UP border when they tried to reach Kisan Ghat in Delhi to register their demands before the government," the JNUSU said on Wednesday. Instead of listening to the demands, the Delhi Police was ordered to use brute force to stop the tide of protesting farmers, it added. The students gathered at Sabarmati Dhaba in the campus and burnt an effigy. "The JNUSU strongly condemns the Modi Sarkar and the Delhi Police for using brutal force on those who have built and fed the people of this nation," it said. The Kerala High Court on Wednesday rejected the bail plea of former Bishop Franco Mulakkal in the nun rape case. The Kerala High Court on Wednesday rejected the bail plea of former Bishop Franco Mulakkal in the nun rape case. CNN-News18 reported that the court accepted the prosecution's argument that Mulakkal could influence witnesses if he was let out on bail. According to reports, the Kerala Police had said that since more complaints were being submitted, giving the accused bail would hamper the investigation. On 24 September, the Pala Judicial Magistrate Court in Kottayam had remanded Mulakkal to judicial custody till 6 October. He has been lodged in the Pala sub-jail for the past 10 days. Franco Mulakkal, who has been accused of raping a nun multiple times between 2014 and 2016, was produced in a magistrate court in Pala on 22 September and has been sent to police custody till 24 September. His lawyer had filed for a bail application, which was dismissed by the magistrate court. On 22 September, the police submitted a remand report to the court saying that Mulakkal had gone to the convent with the intention of sexually assaulting the nun and in May 2014, he illegally confined her in Room 20 of the guest house and "subjected her to unnatural sexual assault". The police also said that the accused threatened the nun with dire consequences if she ever revealed the incident. "Between 2014-2016, the victim was subjected to rape and unnatural sex 13 times in the same room," the remand report stated. Mulakkal, who headed the Roman Catholic Diocese in Jalandhar, Punjab, was arrested on 21 September in Tripunithura after three days of questioning in the case. With inputs from agencies Hours after Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said his government will not file a review petition on the Supreme Court's verdict allowing women of all ages to enter the Sabarimala temple, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) issued a press release calling upon all stakeholders, including spiritual and community leaders, to address the issue. Hours after Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said his government will not file a review petition on the Supreme Court's verdict allowing women of all ages to enter the Sabarimala temple, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) issued a press release calling upon all stakeholders, including spiritual and community leaders, to address the issue. The RSS said in its press release: "The recent judgment on Sabarimala Devasthanam has evoked reactions all over the country. While we all respect the varied temple traditions followed by devotees in Bharat, we have to also honour the Honourable Supreme Court." The press further stated that the case was an issue of a local temple tradition and faith to which sentiments of millions of devotees, including women, are attached. These sentiments of the devotees cannot be ignored while considering the judgment, the press release added. "Unfortunately, the Kerala government has taken steps to implement the judgment with immediate effect without taking the sentiments of the devotees into consideration. There is an obvious reaction to the same by the devotees, especially women, who are protesting against the forceful breaking of the tradition," the press release added. "While the Supreme Court judgment should be respected, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh calls upon all the stakeholders, including spiritual and community leaders to come together to analyse and address the issue availing judicial options also. They must convey their concerns on their right to worship in a manner which best suits their faith and devotion, to the authorities in a peaceful manner," the press release stated. With inputs from PTI Even if the Churches in India don't hold Franco Mulakkal responsible, he is accountable to the Vatican. The Pope is watching, says Dr. Aruna Gnanadason. Editor's note: This is a multi-part series that investigates sexual abuse in the Church and the institutions that it runs. Articles in the series rely on interviews with victims, abusers, those accused of abuse, church elders, parish members and state officials to examine the role of the three institutions that are critical to the issue: The Church, the community, and the State. *** Dr. Aruna Gnanadason has served as the executive director for Planning and Integration in the General Secretariat of the World Council of Churches (WCC) at Geneva, before which she was the coordinator of the Justice Peace and Creation Team and of the Women's Programme of the World Council of Churches. Gnanadason speaks to Firstpost regarding her work on addressing violence faced by women within the Church and how the task of dealing with the systemic nature of such abuse is far from easy. Can you tell us more about your book, No longer a Secret: The Church and Violence against Women? I wrote this book at a time when the World Council of Churches was pushed to talk about sexual abuse because there had been an incident of rape on the eve of the inaugural Assembly session of the WCC in 1991. An Orthodox Priest from Eastern Europe raped a young Canadian woman. Both of them had come to attend the assembly. This incident shook the very foundation of the WCC. I walked into the WCC the same year. When I moved to Geneva to be a part of this organisation, the first task that I had to address was: what is the WCC going to do about this? I had been working on women's movement for years in India and I went with a very strong critique of the Church. The church is one of the most patriarchal institutions in the world and the violence against women which happens within the Church is usually met by silence from the Church. This is why my book was called 'No longer a secret'. Till then, only women and that too, a few, would talk about abuse. But after this incident, we came to the conclusion that this isn't a women's issue. This is an issue for the Church. Everybody had to get involved. Was there reluctance on the part of members of WCC, like we see in present day cases? Absolutely not. Everybody was determined to address this incident. Policies were put into place to ensure that those working with the WCC were protected. The pastor was summarily sent back to his home church, which is considered as a disgrace. The victim was urged to file charges but she chose not to. We supported her in the ways she wanted us to. This is how my life started in the WCC. Wasn't it difficult though, talking about the violence within? It was, but I straightaway insisted that we talk about violence against women in the Church. Many were speaking about violence out there, but they could not handle the discussion when the violence was being perpetrated within the institution. Firstly, we organised mock courts where we had women testify on violence they faced in the church. This was an exercise to familiarise those who have lived through the experience of an abuse within the institution. Secondly, we tried hard to deconstruct the theology women are taught. Often, the suffering of women is equated with how the Christ suffered and died on the cross. They are asked why they can't bear it when Jesus did. In the same decade, the story of an Indian woman from Madurai shook the state of Tamil Nadu. For seven years, a Church elder beat her while she worked for him and she suffered in silence. He went on to marry her sister and would abuse them both. Finally, her brother involved local organisations and the local police to get them out of the house. Theologically, women are brainwashed into believing this notion of suffering, that this is what God has called them to do and that they shouldn't challenge any kind of violence, as they've been put in their places to suffer. We did a lot of work to challenge these value systems and the attitude of the Church. Did it help change the mindset? It is difficult to gauge. Despite of what we started back then, till today you have women tell you that this is a life they accept. Suffering is seen as redemptive. Especially within the Catholic Church. Jesus dying on the cross is portrayed to have this element of salvation to it. Most of the nuns within the Catholic Church grow up with these images, of how they should bear suffering. It is their duty to do so. Whether we take the case of the Jalandhar nuns of the Catholic Church or the smaller establishments referred to in your series, the abuse faced by women within the Church is justified in this manner. Women are made to believe that they should be silent within the framework of the Church. My mother used to tell me that the priest at our Church is God's representative. She used to get really worried if I spoke up against them. This is the culture. This is the systemic way of keeping oppression intact. It is not a thing of faith; it is what the Church believes things should be. How do you challenge the gender roles within the Church? We have terrible stories in the Bible. Feminist Theologians have been unravelling them by calling them 'Tales of Terror'. These are stories of rape by brother, fathers and others in positions of power. The stories are in the scriptures and it is time the Church spoke about them. There must also be a great attention given to how we bring up our children. One of the questions that my grandson was asked in Sunday School recently was, "How many wives did King Solomon have?" Instead of telling what was wrong with King Solomon, we are asking our children about the number of his wives. This sort of message is constantly going to boys, that there are things they can do and things they cannot do. This is women's work and so on. The other day my grandson happened to mention something on the lines of, "Amma can't do this!" I asked why. He said, "Because she is a woman". He is not even 5 and he is the son and grandson of two strong feminists. He has picked it up from all over - popular culture, TV and even the church. This title No longer a secret is prophetic for the times we live in. The nuns coming out is sort of representative of this. Did you expect this to happen sooner though? The fact remains that little has changed since 1997 within the Reformed churches, the non-Catholic denominations. Yes, more women are ordained and women are in leadership positions and we even have one woman Bishop here in India. That is all very cosmetic. The institution remains patriarchal; there has hardly been any change. That is where we are stuck. I was in the top leadership team within the WCC. The men meet over a drink and make their decisions and they just inform the women. I had to toe their line in order to survive there. That is why I left after 22 years. If the woman is a feminist in that space, there is no space for her. You went to the Vatican recently. You've met the Pope. What was the experience like? We went as a part of an Ecumenical Delegation of the Reformed Churches, on how we as Christians must work on the principle that justice is at the heart of the faith. When I met Pope Francis he held my hand, and it was a very warm handshake. I wanted to tell him to listen to the women of the Church. But I couldn't get myself to say it. I regret not saying it. Just before I went to the Vatican, I had heard that the Pope had suggested the setting up of a Women's Commission. See, we need to understand that the Vatican is worse than a State. They have commissions for everything and only commissions take decisions. It is very hierarchical. Pope Francis is himself a justice oriented, liberation theologian and I am told that he is trying his best to bring about reform. So, I asked a question to this young Priest who was accompanying and taking the delegation around the Vatican in order to provoke him. I asked him about the proposed Women's Commission and whether the Pope will listen to the decisions of the women in it. The Priest told me with a straight face, that no such commission is in the offing and the Pope makes such statements from time to time. They won't materialise. The Vatican is huge and powerful, with vast amounts of wealth and known for its power struggles, palace intrigues and so on. For instance, this Sisters letter to the Vatican, I am sure it was stopped from reaching the Pope, by those within the hierarchy. But still, the message about this struggle did reach Pope. The Nuncio of India was called. A conclave of Bishops has been scheduled for February 2019. How has the ICWM supported the survivor nun? ICWM accompanied the survivor nun at every step. As soon the issue became public, we attempted to contact the apostolic nuncio to India Archbishop Giambattista Diquattro but were told he had left the country. What she has gone through is earth shattering. Just think about this woman. Can she go back and be an ordinary sister in her ministry? Impossible. The senior nuns decided not to take her side. It is such a mess. The five nuns who stood by her side, showed that women could break all expectations and do something like this. The Sister who is the survivor herself could do this because of the inspiration of her family. Her family, especially her brother, believed her and backed her. Her family stood by her and urged her to take it to court if required. But look at Franco. He has broken every vow. He is no longer a celibate and his congregation hasn't denied this. But the congregation continues to consider him one among them. That is how strong men within the institution are, devoid of ethics and still completely protected. Even if the Churches in India don't hold him responsible, he is accountable to the Vatican. The Pope is watching. The reputation of the Vatican has hit such a low note that they've no other recourse but to take action, which they will. The ill-conceived effort to resolve woes of farmers, who are harvesting debt every month, through official presentations is nothing more than a repetitive process irrespective of the shades of power in the Centre since independence, and the reason why farmers marched to Delhi as part of Kisan Kranti Yatra New Delhi: There is no relation between the old solutions babus have accumulated over a period of time and the fresh problems that farmers of this country are facing every day. The ill-conceived effort to resolve woes of farmers, who are harvesting debt every month, through official presentations is nothing more than a repetitive process irrespective of the shades of power in the Centre since independence. Why were angry and agitated farmers knocking on the door of Delhi on Tuesday? One doesn't need penetrating vision to comprehend. It is a cruel and well-known fact that half of the Indias agricultural household is overburdened with debt besides facing various issues of unviable and unsustainable farming. The Congress-led UPA had claimed to having solved all the problems with farm loan waiver scheme which later turned out to be a Rs 52,000 crore scam. Its successor, NDA headed by Narendra Modi after coming to power identified six major issues plaguing farmers, however, a majority of them remain buried in powerpoint presentations prepared by about a dozen top bureaucrats. A senior government officer once quipped the real problem is not about policies but lack of insight and we are acting like a shoemaker who blames the feet when the shoes dont fit. The fact is rural India, which politicians fondly remember as Bharat to harvest electoral dividends, has an estimated 90.2 million agricultural households dependent mainly on cultivation. Of these, about 52 percent households are under debt of an average Rs 47,000 per household. It is a fact that only 45 percent of the land is irrigated and there is massive shortage of funds to create additional irrigation potential. It cannot be denied that bureaucrats did not read the facts before drafting the solutions. But, lack of inputs from ground zero resulted in pointless cultivation of ideas in the lutyens Delhi and that is why they noted on the file identify the problems and suggest possible solutions without putting pressure on the gross budgetary support, which is a typical babus phrase in the governance. It comes with a hidden statutory warning that things may or may not improve and they will not be held accountable for it. Moreover, they have failed to answer a simple question why a farmer in rural Maharashtra is paid just Rs 2 for one kilogramme of tomato that is sold for Rs 50 per kilogramme in the big cities? Babus did think about it. A file lying in the Cabinet Secretariat says three issues fragmented markets, restrictive regulatory provisions and limited access to alternative markets other than mandis are real culprits for farmers' distress. And to resolve these issues, they came out with a magic pill one nation one market but that failed to cure the ills. In reality, the idea failed to take off due to the indifferent attitude of the states and the government machinery, and whatever little effort made through E-National Agriculture Market hardly made any difference to the lives of the farmers. That is the reason, the farmers demand the government to assure minimum income so that they can at least survive. The cry is loud and clear they are unable to find a way to get out of current agriculture mess and seems to be totally fed up with the struggle. Among the 15 major demands, the farmers are seeking loan waiver, free electricity for running tube wells, release of pending sugarcane payments and implementation of the Swaminathan Committee report. Government documents show they have considered all these aspects while addressing the concerns of the farmers in the last couple of years. For example, increase in productivity, remunerative prices and market support has been on the top of the at least nine other recent initiatives of the government to double farmers' income by 2022. Alas, the team that advised the cure did not have a single farmers representative or agriculture expert on board and the Babus were left with their magic wand and blamed the farmers for being slow in adopting new technologies. It is true the agriculture sector cannot remain static but the government has to take initiative to bridge the gap. For example, the farmers are also seeking amendment in crop insurance scheme since climate change is impacting the agriculture produce. It is a fact that only 42 percent small and marginal farmers have access to crop insurance and on many occasion they were given Rs 10-15 for damaged crop, which is like rubbing salt in wound. Now, the government has to come out with a uniform solution. It is also a fact that only 6 percent of the net bank credit goes to small and marginal farmers despite the government's attempts since 2006 to ensure hassle free loan and provide short-term crop loans up to Rs 3 lakh. When successive governments admit that farmers indebtedness is a major cause of suicide, why not increase the coverage of flow of credit to farmers? The present government has made some efforts to extend agriculture credit to small and marginal farmers with an achievement of covering 56 percent but that is not enough and a large population is left to the mercy of professional money lenders. The government should also get farmers representatives on board during the arduous effort to understand the ground reality and to solidify the effect of progressive policies if it's serious to make farming viable, profitable, and sustainable. Awarded annually, the title of UNEP Champions of the Earth prize is awarded to outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions have positively impacted the environment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday received the United Nations' highest environmental honour, the UNEP Champion of the Earth award, at a special ceremony at the Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in Delhi. "Prime Minister Modi has been selected in the leadership category for his pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and for his unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022," a statement had said earlier. The award, announced on 26 September on the sidelines of 73rd UN General Assembly in New York City, was presented by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "Many leaders understand climate change but Prime Minister Narendra Modi acts on it. The example of prime minister's leadership is not being followed enough." the UN chief said. The prime minister also addressed the gathering. "It is a great honour that this award is being given in India itself... It is an honour for all Indians. Indians are committed to save the environment," Modi said. "This award is a result of India's 1.25 billion strong population." Launched in 2005, the Champions of the Earth is conferred annually to "outstanding figures from the public and private sectors and from civil society whose actions have had a transformative, positive impact on the environment". The award is granted under five categories: policy leadership, lifetime achievement, action and inspiration, entrepreneurial vision, and science and innovation. Prime Minister Modi and French president Emmanuel Macron are this year's recipients of the UN award under the policy leadership category. Indigenous rights defender Joan Carling was awarded in the lifetime achievement category, China's Zhejiang province in the action and inspiration category, Kochi International Airport in the entrepreneurial vision category, and Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat in the science and innovation category. Since 2005, the UN's highest environmental honour has recognised dozens of "exemplary individuals and organisations", whose work has inspired critical action on behalf of the global environment. Past laureates include Unilever CEO Paul Polman, Rwandan president Paul Kagame, ocean explorer and conservationist Sylvia Earle, and the National Geographic Society, among several others. Here is a list of winners from the past few year and a little bit about their contributions to fighting climate change: 2017: Policy leadership: Michelle Bachelet, President of the Republic of Chile, was recognised for her outstanding leadership in creating marine protected areas and boosting renewable energy. Lifetime achievement: Wang Wenbiao, chairman of China's largest private green industries enterprise, Elion Resources Group, won for his lifetime leadership work. Action and inspiration: Jeff Orlowski, founder and director of Exposure Labs, was recognised for his work on spreading powerful environmental messages to a global audience. Exposure Labs uses the power of storytelling to create impact. China's Saihanba Afforestation Community also won in this category for transforming degraded land into a lush paradise. Entrepreneurial vision: Mobike, a bicycle sharing startup, won in this category for exploring market-driven solutions to air pollution and climate change. Science and innovation: Dr Paul A Newman and NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center won for their contributions to the Montreal Protocol, under which 99 percent of ozone-depleting substances have been phased out. 2016: Policy leadership: Rwandan president Paul Kagame was given the accolade for the country's efforts to combat illegal forestry, restore vital wetlands, protect the habitat of endangered gorillas and for becoming one of the first countries to ban the use of plastic bags. Lifetime achievement: Mexican research biologist Jose Sarukhan Kermez earned the award after he persuaded the Mexican government to establish a permanent top-level commission on biodiversity. Action and inspiration: Afroz Shah, a Mumbai-based lawyer who founded the world's largest beach clean-up project, was awarded the title for his commitment to cleaning up Versova Beach. Honduran indigenous rights activist Berta Caceres was also recognised for her efforts towards the rights of marginalised and poverty-stricken indigenous people. Entrepreneurial vision: Masen, the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy, was awarded the prize for pioneering the first large-scale capture of solar energy in West Asia and North Africa, thus reducing the country's dependence on high-carbon imports. Science and innovation: New York-based Australian designer, social scientist and sustainability expert Leyla Acaroglu was given the award for instigating environmental and social change through innovation. 2015: Policy leadership: Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina was given the award in recognition of Bangladesh's far-reaching initiatives to address climate change. Action and inspiration: The Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit in South Africa was awarded the prize for their efforts to protect the endangered black rhino from poaching. Entrepreneurial vision: Sustainable beauty brand Natura Brasil was recognised for prioritising recycled and recyclable materials in its packaging and fostering sustainable economy in the Amazon region. Unilever CEO Paul Polman was also given the award in this category for championing equitable and sustainable business practices. Science and innovation: UNEP lauded the National Geographic Society for using storytelling, science and exploration to change the environmental narrative and for funding thousands of research, conservation and education programmes around the globe. 2014: Policy leadership: Former Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono was given the Champion of Earth title for his attention to environmental issues and for using environmental stewardship as a means to economic prosperity. The President of the Republic of Palau, Tommy Remengesau Jr, was also given the award for his work to protect the country's endangered biodiversity. Lifetime achievement: Nobel Laureate Mario Jose Molina-Pasquel Henriquez was given the award for discovering the link between chlorofluorocarbon gases and the degradation of the Earth's ozone layer in 1974. Marine biologist Sylvia Earle was also recognised in this category for her dedicated work towards ocean conservation, including leading the first team of women aquanauts and setting a record for solo diving to a depth of 1,000 metres. Action and inspiration: Somalian environmental activist Fatima Jama Jibrell, who is also the founder of non-profit organisation Adeso, was recognised in this category for battling illegal trade of charcoal and promoting conservation across Africa. Boyan Slat, founder of The Ocean Cleanup, was also given the award for his work developing technologies that make extracting plastic from the ocean easier. Entrepreneurial vision: The US Green Building Council was recognised for its work towards sustainable building through its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, which is currently the most widely used green building programme worldwide. Science and innovation: Environmentalist Sir Robert Watson was awarded the prize for his career spent promoting the science behind ozone depletion, global warming and palaeoclimatology. 2013: Policy leadership: The UNEP awarded the prize to Slovenia's Janez Potocnik for his work advocating the need to develop more resource-efficient economies. Brazilian minister Izabella Teixeira was also given the award in this category for her work to reduce the deforestation in the Amazon forest. Action and inspiration: Mexican conservation advocate Martha Isabel Ruiz Corzo was awarded the prize for achieving "Biosphere Reserve" status for the Sierra Gorda reserve through advocacy. Carlo Petrini, the founder of Slow Food, was also recognised. Slow Food encourages and supports indigenous people to uphold their food traditions as the custodians of irreplaceable inherited knowledge, in particular through the Presidia projects and the Terra Madre network of food communities. Entrepreneurial vision: American businessman Jack Dangermond was given the award for his work at the Environmental Systems Research Institute, a geographic information systems software company he founded with his wife Laura. American software engineer Brian McClendon, who co-founded Keyhole, Inc., a geospatial data visualisation company that was instrumental to the creation of Google Earth, was also given the award. Science and innovation: Dr Veerabhadran Ramanathan, a professor at the University of California San Diego, was given the award for his work researching the greenhouse effect of chlorofluorocarbons and numerous other man-made trace gases. 2012: Policy leadership: Former Mongolian president Tsakhia Elbegdorj was given the award in the for his commitment to bringing environmental issues into policy-making. Grassroots initiative: In a new category, Maasai warrior Samson Parashina was given the award for his work developing sustainable green economy models for Kenya's Kuku Group Ranch Action and inspiration: Swiss scientist Dr Bertrand Piccard was recognised for his work as a world-renowned doctor and aeronaut. He was also one of the pioneers of hang-gliding and microlight aviation in the 1970s. Entrepreneurial vision: Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar City, a planned city project in Abu Dhabi, was given the award for his work developing and for deploying renewable energy and clean technology solutions. Fabio C Barbosa, CEO of Latin American media enterprise Abril SA, was also given the award in this category for his work to integrate environmentally and socially conscious practices into his leadership. Science and innovation: Dr Sander van der Leeuw was given the award for his extensive work studying human-environment relations. With inputs from agencies The award announced on 26 September, on the sidelines of 73rd UN General Assembly at New York City, will be presented by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, read a statement. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday received the United Nations' highest environmental honour, the 'UNEP Champion of the Earth' award, at a special ceremony in the Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra. The award announced on 26 September, on the sidelines of 73rd UN General Assembly at New York City, was presented by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The prime minister also addressed the gathering. "Prime minister Modi has been selected in the leadership category for his pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and for his unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022," a statement had said earlier. Awarded annually, the 'Champions of the Earth' prize is given to outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions "have had a positive impact on the environment". In a U-turn, Pakistan has announced that its close ally Saudi Arabia would not join the $50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, days after Islamabad said Riyadh will be the third 'strategic partner' of China's flagship project, the Belt and Road Initiative. Islamabad: In a U-turn, Pakistan has announced that its close ally Saudi Arabia would not join the $50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, days after Islamabad said Riyadh will be the third "strategic partner" of China's flagship project, the Belt and Road Initiative. The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of President Xi Jinping aimed at enhancing China's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects. Minister for Planning and Development Khusro Bakhtiar told media on Tuesday that the cash-rich kingdom's proposed investments would fall under a separate bilateral arrangement, Dawn news reported. "Saudi Arabia is not to become a collateral strategic partner in the CPEC. This impression is not true," he said. A third country can participate in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by taking part in the business and investment ventures arising out of the project, Bakhtiar said. "The framework between China and Pakistan is bilateral and Saudi Arabia is not entering that framework as a third-party investor, rather the base of the CPEC will be broadened and its pace will be expedited," he said. Last month, information minister Fawad Chaudhry said that Saudi Arabia is the third "strategic partner" of the CPEC, soon after prime minister Imran Khan returned from his first foreign trip to the kingdom. Interestingly, Chaudhry was sitting with Bakhtiar when he issued the clarification that Saudi Arabia participation in the CPEC was not as the third partner in the project. Bakhtiar further said that there was no decision to bring a third country, like Saudi Arabia, under the framework of the CPEC. He was responding to questions about the possibility of Saudi Arabia becoming part of the Joint Working Groups or Joint Coordination Committee on the CPEC. Bakhtiar said there could be many offshoots of the CPEC where third countries could be involved in trilateral arrangement for infrastructure development, like China-Pakistan-Japan, China-Pakistan-Saudi Arabia or China-Pakistan-Germany. The minister dodged questions when asked how the cost of Main Railway Line (ML-I) had been reduced by $2 billion from $8.2 billion to $6.2 billion as claimed by Railways Minister Shaikh Rasheed Ahmed. "I have noticed this today that Sheikh Rasheed is making some efforts (to reduce the cost) but not to my knowledge. Nothing has come in front of me to suggest that the cost has come down," he said. Bakhtiar said the CPEC portfolio currently stands at about $50 billion, of which about $6 billion was a government-to-government loan and remaining in Independent Power Producers mode mostly in the energy sector. About $29 billion worth of projects were currently in progress. He said the CPEC had far bigger potential than $50 billion and would keep expanding with time as new projects come up but the previous government treated and played it like a T-20 match instead of a five-day test series and focused mostly on projects which could be completed during its tenure. Currently, a Saudi delegation is in Pakistan for initial assessment to capitalise on the Pakistani offer. India has opposed the CPEC project and protested to China as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. A fresh plea was moved in the Supreme Court on Wednesday seeking to restrain the Centre from deporting to Myanmar seven Rohingya Muslims. New Delhi: A fresh plea was moved in the Supreme Court on Wednesday seeking to restrain the Centre from deporting to Myanmar seven Rohingya Muslims lodged in a detention centre at Silchar in Assam. A bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, which made it clear to lawyers at the outset that it will not allow urgent mentioning of matters till the framing of "parameters" on such cases, said that it would take a decision on urgent hearing in this issue after perusing the application. The bench, also comprising Justices SK Kaul and KM Joseph, was told by lawyer Prashant Bhushan that some Rohingya refugees were on the verge of being deported and the matter required urgent hearing. "No mentioning. We will work out the parameters, then we will see as to how mentioning will be done," the bench said, adding that matters like execution of a death row convict, eviction cases can be heard urgently. Initially, the bench asked Bhushan to file the plea and on being told that the application has already been filed, it said, "We will peruse the file and the decide." The fresh plea has been filed challenging the decision of the Centre to deport seven Rohingya immigrants, who have been staying in Assam illegally, to their home country Myanmar on Thursday. Rohingya immigrants will be handed over to the Myanmar authorities in Moreh border post in Manipur on Thursday, a home ministry official has said. The interim plea, seeking urgent measures to stop the proposed deportation of seven Rohingyas, has been filed in a pending PIL. The PIL was filed earlier by two Rohingya immigrants Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir challenging the Centre's decision to deport over 40,000 refugees who came to India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination and violence against the community. The fresh plea said that the decision to deport was in "grave violation" of India's international obligation and moreover, the situation in Myanmar was extremely dangerous for the Rohingyas to return and they are likely to be subjected to torture and even killed. "Pass an order restraining the Union of India from taking any steps towards the deportation of any Rohingya refugees lodged in jails or detention centres in Assam or other parts of the country in contravention of non-derogable principles of customary international law and during the pendency if the case," the plea said. Issue direction to officials of prison at Silchar Central jail in Assam and Union Home Ministry to "allow and facilitate the detenues in question as a well as other detenues on other prisons in Assam to approach the UNHCR in New Delhi to determine/ascertain if they are in need of international protection as refugees within its mandate and for grant of refugee identification cards," it said. The plea also referred to alarm raised by United Nations Human Rights expert over the proposed deportation of seven Rohingya to Myanmar, saying their forcible return could constitute "refoulement" which was violative of international law. Earlier, the apex court had appointed area Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) as nodal officers who could be approached by the Rohingya immigrants living at Kalindi Kunj in Delhi and Mewat in Haryana with grievances relating to health care, water, sanitation and education. The bench was hearing petitions including the two filed by Zaffar Ullah and two Rohingyas Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir. While one plea challenged the Centre's decision to deport over 40,000 refugees who came to India, the other has sought several human and civic rights for the immigrants in New Delhi. The Rohingyas, who fled to India after violence in the Western Rakhine State of Myanmar, are settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan. The newly-appointed Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi on Wednesday said that 'parameters' will be worked out for urgent mentioning and hearing of cases and that 'no urgent mentioning of cases will be allowed' till the parameters are fixed. The newly-appointed Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi on Wednesday said that "parameters" will be worked out for urgent mentioning and hearing of cases and that "no urgent mentioning of cases will be allowed" till the parameters are fixed. "We will work out the parameters then we will see as to how mentioning will be done," he said. "If somebody is going to be hanged tomorrow, then we can understand (urgency)", the CJI said. In Supreme Court, Gogoi said: "No mentioning! We are working out the parameters.if someone is being released today, then yes.if someone is being hanged today, then yes.if somebody is being evicted today, then yes.if there is a risk of demolition, yes.beyond that, No!" In fact, when advocate Mathews J Nedumpara, while trying to mention a matter in the apex court, welcomed the newly-appointed CJI, Gogoi cut him short. Nedumpara reportedly said, "All the best as the captain of the ship," Gogoi said, "Mr Nedumpara, we dont need this. You are here to mention? No mentioning till parameters are worked out." The new CJI also refused to pass over a case. No pass over, argue your case," Gogoi remarked. When a counsel attempted to make a mention saying that he has flown all the way from Mumbai on Wednesday morning, Gogoi said, You may have flown in from anywhere." Subsequently, advocate Prashant Bhushan also sought to mention a plea in the light of attempts to deport seven Rohingya Muslims to Myanmar. But Gogoi declined to grant an immediate listing without perusing the contents of the application. We have already lost five minutes," Bar and Bench reported the CJI as saying. Until now mentioning for inter-alia early listing, tagging, filing interventions or replies was done before the first court (since the Chief Justice of India is the administrative head of the Supreme Court) only at 10.30 am everyday and the same would take around 20 minutes of the court. Earlier, during the tenure of Dipak Misra, the former CJI had put an end to the practice of lawyers mentioning urgent matters and had ordered for such cases to be mentioned before the top court's Registrar. However, the lawyers could approach the court of the CJI if they were aggrieved by the order of the Registrar. In January 2018, , besides the advocates-on-record (AoRs), the court had allowed junior lawyers to also mention cases before it for out-of-turn listing and urgent hearing, reports said. Misra had at that time remarked, "It is essential that the junior advocates also learn the art of mentioning. So they may too be allowed to make mentions besides the AORs, subject to the condition that they be very accurate." "Articulation and preparation are the two requests to junior counsels making mentions in the morning," he had urged. However, it was in Misra's tenure when a notification was issued in 2017 asking lawyers and litigants not to orally mention fresh cases before any other Supreme Court judge except before the bench presided over by the Chief Justice of India. It was Chief Justice MN Venkatachaliah who started the practice of barring senior advocates from mentioning. The tradition continued during the tenure of Chief Justice AM Ahmadi. However, the practice was diluted over the years and subsequently, CJI HL Dattu regulated it by introducing a queue system and allowing only one mentioning for one lawyer, a Bar and Bench report states. But even before CJI Dattu, it was during the tenure of CJI RM Lodha that guidelines were issued for oral mentioning of cases. According to these guidelines, the Deputy Registrar (Mentioning) would first process the request of mentioning. The Supreme Court Bar Association had also come up with suggestions to disallow unlisted, out of turn mentioning by senior advocates in fresh matters. It had suggested that mentioning in pending matters be made only before the bench hearing the matter and that fresh unlisted mentioning should be placed before the first five benches of the court, the report said. Meanwhile, CJI Gogoi also notified changes in the Supreme Court roster. While Public Interest Litigations (PILs) will still be heard by the CJI, some of would be listed before Justice MB Lokur as well, on directions by the CJI. Here is the roster of the work for fresh cases in the Supreme Court: Sachin Pilot retorted to Vasundhara Raje calling him a novice and referred to the party's victory in the Ajmer by-elections. Kota: Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot on Tuesday alleged that the farmers in the state were dying but Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje was busy in her 'Gaurav Yatra'. Pilot was addressing a public meeting in Sangod town of Kota district, held on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti. On Raje's reported claim that she would fight for the people of the state like a lioness, Pilot alleged that though she was a lioness, her biggest hunt was farmers. The 'moong daal' is being sold Rs 125 per kilogram, the prices of diesel and petrol are skyrocketing, and the farmers were not able to sell their crop at the government-support price, he said. The Congress leader retorted to Raje calling him a novice and referred to the party's victory in the Ajmer by-elections. The 41-year-old acknowledged that he needed to learn a lot in politics, but he could defeat Raje in the upcoming Assembly elections. Pilot asked the public to question the chief minister if she had ever been able to sleep soundly at night ever since he became the state party chief. "We have at several times in the past four-and-a-half years forced the BJP's state and central governments to kneel down before the pressure by the Congress in the interest of the public," he claimed. The state Congress chief also quipped at the perceived differences between Raje and BJP chief Amit Shah. Pilot said Raje had got no time to look at into the hut of the poor and said the chief minister was very busy as she has to "defend those who illegally-occupied government lands and to allot the mines to her near and dear ones". He added that Raje lost a golden opportunity regarding development and progress of the state as her party was in power in the Centre too. The absence of publicly available information on whether a mosque forms an essential part of Islam highlights that perhaps in Ismail Faruqui too, the Supreme Court did not engage adequately with this issue, prompting Justice Nazeer to dissent from the majority opinion in the instant case. Last week, the Supreme Court in a ruling of 2:1 declined to refer to a larger bench the question whether a mosque is an essential part of Islam. The order was passed in one of the petitions (M Siddiq versus. Mahant Suresh Das) filed in connection with the ongoing Babri Masjid/Ram Mandir case (the Ayodhya land dispute) on the issue whether the 1994 Supreme Court ruling in Dr. M Ismail Faruqui versus. Union of India (a case concerning the acquisition by the Indian government of land on which the Babri Masjid once stood) that a mosque is not an essential part of Islam needed to be reconsidered by a larger bench. Ismail Faruqui involved the issue whether acquisition of religious places such as mosque, temple etc. by the State was violative of the right to freedom of religion under Article 25 of the Constitution. The Supreme Court, in this case held that the acquisition of a religious place where prayers are offered is not unconstitutional unless that place has a special significance for that religion so as to form an essential part of that religion. Justice Nazeer, the dissenting judge in M Siddiq case, referred to the constitutional tests (such as essentiality and integrality) to determine whether a practice/belief forms an essential part of a religion. While the majority held that a mosque cannot be considered an essential part of religion, it is interesting to note the majority opinion which leaves room for a mosque to be considered an essential part of Islam in certain cases. It is worth exploring the constitutional tests for determining the essential practices/customs of a religion and the circumstances in which a mosque could be considered an essential part of Islam. Dissenting opinion in M Siddiq Justice Nazeer relied on the Supreme Court judgment in The Commissioner, Hindu Religious Endowments, Madras versus Lakshmindra Thirtha Swamiar of Sri Shirur Mutt (1954 AIR 282) in which the court held that what constitutes an essential part of a religion must be determined with reference to the doctrines of that religion. Justice Nazeers observation that Ismail Faruqui should be brought in line with the courts ruling in Shirur Mutt is based on this that the court in Ismail Faruqui did not delve deeper into the evidence whether a mosque is essential to Islam. For instance, one could argue that congregational prayers are central to Islam, therefore, a mosque is essential to Islam as a mosque is a place for offering congregational prayers. In AS Narayana Deeshitulu versus. State of A.P (1996 (9) S.C.C 548), the Court confirmed that the essential or integral part of a religion must be determined from the doctrines of that religion according to its tenets, historical backgrounds and change in evolved process. In Ratilal Panachand Gandhi versus State of Bombay (AIR 1954 SC 388) which was decided about a month before Shirur Mutt, the court laid down that the yardstick for determining whether a religious practice is essential would be the doctrines of that religion. Difference between essential and non-essential part of a religion and why it matters Under Article 25 of the Constitution of India, all persons enjoy the right to freely practise their religion. The essentiality test was evolved by the Supreme Court to determine whether a religious practice was protected under Article 25. The difference between an essential and non-essential religious practice is crucial inasmuch as an essential practice of a religion is beyond interference by the State and subject only to the restrictions on the basis of the grounds contained in Article 25. On the other hand, a non-essential religious practice is not a fundamental right and can be restricted by the State on any reasonable ground. For instance, the Supreme Court applied the test recently to conclude that the ban on the entry of women (in the age group 10-50 years) in the Sabarimala temple was not an essential practice of the Hindu religion and therefore, the ban was liable to be struck down. In Amnah Bint Basheer versus Central Board of Secondary Education (W.P. (C) No. 6813 of 2016 (B)), the Kerala High Court held that the CBSE dress code proscribing hijabs was unconstitutional as wearing of hijab by Muslim women is an essential part of their religion. M. Siddiq (the petition for reconsideration of the Supreme Court ruling in Ismail Faruqui) was filed in connection with the ongoing Ayodhya land dispute case wherein the Allahabad High Court decision dividing the Ayodhya land (the site of the Babri Masjid) into three parts has been challenged before the Supreme Court. The Muslim parties argue that the division of land (with two-thirds awarded to the Hindu parties and one-third to Muslims) is not fair; the Muslims argue that the 1994 Ismail Faruqui ruling influenced the Allahabad High Court's division of the land. Hence, the petition for reconsideration of Ismail Faruqui. While the Supreme Court in its majority opinion in M Siddiq states that the Ismail Faruqui judgment will not have a bearing on the Ayodhya land dispute case, the dissenting opinion expressed the need to refer Ismail Faruqui to a larger Bench given its relevance to the land dispute case. Irrespective of the majority ruling, the issue of determining what constitutes an essential part of a religion is important in the context of recent developments ranging from the judgment concerning the ban on entry of women in the Sabarimala temple to the triple talaq ordinance. Is mosque an essential part of Islam? Al-Islam.org, a website by the non-profit organisation Ahlul Bayt Digital Islamic Library Project, emphasises the importance of congregational prayer (salat al-jamaah) as stated in the hadiths (regarded as one of the sources of Sharia law). Unfortunately, there is very little evidence to either confirm or refute the view that a mosque is essential in Islam inasmuch as a Muslim male must offer prayers in a mosque. In Ismail Faruqui, the Supreme Court was of the view that prayers could also be offered in the open and not necessarily in a mosque. According to QuranExplorer.com, praying in a mosque is not compulsory but highly recommended for Muslims (except on Fridays when it is compulsory for Muslim men to pray in mosques). Arab News highlights that in Islam offering congregational prayers in a mosque brings the worshipper 27 times more reward than praying alone. The absence of publicly available information on whether a mosque forms an essential part of Islam highlights that perhaps in Ismail Faruqui too, the Supreme Court did not engage adequately with this issue, prompting Justice Nazeer to dissent from the majority opinion in the instant case. In future, if the court is called upon to adjudicate on this issue, it must apply the test laid down in Shirur Mutt and decide the issue in accordance with the religious doctrines in Islam by considering the views of Islamic scholars instead of giving into populist opinion. The author holds a Master of Law (LL.M.) degree from University of Cambridge The Supreme Court while upholding the Gujarat High Court judgement sentencing one Hemudan Nanbha Gadhvi to 10 years in jail for raping a nine-year-old girl in 2004 relied on the medical report of the survivor which confirmed the sexual assault. New Delhi: Acquitting rape accused individuals merely because the survivor turned hostile and failed to identify him in the dock, would indeed be a "travesty of justice", the Supreme Court said while affirming the conviction of a rape accused. A bench of Justice Ranjan Gogoi, Justice Navin Sinha and Justice KM Joseph opined that neither the accused nor the survivor can be permitted to subvert a criminal trial by stating falsehood and resort to contrivances, so as to make it the "theatre of the absurd". Dispensation of justice in a criminal trial is a "serious matter" and "cannot be allowed to become a mockery" by simply allowing prime witnesses to turn hostile as a ground for acquittal, the top court said. The apex court while upholding the Gujarat High Court judgement sentencing one Hemudan Nanbha Gadhvi to 10 years in jail for raping a nine-year-old girl in 2004 relied on the medical report of the survivor which confirmed the sexual assault. The survivor 's mother had lodged a complaint with the police and the girl had identified the accused during the Test Identification Parade (TIP). However, a trial court acquitted Gadhvi after the survivor turned hostile. Later, the High Court convicted him saying her deposition was recorded six months after the incident and accused had sufficient time to settle the issue. "If the medical evidence had not confirmed sexual assault on the prosecutrix (survivor), the TIP and identification therein were doubtful, corroborative evidence was not available, entirely different considerations may have arisen," said the apex court. "It would indeed be a travesty of justice in the peculiar facts of the present case if the appellant (accused) were to be acquitted merely because the prosecutrix (survivor ) turned hostile and failed to identify the appellant in the dock, in view of the other overwhelming evidence available," it said. On the issue of the survivor turning hostile during the trial, the top court said that this was an appropriate case to direct the prosecution of the survivor for tendering false evidence. However, the bench refrained itself from doing so considering that the survivor was barely nine years old at the time of the incident which happened 14 years ago. "She may have since been married and settled to a new life, all of which may possibly be jeopardised, we refrain from directing her prosecution, which we were otherwise inclined to order," the apex court said. Suspected militants abducted a 30-year-old man from Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Wednesday. Srinagar: Suspected militants abducted a 30-year-old man from Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Wednesday, police said. Tauseef Ahmad was kidnapped by the unidentified gunmen from his shop at Unisoo in Sopore town, 55 km from Srinagar, a police officer said. Security forces have launched an operation to rescue the abducted person, the officer added. The Rafale controversy took a new turn in September after Francois Hollande was quoted as saying that France was given 'no choice' on selection of the Indian partner for Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of Rafale jets. New Delhi: Congress president Rahul Gandhi Wednesday took a swipe at the Modi government and Anil Ambani over the Rafale issue, saying that in order to bag India's biggest defence contracts one has to be a "defaulter of Rs 45,000 crore" and have "no relevant experience". The Opposition led by the Congress has been accusing the government of benefitting Ambani's Reliance Defence Ltd. from the Rafale deal. "Modi's Operandi for handing out India's biggest defence contracts - Be a defaulter of Rs 45,000 crore - Owe money to other companies who beg Supreme Court not to let you leave India - Be called 'Bhai' by Modi but have no relevant experience," Gandhi said in a tweet. He also cited a media report claiming that Swedish telecom equipment company Ericsson has petitioned the Supreme Court to prevent Ambani and two senior executives from his group from leaving the country after accusing them of willfully defaulting in previously promised payment of Rs 550 crore by alleged abuse of process of law. In a statement on Tuesday, Reliance Communications Limited termed Ericsson's filing as "unwarranted". Reliance Communications said it has already filed an application on 28 September in the Supreme Court, praying for extension of time for making payment to Ericsson by 60 days. The Rafale controversy took a new turn in September after Francois Hollande, who was French president when the Rs 58,000 crore deal was announced, was quoted as saying by French publication Mediapart that France was given "no choice" on selection of the Indian partner for Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of Rafale jets "The Indian government proposed the name of Reliance as offset partner for the French aerospace giant," he said. The BJP and Reliance Defence have dismissed all the allegations made by the Opposition on the Rafale issue as false. Modi had announced the procurement of 36 Rafale fighters after holding talks with Hollande on 10 April, 2015, in Paris. Tripura chief minister Biplab Kumar Deb said that the new syllabus would soon be introduced. Tripura chief minister Biplab Kumar Deb on Tuesday complained about the syllabus in schools, and said that the textbooks were teaching students "only" about former Soviet Union president Joseph Stalin and communist leader Vladimir Lenin, instead of Indian leaders. He said that his government is working to introduce new NCERT syllabus to focus on Indian leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, former president Late APJ Abdul Kalam, reported The Indian Express. Addressing an event at Tripura University, Deb alleged that the syllabus is schools and colleges ''seemed to have been prescribed by a political party". It is very tough to see Indian history in textbooks these days. All that they have are Stalin, Lenin and the Russian Revolution," he said. Tuesday's comments by the Tripura chief minister are the latest in his string of bizarre and controversial statements. On Saturday, Deb said that one of Narendra Modi's brothers drives an auto rickshaw, while another is a grocer. "Their mother lives in a 10x12 room tell me is there any prime minister like this in the world?" he was quoted as saying by NDTV. In August, he had suggested that ducks be added to Tripura's water bodies as it would lead to rise in oxygen levels in the water and which would help fishes breathe better. Earlier in May, he had also claimed that Rabindranath Tagore had rejected his Nobel prize in protest against the British government. In the past, Deb was also mocked over social media for statements on the internet being invented at the time of the Mahabharata, and that Gautam Buddha had crossed the sea by foot to reach Japan. Two women and a three-year-old child died as they fell into a well while performing a puja in suburban Vile Parle in Mumbai Tuesday. Two women and a three-year-old child died, while five were injured, as they fell into a well while performing puja in suburban Vile Parle in Mumbai Tuesday. Speaking to ANI, an NDRF personnel said: "Three people are dead and five have been injured in the incident. Now we are pumping out water from the well. Although nobody has been reported missing, we are continuing our search." The injured were taken to Cooper Hospital, where they are undergoing treatment. A fire brigade official said the incident happened near Dixit Road in Vile Parle (East) around 6.30 pm. Some women were performing puja sitting on the iron grill on the mouth of a 30-feet deep well, he said. The grill suddenly gave in and the women fell into the well. According to a report in Hindustan Times, around 14 people fell into the well of which 11 were rescued safely. Two women were rescued by locals before the fire brigade officials could arrive. The fire brigade rescued a five-year-old boy and a 14-year-old girl. Later, a team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was also called in to help with the search and rescue operations. However, two women Madhvi Pandey (49), Renu Yadav (20) and a girl named Divya (3) drowned, the official said. With inputs from PTI In order to develop and establish formal platform for cooperation in the transport and highways sector, the MoU has jointly been negotiated and finalised by both countries. New Delhi: The government on Wednesday approved a pact between India and Russia for mutual cooperation in the road transport and highways sector. The decision was taken during the Cabinet meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. "The memorandum of understanding (MoU) will be signed during the upcoming visit of Russian president to India," a statement from the Road Transport and Highways Ministry said. In order to develop and establish formal platform for cooperation in the transport and highways sector, the MoU has jointly been negotiated and finalised by both countries, it said. "Both the countries will benefit by mutual cooperation in the field... Increased co-operation, exchange and collaboration with Russia will contribute to establish a long-term and effective bilateral relationship of communication and cooperation in road transportation and road industry and Intelligent Transport System (ITS)," the statement said. This will also help in planning and administration of road infrastructure and road network management, transport policy, technologies and standards for the construction and operation of highways in the country and will further go a long way in strengthening ties and bilateral relations between India and Russia, it added. The statement said Russia has developed technological solutions for satellite-based tolling solutions. Similarly, they have also adopted advanced intelligent traffic management systems, including crash reporting/monitoring systems, it said. "Considering Russia's proven experience in adoption of technology in the road transport sector, it would be beneficial to learn from such best practices through close interaction. India is implementing at a rapid pace its highway infrastructure augmentation plans. To make full use of the road infrastructure it is necessary to embrace technology to enhance transport productivity and safety," the statement said. Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited the hospital on Wednesday to enquire about the health of the Union minister. New Delhi: Union minister of rural development, panchayati raj, and mines Narendra Singh Tomar was admitted to the All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) after he complained of uneasiness due to a sudden increase in sugar levels, sources at the hospital said on Tuesday. He was admitted to the old private ward of the AIIMS in New Delhi. Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited the hospital on Wednesday to enquire about the health of the Union minister. His condition is being monitored by a team of doctors, the sources said. Veteran TDP leader MVVS Murthy died in a car crash in the US on Wednesday after the vehicle he was travelling in collided with a truck on a highway near Alaska. He was 76 Veteran Telugu Desam Party leader MVVS Murthy died in a car crash in the US on Wednesday. The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Council member died along with three others when their vehicle collided with a truck on a highway near Alaska. He was 76. He also served as a member of Lok Sabha from Visakhapatnam for two terms from 1991 to 1996 and 1999 to 2004. The MLC was on his way to a wildlife sanctuary when the accident occurred on Monday afternoon (US time). Murthy had gone to the US to take part in the Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (GITAM) alumni meet on 6 October. Telugu Association of North America members are coordinating with the US authorities to bring the TDP leader's body back to the state. Murthy had been an active leader of the TDP since 1983 and had a close association with the party's founder-president NT Rama Rao. He founded the Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (GITAM) at Rushikonda near Visakhapatnam, which has now been granted a "deemed to-be university" status with campuses in Hyderabad and Bengaluru. He served as Chairman of Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority from 1987 to 1989 and lost the 1989 Lok Sabha election. In 1991, he was elected to Parliament from Visakhapatnam for the first time and again in 1999. A doctorate in economics from Andhra University, Murthy established many colleges in his native East Godavari and other districts. He also owned a soft drinks bottling plant in Visakhapatnam and became popular as 'Goldspot' Murthy. He was elected to the Legislative Council in 2014 from the Visakhapatnam Local Authorities constituency. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, his deputies KE Krishna Murthy, N China Rajappa, Council Chairman NM Farook, Assembly Speaker Kodela Sivaprasada Rao, ministers and MPs condoled Murthy's death. "I was shocked to learn about the death of Murthy. His services as an MP and an MLC are memorable. His death is a deep loss to the field of education and also politics. It is a personal loss to me," Naidu said in a message. He also expressed anguish over the death of many TDP leaders in road accidents. Deputy Chief Minister Krishna Murthy recalled that he and Murthy were elected to the Lok Sabha for the first time in 1991. "I lost a good friend," he said. Ministers Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, KK Venkata Rao, Kalava Srinivasulu, Sidda Raghava Rao, N Lokesh, MPs Kesineni Srinivas, Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar, MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, former MP C Ramachandraiah and several others condoled 'GITAM' Murthys death. With inputs from PTI Hundreds of ASHA workers gathered in Bhopal on Tuesday to demand regularisation of their pay, which took the administration by surprise. An ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) worker fell off a wireless tower on Tuesday in Bhopal's Polytechnic Chauraha during a protest to demand an increase in their wages, ANI reported. The injured worker has been taken to Gandhi Medical College. #WATCH: An ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) worker falls off a wireless tower at Polytechnic Chauraha in Bhopal during the workers' protest demanding an increase in their minimum salary. The injured worker has been taken to Gandhi Medical College. #MadhyaPradesh pic.twitter.com/4iORUuRolR ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 According to a report in the Free Press Journal, hundreds of ASHA workers gathered in Bhopal on Tuesday to demand regularisation of their pay, which took the administration by surprise. The protesters attempted to march to the Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's home but were restricted to the nearby Polytechnic Square, the report added. The protesting ASHA workers had pointed out that officials of the National Rural Health Mission are provided respectable salaries and benefits, but they had been forced to take to the streets because they have been deprived. The agitating workers also put up a road blockade. With input from agencies Although there is much written about the importance of literary awards, how often do we know about what makes up the profile of the award-winning authors? For a majority of us, our first encounter with race would have come from reading the Pulitzer winning classic To Kill a Mockingbird. We may have chosen to ignore it because it is about racism, or may have picked it up because it is a classic. We may have then gone on to read Toni Morrison, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature, the first African American woman to do so. Books like these permeate our minds, shaping our understanding of the world around us. Literary awards are a popular way of acknowledging meritorious works and authors. They often bring otherwise unknown authors into the spotlight and attract people to new books. For example, just being in the shortlist for the Man Booker 2017, got two debut novels by first-time authors to the limelight. Winning awards improves recognition for the authors and signifies inclusion to a group of elite writers, as it did for Arundhati Roy in 1997. Awards that recognise work in languages that are not commonly spoken provide the much-needed boost these dying languages require, often by their addition to the literary canon. Amrita Pritam, for instance, wrote primarily in Punjabi, and is very much a part of the Indian literary canon. In order for these literary works to flourish in India, the National Academy of Letters known as the Sahitya Akademi was set up in 1952. The Sahitya Akademi awards are considered the highest honour in the field of literature and art. The Akademi gives 24 awards annually to literary works in the languages it has recognised and an equal number of awards to literary translations from and into the languages of India, both after a year-long process of scrutiny, discussion, and selection. Another such award is the Jnanpith Award which is an Indian literary award presented annually by the Bharatiya Jnanpith to an author for their "outstanding contribution towards literature." Instituted in 1961, the award is bestowed only on Indian writers writing in Indian languages. Along with organisations that acknowledge literary works, newspapers such as The Hindu have the Hindu Literary Prize for Indian works in English and English translations. This award was instituted in 2010 by the Hindu Literary Review. Although there is much written about the importance of literary awards, how often do we know about what makes up the profile of the award-winning authors? Does the list of award-winners include more males than female authors? Which state do they come from? What religion do they practice and how are the caste groups represented among this elite writers club? Are there certain groups that dominate the award-winning authors? Since these awards get covered in the media and spoken about during literary festivals it is important that the award winners are adequately represented. To illustrate the importance of media portrayals, Cory L Armstrong and Michelle R Nelson, from the Universities of Alabama and Illinois respectively studied how newspaper sources trigger gender stereotypes. They noted that a common way gender stereotypes form is due to the medias representation of women. For example, if stories of award-winning authors only represent upper-caste Hindu male authors, then the reader would assume that only this particular group produces work that is worthy of awards. More pressingly, they would also assume this narrow worldview as the universal worldview that is, they could further assume that Hindu male narratives is the Indian narrative, when thats obviously not true. To explore these questions and more, we choose four awards acknowledging the authors and their work, specific to India. The awards selected are the Jnanpith Awards (from 1965 to 2017), which awards the authors' achievements and work over a lifetime; the Sahitya Akademi (SA) Award in English (from 1960 to 2017) and the Sahitya Akademi Award in Hindi (from 1955 to 2017); and the Hindu Literary Prize (from 2010 to 2015). We gathered information on the caste of the author, their religion, gender, and details on the genre of the award-winning work. Overall, awards have been conferred upon 173 authors. Genre The four awards are not specific to any particular genre; they are given to literary works spanning different genres. For the sake of our analysis, Poetry has been taken as a separate category. We have clubbed novels, short stories, plays/dramas, and satire under Fiction, while Non-Fiction consisted of autobiographies, biographies, and literary criticism, amongst others. About half of the awards went to authors who authored works in fiction, while works on poetry received a quarter of the awards. Gender The gender distribution across the 173 recipients is represented in the graph below. Women make up only 17 percent of the award winners. Out of the 58 Jnanpith awardees, only 8 (13.8 percent) were women. The SA awards for English and Hindi constituted of 28.3 percent and 6.5 percent female award winners respectively. The Hindu Literary Prize has had one female award recipient in the seven years it has been active. Among the 50 novels across the four awards, female and male authors typically produce works from a third person point of view. In fact, 74 percent of the novels that won these awards were written in third person: 78.5 percent for female authors and 72.2 percent for male authors. Usually, novels that use a third person point of view tend to focus on the social and other environmental contexts, and hence are outward-looking. Thus, it seems that authors who write books that serve as social commentary tend to win more awards equally true for both men and women authors. Even though female authors won less awards, this is not to say that works by male or female authors differed in their popular appeal. When analysing the data on gender distribution, we looked at the ratings that readers on Goodreads (a platform that allows you to catalogue the books you read) assigned to male and female authors. We sourced how readers reacted to each of the award-winning books on Goodreads: each book can be rated (from 0 to 5 stars) and reviewed by the users of the platform. Readers enjoyed an average of 3.98 stars for books by female authors, compared to 3.22 stars for books by male authors for the SA (English) awards. The fact that women writers do not win many awards despite their books being equally well-liked is problematic. That after a long process of scrutiny, discussion and selection, it is hard to believe that women achieved outstanding status only 17 percent of the time. The implication that women take up only a small space in high-brow literary culture is hard to miss. While we may have scratched the surface of talking about gender inequality in various sectors, the conversation has not seeped into the area of publishing and literature. Our finding exemplifies the well-demonstrated argument that women have been systematically marginalised in both production and performance practices in cultural and media industries. The fact that women have been largely excluded from literary awards is more upsetting because these awards often come with a monetary prize and artistic prestige. The field of literary criticism is largely male-dominated, disadvantaging female writers further. That men constitute a significantly large proportion of the area of criticism might make them unsympathetic to not just female writers in general, but also to books written from the perspective of a female protagonist. It is difficult to escape the fact that these critics deem women unworthy of this literary merit. The overall sentiment that women might not be equal is further echoed by eminent writers and critics, making their paths to success even more difficult. This trend could be exacerbated, of course, because entire sub-genres (like Romance) are written off as unworthy of literary merit perhaps because of the fact that their readership is predominantly female. Religion We further collected data on the authors religion at birth. An overwhelming majority of the awards were given out to Hindus (80.6 percent), while only 2.9 percent of the winners were Muslims at birth. The 9.4 percent others include Jews, Parsis, and also authors whose religion was not available online. The Jnanpith Award has 86.2 percent Hindus. The SA English has 58.7 percent Hindus, 4.3 percent Jews, 4.3 percent Parsis, and 6.5 percent Christians. On the other hand, 91.9 percent of SA Hindi recipients consists of Hindus. However, out of the seven Hindu Literary Prize award winners, there were three Hindus; one atheist, Buddhist and Roman Catholic each, and one author whose religion is not known. This trend is not surprising as 79.80 percent of the Indian population identifies as Hindu. Out of the 173 works analysed, 50 were novels. For these, we investigated whether authors of a particular religion created their protagonists who followed the same religion. In other words, do authors experiences following a particular religion (or lack thereof) influence the religion the protagonist is thought to follow? This being said, the authors may not have intentionally assigned the same religion (or not) as their own to the characters they create. Our data shows that, out of the 50 novels, in 23 (46 percent) instances, authors religion corresponds with the religion of their protagonists, and an overwhelming 54 percent of the protagonists were clearly Hindu. Another five percent are assumed to be Hindus, based on their names and other descriptions. This hints towards how much of the world the author creates in their novels is shaped by their immediate social environment. And because most of these authors are Hindu, the predominant voice we hear is the Hindu one a rather narrow outlook for us to have. Many novels in English also take place in major cities like Mumbai or Delhi, and many Hindi novels are set in the cities of Uttar Pradesh. This suggests that most of our outstanding literary works tell one kind of story the privileged one. One way to correct for this yawning gender gap is to have more diversity on the selection and judging panels of these awards. The authors could not find any such information available online. Caste Keeping in mind that the counting of caste as a category by the State through its census is a hotly contested issue, we clubbed certain caste groups under high caste (Brahmin, Vaishya, Kayastha, Baniya, Bhumihar, Karana etc) and the others under low caste (Scheduled caste, scheduled tribe etc). There are differing opinions on whether caste as a category in the census surveys should be included or not a debate that also applies to this article. Some scholars claim that the census classifications merely reflect social realities and that by collating data on caste, we hold up a mirror to society. The other school of thought condemns this by claiming that census and all such data gathering only serve to actively create inequalities and divisions in society. The third, middle ground claims that the caste system itself predates the colonial Raj and their methods of data collection and recording. While the census may have exacerbated the caste divisions it existed in a context that was already riddled with caste divisions. The caste system itself, specifically the varna classification of Brahmins (priests), Kshatriyas (warriors), Vaishyas (traders), and Shudras (peasants) was devised by the Brahmins themselves who were at the top of this hierarchy something we acknowledged as flawed and unjust. We also acknowledge that the information available online on the caste of the authors may not be accurate. For 12 percent of the authors, caste was not applicable (NA) because they were either non-Hindus or identified as atheists. For 22.3 percent of the award recipients, the caste was not explicitly mentioned and our research did not reflect clear caste demarcations, hence they were marked as No information (NI). During our research, we found that caste groups and names vary across states and regions in India and to place them within the four traditional caste divisions of Brahmin, Vaishya, Kshatriya, and Shudra/Untouchables was a difficult task. During our research if the caste of the author was not explicitly mentioned, we tried searching for the last name of the author instead and saw if that gave us clues to the author's caste. Often the same last names are used by different caste groups and this also varies across the regions of India. For instance, Cyrus Mistry, who won the SA (English) prize, was the brother of Rohinton Mistry. While not much about Cyrus Mistry was available, we assumed that he was also Parsi, based on information available about Rohinton Mistry. While this might reduce accuracy, it seemed the best possible way to collate the data available to us. Across the four selected awards, we found 62.3 percent of the authors belonged to the High caste group and only 3.4 percent authors belonged to the low caste group. Those from lower castes only won the SA (Hindi) award, but not the other three. This is, however, a very rough estimate and the actual figures may vary considerably. This trend is alarming because it reflects how works written by those belonging to a lower caste are thought of as unmeritorious to receive a literary prize. For example, that only the Sahitya Akademi (Hindi) prize constituted those from a conspicuously lower caste, is appalling. The question of whose stories get told and by whom is a crucial discussion, and this is true even in literature. This is not just a matter of being politically correct the stories that get lauded enter our canons, and hence our collective conscious. Who doesnt remember Meerabais laments, or Premchands stories? While in some regional languages like Marathi, Dalit literature has been a formidable force; such literature has not graced very many works in languages like Hindi and English (which were the focus of our analyses) until recent times. Of course, this also has to do with the fact that a lot of their history was oral in nature. Whether they were oral by choice or circumstance is debatable. Untouchables have been systematically denied access to educational institutes historically leaving them with little to no options. Oral histories were one such outlet (or form of protest), wherein they could tell their stories, while also asserting their identity in a predominantly upper caste sphere. To highlight the importance of Dalit writers writing about caste politics through the work of writer Perumal Murugan: Caste emerged as a legitimate subject of contemporary literature with Dalit writing. Literature produced by Dalit writers set new standards for representation devoted as it was to describing the hypocrisy, cruelty and violence of our social order. It is a commentary in the context of the everyday labour relations and sexual cultures. This literature proved unsettling, and challenged the implicit caste imagination at work in most texts and thus rendered caste as much an aesthetic category as a social one. (In 2017, the English translation of Murugan's novel Madhorubhagan, or One Part Woman, by Aniruddhan Vasudevan, won the Sahitya Akademi's Translation Prize.) That not very many authors from lower castes have been lauded has to do with similar forms of oppression. For instance, our understanding of Indian literature in English is primarily limited to upper-caste authors like Premchand or Arundhati Roy, even if they did write Dalit characters. However, this cannot be Dalit literature, because as the prominent Dalit writer Sharankumar Limbale opines their literature is shaped by the lived experiences of Dalit, peppered by their pain, suffering and feeling of rebellion and anger. Even professors and students of English literature tend to be predominantly upper caste. While Dalit literature is being acknowledged more and more, this trend is not being reflected in the awards that are being given out. We are aware that our data regarding caste groups is not verifiable, that could be because many authors do not come out as belonging to a lower caste. This attempt to erase caste, by trying to pass as an upper-caste person (and hence normal and worthy) is a problem in itself. Authors State of origin (Overall) Here is a map representing the authors from each state. We further collected data on authors' state of origin across all four awards. We found that the highest number of authors hailed from Uttar Pradesh (48) which represents 16.50 percent of the national population, while Maharashtra was second with 14 authors hailing from this state which forms 9.28 percent of the national population. Most states like Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland have only one author representing each of them. The southern states of Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu contribute 18 percent of the total number of authors. There is a contradiction present here since Kerala has a literacy rate of 94 percent while Uttar Pradesh is at 67.68 percent. There are 11 authors who were born in present-day Pakistan or Bangladesh who have not been represented in the map. State of origin for two authors was unavailable. This major skew towards authors from Uttar Pradesh might be because of the inclusion of an entire category of awards for Hindi works. Even when SA (Hindi) works were excluded, Uttar Pradesh was the home of the most number of authors (10), while Kerala and Karnataka had seven authors each, and six were from Maharashtra. Twenty-two states were represented overall. While the other awards we covered were specific to a particular language, Jnanpith is given to authors for a body of work and not for a specific work, across languages. Authors who wrote in Hindi (11) and Kannada (eight) were the highest numbers of Jnanpith award winners. This is corroborated with the fact that the most number of authors are from Uttar Pradesh (48) and Karnataka (12). Authors writing in fifteen languages have been acknowledged so far. Conclusion This analysis is just a small step towards exploring the profiles of award-winning authors and their work. Even though the authors represented here are a tiny part of the larger population, the gaps in representation are indications of broader social attitudes. Our analysis corroborates the arguments surrounding prestigious cultural fields, wherein a certain type of people create the canon, thereby edging out the minority. While only sex, religious, caste minorities, and heteronormative gender were a focus of our analysis, non-heteronormative gender identities should also be explored. We do see a plethora of LGBTQ+, as well as Dalit authors writing in India, and asserting their authority; however, there is a long way to go before they enter our canons of essential texts. One step towards having more diversity among the award-winning authors is to have more diversity on the selection committees of these awards, while also consciously making choices to be more inclusive when deciding who gets to win these awards. Another recommendation is to have multiple awards. It is important to note that there are multiple social realities within which we function. Since literary merit often depends on the social context, literary awards should reflect these social realities. For instance, Ali Smiths Autumn would not have been written without the context of Brexit, and Amitav Ghoshs The Shadow Lines would not have been written without the context of Bangladeshs partition. And while multiple books by women are written off as domestic fiction, it is as important to acknowledge even the most banal stories as a legitimate reflection of their realities. The same holds true of books written by other minorities. That literary awards are a reflection of, and shape our culture is undebatable. We selected awards given out by the State (the Sahitya Akademi Award) and by private corporations (Jnanpith and The Hindu Literary Awards) and found that all of them lacked the necessary representation the authors deserve. It imperative that we correct this symbolic violence and acknowledge the merit of those works that do not fall under the purview of the majoritarian voice. We owe it to ourselves. Arathy Puthillam and Vedika Inamdar are Research Assistants at the Departments of Psychology and Sociology, respectively, at Monk Prayogshala. On the Opposition calling the Mizo National Front (MNF) 'proxy' of the BJP, Ram Madhav termed it 'ridiculous'. Aizawl: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would fight all the 40 assembly seats in Mizoram alone, but the party might forge an alliance with like-minded parties in a post-poll scenario, general secretary Ram Madhav said on Wednesday. Mizoram is the only state under the Congress in the Northeast at present. The saffron party has been making concerted efforts to win the state, after having formed governments on its own or joining hands with allies in all other Northeastern states. Addressing a press conference in Aizawl, Madhav, who is in charge of the Northeast, said the BJP would field candidates in all the 40 assembly seats in the state, where elections are due in December. In the 2013 assembly poll, the Congress had won 34 seats and made Lal Thanhawala the chief minister, while the BJP has no MLA at present. On the Opposition calling the Mizo National Front (MNF) "proxy" of the BJP, the general secretary termed it "ridiculous". "The party would contest against the MNF and the National People's Party in the polls, though they are constituents of North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA)," Madhav said. The NEDA is a political coalition formed in 2016 by the BJP, along with Northeast regional parties like Naga People's Front, Sikkim Democratic Front, People's Party of Arunachal, Asom Gana Parishad and Bodoland People's Front. Madhav asserted that the BJP "respected" the food habits, distinct cultural and customs of the Mizos and their religion. He accused the ruling Congress, headed by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla - in power for 10 years - of being corrupt and inefficient. "The Thanhawla regime did not create any basic infrastructural development during the last decade, though the Centre initiated and funded several developmental projects," the BJP leader said. "If voted to power, the BJP would construct a four-lane highway across the state, linking both Myanmar and Bangladesh," Madhav said. The proposed highway would ensure access to the international market and open the east-west corridor for trade. He added that engineering colleges would be established at Lunglei and Champhai districts if the saffron party wins. The by-election was necessitated as large number of panchayat samiti members resigned after the BJP-IPFT government assumed office on 3 March. Agartala: The ruling BJP swept the panchayat by-election in Tripura by winning 113 out of 130 gram panchayat seats, State Election Commissioner GK Rao said on Wednesday. The BJP also won five out of the seven panchayat samiti seats, he said. The Indigenous Peoples Front of Tripura (IPFT), an ally of BJP won nine gram panchayat seats, the SEC said. The Opposition Congress and CPM won four gram panchayat seats respectively, Rao said. The by-election for the 132 gram panchayat seats and seven panchayat samity seats was held on 30 September. The state election commission declared for re-polling in two gram panchayat seats in Khowai block of Khowai district on 5 October and results would be announced on 7 October, Rao said. On 1 September, the State Election Commissioner had announced by-elections in 3,207 gram panchayats seats, 161 panchayat samiti seats and 18 seats of Zilla Parishad. The by-election was necessitated as large number of panchayat samiti members resigned after the BJP-IPFT government assumed office on 3 March. BJP won in over 96 percent of the seats where by-election was announced without contest as Opposition parties did not file any nomination papers in those seats, officials said. For the first time in the electoral history of Jammu and Kashmir, the Bharatiya Janata Party is likely to take control of at least seven municipal committees in Kashmir Valley without even contesting the elections For the first time in the electoral history of Jammu and Kashmir, the Bharatiya Janata Party is likely to take control of, at least, seven municipal committees in Kashmir Valley unopposed in the elections. This comes after the two main regional parties National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party decided to boycott the urban local body polls in protest against the Centre's plan to scrap the special status of the state. At least 60 candidates of the BJP have won their seats unopposed, and a majority of them fall in the volatile region of south Kashmir where, out of 20 municipalities in five districts, only four are likely to go to polls. The municipalities which are likely to be headed by BJP candidates are Devsar, Qazigund, Pahalgam, and Ashmuqam in south Kashmir, and Shopian and Sopore towns of north Kashmir. "We have 350 candidates contesting in 600 municipal wards spread across 10 districts of the Valley. Our 60 candidates have won without fighting the elections. Out of them, six are Kashmiri Pandits, Altaf Thakur, the BJP's spokesperson in Srinagar, said on Tuesday at his office. "After the first phase of nominations for elections was over, the rush of the candidates increased. We had to select among dozens of candidates. People have reposed faith in democracy and we will live up to their expectations," Thakur said. The 624 wards in Jammu and Kashmir are scheduled to go for the four-phase polls from 8 to 16 October. The National Conference and PDPs decision to not fight the elections seems to have played a big role in handing over these municipalities on a platter to the BJP. What has surprised many is the Congress inability to field candidates in many of the seats in one of the most volatile seats of Sopore which is represented in the state Assembly by the Congress. "There is an atmosphere of fear in Sopore town and its adjoining areas, especially after a spate of mysterious killings due to which we could not find any candidate," a senior Congress leader said, wishing anonymity. On 29 September, the biggest surprise came when a former militant, Farooq Ahmad Khan, alias Saifullah, who gave up arms under the 2010 rehabilitation policy announced by the Omar Abdullah government for Kashmiri militants living in Pakistan, was selected as a candidate from old city Srinagar city. Khan says there is no problem in being a former militant who gave up the path of violence and wants to lead a normal life. "After I came back (from across the LoC) under the rehabilitation policy, people like me have been facing many hardships. Some have even committed suicide. Even children of many returnees were not allowed to join schools," he said. "People might ask why I fought on a BJP ticket but I would like to tell them that unless and until we engage with the political circumstances surrounding us, nothing will be solved. And I will work with dedication for the people who were given false hopes in all these years, Khan said. The municipal polls will be held in four phases across Jammu and Kashmir on 8, 10, 13 and 16 October in which 16,97,291 electors are eligible to vote in around 1,145 wards. The biggest militant organisation in the Valley, Hizbul Mujahideen, has threatened to carry out acid attacks against people who contest in the elections and those who file nomination papers. Without taking any risk, many candidates, particularly from south Kashmir, were put up in hotels in Srinagar, the capital, by the state administration. The state government also announced recently that the candidates, who will contest the municipal and Panchayat polls, will be covered under an attractive life insurance policy. Out of the 78 uncontested wards, 30 fall in southern Kashmir, the epicentre of the ongoing crisis in Kashmir following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani, while 24 wards are in central Kashmir and 15 in north Kashmir. There are a total of 79 municipal bodies in Jammu and Kashmir, which include two municipal corporations, six municipal councils and 71 municipal committees. "These elections are the first step for restoring the rule of law, bringing governance at the doorsteps of the people and strengthening democracy at the grassroots level. With our party set to emerge victorious, Jammu and Kashmir will see a new era of development, Thakur said. So far, the people have not responded to Rahuls angry outbursts against Modi At Sevagram in Wardha, Sonia and Rahul Gandhi washed their steel plates after lunch on Tuesday. The pictures were purposefully leaked by an insider to the media to suggest that mother and son, former and serving Congress president, were committed to the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi. That, perhaps was their way to associate with Mahatmas thrust on swachhta (cleanliness) and self-help. In politics, symbolism carries meaning, but it becomes meaningful only if such acts are followed by some plan of action, effective work on the ground and a continued adherence in life. What concerns people at large, polity and Indian society, is the resolution officially adopted by the Congress Working Committee under chairmanship of Rahulin the presence of Sonia, the guiding light of partythat Congress is launching a second Independence movement to oust the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, just as the Congress launched the Quit India movement against the British in 1942, under the leadership of the Mahatma. The Congress resolution passed on Tuesday notes at the outset: At the end of its intensive nine-day meeting at Sevagram, the CWC on 14 July, 1942, adopted the Quit India resolution demanding immediate independence for our country... Today, a new freedom struggle is the urgent need of the houra massive movement to combat the forces of divisiveness and prejudice, to confront the Modi government whose politics is the politics of threat and intimidation, the politics of polarisation and divisiveness, the politics of crushing debate and dissent, the politics of imposing an artificial uniformity in a nation of extraordinary diversity, the politics of hate and vendetta, the politics of subverting all constitutional values, principles and practices, the politics of lies, deceit, fraud and subterfuge. The way the Congress planned their Wardha programme and drafted their resolution gives one the sense that the party wants to put their chief on same pedestal as the Mahatma and expects him to engender the same sort of mass mobilisation against Modi and the BJP as the Mahatma did against the British. In effect, post May 2019, the Congress wants a Modi-mukt Bharat. After all the criticism it made against Modi for his 2014 poll catch phrase (Congress-mukt Bharat), the Congress leadership is attempting to treat the same path, albeit without saying it in as many words. The question: Does the Congress resolution to launch a second independence movement have the desired popular support? So far, the people have not responded to Rahuls angry outbursts against Modi:Gabbar Singh, sainiko ke khoon ki dalali, Hindustan ka chowkidar chor hai, thug ka sardar and so on. The last parliamentary election and state Assembly elections in in two dozen states since 2014 proved that the people have rejected the Congress chief's call and reposed their faith in Modi. Neither the Congress resolution, nor Rahuls speech at the meet, outlined how it would unleash a second independence movement to throw the Modi-led BJP out of power. Its resolution gave a slight hint: The Quit India Movement launched under leadership of Mahatma Gandhi was an unprecedented, spontaneous peoples uprising to bring freedom for our country from colonial rule. Ironically, around the time Congress brass were meeting in Sevagram to lay claim to be the rightful inheritors of the Mahatmas legacy, Modi was holding a programme of public significance: Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention where United Nations Secretary General, representatives of 50 nations and a lot of people working in this area from various parts of the country were present. Modi marked the 149th birth anniversary of the Mahatma with the pledge that India will be clean and free from open defecation by 2 October, 2019. Modis Swachh Bharat programme is centered around the Mahatma's philosophy of cleanliness. To show his respect for the Mahatma, Modi personally escorted foreign dignitaries such as Chinese president XI Jinping and Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe to Gujarat's Sabarmati Ashram. Congress leadership realises Modi is trying to appropriate the Mahatma's legacy, or is at the very least, trying not to allow the Congress to be the sole inheritor of his legacy. It partys resolution said: The CWC notes that appropriating Mahatmas legacy may be politically expedient for some, but imbibing his principles and values in thought, word and deed is impossible for those who see in the Mahatma only electoral opportunities. One may borrow the Mahatmas spectacles (Swachh Bharat logo) for publicity campaigns, but implementing his vision will remain unfulfilled unless his principles are followed. The Congress has only five to six months to turn its Wardha resolution of a new freedom movementinto a popular resolve to throw Modi and BJP out of power. For a change, the burden of expectations will be on Rahul. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Wednesday made it clear that her party will not enter into any alliance with the Congress. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Wednesday said her party would contest the upcoming Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan alone and accused the Congress of trying to "destroy" BSP through a mahagathbandhan (grand alliance). The BSP chief said there was no truth to rumours of the her party trying to ruin plans of a grand alliance. "The truth is that the Congress, through this mahagathbandhan, wants to destroy BSP. This means that the Congress, despite support from the Dalits and backward sections of the society, has a casteist and communal mindset like BJP. It has not worked for development for these sections of the society," Mayawati said at a press conference. Mayawati also added that Rahul and Sonia Gandhi were ready for an "acceptable alliance" but other Congress leaders were unwilling. "Congress leaders like Digvijaya Singh do not wish for a Congress-BSP alliance. They are afraid of agencies like ED and CBI," ANI quoted Mayawati as saying. "Digvijaya, who is also a BJP agent, is giving statements that Mayawati ji is under a lot of pressure from the Centre, so she doesnt want this alliance. This is baseless," she added. The BSP chief made it clear that her party will fight the upcoming elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh either on its own or with local parties' support. "Our party will not fight any elections with Congress at any cost," she said. "BSP will fight elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh alone. BSP has also decided to fight upcoming Chhattisgarh polls with local parties," Mayawati said. "I am saying these things so that Congress leaders know fully well that BSP is a party that has come out of the principle of equality, which focuses on the benefit of the backward sections of the society," she said. "The truth is that the Congress is scared of BJP and is scared of giving Muslim candidates a ticket to the election. But BSP does not do this," the BSP chief added. She said the Congress entered into an alliance with JD(S) in Karnataka out of fear of the BJP. "Congress' objective is not to defeat BJP but to target its allies... Congress is facing the results of its actions but is not improving its policies," she also said. "Congress' arrogance knows no bounds. They say that they will defeat BJP on their own. But the ground reality is that the people have punished the Congress and are not ready to forgive them. This is why BJP took advantage of this fact and is in power across many states today. And it is spreading politics of hatred based on casteism and communalism," she further said. "BSP has always supported Congress to avoid the casteist and communal politics of BJP. But Congress has instead betrayed BSP," Mayawati said, adding that she fully understood the importance of a grand alliance against BJP. "Earlier polls tell us that if BJP actually competes with Congress alone, it will succeed in forming a government easily," said the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister, adding that "the entire country knows that many votes of BSP are transferred to a party entering into an alliance with it." In response to Mayawati's remarks, Congress leader Randeep Surjewala said that if Mayawati had "absolute trust" in Sonia and Rahul Gandhi, "other creases can be ironed out". At times,out of emotions,sweet&bitter things are said. But at last,if Mayawati ji holds absolute trust in Rahul Gandhi&Sonia Gandhi then other creases can be ironed out:Randeep Surjewala,Congress on Mayawatis statement on issue of Congress-BSP alliance in upcoming assembly polls pic.twitter.com/R4s7reqXgI ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 "I don't think alliances are formed at press conferences," the Congress leader further said. tech2 News Staff HMD Global, which owns the Nokia brand, will reportedly be calling its upcoming flagship as the Nokia 9 PureView. The PureView trademark was originally licensed to Microsoft and later transferred to HMD Global by the European Union Intellectual Property office. One of the most recognisable devices in the PureView lineup would definitely be Nokia 808 PureView and its 41 MP camera. As per a tweet by tipster Roland Quandt, we will be hearing this announcement from HMD Global in the near future. However, that happens to be the only information that was provided by Quandt about the phone. Nokia 9 Pureview. That's the actual marketing name of what will come soon from HMD Global. (I know the bought the rights to the Pureview moniker, but can now confirm it'll be part of the device name.) Roland Quandt (@rquandt) October 1, 2018 However, the PureView moniker is connected to great camera hardware and several previous leaks about the device have shown that the phone could come with as many as 5 cameras and that is only at the back. The leaked photo of the device shows seven units placed in a hexagonal shape, six in a circle and one in the centre. Five cameras out of these come with Zeiss-branded optics There is no word on the total pixel count of this camera system, but it is safe to say that it is going to be pretty high. We could also see a 41 MP sensor like the one seen on the Nokia 808 PureView back in 2012. The alleged Nokia 9 PureView is expected to be powered by Snapdragon 845 SoC with 8 GB RAM and 256 GB internal storage and it might feature a 6-inch display. tech2 News Staff While a lot of critics might claim that Microsoft played it safe with most of it Surface refreshes this year, they did have one major surprise for everyone and that's the new Surface Headphones that it also announced. The Surface Headphones are quite basic-looking over-the-ear headphones made of plastic. It's available in a single light grey colour which goes well with the Surface line up of that colour. However, do not be deceived by its looks because it does punch hard when it comes to features that Microsoft has baked into it. The headphones feature two dials that can be rotated, one on each earcup. While one dial lets you control the volume, the other dial lets you switch between different levels of ambient noise control. What we're talking about here is not a dial which turns on or switches off noise cancellation, but a dial which lets you switch between 13 levels of noise cancellation. This is something innovative. Listening to music should be a pleasant experience as well, considering the headphones pack 40 mm drivers and what appears to be a large comfortable memory foam cups to cushion the ears. Microsoft also adds touch controls on the ear cups for pausing your music or skipping tracks, something we've seen a number of premium Bluetooth headphones do. That's not all, because these headphones are made by Microsoft, they also support "Hey Cortana" for voice commands without having to touch a thing. While Surface Headphones are optimised for Surface devices, they will pair with any Bluetooth enabled device. They also charge over USB-C (strange since we assumed Microsoft didn't take a liking to USB-C, as it doesn't have it on the Surface Laptop or Surface Pro) and can be plugged in via a detachable 3.5 mm cable. The headphones which have been priced at $350, will be ready to ship to folks in the UK and US by the end of this year, but it is likely that we will see it come to other markets as well by next year. There is no timeline on when and if the Surface Headphones will come to India. Indo-Asian News Service Apple CEO Tim Cook has said that the decision to remove the "Infowars" podcasts by US conspiracy theorist Alex Jones from App Store was not part of a coordinated attempt by multiple Silicon Valley companies to de-platform Jones and deny him a voice, the media reported. "I've never even had a conversation about Alex Jones with any other tech companies," The Verge quoted Cook as saying in an interview with Vice News Tonight on Tuesday. Several tech giants including Google-owned YouTube, Apple, Facebook, Spotify, and Twitter have either removed or restricted Jones' activities on their platforms for promoting hate speech. "We make our decisions independently and I think that's important. Honestly. I've had no conversation. And to my knowledge, no one at Apple has," Cook added. Jones is a controversial American radio show host who runs the website Infowars.com that is devoted to conspiracy theories and content containing abusive language to describe people who are transgenders, Muslims and immigrants. Press Trust of India An Indian astronaut may travel to the International Space Station (ISS) on board a Soyuz spacecraft for a short training mission in 2022, a Russian media report said on Wednesday, citing a source in the Russian space industry. "The Russian side has offered Indian colleagues to conduct a short visit to the ISS. The flight should take place in 2022 before or after India's independent manned space mission. The agreement is expected to be signed in the near future," state-run Russian news agency Sputnik quoted the source as saying. The International Space Station is a habitable artificial satellite in low Earth orbit. In his Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced an ambitious mission of sending an Indian astronaut to space by 2022 on board domestically-developed 'Gaganyaan', when India celebrates the 75th anniversary of independence. If successful, India would be the fourth nation to send a human in space after the US, Russia and China. Rakesh Sharma, a former Indian Air Force pilot, was the first Indian to travel to space. Sharma was a part of the Soviet Union's Soyuz T-11 expedition, launched on April 2, 1984, as part of the Intercosmos programme. India-born Kalpana Chawla and Indian-origin Sunita Williams are among the known names to have gone to space. Chawla was one of the seven crew members who perished in the space shuttle Columbia disaster during re-entry into the earth's atmosphere in 2003. tech2 News Staff NASAs Parker Solar Probe is due for a swing around Venus on Wednesday, 3 October, before it heads the way of its target, the Sun, according to a report in DailyMail. On its pioneering journey to touch the Sun's surface, the probe will gain the required momentum by performing a gravity assist around Venus before heading for the Sun's surface. It will take seven revolutions of Venus as part of the assist. The mission requires around 55 times as much energy as that for a mission to Mars, NASA said in a statement. The Parker probe may very well shatter the record it was setting out to in another month the closest solar encounter by a man-made object. This was previously held by Helios also a NASA spacecraft at roughly 43 million kilometres away from the sun in 1976. Parker is set to go twice as close 23 million kilometres of the sun's surface in a matter of weeks from now, and then make two dozen dips in and out of the Sun's corona over its mission period of seven years. With the Sun's corona extending 5 million kilometres of the surface, Parker's approach is estimated at around 6 million kilometres from the surface. "We'll be going where no spacecraft has dared go before within the corona of a star," Nicky Fox, project scientist of the mission from NASA's Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab, said to the press. "With each orbit, we'll be seeing new regions of the Sun's atmosphere and learning things about stellar mechanics that we've wanted to explore for decades." The story doing the rounds in New Delhis power corridors is that Moscow is acutely unhappy about the dip in relations in recent years, even while India cosies up to the US. An old new friend is coming calling, and India has its chequebook ready to sign a $5 billion deal for badly needed air defence weaponry. An old friend, because both Russians and Indians are still sentimental about the close ties that once led both to stand up to much of the world; new because those ties are changing in character and scope. The story doing the rounds in New Delhis power corridors is that Moscow is acutely unhappy about the dip in relations in recent years, even while India cosies up to the US. The truth is they have no reason to be. As President Vladimir Putin arrives in New Delhi for the 19th Indo-Russia summit, it needs to be acknowledged that areas of cooperation have diversified with a certain interdependence in most areas rather than the dependence of India in previous years that is healthy for both. Take a look at the summary of India-Russia relations on the Ministry of External Affairs website. As is usual for the ministry, the website hasnt been updated for a year, but it still shows a steady rise in Russias importance, after its virtual demise after the end of the Soviet Union. From the Strategic Partnership of 2000 to the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership in 2010, and finally the Sochi informal summit, the relationship has not simply come a long way but trod new pathways. Consider the progress over the last decade. The official documents of 2003, for instance, are a long list of hopes, and possible cooperation. By 2017, this has translated into actuals on the ground, including energy, railways, urban infrastructure, agriculture, high technology, and a raft of cooperative mechanisms which brings Russian companies to the growing market of India. Among these several areas of cooperation which admittedly also includes such placebos as cultural cooperation two areas stand out particularly. One is the Russian entry into Indias energy market. This is not just limited to the fanfare of the first ever delivery of Russian Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to Indian shores this June, but as a detailed article in The Diplomat points out, covers a far deeper relationship. For instance, a Russian consortium acquired a controlling stake in the Indian assets of Essar Oil for $13 billion in 2017, the largest ever overseas acquisition by a Russian consortium. The giant Vadinar refinery has thereby emerged as a captive port with a distribution network of over 3,500 filling stations and a nice foothold into the future. Conversely, India has also bought into Russian energy sources. In 2016, reports noted that Indian Oil Corp. Ltd, Oil India Ltd and a unit of Bharat Petroleum Corp. Ltd signed an agreement to purchase a 29.9 percent stake in Tass-Yuryakh oilfield and a 23.9 percent stake in the Vankor oilfield, in deals which were reported to be valued at $3.28 billion. There is more ahead, according to petroleum and natural gas minister Dharmendra Pradhan, in addition to the existing energy investments totalling $10 billion. The icing of the cake is not the figures. It is the fact that India has finally learnt to use its status as the third largest importer of natural gas to not only diversify its sources away from OPEC but also to get the best deal for itself. The 20 year Gazprom deal, for instance, has been negotiated at a rate far less than offered by Qatar, Australia and the US. A second area where Russia has a competitive edge is in nuclear energy. Rosatom accounts for some 67 percent of total nuclear energy projects under construction. This is an area that Putin is pushing hard and succeeding given that projects are ongoing in at least ten countries. Indias own Kudankulam is set to expand with the deals for the fifth and sixth reactor signed last year, under a 70:30 debt-equity ratio. The Russian government will lend India $4.2 billion to help cover the construction cost of the nuclear park which has a capacity of some 6,000MW. The size of this becomes apparent when it is considered that the total installed capacity of all 22 nuclear plants at present is 6,780MW. In simple words, the Indian government has wisely decided to play on Russian strengths, even while keeping feisty western countries out of this area. The third area of significant cooperation and a considerable trace of dependency by India is that of defence. As experts point out, Russia still supplies about 60 percent of defence equipment by value. There is also the undeniable fact that the Indian Army, in particular, is heavily dependent on Russia for spares well into the future. To take just one segment, almost its entire artillery and armour are sourced from Russia. Since these are not expected to be phased out anytime soon, the relationship is going to be a long one. The navy is no less. Russias helping hand in building nuclear submarines may soon be followed by an offer of other underwater vehicles and frigates with a significant 'Make in India' content. The air force though less 'Russia heavy is however still largely dependent on its Mikoyan aircraft and apparently liking it. Alongside the expected S-400 deal, and production of Kamov helicopters is the elephant in the room and the deal of the century a plan to buy 110 fighter aircraft. Consider that the last few major air force buys including the C-17 Globemaster, the C-130 transport, and Apache and Chinook helicopters have also been from the US, and thats not even counting the armed drones. The US is catching up fast. According to experts, between 2000-2009 and 2010-17, US arms deliveries to India have increased by a whopping 1,470 percent. Moscow has a cause for concern. But hope floats, as US president Donald Trump continues to vacillate from friend to foe. All of this is very well, and certainly indicates a certain inter-dependence with the Modi government playing its cards well in extracting the best from Moscow. The trouble, of course, is the strategic part of the relationship. The popular notion that Delhi seethes at Moscows supply of weapons to Pakistan is largely untrue. Decision makers finally agreed that Russia could hardly be expected to resist the Pakistani defence market when India itself was diversifying its sources. The problem is not even that Moscow seems to have a hand in the Taliban negotiation issue. If Russia can extricate anything reasonably stable from the Afghan mess, so be it. The main problem is its relationship with China, and arising from that, the Belt and Road Initiative and the China Pakistan Economic Corridor. Moscow still insists with some reason that its better to be a part of the BRI, together with Iran and Central Asia than out of it, thus allowing China unlimited room for manoeuvre. It may also soon buy into CPEC if that suits its plans for Central Asia. Alongside, the Russia-China relationship is diversifying on the back of the US trade sanctions and rage. Russia has also become Chinas 9th largest trading partner, up from 11th last year, and bilateral trade is set to reach a hundred billion in bilateral trade. Trade with India is hoped to reach $50 billion in 2025. At present, it's $7.5 billion, a 22 percent rise over the previous year. The numbers speak volumes, even though there is room for reading between the statistics in terms of possible growth. But reading the tea leaves it is fraught with uncertainty until one refers back to history. India and Russian friendship grew in the 1960s against the backdrop of China relative rise. As Russian influence in Central Asia continues to fall back in the face of Beijings munificence, and Chinese immigration into Russias far east continues with all its attendant problems, the tide could turn, one wave at a time. Russias military is nothing if not realistic, unlike some of its politicians who are only seeing the big bucks in Beijing. New Delhi has to bide its time, even while exploiting Russias still considerable military industrial complex to create new joint holdings that pivot around the 'Make In India' slogan and the export market. This need not always be towards big ticket items that make the headlines. Try for the less glamorous projects that are unlikely to attract sanctions or attention. That could be anything from aircraft seats to river navigation technology. To misquote a famous shoe company, just go for it. In a turbulent international game, we need all the counters we can get. Aung San Suu Kyi is the first person to have her honorary Canadian citizenship revoked. Ottawa: Canada's Parliament has formally stripped Aung San Suu Kyi of her honorary Canadian citizenship for complicity in the atrocities committed against Myanmar's Rohingya people. The Senate voted unanimously to strip Suu Kyi,Myanmar's civilian leader, of the symbolic honor bestowed on her in 2007. The upper house's move follows a similar unanimous vote in the House of Commons last week. Suu Kyi is the first person to have her honorary Canadian citizenship revoked. A United Nations (UN) fact-finding mission reported last month that Myanmar's military has systematically killed thousands of Rohingya civilians, burned hundreds of their villages and engaged in ethnic cleansing and mass gang rape. It called for top generals to be investigated and prosecuted for genocide. The Senate has also followed the lead of the Commons in recognising that the crimes against humanity committed by the Myanmar military against the Rohingya constitute a genocide. "We must recognise this atrocity for what it is," said Senator Ratna Omidvar, who introduced the motion to revoke Suu Kyi's citizenship on Tuesday. "It is genocide. We must call it as it is," he said. Suu Kyi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for her fight for democracy in Myanmar. "At that point she was a champion for change and human rights ... The world pinned its hope on her as the shining light and hope for a democratic and peaceful Myanmar," said Omidvar. "As we all now know, that was not to be." Omidvar said Suu Kyi has denied the atrocities, restricted access to international investigators and journalists, defended the military and denied humanitarian aid for the Rohingya. "We need to send a strong signal in Canada and around the world that if you're an accomplice of genocide, you are not welcome here. Certainly not as an honorary Canadian citizen." The Canadian government auditors have alleged that ISNA-Canada failed to conduct any meaningful due diligence when it transferred $1,36,000 to India's Kashmir region where groups like Hizbul Mujahideen have been in an armed conflict with the Indian forces. The CRA said that the Islamic charity has acted as a conduit for many organisations which supports terrorist activities in other countries. It is the CRAs view that the societys resources may have, directly or indirectly, been used to support the political efforts of Jamaat-e-Islami and/or its armed wing Hizbul Mujahideen, CRA has stated, according to an India Today report . Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) has suspended the Islamic Society of North America-Canada (ISNA- Canada) for funding groups allegedly linked to terrorist organisations like the Hizbul Mujahideen. The CRA has banned the Mississauga-based Islamic charity organisation for a year starting from 12 September and has also ordered it to pay a fine of $5,50,000. According to Sputnik International, CRA audit documents reportedly allege that ISNA-Canada donated $90,000 to the Relief Organization for Kashmiri Muslims (ROKM) between 2007 and 2009 and funded an additional $46,000 to the Kashmiri Relief Fund of Canada, which had previously raised funds for the ROKM. "Our research indicates that ROKM is the charitable arm of Jamaat-e-Islami, a political organisation that actively contests the legitimacy of India's governance over the state of Jammu and Kashmir, including reportedly through the activities of its armed wing Hizbul Mujahideen," the CRA said. The audit was conducted in 2011 and covered the period from 2007 to 2009. The results were conveyed to ISNA-Canada in 2014 but the CRA only sanctioned the charity on 5 September 2018. "Providing resources to organisations operating in support of a political purpose, including the achievement of nationhood or political autonomy, are not recognised at law as charitable," the CRA said. By acting as a "conduit" for other organisations, ISNA-Canada "may have, knowingly or unknowingly, provided the benefits of its status as a registered charity to support the efforts of a political party and its armed wing, CRA said. However, according to a Hindustan Times' report, the Charities Directorate has not revoked ISNA-Canadas charity status but the group was required to enter a compliance agreement whereby it must cease its overseas operations. According to a Global News article, ISNA Islamic Services of Canada was stripped of its charitable status for non-compliance, according to records obtained by Global News. Authorities also revoked a related charity, the Canadian Islamic Trust Foundation. Both are former affiliates of the Islamic Society of North America-Canada (ISNA-Canada), and shared its Mississauga, Ontario, address. However, the ISNA-Canada has denied all the allegations levelled against it by the CRA. We are saddened by this outcome," ISNA-Canada said in a written statement, another Global News article said. According to the report, ISNA- Canada has also denied any links to terrorism and has said that it has in fact made "progressive and important changes to its governance and in "how it operates as one of the largest Muslim organisations in Canada". We remain politically impartial and are not in any way linked to any political or extremist group, said the organisation, adding, We will continue our operations and remain committed to always striving to be the best possible organisation we can be in service to Canadians." According to the Global News report, in a letter addressed to community members, ISNA-Canada chair Katherine Bullock said: "We have spent the last decade rectifying these mistakes and reforming our organisation to ensure that we have a robust governance structure in place so that the mistakes made are not repeated." President Donald Trump made an undiplomatic remark about close ally Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. Southaven: President Donald Trump made an undiplomatic remark about close ally Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, saying he warned Saudi Arabias King Salman he would not last in power for two weeks without the backing of the US military. We protect Saudi Arabia. Would you say theyre rich? And I love the King, King Salman. But I said King - were protecting you - you might not be there for two weeks without us - you have to pay for your military, Trump said to cheers at a rally in Southaven, Mississippi. Trump did not say when he made those remarks to the Saudi monarch. Despite the harsh words, the Trump administration has had a close relationship with Saudi Arabia, which it views as a bulwark against Irans ambitions in the region. Trump made Saudi Arabia his first stop on his maiden international trip as president last year. Trump called King Salman on Saturday and they discussed efforts being made to maintain supplies to ensure oil market stability and global economic growth, according to Saudi state news agency SPA. Saudi Arabia is the worlds top oil exporter and the de facto leader of OPEC, which has been criticised by Trump for high oil prices. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York last month, Trump said OPEC members were as usual ripping off the rest of the world. We defend many of these nations for nothing, and then they take advantage of us by giving us high oil prices. Not good. We want them to stop raising prices, we want them to start lowering prices, Trump said. He has also pressed other US allies, such as Japan, South Korea and Germany, to take more of the financial burden of their defense. The FBI is expected to send Congress a report on its revived sexual harassment investigation of Brett Kavanaugh as soon as Wednesday afternoon, Republican senators said of the pivotal document that could make or break his Supreme Court nomination. Washington: The FBI is expected to send Congress a report on its revived sexual harassment investigation of Brett Kavanaugh anytime Wednesday EST, Republican senators said of the pivotal document that could make or break his Supreme Court nomination. This news comes hours after US President Donald Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi by mocking the woman who has claimed she was sexually assaulted by Kavanaugh decades ago. The audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Christine Blasey Ford's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She testified that Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s, when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Ford's allegations. "How did you get home? 'I don't remember,'" Trump said at the rally Tuesday in Southaven. "How did you get there? 'I don't remember.' Where is the place? 'I don't remember.' How many years ago was it? 'I don't know. I don't know. I don't know.'" Republicans crucial in the voting sweepstakes for Kavanaugh's nomination have blasted Trump's mocking remarks. GOP lawmakers emerging from a closed-door lunch said that if the FBI report arrived later in the day, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell would trigger a process that could lead to a crucial initial vote Friday and a climactic confirmation roll call over the weekend. In the meantime, senators and a small number of top aides would be allowed to read the papers in a secure room in the Capitol complex. Senators have been awaiting completion of the report since last week, when a handful of wavering GOP senators pressured a reluctant President Donald Trump and GOP leaders to ask the FBI to renew its background check of the 53-year-old conservative jurist. Kavanaugh's expected smooth sail to confirmation was rattled after Christine Blasey Ford and two other women publicly accused him of sexual misconduct in separate incidents in the 1980s. Three Republican and two Democratic senators, all moderates, have yet to announce how they will vote, and the GOP's razor-thin 51-49 Senate majority means Kavanaugh's fate remains unpredictable. Anticipation for the report built as Republicans assessed the impact of Trump's Tuesday night tirade against Ford. At a campaign rally, he mimicked her and often inaccurately recalled her answers to questions she faced at a Senate hearing last week, drawing laughter from the sympathetic crowd but concern from Republicans that he'd made nailing down votes for Kavanaugh more complicated. "All of us need to keep in mind there's a few people that are on the fence right now. And right now, that's sort of where our focus needs to be," said Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee, who has traded barbs with Trump and will retire at year's end. The FBI has interviewed several people, including three who Ford has said were at a 1982 high school gathering in suburban Maryland where she says Kavanaugh sexually molested her in a locked bedroom. Also a Kavanaugh friend she says was in the room. The agency has also spoken to a second woman, Deborah Ramirez, who has claimed Kavanaugh exposed himself to her at a Yale party when both were freshmen. Other than that, little is known about details of the agency's renewed background check. While some senators from both parties have said they'd like at least a summary of the findings to be released, Senate procedures call for such checks to be kept confidential. "None of that stuff's public," Judiciary panel Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa. Told reporters. "If you want people to be candid when they talk to the FBI, you ain't going to make that public." Iran immediately denied any involvement, as it did in July when the MEK accused it of being responsible. Paris: France has accused Iran's intelligence ministry of being behind a foiled plot to bomb an exiled Opposition group near the French capital in a move that risks straining already complicated ties between Paris and Tehran. The French government announced Tuesday it was freezing assets belonging to two suspected Iranian intelligence operatives, as well as others belonging to Iran's ministry of intelligence and security. France's decision to take retaliatory measures and go public with the accusations was taken three months after the alleged plot to bomb a meeting of the People's Mujahedeen of Iran (MEK) in a suburb of Paris. "This extremely serious act envisaged on our territory could not go without a response," France's interior, foreign and economy ministers said in a rare joint statement. "In taking this decision, France underlines its determination to fight against terrorism in all its forms, particularly on its own territory." A French diplomatic source told AFP that the security forces had concluded that "the head of operations at the (Iranian) intelligence ministry ordered it". Iran immediately denied any involvement, as it did in July when the MEK accused it of being responsible. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi told AFP in an interview that Tehran rejected the French complaint "completely and forcefully", but said the door for discussion was open. "If there is a misunderstanding... about a thing that does not exist, be it a conspiracy by others or a mistake, we can sit down and talk about it," he said on Tuesday. The US, which has been intensifying pressure on Iran, warned that "this outrageous behaviour will not be tolerated" in a tweet from the White House's National Security Council. The alleged bomb plot came to light two days after thousands of Iranian Opposition supporters gathered at an exhibition centre outside Paris on 30 June. The meeting was attended by two allies of US president Donald Trump, former House speaker Newt Gingrich and former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani. The MEK was formed in the 1960s to overthrow the Shah of Iran and it continues to organise Opposition to the current leaders of the Islamic republic who took power following the 1979 revolution. Belgium announced in July that it had arrested a couple in a Brussels suburb who were suspected of preparing to drive a car packed with explosives to the French rally. A total of six people were then detained in coordinated raids by European police, including an Iranian diplomat based in Vienna. The diplomat, Assadollah Asadi, was targeted by the asset freezes announced by French authorities on Tuesday, along with Saeid Hashemi Moghadam, who the French diplomatic source said was head of operations at the intelligence ministry. Asadi is set to be extradited to Belgium to face trial, German authorities announced on Monday. "We deny the accusations and forcefully condemn the Iranian diplomat's arrest, and call for his immediate release," a statement from the Iranian foreign ministry said earlier on Tuesday. The measures announced on Tuesday come as French president Emmanuel Macron and his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani are at odds over a host of issues. Macron, who hoped to improve ties with Tehran at the start of his presidency last year, has allied with Iran over the 2015 nuclear deal which limits the Islamic Republic's atomic programme. While Trump has pulled out of the agreement and denounced it, Macron has been a vocal supporter and has worked to keep the accord alive despite US sanctions. But Macron is at loggerheads with Rouhani over the wars in Syria and Yemen, in which Iran is a major player, and has raised concerns about the country's ballistic missile programme. The US considers Iran to be the world's biggest state sponsor of terrorism because of its links with a host of armed groups, particularly the powerful Hezbollah militia in Lebanon and Hamas in the Palestinian territories, as well as other networks in Iraq and Yemen. Iran has been blamed in the past for carrying out attacks in countries as far afield as Argentina, India and Thailand. The French diplomatic source said Iran was suspected of carrying out "several" assassinations of Opposition figures in the European Union since 2015. Also Tuesday, around 200 French police launched a dawn anti-terror raid on one of the biggest Shiite Muslim centres in France, the Zahra Centre France, as well as on the homes of its directors. Two of three people arrested were released, according to sources close to the inquiry, while the centre's treasurer will face a hearing on Wednesday for the illegal possession of firearms. The Zahra Centre France was founded in 2009 by Yahia Gouasmi, a pro-regime activist and religious figure who has spoken in support of Hezbollah. By John Irish and Richard Lough PARIS (Reuters) - France said on Tuesday there was no doubt Iran's intelligence ministry was behind a June plot to attack an exiled opposition group's rally outside Paris and it seized assets belonging to Tehran's intelligence services and two Iranian nationals. By John Irish and Richard Lough PARIS (Reuters) - France said on Tuesday there was no doubt Iran's intelligence ministry was behind a June plot to attack an exiled opposition group's rally outside Paris and it seized assets belonging to Tehran's intelligence services and two Iranian nationals. The hardening of relations between Paris and Tehran could have far-reaching consequences for Iran as President Hassan Rouhani's government looks to European capitals to salvage a 2015 nuclear deal after the United States pulled out and reimposed tough sanctions on Iran. "Behind all this was a long, meticulous and detailed investigation by our (intelligence) services that enabled us to reach the conclusion, without any doubt, that responsibility fell on the Iranian intelligence ministry," a French diplomatic source said. The source, speaking after the government announced asset freezes, added that the deputy minister and director general of intelligence, Saeid Hashemi Moghadam, had ordered the attack and Assadollah Asadi, a Vienna-based diplomat held by German authorities, had put it into action. The ministry is under control of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "We deny once again the allegations against Iran and demand the immediate release of the Iranian diplomat," Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi was quoted as saying by state news agency IRNA. The incident was a plot "designed by those who want to damage Irans long-established relations with France and Europe," he said. The plot targeted a meeting of the Paris-based National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) outside the French capital. U.S. President Donald Trump's lawyer Rudy Giuliani and several former European and Arab ministers attended the rally. It unravelled after Asadi, an accredited diplomat in Austria, was arrested in Germany, two other individuals were detained in Belgium in possession of explosives, and one other individual in France. On Monday, a court in southern Germany ruled the diplomat could be extradited to Belgium. "We cannot accept any terrorist threat on our national territory and this plot needed a firm response," the diplomatic source said. TARGETED ASSET FREEZES In a news briefing in Washington, U.S. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert noted the French action and said it was evidence that "theres probably no one who has felt terrorism stemming from Iran perhaps more than - well, the Syrians - that has felt it more than some Europeans." The asset freezes targeted Asadi and Moghadam. A unit within the Iranian intelligence services was also targeted. The French government gave no details of the assets involved, describing its measures as "targeted and proportionate." The diplomatic source said the freezes covered assets and financing means in France, although neither individual at this stage had any assets in the country. "We hope this matter is now over. We have taken measures and said what we needed to say," the source said, suggesting Paris was seeking to turn a page on the issue. France had warned Tehran to expect a robust response to the thwarted bombing and diplomatic relations were becoming increasingly strained. French President Emmanuel Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian spoke to their Iranian counterparts about the issue at the U.N. General Assembly after demanding explanations over Iran's role. An internal French foreign ministry memo in August told diplomats not to travel to Iran, Reuters revealed, citing the Villepinte bomb plot and a toughening of Irans position towards the West. Paris has also suspended nominating a new ambassador to Iran and has not responded to Tehran nominations for diplomatic positions in France. While not directly linked to the plot, the diplomatic source said a French police raid on a Shi'ite Muslim faith centre earlier on Tuesday was aimed at also sending a signal at Iran. [nL8N1WI2Y7 The deterioration of relations with France could have wider implications for Iran. France has been one of the strongest advocates of salvaging the 2015 nuclear deal, which saw Tehran agree to curbs on its nuclear programme in return for a lifting of economic sanctions. The Trump administration has said it expects renewed sanctions to hurt the Iranian economy hard. (Additional reporting by Paris bureau, Maria Sheahan in Frankfurt and Yara Bayoumi in Washington; Editing by William Maclean, Richard Balmforth and Leslie Adler) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Germany is trying to strike a balance between the needs of its labour market, an aging native population and popular concern about immigration. Berlin: The German government said on Tuesday it will expand a system of six-month visas allowing people from outside the European Union to seek jobs as part of an effort to tackle a shortfall of skilled workers. It also said it has agreed on a solution to help rejected but well-settled asylum-seekers, an issue that has divided the coalition. The six-month visas, currently available to university graduates, will be expanded to migrants with professional qualifications, Interior Minister Horst Seehofer said after leaders of the governing coalition met. He stressed that Germany, Europe's biggest economy, doesn't want "immigration into the welfare system." Applicants will have to prove they can support themselves and speak German. Like many other European countries, Germany is trying to strike a balance between the needs of its labour market, an aging native population and popular concern about immigration. Labor Minister Hubertus Heil said the government also agreed on a "pragmatic" solution to resolve the status of rejected asylum-seekers who have found work in Germany and are well-integrated. He said the government aims to give them a "reliable status ... so we don't send the wrong people home and then try hard to recruit skilled workers from third countries." Details were vague, with the government promising only to draw up "clear criteria" in residency law over the coming months. The question of whether to make it easier for asylum-seekers to join the workforce and thereby avoid deportation if their asylum request is rejected has been a bone of contention between Heil's center-left Social Democrats and conservatives such as Seehofer in Chancellor Angela Merkel's governing coalition. "We are sticking to the principle of keeping asylum and labor-related migration separate," Seehofer said. He noted that there are many people who have been rejected for asylum but whose presence is "tolerated" under German law because they can't return home for various reasons, such as the risk of mistreatment. At present, their employment status is handled differently by different German regions, he added, and the aim is to clarify rules across the country and create "certainty for business." German leaders acknowledge that various sectors and regions face shortages of skilled workers, and say they want to prioritize domestic workers and EU migrants. "But that's not enough if we want to preserve and stabilize economic growth ... and our social security systems," Seehofer said. "So we need trained workers from third countries." Iraq's parliament elected veteran Kurdish politician, Barham Salih, as the country's new president on Tuesday in a step toward forming a new government nearly five months after national elections. Iraq's parliament elected veteran Kurdish politician, Barham Salih, as the country's new president on Tuesday in a step toward forming a new government nearly five months after national elections. State TV said Salih, of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, won 220 votes out of the 273 lawmakers who attended Tuesday's session. He was among 20 candidates for the post, including one from the rival Kurdistan Democratic Party. The two parties have dominated Kurdish politics for decades. Under an unofficial agreement dating back to the 2003 US-led invasion, Iraq's presidency a largely ceremonial role is held by a Kurd, while the prime minister is Shiite and the parliament speaker is Sunni. Iraq held elections on 12 May. The new president will have 15 days to task the nominee of the largest parliamentary bloc with forming a new government. The prime minister-designate will then have 30 days to submit his cabinet to parliament. Shiite lawmaker Hamid al-Moussawi said the lawmakers were supposed to vote Monday but delayed the session for nearly 24 hours after the KDP and the PUK were unable to agree on a candidate. The parliament speaker eventually decided to hold a vote among all 20 nominees. The KDP's nominee was Fuad Hussein, who served as chief of staff for the former Kurdish regional president Masoud Barzani. Born in 1960 in the northern city of Sulaimaniyah, Salih joined the PUK in 1976 and later worked in its foreign relations department in London. He studied at Cardiff University and the University of Liverpool. He held various posts in the Iraqi government after the 2003 invasion, including planning minister and deputy prime minister, and from 2009 to 2011 he served as prime minister of the Kurdish region. Last year, he broke away from PUK following the death of the party's founder, Jalal Talabani, a former Iraqi president. Salih formed an opposition party but returned to the PUK to be its nominee for president. Two Shiite-led blocs have emerged since the May elections, both of which claim to have the most seats and therefore the right to form a government. One is led by the current prime minister, Haider al-Abadi, and includes supporters of the populist Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, whose followers won the most votes in the election. The other bloc includes state-sanctioned militias, many of which are backed by Iran, as well as former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. Political wrangling among the Shiite-led blocs and other factions could further delay the process of naming a prime minister. JERUSALEM (Reuters) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel began a visit to Israel on Wednesday, with Iran's nuclear ambitions and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict among issues on the agenda in talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Merkel and Netanyahu did not make any statements after her arrival in Jerusalem. JERUSALEM (Reuters) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel began a visit to Israel on Wednesday, with Iran's nuclear ambitions and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict among issues on the agenda in talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Merkel and Netanyahu did not make any statements after her arrival in Jerusalem. They were due to hold talks after dinner at the prime minister's official residence but most of the business will take place on Thursday. Merkel and ministers accompanying her begin with a visit to the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial in Jerusalem and will hold other meetings during the day before returning to Germany in the evening. Germany has remained party to the Iran nuclear deal, which lifted sanctions on Tehran in exchange for curbing its atomic programme, after U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew from it in May. But speaking in Amman, Jordan in June, Merkel said European countries shared concerns over Iran's ballistic missile programme and called for solutions to its "aggressive tendencies" in the Middle East. Netanyahu has repeatedly warned against Iran's nuclear ambitions and has said he would prevent the Islamic Republic entrenching in Syria and arming Lebanese Hezbollah guerrillas and supporting Islamist Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The Palestinians have tried to get Merkel to persuade Israel not to raze a Bedouin encampment in the occupied West Bank. Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah met with a German diplomat on Wednesday to discuss the matter. Media reports said Merkel had threatened to cancel the visit if Israel were to raze Khan al-Ahmar, a ramshackle camp housing 180 residents. Earlier this month, Israel's Supreme Court gave the go-ahead for eviction after lengthy litigation. Children at the encampment held posters of Merkel on Tuesday and appealed to her to help block Israel's plans. (Additional reporting by Ali Sawafta in Ramallah, Writing by Ori Lewis) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. By Lesley Wroughton and David Brunnstrom WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday he was optimistic his planned visit to Pyongyang this weekend would bring progress towards a second summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and in building a path to North Korea's denuclearization. Pompeo declined comment on negative signals from North Korea, that have included demands for a lifting of sanctions and complaints about Washington's apparent reluctance to agree to a declaration to end the 1950-53 Korean War without major concessions By Lesley Wroughton and David Brunnstrom WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday he was optimistic his planned visit to Pyongyang this weekend would bring progress towards a second summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and in building a path to North Korea's denuclearization. Pompeo declined comment on negative signals from North Korea, that have included demands for a lifting of sanctions and complaints about Washington's apparent reluctance to agree to a declaration to end the 1950-53 Korean War without major concessions. [nL2N1WI1GC] "I'm very happy to be going back to get another chance to continue to advance the commitment that Chairman Kim and President Trump made back in Singapore in the second week of June," Pompeo told a news briefing at the State Department. "I'm optimistic that we'll come away from that with better understandings, deeper progress and a plan forward, not only for the summit between the two leaders, but for us to continue the efforts to build out a pathway for denuclearization." At an unprecedented June 12 meeting with Trump, Kim pledged to work toward denuclearization of the Korean peninsula, but his actions have fallen short of Washington's demands for a complete inventory of its nuclear weapons and irreversible steps to give up an arsenal that potentially threatens the United States. Trump has nevertheless appeared keen on a second summit with Kim, even though recent North Korean statements have suggested the two sides are far from narrowing their differences. North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho told the United Nations last week that continued sanctions were deepening its mistrust in the United States and there was no way Pyongyang would give up its nuclear weapons unilaterally under such circumstances. [nL2N1WF05X] Wednesday's Washington Post quoted South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha as saying in an interview that to break the stalemate, Washington should hold off on its long-standing demand for an inventory of North Korea's weapons programs and agree to an end-of-war declaration in return for a North Korean pledge to dismantle its Yongbyon nuclear site. A commentary on North Korea's official KCNA news agency this week, however, said the declaration should have been resolved half a century ago and it could never be a bargaining chip to persuade it to denuclearize. Pompeo brushed aside suggestions of differences between himself and Trump over a timeline for North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons. Pompeo said the day of the Trump-Kim summit he was hopeful that there would be major North Korean disarmament by the end of Trump's term in January 2021. [nL1N1TF0ZS] In a statement last month, he said the United States aimed for North Korean denuclearization by that date, but a week later Trump said he did not have a time frame. [nL2N1W519D] [nL2N1WC0OK] At Wednesday's briefing, Pompeo said the statements were "entirely consistent with each other." "We want it fast, but we're not going to play the time game," he said, adding that his reference last month to 2021 was repeating a comment made by the North and South Korean leaders at a summit last month in Pyongyang. "President Trumps comments are exactly right. This is a long-term problem; this has been outstanding for decades. Weve made more progress than has been made in an awfully long time and, importantly, we have done so in conditions which continue to give us the opportunity to achieve the final goal," Pompeo said. Pompeo stressed that in the meantime international sanctions would have to remain in place on North Korea. He said there was unanimous support for this at last week's U.N. General Assembly, even if Russia and China "had some ideas about how we might begin to think about a time when it would be appropriate to reduce them." [nL2N1WD12K] (Reporting by David Brunnstrom and Lesley Wroughton in Washington; Editing by James Dalgleish and Grant McCool) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. By Lesley Wroughton and David Brunnstrom WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to North Korea at the weekend for denuclearization talks with the country's leader Kim Jong Un, the State Department said on Tuesday, calling this 'forward progress,' despite negative signals from Pyongyang. Pompeo will also travel to Japan, South Korea and China from Oct By Lesley Wroughton and David Brunnstrom WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to North Korea at the weekend for denuclearization talks with the country's leader Kim Jong Un, the State Department said on Tuesday, calling this "forward progress," despite negative signals from Pyongyang. Pompeo will also travel to Japan, South Korea and China from Oct. 6-8, and will be in North Korea on Sunday local time, or Saturday in U.S. Eastern Time. "I think it shows forward progress and momentum that the secretary is making his fourth trip back in less than a year," State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told a briefing, referring to the Pyongyang stop. "Of course, we have quite a ways to go but we look forward to the next steps in this conversation." Pompeo's visit comes ahead of a planned second summit between Kim and President Donald Trump. The invitation to return to Pyongyang was made during a meeting with North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho on the sidelines of their United Nations General Assembly last week. Nauert said the stops in Japan, South Korea and China were intended to brief counterparts on the Pyongyang talks. She said he would meet Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Foreign Minister Taro Kono in Tokyo and President Moon Jae-in and Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha in Seoul, while in Beijing he would meet counterparts to discuss "bilateral, regional and global issues." At an unprecedented June meeting with Trump, Kim pledged to work toward denuclearization of the Korean peninsula, but his actions have fallen short of Washington's demands for a complete inventory of its nuclear weapons and irreversible steps to give up an arsenal that potentially threatens the United States. Trump has nevertheless hailed progress and on Saturday took his enthusiasm for his detente with Kim to new heights by declaring at a rally with supporters that "we fell in love" after exchanging letters. DEEPENING MISTRUST Earlier that day, North Korea's Ri struck a different tone, telling the United Nations that continued U.S. sanctions were deepening Pyongyang's mistrust in the United States and there was no way the country would disarm unilaterally under such circumstances. Ri said North Korea had taken "significant goodwill measures," such as stopping nuclear and missiles tests and dismantling a nuclear test site, but there had been no corresponding response from Washington. North Korea has been seeking a formal end to the 1950-53 Korea War, but the United States has said Pyongyang must give up its nuclear weapons first. Washington has also resisted calls to relax tough international sanctions. Pompeo's last trip to North Korea did not go well. He left Pyongyang in July hailing progress, only for North Korea to denounce him for making "gangster-like demands." In a commentary on Tuesday, North Korea's official KCNA news agency said declaring the end of the 1950-53 Korean War could "never be a bargaining chip" for denuclearization and said experts calling for North Korea to declare details of its arms programs were "spouting ... rubbish." Pompeo had planned to travel to North Korea in August but Trump cancelled the trip at the last moment and publicly acknowledged for the first time that his efforts to get Pyongyang to denuclearize had stalled. Nauert said she did not agree that talks had stalled and when asked if Trump's comments on Saturday had been helpful, replied: "I think if our leaders have relatively friendly relations, that that's a good thing. That that can only help us to achieve our final goal." She said that in the meantime, sanctions would remain in place. "We are not easing the pressure in that regard at all," she said, while responding when asked if Washington was considering any kind of peace declaration: "We are not. Nothing has changed with regard to our policy." Pompeo's trip to China comes at a time of deteriorating relations and tit-for-tat tariffs sparked by Trump's accusations of unfair Chinese trade practices. Last week, Trump accused China of seeking to meddle in the Nov. 6 U.S. congressional elections, saying it did not want his Republican Party to do well. Reuters reported on Sunday that China had cancelled a security meeting with U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis planned for October. Asked if Pompeo would attend the diplomatic side of the so-called Diplomatic and Security Dialogue, Nauert said: "The trip is, as far as I understand, to have conversations about North Korea and other issues of bilateral concern. I don't have anything beyond that right now." "In any relationship you have your high points, you have your medium points and with some countries you have your low points," she said. "I am not going to characterize our relationship with China in any one of those three ways, but relationships can ebb and flow over time, so we certainly have a lot to talk about with the government of China." (Reporting by Lesley Wroughton and David Brunnstrom; Additional reporting by Matt Spetalnick; Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Lisa Shumaker) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. A woman, claiming that she was raped, beaten and sex trafficked at the age of 15 by a pimp who posed as a Facebook friend, has filed suit against the social network, alleging its executives knew minors were being lured into the sex trade on their platform. Texas: A woman, claiming that she was raped, beaten and sex trafficked at the age of 15 by a pimp who posed as a Facebook friend, has filed suit against the social network, alleging its executives knew minors were being lured into the sex trade on their platform. The woman, identified only as Jane Doe in court papers filed in Harris County District Court in Houston on Monday, also named as defendants the now-shuttered classified ads website Backpage.com and its founders. Facebook did not respond to a request by Reuters for comment. Attorneys for Backpage.com and the former employees named in the lawsuit as defendants also did not return calls for comment. According to the lawsuit, the woman was friended on Facebook in 2012 by a user who appeared to know several of her real-life friends. The man messaged her through Facebook, according to the lawsuit, which was seen by Reuters. The lawsuit alleges that at one point following an argument with her mother, the trafficker offered to console her, but after picking her up from her home he beat and raped her and took pictures that were posted on Backpage.com. The lawsuit says Facebook did not do enough to verify the users identity, which the lawsuit said was false, and that Jane Doe was never warned that sex traffickers were operating on the social media network. The plaintiffs attorneys, David Harris and Louie Cook of the law firm Sico Hoelscher Harris LLP in Houston, did not reply to requests for comment. Backpage.com was shut down by authorities earlier this year after a Justice Department investigation into allegations that the website was used primarily to sell sex. British Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday unveiled a major post-Brexit overhaul of the UK's immigration system, which she said is aimed at a level playing field for nationals from all countries by ending 'freedom of movement once and for all' for European Union (EU) citizens. British prime minister Theresa May on Tuesday unveiled a major post-Brexit overhaul of the UK's immigration system, which she said is aimed at a level playing field for nationals from all countries by ending "freedom of movement once and for all" for European Union (EU) citizens. There is speculation whether Indians will benefit from the new rules, which will focus on highly-skilled migration as opposed to low-skilled workers, but an added obligation on companies being required to sponsor families of such high-skilled professionals may prove a hurdle in the long term. "When we leave (the EU) we will bring in a new immigration system that ends freedom of movement once and for all. For the first time in decades, it will be this country that controls and chooses who we want to come here," May said in a statement. "It will be a skills-based system where it is workers' skills that matter, not where they come from. It will be a system that looks across the globe and attracts the people with the skills we need, she said. The UK government said the new so-called skills-based system will make sure low-skilled immigration is brought down and set the UK on the path to reduce immigration to sustainable levels," said a key manifesto pledge of the ruling Conservative Party. The new regime, details of which are yet to be fully specified, is expected to be in place by 2021 once the transition period for Britain's exit from the EU is complete. Under rules for skilled workers, applicants will continue to be required to meet a minimum salary threshold, which may be hiked further, and have their families sponsored by their future employers. "Successful applicants for high-skilled work would be able to bring their immediate family but only if sponsored by their future employers," the government statement noted. There are also plans to introduce in-country security checks to be carried out to make operations faster at passport control at the borders, a similar system of prior authorisation currently operated by the US. This new swift system of e-gate visa checks for visitors coming into the UK on short-stay tourist or business trips will be limited to low-risk countries, which is unlikely to include India. New immigration norms The proposals follow a crucial government-commissioned report from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) last month, which recommended high-skilled workers be given priority over visa applications from low-skilled workers. The report was based on an immigration policy that had a level playing field for EU nationals and applicants from other countries, proposals which were accepted by the UK Cabinet last week. A white paper detailing exactly how the new system will work will be published in the coming weeks, ahead of a new immigration bill to be laid out before Parliament next year, the government said. The announcement was widely expected since the Migration Advisory Committee had called for an end to preferential access to EU workers after Brexit. Under the EU's current free movement rules, citizens from within the 28-member economic bloc have so far been able to enter the UK freely and look for work on arrival as opposed to strict visa norms that apply to non-EU workers from countries like India. The current cap on skilled workers is set at 20,700 per year for migrants from non-EU countries like India, something the committee had recommended should be done away with. However, whether this would ultimately benefit skilled professionals from countries like India will depend on the additional requirements imposed upon applicants and the UK-based companies seeking to employ them. UK home secretary Sajid Javid laid out some of the contours of the new plans as part of his speech to the ongoing Conservative Party annual conference in Birmingham on Tuesday. The major immigration overhaul announcement is being seen as a counter-point to the arrival at the conference of the British PM's key Brexit rival, former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, who is due to make a speech attacking her strategy on negotiating an exit deal with the EU. The issue of migration continues to be a highly contentious one, with control over borders to end free movement of people from member-countries having played a crucial part in the campaign for leaving the EU in the June 2016 Brexit referendum. How the new norms affect India While it's true that the new immigration norms will allow all immigrants an equal scope to acquire jobs in the UK, they might also result in a greater number of Indians employed in the UK having to live away from their families. The new norms focus on high skill-based labour, but are likely to put more stress on businesses and increase the minimum threshold of salaries for immigrants. Harsev Bains of the Indian Workers Association, told The Hindu, The system is already extremely restrictive for workers from India and this is going to make it even more so." Bains added that problems faced by divided families were likely to become more challenging, with other obstacles added by the new norms. He said, Will employers now make a distinction between the types of people who they would be willing to hire: whether they are married or whether they have children? According to the report, former international development secretary Priti Patel said, "Because we are unable to restrict migration from the EU, immigrants from non-EU countries have faced more restrictions to help ease the pressure from immigration. I know that many members of the Indian diaspora find it deeply unfair that other EU nationals effectively get special treatment. Patel was a strong pro-Brexit supporter. She had said that the "unfair" immigration rules for non-EU countries "can and will change if Britain leaves the EU". Reactions to the changes Construction, social care, and hospitality are likely to be among the worst-hit groups among Britain's economy. Professionals in the field are worried about the possible set-backs in reaching targets, or coping without a huge part of the current workforce. The Independent quoted Azad Azam, managing director of building firm DPB Ltd in London, as saying the new approach will mean that UK had little chance of reaching its house-building goal. However, concerns are stronger about a drastic shortage of skills in health and social care, even though the government has committed to fixing and easing the pressure off the system. The system is already under pressure due to funding cuts and an aging population. According to the report, the Nuffield Trust director of strategy, Helen Buckingham, said the planned modified immigration norms could cause further damage to the sector. "Social care providers are already turning away hundreds of thousands of people who would once have been considered in need of help," she said. With inputs from PTI Trump slapped a first round of sanctions on Iran in August after pulling out in May of the international deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions, to the dismay of his European allies. A second round of punitive measures is due in November. The Hague: The UN's top court ordered the United States Wednesday to lift sanctions on humanitarian goods for Iran in a stunning setback for US President Donald Trump. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague handed Iran a major victory, saying that the stinging economic sanctions put Iranian lives at risk. The ruling is likely to rile Trump, who reimposed the sanctions in May after pulling out of Iran's international nuclear deal to the dismay of his allies. But it was unclear whether the judgment will be anything more than symbolic, because both Washington and Tehran have ignored them in the past. The ICJ judges ruled that the sanctions on some goods breached a 1955 "Treaty of Amity" between Iran and the US that predates Iran's Islamic Revolution. "The court finds unanimously that... the United States of America... shall remove by means of its choosing any impediments arising from the measures announced on 8 May to the free exportation to Iran of medicines and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities" as well as airplane parts, chief judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf said. The court said sanctions on goods "required for humanitarian needs... may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." US sanctions also had the "potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran and the lives of its users." Iran's foreign ministry hailed the shock judgment as proof that Tehran was "in the right". Ahead of the decision, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that the sanctions were a form of "psychological warfare" aimed at regime change. Trump slapped a first round of sanctions on Iran in August after pulling out in May of the international deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions, to the dismay of his European allies. A second round of punitive measures is due in November. Iran dragged the US to the ICJ in July, and during four days of hearings in late August, its lawyers accused Washington of "strangling" its economy. Washington however forcefully told the court that it has no jurisdiction to rule on this case as it concerns a matter of national security. "Wednesday's ruling is in fact a decision on so-called provisional measures ahead of a final decision on the matter, which may take several more years," experts said. Rulings by the Hague-based ICJ, which rules on disputes between United Nations members are binding but it has no mechanism through which it can enforce its decisions. In 1986 Washington disregarded the court's finding that it had violated international law by supporting the pro-US Contra rebels in Nicaragua. Iran in turn ignored the ICJ's ruling in 1980 to release hostages taken during the Iran hostage crisis. There was no immediate reaction from the US, but Trump has previously shown his disdain for overarching international organisations that limit US sovereignty, including the UN. He recently heavily criticised the separate International Criminal Court in The Hague over a probe into alleged US abuses in Afghanistan. The 2015 nuclear deal saw Iran agree to limit its nuclear programme and let in international inspectors in return for an end to years of sanctions by the West. But Trump argues that funds from the lifting of sanctions under the pact have been used to support terrorism and build nuclear-capable missiles. European allies have pledged to keep the deal alive, with plans for a mechanism to let firms skirt the US sanctions as they do business with Iran. Despite that, France alleged on Tuesday that the Iranian intelligence ministry was behind a foiled plot to bomb an exiled opposition group near Paris. US-Iran relations have plunged to a new low since Trump's election in 2016, even as the US president reaches out to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un over his nuclear programme. Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani faced off at the UN in September, with Rouhani denouncing leaders with "xenophobic tendencies resembling a Nazi disposition". Despite their 1955 Treaty of Amity and Economic Relations, Iran and the United States have not had diplomatic ties since 1980. The case is the second brought by Tehran against Washington since 2016. That year it brought a suit at the ICJ against the freezing of around $2 billion of Iranian assets abroad which US courts say should go to American victims of terror attacks. Hearings in that case are due to start next week. The US has accused a Chinese naval ship of conducting 'unsafe and unprofessional' manoeuvres when one of its warships entered the waters of the disputed South China Sea. Beijing: The US has accused a Chinese naval ship of conducting "unsafe and unprofessional" manoeuvres when one of its warships entered the waters of the disputed South China Sea. China on Tuesday expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the US warship sailing near the islands and reefs claimed by it in the South China Sea (SCS). "On 30 September, without permission of the Chinese government, the US destroyer Decatur entered neighbouring waters of islands and reefs of China's Nansha Islands," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said in a statement on Tuesday. The Chinese naval ship identified the US vessel, warned and expelled it, Hua said, stressing that China has indisputable sovereignty of the Nansha islands (Spratly Islands) and its adjacent waters. An official US statement described the move by the Chinese destroyer as "unsafe" because it moved within 41 metres of the US warship. US Pacific Fleet deputy spokesman Nate Christensen said the Chinese destroyer had "approached USS Decatur in an unsafe and unprofessional manoeuvre in the vicinity of Gaven Reef in the South China Sea". "The PRC destroyer conducted a series of increasingly aggressive manoeuvres accompanied by warnings for Decatur to depart the area," the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post quoted Christensen as saying. After the Chinese ship came within 45 yards (41 metres) of Decatur's bow it moved to prevent a collision, the report said. Apart from China, Vietnam also lays claim on the Spratly Islands. China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims over the vital transit route for world trade. The US has been sending periodic air and naval expeditions to assert its right of the freedom of the navigation in the SCS. The movement of the US naval ships and aircraft through the area has increased since President Donald Trump took the office. China routinely objects the US presence to register its claims. Hua said that with joint efforts of China and the members of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the current situation in the SCS has continued to stabilise and get better, while repeated provocative US moves under the pretext of the so-called "freedom of navigation operation" have threatened the peace and stability in the region. She said that such US moves are against the common will of countries in the region and the basic international norms, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported on Tuesday. "The Chinese side strongly urges the US side to immediately correct its mistakes and stop such provocative operations," Hua said, adding that China would take all necessary measures to safeguard its national sovereignty and security. The unsafe and aggressive manoeuvres by the US and Chinese ships took place amid the trade war between the world's two largest economies. Both the countries have been slapping tariffs on billions of dollars' worth of their exports. The US also imposed sanctions on a Chinese military unit importing Russian weapon systems. The Chinese military too voiced its opposition to the US ship sailing through the area. A Chinese navy vessel carried out identification and verification procedures of the USS Decatur in accordance with law and warned it, Wu Qian, spokesperson with the Ministry of National Defence said in a statement. "The Chinese military resolutely opposes such actions", he said, adding that China respects and safeguards the freedom of navigation and overflight in the SCS in accordance with international law, but resolutely opposes any illegal provocation in the name of 'freedom of navigation.' "The Chinese military will fulfil its defence duty and continue to take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard the sovereignty and security of the country, as well as the regional peace and stability," he said. US authorities charged four members of a white supremacist movement with inciting violence over the deadly 'Unite the Right' march in Charlottesville, Virginia in August 2017. Washington: US authorities charged four members of a white supremacist movement with inciting violence over the deadly "Unite the Right" march in Charlottesville, Virginia in August 2017. The event culminated in a man driving a car into a crowd of counter-protesters, killing a woman and injuring 19 other people. President Donald Trump infamously took 48 hours to respond only to blame "both sides" despite overwhelming evidence that neo-Nazis were the principal source of violence. Benjamin Daley, Michael Miselis, Thomas Gillen and Cole White were arrested after being identified in pictures and video attacking counter protestors during the march, which resulted in serious injuries, an indictment issued Tuesday said. All four were members of the southern California-based "Rise Above Movement," which prosecutors described as a militant white supremacist and anti-Semitic group. The four "traveled to Charlottesville to encourage, promote, incite, participate in and commit violent acts in furtherance of a riot," according to a criminal complaint filed in Charlottesville federal court. The complaint said they had already attended political rallies in Huntington Beach and Berkeley, California in 2017 where they attacked other protestors. Their own "extensive" social media presence documented their violent actions in the California protests and at the August 11-12 "Unite The Right" protest in Charlottesville, said district attorney Thomas Cullen. Each was charged with multiple counts of inciting to riot, which Cullen said could bring a maximum 10 years in prison. Cullen said the investigation was aided by information in a joint investigation by the ProPublica investigative journalism group and PBS television's Frontline show. The protests saw hundreds of neo-Nazi sympathizers, some carrying firearms, yelling white nationalist slogans while wielding flaming torches in scenes eerily reminiscent of racist rallies held in America's South before the Civil Rights movement. They had gathered to protest efforts to remove statues of Confederate leaders, including the Confederacy's top general, Robert E Lee. On the second day, 12 August, fighting broke out between neo-Nazi supporters and anti-fascists from a black-clad group called Antifa. Heather Heyer, 32, was killed and 19 others were injured when 20-year-old James Fields allegedly drove into a crowd of protesters. Fields has been charged with murder and hate crimes. Addressing reporters two days later, Trump appeared to blame the right and the left equally, drawing widespread scorn. "You had some very bad people in that group, but you also had people that were very fine people, on both sides," he said. That drew tough criticism from his predecessor in the White House, Barack Obama. "How hard can that be, to say that Nazis are bad?" Obama said. There is unlikely to be any changes in America's policy on suspension of aid to Pakistan until it makes substantial progress against terrorists and their safe havens, the Trump administration has told Islamabad as the two countries try to reset their strained ties. Washington: There is unlikely to be any changes in America's policy on suspension of aid to Pakistan until it makes substantial progress against terrorists and their safe havens, the Trump administration has told Islamabad as the two countries try to reset their strained ties. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, during their meetings with Pakistan's new Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in Washington, are understood to have told the Pakistani leadership that in its assessment the US does not see any changes on the ground when it comes to taking actions against terrorists operating from its soil. Given Pakistan's influence over the Taliban, the Trump administration also wants Islamabad to bring them to the peace table. Notably, the State Department till late in the night had refrained from issuing any readout of the meeting between Qureshi and Pompeo, which is understood to have lasted for 20 minutes at their Foggy Bottom headquarters. The White House normally does not issue a readout of the meeting that its National Security Advisor has with foreign leaders. Qureshi and Pompeo did appear for a handshake photo op before the meeting, during which they did not issue opening remarks. According to informed sources familiar with the development, the US side is upset because of Qureshi's faux pas about handshake he had with President Donald Trump during a luncheon in New York, which he described to the media as a meeting. Meanwhile, in a readout of the meetings, the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington said that Qureshi had a wide range of discussions with both Pompeo and Bolton which included among others bilateral and regional issues. Qureshi said that close engagement between Pakistan and the US had always been mutually beneficial and a factor for stability in South Asia. He stressed that going forward, a broad-based and structured framework for dialogue would best serve the two countries' shared interests, the statement said. Noting that Pakistan and the US share a common desire for peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region at large, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's support for a political settlement in Afghanistan, saying the use of force had failed to deliver results. Qureshi told Pompeo that "peace in South Asia, which was a common goal for both the US and Pakistan, would remain elusive until all disputes, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir, are resolved". Pompeo, according to the embassy statement, said the US looked forward to working with the new government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan in implementing its reform agenda. "In the context of achieving stability in South Asia, Qureshi briefed his US interlocutor about India's aggressive posturing in the region. "Qureshi underscored that, on its part, Pakistan remained committed to engaging India in a comprehensive peace dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute," the statement added. The ties between the two countries strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August 2017, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists. Last month, the Trump administration cancelled $300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups active on its soil. China wants to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation with the Maldives, president Xi Jinping said in a congratulatory message to the newly elected Maldivian president, the leader of an opposition that has vowed to review Chinese projects. Beijing: China wants to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation with the Maldives, president Xi Jinping said in a congratulatory message to the newly elected Maldivian president, the leader of an opposition that has vowed to review Chinese projects. China and India are going head-to-head for influence in the Indian Ocean nation, a string of palm-fringed islands and atolls 523 km (325 miles) southwest of Indias southern tip. The Maldives opposition said before the election it would review Chinas investments in its Belt and Road infrastructure initiative, partly out of concern over terms, as experts have warned that the archipelago risked falling into a debt trap. Xi told Ibrahim Mohamed Solih that China and the Maldives share a long-standing friendship, Chinas official Xinhua news agency said late on Sunday. China is willing to work with Maldives to continue to cement their friendship and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields to better benefit the people of both countries, Xinhua said. Xi told Solih that he valued the development of relations and was willing to join hands with Solih to lift the comprehensive friendly cooperative partnership between China and Maldives to a new level, the report added. Defeated president Abdulla Yameen had drawn the Maldives closer to China since 2013 in a Beijing-backed infrastructure boom. Chinas Foreign Ministry last week urged continuity and stability in the Maldives after the election. In the latest development, Bharti Airtel has announced an acquihire deal with AuthMe ID Services in an attempt to strengthen Artificial Intelligence (AI) portfolio. For the uninitiated, AuthMe is a Bengaluru-based startup focused mainly on artificial intelligence solution. With this deal, the startup will be helping Airtels Airtel X Labs initiative in Bengaluru and serve customers with innovative digital products. Airtel has set up Airtel X Labs with the aim of driving cutting-edge innovation in the areas of AI, IoT, AR and VR and is building a world-class team for the facility. The telecom services provider has also acquired flagship solutions developed including Callup AI and Fintech OCR. Callup AI has created a chat and voice assistant to quickly and effectively resolve customer queries over email, chat and phone calls. On the other hand, the Fintech OCR is designed for processing KYC docs, bank/credit card/loan statements, mark sheets, and can be customised to process known formats of other documents. A few days back, Airtel had announced massive network expansion in Karnataka as part of its network transformation initiative Project Leap. By March 2019, Airtel plans to roll out 13,000 new mobile sites along with an addition of more than 4500 kilometers of optic fiber to enable high speed data transmission. Airtel also plans to deploy pre-5G Massive MIMO technology across major business and residential hubs in the two states to step up high speed data experience for customers. Harmeen Mehta, Global CIO, Bharti Airtel said: The natural colors space continues to gather speed in its shift toward close-to-nature ingredients, which are phasing out artificial dyes. Aside from this, there is a... Read More Global food trade has accelerated and is poised to hit a record in volume and value terms, according to a new Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations... Read More North Branch volleyball wins regional title Thursday, November 11, 2021 7:40 p.m. MT. MORRIS The North Branch volleyball team swept Birch Run to win 3-0, claiming the Div. 2 regional title tonight at Mt. Morris. North Branch will move on... North Branch volleyball advances to regional finals Tuesday, November 9, 2021 8:08 p.m. MT. MORRIS The North Branch volleyball team took down Essexville-Garber 3-0 in the Div. 2 regional semifinals hosted by Mt. Morris tonight. North Branch will move on to... Football playoffs scores Friday, Oct. 29, 2021, 9:15 p.m., ROCHESTER Lapeers football season ended with a 42-20 loss to undefeated Rochester Adams at Rochester tonight. North Branchs season came to a close as the Broncos were handed... Week 9 Football Scores Friday, Oct. 22, 2021, 10:18 p.m. DAVISON The Lapeer football team ended up in a barn-burner against Davison tonight winning 38-35 on a 42-yard field goal by David Smith with 3.8 seconds left... Del Taco Expands Denver Footprint with Existing Multi-Unit Operator Seasoned Franchise Partner Brent Veach Opens Castle Rock Location to Grow Brands Regional Presence October 03, 2018 // Franchising.com // LAKE FOREST, Calif. - Del Taco, the value-oriented QSR-plus concept beloved for its handmade American-style Mexican cuisine, announced the opening of its 17th Denver area restaurant with longtime franchisee and multi-unit owner Brent Veach. Located in the scenic town of Castle Rock at 6383 Promenade Pkwy, the newest restaurant marks Veachs 22nd store in Colorado and his 48th Del Taco location. With more than 560 locations across 14 states, Del Taco offers its guests a unique variety of both Mexican and American favorites, such as tacos, burritos, burgers and fries, prepared fresh daily in the restaurant. Each meal is prepared to order with quality ingredients like fresh grilled chicken and carne asada steak, hand-sliced avocado, hand-grated cheddar cheese, slow-cooked beans and a fan favorite - creamy Queso Blanco. After investing with Del Taco for nearly 20 years, Ive never felt more optimistic about the companys growth than I do today, said Veach, who joined the franchise system in 1999 and is opening the first Denver-market location in 7 years. From menu additions to brand refreshes, our leadership team is clearly making strategic changes to set us up for long-term success, and were seeing consistent proof in our system-wide sales increases. Prior to Del Taco, Veach earned an expertise in accounting as a CPA at various high profile companies. Now, along with having more than 45 Del Taco restaurants across Arizona and Colorado, Veach also serves as president of Del Taco's Franchise Marketing Advisory Team, which works with brand leadership to achieve transparent franchisee and franchisor relations. In support of the brands national expansion, Del Tacos recent refresh adds a new tagline Fresh Mexican Grill - to its iconic name in recognition of the fresh, quality ingredients in every product. The new advertising campaign Celebrating the Hardest Working Hands in Fast Food, reinforces the brands fresh ingredient preparation, which includes chopping, grilling, slicing, and shredding every day. Updated packaging, new hospitality initiatives, and redesigned menu board are among other brand alterations. Del Tacos franchising business model, made up of operations consulting, management training programs and marketing support, is designed to attract individuals or groups with a strong business acumen, experience in the restaurant industry and an interest in multi-unit franchising. The brands unique QSR+ positioning within the rapidly growing Mexican quick-service segment presents great growth potential for experienced multi-unit operators looking to diversify their portfolios with a brand consistently on the forefront of delivering industry leading results. To learn more about Del Tacos franchise opportunity, visit www.deltacofranchise.com. About Del Taco Restaurants, Inc. Del Taco offers a unique variety of both Mexican and American favorites such as burritos and fries, prepared fresh in every restaurants working kitchen with the value and convenience of a drive-thru. Del Tacos menu items taste better because they are made with quality ingredients like fresh grilled chicken and carne asada steak, hand-sliced avocado, hand-grated cheddar cheese, slow-cooked beans made from scratch, and creamy Queso Blanco. Del Tacos new advertising campaign, Celebrating the Hardest Working Hands in Fast Food further communicates the companys commitment to providing guests with fresh, quality food prepared by hand every day. Founded in 1964, today Del Taco serves more than three million guests each week at its more than 560 restaurants across 14 states. For more information, visit www.deltaco.com Media Contact: JoeyLauren Jiracek Public Relations Account Lead Office: 847-897-7496 Cell: 708-921-1033 SOURCE Del Taco Restaurants, Inc. ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus China star Fan apologises for tax evasion after order to pay $129m AFP, Beijing : Chinese superstar Fan Bingbing took to social media for the first time in months Wednesday to apologise to fans and the Communist Party for tax evasion, shortly after news broke that authorities had ordered her to pay nearly $130 million in back taxes and fines. The 36-year-old actress, model and producer had been a ubiquitous household name in China for years and tasted Hollywood success with a role in the 2014 blockbuster "X-Men: Days of Future Past." But she disappeared from the public eye and her once active social media presence went silent in May after allegations emerged that she had evaded taxes on a lucrative movie shoot, charges her studio called "slander". Her sudden absence from screens and advertisements across the country spurred rumors that she had been snatched by officials at a time when Beijing is cracking down on what it views as excesses in the film and television industry. Chinese tax authorities have now laid at least part of the mystery to rest, ruling that both Fan and companies controlled by her failed to pay tens of millions of dollars in taxes, the official Xinhua news service reported on Wednesday. The report said Fan would have to pay a total of 883 million yuan ($129 million) in owed taxes, fines and penalties, adding that she would avoid criminal prosecution as long as she met a repayment deadline. The Undead Archives I have finally salvaged my pre-Blogger TDR archives and added them into Blogger. They are almost totally in the form of one giant post for each month. And the formatting strayed from the originals. Sorry. But historians everywhere can rejoice that this treasure trove of my thoughts is restored to the world. Kevin is Just another X Ray Technician trying to get into blogging and help individuals interested in an amazing career for xray tech. Register for options trading expo to get the best stock market education.Learn about bettertrades mission,methods and pledge here. Please note. I welcome any and all comments from any political perspective. I will not stand or approve any swearing, and personal attacks will likely also not be approved. Local Salt Lake City and those throughout Utah area bars and other venues will be showing UFC 229. Make Easy Money Referring Friends to BetOnline for UFC 229 ---------------- Featured Venue Bout Time Pub & Grub (All Locations) Be sure to join us at Bout Time Pub and Grub for the best UFC 229 experience!! We have the best seats outside of the octagon with plenty of TVs to catch all the action!! We also have our Ultimate Nachos and many other made from scratch menu items to knock out your hunger!! Get here early so you dont miss a second!! Prelims start at 6 pm and Main Card starts at 8 pm. 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Back in the days, Sapkowskis books were not that popular outside of Poland and CDPR was a very young dev team, so the rights were sold at an undisclosed but very cheap price, without knowing that it would turn out being one of the biggest franchises around in a few years. CD Projekt RED doesnt believe it is required to pay more on top of what it has already offered, as part of the original deal, but is willing to reach an agreement so that it can remain in a good relationship with the author. In the Companys opinion the demands expressed in the notice are groundless with regard to their merit as well as the stipulated amount, said CD Projekt. The Company had legitimately and legally acquired copyright to Mr. Andrzej Sapkowskis work, insofar as is required for its use in games developed by the Company. All liabilities payable by the Company in association therewith have been properly discharged. It is the Companys will to maintain good relations with authors of works which have inspired CD PROJEKT REDs own creations, added CD Projekt. Consequently, the Board will go to great lengths to ensure amicable resolution of this dispute; however, any such resolution must be respectful of previously expressed intents of both parties, as well as existing contracts. Unfortunately, it looks like Sapkowski and his team of lawyers is not willing to cease the cause and will apparently go forward into it, in the effort to get the amount requested. Hopefully this doesnt harm the franchise and doesnt prevent more games inspired to The Witcher universe to be released in the future. Source: VG247.com Nokia 7.1 specifications, renders and price leak ahead of launch News oi-Abhinaya Prabhu Nokia 7.1 details are out! Nokia is all set to launch a new smartphone on October 4 at an event in London. While there is no clarity regarding the device that will be unveiled tomorrow, the company has sent out media invites for a launch event on October 11 in India. So long, rumors pointed out that the Nokia 7.1 Plus will be unveiled at the global launch event but latest reports suggest that the Nokia 7.1 launch is imminent. A recent report by WinFuture shows the complete details of the Nokia 7.1. It has revealed the press renders, release date, specifications and pricing of the upcoming Nokia smartphone. From the previous reports, it looks like there is hardly any difference between the Nokia 7.1 and Nokia 7.1 Plus. As the device has already passed the FCC certification, we can expect it to arrive in Canada and the US markets in the near future. Nokia 7.1 specifications Going by the report, the Nokia 7.1 will arrive with 5.84-inch IPS LCD display with a FHD+ resolution of 2244 x 1080 pixels and an aspect ratio of 19:9 as there is a notch on top of the screen. It is speculated to get the power from a Snapdragon 636 SoC paired with 3GB/4GB and 32GB/64GB storage space. There will be a microSD card slot for expandable storage facility. For imaging, it appears to have dual cameras at the rear with 12MP and 5MP sensors. From the renders, we can expect the Nokia smartphone to feature a glass back design with an aluminum side frame measuring 8mm in thickness. Expected price Nokia 7.1 is speculated to be released on October 22 in Europe. It is expected to be priced at 349 (approx. Rs. 29,500) for the base variant and 400 (approx. Rs. 33,800s) for the high-end variant. This pricing is similar to the cost of the 4GB RAM variant revealed by a tipster a few days back. Nokia 7.1 or Nokia 7.1 Plus As mentioned above, the specifications, design and other aspects of the Nokia 7.1 remain similar to that of the Plus variant. However, it remains to be unknown if these smartphones are the same devices with different monikers for different markets. Best Mobiles in India Samsung Galaxy A6s will be manufactured by Xiaomi: Reports News oi-Karan Sharma Samsung and Wintech are in talk and it seems that the Galaxy A6s will be the first model to be manufactured by Wintech. According to a recent report by the Korean Herald, the South Korean tech giant Samsung is in talks with Wintech, who is the original Design Manufacturer for the Xiaomi's smartphones. The report has also revealed that the Galaxy A6s might be the first Samsung model to be manufactured by Wintech. The units which will be produced by Wintech will be only for the Chinese smartphone market. The Galaxy A6s has been into the limelight for quite a time now. There are many rumors and speculation surfaced on the web about the expected specs and features. The smartphone was also spotted as the Galaxy P30 but later it was confirmed to be the A6s. The device was also expected to feature a fullscreen display design with minimum bezels on all the sides. However, Samsung hasn't confirmed anything on shutting down the Tianjin plant. Moreover, ODM units which will be released in China will come with its logo. This shift will help the company in cutting the manufacturing costs. But do remember that the company is yet to make an official announcement about the deal. So we can't jump to any conclusion and wait for the official announcement. It seems Samsung is trying to do out of the box and accepted to do experiments with its products. Recently the company has launched its first ever smartphone with a triple rear camera. It features a 24MP primary camera coupled with 5MP depth lens which powers Live Focus feature that controls the depth of field. The third camera sensor comes with an 8MP 120 Ultra-Wide Lens, which has the same viewing angle as the human eye. This allows users to capture unrestricted wide-angle photos exactly like what one can see. The front camera comes with a 12MP camera sensor, along with technology like Pixel Binning that allows the device to intelligently detect low light conditions and combine four pixels into one. Users can also create avatars using the AR Emoji feature. Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications Sony Xperia L3 leaked renders suggests a side-way fingerprint sensor News oi-Vivek Xperia L3 has an HD+ display Sony recently launched the Sony Xperia XZ3, the flagship smartphone from the brand with premium features like all-glass design, 18:9 aspect ratio display, Snapdragon 845 SoC and more. And now, the company is all set for the launch of a new mid-tier smartphone, aka, the Sony Xperia L3. The Sony Xperia L3 is likely to be the first mid-tier smartphone from the brand with a dual camera setup. Just like the Xperia XZ3, the Xperia L3 also has a taller 18:9 aspect ratio display with a no-notch design. Sony Xperia L3 design The Sony Xperia L3 does not look different from the other smartphones from the brand. According to the leaked 360-degree render of the Xperia L3, the smartphone has an all-glass design with a 2.5D curved finish. The phone has a 5.7-inch display with 9mm of thickness with a USB type C port on the bottom portion of the smartphone and a 3.5-mm headphone jack on the top portion. So, unlike the Xperia XZ3, the Xperia L3 does have a dedicated 3.5 mm headphone jack. The volume and the power button are located on the right bezel, and the fingerprint sensor is located in between the volume and power-buttons. Overall, the Sony Xperia L3 does look like a well-built mid-tier smartphone. Sony Experia L3 specifications As of now, the only known specifications of the Xperia L3 is the fact that the phone will have a 5.7-inch HD+ (720p) display with 2.5D curved tempered glass protection. The smartphone is likely to come with at least 3/4 GB of RAM with 32/64 GB of internal storage with a micro SD card slot for additional storage expansion. The smartphone is likely to run on Android 9 Pie with custom Sony skin on top. The phone is likely to run on a mid-tier Qualcomm Snapdragon processor (probably a 600 series chipset). As of now, there is no information on either pricing or the launch of the Sony Xperia L3. Considering the specs-list, the Sony Xperia L3 is likely to be priced near $300 (Rs 21,000), which is a bit expensive for a smartphone with a 720p display. Via Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications Xiaomi Mi A2 Paytm Mall offer: Heres how to get Rs. 3,000 discount News oi-Abhinaya Prabhu Xiaomi Mi A2 is available at a much lower pricing for a limited time period. Xiaomi Mi A2 that was launched in India in August starting from Rs. 16,999. The smartphone was made available on flash sale via Amazon India and the official Xiaomi online store. Now, this smartphone is available on open sale today for the interested buyers to grab hold of it. If you want to purchase the Xiaomi Mi A2 on discount, you can get it with attractive discounts via Paytm Mall. Notably, the smartphone is available with 10% cashback offer in using select bank credit and debit cards. How to buy Xiaomi Mi A2 under discount The high-end variant of the Mi A2 with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage space is available on Paytm Mall for as low as Rs. 13,900. The Paytm Mall off can be availed in the form of both ICICI bank and Paytm cashback. The second-generation Android One smartphone from Xiaomi at various price points as it is sold by different sellers with a maximum pricing of Rs. 17,490. Irrespective of the seller, the price and color of the smartphone is available at 10% cashback on using the promo code MOB10. So, the maximum discount could be Rs. 1,749 if the device is priced at Rs. 17,490. In addition to this, there is an additional 10% cashback on using an ICICI Bank debit or credit card for the purchase until October 5. On using the promo code MOB10 on checkout and using an ICICI Bank card for the purchase, Mi A2 will be available at a discounted price of Rs. 13,900 to Rs. 14,000. This is almost Rs. 3,000 lesser than the cost of the device on Mi.com and Amazon India. Xiaomi Mi A2 specifications The Mi A2 is the second Android One smartphone from the company and the sequel to the Mi A2 launched last year. The device runs stock Android 8.1 Oreo and is likely to get the Android Pie update soon. Notably, it received the Android Pie beta update lately. The smartphone comes fitted with a 5.99-inch FHD+ display with an aspect ratio of 18:9.It makes use of an octa-core Snapdragon 660 SoC and there are dual rear cameras with 12MP + 20MP sensors. There is a 20MP selfie camera with a dedicated LED flash at the front. Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications Microsoft introduces Robot OS for Windows 10 News oi-Sandeep Sarkar The Redmond giant has announced the new OS at the "ROSCon 2018" which is held in Madrid, Spain. Microsoft has officially announced a new "Robot Operating System (ROS1)" for Windows 10 platform. The company has announced the experimental release in an aim to bring the features such as computer vision, Machine Learning (ML), Cloud services and some other Microsoft technologies for education, home, commercial and industrial robots. The Redmond giant has announced the new OS at the "ROSCon 2018" which is held in Madrid, Spain. The company has demonstrated a "ROBOTIS Turtlebot 3" robot which automatically recognizes and steers towards the person closest to it. The "ROBOTIS Turtlebot 3" robot runs on the "Windows 10 IoT Enterprise" solution. Lou Amadio, Principal Software Engineer, Windows IoT, Microsoft had written in a blog post that "This development will bring the manageability and security of 'Windows 10 Internet of Things (IoT) Enterprise' solutions to the 'ROS' ecosystem". The "ROS" is basically a set of tools and libraries which used to develop complex robots and "Windows 10 IOT Enterprise" and delivers security solutions as well as enterprise manageability to the industry based IoT devices used in retail, healthcare, manufacturing, and other industries. Microsoft has also joined an open source project which will further extend the advanced capability of the ROS software manufacturing. This open source project is called ROS Industrial Consortium. With this, the company will be able to improve the productivity and return on investment of the industrial robots. Amadio had further commented that "Windows has been a trusted partner of robotic and industrial systems for decades and we're looking forward to bringing the intelligent edge to robotics by bringing more advanced features." He also said that "Microsoft will host the Windows builds for 'ROS1' and shortly 'ROS2', as well as provide documentation, development and deployment solutions for Windows". It is good to see that the tech giants are focusing more on Machine Learning and AI-based products. These products are surely going to make our lives easier. It would be interesting to see what all the other tech giants bring for the masses in the coming days. We will keep you posted on the further updates on the same, so stay tuned with us. Image Source Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications Vodafone launches Rs. 99 and Rs. 109 prepaid plans; offer unlimited voice calling News oi-Priyanka Dua Vodafone Idea has announced their partnership with digital payments company Paytm, to offer a unique proposition to its prepaid customers. The tariff war in the telecom sector is not going to end soon as Vodafone has launched new plans to take on Reliance Jio and Airtel. Vodafone has come up with two new plans of Rs 99 and Rs 109 for its prepaid users in which the company is providing unlimited calling, Telecomtalk reported. Under this new plan of Rs 99, the company is providing unlimited local, and STD for 28 days, while Rs 109 is also providing 1GB along with others benefits, however, there is a catch as the company is only offering 250 minutes of voice calls per day. For those who are not aware, Vodafone Idea has announced their partnership with digital payments company Paytm, to offer a unique proposition to its prepaid customers. Under this partnership, customers who transact for the first time on Paytm can avail an assured cashback of Rs. 25 on a minimum recharge of Rs. 149 done through Paytm while existing Paytm users can enjoy cashback of Rs. 20. In addition to that, customers will get vouchers worth Rs. 375 from Paytm which can be used to buy movie tickets and to shop on Paytm Mall. The company has also introduced AllRounder Recharge - a combo offer for Vodafone prepaid customers in Chennai and Tamil Nadu. Under this new offer, users will get talk time, free data and discounted tariff rate by a single recharge, starting Rs 25. To recall, Vodafone completed its merger with Idea in August this year and the merger is expected to generate Rs.140 billion annual synergy, including opex synergies of Rs. 84 billion, equivalent to a net present value of approximately Rs.700 billion. Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications US jails Chinese woman for smuggling military secrets Iran Press TV Tue Oct 2, 2018 11:22AM A Chinese woman has been jailed in the United States after pleading guilty to smuggling sensitive space and military communications technology back to China, the US Justice Department says. Si Chen, 33, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison on Monday, after admitting in July that she had conspired to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a law that bars exporting certain goods to other nations. "This defendant knowingly participated in a plot to secretly send items with military applications to China," US Attorney Nick Hanna said in a statement. "The smuggled items could be used in a number of damaging ways, including in equipment that could jam our satellite communications. We will aggressively target all persons who provide foreign agents with technology in violation of US law," he added. Chen, who used to live in on the suburbs of Los Angeles, California, was taken into custody in May last year. According to prosecutors, Chen purchased and smuggled, among other things, numerous sensitive items used in military communications jammers and devices used for space communications between 2013 and 2015. She has also pleaded guilty to money laundering and using a fake passport. Joseph Macias, a Homeland Security agent, said that Washington had "good reasons" to keep a close eye on trade with China. "One of HSI's top enforcement priorities is preventing US military products and sensitive technology from falling into the hands of those who might seek to harm America or its interests," he said. The Chinese woman had rented an office in Pomona to take delivery of the export-controlled items before shipping them to Hong Kong and then on to China. Court documents mention at least three unindicted co-conspirators who worked with Chen to smuggle the items to Hong Kong. Chen's case came a week after the US arrested another Chinese national on similar charges. Ji Chaoqun, a 27-year-old electrical engineering at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, is accused of acting as an "illegal agent" for a provincial department of China's top espionage agency, the Ministry of State Security. Washington has long been accusing Beijing of spying on major American institutions. In June, former CIA case Officer Kevin Mallory was found guilty of passing the spying agency's secret and top secret documents to Chinese intelligence agents, in a case prosecutors warned was "no isolated incident." Tensions are already running high between the US and China due to a growing trade war. US President Donald Trump has further tested China by approving a $330 million arms deal with Taiwan and stepping up US military presence in the South China Sea. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address France Freezes Iranian Intelligence Assets In Sign Of Worsening Relations RFE/RL's Radio Farda October 02, 2018 France says it has frozen the assets of Iran's Ministry of Security and Intelligence, as well as of two Iranian men thought to be members of the country's intelligence service, in a sign of deteriorating relations between the two countries. The French government made the announcement in its official gazette on October 2, identifying one of the men as Assadollah Assadi, the same name as an Iranian diplomat who has been arrested over an alleged plot to bomb an Iranian opposition group in France in June. The asset freeze also applied to Saeid Hashemi Moghadam, said to be the deputy minister and director-general of intelligence, and to the internal security directorate of the Intelligence Ministry. "An attempted attack in Villepinte was foiled on June 30. An incident of such gravity on our national territory could not go unpunished," said a joint statement by the Foreign, Interior, and Economy ministries. Worsening relations between Paris and Tehran come as the Iranians are trying to maintain ties with Europe after the United States pulled out of a nuclear accord that curtailed Iran's nuclear ambitions in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. France has been one of the staunchest advocates of salvaging the 2015 deal. A German court said on October 1 it had approved Assadi's extradition to Belgium, where he is accused of masterminding the plot. Assadi was accredited as a counsellor at the Iranian Embassy in Vienna before his July detention in Germany. Iran has denied the existence of any such plot, with Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi saying the allegations were "aimed at damaging EU-Iran relations." "We deny the accusations and forcefully condemn the Iranian diplomat's arrest and call for his immediate release," the Iranian Foreign Ministry said in an October 2 statement. France gave no details of which assets are involved in the freeze, describing its measures as "targeted and proportionate." It added that the government had acted against the "instigators, authors, and accomplices" of the foiled attack. "Behind all this was a long, meticulous, and detailed investigation by our [intelligence] services that enabled us to reach the conclusion, without any doubt, that responsibility fell on the Intelligence Ministry," the Reuters news agency quoted an unidentified French diplomatic source as saying. The source added that Moghadam had ordered the attack. On June 30, Iranian opposition supporters gathered in Villepinte for a rally of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), a Paris-based umbrella bloc of opposition groups that back the overthrow of Iran's clerical leadership. That day in Brussels, law enforcement authorities apprehended two Belgian nationals of Iranian origin -- a husband and wife -- with 500 grams of explosive and a detonation device found in their car. Meanwhile, French police detained an alleged accomplice of the pair in Paris. He was also described as a Belgian national of Iranian descent. Assadi was taken into custody in Bavaria on July 1 on a European arrest warrant. German prosecutors allege that he is an intelligence agent who met in late June with the husband-and-wife team in Luxembourg, where he handed the couple the explosives. With reporting by Reuters and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/france-freezes-iranian-intelligence -assets-over-suspected-bomb-plot-in-june/29520990.html Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address French Gov't Says Freezing of Iran's Assets Linked to Foiled Attack Sputnik News 12:23 02.10.2018(updated 13:00 02.10.2018) The news comes a day after a German court ruled to extradite Iranian diplomat Assadollah Assadi, who is suspected to be an intelligence agent, to Belgium, as he had allegedly attempted to stage a terrorist attack. France decided to seize the assets, due to links between the Iranian intelligence services and a foiled attack against an Iranian opposition rally near Paris on June 30. "An attempted attack in Villepinte was foiled on June 30. An incident of such gravity on our national territory could not go unpunished," a joint statement issued by the French Foreign Ministry, the French Interior Ministry and the French Economy Ministry said. According to the statement, the assets, belonging to Iranian nationals who were allegedly involved in the preparation of the thwarted terrorist attack in France, will be frozen for six months, as well as the assets of the internal security section of Iran's Intelligence Ministry. French authorities were referring to the case that emerged earlier this summer, when several individuals, including Assadi, a diplomat from the Iranian Embassy in Vienna, were detained in France, Germany and Belgium as part of a Brussels-led probe into a foiled bomb attack plot in the Parisian suburb of Villepinte. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Navy Undersecretary Modly Shores Up Alliances in Oceana Oct. 2, 2018 By Jim Garamone DoD News, Defense Media Activity ABOARD A MILITARY AIRCRAFT -- Freedom of navigation and issues of sovereignty were front and center as Navy Undersecretary Thomas B. Modly journeyed through Oceana. The undersecretary spoke to reporters via phone from Guam. The trip involved stops in Kiribati and its capital on the island of Tarawa. Modly and his party also visited Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Fiji, and the Federated States of Micronesia, and it ended in Guam. Defense Secretary James N. Mattis asked Modly to make the trip. "It was a fascinating trip for me, having not spent too much time in this region in either my professional or personal life," he said. The vastness of the Pacific theater impressed on him and reinforced the "tyranny of distance" that the area entails, Modly said. He added that he also was impressed by "the broad range of friendships and partnerships we have across the region in these small island nations who have big challenges." Mattis encouraged Modly to take the trip to cultivate and reinforce U.S. partnership with the nations. He noted that the second line of effort in the National Defense Strategy is to build and strengthen partnerships and alliances. "This is part of that effort to get out here to insure our friends that the United States is committed to freedom of navigation and peace and prosperity for the region," he said. Freedom of navigation is the key concern for the nations. More than 80 percent of their economic zones are water. "When you look at that and you look at it on a map, they are heavily dependent on access to those waters, and also [on] control and maintenance of those waters for fishing," Modly said. Fishing is the primary source of revenue for the nations, and protecting fisheries and sovereignty is of primary importance. Freedom of Navigation Modly, who served in the Navy from 1983 to 1990, said that freedom of navigation was important to the United States then and it is just as important today. "From my perspective, I don't think that's really changed: these are international waters, and they're governed by international rules," he said. The people of the region are concerned about their ability to maintain freedom of navigation. Modly assured them that the United States and its allies in the region are committed to maintain that right. The islanders are finding it is becoming more difficult to manage these waters because "more and more countries, or at least commercial operators from various countries, are encroaching on those areas," he said. The islands do not have large navies; they have small coast guards. "They are investing in some technologies to give them better situational awareness of what's happening in the seas, and I was introduced to some very interesting things that they are doing to try and maintain that and we're trying to help them there as well," Modly said. The undersecretary was supposed to visit Chuuk, but the water landing of an aircraft in the lagoon there stopped that. He offered his aircraft to evacuate four people injured, but the U.S. Coast Guard already had that covered. The Navy did help however, as a Navy underwater construction team working in the lagoon rescued the passengers and crew of the Air New Guinea flight. The sailors also will retrieve the planes' black boxes. "It is just a great example of how our presence even with just a few people on these islands can be critical to helping in these types of situations," Modly said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemeni forces target Saudi positions in Najran with missiles IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Tehran, Oct 2, IRNA -- Yemeni Army's missile and artillery unit targeted the Saudi mercenaries' positions in Najran Province with missiles and several mortars. A Yemeni military source said the missile and artillery unit of the Army and Yemeni Popular Committees on Tuesday morning launched a rocket and several mortar shells, targeting Saudi military positions in the Al-Baq desert near the Al-Khadra crossing in Najran Province and their mercenaries, which caused considerable damage. Yemeni army engineering units and popular committees destroyed two military vehicles and an armored vehicle of the Saudi Army by placing a few bombs on their path in the Alajasher desert in Najran Province on Sunday morning. 9455**1420 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 6 Afghan soldiers killed in US-led air raid IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Kabul, Oct 2, IRNA -- Six Afghan soldiers were killed in a foreign troops air strike led by a US commander in Nad Ali District of Helmand Province, and several others were wounded, Afghan news websites announced on Tuesday. Afghan news agencies said the soldiers who were supposed to attack Taliban yesterday were targeted in Loye Manda area of Nad Ali district. Omar Zwak, a spokesman for the governor of Helmand, confirmed the attack, but did not comment on the casualties. Neither foreign troops, nor Ministry of Defense nor Afghan security agencies have made any comment on the issue. Officials from Lashkargah hospital in Helmand told Afghan media 29 military and police officers who were wounded during the air strike have so far been transferred to the medical center. Meanwhile, Afghanistan's Defense Ministry issued a statement on Tuesday, announcing 61 Taliban militants were killed in air and ground strikes and 20 others were wounded. The statement did not provide any information on the number of Afghan casualties during the clashes. 9477**2044 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 3rd Battalion, 8th Marines deploys to Norway as Marine Rotational Force Europe US Marine Corps News By (Courtesy article) | Marine Corps Forces Africa | October 2, 2018 This is the first deployment of the expanded Marine Corps rotational presence of approximately 700 Marines in Norway, which was announced by the Government of Norway in August. The expanded rotational presence was marked by a transfer-of-authority ceremony today in Setermoen, Norway, presided over by Maj. Gen. Russell A.C. Sanborn, commanding general of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa. The Marine Corps rotational presence in Norway facilitates military exercises in the Nordic regions that: supports NATO and USEUCOM campaign plans; increases interoperability with Allies and partners; and improves the Marine Corps' cold weather and mountain warfare proficiencies. The U.S. has a long and close relationship with our NATO Ally Norway on defense and security cooperation and through its continued rotational deployment, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marines will continue this proud tradition. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary General previews defence ministerial NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation 02 Oct. 2018 Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg previewed this week's meeting of NATO Defence Ministers at a press conference on Tuesday (2 October 2018). Ministers will take forward the important decisions leaders made at the NATO Summit in July to adapt and strengthen the Alliance. They are expected to discuss progress in boosting NATO's deterrence and defence and review progress in defence spending and burden-sharing, and in adapting the NATO Command Structure. Ministers will also discuss NATO-EU cooperation, and hold a meeting of the NATO-Georgia Commission. On Wednesday, there will first be a NATO-Georgia Commission meeting. Ministers will take stock of the developments in NATO-Georgia cooperation, including the implementation of the Substantial NATO-Georgia Package, and discuss Black Sea security - "a priority for NATO and for Georgia" said Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. In the evening, ministers will discuss how they can further improve burden sharing. "Over the past two years, European Allies and Canada have spent a cumulative $41 billion US dollars more on defence", said Mr. Stoltenberg, demonstrating the "new sense of urgency to invest 2 % of GDP on defence and to have credible national plans to get there". The Secretary General added that he expects "all Allies to stay on course, to continue making progress, and to honour their commitments". On Thursday, Ministers will discuss NATO's deterrence and defence posture in response to instability in the Middle East and Africa and a more assertive Russia. Ministers will review progress on adapting NATO's Command Structure. With more than 1,200 additional personnel and two new commands, the adapted Command Structure "will ensure we can have the right forces in the right place at the right time", said the Secretary General. The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty "is in danger", said Mr. Stoltenberg, adding that "Allies agree that Russia is in violation of the Treaty". He urged Russia to address these concerns "in a substantial and transparent way". In this last session, Allied ministers will also meet with the High Representative / Vice President Federica Mogherini and with partners from Finland and Sweden to address NATO-EU cooperation in areas such as countering hybrid and cyber threats, and improving military mobility. NATO's Exercise Trident Juncture, taking place in Norway later this month, will "test the ability to move forces quickly", he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address F-35B Jets Join Forces with British Aircraft Carrier to Make History Navy News Service Story Number: NNS181002-04 Release Date: 10/2/2018 10:24:00 AM From HMS Queen Elizabeth Public Affairs ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- This week the first F-35 Lightning fighter jets landed on the deck of the United Kingdom's new aircraft carrier making history and marking the beginning of more than half-a-century of 'Carrier Strike' operations. Royal Navy Cmdr. Nathan Gray and Royal Air Force Sq. Ldr. Andy Edgell, both test pilots at the F-35 Integrated Test Force at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Md., were the first pilots to land the stealth F-35 Lightning fighter jets on board the carrier, demonstrating the formidable force HMS Queen Elizabeth and her fleet of jets will be. The first landings and take-offs from HMS Queen Elizabeth are the culmination of a British endeavor lasting more than a decade to bring an aircraft carrier back to the UK's arsenal. Able to embark up to 24 of the supersonic jets, the Queen Elizabeth Class carrier provides the Royal Navy with a capability possessed by few others. U.K. Defense Secretary Gavin Williamson said: "The largest warship in British history is joining forces with the most advanced fighter jets on the planet. This marks a rebirth of our power to strike decisively from the seas anywhere in the world. "The historic first landing on the deck of HMS Queen Elizabeth is a monumental moment in our country's proud military history. It is also a statement of Britain's determination to promote peace and prevent war." The landings mark the start of the first of two First of Class Flight Trials (Fixed Wing) phases, held back-to-back this fall, where the ITF team plans to perform a variety of flight maneuvers and deck operations to develop the F-35B operating envelope for QEC carriers. They will evaluate jet performance on over 200 test points during different weather and sea conditions as well as the aircraft's integration with the ship. A third FOCFT (FW) phase followed by operational testing is scheduled for 2019. The return of 'Carrier Strike' to the UK comes eight years after a fighter jet last landed on a British carrier. Commanding Officer, Royal Navy Capt. Jerry Kyd, who was also the captain of HMS Ark Royal when the last Harrier took off from a carrier, said: "I am quite emotional to be here in HMS Queen Elizabeth seeing the return of fixed wing aviation, having been the captain of the aircraft carrier which launched the last Harrier at sea nearly eight years ago. "The regeneration of big deck carriers able to operate globally, as we are proving here on this deployment, is a major step forward for the United Kingdom's defense and our ability to match the increasing pace of our adversaries. The first touch-downs of these impressive stealth jets shows how the United Kingdom will continue to be world leaders at sea for generations to come." Commander UK Carrier Strike Group, Cdr. Andrew Betton added: "The Queen Elizabeth Class carriers have been specifically designed and built to operate the F-35 Lightning, offering an immensely flexible and potent combination to deliver military effect around the world. Conducting these trials is a critical and exciting step on this journey and I applaud the many thousands of civilian and military personnel who have played a part in bringing the strategic ambition to reality." While the HMS Queen Elizabeth Class carriers will be able to project British military power across the globe for the next half-century, they can also provide humanitarian relief, deepen defense relationships with key allies and provide critical support to our forces as they are deployed across the world. In recent operations, US aircraft carriers like the USS George HW Bush and USS Harry S. Truman have played a central role in the Gulf and the Mediterranean, conducting strikes against Daesh in Iraq and Syria. This week's historic flight trials come more than 100 years after the UK's HMS Argus became the world's first carrier capable of safely launching and recovering naval aircraft. The ship will go on to continue her program off the US east coast. The flight trials are expected to take around 11 weeks, during which time the ship is also expected to call into New York. HMS Queen Elizabeth remains set to be deployed on global operations from 2021. Britain now has sixteen of a planned 138 F-35 Lightning jets as part of its world-leading fleet of military aircraft. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Adm. Foggo Highlights Challenges and Efforts in Europe and Africa Navy News Service Story Number: NNS181002-05 Release Date: 10/2/2018 10:46:00 AM From U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- In the second edition of the podcast "On the Horizon: Navigating the European and African Theaters," Adm. James G. Foggo III, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (CNE-CNA) and commander, Allied Joint Force Command Naples, Italy, discusses Dynamic Force Employment, NATO's largest exercise, and recent efforts to enhance security and stability throughout Europe and Africa. Following the initial podcast, this episode focuses on Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group's (CSG) return to Europe, how the U.S. Navy and NATO are addressing challenges in Europe, and the upcoming NATO exercise, Trident Juncture 2018. He also discusses the 23rd International Seapower Symposium and the Black Sea Conference. Harry S. Truman CSG Returns to Europe In the opening segment, Foggo started the discussion emphasizing the security situation in which our naval forces are operating within saying that, "From our perspective, the security environment has changed dramatically over the last few years." As the security environment changes, the U.S. Navy is also adjusting to the changing environment. As the Navy addresses these changes, one thing remains the same, presence. "It's really our presence that reassures our allies and partners that we're here for them, and that we'll be here when and where it really matters." During the segment, Foggo pointed out maritime forces are able to adapt and project power. "As security situations change, our naval forces are much better postured to deal with and defend and maintain stability and security. And if necessary, defeat any threat." Harry S. Truman CSG is one of the naval forces that Foggo mentioned as the carrier returned to the European theater. The strike group returned Sept. 16, 2018. "A great example, the Harry S. Truman Strike Group's return to the European theater. I couldn't be happier about that," said Foggo. "The aircraft carrier and its air wing, a guided missile cruiser and guided missile destroyers, are operating in the North Atlantic. It really showcases the flexibility of the United States Navy to operate where and when it needs to be in support of our allies and partners in the theater, as well as in support of our United States national security interests." Addressing Challenges Throughout Europe and Beyond Foggo explained how the U.S. Navy and NATO are addressing regional challenges stemming from a more aggressive Russian military, and how exercises are meant to improve interoperability between our allies. "Russia has renewed its capabilities in the North Atlantic and the Arctic in places not seen since the Cold War" said Foggo. "And I remain concerned about the potential for miscalculation." However, he is confident that NATO and the U.S. Navy is up to the task. "The United States and NATO forces are pretty capable and postured force, ready to deter if necessary, and defeat any aggression that we face. The NATO alliance's purpose is to do just that. To deter first, and defend and defeat if necessary, second." Foggo illustrated what it would look like when answering the call to an Article 5 being invoked by NATO. Article 5 is "to assist our allies in the restoration of sovereignty through defense and deterrence. NATO's actions have been and will be defensive, transparent and proportionate to the threat," said Foggo. Exercise Trident Juncture 2018 This segued into the upcoming exercise Trident Juncture 2018, which is NATO's largest exercise in two decades with more than 30 ally and partner nations participating. "Trident Juncture 18 is going to test our ability to plan and conduct a major collective defense operation. Thirty allies and partner nations providing 40,000 troops, and all the equipment that goes along with that. There is 70 ships, 120 aircraft, 10,000 vehicles involved in this," said Foggo. "And those numbers are growing every day." Trident Juncture is designed to ensure that NATO forces and partners are trained, able to operate together, and ready to respond to any threat from any direction. NATO allies and partners routinely conduct exercises to test tactics and procedures, develop best practices and identify areas for improvement. "Trident Juncture 18 is a valuable platform for us to work with partners and exchange best practices and work together as an alliance to address crises." said Foggo. "Collective defense has become a more prominent feature of NATO exercises due to the changes in the security landscape, particularly with regard to the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia." This year's exercise will be hosted by Norway and will focus on answering the call for help by a NATO ally during a simulated Article 5 scenario. In addition the exercise will include the use of Swedish and Finnish participation and airspace. Security, Order and Prosperity In the next segment of the podcast, Foggo talked about the International Seapower Symposium. "The conference brought together more than 100 nations and 95 heads of service. We discussed maritime strategy, ways to innovate, the best use of limited resources, amongst a host of other topics," said Foggo. "While there I was able to meet one on one with 25 different bilateral heads of services from some of the countries in Europe and many of the countries in Africa." Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson hosted the event in Newport, Rhode Island, from Sept. 19-21. The theme of the symposium was 'Security, Order and Prosperity.' The biannual conference provides naval leaders the chance to exchange experiences, lessons learned and ideas. "The event is really special because the symposium is a rare opportunity to have a gathering of these naval leaders, and this year the CNO programmed in a number of breaks to give us a chance to talk to our counterparts in other nations. I took full advantage of that," he said. We are Stronger Together In the final segment, the topic was the Black Sea Conference held in Naples, where Black Sea allies and partner nations came together to discuss challenges and solutions in creating a stable and secure region in the Black Sea. Foggo provided context about the conference. "Adm. Johnson used to do these here in Naples in 2003-2004, bringing together leadership and diplomats to have a very heavy discussion about security matters, regionally focused throughout the theater." Senior leaders from Bulgaria, Georgia, Romania, Turkey, Ukraine and the United States discussed shared challenges and reinvigorated their mutual commitment in the region. "The main purpose was to bring leadership together to discuss all the challenges that we face and how we can cooperate better together and identify opportunities that lead to a more stable and secure region in the Black Sea," said Foggo. Foggo ended the segment by saying, "We are stronger together. And I think the Black Sea Symposium demonstrated that we can do this." "On the Horizon: Navigating the European and African Theaters" is available on Sound Cloud, iTunes, Sticker.com and Spreaker.com. U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NSWC Philadelphia MACHALT Program Marks 35 Years of Efficient Upgrades to Ships Navy News Service Story Number: NNS181002-02 Release Date: 10/2/2018 9:33:00 AM By Keegan Rammel & Matt Leonard, NSWCPD Public Affairs PHILADELPHIA (NNS) -- In 2018, Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia Division (NSWCPD) Machinery Alterations (MACHALT) program marks 35 years of efficient ship upgrade installations. The process for making an alteration to a U.S. Navy ship often requires a long timeline. The MACHALT program was developed to streamline the process for implementing Hull Mechanical and Electrical (HM&E) equipment alterations. The predecessor of NSWCPD, Naval Ship Systems Engineering Station, developed the MACHALT program in 1983. The program's purpose is to increase the expediency of performing relatively minor HM&E changes. The changes may involve retooling, upgrading, or performing alterations equivalent to a repair. The efficient alterations save the Navy from potential major repair costs. Brett Franks, MACHALT program manager, has been with the team for 19 years. Franks compares the success of the program to the sayingefficiency is doing things right, but effectiveness is doing the right things. "MACHALT has been successful because we crafted it to always be efficient and effective," said Franks. Before MACHALT, the Ship Alteration, or SHIPALT program was required for implementing HM&E changes. The SHIPALT program typically requires more documentation and a longer approvals process. While SHIPALTs are still necessary for performing permanent changes to ship configurations, MACHALT reduces both the cycle time for HM&E alterations, as well as the overall number of SHIPALTs required by the fleet. To implement a change, MACHALT designs and supplies a specialized kit to a ship. The kit includes everything necessary for the change; all hardware, checkout materials and procedures, installation instructions, instruments list, and all of the logistics and documentation support. Each kit allows for one alteration to be made. For example, if the Navy needed to upgrade 80 doors on a ship, then 80 kits would be required. Since its inception, the MACHALT team has been responsible for the creation and installation of more than 50,000 kits, impacting more than a thousand ships and craft. Most alterations have focused on safety and maintenance. The program allows for small changes to be made at the pier, as well as while the ship is underway. One example of a machinery alteration upgrade is MACHALT project number 559. This alteration responded to general ship air conditioning refrigerant leaks. Refrigerant is a colorless, odorless, but toxic gas that can leak out of seals located throughout a ship. The air conditioning and refrigeration systems were losing an estimated 262,200 pounds of refrigerant a year across the fleet. This represents an annual cost of approximately $2.6 million. Even more importantly, the leaks could also create unsafe working conditions for Sailors. "The challenge was the scope of the alteration, because it really was about every ship in the Navy," Franks explained. The alteration replaced the Refrigerant Leak Monitors (RLM) with more reliable and sensitive units. The old RLMs were unreliable and might not alert Sailors that leaks were occurring. The new RLMs provide early leak detection at the source. The monitors also provided greater alarm sensitivity and alarm tracking. This allowed for a more complete coverage of air conditioning and refrigeration plants across the ships, which notified Sailors of a problem sooner. Additionally, the new RLMs are much easier to maintain. During the period of 2004 to 2011 every active ship in the fleet received the alteration. The ships were upgraded as efficiently as possible, with multiple ships scheduled for work at the same pier. This reduced travel costs for NSWCPD employees and the contractors performing the alterations. "[The MACHALT engineers have been described as] waterfront ninjas, slip in and get the job done before anyone knows what happened. They get alts knocked out while the ships are pier side," Franks explained. Over the past 35 years, the program has made efficiency and commonality its priorities. The MACHALT team strives to make every alteration across the fleet the same; using identical parts, even across ship classes wherever possible. This commonality helps cut down training and install time as well. "The process is the same," said David Elia, Technology Deployment branch head. "you aren't reinventing the wheel every time." NSWCPD provides the Navy's primary technical expertise for naval machinery research and development and in-service engineering, as well as machinery cybersecurity and lifecycle engineering. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO to conduct biggest military exercises since Cold War in Norway Iran Press TV Tue Oct 2, 2018 07:23PM NATO has planned to conduct its biggest military exercise since the Cold War, drawing as much as 45,000 troops in Norway, Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg says. Speaking at the NATO headquarters in Brussels on Tuesday, the secretary general said in a statement that the maneuver seeks to practice defense operations against a "fictional" enemy, adding that "all members of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, including Russia, have been invited to send observers." The war games, named Trident Juncture 18, will assemble troops from 31 NATO allies and partners along with 50 aircraft, 70 vessels and around 10,000 land vehicles in a two month-long exercise focused primarily in central and eastern Norway, aiming to train "troops of the NATO Response Force " and improve joint-force cooperation, according to a Norwegian Armed Forces statement. Shortly before Stoltenberg's remarks, United States Defense Secretary Jim Mattis vowed "iron-clad" commitment to the transatlantic alliance, adding that "every NATO ally is awake today to the reality of Russia's malicious behavior. Every ally has now increased defense spending." The massive military maneuvers come amid rising tensions between the West and Russia over Moscow's alleged interference in Ukraine and a military build-up in the Arctic. Russia denies the allegation. NATO has subsequently increased activity around Russia in the past four years, deploying troops in Eastern Europe and in the Baltic states. Contrarily, Moscow has expressed its own concerns over an ever-growing military build-up on NATO's northern flank, reacting angrily to Oslo's call for Washington to double the number of US Marines in the country. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemeni forces shoot down Saudi reconnaissance drone in Najran Iran Press TV Tue Oct 2, 2018 05:18PM Yemeni army forces, supported by allied fighters from Popular Committees, have intercepted and targeted a Saudi unmanned aerial vehicle as it was flying in the skies over the kingdom's southwestern border region of Najran. An unnamed Yemen military source said Yemeni air defense forces and their allies shot down the drone as it was on a reconnaissance mission near al-Khazra border crossing on Tuesday evening, the Houthi Ansarullah movement said in a statement. Separately, a barrage of Saudi missiles and artillery rounds rained down on residential areas in the Monabbih district of Yemen's northwestern province of Sa'ada. There were no immediate reports about possible casualties and the extent of damage caused. Moreover, scores of Saudi-sponsored militiamen loyal to Yemen's former president Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi were killed when Yemeni soldiers and their allies targeted their gatherings south of Kilo 16 district in the western Yemeni province of Hudaydah. Earlier on Tuesday, Yemeni troopers and Popular Committees fighters fired a domestically-developed Zelzal-2 (Earthquake-2) ballistic missile and several mortar shells at the positions of Saudi mercenaries in the Boqa' desert of Jizan, leaving several militiamen dead and injured. Saudi Arabia and a number of its regional allies launched a devastating military campaign against Yemen in March 2015, with the aim of bringing the government of Hadi back to power and crushing the country's popular Ansarullah movement. Some 15,000 Yemenis have been killed and thousands more injured since the onset of the Saudi-led aggression. More than 2,200 others have died of cholera, and the crisis has triggered what the United Nations has described as the world's worst humanitarian disaster. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Blast hits election rally in Afghanistan, kills 13 Iran Press TV Tue Oct 2, 2018 11:08AM A bomb attack has hit an election campaign rally in eastern Afghanistan, killing at least 13 people and wounding many more. Nangarhar provincial governor's spokesman Ataullah Khogyani said an assailant blew himself up at the rally of parliamentary candidate Abdul Nasir Mohmmand in Nangarhar Province on Tuesday. He added that at least 13 bodies were taken to hospitals while more than 30 people were injured. Other officials said the death toll was expected to rise. Campaigning for the October 20 legislative elections began on Friday, and security officials have warned of the danger of militant attacks during the campaigning season. The polls were originally set to be held in 2015 following presidential elections the previous year but were repeatedly pushed back due to security fears and logistical problems. Candidates will contest the 249 seats in the National Assembly for five-year terms. Regional elections will also be held in districts across Afghanistan. "Elders were speaking at the meeting when there was suddenly a huge blast," said Sayed Humayoun, who was attending the meeting in Kama district, outside the provincial capital, Jalalabad. "I was knocked unconscious, but when I opened my eyes, there were bodies scattered all around the blast area," he added, saying that he could see dozens of dead and wounded people on the ground. Sohrab Qaderi, a member of the provincial council, said nearly 250 people were attending the rally. He also put the death toll at 30. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Both the Taliban and Daesh terrorist groups are present in Afghanistan. The Taliban has warned Afghan people against taking part in the elections. Dozens of people have already been killed in militant attacks on voter registration centers. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China condemns US 'freedom of navigation' patrols Iran Press TV Tue Oct 2, 2018 09:30AM China has condemned the recent sailing of a US warship near territory that it claims in the South China Sea, insisting that it is "resolutely opposed" to what Washington calls "freedom of navigation" patrols. "China's military is resolutely opposed to this," the Defense Ministry said on Tuesday, referring to the so-called freedom of navigation patrols and the latest such maneuver by the US near the Spratly Islands. The Ministry said Chinese armed forces would continue to take all the necessary measures to protect China's sovereignty and security. "The US side repeatedly sends military ships without permission into seas close to South China Seas islands, seriously threatening China's sovereignty and security, seriously damaging Sino-US military ties, and seriously harming regional peace and stability," the ministry said. The development came after an unnamed US official said the USS Decatur guided-missile destroyer had sailed within 12 nautical miles of Gaven and Johnson Reefs in the Spratly Islands on Sunday. The provocative move by the US military was its latest effort to challenge what Washington regards as Beijing's attempt to limit freedom of navigation in the strategic waters. The Chinese Defense Ministry also announced that it had dispatched a naval vessel to warn the American warship to leave the area. It further emphasized that Beijing maintained irrefutable sovereignty over the South China Sea islands and the waters around them. China's Foreign Ministry issued its own statement, strongly warning the US to halt such "provocative" moves and to "immediately correct its mistakes." The latest tensions between China and the US come amid deteriorating military ties between the two global powers and shortly after Beijing expressed anger at Washington's latest sanctions on China's military for the purchase of Russian military hardware as well as the surging of US support for self-ruled Taiwan, which China regards as part of its territory. Meanwhile, Reuters said in a report that China had cancelled a security meeting with US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, planned for later in October. While Beijing has not yet reacted to the report, the Defense Ministry had hinted last week that the planned visit might not materialize. The world's two-largest economies are also locked in a trade war, initiated by the US. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Saudi Arabia admits 'certain mistakes' in strikes on Yemen Iran Press TV Tue Oct 2, 2018 08:09AM Under increasing pressure from international bodies and rights groups, Saudi Arabia has admitted committing "certain mistakes" in conducting military strikes on Yemen, where the Saudi-led coalition strikes have killed and maimed civilians, including many children. The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child denounced the death of children in Saudi airstrikes on Yemen as it examined the Saudi record on compliance with a treaty protocol on children in armed conflict on Monday. "This has been going on a number of years. But still, there is no information that any perpetrators or people responsible for these kinds of actions have been prosecuted or sanctioned or dealt with in any way," said Clarence Nelson, the panel's vice-chair. Osaiker Alotaibi of the Saudi Defense Ministry told the panel of 18 independent experts that coalition investigations had uncovered "the existence of certain unintentional mistakes in a number of these operations." "The task force recommended that perpetrators should be held to account and victims should enjoy redress," he added. 'You say it's an accident' Riyadh on Monday claimed it was working to correct mistaken targeting, but UN rights experts remained skeptical. Renate Winter, the panel's chairwoman, wondered why schools and hospitals had been targeted repeatedly. "You say it's an accident. How many such accidents can you bear and how many such accidents can people in the country (Yemen) bear?" She also referred to an August airstrike on a school bus in Yemen's Sa'ada Province, which killed at least 40 children and 11 adults. Riyadh has even said that the bus was a "legitimate target." Saudi Arabia and a number of its regional allies launched a deadly military campaign against Yemen in March 2015, with the aim of bringing the government of Yemen's former president, Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi, back to power. The aggression has killed some 15,000 people and injured thousands. More than 2,200 others have died of cholera and the crisis has triggered what the United Nations has described as the world's worst humanitarian disaster. Late last month, the UN Human Rights Council renewed a probe of war crimes in Yemen, despite attempts by Saudi Arabia and its allies to hinder that investigation. 'Suspected cholera cases triple in Yemen's Hudaydah' In related news, an international non-governmental organization, Save the Children, said on Tuesday that the suspected cholera cases have nearly tripled in Yemen's Hudaydah since the start of a Saudi-led offensive on the port in June. "Health facilities supported by Save the Children across (Hudaydah) governorate recorded a 170 percent increase in the number of suspected cholera cases, from 497 in June to 1,342 in August," a report by the London-based NGO said. In late July, "airstrikes resulted in the damage of a sanitation facility and water station that supplies Hudaydah with most of its water," the report added. "After this incident, suspected cholera cases almost doubled," between July and August, in health centers supported by the NGO, it said. Backed by Saudi-led airstrikes, Emirati forces and militants loyal to the former Yemeni government launched the assault on Hudaydah on June 13 despite warnings that it would worsen the impoverished nation's humanitarian crisis. According to the UN and the World Health Organization, Yemen faces a third cholera epidemic as autumn rains have increased the risk of infection, as a result of the Saudi-led war. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address At Least 13 Dead, Dozens Injured In Apparent Suicide Attack At Afghan Campaign Rally RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan October 02, 2018 Officials say at least 13 people are dead and dozens more injured in a suicide attack carried out at an election-campaign rally in eastern Afghanistan. Najibullah Kamawal, head of Nangarhar province's health department, told RFE/RL that 13 people were confirmed to have died in the October 2 attack, while at least 40 others are reported injured. The extremist group Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the bombing via its Amaq news agency. Both the Taliban and fighters with the Afghan affiliate of the IS group are active in the province. Attaullah Khoyani, a spokesman for the governor of Nangarhar province, said the attacker targeted a campaign rally held by Nasir Momand, a parliamentary candidate in the Kama district. "Most of the people killed or wounded are elders who had gathered for the campaign rally," Khoyani said. Momand is running as an independent candidate in Afghanistan's parliamentary elections, which are scheduled for October 20. It is unclear whether voting will be held in areas controlled by militants. Campaigning began on September 28 for the elections, in which 2,565 candidates are vying for seats in the 249-member lower house of parliament. Five candidates were killed in separate attacks before the campaigning officially started, two in Kabul and one each in Nangarhar, southern Kandahar, and northern Parwan province. Two candidates have been abducted and their fates remain unknown, while three others have been wounded in attacks, according to electoral officials. Security forces killed three bodyguards of an independent candidate during a raid on a house near his home in the eastern Kunar province on September 30. The elections are only for the lower parliament house. The upper chamber consists of a mixture of lawmakers chosen from local councils and those appointed by president Ashraf Ghani, as well as members elected in district ballots. With reporting by AP and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/afghanistan-suicide-attack- campaign-rally-dead-injured/29521130.html Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Threatens to Destroy Russian Warheads if Necessary - Envoy to NATO Sputnik News 16:38 02.10.2018(updated 20:13 02.10.2018) According to US Permanent Representative to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison, Russia has to halt its development of new 9M729 nuclear-capable missiles. "It is time now for Russia to come to the table and stop the violations," Hutchison told reporters in Brussels, where US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis will later meet his NATO counterparts. She also noted that the US has no intentions of violating the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF), adding, however, that it could occur because of Russia. "There will come a point in the future in which America will determine that it has to move forward with a development phase that is not allowed by the treaty right now," Hutchison said. Earlier in the day, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg urged Russia to be more transparent and to explain its alleged breaches of the INF Treaty. Tensions and Accusations Addressing the NATO stance on the INF, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova warned about the perils of "aggressive rhetoric." "It seems people who make such statements do not realize the degree of their responsibility and the danger of aggressive rhetoric. Who authorized the lady to make such statements? The American people? Do ordinary people in the United States know that the so-called diplomats paid out of their pocket behave aggressively and destructively?" Zakharova told reporters. The 1987 INF Treaty prohibits the development, deployment, and testing of ground-launched ballistic or cruise missiles with ranges between 300 and 3,400 miles. Moscow and Washington have repeatedly accused each other of violating the treaty. According to the US, the new Russian 9M729 missile systems violate the conditions of the pact, as they give Russia the possibility of launching a nuclear strike in Europe with little or no notice. Russia's Foreign Ministry has said that the 9M729 missiles correspond to Russia's obligations under the INF Treaty and have not been upgraded and tested for the prohibited ranges. Moscow also noted that Washington had never provided any evidence that Russia had violated the agreement because such proof does not exist. Earlier in July, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu claimed that the United States is violating the treaty by deploying in Europe missile defense systems with launchers, which might be used for firing Tomahawk cruise missiles. New Prospects for Macedonia in NATO Hutchison also commented on the recent referendum in Macedonia, which settled a decades-long conflict with Greece, allowing Skopje to enter NATO. "We are very pleased that they got over a 90 percent vote in the referendum that they had, and we now look to the people of Macedonia and the Parliament to take the next step and we hope to welcome Macedonia, Northern Macedonia, as a new member of our alliance in the near future," the US envoy said. Earlier on Tuesday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that accession talks have already started and negotiations to make Macedonia part of NATO could be completed by January 2019. According to the Sunday referendum, 91.46% of voters chose to rename the country, while 5.65% voted against the agreement with Greece. However, the turnout amounted to just 36.91%, meaning that the referendum failed to secure the 50% turnout needed to be valid. Despite this, the country's prime minister, Zoran Zaev, supported the results and pledged to proceed with ratifying the agreement. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Watershed' Moment as Norway Allows Doubling of US Military Presence Sputnik News 10:28 02.10.2018 Starting from Monday, 700 hundred US soldiers will be stationed in northern Norway for five years to come. While inevitably increasing tensions between Oslo and Moscow, this step also violates Norway's basic policy, several parties argue. A total of 350 American soldiers have arrived at Setermoen, Norway, increasing the number of US soldiers on rotation-based practice in Norway to 700, national broadcaster NRK reported. While the initial Norwegian-US agreement allowed 350 US Navy soldiers to train in the coming years, the Norwegian government entered this past summer entered into a new agreement allowing the US to double the number. Thus, the US soldiers will be stationed for the next five years in Vrnes, Trndelag County and Setermoen in Troms County. While the stated purpose of the extension is to increase interconnection between Norwegian soldiers and theirits US counterpartsallies, this step has been met with resistance. Norwegian Maritime Academy researcher Stale Ulriksen has argued that the increased US presence will be perceived negatively by Russia. Ulriksen also stressed that Norway's defense has been made entirely dependent on allies. "Once the American presence is further increased, and the US forces are getting more advanced weapons, [the Russians] will probably respond," he warned. "Clearly, that there is a limit to how much military activity one can allow in northern Norway before the Russians feel seriously threatened. It may not be so wise of Norway to do things that challenge the strategic capacity of Russia," Ulriksen said. The increased US presence was also met with criticism by among Norwegian politicians. The Socialist Left party (SV) has argued that Norway would benefit from having a strong Norwegian military presence in the north, not from moving US soldiers northward. "This is a watershed in Norwegian security and defense policy, and we have always warned against this development," SV parliamentary spokesman Torgeir Knag Fylkesnes said. According to the 1949 Base Declaration, no foreign forces will be admitted on Norwegian soil in peacetime. At present, the Socialist Left party, the Center party and the Reds all fear that the decades-old foundations of the Norwegian defense policy isare being shattered. "This is a direct breach of the base policy. This makes Norway vulnerable, and northern Norway, the closest neighbor to Russia, is facing a very difficult situation. It's a wrong and misjudged way of thinking about the security policy," Fylkesnes argued. "This goes far beyond practice. This is a permanent presence of US soldiers farther north than ever before," he added. By contrast, the Norwegian Armed Forces don't see any problem with the extended US presence. "It gives us an opportunity to become better as Norwegian forces, but also as NATO forces. It is a clear confirmation that Norwegian security is based on our NATO membership," Brigadier Lars Sivert Lervik ventured. The Russian Embassy has slammed Oslo's decision, arguing it makesde Norway unpredictable, increasesd tensions, provokesd an arms race and could lead led to a general destabilization of the situation in Europe. UK Defense Secretary Minister Gavin Williamson recently added fuel to the fire by proposing a rotary force of 800 British troops in northern Norway in a bid to "counter Russia's militarization." Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Deadly Bombing Rocks Afghan Election Rally By Ayaz Gul October 02, 2018 A suicide bomb blast has ripped through an election-related gathering in eastern Afghanistan, killing at least 14 people and wounding 42 others. The deadly blast in Kama district in Nangarhar province went off inside the campaign office of a candidate for the October 20 parliamentary elections. The fate of the candidate, identified as Nasir Mohmand, was not known immediately. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the bombing, saying it killed 35 people and wounded 55 others. Provincial government spokesman, Attaullah Khogyani, told VOA the casualties were expected to rise. The Taliban has denounced the elections, though IS has taken responsibility for most of the recent bombings and other attacks against civilians in Nangarhar. Afghans are set to head to the polls October 20 to cast ballots in elections for the lower house of parliament, or Wolesi Jirga, and district councils amid prevailing security concerns. The polls are being held after a delay of more than three years. "I am outraged by attacks deliberately targeting civilians seeking to exercise their basic right to participate in elections," said UNAMA chief Tadamichi Yamamoto. "This violence, including today's reprehensible attack in Nangarhar, is an assault on the constitutional rights of the people of Afghanistan," he added. Tuesday's violence comes as an Afghan watchdog has blamed counterinsurgency air-and-ground operations by pro-government forces for causing most of the 262 civilian deaths across the country in September. Another 524 people were wounded in war-related violence and women as well as children were among the 785 casualties, according to the non-governmental Civilian Protection Advocacy Group (CPAG). Separately, officials told VOA on Tuesday that the Afghan military during a counter-Taliban operations mistakenly bombed one of its own bases in the southern Helmand province. The incident in the Nad Ali district killed six Afghan soldiers and wounded eight others. The provincial police said an investigation was underway into the deadly attack. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taliban Gain Stronghold in District Near Kabul By Ayesha Tanzeem October 02, 2018 The young man and three older men agreed to talk under the condition that neither their names, nor pictures would be used, as any identifying markers could put their lives at risk. In this area near Kabul, the Taliban have gained a stronghold. The younger man said the Taliban come regularly to this village to shop. The village is Khak-e-Jabbar, a district of Kabul province, less than an hour's drive from Afghanistan's capital. It has dozens of small villages, with populations ranging from 100 to several hundred people each. For years the Taliban had tried to get a foothold in this area. This year, they appear to have succeeded. Some blamed it on the cease-fire between the government forces and the Taliban in June, the first of its kind in 17 years of conflict, that allowed Taliban fighters to freely roam the area. According to the U.S. military newspaper Stars and Stripes, the Afghan Defense Ministry acknowledged in July that "Khak-e-Jabar was the only area where the recent cease-fire exacerbated the security situation." A local TV channel, Tolonews, quoted Khak-e-Jabar Police Chief Mohammad Edris Yadgari in August as saying the number of Taliban had increased four-fold since the cease-fire. In a different story, Tolo quoted residents as saying the Taliban had gained influence in dozens of villages. Some cooperation with Taliban The three older men, veterans of the first Afghan jihad against the Soviets, thought the cease-fire had nothing to do with it. The situation, they said, had been deteriorating since the start of the Afghan New Year in March. They spoke in Pashto to the younger man, who translated their words in English. "In this area, no one cooperated with the Taliban before. But now, some people have started helping them and giving them information," one said. They said the Taliban had started dispensing justice in some Khak-e-Jabbar villages through their mobile courts. They said every night, cell phone service in the area was turned off for about 12 hours. They thought the cell phone companies were forced to limit the service under threats from the Taliban. When one company, MTN, continued providing service in the area after 6:00 pm a few months ago, they said the Taliban blew up its tower. MTN has not replied to VOA's request for comment. Sayed Sulaiman, the civilian chief of the district administration, acknowledged the cell service disruption, but attributed it to maintenance work. Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said they order cell service to be shut down in the evenings because Americans allegedly monitor phone calls and their raids or strikes "lead to civilian casualties." "The use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in attacks by Anti-Government Elements remained the leading cause of civilian casualties," according to a report issued by the U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) in July this year. Aminullah Habibi, a Kabul-based analyst who has advised NATO, said the suspension was to allow Taliban militants freedom of movement. "They would probably like to prevent the locals from letting the government know that they are coming or going or who are they," he said. "It's not restricted to this area, in many areas where they have control they try to impose those types of restrictions." Taliban demands Recently, residents say, the Taliban started occasionally coming to the villages and demanding residents provide them dinner. If it was a big group of militants, they would divide into smaller groups and go to multiple houses. In August, on Eid al Adha, a Muslim holy festival, after the cell signals dropped out in the evening, the Taliban members came to the mosque of Malang, gathered locals, and preached to them. "During the day they can't come to our area since we are so close to the police compound," said the younger man, "but at night people get up several times to check on things." His relatives sleep with their guns on the ready. The Taliban have also delivered an ultimatum, everyone in the area who worked for the government, and many did, had to quit their jobs within 18 months. It was not a bluff. A 70-year-old man, Qumandan Nazar from Chakri village, who worked with the district police, was killed on his way to work. Taliban spokesman Mujahid said the directive for people to leave government jobs was not just for Khak-e-Jabbar, it was countrywide. "We ask that everyone should leave jobs that serve the Afghan government that is a slave to Americans," he said. Many people were considering options, including moving to the city. Many were relying on relatives in Kabul to help them get jobs as security guards, or drivers, or small shopkeepers. Islamic Emirates ID cards Locals said people who left their jobs after the Taliban ultimatum, but stayed in the area had been issued Islamic Emirates ID cards. That is the name Taliban use to describe their self-styled government. Card holders could move about freely in Taliban areas. However, no one had a picture of that card. "People who have them hide it," they said. "No one wants to show they have a Taliban ID." Mujahid said the Taliban help provide security to those who leave their government jobs. This summer, when the government needed engineers to survey the area for a dam in the Rojan valley, it sought help from the local elders, who in turn contacted the Taliban. Eventually, the survey was carried out under Taliban security. District chief Sulaiman denied the government sought Taliban help for the project, "We used local elders' help and their protection." The three old men, though, said the Taliban were physically present during the study. Elders in Afghanistan often play a key role in negotiations between the government and militant groups. In several incidents, elders have played a role in getting Afghan hostages released from the Taliban. Government performance questioned Sulaiman said while the Taliban presence in the area had been an issue this year, it was more or less under control. "Some government officials visited the area today," he said, "and there was no issue." A local man contacted by phone said the Taliban movement had decreased in the past few weeks because of the weather, and not because of any government action. Most of the locals say they were impartial between the government or the Taliban, albeit out of fear. "We have informers from both sides in our midst," said one resident. Habibi said while it raised questions on the performance of the government that it was allowing the Taliban to gain a foothold in the area, in the end it was a "reflection of the general security situation in the country." "I don't think it is significant enough to threaten the city," he said. Many Afghan cities, like Ghazni, he pointed out, had a Taliban presence around it. In August, a Taliban offensive against Ghazni, was repulsed after several days of fighting. The Afghan Interior Ministry has not replied to requests for comments for this story. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pentagon Detects Substance in 2 Pieces of Mail, Suspects It is Poison Ricin Sputnik News 20:42 02.10.2018(updated 20:45 02.10.2018) WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The US Department of Defense said on Tuesday that it has detected a suspicious substance in two mail packages and it suspects the substance is ricin, a poison found in castor beans. "On Monday, the Pentagon Force Protection Agency detected a suspicious substance during mail screening at the Pentagon's remote mail screening facility. The envelopes were taken by the FBI this morning for further analysis," Director of Defense Press Operations Col. Rob Manning said. Defense Department spokesperson Chris Sherwood was quoted by the Military Times as saying the substance was suspected to be ricin. Sherwood explained the mail was addressed to an individual who works in the Defense Department, but he did not name the person. US media reported that the two pieces of mail were addressed to Defense Secretary James Mattis and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson. Manning said the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the incident. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ricin Suspected in Letters Sent to Trump, Pentagon By Carla Babb October 02, 2018 An envelope addressed to President Donald Trump containing a substance thought to be the toxin ricin appears to be connect to two letters intercepted at the Pentagon. "The Secret Service can confirm receipt of a suspicious envelope addressed to the President on Oct. 1, 2018," the Secret Service said in a statement. "The envelope was not received at the White House, nor did it ever enter the White House. " The letters sent to the Pentagon one addressed to Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis and the other to Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson have tested positive for ricin, defense officials told VOA Tuesday. The envelopes were taken by the FBI Tuesday for further testing, according to Pentagon spokesman Army Col. Rob Manning. The two letters arrived Monday at the Defense Department's mail distribution center just outside the Pentagon. The Pentagon Force Protection Agency detected the substance during mail screening, so the letters never entered the Pentagon building, officials said. Ricin is a naturally occurring toxin found in castor beans. If inhaled, ingested or injected in a refined form, ricin can kill a person within 48 hours of exposure. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is no antidote for Ricin. "All USPS (United States Postal Service) mail received at the Pentagon mail screening facility (Monday) is currently under quarantine and poses no threat to Pentagon personnel," according to Manning. The Defense Department's mail screening facility has about 15 employees who screen every envelope and parcel mailed to the Pentagon. All of those employees wear special suits to protect them from hazardous materials. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Report: African Countries Struggle to Contain Terror Groups By Ibrahim Ahmed October 02, 2018 Amid a decline in terror incidents worldwide in 2017, African countries struggled to prevent the expansion of terror groups in parts of the continent, according to a U.S. State Department report on terrorism. "African countries expanded their efforts to develop regional counterterrorism solutions while they struggled to contain the expansion of terrorist groups, affiliates, and aspirants involved in attacks or other activities in 2017," according to the report, released last week. Experts offer different explanations as to why terror groups have been able to expand in the continent. Jacob Zenn, a terrorism expert with the Washington-based Jamestown Foundation, said he believes that when it comes to ideology and development, the former should be given more attention. "When it comes to extremism, intolerant religious teachings need to be countered. If not, jihadists would exploit intolerance and encourage people to express grievances through violence," Zenn said. "Thus, countering the ideology must be paramount. "Naturally governing better is important, too, but in most cases that will be a long process and tackling jihadist groups is an imminent concern," he added. Beyond quick fixes Akinola Olojo, a researcher on transnational threats with the South Africa-based Institute for Security Studies (ISS), however, believes that the existing threat of terrorism in Africa calls for the adoption of international strategies beyond quick fixes. "Countries in Africa and across the world must not assume that the decline in attacks signals the end of efforts aimed at addressing the root causes in affected countries," Olojo said. "There should be an intensification of efforts to address the so-called 'push factors' in communities where socio-economic challenges enable recruitment into terror groups," he added. Olojo expressed optimism that many countries are gradually recognizing the need to go beyond the military option while dealing with the threat of terrorism in the region. East Africa In East Africa, the U.S. report highlights threats posed to the region by al-Shabab terror group. Though it acknowledges that Somalia-based al-Shabab has not carried out any attack beyond Somalia and northeastern Kenya in 2017, the report says the group poses a threat to the security of the entire region. "It [al-Shabab] retained safe haven, access to recruits and resources, and de facto control over large parts of Somalia through which it moves freely," the report said. Some analysts, such as Olojo, charge that al-Shabab's apparent resiliency has a lot to do with its ability to appeal to people who feel marginalized. "Although al-Shabab has also suffered setbacks in terms of defections of its members and casualties, the group still mobilizes propaganda that can appeal to vulnerable audiences in and outside Somalia," Olojo said, adding that online platforms provide the group with the ability to reach out to people beyond Somalia. In October 2017, Somalian officials blamed the group for the deadliest terror attack in Somalia's history, when a truck bomb killed nearly 600 people in the capital, Mogadishu. Asymmetric attacks In the Lake Chad region, the U.S. report highlights a resurgence in asymmetric attacks on civilian, government and military targets by groups like Boko Haram and Islamic State. Scott Stewart, vice president of tactical analysis for Stratfor, a Texas-based research center, believes that the important issue to follow in the Lake Chad region is the leadership change within the Islamic State branch in West Africa (ISWAP). "If a leadership change of this group [IS] does indeed happen, or has happened, there is concern that these more radical elements may change the targeting of their faction to include more civilian targets. That could mean terrible things for civilians in the region," Stewart warned. He was referring to the emergence of a more radical faction of IS and reports that Mamman Nur, the de facto leader of ISWAP in the region, has been killed by the new radical IS faction. Zenn, of Jamestown Foundation, agrees with Stewart that ISWAP [Islamic State West Africa Province] has been, for the most part, very consistent with its attacks against military targets and has been relatively successful. "As a result, ISWAP began to administer territories more effectively than [Boko Haram leader Abubakar] Shekau and focus their targets on the military, not civilians, which has seemingly benefitted their insurgent campaign," Zenn said. But Stewart warns that with the new leadership, Islamic State, like the Shekau faction of Boko Haram, will shift its focus to non-military targets in the region. Sahel region In the Sahel region, the U.S. report notes an umbrella of al-Qaida-affiliated groups and an Islamic State affiliate in the region have expanded their operations in central Mali and in the border regions of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. To counter the threat, the three countries joined with Chad and Mauritania to form the G5 Sahel Force to fight the militants, but experts say one major challenge of counterterrorism efforts in the region has been the vast, porous and unpopulated border regions of the three countries. "The borders are long and porous and ethnic groups straddle on both sides of the borders, and terrorist groups know that states can be hesitant to chase them across the border of another nation. So they exploit everything they can," Zenn said. Jonathan Sears, a researcher with Centre FrancoPaix, University of Quebec in Montreal, Canada, argues that part of the problem has also been the apparent shortcomings in the provision of public services to the population in central Mali, which allowed militant groups such as al-Qaida and Islamic State to exploit people's grievances. "Where there is a lack of state public service provision, [these] so-called terror groups are providing some services, which strengthen their links within the population," Sears told VOA. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran ready to launch 3 satellites ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency Tue / 2 October 2018 / 14:22 Tehran (ISNA) The head of Iranian Space Agency (ISA) Morteza Berari announced that three domestically-made satellites have been completely built and are ready to be launched. In a press conference on the occasion of World Space Week (October 4-10), Berari said, domestically-made satellites Dousti, Payam and Nahid-1 have been completely built and are ready to be launched He expressed hope that the satellites will be placed into earth's orbit by the end of current Iranian year (March 20). "Payam will be placed into the orbit 500 kilometers above the earth's surface and its data will be used for developing programs," he added. Nahid 1 is the first Iranian satellite made specifically for communication purposes, which is designed and built by Iran Space Research Center. Payam satellite is designed and developed by Tehran's Amirkabir University of Technology and is planned to carry out imagery mission in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Iran has previously sent Simorgh satellite and Pajouhesh explorer into the orbit in recent years. Barari added that Zafar satellite will be built by the end of current Iranian year and will be placed in the queue to be launched then. The ISA has planned to build imagery satellites with one-meter-precision by the end of current Iran's 20-year National Vision program on 2025. Elsewhere in his remarks, he pointed to developing space startups, increasing Iran's space budget, establishing Supreme Space Council and space technologies internet TV as the main programs of ISA in the future. End Item NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address War End Is Not Just Gift: KCNA Commentary Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, October 2 (KCNA) -- Some Korean issue experts of America are recently spouting such rubbish that the U.S. should force the DPRK to not only notify its nuclear program and have it verified but also dismantle its Nyongbyon nuclear facility and missile facility in return for the U.S. response to its call for a war-end declaration. The issue of the war-end declaration should have been resolved half a century ago, under an armistice agreement. It is also the most basic and primary process for the establishment of new DPRK-U.S. relations and peace mechanism on the Korean peninsula, to which the U.S. was also committed. In actuality, the issue of the war end had already been proposed by the U.S. first during the Bush II administration more than one decade ago. As specified in the "Declaration for Development of North-South Relations and Peace and Prosperity" adopted on October 4, 2007 and the "Panmunjom Declaration for Peace, Prosperity and Reunification in the Korean Peninsula" on April 27 last, it is the matter to which the U.S. and other relevant parties paid more attention than the DPRK. The end of war, which meets the interests of not only the DPRK and the U.S. but also the countries in Northeast Asia wanting peace of the Korean peninsula, is not just a gift from a man to another at all. Furthermore, it can never be a bargaining chip for getting the DPRK denuclearized. Now that the DPRK and the U.S. are aspiring after the establishment of new relations true to the spirit of the June 12 DPRK-U.S. joint statement, it is quite right to put an end to the belligerent relations between them. But, if the U.S. doesn't want the end of war, the DPRK will also not particularly hope for it. As far as the Nyongbyon nuclear facility is concerned, it is just a core one for the nuclear program of the DPRK, as recognized by the U.S. and other countries of the world. Out of its fixed stand to remain true to the joint statement made at the DPRK-U.S. summit, the DPRK clarified in the "September Pyongyang joint declaration" that it is willing to continuously take such additional steps as eternal dismantlement of the Nyongbyon nuclear facility if the U.S. takes a corresponding measure. The DPRK is taking substantial and crucial steps to implement the joint statement made at the DPRK-U.S. summit, but the U.S. is still trying to subdue someone by resorting to sanctions, oft-repeating the story about escalation of sanctions pressure on the DPRK. Worse still, those called experts on the Korean issue are orchestrating a farce of putting a price on the issue which should have been settled 60 odd years ago. Whoever is truly interested in the settlement of the nuclear issue on the Korean peninsula should approach it with a proper understanding of the historical origin and essence of the nuclear issue of the Korean peninsula. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea has up to 60 nuclear bombs: Seoul Iran Press TV Tue Oct 2, 2018 02:55PM A South Korean minister says that North Korea is estimated to have up to 60 nuclear weapons, in Seoul's first public comment about the size of the North's arsenal. South Korea's Unification Minister Cho Myoung-gyon told lawmakers on Tuesday that estimates on the size of the North's nuclear arsenal ranged from 20 bombs to as many as 60. Cho said the information came from the intelligence authorities. However, the minister said this did not mean South Korea would accept the North as a nuclear state. He also suggested that Seoul's diplomatic efforts to halt the North's nuclear program continue. According to Seoul's government reports, the North is believed to have produced 50 kilograms of weaponry plutonium, enough for at least eight nuclear bombs. It is the first time a senior South Korean official has publicly spoken about the size of the North's secretive haul of weapons. Peace treaty no bargaining chip for denuclearization: North Korea In a commentary, North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) warned Washington on Tuesday that it cannot use a declaration to end the Korean War as a bargaining chip. However, it suggested the lifting of sanctions could progress talks. "The end of war... is not just a gift from a man to another at all. Furthermore, it can never be a bargaining chip for getting the DPRK denuclearised," it said, using the North's official name. The North has for decades demanded that the US formally declare the end of the 1950-53 conflict that was halted only with an armistice. The North's official news agency said its government has taken significant measures to end hostile relations with its southern neighbor. But it maintained that the US was "trying to subdue" it through sanctions. KCNA said that Pyongyang was willing to take "such... steps as eternal dismantlement" of its nuclear complex "if the US takes a corresponding measure." At a summit with the South's President Moon Jae-in last month, the North's leader Kim Jong-un offered to shut down its main Yongbyon nuclear complex if Washington takes "corresponding measures". US President Donald Trump met with Kim in June in what was the first-ever summit between the two countries, praising the North Korean leader for taking positive steps toward denuclearization. Observers describe as mixed signals between North Korea and the US with some analysts doubting true changes in the two countries' positions beyond rhetoric. Talks have been marred by US accusations that Pyongyang is violating UN sanctions and that the country remains "a significant threat."\ The North has responded by saying that Washington has betrayed the spirit of the summit by making unilateral demands while maintaining sanctions in place, effectively hindering inter-Korean relations. Pyongyang has firmly defended its military program as a deterrent against the hostile policies of the US and its regional allies, including South Korea and Japan. Thousands of US soldiers are stationed in South Korea and Japan. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia summons South Korean envoy over impounded vessel Iran Press TV Tue Oct 2, 2018 07:20AM Russia has summoned South Korea's ambassador to Moscow, demanding that Seoul immediately release a Russian shipping vessel that it has been "illegally" holding in the port of Busan. South Korea stopped the Russian-flagged vessel, the Sevastopol which had purportedly been heading to North Korea from leaving the Busan port after it docked there in mid-August for repair. Authorities also confiscated the vessel's documents, saying it was one of the six Russian vessels targeted by United States sanctions back in August. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the cargo ship and its crew of 14 Russians, who have not left the vessel, are being held "illegally." The ministry said in a statement that it told South Korean Ambassador Woo Yoon-keun on Monday that the "maritime authorities' ban on the vessel leaving the port" had to "be immediately canceled." According to Russian news agencies, Woo said that he expected the issue to be "definitively" resolved. "We expect that relations between Russia and South Korea will continue to develop successfully," he was quoted as saying. The US Treasury Department blacklisted six Russian vessels for alleged "ship-to-ship transfer of refined petroleum products with North Korea-flagged vessels." The Sevastopol's operator, Gudzon Shipping Co, is also sanctioned by Washington. Russia denies the allegations of violating UN sanctions. But Russian President Vladimir Putin has criticized Washington for pressing Pyongyang with harsh sanctions despite having opened direct talks with the North. He has called on his American counterpart, Donald Trump, to ease pressure on North Korea in response to Pyongyang's efforts toward denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. Last month, The Wall Street Journal cited US military officials as saying that the Trump administration was convening a multinational coalition to better track ships allegedly supplying fuel to North Korea. According to the officials, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and France will join Washington to form the coalition, which would also contribute warships and military surveillance aircraft to better monitor alleged shipments to the North. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pompeo to Meet With North Korea's Kim in Pyongyang in October State Dept Sputnik News 23:07 02.10.2018(updated 23:14 02.10.2018) WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will have a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Pyongyang on Sunday as part of his trip to Asia, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told reports on Tuesday. "Secretary Pompeo will travel to Japan, North Korea, the Republic of Korea, and China from October 6 to 8," Nauert announced. "In Tokyo, on October 6 and 7, the Secretary will meet with Prime Minister Abe and Foreign Minister Kono. In Pyongyang, on October 7, the Secretary will meet with Chairman Kim." She added that Pompeo will meet with South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Foreign Minister Kyung-wha in Seoul on October 7 and 8. On October 8, Pompeo will meet with his Chinese counterpart in Beijing to discuss "bilateral, regional and global issues." Earlier, on June 12, US President Donald Trump and Kim met in Singapore, where they reached an agreement that stipulates North Korea will denuclearize in exchange for a freeze of US-South Korean military drills and potential sanctions relief. No concrete timeframe was announced for achieving these goals. And there is no progress for now. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the second US-North Korea high-level summit is more likely to happen after October. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Terrorists killed, injured 254 Iraqis in Sept IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Tehran, Oct 2, IRNA -- A total of 75 Iraqi civilians were killed and another 179 injured in acts of terrorism, violence and armed conflict in Iraq in September 2018, according to casualty figures recorded by the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). The figures include ordinary citizens and others considered civilian at the time of death or injury, such as police in non-combat functions, civil defence, personal security teams, facilities protection police and fire department personnel. Of the overall figures recorded by UNAMI for the month of September, 71 ordinary civilians were killed. Baghdad was the worst affected Governorate, with 101 civilian casualties (31 killed, 70 injured), followed by Anbar (15 killed and 37 injured) and Salahadin (09 killed and 38 injured). The figures for Anbar were obtained by UNAMI from the Health Directorate in Anbar Governorate, and are updated until 30 September, inclusive. UNAMI has been hindered in effectively verifying casualties in certain areas; in some cases, UNAMI could only partially verify certain incidents. Figures for casualties from Anbar Governorate are provided by the Health Directorate and might not fully reflect the number of casualties due to the increased volatility of the situation on the ground in Anbar and the disruption of services. For these reasons, the figures reported have to be considered as the absolute minimum. 9376**1771 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Barham Salih elected new president of Iraq Iran Press TV Tue Oct 2, 2018 05:41PM Iraqi lawmakers have elected veteran Kurdish politician Barham Saleh president of the country. Lawmakers met on Tuesday to elect a new president after a dispute between the two main Kurdish parties delayed the vote on Monday. The two largest Kurdish parties each put forward a candidate for lawmakers to choose. Saleh from the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) party was declared as the next president after he defeated Fuad Hussein from the Kurdistan Democratic Party Party (KDP) following two rounds of voting. Saleh won a large majority in the second round. The vote went to a second round where Hussein withdrew his candidacy twice which was rejected on both occasions. For the first time, the two largest Kurdish parties each put forward a candidate. The new president must be elected with two-thirds of the vote in parliament, which is 220 votes. If no one candidate meets this threshold, a runoff vote will be held. The presidency has been reserved for the Kurds since Iraq's first multi-party elections in 2005, held two years after the US-led invasion. Under an unofficial agreement dating back to the 2003, Iraq's presidency, a largely ceremonial role, is held by a Kurd, while the prime minister is Shia Muslim and the parliament speaker is Sunni. Iraq held elections in May. Lawmakers must next elect a new president and task the leader of the largest bloc to form a government as prime minister. The country's main political alliances led by Muqtada Sadr's Sairoon bloc and the Fatah Alliance led by commander Hadi al-Amiri are expected to cooperate to form a new government. Incumbent Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has also announced that he is not seeking to serve a second term in office. Millions of Iraqis voted on May 12 in their first parliamentary election since the defeat of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group, but a contentious recount process delayed the announcement of final results until last month. The Iraqi politics has long been vulnerable to the differences lying along the country's major ethnic and sectarian fault lines. Any new government has to move quickly to address the country's chronic woes, including the poor quality of basic services as well as political and economic mismanagement. It would also have to face the mammoth task of rebuilding the country following three years of struggle against Daesh. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US could launch preemptive military strike against Russia: NATO envoy Iran Press TV Tue Oct 2, 2018 03:27PM The United States has threatened to launch a preemptive military strike against Russia if it does not halt developing a banned cruise missile system. Washington claims Moscow is violating a Cold War treaty and developing a ground-launched cruise missile which could empower Russia to launch a nuclear strike on Europe at short notice. Russia has repeatedly denied any such violation. "At that point, we would be looking at the capability to take out a (Russian) missile that could hit any of our countries," US ambassador to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison said at a news conference on Tuesday in Brussels. "Counter measures (by the United States) would be to take out the missiles that are in development by Russia in violation of the treaty," she added. "They are on notice." Russia has not so far made any comment on the unprecedented threat issued by the top US official permanently stationed in the NATO headquarters. In the past, Moscow has said it is ready for talks with Washington to preserve the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty and would comply with its rules and regulations if the United States did. In 2017, the US State Department accused Russia of violating its obligations "not to possess, produce, or flight-test" a ground-launched cruise missile with a range capability of 500 km to 5,500 km (310-3,417 miles). A US official in the same year said that the United States would consider its own system if Russia continued its covert development of the banned system. The three-decade-old arms control treaty bans the development of medium-range missiles capable of hitting Europe or Alaska. "We have been trying to send a message to Russia for several years that we know they are violating the treaty, we have shown Russia the evidence that we have that they are violating the treaty," Hutchison said. "We are laying down the markers so that our allies will help us bring Russia to the table," she added. Meanwhile, US Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis said he would raise the issue with his NATO counterparts in Brussels on Wednesday and Thursday. "I cannot forecast where it will go, it is a decision for the president, but I can tell you that both on Capitol Hill and in State Department, there is a lot of concern about this situation and I'll return with the advice of our allies and engage in that discussion to determine the way ahead," he told reporters in Paris on Tuesday following his meeting with French Defense Minister Florence Parly. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Military Death Toll In Syria Reaches 112, Lawmaker Says October 02, 2018 The Russian military has lost 112 personnel in the Syrian civil war over the past three years, according to a senior lawmaker who heads a defense committee in Russia's parliament. Nearly half of the total were killed in two incidents: 15 personnel died when a reconnaissance plane was shot down last month and 39 died in a transport plane crash earlier this year, the lawmaker said on September 30, according to Russian news agencies. "Currently the losses of our armed forces in Syria have amounted to 112 people, almost half of which were claimed by the An-26 [transport plane] catastrophe and the downed Il-20," Viktor Bondarev, the former commander of Russian Aerospace Forces and chairman of the Defense and Security Committee in the Federation Council, was quoted as saying. Despite the growing death toll, Bondarev claimed it compares favorably with the thousands of Russians killed during its 1980s war in Afghanistan and with the thousands of Americans killed after the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003. Regarding equipment, Russia has lost a total of eight planes, seven helicopters, and one or two armored vehicles, Bondarev was quoted as saying. Also fighting in Syria are an unknown number of Russians who are not directly employed by the state but who play a role in supporting Syrian government forces. An independent monitor, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, reported earlier this year that dozens of personnel from a Russian security contractor were killed amid coalition air strikes in the eastern province of Deir al-Zour. Based on reporting by dpa, TASS, and Interfax Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russian-military-death-toll-syria- reaches-112-lawmaker-bondarev-says/29520461.html Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Who Was Who? The Key Players In Russia's Dramatic October 1993 Showdown RFE/RL October 02, 2018 MOSCOW -- It brought Russia to the brink of civil war and resulted in the worst street violence in Moscow since the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution. Twenty-five years ago, on October 4, 1993, months of political conflict climaxed when President Boris Yeltsin ordered the army to shell and storm the country's legislature. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the country had been riven by a fundamental conflict between the leftists in parliament and the right-centrist, free-market reformers in Yeltsin's government. The much-amended and fatally outdated 1978 Soviet Constitution offered no way out of the mounting standoff. Yeltsin ordered the disbanding of the parliament, the Supreme Soviet, on September 21 and called for new elections. But under the leadership of Yeltsin's chief rivals, Supreme Soviet speaker Ruslan Khasbulatov and Vice President Aleksandr Rutskoi, rebel lawmakers barricaded themselves in Moscow's White House -- the building housing parliament -- and voted to impeach the president over what they regarded as an illegal order. The country fell into a dangerous dual-power situation. Yeltsin responded by isolating the building, surrounding it with police and cutting off electricity, telephones, and water. When Khasbulatov and Rutskoi incited armed gangs of anti-Yeltsin protesters to attack the Ostankino television studio, the nerve center of Russia's broadcast media, and the Moscow mayor's office, Yeltsin declared a state of emergency and ordered a military assault on the Supreme Soviet. RFE/RL takes a look at some of the key players in these events, which in many ways set the stage for the course Russia took over the next two decades. The President: Boris Yeltsin He was the unlikely hero of Russia's perestroika-era democratic movement. In the late 1980s, Boris Yeltsin transformed himself from regional Communist Party boss to populist firebrand. This metamorphosis climaxed with the iconic image of Yeltsin standing on a tank and facing down a hard-line coup in front of the Moscow White House in August 1991 -- which precipitated the breakup of the Soviet Union and catapulted Yeltsin into the Kremlin. But by the spring of 1993, the luster of those heady days was wearing thin. Russia's post-Soviet economy was mired in crisis as Yeltsin's market reforms, known as shock therapy, were increasingly unpopular. Throughout the second half of 1992, the legislature refused to confirm economist Yegor Gaidar as Yeltin's choice for prime minister. In a compromise move, Yeltsin nominated former Gazprom head Viktor Chernomyrdin instead and he was confirmed in December 1992. Yeltsin performed well in an April 1993 referendum on his rule. But as the summer wore on, he found himself increasingly in conflict with the Supreme Soviet, its speaker, Ruslan Khasbulatov, and his own vice president, Aleksandr Rutskoi. With gridlock and confrontation paralyzing the country, Yeltsin on September 21, 1993, signed Decree No. 1400, which dissolved the legislature and set elections for a new bicameral parliament for December. Yeltsin's move contravened several articles of the Soviet-era constitution then in effect, which Yeltsin and his supporters had long argued was so hopelessly outdated and extensively amended that the new country desperately needed a new one. Yeltsin based his decree on the fact that nearly two-thirds of Russians in the April referendum had voted in favor of immediate parliamentary elections. The president claimed the move was necessary to carry out needed economic reforms, establish a market economy, and prevent a return to the Soviet past. When legislators barricaded themselves in the Moscow White House and impeached Yeltsin, he ignored them and cut off electricity, phone service, and hot water to the building. Clashes broke out between police and anti-Yeltsin protesters, who set up barricades in the capital. When demonstrators attacked the Ostankino TV tower and the Moscow mayor's office, Yeltsin ordered the Interior Ministry to declare a state of emergency. And in the early hours of October 4, Yeltsin reportedly ordered Defense Minister Pavel Grachev to have his troops shell and storm the White House. By midday, troops loyal to Yeltsin had managed to secure the building and arrest the rebel lawmakers. Three months later, a new constitution was approved in a national referendum, giving the president enormous powers that the office maintains to this day. Yeltsin won a second term as president in a controversial election in 1996. His health had deteriorated, and the Kremlin became embroiled in a series of corruption scandals. Yeltsin unexpectedly resigned on New Year's Eve 1999, turning power over to his prime minister and chosen successor, former KGB officer Vladimir Putin, who has since used the powers of the presidency to steer Russia in a more authoritarian direction. Yeltsin died in 2007. Sergei Filatov, the president's chief of staff in October 2003, reflected on the crisis in a 2013 interview with RFE/RL's Russian Service: "Most important, of course, is in that fight with the opposition all contact was lost between the president and the parliament. Confidence between each other was completely lost. And most importantly, there was strong interference in the efforts to carry out economic reforms. "It wasn't just Yeltsin who had the sickness. We all had that Soviet, imperial mentality, where strength will always better solve the problem as opposed to negotiations and compromise. It was a sickness of Yeltsin, it was a sickness of [former Soviet leader Mikhail] Gorbachev -- it was a sickness we all had. It wasn't an accident that we always supported the forceful option in solving this or that issue, which means that we didn't grow up to the level of ability to solve issues by peaceful means. "We survived that time and we should have learned something from it, but unfortunately, we didn't learn anything. For the last 20 years, we've acted with the same methods -- without agreement, attention, or understanding of public opinion and all actions are used by the authorities, which constitutionally can use their power to preserve a normal state for society. But it's not always good. If we're headed to a democratic society, we need to change our methods of managing the country and the methods of interaction with elements of power." The Speaker: Ruslan Khasbulatov An economist of Chechen origin, Khasbulatov was a close ally of Yeltsin's in the waning days of the Soviet Union. He was elected to Soviet Russia's Congress of People's Deputies in 1990 and backed Yeltsin in his resistance to the failed hard-line coup in August 1991. After the Soviet breakup, Khasbulatov was elected speaker of the Supreme Soviet, where he quickly consolidated power. He also began to fall out with Yeltsin over policy differences, most notably Yeltsin's pursuit of so-called shock therapy to establish a market economy. This quickly escalated into a bitter power struggle between the two men and their supporters. In September 1993, Khasbulatov publicly denounced the president as an alcoholic and called for his resignation. After Yeltsin's decree to dissolve the legislature, Khasbulatov gathered rebel lawmakers in the White House, where they voted to impeach Yeltsin and install Vice President Aleksandr Rutskoi as president. Addressing supporters from the balcony of the White House, Khasbulatov urged them to storm the Kremlin and imprison "the criminal usurper Yeltsin." After the storming and shelling of the White House on October 4, Khasbulatov was arrested. In 1994, the newly elected parliament, the State Duma, amnestied him and other leaders of the anti-Yeltsin resistance. He has left politics and teaches economics at the Plekhanov Russian Academy of Economics in Moscow. Speaking to RFE/RL's Russian Service in 2013, Khasbulatov indicated that he believed his position in the fall of 1993 had been vindicated by subsequent events: "An unconstitutional, criminal decree was issued on September 21. But before that, the executive branch had devised a plot to overthrow the existing political system. On September 21, they began implementing that plot through a military coup. "The only option we had left was to launch an impeachment procedure, in accordance with the constitution, and to submit both the presidential decree and our decision for consideration by the Constitutional Court. Need I remind you what the Constitutional Court decided? The Constitutional Court, under the leadership of Valery Zorkin, who is still the court's chairman, ruled that Yeltsin's decree was illegal and that parliament had the right to impeach him. "Yeltsin and his entourage committed a grave crime against the state. This should be the subject of a new parliamentary investigation. We need a new commission to investigate it, without any haste, and bring this issue to a close. "Yeltsin received support when he shelled the parliament, but do you see what kind of constitution we have now? It's not just a constitution, it's a super-constitution. Nobody has any power in our country except the president. You can't even sneeze without his permission. And that is a direct consequence of what happened back then." The Vice President: Aleksandr Rutskoi A decorated Afghan war veteran, Yeltsin chose Rutskoi as his running mate in 1991 when he successfully ran for president of the Soviet Union's Russian republic. Like Khasbulatov, he was on Yeltsin's side during the failed August 1991 coup. And like Khasbulatov, he fell out with Yeltsin and his team after the Soviet collapse. He was particularly critical of the team of young economists, including Yegor Gaidar and Anatoly Chubais, whom Yeltsin tapped to spearhead his economic reforms. Beginning in late 1992, Rutskoi began accusing Yeltsin and his entourage of corruption. As head of a state anticorruption council, Rutskoi famously claimed to have "suitcases of kompromat," or incriminating materials, on them. In September 1993, after Yeltsin evicted Rutskoi from his Kremlin office and had the door sealed, Khasbulatov gave him space in the parliament building. After Yeltsin dissolved parliament and the rebel lawmakers voted to impeach him, Rutskoi was sworn in as "acting president." Speaking with Khasbulatov from the balcony of the White House on October 3, Rutskoi called on protesters in Moscow to storm the Ostankino TV station and the mayor's office, setting off the chain of events that led to the shelling of the White House. Rutskoi was arrested together with Khasbulatov and other leaders of the rebellion and charged with inciting mass disturbances. He was freed in an amnesty the following year. Rutskoi formed a nationalist political party, Derzhava, and in 1996 was elected governor of Kursk Oblast, serving until 2000. He has since left public life. He spoke to RFE/RL's Russian Service in 2013: "For 18 years we've been given a series of lies about the events of 1993. But in the past two years, the seeds of truth have begun to sprout. I strongly support this for two reasons: not to settle scores with anyone, but to let people know the truth about these tragic events so they're never repeated. Because it's a fratricidal war. "This is purely a principled position: so no one would ever think and no one would ever say that I cast aside Yeltsin from his chair and rushed to power. I wanted just one thing: that economic reforms were not in the interests of a list in Forbes [magazine] but in the interest of the population. Tragically, I was right -- this was the consequence of the privatization: The impoverishment of the population was total -- we lost our industrial, agricultural, and military capacities. "When it's said that there was a constitutional crisis, there was no such thing. All Yeltsin's legislative initiatives were, in accordance with the constitution, introduced and decided on in the Congress of People's Deputies." The Would-Be Prime Minister: Yegor Gaidar In June 1992, Yeltsin named 36-year-old liberal economist Yegor Gaidar as prime minister. He advocated a radical and painful program of rapid economic liberalization known as "shock therapy" that polarized the country. The legislature repeatedly refused to confirm him as prime minister over the summer of 1992, producing the most visible symbol of the split between the two branches of government. In December 1992, as part of a bid to reach a compromise with the Supreme Soviet, Yeltsin nominated former Gazprom head Viktor Chernomyrdin as premier and he was confirmed. Gaidar continued as a leading economic adviser to the government. In September 1993, in what was seen as a deliberate snub of the legislature, Gaidar was appointed first deputy prime minister overseeing economic policy. On October 3, shortly after Khasbulatov and Rutskoi called on their supporters to storm Ostankino and the mayor's office in the capital, Gaidar appeared on TV, speaking from a remote studio because of the heavy fighting outside Ostankino, and urged ordinary citizens to come out into the streets and support Russia's reforms despite the presence of numerous snipers across the capital. He said that if Khasbulatov and Rutskoi prevailed, Russia would be "turned into an enormous concentration camp for decades." In the December 1993 Duma elections, Gaidar headed the progovernment Russia's Choice party. In a time when government-allied parties in Russia could still lose elections, Russia's Choice polled just 15.51 percent, losing to nationalist Vladimir Zhirinovsky's Liberal Democratic Party of Russia (LDPR) and barely beating Gennady Zyuganov's Communist Party. Gaidar resigned from government in 1994 and returned to academic life. He remains widely reviled among the Russian public. He died in 2009 at the age of 53. Vladimir Putin, who was prime minister at the time, described Gaidar as "a genuine citizen and patriot." "He didn't dodge responsibility and took his blows in the most challenging of situations with honor and courage," Putin said. The Radical: Viktor Anpilov Viktor Anpilov was a hard-line communist member of the Supreme Soviet and one of the most radical and outspoken opponents of Yeltsin and his economic reforms. He maintained ties with the radical, anti-Semitic Pamyat movement and openly called himself a Stalinist. He organized numerous mass demonstrations against Yeltsin in the 1991-93 period. On October 3, Anpilov led his supporters to a mass demonstration outside the besieged parliament building. About 2,000 supporters showed up and broke through the barricades and into the area around the White House. There they joined forces with armed supporters of parliament inside and launched the assault on the mayor's office and Ostankino. Anpilov was arrested with the other leaders of the uprising on October 7 and was pardoned by the Duma in February 1994. He continued to participate in radical leftist politics until his death in January 2018 at the age of 72. The Defense Minister: Pavel Grachev As Yeltsin's standoff against Khasbulatov and Rutskoi careened toward violence, the role of the army became increasingly vital. As a career soldier, Defense Minister Pavel Grachev rose through the military ranks and became head of the Soviet paratroopers in 1990. He backed Yeltsin during the thwarted hard-line coup of August 1991 and, according to some press reports, even warned him of the plot ahead of time. And Yeltsin rewarded him handsomely. After the Soviet breakup, Grachev enjoyed a meteoric rise, becoming defense minister in May 1992. As the constitutional crisis of 1993 unfolded, Grachev again demonstrated his loyalty to Yeltsin, ordering his troops to shell and storm the White House. Footage taken at the time showed Grachev praising his troops for saving Russia from a civil war. Just weeks after the storming of the White House, Grachev was made a member of Yeltsin's powerful Security Council and decorated for "personal courage." But in the coming years he would be dogged by allegations of corruption, earning the moniker "Pasha Mercedes." Grachev's reputation additionally suffered when Dmitry Kholodov, a 27-year-old journalist at the daily Moskovsky Komsomolets, was killed by a booby-trapped briefcase after publishing a series of articles on corruption in the Defense Ministry. In the halls of power, Grachev also became part of the so-called party of war, a group of advisers -- including presidential security chief Aleksandr Korzhakov, Federal Security Service (FSB) chief Mikhail Barsukov, and First Deputy Prime Minister Oleg Soskovets -- who reportedly persuaded Yeltsin to launch his disastrous military campaign in breakaway Chechnya in 1994. Grachev was fired in July 1996, shortly after Yeltsin won a second term in the Kremlin, in a move seen at the time as a purge of Kremlin hard-liners. He worked as an adviser to Russia's state arms exporter until 2007. Grachev died in September 2012 at the age of 64. The Interior Minister: Viktor Yerin Just as with the army, the role of the police and Interior Ministry forces was central to how Yeltsin's conflict with the parliament played out. Interior Minister Viktor Yerin was a career police officer, a veteran of the Afghan war, and a Yeltsin loyalist. On October 1, in the midst of the standoff, Yeltsin promoted him to the rank of general and, afterward, awarded him with the title "Hero of the Russian Federation." Yerin was forced to resign as interior minister in June 1995 after a failed attempt to rescue hostages taken by Chechen rebel leader Shamil Basayev in Budyonnovsk, in southern Russia. He served as deputy head of Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) until 2000 and then faded from public life. He died in March 2008 at the age of 64. The Bodyguard: Aleksandr Korzhakov Aleksandr Korzhakov was Yeltsin's chief bodyguard, confidant, and reportedly, his drinking buddy. A career KGB man, Korzhakov hailed from the security agency's 9th Division, which was tasked with guarding high officials. In the 1980s, he was assigned to Yeltsin when the future president was a rising party star who had just been named first secretary of the Moscow Communist Party, essentially the capital's mayor. When Yeltsin was removed from office after criticizing the slow pace of Gorbachev's reforms, Korzhakov stuck with him. And as Yeltsin ascended in the perestroika-era democratic movement, Korzhakov was by his side. When Yeltsin got to the Kremlin, Korzhakov became head of the powerful Presidential Guard Service, wielding enormous behind-the-scenes influence. Some observers say it was Korzhakov who ultimately convinced Yeltsin to shell and storm the White House. After the crisis of October 1993, Korzhakov's influence grew. Together with Grachev, he reportedly persuaded Yeltsin to send troops to breakaway Chechnya in 1994. Korzhakov was fired in July 1996. In 1997, he published a memoir of his Kremlin years, titled Boris Yeltsin: From Dusk Till Dawn, in which he lambasted Yeltsin's entourage. He wrote that Yeltsin, before the October 1993 events, ordered him to prepare a plan to arrest all the members of the Supreme Soviet if they passed an impeachment resolution against the president. He also wrote that Yeltsin had looked into the possibility of using chemicals to "smoke out" the deputies who were barricaded in the White House. He served as a deputy in the State Duma as an independent representative from Tula from 1997 to 2011. Khorzhakov is currently retired and reportedly working on another volume of memoirs. The American: Terry Duncan Terry Duncan, known by his middle name Mike, was an American lawyer who went out to the Ostankino firefight out of curiosity. When fighting broke out and snipers began shooting into the crowd and at journalists, Duncan, 26, began helping wounded victims. "He went back and forth several times, checking on people to see if they were OK," said Otto Pohl, a New York Times photographer who was shot that day and was one of the people assisted by Duncan. Duncan was eventually shot in the head and killed during the firefight. He had been in Moscow just a few months, working to set up a new law firm with a partner, Jamison Firestone. The firm they created, Firestone Duncan, later had another brush with tragedy in Russia. It was the firm that hired Russian lawyer and auditor Sergei Magnitsky, who died in Russian custody in November 2009, sparking a massive international campaign against human rights abuses in Putin's Russia. A previous version of this story was published on October 3, 2013. Interviews conducted by Mikhail Sokolov and Anastasia Kirilenko from RFE/RL's Russian Service in Moscow. Compiled by Tom Balmforth in Moscow and Robert Coalson and Glenn Kates in Prague. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russian-military-death-toll-syria- reaches-112-lawmaker-bondarev-says/29520461.html Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Could 'Take Out' Controversial Russian Weapon If Necessary, Envoy Says RFE/RL October 02, 2018 The U.S. ambassador to NATO has said that if necessary, the United States would consider destroying a Russian missile system that Washington contends Moscow is developing in violation of a nuclear arms treaty. Speaking to reporters in Brussels on October 2, Ambassador Kay Bailey Hutchison called on Russia to halt development of the 9M729, which the United States says is a violation of the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. "It is time now for Russia to come to the table and stop the violations," Hutchison said on the eve of a meeting between Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and his NATO counterparts. If the system "became capable of delivering," she said, the United States "would then be looking at the capability to take out a missile that could hit any of our countries in Europe and hit America." Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called the statement "dangerous." Moscow denies it is violating the INF treaty, which banned all land-based cruise missiles with a range of 500-5,500 kilometers -- rockets that in Russia's case would be capable of reaching Europe or Alaska, and claims the United States has violated it -- an allegation Washington denies. Hutchison said that the United States was committed to a diplomatic solution but would consider military action if necessary. "Countermeasures [by the United States] would be to take out the missiles that are in development by Russia in violation of the treaty," she added. "They are on notice." The comments by Hutchison, who was appointed to the NATO post by President Donald Trump, appeared to be the most direct warning of a preemptive strike since a U.S. official said in 2017 that the United States would consider creating its own system if Russia continued to violate the INF treaty. They come at a time when relations between Russia and NATO remain tense due to disputes over issues including Russia's military action in Ukraine and Syria, its alleged meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, and the Western accusation that Moscow was behind the poisoning of ex-spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in England in March. In 2017, 30 years after the Cold War-era treaty was signed by the United States and the Soviet Union, a U.S. State Department report said that Russia had violated obligations "not to possess, produce, or flight-test" an intermediate-range, ground-launched cruise missile "or to possess or produce launchers of such missiles." "We have been trying to send a message to Russia for several years that we know they are violating the treaty, we have shown Russia the evidence that we have that they are violating the treaty," Hutchison said. "We are laying down the markers so that our allies will help us bring Russia to the table." Mattis said he would discuss the issue with his NATO defense ministers at a meeting in Brussels on October 3-4. "I cannot forecast where it will go, it is a decision for the president, but I can tell you that both on Capitol Hill and in State Department, there is a lot of concern about this situation and I'll return with the advice of our allies and engage in that discussion to determine the way ahead," he told reporters in Paris. With reporting by Reuters, AP, dpa, and TASS Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/u-s-could-take-out -controversial-russian-weapon-if-it-becomes -operational-envoy-says/29521388.html Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Objects To British Plans To Boost Military Presence In Arctic October 02, 2018 The Russian Embassy in London is objecting to Britain's reported plans to boost its military presence in the Arctic next year to counter what London has called increasing Russian aggression. The objections were raised on October 1 after British Defense Secretary Gavin Williamson told The Sunday Telegraph that the government is preparing a "defense Arctic strategy" that would deploy 800 army and marine commandos to Norway in 2019 and establish a new military base there. The newspaper said Britain's actions come amid signs that Russia is expanding its military and industrial presence in the Arctic, in particular to exploit the region's large untapped reserves of oil as climate change melts polar ice and makes navigation and habitation in the region more feasible. "We see Russian submarine activity very close to the level that it was at the Cold War, and it's right that we start responding to that," Williamson told the newspaper. Williamson separately at a ruling party conference on September 30 called Russia "one of the greatest threats we face today," and said: "We will not let the Kremlin rewrite the outcome of the Cold War." Williamson's remarks prompted a warning from the Russian Embassy against posting troops in the Arctic. "We call on British authorities, who have recently been actively promoting the concept of Global Britain, to pursue their ambitions in other fields," the embassy's press secretary said in a statement quoted by the Russian state-run news agency TASS. "The unjustified British plans to build up its military presence in close proximity to Russia's borders will only result in creating unnecessary tensions," he said. "Russia and other Arctic countries consider this region to be a space for constructive cooperation... There is no potential for conflict, nor should there be." Based on reporting by AP, AFP, and TASS Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-objects-british-plans-boost- military-presence-arctic-williamson/29520541.html Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address IAEA rejects Israeli PM anti-Iran request IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Tehran, Oct 2, IRNA The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in a statement rejected Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's request for inspecting Iran nuclear program again. Addressing the UNGA meeting, Netanyahu claimed that Iran has a nuclear warehouse in Turquzabad, south of Tehran, which has been hidden to the IAEA inspectors. 'The Agency implements safeguards in accordance with its rights and obligations deriving from the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreements and the Additional Protocols concluded between the Agency and States, relevant IAEA Board of Governors and the UN Security Council decisions and resolutions, and based on the Agency's established safeguards practices. It should be noted that under the existing verification framework the Agency sends inspectors to sites and locations only when needed,' the statement reads. 'The Agency uses all safeguards relevant information available to it but it does not take any information at face value. In line with established safeguards practices, all information obtained, including from third parties, is subject to rigorous review and assessed together with other available information to arrive at an independent assessment based on the Agency's own expertise. It is not the practice of the Agency to publicly discuss issues related to any such information,' it added. 'The Agency's work related to nuclear verification is and must always be impartial, factual, and professional. In order to maintain credibility, the Agency's independence in relation to the implementation of verification activities is of paramount importance.' 'The Agency's verification activities in Iran are being carried out based on the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement (CSA) concluded with Iran and the Additional Protocol, that Iran is provisionally implementing. In addition, the Agency is also carrying out verification and monitoring of Iran's nuclear-related commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). These activities will continue to be carried out within the parameters of the relevant decisions and resolutions of the IAEA Board of Governors and the UN Security Council as appropriate.' 'As I stated in my reports to the IAEA Board of Governors, evaluations regarding the absence of undeclared nuclear material and activities for Iran remain ongoing. The Agency continues to evaluate Iran's declarations under the Additional Protocol, and has conducted complementary accesses under the Additional Protocol to all the sites and locations in Iran which it needed to visit.' Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi earlier said that the claims made by the Zionist regime's prime minister against Iran's nuclear program did not deserve a response. The ridiculous show and allegations were predictable as long as Benjamin Netanyahu was concerned. Earlier on Friday, Iran's envoy to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) reacted to Netanyahu's unfounded allegations by saying that Iran is watching 'Israel's criminal behavior whenever they do it wherever they do it.' Meanwhile, the Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in a message urged the Zionist regime of Israel to admit to and open its 'undeclared' nuclear arsenal to the UN inspectors. 'No arts & craft show will ever obfuscate that Israel is only regime in our region with a *secret* and *undeclared* nuclear weapons program - including an *actual atomic arsenal*,' said Zarif in a tweet on September 28 with a reference to the allegations made by the Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu at the United Nations General Assembly. 9376**1420 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address To better control the growth and influence of Christianity, the Chinese government plans to incorporate Buddhist scripture and Confucian teachings into the Bible and edit worship songs to include Chinese characteristics, the head of a persecution watchdog has revealed. The Rev. Bob Fu, founder of the persecution watchdog organization China Aid, told Congress that the Three Self Patriotic Movement and the Chinese Christian Council (China's state-sanctioned Protestant bodies) have developed a five-year plan on "promoting the Sinicization of Christianity," The Christian Post reports. The plan, finalized at a meeting this March, proposes "cultivating and implementing the socialist core values" and will be supervised by the national religious affairs bureau. "Every province, autonomous region and municipality's TSPM and CCC seminaries and churches will cooperate with it," according to Fu. To "sinicize" (bring under Chinese control) Christianity, the government plans to "retranslate" the Old Testament and provide new commentary to the New Testament, Fu revealed. "The plan made it clear that 'Sinicization of Christianity' means to change 'Christianity in China' into 'Chinese Christianity,'" he explained. [The plan] emphasized that 'the heart and soul of Christianity's Sinicization is to Sincize the Christian theology,' and even proposing to 're-translate the Bible or re-write biblical commentaries.'" A retranslation would be a summary of the Old Testament with some Buddhist scripture and Confucian teachings and new commentary for the New Testament, Fu said. "There are outlines that the new Bible should not look westernized and [should look] Chinese and reflect Chinese ethics of Confucianism and socialism," Fu told CP. "The Old Testament will be messed up. The New Testament will have new commentaries to interpret it." Fu added that the five-year plan advocates for "incorporating the Chinese elements into church worship services, hymns and songs, clergy attire, and the architectural style of church buildings." "This includes 'editing and publishing worship songs with Chinese characteristics and promoting the Sinicization of worship music,' using uniquely Chinese art forms, such as Chinese painting, calligraphy, inscription, and paper-cutting to express the Christian faith,'" he said. "[It's also] encouraging churches to blend in style with Chinese architecture to local architectural style." Fu revealed that already, state officials have urged 20,000 underground house churches to close and join the state-sanctioned church. Leaders of these churches, he said, must pledge their loyalty to the Communist party. "The first criteria they have to pass is whether they can publicly pledge they will [uphold] the party's words and the party's path. These slogans are being hanged around the church, even in many Catholic churches, on the walls and on the doors. On the entrance door, it says, 'Listen to the words of the party, follow the path of the party.' How can you have a real independent faith as believers? As Christian believers, we are taught to obey the command of the Lord and listen to the command of the Lord. Essentially, the communist party wants to impose themselves as the Lord over the church." Fu told CP that according to the former chairman of the TSPM, they believe the "doctrine of justification of faith by Jesus Christ is too narrow." "He is promoting justification by love in doing good deeds. He essentially said that God is very inclusive so these communist party heroes he listed are doing so many good deeds and they should be accepted into Heaven by our God," he explained. "It is kind of a universalist doctrine." Since the official "Regulations on Religious Affairs" came into effect on February 1, 2018, Christians have experienced increased persecution at the hands of the Communist government. Authorities have demolished hundreds of Protestant churches, knocked crosses off steeples, evicted congregations, and imprisoned pastors. As earlier reported, hundreds of Chinese pastors recently signed a statement denouncing the government's efforts to restrict Christianity. "[U]nder no circumstances will we lead our churches to join a religious organization controlled by the government, to register with the religious administration department, or to accept any kind of affiliation," the pastors say. "We also will not accept any 'ban' or 'fine' imposed on our churches due to our faith." The statement also makes four points addressing the Chinese government's continued crackdown on Christian churches. Christian churches in China believe unconditionally that the Bible is the Word and Revelation of God. Christian churches in China are eager and determined to walk the path of the cross of Christ and are more than willing to imitate the older generation of saints who suffered and were martyred for their faith. Christian churches in China are willing to obey authorities in China whom God has appointed and to respect the government's authority to govern society and human conduct. For this reason, we believe and are obligated to teach all believers that all true churches in China that belong to Christ must hold to the principle of the separation of church and state and must proclaim Christ as the sole head of the church. In the statement, the pastors say they are prepared to bear all losses - "even the loss of our freedom and our lives," for the sake of the Gospel. Fernando Alonso is excited to double-up on racing in Japan this season. He will compete for McLaren this weekend in Suzuka and then move to Fuji ready for the next chapter of the WEC. The consensus from the paddock is that Suzuka is one of the best tracks on the calendar. Alonso is the latest driver to be added on to this list. "I love Suzuka - it's one of the best tracks of the year. I've had some great memories there - 2006 is a personal highlight," Alonso said in an interview on F1i. It's a good job Alonso likes spending time in Japan. He has an endurance challenge of his own staying in the country for a couple of weeks but is pleased he finally gets a chance to adjust to the time zone! "This year Ill finally be able to get used to the time zone, as Ill be there for two weeks, one week in Suzuka and one in Fuji," Alonso added. "Im looking forward to it and also to visiting Tokyo, where Ill try to spend as many days as possible between racing." As Alonso enters his final few races in an F1 cockpit, it's still clear he has the excitement of a young driver making his debut in the sport. "The first sector is quite impressive, and when everything works well, and youre confident in the car you can really push through the Esses," added Alonso. "The g-forces, and the feelings you get when you race there are quite amazing. As drivers, we love the speed even when its flat-out its still enjoyable." The Spaniard is currently inside the top 10 in the drivers' standings. But he faces strong competition from both Force India drivers. Toro Rosso driver Pierre Gasly has called Japan a "second home" as he prepares for Honda's home race. Honda are the engine suppliers for Toro Rosso, and also becoming the supplier for their main team Red Bull in time for next season. The Japanese manufacturer is a title sponsor for the race this weekend. Gasly has previous in Japan; racing the majority of 2017 competing in the Super Formula series, but was denied the chance to claim the title after the final race was cancelled due to a typhoon. The soon-to-be Red Bull driver reminisces on some great memories in Asia ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix. "Japan will feel a bit like my second home as I spent so much time there last year, when I was racing in Super Formula with Honda," Gasly explained to The Checkered Flag. "It was a special season with great memories from the actual racing and also away from the circuits. It's a country I really like for its culture, the mentality of the people and the way they think. "I think it was very useful working with Honda last year, as I got an understanding of how they go about things, which is proving useful to me this season." Gasly will be determined to bounce back from his DNF that he unfortunately suffered in Sochi last weekend. The confrontation between protesters and Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and his wife lasted only a minute or so. The fallout for Fiola, the downtown restaurant where the incident took place, has continued for days, chef and co-owner Fabio Trabocchi said. A week ago, only days before Cruz and the rest of the Senate Judiciary Committee heard testimony from Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and a California professor who has accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault, the Republican senator and his spouse, Heidi, tried to have a quiet dinner at Fiola, the three-star Italian fine-dining restaurant where tasting menus start at $115 per person. But protesters interrupted the couple even before they sat down, chanting "We believe survivors," a reference to sexual-assault survivors such as Christine Blasey Ford, one of several Kavanaugh accusers. The disruption seemed to work: The Cruzes were escorted from the restaurant via a side door, evidently never to return. The outrage machine immediately engaged. Fiola's social media accounts were attacked. Its Yelp page was bombarded with so many one-star smears that San Francisco-based Yelp had to initiate an "active cleanup alert." Fiola's phone and reservation lines were tied up with calls - sometimes 50 calls a day from the same number. Owners Fabio and Maria Trabocchi and their staff were threatened, either for not doing enough to protect Cruz and his wife or for allegedly tipping off the protesters to the senator's presence. "We have received several life-threatening messages, and so has the staff," Fabio Trabocchi said during a call from Venice. "The police have been informed, both to be vigilant for the restaurant and . . . to be vigilant to my house, mostly because my kids live there. Me and Maria, doing the jobs that we're doing, we're not always at home." The chef said it was "too soon to tell" if these disruptions to his operations have affected sales at Fiola. - - - The Trabocchis, the chef said, are in a tricky situation. They don't want to add fuel to a still-smoldering situation, but they do want to explain themselves - and clarify some points that have taken on a life of their own on social media. The couple issued an email statement over the weekend to friends and regular patrons of Fiola. For starters, Trabocchi said, the staff did everything within their limited powers to protect Cruz and his spouse. Staffers shielded the Cruzes from protesters as they escorted the couple out of the restaurant. Employees then concealed the Cruzes in the kitchen for about 10 minutes until police had cleared out the protesters. Once the restaurant was clear, the Cruzes returned to their table and had dinner as scheduled, Trabocchi said, contrary to some reports that the couple had left for good that evening. The staff was "dealing with a situation they don't deserve, and they are not honestly prepared to deal with and they shouldn't be," Trabocchi said. "People expect us [to] throw these people out. We can't do that. We can't use force. We need the police to come in and do what they need to do." "There is no restaurant that I know that trains its staff to deal with a situation of this kind," the chef continued. "Perhaps it's the result of the time we're living in. Perhaps it's the fact that we're in Washington, D.C. . . . I just want to make sure that they have training that they can follow - even though those situations, as you can imagine, they happen very quickly." Among Cruz supporters, it appears to be a widely held belief that someone at Fiola tipped off protesters to the senator's presence. Trabocchi doesn't know - yet - who provided the intel to protesters, but he has hired an investigator to seek answers. Here's what he knows now: An assistant for Cruz apparently made the reservation for the couple. Following the standard protocol for Fiola, managers let the front-of-the-house staff know about the VIP diners that evening, including the Cruzes. About an hour before the senator and his wife arrived, six protesters took seats at the bar, "acting just like customers," Trabocchi said. "The moment the senator walked in, their intention was clear," he continued. "Six more of them entered the restaurant quickly from the front and they went up to the face of the senator, which we didn't allow." In addition to engaging the investigator, the Trabocchis have hired a security guard for Fiola. What's more, they're investing more in staff training to try to de-escalate these kinds of situations in the future. Though Trabocchi declined to say how much money he has spent in the aftermath of Cruz' visit, he calls it "substantial." He said it's necessary to be ready for the next group of protesters. It seems a wise investment. Dining disruptions have clearly become a tool for progressives looking to express their frustration at the Trump administration and its supporters, including Cruz: In June, protesters confronted Kirstjen Nielsen, the Homeland Security secretary, as she tried to dine at MXDC Cocina Mexicana. Shortly after, a diner at Espita Mezcaleria called Stephen Miller a "real-life fascist" while the White House senior adviser tried to eat at the trendy Mexican restaurant in Shaw. One of the left-wing groups apparently responsible for the Fiola disruption issued a statement on Facebook, saying, in effect, get ready for more of the same: "This is a message to Ted Cruz, Brett M. Kavanaugh, Donald Trump and the rest of the racist, sexist, transphobic, and homophobic right-wing scum: You are not safe. We will find you. We will expose you. We will take from you the peace you have taken from so many others," the statement read. Trabocchi said such a charged political atmosphere places more responsibilities on restaurateurs. One of the keys for staff, the chef said, is to remain calm in the face of angry protesters; don't react and escalate the situation. "I don't think it's a requirement of any of the servers . . . to have a confrontation and act like a SWAT team," Trabocchi said. "There is no restaurant that is ready for this. It's a completely new situation, and it's unfair to expect that a staff working at a restaurant will expose themselves to a physical danger or risk." A representative for Cruz did not respond to a request for comment, but Trabocchi said the senator "was happy about the way we handled the situation, and he thanked the team when he left." STAMFORD Outside Sarah Sweenys classroom at Newfield Elementary School is a sign that reads throw kindness like confetti. Its a nice message to see when you come into the room, she said. Its important to be kind to each other, to be kind to the kids. Its really what makes things a pleasant place to be and what you want to be greeted by. Like many of her incoming students on Thursday, this is Sweenys first year in the citys school system. A Stamford native and graduate of the local Catholic schools, Sweeny brings a special kindness to her classroom as a teacher for kindergartners on the autism spectrum. The 29-year-old understands what its like living with special needs, thanks to her late brother C.J., who had down syndrome. When you have a family member, you can bring something personal to this career, she said. You can understand it from both perspectives. You want to treat these children as your family member was treated or as you would treat your own family member. C.J., who died at age 14 while Sweeny was a freshman at UConn, was the inspiration to focus on special education, she said. Her late brother went through Stamford Public Schools, attending Stillmeadow Elementary and Scofield Magnet Middle School and as his big sister, Sweeny was moved by the way the community helped him. Having a sibling with special needs, it made me always want to give back to that community, she said. He had a wonderful community of people, whether it was in the schools or at our summer camp, at our church. There were always people who were there to help us, to help him, to help me and I just always knew I wanted to be a part of that community. Sweeny went to the University of Connecticut and got a bachelors in communication disorders before attending Central Connecticut State University and getting a masters in special education. She spent two-and-a-half years working with students with autism in Waterbury before moving home to Stamford this year. Her classroom is filled with little things to appeal to her students, such as bright colors, shaving cream for sensory play and sensory bins filled with different seasonal objects. Its a classroom that emphasizes play and the space to learn. For me, the most rewarding things are really the little things, Sweeny said. It can be something as simple as they zip their coat for the first time or they have a three-word sentence. I celebrate those tiny little things that just happen during the day that you wouldnt normally think are such a big deal but for this group of children, its a huge deal. At the end of the day, thats what makes it all worth it to me. The big things are exciting too, but its the little things that I love to see. erin.kayata@stamfordadvocate.com; (203) 964-2265; @erin_kayata Former secretary of state Hillary Clinton drew a comparison Tuesday between the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and Russian efforts to influence the 2016 election, saying that in both cases, a foreign power had attacked the United States, but that in the latter, the president had "done nothing." Clinton, the 2016 Democratic presidential nominee, also said she thinks Russian interference and other factors "certainly altered the outcome" in several parts of the country during the last campaign. She criticized President Donald Trump's response to last year's violence in Charlottesville, saying he "has thrown his lot in" with white nationalists. Clinton made the remarks during a wide-ranging interview at the Atlantic Festival in Washington. The U.S. intelligence community has concluded Russia interfered in the 2016 election with the goal of boosting Trump's campaign. The interference included hacking that targeted the Democratic National Committee and the emails of former Clinton campaign chairman John Podesta as well as the use of fake social media accounts to spread false information. The hacked emails were allegedly transferred to the anti-secrecy organization WikiLeaks. Asked Tuesday by Atlantic editor in chief Jeffrey Goldberg whether she believed Russia had stolen the election from her, Clinton responded by pointing to a number of factors. "I believe that the combination of the Russian campaign, the WikiLeaks being the cutout for Russian stolen information, the role that Cambridge Analytica and other organizations like that played in connection with the Republican apparatus, the [Republican] National Committee and other allies and the Trump campaign certainly altered the outcome in enough places that we have to ask, 'What really happened?' " she replied. Cambridge Analytica has come under criticism for its use of personal Facebook data in elections, but the political consultancy's influence on the 2016 campaign remains unclear. Clinton told Goldberg that while she did not want to look backward, "what we know now is incredibly troubling." She added 2016 was the first time "that we have been attacked by a foreign power and have done nothing." "It would be like - I can't even imagine - I mean, it's a horrible example, but after 9/11, [if] George W. Bush said, 'Well, I don't have time to meet. I don't have time to worry about this. It was terrible. We feel sorry about it. We'll rebuild New York and the Pentagon, but we're not going to worry about it.' Well at a certain point, that's what this is turning into. The evidence continues to accumulate," Clinton said. Clinton has previously been critical of Trump's mixed messages on Russia's election interference and his praise for Russian President Vladimir Putin, although Tuesday appeared to be the first time she made a comparison to the Sept. 11 attacks. Clinton was also asked whether she thinks Trump is a racist. At first, she declined to answer directly but said the president had aligned himself with racist groups and individuals. "I think he has thrown his lot in with many people and groups whose stated objective is white nationalism, white supremacy," Clinton said. "I mean, how could you explain what he did and why after Charlottesville?" She noted that after the Sept. 11 attacks, President George W. Bush visited a mosque to tell American Muslims, "We're not at war with you." "But that's not what we got after Charlottesville [Virginia]," Clinton said. "And that remains one of the most troubling episodes in this presidency." Moments later, Clinton went on to say Trump "has been racist; he's been sexist; he's been Islamophobic; he has been anti-LGBTQ; I mean, there's a long list." "He has a view of America that is incredibly constricted, and he talks to that America," she said. "He talks to them all the time. And it's by no means a majority, as we know, but it is a very hard core who are responding to him and supporting him for a variety of reasons." BRUSSELS - The U.S. ambassador to NATO set off alarm bells Tuesday when she suggested that the United States might "take out" Russian missiles that U.S. officials say violate a landmark arms control treaty. Although Ambassador Kay Bailey Hutchison's comments were somewhat ambiguous, arms control experts said they could be interpreted to mean a preemptive strike against Russian missiles. Such a move could lead to nuclear war. Only after the comments drew a furious response from the Russian Foreign Ministry did Hutchison clarify on Twitter that she "was not talking about preemptively striking Russia." But the damage was already done. "The impression is that people making such claims are unaware of the degree of their responsibility and the danger of aggressive rhetoric," Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters, the Interfax news agency reported. "Who authorized this dame to make such allegations? The American people? Do ordinary Americans know that they are paying out of their pockets for so-called diplomats who behave so aggressively and destructively?" Russia denies violating the treaty. Asked during a news conference at NATO headquarters in Brussels what the United States might do about a new class of Russian missiles that appear to violate the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, Hutchinson said, "The countermeasures would be to take out the missiles that are in development by Russia in violation of the treaty." Before Hutchison clarified her position, more than nine hours after she made her initial remarks, it was unclear whether she meant that the United States would target Russia's banned missile installations if Moscow doesn't come back into compliance with the treaty, or whether she was warning that the United States would enhance its missile defenses to take out any banned missiles Russia decided to launch at U.S. or allied targets. The United States currently has limited ability to defend against cruise missile threats. "The question was what would you do if this continues to a point where we know that they are capable of delivering" the banned missiles, Hutchison said. "And at that point we would then be looking at a capability to take out a missile that could hit any of our countries in Europe and hit America in Alaska." The treaty, which the United States and the Soviet Union signed in 1987, prohibits the production and deployment of nuclear and conventional missiles that fly from 500 to 5,500 kilometers. It applies to ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles. NATO defense ministers plan to address the alleged Russian violations at a Brussels meeting on Wednesday and Thursday. Hutchison, a former Republican senator from Texas, has been President Donald Trump's ambassador to NATO for just over a year. "She does threaten preemption. She just didn't mean it," said Jeffrey Lewis, an arms control scholar at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. "Welcome to NATO! You have one job: to not start nuclear war with Russia," he joked. "As an expert, I am used to politicians, including politicians who have been appointed as ambassadors, badly mangling simple things. So my default assumption was that she was badly mangling pretty common talking points." Hutchison's comments set off a flurry of anxiety on Twitter, where arms control experts speculated about what she meant. Several pointed out that taking "countermeasures" against undeployed missiles that are still in development by definition would be a preemptive strike. Russia has long feared that U.S. missile shields could be used covertly to preemptively target the man who controls the Russian nuclear arsenal - Russian President Vladimir Putin. Although U.S. officials have long denied that is the purpose of their missile defense efforts, Hutchison's comments fed directly into the Russian concerns. Zakharova said that Russian military experts were preparing a more technical response to Hutchison. Russia denies violating the treaty. During the final years of the Obama administration, the State Department regularly stated that Russia was violating the treaty but stopped short of specifying which specific Russian weapon American diplomats believed was going against the pact. Last year, Air Force Gen. Paul Selva, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Russia had violated the treaty's "spirit and intent" by deploying a ground-based cruise missile. Russia has long accused the United States of violating the treaty with its Aegis Ashore missile defense installations in Romania and a similar installation still in the works in Poland, claiming that those platforms could launch Tomahawk cruise missiles in violation of the treaty. The United States has denied those accusations, saying the system launches only SM-3 interceptor missiles not covered by the pact. Efforts by U.S. diplomats to bring Russia back into compliance with the treaty, including meetings between American and Russian officials as part of the pact's enforcement mechanism, have so far come up short. Under direction from Congress, the Pentagon has begun drawing up plans for a banned missile that the United States could deploy quickly if the treaty formally falls apart, an effort to pressure Russia. The treaty bans only production, testing and use of intermediate-range missiles; research and development isn't prohibited. The dispute over the INF Treaty has also prompted the U.S. military to consider stepping up defenses against cruise missile threats from Russia in Europe. The Pentagon had drawn up a draft of the Trump administration's new missile defense policy early this year, but top officials sent it back to the drawing board after demanding that it more thoroughly address the Russian cruise missile threat in Europe. One possible step would be to stand up a better sensor network so the United States can track any Russian cruise missiles from the moment of their launch at a European target. The Pentagon is also looking at technologies that could be put in place to try to shoot missiles down if they are heading toward specific targets - an effort that Hutchison might have been referencing in her remarks. "This treaty is in danger because of Russia's actions," NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters. "All allies agree that the most plausible assessment would be that Russia is in violation of the treaty. It is therefore urgent that Russia addresses these concerns in a substantial and transparent manner." WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump's closest congressional allies said Wednesday that a four-hour interview with former FBI general counsel James Baker had "fundamentally changed" their understanding of the Justice Department's Russia investigation, confirming and furthering their previous convictions that federal law enforcement agencies were biased in their scrutiny of Trump's campaign. Reps. Mark Meadows, R-N.C., and Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, both leaders in the conservative House Freedom Caucus, called the closed-door meeting the "most informative" interview they have had in the House Judiciary and Oversight and Government Reform committees' nearly year-long probe into the FBI's investigations of the Trump campaign's alleged Russia ties and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server. Democrats have repeatedly argued that the Republicans' aim is to undermine and discredit the FBI and Justice Department, as well as Special Counsel Robert Mueller's ongoing probe of Russian interference in the 2016 election. They have also criticized the probe's format of conducting private interviews, saying that doing so allows Republicans to misrepresent witnesses' testimony. Jordan told reporters that Baker informed them of a "completely new" and "explosive" source who provided information "directly" to the FBI "during the time that the DOJ and the FBI were putting together" an application to surveil former Trump campaign adviser Carter Page. He offered no details about the source, or the information the source provided to the bureau, beyond saying it was "related to the whole Russia investigation." Baker declined to comment to reporters as he departed the interview. The FBI's press office did not immediately respond to a request to comment on Jordan's characterization of Baker's testimony. Meadows and Jordan have been among Trump's most dogged defenders as the president seeks to discredit federal law enforcement's Russia investigations, which Trump has labeled a "witch hunt." Earlier this year, Meadows and Jordan led a movement to impeach Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein for refusing to turn over documents they believed would expose the Mueller investigation's "rotten" foundations, as Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., has described it. Republican Party leaders' support for their efforts has ebbed and flowed. Jordan hinted that Baker's testimony may have bolstered their complaint that the FBI failed to include in its surveillance application evidence that would have steered suspicion away from Page. It "sheds even more light on just how wrong this whole idea, when they took this dossier to the secret court and did what they did," he said. The dossier - a collection of intelligence detailing Trump's alleged personal and business ties to Russia - has also been a chief focus of GOP lawmakers who say it was the source of the FBI's entire investigation. The bureau denies that charge, which has also been undercut by reports that Trump campaign aide George Papadopoulos told Australia's ambassador to Britain that the Russians had dirt on Clinton months prior. A spokesman for the House Judiciary Committee Democrats did not immediately respond to a request to comment on Jordan's characterization of Baker's testimony. Only a handful of lawmakers attended Wednesday's hearing, as the House is not currently in session. In recent weeks, the panel has interviewed individuals they believe are linked to the dossier's production and dissemination throughout the intelligence and federal law enforcement communities, including Bruce Ohr, the Justice Department official who spoke with the dossier's author on several occasions. Later this month, they plants interview Ohr's wife, Nellie Ohr, who briefly worked as a contractor for Fusion GPS when the research firm was involved with Steele. Fusion GPS founder Glenn Simpson has declined an invitation to meet with the panel. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Rep. Bob Goodlatte, R-Va., has since subpoenaed Simpson for a deposition. Meadows and Jordan suggested Baker's interview could be the most important for them as they prepare to speak with Rosenstein, to whom they plan to pose many of the same questions they asked of Baker about the FBI's application to surveil Page. Lawmakers also want to talk to Rosenstein about a New York Times report that he suggested recording Trump and potentially removing him from office. Rosenstein has denied he said those things, though he offered to resign in the wake of the report's publication. Baker is expected to return to Capitol Hill to finish his interview, which was cut short because of a scheduling conflict, Meadows and Jordan said. They described him as a "cooperative" witness. Baker left the FBI in the spring, and now works at the Brookings Institution. He was a close associate of former FBI Director James Comey, on at least one occasion receiving a memo Comey drafted following a meeting with Trump. Baker was also linked to the members of Comey's inner circle, includingformer FBI deputy director Andrew McCabe, who wrote memos detailing Rosenstein's alleged suggestion of wiring the president; and former FBI counterintelligence official Peter Strzok and former FBI lawyer Lisa Page, who exchanged anti-Trump text messages. McCabe, Strzok and Page have left the bureau amid questions of their ethics and conduct. Baker was caught up in a leak probe last year surrounding news reports about surveillance techniques of an email provider that appeared to stem from a dispute between the FBI and National Security Agency. He wasaccused by Republicans, in a report published by Politico, of disclosing information about the Trump-Russia dossier to Mother Jones, a left-leaning media outlet. David Corn, the author of that story, has denied that Baker was his source. Baker was never charged with wrongdoing, but he was reassigned when FBI Director Christopher Wray took office. He left the bureau after a decades-long career this spring, and now works at the Brookings Institution think tank. Win or lose, Rep. Beto O'Rourke, D-Texas, has some serious cajones. He is running against Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and running strongly, in a state where guns are regarded by many as a birthright - and he is advocating not just minor gun controls but a complete ban on the sale of semiautomatic assault rifles such as the AR-15. His sensible stance has been predictably attacked by Texas Republicans, who will use it to paint him as out of step with "Texas values." There is, on the surface, nothing surprising about the GOP tactics, since Republicans have long been known as the gun-rights party. But it wasn't always thus. Republicans made the same transition on gun control as on environmentalism, civil rights, immigration, taxes and other issues - from moderate conservatism to far-right fanaticism. Therein lies a tragedy for the Republican Party - and for the republic. The National Firearms Act of 1934, which imposed stringent regulations and taxes on the sale of machine guns, automatic weapons, and sawed-off shotguns and rifles, was so uncontroversial that it was passed by voice vote in both the House and Senate. The NRA, which in those days was concerned primarily with improving marksmanship, even supported the legislation. The Gun Control Act of 1968, passed after the assassinations of Robert F. Kennedy and the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., further toughened regulation of the gun industry. It passed with roughly 70 percent support in both houses, and Republicans and Democrats backed it equally. By the 1990s, following the NRA's transformation into a powerful gun lobby, opposition to gun control had become an article of Republican faith. But there was still some room for dissent. Former president Ronald Reagan's support ensured passage in 1993 of the Brady Law, which imposed a five-day waiting period on the sale of handguns by licensed dealers. It was named after his press secretary, Jim Brady, who had been gravely wounded with a cheap handgun known as a Saturday Night Special in the 1981 attempt on Reagan's life. Because of the Gipper's involvement, 31 percent of House Republicans and 36 percent of Senate Republicans supported the bill. Reagan's support, even in retirement, also helped to pass a ban on the sale of assault weapons in 1994. But this time only 26 percent of House Republicans and 16 percent of Senate Republicans voted aye. That small gun-control caucus was composed of moderates, such as Rep. Robert Michel, R-Ill., and Sen. Bob Packwood, R-Ore., who were rapidly disappearing from GOP ranks. By the time the assault-rifle ban expired in 2004, congressional Republicans were determined to let it expire - and they did. President George W. Bush expressed willingness to sign a renewal but did not actively lobby for it. No federal legislation toughening gun laws has been passed since 1994, largely because the GOP has become a wholly owned subsidiary of the gun lobby. Democrats, for their part, have varied in their enthusiasm for gun control; their support waned after the passage of the assault-weapons ban was blamed for costing them control of Congress in 1994. The Republican Party orthodoxy has become that anyone - no matter how demented or dangerous - who wants a military-grade weapon should be entitled to one. (The only real difference between an AR-15 and a military-issued M-4 or M-16 is that the latter can fire in "burst" mode, i.e., three shots per trigger pull, but in practice soldiers are taught to use semiautomatic mode, i.e., one shot per trigger pull.) That obstinate attachment to weapons of war has survived one mass shooting after another: Santa Fe, Texas, 2018 (10 dead); Parkland, Florida, 2018 (17 dead); Sutherland Springs, Texas, 2017 (25 dead); Las Vegas, 2017 (58 dead); Orlando, Florida, 2016 (49 dead); San Bernardino, California, 2015 (14 killed); Newtown, Connecticut, 2012 (27 dead). It is no mere coincidence that so many mass shootings have occurred since the assault weapons ban expired, because so many of the shooters used assault weapons. Economist Mark Gius of Quinnipiac University found that the federal assault weapons ban had little impact on the overall U.S. murder rate, which has been declining for years but is still much higher than in other Western countries. It did, however, have a "statistically significant" effect on the number of school shooting victims. "When the assault weapons ban, state or federal, was in effect, the number of school shooting victims was 54.4 percent less than (when it was not in effect)," he writes. A federal assault weapons ban would be even more beneficial if, unlike the 1994 legislation, it were not riddled with loopholes and if, as in Australia, it included a provision forcing existing gun owners to turn in their assault rifles. But on gun control, as on so many other issues, Republicans today are immune to reason and at odds with their own history of moderation, because they regard an absolutist position as a political necessity. If O'Rourke manages to win - improbable but not impossible - his success could call that destructive assumption into question. The best bang for your buck! This option enables you to purchase online 24/7 access and receive the Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday print edition at no additional cost * Print edition only available in our carrier delivery area. Allow up to 72 hours for delivery of your print edition to begin. Print edition not available for Day Pass option. Today Google has introduced some blue into its device lineup. We're talking about a new color version for its very successful Home Mini smart speaker, the entry level option with Google Assistant built-in. The new hue is called Aqua, and it's blue-ish for sure. Like all Google Home Mini colors, it's more understated than shouty, but it will definitely find its fit in less rooms than the Chalk and Charcoal options which are gray variations. The Aqua Google Home Mini is identical to the other hues aside from its paint job. It's even made from the same fabric. It's the first new color the company has added to the roster since the Mini was launched last year. The new smart speaker will be available from the Google Store and Walmart "later this month". Source After two years in Beta mode, Google is finally releasing Voice Access on the Play Store. The app enables hands-free usage of your smartphone and is mostly designed for people with disabilities who have a hard time to do simple stuff like take a picture or send a text, but is freely downloadable for everyone. The service allows you to navigate through apps, compose and edit text, and talk to Google Assistant. It offers a deeper integration with the OS and the control of apps, allowing you to tap buttons with the application itself. You can say Scroll forward or Tap Go Back and the phone will immediately do it. Voice Access also gives numbers to all clickable options, when it cannot recognize all of them. You can select a text field, go to the home screen, scroll down the quick settings menu, hold the Home key for Google Assistant. It can also delete and undo lines and words while writing. The service is currently available only in English, but Google promises additional language support coming in the future. Source Huawei's subbrand Honor introduced the 8X a month ago in China, and the phone is now ready to begin its global rollout. Yesterday launches took place in Dubai and Madrid, while the Central and Eastern Europe event is in Prague, Czech Republic, on October 11. According to the global page of the Honor Store, India will see the device on October 16 after an event in New Delhi. Other launch dates for different countries include October 9 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, October 10 in Moscow, Russia, and October 24 in Bangkok, Thailand. The info on the landing page does not mention the even larger 8X Max, which might skip its international launch. The Honor 8X has a Kirin 710 chipset with 4/6 GB RAM options and a massive 6.5 screen with a notch. It is already available in Spain and France for as low as 249 and in the following days is expected to arrive in Germany, Italy, and other European countries for good measure. Source Nokia's new phone, which is supposed to be announced tomorrow or during its second event for the month on October 11, has just leaked in full. We have a strong feeling that the Nokia 7.1 is going to be in the spotlight on at least one of the two dates and ahead of the launch, some juicy details popped up including pricing, availability and key specs garnished with revealing renders. Right off the bat, we see that the Nokia 7.1 will come with a notch, which is rather disappointing as the Nokia 7.1 Plus was believed to be the one carrying the infamous screen cutout. The report also claims that the handset has passed FCC's certification process and could potentially arrive to the Canadian and US market. As far as hardware is concerned, the Nokia 7.1 will feature a 5.84-inch IPS LCD with trendy 19:9 aspect ratio and 1080 x 2244 resolution further confirming the existence of the notch. A Snapdragon 636 will be driving all those pixels while memory configurations are going to be 3GB/32GB and 4GB/64GB, both with microSD card support. Nokia 7.1 press renders The back of the device will sport a dual camera setup with Zeiss optics - 12MP + 5MP. The report reads glass back design, aluminum side frame and a thickness under 8mm. The Nokia 7.1 will allegedly be released to the European market on October 22 and will be priced at 349 for the basic configuration and 400 for the 4GB/64GB version. Source Haiti - FLASH : Rumor of preparation of a Coup ? Louis Jodel Chamblain, one of the founders of the former paramilitary organization "Revolutionary Front Armed for the Progress of Haiti" (FRAPH) created in 1991 under the military dictatorship of Raoul Cedras, having contributed to the fall of Jean-Bertrand Aristide in 2004, has been convoned by the Government Commissioner Ocnam Clame Dameus, following his public statements concerning the preparation of a coup against the ruling power. Recall that Monday on the air of a radio of the capital, Louis Jodel Chamblain had said that a group of armed individuals were preparing to overthrow in the coming days President Jovenel Moise and his Government, refusing despite the insistence of the animator, to reveal the identity of the members of this plot. A troubling statement that caused less than 24 hours later, the reaction of Commissioner Dameus who convocation of Louis Jodel Chamblain to come to explain to the prosecution Friday, October 5 from 1:30 pm on his statements. Statements that have been ignored so far, if they are well-founded, whether they are "intoxicants", manipulative or simply rumor-based, but which can not be dismissed without scrutiny in the context current politic. TB / HaitiLibre Published on 2018/10/02 | Source On the latest episodes of the MBC drama "Bad Papa", Yoo Ji-cheol (Jang Hyuk) went to meet Lee Min-woo (Ha Joon). Advertisement Yoo Ji-cheol was angry that Choi Seon-joo (Son Yeo-eun) managed Yoo Yeong-seon's (Sin Eun-soo) settlement with the help of Lee Min-woo. Yoo Ji-cheol went to meet Kim Yong-dae (Lee David) who ran a fight gambling house to get 10 million won. Kim Yong-dae had tried to scout Yoo Ji-cheol once before. Yoo Ji-cheol applied for a part time gig at a clinical trial and got his hands on some pills that made him much stronger. Later he put on a mask to be in a fight. Kim Yong-dae said he could make 10 million if he won. Yoo Ji-cheol fell to the floor when his opponent attacked. When the time neared, he took the pills and completely defeated his opponent. He won 10 million won. Yoo Ji-cheol went to pay Min-woo the money. Min-woo thought Yoo Ji-cheol had played a trick, but Yoo Ji-cheol just glared at him. Choi Seon-joo agreed to write a biography on Yoo Ji-cheol for 30 million won. However, Yoo Ji-cheol didn't like her getting involved with Lee Min-woo. An opportunity approached Yoo Ji-cheol. Joo Gook-seong (Jung Man-sik) was watching the fight and offered him 500 million won in cash for fighting 7 times. Havre Police Department Joshua Kay Blatter of Havre, 28, was arrested at the police station Tuesday at 8:04 a.m. on a charge of criminal contempt related to a 24/7 Sobriety Program violation. -- Brooke Dawn White Mountain of Havre, 42, was arrested on a charge of obstructing a peace officer or other public servant after a caller at a First Street West business asked to talked to an officer about some property Tuesday at 12:46 p.m. -- Someone stopped at the police station Tuesday at 3:26 p.m. to turn in a black and white wallet and a set of keys. -- Claudine Chiefstick of Dodson, 54, and Robert Henry Stump III of Box Elder, 32, were each arrested on a charge of disorderly conduct after a caller on 10th Avenue reported a woman on their property again Tuesday at 6:16 p.m. -- A caller at a First Street establishment reported at 12:38 a.m. today that a bike had been stolen within the past hour. -- Heather Lena Marie Lamere of Havre, 24, was arrested on a disorderly conduct charge after a Havre area caller asked for assistance for an intoxicated woman at 4:45 a.m. today. Hill County Sheriff's Office Daeton Keeler of Havre, 19, was arrested on a theft charge after a caller at a U.S. Highway 2 West business reported an employee theft Tuesday at 8:19 a.m. -- A caller on Wildhorse Road reported a check fraud at 10:04 a.m. Tuesday. -- A Rudyard area caller asked Tuesday at 10:13 a.m. to speak with an officer about an incident in the 1970s. -- Rogerina Emma Sutherland of Box Elder, 36, was arrested at the detention center Tuesday at 2:18 p.m. on a state District Court warrant. -- Deputies served warrants at the detention center Tuesday at 4:41 p.m. and 5:05 p.m., but no details were provided. -- A caller at a North Havre establishment asked for assistance Tuesday at 11:13 p.m. Havre Fire Department Emergency medical personnel responded to a call early this morning. -- Firefighters responded to a call at 7:59 p.m. Tuesday on the 3100 Block of Ninth Street East, but no one was made available to provide details by print deadline. Havre Animal Shelter The shelter this morning held a 26-week-old kitten, two medium-hair cats and a Himalayan cat of unknown gender, an 8-month-old male short-hair kitten, a female 11-week-old medium-hair kitten, two female medium-hair cats, two 17-week-old male medium-hair kittens, a male short-hair cat and a 7-month-old male medium-hair kitten. -- The shelter this morning also held a male German shepherd, a female pit bull-terrier-German shepherd cross, a 9-month-old female terrier, an 8-month-old female mixed-breed, a 10-month-old female mixed-breed, a 10-month-old female mountain cur and two female Australian cattle dog-blue heeler-German shepherd crosses, along with seven puppies not yet available for adoption: five male and one female 6-week-old mixed-breed puppies and a 6-week-old male pit bull terrier cross. Births A girl was born Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, to Brooke and Wesley Adams of Havre. Havre community members met in the auditorium at Havre High School to hear about new safety procedures and to have a chance to share their own concerns with the school board Tuesday evening. Havre Public Schools Superintendent Andy Carlson first introduced members of the Havre Police Department, Chief of Police Gabe Matosich and Assistant Chief of Police Jason Barkus and thanked them for their assistance. Havre schools are now moving to the Standard Response Protocol throughout the district, Carlson said because it provides consistency for students and teachers across the entire Havre school district. Our substitutes are the ones who really pointed it out to us and really brought it home, Carlson said. They said, look if Im subbing at Lincoln-McKinley, its great because I know what Lincoln-McKinley is going to do. The problem is I can go to Havre High and their program is great, too, its just its so different. I spend my entire time trying to figure out what the safety plan is at every school and I have about zero time to prepare to sub. A presentation followed showing the five symbols that will now be used to communicate to parents, students and faculty regarding safety procedures. The first was the Lockdown symbol: A picture of a lock inside a red circle. The Evacuate symbol is a picture of three children holding hands inside a green circle. The Shelter symbol is a small chevron over a person within an orange circle. The Lockout symbol is a pair of hands within a blue circle. The final symbol, Hold, is a door with a red line through it. Officer Josh Holt explained the differences between the symbols. For example, the Shelter symbol is for natural disasters like an earthquake or tornado. The Hold, or Hold in Place, symbol is for keeping the hallways clear of students for medical emergencies, Holt said. From now on, Lockdown means one thing and one thing only, Holt said, Lockdown means theres someone inside the building posing an imminent danger. An audience member asked who the main decision-maker would be for implementing the five statuses of the SRP. Carlson said that the principal at each school would be the one to make those decisions because they are the ones who are there in the moment. After the presentation of the SRP symbols, the audience was given three questions to respond to via their mobile phones. The audience just had to enter the given web address and enter the code and respond to the question and their responses would show up on the screen. Notecards and pencils were provided for people who did not have mobile phones with them. The first question was: My greatest safety concern as a parent and community member is? Some responses were, how open the campuses are, how to make the playground safe but still fun for kids, child abduction at bus stops and how to convey safety procedures for kindergarten through third graders. Carlson asked Mark Irvin, the Highland Park Early Primary School principal, to come up and address the topic of how to teach kindergarten through third-graders safety procedures. Irvin said that they go through the SRP chart with the kids right from the beginning, but that the biggest key for teaching them is the drilling process. Irvin also said they rely on their adult assistants to help because the kids are of such a young age. We talk with our kids, Irvin said. Were open and honest with them. We talk with them at a level that they can understand it. We have to make sure the vocabulary we use for them is careful. The second question was: If I was an elected official or school superintendent, my next safety steps in the district would be? Some of the responses were Nightlock system, making sure front office staff members keep track of people coming into the building and continued conversations with parents and students about safety. The Nightlock system is advertised as being a door barricade. Earlier in the evening, an audience member asked about door jams and why they werent being used in schools. I met with the attorney generals office last year, Holt said. And what it all boiled down to was: Its not up to them. We need to change the law to allow the Nightlock system. So we need to talk to our state folks that we have elected and start pushing them to get this changed. The final question was: What do we have to do as a community to become the safest school district in the country? Some of the responses were requests to continue conversations and training about school safety, clear communication between school district and parents, engage as a community, participate as an interested group for the safety of our students and school, and support for mental health. Im very worried about whats happening with the Department of Public Health and Human services because its going to impact right away our mental health, Carlson said. Those resources and those people are suffering some of the largest cuts, and I fully believe thats going to go on the backs of the schools and we dont have the resources or people to address the needs that are there. Carlson commended law enforcement agencies for all the help that they have provided to the schools and staff. Carlson said that he would like to do another safety forum in the future and encouraged parents to go and tell their friends about what they heard. During a question and answer session at the end of the presentation, an audience member asked a question about the protocol for fire alarms. The example she gave came from an incident in which an active shooter pulled the fire alarm and shot at the students as they were running out. Typically, the way you hear it is youre going to go into a lockdown and then youre going to hear a fire alarm, Carlson said, adding that he recently saw a demonstration of this at a school Students are taught that lockdown trumps everything, Carlson said. Some parents stuck around afterward to either talk amongst themselves or to ask further questions. I appreciated being here and being a part of this important conversation, said community member Angie Olsen. I thought it was a great opportunity to share our thoughts and opinions and hear what the district is doing currently to help keep our students safe. Olsen said she does feel at ease after attending the meeting, and is grateful that they have the Standard Response Protocols now. I feel this was just a good way to start the conversation. Maybe they dont have all the answers yet, but I trust theyre going to work towards those things, Olsen said. I do feel like we were heard tonight at least. Sunnyside Intermediate School Principal Carmen Lunak said the safety procedures were outstanding and that every building has a uniform process is really critical. She said she felt that the safety meeting was a big start for the schools to connect with the community to work together for the best interest for the students. Lunak also said that she believes more people will start to turn out for the safety forums and that this was a good start. BUFFALO, N.Y. Early diagnosis of cancer greatly improves the odds of successful treatment. Yet many people, especially in developing countries, lack access to facilities to detect the disease. To address this issue, a University at Buffalo-led research team is creating a new cancer-spotting tool that health care providers could eventually use in areas that lack hospitals, clinics and other treatment centers. The tool described in a pair of research papers published in IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics (Aug. 17) and ACS Sensors (July 18) is based upon a unique gold biosensor the research team created. When paired with a computer or smartphone and other inexpensive tools, the system is capable of spotting cancer biomarkers from a blood sample. Smartphones and computers are increasingly common in places where basic health care is not. Our system takes advantage of that. Weve designed a simple yet effective cancer screening system that we believe can eventually be deployed to areas that need it most, says Qiaoqiang Gan, PhD, associate professor of electrical engineering in UBs School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and a co-lead author of the studies. Preliminary tests show our system is about as effective as the diagnostic tests that many hospitals use. Were hoping to refine the system and get it into the hands of people who need it the most, because the earlier we detect cancer, the better the treatment outcomes are, says Yun Wu, PhD, assistant professor of biomedical engineering at UB, also a co-lead author of the studies. The Department of Biomedical Engineering is a joint program of the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at UB, and the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. To test the system, researchers mounted the gold biosensor to a glass slide. They then placed blood samples from lung cancer patients on top of the biosensor. Next, they shined a LED light onto the sample and biosensor. The blood contains tiny organic particles called exosomes, which contain lung cancer biomarkers. These biomarkers bind to the biosensor and cause the intensity of the light to change. By measuring the change of the light intensity before and after applying the blood sample, researchers can detect the biomarkers. This type of sensing is known as surface plasmon resonance, or SPR sensing. In experiments with a smartphone, researchers mounted the biosensor to the phones camera. The system provided real-time imaging of exosomes containing epidermal growth factor receptor (EFGR), a protein commonly found in non-small cell lung cancer patients that can be used as a biomarker for screening and early detection. The system was also capable of detecting another biomarker called programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), which is a protein that can stop the immune system from attacking cancer cells. Doctors measure PD-L1 levels in lung cancer patients to assess the effectiveness of a checkpoint inhibitor treatment, a new type of immunotherapy. Overall results show the system is comparable in sensing accuracy to common cancer diagnostic tests, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). There are several advantages to the new system. Perhaps most helpful, researchers say, is the systems small size, its ease of operation and its relatively low fabrication cost compared to existing diagnostic tools that health care providers use. The systems portability makes it ideal for areas that lack access to health care services, they say. Additional authors of the papers include Josep Jornet, PhD, assistant professor of electrical engineering at UBs School of Engineering and Applied Sciences; Mary Reid, MSPH, PhD, professor of oncology at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Institute and a research associate professor in UBs School of Public Health and Health Professions; Xiandong Gu, PhD, professor of electrical engineering at Fudan University in China; as well as additional researchers from UB and Roswell. The research was supported by the U.S. National Science Foundations Division of Industrial Innovation and Partnerships and the U.S. National Institutes of Health. The survey of 864 Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia members found that over nine months, 58 (6.7 per cent) reported anaphylactic reactions to a packaged food where the suspected allergen was not a listed ingredient. Of the 58, five (8.6 per cent) said there was no Precautionary Allergen Label (PAL), 31 (53.5 per cent) said there was a PAL but it didnt specify the suspected trigger food, and 22 (38 per cent) said there was a PAL that did list it. Suspected trigger/s were peanuts (19), other tree nuts (11), cashews (8), milk (9), eggs (5) walnuts (3), sesame seeds (2) and prawns (1). Symptoms included difficult/noisy breathing, tongue swelling, throat swelling/tightness, difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice, chest tightness and shortness of breath, wheeze or persistent cough, persistent dizziness and/or collapse, pale and floppy as part of a generalised allergic reaction (in young children only). Published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice, the study involved the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute (MCRI), the University of Melbourne, Victoria University, Royal Childrens Hospital and the University of Sydney. The results were similar to an earlier study based on Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy health professional reports. That study was published in the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health in January. Potential allergens must be declared on Australian food labels when they are present as ingredients or as components of food additives or processing aids. PAL is voluntary and uses statements such as may contain traces or may be present. Lead researcher and Melbourne School of Population and Global Health Allergy and Lung Health Unit postdoctoral research fellow Giovanni Zurzolo is concerned that an allergen specific PAL was missing in more than half the anaphylaxis examples. Dr Zurzolo said current industry PAL practice failed to consistently provide safe food choices for those with allergies, who still had to take risks. There is no reliable labelling system that protects consumers with food allergy from anaphylaxis, he said. The studys senior author, MCRI and University of Melbourne Professor Katie Allen, said anaphylaxis was a serious health issue. This research shows how important accurate food labelling is, she said. These reactions can be life-threatening. The study found Government regulation and improved labelling was needed to standardise the PAL system and, in doing so, improve the quality of life for consumers with food allergies. As most consumers [who] experience a reaction do not often report the incident, it is likely this represents an underestimation of true prevalence, the researchers found. We believe government regulation is required to aid in the standardisation of PAL. Further to this, we advise clinicians to caution consumers about the possibility of allergic reactions to packaged foods, in particular high risk foods such as chocolate, ice-cream, sweets/candy and baked products. Sometimes, I fear, we miss the truth about life in the early church simply because we do not intentionally listen to what the letters of Paul and the book of Acts tell us about that life. We reach for a passage that seems like a clear propositional command, then apply that command to all churches and context without seeing how the early church actually functioned. We fail to examine whether that command was for a unique situation or a specific congregation. As we examine the value of women to the work of God in the early church, we must resist making contextual principles into blanket commands. We must examine the roles women actually performed at the request of or with the blessing of the apostolic leaders before deciding on limiting what any group does. Todays reflection is one post among twelve.[NOTE1] Each of these reflections seeks to hear how God, along with his appointed leaders, valued women in the life of Israel and the community of Jesus. The apostle Paul and his band of missionaries were stuck. He didnt know where to go to plant churches next after being forbidden to enter Asia or Bithynia. Then, God intervened. He sent Paul the call to enter Macedonia. Paul and his small band of disciple-makers determined that God had called them into what we now call Europe: Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them (Acts 16:6-10). These early believers from Macedonia became very precious to Paul. A cursory reading of Philippians points us to this truth. In addition, Pauls love for the Thessalonians shines through in his heart-felt language to them (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3; 2:7-8, 11-12). Pauls special relationship with these churches in Macedonia was reflected in their support of him financially (Philippians 4:15), something Paul did not allow other churches to do. When Paul later challenged the Corinthians to fulfill their generous commitments to support the impoverished churches in Jerusalem, he pointed them to the Macedonian churches as an example of sacrificial giving in the face of suffering (2 Corinthians 8:1-7; Romans 15:26-27). Later, the great missionary found ways to visit these Macedonian churches whenever possible (Acts 19:21-2; 20:1-3; 1 Corinthians 16:5; 2 Corinthians 1:16; 2:13) and use their congregational representatives in his work to bless the fellowship of believers (Acts 27:2). Pauls close relationships with Macedonian Christians is also shown in another key way. Gods call for Paul and his team to enter Macedonia re-opened their eyes to a ministry component central to Jesus ministry. This principle would be essential to the apostles ministry in Macedonia, and beyond. Paul relied upon the conversion, vitality, giftedness, and support of respected, talented, and godly women. In other words, the importance of women to the work and message of Jesus didn't end with their support of Jesus or their promise of Joel fulfilled at Pentecost. Jesus promise to Mary about playing a role as one of his rabbinic students didnt end with his return to the Father. As the message of Jesus moved into Macedonia a place where women appeared to have more freedom than in other parts of the Roman Empire we see women play increasingly vital roles in evangelism, participation in the life of the church, financial support of the churches ministries and ministers, and leadership. The story of Paul's early work in Europe begins with a group of women gathered at the Jewish place of prayer in Philippi. Lydia, a respected merchant in Philippi, and her household came to Christ. Lydia provided her house for the missionaries to use as a base of their ministry as well as the place for the new church to meet (Acts 16:1-15, 40). In Philippi, Paul later freed a woman from a demonic spirit that bound her. This liberation also freed her from the men who "owned" her and exploited her demonized condition for financial profit. This dual liberation created such a stir that the team was thrown in jail. However, Gods intervention opened the door for Paul and Silas to lead the jailer and his family to Christ, even though it ended up pushing them out of Philippi on to Thessalonica (Acts 16:16-40). Nevertheless, as Luke tells us the story of the gospel penetrating into Macedonia, women provided the vital impetus for the planting and growth of what were probably several house churches in Philippi. During that ministry in Philippi, two women, Euodia and Syntyche, had worked side-by-side with Paul sharing the Gospel (Philippians 4:2-3). Their work was similar to the roles Pauls male coworkers had in other places.[NOTE2] In addition to the terms Paul used to address these women, Paul gave several indications that these women were so important to the life of the church that their disagreement with each other was at the heart of the church division Paul had addressed earlier in his letter (Philippians 2:1-11): Paul called each of them out specifically in his letter as it was read before the whole congregation similar to what Paul did with Philemon by having a letter read before the congregation in Colossae (Philemon 1:1; Colossians 4:7-9). Paul took special care verbally to specifically address each of these women as equals, using the same exact language not to minimize the importance of either: I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche Paul used the same key phraseology in correcting them as he used with the whole church (Philippians 2:2, 5; 4:2): be of the same mind in the Lord. Pauls language suggested that their disagreement was possibly at the heart of the church division. Paul enlisted a key partner in Philippi to help these two women work out their problems with each other that was threatening the whole church (Philippians 4:3). Clearly, these women had important roles in the life and leadership of the church in Philippi. Their work had been vital in leading others to Jesus. Now, their disagreement was so volatile that Paul had to address it in his letter to the whole church, appointing a specific person among them to help these ladies solve their problems that were threatening to split the church. Where did these women gain such influence and power in the life of this important church? Pauls language suggests that they were probably evangelists who helped lead many of the church family to Christ. These leading roles for women in Philippi shouldnt surprise us. Just down the Roman highway, the Ignatian Way, in the towns of Thessalonica and Berea, Paul's teaching and preaching connected well with more than a few of the "prominent women" in the cities (Acts 17:4; Acts 17:12). That women were given prominence in Macedonia is paralleled by the importance they played in those churches. As we talk today about how God values women and their vital roles in Jesus church today, we must be aware of how God prominently involved women in growing the early church. As we carefully read the book of Acts and Pauls letters, we begin to realize this use of women was found across all sorts of cultures. It was declared by Jesus to Mary. It was tied to the prophecies of Joel at Pentecost. We see it displayed in Paul's travels into Europe. Women played indispensable roles in giving birth to the church, the spread of the good news of Jesus, and the work of building God's kingdom across cultures, breaking down barriers between races, and in involving both genders in Jesus movement of liberating grace(Galatians 3:26-29). We will encounter these principles again next week as the good news of Jesus spread to Rome with women playing vital roles in all levels of church ministry and fellowship, well before Paul even ministered there. In a time when many religious cultures gave women few leading roles, Jesus and Paul relied on them in many ways prayer, financial support, ministry, compassion, places to stay, evangelism, and as we will see next week, considerably more. Without these leading women of faith, who knows how much less the early church would have accomplished for Jesus? [NOTE1] The Incredibly Vital Role of Women in the Plan of God A series of reflections on how God values women and calls them to serve him and his people. [NOTE2] Paul's language in Philippians 4:2-3 includes two terms used for missionary endeavor "contended at my side for the sake of the gospel" and "co-workers": Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life (Philippians 4:3). Both of these terms highlighted in bold are considered technical terms for the work of evangelizing alongside Paul in challenging circumstances. Special thanks for the use of the Jesus images in Phil's series of reflections on women. These images are taken from the amazing resources of Free Bible Images and The Lumo Project. Health Board again recognized as outstanding Henderson County Public Health Board members Barbara Stanley, Robyn Bryson, Bo Caldwell and Jim Crafton accept award from Bill Lapsley, who is the County Commission liaison on the Board of Health. The Henderson County Board of Health was recognized by the Association of North Carolina Boards of Health as an Outstanding Board of Health at Monday's meeting of the Henderson County Board of Commissioners. The qualifying criteria for a nominated board of health include: The boards leadership in public health accomplishments must be clearly evident The accomplishment must either have documented results or be currently producing intended results The activity may be accomplished through the health department, other agencies, or groups Commissioner Bill Lapsley, who serves on the Henderson County Board of Health, presented board members with a plaque honoring the Boards dedication and visionary approach to issues such as school population health, substance abuse and mental health. There are 84 boards of health in the state of North Carolina. Henderson Countys Board of Health has received this honor twice within an unprecedented four-year timeframe, in January 2015 and again this year. A Hello Kitty doll like this was stuffed with cannabis A Dublin man who took delivery of a toy stuffed with nearly 200,000 of cannabis has been jailed for four years. Michael McDonald Agu (56) received the large Hello Kitty toy, which had been sent from Thailand. After his arrest, Agu told investigating gardai that the toy had been delivered to the wrong address. However, he later admitted tracking the toy's progress online. Agu, of Avondale Park, Mulhuddart, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of cannabis for sale or supply at his home on January 31. He also admitted dangerous driving and possession of cocaine for sale or supply at the same location. Judge Martin Nolan jailed Agu for four years. Garda Alan Barry told the court that after Agu received the package, he made a phone call and got into his car with the package. When a garda surveillance team moved in, Agu drove off at speed. He broke stop signs, mounted a footpath and drove down the wrong side of the road in a residential area. Postman He claimed he was trying to catch up with the postman to tell him he had delivered the package incorrectly. Agu later admitted meeting a man in a pub some weeks earlier and agreeing to take delivery of the drugs. When gardai arrested him, cocaine with an estimated street value of 5,000 fell from the beanie hat he was wearing. A drugs tick list, bagging and a weighing scales were also found. The court heard the drugs were intercepted at customs by a sniffer dog. Customs officers subsequently found the cannabis stuffed inside the toy. A garda disguised as a delivery man then went to Agu's home. Agu answered the door and signed for the package. Seamus Clarke, defending, said the father-of-five was regarded well in his community and a parish priest described him as "dedicated to peace". Judge Nolan noted that Agu had no previous convictions and that he was unlikely to commit similar offences in the future. However, he said these were serious offences. Schoolgirl Ana Kriegel (14) died as a result of blunt-force trauma to the head. The cause of her death was read into evidence at the opening of an inquest at Dublin Coroner's Court. Ana's body was found at a disused farmhouse on May 17, three days after she had been reported missing. Ana, who was adopted from Russia at the age of two, had left her house in Leixlip at around 5pm on May 14. Gardai were alerted when she did not return home. A search was launched the following day, with her body being found at the disused farmhouse on the Clonee Road, Lucan, three days later. She had suffered fatal blunt-force injuries. Her parents, Patrick and Geraldine Kriegel, attended the opening of the inquest into her death accompanied by garda liaison officer Siobhan McIntyre. Ms Kriegel entered the witness box to give evidence of how she identified her daughter's remains. Morgue "On May 18, at 4pm, I and my husband identified our daughter Anastasia Eva Kriegel to Garda McIntyre," she said. Gda McIntyre confirmed that this happened at Dublin City Morgue, with Ms Kriegel formally identifying the body to pathology staff. A post-mortem conducted by State Pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy gave the cause of death as blunt-force trauma to the head. Detective Inspector Mark O'Neill informed the coroner that "proceedings have been instituted against two persons in relation to Ana's death". Det Insp O'Neill made an application for the inquest to be adjourned until after criminal proceedings are complete. Two teenagers have been charged with Ana's murder at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road, Lucan. Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane granted the adjournment as requested and explained the process to Ana's parents. "The inquest will not return to this court until and unless all criminal proceedings are concluded," she told Mr and Ms Kriegel as they sat in the public gallery. "An Garda Siochana will keep this office informed of any developments. "My deepest condolences to you and to the whole family on your loss in these tragic circumstances. "It is not required for you to come back to this court again before criminal proceedings are completed and if there is anything else we can assist you with please contact us." The sextoy market is growing quite rapidly in India right now. Although it is not a big trend, it is a hot topic on the internet as it is secretly expanding its market. In this article, we will focus on sextoy and introduce recommended sextoy for Indian beginners of sextoy by gender. India, the birthplace of the Kama Sutra, is very strict about sex. Also, premarital sex is basically not allowed. Therefore, there are many people who are sexually restricted. But what happens when you continue to be sexually restricted? Frustration may build up and you may end up taking your sexual stress out on your partner. If you are able to adopt sextoy in a timely manner, you can get rid of those problems. I want to have more exciting sex than Im having now. I want more variation in masturbation I want to get even stronger pleasure than I do on my own. If you have any of these problems, please stay with me until the end. What is sex toys for Indian? Sextoy, as the name implies, is a toy used during sex and masturbation. It is a generic term for vibrators, Egg-vibrators, Electric massagers, dildo, handcuffs and condoms. They are used to make regular sex more exciting or to make masturbation more pleasurable. Because sextoy is very stimulating, it can help you to get rid of the problems and frustrations of being in a rut of sex with your partner for a long time, or if you are unhappy with the lack of pleasure in sex with your partner. The ability to satisfy your desires with movement, texture, and size, which cannot be done by a normal human being, can help you to be satisfied with sex and, as a result, improve your relationship with your partner. It is also said to help improve sexual dysfunction (inability to get an erection or ejaculate) and difficulty in feeling during sex (insensitivity), which is attracting more attention than in the past. In recent years, the demand for sextoy has increased due to the spread of smartphones and the Internet and the increasing number of people using online shopping. Even those who are concerned about the appearance of sextoy (and find it difficult to purchase) can now easily obtain it by using mail order. In the case of online shopping, most of the stores have taken steps to ensure that the contents of the products delivered to you are not revealed, so you can purchase them without your family members knowing. Until a while ago, you had to go to the store where the adult goods were sold to buy them, so it was quite a hurdle to overcome. Also, many people may have an image that sextoy is somehow embarrassing to own. But nowadays, some of them are so stylish and cute that you cant believe they are sextoy at a glance. More and more people are using them for travel and outdoor use because they are not too bulky and are suitable for carrying around. Sextoy situation in India Before introducing the recommended sextoy for Indians, lets talk about one of the sextoy situations in India in recent years. In India, due to the high concentration of population, the following six cities have particularly high sales of sextoy in India. Mumbai Kolkata Bangalore Delhi Chennai Hyderabad These cities account for roughly 70 percent of sextoy sales in India. In the future, the percentage of sextoy use will gradually increase in other cities in India as well. If you never talk about sextoy publicly, that girl in your neighborhood might be a sextoy user too. If you are interested in sextoy, you dont have to suppress your desire for it. What are Sextoys for beginner? Among all sextoys, sextoy for beginners are vibrators, dildo, masturbators, Sex Lubricants, and condoms. Sex Lubricants and condoms, which are familiar to people who have had sex, are also a great beginners sextoy. I will explain the details of each toy later, but there are many sextoy products that are painful to use and can only be used after some anal expansion. I assume that the Indian readers of this article are people who have not had much experience with sextoy. If such people use professional sextoy suddenly, they are at risk of injury or trauma. Therefore, to introduce sextoy, you need to start with a beginners version and gradually become familiar with it. Advantages of using sextoy for Indians There are three advantages of using sextoy for Indians You can masturbate in a wide variety of ways. Can have stimulating sex Can develop new sexual zones If you try to masturbate with your own fingers or hands, it tends to be a pattern. However, with sextoy, you can easily masturbate in a variety of ways. You will definitely be fascinated by the attraction of new stimulation. Also, your daily sex life will be more exciting than ever. There are many things in sextoy that are visually stimulating and give you a strong and intense feeling of pleasure. This allows you to see your partners promiscuity in a way that you wouldnt normally see it. When you are in a relationship, sex with your partner may become a pattern, but it can also eliminate these problems. It can also lead to the development of new sexual zones (which is the training of sexual stimulation to allow you to feel orgasms). For more information on the development of new sexual zones, see the following articles [Women's Erogenous Zone]How to find and develop, 7 hidden sexual zones !![In India] In this issue, we will dissect the female erogenous zone! ..." Many of you may be like that. Men, in particular, shou... Thus, the use of sextoy can only be a good thing for the men and women of India. Sextoy for beginner men in India So, lets continue with the recommended goods for Indian sextoy beginners. For ease of understanding, we will introduce them by gender. Lets start with the men! The following five goods are recommended for novice Indian sextoy men Masturbator Cock rings Love Doll Sex Lubricants Toys for the prostate Lets check each one in detail. Masturbator The masturbator is a sextoy for men that elaborately reproduces a womans vagina, mouth, and anus, and is one of the most popular sextoy products. It is used by men to masturbate, and it is popular because it provides stronger stimulation and pleasure more easily than using hands. Most are made of good quality silicone, and their softness is something that cannot be achieved with ones own hands. They can provide stronger pleasure than a real womans vagina, so be careful not to overuse them. (You wont be able to have an orgasm in a womans vagina anymore.) Again Male masturbators are a wonderful toy. I do not need any favourite timing, bothersome bargaining. You do not have to worry too much. Revolutionize your masturbation time! ! ! Made in Japan is a wonderful kinky toy.#sextoysindia #SexToyIndia #Japanhttps://t.co/4k70QGzoTP pic.twitter.com/tRVdxTKPpa SEXToys India PR (@SextoysIndia) November 12, 2018 Some of them are disposable, while others can be washed and used over and over again, so its fun to buy a few to use depending on your mood. If you want to know more about masturbator, please click here Really pleasant male masturbation and how to do it Are you in a rut with your daily masturbation routine? I'm going to show you five ways men masturbate that you might ... [For Beginners] How to choose and use a male masturbator without fail Gentlemen.Have you ever used a masturbator? The person who sees this article is probably the one who has not experien... Cock Ring A cock ring is literally a ring-shaped sextoy that is worn on a mans penis. It maintains an erection by binding the penis with a ring of rubber and blocking blood flow. It is sometimes used as an accessory to be worn on the penis, and may be made of metal or plastic as well as rubber. In some cases, cock rings have parts or vibrators attached to them that stimulate the vagina, so they kill two birds with one stone, giving a woman pleasure while maintaining an erection. Cock rings are also sometimes used to treat erectile dysfunction. It can help with erectile dysfunction, where the penis doesnt get hard when you get an erection or doesnt last long when you try to insert it. Men who are prone to breakage or who are unsure of the hardness and size of their erections can use a cock ring to increase the size of their penis and maintain an erection for a longer period of time. Cock rings vary in price from around RS700 to over RS2000 with a vibrator function. Some of them do not fit your penis, so you should check the size of the cock ring before you buy. You should know the size of your partners or your own penis when it is erect. [Penis enlargement] What is a cock ring? Types and usage Cock rings can make your penis bigger and harder. It also makes sex with women more fulfilling and increases your sat... Love Doll Love dolls, also known as Dutchwives, are dolls with the appearance of a woman who can experience simulated sex. There are dolls that look like a woman, but they have no face and only have their breasts and lower torso cut off, and some dolls are so realistic that they can actually be mistaken for real women. Some expensive dolls can cost more than 1 million yen, and the quality of the doll is easily influenced by the price. The higher the price, the higher the quality of the doll will be, the closer it will be to the real woman, and the cheaper the doll will be, the less elaborate it will be, making it look like a real doll! Something is wrong! That is also true. You cant go wrong if you choose a balance between price and taste. There are stores that allow you to make custom-made love dolls, so you can create a girl of your choice. You can make a girl of your choice. You can start with inexpensive love dolls at first, and once you get used to it, you can try custom-made love dolls. If you want to know more about Love doll, please click here Thorough explanation of the charm of sex dolls! Have you ever heard of sex dolls that are used primarily for pseudo-sex purposes? It is a doll that is quite close to... Sex lubricants Sex lubricants are used as a substitute for lubricating fluid during sex or as a lubricant for men to use masturbator rules. It is not uncommon for women to have difficulty getting wet, depending on their physical condition, or to have difficulty getting wet due to their constitution. Forcing the penis into the vagina at such times can cause painful intercourse. There are various types of Sex Lubricants, some with a warming effect, some with a cooling effect, and some with a scent. Changing the Sex Lubricant used during play is recommended as a good sex accent. If you want to learn more about Sex Lubricants, click here. What is sex lubricant?Explain the difference and usage of each ingredient The word "sex toy" may seem like a hurdle to overcome, but lotion is actually one of the most familiar sex toys. Many... Toys for the Prostate Another sextoy for men is prostate toys. The most famous prostate toys include Enemagra, which was originally a prostate massager developed by an American urologist to treat an enlarged prostate line. Modern prostate toys are imitations of Enemagra that have spread as sextoy for men. Many people think of prostate toys as being used by gay men, but in fact they are often used by straight men. What is the prostate? The prostate is an organ found only in men. It is a walnut-sized organ located deep in the pelvis, just below the bladder, and its primary role is to protect and nourish sperm. You cannot touch the prostate gland from outside the body, but you can touch it by inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus. By inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus and touching the prostate and developing it, you can feel intense orgasms. Orgasms felt in the prostate are mainly dry orgasms, which are orgasms that do not involve ejaculation. (You can also feel orgasms with ejaculation through prostate stimulation.) The prostate is called the male G-spot, and dry orgasms can be much more intense than ejaculation. Therefore, men who are able to develop a prostate can become addicted to the pleasure. sextoy for beinner women in India The following are the recommended goods for Indian women who are new to sextoy. The following three are recommended for use by women who are new to sextoy. Vibrator. Dildo Electric Masserger Lets check out what each one is in detail. If you want to check out womens toys, click here. [BEST25]Sex Toys for Women in IndiaThat Can Help You Have an Orgasm There are many women who pretend to feel orgasm during sex. But don't worry, you don't have to pretend to feel orgasm... Vibrators A vibrator is a sextoy that vibrates with an Egg-Vibrator to provide stimulation and is often referred to simply as a vibrator. Some vibrate as well as rotate, and there are many variations of sextoy. It is quite a popular sextoy, and is well recognized by people who do not know much about sextoy. Its usage is similar to that of a massager, but it is more compact and easier to carry than a massager, and many of them look as cute as a lipstick or a macaroon, so they are popular among women. For a while, a famous influencer on twitter said, This is good! You may have heard of the topic of this article by introducing the recommended vibrators. Vibrators are great for women to use on their own, but they are also recommended for men who have difficulty satisfying women with sex. Since it is powered by electricity, it is far less tiring than moving your hands by yourself. This makes it easier to satisfy a woman with sex because you can caress her for longer than usual. Vibrators are mainly used on the female side, but they can also be used on men. When used on men, they are used to attack the nipples and glans, and in both cases it is recommended to wear a condom for hygiene reasons. Introducing how to use the vibrator, its purpose, and how to choose it! Vibrator uses the vibrations caused by the rotation of the motor to provide stimulation. It is one or two of the most... Dildo A dildo is a model sextoy made to mimic a male penis. It can be made of silicone, elastomer (think of it as a material similar to PVC), metal or glass. A dildo can be used by a man for his female partner during sex, or by a woman for masturbation to get pleasure from it. They are mainly inserted into women, but some can be used in the male anus as well. It is sometimes used synonymously with vibrators, but the vibrator is not the same thing as a vibrating device. A model of a penis that does not vibrate is a dildo. Some of them have suction cups that can be attached to the floor or wall so that you can enjoy realistic masturbation without using your hands. For fun, there is a dildo made in the shape of your partners penis. This one is also popular as a gift, and if youve been together for a long time and are having trouble finding a gift for your partner, you might want to pick one. To learn more about dildo, please click here. What is Dildo: Orgasms with Dildos for Men and Women A dildo is a model of a male organ that is used by women for masturbation and by men to stimulate the prostate gland. Th... Electric Masserger A Electric Masserger is a hand-held electric massager, also known as a handheld massager, and can usually be purchased at electronics stores. It was originally designed to relieve stiff shoulders and back pain, so the hurdle of buying one in a physical store is quite low. Many people may have seen or used it in some form or another, as it is often installed in leisure hotels. Such a massager is highly recommended for beginners because it is easy for women to get pleasure from it when they use it during masturbation. It is larger than Egg-Vibrator and vibrations are stronger than those of Egg-Vibrators and vibrators, so even just hitting the clitoris can give you a great deal of pleasure. For those women who have never had an orgasm during sex with their man, the massager may be a good way to get a feel for what it feels like to have an orgasm. It looks and feels like an electric massager, so you wont have to feel awkward if your roommate finds out. If you are in a rut of having sex with your partner, if you want to feel an orgasm through masturbation, or if you are thinking of using a sextoy, why dont you try it from a simple massager? To learn more about Electric Masserger, click here. What is a massager? Introducing types, selection methods, and usage Originally, the Magic-wand vibrator and the massage machine were sold as a home massage machine used for the back and th... How to choose a sextoy for Indian Now that weve covered the different types of sextoy, heres how to choose one. Especially if you are trying sextoy for the first time, pay attention to the following three points: Does the size fit you (the partner)? Does the size fit you (your partner)? Is the environment able to produce sound without problems? Price range First of all, the choice of size is quite important. Most sextoy are used against or inserted into the genitals, but the genitals are very delicate organs for both men and women. For this reason, using an inappropriate size may cause damage. Secondly, the environment should be able to produce sound without problems. Some sextoys not only wear, but also rotate and vibrate. Its easier to get pleasure from something that moves than something that doesnt, but the fact that it moves means that the internal rotors make some noise. If you live in a house with thin walls or if you have roommates, you may not be able to concentrate because of the noise, so it is best to choose one that is silent or has a low noise level. Especially in India, where many people live with their families, it is very important that you dont have to worry about sound when you use it. Finally, there is the price range. The price range of sextoy ranges widely, from around RS500 at the cheapest to RS10,000 or more at the highest. Its good to consider how much money you can afford and how much you want to buy. Do you want your family to not find out about sextoy? I live with my family and want to use sextoy without them finding out! If you are a man, you should buy a camouflage sextoy that does not look like a sextoy at first glance. For men, there are many masturbators that do not look like a sextoy, and for women, there are vibrators that only look like cosmetics. If you choose such a type, youll be safe in case your family members find out. How to buy sextoys in India The best way to purchase sextoy is through online shopping. For more information on how to purchase sextoy, please see the article below. Sextoy is one of them. Therefore, you can easily get sextoy in India by using online shopping. SexToysINDIA is a long established and stable sextoy store and you can have sextoy delivered to any place in India. They also offer cash on delivery, so those who are worried about shopping with a credit card do not have to worry. Of course, the latest security is in place, so your information will not be taken out when you use your credit card. To begin with, many people may be concerned about whether they are legally allowed to purchase sextoy. ikmAs it turns out, its not illegal. Right now, it is not open to the public because the Indian adult market is still in the development stage, but it will gradually spread from now on. Take advantage of sextoy and open the door to new pleasures and culture. Cautions for Indians using sextoy When using sextoy, keep the following three things in mind Keep sex toys clean Watch out for electrical leakage Beware of the heat generated by the body while using a sex toy As I mentioned earlier, many sextoy products are used for the delicate zone. Therefore, it is most important to keep the sextoy itself clean. It is very important to keep the sextoy itself clean, because if a slight scratch is created by friction, bacteria can enter and breed there. It is safe to wear a condom when using the masturbator, just in case. In addition, many sextoy devices are powered by a power source, so if they are not waterproof, there is a possibility of electric shock or malfunction due to wetness. Some may even develop heat during continuous use. If the fever becomes too much, you may get burned, so be careful. If you get a fever during use, stop driving the sextoy immediately and refrain from using it. You will enjoy sex more if you keep it safe and use it correctly. Summary What did you think? In this article, we have introduced the recommended sextoy for the beginners of sextoy in India. The sextoy market is growing rapidly in India and it will continue to grow steadily in the future. As India is a rather closed-minded country, it can be difficult to be open about ones sexual habits and values. However, being faithful to ones desires by properly dissolving ones sexual desire is very effective for ones physical and mental health. If this is your first time to learn about sextoy, or if you are interested in using sextoy, why not give it a try? Indian Sextoys for ur best! will introduce you to sextoy and other trivia about sextoy, sexuality, and sexuality for men and women. I want to read more! If you think its a great idea, please bookmark it. For Subscribers Parents call for removal of books from school system libraries Two of the books that have explicit content are "Lawn Boy," by Jonathan Evison, and "L8r, g8r," by Lauren Myracle. By Azernews By Kamila Aliyeva Turkeys STAR oil refinery, owned by the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), will reach its full production capacity in January 2019. This was stated by CEO of SOCAR Turkey Energy Zaur Gahramanov, Anadolu news agency reported. He stressed that the refinery is a long-term investment project. As for financing, no bank in Turkey issues loans for the period we need. Therefore, we were forced to attract long-term financing abroad, Gahramanov added. The STAR refinery will produce naphtha, diesel with ultra-low sulfur content, aviation kerosene, petroleum coke, liquefied gas and other products. The refinery will not produce gasoline and fuel oil. The plant plans to process such types of oil as Azeri Light, Kerkuk and Urals. The launch of the company is scheduled for October 2018. The processing capacity of the refinery will be 10 million tons of products per year. To date, the share distribution in the project is as follows 60 percent belongs to Rafineri Holding (100 percent owned by SOCAR Turkey Energy), which previously bought out all 18.5 percent of the share of Turcas Petrol in the project, and 40 percent belongs to SOCAR. STAR refinery will meet more than 25 percent of the processed oil products need of Turkey upon its startup. It will eventually reduce the foreign-dependency of the country. STAR refinery, foundation of which was laid in 2011, is currently under construction on a 2,400-hectare site on Aliaga Peninsula. With a crude oil processing capacity of 10 million tons, STAR refinery is underway as the most critical component of SOCAR Turkeys integrated energy solutions and value chain. STAR refinery will be put into service with a total investment of $6.3 billion. The construction of the refinery is undertaken by a multinational consortium, comprised of Tecnicas Reunidas (Spain), Saipem (Italy), GS Engineering (South Korea) and ITOCHU (Japan). Founded in 2008, SOCAR Turkey, officially titled SOCAR Turkey Enerji A.?., is an affiliate of SOCAR, one of the most well-established oil and natural gas companies of the world. SOCAR Energy Turkey keeps empowering Turkish industry with its significant investments, thus assisting Turkey in becoming a major player in international energy platforms. SOCAR is the biggest foreign investor of Turkey with its total investment to reach $19.5 billion by 2020. At the same time, SOCARs group companies in Turkey, namely Petkim, STAR Refinery, Petlim Container Terminal and Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) represent the largest-scale investment that Azerbaijan has ever made to a single country. A major conference attended by leading Islamic Finance experts and scholars on corporate governance of Islamic Financial Institutions was held recently in Sasana Kijang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The conference was organised by General Council for Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions (CIBAFI), a global umbrella of Islamic financial institutions, and the World Bank. The 2nd CIBAFI - World Bank Conference on "Corporate Governance of Islamic Financial Institutions: Overcoming Challenges and Implementing Best Practices" was attended by more than 200 active delegates from 25 countries. CIBAFI World Bank Conference was organised in partnership with Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad and supported by Malaysia World's Islamic Finance Marketplace (Bank Negara Malaysia). It endeavoured to bring together leading Corporate Governance stakeholders from the Islamic finance industry, multilateral institutions, international and national regulatory bodies, policy-makers, and academia to discuss emerging issues and the best practices in light of recent Corporate Governance developments. The welcoming remarks were presented by Abdelilah Belatik, secretary general, CIBAFI; Abayomi Alawode, lead financial sector specialist and head of Islamic Finance, the World Bank; Abdulhameed M Aboumoussa, CIBAFI deputy chairman and governor, Faisal Islamic Bank of Egypt; and Dato Haji Mohd Redza Shah Abdul Wahid, CIBAFI board of directors member and chief executive officer, Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad. The conference has also witnessed a special keynote address by Wimboh Santoso, chairman of the board of commissioners, Financial Services Authority (OJK), Indonesia. The opening panel, themed Outlook of Recent Corporate Governance Practices of Islamic Banks was chaired by Musa Abdulaziz Shihadeh, CIBAFI board member, chief executive officer and general manager, Jordan Islamic Bank. The first session themed Board Effectiveness as a Major Issue of Corporate Governance Practices of Islamic Banks was chaired by Nidal Barghouti, CIBAFI board member and general manager, Safa Bank, Palestine. Risk Management, Transparency and Reporting Requirements was the main theme of the second session. Chairing this session was Gonzalo Rodriguez, general coordinator, Saudi-Spanish Center for Islamic Economics and Finance (SCIEF), Spain. The conference was concluded with the third session titled Shariah Governance which was chaired by Dr Saad Bakkali, manager - Higher Shariah Authority, Central Bank of the UAE. The discussion topics focused on the role and structures of shariah supervisory boards (SSB) in the light of strengthening regulatory regimes; the accountability and independence of SSB; and aligning SSB and the BOD towards greater synchronization and harmony. The session has also witnessed an interesting sharing of case studies and best practices in Shariah Governance. The conference was organised as part of the MoU signed between CIBAFI and the World Bank that aims to reinforce both CIBAFIs and the World Banks commitment to help foster the development of Islamic finance globally including in the developing markets in the area of corporate governance. - TradeArabia News Service The six-legged fly, a vector of the faecal-oral route transmission, was the cause of many socio-economic problems in India. Over one lakh children annually succumb to diseases spread by the fly and its vector brethren, primarily due to diarrhoea. Open defecation is the prime cause. For more years than we can count, more than half the people of India, a country of diverse people, cultures and faiths, have faced an unusually unifying question every morning: Where do I squat to answer natures call today? In our country of paradoxes, the contrast between being a rising global superpower and having one of the finest demographic dividend on the one hand, and the challenge of one-fourth of our population not having access to sanitation in the form of toilets or sewage treatment systems on the other hand is sadly striking. The launch of Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15, 2014, was a clarion call by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who no doubt has the conviction and the commitment to make India clean and healthy. The programme had excellent early success, with India moving from 37% sanitation coverage in 2014 to 67% safe sanitation by 2016. A programme of this scale cannot become a success with merely a push from the top, critical though this is. Currently, the country is home to about 4.5 lakh Swachhagrahis, or foot soldiers, spreading the message of sanitation. Over the years, initiatives such as Swachh Sankalp se Swachh Siddhi, Freedom from Open Defecation Week, Satyagraha se Swachhagraha, Swachh Bharat Summer Internship and Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) are some of the SBM programs that have propelled the programme into a citizens movement. This year, SHS 2018, organised by the ministry of drinking water and sanitation, is looking to reinforce the message of a jan-andolan (citizens movement). In the SHS 2017 campaign, an estimated 10 crore Indians had participated to make India clean in just a fortnight. This year, the SHS campaign commenced on September 15 and will run up to October 2 to coincide with the beginning of Mahatma Gandhis 150th birth anniversary celebrations. The campaign will engage government bodies, sportspersons, faith leaders, media persons, the corporate sector and their employees, political leaders, school students, youth, pensioners and Swachhagrahis contributing to the cause of Swachhata. India Sanitation Coalition (ISC) is taking the Swaachta Doot programme, originally conceived and implemented by Hindustan Unilever, to other companies across the country. This is a worker-volunteer programme in which factory employees are the messengers of change. While the progress made in the past three years is indeed heartening, there is much work to be done, especially in urban India. The large scale migration of our rural population into urban areas has resulted in the mushrooming of slums, with an estimated 15-20% of our population residing in slums where the lack of space makes the provision of individual or even community toilets difficult. In cooperation with the Urban Local Bodies, some corporations have made efforts to alleviate this issue. A good example of this is the Suvidha facility put up by Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) in Ghatkopar (Maharashtra) as also the Sulabh Internationals pay and use model. Swachh Bharat Mission has worked to build consensus toward a collaborative plan to tackle the sanitation challenge. Unprecedented efforts like Swachh Iconic Places, Swachhata Action Plan, Swachhata Pakhwada, engagement of companies, public sector undertakings, development partners, non-profit organisations and media have helped unite many for a common goal. To harness the collaborative power of NGOs, development partners, corporations, donors and the government, a few of us started the India Sanitation Coalition in 2015. We have encouraged, hand-held corporations to embrace sanitation, and spend Corporate Social Responsibility funds in support of the countrys sanitation agenda . With a multi-stakeholder approach, a specific thrust has been made to promote the entire value chain of sanitation, based on our BUMT (build, use, maintain and treat) model that addresses not just the building and usage of toilets, but also the treatment of waste generated. Corporations are playing a key role in a wide spectrum of sanitation themes, right from the creation of innovative infrastructure (Havells) to skills development (Kohler, Reckitt Benckiser), behaviour change advocacy (IL&FS, HUL) as well as community engagement. Reckitt Benckisers behaviour-change communication specifically through the Dettol Banega Swachh India campaign needs special mention. Many companies have supported toilets in schools. Some of these best practices are covered in greater detail in my book, Survive or Sink, which presents a holistic approach to the many challenges and opportunities in sustainable development in India and provides recommendations on aspects that need to be considered for the next level of sanitation initiatives or Swachhata 2.0. With everyone making sanitation their responsibility, the mission is expected to extend to a sustainable open defecation free status for the country. While the progress on the ODF front is resounding, Swachhata 2.0 will need to address the complex issue of urban sanitation. With nearly 75% of the faecal waste (which carries pathogens and disease-carrying bacteria) remains untreated, and finds their way into drains, lakes and rivers, they pose a serious risk to health and overall productivity of the country. In its newer avatar, the sanitation journey for our country will need to address sustainability with a clear mandate to all sanitation stakeholders. We need to go beyond the building of toilets, and invest in upstream areas of the BUMT chain, especially in faecal waste treatment. If we do not tackle treatment of faecal sludge, we would have embarked on one of the most expensive exercises in history to remove it from our fields by funnelling it into toilets and then dumping it right back into our fields. With new sanitation policies under the Swachh Bharat Mission, its focus on ODF sustainability, inter-sectoral collaboration and quality without compromising on scale and speed, toilets are fast moving from being a privilege to being a right. And the image of the six-legged fly is now overshadowed by the image of the Late Kunwar Bai (who passed away earlier this year at the age of 106 years), who was felicitated by Prime Minister Modi for building toilets in Rajnandgaon by selling off her goats, and is the real Swachh Bharat Abhiyan mascot. So, let us celebrate much that has been achieved even as we continue on our journey to achieve ODF status for the country. Naina Lal Kidwai is Chair, India Sanitation Coalition The views expressed are personal Slumdog Millionaire star Freida Pinto has extended support to actor and former Miss India Tanushree Dutta. In a new post on Instagram, Freida wrote in bold letters that she believes Tanushrees account that she was sexually harassed by actor Nana Patekar on the sets of a film in 2008. Freida also took the example of Dr Christine Blasey Ford, a professor of psychology in America who has accused US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexual assault when they were in high school, to say that she believes the survivors of sexual harassment. She said that while she doesnt know Tanushree personally or was there at time of the incident, she knows what truth, abuse and hurt sounds like. Freida called Tanushrees bravery monumental and important and also reminded her critics that her story doesnt have an expiration date. Here is her full post: Today, I interrupt my feed for a bit from all the fashion week poses to stand by what I truly Believe. I Believe Tanushree Dutta! I dont need to know her personally, neither have been present on that horrendous day she got bullied, abused both sexually and psychologically, intimidated and shut down inorder to corroborate her story. However, I do know what Truth, Hurt and Abuse sounds like. The same way millions of people in the world know that Dr. Christine Blasey- Ford is NOT a Liar or an attention seeking, tantrum throwing overgrown child. I add my voice to the other voices coming out in support of Tanushrees bravery because God knows this is not going to be easy for you, Tanushree. But what you have done is monumental and important and it has to shake the very core of a nation and an ideology that for too long has gotten away with heinous crimes against women and where the ugliness of misogyny has dominated the rights and suppressed any voice that has dared to speak up. Also, even if someone speaks up ( and in Tanushrees case- speaks up AGAIN) 10 years later, it doesnt dilute or nullify a factual, verified, double verified truth. Her story is not a carton of milk that expires after a few days, ready to be discarded. So trolls : please do what you do best but it is not going to change the Truth. India - Stand Up, Speak Up. Dont look to just your superstars to speak up. Be your own role models and follow the voice of your conscience. Follow the truth and stand by a womans right to be her own wind keeper. You may just end up setting an example for many others who probably need your grit and courage to speak up. I SUPPORT TANUSHREE DUTTA. Tanushree, in a recent interview, spoke again about how Nana Patekar sexual harassed her on the sets of her 2008 film, Horn Ok Please, an accusation she has also made right after the incident. Her allegations found a stronger voice 10 years later with the #MeToo and Times Up movements gaining momentum. Nana has denied her allegations and his lawyer has said that they have sent a legal notice to Tanushree for making false accusations against him. Tanushree says she hasnt received the notice yet. Several Bollywood stars like Farhan Akhtar, Sonam Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Ayushmann Khurrana have come out in her support. Meanwhile, Nana is currently shooting for Housefull 4 with Farah Khan in Jaisalmer. Follow @htshowbiz for more A common grouse among the creatively inclined is that the pressures of adulthood keep them away from their passions. This is all the more true when one cant find a way to make their art or craft financially sustainable. But, what if we told you that you no longer have to choose between your passion and your profession? Let these five creative entrepreneurs inspire you to take that leap of faith. Armed only with their immense talent, these individuals dreamt of, created, and finally sold their distinctive and quirky creations on Etsy one of the worlds largest e-commerce platforms for handmade wares. Here are their stories. Going places from Lucknow: Ruchi Pugalia Etsy shop: ComfyMommy Are you a designer? These 5 entrepreneurs show you how to make your craft sustainable Ruchi Pugalia was an assistant director in Bollywood, but she knew that she wanted to pursue something on her own. It was during this time that she also moved to Lucknow as she was expecting Yuvaan, her baby and future in-house model for ComfyMommy. Her friends suggested Etsy, and one day she decided to start her shop. The fact that she had an NID degree really helped. Ruchi initially began by making dresses, but finally found her niche in maternity clothing. Seeing how there was a lack of comfortable, utilitarian, and at the same time pretty clothing options for expecting mothers, she decided to do something about it. Now, Comfy Mommy has customers in the US, UK, and other parts of Europe. Her entire family is supporting her in this initiative and it all started with just one dress. Making cotton fashionable: Shilpi Yadav Etsy Shop: KharaKapas Are you a designer? These 5 entrepreneurs show you how to make your craft sustainable A true blue army brat, Shilpi is always on the move for new challenges and new milestones. Being the creative head of an e-commerce company was just not doing it for her. So, she hung her 9-5 shoes and became the founder of KharaKapas, her Etsy store, which specializes in handloom dresses. For the longest time, Shilpi was the designer, photographer, and marketer, with a small team that brought her amazing designs to life. Today, her Etsy family and wide base of buyers keep her motivated to constantly improve and update her creations. The one-woman army: Kriti Jindal Etsy Shop: KariByKriti Are you a designer? These 5 entrepreneurs show you how to make your craft sustainable Kriti grew up surrounded by her mothers love for sarees and handlooms and went on to study apparel merchandising. Her job took her places, one of them being Australia. However, she met with an unfortunate accident there which led her to be bedridden for six months and eventually quit her job. Her indomitable spirit didnt allow her to think of this as a setback; instead, she started blogging about her love for textiles and weaves, thereby laying the foundations of her Etsy shop, KariByKriti. Today, selling her wares online not only makes her happy but also adds a lot of creative satisfaction. How many of us can say that about our jobs? An engineer with a creative streak: Ruchi Jain Etsy Shop: ArtRevaLane Are you a designer? These 5 entrepreneurs show you how to make your craft sustainable Ruchi was a software engineer by profession who worked in the US. However, artistically driven, she would often end up in the library or art shops. She liked playing with different media watercolors, pastels, and what not, but glass always held a strange pull for her. Finally, one day, Ruchi ditched her corporate job in favour of art; more specifically the Tiffany glass-staining technique. Today, her Etsy store is a delight to go through, with a myriad of dainty, beautiful objects made of glass, ranging from ring boxes to candle holders. Given a choice between a 9-5 job and her Etsy baby ArtRevaLane, Ruchi will always go for the latter because she is the happiest when her hands are busy. Artist for the soul: Dithi Mukherjee Etsy Shop: StudioAnahata Are you a designer? These 5 entrepreneurs show you how to make your craft sustainable Even as a child, Dithi was drawn to art and painting. However, adulthood brought on marriage and jobs which required her to travel away from her home city Kolkata to Switzerland. While abroad, Dithi rediscovered her love for art. To make up for the restrictive costs of art supplies, she started selling some of her prints on Etsy. Soon, she sold enough prints to confidently take the plunge of dedicating herself to art entirely. She moved back to Kolkata, undertook formal training in art and printmaking, and now spends her time at her beautiful studio immersed in creative pursuits. As you can tell, these 5 wonder women started their businesses alone, without a big team or a huge seed investment. They simply followed their passion and focused on creating unique products. The rest, as they say, is history. If you too wish to be a creative entrepreneur and set up an online shop, join Etsy as a creative seller now. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal held a meeting with party leaders from Punjab to take stock of the political situation in the state ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. In the luncheon meeting held in New Delhi, AAP member of Parliament Bhagwant Mann, leader of opposition in state assembly Harpal Singh Cheema, nine other MLAs and four zonal presidents were present. Delhi deputy chief minister and in-charge of Punjab affairs Manish Sisodia also attended the meeting. Sunam legislator Aman Arora said there was a discussion on the upcoming parliamentary polls and key issues in the state. Kejirwal ji told the state leaders to start consultations for identifying the probable candidates for the Lok Sabha elections, he said. The party leaders also gave feedback on the recent zila parishad and block samiti elections, how the party fared and the areas where it needs to focus in the future. However, the dissident MLAs led by Sukhpal Singh Khaira, which has the support of eight of the 20 party MLAs, kept away from the meeting. Khaira and other rebel legislators, who took on the partys central leadership, have been holding their own parallel rallies and demanding autonomy for the state unit. Mann, who is MP from Sangrur, told reporters that the meeting had no specific agenda. It was our monthly meeting with the central leaders. If they (rebel MLAs) did not show up,it is their wish. The party MLAs have been making efforts for rapprochement with them, he said on the absence of Khaira and other dissident legislators. On the Lok Sabha elections, the Sangrur MP said the party will contest with its full might. There is disaffection with the Congress and the SAD due to the manner in which they have handled the sacrilege issue. The Congress has also not fulfilled its poll promises, he said. Santosh Singh, convicted in the 1996 rape and murder of Delhi University student, Priyadarshini Mattoo, is the latest name added to the list of prisoners who are being considered for an early release, a government official familiar with the development said. The Sentence Review Board (SRB) will meet on Thursday and decide the fate of more than a hundred prisoners, including Santosh Singh, Manu Sharma and Sushil Sharma. The names of the latter two were presented to the SRB in its last meeting on June 24, when the board deferred a decision for the next hearing. Santosh Singh has been in prison since 2006, since he was sentenced to death by the Delhi high court. The sentence was commuted to life imprisonment by the Supreme Court in 2010. Manu Sharma was convicted in 2006 for the murder of model Jessica Lall and given a life sentence. Sushil Sharma was convicted in 2006 in the Naina Sahni tandoor murder and also sentence to life imprisonment. Last week, Delhi home minister Satyendar Jains office called the offices of the other six board members and informed them about the October 4 meeting. The SRB, comprising Jain, director general (prisons) Ajay Kashyap, home secretary Manoj Parida, a Delhi police officer of the rank of joint commissioner, a district judge, law secretary Anoop K Mendirata, and a government-appointed probation officer, will meet and discuss if the prisoners should be released. A prison officer said Santoshs name has been included for the first time. A practising lawyer at the time of his arrest in 2006, he has a clean record in prison. In 1996, Santosh Singh, son of IPS officer JP Singh, who was a joint commissioner in the Delhi police, was arrested for the rape and murder of third-year law student Priyadarshini Mattoo. The 23-year-old was found dead at her house in Vasant Vihar in January 1996. The police said Singh stalked Mattoo for over two years. The two were fellow students at Delhi University. In 1999, a city court acquitted Singh of the charges, highlighting inaction by Delhi Police. The verdict triggered protests across the country. Indias then president, KR Narayan, said that the cathedrals of justice have become like casinos. The police appealed the sentence in Delhi high court, which convicted him in 2006. Confirming Singhs inclusion in the list, a jail officer said, As per the prison rules, we are duty-bound to include his name and send it to the SRB. His prison record in clean. He has not flouted any rule in the last 14 years. With most board members giving positive reviews about the prison conducts of Manu Sharma and Sushil Sharma, the board deferred the cases of the two men during the July 24 meeting. The two have also been transferred to the open and semi-open jail. It will be interesting what the board decides. Whatever they decide will be approved or denied by Delhis lieutenant governor. Interestingly, the Delhi HC, while hearing a PIL recently, reminded the state government about release rules. No prisoner can be kept in jail beyond 20 years. With remission, Sushil Sharma has completed 28 years, while Manu Sharma has done 20 years, said a home department official who asked not to be named. Pakistans railway minister, Sheikh Rasheed, says he will reduce a Chinese-funded $8.2 billion rail investment plan by $2 billion. Upgrading Pakistans trains is a pillar of the massive $62 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He says he cannot afford the debt and has even talked of another cut of the same amount. Mr Rasheed reflects the Imran Khan governments sober view that Pakistans economic future is endangered by the intersection of two dangerous practices. One is Beijings use of debt-funded infrastructure to extend its geopolitical reach. The other is Pakistans long-standing addiction to overseas borrowing. Chinas Belt Road Initiative, of which CPEC is the flagship project, today faces a backlash from many of its supposed beneficiaries. Malaysia and Myanmar are among the other major partners who have suspended or asked to renegotiate the terms of these infrastructure projects. The hapless condition of Sri Lanka is already well-known. Mr Khans government has said it wants to cure Pakistan of its chronic financial illnesses. Mr Rasheeds statement is a small sign it recognises this will not be possible if CPEC is allowed to continue in its present form. The other side of the coin is to change Pakistans macroeconomic path. Its political and military elites have developed a fondness for expensive capital projects designed to wow voters, generate bursts of growth and produce kickbacks. They have simply ignored the reforms needed to boost domestic productivity and ensure long-term growth. These showcase projects depend on imported inputs and foreign capital and leave a financial hangover of debts and deficits. This is why Pakistan goes to the International Monetary Fund for help after every election. This election has been no different except that China has been added to the donor list. Chinas CPEC and Pakistans borrowing have created a dependency syndrome. Mr Khans government recognises this but has yet to go beyond words. Taking on both Islamabads elite and Beijing will not be easy. However, it is a fight that has to be won as the results of this bond of debt are disastrous and will get worse. Shortly after Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Wednesday ruled out any alliance with the Congress for assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav said the Congress should show magnanimity to form a grand-alliance of like-minded parties for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The Congress should take all the non-BJP parties along as the formation of grand alliance is its responsibility. The Congress should fight the election in a coalition with the like-minded parties, Yadav told reporters in Lucknow. I am saying even today that the Congress should show its large-heartedness, and it should contest elections by taking along all the political parties who have similar thoughts and ideology, yadav said. He said other parties would declare their candidates if the alliance was delayed, and so the Congress should take steps to form it, he said. He warned that any delay would endanger the formation of a grand alliance. If there is any delay, then there is a possibility that other parties may declare their candidates. After this, they (Congress) will be levelling allegations that they colluded with the BJP, Yadav said. The SP chief has already declared that he is ready to take some steps backward to pave the way for the grand alliance. GP Global (formerly Gulf Petrochem Group) has announced the expansion and strengthening of its global bunkering operations with 12 strategic appointments to senior roles across its key international offices. The new appointments cover GP Globals offices in Geneva, Switzerland; London and Hull, UK; Sharjah and Dubai in the UAE; Mumbai, India and Singapore, said a statement. David Matthews, bunker trader, West of Suez, London, UK; Steven Taylor, lead physical supply, West of Suez, Hull, UK; Susan Needham, trading operator physical supply, West of Suez, Hull, UK; Amit Dingwani, lead oil trading operator GCC, Sharjah, UAE; Christopher Morgan, lead bunker credit management, Global UAE and Rotterdam; Thanasis Baxevanis, trading manager Marine Lubricants, GCC, UAE; Eric Toh, bunker trader, APAC, Singapore; Suman Chatterjee, lead industrial sales, Mumbai, India; Ankita Batra, bunker trader, GP Global Energy, Mumbai, India; Basile Collenberg, junior bunker trader, West of Suez, Geneva, Switzerland; Sumesh Ramadasan, bunker trader, West of Suez, Rotterdam, Netherlands; Nishmith Chowta, bunker trader, West of Suez, Singapore, it said. Prerit Goel, group director at GP Global, said: Following the recent re-branding of the group, our efforts are now focused on consolidating our business across all key international markets and these appointments of experienced professionals is the next step in making this happen. Our bunkering division has witnessed exponential growth over the past year as a result of our expanded footprint in the ARA and APAC market with other global offices. We believe that investing in the right talent is the key driver to ensuring our organisations continued progress. They bring a wealth of expertise in the bunkering business that will accelerate our growth as a global organisation, helping to add even better value for our customers, he said. The knowledge and skills that the new team members bring is an asset to our company that will enable us to gain significant industry leadership by assuring our customers with strong market insights, he added. Goel continued: The bunker market is something we feel has a lot of challenges short, mid and long-term but equally these present a fascinating opportunity for those able to add genuine value throughout the supply chain as GP Global is always looking to do. The upcoming IMO 2020 restrictions on burning high sulphur marine fuels will radically alter the landscape in bunkering, not just for supplying and trading the product but for credit, technical and compliance as well. We are very much looking forward to seeing what the future holds in store and are very confident that the team we have built and are continuing to augment will go from strength to strength. It is a very exciting time, he said. The raft of new executive appointments across the globe by GP Global reflects the success the company has experienced across all business units, including the bunkering sector, in the face of the challenging global economic climate. Chris Todd, head of bunkering, West of Suez at GP Global, said: The month of October will see us increase our bunker barge fleet to capitalise on opportunities we see in the ARA market. With this in mind our recent hires, who are well versed and experienced in the ARA market allows us to competently handle the increase in volumes we expect to see. Further, as the group continues to perform well its only natural we continue to add talented individuals to our team, he said. Anil Keswani, head of bunkering, East of Suez at GP Global, added: As far as our East of Suez business is concerned, our physical location in Fujairah has grown from one barge to three. We will add one more barge to our fleet by the end of this year. Apart from our physical supply, we have grown our back to back to sales and are exploring the marine lubricants sector too, he added. TradeArabia News Service A 45-year-old woman was allegedly gangraped in Patna district of Bihar while she was taking a bath in the River Ganga during a religious ritual on Monday, police said on Wednesday. Officials said two men, including the person who captured the crime on video and later shared it on social media, have been arrested. The incident came to the fore after the video was widely shared on social media late on Tuesday evening. In the video, the woman is seen pleading to the accused and asking them to consider the sanctity of the Ganga, which she addressed as mother, in Barh police station area in rural Patna. Local villagers alleged that when the woman reached the concerned police station to lodge her complaint against the culprits, the policemen refused to register a first information report. Barh Police swung into action only after they came across the viral video of the crime and superintendent of police (rural) Anand Kumar took up the case to monitor it. Police said the woman was dragged out of the river by a man named Shivpujan Mahto, a driver, and took turns to rape her along with others. Confirming the incident, Patna senior superintendent of police Manu Maharaaj said they have arrested two men, including Mahto and Vishal, who recorded the crime. A minor girl, whom Mahto had lured into accompanying him, was also rescued, Maharaaj added. The incident comes less than two weeks after the principal and clerk of a private school in Patnas Phulwarisharif were arrested for allegedly raping a Class 5 student repeatedly in the school premises for over nine months. Bharatiya Janata Party general secretary Ram Madhav said on Wednesday that the party would fight alone in the Mizoram assembly election, but might forge an alliance with like-minded parties. Addressing a press conference here, Madhav, who is in charge of the Northeast, said the BJP would field candidates in all the 40 assembly seats if possible. On the Opposition calling Mizo National Front (MNF) proxy of the BJP, the general secretary termed it ridiculous. The party would contest against the MNF and the National Peoples Party in the polls, though they are constituents of North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA). NEDA is a political coalition formed in 2016 by the BJP, along with regional political parties of the northeast like Naga Peoples Front, Sikkim Democratic Front, Peoples Party of Arunachal, Asom Gana Parishad and Bodoland Peoples Front. He asserted that the BJP respected the food habits, distinct cultural and customs of the Mizos and their religion. Madhav accused the ruling Congress, headed by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla -- in power for 10 years -- of being corrupt and inefficient. The Thanhawla regime did not create any basic infrastructure development during the last decade, though the Centre initiated several developmental projects and funding the projects, the BJP leader said. If voted to power, the BJP would construct a four-lane highway across the state, linking both Myanmar and Bangladesh, Madhav said. The proposed highway would ensure access to the international market and open the east-west corridor for trade. He added that engineering colleges would be established at Lunglei and Champhai districts if the saffron party wins. Bahujan Samaj Partys Mayawati on Wednesday shut the doors on an alliance with the Congress for assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan in a huge setback to the oppositions effort to put up a united front against the ruling BJP. Mayawati also launched a blistering attack on the Congress as she announced her partys decision to either go alone in the two states or tie up with local players. But she didnt say a word about her partys stand in next years Lok Sabha elections. That omission is seen as a message to the Congress that she was amenable to exploring an partnership for 2019. The BSP chief also drew a distinction between the Congress which she repeatedly described as arrogant and the two top Congress leaders, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and party chief Rahul. I feel that Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhis intentions for the Congress-BSP alliance are honest. However, some Congress leaders are sabotaging this, she said, according to news agency ANI. The Congress took note of this expression of trust. If Mayawati ji holds absolute trust in Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, then other creases can be ironed out, said Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala. The BSP chief is said to have been particularly upset about Congress leader Digvijaya Singhs comment that had linked her partys decision to contest the Chhattisgarh election in partnership with Ajit Jogis party to what he had claimed, was pressure from central probe agencies such as the CBI. It is important to know that this senior leader of Congress is an agent of the BJP, Mayawati said, hitting back before accusing the Congress of trying to finish off the BSP. They (Congress) are getting arrogant and are under misconception that they can defeat the BJP on their own but the ground reality is that people havent forgiven Congress party for their mistakes and corruption. They dont seem to be ready to rectify themselves, Mayawati said. But it wasnt just one comment made on television by a Congress leader that had driven her decision against partnering with the Congress. The BSP had also been piqued at the Congress because the party hadnt offered the BSP what it considered would have been a respectable number of seats. In Rajasthan, the Congress was offering us only nine seats out of 200 assembly seats, in Madhya Pradesh 15-20 (out of 230 seats in the state), in Chhattisgarh only 5-6 seats out of 90, he said, according to ANI. Mayawati underlined that this wasnt such a great offer, particularly given that when the BSP enters into an alliance with any party, the BSP was able to transfer its vote in favour of the joint candidate. The BSP loses more due to alliance as all its votes get transferred to Congress. Keeping in mind such things, we think Congress is trying to eliminate small parties like BSP in the name of wiping out BJP, she said. Indian Air Force (IAF) chief BS Dhanoa on Wednesday described the governments decision to buy 36 Rafale fighters from France in a government-to-government deal as a bold step to scale up the IAFs capabilities, and called the warplane a game-changer and a much-needed booster dose for the force, even as he questioned the ability of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to deliver warplanes on schedule. Air Chief Marshal Dhanoas strong defence of the controversial deal comes against the backdrop of sharp attacks from the Congress-led Opposition that accuses the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government of negotiating an overpriced deal to buy fighters in flyaway condition from France. He said the negotiations by the previous United Progressive Alliance government to purchase 126 Rafale jets had hit an impasse. It could not be translated into a contract, the air chief said. We could have kept negotiating and waiting for something to happen or withdrawn the request for proposal or go in for emergency purchase of 36 planes The government took a bold step and bought 36 jets to offset the capabilities that the adversaries had been acquiring, he said at his customary press conference ahead of Indian Air Force Day on October 8. The cost of the fighters was reasonable and adequate, he added. The NDA governments decision to enter into a deal with France was announced in April 2015 with the deal signed a little over a year later. This replaced the UPA regimes decision to buy 126 Rafale aircraft, 108 of which were to be made in India by HAL using parts imported from France. Dhanoa detailed the time overruns in several crucial HAL programmes, including the Sukhoi- 30s. Su 30 is three years behind, 25 jets are yet to be delivered. Jaguar Darin 3 is six years behind, Light Combat Aircraft (initial operational clearance configuration) is five years behind and the Mirage-2000 upgrade is two years behind, Dhanoa said, describing the delays as a slight lag in the HALs delivery schedule. Dhanoa was responding to questions on a September 20 HT report in which former HAL chairman T Suvarna Raju had said HAL could have built Rafale fighters in India had the government managed to close the original negotiations with Rafale maker Dassault Aviation for 126 fighters. Whether we are happy or unhappy with HAL is in an internal debate. It is not a public debate, he said. Asked if the IAF was consulted before the deal was announced in April 2015, he said, The IAF was consulted at the appropriate level The IAF had given the government some options, and it is the prerogative of the government to choose from those options. The air chief said the Rafale would give the IAF a significant combat edge in the region. As far as politics around Rafale is concerned, I will not comment. All that I can say is its a very good aircraft. And when it comes into the subcontinent it will be a game changer because it has got significant capabilities better than what our regional adversaries have got. And it will also take care of the new aircraft they are likely to induct in the near future, he said. He said the Rafales and the S-400 air defence missile systems being bought from Russia were like a booster dose for the IAF that is grappling with shrinking numbers. The Congress has also alleged that the NDA government selected Anil Ambanis Reliance Group over HAL for an offset deal in the 59,000-crore purchase. Offset deals are struck between the seller and a local supplier directly, and the government has been stressing this fact. On September 21, French website Mediapart quoted former French President Francois Hollande as saying that the Indian government had proposed the name of Anil Ambanis Reliance Group as the offset partner, a claim that was denied by the government. Dhanoa said it was for the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to choose its offset partners and the government and the IAF had nothing to do with it. He said it was a corporate decision for the HAL whether it wanted to do offset work or not. He said 28 of the militarys ongoing 47 offset contracts were related to IAF deals. Together, the offset contracts amount to $ 11.48 billion. Dhanoa said HALs share was only $427 million. And whats most important is that the OEM that has to discharge the offset obligations has to select HAL, he said. On the charge that the fighter was overpriced, he said finance minister Arun Jaitley had given price details and the IAF was sticking to those figures. Jaitley had said the basic fighter was 9% cheaper than the one being negotiated in the previous deal for 126 jets and the overall cost per jet was 20% less. He said, Its pure and simple logic we have a cost negotiating committee that is already at a discovered price and I am sure that it will choose a new price that will be lower it can never ever be higher. The government and the Congress have been trading charges over the deal almost every day. How can you go ahead for the 126 purchase when the main issue of transfer of technology and manufacturing of aircraft is not sorted out? said Dhanoa. The earlier deal fell through because Dassault could not guarantee that HAL would deliver the aircraft it was assembling on time. There was also a disparity between the time Dassault thought it should take HAL to make the planes in India, and the time HAL said it would take. The government on Wednesday increased the minimum support price (MSP) for six winter sown or rabi crops by up to 21%, including a 6 % hike in the support price of wheat to Rs 1,840 a quintal, for the 2018-19 season, in a move aimed at quelling the farmers protest and growing agrarian distress, a key political imperative ahead of elections in key states this year and the parliamentary polls next year. Addressing reporters after a Cabinet meeting, Union law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the decision, which is part of the governments effort to double farmer incomes by ensuring they get at least a 50% return over their cost of production, would help farmers earn an additional income of Rs 62,635 crore. The decision taken by the Cabinet Committee of Economic Affairs (CCEA) comes a day after a massive march of farmers to the national capital, seeking higher support prices and loan waivers (apart from, in the case of sugarcane, speedy payment of the money owed to them by sugar mills). Police had to resort to firing tear gas shells to halt the protest. The farmers called off their protest march on Wednesday saying that the government had met most of their demands. Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh said the MSP for all rabi crops is higher than the cost of production by 50-112%. The CCEA on Wednesday also decided to increase the MSP of barley by Rs 30 per quintal to Rs 1,440 per quintal and that of gram (chana) by Rs 220 per quintal to Rs 4,620 per quintal for the 2018-19 crop season. The support price of masur (lentil) has been raised by Rs 225 to Rs 4,275 per quintal, while the support price of rapeseed/mustard has been hiked by Rs 200 to Rs 4,200 per quintal. Safflower MSP has been increased by Rs 845 per quintal to Rs 4,945. The support price has been increased based on the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices, the farm advisory body. In July, the government increased the paddy MSP by Rs 200 per quintal and also announced a steep hike in support price of other summer sown or kharif crops. The government assured farmers in the Budget for 2018-19 that it would increase MSPs for summer-sown crops to ensure they get at least a 50% return. A crash in the prices of several farm commodities, especially pulses and oilseeds, in recent months has led to distress in the rural economy and triggered farmers protests in several states. Farmers have earned negative returns on many crops amid record harvests. The MSP hikes also come ahead of elections due in BJP-ruled states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan later this year. The Union government has asked Tibetan spiritual leader Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje, who is in the United States, to return to India, an official said on Wednesday. The Karmapa, however, is reluctant to come back to India as he wants restrictions on his movement within the country as well as abroad set aside, he added. The Sikkimese Buddhists who follow the Khagyu sect recognise Dorje, 32, as the real heir and successor of the 16th Karmapa who passed away in 1981. Born in Tibet, he escaped to India through Nepal at the age of 14 in 2000 and reached the Tibetan exile quarters at McLeodganj. Initially it was suspected that he may have been deliberately sent to India by Beijing so that he could become a leader of Tibetans living in exile here, and wean some of them away from the Dalai Lama. Restrictions were put on his movement and he was not allowed to visit the Rumtek Monastery in Sikkim. He is allowed to travel elsewhere in India but has to take the permission of authorities. Dorje uses a Dominican Republic passport for his travel abroad. He is recognised by the Dalai Lama. The government offered him a piece of land in Delhi to build a monastery but he is yet to accept the offer, an official familiar with the development said. The Karmapa wants to build a monastery as his current home in Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh is small, the official said. He is expected to return later this year to attend a meeting of all Buddhist sects in Dharamshala. Chinas construction of underground bomb-proof shelters to house fighters at Lhasas Gonggar airport in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) has New Delhi concerned, said three officials familiar with the development who asked not to be identified. Gonggar airport is just 1,350 km away from New Delhi. The three officials, all in the security establishment, claimed the airfield earlier meant to boost regional connectivity is being turned into a military airbase. One of the officials said a taxi track from the airstrip leads to blast- or bomb-proof hangers dug deep inside the mountains nearby. The facility, according to the three officials, can hold around three squadrons of fighters or about 36 aircraft. Relations between India and China have warmed in recent months. PM Narendra Modi visited Wuhan for an informal summit with Chinese president Xi Jinping where the two leaders committed to bettering ties. The rapprochement came after the Doklam crisis last year, where troops of both countries were engaged in an extended stand-off. Despite this, though, the security establishments have kept a close eye o n each others capabilities. You need blast- or bomb-proof hangers for fighters only if there is a possibility of hostilities. Fighters kept in the open are vulnerable to attacks during hostilities, therefore they are kept safe inside bomb-proof shelters. When required, they are pulled out of the shelters and launched, the second official said, explaining the need of bomb-proof shelters. The Peoples Liberation Army (Air Force) has such facilities along its border with Russia and the underground bomb-proof facilities along the India-China border in the TAR region is a new development, the third official said. Adding to New Delhis discomfort, the officials said, are Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) bases near some of the airfields that are being augmented and expanded along with helicopter bases. For instance, the SAM base near the Shigatse airfield situated across Sikkim has also been augmented. New state-of-the-art helicopter bases that allow helicopters to take off and land with full payload in aviation parlance, this is called in-ground effect take-off and landing have also been noticed by the Indian security establishment. Typically, when aircraft take off from high altitudes, they need to decrease payload to account for the rarefied air that reduces drag and lift. Such bases have come up at Shigatse and Lhasa. The security establishment in New Delhi has been informed about the bomb-proof hangars for fighters , the officials confirmed. It appears that China is improving its defence infrastructure. India, too, should improve its defences and have built-in redundancies to cater for any exigencies, said Lieutenant General S L Narasimhan, member of the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB), a body of experts that advises the Union Cabinet and the National Security Council. India has been upgrading Advanced Landing Grounds (ALG) along its northern borders. These temporary airfields located in Walong, Mechuka, Tuting, Pasighat and Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh were built during the Second World War and have now been refurbished. The Chinese Embassy in New Delhi did not respond to queries on the hangars. A Chinese tourist breached the security at the Taj Mahal on Wednesday and took his drone inside before the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel manning the internal security of heritage monument stopped him from flying it when he reached the Royal Gate of the Taj. Although tourist pleaded innocence, saying he was not aware of the restriction on flying drones in the prohibited area near the Taj Mahal, he was handed over to the tourism police. The tourist was from China and said that he was not able to read instructions written in Hindi and English. That was why he took a drone inside Taj Mahal. He was handed over to tourism police but was allowed to view the monument as there was nothing suspicious about him, said Braj Bhushan, CISF commandant at Taj Mahal. There is high security at the gates of the Taj Mahal and tourists are subjected to extensive frisking by the CISF. No one seemed to have spotted the drone during the security check. The lapse occurred because the packed drone looked like a camera and was missed. But the tourist was not allowed to fly it and was stopped once he took it out after reaching the Royal Gate, said the CISF Commandant. The tourist was identified as Gui Guanxiong from Beijing, aged about 26 years. He expressed ignorance about the restriction on flying drones in no flying zone near the Taj and was interrogated before being allowed to go. The visitor gave a written apology before leaving, said DK Dwiwedi, the officer in charge of tourism police station. In February 2017, the district administration of Agra had prohibited flying drones in the sensitive area around Taj Mahal. The onus was placed on owners of hotels near Taj and they were asked to tell tourists, particularly foreigners, not to fly drones in the prohibited area. Despite the order, there have been several violations and on most occasions, foreigners have been were the offenders. In August, an Israeli tourist staying at a hotel south of the monument flew a drone. The police seized the drone and allowed the tourist to go after a written apology. But a case was registered against the owner and staff of the hotel because they violated the District Magistrates orders. A South Korean professor, Chun Hong Chul, 50, was held for flying a drone over the Taj Mahal on February 22, 2017. He was allowed to leave after submitting an undertaking to cooperate in the matter. Rajeev Saxena, secretary, Tourism Guild of Agra, said there should be better publicity of dos and donts for tourists. He suggested that restriction on drones should be mentioned in visa and a notice should be placed at Taj in different languages. If we can communicate that Taj Mahal remains closed on Friday, then prohibition on flying drones can also be publicized, he said. The Congress on Wednesday dubbed Prime Minister Narendra Modi anti-farmer for the alleged use of force against the protesting farmers at Delhi border on Tuesday, and claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government wanted kisan-mukt Bharat (farmer-free India). Police on Tuesday had halted tens of thousands of farmers, attempting to enter the national capital from Uttar Pradesh demanding better prices and concessions, with the use of water cannons and tear gas shells. Today, only one voice is heard in every corner of this country Narendra Modi - Kisan Virodhi..., Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said on Wednesday. The situation can easily be gauged from the fact that when farmers were being lathi-charged in Delhi, another farmer, Ranveer Singh, from Bhiwani in Haryana breathed his last behind the bars on account of his failure to repay a loan of ~9 lakh. Nothing can be more tragic on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Surjewala added. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he said if justice was not done to the farmers, the crores of starved but awakened farmers will create such a revolution that even the armed forces will fail. These words of Mahatma aptly apply on the present anti-farmer Modi government. Giving deep wounds to the farmers with bullets and baton, this Modi government has become a symbol of cruelty on farmers, he said. The Congress leader also posed ten questions to the Modi government, including why the government had not fulfilled its 2014 promise of cost plus 50% profit to farmers. As per the RBI report, the Modi government waived a loan of ~3,17,000 crore against its crony industrialists... what are the reasons for governments reluctance in waiving the loan of ~62,000 crore of farmers who are the annadata (the provider)...? Since Independence, Surjewala said, no government has ever imposed a tax on agriculture. Then why has the Modi government imposed 5% GST on tractor and agriculture implements, 12% GST on insecticide, 18% GST on tractor tyres and spare parts. A policeman in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras district has been suspended for allegedly sodomising a teenager at a police outpost for 20 days, officials said on Wednesday. Hathras superintendent of police Jai Prakash suspended constable Sanjesh Yadav deployed with Dial 100, the emergency number, and handed over the inquiry in the case to the circle officer of the Kotwali police station. A case has been registered at the Kotwali police station and medical report is awaited of the boy, Prakash said. The boy lodged a complaint at the Kotwali police station after Yadav went on leave on September 30 with the help of another policeman at the Chamar Gate Chowki. The teenager, from Soron town of Kasganj district, worked at a roadside eatery on the Hathras bypass where Yadav came to eat and got acquainted with him. According to the teenagers complaint, Yadav took him to the police post and asked him to cook food for him and later sodomised him. The boy told other policemen at the outpost about the sexual abuse, who advised him to register a complaint against Yadav but he could not gather the courage to go against the constable. The victim was provided with police security and circle officer Suman Kannojia recorded his statement. Inspector in charge JS Panwar registered a case after the boys complaint and sent him for a medical examination to the district hospital on Tuesday night. A case was registered for sodomy and under Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 and Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 against Yadav. UAE-based Unique Group, a leading integrated subsea and offshore solution provider, said its Marine & Subsea division has entered into a high value contract with the Southern African Shipyards to provide a turnkey package for Hydrographic Survey vessels and Hydrographic office set up. The project will include multiple new build vessels - main vessel and support vessels. Unique Group will act as a technology partner to the shipyard and provide the vessels dynamic positioning systems and navigational equipment package, said a statement. As part of the project, Unique Group will also provide complete integration of the hydrographic equipment package, which will include centralised operations between the main vessel and smaller support vessels, it said. The hydrographic office set up onshore will also be updated with new computer hardware and the latest processing software for chart production, data collection, processing, reporting and backup solutions. Unique Group will provide a full package including technical support and relevant operational and maintenance training for the staff. Harry Gandhi, CEO, Unique Group, said: We have always been at the forefront of innovation and customer satisfaction. Our team specialises in working with partners to deliver projects on time and with the best available solution. We are pleased to have been chosen for a significant project to provide complete vessel integration for a reputed client like Southern African Shipyards, he added. Unique Group provides a wide range of bespoke marine and offshore solutions, for subsea and merchant maritime industries around the world. Specialised solutions include - marine automation, cargo management and level sensors, temperature and pressure transmitters, integrated navigation and communication and vessel performance system for the offshore and research segments. TradeArabia News Service The Supreme Court and the Gujarat high court on Wednesday took note of the deaths of 23 lions in the Gir sanctuary since September 20, and sought a response from the Centre and the state government . The Gujarat government has blamed infighting and the spread of a virus for the deaths. Gujarat state forest minister Ganpat Vasava on Tuesday said four of the 23 lions had died because of canine distemper virus (CDV) and reports on the remaining deaths were awaited. Today, we are faced with a peculiar problem. Lions are dying. There seems to be some kind of virus. We do not know. It is coming in newspapers. You find it out, a Supreme Court bench headed by justice Madan B Lokur told additional solicitor general ANS Nadkarni. A Gujarat high court division bench comprising chief justice R Subhas Reddy and justice V M Pancholi , while hearing a public interest litigation related to the deaths of lions in the past two years, said: Court has observed that illegal lion shows, wherein chickens were fed to the cats.., could also be the cause for infection. Amicus curiae (friend of the court) Hemang Shah said the court had asked the state government to implement measures to prevent lion deaths in Gir sanctuary. According to information shared by the state government in the assembly, 184 lions have died in two years due to drowning in wells, electrocution or after being hit by trains. The Supreme Court made the observations while hearing a petition related to re-location of cheetahs from Namibia to India. Advocate Ritwick Dutta drew the courts attention to the lion deaths while opposing the plea to relocate the cheetahs. Dutta said that if there was any kind of virus infection, the entire lion population of Gir would be wiped out and claimed that the manner in which the lions had died caused concern of an epidemic spreading to other animals. What are you doing on the issue of lions? It is very serious, justice Lokur said after hearing Dutta. At present, there are 523 Asiatic lions in Gir. Nadkarni informed the court that the lions cannot be moved outside Gir until the area where they need to be relocated is ready. At this, the bench asked him to find out the cause of the deaths. What if the epidemic spreads further, justice Lokur said, giving time to Nadakarni to submit his response. Gir National Park and Sanctuary, located in the Saurashtra peninsula, is the last abode of the Asiatic lion. Indian Air Force chief BS Dhanoa on Wednesday defended the deal to purchase Rafale fighter jets from France, calling the aircraft a game-changer. We have got a good package, got a lot of advantages in Rafale deal, Dhanoa said in Delhi, rejecting allegations that the fighters were overpriced. The IAF chiefs strong defence of the decision to buy the jets comes against the backdrop of sharp attacks from the Congress-led opposition that accuses the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) of negotiating an overpriced deal to buy 36 fighter jets in flyaway condition from France. He said the orginal negotiations to purchase 126 Rafale jets had hit an impasse and couldnt be translated into a contract. So we could have kept negotiating and waiting for something to happen or withdraw the request for proposal or go in for emergency purchase of 36 planes. The government took a bold step and bought 36 jets, he said at his customary press conference ahead of Indian Air Force Day on October 8. The Congress has also criticised the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government for selecting Anil Ambanis Reliance Group over HAL for an offset deal in the $8.7-billion purchase of the jet initiated in 2016. Dhanoa said Dassault Aviation, Rafales manufacturer, selected the offset partner and the government and Indian Air Force had no role. The air chief also called the purchase of Rafale and the S-400 missile system from Russia as a game changer for the Air Force. The governments decision to enter a $8.7 billion government-to-government deal with France to buy 36 Rafale planes made by Dassault was announced in April 2015. The formal agreement was signed a little over a year later. Finance minister Arun Jaitley had rejected much of the opposition criticism on the deal, insisting that the basic aircraft price finalised by the NDA government was actually 9 per cent cheaper. Fliers to and from the capital city should brace themselves for flight disruptions this winter, with around 100 flights a day likely to be affected in November, when the Delhi airport plans to close one of its three operational runways for repairs. According to an official of Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), runway 27/09, which is also used for VIP operations, will be closed for 13 days starting November 15. This is also the period that the city experiences fog and haze, courtesy the onset of winter and deteriorating air quality. Airlines might have to cancel some flights as Delhi airport is already operating beyond its capacity and will not be in a position to give extra slots. The airport is also likely to witness congestion and the waiting time to land might increase further. The Delhi airport handles around 1300 flights a day. Interestingly, the announcement comes weeks after officials said fliers travelling to and from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Mumbai were likely to face delays if they were scheduled to travel between February 7 and March 30 next year for the same reason work on runways. Around 700 domestic flights are expected to be affected every week during this period and all international flights during this period will be rescheduled. The work will be done on Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays except on March 21, 2019 when there will no runway closure because of the Holi holiday. Mumbai airport handles around 950 flights a day. The only good news for fliers is that the runway work in Indias two busiest airports isnt coinciding. DIAL is planning the closure of Runway 27/09 to carry out preventive repairs. The work is scheduled to be undertaken for 13 day duration starting from 15th November 2018. This will lower the capacity of IGI Airport by 50 arrivals and 50 departures per day in this duration. This work is essential for safe aircraft operations and to avoid sudden disruptions that causes greater impact due to time required for planning the logistics, said a spokesperson for DIAL. The other two runways- at the airport, 10/28 and 11/29 will be available to handle the air traffic but since Delhi airport handles almost 1300 flights every day, handling them with two available runways wont be possible. Combined , the three runways of Delhi airport can handle 75 aircraft an hour, the highest in the country. With the closure of one runway, the capacity per hour is likely to reduce to 60, which means aircrafts will have to wait before landing and take-off. Airlines, especially low cost ones, prefer to use runway 9/27 as it is near Terminal 1, from where they operate most of their flights and not much fuel is required while taxing because of less distance between runway and terminal. According to the International Civil Aviation Organization guidelines, the lifespan of a typical runway pavement worldwide is around 20 years, although airport operators must carry out the necessary repair work once every five to six years to deal with any sign of runway pavement distress or cracks. A Spicejet spokesperson said Departures will be affected while in Delhi during the repair work, 15 flights will be affected everyday. The airline did not make it clear whether these flights will be cancelled or rescheduled. Former railway minister Mukul Roy will be convener of the Bharatiya Janata Partys election management committee in West Bengal, the party announced Wednesday. A former confidant of West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, Roy was credited with building a strong organisational network of the Trinamool Congress that eventually ended the uninterrupted 34-year rule of the Left Front in the state. Roy, who enjoyed the number 2 status in Trinamool Congress, crossed over to the BJP in November last year after he fell out with Banerjee, who was seen promoting her parliamentarian nephew Abhishek Banerjee within the party hierarchy. Arvind Menon, an RSS leader, who worked in Madhya Pradesh as BJPs general secretary (organization) for years has been made the co in-charge of party affairs for West Bengal. He will assist partys general secretary in-charge, Kailash Vijayvargiya, another fellow politician from Madhya Pradesh. Menon was shifted out of Madhya Pradesh in April 2016 and made the in-charge of BJPs department and projects. Menon, too, has experience in working within the BJPs organisation set-up and is credited with helping strengthen partys network in the central state. The assembly election in West Bengal is due in 2021. The BJP, currently, has two members of parliament from West Bengal, SS Ahluwalia and Babul Supriyo, who are members of the union council of ministers. Party president Amit Shah recently claimed that the BJP will win 22 out of 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal. Health minister JP Nadda has been appointed the in-charge for Telangana, another state where the BJPs is eying expansion. Local elections in Telangana are likely to be held later this year. Petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan will be BJPs election in-charge for Madhya Pradesh and Prakash Javadekar for Rajasthan. The Kerala high court on Wednesday dismissed the bail plea of former Jalandhar bishop Franco Mulakkal, arrested for the alleged rape of a 43-year-old nun multiple times between 2014 and 2016. Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan dismissed the bail plea, accepting the prosecutions argument that Mulakkal, who holds a high position in society, may try to influence witnesses in the case if he was granted bail. Police said the investigation in the case are still progressing after the arrest of Malakkal on September 21. The court also took note of the prosecutions submission that the investigation was at a crucial stage and more statements by fellow nuns of Malakkarls accuser have to be recorded before a magistrate. The bishop moved the high court after a magistrates court in Pala rejected his bail application, in which he said he had been implicated for taking action against the nun. He is currently under judicial remand in a sub-jail in Pala in Kottayam district. In June, the nun, also a mother superior, had complained to the police that Mulakkal, 54, had raped her 13 times between 2014 and 2016. The nun is a member of the Missionaries of Jesus congregation based in Punjab which runs three convents in Kerala. Mulakkal is the first bishop in the country to be sent to jail on charges of rape. He has denied the allegations, terming them a conspiracy against the church. Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar, who is battling a pancreatic ailment, will meet his cabinet colleagues in hospital over the next fortnight to discuss a possible redistribution of portfolios. The CM, who is receiving treatment at New Delhis All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), had earlier claimed that he was not in a position to continue to discharge his duties and hinted at redistribution of his portfolios. The move comes after the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership placated its allies, the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) and the Goa Forward Party (GFP), who had made their participation in the government, formed after elections last year, contingent on Parrikar being chief minister. The focus has now shifted to a more permanent solution to fill the administrative vacuum caused by the absence of Parrikar, who was shifted to AIIMS in mid-September, days after he returned from a US hospital. He will meet cabinet colleagues. Basically some kind of a conclusion needs to [be arrived at]. Whatever he is going to do, he will do after October 10..., said agriculture minister, Vijai Sardesai, of the GFP, who met the CM Monday. Earlier, state BJP president, Vinay Tendulkar, expressed confidence that Parrikar will return to the state. The CM will come back; we cannot tell you the exact date, but he will return. Next week we are travelling to Delhi. We will meet him..., he said. The cabinet ministers have decided to meet without the chief minister at the secretariat every week to review the situation in the state, a move seen as a means to prevent the Congress from capitalising on the current impasse. The Congress called the plan a mockery. None of the current ministers have the power to grant financial sanction... The ministers have become dolls, state Congress president Girish Chodankar said, adding that a redistribution of portfolios would not change anything. Independent political commentator Prabhakar Timble argued, The most significant issue is to provide an incumbent to the headless and rudderless cabinet. We need to admit that Goa does not have a CM in practice for over three months. A red alert has been issued for October 7 in three districts of Kerala after the Met department predicted extremely heavy rainfall in certain areas of the state on the same date, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Wednesday. A cyclonic storm along the Lakshwadweep Coast has also been forecast by the Indian Meteorological Department. The red alert has been issued in Idukki, Thrissur and Palakkad, some of the worst hit areas in Kerala floods that took place in August this year. The Met department also predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas between October 3 to October 6. Met Centre has predicted that heavy (7-11 cm in 24 hours) to very heavy (12-20 cm in 24 hours) rainfall is likely to occur at 1 or 2 places in Kerala on 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th of October. Extremely heavy rainfall (21 cm & above in 24 hrs) is likely to occur at 1 or 2 places on 7th, Kerala CMO tweeted. Fishermen have been advised to reach safer coast by 5 Oct. Warning has been issued. Red alert has been declared in 3 districts for 7 Oct. Disaster Mgmt Authority has met to assess the situation. Weve sought support from central agencies&asked for 5 companies of NDRF, Vijayan said, according to news agency ANI. The Kerala Chief Minister further said that the IMD has issued a warning about a low-pressure area in the Arabian sea, close to Sri Lankan coast, which is likely to develop into a cyclonic storm adding that the predicted trajectory will be along the coast of Lakshadweep. A warning has been issued on the same. Kerala is still struggling to recover from the impact of the flood that hit the state May-end to mid-August this year claiming around 483 lives and forcing at least 14.50 lakh persons to take refugee in over 3,000 relief camps across the state. Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi on Wednesday raised the bar for cases to be mentioned before his bench for an urgent hearing. If somebody is going to be killed, evicted or hanged today, only such cases will be entertained to list them urgently, the new chief justice said minutes after taking oath at a simple ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavans Darbar Hall. Chief Justice Gogoi will have a tenure of a little over 13 months. Starting his innings as the countrys top judge at the Supreme Court, the new Chief Justice declined to attend to cases pertaining to illegal allotment of land in Haryana, an insolvency matter and a matrimonial dispute. The CJI also said he is working out a new mechanism for mentioning matters for urgent listing and will come up with new parameters. At the same time, the Chief Justice has also decided that cases need to be argued the moment they come up for hearing and not deferred. The practice of letting lawyers mention urgent cases before the Chief Justices bench is designed to provide an opportunity to people to fast track the first hearing of cases. Over a period of time, many routine cases were also flagged before the bench which took away the courts precious time. Former Chief Justice Dipak Misra also had attempted to streamline the practice earlier this year. In January, he had directed that only junior lawyers would be allowed to mention cases before his bench. He was addressing a complaint from younger lawyers that they didnt get a chance to flag their cases before senior lawyers appeared to get priority. Chief Justice Misra had later asked lawyers to first mention matters for urgent hearing before the registrar and approach the Chief Justices court if they are aggrieved by the registrars order. Chief Justice Gogoi has said he wants to focus on dealing with the rising backlog of cases clogging up the courts and providing access to justice to the poor. Two things are troubling me--pendency of case, which brings in a lot of disrepute to courts, and providing justice to poverty-stricken population, Justice Gogoi said last week in his keynote address in New Delhi at an interactive session on the Role of Bar and Bench in Social Engineering, organised by the Youth Bar Association of India. In civil cases, parties get relief after two or three generations. I have a plan to tackle it and request everyones support, he said on an increasing number of civil cases that add to pendency. In a setback to efforts for Opposition unity ahead of state polls leading up to the 2019 general elections, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Wednesday ruled out an alliance with the Congress in two key states and launched a furious attack on the leadership of the grand old party. The Congress is two steps ahead of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in attempts to finish the BSP politically, Mayawati said in a statement read out to ANI, accusing it of trying to undermine other Opposition parties. The Congress reacted cautiously, expressing the hope that differences will be sorted out. In the interest of the BSP movement, it has been decided that the party would not ally with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan at any cost, Mayawati said. In Karnataka, we tied up with a regional party. In Chhattisgarh too, we did the same. In Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, we may go with regional parties there, but certainly not with Congress. MP, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh are key states that will vote later this year in what is a precursor to next years Lok Sabha polls. Mayawatis decision to spurn a tie-up with the Congress in MP and Rajasthan, on top of Chhattisgarh, bodes ill for Opposition unity in the Lok Sabha polls and could be a morale-booster for the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Her snub to the Congress could also cast a shadow on efforts to forge a Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) of Opposition parties, including the BSP, Samajwadi Party and the Congress, in the Lok Sabha elections from BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh, which sends more MPs (80) than any other state to the 543-member Lok Sabha. Significantly, Mayawati spared Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his mother and United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi from her tirade, in which she principally targeted senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh, whom she called a BJP agent who is opposed to any tie-up between the two parties. I feel Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhis intentions for Congress-BSP alliance are honest. But some Congress leaders are sabotaging this, Mayawati said. The Congress was encouraged by her seemingly conciliatory remarks towards its top leadership. She has expressed mutual respect and reposed her confidence in Soniaji and Rahulji, Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala told reporters. That is the most important issue rather than reading multiple meanings in her statement. We respect her sentiments, Surjewala said. Once the two leaders have an amicable, respectable and fruitful relationship with each other, all other creases can be ironed out. If the three leaders (Sonia, Rahul and Mayawati) are on the same page, no fourth person can disturb that equation, he said, in an apparent reference to Singh, a former MP chief minister. Congress leaders said Mayawatis statement should be seen as a pressure tactic to ensure a good bargain for the BSP in all the poll-bound states in terms of seat-sharing arrangements. Even so, Mayawatis strong statement is expected to dampen the spirits of Opposition parties in taking on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the 2019 polls; they had pinned much hope on the proposed Mahagathbandhan in Uttar Pradesh to oust the BJP from power at the Centre. Chances of the grand alliance taking shape had brightened after a warm and affectionate hug between Sonia Gandhi and Mayawati at the swearing-in ceremony of Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy in May this year. Mayawatis remarks drew a prompt response from former Uttar Pradesh chief minister and Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav, who urged the Congress to display magnanimity and take along other political parties in the common quest of defeating the BJP. I am saying even today that the Congress should show its large-heartedness, and it should contest elections by taking along all the political parties who have similar thoughts and ideology, he told reporters in Lucknow. If there is any delay, then there is a possibility that other parties may declare their candidates. After this, they (Congress) will be levelling allegations that they colluded with the BJP, Yadav said. The SP chief also said he knows the BSP does not take any decision out of fear of anyone. Digvijaya Singh responded by tagging a September 20 news report stating that the BSP supremo also declared candidates for 22 seats in Madhya Pradesh and said that her party will contest all 230 seats in the state. Mayawati had made this announcement while declaring an alliance with Ajit Jogis Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (JCC). Now how am I responsible for sabotaging Congress BSP Alliance? Singh asked on Twitter. Mayawatis attack on the Congress handed the BJP fresh ammunition. What relations Congress has with others is their matter but all I can say is that coalition is not in the DNA of the Congress. The only thing in their DNA is family, Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said. A Congress functionary said on condition of anonymity that the BSP had demanded 50 seats in MP and 15 in Chhattisgarh. We were willing to concede nine in Chhattisgarh and 20-22 in Madhya Pradesh. As far as Rajasthan is concerned, our state unit has from the beginning opposed a tie-up with any party, he said. Mayawati said the Congress had offered only 15 to 20 of the 230 seats to the BSP in MP and five of the 90 seats in Chhattisgarh. Had the Congress not adopted an adamant attitude, she said, it could have got the benefit of an alliance with the BSP, whose votes are entirely transferable. In such alliances, the BSP suffers the most rather than getting any benefits, she added. The BSP chief insisted that the Congresss attitude was not to defeat the BJP but to weaken other Opposition parties. That is unfortunate. The Congress had adopted similar tactics in the past and is continuing it now. Even now it is not trying to change itself, she said. Mayawati said Digvijaya Singh had been giving statements that she was under a lot of pressure from the NDA government and so did not want an alliance with the Congress. This is baseless. Congress leaders like Digvijaya Singh do not wish for a Congress-BSP alliance. They are afraid of agencies like the ED (Enforcement Directorate, CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation), she said. Mayawati said the BSP was a party of all communities, including Dalits, tribals, backward classess, downtrodden, farmers, labourers, Muslims and other minorities. We are not going to bow at any cost before either the BJP or the Congress. It will not be the puppet in the hands of anyone. We still have the capacity to bounce back, she said. Coming down heavily on the Congress, Mayawati said, Congress is not learning lessons from its mistakes and this is the reason why the BJP is in power at the Centre and in many states. The Congress is under an illusion and feeling arrogant that it will defeat the BJP on its own. But it does not realise that still the people are against Congress policies. In a direct fight with the Congress, she said, the BJP would win easily. Even then the Congress does not place the non-BJP parties ahead and is not ready to make alliances with Opposition parties to take on BJP. At the same time, she accused the BJP of engaging in politics of casteism and communalism. There is tension in society. Violence is happening. A situation of anarchy is prevailing, Mayawati said. Despite this, Congress is not ready to change itself. The BSP has always backed Congress to keep the BJP out of power and has suffered on account of it. Instead of being thanked for it, BSP has been back-stabbed by the Congress, which has been hatching conspiracies to weaken non-BJP parties, she alleged. Asked whether the BSP would align with the Congress in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Mayawati replied, I have said everything about this. Political analyst Badri Narayan of the Allahabad-based GB Pant Institute of Social Sciences said it was important to distinguish between the BSP chiefs stand in poll-bound states and in Uttar Pradesh. She wanted the BSP to be recognised as an important player in MP, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. The Congress did not do that which explains her aggression. But the impact of this on UP politics is not clear yet. Her stand in UP could be different, for she recognises the importance of an alliance. Air Force Chief BS Dhanoa on Wednesday questioned the ability of state-owned plane maker Hindustan Aeronautics Limiteds ability to deliver fighter jets on schedule, detailing the time overrun is several crucial programmes including the Sukhoi- 30s, Jaguars, Mirage-2000s and the Light Combat Aircraft. In the Sukhoi-30... (HAL) is three years behind. 25 are yet to be delivered. In Jaguar Darin III, we are six years behind. In the LCA (initial operational clearance configuration), we are five years behind and in Mirage-200 upgrade, we are two years behind, Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa said. He was responding to questions on a September 20 HT report in which former HAL chairman T Suvarna Raju had said HAL could have built Rafale fighters in India had the government managed to close the original negotiations with Dassault Aviation for 126 fighters. I am grateful to HAL for the support it provided to Exercise Gagan Shakti. As far as other issues are concerned, there has been a slight lag in HALs delivery schedule, he said at his customary press conference ahead of IAF Day on October 8. The NDA governments decision to enter into a government-to-government deal with France to buy 36 Rafale warplanes was announced in April 2015 with the deal signed a little over a year later. This replaced the UPA regimes decision to buy 126 Rafale aircraft, 108 of which were to be made in India by HAL using parts imported from France. Whether the IAF is happy or unhappy with HAL is for internal debate. It is not a subject of public debate, Dhanoa said. He said the original negotiations for 126 jets had hit an impasse and couldnt be translated into a contract and the government took a bold step and ordered 36 jets. He also defended the deal to purchase Rafale fighter jets from France, calling the aircraft a game-changer. The government and the Congress have been trading charges over the controversial Rs 59,000-crore purchase almost every day. Dhanoa said the 126 jet talks had hit an impasse. How can you go ahead for the 126 purchase when the main issue of transfer of technology and manufacturing of aircraft is not sorted out, said Dhanoa. The earlier deal fell through because Dassault could not guarantee that HAL would deliver the aircraft it was assembling on time. There was a huge disparity between the time Dassault thought it should take HAL to make the planes in India, and the time HAL said it would take. Dhanoa questioned the ability of state owned plane maker Hindustan Aeronautics Limiteds ability to deliver fighter jets on time, detailing the time overrun is several programmes including the Sukhoi 30s, Jaguars, Mirage 2000s and the Light Combat Aircraft. The former HAL had last month told HT that when HAL can build a 25-tonne Sukhoi-30, a fourth-generation fighter jet that forms the mainstay of the air force, from raw material stage, HALs capability could not be questioned. Then what are we talking about? We could have definitely done it (licence produced the Rafale jets), Raju, who retired on September 1, had told HT. Sami A Al-Nuaim, manager of Saudi Aramcos Petroleum Engineering Application Services department, was named president of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) for 2019 at SPE's Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) in Dallas last week. In addition, four Aramco researchers received distinguished awards, and company staff contributed to about 20 scientific papers and panels, said an Aramco statement. Al-Nuaim delivered a keynote address about the importance to the energy industry reaching talented students, harnessing technological change, and quantifying and communicating the industrys outstanding global sustainability performance. Al-Nuaims election marks the second time a Saudi Aramco petroleum engineer has been named to lead the distinguished professional organisation since it was officially formed in 1957 from the predecessor organisation, the American Institute of Mining Engineers (AIME), which dates back to 1871. Speaking to an audience of more than 8,000 attending the annual conference, Al-Nuaim spoke of the oil and gas industrys focus on energy sustainability as a means of correcting public misconceptions and attracting new talent. We are dedicated to enabling innovation through the application of science and imagination. Thats how we contribute to our communities, our industry, our world, Al-Nuaim said. At Saudi Aramco, we believe that innovation is the key to helping people reap the benefits from all the opportunities inherent in our resources and their resultant products. Al-Nuaim said the industry has made continuous progress reducing its carbon footprint, and cited the work of the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative (OGCI), an organisation of industry leaders including main founding member Saudi Aramco, committed to reducing the collective, average methane intensity of their core upstream operations to below 2.25 percent by 2025. He noted that the addition of three major US oil and gas companies into OGCI is a major milestone. Al-Nuaim said that he also plans to build strong bridges between geoscience schools around the world to share top academic programs and curricula and strengthen their programs by reflecting recent advances in technology and engagement with communities. This interaction, he said, will help produce citizen engineers who innovate, advance the industry, and most importantly, care about the community and environment. Also at SPE ATCE, Faisal N Al-Nughaimish, manager of Saudi Aramcos Gas Drilling department, joined SPEs board after the three-year term of Khalid A Zainalabedin, manager of the Reservoir Description and Simulation Department, ended. The leadership roles held by Saudi Aramco officials are a reflection of the important membership base the SPE has in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East and a long, mutually beneficial relationship between the SPE and the company, said Aramco. Al-Nuaim joined SPE back in 1983 when he was a student at King Fahad University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM). He is one of many Aramco engineers who have had made significant contributions to the organisations scientific fronts. Saudi Aramco has been a longtime supporter of SPE, which has about 150,000 members worldwide. During the conference, the company showcased its leadership position in the upstream world, while also telling stakeholders about the diversification of its business portfolio especially in regard to research and development globally and in the US. Recognizing their service to the industry, SPE gave awards to four Aramco employees: Anuj Gupta, Petroleum Engineering consultant with Aramco Services Company (ASC), received the prestigious DeGolyer Distinguished Service Medal. Ghaithan A Al-Muntasheri, chief of technology at the EXPEC Advanced Research Center, and Ashraf M Al-Tahini, director of Research and Development at ASC, were awarded SPE Distinguished Membership Awards. Zeid M. Ghareeb, a Saudi Aramco petroleum engineer, received SPEs Young Member Outstanding Service Award. Multiple technical papers to which Saudi Aramco researchers and engineers contributed were discussed, along with best practices for training and development. Sunil L Kokal, a principal professional with Saudi Aramcos EXPEC Advanced Research Center, and Salam P Salamy, administrator of Saudi Aramcos Upstream Professional Development Center, led an engaging panel discussion about continuing education, knowledge transfer, and the shifting profile of engineers. - TradeArabia News Service India and Russia are likely to sign a $2.5 billion deal for four more Krivak/Talwar class stealth frigates for the navy on Friday when Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin meet for the annual India-Russia summit, two senior officials familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. Two of the warships will be constructed at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad and the remaining two at the Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). HT had reported on September 12 that the deal was likely to be inked during the summit. India inked an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) with Russia for the four frigates in 2016. The navy currently operates six stealth frigates three Talwar class and three Teg class bought from Russia and inducted between 2003 and 2013. The new Grigorovich-class Project 1135.6 frigates will be powered by gas turbine engines to be supplied by Ukrainian firm Ukroboronproms Gas Turbine Research & Production Complex Zorya-Mashproekt. The two countries will also sign a Rs 39,000-crore deal for the supply of Russian S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems to India. The S-400 is capable of destroying incoming aerial targets at a range of 400km. Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who was on an official visit to Kazakhstan and Krgystan till Oct 6, cut short her visit to attend the India-Russia summit, said an official familiar with the development. India is in talks with the US to secure a sanctions waiver as its military is heavily dependent on Russian equipment. Air force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said the Countering Americas Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) was unlikely to come in the way of the deal. He said the first deliveries would take place after two years of the signing of the contract. The Assam government on Wednesday sent seven Myanmar nationals from detention camp in Silchar to Imphal from where they would be deported to Myanmar before Thursday noon, a top government official said. This will be the first such official deportation from India to Myanmar. The seven had left the detention camp on Wednesday morning for Manipur from where they will be sent back through a border post, deputy commissioner of Cachar district, S Lakshmanan said. They are widely believed to be Rohingya Muslims but no government official was willing to go on record about the ethnicity of the deportees. The Myanmar border at Moreh, is about 50 km south of Imphal. They seven had been held at the Silchar central prison in Cachar district since 2012 on charges of illegal entry. They are likely to be moved across the border around noon on Thursday, said an officer of the Border Organisation of Assam Police, which deals with detection of foreigners. The deportation came after a last ditch effort by advocate Prashant Bhushan for an urgent hearing of a PIL in the Supreme Court to restrain the government from deporting Rohingya refugees failed. It is a routine process. We sent back a Pakistani, an Afghani and 52 Bangladeshis recently, said Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta, additional director general, Border Organisation. According to a state intelligence officer, there are about 32 Rohingya refugees in detention camps in Assam. At least 15 of them including seven minors are in Tezpur. According to documents of the detention camp that HT has accessed, they are from Rakhine state in Myanmar and were apprehended in 2014 by the government railway police. Last week, Centre had asked all states to take biometric details of Rohingya refugees and other illegal immigrants living in their jurisdiction as part of a country-wide security exercise. The presence of Rohingya is confined not only to the northeastern states. They have reached south Indian states including Kerala, Union home minister Rajnath Singh had recently said, calling all Rohingyas in India illegal immigrants. Hundreds of minority Rohingya refugees have been killed in the northern Rakhine province of Myanmar by the military in alleged ethnic cleansing, setting of an exodus with lakhs taking shelter in camps in Bangladesh. The UNHCR which had requested access to detained Rohingya refugees in Assam, have not been given permission by the government so far. Ahead of the deportation, a UN human rights expert had expressed alarm at the governments deportation plan saying returning the seven Rohingya refugeesto Myanmar could violate international law. Given the ethnic identity of the men, this is a flagrant denial of their right to protection and could amount to refoulement, said the UN Special Rapporteur on racism, Tendayi Achiume. The Indian Government has an international legal obligation to fully acknowledge the institutionalised discrimination, persecution, hate and gross human rights violations these people have faced in their country of origin and provide them the necessary protection. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh on Wednesday appeared to criticise the Kerala government for rushing to implement the Supreme Court verdict on entry of women into Sabarimala temple, underscoring that the sentiments of devotees cannot be ignored while considering the verdict. In a statement, the RSS also called upon all the stakeholders including spiritual and community leaders to come together to analyse and address the issue availing judicial options also. They must convey their concerns on their right to worship in a manner which best suits their faith and devotion, to the authorities in a peaceful manner, the statement by RSS general secretary, Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi, said. The statement comes just a day after the Kerala BJP called for a meeting at Kochi on Monday next to firm up strategy and floated the demand for filing a review petition in the Supreme Court. The BJP unit also asked the Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to bring in an ordinance to reverse the impact of the top courts verdict. The Supreme Court had opened the doors of Sabarimala to women of all ages in a 4-1 judgment on Friday, annulling the centuries-old tradition of the temple to deny the right of worship to women aged between 10 and 50 years. The RSS said while everyone respects the different temple traditions followed by devotees in India, we have to also honour the Honourable Supreme Court. In this case, however, it underlined that it is an issue of a local temple tradition and faith to which sentiments of millions of devotees, including women, are attached. These sentiments of the devotees cannot be ignored while considering the judgement, the court said. Unfortunately, the Kerala Government has taken steps to implement the judgement with immediate effect without taking the sentiments of the devotees into consideration. There is an obvious reaction to the same by the devotees, especially women, who are protesting against the forceful breaking of the tradition, the RSS statement said. Hours earlier, the Kerala chief minister had described calls for protests against the verdict as a serious matter and stressed that his government had to abide by the verdict of the Supreme Court. It is the responsibility of the government to implement the court order without any compromise. We will ensure to make necessary arrangements for the women devotees in the upcoming season itself, Pinarayi Vijayan said. Wednesdays statement from the RSS is seen to be in sharp contrast to the Sanghs earlier stated position of backing womens equality. In 2016, after the annual meeting of the Sanghs highest decision making body, the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha, the Joshi had said: Because of some unfair traditions, at certain places there has been a lack of consensus on the question of temple entry. Such sensitive issues should be resolved through discussion and dialogue and not through agitations. Women go to thousands of temple across the country but in reference to some, where their entry is an issue; there is a need to change the mentality. Management of such temples should also understand this, he had said. Is the RSSs fresh statement is an indication that the Sangh is hedging its bets? J Nandakumar, a senior RSS functionary and national convenor of Prajna Pravah said the Hindu faith does not believe in gender discrimination, but the issue has upset the devotees. The judgment should have considered the sentiments of the devotees. While Hinduism is not monolithic, each temple has its own traditions on account of social and historical reasons. Therefore, there cannot be a blanket judgment. It is the right of devotees to come up with a solution, he said. Historian Mridula Mukherjee said the issue of women being discriminated against has been dealt with by the court and their decision should be respected. We need to respect the SC judgment because the court has gone into all the aspects of the issue to do away with discrimination against women, she said. Govt agrees to farmers demand of keeping tractors out of NGT list: GS Shekhawt NGTs order is that diesel vehicles more than 10 years old cant enter Delhi NCR. Farmers demanded that their tractors are equipment of agriculture and should be kept out of vehicles list. The government has agreed to this demand and the Centre will make efforts with UP, Delhi and Haryana governments about this: Union minister GS Shekhawat to ANI Ghaziabad traffic movement should normalise, says DM Ghaziabad district magistrate tweeted on Wednesday that following the end of farmers agitation, traffic movement should normalise. After rounds of meetings, Kisan Yatra agitation ended yesterday night and all have moved back to their destinations. District Traffic movement should normalise today .. DM Ghaziabad (@dm_ghaziabad) October 3, 2018 Schools in Ghaziabad shut on Wednesday Schools and educational institutions in Ghaziabad are shut on Wednesday as a preventive measure according to an earlier announcement by the district magistrate. Everyone left Delhi by 6 am, says Delhi police official DCP (East) Pankaj Singh said around five thousand farmers who were left were given entry into the national capital. Everyone left the city by 6 am on Wednesday. . The 'Kisan Kranti Padyatra' that started on Sept 23 had to end at Delhi's Kisan Ghat. Since Delhi police didn't allow us to enter we protested. Our aim was to finish the yatra which has been done. Now we'll go back to our villages: Naresh Tikait, President, Bharatiya Kisan Union pic.twitter.com/P7xvF4YTFI ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2018 Protesting farmers allowed to enter Delhi, end their 10-day-old march Thousands of farmers ended their 10-day Kisan Kranti Yatra early on Wednesday morning after they were allowed to enter Delhi, police said. New Delhi The Maharshtra government moved the Supreme Court on Wednesday, challenging the Delhi high court order allowing Gautam Navlakha, one of the five rights activists arrested in connection with the Bhima Koregaon case, to be freed from house arrest. The plea was filed in the apex court registry challenging the high court order, Nishant Katneshwar, counsel for the Maharashtra government, told PTI. The high court had on Monday freed Navlakha from house arrest, five weeks after he and four other rights activists were arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima violence in Maharashtra. The Maharashtra government said in the petition that the high court had misread the CrPC while allowing Navlakha to be freed from house arrest. Granting relief to the 65-year-old activist, the high court had also quashed the trial courts transit remand order which he had challenged before the matter was taken to the Supreme Court. The case in hand depicts misreading of section 167 (1) and (2) of Code of Criminal Procedure by the High Court while passing the impugned order, said the petition filed by Shivaji Panditrao Pawar, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Pune. Section 167 (1) states that in case an accused is to be produced before the jurisdictional magistrate, then it is incumbent upon the police to produce the case diary. The plea said that in case the police applies for transit remand before a Magistrate having no jurisdiction, then it is not necessary for the police to produce the case diary. In the case in hand, the police arrested five persons from different places in the country. It was, therefore, not expected and not possible to produce the case diary before the concerned Courts, the plea said. The plea said that the high court has erred in stating that there was non-application of mind by the chief metropolitan magistrate in passing the order of transit remand, it said. It needs to be seen that, while passing the order of transit remand the magistrate had gone through the application filed by the police and he had heard the concerned police officer. It is not possible/pragmatic to mention minute details while passing the order of remand, it said. The plea also said that when the Supreme Court had extended the period of house arrest by four weeks it was not necessary to observe about end of house arrest. It also claimed that the high court has erred in allowing the petition of Navlakha by setting aside the order of remand. It is pertinent to note that, neither was there a prayer to set aside the order of remand nor was there any amendment to that effect. The writ petition was filed seeking a writ of habeas corpus only, it said. It further said that the high court has erred in entertaining the plea and it was clearly against the law. The plea also claimed that the high court has erred in doubting the procedure of arrest and the police had followed the procedure while arresting as well as while seeking transit remand. The high court had said that Navlakhas detention had exceeded 24 hours which was untenable. The bench of Justices S Muralidhar and Vinod Goel, while setting aside the August 28 order of the chief metropolitan magistrate granting Navlakha transit remand, had said there was non-compliance of basic provisions of the Constitution and the CrPC which were mandatory in nature. The bench also said the trial court order was unsustainable in law. However, the high court had made it clear that the order will not preclude the state of Maharashtra from proceeding further. Navlakha was arrested from the national capital by the Maharashtra police on August 28. The other four activists were arrested from different parts of the country. They were arrested in connection with an FIR lodged following a conclave -- Elgaar Parishad -- held on December 31 last year that had allegedly triggered violence later at Koregaon-Bhima village in the state. The five activists -- Varavara Rao, Arun Ferreira, Vernon Gonsalves, Sudha Bharadwaj and Gautam Navlakha -- were put under house arrest on August 29 following an apex court order on the plea by historian Romila Thapar, economists Prabhat Patnaik and Devaki Jain, sociology professor Satish Deshpande and human rights lawyer Maja Daruwala against the police action. PTI West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday ordered an investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) into the blast in a Kolkata suburb on Tuesday that killed a boy and injured several others. The Bengal unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) dismissed the CID probe as an eyewash and demanded a probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which it claimed can expose the truth as it did in the Burdwan blast of October 2014. CID West Bengal took up investigation of the Nagerbazar explosion case, said a statement issued by Nishat Pervez, deputy inspector general (operations) of CID. Ordering CID probe is an eyewash that is also aimed at tampering with evidences. I am writing to Union home minister Rajnath Singh demanding an NIA probe immediately, BJP Bengal unit president Dilip Ghosh said. Ghosh justified the demand for a probe by the NIA saying, In the October 2014 Burdwan blast too.., an NIA investigation exposed a network of foreign terrorists spreading tentacles across various districts and also neighbouring states. On Wednesday morning, senior CID officials including its additional director general, inspector general and special superintendent visited the blast site at Dumdum. Officials of the Central Forensic Science Laboratory also went to the spot to collect evidence. CID officers also collected samples. The BJP state president also alleged that the state police washed the area on Tuesday and that must have removed evidence. The ruling Trinamool Congress had alleged that the blast was the handiwork of the BJP and its ideological mentor, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Both the BJP and the RSS have denied the claim. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawatis announcement that her party will go it alone in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan will turn the electoral contest into a triangular one as the party enjoys significant support in at least one-third of the total assembly constituencies in the two states. The BSP will contest in an alliance with Ajit Jogis Janata Congress in Chhattisgarh. The Congress was keen to ally with the BSP in the three states to prevent any division in the anti-incumbency votes against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BSPs decision may help the BJP, especially in the constituencies where the contest will be close, political analysts said. The BSPs vote share in the three states has fluctuated between 3% and 8% , but the party has pockets of influences. For instance, in northern Madhya Pradesh bordering Uttar Pradesh, the party has, in the past, won up to 20% of the total votes polled, winning seven of the 34 seats in the region in 2008. The party has a significant vote-bank in the eastern region of the state. Even though the scheduled caste population in Madhya Pradesh is 15.6%, the BSP has not been able to get that percentage of votes. In the 2013 assembly elections, the party contested on all 227 seats and polled 6.29% votes winning four seats. It got about three percentage points less than in 2008 polls when it won seven seats. However, in 40 assembly seats the combined votes polled for Congress and BSP in 2013 was more than the votes polled for the winning BJP. Similarly, in Rajasthan the party has a sizeable vote-bank among Dalits in the Alwar-Bharatpur and Shekhawati regions, where it received about 10% of the total votes polled in 2008. However, its vote share in the 2013 polls in these regions fell by half. The BSPs overall vote share in Rajasthan in 2013 was 3.37%, compared to 7.6% in 2008, when it won six seats. The scheduled caste population in Rajasthan is about 18%, although this population is dominant in about 60 of the 200 assembly seats. In five districts of Ganganagar, Bikaner, Dholpur, Karauli and Bharatpur, the SC population is more than 21%. Mayawati said the Congress was offering her party only nine seats in Rajasthan and 25 in Madhya Pradesh. We have noticed that whenever we contest in alliance, all our votes get transferred to Congress, she said. Congress leaders in Rajasthan had opposed the move to partner with the BSP saying it would adversely impact their partys future in the state. In Madhya Pradesh, the Congress leaders felt that the BSPs demand for 50 seats was unrealistic. Congress leaders in the two states refused to comment on BSPs announcement saying only central leaders would speak on the issue. They, however, said the contest would still be between the BJP and the Congress. The BJP was delighted at the turn of events. Rajasthan BJP spokesperson Satish Poonia said the Congress and the BSP were trying to forge an unnatural alliance. Madhya Pradesh BJP spokesperson Rajneesh Agrawal said: The intellectuals associated with the BSP must have convinced its chief that association with the Congress would do immense damage to the party. Bhopal based political analyst Girija Shankar said: It is too early to say how much it (BSP going alone in two states) will affect the results but Congress has suffered a jolt in its attempt to create the perception that it is going for a grand alliance against the BJP. The BSP chief has sent out a message that her party was fighting more against the Congress than the BJP. More than 200 patients were evacuated and medicines worth Rs 5 crore gutted after a fire broke out in the pharmacy of the state-run Calcutta Medical College and Hospitals main building here Wednesday morning, fire officials said. No one was injured in the blaze that broke out at 8.30am on the ground floor. However, a patient, who had been evacuated, died after being transferred to the emergency department, his family said. Hospital authorities did not comment on the death till the filing of the report. Ten fire tenders took nearly five hours to douse the fire. Established in 1835, Calcutta Medical College is Indias oldest institute practising allopathic medicine. The affected building houses the departments of haematology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, internal medicine and cardiology. Thick smoke was seen billowing from the ground floor of building . Medicines stocked in the dispensary were reduced to ashes. West Bengals minister of state for health Chandrima Bhattacharya told reporters that more than 200 patients have been shifted to other wards in the hospital as well as to other hospitals. Medicines stored in the pharmacy have been wasted but the stocks are being replenished, Bhattacharya added. Hospital staff said they began evacuation as soon as they spotted smoke. When I saw the smoke I raised an alarm and evacuation started almost immediately, said Shankar Rao, a temporary staff. Jag Mohan, director general of fire services, said the flames were brought under control by 1.45 pm. A thorough investigation will be conducted to detect the source of fire, he said. City mayor and fire services minister Sovan Chatterjee said the hospital was equipped to handle fire mishaps, which helped the fire brigade control the blaze quickly. On the availability of medicines in the hospital, he said, There is no cause for panic. In the afternoon, chief minister Mamata Banerjee ordered two enquiries to be conducted simultaneously by the public works department (PWD) and fire services department. Since PWD is in charge of maintenance of the hospital, it should find out if there had been any lapses, said a state government official who did not wish to be named. In the past one month, Bengal has witnessed several disasters including four bridge collapses and two major fires. When a private hospital catches fire the chief minister parks herself at the spot and promises action against culprits. But the process of identifying the guilty has not even started at Calcutta Medical College, alleged Congress Rajya Sabha member Pradip Bhattacharya. BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said the collapse of Majerhat Bridge, fire at Bagree Market, Tuesdays explosion at Nagerbazar and the fire at the medical college were not isolated incidents. It proves that no one has any control over the administration, he alleged. The incident comes 17 days after Bagree Market, located in Kolkatas trading hub of Burrabazar, was gutted. Hundreds of patients were evacuated safely on Wednesday after a fire broke out in the pharmacy building of the Kolkata Medical College and Hospital, officials said. At least ten fire engines were pressed into service after the fire was noticed at around 8am in the building of the hospital, the oldest institute of western medicine in the country, located on College Street. Fire tenders have rushed here and have started working. Patients have been evacuated safely. We cannot say anything else right now, said Kolkata Polices deputy commissioner (central) Subhankar Sinha. Firefighters claimed that the fire was contained at around 9:30am. Thick smoke triggered panic in the campus as hospital workers and relatives of the patients scrambled to bring them out of the building on trolleys and even wrapped in bedsheets to safety. The cotton and consumables stored in the building stoked the fire, claimed hospital workers. Lets assess the situation. I have been told that all the patients have been evacuated. The director general of fire services is here. Ten fire engines are working, said Kolkata mayor and minister in charge of fire and emergency services. Right at this moment we are not in a position to find out who is responsible, added Chatterjee. The fire comes just 17 days after a building in Bagri market, Kolkatas trading hub of Burrabazar, was gutted late on September 16. In December 2011, a fire in AMRI Hospitals in the city killed more than 90 people. I am a strict man, I am what I am, I cannot change. With that statement, Indias 46th Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi announced the new rules of engagement in the court over which he presides. To be sure, the remark by the new Chief Justice of India (CJI) came at a function organised to felicitate him by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) after court hours on Wednesday. By then, the import of the message had already been felt by lawyers. The moment he sat in court, a few hours after taking the oath administered to him by President Ram Nath Kovind, CJI Gogoi refused to hear lawyers who were waiting in queue to mention cases for urgent hearing, a standard practice in Court no 1. Raising the bar for hearing urgent cases that break the queue, the CJI told advocates: We are in the process of coming up with new parameters and streamline the practise of mentioning cases. Till then only matters where someone is getting evicted or hanged or killed would be heard (urgently). Specifically, on Wednesday, CJI Gogoi declined to give an urgent hearing to cases pertaining to the illegal allotment of land in Haryana, an insolvency matter, and a matrimonial dispute. He even refused to give an immediate hearing to advocate Prashant Bhushan who sought a stay on the deportation orders of seven Rohingya Muslims . If they are deported, we can always get them back if its (deportation) wrong. Do not worry, justice Gogoi said, adding that there was no urgency in the matter. Bhushans assertion that the seven would be sent to Myanmar on Wednesday night failed to move the bench. The practice of letting lawyers mention urgent cases before the Chief Justices bench is designed to provide an opportunity to people to fast-track the first hearing of critical cases. Still, long-time court observers say that over a period of time, many not-so-urgent cases have also been flagged before the bench, taking away the courts precious time. Former CJI Dipak Misra also attempted to streamline the practice earlier this year. In January, he directed that only junior lawyers would be allowed to mention cases before his bench. He was addressing a complaint from younger lawyers that they didnt get a chance to flag their cases because senior lawyers appeared to get priority. Justice Misra later asked lawyers to first mention matters for urgent hearing before the registrar and approach the Chief Justices court only if they were aggrieved by the registrars order. In the evening function, justice Gogoi clarified his morning remark on urgent cases. Let me tell you, me and my colleagues are trying to prepare a system which will function better. We are trying to reduce the time between filing and listing of cases. We are trying to introduce a system where cases dont get dropped and if we succeed, perhaps a large section of mentioning will go away altogether, Its not the Chief Justice who will drop mentioning but mentioning will die out automatically, he said. Justice Gogoi offered the clarification after SCBA president Vikas Singh urged him to be more lenient towards the Bar, especially junior lawyers. I am a strict man, I am what I am, I cannot change, the CJI replied, although he followed this up with his explanation. AHIC, the annual knowledge and networking platform for the hotel investment community, will return to Ras Al Khaimah for the next edition in April 2019. The AHIC 2019 will take place from April 9 to 11 at an all new purpose-built AHIC Village in the grounds of the Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, in partnership with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA). The 2019 programme, themed Synchronised for Success, is being developed following the AHIC Advisory Board, held at The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management in Dubai, at which more than 40 of the Middle Easts leading hotel owners, developers, operators and consultants gathered to discuss the main issues and opportunities that drive the hotel investment industry in the Middle East. The Advisory Board revealed shared sentiment about the importance of creating harmony amongst hotel investment stakeholders, the need discuss the shift in hotel operating models the industry is witnessing, the desire for insights from other business sectors in terms of disruption, and the opportunity to explore the impact and opportunity of new technologies and sustainable design & development all topics that will be featured in the AHIC 2019 programme. Haitham Mattar, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: We are delighted to be hosting AHIC in Ras Al Khaimah for the second year following last years phenomenal success. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, we look forward to welcoming the region's most senior hotel investors, developers, operators and world-class speakers to share insights, exchange knowledge and opportunities that will drive the tourism and hospitality sector forward. AHIC will serve as a great platform for us to showcase Ras Al Khaimahs new Destination Strategy as we aim to attract 3 million visitors by 2025. Jonathan Worsley, chairman of Bench Events and Founder of AHIC, said: We were incredibly pleased to have more than 40 of our Advisory Board members attend this years meeting, which is such an important part of the programming for AHIC. It was also great to see the enthusiasm and anticipation for our return to Ras Al Khaimah in 2019 following the success of this years event with our partners at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. John Emmerson, director of events, MEED, said: We are super excited to be back in Ras Al Khaimah for AHIC 2019. The AHIC Village was a great success this year and, as event organisers, Ras Al Khaimah as a destination gave us fantastic opportunities to enrich the AHIC experience for our delegates. From the worlds longest zipline and gym sessions on the beach to dinner in the desert and a closing keynote by the worlds greatest living explorer, we were able to create an environment for our delegates to fully focus on connecting, learning and doing business. He added: We look forward to even more exhilarating experiences for our delegates at AHIC 2019, one of which will be a supercar driving experience through our partner ES Unique Mobility Services. - TradeArabia News Service Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the UNEP Champions of the Earth award, UNs highest environmental honour, from the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres in New Delhi on Wednesday. Guterres said PM Modi recognised the fact that climate change poses a direct existential threat to us. He knows what we need to do to avoid a catastrophe. Other leaders also recognise, know and understand, but the difference is that he not only recognizes but he acts. Modi was conferred the award on September 26 by the United Nations (UN) on the sidelines of 73rd UN General Assembly in New York City. Expressing gratitude to the global community for conferring the award upon him, Modi had earlier dedicated it to the country and its long tradition of co-existing with nature. Asserting that the poor and the marginalised were the ultimate victims of the climate injustice, Modi said we need to put the same emphasis on protecting nature as we do on other issues. Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron were named as recipients of the prestigious award for their exemplary leadership and advocating action on sustainable development and climate change. The Indian Prime Minister was selected in the leadership category for his pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and for his unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022, it said. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has informed the Delhi high court that it is exploring the feasibility of developing a device for the identification of bank notes by the visually impaired. The RBI informed a bench of chief justice Rajendra Menon and justice V Kameswar Rao that for developing an application, a presentation has also been taken from a mobile app developer, who has developed the app specifically for the identification of notes by the visually impaired. Changing design of currency is a serious matter and needs to be considered with respect to its viability, cost and other factors at all levels. The RBI is exploring various alternative options including the feasibility of developing a mechanism/device for identification of denomination of banknotes by the visually impaired, the RBI said in the affidavit. RBIs reply comes on an application filed by advocate Rohit Dandriyal in a pending PIL filed by three advocates, a company secretary and NGO All India Confederation of Blind, who had sought a change in the new currency notes to make them easily identifiable and differentiable for the visually impaired. The PIL has said visually impaired people were facing hardship in the identification, usage and transaction of the new currency notes of Rs 2,000, Rs 500, Rs 200 and Rs 50 denominations. RBI informed that the introduction of the application requires comprehensive discussion and has to be examined in entirety including possible alternative solutions. the Committee of the Central Board directed to pursue the development of suitable device/mechanism for aiding the visually impaired to identify the denomination of bank notes, RBI said. However, it did not recommend the feasibility to print notes in different shapes because of the disadvantages like folded corners being confused with clipped corners, concerns in handling and degradation, creation of false positives, etc. The US has said the Russian S-400 air and missile defence system is a focus area for significant transactions that could attract indirect sanctions against nations that enter into a military purchase with Moscow. India and Russia are likely to sign a missile deal, estimated at more than $5 billion, during Russian President Vladmir Putins visit for annual summit talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi beginning on Thursday in New Delhi, a Kremlin aide said. The US sanctions are part of law Countering Americas Adversaries Through Sanction Act that seeks to punish Russia for interference in the 2016 US presidential election, its role in the Syrian conflict, and the annexation of Crimea. USs stance could put a spanner in Indias reported plans to buy five S-400s during Russian President Vladimir Putins visit to Delhi that begins today. The administration has indicated that a focus area for the implementation of CAATSA Section 231 is new or qualitative upgrades in capability including the S-400, a US state department spokesperson said. We urge all of our allies and partners to forgo transactions with Russia that would trigger sanctions under CAATSA. The US president can grant waivers if a deal does not threaten the security of US or its allies and there is evidence the buyer has been cutting defence imports and dependence on Russia. India fulfils these conditions and officials have sounded optimistic about getting a waiver. But, the spokesperson added: The waiver is narrow, intended to wean countries off of Russian equipment, and allow for things such as spare parts for previously-purchased equipment. A waiver will also need to be cleared by the US Congress. Last month, the United States imposed sanctions on Chinas military for its purchase of combat fighters as well as the S-400 missile system it bought from Russia this year. The United States is also concerned about NATO ally Turkeys decision to buy the Russian missile system, seeing it as incompatible with the alliance systems. Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman told reporters India was closing in on the deal to buy the air defence system from Russia, with which it has long-standing military ties. Negotiation on S-400 air defence systems has been on for a long while and it is at a stage where it can be finalised, Sitharaman said last week. We have a big legacy of buying defence equipment from Russia. More than 80 percent of Indias military equipment was of Soviet origin during the days of the Cold War, but since its breakup New Delhi has diversified its weaponry. The United States is one of its top arms suppliers, closing $15 billion worth of deals in just the last decade. US firms Lockheed Martin and Boeing lead the race to sell the Indian military hundreds of aircraft to replace its ageing Russian MiG planes. (With inputs from Reuters) Former MP MVVS Murthy and two others from Visakhapatnam were killed in a road accident in Alaska in the US at around 4.30 am (IST) on Wednesday. Murthy, popularly known as Goldspot Murthy, was a noted industrialist and founder of the Gandhi Institute of Technology And Management (GITAM) University in Visakhapatnam. According to his relatives, the vehicle transporting them from California collided head on with a truck coming from the opposite direction. Anchorage Daily News based in Anchorage, Alaska, reported that the accident on the Parks Highway killed four and injured more. Four men died after the driver of a 2017 Dodge van tried to pass the commercial vehicle in a no-passenger zone of Cantwell and the van as a result collided with a 2007 Ford-F pickup in the opposite lane, seriously injuring a child inside, the newspaper said. The other two victims were identified as Velivolu Basavapunnaiah and VBR Chowdary. Another person Kadiayala Venkataratnam, also travelling in the same car, was airlifted to a nearby hospital and is said to be battling for life. Murthy had gone to the US for an interaction with the alumni of his GITAM University scheduled in California on October 6. Members of the Telugu Association of North America (TANA) are helping bring back the bodies of the victims to their native place. Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed shock in a condolence message. Six trusted lieutenants of BJP national president Amit Shah will travel across Rajasthan and interact with party workers and leaders to give a ground report to him on the electoral prospects, party leaders said. The six leaders with an RSS background have been chosen in keeping with the partys social engineering formula. The state has been divided into three regions Jaipur, Jodhpur and Chittorgarh -- and three teams of two persons each will cover them between October 10 and 18. Party leaders said Shah is keeping a close watch on Rajasthan, where the BJP is facing a tough challenge to retain power. Shah is not willing to take chances and is working parallel to the state organisation to assess the ground situation and take corrective measures, a leader said on condition of anonymity. The Jaipur region will cover districts of eastern and northern Rajasthan up to Bikaner. The region has a dominance of Scheduled Castes and union minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, an SC, has been given charge of this region along with state party in-charge Avinash Rai Khanna. The Chittorgarh region will cover south Rajasthan areas of Mewar, Hadoti and Vagad. In view of the Rajput dominance in the region, union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, a Rajput, and state general secretary (organisation) Chandrashekhar have been given charge of Chittorgarh. The Marwar region covering the Jat-dominated western Rajasthan has been given to Jat leader Satish Poonia and party joint general secretary (organisation) V Satish. BJP spokesperson Mukesh Pareek said Shekhawat is convenor of the election management committee while Poonia and Meghwal are co-convenors, so Shah has appointed them to strengthen the organisation. They will tour the state and talk to office-bearers, workers, booth in-charges, take feedback and give directions for corrective action where required. Congress spokesperson Archana Sharma said Shah was trying to do damage control as the feedback that he has got so far is that the partys situation and governments perception among people is very poor. Shah is working parallelly to get independent feedback and do some last-minute work to try and fix the situation, she said. The teams appointed by Shah will report on the caste equation in each assembly constituency, ties with the RSS, the partys position in each constituency, seats where the Congress is strong and how the BJP can win them, feedback on the government and ministers, popularity of leaders, and who should be denied tickets. They will also reach out to communities that are upset with the government for various reasons. Jats are unhappy over lack of representation in government and failure of the government to help farmers, a majority of whom are Jats. Rajputs are angry over the slight to senior leader Jaswant Singh, Anandpal Singh encounter, Chatur Singh encounter and the Padmaavat issue; the SCs are miffed with the dilution of the SC/ST Act. The BJP lost all three by-polls held in January to the Congress. In the 2013 assembly elections, the BJP won 163 seats, reducing the Congress to 21 seats. In the 2008 polls, the Congress won 96 seats and the BJP got 78. Apple sales executive Vivek Tiwari (38) was alive for around 55 minutes before succumbing to the bullet wound, but police failed to get him medical attention in this crucial period, post-mortem examination findings suggest. According to eyewitness Sana Khan, After being shot, Tiwari drove the SUV for around 300 metres and rammed into the pillar of the underpass below Shaheed Path. Chowdhary and another constable Sandip Kumar accompanying him had disappeared by then, she had told mediapersons, as well as the police. Another police patrol car arrived after some time and began calling for an ambulance. Sana said the police team put Tiwari in the car and rushed him to Ram Manohar Lohia hospital only after multiple requests to rush him to a hospital and not to wait for the ambulance. Even after reaching the hospital, the police team was busy recording her statement instead of focussing on Tiwaris treatment , Sana said. According to the post-mortem report, Tiwari was admitted at the hospital at 2:05 am, nearly 35 minutes after he was shot at, and he succumbed to his injuries at 2:25 am. The rough estimate suggested that it would take less than 10 minutes to reach Ram Manohar Lohia hospital during that hour. The post-mortem report reads that Tiwari suffered bullet wounds on the left side of the chin. His left mandible was fractured and the bullet was recovered from the posterior lateral aspect of the left side of the neck. And the direction of bullet was downside and backward. What medical experts say The first hour of any accident (gunshot, accident wounds) is precious and can make the difference between life and death of a patient. If a patient gets treatment within the first hour of an accident, his survival chances double. Dr Ashish Singh, an expert in trauma injuries of SKD Hospital LDA Colony Kanpur Road said, The golden hour, is the golden time, refers to the period of time following a traumatic injury during which there is the highest likelihood that prompt medical and surgical treatment will prevent death. The first hour after the accident is the golden period, if a patient gets primary treatment then there are chances of survival brightens. Dr Devangshu Nandi of Nandi Nursing Home said, It is well established that patients chances of survival are better if they receive care in the shortest period of time; it is a known fact that rapid intervention in trauma cases, can save lives. Personally I never thought that the future of Delhis Taj Mahal Hotel (or Tajmansingh) was ever in doubt. The Taj was forced to sign an unfair lease agreement when the hotel was built during the Emergency. When the lease came up for renewal, the NDMC (which owns the shell of the building) took a needlessly bloody-minded attitude given how much money the corporation had earned from the hotel over the years . (There are NDMC-owned properties that have returning nothing to the Corporation; some still owe crores). And, to be fair, the Taj management did screw up the renewal process; it should never have let it get to the stage where there was an auction. Why did I think the Taj would win? Well, because once the auction was restricted to Indian hotel companies, I had guessed that it would be a Taj vs ITC battle. ITC is a professionally-run company which saw the value in acquiring an iconic property but which, I guess, was not prepared to lose money on the acquisition. Any company that won the bid would get only the shell of the hotel (the Taj owns all the fittings) and would have to close the hotel for around two years to refit it, a process that would cost around Rs. 200 crore or more apart from the lost revenues during the time the hotel was closed for refurbishment. For the Taj, keeping the hotel was not merely a business decision. There was a huge sentimental attachment to the property. Plus, the Taj group started out with an advantage of several hundred crores. If it retained the hotel (which it did eventually ) it would not need to spend the vast sums of money that any new operator would have had to expend. Some investment is required: the rooms need to be redesigned, both in terms of space and fittings.But it is not as vast as the fortune any new operator would have had to spend. Given all this, I was confident that the savvy Puneet Chhatwal , who now runs the Taj, would balance sentiment with commerce and make the winning bid. Which is exactly what happened. If the Taj can increase the revenues it gets from room rates and do some F&B re-adjustment (they can start by blowing up Machan, which never recovered from a hideous redesign nearly two decades ago), it can easily make more money from the Mansingh despite the higher percentage of revenues it has to pay NDMC. People often ask me why the word iconic is usually used to describe the hotel. And it is a good question . Delhi is not short of hotels that can be called iconic. There is the Imperial which was built in the last years of the Raj and has a sense of history. There is the Ashoka, built in the 1950s by a consortium of maharajahs and government bodies to evoke the grand hotels of Europe with an Indian touch. And there is the Oberoi, the first modern five star hotel in India which changed all the rules when it opened in 1965. The Delhi Taj does not have the advantage of history or of being the first of its kind. When it opened in 1978, the Ashoka had not yet been run to the ground by ITDC, the Oberoi was already Delhis top hotel and though the Imperial was struggling, it still had the historical background that remains its unique selling proposition to this day. The Delhi Taj opened in 1978 and transformed Indias hotel scene. So, what makes the Taj so iconic? I reckon that it was no single factor but a combination of many things . While the Oberoi remained the first choice of foreign tourists and businessmen, the Taj set out to actively court Indian business. These days, when there are 70 flights every day between Delhi and Mumbai, we do not realize how far apart the two cities seemed in the 1970s with only a few Indian Airlines flights to connect them. In that era, Bombay was Bombay. And Delhi was Delhi. The Oberois symbolized the power of Delhi (thought their most profitable hotel was in Bombay). The Taj was a Bombay company run by Bombay people and perhaps the only major hotel company in India not to be run by Punjabis. Apart from the Parsis who you would expect to find in a Tata company, the Tajs bosses came from all over the subcontinent. Ajit Kerkar was a Marathi-speaking Goan and his number two Camellia Panjabi was a Sindhi from Bombay. Hotelier Ajit Kerkar. In some ways, the arrival of the Taj in Delhi marked the first attempt by Bombay to stake its claim in Indias capital. The Oberois, who were incredibly powerful, did their best to lobby against the Tajs arrival but Ajit Kerkar finally outwitted them by finding an unlikely ally in Sanjay Gandhi. From the moment the Taj opened in Delhi, it was as though a slice of Bombay had been transported to the capital. Most of the hotels top executives came from the Bombay property and the Taj assembled a team of the best chefs and managers from all over India to open the hotel, breaking though the stranglehold that Punjabi Delhi had on the hotel business. (I reckon that one reason why the Maurya, which opened at roughly the same time, had less impact was because it was run by the same old ex-Oberoi/ex-ITDC people that Delhi was used to. It had none of the Tajs freshness). If you look at the guest profile of the Delhi Taj in its first two decades, you will find that the Bombay elite constituted a large chunk of its regulars. It became a home-away-from home for Bombay businessmen who came to petition the government, for lawyers who came to appear before the Supreme Court, for Bollywood stars who were bewildered by Delhi and many many other Bombay people Delhi had always had international hotels full of foreign tourists. The Taj was Delhis first national hotel full of successful Indians. A second crucial component in the Tajs success was the food. I doubt if anyone has ever put as much effort into planning a hotels restaurants as the Taj did. The companys top chefs travelled through Italy finding dishes for Casa Medici, the hotels Italian restaurant, accompanied by Kerkar and Panjabi. Casa Medici was Indias first authentic Italian restaurant and though it never did as well as it should have because it was ahead of its time, its influence was phenomenal. Until the Taj opened Haveli, its Indian restaurant, all Indian food in Delhi was descended from the Kwality, Moti Mahal kind of places. The Maurya found great success with Bukhara, which was Moti Mahal, four generations on, but its Avadhi restaurant Mayur never really took off. (They closed it eventually and opened Dum Pukht over a decade later). Haveli, on the other hand, which broke with the Punjabi food formula, became the citys top Indian haute cuisine restaurant, introducing Delhi to such dishes as Achar Gosht which were then widely copied. The two most influential restaurants however were House of Ming which introduced North India to spicy Sichuan food and led directly to the death of Cantonese food in India and the invention of Punjabi Chinese with its red sauces and chilli graves. Until that happened however, the House of Ming was a world class restaurant . But later, greedy managers started Punjabifying the food (in the late 1980s I think) to please rich guests. As influential was Machan, the coffee shop. The Oberois had Cafe Espresso, an atmospheric narrow coffee-shop but young people could only afford to go there for a coffee. (It is significant that even those who remember the restaurant with affection struggle to remember a single dish). The Taj took a deliberate decision to lower the prices at Machan and to make it the hotels advertisement for itself. Kerkar chose a genius manager for the restaurant (the late Ronnie Lobo) and with prices that were low (a steak was Rs 12!), Machan was packed out night and day. Nearly everybody who grew up in Delhi in the 1980s has affectionate memories of Machan. (HT File Photo) What will happen now ? Well, the Taj management can heave a sigh of relief. After years of using service to replace hardware, the group can finally make the improvements that the hotel needs. The Taj has been lucky to have a series of terrific General Managers who rescued the hotel after a really bad patch lasting several years in the late 1990s and the early part of this century: Abhijit Mukherjee, Yannick Poupon, Digvijay Singh and now Satyajeet Krishnan. But there is only so much that managers can do when the rooms and small and the restaurants need to be renovated (or in the case of new Machan, blown up) The Taj now operates in a very different environment where the foreign chains are asserting themselves (Marriott-Starwood is now larger than Taj if you exclude Tajs Ginger hotels); where the Oberois have a global reputation for luxury; and where ITC, once written off by Taj executives, has emerged as a serious challenger to the old primacy of the Taj, taking it on successfully in city after city: Chennai, Bangalore, Calcutta and most recently in Hyderabad. How the Taj moves forward with the Delhi property will be crucial to its future. History has given the Taj management many iconic properties the original Taj, the Aguada complex in Goa, the West End in Bangalore, The Connemara, FishCove and The Coromandel in Chennai, the Rajasthan palaces and so many others. Previous managements have screwed up some of those properties. But I am guessing that Puneet Chatwal will put things right. Retaining the Delhi hotel is a good beginning. Follow more stories on Facebook and Twitter: @htlifeandstyle Even after knowing that one in every three students who had applied for re-evaluation between April 2014 and August 2016 were wrongly failed, the University of Mumbai has not yet taken any punitive action against teachers. The universitys reply to an application under Right to Information (RTI) Act has revealed that the university has not used provisions under the new Maharashtra Public Universities Act 2016 to punish teachers. Not a single examiner has been booked under the law. Whats the use of having rules and regulations when the university is not implementing it? Lakhs of students are suffering because of the attitude of teachers towards paper assessment and in some cases, the re-evaluation results are delayed so students end up appearing for repeater exams only to find that they had cleared the paper in the first attempt itself, said Vihar Durve, a city-based RTI activist who filed an application. An RTI query had revealed more than 2 lakh students had applied for re-evaluation of papers to the University of Mumbai between April 2014 and August 2016. Almost 73,000 students found out that they passed after re-evaluation. This means almost 30% students passed a paper after being marked fail in their papers. There is no form of refund given to students who were wrongly failed, nor are teachers being punished. How will this ever end? said Durve. According to figures revealed in another RTI filed by Durve in 2016, between April 2013 and March 2014, MU earned Rs2.67 crore from re-evaluation and Rs15.63 lakh from photocopies of answer booklets. In the next two academic sessions, it collected over Rs4.8 crore for re-evaluation fee and Rs25.3 lakh for photocopies. Officials from the University of Mumbai told HT that action cannot be taken in such cases as the purpose of re-evaluation is to give another chance to a student. Arjun Ghatule, director of Board of Examinations and Evaluation, said the clause in the State Universities Act is misinterpreted. If a student passed an exam after reevaluation doesnt mean its the fault of the previous examiner/moderator. Re-evaluation is meant to assess papers with a new perspective and if students pass, its the advantage they get, he said, adding that they cannot punish teachers for such issues. The third generation of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawars family is all set to enter politics. According to party leaders, former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawars elder son Parth, 28, is likely to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from Maval constituency in Pune district. Ajit, the nephew of Pawar, represents the second generation of Pawar family in politics, along with his cousin and Pawars daughter Supriya Sule. Currently, Parth handles the familys business and now plans to enter electoral politics. His candidature is expected to come up for discussion in a review meeting for Pune and Maval Lok Sabha constituencies called by Ajit in Pune on Wednesday, said a party leader. In April, Parth was seen at a few party events along with Pawar. In July, he visited Nagpur to see the proceedings of the state legislature during the monsoon session. Ajit didnt deny the development, but said he doesnt want his children to join politics. However, they will not be forced into anything, he was quick to add. I dont want them to join politics, but I will not force my decision on them. They are free to take their own decision. But the party has its own process to follow. We need to know what the senior leaders and local party workers think before taking any decision, Pawar told a Marathi news channel. Despite repeated attempts, Parth remained unavailable for a comment. Maval constituency covers parts of Pune and Raigad districts. The Shiv Sena has won the Lok Sabha seat in the last two general polls. For 2019, the NCP has chalked out a plan to take the Peasants and Workers Party of India (PWP), along to wrest the seat that comprises parts of Raigad and Pune districts. PWP holds a strong position in Raigad district and NCP has sizeable presence in Pune. In the last Lok Sabha elections, both the NCP and PWP contested against each other and Sena got the advantage of division of votes. PWP candidate Laxman Jagtap secured 3.54 lakh votes and Rahul Narvekar of NCP got 1.82 lakh votes against Senas Shrirang Barne, who won with 5.12 lakh votes. But this time, if both the parties fight together, we are hopeful that Parth will be able to make his debut in Parliament, said a senior NCP leader, requesting anonymity. Jayant Patil, general secretary of PWP said they have decided to join the grand alliance of the Congress and NCP. We will not contest the general elections this time. Our party will support the alliance candidate. PWPs performance in Raigad district was remarkable in 2014. In 2019, if both the PWP and NCP come together, we will surely win the Maval seat, he said. Maval Lok Sabha constituency was formed following recommendations of Delimitation Commission of India in 2008. It comprises six assembly constituencies Panvel, Uran and Karjat (Raigad district) and Maval, Pimpri and Chinchwad (Pune district). PWP has strong presence in all three assembly constituencies of Raigad district. In the last Assembly polls, it lost both Panvel and Uran to BJP and Shiv Sena respectively, but with small margins. In Uran, the margin of votes was only 846 seats and in Panvel, it was 13,215 votes. Chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Tuesday said his government has taken a strong exception to the Centres notification diluting Punjabs share in the Chandigarh administration and he has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reconsider the move. The Union ministry of home affairs (MHA) last week had issued a notification on the merger of the UT police with DANIPS (Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police Service)-cadre officers. Talking to mediapersons on the sidelines of the inauguration of a Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojna (MGSVY) camp in Mohali, Amarinder said, I will again take up the issue with the PM during our meeting in Delhi on Thursday. The 60:40 ratio, as decided at the time of division of Punjab and Haryana in 1966, should not be tinkered with, he said. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator Kanwar Sandhu was first to flag the issue on September 29, followed by the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) opposing the move. Attempts are being made to dilute Punjabs stake in Chandigarh. A similar erosion has taken place, over the years, in the posts of class-I gazetted officers. Punjab would not allow further erosion of its interests, he added. State local bodies minister Navjot Sidhu has also written to Union home minister Rajnath Singh saying the notification shakes the very foundation and purpose of the Punjab Reorganisation Act and the Rajiv-Longowal Accord. The letter states that all assets and liabilities were bifurcated between Punjab and Haryana in the ratio of 60:40. It was decided in principle that the union territory of Chandigarh will be the capital of Punjab and it was only given the status of UT till newly constituted state of Haryana forms its own capital. Rajiv-Longowal accord not followed Former state Congress chief and Rajya Sabha MP Partap Bajwa also shot off letter to Rajnath saying Chandigarh was stipulated to be the Punjab capital as per the States Reorganisation Act, 1966, and it was to continue to be joint capital of Punjab and Haryana to till the time Haryana develops a new capital. Bajwas letter says the Rajiv-Longowal Accord signed in 1985 clearly mentioned that Chandigarh would be given to Punjab overruling the Shah Commissions suggestions that it should be given to Haryana. The Government of India appointed the Venkataramiah Commission to chalk out a plan to determine which Hindi-speaking areas of Punjab should be given to Haryana. However, no such step was taken. The administrator of Chandigarh is the governor of Punjab. Therefore, there is a symbolic acceptance of Punjabs claim over Chandigarh which cannot be ignored at any stage, he wrote in the letter. Similarly, Punjab-cadre Indian Police Service (IPS) officer is posted as the SSP of Chandigarh and the Punjab Civil Secretariat, the Honble Punjab and Haryana High Court and the Punjab Police headquarters are based at Chandigarh and as such the administration of state of Punjab is carried on from Chandigarh. Culturally too, Chandigarh is de-facto capital of Punjab from day one. The Punjabi speaking character of the city of Chandigarh proves the cultural and linguistic linkages between the people of Punjab and Chandigarh, the letter reads. Royal Jordanian (RJ) has launched an all-new frequent flyer programme that offers loyal, frequent travellers a more rewarding, attractive and flexible package. The new loyalty programme, named Royal Club, replaces the old Royal Plus. The loyalty tiers have also been renamed to Platinum Hawk, Gold Sparrow, Silver Jay and Bronze Sunbird, giving them a more Jordanian identity. Royal Club offers members generous award miles earnings that can triple based on members' purchase behaviour. Moreover, award miles will not expire as long as a member's account is active for 18 months continuously. Staying active has become very simple and can be achieved through various means: earning miles through flight activities with RJ or any of its Oneworld partners, earning miles through everyday activities with any of RJ's numerous non-airline partners, redeeming miles for an award ticket, cabin upgrade, excess baggage, etc.), as well as buying, gifting, transferring and donating miles. It also offers a rewarding tier miles accrual scheme that allows members to qualify for higher membership tiers much easier. Top-tier members -- Platinum Hawk and Gold Sparrow -- are now entitled to exclusive privileges and benefits in recognition of their continued support and loyalty to RJ throughout the years. Depending on the membership tier, some added benefits include complimentary upgrades on RJ flights, guaranteed economy seats on fully booked flights and nominating a gold-tier partner (every Platinum Hawk member can nominate a gold partner). Other compelling benefits of Royal Club include lounge access and excess baggage allowance, in addition to priority in check-ins, upgrades, waitlists, boarding and baggage handling. Through Royal Club, Royal Jordanian also enhances the members online experience and services as now, members can purchase, transfer, gift and donate miles online. Members can now purchase miles either online or through RJ offices to top up their accounts with needed award miles to qualify for the award of their choice, or they can present them to another member as a gift by crediting the purchased miles to the chosen members account. Moreover, members can now transfer miles easily between any two accounts any time, whether online or offline, for a set transfer fee. Royal Club members can also use their miles to help the fight against cancer by donating their miles to King Hussein Cancer Foundation and Center. The Family Club Programme, which is part of the Royal Club, is testimony to RJ's keenness to satisfy the club members by giving the head of the Family Club account extra flexibility to include his/her extended family members in the account. This will allow them all to qualify for the award of their choice faster. The new programme was launched during a ceremony held on October 2 at Zara Expo, Amman, in the presence of top-tier frequent flyers and loyal partners, including banks and retailers. In the presence of RJ chairman of the Board, Said Darwazeh, president and CEO Stefan Pichler addressed the attendees during the ceremony: We are pleased to reveal a robust loyalty programme that is more rewarding and flexible than ever before. We guarantee that you will both enjoy and benefit from your membership in our Royal Club. Our objective is to further recognise and engage our existing members while, at the same time, drive loyalty, retention and acquisition of new members. Today, we have more than 430,000 members and the number is increasingly growing, particularly with the new, appealing, Royal Club programme. On this occasion, I would like to extend my gratitude for the confidence our loyal customers have shown us. In return, we will indulge them with great rewards," Pichler said. - TradeArabia News Service The glittering Thai bay immortalised in the movie The Beach will be closed indefinitely to allow it to recover from the impact of hordes of tourists, an official said as a temporary ban on visitors expired. Maya Bay, ringed by cliffs on Ko Phi Phi Ley island, was made famous when it featured in the 2000 film starring Leonardo DiCaprio. It was initially shut for four months in June due to beach erosion and pollution as the white sand paradise sagged under pressure from thousands of day-trippers arriving by boat. But a survey of the problem during the temporary ban made clear that the short-term fix was not going to work and that the damage was worse than originally thought. We have evaluated each month and found out that the ecological system was seriously destroyed from tourism of up to 5,000 people daily, said Songtam Suksawang, director of the National Parks office. Its very difficult to remedy and rehabilitate because its beach was completely destroyed as well the plants which cover it, he said, adding it was impossible for recovery to occur in the allotted time. He provided photos showing the degradation of Maya Bays shores, where trees and smaller vegetation have been gradually uprooted as its white sands receded. Thailands Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation announced the indefinite closure in a royal gazette published on October 1. It said the restrictions on tourism would not be lifted until the ecosystem fully recovers to a normal situation. Besides beach erosion, heavy traffic around the azure waters can also damage sensitive coral reefs, already vulnerable to rising sea temperatures and climate change. Arnaud Simons of Ocean Quest Global, an environmental organisation assisting the government with coral recovery around Maya Bay, said the bays rehabilitation could last for four years at least and the indefinite closure is very good news. Over the last few months, the monsoon season and rough sea conditions have indeed hindered the efforts of coral rehabilitation, but we have no doubt that the longer term objectives... will be met. Tourism overload Thailand attracted up to 35 million visitors last year, many of whom flocked to Krabi town where boat trips carried visitors to nearby island destinations of which Maya Bay is a key attraction. Nanthapat Horbut, who runs a tour company in Krabi, was disappointed by the closure as his company had promised Maya Bay to customers booked for Thailands tourist high season which begins in November. All tourists... want to see Maya Bay, both Chinese and western tourists alike, Nanthapat said. Paul Pruangkarn of Pacific Asia Travel Association a non-profit working with Thai operators to promote responsible tourism said the decision was a double-edged sword for local communities. You need to also consider the livelihoods, said Pruangkarn. They still have to feed themselves and support their families. The government has to consider how then can they assist them. Countries across the region are waking up to the problems of plastic waste and environmental degradation caused by beach tourism overload. Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte announced in April a six-month closure of the popular Boracay beach resort, calling the destination a cesspool. And Indonesia declared a garbage emergency last year along a stretch of the resort island of Bali, after coastal pollution was highlighted in a viral video that showed a diver swimming through waters full of trash. Follow more stories on Facebook and Twitter: @htlifeandstyle United States President Donald Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi on Tuesday by mocking a woman who has claimed that she was sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago. The audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Christine Blasey Fords testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She testified that Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s, when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Fords allegations. How did you get home? I dont remember, Trump said at the rally in Southaven. How did you get there? I dont remember. Where is the place? I dont remember. How many years ago was it? I dont know. I dont know. I dont know. Imitating Ford, he added, But I had one beer thats the only thing I remember. It marked the sharpest criticism by Trump of Ford since she came forward publicly with the allegation last month. He had previously called Ford a very credible witness. Fords lawyer Michael Bromwich called Trumps attack vicious, vile and soulless. Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? Bromwich tweeted. She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice. The president was in Mississippi on Tuesday looking to use his influence to sway the outcome of a low-profile election that could tip the balance of the Senate. As Republicans fight headwinds ahead of the Nov. 6 midterm election, Trump sought to rally his supporters behind GOP Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, who was appointed to fill the seat of Republican Thad Cochran, who retired in April. She faces three candidates Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bernard Bartee in next months special election for the remainder of the two-year term. Shes always had my back, Trump said. Shes always had your back. And a vote for Cindy is a vote for me. But Trump spent much of the rally lamenting the treatment of Kavanaugh by Democrats, whose attacks, he said, had taken their toll on the judges family. A mans life is in tatters, he said. Of Democrats, he added, These are really evil people. He even raised questions about the drinking habits of Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy in an attempt to turn the tables on Democrats who have gone after Kavanaughs beer drinking. Trump told the crowd they should do an online search for Patrick Leahy slash drink. Leahys office didnt immediately return a message seeking comment Tuesday. Some Republicans and White House allies have suggested the allegations against Kavanaugh can be potent political fodder in the run-up to November 6, animating GOP voters who have so far lacked the same motivation to head to the polls as their Democratic counterparts. Republican officials and the White House expect Hyde-Smiths race to go to a runoff under the states jungle election rules that force a showdown between the top two finishers if no candidate wins at least 50 percent of the vote on Election Day. With Republicans defending majorities in the House and Senate next month, officials cast Trumps visit as an attempt to get ahead of a potentially perilous situation. Officials said Trump is seeking to boost Hyde-Smith as close as possible to the 50 percent threshold and lend momentum for a possible runoff. Depending on how Republicans perform on Nov. 6, the eyes of the nation could fall on a November 27 Mississippi runoff in what could become an expensive and high-profile race to determine control of the Senate. Your vote in this election will decide which party controls the United States Senate, Trump said. A vocal minority of the crowd Tuesday backed the other conservative in the race, McDaniel, a state senator, and booed Hyde-Smith when Trump introduced her. They launched into occasional chants of We want Chris. Earlier Tuesday, Trump told electrical contractors gathered in Philadelphia that his economic policies would translate into more jobs for their ranks as he highlighted a new trade deal among the US, Mexico and Canada. Were in the midst of a manufacturing renaissance something which nobody thought youd hear, Trump said in a speech to the National Electrical Contractors Association Convention a day after celebrating the new North American trade deal. In fact, North America already is a manufacturing powerhouse. The United States ranks No. 2 in the world behind China in manufacturing output. Mexico ranks 11th and Canada 13th, according to United Nations numbers pulled together by the Brookings Institution. Trump calls the new trade agreement USMCA, for US-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Like YMCA or US Marine Corps with an A at the end, he explained. He said he doesnt want to use the previous name, NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, which he contends cost American jobs and railed against during his 2016 presidential campaign. The new trade deal still must be approved by Congress. We are finally rebuilding our country, and we are doing it with American aluminum, American steel and with our great electrical contractors, he said. Trump said the strong economy means more jobs for our great electrical contractors. Before departing the White House, Trump tweeted, THE ONLY REASON TO VOTE FOR A DEMOCRAT IS IF YOURE TIRED OF WINNING! (The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.) US President Donald Trump made an undiplomatic remark about close ally Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, saying he warned Saudi Arabias King Salman he would not last in power for two weeks without the backing of the U.S. military. We protect Saudi Arabia. Would you say theyre rich. And I love the King, King Salman. But I said King - were protecting you - you might not be there for two weeks without us - you have to pay for your military, Trump said to cheers at a rally in Southaven, Mississippi. Trump did not say when he made those remarks to the Saudi monarch. Despite the harsh words, the Trump administration has had a close relationship with Saudi Arabia, which it views as a bulwark against Irans ambitions in the region. Trump made Saudi Arabia his first stop on his maiden international trip as president last year. Trump called King Salman on Saturday and they discussed efforts being made to maintain supplies to ensure oil market stability and global economic growth, according to Saudi state news agency SPA. Saudi Arabia is the worlds top oil exporter and the de facto leader of OPEC, which has been criticized by Trump for high oil prices. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York last month, Trump said OPEC members were as usual ripping off the rest of the world. We defend many of these nations for nothing, and then they take advantage of us by giving us high oil prices. Not good. We want them to stop raising prices, we want them to start lowering prices, Trump said. He has also pressed other U.S. allies, such as Japan, South Korea and Germany, to take more of the financial burden of their defense. (This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.) Pakistans powerful military has warned politicians against making irresponsible statements against it, saying such remarks were detrimental to the countrys stability. The terse statement by the military came after former Punjab minister and a senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Rana Mashhood claimed that the party has struck a deal with the establishment under which it will form the Punjab provincial government within a few months in the politically crucial state. Reacting to Mashhoods statement, the military spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor described it as baseless and regrettable. The Director General of Inter Services Public Relations, took to Twitter on Tuesday night, saying Attribution of an obvious vested statement by Rana Mashhood is baseless and regrettable. Such irresponsible expressions are detrimental to stability in the country. The establishment is usually a terminology used for the military institution. The powerful military has ruled coup-prone Pakistan for nearly half of the countrys history since independence in 1947. Mashhood stirred a controversy by claiming that PML-N chief and party supremo Nawaz Sharifs younger brother Shehbaz Sharif struck an understanding with the establishment to ameliorate the situation for the beleaguered party, the Express Tribune reported. The party that won the election was being considered as a horse turned out to be a mule, he said in an interview to a private TV channel. It is now strongly felt that Shehbaz Sharif would have been a better choice. If he had been prime minister, he would have handled things much better, he said. Mashhood said that Shehbaz had always been acceptable to the establishment because he talked about harmony between state institutions. When asked about Nawaz and former premier Shahid Khaqan Abbasis statements pertaining to tensions between the civilian government and the military, Mashhood said: Things have greatly improved as they [the establishment] have realised that they are banking on wrong people. Under fire, Mashhood in a tweet said his statement was quoted out of context. The PML-N has not only distanced itself from the contents of Mashhoods interview but also strongly rejected any talk of a deal. The Punjab province is now governed by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans Pakistan Tereek-e-Insaf (PTI), which ended a the rule of the PML-N. The PTI, which came second in terms of seats, managed to form the government with the help of smaller parties and independents. Deposed premier Sharif said on Wednesday that PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif has taken notice of Mashhoods claim of a deal between the party and the establishment. Sharif said he did not want to make any other comments as he was preoccupied. The PML-N has suspended the membership of Mashhood over his controversial statement, the party said in a statement. Shehbaz has constituted a three-member committee to investigate and present its finding on Mashhoods statement to the party in two weeks, the statement added. (This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text.) In a U-turn, Pakistan has announced that its close ally Saudi Arabia would not join the $50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, days after Islamabad said Riyadh will be the third strategic partner of Chinas flagship project, the Belt and Road Initiative. CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of President Xi Jinping aimed at enhancing Chinas influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects. Pakistani minister for planning and development Khusro Bakhtiar told the media on Tuesday that the cash-rich kingdoms proposed investments would fall under a separate bilateral arrangement, Dawn news reported. Saudi Arabia is not to become a collateral strategic partner in the CPEC. This impression is not true, he said. A third country can participate in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by taking part in the business and investment ventures arising out of the project, Bakhtiar said. The framework between China and Pakistan is bilateral and Saudi Arabia is not entering that framework as a third-party investor, rather the base of the CPEC will be broadened and its pace will be expedited, he said. Last month, Pakistani information minister Fawad Chaudhry said that Saudi Arabia is the third strategic partner of the CPEC, soon after Prime Minister Imran Khan returned from his first foreign trip to the kingdom. Interestingly Chaudhry was sitting with Bakhtiar when he issued clarification that Saudi Arabia participation in the CPEC was not as third partner in the project. Bakhtiar further said that there was no decision to bring a third country, like Saudi Arabia, under the framework of the CPEC. He was responding to questions about the possibility of Saudi Arabia becoming part of the Joint Working Groups or Joint Coordination Committee on the CPEC. Bakhtiar said there could be many offshoots of the CPEC where third countries could be involved in trilateral arrangement for infrastructure development, like China-Pakistan-Japan, China-Pakistan-Saudi Arabia or China-Pakistan-Germany. The minister dodged questions when asked how the cost of Main Railway Line (ML-I) had been reduced by $2 billion from $8.2 billion to $6.2 billion as claimed by railways minister Shaikh Rasheed Ahmed. I have noticed this today that Sheikh Rasheed is making some efforts (to reduce the cost) but not to my knowledge. Nothing has come in front of me to suggest that the cost has come down, he said. Bakhtiar said the CPEC portfolio currently stands at about $50 billion, of which about $6 billion was government-to-government loan and remaining in Independent Power Producers mode mostly in the energy sector. About $29 billion worth of projects were currently in progress. He said the CPEC had far bigger potential than $50 billion and would keep expanding with time as new projects come up but the previous government treated and played it like a T-20 match instead of a five-day test series and focused mostly on projects which could be completed during its tenure. Currently, a Saudi delegation is in Pakistan for initial assessment to capitalise on the Pakistani offer. India has opposed the CPEC project and protested to China as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir. Jamal Khashoggi, a Saudi government critic and journalist living in self-imposed exile, has gone missing after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday, according to his fiancee, raising concerns that hes been detained. Khashoggi, a contributor to the Washington Post, was accompanied by his Turkish fiancee to the consulate around 1 pm. on Tuesday, where he hoped to obtain a document necessary for them to marry. Asking to be named only as Hatice, the woman said she waited for Khashoggi until 1 am., even after being told there was no one left inside the building, and then returned on Wednesday morning. Hes not a traitor, hes someone who loves his country, a tearful Hatice said in an interview outside the consulate. We think hes being held inside, said Turkish-Arab media association head Turan Kislakci, a friend of Khashoggis who was also waiting. The Turkish authorities weve spoken with also think hes being held inside. Saudi Arabias Center for International Communication didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Turkeys Foreign Ministry had no immediate comment. Bloomberg was unable to reach Khashoggi by telephone. Yasin Aktay, an adviser to the chairman of Turkeys ruling AK Party, didnt respond to calls to his mobile phone. Saudi Arabia has cracked down on dissent since the rise to power of 33-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, arresting activists, businessmen and religious scholars who dont support the governments policies. Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir said last year that one of the roundups had targeted people who were pushing an extremist agenda with the help of foreign funding. Khashoggi has lived in the US since last year after leaving Saudi Arabia over concerns he would be arrested or prevented from travelling abroad. He became one of Saudi Arabias most prominent journalists after interviewing Osama bin Laden in Afghanistan. Under previous Saudi monarchs he was close to the government, serving as adviser to senior officials, including former intelligence chief Prince Turki Al-Faisal. During his self-imposed exile, Khashoggi has become a vocal critic of Prince Mohammeds increasingly authoritarian tendencies, writing columns in the Washington Post that struck a nerve inside the kingdom. He was subjected to frequent attacks online calling him a traitor and accusing him of being funded by enemies of Saudi Arabia. Before entering the consulate, he had told his fiancee to call the Turkish authorities if he was late. Left Kingdom Jamal and I have not seen eye to eye on many issues but having him go missing like this is awful and my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family, tweeted Ali Shihabi, head of the Arabia Foundation, a pro-Saudi think tank in the US. Prince Mohammeds clampdown has undercut his efforts to fashion himself as a modernizer trying to open Saudi Arabias economy and loosen social restrictions. In May, some of the countrys most prominent womens rights activists were arrested as well, accused of cooperating with unspecified foreign entities. Many Saudis say space for respectful criticism has shrunk, while local journalists complain of escalating government pressure. Separately, a Saudi Arabian national who is wanted for non-sufficient funds checks was arrested and extradited to the kingdom, according to a report by state-owned Saudi Press Agency. The report didnt identify the arrested individual or where he was extradited from. The action was taken within the framework of international cooperation between Saudi Interpol and Interpol member states to combat overseas and public crimes in all its forms, according to SPA. (This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.) The US is unlikely to revoke the suspension of aid to Pakistan until it sees substantial progress against terrorists and their safe havens, the Trump administration has told Islamabad as top officials of the two countries met here to try to reset their strained ties. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, during their separate meetings with Pakistans new Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, are understood to have told him that in its assessment, the US does not see any changes on the ground when it comes to taking action against terrorists operating from the Pakistani soil. Given Pakistans influence over the Taliban, the Trump administration also wants it to bring them to the negotiating table to end the nearly 17-year-long strife. The meeting between Qureshi and Pompeo is understood to have lasted for 20 minutes at the Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department. The White House normally does not issue a readout of the meeting that its National Security Advisor has with foreign leaders. Qureshi and Pompeo did appear for a hand-shake photo op before the meeting. According to informed sources familiar with the development, the US side is upset because of Qureshis faux pas about a handshake he had with President Donald Trump during a luncheon in New York, which he described to the media as a meeting. The situation in war-torn Afghanistan dominated the separate meetings Qureshi held with Bolton and Pompeo. Qureshi met Bolton for 40 minutes at the White House before heading to the State Department for another meeting with Pompeo. The second meeting was also attended by Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and Ambassador Ali Jehangir Siddiqui. In a readout, the Embassy of Pakistan here said Qureshi had a wide range of discussions with both Pompeo and Bolton which included among others bilateral and regional issues including Pakistans strained relations with India. Qureshi said that close engagement between Pakistan and the US had always been mutually beneficial and a factor for stability in South Asia. He stressed that, going forward, a broad-based and structured framework for dialogue would best serve the two countries shared interests, the statement said. Noting that Pakistan and the US share a common desire for peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region at large, Qureshi reiterated Pakistans support for a political settlement in Afghanistan, saying use of force had failed to deliver results. Qureshi told Pompeo that peace in South Asia, which was a common goal for both the US and Pakistan, would remain elusive until all disputes, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir, are resolved. Pompeo, according to the embassy statement, said the US looked forward to working with the new government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan in implementing its reform agenda. In the context of achieving stability in South Asia, Qureshi briefed his US interlocutor about Indias aggressive posturing in the region. Qureshi underscored that, on its part, Pakistan remained committed to engaging India in a comprehensive peace dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, the statement added. Pompeo, who was in Islamabad on September 5 on his first visit to Pakistan as the top American diplomat, had met Prime Minister Imran Khan and pressed him to take sustained and decisive measures against terrorists threatening the regional peace and stability. The ties between the two countries strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to agents of chaos that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has much to lose by harbouring terrorists. Last month, the Trump administration cancelled USD 300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups active on its soil. (This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.) By Nikhat Fatima, TwoCircles.net A fact-finding team from Civil liberties monitoring committee (CLMC) visited Miryalguda and the house of Permulla Balaswamy, father of the late Pranay Kumar, who was murdered in a case of honour killing on 14 September. The committee met the bereaved family and other local persons to know the truth of the murder. Miryalguda is a town in Nalgonda district of Telangana State with a population of 1,09,891 from different religions and castes. Pranays father Balaswamy is an LIC employee while Premlatha, his wife, is a homemaker. They have two sons and Pranay Kumar was the eldest of the two. Facts of the case: Support TwoCircles On 14th of September, Friday, Pranay, 23, his wife Amrutha, 21 and Pranays mother Premalatha had gone to a maternity hospital for a check-up as Amrutha is pregnant. As they were walking out of the hospital, an unknown assailant came up from behind and hacked Pranay to death striking two fatal blows on each side of his neck. Pranay died on the spot while Amrutha fell down unconscious. The unknown assailant was caught on the camera but escaped from the spot. Balaswamy told this committee, I knew Maruthi Rao, Amruthas father would do some mischief but I never imagined that he would kill my son. I was always apprehensive that he would harm me because I accepted their marriage and even arranged for a reception.But Maruthi Rao killed my son instead. From day one he did not accept my son as his son in law. Initially, even Pranays family were against this relationship because of the differences in the castes. Pranay was a Dalit Christian from the Mala caste while Amrutha Varshini belonged to the Vaishya (traders) community which is an upper caste. But the couple were so much in love and nothing could stop them. Balaswamy told us that the children were good friends right from their school days when they were studying at Kakathiya Concept School in Miryalaguda. Amrutha was Pranays junior by two years. Later, when they were pursuing their higher studies in Hyderabad their love blossomed as there were no restrictions or prying eyes in the city like Miryalaguda town. But in 2017 the families learnt of their relationship. Amruthas father, Maruthi Rao, a real estate developer and owner of several properties was against his only daughters affair and kept her confined in the house for nearly six months. Since Pranays parents too disapproved, the couple eloped and got married at an Arya Samaj temple in Hyderabad in January 2018. Pranays parents relented and helped the couple settle by renting out a villa for them in Hyderabad and furnishing it. They even threw a reception for them when they learnt that Amrutha was expecting. It was a grand affair and the videos and pictures that Amrutha posted on her Facebook page were like scenes from a fairy tale. The video and pictures were viral with thousands of likes and shares. And perhaps Maruthi also saw these videos which enraged him further. We were told that these videos and the thousands of likes infuriated Maruthi Rao that he actually wanted to post a video of Pranay being killed. The plan for Murder: Maruthi personally knew Mohammed Bari, who resided in Nalgonda which is around 60 kilometres from Miryalaguda. Bari and Maruthi Rao knew each other from the last few years. And Bari had a criminal past. When Maruti told him of the plan to bump off Pranay, Bari contacted his friends in crime and a deal was struck for Rs.1 crore as per the police. The others arrested in the case are Subash Sharma, who was with Bari in a prison and is the person who hacked Pranay; Asghar Ali, who was one of the accused in the murder of Hiren Pandya, former Home Minister of Gujrat, Abdul Kareem, a transport operator and also a friend of Maruthi Rao, Sravan, a relative of Maruti and Shiva, Marutis driver. And of course, Maruti Rao himself who is the main accused in the case. It has come to light that Rs 16 lakh was paid in advance to the hired killers. Before September 14, the hired contract killer Sharma who is from Bihar was brought to Miryalgudda and familiarised with the town. Balaswamy, Pranays father said, It is a planned murder and the killer was such an expert he did his job swiftly and fled from the scene. He also said that he has seen the FIR and the sections under which the 7 accused are booked under 302 (Murder), 34 (Acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention), 120b (Party to a criminal conspiracy) read with 109 (Abetment) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and Section 3(2)(v) of the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. Amruthas stand: Amrutha, now very frail and tired due to the constant appearances on various channels and pestered by all the newspapers was suffering from a severe cough. She is now in the 6th month of pregnancy and is living with her in-laws. She does not ever want to go back to her father. One can see the dark circles under her eyes and the sad forlorn look in her eyes as she sleeps in a room adorned with pictures of Pranay and herself. But she speaks with determination when she says she wants her father to be punished as she is sure that he is behind the murder of her husband. And she has reason to believe so because when her father learnt of her pregnancy he had wanted her to abort the child. And right from the beginning, he was dead against their relationship. Support for Pranay: On the day of the funeral which was on Sunday and also before that there were hordes of people from different religions and castes visiting the family to show their solidarity. The youth groups were especially charged and vowed to fight alongside the family till justice is delivered. Dalit groups and activists all came to offer condolences and demand for justice. There was chanting of slogans that said, Pranay amar rahe and Long live Dalit unity and even Laal salaam. When the funeral procession was taken from the church there was a sea of people. Support for Maruthi: However, there was another group of people who felt the murder was justified. The people from Vaishya community who took out a rally in Nalgonda District with banners that said, We support Maruti Rao. But, not all of the Vaishya community members support Maruti, said Pranays father. He said there were many people from the Vaishya community who came to offer condolences and they condoled the action of other Vaishya who supported Maruti. But we can see several groups and individuals hailing from upper castes being vocal about their support to Maruti. They have posed questions such as, Will you accept/ be quiet if your daughter marries a man from low caste? Does it not hurt the parents who bring up their daughters/ sons with so much of love to see them go against their wishes and marry a person of low caste? There have been some who felt aghast when Amrutha spoke on the TV accusing her father and saying that she wants him to be punished. Statue for Pranay: Pranay has become a martyr for the Dalit community and all others who believe in love. His untimely death for being a Dalit has caused outrage and at the same time made him a hero. The youth groups and also others and even Amrutha, his wife want a statue of Pranay erected in their town. But as soon as the upper caste people got wind of this plan, they began protesting and even wrote to the government officials not to grant permission for a statue to be built. Will justice be done? Although there are visitors every day to meet the parents of Pranay and offer them support, Balaswamy says the accused may get a bail in a month or two and after that, the case may prolong for years together. Will we get justice? Findings: 1. Upper caste hegemony reflects clearly in this case. It is a fact that in this era of the 21st Century caste is the base of Hindu society in India. It is also a fact that the mindset of upper caste people has not yet changed. The upper castes still believe in the caste system and being of upper caste is an honour for them. Dalits are untouchables and maintaining relations with a Dalit community is against their dignity. 2. The fact that even Pranays family were well to do and owned a duplex and in a position to provide all comforts to Amrutha was not enough which again shows that caste was the only criteria for this murder. 3. Maruti Rao hatched the conspiracy to kill Pranay in a well-planned manner just to maintain his dignity and he is proud about this killing. 4. In this case, the upper caste Vaishya community have united and are supporting a criminal act by conducting rallies, press conference and through social media. Now it has become a trend in India to support the criminals, especially when the victims are Dalits and Muslims. Demands: Civil Liberties monitoring committee demands that a special investigation team (SIT) be constituted for investigation and a special Fast-track court be formed for the case trail in Hyderabad city so that free and fair trial can be done. Respect the will and wish of Pranays wife for building a statue of Pranay and starting a trust in the name of her husband. Grant ex gratia to the family of Balaswamy and Pranays wife Amruthavarshini Provide a govt gob to Amrutha, Pranays wife. CLMC also demands of a firm action to be taken against those who are supporting this killing in the name of honour. Wall-mounted Care is taken to preserve the condition of signs when they're removed from stations, more so than has been taken in the past, so museum spokesperson Chris Nix says the pieces they've been getting of late have been in "tip top condition." Mainly private buyers so far, the most expensive item sold was a 1,200 Whitechapel roundel with east London arrow directions. Pulbrook & Gould, Battersea Pulbrook & Gould, the go-to florist of European royals and fashion houses, is usually beyond the budgets of all but A-lister celebrities and high-end interior designers. Creative director Harald Altmaier is the vision behind the glamorous stand-out floral displays that the firm has provided as the backdrop to celebrity photo shoots for the likes of Allison Williams and Cate Blanchett. > Read more JAMES GARDINER Now Open 3 October 2018 Confirming its confidence in the rebound of the tourism industry in earthquake-affected Indonesian island Lombok, Wyndham Destinations has opened a brand new all-suite resort in an effort to draw tourists back. Located in the southern Gili Islands around an hour drive from the main Lombok Airport, Wyndham Sundancer Lombok consists of 66 apartments and 76 villas ranging from one and two bedrooms. Each self-contained accommodation offers complimentary wi-fi to guests along with a large balcony, kitchen facilities and separate bathroom with shower and oversized bath. Public facilities include a lagoon-style swimming pool with swim-up bar, while dining options are three-fold in the form of the all-day eateries Sunrise Cafe and Sundancer Beach Club. An a la carte fine dining restaurant, The Bukit, is open for dinner each evening. The Bukit is also adaptable as an event space, convertible for parties up to 150 cocktail style or 100 seated. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts South East Asia and Pacific Rim President and Managing Director Joon Aun Ooi said he was confident the efforts of the Indonesia people and relief groups will ensure Lombok makes a full recovery as a destination soon. Now Open 3 October 2018 With nearly 850 locations in over 60 countries, Ramada by Wyndham is one of the most recognized hotel brands in the world. Ramada's signature red colour continues to spread across Europe with the opening of Ramada by Wyndham Lisbon, the brand's first hotel in Portugal. This exciting new opening adds to a growing portfolio of over 120 Ramada by Wyndham hotels all across Europe, including in key destinations such as the UK, Belgium, Germany, Greece, Italy and the Netherlands. Ramada by Wyndham Lisbon will be operated by Portuguese hospitality management expert Discovery Hotel Management, under a long-term franchise agreement with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. Ramada by Wyndham Lisbon is set amongst the picturesque hills surrounding Lisbon, with panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River, and is close to the famous Bela Vista Park. With Lisbon's lively city center only 15 minutes away by metro, and just a short drive from Lisbon International Airport, this hotel is the perfect base for both holidaymakers and business travelers alike. Located on-site of the former Olaias Park Hotel, Ramada by Wyndham Lisbon has been re-designed by internationally renowned architects Broadway Malyan to offer a sophisticated and refined concept. Featuring 300 rooms - including classic, superior, suites and executive rooms - the stylish hotel also includes two floors of conference and events space, with 11 meeting rooms and a state-of-the-art auditorium which can accommodate up to 280 people. Ramada by Wyndham is part of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the hospitality powerhouse with nearly 9,000 hotels across more than 80 countries. Ramada by Wyndham Lisbon is the latest addition to Wyndham Hotels & Resorts' growing footprint in Portugal, which includes 11 operational hotels under the Dolce Hotels & Resorts by Wyndham and TRYP by Wyndham brands. Now Open 3 October 2018 Swiss-Belhotel International, the global hospitality management chain, has celebrated the grand opening of Swiss-Belinn Modern Cikande, a stylish new midscale hotel in Banten, the westernmost province of Java, Indonesia. This landmark opening marks the arrival of the first internationally-branded hotel in Serang, Banten's capital, and to mark this occasion a major launch party was held on 27 September 2018 featuring traditional dance performances, speeches from top executives and an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event was graced by the attendance of Hj. Ratu Tatu Chasanah, the Regent of Serang, along with PT. Modernland Realty Tbk President Commisioner, Luntungan Honoris and President Director, William Honoris, PT. Modern Asia Hotel (subsidiary of PT. Modernland Realty, Tbk) Managing Director, Reagan Honoris, Swiss-Belhotel International Chairman and President Gavin M. Faull and Senior VP of Operations and Development for Indonesia, Malaysia Cambodia, Emmanuel Guillard and many other high-level dignitaries. "I am honoured to be here today as we celebrate the grand opening of Swiss-Belinn Modern Cikande. This exceptional hotel will provide world-class accommodation, facilities and hospitality to the rising number of travellers - especially business guests - now visiting the thriving region of Banten. On behalf of everyone at Swiss-Belhotel International, I would like to thank Hospitality PT Modernland Realty for creating such an outstanding property. We look forward to delivering Swiss-Belhotel's renowned hospitality to all our guests," commented Gavin M. Faull. Ideally situated within a business park in Serang, and with a choice of accommodation for short and extended stays, Swiss-Belinn Modern Cikande will be perfectly suited to corporate travellers. The hotel is also just 100km from downtown Jakarta and easily accessible from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, while the industrial city of Cilegon and the new corporate hub of Karawaci are just a short drive away. Swiss-Belinn Modern Cikande features a total of 165 contemporary rooms and suites, all featuring work areas and international amenities including 42-inch LED TVs, Wi-Fi, universal power outlets, laptop-sized electronic safes and rain showers. There are also 12 one-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes and separate living areas for guests who need to stay a little longer. Guests will be able to enjoy breakfast and all-day dining at the Swiss Kitchen restaurant, plus 24-hour room service, while the pool bar provides a great setting for after-work cocktails. Other facilities include a fitness centre, a spa, an outdoor pool with kid's paddling area, and prayer rooms. Finally, six flexible function rooms can host all types of event, from grand social occasions to private business meetings, training seminars and more, supported by state-of-the-art audio-visual technology. Banten forms the western end of Java, overlooking the Sunda Strait which separates the island from neighbouring Sumatra. The province is also just a short distance from Jakarta and major ports, and this highly strategic position makes Banten a hugely important economic area for the whole of Indonesia. With its focus on stylish yet affordable accommodation, modern facilities and connectivity, the midscale Swiss-Belinn brand is the perfect fit for emerging cities like Serang. Swiss-Belinn Modern Cikande is expected to become a leading choice for the rising number of travellers now visiting this up-and-coming destination. Now Open 3 October 2018 Marriott International, Inc. today announced that a combined 180-suite SpringHill Suites and 155-suite TownePlace Suites hotel in Orlando, Florida will open on Tuesday, October 9, 2018. Located at 8040 Palm Parkway, the property will be managed by InterMountain Management, LLC of Monroe Louisiana. General Manager Clint Militzer and Director of Sales Nicole Belue lead the management team for InterMountain Management. The six-story property will share 3,767 square feet of meeting space, a fitness center, an onsite bar and grill, a beach-entry pool and splash pad, an arcade, a business center and a complimentary hot breakfast buffet. Located 15 miles from Orlando International Airport, the dual-branded property offers guests convenient access to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, Fun Spot Disney Springs and the Orlando Convention Center. "Attracting both business and leisure travelers, the Orlando area is an ideal location for this dual opening," said Janis Milham, Senior Vice President, Classic Select Brands for Marriott International. "Each brand offers distinct amenities and services that tailor to all visitors." About The SpringHill Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista/Palm Parkway With suites that are larger than typical hotel rooms, the new SpringHill Suites features separate living, working and sleeping spaces for flexibility and functionality. Comfortable beds, soft linens and plush pillows allow for an optimum night's sleep. Each suite also features the SpringHill Suites' custom, three-in-one, stylish West Elm sofa which converts from a sofa to a daybed to a trundle bed and a West Elm Swivel Chair that offers an additional option for relaxation. A well-lit desk space ensures maximum productivity for those who need to get down to business. Every aspect of design - from furniture and lighting to colors and fabrics - has been carefully selected to offer calm and refreshing spaces that allow guests to relax and recharge. About The TownePlace Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista/Palm Parkway Ideal for travelers who need accommodations for longer stays, the TownePlace Suites offers studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens that have stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, as well as separate living/working and sleeping areas. Guests can work and relax on their terms in modern suites that feature a fun, yet sophisticated sofa and task chair, a large flat screen television as well as luxurious new bedding. Most rooms also feature the Home OfficeO Suite, complete with The Container Store's elfa closet system, designed to provide guests with plenty of storage and flexible space to spread out and make it their own. Pipeline 3 October 2018 AccorHotels, the world's leading travel & lifestyle group, and Platinum Properties Limited Ltd, the Project Company of the Pullman Accra Airport City, have announced the signing of a landmark agreement for Pullman Accra Airport City, the country's first Pullman branded hotel and Pullman Living serviced apartments located in the heart of Accra's Airport City. The agreement was recognised by Kwame Nyantekyi-Owusu, Chairman of Inter-Afrique Holdings and Mark Willis, CEO Middle East & Africa, AccorHotels, at a signing ceremony at the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF). The partnership will lead to the opening of the 363-key hotel and serviced apartments, making it the largest hotel and the first dual hospitality offering in Ghana set to open in 2021. Commenting on the announcement, Mark Willis said: "Today's announcement marks the much anticipated expansion of one of our most renowned upscale brands - Pullman - and signifies the start of our partnership with Dr. Kwame Nyantekyi-Owusu, whom I would like to thank for his support and confidence in AccorHotels. This agreement is an important step towards expanding our network in Sub Saharan Africa and demonstrates our dedication to developing the most distinct hospitality concepts, including Pullman Living, our compelling extended stay solution in the premium market." "Pullman Accra Airport City will solidify our presence in a country where we already operate an Ibis Styles as well as the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra, and combined with the latter, our foothold in the premium segment is reinforced with a complementary and prime location in Airport City. Moreover, this project will strengthen our brand's visibility in West Africa where we already operate in Dakar and Abidjan and have signed a Pullman hotel in Lagos earlier this year, he concluded." Pullman Accra will feature 214 hotel rooms and suites; and 149 serviced apartments under the Pullman Living brand, responding to a growing demand for extended-stay accommodation in Accra. Located within the Airport City enclave, a commercial hub, Pullman Accra Airport City will be a preferred destination for corporate guests and clients in Accra. The new-build, upscale hotel is anticipated to become a major venue for conferences and events with seven meeting rooms, dedicated banqueting facilities in addition to being located just a few minutes away from Kotoka International Airport. In addition, Pullman Accra Airport City will offer two restaurants, providing a range of international cuisines, pool bars, two swimming pools and lush landscaped areas. Pullman Accra Airport City is a joint development between equity partners Inter-Afrique Holdings Ltd. and Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund ("GIIF"), the private sector focused sovereign wealth fund of Ghana with diversified interests in infrastructure and tourism. The development is managed by Inter-Afrique Properties Limited as development manager; Diagonal Projects Africa as project manager; with IBC Equity Partners as Transaction Advisor and W Hospitality Limited as hotel consultant. Dr. Kwame Nyantekyi-Owusu, Executive Chairman of Inter-Afrique Holdings Ltd ("the Project Sponsor") and Chairman of the Project Company said: "We are pleased to appoint AccorHotels to manage our first hotel in Accra. The contemporary upscale value proposition of the Pullman Brand will make Pullman Accra Airport City stand out and appeal to both business and leisure guests. We are confident that the Pullman brand is the perfect fit for the Accra market owing to the strong brand positioning of Pullman as an upscale business hotel. We are positioned to leverage on the attractiveness of Ghana as a major business hub and thriving economy to outdoor such landmark developments in our pipeline. Our development of the Pullman Accra Airport City is the first of our Group's pipeline of world-class commercial real estate developments, and we are particularly pleased to have completed this with a strong strategic partner like GIIF." There are currently over 115 Pullman hotels in 33 countries worldwide with close to 35,000 rooms. In Africa and the Middle East, Pullman accounts for 12 hotels with more than 4,000 rooms. Pullman Accra Airport City will join a range of flagship addresses worldwide including Pullman Dakar and Pullman Abidjan. Appointment 3 October 2018 sbe, Hiring Emily highlights the importance of the region to sbe where it has a spectacular portfolio of eleven hotels and residences in the area including the sold-out SLS Lux Brickell which opened this summer, the Delano hotel, SLS South Beach and the newly opened Hyde Hotel and Residence Midtown. As well as food and beverage at sbe's Miami hotels, Leveen-Aguilar will be responsible for sbe's culinary offering in The Bahamas, home to sbe's SLS Baha Mar. SLS Baha Mar is one of sbe's most relevant properties in terms of venues, and will boast ten irresistible culinary and nightlife concepts by the end of 2018 with the opening of Carna, Umami and Skybar joining the award-winning Cleo, Fi'lia and Katsuya venues. Emily will work in close collaboration with Martin Heierling, sbe's Chief Culinary Officer, on evolving the food and beverage offering at over 30 restaurant and club venues in Miami and The Bahamas and support Martin as he develops new food and beverage concepts across sbe's properties. Emily will report directly into Sam Nazarian, Chairman and CEO of sbe. Emily joins at a time when sbe is going through a period of rapid expansion with plans to more than double its hotel portfolio to 50 hotels and residences by 2021. This includes deals in new territories in Latin America. sbe also opened its first hotel in the Middle East - Mondrian Doha - at the end of last year with more planned, including two further properties in Dubai - Mondrian and Delano - an SLS in Doha in 2019, and Hyde Doha in 2020 to mention a few. Before joining sbe, Emily spent 13 years with Starr Restaurants where she began managing Morimoto in Philadelphiabecoming the General Manager for five and half years. Emily moved to Miami at the end of 2010 to open Stephen Starr'sfirst Miami restaurant in the Bal Harbour Shops, Makoto, from the beginning of construction to opening day. In 2014, Emily became Director of Restaurants to oversee all future Starr Restaurants in Miami. Working alongside owner, Stephen Starr, and the rest of the Executive team, Emily opened Continental Miami, Le Zoo, and Upland Miami. the leading lifestyle hospitality company that develops, manages and operates award-winning hotels, residences, restaurants and nightclubs, announced the appointment of Emily Leveen-Aguilar as Vice President of Food & Beverage at its Miami and Caribbean venues. Emily will oversee the lifestyle food and beverage and all of sbe's hotels in greater Miami and The Bahamas and work closely with the area and hotel operations general managers to re-instill the essence and culture of each brand element which is so important to all of sbe's venues. Opinion Article 3 October 2018 It appears that, over the years, major improvements in the American worker's standard of living were triggered by either of two events: Advertisements 1) American workers, frustrated with low wages, used unions and strikes to help them achieve their goals. The results were usually destructive in many ways: strikers did not bring home the bacon, once their union's fund was depleted (which usually took no more than a few days - administrative costs, as we all know -). The employer, in the meantime, was hurt in its productivity and therefore ability to generate profits. And if many US manufacturing jobs moved abroad over the past quarter century, it was NOT due to automation, but to the fact that beggars can't be choosers, and that the pre-teen worker in Sri Lanka has to worry about whether he will eat today, as opposed to whether he can afford a new car. 2) American employers, and their very expensive yet very effective lobbies on Capital Hill, have been convinced believers of the "trickle down effect". Any economy providing a tax break to the corporate world will automatically result in higher wages for its workers. Wrong too, as we are currently witnessing that recent substantial corporate tax breaks have done little for vastly increased profit to be distributed. If neither of the above are sustainable, what is the largest economic power in the world to do? Import tariffs: it could be a reasonable approach, if globalization, which took over a century to become a reality, was to disappear overnight. Suppose you want to get the populace to "Buy American" when it comes to automobiles. Fine, but that would contradict the heavy tariffs being levied on imported steel. Steel accounts for up to 18% of a car's cost. How about hides to make upholstery: they come from Spain and South America. Put a tariff on them and they will become prohibitive. The US has the fourth largest herd of cattle in the world (after India, Brazil and China) yet we don't seem to be capable to turn a profit from using hides. Electronics are coming to us pre-assembled. So do precision clocks and the like, coming to us from Western Europe. Let's face it: we are too rich for our own good, and that will NOT change as long as we continue to take it for granted. Take a moral and enlightened approach to business. Happy people are productive people. I realize it sounds simplistic. It has however been proven time and time again. Happy people do not leave, therefore reducing staff turnover, therefore lowering recruiting, training, insurance costs. Happy and gainfully employed people are more likely to become shareholders of their employers than if they were feeling "exploited" or unfairly compensated. Profit sharing should be a must: no business model can survive that does not share its profits with those who helped generate them. It is not the line worker nor middle management that can incur huge business losses: it is the C suite and the Board of Directors. Should they get away with poor business decisions while those not even associated in the decision-making process are left holding the bag? Folks, this is not SOCIALISM. This is COMMON SENSE. Leveen-Aguilar joins senior leadership team at Disruptive Group, sbe's Food and Beverage, Nightlife Division sbe, the leading lifestyle hospitality company that develops, manages and operates award-winning hotels, residences, restaurants and nightclubs, announced the appointment of Emily Leveen-Aguilar as Vice President of Food & Beverage at its Miami and Caribbean venues. Emily will oversee the lifestyle food and beverage and all of sbe's hotels in greater Miami and The Bahamas and work closely with the area and hotel operations general managers to re-instill the essence and culture of each brand element which is so important to all of sbe's venues. Sam Nazarian, sbe Founder and CEO, stated: "Emily is a seasoned veteran in the field of food and beverage and has built her career on running, opening and creating restaurants and restaurant brands we're hugely excited to bring her on at a leadership level at sbe. We're currently going through an unprecedented period of global growth and we're thrilled that we now have Emily's expertise on-board to support our continuously rapid expansion and overall global company strategy." Emily Leveen-Aguilar, said of her new appointment: "I've worked with many amazing chefs over the course of my career and the culinary offering from sbe's iconic restaurant brands, spearheaded by Sam Nazarian, has always impressed and interested me. I am excited to be reunited with and work alongside Martin Heierling, sbe's Chief Culinary Officer, to develop new and exciting concepts that our guests across Miami and the Bahamas will love." Hiring Emily highlights the importance of the region to sbe where it has a spectacular portfolio of eleven hotels and residences in the area including the sold-out SLS Lux Brickell which opened this summer, the Delano hotel, SLS South Beach and the newly opened Hyde Hotel and Residence Midtown. As well as food and beverage at sbe's Miami hotels, Leveen-Aguilar will be responsible for sbe's culinary offering in The Bahamas, home to sbe's SLS Baha Mar. SLS Baha Mar is one of sbe's most relevant properties in terms of venues, and will boast ten irresistible culinary and nightlife concepts by the end of 2018 with the opening of Carna, Umami and Skybar joining the award-winning Cleo, Fi'lia and Katsuya venues. Emily will work in close collaboration with Martin Heierling, sbe's Chief Culinary Officer, on evolving the food and beverage offering at over 30 restaurant and club venues in Miami and The Bahamas and support Martin as he develops new food and beverage concepts across sbe's properties. Emily will report directly into Sam Nazarian, Chairman and CEO of sbe. Emily joins at a time when sbe is going through a period of rapid expansion with plans to more than double its hotel portfolio to 50 hotels and residences by 2021. This includes deals in new territories in Latin America. sbe also opened its first hotel in the Middle East Mondrian Doha at the end of last year with more planned, including two further properties in Dubai Mondrian and Delano an SLS in Doha in 2019, and Hyde Doha in 2020 to mention a few. Before joining sbe, Emily spent 13 years with Starr Restaurants where she began managing Morimoto in Philadelphia becoming the General Manager for five and half years. Emily moved to Miami at the end of 2010 to open Stephen Starr's first Miami restaurant in the Bal Harbour Shops, Makoto, from the beginning of construction to opening day. In 2014, Emily became Director of Restaurants to oversee all future Starr Restaurants in Miami. Working alongside owner, Stephen Starr, and the rest of the Executive team, Emily opened Continental Miami, Le Zoo, and Upland Miami. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource Resorts face unique challenges. They are usually more expensive, geographically harder to reach and incur longer stays than standard full-service hotels. Many are built in 'clusters' in a destination, too, which can make it tough to differentiate ones product from the resort next door. These challenges require smart, skillful marketing. This article originally appeared on Tambourine. Resorts face unique challenges. They are usually more expensive, geographically harder to reach and incur longer stays than standard full-service hotels. Many are built in 'clusters' in a destination, too, which can make it tough to differentiate ones product from the resort next door. These challenges require smart, skillful marketing. Much of it comes down to the nuances of the product and destination, and how the value of these aspects is communicated to potential guests. To meet revenue projections and outperform their comp set, smart resort marketers focus on these 10 things: 1. Be vigilant about product and service experience The only way to truly inspire guests to return to your resort after their initial visit is to provide a fantastic product and service experience, from the look and feel of the property to the amenities, F&B and activities offered, like on-property programming, a special events schedule, kids club, etc. The most important aspect of resort marketing is the product itself Couples Resorts Jamaica, for example, generates 35% to 40% of its bookings from repeat business, in some cases welcoming guests whove made visiting there a multi-generational tradition. The companys four all-inclusive Jamaican resorts achieve this by offering a comprehensive menu of resort activities and amenities, but also superb dining experiences, custom add-ons and various special events, like its pop-up JamRock Beach Club. Still more, the staff is renowned for their personal, above-and-beyond approach to serving guests. Our product, and our offering, leads the hospitality business when it comes to the number of repeat guests that we see year in and year out. Its frankly amazing, said Dean Sullivan, VP of sales and marketing for Couples Resorts Jamaica. We have weddings of sons or daughters of the previous generation. We have guests arriving in a few days, and it will be their 1,000th night. We see that across each of our properties. As a marketer, that makes my job, in a sense, very easy. 2. Have a powerful, unique and/or emotional story A key point for any successful resort marketing program is developing and maintaining a clear understanding of the resorts identity and story, including what makes it unique in the marketplace, what customer profile it caters to and what those customers value most. These core elements should be at the root of all marketing efforts and accompanying communications strategies. The resort is on my familys property, so on our website, its all about the resort being a family-owned business, said David Dodwell, Jr., GM of the Reefs Resort & Club in Bermuda. We communicate to the guest that theyre not coming to just a hotel; theyre coming to a family-style hotel. We really try to make our guests feel like theyre part of our family, so our marketing approach emphasizes that and conveys that feel. 3. Be the epicenter of your destination Rather than operating as a self-contained city, resorts should integrate seamlessly with their destination and market, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with the many other local businesses serving visitors. This may entail partnering with scuba shops, purveyors of snorkel trips, or horseback riding guides, to create for guests the additional experiences only available outside the resort. Optimally, the idea is to blend together the value that both the resort and destination offer, and match your marketing methods accordingly. For example, if the destination is marketed heavily toward a certain demographic, be sure your own marketing messages match the audience whom the destination is trying to reach. A lot of others want to keep people on the resort as much as possible, for obvious reasons, but we really feel strongly that a good relationship between the resort and the destination is critical, said Dodwell. People arent just coming to stay at our resort; theyre coming to experience Bermuda as an island, and they want to get out and experience it. 4. Emphasize F&B and wellness One of the key differentiators and demand drivers for virtually any resort property are its food and beverage (F&B) and wellness offerings, including its spa facilities, as these are some of the most popular, sought-after vacation activities. Providing memorable, even extraordinary experiences in these settings can yield untold amounts of future repeat business, as well as new business; the latter generated by recommendations and through user-generated social media postings. The service levels for these kinds of resort offerings also play a huge role. We have bartenders who remember the drinks that guests had 12 months ago, said Sullivan. 5. Ensure rate parity across all channels Smart resort marketers also know how to avoid creating dissonance with affluent, finicky guests. One way of dodging that bullet is to maintain consistent, transparent rate parity across all channels. This helps to ensure that a $600 per night luxury customer isnt sharing the hot tub with a guest that scored the same room for $150 on a last-minute discount site, who then tells the $600 guest all about the great deal they scored. 6. Partner with the local/regional CVB or tourist board In a similar spirit as #3, dont turn your back to the local convention & visitors bureau (CVB) and/or area tourism board operating in your market. These groups can be extremely valuable partners, especially for generating group and new business, which you can then convert into repeat guests, once theyve been enticed to sample the many wonderful offerings at your resort. 7. Manage seasonality Know how to extend your resorts prime season, limiting down demand periods with a strong offseason plan/campaign and creative ways to extend average length of stay. Promotions, group business and special events are some great ways of filling rooms during the trickier months of the year, including special dinners and wine tastings, partnering with local festivals and offering stay packages tied to seasonal activities. During slow times, resorts can also focus on the local market, selling staycations to locals seeking to spend the night and enjoy cool amenities nearby. One popular example is Couples Resorts Jamaicas Camp Couples promotion, which is marketed as a kind of summer camp for adults. Building upon its already lengthy list of amenities, during this special promotion the participating resorts build an active daily itinerary for guests, just as a young summer camper might experience. These are the kinds of innovations that can keep a resort busy, year-round. We dont have the deep pockets; we dont have the large advertising budget that our comp set has, said Sullivan. What we have is a fantastic product and fantastic word of mouth. 8. Have great photography At many resorts, guests need to travel a long way and pay a lot to stay with you. The photos of your resort need to be compelling and visually arresting in order to convince them that its worth the time and money. That means bucking up and paying for world-class hotel photography of the resort and all its amenities, so all your official communications, websites, etc., have better photos than the generic images that many hotels utilize. Savvy resort marketers further bolster their online content and social media imagery with guest-generated images, which provide social proof and authenticity Photos like this have helped Nihiwatu become the #1 hotel in the world! We work with a lot of user-generated contentlike people whove tagged us on Instagramto really give it that authentic feeling, said Dodwell. Its not your average picture of a beach again and again; we try to find some unique shots to really convey that the overall feel of the property is not just to come and sit on a beach and have a meal, but to interact, to meet people, meet our staff and experience Bermuda. 9. Take advantage of loyalty rewards redemptions carefully While there are many perks enjoyed by resorts that offer a loyalty program, there are some caveats. Resorts that use loyalty rewards redemption periods wisely use them to their advantage, promoting to loyalty members in periods of need, while limiting promotions in periods of high demand. Even independent properties lacking a formal loyalty program can utilize similar methods. In some cases, its as easy as building and maintaining a database of email addresses of guests whove opted-in to receive your online newsletter. You can then send out special promotions to those guests when seeking to plug holes in demand. We do a lot of email marketing and promotions to targeted segments, said Dodwell. We might do a targeted email to our repeat guests, saying, Hey, weve got a special rate out thats just for those who come regularly. Well do that at different times of the year to try to incentivize them to come back, especially the ones who havent come in the last couple of years. 10. Invest in video Videos like this for Couples Jamaica inspire resort consumers to include the resorts in their consideration set Finally, video is increasingly important to hotel digital marketing, so offering great video is just as essential as photography, and that comes at a price. Instead of frugal tactics, like trying to have your staff capture video on their phones, hire a videographer (or social media influencer) instead to shoot and edit some proper footage. Videos should be immersive and engaging, to drive inspiration for bookings and the necessary long-haul travel. After watching your video, guests should be more motivated than ever to come and experience your resort. About Tambourine Tambourine uses technology and creativity to increase revenue for hotels and destinations worldwide. The firm, now in its 34th year, is located in New York City and Fort Lauderdale. Please visit: www.Tambourine.com Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource Marriott International, Inc. today announced that a combined 180-suite SpringHill Suites and 155-suite TownePlace Suites hotel in Orlando, Florida will open on Tuesday, October 9, 2018. Located at 8040 Palm Parkway, the property will be managed by InterMountain Management, LLC of Monroe Louisiana. Marriott International, Inc. today announced that a combined 180-suite SpringHill Suites and 155-suite TownePlace Suites hotel in Orlando, Florida will open on Tuesday, October 9, 2018. Located at 8040 Palm Parkway, the property will be managed by InterMountain Management, LLC of Monroe Louisiana. General Manager Clint Militzer and Director of Sales Nicole Belue lead the management team for InterMountain Management. The six-story property will share 3,767 square feet of meeting space, a fitness center, an onsite bar and grill, a beach-entry pool and splash pad, an arcade, a business center and a complimentary hot breakfast buffet. Located 15 miles from Orlando International Airport, the dual-branded property offers guests convenient access to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, Fun Spot Disney Springs and the Orlando Convention Center. "Attracting both business and leisure travelers, the Orlando area is an ideal location for this dual opening," said Janis Milham, Senior Vice President, Classic Select Brands for Marriott International. "Each brand offers distinct amenities and services that tailor to all visitors." SpringHill Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista/Palm Parkway With suites that are larger than typical hotel rooms, the new SpringHill Suites features separate living, working and sleeping spaces for flexibility and functionality. Comfortable beds, soft linens and plush pillows allow for an optimum nights sleep. Each suite also features the SpringHill Suites custom, three-in-one, stylish West Elm sofa which converts from a sofa to a daybed to a trundle bed and a West Elm Swivel Chair that offers an additional option for relaxation. A well-lit desk space ensures maximum productivity for those who need to get down to business. Every aspect of design from furniture and lighting to colors and fabrics has been carefully selected to offer calm and refreshing spaces that allow guests to relax and recharge. TownePlace Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista/Palm Parkway Ideal for travelers who need accommodations for longer stays, the TownePlace Suites offers studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens that have stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, as well as separate living/working and sleeping areas. Guests can work and relax on their terms in modern suites that feature a fun, yet sophisticated sofa and task chair, a large flat screen television as well as luxurious new bedding. Most rooms also feature the Home OfficeO Suite, complete with The Container Stores elfa closet system, designed to provide guests with plenty of storage and flexible space to spread out and make it their own. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh is making headlines due to his being accused of sexual misconduct by two women. Many people are outraged. Some wonder why the man would be considered eligible to serve in the nation's highest court while others question the potential of his being blocked from the coveted position in this context. Donald Trump is part of the latter. The president addressed the issue with a spoken statement, part of which was shared by Charlamagne Tha God on social media. Trump's affirmations appeal to him. "It's a very scary time for young men in America when you can be guilty or something that you may not be guilty of. This is a very difficult time. What's happening here has much more to do than even the appointment of the Supreme Court justice. You can be somebody that was perfect your entire life and somebody can accuse you of something [...] Somebody can accuse you of something and you're automatically guilty. But in this realm, you are truly guilty until proven innocent." Although Charlamagne Tha God has had his fair share of challenges stemming from sexual misconduct claims, the entertainer turns the focus on a historical case. "Welcome To a Blackmans World. Now he knows how the Central Park 5 Felt." The Central Park 5 were accused and wrongfully convicted of raping a female jogger. After thirteen years behind bars, the true culprit who was an admitted serial rapist came forward. Whether you are a supporter or staunch critic of the 45th and current President of the United States, you are likely to receive a text message from him. According to CNN, millions of Americans can expect a text message from 45 that will serve as a test run, 'Presidential Alert.' The message is set to be sent around 2:18 ET tomorrow, Wednesday, October 3. It will supposedly read THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed." CNN explained that the test is not a political message, but an emergency test message sent from Donald as part of the Federal Emergency Management Agencys system to warn the public in cases of national emergencies. Earlier today, Trump told a reporter, its a very scary time for young men in America," following discussions about Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh who has had sexual assault allegations brought against him. "What do you say to young men in America?" asked a reporter. "Well, Id say that its a very scary time for young men in America when you can be guilty of something you may not be guilty of," responded Trump. He went on to say, "This is a very difficult time. Whats happening here has much more to do than even the appointment of a Supreme Court justice. It really does. You could be somebody who was perfect your entire life and somebody could accuse you of something." You can watch a video clip of Trump sharing his views below. https://twitter.com/_/status/1047178767406383107 When Kanye West descended from his Wyoming mountain-top workshop to host a listening party for his eighth studio album ye, the initial reaction was understandably mixed. Hundreds of reporters, influencers, musicians, and online personalities who had been flown out for the occasion immediately flocked to the internet to share their opinions beneath the starry sky of Jackson Hole. The narrative that unfolded was centered around Kanyes mental breakdown and hospitalization in October 2016 and his subsequent return to the limelight this past spring. With I hate being Bi-Polar its awesome plastered across the hastily put-together cover for the album, its no wonder that Kanye has become a recent talking point for mental healths intersection with hip-hop. A tumultuous past two years made for plenty of food for thought on the project, and culminated in an intimate conversation with Charlamagne Tha God that found Kanye addressing his internal struggles and the aftermath of being labeled crazy. In openly coming to terms with his breakthrough as he calls it, Kanye created a space to discuss the triggers and effects of mental illness and the difficulties faced by those who navigate it. The stigma attached to seeking treatment for anxiety and depression continues to exert a stranglehold on the black community. Of the nearly one in five U.S. adults who live with a mental illness (44.7 million in 2016), African Americans are 20% more likely to experience serious mental health problems than the general population. Hip-hop is reflective of this cultural imbalance. Its a genre that has long been plagued by toxic expectations that demand hyper-masculinity. Mental health is considered a taboo topic, something to be swept under the rug for fear of public backlash and ridicule. Unrealistic and downright harmful pressures to be strong and to mask emotions, paired with a resounding lack of guidance and mentorship, stifles conversations surrounding these issues. This leaves symptoms ignored and normalizes self-medication as a means of treatment. To make matters worse, African Americans arent prioritized by the mental health system, and are half as likely to use mental health services compared to white or Asian Americans. As a result of stigma and an inability to access mental health services, coupled with socio-economic disparities and racial realities, those who need help the most are often unable to get the treatment that they so desperately need. How is my favorite artist doing, mentally? is not a question that gets asked in hip-hop. Yet at its core, the genre has always been a catalyst for awareness, and an avenue for social change that provides a voice to the voiceless. For many, its a healing tool, informal therapy for those grappling with physical and emotional trauma, adverse childhoods, systematic racism, or any number of stumbling blocks. There is a lengthy list of songs on which artists have expressed personal pain: The Notorious B.I.G.s cinematic and haunting Suicidal Thoughts; Geto Boys paranoia anthem Mind Playing Tricks On Me; Gang Starrs poetic Moment of Truth; and 2Pacs message to his mother on Thugz Mansion. Eminems The Slim Shady LP is driven by overwhelming feelings of worthlessness, as is Earl Sweatshirts I Don't Like Shit, I Don't Go Outside. Kendrick Lamars To Pimp A Butterfly offers gut-wrenching moments of self-evaluation, most notably on u, where he provides insights into his depression and critiques himself with unwavering honesty. More contemporary commercial examples include Lil Uzi Verts XO TOUR Llif3, which addresses suicide, betrayal, and substance abuse, and XXXTentacions Jocelyn Flores, an ode to a friend of X who suffered from depression and ultimately committed suicide. The discussion surrounding mental health in hip hop is not new, but it is in the midst of a watershed moment. Where hip hop once failed to provide specific details or any practical knowledge, there is a tangible evolution to a conversation that once seemed impossible. Music and business icon Jay-Z dissected therapys growing importance in his life on the critically acclaimed 4:44, with tracks like Smile standing as a testament to his defiance of the dated anti-therapy narrative. In an interview with Elliott Wilson and Brian "B.Dot" Miller on Tidal's Rap Radar podcast, Jay-Z noted that initially reluctant conversations prompted critical self-assessment and valuable realizations. "We have to watch our healthour physical health and what we're doing with our bodies," he said. "But also our mental health. A lot of people going through trauma like that, and you're too embarrassed to get help for it. Especially in these neighborhoods where we grew up. He also addressed how his preconceived notions of therapy were shattered: When I first went to therapy, it was a probation thing. And I hated it I wasnt ready for that level of getting to know yourself. Its easy to get to know other people. Get to know yourself and really ask yourself the question you dont wanna hear: What role did you play in the things youve done? In response to the interview, former Everyday Struggle co-host Joe Budden agreed with Jay-Zs assessment: I would like to see hip hop address (mental health) more. Were so powerful as a culture. Like HOV said in that interview, we move things. Enough of us have died from mental health issues for us to look into it. Kid Cudi, who delved into his problems with depression and drug addiction on tracks such as The Prayer, Soundtrack 2 My Life and Reborn, has been vocal about his battles to overcome personal demons. A year ago I wouldnt even go to a therapist or psychiatrist. But I gave it a shot, he told Complex in 2013. Its working for me but its not for everyone. Ive got some fucking problems. Its good for me to talk to someone who helps me see things. I had no other choice. After checking himself into rehab in 2016, he published an empowering Facebook post detailing his struggles and highlighting the importance of seeking help. Run-D.M.C.s Darryl McDaniels published a book titled Ten Ways Not To Commit Suicide in which he advocated the benefits of therapy, and pushed for more black men to seek treatment: When I went to therapy I realized that therapy isnt soft, he said. My saying is, Therapy is gangsta. It actually empowered me. Logic, whose performance of hit song 1-800-273-8255 at the 2017 VMAs resulted in a 50% increase in calls to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, and Chance The Rapper, who sat down with Complex in 2017 to discuss his struggles with anxiety, both remain active in their efforts to raise awareness for mental health. Music fans connect with artists who are vulnerable and willing to share, something that is facilitated through the power of social media. Unfortunately, the advent of social media has brought destructive side effects. In a culture that consumes at an alarmingly rapid rate through a number of different outlets, image is now more important than ever. Scrutiny and sensationalism are the chief driving factors that contribute to a paralyzing cycle of denial, delusion, isolation, and unhealthy comparison. Round-the-clock social media use has been tied to increased anxiety and unhappiness in American teenagers, and a recent survey of almost 1,500 teens and young adults found that Instagram is the worst social media network for mental health and wellbeing. Furthermore, the glorification of drug use as a means to cope with depression and anxiety remains a divisive and deeply problematic topic in the hip-hop community, particularly given the fact that suicide was the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-34 in the U.S. Mac Millers recent passing due to a suspected drug overdose is a sobering reminder of the terrible power of addiction, a problem that transcends socioeconomic and racial boundaries. With hip-hop now reaching an increasingly global audience, the calls to action from several of the genres most recognizable faces give hope to a young and impressionable consumer base who remain captivated by what their role models are promoting. Hip-hop has the power to de-stigmatize conversations about mental health; although I can't condone some of Kanyes recent statements and decisions, or his blatant inability to properly articulate his thoughts, his startling transparency about his struggles is a step in the right direction. Rappers being open and upfront about their experiences with mental health, and more importantly with therapy, will hopefully encourage other members of the hip-hop community and the black community at large to acknowledge and confront issues of mental health head-on. Photos of a suspect were publicized by the Rochester Police Department. The images depict a white man who, according to many social media users, bears an uncanny resemblance to a rap star. The photoset went viral when they hinted at the men's likeness. The search for the wanted man gained a lot of attention and the police's efforts eventually yielded the desired results. Still, the legal authorities issued an update in order to offer clarity in terms of the identification of the male suspect. Their status update left no room for anyone to confuse the man in the photo with Slim Shady. "*****UPDATE: The subject has been identified, and we can confirm it is NOT Marshall Mathers***** Officer Robinson is looking to identify this male in regards to a criminal trespassing case. If you know the information about this suspects identity, please call 603-330-7128 and reference case 18-4300-OF. Thank you!" Many commenters had quickly referred to the Kamikaze artist by leaving some of his lyrics under the original post: "Hes probably just going round the outside, round the outside" "Will the real Slim Shady please fess up" "Look at him! Just walking around, grabbing his you know what, flipping the You know who." [via] Rihanna is making moves around the world in celebration of her Fenty Beauty anniversary. Yesterday she was in Singapore looking like a million bucks in a pink dress (dancing to Amine) and today she's in Sydney, Australia wearing a snakeskin get-up with a matching strapless dress, bucket hat, purse, and shoes. "I never could have anticipated the emotional connection that women are having with the products and the brand as a whole," Rihanna said about her product. "Some are finding their shade of foundation for the first time, getting emotional at the counter. Thats something I will never get over." She added: "Makeup is like a secret weapon. Depending on my mood, my look, or the occasion, makeup can go from very subtle to a complete transformation, and thats the fun in makeup: being able to play and create in endless ways." British actor and musician Riz Ahmed is currently on a press run to promote his forthcoming film, Venom. In his various appearances, Riz has opened up about how integral rap has been to his life. Along with his acting career, Riz is one-half of the Swet Shop Boys and maintains a solo rap career. Just recently, he told Jimmy Kimmel that he used rap to maneuver his way out of a difficult situation in his native country, Pakistan. While on an island off the coast of Karachi, Ahmed and his friends were approached by army officers who informed them that they were on a naval base, and were facing detention because they were foreign passport holders. Ahmed was able to recall the fact that poets are held in such high esteem in Pakistan, and impressed the officers with his rhymes securing freedom for himself and his friends. During his appearance on The Late Late Show, Ahmed and James Corden discussed Eminem's recent addition to the soundtrack for Venom. When Corden asked the actor whether he was a fan of the Missouri rapper he responded, Huge, huge Eminem fan. I mean, he just changed rap for me." Riz went on to share an amusing anecdote in which he accidentally used his parents' wedding VHS to record one of Slim Shady's performances revealing, I just put it in and recorded that video. It was only later that I realized I taped over my parent's wedding video. Ahmed finished the story by assuring the crowd that only a small amount of his parents' wedding footage was lost in the trade - in fact, the loss was so insignificant, Riz neglected to mention the mishap. They didnt know until now, so hopefully they dont watch this, he quipped. Mommy, Baba, Im really sorry, its Eminems fault. Catch a clip of Rizwan on The Late Late Show below. Tory Lanez has no shortage of moxie. Never one to back down from a conflict, the Toronto artist has been enjoying a successful 2018 campaign, which kicked off with his acclaimed album Memories Don't Die. Fans may recall the confessional nature of "Hate To Say," in which Tory reflected on a near scuffle with Travis Scott. "Me and Travi$ Scott almost fought at the Mala Luna, we both agreed shortly after that it was music," raps Tory, a claim later confirmed in unearthed video footage. Though Tory and Travis have since quelled the animosity, it would appear that Tory still views Scott as a rival of sorts. That's not to say any bad blood is harboured, but given their stylistic similarities and propensity for live acrobatics, it seems entirely possible that Tory might view Scott as the Gary to his Ash. For that reason, it seems likely that unfavorable comparisons will continue to strike a nerve. Case in point, Tory Lanez partook in some comment-creepery, in which he basically peed on a tree to mark his territory. In response to some of Tory's latest live acrobatics, one fan claimed Lanez' show was inferior to Travis Scott, no debate necessary. Tory clapped back, asserting that "Travis Scott cannot fu*k with him on [any] level." Though the comment has since been deleted, it would appear that Tory's words have already grown legs. Let's not get it twisted, however; these are not fightin' words and should not be treated as such. Tory's proclamations feel more like gentle chest pounding, an assertion of dominance in a field fuelled by healthy competition. Check out Tory's comments right here. The preeminent exposure of WizKid to the rest of the World has done us nothing but good. WizKid wrapped up a busy summer season as a session vocalist by dropping the first official StarBoy singles of 2018: "Fever" and the insatiable "Master Groove." The 2nd of the two single drops, "Master Groove," was expertly released to the public right on queue, in concert with Nigeria's National Independence Day, marking the 58th anniversary of the nation's dismissal of British imperial rule (and their sphere of influence). The Nigeria we bear witness to today is far less analogous. Though WizKid represents his Yoruba heritage rather distinctly, he also invites the other ethnic divisions held within Nigeria to partake in his music. In reality, the StarBoy tag has in itself become a symbol of pan-African strength, throughout Western and Central Africa. Check out "Master Groove," a record that beckons to those who follow his lead. Quotable Lyrics: Baby girl, come make I rock your body oh yeah Today I wanna rule it baby, I wanna dan-dan dan dance My baby say she no go ever leave me till I get money So today I really wanna give her all the pounds-pounds pounds pounds Make I dance make I show her say my love e don pass money. The North American Free Trade Agreement is dead, long live the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Even though they are pretty much the same thing. President Donald Trump kept one of his key campaign promises this week and successfully negotiated a new North American free trade agreement. For that, he deserves recognition and congratulations. Too many politicians fail to deliver on their promises. Everyone in North America should also rejoice in the knowledge that the biggest change made was the brand name. Very little else about the $1.2 trillion in trade between the three countries will change, and thats the best news of all. On HoustonChronicle.com: NAFTA talks put Trumps deal-making to the test The Texas Association of Business, the American Petroleum Institute, the U.S. Council for International Business, major automakers and the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association all praised the new deal. The broad agreement reached by the US and Canada on September 30th fits with our forecast - namely, that a trilateral trade agreement would be agreed with a few changes around the margin, wrote Cailin Birch, an analyst with the Economist Intelligence Unit. Canada and Mexico are critical export markets for US producers, and regional supply chains have become deeply intertwined since NAFTA was first introduced in 1994. The minor changes, though, should make both conservatives and liberals happy. The USMCA places a 5.2 million-vehicle cap on assembled autos imported from Canada and Mexico, offering some protection for U.S. firms. But since those countries only sent 4.1 million cars to the U.S. last year, the cap will not hurt trade. The Trump administration is also touting the higher regional content requirement for vehicles. Under NAFTA, 62.5 percent of a cars content needed to come from North America to avoid tariffs. The USMCA raises that to 75 percent, presumably to encourage more U.S.-made components. Auto manufacturers can easily hit that mark. Labor costs in China and other Asian countries are on the rise, and U.S. manufacturers employing automation can match overseas prices. U.S. labor groups ought to be thrilled that employees earning at least $16 an hour will need to do at least 30 percent of the work on every vehicle by 2020. In 2023, that will go up to 40 percent. Mexico must also allow union organizing. However, the tariff on vehicles that dont meet these requirements will only total 2.5 percent. That means if meeting these standards will add more than 2.5 percent to the cost of a vehicle, there is no reason to bother. And many manufacturers wont. On HoustonChronicle.com: Trump tariffs do little more than hurt Americas reputation U.S. environmentalists should also applaud Trump for convincing Mexico to accept stricter pollution controls at factories. Stateside factories have long complained that U.S. regulations put them at a disadvantage. Canada also compromised by giving U.S. dairy farmers increased market access. While the Trump administration failed to force our northern neighbor to open the milk trade, that was never a reasonable expectation. U.S. poultry farmers, though, will see far greater access to the Canadian market over the next four years. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is already taking political heat. The most significant difference between NAFTA and the USMCA, though, is not a revision but an addition. E-commerce existed only in peoples imaginations when the deal was reached in 1994, so negotiators drafted an entirely new chapter on intellectual property. Updating NAFTA without ruining it is a major achievement. But NAFTA opponents will likely be disappointed when USMCA brings little change to peoples lives. The new agreement will not bring back old jobs. Modern manufacturing is highly automated, and new factories require fewer people with programming and technology skills. The pre-1990 machine shops are not going to reopen, and rather than pay higher wages, companies will use more robots. Perhaps Americans finally will understand that automation destroyed far more jobs than any trade agreement. On HoustonChronicle.com: Mexico offers opportunity, if we don't mess up NAFTA To the extent the USMCA generates higher costs, brings jobs back to the U.S., or triggers pay raises in Mexico, companies will pass those along to consumers. Automakers will either raise prices or take cheaper, Mexican-made cars that dont meet the content requirements off the U.S. market. For international businesses, though, such little change is a big relief. NAFTA was a good deal for most Americans, bringing down prices and making more goods available. On balance, most economists agree the treaty created slightly more jobs than it destroyed. Everyone was worried we might lose those gains. If Trumps plan is to renegotiate trade agreements by merely changing their names, updating a few rules and keeping the rest the same, thats an approach most Americans should support. Chris Tomlinson writes commentary about business and economics. chris.tomlinson@chron.com twitter.com/cltomlinson Maysarah Mikail, a field engineer for the Houston oilfield services company Halliburton, spent the summer in the Permian Basin, working 12-hour days in temperatures of up to 120 degrees. But it wasnt just the searing West Texas heat that made her uncomfortable in her heavy, flame-retardant coveralls. The coveralls, designed for men, just didnt fit right, no matter how Mikail tried to adjust, whether rolling the sleeves up to elbow or washing the coveralls repeatedly in the hope they would shrink. As she went about her job supervising a team of three engineers, she worried about loose clothing getting caught in machinery, such as oil pumps, or on handrails as she climbed ladders. Theres a lot of safety concerns that may be out there, Mikail said. I need to eliminate as many distractions as possible so I can stay focused on the job. Now Playing: Maysarah Mikail, a Halliburton senior technical professional, talks about the gender-specific coveralls at Halliburton on Friday, Aug. 17, 2018, in Houston. Video: Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle Mikail doesnt have to worry about clothing distractions anymore as Halliburton has introduced coveralls designed and made specifically for women. Working with a West Texas manufacturer and the apparel design department of Texas Tech University, Halliburton has tackled a problem that has bedeviled women since the days of Rosie the Riveter, when women flocked to factories during World War II and had to make do with ill-fitting coveralls made for men. Some 75 years later, womens workwear is still largely mens clothing shrunk to womens sizes, ignoring the differences in the bodies of the two sexes, said Tyneal Buckner, chief customer officer of Halliburtons manufacturing partner, RPS Solutions of Wolforth. As Halliburton and other companies begin to refashion coveralls for the women in their workforce, its part of an increasing recognition that energy companies need to do more to recruit and retain women in an industry that remains dominated by men. In the United States, women account for only about 13 percent of workers in oil exploration and production, down from about 17.5 percent a decade ago, and 14 percent in energy services, up slightly from 13 percent in 2008, according to the U.S. Labor Department. Internationally, women account for as little as 10 percent of the technical positions and jobs in the field that typically lead to roles as top executives, according to a 2017 study by the Boston Consulting Group, a management consulting firm, and World Petroleum Council, an industry group based in London. Sabrina Fang, a spokeswoman for the American Petroleum Institute, a trade group, said that diversifying the workforce has become a key priority for the industry, which has issued studies and emphasized the need to bring more women into the workforce at industry events. The industry expects women to fill at least 290,000 job openings out of a projected total of 1.9 million through 2035, and more than half of those jobs would be management and technical positions. On HoustonChronicle.com: Energy companies are forgetting the lessons of the great crew change Halliburtons trademarked red coveralls have long been part of the companys identity, worn with pride by the thousands of employees who work in oilfields around the world. For women, however, that pride was tempered by bulky collars, baggy sleeves and pant legs that were too long. On a visit to the Permian Basin last year, Halliburton CEO Jeff Miller learned of the coverall issues while talking with employees. Miller turned to senior human resources manager Sharla Watkins, charging her with finding a coverall more suitable for the 7,000 women who work for Halliburton at drilling and fracking sites around the world. Starting from scratch Watkins began by putting together a focus group of about 10 women who work in oil fields, listening to their likes and dislikes, and pleas for more precise sizing. With that information, she began seeking manufacturers willing to come up with a design specifically for women rather than just tweaking mens coveralls and eventually hired RPS Solutions. RPS then partnered with Texas Tech to help remake coveralls in the image of women. The mens size does not really apply to the womens size, said Su Jeong Hwang Shin, director of Texas Techs apparel design and manufacturing program. The reason is a womans body has a certain curvature, proportions made in a womans body shape and proportions are so different. Shin began by using a 3-D body scanner to take detailed measurements of Halliburtons female employees. Designing the coveralls, she explained, required a more comprehensive analysis of the wearers body because they use a non-stretch, flame-retardant woven fabric with less flexibility. One of the most significant alterations is an adjustable waistline resting mid-torso. It allows the wearer to cinch the waistband to her preferred fit, a feature designed by Jessica Ozoude, a recent Texas Tech graduate. The Texas Tech design did away with the traditional collar and its pointy leaves and replaced it with a rounded Mandarin collar, similar to that of a blouse. The four front pockets on the basic coveralls were raised to make it easier for women to reach, and two back pockets were added. That change was welcomed by Mikail, who uses the pockets to store gloves, two-way radios, calculators, notebooks, pens, tally books, tools, water bottles and, occasionally, pieces of equipment. I am actually very excited that they have not as deep a pocket, Mikail said. Its easier to pull out whatever I need to pull out. As the design took shape, the manufacturer and Texas Tech hosted focus groups in Houston, Lubbock and Brownsville, surveying approximately 150 women. All told, they came up with at least six prototypes before settling on the final design. The process took about 14 months. On HoustonChronicle.com: Breaking the glass ceiling is still not enough Women who work in the field in the United States now have the choice of receiving four coveralls available in five sizes. The employee name is stitched in script on an upper-right chest patch, as well as an American flag patch on the left arm and Halliburton emblazoned on the back. Katie Mehnert, founder and CEO of the Pink Petro advocacy group for female energy industry professionals, said Halliburtons new coveralls show energy companies are listening to the women and taking steps to keep them as competition for workers heightens in both the industry and broader economy. Oil and gas companies are not only competing with each other, but also with companies in technology, financial services and health care. The industry is stepping up its efforts (to recruit women) significantly, as the war for talent has become real tight across all industries, Mehnert said. It is another game changer and one companies should take very seriously. Dressed for success As a result, new companies specializing in womens workwear are springing up. SeeHerWork launched Sept. 18 in Houston to outfit tradeswomen with personal protective equipment it designs. It principally caters to construction workers, but will soon debut fire-resistant coveralls to go along with safety vests designed for womens chest and waist proportions bras made of polyester that protect from flying debris and embers, said founder Jane Henry, a management consultant for energy companies. Jaime Glas, a former petroleum engineer for Chevron, started her own line of womens oil field workwear last year. HauteWorks coveralls come in three different styles designed by Glas and are available in 14 different colors. Better fitting coveralls, Glas said, not only make women safer and more comfortable, but also more confident. And that makes them more effective. People do better at work when they feel better about themselves, Glas said. No one feels good having a day at work when theyre dressed like a slob. Just ask Mikail. Whenever I reach out and talk and shake someones hand, (the sleeve) doesnt fall down, she said. It looks very professional. I love it. jose.gonzalez@chron.com twitter.com/jrgzztx 2 1 of 2 Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images Show More Show Less 2 of 2 Evan Vucci, STF / Associated Press Show More Show Less President Donald Trump said the king of Saudi Arabia may not last two weeks without U.S. support, escalating pressure on one of his closest Arab allies to curb rising oil prices and pay for military protection. How about our military deals where we protect rich nations that we dont get reimbursed? Trump told a campaign rally in the U.S. state of Mississippi on Tuesday night. I love the king, King Salman, but I said, King, were protecting you. You might not be there for two weeks without us. You have to pay for your military, you have to pay." Shortly before Rebecca Shepherd closed on a new house with her fiance this August, she came across a Facebook memory on her phone. Exactly one year earlier, she had posted about leaving her home during Hurricane Harvey. The intervening year was spent dealing with the storms aftermath, which forced them to dip into their wedding fund and, like many others, find a new rental as the increased demand drove prices to new highs. As that lease came to an end, they purchased a new home one that had never flooded. People say, Oh what a difference a year makes, Shepherd reflected. Its so true. That difference can be seen in the local real estate market as well. After months of increases, rental prices saw a slight dip this quarter as the spike in demand caused by Harvey receded. Even adjusted for the Harvey distortion, this years August home sales were 7.6 percent higher than a year earlier. Many families across Houston are moving into more permanent accommodations as leases they scrambled to sign after losing their homes to floodwaters come to an end. Crystal Clark, the real estate agent who helped Shepherd find her new home, said shed personally seen the uptick of people searching for homes near the end of their post-Harvey leases. Theyre finally ready to move into their home instead of just an emergency rental, Clark said. A year into it, they are feeling more solid, have their feet under them and are actually ready to buy instead of renting. Those who have been able to buy new homes say it has brought a sense of closure after a year of transition. When Alysia Pacovskys family lost their home, she, her husband, and three of their children spent nine months in a two-bedroom apartment. They slept on a series of air mattresses, buying replacements whenever one quietly sprang a leak and began to diminish overnight. When the children realized they were missing school supplies, Pacovsky would go back to the second floor of the abandoned home and root through the black garbage bags that held their possessions. There was so much stress about, Can we find somewhere to go? Pacovsky said. So when they found a new home, they went out to lunch to celebrate. Everything fell into place at the exact time we needed it, with our lease ending, she said. More bittersweet was the experience of selling the home where her children had grown up, and which they had parted with in such unhappy circumstances. When Pacovsky first received the closing date, Aug. 27, she realized it was a year to the date after they had evacuated. I look back on it now, and I think, I cant believe we did this. I cant believe last year at this time, Harvey hit, she said. What a life-changing year. While some are buying homes as their leases come to an end, others are moving into more comfortable rentals. Derrick and Teresa Mercer are preparing to move into a rental home after spending the past year living in an apartment that was less than 1,000 square feet with their two children and two dogs. Derrick said living in the cramped space, which the family regarded as temporary from the day they moved in, had an impact on morale. On Saturday afternoon, the Mercers met with Marissa Bowe, the real estate agent at CB&A Realtors who had helped them find the home. A storm had rolled through that morning, triggering flood warnings along the coast. But the skies had cleared and birds had begun to sing. Im giddy like a school girl, Derrick Mercer said. Bowe handed the couple the keys, and they walked through the home imagining their new lives there: the futon could go next to the large windows, and Teresa could work on puzzles in the kitchen while Derrick cooked. For the first time in a long time, Derrick said, it felt like things were looking up. Maybe we can finally put that day and that storm past us, he said. rebecca.schuetz@chron.com twitter.com/raschuetz Houston actor Kedrick Brown is having his Hollywood moment over the next two weeks. Viewers will be able to see him in three projects, including two movies and one hit TV series. Hitting theaters and video-on-demand Friday is "Bayou Caviar," a drama about a former boxer, in which he stars opposite Richard Dreyfuss and Cuba Gooding Jr. who is also making his directorial debut with the film. On Oct. 16, he's a guest star on the second episode of the new season of The CW's hit superhero show, "Black Lightning." Up first though is Tuesday's DVD release of "Tales from the Hood 2," the Spike Lee executive-produced sequel to the 1995 horror film, "Tales from the Hood." "This is the first time I've actually ever had this many projects coming out at once," said Brown, 32, by phone. "It's kind of a media extravaganza." Brown, who has appeared in the TV movie "Surviving Compton: Dre, Suge & Michel'le" and such series as "American Crime," "Underground," "Greenleaf," and "Friday Night Lights," says these projects are proof that he didn't need to leave his hometown for presumably greener pastures in Los Angeles. "One of the things I remember, when I was starting, and people were saying, 'If you don't move to LA, it's really not going to happen for you'," said Brown, who studied theater at the University of North Texas in Denton and the University of Houston and is now the theater arts director for the newly built Audrey H. Lawson Performing Arts Magnet Middle School in southwest Houston. "That might work for some people but, I think, if they want me bad enough, they'll make sure that it happens." He concedes, though, at first he had doubts. "I honestly thought about packing up my stuff and doing like everybody else and moving out to L.A. But there was something that just stopped me in my spirit. Something just said 'No, you don't have to do that.' I recall saying, 'Well, if I don't have to do that then something is going to have to pop here because I'm looking around at the film and TV business in Texas and it ain't poppin'.' " What convinced him to stay was an opportunity to work at the Ensemble Theater in Midtown while he was in the Master of Fine Arts program at the University of Houston. "That became my theater home here in Houston and Eileen Morris, who is the artistic director over the Ensemble, took me under her wing. Eileen was like a second mother to me ... in conversations that we would have, it made me more comfortable and I remember her telling me, 'Your talents will make room for you. You just have to be patient'." Now, it seems the patience may be paying off. "I get the question, 'Are you going to move out of Houston soon?' and I tell people all the time, 'When they stop calling me, I guess I'm going to have to move'," he said. "But, for the moment, it's working out." cary.darling@chron.com Documentary filmmaker Rory Kennedy will visit Space Center Houston Thursday to screen her latest film, "Above and Beyond: NASA's Journey to Tomorrow." Kennedy's film covers NASA's biggest accomplishments, from the Moon landing nearly a half century ago to recent exploration of Mars. The Moon landing was a challenge set by Kennedy's uncle, President John F. Kennedy, in 1961: "I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the earth," he said. The sister of a Houston man accused of killing an employee at a Bellaire pizzeria in 2016 is expected to point the finger at her brother, prosecutors said Tuesday. The revelation surfaced in opening statements of the capital murder trial of Kiara Taylor, a 29-year-old accused of gunning down 19-year-old Peter Mielke during an armed robbery of Reginelli's Pizzeria on Bissonnet in Bellaire. The day before, her brother the defendant asked her to buy the gun, Assistant Harris County District Attorney Chandler Raine told jurors. He said the sister, Tarrell Taylor, called police after the shooting and said she recognized the masked man who appears on security video from the pizzeria that was publicized after the shooting. The prosecutors also said she was worried that the gun she bought would be traced back to her, implicating her in the capital murder. If she bought the gun specifically for her brother, who was a convicted felon, she could face charges. She also said her brother confessed to her. In her call to police, played outside the presence of the jurors during pretrial motions, Tarrell Taylor can be heard telling police she knew it was her brother because of the way he walked, the way he moved in the video. After seeing the video, she confronted her brother who initially denied his involvement, then admitted it, she told authorities. Mielke was shot 15 times and died almost instantly on Feb. 21, 2016, prosecutors said Tuesday. Security footage allegedly showed Kiara Taylor entering the pizza shop a few minutes before closing time, demanding money from Mielke, who did not have access to the register. Taylor is accused of shooting him multiple times and leaving. Then, surveillance footage apparently shows Taylor coming back inside Reginellis, firing additional shots at the employee, and leaving. Defense attorney Rudy Duarte, who is representing Taylor with attorney Allen Tanner, told jurors that the video is murky, that Taylors sister had motivation to lie about who the gunman is and that the forensic evidence is not conclusive. I expect that you are going to see evidence of a tragic shooting, Duarte told jurors. I anticipate youll see some murky images. The trial, in state District Judge Michael McSpaddens court, is expected to last through the week. If convicted of capital murder, Taylor automatically would be sentenced to life in prison. Brian Rogers covers Houston crime and courts. You can email him at brian.rogers@chron.com and follow him on Twitter at @brianjrogers. The race between Republican incumbent Sen. Ted Cruz and Democratic Congressman Beto ORourke has become one of the most watched contests in the nation this election season. ORourke, an El Paso congressman since 2012, has built a surprisingly strong campaign in a state that hasnt elected a Democrat to statewide office since 1994. Polls have shown a closer race than many expected at the start of the year. In the first half of 2018, ORourke managed to raise more than twice as much campaign money as Cruz, the runner-up to Trump for the 2016 GOP nomination for president. The Cruz-ORourke race has national impact as Republicans try to hold onto their slim majority in the U.S. Senate. View each candidates profile below. Study the issues, hear from the candidates and research what's on the ballot with our Voter Guide on HoustonChronicle.com. Godofredo A. Vasquez, Staff photographer / Staff photographer Beto ORourke Party: Democrat Age: 46 Hometown: El Paso, Texas Bio: Fourth-generation Texan born and raised in El Paso. Graduated from Columbia University with a degree in English and worked in New York before moving back to El Paso to start a technology company. Ran for El Paso City Council in 2005 and served two terms. Elected to U.S. Congress in 2012 and served on the House Committees for Armed Services and Veterans Affairs. Three children. Issues: Opposes the border wall and has championed a path to citizenship for DACA recipients. Opposed GOP tax cuts. Supports universal background checks and a ban or restrictions on the sale of AR-15s and other assault-style rifles. Supports the Affordable Care Act and abortion rights. Web: Beto for Texas Twitter: BetoORourke Ask a question: Beto ORourke on Facebook Finances: Raised more than $10.4 million during the first half of 2018, more than doubling the $4.6 million raised by Republican U.S. Sen Ted Cruz. Chances: September polls showed ORourke trailing behind incumbent Ted Cruz by nearly a 10-point margin, but other polls have shown a closer race. Surprise: In the early 1990s, ORourke toured the United States and Canada with his punk-rock band Foss. Quote: "We are going to be not-against anyone. We're not going to be against any party. We're not going to be organized and animated against anything. We are going to be for one another. We're going to be for the United States of America, for the great state of Texas, for the big bold ambitious things that we can only do together." Our coverage: Texas U.S. Sen. candidate Beto O'Rourke is throwing out the Democrat playbook for Texas with dozens of campaign trips to small towns in rural Texas. But will his work in far-flung Republican strongholds like Muleshoe, Archer City and Fort Davis pay off in November? Click here to read our full coverage. *** Godofredo A. Vasquez/Staff photographer Ted Cruz Party: Republican Age: 47 Hometown: Houston, Texas Bio: Father was tortured and imprisoned in Cuba and fled the United States to attend the University of Texas at Austin in 1957. Cruz earned a bachelors degree in public policy at Princeton University and went to Harvard Law School, where he won honors on the debate team. Worked as an attorney and served as an adviser on the 2000 presidential campaign of George W. Bush. Became the solicitor general of Texas after working as an associate deputy attorney general at the Department of Justice. Was an adjunct law professor at the University of Texas School of Law from 2004 to 2009. Went back into private practice before being elected to the Senate in 2012. Ran for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination. Two children. Issues: Supports the border wall and has derided as "amnesty" any plan that gives legal status or citizenship to people living in the country illegally, such as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. Leading supporter of the Republican tax cut plan. Has resisted banning assault-style rifles, raising the age for buying long guns, and expanding background checks for firearms sales. Opposes the Affordable Care Act and abortion. Web: Ted Cruz for Senate. Twitter: Ted Cruz Ask a question: Ted Cruz on Facebook. Finances: Raised $4.6 million during the first half of 2018, less than half of the $10.4 million raised by challenger Beto ORourke. Chances: September polls showed Cruz leading ORourke by nearly a 10-point margin. Surprise: Was an editor of the Harvard Law Review and founder of the Harvard Latino Law Review. Quote: Ive got a responsibility, which is to fight for every person in this state. I have worked hand-in-hand with the President on substance. We have delivered remarkable victories. The biggest tax cuts of a generation. Weve seen four million new jobs created since Trump was elected. Texans lives are better. Our coverage: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz once Donald Trump's biggest adversary now is singing Trump's praises as he tries to win re-election in the Senate. Click here to read our full coverage. Now Playing: Democratic Congressman Beto O'Rourke and Republican Senator Ted Cruz debate gun control at their first debate that SMU. Video: C-SPAN *** WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Will Hurd keeps a radar plot on his office wall from Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, charting the moments when operators misidentified the Japanese planes before they attacked, killing 2,300 American military personnel and destroying more than a dozen ships. For Hurd, R-San Antonio, a former CIA officer, the print is a reminder of the consequences of intelligence failings and a historical marker close at hand as he pursues national security issues in Congress. "Its my background, its my passion," he said. "Being able to work on the most important national security challenges of the day is what I love doing and why I ran for Congress." Gina Ortiz Jones, Hurds Democratic opponent, also knows something about national security. After a career as an Air Force intelligence officer that landed her in the Iraq War, Jones worked in the Obama administration alongside the National Security Agency and the CIA to spot security risks in foreign investments and ferret out theft of American trade secrets. "My background from the very tactical in Iraq to the very strategic, working on economic and security policies in the executive office of the president, is an unmatched national security background in this race," she said. In November, voters in the San Antonio-area 23d Congressional District will choose between two candidates with extensive security experience. The district stretches from San Antonio to the outskirts of El Paso, taking in all or part of 29 counties and including more than 800 miles of border. This is a knife fight. Rep. Huds race with Democrat Jones may be costliest in Texas The credentials of Hurd and Jones fit the territory: San Antonio is home to a main National Security Agency hub, the Air Force Cyber Command, and a burgeoning cybersecurity industry. And theres that expanse of border, a front-burner matter of security in Congress. After nearly two terms, Hurd, 41, already is a leader on cybersecurity, chairing a panel that explores hacking threats and focuses heavily on advanced technologies, especially artificial intelligence. Jones, 37, brings combat experience along with her intelligence background and what she describes as her understanding of veterans needs. There are, of course, differences in their paths to politics. Hurd: "She was an analyst and I was an operator." Jones: "As an operator, he would know that it was actually the analysts work that drove the things that he went out to collect. The questions that people like him go and answer, I wrote those." Hurd: "I took many analysts with me to give them real world experience on the ground. The difference is, collectors are the ones out on the streets, in the back alleys, living in these environments." In the end, both agreed, analysts and operators work together. Hurd: Shaped By The Menace of al-Qaida At Texas A&M University, Hurd, a sophomore computer science major, decided to expand his horizons. He invested $425 of the $450 in his checking account to take journalism classes in Mexico City. Later, he came under the sway of former Director of Central Intelligence Robert Gates, who would become Texas A&M president before returning to Washington to head the Pentagon under two administrations. But Hurds decision to apply to the CIA wouldnt become a sure thing until he heard a lecture from former CIA counterintelligence chief James Olson, who had joined the faculty at College Station, in which he talked about life as a spy. "The next day, I went to his office and said tell me more," Hurd recalled. In October 2000, driving his Toyota 4Runner from Texas to Washington to report to work at the CIA, Hurd learned that 17 sailors had died when an explosives-laden boat rammed the USS Cole, a guided-missile destroyer, off the southern coast of Yemen. The attack was attributed to al-Qaida. Hurd was still in training when he was sent to Yemen as the CIA accelerated efforts to pinpoint other terrorism threats on the Arab Peninsula. On Sept. 11, 2001, Hurd was back at CIA headquarters at Langley, Va. He had to walk part way back to Washington because of traffic and chaos in the city. At 2:30 a.m., he was ordered to return to the basement at Langley. He wasnt told why. Four hours later, Hurd learned the reason: He was being assigned to a special operations unit headed by Henry Crumpton, who became known as a key architect of the war in Afghanistan. "My CIA career literally started by dealing with al-Qaida and was influenced by them," he said. Hurd managed CIA undercover operations in Afghanistan. On Capitol Hill, he likes to say, "I was the dude in the back alleys at four in the morning." In an interview, Hurd added a few details about his work Afghanistan. "We helped remove bombs off the street that were being used to target the U.S. and international partners. We dismantled suicide vests; people were manufacturing them there. We helped out with (CIA) station operations." Hurd also briefed members of Congress who traveled to South Asia. He found the task disconcerting when some of the visitors didnt know the differences between the branches of the Muslim faith. In 2009, he left the CIA after nine and a half years and joined a cybersecurity company, intent on becoming a member of Congress. From Terrorism to Artificial Intelligence In August, at a campaign kick-off in San Antonio in August, Hurd warned family and close supporters about China. "These are serious times and we need serious people. China is a true existential threat. By 2049, China is trying to become the lone world superpower," he said. "They dont care about things like breaking into our systems and stealing our information and our intellectual property." It took until 2014 for Hurd to win his congressional seat after losing a primary bid in 2010 and then joining the security firm headed by Crumpton, a mentor of his. Focusing heavily on cybersecurity in Congress, Hurds list of accomplishments includes legislation that prescribes a new system for federal government purchase of some $80 billion annually of IT equipment. His bill aims to save money and move away from upkeep of older computer gear vulnerable to intrusions. From his post as chairman of a House Oversight subcommittee on IT, Hurd has stepped up his pace of analyzing - and often promoting advanced technologies. He has conducted as many hearings on artificial intelligence, or AI, as the rest of Congress combined. For three days running last week, Hurd devoted time to China and AI, including release of a report urging "conscious, direct, and spirited leadership from the Trump administration" to confront the China threat. "They have stolen our technology. They are sending their kids to our schools and getting them to come back and starting to build their own systems," he said in an interview. "If they get there first and they are the ones who are able to set the defacto international standard, it will mean that the civil liberties we have enshrined in our Bill of Rights will not be important in the future in international systems." Jones: From College to Combat Gina Ortiz Joness route to national security expertise began even earlier than Hurds. After graduating near the top of her class at John Jay High School in San Antonio, she won a four-year Air Force ROTC scholarship to Boston University. After earning a graduate degree in economics, she joined the Air Force and trained as an intelligence officer. Jones deployed to Iraq in 2005 as part of the 682nd Expeditionary Air Support Operations, stationed at Camp Victory, near Baghdad. She provided what she referred to as situational awareness to pilots. For instance, she would report how long it would take for aircraft to respond to enemy engagement. When asked about lessons she learned from combat, Jones recalls the allies she worked alongside from Europe and Japan. "When we see some of the things that are happening on the international stage, and unfortunately the president was just laughed at in the UN, it really does cause me to think about how some of these actions will affect peoples willingness to help us in the future," she said. Operating in South America, Africa After three years of active duty, Jones, who had attained the rank of first lieutenant, returned to San Antonio in 2006 to help care for her mother, who was battling colon cancer. For two years, she worked at Fort Sam Houston as a consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton, advising on a range of matters related to Latin America. Jones was plugged into South American political and military matters at the height of Venezuela President Hugo Chavezs power, during which time he alarmed American leaders with his efforts to export his brand of socialism across the continent. She focused on how Chavez and other leaders were making decisions, the reach of their influence and the impact on U.S. interests in the region, she said. Later in 2008, Jones had a decision go to law school or join the new U.S. Africa Command, based in Stuttgart, Germany. She chose Africa and the appeal of being on a team that set up the command. She traveled widely in Africa, carrying out intelligence assignments that included focus on the troubled country of Libya, ruled then by Muammar Gaddafi. One of her tasks was to measure response from around the world to Operation Odyssey Dawn, the code name for the 2011 attack by U.S. and European forces on the Libyan air defense system. The allies sought to enforce a no-fly zone and prevent Gaddafis regime from carrying out further violence on its own citizens and opposition groups. In Africa, Jones worked alongside local militaries, including in Mozambique, where socialism had recently been abandoned in favor of a free-market economy. She recalled a meeting in Mozambique, seated around a table with military and local leaders, dealing with health issues. "It dawned on me that Im the only woman in the room and we were talking about health care. But the main health care and home care providers in the country are women," she said. In 2012, President Barack Obama set about tackling the foreign trade imbalance that was fast becoming the political issue that would help fuel Donald Trumps rise. By executive order, Obama set up the Interagency Trade Enforcement Center, and Jones was asked to be a senior adviser examining matters such as the growing theft of American intellectual property. "I understand the importance of foreign investment. I understand how the economy works. But I also understand how all of these things fit in the context of national security," she said. Jones also worked for a year and a-half at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, leaving early in the Trump administration. That opportunity, combined with her military and intelligence experiences, suggest the approaches she would take in Congress. "I will speak specifically about the kinds of questions that we must ask before we send our men and women into harms way. But I also want to ensure that when we do work on an issue that were not just looking at it from a military perspective. How does it affect our economic security and how does this affect our overall objectives?" she said. "The way we are going to develop the partners and allies we need is through strong economic ties. But we have to do this with our values. Its always our values that carry the day." Editors note: This story has been updated to more accurately reflect the work history of Gina Ortiz Jones. AUSTIN Republican Gov. Greg Abbott touted a decline in the number of uninsured Texans as proof the state is making great progress on the issue during a debate on Friday as he seeks re-election. But while Abbott claimed progress, health care experts and studies including the study to which Abbott referred have largely attributed the decline in uninsured residents to the Affordable Care Act, which Abbott and his allies have fought. Nevertheless, the Lone Star State continues to lead the nation with the highest rate of uninsured residents. Recent census figures show 17 percent of Texans were uninsured last year. While the states uninsured rate has declined since the Affordable Care Act took effect, it ticked up for the first time last year, according to the census report. In the debate with Democratic challenger Lupe Valdez on Friday, Abbott said the state has lowered the number of uninsured adults and children by more than 20 percent since he took office. A lot of people dont know, but Texas ranks the second-best state in the nation for the reduction of child uninsured rate in the U.S., he said. So were making great progress, but theres more we can do. Texas still had more than 750,000 children who lacked health insurance as of 2016, according to a report by the State Health Access Data Assistance Center. While we are happy to celebrate the fact that our uninsured rates for working-age adults and children did improve between 2013 and 2017, that is entirely due to the Affordable Care Act, said Anne Dunkelberg, of the left-leaning Texas advocacy group Center for Public Policy Priorities. Public health advocates and Valdez argue expanding Medicaid to cover low-income adults would help close the insurance gap. Abbott opposes the move, saying such an expansion would cost the state billions of dollars a year in the future. While the federal government initially foots the entire bill for expansion, states that move to expand Medicaid eventually have to shoulder some of the costs. Texas is one of 14 states that hasnt expanded Medicaid and isnt considering it, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. An estimated one million of the roughly 4.8 million uninsured Texans would be covered by expansion, according to the Center for Public Policy Priorities. In the debate, Valdez argued Texas is leaving billions of federal dollars on the table by turning it down. The state could cover its share of the cost by eliminating tax breaks for commercial property and natural gas production, she said in a written statement. Accepting Medicaid expansion and putting over 1 million Texans on insurance is a no-brainer, she said. Abbott argued in the debate that expanding Medicaid would also leave the state vulnerable to change in Washington D.C. She wants to make a deal with a federal government that is $21 trillion in debt, he said. That government will not be able to continue to match what theyre doing right now. Robert Henneke, with the right-leaning Texas Public Policy Foundation, similarly criticized expansion, saying Medicaid already provides bad health care and low reimbursement rates to providers. That's the point of this, to provide health care for the people who need it, he said. The federal structure for Medicaid with or without expansion is already crumbling. Abbotts campaign did not answer specific questions about the Affordable Care Act, which he has in the past blamed for skyrocketing premiums. RELATED: Obamacare sign-ups have increased as deadline looms In response to a debate question about how to get more Texans insured, he pointed to a state Medicaid waiver that in part helps to cover care for the uninsured. By getting that waiver were able to craft an approach to insure and cover more people in the state of Texas, he said. Public health officials worry uncertainty around the Affordable Care Act may hurt gains in coverage. The next six-week open enrollment period begins November 1. Since coming into office, the Trump administration has cut back the ACA marketing and customer service budgets. Republicans in Congress last year repealed the requirement that individuals have health insurance coverage, known as the individual mandate, as part of the wide-ranging tax bill. RELATED: Texans play major role in passing the tax bill In Bexar County, about 7,700 fewer people enrolled for coverage last year, as compared to the year prior, said Dr. Andrea Guerrero-Guajardo, with the coalition Enroll SA. We have seen a drop over the last two years, mostly because of the inability to enforce the individual mandate and also a lack of funding that was cut from a lot of the budget related to marketing and getting the word out, she said. Allie Morris is a staff writer in Austin. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | amorris@express-news.net | Twitter: @MorrisReports Uprooted Palestinians are at the heart of the conflict in the M.E Palestinians uprooted by force of arms. Yet faced immense difficulties have survived, kept alive their history and culture, passed keys of family homes in occupied Palestine from one generation to the next. Separate stories in Sundays Chronicle about two towns located more than 200 miles apart sum up why its important for Texas political leaders to stop putting job creation above the health of the people they say will benefit from it. Nick Powell wrote about San Leon in Galveston County, where people are concerned about the impact of an $800 million anhydrous ammonia plant being built in nearby Texas City. The plant operated by Gulf Coast Ammonia LLC is expected to add 2.2 trillion gallons of industrial wastewater to what is already one of Texas most polluted bodies of water, Galveston Bay. That worries San Leon residents like Roy Lee Cannon, who expressed his fears to Powell while standing on the deck of his shrimp boat. I dont see how they can say nothings going to be affected or there will be little effect on the environmental situation for the oysters, fish, shrimp, etc., because they have no way of knowing that, Cannon said. Kenneth Teague, a recently retired ecologist for the Environmental Protection Agency, told Powell that ammonia is highly toxic to aquatic life. The Texas Commission of Environmental Quality has asked Gulf Coast Ammonia to specify how it will prevent leaks from its pipelines. Even with that information, the TCEQ should be reluctant to grant the companys request for a wastewater permit. Anhydrous ammonia, typically used to manufacture fertilizer, can be volatile if handled incorrectly. Its fumes can be suffocating, and if it gets hot it can explode. That apparently doesnt bother Texas City officials, who want to give the plant that will employ 25 to 50 full-time workers a 10-year tax abatement. An environmental danger also confronts the fewer than 200 residents of Pawnee, northwest of Beeville in Bee County, where an Arizona-based waste management company, Republic Services, wants to build a 156-acre landfill that would rise more than 170 feet into the air. Rye Druzin wrote that people in Pawnee are worried about both noxious dust blowing from the landfill and air pollution caused by an expected 50 trucks a day hauling oil and gas drilling waste to the facility. Unfortunately, odds are Pawnee residents will lose this fight. The Railroad Commission of Texas, which oversees the oil and gas industry, has already approved five new permits for oilfield landfills this year. Its nearly impossible to stop such a project, said Neil Carman, clean air program director for the Texas chapter of the Sierra Club. The best they can do is delay. Carmans pessimism is understandable in a state that too often asks the public to choose jobs over the environment. More than 200 companies employing more than 100,000 people have operations related to drilling in the Eagle Ford Shale oil field, which is near Pawnee. People in Pawnee and San Leon are supposed to ignore potential environmental dangers from a drilling waste dump or an anhydrous ammonia plant and just be happy that they can put food on the table. Bigger towns like Houston arent treated much better. Sadly, too many politicians who were elected to act in the best interest of Texans have decided that a good paycheck is better than a good checkup, and that jobs are more important than clean air or water. Changing that attitude has to begin at the top. State leaders need to recognize that Texas has too many good attributes to prostitute it before corporate entities that covet its natural resources and abundant workforce. Texans shouldnt be paying for jobs with their lives. This states fragile environment shouldnt be run over roughshod in the name of economic development. It would be nice to see a line drawn in the sand from Austin to Pawnee to San Leon to send a clear message that good health is not for sale in Texas. If you want to do business here, you must follow the rules to keep the environment clean and the public safe. Thats a message not only for all the businesses that expect the state to bow down in gratitude when offered the possibility of new jobs. Its a message for all the political leaders and bureaucrats who do bow down and expect the public to smile with gratitude. NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine recently suggested that the space agency seek corporate sponsorships to help augment the meager appropriations Congress grants it to do everything from exploring the solar system to operating the International Space Station. Ideas range from selling naming rights to spacecraft to allowing astronauts to endorse products in exchange for advertising fees. Currently, federal law prohibits any government agency or employee from engaging in this kind of advertising business. For Bridenstines idea to work, Congress would not only have to lift the prohibition where NASA is concerned but also ensure that any revenue thus generated goes directly to the space agency and not into the general federal government fund. All sorts of objections are already being heard. NASAs commercial partners are afraid that such a scheme might divert advertising money it would like to generate for their own missions. Morina Koren, writing in the Atlantic, thinks that the whole idea is just a bit tacky. Would the Doritos Space Telescope have the same cachet as naming it after a great scientist such as Hubble or Kepler? We are not even getting into the conflict of interest possibilities. Perhaps a more decorous way exists for NASA to augment its funding that is already working for another government-funded operation, that being public television. The Public Broadcasting System is partially paid for by the government through the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. PBS also gets money from member station fees and corporations, private foundations and individual donors. Member stations also can raise money through corporate and private donations. NASA could make a similar arrangement without having to plaster its spacecraft with corporate logos like a NASCAR race car or having astronauts pitch beer. Let us suppose that the United States establishes the Corporation for Public Space Exploration. The CPSE could then raise money that could be disbursed to various NASA missions to augment the funding it gets directly from government appropriations. Indeed, individual missions would also be able to raise corporate, foundation and private money as well. The money could be raised through public service announcements, internet advertising and direct solicitation. Space missions, whether they are private, run by NASA or a combination of the two, could sell exclusive documentation rights to television networks and even film studios. Private memberships for space missions would come in levels of contribution, with various benefits for each amount of money. Say, $100 might buy you a T-shirt, a plastic scale model of the spacecraft and a certificate. And $10,000 gets you a trip to the launch, where you can watch from the VIP section and a meeting with some of the mission scientists and engineers. Imagine seeing on television in the near future This mission back to the moon is courteously brought to you by NASA, Exxon-Mobil, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundations and millions of space enthusiasts like you. On the one hand, the system could not only provide a supplemental revenue stream for NASA space missions in an era when Congress might be reluctant to kick in more money. The public exploration financing system would also provide a way for people to feel that they are directly participating in missions ranging from Mars rovers to probes to the outer planets. Pride of co-sponsorship could increase public support for space exploration in general. On the other hand, the federal government, especially Congress, has to be made to realize that the extra financing scheme should not be used as an excuse to cut the appropriations that NASA gets. The sponsorship financing should be seen as a supplement, not as a replacement. Otherwise the purpose of the plan is defeated. Whittington, who writes frequently about space and politics, has published a political study of space exploration entitled Why is It So Hard to Go Back to the Moon? as well as The Moon, Mars and Beyond. He blogs at Curmudgeons Corner. The research, conducted in collaboration with YouGov, surveyed a total of 6,870 respondents across 14 markets in Asia Pacific. The gig-economy is also playing its part in business travel, as apps such as Uber and Grab, as well as Airbnb and Couch Surfing, gain momentum in the sector. Business travel is a real growth opportunity in the Asia Pacific region, but to capitalize on this, travel providers need to have a clear understanding of the needs, habits and motivations of the business traveller, added Nicolle. They also need to be ahead of the curve when it comes to technology, ensuring they can offer the technology that business travellers have adopted and habitually use. It is all about personalization and pushing the right message at the right time to the right traveller, every time. Would you like to see more bleisure-related activities? Share your thoughts in the comments. Imperial Valley News Center Purdue space historian remembers First Man as humble historic giant West Lafayette, Indiana - Purdue alumnus Neil Armstrong wasnt one to boast about his oft-quoted giant leap for mankind onto the moon as part of the Apollo 11 mission, according to a Purdue space historian. In short, I think people know very little about Neil, partly because he didnt talk about himself, said John Norberg. The fact that he so rarely talked in public about Apollo 11 made the few times he did talk about it very special and very big news stories. Norberg is available to talk about the late Armstrong, whom he first met in 1979. Norberg worked with and interviewed the Purdue alumnus for his book Wings of Their Dreams: Purdue in Flight. A chapter in Armstrongs life is coming to the big screen on October 12 with the movie First Man, an account of Armstrong and NASAs work on the Apollo 11 mission, which landed on the moon on July 20, 1969. Norberg said hes familiar with space historian James R. Hansen, who wrote the book the movie is based on. Hansen worked with Armstrong for the book, Norberg said, using hours and hours of interviews. Because of Armstrongs moon landing and his legacy, Giant Leaps is the name of Purdues Sesquicentennial campaign. The year will highlight Purdues remarkable history of giant leaps, while focusing on what giant leaps the university can take to address the worlds problems. Armstrong was warm, funny, friendly and, Norberg said, could be talkative when relaxed. He was a complex man for sure, but a very nice one, he said. And he loved Purdue. Norberg said the NASA astronaut was strongly focused on the landing on the moons surface, making the opportunity to step out onto the surface just icing on the cake for him. Norberg is the author of seven books, including Spacewalker: My Journey in Space and Faith as NASAs Record-Setting Frequent Flyer, which details the story of Purdue alumnus and astronaut Jerry Ross. His eighth, Every True: 150 Years of Giant Leaps at Purdue University will be out in the spring. Ten-Year Memorandum of Understanding Between the United States and Israel Washington, DC - Today, as we enter the new fiscal year, the ten-year period of the $38 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the United States and Israel in 2016 begins. Under the terms of the MOU, the United States will set funding for Israel at levels of $3.3 billion in Foreign Military Financing and $500 million for cooperative programs for missile defense over each of the next ten years, a significant increase enabling Israel to acquire additional advanced military capabilities from the United States that will, over time, enhance Israels security and strengthen our bilateral relationship. Our implementation of this historic MOU reflects the enduring and unshakable commitment of the President, this Administration, and the American people to Israel's security. The MOU was negotiated under the previous Administration, reflecting the bi-partisan nature of this commitment. Israel is a valuable and capable ally to the United States that today faces dangerously escalating regional threats, first and foremost from the Iranian regime's sponsorship of terrorist groups seeking to attack not only Israel but also American interests. Israel is also threatened by the reckless proliferation of destabilizing weapons systems into the region that increase the possibility of an escalated conflict in an already dangerous and volatile theater. The United States unconditionally affirms Israel's right to self-defense, and this MOU is a concrete demonstration of our commitment to Israel's capacity to defend itself with a qualitative military edge over all potential regional adversaries. Earthquake and Tsunami in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia Washington, DC - The United States conveys its condolences and support to all of those in Indonesia affected by the earthquake and tsunami that struck Central Sulawesi on September 28. U.S. Mission Indonesia is closely monitoring the situation, and has not received reports of U.S. citizens affected. The United States and Indonesia are Strategic Partners and friends, and we stand ready to assist in the relief effort. Nigeria National Day Washington, DC - Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo: "I would like to convey warm wishes to the government and people of Nigeria on the 58th anniversary of your independence. "Nigeria remains a key partner and friend of the United States. Through its strengthening democracy, its dynamic economy, and the great entrepreneurial spirit of its people, Nigeria is a leader in the region and beyond. We count on Nigeria to continue its leadership through free, fair, transparent, and peaceful elections in 2019. "The United States offers our continuous support to Nigeria in its efforts to expand trade and investment, counter terrorism, ensure regional stability, and tackle corruption. "As you celebrate the anniversary of your independence, please know that the people of the United States celebrate with you." Secretary of State Pompeo's Meeting With Australia Foreign Minister Marise Payne Washington, DC - Secretary Michael R. Pompeo met with Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne Monday. The two praised the vibrancy of the bilateral relationship, including our joint efforts to promote a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. The ministers coordinated on our top foreign policy goals, particularly achieving a fully denuclearized North Korea. The two exchanged information on events and engagements around the just-completed UN General Assembly Leaders Week and on supporting the upcoming East Asia Summit in Singapore and the APEC Leaders Summit in Papua New Guinea. As part of our joint commitment to the Pacific, the ministers discussed opportunities to align our efforts on regional infrastructure needs. The two pledged to continue robust cooperation based on our mutual interests, principles, and values. Geoffrey does not deserve to die. That's why reaction to the news that Toys "R" Us has basically risen from the dead (or at least from bankruptcy court) is so positive. This might be the first time in history that public opinion is firmly on the side of a bunch of hedge funds. But when it comes to Toys "R" Us, all bets off. Here are the details, plus the reason why entrepreneurs, and not just kids, should be happy about this news. A new Toys "R" Us According to documents filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court (pdf), the debtors to whom Toys "R" Us owed money have decided to cancel an expected auction of the company's intellectual property, and hold onto the assets themselves. And they say they contemplate "a new, operating Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us branding company that maintains existing global license agreements and can invest in and create new, domestic, retail operating businesses under the Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us names." In other words, a new Toys "R" Us, just a few months after the beloved chain closed all of its stores in the United States. According to The Wall Street Journal, the debtors are a group of hedge funds, referred to somewhat comically as "Debtor Geoffrey" in the court case. Moreover, the disappearance of the brand in June "left an $11 billion hole in the toy industry," along with 33,000 people out of work, according to the Journal. By the way, those workers have been fighting for severance apparently ever since Toys "R" Us shut down. They're now going to share in a $20 million fund--but, honestly, that only works out to about $600 each. Requiem for a founder The apparently premature demise of Toys "R" Us came only a few months after the death of its 94-year-old founder, Charles Lazarus. And if you're celebrating the return of Toys "R" Us, it's worth remembering him, too. Lazarus was an entrepreneur before we really celebrated the idea in this country. He built the Toys "R" Us chain himself, originally launching a small furniture store in Washington after he came home from serving in military intelligence in World War II. He focused on kids, because that's what shifting demographics suggested would be a booming market, and moved from furniture to toys. He explained that he realized families who had more than one child kept buying toys, even after their cribs and high chairs became hand-me-downs. Ultimately, he sold Toys "R" Us to a bigger company called Interstate Department Stores. But in a cool twist, he stuck around and ultimately became CEO of Interstate Department Stores, leading the company through its initial public offering in 1978. And then he changed the company's name back to Toys "R" Us. When he retired in 1994, there were more toys being sold at Toys "R" Us than anywhere else. And another entire generation of kids grew up associating a trip to the big toy store with some truly happy memories. Absurdly Driven looks at the world of business with a skeptical eye and a firmly rooted tongue in cheek. It's become a little tired, hasn't it? The speculation about where Amazon would put its second headquarters, known in the nation's hipster bars and falafel houses as HQ2, was fun for a while. The betting became raucous. The competing cities rose and fell like bitcoin prices. Now, Bert Sperling, a renowned expert whom the New York Times once said "picks the best places," has declared that he knows where Jeff Bezos will place his latest monument to commerce. Well, when I say he knows, Sperling's words are "we can now confidently say." We being his Best Places website. If he's right, there'll be protests in the streets. And in the hills and valleys. For Sperling confidently says that the location will be a particular part of Loudoun County, Virginia. Should you have never ventured there, it's 35 miles west of Washington D.C. It'll be shortly served by the new Silver Line of the Washington Metro. Oh, but come on, Bezos isn't going to toss a vast corporate city in the middle of some fields, is he? Sperling confidently says that "the new Amazon HQ2 will be [in] the unincorporated community of Oatlands, Virginia." The renowned expert says -- confidently -- that this decision isn't about business. Amazon can stick its headquarters anywhere it likes. Instead, it needs to be somewhere politically friendly and "near, but not in a mega city." Sperling confidently asserts: Amazon does not want their HQ2 to dominate a region. Consider this. Those 50,000 new employees Amazon has said will be working at HQ2 will bring an additional 120,000 to 140,000 residents to the area in the form of family members, civil workers, and support businesses such as retail, healthcare, and services. Sperling explains that a new Amazon HQ will mean an additional 200,000 residents. That's like dumping Salt Lake City somewhere else. You wouldn't want to do that to a big city, would you? Sperling offers: With the major influx of population and infrastructure, Amazon will need to avoid the downtown core and essentially create their own city on the outskirts of a major metropolitan area. There is no need to compete for expensive and crowded downtown space. Amazon can create their own bold vision starting with a blank canvas. I do hope this bold vision looks a little better than all of Amazon's ugly physical products. Actually, talking of those ugly things, Sperling paints a picture of HQ2 as Bezos's own technological Truman Show: With a clean slate, architects and planners can create new communities and neighborhoods which incorporate smart homes and streets which are friendly to alternative transportation. With new homes comes the opportunity to use them as test beds for new Amazon products and services such as drones and autonomous vehicles, cashier-free stores, and in-home package delivery.? How long before it's called Amazonville? How long before someone markets the location as Virginia Is For Drones? Please spare a thought for the happy residents of rural Loudoun County, near the Maryland border. The biggest city around there is Leesburg, with 53,000 people. How will they feel about 200,000 hipsters coming to town? It'll be like a Zombie Invasion. Indeed, the locals are already recoiling at the very thought. Naturally, I contacted Amazon for swift confirmation of this confident news. First, I received an email encouraging me to buy another book. Then, a company spokesman told me: Amazon made a blockbuster move yesterday when it announced it is increasing its minimum wage to $15 per hour for all full-time, part-time, temporary, and seasonal employees across the U.S. (The increase should benefit over 350,000 workers this year alone.) Best of all, "Amazonians" won't have to wait long for the salary bump: It goes into effect on November 1. But it was the press release detailing Amazon's big reveal that really drew my attention--because it included an interesting and insightful statement by Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos about why the company made the change: "We listened to our critics, thought hard about what we wanted to do, and decided we want to lead." There's a lot to be learned from that simple sentence. But I'd like to narrow in on just five words: We listened to our critics. Amazon has had no shortage of such critics, many of whom have chastised Bezos for what they consider unfair pay and treatment of entry-level workers. And while Bezos has long defended Amazon's reputation as an employer, yesterday's announcement revealed evidence of a remarkable and invaluable quality: The ability to learn from negative feedback. We've seen this before This isn't the first time we've seen Bezos's ability to learn from criticism. Back in 2015, the New York Times published a viral story portraying behemoth Amazon as a brutal employer that put innovation and company performance above the well-being of its people. On the same weekend the article was published, Bezos sent out a memo to Amazon employees. In it, he encouraged them to give the New York Times article "a careful read." Bezos then directed employees to report any incidents similar to those in the story. He even invited employees to reach out to him directly through email. "Even if it's rare or isolated, our tolerance for any such lack of empathy needs to be zero," wrote Bezos in an internal memo. A year later, the company announced significant changes. In both this instance and Amazon's recent wage increase, it appears Bezos used negative feedback as a catalyst--to reevaluate the situation at his company and to consider if changes were needed. How criticism can help you grow In my new book, EQ Applied: The Real-World Guide to Emotional Intelligence, I compare the feedback you receive to a freshly mined diamond. Although such a rock is unattractive to the naked eye, its value becomes obvious after the detailed process of cutting and polishing. Criticism is like that unpolished diamond: To the recipient, it's ugly. You're trying your best, and along comes someone to tell you what you're doing wrong. In most cases, you'll interpret that criticism as an attack--leading you to defend yourself or simply close your mind. But here's the thing: We're not perfect. Our perspective is limited, and we all have blind spots. That's why we need negative feedback if we're going to grow. Since most criticism is rooted in truth, it usually provides some insight you can use to improve. And even if the feedback is completely off base, it's still valuable--because it helps you understand the perspective of others. Much like a diamond cutter can take a raw, unpolished diamond and turn it into something beautiful, you can learn to extract the benefits of criticism and turn it into a learning experience. So, what if you trained yourself to see criticism differently? Instead of viewing it as an attack, what if you saw it as a gift? When you treat negative feedback as a learning opportunity, you can do the following: confirm the validity of your ideas and prepare yourself for similar criticism in the future; better craft your message in a way that reaches those with varying perspectives; better identify your target audience; and change and adapt when appropriate. Of course, I'm not excusing thoughtless criticism. If you need to deliver negative feedback, it's important to learn how to do so constructively. But if you're the recipient of criticism, you don't have that luxury. Turn that feedback around by asking yourself: Putting my personal feelings aside, what can I learn from this person's perspective? a How can I use this feedback to help me improve? It takes emotional intelligence to ask and answer those questions. But doing so can turn you from a know-it-all, to a learn-it-all. Thom Yorke has released a new track from his score for Luca Guadagninos film Suspiria. The Radiohead frontman composed 25 original works specifically for the directors remake of the Dario Argentos 1977 horror classic, in an album comprised of instrumental score work, interludes and more traditional song structures featuring Yorkes vocals. The new song, titled Has Ended, features a more traditional song structure, although its sprawling, shivery tones are classic Yorke, with whistles of Italian organ-like synths, menacing clatters on the drum (performed by Yorkes son, Noah), and Yorkes own ghostly mumbles. Listen to the new release, below: His compositions were apparently inspired by the films Berlin 1977 setting, with melodies that convey the melancholy, suspense and sheer terror running through the album. It is the first time Yorke has scored a full feature film. The album also features the London Contemporary Orchestra and Choir, Noah Yorke on drums on Volk and Has Ended, and Pasha Mansurov on solo flute on Suspirium. The Suspiria soundtrack will be released on 26 October via XL Recordings. Though hes best known for his sun-dappled romance of last year, Call Me By Your Name, Guadagnino hasnt held back when it comes to his first foray into horror. The central premise stays quite close to the original. A hopeful young American dancer (Dakota Johnson), travels to Germany to learn ballet at a prestigious local school, only to slowly uncover a dark history of witchcraft and death. The Italian directors interpretation looks set to include the same gruesome and disturbing horror elements that made the original a cult classic; a key scene recently screened at Las Vegas CinemaCon reportedly left viewers aghast, as Johnsons Susie Bannon is shown practising ballet, only for another woman in another room, seemingly controlled by her movements, to be slowly torn apart. The best films of 2018 (so far) Show all 17 1 /17 The best films of 2018 (so far) The best films of 2018 (so far) The Guardians From its slow-burning beginning, The Guardians develops into an epic melodrama. Its a wartime story in which, for a change, the men are relegated to supporting roles. It follows in a tradition of French rural family sagas like Jean De Florette or Manon Des Sources. The landscapes and the changing seasons play as much of a part in the story as the main characters. The best films of 2018 (so far) Dark River Dark River offers little such consolation. It has some lyrical and delicate moments but the mood is generally overwhelmingly bleak and lugubrious. Incest and abuse dont leave much space for any comic interludes. This is a powerful film with a grinding intensity about it. Light relief it isnt but Dark River still has quite an impact. Alamy The best films of 2018 (so far) Zama Late on in Argentinean director Lucrecia Martels startling, highly original new feature, Zama, a character who has just had both his arms cut off, is advised to shove your stumps in the sand if you dont bleed out, youll survive. Its a grisly, darkly humorous moment in a film that continually surprises us with both its brutality and its lyricism. The Match Factory The best films of 2018 (so far) The Breadwinner The most dispiriting aspect of this otherwise enrapturing Oscar-nominated animated feature is that its storyline still seems so current. The film depicts an Afghan society in which women dont have a face. It is set during the Taliban rule, which lasted from the mid-1990s until late 2001, but this doesnt feel like a period piece. Seventeen years after the Taliban were ousted from power in Afghanistan following the US invasion, the plight of women in the country appears hardly to have improved. GKIDS The best films of 2018 (so far) BlacKkKlansman Spike Lees work sometimes risks sensory overload. He fires off so many different ideas and storytelling styles that audiences can become bamboozled by his scattergun approach. BlacKkKlansman is one of his very best films because the digressions are as entertaining as ever but dont get in the way of the main story. AP The best films of 2018 (so far) Early Man Much of the pleasure in Aardman films has always lain in their gently ironic, Alan Bennett-like humour. They take very exotic characters and subject matter but then deal with them in a matter-of-fact fashion. They make a virtue out of their own relative modesty. Early Man isnt the flashiest animated feature that youll see this year but it is certainly the most likeable. The best films of 2018 (so far) Isle of Dogs Like all of Wes Andersons work, Isle Of Dogs is very stylised, very offbeat and characterised by its extremely dry and often ironic humour. This Japanese-set stop-motion fable is also gorgeous to look at packed full of intricate visual detail. It deals with some weighty themes (ethnic cleansing, fascism and corruption) but does so in an idiosyncratic fashion. The best films of 2018 (so far) Three Billboards Outside of Ebbing, Missouri Writer-director Martin McDonagh has a host of award-winning plays behind him but his movies havent always lived up to his stage work. This one certainly does. It shares some of the dark and nihilistic humour found in McDonaghs previous film, Seven Psychopaths. The best films of 2018 (so far) A Quiet Place In an era of wearisome poltergeist movies, haunted house stories and torture porn, A Quiet Place is a refreshingly pared-down and very original affair. Director John Krasinski relies on editing, sound effects and off-screen action to crank up the tension. We do see the creatures from time to time, sometimes even in extreme closeup. They are very grotesque, bigger versions of the polyp-like succubus which exploded out of John Hurts stomach in Alien. However, the most terrifying moments here come when the humans are waiting for them to appear, desperately hoping that they wont. Paramount Pictures The best films of 2018 (so far) Lady Bird Lady Bird is one of the best American coming-of-age films since Barry Levinsons Diner. Written and directed by Greta Gerwig, it offers an utterly winning mix of humour, poignancy and sharp-eyed social observation. Gerwig approaches her subject matter with the same tenderness and affectionate irony with which the adolescent Lady Bird regards Sacramento. Gerwig also shows Lady Birds heroism as the young heroine strives against the odds to become the very best version of herself she can be. A24 The best films of 2018 (so far) Phantom Thread If Phantom Thread is indeed Daniel Day-Lewiss final film as an actor, he is going out on a wondrously bizarre note. This must be the oddest film in his career, one in which he gives a typically commanding but very idiosyncratic performance. Almost everything here is jarring but generally in a very positive way. The best films of 2018 (so far) First Reformed It is not so long ago that Paul Schrader seemed to be giving up on cinema. The American writer-director (whose credits include Taxi Driver, American Gigolo and Affliction) had taken to making movies like the sour Hollywood satire The Canyons with Lindsay Lohan and the cartoonishly violent Dog Eat Dog, shot cheaply, aimed at a VOD audience. The former had a montage of closed-down movie theatres. In interviews, Schrader struck a gloomy note about the future of the industry. This is why First Reformed is so refreshing. This is not just Schraders best film in a very long while. It is also a re-affirmation of the directors belief in the medium. Rex The best films of 2018 (so far) The Happy Prince Oscar Wilde goes to ruin in Rupert Everetts debut feature as director. Everett also wrote and stars in the film, giving a grandstanding performance as the Irish writer at the end of his life, after his release from prison, where he has been doing hard labour for gross indecency. This is a moving and surprising biopic that squeezes out every last drop of pathos from its subject matter. BBC Films The best films of 2018 (so far) Black Panther Black Panther is not only one of the most entertaining recent superhero films but has an intelligence and a political dimension that such inchoate offerings as Suicide Squad and Justice League completely lacked. It is an action movie which touches on Pan-Africanism and which owes as much to Malcolm X as it does to Batman or Captain America. Marvel Studios/Disney The best films of 2018 (so far) Sicilian Ghost Story Sicilian Ghost Story is a genre-bending affair that combines elements of teen romance, gothic psycho-drama and political thriller. It is loosely based on a true story of a boy called Giuseppe Di Matteo whose father, an ex-member of the Sicilian Mafia, turned grass against his erstwhile associates. The Mafia responded by kidnapping Giuseppe and keeping him in captivity for nearly 800 days. Altitude The best films of 2018 (so far) First Man First Man is all about understated heroism. Its affecting precisely because Armstrong (played with quiet intensity by Ryan Gosling) doesnt feel the continual need to boast about his mission. The film is a tearjerker but a very subtle one. AP The best films of 2018 (so far) Dogman Dogman is one of the best Italian films of recent times, a modern day neo realist fable that bears comparison with the great work of Fellini, Rossellini, De Sica et al. Its main character, the dog groomer Marcello (Marcello Fonte), is a wonderful creation: loveable, vulnerable, seedy and comic all at the same time. Curzon Artificial Eye Reactions involved the words very gruesome, some of the most disturbing body horror, and absolutely brutal. Tilda Swinton, Chloe Grace Moretz, Mia Goth, and Jessica Harper star of the original film also feature. Suspiria will be released in the US by Amazon Studios on 2 November. Performance artist Bryony Kimmings has become known for boldly going where few others would with her provocative, autobiographical social-experiment-cum-theatre shows. From celebrity culture to feminism, depression to cancer, Kimmings fearlessly mines her own experiences for creative ways to tackle our most taboo topics, prompting discussion, outrage, and entertaining in equal measure. She went through her own sexual history to trace an STI to its source with 2010s Sex Idiot, 2011s 7 Day Drunk saw her put herself in a constant state of intoxication for a week to see how it affected her creativity, while with 2015s Credible, Likeable, Superstar Model she created an alternative pop star with the help of her nine-year-old niece. A Pacifists Guide to the War on Cancer was, of all things, a musical, satirising how we deal with and talk about the disease. Its a formula that works; her shows have taken her around the world and led her to set up her own business alongside delivering workshops, speaking on panels and appearing on TV. However in 2015, just as she was beginning to build her empire, Kimmings almost lost her son, lost her partner, and as a result, also almost lost her mind. When approached by Battersea Arts Centre with a commission for its Phoenix season to help relaunch the Grand Hall, which burnt down in 2015, Kimmings felt a kind of serendipity. I already had in my mind a show that was called Im a Phoenix, Bitch. I also love the venue. I remember it burning down the day I found out I was pregnant. It was ringing so many synergy points so loudly so it was like, I definitely have to do it in that building. Her first solo performance in nearly a decade, the multi-media show is very simply and plainly a story about postnatal depression. But also a story of what women do in the face of trauma, Kimmings tells me over the phone on a short break from rehearsals. I think its important to talk about postnatal mental health, because it is just so difficult a subject, but also the story of a woman who manages to pull herself out of tragedy is needed. I think thats politically a point I wanted to make just by the show existing. As a kind of parallel to the Grand Hall re-emerging from the ashes, Kimmings wanted to present a fresh tale of a woman coming back from the brink on her own steam: Its not Lady Macbeth, Kimmings explains. I dont go mad and lose my mind and someone comes and rescues me. Its the opposite of that really. If you see postnatal depression played out in dramas, the woman ends up killing her kid or gets sectioned. Actually postnatal mental health is part and parcel of a huge change in your life. I wanted to talk about it without making it overly dramatic. To have the conversation about it and it be acceptable. But mostly also just to hear a woman talking about her experience and it not be reductive. Its an unabashed feminist approach that seeks to overturn prevailing narratives she sees as fundamentally damaging to our cultural and political health: If we keep telling the stories of these dudes that rescue everybody and sort everything out, thats when we get people like Donald Trump in power, Kimmings asserts. Because we trust too much that one hero solves all problems when we should be looking at community. Kimmings past work was provocative and raw (Bryony Kimmings Ltd) After recently reading Clarissa Pinkola Estes Women Who Run with the Wolves on the hidden power of the female psyche, she wonders: Imagine if we were living in a matriarchy? That would be amazing. While the autobiographical has formed a signature style for the artist, has this piece the 37-year-olds most personal yet been a challenge or rather, provided a kind of catharsis? Its kind of a long process always, she explains. It begins with therapy and processing events and writing things that no one is ever going to see. Only when this stage is over, does Kimmings contemplate creating a show. I dont really like watching people noodling out their problems on stage. I think its quite self-indulgent. For me, it needs to be one step removed, a performed version of what happened. Its like, ok, how can this become therapeutic for other people? Then its not really about me anymore, its about the audience. When I mention some of the weird and wonderful experiments that first brought her to the publics attention, from candidly exposing her sexual history to being drunk on vodka for seven days straight, she sounds reflective: I forget that its weird. I was writing a synopsis to epitomise who I was before all this awful stuff happened to me and it was like f***ing hell. Ive done all this stuff! I did 350 shows putting pubic hairs on my face in front of people around the world. After the incidents of 2015, she now feels a disconnect from this past: I dont remember being that confident. I think thats part of suffering a trauma and having had to re-examine everything you ever thought about yourself. That Bryony was super daring. I dont know what this Bryony is like I think shes a bit more reserved. This piece therefore denotes a shift the artist herself recognises has taken place in her own life and in the way she performs, though not necessarily a negative one: Before, I might create things just for shock value or use real slapstick comedy to highlight something really political. With this one I feel like I crafted something that just encapsulates what it felt like and that's been really nice. Im not showing off, Im not dancing and singing well, except at certain points it feels really truthful to the experience. And thats a real coup in terms of having confidence in your skills as theatre maker rather than, quick, put on a pubic moustache so everyone laughs. But she hopes to have held onto her raw and distinctive style despite now having a much bigger production budget at her fingertips. I hope that it keeps the sort of rough, really personable flavour that my early work has. It hopefully oscillates between the first layer of having a chat in my living room to my heads going to f***ing blow off from the scale of the theatre that Im seeing. I hope its a collision of all the stuff I learnt from making a musical and then my spit and sawdust from cutting my teeth at the Bethnal Green Working Mens Club. Now a single mother, theres also no denying that her priorities have necessarily changed: I wanted world domination. I used to just pack a suitcase and f*** off where I wanted to. But now Im a single mum. I just dont think men have to deal with that as much. They can still remain the auteur, the artist touring around the world whereas I have to think about making sure we can survive as a little family. Thats not to say she doesnt hold ambition, only she perhaps plans less decisively for an uncertain future. She still wants to make documentaries for TV and has co-written a screenplay with Emma Thompson for Universal a London-set romance Last Christmas to be directed by Paul Feig of Bridesmaids fame. As for how she sees our cultural future, she expresses hope, particularly when speaking and working with the young generation, who are so much smarter they demand more, they dont stand for any s*** in terms of gender. I feel confident that the mantle is being passed to people who are so much more aware of stuff we were scrabbling around trying to figure out for a long time. However, she also warns against complacency: I see people making lots of effort but the gatekeepers are still the same. Im not going to let my guard down or close my eyes for very long. Because you know, as the great white male dies hes going to try and f*** everyone else up. He wont go quietly, we know that. Bryony Kimmings performs Im a Phoenix, Bitch from 3 to 20 October at Battersea Arts Centre You could hardly hear a pin drop earlier this yearn 20 January as 22-year-old Amanda Gorman became the youngest-ever poet to perform at a presidential inauguration. Her poem, The Hill We Climb, called for unity and togetherness and reminded us all of the power poetry has to touch the soul and inspire change. It was published in book form in March (6.99, WHSmith.co.uk),while The Hill We Climb and Other Poems will be published in December Penguin Random House is also publishing two other books by the young Harvard graduate. The first, Change Sings: A Childrens Anthem (10.99, Waterstones.com) was released in September. The second is a poetry collection called Call Us What We Carry (11.43, Amazon.co.uk) and is available for pre-order now. Gorman has undoubtedly raised the profile of poetry and on 7 October, people around the country will once again be celebrating National Poetry Day that aims to start conversations... encourage the love of language and best of all, [is] open to absolutely everyone to join in, quietly or noisily in rewarding and enjoyable ways. The event, founded in 1994 by the charity Forward Arts Foundation, aims to promote the reading, writing and teaching of poetry. This year, the theme this year is choice and the strapline is Choose a Poem. To mark National Poetry Day, weve chosen some of the best collections of poetry, many of them published in the last year. Our round-up includes books to suit all tastes, judging them on their beauty, originality and, in a year like no other, their ability to remind us of better times to come. Read more: The best poetry books for National Poetry Day for 2021 are: Best overall Set Me on Fire: A Poem for Every Feeling by Ella Risbridger: 11.65, Hive.co.uk Set Me on Fire: A Poem for Every Feeling by Ella Risbridger: 11.65, Hive.co.uk Best timely anthology These are the Hands: Poems from the Heart of the NHS' edited by Deborah Alma and Dr Katie Amiel: 9.99, Waterstones.com These are the Hands: Poems from the Heart of the NHS' edited by Deborah Alma and Dr Katie Amiel: 9.99, Waterstones.com Best historical poetry The Historians by Eavan Boland, published by Carcanet: 10.22, Bookshop.org The Historians by Eavan Boland, published by Carcanet: 10.22, Bookshop.org Best debut collection Poor by Caleb Femi: 9.99, Waterstones.com Poor by Caleb Femi: 9.99, Waterstones.com Best thought-provoking anthology How to Wash a Heart by Bhanu Kapil: 9.99, Liverpooluniversitypress.co.uk How to Wash a Heart by Bhanu Kapil: 9.99, Liverpooluniversitypress.co.uk Best prize-winning collection The Forward Book of Poetry 2021: The Best Poems from the Forward Prizes: 9.99, Waterstones.com The Forward Book of Poetry 2021: The Best Poems from the Forward Prizes: 9.99, Waterstones.com Best wide-ranging selection A Poem for Every Day of the Year edited by Allie Esiri: 19.99, Foyles.co.uk A Poem for Every Day of the Year edited by Allie Esiri: 19.99, Foyles.co.uk Best powerful anthology On the Move: Poems About Migration by Michael Rosen: 8.66, Blackwells.co.uk On the Move: Poems About Migration by Michael Rosen: 8.66, Blackwells.co.uk Best anthology about womanhood Teeth in the Back of My Neck by Monika Radojevic: 6.70, Amazon.co.uk Teeth in the Back of My Neck by Monika Radojevic: 6.70, Amazon.co.uk Best collection about animals Tiger, Tiger, Burning Bright! An Animal Poem for Every Day of the Year by Fiona Waters and Britta Teckentrup: 25, Waterstones.com Tiger, Tiger, Burning Bright! An Animal Poem for Every Day of the Year by Fiona Waters and Britta Teckentrup: 25, Waterstones.com Best comforting anthology The Poetry Pharmacy Returns: More Prescriptions for Courage, Healing and Hope by William Sieghart: 12.08, Bookshop.org Set Me on Fire: A Poem for Every Feeling by Ella Risbridger, published by Doubleday Best: Overall Ella Risbridger began collecting poems for this anthology as a present for her best friend, prompted by the realisation that they agree on everything in life except poetry. People hate poetry, often, because it has this reputation for being difficult, writes Risbridger. It doesnt have to be. It can be a road map or simply someone yelling out to let you know I was here too! I understand! She also questions why so many famous poets are dead white men and declares that shes sick and tired of finding that the only poems people know by heart are by Tennyson (fine) or Kipling (eesh). Divided into loose sections and covering everything from happy to rage and trauma, Set Me on Fire is a delight from start to finish. Its a refreshingly eclectic collection that will remind you of poets you love, like Rupert Brooke, WH Auden, Louis MacNeice and Dorothy Parker, and introduce you to a host of new names too. Buy now 11.65 , Hive.co.uk {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} These are the Hands: Poems from the Heart of the NHS' edited by Deborah Alma and Dr Katie Amiel, published by Fair Acre Press Best: Timely anthology This timely anthology is a poetry book like no other. It comprises more than 100 poems about the NHS and offers an extraordinary insight into the experience of the people who work in our hospitals, GP surgeries and health centres. The poems are largely written by NHS staff, from a student nurse at the start of his career to a heart surgeon on the point of retirement, but leading authors and poets have also contributed. The moving title poem, These are the Hands, was written by poet and former childrens laureate Michael Rosen, who spent 47 days in intensive care fighting coronavirus last year. Compassionate and wise, its a collection that will resonate with everyone. All the proceeds go to NHS Charities Together, which supports more than 140 official NHS charities and raises money for NHS hospitals, ambulance services and community and mental health services across the UK. Buy now 9.99 , Waterstones.com {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} The Historians by Eavan Boland, published by Carcanet Best: Historical poetry The acclaimed Irish poet Eavan Boland won the 2020 Costa Poetry Award posthumously for The Historians, her final book (she died in April 2020). She was known for her ability to weave myth, history and the life of ordinary women into spellbinding poetry and this collection is no exception. Poignant and evocative, Bolands words will stay in your memory long after youve finished reading them, whether shes describing two women burning letters in a back garden or Irish suffragists gathering in cities across Ireland to exercise their hard-won right to vote in 1918. Buy now 10.22 , Bookshop.org {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Poor by Caleb Femi, published by Penguin Books Best: Debut collection Caleb Femi is a photographer, film-maker and poet who was named Londons first young poet laureate in 2016. Poor is his debut poetry collection a tour de force that chronicles the trials, tribulations, dreams and joys of young black boys growing up in 21st century Peckham. His poetry and photography vividly depict the north Peckham estate where he himself lived, which only makes his poems all the more heart-rending, passionate and real. Buy now 9.99 , Waterstones.com {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} How to Wash a Heart by Bhanu Kapil, published by Liverpool University Press Best: Thought-provoking anthology The 25,000 TS Eliot Prize is the most valuable award in British poetry, won by names like Derek Walcott, Seamus Heaney, Carol Ann Duffy and Alice Oswald in the past. The 2020 judges unanimously chose How to Wash a Heart, Bhanu Kapils first full-length collection to be published in the UK, as their winner, declaring her work to be radical and arresting. Kapils slender volume explores the complex relationship that emerges between an immigrant guest and a liberal host and while its an unsettling, demanding read its also thought-provoking, compassionate and at times even comic. Buy now 9.99 , Liverpooluniversitypress.co.uk {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} The Forward Book of Poetry 2021: The Best Poems from the Forward Prizes, published by Bookmark Best: Prize-wining collection The Forward Prizes are among the most prestigious poetry awards in the country so its a delight to have a selection of the shortlisted 2020 entries in one volume. Previous winners include illustrious names like Seamus Heaney and Ted Hughes, and the chances are that some of the poets whose work features in this anthology will follow in their footsteps. Far from being remote and esoteric, they show that poetry can cover a whole gamut of subjects, from love and loss to the agonies of toothache and even, in one case, an appreciation of the humble raspberry pip. Buy now 9.99 , Waterstones.com {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} A Poem for Every Day of the Year edited by Allie Esiri, published by Macmillan Childrens Books Best: Wind-ranging selection If you havent read any poetry since your schooldays this wide-ranging anthology is the perfect way to rediscover the joy of verse. Poetry can give us strength, make us double up with laughter or marvel at lifes wonders and absurdities, declares Allie Esiri in the introduction and her book helped us to do all those things. Reading a poem every day is good for the soul, especially in troubled times, and the joy of this volume is that it does the choosing for you, often matching poems to the months and seasons. Esiri has even thrown a few song lyrics in for good measure, including All You Need is Love by John Lennon and Paul McCartney and Blowin in the Wind by Bob Dylan. Buy now 19.99 , Foyles.co.uk {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} On the Move: Poems About Migration by Michael Rosen, published by Walker Books Best: Powerful anthology The prolific Michael Rosen joined forces with fellow former childrens laureate Sir Quentin Blake to produce this powerful book of poems about migration. Rosen divides his poems into four sections. In the first, he recalls his childhood as part of a first-generation Polish family living in London. The second explores how he came to know about the Second World War and the third tells the story of his missing relatives. After these very personal poems, the fourth section explores migration around the world today. Blakes haunting drawings complement Rosens compelling words beautifully in this very accessible volume. Buy now 8.66 , Blackwells.co.uk {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Teeth in the Back of My Neck by Monika Radojevic, published by Merky Books Best: Anthology about womanhood Monika RadojevicsTeeth in the Back of My Neck was one of the two inaugural winners of the #Merky Books New Writers Prize, a competition to discover unpublished, under-represented young writers. Half Brazilian and half Montenegrin, Radojevic says her debut collection (out in May) draws on the joys, the confusions and the moments of sadness behind having ones history scattered around the globe and the way in which your identity is always worn on your skin, whether you like it or not. The books memorable title is taken from a line in Midriff, an insightful poem about body image, but one of the most shocking poems in the collection is 56+, a poem about the increasing use of rough sex defences by men in court when they are tried for the killing or violent injury of women during sex. This is a courageous, arresting debut from a poet to watch. Buy now 6.70 , Amazon.co.uk {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Tiger, Tiger, Burning Bright! An Animal Poem for Every Day of the Year by Fiona Waters and Britta Teckentrup, published by Nosy Crow Best: Collection about animals This gorgeous anthology is the sequel to the award-winning I Am the Seed that Grew the Tree and will enchant readers young and old. The books title is taken from The Tiger, William Blakes classic poem, and features an animal poem for every day of the year. Exquisitely illustrated by Britta Teckentrup, it features old favourites by Gerard Manley Hopkins and Ted Hughes and more recent poems like Carol Ann Duffys The Wasp and Crab Dance by Grace Nichols. If youre a poetry novice, an animal lover or a parent looking to share rhymes and verse with your children, this hefty tome will get you off to a flying start. Buy now 25 , Waterstones.com {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} The Poetry Pharmacy Returns: More Prescriptions for Courage, Healing and Hope by William Sieghart, published by Particular Books Best: Comforting anthology William Sieghart came up with the idea of The Poetry Pharmacy in 2014 when he started prescribing poems to help people cope with problems in their lives. It was so successful that he went on to produce a second volume. Sieghart describes poetry as a healing force and says poems have helped him throughout his life. This collection addresses a plethora of new themes, from choosing a life partner to political apathy. Our favourites included Walking Away by Cecil Day-Lewis, prescribed for empty nest syndrome, and Oh by Robert Creeley, prescribed for people caring for ageing parents. Each poem is accompanied by a short essay written by Sieghart, explaining his choice. Buy now 12.08 , Bookshop.org {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} The verdict: Poetry books to celebrate National Poetry Day Our top choice is Ella Risbridgers Set Me on Fire: A Poem for Every Feeling. Its engaging, eclectic and will appeal to poetry lovers and poetry novices alike. Close runners-up are The Historians by Eavan Boland, a moving and insightful collection that will stand the test of time, and the extraordinary Poor by Caleb Femi. Voucher codes For the latest discounts on audiobooks, try the link below: Audible discount codes Unsure what to read next? Take inspiration from the Womens Prize For Fiction IndyBest product reviews are unbiased, independent advice you can trust. On some occasions, we earn revenue if you click the links and buy the products, but we never allow this to bias our coverage. The reviews are compiled through a mix of expert opinion and real-world testing. The University of Manchester made waves recently when its students union announced it would be encouraging students to replace clapping with jazz hands at events. Jazz hands is the British Sign Language expression of clapping, and the university union hopes that by doing away with clapping, whooping and cheering, events will be more accessible to people suffering from anxiety and those with hearing problems. But where did this decision come from and what other alternatives to clapping are there? Whats the deal with jazz hands? In British Sign Language, whats technically known as silent jazz hands is the action to show applause. It involves waving both hands by the sides of your body, around shoulder/face height. The action was created not only because deaf people wouldnt be able to hear clapping, but also because people often clap their hands in their laps or at waist level, which isnt always easy to see. Its thought the action originated in France, where deaf people would wave their napkins in the air at banquets to show applause and approval. Where did the Manchester University Students Union decision come from? The decision has been made in order to be more inclusive. According to student newspaper The Mancunion, the motion to replace clapping and cheering with jazz hands received little opposition from the university senate when it was raised on September 27. Recommended Students who claim to have had drinks spiked describe experiences However, the National Union of Students (NUS) has actually been encouraging delegates to applaud with jazz hands rather than clapping since 2015. Whats more, in 2017 the NUS said there would be consequences for students who clap and whoop at events, following requests for people to stop. However, the move was also criticised by some who pointed out that blind people cannot hear jazz hands. What other alternatives to clapping are there? Whilst clapping is one of the main ways applause is expressed across the world and jazz hands are used in British Sign Language, theyre not the only forms of ovation. In Germany, for example, and in schools in particular, applause is often expressed by knocking on tables or desks with your knuckles. Similarly, in newsrooms theres a tradition of cheering someone out of the office, which is known as 'banging out' - employees bang their hands on their desks as a colleague leaves the room on their last day at the company. In recent years, clicking your fingers has been adopted in the place of clapping in some workplaces - The New York Times declared snapping is the new clapping in 2015. Snapping repeatedly for a sustained several seconds is a way for audience members and classroom denizens to express approval without completely disrupting a lecture, speech or performance, they wrote. Its seen to be a quiet - rather than silent - signal of agreement. Aston Martins much-anticipated debut on the stock market floundered as the British luxury car makers share price fell as much as 7.5 per cent on their opening day of trading. The 105-year-old company - which has gone bust seven times - had already slashed the top end of its valuation from 5.1bn to 4.3bn prior to going public on Wednesday. Aston closed on Wednesday at 18.10, down 5 per cent, valuing the company at around 4.1bn. Recommended Aston Martin cuts target share price for stock market listing Despite the slow start, three investors - Investindustrial, Adeem Investments and Primewagon - along with Astons senior management will bank more than 1bn between them. The company is the first UK car manufacturer to sell shares in years and had attracted a lot of interest despite its chequered financial history. Jasper Lawler, of London Capital Group, said Aston had the kind of dinner party appeal that few initial public offerings can match. The British carmaker is in rude financial health, he said. Aston on Tuesday narrowed its expected price range from between 17.50 and 22.50 per share to between 18.50 and 20 per share. But investors baulked at the valuation of almost 21 times the companys earnings which put it at around the same multiple as its only other listed rival Ferrari, a company that has consistently delivered profits. Chief executive Andy Palmer said: Today's listing on the London Stock Exchange represents a historic milestone for Aston Martin Lagonda. We are delighted by the positive response we have received from investors across the world and are very pleased to welcome our new shareholders to the register. The sale comes just months before Brexit which is set to hurt the UKs car industry unless the government makes significant progress on a trade deal with the EU. Car manufacturers are expected to be among the hardest hit, because they rely on hundreds of parts sourced from across the Continent. But chief executive Andy Palmer said last month that Aston Martin is well insulated from problems that could result from the UK crashing out of the EU without a trade deal. We can demonstrate that Brexit is not a major effect for us, he said. If there is a tariff into Europe, its countered by a tariff into the UK for our competitors so you might lose a little bit of market share in the EU but you pick it up in the UK. Aston Martin sells roughly 25 per cent of its cars to the EU and operates its only plant in Britain, with a second one due to begin operations in 2019. Italys economy minister was forced to announce that the countrys deficit will come down after all on Wednesday in order to calm frightened debt investors and to forestall a potential reopening of the eurozone crisis. Italian 10-year bond yields have spiked to their highest levels in more than four years in the wake of the populist coalition governments announcement last week that it would jack up its domestic spending next year, sending the budget deficit up to 2.4 per cent of GDP over the next three years. That set up the possibility of an explosive confrontation with the rest of the eurozone, which has rules to keep member states borrowing within tight bounds. But Giovanni Tria, the economy minister, said the deficit would fall gradually from 2020, rather than remaining stable, confirming media overnight reports of a softening of the stance of the Five Star/League government in Rome. The deficit will increase compared with the previous forecast in 2019, but then there will be a gradual reduction in the following years, Mr Tria told an audience of industrialists in the Italian capital. He also said the government would ensure Italys high public debt to GDP ratio would decline over the coming years. Italian 10-year bond yields jumped as high as 3.46 per cent this week after last weeks budget announcement, the highest since 2014. In 2011, they peaked at 7.5 per cent as it looked like Italy might be forced out of the single currency. The president of the European Commission drew parallels on Monday between Italys budget proposals and those of Greece, which came within a hairs breadth of crashing out of the single currency in 2015. Market alarm But yields subsided on Wednesday to 3.375 per cent, down 10 basis points on the day, as investors responded to the moderation of the governments stance. The Italian stock market was also up 1.1 per cent on the day, clawing back some of the 3.72 per cent slide last Friday following the original budget announcement. The deficit forecast news is the main reason markets are doing what they are doing today, said Mathias van der Jeugt of KBC Bank. But this is too little to bridge the gap between the EU and Italy. We might get some more relief, but I think it will be short-lived unless Italy comes up with a better proposal that is more aligned with what the EU wants. Pret a Manger will list all ingredients on all of its products following the death of a teenage customer after eating one of the chains baguettes. Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, 15, died in 2016 from a severe allergic reaction caused by sesame seeds which were not listed as an ingredient of the artichoke, olive and tapenade baguette. Pret said it would now ensure that labels on all products, including those made fresh in-store, would now show all ingredients. The company said it will trial the new system next month and roll it out to all of its UK shops as quickly as possible. A loophole in the law means shops do not have to display all allergen information for food made on site. In a statement, Pret chief executive Clive Schlee said: I want to say again how deeply sorry we are for the loss of Natasha. I said we would learn from this tragedy and ensure meaningful changes happen. I hope these measures set us on course to drive change in the industry so people with allergies are as protected and informed as possible. Nothing is more important to Pret right now. Natashas father, Nadim Ednan-Laperouse, last week accused the company and the government of playing Russian roulette with his daughters life. Mr Ednan-Laperouse said her death should be a watershed moment that prompts life-saving changes in food labelling laws. The environment secretary, Michael Gove, has said the government is urgently reviewing the legislation. Food companies are required by EU regulations to warn customers about allergy risks. They can do this either on signs and packaging or orally, usually meaning they are told to enquire themselves. Pret previously chose to deliver the information orally and is supposed to have stickers within fridges telling customers to ask staff members for details. The companys complaint log from between 17 July 2015 and 29 June 2016 records nine cases of sesame-related allergy incidents. One woman involved in one such incident contacted the law firm representing Natashas family, after learning about the teenagers death. She told them that she nearly died after suffering an anaphylactic reaction to the sesame in a baguette nine months before Natashas death, Jeremy Hyam QC told an inquest at West London Coroners Court last month. Her father, a doctor, was present and saved her life, she said, adding that she was 17 at the time. Tesco has warned that opportunities to stockpile food in order to prepare for a no-deal Brexit are very, very limited. Chief executive Dave Lewis said that ensuring supplies of food remain uninterrupted was the single biggest challenge facing supermarkets as the UK prepares to leave the EU. Despite the urgent need to plan for Brexit, Mr Lewis said Britain's biggest retailer was still unable to fully prepare until the outcome of negotiations becomes clearer. The supermarket chain is in wait and see mode, he said. Recommended Aldi considers stockpiling food to cope with Brexit The biggest single challenge will be in a no-deal scenario and what happens with fresh food. The possibility of stockpiling fresh food is very, very limited, Mr Lewis said, adding that supplies of dry food could be built up. He said plans to ensure fresh food imports are not held up is where all our attention will be in the lead up (to Brexit). The comments came as Tesco unveiled rising half-year sales and profits, boosted by its takeover of wholesaler Booker. Tesco delivered its 11th quarter in a row of rising like-for-like sales in the UK and Ireland while pre-tax profits for the six months to 25 August rose to 564m, 2 per cent higher than the same period last year. Underlying operating profits were up 24.4 per cent to 933m in the first half. Despite the results, Tescos share price slumped almost 9 per cent on Wednesday as disappointing performance left earnings short of expectations. Aldi revealed on Monday that it has considered stockpiling food as part of its preparations for Brexit. But chief executive Giles Hurley added that Aldi's increased fresh food range would make this more difficult. Brexit casualties Show all 10 1 /10 Brexit casualties Brexit casualties Andrea Jenkyns - Resigned from Parliamentary Private Secretary at the ministry for housing, communities and local government role May 2018 - The Morley and Outwood MP said: We want to see a new relationship with Europe, with a new model not enjoyed by other countries nothing that leaves us half-in, half-out. And in order to achieve this, we need to leave the customs union. Ms Jenkyns also said she wished to dedicate more of her time to Parliaments influential Exiting the European Union select committee, after a series of unbalanced reports produced by MPs PA Brexit casualties David Davis - Resigned from Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union role July 2018 - quit following a major row with May over her plans for post-Brexit relations with the EU. Davis resignation letter said: As you know there have been a significant number of occasions in the last year or so on which I have disagreed with the Number 10 policy line, ranging from accepting the [European] Commissions sequencing of negotiations, through to the language on Northern Ireland in the December Joint Report. At each stage I have accepted collective responsibility because it is part of my task to find workable compromises, and because I considered it was still possible to deliver on the mandate of the referendum, and on our manifesto commitment to leave the Customs Union and the Single Market. I am afraid that I think the current trend of policy and tactics is making that look less and less likely. He went on to argue that the general direction of Ms Mays policies would leave the UK in at best a weak negotiating position, and possibly an inescapable one. AFP/Getty Brexit casualties Steve Baker - Resigned from Minister at the Department for Exiting the European Union role July 2018 - Mr Baker, a key Tory figure in the Leave campaign, was David Daviss main lieutenant at Dexeu, and was hailed as courageous and principled by other Brexiteer Tories as he also left. Reuters Brexit casualties Boris Johnson - Resigned from Foreign Secretary role July 2018 - resigned over May's Chequers plan. In his resignation letter to the prime minister, Mr Johnson said: "On Friday, I acknowledged that my side of the argument were too few to prevail and congratulated you on at least reaching a Cabinet decision on the way forward. "As I said then, the government now has a song to sing. "The trouble is that I have practised the words over the weekend and find that they stick in the throat." Reuters Brexit casualties Conor Burns - Resigned from Parliamentary Private Secretary to Foreign Secretary role July 2018 - A Brexit supporter who worked alongside Boris Johnson stated in his resignation letter: I've decided it's time to have greater freedom. I want to see the referendum result respected. And there are other areas of policy I want to speak more openly on. Rex Brexit casualties Chris Green - Resigned from Department for Transport role July 2018 - The Bolton West MP said: "Parliament overwhelmingly decided to give the decision of whether to leave or remain in the European Union to the British people and they made an unambiguous decision that we ought to leave. "I have always understood the idea in 'Brexit means Brexit' is that the final deal should be clear to me and my constituents - that we have, in no uncertain terms, left the European Union. Twitter Ads info and privacy "The direction the negotiations had been taking have suggested that we would not really leave the EU and the conclusion and statements following the Chequers summit confirmed my fears. "I recognise that delivering Brexit is challenging, however I had hoped at tonight's meeting that there would be some certainty that my fears were unfounded but, instead, they have been confirmed. "I have been grateful for the opportunity to serve as Parliamentary Private Secretary and it is with regret that I offer my resignation with immediate effect." PA Brexit casualties Maria Caulfield - Resigned from Conservative Party vice-chair for women role July 2018 - resigned over May's Chequers plan. Lewes MP warned that the direction of travel did not fully embrace the opportunities that Brexit can provide. Ms Caulfield said in her letter to the PM: The policy may assuage vested interests, but the voters will find out and their representatives will be found out. This policy will be bad for our country and bad for the party. The direct consequences of that will be prime minister Corbyn. PA Brexit casualties Ben Bradley - Resigned from Conservative Party vice-chair for young people role July 2018 - resigned over May's Chequers plan. The Mansfield MP said: I admit that I voted to Remain in that ballot. What has swayed me over the last two years to fully back the Brexit vision is the immense opportunities that are available from global trade, and for the ability for Britain to be an outward looking nation in control of our own destiny once again. I fear that this agreement at Chequers damages those opportunities; that being tied to EU regulations, and the EU tying our hands when seeking to make new trade agreements, will be the worst of all worlds if we do not deliver Brexit in spirit as well as in name, then we are handing Jeremy Corbyn the keys to No10. PA Brexit casualties Robert Courts - Resigned from Parliamentary Private Secretary role July 2018 - resigned over May's Chequers plan. MP Mr Courts said: I have taken a very difficult decision to resign my position as [parliamentary private secretary] to express discontent with the Chequers [plans] in votes tomorrow. I had to think who I wanted to see in the mirror for the rest of my life. I cannot tell the people of Woxon that I support the proposals in their current form. Getty Brexit casualties Scott Mann - Resigned from Parliamentary Private Secretary role July 2018 - resigned over May's Chequers plan. "I fear elements of the Brexit white paper will inevitably put me in direct conflict with the views expressed by a large section of my constituents. I am not prepared to compromise their wishes to deliver a watered-down Brexit. "The residents of North Cornwall made it very clear that they wish to have control over our fishery, our agricultural policy, our money, our laws and our borders. I will evaluate those principles against the Brexit white paper and ensure that I vote in line with their wishes." Rex While I think storage of additional stock is worth considering, based on storage and shelf life that would be very challenging, he said. Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab said in July that the government is making plans to secure food supply in the event of a no-deal Brexit. But he said it was wrong to describe it as the Government doing the stockpiling, indicating that industry would need to take the lead. UK patients have been cut from an international clinical trial to test a new heart attack drug because of uncertainties about registering new medicines after Brexit. The drug, dutogliptin, is being tested to see if it can help regenerate cardiac muscle after a heart attack and patients in Exeter, Leeds and Clydebank in Scotland were due to take part. However, Recardio, the US-based company developing the drug, has shelved the UK arm of the trial over fears that data in Britain will no longer be acceptable to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) which licenses drugs for EU use after Britain quits the bloc. Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize Show all 10 1 /10 Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize Subarachnoid vessels The runner-up image came from Matt MacGregor Sharp, a PhD student at the University of Southampton. The super-high resolution image shows a normal artery at the surface of a rats brain and was taken with a powerful scanning electron microscope. These subarachnoid vessels supply blood to the brain and also act like a drain to remove toxic waste products. Matt Macgregors team are trying to show that failure to remove waste by these vessels is one of the underlying causes of vascular dementia. The researchers took the image using a technique called freeze fracture, where tissue or cell samples are frozen and then split apart to reveal the hidden layers within the sample so they can be studied in extreme detail. Sitting above the brown brain tissue, the artery appears blue, and its surrounding layer, the pia mater, is shown in purple. Matt MacGregor Sharp, University of Southampton, British Heart Foundation - Reflections of Research Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize Explosive beginnings Winner: Endothelial cells line all blood vessels in the body, forming a barrier between the circulating blood and the vessel wall. They also help to protect blood vessels from damage and release important chemical messengers which help to control blood pressure. The winning researcher, Courtney Williams, is a Masters student and PhD candidate at Leeds University. Her lab are developing new ways to map the growth of new blood vessels within their surrounding landscape in 3D. Understanding the complex secrets of blood vessel formation could be harnessed to boost the regrowth of damaged blood vessels after a heart attack, and halt blood vessel growth when its counterproductive. Courtney Williams, Leeds University, British Heart Foundation - Reflections of Research Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize A snapshot of platelet production - Reflections of Research Supporters Favourite This image from Abdullah Obaid Khan, a PhD student at the University of Birmingham, won the supporters favourite. What look like precious jewels are actually platelets forming within the bone marrow. Platelets are the smallest of our circulating blood cells with a hugely important role in preventing bleeding. However, they also play a role in the formation of clots, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Abdullah Obaid Khan and his team are studying rare bleeding disorders. Abdullah Obaid Khan, University of Birmingham, British Heart Foundation - Reflections of Research Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize Cardiac collagen web - Shortlist This colourful image shows the web-like, network of the smallest blood vessels in the heart the microvessels. Magenta marks the outer collagen layer of the vessels; while orange marks their inner lining and blue the cell nuclei. Dr Neil Dufton, Imperial College London Dr Neil Dufton, Imperial College London, British Heart Foundation - Reflections of Research Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize Heart to Heart - Shortlist This piece shows four ventricles (from a mouse) arranged into the shape of the hearts four normal chambers. The researchers have used fluorescent markers to recognise certain proteins and created the image using of hundreds of images assembled together. Dr Elisa Avolio and Dr Zexu Dang, University of Bristol Dr Elisa Avolio and Dr Zexu Dang, University of Bristol, British Heart Foundation - Reflections of Research Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize Loving artery - Shortlist This image shows a cross section of an artery and the different layers which make up the artery wall. Affiliate Professor Silvia Lacchini, University of Glasgow Silvia Lacchini, University of Glasgow, British Heart Foundation - Reflections of Research Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize Oxidative inkblot - Shortlist This colour explosion shows one of the culprits in cardiovascular disease an enzyme called NADPH oxidase. The enzyme is considered Janus faced because it is important in health, as well as disease. This picture shows the active enzyme in patients who have high blood pressure. Dr Livia de Lucca Camargo, University of Glasgow Dr Livia de Lucca Camargo, University of Glasgow, British Heart Foundation - Reflections of Research Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize Neon skeleton - Shortlist This image shows the developing blood vessel system of a two day old zebrafish embryo. The researchers used gene enhancers (the on-off switches of genes) to switch on fluorescent markers in different types of endothelial cells the important cells which line all blood vessels. All blood vessels switch on the red marker, while the veins also switch on the green marker, resulting in yellow veins and red arteries. Dr Svanhild Nornes, University of Oxford Dr Svanhild Nornes, University of Oxford, British Heart Foundation - Reflections of Research Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize Calcium reef - Shortlist This image shows calcium in blood vessel cells from people who have high blood pressure and resembles Australias Great Barrier Reef. Dr Rheure Alves-Lopes, University of Glasgow Dr Rheure Alves-Lopes, University of Glasgow, British Heart Foundation - Reflections of Research Under the skin best of the British Heart Foundation 2018 image prize Budding blood vessels - Shortlist This image shows the growing blood vessels in the mouse retina. In red you can see all the blood vessels and in yellow/green you can see the blood vessels that are actively growing (a process called sprouting). PhD candidate Kira Chouliaras, University of Oxford Kira Chouliaras, University of Oxford, British Heart Foundation - Reflections of Research Experts have repeatedly warned that leaving the EU means the UK will be put to the back of the queue for new drugs as manufacturers prioritise the large EU market, and half a million patients in clinical trials will be put at risk. The lack of progress in addressing these issues ahead of the 29 March 2019 deadline is creating a very difficult situation for companies such as Recardio, its founder and president, Dr Roman Schenk, told the BBC. But the government said it was confident the UK would still be a good base for trials after the March deadline. The Independents own Final Say campaign is calling on Theresa May to guarantee a second referendum before the UK quits for voters to have their say on the deal. The dutogliptin trial is running in hospitals in Poland, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Hungary, the Netherlands and the US. The Golden Jubilee Research Institute, near Glasgow, had been due to take part as well but was informed by Recardio by email on 17 September that this had been put on hold. According to the company, uncertainty due to EU withdrawal, particularly drug and data release to the EMA, are completely unresolved and represent a significant risk, a spokesman for the institute said. However, this may change when the regulatory situation has clarity. While it was disappointing the trial would not go ahead as planned, they added that patients would still receive the same safe, effective, innovative care. A Scottish government spokesman said: This is the first clinical study we are aware of to be suspended in Scotland as a result of Brexit and a very concerning sign of what could happen. We are working hard to protect Scotlands interests in spite of a lack of clarity and meaningful engagement from the UK government over our future. With Brexit only six months away, we are doing all we can to plan and mitigate against as many of the significant uncertainties that exist for our health service. A spokeswoman for the Department of Health said: We are confident of reaching a deal with the EU that benefits patients and continues to deliver the best possible environment in which to support clinical trials. We want to ensure that patients in the UK and across the EU are still able to access the most innovative and effective medicines. Additional reporting by PA The US president is in love with the leader of North Korea. No more the little rocket man who will face fire and fury like never seen before: now Donald cannot wait to see Kim again. We fell in love. He wrote me beautiful letters. And they were great letters. And we fell in love, the US president declared last weekend. We are doing just great with North Korea. In the same speech in West Virginia, Trump assured the audience I just left the United Nations, believe me they respect us again, before warning that a vote for the Democrats in the mid-terms would turn America into a version of Venezuela. The statements were an illustration of the strange, dystopian world of the Donald and diplomacy, in which the policy of the planets most powerful country can be changed by flattering a man with little knowledge of history or current affairs, who can insist that public mockery at a world forum is a mark of respect. High energy light beaming from the edges of a weird star system within our galaxy has been detected for the first time. The source of these signals is a microquasar a black hole consuming material from its companion star before blasting it out in two jets across the Milky Way. As electrons accelerate and collide at the end of these jets they produce powerful gamma rays, which scientists say can provide new insights into the universes most dramatic events. The microquasar at the heart of the study, known as SS 433, is one of only a dozen ever found in our galaxy and is located around 15,000 light years away from Earth. Despite this distance, the scientists said its relative proximity will give them an idea of events taking place well beyond the confines of our galaxy. Professor Jordan Goodman, an astrophysicist at the University of Maryland who led the research, said because SS 433 is right in our neighbourhood it could provide insights into its giant, extragalactic cousins, called quasars. Unlike the smaller microquasars, which only feed on single stars, quasars are massive black holes that suck in material from the centre of galaxies. As a rule, they are so far away that they prove difficult to observe directly from Earth. Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Show all 30 1 /30 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Solar Flare An image from Nasa's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) shows a 200,000 mile long solar filament ripping through the Sun's corona in September 2013 Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Nasa Celebrates 50 Years of Spacewalking For 50 years, NASA has been "suiting up" for spacewalking. In this 1984 photograph of the first untethered spacewalk, NASA astronaut Bruce McCandless is in the midst of the first "field" tryout of a nitrogen-propelled backpack device called the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space A Hubble Cosmic Couple The spectacular cosmic pairing of the star Hen 2-427 more commonly known as WR 124 and the nebula M1-67 which surrounds it ESA/Hubble & NASA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Veil Nebula Supernova Remnant Nasa's Hubble Space Telescope has unveiled in stunning detail a small section of the Veil Nebula - expanding remains of a massive star that exploded about 8,000 years ago Nasa's most stunning pictures of space The Soyuz TMA-15M rocket launch The Soyuz TMA-15M rocket launches from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Monday, Nov. 24, 2014, carrying three new astronauts to the International Space Station. It also took caviar, ready for the satellite's inhabitants to celebrate the holidays Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Earth from the ISS From the International Space Station, Expedition 42 Flight Engineer Terry W. Virts took this photograph of the Gulf of Mexico and U.S. Gulf Coast at sunset Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Black Hole Friday Nasa celebrated Black Friday by looking into space instead sharing pictures of black holes Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space NuSTAR X-rays stream off the sun in this image showing observations from by NASA's Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array, or NuSTAR, overlaid on a picture taken by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Cassiopeia A c A false colour image of Cassiopeia A comprised with data from the Spitzer and Hubble Space Telescopes and the Chandra X-Ray observatory Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Orion Capsule splashes down The Orion capsule jetted off into space before heading back a few hours later having proved that it can be used, one day, to carry humans to Mars Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Earth Observations From Gemini IV in 1965 This photograph of the Florida Straits and Grand Bahama Bank was taken during the Gemini IV mission during orbit no. 19 in 1965. The Gemini IV crew conducted scientific experiments, including photography of Earth's weather and terrain, for the remainder of their four-day mission following Ed White's historic spacewalk on June 3 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Frosty slopes of Mars This image of an area on the surface of Mars, approximately 1.5 by 3 kilometers in size, shows frosted gullies on a south-facing slope within a crater. The image was taken by Nasa's HiRISE camera, which is mounted on its Mars Reconaissance Orbiter Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Yellowstone from space NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman shared this image of Yellowstone via his twitter account Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Saturn This near-infrared color image shows a specular reflection, or sunglint, off of a hydrocarbon lake named Kivu Lacus on Saturn's moon Titan Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Worlds Apart Although Mimas and Pandora, shown here, both orbit Saturn, they are very different moons. Pandora, "small" by moon standards (50 miles or 81 kilometers across) is elongated and irregular in shape. Mimas (246 miles or 396 kilometers across), a "medium-sized" moon, formed into a sphere due to self-gravity imposed by its higher mass Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Solar Flare An X1.6 class solar flare flashes in the middle of the sun in this image taken 10 September, captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Large Magellanic Cloud galaxy An image of the Large Magellanic Cloud galaxy seen in infrared light by the Herschel Space Observatory. Regions of space such as this are where new stars are born from a mixture of elements and cosmic dust Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Mars Rover Spirit Nasa's Mars Rover Spirit took the first picture from Spirit since problems with communications began a week earlier. The image shows the robotic arm extended to the rock called Adirondack Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Morning Aurora From the Space Station Nasa astronaut Scott Kelly captured this photograph of the green lights of the aurora from the International Space Station Nasa/Scott Kelly Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Launch of History - Making STS-41G Mission in 1984 The Space Shuttle Challenger launches from Florida at dawn. On this mission, Kathryn Sullivan became the first U.S. woman to perform a spacewalk and Marc Garneau became the first Canadian in space. The crew of seven was the largest to fly on a spacecraft at that time, and STS-41G was the first flight to include two female astronauts Nasa's most stunning pictures of space A Fresh Perspective on an Extraordinary Cluster of Galaxies Galaxy clusters are often described by superlatives. After all, they are huge conglomerations of galaxies, hot gas, and dark matter and represent the largest structures in the Universe held together by gravity Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Hubble Sees a Galactic Sunflower The arrangement of the spiral arms in the galaxy Messier 63, seen here in an image from the Nasa Hubble Space Telescope, recall the pattern at the center of a sunflower ESA/Hubble & NASA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Pluto image Four images from New Horizons Long Range Reconnaissance Imager (LORRI) were combined with colour data from the Ralph instrument to create this enhanced colour global view of Pluto Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Fresh Crater Near Sirenum Fossae Region of Mars The HiRISE camera aboard Nasa's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter acquired this closeup image of a "fresh" (on a geological scale, though quite old on a human scale) impact crater in the Sirenum Fossae region of Mars. This impact crater appears relatively recent as it has a sharp rim and well-preserved ejecta Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Hubble Peers into the Most Crowded Place in the Milky Way This Nasa Hubble Space Telescope image presents the Arches Cluster, the densest known star cluster in the Milky Way NASA & ESA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space An Astronaut's View from Space Nasa astronaut Reid Wiseman tweeted this photo from the International Space Station on 2 September 2014 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Giant Landform on Mars On Mars, we can observe four classes of sandy landforms formed by the wind, or aeolian bedforms: ripples, transverse aeolian ridges, dunes, and what are called draa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Expedition 39 Landing A sokol suit helmet can be seen against the window of the Soyuz TMA-11M capsule shortly after the spacecraft landed with Expedition 39 Commander Koichi Wakata of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Soyuz Commander Mikhail Tyurin of Roscosmos, and Flight Engineer Rick Mastracchio of NASA near the town of Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan (NASA/Bill Ingalls) Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Jupiter's Great Red Spot Viewed by Voyager I Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system and perhaps the most majestic. Vibrant bands of clouds carried by winds that can exceed 400 mph continuously circle the planet's atmosphere Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Chandra Observatory Sees a Heart in the Darkness This Chandra X-Ray Observatory image of the young star cluster NGC 346 highlights a heart-shaped cloud of 8 million-degree Celsius gas in the central region The new measurements were taken using HAWC, a detector located high in the mountains of central Mexico. As gamma rays produced by the distant microquasar strike Earths atmosphere, they form new particles and lower energy rays. These create a shower of particles that rain down onto the planets surface, which are detected by the HAWC apparatus. Not only does the array of water tanks that forms the basis of HAWC absorb the particles, the special cameras inside them allow the researchers to determine the precise origin of the rays. In their new paper, published in the journal Nature, the scientists have outlined the latest findings from SS 433, which has been gradually picked apart using data collected by HAWC. SS 433 is an unusual star system and each year something new has come out about it, said Professor Segev BenZvi, a physicist at the University of Rochester who co-authored the study. Gamma rays can be combined with other readings obtained from this microquasar and used to build up a complete picture of events on the other side of the galaxy. Recommended Black holes may offer a route to another universe Looking at only one kind of light coming from SS 433 is like seeing only the tail of an animal, said Dr Ke Fang of Stanford University. Thus, we combine all of its signals, from low energy radio to X-ray, with new high-energy gamma ray observations, to find out what kind of beast SS 433 really is. Professor BenZvi said the latest measurements provided new insights into one of the weirdest objects in the Milky Way. Every measurement gives us a different piece of the puzzle, and we hope to use our knowledge to learn about the quasar family as a whole. Nasa has been forced to try and clarify the details of a leak on the International Space Station amid reports that it was made on purpose. The Russian space agency has been clear that it believes that the hole in the space station that caused the leak was not a "manufacturing defect". But Nasa said that while that is true, it did not necessarily mean that it had been done on purpose, as some local reports had suggested. It came amid conspiracy theories reported in Russian media that a Nasa astronaut had intentionally made the hole. Some reported it had been done to trigger an emergency alert on board the space station and allow the crew to come down for free without that alert, Nasa would have to pay the Russian space agency. Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Show all 30 1 /30 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Solar Flare An image from Nasa's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) shows a 200,000 mile long solar filament ripping through the Sun's corona in September 2013 Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Nasa Celebrates 50 Years of Spacewalking For 50 years, NASA has been "suiting up" for spacewalking. In this 1984 photograph of the first untethered spacewalk, NASA astronaut Bruce McCandless is in the midst of the first "field" tryout of a nitrogen-propelled backpack device called the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space A Hubble Cosmic Couple The spectacular cosmic pairing of the star Hen 2-427 more commonly known as WR 124 and the nebula M1-67 which surrounds it ESA/Hubble & NASA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Veil Nebula Supernova Remnant Nasa's Hubble Space Telescope has unveiled in stunning detail a small section of the Veil Nebula - expanding remains of a massive star that exploded about 8,000 years ago Nasa's most stunning pictures of space The Soyuz TMA-15M rocket launch The Soyuz TMA-15M rocket launches from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Monday, Nov. 24, 2014, carrying three new astronauts to the International Space Station. It also took caviar, ready for the satellite's inhabitants to celebrate the holidays Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Earth from the ISS From the International Space Station, Expedition 42 Flight Engineer Terry W. Virts took this photograph of the Gulf of Mexico and U.S. Gulf Coast at sunset Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Black Hole Friday Nasa celebrated Black Friday by looking into space instead sharing pictures of black holes Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space NuSTAR X-rays stream off the sun in this image showing observations from by NASA's Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array, or NuSTAR, overlaid on a picture taken by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Cassiopeia A c A false colour image of Cassiopeia A comprised with data from the Spitzer and Hubble Space Telescopes and the Chandra X-Ray observatory Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Orion Capsule splashes down The Orion capsule jetted off into space before heading back a few hours later having proved that it can be used, one day, to carry humans to Mars Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Earth Observations From Gemini IV in 1965 This photograph of the Florida Straits and Grand Bahama Bank was taken during the Gemini IV mission during orbit no. 19 in 1965. The Gemini IV crew conducted scientific experiments, including photography of Earth's weather and terrain, for the remainder of their four-day mission following Ed White's historic spacewalk on June 3 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Frosty slopes of Mars This image of an area on the surface of Mars, approximately 1.5 by 3 kilometers in size, shows frosted gullies on a south-facing slope within a crater. The image was taken by Nasa's HiRISE camera, which is mounted on its Mars Reconaissance Orbiter Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Yellowstone from space NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman shared this image of Yellowstone via his twitter account Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Saturn This near-infrared color image shows a specular reflection, or sunglint, off of a hydrocarbon lake named Kivu Lacus on Saturn's moon Titan Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Worlds Apart Although Mimas and Pandora, shown here, both orbit Saturn, they are very different moons. Pandora, "small" by moon standards (50 miles or 81 kilometers across) is elongated and irregular in shape. Mimas (246 miles or 396 kilometers across), a "medium-sized" moon, formed into a sphere due to self-gravity imposed by its higher mass Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Solar Flare An X1.6 class solar flare flashes in the middle of the sun in this image taken 10 September, captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Large Magellanic Cloud galaxy An image of the Large Magellanic Cloud galaxy seen in infrared light by the Herschel Space Observatory. Regions of space such as this are where new stars are born from a mixture of elements and cosmic dust Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Mars Rover Spirit Nasa's Mars Rover Spirit took the first picture from Spirit since problems with communications began a week earlier. The image shows the robotic arm extended to the rock called Adirondack Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Morning Aurora From the Space Station Nasa astronaut Scott Kelly captured this photograph of the green lights of the aurora from the International Space Station Nasa/Scott Kelly Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Launch of History - Making STS-41G Mission in 1984 The Space Shuttle Challenger launches from Florida at dawn. On this mission, Kathryn Sullivan became the first U.S. woman to perform a spacewalk and Marc Garneau became the first Canadian in space. The crew of seven was the largest to fly on a spacecraft at that time, and STS-41G was the first flight to include two female astronauts Nasa's most stunning pictures of space A Fresh Perspective on an Extraordinary Cluster of Galaxies Galaxy clusters are often described by superlatives. After all, they are huge conglomerations of galaxies, hot gas, and dark matter and represent the largest structures in the Universe held together by gravity Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Hubble Sees a Galactic Sunflower The arrangement of the spiral arms in the galaxy Messier 63, seen here in an image from the Nasa Hubble Space Telescope, recall the pattern at the center of a sunflower ESA/Hubble & NASA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Pluto image Four images from New Horizons Long Range Reconnaissance Imager (LORRI) were combined with colour data from the Ralph instrument to create this enhanced colour global view of Pluto Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Fresh Crater Near Sirenum Fossae Region of Mars The HiRISE camera aboard Nasa's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter acquired this closeup image of a "fresh" (on a geological scale, though quite old on a human scale) impact crater in the Sirenum Fossae region of Mars. This impact crater appears relatively recent as it has a sharp rim and well-preserved ejecta Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Hubble Peers into the Most Crowded Place in the Milky Way This Nasa Hubble Space Telescope image presents the Arches Cluster, the densest known star cluster in the Milky Way NASA & ESA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space An Astronaut's View from Space Nasa astronaut Reid Wiseman tweeted this photo from the International Space Station on 2 September 2014 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Giant Landform on Mars On Mars, we can observe four classes of sandy landforms formed by the wind, or aeolian bedforms: ripples, transverse aeolian ridges, dunes, and what are called draa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Expedition 39 Landing A sokol suit helmet can be seen against the window of the Soyuz TMA-11M capsule shortly after the spacecraft landed with Expedition 39 Commander Koichi Wakata of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Soyuz Commander Mikhail Tyurin of Roscosmos, and Flight Engineer Rick Mastracchio of NASA near the town of Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan (NASA/Bill Ingalls) Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Jupiter's Great Red Spot Viewed by Voyager I Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system and perhaps the most majestic. Vibrant bands of clouds carried by winds that can exceed 400 mph continuously circle the planet's atmosphere Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Chandra Observatory Sees a Heart in the Darkness This Chandra X-Ray Observatory image of the young star cluster NGC 346 highlights a heart-shaped cloud of 8 million-degree Celsius gas in the central region At the end of August, both Roscosmos and Nasa scrambled to fix the leak that had been found inside the space station. The hole meant that air from inside the lab was leaking out into space, and potentially threatening the safety of those on board. Recommended Nasa working to contain small leak on International Space Station The hole has now been fixed by the crew. But the entire episode remains completely mysterious, as both space agencies scramble to find out how the apparently drilled hole could have been made in the outside of the space station. Nasa has refused to announce any of the findings of those investigations so far. But it released the statement after reports in Russia that the hole had been drilled on purpose, since it was not a "manufacturing defect". "Russian media recently reported that General Director Rogozin said the hole was not a manufacturing defect. Ruling out a manufacturing defect indicates that this is an isolated issue which does not categorically affect future production," it wrote. "This conclusion does not necessarily mean the hole was created intentionally or with mal-intent. NASA and Roscosmos are both investigating the incident to determine the cause. The International Space Station Program is tentatively planning a spacewalk in November to gather more information." Nasa also said that one of its astronauts as well as Russian Cosmonaut will be heading to the International Space Station in October. During that launch, Nasa's Administrator Jim Bridenstine will speak with Mr Rogozin, in their first in-person meeting, during which the leak will presumably be discussed. Some of the oldest human remains ever found in Italy have provided fresh insight into the evolution of humans in Europe. A handful of teeth dated to around 450,000 years ago were examined by scientists and found to bear a striking resemblance to those of Neanderthals. The discovery places an ancestral form of Neanderthals very early in human history, and suggests that Europe may have been home to several distinct groups of humans. Recommended Remains of hybrid human girl discovered in Siberian cave Neanderthals are more frequently found in more recent periods around 100,000 to 40,000 years ago, Dr Clement Zanolli of Paul Sabatier University told The Independent. The Neanderthal lineage before that is not really well known The strongest evidence of early Neanderthal ancestors in Europe before this was another collection of teeth discovered in Spain. Virtual rendering of the teeth from the Italian sites of Visogliano and Fontana Ranuccio (Zanolli et al., 2018) Combined with the new discoveries from Italy, these specimens suggest the presence of a species referred to as Homo antecessor that ultimately gave rise to later, more well-known forms. However, they also hint at a far more diverse picture of Europe during this period, when much of the continent was completely covered by ice. The Italian teeth are distinct from any others found across the Eurasian landmass at this time, suggesting various human lineages were found across the region. Remains of a hybrid human girl with a Neanderthal mother have been discovered in Siberian cave All of these specimen could belong to a general group that we could say is ancestral to Neanderthals, but it could be that because of climatic constraints these groups were isolated, explained Dr Zanolli. This isolation could in turn have given rise to different forms as these early humans evolved separately after being separated by the difficult conditions. Recommended Discovery of cave paintings reveals Neanderthals were artists Life was probably very harsh, and it is very surprising that they could venture even this far north, said Dr Zanolli. The results, published in the journal PLOS ONE, emphasise the importance of teeth as a way of understanding our earliest ancestors. According to Dr Zanolli, the genetics of teeth and particularly the resulting shape of their dentine tissue is key to distinguishing different species of humans. In their study, the team used high resolution virtual imaging techniques to zoom in on these tiny microstructures and look for distinctive features. Close Westminster attack: Pc Keith Palmer's death ruled as 'preventable' Shortcomings in security outside the Houses of Parliament contributed to the death of a police officer during the Westminster attack, a coroner has concluded. Judge Mark Lucraft QC, the Chief Coroner of England and Wales, said the Metropolitan Police had allowed the entrance PC Keith Palmer was guarding to be neglected by roving armed officers. PC Palmer's widow said he was "left to die", adding: "How could Keith have been left alone, unarmed, guarding an open gate at one of the most iconic buildings in the world and one of the countrys top terrorist targets? Judge Lucraft is to draw up a prevention of future deaths report that will contain recommendations for the Metropolitan Police and parliamentary security officials. Please allow a moment for the live blog to load. Masood, 52, drove into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge on March 22 last year, killing American tourist Kurt Cochran, 54, retired window cleaner Leslie Rhodes, 75, Aysha Frade, 44, and Romanian tourist Andreea Cristea, 31. Their relatives expressed hope that "lessons had been learned" from the gruelling three-week inquests. Delivering his conclusions at the Old Bailey, Judge Lucraft said the two armed officers assigned to the area had not been near Carriage Gates for almost an hour before Khalid Masood struck because they were unaware of official guidance. They had been some distance away and out of view of the entrance because they had understood their duty to involve a roving patrol around the yard, Judge Lucraft said. Due to shortcomings in the security system at New Palace Yard, including the supervision of those engaged in such duties, the armed officers were not aware of a requirement to remain in close proximity to the gates. Had they been stationed there, it is possible that they may have been able to prevent PC Palmer suffering fatal injuries. In pictures: Westminster attack Show all 9 1 /9 In pictures: Westminster attack In pictures: Westminster attack An air ambulance lands after gunfire sounds were heard close to the Palace of Westminster in London PA wire In pictures: Westminster attack MPs wait until the situation is under control in Westminster. 'The alleged assailant was shot by armed police,' David Lidington, leader of the House of Commons, told the house. BBC News In pictures: Westminster attack Crowds gather in Westminster after shooting incident, which police are treating as terror attack BBC News In pictures: Westminster attack Police were also called to an incident on Westminster Bridge nearby AP In pictures: Westminster attack Early reports indicate the car, which mounted the pavement on Westminster Bridge and mowed into around a dozen people, was the same vehicle which then rammed into the railings of the Palace of Westminster, just around the corner Reuters In pictures: Westminster attack Security sources described the suspected assailant as a middle-aged Asian man, who is understood to have left the car before attacking a police officer with a seven-to-eight inch knife PA wire In pictures: Westminster attack Police have asked people to avoid the immediate area to allow emergency services to deal with the ongoing incident AP In pictures: Westminster attack One woman has died and a number of others, including the police officer, have been hurt, according to a junior doctor at St Thomas' Hospital Reuters In pictures: Westminster attack At least three gun shots were heard by those inside Westminster, and proceedings in the House of Commons have been suspended AP PC Palmer's widow said her husband had been left to die by security failings and accused authorities of letting lax security continue at the Houses of Parliament for years. In his closing argument, Gareth Patterson QC, for families of victims on the bridge, urged the coroner to make a report on the circumstances of the case to protect the public. On the role of MI5, whose knowledge of Masood has been heavily scrutinised, he said: We do think there is room for improvement in terms of decision-making. He suggested security services should look again at when to investigate suspects and when to stop, and to take account of violent backgrounds. Mr Patterson also called for the Government to try again with tightening rules for hiring cars. Dominic Adamson, representing PC Palmer's widow Michelle, said that there was a systematic failure in protecting unarmed officers on guard at the Palace of Westminster. Shortcomings in security outside the Houses of Parliament contributed to the death of a police officer during the Westminster attack, a coroner has concluded. Judge Mark Lucraft QC, chief coroner of England and Wales, said the Metropolitan Police had allowed the entrance PC Keith Palmer was guarding to be neglected by roving armed officers. Delivering his conclusions at the Old Bailey, he said the two armed officers assigned to the area had not been near Carriage Gates for almost an hour before Khalid Masood struck because they were unaware of official guidance. They had been some distance away and out of view of the entrance because they had understood their duty to involve a roving patrol around the yard, Judge Lucraft said. Due to shortcomings in the security system at New Palace Yard, including the supervision of those engaged in such duties, the armed officers were not aware of a requirement to remain in close proximity to the gates. Had they been stationed there, it is possible that they may have been able to prevent PC Palmer suffering fatal injuries. Judge Lucraft is to draw up a prevention of future deaths report that will contain recommendations for the Metropolitan Police and parliamentary security officials. PC Palmers widow said her husband had been left to die by security failings and accused authorities of letting lax security continue at the Houses of Parliament for years. Keith Palmer with a US tourist 45 minutes before his death (Facebook) How could Keith have been left alone, unarmed, guarding an open gate at one of the most iconic buildings in the world and one of the countrys top terrorist targets? Michelle Palmer said in a statement. He was left at a vulnerable location with no protection, to die. The fact there were no firearms officers there for nearly an hour is hard to believe. I truly believe that if they had been there he would still be here today and Amy wouldnt have lost her daddy. Senior officers blamed the two officers on patrol during the attack for not checking updated guidance, but the inquest heard that other armed officers were unaware and that patrol practices had not been properly monitored. Nobody wants to take responsibility for leaving one of their own officers there unprotected when they knew that police officers were at risk of attack at this vulnerable location, Ms Palmer said. They let Keith down by failing to protect him and let us down by failing to investigate his death properly. Now we have to live with the consequences of their failure. She remembered her husband a cheeky and funny man who was the best daddy to their daughter, adding: There isnt a day that goes by when I dont think about and miss him with all my heart. PC Palmers other relatives, including his sisters, said the coroner should have gone further over failings by the Metropolitan Police. We fought hard to try and get answers to the many questions which have arisen through this process, they added. Unfortunately there are many which are still unanswered. A lawyer representing Britains largest police force had argued that having armed officers on Carriage Gates may not have saved PC Palmer. PC Palmers funeral in London in April last year (Reuters) Hugo Keith claimed that they would have run towards the site where Masood crashed his car, amid initial reports of an explosion, and that shooting at the terrorist as he ran at speed through members of the public may have been unsafe. But after the inquests concluded, assistant commissioner Neil Basu, the head of national counterterror policing said Scotland Yard unreservedly accepted the coroners conclusions. Even the possibility that the Met lost the chance to prevent the murder of a brave and courageous officer is unacceptable. For the loss of that possibility to protect him from Masood, we are deeply sorry, he added. Mr Basu said: Security arrangements have been substantially changed since the terrible events of 22 March 2017. However, everything we can possibly do to improve the position further and we await the chief coroners detailed conclusions will be done. My thoughts are with PC Palmers family who lost a husband, father, brother and son in shocking and tragic circumstances when Khalid Masood carried out his murderous actions. What is also clear, however, is that PC Palmer acted with tremendous bravery and heroism [which] will never be forgotten. Masood was shot 82 seconds after starting his attack on 22 March 2017, which was the first atrocity claimed by Isis in the UK. He ploughed a hired car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, killing American tourist Kurt Cochran, 54, retired window cleaner Leslie Rhodes, 75, mother Aysha Frade, 44, and Romanian tourist Andreea Cristea, 31. Masood then crashed into railings surrounding the Houses of Parliament and ran towards Carriage Gates armed with two knives. Witnesses told how he immediately started stabbing PC Palmer, the first police officer he came across, with ferocious force. The attack stopped when Masood was shot by plain-clothed close-protection officers, who ran towards the scene with handguns drawn and ordered him to drop his weapons. Defence minister Tobias Ellwood was among those trying to help PC Palmer before air ambulance doctors arrived. They performed open chest surgery but he died of catastrophic stab wounds at the scene. The inquests heard that the terrorist threat level to police officers was raised to severe in 2015 and unarmed staff were allowed to stop wearing high-visibility jackets, while patrol patterns around Parliament were changed. Terrorist Khalid Masood shot after stabbing PC Palmer (PA) A series of emails in February 2015 revealed that a senior Metropolitan Police officer wrote to the chief inspector of operations at Westminster noting his concerns over the position of firearm officers. Further emails revealed that those in charge didnt really know what the deployment plan was and there was often confusion among officers about where they were supposed to be stationed. Two authorised firearms officers (AFOs) on duty during the attack said they had never seen instructions issued telling them to be in close proximity to the gates when they were open. Constables Lee Ashby and Nicholas Sanders told the inquest that they believed they were required to patrol a wider area in New Palace Yard along with all of the other places of threat in that sector. Cross-examining, Commander Adrian Usher, who leads policing at the Palace of Westminster, a lawyer representing Ms Palmer accused the force of passing the buck to blame the officers for not complying with orders. The Metropolitan Police has failed to identify the fact that its armed officers were not doing what they were supposed to do, Dominic Adamson added. Commander Usher admitted he did not know how many armed officers had misinterpreted the patrol instructions, but said 83 per cent had at least accessed the computer system where they were stored. The inquests heard that the move from fixed posts for armed officers outside parliament to roving patrols earlier in 2017 then made the gates materially more vulnerable. In pictures: Westminster attack Show all 9 1 /9 In pictures: Westminster attack In pictures: Westminster attack An air ambulance lands after gunfire sounds were heard close to the Palace of Westminster in London PA wire In pictures: Westminster attack MPs wait until the situation is under control in Westminster. 'The alleged assailant was shot by armed police,' David Lidington, leader of the House of Commons, told the house. BBC News In pictures: Westminster attack Crowds gather in Westminster after shooting incident, which police are treating as terror attack BBC News In pictures: Westminster attack Police were also called to an incident on Westminster Bridge nearby AP In pictures: Westminster attack Early reports indicate the car, which mounted the pavement on Westminster Bridge and mowed into around a dozen people, was the same vehicle which then rammed into the railings of the Palace of Westminster, just around the corner Reuters In pictures: Westminster attack Security sources described the suspected assailant as a middle-aged Asian man, who is understood to have left the car before attacking a police officer with a seven-to-eight inch knife PA wire In pictures: Westminster attack Police have asked people to avoid the immediate area to allow emergency services to deal with the ongoing incident AP In pictures: Westminster attack One woman has died and a number of others, including the police officer, have been hurt, according to a junior doctor at St Thomas' Hospital Reuters In pictures: Westminster attack At least three gun shots were heard by those inside Westminster, and proceedings in the House of Commons have been suspended AP The coroner also looked into the body armour worn by PC Palmer, and was told that although it protected much of his chest, no armour on the market would have shielded the underarm area where the fatal knife wound was inflicted. Ken Marsh, chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation, said all officers involved acted with the utmost professionalism in unprecedented circumstances when confronted by unimaginable evil. This bravery must be supported by appropriate numbers of police officers who have the correct training, equipment and back-up when required, Mr Marsh added. We will be working with the force to ensure the lessons are learned from this tragedy. Relatives of the four victims killed on Westminster Bridge questioned why barriers were not installed along the pavement following Isis vehicle attacks in France and Germany, but officials said there was no intelligence that bridges could become a target. A review of MI5 investigations into Masood found that they did not consider him a threat, although he had appeared as a contact of extremists and subjects of interest dating back to 2004. The 52-year-olds wife and mother claimed that, despite his rants about Isis and warning that he would be called a terrorist, they did not believe him capable of the attack. Ms Frades husband, John Frade, expressed hope that lessons will be learned to prevent other families from being in this situation. Although these proceedings can never bring Aysha back, we are here to make sure that the only ones that should be remembered as a result of this atrocity are Aysha and the other victims, she added. Aysha will be forever our guiding light and our family will never be the same without her. A separate inquest will be held into Masoods death. The government broke the law in its treatment of child refugees who were rejected under the Dubs scheme, the Court of Appeal has ruled. A judge ruled on Wednesday morning that unaccompanied child refugees in Calais who were refused entry to Britain under the Dubs Amendment were given patently inadequate reasons for the rejection of their applications. But the court upheld the governments decision to cap the number of unaccompanied child refugees who can be brought into the UK at 480. Charity Help Refugees argued that children being considered for relocation had been denied their fundamental rights, as they were given no written decisions and no detailed reasons for the grounds of their refusal. As a result, there was no review mechanism by which they could challenge decisions they believed were wrong, and accessing the courts of England and Wales was made effectively impossible for lone refugee children. At an earlier stage in court proceedings, the Home Office argued that it could not give each child reasons for their refusal because this would take too long. But evidence emerged in the Court of Appeal that the Home Office had internally decided not to convey fuller reasons for fear that children refused would bring legal challenges. The decision opens the way for children refused entry to bring individual challenges about the way their applications were handled. Help Refugees also argued that the Home Office had adopted a seriously defective process to measure the capacity of councils to take in child refugees, after it emerged many local authorities were not properly consulted. Responding to the ruling, Lord Alf Dubs, who was a child refugee himself, said following the ruling that every unaccompanied child who was turned away deserved an explanation and a chance to appeal the decision. The decision gives some hope to thousands of vulnerable child refugees in Europe, he said. Recommended UK refused entry to 130 child refugees due to administrative mistake Shadow home secretary Diane Abbott said that by refusing to implement the Dubs amendment, the Tories had cruelly failed to meet their moral and legal obligations to vulnerable child refugees. Josie Naughton, chief executive and co-founder of Help Refugees, said: Todays judgement rightly forces the government to recognise that every child considered for transfer under the Dubs scheme and refused must be given reasons. For two years, vulnerable children have been rejected without any real explanation. Children who received these decisions are now missing; for them it is too late. These spaces, that still remain unfilled, could have saved their lives. Instead, children have been left in mental anguish, at risk of exploitation and abuse. Rosa Curling, solicitor from Leigh Day, added: We are pleased that the Court of Appeal has ruled that unaccompanied refugee children must given reasons if refused transfer to the UK under the Dubs Amendment. These are potentially life-altering decisions for a particularly vulnerable group of children. It is essential that children know why they are refused and have the possibility effectively to challenge decisions they believe to be unlawful. The Dubs amendment, passed in May 2016, required the government to act as soon as possible to relocate and support unaccompanied refugee children in Europe. The initial number was set at 350, but following investigations by Help Refugees legal team, the Home Office was compelled to admit that 130 places had been overlooked and the specified number was increased to 480. Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis Show all 7 1 /7 Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis The Solidarity With Refugees group said Saturdays protest aimed to show our Government and the world that Britain is ready to welcome more refugees. Rex Features Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis People march through central London as they take part in a protest rally organised by Solidarity with Refugees in a bid to urge the Government to take more action on the migrant crisis Press Association Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis The protest comes days before world leaders meet to discuss crisis at UN General Assembly Press Association Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis Demonstrators made their way from Park Lane to Parliament Square in London on Saturday afternoon Press Association Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis Marchers chanted refugees are welcome here and waved banners reading no-one is illegal and lets help people Press Association Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis The march was supported by charities and groups including the Red Cross, Asylum Aid, Save the Children, Hope Not Hate, Oxfam and the UN Refugee Agency Rex Features Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis In the wake of Alans death, David Cameron pledged to resettle 20,000 Syrian refugees in the UK over the coming five years but there have been additional calls to re-home those who have already reached Europe, as well as asylum seekers coming from other conflict zones such as Iraq and Afghanistan Rex Features The Help Refugees litigation also compelled the Home Office to consent to a declaration that the specified number of children to be transferred under the Dubs Amendment was exclusive of any children transferred under the UKs pre-existing EU law obligations (the Dublin III Regulation). It comes after The Independent reported that some youngsters relocated to Britain under Dubs had been counted towards the capped total despite already having the right to be in the country under family reunification laws. A Home Office spokesperson said: This judgment confirms that the Governments consultation with local authorities, in which they said they could provide 480 places for eligible children from Europe, was lawful. We continue to accept further referrals and transfers are ongoing. We will continue to work closely with participating states, local authorities and other partners to relocate eligible children here quickly and safely. A woman who survived the Grenfell Tower blaze has said she is haunted by guilt over not being able to save more of her neighbours. Maria De Fatima Alves who lived on the 13th floor of the high-rise with her husband, Miguel, and their two children told the inquiry into the blaze that residents trapped in the burning building were shouting and screaming, waving mops and T-shirts to attract attention. Wednesday saw the beginning of a gruelling month of accounts from those who survived the blaze and were bereaved by it. Other members of the north Kensington community will also give evidence to the probe, which is sitting at Holborn Bars. The inquiry also heard from 10th floor resident Antonio Roncolato on Wednesday about a litany of fire safety concerns that residents had raised with the authorities in the months before the blaze, Ms Alves told the probe she and her husband left their home to drop off relatives who were staying at a hotel, at about 12.20am on the night of the fire on 14 June last year. On their return to the building, they discovered smoke in the fourth floor hallway. Mr Alves decided he would go and get their children from their flat, while Ms Alves went to collect his phone, which he had accidentally left in their car. When Ms Alves got outside, she was instructed by a firefighter to tell her family to stay inside the flat and close all the windows and doors. But she failed to deliver the message because the buildings intercom did not seem to be working. Mr Alves and their children, Tiago and Ines, later managed to flee the building. The family went to a friends house at nearby Bramley House, which overlooks the west side of the tower, watching the flames from the balcony. To see people screaming outside the windows and knowing we were in the same area but that we couldnt do anything to save them was so traumatic, Ms Alves said. I tried to focus on my prayers. I still think about what I couldve done more. I often wonder if I had stayed at the tower and buzzed people to wake them up and get them out whether more lives could have been saved. This guilt haunts me. She described waiting for a miracle as she watched her bedroom be consumed by fire. The flames were coming from the east side. It was so upsetting to watch but I couldnt take my eyes off it, she said in her written statement. I had so many blessed things in the flat like blessed water, blessed olive oil and blessed candles. I thought there is no way they could go up in flames. They would stop the fire. I truly believed a miracle would happen. She went on: I stayed on the balcony fixated on the flames. I kept trying to think of something I could do to help but there wasnt anything. I felt guilty that we were all watching from our safe house while there were still people suffering in the tower. Ms Alves and her husband made a number of calls to residents who were in the building, urging them to leave. She called her adopted son Joao, telling him how he did not need to panic but to come downstairs quickly. Her husband phoned his friend, Marcio Gomes, who said firefighters had told him to stay inside, she said. We could see the fire approaching their flat so Miguel was shouting down the phone saying If you dont leave now you are all going to die! I was kneeling down on the balcony praying for the Gomes family. The inquiry previously heard how the Gomess made a desperate escape bid to escape the 21st floor where they lived. Although they made it out alive, their baby son was stillborn soon after their escape. At the end of questioning, the inquirys lead lawyer, Richard Millett QC, asked Ms Alves if there was anything she would like to add. She said quietly: Peoples lives could have been saved if they were evacuated. Mr Roncolato, a 58-year-old former Grenfell Tower resident, earlier told the inquiry he was concerned about a number of fire safety risk in the period before the blaze. After new windows were fitted during the refurbishment, which finished in 2016, Mr Roncolato had an issue with a draught coming in through the windows even when they were closed, he said in a written statement submitted to the probe. There was a gap between the window ledge and the wall in his kitchen, which he contacted the contractor, Rydon, about, he said, but resorted to fixing it himself with plastic filler because I couldnt wait. Other residents had also complained draughts coming from the vents at the tops of the window, he said. Mr Roncolato told the probe a concierge service had been in place at Grenfell Tower since 1991, he said, but it was scrapped during the 2016 refurbishment. Residents petitioned the council landlord, the tenant management organisation (TMO), to reinstate the concierge, Mr Roncolato said. I believe it came to nothing because the fire came, he added. Residents were also unhappy about plans to move gas boilers into the buildings corridors as part of the refurbishment, since they were concerned they were a fire risk, he said. They had meeting meetings with TMO about the issue, but representatives were very resistant to coming to them, according to Mr Roncolato. Although the TMO finally allowed to reinstate the boilers in some flats, for those residents who did not speak up, they were bullied into having the new boiler installed in the hallway by the front door. His 10th floor flat was fitted with a new front door about five to six years before the fire, he told the probe, which was very heavy and difficult to open. After I called the TMO to repair this, they removed the mechanism so it would stay open, unless you physically closed it, he said. Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Show all 18 1 /18 Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Kitchen in flat 16 where the fire started Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began The kitchen from flat 16 ReutersGrenfell Tower Inquiry/Reuters Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began The kitchen from flat 16 PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Hallway in flat 16, leading to the kitchen where the fire started Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began The kitchen from flat 16 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began The kitchen from flat 16 PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Bedroom in flat 16 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Living room in flat 16 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Toilet in flat 16 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Living room in flat 16 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Bedroom 2 of flat 16 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/Reuters Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Bedroom in flat 16 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Bedroom 2 of flat 16 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/Reuters Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began The kitchen from flat 16 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Kitchen in flat 16 where the fire started Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Door to flat 16 from the lobby on floor 4 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Living room in flat 16 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA Grenfell Tower Inquiry: photos of inside the flat where fire began Hallway in flat 16 Grenfell Tower Inquiry/PA After they did this, It also felt a lot lighter, he said. I had no further issues with the front door after this time. Asked whether he had been given fire safety advice about these doors, he said: No. It emerged following the inferno that the glazed, composite fire doors fitting in Grenfell Tower, which were designed to withstand flames for 30 minutes, failed after about 15 minutes during the blaze. Mr Roncolato said in his written statement that he only became aware of the fire on the night of the blaze when he was woken by a phone call from his son. He heard noise coming from outside that sounded like people screaming. At first, I thought someone was having a party in the building opposite as this has happened before, but then I realised people were screaming get out and I could hear sirens, he said. Smoke started to spew into the flat through gaps around the windows that smelled like burning rubbish and used wet towels to try to stem the flow, he told the inquiry. He could see there was fire above him and noticed flames crawling down the left side of Christophers bedroom window, he said. He tried to leave the building on multiple occasions, but was stopped by the thick black smoke outside his front door. To me that was a killer, he said. Mr Roncolato called the night manager at the hotel where he worked to tell him he was trapped in his flat and would not be able to come to work. The manager replied that he should get the hell out of there. As he was waiting to be rescued, he said he decided to eat the porridge that I had prepared for breakfast as I waited to be rescued. This was to keep my energy levels up, so I would be ready when the time came to leave. I kept thinking if I remained calm and acted rationally that I would come out of this alive. I was constantly checking round the flat for any signs of fire or smoke. Mr Roncolato was one of the last people to be rescued from fire, emerging from the high-rise shortly after 6am. Brexit could still be stopped if warring Tories dont stop fighting over the withdrawal plan, Theresa May has said for the first time. If we all go off in different directions, in pursuit of our own visions of the perfect Brexit, we risk ending up with no Brexit at all, she told the party conference. The warning came after the latest bout of Conservative infighting, which saw Boris Johnson pack out a fringe meeting as he again demanded the prime minister chuck Chequers. Strikingly, Ms May chose to dedicate a chunk of her speech to acknowledging the growing campaign for a fresh referendum on the exit terms. The Independent has launched its Final Say campaign, to give the British people the crucial decision on any Brexit deal, which is supported by almost 850,000 people who have signed our petition. The prime minister mounted a strong defence of her Chequers plan, but did not describe it by that name an apparent admission of its unpopularity among Tory MPs and activists. She also made no reference to EU leaders rejecting it outright, at the recent Salzburg summit, other than acknowledging it was very challenging for the EU. Instead, Ms May raised the spectre of Labour exploiting Conservative divisions to force either a general election or a further referendum. Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Show all 14 1 /14 Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Internal divisions in the Conservative Party have exploded into a bitter public row over Boris Johnsons disgusting criticism of Theresa May. Some senior Tories furiously denounced the former foreign secretary after he accused the prime minister of having wrapped a suicide vest around Britain Reuters Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Sajid Javid, Home secretary Sajid Javid, the home secretary, rebuked his former cabinet colleague and said: I think there are much better ways to articulate your differences. He told the BBCs Andrew Marr Show that the public wanted politicians to use measured language BBC/PA Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide But other MPs leapt to Mr Johnsons defence, as dividing lines ahead of a possible leadership contest begin to take shape. The Uxbridge MP has repeatedly criticised Ms Mays Chequers plan and used a newspaper article on Sunday to suggest it amounted to wrapping a suicide vest around the British constitution. His latest salvo at the prime minister prompted immediate condemnation, with one minister publicly vowing to end Mr Johnsons career over the matter PA Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Alan Duncan, Foreign minister Alan Duncan, a foreign minister who worked in Mr Johnsons team for two years, wrote on Twitter: For Boris to say the PMs view is like that of a suicide bomber is too much. This marks one of the most disgusting moments in modern British politics. Im sorry, but this is the political end of Boris Johnson. If it isnt now, I will make sure it is later. Getty Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide James Brokenshire, Housing secretary Housing secretary James Brokenshire added his voice to the criticism, calling Mr Johnsons comments wrong He said: I think he is wrong on this...I think the tone that he has used isnt right and I think that we just need to be very focused on actually moving forward with the Chequers plan. AFP/Getty Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Zac Goldsmith But as Tory hostilities spilled over into open public warfare, Richmond Park MP Zac Goldsmith, an ally of Mr Johnson, hit back at Mr Duncan. He wrote: There are a number of possible motives behind this tweet, but given its author, we can be certain principles arent one of them. Getty Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Jacob Rees-Mogg Senior Tory Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg told The Independent he thought Mr Johnsons suicide belt accusation was little more than a characteristically colourful catchphrase. He added: I agree with the sentiment. The criticism of Boriss wording merely serves to highlight his point. It means more people hear of Boriss criticism of Chequers and many will agree with him. Reuters Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Nadine Dorries Nadine Dorries, another Brexit supporter, said Mr Johnsons opponents were terrified of his popular appeal, adding: Dont underestimate the vitriol thatll be directed towards Boris today. He delivered the Leave vote, Remainers and wannabe future PMs hate him. If Mr Johnson became leader and prime minister he would deliver a clean and prosperous Brexit, she said Rex Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Andrew Bridgen Andrew Bridgen said Ms May was to blame for her leadership problems. Asked if Mr Johnson had put a bomb under her leadership, Mr Bridgen said: I think that Theresa May did that herself when she put forward the Chequers proposals without consulting widely prior to that. Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Steve Baker, former Brexit minister Steve Baker, the former Brexit minister, warned Ms May the Conservatives faced a "catastrophic split" if she did not jettison her Chequers plan. Mr Baker, who quit the government in July over the scheme, said: When negotiating, the prime minister needs to demonstrate her intent and also her power to deliver. "If we come out of conference with her hoping to get Chequers through on the back of Labour votes, I think the EU negotiators would probably understand that if that were done, the Tory party would suffer the catastrophic split which thus far we have managed to avoid. But he insisted he did not want a change in the Conservative leadership, saying Brexiteers did not want to be in a position of conflict with our own prime minister Reuters Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Tom Tugendhat The deep divisions on the Tory benches were laid bare as Tom Tugendhat, who chairs the Commons foreign affairs committee and is a possible leadership rival to Mr Johnson, also hit out at the former foreign secretary. Recalling how he encountered a suicide bomber in Afghanistan during his time in the army, Mr Tugendhat told Mr Johnson to grow up. He said: A suicide bomber murdered many in the courtyard of my office in Helmand. The carnage was disgusting, limbs and flesh hanging from trees and bushes. Brave men who stopped him killing me and others died in horrific pain. Some need to grow up. Comparing the PM to that isnt happy. PA Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Alistair Burt Alistair Burt, another Foreign Office minister who worked in Mr Johnsons team, said: Im stunned at the nature of this attack. There is no justification for such an outrageous, inappropriate and hurtful analogy. If we dont stop his extraordinary use of language over Brexit, our country might never heal. Again, I say, enough. AFP/Getty Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide It comes amid that Ms Mays former aides drew up a dossier on Mr Johnsons sexual encounters with the aim of undermining his leadership prospects. The document was compiled in 2016, when the Uxbridge and South Ruislip MP was seen as the main rival to Ms May in her bid to enter No 10. Downing Street and Conservative Campaign Headquaters (CCHQ) both denied having leaked the 4,000 word memo after it was circulated around Westminster AFP/Getty Boris Johnson 'suicide vest' Brexit jibe causes Tory divide Mr Johnson confirmed that his 25-year marriage to wife Marina had ended AP Even if we do not all agree on every part of this proposal, we need to come together - because its time we faced up to what is at risk, she said. We have a Labour party that, if they were in government, would accept any deal the EU chose to offer, regardless of how bad it is for the UK. But who also say theyll oppose any deal I choose to bring back, regardless of how good it is for the UK. And there are plenty of prominent people in British politics in parliament and out of it who want to stop Brexit in its tracks. The prime minister then condemned the idea of a Peoples Vote, saying: We had the peoples vote. The people voted to leave. A second referendum would be a politicians vote: politicians telling people they got it wrong the first time and should try again. Think for a moment what it would do to faith in our democracy if - having asked the people of this country to take this decision - politicians tried to overturn it. David Willetts, the former Conservative Cabinet minister and Peoples Vote supporter, said: The prime minister spent a long time taking about a People's Vote because she knows it is getting more likely by the day. If the only deal on offer is a bad one for the UK, it would be a mistake to insist that it is implemented without continuing popular consent. Asked what the prime minister meant by the risk of no Brexit at all, her spokesman pointed to the Labour party refusing to rule out a second referendum and advocating a general election. I think thats the reference she is making there, he said. The lesson of the last few months is that the Labour party is prepared to pull any number of parliamentary levers. Brexit negotiations have been frozen over the party conference season as neither side were sure what would happen Theresa May. Time is running short for the EU and UK make a deal; heres a timeline of the next steps as Britain heads towards the exit door. 17-18 October 2018 Last chance summit Theresa May arrives for a meeting with European Council (Reuters) The EU has described this meeting of EU leaders at the European Council in Brussels as the moment of truth for Brexit and says a deal should be basically completed by this point. The 27 other national leaders will put out a statement and decide what to do next. 18 November 2018 Very last chance summit? Workers prepare the EU headquarters for yet another summit (Reuters) The EU nations have said that if a deal looks possible in October but hasnt been finalised then they will arrange a special summit in November to finalise it. 13 December 2018 Very, very Last chance summit? Theresa May shakes hands with European Council President Donald Tusk (Reuters) Another meeting of the European Council is scheduled for December that could be the very, very last chance to sign a deal if the timeline slips. But the EU in particular wouldnt be happy. December? Or January? Or February? House of Commons vote on deal Protesters outside the Palace of Westminster (AFP/Getty) We dont know when the House of Commons will get to vote on the final deal, but if one is struck, then it will probably sometime in December, January, or February. This vote could be difficult for the Prime Minister as she could face rebellions by the DUP and Tory MPs. 21 January 2019 No-deal legal cut-off date The Prime Minister Theresa May at Downing Street (Getty) This is the very last cut-off date for a deal to be presented to Parliament under UK law. If no withdrawal agreement is presented to MPs by 21 January, they will get a vote on what should happen next. A second referendum? A bid for an extension? This all happens here. December? Or January? Or February? Or March? European Parliament vote on the deal The European Parliament's base in Strasbourg (EPA) The European Parliament will get a vote on the Brexit deal, too. The last date they can physically do so is during its sitting from 11-14 March, though it could happen before if an agreement is finalised earlier. 21-22 March 2019 Britain's goodbye meeting EU leaders attend a round table meeting (AP) The last European Council meeting that Britain will attend. Since it will be literally a week before the UK leaves it will probably be mostly a goodbye, as there wont be much time to do anything. 29 March 2019 Brexit Day Big Ben will bong Britain into Brexit Barring an extension, Britain will officially leave the European Union two years after Theresa May triggered Article 50 of the EUs treaty and set the country rolling towards the exit door. 31 December 2020 End of the transition period Barring a change of policy there will be new checks on vehicles once Britain leaves the customs union and single market (Reuters) Theresa May has negotiated a 21-month Brexit transition period under which the UK will continue to follow EU rules as if nothing has change. But at the end of 2020 this is set to end and Britain will be on its own. A Chinese state TV reporter who was arrested after allegedly slapping a man during an event at the Conservative Party Conference has been hailed as a hero by many in China. Kong Linlin, a nationalist reporter for China Central Television (CCTV), had earlier disrupted an event about political freedoms in the former British colony Hong Kong, and was eventually asked by delegates and MPs to leave. In an altercation afterwards which was caught on camera, Ms Kong was seen shouting and lashing out at Conservative Party activist Enoch Lieu. One of the speakers at the event, Benedict Rogers, said she had shouted abuse and lies, and that was why she was ejected. He wrote on Twitter: She was asked to leave because all she was doing was shouting abuse & lies, & then repeatedly hitting a young man who politely & calmly asked her to leave. We welcome questions & opinions; we dont welcome shouting, screaming, lying and assault. Its that simple. In the video Ms Kong can be heard saying: You are not democratic in the UK. I am a journalist here, and then shows her press accreditation badge. When she is restrained by another activist, she shouts: Let me go, adding, Oh how democratic UK, youre so proud of it. Mr Lieu said: The reporter continued her shouting and whilst I was trying to escort her out, she accused me of trying to silence her. Then I said, 'No miss you have to go.' All of a sudden, she slapped me in my face. The event was said to have focused on the impact of Chinas 2017 announcement that the joint declaration with Britain to return Hong Kong to China in 1997 which laid the blueprint for the citys future laws, was now merely a historical document and no longer valid. West Midlands Police were called to the scene and arrested Ms Kong and held her overnight on Sunday before she was released on Monday, while investigations remain underway. Recommended China bans US warship from docking in Hong Kong amid rising tensions While some independent Hong Kong media have speculated Ms Kongs actions may have been a stunt to further her career, large numbers of Chinese social media users have since rallied to defend and praise her actions. On Weibo, the Chinese equivalent of Twitter, thousands of supportive messages have been posted, describing her as a good journalist, and saying she was acting to defend the motherland from the threat of Hong Kong independence. Official media in China said Ms Kong suffered a lot of obstruction, and one alleged that she was assaulted. In addition, the Chinese embassy in the UK has demanded an apology. In a country that boasts freedom of speech, it is puzzling that the Chinese journalist should encounter obstruction in such a way and even assault at the fringe event when she simply raised a question and expressed her opinions. This is completely unacceptable," the embassy said in a statement. The Human Rights Committee of UK Conservative Party should stop interfering in Chinas internal affairs and stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs. The organiser of fringe event should apologise to the Chinese journalist. Close Theresa May declares 'austerity is over' after decade of cuts Theresa May has declared "austerity is over" in her keynote address to the Conservative conference, where she also warns splits over Brexit risked derailing Britain's departure from the EU. In what was one of the most important speeches of her political career, the prime minister borrowed Jeremy Corbyn's "for the many, not the few," slogan, declaring the Conservatives are a "party not for the few, not even the many, but for everyone who is willing to work hard and do their best." The prime minister strutted onto the stage to Abba's Dancing Queen - to mock herself grooving on a recent trip to Africa - and also included a self-deprecating joke about last year's disastrous conference address. Treasury minister Liz Truss has been branded innumerate or inept after falsely claiming that local councils are not facing cuts. Philip Hammonds deputy insisted the government was simply giving town halls more flexibility to raise money themselves, rather than slashing their funds. We are not making cuts to local authorities, Ms Truss told BBC Newsnight. Recommended Councils brace for biggest government cuts in nearly a decade In fact, the Local Government Association highlighted this week that funding will be reduced by 36 per cent next year, the largest annual deduction in almost a decade. And the organisations Conservative leader has warned that more councils will go bust unless ministers address the funding crisis. Andrew Gwynne, Labours local government spokesman, condemned Ms Trusss comments, saying: This shows shes either totally innumerate or completely inept. Councils of all political persuasions are edging towards the financial cliff edge, and its a Tory Council, Northamptonshire, thats the first to go bump on their watch, with others not far behind. Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Show all 6 1 /6 Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Phillip Hammond Chancellor Phillip Hammond said in an interview with the Mail that Boris has never been "a details man", won't be next Prime Minister and that his most notable policy achievement is the launching of Boris Bikes AFP/Getty Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris David Davis Speaking to Sophie Ridge on Sunday, former Brexit Secretary David Davis said "a lot of his ideas, I think, are good headlines but not necessarily good policies" PA Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Ruth Davidson Speaking on Sunday Politics, Leader of the Scottish Conservatives Ruth Davidson has said that Boris' use of language in attacking the Prime Minister's Chequers plan was "not wise" and urged for a "period of silence" PA Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Greg Clark Speaking at a fringe event at the conference, Business Secretary Greg Clark stated that Boris' idea to scrap HS2 and instead build a bridge to Northern Ireland was "completely the wrong approach" PA Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Lord Digby Jones Speaking on stage in Birmingham, crossbench peer Lord Digby Jones branded Boris as "irrelevant" and "offensive" for his comments on business PA Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris David Mundell Referring to Boris' recent 6-point Brexit plan, Scottish Secretary David Mundell stated that "these are things for headlines, not for the substance of negotiations" PA The facts are this: Over half the Government grant to councils has been slashed since 2010. This is forcing very real cuts to the vital local public services we all rely on. The analysis echoes that of Lord Porter, the Tory chairman of the LGA, who said, just four days ago: If the Conservative conference does not address the funding crisis in our local services, it will have been a waste of time More and more councils are struggling to balance their books, facing underspends and having to make in-year budget cuts This is damaging their ability to provide dignified care to our elderly and disabled, protect children, boost economic growth, fill potholes, build homes and much else If the government fails to fund local government adequately, there is a real risk to the viability of some services and some councils. However, in the interview, Ms Truss claimed: What we have done with local authorities is that they are able to raise much more money locally than they were before. And, asked about the cuts, she replied: We are not making cuts to local authorities. What we have done is give them more revenue raising powers so that decisions can be taken locally. Its really important that local councillors are responsible for the decisions they make. Theresa May has spoken of her pain at the death of her goddaughter from cancer as she unveiled a new blueprint to save 55,000 people from the disease over the next decade. In a rare personal speech, the prime minister became visibly emotional when she described the agony of "losing a loved one before their time" after her cousin's daughter passed away a few years ago. Ms May announced plans for a new cancer strategy to spare others such pain, including lowering the age for screening and building more rapid diagnostic centres. The comments came as part of her Tory conference speech, where she vowed to end austerity, to freeze fuel duty for the ninth year and to lift the cap on local authority borrowing to fund new housebuilding. Ms May said: "Cancer can strike any of us at any time. "A few years ago, my goddaughter was diagnosed with cancer. "She underwent treatment and it seemed to be working. But then the cancer came back. "Last summer, she sent me a text to tell me that she was hoping to see another Christmas. But she didn't make it." She also paid tribute to housing secretary James Brokenshire, who quit the cabinet earlier this year when he was diagnosed with lung cancer. He returned to the front bench only a matter of weeks after having part of his lung removed. She went on: "Half of us will be diagnosed with cancer. All of us know someone who has been. "Survival rates are increasing, but we are lagging behind other countries. "So today I can announce a new cancer strategy, funded through our 70th birthday investment, will form a central part of our long-term plan for the NHS." Early diagnosis is a key factor in improving cancer rates, as treatments are more effective and the disease is less likely to have spread. Five-year survival rates for bowel cancer are over 90% if caught early, but less than 10% if diagnosed late, while nine out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer in the earliest stage will survive more than five years. "Through our cancer strategy, we will increase the early detection rate from one-in-two today, to-three-in-four by 2028," said Ms May. "We will do it by lowering the age at which we screen for bowel cancer from 60 to 50, by investing in the very latest scanners, and by building more rapid diagnostic centres - one-stop shops that help people get treatment quicker." Ms May predicted that by 2028, 55,000 more people will be alive five years after their diagnosis compared with today She added: "Every life saved means precious extra years with friends and family. "Every life saved means a parent, a partner, a child, a godmother spared the pain of losing a loved one before their time." Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech Show all 12 1 /12 Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May dances as she takes to the stage to give her keynote address on the fourth and final day of the Conservative Party Conference at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham AFP/Getty Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech AFP/Getty Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech AFP/Getty Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech Getty Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech AFP/Getty Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech AFP/Getty Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech PA Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech AFP/Getty Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech AFP/Getty Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech PA Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech AFP/Getty Theresa May dancing on to stage before major conference speech Getty Cancer charities cautiously welcomed the proposals but highlighted the need for a "costed plan" to make sure there were enough doctors and nurses to realise the plans. Moira Fraser, Macmillan Cancer Support's director of policy, said: "An early diagnosis can make a radical difference to someone's survival chances, treatment options and quality of life, and ambitions set out by the Prime Minister today have real potential to improve, and even save, lives. "But to fulfil pledges like these tomorrow, we must address fundamental challenges in cancer care today, so that the health service is equipped for a growing population of people living with cancer and all that entails." Emma Greenwood, Cancer Research UK's director of policy and public affairs, said: "The scale of the challenge is substantial and must now be reflected in overnment action. "Significant investment in NHS staff who diagnose and treat cancer patients will be fundamental, as will continued research into new diagnostic tests." Beto ORourke said he's "ashamed" of comments he made about women in a 1991 student newspaper article, after someone who opposes his Texas senatorial campaign sent the story to Politico. The Democratic congressman expressed regret over the "demeaning and disrespectful" words he penned at age 19 while reviewing the Broadway musical "The Will Rogers Follies" for Columbia Universitys student newspaper, the Spectator. In his review, Mr ORourke criticised the show as "one of the most glaring examples of the sickening excesses and moral degradations of our culture," while criticising the casting of "perma-smile actresses whose only qualifications seem to be their phenomenally large breasts and tight buttocks." Mr ORourke, whose once-long shot senatorial campaign against Republican incumbent Ted Cruz has drawn national attention as the two appear to be in a tight race, denounced the comments in a statement after the story was published on Monday afternoon. "I am ashamed of what I wrote and I apologise. There is no excuse for making disrespectful and demeaning comments about women," he said. In its report, Politico acknowledged the column was flagged to the outlet "by a person who opposes ORourkes Senate campaign." Beto O'Rourke denounces killing of Botham Jean The review was the only article Mr ORourke appeared to have published with the student newspaper. No other accusations of inappropriate comments towards women have been levelled against the senate candidate, who has represented Texass 16th congressional district since 2013. Mr ORourke has thrown the reliably red senate seat in Texas into question in recent weeks, with several polls indicating he and Mr Cruz are in a statistical dead heat. Activists protest the death penalty in Texas Show all 6 1 /6 Activists protest the death penalty in Texas Activists protest the death penalty in Texas Family and friends of Jeff Wood and anti-death penalty activists march from the Texas State Capitol to the Office of Governor Greg Abbott to deliver a petition with over 10,000 signatures asking the governor and the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles to commute Wood's sentence on August 18, 2016 in Austin, Texas. Jeff Wood is scheduled to be executed by the state of Texas on August 24, 2016 under what is referred to as the "law of parties" for a criminal act he committed on January 2, 1996. The Texas law says that if a person, " acting with intent to promote or assist the commission of the offense, he solicits, encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid the other person to commit the offense;" then they are criminally responsible for the conduct of another, as well. Tamir Kalifa/AFP/Getty Images Activists protest the death penalty in Texas Carla Harvey adds her name to a petition with over 10,000 signatures asking Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles to commute Jeff Wood's sentence, during a demonstration outside of the Texas State Capitol on August 18, 2016 in Austin, Texas. Family and friends of Jeff Wood and anti-death penalty activists delivered the petition to the Office of the Governor after the demonstration. Jeff Wood is scheduled to be executed by the state of Texas on August 24, 2016 under what is referred to as the "law of parties" for a criminal act he committed on January 2, 1996. The Texas law says that if a person, " acting with intent to promote or assist the commission of the offense, he solicits, encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid the other person to commit the offense;" then they are criminally responsible for the conduct of another, as well. Tamir Kalifa/AFP/Getty Images Activists protest the death penalty in Texas A massive explosion guts Mexico's biggest fireworks market in Mexico City, on December 20, 2016. The explosion killed at least 31 people and injured 72, authorities said. The conflagration in the Mexico City suburb of Tultepec set off a quick-fire series of multicolored blasts that sent a vast cloud of smoke billowing over the capital. Tamir Kalifa/AFP/Getty Images Activists protest the death penalty in Texas Darius Broussard adds his name to a petition with over 10,000 signatures asking Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles to commute Jeff Wood's sentence, during a demonstration outside of the Texas State Capitol on August 18, 2016 in Austin, Texas. Family and friends of Jeff Wood and anti-death penalty activists delivered the petition to the Office of the Governor after the demonstration. Jeff Wood is scheduled to be executed by the state of Texas on August 24, 2016 under what is referred to as the "law of parties" for a criminal act he committed on January 2, 1996. The Texas law says that if a person, " acting with intent to promote or assist the commission of the offense, he solicits, encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid the other person to commit the offense;" then they are criminally responsible for the conduct of another, as well. Tamir Kalifa/AFP/Getty Images Activists protest the death penalty in Texas Family and friends of Jeff Wood and anti-death penalty activists march from the Texas State Capitol to the Office of Governor Greg Abbott to deliver a petition with over 10,000 signatures asking the governor and the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles to commute Wood's sentence on August 18, 2016 in Austin, Texas. Jeff Wood is scheduled to be executed by the state of Texas on August 24, 2016 under what is referred to as the "law of parties" for a criminal act he committed on January 2, 1996. The Texas law says that if a person, " acting with intent to promote or assist the commission of the offense, he solicits, encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid the other person to commit the offense;" then they are criminally responsible for the conduct of another, as well. Tamir Kalifa/AFP/Getty Images Activists protest the death penalty in Texas Mark Clements (L), who was imprisoned for 28 years before being released and exonerated, encourages passersby to sign a petition with over 10,000 signatures asking Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles to commute Jeff Wood's sentence, during a demonstration outside of the Texas State Capitol on August 18, 2016 in Austin, Texas. Clements joined family and friends of Jeff Wood and anti-death penalty activists to deliver the petition to the Office of the Governor after the demonstration. Jeff Wood is scheduled to be executed by the state of Texas on August 24, 2016 under what is referred to as the "law of parties" for a criminal act he committed on January 2, 1996. The Texas law says that if a person, " acting with intent to promote or assist the commission of the offense, he solicits, encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid the other person to commit the offense;" then they are criminally responsible for the conduct of another, as well. Tamir Kalifa/AFP/Getty Images Meanwhile, Five Thirty Eight's Nate Silver explained why he believes the Democrat "really has a chance" at taking the seat that's been occupied by Republicans for decades: "Cruz, on the other hand, shows signs of being a weak incumbent and ORourke shows signs of being a tough challenger," he wrote. For now, the Texas Democrat appears to be putting his controversial student newspaper review behind him, while launching a college campus speaking tour this week across the state. He's also scheduled to debate Mr Cruz again 16 October in San Antonio, after the two challenged each other last month on issues ranging from immigration to health care. Close Trump mocks Christine Blasey Ford at Mississippi rally Key Republicans are having their support for Brett Kavanaugh tested after Donald Trump mocked his Supreme Court nominees sexual assault accuser at a campaign rally in Mississippi. The president joked about Dr Ford's testimony to a laughing crowd on Wednesday, criticising her for failing to remember every detail from the night she alleges Mr Kavanaugh assaulted her during a high school party nearly 36 years ago. Meanwhile, the FBI has reportedly neared the conclusion of its probe into the embattled nominee ahead of the Senate Judiciary Committee deadline of Friday despite numerous potential witnesses indicating they have not yet spoken with investigators from the federal agency, including Dr Ford. Arizona Republican Jeff Flake, who forced the majority to take a one-week delay and allow for an FBI investigation into the sexual assault claims against Mr Kavanaugh, denounced the presidents comments in an interview with NBC. Follow along with The Independent as the rest of Capitol Hill reacts to the latest developments. National Security Advisor John Bolton has called Iran a 'rogue regime', shortly after the US announced it is terminating a 1955 treaty over calls to end sanctions that impact the import of humanitarian goods and products to the country. Mr Bolton, defending the policy decision announced on Wednesday by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, pushed back on comments from Iran's foreign minister earlier this week that the United States is bullying countries, in violation of international law, by asking that countries and companies discontinue trade and business with Iran. "Iran is a rogue regime, it has been a threat throughout the Middle East ... So I don't take what they say seriously at all," Mr Bolton said during a press conference in the White House. The United States terminated the 1955 treaty with Iran shortly after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled earlier in the day that the US must lift sanctions that limit the import of goods that are linked to the safety of civil aviation in Iran. The Iranians had said that the US sanctions violated the 1955 bilateral Treaty of Amity, which was signed at a time when the US and Iran enjoyed good relations. The treaty was written and signed in order to regulate and promote strong economic and diplomatic ties between the countries. Mr Pompeo, during a press conference, called the accusations that the US violated international law "meritless" and said that Iran was "attempting to interfere with the sovereign rights of the United States to take lawful actions necessary to protect our national security and abusing the ICJ for political and propaganda purposes". The ICJ had said in a preliminary decision that the United States must "remove, by means of its choosing, any impediments arising from" sanctions that limit the import of goods including medicine, medical devices, food, and agricultural commodities that are necessary for the safety of civil aviation. President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time Show all 12 1 /12 President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time President Hassan Rouhani speaks at the Iranian Parliament in the capital Tehran AFP/Getty President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time It was the first time Rouhani had been summoned by parliament in his five years in power EPA President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time Getty President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time MPs demanded answers on unemployment, rising prices and the collapsing value of the rial, which has lost more than half its value since April AFP/Getty President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time AFP/Getty President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time AFP/Getty President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time AFP/Getty President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time AFP/Getty Images President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time AFP/Getty President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time AFP/Getty President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time AFP/Getty Images President Rouhani summoned to Iran parliament for first time EPA The US, in response, had argued that the ICJ does not have authority to challenge its Iran sanctions because they are a matter of American national security. The ICJ has indicated that the US could challenge the Hague court's jurisdiction in the matter as the case goes forward. Mr Pompeo, during his announcement, said that the decision to toss the Treaty of Amity was long overdue, and suggested that the limited scope of the ICJ's ruling was actually a "defeat for Iran". "This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue," he said, implying that the United States should have walked away from the treaty after Iran's 1979 revolution. "The court denied Iran's attempt to secure broad measures to interfere with US sanctions and rightly noted Iran's history of non-compliance with its international obligations under the treaty of non-proliferation of nuclear weapons," Mr Pompeo said. Before the Wednesday decision, Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that President Donald Trump's threat to bring sanctions against European countries that do business with Iran was an "unprecedented" step, and said that the US president was being a "bully" in his pursuit of strict sanctions against his country. "The United States is asking countries to violate international law, and is telling countries and companies that if they observe the law they'll be punished," Mr Zarif told CBS in an interview at the United Nations General Assembly in New York last week. "This is probably unprecedented, even for a bully, in a town to go to the sheriff's office and tell them, 'If you try not to drop people you are going to be punished'". Mr Zarif has also suggested that the US was isolating itself from the international community as a result of its approach to Iran, and that Iran would continue to do business with European partners. "This policy is going to have a backlash. The international community is not going to accept somebody to come and just [give] orders," he said. "We will continue to work with the Europeans. Certainly some European companies have withdrawn from Iran because of the fear of punishment by the United States". Mr Trump announced in May that he planned on withdrawing the US from the Obama-era nuclear agreement with Iran, saying that the deal did not go far enough towards securing Middle East security even though international nuclear experts agreed that Iran had complied with its promise under the deal to halt its pursuit of nuclear weapons grade uranium. Mr Trump said that Iran's testing of ballistic missiles, and its alleged support for terrorist groups in the region, meant that a new deal with Iran was necessary for him to consent to continued sanctions relief. The US then reimposed sanctions on Iran. A volcano on the same Indonesian island as the earthquake-stricken city of Palu has erupted, prompting authorities to warn of volcanic ash and potential lava flows. Mount Soputan in north Sulawesi, about 360 miles northeast of Palu, spewed ash 6,000 metres into the sky on Wednesday at 8.47am local time. Officials raised the countrys four-level volcano alert system from two to three, advising locals to stay away from the mountain and to have masks available in the event of ashfall. No evacuations were immediately ordered. Planes were warned of ash clouds because volcanic ash is hazardous for plane engines. Soputan is on the northern part of Sulawesi island, where a central region was severely damaged by an earthquake and tsunami on Friday. At least 1,347 died in the disaster, though the death toll is expected to rise sharply. A government volcanologist suspects the eruption was triggered by the 7.5 magnitude earthquake. Drone footage shows devastation following Indonesia tsunami It could be that this earthquake triggered the eruption, but the direct correlation has yet to be seen as there had been an increase in the Mount Soputan activity, the volcanologist, Kasbani, told online news portal Tempo. Kasbani, who uses one name and leads the Vulcanology and Geology Disaster Mitigation agency, said volcanic activity had been increasing at Soputan since August and began surging on Monday. Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Show all 30 1 /30 Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Residents and rescuers walk in front of a washed out passenger ferry in Wani following the September 28 earthquake and tsunami. Aid poured into disaster-ravaged Palu after days of delays as efforts ramped up to reach 200,000 people in desperate need AFP/Getty Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Indonesian rescuers try to free a 15-year-old earthquake survivor, Nurul Istikhomah from the flooded ruins of a collapsed house in Palu EPA Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue A rescue team searches for bodies under the ruin of a house in Balaroa EPA Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue A ship stranded on the shore EPA Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Indonesians stand among debris at Mamboro village in Palu EPA Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Residents carry a victim AFP/Getty Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Residents trying to salvage belongings from their homes which collapsed AFP/Getty Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Indonesian soldiers bury quake victims in a mass grave in Poboya AFP/Getty Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue A damaged mosque AFP/Getty Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue A man sits on the rubble of a house AFP/Getty Images Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Rescuers walk past debris AFP/Getty Images Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Jumadil, 5, reacts at seeing his mother Susi Rahmatia, 26, after he went missing for seven days AFP/Getty Images Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue A woman builds a temporary toilet AFP/Getty Images Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Rahmat Raidi, 26, shows portraits of his missing family members AFP/Getty Images Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Residents queue before receiving humanitarian aid in Palu AFP/Getty Images Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Indonesian villagers offload aid from a military helicopter in Proo village, Lindu district AFP/Getty Images Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Residents stand among houses destroyed by a landslide that was triggered by the earthquake in Petobo outside Palu EPA Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue People queue for fuel at a petrol station in Palu Reuters Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Members of the Indonesian Red Cross attend to a victim at a crushed house at Talise beach in Palu EPA Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Residents walk among houses destroyed by a landslide that was triggered by the earthquake in Petobo, outside Palu EPA Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue An Indonesian Police Officer uses a dog to search for victims amongst rubble in Petobo, outside Palu Reuters Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue An Indonesian rescue team searches for victims and survivors amongst the rubble of the Roa Roa hotel in Palu Reuters Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue A crowd gathers at the airport in Palu in the hope of fleeing by plane Getty Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Members of an Indonesian rescue team look for survivors in a collapsed home in Palu AFP/Getty Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Bhayangkara hospital in Palu Reuters Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Members of an Indonesian rescue team look for survivors in a collapsed home in Palu AFP/Getty Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue An earthquake damaged bridge in Palu Reuters Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue People drive amongst the damage in Palu Reuters Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Indonesian women stand on a tsunami devastated area of Talise beach Palu EPA Indonesian earthquake: rescue efforts continue Members of an Indonesian rescue team look for survivors in a collapsed home in Palu AFP/Getty It is possible that the quake accelerates (the eruption), he added. Indonesia, an archipelago of more than 250 million people, sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire and is prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Government seismologists monitor more than 120 active volcanoes. Additional reporting by AP Three 15-year-old pupils at a school in Finland have received a barrage of online abuse and at least one threat of violence after a far-right MP attacked their pro-refugee project and their school. Laura Huhtasaari, an MP for the anti-immigration Finns Party, tweeted a photograph of a poster made by the teenagers to thousands of her followers on Sunday. The poster, titled Finland or Death?, appears to tackle the theme of immigration and is sympathetic to refugees arriving in the country. Photos of Sauli Niinisto, the countrys president, and Pekka Haavisto, a Green League MP, are placed under the Finland section. Images of Ms Huhtasaari and the Finns Party leader, Jussi Halla-aho, appear under the word Death. A photograph of a boat filled with refugees is placed in the centre of the poster. The pupils, who made the poster, were exposed to online abuse (Twitter) Ms Huhtasaari has previously demanded that asylum seekers be denied entry to Finland by all means necessary. She has also claimed that a fear of Islam can be explained by Muslim backwardness, according to the Finnish Broadcasting Company. Accusing the school of encouraging hate speech in her tweet, she attached a photograph of the poster which included the names of the students who had made it. The school told the Finnish Broadcasting Company it had since received emails and text messages accusing the principal of brainwashing students and of spreading Marxism and Jihadism. I must admit it was an unpleasant surprise, the principal said. Students names should not be published without permission. He added that the poster had been taken out of context. The students were told to create a poster that expressed a position on an issue and did so, he said. Ms Huhtasaaris tweet has prompted extensive debate, with some calling for the teacher who assigned the task to be sacked. World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty Others criticised the politician for publishing the schools name and the identity of the students involved. We are talking about work that was publicly displayed in the school lobby. Naturally the teacher and principal are responsible for what kind of work ends up on the school walls, the MP told told the broadcaster. The responsibility lies with the teacher and the principal, not the students. She added that the photo had been sent to her by another student at the school. The teachers role is not to instigate fear about a certain democratic party or politician, the MP added. Other politicians have defended the school in the town of Tampere in southern Finland. Tamperes mayor, Johanna Loukaskorpi, said politicians should not interfere with the curriculum. I think its most unfortunate that an MP would highlight an individual school and students in a tweet to promote her political ideology, she said. I personally think that the poster was quite effective in that it made an impact and is thought-provoking. The school can now discuss how much of an impact a single poster can have or how an image can spread through social media to an incredible extent. Russian president Vladimir Putin has described Sergei Skripal, the former spy poisoned with novichok, as a traitor and scum. In an extraordinary address at the Russian Energy Week in Moscow, the president rejected British allegations of Russian involvement in the affair with a mix of scorn and sarcasm. Youre saying some guys arrived in Britain to poison some tramps?" Mr Putin said, referring to the accidental secondary poisoning of Dawn Sturgess and Charlie Rowley in Amesbury. "What is this nonsense about?" Mr Putin said coverage of the Salisbury poisoning had distorted who Mr Skripal really was. I see that there is this theory that Skripal was almost some kind of human rights activist, he said. Hes just a spy who betrayed his people. A national traitor, thats who he is. Hes just scum. Using the derogatory term shpion (spy) rather than razvedchik used for Russian agents serving the motherland, the president went on to compare Mr Skripals actions with prostitution. Jiggery-pokery between special services hasnt just appeared just now. Spying, like prostitution, is one of the most important professions in the world. Hes just a spy who betrayed his people. A national traitor, thats who he is. Hes just scum. Vladimir Putin on Sergei Skripal Britain has accused Russia's military intelligence services GRU of ordering the attempted assassination of Sergei Skripal in Salisbury in March. In September, British detectives named two suspects Ruslan Boshirov and Alexander Petrov, who they claimed were Russian nationals and GRU officers. Independent investigations have since persuasively shown that Ruslan Boshirov is in fact a decorated GRU colonel called Anatoly Chepiga. Intelligence blunders revealed in the course of those investigations may also have inadvertently outed dozens of Russian agents. In his 18 years as leader, Mr Putin has cultivated a hard-line rhetoric, and frequently employs informal, direct and coarse language. He has talked about drowning terrorists in the toilet, compared protest ribbons to condoms, and has offered circumcisions to journalists who asked about human rights in Chechnya. Todays statement was in that tradition but it also went against the grain of recent attempts by the Kremlin to take an embarrassing story off the front pages. We have nothing more to add on the subject, presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists on Monday, as he had done the previous Friday. German chancellor Angela Merkel might cancel her trip to Israel if a Bedouin village in the West Bank is demolished by Israeli forces, the countrys Army Radio has claimed. Ms Merkel and a number of her ministers are scheduled to arrive on Wednesday evening for yearly meetings with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his cabinet. During the short trip she is expected to visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial and Museum in Jerusalem and receive an honorary doctorate degree from the University of Haifa. Later on Thursday the German leader will meet for a working lunch with President Reuven Rivlin followed by closed door talks with Mr Netanyahu. Recommended Palestinians brace for Israeli bulldozers in the West Bank But overshadowing the visit is the expected demolition of Khan al-Ahmar, a Palestinian village located between two Israeli settlements of Kfar Adumim and Ma'ale Adumim. The Israeli authorities gave the tiny hamlet, home to some 180 people, until 1 October to demolish their homes themselves. The deadline has passed, prompting concerns the demolition would happen during Ms Merkels visit. The expected destruction of the encampment has sparked international uproar and demands for Israel to cancel the plan, which the United Nations has termed a grave breach of international law. The UK, Germany, France, Italy and Spain issued a joint statement last month saying it could threaten the prospect of a contiguous Palestinian state, at a time when the peace process has stalled. On Tuesday Palestinian children in Khan al-Ahmar staged a protest urging Ms Merkel to save their homes and their school. Ms Merkel is not scheduled to meet any Palestinian leaders but is due to hold meetings with Mr Netanyahu and his government. A spokeswoman for the German embassy in Tel Aviv told The Times of Israel that a cancellation was not considered at any point in time. However, Israeli ministers responded angrily to the reports. If this is true, its a blatant, serious, and dangerous intervention, Economy and industry minister Eli Cohen said. Israel is a sovereign state with a strong and independent court, and weve long since ceased to be a tool to salve the conscience of the Europeans, he added. Palestinians await Israeli demolition of their homes in the West Bank Show all 7 1 /7 Palestinians await Israeli demolition of their homes in the West Bank Palestinians await Israeli demolition of their homes in the West Bank Children play as their parents prepare for their homes to be destroyed (Bel Trew) Bel Trew/The Independent Palestinians await Israeli demolition of their homes in the West Bank A toddler plays in the dirt of Khan al-Ahmar village (Bel Trew) Bel Trew/The Independent Palestinians await Israeli demolition of their homes in the West Bank Palestinian flags festoon the Bedouin village of Khan al-Ahmar as they await eviction (Bel Trew) Bel Trew/The Independent Palestinians await Israeli demolition of their homes in the West Bank Children play as their parents brace themselves for the bulldozers (Bel Trew) Bel Trew/The Independent Palestinians await Israeli demolition of their homes in the West Bank Iman, 7, says she does not want to leave her home (Bel Trew) Bel Trew/The Independent Palestinians await Israeli demolition of their homes in the West Bank The demolition order includes the villages school, which provides education for some 170 children from five different Bedouin communities. (Bel Trew) Bel Trew/The Independent Palestinians await Israeli demolition of their homes in the West Bank The playground of the school which will likely be demolished in the coming days (Bel Trew) Bel Trew/The Independent An Israeli court ruled in September that the Bedouin tribe, who were originally displaced from the Negev Desert in the 1950s, had illegally built their homes in an unsafe location near a main road. Israel has defended the decision, saying that the village did not secure the correct permits and so will be relocated to a more suitable location. According to Amnesty International, the two chosen options are beside a former Jerusalem municipal garbage dump, or in the vicinity of a sewage plant close to the city of Jericho. Critics have condemned the decision, saying it is impossible for Palestinians to obtain the building permits in the Israeli-controlled areas of the West Bank known as Area C. United Nations officials believe the village is being cleared to make way for the expansion of nearby Israeli settlements, illegal under international law. Residents have repeatedly appealed the court decision. Abu Anas, who was born in Khan al-Ahmar told The Independent they would remain on the land even if bulldozers arrive to destroy their houses. We will stay here and resist if they come here, even if it means sleeping outside, said Abu Anas. A Saudi Arabian couple were reportedly barred from getting married after the prospective husband was deemed unsuitable because he played a musical instrument. The bride-to-bes family had objected to their relationship, arguing the man was not religiously compatible with her because he played the oud a pear-shaped stringed instrument commonly used in Middle Eastern and North African music. Although the woman launched a legal challenge against her relatives decision, a judge backed the family after her brother submitted evidence that the man had once played the instrument at a festival in the city of Unaizah. An appeal court confirmed that verdict, meaning the marriage cannot go ahead. Because the suitor plays a musical instrument he is unsuitable for the woman from a religious point of view, Saudi newspaper Okaz quoted the court as saying. The unnamed woman, a 38-year-old bank manager, said her prospective husband, a teacher, had a good reputation and was very pious. She said she would seek an intervention from the countrys highest authorities, in reference to the countrys royal court. Saudi lawyer Abdul Rahman al-Lahim said the man had been prevented from defending himself in court. Saudi rapper Leesa A releases song about women being allowed to drive In parts of the Saudi kingdom, including the womans home state of Qassim a conservative region north of the capital Riyadh some believe music is forbidden under Islamic law. Playing an instrument is deemed an inferior profession and police in the state have previously arrested groups for listening to music. Under the countrys guardianship system, male relatives or husbands have control over almost all aspects of womens lives. Saudi Women celebrate their freedom to drive Show all 8 1 /8 Saudi Women celebrate their freedom to drive Saudi Women celebrate their freedom to drive A Saudi woman gestures while driving in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia Reuters Saudi Women celebrate their freedom to drive A Saudi woman drives at night in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia Reuters Saudi Women celebrate their freedom to drive Saudi women embrace as they celebrate the lift of the female driving ban in Saudi Arabia Reuters Saudi Women celebrate their freedom to drive A Saudi woman straps in Reuters Saudi Women celebrate their freedom to drive A Saudi woman drives to work in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Reuters Saudi Women celebrate their freedom to drive Fadya Fahad is one of the first female drivers for Careem, a ride sharing company in Saudi Arabia Getty Saudi Women celebrate their freedom to drive A Saudi woman stops at a petrol station while driving to work in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Reuters Saudi Women celebrate their freedom to drive A Saudi woman waits for coffee on the commute in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Reuters They must still seek permission to fulfil basic needs such as travel, study and opening a bank account. Saudi Arabias King Salman issued a royal decree last November announcing women would be able to drive from June 2018 for the first time since 1990. Lifting the driving ban is one of a host of social and economic reforms that have been unveiled in the kingdom since Mohammed bin Salman was appointed crown prince by his father last June. He has reined in the power of the countrys notorious religious police, reopened cinemas and promised a return to a more moderate Islam. A prominent Saudi journalist and harsh critic of his countrys ambitious young Crown Prince entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday to sort out some paperwork. Then he vanished. Now family, friends, and Turkish authorities are searching for 59-year-old Jamal Khashoggi, who contributes regularly to The Washington Post and appears frequently on television. He has been in self-imposed exile since the ascent of Mohammed bin Salman, the Saudi crown prince who has shaken up the kingdom with political and social changes as well as a sweeping crackdown on dissidents and rival royal family members. But the disappearance of Mr Khashoggi may signal a new level of brazenness by Saudi security forces seeking to silence opponents and critics at home and abroad. Jamal Khashoggi (AP) Its a clear message, said Omar Abdulaziz, an outspoken Saudi dissident in Canada. Were going to get you wherever you are. And if we cant get you, were going to harm your family. Calls and emails to Saudi missions in London, Washington, and Istanbul yielded no information about Mr Khashoggis whereabouts. A Turkish official told The Independent he likely remained inside the facility. "According to information we have, this individual who is a Saudi national is still at the consulate as of now," Ibrahim Kalin, spokesman for Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, told reporters on Wednesday. Mr Khashoggi served for years as editor-in-chief of the Saudi daily Al-Watan, speaking frequently to western journalists as a defender of the Saudi system. He was quick-tempered, sharp-witted, and well-connected. He started early as a Saudi insider and continued to work very closely with the Saudi ruling family, and be their defender, said Ali al-Ahmed, a Saudi dissident based in Washington. He was a Saudi mouthpiece. But he left the country when his faction lost out in palace intrigues following the rise of Saudi King Salman, who named his son Mohammed bin Salman Crown Prince. He eked out a career in the US as a commentator and writer on Saudi affairs, becoming increasingly critical of the Saudi leadership. Mr Khashoggi needed to finish up some paperwork ahead of his marriage to his Turkish fiancee. He visited the Saudi consulate in the leafy Levent district of Istanbul on Friday, but was told to return Tuesday at 1.30pm. From the start, he was concerned about stepping onto Saudi soil by entering the consulate, said Turan Kislakci, a friend and fellow member of the Turkish Arab Media Centre, a new organisation. His fiancee took his laptop, mobile phone, and other valuables before he walked in. He was a little nervous, said Mr Kislakci. He told her if he didnt show up after a few hours, call the Turkish Arab Media Centre and Turkish authorities. Saudi dissident attacked in Knightsbridge Hours went by. His fiancee began to grow alarmed when he didnt emerge. Calls to the consulate were made. Officials inside said Mr Khashoggi had already left. Turkish police arrived and reviewed camera footage, showing he had never left the building, said Mr Kislakci. We believe hes still inside, said Mr Kislakci. There was no sign that he was taken out in a black car or something. Maybe they are interrogating him. The Washington Post, to which he contributes a regular column, has also failed to locate him. We have been unable to reach Jamal today and are very concerned about where he may be, Eli Lopez, an editor, said in a statement. It would be unfair and outrageous if he has been detained for his work as a journalist and commentator. Under the new crown prince, Saudi Arabian security forces have grown increasingly bold. The country sparked international outrage last year when it lured Lebanons prime minister Saad Hariri to Riyadh, and then placed him under house arrest, freeing him only after French president Emmanuel Macron personally travelled to the kingdom to intervene. This week the judiciary charged a prominent economist and businessman critical of the Crown Princes financial schemes with treason and terrorism. But the apparent detention of Mr Khashoggi abroad may represent a new Saudi security doctrine. This will add to the fear that Saudi Arabia is all-powerful, and can get to anybody, said Mr Ahmed. In an effort to silence Canada-based activist Mr Abdulaziz, Saudi authorities arrested his brothers and friends about a month ago. Then, recently, he discovered that he was the victim of a sophisticated phone hacking attempt that was likely rooted in Saudi Arabia. Canada, which has strained relations with Riyadh, is reviewing the matter. The Saudi government has reached another level, he said. Now they are more violent. They would do anything to stop activists, to stop journalists, writers. Theyve jailed thousands of them. They came after my family. Last month, Art Basel chose Buenos Aires as the host for its first Cities Week. Unsurprising, given the Argentine capital has the perfect arts storm: a diverse array of fine art galleries, museums and public installations; and its a place where Argentinian masters such as Antonio Berni can rub shoulders with a younger generation of contemporary artists. Plus there is a dedicated Latin American photography museum; the worlds largest street art mural; and a power station turned cultural space. Phew. Septembers Cities Week, which fused exhibitions, installations, performances and events under the moniker Rayuela (Hopscotch), brought Argentina face to face with the international art world. Here are nine ways to explore Buenos Aires booming art scene. See the largest mural in the world, Barracas Alfredo Segatoris mural is the largest in the world (Travel Buenos Aires) Graffiti is revered in Buenos Aires, given that impressive works often harbour political messages. Its best to hire a guide to explain the ins and outs of El Regreso de Quinquela (The Return of Quinquela), a spray-painted 2,000-square-metre behemoth by Alfredo Segatori, who took the facades of the edgy Barracas neighbourhood in the south of the city as his canvas. As well as honouring La Boca-born artist Benito Quinquela Martin and four of his works, Segatori also included portraits of local residents in El Regreso. See it at the cross-section of Pedro de Mendoza and San Antonio. Visit Galeria Union , Palermo Hollywood Galeria Union specialises in urban art While visitors can dip into an array of street art tours, the curators behind graffitimundo have also gathered an urban art collection under one roof at Galeria Union. Small-size works from the likes of stencil artists Cabaio and Nazza Stencil, Argentinas leading female street artist Pum Pum and SAM, who deals in cubism, surrealism and futurism, are available to purchase at this Palermo Hollywood gallery. Visit Buenos Aires Museum of Modern Art , San Telmo Mamba houses 7,000 contemporary artworks, mainly from Argentina Following an extensive makeover, the Buenos Aires Museum of Modern Art (Mamba) reopened in July 2018 after doubling in size to showcase additional works by modern Argentinian artists. A 7,000-strong collection including Alberto Heredias 500-work legacy and 72 recently acquired Leon Ferrari pieces; the Mamba also houses a graphic and industrial design collections. Look at photography at Rolf Art , Retiro The starkly designed Rolf Art is known for its Latin American photography Photography is the focus of this gallerys game, putting photographers from Argentina and Latin America in the spotlight. Rolfs owner Florencia Giordana Braun is respected in the field, given that she also set up FoLA fototeca photography museum. One recent exhibition featured bright, often ironic works by pop snapper Marcos Lopez, whose work El martir (The martyr) can be seen at Milion bar and the muse at Na Serapia restaurant. Visit the Museum of Latin American Art in Buenos Aires , Palermo A leading light showcasing contemporary Latin American art, this private collection accumulated by developer Eduardo Costantini houses an array of permanent gems by Frida Kahlo, Antonio Berni and Xul Solar. Their works form part of Verboamerica, which delves into Latin Americas social and cultural experiences. The Malba also curates temporary exhibits; recent turns include a retrospective of Argentine artist Rogelio Polesello and Sara Facios fascinating Peron access-all-areas photography exhibition. The Cindy Sherman Richard Prince Astrup Fearnley Collection is touring here until 29 October. Visit Galeria Mar Dulce , Palermo Soho See something you like at Galeria Mar Dulce? Buy it to take home Run by an Argentinian artist and a Scottish curator, Galeria Mar Dulce deals in small-scale Argentine works that are easy to transport home. Plus, the gallery has a high exhibition turnaround, showcasing austere oil on canvas landscapes by Sofia Winazki or art for the young at heart in its annual Sweet For My Sweet exhibition. Childrens illustrator Isol, who won the prestigious Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in 2013, often shows at this cosy gallery. Hang out in Calle Lanin, Barracas The outdoor gallery of Calle Lanin, the brainchild of artist Marino Santa Maria (Travel Buenos Aires) The three blocks that comprise this residential street in Barracas form part of this open-air gallery community project spearheaded by Marino Santa Maria. Forty neighbours agreed to the artist intervening with their facades, and so the result is a vibrant array of murals that bring colour and joy to this working class neighbourhood that he unveiled in 2001, then enhanced with mosaics four years later. Visit Museo Xul Solar , Recoleta Trained as an architect and schooled in various artistic disciplines, Oscar Agustin Alejandro Schulz Solari even invented two languages, Neo Criollo and Pan Lingua. Catch a fantastic array of Xul Solars (as he was better known) paintings at this gallery, his former home. Astrology and religion play a large part in his vibrant works, and one of the most well-known is his watercolour Entierro (1914), focusing on a funeral procession. Visit Isla Flotante , La Boca Looking after a tiny stable of eight contemporary artists who show at an edgy warehouse, Isla Flotante is one of Buenos Aires more groundbreaking galleries thats committed to showcasing young Argentine talent. Having caught the eye of Art Basel Miami to show there in 2017, its most recent exhibition was Estilo eterno nuevo terror (Eternal Style New Terror) by Veronica Madanes. Essentials Getting there Norwegian and British Airways fly direct to Buenos Aires from the UK from around 670 return. Drivers on London Undergrounds Central line and Waterloo & City line are staging a 24-hour strike today, disrupting thousands of commuters journeys. Transport for London met with drivers union Aslef earlier this week in a bid to resolve the issues and avoid industrial action, but talks have so far proved unsuccessful. Heres everything we know. When is the Central line strike? It started at 12.01am on Friday 5 October and will finish on Saturday 6 October, with normal service resumed by mid-morning. The Central line twitter account tweeted: Services should start returning to normal on Saturday between 8am and 10am. Another strike is also planned for 7 November unless further talks with the union prove more fruitful. How will the strike affect journeys? There will be no service on the Central line throughout the day, including the Night Tube. The action will also affect the Waterloo & City line, which will have little to no service all day. Customers travelling to or from Ealing Broadway are advised to use the District line or TfL Rail services, while those travelling from West Ruislip should use nearby Ruislip or Ickenham stations on the Metropolitan and Piccadilly lines. Customers travelling to or from stations on the Hainault loop can use TfL Rail services via Ilford, although these are expected to be extremely busy. For customers travelling to central London, all other Tube lines are expected to run as normal. However, interchange stations along the Central and Waterloo & City lines Stratford, Liverpool Street, Tottenham Court Road, Bond Street, Mile End, Waterloo, Bank, Oxford Circus and Holborn stations in particular will be much busier than usual. There will be around an additional 80 buses in operation to help customers complete their journeys along 10 regular routes and two night bus routes. Buses, DLR, London Overground and TfL Rail services will accept Tube single and return tickets and National Rail cross-London tickets on reasonable alternative routes. TfL Travel Ambassadors will be at key locations to provide travel information and advice to customers affected by the action. Customers are advised to check the TfL website before travelling and to consult the TfL Twitter accounts, including @TfLTravelAlerts and @Centralline, as well as the TfL Travelbot on Facebook messenger, for real-time information. How bad is it? Passengers shared pictures this morning of huge crowds at Ilford station. TfL tweeted: Ilford, Manor Park and Forest Gate will have a queuing system in place this morning due to @centralline strike. Queuing systems may also be put in place at other stations. Tara Lee responded: Ilford now you wouldve hoped someone at @TfLRail could have implemented a proper queueing system but no. Crowd rush it is. Why are drivers striking? Finn Brennan, Aslefs organiser on London Underground, said: Industrial action is always the last resort but, given the intransigence of management on a whole range of issues affecting our members, we have reluctantly decided this is our only course of action. He said the strike was over a number of issues linked by a basic failure to treat drivers with fairness and respect. Management seem to think of drivers as an appendix of the trains they operate, not as human beings. We have seen drivers dismissed because of one mistake after a quarter of a century of excellent service or reduced in grade because they had the temerity to take time off sick after a traumatic incident. London Underground management has had ample opportunities to resolve this dispute but they have chosen not to because they believe they will get what they want by using sticks instead of carrots. They have abused the disciplinary and attendance procedure to try to create a climate of fear on the Central Line. Nigel Holness, TfLs Director of Network Operations for London Underground, said: We have met with the ASLEF leadership to try to work with them to avoid strike action and I urge them to continue these positive discussions so that Londoners dont experience disruption this week. Maya Bay, which shot to international fame when it featured in The Beach, is closed until further notice. The Thai bay was chosen as the ultimate island paradise, depicted in the 2000 film starring Leonardo DiCaprio, thanks to its clear turquoise waters and white sand beach. However, its rise to stardom has come with unwelcome side effects. For nearly 20 years, tourists have descended upon the beach on Koh Phi Phi Leh island in their thousands. Recommended Dubrovnik to cap the number of cruise ships allowed to dock each day In 2017, up to 5,000 people a day visited the island, reached via speedboat from the nearby islands of Phi Phi and Phuket and Krabi on the mainland. However, it closed in June 2018 for four months due to the damage excessive numbers of tourists were doing to the local ecosystem, including coral reefs. Jean-Luc Solandt, principal specialist of Marine Protected Areas, told The Independent at the time: Tourists are both ignorant of the damage they can cause by touching corals, and grabbing them, and also tend to be more clumsy than experienced divers. He added: It has been proven that the products from sun cream can slough off your body and kill corals. The plan was for the beach to reopen in October 2018, but experts say the bay has not recovered sufficiently yet. (AFP/Getty (AFP/Getty) Four months closure was not enough, Songtham Sukswang, the director of the Office of National Parks, told Traveller. We need at least a year or even up to two years or maybe more for the environment to recover this includes the coral reefs, mangrove, and the beach. The decision is a difficult one for a country whose economy relies so heavily on tourism. Visitor numbers surpassed 35 million in 2017 and travel and tourism as a whole accounted for around 21 per cent of Thailands GDP. This number is expected to rise further in the coming years, placing ever greater pressure on the countrys delicate ecosystems. You would think that 31 years after its establishment in the UK, wed be used to Black History Month. The name itself is self-explanatory, and while its purpose should be too, year after year attempts to commemorate the lives and contributions of black Brits are thwarted. Last year, to mark its 30th anniversary, children at a primary school in Newham were asked to dress as enslaved people, in a bizarre cosplay of sorts. It might be an idea not to wash these clothes and stain them with tea or coffee to look more authentic, read the letter sent home to parents, complete with assorted images of slaves and no further historical context for inspiration. This year a number of local councils, along with some primary schools, have gone one step further by deciding to rebrand the month altogether. To some peoples minds, black history is old news; diversity history whatever that is apparently deserves its turn in the spotlight. Apparently in 2018, the year in which the extent of Home Office hostility towards migrants (many of whom are black, some of whom belong to the Windrush generation) has come to light, we no longer need to focus on black people. Never mind the decades-long shortfalls of the British school curriculum, which to this day struggles provide a comprehensive education on black British history unless teachers themselves take the initiative to insist upon it in their own classrooms. Wandsworth Council, one of the main culprits in the diversity month debacle, explained that alongside recognising and celebrating Black History Month with a number of specific events, it also prioritised acknowledging all the different faiths, ethnicities, cultures and genders of all residents in the borough during the month of October, apparently the only month of the year in which inclusivity can be recognised and celebrated. Other councils, such as Hillingdon in west London, abandoned black history-specific celebrations long ago. In 2007, as Get West London reported, Black History Month was abandoned to make way for generic diversity celebrations. Hillingdon councillor Richard Lewis, a Conservative, explained his decision to vote down the Labour Partys motion to reinstate Black History Month as an attempt to root out discrimination in general. I believe social cohesion is achieved by integration and by opening up opportunities for all, he claimed, apparently unaware of the fact that continuing to whitewash this institution isnt much of a triumph against discrimination at all. In Britain today there is, as there always has been, widespread discomfort with allowing black people to celebrate themselves, on their own terms, without the pressure to universally accept political blackness. The replacing of black events with diversity celebrations does not give all lives the opportunity to be heard, or to be championed. What these diluted celebrations do is to mute blackness to a barely audible cheer. The message to black people is this: yes, we can rejoice in our long-overlooked history, but we must be careful not to do it too loudly, or proudly. Windrush citizen Anthony Bryan 'didn't know any airports in Jamaica' when asked which he'd prefer to be deported to In fact, the official Black History Month website has had to withstand multiple cyber attacks in the past few days just one example of the insidiousness of that widespread anti-blackness. For black Brits we know how this feels; people are growing frustrated with our presence in society, our success in society, even our attempts to recognise the pain that we have withstood because of society. Case after case of police brutality against us; the governments appeasement of xenophobia and racism; an increase in hate crime. None of this is surprising to me, but it doesnt hurt to be reminded. Efforts to keep our celebrations to a minimum, ignore the fact that Black History Month provides an opportunity to fill in these gaps. When I was at school, the curriculum suggested that slavery was ancient history and had no lasting repercussions or ties to Britain today. Or that Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks, two African American civil rights heroes, were the only two black people in the history of the world that did anything of any worth. And if it hadnt been for the efforts of my parents, I doubt the shamefully limited teaching of black history I grew up with would have in any way been enriched by the sincere endeavours of local authorities who proclaim their commitment to diversity. Even with my parents input, the encyclopedias and pamphlets, the exposure to Jamaican and Antiguan history, and black British history it simply wasnt enough. Im still learning. In fact, as so many black Brits also admitted on social media on 1 October, the sight of a Google doodle of Mary Prince the first woman to have a slavery memoir published in Britain was the first I had heard of her. Ever. Thanks to Google. Let that sink in. There is no doubt that this time next year well need to revisit this conversation, when some council somewhere decides that Black History Month should be renamed Inclusivity Month. But until then, Ill look forward to the day when I can bask in the month of October and all it means to me and millions of black Britons without having to explain why we deserve to celebrate it in the first place. Everyones worried for their children today. Were worried they might rape someone and be held accountable for it. Were worried they might not know about consent and get caught out. Were worried they might dodge millions of dollars in inheritance tax and get their names in the papers. You know, all the usual things. Most urgently, Donald Trump wants you to think of your son because evil people like the Democrats who are against Brett Kavanaughs nomination might destroy him too if youre not careful. What do I do, Mom? What do I do, Mom? he said yesterday in Mississippi, in imitation of a poor, beleaguered child who wasnt able to become the chief executive of IBM or General Motors because hed been accused of raping someone in the past. A life left in tatters, truly, with the basic human right of being able to head up a large corporation or sit on the Supreme Court swept away by some conniving female. It doesnt bear thinking about. Donald Trump is worried about his son, and Donald Trump Jr is worried about his own sons in turn. Ive got two boys, and Ive got two girls, Trump Jr said this week in Montana. And when I see whats going on right now [with MeToo and the Christine Blasey Ford investigation], its scary. Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions Show all 16 1 /16 Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions New York Post Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions The Washington Post Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions Newsday Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions St Louis Post Dispatch Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions Chicago Sun Times Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions The Star Ledger Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions Daily News Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions The New York Times Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions San Francisco Chronicle Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions The Boston Globe Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions Houston Chronicle Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions Miami Herald Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions Detroit Free Press Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions The Wall Street Journal Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions The Dallas Morning News Trump's presidency: US media reacts to Manafort and Cohen convictions USA Today He added that in such an environment, where men seeking to control the laws of the land are asked to publicly answer to allegations of sexual assault, he was more concerned for the wellbeing of his sons than his daughters. Like his father, it seems he believes that it really is a very scary time for young men in America. In this tale of fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, its important to remember where the women factor in. Trump knows that referring to Christine Blasey Ford as a politically motivated liar, and then tarring all women with the same brush, isnt an intelligent strategy. He steps carefully around the issue of demonising the entire female population even as he mocks Fords testimony to thousands of people. He invokes the sympathetic mother; the horrified, protective, desexualised older woman who knows her baby did nothing wrong; the one to whom the question is posed: What do I do, Mom? And it isnt Brett Kavanaughs life alone that he dwells on with a significant pause in his campaign rally speech: A mans life is shattered. His wife is shattered, his daughters. These people are, in Trumps narrative, the Good Women. Theyre the faithful wives with nonexistent libidos who diligently raised their sons with traditional values, reminding them to open the car door for their prom date, to pick out a corsage, to help their mother with the grocery bags. Theyre the daughters who sit mutely in church pews beside their fathers; young women who have been cautioned not to sleep with anyone except their future husbands, who would never be seen out late or wearing a short skirt at a college party, or around underage drinkers. They are fantasies. They are the Madonnas pitted against the whores in an endless right-wing reverie. The Good Woman is never, ever sexual. The women who right-wing politicians have a real problem with are the sexually mature. And they have no children, and so its hard to pretend that their libido is powered purely by maternal instinct. They dont act as though sex is a necessary endurance until they get to the ultimate aim of a cooing newborn. Theyre the college students; the twentysomethings at bars and gigs; the Christine Blasey Fords in their swimsuits and their T-shirts, sipping a beer at a party. They have a sexual freedom that men such as Trump find so uncomfortable, so wrong. And thats why theyll never appear in one of his speeches, never be talked about with faux-concern, that paternal raised eyebrow, the soft gesture. They might turn out wearing Make America Great Again caps at rallies every so often, but their very presence is dangerous to acknowledge. So, to the entire Trump family, I would say this: Im worried about your sons too. Im worried you raised them with the same values youre espousing now. Im worried you told them that women who arent their mothers or daughters dont really qualify as human beings worthy of your concern. Im worried Ill encounter those sons of yours on the street, or at a party, or in the office when theyre all grown up. Im worried I wouldnt be able trust them to act civilly, maturely, or indeed legally. Im worried that if I do report an assault, Ill be openly mocked and publicly disbelieved. Im worried that men will be placed in power who see sexual assault as normal, and rape as a bit of horseplay before I married the mother of my children. Im worried those men will sit in the courtrooms, make the laws and look sympathetically on other, younger men who also dont see women as people. And Im worried about your daughters, too. Im worried that if they come to you asking: What do I do, Dad? What do I do, Dad?, the answer will be: push it down in your mind. Take the therapy. Deal with the flashbacks. Tell the partner you cant face intimacy with that its just because it hurts or you have a headache or youre a bit tired. Above all, dont speak out because that means ruining a mans life. And you wouldnt want someones life to be ruined over a stupid little thing like rape, right? In a world where this is how privileged Americans raise their families, Im worried about everybody elses children too. Strange to say, given our national obsession with Brexit, Britain is not the European Unions only problem or even its biggest. Italy fits that description and, in fact, it has done for some time. The reason? Italy represents a mortal threat to Europes financial stability, and the very future of the European single currency. Or, more acutely, Italys government led by Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, and his deputy and interior minister, Matteo Salvini, wants some radical change in the way the EU is run, especially the euro and migration policy. Brexit will come, and Europe will sail on regardless. It views the breakup of the single currency as a much more serious threat, and rightly so. Migrants allowed to disembark the Diciotti ship in Italy following nine days stand-off The crisis in Italy, however, is nothing new. It has been going on, with varying degrees of intensity, since 2010. Overshadowed by the more serious problems in Greece, Italy was always the real worry. While Greece was small enough for Germany and the richer members of the eurozone to rescue, Italy with an economy not far off the size of the UKs is just too big: too big to fail, and too big to save. Hence the panic. We know that this is an existential problem for the future of the European Union because Italys own populist leaders make no secret that they are unhappy with the way the euro works. If their European partners wont allow Italy to spend and borrow more than the eurozone rules permit, they would rather have their own currency. They have even toyed with the idea of printing their own euro mini-bonds, functionally identical to euro banknotes but outside the control of the European central bank (and, in reality, illegal). In Italian elections, Brussels is blamed for many problems: the migrant crisis, the state of the economy, and the general sense of malaise about Italys stagnant, ageing society. The Genoa bridge tragedy stands as a symbol of national failure. The nation is as divided as ever rich and poor, north and south, populists and neo-fascists versus the moderates. Imagine a nation governed by an administration with Ukips attitude to migration but Jeremy Corbyns economic policies and you have the measure of Italy today. In the most recent standoff, over the Italian budget, the Five Star-League coalition in Rome backed down in their confrontation with the EU Commission, but hostilities will surely be resumed in due course on Italys economic freedom and, even more important to the country, the migration crisis, an issue Salvini has adopted as his personal mission to solve. Why is Italy in trouble? The simple reason is that its debts are too large, and investors fear that, sooner or later, the government will default on them. They could postpone or reduce the interest paid on Italian government bonds, or fail to pay up as they fall due, or, in extremis, leave the euro and introduce a new Italian currency. This would, ironically, make the euro-denominated debt even harder to pay off using, say, a new devalued lira. If investors or the European Central Bank (ECB) wont lend to Italys government to keep its public services running, the political consequences would be incalculable. When Italys public finances are in trouble, so are those of its banks; by long tradition, they have always been more or less enthusiastic buyers of Italian government bonds, even when nobody else wanted them. In recent years the ECB has been willing to buy them, but that programme is being wound down another cause of friction between Italy and the EUs institutions. If the banks assets Italian government bonds become worthless, then the banks themselves become worthless. If the Italian banks get into trouble then the Italian government has to try and bail them out, and a vicious circle ensues. Rescuing the entire system is beyond the means of the EU (ie Germany). The more fundamental reason lies in Italys slow-growing economy. Behind that is a problem with international competitiveness and behind everything lies Italys dreadful demographics, with too few younger workers supporting too many older citizens. Ironically, migration would help solve some of that imbalance, but it is hugely unpopular and with increasing resentment over the reluctance of other EU partners to accept migrants. Viktor Orbans Hungary, in particular, has earned the wrath of Italian politicians, and there is no love lost with France, which lectures Italy about its responsibilities but fails to take much action. Unlike the UK, Italy is not going to leave the EU but it might be better if it did. Increasingly awkward and unhappy in the club, Italys populists seem more inclined to ally themselves with Trumps America and Putins Russia than the EU of Macron and Merkel. Italy is like a troublesome old relative in the corner, chucking abuse at the rest of the family and unwilling to face up to their own shortcomings. There will be more rows. Dear Jeremy Hunt, Greetings from Lithuania, Britains loyal partner in Nato. Greetings also from myself, a British immigrant democratically elected to the city council of the beautiful capital city Vilnius a city which, thanks to EU freedom of movement and to those who fought to free Lithuania from the Soviet Union, I have been proud and able to call my home since 2005. I was elected in 2015 on a platform of tolerance, openness, transparency and liberal democratic values. These values, until sometime during 2016, I held to be British. I was, in part, elected by Lithuanians who hoped that a Brit would have a deep and historic understanding of those values, making him the ideal antidote to lingering socialist ideals and the persistently oppressive, top-down approach of Eastern European governance. I hope you can agree that, bearing in mind the enormously hard work she did to free the East, Margaret Thatcher would be overjoyed to see me sitting here carrying the torch a torch that was once your partys logo. When I was sworn in as a representative of the people of Vilnius, I became (as far as I am aware) the only non-citizen in Lithuanian history to pledge allegiance to the Lithuanian constitution. With my hand on that constitution, I promised the people of Vilnius that I would defend their interests, their rights and their freedoms with every breath I take. Of this fact, as you might be able to understand, I am extremely proud; this duty and solemn responsibility, I take extremely seriously. Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Show all 6 1 /6 Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Phillip Hammond Chancellor Phillip Hammond said in an interview with the Mail that Boris has never been "a details man", won't be next Prime Minister and that his most notable policy achievement is the launching of Boris Bikes AFP/Getty Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris David Davis Speaking to Sophie Ridge on Sunday, former Brexit Secretary David Davis said "a lot of his ideas, I think, are good headlines but not necessarily good policies" PA Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Ruth Davidson Speaking on Sunday Politics, Leader of the Scottish Conservatives Ruth Davidson has said that Boris' use of language in attacking the Prime Minister's Chequers plan was "not wise" and urged for a "period of silence" PA Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Greg Clark Speaking at a fringe event at the conference, Business Secretary Greg Clark stated that Boris' idea to scrap HS2 and instead build a bridge to Northern Ireland was "completely the wrong approach" PA Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris Lord Digby Jones Speaking on stage in Birmingham, crossbench peer Lord Digby Jones branded Boris as "irrelevant" and "offensive" for his comments on business PA Conservative Conference: Tories line up to denounce Boris David Mundell Referring to Boris' recent 6-point Brexit plan, Scottish Secretary David Mundell stated that "these are things for headlines, not for the substance of negotiations" PA So it is in accordance with my oath that I write to you today. This morning I read with shock, disgust and embarrassment that you a high-ranking British parliamentarian and a potential pretender to the office of prime minister compared the EU to the Soviet Union in your Conservative Party conference speech. Your comparison was not only infantile, it is also irresponsible for a person in your position to push such buttons in the context of the Kremlins continued propaganda war to divide Europe, a war in which far too many British politicians have become enthusiastic footsoldiers, useful idiots and collaborators. This is a war which Vladimir Putin finances lavishly: finances which undoubtedly influenced the referendum on the UKs membership of the European Union; finances which successfully ensured the result Russia so dearly wanted. This is the result which you now cherish and pervert, presenting it as the desire of 52 per cent of the British people, while clearly much less than 50 per cent had in mind the kind of chaotic, amateurish, economically damaging exit that you and your colleagues have succeeded in arranging. Your hysterical and hallucinogenic speech will be applauded in the corridors of the Russian secret services whose disinformation campaign tactics you are mimicking so closely that it makes me wonder whether or not you are receiving their payment via a Maltese bank. You campaigned for Remain but have since decided, presumably for Machiavellian reasons, to reverse your position and give speeches that pander to the most Europhobic and vile sectors of your party, along with knowingly rousing the rabble of deranged and discredited organisations such as Ukip and the English Defence League. More importantly and I cannot stress this enough your speech spat in the faces of millions of dead peoples surviving relatives, people who experienced and resisted and suffered under Soviet terror, people who were imprisoned in the Soviet Union, people who fought for and prayed for the kind of freedom you take for granted and now recklessly abuse. Ordinary words cannot fully express my fellow Vilnians feelings about you, but swearwords can. Unfortunately, due to the restrictions of the oversight of the Vilnius City Council Ethics Commission, I am unable to use such words freely in official communications. Sincerely, Mark Adam Harold City Councillor (Independent) Vilnius, Lithuania, European Union A version of this open letter first appeared on the author's personal website The senior investigating officer in charge of a double murder probe has told of his fears that Brexit will affect future cross-Border investigations. Former Detective Inspector Patrick Marry headed up the investigation into the murders of Anthony Burnett (31) and Joseph Redmond (25) in Co Louth in 2012. Yesterday Jason O'Driscoll was handed the mandatory life sentence for the double murder. Mr Marry, who retired earlier this year, said the type of co-operation used in the investigation would be "maybe lost with Brexit, I fear". "The investigation was protracted and tedious and it took three years to solve. It was a case based on circumstantial evidence. We sourced and utilised expert analysis from the UK. "It involved the analysis of phones and expert evidence given by gardai. It's a case where the Garda, with permission from the PSNI, travelled North to gather evidence and take statements. This type of co-operation may be lost with Brexit, I fear." Expand Close Killer: Jason ODriscoll again proclaimed his innocence in court yesterday / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Killer: Jason ODriscoll again proclaimed his innocence in court yesterday Mr Marry has led other high-profile investigations including the murders of Irene White, Rachel O'Reilly and Garda Adrian Donohoe. Yesterday's sentencing hearing saw O'Driscoll interrupt Mr Justice Michael White to insist: "I'm innocent, your honour. The jury got it wrong." A jury had found O'Driscoll, of Richmond Avenue, Fairview, guilty following a trial two months ago. On that occasion, O'Driscoll stood up and asked: "Guilty of f***ing what?" Yesterday, Alex Owens SC, prosecuting, read out victim impact statements prepared by the victims' mothers. Mr Burnett's mother, Marie Burnett, acknowledged her "loving, kind-hearted and caring" son had made some bad decisions in his life. But "he was my rock, my first-born and my only son," she wrote. "Not only was my son shot, but their bodies were burned so badly that we couldn't even have an open coffin and say a proper goodbye." Pauline Doran wrote that her eldest son had been brutally murdered "for being in the wrong place at the wrong time". Mr Justice Michael White then said that the court had a duty to impose the mandatory life sentence. He said that the two men had been "executed in a callous, brutal way". Going flat: Irish drinks exports to the UK have already been hit. The impact of a hard Brexit on Ireland's drinks and hospitality sector could cost the Exchequer 135m a year. That is according to a paper from the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (Digi). The 'Economic Impact of Brexit on the Drinks and Hospitality Sector' report found that lost revenue would result from a combination of hard Brexit-related factors, including reduced drinks exports to the UK, reduced British tourism, and an increase in cross-Border shopping. Drinks exports to the UK have already decreased, dropping 11pc in the first half of 2018 alone, according to the lobby group. This comes on the back of a decrease of 7pc between 2015-2017, it added. Many Irish drinks products are heavily reliant on the British market, with more than 70pc of all cider exports, and 43pc of all beer exports from Ireland going to the UK. Difficulty accessing the British market will eat into the margins of drinks producers, especially micro-breweries and distilleries, the report has found. Meanwhile, a more attractive euro-sterling exchange rate could lead to an increase in cross-Border shopping. Digi's report estimates that if Republic of Ireland citizens travel to Northern Ireland to purchase drinks products, businesses and government here could lose out on as much as 60m worth of expenditure. Theresa May's latest plan to resolve the Irish Border crux has been torpedoed by Arlene Foster who described it as a "complete non-starter". In emerging proposals, Mrs May aims to resolve the issue of the Irish backstop by expanding regulatory checks on goods travelling across the Irish Sea. But she continues to rule out doing the same thing for customs controls. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which is propping up Mrs May's minority government, has warned that any attempt to implement a regulatory border in the Irish Sea would collapse the parties' confidence and supply agreement. That would end Mrs May's government. The latest twist came as an earlier row over comments by Ms Foster about changing the Good Friday Agreement still simmered. Ms Foster said proposals for a regulatory "border down the Irish Sea" would damage Northern Ireland's economy and harm it "constitutionally", adding that it was a clear red line. "Let me be very clear about that, because I think there have been some people speaking about 'oh well with customs everything will be across the UK, but with regulatory alignment terms we can do something there'," she told the 'Daily Telegraph'. Expand Close Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May prepares her keynote speech in her hotel room for the Conservative Party Conference at the International Convention Centre, in Birmingham. Photo: REUTERS / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May prepares her keynote speech in her hotel room for the Conservative Party Conference at the International Convention Centre, in Birmingham. Photo: REUTERS "It would not be acceptable to me as leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, and certainly it would damage the economy. That's just of course a complete non-starter." Earlier, the Irish Government insisted that the British government will not seek any changes to the Good Friday Agreement to fit a Brexit outcome, despite Ms Foster's claims that the agreement was not "sacrosanct". In a strong rebuff to Ms Foster, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the Irish Government would stand by the 1998 Good Friday Agreement and defend its primacy. Mr Varadkar said the agreement had the status of an international treaty, could be changed without the consent of the British and Irish governments, and any changes also needed the cross-community support of the nationalists and unionists in the North. Tanaiste Simon Coveney said Mrs May had given clear guarantees to protect all parts of the Good Friday Agreement around Brexit negotiations. He said it had been voted by a big majority of the people on both sides of the Border. "The British government cannot unilaterally change the Good Friday Agreement and I don't believe the British government wants to do that, regardless of the commentary we have heard," the Foreign Affairs Minister insisted. The two leaders were responding to questions about those controversial statements by Ms Foster. "Certainly, as far as this Government is concerned, the Good Friday Agreement is not up for negotiation in these talks over Brexit," the Taoiseach told the Dail. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald had asked about an interview in which Ms Foster said the Good Friday Agreement was not an unchangeable piece of legislation. Ms Foster had said it was "deeply frustrating" to hear remain voters and EU officials talk about Northern Ireland and saying the Belfast Agreement could not be changed. She said there had been a lot of holding up the Good Friday Agreement as a "sacrosanct" piece of legislation. The controversial comments by Ms Foster were added to by a number of other inflammatory statements at the British Conservative Party conference in Birmingham. Former UK foreign minister Boris Johnson unleashed another broadside against Mrs May, condemning her handling of the Brexit talks so far. Mr Johnson said her so-called Chequers plan to leave the European Union was a "cheat" that would leave Britain "locked in the tractor beam of Brussels". The colourful speech before a huge audience was seen as another step in challenging for the party leadership. Mrs May pledged to continue working on a new plan to implement the "backstop". But Ms Foster also took a veiled swipe at the prime minister by praising what she called Boris Johnson's positive vision for Brexit. The DUP leader said she could work with Mr Johnson if he became prime minister. Stanley Johnson has claimed that there never was a hard border in Ireland (Ian West/PA) Boris Johnsons father Stanley Johnson last night claimed that there has never been a hard border in Ireland. Speaking from the Conservative Party conference to Channel 4 news last night, author and former Conservative MEP Stanley Johnson said: This whole Irish question has been elevated into a tail which wags the dog. Its absolutely ludicrous, theres never been a hard border in Ireland and Im sure there wont be a hard border. There are plenty of countries in the EU where one country is in the EU and another country is not in the EU, and they dont shoot each other. So why we can think that Irelands going to be such a disaster, I dont know., he continued. The Channel 4 reporter sought to remind Mr Johnson that there was indeed a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic; Well we know for many decades it was a very troublesome area, she said. To which Mr Johnson replied; How reasonable is it on the basis of that, to say, and as a result of that, in order to keep the whole of the United Kingdom happy we decided we would all of us join, and forever after, this common regulatory framework. I dont think its good enough, its not a good trade. Mr Johnson then went on to give his views on the Good Friday agreement, which Mrs Mays partner in government DUP leader Arlene Foster yesterday said was not sacrosanct while also praising the belief and spirits set out in Boris Johnsons Brexit plan. Its out there in the Good Friday Agreement. What it says is, if a conflict situation, armed conflict obviously, appears to be arising, the Northern Ireland people themselves will have a referendum, he said. The C4 journalist then asked if he would be happy for Northern Ireland to make way for the United Kingdom? If thats what the people of Northern Ireland want to do so be it, he replied. Further stating that he would prefer that to happen then to have Mrs Mays Chequers plan introduced. I think the Chequers plan is completely unacceptable for a country like Britain which has been a sovereign country for a thousand years, weve written our own rules, we cannot have the worst of both worlds - that is to say, to have peoples rules without any chance of writing them. Asked if he thought it was time for a second Brexit referendum, Mr Johnson said; No, no I dont. My view is the country voted, theres an option out there that will deliver something which meets that countrys vote, and I do think its Canada. I think nows the time to go for it. Earlier on Tuesday, while giving a speech at a fringe meeting of conservatives at the Tory party conference in Birmingham, former UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson called on Theresa May to chuck Chequers in a reference to the British PMs Brexit plan. The former Mayor of London, Johnson, had previously called Mrs Mays Brexit plan deranged and preposterous as he proposed building a bridge between the UK and Ireland. Around 40pc of Irish goods exporters traded exclusively with the UK in 2016. Thats according to a major new survey of the British-Irish trading relationship by the CSO. The figures lay bare the potential for a hard Brexit to wreak havoc on Irish business, with SMEs set to be hit hard. SMEs made up the large majority of the number of enterprises exporting to the UK, at 93pc of the total number of UK exporters. Micro enterprises (businesses with fewer than 10 employees alone made up over half the number of firms exporting to the UK. Gerard Brady, head of tax and fiscal policy at business representative group Ibec, said the data was also noteworthy for the scale of imports to Ireland from the UK. "Over 12bn of goods was imported by our wholesalers and retailers alone in 2016, with most of that being undertaken by SMEs. If businesses cannot diversify their sourcing Irish consumers will remain very vulnerable to a Brexit shock. It is crucial we strong measures in next weeks Budget to help Irish business prepare for Brexit." BRITISH Prime Minister Theresa May made an upbeat start to her keynote speech to the Conservative Party conference by shimmying on stage to Abba's Dancing Queen today. Mocking the dance moves she made during a recent visit to Africa, which went viral, the British Prime Minister arrived in the hall throwing some shapes as the crowd cheered. Mrs May's speech last year was beset by a series of disasters - a prankster served her with a joke P45, she suffered a coughing fit and the letters on the set behind her fell off as she ploughed on with her address. The PM told Tory activists: "Can I just say, you will have to excuse me if I cough during the speech. "I've been up all night super-gluing the backdrop." Mrs May called on her Conservative Party on Wednesday to pull together and unite behind her plan to leave the European Union, saying "if we hold our nerve" she can win a deal "that delivers for Britain". On the final day of her party's conference, May rallied members, trying to address their concerns that the Conservatives are becoming increasingly directionless under the weight of Brexit by calling on them to look to a brighter future. It was a warm welcome for a leader, whose fragile position was put under further pressure after the EU rejected parts of her so-called Chequers plan and critics stepped up calls for her to rethink her strategy for Brexit, Britain's biggest trade and foreign policy shift for more than 40 years. But with just six months before Britain is due to leave the bloc, she has so far weathered the Brexit storm, shrugging off a barnstorming speech by her former foreign minister Boris Johnson, which did little to hide his leadership ambitions. "If we all go off in different directions in pursuit of our own vision of the perfect Brexit, we risk ending up with no Brexit at all," she said in a clear nod to eurosceptic lawmakers who have published their alternatives plan for leaving the EU. "And there's another reason why we need to come together. We are entering the toughest part of the negotiations ... What we are proposing is very challenging for the EU. But if we stick together and hold our nerve I know we can get a deal that delivers for Britain." Taking a swipe at Johnson, May said she was taking decisions on Brexit in the "national interest", pressing her argument that her former foreign secretary's alternative Brexit proposals would tear the United Kingdom apart. "It is no surprise that we have had a range of different views expressed this week," she said. "But my job as prime minister is to do what I believe to be in the national interest. And that means two things. First, honouring the result of the referendum ... and secondly, to seek a good trading and security relationship with our neighbours after we have left." She also used the speech to pay tribute to those who died in the First World War, which ended 100 years ago and also highlighted the efforts to rebuild in the wake of the Second World War "where former enemies become friends". Mrs May said: "We must recapture that spirit of common purpose because the lesson of that remarkable generation is clear: if we come together there is no limit to what we can achieve. Our future is in our hands." She also joked: "It's not always glamorous. I have seen the trailers for Bodyguard - and let me tell you it was not like that in my day." The PM highlighted abuse faced by politicians, including the high volume of racist and misogynistic messages sent to shadow home secretary Diane Abbott. She said: "You don't have to agree with a word Diane Abbott says (in order) to believe passionately in her right to say it free from threats and abuse." Mrs May warned polarised politics can result in "good people being put off" public service, adding: "It doesn't have to be this way." She added: "Let's rise above the abuse, let's make a positive case for our values that will cut through the bitterness and bile that is poisoning our politics - and let's say it loud and clear, Conservatives will always stand up for a politics that unites us rather than divides us." The British Prime Minister used the speech to lash out at Labour, highlighting the anti-Semitism row which has hit the party under Jeremy Corbyn. "What has befallen Labour is a national tragedy," she said. "What has it come to when Jewish families today seriously discuss where they should go if Jeremy Corbyn becomes prime minister? When a leading Labour MP says his party is 'institutionally racist'? "When the leader of the Labour Party is happy to appear on Iranian state TV but attacks our free media here in Britain? That is what Jeremy Corbyn has done to the Labour Party. It is our duty, in this Conservative Party, to make sure he can never do it to our country." The Conservatives would be "a party for the whole country". She said: "A party not for the few, not even for the many, but for everyone who is willing to work hard and do their best." The Conservatives "must be a party that is not in thrall to ideology, but motivated instead by enduring principles". The British Prime Minister said her principles could be summed up in three words: security, freedom and opportunity. Imagine the scenario. Paschal Donohoe is sitting in his office the night before the Budget when his phone rings and the name 'Michael Lowry' flashes up. A disgraced ex-minister who was recently convicted of tax offences is hardly a person the Finance Minister wants to prioritise as he crunches the final numbers. But Mr Donohoe will have no option but to answer the phone and discuss whatever is on the Tipperary TD's mind, be that new classrooms at Holycross National School or vacancies at the Thurles Civil Registration Office. The decision by Louth TD Peter Fitzpatrick to quit Fine Gael has not led to any panic in the party ranks - but it has drawn a stronger spotlight on how Leo Varadkar's Government is propped up. With Fitzpatrick overboard, Fine Gael now has 49 TDs who work with the four Independent Alliance TDs and Denis Naughten and Katherine Zappone. Once you count in Sean Canney, who continues to vote with the Government despite leaving the Alliance, Mr Varadkar has the backing of 56. At this point he usually turns to Independents Michael Harty, Noel Grealish and Michael Lowry to ensure a majority of at least 57 when Fianna Fail abstains. But here's an added problem. Mr Harty has confirmed to the Irish Independent that he will not vote in favour of next Tuesday's Budget. He was elected on the back of a campaign to maintain services in rural villages and believed progress was being made in some areas. However, he is now horrified that the Government is set to allow 159 post offices to close. "I can't support the Government if there's not a solution to that," he said. At the same time, Mr Harty is continuing to enjoy the 'open-door policy' offered to Independents in his position. In recent days he met with Health Minister Simon Harris to discuss the "great concern" he has over the implementation of Slaintecare. Government sources said last night that they are not worried about the perception that Michael Lowry is now a key man when it comes to passing the Budget. "It's whatever works in practice. The Dail is based on votes," shrugged a senior source. Bizarrely Fianna Fail, which has a big say in the compilation of the Budget, has adopted a similar attitude and wants the Budget to pass with no fuss. Asked about the reliance on Mr Lowry, Fianna Fail's Billy Kelleher said that was entirely a matter for the Government. "Our obligation as stated in the confidence and supply is to abstain on budgetary matters and for them to provide 57 deputies and I'm quite sure that the Government whip will be trying to find that number between now and next Tuesday." In new politics, it appears practicalities are more important than principles and the door will always be open to Mr Lowry. A grant for an elderly person to convert their home into two separate housing units is now a key demand of Shane Ross's Independent Alliance as Budget talks intensify. The Independent group in Government with Fine Gael is firmly focused on the grey vote, having previously demanded a 'granny grant' for family members who provide childcare. That idea is off the table so the Independents now want a grant for 'empty-nest' pensioners in under-occupied family homes, labelled a 'granny flat grant'. The move would be pitched as a way to help the housing crisis by encouraging older people to downsize and help them afford to stay in their houses. But tensions are mounting as Independent ministers are frustrated with the shape of the Budget. A row broke out at Cabinet when Disabilities Minister Finian McGrath accused Fine Gael of trying to "screw" small businesses with a hike to the special 9pc VAT rate in the tourism sector. The new 'granny flat grant' idea has been tabled by the group of ministers including Shane Ross who previously pushed the 'granny grant'. It is now widely accepted that the much-publicised proposal for a 1,000 a year 'granny grant' for grandparents who provide free childcare is a non-runner. Expand Close New proposals: Transport, Tourism and Sport Minister Shane Ross is pushing the granny flat grant plans. Photo: Mark Condren / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp New proposals: Transport, Tourism and Sport Minister Shane Ross is pushing the granny flat grant plans. Photo: Mark Condren But instead, the Alliance has put forward a raft of new initiatives aimed at meeting the needs of older people. The group's pre-Budget submission highlights the renovation grant idea, for splitting the homes of older people into two separate units. The document says the grant would be for "converting under-occupied family homes" into "self-contained ground floor accommodation suitable for the needs of the older home owner" while the upstairs area would become a rented apartment. This would provide an additional income for an older person who might otherwise not consider taking in a lodger. Another proposal is to reduce stamp duty on houses purchased by older people if they are smaller than their previous property. The Alliance is also calling for the introduction of new incentives to encourage developers to provide a certain amount of properties for downsizers. However tensions are high as Budget talks go to the wire. Three sources confirmed to Independent.ie that Mr McGrath interrupted a discussion on foreign investment at Cabinet yesterday to complain that hiking the special 9pc VAT rate would be "screwing restaurants and B&Bs". He asked Business Minister Heather Humphreys what feedback she had got from companies. One source said: "He was totally out of order but nobody responded." Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe plans to raise the VAT rate by at least 2pc in order to collect an extra 500m next year. The move is facing major resistance from the hospitality sector which benefits from the special rate. Newsbrands, the umbrella group for most the print and online media, has also launched a campaign aimed at reducing VAT on newspapers and magazines. The Independent Alliance is not opposed to removing the special rate for larger hotels - but wants protections put in place for smaller businesses. Discussions between Mr Donohoe and the group, including Mr Ross, will continue this week. The Independent Alliance is set for one big win with sources confirming that betting tax is set to double. Attempts by Junior Minister John Halligan to have the levy hiked in previous budgets have been rejected. However it is now set to double from 1pc to 2pc, bringing in an extra 50m a year. Some of this money will be ringfenced to fund gambling addiction services, while the rest will be fed into the Exchequer. Meanwhile, overspending in the Department of Health is to cause a further headache for Mr Donohoe as he crunches the numbers. Spending is 300m ahead of target for the first nine months of 2018 - compared to being 166m ahead of target at the same point last year. The figures are contained in new Exchequer returns, which show the tax take is broadly on target. Some 37.5bn of tax was taken in the first nine months - 5.2pc ahead of 2017. The increase has been fuelled in part by a 10.5pc jump in corporation tax compared to 2017. Income tax and VAT are up 6.8pc and 5pc respectively this year - albeit slightly behind target. But Peter Vale, a tax partner at Grant Thornton, said the figures were solid overall. "There is nothing in today's figures that should cause the minister to reshape his thoughts in advance of next week's Budget." Shauna McCallum, pictured outside a family hub, has been living in emergency accommodation since September 2017 Photo: Johnny Brew A young mother who has been homeless for a year has told how living in emergency accommodation has severely impacted the mental health of her family. Shauna McCallum (29) became homeless in September 2017 after her landlord decided to sell the house they called home for two and a half years. More than a year later, she is now living in a family hub in Crumlin, Dublin with her nine-year-old daughter and five-year-old son. Shauna's children suffer from anxiety and she says their current living environment has had an incredibly negative impact on their behaviour. Her daughter regularly meets with a psychologist as her anxiety has got worse since they became homeless. "There's certain days I don't want to get out of bed," Shauna tells Independent.ie. "There's certain days I just don't want to walk out that door. Any time you ring up the council, the number of homeless people just keeps going upwards rather than downwards. "I became homeless as the landlord just needed to sell up, that was it. I tried to find properties under my budget but I couldn't find anywhere at all. Expand Close Mother-of-two Shauna McCallum (29) says living in emergency accommodation has severely impacted her mental health Photo: Johnny Brew / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Mother-of-two Shauna McCallum (29) says living in emergency accommodation has severely impacted her mental health Photo: Johnny Brew "It's hard going living in a hub. "You're around so many different families, so many different people from different backgrounds. You've no structure, you've no routine for your family. "Even doing homework and getting to bed at a certain time for school is impossible with the noise going on around them. "They're too anxious to actually go asleep. You can't close your door and get on with your life like you can with a home, there's always other people around." Shauna and her two kids also spent time living in the Clarion Hotel in Liffey Valley before being moved to a hub. While they lived life from one night to the next, not knowing when they would be told to leave, the one good thing about the hotel was privacy. "Living in a hotel is isolating but at least you can spend quality time with your kids, you can be a family without other people interfering. In here, you've loads of staff members, you've loads of families and you can't get a breather or a bit of peace. "It's impacted my children dramatically. Their behaviour has gone off the walls. "There's no listening, they're constantly fighting. I brought my kids up as best I could but in these situations you can't even parent correctly." A recent survey of 1,600 taxpayers nationwide about Budget 2019 revealed 50pc of respondents believe measures to tackle the housing crisis should top this year's priority list. For Shauna, her experience of homelessness doesn't fill her with much hope that anything will change anytime soon. "They're wasting money on building hubs just to push people away to make it look like there's not as many homeless people. This isn't a normal living environment, to throw people in a room and ask them to pay 45 a week... If you had a Dublin City Council house you wouldn't be paying that a week. "I was on the housing list for nine years and since I became homeless, those nine years waiting count for nothing. "Since I'm been here [in the hub], I haven't gone down on the list, but before when I was in B&Bs and hotels I shot down the list. With the hubs, because you pay your rent, they think we'll leave them to the side, they're secure enough for now. "It's not secure being stuck in a room with two kids in bunkbeds. It's not right, all of us are on top of each other. They've no play space, the kids' behaviour is up the walls. I've nowhere to go to get a breather for five minutes. "This whole situation just takes over our heads. They're young children, they don't know how to express it and they don't understand it." The Dublin mother recently participated in a heartbreaking documentary which highlights the plight of young families living in emergency accommodation. 'Through the Cracks' followed three Irish families who have or are currently living in state-funded emergency accommodation. It was recently screened before a number of TDs and Senators in Leinster House. Dr Rory Hearne, lecturer at Maynooth University, spoke at the event about how Ireland's homeless crisis is continuing to get worse. There are currently 530 families living in 20 hubs in Dublin, with more hubs being developed in Galway, Louth, Kildare and Limerick. 233 new families presented as homeless in June 2018, up from 179 in January 2018. Research carried out by Dr Hearne said families found living in hubs is like "living in a prison", it doesn't feel like a home and there's a sense of ontological insecurity. Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy previously said "we know family hubs are the best response, not hotels". But Dr Hearne says their research suggests otherwise. "Family hubs are not homes," he said. The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) has warned of "disastrous" consequences for farming in Northern Ireland should the UK crash out of the EU. The UFU's comments follow publication of the latest technical papers from the British government on a 'no deal' exit. Fears that an administrative trade embargo on food and drink between the EU and UK has also sparked massive concerns. UFU president Ivor Ferguson described the 'no deal' papers as "completely unacceptable" to farmers in the North. "The papers confirm what we already knew: a 'no deal' Brexit is bad for farming," he said. "The latest notices include one which relates to the export of animals and animal products and suggests we would face a cliff-edge scenario if we leave the EU with no deal. "This is completely unacceptable and would be disastrous for farming in Northern Ireland, particularly for our sheep industry, and for the economy." Meanwhile, suggestions from EU officials that the UK faces a six-month wait to be certified as an approved third-country supplier of food and drink in a 'no deal' Brexit scenario has compounded farmers' fears across Britain and Northern Ireland. The National Farmers' Union (NFU) has estimated that meat processing plants in Britain and Northern Ireland that currently export to the EU will have to undergo individual audits by British and EU authorities in the event of a 'no deal' Brexit. Such a process will take around six months, the NFU estimate, and will have to be replicated for all UK-based companies supplying food and drink to the EU. Embargo "What we are talking about in effect is a six-month trade embargo until such time as we can get the product in, from that point we will face the European's external tariff wall - meaning we will be priced out of the market," said the NFU's director general, Terry Jones. It has been suggested that the British government has plans in place to allow goods enter the UK without checks and at reduced tariff rates. The EU could introduce emergency legislation to keep food from Britain flowing, but such a decision is unlikely to be taken ahead of the UK's exit. Any disruption in trade between the UK and EU has massive implications for both farmers and processors on both sides of the Irish border. Meat factories in the south slaughter 370,000 sheep and lambs from the North each year, while dairies in the Republic process around 800m litres of milk produced in Northern Ireland. Similarly, Northern slaughter plants process a significant proportion of pigs from the South. The Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed has signalled that he will not give in to a demand from the IFA for a new 200 payment for suckler cows. Speaking at a meeting of the Dail Agriculture Committee last night he described the demand as "effectively a coupled payment" and said it is not the direction of travel Ireland should go in the context of our climate change obligations. "Whatever we do it needs to follow the direction of travel we have being going in terms of the Beef Data and Genomics programme," he said. However, Minister Creed told members of the committee that he is in the middle of Budget preparations and said he is "aware" of the sector, which some may view as a signal that next Tuesday's Budget may yet see some measures for the sector. Earlier in the meeting, the Minister said he accepted that there are challenges in the beef sector. However, he said the extent to which there is a flight from suckler cows in the country can be overstated. "It's important that we dont do that. There was always an expectation regarding dairy quotas going that there would be a rebalancing. "That hasnt happened to the extent that many experts predicted that it would. Minister Creed also highlighted that many suckler farmers on marginal land were beneficiaries of increased ANC payments. Meanwhile, speaking at the IFA Beef and Suckler campaign meeting in Ballinasloe this week, IFA President Joe Healy said Minister Creed has one week left before the Budget to secure additional support for sucklers. Time is fast running out before the Budget for Minister Creed, and its vitally important that he delivers for sucklers next week. IFA President Joe Healy leads farmers on a protest at the Department of Agriculture on Kildare Street. Picture: Finbarr O'Rourke The Irish Farmers Association has said the Government should see their protest outside the Department of Agriculture today as a warning shot. Speaking to beef farmers, at a protest in Dublin today IFA President Joe Healy said the Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed must stop standing 'idly by as beef farming goes down the tubes'. Joe Healy said the protest is a warning shot for Minister Creed and hit out at the Beef Forum. Under the Ministers Chairmanship, the Forum has become a mudguard for inaction. It isnt even a talking shop. Recent meetings have become death by powerpoint as farmers get presentation after presentation designed to run down the clock. There is no real engagement on the key issues, he said. The Minister hasnt lifted a finger while the factories have robbed farmers by systematically cutting cattle prices. At the same time, prices to farmers are rising in our main export market in the UK. He said that while Minister Creed was trying to wash his hands in relation to beef prices he has no excuse next Tuesday in the Budget. "He must show beef farmers that he is on their side by providing additional support for the Suckler sector," he said. However, a spokesperson for the Minister said the Government is strongly committed to supporting Irelands beef farmers and developing Irelands Beef sector. "The Minister fully recognises it has been a very challenging year for farmers in the context of weather events and fodder issues. "However to be clear - Minister Creed cannot legally have any role to play in determining the price beef farmers get from the factories nor can he intervene in this process. Joe Healy tells farmers that the Beef Forum has been a waste of time. #IFABeefprotest pic.twitter.com/shhsaobb42 Irish Farmers' Association (@IFAmedia) October 3, 2018 "The Minister will robustly articulate the views of farmers to meat industry representatives at this weeks beef roundtable in the regrettable absence of the farm bodies, the spokesperson said. However, Joe Healy said the factories have used Minister Creed, flying around the world opening markets and driving exports, while at the same time cutting prices paid to farmers. What has happened this year is a real case of the tail wagging the dog and farmers are being asked to carry the costs in loss making beef prices. The IFA President said the income pressure on cattle farms was a breaking point, following the severe weather conditions all year and the massive increase in costs. Factories have torn the hell out of prices and forced them down well below the cost of production. This also eroded confidence in the market place and wrecked the mart price for weanlings and stores. During this period, despite repeated requests, the Minister never lifted a finger against the factories. He called in the banks, he worked with the co-ops on the fodder issue but never said a word to the meat factories. He gave them free rein and let them run amok. Cormac Healy of Meat Industry Ireland (MII), the Ibec group which represents the meat processing sector has said that recent criticism of beef processors on beef price performance fails to recognise the strong price paid throughout the year, with Irish cattle price running at 107pc of EU average price year-to-date and also ignores the challenging market environment at play since mid-summer, particularly across Northern Europe. Frustration with the recent weakening in Irish cattle price is understandable but criticism of beef processors ahead of the upcoming Beef Forum fails to take into account market realities and the fact that the year-to-date price paid for Irish cattle remains ahead of last year and only in the last two weeks have current prices dropped below the corresponding period last year. Mr Healy said the exceptionally high beef supplies across all EU markets has put pressure on manufacturing beef prices, leaner manufacturing products in particular. Also, there are heightened sensitivities around imported product in some markets, which has weakened demand and promotional opportunities for Irish beef. The Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed, urged meat processors to engage positively with their farmer suppliers at today's Beef Forum, as the IFA led a protest outside the meeting. Today's Beef Forum was the 12th and Minister Creed said he acknowledged that this has been a difficult year for the sector in terms of weather and the range of challenges associated with it'. He urged beef processors to engage positively with their farmer suppliers and said the farmer position in the supply chain must be secured if there is to be a future for the sector. It comes as IFA led a farmer protest outside the meeting, with ICMSA and ICSA not engaging to support the IFA protest. The Beef Roundtable included discussions on the potential for producer organisations and the development of new technologies as ways of adding value along the whole supply chain. The Beef Roundtable also heard updates on the new CAP post-2020, and the market outlook for 2019. peaking to beef farmers, at a protest in Dublin today IFA President Joe Healy said the Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed must stop standing 'idly by as beef farming goes down the tubes'. Expand Close Farmers outside the department of Agriculture where the Beef Forum was taking place. Picture: Finbarr O'Rourke / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Farmers outside the department of Agriculture where the Beef Forum was taking place. Picture: Finbarr O'Rourke IFA president told protesting farmers that under the Ministers Chairmanship, the Forum has become a mudguard for inaction. "It isnt even a talking shop. Recent meetings have become death by powerpoint as farmers get presentation after presentation designed to run down the clock. There is no real engagement on the key issues, he said. The Minister hasnt lifted a finger while the factories have robbed farmers by systematically cutting cattle prices. At the same time, prices to farmers are rising in our main export market in the UK. A wind farm controlled by a company whose directors include meat baron Bert Allen has escaped punishment over "unauthorised" construction and failing to have proper consent for all its power-generation, a watchdog has ruled. The Co Wexford wind farm did not have the necessary consent to generate all the 42MW of power it could harness, according to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU). But following an investigation, the CRU has decided that it is not in the public interest to take enforcement action. "In 2016, CRU was notified that unauthorised construction of part of a wind farm development had potentially taken place a number of years prior," it said in a determination published this week. It added that the information had come to light when the Ballywater Wind Farm, ultimately owned by the Allen family's Lanber Group, was being sold and due diligence was being undertaken by the buyer. In late 2015, it was bought by energy firm Gaelectric from Lanber. Mr Allen was a major shareholder in Gaelectric at the time and remains a shareholder in the now troubled firm. Mr Allen and his family have extensive business interests in sectors including property. They sold their 50pc stake in Slaney Foods in 2016 to Larry Goodman's ABP for an estimated 250m. The other 50pc is owned by Fane Valley Group. In 2015, Gaelectric paid 43.8m in cash to purchase three wind farms, including the Ballywater operation. The CRU said that the Ballywater Wind Farm had consent for just 31.5MW of output, which had been secured in 2005, but that all other statutory consents for the full 42MW development were held. The CRU said there had been a "lack of resultant negative impact" on the grid system in the intervening period. "The responsibility for acquiring all relevant and proper consents rests with applicants," noted the CRU in its determination. "To further monitor compliance with this, on foot of the above incident CRU has put in place a process with Eirgrid that enables both parties to identify such non-compliances in order to take action," it added. "This process has been in place since June 2018 and is part of the Eirgrid assessment for a generation station operating certificate." Ryanair pilots in Poland have been given a deadline of next Sunday to sign up to new contracts that will see them working for the carrier's new subsidiary there, Ryanair Sun, or risk losing their jobs in Poland. Ryanair COO Peter Bellew has written to Ryanair pilots in Poland who have not yet signed the new contracts, claiming they may have "fallen victim" to a "competitor misinformation campaign". Mr Bellew told Ryanair pilots in Poland last month of Ryanair's decision to discontinue operation of its Polish bases later this year, and of opportunities with Ryanair's Warsaw Aviation unit, which was established to succeed the low-cost carrier parent in the country. Warsaw Aviation has a Polish air operator's certificate (AOC), while Ryanair operates under an Irish AOC. "Warsaw Aviation's new Polish law contract is an improvement on the market terms offered by the national airline and charter airlines in Poland," Mr Bellew wrote in a letter to Ryanair pilots in Poland seen by the Irish Independent. "Operating for a Polish AOC will enable crew to obtain higher take-home pay by paying tax in Poland instead of Ireland," the Ryanair executive said in the letter. He added: "Please do not be misled by fake promises that competitor unions will secure better pay or contract terms for you." Pilots signing a Warsaw Aviation contract will operate as a contractor selling their services to the firm. Mr Bellew added that there are some "limited transfer opportunities" for pilots who do not wish to work for Ryanair Sun. Mortgage borrowers are getting older as it takes longer to save for a deposit for a property. New research shows that the average buyer is now four years older than the age of borrowers in the late 2000s. First-time buyers are now 34 years on average when they get the keys to their own home. This is up from around 31 back in 2003, according to the Central Bank. Second-time buyers are now 41 on average, up from 38 a couple of years ago. Read More The fact people are taking out their first mortgage later in life means some people are going to end up still paying off the loan in retirement. The ageing of borrowers reflects the population getting older, and the fact that many potential buyers are forced to rent longer than they want to because of the difficulty in getting the funds in place to put down a deposit on a property. Central Bank rules mean first-time buyers must have a down payment of at least 10pc, with 20pc required by other borrowers. People here are also taking out longer-term mortgages than in other European countries, according to the Central Bank report 'Household Credit Market Report 2018'. A new buyer typically takes out a 29-year mortgage in this country. Those who are trading up have an average term of 24 years. In contrast, a typical mortgage in France is paid back over 18 years. Germans buy their homes over an average period of 25 years. The upshot is there has been an increase in this country in the number of first-time buyers who will still be paying off their mortgages when they are between the ages of 65 and 70 since 2003. But there has been a fall in the numbers who will still be in mortgage debt in their 70s. Almost half of first-time buyers had loan terms of between 30 to 34 years. Half of second-time buyers had a loan term of under 25 years. Typical first-time buyers have a deposit that represents 30pc of the value of the property. They were borrowing an average of 274,000 in Dublin, for a property that is priced at 367,000, in the first half of this year. This is compared with 185,987 for new buyers outside Dublin. The average Dublin income for a new buyer was 85,334, and 66,728 for buyers outside Dublin. First-time buyers are generally borrowing 3.1 times their income. The Web Summit looks set to remain in Lisbon for up to five more years, according to reports in the Portuguese media. The company, led by founder Paddy Cosgrave, is said to have concluded negotiations with the Portuguese government for an extension to its three-year Lisbon deal. Mr Cosgrave has previously said he hoped to keep the event in the city. A number of European cities had been competing to host the conference, which will see 60,000 attend next month. The Web Summit employs over 100 people in Dublin. Warning: We have to do everything to avoid a new Greece, said European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker. Photo: Getty Images Italian assets were roiled yet again after a prominent eurosceptic said that the nation could resolve its debt problems with its own currency. The yield on the nation's 10-year bonds touched the highest level in more than four years after Claudio Borghi, head of the budget committee in the lower house of the Italian parliament, said that the euro was "not sufficient" to solve Italy's fiscal issues. Mr Borghi is a senior policy maker with the League, part of the country's government, Though he played down his comments subsequently, the common currency declined. Mr Borghi's comments come at a time of intense vulnerability for Italian assets, which have been battered amid investor concern over the country's proposed budget deficit of 2.4pc for 2019. Plans by the populist coalition to boost spending to fulfil campaign pledges are fuelling speculation over the sustainability of the nation's debt load. "It has brought up these old Italexit fears which are weighing on the euro," said Thu Lan Nguyen, a foreign-exchange strategist at Commerzbank AG in Frankfurt. "This is what this whole issue is really about - whether there is a break up of the eurozone or not." Mr Borghi, however, said later that the government has no plan to exit the euro. "There is no plan to leave the euro within this government regardless of my personal conviction," he told Bloomberg Television. He also defended the budget target, saying: "We did not get the 2.4pc deficit number out of a bag." Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte dismissed Mr Borghi's remarks as "personal opinion". Italian 10-year bond yields rose to 3.44pc, the highest since March 2014. The spread - or excess charged by investors - over their German peers climbed 20 basis points to 3.02pc. The euro dropped as much as 0.6pc to $1.1505, the lowest level since August 20. The FTSEMIB Index of shares fell as much as 2pc to the lowest level since April 2017, before paring losses. Shares of Banco BPM were halted for trading after falling 5pc. Jean-Claude Juncker, president of the European Commission, said that "we have to do everything to avoid a new Greece." The beleaguered nation is still sub-investment grade for all four of the credit-rating agencies. Italy is due for review by Moody's Investors Service and S&P Global Ratings later this month. Both have the nation two notches above junk. Analysts at Toronto-Dominion Bank warned that the euro could drop as low as $1.13, which would be the lowest level in more than a year should political headlines keep emanating from the euro area's third-largest economy. "The situation is going to play out repeatedly over the next several weeks and markets will need to re-calibrate to the rhetoric," said Ned Rumpeltin, European head of foreign-exchange strategy. We have to do everything to avoid a new Greece this time an Italy crisis (stock picture) Italy's populist government has decided to press the self-destruct button with its forthcoming budget. How should the rest of the EU react? The European Commission and other governments are right to demand that Rome follows the rules. But there's no point in ratcheting up the rhetoric, as Jean-Claude Juncker did with his comparison to Greece. It's best to leave it to investors, who are making it clear enough what they think of the coalition's strategy. Last Thursday, the Italian administration said it would target a budget deficit of 2.4pc of gross domestic product next year, much higher than the previous government's aspiration. The ruling League and Five Star Movement said they would use the extra borrowing to lift current spending, including lowering the pension age. To make things worse, there's still no document outlining what Italy's future fiscal strategy will be. By some accounts, it will keep the 2.4pc target for each of the next three years. The financial markets have understandably taken fright, sending 10-year bond yields to their highest since 2014. On Monday, Italy's technocratic finance minister Giovanni Tria had the daunting task of explaining Rome's strategy to his European colleagues. He favoured a lower fiscal target, so his credibility has been significantly tarnished. If Tria wanted to reassure his partners, his mission was a failure. The Dutch finance minister, Wopke Hoekstra, said he was "somewhat less optimistic." Mr Juncker, president of the European Commission, went much further. "We have to do everything to avoid a new Greece - this time an Italy - crisis," he said. He added that Italy would not get special treatment, since doing that for everyone "would mean the end of the euro". Brussels is right to demand that Italy sticks to the rules. True, the EU's fiscal guidelines have been relaxed in recent years to accommodate Europe's snail-paced recovery. But Italy's proposed plans make a mockery of Europe's rulebook, and of common sense. They casually brush aside the country's very high public debt and the fact that it isn't in recession. They seem to offer no coherent medium-term strategy to reduce the deficit. And they double down on unproductive current spending, while doing little to boost investment. The Commission might have offered some leniency for a better-designed budget. In its current form, it would be right to reject it. Where Juncker and his colleagues need to be careful, though, is in how they deliver the message. The League and Five Star leaders, Matteo Salvini and Luigi Di Maio, thrive politically by standing up to Brussels. They're already portraying their budget as a gift to the Italian people, which wicked eurocrats want to stop. And Italian voters are behind them, for now. A recent poll shows Five Star is recovering support, while the League's surge in post-election popularity remains stable. A far cannier strategy would be to simply apply the rules, without dramatising the clash. The European Central Bank is stepping back from its scheme of quantitative easing, making bond investors much more careful about where to lend their money. Italy is giving them every reason to go elsewhere. Far better to let Di Maio and Salvini sell the consequences of that to Italians, than offer them up a convenient outsider to pour hate on. Obstinate: We are not turning back from the 2.4pc target... We will not backtrack by a millimetre, said Luigi Di Maio, deputy prime minister. Photo: Reuters/Mohamed Abd El Ghany/File Photo Italy defied pressure from Brussels and its eurozone partners on Tuesday to water down ambitious budget plans, threatening to sue EU officials it said were to blame for a deepening sell-off on Rome's financial markets. The government last week set a deficit target of 2.4pc of economic output for the next three years, tripling its predecessor's goal in a move that unnerved investors and prompted criticism from the European Commission. "We are not turning back from the 2.4pc target... We will not backtrack by a millimetre," Luigi Di Maio, deputy prime minister and leader of the anti-establishment 5-Star, said. Mr Di Maio said there was "no doubt" the leaders of France and Germany wanted the Italian government to fall, while one lawmaker said the country would be better off without the euro. Eurozone finance ministers meeting in Luxembourg said Italy, whose representative Giovanni Tria was a notable absentee, needed to toe the fiscal line. "The majority of the member states will clearly ask and demand that these (EU budget) rules are observed," said Austrian minister Hartwig Loger, whose country holds the rotating EU presidency. European Commission vice-president Valdis Dombrovskis said the current draft appeared not to comply with the rules, though Brussels was open to dialogue. But, Italy's other deputy Prime Minister, right-wing League leader Matteo Salvini, said it might seek compensation from the EU over Italy's rising borrowing costs. Investors are making their feeling on Unilevers structural change known (PA) Unilever is facing further opposition to its move from London to Rotterdam as another shareholder signalled its intention to vote against the plan. Royal London Asset Management has joined a chorus of investors in opposing the proposal, which will see the Ben & Jerry's owner scrap its Anglo-Dutch dual listing and relocate its headquarters to the Netherlands. Mike Fox, head of sustainable investments at Royal London Asset Management, said: "Many UK Unilever shareholders voting for the upcoming resolution are effectively voting for forced divestment of their holding. "Unilever might be able to convince European shareholders that the move makes sense for the company and for them as investors in the long term, but it's hard for a UK investor to see an incentive to vote in favour. "We think that Unilever is a high-quality company, both in its own right and as a key constituent of a number of UK indices, and have therefore decided to vote against the upcoming resolution." The asset manager owns 0.72pc of Unilever, worth approximately 360m. Royal London also warned that, should the motion succeed, it would be forced to sell its holding in Unilever across a number of funds, something not in the interest of its clients. A growing number of shareholders have come out against the move in recent weeks, setting up a showdown for when investors vote on the plans on October 25 and 26. Those voicing their disdain include Columbia Threadneedle, Legal &General Investment Management, Aviva Investors, Lindsell Train, M&G Investments, and Brewin Dolphin. Unilever first announced plans to "simplify" the business from two legal entities into a single one, incorporated in Rotterdam, in March. It dealt a major blow to the UK Government and its efforts to uphold Britain's status as a centre for business after Brexit. But Unilever has insisted the move to Rotterdam has "nothing to do with Brexit". It also said at the time that its 7,300 workers in the UK and 3,100 in the Netherlands will be unaffected by the changes. Unilever, which is behind well-known household brands such as Ben & Jerry's ice cream and Lipton teas, employs around 169,000 people around the world. If the firm goes ahead with the restructure, Unilever's shares are unlikely to continue trading in the FTSE 100 in the wake of the move. Without a UK headquarters, Unilever is expected to fall short of requirements which would allow a listing on the FTSE 100, where its shares currently trade. The shares would continue to trade on the London Stock Exchange, but would no longer be listed on a benchmark index. Michael Flatley has insisted his new film Blackbird is "not a vanity project". The former Lord of the Dance star wrote, directed, and produced the film and he plays the lead role of a Bond-style secret agent. Filmed in Barbados, where Flatley has a home, it also stars Eric Roberts, and Patrick Bergin as well as British actress Nicole Evans as his love interest. Speaking to the Hollywood Reporter, he rejected the notion that the film is a vanity project. Expand Close Blackbird poster / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Blackbird poster "I'm well aware of that. And I want to be clear about this I didn't finance it because I wanted to make a vanity project. It would have just taken too long to raise the money, and I didn't know what I'd be doing next year. And when the window was there, we had to get it done. We've since had several offers already for people to come in and take the film, which is really good. So it won't be on my dime at the end of the day." He went on to explain that the decision to oversee so many aspects of the film was in part down to saving money. Expand Close Blackbird poster / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Blackbird poster "And in answering the would-be critics, the reason I did it this way was because, in my shows over all these years, I'm used to directing it, producing it, starring in it and sweeping up the place. And that's kind of what I did on this film. I was my own cheapest labor to do as much of it as I could." The synopsis for the movie reads, "Troubled secret agent 'Blackbird' abruptly retires from service and opens a luxurious nightclub in the Caribbean to escape the dark shadows of his past. An old flame arrives and reignites love in his life but she brings danger with her." Posters for the film were unleashed in July and drew criticism for not naming Evans even though she featured prominently alongside her male co-stars. Another poster came under fire for featuring a gaggle of beautiful women in bikinis with the three male stars. Flatley claims he had "nothing to do with" making the posters which omitted Evans' name and he said that she is actually the "real star" of the movie, which he has billed as mainly a love story, but also a "bit of a thriller". Video of the Day He also said it's a "completely different movie" to Bond and playing 007 is "not something I aspire to". Flatley revealed that they have had "several offers" from international distributors but have not accepted on yet. A UK and Ireland release date has yet to be announced. Legendary actor Brian Dennehy has heaped huge praise on his The Seagull co-star Saoirse Ronan. The 80-year-old actor, who has starred in films including Gorky Park, Cocoon, To Catch a Killer, and Romeo + Juliet, and opposite actors including Leonardo DiCaprio and Cate Blanchett, singled out the 24-year-old Carlow star in an interview with AV Club. "That kid is on her way to being maybe the biggest star ever in the history of the movies. She is amazing," he said. He added, "She is easily, easily the most talented actor I have ever worked with, and thats saying something. She is the most brilliantly talented actor I have ever worked with. She has a gift that is immeasurable. And every time she works, it knocks people out." Expand Close NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 21: Brian Dennehy and Annette Bening attend "The Seagull" premiere during the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival at BMCC Tribeca PAC on April 21, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 21: Brian Dennehy and Annette Bening attend "The Seagull" premiere during the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival at BMCC Tribeca PAC on April 21, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival) The actors star opposite Annette Bening and Elizabeth Moss in The Seagull, which is Michael Mayer's big screen adaptation of Chekhov's stage play. It was filmed in the summer of 2015 and released earlier this year. Speaking about her role in Atonement, which she filmed when she was just 11, and which earned her a Best Supporting Actress nomination, Dennehy said she was "mind-boggling" and that as an actor standing opposite her in a scene "you forget your lines because she is so extraordinary". Dennehy praised her role choices and the fact that she films the movie, does the awards ceremonies, but then "disappears". Saoirse was nominated for the Best Actress Oscar this year for role in Lady Bird. It was her third nomination after a Best Actress nod for Brooklyn in 2016, and Atonement. "She never has to worry about the kind of material shes going to be given. She never has to worry about how her career is going, because shes astounding. Astounding," he continued. "And also terrific to be around, fun. Shes a nice girl. Shes respectful and friendly. Shes not one of these people who is just, 'I cant stand the atmosphere. Ive got to go to the place and be by myself. Ill be ready when Im ready.' She doesnt do any of that s**t. Shes normal and natural and sweet. And then, all of the sudden, she gets in front of a camera and - bing! - she blows the f***in wheels off." He continued, "Shes the only actor - male, female, grown-up, adult - the only one, by a mile, who just dazzles you. The simplicity. Her simplicity. The fact that she always plays against the grain of the scene. I mean, she can be very big. She can be very dramatic and very funny, but whatever she does - whatever she f***in does - surprises you." Video of the Day Dennehy also hailed Saoirse as an "incredible talent", adding, "Shes the greatest acting talent Ive ever worked with, and I have worked with everybody. Ive worked with great actors. And shes a great actor, but theres something else there. Theres something else going on with her. I dont know what it is, but shes got these eyes that look like theyre 10,000 years old and have seen everything." He clarified that he did not mean she looks old but that she "understands things" and concluded by saying, "As far as Im concerned, theres her, and then theres other people. Shes in a class by herself, literally." A Chinese-born garda, who alleges he was bullied and racially abused by colleagues, is bringing a High Court action against the Garda Commissioner. The personal injuries lawsuit was initiated by Deming Gao (37) on Monday. The civil case comes just months after Garda Gao succeeded in judicial review proceedings relating to the reclassification of his illness after he went on sick leave. Details of what is involved in the latest case have yet to be revealed. A solicitor for the garda declined to comment and a statement of claim has yet to be filed. Garda Gao is a naturalised Irish citizen and has been a member of the force since 2009, serving in Dun Laoghaire and Shankill in Co Dublin. The High Court previously heard he made a number of allegations to the Garda Human Resources Directorate in June 2017. He claimed that over a number of years he was subject to racial abuse, harassment and bullying by colleagues. Two formal complaints of bullying were also made by the garda in February and May 2017, both of which were investigated by Garda chief superintendents. The first investigation found there was insufficient evidence to uphold the complaint, while the second complaint was not upheld. The outcome of both inquiries has been appealed. Sean Dunne was one just one of several prominent Celtic Tiger-era developers to hit the wall during the financial crash. But unlike others who put their heads down and came out the other side of bankruptcy, he will still be grappling with it for many years to come. The Carlow-born property developer is in a somewhat unusual position in that he is involved in bankruptcy processes in two countries, Ireland and the US. This is because shortly after filing for bankruptcy in Connecticut in 2013 with debts of around 700m, he was also adjudicated bankrupt by the High Court in Dublin, on foot of an application from Ulster Bank. Since then, bankruptcy proceedings have taken up considerable court time in Ireland, the US and South Africa. At the heart of matters are claims Mr Dunne transferred tens of millions of euro worth of assets to his wife, former newspaper columnist Gayle Killilea, and that he still controls and benefits from them. After the couple moved to the US, Ms Killilea reinvented herself as a property developer in her own right and was linked to various developments in Connecticut and New York. However, Mr Dunne's US bankruptcy trustee Richard Coan has claimed the property development businesses she owns are actually controlled by Mr Dunne. Both Mr Dunne and Ms Killilea deny any wrongdoing. While they admit assets were transferred, they say these were lawful transactions which occurred at a time when he was fully solvent. The High Court in Dublin was last year told the couple were legally separated. Mr Coan has brought proceedings aimed at reversing the transfers, but the case has moved slowly amid wrangling over discovery. Earlier this year, a US judge threatened Mr Dunne with the prospect of jail if he defied a subpoena requiring him to disclose emails about his business dealings. He had already been held in contempt amid claims he omitted "enormous amounts" of material sought by Mr Coan. Back in Ireland things have been no less fraught. Mr Dunne had been due to be automatically discharged from bankruptcy two years ago, but the Official Assignee, Chris Lehane, says he has been frustrated by a lack of co-operation. His application for the bankruptcy period to be extended to allow investigations into Mr Dunne's estate to continue was granted by Ms Justice Caroline Costello yesterday. The judge extended the period by 12 years, finding Mr Dunne was a "deeply dishonest" witness. Among other matters, Mr Lehane says he has been unable to properly assess Mr Dunne's income and assets for the purpose of assessing his ability to make payments for his creditors' benefit, or the appropriate level of such payments. A judge told a claimant not to refer to her as love when addressing her during what was described as an exaggerated and unsuccessful 60,000 damages claim in the Circuit Civil Court today Wednesday. James Flynn, a 46-year-old salesman at outdoor markets throughout Munster, kept addressing defence counsel Adrianne Fields as 'love' but when he adopted the same amorous approach with the court, Judge Sarah Berkeley told him: Dont call me love. Flynn, of St Marys Terrace, Rathkeale, Co Limerick, had sued Dublin City Council roads engineer Alec Dundon, of Primrose Avenue, Phibsborough, Dublin 7, for damages for injuries arising from a rear ending at a Toll Plaza, at Clonadacasey, Portlaoise, Co Laois, on 15th October 2015. When reprimanded by Judge Berkeley he made no such further endearing asides to the court and addressed Ms Fields thereafter as lady. Ms Fields, who appeared with Fiona Mockler of Newman Solicitors, Dublin, for Mr Dundon, told the court liability was conceded in the case which had become an assessment of damages only. Flynn told the court that he was a passenger in a box van driven by his brother-in-law Michael OBrien which had been reversed into by Dundons car at the Toll Plaza. Despite wearing his seat belt he had been slapped forward against the dash, injuring the left side of his neck and shoulder. He said he suffered occasionally from loss of memory and gave various estimates of speeds between 40 to 70 miles an hour that the van may have been approaching the Toll Plaza when Mr Dundon reversed at speed into the front of the van as he attempted to jump lanes. Mr Flynn said he had been taken to hospital by ambulance but had little memory of exactly how the accident or his injuries occurred. He could recall a loud bang when the vehicles collided and hitting the dash. Flynn explained from the start of the case that he suffered from a serious ear infection which made him very hard of hearing and all participants in the case had agreed they would raise their voices so that he could hear them. When at one stage he said he was becoming frightened because of the manner in which Ms Fields was roaring at him, Judge Berkeley reassured him in a moderate voice that voices had to be raised so he could hear them. It appears you are hearing certain things without difficulty, may I add, Judge Berkeley told him. Ms Fields said Mr Dundon was conceding he had reversed into the front of Mr Flynns brother-in-laws van but defence witnesses would be alleging the collision was a very minor tip of the bumpers. Facing a barrage of questions during Ms Fields cross examination about the accident and medical examinations, Mr Flynn referred on several occasions to his intermittent loss of memory and said he may not have heard or may have misunderstood questions put to him by a doctor examining him on behalf of the defendant. He denied that a pain in the left side of his neck on the day of the accident had magically jumped to the right side when only recently examined by the defence doctor. He agreed he had sued for damages in accidents in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2007 and 2010 and, while having withdrawn some of them, had been awarded 90,000 in an accident in which he had suffered serious leg injuries. When an engineer for Mr Dundon played back a cctv recording for Judge Berkeley of the vehicles slowly approaching the Toll Plaza and stopping, the judge directed it be considered by both Mr Flynns and Mr Dundons legal teams. A very short time later counsel for Mr Flynn told Judge Berkeley that having viewed the cctv footage and having spoken to Mr Flynn his client had decided to withdraw his claim. Judge Berkely ordered that Mr Flynn pay the legal costs of the case. She said that while there was a reference to his hearing problem in his medical reports there had been no mention of any loss of memory. The case having been withdrawn mid trial, costs follow Im afraid, Judge Berkeley said. Businessman Sean Dunne's Irish bankruptcy has been extended by 12 years over what a judge said was "wilful and deliberate" failure to co-operate with the trustee administering his estate, including not disclosing information about certain assets. Ms Justice Caroline Costello said Mr Dunne, who was in the High Court yesterday, was a "deeply dishonest" witness who clearly told lies about a number of matters. The judge said he engaged in "wholesale non-compliance" with his statutory obligations and demonstrated an "incredible" attitude. "I find it difficult to conceive of a bankrupt who could be more obstructive and less co-operative with the bankruptcy process," said Ms Justice Costello. The breaches of his statutory duties under the Bankruptcy Act were "extremely grave, serious, persistent and deliberate". She had "no hesitation" in concluding he had failed to co-operate and failed to disclose or had hidden information about assets from Official Assignee Chris Lehane. Mr Dunne, a prominent property developer during the Celtic Tiger era, has been embroiled in an unusual dual bankruptcy process in Ireland and the US. He had been due to automatically exit bankruptcy in Ireland in late July 2016, but will not now do so until April 2028. After the judgment, a statement issued by lawyers on behalf of Mr Dunne described the ruling as "extraordinary". The statement said he was "deeply disappointed and shocked" and considered the judgment failed to address adequately the very complex issues of dual bankruptcy in Ireland and the US. He intends to lodge an appeal as soon as possible, it added. Ulster Bank had in February 2013 petitioned the High Court to have Mr Dunne adjudicated bankrupt here after he had defaulted on some 164m in loans. A month later, Mr Dunne filed for bankruptcy in Connecticut when he claimed to have debts of $1bn and assets of $55m and a US bankruptcy trustee was appointed by a US court. The Irish bankruptcy proceedings continued and in July 2013 the Irish High Court adjudicated Mr Dunne bankrupt. Mr Lehane's solicitors had written to Mr Dunne on several occasions from July 2013 seeking his full co-operation with the bankruptcy process. In January 2016, Mr Dunne's attorneys wrote to the official assignee's lawyers saying their client wanted to be discharged from bankruptcy and that he would fully co-operate. Mr Lehane's solicitors replied asserting an absence of co-operation to date and welcomed the fact he had now decided to co-operate. They then sought information about several matters. The official assignee subsequently said he had yet to receive necessary information and brought proceedings opposing Mr Dunne's automatic discharge, which had been due in July 2016, to allow for continued investigations into the bankrupt's estate. The High Court may extend a bankruptcy by up to 15 years if it considers it necessary. Mr Dunne vehemently opposed any extension. He made various claims against the official assignee and argued that any extension would breach his property rights and was an attempt to inflict punishment. Judges at the Special Criminal Court will now deliver verdicts in the case of three Dubliners accused of murdering Gareth Hutch at the end of October. Mr Hutch (36), nephew of Gerry "the monk" Hutch was shot dead as he was getting into his car outside Avondale House flats on North Cumberland Street in Dublin on the morning of May 24, 2016. He died as a result of four gun shot injuries. At the opening of the trial in June, the prosecution told the court that the three co-accused each had their own part to play in bringing about the death of Mr Hutch. The prosecution contend that Jonathan Keogh (33) threatened to kill Mr Hutch the evening before the shooting, that Thomas Fox (31) and Regina Keogh (41) were instrumental in planning the murder, and Mr Keogh and another man, Mr AB, were the shooters. Mr Fox with an address at Rutland Court, Dublin 1, Ms Keogh from Avondale House, Cumberland Street North, Dublin 1 and Mr Keogh of Gloucester Place, Dublin 1, have pleaded not guilty to murdering Mr Hutch. Mr Fox has also denied unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9 mm handgun on May 23, 2016 at the same place. Mr Justice Tony Hunt presiding at the non-jury court, previously said the court would endeavour to deliver judgment in the case of the three co-accused, whose trial closed at the end of July, on October 8. However, Mr Justice Hunt informed counsel for the three Dubliners today that verdicts will now be handed down on October 26. The judge said it is a very laborious and time-consuming case and this has come through in the preparation of the verdicts. There are three separate verdicts and they dont have much in common. It wont be done for next Monday, he said, adding it would be done and dusted by October 26. The three co-accused, he said, were entitled to have their verdicts delivered as soon as they were ready and he apologised to them for keeping them waiting. We have to devote as much attention to avoid errors as much as possible, he remarked. Mr Justice Hunt also informed the court that the judgment would take between four and five hours to read out to the court. Prosecution counsel Paul Burns SC said in his closing speech at the end of July that the three co-accused had put considerable thought and preparation into Mr Hutchs truly shocking killing which was not a spur of the moment attack. The married father (32) was unanimously convicted of sexual assault by a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court jury earlier this year. Stock image A Dublin man who put his hand under a woman's skirt and groped her as she slept at a house party has been jailed for 11 months. The married father (32) who cannot be named to protect the woman's identity, was unanimously convicted of sexual assault by a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court jury earlier this year. Kieran Kelly BL, defending, submitted that his client maintains his stance that he wouldn't commit such an act as he can't accept he is the type of person who would do anything like that. The man had pleaded not guilty to sexual assault at a house party in Blanchardstown, Dublin, on June 21, 2015. He has no previous convictions. Garda John Walsh told Maurice Coffey BL, prosecuting, that the now 29-year-old woman had fallen asleep at the house after she couldn't get a taxi home. She later told gardai that she didn't remember how long she had been asleep, but she awoke to find a hand up her skirt and rubbing her vagina on the outside. She said when she opened her eyes, the hand moved away. A short time later she informed other people in the house what had happened and there was an altercation between the man and her friend. The woman in her victim impact statement described suffering from stress arising from the court case and how she had to stay off work for several days. She said she found it hard to believe someone would do something so invasive to another person. Mr Kelly submitted to Judge Karen O'Connor that his client could not accept his involvement in the offence. He said the man was a working family man. Judge O'Connor noted that the man was entitled to contest the trial but this meant there were less mitigating factors available to him. She said the offence was at the mid range of the lower end of offending. Hearing adjourned: Ana Kriegel was reported missing on May 14 from her home in Leixlip, Co Kildare. Her body was found in a disused farmhouse in Lucan, Co Dublin, three days later after a search operation. Photo: Austin Crowe Schoolgirl Anastasia Kriegel (14) died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head, an inquest has confirmed. Her grieving mother Geraldine relived the harrowing moment she had to identify her teenage daughter's body to gardai at Dublin Coroner's Court. The brutal cause of her violent death was read into evidence at the opening of an inquest yesterday. Her body was found at a disused farmhouse on May 17, three days after she was reported missing. Anastasia, who was known as Ana and was adopted from Russia aged two, was last seen alive when she left her house in Leixlip, Co Kildare, around 5pm on May 14. Gardai were alerted when she did not return home and a search was launched the following day. Her body was found at the farmhouse on the Clonee Road, Lucan, Co Dublin. She had suffered fatal blunt-force injuries. Her parents Patrick and Geraldine Kriegel attended the opening of the inquest into her death and were accompanied by Garda Liaison Officer Siobhan McIntyre. Ms Kriegel entered the witness box to give evidence of how she identified her daughter's remains. "On May 18 at 4pm, I and my husband identified our daughter Anastasia Eva Kriegel to Garda McIntyre," she said. Gda McIntyre, of Ronanstown garda station, confirmed this event took place at Dublin City Morgue and she formally identified the remains to pathology staff. A post-mortem conducted by State Pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy gave the cause of death as blunt force trauma to the head. Detective Inspector Mark O'Neill informed the coroner that "proceedings have been instituted against two persons in relation to Ana's death". Det Insp O'Neill made an application to the court for the inquest to be adjourned until after criminal proceedings are complete. Two teenagers have been charged with Ana's murder at Glenwood House, Clonee Road, Lucan, on May 14 last. Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane granted the adjournment as requested and explained the process to Ana's parents. "The inquest will not return to this court until and unless all criminal proceedings are concluded. An Garda Siochana will keep this office informed of developments," Dr Cullinane told Patrick and Geraldine Kriegel as they sat in the public gallery. "My deepest condolences to you and to the whole family on your loss in these tragic circumstances. "It is not required for you to come back to this court again before criminal proceedings are completed and if there is anything else we can assist you with please contact us." The inquest was formally adjourned until after criminal proceedings are complete. The Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces has denied there is a crisis as a result of poor pay rates and falling numbers - but he admits being confronted by "myriad" challenges. Vice-Admiral Mark Mellett is now seeking permission to make an oral submission to the public-sector pay commission to seek a wage rise across all ranks for his personnel. The military management has already lodged a joint written submission with the Department of Defence, setting out what he described as a robust case for a boost to pay rates, which are the lowest in the public sector. But he now wants to make a plea personally for wage increases that will remove pay from the top of his agenda and allow the Defence Forces to focus on other difficulties. These include problems retaining personnel - with the numbers leaving in the past year almost equal to those being recruited. He told the annual conference of Pdforra, the representative association for soldiers, sailors and air crew in the Defence Forces, in Castlebar yesterday that the Defence Forces must have enough men and women to tackle the challenges they faced. These included international state-sponsored espionage and cybercrime as well as violent extremists and terrorists. He said he accepted that people believed too little had been done but his job was to advise the Government and he had done so, particularly over the last 18 months. It came after Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin told the Dail that a large number of people were leaving the Forces due to low morale, poor conditions and bad pay. Mr Martin said there was a serious shortage of skilled people, such as bomb disposal experts and pilots, and two naval vessels were unable to sail due to lack of sailors, while a third vessel was relying on reservists. He said that there was a 30pc shortage of pilots in the Air Corps and large numbers of people were "buying themselves out" of the Forces generally. "The Government has failed the Army, failed the Defence Forces," Mr Martin said, adding that relations between the Forces and the Defence Department were described as "toxic." Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the issue of vessels being unable to sail would be dealt with by a report from the chief of staff to Junior Defence Minister Paul Kehoe. He said the Defence Forces had a large turnover of membership because it was a job for younger people. He said the leaving rate was 8pc but conceded that there were problems of skills shortages which were now being examined. Separately, the return of Irish peacekeeping troops from Syria has been delayed for several days. A mistake in completing their forms for clearance to travel was made in the Lebanese Embassy in London, with Lebanon incorrectly replacing Syria as their mission. Thousands of our brightest and best youngsters left these shores in pursuit of more viable job opportunities as the country languished in the fallout from the crash. Stock Image: PA Ireland is still feeling the after-effects of the graduate brain drain that robbed the country of youthful talent during the depths of the recession. Thousands of our brightest and best youngsters left these shores in pursuit of more viable job opportunities as the country languished in the fallout from the crash. In a phenomenon not seen since the 1980s, airports filled with new graduates, teachers included, who were forced to leave in search of income and employment security. Current teacher shortages can, in part, be traced back to that flight of graduates in the years after 2008. Figures from the Higher Education Authority (HEA) confirm the scale of the exodus. Among those who graduated in 2007, just before the crash, some 55pc had a job nine months later - of these 51pc were in Ireland and 4pc abroad. By 2009, 8pc of employed graduates were working abroad and by 2013 it had trebled to a peak of 12pc. Even though the jobs market here has recovered massively, the most recent available figures for 2016 showed that 8pc were working overseas nine months after graduation. While some of the brightest departed Ireland's shores forever, teachers at home were struggling through, with larger classes and without some of the extra classroom supports that help to level the playing field for the most disadvantaged. Cuts included withdrawal of resource teachers for Travellers and in English language support for children of the new wave of immigrants to Ireland. At the height of the austerity, the number of school psychologists was capped. A moratorium on filling promotional posts stretched schools further, with the absence of appointments to middle-management roles such as special needs co-ordinator and year heads that bring coherence to the running of schools that may have up to 1,000 pupils or more. The cuts were all the more keenly felt at a time when pupil numbers were rising and against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world that demanded a more modern approach. Increasingly, schools have relied on parents to make up the funding shortfall. A report for the Catholic Primary School Management Association earlier this year suggests that, in primary schools alone, parents forked out 46m to help pay basic bills such as heating and lighting. In higher education, the combination of rising student numbers and the reduction in capitation grants means that today - when averaged across their student intake - universities are getting only half of what they received from the State in 2008. The last three budgets have seen an increase in funding for education, bringing a reversal or alleviation of some of the cuts. But it remains a system in catch-up. Average pay rises of 3,300 for post-2011 entrants to the public service, including teachers, go a long way to closing the gap in the two-tier pay structure introduced at the height of the austerity era. Lower entrant pay scales have been a running sore for teachers more than anyone else and that deal may heal that wound, even if scars are left. Hopes are high that next week's Budget will bring a reversal of another big education cut, the slashing of the capitation grants that pay for schools' day-to-day running costs, which were deemed by many to be the most damaging of all the cost-saving measures imposed on education. Sympathy: Hanna OLeary signs the book of condolence for the men who drowned, in the church in Cahersiveen, Co Kerry. Photo: Gerry Mooney The families of three Latvian men who died in a fishing tragedy are expected to bring their bodies back to their home country next week. Anatolijs Teivens (57) and his friends Valerijs Klimentengvs (38) and Jurijs Burcves (30) got into difficulty when fishing off the Coonanna Peninsula in south Co Kerry on Sunday. Mr Teivens's body was recovered less than 50 metres from the shoreline about 7pm that day, while the bodies of the two other men were found next to the fibreglass boat they had gone out in. It is understood that the families of two of the men have decided they will be taken back to Latvia to be laid to rest. The family of the third man have not yet decided but are expected to do the same. The time it takes to repatriate the bodies will depend on how quickly the paperwork is processed, but it is expected to be within the next week. Assistance will be provided by the Latvian embassy in Dublin if required. The embassy passed on its condolences to the families and friends of the three men and said they had been liaising with the Irish authorities since the tragedy. Residents in Coonanna said the three fishermen were regular visitors to the peninsula, which is a short distance from the town of Cahersiveen. Yesterday, a bunch of flowers was left at the Coonanna Pier, offering condolences on behalf of the people of Cahersiveen. Candle Meanwhile, a book of condolences was also opened in the town's church. A steady number of locals visited the church throughout yesterday to leave a note in the book of condolences. Parish priest Fr Larry Kelly said a special Mass for the victims would take place on Saturday night. He added that a candle would be lit at every Mass and prayer service this week. "It's a huge tragedy," Fr Kelly said. "The people here are devastated and they feel for the families, it's so difficult for them." The family of an American man who died in a road accident during his "dream trip" to Northern Ireland on his honeymoon paid tribute to him thanking the public for their "kindness and support" after the tragedy. Michael Monroe (31) died after a crash last Tuesday. The accident happened near the Dark Hedges which feature in the popular television series Game of Thrones. His partner Caroline was also injured in the accident. The pair are from Orange in Connecticut. Carolines mother Aileen McKenna and Carolines brother Will Braaksma said they were heartbroken over the loss of "our sweet Michael". Michael and Caroline were on their honeymoon, a dream trip they planned and saved for, a year after their July 2017 wedding. Our tragic loss has been eased by the kindness and support of so many Irish people. We thank the neighbours and first responders at the accident scene, and the staff at both Causeway Coast & Glens and Altnagelvin Hospital." Ms McKenna and Mr Braaksma also paid tribute to those who helped the couple after the accident and appealed for their privacy to be respected. We are deeply appreciative of Bernadette who sat with Caroline in the hospital during those first terrible hours, and Grainne and Ciara who picked Carolines mother and brother up at Dublin airport and drove them three hours north to the hospital. "We are forever grateful to the police liaisons who have guided us through these awful and heart-breaking days and also to the Life After group who have done so much for us. Michael was a kind, loving man, a teacher beloved by his family, friends and students, but especially by his beautiful bride Caroline and their two dogs, Monty and Milo. Please respect our privacy as Caroline heals physically and grieves this dreadful loss, re-imagining a future without her sweet Michael. Thank you from the families of Caroline and Michael Monroe. Gardai were last night continuing to question a dozen people arrested as part of an investigation into what is feared to be the largest paedophile ring the country has ever seen. The 12, who include men and women aged from their 20s to their 70s, were all arrested over several hours on Monday at various locations in Munster. They were brought to different Garda stations in the southern and western regions. Most of them were previously quizzed earlier this year as part of the same probe, which is examining fears up to 16 children in four families were abused. Eleven people were arrested back in March but all were released without charge. Yesterday morning senior gardai extended the periods of detention for all 12 people currently in custody. Detectives have been quizzing them in relation to child sexual abuse and child exploitation offences. The suspects in the probe are all closely linked to each other but are spread across three counties. A team of gardai, including specialist interviewers, are conducting what has been described as a "massive" investigation which is being led by a superintendent. The case has attracted much attention, with Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin telling the Dail earlier this year that what was alleged was "shocking and may represent a first in this country". A separate review, focusing on the handling of the case by Garda and Tusla authorities, has yet to get underway. This review was announced in March by Children's Minister Katherine Zappone and Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan. It came after the Dail heard claims a whistleblower in the welfare sector had voiced concerns over the urgency of the response of State agencies when allegations first came to light. It is understood that terms of reference have been agreed between the Department of Justice and the Department of Children and Youth Affairs. However, these have been referred to the Attorney General, who has yet to sign off on them. All involved are anxious to ensure the review does not interfere with the ongoing Garda probe. The review is to be chaired by Special Rapporteur on Child Protection Dr Geoffrey Shannon. Issues in relation to co-operation and the exchange of information between various agencies are set to come under microscope. Dr Shannon previously uncovered major inadequacies in the way that information was shared between gardai and Tusla during an examination of the exercise of Garda powers to remove children from the home under Section 12 of the Childcare Act. A source familiar with the investigation said it will be the biggest abuse case in the history of the State, and explosive for the State agencies. Ms Zappone has described the case as "complex and serious". In response to a parliamentary question, she said it involved the "alleged child abuse and neglect" of 16 children in four families. The minister said that while there was no evidence of any serious mishandling of the case by Tusla or An Garda Siochana, she considered it good practice to arrange for a short, focused, independent, serious-incident review of the actions taken in the case. She said the primary purpose of this would be that any learning from the review could inform future work. A group of anti-abortion GPs who insist they do not want to be "forced" to refer a pregnant woman seeking a medical termination to another practice have appealed to Health Minister Simon Harris to "put on the brakes" and not push through the new law. Dr Andrew O'Regan, a GP in Kerry, said he was among a group of several hundred anti-abortion family doctors across the country who objected to the proposed legislation, which will make it mandatory for them to refer a woman looking for a termination as soon "as may be". "The Government needs to respect freedom of conscience," he said. He said there would be instances where as a doctor he did not believe it ias clinically right for a woman to have a termination. However, he would have to make arrangements for her to see a doctor who would carry out the abortion. "That is taking away my clinical autonomy," he told the 'Pat Kenny Show' on Newstalk radio yesterday. "The minister needs to put on the brakes and think this through." The Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Bill comes before the Dail this week for debate. It aims to give effect to the referendum result repealing the Eighth Amendment and extending the grounds for abortion. It allows for freedom of conscience for doctors to opt out of providing a medical or surgical abortion. However, it states that they must make arrangements to transfer the care of a women who asks them to provide an abortion to another medic who will carry out the procedure. Under the law, GPs will be allowed to provide a medical abortion up to 12 weeks of pregnancy. It is expected women who are between nine and 12 weeks' pregnant will be referred to hospital. Mr Harris met various groups yesterday, including the Irish College of General Practitioners and the National Women's Council in advance of bringing the legislation to the Dail with the aim of having it rolled out in January. The resistance of a small but significant number of GPs, who do not want to be involved in referral, will require some form of accommodation, although it is unclear how this would work. The Medical Council guidelines also require doctors who have a conscientious objection to a procedure to refer the patient to another medic. A public list of GPs willing to perform abortions is expected to be resisted because it could mean their surgeries are the target of anti-abortion protesters. A 24-hour phone line is expected to be set up to give women in a crisis pregnancy advice as well as direction if complications arise due to the medical abortion. Advocate for the elderly: Brendan Courtney is on the advisory council Fashion designer and broadcaster Brendan Courtney, who has become a strong advocate for the elderly, has been appointed to the first 23-member advisory council on Slaintecare, the blueprint for health service reform. Also appointed is Roisin Molloy, whose baby son Mark died in Portlaoise Hospital. The tragedy, and those of other parents, led to a statutory inquiry. The council will be chaired by Dr Tom Keane, the Irish-born doctor based in Canada, who was instrumental in overhauling cancer services. Health Minister Simon Harris said the council will provide advice and support to the Slaintecare programme office, headed by Laura Magahy. The radical 10-year Slaintecare plan has been costed at an additional 2.86bn annually over a decade. Other members of the council include Brian Fitzgerald, chief executive of the Beacon Hospital in Dublin, and Dr Colm Henry, interim chief clinical officer of the HSE. It also includes expertise from abroad including Josep Figueras, of the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, and Dr Helen Shearer, of the University of St Andrews, Scotland. In June of last year, Vertex Ireland reached an agreement with the HSE for the sale of Orkambi to around 600 people here (stock photo) Pharmaceutical firm Vertex Ireland's deal with the HSE on the blockbuster cystic fibrosis drug Orkambi sent revenues soaring at the company by 47pc to 35m. In June of last year, Vertex Ireland reached an agreement with the HSE for the sale of Orkambi to around 600 people here. The deal followed people living with cystic fibrosis (CF) taking to the streets demanding the Government provide free access to the drug which treats the underlying causes. Now, new accounts filed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Ireland) Ltd with the Companies Office show that revenues and profits soared at the Irish-based company following the Orkambi deal. They show that revenues increased by 47pc, or 11.15m, going from 23.84m to 35m, with operating profits going up by 46pc from 714,000 to 1.04m. The company recorded pre-tax profits of 8.7m, chiefly as a result of foreign exchange gains of 8m. In the accounts, the directors state that the increase in revenues and profits "is predominantly due to increase revenues" from the Orkambi deal. Vertex also sells another ground-breaking drug, Kalydeco, here to treat the rare genetic disease that primarily affects the lungs and the digestive system. Ireland has the highest incidence of CF in the world and yesterday, chief executive of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland Philip Watt said there "has been a very high take-up" of Orkambi here with around 450 people availing of it. The drug was earlier this year extended to children aged between six and 12. Mr Watt said that all 120 children in that age bracket with CF are now availing of Orkambi. "The feedback that we have received back from those taking Orkambi and Kalydeco has been absolutely excellent," Mr Watt said. "It is now a time of real hope for our patients because of the medicines now available; a better lung transplant programme and better CF centres in hospitals. "It is an exciting time as survival ages and quality of life of people with cystic fibrosis are improving all the time." This is the traumatised mother who said a notorious rapist duped her into a relationship before threatening to throw acid in her face. Bangor woman Sonya Johnston (36) fled to England in June to escape hammer horror rapist Michael 'Micky' Gilbert (29) who she says kept his horrific past secret from her. Hairdresser Sonya claims monster Gilbert threatened to permanently disfigure her by throwing acid in her face and also threatened to kill her. She says he also stabbed her and beat her up during their near two-year relationship. She told Sunday Life: "I absolutely want to warn other women, I wouldn't want another woman going through what I did. "He's a monster and he is gonna continue hurting people. "If I can help another person by speaking out about Micky Gilbert then I will do that. If any woman out there is thinking about getting into a relationship with him, I'd say run in the other direction." Sex beast Gilbert was convicted in 2005, at the age of 15, of carrying out a prolonged and horrific sex attack on a woman who had been sleeping in her north Belfast home. Expand Close Sonya Johnston who was in relationship with convicted rapist Michael Gilbert. (Photo: Sunday Life) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Sonya Johnston who was in relationship with convicted rapist Michael Gilbert. (Photo: Sunday Life) Gilbert had been sniffing glue before he and an accomplice broke into her home, stabbed the terrified woman in the neck with a screwdriver, repeatedly smashed her over the head with a hammer, forced her to perform sex acts and raped her before leaving her for dead. Despite his gruesome past Gilbert managed to strike up a relationship with unsuspecting Sonya in December 2016 after the pair met on a night out and later bonded over his pet Staffordshire bull terrier. She said: "When I first met him he seemed genuine, he had his dog with him and that's how we struck up a friendship. "He told me he had just split up with his partner and was having a hard time. "I didn't have any idea about Micky's past, he soon started getting aggressive, telling me that I couldn't go out with my friends, always accusing me of cheating on him and from there it went downhill. He threatened to throw acid in my face and threatened to kill me on numerous occasions. "Then it started to unfold about his horrible past. It was one of our mutual friends that told me about it and that I should Google him. "I didn't want to believe it at first but then I went on the internet and I found out about his horrendous past. "Initially he did deny it, I was really hurt because I thought how can somebody do that, and I was in a relationship with him. I was hurt, let down and disgusted. I was horrified, I felt as if I was going to faint, I couldn't believe it. The more that I read about it I felt sick to my stomach, especially as I had started to grow feelings for him. "He said it was his co-accused and that he never hurt that woman but after what he put me through, I believe he did hurt that woman and he is going to hurt other women." In the summer of 2017, Sonya says their initially pleasant relationship began to deteriorate, describing an incident in which the sex beast locked her in a house and threatened her with a knife. She said: "In his friend's house he held me hostage for several hours at knife point and took my shoes off me and threw them out the bedroom window so I couldn't get out of the room and was just pacing up and down. "The relationship went downhill but I couldn't get away from him because I was vulnerable at the time. He was very controlling and he preyed on my vulnerability but I can see that now I'm in a better place but I didn't realise it then, I felt as though I had nobody. "He would always beg me for a second chance and it took me nearly two years to make that break from him." The final straw for Sonya came in May when the couple went camping in Tollymore Forest, Co Down with friends. Sonya says Gilbert became violent and aggressive before stabbing her in the leg - a wound which required 15 stitches. Sonya stumbled out of the forest to safety in the dead of night after Gilbert's fit of rage subsided and she decided to flee to England, fearing he would kill her. She said: "I thought I was going to die in that forest. On the way up he was pulling my hair and getting in my face and accusing me of cheating, he was always insecure saying I'd cheated on him. "After we got the tents up, when it got dark, Micky took my phone off me and put me through a horrendous attack. "He kicked me about my head, my eyes were black and he stabbed me on my left leg. "He was volatile, he was vicious and he was wicked. It was just terrible. I was considering ending my life. He made me feel horrible, he made me feel worthless but I am in a better place now." She's currently living in England but hopes one day to be able to return to Northern Ireland. The frightening incident happened at the Coombe maternity hospital in the early hours of last Thursday morning An intruder who held a young midwife at knifepoint in a Dublin maternity hospital is believed to have scaled a drainpipe and gained entry through an upstairs window. The frightening incident happened at the Coombe maternity hospital in the early hours of last Thursday morning. It is believed the intruder managed to scale a drainpipe and climbed up the side of the old building. He slipped through an open window and ended up in an office area used by midwives and other staff. No patients were in the vicinity and the area which was broken into is some distance from the main maternity area. He ended up in a room which is normally only accessible with a keycode . The attacker - who was wearing a blue and red Adidas hoody - broke into the maternity hospital in the south inner city area at around 2am. He grabbed the midwife's bag and when she attempted to wrench it back from him he took out a knife. He held it to her throat and then fled with her bag. The shaken midwife managed to quickly raise the alarm as the robber made his getaway. The hospital has strict security at the entrance to the hospital and this was not breached. However, an open window on an upper floor was spotted by the intruder who clambered upwards and took the midwife by surprise. A review of security is now under way, and staff have been instructed to ensure that all window are closed. A spokesman for the hospital said yesterday that "an investigation is ongoing into an incident that occurred in a building adjacent to the hospital on Thursday morning, September 27". "As the building does not contain inpatient facilities, mothers and babies were not at risk," he said. Security is an ongoing issue for all city hospitals, which have to balance the need for patient and visitor access with protection. The hospitals must make a heavy financial investment in security at a time when budgets are under pressure. All of the Dublin maternity hospitals are housed in centuries-old buildings which have extensions added on. The plan is to eventually move the Coombe Hospital to the site of St James's Hospital. It would then be located near the new national children's hospital, which is to be built in the campus of St James's. The scene of the crash on the N20 Cork - Mallow road near to the slip road to Waterloo where James Baker and Peggy Sue Adams lost their lives Picture: John Delea. AN IRISH council which closed a controversial road junction where two US tourists were killed and four others were injured in separate accidents over the past year now faces legal action from local residents. Cork Co Council confirmed that the Waterloo Junction on the N20 Cork-Limerick road will now remain closed until November - but Cork councillors indicated the closure is likely until at least February. Now, a solicitor acting for local residents has written to the council warning it has acted unreasonable and will face judicial review proceedings unless the road is re-opened once appropriate works are completed. The junction was first closed last June to facilitate road resurfacing works but the council had indicated earlier this year it was considering a permanent closure of the road junction over road safety concerns. Expand Close American tourists Jim and Deb Baker Photo:GoFundMe / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp American tourists Jim and Deb Baker Photo:GoFundMe Residents of Waterloo and Blarney have vehemently opposed the permanent closure, warning it would add substantially to local journey times. Locals argued that there were ways of re-ordering the junction to fully address the safety issues involved. Residents stressed that they fully support safety improvements to the junction but insisted it can be properly re-ordered so that it remains open. If the junction is permanently closed, they warned that some local children will face a 60km daily commute as a direct result. In legal documentation seen by the Independent.ie, residents warned the council they now face injunction proceedings. "It appears to us that the council has acted irrationally and unreasonably in closing this pubic road," the letter warned. "As a result, we have sent the papers to counsel to advise on judicial review proceedings and in particular seeking an interlocutor mandatory injunction compelling the county council to re-open the public road pending the determination of any such proceedings." The council has been warned that unless the road is re-opened pending a detailed discussion of how to address safety concerns, they will face immediate High Court action. A spokesperson for Waterloo Access Group (WAG) said it was clear the council never considered the impact on Waterloo or Whitechurch residents of a permanent road closure. Residents have been backed by the daughter of one US tourist who died in a collision at the junction. Diane Baker said she believed the permanent closure of the junction appeared to be very unfair to local residents. Ms Baker said she believed the junction could be re-structured to address the obvious safety issues while still remaining open. "Only one turn seems to be inflating the risk and thats the right-hand turn from the N20 to Waterloo road that many tourists are directed to take via their sat-nav systems when travelling to Blarney, she said. Ms Baker said that if this issue was addressed, the main safety concern could be removed and the junction could remain in use for locals. The US woman lost her father, Jim (62), in an horrific collision at the junction in September 2017. Another US tourist, Peggy Adams (59), also died in the collision. Both were from Indiana and were en route to Blarney Castle when the tragedy occurred. They had apparently turned at the junction, in accordance with sat-nav directions, and their vehicle was then in collision with a truck driving towards Limerick. A safer junction to access Blarney is just a few kilometres further up the road. Two US tourists miraculously escaped critical injuries last April in a second mirror-image collision at the same spot. Images sent by Independent.ie reader show cars lining up for doughnuts after dark. Popular doughnut joint Krispy Kreme will be closing their 24-hour 'Drive Thru' traffic after neighbours expressed their frustration over late-night noise and "honking cars". The new outlet, a branch of the US doughnut chain, opened last Wednesday and was operating on a 24/7 basis with a 'Drive-Thru' facility. Residents in the area spoke to Independent.ie yesterday about the late-night noise pollution and shared extraordinary footage of dozens of cars beeping their horns in the shopping centre carpark in the middle of the night. "Weve listened to our neighbours and were making changes," Krispy Kreme CEO Richard Cheshire said in a statement issued today. They said they will be closing the late-night 'Drive Thru' facility from tonight and are now involved in discussions with the council for a long-term solution to the issue. The store will remain open and the in-store queue time has been estimated at 10-12 minutes. "We anticipated a warm welcome for Krispy Kreme in Ireland and have long wanted to open a store here, but the response has been way ahead of our most optimistic expectations. "For the customers coming into our store in Blanchardstown, the smiles and joy have been great to see. For the most part too, our drive thru has been a success. "But we know that the late-night noise has been an upset for our neighbours," they continued. "Some customers have been beeping their horns and disturbing families in nearby apartment complexes. "Most importantly, we are saying to our neighbours, weve listened and were making changes immediately." The 'Drive Thru' will now be open between the hours of 6am and 11.30pm. The doughnut crew also said they are involved in ongoing discussions with Fingal County Council, Blanchardstown Centre Management, local Garda Traffic Corp and Community Liaison with regard to the late-night facility. They said they are committed to finding a long-term solution that works for everyone. Footage shared with Independent.ie showed cars beeping their horns as they joined the line for doughnuts after 11pm, with residents claiming it was keeping them up throughout the night. Since the grand opening we havent had proper sleep at night. We have jobs, kids, schools, and so many elderly people living here as well, one Grove Park resident told Independent.ie. Every night the queue for doughnuts is unbelievable - lights, noises, pollution and horns. All streets blocked and all cars honking at once. All night, every night. Another resident, Salim Sanehi added: The noise has been happening every single night since the grand opening. My apartment has another balcony that faces the entire car park, so our entire apartment gets hit with the noise. Some locals joined together to create a Facebook group called to tackle the noise and called for the opening hours to be changed. "Ive nothing against the company but it shouldnt be open 24/7 if they cant manage the traffic and noise," group member Ben Raymond from Blanchardstown told Independent.ie. "They should take the 24 hours away and put a traffic management system in place. I live down the road and its been waking children up in the area." Local councillor Ted Leddy said he was aware of complaints from residents, and said he wasnt expecting the doughnut phenomenon" to take over Blanchardstown. "I have heard reports, I was at the opening and I have to say I wasnt prepared for the phenomenon it is," Mr Leddy told Independent.ie yesterday. "I dont think the management in charge of traffic control were prepared either." The order of service at the funeral of Road Racing champion William Dunlop at Garryduff Photo: Niall Carson/PA Wire William Dunlop, who died in a crash during the Skerries 100 Photo: PACEMAKER PRESS William Dunlop in a practice session at the Skerries 100 shortly before he died. He is the third member of the biking dynasty to die in crashes while racing. Photo: Barry Cregg/Sportsfile William Dunlop and his partner Janine arrive at the Adelaide Motorcycle Awards in Belfast in 2014. PICTURE BY STEPHEN DAVISON PACEMAKER, BELFAST, 17/1/2014. The Dunlop family have released the first picture of the newborn daughter of the late motorcycle racer William Dunlop. The picture of Willa Wren Dunlop was posted on the William Dunlop racing website under the title 'Our little WD'. She was pictured alongside her two-year-old sister Ella on top of her late father's racing gloves. William was killed in July in a collision in practice at the Skerries 100 road races in Co Dublin. Willa was born on September 15 weighing in at 8lb and 15oz. Speaking after her birth mum Janine Brolly said that William would have been "besotted" with his new daughter. "She has the most amazing big sister and there is no question that Daddy would have been besotted," she said. "Grateful for two precious girls who are keeping my heart beating." Expand Close William Dunlop and his partner Janine arrive at the Adelaide Motorcycle Awards in Belfast in 2014. PICTURE BY STEPHEN DAVISON PACEMAKER, BELFAST, 17/1/2014. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp William Dunlop and his partner Janine arrive at the Adelaide Motorcycle Awards in Belfast in 2014. PICTURE BY STEPHEN DAVISON PACEMAKER, BELFAST, 17/1/2014. William, part of the legendary Dunlop racing family, was the son of Robert Dunlop and nephew of Joey. He died while making his return to the sport after pulling out of this year's Isle of Man TT to be with Janine during her pregnancy. Senior European and European Central Bank (ECB) officials agreed to threaten Ireland with national bankruptcy if the government made any attempt to burn bondholders, the Sunday Independent can reveal. The threat was made at a high-level teleconference meeting, details of which have been revealed for the first time by the Central Bank governor, Dr Patrick Honohan. Mr Honohan, who famously told the nation Ireland would be entering the Troika bailout programme live on radio as government ministers were publicly denying it, also revealed he was kept out of loop about the meeting. In a new book about the late Brian Lenihan, Mr Honohan said he only found out about the meeting after the Troika delivered the ultimatum to Mr Lenihan on November 26, 2010. "The Troika staff told Brian in categorical terms that burning the bondholders would mean no programme and, accordingly, could not be countenanced," Dr Honohan writes. "For whatever reason, they waited until after this showdown to inform me of this decision, which had apparently been taken at a very high-level teleconference to which no Irish representative was invited." Dr Honohan's revelations will add more fuel to claims that Ireland was "bullied" into the bailout. They are also likely to lead to growing demands here for former ECB president Jean-Claude Trichet, who played a central role in the Irish bailout and the handling of the Eurozone crisis, to appear before the banking inquiry over the coming months. The ECB last week came under renewed criticism for failing to publish a letter sent by Mr Trichet to Mr Lenihan during the same period of November 2010, despite a request from the European Ombudsman, Emily O'Reilly. ECB president, Mario Draghi, last week told Irish MEP Brian Hayes the bank would discuss the question of Mr Trichet's possible appearance before the banking inquiry, and that he could have a response by November. Mr Hayes subsequently said that if Mr Trichet cannot attend the banking inquiry, the ECB should "provide documentation and, where relevant, officials" to assist the inquiry. Meanwhile, former European commissioner Olli Rehn yesterday said he would "consider seriously" appearing before the forthcoming banking inquiry if he is asked to do so. Mr Rehn, who stepped down as Commissioner for economic and monetary affairs in July, said decisions made by the ECB and the European Commission were taken when euro zone economies were "in a freefall". Speaking on the Marian Finucane Show, Mr Rehn said that while he was not very familiar with the proposed banking inquiry, "it is both reasonable and useful that in Ireland a profound analysis of the crisis will be done". The book, Brian Lenihan: In Calm and Crisis, extracts of which appear in today's Sunday Independent, was commissioned by friends and family and contains essays on his handling of the crisis by colleagues, including Dr Honohan and IMF chief Christine Lagarde, who was then finance minister of France. In one extract, Dr Honohan reveals that the Troika appeared to be considering "burning" some senior bondholders in the negotiations which followed Ireland's application for a bailout. Dr Honohan was involved in the ECB decision to press Ireland to ask for a bailout and supported it, because of the enormous growth in emergency loans from the Central Bank to the banking system from the middle of September. He says government reluctance to apply for a programme explains his dramatic interview on RTE's Morning Ireland on November 18, 2012, saying that Ireland would go into a bailout, but he did not realise other cabinet ministers had not been kept informed of what was happening. "Things had got to the point where, had it remained silent on the state of play, the Central Bank would have not only failed in its responsibility to use timely communication to steady confidence, but would also have dashed a legitimate public expectation in Ireland that the Bank could be trusted not to deceive through omission," Dr Honohan writes. "What had not occurred to me was that Brian might not, even by that stage, have communicated to some of his senior ministerial colleagues how far down the road the discussions had already gone. "Clearly, the interview was inconvenient for him, but he understood, as he confirmed to me then and later, that my sole aim was to work in the national interest." Meet and greet: Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina meet Rosie Valentine and her daughter Lilly, from Templeogue, on Grafton Street. Photo: Steve Humphreys He had scarcely taken 10 steps when it became glaringly apparent that this whole thing was ridiculous. Everyone was smiling. Bunches of flowers were being presented. Babies were being thrust forward to be kissed. People wearing the fervent expression of fanatics pressed eagerly forward to thank him for being "such a great President". Others were craning their necks from the windows of the upper floors in the same way they did when Meghan Markle was in town. Bubbling over with excitement, a girl rang her mother to loudly inform her that she was "on Grafton Street with Michael D". It was like the set of a sugar-sweet rom-com - we were only waiting for someone to burst into song. Bono and Glen Hansard, would be the obvious choices, given that it was Grafton Street. In the meanwhile, it was the regular buskers who were in danger of being squashed by this dangerously mobile love bomb let loose on the city centre of the capital. The three hankie plot of this weepy feel-good movie culminated when a flower seller presented Sabina Higgins with a small bunch of white roses. She turned out to be Vicky Dempsey. She is the former partner of 'Fat Freddie' Thompson, the notorious gangland figure who is currently doing time for murder. She has now left that life behind and is selling flowers for a living. "I used to always buy my flowers here," Sabina murmured to her and Vicky gave her a big hug. Unless something particularly drastic happens in this election campaign, the President has it in the bag. Again. On Grafton Street, he was as welcome as the flowers of May. The only question is why we are wasting upwards of 15m to prove it? Shortly after 3.30pm, they strolled happily up past the Gaiety Theatre, Michael D in his nice blue suit and Sabina seasonally vibrant in orange. From then on, it was a frenzy. Stephen and David Flynn - otherwise known as 'The Happy Pear' appeared. At one point, John Tutty from Rathfarnman presented Sabina with a sunflower. He was a great fan of this presidency, "particularly the first lady because she is lovely," he explained. Rosie Valentine and her six-week-old daughter Lilly posed for a picture. "He'll be getting the vote," laughed Rosie. Close to the Phil Lynott statue, Michael D pulled in for a press conference. It has emerged RTE is to adopt an 'empty-chair' approach after he declined to take part in a televised debate on 'Claire Byrne Live'. He denied avoiding the event, but said: "It's a matter of making a choice between the different offers that are there." Mr Higgins confirmed he would debate his five rivals in a debate moderated by Pat Kenny on Virgin Media One on Wednesday, October 17, as well as a 'Prime Time' RTE showdown on Tuesday, October 23. He again faced a series of questions about an annual 317,000 allowance. He has committed to publishing details on how the money is spent - but not until after the election on October 26. The President angrily attacked reports in a weekend newspaper that some of the money might have been used to top up the salary of a staff member, describing it as an "outrageous, slanderous comment to make" and said it was "not true". The family of a US tourist who was killed in a car accident in Co Cork earlier this month has thanked the Irish people for their "prayers, helpfulness and donations". Tourists James Baker (62) from Columbia City, Indiana and Peggy Sue Adams (59) from Delphos, Ohio were both fatally injured when they were involved in a collision with a truck at the Waterloo Junction on the main N20 near Blarney, Cork. Their hired Skoda Octavia being driven by Ms Adams' husband, Jack (67). While the crash claimed the lives of James and Peggy Sue, their partners Debbie and Jack were left with a broken collarbone, a shattered radius and ulna, a dislocated elbow pushed up the humorous, multiple broken ribs on the right side and a punctured lung. The daughter of James and Debbie Baker has thanked the Irish people for their support in the aftermath of the tragic holiday. Writing on GoFundMe, Brenda Baker wrote that she is "proud" of her Irish heritage. "Everyone in Ireland has taken amazing care of both Mom and Dad. In addition to all the family and friends from the USA who have donated to this campaign, we are all so touched by the support of the Irish people through prayers, helpfulness and donations. I am proud of my Irish heritage as are the Bakers." The GoFundMe page has raised over $35,000 to help cover medical costs and to get James' body home. Expand Close Brenda and Debbie Baker / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Brenda and Debbie Baker Brenda Baker said that her mum Debbie is "continuing to heal" as they laid their dad and husband James to rest. "Mom is continuing to heal physically. She is detached from the IVs and sensors now and has only the chest tube. Yesterday she was allowed to walk mostly unassisted and this morning when I arrived she was able to use the restroom without having to ring for assistance. "As the days pass, the shock is going away and the reality that Dad is gone is becoming more acute. Flashbacks have become sort of the norm now and Mom tries to decipher what she is seeing and deal with the flooding emotions," Brenda wrote on GoFundMe. She added that her parents were together 46 years and that they were childhood sweethearts. "Mom will get to see Pop for the first time since the accident--probably the longest span of of time they've ever been apart. These two were high school sweethearts. Pop loved to joke that Mom "robbed the cradle" because he was only 16 and she a year and a half older. 46 years together is a long time, yet, not long enough. So thankful that Pop was a believer in quality over quantity. He left us with long lasting memories that will make us smile and warm our hearts for a very, very long time. Love you Pop." Gardai are investigating if a satellite navigation device directed them to cross the outbound lane of traffic from Cork as the shortest way to get to the tourist village of Blarney, the Corkman reports. Read More Garda inquiries have revealed a previous collision at the same location where motorists escaped serious injury after they were impacted when using a sat nav on the same route. The possibility the Americans were using a sat nav for directions is just one line of inquiry into their investigation into the cause of the collision. Both Mr Baker, who was a front seat passenger, and Ms Adams, who was sitting behind him in the rear seat, were fatally injured when the left side of the car took the brunt of the impact and Mr Adams and Mr Baker's wife, Deborah (60) received serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The car was travelling from Mallow towards Cork and was turning right across traffic coming from Cork to descend the Kiln Hill towards Waterloo when it was in collision with the truck which was coming from Cork towards Mallow. The drive to cut down on disposable plastic and food waste is gaining traction, as 2018 shapes up to be the year that plastic became a dirty word. Yesterday's BBC documentary Drowning In Plastic shed new light on the scale of the damage plastic waste on the oceans and the impact on wildlife. Liz Bonnin's emotional response to the sight of a chick's stomach being pumped, in particular, struck a chord with audiences at home - and the presenter has now called for single-use plastics to be banned immediately in Britain. The backlash against plastic has hit the mainstream. Iceland supermarket has announced that it aims to go entirely plastic-free by 2023. Beyond our supermarkets, Brussels has launched its first EU-wide strategy to fight plastic waste. David Attenborough's documentary series The Blue Planet has also played a crucial role in drawing mass attention to the issue. But while going plastic-free and achieving an entirely zero-waste lifestyle is a tall order, there are plenty of surprisingly small changes and swaps you can make to cut back - and a new breed of zero-waste shopkeepers who eschew any kind of reusable packaging are also coming to the fore, putting pressure on bigger brands to rethink their approach. So, how can you take the first steps to cultivating eco-friendly habits in your own kitchen at home - changes that wont necessarily break the bank? Loose vegetables Buying loose fruit and vegetables is one of the simplest ways to cut back on plastic. Purchasing loose fruit not only cuts down on plastics but also reduces food waste, by encouraging you to buy the amount you actually need for the week, explains a Whole Foods Market spokesperson. Often, it pays to plan a trip to a larger supermarket, market or greengrocer for more choice when it comes to loose fruit and vegetables. Just remember to bring your own re-useable bags. According to an investigation by Money Saving Expert published last year, it can also be a wallet-friendly option: the reporter found that everyday fruit and veg including mushrooms, apples, courgettes, broccoli and bananas were significantly cheaper to buy loose rather than pre-packed when purchased at the same store. However, in a more recent investigation this year, Money Saving Expert criticised supermarkets for penalising environmentally-conscious consumers after they found that some products in plastic packaging were sold for less than their fresh equivalents. If youre swapping to loose produce, it pays to shop around for the best prices. Food storage The way you store your food also has an impact. Try the Fresher for Longer disc from EcoEgg, which lasts for three months, and keeps food fresh by absorbing ethylene gas, which slows down the decay process. Grease proof paper or Bees Wrap is an alternative to disposable plastic clingfilm. Bee's Wrap is reusable, biodegradable and compostable, and is made from organic cotton, sustainably harvested bees wax, organic jojoba oil and tree resin. You could also try out the new generation of stretchy re-usable silicone lids and covers available, which can adapt to cover everything from ramekins and trays to pineapples. Coffee A more "conscious" cup of coffee in the morning is another way to make a difference. The mixed material coffee capsules and pods found in single-serve coffee machines, for example, are notoriously bad for the environment - but you can still source biodegradable options. However, as with vegetables, loose coffee is the best way to go. Its also becoming more widespread, especially among those who prefer a French press or cafetiere coffee, or like to experiment with grinding their own coffee beans or brewing their own cold-brew coffee at home. We have seen sales in loose coffee and tea increase year on year. Customers tell us they like being able to buy less but buy fresh - all the while reducing waste food and packaging. It also encourages them to experiment more, explains a spokesperson from Whole Foods Market. Theres a real buzz around reusable options such as the fashionable keep cups, some of which are made with natural bamboo fibre, and are dishwasher safe and have no nasty plastic aftertaste. Cleaning products Re-thinking everyday cleaning products such as machine washable dishcloths and scrubbers is another good place to start. If you seem to get through a disproportionate amount of non-recyclable, grubby washing-up sponges and scrubbers, it might be time to clean up your act. A silicon dish scrubber makes for a good swap, and since its washable and reusable, its also cost-effective. Furthermore, it isnt such a breeding ground for bacteria as traditional sponge or wire scrubbers - so its a means of improving kitchen hygiene, too (according to a recent study by Scientific Report, analysis of kitchen sponges found them to be microbiological hotspots with the capability to collect and spread bacteria with a probable pathogenic potential.) The KoTop dish scrubber is dishwasher safe and heat resistant, and Swiss brand Kuhn Rikon have a rather snazzy Stay Clean Scrubber with over 5,000 bristles. If silicone doesnt appeal, you could try a Safix coconut fibre wash pad. As well as being biodegradable, theyre kind to hands and nails, and promise not to scratch non-stick pans. You might also consider investing in a greener dustpan and brush, such as the wood pulp and recycled plastic brushes and brooms from Greener Cleaner. We also recommend the reusable bamboo towels from EcoEgg. They also have a plant-based Power Degreaser, which is effective without enlisting the help of harsh chemicals. Edible packaging While this may all feel a bit Willy Wonka, edible disposables - such as wheat bran bowls and plates and seaweed food wraps - are tipped to enter the mainstream. This month, Diageo, the world's largest producer of spirits, announced that they are to launch a range of edible straws in collaboration with online drinks retailer 31Dover.com, to be paired with popular pre-mixed drinks such as Baileys Iced Coffee (chocolate straw), Captain Morgan and cola, and Pimms and lemonade (strawberry straw). Buy in bulk Buying in bulk saves on unnecessary packaging, and also works out cheaper - it just takes a little more planning, and requires space for storage. The industrial-sized bags of rice in Asian supermarkets spring to mind, and you can buy everything online from cereal to almonds, lentils to apricots from Suma Wholesale and Planet Organic - but youll find bulk buys in most supermarkets across the country. Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021] People queue outside Krispy Kremes at 6:30.am at the official opening of Krispy Kremes first ever Irish store in Blanchardstown Centre last year. Photo: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland. Krispy Kreme, an international doughnut chain known for its glazing, opened its first Irish store near Blanchardstown shopping centre last Wednesday at 7am. The shop is a hotlight theatre store and includes a drive-through. What is the Krispy Kreme Hotlight? The hot light is a neon red sign which staff turn on when they want to let customers know theres a fresh batch just out of the oven. Customers can drive up to the store and wait until the hot light is turned on, and then buy their hot doughnut. Why do queues form when a Krispy Kreme store opens for the first time? Krispy Kreme famously gives out free doughnuts for its grand openings. The first 100 customers in the Blanchardstown queue on opening day received a free hot glazed doughnut Michal Blaszczyk from Ongar told how he had been queuing since 4am last Wednesday to bag his free - and first ever - Krispy Kreme doughnut when the store opened at 7am. How are the doughnuts made? Krispy Kreme says it takes around an hour and a half to make one batch of doughnuts - from brew, to being picked off the line, and then another 30 minutes to be glazed and processed. A typical hotlight store like Blanchardstown makes more than 3,000 doughnuts per hour. The doughnuts are vegetarian-friendly, but not vegan-friendly. None is gluten free. The doughnuts are cooked in 100 percent vegetable oil. How many doughnut types are they? The Dublin store has 16 doughnut varieties, and the store also includes an area where you can customise your own doughnut. How many calories are in a Krispy Kreme doughnut? An original glazed doughnut has 217 calories and 13g of fat. Related video: The young man described the diagnosis as like "a death sentence" but said he now has the choice to live a fulfilled life. Stock photo 23-year-old man has been warned he will almost certainly develop dementia after inheriting a rare genetic mutation. Jordan Adams is thought to be the youngest person in Britain to find out that he will suffer early onset frontotemporal dementia and Parkinson's Disease because of a faulty MAPT gene. Although he currently shows no signs of illness, doctors have warned him he could lose the ability to walk, talk and feed himself at any time and could die in his 50s like his mother Geri who lost her life aged 52. He has just one in 100 million chance that the mutation will not lead to dementia. Mr Adams, and entrepreneur from Redditch, Worcestershire, said: When I was told the diagnosis I was devastated. Nobody can prepare you for that. Its like a death sentence. Were all dealt cards in life and I was just incredibly unlucky. Mr Adams was given the news he had the mutated gene after he was tested with sister Kennedy, 25, following the death of their mother. His sister was given the all clear in May this year. Miss Adams said: This disease is hereditary, aggressive, and rare. I've been told you have more chance of winning the EuroMillions than getting it. He has got time but we just don't know how much - he has no symptoms yet, but it could start tomorrow. He won't get it when he's old and grey, but when he's young and fit. Mr Adams is now planning to have his sperm screened for the gene so he and girlfriend Lucy Thomas, 21, can start a family before his symptoms develop. I feel like the diagnosis is actually a licence to live, he said. It'll make me step back and appreciate the bigger picture. It's going to allow me to make choices to live a fulfilled life. Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021] Motorists are being urged to have a free tyre-pressure check and thread-depth inspection during RSA Road Safety Week. The invitation is being extended by Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) members until Sunday. As you know, driving on dangerous or under-inflated tyres puts lives at risk, as well as incurring penalty points and a fine of up to 2,500. Tyre faults top the reasons for NCT failures (thread depth below legal 1.6mm limit, cuts/bulges and mismatched tyres on the same axle). ITIA president Paddy Murphy says: "We are asking all motorists to avail of the ITIA members' offer this coming week and check that their tyres are in order before winter comes in". Commenting on this year's Tyre Safety Day (today), Tom Dennigan, of Continental Tyres, says: "For a long time, tyre safety was neglected by both the authorities and motorists. "However, our legislators have to be commended for bringing tyre safety to the fore. "My hope for Tyre Safety Day 2018 is that motorists will make a commitment to regularly check their tyres." Pedestrians account for many of the deaths on our roads This is Irish Road Safety Week. It's an opportunity to reflect on safety on our roads, and for the public, local communities and organisations to take part in events around the country. This year, Irish Road Safety Week kicked off on Monday with our annual academic lecture, which was held in the Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin. The event was chaired by RTE broadcaster Bryan Dobson, and focused on the theme of pedestrian safety. One of the speakers was Dr Aoife Kervick, who works as a policy and research analyst with us here at the RSA. One of her key roles involves analysing road traffic collision fatality data. Aoife's presentation provided an in-depth examination of pedestrian fatalities that occurred over a seven-year period (2008 to 2015) on our roads. Like the general trend in road deaths, the number of pedestrians being killed has declined. In 1990, a total of 150 people were killed while out walking. When you consider that 157 people were killed in total last year it really does highlight the unbelievable levels of carnage we tolerated decades ago. Things have improved. In 2006, the year the RSA was established, 73 pedestrians lost their lives. Last year the figure was 30, accounting for almost 20pc of all fatalities. But more progress has to be made. Every life lost on our roads is a family and community left bereaved. That's why the work Dr Kervik and her colleagues do is so important. If we delve into the findings of her analysis of collision data, we can see some obvious causes of pedestrian fatalities, and critically develop measures to address them. What stands out from her findings is that older pedestrians are a particularly vulnerable group in this country and, surprisingly, older women feature prominently in casualty data. In general, pedestrian deaths are more likely to occur during the winter months, from October to January. The majority of deaths take place in darkness, with low levels of high-visibility clothing being recorded at the time of the fatal crash. The majority of pedestrian fatalities take place on urban roads, but more pedestrian fatalities where the deceased had consumed alcohol take place in rural areas. The role of alcohol in pedestrian deaths clearly stands out as one of the principal findings of Dr Kervick's analysis. There was a record of whether or not alcohol was consumed in the case of 215 pedestrian deaths. Of the 215, 105 were confirmed to have consumed alcohol prior to the collision. That's 49pc. In all, 58pc of these cases had a confirmed blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level in excess of 200mg. To put this in context, at alcohol levels of between 200 and 250mgs, you are talking about heavy drunkenness and grossly impaired co-ordination. Between 250 and 300mgs, we are talking about extreme drunkenness, stupor and impaired consciousness. In situations above 300mgs, we are looking at unconsciousness, coma and possible death. Some 28 cases were in the 250mg and above category. It is not uncommon to hear that victims with such levels of alcohol were lying or standing in the middle of the road at the time of the fatal collision. Dr Kervick's presentation also examined the actions of road users involved in fatal crashes that led to a pedestrian's death, to see what action might have led to the incident. She found that in 70pc of cases, the action of the pedestrian was a contributory factor to the crash, 26pc was likely down to the action of the driver. The single biggest driver factor and an action by half of drivers was a failure to observe before the fatal pedestrian collision. A quarter of culpable drivers were speeding. These findings will inform the design of an evidence-based pedestrian safety campaign for next year. But, of course, we all have the power to influence and change attitudes and behaviours. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ordered the US to ease sanctions it re-imposed on Iran after abandoning a nuclear deal in May. Judges ruled that the US had to remove "any impediments" to the export of humanitarian goods, including food, medicine and aviation safety equipment. The US argued the ruling was a "defeat" for Iran, saying it already allowed humanitarian-related transactions. The rulings of the ICJ are binding but the court has no power to enforce them. It is the main judicial organ of the UN and settles legal disputes between member states. But both nations have in the past ignored the court's rulings. Iran said the sanctions violated the 1955 Treaty of Amity, Economic Relations, and Consular Rights between Iran and the US, which grants the ICJ jurisdiction over disputes. It also said the reasons cited by President Donald Trump for re-imposing the sanctions were unfounded because the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) had repeatedly confirmed that Iran was complying with the terms of the 2015 nuclear accord signed by Tehran and six world powers. US lawyers argued that the ICJ should not have jurisdiction and that Iran's assertions fell outside the bounds of the treaty. The ICJ has ruled previously that the 1955 treaty is valid even though it was signed before the 1979 Revolution in Iran, which saw the US-backed shah overthrown and heralded four decades of hostility between the two countries. As BBC writes in an article "International Court of Justice orders US to ease Iran sanctions", the 15-judge panel rejected Iran's call for them to order the reinstated US sanctions to be terminated without delay, and for the US to compensate Iran for the revenue losses it has incurred. But the judges did order the US to "remove, by means of its choosing, any impediments arising from the measures on 8 May to the free exportation to the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran" of: medicines and medical devices; foodstuffs and agricultural commodities; spare parts, equipment and services necessary for the safety of civil aviation. A curb on 'economic warfare'? This is essentially the first time international judges have ruled on what's been described as a case of "economic warfare". It is a provisional measure issued in response to Iran's urgent request ahead of the second round of sanctions scheduled to be reinstated next month. The decision could encourage European companies, which ceased trading with Iran for fear of falling foul of President Trump, to reconsider their position, specifically those dealing in the humanitarian items outlined by the judges. How did both sides react? The Iranian foreign ministry said the decision "vindicates the Islamic Republic of Iran and confirms the illegitimacy and oppressiveness" of US sanctions. But US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of abusing the ICJ for political ends and said the court had rejected all of its "baseless requests". "With regard to the aspects of the court's order focusing on potential humanitarian issues, we have been clear," he added. "Existing exceptions, authorisations and licensing policies for humanitarian-related transactions and safety of flight will remain in effect. The United States has been actively engaged on these issues without regard to any proceeding before the ICJ." Mr Pompeo announced that the US was terminating the Treaty of Amity, adding: "This is a decision that is, frankly, 39 years overdue." He also said the US had "solid" evidence that Iran was to blame for recent attacks against the US consulate in the Iraqi city of Basra and the embassy in Baghdad. "These latest destabilising acts in Iraq are attempts by the Iranian regime to push back on our efforts to constrain its malign behaviour. Clearly, they see our comprehensive pressure campaign as serious and succeeding." Why did the US abandon the nuclear deal? The 2015 accord saw the Islamic Republic limit its controversial nuclear activities in return for relief from international sanctions. But Mr Trump said it had "failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb" and did not deal with Tehran's "malign activities, including its ballistic missile programme and its support for terrorism". In an attempt to compel Iran to agree to a new accord, the president reinstated sanctions that targeted the Iranian government's purchase of US dollars, Iran's trade in gold and other precious metals, and its automotive sector. In November, a second batch of potentially more damaging sanctions will be re-imposed on Iran's oil and shipping sectors as well as its central bank. The other parties to the deal - the UK, France, Germany, China and Russia - have pledged to abide by their commitments. But many firms have pulled out of Iran. A man stands on a destroyed car as he views rubble and debris in Palu, Indonesia. Photo: Getty As night fell on the road to Palu drivers of the aid lorries faced a dreadful dilemma: press on and risk being looted by the desp erate victims of the Indonesian earthquake and tsunami or sit tight and wait for daybreak. With no street lights to illuminate the winding coast road and local television showing scenes of rising frustration among the survivors of Friday's 7.5-magnitude earthquake, the police advice was clear: stay put. And with the tropical sun sinking fast, the news that more than 1,000 criminals had escaped from local jails after the earthquake did nothing to settle the nerves. "I'm too scared to go on tonight. I just want to help people. I don't want to be a victim of looters," said one driver, who was in a convoy carrying water and five tons of rice. In the sapping 32C heat, the 18-hour drive to Pasangkayu, a town two hours from Palu, gave little inkling of the disaster zone that lay ahead. From time to time, a sharp bend in the road would reveal glimpses of the azure coastal waters that the quake had rucked up into a 20ft (6m) high tsunami that hit Palu and the nearby town of Donggala. Last night the official death toll had risen to more than 1,300. The disaster, which appears to have overwhelmed the resources of the Indonesian government, left survivors desperate for water and fuel. The nearest petrol stations were in Pasangkayu, where last night cars queued for several miles at each of the available stations. Under cover of darkness locals also filled up jerry cans at black market stalls where prices had increased eightfold. Most of the dead were killed by falling debris or the tsunami, but many were entombed in their home by another deadly phenomenon known as liquefaction, in which loose soil shaken by a quake gives way and collapses. Dozens of schoolchildren are believed to have met this fate at a church in the nearby district of Sigi, where 86 high school students from a Christian school were attending a Bible course. Thirty-four bodies have been recovered. Save the Children has warned that 1.5 million people have been affected by the disaster, including at least 600,000 children, about a third of whom have been seriously affected by losing their homes, livelihoods and loved ones. Palu's remote location and earthquake damage to the airport tower and runway has meant that aid agencies are struggling to provide vital supplies to those who need it most. Commercial flights have been temporarily suspended after thousands of frantic survivors stormed the airport on Monday trying to board military aircraft or get seats on the limited number of small local airlines operating. Roads to the south of the island are open but fuel has run out, leaving residents trapped, sleeping outside their flattened homes and scavenging for food. More than 25 countries have offered assistance, including Britain, the US and China, with the Indonesian Red Cross saying the most pressing need was for basic items, like tarpaulins. Three ships carrying Red Cross relief packages will arrive in Sulawesi on Friday but they must dock in the southern port of Makassar before lorries take the tortuously slow and winding road north for at least 20 hours. Yesterday, desperation for basic foodstuffs, clean water, medicine and shelter exploded into anger as residents begged Joko Widodo, the Indonesian president, to help them as they crawled into stores and grabbed boxes of food. Whooping is also discouraged at Manchester University student union events on the basis that the loud noise may be a problem for those with sensory issues. Stock Image: Getty Clapping has been replaced with "jazz hands" at a student union amid fears that the noise of applause could trigger anxiety among some students. Whooping is also discouraged at Manchester University student union events on the basis that the loud noise may be a problem for those with sensory issues. The use of "jazz hands" - where students wave their hands in the air - is the sign-language expression for applause and deemed a more inclusive gesture. At the union's first meeting of the year, Sara Khan, who is Manchester University's liberation and access officer, argued that traditional applause was not sufficiently "accessible". The union resolved to ban clapping in favour of "jazz hands", and urged "student groups and societies to do the same". The students' union also plans to make "sign-language clapping" part of inclusion training for new students. The union noted that "loud noises, including whooping and traditional applause, could pose an issue for students with disabilities, such as those with anxiety or sensory issues". Jazz hands should be favoured at debates, talks and meetings of the student senate, it said. "Jazz hands" were adopted by Britain's National Union of Students in 2015 because clapping "triggers anxiety". Delegates at 2017's NUS conference said students who whoop should face "consequences". Critics of the move say that such behaviour is typical of an over-sensitive "snowflake generation" of students who are quick to take offence. ( Daily Telegraph, London) Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021] Teacher Eleanor Wilson outside Bristol Crown Court, where she is on trial accused of sexual activity with a pupil. Ben Birchall/PA Wire A teacher accused of having a sexual relationship admitted to police she had flirted with him, a trial heard. Eleanor Wilson, 29, told detectives that she had given the boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, her mobile telephone number and sent him "flirty texts" but allegations she had sex with him made her "sick". Wilson told police the alleged incident on the plane did not happen and that during the flight she had instead been looking after students who were ill before falling asleep. "It makes me sick to think about any of this. I had been flirting with (the boy). It's just sick. "I would not be thinking about doing any of this with (the boy)." She went on: "The whole time I thought it was a friendship that had been flirty. "I didn't touch him. We had blurred the lines about what a teacher and pupil should talk about. "He kept coming to the office and talking about stuff and I told him I was pregnant as I had already told one of my colleagues and had no friends and already knew my boyfriend didn't want it." The court has previously heard that a forensic analysis of the boy's mobile phone revealed that between August 4 2015 and March 18 2016 there were 339 "contacts" between him and Wilson, whose number was saved as Smurfette in his contacts book. This consisted of: - 295 text messages - 23 calls - 13 calls that went straight to answer phone - 8 multi-media messages Wilson told detectives the boy had a "difficult adolescence" and thought he treated her like a big sister. The science teacher added: "I felt like he needed looking after a bit." She recalled how the boy had given her chocolate and flowers when they visited Nando's with other members of the trip after returning to the UK. Afterwards she gave the boy a lift home, using the lavatory and giving him her phone number. When police asked her why she did that, she replied: "Because I'm an idiot." Wilson told police that after she received the blackmail threats from another student she spoke to the boy. "Obviously I didn't want to lose my job over this. He said he wouldn't tell anybody," she said. Target: Russian former spy Sergei Skripal, who was poisoned President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Sergei Skripal, a Russian former double agent poisoned in Britain, was a scumbag who betrayed Russia. Skripal and his daughter Yulia were found slumped on a public bench in the English city of Salisbury in March. Britain says they were poisoned with a nerve agent administered by Russian intelligence officers. A woman later died from what British police say was contact with the poison which her partner found in a discarded perfume bottle. Russia denies any involvement in the affair, which has deepened its international isolation. "I see that some of your colleagues are pushing the theory that Mr Skripal was almost some kind of human rights activist," Putin said at an energy forum in Moscow. "He was simply a spy. A traitor to the motherland. There is such a concept - a traitor to the motherland. He was one of those." "He's simply a scumbag, that's all." The fatal shooting of a 22-year-old former beauty queen, fashion model and social media star has shocked Iraq. Tara Fares, who won fame as much for her outspoken social media comments on personal freedom as her daring outfits in the conservative, Muslim-majority country, was shot dead at the wheel of her Porsche in Baghdad. She was killed last week in broad daylight by a man who leaned into her car and opened fire before escaping on a motorcycle with an accomplice. Expand Close Tara Fares had gathered millions of social media followers (AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Tara Fares had gathered millions of social media followers (AP) The shooting, caught on security camera video, followed the killing of a female activist in the southern city of Basra and the mysterious deaths of two well-known beauty experts. The violence has raised fears of a return to the kind of attacks on prominent figures that plagued the country at the height of its sectarian strife. Iraq is still recovering from its fight against Islamic State militants. The country has been without a government since national elections in May, and riots have repeatedly broken out in the south over the authorities failure to provide basic services. Iraqi human rights activist Hana Adwar said: These harrowing crimes are worrying us. There are groups that want to terrify society through the killing of popular women and activists and to tell other women to abandon their work and stay at home. Expand Close A protest takes place at the scene of the assassination of Iraqi activist Soad al-Ali (AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A protest takes place at the scene of the assassination of Iraqi activist Soad al-Ali (AP) It is not clear whether the deaths of the women are connected, and reports that they knew each other could not be confirmed. Ms Fares, who had an Iraqi father and a Lebanese mother, first became famous in 2015 when she won an unofficial Baghdad beauty pageant organised by a social club. She became a social media darling, attracting 2.2 million followers with bold posts and photos of herself wearing make-up, jeans and blouses that showed off her tattoos. A YouTube channel drew more than 120,000 followers in addition to those on Instagram, where she shared make-up tips. She gave details of a brief marriage at 16 to an abusive husband who posted intimate photos of her on social media and took away their now three-year-old son. Fares said the experience taught her strength and how not to let anyone control me in anything. Ms Fares also spoke out occasionally against religious, tribal and political leaders. While many young Iraqis shared her videos and pictures, others criticised her lifestyle as provocative and un-Islamic. Expand Close An Iraqi activist covers her face in Basra (AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp An Iraqi activist covers her face in Basra (AP) She lived in Iraqs self-ruled Kurdish region with her family, visiting Baghdad from time to time. In a TV interview this year, she said her family had converted to Islam in 2002. Hours after she was gunned down on September 27, a video on social media showed her body being carried away by a group of young people, with her face and white shirt stained with blood. She was buried in the Shia holy city of Najaf. In August, Dr Rafeef al-Yassiri, a plastic surgeon labelled Iraqs Barbie who also posted images of herself on social media, died under mysterious circumstances. Authorities initially called it a drug overdose but have not offered an update in over a month, leading to rumours she might have been poisoned. A week after her death, Rasha al-Hassan, the owner of a well-known beauty centre in Baghdad, was found dead in her home. Authorities initially said she had suffered a heart attack. Expand Close Ms Fares was buried in Najaf (AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Ms Fares was buried in Najaf (AP) On September 25, a gunman killed Soad al-Ali, a prominent activist in the southern city of Basra. Ms al-Ali had organised protests demanding better services and jobs and decried the growing influence of Iran-backed Shia militias in the area. Police said the killing was purely personal and had nothing to do with the protests. Last weekend, another former beauty queen, Shaimaa Qassim, posted a video on Instagram in which she tearfully said she had received threats through social media. Iraqi prime minister Haider al-Abadi has ordered an investigation into what he called well-planned kidnappings and killings. He said organised groups are carrying out a plan to destabilise the security situation under the pretext of fighting perversion. Security agencies have not yet commented on the investigation into Ms Fares death and no group has claimed responsibility. A veteran Kurdish politician has assumed office as Iraqs new president after backing an independent Shiite politician for the post of prime minister, ending nearly five months of political deadlock. Barham Salih, 58, who previously served as Iraqs planning minister and the prime minister of the self-ruled Kurdish region, was elected president by parliament and sworn in on Tuesday. He then backed Adel Abdul-Mahdi, 76, an independent Shiite politician and former vice president, to form the next government. Expand Close Newly elected Iraq president Barham Salih arrives for the inauguration ceremony in Baghdad (Khalid Mohammed/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Newly elected Iraq president Barham Salih arrives for the inauguration ceremony in Baghdad (Khalid Mohammed/AP) Under an unofficial agreement dating back to the 2003 US-led invasion, Iraqs presidency a largely ceremonial role is held by a Kurd, while the prime minister is Shiite and the parliament speaker is Sunni. Both Mr Salih and Mr Abdul-Mahdi are longstanding members of the political class that has dominated Iraqi politics since then. On Wednesday, state TV broadcast a formal handover ceremony at the presidential palace in Baghdads Green Zone, where Mr Salih was saluted by an honour guard and received by former president Fuad Masum. Expand Close Barham Salih inspects a guard of honour (Khalid Mohammed/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Barham Salih inspects a guard of honour (Khalid Mohammed/AP) Mr Abdul-Mahdi emerged as a compromise candidate after two Shiite-led blocs each claimed to have majority support in parliament. He had strong backing from Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, whose followers won the most seats in the May elections and who formed a bloc with the current prime minister, Haider al-Abadi. The other bloc, which is dominated by politicians and militia leaders close to Iran, initially rejected Mr Abdul-Mahdi but then agreed to support him after Sunni and Kurdish parties rallied to his side, according to a Shiite politician who took part in the discussions. The politician said Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, Iraqs top Shiite cleric, had made it clear through mediators that the job of prime minister should not go to someone who had held the post before and had urged consensus. Expand Close Newly elected Iraq president Barham Salih listens to the national anthem during the inauguration ceremony in Baghdad (Khalid Mohammed/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Newly elected Iraq president Barham Salih listens to the national anthem during the inauguration ceremony in Baghdad (Khalid Mohammed/AP) The opinion yesterday was to have Abdul-Mahdi tasked quickly in order not to delay the process any further, the politician said. Mr Abdul-Mahdi, an economist by training who comes from a prominent Shiite tribe based in southern Iraq, spent several years in exile in France, where he worked for think tanks and edited magazines in French and Arabic. He joined Iraqs Community Party in the 1970s, but later switched to the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq, an exiled opposition group established in neighbouring Iran. Mr Abdul-Mahdi remained with SCIRI, which emerged as a powerful religious party after the 2003 US-led invasion, until the party split last year, when he became an independent. After the invasion, he served as vice president, finance minister and oil minister. He has 30 days to submit his cabinet to parliament for approval. Broadcaster ITV made the announcement after mounting speculation it was a front-runner to snap up Endemol Shine (Ian West/PA) Broadcaster ITV has said it has no plans to bid for Big Brother and MasterChef-maker Endemol Shine after mounting speculation it was a front-runner to snap up the production giant. Shares in ITV jumped as much as 4% after it confirmed it has no current intention of making an approach for the Netherlands-based firm, which is also behind hit shows Peaky Blinders and Black Mirror. Endemol Shine was put up for sale by owners 21st Century Fox and private equity firm Apollo earlier this year. Both ITV and German media group FremantleMedia have now ruled themselves out of the race to buy Endemol, but other potential suitors are said to include Lionsgate and All3Media. It is thought the sale could value Endemol at between two billion US dollars (1.5 billion) and four billion US dollars (3.1 billion). ITVs recently-appointed chief executive Carolyn McCall said last month she was focusing on consolidating the firms previous producer acquisitions. The former easyJet boss is leading a strategy overhaul, which involves cost cutting as well as a 60 million investment in the business over the next three years to help ramp up its UK and global production. Endemol Shine was formed in 2014, when Endemol agreed to merge with Shine founded by Rupert Murdochs daughter Elizabeth and Core Media Group. Last year, Endemol Shine produced more than 800 productions in 79 territories airing on more than 287 channels around the world. President Donald Trump received at least $413m from his father over the decades - much of that through dubious tax dodges - including outright fraud, according to the 'New York Times'. The 15,000-word report contradicts Mr Trump's portrayal of himself as a self-made billionaire who started with just a $1m loan from his father. The 'Times' says Mr Trump and his father, Fred, avoided gift and inheritance taxes by setting up a sham corporation and undervaluing assets to tax authorities. It says the report is based on more than 100,000 pages of financial documents, including confidential tax returns from the father and his companies. A lawyer for Mr Trump, Charles J Harder, told the 'Times' there was no "fraud or tax evasion" and the facts cited in the report are "extremely inaccurate." The New York state tax department said it is reviewing the allegations in the Times and "is vigorously pursuing all appropriate avenues of investigation". The department typically refers findings to the state attorney general's office. The 'Times' says the Trump family hid millions of dollars of transfers from the father to his children through a sham company owned by the children called All County Building Supply & Maintenance. Set up in 1992 ostensibly as a purchasing agent to supply Fred Trump's buildings with boilers, cleaning supplies and other goods, the father would pad invoices with markups of 20pc or even 50pc thereby avoiding gift taxes, the newspaper reports. The 'Times' says that before Fred Trump died in the late 1990s, he transferred ownership of most of his real estate empire to his four living children. The value of the properties in tax returns summed up to $41.4m, vastly less than the 'Times' says they were worth. The same properties would be sold off over the next decade for more than 16 times that amount. In total, the president's father and mother transferred over $1bn to their children, according to the 'Times' tally. That should have produced a tax bill of at least $550m, based on a 55pc tax on gifts and inheritance at the time. Instead, the children paid $52.2m, or about 5pc. Tax experts cited in the report say Mr Trump is unlikely to face criminal prosecution in helping his parents evade taxes because the maneuvers are past the statute of limitation. The president's brother Robert Trump said "all appropriate gift and estate tax returns" were filed, adding in a statement: "Our family has no other comment on these matters that happened some 20 years ago and would appreciate your respecting the privacy of our deceased parents, may God rest their souls." The 'Times' report says documents it reviewed show the future president was earning $200,000 a year in today's dollars at the age of three. By the time Mr Trump had graduated from college, the report says, he was getting the equivalent of $1m a year from his father. President Donald Trump arrives to speak at a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump arrives to speak at a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis) President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump gestures as he speaks about some Democrats in Congress at a rally Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis) President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Donald Trump gestures as he speaks at a rally Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis) President Donald Trump mocked university professor Christine Blasey Ford at a rally in Mississippi on Tuesday night. Five days after an extraordinary Senate hearing watched by millions of people in which university professor Christine Blasey Ford detailed her sexual assault allegation against his U.S. Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh,Trump mocked Ford for not having answers to some questions during her testimony. "What neighborhood was it in? I don't know. Where's the house? I don't know. Upstairs, downstairs, where was it? I don't know. But I had one beer. That's the only thing I remember," Trump said in imitation of Ford's testimony. "And a man's life is in tatters," he said. He raised the issue of false accusations against men. He said that allegations of sexual misconduct against Kavanaugh, showed that "it's a very scary time for young men in America" who now may be presumed guilty even when innocent. "My whole life, I've heard you're innocent until proven guilty. But now, you're guilty until proven innocent. That is a very, very difficult standard," Trump said outside the White House. "Well, I say that it's a very scary time for young men in America when you can be guilty of something that you may not be guilty of." The fight over Kavanaugh's nomination to a lifetime job on the top U.S. court comes against the backdrop of the #MeToo movement fighting sexual harassment and assault that has toppled a succession of powerful men. Expand Close President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Under pressure from Democrats and some moderate fellow Republicans, Trump on Friday ordered an FBI investigation lasting up to a week into the allegations against his nominee. He told reporters on Tuesday he thought Kavanaugh would win Senate confirmation once the FBI finishes its investigation. Expand Close President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Landers Center Arena, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Southaven, Miss. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Kavanaugh's confirmation would consolidate conservative control of the Supreme Court, with disputes involving abortion rights, immigration, gay rights, voting rights and transgender troops possibly heading to the court soon. The fight over Kavanaugh's nomination has been unusually emotional and has unfolded just weeks ahead of Nov. 6 elections in which Democrats are trying to seize control of Congress from Republicans. Some Republicans fear pushing ahead with Kavanaugh's confirmation could alienate women voters, while Democrats are seeking to capitalize on the controversy. Trump, who was himself accused during the 2016 presidential race of sexual misconduct with numerous women, tried to link the allegations against Kavanaugh to what he said was a broader problem. "What's happening here has much more to do than even the appointment of a Supreme Court justice. It really does. You could be somebody that was perfect your entire life, and somebody could accuse you of something. It doesn't necessarily have to be a woman," Trump said. Ford testified that Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her at a party in 1982 when they were high school students in Maryland. In angry and defiant testimony before the Senate, Kavanaugh denied Ford's accusation, as well as allegations by two other women of sexual misconduct in the 1980s. Senator Jeff Flake, a moderate Republican who could be pivotal in the confirmation vote, raised concerns about the judge's "partisan" tone at the Judiciary Committee hearing. "I tell myself, 'You give a little leeway because of what he's been through.' But on the other hand, we can't have this on the court. We simply can't," Flake, who is retiring as a senator in January, said at an event in Washington. Flake voted to approve Kavanaugh in the committee's vote on Friday that sent the nomination to the full Senate, but he also insisted the FBI investigate the sexual misconduct allegations. Flake has said Kavanaugh's nomination would end if the FBI investigation found he had lied in his Senate testimony. Republicans control the Senate by a 51-49 margin. That means if all the Democrats vote against Kavanaugh, Trump could not afford to have more than one Republican oppose his nominee, with Vice President Mike Pence casting a tiebreaking vote. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said each senator would get a copy of the FBI's report on its investigation. "But here's what we know ... one thing for sure. The Senate will vote on Judge Kavanaugh here, on this floor, this week," McConnell told the chamber. Senator Dianne Feinstein, the Judiciary Committee's top Democrat, said a Friday vote would not give senators enough time to evaluate the FBI probe. Flake said the FBI had completed interviews with four people. A lawyer for Kavanaugh's friend Mark Judge said the FBI had finished its interview with him. Ford identified Judge as a witness to the alleged assault. Judge has previously denied any memory of such an incident. Ford's lawyers said on Tuesday she had offered her full cooperation with the FBI in its investigation but had received no reply. "It is inconceivable that the FBI could conduct a thorough investigation of Dr. Ford's allegations without interviewing her, Judge Kavanaugh, or the witnesses we have identified in our letters to you," the lawyers said in their letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray. Chuck Grassley, the Republican chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, separately demanded in a letter to Ford's lawyers that they provide a range of materials to determine whether her allegations are credible. They include notes from therapy sessions and video or audio recordings of a polygraph test she took. A person familiar with the matter said the FBI questioned Deborah Ramirez, who has said Kavanaugh exposed himself to her at a party when both were Yale University students. She was questioned for more than two hours on Sunday and provided the FBI with a list of over 20 possible witnesses, the person said. The FBI was also due to question Leland Keyser and P.J. Smyth, two people who Ford said were at the gathering of teenagers where Kavanaugh allegedly assaulted her. In mid-September, the Arab coalition led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates resumed its offensive against Yemen's main port city of Hodeidah, through which basic commodities enter the country, and the UN fear there could be a humanitarian catastrophe. Yesterday, the Yemeni military announced that fierce fighting between Yemen's government forces and the Houthi rebels erupted in Hodeidah, killing at least 27 people. The senior research fellow at the European Research Centre of the International Relations Institute, expert of the Russian International Affairs Council Nikolai Surkov is inclined to believe that the Saudis are interested in the gradual attenuation of this conflict. "They have other problems now, in particular internal ones, and they are not ready to spend money and resources on Yemen, throwing new army units there. Sooner or later, the parties will try to reach an agreement and that's a solution which everybody needs." As for Hodeidah, the expert sees three possible scenarios: "The first scenario, which is quite possible. As for now, all attempts to take Hodeidah have failed, and it may well happen that the UAE military will be near Hodeidah for another half a year, and then we will observe a positional war without any major changes. It would mean a gradual aggravation of the humanitarian crisis, but without any breakthroughs. This is the first option, which is quite possible. The second scenario, which I think is more or less optimistic, is the capture of Hodeidah. Yes, it will lead to a humanitarian collapse, but on the other hand, there is some hope that the capture of Hodeidah may cause the start of real negotiations. Some kind of collapse in the rear of Houthi rebels is also possible. Then there is a chance that they will make serious concessions, and we can expect some kind of contractual solution. But of course, it will happen against the backdrop of a humanitarian catastrophe and will be very difficult for Yemen, because the external players are trying to split it. The third scenario is the capture of Hodeidah and further war, when the Houthi rebels and allies will fight till the last breath. With this development, one can expect a lot of scary things. That is, in addition to the humanitarian collapse and the death of hundreds of thousands of people, if not of millions, one can also expect a real strengthening of Iran's role, because the Houthi rebels will have nowhere to go. One can expect a tanker war, terror in the territory of Saudi Arabia. That is, this is the apocalypse scenario on a regional Arabian scale." Surkov also suggests to consider the fact that there are three conflicts in Yemen, not just one: "First - an internal conflict between various political forces of Yemen. Second - the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the Emirates. The third conflict that imposes its imprint or serves as ideological, is a standoff between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Completion of one of these conflicts does not mean the end of the other two. Therefore, for the time being, we have a crisis, the settlement of which is not possible for at least ten years." Meanwhile, senior researcher at the Arab and Islamic Studies Center at the Institute for Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences Sergei Serebrov believes that the overall situation in the conflict zone is developing according to the scenario of hybrid wars, where many regional and global interests intersect, because Yemen occupies a geopolitically important location on the world map. With regard to the presence of Iranian specialists and advisers in the alliance, its hard to argue, although there is no direct evidence of it. But how then to comment on the presence of American and British soldiers in the headquarters of the coalition who manage aircraft, including those bombing school buses? A school bus was attacked in Sa'dah in August, 40 children died. If the presence of some military specialists allows us to characterize Houthi rebels as Iran's agents, then whose agent is Saudi Arabia?" Sergey Serebrov asks. He considers "dragging" the Yemen conflict into the paradigm of the Saudi-Iranian contradictions is extremely dangerous: There are contradictions in Yemen, but they are not religious, not ideological. The myths about this conflict are constantly being invented. Last month, there was a presentation in the U.S. Congress addressing Yemen, which presented information as fact that on September 21, 2014, the Houthi rebels seized Sana'a and expelled President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi, thereby staging a coup d'etat. This is absolutely not true, it's another prevailing media myth. It is well known what happened on September 21, 2014. Houthi rebels peacefully entered Sana'a and signed an agreement on peace and partnership, it was signed by President Hadi and all the parties participated in the national dialogue, including the moderate Islah party. Its radical wing hastily left Sana'a and moved to Saudi Arabia to prepare for the intervention. Hadi remained in office as president. Relying on the support of the Houthi rebels and former President Saleh, in the period from September to December 2014, Hadi was able to do what Americans failed to do in Yemen. They cleared the entire north of Al-Qaeda in 4 months. For some reason nobody remembers this either. The myths that are put in place of the facts to drag it into the paradigm of the Saudi-Iranian contradictions have reached the level of the Congress and publications in serious sources. This is a dangerous turn in the development of the Yemeni conflict, which fuels the war." Pope Francis urged Catholic bishops to dream of a future free of the mistakes of the past and hit out at clericalism as he opened a global church leadership meeting amid renewed outrage over the priestly sex abuse and cover-up scandal. Yet close to the Vaticans synod hall, about two dozen abuse survivors staged a sit-in, demanding their cause be taken up at the meeting and voicing outrage that some of the delegates had covered up for abusive priests. Make Zero Tolerance Real, read one protest sign. Expand Close Chinese bishops Yang Xiaoting, right, and Guo Jincai attended the opening of the15th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops (Alessandro Di Meo/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Chinese bishops Yang Xiaoting, right, and Guo Jincai attended the opening of the15th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops (Alessandro Di Meo/AP) Francis welcomed more than 250 priests, bishops and cardinals, as well as 34 young Catholics, to a month-long meeting on ministering to future generations, urging young and old to listen to one another without prejudice. He prayed for Gods help to ensure the church does not allow itself, from one generation to the next, to be extinguished or crushed by the prophets of doom and misfortune, by our own shortcomings, mistakes and sins. The October 3-28 synod comes amid new revelations about decades of sexual misconduct by priests and cover-ups in the US, Chile, Germany and elsewhere. Clericalism is a perversion and is the root of many evils in the church,Pope Francis It has been a disastrous year for the pope on the abuse front, after he botched a prominent cover-up scandal in Chile before changing course. More recently, he has been accused of rehabilitating an American ex-cardinal who pressured seminarians to sleep with him. Those cases, coupled with the release of devastating studies about decades of abuses and cover-ups in Pennsylvania and Germany that predated his papacy, have fuelled doubts about his oft-stated pledge of having zero tolerance for that, since implicated bishops remain in place. We ask for the grace to listen to one another, in order to discern together what the Lord is asking of His Church. #Synod2018 Pope Francis (@Pontifex) October 3, 2018 Pope Francis talks about zero tolerance, and that bishops who cover-up should be removed and put on trial, said Alessandro Battaglia, who was 15 when he was abused by a Milan-area priest who last month was convicted and sentenced to over six years in prison. The current archbishop of Milan, Mario Delpini, gave evidence at the trial of Mauro Galli that he had transferred Galli to another parish rather than report him to police or keep him away from other potential victims, as Mr Battaglias family had requested. Despite publicity about the case, Francis named Mr Delpini archbishop of Milan in July and named him a papal delegate at the synod. What is this zero tolerance? Mr Battaglia asked at the protest Wednesday. If he wants to give a sign of zero tolerance and coherence and credibility, remove him (Delpini). Francis did not refer directly to the abuse scandal in his homily at mass or later Wednesday in his opening speech to the synod. Expand Close A view of St Peters Square, at the Vatican, during a Mass celebrated by Pope Francis (Alessandra Tarantino/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A view of St Peters Square, at the Vatican, during a Mass celebrated by Pope Francis (Alessandra Tarantino/AP) He did, however, call for an end to the scourge of clericalism, the culture that puts clergy on a pedestal and unaccountable to their flocks, which Francis has blamed for the scandal. Clericalism is a perversion and is the root of many evils in the church, he told the delegates. We must humbly ask forgiveness for this and above all create the conditions so that it is not repeated. Francis got emotional during his homily when he welcomed two Chinese bishops to the gathering, the first time Chinese bishops have attended a Vatican synod. That was made possible thanks to a landmark agreement with Beijing over bishop nominations that unified the Chinese Catholic leadership for the first time in decades. Russian President Vladimir Putin has called Sergei Skripal, the ex-spy who was poisoned with a military grade nerve agent in Britain, a traitor and a scumbag. It was the first time Mr Putin has directly condemned Mr Skripal, who spent weeks in hospital with his daughter Yulia after both were poisoned in the city of Salisbury in March. Britain put the blame squarely on Russia but Moscow has denied any role in the incident. Asked about sanctions on Russia triggered by the attack, Mr Putin called the ex-spy just a scumbag who betrayed his country. He reiterated Russias claim that it has nothing to do with the poisoning. Expand Close PCSOs stand outside the Salisbury home of Sergei Skripal (Ben Mitchell/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp PCSOs stand outside the Salisbury home of Sergei Skripal (Ben Mitchell/PA) Mr Putin said the former agent was of no interest to the Kremlin since he was tried in Russia and exchanged in a spy swap in 2010. US president Donald Trump has said Saudi Arabias King Salman might not be there for two weeks without US military support. Mr Trump is seeking to put pressure on the close American ally over rising oil prices. Speaking at a campaign rally in Mississippi, Mr Trump said: I love the king, King Salman, but I said: King, were protecting you. You might not be there for two weeks without us. You have to pay for your military, you have to pay.' Expand Close Mr Trump is looking to press Saudi Arabia over rising oil prices (AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Mr Trump is looking to press Saudi Arabia over rising oil prices (AP) Mr Trump did not elaborate on when he spoke to the Saudi monarch. Mr Trump and Salman last shared a reported telephone call on Saturday. Benchmark Brent crude oil prices are close to 85 dollars a barrel a four-year high and analysts say it could reach 100 dollars. US petrol prices have gone up ahead of November mid-term elections. Mr Trump and Salman discussed efforts to maintain supplies to ensure the stability of the oil market and ensure the growth of the global economy in their phone call at the weekend, according to the state-run Saudi Press Agency. Expand Close President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally in Mississippi (AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally in Mississippi (AP) There was no immediate reaction in Saudi Arabia to Mr Trumps remarks. Riyadh has worked to cultivate warm relations with the US president after having rocky moments with his predecessor, Barack Obama. Saudi Arabia welcomed Mr Trump for his first overseas trip as president. The US administration and in particular his son-in-law Jared Kushner has sought a close relationship with King Salmans son Mohammed bin Salman, the countrys crown price and next in line to the throne in the Al Saud monarchy. But oil prices seem to be getting in the way. In July, Mr Trump tweeted without evidence that Saudi Arabia would increase its production maybe up to 2,000,000 barrels a day. Expand Close Mr Trump and King Salman last spoke by telephone at the weekend (AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Mr Trump and King Salman last spoke by telephone at the weekend (AP) Saudi Arabia currently produces some 10 million barrels of crude oil a day. Its record is 10.72 million barrels a day. Meanwhile, US fuel prices are up ahead of November mid-term elections in which Mr Trump already faces considerable political headwinds. The average price for a gallon of petrol in the US is 2.88 dollars (2.21), up from 2.55 dollars (1.96) a year ago. Mr Trump criticised oil producers in his speech before the UN General Assembly last week. He said: Opec and Opec nations are, as usual, ripping off the rest of the world, and I dont like it. Nobody should like it. We defend many of these nations for nothing, and then they take advantage of us by giving us high oil prices. Not good. We want them to stop raising prices. We want them to start lowering prices and they must contribute substantially to military protection from now on. The world is full of amusing people. While some pull pranks as ghosts in supermarkets, some just like playing dress up. But can you imagine someone wearing a cool superhero costume to work or college? Twitter Well, this law student didn't think much while pulling off this stunt. Hiram Yahir Salas Romero came to college to attend his graduation ceremony dressed up as spider-man. Check out the video. The student from Mexico took everyone by surprise at the University of Ciudad Juarez when he accepted his degree in the coolest costume ever. The students were given a brief to wear formal suits and ties, but Hiram chose his own attire. Twitter Ever since the event, his video and pictures have been going viral on social media. "None of the authorities said anything. They just looked at me unhappily. I don't remember if the Rector said anything, but I think I got a smile out of him," Romero told Lad Bible. Video/Screengrab He said that his mom not only supported him throughout his graduation years but also paid for the Spidey costume. Well, as long as this student got his degree and loved his attire, we're more than happy for his courage. More power to you, wall crawler! Iran's Foreign Ministry welcomed the United Nation's court's order that the United States have to lift sanctions on Iran in certain areas. The ministry said in a statement "the decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the U.S. sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel. "The United States must comply with its international commitments and lift obstacles to Iranian trade," Reuters cited the statement as saying. "The injunction issued by the International Court of Justice showed once again that it is the U.S. government that is becoming more and more isolated due to its wrong and extremist policies and, as a result, excessive demands from other countries," the statement reads. A lot of celebrities have taken a stand for Tanushree Dutta, who sent shockwaves across the nation for saying that she was sexually harassed by Nana Patekar ten years ago on the sets of Horn Ok Pleasss. While people are lending their support to the actress and hashtag I support Tanushree Dutta is trending on social media, Shakti Kapoor, on the other hand, chose to laugh the matter off. Twitter I don't know anything about this case. This was 10 years back, I was a kid back then, he was quoted as saying. #WATCH:I don't know anything about this case. This was ten years back, I was a kid back then: Shakti Kapoor on #TanushreeDutta's harassment allegations against Nana Patekar. (2/10/2018) pic.twitter.com/FxD7LHL6MM ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 And of course, he is being slammed by people who allege that he has often pawed women and spoke of tits & ass. In 2004, 4 years before he was "a kid", Shakti Kapoor was judging a reality show on Zee called "Item Girl". I was on my first job then & cudnt believe how openly he pawed women & spoke of tits & ass. This behaviour was profitable once. https://t.co/QiZcC7SWFX #TanushreeDutta https://t.co/Iwqp1qJTey Rohini Mohan (@rohini_mohan) October 3, 2018 Not to forget, in 2005, Shakti Kapoor was caught on camera asking sexual favours from an aspiring actress in exchange for easing her way into the world of showbiz. Dear Shakti Kapoor, grow up! Tushar Joshi (@TusharrJoshi) October 3, 2018 Whichever reporter asked this question to Shakti Kapoor needs a high-five. Hold men accountable. And then see the lies and cowardice that comes spilling out of their creepy mouths. https://t.co/QzlfhmYDKW Aditi (hot takes 4 koolkidz) (@awryaditi) October 3, 2018 "Mein toh chota sa, nanha sa, Munna sa, bacha Hun" pic.twitter.com/cm6AgFvq1Z Ninda Turtle (@NindaTurtles) October 3, 2018 Kid who was busy kidding on a couchhttps://t.co/W4MXCF1G0I DhaOnez (@DhaOnez) October 3, 2018 Tanushree Dutta was of similar age, when incident happened, as Shraddha Kapoor is today. And he still says this.. Wow Rajat Jain (@rajatjain2590) October 3, 2018 I feel sorry for Shradha Kapoor. Wish there a #MeToo for daughters who have such fathers. Sad https://t.co/sVRPSaLxa9 Raman (@being_delhite) October 3, 2018 In yet another horrific incident of rape, a 15-year-old girl was beaten to death by a group of men and her body was hung from a tree after she resisted the molestation attempt in Uttar Pradeshs Mainpuri area. The girl, a class 11 student, was coming back from school on a bicycle after attending a programme on Gandhi Jayanti when the three accused allegedly stopped her and dragged her to the bushes. When she tried to resist the sexual assault attempt, she was battered to death and her body was hung from a tree. representational image The men wanted to make her death look like a suicide. However, the villagers gathered at the spot and informed the police. All of them have been arrested. The Uttar Pradesh government is already grappling with lawlessness and compromised the safety of women. The 150th birth anniversary of the Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi was observed on October 02. Gandhi had struck a chord with leaders and people all over the world for his peaceful and non-violent ways of achieving independence and uniting people from all walks of life. However, his birth anniversary this year was marked by everything but peace. While thousands of farmers marched to the capital to demand justice, the paramilitary force, rapid action force, as well as the police officers, fired tear gas shells, water cannons at the protesters. Meanwhile, in Kolkata, a bomb blast rocked the Nagerbazar area at 9 am in front of a multi-storey building. The Times of India reported that ammonium nitrate was used in the low-intensity blast outside a fruit shop on the ground floor of the building, in a chaotic Kazipara area. Photo: BCCL The blast resulted in the death of a seven-year-old boy who was three days away from his seventh birthday. The disturbing fact is that the wounded seven-year-old, Bibhas Ghosh and his mother, Sita had to wait for almost three hours before they could be admitted to a hospital. While the child succumbed to his injuries, Sita is battling for her life. Nine other people were injured in the explosion, the Indian Express reported. Sita who works as a domestic help is among the three people in the building to have suffered grave injuries. Photo: BCCL Talking to media, Bibhass father Janmejoy Ghosh, a sweet seller said that his son could have been saved if he had received medical treatment on time. The local residents and Ghosh first rushed the mother-son to a private nursing home nearby, a private hospital 14 km away, and finally to the state-run SSKM hospital in Rabindra Sadan another 10 km away, where they reached around 12.40 pm. On reaching the hospital, they were asked to stand in a queue. We are poor people, that is why we could not take them to big private hospitals. My son got treatment very late. He was gasping for breath when we brought him to SSKM. Around 10 minutes after he was admitted, the doctors declared him dead, he told the Indian Express. Photo: BCCL The nursing home the family first went to didnt have any childcare or burn unit. Therefore, they had to rush to another hospital where the victims were given a saline drip. Reportedly, it is when a journalist called the Superintendent of SSKM, Professor Raghunath Misra that victims of the Dumdum blast were attended immediately. Bibhas suffered major burn injuries with parts of his face and torso completely burnt. Sita though suffered 30 per cent burns and is in the critical unit at the moment. The local residents at first thought that it was a gas cylinder blast but later, the police recovered iron nails though, there was no smell of gunpowder. The bombs were kept in a jute bag under the fruit stall. Photo: BCCL Meanwhile, in Kolkata, a bomb blast rocked the Nagerbazar area at 9 am in front of a multi-storey building. The Times of India reported that ammonium nitrate was used in the low-intensity blast outside a fruit shop on the ground floor of the building, in a chaotic Kazipara area. Read more Here's more top news of the day: 1) 12 Indian Firms Make It To Forbes List Of Worlds Best Companies, Walt Disney At The Top Forbes just released a list of 250 companies that are regarded as the worlds best companies and 12 Indian companies feature in this list mostly dominated by U.S multinationals. Read more 2) Mumbaikars Fight To Save City's Last Green Patch Aarey Forest That's Being Cut Down For Metro Construction The financial capital of India, Mumbai, is quickly turning into a concrete jungle. It is hard to find any gree patch in the sprawling city. While the debate between urbanisation and environment continues, the city is losing its greenery thick and fast. Read more 3) 15-Year-Old Girl Beaten To Death, Hung From Tree For Resisting Sexual Assault In UP representational image In yet another horrific incident of rape, a 15-year-old girl was beaten to death by a group of men and her body was hung from a tree after she resisted the molestation attempt in Uttar Pradeshs Mainpuri area. Read more 4) Railway Police Rescue 30 Runaway & Trafficked Kids Every Day And They Deserve All Our Respect! pti/afp Since January 2017, over 20,000 children have been rescued by RPF and sent to their homes and this data is until August this year. In three years before this, roughly the same number of children were rescued and sent home by RPF. Read more 5) Malaysia Arrests Syrian 'Tom Hanks,' Who Was Stranded At Airport For Seven Months A Syrian man who was stranded at a Malaysian airport for seven months has been arrested. Hassan al-Kontar had been stuck at the budget terminal of Kuala Lumpur International Airport since March 7, when officials refused to let him board a flight to Ecuador. Read more A Syrian man who was stranded at a Malaysian airport for seven months has been arrested. Hassan al-Kontar had been stuck at the budget terminal of Kuala Lumpur International Airport since March 7, when officials refused to let him board a flight to Ecuador. Kontar was sought by authorities in his country for failing to serve in the military and was also refused entry into Cambodia and wasnt allowed to go back to Malaysia due to visa issues. The 36-year-old man was left stranded at the airport surviving on donated airline meals and washing in the toilet. He made repeated appeals in a series of YouTube videos, lamenting that rights groups had refused him help and no one would take him in. But Malaysian immigration chief Mustafar Ali said that police had finally decided to arrest Kontar and remove him from the airport Monday, as his posts which were garnering growing media attention had embarrassed Malaysia. "His statements on social media shamed Malaysia," Ali was cited as saying by official news agency Bernama. "(He) was arrested yesterday because he was in a restricted area without a boarding pass. Officials will now work with the Syrian authorities to get him deported to his homeland, he said. A civil war has been raging in Syria for the past seven years, leaving more than 350,000 people dead. Kontar's case is reminiscent of the 2004 film "The Terminal," in which Tom Hanks plays a man who finds himself stuck in a New York airport after his government collapses, rendering his papers useless. Reports say Kontar had been working in the United Arab Emirates but was deported to Malaysia in January 2017. However, he overstayed a three-month tourist visa and is now blacklisted, meaning he cannot re-enter the country. He flew to Cambodia but was refused entry before being sent back to Kuala Lumpur airport on March 7. Come Durga Puja, the potters colony of Kolkata, Kumartuli (situated in North Kolkata), where a majority of the city idols are made is the buzz of the town. Idol makers are working day and night to meet the deadline. With numerous local, national and international demands for Durga idols, sculptures are seen at their workshops painting the idol, giving proper shape to them, and cladding them with jewellery and vibrant clothes. Walking down the narrow lanes of Kumartuli with a bag on my back and camera on one hand in quest to see preparations for the puja, the excitement within me rose multifold. Wherever my eyes went, I could see the goddess getting ready to be taken to pandals or marquee. Carved out of clay and straw idols at Kumartuli are initially made with a bit of clay from river Ganga. Umang Sharma The potters colony is situated on the banks of the river. Umang Sharma The goddess, who is worshipped as daughter in Bengal, transforms from a crude structure of clay-and-hay to a beautiful mother who is then taken to puja pandals across Kolkata. Umang Sharma With about nearly five hundred small and big workshops on both the sides of the by-lanes of Kumartuli, I could only see idol makers kneading clay with rapt attention and perfection. Umang Sharma The three-eyed-goddess rides on lion and is seen slaying the muscular demon, Mahisasura. Umang Sharma The goddess is the consort of Shiva. Umang Sharma At one hand, Durga is the slayer of the buffalo demon Mahisasura, a mother who has come home with her children, and on the other hand she is the darling daughter returning home to be pampered at the fullest at her maternal home. Umang Sharma For five days beginning the Panchami of Navratra, people start pandal hopping. The city wears a different look with colourful pandals, lights of different colours and people in almost all the streets entire day and night. Umang Sharma The festival is observed in her honour, to celebrate her victory over evil. Umang Sharma On Dashami (the tenth day), as the goddess bids adieu to her mortal family, one can hear cries of conch shells and Aaschhe bochhor abaar hobey (we are coming back next year)! Umang Sharma In a rather bizarre incident, Delhi Police has allegedly refused to arrest a 19-year-old girl who was accused of raping a woman. According to the police complaint filed by the 25-year-old woman, she was sodomised using a sex toy and subjected her to "continuous cruelty by a 19-year-old girl. BCCL The woman's ordeal began in March this year when she quit her job to invest in her own business. While she was looking for potential investors, she came across a youth identified as Rohit who introduced himself as working with HCL and was ready to invest in her business. According to News 18, the victim was then taken to an apartment in Dilshad Colony, where Rohit, and another accused named Rahul, raped her and shot obscene videos to blackmail the woman. "First, they forced me to have sex with them. Then it became a gang affair. Soon, I was sent to serve clients and the accused woman was always there in the apartment. She often tried to get close to me, and when I refused, she used to beat me," the victim told News 18. The victim further alleged that Rohit and Rahul pinned her down on all fours on the bed while the accused woman raped her using a sex toy to make her ready for anal sex for her customers". "The woman was not forced to do it. She was deriving pleasure out of it. I want to see her punished along with the other two," the victim said. bccl Based on her complaint Rahul has been arrested while Rohit is absconding, but the cops allegedly refused to arrest the 19-year-old girl claiming that Supreme Courts Constitution Bench had recently read down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which made same-sex intercourse an offence. However, this seems to be an unreasonable argument as the sex wasn't consensual. The victim who has since deposed in front of the magistrate at the Karkardooma district court has also told the court that she is six weeks pregnant and wishes to abort the foetus. The Nobel Prize has been around for 117 years. Yet, in that time, only two women have ever claimed the prestigious Nobel Prize in Physics. This week, we finally saw the third, after a gap of 55 years since the last woman received the honour in 1963. Reuters Donna Strickland, from the University of Waterloo in Canada, was just awarded the Physics prize for her work in laser physics alongside Gerard Mourou from the Ecole Polytechnique, Palaiseau, France. The two jointly share the prize with Arthur Ashkin from the Bell Laboratories in the US. In 117 years 892 laureates have claimed the Nobel prize, yet only 48 of them have been women. One of the first women to ever receive a Nobel Prize was the inimitable Marie Curie in 1903, which was also the first time the physics prize was awarded to a woman, for discovering radioactivity. Curie went on to also claim a Nobel Prize in Chemistry later in 1911, the first person to ever claim two of the honour. The second woman to claim the Nobel Physics Prize was Maria Goeppert Mayer, a nuclear physicist, for her work outlining the structure of the atomic nucleus. That was in 1963, 55 years ago. What earned the prize? To win the 2018 prize, Dr Strickland and Dr Mourou developed a way for us to use short burst lasers, using a technique they call Chirped Pulse Amplification (CPA). It was impossible to power up laser pulses before this because they would destroy the material amplifying them. This new technique though makes them more stable, allowing the lasers to be used for various purposes like cancer treatment, and the millions of corrective laser eye surgeries performed each year. For his part, Ashkin developed a laser technique he called optical tweezers, which sounds like a science fiction tale. His technology manipulates light particles, using them to create a pressure that allowed it to move objects. Basically, the technology uses light to pick up and move things around. Today, this is used in research to pick up miniscule things from bacteria, to living cells, to even atoms. The award is, totaling about $998,600, is split between the three, with half to Ashkin and half to be shared between Strickland and Mourou. Upending the patriarchy In conversations with the media, Dr Strickland has expressed her surprise when her name was announced at the Nobel ceremony earlier this week. She says that, even though shes always been treated like an equal in her field, she didnt expect the award because its been so long since a woman won. BREAKING NEWSThe Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has decided to award the #NobelPrize in Physics 2018 for groundbreaking inventions in the field of laser physics with one half to Arthur Ashkin and the other half jointly to Gerard Mourou and Donna Strickland. pic.twitter.com/PK08SnUslK The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 2, 2018 It is a minor victory for women in science though, especially in the light of how many in STEM still think today. Just a few days ago in fact, a physicist named Prof Alessandro Strumia from the Pisa University gave a lecture at the Cern particle physics lab during a workshop. In it, he said physics was built by men, not by invitation. His comments were specifically regarding his claims that women were being hired for scientific jobs over more capable men to suit a gender politics agenda. Regarded as highly offensive, Strumia faced backlash from a large portion of the community, including as suspension from his work at Cern. Dr Strickland however, called the physicists remarks silly, saying shes never paid much heed to the like. To mark the 149th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the world's tallest skyscraper paid a mighty tribute. The building was lit spectacularly in the colours of tricolour, with an image of Mahatma Gandhi and messages from him. Stunning LED display at the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai! Message of Mahatma Gandhi resonates world over as more than 120 locations world over join in paying homage to Bapu on #BapuAt150. pic.twitter.com/4ZYTNaSvee Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) 2 October 2018 "Be the change you wish to see in the world," "Non-violence is the virtue of the strong," "Poverty is the worst form of violence", were some of the thought-provoking messages that dotted the screen for 20 minutes. At the end of it all, a beautiful instrumental version of Mahatma Gandhi's favourite bhajan, Vaishnav Jana To, played in the background and left many overwhelmed. "It's a proud moment for all Indians," shared a Twitter user, "Thank you UAE, for showcasing messages from India's father," commented another. We congratulate India on their 72nd Independence Day from #BurjKhalifa. #EmaarDubai pic.twitter.com/mmSNnWek2s Burj Khalifa (@BurjKhalifa) 15 August 2018 Navdeep Suri, Indian Ambassador to UAE shared, "Such a joy to see the Burj Khalifa lit up with Gandhiji - visuals, text and music in perfect harmony". Many other places like Piccadilly Circus, Vienna's Welt Museum, Budapest's Buda Castle, Rome's Palazzo Senatorio also marked the International Day of Nonviolence and paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. A crowd of farmers reached the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border on Tuesday with an aim to reach Kisan Ghat in the national capital and draw the Centre's attention to a host of their problems. PTI The farmers started their protest march on September 23 from Haridwar and headed towards Kisan Ghat in Delhi for demonstration. It was here that government finally decided to engage with the protesters. The protestors tried to trespass the barricades set up by the police and during the tussel, this picture of a farmer clicked by PTI news agency's Ravi Choudhary captured the anger brewing among people in the community. Picture of the day! By the brilliant Ravi Choudhary (@choudharyview )#KisanKrantiYatra pic.twitter.com/TFcKMfQeDE Daksh Panwar (@Daksh280) 2 October 2018 The farmers, estimated at around 25,000, were stopped at the Delhi border, where heavy police and paramilitary deployment were waiting for them at the UP gate on National Highway 24. The picture soon touched a chord on the Internet and went viral. "This pic will haunt for BJP for decades (sic)," wrote one user, #1 Solidarity with the Indian farmers defying police violence at Delhi border. Laal Salam#Kisankrantiyatra pic.twitter.com/6pmhFS95XM Auwn Gurmani (@auwn_) 2 October 2018 This photo will ever remain etched in history. History is full of peasant movements, peasants fighting against any govt apathy. Peasant is otherwise a tolerant creature. #GandhiJayanti #BKU #KisanKrantiYatra pic.twitter.com/D1V810P9VP Nirmesh Singh (@bulandnirmesh) 2 October 2018 #2 What a brave man this pic will haunt for BJP for decades. #KisanKrantiYatra pic.twitter.com/9gZ8XdQWPx Satish Kumar (@satishkumar1012) 2 October 2018 #3 #4 "When we seek solution to our problems in the village, we are told that the government sits in Delhi. Now, when we have come to Delhi to talk to the government, we are denied entry, batons are charged and water canons opened on us while our tractors are damaged," said Jaiveer Singh, 60, from Budhana in Muzaffarnagar. "This is injustice by the government," he told PTI. The protesting farmers, however, decided to stay put at the Delhi border, where they have been stopped by the police from entering the national capital. Naresh Tikait, the chief of Bharat Kisan Union (BKU), which has given the protest call, said the farmers are not satisfied with the government's assurance. Agency Inputs: PTI The energy supply of Europe cannot be imagined without Russia, Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said. When it comes to energy supply of Europe and Austria, it cannot be imagined without Russia, whether someone likes it or not," he said before his visit to St. Petersburg. In this regard, the Austrian Chancellor drew attention to the fact that there is a need for enhancing dialogue with those European partners, with which they have tense relations. "The conduct of a dialogue is necessary because in the long run peace on our continent is possible only with Russia, and not against it," RIA Novosti cited the Austrian Chancellor as saying. Earlier it was reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin will hold talks with Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz in St. Petersburg. The senior research fellow at the European Research Centre of the International Relations Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladimir Olenchenko, speaking with a correspondent of Vestnik Kavkaza, noted that Sebastian Kurz only repeats the fact known to European leaders of the past. Kurtz's statement corresponds to the objective realities, both European and global, although I cannot say that he was the first here. This thesis was actively promoted by De Gaulle, the leader of France, he said. "It is gratifying that the current Austrian Chancellor does not reject his words about the need to normalize European relations with Russia, which he said in the past. The Austrian political leadership consistently pursues a line on normalizing relations with Russia. It would good if they switch to practice as well, in particular, in the framework of the EU," Vladimir Olenchenko stressed. Director of the Institute of Strategic Planning and Forecasting, Professor Alexander Gusev, pointed out that Kurtzs position supported by many leaders in the European Union. "A number of other European politicians, such as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Czech President Milos Zeman, Finnish President Sauli Niiniste speak openly, and all other Europeans understand what Russia is - but, unfortunately, the Americans have a great influence on them, especially on the countries of old Europe," he said. A four-day weekend is just a dream for all of us. Work has taken over our lives in ways unimaginable, some hardly find the time to take a deep breath amid numerous deadlines and meetings. But across the world companies are trying their best to change 'busy culture' that's been blown out of proportion. One of the most popular experiments being the four-day work week. Back in 2018, a New Zealand financial rolled out a four-day work week on a trial basis in order to test how employees performed. They were so impressed with the results by the end that they decided to make it permanent. unsplash/Picture for representation According to a report in Guardian, 250 staff at Perpetual Guardian - a trusts and estate planning firm - tried out a four-day working week over March and April of 2018. They worked for four eight-hour days but got paid for five days of work. A panel of academics who studied the effects on Perpetual Guardian's employees, workers showed lower stress levels, higher levels of job satisfaction and an improved sense of work-life balance. "What we've seen is a massive increase in engagement and staff satisfaction about the work they do, a massive increase in staff intention to continue to work with the company and we've seen no drop in productivity," Company founder Andrew Barnes told the New Zealand Herald. The experiment had potential implications for everything from work/life balance to the gender pay gap and the mental well-being of workers, states the report. Mr Barnes said plan must start a worldwide trend and urges other New Zealand business owners to give it a go. The NewsHub quoted him as saying, "The biggest resistance is from leaders. We all look at this and say no it wouldn't couldn't possibly work. Just try it. What's the worst that can happen?" Seems like this policy is quickly catching up across the world. GETTY IMAGES In 2019, Microsoft carried out a 'Working Reform Project' called the Work-Life Choice Challenge Summer 2019 for one month - giving 2,300 employees every Friday off, in addition to Saturday and Sunday.ble with chemicals alone." According to reports, the four days pushed everyone to get things done for the week, many meetings were cut, shortened, or changed to virtual meetings instead of in-person. That's not all, 25.4 per cent of the employees fewer days off during the month and used 23.1 per cent less electricity in the office - that's also contributing to sustainability. 92.1 percent of employees said that they liked the four-day workweek at the end of the trial. Many companies around the world have also held similar trials, and reported favourable results. In 2018, a study conducted by the International Labour Organisation showed shorter hours generally resulted in higher productivity. Reports state that Microsoft Japan reportedly plans to repeat its four-day work week experiment next summer. Priyanka Chopra has worked with Unicef since 2006 and was appointed as the India and global Unicef Goodwill Ambassador for Child Rights in 2010 and 2016. (IANS photo) Actor Sanjay Dutt has been visiting different cities across India for his motivational pep talks to the youth in which he spreads the awareness on drugs and their evils. (photo provided) Switch the Market flag Open the menu and switch the Market flag for targeted data from your country of choice. for targeted data from your country of choice. Three days after US president Donald Trump called Saudi King Salman bin Abdul Aziz to push for more oil input into the market, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo held his own phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Wednesday, The National reported. In a readout, the State Departments spokeswoman Heather Nauert said Mr Pompeo thanked the Crown Prince for his continued, strong partnership [and] discussed a broad range of regional and bilateral issues, including Yemen and countering the Iranian regime's malign activities in the region. The Secretary and the Crown Prince also discussed areas for expanding US-Saudi collaboration, she said. The statement didnt mention rising oil prices ($84 a barrel) that have been a source of increasing US-OPEC tension in the last few weeks. Under the Good Samaritan Laws, laypeople, employers and staff are always exempt from the medical malpractice component however, if a company does have a defibrillator, then there is an obligation to have a staff member trained and the equipment up to date, she tells Insurance Business. Just like with the testing of your electrical equipment, you have to make sure its regularly checked and the maintenance is carried out because theres no point having one that doesnt work when you need it and that creates an extra thing for employers to worry about. Of course, regular staff training and equipment maintenance comes at a cost not to mention the price paid by a company to actually purchase and install the defibrillator so Cooper says companies should weigh up their level of risk. Its a great idea but small businesses dont have a bottomless pit of money to spend so it comes down to how they can best prioritise their money, says Cooper. If their workforce is 70% over 65 and theyre doing physical work in a factory, then I can understand why theyd want one in there but its not the same situation if theyve got an office full of 20-year-old desk jockeys. Importantly, Cooper also says installing a defibrillator wont have any impact on premiums for business owners and can even create a bigger risk its not managed properly. Graham Robert Morant, 69, was convicted by a Brisbane Supreme Court jury of assisting and counselling his wife to take her own life in order to claim the $1.4 million payout from Mrs Morants three life insurance policies, for which he was sole beneficiary, ABC reported. Morant told his wife, who suffered from chronic back pain, depression, and anxiety, that the insurance money would be used to build a religious commune. Morant initially denied involvement in his wifes suicide until he learnt of CCTV footage of his visit to the hardware store. "Slowly, very slowly, over the course of the next hour the accused explained he did assist his wife in her suicide," Crown prosecutor Michael Lebanese told the court. During the trial, Judy Dent, Mrs Morants best friend, testified that Mrs Morant made it clear her husband wanted the insurance money. Dent said that a week before Mrs Morants her death, she told her I have to do it and I have to kill myself and Graham will be helping me. Morant was refused bail until his sentencing, which is set to take place on Oct. 19 due to the complexity of the case, ABC said. The Dero team brings a wealth of experience and industry knowledge, and Id like to offer them a warm welcome, commented Paul Morris, head of Western Europe at Willis Towers Watson. France is a key market for us and this move reinforces our leading position as a global adviser with an extensive local network. Gras Savoye Willis Towers Watson France is the first insurance broker in the country. Its managing director, Gilles Beneplanc, believes Normandy holds clear growth potential. I am thrilled by this deal, which builds on our strategy to develop and strengthen our regional network, said Beneplanc. According to the announcement, Dero Courtage chief executive Christophe Dero will serve as managing director of the new business unit, with support from the senior management team of Jerome Lees and Bruno Poyac. Meanwhile the existing teams in Le Havre will remain as clients main contacts. Joining such a prominent French risk adviser enables us to benefit from the full strength of Willis Towers Watson, and the wide range of solutions they offer, including human capital management, noted Dero. It will allow us to consolidate and expand our ability to support our clients in their development and their access to new markets, especially in international business. With the advent of Brexit, the trade and regulatory relationship between the US and the UK may change significantly in the near future, said Steve Simchak, vice president and chief international counsel for AIA whos been leading the efforts on this coalition. Since the UK and the US are arguably the two most [well-known] insurance markets in the world, we felt it was very important that the insurance industry both in the US and in the UK be part of the collaborative efforts amongst the financial services industries to engage with both of our governments on bilateral trade and regulatory issues. Read more: Berkshire Hathaway announces post-Brexit location The formal coalition has only been in the works for the past few months, but the AIA decided that it would be a smart move to have more processes and structures in place for US and UK insurance industries to coordinate their communications with their governments and with each other, added Simchak. The coalition has put forward three main themes: promote deeper regulatory cooperation for the benefit of market participants, clients, and investors; maximize cross-border market access; and recognize the important role that the changing technological landscape plays in financial services. Thats an emerging area with both governments right now, so we thought it would be a useful purpose for this coalition to communicate with our governments about the best way to regulate fintech and insurtech, and whether there can be some transatlantic or US-UK regulatory cooperation on fintech and insurtech, said Simchak. The uncertainty in what a post-Brexit world will look like is one of the challenges that Simchak predicts will impact the coalition, but likewise underscores its importance. The Brexit process is ongoing and nobody knows yet what the financial services relationship between the UK and the EU will be, which of course will then inform the relationship between the UK and the US, he explained. Recognizing that there will be challenges in negotiating agreements and in structuring the new relationship between the US and the UK is really one of the reasons why we formed this coalition. Well do better as an industry in our ability to inform our governments if we can work together to overcome those challenges. Related stories: Lloyd's of London reviewing all aspects of business after major loss and CEO exit Political risk on the rise in 2018 Marsh They were not going to get anything, Kevin Demet, who represents 11 of Erns 12 nieces and nephews, told Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. So thats a big win. In 2016, former agent Blanche Berenzweig collected a $1.6 million inheritance from the estate of Ern. Ern had dementia and lived the life of a recluse; he eventually died of his medical condition at the age of 92, leaving everything to Berenzweig, who was then a financial adviser. Over the last few years of his life, Ern had befriended Berenzweig, who once sold him an annuity. Ern would occasionally visit Berenzweigs office in Mequon, WI to discuss topics such as history and world events, records show. It was during this time that Berenzweig was named Erns power of attorney for health and medical issues, as well as the sole beneficiary of two annuities, and executor and sole beneficiary of his estate. She was even responsible for arranging Erns private funeral and cremation. According to state records, Berenzweig collected $276,648 from one annuity a month after Erns death from advanced dementia. The next month, she collected another $734,467 from a second policy. Citing Erns failing health and the potential for abuse, his nieces and nephews objected to the will in Milwaukee County Circuit Court, saying Berenzweig had illegally pressured Ern into naming her the sole beneficiary. In June, state regulators ordered Berenzweig to give the annuity money to the estate, with the trial scheduled for this week. However, Berenzweigs own deteriorating health condition prompted the settlement talks. It became evident ... that she could not handle a full trial, said Michael Ganzer, Berenzweigs lawyer. She wanted to be back to square one. As part of the settlement, Berenzweig will only get to keep up to $150,000 to cover her attorney fees and associated costs. Her insurance license was revoked in June by Wisconsin State Insurance Commissioner Ted Nickel. During a 2017 hearing over her license, records said that her client Ern had little contact with relatives, and that his home was a fire trap filled with piles of newspaper, junk, and food. Related stories: Fake agent takes premiums, pockets thousands before hurricane hits - reports Insurance agent made nearly $5 million, paid no tax The Russian Energy Week international forum has started in Moscow and St. Petersburg today, on October 3. The Russian Energy Week is expected to be attended by energy ministers from about 30 states, including Qatar Minister of Energy and Industry Mohammed Saleh Al Sada, North Korean Electric Power Industry Minister Kim Man Su, Serbian Minister of Energy and Mining Aleksandar Antic, Belarusian Energy Minister Viktor Karankevich, Minister of Mines and Hydrocarbons of Equatorial Guinea Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto, Azerbaijan Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov and others. Iranian Minister of Petroleum Bijan Namdar Zangeneh was also expected to take part, but his visit to Russia was cancelled on the last day. The ministers will be able to discuss state policy in the energy sector during a special ministerial conference organized as part of the Russian Energy Week. They will ponder on how emerging factors - the growing use of electric cars, trade wars, technological inequality and other developments - may affect state policies and how the states can efficiently prepare for the possible black swan scenario in the global energy sector. Organizers expect that the Russian Energy Week will be attended by more than 10,000 representatives of the industry. Its program includes more than 60 business events, including panel sessions, roundtables, lectures and open meetings. According to Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak, meetings of OPEC ministers, Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and UN officials will be organized on the sidelines of the forum. The forums main event will be the plenary session with the participation of Russian President Vladimir Putin on October 3, headlined Sustainable Energy for a Changing World. Along with the Russian president, the discussion will also be attended by Minister of Energy, Industry, and Mineral Resources of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Khalid al-Falih, Royal Dutch Shell Plc CEO Ben van Beurden, Fortum Corporation President Pekka Lundmark, Total CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors Patrick Pouyanne, and Enel S.p.A CEO Francesco Starace. TV presenter, PBS NewsHour special correspondent Ryan Chilcote will moderate the event. Although Putin is not scheduled to have separate meetings with the ministers, he is expected to meet with OPEC Secretary General Mohammed Barkindo. At the moment, the Russian government mulls joining OPEC as an observer state. Natural gas industry issues will be raised at the Petersburg International Gas Forum, to be held as part of the Russian Energy Week on October 2-5. The key event of the meeting will be a plenary session with the participation of Gazprom CEO Alexei Miller to discuss the role of gas in the global economys energy balance. The gas forum is attended by representatives of relevant ministries and agencies, the Russian parliament, heads of major international companies, members of the International Gas Union, as well as researchers, experts and journalists. The interest in our active shooter / workplace violence insurance program is ever-increasing. Were seeing 200 risks and placing about 50 policies every month. Thats a significantly different story to this time last year, said Paul Marshall, managing director at McGowan Program Administrators. Were now seeing shooting events happening every day and public awareness is the highest it has ever been. According to Marshall, two things occurred in the past year that really changed the active shooter insurance landscape. The Las Vegas shooting triggered a huge victim response fund, with $31 million being paid out to victims within 90 days, based around how many days they were hospitalized. From an insurance perspective, that speed is unheard of, Marshall commented, as such events normally roll into a lengthy lawsuit. Then we had the Parkland shooting in Florida. The Educational Foundation quickly collected more than $8 million for victims and set up a committee to decide on how to disburse these funds. And then for the first time ever, the Florida legislate announced they would pay for everyones funerals, which again is unheard of, Marshall told Insurance Business. These two items tell us what the public wants. Public demands around duty of care are shifting. In the US, several sources of law obligate an employer to a duty of care for the safety, health and security of employees, in particular the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Act of 1970. The duty of care requires protection against workplace violence hazards and employers can be held liable for negligence if employees receive reasonably foreseeable injuries. The US public is now demanding more out of the duty of care principal, regardless of liability, Marshall commented. A lot of prospective clients are now coming to us, citing victim coverages as their number one priority. They understand that it might take away from their business income protection and their liability, but its something they want to commit to for the US public. The driver of a charter bus that fatally struck an investment banker riding a Citi Bike in Manhattan last year, marking the first death involving the citys bike-share program, was found guilty of failing to yield the right of way, a misdemeanor. Dave Lewis was also convicted of failure to exercise due care, a violation, at his bench trial involving the death of Dan Hanegby, 36, of Brooklyn, who was riding in the Chelsea neighborhood when he collided with the bus, fell from the bike and was run over. Lawyers for Lewis, who remained at the scene, noted that Hanegby was wearing headphones and was completely and totally unaware of his surroundings. They called his death an unfortunate accident. There was ample time and ample location for this bicyclist to pull over, defense lawyer Jeremy Saland told the judge. Prosecutors argued that Hanegby had the right of way. The defendant thought that the cyclist should move over, not that he himself should have slowed down, Raffaela Belizaire said. Bicycle advocates supported the verdict. Drivers are rarely held accountable for recklessly taking lives on New York City streets, Paul Steely White, executive director of Transportation Alternatives, told The New York Times . All too often, police hastily exonerate drivers while erroneously blaming bicyclists and pedestrians for their own deaths. Lewis faces up to 30 days in jail for failing to yield the right of way and up to 15 days for failure to exercise due care when he is to be sentenced Oct. 22. Information from: The New York Times Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics New York Personal Auto Starr Insurance Cos. announced the appointment of Joost Vink as head of Europe. He will be responsible for the profitable growth of all European operations except the United Kingdom. Vink joins the company from HDI Global where he was managing director of the Netherlands Branch from November 2014 to September 2018, according to Vinks LinkedIn profile. Prior to that, he was general manager for AIG Europe in the Netherlands (December 2012 to May 2014), the profile added. He also held positions at Chartis where he had been general manager for the Netherlands Branch (July 2012 to December 2012), regional reinsurance officer in London (September 2010 to September 2012), and general manager, Germany (September 2008 to October 2010). Vink worked as regional president and managing director for AIG South Africa (2005 to 2008). He also was general manager for Philam Insurance (January 2001-December 2004) and general manager for AIG Europe in the Netherlands (1996-2000). We are excited for Joost to join Starr and head our European operations, he brings more than 34 years of insurance and client relationship experience, stated Jim Herbert, chief executive officer, Starr Underwriting Agents Ltd. His extensive background and leadership skills will significantly enhance Starrs growth plans for the region and strengthen relationships with clients and producers. Vink will report directly to Herbert who heads all of Starrs European and United Kingdom operations. Source: Starr Insurance Cos. Topics Europe A ReinaissanceRe shareholders call for the company to explore a possible sale is drawing a non-committal response from management. TimesSquare Capital Management, an institutional management firm and RenaissanceRe investor since 2008, wrote RenaissanceRe CEO Kevin ODonnell on Sept. 7 with their pitch to explore other strategic options. They argued the companys position as a standalone reinsurer hasnt led to any value creation for shareholders, due in large part to dampening prices. Noting the increasing consolidation of the industry, the TimesSquare letter asked the RenaissanceRe board to consider strategic alternatives, including a possible sale, in order to boost shareholder value. Ian Anthony Rosenthal, TimesSquare senior founding partner and portfolio manager, and Seth Bienstock, partner and director, signed the letter. On Oct. 2, ReinassanceRe responded to the letter with a public statement welcoming open and constructive communications with all shareholders. The Bermuda-based company noted it has met with TimesSquare management in recent years, and that its CEO and chairman separately met with TimesSquare within the last few months. The company was non-committal, however, regarding the idea of exploring a possible sale. We have considered fully TimesSquares views and have shared them with our board. Our board understands, and is committed to, its fiduciary duties to act in the best interests of all shareholders, RenaissanceRe said in its statement. Our board and management team continuously focus on enhancing shareholder value through execution of the companys strategic plan. We will maintain an open and active dialogue with all of our shareholders as we continue to work to enhance shareholder value. TimesSquares Rosenthal and Bienstock responded with a public letter, also on Oct. 2, expressing hope that ODonnell had given serious consideration to their push for a RenaissanceRe sale. TimesSquare also released its initial Sept. 7 letter in order to outline our views for shareholders and ensure that our thoughts on maximizing shareholder value are as explicit as possible. The firm was cordial, and urged further conversation on the matter. Sources: RenaissanceRe, TimesSquare This article was originally published in Wells Media Groups Carrier Management, the magazine for property/casualty insurance carrier executives. Totten Insurance Group Inc., a Toronto-based managing general agency, announced it has acquired Anderson McTague & Associates Ltd. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Headquartered in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, Anderson McTague has served Atlantic Canadas independent insurance brokers since 1937, said Totten in a statement. Anderson McTague is Canadas longest-standing MGA coverholder for Lloyds, providing customized solutions to a broad range of hard-to-place and standard risks, added Totten. Totten plans to leverage Anderson McTagues experience with Lloyds as well as its detailed knowledge of Atlantic Canada to further support broker partners. Anderson McTague is the regions most trusted MGA when it comes to hard-to-place-risk insurance products, said Denis Dei Cont, president of Totten. They have a team of experienced professionals that provide high-quality service and innovative solutions, and we are eager to leverage this combination of expertise and creativity to meet the needs of Atlantic Canadas independent brokers. Anderson McTagues president, Chuck McTague, will join Totten and report to Denis Dei Cont. The service commitment that we provide to our broker partners has always been our focus, said McTague. Joining Totten will not only help us continue to provide quick, efficient and customized products that our broker partners will appreciate, but it will also deepen our resources and capabilities. About Totten With offices across Canada, Totten Insurance Group supports the broker community in key segments, including commercial property and casualty, commercial casualty, healthcare, hospitality, construction, forestry, mining, professional liability and personal lines. Source: Totten Insurance Group Topics Mergers Agencies Excess Surplus Insurance Wholesale Lloyd's Canada U.S. Congress is taking the first steps toward setting national rules governing how companies use consumers data although one of its goals might be to prevent states from enacting stronger privacy protections of their own. The approach being pondered by policymakers and pushed by the internet industry leans toward a relatively light government touch. Thats in contrast to stricter European rules that took effect in May and a California law that takes effect in 2020. Other states are also considering more aggressive protections. However it works out, any regulatory push will find it challenging to reconcile the concerns of privacy advocates who want people to have more control over the use of their personal data where theyve been, what they view, who their friends are and the powerful companies who mine that information for profit. During a Senate hearing last week, several Democratic senators warned that a national law could simply be used to override state efforts. Calling that pre-emption the Holy Grail for the industry, Democratic Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii said it wont get the bipartisan support it needs if the goal is merely to replace Californias law with a weaker, non-progressive federal statute. Senior executives from AT&T, Amazon, Apple, Google, Twitter and Charter Communications all told senators that they support a federal proposal that could negate inconsistent state privacy laws. Facebook, which faced a major congressional grilling over privacy back in April, was not present at the hearing. Apple, which doesnt rely on advertising for revenue, was the most vocal in support of a stronger federal law. Bud Tribble, Apples vice president of software technology, said the bar would have to be high enough in the federal legislation to provide meaningful consumer protections. The Senate Commerce Committee hearing comes amid increasing anxiety over safeguarding consumers data online and recent scandals that have stoked outrage among users and politicians. The committees chairman, Republican Sen. John Thune of South Dakota, said both Republicans and Democrats now want to reach consensus on a national privacy law that will help consumers, promote innovation, reward organizations with little to hide and force shady practitioners to clean up their act. An early move in President Donald Trumps tenure set the tone on data privacy. He signed a bill into law in April 2017 that allows internet providers to sell information about their customers browsing habits. The legislation scrapped Obama-era online privacy rules aimed at giving consumers more control over how broadband companies like AT&T, Comcast and Verizon share that information. Allie Bohm, policy counsel at the consumer group Public Knowledge, said examples abound of companies not only using the data to market products but also to profile consumers and restrict who sees their offerings: African Americans not getting access to ads for housing, minorities and older people excluded from seeing job postings. What is needed, privacy advocates maintain, is legislation to govern the entire life cycle of consumers data: how its collected, used, kept, shared and sold. The 28-nation European Union put in strict new rules this spring that require companies to justify why theyre collecting and using personal data gleaned from phones, apps and visited websites. Companies also must give EU users the ability to access and delete data, and to object to data use under one of the claimed reasons. A similar law in California will compel companies to tell customers upon request what personal data theyve collected, why it was collected and what types of third parties have received it. Companies will be able to offer discounts to customers who allow their data to be sold and to charge those who opt out a reasonable amount, based on how much the company makes selling the information. Andrew DeVore, Amazons vice president and associate general counsel, told the Senate panel that it should consider the possible unintended consequences of Californias approach. For instance, he said the state law defines personal information too broadly such that it could include all data. The California law doesnt take effect until 2020 and applies only to California consumers, but it could have fallout effects on other states. And its strong enough to have rattled Big Tech, which is seeking a federal data-privacy law that would be more lenient toward the industry. A national privacy framework should be consistent throughout all states, pre-empting state consumer-privacy and data security laws, the Internet Association said in a recent statement . The group represents about 40 big internet and tech companies, spanning Airbnb and Amazon to Zillow. A strong national baseline creates clear rules for companies. The Trump White House said this summer that the administration is working on it, meeting with companies and other interested parties. The goal is a policy that is the appropriate balance between privacy and prosperity, White House spokeswoman Lindsay Walters said. We look forward to working with Congress on a legislative solution. Matt OBrien reported from Providence, Rhode Island. Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics California Legislation USA Europe Jurors weighing claims that Johnson & Johnsons iconic baby powder is laced with cancer-causing asbestos failed in a second case in two weeks to reach a verdict, resulting in another mistrial. The latest case was brought by a retired computer salesman who blamed J&J for his mesothelioma, a cancer linked to asbestos exposure, and sought more than $12 million in damages. The Los Angeles jury, which deliberated for several days before a state judge decided the panel was hopelessly deadlocked, voted 8-4 against J&J, one juror short of a victory for the plaintiff, Kirk Von Salzen. The mistrial is the second straight in lawsuits attempting to link the companys talc products to cancer. A Pasadena, California, jury also deadlocked a little over a week ago, in a lawsuit brought by a school counselor who blamed her mesothelioma on asbestos in J&J talc. Im satisfied with eight of 12 jurors seeing the evidence for what it was that Johnson & Johnson was callous with some safety protocols that led to the allowance of asbestos in their talc products, which caused Mr. Von Salzens disease, Stuart Purdy, Von Salzens lawyer, said in an interview. A J&J spokeswoman said the two mistrials with hung juries reflect the careful consideration by these juries of the real science in these cases. We look forward to a new trial to present our defense which rests on decades of independent, non-litigation driven scientific evaluations, none of which have found that Johnsons Baby Powder contains asbestos, Kim Montagnino said in a statement. In the last case to end conclusively, a jury in Missouri awarded $4.69 billion in July to more than 20 women with ovarian cancer who alleged asbestos in the companys baby powder and Shower to Shower products caused their illnesses. Three Decades There are more than 10,000 claims in U.S. courts alleging J&Js talc products cause cancer. Most are brought by women alleging they developed ovarian cancer from J&J baby powder and Shower to Shower talc products. Von Salzen, 74, said he used J&Js baby powder daily for about 30 years and was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2017. Von Salzen said he also used other talcs, but J&J was the only defendant left at trial. J&J knew for decades that its talc was contaminated with asbestos fibers and hid this from consumers, Purdy told jurors last week at the end of the trial. J&J never shared with the Food and Drug Administration positive findings of asbestos in the talc it was using, he said. Theres no dispute that asbestos, if its in the product, causes disease, Purdy said. When someone like Mr. Von Salzen uses it over his lifetime for 30 years on a daily basis, that contributes to his risk of developing cancer, asbestos-related cancer. Thoroughly Tested Von Salzen had been an active man before developing mesothelioma, Purdy said. Now he has constant shortness of breath and can barely walk across the room, the lawyer said. Von Salzen has less than a year to live, he added. The company denied that its products have ever contained asbestos or that its responsible for Von Salzens illness. J&Js baby powder has been repeatedly and thoroughly tested, Bruce Hurley, J&Js attorney, told jurors at the end of trial. It was not and is not contaminated with asbestos, he said. No published study in any scientific journal has ever concluded, ever, in the world, that Johnsons Baby Powder causes mesothelioma, Hurley said. Cosmetic talc doesnt cause mesothelioma. Lawyers for J&J and Von Salzen agreed he had sustained about $810,000 in economic damages connected to the cancer diagnosis. Von Salzen sought $12 million for past and future pain and suffering, plus unspecified damages for his wifes claim she will suffer from losing her husband to a premature death. J&Js talc supplier, a unit of Paris-based Imerys SA, was dropped from the case during trial, a company spokesman said. Imerys settled the earlier Los Angeles case that ended in a hung jury. It also settled the St. Louis case that generated the $4.69 billion verdict, paying at least $5 million to resolve the claims against it, according to people familiar with the matter. The case is Von Salzen v. American International Industries Inc., BC680576, California Superior Court, Los Angeles County. Copyright 2021 Bloomberg. Zurich Insurance has launched Zurich Cyber Insurance Policy with an updated form designed to help businesses protect themselves from cybersecurity risks. The new form replaces Zurichs Security & Privacy policy and brings together coverages previously available only through endorsements. Through this policy Zurich now includes network security monitoring and pre-breach services as part of its cyber insurance policy. The cyber insurance policy is consistent for Zurich customers worldwide and is available in North America through the Specialty E&O, Wholesale and Canadian underwriting teams. In addition to previously covered offerings such as breach costs, business income loss, and dependent business income loss, the new policy features coverages previously not offered, including: Affirmative GDPR and PCI wording for regulatory proceedings, assessments, fines and penalties associated with the enforcement of GDPR and Payment Card Industry (PCI) Reputational damage coverage for reputational damage associated with an adverse media event resulting from a cyber breach Social Engineering Fraud Transfer Coverage for funds lost from a social engineering fraud event System Failure and Dependent System Failure coverages for the failure of a system or the failure of a service providers system resulting in a business interruption Voluntary shutdown and crypto-mining The policy provides coverage to $25 million and includes: Definition of insured person extended to include temporary employees, volunteers or interns Broad definition of computer system, including industrial control systems and bring-your-own-device (BYOD) programs New first dollar claims avoidance coverage built into the policy The new streamlined application includes simplified, clear language aligned with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework. It follows the NIST framework with questions that are easy to understand and complete. Through its collaboration with ZenOpz, a leading managed security service provider (MSSP), Zurich cyber insurance policyholders around the globe can now receive complimentary 24/7 network security monitoring and vulnerability management services to assist companies in identifying specific risks that may exist and help them plan an effective path to remediation. All Zurich cyber insurance policyholders have the option to engage with ZenOpz and thru them will have access to: Initial 360-degree review providing customers with a view of their overall data security program Security Intelligence Monitoring Service Continuous (24x7x365) Log Monitoring, Alerting and Reporting Services Weekly vulnerability scanning and reporting services with Patch Management recommendations The first tier of cover includes the first 50 endpoints, at no additional cost for customers. Endpoints can be any network connected device that generates log data, including firewalls, servers, user workstations and connected laptops. Customers can add monitoring for more than fifty devices for an incremental fee to ZenOpz. Topics Cyber Federal officials have sued the owners of a number of residential rental properties in or around Oklahoma City, alleging that subjected female tenants in and applicants for those properties were subject to sexual harassment, coercion, intimidation and threats. The complaint filed by the Justice Department names four defendants: the Executor of the Estate of Walter Ray Pelfrey; Rosemarie Pelfrey, as Trustee of the W. Ray Pelfrey Revocable Trust and the Rosemarie Pelfrey Revocable Trust; Omega Enterprises LLC; and Pelfrey Investment Company LLC. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Westert Walter Ray Pelfrey sexually harassed female tenants and applicants of rental properties from at least 2001 through 2017. According to the complaint, he engaged in harassment that included, among other things, making unwelcome sexual advances and comments, engaging in unwanted sexual touching, demanding or pressuring female applicants to engage in sexual acts to obtain rental housing, offering to reduce rent and overlooking or excusing late or unpaid rent in exchange for sex, evicting or threatening to evict female tenants who objected to or refused sexual advances, and entering the homes of female tenants without their consent. The lawsuit further alleges that, upon the death of Walter Ray Pelfrey on July 15, the Estate of Walter Ray Pelfrey assumed liability for discriminatory housing practices. In addition, the lawsuit alleges that Rosemarie Pelfrey in her role as trustee, Omega Enterprises LLC, and Pelfrey Investment Company LLC are liable under the Fair Housing Act because Walter Ray Pelfrey managed the rental properties on their behalf when he engaged in the harassment, coercion, intimidation and threats. Female tenants should not be subjected to illegal harassment and demands for sex, said Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore in a statement released by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Oklahoma. The current lawsuit seeks monetary damages to compensate the victims, civil penalties and a court order barring future discrimination. The complaint contains allegations of unlawful conduct, which must be proven in federal court. In October 2017, the Justice Department launched an initiative to combat sexual harassment in housing. In April 2018, the department announced the nationwide rollout of the initiative, including three major components: a new joint Task Force with the Department of Housing and Urban Development to combat sexual harassment in housing, an outreach toolkit to leverage the Departments nationwide network of U.S. Attorneys Offices, and a public awareness campaign, including the launch of a national Public Service Announcement. Since launching the initiative, the Justice Department has filed six lawsuits alleging a pattern or practice of sexual harassment in housing more than it has filed in any previous fiscal year. The Justice Department has filed or settled 11 sexual harassment cases since January 2017 and has recovered over $1.6 million for victims of sexual harassment in housing. Source: U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Oklahoma Topics Lawsuits USA Oklahoma Workers compensation rates will soon be less expensive for businesses in West Virginia. According to West Virginia Insurance Commissioner Allan McVey, a filing for a 13 percent decrease in voluntary market loss costs by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) has been approved and will take effect Nov. 1, 2018. The decrease applies to all standard classifications. In addition, an overall average assigned risk rate level decrease of 10.3 percent was approved and will also go into effect Nov. 1. According to NCCI, the proposed decrease was based on premium and loss experience for policy years 2014, 2015 and 2016. The licensed rating organization authorized to make rate filings on behalf of workers compensation insurance companies in West Virginia also noted that West Virginias claim frequency has generally declined since 2008 and after adjusting to a common wage level, indemnity and medical average cost per case figures have remained relatively consistent for the last five policy years. The rating changes by industry group that will go into effect Nov. 1 are as follows: A statement from West Virginia Governor Jim Justices office said these recent decreases make 14 consecutive workers comp decreases for the state and amount to a cumulative decrease of 75.8 percent and aggregate premium savings of $398 million. West Virginia moved to privatize its workers compensation fund in 2006 and began adding private insurers to compete with its stand-run fund shortly after. McVey said in the statement that in addition to the most recent voluntary market savings, the Old Fund deficit surcharge of 9 percent will terminate as of Jan. 1, 2019. When we started privatization in 2006 West Virginia had an unfunded liability of approximately $3.5 billion in this fund. We now have substantially gotten to the point of seeing the light at the end of the tunnel as claims at the point we started were at approximately 45,000 and as of July 2018 they are at about 11,700 and continue to reduce. This is what is pushing the rate reductions, McVey said. He also noted that safety programs instituted by many employers in the state, with the assistance of carriers, has helped to achieve these results. I feel an investment up front to do this has limited claims along with the fact no one wants to be injured or get sick as the result of a condition in the workplace. Also, the employees who are injured or getting sick are being well taken care of by the carriers and third-party administrators because we are also seeing fewer complaints and protests, McVey said. He pointed to a decline in the number of cases from West Virginia Workers Compensation Office of Judges and Board, which is responsible for handling private carrier or self-insured employer appeals of claims management decisions in workers compensation cases. In 2005, McVey said there were 18,975 protests presented to to the Office of Judges and Board and this year that number had dropped to 1,731 with a current caseload of 2,074. The Workers Compensation Board of Review has only had 301 appeals. Gov. Justice praised the decrease in a statement saying it was great news for West Virginia and our business community. This is the 14th straight decrease weve had since the state moved to privatization in 2006 and it represents not only a $25 million aggregate premium reduction on this line of insurance but also significant savings for state businesses that will allow them to use that money to reinvest in our economy, he said. Topics Trends Workers' Compensation Pricing Trends Virginia Despite Prime Minister Nicol Pashinian's calls, an extraordinary session of the Armenian parliament passed today a set of amendments to the Law on the Regulations of the National Assembly in the second and final reading, which allows lawmakers to insure themselves against a possible dissolution of the parliament. Initially, an amendment to the law concerned only the need for the government representative to be present at meetings of the National Assembly when discussing bills that were approved of by the government. The bill was approved by 67 lawmakers, representing not only the ruling-turned-opposition Republican Party of Armenia, but also the Prosperous Armenia and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF or Dashnaktsutyun), who are members of the incumbent coalition government. Earlier in the day, Pashinyan said he was dismissing all governmental ministers and regional chiefs who are members of the Prosperous Armenia and ARF. The Prosperous Armenia currently has four governmental ministers and two governors in its ranks, and the ARF has two ministers and two governors. The Armenian prime minister also said that he would resign soon to speed up the process of dissolving the current parliament and holding early parliamentary polls, but will remain the acting head of the Armenian government. "Im getting ready to tender my resignation, but I will announce the date later. We need this in order to hold early parliamentary polls. I think that the people will not let a new premier be elected during this period," Pashinyan said. Thousands of supporters of Pashinyan gathered outside the countrys parliament yesterday following the adoption of a bill that complicates the procedure of dissolving the parliament. Pashinyan told his supporters to end their protest and go home. "Please, greet law-enforcement officers and go home. Counter-revolution in Armenia will fail," TASS cited him as saying. Speaking to the rally on Tuesday, Pashinyan promised to sack six ministers in his government from Prosperous Armenia and Dashnaktsutyun and said he would meet lawmakers to discuss the situation. The PM reiterated his pledge to resign in the coming days in order to speed up the dissolution of the parliament. He also said he would soon appoint new ministers instead of those he sacked. He also said he wanted elections to be held in the first half of December, adding that the composition of parliament did not reflect the countrys political reality. Pashinyan told his supporters that after negotiations with the parliamentary leaders of the Republican Party of Armenia, the Tsarukyan bloc and the ARF Dashnaktsutyun he was assured that they will not field candidates for the post of prime minister in case of his resignation. "Representatives of the parliamentary forces said that they understood the message of the people and respect it. They verbally assured me that, regardless of the memorandum, they are not going to nominate a prime ministers candidate," Pashinyan said. Addressing the crowd, the PM noted that this is a completely new phase in Armenia. "We want to change the reality, the past is irreversible," Pashimyam said, urging to refrain from personal insults aimed at any political figures. Armenian President Armen Sarkisyan has spoken on phone with Pashinian and parliament speaker Ara Babloyan to discuss the existing situation. The president urged political forces to remain calm and tolerant towards each other, stressing that the existing situation must be settled in the framework of the Constitution and laws through negotiations and dialogue, the presidential press office said. The deputy chairman of the Armenian National Congress party Aram Manukyan, speaking with the correspondent of Vestnik Kavkaza, noted that Nikol Pashinyan risks nothing, when he gets tough with his former allies, because his influence relies not on agreement with the political forces of Armenia, but on public confidence. "In fact, the ARF and RPA have never been considered as such Yelk's true allies. Pashinyans one true ally is the people. It is very well felt in Yerevan, that the people trust Pashinyan, which makes him the most powerful man in the republic. The people gather in one place within 30 minutes to support him. I am an optimist and I think that he will succeed in doing what the people want, and the parliamentary elections will be held in December," he said. Futures are a popular asset class used to hedge against risk. Strictly speaking, investment risk can never be completely eliminated, though its impact can be mitigated or passed on. Hedging through future agreements between two parties dates to the 1800s. The Chicago Board of Trade standardized futures contracts in 1865 to allow farmers and dealers to trade grain and other soft commodities at future transaction dates throughout the year. Key Takeaways Hedging is a way to reduce risk exposure by taking an offsetting position in a closely related product or security. In the world of commodities, both consumers and producers of them can use futures contracts to hedge. Hedging with futures effectively locks in the price of a commodity today, even if it will actually be bought or sold in physical form in the future. Hedging Commodities Lets look at some basic examples of the futures market, as well as the return prospects and risks. For simplicity's sake, we assume one unit of the commodity, which can be a bushel of corn, a liter of orange juice, or a ton of sugar. Let's look at a farmer who expects one unit of soybean to be ready for sale in six months time. Assume that the current spot price of soybeans is $10 per unit. After considering plantation costs and expected profits, he wants the minimum sale price to be $10.10 per unit, once his crop is ready. The farmer is concerned that oversupply or other uncontrollable factors might lead to price declines in the future, which would leave him with a loss. Here are the parameters: Price protection is expected by the farmer (minimum $10.10). Protection is needed for a specified period of time (six months). Quantity is fixed: the farmer knows that he will produce one unit of soybean during the stated time period. His aim is to hedge (eliminate the risk/loss), not speculate. Futures contracts, by their specifications, fit the above parameters: They can be bought or sold today for fixing a future price. They are for a specified period of time, after which they expire. The quantity of the futures contract is fixed. They offer hedging. Assume a futures contract on one unit of soybean with six months to expiry is available today for $10.10. The farmer can sell this futures contract (short sell) to gain the required protection (locking in the sale price). How This Works: Producer Hedge If the price of soybeans shoots up to say $13 in six months, the farmer will incur a loss of $2.90 (sell price-buy price = $10.10-$13.00) on the futures contract. He will be able to sell his actual crop produce at the market rate of $13, which will lead to a net sale price of $13 - $2.90 = $10.10. If the price of soybeans remains at $10, the farmer will benefit from the futures contract ($10.10 - $10 = $0.10). He will sell his soybeans at $10, leaving his net sale price at $10 + $0.10 = $10.10 If the price declines to $7.50, the farmer will benefit from the futures contract ($10.10 - $7.50 = $2.60). He will sell his crop produce at $7.50, making his net sale price $10.10 ($7.50 + $2.60). In all three cases, the farmer is able to shield his desired sale price by using futures contracts. The actual crop produce is sold at available market rates, but the fluctuation in prices is eliminated by the futures contract. Hedging is not without costs and risks. Assume that in the first above-mentioned case, the price reaches $13, but the farmer did not take a futures contract. He would have benefited by selling at a higher price of $13. Because of futures position, he lost an extra $2.90. On the other hand, the situation could have been worse for him the third case, when he was selling at $7.50. Without futures, he would have suffered a loss. But in all cases, he is able to achieve the desired hedge. How This Works: Consumer Hedge Now assume a soybean oil manufacturer who needs one unit of soybean in six months time. He is worried that soybean prices may shoot up in the near future. He can buy (go long) the same soybean future contract to lock the buy price at his desired level of around $10, say $10.10. If the price of soybean shoots up to say $13, the futures buyer will profit by $2.90 (sell price-buy price = $13 - $10.10) on the futures contract. He will buy the required soybean at the market price of $13, which will lead to a net buy price of -$13 + $2.90 = -$10.10 (negative indicates net outflow for buying). If the price of soybeans remains at $10, the buyer will lose on the futures contract ($10 - $10.10 = -$0.10). He will buy the required soybean at $10, taking his net buy price to -$10 - $0.10 = -$10.10 If the price declines to $7.50, the buyer will lose on the futures contract ($7.50 - $10.10 = -$2.60). He will buy required soybean at the market price of $7.50, taking his net buy price to -$7.50 - $2.60 = -$10.10. In all three cases, the soybean oil manufacturer is able to get his desired buy price, by using a futures contract. Effectively, the actual crop produce is bought at available market rates. The fluctuation in prices is mitigated by the futures contract. Risks Using the same futures contract at the same price, quantity, and expiry, the hedging requirements for both the soybean farmer (producer) and the soybean oil manufacturer (consumer) are met. Both were able to secure their desired price to buy or sell the commodity in the future. The risk did not pass anywhere but was mitigatedone was losing on higher profit potential at the expense of the other. Both parties can mutually agree with this set of defined parameters, leading to a contract to be honored in the future (constituting a forward contract). The futures exchange matches the buyer or seller, enabling price discovery and standardization of contracts while taking away counter-party default risk, which is prominent in mutual forward contracts. Challenges to Hedging While hedging is encouraged, it does come with its own set of unique challenges and considerations. Some of the most common include the following: Margin money is required to be deposited, which may not be readily available. Margin calls may also be required if the price in the futures market moves against you, even if you own the physical commodity. There may be daily mark-to-market requirements. Using futures takes away the higher profit potential in some cases (as cited above). It can lead to different perceptions in cases of large organizations, especially the ones having multiple owners or those listed on stock exchanges. For example, shareholders of a sugar company may be expecting higher profits due to an increase in sugar prices last quarter but may be disappointed when the announced quarterly results indicate that profits were nullified due to hedging positions. Contract size and specifications may not always perfectly fit the required hedging coverage. For example, one contract of Arabica coffee "C" futures covers 37,500 pounds of coffee and may be too large or disproportionate to fit the hedging requirements of a producer/consumer. Small-sized mini-contracts, if available, might be explored in this case. Small-sized mini-contracts, if available, might be explored in this case. Standard available futures contracts might not always match the physical commodity specifications, which could lead to hedging discrepancies. A farmer growing a different variant of coffee may not find a futures contract covering his quality, forcing him to take only available robusta or arabica contracts. At the time of expiry, his actual sale price may be different than the hedge available from the robusta or arabica contracts. If the futures market is not efficient and not well regulated, speculators can dominate and impact the futures prices drastically, leading to price discrepancies at entry and exit (expiration), which undo the hedge. The Bottom Line With new asset classes opening up through local, national, and international exchanges, hedging is now possible for anything and everything. Commodity options are an alternative to futures that can be used for hedging. Care should be taken when assessing hedging securities to ensure they meet your needs. Bear in mind that hedgers should not get enticed by speculative gains. When hedging, careful consideration and focus can achieve the desired results. At various points in history, the price of chocolate has fluctuated, but consumers were largely unaware. Most of us dont notice if the price of our candy bar increases by a few cents since it is often an impulse buy to satisfy an immediate craving. However, supply and demand and how they affect this sweet treat deserve a closer look. Limited Cocoa Supply Means Higher Chocolate Prices The supply of chocolate drivers tends to be the stronger influencer of chocolates price volatility. Many commodities are used to manufacture chocolate, and the key ingredient is cocoa. Others such as sugar, dairy products, nuts, corn sweeteners and energy (natural gas and fuel oil) are also necessary to produce chocolate products. The prices of these commodities are driven, for the most part, by the commodities market, which sets the price based on supply and demand levels and can result in varying levels of volatility on commodity prices. Overall, the greatest price factor is the cost of cocoa. Chocolate makers use two components of cocoa to produce chocolate: cocoa powder and cocoa butter. Cocoa butter is by far the more desirable of the two since it creates the richer chocolates and is used in thin chocolate confectionery treats, but it is also the harder and more expensive to produce so any disruption in cocoa supply will eventually trickle down and drive consumer prices higher. Africa primarily the Ivory Coast and Ghana is the largest global producer of cocoa, supplying just north of 70% of the worlds cocoa. Supply fluctuations are a result of a number of factors, from political and civil unrest to labor issues and the effect of weather, diseases, and pests on crop yields. For example, long periods of dry weather are not conducive to cocoa bean growth, resulting in supply shortages. Other issues like reduced labor can impact the ability of cocoa supplies to make it to the market. For example, Tulane University issued a report in 2015 revealing that over 2 million children were working in the cocoa industry. Movements to reduce the use of this illegal and immoral cheap labor can result in either a lower supply if the labor force is cut or higher cocoa prices because farmers have to pay higher wages to adult laborers. Demand for Chocolate Continues to Increase The global demand for chocolate has risen by double digits since the recession in 2008 and is forecasted to continue to grow, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3% by 2021. A significant portion of this demand increase has to do with the developing taste of global consumers for dark chocolate, particularly in light of its potential positive health benefits. But the demand for dark chocolate has a dual impact: It increases the demand for chocolate products and for cocoa since dark chocolate requires more cocoa beans per ounce than milk chocolate. While North America and Western Europe have always been big consumers of chocolate products, other regions, such as the Asian-Pacific region, are adding to the demand as their interest in chocolate increases. The Bottom Line Cocoa price volatility is not novel, as commodity prices are often fluid. However, the current rise in demand coupled with any disruption to or inadequate supply of cocoa could dramatically impact the price of chocolate. Large chocolate producers will try to hedge the price fluctuations related to commodity prices with forwarding contracts that establish a price they are willing to pay in the future, but in the long run, sustained commodity price increases will result in higher chocolate prices as companies pass along these higher supply costs to chocolate lovers everywhere. The risk of a bank failure from a major cyberattack is not far-fetched. Almost all financial institutions have experienced a cyberattack in one form or another, and the number of attacks is only increasing. Financial firms are 300 times more likely than other institutions to experience them, according to the Boston Consulting Group. The increasing risk of cyberattacks and the potential impact on banks is a top concern for financial institutions and the government. Here is a look at how and why banks are at risk and what the effect of a cyberattack might be. Key Takeaways The risk of major cyberattacks on banks is on the rise. Due to the interconnectivity of banks, the spillover of cyberattacks on other banks is great and could impact the solvency of a financial institution. U.S. banks are particularly susceptible to state-sponsored cyberattacks. There has been a spike in cyberattacks during the 2020 crisis. The Rising Risk of Cyberattacks Fears of a major cyberattack on banks have been rising since hackers successfully stole nearly $100 million from Bangladeshs central bank in February 2016. Shortly afterwards, Russian central bank officials disclosed that hackers stole more than $31 million (two billion rubles at the time) from the countrys central bank and commercial banks. In testimony before the House Financial Services Committee in February 2020, when asked what he perceives as the greatest risk to the financial system, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said cybersecurity. The thing that we worry about a lot is cyberattacks. I think we have a great game plan for traditional issues like bad loans and things like that. Its more cyberattacks is really the frontier where you worry," Powell said. Many banks already see millions of attempted attacks each year, resulting in modest losses, but hackers are rapidly becoming more sophisticated, making banks even more vulnerable to major attacks. How Banks Are at Risk In a report published in January 2020, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York claims that because of the interconnectivity of banks, the spillover effect of cyberattacks is great. The report maintains that a cyberattack on any of the five most active U.S. banks could affect 38% of the network. The report also found that cyberattacks on six small banks with less than $10 billion in assets could threaten the solvency of one of the top five U.S. banks. Experts also warn that U.S. banks are particularly susceptible to state-sponsored cyberattacks coming from countries including Russia, China, and North Korea. "State-sponsored hacking is the biggest threat to our financial sector because of the capacities that they can bring to bear, Jamil Jaffer, founder and executive director of George Mason Universitys National Security Institute, told the House Financial Services subcommittee on national security, international development, and monetary policy during a hearing in June 2020. During the same hearing Tom Kellermann, a member of a cybersecurity commission during the Obama administration who is now head of cybersecurity strategy at software company VMWare, warned of a major rise in cyberattacks on banks and other financial institutions during the 2020 crisis. 238% The spike in cyberattacks against banks between February and April of 2020, according to a report by VMWare. Impact of Cyberattacks on Bank Customers Consumers have relatively little to lose from cyberattacks on banks, provided they havent been lax about safeguarding their information and they quickly notify the bank if funds are missing. U.S. federal law requires banks to refund customers if someone takes money from their account without authorization and they notify the bank within 60 days of the transactions appearing on their bank statement. Business accounts, however, have fewer protections and could be subject to greater losses. Banks themselves have fewer assurances from the federal government that they would remain solvent if a major cyberattack were executed. These attacks could target bank processing systems and disrupt critical financial transactions needed to avoid margin calls, for example, triggering a default. The Bottom Line Cybersecurity is a top concern for the banking sector. Consumers may be able to recover their money under federal law, but some experts are concerned that the escalating attacks could render a major bank insolvent if successful, or at least create a panic that leads to a run on a bank. When you're selling or refinancing your home, it probably will be appraised to determine its current market value. The appraiser will look at factors such as square footage, materials, amenities, and condition, and evaluate these factors against comparable properties, or comps, that have recently sold in the area. The appraisal process is meant to be objective, but appraisers are human. Good curb appeal and clean, uncluttered rooms send a message of a well-maintained home. And they can be achieved without a great deal of time or expense. Key Takeaways Clean and uncluttered rooms convey the message that a home is well-maintained. Minor cosmetic improvements can make a big difference. Avoid big expensive improvements. They don't pay off. Spruce It up Make sure your home looks its best when the appraiser arrives. You can take your cues from professional home stagers who prepare properties to show to buyers. De-clutter, make minor repairs, and touch up the paint if necessary, suggests Marie Graham, who runs a staging business called The Refreshed Home in Westchester County, N.Y. Youll need to do these tasks anyway if youre putting your home on the market, so you might as well get started. Even if youre refinancing, you won't want your dirty dishes or messy desk immortalized in the appraisers photo archives. Tidy Up the Yard The appraiser is probably taking notes before even knocking on your door. Unless your yard is a total disaster, investing in elaborate landscaping is usually a waste of money. But a minor clean-up is worth a weekend or two. M. Lance Coyle, a Dallas-based appraiser and former president of the Appraisal Institute, suggests removing any dead trees or bushes that detract from your homes appearance. Graham says she often advises staging clients to make simple cosmetic fixes such as repairing walkways, sealing driveways, and putting numbers on mailboxes. Point out Major Improvements If you recently replaced the roof or installed a new patio, mention it to the appraiser, Coyle says. But dont make major improvements now in hopes of increasing your homes appraisal or resale value. Few such projects ever recoup 100% of their cost. For example, a major kitchen renovation costs close to $68,000 on average but returns only about 59% of that, or roughly $40,000, according to Remodeling Magazines "2020 Cost vs. Value Report." How to Interact with the Appraiser Offer to answer any questions the appraiser may have, but resist the urge to follow them from room to room. If you know of similar homes in the neighborhood that have recently sold, dont hesitate to call them to the appraisers attention, Coyle says. The appraiser may not be as familiar with the area as you are and could miss a comp that would work to your benefit. Look for credentials such as MAI or SRA, both of which are conferred based on an appraisers education and experience. If the appraisal comes in lower than you hoped, you can gauge whether it was due to your unrealistic expectations or possible appraiser inexperience or incompetence. Know Your Rights If you hire the appraiser to determine your homes value, the appraisal belongs to you. If youre refinancing your mortgage and the lender hires the appraiser, the lender is required to provide you with a copypossibly for a reasonable feeof the appraisal and any other home value estimates. Review the written appraisal for errors. Check whether the comps the appraiser chose are reasonably similar to your home. If necessary, you can appeal the appraisal with your lender or ask it to order a second appraisal. The Walmart MoneyCard is a debit card that requires no bank account or credit check and so avoids overdraft fees. Available in either Visa or MasterCard versions, the card can be used not only at Walmart but at any retailer that accepts Visa or MasterCard. Key Takeaways Walmart's low-cost pre-paid debit card, the MoneyCard, requires no existing bank account and can be funded via direct deposit. In addition to direct deposit, the MoneyCard can be loaded at store registers, at Walmart Money centers, or with your IRS tax refund, among others. There are fees tied to MoneyCard, including a monthly service fee (which can be waived). Loading the Walmart MoneyCard Money can be added to Walmart MoneyCard's via direct deposits, Walmart store reloads, online transfers, or tax return deposits. 1. Direct Deposit Payroll checks or your government benefits can be loaded directly onto a MoneyCard through direct deposit. This service is free and you can opt to deposit all or part of your check. Employers may notify the bank of direct deposits up to two days before the official "payday," and Walmart will then transfer funds to the card early. 2. Walmart Reload This option allows you to add money to your card at Walmart locations, which can cost up to $5.95. Cash deposits are free using the Walmart MoneyCard app at Walmart stores. For these deposits you can deposit cash by touching the Deposit tab in the Walmart MoneyCard app and selecting Deposit Cash using the Walmart MoneyCard App." 3. Online Transfer An online transfer typically takes one to three business days and there is no reloading fee. However, your bank may charge fees on the electronic transfer. 4. Tax Refunds If you electronically file your income taxes, you can opt to directly deposit your refund onto your Walmart MoneyCard; no reloading fee applies. You send your card number and mobile phone number to Walmart, which then texts you the direct-deposit information you enter into your tax forms. The standard IRS processing time applies, although e-filing typically allows you to receive a refund more rapidly than filing by mail. Benefits The MoneyCard offers many of the benefits found on all Visa and MasterCard debit cards, including fraud protection. Free online bill paying service is also included. You can send money orders, get paper checks, or set recurring monthly payments for bills such as for your auto insurance. These cards also allow you to send funds to friends or family anywhere in the U.S. You can also earn cash-back rewards by shopping at Walmart.com and via the Walmart app (3% cash back), Walmart fuel stations (2%), and Walmart retail stores (1%). The limit for cash-back rewards is $75 a year. Fees MoneyCards cost between $1.00 to buy. The card has a $5.94 monthly service fee, which is waived if you loaded $1,000 or more onto the card in the previous month. ATM and teller cash withdrawals cost $2.50, while withdrawals at Walmart stores are free. Meanwhile, cash reload cost $3.00 at Walmart stores and up to $5.95 for other reload locations. Other fees include a 3% foreign transaction fee and $0.50 for balance inquiries at ATMs. There's also a $5.95 charge for a 12-pack of checks, $3.00 for card replacement (or $15 for expedited delivery). The Bottom Line The Walmart MoneyCard comes with a number of free services and other benefits, especially for frequent Walmart shoppers. It also offers a convenient number of ways to load money onto the card. However, other prepaid debit cards and mobile banking options offer lower fees, larger networks of ATMs, and more free services. Research your options before you make a final choice. Ride-sharing and ride-hailing services are becoming increasingly popular among commuters. And their popularity is poised to rise even more. In fact, the number of ride-sharing users is estimated to grow at a compounded annual growth rate of 16.6% by 2026. Some of the biggest names in this industry include Uber and Lyft. But there is a growing list of names that are trying to gain a foothold in the global market, including China's DiDi Chuxing. This article looks at a brief history of the company including its financial backers, key mergers, management, as well as its financial prospects for the future. Key Takeaways DiDi Chuxing is a mobile transportation company headquartered in Beijing. The company was founded in 2012 and has 13,000 corporate employees. DiDi operates across Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America, Central Asia, and Russia. It acquired a series of rivals in China, including Kuaidi Dache and Uber China. DiDi went public in June 2021 on the NYSE. DiDi Chuxing: An Overview DiDi Chuxing is a mobile transportation company headquartered in Beijing. Known simply as DiDi, it is now one of the world's largest ride-hailing companies, serving more than 493 million users across Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America, Central Asia, and Russia. DiDi was founded in 2012. Founder Cheng Wei, who named the company DiDi Dache, intended it to be a smartphone app for people who wanted to immediately hail cabs. Since then, it expanded to offer a broad range of services for travelers beyond taxis, including private cars, car rentals, buses, and chauffeurs, as well as delivery services, and bike-sharing. The company uses new technologies such as artificial intelligence to more efficiently deploy its resources. Since its creation, the company has raised more than $23.2 billion in 26 rounds of funding as of April 2021. The company has also made strategic investments in other global companies such as Lyft, Bolt, and Grab. DiDi Chuxing has almost 13,000 corporate employees around the world and dominates the Chinese ride-sharing market. $39.74 billion DiDi's market capitalization as of Oct. 20, 2021. DiDi's Management Ranks The management team behind Didi's success boasts alums from Goldman Sachs, Alibaba, and other major enterprises. Will Wei Cheng is DiDi's founder and chief executive officer (CEO) and has extensive technology experience. After graduating from Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Wei held several jobs before joining the Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba. Over eight years, he worked his way up to become vice president for Alibaba's online payment service, Alipay. Jean Qing Liu is the company's director and president. She joined the company in 2014 and has played a key role in DiDi's rapid growth. She has an undergraduate degree in computer science from Peking University and a master's degree in computer science from Harvard. Before joining DiDi, she worked for Goldman Sachs for more than a decade and became managing director in Asia for the investment bank. DiDi Was Built on Mergers DiDi has undergone a series of key mergers and acquisitions (M&A) since 2012most notably with key rivals who vied for market share in China. According to Crunchbase, DiDi has made five acquisitions as of January 2018. Reuters reported that DiDi was locked in a price war with rival Kuaidi Dache, resulting in major losses for both companies. While DiDi claimed about 55% of the Chinese market, Kuaidi controlled much of the remaining 45%. The 2015 merger resulted in one of the largest ride-sharing apps, with the newly-formed combined company valued at about $6 billion at the time. DiDi also competed aggressively against international companies that tried to corner the Chinese market including Uber China. After Uber lost an estimated $2 billion in a market share battle, it brokered a truce with DiDi. Uber China sold its business to Didi and became a minority investor. DiDi, in turn, invested $1 billion in Uber as part of the deal. DiDi has also made key investments in other companies, including $100 million in Lyft, Uber's major rival, forming a partnership to share technologies and marketing expertise. DiDi Goes Public DiDi went public in an initial public offering (IPO) on June 30, 2021, when shares began trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol DIDI. The company sold 316.8 million American Depositary Shares (ADS), raising a total of $4.4 billion or $14 per share. The offering was larger than expected because the IPO was oversubscribedDiDi originally intended to sell 288 million sharesmaking it the largest listing by a Chinese company in the United States since Alibaba went public in 2014. DiDi operates three different business segments: China Mobility, International, and Other Initiatives. Financial Performance Since DiDi went public in June 2021, it has yet to file a financial report. That means investors won't be able to gauge how well the company is performing until its track record is established. And it may be difficult for investors to get a picture of its success from its past performance. Because it was a private company, numbers are scarce about its financial performance. But some reports show that the company is struggling. Many of the losses come from driver payments and subsidizing trips. Such losses were not enough to curtail the atmospheric growth of the ride-hailing group. Chinese news outlets reported losses of about $1.6 billion in 2018. And that trend goes back to its earlier days. And prior to the merger that ultimately became DiDi Chuxing, both DiDi and Kuaidi companies posted combined operating losses of $571 million in the first five months of 2015. DiDis Main Investors DiDi has raised a significant amount of capital to expand through 26 rounds of financing. The company has a total of 48 investors, 14 of which are considered lead investors. The latest was a debt financing round on April 9, 2021, which consisted of six investors. These names included: Morgan Stanley JPMorgan Chase HSBC Goldman Sachs Citi Barclays Together, these names invested a total of $1.5 billion in DiDi. DiDi also raised $500 million from SoftBank and another company called For Good Ventures in a venture round of financing in May 2020. Toyota invested $600 million in July 2019 in a corporate round of financing. Santa Monica, CA - October 3, 2018 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Gopher Protocol Inc. (OTCQB: GOPH) ("Gopher"), a company specializing in the creation of Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence enabled mobile technologies, including a global platform with both mobile and fixed solutions, announced today it has been invited by Tokenize-It, S.A. ("Tokenize-It") as VIP guests to the San Francisco Blockchain Week Conference, which Tokenize-It is among its sponsors. San Francisco Blockchain Week - https://sfblockchainweek.io/ is a week of educational, consumer, and developer focused events that aim to push the boundaries of local Blockchain innovation, which has been welcomed by the San Francisco community. The goal of this week-long, immersive experience is to help the industry reach mainstream adoption through fundamental education and development of projects that matter. A networking app will be provided to notify new events and venues, schedule meetings, receive giveaways based on location and build attendees' preferred agenda in advance. Tokenize-It - http://tokenizeit.cr is a software developer and technology company which owns a portfolio of Blockchain technologies focused on providing technology and services to third parties for the purchase of converting income producing assets and cash flow streams into tokens that can be traded as well as the tokenization of financial sovereign instruments. These Blockchain utility tokens are not dependent on a single Blockchain technology; they can be created on multiple Blockchains. Tokenize-It, Gopher, Gopher Costa Rica, SRL (a partially owned subsidiary of Gopher) and GBT Technologies, S.A. ("GBT") previously entered into a Letter of Intent in June 2018, which is presently still under negotiation ( https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1471781/000161577418005183/s110797_8k.htm ). In September 2018, GBT, which is affiliated with Tokenize-IT, and Gopher entered into an Exclusive Intellectual Property and Royalty Agreement whereby Gopher granted an exclusive license to GBT for intellectual property relating to systems and methods of converting electronic transmissions into digital currency (https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1471781/000161577418009635/s112747_8k.htm). The parties intend to present the potential structure and uses of Gopher technology for the Digital Currency Technology. GBT's CEO and founder Pablo Gonzalez, who will be among the speakers of the conference, stated, "The intent of GBT is to enhance the technology and reach of Gopher's technology which it holds a license to further into the financial services arena. If Gopher is successful in creating its own communication network, it is a logical progression for these networks to also carry financial transactions, in both crypto currency, and fiat currency. GBT is a fully compliant and regulated exchange platform that currently operates as a decentralized digital platform, which is explained by GBT in the following link - https://youtu.be/V6_WOu016f0. GBT intends to incorporate the Digital Currency Technology into its products." About Gopher Protocol Inc. (http://gopherprotocol.com) Gopher Protocol Inc. (GOPH) ("Gopher") (http://gopherprotocol.com/) is a development-stage company which consider itself Native IoT creator, developing Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence enabled mobile technology. Gopher has a portfolio of Intellectual Property that when commercialized will include smart microchips, mobile application software and supporting cloud software. The system contemplates the creation of a global network. The core of the system will be its advanced microchip technology that can be installed in any mobile device worldwide. Gopher envisions this system as an internal, private network between all enabled mobile devices providing shared processing, advanced mobile database management/sharing and enhanced mobile features. Corporate Site: http://gopherprotocol.com Press page/ press kit - http://gopherprotocol.com/?page_id=228 Consumer and product website for Guardian Patch: http://www.guardianpatch.com/. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release may constitute "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements provide current expectations of future events based on certain assumptions and include any statement that does not directly relate to any historical or current fact. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors as disclosed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission located at their website (http://www.sec.gov). In addition to these factors, actual future performance, outcomes, and results may differ materially because of more general factors including (without limitation) general industry and market conditions and growth rates, economic conditions, governmental and public policy changes, the Companys ability to raise capital on acceptable terms, if at all, the Companys successful development of its products and the integration into its existing products and the commercial acceptance of the Companys products. The forward-looking statements included in this press release represent the Company's views as of the date of this press release and these views could change. However, while the Company may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company's views as of any date subsequent to the date of the press release. Contact: Dr. Danny Rittman CTO Gopher Protocol Inc. Media: press@gopherprotocol.com SOURCE: Gopher Protocol Inc. Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investment involves risk and possible loss of investment. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Contact each company directly regarding content and press release questions. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Disclosure: GOPH is a PR, social media and publishing client and compensates Investorideas.com: More disclaimer and disclosure info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp, https://www.investorideas.com/About/News/Clientspecifics.asp Additional info regarding BC Residents and global Investors: Effective September 15 2008 - all BC investors should review all OTC and Pink sheet listed companies for adherence in new disclosure filings and filing appropriate documents with Sedar. Read for more info: https://www.bcsc.bc.ca/release.aspx?id=6894. Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp VANCOUVER - October 3, 2018 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Ascent Industries Corp. (CSE: ASNT) ("Ascent" or the "Company") would like to provide a further update regarding the partial suspension of the Health Canada licenses issued to its wholly owned subsidiary, Agrima Botanicals Corp. ("Agrima"), on September 26, 2018. On October 2nd, the Company received written approval from Health Canada regarding activities permitted while Agrima's Health Canada licenses are partially suspended. In specific, Health Canada has authorized the following activities in connection with Agrima's cannabis plants: cultivation, trimming, curing, sanitation, harvesting and maintenance of cannabis. Taken together, these permitted activities allow Agrima to maintain the quality of its cannabis plants during the period that Agrima is determining the process and timeline for full reinstatement of its licenses. The Company will continue to provide shareholders with timely updates as things progress. About Ascent Industries Corp. In Canada, Ascent (through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Agrima Botanicals) is a Licenced Producer under the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations of Health Canada, with licences to cultivate cannabis and produce cannabis extracts. In addition, the Company is a Licenced Dealer under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (Canada), with the ability to produce, package, sell, send, transport and distribute medically focused cannabis products in Canada to other licenced entities and internationally in jurisdictions where medical cannabis is legal. In the United States, the Company holds licences in Oregon (for processing and for distribution of cannabis to any licenced entity in the state) and in Nevada (for cultivation and for production, processing and wholesale distribution of cannabis). In Europe, Agrima ApS, a Danish company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Ascent, has submitted licence applications for a Wholesaler Dealers Licence and Controlled Drug Licence in Denmark, and applications for the approval of eight products to the Danish Medical Cannabis Pilot Program. The Company's operations currently include licenced facilities in British Columbia, Canada, and in Oregon and Nevada in the United States. The Company is increasing its cultivation and production capacity from 50,000 square feet to 710,000 square feet in 2018, from which it expects to produce significantly higher amounts of cannabis and cannabis oil to support its expanding operations. The Company offers a product suite of more than 40 unique products under several consumer-focused brands, including gel capsules, tinctures, medicinal oils, concentrates, vaporizer pens, pre-rolled joints, various edibles and raw flower. Through careful development of its sophisticated cannabis brands, Ascent is positioned to be a leader in branded, commercialized products in both medical and adult-use markets across North America and internationally. In addition, the Company conducts cannabis-based research with Simon Fraser University, including in the area of unique cannabinoid formulations that produce targeted physiological outcomes. The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. NEITHER THE CSE OR ITS MARKET REGULATOR (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE CSE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements relate, among other things, to: Ascent's expectations concerning its Health Canada licences. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. Except as required by law, Ascent assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law. SOURCE: Ascent Industries For further information: Philip Campbell, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Telephone: 1.604.908.1305, Email: ir@ascentindustries.com Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions. More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ and tickertagstocknews.com Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp The Prosperous Armenia party has no particular arrangements with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan not to nominate its own candidate for the prime-ministerial position, vice-speaker of the parliament and the Prosperous Armenia party member, Mikael Melkumyan, said. "We have no final decision. We just heard the governments information. Arguments and counterarguments were presented. The government remained of the same opinion, and the party has n arrangement to refrain from nominating its candidate," ARKA cited Melkumyan as saying, According to him, the early elections should be conducted in May-June 2019. Yesterday, after three parties lawmakers in a bid to retain their seats in the National Assembly passed a bill hobbling dismissal of the parliament, Pashinyan called on people to come to the area outside the parliament building. Later, Pashinyan talked to representatives of parliamentary factions to find a way out of the political deadlock. According to him, a verbal arrangement was made with them not to nominate their candidates for the prime-ministerial position, the parliament will be dismissed and early elections will be conducted in the first half of December. October 3, 2018 (Investorideas.com Newswire) CIBC raised its target price on this Canadian company and provided an update on its anticipated mine. In a Sept. 19 research note, CIBC analyst Bryce Adams reported that Lundin Gold Inc. (LUG:TSX) updated its forecasted economics on Fruta del Norte in southeast Ecuador, and remains on track and on budget with construction there. CIBC revised its model to reflect the changes and, consequently, raised its target price on Lundin to CA$6 per share from CA$5.50. The mining company's stock is currently trading at CA$4.91 per share. "At spot prices, Lundin Gold now trades in line with its developer peers at 0.9x price:net present value 5% (NPV5%)," Adams noted. As for the adjusted project economics, Lundin's new NPV5% for Fruta del Norte is $786 million. This 10% increase is driven by the company's use of primary and secondary stopes rather than end slicing stoping. The approach allows for greater operating flexibility and a lower backfill expense. Regarding projected costs, Lundin has reduced them in light of optimized mining methods and reduction in estimated use of reagents. Operating costs dropped 7% to $537 per ounce, and all-in sustaining cost (AISC) dropped 4% to $583 per ounce. "Lower costs have lowered the cutoff grade and increased the mineable resource slightly," Adams explained. With respect to construction at Fruta del Norte, it is more than a quarter done. "Both declines have crossed the Machinaza Fault with no significant water inflows," wrote Adams. Completed underground development stands at about 2.9 kilometers. Concrete work at the processing plant is about 30% finished. Because continued construction progress will be Lundin's main priority for the next 12 to 18 months, CIBC maintains its Neutral rating on the company. "Longer term, we view Fruta del Norte as a highly attractive project, as one of the highest-grade, undeveloped gold projects globally," Adams concluded. Disclosure: 1) Doresa Banning compiled this article for Streetwise Reports LLC and provides services to Streetwise reports as an independent contractor. She or members of her household own securities of the following companies mentioned in the article: None. She or members of her household are paid by the following companies mentioned in this article: None. 2) The following companies mentioned in this article are billboard sponsors of Streetwise Reports: None. Click here for important disclosures about sponsor fees. 3) Comments and opinions expressed are those of the specific experts and not of Streetwise Reports or its officers. The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security. 4) The article does not constitute investment advice. Each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her individual financial professional and any action a reader takes as a result of information presented here is his or her own responsibility. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Streetwise Reports' terms of use and full legal disclaimer. This article is not a solicitation for investment. Streetwise Reports does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on Streetwise Reports should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Streetwise Reports does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company mentioned on Streetwise Reports. 5) From time to time, Streetwise Reports LLC and its directors, officers, employees or members of their families, as well as persons interviewed for articles and interviews on the site, may have a long or short position in securities mentioned. Directors, officers, employees or members of their immediate families are prohibited from making purchases and/or sales of those securities in the open market or otherwise from the time of the interview or the decision to write an article, until one week after the publication of the interview or article. Disclosures from CIBC, Lundin Gold Inc., September 19, 2018 Analyst Certification: Each CIBC World Markets Corp./Inc. research analyst named on the front page of this research report, or at the beginning of any subsection hereof, hereby certifies that (i) the recommendations and opinions expressed herein accurately reflect such research analyst's personal views about the company and securities that are the subject of this report and all other companies and securities mentioned in this report that are covered by such research analyst and (ii) no part of the research analyst's compensation was, is, or will be, directly or indirectly, related to the specific recommendations or views expressed by such research analyst in this report. Analysts employed outside the U.S. are not registered as research analysts with FINRA. These analysts may not be associated persons of CIBC World Markets Corp. and therefore may not be subject to FINRA Rule 2241 restrictions on communications with a subject company, public appearances and trading securities held by a research analyst account. Potential Conflicts of Interest: Equity research analysts employed by CIBC World Markets Corp./Inc. are compensated from revenues generated by various CIBC World Markets Corp./Inc. businesses, including the CIBC World Markets Investment Banking Department. Research analysts do not receive compensation based upon revenues from specific investment banking transactions. CIBC World Markets Corp./Inc. generally prohibits any research analyst and any member of his or her household from executing trades in the securities of a company that such research analyst covers. Additionally, CIBC World Markets Corp./Inc. generally prohibits any research analyst from serving as an officer, director or advisory board member of a company that such analyst covers. In addition to 1% ownership positions in covered companies that are required to be specifically disclosed in this report, CIBC World Markets Corp./Inc. may have a long position of less than 1% or a short position or deal as principal in the securities discussed herein, related securities or in options, futures or other derivative instruments based thereon. Recipients of this report are advised that any or all of the foregoing arrangements, as well as more specific disclosures set forth below, may at times give rise to potential conflicts of interest. Important Disclosure Footnotes for Lundin Gold Inc. (LUG) CIBC World Markets Inc. expects to receive or intends to seek compensation for investment banking services from Lundin Gold Inc. in the next 3 months. More Info: This news is published on the Investorideas.com Newswire - a global digital news source for investors and business leaders Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions. More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ and tickertagstocknews.com Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp The Web Summit is to stay in Lisbon until 2028, in a new 110m deal. It comes after a competitive tender process involving offers from more than 20 European cities including Berlin, Paris, London and Madrid. Total radar failure at Shannon Air Traffic Control (ATC) centre last night forced the closure of Irish airspace to overflights, the rerouting and grounding of dozens of flights, and the deployment of an Emergency Air Situation Display System (EASDS) in an effort to maintain safety in the skies. The EASDS is a system used to clear the skies. The radar collapse affected a state-of-the-art system staff were told could never fail. It meant air traffic controllers in Shannon were forced to introduce a zero flow rate, which means no aircraft were allowed enter Irish airspace for a number of hours while frantic efforts got underway to organise re-routing of hundreds of aircraft due to fly through Irish airspace en route from the US to Europe. Assistance was sought from neighbouring ATC centres in London, Brest, Scottish control, and Shanwick, which is responsible for oceanic clearances. One source in ATC told the Irish Examiner staff at Shannon had been repeatedly told that the system could never fail. We were told this could never happen, the source said. UPDATE @Ryanair #FR3326 will be the first plane to land in Shannon after radar system issue https://t.co/EF5e2dSD2H pic.twitter.com/AWJQltsa31 AIRLIVE (@airlivenet) October 2, 2018 Another source raised concerns about staff familiarity with the EASDS and the lack of simulation exercises that take place in relation to such a catastrophic radar failure. It is understood that the ATC training school at Shannon Airport does not have the facilities to conduct such a simulation. The EASDS is an independent emergency backup system, that provides correlated aircraft positional data to the Dublin and Shannon Area Control Centres (ACC). Cork Airport last night advised passenger that a radar problem in the west of Ireland which covers airspace including Cork Airport is impacting all flights coming from the west and south of Ireland. Anything already in the airspace was already processed through or has landed but nothing else is allowed to enter this airspace at present, the tweet read. Passengers were advised to check the status of flights with airlines as many aircraft and crews are out of position tonight which may impact on flight ops in the morning. Flights have resumed @CorkAirport following activation of a back up system by the IAA. The last scheduled departure to London Stansted with @Ryanair has taken off and further arrivals are due presently. Most flights are now expected to operate to schedule on Wednesday morning. pic.twitter.com/ff2Zh4L97P Cork Airport (@CorkAirport) October 2, 2018 Eurocontrol, the European Organisation for the Safety of Air Navigation, had a map on its network operations portal showing a major radar outage over Irish airspace and advising that there was a zero flow rate due to radar failure at Shannon. One source said controllers were notified around 7.30pm. Shannon centre management were summonsed to the centre and additional air traffic controllers were called in. We were lucky with the time it happened, one source said. If it had happened during the day, it would have been a disaster, but its reasonably quiet at night. The IAA issued a statement saying it was aware of a technical issue in Shannon ATC. The issue is currently being investigated. As a precaution the flow of traffic has been restricted. We will provide an update shortly. It is understood that efforts were underway last night to increase the flow rate to 30%, using the EASDS and flight strips which record the aircrafts flight path manually. Dublin Airport continued to function due to proximity to UK ATC. A source said aircraft that had already filed flight plans would have been stored in the system and that the plan could be correlated with a radar signal to identify it, but if a flight plan had not been filed, the signal could not be interpreted. Previously the IAA has spoken about its make considerable investment in its ATM system. Details matter. When your stock and trade is communications and you can charge 450 an hour, details are very important. When you are putting yourself up to contest the office of President of Ireland, they matter even more. When you are said candidate and you are addressing the media at the formal launch of your campaign, they matter a lot. Especially when you are addressing questions as to why you want to be President. Yesterday, having arrived 17 minutes late, Gavin Duffy he of Dragons Den fame made an unforgivable error. Toward the end of his lengthy and sometimes testy press conference, Duffy was asked about why he wanted to be President. He spoke of being ambitious for Ireland and wanting to make it a better country than it was when he grew up. Presidential candidate Gavin Duffy has told his campaign launch the country would be best served if the next president is familiar with trade and tariff issues given the importance of Brexit pic.twitter.com/zJHKc6aDE6 RTE News (@rtenews) October 2, 2018 If you were born in 1960 as I was, and you lived through the 1980s, you just have to cast back to all the stuff that happened in the 1980s, the Kerry babies, Joanne Lovett, etc, and all of those issues and you see where Ireland is at now, he said. Ann Rose Lovett, and not Joanne Lovett, as he said, was the 15-year-old schoolgirl who died giving birth to a stillborn baby boy beside a grotto of the Virgin Mary at a church in Granard, Co Longford, on January 31, 1984. Her case and the tragic circumstances have stained this country and highlighted its at times disgraceful attitude toward women. Duffy, perhaps, in error, said Joanne in reference to Joanne Hayes, who became a central figure in the Kerry Babies controversy. Now, an understandable error, maybe, but a critical one. Particularly when Duffy himself only raised those two tragedies. But, it did raise the question as to his grasp of detail. Another detail he was not willing to go into was the advice he gave businessman Denis OBrien when he was working with him on his response to the 2011 Moriarty Tribunal, which was savage in its criticism of Mr OBrien. Duffy said he had done 40 hours of work for OBrien in 20 years and had billed him for a total of 18,000. When pressed repeatedly, he refused to disclose the nature of the advice, citing grounds of confidentiality. Another detail he has had to clarify was how much he would spend on his campaign and how he would fund it. Back during the summer, he stated first that he had secured a loan on his family home for the amount of 750,000. Then it emerged that the loan, which was coming from a business bank, was not in fact a loan on the family home but on other properties on his land which are related to his businesses. Yesterday, he then said that he now intends to spend 300,000 on his campaign and this, he said, is coming not from a loan but from his savings. He proclaimed with pride that he, over a long career, has had no issue with tax, with bad debts, or with any legal action. I am saying here you will not find anything in my track record, he said. I know in my business there never has been a tax issue, a bad debt issue, I have never been involved in litigation. Its not to say there have not been difficulties, I just dont see litigation as a [route to take]. The longest-serving councillor in Cork City has called for an emergency meeting after a European Court ruling delayed a key part of the citys flood defences. Fianna Fail Cllr Tim Brosnan branded Cork City Councils official explanation for the delay a farce last night, following confirmation that a new environmental report is needed for the contentious 6m Morrisons Island public realm and flood defence project, and that a new planning process through Bord Pleanala is also required. The council blamed a European Court ruling on the potential impact of such works on protected habitats. It must now abandon the schemes Part 8 planning approval, signed off in April, to prepare a new environmental report, and must now embark on a Part 10 planning process through An Bord Pleanala. It could be six months before a decision is made. Mr Brosnan blasted city officials and accused them of hijacking democracy with their attempt to run this through Bord Pleanala. The Lord Mayor must call an emergency meeting of councillors who must be fully briefed and who in turn following the briefing will decide how to proceed, he said. The State has messed up in not properly assessing whether or not the European Court case would have retrospective effect. I want accountability in terms of costs and personally I want to see the matter considered locally instead of a managed process in Bord Pleanala offices in Dublin. But Lord Mayor Cllr Mick Finn said the court ruling changes the planning avenue for the project and little else. The councils deputy chief executive, Ruth Buckley, said officials are still committed to the public realm and flood defence project. City Hall defended the original Part 8 and insisted that when it was signed off in April, it was in full compliance with planning laws. It said the European Court ruling which came a month later arising out of an Irish wind-farm case and linked to technical reports on the possible impact on protected habitats could not have been foreseen. The council said its Appropriate Assessment (AA) analysis and screening for the scheme in March indicated a minimal risk of harmful effects on sensitive habitats several kilometres downstream. As a result, a Nature Impact Statement (NIS) was not considered necessary and mitigation measures to offset these minimal impacts were included in the scheme design. But the European Courts declaratory judgement a month later on the wind-farm case stated that if there is even a potential impact on protected habitats, no matter how small or insignificant, then an NIS must be carried out. Because the ruling was a declaratory judgement clarifying a point of law, it is retrospective and must be applied to existing and future decisions involving AA screenings. The council said the data for an NIS has already been gathered as part of its AA report but will take time, and some extra money to prepare. But a spokesman insisted there are no plans to change the design of the scheme which attracted some 1,500 submissions during public consultation earlier this year, and which was the subject of a judicial review. Campaign group, Save Cork City, which sought a judicial review of the Part 8, welcomed the news which was outlined to the High Court yesterday. Wednesday 3rd Oct at 6:30pm @corkcitycouncil An opportunity to speak about #CORK and why we love it Ask about the WALLs scheme & GET some answers!!! Have your say about the destruction proposed and why it's supported by Cork City Council#LOVEtheLEE #SaveCorkCity Please RT pic.twitter.com/u5ubPBB56l Save Cork City (@savecorkcity) October 1, 2018 Spokesman John Hegarty said the council has taken the right decision and should now engage with the public on the designs again. Rather than spending time and money in court we believe the council should sit down with us and other members of the community to agree a scheme that protects Cork and its heritage, he said. Save Cork City has put forward visionary alternatives which will protect Cork from rising water levels and enhance the relationship between the city and the river without the need for flood walls. We will be writing to the chief executive seeking an early meeting to discuss the path forward. The Morrisons Island area is one of the citys most flood-prone zones. Officials say the public realm scheme will protect against 70%-80% of the tidal flooding that affects the city centre island area. The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) says there is nothing to suggest cybercrime was to blame for most of Ireland's airspace being closed last night. In an update this afternoon the IAA says technical experts are still trying to isolate the root cause of the issue, and the investigation could take some time. Air traffic control in Shannon and Cork failed yesterday evening causing a number of flights to be diverted. The backup system was deployed, and it is still running operations. The IAA says the technical issue was not a radar problem and most likely a simple software issue. No flights have been impacted today. Andrew Murphy, Managing director of Shannon Airport said it was fortunate the problem did not happen earlier in the day. "Had it happened at a different time during the day no doubt it would have been a different level of disruption," said Mr Murphy. But that wasn't the case and I think they got the back-up system online relatively quickly and that allowed them to minimise the disruption to passengers and that from our perspective is was a very positive thing. Last night, total radar failure at Shannon Air Traffic Control (ATC) centre forced the closure of Irish airspace to overflights, the rerouting and grounding of dozens of flights, and the deployment of an Emergency Air Situation Display System (EASDS) in an effort to maintain safety in the skies. The radar collapse affected a state-of-the-art system staff were told could never fail. It meant air traffic controllers in Shannon were forced to introduce a zero flow rate, which means no aircraft were allowed enter Irish airspace for a number of hours while frantic efforts got underway to organise re-routing of hundreds of aircraft due to fly through Irish airspace en route from the US to Europe. Assistance was sought from neighbouring ATC centres in London, Brest, Scottish control, and Shanwick, which is responsible for oceanic clearances. Dublin Airport continued to function due to proximity to UK ATC. Digital Desk Dr Peter Boylan has been appointed to help the government implement new abortion services in Ireland. Dr Boylan will consult with other medical experts about bringing the service in and will help with the drafting of clinical guidelines. Drugs worth 249,000 have been seized at Portlaoise Mail Centre by Revenue officers. In one instance, 12kg of Mitragynine powder with an estimated value of 240,000 was found in separate parcels originating in Indonesia and destined for addresses in Roscommon and Dublin. Separately, 350gms herbal cannabis worth 7,000 was found concealed in a biscuit tin from the USA and bound for an address in Dublin. And a quantity of Khat worth 2,000, labelled as 'clothing', came from Kenya addressed to a premises in Dublin. Investigations are ongoing. Since the start of the year, there have been 119 illegal drug detections at Portlaoise Mail Centre. Digital Desk Two time zones may exist on the island of Ireland from April next year if the UK leaves the EU without a deal. A Government spokesperson said the situation could happen after Cabinet was briefed on EU plans to remove the existing daylight saving time system across the common market from spring 2019. Under plans put forward by the European Commission earlier this year, Brussels wants to remove the spring forward, fall back hour difference across the EU by 2021. Should the policy be accepted the move will be mandatory from April 2019, with a two-year phasing in period where countries will have to give six months notice before changing their times. At yesterdays weekly Cabinet meeting Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan detailed the initiative, which is designed to benefit business and improve road safety across the common market. He said that a public consultation process will be put in place before the planned April start date for the move. However, asked yesterday what impact the decision could have on the North and the Republic given the unclear Brexit outcome, a senior Government spokesperson was unable to say if a solution will be found. Despite saying I think it would be a Government objective to not have two time zones on the island of Ireland, he was unable to guarantee that both Belfast and Dublin will remain in the same time zone in the event of a no-deal Brexit which takes the North fully out of the EU. While the issue has been seen as humorous by some, any time zone split on the island of Ireland would further underline the fact that the North and the Republic are different jurisdictions, at an extremely sensitive period. It would also impact on business operations on the border and across the border, and lead to further difficulties for farmers and other people living in the surrounding area. It is understood that, during yesterdays Cabinet meeting, Climate Change Minister Denis Naughten said there is a need for research on comparable countries showing how the time change may or may not benefit different populations. Meanwhile, yesterdays Cabinet meeting saw Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe detail the latest exchequer figures before next weeks budget. Transport Minister Shane Ross brought forward a still unpublished report by Ernst & Young on financial matters at Waterford airport and separate figures from Tourism Ireland showing the country has seen more people travel here for the seventh year running. A man who took part in a truly outrageous attack on a garda station in Cork shortly before Christmas has avoided jail. Thomas Douglas, aged 22, was one of two people who had been charged with criminal damage in relation to the incident at Dunmanway Garda Station on December 17 last, when two people wearing balaclavas and using an iron bar smashed a number of windows. Douglas, who at the time had an address at Cousane Gap in Dunmanway, had pleaded guilty to a charge. At Clonakilty District Court yesterday, Judge Marie Keane heard that the damage to the station amounted to 570.30. Eamonn Fleming, for Douglas, told Judge Keane the December 17 incident occurred in the company of two other people who gardai accept have now absconded and left the jurisdiction. Mr Fleming argued that those people were the main drivers behind the attack on the Garda station. He said his client was homeless at the time and had been staying with the others in a caravan in Cousane Gap. They had taken a lot of drink on the night in question, he said, and Douglas had accompanied the others to Dunmanway. Mr Douglas was, to a certain extent, identified by a ring on his finger and by his footwear on CCTV, said Mr Fleming. Without his admissions, the State may have had difficulty identifying him. The court heard Douglas made those admissions during a second interview on December 23, which, said Mr Fleming, neither of the other two people involved had done. He was the lesser of the parties involved, he said. I think that is the garda view as well. He was certainly influenced by the people he was with. As for what happened at the garda station, Mr Fleming said: It was bravado and calling attention to themselves. Sgt Paul Kelly, prosecuting, said Douglas had a number of previous convictions, the most recent handed down at a Cork City court in July for theft. Douglas, who is unemployed and now living in Rosscarbery, is currently undertaking 240 hours of community service in West Cork on foot of the theft conviction from July. Mr Fleming said the Garda station attack was out of character, adding that he had pleaded guilty at a relatively early stage. I think he is a person that is easily led, said Mr Fleming. He said, given time, Douglas may be able to start paying back the cost of the damage to the Garda station. Convicting Douglas, Judge Keane said: Your behaviour on December 17 was truly outrageous. She said the attack on the garda station was nothing short of scandalous, adding that the loss to the State was almost 600 and no meaningful attempt had been made to pay it back. She imposed a three-month jail term but suspended it for 12 months, warning Douglas not to come to garda attention. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that the idea to establish a demilitarized zone in Syria's Idlib arose during his recent talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Russian leader confirmed that both Russia and Turkey are fulfilling their commitments. "We are working together with our Turkish partners. We see that they are treating these agreements very seriously, fulfilling their commitments, freeing or at least facilitating the process when militants from different radical groups are leaving this zone and when heavy weaponry is withdrawn," Putin said at a press conference after Russian-Austrian talks. "We are doing our part of the job. We will continue our joint efforts," he added, TASS reports. The Russian president noted that "during the talks [with Erdogan], the idea arose to create a demilitarized zone [in Idlib] about 15-20 kilometers deep, in order to ensure greater security of Syrian civilian facilities, cities, settlements, as well as our military base in Hmeymim." Putin said that "militants from all over Syria were brought [to Idlib], and many representatives of radical groups ISIL, Jebhat al-Nusra (both banned in Russia) and others ended up there, unfortunately." "Moreover, we are witnessing confrontations between those groups in the Idlib zone," the Russian president noted. "However, this is not what we are most worried about. We are instead worried that Syrian settlements, including the second-largest Syrian city of Aleppo, have been recently shelled more frequently from that zone. What worries us even more is that attempts to attack our military facilities - Russian military facilities, including the air base in Hmeymim - have been launched from that zone with the use of hand-made but still no less dangerous unmanned aerial vehicles," Putin said. "Because of that, we had to react, to deliver strikes at those places where the threat was coming from. This served as the main topic of last negotiations with President Erdogan in Sochi," the Russian leader noted. The Public Health Alcohol Bill has passed all stages in the Dail this evening. The legislation has taken nearly three years to get through the house. It includes restrictions on advertising and sale of alcohol, and has faced stiff opposition from the drinks industry. "It is a groundbreaking measure" Minister for Health welcomes passing of Public Health (Alcohol) Bill pic.twitter.com/t5vzltvCut RTE News (@rtenews) October 3, 2018 The Bill introduces minimum unity pricing, segregation of alcohol from other products in retail outlets, advertising restrictions as well as a broadcasting watershed. The Health Minister Simon Harris says tonight's outcome is significant for the country's health. "This is the first time in the history of our State, we have endeavoured to use public health legislation to address issues in relation to alcohol," said Minister Harris. "It is, therefore, a groundbreaking measure. "For the first time in our history, we are legislating for alcohol as it affects our health and it is right and proper that we do that." Alcohol Action welcomed the passing of the Bill and thanked the Minister for Health and the Taoiseach for their work. "For nearly ten years, a great many champions of public health from across a wide spectrum of professional bodies, health charities and childrens groups have advocated for this legislation to be advanced," a statement from the group said. "This evenings conclusion is their victory too. "Soon, Ireland will commence the implementation of the Bill; the measures as designed, when implemented coherently and cohesively, and in a timely manner, will make a significant difference, over time, to reducing Irelands excessive alcohol consumption, altering our drinking culture and ultimately protect our children." Digital Desk A nursing home in Co Cork has been found to be in breach of fourteen health regulations by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA). HIQA carried out an unannounced inspection at St Finbarr's Hospital in Cork city over two days in April. Inspectors found Garda vetting disclosure was not available in the centre for recently-recruited staff, while vetting was not in place for all volunteers. There were also open visiting arrangements with visitors seen to freely come and go from the centre. Inspectors said there are not suitable facilities for families to spend time alone with residents approaching the end of life, while they also found inadequate fire safety precautions as fire drills did not involve a full evacuation. HIQA published 20 inspection reports on residential centres for older people today, with inspectors finding evidence of good practice and compliance with the regulations and standards in 11 centres. However, evidence of non-compliance was found in nine centres. In these centres, residents needs were not always being met in line with the regulations and standards. Inspectors identified non-compliances in areas such as governance and management; healthcare needs; premises; residents rights; personal possessions; training and staff development; and written policies and procedures. Reacting to the HIQA report, Cork Kerry Community Healthcare said: "We acknowledge the issues raised by HIQA, and moved immediately after the inspection to address as many as possible. "Of the 14 areas of non-compliance, 10 have now been addressed. To enhance the social model of care we now have three staff assigned to provide therapeutic activities for the residents." A spokesperson that that they have invested "substantially" in furniture and other comfort items for the residents. "We are confident there have been significant changes at St Finbarr's since this inspection, and residents are now enjoying a very different environment and experience. "The four items which have not yet been addressed relate to the buildings themselves. "The current dated infrastructure occupied by St. Finbarrs Residential Services for Older People is due to be replaced by a new purpose built unit on site by 2021, as part of a national Public Private Partnership process currently being progressed by the HSE National Estates Office. "A new building is the only way to address issues of privacy, storage space, space for visiting and space for activities." Digital Desk By Sean ORiordan The housing crisis has left up to 66 sailors sleeping onboard naval service ships, primarily because they are so poorly paid they can not afford mortgages or soaring rents and there are no billets for them at their headquarters in Haulbowline, Co Cork. The situation was reported by PDForra president Mark Keane, who works at the naval base and who said the housing crisis is deeply affecting his associations members. He called on the Department of Defence to convert Victorian-era building at Haulbowline into an accommodation block, which would cost an estimated 6.5m. The department has signalled that it is willing to do this, but not until 2021. We cant wait for two or three years for this to happen, said Mr Keane. It needs to be done now. The cost of renting continues to increase at a very high rate which is very challenging to those on modest incomes. Quite honestly, these levels of increases are unsustainable and some mitigating measures are desperately needed. He said that, until the late 1960s, enlisted personnel were provided with accommodation in the form of single quarters and paid an allowance when they were married and living out. From the 1970s on, all of our allied occupations that is, the Prison Service, An Garda Siochana, and the Fire Service received a rent allowance in addition to the rent element in their pay to ensure that it more closely reflected the actual cost of providing housing, said Mr Keane. The only group who did not receive rent allowance in addition to the rent element of pay were those in the permanent Defence Force. Addressing PDForras annual conference in Castlebar, Co Mayo, he said the number departing the naval service is unprecedented and is having an operational impact with delayed sailings occurring in respect of some ships. Mr Keane said this was hardly a surprise as a PricewaterhouseCoopers report and Dail statements made almost 20 years ago set out figures for the force based on a seven-ship naval service yet they are now operating eight vessels. Vice Admiral Mellett said it was his number one priority to get them more pay across all ranks. He said he would like to see payback from the Government for the loyalty his men and women have shown to the State. Defence Forces top brass have made a submission to the Public Service Pay Commission. However, Vice Admiral Mellett said he wanted to make an oral submission to the commission in the hope of further emphasising the need to improve pay. Meanwhile, a diplomatic paperwork error has delayed the return of 119 soldiers from Syria. The 57th Infantry Group, serving with the UN, should have flown home today but are stranded in Lebanon and may not get back until the weekend. Officials from the Department of Defence, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the Irish embassy in Cairo are engaging with authorities in Lebanon and Syria in an effort to get them flown home as quickly as possible. A Defence Forces spokesman said they were aware of the impact the delay was having on the soldiers and their families but said it was outside of their control. PDFORRA critical of Defence department's 'sharp practice' in relation to personnel PDFORRA is doing the Department of Defence's work for them by paying for medical treatment for serving members of the Defence Forces so they can return to duty as soon as possible. The association has started its own medical insurance scheme to help its members get speedy treatment in a hospital in the north, as opposed to delays being experienced by soldiers, sailors and air crews waiting to be seen Defence Forces Medical Service. PDFORRA president Mark Keane said more than 1,100 of his 6,000 members had already joined the association's Medical Aid Scheme and dozens are joining on a weekly basis. As an act of solidarity PDFORRA has made a start-up contribution of 150,000 to the scheme and this is in addition to the 10,000 we put in last year for MRI scans. Essentially the scheme facilitates our members with speedy medical treatment in respect of injuries which are threatening their careers, Mr Keane said. The treatment is provided under an EU cross-border HSE initiative and is currently being delivered through a hospital in the north. I would like to think that the Department of Defence should provide some support to the scheme given that it is helping the physical wellbeing of its soldiers, sailors and aircrew." Mr Keane said the very existence of the PDFORRA scheme confirmed the huge decline in services provided through the Defence Forces Medical Service. Indeed, more than in any other employment you have a responsibility towards the medical needs of ordinary members of the Permanent Defence Forces. I would like you to think about how you could best support the scheme and I am sure that PDFORRA will be contacting you in the near future on the subject, he told Department of Defence officials. Meanwhile, PDFORRA general secretary, Gerard Guinan, accused the Department of Defence of sharp practice when it didn't deliver on promises to restore cuts to allowances for military personnel. At the time of signing the Haddington Road Agreement the department confirmed that the cuts were for the duration of the agreement, yet, when PDFORRA broached this fact upon the expiry of the HRA, a position, which can only be described as sharp practice was adopted, Mr Guinan said. This has seen the denial of the return of allowance rates on the basis that this agreement is an extension of previous agreements. However much people are told the starting pay of personnel is 27,000 it does little to hide the fact that annualised salary is a hiding ground for pay rates which are below, or equal, to minimum pay when working hours are considered. This isn't an appropriate rate for personnel whom the State arm, train and expect not to go into the private sector, Mr Guinan added. In a statement which appeared to be aimed at Minister Paul Kehoe he said "people need to work harder to convince those at the Cabinet table that investing in the Defence Forces would ensure a viable organisation into the future." By Niall Murray The Governments ban on the use of religion in enrolment procedures could force hundreds of schools to amend policies for applications for entry next year. The restriction takes effect immediately under an order to be signed by Education Minister Richard Bruton this morning, commencing several aspects of the Education (Admissions to Schools) Act 2018 that became law in July. The most controversial aspect of the law is its amendment of equality legislation. This means that, except for schools of minority faiths, it is no longer legal for a school to prioritise children of its religious ethos when it comes to ranking pupils for enrolment. While the provision cannot be applied retrospectively, dozens of primary schools around the country continue to carry enrolment policies on their websites which clearly give priority to children of Catholic faith if they are over-subscribed. The law applies to the decision-making process, which means the use of admission criteria that include religion in policies like these will not be permitted when allocation of next years school places is being decided. Although most primary schools may not have formally opened for applications, the start of November is a common opening date, giving school boards just weeks to revise their policies and publish them. The question of ranking children for enrolment arises for around one in five of the countrys 3,200 primary schools, mostly in large urban areas, when there are not enough places for all applicants. All other schools must continue to accept all applicants, regardless of religion. Mr Bruton said the move is intended to ensure greater fairness in school admissions. While recognising the right of all schools to have their distinctive ethos, the removal of religion as a criteria for admission to school seeks to be fair to all parents including non-religious families that will now find that, in virtually all publicly funded primary schools, they will be treated the same as all other families in school admissions, he said. Schools are also now prevented from charging fees for admission or continued enrolment. The only exceptions are for fee-charging second-level schools, boarding charges, or admission to further education or post-Leaving Certificate courses run by second-level schools. The legal ban extends to contributions sought by schools from parents being linked to admission. Parent representatives told an Oireachtas committee just six weeks ago that children continue to be excluded from activities or access to school resources if so-called voluntary contributions are not paid by their families. The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) welcomed the new powers that will allow Mr Bruton or a successor to compel schools, from December 3, to open dedicated classes for children with special educational needs. Any such decision would relate to areas where there is insufficient capacity as identified by the NCSE, which said it will consult with representatives of schools and other stakeholders. While most schools do welcome and enrol children with special educational needs, the NCSE strongly supports the ministers commitment to ensure that exclusionary practices cannot be permitted in any national system of education, said council chief executive Teresa Griffin. By Ann O'Loughlin Student Rebecca Carter, who won her High Court case aimed at getting a marking mistake fixed in time for her to go to university got more good news today when she found out she had been awarded the legal costs of the action. And Mr Justice Richard Humphreys who handed down his written judgment on the landmark case which meant that Rebecca got her place in veterinary medicine at UCD said the situation the young woman found herself in "cannot be repeated". The judge said that the current system where Leaving Cert exams are reviewed by the State Examination Commission (SEC) is "highly unfair to Leaving Cert Students" and has caused "untold stress" to Rebecca, who earlier this weeks started her chosen course in UCD. The Judge said that in order to avoid a repeat of similar problems in the future "an intensified process of coordination", is required. He added that people should not think that the case had an entirely "Hollywood ending". Rebecca had lost the initial crucial first few weeks of the course. She had missed out not just because of a mistake in the SEC's process, but because the error correction fails to restore Ms Carter's entitlement to take up a place in time for the start of the course. An appeal system that does not allow applicants to take up their courses until one and a half months after the start of the academic year is, "manifestly not fit for purpose," the Judge said. The Judge added that in fairness to the SEC, not all the problems caused by the tight time frames and lack of co-ordination by various independent agencies in the education sphere are entirely the fault of any one actor. The Judge remarks were contained in his full written judgment in a case brought by Ms Carter (18) of Ardcolm Drive, Rectory Hall, Castlebridge, Wexford, who had sued the SEC challenging its decision not to re-check her points score in time to allow her to obtain a place in Veterinary Medicine. Late last month Mr Justice Humphreys ruled that the Commission, which opposed the application, must rectify an error in the totting up of Rebecca's Leaving Certificate marks before UCD closed its admissions for 2018. The Judge said that had her points been correctly added up she would have achieved an extremely high mark that would easily have qualified her for a place at the UCD course. Rebecca had repeated her Leaving Certificate exams and had received 554 points, just six short of the required number for veterinary medicine at UCD. The points required for the course had dropped to 555 in the second round offer which had left her only a point short. Rebecca was not satisfied that the result in her business exam fairly reflected her exam performance and took part in a review. It had been discovered that her points total had been wrongly totted up and had the error not have occurred she would have surpassed the level required for the veterinary course. After her marks were reviewed, Rebecca's business studies grade was increased from a H2 to a H1 grade, and she was offered a place in what was her first choice. The Judge also awarded Ms Carter the costs of the action. The Judge said it was nice to hear that the SEC was anxious to be seen publicly to wish Rebecca well, particularly as it has defended the action on the basis that it argued her proceedings were self-serving. The SEC, the judge added, had also raised the issue of possible costs consequences of taking her action. "Presumably, in making its latest intervention the SEC had in mind Rebecca's averments as to the severe stress this matter had caused her," the Judge added. By Ann O'Loughlin The Irish Examiner has opposed an application by former Garda Commissioner Noirin O'Sullivan for an extension of time to bring a defamation action against the newspaper. Ms Justice Teresa Pilkington, having heard both sides, said today she will rule on the application as soon as possible. Ms O'Sullivan, who served as Commissioner between 2014 and 2017, claims she was defamed by the Irish Examiner in a front page article of October 4th, 2016 entitled "Senior Garda tried to 'destroy' source." The article stated two senior Gardai had made statements under the protected disclosure whistleblower legislation alleging senior Garda management conducted a major campaign to destroy them in the Force in what was described as "a smear campaign". The allegations in the article were raised in the Dail by Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin, and shortly afterwards an inquiry into the disclosures was ordered by the Minister for Justice. In February 2017, the government announced a Commission of Inquiry conducted by Mr Justice Peter Charleton would consider the claims in the disclosures made by Supt Dave Taylor and Sgt Maurice McCabe. Ms O'Sullivan claims she was defamed in the article and, because she is outside the 12-month time limit for defamation cases, wants the court to extend the time so she can sue. The newspaper denies defamation and says it published to the public the contents of what two Gardai had said in protected disclosures to the Minister for Justice about an alleged campaign to damage a garda whistleblower. The story was "dramatic" news and hugely in the public interest given the concerns it raised, it said. Ms O'Sullivan was not named nor identified in the article as being one of the senior gardai against whom allegations were being made in the protected disclosures, it also said. Under the 2009 Defamation Act, litigants have up to 12 months from the date of publication to bring defamation proceedings against the publisher. Under section 38 of that Act, the High Court can extend the 12-month time limit to a maximum of two years. Declan Doyle SC, with Gary Compton BL, for Ms O'Sullivan said she was under the "most intense" strain from when the article was published to the conclusion of the public hearings of the Disclosures Tribunal. It was absolutely crucial that his client be allowed bring the proceedings so she can vindicate her good name, he said. In a sworn statement, Ms O'Sullivan said she was not in a position to bring proceedings against the newspaper until now. The entire controversy had taken a considerable toll on her and her family and she did not want to add to that by challenging the newspaper and other media outlets "who publicly vilified us." Now that the Disclosures Tribunal has concluded its public hearings, she was attempting "to undo the damage that has been done to my reputation by the newspaper and others". She fears the article and others will stand as a permanent record of the "horrendous and false allegations about me", she said. Oisin Quinn SC, with Shane English BL, for the newspaper, said allowing Ms O'Sullivan bring the action would have a "chilling effect on newspapers". The newspaper was only contacted by Ms O'Sullivan's lawyers in September 2018, one year and eleven months after the article she complains of was published, he said. No good reason had been advanced why she should be given an extension of time to bring her case, he argued. Even if the court grants an extension, the newspaper says it has a good defence to the claims, Mr Quinn said. There was significant public interest in the allegations contained in the disclosures being transparently investigated and determined, he said. Ms O'Sullivan has an opportunity for full public vindication in relation to the allegations in the Protected Disclosures when the next report of the Disclosures Tribunal is delivered, he added. In reply, Mr Doyle said his client strongly rejects that argument. Ex-Fine Gael TD Peter Fitzpatrick will back next weeks budget after Taoiseach Leo Varadkar personally asked him for his vote during an emergency 45-minute one-to-one private meeting. Mr Fitzpatrick told to the Irish Examiner last night I dont see any reason not to vote in favour of the budget plans amid ongoing concerns the Government could fall if it fails to be passed. In a shock move, Mr Fitzpatrick quit Fine Gael on Monday night, citing concerns that he had become isolated due to his pro-life views during the campaign to repeal the Eighth Amendment and his issues with existing housing policy. The decision to quit immediately put politicians on general election alert as the Government could only count on 49 Fine Gael TDs, four Independent Alliance TDs, unaligned Independent TDs Katherine Zappone and Denis Naughten, and opposition Independent TD Michael Lowry for support. The 56-person figure is one short of the 57 minimum target set out in the confidence and supply deal with Fianna Fail, meaning Micheal Martins party could bring down the Government by sticking rigidly to the agreement during the budget next week. However, speaking to the Irish Examiner last night, Mr Fitzpatrick said that, after a one-to-one meeting with Mr Varadkar at the Taoiseachs request at Government Buildings yesterday, he is now likely to vote in favour of the budget plans calming the imminent general election threat. It was a 45-minute meeting, it was at the Taoiseachs request, and he said he needs my vote, Mr Fitzpatrick said. What Im going to do now is go back to my constituents, to my advisors. But he talked about what happened, he said he was sorry, and I dont see any reason not to vote for the budget right now. The Louth TD said his decision to still support the Governments budget is not based on any deal and is about more general issues such as ensuring the squeezed middle and people in need are helped. However, the confirmation of his support will be welcomed by a number of TDs whose seats would be under pressure if any general election is called. While Mr Fitzpatricks support will only bring budget support to 57, a number of Government sources said Fine Gael has a de facto agreement with former Independent Alliance TD Sean Canney and opposition Independent TD Noel Grealish for support on Dail money and no confidence motion votes. Although no specific conversations were held with these individuals, this situation, Government sources claim, means Fine Gael believes it will have a 59-person Dail support in the budget two more votes than needed. Meanwhile, the Government press secretary and Mr Fitzpatrick both separately confirmed yesterday that Mr Varadkar did not speak to the Louth TD last week when reports of his potential departure first emerged. Instead Mr Varadkar, who had last spoken to Mr Fitzpatrick in late July, left discussions to Fine Gael parliamentary party chair Martin Heydon, who sits next to Mr Fitzpatrick in the Dail, and Government chief whip Joe McHugh. Asked yesterday if Fianna Fail or the Rural Independents would be interested in enticing Mr Fitzpatrick to join them, both Fianna Fail business spokesman Billy Kelleher and Cork South West TD Michael Collins said they are always open to new options. However, Mr Fitzpatrick told the Irish Examiner last night he wants to remain as an Independent and has no plans to join any other group. By Daniel McConnell and Fiachra O Cionnaith A row has broken out within Government over next weeks budget after Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe was warned that increasing the 9% Vat rate would screw businesses across the country. Disabilities Minister Finian McGrath hit out at the situation after the Irish Examiner yesterday revealed Mr Donohoe is set to increase the rate to at least 11% in order to raise 526m in additional tax revenue. Speaking as Fianna Fail insisted there must be some movement on affordable housing and that the housing assistance payment must be significantly increased as its demand-led, Cabinet sources said Mr McGrath warned that the increase would be screwing businesses. While claiming the comment is bizarre, to say the least, one week out from the budget, one minister admitted the comments were met with deafening silence from Fine Gael members of Cabinet. The stand-off is likely to play heavily in the final days of talks before Tuesdays budget and follows Mr McGrath, an Independent Alliance TD, arguing for the need to protect small hotels, restaurants, and guesthouses. While Mr McGrath has been clear that a flat increase would severely hurt such businesses, his comments at Cabinet yesterday are understood to have puzzled ministers who are unsure if the Independent Alliance TDs will go to the wall on the issue. This move will bring in an awful lot of money, half a billion at least, so if we dont do this, what will Finian cut or what else will he not spend, asked one minister. The situation emerged as Mr Donohoe again met with his Fianna Fail counterpart Michael McGrath and public expenditure spokesman Barry Cowen just a week out from the publication of Budget 2019. Sources close to the process said after yesterdays meeting that there has been some movement on affordable housing and that Fianna Fail believes the housing assistance payment must be significantly increased as its demand-led. The budget tax plan is understood to have been mainly completed and will involve what has been termed small, modest changes. Key issues including Brexit protection costs, agriculture funding, education, and other matters remain unresolved, with Mr Donohoe due to hold further talks on the areas with relevant ministers later this week. Opposition parties lashed out at the overspending situation yesterday, with Sinn Fein and Fianna Fail both warning the HSEs budget may be up to 1bn in the red by the end of the year with a 300m overspend reported in the first nine months of 2018. Meanwhile, Sinn Fein launched its alternative budget plan yesterday. The partys finance spokesman, Pearse Doherty, said among the key elements of the plan will be 1.7bn worth of social protection, health, housing, and education spending. In addition, he said if Sinn Fein was in government, the party would phase out the property tax over three years and introduce 2.4bn worth of tax measures. Sinn Fein has said it is also in favour of increasing the minimum wage by 95c per hour, to 10.50, and of raising weekly social welfare payments by 5. By Sean McCarthaigh One of the countrys main banks has secured High Court orders preventing a well-known anti-eviction campaigner from taking any more legal actions against it. AIB has been granted orders which restrain Ben Gilroy, the founder of Direct Democracy Ireland, from issuing any more legal proceedings or motions against the bank or any of its directors or staff. Mr Justice Robert Haughton said Mr Gilroy could only initiate such a case in future with the prior permission of the president of the High Court. The judge also issued an order which prevents Mr Gilroy from assisting anyone in any legal action in a representative capacity whether as a McKenzie friend, a lay advisor, or otherwise. Mr Gilroy, of Riverview, Athlumney Abbey, Navan, Co Meath, was also ordered to stay away from the AIB headquarters in Ballsbridge as well as the private homes of several named bank officials and agents. The case arises from legal proceedings initiated by AIB in 2013 to recover a loan worth over 3m from Seamus McQuaid who was assisted in court by Mr Gilroy. The High Court ruled in February 2017 that Mr McQuaid should repay the bank 3,256,217 plus interest. AIB subsequently became aware in May 2017 of a voluntary transfer of lands and properties in Co Monaghan by Mr McQuaid, over which receivers had been appointed by the bank, to Mr Gilroy and another individual, Charles McGuinness. AIB claimed that Mr Gilroy was a central participant in a scheme designed to put Mr McQuaids assets beyond the banks reach by placing them in a trust he and Mr McGuinness had set up. The bank sought an Isaac Wunder order against Mr Gilroy. Mr Justice Haughton granted the orders. A legal challenge is among the options being considered by residents in the wake of a Bord Pleanala decision to grant planning for apartments on the site of a former Magdalene laundry in Cork city. An action group in the Sundays Well area leading opposition to the housing plan at the former Good Shepherd Convent plans to meet with local elected public representatives this week to discuss concerns about the planning appeals boards decision to sanction the controversial housing plan. The group is also planning a public meeting on the issue next week. To say we are disappointed and angered is to put it mildly, said a spokesperson for the group. The group said it has noted a number of issues in the Bord inspectors report and has asked local residents to review the report which will be discussed at the public meeting next week. But it said the deadline for the submission of any judicial review proceedings relating to the Bords decision is November 14. We are exploring our options as to what, if any, further action can be taken. We have noted some factual inaccuracies and inconsistencies in the report which may allow for some challenge, said the spokesman. Moneda Developments Limited, a Dundalk-based company, was granted planning permission by Cork City Council last year for 182 apartments on the site of the former Good Shepherd Convent. The council noted the significant social, architectural and conservation importance and sensitivity of the site and directed that archaeological excavations take place before any development occurs. The councils decision was appealed to An Bord Pleanala which recently upheld the councils decision, sanctioning 182 apartments and 20 houses on the former convent site. The action group says when the mix of beds per apartment is taken into account, it could lead to an occupancy of up to 900 people. Traffic, environmental, and privacy issues were all deemed not to have any impact on the community here and were dismissed, said the spokesman. The eight-acre site, which lies between Sundays Well and Blarney St, was sold by the Good Shepherd Sisters to UCC in 1995. Since then it has had a number of owners. The buildings were badly damaged over the years by fire. At the height of the boom, it was sold for more than 20m. The Magdalene grave at the site contains the names of just 30 women who died between 1882 and 1973. The public meeting on the planning appeals board decision will take place at the Strawberry Hill Community Centre at 7.30pm on October 11. Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed amendments to the pension legislation. "President of Russia V.V. Putin has signed the Federal Law On Amending Some Legal Acts of the Russian Federation concerning appointment and payment of pensions, passed by the State Duma (lower house of parliament) on September 27, 2018 and approved by the Federation Council (upper house of parliament) on October 3, 2018," the Russian presidential press service said, TASS reports. Earlier, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Putin would not procrastinate with a decision on the laws concerning changes in Russias pension system, which would be submitted to him for signing after approval by the Federation Council. "Obviously, the president wont procrastinate with his decision," he said. Earlier on Wednesday, the Federation Council had voted for endorsing the changes in the national pension system that envision an increase in retirement age and also criminal proceedings for unjustified dismissal of soon-to-retire employees. The pension age is to be increased to 65 years from 60 years for men and to 60 years from 55 years for women. Men will have the right to receive old-age social pensions upon turning 70 years old and women, upon turning 65. Until now, men turning 65 and women turning 60 could receive this type of pensions. The document was overhauled in the second reading in the light of amendments introduced by Putin. Initially, the Russian government that submitted the bill to the State Duma, the lower house, had planned to raise the retirement age for women to 63, but Putin proposed to slash it to 60. In addition, the bill enables men who have an employment record of 42 years and women with an employment record of 37 years to retire before they reach the official retirement age. Another amendment says that mothers are allowed to retire earlier if they have more than three children. The bill reaffirms the current norms for getting funded pensions. Women have an opportunity to request them upon turning 55 years old and men, upon turning 60. It also stipulates that citizens who have worked more than 30 years in agriculture will receive additional support. Theyve spelled it out loud and clear: Love your beach. An army of young environmentalists used the rubbish they cleared from several Cork beaches to send a strong message to the public. It follows a two-day coastal blitz by more than 160 second-level students who cleared tonnes of rubbish from almost seven beaches along the countys east coast. Transition year students from St Colmans Community College in Midleton and Colaiste an Chroi Naofa in Carraig na bhFear joined forces on Monday to tackle Ballycroneen and Ballybranagan beaches in a massive effort organised by award-winning environmental group, Clean Coasts Ballynamona. They spent several hours scouring the beaches, rocky outcrops, and dunes, collecting a total of 101 bags of rubbish, 13 tyres, old fishing boxes, and several mounds of old rope fishing nets. Some of the fishing nets could be up to 40 years old. It took nearly a dozen students almost half an hour to dig one large fishing net out of the sand. They also recovered sewage-related litter including cotton bud tips and sanitary items. Almost 50 transition year students from St Colmans hit four beaches yesterday Pilmore, Redbarn, Clay-castle, and Front Strand in Youghal. A section of wire fencing, buried in 3ft of sand, was among the litter removed. Clean Coast Ballynamona co-ordinator Proinsias O Tuama praised students for their efforts and enthusiasm. We know we have a problem with marine litter and with plastic in particular, and its up to students like this, as the next generation, to take responsibility. Maybe if you can get them thinking about where litter comes from and is going, then maybe you can help them to make better environmental decisions. And maybe we can help them make better consumer decisions too when they are buying products in the shops like Do I have to buy a product wrapped in all that plastic? The Taoiseach has been called on to follow in the steps of Michael Collins in standing up for Cork. Raising changes to the Cork city and county council boundaries, Independent TD and namesake of the Irish revolutionary, Michael Collins, claimed the alterations have the potential to cause major financial strain on the county. I ask the Taoiseach to follow in the steps of my fellow West Corkman, General Michael Collins, and to govern for his country, rural and urban. He must not allow politicians who are not acting in the interest of all their people to win out. Leo Varadkar told the Dail that the Government is ambitious for Cork and expects its population to grow by at least 50% by 2040. He said a compensation package would be rolled out to ensure the county area does not lose out through a loss of rates from businesses that transfer into the city. Separately, the Taoiseach was unable to provide confirmation that naval vessels are now unable to set sail because of staff shortages. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin questioned him on reports that the LE Orla and the LE Niamh had been prevented from going to sea due to crew shortages. Mr Martin said: The picture being painted is of a Defence Forces that is very seriously depleted, going through a severe retention crisis, with a shortage of specialist personnel in terms of bomb disposal experts and so forth, very low morale all around, poorly paid, and... poor conditions of service. He said there is a lack of respect, and indeed contempt from the Government towards the Defence Forces. Social Democrat Catherine Murphy raised the issue of rural broadband and said the one remaining bidder for the contract to roll-out the infrastructure is almost unrecognisable from the entity which first entered the process. We had Eir and SIRO exit the process, while Enet remained on as the leader of the remaining consortium. In July of this year, SSE pulled out of the consortium. Enet replaced SSE with the State-backed Irish infrastructure fund, yet the consortium continued to morph and just last month it emerged that Enet is no longer leading the consortium but is now a partner alongside other companies, including Actavo, formerly known as Siteserv, she said. She asked the Taoiseach if he was concerned that the Irish Water contracts were awarded to a subsidiary of Siteserv, which is now subject to a commission of investigation. Fine Gael was in government when the second mobile phone licence was awarded to Esat, which then became the subject of the Moriarty tribunal. It is now looking like Fine Gael will be in government when the national broadband plan contract is awarded to a consortium in which the same high-profile business people are involved. Would it not be better and more pertinent to ask the questions now, before any contract is awarded, in order to make sure that there is absolute public confidence in both the process and the outcome? she asked. Mr Varadkar said the Government is absolutely determined to provide broadband to every home in the country but the due diligence would be carried out to ensure that the consortium is capable of delivering. Who was that? The question was posed by Brazilian busker Franklin Martins as President Michael D Higgins, his wife Sabina, and the vast media scrum surrounding him moved away. At the top of Dublins Grafton St, during a rare walkabout, Sabina, under the gaze of reporters and photographers, made sure to drop a few euro into Franklins guitar case. He and the President had shared a few words, even if Franklin had no clue what all the fuss was about. The chaos of the occasion was absorbing as the incumbent made his way slowly down Dublins most famous shopping street. Young mothers such as Rosey Valentine, with six-week-old Lilly, got the chance to have their picture taken with the first couple. Shed be voting for him, said Rosey as several reporters gushed over her little bundle. Newly returned travellers such as Stephen Dunne from Dublin, who had just stepped off a plane from Amsterdam, was cock-a-hoop with himself. I met Miggeldy! Mad when the second person you talk to after getting off the plane is the President of Ireland!!, he said on Twitter a short time later. The Presidents handlers and security detail appeared relaxed, taking turns to assume photographic duties for those selfie-mad punters. Leon Gibbons aged 10 poses for pic with @MichaelDHiggins during cavass walkabout on Grafton Street #iestaff pic.twitter.com/Kaqtt2luNP Daniel McConnell (@McConnellDaniel) October 2, 2018 The popularity of the President was palpable with members of the public, young and old, knocking each other out of the way to get to shake the hand and have a picture taken. The assembled media were also keen to ask the President a few questions, as such interactions are severely limited in normal circumstances. Standing in the shadow of Phil Lynotts statue across from McDaids pub, Higgins stood to address his inquisitors. He confirmed he will take part in three broadcast debates involving presidential candidates between now and polling day on October 26. The debates will be with Cormac O hEadhra on RTE Radio 1 on Saturday, October 13; a TV debate with presenter Pat Kenny on Virgin Media 1 on Wednesday, October 17; and an RTE Prime Time debate on Tuesday, October 23. So no room for a debate on Claire Byrnes show, it appears. Becoming agitated at one point, Higgins described as outrageous the weekend media reports that he used part of a 317,000 allowance to top up the pay of a special adviser. He described the charge, contained in a Sunday newspaper, as slanderous and hurtful to the individual involved, who is not able to defend himself. Despite deploying strong language, Higgins ruled out any possibility of him taking legal action. The President stressed that the allowance was spent only for appropriate purposes. These are primarily the hosting of events in Aras an Uachtarain. Interestingly, his commitment to make a formal statement about the allowance and how it is spent before the end of the campaign was rowed back on. He said it would now be unlikely that such a statement would appear before the end of the campaign. Any unspent monies from this allowance would return to the exchequer at the end of his seven-year term and not at the end of 14 years if re-elected, he said. Charles Brandts book on the guy who shot Jimmy Hoffa is being made into a movie by Martin Scorsese, writes Marjorie Brennan. For most authors, getting a film deal for their book is the icing on the cake, a welcome bonus after the hard work of getting it written and published. But when one of cinemas most revered directors wants to adapt your work, its a completely different ball game. When one of the most famous actors in film history wants to play the lead role, it becomes a pinch me, Im dreaming moment. Just ask Charles Brandt, whose book I Heard You Paint Houses is being brought to the screen by Martin Scorsese, with Robert De Niro in the lead role. I was jumping up and down, doing cartwheels, it was incredible. Marty is the perfect man for this script, for this book. Especially the subject, thats his wheelhouse, as we say, says Brandt. The subject of Brandts bestselling book is Frank Sheeran, a former labour union leader with Irish roots, who became a hitman for the mafia, and confessed to one of the great unsolved crimes in modern American history, the killing of union boss Jimmy Hoffa. Scorsese is back on familiar ground with his adaptation, called The Irishman, which is due to be released on Netflix next year with a heavyweight cast, including Joe Pesci, Harvey Keitel and Al Pacino. The film has been in gestation since 2009 and Brandt, a former homicide investigator and prosecutor, has been on board from the start. I went to a meeting with Marty at the Parker Meridien in New York that was supposed to last an hour and we ended up talking for four hours, he says. The process of getting the book to the screen was a long one, however, with the usual bumps in the road, often described in the business as development hell. I needed patience, so I prayed for patience I was raised Catholic so I knew how to do it, he laughs. The next thing was I got a call from Bob De Niro, years later, in 2016, and he wanted to know if I planned on being in New York any time soon. Brandt, who now lives in Sun Valley, Idaho, was soon on a plane back to the Big Apple, where he attended a series of script meetings with Scorsese, De Niro and the Oscar-winning screenwriter Steve Zaillian, who was writing the adaptation. They rented me a hotel room near Martys office and I got a series of scripts I was to make notes on, and then wed have a meeting. It was Martin Scorsese, Bob De Niro, Steve Zaillian, and Charlie Brandt, he laughs. We did that for two months and the final script, I said, I have no notes. This is the Frank Sheeran I knew and this is his journey. That was the last script I got, then they began filming. Brandt became friends with Sheeran, whose father was from Dublin, after he was hired to secure the contract killers early release from jail on medical grounds. In the course of five years of interviews with Brandt, Sheeran confessed to more than 25 murders, including that of Teamster boss Hoffa, who had been Sheerans friend and mentor. Hoffas body has never been found. Frank and I became very close, there was mutual affection and respect, says Brandt. He knew what I did and respected what I did, even though I was on the opposite side to his world, a prosecutor and a homicide investigator, and he was a perpetrator of homicides. "As my wife put it, he was so charming, when she left his company, she would have to remind herself he was a murderer. Their shared Catholic background helped Brandt and Sheeran to connect and also meant Brandt filled something of a father confessor role in their relationship. The tapes of Sheeran confessing his involvement in the Hoffa murder to Brandt were later subpoenaed by the FBI in their investigation. Charles Brandt Being raised Catholic was very important hed introduce me as either the Holy Roller or Mr Prosecutor, depending on the technique I was using. "He was tortured by his conscience as far as the Hoffa murder was concerned. Frank was a strict Catholic, his father studied to be a priest for five years and his mother went to Mass every morning. "He didnt even know there was such a thing as organised crime until he fell in with the mafia and became an integral part of it. Playing a gangster isnt exactly fresh territory for De Niro, and one of his many memorable roles was as another Irish mafia hitman, Jimmy Conway in Goodfellas. Brandt is anticipating that his portrayal of Sheeran will be equally celebrated. Of course, Bob is part-Irish, through his mother. I was on the set a couple of times and everyone was talking about the amazing job he was doing, the way he was channelling Frank. "To see the make-up job that was done on him, it was incredible he looked exactly like Frank, it was scary. "One time we were chatting and I was telling him what a great job hed done and he bent over and kissed me on the cheek, so the more we talked the more kisses I got. "We finished and he must have kissed me five times. Six times, said my wife, I counted. While Brandt has written several true-crime books, including on which the movie Donnie Brasco was based, his own story the grandson of Italian immigrants who could not read or write, who went from English teacher to welfare investigator in Harlem to a DA sounds like good material for a movie. Im in the process of writing a memoir. Its heartwarming for me, because I came from a very loving family. My grandparents were born in Italy, as was my oldest uncle, and they settled in Staten Island. "They had a farm, my grandfather peddled his produce; they were what I call Perry Como Italians. Brandt also has roots in Ireland, and he is looking forward to his first visit here, for the I.NY festival in Limerick, where he will discuss his work and his relationship with Frank Sheeran. When Sheeran died in 2003, aged 83, Brandt was one of the pallbearers at his funeral. He got absolution from the hospital priest. In a sense it was sad, but he died the way he wanted to die in a state of grace, that was his goal. "I was a father confessor to him, I played that role. "When he got absolution, the priest didnt require the details, just that he was truly sorry for the life he lived. I.NY Festival 2018 is part of the Global Irish Festival series and takes place at venues across Limerick City from Oct 7-14. For tickets and information visit www.thisisINY.com. The Story of Frank Sheeran with author Charles Brandt in conversation with Michael Clifford takes place on Wed, Oct 10, at 8pm in LIT Millennium Theatre. Tickets from 15-20. Older LGBT people often return to the closet, afraid that their sexuality may be an issue for their carers, and so they become invisible within the health system. A new campaign offers reassurance, writes Paula Fagan. On the 25th anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Ireland, much more needs to be done to support, care for, recognise, and understand older LGBT people. I reference Taoiseach Leo Varadkar when, earlier this year, he thanked people who helped change minds and change laws in 1993, but also said help is still needed, 25 years later, and into the future, to give all LGBT people full, inclusive rights and supports. To address the needs of older LGBT people, my organisation, LGBT Ireland, has launched a national poster campaign to create awareness of the amount of support and information available on our helpline and that a listening ear is there. The poster campaign is part of a broader education programme for health and social care professionals and workers. LGBT Ireland developed the programme as a result of consultations with older-age services. In these consultations, it became clear that older LGBT people are largely invisible within mainstream services. This is not surprising, given that older LGBT people grew up in a time when it was difficult to be open about being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender and many experienced significant discrimination, stigma, and social exclusion. Despite the barriers, people did manage to come out and this has paved the way for the increased visibility and rights of today. However, as this older generation begin to access health and social care support, many go back into the closet, as they fear those caring for them will be insensitive about their LGBT identity or will discriminate against them. The findings of our research created a strong drive to address these issues and make this LGBT generation visible, so posters are going up around the country to show people that there is support for them. LGBT Ireland launched its National Helpline Poster Campaign for older people as part of International Day for Older Persons. The campaign aims to raise awareness of support services available to older LGBT people and raise visibility of older LGBT people with mainstream services pic.twitter.com/YDlloXE3Y1 LGBT Ireland (@LGBT_ie) October 1, 2018 The poster campaign will run in collaboration with Nursing Homes Ireland, Sage Advocacy, Alone, and Age & Opportunity, to increase the visibility of older LGBT people within older-age services. These organisations will be disseminating the poster to their member services across the country and will, hopefully, serve to raise awareness of the double invisibility faced by older LGBT people, compared to older people in general. There is a need for mainstream health and social care services to be welcoming and supportive of older LGBT people, so they feel comfortable in accessing healthcare services when they need them. Statistics from the Visible Lives Study, a 2011 study into the experiences of older LGBT people, showed that 40% of the older people surveyed were not out to their healthcare provider and many feared that healthcare staff would not understand, or would discriminate against them, because they were LGBT. LGBT Ireland is currently providing training to health and social care services to equip staff with the knowledge, competence, and skills to provide inclusive healthcare to older LGBT people. This is particularly important in residential care settings and we are aiming to have at least one LGBT champion in every nursing home in Ireland by 2021. The statistics from our own service show us the need for services and supports: 14% of calls to the LGBT helpline last year were from older LGBT people. The main reasons for contacting the organisation were lack of social supports, isolation, and loneliness. Of this, 77 % of the older people who contacted the LGBT Ireland Helpline lived in rural areas, with rural isolation cited as a major concern and issue. Many parts of Ireland have no LGBT specific supports, which makes it impossible for people to build a support network, so it is key that we, as a country, develop community-based supports regionally. To enhance services and supports, LGBT Irelands forthcoming volunteer conference is taking place in Cork, this Saturday, and will have a panel discussion on the experiences and challenges of older LGBT people. This will provide more insight and evidence to continue to advocate for supports for the ageing population. Cork has paved the way in support services, with Linc and the Cork Gay Project, but, as the saying goes, a lot done, more to do. There is still a lot of work to be done to ensure that when a person is lesbian, gay, bisexual, or trans, they can be open about who they are, so they are visible and celebrated in workplaces, homes, and communities across Ireland. The LGBT Helpline can be contacted on 1890 929 539 or log onto lgbt.ie/. Paula Fagan is the CEO of LGBT Ireland. Arlene Fosters declaration that the Good Friday Agreement is not sacrosanct is shocking, but hardly surprising, as the party she leads, the DUP, opposed it in the first place. In advance of attending the British Conservative Party annual conference in Birmingham yesterday, she said it was wrong to suggest the 1998 peace accord could not be altered to accommodate the final Brexit deal. In tandem with her newfound friend, Boris Johnson, Ms Foster appears to be exhausting the vocabulary of disrespect and denial: Disrespect in the form of repeated attempts by her and her party to undermine what is an international treaty; and denial of the political realities surrounding Brexit. The agreement made at Belfast was signed by the British and Irish governments and voted for overwhelmingly by the people of Northern Ireland and the Republic in a joint referendum, so any attempt to undermine or circumvent it is contemptuous of the wishes of people on both sides of the border. That show of disrespect and disregard, for the wishes of the people of the North, and of the UK as a whole, was heightened by her party colleague Jeffrey Donaldson, who said on RTE radio that while the DUPs preference would be to continue operating under the Good Friday Agreement, changes would have to be made to it, in the event of a no-deal Brexit. Taken together, that means that it is the DUPs position that the agreement should be altered regardless of whether there is a deal or not on Brexit. That is simply not going to happen and to even suggest it could shows just how much Ms Foster and her colleagues are in denial. She insists that, in Brexit negotiations, the North be treated exactly the same as Britain, but it is already different, politically, economically, and constitutionally. The Good Friday Agreement is not up for negotiation in Brexit talks. pic.twitter.com/JwKLrnLUN1 Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) October 2, 2018 The Irish government has no say in the running of England, Scotland, or Wales, but it has enjoyed a consultative role in the affairs of Northern Ireland since the Anglo-Irish Agreement of 1985, signed by Margaret Thatcher and Garret FitzGerald. That was the biggest constitutional change made by any UK government since accession to the EEC in 1973. Whether the DUP, or the wider unionist community, likes it or not, the North is different to the rest of the UK and is likely to remain so for the foreseeable future. Foster also appears to have aligned herself with Johnson, endorsing his vision for Brexit and declaring that she would support him as British prime minister. As Taoiseach Leo Varadkar heads for Brussels tomorrow for talks with the president of the European Council, Donald Tusk, and the EUs chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, it is important that he watches our back and keeps a weather eye on what any Foster-Johnson alliance might cook up. It must never be forgotten that the Good Friday Agreement is what brought peace to this island, after three decades of bloodshed that left 3,000 people dead. It must be made clear to Arlene Foster and co that, as far as we are concerned, peace on the island of Ireland is sacrosanct and, until any change to the Good Friday Agreement is accepted by all citizens, north and south, it, too, remains sacrosanct. In his letter of October 1, Robert Sullivan tells us that the EU is attempting humiliation in its negotiation with the UK on Brexit. In deciding to tear up its agreement with nearly 30 other European democracies and leave the EU, the UK has declared economic war on some of its poorest fellow European countries. Through Brexit, for example, the UK goes from co-operating with democratic countries that recently were colonies of the Soviet Union to competing with them. Is it not an irony of history that a democracy, which less than a century ago governed an empire which contained nearly a quarter of the population of the globe and which was on the winning side in two world wars since, should be complaining about being humiliated by the EU which is made up of nearly 30 democracies many of which, including this country, were former colonies? Is it also not a little ironic that a democracy which is a nuclear power and member of Nato, a permanent member of the security council of the UN, and has one of the largest and most developed economies in the world, should be complaining about being humiliated by the democratic countries of the EU nearly all of which have much less power and influence than the UK? By voting for Brexit, the UK has shown contempt for the countries of the EU. By voting for Brexit, the UK has virtually torn up the Good Friday Agreement signed with this former colony. The attempted humiliation is being perpetrated by the UK not the other way around. A Leavy Sutton Dublin Iranian President Hassan Rouhani praised Europe for taking a big step toward maintaining business with Iran after the unilateral U.S. withdrawal from a 2015 nuclear deal and re-imposition of new sanctions on the Islamic Republic. "To maintain financial and monetary relations in Iran, Europe has formed a special body... Europe has taken a big step," Tasnim cited Rouhani as saying. The Iranian President also said the Trump administration was "extremely angry" with Europes decision, Reuters reported. The World Court ordered the United States today to ensure that sanctions against Iran do not impact humanitarian aid or civil aviation safety. Asia Oversupply of Drugs in Mekong, E. Asia Puts Younger Users at Risk, UN Says A police officer arranges seized drugs before a news conference at Office of the Narcotics Control Board in Bangkok, Thailand on September 18, 2018. / Reuters News Audit Says Long-Term Land Leases Costing Yangon Coffers Dearly A shopping mall managed by the Natural World company in People's Park, Yangon. / The Irrawaddy YANGON The Yangon Auditor Generals report for 2016-17 shows that public spaces leased to private businesses under long-term contracts were costing the government billions of kyats. The report says the citys municipal body, the Yangon City Development Committee, has been leasing out parts of the citys public parks since the previous administration using long-term contracts. In some case the prices were set as low as 32 kyats ($0.02) per square foot, far below the current average price of 1,000 kyats ($0.66), according to lawmakers. In U Ottama Park, located by the foot of Shwedagon Pagodas southern stairwell, more than 180,000 square feet of land have been leased to five restaurants and an amusement park at 56.91 kyats per square foot. National League for Democracy lawmaker U Zin Min Htwe told Parliament on Wednesday that, using the current average price of 1,000 kyats per square foot, the government has lost more than 2 billion kyats a year. He said if the money were managed properly, the government could put it to good use. There are more than 500 people living in the dark at night [in my constituency] because they live a few hundred feet away from a power line. Its very sad for them, he said. The Auditor Generals report says more than 19 acres of land in Karaweik Park were leased to the Zay Kabar Company in 2010 for 30 years at 47.477 kyat per square foot, also far below the current average market price. Zay Kabar, one of Myanmars largest construction companies, is run by tycoon U Khin Shwe. His daughter is married to the son of U Shwe Mann, the third most influential person in the former military regime and now an important ally of State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. In another case, 76.36 acres of Peoples Park, near the western stairwell of Shwedagon Pagoda, were leased to Natural World in 2014 at 32 kyat per square foot. News Death of a Politician and Life-Long Fighter of Ethnic Mon Rights Nai Ngwe Thein, the politician and life-long fighter of rights for the Mon people in 2016. / Nai Ko Thu A veteran ethnic Mon leader who fought for equal rights for his people for over 70 years since Myanmar got independence, passed away in Yangon on Tuesday. Nai Ngwe Thein was once a member of the security forces under Gen. Aung Sans leadership. According to his family, he passed away at 6 p.m. in his home in Yangon aged 96 years old. His death was preceded by a long-term illness. His funeral will be held on Saturday, Oct. 6. Before his death, Nai Ngwe Thein served as chairman of the Mon National Party and worked along with other ethnic groups as a member of the United Nationalities Alliance (UNA). His former political party, the Mon National Democratic Front (MNDF), won four seats in the 1990 elections. He entered the world of politics when he was 25 years old, later working with the NLD, led by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, as a member of the UNA fighting for human rights and democracy under the suppression of the military regime. Many of his ethnic Mon comrades who worked with him over the years have expressed sadness at his passing, saying that though he worked hard for many long years, he didnt get to see freedom for his ethnic Mon people. Min Kyi Win, Mon States minister for the environment and natural resources, said Nai Ngwe Thein was a good leader who committed almost his whole life to serving his ethnic Mon people. He was the first person to start the fight for the freedom of the ethnic Mon. He served his people until he could not move from his bed, said Min Kyi Win. Min Kyi Win, who once served as general secretary of the MNDF, said he and Nai Ngwe Thein once spent time in prison together after the Myanmar military regime arrested them in 1998. He went on to say that Nai Ngwe Thein was responsible for the Mon ethnic people gaining official recognition as an ethnic group of Myanmar, at a time when the military regime refused to recognize them. The Burmese did not [officially] recognize the ethnic Mon. [Nai Ngwe Thein] fought for it until Burmese had to recognize our ethnic Mon are in the country of Myanmar, said Min Kyi Win. Nai Ngwe Thein envisioned equal rights for the Mon, including their right to self-determination. He joined the Mon National Defense Organization (MNDO) an ethnic armed group and was an executive member for 10 years until 1958 when U Nus government successfully persuaded the group to disarm and become a political entity. When Gen. Ne Wins military dictatorship declared Mon State the official home of the ethnic Mon, Nai Ngwe Thein and his Mon comrades were not yet satisfied as they still desired self-determination. He died without seeing the fruits of his fight for rights. He could only see the skin [of the fruit], said Min Kyi Win. Other Mon politicians must carry on his foundations and fight for equal rights for the Mon, said Min Kyi Win. Nai Ngwe Thein was born in Thong Ein Village, in Karen State in 1923 to parents Nai Thar Ton Aung and Mi Ngwe Sein. He attended Jackson College in 1942, and participated in the anti-fascist movement alongside the Burmese Independence Army (BIA). He served a member of the BIAs security forces in Kyaik Lat, Ayeyarwaddy Division. When the BIA reformed as the Burma Defense Army (BDA), Gen. Aung San, the father of Aung San Suu Kyi, invited him to join cadet training and he served as a member of a guerrilla force in Dagon Township, Yangon in 1945 when the BDA attacked Japanese troops who had invaded the country. He resigned as a member of the group when Gen. Aung San was assassinated in 1947. In his time, he dealt with many generations of Myanmars military regime including the military governments of U Nu, Gen. Ne Win, Gen. Saw Maung, and Gen. Than Shwe. Nai Ngwe Thein was sent to prison as a political prisoner four times during his lifetime. He was detained first in 1948 in Moulmein Prison. He was arrested for a second time in 1962 when U Ne Win orchestrated a military coup. After being arrested in 1990, he was sentenced to 21 years in prison. His fourth imprisonment, a sentence of seven years, came in 1998 for writing a letter to the New Mon State Party advising them against signing the ceasefire agreement. The letter said that as long as the Mon didnt have equal rights or democracy, they should not sign a ceasefire with the military as it would only serve to prolong the success of their regime. After the letter was discovered, he and other Mon political leaders were detained and sentenced to imprisonment. News Myanmar's Neighbors Urge Accountability for Rakhine Violence An aerial view shows burned down villages once inhabited by the Rohingya seen from the Myanmar military helicopters that carried the UN envoys to northern Rakhine State, Myanmar, May 1, 2018. / Reuters SINGAPORE Southeast Asian foreign ministers have urged Myanmar to give a full mandate to an inquiry commission to hold accountable those responsible for the violence in Rakhine State, Singapore said on Tuesday. The ministers, who met informally on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly last week, expressed grave concern over the violence, Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan told Parliament, calling it a man-made humanitarian disaster. Over the last year, more than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled Buddhist-majority Myanmar to neighboring Bangladesh, according to UN agencies, following a military response to attacks on security posts by Rohingya insurgents. A recent UN report accused Myanmars military of gang rapes and mass killings with genocidal intent in Rakhine and called for its commander-in-chief and five generals to be prosecuted under international law. Myanmar has denied most of the allegations in the report, blaming Rohingya terrorists for most accounts of atrocities. We expressed our grave concern with these alleged acts of violence This is a man-made humanitarian disaster and something which should not be happening in this day and age, Balakrishnan said, referring to the meeting of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which includes Myanmar. The foreign ministers urged the Myanmar government thatan independent commission of inquiryshould be given a full mandate to investigate and to hold all those responsible fully accountable. Singapore chairs ASEAN this year and regional leaders will meet next month in the city-state. Myanmars government spokesman, Zaw Htay, did not answer telephone calls on Tuesday. Last month, he said he would no longer speak to the media over the phone but only at a biweekly conference. In July, Myanmar established a commission of inquiry to probe allegations of human rights abuses in Rakhine, which includes two local and two international members from Japan and the Philippines. ASEAN, formed more than half a century ago, has historically struggled with challenges facing the region because it works only by consensus and is reluctant to get involved in any matter deemed to be internal to any of its members. The groups recent statements on Rakhine have focused on the importance of the repatriation of displaced persons to Myanmar and reconciliation among communities. But amid the international condemnation, it appears to be taking a firmer stance. Balakrishnan said that if left to fester, the situation in Rakhine could lead to the spread of terrorism which would threaten Southeast Asia and beyond. They (the Myanmar government) do need to do the right thingfor all the vulnerable, defencsless and innocent victims, said Balakrishnan. In a recent interview, Malaysias Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad criticized Myanmars de facto leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi over her handling of the Rohingya crisis, saying, We dont really support her anymore. Sasna Tsrer armed group members Pavel Manukyan and Armen Bilyan said that they went on hunger strike. "Particularly in connection with my precautionary measure [of custody], today I declare in court Im going on hunger strike as a means of fighting," The group's leader Manukyan said, adding that he also refuses all types of medical aid until the precautionary measure of custody implemented against him is commuted. Another Sasna Tsrer member Armen Bilyan said he also joins the hunger strike, News.am reported. Defendants Pavel Manukyan, Armen Bilyan, and Smbat Barseghyan are still in custody in connection with the criminal case involving the ten-member Sasna Tsrer armed group. Earlier, the precautionary measure of custody that was implemented for the seven other defendants was commuted, and they were released from custody on the basis of personal pledges by several MPs. The Sasna Tsrer armed group had taken over a police patrol regiment building in Yerevan, held hostages, but surrendered in July 2016. Three police officers were killed during the two-week standoff. News Mystery Disease Continues to Claim Cattle in Rakhine Buffalo carcasses lie in a shallow pool of water in Minbya Township, Rakhine State. / Facebook SITTWE, Rakhine State More buffalo have died in recent days of unknown causes in the Oh Pyin Htaung village tract of Minbya Township, Rakhine State, bringing the death toll to over 60 since late last month. Local villagers have reported nine more deaths after more than 50 buffalo died of unknown causes in the second week of September while out to pasture in the Arakan Mountains. Nearly 40 buffalo went missing at the same time, and it is not yet clear whether they were stolen or also died. Locals still have no idea what is causing the deaths or whether it is something that can spread to other animals or humans. One more buffalo of mine died today. So far three have died. I have no idea what disease caused their deaths. Once they got sick their bellies became bloated. Some died within hours and some died the following day, Ko Tun Tun Win, an Oh Pyin Htaung resident, told The Irrawaddy by phone. Locals also reported similar symptoms among buffalo on some of the farms in the village tract. It is a serious cause for concern that buffalo are dying in large numbers. Farmers in my village are planning to sell their buffalo for fear that they might also be infected, Maung Ni Che, another Oh Pyin Htaung resident, told The Irrawaddy. Locals say symptoms also include breathing difficulty, lumps in the throat and constipation, and that buffalo have continued to die even after being given the vaccine recommended by the Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department. The department visited the affected areas on Sept. 23 and confirmed 46 deaths at the time. Samples from the dead animals and surrounding land and water sources were sent to Yangon for testing, said U Chit Oo Lwin, who heads the townships Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department. The lab test results are not out yet, but we suspect that they died of a throat disease, he told The Irrawaddy, adding that the symptoms were similar to those of hemorrhagic septicemia, an acute infection that can cause pneumonia. Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko. News Sagaing Govt Cracking Down on Illegal Farm Workers and Pesticides, Minister Says A checkpoint in Muse on the Myanmar-China border, through which watermelons, melons and many other commodities are exported to China. / Zaw Zaw / The Irrawaddy MANDALAYAt least 38 foreigners working illegally on fruit farms in Sagaing were deported in fiscal 2017-18, the divisional minister of agriculture, livestock and irrigation said on Wednesday. The minister made the comment while answering questions during a session of the regional parliament in Monywa regarding the issue of foreigners working illegally on watermelon and melon plantations, and about the use of illegally imported pesticides and fertilizer. In fiscal 2017-18 there were at least 38 foreigners, most of them Chinese, who did not have valid visas, or did not have [appropriate visas for employment] and were deported. One was sued under the Immigration Law, minister U Kam Zamohn told The Irrawaddy. The minister added that two agricultural companies operating in Sagaing Division were also sued under the Agriculture Law for using pesticides and fertilizer imported illegally from China. He did not disclose the names of the companies. The pesticides and fertilizer used on those plantations are not officially recognized by the ministry. In some cases, they over-used the fertilizers. We seized them and sued the companies under the Agriculture Law in order to protect consumers and farmers, U Kam Zamohn said. Sagaing Division has more than 31,000 acres of watermelon and melon plantations. The fruit is mainly exported to China. According to U Aung Kyaw, a local lawmaker who raised the issue of illegal foreign workers on Sagaing plantations, about a dozen foreign companies working in the region have brought workers from China illegally. They were also responsible for overusing the unrecognized pesticides and fertilizers, and the practice had affected the health of local farmers, he said. The lawmaker urged authorities to take legal action against illegal foreign workers and to stop the use of illegal pesticides and fertilizers. The minister explained that the regional government and the Immigration Department were handling the issue, adding that the Immigration Department did regular checks on foreigners working in the region. Our ministry is also doing regular checks and has issued warnings to sellers of agricultural supplies not to sell illegal pesticides and fertilizers, the minister added. Sagaing is Myanmars main region for growing watermelons and melons. Most of the produce grown in the region is exported to China via the Mandalay-Muse-Ruli inland border trade route. In the past, melon plantations were worked by local farmers. As the export of melons to China has increased in the past five years, foreign agricultural companies, especially from China, have set up joint ventures with local farmers, offering them financial and technical support, and providing pesticides and fertilizers. News Workers Strike for 44th Day at Chinese-Owned Garment Factory Striking employees of the Fu Yuen Garment Company march in Yangons Dagon Seikkan Industrial Zone on Oct. 2, 2018. The banner reads, Fu Yuen garment factory workers on strike. / Aung Kyaw Htet / The Irrawaddy CHIANG MAI, ThailandMore than 200 workers from the Fu Yuen garment factory in Yangon Regions Dagon Seikkan Industrial Zone continued their sit-in strike for a 44th day on Wednesday, vowing to stand firm in their demands for labor rights and the reinstatement of fired colleagues. The workers walked out of the Chinese-owned factory to protest the dismissal of 30 coworkers, said Ma Thet Htar Swe, a leader of the factorys labor union who was among the terminated employees. All of the expelled workers are members of the factorys labor union. The factory fired them after accusing them of instigating protests to demand better working conditions, and of violating their employment contracts (ECs). On Aug. 14, hundreds of workers staged a protest to demand a number of rights, including that overtime be fair and paid on time, and urging the company to hire enough workers so that their workload would be reasonable. A week later, on Aug. 20, the 30 workers were terminated. The strike began the following day. The factorys announcement on Aug. 15 stated that the 30 terminated workers violated the terms and conditions prescribed in the EC but added that they had been compensated. The factory also said in a letter that productivity at the plant had declined due to an increase in the workers minimum wage in May, while the owners faced greater expenditures. It said, In the long run, [the factory] will become increasingly unprofitable and it will run at a loss. The factory said the workers do not work in line with the EC. The workers have taken many days off without pay. Some workers are inciting others to protest. The factory finally agreed to seven of the workers nine demands; however their demand that the fired workers be re-employed has not been settled, said Ma Thet Htar Swe. She started working at the factory a month after it was founded in October 2014, but was targeted for organizing the labor rights movement, she said. The workers have also sent letters seeking help from the regional and Union governments since Aug. 29, but Ma Thet Htar Swe said they had received no response until a month later. On Oct. 2, lawmakers representing Dagon Seikkan Township met with the striking workers and company representatives in an effort to settle the dispute, but the talks were unsuccessful. U Zin Min Tun, a regional lawmaker, said the township authorities and the National League for Democracys Labor Affairs Committee are trying their best to resolve the dispute. But he added that the labor arbitration court is ultimately responsible for resolving disputes between workers and employers. We want our jobs back, as we were expelled for taking part in the labor union and leading the calls for workers rights, Ma Thet Htar Swe told The Irrawaddy on Wednesday. She said the workers want the factory to acknowledge their rights, adding that they wouldnt seek new employment at other factories. She said they would keep up the protest until all of our demands are reached. Fu Yuen garment factorys products include womens wear, childrens wear and jackets for export. Their products have been consigned to the Lidl US Trading Company and Joules USA Inc. in the U.S. through Singapore port until August this year. Jamal Khashoggi, a Saudi journalist and Washington Post columnist who has previously criticized the kingdoms leadership, disappeared after visiting the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul, according to multiple reports. According to his fiancee, the 59-year-old journalist entered the consulate at about 1 p.m. and did not exit at 5 p.m. after the consulate had officially closed. By midnight, there was still no sign of him, according to Turan Kislakci, a friend of Khashoggi's who was also waiting outside the consulate with Khashoggi's fiancee. "He entered at 1 p.m. and hasn't surfaced since then. I have no media statements to make at this point, but I have contacted Turkish authorities for help," Khashoggi's fiancee told the Middle East Eye by phone. "We have talked with some Turkish authorities and the police. I think 100 percent that he is inside," the Washington Post cited her as saying. The US State Department said the Middle East Eye through email that it is aware of Khashoggi's disappearance. According to reports by The New Arab and Al-Jazeera, Turkish police are already investigating Khashoggi's disappearance. Security forces allegedly entered the Saudi consulate on Tuesday to search for him. Wednesday, October 3rd, 2018 (11:09 am) - Score 1,416 The Governments National Infrastructure Commission has announced that they intend to conduct an examination of regulation in the UK energy, telecoms and water industries. The study will look at what future changes may be required to meet future needs, as well as any impact upon competition and investment. The work is designed to build on the NICs National Infrastructure Assessment, which was published in July 2018 and among other things called for nationwide coverage of full fibre (FTTP) broadband by 2033 and for a related National Broadband Plan to be devised by Spring 2019. Since then the Government has published new proposals as part of their recent Future Telecoms Infrastructure Review (here) this echoed a lot of what the NIC wanted and that was followed by an announcement from Ofcom concerning the related regulatory changes (here). The aim of both was to help boost investment and support for future 5G mobile and full fibre (FTTP) ultrafast broadband ISP networks. Suffice to say that the NIC will be taking a deeper look at the regulatory side of all this and will focus on four key aspects. Scope of the NIC Study * What future changes will affect the regulated sectors: The National Infrastructure Assessment identified the UKs infrastructure needs to 2050. The study will aim to set out the key drivers of change over the coming decades. * Competition and innovation: Whether the regulatory model encourages where appropriate, sufficient competition and innovation to support efficient delivery of infrastructure. * Regulatory consistency: How regulators work together and collaborate on cross-cutting challenges and significant infrastructure projects. * How Government and regulators work together: How Government can effectively deliver its objectives in these regulated sectors, while continuing to safeguard the independence of the regulators. The NIC promises to consider the full range of potential implications of any changes and will pay particular attention to the need to keep bills affordable and to ensure vulnerable customers are protected (e.g. the elderly, unemployed, disabled and those on low incomes). Sir John Armitt, Chairman of the NIC, said: Whether its turning on a light, taking a phone call or even making a cup of tea, we are dependent on our energy, telecoms and water industries to go about our daily lives. The regulators are vital in ensuring we as consumers are treated fairly. But if the UK is to be a world leader in the latest technologies, we need a system of regulation that allows companies to be innovative, without being penalised for it. Our new study will examine how to strike the right balance and how companies and regulators alike can be ready to adapt to changes in future, while at the same time keeping bills affordable and protecting vulnerable customers. The NIC plans to publish their report on Regulation during Spring 2019, which may or may not recommend that Ofcom make further changes. On the other hand we arent expecting anything too dramatic, not least because on a lot of issues the Government and NIC have tended to be fairly closely aligned in their thinking. October 2, 2018 Tori Parks, Marketing Career Path Intern POCATELLO Idaho State Universitys October Career Path Intern of the Month is junior Lucas Rosa, an intern with the College of Technology, pursuing a degree in the Unmanned Aerial Systems Associate of Applied Science program. Recently, the Idaho State Police developed an Unmanned Aerial System (drone) program to allow troopers to use aerial imagery in crash reconstruction, crime scene processing and other incidents affecting public safety. As the fledgling Idaho State Police UAS program was one of a kind in Idaho, it became necessary for the Idaho State Police to consult with the ISU UAS program for guidance. During this development, ISP had an opportunity to partner with the College of Technology and ISUs Career Path Internship program. During this process, Rosa was selected as a CPI student intern and has been involved in many facets of the ISP UAS Program. When I applied for this position I didnt think I would get it as there were a lot of applicants for the internship, Rosa said. I am really glad that I got the internship as I am going to apply to the Idaho State Police force after I graduate, and this internship helped confirm that this is really what I want to do. Rosa is also assisting the Idaho State Police in their application for the Federal Aviation Administrations Certificate of Authorization. This certificate will give special permission to the Idaho State Police to ensure that drones can be operated when necessary, such as at night in search and rescue missions. Rosa has also helped research the various types of drones to help the ISP procure the best equipment for the job. Lucas quickly immersed himself in the continued development of the ISP UAS Program, said Ed Gygli, intelligence analyst for the Idaho Criminal Intelligence Center, a part of the Idaho State Police and Rosas supervisor. With Lucas involvement, I am confident FAA will grant this waiver. In addition, Lucas has been involved in 3D aerial imagery of crash scenes which is required for the ISP crash reconstruction process. Flying drones for the Idaho State Police can be, at times, very somber. Most often, when the ISP UAS program is called upon, it requires aerial imagery of fatal auto crashes and crime scenes where lives have been lost, Gygli said. Lucas understands this and performs his role at ISP professionally and with dignity. He continues to demonstrate his ability to help this new program flourish and be on the cutting edge of Idaho public safety aerial imaging. In his spare time, Rosa enjoys hunting, fishing and enjoying Idahos beautiful wilderness. Australias StartCon says it's "on the hunt for the next global hotbeds of tech innovation and the startups emerging from them", with Silicon Valley "not on the list". As Silicon Valley becomes embroiled in "growing controversy" around some of its biggest names, Australias largest start-up and growth conference, StartCon, reports "searching the entire Asia-Pacific region for the next global tech hotspots and their most promising start-ups". These start-ups will then be given the chance to compete for $1 million at StartCon in Sydney on 30 November and 1 December. StartCon chief executive Cheryl Mack said: Silicon Valleys reign as the worlds top tech start-up hub looks tenuous at best. "The barriers to entry for young companies in Silicon Valley are skyrocketing because of soaring costs, and long-time locals fed up with the Valley are departing for greener, fresher pastures." Mack continued: Indeed, Peter Thiel, who co-founded PayPal with Tesla and SpaceX chief Elon Musk, left Silicon Valley after becoming dissatisfied with the culture in the Valley, among other reasons. In a way, Silicon Valley has become a victim of its own success. It has been the birthplace of some of the worlds biggest tech companies, many of which are now sucking up much of the local tech talent, leaving few resources for emerging startups that are just starting out. Its no surprise that other regions around the world are emerging as new hotbeds of innovation, taking on some of the best parts of the Silicon Valley model and turning them into something entirely their own. Cities across the entire Asia-Pacific region, for example, are now vibrant breeding grounds for start-ups. These days, start-up founders are more likely to choose places like Singapore, Hong Kong, Sydney, Shanghai, Brisbane, Seoul, or Melbourne as home. This is why StartCon is going to over a dozen cities in the Asia-Pacific region to uncover the best, most innovative startups these places have to offer, and perhaps find the next Silicon Valley in the process." We're told that the theme for this years premier StartCon event in Sydney, "Silicon Valley is dead. Long live Silicon Valley!", will "contrast the tremendous change that has swept through the tech sectors traditional Californian hotbed, and shine a light on the emerging startup hotspots throughout the region". StartCon 2018 also notes that will "host a major pitch competition at which the very best start-ups from across Asia-Pacific, a region with a population base of over four billion people, come together to battle it out for a $1 million investment from Australian Venture Capital firm, Right Click Capital". As the largest event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, StartCon 2018 proudly boasts that it "showcase over 60 speakers who will appear in person in Sydney to share their insights with more than 4000 attendees. "There will also be expert workshops, a tech expo, a blockchain hackathon, prizes, masterclasses, prizes a FinTech stage and an artificial intelligence (AI) stage." As has been the case for the last two StartCons, the 2018 edition will once again be held at Sydneys Randwick Racecourse. Tickets can be bought here. More information on the keynote speakers can be seen here. Just some of the StartCon 2018 Speakers include: Krista Seiden, Google: Krista Seidens is a product manager and the analytics evangelist for the Google Analytics team. A leader in the digital analytics industry with nearly a decade of experience specifically in digital marketing, analytics, and product management. She has led analytics and optimisation at companies such as Adobe, The Apollo Group, and Google. Laura Behrens, Shippo: Laura Behrens is founder and chief executive of Shippo, which lets ecommerce businesses, marketplaces, and platforms connect to multiple shipping carriers around the world from one application programming interface and dashboard, lowering the barriers to shipping for businesses around the world. Alana Podreciks, McKinsey: Alana Podreciks is head of McKinseys New Ventures Platform, which takes a venture capital approach to identify, fund and incubate start-ups inside McKinsey, while leveraging the consulting firms access to leading companies and go-to-market channels to help them move rapidly from startup to scale-up. IBM Watson: IBM Watson is a cognitive computing system which uses artificial intelligence to analyse high volumes of data and process information more like a human than a computer. It does this by understanding natural language, generating hypotheses based on evidence and learning as it goes. In 2011, IBM Watson competed on the Jeopardy! gameshow, and won. Regional Victorian industry group ICT Geelong has been relaunched, as the group estimates the region will need to fill more than 750 IT positions over the next five years, an increase of about 10% annually over current staff numbers. Until now and its relaunch, ICT Geelong has been focused on meeting State Government funding requirements for the delivery of innovation with a startup culture in mind. We are now committed to a change in direction to identify shortages in ICT skills in the region and to develop those skills, ICT Geelong chairman Jason Steinwedel said. Additionally we are expanding our role to industry and commerce by identifying opportunities and assisting in the implementation of information technologies for economic growth. This will see ICT Geelong becoming a forum for the regions CIOs representing commerce, manufacturing, education, health and local government. The relaunch of ICT Geelong follows a series of meetings of the regions tech community, despite the end of the Victorian Governments Skilling the Bay funding program. Steinwedel said: Feedback from a very successful series of meetups and allied events has helped redefine our charter." The events were convened by Stephanie Beitzel whose contract as chief executive finished with the end of the funding program. Much of what we see as our new charter emerged from the work undertaken by Stephanie Beitzel in convening events and in engaging with individual technical professionals. We are indebted to her for this feedback and contribution to our future, Steinwedel said. This feedback, combined with the industrial and commercial growth in the Geelong region in the past two to three years, has redefined what ICT Geelong must do to become recognised as the regions peak body for information and communications technology. Singapore telco Singtel has launched VIA, its cross-border mobile payment alliance, with regional associate AIS and Kasikornbank, Thailands largest digital bank. The deal will see Singtel and AIS now offer QR code-based mobile payments through mobile wallets, Singtel Dash, AIS GLOBAL Pay and Rabbit Line Pay, across both Singapore and Thailand. VIA is designed to provide a secure way for travellers to use their mobile wallets to pay in their home currencies at competitive exchange rates when in Singapore and Thailand and to free them from the hassle of carrying foreign currency and incurring cross-border transaction fees. The mobile wallets can be used at all merchants displaying the VIA brand and over 1.6 million Kasikornbank merchants displaying the Thai QR code. Singtel says the VIA alliance is the first initiative of its kind to connect both telco and non-telco mobile wallets across borders to create a region-wide payment network that will enable consumers to use their local mobile wallets when travelling. The Singtel Group also says it will progressively expand the alliance to include other regional associates Airtel in India, Globe in the Philippines, Telkomsel in Indonesia working within each countrys regulations, and non-telcos including Chinas Ping An eWallet, owned by Ping An Insurance Group. "This is a game changer for the Singtel Group and the region. The VIA alliance is aimed at unifying Asias fragmented payments scene by connecting different mobile wallet systems across the region, says Arthur Lang, chief executive of Singtels International Group. As more people travel around the region, we want them to be able to enjoy the ease and familiarity of using their local mobile wallets abroad. VIA will enhance the payment experience for millions of consumers including our groups customer base of more than 700 million. We see a tremendous opportunity to drive the adoption of mobile payments which supports ASEANs push towards financial inclusion and vision of a single digital market. Singtel says that in 2017, there were more than 80 million tourist arrivals across the Singtel Group markets in Asia, and of this, over 1.5 million visitors travelled between Singapore and Thailand, with the numbers are expected to grow steadily. AIS chief executive Somchai Lertsutiwong said AIS was collaborating with Singtel and Kasikornbank to proactively drive the cashless society forward. We place great importance on the continued development of services to meet the growing demand for mobile payments. This partnership offers Thais a seamless digital payment experience at home and abroad, and adds a new dimension which will take the cashless society to the next level. We are extremely excited to give Dash customers the ability to use their wallets in Thailand and soon, even more countries in the region, said Yuen Kuan Moon, chief executive, Consumer Singapore, Singtel. Now, our customers not only stay connected with our mobile roaming service when overseas, they also have a roaming wallet which they can use to make purchases while abroad. The best thing is with VIA, they dont need to change the way they use Dash at home or abroad. We will continue to forge strategic partnerships and innovate the Dash wallet to make it the most inclusive all-in-one mobile wallet for our customers. When the big data movement started it was mostly focused on batch processing. Distributed data storage and querying tools like MapReduce, Hive, and Pig were all designed to process data in batches rather than continuously. Businesses would run multiple jobs every night to extract data from a database, then analyze, transform, and eventually store the data. More recently enterprises have discovered the power of analyzing and processing data and events as they happen, not just once every few hours. Most traditional messaging systems don't scale up to handle big data in realtime, however. So engineers at LinkedIn built and open-sourced Apache Kafka: a distributed messaging framework that meets the demands of big data by scaling on commodity hardware. Over the past few years, Apache Kafka has emerged to solve a variety of use cases. In the simplest case, it could be a simple buffer for storing application logs. Combined with a technology like Spark Streaming, it can be used to track data changes and take action on that data before saving it to a final destination. Kafka's predictive mode makes it a powerful tool for detecting fraud, such as checking the validity of a credit card transaction when it happens, and not waiting for batch processing hours later. This two-part tutorial introduces Kafka, starting with how to install and run it in your development environment. You'll get an overview of Kafka's architecture, followed by an introduction to developing an out-of-the-box Apache Kafka messaging system. Finally, you'll build a custom producer/consumer application that sends and consumes messages via a Kafka server. In the second half of the tutorial you'll learn how to partition and group messages, and how to control which messages a Kafka consumer will consume. What is Apache Kafka? Apache Kafka is messaging system built to scale for big data. Similar to Apache ActiveMQ or RabbitMq, Kafka enables applications built on different platforms to communicate via asynchronous message passing. But Kafka differs from these more traditional messaging systems in key ways: It's designed to scale horizontally, by adding more commodity servers. It provides much higher throughput for both producer and consumer processes. It can be used to support both batch and real-time use cases. It doesn't support JMS, Java's message-oriented middleware API. Apache Kafka's architecture Before we explore Kafka's architecture, you should know its basic terminology: A producer is process that can publish a message to a topic. a consumer is a process that can subscribe to one or more topics and consume messages published to topics. A topic category is the name of the feed to which messages are published. A broker is a process running on single machine. A cluster is a group of brokers working together. Figure 1. Architecture of a Kafka message system Apache Kafka's architecture is very simple, which can result in better performance and throughput in some systems. Every topic in Kafka is like a simple log file. When a producer publishes a message, the Kafka server appends it to the end of the log file for its given topic. The server also assigns an offset, which is a number used to permanently identify each message. As the number of messages grows, the value of each offset increases; for example if the producer publishes three messages the first one might get an offset of 1, the second an offset of 2, and the third an offset of 3. When the Kafka consumer first starts, it will send a pull request to the server, asking to retrieve any messages for a particular topic with an offset value higher than 0. The server will check the log file for that topic and return the three new messages. The consumer will process the messages, then send a request for messages with an offset higher than 3, and so on. In Kafka, the client is responsible for remembering the offset count and retrieving messages.The Kafka server doesn't track or manage message consumption. By default, a Kafka server will keep a message for seven days. A background thread in the server checks and deletes messages that are seven days or older. A consumer can access messages as long as they are on the server. It can read a message multiple times, and even read messages in reverse order of receipt. But if the consumer fails to retrieve the message before the seven days are up, it will miss that message. Kafka benchmarks Production use by LinkedIn and other enterprises has shown that with proper configuration Apache Kafka is capable of processing hundreds of gigabytes of data daily. In 2011, three LinkedIn engineers used benchmark testing to demonstrate that Kafka could achieve much higher throughput than ActiveMQ and RabbitMQ. Apache Kafka quick setup and demo We'll build a custom application in this tutorial, but let's start by installing and testing a Kafka instance with an out-of-the-box producer and consumer. Visit the Kafka download page to install the most recent version (0.9 as of this writing). Extract the binaries into a software/kafka folder. For the current version it's software/kafka_2.11-0.9.0.0 . Change your current directory to point to the new folder. Start the Zookeeper server by executing the command: bin/zookeeper-server-start.sh config/zookeeper.properties . Start the Kafka server by executing: bin/kafka-server-start.sh config/server.properties . Create a test topic that you can use for testing: bin/kafka-topics.sh --create --zookeeper localhost:2181 --replication-factor 1 --partitions 1 --topic javaworld . Start a simple console consumer that can consume messages published to a given topic, such as javaworld : bin/kafka-console-consumer.sh --zookeeper localhost:2181 --topic javaworld --from-beginning . Start up a simple producer console that can publish messages to the test topic: bin/kafka-console-producer.sh --broker-list localhost:9092 --topic javaworld . Try typing one or two messages into the producer console. Your messages should show in the consumer console. Example application with Apache Kafka You've seen how Apache Kafka works out of the box. Next, let's develop a custom producer/consumer application. The producer will retrieve user input from the console and send each new line as a message to a Kafka server. The consumer will retrieve messages for a given topic and print them to the console. The producer and consumer components in this case are your own implementations of kafka-console-producer.sh and kafka-console-consumer.sh . Let's start by creating a Producer.java class. This client class contains logic to read user input from the console and send that input as a message to the Kafka server. We configure the producer by creating an object from the java.util.Properties class and setting its properties. The ProducerConfig class defines all the different properties available, but Kafka's default values are sufficient for most uses. For the default config we only need to set three mandatory properties: BOOTSTRAP_SERVERS_CONFIG KEY_SERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG VALUE_SERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG BOOTSTRAP_SERVERS_CONFIG (bootstrap.servers) sets a list of host:port pairs used for establishing the initial connections to the Kakfa cluster in the host1:port1,host2:port2,... format. Even if we have more than one broker in our Kafka cluster, we only need to specify the value of the first broker's host:port . The Kafka client will use this value to make a discover call on the broker, which will return a list of all the brokers in the cluster. It's a good idea to specify more than one broker in the BOOTSTRAP_SERVERS_CONFIG , so that if that first broker is down the client will be able to try other brokers. The Kafka server expects messages in byte[] key, byte[] value format. Rather than converting every key and value, Kafka's client-side library permits us to use friendlier types like String and int for sending messages. The library will convert these to the appropriate type. For example, the sample app doesn't have a message-specific key, so we'll use null for the key. For the value we'll use a String , which is the data entered by the user on the console. To configure the message key, we set a value of KEY_SERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG on the org.apache.kafka.common.serialization.ByteArraySerializer . This works because null doesn't need to be converted into byte[] . For the message value, we set VALUE_SERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG on the org.apache.kafka.common.serialization.StringSerializer , because that class knows how to convert a String into a byte[] . Custom key/value objects Similar to StringSerializer , Kafka provides serializers for other primitives such as int and long . In order to use a custom object for our key or value, we would need to create a class implementing org.apache.kafka.common.serialization.Serializer . We could then add logic to serialize the class into byte[] . We would also have to use a corresponding deserializer in our consumer code. The Kafka producer After filling the Properties class with the necessary configuration properties, we can use it to create an object of KafkaProducer . Whenever we want to send a message to the Kafka server after that, we'll create an object of ProducerRecord and call the KafkaProducer 's send() method with that record to send the message. The ProducerRecord takes two parameters: the name of the topic to which message should be published, and the actual message. Don't forget to call the Producer.close() method when you're done using the producer: Listing 1. KafkaProducer public class Producer { private static Scanner in; public static void main(String[] argv)throws Exception { if (argv.length != 1) { System.err.println("Please specify 1 parameters "); System.exit(-1); } String topicName = argv[0]; in = new Scanner(System.in); System.out.println("Enter message(type exit to quit)"); //Configure the Producer Properties configProperties = new Properties(); configProperties.put(ProducerConfig.BOOTSTRAP_SERVERS_CONFIG,"localhost:9092"); configProperties.put(ProducerConfig.KEY_SERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG,"org.apache.kafka.common.serialization.ByteArraySerializer"); configProperties.put(ProducerConfig.VALUE_SERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG,"org.apache.kafka.common.serialization.StringSerializer"); org.apache.kafka.clients.producer.Producer producer = new KafkaProducer(configProperties); String line = in.nextLine(); while(!line.equals("exit")) { ProducerRecord rec = new ProducerRecord(topicName, line); producer.send(rec); line = in.nextLine(); } in.close(); producer.close(); } } Configuring the message consumer Next we'll create a simple consumer that subscribes to a topic. Whenever a new message is published to the topic, it will read that message and print it to the console. The consumer code is quite similar to the producer code. We start by creating an object of java.util.Properties , setting its consumer-specific properties, and then using it to create a new object of KafkaConsumer . The ConsumerConfig class defines all the properties that we can set. There are just four mandatory properties: BOOTSTRAP_SERVERS_CONFIG (bootstrap.servers) KEY_DESERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG (key.deserializer) VALUE_DESERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG (value.deserializer) GROUP_ID_CONFIG (bootstrap.servers) Just as we did for the producer class, we'll use BOOTSTRAP_SERVERS_CONFIG to configure the host/port pairs for the consumer class. This config lets us establish the initial connections to the Kakfa cluster in the host1:port1,host2:port2,... format. As I previously noted, the Kafka server expects messages in byte[] key and byte[] value formats, and has its own implementation for serializing different types into byte[] . Just as we did with the producer, on the consumer side we'll have to use a custom deserializer to convert byte[] back into the appropriate type. In the case of the example application, we know the producer is using ByteArraySerializer for the key and StringSerializer for the value. On the client side we therefore need to use org.apache.kafka.common.serialization.ByteArrayDeserializer for the key and org.apache.kafka.common.serialization.StringDeserializer for the value. Setting those classes as values for KEY_DESERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG and VALUE_DESERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG will enable the consumer to deserialize byte[] encoded types sent by the producer. In the first half of this JavaWorld introduction to Apache Kafka, you developed a couple of small-scale producer/consumer applications using Kafka. From these exercises you should be familiar with the basics of the Apache Kafka messaging system. In this second half, you'll learn how to use partitions to distribute load and scale your application horizontally, handling up to millions of messages per day. You'll also learn how Kafka uses message offsets to track and manage complex message processing, and how to protect your Apache Kafka messaging system against failure should a consumer go down. We'll develop the example application from Part 1 for both publish-subscribe and point-to-point use cases. Partitions in Apache Kafka Topics in Kafka can be subdivided into partitions. For example, while creating a topic named Demo, you might configure it to have three partitions. The server would create three log files, one for each of the demo partitions. When a producer published a message to the topic, it would assign a partition ID for that message. The server would then append the message to the log file for that partition only. If you then started two consumers, the server might assign partitions 1 and 2 to the first consumer, and partition 3 to the second consumer. Each consumer would read only from its assigned partitions. You can see the Demo topic configured for three partitions in Figure 1. Figure 1. A partitioned topic in Apache Kafka To expand the scenario, imagine a Kafka cluster with two brokers, housed in two machines. When you partitioned the demo topic, you would configure it to have two partitions and two replicas. For this type of configuration, the Kafka server would assign the two partitions to the two brokers in your cluster. Each broker would be the leader for one of the partitions. When a producer published a message, it would go to the partition leader. The leader would take the message and append it to the log file on the local machine. The second broker would passively replicate that commit log to its own machine. If the partition leader went down, the second broker would become the new leader and start serving client requests. In the same way, when a consumer sent a request to a partition, that request would go first to the partition leader, which would return the requested messages. Benefits of partitioning Consider the benefits of partitioning a Kafka-based messaging system: Scalability: In a system with just one partition, messages published to a topic are stored in a log file, which exists on a single machine. The number of messages for a topic must fit into a single commit log file, and the size of messages stored can never be more than that machine's disk space. Partitioning a topic lets you scale your system by storing messages on different machines in a cluster. If you wanted to store 30 gigabytes (GB) of messages for the Demo topic, for instance, you could build a Kafka cluster of three machines, each with 10 GB of disk space. Then you would configure the topic to have three partitions. Server-load balancing: Having multiple partitions lets you spread message requests across brokers. For example, If you had a topic that processed 1 million messages per second, you could divide it into 100 partitions and add 100 brokers to your cluster. Each broker would be the leader for single partition, responsible for responding to just 10,000 client requests per second. Consumer-load balancing: Similar to server-load balancing, hosting multiple consumers on different machine lets you spread the consumer load. Let's say you wanted to consume 1 million messages per second from a topic with 100 partitions. You could create 100 consumers and run them in parallel. The Kafka server would assign one partition to each of the consumers, and each consumer would process 10,000 messages in parallel. Since Kafka assigns each partition to only one consumer, within the partition each message would be consumed in order. Two ways to partition The producer is responsible for deciding what partition a message will go to. The producer has two options for controlling this assignment: Custom partitioner : You can create a class implementing the org.apache.kafka.clients.producer.Partitioner interface. This custom Partitioner will implement the business logic to decide where messages are sent. : You can create a class implementing the interface. This custom will implement the business logic to decide where messages are sent. DefaultPartitioner : If you don't create a custom partitioner class, then by default the org.apache.kafka.clients.producer.internals.DefaultPartitioner class will be used. The default partitioner is good enough for most cases, providing three options: Manual : When you create a ProducerRecord , use the overloaded constructor new ProducerRecord(topicName, partitionId,messageKey,message) to specify a partition ID. Hashing(Locality sensitive) : When you create a ProducerRecord , specify a messageKey , by calling new ProducerRecord(topicName,messageKey,message) . DefaultPartitioner will use the hash of the key to ensure that all messages for the same key go to same producer. This is the easiest and most common approach. Spraying(Random Load Balancing) : If you don't want to control which partition messages go to, simply call new ProducerRecord(topicName, message) to create your ProducerRecord . In this case the partitioner will send messages to all the partitions in round-robin fashion, ensuring a balanced server load. : If you don't create a custom partitioner class, then by default the class will be used. The default partitioner is good enough for most cases, providing three options: Partitioning an Apache Kafka application For the simple producer/consumer example in Part 1, we used a DefaultPartitioner . Now we'll try creating a custom partitioner instead. For this example, let's assume that we have a retail site that consumers can use to order products anywhere in the world. Based on usage, we know that most consumers are in either the United States or India. We want to partition our application to send orders from the US or India to their own respective consumers, while orders from anywhere else will go to a third consumer. To start, we'll create a CountryPartitioner that implements the org.apache.kafka.clients.producer.Partitioner interface. We must implement the following methods: Kafka will call configure() when we initialize the Partitioner class, with a Map of configuration properties. This method initializes functions specific to the application's business logic, such as connecting to a database. In this case we want a fairly generic partitioner that takes countryName as a property. We can then use configProperties.put("partitions.0","USA") to map the flow of messages to partitions. In the future we can use this format to change which countries get their own partition. The Producer API calls partition() once for every message. In this case we'll use it to read the message and parse the name of the country from the message. If the name of the country is in the countryToPartitionMap , it will return partitionId stored in the Map . If not, it will hash the value of the country and use it to calculate which partition it should go to. We call close() to shut down the partitioner. Using this method ensures that any resources acquired during initialization are cleaned up during shutdown. Note that when Kafka calls configure() , the Kafka producer will pass all the properties that we've configured for the producer to the Partitioner class. It is essential that we read only those properties that start with partitions. , parse them to get the partitionId , and store the ID in countryToPartitionMap . Below is our custom implementation of the Partitioner interface. Listing 1. CountryPartitioner public class CountryPartitioner implements Partitioner { private static Map countryToPartitionMap; public void configure(Map configs) { System.out.println("Inside CountryPartitioner.configure " + configs); countryToPartitionMap = new HashMap(); for(Map.Entry entry: configs.entrySet()){ if(entry.getKey().startsWith("partitions.")){ String keyName = entry.getKey(); String value = (String)entry.getValue(); System.out.println( keyName.substring(11)); int paritionId = Integer.parseInt(keyName.substring(11)); countryToPartitionMap.put(value,paritionId); } } } public int partition(String topic, Object key, byte[] keyBytes, Object value, byte[] valueBytes, Cluster cluster) { List partitions = cluster.availablePartitionsForTopic(topic); String valueStr = (String)value; String countryName = ((String) value).split(":")[0]; if(countryToPartitionMap.containsKey(countryName)){ //If the country is mapped to particular partition return it return countryToPartitionMap.get(countryName); }else { //If no country is mapped to particular partition distribute between remaining partitions int noOfPartitions = cluster.topics().size(); return value.hashCode()%noOfPartitions + countryToPartitionMap.size() ; } } public void close() {} } The Producer class in Listing 2 (below) is very similar to our simple producer from Part 1, with two changes marked in bold: We set a config property with a key equal to the value of ProducerConfig.PARTITIONER_CLASS_CONFIG , which matches the fully qualified name of our CountryPartitioner class. We also set countryName to partitionId , thus mapping the properties that we want to pass to CountryPartitioner . We pass an instance of a class implementing the org.apache.kafka.clients.producer.Callback interface as a second argument to the producer.send() method. The Kafka client will call its onCompletion() method once a message is successfully published, attaching a RecordMetadata object. We'll be able to use this object to find out which partition a message was sent to, as well as the offset assigned to the published message. Listing 2. A partitioned producer public class Producer { private static Scanner in; public static void main(String[] argv)throws Exception { if (argv.length != 1) { System.err.println("Please specify 1 parameters "); System.exit(-1); } String topicName = argv[0]; in = new Scanner(System.in); System.out.println("Enter message(type exit to quit)"); //Configure the Producer Properties configProperties = new Properties(); configProperties.put(ProducerConfig.BOOTSTRAP_SERVERS_CONFIG,"localhost:9092"); configProperties.put(ProducerConfig.KEY_SERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG,"org.apache.kafka.common.serialization.ByteArraySerializer"); configProperties.put(ProducerConfig.VALUE_SERIALIZER_CLASS_CONFIG,"org.apache.kafka.common.serialization.StringSerializer"); configProperties.put(ProducerConfig.PARTITIONER_CLASS_CONFIG,CountryPartitioner.class.getCanonicalName()); configProperties.put("partition.1","USA"); configProperties.put("partition.2","India"); org.apache.kafka.clients.producer.Producer producer = new KafkaProducer(configProperties); String line = in.nextLine(); while(!line.equals("exit")) { ProducerRecord rec = new ProducerRecord(topicName, null, line); producer.send(rec, new Callback() { public void onCompletion(RecordMetadata metadata, Exception exception) { System.out.println("Message sent to topic ->" + metadata.topic()+ " ,parition->" + metadata.partition() +" stored at offset->" + metadata.offset()); ; } }); line = in.nextLine(); } in.close(); producer.close(); } } Assigning partitions to consumers The Kafka server guarantees that a partition is assigned to only one consumer, thereby guaranteeing the order of message consumption. You can manually assign a partition or have it assigned automatically. If your business logic demands more control, then you'll need to manually assign partitions. In this case you would use KafkaConsumer.assign() to pass a list of partitions that each consumer was interested in to the Kakfa server. Having partitions assigned automatically is the default and most common choice. In this case, the Kafka server will assign a partition to each consumer, and will reassign partitions to scale for new consumers. Say you're creating a new topic with three partitions. When you start the first consumer for the new topic, Kafka will assign all three partitions to the same consumer. If you then start a second consumer, Kafka will reassign all the partitions, assigning one partition to the first consumer and the remaining two partitions to the second consumer. If you add a third consumer, Kafka will reassign the partitions again, so that each consumer is assigned a single partition. Finally, if you start fourth and fifth consumers, then three of the consumers will have an assigned partition, but the others won't receive any messages. If one of the initial three partitions goes down, Kafka will use the same partitioning logic to reassign that consumer's partition to one of the additional consumers. Russia had delivered a total of 49 units of military equipment to Syria within the framework of the supplies of S-300 air defense systems, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said at President Vladimir Putins meeting with members of Russia's Security Council. "We have completed the delivery of S-300 systems, which includes 49 units of equipment radars, naturally, basic target acquisition systems, command posts and four launchers," Sputnik cited Shoigu as saying. Speaking further, the minister said that Russian experts would teach Syrian personnel to operate S-300 air defense systems within three months. "As for the unified air defense control system, we have started to deliver the equipment and will fully complete all work on preparation and training of the crews, creation of a single network by October 20," Shoigu said. Iran called for talks with France to clear "misunderstanding" over an alleged bomb plot targeting an exiled opposition group near Paris. "If there is a misunderstanding... about a thing that does not exist, be it a conspiracy by others or a mistake, we can sit down and talk about it," Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi told AFP in an interview. The only way to overcome the issue was through "the art of diplomacy," he said. "We know of no other way." French authorities yesterday accused Iran's intelligence ministry of being behind a foiled plot to bomb a meeting of the People's Mujahedeen of Iran (MEK), according to a French diplomatic source. France also announced it was freezing the assets of two suspected Iranian intelligence operatives and those belonging to Iran's ministry of intelligence and security. Ghasemi denied all these accusations "completely and forcefully." The Turkish parliament ratified on Wednesday a motion to extend the state's authority to launch cross-border military operations in northern Iraq and Syria for another year, Daily Sabah reported. The motion, which was submitted by the Turkish cabinet, had previously allowed the Turkish military to carry out cross-border operations from Oct. 31, 2017 until Oct. 30, 2018. It was last extended on Sept. 23, 2017. The decree, renewed annually since 2014, allows Turkey to send troops over its southern border if developments in Iraq and Syria pose threat to Turkey's national security. It also allows foreign forces to use Turkish airbases and Turkish territory against the same threats. The United States says it is canceling a decades-old friendship treaty with Iran after Tehran cited it in an international court case against Washington's sanctions policy. "I'm announcing that the US is terminating the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters on October 3, referring to the year of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty reported. The announcement came after the top UN court ordered the United States to ease sanctions it reimposed on Iran following the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear accord between Tehran and world powers earlier this year. The 1955 Treaty of Amity, Economic Relations, and Consular Rights called for "friendly relations" between Iran and the United States, encouraged mutual trade and investment, regulated diplomatic ties, and granted the International Court of Justice (ICJ) jurisdiction over disputes. Register with JOC.com and receive 5 free pieces of content for the first thirty days. After thirty days, you will receive 3 pieces of content and after sixty days you will receive 1 piece of content. To receive full access, Subscribe Today . You can also subscribe to our daily newsletter. Register The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued the joint Donlin Gold Record of Decision (ROD), marking the completion of a multi-year federal environmental review process NOVAGOLD sold its 50% interest in Galore Creek to Newmont Mining Corporation (Newmont) for total consideration of up to $275 million With approximately $166 million in cash and term deposits as of August 31, 2018, NOVAGOLD is in an excellent financial position to continue advancing its Donlin Gold project up the value chain VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 02, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC. (NYSE American, TSX: NG) today released its 2018 third quarter financial results and updates for the Donlin Gold project in Alaska, which NOVAGOLD (the Company) owns equally with Barrick Gold Corporation (Barrick). Details of the financial results for the third quarter ended August 31, 2018 are presented in the consolidated financial statements and quarterly report filed on Form 10-Q with the SEC that is available on the Company's website at www.novagold.com, on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. All amounts are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated and all resource and reserve estimates are shown on a 100% project basis. During the third quarter 2018 and to date, NOVAGOLD achieved the following milestones: Donlin Gold received a Record of Decision and key Federal and State Permits with successful completion of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process: The final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was released and Notice of Availability published on April 27, 2018 and the joint ROD was issued on August 13, 2018 by the Corps and BLM Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 10/404 (wetlands) permit and BLM Offer to Lease for pipeline right-of-way were also issued The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) special permit was issued on June 5, 2018 Alaska state permits were secured in parallel with the federal permits: The State air quality permit and APDES water discharge permit have been issued Title 16 fish habitat permits were received on August 30, 2018 The State issued the CWA Section 401 certification that the Corps Section 404 permit complies with state water quality standards NOVAGOLD sold its 50% share of Galore Creek to Newmont for a total consideration of up to $275 million: The Company already received $100 million in July; it is scheduled to receive an additional $75 million no later than July 27, 2021 and another $25 million no later than July 27, 2023; if a construction decision for development of Galore Creek is made, the Company would receive an additional $75 million NOVAGOLD and its partner Barrick continued to carry out optimization work to improve capital efficiencies at Donlin Gold and enhance the projects execution plan with the objective of updating the 2011 feasibility study The Company conducted a site tour for a diverse group of financial representatives and hosted a dinner with Alaska Governor Walker, key State agency commissioners and executives of Calista and The Kuskokwim Corporation (TKC) The Company carried out several important initiatives in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region near Donlin Gold: Collaborated with our Native Corporation partners to visit multiple villages to provide updates on Donlin Golds recent achievements Participated in an environmental initiative that identified and removed hazardous waste from six Kuskokwim River villages Supported educational opportunities for more than 100 students Presidents Message After more than six years of diligent work focused on the strategy of taking NOVAGOLDs assets up the value chain, I couldnt be more pleased with the major milestones the Company achieved in the third quarter. From the receipt of the Donlin Gold ROD, as well as multiple federal and state permits, to the successful sale of our share of the Galore Creek project to Newmont, we have delivered on significant strategic milestones that were laid out for the Company when I joined in 2012. We now have a unique project permitted for development in Alaska, one of the most business-friendly jurisdictions in the world, which welcomes socially and environmentally responsible mine development. With its significant size, excellent grade and outstanding exploration potential, we believe that Donlin Gold has the potential to become a pacesetter in the precious metals mining industry for decades to come. Donlin Gold In looking back at the multi-year NEPA review and federal permitting activities for the Donlin Gold project, Im proud to say that it was a very thorough and transparent environmental review process, where stakeholders had opportunities to engage and make meaningful contributions throughout the process. The Corps, BLM and other cooperating agencies successfully navigated this complex process with support from Donlin Gold, Calista and TKC, whose unwavering commitment to the project has been truly remarkable. With the final EIS released and Notice of Availability published in April, which was followed by the issuance of a joint Corps and BLM ROD in August, the receipt of the wetlands permit, the issuance of the Offer to Lease for the federal portion of the pipeline right-of-way, and the receipt of the PHMSA special permit in June, we can proudly say that the third quarter was perhaps the most important in the Companys recent history. To celebrate the occasion of achieving these important milestones, the Corps, BLM, Calista, TKC, Barrick and NOVAGOLD had an official ROD signing ceremony that took place in Anchorage. During this event, the Corps and BLM celebrated a notable administrative first: two federal agencies issuing a joint ROD under Executive Order 13807. The ROD served as the foundation for issuance of the federal permits required for us to build a technically, environmentally, socially and financially responsible and sustainable operation. It was equally encouraging to see the Alaska state permitting agencies working in parallel with their federal counterparts. Four key state permitting milestones have been completed, including issuance of the state air quality, APDES water discharge, and fish habitat permits as well as state certification that the Corps CWA Section 404 permit complies with Alaskas water quality standards. In addition, the public comment periods closed for the draft waste management permit, and the closure and reclamation plan approval, which are expected to be issued by the first quarter 2019 along with the state portion of the pipeline right-of-way. For the first time in the history of the Donlin Gold project, with key federal and state permits in hand, the timeline for development is completely within the project owners control. We have moved Donlin Gold up the value chain and we look forward to the next chapter of further project advancements through optimization, technical enhancements and ultimately development of what we expect will become one of the best gold mining operations in the world. With approximately 39 million ounces of gold in the measured and indicated resource categories grading 2.24 grams per tonne1 and exceptional exploration potential along the eight-kilometer gold mineralized belt, located in Alaska, a state that welcomes responsible resource development, Donlin Gold has the potential to offer all its stakeholders incredible opportunities for many years to come. Galore Creek Sale The sale of our share of the Galore Creek project to Newmont in exchange for $200 million in guaranteed payments and an additional $75 million payable upon approval of the project construction, establishes a solid financial foundation on which NOVAGOLD will continue to advance its flagship Donlin Gold project toward a construction decision. For us, it was a momentous occasion. In August, I was honored to participate in the ownership transition ceremony with the Tahltan Nation, Teck and Newmont at the project site in British Columbia. We are delighted with the outcome and wish Newmont and Teck great success with the future development of the Galore Creek project. Path Forward As one of the worlds largest and highest-grade permitted undeveloped open-pit gold projects, Donlin Gold is well positioned to benefit from rising gold prices. Receipt of the ROD, as well as federal and state permits, represents a very important milestone in its development. Now, with the scoping-level optimization work largely wrapped-up, Barrick and NOVAGOLD can concentrate on integrating efforts from the optimization work into a study that should serve as a basis for an updated project development plan. Stakeholder Engagement We are proud of the extensive engagement efforts with our shareholders and local stakeholders in the Yukon-Kuskokwim (Y-K) region. In the third quarter, Calista and TKC, our Native Corporation partners on the Donlin Gold project, have been conducting village meetings throughout the Y-K region to highlight the benefits of the project and respond to questions around permitting and project activities. The Green Star initiative, a successful environmental waste removal program, was launched in six middle Kuskokwim villages. The Green Star project works with local residents to identify, classify, package, and remove hazardous and other wastes via barges. An environmental workshop also took place in one the villages closer to the project site. Supporting educational programs and initiatives is another core focus for the Company, including: scholarship programs for Calista and TKC students; EXCEL Alaska, a non-profit that provides supplemental academic, career and technical education for rural youth and young adults across Alaska; training local residents as spill responders; purchasing new training equipment for a technical school in the Y-K region; and supporting career and job fairs in the Y-K region. Financial Strength At the end of the third quarter, NOVAGOLD had a very healthy treasury of $166 million in cash and term deposits. With an additional $100 million we expect to receive from Newmont in the next five years, the Company should not require any new funding before making a construction decision for Donlin Gold. NOVAGOLDs Board and management team is truly a patient and dedicated group that has been steadfast in executing on the Companys strategy, while having our shareholders and project stakeholders top of mind. The success in achieving these critical milestones would not have been possible without our team and partners, Barrick Gold, Donlin Gold, Calista and TKC, including the commitment and dedication from federal and state government professionals, as well as the cooperating agencies who contributed to the permitting process from the beginning. We are also very thankful for our Boards guidance as we navigated the permitting process and sale of Galore Creek. Gregory A. Lang President & CEO Financial Results in thousands of U.S. dollars, except for per share amounts Three months ended August 31, 2018 $ Three months ended August 31, 2017 $ Nine months ended August 31, 2018 $ Nine months ended August 31, 2017 $ General and administrative expense (1) 4,408 4,646 13,989 16,163 Share of losses Donlin Gold 2,514 3,165 7,260 7,794 Total operating expenses 6,922 7,811 21,249 23,957 Loss from operations (6,922) (7,811) (21,249) (23,957) Other expense (1,112) (1,903) (3,839) (3,836) Income tax expense (9) (67) (154) (218) Net loss from continuing operations (8,043) (9,781) (25,242) (28,011) Net loss from discontinued operations (80,582) (612) (81,229) (987) Net loss (88,625) (10,393) (106,471) (28,998) Net loss per share, basic and diluted Continuing operations (0.02) (0.03) (0.08) (0.09) Discontinued operations (0.25) (0.25) (0.27) (0.03) (0.33) (0.09) At At August 31, 2018 $ Nov 30, 2017 $ Cash and term deposits 165,956 83,954 Total assets 263,162 398,869 Total liabilities 97,639 114,840 (1) Includes share-based compensation expense of $1,920 and $2,141 in the third quarter of 2018 and 2017, respectively, and $5,811 and $8,115 in the first nine months of 2018 and 2017, respectively. For the third quarter ended August 31, 2018, loss from operations decreased from $7.8 million in 2017 to $6.9 million in 2018 due to reduced permitting costs at Donlin Gold and lower general and administrative costs. Net loss from continuing operations decreased from $9.8 million ($0.03 per share) in the third quarter 2017 to $8.0 million ($0.02 per share) in the same period in 2018, primarily due to lower operating losses, higher interest income and lower foreign exchange loss offset by higher interest expense on the promissory note payable to Barrick. Net loss from discontinued operations of $80.6 million ($0.25 per share) in the third quarter 2018 results primarily from the loss on the sale of Galore Creek, net of $80.0 million in tax. The net book value of the assets disposed exceeded the net proceeds by $105.3 million and was partially offset by the reclassification of cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments of $13.8 million and a net deferred tax recovery of $11.5 million. For the nine months ended August 31, 2018, the loss from operations decreased from $24.0 million in 2017 to $21.2 million in 2018 due to lower general and administrative expense, and lower project expense at Donlin Gold. General and administrative expense decreased by $2.2 million, primarily due to lower share-based compensation costs for stock options and Performance Share Units (PSU) compared to the prior year. The Company extended the vesting period for new stock option grants and half of the PSU grants issued in the first quarter of 2018 to three years and eliminated the individual performance multiplier in the formula for calculating long-term equity compensation which had the potential to increase long-term equity incentive grants above the target amount. Net loss from continuing operations decreased from $28.0 million ($0.09 per share) in the first nine months of fiscal 2017 to $25.2 million ($0.08 per share) during the same period in 2018, primarily due to the reduction in share-based compensation. Lower operating costs in the current period were partially offset by a $0.9 million increase in interest expense on the promissory note payable to Barrick. Net loss from discontinued operations of $81.2 million ($0.25 per share) in the first nine months of fiscal 2018 resulted primarily from the loss on the sale of Galore Creek, net of tax. Liquidity and Capital Resources In the first nine months of 2018, total cash and term deposits increased by $82.0 million due to net proceeds of $99.3 million from the sale of Galore Creek, partially offset by $7.8 million used to fund Donlin Gold, $8.0 million for administrative activities, and $1.5 million to fund Galore Creek, prior to the sale. Cash used in operating activities decreased by $0.2 million in the third quarter 2018 due to increased interest income and changes in working capital. Cash used to fund Donlin Gold was $0.7 million lower than the prior year quarter due to lower permitting costs and no drill program in 2018. Cash proceeds of $100.0 million from the sale of Galore Creek were invested in term deposits. The term deposits are denominated in U.S. dollars and are held at Canadian chartered banks. Cash provided from investing activities of discontinued operations include $99.3 million in net cash proceeds on the sale of Galore Creek. For the first nine months of fiscal year 2018, cash used in operating activities increased by $0.5 million, primarily due to changes in working capital. Cash used to fund Donlin Gold was $0.2 million lower than the prior year period. The gross cash proceeds of $100.0 million from the sale of Galore Creek were invested in term deposits. No cash was used in financing activities in the first nine months of 2018. Cash provided from investing activities of discontinued operations include $99.3 million in net cash proceeds on the sale of Galore Creek, partially offset by project funding prior to the sale. NOVAGOLDs cash and term deposits are sufficient to fund anticipated technical work at the Donlin Gold project in addition to general and administrative costs. 2018 Outlook NOVAGOLD now expects to spend approximately $23.5 million in 2018, $4.5 million less than what was originally anticipated at the beginning of the year due to a reduction in permitting expenditures and optimization work at the Donlin Gold project, and the sale of Galore Creek mid-year. The revised forecast comprises $11 million for general and administrative costs, $11 million to fund our share of expenditures at the Donlin Gold project, and $1.5 million previously provided for the Galore Creek project. NOVAGOLD remains focused on four primary goals in 2018: advance the Donlin Gold project toward a construction/ production decision; maintain a favorable reputation of the Company and its project among shareholders, Native entities and other stakeholders; promote a strong safety culture maintaining a zero lost-time accident record at all project and office locations; and safeguard the treasury. Conference Call & Webcast Details NOVAGOLDs conference call and webcast, to discuss these results, will take place October 3, 2018 at 8:00 am PT (11:00 am ET). The webcast and conference call-in details are provided below. Webcast: www.novagold.com/investors/events/ North American callers: 1-855-475-2134 International callers: 1-661-378-9964 Conference ID: 4794546 The webcast will be archived on NOVAGOLDs website for one year. To request a transcript of the call, please email us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. About the Donlin Gold Project Donlin Gold is located in Alaska, the second largest gold-producing state in the U.S. With approximately 39 million ounces of gold grading 2.24 grams per tonne in the measured and indicated resource categories (100 percent basis),2 it hosts one of the largest and highest-grade undeveloped open pit gold endowments in the world. According to the Second Updated Feasibility Study (as defined below), once in production, Donlin Gold has the potential to produce, on average, more than one million ounces per year over a 27-year mine life on a 100% basis. The Donlin Gold project has substantial exploration potential beyond the designed mine footprint which currently covers only three kilometers of an approximately eight-kilometer long gold-bearing trend. Current activities at Donlin Gold are focused on optimization work and community outreach. Donlin Gold LLC is an Alaska-based company owned equally by NovaGold Resources Alaska, Inc. (NOVAGOLD) and Barrick Gold U.S. Inc. (Barrick), which are wholly owned subsidiaries of NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC., and Barrick Gold Corporation, respectively. Scientific and Technical Information Some scientific and technical information contained herein with respect to the Donlin Gold project is derived from the Donlin Creek Gold Project Alaska, USA NI 43-101 Technical Report on Second Updated Feasibility Study prepared by AMEC for NOVAGOLD with an effective date of November 18, 2011, as amended January 20, 2012 (the Second Updated Feasibility Study). Kirk Hanson, P.E., Technical Director, Open Pit Mining, North America, (AMEC, Reno), and Gordon Seibel, R.M. SME, Principal Geologist, (AMEC, Reno) are the Qualified Persons responsible for the preparation of the independent technical report, each of whom are independent qualified persons as defined in NI 43-101. Clifford Krall, P.E., who is the Mine Engineering Manager for NOVAGOLD and a qualified person under NI 43-101, has approved and verified the scientific and technical information related to the Donlin Gold project contained in this press release. NOVAGOLD Contacts: Melanie Hennessey Vice President, Corporate Communications Allison Pettit Investor Relations Manager 604-669-6227 or 1-866-669-6227 Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively forward-looking statements) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as expects, anticipates, believes, intends, estimates, potential, possible, and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results will, may, could, would or should occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on several opinions, estimates and assumptions that management of NOVAGOLD considered appropriate and reasonable as of the date such statements are made, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding the advancement of optimization studies at Donlin Gold; potential opportunities to enhance or maximize the value of Donlin Gold; the timing and likelihood of permits; opportunities to reduce capital outlays and improve project economics; the potential completion of an updated feasibility study on the project; mine life and production estimates at Donlin Gold; the potential development of Donlin Gold; perceived merit of properties; mineral reserve and resource estimates; work programs; capital expenditures; timelines; strategic plans; benefits of the Donlin Gold project and market prices for precious metals. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, intentions, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts but instead represent NOVAGOLDs management expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events or circumstances on the date the statements are made. NOVAGOLD assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations include the need to obtain additional permits and governmental approvals; the timing and likelihood of permits; the need for additional financing to explore and develop properties and availability of financing in the debt and capital markets; uncertainties involved in the interpretation of drilling results and geological tests and the estimation of reserves and resources; the need for continued cooperation between NOVAGOLD and Barrick for the continued exploration and development of the Donlin Gold property; the need for cooperation of government agencies and native groups in the development and operation of properties; risks of construction and mining projects such as accidents, equipment breakdowns, bad weather, non-compliance with environmental and permit requirements, unanticipated variation in geological structures, ore grades or recovery rates; unexpected cost increases, which could include significant increases in estimated capital and operating costs; fluctuations in metal prices and currency exchange rates; and other risk and uncertainties disclosed in reports and documents filed by NOVAGOLD with applicable securities regulatory authorities from time to time. The forward-looking statements contained herein reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections of NOVAGOLD on the date the statements are made. NOVAGOLD assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law. Cautionary Note to United States Investors This press release has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the securities laws in effect in Canada, which differ from the requirements of U.S. securities laws. Unless otherwise indicated, all resource and reserve estimates included in this press release have been prepared in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM)CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, adopted by the CIM Council, as amended (CIM Definition Standards). NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators which establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. Canadian standards, including NI 43-101, differ significantly from the requirements of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and resource and reserve information contained herein may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by U.S. companies. In particular, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the term "resource does not equate to the term "reserves. Under U.S. standards, mineralization may not be classified as a "reserve unless the determination has been made that the mineralization could be economically and legally produced or extracted at the time the reserve determination is made. The SEC's disclosure standards normally do not permit the inclusion of information concerning "measured mineral resources, "indicated mineral resources or "inferred mineral resources or other descriptions of the amount of mineralization in mineral deposits that do not constitute "reserves by U.S. standards in documents filed with the SEC. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of measured or indicated resources will ever be converted into reserves. Investors should also understand that "inferred mineral resources have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. Under Canadian rules, estimated "inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies except in rare cases. Disclosure of "contained ounces in a resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations; however, the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute "reserves by SEC standards as in-place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measures. The requirements of NI 43-101 for identification of "reserves are also not the same as those of the SEC, and reserves reported by NOVAGOLD in compliance with NI 43-101 may not qualify as "reserves under SEC standards. Donlin Gold does not have known reserves, as defined under SEC Industry Guide 7. Accordingly, information concerning mineral deposits set forth herein may not be comparable with information made public by companies that report in accordance with U.S. standards. 1 Donlin Gold data as per the second updated feasibility study effective November 18, 2011, as amended January 20, 2012. Donlin Gold measured resources of 8 Mt grading 2.52 g/t and indicated resources of 534 Mt grading 2.24 g/t, inclusive of proven reserves of 8 Mt grading 2.32 g/t and probable reserves of 497 Mt grading 2.08 g/t. 2 Donlin Gold data as per the second updated feasibility study effective November 18, 2011, as amended January 20, 2012 . Donlin Gold measured resources of approximately 8 Mt grading 2.52 g/t and indicated resources of approximately 534 Mt grading 2.24 g/t, each on a 100% basis. Mineral resources have been estimated in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101). VANCOUVER, BC / TheNewswire / October 2, 2018 - Northern Lights Resources Corp. (the "Company") is pleased to announce that further to its news release of February 23, 2018 it has completed a first tranche of a non-brokered private placement financing of 11,005,000 units of the Company (the "Units") at a price of $0.10 per Unit, for total gross proceeds of $1,100,500 (the "Offering"). Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company (a "Share") and one full share purchase warrant (each a "Warrant"). Each Warrant is exercisable into one Share at a price of $0.20 per Share for 24 months following the closing date, subject to an accelerated expiry if the closing price of the Shares is equal to or greater than $0.30 for twenty (20) consecutive trading days at any time following four months after the date of closing. The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Offering to fund exploration activities at its mineral projects in Nevada (Medicine Springs) and Mongolia (Del Undur), and for general working capital purposes. In connection with the first tranche of the Offering, the Company paid aggregate compensation to eligible finders (the "Finders") of $60,040 and 604,040 Shares in the Company. The Units, Finders' Shares and underlying securities are subject to the usual four months and a day hold period in accordance with applicable securities legislation and CSE requirements. Mr. Albert (Rick) Timcke, President and the Chairman of the Company states "The closing of the first-tranche of the private placement is pivotal to the Company in meeting the conditional listing approval granted to the Company by the Canadian Stock Exchange ("CSE"). The Company will begin trading on the CSE following the final review and approval of the Company's Listing Statement." About Northern Lights Resources Corp Northern Lights Resources Corp is a growth oriented exploration and development company with two advanced exploration projects: Medicine Springs Project - The Company has entered into an agreement to acquire a 100% interest in the Medicine Springs Project, a prospective zinc-lead-silver property in southeastern Elko County, Nevada. The Medicine Springs property consists of 149 unpatented mineral claims (1,206 hectares) and is an advanced exploration project with extensive drilling and many significant silver-zinc-lead intercepts; and, Del Undur Project - The Company has entered into an agreement to acquire a 100% interest in Del Undur polymetallic and titanium exploration project located in in northeastern Mongolia. Upon closing of the Offering, the Company will trade under the symbol "NLR" on the CSE. This and other Company news releases can be viewed at www.northernlightsresources.com and at www.sedar.com. For further information, please contact: Albert Timcke, Executive Chairman and President Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Tel: +1 604 608 6163 Or Jason Bahnsen, Chief Executive Officer Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Tel: +1 604 608 6163 CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the terms and conditions of the proposed private placement; use of funds; the business and operations of the Company after the proposed closing of the Offering; and the relisting of the Company's shares on the CSE. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; delay or failure to receive board, shareholder or regulatory approvals; and the uncertainties surrounding the mineral exploration industry. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2018 / Midnight Sun Mining Corp. (the ''Company'' or ''Midnight Sun'') (TSX-V: MMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Wayne Moorhouse as Chief Operating Officer (''COO'') with immediate effect. In the newly created COO position, he will be responsible for the efficient advancement of the Solwezi copper-cobalt property located in Zambia through the design, implementation and oversight of the Company's business operations. Over the course of his career, Mr. Moorhouse has held senior management positions with several mining and civil construction companies. He has a proven track record at an operating level with experience covering all stages of a project's life, from grass roots exploration through feasibility and engineering studies, strategic planning, construction, mine expansion and operations. From 2012 to September 2013, Mr. Moorhouse held the position of CFO for Roxgold Inc where he managed projects in support of a large-scale exploration program and preliminary economic assessment. From 2003 to 2011, Mr. Moorhouse held senior management positions with Silvermex Resources Inc, including President of La Guitarra Compania Minera, where he oversaw strategic growth initiatives at the La Guitarra Mine including large scale exploration program, a mine expansion feasibility study, mill updates, and mine reopening and expansion. Prior to Silvermex Mr. Moorhouse project managed several large civil construction projects in Western Canada. Since June of 2012, Mr. Moorhouse has served as Midnight Sun's CFO while working on other exploration and mining projects outside the Company. Because of the additional COO responsibilities added to his continuing CFO duties, Mr. Moorhouse has resigned from other outside positions to focus on Midnight Sun and the Solwezi project. EXPLORATION UPDATE Midnight Sun is awaiting the results and initial interpretation of the Versatile Time-Domain Electromagnetic (VTEM) survey and final results from its Phase 1 drilling program. Material results will be publicly disclosed when they are received. ABOUT MIDNIGHT SUN MINING Midnight Sun has earned a 60% interest in the Solwezi Licences with the potential to acquire the remaining 40% through unmatched property expenditures. The Solwezi Licences are comprised of two individual exploration licences totalling 506 square kilometres, situated in the North-Western Province of Zambia, adjacent to First Quantum's Kansanshi Mine; Africa's largest copper mining complex, on the prolific Zambia-Congo Copper Belt. Led by experienced directors and talented management, Midnight Sun aims to further explore the impressive mineralization and anomalies that have been discovered on the Solwezi Licences. Midnight Sun Mining Corp. trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol MMA. Please also refer to the Company's previous news releases as well as the Company's presentation on its website at: www.midnightsunmining.com. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF MIDNIGHT SUN MINING CORP. Brett A. Richards - President and Chief Executive Officer For Further Information Contact: Brett A. Richards President and Chief Executive Officer Tel: +1 905 449 1500 Al Fabbro Lead Director Tel: +1 604 351 8850 NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEW RELEASE. VANCOUVER, Oct. 3, 2018 /CNW/ - Orca Gold Inc. (TSXV: ORG) ("Orca" or the "Company") is pleased to announce an inferred maiden mineral resource estimate ("Mineral Resource Estimate") at the Kone Prospect, on the Morondo Licence, and reports that it has closed its previously disclosed acquisition from Kinross (see Company news release on February 1, 2017) of a highly prospective land package of 2,268km2 in Cote d'Ivoire (Figure 1). HIGHLIGHTS The Cote d'Ivoire Exploration portfolio includes the Morondo Licence, first explored by Red Back Mining Inc. in 2010. The initial work by Red Back has been followed up by Orca leading to the discovery and definition of the Kone Prospect; The initial work by has been followed up by Orca leading to the discovery and definition of the Kone Prospect; The Mineral Resource Estimate for the Kone Prospect comprises 34.1Mt grading 1.1g/t for 1.206Moz of gold at a 0.70g/t cut-off grade ; ; The Kone Prospect is characterized by the significant width of the mineralisation with true widths generally in excess of 150m ( Figures 2 and 3 ); ( ); The Mineral Resource Estimate extends over a strike length of 900m and to a maximum vertical depth of 260m ; ; The project is at early stage of evaluation and the drilling database contains 115 RC and 2 diamond holes for only 18,172m of drilling and considerable scope remains for further exploration; and considerable scope remains for further exploration; The acquisition from Kinross comprises a land package of approximately 2,268km2 positioned on highly prospective structural trends related to known gold mineralization and forms a strategic portfolio for Orca's expansion in West Africa (Figure 1). DETAILS Mineral Resource Estimate at Kone Prospect The Mineral Resource Estimate was undertaken by MPR Geological Consultants of Perth, Australia ("MPR") who estimated mineral resources using Multiple Indicator Kriging ("MIK") based on mineralised domains interpreted by MPR. The Mineral Resource Estimate is shown below at a range of cut-off grades and by oxidation category at cut of grade of 0.70g/t: Table 1: Kone Mineral Resource Estimate as at October 3, 2018 Deposit Cut Off Inferred Mt Au g/t Au Koz Kone Prospect 0.3 83.3 0.7 1,875 0.4 67.3 0.8 1,731 0.5 54.4 0.9 1,574 0.6 43.4 1.0 1,395 0.7 34.1 1.1 1,206 0.8 26.5 1.2 1,022 0.9 20.5 1.3 857 1.0 15.8 1.4 711 Table 2: Kone Mineral Resource Estimate at 0.7g/t cut off by Oxidation Category Deposit Oxidation Inferred Mt Au g/t Au Koz Kone Prospect Oxide 2.8 1.1 99 Transition 2.0 1.1 67 Fresh 29.4 1.1 1,028 Total 34.1 1.1 1,206 Notes: The Mineral Resource has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum "CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves" (CIM, 2014). Numbers may not add up due to rounding. Drilling to date at Kone totals 17,644m of reverse circulation ("RC") drilling in 115 holes and 528m of diamond drilling in two holes. Kone was discovered by Red Back Mining in 2010 with 4,284 m of shallow RC drilling completed. Following ministerial approval of Orca's acquisition of the project from Kinross (see Company news release on November 6, 2017), Orca has completed 13,888m of RC and diamond drilling including 13,728m in the resource area. The mineralised package at Kone is up to 220m in true width, dipping 50-55 to the north west. Within this wide mineralised domain drilling has defined a series of lower angle (25-30), higher grade structures (Figure 3) that form a core of mineralisation grading over 1.5g/t. Mineralisation is hosted within a variably foliated diorite intrusive and is associated with biotite alteration, minor silicification, disseminated pyrite and quartz-carbonate-pyrite-chalcopyrite veining. The Mineral Resource Estimate has been estimated within the central part of a 2.6km long gold in soil anomaly, which has been tested by 100m and closer spaced drill traverses (Figure 3). Mineralisation remains open with several low-grade intercepts received from first pass drilling to the north and little or no exploration carried out to the south. The southern margin of the resource is marked by one of the best intercepts received from Morondo in hole MRC069 which returned 41m grading 2.11g/t. Notable Intercepts from Orca's drilling at Kone: MRC053: 94m at 1.12g/t MRC059: 108m at 0.94g/t MRC064: 79m at 0.90g/t MRC069: 41m at 2.11g/t MRC071: 85m at 0.70g/t MRC076: 39m at 0.98g/t MRC081B: 51m at 0.89g/t MRC094: 43m at 1.41g/t MRC098: 78m at 1.19g/t MRC110: 68m at 1.49g/t MRC111: 67m at 1.86g/t MRC114: 49m at 1.69g/t A full listing of Orca's drill results from Kone is included in Appendix 1 below. Metallurgical Test Work Three composite core samples were submitted to ALS Ammtec in Perth, Australia for preliminary test work. Comminution test work confirmed the moderate to soft nature of the rock with BWI values of 3.0, 5.2 and 10.7kwh/t for oxide, transition and fresh rock, respectively. Whole rock bottle roll leach tests at -75m grind returned recoveries of 97.8%, 96.5% and 91.4% for oxide, transition and fresh rock, respectively, with low reagent consumptions of 0.20kg/t CN and 1.0kg/t Lime. Heap leach tests (coarse rock bottle rolls) returned recoveries of 95.5% for oxide, 79.1% for transition and 57.4% for fresh using a 5mm crush size. Preliminary Economic Assessment The Mineral Resource Estimate and first phase metallurgical test work will form the basis for a Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") which is expected to be completed in early 2019. Other Permits The Company is also exploring on the other issued permits in its Cote d'Ivoire portfolio including the Korokaha North permit that lies adjacent to the east of Randgold's Tongon mining lease. Previous exploration on this permit by Red Back identified anomalies in soil geochemical sampling that will now be followed up by Orca. Commenting on the new Mineral Resource Estimate, Hugh Stuart, President and Director of Orca Gold, said "It's very satisfying to be able to report the maiden resource for the Morondo Licence. With only a small amount of drilling in a short period of time, we managed to define a resource exceeding the 1Moz mark. Mineralisation at the Kone Prospect is remarkably coherent with significant mineralised widths, is easily amenable to open pit mining and shows good leach characteristics. Importantly, there is still a lot of work to do at Kone as it remains open, it is not yet fully explored or understood and is part of a growing mineralised trend that could provide further opportunity. We look forward to continuing exploration to increase this initial resource while at the same time preparing a PEA on the Kone Prospect." Closing of Kinross Transaction The Company has now completed its acquisition from Kinross Gold Corporation (TSX:K) (NYSE:KGC) ("Kinross"), of all of the issued and outstanding common shares of the two wholly-owned Kinross exploration subsidiaries located and operating in Cote d'Ivoire. The acquisition is pursuant to a share purchase agreement among Orca, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Orca and two wholly-owned subsidiaries of Kinross (the "Kinross Agreement") (see Company news release on February 1, 2017), which collectively owned and had rights to the Morondo, Korokaha North and Bassawa exploration licences, and four exploration licence applications (collectively, the "Cote d'Ivoire Exploration Assets"). The Cote d'Ivoire Exploration Assets are comprised of: the Morondo licence, located north of the town of Seguela, the Korokaha North licence and Korokaha South application which lie immediately adjacent to the east of Randgold's Tongon Mine; the Bassawa licence and Satama application, located on the southern extension of the Hounde Belt; and, the Zuenoula Ouest and Zuenoula Est applications, located 40km north west of Perseus's Yaoure project (Figure 1). Under the terms of the Kinross Agreement, Orca has: issued 10,633,169 common shares to Kinross , which are subject to a statutory hold period of four months, representing approximately 5.2% of the post-acquisition share capital of Orca; , which are subject to a statutory hold period of four months, representing approximately 5.2% of the post-acquisition share capital of Orca; granted to Kinross a right to maintain a 5% equity interest in the Company through participation in Orca's future equity financings, provided that at the applicable time Kinross holds a minimum equity interest in Orca of 5%; a right to maintain a 5% equity interest in the Company through participation in Orca's future equity financings, provided that at the applicable time holds a minimum equity interest in Orca of 5%; granted to Kinross a two-year right of first refusal on any subsequent disposal of the Cote d'Ivoire Exploration Assets, in whole or in part, by Orca; a two-year right of first refusal on any subsequent disposal of the Cote d'Ivoire Exploration Assets, in whole or in part, by Orca; granted to Kinross a right of first offer on the Cote d'Ivoire Exploration Assets to take effect upon the expiry of the two-year right of first refusal; and a right of first offer on the Cote d'Ivoire Exploration Assets to take effect upon the expiry of the two-year right of first refusal; and granted to Kinross a 2% net smelter return royalty on products mined and sold from the Exploration Assets. In respect of the closing with Kinross, Richard Clark, CEO of Orca said: "The Company is very pleased to have achieved the completion of its agreement with Kinross on the Cote d'Ivoire Exploration Assets. I wish to take this opportunity to thank Kinross for its cooperation in achieving this end after a long administrative process. With Kinross' consent we have been able to commence exploration in Cote d'Ivoire before an official closing of the transaction. This has resulted in the early discovery of an exciting initial resource on the Morondo Licence, clearly demonstrating how prospective this strategic land package is." About Orca Gold Inc. Orca Gold Inc. (TSX-V: ORG) is a Canadian resource company focused on exploration and development opportunities in Africa, where it is currently focused on the development of its 70%-owned Block 14 Gold project in the Republic of the Sudan. The Company has an experienced board of directors and management team and a strong balance sheet. The technical contents of this release have been approved by Hugh Stuart, BSc, MSc, a Qualified Person pursuant to National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Stuart is the President of the Company, a Chartered Geologist and a Fellow of the Geological Society of London. The Mineral Resource estimate was carried out by Jonathon Abbott of MPR Geological Consultants of Perth, Western Australia who is considered to be independent of Orca Gold Inc. Mr. Abbott is a member in good standing of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the commodity, style of mineralization under consideration and activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43101. Mr. Abbott consents to the inclusion in this press release of the information, in the form and context in which it appears. Samples used for the results described herein have been prepared and analyzed by fire assay using a 50-gram charge at the Bureau Veritas facility in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire and at the Intertek laboratory in Tarkwa, Ghana in compliance with industry standards. Field duplicate samples are taken and blanks and standards are added to every batch submitted. The Company will file a NI43-101 compliant Technical Report within 45 days of this release. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This press release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, including statements regarding Orca's (the "Company", the "Corporation", "we" or "our") plans and expectations relating to the Block 14 Gold Project ("Block 14") in northern Sudan and the Feasibility Study ("FS") currently being conducted by the Corporation. These statements relate to analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management. Statements concerning mineral resource estimates may also be deemed to constitute "forward-looking statements" to the extent that they involve estimates of the mineralization that will be encountered if the property is developed. The assumptions, risk and uncertainties outlined below are non-exhaustive. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results, performance or achievements of the Corporation, or industry results, may vary materially from those described in this presentation. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, identified by words or phrases such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives", "potential", "possible" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events, conditions or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information are not guarantees of future performance and are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management at the date the statements are made including without limitation, assumptions about the following (the "Forward-Looking Factors"): future prices of gold and other metals; successful exploration, development, and production of Block 14; the timing and completion of the FS; performance of contractual obligations by counterparties; operating conditions; political stability; obtaining governmental approvals and financing on time; financial projections and budgets; obtaining licenses and permits; government regulation of the Corporation's mining activities; environmental risks and expenses; market conditions; the securities market; price volatility of the Corporation's securities; currency exchange rates; foreign mining tax regimes; insurance and uninsured risks; financial projections and results; competition; availability of sufficient capital, infrastructure, equipment and labour; dependence on key personnel; dependence on outside parties; conflicts of interest; litigation; land title issues; local community issues; estimation of mineral resources; realization of mineral resources; timing and amount of estimated future production; the life of Block 14; reclamation obligations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated; and anticipated costs and expenditures and our ability to achieve the Corporation's goals. While we consider these assumptions to be reasonable, the assumptions are inherently subject to significant business, social, economic, political, regulatory, competitive and other risks and uncertainties, contingencies, many of which are based on factors and events that are not within the control of the Corporation and there is no assurance they will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors relating to the Forward-Looking Factors above, and those factors disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Corporation's documents filed from time to time with the securities regulators in the provinces of Canada. In addition, a number of other factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Corporation to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information, and there is no assurance that the actual results, performance or achievements of the Corporation will be consistent with them. For further details, reference is made to the risk factors discussed or referred to in the Corporation's annual and interim management's discussion and analyses on file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities and available electronically on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. Although the Corporation has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements and forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events, results, performance or achievements not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Such forward-looking statements and information are made or given as at the date of this presentation and the Corporation disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Appendix 1: Orca 2017 - 2018 Morondo Drill Results in Full Hole From To Metres Au g/t Uncut MRC052 11 30 19 1.35 49 54 5 1.15 78 84 6 0.85 101 133 32 1.23 141 191 50 1.12 MRC053 36 43 7 1.71 57 151 94 1.12 168 173 5 1.10 181 185 4 0.61 MRC054 0 13 13 0.93 19 53 34 1.13 61 109 48 1.62 159 168 9 1.85 172 180 8 0.73 MRC055 0 27 27 1.02 36 78 42 1.24 133 140 7 1.11 MRC056 0 30 30 1.00 36 60 24 1.39 68 74 6 0.57 85 91 6 0.80 101 109 8 0.96 MRC057 90 104 14 0.73 111 146 35 1.09 MRC058 27 31 4 2.78 49 69 20 0.88 75 128 53 1.31 134 200 eoh 66 0.73 MRC059 0 25 25 1.56 37 145 108 0.94 MRC060 0 33 33 1.51 38 48 10 1.42 57 67 10 0.90 74 96 22 0.71 112 122 10 0.59 MRC061 1 42 41 0.66 55 79 24 0.61 MRC062 77 87 10 0.66 108 115 7 0.99 145 207 62 0.79 MRC063 76 117 41 0.84 132 170 eoh 38 1.00 MRC064 6 85 79 0.90 MRC065 176 185 9 0.47 212 215 3 2.43 MRC066 3 14 11 0.46 MRC067 57 86 29 0.58 122 128 6 1.39 204 212 8 0.79 MRC068 0 7 7 0.59 230 240 10 0.89 MRC069 34 59 25 0.44 69 80 11 0.75 98 112 14 0.62 169 210 41 2.11 MRC070 1 27 26 0.92 32 42 10 0.63 58 64 6 1.69 MRC071 1 86 85 0.70 MRC072 0 24 24 0.80 MRC073 2 8 6 0.93 15 21 6 2.25 27 42 15 1.72 45 62 17 2.17 89 97 8 1.57 MRC074B 19 29 10 1.08 38 46 8 0.64 112 133 21 1.03 MRC075 21 33 12 0.48 111 127 16 0.74 176 199 23 0.28 MRC076 93 110 17 0.62 121 160 39 0.98 173 195 22 0.99 210 225 15 0.63 MRC077 102 144 42 0.54 150 159 9 0.72 166 179 13 1.15 206 230 24 0.81 MRC078 0 38 38 0.51 123 135 12 1.02 MRC079 122 154 32 1.31 190 230 eoh 40 1.08 MRC080 133 137 4 1.42 145 179 34 0.54 190 198 8 0.97 MRC081B 152 199 47 0.80 204 255 51 0.89 MRC082 38 45 7 0.53 86 96 10 0.53 113 120 7 0.60 MRC083 4 17 13 0.53 MRC084B 89 93 4 5.68 MRC085B 112 141 29 0.95 MRC086B 147 159 12 0.77 186 197 11 0.93 MRC087 No Significant Intercept MRC088 No Significant Intercept MRC089 No Significant Intercept MRC090 8 40 32 0.89 98 105 7 0.66 141 153 12 1.99 MRC091 55 75 20 0.65 114 129 15 0.88 141 147 6 1.17 MRC092 111 148 37 0.83 158 186 28 1.06 MRC093 142 148 6 0.76 167 173 6 0.66 184 216 32 0.97 244 255 11 0.89 276 288 12 3.10 MRC094 172 187 15 0.42 197 207 10 1.03 215 258 43 1.41 271 280 9 0.92 MRC095B 63 80 17 0.49 106 134 28 1.13 155 165 10 0.76 170 180 10 1.24 184 189 5 1.17 193 226 33 0.60 MRC096 202 209 7 0.94 216 230 14 8.66 234 248 14 1.07 MRC097 168 193 25 1.55 197 220 23 0.82 248 252 eoh 4 1.70 MRC098 92 95 3 1.34 112 121 9 0.49 125 203 78 1.19 207 230 23 1.23 252 280 eoh 28 1.00 MRC099 23 27 4 2.57 31 36 5 1.11 67 93 26 0.96 99 121 22 1.28 139 155 16 1.39 159 196 37 0.65 MRC100 3 14 11 0.83 17 40 23 1.80 43 97 54 0.98 103 137 34 0.66 141 152 11 1.33 158 162 4 0.94 MRC101 0 15 15 1.02 37 55 18 0.82 59 81 22 0.72 99 110 11 0.65 115 127 12 0.97 MRC102 56 90 34 0.65 MRC103 No Significant Intercept MRC104 1 11 10 0.40 39 53 14 0.57 57 60 3 2.90 MRC105 0 17 17 0.70 58 65 7 0.76 79 93 14 0.83 MRC106 0 46 46 1.62 81 121 40 1.00 126 136 10 0.90 MRC107 2 28 26 0.73 37 59 22 1.53 67 83 16 0.74 99 107 8 0.77 116 158 42 1.35 185 200 15 1.20 MRC108 106 110 4 0.89 115 123 8 0.79 MRC109 107 110 3 0.48 123 133 10 0.85 166 176 10 0.77 178 225 47 1.76 MRC110 52 63 11 1.18 79 91 12 0.53 119 127 8 1.20 136 204 68 1.49 MRC111 0 12 12 0.48 21 48 27 1.41 64 84 20 1.16 95 162 67 1.86 188 192 4 8.28 222 232 10 0.53 MRC112 27 57 30 1.05 66 87 21 1.16 123 135 12 0.44 MRC113 50 65 15 0.89 75 95 20 0.70 125 151 26 0.69 166 178 12 1.33 MRC114 0 49 49 1.69 58 67 9 0.64 77 94 17 0.78 MRC115 0 63 63 1.42 Provides Exploration Update And Announces Official Mine Opening Ceremony TORONTO, Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HARTE GOLD CORP. (Harte Gold or the Company) (TSX: HRT / OTC: HRTFF / Frankfurt: H4O) is pleased to announce grid power to site, the mill has been energized, the Company has started processing ore from its surface stockpile and ore sill development has resumed underground. Commissioning of the mill complex and surface infrastructure is going very well and will be substantially complete within the next week. Stephen G. Roman, President and CEO of Harte Gold, commented, This is a significant accomplishment and successful conclusion to an accelerated timeline that saw construction started 14 months ago and completed with no lost time accidents. The Company is very excited to announce to shareholders they can now look forward to the first gold pour within the next two weeks. Exploration Update To-date, Harte Gold has completed 90,400 metres of drilling in its 2018 drill program. Key intersections are summarized below: Underground drilling has returned additional high grade intersections at the Upper Zone area of the Sugar Zone. Hole S095-18-005 returned 37.38 g/t over 1.97 metres , which will improve modelled grade and provides a near-surface block of high grade mineralization for initial mine production. , which will improve modelled grade and provides a near-surface block of high grade mineralization for initial mine production. Sugar Zone Inferred to Indicated drilling continues to return high grade intersections that are expected to improve overall modelled grade. Hole SZ-18-254 returned 30.95 g/t over 1.32 metres . . Middle Zone Inferred to Indicated drilling continues to show positive widths and grades. Hole WZ-18-202W returned 35.59 g/t over 2.58 metres . . Wolf Zone drilling has expanded the mineralized envelope further down dip. Hole WZ-18-179W5 returned 5.12 g/t over 2.25 metres and hole WZ-18-175 returned 5.64 g/t over 10.60 metres , including 63.90 g/t over 0.70 metres . The Company is targeting an Initial Inferred Resources estimate at the Wolf Zone for its next Mineral Resource Estimate update in Q1 2019. and hole WZ-18-175 returned , including . The Company is targeting an Initial Inferred Resources estimate at the Wolf Zone for its next Mineral Resource Estimate update in Q1 2019. Drill permits have been received for the Eagle and Highway zones. The Company has mobilized a drill rig to further test both zones. Results will be provided as they become available. Drill results are summarized in the following tables: Sugar Zone Drilling Hole # Area From To Grade (g/t) Width (m) S095-18-005 Upper Zone 39.88 41.85 37.38 1.97 SZ-18-253 Upper Zone 757.26 760.36 6.91 3.10 SZ-18-254 Below Indicated Outline 652.77 654.09 30.95 1.32 Middle Zone Drilling Hole # Area From To Grade (g/t) Width (m) WZ-18-135 Middle Zone 485.68 489.48 5.14 3.80 WZ-18-144 Middle Zone - Upper Zone 182.13 183.59 6.42 1.46 WZ-18-144 Middle Zone 188.00 189.30 26.46 1.30 WZ-18-190 Middle Zone 212.90 214.35 18.61 1.45 WZ-18-201 Middle Zone 485.21 487.14 10.70 1.93 WZ-18-202W Middle Zone 956.42 959.00 35.59 2.58 Wolf Zone Drilling Hole # Area From To Grade (g/t) Width (m) WZ-18-150W Wolf Zone 736.26 738.22 4.58 1.96 WZ-18-175 Wolf Zone 529.20 539.80 5.64 10.60 including Wolf Zone 539.10 539.80 63.90 0.70 WZ-18-179W5 Wolf Zone 1,045.00 1,047.25 5.12 2.25 Core intersection lengths in the tables above approximate 80% true width, assay results are uncut, fire assay with metallic screen on samples >10 g/t Figure 1 Official Mine Opening Ceremony The Company is also pleased to announce the Official Mine Opening Ceremony is scheduled for October 24, 2018. All shareholders and friends of the Company are welcome to attend the ceremony. For those planning to attend, please email Shawn Howarth, VP Corporate Development, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , by October 12, 2018, to be added to a registered list. Further details and a schedule of events will be provided as they become available for those planning to attend. About Harte Gold Corp. Harte Gold is focused on production at its 100% owned Sugar Zone Mine where it has completed a 70,000 tonne Advanced Exploration Bulk Sample, mined 30,000 tonnes under a Phase I Commercial Production Permit, permitted and built an 800 TPD processing plant. Harte Gold received operational permits to start full commercial production in September 2018. The Sugar Zone Mine is located 80 kilometres east of the Hemlo Gold Camp in Ontario. Using a 3 g/t Au cut-off, the Mineral Resource Estimate dated February 15, 2018 contains an Indicated Mineral Resource Estimate of 2,607,000 tonnes grading 8.52 g/t for 714,200 ounces contained gold and an Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate of 3,590,000 tonnes, grading 6.59 g/t for 760,800 ounces contained gold. QA/QC Statement The Company has implemented a quality assurance and control (QA/QC) program to ensure sampling and analysis of mine and exploration work is conducted in accordance with industry standards. Drill core is sawn in half with one half of the core shipped to Actlabs Laboratories located in Thunder Bay, ON, while the other half is retained at the Companys core facilities in White River, ON, for future verification. Certified reference standards and blanks are inserted into the sample stream on a regular interval basis and monitored as part of the QA/QC program. Gold analysis is performed by fire assay using atomic absorption, gravimetric or pulp metallic finish. The Mineral Resource Estimate was prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 guidelines. Robert Kusins, P. Geo., Harte Golds Senior Mineral Resource geologist, is the Companys Qualified Person and has prepared, supervised the preparation, or approved the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release. For further information, please contact: Stephen G. Roman President and CEO Tel: 416-368-0999 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Shawn Howarth Vice President, Corporate Development Tel: 416-368-0999 E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. The Toronto Stock Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Indian police said Wednesday that seven Rohingya detained in the countrys northeast will be deported to Myanmar, which has been accused by the UN of waging a campaign of genocide against the Muslim minority. The United Nations had warned India that returning the men ignored the persecution they faced in Myanmar, and would be a flagrant denial of their right to protection. But police in the northeast Indian state of Manipur, where the men have been incarcerated since 2012 for immigration violations, said the Rohingya would be deported Thursday. The seven Myanmarese men will be deported tomorrow, Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta, a senior state police officer, told AFP. The UN Special Rapporteur on racism, Tendayi Achiume, said she was appalled at the amount of time the men from Rakhine state in Myanmars west had been detained. Rakhine was the epicentre of a Myanmar army offensive that over the past year has driven 700,000 Rohingya Muslims into Bangladesh. Myanmars army has denied nearly all wrongdoing, insisting its campaign was justified to root out Rohingya insurgents. But a UN fact-finding mission said there was enough evidence to merit prosecution of several top Myanmar military commanders for crimes against humanity and genocide against Rohingya civilians. Nearly 200 Rohingya are known to be detained in India on charges of illegal entry, Achiume said. The deportations follow an Indian government order last year to return the Rohingya. The Supreme Court is still considering a petition challenging the order on the grounds it was unconstitutional. Achiume said India risked breaching its international legal obligations by returning the men to possible harm. Given the ethnic identity of the men, this is a flagrant denial of their right to protection and could amount to refoulement, the law professor said in a statement. New Delhi has described the Rohingya as a security threat, pointing to intelligence it says links the minority group to extremist organisations. The UN says there are 16,000 registered Rohingya in India, but many more are undocumented. New Delhi puts the figure at 40,000. Kansas State University reaches significant step in multicultural center project Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018 More than $2.7 million in private gifts will help Kansas State University plan for a multicultural center to the east of the K-State Student Union. | Download this photo. MANHATTAN Kansas State University has secured more than $2.7 million for the multicultural center project, a substantial step in advancing student success, diversity, inclusion and social justice. "Last fall, during the inaugural KSUnite event, we prioritized the multicultural center project for the year ahead and tasked a universitywide team to turn ideas and thoughts into action," said President Richard Myers. "In less than a year, we've made tremendous progress. The multicultural center will be a place for students, faculty and staff to learn from each other as well as serve as a symbol of how K-Staters work hard together to accomplish great things." The Multicultural Center Project Action Team, a 28-member team of student, faculty, staff, administrators, alumni, KSU Foundation and community representatives, provided recommendations to the president's cabinet on the facility's use, location and design. The team proposes a 14,300-square-foot facility adjacent to the K-State Student Union. "This center has been a dream for many generations of K-State students and supports our land-grant mission," said Pat Bosco, vice president for student life and dean of students. "We joined together with many students representing all kinds of voices and we have listened carefully. The center's central location will help fulfill the vision of a place where all people can unite for a better K-State." The action team has been working with Albert Ray II, a 1993 Kansas State University graduate in architecture, planning and design and employee at Hollis + Miller Architects in Kansas City, for guidance. The KSU Foundation approved funding to contract with Hollis + Miller Architect for the preliminary design and specifications, which is expected by January 2019. The university will present the project for building approval to the Kansas Board of Regents in November. "The Multicultural Center Project Action Team worked diligently throughout the summer to honor and build on the previous work for the center," said Adrian Rodriguez, associate vice president for student life. "They have developed a program statement that outlines the space and will continue to be involved in the planning process." Makinsey McIntosh, a member of the Multicultural Center Project Action Team and multicultural affairs director for the Student Governing Association, said working on the center with other students and supporters has shown how important it is to the K-State community. "As a team, we put in hours of brainstorming to not only fulfill the needs of our current multicultural students, but our future students as well for generations to come," said McIntosh, a senior in animal sciences and industry. "It is exciting to see this project move forward and to understand the progress we made this summer and over years of collaboration and persistence. I look forward to share what we have accomplished and more of our students' stories through this project." The action team's recommendations include a welcome area; gathering, meeting and performance practice space; student and multicultural student organization group spaces; a kitchen; office space; and core support space, such as lactation room and student organization storage space. "I'm proud of the work our group has done to move us forward toward realizing our multicultural center," said Spencer Wood, president of Faculty Senate and associate professor of sociology. "It is a vital component of our welcoming and inclusive vision and future of K-State as a transformative university for all of our students." The university will start construction once a minimum fundraising threshold has been surpassed. The multicultural center project will be funded completely by private gifts. "The fundraising thus far is a significant step in making the center a reality," said Greg Willems, KSU Foundation president and CEO. "The KSU Foundation will continue fundraising efforts once the project rendering is complete with space details and can be used to share an accurate description of the facility and its impact at K-State." The university community and members of the public are invited to hear more about the project Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 9, at KSUnite activities in World War I Memorial Stadium. Events start at 1 p.m. with the Unity Walk from Bosco Plaza in front of the K-State Student Union to the stadium, followed by presentations by various speakers and an update on the multicultural center project. Sir Joe Bossano at Telecommunications Conference This week, Minister for Telecommunications Sir Joe Bossano is in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, following an invitation from the Commonwealth Telecommunication Organisation to participate in the 58th council meeting and annual ICT Forum of the CTO. The council meeting is a closed-door event limited to CTO members and its main policy-making body. The ICT Forum is open to the industry from Commonwealth countries. Sir Joe will form part of a discussion panel in the 1st session with Telecommunication Ministers from the Republic of Gambia, the Republic of South Africa, Bermuda and Antigua and Barbuda. He will chair the second session "Creating a favourable investment and development climate" with a panel of Ministers from Bermuda, Nigeria, Botswana and Sierra Leone. He will also participate as panellist with representatives from Trinidad and Tobago in the seventh session that deals with Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies and will chair the eighth session on General Data Protection Regulation in which the Minister from Jamaica will participate. Finally, he has been asked to be a panellist in the closing session "The Way Forward" with Ministers from the Republic of Gambia, the Republic of South Africa, Bermuda and Antigua and Barbuda. During the week Sir Joe has been invited to dinner by the British High Commission at his private residence. | BY Ricki Green | Budget Direct has launched its new campaign via 303 MullenLowe, Sydney with a 2min 30sec TVC, which airs tonight on primetime television, including Sunday Night on 7, 60 Minutes on 9 and The Project on 10. The 2min 30sec spot will also run on cinema and YouTube. A 60sec version of the TVC also starts its run on Sunday. The campaign blends together a new take on the classic crime thriller mystery with a unique series of otherworldly events. The campaign introduces a new character, a detective named Sarge, who investigates a series of truly remarkable incidents. Despite the inexplicable happenings, Sarge uncovers the real mysterywhy the people involved in these incidents paid more than they had to for their insurance. The spot concludes with the message, Its a mystery why anyone would pay more for insurance. Get award-winning cover for less with Budget Direct and the new campaign line, Budget Direct Insurance Solved. The campaign was shot by legendary British director Daniel Kleinman, through production company Goodoil. Kleinman is well-known for his award-winning commercial work as well as the James Bond film title sequences. The project was led by ECD Richard Morgan, creative director Adam Whitehead and copywriter Mike Burdick. Regarding his final project for the agency Morgan said: Its been a privilege working with such a talented team and courageous brand on a new campaign of this scale. Over four years Captain Risky became a household name and helped Budget Direct to become Australias fastest growing car and home insurer. Not one to rest on their laurels, Budget Direct challenged us with another unique brief, and its been a pleasure to create the new campaign that truly reflects Budget Directs ambitions to lift the bar once again. Says Jonathan Kerr, chief marketing officer, Budget Direct: We set out to make Budget Directs new marketing campaign just as innovative, engaging and unique as our ability to offer award-winning insurance for less. Now that weve got Sarge on the case, we hope Australians enjoy the ads and in turn consider our message even more. The campaign was filmed in and around Sydney. Says Kleinman: It was a marvellous opportunity for a director to work on the new Budget Direct campaign, bringing new characters to life and working with not only great actors but also a wonderful team of people in Australia, including the crew, agency and client. I feel that Sarge and Jac are characters that well enjoy watching and following now and in the future as the sensible question they have for Australia is posed in a such an entertaining way. The commercials were cut at The Editors, Alt.VFX were tasked with the VFX, and Sonar contributed the original music score. All campaign photography was shot by Mat Baker. Says Nick Cleaver, CEO, 303MullenLowe: This is a campaign that will lead the category in terms of being highly entertaining and effective. Its not only compelling viewing it vividly highlights the benefit of taking out a policy with Budget Direct. In the run up to the launch, 6sec teasers were seeded on YouTube and Facebook, with teaser large format digital billboards across major cities and online display. The campaign will encompass the full array of integrated channels, created and managed in-house by Budget Directs in-house marketing & digital team. Client Budget Direct Chief Marketing Officer Jonathan Kerr General Manager Brand & Media Marketing: Warren Marsh Marketing Manager New Customer Acquisition: Catherine Harty Budget Directs Remarkable In-House Marketing & Digital Team Agency 303 MullenLowe Executive Creative Director Richard Morgan Creative Director Adam Whitehead Senior Copywriters Mike Burdick / Sean Larkin Agency Producer Sean Ascroft Client Services Director Tony Dunseath / Joanna Gray Senior Business Director Meredith Raskopf Business Director Olivia Maguire Head of Strategy Jon McKie Production Company Goodoil Films / Rattling Stick Director Daniel Kleinman Executive Producers Sam Long / Johnnie Frankel Producer Andrew McLean DOP Ginny Loane Editors Mark Burnett @The Editors Editorial Assistant Lily Davis Post Production alt.vfx VFX Supervisor Jay Hawkins VFX Producer Celeste Fairlie Music and Sound Company: Sonar Music Music Composer Matteo Zingales Executive Producer Sophie Haydon Sound Designer Timothy Bridge Audio Director Wes Chew Foley Longstocking Studios Stills Photographer LOUIS & CO, The Mighty Mat Baker 113 Shares Share While walking through the duty-free at Dulles International Airport in Washington, DC, I happened upon the price tag of an imported French purse. Looking around, I wondered how many travelers could afford a $2,000 handbag.At the gate, I found a seat and logged on to the internet, where I happened upon a story about the CEO of Nostrum Laboratories, Nirmal Mulye. In an interview, Mr. Mulye explained why he raised the price of an antibiotic by more than 400 percent, from under $500 to over $2,000. I think its a moral requirement to make money when you can to sell the product for the highest price, said the CEO. He went on to compare his pricing strategy to that of an art dealer who sells a painting for half a billion dollars. I dont know anyone who spends half-a-billion on canvases, and Im uncertain who, exactly, purchases luxury handbags at the airport, but I know precisely who buys Mr. Mulyes antibiotic: families with sick children who usually cant afford $2,000 a bottle. When I was an intern, I prescribed this same drug, Nitrofurantoin, to patients with severe bladder infections. It was one of the most inexpensive and effective medications available. But that was a different time in American medicine, an era filled with remarkable discoveries, advances in treatment and saner pricing. The current era of medicine is all about profit generation. So, you can be certain Mr. Mulyes quote doesnt merely reflect the misguided morals of one greedy CEO. His words underpin the mentality of an entire industry. Pharmaceutical companies spend big on lobbying and profit handsomely in return for campaign contributions. Over the past decade, drug makers have doled out nearly $2.5 billion to U.S. legislators dollars that have led to reduced competition, beefed up patent protections and skyrocketing prices. Long implicit in this quid pro quo has been the assumption that companies will justify their semi-monopolistic prerogatives by investing in research and development (R&D), thereby improving their current medications and ushering in the next generation of breakthrough drugs. Then again, you know what they say about assumptions. Nitrofurantoin, for one, has been around since 1953 and, other than cleaning up the drugs liquid contents to meet new FDA rules, there have been no major improvements, no new breakthroughs, nothing of substance that would justify a 400 percent price hike. Of the $3.4 trillion Americans now spend on health care each year, more than 10 percent goes to prescription drugs. Patients are getting sick of these rapidly escalating costs, especially after all the political promises made during the 2016 national elections. A new poll shows just 23 percent of voters approve of President Donald Trumps handling of prescription drug costs, and even fewer are pleased with Congress, which has been responsible for (a) preventing the federal government from negotiating drug prices the on behalf of the beneficiaries they insure and (b) outlawing the purchase of prescription drugs from other countries. Even though European pharmacies sell Nitrofurantoin, the exact same medication, for a quarter of the price, patients in the U.S. are prohibited from buying it from them. The way U.S. drug makers price their products is legal, but its not moral. Handbag makers and art auctioneers are entitled to sell the products for the highest price because the people who buy them have a choice. Patients in need often dont. Already, many Americans are suffering the consequences of rising drug prices. According to one recent survey, 45 percent of patients with diabetes have skipped doses of insulin because they cant afford the going rate. Between 2002 and 2013, the price of insulin jumped from about $40 a vial to $130. There are equally safe and effective alternatives being sold at a fraction of the price in other countries, but these biosimilars are prohibited from being marketed or sold in the U.S. The time has come for Congress and President Trump to act. Their actions must be equal in consequence to the egregious, and predatory pricing strategies drug companies impose on patients. Some of the cost-curtailing proposals now being discussed would constitute a good start. They include full-disclosure pricing, eliminating more of the middlemen, and lifting the ban that prevents our government from negotiating drug prices for Medicare recipients. Although these actions would not have major impact on overall drug costs, they would communicate the federal governments concern (and willingness to stand up) for its citizens. The best solution: federal legislation that requires drug companies to justify their pricing, based either on how much they invest in R&D or the relative effectiveness of their product compared to existing alternatives. Today neither of these solutions are on the table. Perhaps that will change now that Mr. Mulye has informed the American public of what he and his industry brethren truly believe. Thanks to his recent interview, the federal government has no excuse for looking the other way. We need common-sense pricing laws that recognize there is a difference between life-saving drugs and luxury handbags. Robert Pearl is a physician and CEO, Permanente Medical Groups. He is the author of Mistreated: Why We Think Were Getting Good Health CareAnd Why Were Usually Wrong and can be reached on Twitter @RobertPearlMD. This article originally appeared in Forbes. Image credit: Shutterstock.com As of 9am this morning (Wednesday), a number of Kilkenny soldiers remain stranded in one of the world's trouble spots since Monday. Members of the 57th Infantry Group have been trying for three days to get home from the Golan Heights on the Syria/Israeli border following a six month deployment there as part of the United Nations Disengagement Observation Force (UNDOF). Families in the city and county are distraught after a plane meant to carry troops home from Syria never left the ground and many had booked holidays to welcome their loved ones home at Dublin airport but their plans are now in ruins. The Defence Forces has acknowledged how difficult it is for partners and children who have been left bitterly disappointed. An army spokesman said organising travel through Lebanon and Syria can be challenging at the best of times and that they are working to bring the local soldiers home as soon as possible. UPDATE Dail confirms two weeks delay in Kilkenny soldiers returning home from UN duty - personnel delayed returning home will get a 1,000 ex gratia payment in recognition of the disruption caused to them and their families. It has been confirmed in the Dail that soldiers from Kilkenny serving in the Golan Heights on the Syria/Israeli border will not return home for an additional two weeks. The Kilkenny People reported this morning that the Kilkenny soldiers had been left stranded in world trouble spot. Minister with Responsibility for Defence Paul Kehoe T.D., has now made a statement in the Dail regarding the delay in the rotation of Defence Force Personnel serving in UNDOF. Members of the 57th Infantry Group have been trying for three days to get home from the Golan Heights following a six month deployment there as part of the United Nations Disengagement Observation Force (UNDOF). Families in the city and county are distraught after a plane meant to carry troops home from Syria never left the ground and many had booked holidays to welcome their loved ones home at Dublin airport but their plans are now in ruins. The minister said the delay was caused by "diplomatic clearances" and has committed to paying the soldiers a 1,000 ex gratia payment in recognition of the disruption caused to them and their families. "I want to advise the House that there has been a delay in the rotation of Defence Force Personnel serving in UNDOF, this will result in a delay for 119 personnel returning home. "Following receipt of all the required diplomatic clearances for the flight to rotate the Defence Forces contingent in UNDOF on Tuesday the 2nd of October, an issue arose unexpectedly in relation to the clearances on Monday morning. Every effort was made to address this by the Department of Defence and the Department of Foreign Affairs, but the issue could not be resolved within the time necessary to allow the rotation to be completed on schedule on Tuesday. As soon as this was known, the personnel and their families were contacted and advised of the issue and the postponement of the rotation. "Personally, I have been in direct contact with our honourary consul in Beirut, Georges Siam, in order to try to resolve the situation. "Rotation of contingents is coordinated across the UNDOF mission so as to maintain appropriate forces on the ground in support of the mission. In addition, rotation flights through Beirut are confined to certain days and times. As such, there are limited windows during which we can rotate the Defence Forces contingent. Given these constraints, the timelines necessary to secure diplomatic clearances, and the primacy of ensuring a safe and secure transit through Syria and Lebanon for the rotating contingents, it is now planned to rotate the contingents on Monday the 15th of October, 2018. It is expected that those returning to their families will arrive back on Tuesday 16th October. "I am acutely aware of the impact that this unfortunate delay of the UNDOF rotation is having on both the 119 personnel due to return home and those departing to service with UNDOF as well as their families. "Every effort possible is being made right across the Defence Organisation, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and our embassy in Cairo to address this issue and ensure the safe and secure return of our personnel as soon as possible. "I can assure Deputies that allowances due to personnel while they are serving overseas will continue to be paid and that their 30 day post deployment leave entitlements will only commence from when they return. "Additionally, I have taken a decision that the personnel delayed in returning home are to receive a 1,000 ex gratia payment in recognition of the disruption caused to them and their families." Members of the Piltown Municipal District and the New Ross District met in South Kilkenny this afternoon to vote on the name of the new bridge which which traverse the River Barrow. The bridge, which is part of the New Ross bypass and will be completed next year, is 900 metres in length, making it the longest bridge in Ireland. There was a public consultation period earlier this year both in Kilkenny and Wexford and a decision was made in the two electoral areas on a proposed name. Members of the Piltown Municipal District put forward the proposed name of the Pink Rock Bridge while their counterparts in New Ross suggested the name the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Bridge. A vote was taken this afternoon at the Rhu Glen Hotel in Slieverue with eight councillors voting in favour of the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Bridge and six in favour of the Pink Rock Bridge. Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, was an American philanthropist, socialite, and the matriarch of the Kennedy family while the Pink Rock is the traditional name for the area because of the hue of the local rock on the Kilkenny side of the River Barrow. Members of the Piltown Municipal who voted in favour of the proposed name the Pink Road Bridge were Cllr Fidelis Doherty, Cllr Pat Dunphy, Cllr Eamon Alyward, Cllr Tomas Breatnach, Cllr Ger Frisby while Cllr Melissa O'Neill voted in favour of the name of the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Bridge. 34,380 customers across county Kilkenny will be contacted by Irish Water over the coming weeks to update them about works happening in their locality to improve their water quality. Irish Water is to write to homes and businesses on the public water network in County Kilkenny where there may have previously been or where there is an existing issue with the drinking water quality. Issues include cryptosporidium and THMs. What are THMs? Click here for an explainer of the cause and effects. There are 5 schemes in Kilkenny where issues have been identified. Water is safe to drink in these schemes but Irish Water will outline specifically what we are doing to improve the supply there. Homes and businesses in 16 counties across the country on 55 different water supply schemes will receive a detailed booklet outlining the issues with their water supply which might vary from elevated THMs; inadequate barriers for cryptosporidium; poor turbidity removal; presence of low levels of pesticides; or details of an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) audit of a plant. The individual booklet will explain in detail to householders where their drinking water comes from; why Irish Water are writing to them; how Irish Water know that their water is safe to drink; information about regulation and testing; what Irish Water is doing to fix their specific water supply; and where they can get more information. In Bennettsbridge and Glenmore, there is a risk of cryptosporidium however Irish Water put remedial works in place to mitigate these issues and is now working on a long term solution in both areas. To address the issue in Bennettsbridge, the water treatment plant serving the area is being upgraded. We expect these works to be completed by early 2019. In Glenmore, Irish Water is investigating ground water sources for an alternative water supply which will replace the current source. In Inistioge, Irish Water will be changing the supply source for the area due to the risk of THMs. In future, water supply will come from the Thomastown Public Water Scheme. The works to facilitate this change are expected to be completed by early 2019. In Kilkenny City, areas at risk of THMs will also have a change in water source. In future, water supplies will come from the Troyswood Water Treatment Plant. Works to facilitate this change are expected to be completed by the end of 2021. In parts of Kilkenny City served by the Troyswood Water Treatment Plant, pesticides were detected in the water in 2017. To address this, Irish Water is working with a range of other agencies and stakeholders, including landowners, to put in place measures to increase awareness and prevent further pesticide exceedances. Speaking about the public information campaign, James OToole, Regional Operations Lead with Irish Water said, Everyone we are writing to in County Kilkenny has access to drinking water that is safe to drink. We monitor and test our supplies on a continuous basis and if this monitoring indicates a potential water quality issue we consult with the EPA. If there is any potential risk to public health from the drinking water supply we inform the HSE immediately. In that instance, we would encourage the public to follow the advice given by the HSE and implement their recommendations. If anyone has any questions or concerns they should contact Irish Water. Irish Water has worked closely with the EPA to identify the public water schemes that need a plan or action to improve their water treatment. We are prioritising our investment in these treatment plants. Providing safe, clean drinking water for all in County Kilkenny is our first goal. If members of the public have any questions that are not covered in booklet please phone us on Callsave 1850 278 278 or +353 1 707 2828 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). We also have a dedicated web page at www.water.ie/waterquality The recent Water Services Policy Statement 2018 2025 called for better engagement with, and greater transparency for people using public water supplies. This direct communication is an important part of helping the public to understand what Irish Water do as a utility. IPAV, the Institute of Professional Auctioneers & Valuers, has launched, in partnership with the IFA (Irish Farmers Association) and the Mediators Institute of Ireland (MII), a new Nationwide Mediation Service designed to resolve farming and land disputes and disagreements. Speaking at the launch of the service in conjunction with IFA President Joe Healy and Sabine Walsh, President of MII at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise, IPAV President, Ella Dunphy said in the farming sector, success hinges on stability in relationships, associations and contracts. Whether its ownership of land going back several decades, to modern share farming agreements, disagreements can arise that can be personally, professionally, financially, legally and socially very damaging, she said. However, any agreement or contract has the potential to cause disagreement, and agricultural land agreements are no exception. She said the IFA master lease which IPAV members will now recommend to all members is an excellent land leasing document designed for the efficient and effective resolution of disputes. Parties can immediately identify a route to resolving a problem. However, while some issues are easily resolved, many disputes cannot be easily straightened out and require the assistance of a third party. Traditionally this was dealt with through the legal route involving solicitors and the courts, but the role of mediation is increasingly becoming more common and for good reason, she said. Ms Dunphy said it is arguable that mediation is well suited to most disputes because it gives parties more control over the outcome of a dispute, as well as being much faster and less costly than going to court. She said the partnership between IPAV, the IFA and the MII launched today was developed over the last three years. IPAVs Chief Executive Pat Davitt said his institution was delighted to endorse a Mediation Service in conjunction with the IFA and the MII. which can be activated by IFA members in the event of a dispute. The service can be activated in a variety of ways - through an IPAV Member, online by accessing MII members directly, or through referrals from solicitors, accountants or agri-consultants, he said. IPAV members will conduct a free open market rental valuation to IFA members who wish to rent theirlands and an MII selected member's initial, and if required second mediation consultation, will attract a 50pc discount to IPAV & IFA members. New Plymouth MP Jonathan Young writes: In a beautiful sense of irony, Greenpeace is doing a victory lap around New Zealand with its flagship vessel Rainbow Warrior III, celebrating the ban on new offshore exploration. However, below the deck, the Rainbow Warrior can carry up to 90 tonnes of diesel to fuel the 1,850 horsepower Volvo Penta engine. It uses this for backup when the wind isnt strong enough to fill its sails. The irony is that if Greenpeace took their blinkers off, theyd see that firing up the high-emission Volvo Penta when the wind drops off, is no different to firing up a lower-emission gas peaker power station when the wind isnt strong enough (or too strong) to turn a wind turbine. New Zealanders have a healthy sense of cynicism, and heres a good opportunity to show it. Russell Norman, Chief Executive of Greenpeace NZ, is also mounting a new level of alarmism through the tour saying the hydrocarbon industry are enemies, likening them to the bombers of the first Rainbow Warrior. So, ease up a bit Russell. The sector here in Taranaki are made up of hard-working, law-abiding citizens who contribute very positively to Taranakis and New Zealands economic success. They are our families, friends and neighbours. Im all for new forms of energy after all Im a Treky from way back! Innovative ideas are delivering some exciting options for us albeit little way to go before most are affordable. The great thing about Taranaki, weve got plenty of wind, so we might see you sailing past one day By West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 02, 2018 | 11:39 AM | MARSHALL COUNTY A disturbance in Marshall County Monday night led to a Calloway County man's arrest on multiple charges. The Marshall County Sheriff's Office says deputies were dispatched to Union Ridge Road in reference to a disturbance. Deputies say David M. Freeman, of Murray, was reportedly threatening people with a knife. Deputies then received a report that Freeman had walked across the road and had broken into a home. Deputies responded and found Freeman inside the home. Freeman was arrested and charged with burglary, menacing, criminal mischief, alocohol intoxication in a public place and resisting arrest. He was also arrested on multiple warrants from Marshall, Graves and Calloway counties. He was lodged in the Marshall County Detention Center. Zagreb, Oct 3 (AFP) A Zagreb court has rejected charges that Croatia captain and Real Madrid star Luka Modric gave false testimony in a corruption trial, a Croatian newspaper reported. The decision, which can be appealed, came just a week after Modric was crowned FIFA's best player of the year, after starring for both his club and Croatia. Croatian prosecutors charged Modric in March with committing perjury during evidence he gave in the multi-million-euro corruption trial of former Dinamo Zagreb boss Zdravko Mamic. Modric, 33, testified in June last year over the details of his 2008 transfer from Dinamo to Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur. He went on to join Real Madrid in 2012. The offence carries a maximum penalty of up to five years in jail. But, the Zagreb municipal court decided not to confirm the indictment -- a step required by Croatian law for a trial to open -- according to an online report in the Vecernji List daily quoting the tribunal. The report on Tuesday could not be immediately confirmed with the court. Vecernji List said the court ruled that the indictment was "premature", meaning it should have not been brought before rulings in the trial against Mamic become final. Mamic and three other defendants were found guilty of charges of abuse of power and corruption that cost Dinamo, the current Croatian champions, more than 15 million euros ($17.3 million), and the state 1.5 million euros. Mamic, who is currently in hiding in neighbouring Bosnia, was sentenced in June to six and a half years in jail. Prosecutors allege cash was embezzled through fictitious deals related to player transfers. Liverppool defender Dejan Lovren, who also testified at the Mamic trial about his 2010 transfer from Dinamo to French side Lyon, also faces perjury charges. (AFP) ATK (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Lucknow, October 3: Autopsy report of deceased Apple executive Vivek Tiwari has hinted towards police negligence as one of the reasons behind his death. The medical report finds that Tiwari was alive for 55 minutes after being hit by the fatal bullet. The delay in treatment could had led to his demise. The post-mortem report mentions that Tiwari was admitted at 2:05am at the Ram Manohar Lohia hospital, which is located 10-minute away from the site where he was shot. Notably, he was fired upon by the rogue UP police constable, Prashant Choudhary, at 1:30am. Apple Employee Vivek Tiwaris Post Mortem Report Reveals He Died Due to a Gunshot. Eye-witness Sana Khan told mediapersons that Chaudhary drove his SUV for 300 minutes after shot, and rammed into a pillar near Shaheed Path. Even after bringing Choudhary to the hospital, his treatment was delayed, said Sana. The police was enquiring about the incident rather than allowing the medical team to initiate immediate treatment, she claimed. Despite reaching the hospital at 2:05am, the treatment was delayed by roughly 30 minutes. The autopsy report finds that Tiwari breathed his last at 2:25am. According to medical experts, timely treatment could had saved the life of Tiwari. In accidents and gunshot incidents, the first hour of treatment is critical, opines Dr Ashish Singh, an expert in trauma injuries. Tiwari was killed on the intervening night of Friday and Saturday, when he refrained to stop his car on the directions of the UP police personnel at 1:30am. His death sparked uproar, with the UP police suspending the accused constable and taking him into arrest. The bereaved family would be given an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 40 lakh, along with a government job for one member of the family. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 03, 2018 04:14 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Hyderabad, October 3: MVVC Murthy, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MLC & director of GITAM University was killed in a car accident in the United States of America on Tuesday. According to a tweet by ANI, Murthy lost his life in a car accident in Alaska on Tuesday night. Reports inform that five persons were present in the car out of which four people including the MLC died while one person survived with injuries. TDP General Secretary Nara Lokesh took to Twitter to inform about Murthy's demise and said its a devastating loss to the party and family. "The sudden demise of senior leader & MLC MVVS Murthy Garu is a devastating loss to the party and family," Lokesh said. "An unwavering champion for education and employment creation, he touched many lives with his deep compassion and empathy. His was a life well-lived!", he added. Nandamuri Harikrishna Was Driving His SUV Car at 160 km/hr Says Nalagonda SP, Telugu Actor & TDP Leader Dies in an Accident. The sudden demise of senior leader & MLC MVVS Murthy Garu is a devastating loss to the party and family. An unwavering champion for education & employment creation, he touched many lives with his deep compassion and empathy. His was a life well-lived! Lokesh Nara (@naralokesh) October 3, 2018 Meanwhile, YS Chowdary, Former Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences expressed grief over the loss of their leader. "Deeply saddened to learn that MLC and GITAM University director Shri MVVS Murthy garu was killed in a road accident in USA. My prayers and heartfelt condolences for his family members and loved ones. India has lost a preeminent educationist and visionary", he wrote on Twitter. Deeply saddened to learn that MLC and #GITAM University director Shri MVVS Murthy garu was killed in a road accident in USA. My prayers and heartfelt condolences for his family members and loved ones. India has lost a preeminent educationist and visionary. pic.twitter.com/L1kWDiWTJr YS Chowdary (@yschowdary) October 3, 2018 Reports inform that Murthy, a former Vishakhapatnam MP, was travelling in a car with four other members of his family. There were five members in the car including the MLC in the car when the accident took place. The lone survivor, Kadiyala Venkata Ratnam, a social entrepreneur, is reportedly in critical condition. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 03, 2018 11:23 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Islamabad, October 3: The Pakistan government has refuted reports claiming that Prime Minister Imran Khan is expecting his first child with wife Bushra Maneka. The Ministry of Information, through its specially designated Twitter handle for combating fake news, condemned the media outlets which published the "fabricated and baseless news". The government's clarification came after the rumours recently gained credence, with the Urdu newspaper Daily Ummat publishing an article on Maneka's alleged pregnancy. The report said Khan would disclose the news at an appropriate time. Imran Khan Targets PM Narendra Modi as India Calls Off Meeting With Pakistan, Says 'Small Men Occupying Big Offices'. Notably, Maneka is the third wife of Khan and got married to him in February this year. A spiritual preacher, she has been credited by political analysts for the conservative image adopted by Khan which has boosted his popularity among the masses. Here is the clarification tweeted by Pakistan's Ministry of Information: Fabricating and spreading completely baseless news is a malicious activity & in violation of journalistic ethics & code of conduct. Such behavior is highly condemnable. It is the collective responsibility of social media users to discourage and reject all such elements. #FakeNews pic.twitter.com/uR21H7HNwZ FakeNewsBusterMoIB (@FakeNews_Buster) October 3, 2018 Khan, 65, has two sons - Salman and Qasim - from his first wife Jemima Goldsmith, a renowned film producer in the UK. The marriage lasted for 10 years and ended in 2004. In 2015, Khan married to British journalist Reham Khan. The marriage, however, lasted for nearly 10 months. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 03, 2018 05:44 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Islamabad, October 3: In a U-turn, Pakistan has announced that its close ally Saudi Arabia would not join the USD 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, days after Islamabad said Riyadh will be the third "strategic partner" of China's flagship project, the Belt and Road Initiative. The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of President Xi Jinping aimed at enhancing China's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects. Minister for Planning and Development Khusro Bakhtiar told media on Tuesday that the cash-rich kingdom's proposed investments would fall under a separate bilateral arrangement, Dawn news reported. Pakistan Takes U-Turn, Says 'No Offer For Talks' in Letter by PM Modi to Imran Khan. "Saudi Arabia is not to become a collateral strategic partner in the CPEC. This impression is not true," he said. A third country can participate in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by taking part in the business and investment ventures arising out of the project, Bakhtiar said. "The framework between China and Pakistan is bilateral and Saudi Arabia is not entering that framework as a third-party investor, rather the base of the CPEC will be broadened and its pace will be expedited," he said. Last month, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said that Saudi Arabia is the third "strategic partner" of the CPEC, soon after Prime Minister Imran Khan returned from his first foreign trip to the kingdom. Interestingly Chaudhry was sitting with Bakhtiar when he issued clarification that Saudi Arabia participation in the CPEC was not as third partner in the project. Bakhtiar further said that there was no decision to bring a third country, like Saudi Arabia, under the framework of the CPEC. He was responding to questions about the possibility of Saudi Arabia becoming part of the Joint Working Groups or Joint Coordination Committee on the CPEC. Bakhtiar said there could be many offshoots of the CPEC where third countries could be involved in trilateral arrangement for infrastructure development, like China-Pakistan-Japan, China-Pakistan-Saudi Arabia or China-Pakistan-Germany. To Keep Eye on India, China Launches Two Satelites For Pakistan. The minister dodged questions when asked how the cost of Main Railway Line (ML-I) had been reduced by USD 2 billion from USD 8.2 billion to USD 6.2 billion as claimed by Railways Minister Shaikh Rasheed Ahmed. "I have noticed this today that Sheikh Rasheed is making some efforts (to reduce the cost) but not to my knowledge. Nothing has come in front of me to suggest that the cost has come down," he said. Bakhtiar said the CPEC portfolio currently stands at about USD 50 billion, of which about USD 6 billion was government-to-government loan and remaining in Independent Power Producers mode mostly in the energy sector. About USD 29 billion worth of projects were currently in progress. He said the CPEC had far bigger potential than USD 50 billion and would keep expanding with time as new projects come up but the previous government treated and played it like a T-20 match instead of a five-day test series and focused mostly on projects which could be completed during its tenure. Currently, a Saudi delegation is in Pakistan for initial assessment to capitalise on the Pakistani offer. India has opposed the CPEC project and protested to China as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan Cuts Down Size of Chinese Silk Road Project by $2 billion, Citing Its Debt Obligations. The U.S. has decided to withdraw from the optional protocol on disputes resolution of the Vienna Convention, National Security Adviser John Bolton announced on Wednesday. He said this decision comes as the Trump Administration believes that the International Court of Justice (ICJ) was interfering and stepping on the U.S's sovereignty citing a Palestinian lawsuit challenging America's move to shift its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem as the reason. "This is in connection with a case brought by the so-called state of Palestine naming the United States as a defendant, challenging our move of our embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem," he said. The announcement by the National Security Advisor came soon after U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced to terminate the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran after the ICJ held up some of Tehrans charge against the U.S. based on this treaty. Citing this ruling, Bolton said that Iran had made a mockery of the 1955 treaty with its support for terrorism, provocative ballistic missile proliferation and malign behaviour throughout the Middle East. "In addition to the Treaty of Amity, I am announcing that the president has decided that the United States will withdraw from the Optional Protocol and Dispute Resolution to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations," Bolton said. Bolton, simultaneously underscored that the U.S. remained a party to the underlying Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, and it expects all other parties to abide by their international obligations under the convention. The top Trump administration official insisted that the two actions were consistent with the decisions former U.S. President Ronald Reagan made in the 1980s in the wake of the politicised suits against the U.S. by Nicaragua to terminate its acceptance of the Optional Compulsory Jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice under Article 36-2 of the ICJ statute, and his decision to withdraw from a bilateral treaty with Nicaragua. For 40 years, from 1946 to 1986, the United States accepted the general jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice in all kinds of cases against other nations that had also agreed to the court's jurisdiction. After an unfavorable ruling from the court in 1986 over the mining of Nicaragua's harbors, the United States withdrew from the court's general jurisdiction. "It is also consistent with the decision President Bush made in 2005 to withdraw from the Optional Protocol to the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations following the ICJ's interference in our domestic criminal justice system," he said. In 2005, the U.S. withdrew from the optional protocol on Consular Relations after the ICJ ruled that American courts to grant "review and reconsideration" to claims that the death row inmates' cases had been hurt by the failure of local authorities to allow them to contact consular officials. Bolton also said the administration was reviewing all international agreements that could expose it to binding decisions by the International Court of Justice saying it was politicised and ineffective. This announcement comes barely a month after Bolton had lashed out at the ICJ and said the U.S. will use "any means necessary" to protect its citizens and allies from prosecution by the International Criminal Court (ICC). The U.S. in May opened its embassy in Jerusalem under a controversial move by President Donald Trump, amid a bloodbath right on the border with Gaza where Israeli soldiers shot dead at least 52 Palestinians in clashes, in the deadliest escalation of violence since 2014. President Donald Trump announced the decision to move the embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in December, when he formally recognised the holy city as the capital of Israel, breaking away from decades of U.S. neutrality on the sensitive issue. (With Agency Inputs) (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 04, 2018 12:32 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Washington, October 3 : There is unlikely to be any changes in America's policy on suspension of aid to Pakistan until it makes substantial progress against terrorists and their safe havens, the Trump administration has told Islamabad as the two countries try to reset their strained ties. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, during their meetings with Pakistan's new Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi here, are understood to have told the Pakistani leadership that in its assessment the US does not see any changes on the ground when it comes to taking actions against terrorists operating from its soil. Given Pakistan's influence over the Taliban, the Trump administration also wants Islamabad to bring them to the peace table. US Talks of Shared Goals on Pakistan Independence Day. Notably, the State Department till late in the night had refrained from issuing any readout of the meeting between Qureshi and Pompeo, which is understood to have lasted for 20 minutes at their Foggy Bottom headquarters. The White House normally does not issue a readout of the meeting that its National Security Advisor has with foreign leaders. Qureshi and Pompeo did appear for a hand-shake photo op before the meeting, during which they did not issue opening remarks. According to informed sources familiar with the development, the US side is upset because of Qureshi's faux pas about handshake he had with President Donald Trump during a luncheon in New York, which he described to the media as meeting. Meanwhile in a readout of the meetings, the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington said that Qureshi had a wide range of discussions with both Pompeo and Bolton which included among others bilateral and regional issues. Qureshi said that close engagement between Pakistan and the US had always been mutually beneficial and a factor for stability in South Asia. He stressed that, going forward, a broad-based and structured framework for dialogue would best serve the two countries' shared interests, the statement said. China Warns US After Airspace Violation in South China Sea. Noting that Pakistan and the US share a common desire for peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region at large, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's support for a political settlement in Afghanistan, saying use of force had failed to deliver results. Qureshi told Pompeo that "peace in South Asia, which was a common goal for both the US and Pakistan, would remain elusive until all disputes, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir, are resolved". Pompeo, according to the embassy statement, said the US looked forward to working with the new government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan in implementing its reform agenda. "In the context of achieving stability in South Asia, Qureshi briefed his US interlocutor about India's aggressive posturing in the region. "Qureshi underscored that, on its part, Pakistan remained committed to engaging India in a comprehensive peace dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute," the statement added. The ties between the two countries strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists. Last month, the Trump administration cancelled USD 300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups active on its soil. US Pushes Forward with Plans for Anti-Iran Arab Alliance. Steps to become a Lawyer/Attorney in Oregon Follow the step by step process or choose what situation that best describes you: Oregon Law Careers The Oregon Employment Department projects an increase of 10.2 percent in the amount of jobs available for lawyers throughout the state from 2017 to 2027. In 2017, the U.S. Department of Labors Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the average lawyers annual salary is $117,810. Projected openings for lawyers during this period are that 851 new lawyer jobs will be due to employment change, and 3631 openings for replacements, for a total of 4482 openings for lawyers across Oregon during the decade. These numbers represent a bright future for those who plan to become lawyers in Oregon. If this is your chosen career path, read on. Step 1 Get Your Oregon Undergraduate Pre-Law Major The Oregon State Board of Bar Examiners does not require that you obtain a bachelors degree prior to going to law school. However, if you plan to attend any law school accredited by the American Bar Association, you must have a bachelors degree prior to entry. Accreditation Any ABA-accredited law school will require that you receive a bachelors degree from an accredited college or university. If your school is accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, an ABA-accredited law school should accept the legitimacy of your undergraduate degree. Requirements and Standards You need not take specific courses, majors or minors while in undergraduate school. Some courses may end up benefiting you during law school if taken during undergraduate school, such as criminal justice, economics, business, philosophy, political science and communications. However, there is no ABA mandate that you take these or any other courses, as long as you receive a bachelors degree from an accredited school. Degree Options You may obtain a bachelors degree in arts (B.A.) or sciences (B.S) within any subject major you choose. Law and Paralegal Studies Legal Assistant Legal Studies Paralegal All Criminal Justice Programs Criminal Justice Administration Public Administration and Safety Sponsored Law and Paralegal Studies Legal Assistant Legal Studies Paralegal All Criminal Justice Programs Criminal Justice Administration Public Administration and Safety Sponsored Back to Top Step 2 LSAT (Law School Admission Test) in Oregon Before you can be admitted to any law school, you must pass the LSAT (Law School Admission Test). This standardized examination is offered multiple times per year. How to prepare You can find much free study help at the LSAT website. If you would like to take a paid LSAT preparation course, options throughout Oregon include: LSAT Exam Prep Courses in Oregon: Exam content You will encounter the following types of multiple-choice questions on the LSAT: Analytical Reasoning Here, you will be faced with four logic problems, each followed by five to eight questions. They test your ability to apply rules to a system, restricting your analysis to what can be logically inferred or is directly stated. This section counts for 25 percent of your total LSAT score. Here, you will be faced with four logic problems, each followed by five to eight questions. They test your ability to apply rules to a system, restricting your analysis to what can be logically inferred or is directly stated. This section counts for 25 percent of your total LSAT score. Logical Reasoning These sections are made up of 25 passages, each followed by a few questions. These questions test your abilities to identify an arguments main point, deduce what the author of the passage assumes, draw conclusions, and identify principals and spot logical errors. The two Logical Reasoning sections count for 50 percent of your total LSAT score. These sections are made up of 25 passages, each followed by a few questions. These questions test your abilities to identify an arguments main point, deduce what the author of the passage assumes, draw conclusions, and identify principals and spot logical errors. The two Logical Reasoning sections count for 50 percent of your total LSAT score. Reading Comprehension You must read four lengthy passages and answer questions about each passage. Your abilities to identify conclusions, tones, organizational structure of a passage, and the meaning of words are tested here. This section counts for 25 percent of your total LSAT score. Additionally, you will be asked for a 30-minute writing sample. This does not count towards your total LSAT score, but will be used by admissions personnel at the law schools you apply to in evaluating your suitability for law school. Application process The Law School Admission Council requires that you apply online to take the LSAT, which is given in November, January, March, June and July on Saturdays and Mondays. As of January 2019, Oregon testing centers are: Central Oregon Community College, Bend Oregon State University, Corvallis University of Oregon, Eugene Eastern Oregon University, La Grande Lewis & Clark Law School, Portland Umpqua Community College, Roseburg Chemeketa Community College, Salem Corban University, Salem Willamette University College of Law, Salem Receiving Your Score You should receive your LSAT score, which will total between 120 and 180, about three weeks after you take the examination. Per ABA law school data, these ABA-approved law schools in Oregon typically accept the following LSAT scores from new admittees: Lewis & Clark Law School: 158 University of Oregon School of Law: 157 Willamette University College of Law: 153 Back to Top Step 3 Go to Law School in Oregon Featured Law School: Sponsored University of Dayton Featured Program: Online Hybrid Juris Doctor: ABA-approved JD program; Prepare to sit for the bar exam in most states; Semester-long legal externship. Application process With a passing LSAT score, you are now set to apply to ABA-approved law schools. The Oregon State Board of Bar Examiners requires that, unless you are already a practicing attorney licensed elsewhere or a graduate of a foreign law school (see below); you must graduate from an ABA-accredited law institution. There are more than 200 of them across the country from which you may choose. They are listed in the LSAC Official Guide to ABA-Approved Law Schools. Credential Assembly Service All ABA-accredited law schools mandate that you utilize the Law School Admission Councils Credential Assembly Service (CAS) when applying for admission. It will help you to gather undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, online evaluations and other information necessary to apply to law school. The CAS will compile all of this information into a law school report and present it to the law school(s) to which you wish to apply. You may ask the CAS to create up to five law school reports for you. Accreditation The Oregon State Board of Bar Examiners says that you must have a J.D. or L.L.B. degree from an ABA-accredited law institution if you want to take the states bar examination in the future. There are exceptions, however. Graduates of US law schools that are not ABA accredited may take the exam if: You are a member in good standing of the bar of a reciprocal jurisdiction You have actively practiced law there for three of the past five years Graduates of foreign law schools may take the exam if: The requirements of admission to the bar in the foreign country are equivalent to Oregons You are a member of the bar in a foreign jurisdiction that uses the Common Law of England as its basis of jurisprudence You graduated from a foreign law school determined by the Board to be equivalent to an ABA-approved law school ABA-Accredited Law Schools in Oregon These Oregon law schools are ABA accredited: Course requirements All ABA approved law schools typically offer the same basic foundation legal courses including: Civil procedure and law Criminal procedure and law Constitutional law Contracts International law Legal research and writing Practice issues Legal ethics and professionalism Torts Property (real and personal) Trusts, estates and wills Online Law Degrees View Online and Campus Law and Legal Studies Programs (For students who choose to focus on a subset of law other than an attorney.) Internship Internships provide you, as a law student, with fun and educational practical opportunities on which you may be able to build after graduation. Your school may place you into an off-campus situation in which you work as an assistant to a lawyer, carry on some legal duties, or work in a government agency or legislature. These situations test what you have learned in class up to this point and allow you to use that knowledge in a practical setting. J.D. Degree Programs You must have a J.D. (Juris Doctor) or L.L.B. (Bachelor of Laws) degree from a law school approved by the American Bar association in order to sit for the Oregon bar exam. Back to Top Step 4 Take the Oregon State Bar Exam With your law degree in hand, you may now register to take the Oregon bar examination. (Actually, you can take the bar exam if you are expected to earn your L.L.B. or J.D. within 120 days of sitting for the exam. Simply file the Affidavit for Examination found on page 12 of the Rules for Admission of Attorneys in Oregon). Character Requirement Under rules of the Oregon State Board of Bar Examiners, you are not eligible for bar admission if you were ever convicted of a crime that would have led to disbarment if you had been an Oregon lawyer at the time. Preparation Oregon administers the Uniform Bar Examination (UBE). Free materials to help you study for this examination are available at the National Conference of Bar Examiners website. The sections to study are the Multistate Bar Examination (MBE), Multistate Performance Test (MPT) and Multistate Essay Exam (MEE). Other choices you have for bar exam review and preparation in Oregon include: Exam content The Oregon Bar Exam is administered over two days in February or July. It consists of: The MBE: six hours of 200 multiple choice questions on: Real property Contracts (includes Uniform Commercial Code) Torts Evidence Constitutional law Criminal law The MPT: you are provided with a file and a library and must complete a performance task. Skills tested include: Legal reasoning and analysis Problem solving Factual analysis Communication Organization and management Recognizing and resolving ethical problems The MEE- six 30-minute essay questions on subjects including: Agency & partnership Business associations Family law Conflict of laws Secured transactions Wills & estates Trusts Application Process Complete the Bar Exam Application. File by Nov 15 for the February exam and April 15 for the July exam to avoid late fees. Instructions are as follows: Complete and submit two copies of the Application Information Sheet Complete and submit six character and fitness statements with the address and contact info of your last five employers Include $750 fee by cash, money order or check payable to Oregon State Bar Include notarized affidavit (part of application package) Include completed, certified Certificate of Graduation showing that you have a law degree Include completed fingerprint card (instructions contained in application package) Include signed professionalism statement (part of application package) Submit everything to Oregon State Board of Bar Examiners, 16037 SW Upper Boones Ferry Rd, Tigard, OR 97224. Pass Rates The Oregon State Board of Bar Examiners has posted the following passing results from previous years bar examinations: July 2018- 73% overall pass rate Feb 2018 63% July 2017- 79% Feb 2017- 67% July 2016- 58% Feb 2016- 60% July 2015-60% Feb 2015-64% Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE) Within 24 months of passing the Oregon bar exam, you must take and pass the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE) with a scaled score of 85 or better. You must apply online with the NCBE to schedule this exam. Admission on Motion If you are a licensed attorney and bar member in a reciprocal state, you may be eligible for admission on motion (without examination) to the Oregon bar. Are you licensed in WA, ID, UT or AK and applying for admission on motion prior to December 31, 2015? If so, you must demonstrate active, substantial and continuous practice of law for three of the past five years Are you licensed in another US jurisdiction? If so, you must demonstrate active, substantial and continuous practice for five of the past seven years File the Application for Reciprocal Admission. Licensing and Admission to the Bar Oregon bar exam results are normally mailed to you within six weeks of taking the examination. You will be given instructions for your bar admission ceremony (if you pass). Back to Top Step 5 Youve Been Admitted to the Bar in Oregon What a milestone you have passed! You are now a licensed member of the Oregon bar! During your first Continuing Legal Education (CLE) reporting period, you must complete 15 credits that includes 10 practical skills, one legal ethics, one child abuse reporting, and one elimination of bias course. You must also participate in the State Bars New Lawyer Mentoring Program (NLMP) during your first year of practice. This program offers you individual guidance on what makes up a highly competent legal practice. Additionally, it promotes collegiality, professionalism and civility among Oregon attorneys. Your mentor can answer just about any question that you may have in starting out as a new Oregon lawyer. Where should you work, as a new lawyer in Oregon? Should you open your own solo practice, join an existing legal firm, work for a corporation, or what? There are two Fortune 500 corporations in Oregon, which may hire legal help from time to time: Nike in Beaverton and Lithia Motors, Inc. in Medford. Other companies with locations in Oregon that may need legal assistance include accounting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP n Portland, and Microsoft Corporation in Portland and Tigard. Law firms in Oregon that may be a great place to get your start as a lawyer include international business litigation firm Perkins Coie LLP in Portland; Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt general practice attorneys in Portland, Bend and Salem; multi-practice firm Harrang Long Gary Rudnick, LLC in Eugene, Portland and Salem; and business litigators Harris Velazquez Gibbens Attorneys at Law in Hillsboro. Legal specialty certification Specialization in a legal area is possible once you have your law license in Oregon. Depending upon the area in which you wish to practice, various associations are available to provide certification services. The American Board of Certification (ABC) provides certification services for legal specializations in business bankruptcy, consumer bankruptcy, and creditors rights. Passing an examination in your intended specialty area is required. Call the ABC at (319) 365-2222 or email them at director@abcworld.org for more information. The National Board of Trial Advocacy offers legal certification services for specializations in social security disability, civil pretrial advocacy, criminal trial law, family trial law, and civil trial law. Again, passing an examination within your specialty area is required. For more information, call (508) 384-6565. Requirements for maintaining license To keep your Oregon legal license active and maintain bar membership, you must complete 45 credit hours of Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) every three years. Five of these credit hours must be in legal ethics. One credit hour must be in child abuse reporting. One credit hour must be in mental health. Three credit hours must be in elimination of bias. Contact Jade Priest-Maoz at jpriest@osbar.org or (503) 431-6346 or more information. Court Systems in Oregon The Oregon State Court System is comprised of the following courts: Supreme Court Oregons highest court, conducts discretionary reviews of cases from the Oregon Court of Appeals, as well as direct review of circuit court decisions in death penalty cases, labor law injunctions, decisions of the Oregon Tax Court, some agency proceedings, certified questions of law, practice of law proceedings, and judicial fitness and disability. The Oregon Supreme Court is located at 1163 State Street, Salem, OR 97301-2563. Court of Appeals- This represents the first level of appeals after a trial court decision. The Court of Appeals hears all civil and criminal appeals from circuit court (except death penalty cases and Tax Court Appeals) and reviews the actions of state administrative agencies. The Oregon Court of Appeals is located at 1163 State Street, Salem, OR 97301-2563. Tax Court- This court has exclusive jurisdiction over tax appeals. This includes appeals of personal income tax, property tax, corporate excise tax, timber tax, local budget law and property tax limitations. It has two divisions, the Magistrate Division and the Regular Division. Most appeals to the Tax Court are filed first and heard in the Magistrate Division. Their decision can be appealed to the Regular Division. The Oregon Tax Court is located at 1241 State Street, Floor 3R (Magistrate Division) or Floor 4R (Regular Division), Salem, OR 97301. Circuit Court Each of the 36 counties in Oregon has a circuit court. Oregons trial court of general jurisdiction, the Circuit Court hears cases on all subject matters, both civil and criminal. Local Courts limited jurisdiction and not part of the state court system, includes: County Courts- Now found in just seven counties in Oregon: Gilliam, Sherman and Wheeler (which have jurisdiction over both juvenile and probate cases); Grant, Harney, and Malheur (have jurisdiction over probate cases only); and Morrow (has jurisdiction over juvenile cases only). Justice Courts-held by a justice of the peace in 19 counties in Oregon. Justice courts have jurisdiction in their county concurrent with the circuit court for all criminal prosecutions except felony trials. These courts also have jurisdiction over traffic, wildlife, boating and other violations occurring in the county. Justice courts have small claims jurisdiction for damages/money under $7500 Municipal Courts Found in some incorporated cities across Oregon. These courts have concurrent jurisdiction with circuit and justice courts over violations and misdemeanors committed in the city where the court is located. They do not, however, have jurisdiction over felonies. Municipal courts usually hear traffic violations and crimes; municipal code/ordinance violations; parking violations; vehicle impoundments; and minor drug, tobacco and liquor violations occurring within the municipality. Elective membership organizations Consider joining an elective membership organization that can assist you in your career growth as a lawyer in Oregon, such as: Back to Top Steps to become a Lawyer/Attorney in South Dakota Follow the step by step process or choose what situation that best describes you: Law Career in South Dakota In 2013, the South Dakota Legislature passed a Recruitment Assistance Pilot Program, offering attorneys a subsidy to live and work in rural areas of the state. This occurred after a report in 2011 that 65 percent of the states lawyers were concentrated in four cities in the state. Project Rural Practice was created to try to rectify this situation and lure more lawyers to more rural, less populated areas of South Dakota. It is in rural areas of the state that lawyers in South Dakota are highly necessary. Other bar association-related organizations that assist rural and low-income South Dakotans in finding legal help include Dakota Plains Legal Services, East River Legal Services, South Dakota State Bar Access to Justice, Sicangu Oyate Bar Association, and the South Dakota Legal Form Helpline. If you would like to become a lawyer in South Dakota and help out in these rural areas, or even work in the states larger cities, keep reading. Step 1 Get Your South Dakota Undergrad Pre-Law Major The South Dakota Board of Bar Examiners does not require undergraduate education before law school. The Board does, however, demand that your law degree comes from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). Because all ABA-accredited law schools require you to have a bachelors degree upon entrance, it follows that, in order to become a member of the South Dakota bar, you must first obtain a bachelors degree. Accreditation Any ABA-accredited law institution demands that your undergraduate degree is from a school that is accredited. In order to be recognized as valid, your school should be accredited by a national or regional accreditation organization listed with the U.S. Department of Education. Requirements and Standards You are not obligated to take any certain courses, minors or majors in undergraduate school. Advisors suggest that you take coursework that fulfills, challenges and interests you. This may be in any area, although some courses tend to lend themselves well to later law study. These include political science, philosophy, communications, economics, history, and business courses. Degree Options You must graduate with a bachelors degree in arts or sciences prior to entering an ABA-accredited law school. The major you choose is irrelevant. Law and Paralegal Studies Legal Assistant Legal Studies Paralegal All Criminal Justice Programs Criminal Justice Administration Public Administration and Safety Sponsored Law and Paralegal Studies Legal Assistant Legal Studies Paralegal All Criminal Justice Programs Criminal Justice Administration Public Administration and Safety Sponsored Back to Top Step 2 LSAT in South Dakota Once undergraduate education is completed, you may apply to take the LSAT, or Law School Admission Test. The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) administers this test at centers across the country. How to prepare for the LSAT Practice tests and sample question and answer sets are available for your review at the LSAT website. Other LSAT review materials in South Dakota may be provided by: LSAT Exam Prep Courses in South Dakota: LSAT Exam content The LSAT is a three and a half hour long standardized test with the following sections: Reading Comprehension Your ability to read and understand long text passages is tested here. There are four parts to the reading comprehension section, with each having one passage followed by five to eight questions on that passage. Analytical Reasoning Your ability to apply rules and facts to a system to tell what is and is not true is tested here. You are given four logic problems, each followed by five to eight questions. Your ability to apply rules and facts to a system to tell what is and is not true is tested here. You are given four logic problems, each followed by five to eight questions. Logical Reasoning Your ability to analyze and evaluate the validity of an argument is tested here. You are given 25 short passages, each followed by one or two questions. Your ability to analyze and evaluate the validity of an argument is tested here. You are given 25 short passages, each followed by one or two questions. Writing Sample You are also presented with a problem in which you must choose a position and defend your choice in writing. This section is not scored as part of the LSAT but is counted by the admissions officers of the law schools to which you apply as part of their admissions process. Application process Apply online through the LSAC to take the LSAT, which is given in November, January, March and June, on Saturdays and Mondays, in the following South Dakota test centers: Northern State University, 1200 S Jay St, Aberdeen, SD 57401-7198 South Dakota State University, Box 2201, Adm 324, Brookings, SD 57007-1898 South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E Saint Joseph St, Rapid City, SD 57701-3995 Augustana College, 2001 S Summit Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57197-0001 University of South Dakota, 414 E Clark St, Vermillion, SD 57069-2390 Receiving Your Score Your LSAT score, which will be between 120 and 180, should arrive at your address via postal mail about three weeks after you take the test. There is just one ABA-approved law school in South Dakota, the University of South Dakota School of Law. As an example, the median LSAT score of its freshmen in 2017 was 147. Back to Top Step 3 Go to Law School in South Dakota Featured Law School: Sponsored University of Dayton Featured Program: Online Hybrid Juris Doctor: ABA-approved JD program; Prepare to sit for the bar exam in most states; Semester-long legal externship. College Application process Next step in becoming a South Dakota lawyer is to apply to ABA-approved law schools. Having a law degree from an ABA-accredited law school is a requirement of the South Dakota Board of Bar Examiners before you will be allowed to take the states bar exam. You need not attend a law school in South Dakota it may be anywhere in the US, as long as it holds ABA accreditation. A complete list of all ABA-accredited law schools may be found in the LSAC Official Guide to ABA-Approved Law Schools. Credential Assembly Service The Credential Assembly Service (CAS) is a mandatory service provided by the LSAC that you must use when you apply for admission at any of the over 200 ABA-approved law schools nationwide. It helps to centralize all of your data, including your LSAT score, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. It also provides access to online applications of ABA-accredited law schools. Once you register with the CAS, you must have all of the undergraduate colleges and universities you have ever attended send official transcripts to CAS. Your law school report will be created by the LSAC and CAS, and will be sent to each law school to which you apply. This report will include: Academic credit summary Your grades each year Transcript copies GPA for each year Cumulative GPA Description of your overall grade distribution Mean GPA of other students at your school who registered with CAS Your percentile rank among those students Your LSAT scores (any cancellations or absences will be noted) Average LSAT score if you took it multiple times Copy of your LSAT writing sample Mean LSAT score for students from your undergraduate institution Accreditation The South Dakota Board of Bar Examiners requires that you graduate with a law degree from an ABA-accredited law school before taking the states bar examination. There are no provisions for graduates of non-ABA accredited institutions or from foreign law schools. These graduates are not eligible to take the South Dakota bar exam. ABA-Accredited Law Schools in South Dakota Just one law school in South Dakota holds ABA accreditation: University of South Dakota School of Law, 414 E. Clark, Vermillion, SD 57069-2390 Course requirements These types of courses usually make up the foundation of an ABA-accredited law schools curriculum: Civil Procedure Contracts Criminal Law Fundamental Legal Skills Property Torts Other courses you may choose as a second year student usually revolve around subjects such as: Constitutional law Evidence Legal Profession Commercial law Mediation Trial techniques Drafting and legal practice Online Law Degrees View Online and Campus Law and Legal Studies Programs (For students who choose to focus on a subset of law other than an attorney.) Internship Your law school may require you to participate in co-curricular activities. These may include an internship at an off-campus site, a legal clinic, trial advocacy, law review, moot court, or the like. Check with your law schools policies and procedures for more information. Law Student Registration Under rules of the South Dakota Board of Bar Examiners, if you are a first-year law student and intend to take the South Dakota bar examination after graduation, you may register with the Board on forms provided by the Board. You must pay a $50 registration fee, plus the fee required by the National Conference of Bar Examiners' (NCBE) law student registrant program for preparation of an initial character report. You are not registering to take the bar exam at this time. Degree Programs You must have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an ABA-accredited law facility in order to take the South Dakota bar exam. There are other options, such as dual degrees and legal concentrations, to JD students. Depending on your school, they may include: Concentrations and/or course tracks: Natural resources/Environmental law Indian law Relationship between law and government Statutory analysis Abstract analysis Business law Civil litigation Commercial law Constitutional law Criminal law/procedure Employment law Environmental law Real estate Estate planning Dual degrees: JD/Master of Professional Accountancy JD/Master of Business Administration JD/Master of Science in Administrative Studies JD/Master of Arts in Education Administration JD/Master of Arts in English JD/Master of Arts in History JD/Master of Arts in Political Science JD/Master of Public Administration JD/Master of Arts in Psychology Back to Top Step 4 Take the South Dakota State Bar Exam Are steps 1, 2 and 3 completed? You might be ready to apply to take the South Dakota bar examination, if you are at least 18 years of age. Residency Requirement The South Dakota Board of Bar Examiners has a residency requirement for taking the bar exam. You must either be a resident, maintain an office in South Dakota, or designate the clerk of the Supreme Court as an agent for service of process prior to taking the bar exam. Non-ABA approved law school graduates If your law school was not approved by the ABA, you are not allowed to take the South Dakota bar exam. Graduates of Foreign Law Schools If your law school was located outside of the United States, you are not allowed to take the South Dakota bar exam. Preparation When you take the South Dakota bar exam, you will encounter sections that are the same from one state to the other, and sections that are unique to South Dakota. The National Conference of Bar Examiners website offers free study aids for the national parts of the exam (the Multistate Bar Examination (MBE), Multistate Essay Exam (MEE) and the Multistate Performance Test (MPT)). Other bar review resources in South Dakota include: Exam content You will take the South Dakota bar exam over a two-day period (Tuesday and Wednesday). Tuesday you will take the MPT for three hours, one South Dakota essay question on Indian law, and six MEE questions for three hours. The MPT is a performance test that requires you to use a file and a library to perform a lawyers task. The MEE is the essay exam, which may cover any of the following subjects: Agency Commercial Paper Conflict of Laws Corporations Family Law Federal Civil Procedure Partnerships Sales Secured Transactions Wills, Trusts & Future Interests Wednesday you will take the MBE, with 100 multiple-choice questions in the morning (three hours) and 100 multiple-choice questions in the afternoon (three hours). The MBE may cover any of these subjects: Constitutional Law Contracts/Sales Criminal Law/Procedure Evidence Real Property Torts Additionally, the Board of Bar Examiners posts Sample Indian Law Bar Exam questions for your perusal at its website. Application Process You may download a Certified South Dakota Bar Application Kit here. It includes: Rules and Regulations for Admission to Practice Law in South Dakota South Dakota Application for Admission to Practice Law on Examination Deans Certificate of Study Instructions for completing the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) Character Report Instructions for SoftTest Laptop Computer Registration Instructions for requesting DCI and FBI fingerprint cards and having them filled out Affidavits for allowing/not allowing release of pass/fail results Instructions to pay $300 exam fee to the Board of Bar Examiners Instructions to pay $355 to NCBE for your Character Report if this is your first time taking the bar exam after law school graduation; or $500 if it is more than one year since law school graduation Instructions to pay $43.25 fingerprint processing fee to South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation Instructions to pay $100 Examplify Laptop Registration form fee, if using your own laptop for the exam Mail everything to: South Dakota Board of Bar Examiners, 500 E Capitol, Pierre, SD 57501 Pass Rates Expect to receive your South Dakota bar exam scores in about 10 weeks, by mail. The following overall passing rates for past South Dakota bar exams have been posted by AdaptiBar: 2016: 50% 2015: 56% 2014: 72% 2013: 87% 2012: 83% Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE) You must pass the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE) with a score of at least 75 within 25 months prior to the next scheduled bar exam. Admission on Motion If you are already a licensed attorney and bar member in another state, and have been practicing for the past five years, you may be eligible for admission to the South Dakota bar without examination. You must be a member of that bar in good standing, be familiar with the rules of the State Bar of South Dakota governing the conduct of its members, and submit the Admission Without Examination Application. Licensing and Admission to the Bar Once you have passed the states bar exam, you will be notified of the details of your bar admission ceremony. After that, you will be a full-fledged member of the South Dakota bar. Back to Top Step 5 Youve Been Admitted to the South Dakota Bar Congratulations on your monumental achievement of becoming a member of the State Bar of South Dakota! Litigation positions are often available for new lawyers across the state, and may be listed on the bar websites Career Center. Major firms across South Dakota include non-profit legal services program Dakota Plains Legal Services in Sioux Falls, general practice attorneys Neumayr & Smith in Gettysburg, and litigators MorganTheeler LLP in Mitchell. Although no Fortune 500 companies exist in South Dakota, many other companies are headquartered here or have large offices here and may be in need of legal counsel from time to time. The largest companies in South Dakota include senior health care provider The Good Samaritan Society in Sioux Falls, regional health system Avera Health in Sioux Falls, utilities corporation Black Hills in Rapid City, and household durables company Daktronics in Brookings. Legal specialty certification South Dakota recognizes certain companies that provide certification services for lawyers wishing to specialize in certain areas. These include the National Board of Trial Advocacy for specializations in trial advocacy, social security disability, and civil pretrial advocacy; and the American Board of Certification (ABC) for specializations in business bankruptcy, consumer bankruptcy and creditors rights. Contact the ABC at (319) 365-2222 or director@abcworld.org for more information on its certification process. The NBTA can be contacted at (508) 384-6565. Requirements for maintaining license The State Bar of South Dakota does not mandate continuing education for its members in order to maintain your license to practice law in the state. Court Systems in South Dakota South Dakotas Unified Judicial System consists of the Supreme Court, Circuit Courts of general jurisdiction, and Lower Courts of limited original jurisdiction. Supreme Court the highest court in the state, acts as an appeals court and administers the statewide court system Circuit Courts the general trial courts, with original jurisdiction in all criminal and civil cases. Seven judicial circuits exist in South Dakota: 1st: Buffalo, Brule, Aurora, Davison, Hanson, McCook, Charles Mix, Douglas, Hutchinson, Turner, Bon Homme, Yankton, Clay and Union Counties 2nd: Minnehaha and Lincoln Counties 3rd: Hand, Beadle, Jerauld, Sanborn, Kingsbury, Brookings, Miner, Lake, Moody, Clark, Codington, Hamlin, Deuel and Grant Counties 4th: Lawrence, Butte, Harding, Perkins, Meade, Ziebach, Dewey and Corson Counties 5th: Walworth, Campbell, McPherson, Edmunds, Faulk, Spink, Brown, Marshall, Day and Roberts Counties 6th: Bennett, Todd, Tripp, Gregory, Jackson, Mellette, Jones, Lyman, Haakon, Stanley, Hughes, Sully, Potter and Hyde Counties 7th: Fall River, Custer, Pennington and Shannon Counties Drug, DUI, Veterans and Mental Health Courts- under the Division of Problem-Solving Courts and the auspices of the Circuit Courts, these courts are designed to reduce substance abuse and recidivism among offenders. Small Claims Court- This informal court allows South Dakotans to sue for small losses of property or money (under $12,000). Elective membership organizations Also, think about joining one of the following South Dakota lawyer associations, or one like it that fits with your personal and professional situation: Back to Top Oct 3, 2018, 3:09am ET China's GAC delays American offensive GAC is worried about tariffs. At the 2018 Detroit auto show, Chinese state-controlled car manufacturer Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) announced plans to launch an American offensive in 2019. Fast forward by a few months to the 2018 Paris auto show and the company's North American expansion plans have changed. "There may be a delay. Maybe in the first half of 2020 we will go to the U.S. market," said company president Yu Jun during a discussion attended by Automotive News. Jun blamed the delay on the 25-percent tariff the White House recently started imposing on all goods imported from China. Before the tariffs, when GAC announced its American offensive, the government would have only asked it to pay a 2.5-percent tax on cars and light trucks. Automotive News adds GAC was already well on its way to breaking into the American market. It had started recruiting dealers across the nation. There's no word yet on how many signed on, however. The story is different in Europe, where GAC hopes to launch one of its brands in the not-too-distant future. So far, the tariffs on goods imported from China have had a far-reaching effect on the auto industry. Ford canceled plans to sell a Focus soft-roader with a "made in China" label. Volvo decided to source the American-spec XC60 from its flagship factory in Sweden rather than from a plant in China. And, General Motors will need to find a solution for the Envision if it doesn't receive the exemption it applied for. Investigators with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives continued Wednesday to do follow-up interviews and track down leads on Saturday night's explosion in Allentown that left a toddler and two adults dead. Authorities say more details of their probe are expected to be released Thursday. The ATF National Response Team has been assisting at the scene in the 700 block of Turner Street, Special Agent Charlene Hennessy explained in an email. "One of the things they are skilled at is recreating the blast scene by piecing the vehicle back together," she said. Lehigh County Coroner's Office employees walk the scene before the 700 block of Turner Street is opened Wednesday for the first time since a deadly explosion on Saturday night. (Mike Nester | lehighvalleylive.com contributor) ATF investigators will meet with the team on Thursday morning and within hours will hold a public briefing to share their findings, Hennessy said. A news conference is set for 11:30 a.m. in Allentown City Council Chambers at 435 Hamilton St. To be discussed will be if the explosion was a crime and any possible criminal intent of one of the two adults who died -- Jacob Schmoyer, 26, and David Hallman, 66, Hennessy said in response to two specific questions about that part of the probe. Two-year-old Jonathan Schmoyer was also killed in the blast. Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin earlier called it a criminal incident and authorities have said they believe the perpetrator likely died. In clarifying earlier vague statements from authorities, Hennessy said no one else was hurt in the incident. A dog was nearby but "did not suffer any major injuries," she added. Test results on debris gathered at the site, being analyzed by a lab in Maryland, should be available by the end of the week if not earlier, Hennessy said. That could confirm what sort of substance blew up. The scene was being "sanitized" before the streets are reopened to pedestrian and vehicular traffic, Hennessy say. Lehigh County Coroner Scott Grim on Wednesday took a final walk through the scene, Hennessy said. A report from the scene indicated the work was winding down. Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Security at the Pocono Mountains compound of a Muslim cleric living in exile opened fire Wednesday morning after seeing an "unwanted person" outside the security gate, Pennsylvania State Police said. State police said they were called for shots fired shortly before 9 a.m. at the Golden Generation Worship and Retreat Center. Fethullah Gulen, the man the Turkish government says is behind a failed coup against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, lives at the center, which is a gated 26-acre compound in Ross Township in the Saylorsburg area of Monroe County. Gulen, leader of the movement known as Hizmet, denies any involvement in the coup. Alliance for Shared Values, Gulen's nonprofit group, said in a prepared statement that the man appeared armed, and a guard fired a warning shot. State police said the unidentified man, wearing all black clothing, fled and could not be immediately located. No one was injured. The incident is under investigation. BREAKING: Heavy police presence setting up a perimeter around the Turkish compound on Mt. Eaton Road. Neighbors were told to stay inside and tell us theyre searching for a man dressed in black carrying a gun. @brcnews13 pic.twitter.com/pwpk43uj4z Nicole Walters (@imnicolewalters) October 3, 2018 WNEP reported police vehicles left, and troopers would only say they were investigating an "incident" at the compound. Last November, the Wall Street Journal reported the FBI was investigating an alleged plot involving former White House adviser Mike Flynn to return Gulen to Turkey. The Times in London reported Gulen's younger brother, Kutbettin, was sentenced this week to 10 1/2 years in prison for allegedly orchestrating the 2016 coup attempt in Turkey. Kutbettin Gulen denied all the charges. Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Kaitlyn Laumann was training to become a karate black belt, according to her mother. That's when drugs took over her life. Her grandmother testified in court Wednesday that the 21-year-old she called her "spitfire" acknowledged her addiction back in 2016. "She said she was going to beat this," the grandmother said in a letter to Northampton County Judge Stephen Baratta. A week later Laumann was dead. Her boyfriend, Anthony Xavier Johnson, admitted he gave her the powerful opioid painkiller fentanyl that killed her. On Wednesday, Baratta sent Johnson to state prison for five to 10 years. Johnson told police he did drugs with Laumann on Nov. 19, 2016, in his mother's home in the 100 block of Main Street in Northampton where he lived and Laumann was a frequent overnight guest. "I killed her," he said in a text after her death. He pleaded guilty to drug delivery resulting in death, a felony and a relatively new crime approved by the Pennsylvania legislature. Johnson was an addict who used drugs since age 12, according to defense attorney Janet Jackson. At his peak he used up to 14 bags of heroin a day. He spent time in prison, went through two rehabs and still hasn't been able to stay clean, she said. When the judge asked him why he should sentence him to less than five years in prison, Johnson paused. "I don't know how to answer that," he said. After another pause, he added, "What I can say is it's never too late to start trying. Sometimes it takes a horrible, horrible thing to start. ... I hope that one day I can just wake up and not be an addict." Johnson's actions not only took Laumann's life but tore apart her family's lives. Laumann's mother said in a letter to the judge she suffered a stroke after her daughter's death, a stroke she believes was brought on by stress. Her daughter-in-law committed suicide around the same time, she said in the letter. Laumann's brother said Johnson should have taken better care of her. "Kaitlyn's trust was violated and she paid a price," he said. In her letter, the grandmother said there aren't "enough adjectives or profanity" to adequately express the family's feelings toward Johnson. "Our family would just like justice," she said. The sentence was below the recommended state guidelines but was recommended by Assistant District Attorney Joseph Lupackino. The judge acknowledged that mandating strict sentences for people who provide drugs that cause fatal overdoses may not ultimately solve the opioid crisis. "It victimizes drug addicts who are not thinking 'criminatically.' Theyr'e just thinking about getting a fix and getting high," Baratta said. "(But) the legislature believes now because of the plague that drug use is in our community that there must be significant punishment for drug delivery resulting in death." Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @RudyMillerLV. Find Easton area news on Facebook. UPDATE (7:50 p.m.): The tornado warning has expired. Warnings for severe thunderstorms with damaging, 60 mph winds continue until 8:15 p.m. for northern New Jersey, including Warren County. ORIGINAL POST: The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning in Monroe and Northampton counties, including Stroudsburg, the Delaware Water Gap and towns in the northeastern corner of the Slate Belt, including East Bangor and Portland. Tornado Warning including East Stroudsburg PA, Stroudsburg PA, Sun Valley PA until 7:45 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/RQwleFF53C NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) October 2, 2018 The warning was issued just before 7 p.m. and expires at 7:45. Severe thunderstorm warnings have been issued for northern New Jersey, including Warren County, and advise that a tornado may be possible there, too. Radar indicated rotation in the storm as it moved over to Poconos. The weather service warns of damage to roofs, windows and vehicles. Mobile homes may be destroyed. If you're at home: Go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room away from windows. Get your pets, if time allows. If you're at work or school: Go to an enclosed, windowless area in the center of the building and as low as possible, away from glass. Stay away from windows and do not go to large open rooms such as cafeterias, gymnasiums or auditoriums. If you're outside or driving: Seek shelter inside a sturdy building -- not a shed or storage facility. Drive to the closest shelter if possible. If you are unable to make it to a safe shelter, either get down in your car and cover your head, or abandon your car and seek shelter in a low lying area such as a ditch or ravine. Avoid seeking shelter under bridges, which offer little protection against flying debris. Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @SteveNovakLVL and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Laois County Council may have to bring in a company from Northern Ireland to build new public toilets in Portlaoise, after receiving no tenders from any local companies to do the work. Its a bit amazing that a company from Northern Ireland will come down to do the work, its a bit sad that we cant get someone in our own area, said Cllr Noel Tuohy during the recent meeting of the Portlaoise Municipal District. Cllr Tuohy has asked the council to reopen the public toilets in Lyster Square, and was informed in a written reply from Ms Martina Bracken that the Laois council sought expressions of interest for the design, build and operation of a new public convenience, but there were no submissions received by the closing date of May 24. She said the water services staff are now in contact with a company, based in Northern Ireland, regarding this work. The company are preparing a proposal for submission to the council for consideration. Cllr Noel Tuohy told the meeting that four tourists pulled up in a car looking for public toilets and he had to send them to a pub. Its not good enough, its totally unacceptable, he said. Supporting the motion, Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley said that for a town the size of Portlaoise it has been a loss to the area since the toilets closed. Cllr Pauline Madigan said the mind boggles and it was very strange that there were no submissions. Cllr Willie Aird said that the old toilets were the site of antisocial behaviour. He said he would like to see a tender for design and build and keep the operation of the new toilets separate. He suggested that the council could put some funds towards a caretaker for the toilets. Please have it in operation by the next tourism season, he said. The tourist office was closed at the height of the tourism season for six weeks last year, what kind of message does that sent out? he asked, adding that the whole area needs to be looked at. Director of services, Mr Kieran Kehoe said that everyone at the meeting wanted the public toilets. However, he pointed out that it was not unusual for a town of the size of Portlaoise not to have public toilets and said that Dublin does not have them. What was there was not fit for purpose, there was a huge amount of antisocial behaviour and a huge amount of drug taking, he said. Mr Kehoe said that a modern facility was needed and it had to be well maintained. Cllr Tuohy replied that there wasnt any antisocial behaviour there when there was a caretaker manning it. Tidy Towns judges congratulated Portlaoise Tidy Towns success in retaining its silver medal status and had a special word of praise for the committee's Love where you Live motto. Portlaoise scored 309 points this year, up 304 on its total for 2017. Teamwork appears to be the basis of your success, commented the judges early in the adjuciation report. This was attributed to the almost 50 volunteers and the involvment of many local bodies and agencies. The judges commented on a range of projects that highlight the town's heritage. Portlaoise has a lot of history and it is wonderful to see this being brought more to the fore, said the report. There was praise for the blue and white bunting as exhibiting community pride in Laois. Main Street was praised for having a clean and bright appearance. The People's Park was praised as a site to behold. This is a wonderful serene restful place and yet so full of life, they commented. MORE BELOW PICTURE The judges said the awarding of bee and bug hotels, and nesting boxes as prizes in the Tidy Towns Estate competition was a great innovation. The committee was praised for highlighting the green flags award to schools and encouraged to give more detail in 2019. The judges commended the committee great feat in having the town in the top 10 of IBAL cleanest towns in Ireland is a great feat. It is all the more impressive considering you were 41st in 2013. You credit the council for their wonderful support. This is another great example of you highlighting your teamwork effort, said the report. The committee was also praised for attracting new volunteers from Portlaoise's diverse community. Well done on your very innovative way of reaching out to new members of your community by sending out multi-lingual text messages. It is heartening that this has now lead to you having active members from Poland, Slovenian and some African communities. Following on from this we can only wish you well in setting up your Junior Tidy Towns, said the judges. The report concluded by commending the committee's Love where you Live motto as a great rallying cry to get the town working together for the betterment of all. In their final words they acknowedged the great work of the late Chairman Cllr Jerry Lodge. We salute his efforts and his legacy, they said. Presidential candidate Sean Gallagher is back on the campaign trail seven years after he first began back in 2011. This time around he is travelling around in a large bus with a 20 foot high version of himself on the side with Leading with Purpose emblazoned along the side. Last Friday he was in Naas in the afternoon and was heading to Maynooth later that day. We have a definite purpose, he explained, when asked what the slogan meant. Read also: A Kildare town to celebrate links to biggest names in music Its around the values which we prioritise the values of respect, the value of responsibility, and the value of community. And to lead with that purpose to inspire individuals and communities around these three values. He said that one of the things he would focus on in particular would be disability. I grew up with a vision impairment and Trish (his wife who was present during the interview) has a younger brother with Down Syndrome. Well be launching an initiative, if elected, on December 3, a year long initiative to coincide with the international day for persons with a disability, and that is around a programme of supported employment, education and changing perceptions amongst the public around those with disability. He said the focus would be more on ability rather than disability. The past seven years have been busy for Gallagher. He and Trish had two small children, Bobby and Lucy. Bobby is five and Lucy is two, and anybody who has a five year old and a two year old knows what thats about! He spoke about getting back to having a normal sleep pattern! He also started a new business providing work space for office and industrial workspace to SMEs and multinationals throughout the country. Its very much in line with my philosophy of trying to sustain communities by having jobs in areas where many multinationals would never locate by supporting SMEs, he explained. Read also: Mechanic killed in Kildare tragedy On top of that, he took legal action against RTE in relation to the now infamous tweet that was widely believed to have scuppered his chances in the last presidential election. He assures the Leinster Leader that the legal action wasnt just for himself, it was to guarantee fairness for anyone who runs for public office. He also campaigned successfully for legislative change to help those working in the construction industry who got caught when the recession hit. Meanwhile, he said he didnt know what would happen with Brexit, but was certain that a united Ireland was on the cards, and within his lifetime. Outrage over a recently constructed pathway that joins Carton Avenue to a new housing development will dominate the forthcoming meeting of local councillors when they meet on Friday. A developer building a housing estate to the south of the 18th century Georgian Avenue has built a small bridge over a ditch between the estate and the avenue, and a pathway leading from the estate, over the bridge out as far as a pathway in the centre of the avenue. This, say angry locals, encroaches onto the Avenue and interferes with the integrity of the feature. And a new organisation Carton Avenue Preservation Society described as a group of Maynooth residents who are concerned and opposed to the ongoing negative developments occurring on Carton Avenue are organising a public meeting on Carton Avenue on Saturday October 6, at 11.00am beside the newly constructed bridge. The view from Google Earth, which predates the existence of the new housing estate. Cllr John McGinley has a motion before the Maynooth Municipal Districts meeting on Friday which claims that the development is unauthorised and illegal, as it does not comply with the Maynooth Local Area Plan 2013-2019. He noted that pathway from Limetree Hall is anything but a cycle/pedestrian route but in effect a roadway with a new bridge over the ditch into Carton Avenue which is wide enough to take cars. And he called for the County Council to order the developer to immediately remove the two walkways and reinstate the green area. Read also: Man in court after pistol found in Newbridge He has called for a gate to be placed to make sure only pedestrians can use the pathway and that trees which had been removed will be replaced with mature trees. Cllr Theresa Murray called for an investigation to ensure all planning conditions have been adhered to. The entrance, via a new bridge from the housing estate into Carton Avenue Read also: A Kildare town to celebrate links to biggest names in music Members of Leitrim's tourism industry recently attended workshops on Failte Irelands newest regional experience brand, Irelands Hidden Heartlands. The Ireland - Hidden Heartlands The Road Ahead workshops aimed to give members of the local tourism industry an update on the brand since it was unveiled in April this year and explore opportunities to use the new brand to boost tourism and drive visitor growth in their area. Local industry were introduced to the Irelands Hidden Heartlands team which has now been appointed and mobilised on the ground and heard about: the tourism potential of the region upcoming training and industry supports in the region the brands presence at Irelands most influential annual trade event, Meitheal, in 2019 tips on how to use the brand toolkit to maximise the brands potential. Failte Irelands Head of Irelands Hidden Heartlands, Paddy Mathews, said: We are bringing local industry and stakeholders up to speed on some exciting developments since we launched the brand and exploring how we can work together to transform the offering here over the coming years, driving visitor growth for the benefit of all in the region. These workshops are extremely important as now that we have a team on the ground for the Irelands Hidden Heartlands brand, our focus is on working closely with key partners, industry and communities in the area to develop the top-class visitor experiences that will be key to the success of the initiative, said the Failte Ireland leader. Failte Irelands first domestic consumer marketing campaign for Irelands Hidden Heartlands went live in early July. The multi-media brand awareness campaign, worth 1m, featured Leitrims Drumshanbo and Glenade Lough in a TV ad. As part of the campaign launch, the Ray DArcy Show on RTE Radio 1 broadcasted live from some key locations in Irelands Hidden Heartlands, including Carrick-on-Shannon. Further locations around Leitrim also featured in specially-commissioned editorial articles for the Irelands Hidden Heartlands campaign website, offering visitors a snapshot of what there is to do across the breadth of the region. The Irelands Hidden Heartlands The Road Ahead workshop for Leitrim took place in Lough Rynn Castle Estate, Mohill on September 25 last. Read Also: Gallery | Large crowds enjoy Lough Rynn Harvest Festival North Leitrim crying out for major tourism project Ireland holds the longest unbroken record of UN peacekeeping service of any nation in the world and this remarkable achievement will be recognised when the Irish Red Cross bestows a very special honour on the Irish Defence Forces at the IRC Humanitarian Awards Ball in November. Oglaigh na hEireann personnel were first deployed to Lebanon on UN peacekeeping operations in 1958 and over the last 60 years have completed almost 70,000 individual tours of duty in Lebanon with 87 members paying the ultimate price in the cause of peace. The Irish Defence Forces will be one of several award recipients at the Irish Red Cross Humanitarian Awards Ball where presentations will also be made to winners of six other categories including Humanitarian of the Year and the Corporate Impact Award. The closing date for nominations, which can be made at ball.redcross.ie, is Friday, 5 October. The Irish Defence Forces present day deployment with UNIFIL in Lebanon is due to residual tension in the region which dates back to the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1978. Irish personnel currently on the ground are engaging in mobile patrolling throughout the Irish area of operations including ground-holding, monitoring the Blue Line, and humanitarian operations. Operations are conducted on a high visibility, low profile basis. Oglaigh na hEireann Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Mark Mellett DSM says; our reputation as fair and impartial brokers, dedicated to the common purpose of supporting peace in South Lebanon is built upon the work, dedication and sacrifices of successive Irish contingents since 1978. The 70,000 individual tours of duty completed by Irish Defence Forces personnel have not been without great sacrifice. It is appropriate to remember the 87 members of the Defence Forces who have died in the service of international peace including the two soldiers who remain missing in action, one in Congo and one in Lebanon. Brigadier General Peter OHalloran will be Chairperson of the adjudication panel at the Irish Red Cross Humanitarian Awards Ball. He is joined on the panel by Professor Hannah McGee, Dean & Chief Academic Officer in RCSI and several Irish business leaders; Julie Sinnamon, CEO of Enterprise Ireland, Mary Rose Burke, CEO of Dublin Chamber, Liam OBrien Director of Strategy & External Affairs Vodafone, Dr Niall Holohan, Chamber of the Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce and Derry Gray, Partner in BDO. The Brigadier General notes; I am absolutely delighted to be a member of the adjudication panel for the Irish Red Cross Humanitarian Awards 2018. In my time in service where I have spent ten tours of duty abroad, I have witnessed, first hand, the work of the International Red Cross, where it demonstrated at all times respect for International Humanitarian Law. I have also seen, in armed conflict zones, where the Red Cross has delivered better living conditions for the less well off. The roles and the mission of the International Red Cross is seamlessly compatible with the values of the Irish Defence Forces. Tara Justin of the Irish Red Cross says we are delighted to be making this award to the Irish Defence Forces. The Red Cross is only too aware of the importance of the work carried out by extraordinary men and women in the Irish Defence Forces and the reassurance they bring to communities living in areas of tension like Lebanon. A relative newcomer to Limericks chemist scene, Daire Scanlon has grown the brand in the last eight years and plans to go further Tell us a little about Scanlons pharmacy: The company was founded in 2010 at the Ennis Road, just opposite the Gaelic Grounds. Im from the area, so I felt it would be an ideal location to start a pharmacy on what was then a greenfield site. Then I followed on with an opening at Chawkes garage at Castletroy in 2013. Finally, I decided to open at a vacant unit here in Mount Kennett Place, and opened here in 2014. This helped me kick off a concept called Limitless Health, which offers a saving of up to 60% on multi-prescription costs. Then that led to opening a pharmacy in Dublin, at Northern Cross at the Malahide Road by 2016. Out of that grew our healthcare offering, a drive we had to be the most modern, ahead of the curve in health technology. Across all our pharmacies, we would employ 45 people. What does your role entail? I am the company founder, chief pharmacist, managing director and owner. Where were you born and raised? I was born and raised at the Ennis Road, and I am still living in the area, with my daughter Sadhbh, 6, and my wife Louise, the operations manager here. What is your educational background? I went to school locally in Caherdavin Boys School, then Ard Scoil Ris. After that, I attended Trinity College. There I studied pharmacy. How did you get to where you are today? I graduated in 1996 before doing my internship that year with a local pharmacy. When I was fully fledged, I locumed around the country before moving to New York to practice and look to other pursuits. After that, I returned to Ireland in 2003. I always wanted to have my own pharmacy practice, so I went into business alone in 2010. Up to them, I was locumming nationwide for different independent pharmacies and groups so it gave me a good knowledge base. Tell us a little about the new machine you have in the Mount Kennett Place store: The machine we have is known as Charlie, a name given to it by my daughter. It puts together blister packs. Its all about weekly medication management. It picks from each compartment and checks the tablet six times before it puts it into the blister pack. Its a form of a heightened medication management system through blister packing. It guarantees 99.98% accuracy. Its safe, it enhances patient care, and cuts down on manual touch. Its the only machine of its kind in the country at the moment. Why did you install it? What drove us to this is we were looking after a number of nursing homes. We were looking to grow in that industry. We are medication management specialists through our IT evolution and the automated blister packing process. At the end of the day, patient safety and patient care is key. That drove me onto actually go the automated route along with updating the IT and being ahead of the curve in the country. Its Hiqa compliant. A hefty investment to guarantee patient safety. Why did you go into business alone? To drive on with patient care, and provide a personable pharmacy service to enhance patient care. I consider myself and innovator as well as a carer. If there are innovation tools to use, I will grab them. Im passionate about patient care. What are your goals for the next 12 months? In the next year, I intend, or we intend to expand locally and nationally. In business and life, who do you admire? From the healthcare side of things, for me, pharmacy is such a dichotomy of patient care and business. In the IT world, you look at Steve Jobs and Bill Gates. In the healthcare world, youd look at the likes of Marie Curie and Alexander Fleming. The people I look up to are historical and yet real people as well. Its very hard to pick out just one person. Are you guided by any particular motto? Esse homines, which is be human in Latin. Our mantra in Scanlons pharmacy is 'care, privacy and respect, which is hugely important to us. Away from work, what are your pastimes and hobbies? What spare time?! Seriously, I play sports, and I am into the arts and music. Obviously I have a passion going to Munster Rugby. Supporting my daughter in her theatrical pursuits. MORE than 400,000 was spent on ground investigation works as part of the multi-million euro revitalisation of Limericks OConnell Street, it can be revealed. Documents, including invoices, obtained by this newspaper under the Freedom of Information Act show just one company tendered for the contract to carry out the works after it was publicly advertised early last year. Tender documents state the purpose of the contact was to identify in greater detail the location and nature of existing buried services in the street, as well as the extent and details of the existing basements in the street and the existing obsolete sewer tunnel under the street. The works, which involved the creation of 85 slit trenches were carried out along the full length of OConnell Street from its the junction with Newenham Street and Barrington Street to Patrick Street. The site (OConnell Street) is heavily trafficked with a number of junctions and access to adjoining side streets. The site is underlain by various services and is also underlain by vaulted basements and a Victorian sewer, stated briefing documents which were issued as part of the tender process. Following the conclusion of the tender process in February 2017, Priority Geotechnical Limited was awarded the contract by Limerick City and County Council. Internal correspondence between officials within the council state the tender from the Cork-based company was deemed to be the Most Economically Advantageous after it was assessed by ARUP Consulting Engineers on behalf of the local authority. Priority Geotechnical Limited was also approved to act as Project Construction Superviser Stage on the works. The cost of the works, which were carried out over several months last year, totalled 443,762. 29 (including VAT). The monies were paid in full by Limerick City and County Council earlier this year. Plans for the multi-million euro revitalisation of OConnell Street are set to come before An Bord Pleanala in the coming months as the planning process is to proceed outside of the normal Part 8 process. The project, which will cost around 9m in total, is being part funded by the European Union with the remainder of the money coming from local and national sources. DEPUTY Maurice Quinlivan has expressed grave concern at the ban on garda overtime and the implications it could have in Limerick. The ban on discretionary overtime was implemented last week by Commissioner Drew Harris last week in a bid to keep within budget. Due to the lack of frontline gardai, overtime has become a fact of life, essential just to keep a station and a district functioning on a basic level. Stations cannot function properly without it, said Deputy Quinlivan. There are three months in the year left, including the Christmas period, which often sees a significant spike in police work, in increased public order issues, and burglaries, he added. Figures released under the Freedom of Information Act show more than 1.56m was paid in overtime across the Limerick garda division during the first half of 2018. A total of 839,684 was paid between January and March while 722,712 was paid between April and June. The total overtime paid to gardai in Limerick during all of 2017 was 2,501,551. LIMERICK Docks are to be the new home port for the historic vessel Ilen, which has sailed into Limerick after almost a century long absence. The Limerick designed and sole surviving Irish ocean-going wooden sailing ship, which first sailed Shannon waters some 92 years ago, was welcomed into the Docks by an enthusiastic crowd of supporters this week. The 56ft long wooden boat was formally greeted by Mayor of the City and County of Limerick James Collins and will winter at the Shannon Foynes Port Company operated docks ahead of a busy first full year back on the water in 2019. It has been painstakingly restored after a near 20-year project. We're delighted that the Ilen is back here in Limerick. It's been a labour of love really for the lads that worked on it, funded in part through Limerick City and County Council, said Mayor Collins. Its a ship that was designed in Limerick, it was rebuilt by Limerick people, sailed out of Limerick, recovered by Limerick people, renovated and now its back in Limerick and were delighted that she is here. Its fantastic. The Ilen was designed by one of Irelands greatest sailors, Edward Conor OBrien, from Ardagh grandson of Irish nationalist and MEP William Smith OBrien. He was captain of the first boat to sail around the world under the tri-colour of the Irish Free State. The traditional Irish built wooden ketch sailed out from Foynes to the Falklands in 1926 and spent all of 70 years there as an inter-island trader, ferrying passengers, sheep, cattle, commercial goods and all other commodities required by remote island communities. That was until her distinct lrish profile was recognised on a Falklands War TV news bulletin, over 30 years ago by one of her delivery crew from Cape Clear, Co. Cork. A campaign, spearheaded by directors of the Limerick based Ilen Project, Gary McMahon and Brother Anthony Keane of Glenstal Abbey, ensued and 20 years later, following a lot of sweat, funding and craftsmanship, the Ilen is back home on the Shannon. Project Director Gary McMahon said that the boat would be for the people of Limerick and, in particular, a learning platform for younger citizens for access to sailing and the marine environment. Its a community boat and its new home port is Limerick Docks and we are grateful to Shannon Foynes Port Company for its hospitality. Theres an entire learning aspect to and we will continue to expand our current educational programmes around this project with schools. We are hoping also that the city will embrace the vessel and we will need support with this. Co-director of the project Br. Anthony said the ship and crew received a very warm welcome today from the people of Limerick who are welcoming back their boat after a long absence. Weve been working together for the last 20 years, trying to get this vessel to the fine condition she is in today, ready to serve as a portal for Limerick city. Welcoming its new guest to the Ted Russell Docks was Assistant Harbour Master at Shannon Foynes Port Company Hugh Conlon. It's a day with a difference in the sense that we've had a ketch come back into the Shannon Estuary, a boat designed by Conor O'Brien in 1926 from Foynes Island. It was built in the area and it sailed from the Shannon Estuary, worked its whole life down in the Falkland Islands and it's finally come back to the Shannon Estuary after many, many years of hard trading in the South Atlantic, he said. It took the bones of 20 years to get her finally sailing back into the Ted Russell dock. And we're proud of the fact that we can lend a hand into the future and hopefully winter the boat here as time goes on and let her sail during the summer months, he added. A WOMAN shouted she would kill her ex-partner after a judge indicated she was refusing a Limerick garda application to revoke his bail. Following her outburst during a sitting of Limerick District Court, the woman was physically removed from the courtroom by gardai. The 36-year-old defendant, who is facing charges in relation to an incident over the summer, was brought before the court as gardai had concerns he was not complying with the terms of his bail. Judge Marie Keane was told he had failed to answer his mobile phone when called and that gardai believe a message sent from his Facebook account to his ex was an attempt to intimidate her. Addressing the court, the defendant said he did not answer the calls as the ringer on his phone was broken. He said he later phoned the garda station and insisted he did not send the message on Facebook Messenger. As the man was giving evidence, the woman began shouting at him as she sat in the public gallery. She claimed her ex-partner had previously threatened to kill her and she shouted if he was not remanded in custody she would kill him myself. Judge Keane refused the garda application and affirmed the mans original bail conditions. October is here and with it come some serious festivals and fun. Look out for Oktoberfest events, the Blue Angels, loads of live music, new restaurants, and more. Have a great week! Monday, Oct. 1st (Courtesy of Freds) Angler catches on... When: Dinner from 5 to 10pm Sunday through Thursday, and until 11pm Friday and Saturday Where: Angler, 132 The Embarcadero, anglerrestaurants.com Why: If you've always wanted to dine at Saison but found the prices to be beyond your pocket, get excited for a new dining destination from the same team. If the waterfront locale, bubbling fish tanks, and scaly taxidermy don't give it away, Angler focuses on seafoodand, unsurprisingly to followers of chef Joshua Skenes' Saison, wood-fired dishes. But unlike Saison, the menu is all a la carte, with options including antelope tartare, purple sea urchin, whole petrale sole, and a bone-in porterhouse steak. Barneys SF finally gets a Freds! When: Monday - Saturday 11am to 7pm; Sunday, noon to 6pm Where: Barneys New York, 77 O'Farrell St. (Union Square), barneys.com Why: Loyal Barneys shoppers in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago have long celebrated their purchases with Champagne lunches at Freds, the department store's restaurant that has eluded San Francisco fashion mavenstill now. At last the Union Square store is serving Fred's classics (think Estelle's chicken soup, Fred's spaghetti, and pomme frites). Make your way to the 6th floor and say chin chin. SalsaCrazy Mondays When: 7pm to 1:30am Where: Neck of the Woods, 406 Clement St. (Inner Richmond), neckofthewoodssf.com Why: It's not too late to sign up for this four-week salsa dance series complete with progressive lessons and all-night parties hosted by the SF Salsa Dance Academy. // Tickets ($60) are available at eventbrite.com. Tuesday, Oct. 2nd (Photography by Marianne Hale) Meet a Red Panda When: Multiple dates and times Where: San Francisco Zoo Why: IfOnly has put together a once-in-a-lifetime experience for animal lovers. Choose your preferred date for a private tour with the zookeeper in which you'll come FTF with a red panda and check out its custom-designed habitat at the SF Zoo. // Tickets ($325/person) includes a certificate of adoption, a collector's bracelet, and parking; available at ifonly.com/adventure. Modern Elders & Millennials at Work When: 6:30-7:45pm Where: Marines Memorial Theater, 609 Sutter St. (TenderNob), marinesmemorialtheatre.com Why: Because people are still relevant over the age of 35. Airbnb's millennial cofounder Brian Chesky and 52-year-old Joie de Vivre founder and legend Chip ConleyAirbnb's strategic advisor and author of the book Wisdom at Work: The Making of a Modern Elderhave a candid convo about work, creativity and innovation. // Tickets ($15-$65) are available at eventbrite.com. Free Play Tuesday When: 6-11pm Where: Brewcade, 2200 Market St. (Upper Market), brewcadesf.com Why: If Tuesday is a just-one-drink kind of day, make it count with free games when you purchase an adult beverage from the bar. // For more info, go to facebook.com. Wednesday, Oct. 3rd Studio Tour at Gensler When: 6-8pm Where: 4500 Fremont St., #1500 (SoMa), gensler.com Why: Of course you've heard of Genslerthe San Franciscobased architecture firm is the largest in the world. And you know they have a cool office. Tour the SoMa headquarters, which also houses Gensler's Brand Design team whose clients include the likes of Timbuk2 and SFO. // Tickets ($20-$30) are available at eventbrite.com. See Garbage Live When: 7pm (doors) Where: Fox Theater (Oakland) Why: It's the 20th anniversary of the band's sophomore album, Version 2.0hear them play it in full, plus some B-sides. Because Shirley Manson forever. // Tickets ($50) are available at ticketmaster.com. The Bay for Beto When: 5:30 to 7:30pm Where: Chambers Eat + Drink, 601 Eddy St. (Tenderloin), chambers-sf.com Why: Because Texas is this close to electing its first Democratic senator since anyone can remember. Go for eat, drinks, and DJ beats to support Beto O'Rourke, the skateboarding Texas politician who was once in a punk band. // Tickets ($50 min. donation) are available at act.myngp.com; for more info, go to facebook.com. Females in Food When: 6:30pm to 8pm Where: The Assembly, 449 14th Street (Mission), theassembly.com Why: Go learn from five powerhouse women who are rocking the restaurant industry. Enjoy Smitten ice cream and drinks, while hear from Lindsay Tusk (Quince, Cotogna), Robyn Sue Fisher (Smitten), Neka Pasquale (Urban Remedy), Jessie Nguyen (Little Window), and Kavitha Raghavan (Indian Paradox) as they discuss how they've created each of their successful businesses. // Tickets ($15) can be purchased on theassembly.com. Thursday, Oct. 4th Oakland actor Mahershala Ali stars in The Green Book and will appear at a screening of the film at Mill Valley Film Festival tonight. Mill Valley Film Festival When: Various venues Where: Through Oct. 14th Why: This is as close to Sundance as the Bay Area gets. Opening night at MVFF brings two star-studded events: Go say hey to actress Rosamund Pike at the screening of A Private War (7pm at San Rafael Film Center) or what's up to Mahershala Ali and director Peter Farrelly at The Green Book, about a black jazz piano prodigy and his white chauffeur (7pm at CineArts Sequoia). Also look for appearances from Stephen Moyer, Anna Paquin, and Moonlight director Barry Jenkins whose new film, based on James Baldwin's novel If Beale Street Could Talk, closes out the fest. // For more info and tickets, go to mvff.com. Happy Hour With Red Car Wine When: 5-7pm Where: Batch, 1648 Pacific Ave. (Russian Hill), visitbatch.com Why: Free tastings of sustainably harvested Sonoma wines and small bites are a just-perfect way to end a Thursday. But since this happy hour is also being hosted at Batchthe Russian Hill showroom founded by 7x7 Style Council honoree Lindsay Meyeryou can also shop while you drink. // Event is free; register at eventbrite.com. Sharktoberfest Nightlife When: 6-10pm Where: Cal Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Dr. (Golden Gate Park), Why: "It's like Shark Weekbut with more beer and more actual science." Participating breweries include Ballast Point, Laughing Monk, Magnolia Brewing, Triple Voodoo, and more. // Tickets ($15) and info at calacademy.org/nightlife. Joshua Tree Music Festival When: Through Oct. 7th Where: Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, 2601 Sunfair Rd. (Joshua Tree) Why: Music lovers and vanlifers descend upon Joshua Tree today for the 12th annual, ultimate four-day campout with live performances from acts you've likely not seen everywhere else. Tune in for raucous blues, afro-funk, hip-hop, jazz fusion, electro dance and more. // Day passes ($60-$90) and festival passes ($200) are available at the gate and online, joshuatreemusicfestival.com/fall-festival. A Nirvana Founder Plays Slim's When: 7pm Where: Slim's, 333 11th St. (SoMa), slimspresents.com Why: Remember Krist Noveselic? Well, the OG Nirvana bassist is back with a new band, Giants in the Trees, composed of members all from his native Wahkiakum County in Washington State. Check out their fresh Americana soundthink banjo, slide, and accordionat Slim's tonight. // Tickets ($20-$45) are available at eventbrite.com. Friday, Oct. 5th The Blue Angels! When: Noon to 4pm Where: Marina Green and San Francisco Bay Why: Technically Fleet Week kicked off earlier in the week with brass band performances, ship tours, and more. But let's be honest: It's the Blue Angels air show we care about. Dose up your dogs with calming CBD tincture and then gather at the Marina Green Festival Center for the best view of the three-day spectacle that starts today. // For more info, go to fleetweeksf.org/events. The What Women's Summit When: 9am to 4pm Where: Golden Gate Club, 135 Fisher Loop (Presidio) Why: F is for Friday and Female Empowerment. Join The What founders Gina Pell and Amy Parker for a day long bossfest with conversation, lunch, and wine. Sign up for panels and workshops on health, money, writing, family, sex, and more. // For tickets ($599) and info, go to events.bizzabo.com. Hardly Strictly Bluegrass When: Through Oct. 7th Where: Golden Gate Park Why: Jeff Tweedy, Ani DiFranco, Deer Tick, Los Lobos, Patty Griffin, Alison Krauss, and Mavis Staples are just a few of names taking the stage at this free annual festival. // For more info and the full schedule, go to hardlystrictlybluegrass.com. New Oakland Dinner Series When: 6pm and 8:30pm seatings, Fridays and Saturdays Where: The Gastropig, 2123 Franklin St. (Oakland), thegastropig.com Why: Oakland's popular breakfast and lunch spot The Gastropig is now open for dinnersortathanks to the Abstract Table, a new Japanese-influenced dinner concept that's popping up here on weekend nights. Expect laid-back evenings and artistic platings (five- and seven- course prix fixe menus are available) that focus on fish and ingredients foraged by the chefs themselves. // Reservations ($50-$70/person) can be made resy.com. Crocodile Dundee & Dinner When: 6:30-9:30pm Where: MKT Restaurant, Four Seasons Hotel, 757 Market St. (Union Square), mktrestaurantandbar.com Why: MKT Restaurant is kicking off its new Friday night movie series tonight with Crocodile Dundee and a themed dinner to match. Take the fam for shrimp on the barbie, Australian wine pairings, and Tim Tams for dessert. // Tickets ($59/person) include dinner, snacks and wine, and are available eventbrite.com. 25 Years of 111 Minna Gallery When: 5pm until late Where: 111 Minna St. (SoMa), 111minnagallery.com Why: The gallery-slash-events-spot is celebrating its quarter-century in SoMa with a special art exhibition and weekend of parties, starting with Friday night's opening reception and continuing into Saturday with an all-day (11am to 9pm) Qool bash with a different DJ every 45 minutes. Saturday, Oct. 6th (Photo by rawpixel on Unsplash) Live Archaeology Dig When: 10am to 2pm Where: Archaeology Field Station across from the Presidio Officers' Club, 50 Moraga Ave. (Presidio) Why: This free weekly series is coming to an end later this month, so get yourself to the Presidio to see a live dig in action. You never know what lies beneath this historic Spanish Colonial site. Bottomless Oktoberfest When: Noon to 4pm Where: SoMa StrEat Food Park, 428 11th St. (SoMa), somastreatfoodpark.com Why: Don you lederhosen (we know you have them) for unlimited beers, live music, lawn games, and food truck eats. Can't make it today? It's happening next Saturday as well. // Admission is free, but bottomless beer is $36; register at eventbrite.com. Rare Barrel's 5th Anniversary When: 1-7pm Where: The Rare Barrel, 940 Parker St. (Berkeley), therarebarrel.com Why: Toast the East Bay brewer's five-year mark with special anniversary brews, a dunk tank, food trucks, and a DJ. // Tickets ($25) include one beer ($5 additional beers), a commemorative glass, and raffle ticket; purchase at universe.com/events. Silent Disco Beach Yoga When: 5:30-6:45pm Where: Ocean Beach Why: Famed yoga teacher Janet Stone leads a waterfront class at golden hour to beats by DJ Drez. // Tickets ($33) are available at eventbrite.com. Endoscopy Device Market The Worldwide Endoscopy Device Market report is a comprehensive analysis report by experts which gives detail analysis of top players, solid segments, therapy and applications. This report offers a detailed analysis of the Endoscopy Device Market on a global level which is exclusively published by Market Research Future. The report discusses all the parameters that are likely to influence the market. The report users will gain access to drivers, restrains and opportunities that are expected to govern the market during the forecast period 2018-2022. The Global Endoscopy Device Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period. An Endoscopy is a procedure that allows physicians or surgeons to look interior parts of the organ. The technique is used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purpose. To perform endoscopy a specialized instrument is used named as endoscope. Various types of endoscopes and adoption of endoscope depends upon the affected body organ, for instance, bronchoscopes are used for lungs related problem, arthroscopes are preferred for problems associated with joints, and many others Endoscopy Device Market Key Developments Integrate Endoscopy July 2016: Integrated Endoscopy received clearance from the FDA for its nuvis Single-Use Arthroscope. It is the first FDA-approved disposable rigid endoscope. February 2016: Integrated Endoscopy demonstrated its nuvis Single-Use Arthroscope at the 2016 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Meeting in Orlando, USA. Johnson & Johnson Services Inc. September 2016: Acclarent Inc., a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, received FDA approval for ACCLARENT AERA Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation System. It is a first FDA-approved device to treat Eustachian Tube Dysfunction effectively. March 2016: Ethicon, a medical device company of the Johnson & Johnson, acquired NeuWave Medical, Inc. June 2015: Verb Surgical Company was created by the collaboration of Ethicon and Verily. March 2015: Ethicon, a medical device company of the Johnson & Johnson, enter into a collaboration with Google, Inc. Endoscopy Device Market Major Players Some of the key players in Endoscopy Device Market are Cogentix Medical Integrate Endoscopy J&J services Inc. Shaili Endoscopy Interscope Inc. Cantel Medical Micro-Tech Endoscopy Cognetix Stryker Olympus Karl Storz Gmbh co. Kg Fujifilm Pentax medical Richard Wolf Get Sample Report @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1967 Endoscopy Device Market Segmentation The Global Endoscopy Device Marketis segmented on the basis of type, therapy, treatments & procedures, application, accessory & processors, and end user. On the basis of type, it is segmented into flexible endoscopes, rigid endoscopes, capsule endoscopes, surgical endoscopes, and robot-assisted endoscopes. On the basis of therapy, it is segmented into colonoscopy, gastroscopy, arthroscopy, laparoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreotography, ureteroscopy, and cystoscopy Key Findings The Global Endoscopy Device Market is expected to reach USD 42,342.4 million by 2023 at a CAGR of 6.3% Flexible endoscopes segment market is expected to command the largest market share about 28.2%. However capsule endoscopes are expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 6.9% during the forecast period 2017-2023 The Americas holds the largest share of the endoscopy device market and is expected to reach USD 15,186.1 million by 2023 Asia Pacific is the fastest growing market, which is growing at a CAGR of 6.8% 2017-2023 Endoscopy Device Market Regional Analysis The Americas led by the U.S. dominate the market owing to the presence of large healthcare expenditure, and excellent reimbursement. Europe accounts for the second largest market owing to an emphasis on diagnosis, large healthcare expenditure, and increasing prevalence of cancer. As per Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Germany spent 11 % of the total GDP on healthcare in 2015. The Asia Pacific is the fastest growing market owing to expanding economies of countries like India and China. Asia Pacific is the fastest growing market, which is growing at a CAGR of 6.8 % from 2017 to 2023 The Middle East & Africa is expected to hold the least market share due to poor development of healthcare, and economy. The Middle East and Africa region are expected to be dominated by Gulf economies of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar. To Know More Enquire @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/1967 Major Table of Content Chapter 1. Report Prologue Chapter 2. Market Introduction 2.1 Definition 2.2 Scope of the Study 2.2.1 Research Objective 2.2.2 Assumptions 2.2.3 Limitations Chapter 3. Research Methodology 3.1 Introduction 3.2 Primary Research 3.3 Secondary Research 3.4 Market Size Estimation Chapter 4. Market Dynamics Continued. About Market Research Future: At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. Media Contact Company Name: Market Research Future Contact Person: Abhishek Sawant Email: Send Email Phone: +1 646 845 9312 Address:Market Research Future Office No. 528, Amanora Chambers Magarpatta Road, Hadapsar City: Pune State: Maharashtra Country: India Website: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com Gas to liquid (GTL) Marketrn Global Gas to liquid (GTL) Market Information Report by Product (GTL Diesel, and GTL Naphtha), by Application (Fuel Oil, Lubricating Oil, Process Oil, and Others) and by Region Global Forecast To 2022 Gas to liquid (GTL) Market Gas to liquid (GTL) Market Introduction: Gas to liquid (GTL) Market is expected to reach a market size of USD 16,374.5 Million by the end of the forecast period at CAGR of 7.42%. Gas to liquid (GTL) is a refinery process that converts natural gas or other gaseous hydrocarbons into longer-chain hydrocarbons such as gasoline or diesel fuel. The process converts methane-rich gases into liquid synthetic fuels by direct conversion or by using synthetic gas (syngas) as an intermediate through the Fisher Tropsch process. To Get Sample Report Click Here@ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/5053 Market Application: Gas-to-Liquid (GTL) Market is primarily dominated by five companies, namely, Royal Dutch Shell plc. (The Netherlands), Chevron Corporation (U.S.), Sasol Limited (South Africa), PetroSA (South Africa), and Velocys Plc. (U.K.). Royal Dutch Shell plc holding the first position with a share of 51.11% in 2016, among the top five market players. The company has a huge brand image, broad product portfolio, and strong distribution network around the globe. It operates through three segments, namely integrated gas, upstream, downstream and corporate. Integrated Gas Segment covers liquefied natural gas (LNG) and gas-to-liquids (GTL) production facilities. The company pursues a strategy of organic growth along with operational competitiveness and investments in the targeted areas. The company seeks to strengthen leadership in the oil and gas industry, while positioning themselves for growth as the world transitions to a low-carbon energy system. Recently, the company has signed memorandum of understanding with the Mozambique government to build a 38,000 bbl/day gas to liquid plant, which will produce synthetic diesel, naphtha and kerosene, and 50-80 MW of power to the local market. The increasing demand for energy and the growing population across the globe has necessitated the development of alternate energy sources to ease the burden on conventional sources. This factor driving the growth of the market. Increasing concerns about fossil fuel depletion is also expected to foster industry growth. Increase of stringent environmental regulations by several governments to control pollution and promote cleaner fuel sources is further expected to complement industry growth. Moreover, the increase in the application of gas-to-liquid (GTL) products, in various industries, boost the growth of the market. However, high cost associated with the development of gas to liquids plant may act as restraining factor of the market. Sasol together with Uzbekneftegaz and Petronas are building the Uzbekistan GTL plant. The 38,000-bpd plant will produce a combination of diesel and naphtha and kerosene for the aviation sector and will help the country reduce its dependence on imports of crude oil. The project is estimated to cost USD 4.5 Billion. Key Players: Gas to Liquid (GTL) Market are: Royal Dutch Shell plc. (The Netherlands), Chevron Corporation (U.S.), Sasol Limited (South Africa), PetroSA (South Africa), Velocys Plc. (U.K.), ORYX GTL (Qatar), OLTIN YOL GTL (Uzbekistan) and others. Make an inquiry for buying this report @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/check-discount/5053 Regional Analysis: Based on region, GTL market has been segmented as the U.S., Qatar, South Africa, Nigeria, and Malaysia. Qatar dominates the Gas to liquid (GTL) market. Presently, two GTL plants operate in Qatar. One of the plants is in Ras Laffan Industrial City, operated by Oryx, a joint venture between Qatar Petroleum (51 percent) and Sasol of South Africa (49 percent). This plant has the capacity to produce 34,000 barrels per day of liquids (24,000 barrels of GTL diesel, 9,000 barrels of naphtha and 1,000 barrels of liquefied petroleum gas). The second plant is also in the same city, operated by Qatar Petroleum and Shell. South-Africa was the second largest market for the gas-to-liquid. In Mossel Bay town, South Africa, PetroSA, operates the GTL plant. It produces 45,000 barrels per day, which includes diesel, gasoline, kerosene and specialty products. Moreover, U.S. is also another major market for the GTL. Currently, two GTL plants operate in the U.S. One of the plants is in Lake Charles, Louisiana, operated by Juniper GTL and is expected to produce 1,100 bpd of refined products, including waxes, drilling fluids, distillate and naphtha, from natural gas. Another plant which is in Port of Ashtabula, Ohio, is operated by Velocys plc. Competitive Analysis: Characterized by the presence of several well-established and small players, the global Market of Gas to liquid (GTL) appears to be highly competitive. Well established players incorporate acquisition, collaboration, partnership, expansion, and product launch to gain competitive advantage in this market and to maintain their market position. These key players compete based upon pricing, and services. Vendors operating in the market strive to deliver the best quality products and services based on innovative technologies, and best practices. These Key Players make a substantial investment for R&D and to secure a guaranteed resource for the customers. Gas to liquid (GTL) market demonstrates a high growth potential which is likely to attract many entrants to the market resulting in to intensified competition further. Market Segmentation: Based on product, Gas to liquid (GTL) market has been divided as GTL diesel, and GTL naphtha. GTL diesel dominates the product segment of global market. Gas to liquid diesel is superior than conventional refinery diesel produced from crude oil, in quality. GTL diesel fuels produced by the Fischer-Tropsch process, typically, have very high cetane number and zero sulfur content, and can provide reductions in particulate and NOx emissions. Based on application, the market has been segmented Fuel Oil, Lubricating Oil, Process Oil, and Others. Fuel Oil dominates the application segment of global market. Fuel oil is the advanced heavy fuel oil used in boilers and other equipment for generating heat and energy in manufacturing operations and processes. It helps improve the reliability and the performance of the entire boiler system, from the storage tank right to the chimney. Segmentation by Regions: Comprises Geographical regions U.S., Qatar, South Africa, Nigeria, and Malaysia. Table of Content: 1 Executive Summary 2 Scope of the Report 2.1 Market Definition 2.2 Scope Of The Study 2.2.1 Definition 2.2.2 Research Objective 2.2.3 Assumptions 2.2.4 Limitations 2.3 Research Process 2.3.1 Primary Research 2.3.2 Secondary Research 2.4 Market Size Estimation 2.5 Forecast Model 3 Market Landscape 3.1 Porters Five Forces Analysis 3.1.1 Threat Of New Entrants 3.1.2 Bargaining Power Of Buyers 3.1.3 Bargaining Power Of Suppliers 3.1.4 Threat Of Substitutes 3.1.5 Segment Rivalry 3.2 Value Chain/Supply Chain Analysis 4 Market Dynamics 4.1 Introduction 4.2 Market Drivers 4.3 Market Restraints 4.4 Market Opportunities 4.5 Market Trends 5 Global Gas To Liquid Market, By Product 5.1 Introduction 5.2 GTL Diesel 5.2.1 Market Estimates & Forecast, 2018-2023 5.2.2 Market Estimates & Forecast by Region, 2018-2023 5.3 GTL Naphtha 5.3.1 Market Estimates & Forecast, 2018-2023 5.3.2 Market Estimates & Forecast by Region, 2018-2023 Table of Content to be Continue., Complete Summary of this Report @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/gas-to-liquid-market-5053 About Market Research Future: At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services. MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. THANK YOU Media Contact Company Name: Market Research Future Contact Person: Abhishek Sawant Email: Send Email Phone: +1 646 845 9312 Address:Market Research Future Office No. 528, Amanora Chambers Magarpatta Road, Hadapsar City: Pune State: Maharashtra Country: India Website: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/5053 Part of one of the inscriptions found at Kom Ombo, a temple in southern Egypt. The image at the top of the inscription appears to show the king Seti I with the gods Horus and Sobek. A giant stone engraving that fits together like a jigsaw puzzle, found in a temple in southern Egypt, may reveal new information about a pharaoh named Seti I, who launched a series of military campaigns in North Africa and the Middle East after he became pharaoh in about 1289 or 1288 B.C., several Egyptologists told Live Science. The engraving has both drawings and hieroglyphs on it; the engraving mentions an event that happened during the reign of Horemheb, an elite general in King Tut's army who eventually became a pharaoh. Archaeologists with the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities discovered the engraving while conducting a groundwater-lowering project in Aswan; inside Kom Ombo, a temple dedicated to the god Horus and a crocodile-headed god named Sobek. The temple dates back 2,300 years; the engraving may have originally been in an earlier temple, now lost, at Kom Ombo that was located on the same spot as the later temple. [The 25 Most Mysterious Archaeological Finds on Earth] Live Science sent images released by the ministry on Sept. 30 to several Egyptologists who gave their perspectives on what the inscriptions say. In another inscription discovered at Kom Ombo, Seti I is shown worshiping the gods Horus and a crocodile-headed god named Sobek, according to Egyptologist Peter Brand. (Image credit: Egyptian Antiquities Ministry) "This is an exciting discovery and may be historically important," said Peter Brand, a professor of ancient history at the University of Memphis in Tennessee. The engraving, which still has yellow paint on it despite the passage of 3,300 years of time, shows Seti I worshipping Sobek and Horus, said Brand, noting that it appears to date to early in Seti I's reign. "This [inscription] proves that the double cult of these two gods [Horus and Sobek] was already established at Kom Ombo in the 19th Dynasty of the New Kingdom period, more than 1,000 years [before] the later temple was built," Brand told Live Science. Brand can't tell from the photos precisely what the inscription says but "this was a major royal inscription and likely contains some kind of royal decree about the king's activities in the region, perhaps a dedication to the temple of Horus and Sobek [at] Kom Ombo," Brand said. Another inscription left by Seti I (also spelled Sety I) was discovered in the past at a site called Gebel es-Silsilah, which is located to the north of Kom Ombo. "Perhaps Sety was traveling through his realm in Year One [of his reign] and made stops at Gebel es-Silsilah and then at Kom Ombo on his way south from Thebes, modern Luxor," Brand said. Another part of the smaller inscription found at Kom Ombo has yellow paint on it despite the passage of about 3,300 years of time. (Image credit: Egyptian Antiquities Ministry) It "would be wonderful if the text [of the inscription] contains a report on the king's military activity," Brand said, noting that Seti came from a family of military generals, and after he became pharaoh, he launched military campaigns to conquer Libya, Canaan, Syria and Nubia. The inscription mentions Horemheb, who was pharaoh until around 1293 B.C., according to the statement. Aidan Dodson, an Egyptology professor at the University of Bristol, could tell that it mentions Horemheb on several occasions and appears to discuss an event that happened during Horemhebs reign. Dodson discovered that the giant engraving fits together like a jigsaw puzzle and sent a reconstruction to Live Science. Dodson said he will need to see better quality photos of the inscription to tell precisely what it says. Rather then two engravings, there is one giant engraving that fits together like a jigsaw puzzle, Aidan Dodson, of the University of Bristol, has determined. (Image credit: Egyptian Antiquities Ministry/Reconstruction by Aidan Dodson) From General to Pharaoh Horemheb "was in fact the highest general in King Tut's army during Tut's reign. He became king by marrying into the royal family, and being head of the army probably also didn't hurt his chances of becoming pharaoh, either," Ronald Leprohon, professor of Egyptology at the University of Toronto, told Live Science. Precisely how long Horemhebs reign as pharaoh lasted is a question that Egyptologists have long debated and the inscription, which Dodson says appears to include a date for an event that happened during Horemhebs reign, may help answer this. In addition to the giant jigsaw puzzle inscription a statement released by the ministry suggests that another inscription that dates to the reign of Ptolemy IV (reign 222205 B.C.) was also discovered at Kom Ombo. Pictures of this inscription have not been released. Editor's Note: This article was updated with new information suggesting the two stone slabs fit together into one giant engraving. Originally published on Live Science. A 1954 letter by Einstein, in which he pushed back on religious ideas like a personal God, is set to go up for auction A handwritten letter in which Albert Einstein grappled with God, the Bible and his own Jewish identity will go up for auction on Dec. 4 at Christie's auction house in New York City. This infamous "God Letter," penned a year before Einstein's death in 1955, is expected to sell for between $1 million and $1.5 million, according to a statement from Christie's. Einstein penned the letter in January 1954 to religious philosopher Erik Gutkind after reading "a great deal" of Gutkind's book "Choose Life: The Biblical Call to Revolt" (Schuman, 1952). While Einstein began his letter (written in German) by praising Gutkind for sharing a common impulse of "striving for the improvement and refinement of existence," he soon took issue with Gutkind's religious ideals. "The word God is for me nothing but the expression and product of human weaknesses, the Bible a collection of venerable but still rather primitive legends," Einstein wrote (translated into English). "No interpretation, no matter how subtle, can (for me) change anything about this." Further in his letter, Einstein turned a critical eye toward his own Jewish identity, specifically questioning the assertion that Jews are a "chosen people." "The Jewish people to whom I gladly belong, and in whose mentality I feel profoundly anchored, still for me does not have any different kind of dignity from all other peoples," he wrote. "As far as my experience goes, they are in fact no better than other human groups, even if they are protected from the worst excesses by a lack of power. Otherwise I cannot perceive anything 'chosen' about them." Peter Klarnet, senior specialist in books and manuscripts at Christie's, said in the news release that Einstein's letter is "one of the definitive statements in the Religion vs Science debate" a debate that the physicist did not hesitate to join throughout his career. Einstein vocally rejected the idea of a personal God who concerned himself with the comings and goings of human beings, but likewise did not consider himself an atheist. In a letter penned in March 1954, he explained, "If something is in me which can be called religious, then it is the unbounded admiration for the structure of the world so far as our science can reveal it." Einstein's "God Letter" sold previously at auction on eBay in 2012, where an anonymous buyer purchased it for $3,000,100. Prior to that, in 2008, it sold at a Bloomsbury Auctions sale in London for $404,000 roughly 25 times its presale estimate, Live Science previously reported. This time, you need not be a millionaire to see the "God Letter" in person. Christie's will put the letter on public display in New York from Nov. 30 until the auction begins on Dec. 4. Originally published on Live Science. Dogs are smart. But they ain't special. Scientists recently examined hundreds of studies on dog intelligence and compared them to research into the minds of other smart animals. The researchers found that dogs are among the smarter carnivores, social hunters and domestic animals but that they don't stand out from other smart animals in any of those categories. The scientists reported their results in a paper published online Sept. 24 in the journal Learning & Behavior. Though a significant body of research has examined dog cognition previously much more so than for the brains of similar creatures they found little to justify the sheer volume of work that's been devoted to the topic, they said. "During our work, it seemed to us that many studies in dog cognition research set out to 'prove' how clever dogs are," Stephen Lea, an emeritus professor of psychology at the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom and lead author of the study, said in a statement. [10 Things You Didn't Know About Dogs] Lea and his colleague Britta Osthaus, of Canterbury Christ Church University in the United Kingdom, examined more than 300 studies of dog cognition. The researchers compared the studies' results with those from research into other carnivores, other social hunters and other domestic animals, "with a particular emphasis on wolves, cats, spotted hyenas, chimpanzees, dolphins, horses and pigeons," the study said. The researchers made specific comparisons between the different species in different categories of smarts: sensory cognition, physical cognition, spatial cognition, social cognition and self-awareness. The dogs did turn up smart, but not blazingly so. In many areas, though, the comparisons were difficult to make due to a simple lack of data. For example, the researchers noted that both dogs and cats are known to be able to recognize and distinguish human voices. But the investigators couldn't find any data to indicate which species can remember a greater number of distinct human voices, so it was impossible to compare the two on that front. Zachary Silver, a graduate student and researcher at Yale's Canine Cognition Center who was not involved in the study, told Live Science that the research provided "an excellent framework for future [comparative] research." But he added that he thinks the authors overstated the idea that an excessive amount of study has been devoted to dogs. "I don't think that dogs are overstudied. The field of canine cognition is still very young, and there is still a great deal to be learned about how dogs think and view the world," he said. "As a proponent of the comparative approach, I would argue that as a field we would be well-suited to increase our emphasis on species-to-species comparisons." There's a straightforward reason for scientists to be interested in dog brains, Silver said, and it's not that researchers think canines are animal geniuses. "In my view, the existing literature does not necessarily imply that dogs are unusually intelligent per se. Rather, much of the recent research on canine cognition simply argues that dogs' manner of thinking and reasoning about certain components of the world is distinct," he said. In other words, dogs aren't super-thinkers, but they are special thinkers. A lot of that canine specialness has to do with the history of dogs as a species, Silver said. They evolved alongside humans, and that experience likely shaped their ways of thinking about the world. By comparing dogs to humans and other species, he said, "we can better understand what makes us unique and what is shared across genetic or social lines." Originally published on Live Science. Newborn giraffes that have large and irregularly shaped spots have a better chance of surviving their first few months of life, according to a new study. Can you spot the difference between coat patterns of mother giraffes and their gangly, knobby-kneed babies? It turns out that similarities are surprisingly easy to find. That's because young giraffes inherit much of the detail in their spots from their mamas, and the distribution and shape of their spots determines how well the baby can hide from hungry predators, researchers recently discovered. Giraffes' spots are commonly thought to provide protective camouflage for youngsters as they hide in the dappled light cast by vegetation, scientists reported in the new study. But until now, analysis of the animals' spot traits and how they benefit giraffes has been, well, spotty. The researchers decided to do something about that. [All in the Family: Giraffes Are 4 Species (Photos)] For the study, scientists investigated wild Masai giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchii) at the Tarangire National Park in northern Tanzania. Masai giraffes are known for the complexity and individual variation in their spots, according to the study. Documenting and inspecting the spots on wild giraffes requires time and patience, lead study author Derek Lee, an associate research professor in the Department of Biology at Pennsylvania State University, told Live Science in an email. During the researchers' surveys, they went looking for giraffes by picking an area and then driving slowly along all the dirt roads. Once they located a group of animals, they would drive off-road to a distance within about 330 feet (100 meters) of the herd, and carefully maneuver into position to take photographs. "Depending on how far the giraffes are from the road, how large the group is, and how dense the vegetation is, it can take a few minutes to an hour," Lee said. Pattern recognition The researchers used image-analyzing software to compare 11 traits in the giraffes' spots, such as the number of spots, a measure of the angle of the positioning of the spot and smoothness of the spot's edges and size. They found striking similarities between distinctive spot patterns in young giraffes and in their mothers. This suggests that giraffe coat patterns were passed down from mother to baby. Records of individual survival in giraffe groups told the scientists more about the spots, enabling them to see if certain coat patterns were better at camouflaging vulnerable baby giraffes. They discovered that newborns with larger and more irregular spots had better prospects for survival, likely because their coats were more effective at camouflaging them from predators, the study authors reported. Field biologists often use coat markings as a way of identifying individual animals in the wild, but this study is the first to examine complex coat markings as unique traits that might affect the animal's chances for survival, Lee said. "My hope is that other scientists will use the same tools to measure mammal coat patterns to advance our understanding of what these patterns mean," he said. Wild giraffe mothers will only nurse their own calves, so the researchers were able to identify mother-calf relationships based on who was suckling whom. But only genetic testing could reveal which male giraffes sired the calves, so it remains to be seen how much the father contributes genetically to spot traits in giraffe babies, Lee said. The findings were published online Oct. 2 in the journal PeerJ. Originally publishedon Live Science. Twenty souls sprawled on the floor of the hotel wellness spa, swaddled in earth-toned blankets. Their eyes were closed. A jellybean-sized crystal rested on each forehead. Shhwwwoo! That was Deborah Hanekamp, audibly sucking up the air as she placed her hands on one of the young women, who trembled at the touch. A stylish woman in her late 30s, with a wrist tattoo peeking from her long, flowy dress, Hanekamp is a modern shaman, the preferred healer of New York's fashion crowd - though on this day she was chanting for an audience on Washington's K Street power corridor. She'd come to give a "medicine reading," a ceremony that at various points had her shaking a rattle and letting loose a musical wail, spraying strange, fragrant concoctions into the air and stalking the room with a leafy branch, which she rhythmically tapped on the supine bodies below. Among them was Myra Chung, 26, who later described the experience as connecting to the greater vibes of the universe. "It's all about energy, you know?" she said. "Kendrick Lamar said that. 'I can feel your energy from two planets away.' " Wellness, the 2018 Edition, certainly seems to be catapulting us further into the astral plane. Like the seekers of the 1960s and '70s, a new generation of self-care devotees is taking up ceremonial sage burnings (known in New Age circles as "smudging"), singing bowls, Japanese reiki, crystals, Mayan sweat lodges and ayurvedic massages. Sephora is selling a $160 rose-quartz Crystal Energy Comb. And the spiritually lost are seeking face time with shamans - in the case of Hanekamp's clients, paying $325 an hour for the privilege. "There's a more inner, profound searching that I'm seeing in myself and a lot of people around me," said Katherine Lo, the millennial executive behind Eaton Workshop, the new hotel/club/workspace hybrid in downtown Washington that hosted Hanekamp's ceremony. Eaton is now contracting with its own shamanic consultant. Lo's personal mid-20s emotional fugue took her to a Zen monastery, a famed Big Sur retreat, and finally, to a shamanic workshop in Arizona. There, she says, she was induced into a trance by drumming. "You learn on one level to just connect to nature and start to receive messages from nature," she said. "It's bringing information from the invisible," adds Francois Demange, the Eaton's on-call shaman. "Somehow, I believe that's what people are looking for - having access to more than what the world is giving them." "I hate to use 'cultural moment,' " says Lo. "But all my peers are searching for this, when they wouldn't have cared 10 years ago." - - - For most of us, "shaman" may evoke images of headdresses and trippy nights in the forests of South America. But there's no one kind of shaman. The word itself is said to hail from Siberia, and shamans have existed in many forms around the world for centuries: In Korean cultures, they're called mudang; in Yoruba, babalawo; among the Bedouins, fugara. What they have in common, says Susan Mokelke, president of the 35-year-old Foundation for Shamanic Studies in Mill Valley, Calif., is an ability to converse with spirits. "Shamans alter their state of consciousness," she says. Whether they do that with mind-bending drugs or with a steady beat of a drum, they aim to journey mentally into the depths of another realm. "They acknowledge there are two realities." Her foundation, started by anthropologist Michael Harner, promotes an amalgam of shamanism from Harner's studies around the world, says his widow, Sandra Harner. "It's acultural," Harner says. "It was important that we weren't stealing anybody's spiritual property." But the shamans of this resurrected New Age have broadened their services. In Miami, the spa at the Faena Hotel enlisted a Mexican shaman to oversee its "healing" treatments, which aren't exactly massages so much as spiritual greasings-up (starting at $300), complete with "Sacred Oils, butters, resins, healing stones and poultices," according to the menu. In the eco-chic Mexican vacation destination of Tulum, shamans lead sweat lodges known as temazcals, drawing seekers nursing broken hearts or stressed-out minds. You can find shamanic drumming playlists on Spotify. For some seekers, the allure of shamanism can be slightly more illicit: Some shamans, including Demange, offer ayahuasca, one of the buzziest drugs of the year and a potent ceremonial psychedelic that turns shamanic journeys, into, well, full-on trips. Some shamans don't even call themselves shamans - Hanekamp doesn't, for example - but for many it's part of their marketing. Colleen McCann is a former fashion stylist who now offers a full array of shamanic services - crystals, sage-burning, energy-channeling - for a client base of music executives, admen, fashionistas, Wall Street titans and staffers for the lifestyle empire known as Goop (she's its in-house shaman and crystals expert). One of her specific market niches: scrubbing bad energies from their wardrobes. It all started one night a decade ago, she says, when she was trying to get a 2 a.m. sandwich at a New York bodega. She was struck by a clairvoyant vision - a voice, really, that warned her of a fight that was about to occur over the price of the bananas. What followed was a long string of coincidences, strange encounters and psychic consultations, somehow culminating in her enrollment in shaman school. Speaking during a break at her own shamanic workshop in Nashville, McCann compared herself to social-media trendsetters, who can sway followers' purchases, clothing choices and more. "People say, 'You don't look like a shaman.' Which I take as a huge compliment actually, because we're seeing healers diversify and go into different spaces than they normally would." Her spin just happens to be one part Old World, and one part Instagram. - - - Dana Robinson, an Easton, Maryland-based teaching associate with the foundation, has been a seeker since his college days in Washington, in the 1960s. He dabbled with meditation and the Rajneesh movement (the same one chronicled in the Netflix series "Wild Wild Country"). Then he found shamanic traditions. Now, over the course of two-day workshops, he shows students how to journey to those worlds, too - one of which he describes to me as something like Alice tumbling down the rabbit hole. We decide to try to see whether I can journey. Robinson lays out some rules of engagement for entering this otherworldly place, telling me to try to find a hole or staircase in my mind, something familiar, and follow it to what he calls the "lower world." He beats a drum to help me mentally check out of this one. Shamans say most people can journey. But the rabbit hole eludes me. Though they were seekers in the '70s and '80s, Robinson and others from the foundation do not immediately rejoice at the news of a youthful new wave of shamans, whom they view with cautious skepticism. "People who do this work don't make guarantees," says Mokelke. "They're humble." After all, Hanekamp has dubbed her New York business Mama Medicine. McCann "prescribes" crystals to her clients. Still, she clarifies that seeing a shaman should not replace a visit to a doctor. "East and West medicines, old and new, both have a place and should play together," she says. "It's so important to try everything." Heather Mikesell, executive editor of the trade magazine American Spa, did. She ventured into a temazcal on a recent trip to a Mexican resort, where soul cleansing is listed on spa menus alongside massages and facials. The memory is hazy, naturally. "You're just sweating in there," she says, in the dark, with a bunch of strangers and a shaman, who posed just one question to contemplate: What did she want? The question was probably existential. But "it was intense," she says, laughing. "You're in there for like an hour, and you reach a certain point where you're like, I just need air." This year, American Spa listed "intentional" wellness and crystals as two of its biggest trends. "We're so tethered to technology, all this plays into that," explains Mikesell. "I think people really love rituals. I think we're going to look for other ways to feel 'in' our bodies. People want their chakras aligned." Laredo City Council came to a conclusion on their border wall quandry Monday night: They are not granting the federal government the right to access their land in the Rio Grande Valley. Two weeks ago, a deputy civil chief for the U.S. Attorney's Office approached City Council asking for the right of entry to the city's property in order to conduct surveys and core testing for a future wall. The City of Laredo owns 934 acres of land along the border in La Grulla, Starr County for its water rights. The land purchase allowed the city to expand its water intake from the Rio Grande. READ ALSO: City of Laredo-owned land eyed for border wall Then this year, Congress approved funding for 37 new miles of border fencing in the valley. The city's property lies along the path. When this item came to council two weeks ago, there were not enough votes either to allow the government on their land or to not since a few council members were not present for the discussion. On Monday, council voted down a motion to grant the feds the right of entry. This was against the advice of City Attorney Kristina Hale. "It's very clear that this is simply for them to be able to go in and do the testing. It is not to actually purchase the property or to do any type of condemnation proceedings yet. ... So this is something that we would recommend. It's, from what I understand, basically just a technicality, and it's something that they would be able to pursue, if they wanted to, in the courts," Hale said. The U.S. Army Corps and Border Patrol have also contacted the city asking that they allow the feds onto their land, she told council. It is required that surveys are conducted before the wall be constructed. If council had agreed to grant the right of entry, they would be able to negotiate the 18-month term down to 12 months, Hale said. All the other property owners in Starr County have consented to the right of entry, according to Hale. In the two years that President Donald Trump has been in office and passionately advocated for a "big, beautiful border wall" along the U.S.-Mexico border, no member of City Council has come close to supporting the idea. Council members George Altgelt and Nelly Vielma, the only two to support granting the right of entry, both said they were doing so for practicality's sake. "Putting on my lawyer hat and knowing the way that the federal government operates and how the laws are written, I know it to be a losing battle. Just to not have to spend more money on attorneys, it would just seem for the sake of efficiency we would proceed ..." Altgelt said. Vielma, an immigration attorney, agreed. "As much as I am an advocate for immigrants' rights and against the wall, it doesn't make sense for us to spend extra time and money from the taxpayers. ... We're still going to get that order from a federal judge," she said. Hale said that the case will likely be filed in the courts in Starr County, but that the City Attorney's Office would handle the work in house. READ ALSO: LPD: Auto-theft ring dismantled after nine-month long investigation Council member Vidal Rodriguez said he had to vote in line with the desires of the people in District II. "I'm against it. If it delays by one day, by two days, by minutes or by hours, who cares? We stand firm against the wall, and that's just who we are. That's our voice in District II. So I have to vote 'No,'" Rodriguez said. "... Sometimes we have to lose battles in order to create noise for our future. That we'll stand, we'll say no to a wall. Sometimes you have to fight battles that even though you're going to lose, but you do it for a reason to defend your people and stand up for them," he said. Mayor Pete Saenz added that maybe this would set the tone that they're tough and want no walls. He along with council members Roberto Balli, Charlie San Miguel, Alberto Torres, Alex Perez and Vidal Rodriguez voted against the motion. Julia Wallace may be reached at 956-728-2543 or jwallace@lmtonline.com Signs 12-Year Licensing Agreement with America's Largest Medical Cannabis Operator - Columbia Care LLC Melbourne, Oct 3, 2018 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Melbourne based nasal respiratory company Rhinomed ( ASX:RNO ) ( OTCMKTS:RHNMF ) is pleased to advise investors it has signed a 12-year exclusive licensing agreement of its nasal platform technology with Columbia Care LLC, the largest and most experienced provider of cannabis-based products and services in the United States (U.S.).KEY HIGHLIGHTS:- Rhinomed signs 12-year exclusive licensing agreement with New York based Columbia Care LLC, the largest and most experienced manufacturer and provider of medical cannabis products and services in the United States.- Agreement will leverage Rhinomed's patented nasal technology platform and Columbia Care's extensive medical cannabis research and development, manufacturing and distribution capabilities.- Rhinomed will receive revenues from products on a cost plus double-digit return basis. Rhinomed will also share in net revenues on a double-digit percentage basis.- Product development to commence immediately on multiple products with potential for product launches in CY 2019.- The envisaged portfolio of reliable, dose-metered cannabis-based medicines administered nasally will include over the counter and clinical applications.- Initial product offering to target significant unmet needs in a range of qualifying conditions and symptoms including Obstructive Sleep Apnea, PTSD, Pain relief, Anti-Nausea and other Sleep-related conditions.- Product to be distributed through Columbia Care's multi-state network of dispensaries, other U.S. based cannabis dispensaries with potential expansion (subject to separate agreements), through Rhinomed's extensive 9000+ U.S. based pharmacy distribution network.- This agreement with Columbia Care provides Rhinomed shareholders with exposure to the world's largest and fastest growing cannabis market - the U.S.A.The exclusive agreement covers the license of Rhinomed's nasal platform for the delivery of medical cannabis and cannabinoid compounds, analogues and derivatives in the U.S. market.The program will see Rhinomed's platform used to develop a range of unique nasally delivered cannabinoid products targeting a wide range of significant and unmet clinical and consumer health needs in the U.S.The companies believe that nasally delivered, dose-metered, targeted medical cannabis formulations open up a new pathway and opportunity across a range of indications for this class of medication within the pharmaceutical and over-the-counter consumer health/wellness settings.FinancialsUnder the terms of the agreement Rhinomed will optimise its platform for delivery of cannabinoid formulations and supply the customised product to Columbia Care. Columbia Care will manufacture and place specific pharmaceutical formulations onto the platform in its facilities in the U.S.Rhinomed will retain all intellectual property rights to its drug delivery platform. Any new intellectual property developed from the collaboration will be owned by the party responsible for the invention. Intellectual property invented jointly by Rhinomed and Columbia Care will be jointly owned by both parties.The agreed revenue model will see Rhinomed receive cost plus a double-digit royalty fee on a per product basis.In addition, Rhinomed will also receive a further double-digit share of net profits that varies based on the retail channel - with a greater share for product sold through its retail channels.Rhinomed notes that while it is too early to assess whether the impact of this deal will affect its 2019 revenues the company has been steadily working to unlock shareholder value by strategically opening up new industry verticals such as drug delivery, following the widespread and successful distribution and adoption of its Mute nasal stent product.Rhinomed's platform technologyRhinomed's patented nasal technology platform has broad application across a range of markets. The platform is protected by a family of over 60 patents, granted and pending, plus further design patents, brand and trademarks.Rhinomed has successfully commercialized two variants in sport and exercise (Turbine) and primary snoring and nasal obstruction (Mute). Mute has already achieved wide user adoption and retail distribution in over 9000 retail outlets in the US alone. Tens of thousands of people across three continents are already using Rhinomed technology to breathe and sleep better.Rhinomed's unique nasal platform has broad application across a range of opportunities including nasal drug delivery and consumer health. The company's Mute technology is used by people around the world to help them to breathe more, snore less and sleep better.About Columbia CareColumbia Care ( www.col-care.com ) is the ideal partner for Rhinomed in the US market. Columbia Care:- Is a patient centered healthcare company setting the standard-of-care for medical marijuana.- Is committed to four key pillars: safety, scientific leadership, excellence and expertise, and compassion and care.- Is 100% vertically integrated in nearly all markets in which it operates ensuring strict quality standards are upheld during every step of the process, from cultivation to production to sale.- Is a leader in product innovation using rigorous scientific techniques in collaboration with world renowned academic and medical institutions.- Provides the highest-quality and most consistent cannabis-based medical and wellness products.- Drives continuous improvements in products and services based on new clinical and scientific research and patient reported outcome data.- Is the largest and most experienced provider of cannabis-based products and services, reaching more than half of the U.S. population and has delivered over 750,000 successful interactions since inception.- Has highly-qualified professionals or licensed pharmacists, at every dispensary, who work with patients to develop individualized care plans.- Puts patients first, including subsidizing low-cost care for qualifying patients including senior citizens, veterans, terminally ill and those with financial need.Nicholas Vita, CEO of Columbia Care said, "We look forward to working with Rhinomed to expand our portfolio of high-quality and consistent medical cannabis products to include an additional delivery format. Columbia Care is committed to being at the forefront of product innovation and patient satisfaction in the medical cannabis industry, and our partnership with Rhinomed to develop these cutting-edge cannabis-based medicines is directly in line with that vision."Michael Johnson CEO of Rhinomed said, " We are thrilled to have this long term agreement with Columbia Care. Columbia Care are setting the standard of care for medical marijuana in the USA and we are excited to begin working with them to develop and bring to market a game changing portfolio of medical cannabis products.We believe that there is clear medical research support for, and a very real and significant commercial opportunity for nasal stents with medical cannabis formulations. Nasal delivery of cannabinoids opens up a new and exciting market opportunity and has the potential to set a new standard by providing a better and more reliable and repeatable dosing experience.This agreement is an important step in validating the utility and value of Rhinomed's platform technology. This exciting new range of products will sit alongside and complement our existing portfolio. It is an important step in ensuring that Rhinomed technologies deliver on our mission of radically improving the way people breathe, sleep, take medication and maintain their health and wellness."About Columbia CareColumbia Care is the US's largest and most experienced manufacturer and provider of medical marijuana products and services. The Company is licensed in highly selective and regulated jurisdictions and has completed more than 750,000 successful patient interactions since its inception. Working in collaboration with some of the most renowned and innovative teaching hospitals and medical centers in the world, Columbia Care is a patientcentered healthcare company setting the standard for compassion, professionalism, quality, caring and innovation for a rapidly expanding new industry. For more information on Columbia Care, please visit http://www.col-care.com About Rhinomed Limited Rhinomed Limited (ASX:RNO) is a Melbourne based technology firm with a focus on nasal, respiratory and breathing management technologies. The company is seeking to monetise applications of its technology portfolio in the Sport, Sleep, Wellbeing and Drug Delivery markets. For more information, go to www.rhinomed.global Follow the Turbine on Twitter at @theturbinecom Follow Mute Snoring on Twitter at @mutesnoring As a result of a recent ongoing investigation, the Webb County Sheriff's Office narcotics division, assisted by the Sheriff's Office patrol division, K-9 officers and U.S. Border Patrol agents, arrested two undocumented Mexican nationals in the 2100 block of Guaymas Avenue after they received consent to search a home. Romualdo Elias Santos-Guerra was charged with possession of cocaine and marijuana and Juan Pablo Guerra-Segura, also known as "El Tio," was charged with possession of a firearm after the discovery of a .45-caliber handgun, along with two grams of cocaine and 1.16 ounces of marijuana. Also seized was $7,159 in cash. TOKYO - President Donald Trump may have fallen "in love" with his North Korean counterpart Kim Jong Un, but Pyongyang wants more than just beautiful words. It wants Washington to prove its affection - by lifting sanctions. As Secretary of State Mike Pompeo heads to Pyongyang this weekend to prepare the ground for a second Trump-Kim summit, North Korea appears to have upped its demands, arguing that the United States should prove it is serious about dialogue by easing sanctions, before it takes steps to denuclearize. After a summit between the leaders of the two Koreas last month, Kim said he was prepared to permanently dismantle his country's main nuclear site, but only if the United States also took "corresponding steps" to build trust. At the time, it appeared that meant a declaration to formally end the 1950-53 Korean War, as a signal that hostilities between the two countries were over. But over the past few days, Pyongyang has signaled it may want more than that to move forward. A declaration to end the war should have come half a century ago, after the warring parties signed an armistice agreement, the Korean Central News Agency wrote in a commentary on Tuesday. "It can never be a bargaining chip for getting the DPRK denuclearized." North Korea refers to itself as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, or DPRK. By contrast, the Yongbyon facility is a "core" part of the country's nuclear program, KCNA argued. Yongbyon is the site of the country's only nuclear reactor, producing plutonium that can be used in nuclear weapons, but is also believed to house a separate uranium enrichment facility "The KCNA commentary shows that North Korea is constantly raising their demands," said Woo Jung-yeop, a researcher at South Korea's Sejong Institute. A similarly combative message was delivered by North Korea's Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho at the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday. "The perception that sanctions can bring us on our knees is a pipe-dream of those who are ignorant about us. But the problem is that the continued sanctions are deepening our mistrust," he said. "Without any trust in the U.S. there will be no confidence in our national security and under such circumstances there is no way we will unilaterally disarm ourselves first." Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the Workers' Party of Korea, underlined the point in an editorial Sunday. "Sanctions and dialogue can never go together," it wrote. "It is a contradiction that the U.S. is talking about the dialogue with its partner while ratcheting up sanctions and pressure on it. The U.S. should squarely see the trend of the times and make a proper choice." The United States argues the sanctions should remain in place until North Korea has fully and verifiably denuclearized. Vipin Narang, an associate professor of political science at MIT, said the comments "really puts a little bit of cold water" on the hope that North Korea might provide a list of its nuclear and missile sites in return for an end-of-war declaration. In order to build trust, North Korea, he said, appears to want "a transformation of the relationship, and the first step of that would have to be comprehensive sanctions relief." Experts say Pyongyang is not ready to offer a comprehensive list of its nuclear facilities, believing this would either be disbelieved or give the United States a list of future military targets. Instead it wants to take things at its own pace, offering up Yongbyon as part of a phased process where both sides take steps to build trust. The offer to close Yongbyon "doesn't get at the heart of their program. But it's a good first step," said Joel Wit, a senior Fellow at the Stimson Center who was involved in past negotiations with the North Koreans while working at the State Department. "Knowing the North Koreans, I think they have other things up their sleeve that they are willing to do." Experts differ about North Korea's sincerity: some like Narang say it has no real interest in disarmament and is instead just milking the process for whatever benefits it can get. Others say Pyongyang might be prepared to reduce - but not eliminate - its nuclear stockpile and missile capability, in return for economic benefits and security guarantees from Washington. The South Korean government and some experts go further, arguing that Kim might be prepared to completely denuclearize - in the right circumstances. Even some skeptics, though, acknowledge that the current dialogue has brought rewards in terms of an end to nuclear and missile testing and reduced tensions. The question is how long that dialogue process can be sustained, and how it ends - with a nuclear-free North Korea at peace with its neighbors, with detente and containment of a de facto nuclear-armed state, or with a return to open hostility. For now, Pompeo may explore how serious North Korea is in its offer to dismantle Yongbyon, and what it wants in return; and then to decide if that represents a sound basis for another meeting between Trump and Kim, something both leaders appear keen to make happen. South Korea's presidential Blue House has been forcefully arguing for an end-of-war declaration, and predicts that such a declaration could come after Trump and Kim meet. A senior Blue House official, requesting anonymity to discuss sensitive issues, told reporters Wednesday that Seoul had initially thought that a Trump-Kim summit might happen after the Nov. 6 U.S. midterm elections, but the fact that Pompeo is visiting Pyongyang sooner than expected "sends a positive signal" that it might take place earlier. At a campaign rally on Saturday, Trump said he and Kim "fell in love," adding "he wrote me beautiful letters." Pompeo, on his fifth visit to Pyongyang this year, is expected to meet Kim on Sunday, which experts said would be a positive sign. He begins his trip in Tokyo, and will also visit Seoul and Beijing. "Obviously these conversations are going in the right direction, and we feel confident enough to hop on a plane to head there," State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said Tuesday. Candidates for Texas Congressional District 11 on Tuesday were among those who weighed in on the proposed transportation of nuclear waste to West Texas. While the incumbent said he is in favor of consolidating waste that is currently stored at various sites, one of his challengers expressed concern about the possibility of accidents during shipment. The comments at the League of Women Voters forum come after the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission said it would review an application from Interim Storage Partners a venture between Waste Control Specialists and Orano USA. If the plan is approved, nuclear waste could be brought from across the country to a site in Andrews County. RELATED: Tour renews call against transport of nuclear waste U.S. Rep. Mike Conaway, a Midland Republican, said having the waste in fewer sites is something that needs to be done. He also expressed support of the process through which the decisions would be made and said nuclear waste has been transported for decades. I believe that our engineers are still up to the task of making that happen, Conaway told those who attended the forum at the Scharbauer Student Center at Midland College. In her comments, candidate Jennie Lou Leeder addressed financial and environmental impacts if accidents happened during the transportation. She said residents across District 11 have shared with her their thoughts about possible leakage related to the shipment containers. Its currently being stored at different facilities that are safe, said Leeder, a Llano Democrat. So the rest of the district where Ive gone through all 29 counties want to know why does it need to be moved to a temporary storage facility for 100 years. Conaway and Leeders opponent, Rhett Smith, said many people dont want the storage of nuclear waste in their district. The Eastland Libertarian mentioned possible health impacts related to radiation. We really want to consider improving the safety standards there and getting adequate health insurance for these workers that are exposed to this, Smith said. All our first responders could also be exposed to it. Another candidate commenting on the possibility of transporting nuclear waste was Steven Schafersman, who is running for Midland County judge. Schafersman, a scientist, also addressed the topic days earlier during a stop on the Protect Texas from Radioactive Waste Tour. RELATED: Seliger: Republicans have to fix school finance I have actively opposed the transport and storage of this type of nuclear waste for over 10 years, he said Tuesday. I was against the original licensing of the WCS site in Andrews County. The Commissioners Court last year passed a resolution stating it recognizes residents oppose the transport of high-level nuclear waste through the community, according to a previous Reporter-Telegram story. The elected leaders at the time also said they didnt have the authority over the federal issue. Schafersman, a Democratic candidate, is running against Republican Terry Johnson, who didnt participate in the forum and couldnt be reached for comment Tuesday evening. The two are seeking the seat of County Judge Mike Bradford, who isnt seeking a fourth term. Also opposing the proposed transportation was State Rep. Tom Craddick. Other candidates at the forum included those running for judge of the 441st Judicial District Court, Midland County Justice of the Peace for Precinct 1 and Midland County District Clerk. Another forum on Oct. 15 is set to feature candidates for the Midland ISD school board and Midland city council. Early voting starts Oct. 22 for next months election. Malaysian prosecutors will charge the wife of former Prime Minister Najib Razak with money laundering on Thursday, three weeks after he faced new allegations linked to troubled state fund 1MDB. Rosmah Mansor was taken into custody on Wednesday afternoon after a round of questioning by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, Deputy Chief Commissioner Azam Baki said by text message. He declined to say if the allegations are related to 1MDB, also known as 1Malaysia Development Bhd. Malaysia's revived investigation into 1MDB has centered around Najib who has denied the charges leveled against him. The upcoming allegations would be a first for Rosmah, who has been investigated in relation to the $266 million (1.1 billion ringgit) worth of cash and items seized from her family's home, including a 6.4 million ringgit diamond necklace and 51.3 million ringgit worth of Hermes bags. The challenge for Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who returned to power in May on a campaign to get to the bottom of the globe-spanning scandal surrounding 1MDB, is to ensure the probe doesn't become a "politically motivated" move, as his one-time protege Najib contends. Malaysian investigators have questioned former 1MDB President Arul Kanda, after laying charges in absentia against financier Low Taek Jho. Authorities are working on "private efforts" to bring Low -- painted by U.S. prosecutors as the mastermind behind embezzlement at 1MDB -- back to Malaysia from China, Mahathir was cited by the Star newspaper as saying this week. The police have also expanded their probe to look into the state fund's bond sales as well as mergers and acquisition deals, which brings in names they identified as PetroSaudi, Aabar, Tanjong and Genting into the case files. Last month, Najib was presented with 25 charges linked to more 2 billion ringgit of funds, a significant jump from the 42 million ringgit that became the basis of previous allegations laid against him in August and July. He has pleaded not guilty to all the accusations and is preparing his defense ahead of his trial that's set for February. South African Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene said he met repeatedly with members of the Gupta family, who have been implicated in a corruption scandal related to former President Jacob Zuma, and separately was twice pressured to sign a multi-billion Russian nuclear-power deal by former Energy Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson. Nene made his comments in a statement accompanying his testimony at a judicial inquiry in Johannesburg into allegations of corruption and so-called state capture that involves the Guptas, who are friends with the former president. Nene denied wrongdoing in his meetings with the family and said he refused to sign the agreement for Russia to provide nuclear energy, a plan that had been publicly backed by Zuma. President Cyril Ramaphosa came to power in February and has changed the top management at the likes of the revenue authority and the state power utility as part of his pledge to fight corruption. He reappointed Nene as finance minister, a move that helped bolster investor confidence after years of economic mismanagement and regular Cabinet changes under Zuma. Nene first served as finance minister until December 2015, when Zuma fired him, causing a plunge in the rand and bonds. Mcebisi Jonas, who was Nene's deputy, told the commission the Guptas offered him a bribe to take over the finance minister post, which he declined. "I believe that I was removed from office because of my refusal to toe the line in relation to certain projects," Nene said. "In hindsight, it seems that those projects may have benefited the Gupta family and other close associates of the president." Nene rejected pressure to approve the construction of as many as eight nuclear reactors, which would have the capacity to generate 9,600 megawatts of energy. The costs of the project, championed by Zuma, would have been "astronomical," he said in his statement. In July 2015, Nene twice declined to sign a letter from Joemat-Pettersson providing a guarantee to the Russian government on the nuclear program. "As a result of my refusal to sign the letter, I was seen as the person standing in the way of the nuclear deal," he said. "I was accused of insubordination, not only by the president but by some of my colleagues." A day before Nene was fired in his first stint as finance minister on Dec. 9, 2015, Zuma held meeting with cabinet ministers involved in the nuclear program but excluded Nene. A presentation at a later meeting that day -- where Nene was present -- didn't include input from the Treasury regarding concerns about the feasibility of the plan, he said. The presentation assumed an exchange rate of 10 rand per dollar, more than 40 percent weaker than the prevailing rate of 14.57 rand, he said. "If the price of 9.6 gigawatts was $100 billion, the understatement was $40 billion, or some 560 billion rand," he said. "This was a truly gross, material understatement of the project." Nene visited the Gupta's home in the Johannesburg suburb of Saxonwold four times as deputy minister, saying he regarded the visits as one of his tasks to "engage with different stakeholders in the economy," he said in the statement. The visits were short, initially to discuss the economy and then to talk about a contribution to a Gupta-owned magazine. He also visited the family in 2013, before the start of the family's ANN7 television channel. Zuma's son, Duduzane, was at the home "most times" but they didn't speak, Nene said. In mid-2015, Zuma summoned Nene to a meeting where an official from Petroliam Nasional, Malaysia's state oil company known as Petronas, was present and asked the minister to provide a guarantee to enable state-owned PetroSA to buy the Asian company's Engen refinery in the country. Nene said he would consider the guarantee but only subject to the normal evaluation process, according to the statement. Raises $1.95M in Share Purchase Plan Melbourne, Oct 3, 2018 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Bluechiip Limited (Bluechiip or the Company) ( ASX:BCT ), a leader in the development of sample-tracking technology for harsh environments, is pleased to report the Share Purchase Plan (SPP) announced on 10 September 2018, closed on Friday 28 September 2018 and raised approximately $1.95 million.The result of the SPP demonstrated strong interest from Bluechiip's existing shareholders and, together with the proceeds of the Placement completed on 14 September 2018, has raised a total of approximately $7.5 million before costs.The issue price under the SPP is $0.059 per new share and Bluechiip will therefore issue 33,091,519 new ordinary shares to successful applicants. The shares issued under the SPP will rank equally with the Company's existing ordinary shares on issue. The shares to be issued as a result of the SPP are expected to be allotted on 4 October 2018. Quotation of the new shares is expected to occur on 5 October 2018.Andrew McLellan, Bluechiip Managing Director & CEO, said, "The directors are delighted with the strong response from our loyal shareholders through their participation in the SPP. In conjunction with the Company's recent oversubscribed placement, Bluechiip has raised approximately $7.5 million and is now well funded to finalise its product portfolio, fully support our OEM partners' product release and to accelerate the opportunities and discussions we currently have in place."About Bluechiip Limited Bluechiip Ltd (ASX:BCT) understands that every sample - stem cells, blood, eggs, sperm and other biospecimens - is critical, so our objective is to manage each one with optimal quality in the most efficient way. Bluechiip's advanced management solution is the only one that provides sample temperature with ID in cryogenic environments to. Most importantly, this delivers confidence in every sample. Bluechiip's unique patented technology is a MEMS-based wireless tracking solution that contains no electronics. It represents a generational change from current tracking methods such as labels (hand-written and pre-printed), barcodes (linear and 2D), and Radio Frequency Identification. Bluechiip tags are either embedded or manufactured into storage products such as vials or bags. Each product can be easily identified, and critical information such as sample temperature, is detected by readers and stored in the Bluechiip software. In addition to functioning in extreme temperatures, the Bluechiip(R) Advanced Sample management solution can survive autoclaving, gamma irradiation sterilization, humidification, centrifuging, cryogenic storage and frosting. Bluechiip's technology has applications in healthcare, including in cryogenic storage facilities (biobanks and biorepositories), pathology, clinical trials and forensics. Other key markets include cold-chain logistics/supply chain, security/defence, industrial/manufacturing and aerospace/aviation. Bluechiip: Delivering confidence in every sample. Trial Bulk Sampling Programme Completed at Blackridge Perth, Oct 3, 2018 AEST (ABN Newswire) - A first pass programme of bulk samples weighing about 8.5 tonnes in total has been collected from Impact Minerals Limited ( ASX:IPT ) ( OTCMKTS:IPPTF ) Blackridge conglomerate-hosted gold project located about 30 km north of Clermont in central Queensland (see Figures 1, 2 and 3 in link below).- Approx 8.5 tonnes of samples collected covering the likely range of ore processing properties.- Suitable samples to be wet processed within a month.- Statutory requirements continue to progress for the purchase of ML2386 and for grant of Exploration Permits and Mining Lease Applications.- Scientific research confirms gold mineralisation comprises hydrothermal fine gold as well as larger transported nuggets suggesting conventional resource calculations may be possible.The samples have been collected at or near the gold-bearing contact (unconformity) between an upper younger unit of Permian conglomerates and a lower unit of schist, part of the older Anakie Metamorphic Group (see Figure 1 in link below).The samples were chosen on the basis of the presence of gold nuggets discovered by prospectors and also for their rock mechanics properties to help determine likely processing routes for larger sampling programmes. Three main sample types have been identified: free digging samples; hard indurated (solid) rock; and clay-rich samples.The majority of the samples comprise free digging material of friable conglomerate and it is evident that large volumes of this material are present on Impact's licences. These samples will be wet processed in a facility in Queensland within the next month. Further consideration will be given to the other sample types in due course.Work by companies such as Novo Resources Corporation in the emerging conglomerate-hosted gold province of the Pilbara region of Western Australia, has shown that very large samples may need to be processed in order to overcome the signficant "nugget effect' that is a major factor in the exploration for this style of deposit. Impact has shown that the nugget effect was an important factor in previous exploration drilling at Blackridge (ASX Release May 29th 2018).Impact's Blackridge project now includes one granted Mining Lease and four Mining Lease Applications, which, when the appropriate Plan of Operations and the Applications are approved, will allow the collection of very large samples and early trial mining if results warrant.EVIDENCE FOR HYDROTHERMAL GOLD AT BLACKRIDGEPrevious exploration work by Denison Resources Limited (Herbert, 1989: Geology and Gold Potential, Blackridge, Clermont, Queensland #CR20347) which included extensive RC drilling, opening up of some of the underground workings, bulk testing, mineralogy, geochemistry and isotope analysis suggested that some of the gold at Blackridge may be related to a delicate interplay between sedimentary and hydrothermal processes.A similar phenomenon has recently been proposed for some of the gold in conglomerates in the Pilbara (unpublished public presentation by researchers working for Novo Resources Corporation).A detailed study of Blackridge was completed in the mid 1990's by researchers from James Cook University in Queensland who showed that some of the gold mineralisation had indeed been derived from hydrothermal fluids and were not transported nuggets. In particular it was documented that major faults and veins of iron carbonate (siderite) were closely associated with the gold and that the gold had been precipitated from hot fluids (Zhou et al Journal of Economic Geology Volume 89 pp 1469-1491).This is an important factor in exploration for this style of deposit and a cornerstone to Impact's forward programme. In particular it suggests that the gold at Blackridge may have a more predictable distribution and allow resources and reserves to be calculated in a straightforward manner.ABOUT THE BLACKRIDGE PROJECTThe Blackridge Project is an advanced conglomerate-hosted gold project that covers the historic Blackridge and Springs mining camps which produced about 185,000 ounces of gold from 1879 to the early 1900's from surface down to depths of about 70 metres in small shafts and related underground workings (see Figures 3 and 4 in link below).Further discoveries were made in the Clermont region including the Springs field in the 1930's and the total production from conglomerates in the region is estimated by the Geological Survey of Queensland to be more than 300,000 ounces of gold (ASX Release May 29th 2018).Impact's project covers 91 square kilometres and comprises one 100% owned Exploration Permit (E28806) and one Exploration Permit (E26066) and four Mining Lease applications (ML 100158, 59, 60 and 61) for which Impact has an option to buy 95% from Rock Solid Holdings Pty Limited (see Figures 4 and 5 in link below; ASX Release May 29th 2018).In addittion, the project also includes the newly acquired Mining Lease ML2836 which lies in the centre of the project area (see Figure 4 in link below and ASX Release 31 August 2018)). The Mining Lease, which is fully granted, will be acquired from a local prospector for a cash payment of $30,000 and replacement of environmental bonds of approximately $7,000 and is subject only to Ministerial consent, expected within about four weeks.The gold produced at Blackridge was mostly hosted in basal conglomerates of Permian-aged sedimentary basins which include the mined coal measures that unconformably overlie the Anakie metamorphic rocks of Middle Ordovician age and older (see Figures 4 and 5 in link below).The unconformity between the conglomerates and underlying schist is present at surface over about 1,500 metres of trend at Blackridge. Much of the lease is covered by loose gravel with only a few outcrops of conglomerate and schist in places. This cover, within which small gold nuggets have been found by prospectors over many years, has hindered previous exploration and there has been no recent systematic exploration in the area.Progress has also been made on the grant of the four MLA's under option from Rock Solid Holdings Pty Ltd as well as the Compensation Agreement with the landowner. Native Title negotiations are also underway. Work will commence on these Leases and the Exploration Licences as soon as these arrangements are completed.To view figures, please visit:About Impact Minerals Limited Impact Minerals Limited (ASX:IPT) is an exploration company listed on the ASX in November 2006. The Company manages extensive tenement holdings (>2,000 km2) within Australia featuring significant potential for high-grade mineral deposits of gold, silver, lead, zinc, copper, nickel and PGM's. The Directors of the Company have extensive experience in mineral exploration and a strong history of exploration success, business development and corporate management. Impact Minerals intends to build wealth for its shareholders through a vigorous campaign of project generation and evaluation with a view towards profitable mining operations. The American Bar Association evaluates Supreme Court nominations through its Standing Committee on the Federal Judiciary. Earlier this year that committee returned a finding that Brett Kavanaugh was well qualified by unanimous vote, the same finding it made in 2016 for then-nominee Merrick Garland, President Barack Obamas nominee for the Supreme Court. In its description of how the committee decides, the ABA mentions judicial temperament at least 16 times. It never, however, defines the term. I recall, when appointed to a trial court, then-Texas Supreme Court justice, Franklin Spears spoke at my swearing-in ceremony. He spoke of judicial temperament and how it is crucial to being a good judge but difficult to define. Back in 1998, Sen. Joe Biden remarked that in evaluating federal court nominees, he worries about temperament most of all. It boils down to the question we should ask: Is a nominee fit for the job? Will the nominee be a good judge? I suggest we ask ourselves, what will the nominee be like? Ask ourselves, what about a particular nominee makes him/her particularly suited for the job? Legal commentator Jeffrey Rosen wrote that temperament embraces personality, character, upbringing and education, formative career experiences, work habits, and behavior when interacting with others. This is certainly not an exhaustive analysis of judicial temperament, but I hope that citizens of our shared nation will ask these basic questions and imagine what kind of judge you would want to listen to cases that will impact your life, your familys life and the lives of millions of fellow Americans. What do we find if we look at the so-called hearings of Brett Kavanaugh and, particularly, analyze his responses to allegations of sexual misconduct? Do we think that examples of judicial temperament were exhibited by his replies, statements and finger-pointing? Do we believe how he interacted with Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee show a personality and character that will be impartial, open-minded, careful, thoughtful and dispassionate when on the Supreme Court? Of course, Judge Kavanaughs display of emotion was in response to very emotional and personal references. But I think such a showing of open wounds shines a bright light on the character, disposition and mindset of this nominee. I, for one, do not believe he will serve us well. He does not strike me as having the temperament of someone I want ruling on emotional, passionate and significant cases affecting our nation. If you agree with my brief analysis, I urge you to contact your two senators and ask that they not vote for Judge Kavanaughs confirmation. Jay Miller is a former judge in Bexar County. Almost 75% of county Longford's total population, or approximately 29,400 people, are being served by an 'at risk' water supply. Irish Water says it is taking measures to mitigate the risk, stressing that the water is still safe to drink on the four affected schemes. Also read: Center Parcs Longford Forest set for jobs info days Ballymahon, Gowna, Granard and Longford Central Water Supply Schemes are affected by elevated levels of THMs (trihalomethanes) and these supplies are on the Environmental Protection Agencys Remedial Action List (RAL). The first improvement works are expected to be complete on the Ballymahon scheme by early 2019, with work on the Gowna, Granard and Longford Central supplies not expected to be completed until 2020. The RAL is the list of at risk water supplies, and Irish Water is writing to homes and businesses in Co Longford to outline why the supply in question is at risk and what it is doing to mitigate the risk. Also read: Former Longford school principal escapes prison sentence after pleading guilty to defrauding the State In the past, Irish Water only contacted homes and businesses if there was a problem with their drinking water supply that was likely to cause an immediate risk to health. Irish Water will continue to do that. However, the recent Water Services Policy Statement 2018 -2025, called for better engagement with, and greater transparency for people using public water supplies. Irish Water says that this direct communication with their 29,400 'at risk' customers in Longford is an important part of helping the public to understand what they do. Irish Water outlined the work it is undertaking to improve the four drinking water supplies in County Longford on the EPAs Remedial Action List; * The Ballymahon Water Supply Scheme is affected by elevated levels of THMs (trihalomethanes). THMs are chemical compounds which can form over time when natural organic matter such as the tiny remaining particles of twigs and leaves, react with chlorine. The addition of chlorine to the treated water is an essential part of the treatment process and is necessary to kill harmful bacteria and make the water safe to drink. Irish Water is making operational improvements to the Abbeyshrule water treatment plant which will mitigate this risk, and these improvements are expected to be complete by early 2019. * The Gowna Water Supply Scheme is affected by elevated levels of THMs. Irish Water is making operational improvements to the Smear water treatment plant which will mitigate this risk, and these improvements are expected to be complete by early 2020. * The Granard Water Supply Scheme is affected by elevated levels of THMs. Irish Water is making operational improvements to the Lough Kinale water treatment plant which will mitigate this risk, and these improvements are expected to be complete by early 2020. * The Longford Central Water Supply Scheme is affected by elevated levels of THMs and pesticides. Irish Water plans to carry out upgrade works at the Lough Forbes Water Treatment Plant to mitigate the risk of THMs. These works are due for completion by early 2020. Irish Water is also actively engaging with the relevant stakeholders to help prevent pesticides from entering the source waters for our supplies. Irish Water correspondence to customers Homes and businesses in 16 counties across the country on 55 different water supply schemes will receive a detailed booklet outlining the issues with their water supply which might vary from elevated THMs; inadequate barriers for cryptosporidium; poor turbidity removal; presence of low levels of pesticides; or details of an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) audit of a plant. The individual booklet will explain in detail to householders where their drinking water comes from; why Irish Water is writing to them; how Irish Water knows that their water is safe to drink; information about regulation and testing; what Irish Water is doing to fix their specific water supply; and where they can get more information. Any drinking water sample showing a result above a specified water quality standard is notified immediately to our environmental regulator, the EPA, in line with statutory requirements. The EPA is the supervisory authority for public supplies and regulates Irish Water in terms of our ability to produce and supply compliant water to our customers. If there is any concern about a possible health risk from the drinking water we produce, the HSE is also consulted. Longford drinking water is safe Speaking about the public information campaign, Mark Macaulay, Asset Planning Manager at Irish Water said, Irish Water has worked closely with the EPA to identify the public water schemes that need a plan or action to improve their water treatment. We are prioritising our investment in these treatment plants. Providing safe, clean drinking water for all in Co Longford is our first goal." Mr Macaulay added, We wish to assure everyone we are writing to in Longford that their drinking water is safe to drink. We monitor and test our supplies on a continuous basis and if this monitoring indicates a potential water quality issue we consult with the HSE. If the results from our monitoring programmes indicate any potential risk to public health from the drinking water supply we inform the public immediately. If anyone has any questions or concerns they should contact Irish Water. If members of the public have any questions that are not covered in the Irish Water booklet, they can phone Irish Water on Callsave 1850 278 278 or +353 1 707 2828 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). Also read: Uproar in north Longford amid claims waste facility plans will "kill" Granard tourism centre development "before it has even started" Sinn Fein presidential candidate Liadh Ni Riada believes she has a real and credible opportunity to become Ireland's next head of State. The Sinn Fein MEP was in Longford on Saturday evening where she met local organisers and members of the public as the first week of official campaigning for the Irish presidency got off the ground. ALSO READ: Longford councillors to hear from presidential candidates In every single county there are people like yourselves that are completely and absolutely know in their hearts and souls that we can win this campaign and its time we bring those Republican values to every single door, she told an assembled crowd of onlookers at the Cathedral Car Park. Ms Ni Riada hit out at the growing crises that still dog Ireland's homelessness figures, hospital waiting times and the increasing costs linked to education provision. In hailing the virtues of social justice and equality, Ms Ni Riada said there was equal need to discuss the merits of a united Ireland. This is a great opportunity to talk about a united Ireland, to talk about the kind of Ireland we want for the next seven years, she added. Company Update on Gas Acceleration Programme Brisbane, Oct 3, 2018 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Central Petroleum Limited ( ASX:CTP ) ("Company" or "Central") today announces an update on the Gas Acceleration Programme ("GAP"). The GAP has an objective of maximising gas sales into the east coast market following connection via the Northern Gas Pipeline ("NGP") scheduled for commencement in December 2018. This is step change in the Company's financial position as gas sales under contract will nearly triple from current levels in just a few months. Not only does this create value from producing assets that were purchased only a few years ago, but it also provides the Company with significant financial flexibility as we seek to create new value through our exploration and business development activity.The Company has completed a comprehensive review of the GAP driven by:- Recent management changes (new Acting CEO, new COO, new CCO).- Completion of front-end engineering and design (FEED) for the Palm Valley facility restart project.- Independent reviews in several areas of the business, including Palm Valley sub-surface modelling and field deliverability forecasts and funding alternatives.- Enhanced project planning processes, including additional contingency provisions and risk mitigation strategies.As a result of this review the estimated total cost of the GAP is forecast to increase by $11.5 million (inclusive of additional contingency available for Palm Valley field performance). These cost increases relate to both facility projects at Mereenie and Palm Valley and the Palm Valley 13 appraisal well. Importantly, this review provides for a heightened level of planning confidence and risk mitigation going forward.The Company has also decided to defer the planned drilling of the Ooraminna 3 appraisal well to 2019. This timing provides an opportunity to optimise the Ooraminna appraisal well following West Mereenie 26 results (mineralisation) and pending the Palm Valley 13 results. In addition, it prioritises currently available capital toward those GAP projects that will maximise gas sales immediately on commencement of the NGP. We anticipate that increased operational free cash flow is expected to be available for a deferred Ooraminna appraisal well from 2019.The GAP cost increases identified above, net of savings associated with a deferral of the Ooraminna appraisal well, can be funded through a $7.5 million increased debt facility with Macquarie Bank (subject to satisfaction of usual conditions precedent).Whilst the GAP costs have increased from the original scope and estimate last year, we are achieving the objective of maximising gas sales into the east coast market on commencement of the NGP in December. As a brownfield project, the economics of the GAP remain robust and highly value accretive for the Company.The attached Company Update (see link below) provides additional detail on the above, including a summary overview of the 2018 annual results.To view the Company Update, please visit:About Central Petroleum Limited Central Petroleum Limited ( ASX:CTP) is a well-established, and emerging ASX-listed Australian oil and gas producer. In our short history, Central has grown to become the largest onshore gas producer in the Northern Territory (NT), supplying industrial customers and senior gas distributors in NT and the wider Australian east coast market. Central is positioned to become a significant domestic energy supplier, with exploration and development plans across 180,000 km2 of tenements in Queensland and the Northern Territory, including some of Australia's largest known onshore conventional gas prospects. Central has also completed an MoU with Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG) to progress the proposed Amadeus to Moomba Gas Pipeline to a Final Investment Decision. We are also seeking to develop the Range gas project, a new gas field located among proven CSG fields in the Surat Basin, Queensland with 135 PJ (net to Central) of development-pending 2C contingent resource. Lakeland Dairies and LacPatrick Dairies have reached agreement to merge following the unanimous approval of the Boards of both co-operative societies who are recommending the proposed merger to their respective shareholders. Exclusive discussions about a possible merger started last June and have reached a positive outcome where the Boards of both societies are unanimously recommending shareholders to vote in favour of the merger at Special General Meetings which will be held on Tuesday 23rd October next. Regulatory approval will also be required. Lakeland Dairies and LacPatrick Dairies are neighbouring societies and both operate on a cross border basis exporting the vast majority of their output to global markets. Each has a heritage of excellence in co-operative dairy farming spanning well over a century and share common business development aims in the interests of their shareholders, milk producers and rural communities. The amalgamation of Lakeland and LacPatrick is a coming together of two dairy co-operatives on the island of Ireland to form a strong force in the global dairy industry. Both co-operatives are highly successful agrifood industry players with excellent manufacturing facilities and complementary strengths and advantages in their various worldwide markets. As an absolute priority, the combined new co-operative will work to support dairy farming families on a long term basis into the future by maximising market returns and paying a sustainable and competitive milk price in line with market conditions. Owned and controlled by farmers, with over 3,200 milk suppliers and a collective milk pool of some 1.8bn litres, the new co-op will be the second largest dairy processor on the island of Ireland. It will have a combined annual turnover in excess of 1bn, creating internationally competitive scale while ensuring efficient costs of operation. The announcement was made jointly by the Chairman of LacPatrick Dairies, Andrew McConkey and the Chairman of Lakeland Dairies, Alo Duffy, together with Michael Hanley, CEO of Lakeland Dairies who will be appointed Group CEO of the new merged co-operative society which will adopt the name of Lakeland Dairies. Andrew McConkey, Chairman of LacPatrick Dairies said, The Board of LacPatrick firmly believes that an amalgamation with our neighbours in Lakeland Dairies is the best thing for our milk suppliers, shareholders and customers. It gives our farmers the necessary security to make long term business decisions and provides stability for continuing progress in dairy farming for the next generation. "The Board of LacPatrick is unanimously recommending our shareholders to approve this merger at our forthcoming SGM. With an enlarged milk pool and well invested dairy processing sites on both sides of the border, the new co-operative will be a co-op of scale working in the long term best interests of dairy farmers, ensuring global market access and serving our valued customers with an even greater capability and an expanded range of high quality, value-added dairy products. Alo Duffy, Chairman of Lakeland Dairies said, This merger proposal is a once in a lifetime opportunity for both co-operatives to continue their strong progress in a very meaningful way. Both societies are committed to the long term wellbeing and economic success of dairy farming, milk producers and rural communities. "The proposed merger will uphold these values and will lead to further scale, strength and sustainability for milk producers. It will enable us to process all of the milk sent to us, including the expanding output of our dairy farming members. It will create economies of scale and will secure our channels to global markets on a stronger, substantial and even more sustainable basis for the future. The Board of Lakeland Dairies is unanimously recommending the merger to our shareholders. Michael Hanley, CEO of Lakeland Dairies said, I am confident that the best interests of the shareholders and milk producers of both societies will be best served through this merger. The economies of scale achievable by combining both societies will create a larger, more efficient, diversified, farmer controlled, global dairy food group with a broad portfolio of value-added products and brands. Both co-operatives have excellent facilities, technologies and resources with strong synergies across our milk processing footprint and in the markets we serve at home and abroad. "We will be able to expand the potential of our overall portfolio of products, covering Food Ingredients, Foodservice and Consumer Foods. The business will have considerable potential to increase revenues and generate the cost savings necessary to ensure competitive milk prices for our dairy farmers in the future. "It will continue to ensure market access to the United Kingdom, Europe and the world. The combined organisation will have substantial cashflow to underpin the development of the business. All of these factors will enhance the value of the merged societies for the benefit of all shareholders and milk producers. Lakeland Dairies will hold its SGM in Cavan and LacPatrick Dairies will hold its SGM in Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, at 1.00 pm on Tuesday 23rd October, 2018. Both co-operatives have written to their respective shareholders with details of the merger and will also hold a series of information meetings in advance of the SGMs across several counties, north and south. The Boards of both co-operative societies are unanimously recommending shareholders to vote in favour of the merger. Longford Circuit Court determined this afternoon that it would continue to monitor the situation at a south Longford pig farm as Longford Co Council endeavours to raise 1m to clean up the derelict piggery in Newtowncashel amid fears that effluent from it will contaminate the local water supply. Donal Connaughton, Elfeet, Newtowncashel, Co Longford appeared before Judge Keenan Johnson charged with permitting the discharge of agricultural effluent to a tributary of Lough Slawn; causing agricultural effluent to fall into a tributary of Lough Slawn, and permitting agricultural effluent to enter into a tributary of Lough Slawn in Newtowncashel in 2015. During todays proceedings Michael Fitzsimons from Inland Fisheries Ireland confirmed to the court that while the money required to clean up the site was still unavailable, Longford Co Council in conjunction with the Fisheries board had been endeavouring to ensure that effluent did not leak from the piggery into the local water system. Mr Fitzsimons also pointed out that he had visited the site prior to the court sitting and was happy with the work that had been carried out to date. Longford Co Council has been working hard to get the work done there, but we still have a situation where we have a derelict piggery, the environmental expert told Judge Johnson. The site is in a precarious situation; there are large tanks onsite that have been badly built and they are leaking to a degree. Adverse weather conditions will make the situation worse but Longford Co Council has managed to create some freeboard there. Meanwhile, Mark Connellan on behalf of the Newtowncashel pig farmer said his client had cooperated fully with all agencies involved and did everything that he had been asked to do. Frank Gearty, Counsel for Longford Co Council then pointed out to the court that there were ongoing and tense discussions between the local authority and the Department in relation to securing funding for further works to be carried out at the Newtowncashel piggery. Delivering his ruling in the matter Judge Johnson said he was still very concerned over the potential for an environmental disaster as a direct result of the piggery. I think I need to keep this before the courts, the Judge added. My concern all along has been about an environmental catastrophe as a result of the tanks on that site breaking. The matter was subsequently adjourned so that Judge Johnson can monitor the situation in the interim. Read Also: Longford pig farmer Donal Connaughton jailed for twelve months after losing appeal REVEALED: Cost of pursuing Longford pig farmer through courts system to cost taxpayers 500k A midlands vehicle testing firm found guilty of breaching health and safety laws in the testing of a school bus subsequently involved in a fatal crash in Offaly has lost an appeal against its conviction. The bus went out of control near Clara, Co Offaly, on April 4, 2006 in a single vehicle incident which tragically took the life of schoolboy Michael White (15) who died as a result of serious injuries he sustained. The accident was directly linked to a failure of the vehicles rear suspension, which caused the back axle to detach while it was being driven with catastrophic consequences. The Court of Appeal heard that the Mercedes vehicle, which was originally registered in the UK, was carrying more than 30 students on a school run. It had what was called leaf spring suspension on the rear axel but, in or around 1991, this was modified or converted in the UK in the knowledge of British regulatory authorities. Thereafter, the bus was registered in Ireland in 2001 and had a Certificate of Roadworthiness, issued by a city or county council, at the relevant time. Also read: Former Longford school principal escapes prison sentence after pleading guilty to defrauding the State OReilly Commercials Limited, of Ballinalack, Mullingar, Co Westmeath, had pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to four charges of breaching health and safety laws when carrying out an official test on the bus between August 5 and 6, 2005. The charges, brought under the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989, had alleged the firm failed to ensure persons were not exposed to risks to their safety or health as a result of the way the test was carried out. A jury found the firm guilty of failing to note the modified rear suspension system in the course of a test carried out by it, OReilly Commercials, between August 5 and 6, 2005. Verdicts of not guilty were returned on the remaining three counts and the company was fined 25,000 by Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan on July 29, 2013. The Court of Appeal upheld the firms conviction on Wednesday, October 3 holding that the trial was satisfactory and the verdict safe. Mr Justice John Edwards, who sat with President of the Court of Appeal Mr Justice George Birmingham and Mr Justice John Hedigan, said the three-judge court had rejected all seven of the firms complaints and the appeal was therefore dismissed. Also read: Jury into Abbeyshrule plane crash tragedy recommends greater pilot training The prosecutions case was that the vehicle was tested by OReilly Commercials on August 6, 2005 and failed in certain respects (not related to modified rear suspension). It was then re-presented for re-test on September 1 and passed. The prosecution relied primarily on a statement by the Managing Director in the firm, Mr David OReilly, to an HSA Inspector in October 2008 in that respect. The defence maintained that all that had occurred in August 2005 was an informal pre-test inspection to identify issues that required to be addressed. Central to the defence's case was that the test was carried out on September 1, not in August, and as a consequence, the 1989 Act did not apply because by the time the test had been carried out, as contended by the defence, that Act had been repealed. Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions, Caroline Biggs SC, said the test took place on August 6 and the retest was on September 1. Ms Biggs said that statement came from the horse's mouth and was evidence on the face of it that the first stage of the test was carried out in August. Also read: Uproar in north Longford amid claims waste facility plans will "kill" Granard tourism centre development "before it has even started" She said the date on which the test was carried out was a question of fact for resolution by the jury. The jury knew the significance of the date, Ms Biggs said, and it had been explained to the jury throughout. In opening its appeal, counsel for O'Reilly Commercials, Sean Gillane SC, said the background to the case involved a tragic accident and the death of a young schoolboy. That fact was not lost on the company, who was the authorised tester and had a very good reputation in the testing business, Mr Gillane said. Also read: Longford Gardai launch manhunt following daring Lidl raid Nature & Weather, Local News, Health & Wellness, Press Releases, Politics By Long Island News & PR Published: October 03 2018 $185 Million Available for Water Treatment System Upgrades to Combat Emerging Contaminants PFOA, PFOS, and 1,4-dioxane. Albany, NY - October 3, 2018 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced $200 million in grant funding to help communities address federally unregulated contaminants in their drinking water supplies, a national issue that is still lacking federal guidance. The funding will provide advanced support and assistance for communities to combat emerging contaminants, as the State prepares to take the important step of setting enforceable drinking water standards for the emerging contaminants PFOA, PFOS, and 1,4-dioxane. Of the grant funding, $185 million will be available to communities across the state to upgrade drinking water treatment systems to combat emerging contaminants, prioritizing PFOA, PFOS, and 1,4-dioxane. The remaining $15 million has been awarded to communities already pursuing system upgrades and innovative pilot technologies to treat emerging contaminants. Additionally, the Governor directed the Department of Health, Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Environmental Facilities Corporation to provide technical assistance to communities to help assess system needs and apply for grant funding. "Safe drinking water is critical for public health and economic prosperity and communities should not be left to fend for themselves when it comes to removing dangerous contaminants," Governor Cuomo said. "While the federal government fails to set national standards and guidelines for safe drinking water, New York is prepared to take action in the absence of federal leadership. This funding will ensure communities have the technology and support they need to provide their residents with quality drinking water, creating a safer, healthier New York for all." "It's critical that we ensure our drinking water is free of contaminants and safe for all New Yorkers," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "This investment to tackle the serious issue of contaminants will address immediate needs to enhance and protect water quality. We want to make sure that communities have the resources they need to make upgrades to their water treatment systems and ensure the health and safety of residents." $185 Million Available With today's announcement, $185 million in grant funding will be available to communities across the state seeking to upgrade their drinking water treatment systems to address the emerging contaminants PFOA, PFOS, and 1,4-dioxane. Municipalities will have access to grants to fund up to 60 percent of a project's costs up to $3 million, or 40 percent of a project's costs up to $10 million. Eligible projects may include carbon systems to remove PFOA/PFOS from drinking water and Advanced Oxidative Process technologies to remove 1,4-dioxane. Additionally, for the first time, eligible public water systems may apply for grants to help fund the planning and development of an engineering report for an infrastructure project that will combat emerging contaminants. Grants may be up to $50,000 depending upon system size and population served. This funding is made possible by Governor Cuomo's historic $2.5 billion Clean Water Infrastructure Act. In addition to grant programs, the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation administers the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, which offers zero or low-interest financing to communities to further reduce the cost of water infrastructure projects. For more information, please visit the DWSRF page on the EFC website. Grant applications and additional information are now available here. Completed applications and supporting documentation must be submitted to: NYSWaterGrants@efc.ny.gv by Friday, January 11, 2019. $15 Million Awarded Governor Cuomo has awarded $15 million to communities already pursuing system upgrades and innovative pilot technologies to treat certain emerging contaminants. Projects receiving grant funding include: Bethpage Water District (Nassau County): $1.65 million to upgrade water treatment facility, including an AOP system to treat 1,4-dioxane South Huntington Water District (Suffolk County): $3 million to upgrade water treatment facility, including an AOP system to treat 1,4-dioxane Suffolk County Water Authority (Suffolk County): $9.7 million to advance the Wainscott water main project and address PFOS Town of Petersburgh (Rensselaer County): $750,000 to upgrade groundwater source, storage, and distribution systems and address PFAS Overall, the $15 million in grant funding will support more than $34 million in project costs and represents almost $25 million in taxpayer savings for these communities. Further, this funding will support the creation of approximately 550 jobs. These grants are made possible by Governor Cuomo's $2.5 billion Clean Water Infrastructure Act's WIIA and Intermunicipal Water Infrastructure Grant programs. To date, more than $1 billion has been allocated through the Clean Water Infrastructure Act to address clean water and drinking water challenges in New York communities. In addition, $750,000 has been awarded in coordination with the Stony Brook Center for Clean Water Technology to Long Island municipalities piloting a new water treatment technology known as Advanced Oxidative Process, which has proven to be effective at removing 1,4-dioxane from drinking water. The Suffolk County Water Authority recently activated New York State's first successful use of this new AOP technology to reduce levels of 1,4-dioxane. The grant awards are as follows: Plainview and Greenlawn Water Districts: $369,000 in grant funding Suffolk County Water Authority: $222,205 in grant funding Hicksville Water District: $162,330 in grant funding Technical Assistance Governor Cuomo has directed the New York State Water Quality Rapid Response Team to provide immediate technical assistance to communities interested in assessing system needs and applying for grant funding. The Department of Health and the Environmental Facilities Corporation will be holding webinars in the coming weeks to help public water systems navigate the grant funding application process. Additionally, DOH will offer technical assistance based upon its successful oversight of carbon filtration and AOP treatment systems in other parts of the state. This will include engineering consultation, establishing monitoring and operational protocols, and guidance for potential grant and loan financing options. Established by Governor Cuomo in 2016, the New York State Water Quality Rapid Response Team continues to implement an aggressive protocol to reduce exposure to emerging contaminants in drinking water. Drinking Water Quality Council The New York State Drinking Water Quality Council will meet on Wednesday, October 17 at 10:00 AM to address the recent federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry report recommending new minimum risk levels for emerging contaminants like PFOA and PFOS, as well as discuss ways to address a broader group of related per and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals. The Council is tasked with making recommendations for Maximum Contaminant Levels for PFOA, PFOS, and 1,4-dioxane. Council recommendations will be considered by the Commissioner of Health, who will accept the recommended Maximum Contaminant Levels or propose alternate levels, ultimately issuing a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to be published in the New York State Register. Following a public comment period, the proposed regulation will be either revised or submitted for adoption by the Public Health and Health Planning Council, subject to the approval of the Commissioner of Health. The Drinking Water Quality Council was enacted as part of the FY2018 Budget to identify strategies to protect the quality of New York's drinking water. The 12-member Council is chaired by New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker and includes State Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos and 10 other individuals appointed for their expertise in water operations, risk assessment, toxicology, microbiology, and environmental engineering. Despite New York State's repeated calls on the Environmental Protection Agency to establish an official drinking water standard, the federal government has not regulated emerging contaminants PFOA, PFOS and 1,4-dioxane, which are present in drinking water sources all over the country. The federal EPA has repeatedly shifted guidance, establishing lifetime health advisory levels for PFOA/PFOS and 1,4-dioxane, but failing to set legally enforceable standards, called Maximum Contaminant Levels, which require systems to monitor, report findings, and to keep the contaminant below the level. Moreover, the recent release of a federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry report recommending new minimum risk levels for PFOA and PFOS compounds the lack of consistent guidance and oversight. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are fluorinated organic chemicals that are part of a larger group of chemicals referred to as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). They have been used to make carpets, clothing, fabrics for furniture, paper packaging for food and other materials that are resistant to water, grease or stains. They are also used for firefighting at airfields and in a number of industrial processes. The solvent 1,4-dioxane is used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications, such as in the manufacture of other chemicals, as a processing aid, a laboratory chemical, and in adhesives and sealants. Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Howard A. Zucker said, "Here in New York, we're staying one step ahead of addressing federally unregulated chemicals in drinking water by allocating necessary resources to explore and tailor proven treatment options. We are pleased to be able to support these water systems as they determine the best treatment technology to ensure that exposure is minimized and public health is protected." Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "While the Federal Government is not acting, Governor Cuomo is once again taking bold actions to protect clean water. These new investments will ensure communities have the resources they need to provide clean water and will bolster our ongoing efforts to hold polluters accountable for cleaning up sources of contamination. DEC stands ready to assist any community impacted by contamination as we continue our efforts to protect and restore water quality throughout the state." Environmental Facilities Corporation President and CEO Sabrina M. Ty said, "Governor Cuomo's record of environmental leadership is beyond reproach and I applaud his announcements today. Clean drinking water is central to the prosperity of our communities and EFC stands ready to do its part as we seek to create a healthier New York for everyone." Director of the New York State Center for Clean Water Technology at SUNY Stony Brook Christopher J. Gobler, Ph.D. said, "Emerging contaminants like 1,4 dioxane, PFOA, and PFOS are serious threats to NY's water supplies. These are critical, forward-looking steps that will help ensure citizens of New York are receiving the cleanest drinking water treatment technologies can provide." Music, Movies & Entertainment, School & Education, Local News, Arts & Culture, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: October 03 2018 Seven Participants And Twelve Alternates Selected. Dix Hills, NY - October 3, 2018 - The New York State Music Association has made its selection of students who will participate in the 2018 NYSSMA Conference All-State music groups, and the Half Hollow Hills Central School District is very proud to have seven All-State musicians chosen to take part in this years Winter Conference. An additional 12 student musicians from the district were selected as alternates, and may be chosen to fill any openings in the performances. Students chosen from Half Hollow Hills are: John DiGiorgio, Bass II, Mixed Chorus, High School West Francis Altamirano, Tenor II, Mixed Chorus, High School East Rinni Bhansali, Oboe, Symphony Orchestra, High School East Hannah Gerber, Soprano II, Treble Chorus, High School East Aaron Ichel, Violin, Symphony Orchestra, High School East Matthew Park, Double Bass, Symphony Orchestra, High School East Marco Tomassi, Contrabass in Wind Ensemble and Bass Clarinet in Symphonic Band, High School East These students were chosen out of the thousands of students who auditioned for this honor at solo and ensemble festivals throughout New York State last spring. Over 2,400 students received scores of 98 or higher and were recommended for All-State consideration. The almost 900 musicians selected as All-State will be performing at the NYSSMA Winter Conference which takes place November 29 through December 2, 2018, in Rochester, New York. The alternates from Half Hollow Hills are High School Wests Jessica Felber, Sara Ju, Anthony Smith and Sophia Vespolli, and from High School East are Allyson Adam, Daniel Connell, Johnathan Goldblatt, Dylan Landman, Rachel Sacher, Kathleen Tan and Donna Zarrabi. We are very proud of these students and their accomplishments, said Dr. Darlene Lilla, the director of fine arts in Half Hollow Hills. The hard work and dedication demanded by their craft is evident. They will be excellent representatives of our music department. ABOUT HALF HOLLOW HILLS OROVILLE, Calif. - Butte College has saved its students more than $1 million in textbook costs in the past three years. The school helped students save almost $450,000 this semester with its Zero Textbook Cost Program. "As usual California is ahead of the curve to doing great things for our students," said Suzanne Wakim, the open educational resource coordinator for the college. Zero Textbook Cost Program helps faculty find textbooks for students to use for free online. The program began in 2015 with a grant from the state and Wakim brought this program to their campus. "The cost of textbooks is a real barrier and I really want to find some ways to help students overcome that barrier," Wakim said. College officials conducted surveys on how the costs of textbooks affect students. "About a third of students won't take as many classes 'cause they can't afford textbooks and so that really limits their choices," Wakim said. "About 40 percent say they've tried a class without buying the textbook because they can't afford it and about half of those students fail." The textbooks are free online, but if students prefer printed versions they can print them at the bookstore for a reasonable price. "I'd say the electronic books are a little bit better because they highlight what is needed they have like special exams at the end where you can test what you've learned and they make you stop and actually review what you've learned," said Celeste Castillo, a student at Butte College. School officials are working towards ways that students with earlier registration times, aren't just the ones getting into the classes with the free textbooks because right now it's first come, first serve. "When you're signing up for classes it definitely has a symbol to say if it needs a textbook or if the textbook is free online, so I would advise students to pay more attention to that because that's how I found out that textbooks are free," Castillo said. The grant Butte College received from the state to help start its program will soon go away. So, it'll be up to the college to figure out how they want to sustain the program. CHICO, Calif. - Chico State has released its annual security report, which involves crime statistics from the years 2015 to 2017. One of the biggest statistics that the report shows is an increase in rape reports from 2015 to 2017, based on the calendar year, not the academic year. According to the statistics, reports of campus rape increased from three to nine from 2015 to 2017. Reports of non-campus rape increased from one to 3 from 2015 to 2017. "National data I think is clear at this point that sexual violence and sexual harassment on college and university campus is a significant activity that campuses have to respond to and support their students, faculty and their staff," said John Reid, police chief for Chico State University Police. Reid said that he has worked with Chico State since the '80s and he has only seen programs for sexual assault victims such as Title IX or Safe Place be developed in the past five years. Action News Now reporter Laura Eng asked administrators who work with sexual assault cases what they thought about the statistics and they said that the increase in numbers can be seen as a good thing because that means that Chico State is moving more toward a culture that's becoming comfortable talking about sexual assault. "It's not something we're ashamed of," said Dylan Saake, Title IX coordinator. "We think it's not a change in what's happening, we think we're finding out more about what's already going on." Saake said that it's important for students to know the resources that are available to them on campus. Another resource students can use is called Safe Space. "We see more than what that report says because we are a confidential resource," Alix Macdonald, Safe Place advocate administrator. "Often times these are people that they know and see on campus, so fear of retaliation or not being believed are probably the two biggest factors as well as just not knowing what their options are." Chico State students also weighed in on their thoughts on the newly released statistics. Ariana Reposa, a sophomore at Chico State, said that she always walks with friends and lets people know where she is at night. "I try to take care of myself and use proper precautions as best as you can," she said. To view the full report, CLICK HERE. Boston-based financial services company John Hancock has reportedly sold more than 14,000 acres of farmland in Washington state to Microsoft Corp. co-founder Bill Gates for $171 million. The Land Report, a trade publication, reported late last week that the deal was the priciest land sale in the U.S. so far in 2018. The transaction closed in late August but was not made public until last week, according to the report. Hancock and its Canadian parent company, Manulife Financial Corp., have significant real estate holdings in North America. As a life insurer, Hancock is interested in long-term investments because it may take decades before it pays out on the policies it issues today. Hancock appears to have turned a nice profit on the farmland it sold to Gates: It paid $75 million to acquire the property in 2010, according to The Land Report. Meanwhile, the company is currently weighing what to do with its property in the Seaport District, Boston's hottest market for commercial real estate. Hancock announced this spring that it was moving its headquarters from its current Congress Street office tower to space it already occupies in Back Bay. The move is expected to be completed by the end of this year. Hancock is considering either selling or leasing its soon-to-be-vacant Seaport tower. A company spokeswoman said last week that it had not yet made a decision. "Part of it is really looking at the marketplace and seeing what people are interested in," Hancock spokeswoman Marianne Harrison said in an interview this summer. "If there's more interest on the lease side, because of the fact... that we have these very long assets, that's not a bad thing for us to have the rental income over the long term, because that helps us in terms of our general account and funding our claims for the future." SPRINGFIELD -- A city church has purchased the two Boston Road properties -- including the former site of the Smokey Bones Red Lobster restaurants, and a commercial building currently occupied by Namco -- for $2.2 million. The purchase, by Restoration Worship Center / Centro De Restauracion Adoracion church, includes 6.6 acres next to the Lowe's Shopping Plaza, according to a news release from NAI Plotkin real estate, which represented the sellers. Staffers at the Namco store, which sells pool supplies and patio furniture, said Wednesday they don't know yet if they will move. The 20,585-square-foot commercial building is at 1492 Boston Road. Restoration Worship Center plans to build a new church building at the site, NAI Plotkin said. The church is currently located at 30 Bowdoin St. The sale closed Sept. 25, according to documents on file at the Hampden County Registry of Deeds. Stephen Picard, commercial sales associate with NAI Plotkin, said the church plans to reuse the existing restaurant building, but with substantial renovations and possibly an expansion. Namco has a lease that lasts for a few more months. Then, it will be up to the church and Namco to work out a new deal. This Namco location was one of the busiest in the chain, an indication of how busy Boston Road is. "It is interesting in that neighborhood right now because you have Eastfield Mall planning a redevelopment project," Picard said. "Boston Road still has great traffic. The state of retail is great on Boston Road." Eastfield Mall's owners have proposed redeveloping the site, demolishing all or parts of the existing structure and turning it into a mixed-use residential, office, retail complex. "Retail is changing," Picard said. "Where a store might have had 40,000 square feet, they might get away with 20,000 square feet." Bill Low, a partner at NAI Plotkin, said the company was excited to have sold the property within six months. "The Boston Road area is a prime retail location and has seen quite a lot of changes over the last decade," he said. "While the retail market in this area has changed with the closing of stores like Macy's and now Sears, we still have had a successful track record of sales and lease transaction in this area." Low said the opening of the MGM Springfield casino has brought a "spike of energy in commercial real estate," adding, "we are excited to be part of bringing new business and opportunities into the Western Massachusetts market." The previous owner was an LLC called 1492 Boston Road. According to documents on file with the state, 1492 Boston Road was controlled by the estates of Josephine and John S. Banas of Wilbraham, who once owned Banas Furniture and Realty. The restaurant closed in January 2006. With a total assessment for both buildings and the parking lot of $2.6 million, the previous owners paid $104,115 in real estate taxes and $1,502 in community preservation act, or CPA, charges in fiscal year 2018, said Richard J. Allen, chairman of the city's board of assessors. What happens with taxes now that a church owns the property depends on a number of factors, he said. The city determines ownership for the next fiscal year on July 1. The owner of record on July 1 was still 1492 Boston Road LLC. The earliest the tax status would change in city records would be on July 1, 2019, for fiscal 2020 - unless the church asks to have the status changed sooner. The city determines tax status by use, not by ownership. That means if the church is using the property as a place of worship, it has a better chance of coming off the tax rolls than if it is vacant or if space is rented to a commercial entity. Tax status is also determined piecemeal, so the Namco building could remain on the tax rolls while worship space at the former restaurant might come off. This article was updated Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018 at 4:37 p.m. to update the date Smokey Bones closed and to add information about the property's assessed value and real estate tax status. Toys R Us may not be dead yet. The children's superstore closed hundreds of locations earlier this year, but may be staging a comeback after canceling a bankruptcy auction, the Wall Street Journal reported. The auction would have sold off the company's intellectual properties including brand names and its Geoffrey the Giraffe mascot. But, the hedge fund group in charge of the auction believes it has a better chance of reviving the toy chain rather than selling it off for parts, the Associated Press reported. As consumers shifted to online retailers like Amazon and big-box department stores like Target and Walmart, the New Jersey-based chain struggled to manage its $5 billion in debt, stemming from a $7.5 billion buyout in 2005 by investment firms KKR, Bain Capital and Vornado Realty Trust. Toys R Us declared bankruptcy this spring. The group hopes to revive the company by investing in and creating new retail operations under the Toys R Us and Babies R Us names, according to the AP. SPRINGFIELD -- A representative from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops will talk with Springfield diocese clergy on the church's sexual abuse crisis in the wake of several high profile recent investigations. Francesco Cesareo, who chairs the National Review Board that advises the USCCB on preventing such abuse, will meet with clergy Tuesday, Oct. 9 at 6 p.m. at Pope Francis Preparatory School, 99 Wendover Road. A recently released Pennsylvania grand jury report found that more than 1,000 children were victimized by some 300 Catholic priests over seven decades and that their sexual abuse was covered up by church hierarchy. Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick, former archbishop of Washington, was suspended from ministry in June after the New York archdiocese deemed credible an accusation that he had molested a 16-year-old boy there 50 years ago. Subsequent reports revealed that the church had been aware for decades that the popular McCarrick had been accused of sexually harassing and inappropriately touching adults. Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, the Vatican's former ambassador to the United States who attended the installation of Bishop Mitchell Rozanski here in 2014, recently accused Pope Francis as being part of the cover-up. "In light of the events of this summer, the Archbishop McCarrick scandal and the Pennsylvania grand jury report, the clergy education committee felt that it would be good for the priests and deacons to come together with Caesareo to process the events of this summer and to speak frankly of where the Church is right now in our commitment to the Protection of Youth and Young People," said Rozanski, referencing a charter of procedures the USCCB has for addressing allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy. "The Dallas Charter is now 16 years old and has been implemented in every diocese and eparchy in the country and it is a good time to reflect on what has been and how we can continue to be ever vigilant as a Church in the area of sexual child abuse." He added, "As bishop, I welcome this opportunity to gather as priests and deacons so that we, as leaders of God's people, will set the tone and example in ridding the Church and society of this scourge." The National Review Board issued a statement in response to both the grand jury report and McCarrick investigation saying they "point to a systemic problem within the Church that can no longer be ignored or tolerated by the episcopacy in the United States." "The evil of the crimes that have been perpetrated reaching into the highest levels of the hierarchy will not be stemmed simply by the creation of new committees, policies, or procedures," the statement said. "What needs to happen is a genuine change in the Church's culture, specifically among the bishops themselves." It also called for further revisions to the Charter for the Protection of Youth and Young People. Revisions made this summer to the charter, require all those who come in contact with minors in the church to undergo background checks. The charter is also known as the Dallas Charter as it is where the bishops conference was held in 2002 to debate it in the wake of the Boston Globe investigation into the Boston's archdiocese's cover-up of priests accused of sexual abuse of minors. One of the key voices for reform at the time was McCarrick. Caesareo is president of Assumption College, and is also overseeing an investigation into allegations of misconduct made by seminarians at St. John's Seminary in Boston. The Springfield diocese held a similar day Sept. 25 for employees to discuss the clergy sexual abuse crisis. More than 1,500 hotel workers are on strike in Boston Wednesday to demand they receive better pay, marking the city's first hotel walkout. At 5 a.m. on Wednesday, hotel workers employed across seven Marriott hotels in downtown Boston went on strike. Union chapter Local 26 said in a statement that Marriott workers "want jobs that allow them to live in Boston." "They want to afford their rent, provide for their families, and retire with dignity. They want to work in safe conditions and have job security, including a say in how new technologies are introduced to the hospitality industry," UNITE HERE Local 26 said in a statement. BREAKING: Today Boston @Marriott hotel workers walked off the job at 7 hotels to demand that one job should be enough. Enough to live in Boston, raise our families, and retire. #SupportTheStrike #1job #MarriottStrike pic.twitter.com/GbDsjuOPOH UNITE HERE Local 26 (@UNITEHERE26) October 3, 2018 Impacted hotels operated by Marriott International include Aloft Boston Seaport District, the Element Boston Seaport District, the Ritz-Carlton Boston, the Sheraton Boston, the W Hotel Boston, the Westin Boston Waterfront and the Westin Copley Place. Hotel workers voted to authorize the Union bargaining committee to call for the strikes last month. Worker demands go beyond Massachusetts, echoed by Marriott workers in cities like San Francisco, Detroit, Seattle and more. Their joint motto is "One job should be enough!" Marriott International did not immediately respond to comment. SPRINGFIELD -- Adrian Hinds was sentenced Wednesday to 10 to 12 years in state prison for a hammer attack on two people in Westfield two years ago. Hampden Superior Court Judge David Ricciardone accepted the prosecution's sentence request, which also included five years probation after the state prison term. A jury last month founds Hinds guilty of two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury. Hinds was acquitted of four other counts: two counts of armed assault with intent to murder and a count each of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and animal cruelty. Hinds, 27, was convicted in connection with an incident March 23, 2016, at the Southwood Acres apartments in Westfield. Victims Miranda Arthur-Smith and Nathan Cherniak were roommates in one apartment there and Hinds and his mother lived in another. Assistant District Attorney Janine Simonian said, "Ms. Arthur-Smith and Mr. Cherniak are never going to be the same people they were on the morning of March 23, 2016." She said Hinds' actions were "horrific." "Each victim was treated with particular cruelty," she said. Simonian said Hinds' defense included smearing the victims and putting the victims on trial. Defense lawyer Dana Goldblatt asked for a sentence of two and one half years to the Hampden County Correctional Center. She said state prison would be "traumatic" for Hinds, and sending him there would not benefit society. Ricciardone said, "I find the concentration on the defendant's trauma misplaced." The judge said Hinds carried out "brutal attacks," targeting the victims' heads with a deadly weapon -- a hammer -- and striking repeatedly. Cherniak, in his victim impact statement, said, "I feel trapped. I am anxious and nervous about my surroundings. ... I also wound up dropping out of school because I didn't always feel secure with all the people around. "I think about the attack on a daily basis and it can make it really hard to function," he said. Arthur-Smith, in her victim impact statement, said, "The largest ways I have been impacted have to do with being diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. "I am literally a shattered, discombobulated, emotionally turbulent version of myself ever since the assault," she said. Hinds will get credit for the two and one half years he has spent in jail awaiting trial. Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni said, "I commend both victims of this attack for courageously facing their attacker in court and working with my office to bring the defendant to justice. I would like to thank Assistant District Attorney Janine Simonian for her diligence, resilience, and commitment to justice in seeing this case through to a hard-fought conviction and a just result." "New England's Great State Fair" gently pushed backed against a litany of traffic-related complaints voiced by members of the Agawam City Council -- while at the same time conceding that there's always room for improvement. The Eastern States Exposition, or The Big E, hosted 1.54 million people this year, and reportedly caused serious traffic jams across Agawam Sept. 29, when a popular concert lineup and perfect weather drew a record-breaking crowd to the West Springfield fairgrounds. Agawam councilors at their Monday meeting lashed out at The Big E, saying the fair organization isn't doing enough to minimize its effect on surrounding communities. In a phone conversation on Tuesday, Big E President Gene Cassidy said that the exposition is aware of its 17-day impact, and is committed to working with state and local partners -- including Agawam officials -- to mitigate any problems. "We are proactive, and start planning any fair two years in advance," said Cassidy. "We are always looking for ways to make things better." Agawam "has always had a seat at the table," and the fair pays for extra traffic details -- paying Agawam police $49,878.11 in 2017. The 2018 payment has not yet been calculated, said Cassidy. The Big E released a four-page statement outlining its economic contributions to Agawam, and detailing its ongoing efforts to mitigate motor vehicle traffic. "We have never shied away from our responsibilities in Agawam, and have always had open dialog with the mayor's office and law enforcement," wrote Catherine Pappas, the fair's public relations and communications manager. "We understand the challenges we create and accept responsibility," she added. "We are continually seeking ways to make improvements." Among the items listed by Pappas in The Big E's official response to Agawam councilors: The Big E in August met with the state Emergency Management Agency and Agawam police and fire chiefs were present and part of the planning effort. Senior management met with the state Department of Transportation to discuss signage and radio alerts for the duration of the fair "to alert motorists to alternate routes on a real-time basis." The exposition has paid for a unified dispatch center at The Big E to facilitate police and fire communication between Agawam and West Springfield. The dispatch infrastructure can be used year-round. The Big E met with Agawam police in September, and offered to pay for extra traffic details. West Springfield police were in radio contact with Agawam police, and used motorcycle patrols, traffic cones and signage "to help the flow of traffic from Agawam into West Springfield." Moving forward, The Big E will continue to offer shuttle service from Springfield's Union Station for those riding the new CTrail Hartford Line. The exposition "is constantly looking for ways to use mass transit" and working with the Connecticut Department of Transportation to craft new solutions. Cassidy and Pappas both addressed the imminent reconstruction of the Morgan-Sullivan bridge -- a busy span near The Big E that links West Springfield and Agawam. According to MassDOT, the four-lane bridge could be down to two lanes for 36-40 months, within a full 47-month construction timetable. Cassidy said he's not that impressed with the bridge design, not persuaded that a four-year timetable is warranted, and that he's deeply concerned about the economic impact of bridge construction on local businesses. "It's time for us to work together as one community to ensure that the DOT acts in the best interest of Agawam and West Springfield," Cassidy said. "We need to hold them accountable. They must do the right thing." Cassidy said The Big E contributed a permanent easement to MassDOT, at no cost, to facilitate a better bridge design. He said he wonders why other solutions -- including bringing in a pre-fabricated span to expedite construction -- were rejected by MassDOT design engineers. In her statement on behalf of The Big E, Pappas wrote that, in 2018, 46 Agawam and Feeding Hills contractors were paid $1.3 million by The Big E, that 188 fairgrounds employees in Agawam drew paychecks totaling $317,131 and that 4,100 vouchers were distributed for free after-school admission on Agawam Day. "The town and ESE share the same goal -- to safely and efficiently move traffic in and out of the area," Pappas wrote. "We look forward to continuing to adopt best practices on traffic flow with the local communities and MassDOT." The Eastern States Exposition is a nonprofit organization incorporated in 1923. A separate Eastern States Exposition Foundation was incorporated in 2002. The fair, which got its start in 1916, draws crowds from across New England. Big E responds to Agawam traffic complaints by Mary Serreze on Scribd SPRINGFIELD -- A city police officer told jurors Tuesday that he was afraid he'd be run over as a suspect struck him twice with a car on Aug. 10, 2017. But in opening statements, a defense attorney painted a starkly different portrait of the encounter, describing defendant Baron Coates as a city worker who panicked when he saw an officer in plainclothes brandishing a gun. Coates, of Springfield, is charged with four counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and other offenses. He is accused of driving his car at four police officers -- one who was on foot, and three who were in cruisers. The 28-year-old opted for a jury-waived trial, which started Tuesday before Hampden Superior Court Judge John S. Ferrara. In his opening statement to Ferrara, defense lawyer Daniel D. Kelly said Coates had worked a long day in his job as a truck driver for the city Water and Sewer Department. Kelly said Coates went to a parking lot near Allen and Cooley Streets for two purposes: to meet with a planner for a party for his fiancee, and to lend several hundred dollars to a friend. The friend got in Coates' car and was giving him a gun to keep as collateral on the loan, Kelly said, adding that Coates had a license to carry a firearm. Then, Kelly said, Coates, "immediately saw a man run towards him with a gun pointed at him." "He saw the gun, nothing else," Kelly said. Two of Coates' cousins were murdered -- so "he was immediately scared for his life" and panicked, Kelly said. Two different unmarked police cars hit Coates' car, he said. Assistant District Attorney Patrick Bennett, meanwhile, said in his opening statement that the encounter in the parking lot sparked a pursuit. During the chase someone threw a gun from the passenger-side window of Coates' car, where the friend was sitting, Bennett said. Police found the gun on the sidewalk outside of Kiley Middle School. Coates attempted to plead guilty last week, but Ferrara stopped the plea when Coates disputed Bennett's summary of the case. Taking the witness stand Tuesday, Detective Robert Carter testified that he and others were led to the parking lot while while they were doing surveillance on another person. Carter said although he arrived in unmarked vehicle and not in uniform, his badge was on his chest and he clearly said "Stop, police" several times as he approached Coates' car on foot with his gun holstered. Carter said Coates struck him and an unmarked police car carrying Daniel Moynihan. Bennett said Coates struck two other police vehicles as he drove from the scene. In one cruiser was Detective Daniel Santiago, who suffered a concussion when he hit his head on the side window and steering wheel. Police found Coates at his mother's Springfield home, Bennett said. Kelly said that detail -- Coates lived with his mother at the time -- showed he wasn't trying to avoid police. He said Coates realized when he got there, "Those were probably police officers." Coates was considering dialing 911 when police showed up at the house, Kelly said. In addition to assault and battery, Coates is charged with two counts of leaving the scene of a personal injury accident and one count each of reckless operation of a motor vehicle, storing a firearm improperly and possessing a class B drug (buprenorphine). The trial continues Wednesday. SPRINGFIELD -- The owners of a State Street apartment building discriminated against three tenants who were participating in a substance use recovery program, a federal judge ruled. But in his Sept. 30 ruling, U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni also said the owners "presented sufficient evidence in support of the contention that they were motivated by legitimate safety concerns and fundamental failings of the program, rather than discriminatory animus against disabled tenants." The three plaintiffs filed the suit in connection with their Dec. 13, 2013 eviction from 888 State St. According to a Mass Fair Housing Center press release, the 15-unit building operated as a residential recovery program for individuals in recovery from substance use from 2000-2013. Defendants Craig Spagnoli, Chris Spagnoli, Lorilee I LLC. and Lorilee Property purchased the building 10 months before the evictions, agreeing to continue to operate the building as a recovery program, as required by a deed restriction on the property, according to the release. The plaintiffs participated in a supportive care program for people in recovery from substance use known as the Shelter Plus Care program. The Holyoke-based Massachusetts Fair Housing Center filed a complaint in federal court on their claiming that the tenants were evicted because of their disability. "Plaintiffs were good tenants who were not violating their leases, but now felt panicked about their ability to find housing and continue to participate in their recovery program," the release said. Mastroianni cited a letter from Craig Spagnoli to city officials in which Spagnoli wrote, ""we need to get tenants out, secure the building, change the locks then get better tenants." Meanwhile, according to the ruling, Christopher Spagnoli said he wouldn't have evicted the tenants if they withdrew from the program. "Here, even crediting Defendants' legitimate, good-faith safety concerns, those considerations provide no defense; the fact remains that, under controlling precedent, Defendants unlawfully discriminated against Plaintiff based on her participation" in the program, Mastroianni ruled. No one from the Lorilee companies could be reached for comment. In a statement, Meris Bergquist, executive director of the Massachusetts Fair Housing Center, said the defendants "never treated plaintiffs as individuals with good tenant histories, but rather decided to evict them based on stereotypes about people with disabilities and their need for a housing assistance program." It is unclear what the consequences are, and no one from the housing center could be reached for comment. SPRINGFIELD - The Hampden District Attorney's office, working with state police, has created a video in an effort to generate leads from an unsolved homicide that occurred four years ago in the North End. The video details the death of 45-year-old Jose M. Gonzalez who was fatally shot on an on-ramp to Interstate 91 north, near the North End McDonald's restaurant, on Aug. 8, 2014 at about 3 a.m. The victim, known to friends and family as Tatu, had been driving a white Ford Explorer that was found crashed in West Springfield about 20 minutes after he was killed, according to the video. The video shows footage of a Nissan Pathfinder (model year 2001-2007) that was seen in the vicinity of the victim on the night that he was killed. The video, narrated by state police detective Mike McNally, urges those with information to step forward. "We have not forgotten Tatu," McNally says. "His family has not forgotten and we will continue to pursue leads in this case until we find the person or persons responsible for Tatu's murder. Those with information should be not be intimidated into remaining silent. Someone knows something. By coming forward and telling the truth you are assisting making the streets safer for everyone and most importantly our children." The victim, according to the video, was widely loved. "Through the course of this investigation many people that have been interviewed were brought to tears when recalling his love of life and his sense of humor," McNally said. Those with information are asked to call state police detectives at 413-505-5941. Information can be left anonymously. Information can also be sent anonymously via text-a-tip.To send a text, messages should be addressed to "Crimes" or 274637, and should begin with the word "Solve." James Leydon, spokesman for the Hampden District Attorney's office, said video is a first for the office and represents an evolution in its effort to reach out to the public and the media in an effort to solve crimes. It was made by McNally and Jason Bolanos, who works in the district attorney's IT department. Trooper Dustin Fitch, a spokesman for state police, said district attorneys in other parts of the state have made and released similar videos in an effort to resolve major cases. WILLOWS, Calif. (AP) - A contractor doing repair work at the scene of the largest wildfire in California's recorded history has died in a vehicle accident. The U.S. Forest Service said Monday that the accident was discovered on Saturday at the Ranch Fire in Mendocino National Forest, north of San Francisco. The driver who died was assigned to fire suppression repair work. Other details weren't immediately released. The cause of the accident is under investigation. The Ranch fire was one of two side-by-side blazes dubbed the Mendocino Complex. The fires erupted in July and burned more than 700 square miles (1,813 sq. km.) of grass, brush and timber before they were contained. The fires killed a Utah firefighter, destroyed 157 homes and forced thousands of people to evacuate. BRIMFIELD - After six years of planning and fundraising, the historic Brimfield windmill was brought back to life Wednesday morning when volunteers attached a restored 19th century windwheel and sails atop the nearly 40-foot structure. Resident Michael Wales, 62, owner of M.L. Wales Painting of Brimfield, donated his time and materials to paint the structure. He said all the paint was donated by Sherwin Williams of Sturbridge. "I am a big believer in every town's people should give back to their town. This is my service to the town," Wales said. He was previously the fire chief in Brimfield, and remains a volunteer on the squad as a call firefighter. Estimates of when the original windmill was built span from the 1840s to the 1870s, when the property, which includes a home, was owned by John Wyles. He was a 19th century state senator who helped rewrite the Massachusetts Constitution with Daniel Webster. The windmill was used to pump water drawn from a town brook through lead pipes up to a cistern in the home's third-floor attic, and from there, gravity-fed water flowed downstairs into sinks and wash basins. The Greek revival style wooden house -- now used as St. Christopher's Rectory -- built between 1810 and 1819, and the adjoining property is now owned by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield. That includes St. Christopher Parish, built in 1966 on Route 20 in Brimfield. Doug Boyce, owner of Doug Boyce Crane service of Southbridge, lent his 100-foot crane, which he operated to lift the 400-pound windwheel, allowing carpenters to reattach it. "It's a good cause," Boyce said. Jonah Faucher and David Santella, who own a local carpentry business, said it was hard work because there was a lot of angles to negotiate. A formal dedication will take place in the near future, although a date has not been determined, Suzanne Collins said. She is a member of the volunteer group Brimfield Windmill Restoration Project. "We're happy," Collins said. Resident Lee Santella, who is a member of the restoration group, said: "We are thrilled." "It is an historic monument to Brimfield's beginnings," said Anna Ozolins. "It was a journey of labor and more than a handful of people donating." Karen and Richard Denniston watched the large crane lift the windwheel. "It's wonderful. There is a lot of people that worked very hard to accomplish this restoration," she said. Her husband said that he is "just so appreciative" of all the volunteers and donors that helped. CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated that homes in Longmeadow were evacuated in January due to gas leaks. According to Town Manager Stephen Crane, there was a problem with gas pressure and Columbia Gas was required by the state Department of Public Utilities to inspect gas meters and appliances at a number of homes over the course of a few months. LONGMEADOW -- The Select Board is considering a moratorium on new construction planned by Columbia Gas, including a proposed natural gas pipeline and metering station on Longmeadow Country Club property, until the cause of last month's Merrimack Valley gas explosions is determined. Board members also cited the 2012 gas explosion in downtown Springfield, in which Columbia Gas was at fault, along with a January incident that prompted the state Department of Public Utilities to order gas equipment inspections at nearly 600 homes in southern Longmeadow. Representatives from Columbia Gas said they were unaware of that problem and would look into the cause. Town Manager Stephen Crane said each of those homes and their gas appliances had to be inspected before residents were allowed back in. In the Merrimack Valley incident Sept. 13, a preliminary investigation found that gas lines in Lawrence, Andover and North Andover were overpressurized before the explosions, officials said. Columbia Gas said Tuesday it planned to restore gas service to the area by Nov. 19. Longmeadow Select Board Chairman Mark Gold worked for a chemicals manufacturer for nearly 35 years and said he's done extensive reading about the Merrimack Valley and Springfield gas explosions. He believes the cause of the Merrimack Valley explosion was a human or process error and not an equipment failure, which was also the case in the Springfield explosion. "There are at least two instances where something happened that hasn't gone right," Gold said. "That may be two out of two million, but for the two groups in that, it was pretty serious. The intent (behind this discussion) was to make sure the processes they use including those in Longmeadow have been reviewed and are under control by the Department of Public Utilities, since we have no idea what (Columbia Gas) is doing." No other town in the state has imposed a moratorium on Columbia Gas' work. The proposed moratorium would only allow for emergency work like repairs and would also prevent new home hookups. Some Select Board members said that might be unfair to homeowners, since the cause of last month's explosion is still unknown. The moratorium would not prevent Columbia Gas from fixing the nearly 100 pipeline leaks currently documented in the town. Dave Mueller, manager of field engineering at Columbia Gas, said that, in some instances, fixing the gas line is more complex than adding a new home to the system. "Whether they're repairing a (gas) line or putting in a new system, they're still breaking into the system," said board member Richard Foster. "We don't know what happened ... and I don't think (this moratorium) will solve a problem that hasn't been identified yet. We're very concerned on this board about what happened. But it seems we're being arbitrary between what's hazardous and what's not." Board members agreed that if they pass the moratorium, new home hookups could possibly be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Board member Marie Angelides suggested imposing stricter safety regulations than the DPU requires. "I think putting in regulations for what we expect in safety, like how (during public comment) someone spoke about the gas company's idling trucks and how workers were smoking during construction, certain regulations can be put in that require so many people on a job, or inspections before and after," Angelides said. "Whatever we think would be minimum safety requirements for our town ... and make sure they're followed. Then those would deal with the same issues, whether it was for a new hookup or a leak." Michele Marantz, chairwoman of the Longmeadow Pipeline Awareness Group, said the group is still concerned about safety and health risks posed by the pipeline and metering station, which would be built in conjunction with a Tennessee Gas pipeline. Tennessee Gas sells fuel to Columbia Gas. The companies aim to begin new pipeline construction in 2019 or 2020, according to Mueller. Marantz also called on Columbia Gas to answer pertinent health and safety questions. "Given the scientific studies that show that pipelines and metering stations leak harmful methane and other contaminants at every point along the transmission route, why would a metering station be proposed for a residential neighborhood that includes a nearby elementary school?" Marantz asked. "We understand that finding answers to these questions can be a daunting task, but we thoroughly support (the Select Board's) efforts to do so and applaud halting the project until our concerns are addressed. We also stand ready to help you achieve the transparency and accountability that needs to be a part of Longmeadow's future dealings with Tennessee Gas Pipeline and Columbia Gas." Meuller and Michael Kane, director of government affairs at Columbia Gas, said they would get back to the Select Board about the cause of the January gas incident in town. Board members said they would await that information before taking action on the moratorium proposal. Meanwhile, state Rep. Bud L. Williams, D-Springfield, is also proposing public hearings in Western Massachusetts with Columbia Gas in the aftermath of the gas explosions last month. SPRINGFIELD -- Hampden Superior Court Judge John S. Ferrara on Wednesday found a 28-year-old Ludlow man guilty of hitting several police officers as he fled away from the Five Town Plaza last year. Baron Coates was convicted of two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon for hitting two Springfield officers with his car on Aug. 10, 2017. One officer was in his unmarked car and the other was outside of his car. In relation to a third officer Coates was charged with hitting, Ferrara reduced the charge to assault and battery, taking away the dangerous weapon component. Ferrara found Cotes not guilty of hitting a fourth officer. In the jury-waived trial, Ferrara also found Coates guilty of two counts of leaving the scene of a personal injury accident and one count of leaving the scene of a property damage accident. Ferrara also found Coates guilty of reckless operation of a motor vehicle, failure to stop for police, improper storage of a firearm and possession of various drugs. Coates was sentenced to two and one half years in the Hampden County Correctional Center in Ludlow with one year to be served and the rest suspended with two years probation. Defense lawyer Daniel D. Kelly, saying Coates has no record, asked for a sentence of probation with no incarceration. Assistant District Attorney Patrick Bennett asked for a three- to five-year state prison sentence. Kelly said Coates, a father of four children, is extremely remorseful and knows he could have caused serious injury to others. Bennett said the facts of the case are "particularly egregious," saying Detective Robert Carter could have been run over when Coates drove into him. Carter testified he was hit on his torso twice by Coates' car. Coates took the stand in his own defense Wednesday, saying he saw "a Hispanic male exit the passenger side with his gun raised." "I ran, I panicked, I got scared," Coates said, saying he thought he was going to get shot. He said he only saw the gun and did not see the police badge Carter was wearing on his vest. It was only when he got to his mother's home he realized the men he was eluding were probably police officers, he said. Coates said he didn't hit Carter but that the unmarked police vehicles he was accused of hitting actually hit him. Taking the witness stand Tuesday, Carter testified that he and others were led to the parking lot where Coates was parked while they were doing surveillance on another person. Carter said although he arrived in an unmarked vehicle and was not in uniform, his badge was on his chest and he clearly said "Stop, police" several times as he approached Coates' car on foot with his gun holstered. SPRINGFIELD -- Jurors in the Alvin Paige Jr. domestic violence case will resume deliberations Wednesday in the trial before Hampden Superior Court Judge David Ricciardone. The jury of eight men and four women got the case for deliberations Tuesday afternoon after hearing closing arguments from lawyers and legal instructions from Ricciardone. Defense lawyer Jared Olanoff's closing argument stayed on the same track as he has followed throughout the trial. He said Pamela Schilling, who testified Paige strangled, suffocated and beat her, made up the entire incident because she was mad at Paige. "There was betrayal. There was sex. There were other women," Olanoff said. He said there were "a million things" at play at the time Schilling went to police to report an assault. Assistant District Attorney Robert A. Schmidt, in his closing argument, said Olanoff's argument made no sense. He said Schilling didn't go to police to report the June 24, 2017, assault until five days later because Paige told her he would kill her and her young daughter if she went to police. Schmidt said if Schilling was making up the incident, she would not have told police it happened five days earlier. It did not help her case to tell police she waited to report the assault, he said, so there is no reason she would have reported a delay. "There's no other explanation for these bruises, none," he said. "His (Paige's) testimony could not have been more self-serving," Schmidt said, saying Paige was evasive under cross-examination. Olanoff said there were large gaps in Schilling's testimony. "If it doesn't make any sense, there's a good reason," he said. "It didn't happen." The defense lawyer said Schilling had a reason to feel betrayed by Paige, but told jurors they are tasked with finding the truth about the charges against the 49-year-old defendant. In his cross-examination Schmidt asked Paige about the meaning of a letter he sent to Schilling in July 2017, after he had been arrested for the charges of assaulting her. In the letter, Paige wrote that he was sorry she relocated to Springfield from Florida "to have it end up like this." "I wish you could have been a little more patient," Paige wrote. Paige said on the stand Schilling made up everything of which she accused him. Paige, of Springfield, is on trial for two counts of strangulation and a count each of kidnapping, threatening to commit murder, assault on a family or household member and intimidation of a witness. A Massachusetts man accused of attacking someone with a crucifix was arrested in Billerica Wednesday. Police arrested 39-year-old Torrey Smith of Wilmington during a traffic stop at 2:30 a.m. The arrest was in connection to an Aug. 22 incident in Billerica where Smith allegedly forced his way into a former girlfriend's home. He is accused is attacking her and an acquaintance. "During the incident, Smith is alleged to have assaulted an individual with a wooden crucifix resulting in significant tissue damage to their nose," police said. Smith ran from the scene. Officers continued to search for him after the alleged attack. Billerica Officer Rafael Mendez was investigating a civil motor vehicle infraction on Boston Road in Billerica when he noticed the passenger inside the car was Smith. Police say Smith gave a fake name at first, but then the officer was able to positively identify him. Smith was arrested on warrants in connection to the assaults. Befitting a day celebrating a man who went on long voyages, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation warned Tuesday of likely traffic delays over Columbus Day weekend. MassDOT said it expects heavy traffic during late afternoon hours on Thursday, and Friday, especially on highways leading toward popular fall destinations including Cape Cod, New Hampshire and Maine. MassDOT said there will be some changes in Boston-area highway schedules this weekend to cope with Columbus Day: The Boston I-93 HOV lane will open early on Thursday at 2 p.m., and at 1 p.m. on Friday. It will not be deployed on Monday. The Sumner Tunnel Swing Lane will open at 3 p.m. on Friday and will remain open until 5 a.m. on Tuesday. Drivers will be paying more to fuel their vehicles this year -- regular gasoline in Massachusetts averages $2.87 a gallon, down from $2.88 last month but up from last year when it averaged $2.65, according to AAA. In Greater Springfield, a gallon of regular averages $2.81. That's that's the same as a month ago but higher than the $2.62 a gallon average one year ago. Also, the MBTA will operate on a weekday schedule on Monday. See mbta.com for details. In the Pioneer Valley, PVTA buses in the Springfield area and Northampton will run Monday on a Sunday schedule. PVTA UMass Amherst service will have reduced service Monday for Indigenous People's Day. More details are available here. MassDOT said Registry of Motor Vehicles offices will be closed Monday. BOSTON - A Mexican national who had been deported nine times in 14 years was sentenced Tuesday for illegally re-entering the country. Bulmaro Enriquez, 32, also faces pending state charges for domestic assault and battery and has prior convictions for drug possession and drunken driving, said Christina DiLorio-Sterling, spokeswoman for U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling. Enriquez was sentenced to eight months in prison and two years of supervised release in U.S. District Court. He is also subject to deportation hearings again once he is released, she said. In April 2017 Enriquez was arrested in Framingham in November 2017 and charged with domestic assault and battery. While he was out on bail, immigration officers tracked him down and charged him with illegal entry. He was released from federal custody after posting the equity of his girlfriend's home as bail but violated conditions of his release by testing positive for using cocaine and buprenorphine, she said. Enriquez was most recently deported in 2016 after being convicted in Framingham after police seized 1.5 pounds of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. After completing his sentence, he was determined to be in the country illegally and ordered removed to Mexico. Sometime after that he returned, DiLorio-Sterling said. According to court records, Enriquez, who has a lengthy criminal record, has been deported previously on Oct. 12, 2004; Nov. 22, 2004; Jan. 10, 2005; Nov. 7, 2005; March 6, 2006; April 18, 2006; Nov. 27, 2007; April 1, 2008; and Feb. 2016, she said. Lelling and Todd M. Lyons, Acting Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Enforcement and Removal Operations, made the announcement of the conviction. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Lelling's Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case. A 60-year-old man missing for a week was found dead by police divers searching the Housatonic River where his vehicle was found submerged. German Perez, of Sheffield, was reported missing on Sept. 25 to Massachusetts State Police. He had been in Lakeville, Connecticut and was driving back to his home but never arrived. The concerns were then forwarded to Connecticut State Police. Police initially found a damaged guardrail and other evidence that a car had gone off the road on Route 44 in North Canaan, near the Housatonic River. The next day, divers found a Toyota Tundra submerged in the river but no one was inside the vehicle, Connecticut State Police said. The Connecticut State Police Dive team searched the river for several days and on Wednesday found the body of Perez about a mile south of where his truck crashed, police said. "Positive identification was made and next of kin was notified today," police said. An autopsy will be performed at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Farmington, police said. The Connecticut Collision Accident Reconstruction Section recovered the vehicle and investigated at the scene, police said. WEST SPRINGFIELD -- The busy Morgan-Sullivan bridge along Rt. 147 will be reduced to two travel lanes for 36 to 40 months, but preliminary and finish work will extend the time frame further still. "There's basically 47 months of construction," said Shawn Clark, project manager for Northern Construction Service, LLC, which submitted the low bid of $21.5 million to rebuild the Westfield River span linking West Springfield and Agawam. Work started in September. One lane each way will be available this month, and four travel lanes should be restored by spring of 2021. "Full beneficial use" with five lanes is slated for spring of 2022, with project completion expected in August of that year. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation hosted a public outreach meeting Tuesday night where project leaders addressed a skeptical crowd of around 60 packed into the upstairs meeting room at the West Springfield municipal building. "The bridge is 72 years old," said Peter Cavicchi, MassDOT Interim District 2 Highway Director. "The lifespan for a bridge is generally 75 years. When it gets to be this old, it's time to replace it." The bridge will have two travel lanes and a turning lane. Pedestrian and bicycle lanes will be added. New sidewalks and roadway sections will be built in both communities. Three intersections will be reconstructed, with synchronized traffic signals. New stormwater infrastructure is part of the package, and the bridge will also see major structural work. Clark and Cavicchi talked about the phased road work, bridge work, and utility relocation. They said to expect pauses due to winter weather, because concrete and asphalt are temperature-dependent, and because some work in the river can't be done when water levels are high. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times, and police details will be added, the project team said. Following the presentation, local officials and residents from both communities stepped to the microphone to ask questions and express concerns. Several, including Agawam City Council Vice President Cecilia Calabrese, said they anticipate major traffic backups during the annual Eastern States Exposition, especially with the bridge down to two lanes. The contract between Northern Construction and MassDOT prohibits construction during the 17-day Big E in West Springfield, said Clark. "Please start talking to the Big E as soon as possible," one woman implored. Construction will potentially divert many motorists westward to the narrow Strathmore Bridge -- but roads leading to that span are at times blocked by CSX freight trains, some remarked. "What's more important -- public safety or railroads?" asked resident Richard Michnovetz, who brought up the topic of ambulances and fire trucks. Agawam Mayor William Sapelli and West Springfield Mayor William Reichelt said they had met with CSX, and that U.S. Rep. Richard Neal has worked for authorization to get a warning signal installed that will warn motorists ahead of time if a train is blocking the roadway. The two mayors asked MassDOT and Northern Construction to keep them in the loop about any communication they have with CSX. Several business owners expressed trepidation. A commercial landlord in Agawam said he is already having problems renting space, because "people are afraid" of the impact of upcoming construction. A man who owns business property on the West Springfield side said he fears economic harm. Sapelli said he understands it will be a rough few years, but that MassDOT has been good about communicating, and that people will appreciate the improvement when the bridge and road work is done. "In the meantime, we've all got to suck it up and do the best we can," Sapelli said. West Springfield resident Jan Hall asked if the construction involved coordinating with Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, which plans a major infrastructure expansion in the region. The new bridge will carry an expanded 12-inch-diameter natural gas pipeline that's compliant with Columbia's "Greater Springfield Reliability Project," MassDOT engineer Richard Masse confirmed. The current bridge carries a smaller gas line. State officials said the project site was tricky from a permitting perspective, in part because of the flood control levees in West Springfield, and in part because the Big E fairgrounds are eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. The lengthy, four-year project schedule is partly due to environmental permitting parameters, the presenters said. Submittals have been made to the Army Corps of Engineers and to other regulatory bodies. Public outreach coordinator Sarah Paritsky, of Regina Villa Associates, said MassDOT has launched a project website, and she encouraged residents to sign up for email updates. She said those with questions or comments may send an email to MorganSullivanBridge@dot.state.ma.us. 2018-10-02 MassDOT slides on Morgan-Sullivan Bridge by Mary Serreze on Scribd NORTHAMPTON - Northampton activists have planned a rally against the confirmation of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Kavanagh, who was selected by President Donald Trump to join the federal court, has since been accused of sexual assault and is facing a FBI investigation. Earlier this year, California professor Christine Blasey Ford sent a letter to Sen. Dianne Feinstein, of California, saying that when she was a teenager Kavanaugh pushed her into a bedroom, groped her, tried to remove her clothes, and covered her mouth when she tried to scream. Ford and Kavanaugh have since testified before a senate committee on the allegations. The "Believe Survivors" march and rally in Northampton will be in support of Ford, organizers said Wednesday. The rally will take place Thursday evening from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. The rally will begin at Northampton City Hall where remarks will be made. Activists will then march down Main Street. OROVILLE, Calif. - Nationwide, reports suggest that the new trade deal will benefit American dairy farmers. Bob Bignami of Brentwood Farms in Oroville, says that while this may be true, he's more interested in what numbers will look like from another country: Mexico. "In effect, it's a very minuscule part of the agreement," Bignami said. Bignami adds that the impact on the dairy industry has become a big talking point because of the high tariffs that Canada places on dairy imports. They range from roughly 240 percent for milk to 300 percent for butter. The trade agreement would also open roughly 3.5 percent of the Canadian milk market to US farmers, Bignami says. But he believes those profits would mostly be seen by farmers living near the border between US and Canada. Mexico was the largest importers of American dairy products in 2017, importing 25 percent of total US milk exports. President Trump and his counterparts in Mexico and Canada are expected to sign the deal by the end of November. From there it will be up to Congress to approve the deal. SPRINGFIELD -- A regional tourism bureau plans to push for passage of a new 1 percent assessment charged to city hotel guests that would be used to bolster tourism efforts in the Greater Springfield area. But an unrelated hotel room tax hike in Springfield died in City Council committee this week rather than come up for consideration. A 1 percent tourism assessment supported by the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau did not pass the state Legislature this year but will be pursued again in 2019, said Mary Kay Wydra, bureau president. If approved, the revenue from the assessment would go directly to regional tourism bureaus in the state for their marketing efforts. As proposed, the tourism assessment is "enabling legislation," meaning communities would have the power to adopt or not adopt the added tax if a "tourism destination marketing district" is formed. The proposal occurs as the City Council chose this week not to pursue a 1 percent increase in the city's hotel room tax from 5 percent to 6 percent, the maximum allowed by law. It automatically died in committee as not acted on within the 120-day limit under council rules. The lead sponsor, Councilor Timothy J. Allen, said he was hoping the tax increase would help the city's severely underfunded pension system, but felt it was best to let the tax idea die for now rather than possibly compete with the bureau's proposal for the tourism tax. Hotel guests in Springfield pay a 5 percent room tax to the city, a 5.7 percent room tax to the state and a 2.75 percent convention center tax for a total of 13.45 percent. The convention center tax is levied in Springfield, West Springfield, Chicopee, Boston, Cambridge and Worcester and goes toward paying convention center debt, Wydra said. Wydra said she is thankful the council is not pursuing the room tax proposal, saying it helps to keep Springfield competing for convention center business and competitive with other communities in its hotel room tax levies. She and members of her board met with Allen and Councilor Michael Fenton when the hotel room tax was under review. There are seven hotels in Springfield with a total of 1,352 rooms. That includes the newly opened 252-room MGM Springfield hotel and the recently opened 98-room Holiday Inn Express on State Street. Allen said a 1 percent increase in the hotel room tax could have raised $250,000 or more in annual revenues. At 27 percent funded, the city's pension system for municipal and school employees is the worst-funded public pension system in Massachusetts, city officials said. The revenue from the hotel room tax goes to the city's general fund, but the mayor and City Council have agreed to have a more aggressive plan to fully fund the pension system. Wydra said she believes a tourism assessment in California and in other states has been a successful mechanism to promote tourism. The legislation here would allow a tourism assessment of 1 to 3 percent, at local option, but the visitors bureau favors a 1 percent fee, she said. There have been discussions with local hotel officials, who have been supportive, Wydra said. Under the legislation, tourism officials work with the hotels on prioritizing the use of the funds, she said. "The beauty of this is, locally, you can make the determination with hotel input on how the funding is spent," Wydra said. There is general agreement here that the revenue from the assessment would particularly focus on enhancing tourism and hotel stays in the less busy season from November to March, Wydra said. Generally, the area hotel business is doing well, Wydra said. Hotel occupancy in Hampden County increased by 4 percent in August compared to the same month a year ago, and hotel stays in the county are up 9 percent for the year, she said. The opening of the MGM Springfield casino is helpful to the hotel business in the region, as tracked by Smith Travel Research statewide, Wydra said. Arlington police are asking for help finding a 16-year-old girl who has been missing since Saturday. Ashley Ryan was last seen wearing blue jeans, a black tank top, a black sweater and black sneakers. She has two piercings on her tongue and a tattoo on one of her ankles. She could be in the Boston Commons or Downtown Crossing area, police said. Anyone with information should contact police at 781-643-1212. What's $1.26 billion between political rivals? A Massachusetts ballot question that seeks to set mandated nurse-patient ratios in hospitals has become a well-funded and bitter struggle. It pits progressive groups and the Massachusetts Nurses Association union, who are in favor of the proposed law, against hospitals, other medical professional groups and the American Nurses Association of Massachusetts. And advocates and opponents are not simply divided on the law's potential effects. Rather, they are working from entirely different math. The Coalition to Protect Patient Safety, an anti-Question 1 group funded by hospitals, has estimated the first-year cost of the measure at $1.31 billion and $900 million in subsequent years. The union-funded Committee to Ensure Safe Patient Care, which supports the measure, predicts a cost of $35 million to $47 million -- less than 4 percent of their opponents' forecast. And the state's Executive Office of Administration and Finance says the measure would cost just Massachusetts' four state-run hospitals between $67.8 million and $74.8 million per year. A study commissioned by the Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association was performed by two research firms, BW Research Partnership and Mass Insight. The researchers surveyed hospital leaders, obtained staffing data and reviewed public workforce figures to come to a stark conclusion about the measure's unintended consequences. "The data suggest that a one-size-fits-all statewide implementation will be a costly and poor allocation of resources, leading to greater inequity in the provision of care, less local access to healthcare, and reduced patient choice," the study said. "Furthermore, hospitals may be forced to hire less experienced and educated RNs, which would likely offset any quality and safety improvements that the proposal's sponsors believe would follow from MNSR adoption." But proponents of the measure have dismissed that analysis as fear mongering, citing a study by Boston College nursing economist Judith Shindul-Rothschild which found dramatically lower costs. Hospitals could cover much of the cost by trimming administrative fat and redirecting those resources to nurse hiring, Shindul-Rothschild argued in a news release. "The majority of Massachusetts hospitals could easily meet the requirements of the law simply by shifting approximately 3 percent of the proportion of their budget currently allocated to non-direct care managers and hospital administrators, to RNs and hospital unit staff who provide direct patient care as was done in California hospitals after the enactment of their law," said Shindul-Rothschild, a past president of the Massachusetts Nurses Association. "At the end of the day, we estimate that after implementing the limits of Question 1 our state's hospitals would still retain a mean profit margin of $15 million a year." The MHA-funded study also says that some medical facilities in Western Massachusetts, the Cape and Islands and Metrowest region may close entirely. Mercy Medical Center in Springfield has estimated a $13.8 million cost, saying it would lead to bed closures and cuts to community health programs. UMass Memorial Health Care estimates a $38 million loss at its hospitals in Worcester, Marlborough and Leominster, predicting increased ER wait times and further community health program reductions. Shindul-Rothschild's analysis found dramatically lower costs: $2.04 million for Mercy, and $638,000 for UMass Memorial hospitals. "Yes, there's a gulf there. There's no question," Shindul-Rothschild said in an interview. The wildly diverging cost estimates stem from major differences in how each study calculates costs. The anti-Question 1 study includes $86 million in recruitment costs, $249 million in turnover costs, $45 million in training reimbursement and $58 million for "acuity tools" to track patients after the law comes into effect. The pro-Question 1 study only factors in additional nurse wages, explaining some of the difference. But the bulk of the disparity lies in assumptions about how many new nurses will be needed -- and which nurses were counted in the analysis. The Mass Insight study estimates that the measure will require the hiring of 5,911 new nurses to meet requirements, and that all will have to be hired before the question comes into effect on Jan. 1. That figure includes both 4,500 new nurse positions and 1,200 currently vacant nurse positions opponents say will be needed to comply with the law. Shindul-Rothschild's analysis is based on an estimate of 539 new full time RNs -- a difference that accounts for hundreds of millions of dollars per year. She included an upper estimate of 1,617 nurses to account for the extra factors used by the MHA, but did not include that figure in her cost estimate because she could not obtain hourly wage data to make those calculations. Proponents have touted that study's modest estimates as evidence that the Massachusetts healthcare system could easily absorb the costs of mandatory staffing rations. But Rothschild's study does not include all facilities which would be affected by the law. Staffing in post-acute hospitals, three pediatric specialty hospitals, as well as maternity units and operating rooms in acute care hospitals were not included because those figures were not publicly reported, according to her study. In an interview, Shindul-Rothschild acknowledged that her analysis was limited to the data she could obtain. She also said she calculated ER nurse loads assuming that patients were stable, allowing for a lower staffing level, because she could not accurately model the conditions of patients at different hospitals. "I made every effort to be as transparent as possible so people could look at it and do the math themselves," she said. But she said those methodological differences could not explain the massive difference in staffing estimates, saying Question 1 opponents had made faulty assumptions. In one case, the MHA studies cites the Bureau of Labor Statistics to claim there are over 85,000 RN positions in Massachusetts, using that figure to calculate growth in nurse hiring. But that figure includes all nurses, not just the 24,000 in hospitals affected by the proposal, Shindul-Rothschild said. "That makes no sense," she said. Asked about the $1.25 billion gap, the opposing Coalition to Protect Patient Safety pointed to major differences in how each study assumes the law would be enforced. "The one put forward by the proponents is simply laughable," Coalition to Protect Patient Safety spokesman Dan Cence said. Shindul-Rothschild's study calculated required staffing levels based on average numbers of patients and nurses -- meaning, for example, that a single full-time nurse could cover the needs of five stable ER patients. But the opposing study calculated staffing as if the law was enforced strictly as written -- with all its requirements going into effect on January 1, and any violation of staffing ratios at any time leading to $25,000 fines for hospitals. To avoid any violations, that study estimated staffing needed to cover any unexpected patient increases as well as lunch breaks, vacations and sick days taken by nurses. The researchers for the MHA-funded study also had access to non-public staffing information from surveys issued to hospitals, allowing them to more fully calculate hiring needs, Cence said. While California's staffing ratio law included a five-year rollout period and waiver provisions for small hospitals, no such escape valves exists in the more stringent Massachusetts proposal, Cence said. "The law they're trying to get passed here does not resemble California in any shape or form," Cence said. "They've crafter a draconian measure that's as rigid and strict as possible." Proponents have accused the Massachusetts Hospital Association of misrepresenting the law, saying that while it would go into effect in January it requires that the state's Health Policy Commission draw up regulations to implement it -- a process that could give hospitals time to adjust. Advocates have also said that hospitals would not face automatic $25,000 fines. The proposal said that hospitals in violation would be required to submitted compliance plans to the commission, who could then refer cases to the Attorney General for civil enforcement if violations continue. The Health Policy Commission plans to unveil its own analysis of the ballot question on Wednesday. SPRINGFIELD - Denise Jordan and Lucia "Lucy" Giuggio Carvalho have much to celebrate at Baystate Health's Rays of Hope Walk & Run Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer Oct. 21 in Forest Park. They are both breast cancer survivors with Carvalho participating annually as the fund-raiser's founder 25 years ago and Jordan participating during this special anniversary year as its chair. The event, which draws about 24,000 participants, has raised more than $14.2 million to date with monies administered by the Baystate Health Foundation to assist patients and their families affected by breast cancer. Funds helped establish the Rays of Hope Center for Breast Cancer Research as well fund the Baystate Health Breast Network's Survivorship Program. Jordan, who was in attendance, along with Carvalho, at a recent event at the D'Amour Center for Cancer Care celebrating the growth of the Rays of Hope Center's Breast Research Registry, said she was "deeply honored" to chair this year's event. "As a survivor you know first-hand the work that they do here," said Jordan, adding her breast cancer was diagnosed early and that she was treated at Baystate in 2014. "I also like being part of a fund-raiser where the proceeds go directly to help women in the region. You know where the money is going." Jordan, a long-time member of the Rays of Hope Community Advisory Board, said she is chairing the event to bring awareness not only as a survivor but also "in memory of one of my best friends - Tracy Whitley - who worked for Baystate Health and battled cancer for a number of years." "She was my inspiration," said Jordan of Whitley who died at the age of 50 in 2017. The former long-time chief of staff to Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, Jordan began her new job as head of the Springfield Housing Authority Monday, Oct. 1, a few days after helping to organize the Pink, Diamonds & Denim benefit that raised $17,000 for Rays of Hope. Carvalho has called the evolution of the Rays of Hope walk that she started while she was in recovery from breast cancer treatment "a miracle" in terms of how it has grown and how "this community has really pulled together." A registered nurse who worked in Baystate Medical Center's oncology unit, Carvalho was only 38 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1993. She was inspired by other walks in Boston at the time to approach Baystate about one to raise funds here for breast health services. The first walk attracted some 500 walkers and raised $50,000. Dr. Grace Makari-Judson, medical oncologist, co-director of the Rays of Hope Center for Breast Cancer Research and chair of the Baystate Health Breast Network, paid tribute to Carvalho in a release about the Oct. 21 event. "Lucy's inspirational goal of enhancing the experience of individuals and their families with breast cancer by providing resources, coordinating care and cultivating expertise right here at Baystate has well hit its mark," said Makari-Judson who has participated in the event since it began. "As for her goal of finding a cure, that's why we still walk." The decline in annual death rates from breast cancer in the U.S. has been attributed to improvement in both treatment and detection. It is estimated there are some 3.1 million breast cancer survivors today in the U.S. The disease is more common in African American women under 45 than white women, and African American women are overall said to be more likely to die of the disease. The risk of developing and dying from breast cancer is said to be lower in Asian, Hispanic and Native American women. It is estimated that 1 in 8 U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. A man's lifetime risk of breast cancer is said to be about 1 in 1,000. The fund-raiser, for which registration can be done online, steps off from Temple Beth El, 979 Dickinson St., and winds through and around Forest Park with a choice of either a two-mile or five-mile route for walkers. The 9th Annual Run Toward the Cure 8K is coordinated and timed by Fleet Feet. Check-in for the run begins at 7:30 a.m. followed by step off at 8:30 a.m.; check-in for the walk begins at 9 a.m. with step off at 10:30 a.m. The stage program begins at 9:45 a.m. Parking for runners is only at the Lenox American Saw lot in East Longmeadow. Buses begin operating at 7:30 a.m. for runners to be shuttled to Beth El and at 8:30 a.m. for walkers to be shuttled. Information on other parking options for walkers is available online. More information about the event, held rain or shine, is available online. SPRINGFIELD - Sitting with a bagel and a cup of coffee inside the South End Dunkin' Donuts, Springfield police officer Stephen Tyburski said it's all in a day's work. "It's not so bad," he said. Tyburski was not taking a break; he was where he was supposed to be, and doing what he was supposed to be doing: drinking coffee and chatting with anyone interested in talking to him. Springfield police, joined police department across the country on Wednesday, with staging Coffee with a Cop meetings across the city. Officers converged on 6 Dunkin' Donut locations and one McDonald's for two hours. The events were not a law-enforcement thing, as much as they were a community-building thing. Tyburski said the sit-downs are part of creating "an open dialog" between police and residents. "It allows anyone who want to talk to come up and ask questions," he said. Tyburski, a member of the Ordinance Enforcement Unit, said he had several conversations with residents. Some of them were serious, about quality of life problems that need address, and some were just pleasant exchanges and how-are-you-doing small talk. Some of the conversations leads to what the police call actionable intelligence. This can be someone with too much trash in their yard, or felony activity the next block over. Beyond that, it also allows people to realize the cops are approachable. "Mommy! Mommy!,' a young boy shouted as his mother put cream and sugar in her coffee. "It's the police!" He pointed to the corner where some officers were sitting. He was given a badge sticker to put on his sweatshirt. A 21-year veteran, Tyburski said it's really quite a change from when he started with the department and relations between the police and public were not alway so cordial. "It's different," he said. "It's no so bad." Sara Westhaver, a spokeswoman for Dunkin', said " Dunkin' Donuts franchisees in Western Massachusetts are proud to partner with local law enforcement to support their 'Coffee with Cop' initiatives. Being a part of local community, they are committed to serving those who serve others." Coffee with a Cop events started a few years ago and rapidly spread across the law enforcement community nationwide. Hundreds of departments including several in Western Massachusetts recognized pretty quickly that the sit-downs are a simple, quick and cost-efficient way of connecting with members of the general public. For members of the public, it is an opportunity to meet with police in a quiet, friendly, non-confrontational way. It's a chance to interact rather than to act and react. Carolyne Meuse said she was a fan. Meuse, the complex care coordinator for Mercy Medical Center, stopped in at the Dunkin Donuts for the scheduled meeting of the South End C3 team and found the Coffee with a Cop session ongoing. "I think it's amazing," she said. "It is amazing the work they do on behalf of the public." Events like this help to demystify police officers and make it easier for people to approach police for help. The Metro Unit, in particular, is doing great work in making the South End safe for residents and visitors. Officer Martin Curley, assigned to the C3/Metro unit, which patrols the South End and downtown, said measures to increase interaction between the police and the public have benefitted both. Since the casino opened, he commonly sees visitors walking around in the South End, where just a few years ago that would have been rare. People will commonly come up to him on the street and ask questions or seek directions. Residents seem less distant or reluctant to talk to police. "We're seeing changes," he said. Yolanda Cancel, the C3 coordinator for the South End, said the shift in the department under Commissioner John Barbieri over the last few years has helped improve relations between police and the public. She said years ago she witnessed her son being beaten by police and said it affected her view of officers. Now, having interacted with officers at C3 meetings, on the streets of the South End, and at sessions like Coffee with a Cop, she said view of police has changed. "If a cop is bad, he's also bad out of uniform. If a cop is good, you get a sense of who he is out of uniform," she said. AMHERST - An educator at the University of Massachusetts Amherst has received a grant that she will use to help local community college students gain experience conducting scientific research. Trisha L. Andrew, an associate professor of chemistry at UMass, has been given a $2,500 L'Oreal USA Changing the Face of STEM grant. Andrew, whose lab specializes in wearable technology and textile electronics, will train ten students from the Springfield Technical Community College as interns in a program to create garment-integrated sensors. The students will be provided with a stipend for their work with the program. The training and work will take place over the 2018-19 academic year and be facilitated in collaboration with STCC's STEM Starter Academy, which seeks to foster STEM experience for students. Andrew said that she hoped the program "entice a diverse student population to become scientists and fortify the number of underrepresented students in chemistry and engineering." Andrew is one of ten educators throughout the country that has been awarded such a grant by L'Oreal, the French makeup and skincare company. The program seeks to provide mentoring opportunities for women and girls in STEM fields. One of the students to recently graduate from the STEM Starter Academy, Emerson Alexander, now works in Andrew's lab, UMass announced. She has made contributions to a project develop fabric patches that shift color when the person wearing them has been exposed to dangerous levels of ultraviolet light. Worcester is in talks with at least two bike sharing companies to bring dockless bicycles back to the city. City Manager Edward M. Augustus Jr. confirmed that the city has spoken with LimeBike about bringing its bike sharing program to Worcester, while a public records request shows that the city has also been in talks with Gotcha Bike as an additional provider. "We're going to explore things, I talked to LimeBike back a month or two ago. I think they're interested," Augustus said, adding that if the company does come to Worcester, it wouldn't be until the spring. "There's a place for bike sharing in Worcester, we'll have bike sharing in Worcester, but it won't be in this calendar year." Earlier this year, Chinese bike sharing company ofo pulled its dockless yellow bikes out of Worcester amid a nationwide downsizing. According to emails from the City Manager's office obtained by MassLive through a public records request, the city was in talks with LimeBike before ofo pulled out of Worcester. The city has also had discussions with Gotcha Bike, a Charleston, South Carolina-based company that offers, bike, scooter and ride-sharing. Augustus said last month that the city is not looking into electric scooters. Ride share Scooters made a sudden appearance in Boston earlier this year. He said he likes the idea of another dockless system, but without the "free-for-all" that happened with ofo, as bikes were left scattered across the city. Months after the company left Worcester, the occasional person riding a bright yellow ofo bike, usually with the GPS device removed, can still be spotted around the city Augustus said a logical collection and replacement of the bikes in places like Union Station and the DCU Center on a nightly basis would make more sense. "That's one of the things we talked with LimeBike about and we've been trying to do research. There's a bunch of other new vendors and they're popping up quick," he said. Augustus said the technology of dockless bikes is also evolving quickly. "I think ofo went quick and I don't think they fully thought through their model, just where the GPS device was, it invited knocking it off and taking the bike, so I think from what I'm hearing they're embedding some of the GPS stuff into the frame of the bike so it's harder to get away with that," he said. Eric Batista, chief of operations and project management for the City Manager's Office, wrote in an email that Gotcha could provide an alternative option to the Worcester Regional Transit Authority for the city's colleges. Gotcha Ride is a micro-transit service that uses a fleet of electric vehicles for on-demand, fixed route and special event transportation. Each city's system can be customized so users can catch rides using the company's app, a 1-800 phone number or by waving down a vehicle. The company already operates fleets at several colleges, including the University of South Carolina, the University of Florida, Auburn University, Florida State University and others. Want to tour a castle tucked away in Worcester? The Bancroft Tower at Salisbury Park will be open to the public for tours every Sunday in October from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Offering a beautiful skyline view of the city, Bancroft Tower is named after George Bancroft, a former Secretary of the Navy and historian from Worcester. Stephen Salisbury III built Bancroft Tower because Bancroft was his father's childhood friend. The tower is 56-feet high and was constructed in 1900. Snacks from local vendors will be available. The Park Spirit of Worcester said the event is free but is asking people to make a $1 donation. There is parking near the tower and along Bancroft Tower Road and Massachusetts Avenue. The Worcester Biomanufacturing Park is set to undergo the next phase of redevelopment thanks to a $15 million state grant. The grant will be used to complete an environmental remediation and demolition of the Bryan Building, the largest building on the former Worcester State Hospital campus. That work will allow the Worcester Business Development Corporation to move forward with the creation of pad-ready sites for biomanufacturing companies. "Today is an exciting day for the WBDC as we take yet another step forward in positioning the City of Worcester and the Commonwealth as a place to build another industry cluster focused on the cutting edge of health care," WBDC President and CEO Craig Blais said in a statement. The 44-acre site was purchased through the state's Open for Business initiative last year. The site, adjacent to the UMass Science Park, formerly known as the Massachusetts Biotechnology Research Park, will be dedicated to biomanufacturing. The $15 million grant will be used to conduct the environmental remediation and demolition of one of the largest buildings remaining on the former Worcester State Hospital campus - the Bryan Building. The Bryan Building was built in 1955 to accommodate the growing needs of the time. The 380,000-square-foot building remained as the primary facility for the Worcester State Hospital campus until 2012 when the new Massachusetts Department of Mental Health Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital opened its doors. Chinese biologics firm WuXi Biologics announced this summer that it will be the park's first tenant, with plans to build a $60 million facility there that will employ 150 people. "This Commonwealth is a world leader in the life sciences and biomanufacturing with leading companies, top-tier colleges and universities, and a globally-competitive workforce," Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito said in a statement. "I have been pleased to work on the development of Worcester Biomanufacturing Park and our administration remains committed to supporting this public private partnership to support economic development opportunities here in Worcester and across Massachusetts." SPRINGFIELD -- U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Republican challenger Geoff Diehl will meet in Springfield later this month for the first and only Western Massachusetts debate ahead of the November general election. The Democratic incumbent and Whitman state representative will go head-to-head on hot-button topics and issues impacting local voters -- including questions submitted by the public -- during an Oct. 21 forum at WGBY-TV. The hour-long debate, hosted by The Springfield Public Forum and the Western Massachusetts Media Consortium, will be broadcast live on WGBY-TV and WWLP-22's CW Springfield Station beginning at 7 p.m. It will also be broadcast on NPR affiliate New England Public Radio, 88.5 FM, and stream live on MassLive.com, as well as the websites of other partner organizations. Those looking to witness the debate in person can pick up tickets at The Republican's newspaper offices, located at 1860 Main Street in Springfield, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. beginning on Oct. 15. Tickets are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Carrie Saldo, host and producer of WGBY-TV's Connecting Point will moderate the debate, which will come just weeks before the Nov. 6 general election. In addition to Warren and Diehl, independent U.S. Senate candidate Shiva Ayyadurai will also be on the November ballot. Ayyadurai has filed suit against the University of Massachusetts, claiming it excluded him from a late October U.S. Senate debate. Republican U.S. Senate candidate Geoff Diehl touted his work on Beacon Hill, stressed his support for law enforcement officials and sought to contrast himself to incumbent Democrat Elizabeth Warren in a new television campaign ad released Tuesday. The 30-second television spot -- the first of Diehl's campaign -- highlighted the Whitman state representative's success in leading the 2014 effort to repeal automatic indexing of the state gas tax. It also took aim at Warren's August claim that the American criminal justice system is "racist ... front to back" -- an issue Diehl raised ahead of the September primary. The Republican Senate hopeful, who previously accused Warren of "creating an environment that is anti-law enforcement," argued that he believes police officers are "heroes: The men and women who put their lives on the line everyday." Despite focusing on Warren's controversial remark, the Republican candidate stressed in the ad that he's "out to stop partisan gridlock in Washington" and is committed to serving Massachusetts. "My campaign isn't about party politics, it's about getting the job done for Massachusetts," he said in the ad, which will run on various cable stations. Diehl has repeatedly suggested that Warren is more focused on a potential 2020 presidential run than on serving her constituents -- a claim he echoed in a Tuesday fundraising email to supporters. "I'm running for United States Senate against Elizabeth Warren because it's time for Massachusetts to have a senator who puts them first!" he said. "Elizabeth Warren is too busy pandering to the radical wing of her party to win. She knows she'll need their support to mount a 2020 White House run." Warren continued to stoke the idea of a possible White House bid on Saturday when she told supporters at a Holyoke town hall that she would "take a hard look at running president" after the 2018 election. Diehl will square off against Warren and independent U.S. Senate candidate Shiva Ayyadurai in the Nov. 6 general election. The Massachusetts Health Policy Commission said Wednesday that a ballot question mandating nurse staffing ratios will cost $676 million to $949 million a year once it is fully implemented. There would be another $57.9 million in one-time costs for implementation. The Health Policy Commission is an independent state agency tasked with analyzing health care policy, and the cost estimates provide the first independent analysis of the ballot question. The question's supporters and opponents have also released studies. The November ballot question would mandate specific nurse to patient staffing ratios, with the exact ratios varying by unit. Supporters, led by the Massachusetts Nurses Association, say this will make patients safer by ensuring nurses are able to provide adequate care. Opponents, led by the state's hospital trade association, say this will limit the flexibility of hospitals to set the staffing ratios that make sense for the circumstances, and will cost hospitals too much money, potentially forcing unit closures. The Health Policy Commission analysis found that the ballot question would require Massachusetts hospitals to hire the equivalent of an additional 2,286 to 3,101 full-time nurses. Community hospitals with a high percentage of Medicaid and Medicare patients would have to hire the most new nurses, compared to current staffing, with an expected increase of 21 percent to 30 percent. Psychiatric units and labor and delivery units would face the largest percent increases in staffing required under the ballot question. The Health Policy Commission said there would be some cost savings based on reduced hospital stays and fewer health problems stemming from inadequate staffing. The commission pegged this savings at $34 million to $47 million, though it could be somewhat higher after factoring in lower turnover and fewer injuries among nurses. The cost estimate reflects both the cost of adding new nurses and the cost of raising wages for existing nurses. Higher demand for nurses is expected to increase wages by 4 to 6 percent, according to the commission. In a statement, Julie Pinkham, executive director of the Massachusetts Nurses Association, called the estimate "irresponsible and inconsistent" and said it "resembles nothing that the HPC has ever done before." She suggested that the cost estimates were based on data provided by the hospitals, who oppose the ballot question. "This is the fox guarding the henhouse," Pinkham said. Dan Cence, a spokesman for the Coalition to Protect Patient Safety, which opposes the ballot question, said in a statement, "The Health Policy Commission's analysis confirms that the negative consequences are too great and the costs are too high for rigid, government mandated nurse staffing ratios in the Commonwealth." Cence warned that if the ballot question passes, community hospitals will close, mental health beds will be cut and emergency room wait times will increase. "The entire healthcare ecosystem will suffer irreparable harm with no increase in the quality of patient care," Cence said. The study was conducted by David Auerbach, director for research and cost trends at the Health Policy Commission, and Joanne Spetz, professor at the Institute for Health Policy Studies at the University of California, San Francisco. California is the only other state that has implemented mandatory nurse staffing ratios. This is a breaking news story that will be updated. In June, the U.S Attorney's office opened an investigation after Gov. Charlie Baker's son was accused of groping a female passenger's breast during a flight. Since then, however, no new information has been released -- and it is possible no new information will come to light. At a meeting Wednesday with editors and reporters from The Republican / MassLive, Gov. Baker was asked whether the results of the investigation should be made public. The governor said he supported the independent investigation from the beginning and said the allegations were serious. "But the decisions with respect to the public release on this stuff, those belong to the U.S. Attorney, and he doesn't work for me," he said. Gov. Baker said further questions should be directed at the U.S. Attorney. "Beyond that, it's a family (matter), and that's really who you should be directing your questions at," he said, referring to the U.S. Attorney. Andrew "AJ" Baker, 24, was accused of groping a 29-year-old passenger during a June 20 flight from Washington, D.C. to Boston. He said he was asleep during the flight, according to a police report leaked to the Boston Globe. The U.S. Attorney's office took over the investigation of the incident, and the governor said his son would cooperate fully. Christina Sterling, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Attorney's Office, said the Department of Justice does not confirm or deny investigations. The department, as its standard practice, also does not provide results of an investigation unless someone is charged. If AJ Baker is charged or if there is some kind of plea deal or settlement, that information would become public. At this point, there have not been any charges or settlement. However, if he is cleared, the information would only become public if he or the woman who made the complaint decide to publicize it. AJ Baker's attorney, Roberto Braceras, said he had no comment. Responding to a Boston Globe column calling for public openness about the investigation, Veronica Martinez, executive director of the Massachusetts Democratic Party, said in a statement that Gov. Baker should be transparent. "Did the investigation that he referenced three months ago happen? If so, what was the outcome? ... The public deserves full transparency," Martinez said. Baker's quote has been corrected. The HPV Vaccine on Trial: Seeking Justice for a Generation Betrayed paints a devastating picture of corporate and government conflicts of interest, negligence, and malfeasance in approving and promoting human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines, touted to prevent cervical and other cancers. Coming out on the heels of recent New York Times revelations about astounding financial conflicts of interest at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, this groundbreaking book highlights the lack of transparency, manipulated science, and abuse of state power to market this medical juggernaut, already raking in over $2.5 billion per year. Please join us in supporting Holland, Mack Rosenberg and Iorio on the debut of their book! This book reveals the tragedy of the HPV vaccine scandal. Lawsuits against HPV vaccine manufacturers and government health agencies are progressing around the world, including the US, India, Japan, Colombia, Spain, and France. The US government earns millions in royalties from Merck and GSK, the vaccine manufacturers, for its role in the invention of HPV vaccine technology. Although the US government proclaims HPV vaccines safe and effective, it has paid out millions of dollars to compensate families for death, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, ulcerative colitis, and other severe, debilitating conditions. With praise from some of the worlds leading scientists on aluminum, autoimmunity, and vaccines, this book fills a critical void, giving people information they need to make commonsense decisions about this vaccine. Written in plain language, The HPV Vaccine on Trial ultimately is about how industry, government, and medical authorities may be putting children in harms way. About the Authors Mary Holland, M.A., J.D., is on the faculty at NYU School of Law, directs its Graduate Lawyering Program, and lives in New York City. Kim Mack Rosenberg, J.D., is a lawyer in private practice and lives in New York City. Eileen Iorio has practiced in the financial and health fields and lives outside New York City. To request a review copy or to arrange an interview with the author, please contact: Nick Magliato / (212) 643-6816 x 225 / nmagliato@skyhorsepublishing.com The HPV Vaccine on Trial: Seeking Justice for a Generation Betrayed By Mary Holland, M.A., J.D.; Kim Mack Rosenberg, J.D.; Eileen Iorio Skyhorse Publishing paperback, also available as an ebook On Sale: October 2, 2018 / $19.99 ISBN: 9781510710801 The Global Malaria Diagnostics Market has been segmented on the basis of technology and end-user. However, the dearth of appropriate monitoring standards at the country levels particularly in developing markets hinders the growth of the market. The weak regulatory framework and lack of awareness across the emerging nations is also a prime concern for the manufacturers and healthcare providers. Primary and precise diagnosis of malaria is essential for both fast and effective disease management and observation. Superior quality malaria diagnosis systems are important in all settings as misdiagnosis or misinterpretation can result in substantial morbidity and mortality. World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a quick malaria diagnosis either by microscopy or malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT) in all patients with suspected malaria before treatment is being administered. Diagnostic testing improves the overall management of patients with febrile illnesses and may also help to decrease the emergence and spread of drug resistance by storing antimalarial for those who have the disease. The scope of malaria diagnostics is growing rapidly with technological advancements and a growing number of investments. Also, growth in a number of hospitals and healthcare facilities, and initiatives taken by the government are the major factors driving the growth of the malaria diagnostics market. The malaria diagnostics market is expected to grow at 4.6% CAGR during the forecast period Key Players Access Bio. Inc., Abbott Laboratories, Premier Medical Corporation Pvt. Ltd, Sysmex Partec GmbH, bioMerieux, Beckman Coulter Inc., Siemens Healthineers, Leica Microsystems GmbH, Nikon Corporation, Olympus Corporation and Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc. Get Exclusively Free Sample Copy of 100 Premium Pages Report @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/6432 Global Malaria Diagnostics Market, by Technique Rapid diagnostic tests Microscopy Molecular diagnostic tests Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) Global Malaria Diagnostics Market, by End-Users Hospitals Clinics Community healthcare Others Global Malaria Diagnostics Market, by Region Americas North America US Canada South America Europe Western Europe Germany France Italy Spain UK Rest of Western Europe Eastern Europe Asia-Pacific Japan China India Australia South Korea Rest of Asia-Pacific Middle East & Africa Middle East Africa & More Get Discount @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/check-discount/6432 About US: Market Research Future (MRFR), enable customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services. Contact Us: Market Research Future Office No. 528, Amanora Chambers Magarpatta Road, Hadapsar, Pune 411028 Maharashtra, India Phone: +1 646 845 9312 Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Trauma is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. To this day, it remains the number one cause of death for individuals under the age of 47. Studies show that blood loss, or the consequences thereof, accounts for nearly 40% of these trauma deaths and about half occur at the scene of the injury or en route to the hospital. Many of these deaths may have been prevented had the bleeding been controlled in a timely manner. As a matter of fact, uncontrolled bleeding is the number one preventable cause of death in trauma patients. As we all know, bleeding can result from a wide variety of causes, and it can happen anytime, anywhere. An injured person, who is bleeding excessively, could die within minutes if his or her bleeding is not stopped. Thus, it is crucial that each and every one of us be able to stop or control a bleeding wound before trained responders arrive. Even though a trauma first aid kit might be within reach when an accident occurs, many of us may find ourselves paralyzed and unable to act. This could simply be due to lack of knowledge when it comes to using these kits or uncertainty of what to do in these situations. To help overcome this problem and empower the untrained public to act when help is needed, North American Rescue, a prominent supplier of life-saving medical/rescue solutions out of South Carolina, has recently launched their Audio Bleeding Control Kit. This kit is unique, as it is the only one on the market to provide users with step-by-step aural instructions on how to use the kit appropriately and stop a bleeding episode. We at Medgadget were given the chance to check out this kit, and below is a brief review. Design The Audio Bleeding Kit is made of a white, glossy cardboard box (L 12.5 in. x W 9.75 in. x D 2.6 in.) and weighs around three pounds. This makes the kit conveniently portable and easy to store. Also, the glossy surface allows for easy cleaning, which is important as the control box is reusable and may end up living inside a car trunk. Inside the box you will find three color-coded packs: green for minor bleeding, yellow for moderate, and red for severe. Each pack contains all the necessary supplies to stop the bleeding type it is designated for. The contents of each pack are listed on the side of the box. Once you use any of these packs, a replacement pack can be purchased from the companys website. What sets this kit apart from traditional bleeding control kits is its audio guidance. Aural instructions are provided by the easy-to-use audio keypad that plays pre-recorded instructions designed to help the user utilize the kit effectively to control bleeding. Three replaceable AA batteries power this audio box and it comes ready to use. Usability Conclusion To use the kit, you open the box, switch it on, and select the desired language (English or Spanish). After identifying the severity of the bleeding at hand, you hit the corresponding play button. The kit will subsequently provide you step-by-step aural instructions in a clear and calm voice. You can control the volume level and turn it up so it stays audible in a noisy environment. In case you cannot keep up or miss an instruction, you can always stop or rewind to listen to an instruction again. Also, there are written instructions and illustrative drawings on the inside of the box, for those who prefer to read and/or have visual cues. The only drawback that we found was that the kit does not tell you how to recognize the severity of the bleeding and pinpoint a life-threatening injury. However, it is valuable to recognize that anytime an arm or leg is bleeding and you are not certain of the severity, the use of a tourniquet (from the severe bleeding pack) is the best course of action to ensure that the bleeding is stopped. We found North American Rescues Audio Bleeding Control Kit to be well designed and user-friendly. Fortunately, we did not need to use it in a real-life scenario, but if this kit proves to be effective in such circumstances, it could definitely be the difference between life and death for someone. The Audio Bleeding Control Kit retails for $190 on North American Rescues official website The Global Stem Cell Therapy Market is segmented on the basis of type, therapeutic application, cell source, and end-user. The stem cell therapy market, by type, is sub-segmented into Allogeneic and Autologous. On the basis of therapeutic application, the market is categorized into medicine, cardiovascular diseases, bone regeneration, neurodegenerative disorders, wound healing, treatment of eyes, hematopoietic disorders, metabolic disorders, cancer, immunodeficiency, and diabetes. Cell source is further sub-segmented into adipose tissue, bone marrow, neural, embryo/cord blood-derived, iPSCs. On the basis of end-user, the market is segmented into biotechnology companies, hospitals & research institutes, contract research organizations and stem cell banks. On the basis of region, the global stem cell therapy market is segmented into the Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa. The Americas is sub-segmented into North America and South America. The North American region is further segmented into the US and Canada. The European region is divided into two, namely, Western Europe and Eastern Europe. Western Europe is further classified into Germany, Italy, France, the U.K., Spain, and the rest of Western Europe. The Asia-Pacific region is sub-segmented into Japan, China, India, Australia, the Republic of Korea, and the rest of Asia-Pacific. The Middle Eastern and African region is sub-segmented into the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, and the rest of the Middle East and Africa. Get Exclusive Sample Copy @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/6422 Key players Osiris Therapeutics, Inc. (US), MEDIPOST Co., Ltd. (South Korea), Anterogen Co., Ltd. (South Korea), Pharmicell Co., Ltd. (South Korea), Holostem Terapie Avanzate S.r.l. (Italy), JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. (Japan), NuVasive, Inc. (US), RTI Surgical, Inc. (US) and AlloSource (US) Regional Analysis The Americas is the largest in the market owing to the increasing prevalence of heart diseases and growing healthcare expenditure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in November 2017, report every year 735,000 Americans have a heart problem. Such a high number of heart patients in the Americas drives the market growth in this region. Europe (UK, Belgium, France, and Netherlands) is the second largest global stem cell therapy market during the forecast period. The increasing occurrence of stroke, cancer, and osteoarthritis drives the market in this region. According to Anthony Nolan organization 2017, annual review 1.4million people register for donating stem cell in 2017. Also, more than 2,200 searches for a lifesaving stem cell transplant were made in 2017 by UK people. Such a high demand for Stem cell transplantation in this region promotes the market. Asia-Pacific was projected to be the fastest growing region for the global stem cell therapy market in 2017. The market is expected to witness growth owing to the rising prevalence of smoking in this region. According to the American Cancer Society, Inc 2018, report China 48.9%, India 16.2%, Japan 11.2% accounts of cancer cases in this region. Such a high cancer rate in this region favors the stem cell therapy market in this region. The Middle East and Africa accounts for the least share due to low per capita income and lack of availability of well-trained healthcare professionals. However, the rising oncology and technology both at the hospital level and in the community are expected to influence the market in a positive way. MAJOR TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1. Report Prologue Chapter 2. Market Introduction 2.1 Definition 2.2 Scope Of The Study 2.2.1 Research Objective 2.2.2 Assumptions 2.2.3 Limitations Chapter 3. Research Methodology 3.1 Introduction 3.2 Primary Research 3.3 Secondary Research 3.4 Market Size Estimation Chapter 4. Market Dynamics 4.1 Drivers 4.2 Restraints 4.3 Opportunities 4.4 Challenges 4.5 Macroeconomic Indicators 4.6 Technology Trends & Assessment Ask to Experts @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/6422 Chapter 5. Market Factor Analysis 5.1 Porters Five Forces Analysis 5.1.1 Bargaining Power Of Suppliers 5.1.2 Bargaining Power Of Buyers 5.1.3 Threat Of New Entrants 5.1.4 Threat Of Substitutes 5.1.5 Intensity Of Rivalry 5.2 Value Chain Analysis 5.3 Investment Feasibility Analysis 5.4 Pricing Analysis Chapter 6. Global Stem Cell Therapy Market, By Type 6.1 Introduction 6.2 Allogeneic 6.3 Autologous Chapter 7. Global Stem Cell Therapy Market, By Therapeutic Application 7.1 Introduction 7.2 Medicine 7.3 Cardiovascular Diseases 7.4 Bone Regeneration 7.5 Neurodegenerative Disorders TOC Continued.! About US: Market Research Future (MRFR), enable customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services. Contact Us: Market Research Future Office No. 528, Amanora Chambers Magarpatta Road, Hadapsar, Pune 411028 Maharashtra, India Phone: +1 646 845 9312 Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com by Gord Hotchkiss , Featured Contributor, October 2, 2018 There are an ever-increasing number of university courses about the ethics of data science and technology. Harvard, MIT and Stanford all offer them. And if you read through the typical syllabus, they seem to be focused on the big tech topics that create ethical questions: artificial intelligence, autonomous weapons, self-driving cars, job-stealing robots. I admit, all those things worry me. But ethical dilemmas can be found in almost anything we do. Google is riddled with ethical traps. Facebook is full of them. I believe there are both intended ethical questions and unintended ones. Drone strikes are an example of an intended ethical problem. The potential for evil is obvious to everyone. But the way Facebook is warping our inherent social drives may, in the long run, do more damage to us as a species. The same may be true for the way that Google is potentially reducing our ability to cognate at a higher level. We all use Google and Facebook every single day, as opposed to launching a drone strike. Its these unintended ethical questions we have to start paying attention to. advertisement advertisement But before we do that, we have to nail down a fundamental question. What is ethical to us? Lets start with the classic definition of ethics, according to dictionary.com: the body of moral principles or values governing or distinctive of a particular culture or group. The word ethics comes from the Greek word ethos: the fundamental character or spirit of a culture; the underlying sentiment that informs the beliefs, customs, or practices of a group or society; dominant assumptions of a people or period This means that ethics are a moving target. They ebb and flow with the collective culture of the group. But is there such a thing as being inherently ethical, a nailed-down foundation of right and wrong? And, if there is, what foundation do we build that upon? What is ground zero in ethics? Take, for example, the question of personal privacy. That would seem to be something rooted in ethics. Yet, as Ive written before, the whole concept of privacy is fairly recent. Its a moving target, and currently that movement is toward convenience and functionality and away from the sanctity of our personal information. A recent article on this question in the New York Times had a great quote about this very question: The medical profession has an ethic: First, do no harm. Silicon Valley has an ethos: Build it first and ask for forgiveness later. Part of this trap of unintended consequences comes with the practice of agile development. Technology is simply racing forward faster than our society can possibly absorb. We can absorb it on a personal day-to-day level, and we do. We are addicted to technology. One ethical dark side of technology that seems indisputable is the practice of building addictive time wasters. This is the foe that former Google engineer Tristan Harris is taking on with the nonprofit initiative Time Well Spent. But what are the other longer-term consequences of this adoption? What about technologys impact to society or our species, for that matter? We are beginning to scratch the surface of the problem, but I fear we havent properly scoped the size of what were dealing with. According to ABETs (the accreditation board for engineering and technology) criteria for accreditation, there are two students outcomes that deal, at least tangentially, with ethics. A student must have: An understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities. An ability to analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society. But in order to have both these abilities, you need an ethical baseline as a yardstick. You need to consider not only intended but also unintended consequences of technology. And the latter is almost impossible to foresee. This alone renders ABETs attempt to instill ethical guidelines for developers and designers hopelessly futile. What is the line were guiding to? The medical profession has the advantage of a pretty clear baseline when it comes to the question of harm. Its not difficult to tell relatively quickly if someone is better or worse health-wise. But with technology, its much less tangible, and much less immediate. The societal harm that comes from the adoption of a new technology might not be noticeable for a generation. By then, its too late. Pandoras box has been opened. Compounding this challenge in determining whats ethical is the very real possibility that our culture will have adapted to absorb the impact of the technology. What was once considered unethical will now have become acceptable. In the end, in looking for the ground zero of ethics, I keep coming back to Nassim Nicholas Talebs concept of anti-fragility. In an unpredictable environment, all you can predict is unpredictability. And when the unpredictable happens, will our use of technology make us both as a socially driven species and as self-appointed stewards of the planet more or less fragile? by Melynda Fuller , October 3, 2018 Since buying the Los Angeles Times earlier this year, new billionaire owner Patrick Soon-Shiong has been bulking up the papers staff. The move is a noted departure from other long-running news outlets that have been scooped up in recent years by similarly wealthy owners or investment firms, only to be stripped of resources and staff. Soon-Shiong seemingly wants to grow news coverage. To that effect, the L.A. Times announced its creating a Singapore bureau and reopening its Seoul bureau. In news that came via the Poynter Institute and reported in a tweet by the L.A. Times national/foreign editor Mitchell Landsberg, the Singapore office will be headed by Shashank Bangali and David Pierson, while Victoria Kim, who currently covers L.A.s Koreatown, will switch to covering Seoul instead. Prior to this news came word from The New York Post that Soon-Shiong was backing a McClatchy Company bid to take over Tronc, of which he owns 25%. According to the report, if the deal goes through, Soon-Shiong could become chairman of the newly combined Tronc/McClatchy. advertisement advertisement The Post speculates that part of Soon-Shiongs interest lies in two of McClatchys holdings: the Sacramento Bee and Modesto Bee, which would round out his other California publications. McClatchy, Tronc and a spokeswoman for Soon-Shiong declined to comment when approached by The Post. Just this past August, The Nieman Journalism Lab reported on the chaos surrounding a potential shakeup at Tronc, with one likely outcome being that investment firm The Donerail Group had pulled together funding to purchase the belabored company, before selling off its partsor publications. According to The Posts report, Soon-Shiong initially backed this development before falling out with Donerail Group head Will Wyatt. But with McClatchy and Tronc both struggling to stay afloat, and the further reports of the gains being made by Soon-Shiong at the L.A. Times, one has to wonder if the current publishing model has hit a brick wall, one where newspaper groups are no longer sustainable. Is the future of journalism in the hands of the few who have the personal resources to invest and sustain it? The threat of personal interest influencing a free press is reason enough to be skepticaland even a billionaire owner failed to save the recently shuttered Village Voicebut the wider picture being painted shows a new, or perhaps resurrected model, that relies less on centralizing operations and more on deepening those on the local level. by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, October 3, 2018 Four broadband industry groups sued Wednesday to block a California law that reinstates the Obama-era net neutrality rules. This case presents a classic example of unconstitutional state regulation, the American Cable Association, CTIA -- The Wireless Association, NCTA -- The Internet & Television Association and USTelecom -- The Broadband Association, write in a complaint filed Wednesday in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California. The associations are seeking to invalidate California's new law and prohibit the state from enforcing it. Their lawsuit comes two days after the Department of Justice filed a similar action. California's SB 822, signed late Sunday and slated to take effect in January, explicitly prohibits broadband providers from blocking or throttling traffic, charging higher fees for fast-lane service, and exempting their own video streams from consumers' data caps. The law largely mimics the Obama-era net neutrality regulations, which also prohibited carriers from blocking or throttling traffic and charging higher fees for prioritized delivery. advertisement advertisement The former federal regulations didn't explicitly ban companies from zero-rating -- or exempting material from subscribers' data caps. But those rules contained a "general conduct" standard that was interpreted as prohibiting some forms of zero-rating -- including AT&T's "Data Free TV," which allows wireless customers who purchase DirecTV to stream video without burning through their monthly data caps. Last December, the FCC voted to pass the Restoring Internet Freedom order, which repealed the Obama-era regulations. That order also contains a provision overriding any state laws. The broadband associations now argue that the FCC's decision to override state laws means that California's new measure is invalid. Californias attempts to revive ... a repealed federal regulatory regime are plainly preempted, the organizations write. SB-822 directly re-imposes the very same regulatory restrictions that the FCC repealed and expressly preempted states from enacting. The broadband carriers also argue that California's law is unconstitutional on the grounds that Internet access is inherently interstate, and therefore not subject to state laws. The Constitution empowers Congress to regulate interstate commerce; courts have interpreted that clause to mean that individual states usually can't pass regulations that effectively govern interstate commerce. As the FCC has long recognized, and as courts have confirmed, Internet access service is inherently interstate, and it is impossible or impracticable to separate Internet service into intrastate and interstate activities, the organizations write. California isn't the only state to attempt to reinstate net neutrality rules. The governors of Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Montana, Hawaii and Vermont recently signed orders requiring state agencies to contract only with providers that follow net neutrality principles. In Oregon, lawmakers passed a bill that prohibits state agencies from contracting with broadband providers that violate net neutrality principles. Washington state passed a more comprehensive law that prohibits broadband providers operating in the state from blocking or throttling traffic and from charging companies higher fees for prioritized delivery. In this Spotlight, we cover five unusual and rather unsavory treatments that were common in days gone by. Though each is horrid in its own way, they remind us of how far we have come. Share on Pinterest Medical knowledge has been hard won. Medical science has scurried somewhat eagerly along the corridors of human well-being for millennia. For as long as we have endured ailments, weve made attempts to rid ourselves of them. A powerful trio of hard graft, deep thinking, and serendipity has forged the course of medical history. However, along the way, there have also been horror, errors, strange decisions, and brutality. The road to modern medicine has not been entirely smooth, but it has not been boring, either. So, without further ado, let us take a painful wander down a blood-soaked memory lane. 1. The tobacco smoke enema In the late 1700s, tobacco started to arrive on English shores from the Americas. Along with it came the idea that, when used as an enema, tobacco smoke could cure a wide range of ailments. As the name suggests, a tobacco smoke enema involves literally blowing smoke up the patients rectum. The so-called pipe smoker London Medic would use the technique on those who fell into the river Thames and were near-drowned. Tobacco smoke enemas were thought to both warm the patient from within and stimulate respiration. The Royal Human Society left resuscitation kits including the equipment necessary to carry out a tobacco enema at certain points along the river. One particularly graphic description from 1746 is described in a paper published in The Lancet . A mans wife was pulled from the water apparently dead, it says. Amid much conflicting advice, a passing sailor proffered his pipe and instructed the husband to insert the stem into his wifes rectum, cover the bowl with a piece of perforated paper, and blow hard. Miraculously, the woman revived. Word of their benefits quickly spread, and people were soon using tobacco smoke enemas to treat everything from headaches and abdominal cramps to typhoid and cholera. As people were using the tobacco enema to treat increasingly serious diseases, the danger to the medic also increased. For instance, if a practitioner were to accidentally breathe in rather than blow out perhaps during a bout of tobacco-induced coughing cholera flagellates could pass into their lungs and inflict them, fatally. Thankfully, the introduction of bellows made the job slightly less hazardous. In the early 1800s, tobacco was shown to cause damage to the heart, and the tobacco enema fad thankfully began to decline. 2. Cutting teeth In the old days, infant mortality was sky high; and much of the time, the reason for death was wholly unknown. Share on Pinterest Teething used to be considered much more dangerous than it is today. Children frequently died at 6 months to 2 years of age, which, coincidentally, was around the time their first teeth were coming through. The medical minds of the day thought this might not be a simple coincidence, so they concluded that the process of teething was also the cause of infant death. In England and Wales in 1839, for instance, over 5,000 deaths were attributed to teething. Even by 1910, the figure was 1,600. So, how did physicians combat the evils of teething? Unfortunately for those children involved, they developed a wide array of interventions, including bleeding, blistering, and placing leeches on the gums. In some cases , they even burned the back of the babys head. During the 16th century, French surgeon Ambroise Pare (15101590) introduced gum lancing, and this became the preferred method. A paper published in The Lancet explains just how popular lancing babys gums became: John Hunter (172893) would lance a babys gums up to 10 times. J Marion Sims (181383) treated his first patient, a baby of 18 months old: as soon as I saw some swelling of the gums, I at once took out my lancet and cut the gums down to the teeth.' The author continues, The physician Marshall Hall (17901857) wrote that he would rather lance a childs gums 199 times unnecessarily than omit it once if necessary and he instructed his students to do it before, during, and after the teeth appeared, sometimes twice a day. It is as yet unknown how many children died from infections that likely developed following such procedures. Lancing petered out, but it did not disappear for a surprisingly long time. Even as late as 1938, a dentistry textbook offered instructions for gum lancing a teething child. If nothing else, this chapter is a reminder of how barbaric humans can be without the slightest intention of being so. 3. Improve your smile the cheap way Today, urine has few everyday uses which is a shame considering its wide availability. In Roman times, however, it was a different story. Urine was such a popular commodity that people collected it from public urinals; there was even a tax to pay for those who profited from the sale of this golden liquid. Many of urines uses were nonmedical, such as the production of gunpowder or to soften leather. One less savory use for urine, however, was as a tooth whitener. The ammonia allegedly helps clear teeth of their stains. I imagine it would do nothing to reduce morning breath, though. Apparently, leaving the urine to fester for some time gives the urea time to convert into ammonia, which is an antibacterial and bleaching agent used in household cleaning products. It was not only the Ancient Romans who used this teeth-whitening method; throughout history, it has been used by a number of people and, even today, some are tempted to give it a try. Note: Medical News Today do not recommend this as an intervention. 4. Stone Age brain surgery In short, trepanning is the process of boring a hole into somebodys skull. It sounds as brutal as it is. Share on Pinterest Hieronymus Boschs depiction of trepanning in his painting The Stone Cutting. Image credit: Hieronymus Bosch via Wikimedia Commons. Scientists have unearthed skulls bearing tell-tale holes from the Neolithic period onward. Many consider trepanning the earliest surgery for which there is archeological evidence. Trepanning was popular, too: an incredible 510 percent of all Neolithic skulls that scientists have so far dug up bear all the unmistakable marks of trepanning. From ancient remains, its not always possible to tell whether the surgery was carried out before or after death but some patients certainly were alive. Against all odds, some ancient patients managed to survive the process. We know this because the skulls show evidence that healing had occurred. Though mostly carried out on adult males, scientists have also found trepanning holes in the skulls of women and children. During Neolithic times, the practice was perhaps surprisingly widespread. From a period when long-distance travel and the exchange of ideas was limited, experts have unearthed skulls bearing the marks of trepanning in Europe, Siberia, China, and the Americas; it was all the rage. Trepanning did not die out with the Stone Age; it carried on through the classical period, and even as far as the Renaissance. Today, similar surgical procedures still exist; but, as you might imagine, they involve a little more finesse and a lot more anesthetic. For instance, specialists use craniotomies to treat some hematomas (wherein blood builds up between the skull, the brain, and the membranes in-between). Both psoriasis and ringworm cause red, scaly patches on the skin. Knowing the symptoms of each condition can help people to identify their rash. Psoriasis and ringworm are very different conditions. Ringworm is a fungal infection that will go away with treatment. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that comes and goes throughout a persons life. When someone develops a rash, they may find it difficult to work out what caused it. A doctor can examine or order tests to determine which condition they have. In this article, we look at the differences between ringworm and psoriasis and compare them with other conditions that can cause similar rashes. Psoriasis vs. ringworm Share on Pinterest Ringworm, pictured here, is often circular. The shape of psoriasis may be less regular. Both psoriasis and ringworm can cause red, scaly patches to appear anywhere on the body. Both can also lead to intense itching. A person who has never had ringworm before or is having their first psoriasis flare may not know which condition they have. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition. It causes red, scaly plaques that may have a gray hue or peel. During a psoriasis flare, a person develops scaly, red, irritated patches of skin because of the skins rapid shedding. Psoriasis is not contagious. Researchers are not sure what causes psoriasis, but it tends to run in families. Certain factors, such as stress or alcohol, can trigger a flare. Ringworm causes a red, circular, and often scaly rash. Ringworm is highly contagious, spreading quickly through contact with another person who has the condition. A fungal infection causes ringworm. Despite its name, it has nothing to do with worms. Both psoriasis and ringworm can develop in similar places. One type of psoriasis called inverse psoriasis can affect the area around the groin. When ringworm affects the groin area, it is called jock itch. Psoriasis often affects the scalp. When ringworm affects the scalp, it is called tinea capitis. Some important distinctions between psoriasis and ringworm include: The shape of the rash Ringworm is often circular. It typically begins as a rash with a clearly defined border that looks like there is a worm under the skin. The center of the rash appears sunken and may be gray or scaly. While psoriasis rashes can also be round, the shape is less regular and does not resemble a worm. Rash risk factors People develop ringworm after coming into contact with someone else who has the infection. Children, anyone in close contact with children, and people who come into contact with others, such as at the gym, are more likely to get the infection. Psoriasis is not contagious and can affect anyone. Rash growth Psoriasis plaques may spread, appearing on one area of the body and then another. Ringworm grows larger over several days and can spread to other areas of the body. Changes in the rash Unlike ringworm, psoriasis plaques can change in color and texture. They are often red at first and then may become grey and scaly, or crack and bleed. How the rash feels Both ringworm and psoriasis rashes are itchy, but the ringworm itch is often more intense. Psoriasis can be painful and may tingle or burn. Some people develop other symptoms with psoriasis, such as a fever or muscle aches. Psoriasis vs. other skin conditions Share on Pinterest Acne begins under the skin but psoriasis is immediately visible on the skin. Psoriasis can resemble some other skin conditions. A skin injury can trigger a psoriasis flare. This means that a rash that begins as something else can become psoriasis. For instance, a person who has eczema and psoriasis may find that eczema leads to psoriasis flares. Some other conditions that may look like psoriasis include: Acne Acne usually causes well-defined round sores. The bumps can be very small or quite large and may be painful. Acne lesions usually come to a head and then shrink over several days. Psoriasis does not come to a head. While acne begins under the skin, psoriasis is immediately visible on top of the skin. Eczema Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, scaly patches to form on the skin. The patches sometimes appear after a change in the weather or exposure to something that irritates the skin. Eczema can be itchy and scaly but is not typically gray or silvery like psoriasis. Skin infection Sometimes, an infected skin injury can look like psoriasis. Signs of an infection include: intense pain yellow pus red streaks coming from the injury swelling a fever Heat rash Sweating or being exposed to high temperatures can lead to a heat rash. For example, a person might develop a heat rash on their legs after sitting in front of a space heater. The rash is not usually painful and goes away on its own in a few days. In some cases, a person might need to use corticosteroid cream to speed healing. Allergic reaction An allergic reaction can trigger an outbreak of hives. Allergic reactions typically appear suddenly, either because of something that came into contact with the skin or a food allergen. Allergic reactions can cause other symptoms, too, such as difficulty breathing or feeling sick. Dry skin Although psoriasis plaques can look very dry and scaly, dry skin does not cause them. Dry skin can crack open and bleed, and may peel. Unlike psoriasis, dry skin does not change color or shape. Skin blisters Some types of psoriasis, including guttate psoriasis, look like tiny blisters. A blister due to skin irritation, such as from a shoe rubbing the foot, typically develops over several days, then bursts and goes away. If the blisters do not go away or are spreading, it could be psoriasis or another skin disorder. When to see a doctor Share on Pinterest A person should consult a doctor if their rash is getting worse. Both psoriasis and ringworm need medical treatment. People should see a doctor if they suspect they have either condition. People should also see their doctor if: The rash is getting worse, and treatment for psoriasis or ringworm does not help. Signs of a skin rash or infection develop in someone with a chronic illness or weakened immune system. A fever, chills, or muscle aches develop along with a skin rash. A skin rash covers much of the body. There are signs of an allergic reaction, such as a worsening rash, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or feeling sick. A rash, skin irritation, or fever develops following a skin injury. Treating psoriasis and ringworm Doctors can treat ringworm using antifungal creams or oral antifungal medication. With the correct treatment, ringworm usually goes away within 2 to 4 weeks. People with low immunity or debilitating conditions may develop severe infections due to ringworm. To prevent the infection from getting worse, they may need more aggressive treatment. Psoriasis is a chronic condition. Flares come and go over time. There is no cure, though people can manage their symptoms using creams, medications, or light therapy. They can also reduce the risk of flares by avoiding triggers, such as stress or drinking alcohol. Genes that control one aspect of our health can also influence others. Now, a recent study has revealed such a link between mutations of three genes that control cholesterol and a lower risk of certain cardiovascular conditions and type 2 diabetes. Share on Pinterest Scientists find a link between gene mutations, cholesterol, heart health, and diabetes. Researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine as well as the Veteran Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, both in California, have led an investigation that linked genetic information on 300,000 veterans to their electronic health records. It focused on three gene variants, or mutations, that change the way their associated genes behave. Studies of gene mutations usually uncover how they damage health or give rise to disease, but in this study, the gene variants are all linked to positive effects. Veterans who carried any one of these three gene variants not only had better levels of blood cholesterol, but also depending on the gene a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, or abdominal aortic aneurysm. The investigators suggest that their findings which now feature in the journal Nature Genetics offer valuable information for developing drugs to treat the conditions associated with the three genes. The genes are: ANGPTL4 for type 2 diabetes, PCSK9 for abdominal aortic aneurysm, and PDE3B for coronary heart disease. The power of numbers For a genetic study such as the recent one to give significant results, it must draw on the power of numbers. The Million Veteran Program (MVP), which was set up in 2011, offers such an opportunity. Its aim is to explore the relationship between genetic variation and health in military veterans in the United States. The MVP gave the researchers access to genetic information on 297,626 including 57,332 black and 24,743 Hispanic veterans for whom there were also electronic health records containing measures of their cholesterol. By bringing the MVP data together with data from the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium, the team was able to identify 188 genetic markers of cholesterol that were already known about and 118 that were not. Then, by applying an approach called a phenome-wide association study, the team picked out the cholesterol-associated gene variants that were also associated with other health factors or conditions in the MVP data. The result was that variants in ANGPTL4, PCSK9, and PDE3B appeared not only to favor beneficial cholesterol levels but were also linked to a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, abdominal aortic aneurysm, and coronary heart disease, respectively. These associations were previously unknown; the PCSK9 variant was already known to lower risk of heart disease, but this was the first study to tie it to a lower risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to lung tissue damage, which can result in a condition called pulmonary fibrosis. With this condition, lung tissue becomes thick and scarred, making it harder to absorb oxygen into the bloodstream. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder that causes chronic pain in the joints. RA can also affect other organs, such as the lungs, causing severe breathing problems. The risk of developing pulmonary fibrosis is higher in people who: are frequent smokers often come into contact with environmental pollution have a family history of pulmonary fibrosis regularly use anti-inflammatory medication Doctors still do not fully understand the link between RA and pulmonary fibrosis, but evidence shows that as many as 40 percent of people with RA have pulmonary fibrosis. Symptoms Share on Pinterest Rheumatoid arthritis can affect the lungs. Potential symptoms include coughing and shortness of breath. Symptoms of RA vary in type and severity and may come and go. When the disease is active, it is known as a flare. During a flare, symptoms can vary in duration and intensity. Common symptoms of RA include: morning stiffness that lasts for 30 minutes or longer tenderness, pain, or swelling in the joints, lasting 6 weeks or longer pain in joints on both sides of the body pain in smaller joints, such as the hands, wrists, and feet When RA leads to lung problems, people may experience the following symptoms: shortness of breath dry persistent cough frequent feeling of tiredness sudden, unexplained weight loss Diagnosing RA and pulmonary fibrosis Typically, pulmonary fibrosis and related lung problems develop in people who have lived with RA for several years. This means that doctors usually diagnose RA before pulmonary fibrosis. However, a study in the journal European Respiratory Review reported that 10 to 20 percent of people experienced symptoms of respiratory problems before they developed typical RA symptoms. Diagnosing RA Share on Pinterest A doctor may recommend a blood test to diagnose RA. Doctors diagnose RA by asking about a persons medical history, doing a complete physical examination, and ordering a series of imaging and blood tests. These tests check for: swollen joints the degree of pain a person is experiencing the presence of antibodies in the blood called rheumatoid factor bone and joint abnormalities Common tests to diagnose RA include: Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) : A test measuring how quickly red blood cells settle to the bottom of a test tube. The ESR test indicates the presence of an inflammatory condition, such as RA, but cannot diagnose RA on its own. : A test measuring how quickly red blood cells settle to the bottom of a test tube. The ESR test indicates the presence of an inflammatory condition, such as RA, but cannot diagnose RA on its own. C-reactive protein (CRP) test : A test that indicates the level of C-reactive protein in the blood. Higher levels of CRP in the blood may indicate inflammation or infection in the body. : A test that indicates the level of C-reactive protein in the blood. Higher levels of CRP in the blood may indicate inflammation or infection in the body. Complete blood test: A test to check for anemia. A 2017 study in the World Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Research reported that 60 percent of Sudanese people with RA in the study also had anemia. Diagnosing pulmonary fibrosis A doctor will request one or more of the following tests to help diagnose pulmonary fibrosis. pulse oximetry pulmonary function test imaging tests, such as chest X-rays or computed tomography scans lung tissue biopsy arterial blood gas test These tests show whether there is inflammation or damage in the lung tissue. They also measure the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and air capacity in the lungs. When to see a doctor Share on Pinterest A doctor should assess lung problems that last for over a month. According to the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, people should see their doctor if they experience lung problems for more than 1 month. They should also see a doctor if they experience sudden but regular severe breathlessness while doing everyday tasks. The doctor will assess the extent of the problem and may make a referral to a specialist called a rheumatologist if necessary. Treatment for RA and pulmonary fibrosis Both RA and pulmonary fibrosis have no cure, so treatment goals aim to manage the symptoms and reduce the progression of the disease. Medications and treatments to control RA-linked pulmonary fibrosis may include: anti-inflammatory medicines corticosteroids and immunosuppressants oxygen therapy to provide relief and enable easier breathing pulmonary rehabilitation therapy lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and increasing physical activity to strengthen the lungs The fashion industry in most cases does not really cater to the needs of the plus-sized individual. Finding plus sized clothes, is, therefore, a very tough venture. Most times even when the clothes are available, they appear to be frumpy apparels, hastily made and not designed to look fashionable in the least. However, thanks to the advent of online retailing, many retailers are now attempting to make fashionable clothes to fit the plus sized individuals. We have made a list of online shopping clothes where plus-sized people, can find suitable clothes which flatter their figure, are trendy and are made of quality fabric. Addition Elle This online fashion retailer offers chic and stylish plus size women's clothing, as well as plus size lingerie, jeans and dresses. They are popularly known to collaborate with plus-sized bloggers in order to design the best fits for plus sized women. They also hold a lot of sales and their products are usually sold at affordable prices. Sizes: The sizes of their clothes usually range from X to 4X and 12 to 24. Price: Clothes could be sold as low as $10 and as high as $250. Shipping: They offer free shipping for orders over $120 and returns are also free. Hudsons Bay The bay is another online shop that stocks luxury brands such as Carmakoma Plus, Junarose, Nic + Zoe and Jessica Simpson for the plus sized. They have a lot of regular sales and days they call Bay days. They sell everything from casual wears to work clothes. Sizes: They go as high as size 24 Price: You can find clothing from $50 to $500 Shipping: Orders over $99 qualify for free shipping while orders under $99 cost $8 for standard shipping. Old Navy Old Navy offers basic clothing items for the plus sized and is also one of the few online stores that have a section for plus sized individuals. They do a lot of super sales where you can get articles for as low as 50% of the original price. Sizes: Sizes go as high up as size 30. Price: You can find items of clothing for as low as $5 to and they go as high up as $100 Shipping: Orders on $50 or more qualify for free standard shipping, while express shipping costs $8 to $22. ASOS ASOS have a plus size section called ASOS curve and plus size. They carry affordable clothing for plus sized women, from inners to outerwear and all things in-between. They also sell shoes and accessories and offer free shipping and returns for high budget orders. They also have a men's plus-sized line. Sizes: The sizes go as high up as 28. Price: From as low as $5 to as high as $255. Shipping: $30 standard shipping. City Chic City chic sells everything from basics, to work wear, lingerie and outerwear for plus sized individuals. Sizes: Sizes range from 14 to 24 Price: Prices can be as low as $30 to as high as $200 Shipping: $5 standard shipping Xiaomi has become a fairly popular brand in the country, thanks to its budget and midrange Redmi phones. The company has managed to grab a huge chunk of the smartphone market in India within a very short period, thanks to aggressive pricing. The Chinese giant now wants to expand its portfolio in the country and has launched the Amazfit brand for wearables. The Amazfit lineup of devices actually comes from Huami, a company wherein Xiaomi is a major stakeholder. The brand has been successful in selling the Mi Band like hotcakes, and now, it intends to do the same for more advanced smart bands as well as smartwatches. When we consider the Indian market, smartwatches are still a niche and are pretty expensive. You can buy a midrange or even a flagship phone for the price of an Apple Watch, while the Samsung Gear S3 is fairly expensive as well. Closest to the Amazfit Pace is Fitbit's Versa. The pace is built keeping an all-rounder in mind, a fitness gadget as well as a trendy utility. Let's see whether the watch is actually able to take on Fitbit, Samsung, and Apple, at pretty much half the rate! 1. Display & Build: MensXP When you first look at the Pace, there's nothing distinctive about it. The watch has a circular display, rubberised watch-band, a colourful palette, and polycarbonate backing. The display bezel is made of ceramic and instantly reminds us of the Moto 360 Sport. The bezel is too shiny, making it look thick and very conventional. A small physical button is located on the top-right side, and it's genuinely too small. The button is slightly towards the underside and very subtle, but the same design makes it difficult to press instantly. And the button plays a major role in regular usage because the screen wakes up with a press and also acts as the home screen button when you've entered an app. The watch does have a tap-to-wake feature, but more on that later. At the back, you'll see the heart rate scanner along with four metallic points that fit into the charging base that is provided along with the watch. While the watch is reasonably thick, the slightly curved belly does a good job in hiding the actual thickness. One thing I absolutely love about the watch is that it's lightweight, coming in at just 55 grams. The watch also utilises and accepts any standard 22mm watch strap. The in-box strap is made of soft rubbery silicone, the one we have is black to match the watch front, with a red underside. The body has an IP67 rating and can be used in the shower and freshwater swimming as well. MensXP Coming to the display, it has a 1.34-inch LCD display that is always on and has a transflective coating. In a nutshell, the display isn't vibrant and massively lacks contrast. When you increase the brightness, it looks completely washed out and colours are dull. The auto-brightness function also is under programmed, hence, I manually chose to keep the brightness at level 4 all the time. The watch has gesture support to turn on the backlight of the display, but it's very spotty. More than half of the time it failed to detect and forced me to use the physical button. Also, you need to press the button every time you want to activate the display, this is really annoying when a notification pops up and you naturally try to open or close it and the display remains unresponsive, and you have to go back to the button! In direct sunlight, you'll actually have to focus on the display for a few seconds, maybe even bring it closer to you. The washed out panel combined with the powerful sunlight makes it a pain to view the display easily. 2. Tracking & Performance: MensXP The Pace has a 1.2GHz processor alongside 512MB of memory. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth 4.0, features WiFi for firmware updates and its own GPS for tracking your workouts. The addition of a standalone GPS unit means you can go out on a workout without your phone, all the data is stored locally for the time being and synced when your phone is nearby. This is an excellent addition for fitness freaks or runners and a feature that isn't available on the much expensive Fitbit Versa. In terms of activity tracking, the watch is definitely on par with the Fitbit Versa. The work out modes are very handy and the GPS is usually accurate in location sensing. The display also shows all of the desired data points, such as your pace, distance, heart rate and time. The heart rate scanner slightly feels off, by 5-7 beats, but does an excellent job when done with a stable hand. Charging the watch is easy, you just need to snap the base on the back, connect the micro-USB wire in the base and you're good to go. I prefer the lighter and smaller base of the Pace over the Fitbit's larger boxy base portability wise. 3. UI & Notifications: MensXP The operating system is very smooth but often becomes unresponsive. I believe the poor display panel is to be blamed for the stutters because if you carefully navigate, the UI is buttery smooth. You can swipe left from the watch face to access other basic apps such as the weather and stopwatch, get an overview of your activity so far, access sleep data, and use the remote music controls. A right swipe will bring you multiple work-out modes while a swipe up brings the notifications. The built-in apps include Weather Forecast, Daily Overview, Heart Rate, Music, Alarm, Compass, Stopwatch, Sleep, and Timer. The various work out modes includes Outdoor/Indoor Run, Trail Run, Walk, Outdoor/Indoor Bike, Elliptical, and more. It also has a bunch of pre-installed watch faces that are designed keeping maximum information output in mind. The watch face can also be customised by uploading photos and you can receive notifications for incoming calls and messages. Keep in mind, even though it is a smartwatch, you can only view notifications. No responding back to messages via canned answers or a mic. The watch quickly pairs up with an Android or iOS device and data syncing is quick. All apps that generate notifications on your phone are supported. The vibration generated is powerful and can be changed via the settings menu. 4. Battery Life: MensXP If you use the heart rate scanner, full-time on notifications, and hourly activities every day, the watch will easily last you at least 4-4.5 days. This is fairly good because the watch has a full-time GPS unit and an LCD display, two most power intensive modules. If you don't use it for intensive activity, the battery will last you at least five days. The good thing is, it also shows you the estimated time left for the battery to fully drain out. This enables you to plan your charging time, something I definitely miss on the Fitbit Versa. Charging the Amazfit Pace is via a proprietary cradle that clips onto the back of the device. From 5 percent to 100 percent takes about two and a half hours, which is slightly on the higher side, but then the output is also high, so no complains there. 5. Conclusion: MensXP The Pace is an entry level smartwatch, that barely qualifies to be a smart "watch" and not a "band". The designers have tried to put in as much functionality as possible but had to cut corners in every department. It has an always-on display, but it's underwhelming when the backlight is switched on. The OS is smooth, but too gesture-based and the touchscreen is laggy. The design is subtle but looks too conventional. It has a physical button, but it is located in a very inaccessible location. If you're out there for a smartwatch that has almost everything, at a basic level, go for the Pace. If you're looking for a purely fitness based smartwatch, we'd recommend the Fitbit Versa. And, if you want a full-fledged smartwatch, go for the Samsung Gear, or the Apple Watch. We can't really complain about the Pace because it is considerably cheaper than the competition, but comes with its own set of drawbacks that are too major to be easily ignored. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Markos Bolaris met today His Beatitude the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Theophilos III, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Discussions covered a whole range of issues that concern the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. During their cordial conversation, the Deputy Minister expressed the Greek States support both to the Patriarchate and his Beatitude personally. They examined the potential to capitalize on the Patriarchates prospects, the continuation and strengthening of the Greeces support for it, as well as the current challenges the Patriarchate faces in the region. His Beatitude was accompanied by the Elder Chief Secretary, the Eminent Archbishop of Constantine, Aristarchus, the father deacon Markos, and the Exarch of the Holy Sepulchre in Greece, the Very Reverend Archimandrite, Damianos. Two regions, France and Marinduque (A province in the Philippines) have banned Neonicotinoids, a neurotoxic and water soluble insecticide that are generally used for the treatment of crops. This pesticide infiltrates plants and permeates their tissues, while its components pollute the surrounding environment, killing both pests and vital pollinators alike. This has led to a call by international scientists for more countries to place a ban on the pesticide. The international Task Force for Systemic Pesticides met in Paris this week to discuss evidence that neonicotinoids pose an unacceptable risk to bees, butterflies and other biodiversity. We need all governments, from the smallest to the most powerful, to restrict the use of neonicotinoids, which are used in agriculture worldwide, Jean Marc Bonmatin, an environmental chemist with the French government and expert on neonicotinoids, said in a Thursday news release quoted in the National Observer. The insecticide has been proved to cause significant harm to such creatures as bees, butterflies and birds. Banning neonicotinoids by law was a democratic success, said Delphine Batho, an member of the French National Assembly for the District of Deux-Sevres and Frances former minister of ecology, sustainable development and energy, in a statement from the Task Force for Systemic Pesticides. While three neonics will similarly be outlawed in all 28 countries of the European Union, the French law goes further because it targets all five neonicotinoid pesticides that were used in France. The French Parliament has also voted recently to expand the ban to restrict all new pesticides that have the same mode of action as neonicotinoids. Marinduque happens to be a province where people raise butterfly for a living. Romulo Bacorro, vice governor of the province said in a statement this week In Marinduque the butterfly center of the world raising butterflies is a major source of livelihood for local communities. We may be small, but were joining France in banning neonics to protect biodiversity, food security and the livelihoods of our people. The foregoing has led to calls requiring Canada to do more in the protection of its useful pollinators. There is currently a case against Canadas Pest Management Regulatory Agency accusing the agency of not studying insecticides properly before approving them for commercial use. The case is due to be heard this fall. We have inherited an extremely biodiverse world from our parents and I think it is incumbent on us to pass on that same world undiminished to our children, said Jeremy Kerr, an ecologist at the University of Ottawa. From my point of view, there's an important ethical obligation here. But there are also practical considerations that we really must not ignore. And among them is the fact that one out of three bites of food that we take relies directly or indirectly on the action of pollinators, so any sort of impact on pollinators is ultimately also an impact on ourselves, and we need to be taking that kind of effect very seriously. He told National Observer. Los Alamos, New Mexico is home to some of the country's most scientifically literate families, and one thing they all have in common is that they avoid vaccines like the plaque. Meanwhile, the less informed vaxxers are getting angry at the fact that the rest of the country isnt complying with the herd-mentally that the morally corrupt CDC and the mass media has fed them. Most of the families in THE New Mexico community of Los Alamos are employed at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and the Los Alamos Labs, where most vaccine research is carried out. They all prefer to opt out of giving their kids vaccines. But didnt the media that the science on vaccines has been settled in America? Did the CDC not come out to say diseases like Influenza, Smallpox, and Shingles can be avoided by taking vaccines? Thats right their prevention method was to inject yourself with mercury, aluminium, and African Green Monkey kidney cells. And if you've thought that mercury has been removed from all childhood vaccines, I'm here to tell you that you've been lied to. That statement was nothing more than a bold-faced lie. The CDC is highly recommending mercury-laced flu shots to pregnant women and infants six months young. Most people arent aware, but the Rotavirus vaccine, Rotateq, contains two strains of a deadly swine virus known as circovirus. If you didn't know before, well now you do, and if you were aware, then you should be extremely concerned. These are some of the facts that make scientists who study these vaccines don't want their brilliant kids to get vaccine injections. They don't want their kids being infected with neurotoxins. Perhaps the scientists in Los Alamos know deep down that the flu vaccine is the primary cause of most of the horrific side effects, and that the vaccine industry's hidden masters' has settled several cases resulting from the damage of any other immunisation created on American soil. The media doesn't want you to know that the flu shot is highly dangerous and completely experimental. Only certain scientifically literate citizens of the country know of this strange fact. The only difference is that the government pays a couple of scientists to concoct lies about vaccines and its research. They also pay these scientists large sums to spread their propaganda. This is why many science geniuses are refusing vaccines for their kids. Numerous scientists in Santa Fe do not want their kids to get these vaccines. These statistics are some of the highest in the US. Although the media may say the science of vaccine is settled, the truth is that it isn't. They won't tell you that the so-called "efficacy and safety" of vaccines are under serious scrutiny especially now that the vaccine industry has had to pay out over $3 billion in damages to injured families. Another reason for this intense scrutiny is to find out why vaccines generally spread diseases more often that prevent it. SEBEWAING Fall fun and bargains can be found in Sebewaing this week during the annual Moonlight Madness and River Fire celebration. There will be a wide range of events Thursday in the historic river district downtown and along M-25, according to organizers of the event. Along M-25, Lukes Market will sell Rotary Club brats and hot dogs 5 to 8 p.m., and free bean soup will be available while the supply lasts. Lukes will offer grocery specials, and Ace Hardware will have sales, free popcorn, and a pumpkin decorating contest. Pumpkins need to be picked up before hand. The most action will be in the downtown area with new extended times of 3 to 11 p.m., for some events. The Sons of Life Missionary Church will host a free climbing wall and inflatables, and free ice cream. Moore Shoreline will host a new vehicle show on Center Street. The Sebewaing Township Library will have apple cider and donuts, a book and movie sale, and a gift-bag drawing. Three Point Chiropractic and New Life Naturopathy will host and open house along with cider and donuts and office tours. Sparkle Dance Studio will host a bake sale to fight breast cancer. At Muellwerwise Park the Rotary Club will sell brats and hot dogs along with free bean soup while it lasts, and there will be a barbecue also. The Sebewaing Historical Society will have the Charles W. Liken House Museum open for tours and offer free apple cider and coffee, along with selling baked goods and German potato salad. As part of the river fire event, there will be bonfires on the river at dusk, and live music 6 to 11 p.m. At the old fire hall on Union Street there will be beer and wine sales along with a silent auction with proceeds to go towards downtown development efforts. There will be a wide variety of vendors set up in the Sebewaing Township Hall. The event is sponsored by the Sebewaing Chamber of Commerce. UPPER THUMB Voters have until Tuesday to register to in the Nov. 6 general election. There are three state ballot proposals and numerous local, state and congressional contested elections. State Rep. Edward J. Canfield, a Sebewaing Republican, will host an informational session at 5:30 p.m. Monday at Laker High School to explain the ballot initiative process and this year s ballot proposals. Ballot initiatives include legalizing recreational marijuana in Michigan; putting the power of redistricting into the hands of an independent citizens commission; and a state constitutional amendment instituting a voting rights initiative. How to Register Here are voter registration guidelines, according to the Michigan Secretary of States Office: To register to vote, you must be all of the following: A U.S. citizen. At least 18 years old by Election Day. A resident of Michigan. A resident of the city or township where you are applying to register to vote. If you want to check to see if you are registered, visit www.Michigan.gov/vote. There you will find information about registering to vote and voting, voting equipment, polling place locations, state and local ballots, the candidates, campaign finance and more. Your local clerk can help with questions about your voter registration, polling place location and working at the polls. You may obtain the application at one of the following: Your local Secretary of State branch office Your local county, city or township clerk's office Offices of several state agencies, like the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Community Health, and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Military recruitment centers Voter registration drives Online at www.Michigan.gov/sos If you hand deliver your application, the staff person helping you will take your form and you don't need to do anything else. If you have never registered to vote in Michigan and choose to mail in your application, you will need to meet an identification requirement. This means you must: Enter your driver's license number or personal identification card number where requested on the form. Or send a copy of one of the following forms of identification with your application: A photocopy of your driver's license or personal ID card, or A photocopy of a paycheck stub, utility bill, bank document or government document that lists both your name and your address. Here are Novembers contested races in Huron County: Governor: Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette, a Republican, and Democrat Gretchen Whitmer, a former Democratic member of the Michigan Senate, will face off for governor. Congress: Republican John James will challenge U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Democrat. Kimberley Bizon, a Lexington Democrat, will challenge U.S. Rep Paul Mitchell, a Dryden Republican, for the District 10 U.S. House of Representatives seat. State Legislature: Dan Lauwers, a Republican from Brockway Township, will face Democrat Debbie Bourgois of Fort Gratiot for the 25th District State Senate seat. Republican Phil Green of Millington faces Democrat William Shoop of Vassar for the 84th District State Representative. County and Local: Huron County Commissioner Steve Vaughan, a Republican, will defend his seat against Democrat Rich Swartzendruber in the District 4 race. Three candidates will vie for two seats on the Harbor Beach City Council. They are: Incumbent Matthew Woodke and newcomers Kevin F. Guitar and Dale Schultz. Robert J. Swartz will challenge Harbor Beach Mayor Gary S. Booms. Five people will vie for one seat as Village of Elkton trustee. They are: Incumbent Bridgette McCarty and newcomers Daniel T. Armbruster, David Fisher, Jaime C. Murphy and Gail Schember. Four people will compete for three seats as Village of Kinde trustee. Newcomer Kenneth W. Church faces incumbents Carl T. Dickinson, Harvey L. Hagle and Scott. W. McIntyre. Four people are running for three seats as Village of Pigeon trustee. They are: Incumbents Matthew R. Esch and Kent Shetler, who face challengers Allen Collison and Shelly Gunden. Four people will compete for three seats as Village of Port Hope trustee. They are: Newcomer John W. Blum and incumbents Christopher Gust, Roy Reinke and Ronald Steinhorst. Competing for the open seat of Village of Sebewaing president are Paul Engelhardt and Julie Epperson. For Village of Sebewaing Trustee, seven people will compete for three four-year seats. They are: incumbents Brandy Gunsell and Larry Heider; and challengers Les Alexander, Melinda Driscoll, Dennis F. Kundinger Sr., Paul Schnitker and Nathan O. Schulz. School Board: Two seats are available on the Bad Axe School Board. Newcomer Autumn Howard will challenge board members Michael H. Anderson and Denise McVey. Four seats are available on the Laker School Board. Newcomer Paul Scaddan will challenge: R. Keith Hatfield, Heath Krohn, Mary F. Tait and Tyler Williams. Four people will compete for two seats in the Unionville Sebewaing Area School District: Incumbent Michelle Currey faces newcomers Deborah L. Beers, Leanne Lindenberg and Elijah Meek. See a future edition of the Huron Daily Tribune for profiles of these candidates. The big banana-shaped sofa on the set of "Fox & Friends" has almost always been safe space for President Donald Trump. It's where Steve Doocy once told Trump he was glad they were friends, and where Brian Kilmeade remarked that Trump looked very "big" on TV. It's the couch where Ainsley Earhardt sat one morning last year and reminded people that Trump "is the boss" - after he fired his FBI director and upset many people who were not co-hosts of Trump's favorite morning show. But on Wednesday, assuming Trump was watching "Fox & Friends" as he so often does, he would have heard a rare public scolding from the couch. "Last night, he chose to blow it," Kilmeade said, as Doocy and Earhardt looked at him with silent concern. Kilmeade meant a political rally Trump spoke at the previous evening, amid the latest public crisis to engulf his administration: a string of sexual accusations against the president's Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh. Trump had digressed in the middle of his stump speech in Mississippi to mock one of Kavanaugh's accusers, Christine Blasey Ford. "'Upstairs? Downstairs? Where was it?'" Trump told the crowd, referencing Ford's recent testimony, in which she told senators Kavanaugh tried to rape her at a high school party in the 1980s. "'I don't know. But I had one beer. That's the only thing I remember.'" The crowd laughed. But the next morning, even Republican senators who have supported Kavanaugh's nomination condemned Trump's comedy bit. And in a rarity, Kilmeade joined them - even if he wrapped his criticism in several layers of support for the president and his nominee. "We don't know how she knows Brett M. Kavanaugh; we don't know what house it took place in," he said of Ford's allegation. "Is that enough to destroy someone's career, life and reputation? " "However, the tactic of the president laying low has been lauded by all sides," Kilmeade continued, referencing the previous week-and-a-half in which Trump had mostly refrained from attacking the nominee's multiple accusers. "Last night he chose to blow it, as the FBI is handing in the report as early as today. ... As much as the crowd loved it, I wonder about the wisdom, tactically, of him doing that. " A note about Brian Kilmeade: He is arguably the most rebellious of the "Fox & Friends" co-hosts, not that it's a particularly high bar. In a Los Angeles Times story - one of many that have described the president's love of the show, and the co-hosts' reciprocal fondness for the president - Kilmeade argued that he has taken Trump to task many times. "Kilmeade ... disapproves of Trump calling the news media 'the enemy,'" the Times wrote, as example. Another: When Trump complained on Twitter this summer about "many years of U.S. foolishness and stupidity," Kilmeade made an issue of it on the show. "I don't understand this tweet," he told a guest. "Would you really say 'foolishness and stupidity' is a correct characterization?" A month later, in August, Kilmeade lamented that former White House aide Omarosa Manigault Newman had "outsmarted the president" by writing a tell-all book about his chaotic administration. Trump has "taken the bait and gone out and directly tweeted at her," Kilmeade said, worrying that attacking Newman would only help her sell more copies of her book. But Kilmeade rarely presses such criticisms, and they are vastly outnumbered by times he's defended the president or praised him. Witness what happened on the show immediately after he called out Trump's public mockery of Ford: "Well, there were holes in her story," Earhardt told Kilmeade, seated beside him on the big sofa. Doocy agreed with her. When the camera cut back to Kilmeade, he maintained that "sexual assault is deadly serious." But, he added, many of the other accusations endangering Kavanaugh's nomination amounted to "college kids acting like many college kids. " "Fox & Friends" then moved on from the topic entirely. A few minutes later, Kilmeade was talking about how easy it would be for Trump to win re-election. "He's going to have a very strong report card," he said. OLD SAYBROOK The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, the Kate, welcomes back award-winning fiddle champion, Eileen Ivers and Universal Roots on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Whats the difference between a fiddle and a violin? Nothing, when in the hands of Eileen Ivers. Grammy-Awarded and Emmy-nominated, Ivers continues to push the fiddling tradition boundaries from a folk music staple to a fiercely fresh, powerfully beautiful, intensely driving world stage experience. She is a celebrated guest soloist with more than 50 symphony orchestras, and has been called the future of the Celtic Fiddle by the Washington Post and the Jimi Hendrix of the violin by the New York Times. Though born in the Bronx, she is the 9-time All-Ireland Fiddle Champion. Ivers celebrates her 30-plus-year career as a performer, composer, producer, songwriter, band leader, educator, multi-instrumentalist and renowned pioneer in connecting her American, Irish traditional, jazz, blues, and world roots. Her new and passionate band, Universal Roots, connects music, cultures, stories and emotions that tie us together. The ensemble, features Matt Mancuso (lead vocals, guitar, trumpet, fiddle), Buddy Connolly (button accordion, whistles, piano, vocals), Lindsey Horner (upright and electric bass, baritone sax, vocals), and Dave Barckow (lead vocals, percussion, guitar). Together with Ivers on fiddle, mandolin, banjo, bodhran, and live looping they will present an energetic and joyous concert experience. For information and tickets for all shows at the Kate, visit www.thekate.org or call 860-510-0453. Maple Leaf Seven / Contributed photo MIDDLETOWN Vermonts acclaimed Maple Leaf Seven, a traditional jazz band, will open the Greater Middletown Concert Associations 2018-2019 Concert Series on Sunday at 3 p.m., in Middletowns MHS Performing Arts Center at 200 LaRosa Lane. Instrumentation of the bands seven members includes trumpet, clarinet, tenor sax, trombone, piano, bass and drums. Some vocals will be included in the presentation. The musicians will perform a jazz retrospective program taking listeners from the birth of jazz through the Voters age 50 and older are evenly divided on their choices for governor of Connecticut, while strongly supportive of issues relating to retirement security, health care, paid family leave, and long-term care, according to an AARP-commissioned poll released Wednesday. The telephone survey of 807 registered voters found 34 percent for Republican Bob Stefanowski, 33 percent for Democrat Ned Lamont, 4 percent for Oz Griebel, who is unaffiliated, and 2 percent for Libertarian Rod Hanscomb. The survey is AARPs way of keeping its issues before candidates and reminding them of the importance of the voting bloc of middle-aged and older voters. Most of us know, but it proves out year after year, that the 50-plus voterconsistently shows up at the polls, said Nora Duncan, the state director of AARP. Whats important to age 50-plus voters in elections is whats going to decide the elections. The survey by Alan Newman Research is based on live interviews of voters conducted from Sept. 12 to 20 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points. The sample was 35 percent Democrats, 32 percent unaffiliated or independent, and 25 percent Republican. Forty-one percent of those surveyed are retired, with another 6 percent considering themselves retired but working part-time. Fifty-two percent were very or somewhat confident of having enough money for retirement, while 41 percent were not. The 50-plus demographic is more moderate-to-conservative than younger voters, reflecting findings in AARP surveys nationally, Duncan said. Respondents in the Connecticut AARP survey identified themselves as 22 percent liberal or progressive, 41 percent moderate and 28 percent conservative. Lamont has been favored by the overall electorate in three previous public polls, though his leads in two polls were in the single digits. The race is widely considered by operatives in both parties to be competitive. The AARP survey found 50-plus voters slightly favoring Democrats in other races for statewide constitutional offices, with about one-third saying they were undecided. The Democrats leads for attorney general and treasurer fell within the margin of error, while Comptroller Kevin Lembo led Republican Kurt Miller by five points. The poll did not cover the race for secretary of the state. While there might be a lack of clarity about who might be our next attorney general or governor, for instance, there is no lack of clarity about where the 50-plus voters stand on issues, Duncan said. Duncan said the poll should convince the next governor and General Assembly to continue the implementation of a retirement-security program authorized by state law in 2016. It creates a state-administered payroll savings program for the 600,000 private-sector workers in Connecticut who have no payroll savings option. Seventy-seven percent said it was important for the program to become operational. The results on issues were not surprising, reflecting previous surveys by AARP. Paid family leave for family caregivers, a perennial issue in Connecticut, was supported by 85 percent. Shifting funding for long-term care to home care was supported by 76 percent. Lowering costs for health care and prescription drugs were important issues for more than three quarters of voters, while jobs and the economy were close behind. Fifty percent say they have been family caregivers, and one in five say they left a job to do so. Stefanowski has tightly focused his campaign on the state budget and supply-side economics, promising to eliminate the state income tax over eight years. Lamont has campaigned on a broader array of issues. AARP makes no candidate endorsements, but Duncan said it was a mistake for candidates to make narrow appeals. Some may look at this as a one issue race. It certainly seems that way in some cases. It is not a one-issue race, she said. In the horse race that is Connecticut, its going to be won by the candidates that focus on issues that are important to the largest and most consistent voting bloc in this state. Thats age 50 and up. The full survey is available on line at www.aarp.org/2018StateVoterSurveys. BRIDGEPORT - A local man received a suspended sentence Tuesday after he pleaded guilty to secretly taking photos under the dress of a female staff member at Housatonic Community College. Ervin Bryant, 37, of Pembroke Street, pleaded guilty to first-degree reckless endangerment, breach of peace and interfering with police. He was sentenced by Superior Court Judge Frank Iannotti to a two and a half-year suspended term followed by three years probation. At the urging of Senior Assistant States Attorney Tatiana Messina, the judge also ordered Bryant to register as a sex offender. On Oct. 3, 2017, state police were dispatched to the downtown college. A female staff member told police she was standing in a doorway of a co-workers office when she felt something behind her. When she turned around, police said she saw Bryant standing close behind her hold his cellphone with the flash on at the level of the bottom of her dress. College security officers later reviewed the video surveillance in the corridor and saw Bryant holding his cell phone under the victims dress, police said. When officers later confronted Bryant, police said he smashed his cell phone and threw it in the garbage. WASHINGTON - The White House prepared late Wednesday to send the FBI's completed report on Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh to the Senate, as partisan rancor continued to grow over the scope of the investigation into sexual assault allegations that have endangered his confirmation. The latest FBI probe updating Kavanaugh's background check was set to arrive Wednesday night on Capitol Hill, according to two people familiar with its release. White House officials have been briefed on the FBI's findings, the people said. In anticipation of the report's arrival, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., on Wednesday night teed up a key vote to advance Kavanaugh's nomination for Friday. Until that vote, senators will be rushing in and out of a secure facility at the Capitol to review the sensitive FBI report that the bureau has compiled, looking into allegations of sexual misconduct against Kavanaugh. "There will be plenty of time for members to review and be briefed on this supplemental material before a Friday cloture vote," McConnell said Wednesday night. The developments came as Senate Democrats opened a new front in their objections to the investigations of Kavanaugh's conduct, suggesting in a letter to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, that past FBI background checks of Kavanaugh include evidence of inappropriate behavior, without disclosing specifics. The letter, signed by eight of the 10 Democrats on the Judiciary Committee, challenged the accuracy of a tweet from the committee's Republican staff on Tuesday that said: "Nowhere in any of these six FBI reports, which the committee has reviewed on a bipartisan basis, was there ever a whiff of ANY issue - at all - related in any way to inappropriate sexual behavior or alcohol abuse." The Democrats said the information in the tweet is "not accurate," urging the GOP to correct it. "It is troubling that the committee majority has characterized information from Judge Kavanaugh's confidential background investigation on Twitter, as that information is confidential and not subject to public release," the Democrats, led by Sen. Richard Durbin, Ill., wrote to Grassley. "If the committee majority is going to violate that confidentiality and characterize this background investigation publicly, you must at least be honest about it." The two committee Democrats who did not sign the letter were Sens. Christopher Coons, Del., and Amy Klobuchar, Minn. Grassley's staff responded on Twitter that "nothing in the tweet is inaccurate or misleading." "The committee stands by its statement, which is completely truthful," the committee Republicans said. "More baseless innuendo and more false smears from Senate Democrats." Once the FBI report is sent to the Hill, it will be available at a sensitive compartmented information facility, or SCIF, in the Capitol Visitor Center, a secure room designed for senators to review sensitive or classified material, two Senate officials said. Just one physical copy of the report will be available, and only to senators and 10 committee staffers cleared to view the material. The two parties will take turns having access to the FBI report in shifts, according to a senior Senate official. For example, Republicans will spend an hour with the report from 8 a.m. until 9 a.m. Thursday, then Democrats will have an hour with the report. It will rotate throughout the rest of the day Thursday and potentially into Friday, with senators being briefed by staff members simultaneously. But even before the report was formally sent to the Senate, lawyers for Christine Blasey Ford - the first woman who has accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault - criticized what they viewed as an incomplete FBI probe. "An FBI supplemental background investigation that did not include an interview of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford - nor the witnesses who corroborate her testimony - cannot be called an investigation," her legal team said in a statement. "We are profoundly disappointed that after the tremendous sacrifice she made in coming forward, those directing the FBI investigation were not interested in seeking the truth." Earlier Wednesday, a trio of Republican senators crucial to Kavanaugh's confirmation prospects criticized President Donald Trump for mocking the account of a woman who has accused his Supreme Court nominee of sexual assault decades ago. In separate interviews, Sens. Jeff Flake, Ariz., Susan Collins, Maine, and Lisa Murkowski, Alaska, - considered swing votes on Kavanaugh - took issue with comments the president made the night before at a political rally in Mississippi that drew laughs from his supporters. "There's no time and no place for remarks like that," Flake said on NBC's "Today" show. "To discuss something this sensitive at a political rally is just not right. It's just not right. I wish he hadn't done it. . . . It's kind of appalling." Flake, the Judiciary Committee member who pushed to delay the vote on Kavanaugh so the FBI could investigate, later told The Washington Post that Trump's comments would not factor into his thinking on the nomination. "You can't take it out on other people, the president's insensitive remarks," he said. The impact on Collins and Murkowski was less clear. About two hours after Flake's appearance, Collins also took exception to Trump's remarks, telling reporters, "The president's comments were just plain wrong." She did not answer a question about whether the comments could affect how she votes on Kavanaugh. Speaking to reporters early Wednesday afternoon, Murkowski said: "I thought the president's comments yesterday mocking Dr. Ford were wholly inappropriate and, in my view, unacceptable." Asked whether the comments would affect her vote, she said: "I am taking everything into account." In his most direct attack on Ford, who has accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault while both were teenagers in Maryland, Trump sought Tuesday night to highlight holes in the account Ford gave in sworn testimony to the Judiciary Committee last week. Ford has said that the incident happened in an upstairs room at a gathering of teenagers and that she is "100 percent" certain it was Kavanaugh who assaulted her, although she has acknowledged that her memories of other details of the evening remain unclear. Trump's comments at Tuesday's rally prompted a debate that played out on cable television and elsewhere over whether he had hurt his nominee's chances. Among those who weighed in was Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., who said that everything Trump had said was factual but that he took issue with his tone. "I would tell him, 'Knock it off, you're not helping,' " Graham said during an appearance at the Atlantic Festival. "This is what you get when you go through a trailer park with a $100 bill," Graham added, paraphrasing an infamous line used by James Carville, a former campaign strategist for President Bill Clinton, to refer to a Clinton accuser. Besides Flake, Collins and Murkowski, Democratic Sens. Heidi Heitkamp, N.D., and Joe Manchin III, W.Va., also have yet to announce how they will vote. While trying to round up votes on his side, McConnell has also taken sharp aim at Democrats, accusing them of trying to "move the goal posts" on Kavanaugh's confirmation fight by suggesting that Friday would be too soon for a key vote on him. "If my friends across the aisle had their way, the goal posts on Judge Kavanaugh's nomination would be in another time zone," he said. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., fired back in remarks after McConnell, saying the week-long delay to let the FBI investigate came at the request of Republican senators who were not prepared to vote for Kavanaugh's nomination. "Man up and say it's your decision, not ours," Schumer said. White House counselor Kellyanne Conway defended her boss during a Wednesday morning television appearance. "The president is pointing out factual inconsistencies by Ford's own testimony," Conway said on Fox News. "There are gaps in her memory. There are facts she cannot remember." At a White House briefing later in the day, press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders echoed those statements and asserted a double standard when it comes to questioning the testimony of Ford and questioning the testimony of Kavanaugh. "It wasn't anything but the president stating facts," Sanders said of Trump. She declined to say whether Trump still believes Ford was credible. Besides Ford, two other women have publicly accused Kavanaugh of misconduct while he was in high school or college. Deborah Ramirez, who has accused Kavanaugh of exposing himself to her while they were students at Yale University, has been interviewed by the FBI. A third accuser, Julie Swetnick, said in an affidavit that Kavanaugh was present at a house party in 1982 where she was the victim of a gang rape. Kavanaugh has vehemently denied all allegations of misconduct. Some Democrats have voiced concerns about the scope of the FBI probe, the extent to which the White House is limiting it and whether a week is long enough to conduct a thorough investigation. As a vote nears, Democrats have also sought to highlight concerns about Kavanaugh's temperament, pointing to moments in last week's hearing in which he grew testy at senators and was emotional at other points. During his television appearance, Flake reiterated that he, too, was concerned that Kavanaugh at times was "sharp and more partisan than a lot of us would like to see." But he said Kavanaugh's tenure as a federal appeals court judge was also relevant. "We've seen a record that he's had on the court of collegiality and working with other members," Flake said. During his remarks, McConnell said it was completely understandable that Kavanaugh had grown "a little testy" at the hearing. "I would ask any of my colleagues, how would you feel if your reputation had been destroyed in this mudslide?" he said. --- The Washington Post's Felicia Sonmez contributed to this report. NEWINGTON Ring in autumn with an evening of brews, food, music and prizes at Barktoberfest, all to benefit medical care for pets at the Connecticut Humane Society. The special fundraiser is set for Oct. 11 from 5-8 p.m. at Stubborn Beauty Brewing Company, 180 Johnson St., Middletown. Lead organizers for the event are Juliet Cavanaugh, owner/broker of Cavanaugh & Company, LLC, and attorney Scott Sandler, managing partner at Sandler, Hansen & Alexander, LLC. They are joined on their event committee by Bloomfield Animal Control Officer Chris Sparks and Middletown business owner Eric Lopkin, who is also on the Board of Directors for CHS. We at the Connecticut Humane Society are very excited about Barktoberfest, said Eric Lopkin, president of The Modern Observer Group. The energy and passion that Juliet, Scott and the other organizers have brought to this is amazing. They have been willing to do so much for our organization and, more importantly, for the animals we care for. Many area businesses have also stepped up for pets in need, including Stubborn Beauty Brewing Company, Illianos Restaurant (Barktoberfest guests will be enjoying their pizza and wings) and a wide variety of corporate sponsors: Wild Orchid Florals, Middletown Toyota, Atlantic Home Loans, Charles IT, The Spa of Essex, Absolute Air Services, Hubby for Hire, Shapiro Law Offices, and iHeartRadios Renee DiNino, who will be playing music at the event. Many other businesses have pledged their support by donating items for the raffle at Barktoberfest. Admission is only $15 per person through Oct. 10 at CThumane.org, or $20 per person at the door at Stubborn Beauty Brewing Company. All donations support medical care of each pet in the shelter, including spays and neuters, emergency surgeries, and treatment for chronic conditions. CHS serves pets from all over the state through its three locations in Newington, Waterford and Westport and the Fox Memorial Clinic, a low-fee, public veterinary clinic in Newington. The Connecticut Humane Society is the leading resource in the state for companion animal welfare, enriching the lives of families and communities through adoption services, medical care, education, and prevention of cruelty. The Connecticut Humane Society is not affiliated with any national animal welfare groups, does not receive government funding, and does not euthanize for time, space, breed or age. To learn more about the Connecticut Humane Society, please visit www.cthumane.org. Halloween party benefits arts alliance MADITON Shoreline Arts Alliances Guild will be hosting Costumes & Cocktails, a Halloween party to celebrate the fall season and the arts on the shoreline, will be held Friday, Oct. 26 at the Madison Country Club at 8 W Wharf Rd, Madison, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets are on sale now startING at $35 per person. Sponsorships are welcome. Visit www.ShorelineArts.org/costumes-cocktails for more information. Tickets can also be purchased by check made out to Shoreline Arts Alliance with the memo Costumes & Cocktails # of tickets sent to 725 Boston Post Rd, Guilford, CT. Call 203-453-3890 or email office@shorelinearts.org with any questions. Nature walk, scavenger hunt planned MIDDLETOWN Beth Lapin and educator Liz Bredefeld will lead a free nature walk and scavenger hunt for families through the Middletown Recreation office, Saturday, Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. Guests should bring their children and grandchildren for family fun with nature, using creativity and senses with a scavenger hunt and find new ways to appreciate being outdoors. Meet at the Pavilion at Crystal Lake Ron McCutcheon Park. Wear hiking shoes and bring a light snack and water. THis event is limited to 15 families. Use Registration Number 460460 on the General Registration Form (attached) or register online (https://webtrac.middletownct.gov/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/splash.html). Fax a completed General Registration Form to 860-344-3319 or scan it and email to rec@middletownct.gov or mail it to 61 Durant Terrace, Middletown, CT 06457. Adam Stanton House benefit set CLINTON To support the Adam Stanton House as a nonprofit museum, the second annual Harvest Moon Benefit will be held Saturday, Oct. 29, 7 p.m .to 10 p.m. Located at 63 East Main Street, Clinton, CT the Adam Stanton House showcases the life of a prominent merchant in a well preserved late 18th century home and early general store. All furnishings within the home belonged to the Stanton family and give one the sense of what life truly was like in early times. This benefit will mark the 1 year anniversary of reopening of the property to the public and showcase efforts of the newly formed 501c3 non-profit Adam Stanton House, Inc. to renew efforts to preserve and maintain the property as an educational museum for the enjoyment of all. Knowledgeable docents will be present to help share the Stanton family story and to discuss how to be part of efforts to preserve this special property. Tickets are on sale now. Attendees will enjoy wine, beer, cider, soft drinks, cheese, appetizers and hors douevres all served in beautifully decorated candlelit rooms while music plays throughout the house. There will be a gift basket raffle with many prizes. Tickets are available in advance for $40 each for members and $50 each for non-members. They can be purchased via credit card on-line at www.adamstantonhouse.org Additional event details and information about the new Adam Stanton House, Inc. organization can be found there as well. Tickets are limited so purchase soon. A limited number of tickets will be available for purchase at the door the night of the event for $50 each for members and non-members alike payable by cash or check only. Proceeds of this fundraiser will be directly earmarked along with other funds for restoration of the front porch. Additional tax-deductible donations are greatly appreciated to achieve our restoration goals. For more information e-mail us at adamstantonhouse@gmail.com Three days after the Pentagon's new deploy-or-out policy went into effect, the U.S. Army and Air Force are scrambling to finalize plans for figuring out how many non-deployable service members will have to leave the military. It's been eight months since Defense Secretary Jim Mattis announced that the U.S. military has no place for service members who are non-deployable for more than 12 months, in a move to create a more ready force for the future. For months, senior service leaders have said publicly they were working to finalize individual service policies. But the Army and Air Force were not prepared to explain their plans for implementing the new policy, known as DoD Instruction 1332.45 "Retention Determinations For Non-deployable Service Members," which the Pentagon released Oct. 2. The new policy requires each service to track and report non-deployable service members on a monthly basis and determine whether the troops in question are on temporary non-deployable or permanent non-deployable status. The Army told Military.com it would not release non-deployable numbers at this time. "For the Army to maintain a ready and lethal force, soldiers must be prepared to withstand the rigors of ground combat. In concert with the new Department of Defense directive, the Army is currently refining its policy for non-deployable soldiers," Army spokeswoman Col. Kathleen Turner said in a written statement. Army Secretary Mark Esper in late August said the service has approximately 90,000 soldiers who are on some type of non-deployable status, which is roughly 9 percent of its active, National Guard and Reserve force. Esper stressed that the Army "plays away games" and that the new policy will "send the right signal to the force." The Air Force said "approximately 1,600" active-duty airmen are expected to be affected by the new policy, according to an Oct. 3 statement. "The Air Force is finalizing details on how it will implement Department of Defense Instruction 1332.45. ... Until the updated policy guidance is complete in late 2018, airmen who have been non-deployable for 12 consecutive months and their commanders will continue to follow existing procedures," officials said in a statement. Once the guidance is published, the Air Force will begin the process of evaluating the airmen for a "retention determination, referral to the Disability Evaluation System, or initiation of administrative separation, depending on each airman's circumstances," the statement says. "It's important to understand this is not an automatic separation policy. It's a process, similar to what we already do today, that allows us to evaluate our non-deployable airmen to determine if their continued service is compatible with and can meet the requirements the nation expects of us as an Air Force," said Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, Air Force deputy chief of staff for Manpower, Personnel and Services. "The process we create will take care of all airmen while recognizing and ensuring we have a fair and equitable deployment process across our Air Force." Marine Corps Preparations The Marine Corps seemed to be better prepared for the new policy. It released an Oct. 3 Marine Admin Message 564/18, Retention of Non-deployable Marines, which describes how "our process and procedures for retention and separations fall in line with the newly implemented DoD Instruction 1332.45," according to Maj. Craig Thomas, a spokesman for Marine Corps Manpower and Reserve Affairs. "The Marine Corps has always prudently and expeditiously separated recruits and Marines who have been in a prolonged non-deployable status," he said, noting the exception of pregnant and postpartum Marines. The main difference in the new policy, he said, is "the retention decision that was previously left to the commanding generals" will now fall to Headquarters Marine Corps Manpower and Reserve Affairs for further review and adjudication. As of Aug. 31, the Corps had approximately 7,458 active-duty Marines who were non-deployable, excluding trainee and transient populations, Thomas said. "This includes temporary as well as permanent non-deployable Marines," he said. Most of these cases are medical; some are temporarily non-deployable because of illness or injury, he said. "Our focus," Thomas said, "is to help these Marines heal as quickly as possible, so they can get back to training with their units." Another group is considered permanently non-deployable and pending a disability evaluation. "In those cases, the Marine Corps' goal is to seek a timely disability decision in coordination with the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense and help transition the member to life outside the military," Thomas said. Navy Policy U.S. Navy leaders announced the service's new policy in a Sept. 18 service-wide administrative message following a Facebook Live event. Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. Robert Burke told sailors who go 12 consecutive months without qualifying for sea duty, "you're subject to processing for administrative separation." The Navy message states that the new policy will hold sailors responsible if they are non-deployable because of missing required medical and dental appointments. "Ultimately, it is the personal responsibility of every sailor to maintain individual readiness including medical, dental" and other readiness categories, it states. This seems to run counter to the new DoD policy 1332.45, which states that individual medical readiness, or IMR categories, "are not considered non-deployable conditions." "Components are expected to immediately correct all IMR deficits to ensure service members are medically ready to deploy," according to the document, which includes examples such as "overdue dental screening" and service members who require urgent or emergent dental treatment." The Pentagon estimates that as of Aug. 31, approximately 126,000 active-duty, National Guard and Reserve component personnel were considered non-deployable. That's roughly 6 percent of the U.S. military, taking into consideration temporary and permanent non-deployable service members, according to DoD spokeswoman Jessica Maxwell. Under the DoD's new policy, personnel are considered temporarily non-deployable if they: are a patient expected to recover; have a medical condition that limits their full duty; are pregnant or postpartum; are a prisoner or have pending legal actions against them; are absent without leave or are on an unauthorized absence; are without a family care plan; are in the process of adopting a child; are not yet 18 years of age; are assigned to a location to provide support to a family member; are non-deployable per their respective service's discretion; have a pending administrative separation; are considered unsatisfactory participants or have administrative action pending (Reserve component only). Exemptions will be given to those who are pregnant or postpartum, officials said. Troops are considered permanently non-deployable if they: have a medical condition that permanently prevents deployment; are enrolled in the Disability Evaluation System; have a permanent profile and are awaiting a line-of-duty determination (Reserve component); are unable to carry a firearm; are the sole survivor or surviving family member; are deferred from hostile fire zones; are granted restriction of military duties in accordance with DoDI 1300.06 or "Conscientious Objection"; are an ex-prisoner of war. Special consideration will be given to personnel who've been wounded in combat, defense department officials said. -- Matthew Cox can be reached at matthew.cox@military.com. -- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @oriana0214. The improving job market for veterans and transitioning service members has set off a competition among employers for those with skills that easily translate into the private sector, according to a military-to-civilian recruiting firm. "Companies are fighting a war for talent" as both the civilian and non-civilian unemployment rates have dipped below four percent, said Matt Disher, a senior vice president with RecruitMilitary, a firm that seeks to connect employers with "high-talent" veterans. Disher said organizations are now competing against each other to land talented vets. RecruitMilitary, a subsidiary of Bradley-Morris, Inc., bills itself as "the leading military recruiting firm specializing in transitioning military and veteran talent." The company will participate this week in a jobs fair sponsored by Farmers Insurance at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Disher said that some 250 to 300 veterans, military spouses, transitioning military personnel, and National Guard and Reserve members were expected to attend to meet with representatives of about 52 firms who will be exhibiting. The event will take place amid a changing climate in the jobs market as employers seek to take advantage of the booming economy. And companies are gradually becoming more aware of the talent pool that exists among veterans and transitioning service members that could help their firms grow, Disher said. "A lot of the large companies, a lot of the ones that have needed this talent all along, they now realize the asset of hiring from the military," said Disher, a former Marine sergeant and combat engineer. The purpose of the job fairs, which RecruitMilitary participates in at the rate of about 100 a year, is two-fold, he said. The first objective, Disher said, is to put the employer and the veteran on the same wavelength. Disher cited the example of military aircraft mechanics. "The airlines are looking for skilled mechanics to work on aircraft," he said. "What better place to go than the military -- where people operate in a zero-fail environment -- to grab somebody used to working on jet aircraft?" The second objective is to get the veterans and transitioning service members into networking, he said. "The premise of the career exposition [or jobs fair] is to shake hands with people who might be able to get you to the next level of your career," Disher said. With the jobs market improving, the focus on veterans employment should also turn to veterans "underemployment," Disher said. "We're talking about the person who is statistically employed, but they're working a job that doesn't fully put their skill set to work" or offer career advancement opportunities, he said. The latest report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for August showed that the veterans unemployment rate is 3.8 percent, slightly better than the overall unemployment rate of 3.9 percent. The unemployment rate for female veterans is 4.5 percent. Perhaps one of the most encouraging statistics in the BLS report is the continuing downward trend in the unemployment rate for post-9/11 veterans, or what BLS calls "Gulf War-era II veterans.'' For years, the unemployment rate for this population was in the double digits. The BLS report for August 2018 showed the unemployment rate for post-9/11 veterans was 3.9 percent, down from 4.2 percent in August 2017. From 2009 to 2012, the unemployment rate for post-9/11 veterans was above 10 percent, hitting a high of 12.1 percent in 2011, according to BLS. -- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com. A Navy Reserve officer and Naval Academy graduate will face a general court-martial after allegedly leaving his unit for weeks while on active duty following a deployment to Bahrain, where he was accused of sex trafficking, hiring prostitutes and failing to report misconduct by other troops. Lt. Cmdr. Joseph R. Nelson, a surface-warfare officer with the Naval Operational Support Center in New York, left his unit around June 19 and remained absent until he was apprehended on or about July 9, according to his charge sheet. Once apprehended, Nelson allegedly gave an official statement to investigators during which he said he had completed his mobilization and was no longer on active duty. That statement, according to the charge sheet, "was totally false, and was known by the said Lieutenant Commander Joseph Nelson to be so false." Nelson also faces a slew of charges stemming back to a yearlong period near Al-Hidd, Bahrain, during which he's accused of publicly associating with and cohabitating with known prostitutes; failing to report other service members' misconduct; paying for sex; and trafficking by using force, fraud or coercion to cause a person to engage in sexual acts, according to the four-page charge sheet obtained by Military.com on Wednesday. Related content: The alleged crimes in Bahrain occurred between June 2017 and May 2018, according to the charges. Nelson's case has moved into the arraignment phase, but a trial date has not yet been set, said Lt. Tim Pietrack, a spokesman for Navy Region Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia, which is serving as the convening authority. Nelson is the sixth member of the Navy -- and only officer -- to face charges for alleged crimes during a similar time period in Bahrain. Several of the lieutenant commander's charges constituted conduct unbecoming an officer and brought discredit upon the armed forces, the charge sheet states. The other five sailors charged with a string of crimes are Chief Operations Specialist Jayson Waitman Grant, Chief Logistics Specialist Calvin Halfacre, Chief Logistics Specialist Earl Anthony McLaughlin, Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Jihad Hobeson Littlejohn and Quartermaster 3rd Class Kenneth Olaya. All are currently awaiting court-martial. Navy officials have declined to comment on the six cases while hearings remain ongoing. The five enlisted sailors and Nelson were each the subject of separate probes by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, Cmdr. Josh Frey, a spokesman for Naval Forces Central Command, said in August. Bahraini leaders have long struggled to address forced labor and sex trafficking in the country. Migrant workers and unskilled laborers are particularly vulnerable to the crimes, according to the State Department. All naval personnel deploying there must now complete training about how to spot human trafficking and what they can do to help combat the problem, including speaking up when they see others breaking the rules. "The goal of this campaign is to raise awareness of this issue, reinforce Navy core values, and promote bystander intervention by encouraging sailors to speak up when wrongdoing or destructive behaviors are occurring," Frey said. "The campaign also includes ongoing law enforcement and investigative measures to identify and appropriately address any further activity discovered." Nelson, who's originally from New Jersey, earned his commission in 2006 after graduating from the Naval Academy, according to his service records. He completed surface-warfare officers' school in 2011 before transitioning to the Reserve in 2012. -- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @ginaaharkins. Forensic Science Advances Mean US War Fighters Are No Longer Likely to Be Buried as Unknown No American service member killed in action over the past 30 years has been buried as unknown. The U.S. Air Force is weighing the addition of another F-35 Joint Strike Fighter squadron at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, possibly as soon as 2020, Military.com has learned. The plus-up would give additional resources to the busiest Air Force F-35 training wing, providing pilots necessary, enhanced equipment currently lacking in the pipeline, according to the head of the training wing. "There are ongoing discussions to increase the aircraft at the 33rd Fighter Wing, to put additional aircraft and missions [here]," said Col. Paul Moga, commander of the fighter wing, which is part of Air Education and Training Command. The hope is the wing will receive 24 jets with the latest software, Block 3F, in addition to upgrading the current fleet of fighters at the base, he said. The boost would not only give incoming pilots much newer stealth aircraft to train with, but also offer other improvements, due to the more advanced software and newer planes. "The reliability, the sustainability, the maintainability, and a lot of the maintenance practices for troubleshooting [all of that] gets significantly better ...and we'll see a clear and quantifiable increase in all of our performance and maintenance metrics," Moga said in an interview Friday. Related content: He first spoke with Military.com in May when Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson visited the base. At that time, he was concerned the wing needed help to relieve the pressures of training student pilots with insufficient resources. As a result of "blunt" conversation, officials at the wing have worked with top Air Force leaders, the F-35 Joint Program Office and F-35 manufacturer Lockheed Martin to get supplies needed keep up with training demands. Since May, "We did see some additional parts and support flow our way," Moga said, adding that it has since slowed because spare parts for the oldest F-35s simply don't exist anymore. Although the F-35 is the Pentagon's newest and most advanced aircraft, the oldest Joint Strike Fighters in the fleet reside at Eglin. The planes are part of Lockheed's earliest low-rate initial production batches. "We can show up with a suitcase full of money and order the parts, but a lot of them have long lead times -- 12 to 24 months -- to go to the subcontractor, pay them, get them to machine it and then get them to deliver the parts," Moga said. He did not specify which parts are needed. It puts the 33rd Fighter Wing at a crossroads, he said. The service can put in the request to have the parts manufactured, or it can wait for the current fleet to be upgraded. "A lot of the parts we need now, we might not need in two years when our aircraft are upgraded," Moga said. "I think we're going to continue with some brute force maintenance to get the most out of the jets in the configuration that they're in now. And then over time, the Air Force has committed to upgrading our fleet." Upgrades Ahead The wing's current aircraft have some of the oldest Block 2B software. But the more advanced Block 3F is on the way, Moga said. "We'll start [the process] early next year, and it's going to take a couple of years," he said, adding that there is also discussion about upgrading the fleet to the Block 4 software -- the latest software upgrade for the F-35's avionics and weapons delivery. No changes are imminent, however. The first F-35s from Eglin will enter depot maintenance for the software and mission systems upgrades in a phased approach. It could take weeks or months to configure each jet, so the 33rd has synced any other maintenance work already on the schedule to coincide with the software upgrades. Moga said this will limit how long aircraft are at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, which houses the Ogden Air Logistics Complex. "We have to be very smart and deliberate about how we schedule these upgrades I can't afford to take six aircraft off the line at the same time, because I won't be able to fill my training requirements," he said. Reiterating previous comments, Moga said he has not seen a dramatic shift in training for student pilots with older aircraft, because training for the "near-peer" threat has always been a part of the curriculum. "We have been focused on a near-peer adversary training with these airframes, whether it be the F-22 [Raptor] or the F-35," he said. "If we trained to a lower level with these highly capable aircraft, we're underutilizing them and it's not challenging for [the students]." Training to Date The Air Force's original vision for the 33rd Fighter Wing was different, with a planned five squadrons, including three Air Force, one Marine Corps and one Navy. Today, the fighter wing maintains 25 F-35As. The Navy, which sends pilots through its own training pipeline at the base, keeps eight F-35Cs on station. The fifth-generation stealth plane arrived at Eglin in 2011 and made the 33rd Fighter Wing the first U.S. F-35 training unit under Air Education and Training Command. The first class of student pilots started training in 2013. Three years into the flight and development courses, 80 percent of flights were focused on pilot development and instructor pilot development, while 20 percent focused on producing students. Now, "85 to 90 percent of all the flights that we fly are solely dedicated to producing new F-35 pilots, and 15 to 10 percent we allocate to instructor pilot development," Moga said. He said the courses offered at Eglin have produced roughly 200 Air Force pilots to date, but Luke Air Force Base is on track to outpace Eglin's training production. Luke's curriculum requires students to train for eight months, more than double the time of pilots training at Eglin. But it also has an academic training center, offering courses such as the F-35 pilot "B-course;" training for those transitioning from other fighters; and an instructor pilot upgrade course, 56th Fighter Wing Maj. Rebecca Heyse previously told Military.com. Luke also has a requalification course for F-35 pilots returning to flying after being out of the jet for a while, she added. This was "fully anticipated, just because they're growing. Logistically and statistically, they'll produce more than us in [fiscal 2019]," Moga said, adding that Luke also provides foreign training programs. Nevertheless, he believes Eglin is "acing the course, with what we've got, with one squadron of aircraft and one squadron of instructors." With a potential buildup of fighters at the base, Moga said he doesn't foresee a large pipeline buildup that mirrors Luke's foreign training programs. "I think Eglin will remain U.S.-only, mainly because of the complexity with our test mission," he said, referring to the base's testing ranges, including bombing ranges and the 123,000-square-mile Gulf Test Range. The ranges have given the students a taste of what skills they need to improve on to face threats in the real world, Moga said. "We have some really good emitters on the Eglin test and training range that we use fairly routinely, and there's ongoing discussions down here to plus that up even more," he said. Those discussions involve putting threat emitters -- which simulate a surface-air-missile weapon -- along the Gulf coast from Eglin to Tallahassee, around the Big Bend (or Apalachee Bay in the northeastern part of the Gulf) and down to Tampa, Moga explained, roughly encompassing a 400-mile stretch. "For the moment, we know where our contributions lie, and what we can do to facilitate and further these efforts, and we still have a few challenges to work through," said Moga, a former F-15C Eagle and F-22 pilot. "We've seen some clear improvements we can't just sit back and be happy with where we are. We've got to keep pushing the system." -- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Oriana0214. While the U.S. Air Force has begun saving money by 3D printing replacement handles for the coffee cups on its mobility aircraft, one lawmaker still wants to know why it spent $1,200 per cup in the first place. In a recent letter addressed to Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson, Sen. Chuck Grassley, a Republican from Iowa, questioned why the service spent tens of thousands of dollars over the last three years on hot cups that can reheat coffee and tea on air refueling tankers. "This latest example of reckless spending of taxpayer dollars gives me no confidence that the Air Force is taking real steps to reduce wasteful spending practices," he said in the letter. "This report also heightens my concern that the DoD Office of Inspector General is not prioritizing oversight of wasteful spending." In July, Air Mobility Command officials said that airmen at Travis Air Force Base, California, had developed a solution to 3D print handles instead of reordering the cups, which had flimsy handles that broke often -- a big expense. Related content: AMC said the 60th Aerial Port Squadron purchased 10 new hot cups for $6,930 in 2016. The price for each cup surged from $693 to $1,220 in 2018, resulting in a cost of $32,000 for 25 cups -- a price jump of $527 per cup, officials said in a release at the time. "While it is laudable that the men and women at Travis Air Force Base took action to curb this wasteful spending, this does not address the puzzling question of why the Air Force is buying these cups at such a high cost to begin with," Grassley said. He has requested that Wilson submit a report to his office detailing the following: why the price of the cups increased in the first place; how many cups total had been purchased for the surged price; if the cup is truly a necessity for airmen; whether there are alternatives for the cups; and whether Wilson will ask the Office of Inspector General to "review spending on these high-priced cups to determine if the Air Force did an adequate job of looking at alternatives." "Every dollar that is spent on overpriced spare parts or replacement hot cups is a dollar that should have been spent on ensuring our national defense," the lawmaker said. "As Congress looks to authorize future defense spending, it is important to understand how the money is being spent, and why." Grassley hopes to receive Wilson's reply no later than Oct. 19. This isn't the first time he has raised concerns over wasteful spending. Grassley demanded answers in June after reports surfaced that the service was spending $10,000 on toilet seat covers for certain aircraft because parts were no longer available to quickly manufacture them. Grassley queried the department on the "egregious and wasteful" spending after Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Will Roper told DefenseOne in an interview the service was shelling out thousands of dollars each time to replace broken seat covers instead of using 3D printing for a quick and less expensive fix. "The DoD should view this revelation with alarm, because it could be used to cut the defense budget -- as it was in the 1980s. It seems to me that there is no way to justify a $10,000 price tag for a toilet seat lid. It's just not credible. It needs scrutiny," Grassley said. Weeks later, the Air Force said it had found an alternative solution . "We now produce the latrine cover for the C-5 [Galaxy] using 3D printing," service spokeswoman Ann Stefanek told Military.com in an email July 11. "Using this new process allows us to make parts that are no longer in production and is driving major cost savings." -- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Oriana0214. October 3rd marks the 25th anniversary of the Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia, a military operation forever memorialized in Mark Bowden's book "Black Hawk Down" and the Ridley Scott-directed movie it inspired. We've got some news: "Black Hawk Down" is being restored in 4K resolution and the classic film will be released on 4K Ultra HD on May 7, 2019. Here's a first look at the cover art. The operation in Somalia was intended to take out Habr Gidr leader Mohamed Farrah Aidid. Local forces shot down two Black Hawk helicopters and damaged three others. The next two days were spent trying to rescue the trapped men. 18 Americans were killed and 73 wounded. While the exact number is in dispute, it's safe to say hundreds of Somali militia and civilians were either killed or wounded during the fierce fighting. The film won well-deserved Oscars for Best Editing and Best Sound and Scott was nominated for Best Director and Slawomir Idziak was nominated (and deserved to win) for Best Cinematography. The cast features movie icons like Tom Sizemore ("Saving Private Ryan") and Sam Shepherd ("The Right Stuff") and younger players like Josh Hartnett, Ewan McGregor, Eric Bana, Tom Hardy, Orlando Bloom, Ty Burrell and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau. Casting director Bonnie Timmerman was certainly on her game here. We'll have more details about the restored "Black Hawk Down" as the release date draws closer. How to use the mindat.org media viewer Click/touch this help panel to close it. Welcome to the mindat.org media viewer. Here is a quick guide to some of the options available to you. Different controls are available depending on the type of media being shown (photo, video, animation, 3d image) Controls - all media types Zoom in and out of media using your mousewheel or with a two-finger 'resize' action on a touch device. Use the mouse or your finger to drag the image or the view area of the image around the screen. < and > at the left and right hand side of the screen move forwards and backwards for the other images associated with the media you selected. Usually this is used for previous/next photo in a gallery, in an article or in search results. Keyboard shortcuts: use shift + the left and right arrow keys. < and > in the bottom center are used for switching between the photos of the same specimen. Keyboard shortcuts: use the left and right arrow keys. > in the bottom center, raises the information box giving details and further options for the media, < at the top of this box then hides it. Keyboard shortcuts: use the up and down arrow keys. ? opens this help window. Keyboard shortcuts: use the H key or the ? key. Other keyboard shortcuts: 1 Fit image to screen 2 Fill screen with image 5 Display at full resolution < Make background darker > Make background lighter space Hide/dim titles and buttons Scalebar If the field of view (FOV) is specified for the photo, the scalebar appears in the left bottom corner of the viewer. The scalebar is draggable and resizeable. Drag the right edge to resize it. Double click will reset the scalebar to it's default size and position. If the scalebar is in default position, double click will make it circular. Controls - Video Video files have a standard set of video controls: - Reset to start, - Skip back, - Play, - Pause, - Skip forwards. Keyboard shortcuts: You can stop/start video play with the P key. Controls - Animation (Spin Rotation) Animation (usually 360 degree spin rotations) have their own controls: - enable spin mode. Note that while images are loading this option will not be available but will be automatically activated when the animation has loaded. Once active you can spin the image/change the animation by moving your mouse or finger on the image left/right or by pressing the [ or ] keys. The button switches to move mode so that you can use your mouse/fingers to move the image around the screen as with other media types. The button, or the P key will start playing the animation directly, you can interrupt this by using the mouse or finger on the image to regain manual movement control. Controls - 3D Stereoscopic images If a stereoscopic 3D image is opened in the viewer, the 3D button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "3D settings" menu. The 3D images can be viewed in several ways: - without any special equipment using cross-eyed or parallel-eyed method - with stereoscope - with anaglyph glasses. - on a suitable 3D TV or monitor (passive 3D system) For details about 3D refer to: Mindat manuals: Mindat Media Viewer: 3D To enable/disable 3D stereo display of a compatible stereo pair image press the 3 key. If the left/right images are reversed on your display (this often happens in full-screen mode) press the 4 key to reverse them. Controls - photo comparison mode If a photo with activated comparison mode is opened in the viewer, the button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "Comparison mode settings" menu. Several layouts are supported: slider and side by-side comparison with up to 6 photos shown synchronously on the screen. On each of the compared photos a view selector is placed, e.g.: Longwave UV . It shows the name of currently selected view and allows to select a view for each placeholder. Summary of all keyboard shortcuts General Motors announced Wednesday, Oct. 3 that Honda would invest $2.75 billion in its Cruise unit as the two "pursue the shared goal of transforming mobility through the large-scale development of autonomous vehicle technology." The Detroit-based automaker said in a news release Honda would work directly with its autonomous vehicle unit -- GM Cruise -- to develop a new self-driving vehicle. This new autonomous vehicle will be "manufactured at high volume for global deployment," according to the release. The two automakers will also "explore global opportunities for commercial deployment of the Cruise network." "This is the logical next step in General Motors and Honda's relationship, given our joint work on electric vehicles, and our close integration with Cruise," GM CEO Mary Barra said in the release. "Together, we can provide Cruise with the world's best design, engineering and manufacturing expertise, and global reach to establish them as the leader in autonomous vehicle technology -- while they move to deploy self-driving vehicles at scale." Seiji Kuraishi, Honda's executive vice president, added in the release that the Japanese automaker shares GM's vision of a "zero-emissions and zero-collision world." He said Honda will complement the Detroit automaker's strengths through its expertise in space efficiency to develop the most effective self-driving car. Honda will reportedly make an immediate investment of $750 million, and then spend an additional $2 billion over the course of the next 12 years. The two automakers are already working together to develop fuel cell vehicles for the North American market. Sam Abuelsamid, a Navigant Research analyst, tells the Associated Press that automakers teaming up like this adds a "layer of safety." "As companies move from the research phase into the production phase, there's a lot of additional complexity that has to be added to those already complex systems," he told A.P. This announcement comes on the heels of a $2.25 billion investment into GM and another $1.1 billion into the GM Cruise division by SoftBank Vision Fund back in May. GM says this investment gives the Japanese technology firm a 19.6 percent equity stake in the Cruise unit, and that his new infusion of cash was aimed at speeding up the mass-scale deployment of "robotaxis" in 2019. With this infusion of nearly $3.5 billion altogether from SoftBank, GM said at the time it would help its Cruise unit reach commercialization by 2019. Late last year, the automaker said it it would launch self-driving vehicles meant for deliveries and ride-hailing services in five U.S. markets in 2019. The Cruise Automation team is currently testing its self-driving Chevy Bolt -- with a human backup -- in Detroit, Phoenix and San Francisco. GM has plans to expand this program into Manhattan sometime in 2018. View this post on Instagram this represents good and America becoming whole again. We will no longer outsource to other countries. We build factories here in America and create jobs. We will provide jobs for all who are free from prisons as we abolish the 13th amendment. Message sent with love ANN ARBOR, MI - The loud horn sound of freight trains passing through Ann Arbor in the middle of the night has been a fact of life for many city residents for many years. Some people like it and find it poetic and beautiful, and yet others don't and consider it a noisy disturbance while they're trying to sleep. Now the city is considering establishing a "quiet zone" in response to concerns voiced by some residents in the Old West Side neighborhood next to downtown and the Northside area off Pontiac Trail. The city is inviting residents to attend a public information meeting from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3, at city hall, 301 E. Huron St., to discuss the city's railroad quiet-zone study. The meeting is expected to include an overview of the Federal Railroad Administration's quiet-zone program, and a discussion of observations at Ann Arbor Railroad crossings and next steps. There also will be an opportunity for questions from the public. City Council Member Chip Smith, who lives about a block from the tracks on the west side of downtown in the Old West Side neighborhood, is encouraging residents to attend. He said he's still waiting to see what the costs will be and what fund matching is available, but he's in favor of the quiet-zone idea, which may require upgrading railroad crossing gates. Smith said public sentiment is about five to one in favor of it and most of the people pushing it are longtime Old West Side residents. On some nights, freight trains pass through at 2 or 3 a.m. going north and then come back south around 6 or 7 a.m., repeatedly blowing their horns to warn they're passing through at-grade crossings. Some actually like the sound, though. "I don't think I'm an anomaly when it comes to loving the late-night sound of train horns," Vicki Honeyman, who lives a couple blocks from the tracks, wrote in a recent email to city officials. "In fact, I've discussed this with a number of people who, like me, find the sound late at night to be a poetic lonely, yet lovely, moan. It evokes in me images of train scenes from old movies and sparks my wandering mind to where I might go if I were on that train traveling through my town." Honeyman said she completely disagrees with the people who want to do away with train horns after dark. "Just as we have lost our night sky to modern blue-glowing street lights that make it no longer possible to see the stars after dark, regulating the train horn takes us one step further from 'nature' being a part of our lives," she wrote. "Train horns as nature? Yes. They are a natural piece of being part of a place and culture, they are a part of our history, and they are absolutely a part of living in a city or in the country. Yes, trains are a part of our lives and so is the beautiful sound they make." The City Council voted in May to approve spending $35,000 to study the issue. That included $24,455 for work to be performed by SRF Consulting, an engineering and design firm, plus an additional $10,545 to cover city staff costs and a contract contingency. Eli Cooper, the city's transportation program manager, told council members in a memo that FRA regulations require sounding a locomotive horn near at-grade street crossings unless they are in an FRA-designated quiet zone. Quiet-zone rules require a safety evaluation and potentially public-safety improvements before any area may be designated a quiet zone. "These improvements could include upgrading crossing gates to four-quadrant systems, which prevent vehicles from bypassing lowered gates, or curb channelization to restrict vehicles to the lane protected with the gate," Cooper wrote in the memo. SRF's scope of work includes data collection based on field observations, coordination with different agencies and stakeholders, professional analysis, a public education effort about quiet zones and a final report with recommended improvement scenarios. Cooper said in May that the city would seek potential sources of funding to design and install the required improvements, but the Michigan Department of Transportation and FRA have a longstanding position that train horns are safety warning devices, so grant funds from those agencies to address a noise nuisance may be limited. A few years ago, a Change.org petition to create a quiet zone in Ann Arbor garnered 50 signatures. "The trains running through our neighborhoods multiple times each day create a piercing horn blast of 130 decibels," the petition stated. "These extremely loud siren-like shrieks at all times of day and night constitute an obnoxious source of noise pollution, creating a public health hazard and diminishing our quality of life. Recent findings by medical researchers regarding the toxic health effects of loud jarring noises point to increased blood pressure, escalation of cardiovascular disease, and sleep deprivation." There also has been chatter about the issue on other online forums such as Reddit. One Reddit user wrote last month, "I recently moved here for grad school and am living basically on the freight train line. Train noises in general don't bother me, but the intense blaring train horn in the middle of the night is quite a disturbance. I really don't want to have to go through the trouble of breaking my lease and moving. A lot of people live on the train line so I'm wondering how people deal with it. I've been wearing ear plugs but they don't really do much." Several people responded, including one who wrote: "I feel your pain. We just moved here from out of state. Yes, we did see the train tracks, but were misled to believe that the train only runs early in the morning like 5, 6am, which would be annoying, but livable for us. "Cut to the train blaring a half block from us multiple times/night 1230, 230, 330. We are not able to sleep through the night. We are now taking steps toward breaking our lease, which is a huge pain, but is better than endless exhaustion and frustration." But not all are as fatigued or annoyed. "I just wanted to write a quick note to tell you that I enjoy the sound of trains in our community at all times of the day and night," Dan Gunning, another Ann Arbor resident, wrote to city officials this week. "In fact, I would miss the sounds of the trains in the middle of the night if they were somehow banned. I like to hear them when I am falling asleep. Also, I am someone who is frequently out after midnight and I appreciate the safety that train horns bring to the roadways." The Ann Arbor Railroad, which is owned by Watco, hasn't yet taken a position on the idea of a quiet zone. Mayor Christopher Taylor said the passage of trains through the city is longstanding, but also longstanding are residents' desires to have train noise mitigated. To the extent that it can be done safely, he said, he's glad the city is making the inquiry. PITTSFIELD TWP., MI - A SWAT operation spread across three counties has led to the arrest of several people connected to the shooting death of a Pittsfield Township man six months ago. Five people were arrested in the Ypsilanti area on Tuesday, Oct. 2, during the operation coordinated by the Pittsfield Township Police Department in connection with the death of Christopher Marsh Jr., according to the Pittsfield Township Police Department. The suspects' names are being withheld as they have not yet been arraigned on charges. Marsh Jr., 19, of Ypsilanti Township was found fatally wounded about 9:30 p.m., April 28, outside Glencoe Hills Apartments complex in the 2100 block of Glencoe Hills Drive. Police were initially called to a robbery with shots fired and one person injured the night of the shooting. Marsh was transported to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, where he died from his injuries. Police believe the shooting was the result of a robbery in a meet-up for narcotics. Over the course of the investigation, police developed several suspects and persons of interest connected to the shooting, police said. Police executed 11 search warrants throughout Washtenaw County, Canton Township and Grand Rapids, arresting eight people in total. One of the suspects was arrested on the Eastern Michigan University campus at the Walton Residence Hall, E. Circle Drive, police said. The university sent an alert to students and staff informing them of the SWAT team being on campus and advised there was no ongoing threat to the community, as the person they were looking for was arrested, according to the notice. Police agencies involved in Tuesday's operation include the Michigan State Police, Ann Arbor Police Department, Ypsilanti Police Department, Eastern Michigan University Police Department, Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office, University of Michigan Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, Homeland Security Investigations CREW Task Force, Drug Enforcement Agency Strike Force, Grand Rapids FBI Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force and the Canton Police Department. BANGOR TWP, MI -- Though a fire has ravaged an area home and made it unlivable, the Bangor Township fire chief said a positive takeaway is that smoke detectors save lives. "The smoke detectors worked, woke up the residents, and they got out safely," said Chief Rob Glenn. The fire at 3680 Lauria Road was reported at 11:56 p.m. on Sept. 30. Firefighters from Bangor and Monitor townships responded to find a single-family residence with an attached garage on fire. Two adult residents made it outside before firefighters arrived. Neither civilians nor firefighters were injured. "There was heavy damage in the garage and nothing was salvageable," Glenn said. "The fire extended into the home, but we stopped it in the house." He added there was not much left of the house's interior with significant damage throughout. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but Glenn said there is nothing suspicious about it. Firefighters put the residents in contact with the American Red Cross "We made sure they were all set before we left," Glenn said. He added that any Bangor Township residents in need of smoke detectors should obtain one by calling the fire station at 989-684-8504. BURTON, MI - Burton police Chief Tom Osterholzer wore a uniform into the office Wednesday. "I came into this department wearing a uniform...and so I wanted to wear a uniform on my last day," he said, during a quiet moment Oct. 3 ahead of a retirement ceremony honoring his more than 27 years with the department. "I was excited my first day. I was intimidated, but I worked with such great people," commented Osterholzer. "I certainly made my mistakes along the way -- and oh to know back then what you know now -- but I think that's part of growing and becoming who you are." Standing in a room full of law enforcement officials, Osterholzer noted he's had the chance to work alongside "some of the most amazing people day in and day out, not just within this awesome police department, but within Genesee County." He thanked several people in the room, from wife Jill, parents Ted and Beverly, Genesee County Sheriff Robert Pickell, Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton, to Cheryl Sclater, a longtime friend and public relations manager at ELGA Credit with whom Osterholzer assisted with a diaper drive, Shop with A Hero, and Pack the Truck events to benefit area children. "He wanted to be on that level as a community person," said Sclater, from taking a knee to speak with a child to serving as board chairman with Weiss Child Advocacy Center, an organization aiding abused children, and helping in the recent merger with Priority Children to form Voices for Children Advocacy Center. She pointed out Osterholzer also showed the same care and concern for his officers. "He always put his policemen and people before him," Sclater said. "It's never been about him." Osterholzer, 49, became an officer in April 1991, working his way up to sergeant in 1998, a lieutenant in 2003, and named the department's new chief in January 2012, succeeding John Benthall. He took over a department in flux, down to 31 officers from a peak of 42 officers in 2008. A U.S. Army Reserve veteran who served in Operation Desert Storm, Osterholzer traveled with other Burton officers in 2005 to New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, which he called one of his proudest moments. But, above all, Osterholzer spoke of the relationships he's made along the way. "I will forever be thankful for that," he said, among the community and within the department which he noted is being left in "outstanding hands" and would not miss a beat with Lt. Mike Odette taking over the position on an interim basis. "I cannot think of a stronger man, a better man to lead our young men and women and to continue to keep this department the amazing police department it is," Osterholzer said. "I'm proud to work alongside him as I am proud to have worked alongside every one of them." Odette said the department was "incredibly lucky" to have Osterholzer as the chief for the past seven years, having led the department through "very thin times" and being instrumental in the passage a 20-year tax levy in 2013 to bolster the figures. "He has been an amazing boss, an incredible mentor for me, and most importantly a great friend," said Odette. Mayor Paula Zelenko thanked Osterholzer, who shared his mutual admiration for her allowing him to lead the department, for his leadership over the years that bled over into other areas of government. "It has been one of the keys to keeping us going," she said. "Tom will look at the whole picture, not just with the police department, but how the department fits in with all the other departments in this city." Osterholzer looks forward to keeping in touch and seeing how the department evolves in the future. "I think the thing I'm excited the most about is to sit back and watch them exceed everything I ever thought we could do... because they're going to do it," he said. But he will miss the department where's grown up over nearly three decades. "When I walk in this door every day, it's awesome. I love going to roll calls. I love being with the guys," said Osterholzer. "Coming to work is a great thing for me and you have no idea what it means to me to be able to leave feeling that way. Everybody here is such a big part of that. I will miss all of you, but you will never be strangers." FLINT, MI - A judge has found there is probable cause that two Flint men shot another man in a June slaying at a Flint apartment complex. Genesee District Judge Jennifer Manley ruled on Wednesday, Oct. 3, that there was probable cause that Tony Hill, 32, and Taquan Pugh, 23, committed murder and other felonies in connection to the June 9 killing of Sherod Lundy. Investigators believe Pugh's girlfriend got into an argument with Lundy and the woman then called Pugh, according to Genesee County Assistant Prosecutor Sam Fleet. Pugh and Hill then confronted Lundy, there was an altercation and the two shoot Lundy, Fleet said during Wednesday's preliminary exam. Officers with the Flint Police Department were dispatched around 6:30 a.m. June 9 to Evergreen Regency Townhomes off Lippincott Boulevard for a report of a shooting. Lundy, 29, was pronounced dead at the scene after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds, police previously said. "There's no ID that my client murdered a guy or shot anybody," said Pugh's attorney Chad Lucia. "There's just no evidence." Hill's attorney Jeffrey Clothier said he had no comment after Wednesday's hearing. There's been no Genesee Circuit Court appearance set for Pugh and Hill. MIDDLEVILLE, MI -- A Middleville water-heater manufacturer has pulled its plan to dilute plumes of toxic chemicals in the Thornapple River after public backlash. Mark Taylor, vice president and general manager at Bradford White Corporation in Middleville, said a request to establish a contamination "mixing zone" in the river was dropped in response to public concerns. "At Bradford White, we are committed to being a good neighbor, a good steward of the environment and listening to our community," Taylor wrote. "We have requested the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality withdraw our mixing zone request so we can take the time to listen to and engage employees, neighbors and other citizens concerned about the Thornapple River." Even though the request was dropped, the DEQ says plumes contaminated with chlorinated solvents continue to discharge into the Thornapple River through polluted groundwater. Bradford White's decision comes two weeks after MLive published a story about the plan and how the public could weigh-in. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality received more than 100 emails and 30 letters about Bradford White's request to allow the discharge so long as dilution is taken into account. The DEQ was going to extend the public comment deadline by a month before the company changed its mind. Most public comments were "not in favor" of Bradford White's mixing zone plan, said Dave Wierzbicki with the DEQ remediation division in Grand Rapids. Presently, toxicant concentration in the Middleville groundwater are above the state's Part 201 environmental cleanup criteria. Bradford White was asking the DEQ to allow a "mixing zone" in the river that would consider dilution of the contamination once that groundwater had discharged into the river. Under a mixing zone designation, discharges would be acceptable so long as concentrations of chlorinated solvents in the river don't exceed acceptable state surface water thresholds, Wierzbicki said. He said DEQ gave Bradford White figures that show the current discharge into the river is likely being diluted enough to be in compliance with state surface water thresholds, and that a mixing zone is unnecessary. "Based on the data we have and the criteria that has been calculated, it doesn't appear there's a risk to public health or the environment," Wierzbicki said. Even though the company pulled its dilution plan, the company still can ask DEQ to approve a compliance plan or a "no further action" request with a mixing zone using that data, he said. Wierzbicki said either avenue would be open to public comment and the DEQ will talk to Bradford White about what happens next. The company's mixing zone application stated the discharge wouldn't degrade the river because it's already happening. According to the application, the "majority" of polluted groundwater is already being captured by a trench and treated by an air stripper system. Middleville Village Manager Duane Weeks said, as of Tuesday, the township had received a handful of calls and emails from people concerned about the dilution plan. Weeks said multiple people didn't know about the contamination or had forgotten about it. The contamination plumes are from degreasers previously used at Bradford White to clean metal parts prior to painting. The chemicals were last used in the mid-1980s. Cleanup began in 2004. Weeks passed along emails from concerned citizens. "I was wondering if there's a way we can stop this?" one unnamed person wrote Weeks. "I just saw it on the news and I think people should have (an) opinion on whether Bradford White (will) have a mixing (zone) in the Thornapple River. I just think it's wrong (because) think of all the people that fish in that river, and if they get exposed to the (chemicals) who knows what would happen to them." Village resident Sarah Turner wrote that she was "outraged." "In regards to the recent news that Bradford White has requested permission to dump carcinogenic matter into the Thornapple River, I am outraged that this is even being considered," Turner wrote. "As a village resident, and as someone who resides in close proximity to the Bradford White facility, I would like to know if the village has taken any action to prevent this from happening and what steps are being taken to ensure the safety of village residents." Weeks previously said he was unaware that Bradford White wanted to continue discharging contaminated water into the river but knew the company was talking with regulators about lowering levels of chlorinated solvents in the groundwater. Based on modeling, Wierzbicki said, the plumes have not affected the village water supply. Middleville water has not been tested for chlorinated solvents. The volatile organic compounds entering the river are vinyl chloride, trichlorethylene (TCE) and ethylene dichloride. The Environmental Protection Agency considers vinyl chloride and trichlorethylene to be carcinogens, and ethylene dichloride a probable carcinogen. Bradford White has tried to remediate the plumes by pumping and treating contaminated water and using bacteria, Wierzbicki said. Pockets of contaminated groundwater remain that are above acceptable levels. The groundwater plumes began underneath the plant and eventually spread west toward the river and south to residential areas of Middleville. A map of eastern Middleville detailing monitoring and extraction well locations as well as portions of the groundwater plumes. Jon Bylsma, an attorney with Varnum Law representing Bradford White, said the company is relying on more than dilution to clean the groundwater. "We've taken significant steps using the latest technology as that technology has been developed and that has significantly remediated this issue on-site," Bylsma said previously. "The idea that Bradford White is just using the river to wash this all away is the opposite of what the data shows and the reality is." At the area where groundwater enters the river, vinyl chloride was detected this year at 62 parts per billion (ppb). Ethylene dichloride was detected at 1,510-ppb and TCE was detected at 830-ppb. Those concentrations are above the state's criteria for contamination at the groundwater-surface water interface (GSI). Wierzbicki said levels of chlorinated solvents in the groundwater have and will continue to decrease with existing cleanup efforts. LANSING, MI -- Enbridge Energy will pay for and build a utility tunnel beneath the Straits of Mackinac to house a new Line 5 oil and gas pipeline and other utility connections, the state announced Wednesday. "The taxpayers of Michigan will benefit greatly from this project but won't have to pay for it," Department of Environmental Quality Director Heidi Grether said in a conference call Wednesday morning, Oct. 3. Grether called the agreement between Gov. Rick Snyder and Enbridge a "common sense solution to a decades-long environmental concern." The tunnel would be drilled through bedrock at depths of about 100 feet beneath the Straits of Mackinac. It would house a new 30-inch Line 5 pipeline and possibly other utility connections. If all goes to plan, the tunnel will be operational sometime between 2025 and 2028. It's estimated to cost Enbridge between $350 million and $500 million. Snyder wants the Mackinac Bridge Authority, the independent state agency which operates the Mackinac Bridge, to own the tunnel and lease space to Enbridge for the company's new pipeline. Enbridge and the bridge authority must still agree to numerous details, including those about construction, maintenance and who pays for minor and major malfunctions of the tunnel infrastructure. "Under the agreement signed today, Enbridge would pay for all design, construction, operation and maintenance of the tunnel for up to 99 years, subject to approvals by the Mackinac Bridge Authority," Snyder wrote in a statement. Enbridge officials in a statement said the agreement is a "commitment to explore" housing Line 5 in a tunnel. "We're committed to doing the work that will make the tunnel and all aspects of the agreement a reality," said Enbridge spokesperson Ryan Duffy. Department of Natural Resources Director Keith Creagh said the state is pushing for this agreement to be completed before Snyder's term in office is over Jan. 1. Creagh said gubernatorial candidates Gretchen Whitmer and Bill Schuette were "briefed" on the agreements. He added that it "wasn't an input conversation." Whitmer opposes the plan, saying that to keep Line 5 running for the next decade or so "poses a serious risk" to the Great Lakes. She has previously called for shutting it down. "It needs to come out of the Straits of Mackinac as soon as possible," Whitmer said in a statement. "Enbridge has deceived the state for years, so it would be foolish for any public official to trust that they won't later seek taxpayer dollars. And it is irresponsible for the state to sign this agreement in the final days of an administration and potentially bind the hands of the next governor for their entire time in office." Schuette, in a release Wednesday, says he supports the tunnel agreement. Creagh said he wasn't sure if the next administration could void Snyder's agreements but did say: "Michigan doesn't need another court case." "By separating the oil and the water, we can all get behind that," he said. A 'worst-case' spill study by Michigan Technological University researchers concluded that Line 5 would gush 2,436,000 gallons of oil, slick 437 miles of Great Lakes shoreline and cost the Canadian company $1.86 billion in damages under a worst-case scenario spill. The new agreement, state officials touted, puts Enbridge on the hook for more than $1.8 billion in spill cleanup costs. Snyder has previously said Line 5 "cannot remain in the Straits indefinitely." To the continued frustration of many environmental advocates, he's resisted calls to shut the aging pipeline down while deliberations about its future take place. "Replacing the dangerous Line 5 pipeline with another risky oil pipeline keeps our Great Lakes in peril of a disastrous oil spill," said Lisa Wozniak, executive director of Michigan League of Conservation Voters "Gov. Snyder's support of a new Great Lakes oil pipeline, an idea proposed by Enbridge Energy themselves, is simply an effort to keep oil pumping through the damaged Line 5 oil pipeline as long as possible, despite the unacceptance risk a rupture poses to our drinking water and Great Lakes way of life." Mike Shriberg, executive director of the National Wildlife Federation's Great Lakes chapter, called any deal without the shutdown of Line 5 in less than a year a "non-starter." "We know that Line 5 is a threat to the Great Lakes and our way of life now whereas a tunnel, if it is ever built, is many years away," Shriberg said. "Michigan doesn't need Line 5. As independent studies show, the small benefits Line 5 provides to our state can be replaced with no noticeable cost to consumers. The communities, businesses, water, and wildlife that would be lost if Line 5 ruptures cannot be replaced." Calls to shut down the 65-year-old twin pipelines were reinvigorated in April when an anchor dented the twin pipelines in three places and "gouged" it in a fourth. Line integrity was not compromised, Enbridge officials said. Composite sleeves were wrapped about the dented portions to strengthen the lines. That work finished the week of July 30, according to Enbridge officials. Under the new agreement, Line 5 will be required to shut down whenever waves hit 6.5 feet for more than an hour in the Straits. The previous agreement required a shutdown during 8-foot waves. High waves add difficulty to any oil spill response. The Line 5 pipeline, built in 1953, runs 645 miles from Superior, Wisconsin, to Sarnia, Canada, and transports up to 540,000 barrels of light crude oil and natural gas liquids per day. OTTAWA COUNTY, MI - Ottawa County voters could give public schools an $11.2 million increase in funding that will help them do everything from adding mental-health support for students to replacing buses. A proposal is on the Nov. 6 ballot for a 0.9 mill, 10-year, regional enhancement millage that would provide an extra $226 in per-student funding. It's a boost school leaders say is needed to make up for inadequate state funding. The owner of a $100,000 home would pay an additional $45 per year, according to the Ottawa Area ISD. Information sessions are being held on the need. "There have been very few years in the last decade that the school-funding model has come anywhere near the cost of living," said Zeeland Superintendent Cal DeKuiper, noting educators appreciate the increase but one year doesn't make up for a decade. "We are all still trying to catch up, including from 2011 when funding was cut $470. These funds would actually provide our students with more mental-health support and ensure our technology-based curriculum stays in place." Hudsonville Superintendent Douglas VanderJagt said the reality is Michigan has not been able to fund public schools as initially intended in 1994 when they ushered in a new funding plan with Proposal A legislation. "This millage is an opportunity for us to maintain and enhance our programming," said VanderJagt, noting they've already had 20 of 40 informational meetings on the issue. "We want to look at mental health awareness, safety and security, updating our bus fleet, and there are always going to be technology needs." Hudsonville's next two information sessions are scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 9, at Baldwin Middle School, at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. The regional millages levied by intermediate school districts provide additional money for local districts. The Kent ISD was the most recent to pass one for $19.9 million to support its 20 districts in 2017. In addition to Kent, Muskegon, Kalamazoo, Wayne, Monroe and Midland all have enhancement millages. DeKuiper said Ottawa County school districts and communities are so overlapping and inter-connective that this is an opportunity to bolster education for all students, rather than being in a competitive situation. No group has filed to oppose the measure, according to Ottawa County Clerks Office. Funding for the 11 Ottawa districts and seven charter schools would be distributed based on school population, ranging from $41,282 to $1.5 million per school system. The 2019 state budget also includes a per-pupil-funding increase of $240 per student for the lowest-funded districts to $7,871 and $120 hike for the highest-funded to $8,409. School leaders cite recent studies they say show Michigan is underfunding districts, including one released in January from the School Finance Research Collaborative that recommended every district receive base funding of $9,590. As a participant on the School Research Finance Collaborative, Holland Superintendent Brian Davis said there are many things that come to mind in how a district like Holland, which serves an increasing number of at-risk students, could use millage funds to support their core mission. Early literacy, mental health, and college and career readiness are among those examples. Holland schools has held multiple community meetings. The next meeting is scheduled for 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 11, in the district administrative offices, located at 320 W. 24th St. Visit district websites to see areas of focus for the additional funds. Below is a breakdown of how the millage would be allocated based on the current enrollment and tax base to the 18 school systems: School Districts Allendale - $600,364 Coopersville - $603,197 Grand Haven - $1.39 million Hamilton - $672,088 Holland - $851,637 Hudsonville - $1.5 million Jenison - $1.1 million Saugatuck - $195,734 Spring Lake - $564, 963 West Ottawa - $1.5 million Zeeland - $1.37 million Charters WEST MICHIGAN -- State police and the state Attorney General's office have executed search warrants at Catholic dioceses across Michigan in relation to the handling of clergy sex abuse allegations. The Diocese of Kalamazoo and the Diocese of Grand Rapids both issued similar statements Wednesday, Oct. 3 to acknowledge the search warrants. Officials with both dioceses say they are cooperating fully. "This was part of a similar process that took place in all Catholic Dioceses in the State of Michigan, and is part of the Attorney General's investigation into the handling of clergy sexual abuse allegations dating back to 1950. As we stated previously, the Diocese stands ready to cooperate in any way that will lead to even greater protection and safeguards of all people, particularly for children and vulnerable adults," according to a statement from the Diocese of Kalamazoo. Leaders in the Diocese of Grand Rapids said the following: "The Diocese of Grand Rapids welcomes and will fully cooperate with the Department of the Attorney General. We welcome them to join us in our efforts of inviting survivors to come forward, a practice that has been in place since 2002." WYOMING, MI -- Several people were injured after a pickup truck struck a parked van outside a Chase Bank building then went through the building. Wyoming Fire Chief Brian Bennett said no pedestrians or people inside the bank were struck directly by the truck, but several people were showered with glass and other debris. The accident happened about 3:20 p.m. Kiera Vandentoorn, 22, was inside the bank opening an account when the truck came barreling through. She was with her young brother. She watched as the truck narrowly missed a customers and a bank manager, then continued out the other side of the building. Vandentoorn said her step-mother, 3-year-old daugjhter and 13-year-old sister were in the van that was struck outside the building. The impact pushed the van into the building. She said her sister was complaining of a possible spinal injury and taken to DeVos Children's Hospital along with her child. She said her daughter just needed to be checked out. Her mother-in-law also was injured and taken to Spectrum Health Butterworth hospital. Police said that two people inside the bank had minor injuries from the debris. The driver of the pickup also was taken to a hospital for his injuries and police say his condition is not known. The cause of the crash is under investigation. OTTAWA COUNTY, MI - A West Ottawa High student who brought a gun to school will undergo a forensic evaluation to determine his competency and criminal responsibility. Davian Joseph Weston, 17, is held on $750,000 bond. Before a scheduled probable-cause hearing on Tuesday, Oct. 2, defense attorney John Moritz sought the forensic examination. "There has been some history of issues that contributed to my decision to request the exam be done," Moritz said outside of Holland District Court. The allegations have been difficult for his client's mother, Stacy Puente. After she left the courtroom, she said it was devastating to see her son in handcuffs. "It's her son - he's 17 years old," Moritz said. "Of course she's emotional." Weston, who turned 17 last month, had a .38-caliber handgun in his backpack while walking between north and south campuses at West Ottawa High School. Ottawa County sheriff's deputies assigned to the school arrested him acting on another student's tip to school officials. The defense contends he didn't intend harm, and that the gun was inoperable. He was free on $5,000 bond when he allegedly produced a rap video that appeared to be a threat to the student who turned him in. Judge Susan Jonas upped his bond to $750,000. She denied Moritz's request that she lower the bond and place him on house arrest, monitored by GPS. Assistant Ottawa County Prosecutor Lee Fisher said Weston had already violated bond conditions with the video. He noted that West Ottawa had to go on lockdown because Weston had the gun. "It's a very traumatic experience for people that work at school and students," Fisher said. KENT COUNTY, MI - In a pilot project, West Michigan Therapy Dogs will provide support dogs to help children involved in the Kent County court system. "We've wanted a program like this in Kent County for years, and I believe it will make going to court so much better for the kids who need to be here, whether they are involved in a criminal case or a custody dispute," Kent County Circuit Judge Kathleen Feeney said. She said she has worked with West Michigan Therapy Dogs before and thinks they will be a "perfect fit." The therapy dogs - there are 22, along with their handlers - will work at the Kent County Courthouse downtown, and at 63rd District Court on East Beltline Avenue NE near Knapp Street, to begin with. They are intended to offer comfort to children and vulnerable adults who are testifying or talking with prosecutors. Therapy dogs have been used in other court systems and help provide a distraction for children in stressful situations. "The biggest problem we had here is the number of different courts, and different court locations that we may have to cover on a specific day," Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker said. "Working with West Michigan Therapy Dogs is the best way to solve this problem, and I don't think there is a partnership quite like this anywhere in the State of Michigan." The dogs are trained to work in courtrooms but will mostly be with young victims before and after they go to court. Proponents say that calming young victims and witnesses will help improve memory and provide more accurate testimony. The volunteer therapy teams have undergone training at both courts involved in the project. One of the therapy dogs has already been used with a child in court. Becker said he hoped that therapy dogs would eventually be available in all Kent County courts. Two businesses are expanding in West Michigan after receiving state grants. Arcanum Alloys, which produces 20-ton coils for manufacturers, announced it's moving its headquarters from Sunnyvale, California, to Kentwood, bringing with it 25 high-tech jobs and a $693,000 capital investment. The company is in the process of moving into its new location at 4460 44th Street SE. The average hourly wage for its jobs, which require advanced degrees and focus on research and development, is $105. Arcanum currently has seven employees, but expects to hire the remaining 18 within about two years, said David Keifer, vice president of sales. Meanwhile, West Michigan Compounding in Greenville announced it would invest $6 million on a 41,000-square-foot expansion that's expected to create at least 33 full-time jobs. The company currently employs about 74 people. The announcements were made by The Michigan Economic Development Corporation and The Right Place, a Grand Rapids economic development group. Both companies received performance-based grants from the MEDC, which will be paid out over a three-year period if job-creation goals are met. Arcanum's grant totaled $162,500, while West Michigan Compounding's amounted to $150,000. In its application for the state grant, Arcanum said that in addition to Michigan, it was exploring relocating its headquarters to Ohio, Tennessee and northern Indiana, among other areas. The company said it wanted to be closer to suppliers, production partners and customers. West Michigan Compounding, which is expected to break ground on its expansion later this month, said it needs the public assistance to ensure its expansion happens in Michigan. It said it was exploring locations in Indiana and Kentucky, where transportation and logistics costs would be lower. The company, which compounds and recycles plastic scrap, says it has outgrown its existing 25,000-square-foot facility. LANSING, MI - To control the Michigan House or the Senate, Democrats don't just need one big victory. They need nine. That's the number of seats Democrats would need to flip in the House and the Senate to get control of the chambers, which they've been in the minority of for years. Flipping eight seats in either chamber would result in joint control. Proportionally, it's a much bigger lift in the Senate, which has 38 members. In the House, where 110 seats are up, it's considered more attainable. "Everything makes me feel confident that we've got a shot at doing it," said Kevin Hertel, Michigan House Democrats' campaign co-chair. But Republicans, who have controlled the House since 2011 and the Senate since 1985, are fighting hard to keep their majorities in both chambers. Their main message is results while they've been in control. "Republicans in Michigan have, by every available metric, delivered results for Michigan families," said Michigan Republican Party Deputy Chief of Staff and Communications Director Sarah Anderson. Republicans control the House with 63 seats to the Democrats' 46 seats. One seat is vacant due to the resignation of Andy Schor, but in the heart of Lansing is considered a safe Democratic seat. The nine seats needed to gain control of the chamber are within reach, said Kevin Hertel, and it's possible they get even more. "I believe 10 or 11 seats isn't out of the realm of possibility," he said. In the Senate, that majority would be much harder for Democrats to attain. Since 2011 Republicans have had a two-thirds supermajority in the Senate. Senate Democrats in recent years have dwindled to 10 of the chamber's 38 members, with one vacancy in what is considered a safe Democratic district. But Democrats are hopeful they can gain ground in the long-Republican chamber this cycle. "I think we have amazing opportunity to pick up seats," said Sen. Curtis Hertel, D-East Lansing, who is leading campaign efforts for Democrats in the Senate. He said the projections are that Democrats would pick up four to five seats, something he said would be the largest gain in Michigan history. And he's not ruling out picking up the nine they would need to obtain a majority, saying there's enough seats in play that "majority is not off the table." But Sen. Mike Shirkey, R-Clarklake, finance chair for the Senate Republicans' campaign efforts, dismissed that idea as "impossible." He said every race comes down to candidates, and while maintaining a supermajority may not be probable, Senate Republicans are in a good position going into November. "That's why I'm so optimistic, because we have outstanding candidates across the board," Shirkey said. The state House and Senate races happen in conjunction with mid-terms on the national level. John Chamberlin, professor emeritus of public policy at the University of Michigan's Gerald R Ford School of Public Policy, said the effects of midterm elections on congressional races is well-established; the party of the incumbent president is at a slight disadvantage. But, he said, he'd never seen a study of whether that effects state legislative races. Michigan Democratic Party spokesman Paul Kanan said President Donald Trump and the national political scene are affecting turnout and races up and down the ticket. "People are angry. People are motivated. And whether it's Democrats, independents, or from what we've seen a number of Republicans, they're ready to make their voices heard," Kanan said. Shirkey said that the party not in power gets a little bit of a boost, in his observation, but he doesn't see the 'blue wave' Democrats have predicted. He said the case Republicans are making to voters is simple. "All they have to do is look at their kids and grandkids. And ask themselves the question are my kids and grandkids safer and are they richer for more opportunities than a decade ago? And the answer is yes, so why would we want to change that trajectory?" he said, pointing to an improved economy and increased school spending. Democrats, meanwhile, are focused on issues like prescription drug cost, health care, education and access to safe drinking water. "We're looking at issues that we feel the current leadership just has not focused on and in fact has threatened," Kevin Hertel said. Republicans are pointing to the results under their leadership. "Democrats' message is that they are not the party of the President. That isn't a vision for the future and it isn't a plan," said Anderson of the MRP. "It is resistance for its own sake and we are confident that voters will see through it and return a Republican majority in both chambers." All 110 House seats and 38 Senate seats are up in the Nov. 6 election. Michigan residents who waited all summer for the Environmental Protection Agency to set up a hearing about PFAS contamination in the state will finally get a chance to face the federal government. But only a select few will get to speak. Invitations went out late Tuesday afternoon to 18 people as the EPA organizes the event promised in late September during a U.S. Senate subcommittee hearing, according to a copy of the email. But contrary to the other events held in five U.S. cities from June through early September, this meeting's agenda does not include public comment about the contamination by the "forever chemicals" linked to cancer that are contaminating drinking water, along with lakes, rivers and fish across the state. And it comes with just days' notice. "If they were really interested in our input, some time would have been given to organize that participation," said Cathy Wusterbarth, leader of Need Our Water in Oscoda. "This seems like a calculated strategy to reduce input and participation." The event will take place from 1-3 p.m. Friday at the Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 2900 Lake St.. It will be led by three officials: Cathy Stepp, regional administrator for the EPA; Peter Grevatt, director of the EPA's Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water; and Carol Isaacs, director of Michigan's PFAS Action Response Team. Grevatt announced the plan to travel to Michigan during the Senate hearing, something that caught many in the state by surprise. Earlier plans to bring the EPA to Michigan during its community engagement tours - during a time when the agency weighs setting enforceable standards for PFAS - fell apart, apparently amid disagreements over location and meeting format between the state and federal government. No details were made available about the EPA's plans for several days after Grevatt's comments. Public announcements are pending, said Molly Block, EPA spokesperson. The panelists leading the discussion will offer remarks on three areas: Identifying PFAS; Communicating PFAS; and Identifying Solutions to PFAS. According to the agenda, roundtable participants will discuss the panelists' remarks after each session. The invitation list includes officials from Parchment, Cooper Township and Kalamazoo County, where the city of Parchment's water system was shut down in July within hours of the state learning about high levels of PFAS reaching residents. Other organizations or community groups invited include the American Water Works Association Michigan Section, Michigan Manufacturers Association, Anglers of the Au Sable, Michigan Environmental Council, Demand Action, Lake Margrethe Property Owners Association and Concerned Citizens for Responsible Remediation (CCRR). Wusterbarth, whose group is watching PFAS contamination spread from the closed Wurthsmith Air Force Base, can't attend due to long-scheduled travel. Jen Carney, formerly of Demand Action in West Michigan, also is frustrated by the last-minute scheduling. Most people work during the day, she said, so an evening event would allow more participation. Carney lives near the former Wolverine World Wide dump on House Street in northern Kent County, where she learned she was among many people drinking highly contaminated water. She won't be able to attend to tell her story. "You're put in this situation where you have no control over anything that's happening to you," she said. "It's just another thing. Why did they have to do it at this inconvenient time?" Block said the meeting was finalized with the help of ongoing conversations with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, the state's Congressional delegation and community advocates who've been raising concerns about PFAS. U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, "has been a leader on this and vocal in making this happen," Block said. He and U.S. Reps. Debbie Dingell and Tim Walberg jointly urged the EPA to make the trip following a Congressional hearing early this month. The DEQ, meanwhile, repeatedly said that an EPA summit in Michigan would be determined by the federal agency and that it wasn't actively participating. "I have not been involved in any discussions with EPA HQ or Region V related to the EPA visits," Isaacs wrote in an email copied to an MLive reporter on Thursday afternoon before the agenda including her participation was distributed. "I have always assumed and supported EPA coming to Michigan. "The EPA visit is entirely their visit," she wrote. "They are in control of the date (already announced), the time, the place, the format and the people invited. I do expect the State to be invited to these meetings." Could today's concerns about PFAS have been alleviated if Michigan had acted sooner on a 2012 report that warned about the potential impact across the state? Two state representatives say that's possible as they push for the Auditor General to examine whether state officials responded appropriately to early warnings about the 'forever chemicals' that are present in the drinking water of at least 1.5 million residents. Democratic state Reps. Winnie Brinks and Kevin Hertel called for the move on Wednesday, saying that staff in the MDEQ had flagged the dangers and likely path of PFAS in the state - only to have the 93-page report left unaddressed for six years. Over that time, the contaminants were discovered in public drinking water sources and private wells, while tracking shows the chemicals moving into Michigan's surface waters and the Great Lakes. The report came to light as part of an MLive.com investigation that was published in July. In it, DEQ staff warned about shockingly high PFAS levels in fish and documented pollution in the Great Lakes, rivers and wildlife, saying they "indicate a significant exposure to Michigan citizens and ecosystems." Many other PFAS sites were waiting to be discovered, it said. Since then, the per- and polyfluorcarbon substances have escalated as a state and national concern, with a recent Senate subcommittee hearing underscoring public concerns and hopes for national regulatory standards. And in 2017, Michigan officials, led by Republican Gov. Rick Snyder, set up a multi-agency PFAS response team as more contaminated sites were discovered in West Michigan. Since then, the state has been testing all public water supplies among a massive push to define contamination. "Much of this crisis could have been avoided if action has been taken sooner," Hertel said during a press briefing with Brinks. That's a contention the DEQ argues. "Allegations that the state ignored warnings about PFAS in 2012 are false," said Scott Dean, DEQ spokesperson. Dean said the staff described the report as "brain-storming" and added that many of the recommendations in the report were not feasible or enforceable at the time given the lack of knowledge and regulation regarding PFAS. The request to audit the DEQ response to the 2012 report comes from a pair of Democrats who said they're frustrated by the politicization of PFAS in state government. Forty-two other Democrats signed the request. Brinks initiated a bill in 2017 to set a 5 parts per trillion (ppt) standard for drinking water in Michigan. That would be the lowest in the U.S. However, that bill hasn't come moved from the House Natural Resources Committee - an issue that Brinks and Hertel criticized on Wednesday. Along with frustration over the lack of debate on the drinking water bill is concern about the lack of accountability in the DEQ on the 2012 report's warning, she said. "No one know why this was ignored," Brinks said. "That is not sufficient." With the request to the Auditor General, Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) and Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores) are turning back to the 2012 report for action. They'd previously requested a House oversight hearing, but Republican leadership instead said in early September that it was focusing on statewide PFAS testing and other initiatives. The inaction on the report allowed "the crisis to fester and finally implode," Brinks said. The Auditor General's office reviews activities and programs not included in the scope of scheduled audits, including at the request of legislators. When the office receives such a request, it determines the scope and timing of the review. Some take several months. Meanwhile, Michigan's PFAS effort continues with Snyder signing an order early this week to develop a plan to expedite responses when the contaminant is discovered. That will systematize how the state addresses emergencies, such as in summer 2018 when it received test results showing high levels of the chemical in the city of Parchment's water supply. Under the order, the DEQ director will establish eligibility criteria and make funding decisions based on the appropriations for PFAS initiatives made in the 2017 budget. They include: $11.8 million for remediation and response activities; more than $5 million for lab expansion across departments for PFAS testing; and $1.5 million for community water sampling. The federal Environmental Protection Authority also is visiting the state this week, after an earlier visit during its community engagement tour didn't materialize. EPA officials will meet in Kalamazoo on Friday afternoon for a roundtable panel discussion. The event is open to the public, but public comment is not on the agenda. MLive asked Michigan residents this summer how they would be voting on the recreational marijuana ballot proposal Nov. 6. The proposal would legalize possession and consumption of marijuana for adults 21 and up, and would charge the state with launching a licensing system for businesses. Many of the people MLive talked to knew someone who used marijuana for medicinal purposes, which has been legal in Michigan since 2008. As it remains federally illegal, marijuana is a touchy subject -- and some were afraid to speak their opinions for fear of repercussions at work. Ensuring there would be enough regulations in place to control the market and to keep marijuana products away from children were top priorities for Michigan residents. Keeping roadways safe and enforcing driving laws were also concerns. The concerns Michiganders voiced were similar to those MLive heard in Oregon, where recreational marijuana has been legal since 2015. MLive reporter Amy Biolchini and multimedia specialist Tanya Moutzalias traveled to Portland, Oregon, this September to see how their recreational marijuana program has been working. Here is what Oregon residents have to say about whether they think their state is better off with legal recreational marijuana. -- Amy Biolchini is the marijuana beat reporter for MLive. Contact her with questions, tips or comments at abiolch1@mlive.com. Read more from MLive on this issue. Asked about a proposal to legalize marijuana at a taping of WKAR's Off The Record Wednesday, notoriously sober rocker Ted Nugent said he was "hardcore" against it. "I have stepped over so many dead bodies who tried to convince me that smoking dope was a victimless crime," Nugent said. He's turned it down from Jimi Hendrix, Bon Scott from ACDC and Keith Moon from The Who, he said. "I was unhip because I wouldn't, I guess, drool and puke and then die," he said. He said he has witnessed the destruction of the best talents in the world, who go from brilliant to stumbling idiots or dead. "When you're high you cannot make a positive, meaningful, intelligent decision," he said. Michigan voters will decide whether to legalize recreational marijuana by voting on a ballot proposal in the Nov. 6 election. Nugent does support medical marijuana, he said, as a way to alleviate suffering for somebody in medical need. He was on the show to talk about Michigan politics, something he's retained an interest in after moving to Texas. And he's not impressed by the current leadership, which he referred to as RINOs, or Republicans in name only. "God bless Rick Snyder, but he's not a real Republican," Nugent said. Part of what's wrong with Gov. Rick Snyder is that he makes too many compromises, Nugent said, and is not absolute about the constitution. Snyder spokesperson Ari Adler was dismissive of Nugent's comments. "When you have made the tough decisions that led to a state with the lowest unemployment rate in 18 years and a comeback story like Detroit's, I don't think it matters how professional entertainers want to label you," Adler said. Nugent's interest in Michigan politics is longstanding. After toying with the idea of running for office himself and deciding against it, he's gotten involved through endorsing candidates. Most notably he's been supporting Republican gubernatorial candidate Bill Schuette, including through joint public appearances. Other Michigan politicians he mentioned on the show were Republican U.S. Senate candidate John James, who he supports, and Republican Attorney General candidate Tom Leonard, who he said was a real Republican. Nugent's endorsements bring rock star status to Michigan political races, but also political baggage. He's been accused of, among other things, being anti-Semitic, calling survivors of the Parkland shooting 'liars,' disrespecting Native Americans and dodging the draft. All of those things are untrue, he said when asked about them in his TV appearance today. He called the story about his dodging the draft - which came from him, in an interview he gave in 1977 -- "fake news from hell." Nugent also spoke about President Donald Trump, who he supports. He applauded his recent renegotiation of a trade deal with Canada and Mexico and said divisiveness in the country wasn't Trump's fault. "The divisiveness isn't a result of Donald Trump. Donald Trump is a result of the divisiveness. I like division between good and stupid and good and bad," Trump said. Watch the full show with his appearance below: In U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow's latest campaign ad, Kent County Farm Bureau President and farm owner Jim May says he supports the longtime incumbent because she's different than other politicians he's met. "She's concerned about people, jobs, and what's going on in the state of Michigan," he said. "Take it from me, I'm a Republican." First elected to the U.S. Senate in 2000, the Lansing Democrat has built a formidable coalition of support over time, much of which hinges on her popularity among Michigan's agricultural community. As a group, farmers have generally trended conservative nationwide. A 2015 study from Verdant Labs of the average political affiliations of professions culled from Federal Election Commission contribution data estimated there are 28 Democrats for every 72 Republicans in the farming and forestry industry. For the most part, that's held true in Michigan. The Michigan Farm Bureau's AgriPac Committee - the endorsing arm of the state's largest general farm organization - endorsed a slew of Republicans at the state and local level this cycle, including gubernatorial candidate Bill Schuette, who served as director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture from 1991 to 1994. The bureau also endorsed attorney general candidate Tom Leonard, secretary of state candidate Mary Treder Lang and 11 Republican Congressional candidates. When it came to the U.S. Senate race, however, Michigan Farm Bureau President Carl Bednarski praised Stabenow's bipartisan approach to crafting wide-ranging farm legislation on the Senate Agriculture Committee, her advocacy for farm-to-school programs and work on other agricultural priorities. The bureau also endorsed Stabenow in 2012. "Sen. Stabenow has fought hard to make sure the Farm Bill reflects the needs of Michigan agriculture, including our specialty crop growers," he said in a statement. "She has also been a champion for Michigan agricultural exports, and has cautioned trade negotiators to be mindful of uncertainty that their trade policies are creating." The Stabenow campaign has also picked up endorsements from the Michigan Milk Producers Association, the Michigan AgriBusiness Association, the Michigan Corn Growers Association, the Michigan Sugar Company, Potato Growers of Michigan, the Michigan Apple Association, the Michigan Vegetable Council, the Cherry Marketing Institute and the Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association. Stabenow's opponent, Farmington Hills businessman and veteran John James, says he still believes he can make significant inroads among farmers, comparing the endorsements she's received to Democratic support from union groups in 2016 despite President Donald Trump's appeal among the working class. "These organizations don't necessarily represent everyone who's a part of these organizations," James said. "The farmers who I've talked to have been disappointed by what Sen. Stabenow has supported, both economically and socially. "I believe that I present a longer term and much more viable solution, both for their consciences and their wallets," he continued. James obtained endorsements from the Michigan Cattlemen's Association and former Michigan Farm Bureau President Wayne Wood, who said when endorsing James that he has a "willingness to listen and learn about agriculture and because of his values; faith and family, God and country, and putting service before himself." Stabenow chalked up her support among the farming community to her decades of experience serving on agriculture committees at both the state and federal level and bringing back successes for Michigan residents. She's currently the ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, and in 2014 spearheaded the Farm Bill as committee chair, bringing then-President Barack Obama to East Lansing to sign it. "Our dairy farmers have had a tough time over the last couple of years - I was able to get significant support in the Appropriations Committee for them. When we've had rules and regulations that have been tough for growers, I've been able to weigh in in a common sense way to support them," she said. "This is about being grounded in Michigan, and it's about the ability to get things done." The current Farm Bill expired at the end of September, and House and Senate leadership has yet to come to a consensus on major differences between their plans. One of the sticking points in the ongoing discussions is whether the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, should be adjusted to require work requirements for food stamp assistance to low income adults. The Senate version, which passed 86-11, would maintain existing work requirements while the House version passed by Republicans would require SNAP participants between ages 18-59 to work at least 20 hours a week or participate in a job training program for 20 hours a week, with exceptions for disabled people or those raising a child under 6. The House bill also changes existing SNAP eligibility criteria and would shift some funding into work and job training programs. President Donald Trump, who endorsed James in the Michigan Senate race, has accused Stabenow and other Democrats of holding up the process to the detriment of U.S. farmers. But Jim Byrum, president of the Michigan Agri-Business Association, said many Michigan farmers appreciate the experience Stabenow brings to the table when agricultural issues come up at the federal level. Stabenow has a deep understanding of issues facing the agricultural community and keeps a long-term view when considering what Michigan farmers need, tendencies that the industry has come to respect and trust, Byrum said. "The bottom line is that Debbie has been very engaged with agriculture, very engaged at the local level with Michigan commodities, Michigan issues, Michigan-related opportunities," he said. "Debbie's been at it for a long time, and it bears fruit." JACKSON, MI - A Jackson man shot multiple times in front of a downtown Jackson store a week ago has died. Jazzrell Witherspoon, 19, died Saturday, Sept. 29, after succumbing to injuries he suffered in a Sept. 26 shooting in front of Frank's Finer Foods, 418 First St., Jackson Director of Police and Fire Services Elmer Hitt said. Witherspoon was walking north on First Street near the intersection of W. Franklin Street in front of the store at about 9:58 p.m. when a dark-colored SUV approached and opened fire, police said. Witherspoon was shot multiple times and the SUV fled the scene, traveling south, police said. Police recovered multiple shell casings from the scene, Jackson Police Lt. Adam Williams said. Police do not believe this was a random shooting, he said. No arrests have been made and the shooting remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Jackson Police Detective Richard Burkart at 517-768-8770 or Crime Stoppers of Mid-Michigan at 855-840-7867. JACKSON, MI - Legalization of recreational marijuana is up for the people to decide next month, but Jackson County's Board of Commissioners wants residents to know where it stands now. The board voted 7-1 at its Tuesday, Oct. 2 meeting in favor of a resolution opposing the passage of the statewide ballot initiative in the Nov. 6 general election. Daniel Mahoney, the lone Democrat on the board of Republicans, was the only no vote. Commissioners listened to a presentation from Jackson County Prosecutor Jerry Jarzynka - who's already taken a formal position against legalizing recreational marijuana. Jarzynka spoke about the effects of marijuana in other states and his personal experience with those affected by the drug and what it can lead to. "I've met a lot of people who are addicted to opioids," Jarzynka said. "One of the things that's a common denominator is that they started out with marijuana as a teenager. I know you hear studies that it's not a gateway drug, but my personal opinion - and I'm on the battlefield fighting this fight - is that's what I've seen." Legalization won't free up time for law enforcement, Jarzynka said, as searching out marijuana users is not a high priority in his office. "We are not going out and going after people with marijuana," Jarzynka said. "People get charged with marijuana possessions because, it's a traffic stop and a police officer has to notice that and has to charge that." Mahoney argued the board should hear from professionals from both sides of the issue. The resolution cites statistics about teen addiction, marijuana-impaired driving deaths and the increase in potency in marijuana. "I can't fathom not knowing - if this passes - if the people that your grandchildren are around are users of marijuana. How could you ever trust that?" said Commissioner and Columbia Township Police Chief David Elwell. "There's no amount of tax dollars, in my mind, that would make it appropriate for us to adopt." Elwell added he sees "no good coming from this," and his constituents should know that when they head to the polls. Cities, townships and villages can opt out of allowing marijuana facilities within their borders, if approved - but cannot supersede state law and recriminalize the drug. Counties cannot limit or ban marijuana facilities, per the initiative language. The county resolution does not take a stand on medical marijuana, which voters approved in Michigan in 2008. For medical marijuana, municipalities must opt-in to allow facilities. Three townships have done so in Jackson County - Leoni, Parma and Pulaski townships. Parma and Pulaski townships limit the number of facilities allowed by type, while Leoni Township only limits the number of dispensaries. City of Jackson voters decriminalized the possession of 1 ounce of marijuana or less in 2013. The proposal passed with more than 60 percent of voters in support. Dozens of groups across the state are opposing the legalization of recreational marijuana, including Drug Free Jackson - which is hosting a town hall on Thursday, Oct. 4 to discuss the issue. JACKSON, MI -- One man is in custody after a police chase ended in a Jackson High School parking lot. Officers from the Jackson Narcotics Enforcement Team attempted to stop the man near First and Franklin streets about 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3, when he fled in a Ford SUV, said Michigan State Police Detective Lt. Derrick White, who leads JNET. Stop sticks were used to try to slow the vehicle, resulting in a flat tire, White said. The vehicle pulled through the circle drive on the east side of the high school and could not get by school buses waiting for dismissing students. The suspect fled on foot and was apprehended after dumping a bag of methamphetamine in the parking lot, White said. Jackson High School security personnel assisted in apprehension. Jackson Fire Department personnel washed down the parking lot after the incident. "This has absolutely nothing to do with Jackson High," White said. Jackson Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Beal said he is grateful to the Jackson Police Department and JNET for keeping the community safe and that it is unfortunate that things from the community sometimes spill onto a high school campus. Beal also praised the reaction of the school security and staff. "We are grateful no one was hurt," Beal said. "And a bad guy was taken off the streets." The suspect was lodged in the Jackson County Jail with what White says will be multiple felony charges. The Jackson Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff's Office and Michigan State Police assisted at the scene. JACKSON, MI - Residents were invited to have a cup of coffee and a friendly chat with Jackson-area law enforcement officers Wednesday morning. In the continuing effort to break down barriers in the community, the Jackson Police Department hosted "Coffee with a Cop," from 8 to 10 a.m. Oct. 3 at The Junkyard Dog, 128 W. Michigan Ave., in downtown Jackson. Officers with the Jackson Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff's Office, Blackman-Leoni Public Safety Department and Michigan State Police talked with residents and listened to their concerns. The yearly event also helps people get to know the individual officers who patrol their neighborhoods. TEXAS TOWNSHIP, MI -- Seven people are campaigning to become the next leaders of Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Incumbent Susan Miller will face Dawn DeLuca, Paul Foust, Derl Oberlin, Greg Vlietstra, Julia Beck and Scott Zondervan, all competing for election to three seats on the Kalamazoo Valley Community College Board of Trustees. Current trustees Chris Schauer and Ken Young are not seeking reelection. This year, MLive Media Group partnered with the League of Women Voters of Michigan Education Fund to provide candidate information and other voting resources to our readers. Each candidate was asked to answer a series of questions about their policy stances. Information on all state and federal races and many of Michigan's county and local races will be available at Vote411.org. Candidate Julia Buck, 28, and incumbent Susan Miller did not respond to the questionnaire. Miller, 61, is the current secretary of the board. She has served on the board since 2003. DeLuca, 40, is a Health Career Pathways coordinator for the WMU Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, she said in her response. She holds a bachelor degree in music education from Florida State University and a masters degree from Western Michigan University. She worked as a teacher for Battle Creek Public Schools for 12 years and sits on boards for the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre and the Kalamazoo Literacy Council. Foust, 30, is a substitute teacher with bachelor and masters degrees from Western Michigan, he said in the questionnaire. He is serving as a trustee for the Richland Township Board and is a member of the Village of Richland Planning Commission. He unsuccessfully ran for a seat on the KVCC board in 2014, and during the August 2018 election season, he withdrew his name from the 63rd District State House race. Oberlin, 61, is currently a donor services manager for the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, his questionnaire response said. He holds a bachelors degree in finance from Ohio State University. He formerly served on the KVCC board from 2007 to 2014 and has 35 years of volunteer experience in Kalamazoo County, he said. He listed time with Friendship Village Board of Directors, the Food Bank of South Central Michigan, Kalamazoo Valley Museum Community Advisory Council, Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan and Planned Parenthood of Michigan. Vlietstra, 43, is the deputy director of support services at the Central County Transportation Authority, he said. He earned a masters of business administration from the University of Phoenix after earning a masters degree from Western Michigan University and a bachelors from Hope College. He listed 18 years of public service with city and county government, K12 education and public transit. He is also a former KVCC student, he said. Zondervan, 58, has 15 years as a college instructor and finance director, he said in his questionnaire response. He holds a masters degree in finance and applied economics from Western Michigan University and a bachelors degree in business administration from Calvin College, he said. Why are you running for a board seat? What strengths or talents especially qualify you for that role? DAWN DELUCA I am running for a board seat because I am passionate about educators, students and our community. I believe that the unique set of skills that I bring as an experienced urban educator will provide a necessary voice to the KVCC Board of Trustees. Teachers need to be at the table when there are decisions being made surrounding education. PAUL FOUST I am running for KVCC Trustee because I am concerned about the direction the college is taking. The college continues to expand its footprint within the community, despite doing very little to address declining enrollment. I would call that a cause for alarm and evidence of poor fiscal stewardship at the college. I have experience in crafting municipal budgets that will allow me to excel on the Board of Trustees. DERL OBERLIN I chose to run because well over 100 years of experience has recently left the Board with death of Mrs. Whitten, as well as Mr. Schauer's and Mr. Young's decisions not to run. New perspectives are most welcome and needed; institutional knowledge is also important for developing the path for the college's future. I am open-minded and will provided seasoned Board leadership, sharing business and non-profit experiences in diverse organizations, and a full understanding of budgeting challenges of balancing tuition costs with program expansion, fair employee/staff pay, expense controls, and facility maintenance. GREG VLIETSTRA With over 18 years of public service leadership with city government, county government, K-12 education, and public transit, I have experience and skills that can contribute to the work already in motion by the KVCC Board of Trustees, its faculty, and employees. Further, I'm a former full-time student at KVCC before earning two masters degrees. I have the endorsement of numerous elected officials - both Democrats and Republicans including State Senator Tonya Schuitmaker, State Representative Dave Maturen, County Drain Commissioner Patricia Crowley, City of Portage Mayor Patricia Randall, and Kalamazoo County Board Vice Chair Dale Shugars. SCOTT ZONDERVAN My experience as a College Instructor and Finance Director will provide a common sense approach to the Board at KVCC. If elected, what are your top two priorities for the coming year? How will you strive to address them? DAWN DELUCA 1 . My top priority is to advocate for all KVCC educators. I believe wholeheartedly that the supported and valued educators provide the most inspired instruction. Quality, creative instruction is the key to student success and developing life long learners. I would address this issue by recommending various avenues for assuring the voices of all KVCC educators are heard, and their concerns are addressed appropriately and timely. 2. My second priority would be to support the success of all students, by advocating for programs and services to help all students achieve degree and credential attainment. PAUL FOUST 1. Institute a two-year freeze on tuition rates and fee schedules to give the college a proper motivation to help keep costs down. 2. A systematic review of all programs that KVCC offers, especially "niche" programs like wind technology and culinary arts, to see if continuing such programs is in the best interests of the students and the taxpayers. DERL OBERLIN Tuition affordability and shepherding new/relevant career academies/certifications/programs are my priorities. The quality of education, due to quality instructors and relevant program paths provided make KVCC a premier educational option for students of all skill levels and diverse backgrounds and current circumstances especially time available for classes. Career academies/certification/program expansion provide innovative instruction opportunities that target real job opportunities with time-line completion options. The Food Innovation, Wind Energy Turbine Tech, and the Brewing Tech programs became realities during my previous tenure. GREG VLIETSTRA I want to partner with President Marshall Washington, his administration, and the board to give them the support and tools needed to achieve organizational goals and initiatives. As President Washington recently told mlive, specific goals are still being developed. Nonetheless, two priorities I see from a distance are 1) maintaining and enhancing the value of the education received and 2) furthering the partnership with the broader community. It's important to keep the quality up for both the students as well as the taxpayers. SCOTT ZONDERVAN To help increase enrollment and expand vocational training. Both of these are needed today. Increased enrollment is needed to keep KVCC a healthy institution and expanded vocational training is needed for the work force in Western Michigan. Are you satisfied with how well KVCC is supporting local economic vitality and stability through development of a skilled workforce? Explain why or what more should be done. DAWN DELUCA I have been impressed with the efforts KVCC has made in the areas of economic development through creating opportunities for students to explore a wide variety of post-secondary academic and vocational career paths. I think the next logical step would be to increase exposure to all careers during K-12 years, including in house career pathway/pipeline programming in middle and high schools. PAUL FOUST The college has expanded too far too fast, leaving it in a very vulnerable position. KVCC offers many trade/vocational programs, but there is more that can be done. KVCC focuses too much on being a "feeder" school for WMU and not enough on pushing employment-upon-graduation programs like automotive technology, plumbing, carpentry, and electrical engineering. DERL OBERLIN KVCC can always do more to support local economic vitality. Since its inception, it continues to support local economic vitality as evidenced by its physical expansion from the Main Texas Township Campus to 7 sites. KVCC's expansion of instructional opportunities for its current students and its diverse graduates/certificate holders enrich the local workforce and feed area 4-year colleges. It is important to continue to improve offerings, expand outreach, and continue traditions of this fine institution. As a representative of the community, I pledge my efforts on the Board towards this end. GREG VLIETSTRA Yes, however, more should continue to be done. The college should further promote and support the types of jobs that come with an Associate Degree - particularly the trade skills in high demand. SCOTT ZONDERVAN We need to expand the vocational training at KVCC more. This means creating partnerships with local area businesses to determine what their employment needs are and training requirements. What steps should board members take to establish a productive relationship with the new college president? DAWN DELUCA I believe all board members should open the lines of communication with Dr. Washington, and begin to establish positive, productive relationships. It is through these relationships and engaging healthy dialogue that we will ignite creativity and unite all stakeholders to share and embrace a common vision. PAUL FOUST President Washington was selected by the Board of Trustees because they felt he could help the college achieve its goals and objectives. Board members have an obligation to Mr. Washington to keep the lines of communication open and listen to his input. Ultimately it is the Board of Trustees that sets the overall vision for the college, but they should seek information from all quality sources, including students, faculty, and employees. DERL OBERLIN My goal in working with Dr. Washington is to share my institutional knowledge and community experience as well as to support his vision for the future of KVCC, helping to ensure the availability of affordable, quality education in our community, including the expansion of career academies, certifications and vital job training. GREG VLIETSTRA I want to be a board member who both supports and encourages President Washington, but also one who is not afraid to respectfully question, negotiate, or dissent. Progress needs trust which is built on relationships. My community relationships will assist in the role of a trustee. SCOTT ZONDERVAN Board members need to communicate clearly and professionally with each other and the college president. Being open-minded, willing to hear each other out, and see things from a different point-of-view. All responses in the voter guide were submitted directly by the candidate and have not been edited by the League of Women Voters, except for necessary cut if a reply exceeded character limitations. Spelling and grammar were not corrected. Publication of candidate statements and opinions is solely in the interest of public service and should NOT be considered as an endorsement. The League never supports or opposes any candidates or political parties. BATTLE CREEK, MI - A man was found dead and a woman injured Tuesday, Oct. 2, inside a burning house. Police say a man turned himself in for questioning. A Battle Creek Fire Department medical unit was driving on North Washington Avenue near East Northside Drive around 6:35 p.m. when rescuers saw smoke coming from a house. They stopped, and saw a woman inside with facial injuries and got her out. They saw what appeared to be a body inside but were forced back by fire. The medical unit was not equipped to respond to fires. Battle Creek firefighters and police responded. The body found inside the house is believed to be a 64-year-old Battle Creek man. The woman, a 37-year-old Bellevue resident, was hospitalized with burns, broken bones and cuts, police said. She provided police the names of a suspect and witnesses. Later that night, a 47-year-old Battle Creek man, considered a person of interest, turned himself in. Police are working with the Battle Creek fire inspector to determine a cause and process the scene for evidence. Police said that the motive and relationship of the three are under investigation. No names have been pending positive identification of the victim and notification of family. DOWAGIAC, MI -- Following months of criticism of the administration at a small college in Southwest Michigan, two candidates are challenging sitting trustees for their positions of leadership, campaigning on a need for change. Candidates Tom Buszek and Elaine Foster are running against incumbents Keith McKenzie and Todd Obren for two seats on the Board of Trustees at Southwestern Michigan College. The small college in a rural corner of Michigan has been under the spotlight for months. A Facebook group of over 500 people has leveled criticism at current board members and President David Mathews after a report from the Office of Auditor General said the college was neglecting payments into the state-run retirement program. Since the report was published, the college unsuccessfully sued the state government and Mathews and the board have faced scrutiny for the president's salary, list of expenses and what critics call a lack of transparency. "I don't think tough questions are being asked," Buszek said in an interview with MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette. "If the leadership is doing something questionable, the board's first loyalty is to the college and community." "They need to ask questions, and I don't think that's happening," he said. Buszek said the community has showed up to the board meeting wanting to ask questions, but members of the board refuse to have a dialogue. "They are the only public officials I know of who refused to communicate with their constituents," he said. Incumbents Obren and McKenzie declined to be interviewed by MLive, but sent prepared statements through Campaign Deputy Jared Hannapel. In a joint statement, Obren and McKenzie said the group of individuals that make up the Facebook group "have viciously and continually attacked the Board of Trustees of SMC, SMC Administrators, and long serving faculty." Both incumbents are involved in planning and oversight of the college, the statement said, which included monitoring student success, enrollment and finances. "Both of us are very proud of Southwestern Michigan College and the high quality, affordable education SMC provides," the statement said. "Our effectiveness is best judged by the quality of what SMC has become." Requests from the two challengers for debates or community forums with the incumbents have gone unanswered, Buszek said. The board's first role is as the college's governing body, Foster said in an interview with MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette, and trustees need to be asking questions to hold administrators accountable when issues arise, Foster said. "Board members are elected officials and the college belongs to the community," she said. A debate between the candidates would be a "great way" to discuss issues, Foster said. It was mid-September when the debate was first proposed, but they were told there was not enough time to pull one together, she said. Foster said the weeks leading up the election have been filled with controversy. In emails sent to dozens of faculty, administration and community members, Buszek criticized the current trustees for not consenting to a debate. Some faculty responded with criticism that Buszek's responses were "snarky," and an inappropriate use of college email addresses. Buszek, a former employee of SMC who worked 28 years at the college as an adjunct professor and dean, retired from his position with Kalamazoo Valley Community College last December. He is "uniquely qualified" for the position of a trustee because of his extensive experience in higher education, he said. "We need new experienced people to move the college into the next 50 years," Buszek said. Foster worked 27 years at SMC teaching nursing and eventually becoming a dean in the department. She left about seven years ago and is now a dean of an online nursing program based out of Colorado, she said. "I love Southwestern Michigan College," Foster said. "I was 23 years old when I started. I fell in love with the classroom and students." Foster and Buszek highlighted decades of experience in higher education and both said they can offer a new perspective to the board. If elected, she is hopeful the tension in the community won't carry over into the board room. She will come into the position with an "open mind," she said. "We're all one at that point in time," Foster said. "We're all there for the good of the college." A lifelong resident of Cass County, Obren is a Michiana Community President for Chemical Bank, he said in a statement. He highlighted his experience working in finance and serving in positions at the Southwestern Michigan Economic Growth Alliance and South Bend Business Development Corporation. "As a Trustee at SMC I am proud that we have a balanced budget while re-investing millions every year into our campus and facilities," he said. Obren said the board has led efforts to invest tens of millions of dollars into the campus to "provide quality educational facilities, on campus housing and a Student Activity Center that provides a total college experience for our students. "I believe it's imperative that our residents have access to high quality / affordable education and making sure Southwestern Michigan College continues to provide both for the foreseeable future is my goal and why I hope to get re-elected in November," he said. In the same statement, McKenzie, who first became a trustee in 1987, said he was the best candidate for the board because of both his experience leading the college and what it has accomplished during his time. The college has doubled in size, added campus housing and created a partnership with Ferris State University to offer bachelor degree programs without leaving the area, McKenzie said. McKenzie is the owner and operator of McKenzie Farms and has served as the past president of the Michigan Livestock Exchange and of Michigan Pork Producers, and was appointed to the Michigan Agriculture Commission by Gov. John Engler, according to his campaign Facebook page. In his statement to MLive, McKenzie also noted the success of the college's nursing program and expansion of the vocational training offerings. "As a farmer, I know the importance of having well trained vocational students and have pushed our college to be a leader in vocational education," he said. The trustees are longtime residents of Cass County and interact with the community everyday, the statement from McKenzie and Obren said. "Based on the lies being spread by the 'Concerned Citizens' Facebook page, we do not find this group credible," the trustees said in the statement. "It is abundantly clear that a debate is NOT what our opponents want. Rather, they want yet another public venue to attack us and the college." COMSTOCK TOWNSHIP, MI -- Three township residents will face off this November for a single, partial-term seat on the Comstock Township Board of Trustees. Incumbent Dave Camburn was appointed to the trustee seat in 2017 after former trustee Art Austin resigned. Camburn, who is seeking reelection, faces a challenge from candidates Amy Taylor and Chris Daniels. The candidate elected on Nov. 6 will take over the trustee seat for the final two years of Austin's four-year term, which ran from 2016-20. In questionnaire responses submitted via email to MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette, the three candidates explained why they are running and outlined top-priority issues they would address if elected. Dave Camburn, 64, was appointed to the board in spring of 2017 as the replacement for a former trustee who moved out of the township, he said in his questionnaire response. Camburn is a retired 911 Center supervisor and has worked as a police officer, fire fighter and business owner. He graduated from KVCC Police Academy and has attended schools and seminars to further his education, he said. He has also served on the Kalamazoo Area Building Authority Board of Trustees. Amy Taylor, 48, has owned and operated a cake bakery business, Bert's Bakery, for 26 years, she said in her questionnaire response. Taylor said she successfully opened a second bakery location in Kalamazoo in 2012. She is also the promoter for the Southwest Michigan Bridal Show. Taylor graduated from Galesburg Augusta High School. She said her experience comes from her daily life, hard work and choices whether successful or unsuccessful. Chris Daniels, 39, is the owner of CD Lawn Maintenance & Supply, M-96 Storage and CMD Properties, he said in his questionnaire response. Daniels graduated from Hackett Catholic Central and studied Landscape/Turf Management at Michigan State University. He said he is the former president of Southwest Michigan Landscapers Association and former vice president of Eastwood Little League. In the MLive questionnaire sent to each candidate, the three candidates shared why they are running for office and gave their top priorities if elected: Why are you running for this office? DAVE CAMBURN My goal as a trustee is to help govern the township so it truly serves and represents our community as a whole. As a lifelong member of the Comstock community, I have a vested interest in its future. The future affects all of us, especially our children and their future generations. Comstock needs to be a community that is a desirable place to live, learn and do business. AMY TAYLOR So let's be honest. I am not a politician. I am a strong women that believes that honesty & integrity are the most important qualities a person can possess. I have lived in the Township for 45 years. There are allot of issues that face our community. We have many great things working for us in our Schools, Senior Center and as well as Youth Programs and I would like to continue working towards bettering our community. CHRIS DANIELS I am running for this office because I feel as a longstanding business owner in Comstock township I offer a great perspective on how to make the township run more efficiently. I would like to pursue drawing in business into our township which would benefit our schools, our residents, and our township. I know I can offer a new fresh young perspective to this board. What are your top three priorities if elected and how would you address them? DAVE CAMBURN Making our community an attractive place to live, conduct business, and visit is a priority. Growing business and industry will help provide financial stability. Keeping our residential areas clean and pleasant will encourage growth. Maintaining desirable recreational areas will keep visitors and residents in our area and will support local businesses. Another priority must be fiscal responsibility. Responsible and prudent spending is necessary to maintain services and provide for township needs. However, reducing costs and minimizing tax burdens is imperative. Examining how every dollar is used will help achieve this. Another extremely important issue is community communication. Our citizens frequently are unaware of issues and actions that the township board considers and acts upon, until after decisions have been made. The ability to use social media and other resources must be made a priority so our community can be aware of issues, activities, and decisions affecting our community. Information before, during and following these things must be provided to our citizens if we truly want to fairly represent them as we govern the township. AMY TAYLOR If elected I will take every opportunity to research and make a decision based on what I believe is the best outcome for the Township and Community. I am a Leader not a follower! CHRIS DANIELS 1. Regulate KABA (Kalamazoo Building Authority) - understand and research - are they cooperating with & encouraging business & development (both commercial & residential) or are they working against the residents & future potential businesses in our township. 2. Crack down on lingering construction projects or blight in the township that are eye sores to those living in, visiting or driving through our township - make the community proud of where we reside! 3. Ensure fiscal responsibilities in all areas of the township MUSKEGON, MI - Three candidates are vying for to represent Michigan's 34th state Senate district. Former state Rep. Jon Bumstead, R-Newaygo, Democrat Poppy Sias-Hernandez and Libertarian Max Riekse will appear on the Nov. 6 general election ballot. Michigan's 34th District covers Muskegon, Newaygo and Oceana counties. Incumbent Sen. Goeff Hansen, R-Hart, cannot seek re-election due to term limits. This year, MLive Media Group partnered with the League of Women Voters of Michigan to provide candidate information and other voting resources to our readers. Each candidate was asked to answer a series of questions about their policy stances. Information on all state and federal races and many of Michigan's county and local races will be available at Vote411.org - the election-information website run by the League of Women Voters Education Fund. Bumstead represented Michigan's 100th District in the state House from 2010-16. He did not seek re-election to the House due to term limits. Hernandez is the owner of the PoppyConsults firm and currently serves as the managing director of Good for Youth, a nonprofit organization that supports professionals who serve youth. She previously served as an administrative assistant with Muskegon Public Schools. Riekse is a retired public school teacher who spent 23 years in education. Riekse also spent 32 years in the U.S. Army. He served in the Vietnam and Iraq wars and retired from the Army with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Below is how each of the 34th District candidates answered the questionnaire. What are your top three state legislative priorities and how would you address them? JON BUMSTEAD As the former vice chair of the House Appropriations Committee, I believe that it is vital that we continue to pay down Michigan's long-term debt so that it is not left to burden future generations. Michigan must continue to lower the tax burden for families and businesses. Our national and state economies have turned around because of wise tax policy strategies and it is important that we prioritize the needs of families and job providers. As the owner of my own construction company, I am supportive of an increased emphasis on skilled trades education and training. POPPY HERNANDEZ Quality public health, quality public schools, and quality jobs. Health, education and employment are the very pillars of 21st Century society. All three require enduring commitments to ensure strong families in Michigan. Health care must be available to all residents -- replacing lost coverage is essential to everyone's health and welfare. Full school funding, including pre-K, must be expanded and maintained. The continued erosion of collective bargaining and prevailing wage must end. Such practices endanger the economic security of all families. MAX RIEKSE Lowering home property taxes for senior (American) citizens; eliminating the Republican pension tax on Senior (American) citizens. Eliminating the Michigan Income tax for American citizens. What measures do you support/propose to achieve improved educational outcomes and accessibility for Michigan students from early childhood through post-secondary education? JON BUMSTEAD I am supportive of providing quality options for students and putting more of an emphasis on career technical education. I consistently voted for increased funding for public schools and worked to ensure that long-term debt was paid down to free up more money for the classroom. POPPY HERNANDEZ The Great Start Readiness Program is Michigan's nationally recognized Pre-K Program -- state funding must be protect. I will support the Early Literacy Program aimed at 3rd grade students. The Individuals with Disability Education Act requires our full attention. We need to see what is working well in special education and to identify what needs improvement. Michigan Early College and High School Dual Enrolled programs provide opportunities for more than than 20,000 students, particularly for first-generation college students. MAX RIEKSE Support specially trained armed teachers in all Michigan Public School K-12 & Public University classrooms; Max is a Life Member of the NRA. Ban all illegal aliens from attending Public schools; Make all legal aliens pay to attend our Public Schools. What policies do you support to increase jobs and help Michigan residents improve their economic positions? JON BUMSTEAD I am supportive of ensuring that Michigan has a competitive and friendly business environment that will attract job providers. It is dangerous and expensive for Michigan to use incentives that pick and choose winners as opposed to treating all companies equally. POPPY HERNANDEZ Michigan currently has a dearth of employment available. We are lacking skilled workers, thus inhibiting our ability to compete in the 21st Century economy. One of my goals upon being seated in the Michigan Senate is to ensure appointment to the Michigan Competitive Committee. I look forward to sponsoring increased job training bills, including a focus upon skilled trades. We must continue to invest in our students at all levels. I fully support the efforts and results of Michigan's Workforce Development Talent Investment Agency. MAX RIEKSE Ban all trucks on Michigan roads driven by Mexican nationals. Pass a Michigan legislative bill that repeal's 16" Amendment - Federal Income tax & abolish the IRS. Lower property taxes on all active farmland. What state policies do you support regarding campaign funding and voting rights? JON BUMSTEAD It is imperative that our elections are conducted securely and I would support policies that protect the integrity of our voting systems in Michigan. POPPY HERNANDEZ The right to participate in our democracy through voting is a basic right of all eligible citizens. Everyone deserves equal access to the ballot; election integrity must be maintained and secured. We as a society must safeguard against encroachments upon our fundamental right to vote! Gerrymandering is a threat to our democracy. Voters must select politicians - politicians must not be allowed to select voters. Democracy is not for sale. Common-sense campaign finance restraints including complete transparency and a limitation of Super-PACS influence. We must expose and resist voter suppression in all forms. MAX RIEKSE Eliminate Michigan's winner take all Presidential Electoral system and replace it with a fair and proportional electoral system based on the votes of the top three candidates i.e. Republican, Democrat and Libertarian; that way most everyone's vote counts for president. What actions or policies do you support to protect Michigan's water, air and land for current and future generations, while meeting the state's energy needs? Explain how those actions or policies would affect the future of Enbridge Pipeline 5. JON BUMSTEAD As an avid outdoorsman and sportsman, I have always worked hard to promote conservation efforts and would continue to do so in the state Senate. I am a supporter of the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund which helps with land conservation and preservation efforts as well as developing land that is open and available to all Michigan residents. Clean water is vital for Michigan families. I will work with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality on programs that ensure that families won't have to worry about the water that they drink. POPPY HERNANDEZ Access to clean water is a human right. In 2017, the Environmental Protection Agency conduct a complete review of Michigan's drinking water program. The EPA recommended that Michigan increase both funding and staffing resources, improve electronic data reporting and management, and ensure its program appropriately implements and complies with all aspects of the Safe Drinking Water Act. The Line 5 Pipeline has the potential to alter the entire Great Lakes ecosystem. Propane alternatives must be explored before a large scale rupture. I support a complete halt, inspection and review of Pipeline 5. MAX RIEKSE Eliminate Line number 5 under the Straits of Mackinaw ASAP. What policies will you pursue to promote social and racial justice in our state? JON BUMSTEAD Everyone in Michigan should be treated equally no matter of their race or their social status. I believe that improving the economy and ensuring that there are quality jobs for every person that wants one is important. I will support policies that provide training and education to those who need it to be successful in the workforce. POPPY HERNANDEZ The Michigan Department of Civil Rights represents the very best of our state, serving to educate and motivate our citizens to prevent discrimination in all forms. I fully support their various community training programs including disability, sexual harassment, housing discrimination and hate crimes. Michigan's commitment to inclusion is inspiring. For more than 15 years I have supported families in making healthy choices as a family consultant. Social justice featuring diversity and equality begins with safe families experiencing equal access to education. MAX RIEKSE Priority admission to Michigan H.S. students to MI tax supported Universities; then foreign students. Repeal all laws creating "crimes" without victims. Eliminate anti-4th Amendment local and state government asset forfeitures laws and mandate due process in a court of law be part of the entire forfeiture process. The Libertarian Party is all about freedom; the U.S. Constitution; and our Bill of Rights guarantying individual rights for all Americans. No tax dollars for abortion for any reason; Colonel Max is pro-life. Editor's note: All responses in the voter guide were submitted directly by the candidate and have not been edited by the League of Women Voters, except for necessary cuts if a reply exceeded character limitations. Spelling and grammar were not corrected. Publication of candidate statements and opinions is solely in the interest of public service and should NOT be considered as an endorsement. The League never supports or opposes any candidates or political parties. SAGINAW, MI -- A Buena Vista Township woman is headed to trial in connection with the death of her 3-month-old son. On Wednesday, Oct. 3, Saginaw County District Court Judge A. T. Frank bound over 28-year-old Kelise S. Clemmons on a charge of open murder. Clemmons is accused of killing her son Elijah L. Frierson. Elijah was born Dec. 22 and died March 11 in his family's apartment in the 3200 block of Sterling Drive in Buena Vista Township. Clemmons said that she fed the baby, laid him down, and woke up and he wasn't breathing. However, according to Saginaw County Assistant Prosecutor Sharonndra Clement, Elijah suffered a fractured skull and the injuries could not have been caused by the only other person around at the time, Clemmons' 4-year-old son. Frank found there was enough evidence to bind Clemmons over for trial. Her next court date is pending. After 197 days and 83.4 million miles traveled in space aboard the International Space Station, Expedition 56 and NASA astronaut Andrew Feustel is set to return to Earth early Thursday morning, Oct. 4. NASA says the trio of Feustel, Ricky Arnold and Oleg Artemyev of the Russian space agency are scheduled to land at 7:45 a.m. Thursday in Kazakhstan. The U.S. space agency will cover the crew's departure from the space station and landing back on Earth on its website and NASA TV. As of now, the trio is scheduled to undock from the orbiting laboratory at 3:30 a.m. Thursday morning and begin the deorbit burn at 6:51 a.m. Feustel, Arnold and Artemyev are expected to land southeast of the remote town of Dzhezkazgan, Kazakhstan. Feustel, a Lake Orion, Michigan native, first arrived to the space station in March has served as its commander since June. "The crew is completing a 197-day mission spanning 3,152 orbits of Earth and a journey of 83.4 million miles," NASA says in a release. "During their time on the orbiting laboratory, the crew of Expedition 56 carried out science experiments ranging from physics to biological studies and conducted tests to expand navigation capabilities in preparation for future travel far from Earth." After the crew lands, NASA says they will return to the staging area in the city of Karaganda via helicopter. The NASA astronauts will hop on a plane and return to Houston, while Artemyev will return to Star City, Russia. In the past, Feustel has shared photos from the space station of the Great Lakes, Mackinac Bridge, Detroit, and events such as a volcanic eruption in Hawaii and more to his Twitter page. NASA even shared a music video the Michigan native and Canadian rock band The Flaming Lips made while he was aboard the space station ahead of his departure. During his time orbiting Earth, Feustel participated in a spacewalk lasting more than 6 hours back on June 14. Before that, he and Arnold also did two other spacewalks outside the space station with both lasting longer than 6 hours. Before his launch aboard the Soyuz 54 rocket to the space station back in March, Feustel was a crewmember on the final space shuttle mission to service the Hubble Space Telescope in 2009, and on the Endeavour's final mission to the space station. in 2011 With Michigan astronaut Andrew Feustel and the crew of Expedition 56 set to depart the International Space Station and return to Earth early Thursday morning, Oct. 4, here is everything you need to know and how to watch at home. Feustel, a Lake Orion, Michigan native, will depart the space station with NASA's Ricky Arnold and Roscosmos astronaut Oleg Artemyev at 3:30 a.m. Thursday morning. The trio is scheduled to return to Earth with a 7:45 a.m. landing in Dzhezkazgan, Kazakhstan. The U.S. space agency will cover the crew's departure from the space station and landing back on Earth on its website and NASA TV. See below for a live stream of NASA TV, or click here to watch the space agency's live camera from the space station: -- NASA says its broadcast schedule will start at 12:30 a.m. Thursday morning with the farewell and hatch closure, then undocking coverage at 3:30 a.m., and deorbit burn and landing coverage starting at 6:30 a.m. The returning trio is coming off of a 197-day mission that spanned 3,152 orbits of Earth while traveling about 83.4 million miles in space. Feustel first arrived to the orbiting laboratory in March, and took over as commander starting in June. "During their time on the orbiting laboratory, the crew of Expedition 56 carried out science experiments ranging from physics to biological studies and conducted tests to expand navigation capabilities in preparation for future travel far from Earth," NASA says on its website. With his departure, Feustel hands the role of commander aboard the space station to German astronaut Alexander Gerst. During his time orbiting Earth, Feustel participated in a spacewalk lasting more than 6 hours back on June 14. Before that, he and Arnold also did two other spacewalks outside the space station with both lasting longer than 6 hours. Before his launch aboard the Soyuz 54 rocket to the space station back in March, Feustel was a crewmember on the final space shuttle mission to service the Hubble Space Telescope in 2009, and on the Endeavour's final mission to the space station in 2011. Rep. Ron Travis on Tuesday congratulated both Bledsoe and Sequatchie County Schools for their considerable improvements related to high school graduation rates for the 2017-2018 school year. The districts were among nine across Tennessee that demonstrated some of the most notable gains and overall achievements, improving graduation rates by five percentage points or more. In fact, Bledsoe Countys graduation rate increased by 6.5 percent during the 2017-2018 school year and was 92 percent. Sequatchie County saw an increase of 7.6 percent from the previous academic year. Approximately 94 percent of high school students in the county earned their high school diploma in 2017-2018. I am very pleased to hear that more of our students are experiencing academic success at the high school level by earning their diplomas, said Representative Travis. This will better prepare them for college, technical or trade school, or as they look to join our workforce. I want to thank our local educators, staff members, engaged parents, and family members for the important roles they have played in this tremendous accomplishment, and I will continue to support our high school graduates because they are the future leaders of our community and our state. Statewide graduation rates remained at the highest level ever recorded in 2017-2018 89.1 percent. Additionally, more than 56 percent of school districts with high schools saw rates improved when compared with 2016-2017 numbers. On 1 October, the Swedish Defence Material Administration submitted the Swedish Gripen proposal to the Bulgarian Ministry of Defence. The Swedish offer consists of eight new fully NATO-interoperable Gripen C/D fighter aircraft to equip the Bulgarian Air Force. A Swedish Air Force JAS-39C Gripen fighter jet (Credit: Saab) The Swedish offer consists of eight new NATO interoperable Gripen aircraft with the latest MS20 configuration, which can be delivered to the Bulgarian Air Force within a short time period, with the first aircraft delivered within 24 months of contract signature. Training of pilots and technicians is included and with the offer full QRA capability will be achieved within the budget framework. Gripen is an advanced multirole fighter at the start of its development life time. The Swedish offer meets the requirements of the Bulgarian government regarding budget, delivery schedule and capabilities of the new aircraft, says Joakim Wallin, Director Export and International Relations, Swedish Defence Material Administration. When Bulgaria selects Gripen, Saab and Sweden are ready to co-operate with the Bulgarian defence industry in areas such as aircraft maintenance, transferring important know-how to the country that would help to sustain and create skilled jobs, says Jonas Hjelm, Senior Vice President and head of Saab business area Aeronautics. Relations between Sweden and Bulgaria are excellent. The economic cooperation is sizeable, with a growth in bilateral trade and increasing investments by Swedish companies in Bulgaria, which are currently employing close to 9000 people in Bulgaria.says H. E. Louise Bergholm, Swedish Ambassador to Bulgaria. Gripen C/D is a proven system, in operational service with the air forces of Sweden, South Africa, Hungary, Czech Republic and Thailand. The UK Empire Test Pilots School (UK ETPS) uses Gripen as its fast jet platform for test pilots from all over the world. With Gripen, NATO member states Czech Republic and Hungary successfully participate in NATO missions and joint exercises with other NATO countries. The development of the Gripen C/D is on-going and the system will remain operational for at least another 30 years. After years of discord from UF Other Personnel Services workers, the university is working to address the issue but not in a way that guarantees their jobs. In April, UF Human Resources Services began asking all departments to review their use of non-student hourly OPS staff because they found that some were in temporary positions for decades, Steve Orlando, a UF spokesperson, said. Non-student hourly OPS employees are at-will temporary workers who arent graduate assistants, faculty members, students or health center residents. UF employs 3,916 non-student OPS workers, Orlando said. Its not a good place to have employees, he said. We needed to clean things up. Human Resources told all departments to take one of three actions: transition their OPS employees to full-time staffing, end the position or transition the employee to TempForce, a staffing firm in Gainesville that connects employees with corporations, Orlando said. UF hires temporary employees for one-time jobs, Orlando said. Temporary employees work on special projects, help reduce workload, cover staff on leave or work on an as-needed basis. They are hired with no expectation of continued employment, and dont receive the same benefits as full-time positions, such as paid vacation or sick leave, according to the OPS policy. OPS workers at UF have been vocal about their displeasure with the way administration treats them. The Alachua County Labor Coalition pushed back after UF refused to pay OPS workers for time missed due to Hurricane Irma and again during Richard Spencers appearance at UF. In July, about 40 OPS workers protested outside UF President Kent Fuchs house after hearing about a supposed mass firing of OPS employees. There are nine different categories of non-student hourly OPS workers, four of which have a set hour limit that employees cant exceed. Nearly 300 OPS employees at UF have exceeded their limit of 4,176 hours, Orlando said. Some OPS employees have been in what was intended to be a temporary position for 10 to 20 years, he said. Now, colleges are planning to address those workers who have exceeded the hourly threshold, Orlando said. There is no set end date when the transition needs to be completed. Transitioning the employees to TempForce is one option that departments have for their OPS workers. TempForce helps corporations find temporary employees and provides some limited benefits for workers that OPS employment doesnt offer, Orlando said. Through TempForce, employees can qualify for paid time off after completing 1,200 hours, according to the TempForce employee benefits program. Workers can also purchase health insurance through TempForce. UF has to pay TempForce an administrative fee that varies depending on the hourly pay rate set by UF and the position type, Orlando said. Enjoy what you're reading? Get content from The Alligator delivered to your inbox Subscribe Now Jeremiah Tattersall, the Alachua County Labor Coalition union liaison, said he would like to see UF use that money to transition more OPS workers to full-time staff. With the amount of money UF has to pay TempForce, why cant they just give that money to this person to hire them as a full-time employee at UF, he said. UF isnt using the money it pays Tempforce to hire OPS workers as full-time staff because it costs less to use TempForce, Orlando said. Tattersall believes UFs new decisions about OPS employees brings both good and bad results. While some OPS workers have become full-time staff, others are losing their jobs entirely, he said. The University of Florida is going about this wrong, Tattersall said. We dont agree with the policy of firing long-term OPS workers because we think that anyone whos worked for UF for more than two years should be a permanent employee. Contact McKenna Beery at mbeery@alligator.org and follow her on Twitter at @mckennabeery Thanks to a recent ruling by federal judge Mark Walker, the state of Florida will now be required to provide Spanish-language ballots ahead of the 2018 midterm elections. Plaintiffs in the case argued that the Spanish-language ballots were necessary, as the recent influx of Puerto Ricans into the state following Hurricane Maria created a large number of non-English speaking voters who intend to vote in the upcoming elections. On that count, the plaintiffs were certainly correct. There are a large number of voters in Florida, and likely several other states, who have no command of English. Theyre functionally illiterate in the language. This story should be about the responsibilities and duties of a citizen to learn the common language. Yet, this is oddly being twisted into a voting rights issue. Why should the government be responsible for accommodating citizens who dont speak English? In his decision, Judge Walker wrote that Puerto Ricans are unique among Americans in that they are not educated primarily in English -- and do not need to be. A spokesperson for Governor Rick Scott added that we dont want any registered voters to not be able to exercise their right because of a language barrier. These comments are alarming. They resemble the new and Orwellian national motto of our nations leaders: Diversity is strength. These individuals are telling us that Americans dont have to be educated in English, and that language barriers dont matter. And yet, somehow many of our nations political leaders believe these differences and language barriers will bring people together and make us stronger. If the idea that more language barriers will make us stronger seems counterintuitive, its because it is. It is an obvious fact that members of a society and a country must be able to communicate with each other. As Gil Laroya wrote in the left-leaning Huffington Post, communication is a basic, fundamental part of any functioning society. If a group cant communicate within itself, confusion and frustration can soon set in. Can you imagine not being able to communicate with your fellow neighbor? Even worse, what if millions of Americans could literally not understand their fellow countrymen because they dont speak English. This is happening all across America, as statistics show there are millions of naturalized U.S. citizens who are functionally illiterate in English. For example, according to the U.S. Census data for New Jersey, 40% of residents who dont speak English at home also dont speak English very well at all. Similarly, as immigration has increased in the small town of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, the town has had to hire new teachers to educate the now hundreds of students who have to take English as a second language. Take my beloved hometown of Miami, even, where its commonplace to find individuals and businesses that cannot communicate in English. Just a few weeks ago, a Taco Bell employee in nearby Hialeah was fired for refusing to take the order of a customer who spoke English. The employee claimed that, because none of the employees in the restaurant spoke English, they could not understand or take the customers order. The story naturally went viral on social media and sparked an outrage. If a story about Taco Bell employees refusing to conduct business in English is an outrage, shouldnt stories about voters who cant vote in English be equally as outrageous? This isnt a complicated issue. Call me crazy, but I believe society would function best for all parties involved if we could all speak a common language. A nation cant properly function without one. Thats not to say that theres anything wrong with speaking another language to someone who understands it. In fact, I speak three languages myself, but newcomers and those who lack proficiency in English would better assimilate into society upon learning the language, which would in turn open doors for better job and education opportunities. Learning the English language is something immigrants should voluntarily pursue in order to assimilate into the American society they want to gain citizenship in. However, some immigrants dont because our country continues to make accomodations which clearly suggest learning English is not necessary. As these accommodations can be costly and cause a burden on society, then perhaps its time for lawmakers to require this assimilation through legislation. Eduardo Neret is a UF finance senior. His column normally appears on Mondays. Enjoy what you're reading? Get content from The Alligator delivered to your inbox Subscribe Now Shares in luxury automaker Aston Martin fell as much as 6.5 percent on their market debut in London on Wednesday as investors and analysts raised concerns over its ability to deliver an ambitious roll-out of new models. The company, which last year made its first profit since 2010 and has gone bankrupt seven times, had priced its shares at 19 pounds each, giving it a market capitalisation of 4.33 billion pounds ($5.63 billion). The shares fell to as low as 17.75 pounds and were down 5 percent. Aston Martin has plans to launch a new model every year from 2016 to 2022. "(It) has very aggressive growth plans. The execution of that growth needs to be flawless - nothing eats cash more than a car company when the cycle turns. There is concern that it's more cyclical than the commentary has been," said James Congdon, managing director of cashflow returns specialist Quest. "The banks have done a good job for their client - but there's no bounce." MITIGATING RISK Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings Plc expects to produce around 7,100 to 7,300 cars in 2019, and 9,600 to 9,800 cars in 2020. It aims to increase production to 14,000 cars in the medium term, helped by new models and improving its manufacturing process. The company is investing all of its cash flows to try to achieve this, leaving nothing for dividends or paying down debt. "In terms of execution risk - this is what I've done for all of my career. I'm an engineer, we mitigate risk," Chief Executive Andy Palmer, who has led a turnaround plan at the company since 2014, told Reuters. Palmer played down risks to the business from Britain leaving the European Union, even as other car manufacturers step up warnings over a disorderly Brexit. He said Aston Martin was "relatively well insulated" from the effects of Brexit because Europe is not its biggest market and it may actually benefit from exporting with a cheaper pound. However, 60 percent of its parts are imported from the EU and will be hit by tariffs if there is no trade deal. "Obviously we'd all prefer no tariffs, to be frank, no doubt, but the industry has to learn to adapt and it always has adapted to changes," Palmer said. VALUATION In 2017, Aston Martin had adjusted earnings before tax interest, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of 206.5 million pounds, up from 100.9 million pounds in 2016. Its closest stock market comparable is Ferrari, which listed in 2015 and trades at an enterprise value (debt plus equity) of 22.2 times EBITDA, according to Refinitiv data. Based on this metric and Aston Martin's net debt of 538.8 million pounds, the British carmaker was priced at 23.6 times EBITDA on its debut. Depending on its relative price performance, Aston Martin might make it into the FTSE 100, becoming the first carmaker in Britain's blue-chip index since Jaguar. Its shareholders, which include Italian investment firm Investindustrial and a group of Kuwait-based investors, sold a quarter of the company's stock in the initial public offering (IPO). The company did not raise any money for its own purposes. Aston Martin's weak debut is the latest blow to Europe's IPO market. British crowd-lending platform Funding Circle is down more than 20 percent since it floated last week. A banker familiar with both deals, who did not want to be named, said: "This is brutal. The IPO market stinks for growth stocks which do not have an earnings track record." Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan were joint global coordinators for the Aston Martin IPO, asset management firm Lazard advised. You will soon be able to buy a pair of Patanjali jeans in December. Baba Ramdevs Patanjali Ayurved is gearing up to for a mega launch in the apparels space. In response to CNBC-TV18 query, Patanjali confirmed plans to launch Paridhan in the winter of 2018. Patanjali is eyeing a two phase launch for its apparels brand Paridhan, said people familiar with the matter. On September 25, the company issued an invitation for franchisees to open exclusive brand outlets for apparels and fashion accessories. Through this model, Patanjali is looking to open 250 exclusive brand outlets in both metros as well as tier two and tier three cities in its first phase. It would take about 6-8 months for the company to roll out these standalone stores. Sources privy to the developments told CNBC-TV18 that Patanjali is looking at a pan-India launch for apparels in 2019. As a part of its phase two strategy, the company plans to tie up with large retailers. According to multiple people familiar with the development, Patanjali is in talks with six to seven retailers to explore the shop in shop model. Shop in shop is an agreement in which a retailer rents a part of the retail space to be used by a different company to run another independent shop. The company may explore tie-ups with players like Future Group, Shoppers Stop and several other domestic retail chains. Patanjali is also exploring talks with players in the wholesale or cash and carry space for a possible alliance. Three key brands will be sold through Paridhan stores. These include Aastha, Livfit, Sanskaar and will include apparels across western and ethnic categories. Patanjali is likely to begin with 3,000 stock keeping units and may scale this up going forward. Paridhan stores will also house fashion accessories including bags, belts and wallets. Sources say that prices will be at least 30-40 percent lower than leading brands in those categories. Patanjali has tied up with third party manufacturers for the initial manufacturing process and may set up their own unit for apparels over the next 1-2 years. Source: CNBC TV 18 Tata Steel live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Modular furniture is not something one would relate to Tata Steel, the largest steel maker in the country. But after successfully launching doors and windows that are made of steel but look like wood, the company has now launched modular furniture. "Tata Steel has ventured into modular furniture under the brand name ARTifurn. Currently, the brand has been launched in Chandigarh and NCR region. These are modular wall-to-wall wardrobes," P Anand, Chief, Services & Solutions, Tata Steel, told Moneycontrol. "We are expanding the channel to cover the entire northern region by March 2019," he added. The new venture follows the success of Pravesh, the brand under which doors and windows are sold. The company's first initiative in the B2C segment, Tata Steel has sold 60,000 doors and windows since launching them in December 2016. The vertical clocked revenues of Rs 75 crore in FY18. The idea The need for sturdy doors and windows came up during the the company's discussions with consumers. "We have a business vertical that is focused on trying to understand the expressed and latent needs of customers and coming up with solutions to address the same," said Anand. In one of the discussions, consumers pointed out the problem with wooden doors, which were deemed to be unsafe and breakable. "Theft was a major issue in Tier II and Tier III cities. Besides, there were issues associated with wood, like expansion/contraction and termites. The quality of wood used to make doors left a lot to be desired," said Anand. Sensing an opportunity, Tata Steel introduced the Pravesh brand that sold doors "with strength of steel and the finish and elegance of wood." Building capability For a steelmaker, it is not easy to sell a retail product. To make up for that, Tata Steel borrowed practices from the consumer durables industry. It formed a team of 200 sales executives, and another team consisting of 150 people specialised in installation was also set up. The company tapped its dealer network. "Pravesh being a consumer facing product, a dedicated call centre team has been deployed to answer any query/manage complaints of the consumer," said Anand. Pravesh is sold through a 2-Tier retail network. "We have 45 distributors/business development partners and 2,100 dealer outlets across the country," said the senior Tata Steel executive. With the brand now tasting success, Pravesh has become a part of Tata Steel's new communication campaign IL&FS Transportation Networks | The company defaulted on the interest on non-convertible debentures due on August 25, 2020. (Image: Reuters) The newly constituted board of debt-laden IL&FS is likely to meet on October 4 in Mumbai to prepare a 'first-hand assessment' report that will look at the quantum of crisis as well as a plausible solution to fix the 'huge mismatch' and misrepresentation of facts, a senior government official said on October 3. "The new board, headed by Uday Kotak, is waiting for regulatory approvals (from RBI and SEBI) before the meeting starts," the official said. A preliminary assessment report by the new board is expected to be submitted before October 8, when the case is due at NCLT. A comprehensive action plan or a blueprint will be prepared in two weeks, the official said. On October 1, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) approved the takeover of IL&FS board by government nominees, saying mismanagement at the crisis-ridden financier makes it a fit case of supersession of the board under Article 241 of the Companies Act. The decision to supersede the existing board was taken after MCAs Regional Director, Mumbai submitted a report from that brought out serious corporate related deficiencies in the IL&FS holding company and its subsidiaries. The board was suspended and a new six-member board led by veteran banker Uday Kotak was constituted. The other members are former Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) Chief GN Vajpai, ICICI Bank Chairman GC Chaturvedi, Tech Mahindra's Vineet Nayyar, and former bureaucrats Malini Shankar and Nand Kishore. The official also said that the company will honour the short-term payment obligations, while long-term borrowing is likely to be rolled over. Over the past one month, IL&FS has defaulted on payments and is sitting on total liabilities of Rs 91,000 crorea result of its mismanaged borrowings in the past. The crisis at IL&FS spilled over to bond and stock markets, with yields rising and stock prices tumbling. According to an official statement from the Finance Ministry, the government noted that the consolidated financial statement of the IL&FS holding company and its subsidiaries exaggerated the value of their non-current assets by showing intangible assets worth over Rs. 20,000 crore. The Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) is also investigating into the company's business after serious complaints on some its companies surfaced. "SFIO is expected to submit its report in a month," the official said. While the government did not state that this is a case of 'fraud', an investigation by SFIO is needed due to 'mismanagement and misrepresentation' by the companys board. Incorporated in 1987, IL&FS is a large Systemically Important Non-Deposit Accepting Core Investment Company (CIC-ND-SI) and has several infrastructure assets that played a major role in infrastructure development and financing in the country. It has 169 group companies, which includes subsidiaries, joint venture companies and associate entities. Wildlife safaris, a special meal in the midst of the woods or a spa in a natural set up are some of the amenities offered to guests at the Taj Safari properties in India. Although there are just four such properties at present, plans are afoot to add four more in the next two years. These four properties are run by Taj Hotels in partnership with CG Hotels and Resorts, part of the Kathmandu-based Chaudhary Group, popularly known as maker of Wai Wai noodles. The hospitality arm of the Kathmandu-based company - CG Hospitality - was valued at $386 million in 2017. CG Hospitality has stakes in 95 hotels in 12 countries across the world and owns 54 properties in India. With plans to double their inventory in the country in the next three to five years, it wants to get into expansion mode in partnership with Taj Safari properties. Presently, the four Taj Safari properties are situated in Bandhavgarh National Park, Kanha National Park, Panna National Park and Pench National Park. Chaudhary Group is looking at Kaziranga National Park, Gir National Park, Corbett National Park and Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve for the four new properties. "We see a lot of opportunity in the Indian market and we want to give a boutique experience to our guests. We are not just looking at multiplying the number of keys in the country but working at creating an experience. We also have some properties that have just four rooms in them but these rooms offer experiences and a personal touch. That is what we want to offer to our guests," said Binod Chaudhary, Chairman, Chaudhary Group. In a bid to offer customised deals to guests in the lap of luxury, they are looking at leveraging their brand - The Farm - which presently has one property at San Benito, Philippines. "The Farm is a holistic healing and wellness centre where people balance their mind, body and spirit with exercise and foods in an eco-friendly atmosphere. We offer several beauty and wellness programmes ranging from detox to weight management to minor ailment treatments. It has been a successful model and we are looking at Himachal Pradesh for a similar property in India alongside other locations such as Montenegro and Latin America," added Chaudhary. Alongside the two luxury properties, the Group is also planning to add at least 15 hotels in India through multiple brands, including their own brands The Fern and Zinc Journey. Chaudhary Group will also be powering a Rs 1,000 crore distressed asset hospitality fund in India. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Kerala-based Federal Bank was fined Rs 5 crore by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for not following procedures on reporting of data on large corporate loans, assessment of risk-based supervision (RBS) by RBI, know-your-customer norms and delay in compensation to customer complaints. On September 25, RBI said it imposed a a monetary penalty of Rs 50 million (Rs 5 crore) on Federal Bank Ltd for for violation of Section 19(2) of Banking Regulation Act. The penalty was for "non-compliance with the directions issued by RBI on (a) reporting of data on Central Repository of Information on Large Credits (CRILC), (b) reporting to RBI for assessment under RBS, (c) payment of compensation for delay in resolution of ATM-related customer complaints, and (d) Know Your Customer / Anti-money Laundering (KYC/AML) norms," RBI said in a statement on its website. The central bank has been very active in penalising banks for non-compliance of several RBI rules with the major ones including violation of under-reporting or divergence in classification of non-performing assets (NPAs) and KYC norms. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers vested in RBI under the provisions...of the Act, taking into account the failure of the bank to adhere to the aforesaid provision of the Act and the directions issued by RBI. This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers, RBI added. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More The consistent pricing competition from Reliance Jio is likely to stay, due to which, experts feel telecom companies are likely to report weak set of earnings for another quarter in Q1Fy19. "We expect another quarter of weak earnings prints for the wireless names as well as Bhart Infratel (a) postpaid re-pricing, continued prepaid ARPU down-trading, seasonality and initial impact of JioPhone monsoon hungama result in a higher sequential revenue decline for the wireless names, and (b) loss of Vodafone Idea tenancies hits Bharti Infratel's financials," said Kotak Securities in a report. The research house expects these following factors to drive higher sequential revenue pressure for the incumbents: 1> Accelerated postpaid re-pricing as the incumbents look to protect their postpaid subscribers base from switching to Reliance-Jio. 2> Continued prepaid ARPU (average revenue per user) down-trading. 3> Seasonality the usual Q2 weakness for the incumbents. 4> Initial impact of JioPhone monsoon hungama exchange offer. Kotak said its channel checks suggest that Jio has seen a higher degree of success with JioPhone monsoon hungama exchange offer plan than it did with the initial JioPhone plan. Incumbents will see bigger hit from Q3 as the impact in Q2 was limited to less than half a quarter, the research house feels. Kotak expects all these factors to drive a sharper sequential pressure on revenues of incumbent operators. For Bharti Airtel, it has baked in 3 percent QoQ decline in reported India wireless revenues (3.5 percent organic). For Idea, it expects a 5.7 percent like-on-like (Vodafone+Idea, full-quarter proforma) QoQ decline in wireless revenues. On a reported (Idea + 1 month of Vodafone for Q2) basis, it expects Idea to report a 28 percent QoQ growth in revenues to Rs 7,600 crore. "We expect (a) Bharti to report a 16 percent QoQ and 45 percent YoY decline in India wireless EBITDA and (b) Idea to report a 6 percent QoQ EBITDA growth on a reported basis," Kotak said. On a like-on-like basis, Kotak estimates a 34 percent QoQ and 71 percent YoY EBITDA decline. On the telecom tower front, Kotak said Bharti Infratel's financials are likely to look weak on account of the one-month impact of the Vodafone-Idea tenancy exits even as it believes the company has seen a slight pickup in gross tenancy additions primarily from Reliance Jio. The research house expects a 4.5 percent QoQ and 10.1 percent YoY decline in EBITDA and around an 8 percent QoQ as well as YoY decline in recurring PAT for Bharti Infratel. However, only for Tata Communications, it expects a modest 3 percent sequential improvement in EBITDA led by a slight improvement in the revenue growth trajectory in the traditional data business and further reduction in EBITDA losses in the growth services segment. Disclaimer: Reliance Industries Ltd. (which owns Reliance Jio) is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd. The views and investment tips expressed by brokerage house on moneycontrol.com are its own and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. Engineering exporters received business orders and enquiries worth around USD 100 million at a five-day exhibition in Colombia held during September 24-28, exporters' body EEPC India said on Wednesday. The engineering exporters' body said its exhibitors booked orders worth USD 3.3 million and received business enquiries of nearly USD USD 98.5 million at the expo. The exhibition was held under EEPC India's flagship series INDEE (40th edition), with support of the Commerce Ministry. "India's engineering exports to Colombia were USD 483 million in 2017-18 and our exhibitors have been able to garner nearly one fifth of last year's exports during this exhibition itself between September 24 and September 28. These business enquiries are most likely to materialise," EEPC India Chairman Ravi Sehgal said in a letter to Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu. However, Sehgal pointed out that India should learn from China on how to promote the exports of the entire chain of production. "In case of engineering exports, for example, the Chinese do not encourage primary steel exports and, in fact, such steel is provided through PSUs which are often selling steel at a loss. "Thus, they are able to circumvent the WTO's Article of Subsidies and Countervailing Measures and can export the entire chain of value added engineering products," he said. IL&FS Transportation Networks | The company defaulted on the interest on non-convertible debentures due on August 25, 2020. (Image: Reuters) live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More IL&FS has a new set of board members to look into the financial crisis at the infrastructure lending company. The board would look at the process of asset sales over the next few months to reduce its debt. However, an immediate loan from LIC cannot be ruled out especially since the life insurer had said that IL&FS will "not be allowed to fail". LIC is no stranger to "shortage of fund" situations in investee companies. Be it through initial public offering (IPO), stake sale, qualified institutional placements or offer for sale, large institutions have sought LIC's assistance whenever they have faced a cash crunch. At IL&FS too, a Rs 4,500 crore rights issue is pending for approval. LIC will be a key buyer of shares if the new board gives a go-ahead for this arrangement. The new board of directors at IL&FS is expected to meet on October 4, to take stock of the financial situation at the lender. It will look to come up with solutions to handle the crisis. The first step will be to honour short-term payment obligations and the board may look at a combination of asset sales and fund raising from existing shareholders. On October 1, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) approved the takeover of IL&FS board by government nominees, saying mismanagement at the crisis-ridden financier makes it a fit case of supersession of the board under Article 241 of the Companies Act. LIC and investment assets With annual premium collection (new premium plus renewals) of Rs 3.18 lakh crore, LIC is not just an insurance company. It is a mega-institution. In the banking sector, State Bank of India, ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank as institutions are considered "too big to fail". Although, such a classification is not there in insurance, LIC would undoubtedly be at the top of the list. IL&FS has a cumulative debt of Rs 91,000 crore which it plans to reduce by selling multiple assets on a short-term basis. A large investor in both equity and debt instruments, LIC's balance sheet size jumped by 10.4 percent to Rs 27.9 lakh crore as on March 31, 2018. The total investment assets stood at Rs 27.23 lakh crore, of which the life fund (traditional business) stood at Rs 20.79 lakh crore. LIC holds 25.34 percent stake in IL&FS and is expected to hold internal meetings to discuss the course of action over the next few weeks. While the board would participate in the rights issue, the first action by it will be to identify assets that can be sold immediately. Long history of investing in public institutions LIC is called a "bailout agency" by the market, a tag which the insurer has repeatedly denied. Large divestments by the government in public sector enterprises have resulted in LIC picking up significant stake in various firms. As part of a recent deal, LIC will hold 51 percent stake in state-run IDBI Bank. The bank which has a high level of bad loans has been looking to hive off its non-core assets, which will now be the responsibility of LIC. IDBI Bank reported a wider net loss of Rs 2,409.90 crore for the first quarter ending June 2018. The loss widened from Rs 853 crore registered in the same quarter a year ago, due to a jump in non-performing assets (NPAs) and provisions. As a percentage of total loans, the gross non-performing assets (NPA) ratio worsened to 30.78 percent from 27.95 percent in the March quarter. Similarly, the net NPA ratio also increased to 18.76 percent from 16.69 percent in the previous quarter. This is not the first time when LIC has come forward to rescue a company by investing into their public share issues through multiple instruments. In 2014, State Bank of India brought a mega OFS, where LIC contributed a "substantial" share of the Rs 7,300 crore that the bank received. In August 2015, it bought 86 percent of the shares on offer in state-run Indian Oil Corporation. Similarly in 2017, LIC had invested about Rs 4,300 crore in the offer-for-sale by NTPC, gathering almost 50 percent of the stake sale. State-owned company IPOs have received heavy support from LIC, be it the Rs 4,200 crore Hindustan Aeronautics IPO where the insurer brought about 69 percent stake or the New India Assurance IPO where again LIC bid for almost 70 percent of the issue. Equity holding caps According to IRDAI Investment norms, no insurer can hold more than 15 percent in one single entity. However, LIC has been given an exception in some cases. These are companies which the insurance giant has labelled as "legacy" investments and have been given additional time to bring down their stake to below 15 percent. The LIC Act allows the life insurer to hold 30 percent in one company. If LIC subscribes to the IL&FS rights issue, its stake in the company will increase. Considering this is an exceptional circumstance, it is likely that the insurer will be required to inform the regulator of the stake hike and the roadmap to bring it down. E-tailers are seeking more relief on certain fundamental issues even as the government has implemented the tax collection at source (TCS) regime under GST for merchants selling on e-commerce sites, while addressing their concerns through a pointed list of frequently asked questions (FAQs). "While the government has addressed the procedural concerns, it hasn't addressed the fundamental issues," said a senior executive of one of the e-commerce companies requesting anonymity. "The government has said that all small and micro enterprises need to be registered with the GST (Goods and Services Tax) authorities and undertake all the compliance. The seller needs to get the TCS deducted by the online e-commerce operators. If the threshold is below what is mandated by the GST, he needs to seek a refund from the GST authorities against the next return he is filing. The basic premise is why should he (supplier) take all the obligations? Is the offline retailer supposed to take all those obligations?" the person asked. Stressing upon the need for a level playing field between online and offline operators, another company executive said: "While a supplier having turnover less than Rs 20 lakh needs to get a registration for transacting online it is not the case in offline." TCS finally came into effect from October 1 after being deferred at least three times in the last one year. It mandates sellers of e-commerce companies to register themselves even if they are doing businesses below Rs 20 lakh annually. Businesses necessarily have to register under the new indirect tax regime, if their annual turnover is more than Rs 20 lakh. The sellers will now have to pay 1 percent TCS on the goods sold to customers, as per the Section 52 of the Central GST (CGST) Act, 2017. The levy, even though unlikely to yield a large amount in taxes, will still incrementally help the government move closer towards the monthly GST tax collection target of roughly Rs 1 lakh crore, improve compliance and prevent tax evasion. The suppliers, however, can claim credit for the tax deducted. In the FAQs, the government has clarified that every merchant supplying goods through an e-commerce operator shall be mandatorily required to register irrespective of the value of supply made by him. The TCS has to be collected once supply has been made through the e-commerce operator. In its FAQ list, released last week, the government has also clarified that TCS will not be collected on import of goods and services. "As far as import of goods is concerned since same would fall fall within the domain of Customs Act 1962, it would be outside the purview of TCS," it said. However, for companies providing services and not goods, it is not mandatory to register unless their aggregate turnover exceeds Rs 20 lakh. On its part, the government may extend the first months return filing date to ease online marketplaces transition to the new system, depending on the implementation and feedback from the industry. Under the GST norms, companies are required to file returns by the following months 10th day. In this case, since TCS will be applicable from October 1, e-tailers would have had to file their first set of returns by November 10. A few e-commerce companies are also looking at avenues for engaging with the government again to discuss the the ramification of this action. As mentioned in the FAQs, whenever the value of returned product is more than the supplies made during given time period, transaction value is being asked to be waived off/ignored. This is not practical, since in e-commerce sector such scenarios are an integral part, a business norm and many times such return shipments are required to be booked in subsequent months. Average Industry norm for such sales returns is 20-25 percent of shipped gross merchadise value (GMV). This will definitely create unjustified hardship and will cause massive reconciliation complexities. When the transaction is reversed, the TCS also has to follow the same path, another industry player said. Banks doing business in Estonia, which has been at the centre of a money-laundering scandal involving Danske Bank, handled more than $1 trillion in cross-border flows between 2008 and 2017, according to the country's central bank. The European Union member country has been rocked by revelations that banks there laundered money from Russia, Moldova and Azerbaijan via non-resident bank accounts. The scandal has forced lenders in Estonia and neighbouring Latvia to shut down. The central bank said that between 2008 and 2017, cross-border transactions totalled 1.1 trillion euros ($1.27 trillion). The number includes all flows, including resident and non-resident transactions, a spokesman said. The central bank did not say whether it considered any of the flows suspicious. Bloomberg on Wednesday reported figures from the central bank saying that Estonia handled about 900 billion euros in non-resident, cross-border transactions between 2008 and 2015. A central bank spokesman told Reuters the bank does not have specific data for non-resident transactions. Nordic banking shares fell after the Bloomberg report. Sweden's SEB and Swedbank, which both have banking operations in Estonia, were trading 5.4 percent and 7.2 percent lower, respectively. Swedbank's Baltic operations account for nearly one-fifth of its total operating profit, with Estonia its biggest market. Swedbank declined to comment. Figures reflecting the possible scale of money-laundering through Estonia have been emerging gradually over the last few months. In May, data from Estonia's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) showed that more than $13 billion had been laundered through banks in the country from 2012 to 2016, with at least 7.3 billion of that going through non-resident bank accounts. Last month, Denmark's Danske Bank said in an internal report that payments totalling 200 billion euros, many of which it described as "suspicious", had been moved through its Estonian branch between 2007 and 2015. That scandal led to Danske's chief executive stepping down and prompted regulators across the European Union to question the oversight of the bloc's financial sector. Exxon Mobil Corp is exploring the sale of many of its US Gulf of Mexico assets, as higher prices prompt the world's largest publicly traded oil company to review its portfolio, people familiar with the matter said on Tuesday. Major oil companies have been looking to concentrate development operations in a few key areas. Irving, Texas-based Exxon is focusing on promising acreage in offshore areas such as Guyana and Brazil and onshore in the Permian basin of Texas. Exxon has asked a small number of parties to gauge their potential interest in the company's Gulf assets, ahead of making a decision on how to proceed, according to two of the sources, adding that any sale would likely happen next year. The company is considering selling deepwater assets in the Gulf of Mexico that currently produce about 50,000 barrels per day of oil, one of the sources added. The company has stakes in Gulf assets that produce the equivalent of more than 200,000 barrels of oil per day and 730 million cubic feet of gas daily, according to company data. Exxon produces the equivalent of about 2.2 million barrels of oil daily. While Exxon is the most valuable publicly traded oil company, it is only the ninth-largest operator in the Gulf, trailing heavyweights like Royal Dutch Shell and BP Plc , along with smaller Gulf-focused independent oil companies like Fieldwood and Talos. The Gulf of Mexico, once considered a reliable basin for oil exploration and production, has become overshadowed by shale formations onshore and by new offshore plays like Guyana, where Exxon's giant Liza field is expected to produce 120,000 barrels per day of crude in its first phase. The sources asked not to be identified because the matter is confidential. Exxon did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Exxon's positions in the Gulf of Mexico include a 50 percent stake in development of the giant Julia oil field, and a 47 percent stake in the Hadrian South natural gas field, which it operates. The company also has a 9 percent piece of Heidelberg field and 23 percent of the Lucius oil and gas field, both of which are operated by Anadarko Petroleum Corp , according to Exxon's latest annual report. Exxon's partners in developing many of these sites could have a contractual right of first refusal on any opportunity to acquire Exxon's interest, one of the sources said. Exxon has sold 29 leases or stakes in leases to other companies since 2014, according to data from the US Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. The company has not acquired any leases from other companies in that period. In the last 10 federal lease sales of oil acreage, Exxon has bid on 28 leases, compared with rivals like BP, which has bid on 52 leases. Exxon shares were up 0.7 percent to $86.42 each on Tuesday. Shares have risen 6.5 percent this year, trailing broader equity averages. Qatar, which has a number of partnerships with Exxon, including in Brazil, would be well positioned to make an offer for the Gulf of Mexico assets, the sources said. Exxon has an extensive partnership with Qatar, including partnering with Qatar Petroleum [QATPE.UL] to develop the world's largest non-associated natural gas field off that country's coast. Qatar Petroleum also bought a 30 percent stake in two of Exxon's affiliates in Argentina in June, giving Qatar access to oil and gas shale assets in the Latin American country. Qatar Petroleum's chief executive told Reuters in May that the company was expanding its upstream business and assets abroad, particularly in the United States. Qatar Petroleum is the majority owner of the Golden Pass LNG terminal in Texas, with Exxon and ConocoPhillips holding smaller stakes. It could not be established whether Qatar will indeed make an offer. Qatar government officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. This week, Chevron Corp agreed to sell its North Sea holdings off the shore of Britain. The Centre is considering a Steel Ministry's proposal to first merge the loss-making Neelachal Ispat Nigam (NINL) with Rashtriya Ispat Nigam (RINL) and later merge it with Steel Authority of India (SAIL) to create a single state-owned steel manufacturer to bring in efficiency, reported The Financial Express. "There is scope for a merger of these companies. A detailed analysis needs to be done," an official told the paper. NINL incurred a net loss of Rs 378 crore, while RINL incurred a net loss of Rs 1,369 crore in FY18 due to a slowdown in the industry. Meanwhile, SAIL, the largest state-run steel maker, slimmed its losses by around 83 percent to Rs 482 crore in FY18. It reported a sales turnover of Rs 58,297 crore last fiscal, up 19 percent from FY17. The ministry has also suggested a consolidation of profitable iron ore mining companies such as National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) and KIOCL, formerly know as Kudremukh Iron Ore Company. NMDC reported a 47 percent jump in net profit at Rs 3,806 crore in FY18 and a 31.5 percent increase in revenues at Rs 11,615 crore. Meanwhile, KIOCL showed an impressive 70 percent increase in net profit at Rs 81 crore. Both these entities could be merged to create a single iron ore giant. In April, chiefs of central PSUs in a presentation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi had proposed the creation of public sector behemoths by consolidating firms based on commonalities of functions. The chiefs argued that it would benefit the economy, increase global competitiveness and open access to cheaper capital. They further added that an integration of central public sector enterprises (CPSEs) engaged in the same business line would limit the number of CPSEs in a sector and create profitable entities. These new entities would have the capacity to bear higher risks, take higher investment decisions and create more value for stakeholders. The chief reckoned that bigger entities would be able to raise cheaper funds and reduce their dependence on the government. (Image: HCL) live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More IT services major HCL Technologies on Wednesday said it has signed a five-year managed services deal with TransGrid, a high-voltage transmission network service provider for the state of New South Wales, Australia. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed. As part of the deal, HCL Technologies will create a transformation roadmap for TransGrid and provide outsourcing support for service desk operations, data centre operations, security, disaster recovery, end-user computing and applications, it said. "In an increasingly digitalised world, HCL's core capabilities in next-gen services such as digital, Internet of Things (IoT) and cybersecurity is best positioned to drive critical technology transformation and realise business success," HCL Technologies Senior Vice President (Australia) Michael Horton said. The deal highlights HCL's commitment to invest and drive growth in Australia, he added. HCL Technologies will also create a TransGrid Academy for cultural alignment and talent pool incubation as part of the engagement. Michael Milne, IT Operations Manager at TransGrid, said the partnership with HCL Technologies will help the company to provide safe, reliable and efficient transmission services. Hindustan Oil Exploration Company Ltd (HOEC) Wednesday said it has signed a revenue sharing contract with the government for an oil and gas block in Assam that it had won in the first round of Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP). The Block AA-ONHP-2017/19 extends to an area of 79 square kilometres and is located adjacent to Dirok field operated by HOEC, the company said in a regulatory filing to stock exchanges. "Dirok field and its extension through this Block AA-ONHP2017/19, forms one Greater Dirok Area that is part of a proven petroleum system. Since HOEC understands this basin well and has adequate data, we plan to fast-track the exploration phase to quickly monetise on success," it said. Dirok gas being rich, off take by consumers has been increasing month after month, confirming growing demand for gas in the Assam market. "Taking note of this, operating committee of the Dirok field consisting of Oil India, Indian Oil Corporation and HOEC reviewed and recommended a revised plan of development (RPoD) of AAP-ON-94/1 (Dirok field) for submission to the Directorate General of Hydrocarbon (DGH) during the meeting held at Chennai on September 28, 2018," HOEC said. RPoD considers that the estimated ultimate recovery (EUR) to be 305 billion cubic feet of gas against the EUR of 134.09 BCF in 2015 development plan. "The proposal recommended by the operating committee envisages to drill four new development wells and to explore a new prospect in the North of Dirok field within the existing area. "Overall, the RPoD targets to increase the gas production by about 55 million standard cubic feet per day from the current level of 35 mmscfd," it said. HOEC said schedule and costs of RPoD will be firmed up post independent review by DGH and on securing the approval of the management committee. P. Elango, Managing Director of HOEC, said, "Growing demand for gas and the North East Gas Grid being developed by the public sector oil and gas companies, opens up a new vista of opportunity for early monetisation of resources. HOEC is determined to lever its strength of early mover, by rapidly increasing its production from all the four of its north-east assets to garner a significant market share. The government's move to hike customs duties on certain product categories to prevent further widening of the current account deficit may have an upside for India's organised jewellery sector. Basic customs duty (BCD) on gold, which stands at 10 percent, hasn't been increased to keep smuggling of the yellow metal under check. India is among the highest importers of gold globally and settles such import transactions in US dollars. Therefore, if Indias macros continue to deteriorate, one cannot rule out the possibility of an increase in BCD on gold too. In this context, it is important to assess the consequent effect of this development on Titan, an industry leader in the jewellery space. Here's how things would pan out for the company under 3 different scenarios:- The impact While marginal custom duty hikes of 2-3 percent are likely to be passed on by Titan to customers, anything more could dent profitability in a noticeable manner. Organised jewellers will be forced to revise product prices upward on account of a steeper BCD on gold. As gold will be costlier to procure through official custom channels, illegal inflow into India will be triggered. Unorganised jewellers, that constitute a significant chunk of the industry size, would be able to source illegally procured gold at cheaper rates from entities that dont comply with official requirements. This gives them a pricing advantage over branded jewellers. In a bid to remain competitive and not lose out on market share, organised players will not be able to pass on the entire hike in BCD on gold to the consumers. Consequently, their margins will be compressed. What is Titan doing to trim the risk? Titan is undertaking efforts to increase the contribution of margin-accretive studded and wedding jewellery variants to annual turnover (from the current 30-35 percent mark). It is looking at increased spends on advertising and aggressive expansion of the Tanishq store network in smaller cities, mainly through the franchise-run route. The companys gold exchange programmes have been witnessing good traction in recent years. Of the total gold jewellery bought by Titans customers, purchases under the exchange schemes increased to over 40 percent from 15 percent in 2013. Customers tend to refurbish golden ornaments and convert them to new jewellery after design and quality refinement. Thus, for Titan, the need to source gold for manufacturing additional quantities of jewellery is reduced. Unsurprisingly, the management is shifting its attention on this front to keep dependence on gold imports low. Titan will foray into the silver jewellery segment in the next 3-6 months. Silver will be imported from nations like Thailand and transactions are likely to be settled in Indian Rupee. However, in the initial phase, the share of revenue from this will not be material enough to influence the companys overall financials. Why choose Titan? Even though jewellery remains of core importance to Titans success, the company has been gradually transitioning itself into a consumer-focused brand by foraying into new product categories. Besides tackling the typical seasonality associated with jewellery products (H2 of a fiscal year tends to be better than H1), the move would help the company leverage the strength of its brand across smaller segments. Adequate revenue visibility in terms of jewellery, improved watch designs and increased presence of the same in large format stores, distributor consolidation in the eyewear segment, scaling up of lifestyle businesses (sarees, cosmetics) and robust financials to fund future growth plans will augur well for Titan in the long-run. However, the likelihood of higher BCD on gold, reintroduction of Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) provisions and difficulties in normalising promotional costs/overheads (through the desired degree of revenue generation) could dampen earnings. The stock, despite its sharp correction and noticeable underperformance vis-a-vis the Nifty in the past 6 months, trades at 38 times its 2-year forward earnings. Though the valuation is far from cheap, the company undoubtedly has the moats to attract the attention of prospective investors. Follow @krishnakarwa152 IL&FS Transportation Networks | The company defaulted on the interest on non-convertible debentures due on August 25, 2020. (Image: Reuters) live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Lenders to the beleaguered IL&FS group are looking at a 10-15 percent haircut in many of its projects as buyers will bargain hard, The Economic Times reports. A group of banks, led by Bank of India (BoI) and State Bank of India (SBI), have lent IL&FS Rs 34,480 crore, which is a part of its consolidated debt of Rs 91,000 crore. BoI has the highest exposure to the debt-ridden firm with loans of Rs 2,388 crore, followed by SBI at Rs 2,140 crore and Punjab National Bank at Rs 1,859 crore. Yes Bank has the largest exposure within private sector banks, with loans worth Rs 1,841 crore, as per a Kotak Institutional Equities report. Experts believe the Centres decision to overhaul the companys board and appoint a new, six-member team led by Uday Kotak, has improved the lenders chances of recuperating their money, but haircuts are unavoidable, the report said. The loans will be restructured and the asset monetisation process will lead to a delay in payments, Abizer Diwanji, Partner, Financial Services at EY, told the paper. You also have to consider the mark-to-market losses on these loans. It is fair to assume some haircuts for lenders in the short term, he added. The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has ordered the newly-formed board to meet on or before October 8. The board is yet to come up with a financial plan which will include monetising some assets and restructuring loans. A banker with a UK-based bank which has an exposure of about Rs 200 crore told the paper that they are confident of recovery, now that the government has stepped it. They also deemed it premature to assume a haircut at present as government intervention has boosted creditor confidence. Others in the banking industry said open projects on the ground which can be monetised give the lenders confidence. Calling it a short term liquidity issue, bankers think this problem can be resolved through capital infusion and loans by government-backed entities. Also, there are many interested parties for IL&FS roads, power and energy-linked projects. Once the liquidity issue is resolved, the board will get more time and they can take a few months to a year to offload some projects, a banking official told the paper. Jet Airways owes banks nearly Rs 8,000 crore. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Beleaguered airline Jet Airways has initiated talks with GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS), the Irish-American commercial aircraft financing and leasing business, asking for an extension for paying aircraft leasing charges, Financial Express reported. Jet Airways had a board meeting on Monday, where the companys lease charges for 17 of its Boeing 737s were discussed, industry sources told FE. According to the report, Jet Airways is having trouble releasing one of its A330 widebody aircraft from Joramco, a Jordan-based aircraft maintenance facility, due to its default on engine lease payments. A company spokesperson, however, told the newspaper that the said aircraft is only undergoing scheduled maintenance at the facility. Etihad Airways bought a 24 percent stake in Jet Airways in 2013 for Rs 2,060 crore. Many of its leases are due for renewals and payments, a source close to the matter said. So, technically, Jet has not defaulted on any of these lease payments but it is finding it hard to meet its contractual obligations due to the financial troubles it is in. This is the reason why it is back on the negotiating table to rework these contracts and seek an extension to possibly avoid the worst an airline executive told the paper. There are clauses in lease agreements under which airlines can defer payments but it gives the lessor a right not to release the aircraft to the airline, as had happened with Vijay Mallyas now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. Sources said that GECAS has a strong commercial relationship with Jet Airways, as the financing company had committed to leasing 12 Boeing 737MAX-8 to the airline in April and the process has already begun. In its fleet, Jet has 225 aircraft of this type. As of June 2018, Jet Airways has a debt of Rs 8,620 crore of which Rs 1,968 is aircraft-related debt. With fuel prices going up over and over again, you might want to invest in cars that run on alternative fuels. Of course, electric is the newest way to go, but charging infrastructure is still in its infancy. CNG, on the other hand, is widely available. Here is a list of cars available in CNG variants. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Mahanagar Gas (MGL) has hiked the prices of compressed natural gas (CNG) by Rs 2.66 per kg and piped natural gas (PNG) by Rs 1.89 per standard cubic meter (SCM), amid rising fuel prices, effective October 2. The revised prices of CNG and domestic PNG, inclusive of all taxes, will be Rs 49.61 per kg and Rs 29.30 per SCM (Slab 1) and Rs 35/SCM (Slab 2), respectively, in Mumbai. This hike would have a 'marginal' impact of Rs 0.10 per km and Rs 0.13 per km on the running costs of autorickshaws and taxis, respectively, according to MGL. Even after the revision, MGLs CNG still continues to be a very attractive proposition and offers savings of about 61 percent and 38 percent as compared to petrol and diesel, respectively, at current price levels in Mumbai, MGL said in a statement. Following this hike, taxi and auto unions in Mumbai demanded a hike in fares and warned of protests if the demands arent fulfilled. Mumbai Taximens Union head Anthony Quadros told Mid-Day , We want the minimum fare to be revised to Rs 25. We have kept quiet all these months, but now it will become unaffordable to drive taxis and we are going to agitate. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Bharat Forge share price fell 2.6 percent intraday Wednesday after the decline in North America Class 8 truck orders. North America Class 8 truck orders moderated in September after consistent rise on month-on-month basis for last six months. Class 8 truck orders slowed down to 42,800 units in September after clocking more than 50,000 units orders each in July and August, reports CNBC-TV18. Truck orders declined 19.4 percent compared to 53,100 units in August but increased 93.8 percent compared to 22,082 units sold in September 2017. Kalyani group's auto ancillary company gets 12 percent sales from North America truck market. At 10:31 hours IST, the stock price was quoting at Rs 611.45, down Rs 13.30, or 2.13 percent on the BSE. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Shares of Hindustan Construction Company (HCC) gained more than 4 percent intraday Wednesday after company's JV has been awarded a contract worth Rs 2,126 crore. In a joint venture with Hyundai Development Corporation (HDC), the company has been awarded Rs 2,126 crore contract by the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM), for design and construction of the Mumbai Coastal Road Project, Package II. Company's share in the JV is 55 percent (Rs 1,169 crore) and the project is to be completed in 4 years (48 months). The scope of work includes design and construction of road, bridges, interchanges including reclamation and associated works between Baroda Palace near Haji Ali and the Worli end of Bandra Worli Sea Link. Arjun Dhawan, Director & Group Chief Executive Officer, HCC, said "For company, this prestigious and technically challenging project is a matter of immense pride and a natural extension of the Bandra Worli Sea Link constructed by it." At 11:57 hrs Hindustan Construction Company was quoting at Rs 11.42, up Rs 0.25, or 2.24 percent on the BSE. For more market news, click here Posted by Rakesh Patil live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Shares of IL&FS group stocks including ILandFS Investment Managers, ILandFS Transportation Networks and ILandFS Engineering were trading higher by 10-20 percent after government took control of IL&FS board. The government has taken control of Infrastructure Leasing & Finance (IL&FS) after getting an approval from the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Court in Mumbai. The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) allowed the government to constitute a new board for the debt-strapped lender, asking it to devise a plan for the group and file a response by October 15. Also Read - IL&FS timeline: When and what happened so far The new board will be headed by Kotak Mahindra Banks CEO and Managing Director Uday Kotak along with five other members - ICICI Bank Chairman Girish Chandra Chaturvedi, former head of the Securities and Exchange Board of India GN Bajpai, former IAS officer and Tech Mahindra chief Vineet Nayyar and former IAS officers Malini Shankar and Nanda Kishore. The tribunal will next hear the matter on October 31. Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services (IL&FS) is the promoter and majority shareholder of IL&FS Transportation Networks (ITNL) and ITNL is the promoter of Noida Toll Bridge Company. Nomura feels that government stepping in IL&FS issue is a welcome step and will watch who provides liquidity in the near term. Real value of assets and the level of haircuts is required. Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank are the top bets, it added. At 09:20 hrs ILandFS Engineering was quoting at Rs 19.22, up 19.98 percent, ILandFS Investment Managers was quoting at Rs 9.43, up 9.91 percent and ILandFS Investment Managers was quoting at Rs 9.43, up 9.91 percent on the BSE. Noida Toll Bridge Company was quoting at Rs 8.15, up Rs 0.28, or 3.56 percent. October 03, 2018 / 06:19 PM IST Rupee Closing Indian rupee ended at a record closing low of 73.34 per dollar on Wednesday on the back of strong demand for US dollar from importers amid rising global oil prices. It has touched a record low of 73.41 in the morning trade, while it saw some recovery during the day after it opened lower at 73.24 against Monday's close of 72.91 per dollar. According to IFA Global currency report, higher crude prices would continue to weigh on domestic bonds and the rupee. The next domestic trigger would be the tone of the RBI policy on Friday. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Share price of Tata Motors slipped more than 1 percent intraday Wednesday as company posted declines in its JLR sales numbers for the month of September. In the month of September 2018 Tata Motors' total JLR US sales were down 7.2 percent at 9,006 units against 9,703 units in the same month last year. Its total Jaguar US sales fell 38.1 percent at 2,040 units versus 3,296 units, while Land Rover US sales were up 8.7 percent at 6,966 units versus 6,407 units, reported CNBC-TV18. The company's domestic sales in September 2018, grew by 20 percent at 64,598 units compared to 53,964 units over the previous year. The cumulative domestic sales performance (April-September 2018) witnessed a strong growth of 40 percent with 339,352 units as compared to 242,787 units in the same period last year. At 09:42 hrs Tata Motors was quoting at Rs 226.45, down Rs 2.80, or 1.22 percent on the BSE. For more market news, click here Posted by Rakesh Patil File Photo: A security guard stands outside a closed Yes Bank branch in New Delhi live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Yes Bank share price surged 10.7 percent intraday Wednesday after the management in its conference call looked confident about healthy growth in Q2 and said the succession planning for new MD & CEO is underway. The stock price was quoting at Rs 215.60, up Rs 14.40, or 7.16 percent on the BSE at 11:59 hours IST. While maintaining a Buy call on the stock with a target price of Rs 350 (implying 74 percent potential upside for a period of one year), Motilal Oswal said the process to select the new MD & CEO should be over by first week of December and the incumbent MD & CEO should join earliest by Jan-19, if all the processes and RBI approval are received in time. While the near term uncertainty will remain till the new management takes charge and enunciates the business strategy, the research house believes that post sharp correction the stock is trading at reasonable valuations. Overall the stock has corrected by 55 percent since the RBI notification which allowed Rana Kapoor to continue as MD & CEO until January 2019. Though the bank has applied for an extension of Rana Kapoor for three months until April 2019 (further extension of six months requested for until September 2019), the process of succession planning is already underway by the bank. Yes has established a Search and Selection Committee comprising of three existing Nomination & Remuneration Committee Board Members plus two external experts which will be finalised over next one week. Though the management has not yet seen any adverse impact on the overall business they however have been monitoring situation closely and have guided for stable asset quality, credit cost trend, Motilal Oswal said. As per the Q2FY19 unaudited numbers shared in the press release total deposits grew around 41 percent YoY to Rs 2.23 lakh crore with a CASA ratio of around 33.8 percent (growth of around 28 percent YoY). Yes indicated that deposit balance in September has been higher than August. Loans & Advances grew by around 61.5 percent YoY (across the Corporate, IBU, MSME and Retail segments) to around Rs 2.4 lakh crore as on Q2FY19 (versus Rs 2.14 lakh crore, up 12 percent QoQ) of which domestic advances aggregated to around Rs 2.2 lakh crore (growth of around 56.4 percent YoY). Gross NPA stood at around 1.35 percent of gross advances vis-a-vis 1.82 percent as on September 30, 2017. Deutsche Bank, which has a Buy call with a target price of Rs 310 (implying 54 percent potential upside), said the growth is excessively high for Q2 and the management looked confident on asset quality. "Improving corporate cycle also gives us some comfort." Management on October 1 said the asset quality continued to be stable and reiterated its credit cost guidance at 50-70 bps for FY19 (76 bps for FY18). ICICI Securities also enthused with this incremental clarity by management of the Yes Bank and retained its Buy rating on the stock. Management has already guided for stable credit costs, which means the divergence outcome should be similar in terms of impact despite a higher gross divergence like FY17, Investec said. The events risks associated around divergence and top management uncertainty means the market is going to ignore facts and numbers and focus more on news flow and sentiments, it feels. Hence the research house believes risk-reward is extremely favourable and hence recommend buying Yes Bank at the current valuations with a target price of Rs 430 (implying potential upside of 113.7 percent). "At CMP, Yes is trading at 1.5x trailing P/B which is the bottom, last seen during the FY14-15 period." Global brokerage house HSBC has also maintained its Buy rating and target price of Rs 378 (implying 88 percent potential upside). "Yes Bank has maintained growth momentum in Q2FY19, with stable asset quality. However, in the coming 3-6 months we expect the focus will be on CEO succession and capital preservation. At 1.6x (FY19 BVPS) the stock is inexpensive," it reasoned. However,. Pace of loan growth is likely to slow partly due to base effect and credible replacement for CEO role will be an upside risk, it said. Yogesh Patil has resigned as fund manager of Canara Robeco Mutual Fund's Canara Robeco Infrastructure Fund, the fund house said in an addendum. Canara Robeco Mutual Fund has appointed Shridatta Bhandwaldar as Patil's replacement. All other features of the scheme remain unchanged. Invesco Mutual Fund has sought the Securities and Exchange Board of India's approval to launch Invesco India Equity Savings Fund, according to the draft offer document on SEBIs website. The open-ended scheme will invest 25-75 percent of its asset in derivatives including index futures, stock futures, index options and stock options, among others. The fund will also deploy 15-40 percent of its corpus in equities and 10-35 percent in debt and money market instruments. * Plans: Regular and direct* Options: Growth and dividend* Minimum investment: Rs 5,000 and in multiples of Re 1 thereafter* Exit load: 1 percent if units are redeemed or switched-out on or before one year from the date of allotment* Performance benchmark: NIFTY Equity Savings Index* Fund managers: Taher Badshah, Amit Ganatra, Krishna Cheemalapati, and NeeleshDhamnaskar The National Company Law Tribunals (NCLT) Allahabad bench on October 3 heard a plea filed by the consortium of nine Jaypee homebuyers associations. They sought the release of Rs 750 crore, deposited by Jaiprakash Associates (JAL) with the Supreme Court and later transferred to NCLT, to complete construction of projects. They also sought direction on the voting arrangement in the committee of creditors meetings through a separate plea. The NCLT said it will look at the request for release of Rs 750 crore in detail. It also issued a notice to the resolution professional (IRP), members of the committee of creditors (CoC) and Jaiprakash Associates (JAL), and directors and promoters of JIL to file their response to this appeal, sources said. The NCLT maintained a similar stance on the second plea pertaining to the voting arrangement. It said the matter needs detailed consideration while asking members of the CoC to file their response. The next date of hearing has been fixed for October 16, sources said. We hope that the NCLT takes a decision quickly on the matter concerning the release of Rs 750 crore so that construction of flats and deliveries can be expedited. This will go a long way in alleviating their pain," homebuyers said in their response. "In the current voting paradigm, it is difficult to pass any resolution. It will be good if a clear direction is given on how the voting has to proceed. A precedent has been set in the AMR case. What we as homebuyers want is that our vote share should not be diluted and at the same time the process should move quickly. Till the time a clarification is not issued, holding CoC meetings and furthering the process will be worthless, they said. Counsel for the insolvency resolution professional Anuj Jain, Sumant Batra said: the resolution professional will welcome the funds to be released to the company as that would be of great help in accelerating the construction of the flats. In the AMR Infrastructure case earlier this week, the NCLT had ruled it will appoint a resolution professional even though half of the homebuyers voted for resolution as against the stipulated requirement of a 66 percent backing. NCLT noted the objective of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code is to arrive at a resolution and prevent liquidation. It was hearing the AMR Infrastructure case involving 906 buyers, including 236 for residential projects. This could have a bearing on other cases such as the Jaypee case and the Amrapali matter as there is still confusion over the voting arrangement of homebuyers in the CoC. Last month, Jaypee Infratech homebuyers had written to Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), Chairperson MS Sahoo highlighting their problem. We may have a 62 percent say in the committee of creditors, but this voting share does not guarantee that the resolution plan will sail through, they had said in the letter. "Even if all the financial creditors and the interested HBs vote in favour of a resolution plan, the resolution plan is bound to fail as it would not receive legally mandated voting percentage of 66 percent," read the homebuyers' letter on the insolvency proceedings of Jaypee Infratech Limited. Homebuyers pointed out that even in the "best-case scenario", no resolution could be passed with 66 percent votes or rejected with 51 percent. The method of computing voting percentage needs immediate attention, the letter mentioned and pointed out that in the recent elections, over 14,500 homebuyers did not exercise their voting rights. "We understand based on publicly available information that the resolution professionals have been taking into account, all creditors who abstain from voting in the CoC, for purposes of determining the voting percentage of the creditors. If a similar approach is adopted (and which is likely to happen) in the CIRP of JIL, it is evident that the HBs voting share would be significantly diluted," the letter continued. In August this year, the apex court had said that the insolvency proceedings against Jaypee Infratech will be dealt with by the Allahabad bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). The court had ordered the reconstitution of the companys Committee of Creditors in light of recent amendments to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) that permit homebuyers to be a part of the resolution process. The Rs 750 crore that Jaiprakash Associates had deposited with the Supreme Courts registry were also transferred to the NCLT. The NCLT had on August 10 last year, admitted IDBI Banks plea to initiate insolvency proceedings against the JIL for defaulting on Rs 526-crore loan. While admitting the plea of IDBI Bank, the NCLT had appointed Anuj Jain as IRP to manage the companys business. IL&FS Transportation Networks | The company defaulted on the interest on non-convertible debentures due on August 25, 2020. (Image: Reuters) The Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) has started questioning the top executives of Infrastructure Leasing & Finance (IL&FS) and searching the premises of the company, reported The New Indian Express. SFIO's move comes a day after the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) allowed the government to constitute a new board for the debt-strapped lender, asking it to devise a plan for the group and file a response by October 15. The investigative body has questioned former Vice Chairman and Managing Director Hari Sankaran and joint MD and Chief Executive Officer Arun Saha about the boards role in the financial mismanagement, the report said. Read IL&FS crisis: MCA ensured swift change of guard with FinMin in agreement On October 2, a team of SFIO officials swarmed into IL&FS' office in Mumbai and took control of the server to ensure that no documents were destroyed, the report said. During the search, they questioned the top management of the firm and collected documents and pen drives. A few more executives will likely come under scanner in the coming days as SFIO may also question the directors and top management of the financial company who were appointed or have left or had been sacked in last one year, the report said. Read IL&FS timeline: When and what happened so far SFIO has already requested Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) for hiring more chartered accountants for the probe, the report said. Look out notices have been put out at airports against IL&FS' top management including Sankaran, former MD Ramesh Bawa, and Director K Ramchand. A look out circular is used by authorities to check whether a travelling person is wanted by the police. Read IL&FS board revamp: Govt is cleaning up financial institutions, says SBI Chairman Ravi Parthasarathy resigned in July, while Bawa, Non-Executive Director Vibhav Kapoor, and four independent directors of IL&FS Financial Services had resigned after a default last month. Meanwhile, five former independent directors RC Bhargava, Michael Pinto, Jaithirth Rao and Rina Kamath has written to newly appointed non-executive Chairman Uday Kotak extending all their support. The finance company has defaulted on seven debt repayments between September 12 and 27. The defaults were five bank loans, one deposit, and one short-term deposit. As on March 31, IL&FS' total outstanding debt stood at Rs 91,091.31 crore at the group level, with most of its operating assets owned by its subsidiaries. Around Rs 5,756 crore worth of debt is due for repayment over the next one year. Amid the marketing blitz ahead of the festive season sales, e-commerce giants Amazon and Flipkart seem to have stepped on the wrong side of the law. They are offering Rs 60,000 as credit to consumers under their cardless scheme and are seeking Aadhaar details of customers, days after the Supreme Court said private companies cannot insist on Aadhaar. Hey @Flipkart even after Supreme Court judgement how are u demanding Aadhaar number of customers? And doing Aadhaar verification using mobile OTP ? Don't you know Supreme Court has barred private companies to use Aadhaar of citizens ? Don't you know it's illegal now ? pic.twitter.com/XSAyiEqvxX Shailendra (@I_have_to_ask) September 30, 2018 The issue came to light after a Twitter user said he was asked for his Aadhaar card details while applying for Flipkart's cardless credit offer. In order to tap customers who do not have debit or credit cards, both e-tailers have launched a cardless credit card this festive season. Companies are offering customers credit up to Rs 60,000 depending on their shopping and payment patterns. Customers will get to know their approved credit limit after signing up. For signing up, they need to submit their pan card and Aaadhaar details. The Supreme Court delivered its judgment on petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Aadhaar Act last month. A five-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra and justices AK Sikri, AM Khanwilkar, DY Chandrachud and Ashok Bhushan ruled that Aadhaar will stay, but with conditions. The bench stressed that Aadhaar is meant to help benefits reach the marginalised sections of society. However, it also read down certain sections of the Act. The national security exception under Section 33 was struck down. Section 57 was also read down, which means that private companies cannot insist on the Aadhaar details of customers. Despite the ruling, Flipkart, which was acquired by Walmart earlier this year, and US-headquartered rival Amazon are seeking Aadhaar details to offer cardless credit to their customers. The two companies did not respond to the emails sent by Moneycontrol. According to legal experts, the judgement has lots of ambiguity and can potentially provide conflicting signals. "The ruling says that if a person voluntarily wants to provide his/her Aadhaar details as proof of identity, there may not be a problem. Therefore, each side have their own justification," said a corporate lawyer. "The more prudent way forward would be to approach the Supreme Court and seek a clarification. There is a possibility that because of the huge length and breadth of the decision, there could be a possible unintended disconnect. So, it is better to put this to rest," he added. The ruling has indeed impacted banking and telecom companies who were using the identity framework for authentication. According to a media report, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has no plans to come up with a list of clarification on implementation of the court's order. The report quoted Ajay Bhushan Pandey, Chief Executive Officer of UIDAI, as saying that it is up to the companies and their sector regulators to implement the court's order banning private companies from using the identity framework for authentication. "This is because they are in the best position to know exactly what kind of operations they are running, for what purpose they are collected and used, and if they did so, then how to replace the Aadhaar eKYC with other valid documents so to comply with the orders of the court and their regulators and ensure continuity of service to their customers," he was quoted as saying in the report. Oyo After Delhi High Court and a Gurgaon court adjudicated the case in favour of SoftBank-backed hospitality firm Oyo, Zostel has moved the Supreme Court. The apex court has also appointed an arbitrator, Oyo said on Tuesday. The issues between the two companies date back to 2015 when Zo Rooms, the budget hotel accommodation chain owned by Zostel Hospitality, was shut down after merger talks between the two companies failed. The deal was expected to be an asset sale with Zo Rooms founders and lead investor Tiger Global receiving a combined stake of 7 percent in Oyo. The deal never took place, fuelling a bitter war between the two parties. Oyo backed off from the deal talks citing liabilities of Zo Rooms. Oyo claims that it had identified several issues during the due diligence process, where significant liabilities and unpaid dues, as well as undisclosed contingent liabilities came to the fore. Complaints and counter complaints followed and in January 2018, Oyo filed a criminal complaint against the founders of Zostel. The case pertained to criminal breach of trust, cheating, and misrepresentation of data. Prior to this, Oyo had also filed other criminal cases under under IT and copyright acts with the Economic Offences Wing and cybercrime department against senior employees of Zostel for stealing data and other assets. One the other hand, Zostel alleged that Oyo stole data while conducting due diligence of Zo Rooms during merger talks. "As a per of order, the court has also expressly observed that merely because the court is appointing arbitrator does not mean that the court is accepting that the disputes or the claims raised by Zostel are arbitrable. Please note, the arbitration proceedings will not have any bearing on the other suits that have been filed by Oyo against Zostel. We are confident that as in the past we will be able to defend our position before the honorable arbitrator successfully and prove that these claims are unfounded," Oyo said in a statement. "Zo is extremely relieved to finally get a forum to present all facts and data related the entire business transfer of Zo (its employees, properties, bookings, IP and data) to Oyo with honorable SC allowing our petition for arbitration. Also, for what was touted as a non-binding term sheet under the garb of which Oyo had been resiling from the promised contractual terms, the honorable Supreme Court bench has observed in its judgment that a binding arbitration clause exists between the two parties as per the term sheet post which the entire business transfer of Zo took place," Zostel said in a statement. "We welcome the appointment of Honorable Ex-Chief Justice of India Justice AM Ahmadi and look forward to opening the huge data room of facts and evidences supporting the business transfer and our claims. We strongly believe in Justice Ahmadi's most sought after guidance and experience in arbitration matters. Justice will prevail and the aggrieved will get its dues no matter how many frivolous cases and other harassment tactics are used to muzzle our voice," it added. Moneycontrol has a copy of the court's order dated September 19. Starbucks (Image: Reuters) Tata Starbucks on Wednesday announced appointment of Navin Gurnaney as the new chief executive beginning January 1, 2019, to replace Sumitro Ghosh, who is returning to the US for a role within Starbucks. Gurnaney will be the third head of the company since its entry in October 2012 and will be responsible for driving the overall strategic direction and vision and further strengthening business. He is returning to Starbucks after first joining in 2004 where he was a leader on US business for eight years. Starbucks entered the domestic market in October 2012 through an equal joint venture with Tata Global Beverages and currently operates 128 stores. The security establishment in New Delhi is concerned about reports that China is turning Gonggar airport in Lhasa into a military airbase, reports Hindustan Times citing officials privy to the matter. The airport located in the capital city of Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) was built in 1965. It is meant to be a civilian airport opened to boost regional connectivity. However, the neighbouring country has now constructed underground bomb-proof shelters to house fighter jets at the place, claimed the officials. As per the report, a "taxi track" has been built that leads from the airstrip to bomb-proof hangars. These hangars, which have been constructed deep inside the mountains nearby, can house around three squadrons of fighter jets or about 36 aircraft at a time. According to an official, such bomb-proof hangars are needed for fighters when a country prepares for possible hostilities. They are vulnerable to attacks, if kept in open. When required, they are pulled out of the shelters and launched, the official added. What makes this action a concern for India is the fact that the Gonggar airport is only 1,350 km away from New Delhi. Chinas Air Force already has similar facilities along its border with Russia. In addition to the above concern, New Delhi is also worried about augmentation of Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) bases near some of the airfields and their expansion along with helicopter bases. It includes augmentation of the SAM base near the Shigatse airfield situated across Sikkim. This news has emerged amid talks between the two countries to work towards firming up a new bilateral pact on defence cooperation and increase interaction between their militaries at multiple levels to avoid Doklam-like standoffs along the disputed border. US President Donald Trump, whom India had invited to be the chief guest of its Republic Day in January 2019, may not be able attend, according to a report by Mint. The report suggests that Trump could deny Indias invitation because of a packed domestic calendar. Trump will be occupied with the midterm elections in November and is expected to deliver the State of the Union address between January 21 and January 29. The report cites officials as saying that Trumps presidential visit to India in January for the Republic Day parade seems to be far-fetched as of now. India had invited President Trump to India during Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to the US in June 2017. This invitation was later converted into an invite for the 2019 Republic Day parade. If Trump attends the parade, he would become the second US president to be the chief guest of the annual parade that happens in New Delhis Rajpath. In 2015, Barack Obama became the first US President to attend the parade that aims at displaying Indias cultural diversity and military advancement. Generally, chief guests of the parade are heads of states of countries that are strategically important to India, or heads of neighbouring countries. The 2018 Republic Day parade was attended by heads of the ten Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries. In September, a top Trump Administration official had said that Trump looks forward to visiting India to reflect on the "amazingly positive" trajectory in the India-US relationship. The official, however, did not offer further details as to when the president's trip to India will take place. petrol diesel price hike Pattali Makkal Katchi Wednesday said it would a hold protest demonstration on October 5 across Tamil Nadu to condemn the unprecedented hike in fuel prices. PMK's founder leader Dr S Ramadoss will preside over the protest at Tindivanam and party president GK Mani will lead the stir here, a party release said. "People should be apprised about the impact of the hike in petrol and diesel prices and they too should be exhorted to take part in the protest," a party release said. The price of petrol today in Tamil Nadu is Rs 87.18 and diesel Rs 79.58 (per litre). Rahul Gandhi, Vice President of India's ruling Congress party waves to his party supporters during a rally ahead of general elections in New Delhi April 6, 2014. To match Insight INDIA-CONGRESS/ REUTERS/Anindito Mukherjee/File Photo - S1BETFPEYVAA Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his BJP counterpart Amit Shah will be visiting Madhya Pradesh on October 6 ahead of the Assembly elections which are due by year-end. While Gandhi will be in the BJP-ruled state for only one day, Shah will be making multiple visits over the next few days to meet party workers, respective spokespersons of the two parties said. The Congress chief will arrive in Morena via Gwalior on October 6 to take part in Ekta Parishad conclave, a party spokesperson said. He will proceed to Jabalpur on the same day where he will perform 'Narmada Puja' at Gwari Ghat and later hold a roadshow. Gandhi will also speak at a public meeting at Raddi Chowk in Jabalpur in the evening before leaving for Delhi. The BJP president will visit Indore on October 6 where he will meet party workers of Indore and Ujjain regions, a BJP spokesperson said. Shah will visit Gwalior on October 9 to meet party workers from Gwalior and Chambal regions. On October 14, he will interact with workers from Sagar, Bhopal and Hoshangabad regions and the next day he will meet BJP cadres of Rewa, Shahdol and Jabalpur, the spokesperson said. Justice Ranjan Gogoi was sworn in as the Chief Justice of India (CJI) on October 3 by President Ram Nath Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi. Born on November 18, 1954, Gogoi is the 46th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India (SC). Former CJI Dipak Misra's tenure ended on October 2. Gogoi's tenure as the CJI will continue till November 17, 2019, a day before he turns 65 years old. Ex-Assam CM's son His father Keshab Chandra Gogoi served as the ninth Chief Minister of Assam in 1982 and was a Congress politician. Keshab Gogoi was also a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the state's Dibrugarh constituency. Rise to the top court Gogoi joined the Bar in 1978 and practiced in the Gauhati High Court. He was made a Permanent Judge there on February 28, 2001. He was transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court on September 9, 2010 and became the Chief Justice there. Gogoi first became a judge of the Supreme Court on April 23, 2012. Key cases pending before the CJI Gogoi is expected to preside over several major cases during his tenure, including the Ram Janmaboomi-Babri Masjid title suit and the National Register for Citizens (NRC). The Supreme Court is monitoring the compilation of the NRC in Assam. It has ordered re-verification of 10 percent of the people in Assam, who were excluded from draft NRC published earlier this year. A three-judge bench will hear the Ayodhya case starting October 29. As a Supreme Court judge Gogoi presided over several key cases, including the case regarding re-assessment of actor Amitabh Bachchan's income for the year 2002-03, advocate Kamini Jaiswal's petition seeking a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into attacks on former Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) student union leader Kanhaiya Kumar, and the Soumya case pertaining to the rape and murder of a 23-year-old woman in Kerala. In what was possibly the first such instance in India's judicial history, the top court issued a contempt notice against a former SC judge Markandey Katju over a blog he had written criticising judges. The bench was presided over by Gogoi. However, the contempt case was dropped in 2017 after receiving Katju's apology. Unprecedented press conference Gogoi was one of the four SC Justices to hold an unprecedented press conference on January 12, openly speaking about issues hampering proceedings at the top court, and alleging failure in the justice delivery system and allocation of cases. Gogoi, along with Justices J Chelameswar, MB Lokur, and Kurian Joseph questioned allocation of cases by CJI Misra, who is the 'master of the roster'. Following Justice Chelameswar's retirement on June 30, Gogoi became the second senior-most SC judge. CJI Ranjan Gogoi Gogoi on Misra However, on October 1, Gogoi praised outgoing CJI Misra, saying that his greatest contribution has been to civil liberties and cited his recent verdicts in this regard. "If we fail in endeavour to hold true to our Constitutional ideals, we will continue to kill, hate each other", Gogoi said, adding that judges at the top court are all committed and that they will remain committed. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on October 3 said the country should make efforts to continue oil supplies from Iran against the backdrop of US sanctions as Iranian oil is the cheapest it could get. As per the sanctions, any country or company that violates the sactions can itself come under it, he said. The European Union (EU) has come up with a collective position saying they will work out their own arrangements to trade with Iran despite the sanctions and in Euros rather than in dollars, he said. It will be interesting to see how that works and whether there is some way for a country like India, he said. "For us, Iranian oil is the cheapest and easiest oil to get," said Tharoor, Chairman of Standing Committee on External Affairs. It would be expensive for the country if it ends up buying American oil (stopping supplies from Iran), he said. "I don't want to give you a definitive answer. Because, I am not in the government. I don't know what the government is thinking," he said. Tharoor, however, said the country should resist for as long as possible having to stop supplies from Iran. "Keep it going for as long as possible. But, in the end, explore and we can find another way of sustaining those supplies rather than giving in to the US and ending up having to pay much more for our oil," he said. Tharoor, who was speaking at an interactive session at the Indian School of Business (ISB), was replying to a question on India vis-a-vis US sanctions. About the recent Supreme Court verdict permitting women of all ages to enter the Lord Ayyappa shrine at Sabarimala, he said an issue that confronted the court in deciding the case was, "does the yardstick of rational legislation and constitutional reasoning apply to matters of faith." A woman judge dissented in the matter saying Constitutional reasoning cannot be applied to issues of faith, he said. Every time any historic change came, there were a lot of traditionalists who resisted, Tharoor said. "...Those women who do feel very strongly that this is wrong, need not go. The court's judgement does not require anyone to go to Sabarimala. It just says if you want to go, you can no longer be prevented on the grounds of...I think that's the judgment that we all have to follow," he said. BSP Chief Mayawati,congress bsp alliance Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on October 3 lashed out at the Indian National Congress and said her party will fight the upcoming assembly polls alone. The BSP supremo said, I want to make it clear that BSP will never contest in any election in alliance with the Congress. Mayawati said Congress had not learnt from election losses in the past. This is because, from the behaviour of the Congress party, it seems as though more than trying to defeat the BJP, they are bent on defeating the BSP movement, Mayawati said. Mayawati claimed only BSPs vote is transferrable in the entire country. Taking a jibe at the Congress, Mayawati said there was chaos everywhere because of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s rule and yet, Congress had not learnt any lesson from the past. Mayawati accused the Congress of trying to suppress opposition parties. "They are losing state after state. Congress always tries to defeat its partners rather than trying to defeat the BJP," Mayawati said. The BSP supremo said Congress has a misunderstanding that it can alone defeat BJP. Mayawati, however, said she feels Congress President Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi may want an alliance between Congress and BSP in some states for the upcoming Assembly elections and subsequently for the Lok Sabha polls. I feel that Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi's intentions for the Congress-BSP alliance are honest, she said. However, Mayawati added that some Congress leaders were sabotaging the Congress-BSP alliance talks. Congress leaders like Digvijaya Singh do not wish well for a Congress-BSP alliance, she said, according to news agency ANI. They are afraid of agencies like Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), she added. Mayawati had earlier announced that BSP would not ally with the Congress in Chhattisgarh and would instead tie up with former chief minister Ajit Jogis Janta Congress Chhattisgarh (JCC) in the upcoming assembly election. Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said, The leader of BSP has expressed mutual respect for RaGa and Sonia. That is the most important point. If the leaders have an amicable and respectable relationship with each other, then the minor creases can be ironed out. Alliances cannot be made or broken at press conferences." The doors to making an alliance are still open depending upon the strength of a party and the electorate of the region. Those who want to join us are welcome, and those who do not can lead their own way," he added. Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Rajasthan and possibly Telangana, are expected to head for assembly polls later this year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a public rally in Ajmer on Saturday on the completion of Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje's 'Gaurav Yatra' which she had begun in August, a party functionary said Wednesday. The prime minister will also visit the Brahma temple in Pushkar, the party's state chief Madan Lal Saini said. "Nearly three lakh party workers will attend the historic rally in Ajmer," Saini said at a press conference here. He said Modi will guide the party workers with regards to the upcoming Assembly polls in the state. Saini said Raje's yatra which began from the Charbhujanath temple in Rajsamand district under Udaipur division has received a good response. As the chief minister was not able to cover Bharatpur division during her yatra, she will later hold public dialogues there, he said. BJP president Amit Shah will address 'Shakti Kendra Sammelan' in Sikar and 'SC Sammelan' in Bikaner on Thursday. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Tech Mahindra on October 3 said it has partnered with Israel-based ELTA Systems, to provide cyber solutions to government and enterprise customers in India and around the world. ELTA Systems is a unit of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), which would enable the partnership to access IAI's national-grade cybersecurity capabilities, and Tech Mahindra's cyber expertise to address cyberthreats of the future. "This strategic partnership will herald a new chapter in tackling the advanced global cybersecurity threats in todays digital age, by developing a future ready cybersecurity framework. The partnership with IAI will be a multiplier force for Tech Mahindras robust cyber security expertise world over," said CP Gurnani, Chief Executive Officer, Tech Mahindra. Tech Mahindra's Security Operations Center (SOC) capabilities, along with IAIs cyberintelligence and defence products, its proven methodology and constant innovation will come together to establish new services in areas of cyberintelligence, protection, monitoring, identification and integrated cyberresilience. The solutions will help governments, organizations and critical infrastructure to keep pace with emerging cyberthreats. "We are confident that Mahindras experienced cyber security professionals will equip IAI with a sustainable competitive advantage, improving our ability to scale rapidly and prevent cyber-attacks with cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions," said Esti Peshin, Vice President and General Manager of IAIs Cyber Division. Israel is also considered one of the most formidable countries in the field of cybersecurity, after the United States. A big part of the partnership will be the skilling and re-skilling of employees at Tech Mahindra, who will learn from the training platform of IAI. The company has looked at its existing portfolio of employees and will soon look to plug the gaps wherever required, said Rajiv Singh, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Cybersecurity unit of Tech Mahindra. The partnership will look to provide a holistic end-to-end approach that serves defence forces, governments, critical infrastructures and large enterprises with state-of-the art cyber security and monitoring capabilities. "IAI's practical experience of protecting governments around the world from cyber-attacks, as well as a hands-on and operational experience in cyber threat intelligence solutions, training, digital forensics, communication security and cyber security will compliment Tech Mahindras established cyber security practice. Together we will create elite cyber warriors and AI based defence capabilities to combat advanced cyber threats and cyber-crime faced by Government entities and Police forces," Singh added. The partnership will look at providing cyber security solutions for banking, insurance, telecom, critical infrastructure, utility and other sectors across the globe. IAI is Israel's largest aerospace and defence Company, specialising in developing and manufacturing advanced state-of-the-art systems for air, space, sea, land, cyber and homeland security. Judges at the International Court of Justice, the highest United Nations court, will rule Wednesday on an Iranian plea to have US sanctions against Tehran lifted. Iran asked the ICJ, which is also known as the World Court, to order Washington to suspend the sanctions temporarily while it hears Iran's case in full, a process that could take years. Washington says that Iran's request is an attempt to misuse the court. Iran has invoked a little known 1955 Treaty of Amity that was signed before Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution, which caused a sharp deterioration in bilateral ties that has endured until today. US State Department Legal Adviser Jennifer Newstead argued during oral hearings last month that the 1955 treaty specifically rules out using courts to resolve disputes. Iran's real quarrel, she argued, is not within the court's jurisdiction, but Iran's frustration over US President Donald Trump's plan to pull out of a 2015 pact between Iran, the US and other major world powers. That pact saw sanctions against Tehran lifted in return for it accepting curbs on its nuclear programme. But the Trump administration said in May that it was withdrawing from the agreement and announced unilateral plans to restore sanctions against Tehran. The US move has been opposed by other major powers, the Britain, Russia, France, China, Germany and the European Union, which helped negotiate the deal. Iran says the US sanctions, which have prompted many foreign companies to stop doing business with it and are undermining its already weak economy, violate the terms of the 1955 treaty. Despite international criticism, Washington is pushing ahead with the measures. A new series of sanctions is due to go into effect Nov. 4. The ICJ is the United Nations' highest court for resolving disputes between nations. Its rulings are binding, but it has no power to enforce them, and the United States and Iran are both among a handful of countries that has ignored its decisions. Answer: Donald Trump. There is unlikely to be any changes in America's policy on suspension of aid to Pakistan until it makes substantial progress against terrorists and their safe havens, the Trump administration has told Islamabad as the two countries try to reset their strained ties. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, during their meetings with Pakistan's new Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi here, are understood to have told the Pakistani leadership that in its assessment the US does not see any changes on the ground when it comes to taking actions against terrorists operating from its soil. Given Pakistan's influence over the Taliban, the Trump administration also wants Islamabad to bring them to the peace table. Notably, the State Department till late in the night had refrained from issuing any readout of the meeting between Qureshi and Pompeo, which is understood to have lasted for 20 minutes at their Foggy Bottom headquarters. The White House normally does not issue a readout of the meeting that its National Security Advisor has with foreign leaders. Qureshi and Pompeo did appear for a hand-shake photo op before the meeting, during which they did not issue opening remarks. According to informed sources familiar with the development, the US side is upset because of Qureshi's faux pas about handshake he had with President Donald Trump during a luncheon in New York, which he described to the media as meeting. Meanwhile in a readout of the meetings, the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington said that Qureshi had a wide range of discussions with both Pompeo and Bolton which included among others bilateral and regional issues. Qureshi said that close engagement between Pakistan and the US had always been mutually beneficial and a factor for stability in South Asia. He stressed that, going forward, a broad-based and structured framework for dialogue would best serve the two countries' shared interests, the statement said. Noting that Pakistan and the US share a common desire for peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region at large, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's support for a political settlement in Afghanistan, saying use of force had failed to deliver results. Qureshi told Pompeo that "peace in South Asia, which was a common goal for both the US and Pakistan, would remain elusive until all disputes, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir, are resolved". Pompeo, according to the embassy statement, said the US looked forward to working with the new government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan in implementing its reform agenda. "In the context of achieving stability in South Asia, Qureshi briefed his US interlocutor about India's aggressive posturing in the region. "Qureshi underscored that, on its part, Pakistan remained committed to engaging India in a comprehensive peace dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute," the statement added. The ties between the two countries strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists. In a U-turn, Pakistan has announced that its close ally Saudi Arabia would not join the USD 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, days after Islamabad said Riyadh will be the third "strategic partner" of China's flagship project, the Belt and Road Initiative. The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of President Xi Jinping aimed at enhancing China's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects. Minister for Planning and Development Khusro Bakhtiar told media on Tuesday that the cash-rich kingdom's proposed investments would fall under a separate bilateral arrangement, Dawn news reported. "Saudi Arabia is not to become a collateral strategic partner in the CPEC. This impression is not true," he said. A third country can participate in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by taking part in the business and investment ventures arising out of the project, Bakhtiar said. "The framework between China and Pakistan is bilateral and Saudi Arabia is not entering that framework as a third-party investor, rather the base of the CPEC will be broadened and its pace will be expedited," he said. Last month, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said that Saudi Arabia is the third "strategic partner" of the CPEC, soon after Prime Minister Imran Khan returned from his first foreign trip to the kingdom. Interestingly Chaudhry was sitting with Bakhtiar when he issued clarification that Saudi Arabia participation in the CPEC was not as third partner in the project. Bakhtiar further said that there was no decision to bring a third country, like Saudi Arabia, under the framework of the CPEC. He was responding to questions about the possibility of Saudi Arabia becoming part of the Joint Working Groups or Joint Coordination Committee on the CPEC. Bakhtiar said there could be many offshoots of the CPEC where third countries could be involved in trilateral arrangement for infrastructure development, like China-Pakistan-Japan, China-Pakistan-Saudi Arabia or China-Pakistan-Germany. The minister dodged questions when asked how the cost of Main Railway Line (ML-I) had been reduced by USD 2 billion from USD 8.2 billion to USD 6.2 billion as claimed by Railways Minister Shaikh Rasheed Ahmed. "I have noticed this today that Sheikh Rasheed is making some efforts (to reduce the cost) but not to my knowledge. Nothing has come in front of me to suggest that the cost has come down," he said. Bakhtiar said the CPEC portfolio currently stands at about USD 50 billion, of which about USD 6 billion was government-to-government loan and remaining in Independent Power Producers mode mostly in the energy sector. About USD 29 billion worth of projects were currently in progress. He said the CPEC had far bigger potential than USD 50 billion and would keep expanding with time as new projects come up but the previous government treated and played it like a T-20 match instead of a five-day test series and focused mostly on projects which could be completed during its tenure. Currently, a Saudi delegation is in Pakistan for initial assessment to capitalise on the Pakistani offer. Despite the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corp Ltd (under which come the Pune and Nagpur Metros) being a public-private-partnership (PPP) project, which implies it is a public authority under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, everything about it is opaque. Pune-based RTI activist, Qaneez Sukhrani has filed a complaint with the Central Information Commission (CIC), Delhi and the State Chief Information Commission, Maharashtra, a fortnight back, after Maha Metro failed to put up suo moto information on its website under Section 4 of the RTI Act. Maha Metro has admitted that it comes under the RTI Act. As for the CIC, it has replied that her complaint has been directed to the compliance cell. As per the rules of any PPP project, the private body, which enters into partnership with a government body automatically becomes a government agency and is, therefore, a public authority under the RTI Act and, therefore, transparency is mandatory. The rule states: 1.2.1: If public services are proposed to be provided through a public private partnership (PPP), all information relating to the PPPs must be disclosed in the public domain by the public authority entering into the PPP contract/concession agreement. This may include details of the special purpose vehicle (SPV), if any set up, detailed project reports, concession agreements, operation and maintenance manuals and other documents generated as part of the implementation of the PPP project. The documents under the ambit of the exemption from disclosure of information under section 8(1)(d) and 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act would not be disclosed suo moto. Further, information about fees, tolls, or other kinds of revenue that may be collected under authorization from the government, information in respect of outputs and outcomes, process of selection of the private sector party may also be proactively disclosed. All payments made under the PPP project may also be disclosed in a periodic manner along with the purpose of making such payment. Says Ms Sukhrani, Punes Metro comes under the Maha Metro, which is a 50:50 jointly owned company of the government of India and the government of Maharashtra. For an SPV, which claims to be professional, where is their knowledge of suo moto disclosures under Sec 4 of the RTI Act 2005? how to file RTI application* and *list of PIO/FAA*, both of which have been subsequent to my complaint. But where are the rest of the suo moto disclosures as per Section 4? Such an opaque attitude means denial of uploading of standard contracts, drawings, alignments of the intended routes, she added. Currently, http://punemetrorail.org/ shows ** and **, both of which have been subsequent to my complaint. But where are the rest of the suo moto disclosures as per Section 4? Such an opaque attitude means denial of uploading of standard contracts, drawings, alignments of the intended routes, she added. Ms Sukhrani initially sent her complaint by email in the first week of September to Maha Metro, which was ignored. Thereafter, on 14th September, she sent a copy of it to SIC and CIC asking them to take due cognisance and pass strictures. She stated in the complaint, As you are an SPV under the government of Maharashtra, you also come under the RTI Act 2005. I looked but could not find a tab indicating suo moto (voluntary) disclosures. Neither did I find a list of PIOs & FAAs under a separate tab. Kindly enlighten tomorrow itself whether you come under the RTI Act 2005 or not. The planning department of Maha Metro replied, With reference to your mails, this is to inform you that, Maharashtra Metro Rail Corp comes under the RTI Act 2005. Suo moto disclosure is being uploaded on website. This is for your information please. Ms Sukhrani says, After my complaint to the information commission, I received a call from Mr Prahlad Kachare that he has joined Maha Metro to undertake RTI related work. After this on the same evening, I received their acceptance that they fall under the ambit of RTI Act 2005 and an assurance from Maha Metro that they will do needful. Till today their website remains as it is. On the 19th of September, I received an acknowledgement from CIC with a file number that my complaint has been registered with the compliance cell. Now with Dr Kachare on the hot seat of RTI-related information, we hope citizens would get a peek into the intricate information of the two metro lines, as activists and experts allege haphazard planning of the alignment of the metro route itself! The honorary Director of Lay Discipleship in the Diocese in Europe, Dr Clare Amos, reflects on the nature of the continent of Europe and the implications of Britains decision to leave the European Union. The Diocese in Europe is like the Anglican Communion in miniature. That was a perceptive remark made a few years ago by the chaplain to the Suffragan Bishop in Europe. It has a great deal of truth. I have now been a member of a church in the Church of England Diocese in Europe for seven years, since I moved to a small town in France near Geneva in 2011 to work for the World Council of Churches. One of the things that I have noticed and appreciated is how much more diverse our congregation in Geneva has become over these years, both in terms of ethnicity and the geographical origins of people. And that is also true, I believe, for many other churches of the Diocese in Europe. Yes, there are still people like myself who have travelled here from that part of the Church of England based on the off-shore island (England!) and find ourselves living as Anglicans in continental Europe. But we are increasingly outnumbered by people who have come to Geneva from many countries of Africa and Asia not to mention America, Australasia, and indeed other parts of Europe. Many gravitate to our church of Holy Trinity because they were Anglicans in their homeland: in other cases it is our style of worship that they appreciate and relate to. I do think that the church in Geneva and indeed the diocese as a whole needs to work through some of the implications of our increasing diversity in a way that we have not quite done so far. But such diversity is definitely something to be celebrated and built on. This diversity is already reflected in a diocesan venture that I have been involved with in recent years. Like several other dioceses in the Church of England we have developed a programme for young people called CEMES the Church of England Ministry Experience Scheme. This offers those who are thinking seriously about full time church ministry the opportunity to spend nearly a year working as an intern in one of our churches in a structured way which includes also theological, educational, spiritual and personal reflection facilitated by a team of volunteer mentors. The geography of the diocese means that because the interns are working with different churches in different countries it is important to bring all of them together from time to time during the year for some intensive learning and team-building. Due to the vision and hard work of William Gulliford, the Diocesan Director of Ordinands who set up the scheme four years ago, we have found ourselves meeting together in Rome, Lyon, Brussels, Cologne and the Holy Land. The majority of the interns who join us are young people who originate from Britain, but others have come from North America, Africa and different parts of Europe. In turn they seem to appreciate the diversity of the contexts in which they find themselves. Most of those who have participated in the scheme are now working towards ordination. As an educational mentor, I have wanted to ensure that the participants in the scheme reflect seriously on Anglican identity. In continental Europe what it means to choose to be an Anglican is an intentional question which takes on more weight that it has had in England until recently. For these purposes I have drawn on a document called the Signposts statement on the Anglican Way that I helped to develop while working at the Anglican Communion Office a decade ago as Director of Theological Studies. Signposts frames Anglican identity as being: Formed by Scripture Shaped through Worship Ordered for Communion Directed by Gods Mission It has been gratifying to realise how useful Signposts is in helping people to grapple succinctly with the ideal charisms of the Anglican Way: it deserves to be better known. Part of its vision is certainly of an Anglican tradition which gives space for diversity in unity. Such holding together of diversity and unity is part of my own personal passion. It has informed my spiritual journey, and many of the steps of my working life. Like many, perhaps most, though probably not all, Anglicans living in the Diocese in Europe, I am deeply grieved at the likely developments over the next few months which will see the United Kingdom leaving the European Union. This may well have practical consequences for my own life, and indeed for the corporate life of the Diocese in Europe, although at this stage it is not exactly clear what these will be. But the primary reason for my grief is that by taking this step the United Kingdom seems to be turning its back on that vision of diversity in unity which is dear to my heart. I know all too well that the European Union is far from perfect: I have lived in France for seven years! Yet I am also now aware in a way that is difficult to comprehend from a purely English perspective, how for the past 60 years what is now called the European Union has acted as a bulwark against the wars that had previously dominated the European landscape for hundreds of years, and from which the geography of Britain had partly protected it. Living with diversity calls us all to a radical selflessness; it is precisely such a selflessness which is lacking in current political debate. High crude oil prices and fears over a hike in key domestic lending rates pulled the Indian rupee to a new record low of over 73 per US dollar on Wednesday. The Indian rupee opened at a record low of 73.25 per US dollar surpassing the previous low of 72.98 per dollar, which it had touched on September 18. It slipped further to -- 73.42 -- its lowest-ever mark -- against the greenback at the Inter-Bank Foreign Exchange Market. Around 11.35 a.m., the rupee recovered a bit to 73.07 per US dollar mark. "The rupee has made a new record low today on back of consistent rise in the crude oil prices. Sharp rise in the crude oil prices along with steep depreciation in the rupee might push inflation higher in the coming months," Rushabh Maru, Research Analyst at Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers, told IANS. "Sharp volatility in the domestic equities and steep FIIs outflows from equity and debt segments keeping sentiments bearish for the rupee. The dollar index is hovering around multi-months high as the Federal Reserve continues to raise interest rates aggressively." Whether its raining or cloudy, nothing will get in your way of taking a brilliant shot ever again. PICNIC gives natural and artistic re-touch filters to the atmosphere and background of your photos. You can enhance a picture as you click itjust use the camera option in the app. Alternatively, you have the option to pick any of your photos from your existing gallery, and enhance it. There is a variety of ready-made filters which can be used with a single tap and your photos are enhanced on the theme selected You can enhance a picture as you click itjust use the camera option in the app. Alternatively, you have the option to pick any of your photos from your existing gallery, and enhance it. There is a variety of ready-made filters which can be used with a single tap and your photos are enhanced on the theme selected Now, dont let the dreadful weather ruin your travel and outdoor photos. PICNIC will turn a dull and muddy day into a beautiful day out. At Mondays close, uranium prices were trading slightly lower at $27.45, a decline of 0.18%. After news that the US Supreme Court had effectively banned mining of near the Grand Canyon. This ban was announced by the Obama administration in 2012, which stipulated a 20-year ban on fresh mining activity, following fears that it could lead to environmental impacts. This was met with a series of legal action from commercial interests. A manageable and worthwhile risk? Many people in the uranium and mining sectors hoped for court support to remove the Obama order. The national Mining association (NMA) as well as the American Exploration and Mining Association (AEMA) have disputed this, saying uranium exploration is not a risk to the canyon. But on Monday they lost the challenge in the ninth cycle of appeals starting from December last year. Theres still a possibility that the Trump administration could still overturn the ban through an executive policy decision. That said, there is already a uranium mining operation set to be placed about eight kilometres from the edge of the canyon, which existed before the ban. There are talks that protesters will be gathering there this coming Thursday. But before you think of joining the protest, here are some things you should know. Firstly, fossil fuel-fired power such as coal, produces more emissions and are more harmful to the environment, and yet one kilogram of uranium produces the same amount of energy as three million kilograms of coal. And the potential risk of a nuclear reactor actually resulting in widespread contamination of air or water in the United States is considerably small, due to the added barriers and various safety systems in place. The US Nuclear Regulatory commission goes under vigorous regulatory oversights, and Australia would be no different. The uranium operations currently in Australia already have great oversight. And the radioactive waste, such as uranium mil tailings and used reactor fuel is sorted into high or low level waste. Radioactive waste that is considered harmful to humans is stored until it can be appropriately disposed of. Youll be pleased to know that volume wise, most of the waste associated with nuclear power has fairly low levels of radioactivity. It is really only the used nuclear reactor fuel, which can no longer produce electricity, and forms fuel pallet in long metal tubes called rods. However, these materials are subject to such specialised regulations that prevents outside contact with us and our environment. This also extends to inactive nuclear plants, through a process could decommissioning. Which is basically a clean up of contaminated radioactivity power plants, structures and mils, as well as the safe removal of radioactive fuel. Revealed today: How Aussie investors could cash in on uraniums next blockbuster breakout. Free report available now. New targets for uranium In a fast moving and emerging market, uranium is one sector that looks likely for a breakout. The need for reliable, efficient and clean energy is gaining fast traction in our global economies. With the US Department of Commerce investigating the effects of uranium exports on national security, combined with recent news that Cameco will no longer restart its suspended production in nuclear plants. This could mean spot prices are ready for a significant increase, or so analyst Joe Reagor believes. On the back of this news and the US governments own study into uranium imports, Mr Reagor claimed that uranium prices were likely to increase substantially in the near future, saying, We believe the uranium spot price is poised to increase significantly. Mr Reagor also commented on the study if uranium imports, saying: We view this as a significant positive for the U.S. uranium industry and believe the investigation could lead to a recommendation of imposing tariffs. But the benefits to the industry may take a little time to become fruitful, as requisite steps and related time frames for processing would most likely not come until a year or more. And as we know, Australia is highly sensitive when it comes to its bigger commodity producing counterparts, like the US and China. So keep an eye out for that. Regards, Ryan Clarkson-Ledward, For Money Morning PS: Discover how you could take advantage of the next big resource rush. Today, Greg Canavan shares how you could capitalise on uraniums next potentially colossal comeback. To find out more read his free report The catalysts set to spark Uraniums next Blockbuster Bounce-Back. Downloadable now. The latest and greatest invention to hit stores around the globe is one of the handiest tools out there and could quite possibly save a few relationship woes. Almost all relationships have a duvet hogger, and if you think that yours doesn't than your partner is probably too polite to say anything as they gaze over at you looking all warm, toasty and covered by the duvet. Now a company has stopped any heated debates over the blankets and created the Cover Clamp, a clamp for your bed to stop your other half from stealing the covers . How is this for getting the nostalgia pumping!? The original illustrator for Roald Dahl's iconic novels has reimagined one of the most iconic heroines of the late 80's/90's as a 30 year old woman. The pictures are done in Quentin Blake's traditional style and shows Matilda Wormwood/Honey all grown up in a series of potential and very likely careers, from astrophysicist to poet to Hollywood special effects expert, adventurer to head of the prestigious British Library. Posted on: October 3, 2018 9:00 AM The Archbishop of Cape Town, Thabo Makgoba, has announced new safeguarding measures designed to make churches in the province safer. The new measures will require those seeking ordination to obtain a police clearance certificate; and they include a new national email contact point for reporting allegations of abuse. The move follows a number of allegations made this year, including by Author Ishtiyaq Shukri, who said that he had been abused by un-named priests at an Anglican school in Kimberley, Northern Cape. Responding to those allegations in March, Archbishop Thabo said that he was urgently consulting more widely on how the Church can not only act more effectively, but be seen to act effectively in cases of sexual abuse. Today he fleshed out the actions the Church was taking following those consultations. At meetings held last week, our churchs Synod of Bishops and our Provincial Standing Committee which includes clergy and lay people from every diocese in Southern Africa had their first opportunity to discuss the reports of clergy abusing children which received widespread publicity earlier this year, he said. We were made acutely aware of the pain of those who have been hurt by the church. Although the number of cases reported so far is limited, we resolved to take up the issue with the utmost seriousness. Experienced lawyers and clergy serving on our Canon Law Council reported that our Pastoral Standards, which are incorporated into church law, set out a sound basis on which to handle complaints of abuse. But the council has said we need to make it easier for complainants to access procedures for laying complaints, and to provide better support for them along the way. The council also reported that complaints, especially historical complaints, are not being handled quickly enough. It recommended that we set up a central register of complaints, including details of what action has been taken. Although complaints of abuse can made directly to the diocese in which it has taken place, we have now also set up a dedicated email address for those who wish to report them through that channel. This may be done anonymously. Archbishop Thabo added: The council will propose changes to church legislation at the next meeting of the three-yearly Provincial Synod, our top legislative body, next year. In the meantime, the Provincial Standing Committee has resolved that, with immediate effect, all ordinations, elections or consecrations of ordained ministers will include the requirement for a police clearance certificate to be obtained from a verified agency. From January 2019, we will progressively enforce the same rule for lay ministers, especially those involved in youth ministry and Sunday School teaching. In addition, the Canon Law Council emphasised to the Synod of Bishops that it is urgent and very important that every diocese set up a team to deal effectively with allegations of abuse. We are arranging training for the bishops at the next meeting of our Synod of Bishops, and have asked each diocese to ensure that its teams also receive training in how best to respond to complaints. More than half a dozen cases emerged this year, Archbishop Thabo said, adding that most of these relate to events which were alleged to have taken place more than 20 years ago. This meant that, except in cases of rape, accusations could not be pursued through criminal courts because of the statue of limitations. I therefore reiterate my earlier support for quick action by Parliament to change the law to allow such prosecutions to take place, he said. Victims of sexual abuse need to be able to pursue charges both in criminal courts and in church tribunals. Internationally, the Anglican Consultative Council has established a Safe Church Commission to improved safeguarding measures across the Communion. The Commission is preparing draft guidelines which will be presented to the ACC at its meeting in Hong Kong next April. This week, Governor Phil Bredesen hosted his Choose Chattanooga ideas forum. The former governor presented a variety of ideas and solutions to problems everyone here in Southeast Tennessee is familiar with. He spoke about reining in the national debt, improving care for veterans, and providing access to affordable health care. But, unlike his opponent, Governor Bredesen stands out for consistently addressing issues that are specific to Tennessee and matter to Tennesseans. And some of these are tough issues like the local opioid crisis and opportunities and protection for women. I really liked his idea about TVA as the provider of internet to communities that lack access to the service. In contrast to Marsha Blackburn, he thinks strategically. A couple of years ago she blocked legislation that would have allowed local broadband networks the opportunity to provide internet to communities in rural Southeast Tennessee. She prevented EPB from expanding Chattanoogas internet, which is the fastest in the world. Due to her actions, communities less than 15 minutes away have some of the slowest internet speeds in the state. Now rural Tennesseans are paying more than they should for low-speed internet. Her track record of placing special interests above the needs of Tennesseans indicates she will continue this pattern in the Senate. I support Phil Bredesen because I know his solutions will help Chattanooga, and Marsha Blackburn has a record of opting to please lobbyists over locals. Cartter Patten * * * Mr. Patten, I am not voting for Phil Bredesen for U.S. senator. As expected Phil did the soft shoe shuffle around the question of whether he supports Judge Kavanaugh for the Supreme Court. Phils party is dragging out the hearings in hopes of keeping the seat open until they think they will be the majority in the senate. So its not unreasonable to ask a candidate how he would vote in case he has to vote in January. This is a huge question for Tennesseans. Rather Waltzin Phil wants to avoid that topic and speak in generalities about reining in the debt. Thats always a standby topic for Democrats when they are out of power. Presumably he means the national debt, the amount of money the government owes creditors, mainly China, from excessive government borrowing and spending. Democrat Barrack Obama is responsible for raising that very debt by a record $8.5 trillion in his eight years in office to the astounding $21 trillion today. Cue the Tennessee Waltz, Phil is about to waltz again. Phil wants us to ignore the fact the candidate of his party, the man he voted for raised the debt to such a dangerous level. Now he wants us to forget that and vote for him to reign it in. He and others could have just done that by not voting for Barrack Obama. Waltzin Phil also wants to dance around the issue of health care. In true political form, in a 2010 book interview Phil said he supported a single-payer plan (meaning government run health care) but in the next breath he said a single payer plan would be disastrous. (Source: PolitiFact, Sept 20, 2018, Jon Greenberg). So confusing as his position may be regarding affordable health care, I dont want to take a chance for me, my children or my grandchildren so Im not voting for Phil. And finally Im not wearing a make TVA great again cap. Phil may want to make them a big monopoly providing internet services to rural communities but in my lifetime Ive seen such noble sounding ideas expand into complete government control. Not coincidentally, its Phils party that always proposes these plans that grow out of control ($8.5 trillion out of control). Im not supporting Phil Bredesen because I know his solutions are not solutions, just political rhetoric designed to restore his party to the majority. Thats not good for Tennessee or America. Ralph Miller Posted on: October 3, 2018 12:52 PM The Co-chair of the Anglican-Oriental Orthodox International Commission (AOOIC), Metropolitan Bishoy from the Coptic Orthodox Church, has died. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, led tributes from Anglican leaders, saying that he was saddened to hear of the death of a faithful servant of God. Archbishop Justin added that it was a privilege to meet him in Cairo and London. The Anglican Co-chair of AOOIC, the Bishop of St Asaph Gregory Cameron, said: he was deeply saddened by this news, but thankful to God for faithful discipleship. Before his sudden death last night (Tuesday) at the age of 76, Metropolitan Bishoy led the Diocese of Damietta in the north-east Egypt port region of Kafr el-Sheikh; and the Monastery of Saint Demiana of Barrari in Belkas. He had a long history serving the cause of ecumenism; having served as a member of the Faith and Order Commission of the World Council of Churches (WCC) in addition to his role as Co-chair of AOOIC. He attended the Lambeth Conference of Anglican bishops as an ecumenical observer in 1988, 1998, and 2008. Metropolitan Bishoy was one of the great ecumenists of the modern era, the Director for Unity, Faith and Order at the Anglican Communion Office, Canon Dr John Gibaut, said. Anglicans in particular will remember his contribution as the co-chair of the Anglican-Oriental Orthodox International Commission (AOOIC) [and] rejoice in the historic agreement reached by the AOOIC on Christology in 2014, as well as the 2017 agreement on the Procession of the Holy Spirit. He was a great friend of the Anglican Communion, and [we will] remember him as a wise, courageous and holy monk, theologian, bishop, and friend. He expressed sympathy to the Coptic Orthodox Church, the Diocese of Damietta, and the monastic community at St Damiena. Metropolitan Bishoy of of Damietta, Oriental Orthodox Co-chair of the Anglican-Oriental Orthodox International Commission (AOOIC), with the Anglican Co-chair, Bishop Gregory Cameron of St Asaph. Photo: Anglican Communion Office Another Coptic member of AOOIC, Archbishop Angaelos, the Archbishop of London, said that he was so saddened to hear of passing of an iconic father of our Coptic Orthodox Church. Archbishop Angaelos said that he had been with Metropolitan Bishoy two days ago, at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Orthodox Churches and the United Bible Societies at Holy Etchmiadzin, the seat of the Armenian Orthodox Church, describing it as his last official act of a full ecumenical life. He added: as Christians, we mourn, and are saddened by, the loss of loved ones, while at the same time rejoicing in their life on earth, and their passing to the awaited and anticipated glory. The former bass player for the rock band The Ataris has pleaded guilty in connection with his masterminding of a real-estate scam that bilked more than 100,000 people and netted more than $25 million. Michael S. Davenport, 50, pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, according to the Department of Justice. Davenport admitted to owning and operating a telemarketing business that scammed thousands of prospective homebuyers and renters between 2009 and 2016. The business changed names several times over the years, but is referred to in court documents as American Standard. The scam was deceptively simple. American Standard posted ads on Craigslist that listed houses for sale or rent at low prices. Consumers who responded to the ads were told that the houses on the list were in pre-foreclosure and could be purchased simply by taking over the homeowners mortgage payments. Consumers were told that they would have to purchase American Standards list of houses for $199 in order to find more information on the homes. The $199 fee was supposedly to cover the costs of title searches and deed transfers. No matter where in the country the consumer lived, American Standard salespeople said that the list included numerous pre-foreclosure properties in their area. Robin Hood is the most important thing facing Texas Legislature when the next session begins in January. That was the message from state Rep. Tom Craddick for those on hand at the League of Women Voters forum Tuesday night at Midland College. Craddick told those in attendance he was one of 12 people in 1993 to vote against the current way Texas funds education. Robin Hood is the name for the system that takes money from so-called property-rich districts and sends it to property-poor districts. RELATED: Seliger: Republicans have to fix school finance I thought it was bad then, and Midland was getting money, Craddick said. Midland ISD officials have said they are forecasting that more than $140 million in school finance payments will be sent to Austin over the next two school years. He said the solution isnt simple and that he doesnt know the solution. Too many districts pay into the current system and that no one district or region can be exempted as some in Midland have asked about previously. He said hes heard from those who want to replace property taxes with a sales tax addition. But he doesnt think Texans would back a 15 percent sales tax, and a state income tax which he wouldnt support would not pass. He also said there are Texas leaders who will not support anything that appears to be an increase in taxes. It will be tough to do because I dont know what the alternative is, Craddick said. You have to replace it with something else. It has to be done. Craddicks comments went without rebuttal from Spencer Bounds, the Democratic Partys candidate for the District 82 seat, which includes Midland, Crane, Upton, Martin and Dawson counties. Bounds did not attend the forum. RELATED: MISD could face around $125 million in school finance payments through 2020 State Sen. Kel Seliger, during a local town hall meeting in August, had similar comments about the need to finally get something done on school funding. The Amarillo Republican, who represents Midland County, said Republicans must do whats right and fix school finance this upcoming session. Seliger previously said a solution wont be without duress and will not be cheap. He said school finance likely will require the state to increase its funding for public education from about the current 37 percent to about 50 percent. He said legislators would pick a funding level right now it is around $5,500 to $6,000 a student. Even if the state raised that level, Midland ISD easily would have enough money to cover that funding level and be able to lower the tax rate for its residents. The state would then use state revenue to bring poorer districts to the same level as MISD. Also Tuesday night, Craddick voiced support for local control. In response to a question about the Legislature being involved in requiring recess, he said those decisions are better left to school boards rather than lawmakers. A former Bandidos member who participated in the killing of another man 16 years ago was sentenced Tuesday to 13 years in federal prison without parole, plus five years of supervision after his release. Frederick Fast Fred Cortez, 50, was charged in a racketeering case that took down the top leaders of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club. It wasnt until federal authorities squeezed the Bandidos that Cortez admitted he helped shoot Robert Lara at a rest stop south of San Antonio in January 2002. Cortez pleaded guilty in October 2016 to murder in aid of racketeering for Laras killing. Lara was killed because he was suspected of slaying a Bandido in late 2001, according to testimony during the three-month trial of the Bandidos former national vice president John Xavier Portillo and ex-president Jeffrey Fay Pike. Pike and Portillo were sentenced last week to life in prison without parole for leading the racketeering conspiracy. Related: San Antonio judge sentences Bandidos chief to life for prison One of the governments key eyewitnesses, former Bandidos member Richard Steven Merla, testified that a woman working with the Bandidos drove Lara in January 2002 to a dark picnic area along Interstate 37 south of San Antonio, where Merla dragged Lara out of the car. Merla and Cortez then emptied their pistols into him to retaliate for the killing of Javier Negrete, who was secretary of the Bandidos Southwest San Antonio chapter. Negrete was killed in late 2001 when someone in a sport utility vehicle fired shots at him outside Tiffanys Billiards in San Antonio, Merla testified. Cortez, then a prospect trying to become a member, returned fire, hitting the SUV, Merla said, and was later made a full-patch member. After the Bandidos investigated, Portillo, then the chapters president, announced at a meeting that Lara had slain Negrete and a plan was hatched to kill Lara, Merla testified. Merla said that the day of the Lara killing, he, Cortez and four other Bandidos including Portillo went in three separate cars to the picnic area after the woman working with the Bandidos had called Portillo to let him know that she had Lara in the car with her. After he and Cortez killed Lara, Merla said, Portillo told everyone that no one was to speak of the killing again. Later, he and Cortez were given Expect No Mercy patches, which are dispensed for a noted act for the club, Merla said. Related: Bandidos vice president gets two life terms plus 20 years Merla is serving 40 years in Texas state prison for the 2004 murder of boxer Robert Pikin Quiroga and 40 years concurrently for Laras slaying. Cortez, who worked for Portillo in Portillos home air-conditioning business, did not testify at the trial. Guillermo Contreras covers federal court and immigration news in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | gcontreras@express-news.net | Twitter: @gmaninfedland A Mexican-American bond led the way to DC Vertigo's new hit series "Border Town." Part of Vertigo's fall relaunch of new titles, "Border Town" (the second issue is available in print and digitally) is the creation of writer Eric M. Esquivel and artist Ramon Villalobos. During their initial plotting conversations over the phone, Esquivel and Villalobos realized their experiences growing up Mexican in the United States could be used as fuel for the flames of "Border Town." Esquivel, who is Irish-Mexican, grew up without his Mexican father (like the lead character of "Border Town"). Villalobos says that both of his grandfathers came to the United States from Mexico and that he considers himself "fully" Mexican. Like Esquivel, Villalobos struggled with identity at times - he would be called out for not speaking Spanish despite being Mexican (a branding that afflicts characters in "Border Town" as well). Esquivel always assumed "Border Town" wouldn't work at a major publisher, because it leans so heavily on Chicano identity and Mexican folklore. He acknowledges feeling a little angry when pitching the idea to Vertigo, because the publisher (an imprint of DC Comics) had already turned down prior ideas of his for a new series. But Esquivel says those initial ideas were more tributes to Vertigo tales of the past such as "Sandman" and "Y: The Last Man." He was shocked when Vertigo gave him the green light for "Border Town," but it stood out because it was so original. "I never thought in a million years that a company like DC/Vertigo would gamble on a story like that, because it's controversial just being (a) Mexican (story) in America, and especially in comics," Esquivel said. "I thought ("Border Town") was going to be a black-and-white self-published thing that I was going to do someday." The story takes place in the fictional town of Devil's Fork, Arizona, on the border between the United States and Mexico while also serving as the border between reality and Mictlan, the Aztec underworld, home to various demons and monsters of legend that frequent the pages of "Border Town." The protagonist, Frank, a teenage newcomer to town, is loosely based on Esquivel and his experiences moving from Illinois to Arizona as a sophomore in high school. It was an experience that Esquivel says took him from an area that was suburban and "aggressively white" to a setting that felt like "jail in an '80s movie" because of cliques that were so clearly defined by race. In "Border Town," Frank quickly discovers that blending in on both sides of a town split by racial makeup is difficult, but he quickly forms a bond with other Latino outcasts at his school. "Arizona is a big part of me," Esquivel said. "The elements of the book that are based on my actual life read as the most over-the-top, and the ones with the monsters and stuff don't." The literary border of "Border Town" is between horror and the supernatural. When the monsters of Mictlan cross over to Arizona, they have a spellbinding effect on a town that is already defined by division. Whatever the locals fear, that's what they'll see when one of those monsters approaches them. An undocumented immigrant might see an ICE agent. An American minority could visualize a tiki-torch rally. But in the first issue of "Border Town," when a child is approached by a monster, he sees the Batman villain Bane. Esquivel and Villalobos were looking to prove a point with that image. "That was sort of our commentary that you have to be taught to hate," Esquivel said. "Everyone else sees all these stereotypes, but the kid sees only (things from Batman.)" Guiding the visual adventure of "Border Town" is the Frank Quitely-inspired art of Villalobos, known recently for work on superhero titles at Marvel. Villalobos has embraced drawing a different type of comic-book tale, one leaning more on horror and teen angst than capes and masks. "I love superhero comics, and that's mostly what my career has been, is just drawing people in tights punching each other," Villalobos said. "And that's really fun, but personally, media that I like to intake is not superhero stuff at all. It's usually romantic comedies and teenage dramas and stuff like that, just because I spend my whole day doing superhero stuff. So it's refreshing to be able to do (something different)." When "Border Town" came out last month, many readers focused on how it applied to Latino identity and border politics. At times, lost in the hype was the main story Esquivel and Villalobos are trying to tell, which is more about underworlds than political worlds. "I don't want people to feel like we're doing this in opposition to anything," Esquivel said. "I'm not putting out this book because (Donald) Trump is president. I'm putting out this book because it's a story I want to tell. Because Mexicans exist. We should have always had these stories coming out through all of these companies, and we didn't." "To me ("Border Town" is) a horror story and the fact that it's being so politicized is a little bit unfortunate," he said. "I think our readers feel that way, too. But maybe that's why (this story is) so powerful, because other people are getting to see what our life is like." ERIE, Pa. - Hunched over and weeping, Fred Kimbrew had to look away from the stage. He would say later that it felt as if he were seeing the pain in his own life being re-enacted. And in a way, he was. The play was "Sweat," the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama by Lynn Nottage about the racial animus aroused by busting a steelworkers' union in a dying, blue-collar Pennsylvania town. In a one-of-a-kind event, New York's Public Theater is taking an ensemble of Broadway and off-Broadway actors to 18 small towns and cities over 29 days in five Rust Belt and Upper Midwestern states - the heart of MAGA country - to foster the notion that the arts shouldn't be classified as blue or red. Rather, they are red, white and blue. "The difference the play makes to the people whose stories are being told is extraordinary," said Nottage, standing in the makeshift theater in one of Erie's poorest neighborhoods, where the "Sweat" tour was launched Thursday. "I think that what red and blue can recognize is that we all share the same narrative." It is unheard of for a distinguished theater company to look beyond America's major cities and book a play such as "Sweat" - which had a pre-Broadway run at Washington, D.C.'s Arena Stage and played for 129 performances on Broadway last year - into places like Erie; Ashtabula, Ohio; Saginaw, Michigan; and Hayward, Wisconsin. And not just visit unconventional cities, but also unorthodox stages: "Sweat" on tour is being presented free of charge in union halls, churches, food pantries, even centers for men and women recently released from prison, like Climate Changers Inc., a social-service facility on hardscrabble East 11th Street in Erie. Theater is often viewed as a diversion for moneyed classes of a progressive bent in cosmopolitan places. To Oskar Eustis, the Public's artistic director, this tour attempts to redress the imbalance and seek out audiences in Donald Trump's America. "One of the things that we have done is turn our back to half of America, in the idea that the riches of theater belong to the coasts, to the elites," Eustis said. "The Public has done a commendable job of reaching out to urban populations, but we've said to half the country, 'We got nothing for you.' We have done the same thing to that part of the country that the economy has done: We've abandoned them." "Sweat" seems a fitting vehicle to start changing that perception. Set in 2000 to 2008 in Reading, Pennsylvania, where Nottage did her research, the play is built around the friendship of two women, one white, one black, who work the assembly line in a metal tubing plant. The breakdown of their relationship and the tensions that escalate around them occur as the African-American worker, Cynthia, is promoted to management just as the company locks out union members, recruits cheaper replacements from the local Latino community, and starts shipping jobs to a plant in Mexico. Seething, the locked-out white worker, Tracey, provokes a violent incident in the union workers' favorite watering hole, with terrible consequences. Watching a story so familiar, played out with such rawness, by actors on a makeshift stage barely an arm's length away, is too much for some audience members, including those who have never been to a play before. "I'm from Aliquippa, Pennsylvania," Kimbrew said during the post-show discussion, led by the Public's Chiara Klein, that follows every performance. "My grandfather worked in the steel mill for 40 years. When you took out the mill, out came the drug activity. So it was play ball, or sell drugs," he added, choking up. Asked afterward why he cried, Kimbrew replied: "You ever went somewhere and felt, 'They just told my story?' " In Ashtabula, on Friday night, 50 miles down Interstate 90 from Erie, Eustis was in the audience at a food pantry, where people came for the food and stayed for the play. "The audience was older and very quiet during the show - very few laughs, little sort of rumbles of recognition," he said. "I was not quite sure how they were reacting. Then, after the show, they started talking, and every single person broke into sobs. I thought, 'These are people who don't know how to respond to theater, but it's getting to them.' It was about losing the town's identity and their feeling of belonging not to the future but the past. Their reaction was powerful, but in different ways than I would have thought." Ashtabula County gave Donald Trump 57.2 percent of its vote in 2016, and Sawyer County in Wisconsin, where Hayward is located, awarded him nearly 60 percent. Trump even scored narrow victories in more reliably Democratic counties, like Saginaw and Erie. So in a sense with this tour, the Public Theater's Mobile Unit - a company arm that traditionally brings Shakespeare productions to New York's outer boroughs - was venturing into what might be regarded for a liberal theater troupe as politically hostile territory. So intent was Eustis that the show not be perceived as one-sided that he added this note to the programs handed out every evening: "This isn't a Republican or Democrat play. This play does what theater does best: it tells the truth about the lives of people who don't normally get the spotlight, who aren't glamorous or rich, but who are as heroic and deep and complicated as anyone." Erie, a city of 98,000 on the shores of Lake Erie, halfway between Buffalo and Cleveland, suffered from the same kind of deindustrialization that has afflicted communities across the Rust Belt. Since 1960, it has lost about a third of its residents, and at the same time has become a significant destination for refugees and immigrants. About 20 percent of the population is made up of what the city calls "New Americans." In an interview in his downtown offices, Mayor Joseph Schember, a Democrat, recalled working as a teenager as a chipper in an aluminum casting plant in the city's once-bustling industrial corridor. "You could walk down 12th Street and get five good jobs," he said. Now, the plants are closed and the city has been regrouping, with bipartisan efforts to lure innovative businesses and participate in federal community-development initiatives. As to whether the corrosive political battles in the nation's capital have much impact in Erie, the city's genial mayor observed: "I think we think more about what's going on here. The leadership is working together like never before." Schember would show up Thursday evening at Climate Changers, but the question hanging in the air in the hours before the event was, would anyone else? A lot rode on the success of this first stop, as it would set the tone for a month's worth of stops on the tour, a project underwritten largely by the Ford and Mellon foundations. "This is hugely different from any theatrical experience I've ever had," said Steve Key, who was an understudy in the Broadway production and now plays Stan, the former plant worker who presides over the bar in which the play takes place. Public staffers need not have worried; by 6 p.m., the space was filling up, with an audience about equally black and white - a rare occurrence in Erie, people were saying. "This event is very, very important," said Patrick Fisher, executive director of Erie Arts and Culture, a local support organization. "The fact that you can use an art form for an impartial conversation - that is why the arts matter." By 6:30, the room had an overflow crowd of 125. Extra folding chairs had to be brought in, although the supply of free vanilla cupcakes at intermission seemed just about right. Even more important was the nourishment the main event was providing. "It does take you into how things really are," said Gail Mitchell, a longtime Erie resident who came with her husband, Arthur. Wearing a Pittsburgh Steelers cap, Arthur Mitchell was compelled to think about his brother-in-law, a plant worker whose job simply evaporated. "One day he goes to work and they were shut," he said. "And he had been there over 30 years." For Nottage, delving into the deeply felt issues that resulted in "Sweat" made her understand more completely that the unraveling of American civility and self-belief is a collective tragic act. She also sees her play breaking down barriers as a sign of hope. "Everyone is complicit in the undoing of the country," she said. "There are no heroes, and there are no villains." America is one of only seven countries without an official language. It should have one, and English is the natural choice. Despite not being the official language, English has been the dominant one. Why? Assimilation was once seen as a virtue for immigrants, and thus English became pervasive. Subsequent efforts to cater to people in another preferred language including those who were born here resulted in the deprioritization of learning English, putting those who dont understand it at inherent risk. An official language should be recognized as key to the American ideal of a melting pot of true diversity. Consider the act of voting. The federal Voting Rights Act mandates that communities of prescribed densities of people preferring a shared language other than English get special ballots in that language. In California, for example, ballots are printed in Spanish as well as Hmong, Punjabi, Armenian and other languages. But to secure a preferred ballot, one must live in that area. Thats the definition of a ghetto. Beyond voting, it can also apply to those whose breadth of language drives them to shelter themselves from society at large in these secluded enclaves. Americas need for an official language has been misconstrued as a manifestation of racial pride. While it would be foolish to deny bigoted behavior exists, mainstream advocates of an official language are not trying to force immigrants to divest themselves of their own traditions, culture or even language. They do not believe that someones native tongue is a threat to the republic. There is no deep-seated, irrational fear of multilingualism. An official language actually benefits newcomers, particularly those intent on making our blessed nation their home. It makes sure there is, and should remain, a common communicative bond between American citizens and their government as well as with key facets of society such as the marketplace and medical services. English lacks political, tribal or religious aspects that plague some other official languages. There is no reason to create a Tower of Babel in the name of diversity. At the moment, English is threatened with being cast aside in America. Census data from 2000 found that 8.3 percent of Americans have limited English proficiency. Imagine a day when the government uses one language while a majority of its citizens choose to speak something else. That government could create laws and do business in an opaque manner that disenfranchises many people. They could be left unaware of vital rules and how their taxes are spent. They may not understand the extent of their liberties because they are ignorant of the language their government uses. A shared, official language unites people. Everyone being able to understand each other, even at a rudimentary level, can help prevent petty squabbles and overcome differences. And a common means of communication can mean safer roads, more accurate medical diagnoses and fewer workplace mishaps. People coming to America know English is the native tongue. Overwhelming numbers support official English 81 percent in an April Rasmussen Reports poll. Should there ever come a time, especially during emotional immigration debates, when the demand to make separatist speakers feel more comfortable impedes order, actual legislation may be necessary. A legislative means has been difficult federally, but 32 states have already adopted official English. People are not being asked to forget their traditions and customs, especially in their homes and during different celebrations. Instead, they should appreciate the need for commonality when they are running a business or making transactions. People need to be able to understand each other to accomplish deals. To put it another way, consider how the average household operates. Parents expect their children to do certain chores and behave in a certain manner. Children can only do what is expected of them if, and only if, they have a complete understanding of what they are being asked to do. Its of no benefit to anyone if parents speak to children in a language they cannot comprehend. An official language would be beneficial to the United States, if for no other reason than to ensure citizens and government leaders can communicate with relative ease. Society can only thrive when everyone understands one another. Jerome Danner is a member of the Project 21 black leadership network. David W. Almasi is vice president of the National Center for Public Policy Research, the parent organization of Project 21. They wrote this for InsideSources.com. Wild tongues cant be tamed, they can only be cut out, wrote Gloria Anzaldua in her bilingually titled book Borderlands/La Frontera. Thats how Anzaldua, a Chicana writer born in Texas, described her experience growing up in Texas under a English-only environment. Statements like hers feel so deep to me they always string a cord when I think about the unfriendliness and history of English-only policies. I can feel it in my stomach, all the words I had to swallow when I was a kid growing up bilingual in the Southwest. I feared my ability to speak another language would seem disrespectful, or somehow not American enough. The United States has never had an official language, but there have always been calls by some English speakers to make it theirs (and theirs alone). For some, maybe they think this means not having to press 1 for English anymore on the phone, or being able to skip the language screen when they use an ATM. The reality of English-only laws in this country is much darker. Anzalduas remark referred not only to her opposition to being muffled by some vague English-only attitude but also to the brutality of what English-only laws have meant for people subjected to them. These laws have a disturbing and racist history. The drive to extinguish non-English languages allowed the deeply racist and brutal boarding schools for Native Americans, and the beating of Mexican-American children in New Mexico, Texas and California. Weve done it over and over in our history. And it doesnt matter how its disguised its always racist. English-only laws dont just silence non-English speakers. When government documents, ballots and even media arent available in the languages people actually speak, that destroys the transparency that the government owes its people not just English-speaking people but all of them. English-only policies not only make the erroneous argument that English is being displaced the vast majority of immigrants, and especially their kids learn it it also thrives on paranoia and fear of immigrants. They negate the identity and rights of all Americans, and blind people to the unique contributions of Americans from different backgrounds like the Navajo code talkers from World War II. Declaring one language among many official creates a basis to deny American identity to certain people based on their language and heritage. It assumes that if people havent learned English, its because they dont want to another false anti-immigrant argument instead of realizing that its difficult to learn English when you work multiple jobs. These propositions underrate the harsh realities many immigrants already face. Ironically, legitimizing discrimination against them could only make it more difficult for them to learn English later on. All this means immigrants feel inferior. It means their government cant hear them, and they cant hear their government. It means they feel like less than full citizens. Instead of infringing on peoples freedom of speech, we should be reinforcing the freedoms of all citizens. We should celebrate the benefits of being a multilingual country that can communicate to the world, and each other, in every language. At the end of the day, the goal of English-only advocates isnt to help English learners actually learn English. Its to create grounds for discrimination, based on racism, xenophobia and the fear of something different. Dont forget: The English language is an immigrant to this country, too. Modern immigrants still do their best to learn it, but it shouldnt be because theyre scared and tired of being mistreated for speaking something less American. In the end, our government has no business trying to tame peoples tongues. Karla Molinar-Arvizo is a New Mexico Fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies. She wrote this for InsideSources.com. Voter registration booth in Sonora's Courthouse Park View Photos Sonora, CA Very soon you will have the chance to cast your vote for the November General Election. Get ready to check your mail box next week in Tuolumne County as ballots are being sent out on Monday. Its election time! Notes excited County Clerk and Auditor Controller Debi Bautista. She details, Starting next Monday, ballots will be sent out to all of our vote-by-mail voters. So, by a week from this Friday, almost all Tuolumne County voters, 75 percent of us vote-by-mail, should have their ballots. Also, beginning Monday you can vote early at the Tuolumne County Elections Office at 2 South Green Street. There are local elections for county supervisors, special districts, school boards, ballot measures and state and federal races. Of note, Californias voter registration has hit an all-time high ahead of the November 6th election. Today, Secretary of State Alex Padilla reported that more than 19 million people are registered, which is nearly 76 percent of those who are eligible. The state has not had such a large share of registered voters since 77 percent of the eligible population was signed up ahead of the 1996 presidential election. Nicky Smith's words 32 years ago were prophetic. "You come in here and work, and one day you will be in charge of this place," he told then 20-year-old J.J. Guerrero. The first owner of Valley Ag Electric, Inc. did not live to see his words fulfilled, but his brother did. In announcing their retirement, Ricky and Deborah Smith also announced the sale of Valley Ag Electric to Guerrero. The retirement is effective Oct. 31. The man who walked up to Nicky Smith outside the building 32 years ago to ask for a job will own the business when he walks inside Nov. 1. "He said that, and it became true," Guerrero said. With the retirements, Deborah Smith's 5X Ag Insurance is also being sold. Dereck Blair, a financial planner and owner of Caprock Financial Group, will be the new owner. The business re-opens Nov. 1 as Blair Ag, a new firm that will continue the irrigation insurance business while adding crop insurance as well as financial planning, tax planning, estate planning, long term care planning and life insurance services. Blair plans to have offices at the Valley Ag Electric facility in Olton as well as in Lubbock. Ricky Smith said it's only fitting that Guerrero take over the company first loved by his brother and then by himself and his wife. "He loves this company as much as my brother did and as much as I do," Ricky Smith said. "Through everything with Nicky getting sick and hurt, J.J. was always just here. He said, 'We are going to make this thing right. We are going to do this.' He was a godsend." The retiring owner said Guerrero has been his right-hand man since he took over Valley Ag Electric in 2000. He named Guerrero to service manager at that time and later promoted him to general manager. An Olton High School graduate, Guerrero attended technical school in Arizona to learn mechanics before returning to the community. Married and with his first child on the way, Guerrero simply needed a job when he approached Nicky Smith about employment. "Thirty-two years ago J.J. walked up out here when my brother had it and was just getting started," Ricky Smith recalled. "J.J. said, 'I need a job,' and Nicky said, 'What can you do?' He said, 'I'll do anything.' So, that's where it started. J.J. started at the very bottom and went with us to now. He's going to own it." That something that really pleases Valmont Irrigation, which manufactures Valley pivot irrigation products. "I'm very proud to have J.J. Guerrero as the new owner of Valley Ag Electric," said Don Mooring, Territory Sales Manager. "J.J. is one of the most dedicated salesmen and technicians that I have known in the Valley organization. J.J. has given his full effort to Valley Ag Electric for the last 32 years. J.J. is well known and has helped to make Valley Ag Electric successful. I know J.J. will continue to give the area growers the same sales and service that he has provided for years." The quality of the relationship of the new owner and Valmont was evident in the announcement of the sale. "I've known them and they've known me for a long time," Guerrero said of Valmont executives. "It's a strong relationship with them. It's like a family." Ricky Smith said the sale has been in the making for a couple of years, and Guerrero confirmed that timeline. "They asked me to think about it," he said. "They kept asking me if I had thought about it. I finally said, 'Yeah, I'm ready.'" The Smiths opted to retire so that they can be closer to their son, Logan, an Olton High and Texas Tech graduate that now works in Houston. "We've sold our house. We are going to the lake and getting closer to Logan," Ricky Smith said. "That's our dream. He is our only, and it's kind of tough when you have an only. We want to see him all the time, and it is easier now with Facetime and all that stuff, but it's not the same. We can live at the lake and go see him, and come see my mom and dad as well as Deborah's mom and dad." The Smiths plan to return to Olton in December for Valley Ag Electric's annual community party in December. And they don't expect much to change when Guerrero assumes ownership. "I'm very proud of him and very proud of everything going on here," Ricky Smith said. "He has been asked by Valmont and by banks about what he is going to do different. J.J. just says, 'I'm not changing a thing. It's running well.'" "I'm excited and looking forward to this," Guerrero said. "We want to keep it going like we have been going and continue to build it like we have. But now it's going to be without Ricky and Deborah, and they are going to be missed. But the crew we have here have all been together for a long time. We are family everyone of us." However, Guerrero does plan to put new emphasis on Valley's expanding technology offerings. "J.J. believes in technology," Ricky Smith said. "Where I have been kind of slacking in the last couple of years on technology, J.J. has been embracing it. He's doing good with it." "We are going to have to push technology really hard because that is what it really is coming to, especially with these young farmers," the new owner said. "That's what they want, so that is what we are going to push. They want to hold it in their hand and do it all from there." The company's commitment to the community won't change either. "I've always been proud of this community. I've always wanted to do anything I can to help it," Ricky Smith said, noting Guerrero feels the same way. "We are going to help the community out wherever we can help. We're going to continue to help each other," the new owner said as he invited everyone to come by anytime a need arises. "Come visit us," he said. "This crew I have here, from inside the office to outside, is a great crew all of them." Deborah Smith summed up her thoughts, as well as those of her husband, by saying, "We just want to say 'Thank you.' This town really took me in in 1992 when I started teaching here. We chose to live here. We didn't have to. We chose to live here and raise Logan here. Thanks to this community for supporting us and loving us and allowing us to serve them." Blair is excited about establishing Blair Ag within the Valley Ag Electric facility and working with Guerrero. "I have worked with J.J. on the company's 401(k) plan for years, and I'm very excited about working with him," Blair said. The financial planner has been working with the Smiths for about five years. The purchase of 5X Insurance came about as a result of consultations leading up to their anticipated retirement. "I'm a financial planner. I build retirement plans and do estate planning and tax planning," Blair said. "I have their retirement, and it (the sale of 5X Insurance) came up one day and we visited about it." The purchase of 5X Insurance allows the Shallowater resident to return to his agricultural roots. "I was born and raised in Shallowater," he said. "My dad was a farmer, Grandpa was a farmer, and Mom's dad was a farmer in Dimmitt. So that was my life growing up. With this opportunity, I'm so excited to get back into the farming community." And Diversified Agrisurance is "delighted" to have Blair on board as an agent. "His experience in the areas of insurance and agriculture are coveted by companies such as ours," said Mark Moragues, Insurance Sale Manager for Diversified Agrisurance. "We believe that he is not only an asset to us but to those we serve in the industry." Blair said his new company can "take care of the farmer, whether it is in the field, with their estate planning, with their tax planning or something else." And Blair Ag's slogan reflects that "Financial Solutions From Field to Farmhouse." "We want to be a one stop shop to help the farmers with what they need," he said. Like the Smiths, Blair is community minded. He currently serves as president of the Shallowater Booster Club and understands the importance of the business sector giving back to their community. "Ricky and Deborah are such great people. I think the world of them, and I love being around them," Blair said. "The No. 1 thing is to keep the honesty and integrity that they have worked with. She has built a good book of business, and I want to continue with that and represent her as well as I can." And he's looking for a fast start. "I'm going to take it and run with it," he said. With Guerrero and Blair ready to take the reins of Valley Ag Electric and 5X Insurance on Nov. 1, Ricky and Deborah Smith believe they have taken the steps necessary to ensure their legacy of service to the community continues in their retirement years. Valley Ag Electric also has a location in Plainview. 3 1 of 3 Brittany Sowacke /Bloomberg Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Carolyn Van Houten / Carolyn Van Houten Show More Show Less 3 of 3 A Canadian-based oil and gas company has agreed to sell more than 180,000 acres of land in New Mexico for $480 million. Calgary-based Encana Corp., an oil and gas exploration and production company, announced the deal with Denver-based DJR Energy, LLC on Monday. As a teenager growing up on San Antonios South Side in the 1970s, Robert Chavez remembers looking longingly at the clothes in the Frost Bros. department store at North Star Mall. I was in awe, he said. Of course, I couldnt afford it. Fast-forward to today, and Chavez is now the president and CEO for Hermes of Paris, where he oversees business operations and represents the 181-year-old luxury brand on a global scale. This week he returned to San Antonio to speak at Burbank High School, wearing an orange tie to reflect his alma maters colors. Chavez was the valedictorian and the ROTC colonel in the class of 1973 and used to walk down Edwards Street to and from school every day. In a million years, I never dreamed that Id be where I am today, Chavez told a room of about 100 students on Wednesday. I was sitting in your chair 45 years ago. Though he had an interest in retail and fashion from an early age, Chavez never intended to pursue a career in those fields. He wanted to be a third grade teacher because he loved Mrs. Rodriguez, his third grade teacher at Hillcrest Elementary School, and planned to attend an in-state university after graduation. The farthest Chavez anticipated going was the University of Texas at Austin until a teacher persuaded him to try for the Ivy League. The day he received his acceptance letter from Princeton University, he ran from his familys home on Hawthorne Street back to Burbank to tell the teacher. I was very fortunate because I had great teachers here who really pushed me and inspired me to go and do beyond what I thought that I could, he said. Dont underestimate your teachers. But the news was bittersweet: Chavezs father had died his junior year, and he worried about leaving his mother and younger brother alone. His mother ultimately convinced him to go. They couldnt afford a plane ticket, so Chavez spent two days on a Greyhound bus scariest thing I ever did in my life traveling from San Antonio to Philadelphia. To read more about Chavez, see Thursdays front page or click here to visit our subscriber website, ExpressNews.com. Clay Development & Construction is betting on northeast Houston for its next industrial project. The Houston-based developer will start work Dec. 1 on a 214,300-square-foot speculative distribution center on 11.2 acres at the southeast corner of North Lake Houston Parkway and East Sam Houston Parkway North. The cross-dock distribution building, which could be expanded to 385,000 square feet, will be part of the companys 45-acre Sheldon Business Park. Sheldon Distribution Center I is the only large, new distribution facility available for lease or purchase in this strategic Beltway location between Bush Intercontinental Airport and the Port of Houston, Clay Development & Construction president Robert Clay said in an announcement. We are pioneering the underserved northeast market with newly built, next-generation distribution space as we have in other submarkets, such as 288 and the port. The property is just south of McCord Developments 4,000-acre Generation Park mixed-use development, which is also drawing industrial users. The new distribution center will have 32-foot clear-height ceilings, a 135-foot truck court and parking for more than 100 employees. The building will go up next to a 59,200-square-foot manufacturing facility Clay built for architectural metal producer Lichtgitter in 2015. The project is in an area where housing starts have jumped by 11.5 percent in the last year and is close to a skilled labor pool in the Sheldon Road-Channelview area, Clay said. Housing growth fuels demand for industrial buildings, which house both e-commerce tenants seeking spaces close to their customers to speed delivery times, as well as building materials suppliers. The building could accommodate up to four tenants, Clay said. Potential tenants include suppliers of products such as plumbing, flooring, electrical or air conditioning. Most of the new industrial buildings going up in Houston are in the northwest, southeast and north submarkets. Those markets account for 86 percent of the 8.3 million square feet under construction, according to the JLL real estate firm. Other speculative industrial projects are going up closer to Bush Intercontinental Airport. Houston-based Archway Properties and Ridgeline Property Group of Atlanta are developing a 685,400-square-foot warehouse targeting e-commerce tenants at Park Air 59 at U.S. 59 and Will Clayton Parkway. The project, also being developed before securing tenants, will wrap up about the same time as Sheldon Distribution Center I in the second quarter. John Ferruzzo, John Simons and Ryan Searle of NAI Partners, along with Charlie Christ of Clay Development & Construction, will handle leasing. Frost Bank provided construction financing. katherine.feser@chron.com twitter.com/kfeser This article, Why you got a Trump text: FEMA's new test alert, explained, originally appeared on CNET.com. Don't worry: The government didn't just spam you. On Wednesday, the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System sent a test message to everyone using a cellphone in the US that runs on a network operated by a carrier participating in the Wireless Emergency Alert system. You'd know you got the message if the header read "Presidential Alert." The content of the message also made it clear that the message is only a drill. It'll read: "THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed." If you've ever received an Amber Alert on your phone, the WEA test probably looked similar. That's because both types of messages are sent through the same Federal Emergency Management Agency system. The WEA, launched in 2012, can be traced back to the 2006 Warning, Alert, and Response Network Act passed by Congress to fund a new emergency alert system called for by President George W. Bush. The moves came after criticism of the federal government's handling of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. This week's alert marks the first time the system has been tested nationwide. While Wednesday's alert was only a test, an actual presidential alert would mark a significant national crisis. "When those messages appear on mobile devices, people should take those extremely seriously," Antwane Johnson, director of the IPAWS system, told CBS News. "It has some direct impact on either life or safety." How FEMA's emergency test works The test message was sent out at 11:18 a.m. PT/2:18 p.m. ET on Wednesday, though FEMA said it might take a few minutes for the test to make it to all phones. Your phone might have alerted you that the test message arrived in a slightly different manner than normal text notifications. "WEA includes a special tone (some describe it as quite loud) and a vibration, both repeated twice," according to a description on the FEMA website. Most newer wireless phones are WEA-compatible, but you can check your phone's packaging or instructions to see if it is WEA-capable. WEA may also be referred to as "government alerts" or "emergency alerts." All the major national wireless carriers and most smaller service providers participate in the WEA program. Of course, to receive the alert, your phone had to be turned on and connected to a cell tower that allows you to connect to your participating carrier. While most WEA-enabled phones have a setting to turn off Amber Alerts and emergency alerts sent through the system, a Presidential Alert can't be blocked and should make it through on any compatible phone and network. The WEA test was to be followed by a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, which is a similar message that will be played over broadcast radio and television stations, at 11:20 a.m. PT/2:20 p.m. ET. Both tests were originally planned for Sept. 20 but were postponed until Oct. 3 because of Hurricane Florence. Originally published Oct. 2 at 1:56 p.m. PT. Updated Oct. 3 at 5:59 a.m. PT: Added comment from FEMA's Antwane Johnson. Updated Oct. 3 at 11:22 a.m. PT: To reflect what just occurred. 'Hello, humans': Google's Duplex could make Assistant the most lifelike AI yet. Tech Enabled: CNET chronicles tech's role in providing new kinds of accessibility. Alamo City Comic Con just made it easier to lug around all those action figures, superhero prints and other geeky goodies at the event. The comic book and pop culture convention, which runs Oct. 26-28 at the Alamodome, will not allow full-size backpacks, but will allow tote bags, drawstring bags, poster tubes and portfolio carriers, no doubt a relief for fans of celebrity autographs and other convention merchandise. The allowance loosens the restrictions of the Alamodomes clear bag policy, which limits the size and type of bags brought into the facility, and is just for Alamo City Comic Con. RELATED: Jeff Goldblum will be at San Antonio's Alamo City Comic Con We have partnered with The Alamodome to ensure the culture and nature of our event reflect in the bag policy, Alamo City Comic Con posted on Instagram. Clear bags are not required, but as safety is the upmost importance to us all, bags will be subject to security checks. All guests also must go through metal detector security checks before they enter the event. As for costumed attendees, Alamo City Comic Con rules state that cosplayers will be subject to inspection by the San Antonio Police Department. Prop weapons must be plastic or foam; no real swords, knives, etc., will be allowed. Any item deemed a weapon may be confiscated. This years Alamo City Comic Con promises a bumper crop of famous faces from the big and small screen as well as the comic book pages. Special guests include Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jeff Goldblum, Rick Moranis, Neve Campbell and Daphne Zuniga, plus comic artist Jim Lee and comic writer Sean Kelley McKeever. Special guests with ties to San Antonio include E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial star Henry Thomas and Hugo Award-winning fantasy artist John Picacio. Rene A. Guzman is a features writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | rguzman@express-news.net | Twitter: @reneguz Adapted from a recent online discussion. Dear Carolyn: I have been married to my husband for over 30 years. We have a 30-year-old son who is not the biological offspring of my husband. My husband has been aware of this since before my son's birth. When my son finished college, my husband and I told him this. We advised that we were willing to answer any questions and that if he was interested, his biological father was willing to meet him, or answer questions, etc. My son was upset and has never mentioned it again. It's been 10 years now, and I am wondering, is this normal? Do I have any other responsibilities? -- DNA and Denial No, you have no other responsibilities. Is it normal? Certainly seems within the range -- some people just don't want to talk about stuff. There's a tendency I think to pathologize this, but as long as a person is functioning well on the sleeping-dog plan, I don't see any reason anyone should start waking stuff up. He knows, so, it's up to him now. Dear Carolyn: My 25-year-old daughter has been really good friends with a 65-year-old man through a shared hobby. He is not your average 65-year-old -- he is somewhat ageless. He is also extremely respectful and accepting of all people. My daughter is also not like others her age. She relates to older people well and always has. Recently, their relationship has veered toward the romantic, somewhat to their dismay. They both accept this has many drawbacks and may not end well. They would hate to lose their friendship over this. When she told me, I was very supportive because of what I see between the two of them. My husband is sort of OK with it too. I would like your take on this, though I am afraid to ask since you have not met either of them. -- Anonymous Two adults? Love is love. I am sorry to hear you were afraid to ask. I haven't bitten anyone in months. Dear Carolyn: After years of infertility and two miscarriages, I just found out I'm pregnant again. I feel numb, like I shouldn't get excited because I might jinx myself. I'm also nervous. How do I stay the course until I can have an ultrasound and get a better sense of whether this pregnancy will stick? -- Nervous You just get there however you can get there -- watch good movies and TV or read books to distract you, cook or go out for healthy things to feed you, talk to laid-back people to calm and support you. If weather permits, get outside somewhere beautiful. Fingers crossed. Re: Pregnancy: A common saying on pregnancy and loss boards is, "Today I am pregnant." Make that your mantra. It could help keep you in the moment rather than obsessing about future what-ifs. -- In the Moment Thank you. A few people wrote in to suggest this, which reminds me of how established and strong the support resources are for people dealing with infertility. Resolve.org is a good place to start. Southwest Airlines' biannual sale is back. Customers have 72 hours to enjoy discounted flights to 18 destinations around the country. Prices begin as low as $49 for one-way tickets to in-state locations. Flights to other destinations range from $79 to $129 each way during the sale. All tickets must be purchased by 11:59 p.m. Thursday. HARTFORD The state gave the initial green light to two new charter schools, one in Norwalk and the other in Danbury, both of which can only open if and when the state Legislature provides the funding. It would be Danburys first charter school and Norwalks second. The action came on Wednesday on consecutive 7-to-1 votes of the state Board of Education. Both times, board member Erin Benham, a Meriden teacher, voted no. The actions followed a morning-long public session where dozens of speakers testified largely in support of both charters, and after some pointed board questions were raised about less than stellar scores given to the charter school applications. The Danbury Prospect Charter School would start with 110 sixth-graders and grow a grade each year until it is a 6th-through-12th grade college preparatory school of 550 students five years out. It would be modeled after the Brooklyn Prospect Charter School which operates four charter schools in New York. The Norwalk Charter School for Excellence would be a Pre-K to fifth-grade elementary school, starting with 168 prekindergarten through first-grade students and grow to a 392-student liberal arts school aligned with the Common Core state standards. It, too, has New York roots, to be modeled after the Bronx Charter School for Excellence in New York and the Stamford Charter School for Excellence which opened in 2015. Timing and locations for both depend largely if the applicants can convince the legislature and the states new governor to invest more in charter schools than the state already does. The Danbury charter school operators say they are looking downtown. The Norwalk charter told the board they would like to locate in that citys south end. The two approved charter schools are among five that applied to the board last January and the only ones recommended to the board. Commissioner of Education Dianna Wentzell called the two the most viable of applications submitted. The state now funds 23 charter schools, with one in Willimantic surrendering its charter over the summer before the state Board of Education could close it amid charges that it misspent $1.6 million. After two decades of slowly increasing the number of charter schools that run independent of local school board control, the state board remains supportive of them but has tightened oversight. A number including The Bridge Academy in Bridgeport have been put on probation in recent years and have been given shorter renewals. The state board also rejected a recent request to give several existing charter schools including Capital Prep Harbor in Bridgeport funding for more seats than their charters allow. The state gives its charter schools $11,250 for each approved seats that is filled. Despite the concerns, many board members expressed a willingness to stick with charter schools as a vehicle for school choice. Speakers did too. From the chambers perspective this would be a huge positive for the city of Danbury and the surrounding towns, P.J. Prunty, president of the Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce said. Please vote yes, urged Chris Mercer, a parent from Norwalk. Irving Fox, a former Danbury school board member and current city council member, said he is aware of public school challenges and sees a charter school as a way for a new infusion of resources. Our students are in dire need of additional high quality seats especially at the secondary level, Fox said. Melissa Asarz sends her 7-year-old to the Stamford Charter School of Excellence whose operators want to open the same kind of charter school in Norwalk. They are building leaders, Azarz said. I cant praise them enough. I believe in them. Jeff Leake, president of the Connecticut Education Association, told the board his organization is opposed to expansion of the charter school industry in the state. We believe charter schools should be non-profit, accountable, transparent and operate without diverting funds from neighborhood schools to third-party management organizations, Leake said. He asked if the state can afford to expand a parallel system of schools in Connecticut. A number of local school superintendents submitted written testimony that echoed that thought. Norwalk Schools Superintendent Steven J. Adamowski wrote that while he is generally supportive of all forms of public school choice, he questioned the need for another charter school in Norwalk. The city is already home to Side by Side Charter School. The Charter School of Excellence may be a better choice for a district where students and families may not enjoy the same level of diversity, Adamowski wrote. Danbury Schools Superintendent Sal V. Pascarella told the board in a written statement that his board wants assurances the new charter will result in zero costs to the district. Bethel Schools Superintendent Christine Carver said she wondered, given the states financial straits, that a new charter school should even be considered. Danbury Mayor Mark Boughton, meanwhile, wrote a letter in strong support of the Danbury charter, saying it can only strengthen the citys educational landscape. The state board focused its discussion on the applications and changes made to the process since the last time new charter schools were approved. Board member Joseph Vrabely said he is a choice person but wants applicants to know the board is not the one that provides the funding. Estela Lopez, the board vice chair, questioned application weaknesses, particularly as it relates to student testings and curriculum. Here is my concern. I want to make sure that you are ready, Lopez said when addressing the Norwalk applicants. Charlene Reid, chief executive officer of the Excellence Schools, chalked criticism up to the way the application was written and not what is happening in its existing charter schools. The Stamford school has scored high on student tests. Still, Benham said, she struggled. I wouldnt expect scores to be so low, she said of the rating the Norwalk charter received from department staff. BRIDGEPORT Jean Stott sat cross-legged on a new grave at Park Cemetery Wednesday afternoon, her tears darkening the freshly turned soil. My grandfather is supposed to be buried here, the Shelton woman cried. But now I dont know where he is. A small stone at the head of the grave has the name of the World War II veteran Richard Bouchard, who died in 1979. But right in front of Bouchards stone is a marker and a photo of Lucila Torres, who appears to have been buried in the same spot just two weeks ago. Like Stott, dozens of people from all over the state descended on the Lindley Street cemetery Wednesday, following publication of a story by Hearst Connecticut Media about human bone fragments and broken casket parts found by police around the cemetery evidence, they said, that older graves were moved to make room for new ones. People raced to the final resting places of loved ones, some whooping for joy on finding graves intact, others wandering around in a daze, or like Stott, sobbing on finding someone else apparently buried in their familys plot. Sandy Franklin, of Bethel, who has relatives spanning a number of generations buried in the cemetery, pointed out places where two stones from unrelated people had been placed together on plots, while other stones had just been turned over, hiding the inscriptions. The only pristine stone appeared to belong to cemetery manager Dale LaPrade, and was inscribed with her name and a birth date. LaPrade is alive, but she was not around on Thursday. More for you Human bones, casket pieces found scattered in cemetery Heartbroken relatives Bridgeport Police Chief Armando Perez said the situation at the cemetery was disheartening, but likely not criminal. It appears she (LaPrade) is an older person who is running the cemetery and perhaps doesnt have the skills necessary to do so but it does not appear that it rises to criminal activity and an arrest, the chief said after reviewing the results of an investigation by his detectives. Cheryl Jansen, formerly of Shelton who has four generations of her family buried in the 140-year-old Lindley Street cemetery, said she is disappointed with the chiefs explanation, but not surprised. There are no real penalties for what (LaPrade) did, and I think thats what the police found out, Jansen said. A spokesperson for the state Department of Consumer Protection said it has received no complaints regarding Park Cemetery and referred a reporter to the state Department of Public Health, which licenses cemeteries. That department did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Jansen, who now lives in Florida, filed a lawsuit against LaPrade seeking to have her fired and replaced with another manager. A Superior Court judge is considering her request. During a hearing in court on Tuesday, police detectives Jorge Cintron and Kimberly Biehn told Superior Court Judge Elizabeth Stewart that dozens of headstones, some dating to the 1800s, had been moved at Park Cemetery so the newly dead could be buried in plots stacked on old graves. New dirt was put over older graves and new graves were put there, Biehn testified. There was fresh soil over old head stones and they were in the process of building an access road through the stones, Cintron testified. In the woods we found old headstones and human bones that had just been thrown around. Cintron said a grave digger told him he had been ordered by LaPrade to throw old bones and caskets away to make room for new graves. Its disheartening at best, Perez said. Money troubles Several area funeral homes still do business with Park Cemetery, even though a cemetery historian testified at the hearing that most of the cemetery was already fully occupied years ago. The George Peterson Funeral home has a burial scheduled there on Friday. We have never had any issues with the cemetery, said funeral director Leslie Vincent. I use the cemetery a lot, said Andre Baker Jr., director of the Baker-Isaac Funeral Home. Ive dealt with her (LaPrade), she has always been polite and forthcoming in making arrangements with us and our families. Ive never experienced any problems, nothing unusual. David Larson, director of Larson Funeral Home, said he used Park Cemetery in the past. Im familiar with Dale and have not had any problems, but its obvious the conditions at the cemetery have deteriorated over the years, said Larson. I always just assumed it was because of a lack of funding. Jansen said the cemetery is owned by an association made up of the families who have loved ones buried there. She believes that LaPrade and her husband started as employees of the cemetery more than 10 years ago and slipped into the role of managers after a vacancy. LaPrades husband no longer works there because of health issues. Court records show the LaPrades are being sued for more than $9,000 owed a company for trash pickup at the cemetery. The couple lost their Stratford home to foreclosure last year. LaPrade did not return calls for comment. Dale LaPrade, although issued a subpoena, did not appear for the court hearing. She had had multiple opportunities to come to court and tell her story and she didnt do it, Jansen said. She is old and has some disabilities, and my goal is just to get rid of her and get someone in there who can run it right. Who would have thought you would have to worry about your loved ones after they are gone? Jansen said. Its like going through their deaths all over again. GREENWICH As she takes over officially as president and CEO of Abilis, Amy Montimurro wont be facing much of a learning curve. Montimurro knows the work of the Greenwich-based nonprofit agency and the people it helps because she has been a part of Abilis for 22 years. After starting out as a manager for the residential programs at the agency, which provides services and support for more than 700 individuals with special needs of all ages and their families, Montimurro has risen through the ranks. She has been involved in all aspects of Abilis work, with a lot of interaction with the staff, the clients and their families as well. Ive probably worked in every position that touches the lives of the people we support from children to young adults to seniors, she said. I know the perspective from the people we serve, the staff that are providing the daily care and the fears and dreams of our families. Im able to empathize with each person that we work with. Its given me the ability to have a better understanding in this role of everyones needs. Montimurro had served as interim CEO since the July retirement of Dennis Perry. But now she is officially in the top job and is hard at work looking to the nonprofits future. For the immediate future, she pledged to develop and expand services for the community Abilis serves in areas such as housing and employment opportunities, including a new partnership with Greenwich Hospital for internships. The offerings at Abilis have also recently expanded, including a new Disney club and a single and mingle group. Abilis always has been and will continue to be a very responsive organization for each individuals, Montimurro said. There will be challenges ahead, said Montimurro, who has been involved in developing Abilis strategic plan. One of the challenges is getting enough funding at a time of state budget cutbacks, she said. But through her close relationships with staff, families and the board of directors, Montimurro feels confident she knows what needs to be done. She said Abilis is already moving in the right direction, maintaining its reputation as a place for people to go for services and assistance even as it expands. One of the challenges is getting enough funding at a time of state budget cutbacks, Montimurro said. Abilis has expanded recently into Ridgefield and Stamford, and it has also focused more on private fundraising. That includes recent events like the Dancing Stars of Greenwich fundraiser. Several Greenwich residents paired up with dancers of the Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Greenwich to raise money for Abilis with celebrity judges actor Brendan Fraser and model Paulina Porizkova. Abiliss biggest fundraiser of the year, its annual walk/run will be held Oct. 14 at Greenwich Point. To sign up, visit www.abilis.us/calendar/abilis-special-events/1820-walk-run-for-abilis-2018.html. We are continuing to research different kinds of foundations and different avenues of fundraising, Montimurro said. Fundraising events like the dancing and our walk and run are essential. We do more than what the state provides. We always have, and we will continue to need to focus on our marketing to raise the awareness of the organization, which has helped us a great deal. We are on the right path. The close relationships she has developed over the years will pay off in meeting the needs of the people Ablis serves, she said. Relationships are essential, Montimurro said. I know what their dreams are. I know what the parents fears are. Parents are always wondering, What will happen when Im gone? Whos going to take care of my child? It has been my passion to make sure families can sleep well at night and have some peace knowing that we are here to take care of their children. Thats what has kept Montimurro on the job there for 22 years. We have an amazing, dedicated, hard working team of employees, and its really magical to be here every day, she said. I see people getting jobs. I see people getting their own homes. Knowing them and their changing needs is so important and we will see the people we serve through their senior years. kborsuk@greenwichtime.com NEW MILFORD The school board has authorized up to another $70,000 to remove and replace the oil tank at Hill and Plain Elementary School. Interim Superintendent Stephen Tracy said the additional money is needed because workers last week discovered the schools electrical transformer and switchbox were on top of the tank. Disturbing the box by removing the tank would have caused the school to shut down for two weeks so officials decided to empty it, seal it off and abandon it in place. Water is located about eight feet underground, so a new underground oil tank couldnt be installed. Instead, officials have decided to switch to an above ground tank, which tends to be more expensive. Fortunately the digging was done carefully, the problem was discovered and were able to get it done with no disruption to the school, Tracy said. In May, the school board approved ETT Environmental Services to replace the underground oil tank at Hill and Plain for $92,000. The money for the project will come from the schools capital reserve. Hill and Plain is the first of the three school tanks to be replaced. The other two Sarah Noble Intermediate School and the Lillis administration building are being considered with the towns three tanks. Hill and Plain is the only tank that solely heats the building and so is cold-weather dependent. We want to prepare our building properly for the heating season, said school board Chairman David Lawson. Part of the $70,000 can be used to cover a temporary oil system if needed, Tracy said. The work is expected to be done by mid-November, he said. School officials discovered they needed to replace the three 10,000-gallon fuel tanks last fall after pulling permits to add check valves. The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection requires fuel tanks be replaced when they reach 30 years old a deadline established by the manufacturers and enforced by the state. If a tank is left in the ground after this deadline, the owner is charged a $10,000 fine for each tank and a daily fine until it is removed. To meet this stipulation, New Milford must complete the work this calendar year. Oil tanks were installed at Sarah Noble and Hill and Plain in 1989. Its unknown when the tank was installed at the Lillis Building, but its estimated to be at least 25 years old. The tank for Sarah Noble doesnt have to be done before it gets cold because the building is heated with natural gas and the fuel tank is required more to power the generator, which is used if the town needs an emergency shelter. kkoerting@newstimes.com; 203-731-3345 STAMFORD It appeared Wednesday that a majority of city lawmakers will sign a letter Mayor David Martin wants to see before he restores loose-leaf pickup this fall. Martin wants members of the Board of Representatives to assure him that they will fairly and promptly consider fee increases he plans to propose before he agrees to rescind bagged-leaf pickup, set to begin Oct. 29. With trees starting to turn, the back-and-forth has created confusion for residents, who this week received postcards saying they must bag their leaves for the city to collect them. Martin said he wants representatives to say they will help him raise revenue to pay for the more costly loose-leaf pickup and other expenses. I am very optimistic that we will be able to return to the traditional leaf-pickup program, the mayor said Wednesday morning. I believe the majority of the board does want to help, and I am not asking for anything that isnt part of their responsibilities. Board President Matthew Quinones said Wednesday evening that 22 of the 40 representatives had signed the letter. From what I can tell, weve met the threshold set by the mayor, Quinones said. 5-month conflict The letter, written by Quinones, reflects the controversy behind this years pickup. Martin dropped the decades-long practice of collecting loose leaves at the curb and instituted the bag program after representatives made a last-minute, $1.4 million cut to his requested budget increase in May. To find savings, Martin cut the Fourth of July fireworks show, lifeguard hours and stopped lining some ballfields. But residents and representatives reacted strongly when he announced in late summer that leaves must be bagged because it would save at least $227,000. Martin said it also would help the city comply with state regulations requiring that leaves be kept out of storm drains to prevent nitrogen and phosphorous from harming Long Island Sound. More for you Stamford moves forward with plastic bag ban, leaf pickup plan Quinones wrote in his letter to Martin that the 11th-hour switch left residents in a bind, transferring the pickup expense and effort from the city to them. His statement is consistent with an overwhelming board vote Monday that amended the leaf-collection ordinance to allow loose and bagged pickup. We do not believe that this is the appropriate year to discontinue the loose-leaf program. Nevertheless, we understand your environmental and operational concerns, and the need to manage the citys finances, Quinones wrote to Martin. Therefore, provided that the loose-leaf program is reinstated this year under its traditional terms, myself along with the below signatories agree to use good-faith efforts to, on a timely basis, review and enact reasonable proposals to raise revenue. Not binding Quinones attached another letter addressed to the board, saying he welcomes responses from members who disagree with the non-binding compromise with Martin. My efforts to garner a majority of the board to add their names to the letter are to ensure that we have loose-leaf pickup, if thats the vehicle representatives have to ensure that the program will continue this year, Quinones said Wednesday. I know my constituents want this program, and if it means I have to sign a letter to look at fees when they come down, well, I would have done that anyway. Rep. Mary Fedeli, R-17, the boards minority leader, took a similar view. I signed the letter because I have said I will review the fees in good faith. My word is my word, so I have no problem putting my name to it, Fedeli said. It doesnt mean I will vote for every fee the mayor sends us, but I will certainly review it. Martin said most of the fees he wants to increase have not changed in many years, and Stamford undercharges compared to other municipalities. The ones hes considering include health inspection fees, building fees, and parking charges and fines, he said. It can take two to three months to pass and enact fee increases, and he would like the board to do it soon because he needs revenue this fiscal year, Martin said. Fedeli said she understands. There have been some issues where fees took four to six months to pass, and I dont think we have that kind of time now, she said. We have to look at the fees carefully, and get our questions asked and answered, but we need to do it in an expedient manner. Roped in? Among those who refused to sign the letter is Rep. Rodney Pratt, D-9, the boards majority leader. Its too late to switch to bagging, and the city must try to improve loose-leaf pickup before eliminating it, Pratt said, but he has too many questions about the request for signatures to add his name to the letter. The people spoke they dont want bagged pickup. We passed an ordinance giving them the choice, Pratt said. How do we create an ordinance then turn around and say we will raise fees because of it? He wrote the board a letter explaining his view, Pratt said. We took an oath to serve our communities. Why would we sign a document to reinforce that, like our oath doesnt mean anything? he said. To me, signing a letter makes it seem like I am roped into doing something I might decide is not fair. I have to keep an open mind, that is my job. It feels like I would be signing away my right to choose, like Im working for the mayors office instead of the public. Martin said he wanted signatures because I want to know the count. I think the majority of the board recognizes whats necessary to move the city forward. If we all accept our roles, we can get things done. The ordinance passed Monday cannot be enforced this year because there is no money to pay for loose-leaf pickup unless the city raises more revenue, Martin said. The idea of using ordinances to force the mayor to do things that we cant afford to do wont work, he said. The city will mail new postcards explaining the dates and rules for loose-leaf pickup, Martin said. The second set of mailings to all 30,000 households will cost about $10,000, he said. acarella@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2296. Choosing between California and Maryland for his primary residence seems to have been a bit confusing for a congressional candidate. TJ Cox, a Democrat, is running in a close race in California. He claimed two houses - one, a roughly $1 million home in Bethesda, Maryland, and another in Fresno, California - as his primary residence, according to an article in the Fresno Bee. Federal tax laws don't allow a person to claim more than one. His staff said that it was an "honest mistake" and that he'll repay $692 he received from Montgomery County, Maryland, in a tax credit. At first, Cox's staff had said it was the fault of tax collectors in Maryland. In California, Cox is running against Rep. David Valadao, R, for the state's 21st Congressional District seat. Cox's staff did not immediately return a phone call or email from The Washington Post seeking comment. Montgomery County tax records show Cox owns a $968,100 house on Silverwood Lane in Bethesda. The Fresno Bee reported that he claimed it as his primary residence in 2016, 2017 and 2018. And he did the same for his home in Fresno. At first, a Cox spokesman told the newspaper that the residency mistake was the fault of Maryland tax collectors. But the explanation changed after staff members were shown a notarized public document that Cox had signed and initialed stating that Maryland was his primary residence. One spokesman told the Bee that it was "an honest mistake that he filled out the principal residence not knowing the legal definitions. His family was living there." According to Cox's staff, the Bethesda home was bought for his wife and four children while she studied at Johns Hopkins University and he worked in Fresno. The Fresno Bee said state property records show that the Bethesda house is no longer named as his principal residence. Officials of the Hamilton County Water and Wastewater Treatment Authority (WWTA) said Tuesday a site at 7800 Mahan Gap Road was among 10 considered for a new sewage treatment plant to serve the growing Ooltewah area. The Hamilton County Commission on Wednesday is set to consider a financing agreement with the WWTA that will allow the agency to purchase the 157-acre parcel "to meet future needs." The cost of the property is $2.6 million. Closing costs are anticipated to be no more than $400,000 with a total cost of $3 million to conclude the sale. WWTA officlals said the first consideration was at the countys landfil. However, the property was dismissed from consideration due to the topography of the site and cost to construct at that location. The site selected by the WWTA has 77 contiguous acres above the 100-year floodplain in two distinct areas and is suitable as a treatment facility, it was stated. In addition, officials said, "The site's size allows for significant buffering to provide a more pleasing aesthetic to the community." The WWTA plans to use less than one-third of the site for the plant with three acres or less in exposed sewer, it was stated. WWTA officials said, "This new facility will be much smaller than the City of Chattanoogas wastewater treatment facility. By comparison, the WWTA treatment facility will be sized to treat less than ten percent of the citys facility and occupy a much smaller footprint. In addition, there will be a significant investment in odor control and landscaping from the start of the project. "Like cities and counties across the state of Tennessee, Chattanooga and Hamilton County are facing state and federally mandated clean-ups of their sewer facilities to make the environment safer as communities grow. The cost to mitigate the local issue is over $500 million. In Memphis, the cost is $250 million; while in Knoxville the cost is $540 million. The cost jumps to over $1.3 billion in Nashville." The WWTA plan calls for treated water to go into the Tennessee River near the Sequoyah Nuclear Plant. While they are not sure of the exact location, they know that the plant will not be discharging treated water through the tributaries along Savannah Bay and into Harrison Bay, it was stated. WWTA Executive Director Mark Harrison said, Protecting the environment and planning for growth can go hand-in-hand and certainly will for this project. Theres no way wed ever try to send treated water through areas that might have a negative impact on our valuable creeks and tributaries. We believe that the Tennessee Department of Environment of Conservation wouldnt approve a plan that will take such a route. Mr. Harrison said citizens have been r"eaching out to the WWTA since the project came up during last weeks Hamilton County Commission agenda session. We appreciate the thoughtful comments and concerns weve received. We will be posting frequently asked questions on our Facebook page and encourage people to look there for answers. In addition, he said a public meeting has been scheduled on Thursday, Oct. 11, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Fire Hall Training Center located at 9100 Snow Hill Road in Ooltewah. Officials said, "Homes in the area that are on septic will not have to connect to the line; however, as septic tanks fail over time, having an option that will serve the most amount of customers for the least amount of money is one that makes sense in the fastest growing area of Hamilton County. Sewer systems are also far more environmentally friendly than septic systems for growing communities." If the financing plan is approved by the County Commission, the project will then move into zoning for consideration before the plant can be finalized. WWTA Board Chairman Mike Moon said throughout the process, the WWTA will hold public meetings to keep the public informed and involved. He said, Its important for the community to know the challenges were facing to keep the environment safe both now and in the future. We appreciate the concerns weve heard and will continue to develop a plan that addresses environmental demands as we meet community need. The WWTA) is responsible for the public sewer system throughout the unincorporated areas of Hamilton County, Tennessee, and the surrounding municipalities of East Ridge, Lakesite, Lookout Mountain, Red Bank, Ridgeside, Signal Mountain, and Soddy Daisy. Its purpose is to protect the environment and public by regulating the quality of water discharged through the wastewater collection system and treatment works. The WWTA regulates the expansion of sewers and ensures compliancy with the provisions of the Clean Water act as well as other federal, state, and local laws. Created in 1993 by the Hamilton County Commission, the WWTA is comprised of over 500 miles of collection lines, 60 pump stations, 900 grinder pumps, two wastewater treatment facilities, and services for more than 30,000 customers. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS NORTH HAMILTON WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT ? Where will the treated wastewater be discharged? The treated wastewater will be pumped approximately 7 miles to a discharge point in the main channel of the Tennessee River near Sequoyah Nuclear Plant. There will be no discharge into the Savannah Creek Drainage Basin that flows into Harrison Bay. ? What will the WWTA do to minimize any odor coming from the plant? Our number one goal in construction and operation of the treatment plant is to minimize odor. The plant will be constructed and operated with the minimization of any emanating odor. Methods, equipment and operations will attempt to ensure that little, if any, smells will be perceptible. The amount of exposed solids would only be one to three acres compared to Moccasin Bend Treatment plants 15.5 acres. ? Will homeowners on septic have to connect to sewer? As long as the septic system is operating correctly the homeowner wont have to connect to the line. At some point in the future if the septic tank fails, then the homeowner would be required to connect to the sewer line, but only if the line is available near the residence. Being on a sewer system is more environmentally friendly for future growth versus septic systems. ? Why cant the WWTA just pump the wastewater to Chattanoogas Moccasin Bend treatment facility? The Moccasin Bend plant is presently operating at maximum capacity and, the WWTA has already reached our current capacity that was recently negotiated with the City of Chattanooga. If a new agreement was in place with the City of Chattanooga, and they had available capacity, the WWTA would have to pump the wastewater approximately 40- miles due to terrain and availability of easements. Pumping such distances increases the risk of failures (spills) and is very costly. ? How does this proposed facility compare in size to the one operated by the City on Moccasin bend? The Moccasin Bend facility operates on roughly 80 acres out of a total 184 acres with no buffers, alsong some portions of its perimeter. The proposed plant would operate on less than 50 acres out of a total of 157 acres and will contain buffers to neighboring land and structures. ? How will this proposed construction be funded? The Hamilton County Commission will obtain bond funds that will be paid back, over time, with WWTA rate payer revenue. ? How long before proposed treatment plant is operational? Once the land is purchased, it will take five to seven years before the plant would become operational. There are several steps the WWTA must take before construction may begin. ? How will this impact the public health? The new sewer system will prevent overflows of non-treated water into waterways. Septic systems fail; however, with a sewer system that has adequate capacity both now and in the future, the WWTA is positioning the community for a safer environment as well as effective and efficient service. From flush to finish, this plan positions Hamilton County for growth for the next four decades. ALBANY The lawyer for a former state Senate aide charged with beating and choking his ex-girlfriend delved into the woman's mental health history Wednesday and suggested she had made "false allegations" in the past. James Knox, the lawyer for ex-Senate counsel Robert Nickol, also highlighted the woman's use of marijuana and a past suicide attempt in which she tried to drive into a tree. The woman testified in Albany County Court for the second consecutive day at the domestic violence trial of Nickol, 32, her former live-in boyfriend on North Main Avenue. "Is it correct that you made false allegations in the past?" Knox asked the woman, who is not being identified by the Times Union. "I don't know how to answer that," she replied. Knox pressed, asking the the 30-year-old if she had ever accused her father of striking her. She said she did not make that accusation, though it was investigated. "Was it true?" Knox asked. "I don't have a memory if it," the woman replied. Knox asked if she recently called State Police in Queensbury because she believed Nickol hacked into her phone and deleted photos and notes relevant to the trial. She said she had. "Do you have any proof that Bob Nickol did that?" Knox asked. She said it was still under investigation. Nickol is charged with felony strangulation and two counts of misdemeanor assault. Prosecutors allege Nickol, a former $92,000-a-year counsel for Sen. William Larkin, R-Orange County, attacked the woman on three occasions between June 2015 and September 2017. The couple met in the fall of 2013 and began living together within a month. The woman testified that on June 14, 2015, Nichol slapped her, shoved her and tried to strangle her following an argument in their apartment. In late March 2017, she said Nickol slapped her across the face, an incident that led her to seek help at Albany Medical Center Hospital and spend a night in a motel. On Sept. 8, 2017, the woman said Nickol whipped her in the leg with a television cord. Nickol, who was arrested following the third alleged incident of abuse, remained on the Senate payroll until his indictment in February, when he resigned. On Wednesday, Knox repeatedly reminded the woman that she could have left Nickol but continued to live with him. The lawyer suggested that her memory of the March incident may not be accurate given her admitted use of marijuana. She said her doctor prescribed it for her legally but acknowledged she had purchased it from a friend. "Were you smoking marijuana that night?" Knox asked. "Probably," she said. "Is it possible that you are misremembering what happened that night?" Knox asked. "No," she replied. After the cross-examination was complete, attorneys delivered final arguments. Assistant District Attorney Matthew Schrantz told the jury his client was upfront on the witness stand about her personal problems. She told the defendant about her issues with post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and suicide attempts on their first date, he said. The prosecutor said Nickol took advantage of those problems. "She was the perfect target. She was someone who could be controlled," Schrantz said. "She had that emotional vulnerability that, for someone who wants to control and have power over somebody, they can't have a better target." In his summation, Knox claimed the alleged victim has a "casual relationship with the truth" and was "conflating things that did not happen" in the September 2017 incident. Knox reminded jurors the woman testified that in June 2015, Nickol struck her once in the leg with a television cord and swung and missed a second time. She previously told a grand jury it was twice. There was "only one bruise," Knox said. Going even further, Knox said the victim shouldn't be believed in part because she failed to fight back. "Everything she testified to was about what Bob was doing to her: Bob is holding her down, Bob has a towel in her face, Bob has a hand on her neck," Knox told the jury. "But it doesn't make sense that someone would just passively accept someone doing this to them." "No one in this (room) just lets someone do that. They would be fighting back. ... There was no testimony about any of that," he said. "That was her opportunity to tell the story, and nothing about that story rang true," Knox said, "because we're just left to believe this all just happened and she was some passive actor throughout it." Jurors, who began deliberating following instructions from Judge Peter Lynch, will return Thursday morning. Trinity College Dublin presented Caitriona Lally last week with the Rooney Prize for Irish Literature, one of Ireland's most prestigious literary honors. The prize committee praised her book, "Eggshells," as "a work of impressive imaginative reach, witty, subtle and occasionally endearingly unpredictable." For the past three and a half years, Lally has worked as a janitor at the college. The day the call came from the prize committee, Lally was so shocked - and the experience felt so out of context - that she asked the person who told her she had won the award to please explain it again. Of course, she had long known the reputation of the award - an enormous honor given annually by Trinity College to a writer under 40 who shows great talent and "exceptional promise." "But at that moment, I couldn't figure out what a Rooney was," Lally, 39, said in an email to The Washington Post, adding that her book had been published three years ago. Lally called the honor "the happiest shock of my life." Each morning she wakes at 4:45 a.m., pulls on her blue janitor's smock and heads for the college to clean from 6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Then she returns home to take care of her 14-month-old daughter, Alice. The day she got the call over the summer informing her she had won, Alice was being fussy. "I'd been having a rough day - up early for my cleaning job, tearing home to mind the baby, baby wouldn't nap and was making her feelings known," Lally told Trinity College. Once Lally realized that she had won the award - and that it came with a 10,000-euro prize (about $11,500) - she described it as "just pure magic." Lally had not applied for the award; the prize committee selects the nominees. Winners over the years have become some of Ireland's best-known writers, including Anne Enright and Frank McGuinness. The benefactor of the prize is Peter Rooney, who took over from his uncle, Dan Rooney, former U.S. ambassador to Ireland and chairman of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who died last year. Lally said she plans to use the prize money to pay her bills and provide day care for her daughter, as well as buy a water tank for her attic. "I'd rather say I'm bathing in Dom Perignon and flying first class to Las Vegas, but practicalities take priority," she said by email. The author's path to literary acclaim has been marked by plenty of rejection and job hopping. Lally attended Trinity College Dublin as an undergraduate student and studied English. To offset expenses, she worked as a custodian for the college while she was a student. "I spent a couple of summers working as a cleaner in Trinity," she wrote to The Post. "I spring-cleaned student residences after they vacated them, then worked as a chambermaid when guests came to stay in the college in the summer months. The spring cleaning was tough work - a year's worth of grime doesn't shift easily!" She became close friends with some of the other housekeepers and said she enjoyed her college experience studying literature. After graduating in 2004, Lally worked as an English teacher in Japan for a year and then traveled a lot. Back in Ireland, she held various jobs, including as a copywriter, and she went to New York for a time as a home helper. She found herself unemployed in 2011, which was when she got the idea for "Eggshells." " 'Eggshells' is about a socially isolated misfit who walks around Dublin searching for patterns and meaning in graffiti or magical-sounding place names or small doors that could lead to another world," Lally wrote to The Post. "I spent the guts of a year wandering around Dublin in 2011, the year I was unemployed. I had been laid off from my job in the recession and was walking the streets myself looking for 'staff wanted' signs, and came up with the idea of my character, Vivian, who's just looking to belong, to connect with someone," she said. Lally finally got a job in data entry and decided to develop Vivian's character and write her book. Once she finished it, she entered it in a competition and won, with her prize being a day pitching her novel to agents and publishers. She got an agent and a book deal. "There were many, many rejections, but after hundreds of job rejections, I think I'd gotten used to being told 'no,' " she said. Her book was published in 2015, the same year she found herself out of a job again. She had remained friends with some of her old cleaning buddies from Trinity, and they told her the school was hiring housekeepers. "I went back," she said. She said she finds cleaning large empty rooms, especially beautiful libraries at the college, to be peaceful. "In my current area, I have no bathrooms, thankfully - just offices and lecture rooms and a library," she said. She and her husband, who is employed by the government, live in Dublin and had their daughter last year. Lally said her janitorial job works for her schedule as a mother and is a great fit for writing. She's finishing up a second novel - and not planning on giving up her morning work. "It works well with my writing life. I've had paid copywriting jobs before, but it was hard to motivate myself to sit down at the computer and write my novel once my paid work was done," she said. Her advice for anyone who wants to write a book? Have a paid job that is not stressful. "It's very hard to write if you're emotionally drained after work, or have a job that you dread," she said. "I know that cleaning is some people's vision of hell, but it works for me. The bills must be paid, and until that six-figure sum comes a-knocking, everyone needs a day job." SAN DIEGO A 2008 Hill Regional Career High School graduate and New Haven native is serving in the U.S. Navy as part of the staff assigned to Commander, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron One Naval reserve unit, supporting one of the countrys most versatile combat ships. Petty Officer 2nd Class Bianca Freeman is a Navy hull maintenance technician serving under Commander, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron One Naval reserve unit, based in San Diego. As a Navy hull maintenance technician, Freeman is responsible for repairing and maintaining machinery and equipment that helps the ship and sailors stay out to sea. I like being able to work with people who are dedicated and hard working, said Freeman. Freeman credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in New Haven. Growing up in New Haven taught me to have a hard work ethic, but I love being able to travel as part of my work, said Freeman. The ship she is assigned to is the reserve unit working alongside their active duty counterparts to man, train and equip officers, in addition to leading Navy-wide change to support the minimally manned rotational crews and mission packages for littoral combat ships. Designed to defeat threats such as mines, quiet diesel submarines and fast surface craft, littoral combat ships are a bold departure from traditional Navy shipbuilding programs, supporting multiple missions, such as surface warfare, mine warfare, or anti-submarine warfare. The LCS sustainment strategy was developed to take into account the unique design and manning of LCS and its associated mission modules. I continue to be impressed with the high caliber of sailor that the LCS community attracts, said Capt. Matthew McGonigle, Commander, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron One. When these sailors join LCS, they already know the reputation of our ships as fast, agile, maneuverable and soon to be the largest class of vessel on the waterfront. They also know the credentials of our sailors as being highly trained, talented, mature and versatile. So, the ships unique capabilities and the high quality of LCS sailors appeals to those who are eager to be a part of a community which affords them qualification opportunities and chances to excel that they might not get anywhere else. As part of that LCS community, Freeman explained that she and the other sailors of the unit are helping to build a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes, including helping to develop new war-fighting capabilities to continue the Navys success on the worlds oceans. I have cousins in the Army, and my uncles were in the Army and Marine Corps. Im proud to be part of my familys heritage of service, said Freeman. Freemans proudest accomplishment was becoming qualified as a surface and air warfare specialist aboard her first ship, USS Peleliu. Having that opportunity allowed me to stand out, and I developed a drive for success that I am proud of, said Freeman. As a member of one of the U.S. Navys most relied upon assets, Freeman and other LCS sailors know they are a part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs. Serving in the Navy reserves is an opportunity to support some of the Navys newest ships and greatest sailors, said Freeman. I love having a sense of purpose and being surrounded by selfless and courageous Americans. David Wyscaver is a mass communication specialist 1st Class with the Navy Office of Community Outreach. Homeland Security inspectors who made an unannounced visit to a private, for-profit immigration jail in California in May found major violations of federal detention standards, including cells with nooses dangling from air vents, detainees losing teeth from lack of dental care and one disabled inmate left alone in a wheelchair for nine days. The infernal conditions are described in a report issued Tuesday by the Department of Homeland Security's office of inspector general, which audited the facility, overseen by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in Adelanto, California. It has a capacity of 1,940 detainees and is run by GEO Group, which owns and operates 71 federal prisons and detention centers with a combined total of 75,500 beds, according to its website. GEO declined to comment and referred inquiries to ICE. ICE officials said they have ordered a full inspection and review of the Adelanto facility that will begin this month. ICE said it would also seek input and assistance from its health teams, though officials challenged findings in the report related to the placement of detainees in segregation cells and a lack of language interpreters. "The safety, rights and health of detainees in ICE's care are of paramount concern and Adelanto, like all ICE detention facilities, is subject to stringent, regular inspections," ICE spokeswoman Lori Haley said in a statement. "ICE takes seriously the [Inspector General's] findings, and has agreed to conduct a full and immediate review of the center to ensure compliance with detention standards and expedite necessary corrective actions." The report details numerous alleged instances of substandard care and neglect by jailers who "prematurely and inappropriately" locked detainees in segregation cells without proper review, the report found, actions that posed "a significant threat" to detainees' rights and their mental and physical health. The auditors found gross violations of health and safety standards, including detainees forced to wait weeks or months to see a doctor, the report says. Basic dental care was nonexistent, it notes. With only two dentists on staff, services at the facility were so poor that inspectors could not find records of detainees receiving cleanings or fillings in the past four years. One dentist told inspectors that there was no time for cleanings or fillings, and that it was up to inmates to take care of their own oral hygiene despite a lack of supplies. "The dentist dismissed the necessity of fillings if patients commit to brushing and flossing," the report said. "Floss is only available through detainee commissary accounts, but the dentist suggested detainees could use string from their socks to floss if they were dedicated to dental hygiene." DHS inspectors reviewed all requests for dental fillings since 2014 and found that although the jail's two dentists identified cavities and placed detainees on a waiting list for fillings, no detainees received them. "One detainee we interviewed reported having multiple teeth fall out while waiting more than 2 years for cavities to be filled," the report said. Under President Donald Trump, tougher immigration enforcement and an increase in ICE arrests have pushed the detainee population to its highest level in years, with an average of 42,105 inmates in custody per day during the government's current fiscal year, up from 38,106 last year, according to the latest government figures. On Monday, The Washington Post reported on critical findings in a separate DHS inspector general report that enumerated mistakes in the Trump administration's "zero tolerance" policy separating migrant children from their parents at the border. At least two other internal reports are expected to be released in the coming weeks that will look at that policy's failures, according to administration officials with knowledge of the reports. Trump's crackdown has strained detention facilities and put renewed attention on substandard conditions at some, including a heightened risk of suicide among inmates held for lengthy periods awaiting court decisions or deportation. In March 2017, a 32-year-old detainee at Adelanto died after he hanged himself, and the facility recorded attempts by three other inmates in the months that followed. Between December 2016 and October 2017, inspectors identified at least seven suicide attempts at the jail, located on the outskirts of Victorville, California. Despite this, DHS inspectors arrived in May to find nooses fashioned from twisted bedsheets hanging from air vents in 15 of 20 cells they visited. "According to the guard escorting us, the nooses are a daily issue and very widespread," the auditors wrote. "When we asked two contract guards who oversaw the housing units why they did not remove the bed sheets, they echoed it was not a high priority." Detainees told inspectors that inmates were braiding and hanging bedsheets for a variety of reasons, such as creating privacy barriers or makeshift clotheslines within the cells. But one detainee quoted in the report said detainees were trying to hang themselves. "I've seen a few attempted suicides using the braided sheets by the vents and then the guards laugh at them and call them 'suicide failures' once they are back from medical," the inmate said. One of the worst alleged violations noted by inspectors involved a detainee in a wheelchair who had asked to be placed in a cell by himself but was instead locked in a disciplinary cell for nine days, the report says. "Based on our file review, in those 9 days, the detainee never left his wheelchair to sleep in a bed or brush his teeth," the report reads. "During our visit, we saw that the bedding and toiletries were still in the bag from his arrival. We also observed medical staff just looking in his cell and stamping his medical visitation sheet rather than evaluating the detainee, as required by ICE standards." NORWALK July 6 was a mostly normal day for Todd Boe. It was the Friday of a long holiday weekend. We were just going to have a casual dinner at my sisters, the Norwalk man said. He had cooked a few things, dropped them off at his sisters, picked up his daughter, who was arriving via Amtrak from Philadelphia, and returned to eat. They were having ribs. I felt like I did almost any other day, Boe said. Then the 53-year-olds heart stopped beating. He collapsed to the ground in the dining room, unconscious and not breathing. Following the orders of the 911 dispatch, his family started administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR. It was the first of several steps that saved Boes life that night. Within two minutes, Norwalk Police Officer Jose Silva was on scene and took over CPR. A few minutes later, Silva was followed by Lt. Scott Rywolt and Firefighter Sean Davis of Norwalk Fire Department Engine 5. They found no pulse and shocked Boe with a defibrillator. Minutes later, Norwalk Paramedic Eric Hebert arrived, shocked Boe twice more and restored his heart rhythm. Boe was taken by ambulance to Norwalk Hospital, where he was placed into a medical coma for two days before waking Sunday afternoon. By Wednesday, he was undergoing surgery, under the care of Norwalk Hospital Cardiologist Dr. Michael Pittaro, to implant a defibrillator in his chest. And on the following Thursday, he was back home, still with only a vague sense of what transpired and how lucky he was to be alive. It all worked out. Everything fell into place, Silva said at Norwalk Fire Department headquarters on Wednesday, where he and the other first responders met with Boe for just the second time since the incident. Prior to the heart attack this summer, Boe had been living for almost eight years with a heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy, which was discovered during a routine physical and affects his hearts ability to pump blood effectively. He was being treated for the condition and, taking precautions, he abstained from alcohol and walked five miles a day. Otherwise, he had been living a normal life, and neither he nor his family saw any indication of trouble. I didnt think that this would ever happen. Im quite certain they (my family) didnt think it would happen. I took care of myself and I think it really caught everybody off guard, Boe said. Boe last memorys of the day are from the car, on the way to his sisters house with his daughter, who pointed out the Boes eyes were red and that he looked tired. He has no recollection of the dinner he ate or the commotion that followed. Silva has been on the police force almost four years. Hes had several similar instances where he had to administer CPR, but this was the first time the patient survived. Success rates for sudden cardiac arrests outside of the hospital are staggeringly low. According to Boe, who has become involved with the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association since the episode, only 1 in 10 people survive. Of the one, generally theres brain damage because of lack of oxygen. So really getting CPR as quick as I did and these guys efforts is why Im here, Boe said. According to Rywolt, the odds of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest outside of a hospital increase if there are witnesses to the arrest who can start treatment immediately. The reaction by Boes family and Silvas speedy arrival were crucial. Age and general health are also important factors. Rywolt said he remembered thinking at the time, Hes a young guy, hes only in his 50s. Hes got a huge chance. Often the most difficult part for first responders in trying to resuscitate a person, Rywolt and Silva agreed, is trying to keep the other people in the room calm as aid is administered. You have people in the room screaming, Do something, do something! But I was just focused on the task at hand, Silva said. Luckily, a second officer, Daniel Vazquez, got to the house, cleared the dining room and kept the family calm. It was a decisive action that allowed Silva to better concentrate on the physically exhausting work of performing CPR for several minutes. Its tiring. And he (Silva) was working him for a while, Rywolt said. Three weeks after the ordeal, once Boe had had the defibrillator implanted into his left pectoral, Boe reached out to Norwalk EMS and set up reunion with the first responders who saved his life. I didnt really know the extent of it all. I reached out to the EMS because my daughter had said how kind Eric (Hebert) was, Boe said, fighting back tears. So I just wanted to say thank you. He contacted me with Eric. But I was still a zombie, so I didnt know who was who. But more recently, hes continued to put the pieces together and thank the men who saved him in various ways. He ate dinner at the firehouse with Rywolt last week and said each of the men will be in attendance at his July 2019 re-birthday party, a celebration that will mark the one-year anniversary of his cardiac arrest. The Wednesday meeting at the firehouse was an opportunity for Boe to share his story with the community and again express his gratitude. Hes now mostly regained his strength and energy, though there are some residual effects of the event. Once a side-sleeper, Boe must now sleep on his back, because several of his ribs, broken while CPR was administered, cause him pain if he rolls over. Now I know whos who. So its just such a better homecoming, Boe said. I look at him, (Silva) as the main guy. He was the first on scene. He probably broke my ribs but Ill take it. Ill take broken ribs for life. justin.papp@scni.com; @justinjpapp1; 203-842-2586 NORWALK As flu season approaches, health officials say dont panic, just prepare. Flu season typically begins in September and ends in May, peaking around February, said Theresa Argondezzi, health educator with the Norwalk Health Department. Its spread from person-to-person and the germ lives better in colder weather. Thats part of the reason why you see it during the cooler months, said Darleen Hoffler, supervisor of clinical services at the Health Department. The best way to prevent the virus is by receiving the flu vaccination. The department recommends that everyone older than 6 months receive a flu shot. Influenza strains very annually and local and federal health officials re-evaluate what strains go into vaccines each year, Argondezzi said. But federal health officials like the World Health Organization say theres no way to accurately predict the seriousness of each flu season. Last year, 80,000 people died from influenza in the U.S., a rate significantly higher than in previous years, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The number flu deaths varies year-to-year because of the length and severity of each flu season, according to the World Health Organization. Norwalk Health Department recommends these actions to avoid the virus: Wash your hands often with soap and water Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze Stay home when you feel sick Get a flu shot The Norwalk Health Department will administer flu shots at clinics from 10 a.m. to noon Oct. 11 and 5 to 7 p.m. Oct. 16. The department has walk-in hours from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday beginning Oct. 18. Most insurance plans cover the cost of the shots and that the organization said it wouldnt turn away uninsured clients or people who are struggling financially. This flu season marks the 100th anniversary of the 1918 flu pandemic that infected about one third of the Earths population, which at the time, was about 500 million people, according to the World Health Organization. Children, pregnant women, adults older than 65 and people with chronic health conditions are at risk for complications. Symptoms that differentiate the flu from the common cold can include fever, body aches, headaches and gastrointestinal symptoms, Hoffler said. Norwalk Public Schools has added flu clinics in all of its schools from Oct.15 to 25. Previously, the school district held clinics at each high school. Some of the myths about flu shots include belief that the vaccine will cause influenza. You might develop some symptoms like soreness or a fever-y feeling or muscle aches but thats just your immune system telling you that its working, Argondezzi said. If you get the vaccine and then you get the flu, you usually have a milder case, she said. Its not the perfect vaccine but youre giving yourself the best shot. The Health Department recommends keeping surfaces clean, not sharing eating utensils, and calling a health care provider at the onset of symptoms. For more information or to inquire about arranging a vaccination clinic at your worksite, call the Norwalk Health Department at 203-854-7776. SOUTHAVEN, Miss. - President Donald Trump mocked the account of a woman who accused Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of assault and told a Mississippi crowd that the #MeToo movement was unfairly hurting men. Trump, in a riff that has been dreaded by White House and Senate aides, attacked the story of Christine Blasey Ford at length - drawing laughs from the crowd. The remarks were his strongest attacks yet of her testimony. "'I don't know. I don't know.' 'Upstairs? Downstairs? Where was it?' 'I don't know. But I had one beer. That's the only thing I remember,'" Trump said of Ford, as he impersonated her on stage. "I don't remember," he said repeatedly, apparently mocking her testimony. Ford has said the incident happened in an upstairs room and that she is "100 percent" certain it was Kavanaugh who assaulted her, although she has acknowledged that her memories of other details of the evening remain unclear. Trump then told the crowd that men were going to be fired from their jobs after being unfairly accused of sexual harassment. Trump himself has been accused of harassment by many women and has been caught on tape bragging about grabbing women. "Think of your husbands. Think of your sons," Trump told the crowd. He said that Kavanaugh's life was "in tatters" and urged the crowd to think about his family. And in an apparent swipe at all of Kavanaugh's accusers, he declared: "These are really evil people." In a tweet after the rally, Michael Bromwich, an attorney for Ford, called Trump's remarks "a vicious, vile and soulless attack" on his client. "Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice," Bromwich said. Trump made the remarks at a freewheeling rally that comes as the FBI investigates allegations that the embattled Supreme Court nominee sexually assaulted female students while in high school and college. The remarks were Trump's most pointed yet on Ford's testimony, in which she told the Senate Judiciary Committee last week that Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her decades ago when they were both teenagers. Kavanaugh has angrily denied the allegations. Trump had previously refrained from attacking Ford personally, although he sent a tweet last month in which he questioned why Ford or her parents had not "immediately" filed charges with local law enforcement after the alleged incident. Trump has grown increasingly frustrated with the Kavanaugh drama, aides say, and sees it as key to the midterms. The president lavished praise on Kavanaugh at the rally, and the crowd responded with similar enthusiasm, breaking out into chants of, "We want Kavanaugh! We want Kavanaugh!" But Trump also seemed to distance himself from his own nominee, even as he told the crowd he needed their support to get him through. "I don't even know him. I met him for the first time a few weeks ago. It's not like I want to protect my friend," Trump said. Speaking for more than an hour, Trump touched on several of his favorite topics including his new trade deal with Canada and Mexico, the crowd size at his events and the state of the economy. He also mocked Democrats as acting "holier than thou" and focused on several potential 2020 contenders by name, including former Vice President Joe Biden, Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. At one point, he also appeared to suggest that one Senate Democrat drinks too much, offering no proof for his attacks but urging the crowd to Google the senator's name. Trump was visiting Mississippi to rally support for Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, R, ahead of the November election. Hyde-Smith, the state's first female senator, was appointed to succeed longtime Sen. Thad Cochran, R, who resigned from the Senate in April amid health concerns. She faces three opponents in the nonpartisan special election for the remaining two years of Cochran's term: Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bartee. Espy, if elected, would become the first black senator to represent Mississippi since shortly after the Civil War. Trump threw his support behind Hyde-Smith in August, declaring in a tweet that she had helped him "put America First!" If no candidate earns more than 50 percent of the vote on Nov. 6, the top two vote-getters will advance to a runoff on Nov. 27. The rally was Trump's second of four this week, part of a final campaign push with a little over one month to go until the midterms. He heads to Minnesota on Thursday and Kansas on Saturday. Earlier Tuesday night, the New York Times published a bombshell report detailing how Trump received hundreds of millions of dollars from his father's real estate empire, undercutting the image Trump has long crafted of himself as a self-made man. Much of the money was funneled by Fred Trump to his children through the use of shell companies and other schemes that allowed him to avoid paying taxes on it, the Times reported. Trump made no mention of the story during the rally. But the rally's start was slightly delayed until just after White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders issued a statement pushing back on the report and suggesting that the newspaper should apologize for its reporting. "Fred Trump has been gone for nearly twenty years and it's sad to witness this misleading attack against the Trump family by the failing New York Times. Many decades ago the IRS reviewed and signed off on these transactions," Sanders said in the statement, which did not cite any specifics of the report. The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance said Tuesday evening that it is reviewing the allegations in the aticle and "vigorously pursuing all appropriate avenues of investigation." - - - Sonmez reported from Washington. --- Video Embed Code Video: During an Oct. 2 rally, President Trump slammed Christine Blasey Ford's allegation of sexual assault against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh.(The Washington Post) Embed code: Video: President Trump defended Supreme Court nominee Brett M. Kavanaugh during a rally on Oct. 2, repeatedly refuting sexual assault allegations against the judge.(The Washington Post) Embed code: HONG KONG - After more than a year of fitful negotiations, President Donald Trump and the leaders of Canada and Mexico this week marked a new free trade agreement meant to pull together the three economies. And, from Washington's view, it has also meant to push away a fourth: China One of the most significant elements of the new United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, analysts say, may be two lines tucked near the end of the accord. Nicknamed the "Trump veto" by some Canadian politicians, Clause 32 Section 10 allows signatories to pull out of the USMCA if one country pursues a separate free trade agreement with a "nonmarket country" - a thinly veiled warning, in other words, against any side deals with China. The fine print in the North American pact offers the latest sign of how the deepening rivalry between the two largest economies is spilling over and threatening to polarize the world. On Sunday, a senior Trump administration official said the new deal, which effectively replaces the North American Free Trade Agreement, would allow the White House to focus its attention on China. The deal would be a "playbook" for future trade deals, the official said, suggesting that Washington could pressure other allies to loosen their trade ties with Beijing. Jorge Guajardo, a former Mexican ambassador to Beijing, said the message carried in the USMCA veto clause was stark. "It sent a very strong signal to the rest of the world that you're either with us versus China, or you're against us," Guajardo said. "Beijing should be very concerned." China's Foreign Ministry has not commented on the USMCA - the country is celebrating a week-long national holiday - but the moves will probably reinforce a deepening sense in China that the United States and its allies are orchestrating a concerted effort to thwart China's rise not just in trade but in diplomacy, technology and military affairs. "For Beijing, this is all just one more piece of Trump's anti-China strategy," said Alan Chong, a professor of international relations at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. Matthew Pottinger, the U.S. official spearheading China policy on the National Security Council, told an audience at the Chinese Embassy last week that the United States and China were undeniably engaged in competition. In a major propaganda push last week, Chinese President Xi Jinping called on his country to be unified and prepared to grow its own food and develop its own technologies in the face of growing isolation. "Unilateralism and trade protectionism are rising, forcing us to adopt a self-reliant approach. This is not a bad thing," Xi was quoted as saying in the People's Daily, the ruling Communist Party's official newspaper. State media carried extensive reports and photos of Xi surveying expansive fields of wheat and early Communist-era heavy machinery factories - scenes purposely redolent of the People's Republic's fledgling years, when it overcame diplomatic isolation and economic setbacks. In Canada, the "Trump veto" clause has been a source of controversy, with opposition politicians questioning whether Prime Minister Justin Trudeau weakened Canada's independence by agreeing to a clause that would limit its negotiating options with a major trading partner like China. Trudeau rejected the suggestion Monday, telling reporters that Canada would "continue to engage in increasing our trade footprint all over the world." Lawrence L. Herman, a Toronto trade lawyer who has represented the Canadian government, said the USMCA clause was extremely unusual. But he said it was more of an American political statement aimed at China than a real effort to undermine Canada's sovereignty. "I've never seen a provision like it," Herman said. "But the angst over it is unwarranted. It's largely political, a reflection of the fact that the large battle the U.S. is engaged in is with China." The meat of the accord centered on changes that would benefit a handful of major U.S. industries - oil companies, dairy farmers and pharmaceutical companies - possibly at the expense of consumers. China has complained bitterly about the United States "holding a knife to our neck" to force trade concessions while negotiations have all but broken down, with no more talks planned in the foreseeable future. A Chinese delegation was expected in Washington last week, but the visit was canceled after Trump announced tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods, infuriating Chinese leaders. Beijing responded by announcing tariffs of 5 percent to 10 percent on an additional $60 billion worth of U.S. imports. Efforts by Chinese delegations to meet with American officials in formal and informal settings have been rebuffed in recent months, people familiar with the matter say, with a top Chinese trade negotiator, Wang Shouwen, only getting an audience with mid-level Department of Agriculture officials last month. Guajardo, the former Mexican ambassador, said there is a growing recognition in Beijing - and Washington - that the Trump administration has engaged in trade disputes with many countries but that there's been a far more profound struggle with China. "Trump was first fighting the whole world, but then we saw a new NAFTA, a new deal with Korea. Even Europe is crawling its way out of the doghouse. And yet China can't seem to negotiate its way out," he said. The United States and China, Guajardo added, "are locked in an entirely different conflict, something that won't be short term." It's hard to overstate how dire the financial situation is in Crosby ISD. The board could vote on whether to declare an official financial emergency, or financial exigency, on Oct. 8. If trustees agree, it would be only the 13th of more than 1,200 Texas school districts to do so since 2012. Superintendent Scott Davis already has ordered each department to slash spending by 60 percent. He warned mid-year layoffs are imminent. The Texas Education Agency has asked the district for a financial solvency plan, and without drastic cost-cutting measures, Davis said "the very existence of Crosby ISD could be called into question." So, how did the district get here, and what happens now? While there is still limited information about how exactly the district's prior administration dug itself into a such a deep fiscal hole, information presented at recent board meetings and interviews with financial experts shed light on the situation: Q: How bad are Crosby ISD's finances now? A: Bad. The previous administration apparently overestimated revenues by nearly $5.3 million when it compiled the 2018-2019 budget, which was approved by trustees in June. Officials will have to cut millions of the budget to correct for that mistake. The district's reserve funds, essentially its emergency savings account, have nearly been depleted, according to current CFO Lesa Jones. There are several buckets of money within that funding mechanism. One of the most important, the unassigned fund balance, was about $1.9 million in the red to start 2017-2018 after a prior period adjustment was made. The unassigned fund balance can be spent on odds and ends, and it was drained, in part, to help the district pay for regular operating expenses over the past few years. HOUSTON SPRAWL: Cleveland ISD struggling Overall, the district has about 2.5 percent of its operating expenses in total reserve funds, much less than 25 percent recommended by the Texas Education Agency. Officials also tapped the district's construction fund to pay operating expenses, including teacher salaries, according to Crosby ISD. In total, the district borrowed $7.64 million from the construction fund, or more than 13 percent of its annual maintenance and operations budget. Jones said the district will repay the construction fund that amount by the end of this calendar year. Then there are the personnel costs. School districts typically spend about 80 percent of their general fund budgets paying teachers, administrators and other support staff. In 2017-2018, Jones said Crosby ISD spent 88 percent of that budget, or $47.9 million, on payroll expenses. Without any changes other than a mid-summer hiring freeze, the district still was slated to spend an estimated 89 percent of its general fund on payroll this school year. That would have left $5.9 million for everything else, Jones said, including utilities, transportation, supplies and other necessities. In 2017-2018, the district spent $12.2 million on those types of non-payroll expenses. If the district kept that same funding, it would face a $6.3 million deficit this year. Jones calculated line item non-payroll expenses and found the district must spend about $6.24 million of the general fund on those. "If you apply that to $5.9 million remaining, we'll still experience a deficit before any purchase made -- before first pencil is bought, supplies, student travel, staff training," Jones said at the Sept. 17 board meeting. Q: How could Crosby ISD legally "borrow" money allocated for construction and spend it on something else? A: It's not illegal to spend construction fund money on other expenses, Jones said, but it is certainly not a best practice. Attorneys recommended that the district repay those funds as soon as possible, and Jones said officials hope to have it repaid before January. Q: What is the district doing now to try to cut costs? A: Superintendent Davis ordered all departments to cut spending by 10 percent in August, and later revised those cuts to a whopping 60 percent in September. Davis has asked the board to declare an official financial emergency, or financial exigency, which will allow the district to lay off teachers before the end of this calendar year. Davis said layoffs will be necessary to keep the district open but has not released any estimates regarding how many people could lose their jobs. Q: How did this happen? A: While detailed answers still are months away, current CFO Lesa Jones has offered three explanations for what may have contributed to Crosby ISD's financial woes: past construction costs, shoddy revenue estimates and personnel costs. As mentioned earlier, about 88 percent of last year's general fund expenditures came from payroll expenses, much higher than the 80 percent state average. Crosby ISD also has among the highest starting salaries of any district in the greater Houston region at $54,835. Previous budgets contained over-estimations of revenues similar to those found in the current budget. For example, a third-party audit of the 2016-2017 budget shows officials over-estimated revenues by about $3 million, and the district spent about $5.4 million more than it budgeted. Those two accounting errors meant the district spent nearly $8 million more than it collected. Revenue estimates also were off by about $1.95 million in 2015-2016, according to an audit of that school year. Ultimately, officials spent nearly $7 million more than it collected in 2015-2016. The 2017-2018 audit will be presented at the Oct. 15 school board meeting. The district has not yet provided specific numbers for the construction-cost issues, but Davis said he learned this month of at least three construction change-orders (essentially work and cost adjustments) that were never shown to or approved by the school board. Davis said at a Sept. 24 meeting that he had a stack of documents several inches thick that could show potential financial issues, which he has not shared publicly but said he would turn over to independent auditors hired by the district that night. More answers on previous construction costs likely will not be available until the auditors present their report. Q: Why did the former superintendent and chief financial officer leave? A: Former Chief Financial Officer Carla Merka told Crosby officials she would leave her post in June to take the top finance job at the much larger Pasadena ISD in southeast greater Houston. In 2016-2017, that district approved a $475.4 million budget, compared to the $57 million budget Crosby ISD trustees approved for 2018-2019. Job advancement was the reason she gave Board President Carla Mills Windfont for leaving. Former Superintendent Keith Moore left under murkier circumstances. He shocked many in the northeast Harris County community by signing a voluntary separation agreement in January. Although the letter did not specify his exact reason for leaving, it said his departure would "allow Moore to pursue other interests in the best interests of his family and himself." Court records show that Moore or his former wife filed for divorce that same month. Neither Moore nor Merka cited the district's finances as reasons for their departures publicly or to the board, according to Windfont. Q: Could there be criminal charges? A: It depends what independent auditors find. Trustees voted 5-0, with one board member absent, to pay officials with Whitley Penn to conduct a third-party audit of the district's prior spending. If the auditors find any evidence of potential criminal wrongdoing, they told trustees they would present the findings to Davis, who would confer with the board about how to proceed. The board also approved a motion essentially guaranteeing they would pursue any potential criminal wrongdoing "to the fullest extent of the law." Celina Cereceres Miller, a CPA with Whitley Penn, said her firm would not go to the district attorney unless directed to do so by the board. The initial audit could also spur other investigations, including more specific evaluations of prior construction projects. Q: What is financial exigency and why could Crosby ISD declare that status? A: Financial exigency is an official declaration of a financial emergency. A school district can file a declaration of financial exigency with the Texas Education Agency, which would grant it some legal exemptions. In the past, local school boards could set their own standards for what it would take to qualify for the designation. The Texas Education Agency changed rules surrounding financial exigency in 2011, creating tougher statewide standards that made it more difficult for districts to qualify. Districts now must meet one of five criteria, including: losing 20 percent or more of their fund balance; dramatic decreases in student enrollment; 20 percent decreases in per-student funding from the general fund; recovering from a natural disaster; encountering an unexpected expense costing at least 15 percent of the general fund; or another circumstance approved by the education commissioner. Since the rule-change, only 12 districts have qualified for the designation. Many have used it to lay off teachers, a move Davis said will be necessary for Crosby ISD to get its budget back in the black. Jones said the district could qualify for financial exigency by noting that it lost more than 20 percent of its fund balance in the past several years. Q: What has happened to other districts that declared financial exigency? A: Circumstances vary in every instance in which a district has sought to declare financial exigency. Two districts near Houston have done so since 2012 -- the now-closed La Marque ISD and Beaumont ISD. La Marque ISD officially was closed in the summer of 2016 after it failed to meet financial accountability goals, according to Houston Chronicle archives. The district overall earned the state's lowest academic ratings in 2014, 2013 and 2011, and state ratings were not issued in 2012. Even though academics approved in 2015, it was not enough to overcome the district's financial and enrollment challenges. La Marque's financial woes first became evident when the district faced a $1.4 million deficit, according to the Galveston County Daily News. Voters there also rejected a tax hike proposed by the district, which made it more difficult for officials to formulate a financial solvency plan to submit to the TEA. Ultimately, the Daily News reported La Marque ISD laid off teachers, fumbled its solvency plans, was taken over by the state and saw a grand jury indict a longtime trustee on theft charges. The TEA from ultimately ordered the district to close in November 2015. The Texas Education Agency also took over the Beaumont ISD, according to the Beaumont Enterprise, announcing it would a board of managers to replace its elected school board and install a new superintendent in 2014. The TEA conducted two investigations before that announcement, the Enterprise reported. One, a financial review, concluded the district's reputation was tainted by multiple incidents of "fraud, waste and abuse." It cited a lack of internal controls over finance and operations even after a 2013 review found those areas needed improvement. A second investigation substantiated complaints about how the district handled special education services, which later was revealed to be a statewide problem in a 2016 Houston Chronicle investigation. Although La Marque and Beaumont ISDs were taken over by the state, and La Marque was ordered closed, that does not necessarily mean either fate awaits Crosby ISD. Q: Will this affect local property taxes? A: Crosby ISD already charges some of the highest tax rates allowable under Texas law: $1.17 per $100 of a home's assessed value for its general fund and an additional $0.48 for its debt service (used for paying off bonds). Legally, the district cannot raise its general fund property taxes any higher. Q: What can people do to help? A: The district will be short on money for expenses, like covering some costs associated with extra-curricular activities. You can donate to the Crosby ISD Education Foundation, which gives grants to teachers and clubs. A former comptroller of Southern Folger Detention Equipment LLC, a local company that makes locks and equipment for jails and prisons, pleaded guilty Wednesday to federal charges of wire fraud and filing a false tax return. Ryan Glenn Martinez, 54, was sentenced last week in state court to six years in prison for embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from Southern Folger and spending some of that money on trips to Las Vegas, gambling and male prostitutes, according to state prosecutors. A federal indictment in May, stemming from an IRS criminal investigation, accused Martinez of crimes stemming from the same conduct. The indictment said he set up shell entities to hold money intended to pay Southern Folger for equipment between January 2012 and May 2014, the period he worked for the company. He faced 10 federal counts of wire fraud, three counts of money laundering and four counts of filing false tax returns, but he took a plea deal Wednesday and pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of filing a false tax return. RELATED: Ex-S.A. executive, sent to state prison, also faces federal charges U.S. District Judge Fred Biery scheduled sentencing for January. Martinez faces up to 20 years in prison on the federal charges. Southern Folger president Don Halloran said in a phone interview Wednesday that a vigilant employee discovered discrepancies in the accounting. Martinez was terminated in May 2014 after an internal investigation that has since revealed $813,863 was taken, Halloran said. Halloran said Martinezs criminal activity, on top of a market slowdown, forced the small company to eliminate more than 10 positions through two rounds of layoffs and to temporarily suspend the companys profit-sharing program. It was really tough, said Halloran, whose company now has 150 employees. It was like a double whammy. Mike McCrum, Martinezs lawyer in the federal case, said he didnt see any evidence in the federal case that Martinez used any of the embezzled money on prostitutes. McCrum claims that Martinez paid some money back to the company, but Halloran said that is not true. Theres a disagreement how much the company lost, but it will be several hundred thousand dollars, McCrum said. Yes he did wrong, and yes he pleaded guilty, but he shouldnt get a more severe sentence than is justified. The total Martinez must pay back is to be hashed out at sentencing. The federal indictment says Martinez set up shell company M.C. Media LLC and aliases that included MCM LLC to use them in various ways in his scheme. The indictment said he stole checks or money orders issued by customers as payment to Southern Folger, stole checks issued by health insurers to Southern Folger and used MCM LLC as a fake vendor to bill Southern Folger and its then-parent company Phelps-Tointon Inc. The indictment said he deceived co-workers with false emails that caused Southern Folger and Phelps-Tointon to wire money to a bank account he owned and controlled, and covered up his fraud with false entries in the companys books. The state prosecution revealed Martinez was hired by Southern Folger despite a 1991 conviction for federal mail fraud. Halloran said a pre-employment background check didnt reveal the conviction or I wouldnt have hired him. Federal court records also alleged that Martinez used a similar fake company scheme to embezzle about $400,000 from local engine component company Chromalloy, where he worked from 2008 to January 2012, before being employed by Folger. But federal fraud charges for that matter were dismissed because the statute of limitations had already expired, records show. Southern Folger, formerly Southern Steel, has been in operation for 121 years. Guillermo Contreras covers federal court and immigration news in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | gcontreras@express-news.net | Twitter: @gmaninfedland The "Halloween Asteroid" a space rock resembling a grinning human skull is back for another flyby of Earth, but it's not scaring anyone this time. Unlike 2015, when it arrived on Halloween, Asteroid 2015 TB145 will be tardy this year it won't cruise by until Nov. 11, according to NASA. And it won't be nearly as close. Three years ago, the eerie asteroid came within 301,986 miles of colliding with Earth. This year, it's giving the planet plenty of clearance. TB145 will miss the planet by 24 million miles, or about a quarter of the distance from Earth to the sun, according to NASA's Jet Propulsion small-body object database. Still, that's as close as it will get for most people alive today. The next time it haunts the neighborhood will be 2082, when it will come within 33 million miles of the planet. MORE: 2 planes report seeing the same UFO over Arizona Fuzzy images of the small (about 2,047 feet 625 meters wide) asteroid generated from radar data picked up by the National Science Foundation's Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico in 2015 revealed a roughly spherical rock showing indentations vaguely resembling hollow eye sockets, a nose hole and a dark area that could be a mouth. But higher-resolution images taken later in 2015 did not show the same macabre features. NAIC-Arecibo/NSF Because of its greater distance from the Earth this time, it's impossible to tell what the rock currently looks like. NASA scientists suspect the asteroid is a dead comet, one that has shed its icy-debris tail after too many trips around the sun. One thing they know for sure is that it poses no danger to Earthlings. But if you really want to worry about close encounters of the asteroid kind, there's always 99942 Apophis. On April 13, 2029, the asteroid named after the Egyptian god of evil will buzz Earth, missing by a mere 23,239 miles, according to the Max-Planck-Institut fur extraterrestrische. In what Mustang Island State Park officials described as an "interesting day," park officials captured and relocated a 12-foot alligator found Monday in a Port Aransas city drainage ditch. A runner was the first one to notice the gator and called authorities about it Monday, according to Port Aransas resident Kate Kay. Mayor Ron Nirenberg joined Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush in supporting a plan to overhaul Alamo Plaza, setting up a potential vote by the City Council on Oct. 18. Under the plan, the plaza would triple its size and feature a new museum and visitors center. The City Council will consider it Oct. 18 and has already endorsed some of the general principles. RELATED: SAPD: Family's dogs shot, 1 killed, while on a run Nirenberg said the plan, while still needing more design work and fine-turning, strikes the right balance. Texans agree that it should be a world-class site that pays proper respect to the fallen, tells the story of the Battle of the Alamo and remains a public space for San Antonians and for all those who come from around the world to pay their respects. This plan accomplishes that goal, he said. The City Council will have a work session about the plan at 2 p.m. Oct. 10. A joint meeting of the Planning Commission and Historic and Design Review Commission also is scheduled that day, at 5:30 p.m. Scott Huddleston is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | shuddleston@express-news.net | Twitter: @shuddlestonSA A San Antonio man accused of stealing a safe containing $60,000 in cash and jewelry from a Helotes home was arrested Tuesday, according to jail records. Victor Gonzalez, 54, is charged with burglary of a habitation in connection to the incident reported on July 2. Houston's firefighters union on Wednesday withdrew and then reinstated its participation in a Saturday debate with Mayor Sylvester Turner on the "pay parity" referendum that goes before voters in November, amid concerns that the event's host, the Harris County Democratic Party, may be giving the mayor too much control over the event. The hour-long forum, which the party will live stream from St. John's United Methodist Church at 2019 Crawford beginning at 10 a.m., will mark the first time the mayor and the union address the contentious issue on the same stage. If approved by voters, the measure would require the city to pay firefighters the same as it pays police of corresponding rank and seniority. One day after it was announced the firefighters union and the mayor would participate, Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association President Marty Lancton announced the union had withdrawn from the forum, saying "party insiders failed to stop the manipulation of the ground rules to advantage the mayor." Several hours later, Lancton reversed his position, saying "a variety of miscommunications" had been overcome. "We thank the HCDP for further clarifying the ground rules of the Prop B debate. Fairness of the debate and the inclusion of the precinct chairs in this process are priorities for us," he said. "Firefighters appreciate the opportunity to debate the Prop B issue." VOTER GUIDE: What you need to know about the candidates running for office Among the union's initial complaints were that Houston Chronicle opinion editor Lisa Falkenberg was to serve as moderator (the editorial board expressed opposition to the parity proposal in July 2017, though Falkenberg noted her tenure began 11 months after that), and that Democratic Party officials did not agree to let Lancton address precinct chairs or let them vote on whether to endorse the proposition. County Democratic Party Chair Lillie Schechter had said she respected the union's intial decision to withdraw despite "extensive conversations" about the format of the discussion, noting that the gathering never was envisioned as ending in a vote; such tallies only occur at quarterly gatherings of all precinct chairs, she said, the last of which was held Sept. 13. "I applaud the HPFFA for its steadfast representation of firefighters and am glad we were able to clarify things sufficiently to regain their participation Saturday," she said. "We look forward to an informative session that will educate voters on this important November issue." Turner, speaking at midday when the firefighters appeared unlikely to participate in the event, said the union has been unable to negotiate with former mayor Annise Parker, him, or, now, with local Democrats. "When it comes to getting out the information, the union, it's not a strong advocate of providing the information," he said. "They do want this to be a popularity contest. Because, if it's a popularity contest everybody supports the firefighters. And I support the firefighters. It's not about that. It's about, what is the city's ability to pay?" The mayor's office declined further comment late Wednesday after the union announced it would participate after all. SPURRED BY PROP B: Mayor Turner institutes hiring freeze Turner argues the city cannot afford the parity measure, which he says would cost $98 million a year and force nearly 1,000 worker layoffs, including firefighters and police. City Controller Chris Brown this week estimated the parity measure would cost less about $85 million a year but called the move "unsustainable" and agreed layoffs likely would result. Neither figure includes the additional cost that would be added to the fire budget with the 7 percent raises the city council agreed to give police officers in a new two-year contract approved Wednesday. The agreement means police will have received raises totaling 37 percent since 2011, while firefighters have received just a 3 percent raise. The fire union says finding the money to cover the parity proposal is a matter of priorities, saying the police raises occurred without city leaders declaring a budget crisis. The firefighters argue Turner's threat of layoffs is a scare tactic to turn voters against the measure. Turner has said the police raises will cost a cumulative $52.7 million over the two-year deal. Approval of the parity measure, listed on the ballot as Proposition B, would add another $41.5 million in raises for firefighters over the same period. Brown's estimates of those additional costs are similar. mike.morris@chron.com twitter.com/mmorris011 At the heart of the academic discipline of communication is the assumption that discourse has meaning; scholars who conduct rhetorical analyses know that what one says and how it is said reveal a great deal about the speakers disposition and demeanor. Case in point: the two Senate Judiciary Committee hearings for Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh. What does his verbal and nonverbal communication tell us? In the first hearing, Kavanaugh stated explicitly and dispassionately that the Supreme Court must not be partisan that in order to be an objective fact-finder, jurists must be independent. He made clear that he always has been committed to fairness and impartiality, and always would. Both the tone and content of Kavanaughs message changed dramatically at the second hearing regarding allegations of sexual misconduct. To be fair, Kavanaugh and his family had every right to be upset; after all, his life and reputation have been negatively impacted. What was surprising, though, is that in a vitriolic, enraged and unprofessional opening statement, as well in emotionally charged responses to Senate questions, Kavanaugh viciously blamed what was transpiring on revenge for his role in President Bill Clintons impeachment, a left-wing conspiracy to derail his nomination, opposition to President Donald Trump and anger about the results of the 2016 presidential election. He also heatedly attacked Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee for their participation in this search and destroy campaign. Moreover, as a recent Vox analysis of the hearing transcript demonstrated, unlike Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, Judge Kavinaugh skirted and failed to answer many questions. He also asked senators including Minnesotas Amy Klobuchar to answer inappropriate questions about drinking. In fact, on Sunday, Klobuchar said she was really stunned by how the Supreme Court nominee acted. All of this was an unprecedented rhetorical move by a Supreme Court nominee. Never before have we seen this kind of acrimonious and spiteful rhetorical posture by a Supreme Court nominee. What is important is not whether we agree with how Kavanaugh has been treated, nor whether claims about him are true or false. Perhaps the charges against him are untrue and perhaps he was treated unfairly. That does not vitiate the fact that the tone and tenor of Kavanaughs words, as well as his facial expressions and gestures, say a great deal about him and his character and temperament. Regardless of his prior judicial record and published legal views, Kavanaughs rhetoric now documents persuasively that, by his own standard of impartiality, he lacks the required judicial temperament to serve as an objective finder of fact on the nations highest court a concern raised before the sexual misconduct allegations and Kavanaughs nomination to the Supreme Court. In view of his rhetoric at the second hearing, it is reasonable to wonder for example whether Democratic attorneys or those representing politically liberal persons and issues who come before the Supreme Court will or can be treated fairly by Kavanaugh. The country is preoccupied with Trumps newly ordered FBI investigation of sexual misconduct allegations whether it is too limited and what it may unearth about Kavanaugh. However, lets not ignore what Kavanaugh said at the second hearing and the manner in which he said it. Aside from the outcome of the FBI investigation, which may or may not present evidence indicating whether he lied and/or committed sexual assault, rhetorical analysis shows that Kavanaugh is disqualified because of lack of the requisite judicial temperament. Cherwitz is the Ernest S. Sharpe Centennial Professor in the Moody College of Communication and founder of the Intellectual Entrepreneurship Consortium at the University of Texas at Austin. Well, that was unnecessarily painful. After spending a year and a half alienating our friends, punishing our farmers and manufacturers with devastating tariffs and countertariffs, and fracturing the hard-won alliance we had built to isolate and pressure China, we finally got a new trade deal and a new trade strategy. Yet somehow, they look an awful lot like the old ones. On Sunday, news broke that Canada agreed to the terms of a renegotiated North American Free Trade Agreement. Not merely renegotiated: rebranded! What was once the easily pronounceable NAFTA will hereafter be the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA. Our marketer in chief clearly loves rebranding things, and USMCA, while it doesnt exactly roll off the tongue, does have the virtue of literally putting America first. As to the substance, well, the best you can say is it could have been a whole lot worse. President Donald Trump didnt, as he threatened, blow up the system. There are some new protectionist measures, such as complicated new requirements for auto rules of origin, which could potentially backfire. That is, they may end up being so costly to adhere to that theyll encourage manufacturers to move more of their operations and jobs outside of North America. Other stuff, such as a sunset provision requiring members to regularly reaffirm their desire to continue the three-party deal, is probably also not an improvement. There are better ways to encourage ongoing modernization of the deal that would involve less policy uncertainty for businesses. But, again, this section is not as bad as many businesses and trade experts feared. Trump also won some modest concessions in tiny industries hes weirdly obsessed with, such as Canadian dairy. He has conveniently played down the concessions he made in exchange: In return for greater American access to the Canadian dairy, poultry and egg markets, we gave Canada greater access to U.S. markets for dairy, peanuts, processed peanut products, sugar and sugar-containing products. But for the most part, despite Trumps assertion that its not NAFTA redone, its a brand-new deal, the president mostly kept NAFTA intact. Whats more, some of the more significant changes relating to issues such as labor standards, environmental protections and e-commerce appear to be cribbed from another trade deal that Trump has demonized: the Trans-Pacific Partnership. If you (like me) supported TPP, this is either reassuring or supremely frustrating. President Barack Obama negotiated TPP a 12-party pact that included Canada and Mexico as part of his own promise to renegotiate NAFTA. TPP was also Obamas strategy for keeping China from writing the rules of the road on trade. Working together, those wounded by Chinese policies hoped to pressure China to reform. One of Trumps first orders of business as president, of course, was to pull out of TPP. He soon thereafter picked unnecessary trade fights with TPP countries wed previously tried to make common cause with. Now Trump seems to have realized his mistake. Despite how he characterizes his historic transaction, the USMCA is mostly just a smooshing together of two trade deals that he derided as the worst trade deals ever made, as Dartmouth Tuck School of Business professor Emily Blanchard points out. In fact, a bunch of NAFTA 2.0 language appears squarely aimed at returning to Obamas alliance strategy for isolating China which, to reiterate, only requires rebuilding because Trump destroyed it. For instance, the NAFTA-replacement deal includes protections against misappropriation of trade secrets, including by state-owned enterprises, one of Chinas major trade sins. Likewise, theres also language designed to disincentivize NAFTA 2.0 signatories from making free-trade deals with non-market countries, widely understood to be targeting China. In other words, Trump has wrought a lot of destruction in service of landing us in roughly the same position we would have been in had we simply stayed in TPP and pursued more amicable negotiations with Mexico and Canada on other outstanding issues. Some of these harms such as the steel and aluminum tariffs, and retaliatory measures that, despite Sundays announcement, remain on the books may yet be reversible. But the damage to our reputation as a reliable trading partner and ally may be irreparable. To Trump, that may be a feature, not a bug. crampell@washpost.com Sheriff Joe Arpaio in Phoenix, Ariz., was renowned for an animus toward undocumented immigrants that spilled over into so many repercussions for native-born Latinos that a federal court held him in criminal contempt when he didnt stop. President Donald Trump, praising the lawman, pardoned him. One of Arpaios more creative innovations was a tent city for those he was charged with sheltering. Guess what the federal government has erected for unaccompanied immigrant minors in Tornillo, near El Paso? Yes, a tent city. For different reasons, we have no reservation observing what we believed for Arpaios tent city the general inhumanity. Children are spirited out of regulated shelters all over the country with little notice and put into tents in the desert that are without state regulation. This cant help but signal diminished chances for reunification with parents, relatives or others who may care for them in more humane conditions. In this new tent city, there is no schooling, just workbooks that they are under no obligation to complete. There are basic federal Health and Human Services regulations, but why do they not include schooling and other state child and welfare protections? Its because this is deemed an emergency shelter. The federal government defends the nighttime transfers, done with little notice, as necessary to prevent panic and escape attempts. And they also defend this because other shelters are at or near capacity. But these are circumstances entirely of the Trump administrations making. Its self-evident why youngsters, being moved to a more remote locale, might panic when what amounts to too-lengthy detentions threaten to become lengthier. The number of unaccompanied minors has not markedly increased in the past two years, but what has changed is the administrations policies, what it calls zero tolerance. This swelled the population at first because children were separated from their asylum-seeking parents at the border. Now, for minors who crossed without parents or relatives the majority of the children currently detained its because they are not being reunited as much as before with those who might care for them. And these potential caregivers are staying away out of fear that authorities will use the data given, including fingerprints, as tools to deport them. The administrations harsh rhetoric on immigration has also naturally sown such fears. There are about 13,000 unaccompanied minors in custody about 1,600 shipped to Tornillo and detention periods have nearly doubled over the past year. The administration says, absent comprehensive immigration reform, its hands are tied. We agree with that need but note that draconian treatment of immigrants until that day happens only exacerbates matters. One requirement in the usual shelters was that the children be provided some modicum of legal representation to pursue their claims, though critics say not enough representation. But this lack of representation will likely worsen in this emergency shelter. Also, if this isnt already in the works, immigrant advocates, state regulators and lawmakers should be given free rein to inspect the facilities to determine if they are safe. The longer these minors are separated from adults who care for them, the more pernicious the emotional and psychological damage. The best solution would be for speedier release for these children, state-regulated shelters, no tent city, and an end to the administrations zero tolerance and its all-too-predictable fallout. There is absolutely no need to mimic Arpaio when it comes to the type of housing for those the federal government is responsible for sheltering. These are children, not inmates. Watching the Democrats harangue Judge Brett Kavanaugh, I remembered a quote from Michelle Obama that both the Democrats and liberal media loved: When they go low we go high. I dont think it is possible to get any lower than the Democratic senators. Especially loathsome were Sens. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii and Cory Booker of New Jersey. Apparently, the Democrats despisal of President Donald Trump is such that they feel compelled to destroy anyone or anything associated with him. For the record, I think sexual assault is horrific. I have two close friends who were victims when they were younger. I also have two daughters, and there is no doubt in my mind that had someone assaulted them, I would now be sitting on death row in Huntsville. That said, nothing has been proven against Judge Kavanaugh. Apparently due process and innocent until proven guilty does not apply to Republicans or conservatives. Democrats posturing for the cameras and their 15 seconds of fame have dragged a mans reputation through the mud. At this point, I dont know if professor Christine Blasey Fords allegations are true, and neither does anyone else. After this shameful hearing I cant imagine how anyone, regardless of qualifications, would want to be on the Supreme Court. To the Democrats, I say watch what you wish for. Once you open Pandoras box it is impossible to get the evils back inside. William Barone Country first I am compelled to say that I dont believe that Judge Brett Kavanaugh and his high school friend targeted Dr. Christine Blasey Ford with an intent to sexually assault her. Nonetheless, she went home a victim of sexually assault. Let me try to frame whats happening. The Senate Judiciary Committees job is to ascertain if the nominee is qualified and of good moral character, and in keeping with its charge and knowing the needs of the office, to make a recommendation to the full Senate. If she had filed a complaint all those years ago, the presidential nominees name would have never appeared on the presidents desk. Now, ponder a reasonable example: Your family has all been kicking in $1 every week to buy several lottery tickets. One of the tickets wins $350 million. You, your brothers, sisters, the spouses and their kids all want to know how to handle the money youve all won together. In a family vote, you are chosen to bring back an answer on how best to invest and care for the newfound riches. You interview individuals to manage your familys new fortune. You narrow a vast list down to a manageable five stellar people to interview for the second time. All have excellent backgrounds and have passed all checks, and you have now made your decision to appoint candidate No. 3 to take to the family for a vote. As youre in the final interview with No. 3, you are surprised to hear that a woman had come forward and claimed this person had stolen money from her checking account when he was in high school. She knew the family, so she didnt file charges all those years ago. Do you consider the claim and, in a preponderance of caution to protect your familys future, pick another stellar candidate or say she should have filed a police report long ago? If you say your choice stands, you have just put a possible financial danger in play for your family. If you bring in another five candidates, then youve chosen the security of your family over a complete stranger. Thats the choice we must make for our country. Rick Reyes, Boerne False memories I am shocked no psychologist has come forward to offer a possible explanation for Christine Blasey Fords story. False memories are well-known in the world of psychology, especially when there has been a traumatic event. When we are in fight or flight mode, our survival defenses are heightened, meaning blood is rushing to the muscles of the limbs to prepare us to run and/or fight. Less blood is available to the brain, meaning our analytical skills and perceptual skills are lessened. Couple trauma with the passage of time, and often our memories are impaired. We do not remember things as they were. I think we all have had the experience of remembering an event differently from our spouse. Ford was 15, in a house with which she was not familiar after an afternoon swimming in the hot sun and drinking. Had I been in her shoes, I know I would have been stressed for fear my parents might find out what I was doing. The fact that not even her best friend agrees with her memory of the events that day makes one question if her memories are reliable. As a psychotherapist, when I hear a childs voice coming from an adult, I wonder what event stunted the emotional growth of that person. Fords little girl voice did not match her mature looks. She admitted seeing a professional for help I am guessing she never truly resolved the trauma she experienced. What a shame to see Brett Kavanaugh bear the brunt of this. As an abuse survivor myself, I have chosen to be a psychotherapist who helps people clear emotional trauma. I have a lot in common with Ford, so my heart goes out to her. But I do not want to see a good, decent man who has led an exemplary life for 30-plus years pay the price for her trauma. Just like O.J. Simpson was acquitted as payback for all the black men who were falsely accused, I hope Kavanaugh does not take the blame for all the men who have sexually assaulted women and gotten away with it. I believe Ford was traumatized and that she is the victim of false memory syndrome. Because she believes this event happened, she easily passed a lie detector. JoAnna Strong Stein, licensed professional counselor, Boerne Brett Kavanaugh is a liar. He has fudged the truth (either provably or almost certainly) on everything ranging from slang in his high school yearbook to documents stolen from Senate Democrats during the George W. Bush years. We can come up with all sorts of theories about why Kavanaugh does this. But his personality is secondary to a bigger issue: Kavanaughs tall tales are part of a larger ecosystem. The Republican Party, as part of its quest for power, has been waging a battle with the truth for decades. Kavanaugh may believe that the allegations of sexual misbehavior as well as other misconduct now leveled against him are a vendetta created by Democrats. But it is Republicans who have created an echo chamber for falsehood for political gain and who have been routinely doing so for almost 40 years. It was Ronald Reagan who once claimed trees cause more pollution than cars, as a way of playing down the environmental damage caused by the latter. It was also claimed that tax cuts in the early 1980s would pay for themselves. Instead, the deficit soared. (Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin made a similar claim last year about President Trumps tax cuts. It was equally inaccurate.) Kavanaughs role in the Republican ecosystem of lies goes back to the Clinton administration. As part of independent counsel Kenneth Starrs investigation into the Whitewater land deal - which turned out to be giant nothingburger - Kavanaugh spent nearly three years attempting to prove a right-wing conspiracy theory that Clinton White House staffer Vincent Foster did not die by suicide. Kavanaugh did this despite the fact he personally believed those theories about Fosters death were bogus. This is cynicism taken to an almost mind-boggling degree. Over time, as treating lies like this seriously became routine, the GOP went from a willingness to tolerate politicians (not to mention talk radio hosts) saying anything, as long as they closed the sale, to seemingly failing to distinguish between the con and the truth. When Barack Obama was elected president, Republicans quickly set about creating an alternative reality in which his election was a fiction - remember ACORN? - and his major initiatives would bring about the apocalypse. The Affordable Care Acts origins were rooted in conservative circles, but Republicans - beginning with Sarah Palin - claimed the bill would set up death panels where anonymous bureaucrats would decide in individual cases who would receive treatment and who would be let to die. There were claims that the housing and financial crisis was mainly caused by government programs and mandates that forced unsuspecting banks to lend money to people who couldnt keep up with their bills. Global warming was increasingly dismissed as a hoax. By the time Mitt Romney ran for president in 2012, he lied so frequently about Obamas record, the New York Times took him to task, claiming, Mr. Romneys campaign rests on a foundation of short, utterly false sound bites. And there was the spread of birtherism: The myth that Obama entered the world in Kenya took on such a life in the GOP that by 2016, only 27 percent of Republicans believed Obama was definitely born in the United States. One of those birthers? Donald Trump. Trump, of course, is in a league of his own when it comes to lies - last month, The Posts Fact Checker team estimated hed made more than 5,000 false or misleading claims since becoming president. Heres a typical example: This past weekend, at a rally in West Virginia, Trump claimed he would always protect Americans with preexisting health conditions. In fact, the Trump Justice Department is refusing to defend that part of the Affordable Care Act in court. Republicans have not considered Trumps trouble with the truth, apparent to anyone even before the campaign, to be disqualifying. His successful campaign depended on a cavalcade of falsehoods, ranging from a crazed obsession with Hillary Clintons emails, to fake news pushed on Facebook and Twitter feeds in a Russian-sponsored misinformation campaign. Nor are Republicans now, as a group, embarrassed by his lying, though they should be. Last year, a poll conducted by Firehouse Strategies found a majority of Republicans surveyed believe Trump exaggerates only with good intent. But thats not how lying works, not over the long run. Lying becomes circular. Repeat a lie often enough, and people will believe it. The ongoing existence of the lie itself changes the debate. Then it leads to even more acceptance of lies and lying. Shortly after Trump was elected, David Muir at ABC asked him if it was a problem to talk about voter fraud without producing any evidence. The presidents response? No, not at all, because many people feel the same way that I do. None of this is to say the Democrats or those on the left are fully honest. But only one party has anointed a world-class liar as its standard-bearer. Only one considers routine lies an acceptable way of doing business. Kavanaughs tour de force of truth shading and anger in front the Senate Judiciary Committee last week was just another entry on this sorry ledger. Olen is a contributor to the PostPartisan blog and the author of "Pound Foolish: Exposing the Dark Side of the Personal Finance Industry." Moved by her own experience with pregnancy discrimination, Republican Sue Hatfield said she will improve the statewide reporting process for victims of sexual harassment and discrimination, if elected attorney general. But Hatfield asserts she is the best candidate for attorney general because she also considers the rights of the accused, in this case those of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Hatfield believes the justice is innocent until proven guilty of the sexual assault allegations raised by Christine Blasey Ford. Whats going on in DC has become a circus, said Hatfield in an interview Saturday. As a prosecutor I 110 percent believe that somebody accused has the presumption of innocence. I feel for Judge Kavanaughs family. I also feel for Dr. Ford. As attorney general, this will not happen in Connecticut where cases are made political. Hatfield, a state prosecutor from Pomfret, is running against Democrat William Tong for Attorney General, the office that represents the state in all civil matters including sexual harassment claims. On temperament alone I think he demonstrated that he is not qualified, Tong said Thursday. Tong highlights his legislative record in this area. As chair of the legislatures Judiciary Committee, he has been a key voice in the passage of two domestic violence laws, one which instructed law enforcement to arrest the dominant aggressor and one which removes guns from abusers. He also helped pass a bill that made online harassment through revenge porn a felony. The personal is political Hatfield, meanwhile, points to her personal experience: a two and a half year fight against alleged gender and pregnancy discrimination while working as a deputy assistant states attorney in Tolland County in 2007. In a federal lawsuit, Hatfield said after she informed her superiors of her pregnancy in April 2007 she was subject a variety of criticisms from how she hung up her coat in her office to her penmanship. She was questioned intrusively about her plans for pregnancy leave, evenings and weekends, Hatfields 2009 complaint states. One day her boss calls me into his office, tells me to close the door and then just proceeds to berate me for the course of an hour, said Hatfield. Hatfield filed a union grievance and complaints to the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. When she obtained a new position at the Statewide Prosecution Bureau, her position was switched from full-time to temporary, a move she viewed as retaliation, her complaint states. The states Division of Criminal Justice, which employed Hatfield, denied any violation of state or federal law or policy. But in January 2010, the Division, represented by the attorney generals office, then lead by Richard Blumenthal, settled with Hatfield for $20,000, court documents show. I never saw policies put in place that would allow this never to happen again, said Hatfield, who is also a registered nurse. Im appalled at how this was handled. Sen. Blumenthal should have been an advocate, but there were no cameras on me. Elizabeth Benton, a Blumenthal spokeswoman, dismissed Hatfields criticism. Senator Blumenthal has been a long-standing, steadfast advocate for the rights of pregnant women and working parents, Benton said. Seeking reform Tong wants the sexual harassment reforms Democrats proposed earlier this year passed, he said. Those include eliminating the statute of limitations on criminal sexual assault charges, increasing sexual harassment training requirements at smaller private sector companies, increasing the resources and enforcement powers of the CHRO and extend the time to file a complaint. Strengthening our sexual harassment policy across state government is incredibly important, said Tong. Hatfield said she would support policy mandating smaller private sector companies train their employees on sexual harassment, if the training was affordable, like a simple online course. An anonymous survey of over 500 lawmakers, lobbyists, staff and others who work at the state Capitol found one in five had experienced sexual harassment, but less than 1 percent had reported their experiences. Most respondents identified their perpetrators of sexual harassment as legislators. Lawmakers responded to the survey by updating their sexual harassment policy, which adds new training requirements and ways victims can report harassment. Tong was troubled, but not surprised, by the surveys results. Im relieved that the survey was taken and we have this information, he said. Government is not immune from it any more than the private sector is. Hatfield called the survey results appalling. What realistically I end up saying having fought the fight is If youre not ready to spend two years pushing back, why come forward? said Hatfield. Thats what I dont want to have happen to anybody else. The new Tropical Smoothie Cafe opened on July 27th at 9222 Potranco Rd, suite 104. just west of Hwy 151, and has quickly become a local favorite for a delicious healthier alternative to fast food. The owners, Dr. Pamela Ozowalu, who has a doctorate degree in nursing, and has worked as a nurse practitioner for 10 years, and her husband Chukwuma Ozowalu, a CPA in San Antonio, while attending a conference in Austin, had their first Tropical Smoothie Cafe experience, and got hooked right away. Within a year, the proud parents of 3 boys, Dr. Ozowalu and her husband Chukwuma, seeking to bring to the community a tasty and healthier choice, decided to bring Tropical Smoothie Cafe to San Antonio. The cafe idea was conceived on a beach in Florida. It started by the blending of fruit and vegetables together to create unique and refreshing smoothies, and customers lined up for the tasty creations. In 1997, the first cafe opened in Tallahassee, Florida. Guests now had a place to sit and relax while their favorite smoothies were made, all with fresh ingredients. Two years later, a range of wholesome food options were added to complement the delicious smoothies. With that, Tropical Smoothie Cafe was born. Hope Supply subscriptions are open for their HS07 box! The theme for the HS07 box is Heart to Home. Hope Supply is a bi-annual ethical fashion subscription box from the people behind Mi Esperanza, an organization bringing education and financial empowerment to women in Honduras. Heres how Mi Esperanza describes their box: Hope Supply is a subscription box full of ethically produced fashion and/or home goods. Produced by the female artisans of Mi Esperanza who work under an ethical production model. Each box is a collaboration from the designers of Mi Esperanza, LIZALIG, Tribe Alive and Arrowroot Clothing. Each box has a curated collection of 4 product designs. All proceeds from the sales of Hope Supply are used to help fund the on going educational programs of Mi Esperanza. To learn more visit our Hope Supply tab. The Subscription Box: Hope Supply The Cost: $45.00 per box + shipping ($6.00 for US or $30.00 for Canada) The Products: Fashion and jewelry items ethically made by Mi Esperanza and their partners Ships to: U.S. and Canada Good to Know: Subscribers boxes shipping October 22. Open ordering shipping November 1 Check out our review of the Hope Supply Winter 2016 Box! Check out the Artisan Subscription Box Directory and make sure to add Hope Supply to your subscription list or wishlist! ZIMBABWEAN socialite Pokello Nare, 32, is challenging divorce proceedings by estranged Ghanaian husband Elikem Kumordzie, it has emerged. Kumordzie, 29, recently filed for divorce saying he had lost love and affection for Pokello, adding that their relationship was irreparably damaged. Pokello filed a notice of intention to oppose the divorce petition last week on September 8, a day after she had been served with the summons. In his application, fashion designer Kumordzie complained that his wife gets really uncomfortable when he plays r0mantic roles in movies. He wants custody of their minor child awarded to Pokello with him exercising reasonable access on agreed holidays and paying $500 as maintenance. The Big Brother Africa (BBA) lovebirds have been on separation over the past year with Pokello having moved back to Zimbabwe while Kumordzie remained in his native Ghana. The two were married under the Marriages Act in Harare on September 28, 2015 after a whirlwind r0mance which started when they both appeared on the 2013 edition of the Big Brother Africa reality television show. Said Kumordzies lawyers; They have not stayed together as husband and wife for the past year since September 2017. such is regarded by Kumordzie to be incompatible with the continuation of a normal marriage relationship. As a result, Kumordzie has lost love and affection to the extent that there are no prospects for reconciliation due to irretrievable differences between the parties. According to the court papers the country did not acquire any immovable property together. Earlier this year, Kumordzie was quoted saying that his marriage to Pokello was a mistake. Last Thursday, he posted a short video on social media of an engagement ring with the caption: Im definitely not making a mistake on the next one; the right one. After rumours circulated of their breakup, Pokello in a series of cryptic messages on social media tried her best to project a picture of calmness despite the raging storm in her paradise. You will hear good things about me; you will hear bad things about me. Think what you want. I aint clearing s*** up, she wrote earlier this year on her social media pages. NewZimbabwe Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News Zesa Holdings chief executive Engineer Joshua Chifamba has been arrested in connection with $35 million underhand deals involving an Indian company, PME. Two other Zesa bosses, Eng Julian Chinembiri and finance director Thokozani Dhliwayo were arrested earlier today in connection with the same case. Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson Chief Superintendent Paul Nyathi has confirmed the development to The Herald. More to to follow Herald Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News Zimbabwes Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube raised tax on electronic financial transactions from 5 cents per transaction to 2 cents per dollar transacted in a bid to raise billions of dollars to shore-up the revenue base. The cash-strapped Zimbabwe government is battling a huge budget deficit and a growing internal and external debt. Ncube, speaking moments after Reserve Bank governor John Mangudya delivered his Monetary Policy Statement on Monday, said there was need for urgent reforms and bold decisions to stimulate growth and sustainable development. Justifying the tax increase, which will hit already struggling Zimbabweans and drive people away from the banking system, Ncube said he was responding to the increased use of mobile money. ZW Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News - APC members turnout in large numbers to vote for either Governor Akinwunmi Ambode or Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the party's primary in Alimosho - The mode of the poll is open direct primary which involves open and physical counting of members on queue behind the posters of their chosen aspirants The voting process of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary was disrupted for a while at ward G north, Abesan in Alimosho, as thugs chased away voters. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the thugs numbering about 15 invaded the Abesan High School, venue of the exercise around 9.45am, flogging voters and preventing them from being accredited. READ ALSO: My decision on Jide Sanwo-Olu remains unchanged - Tinubu insists The motive of the hoodlums as well as their sponsors could not be ascertained as at the time of filing this report. Some policemen at the venue later responded to the situation by arresting some of the hoodlums and restored normalcy. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app NAN however observed that there were large turnout of party members waiting to cast their votes for either Governor Akinwunmi Ambode or Babajide Sanwo-Olu Meanwhile, Going by reports, there are indications that the governorship aspirant in Lagos, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is claiming an early lead at the primary in the Alausa area of Ikeja, the state capital and other polling units across the state. Can Ambode Defeat Tinubu for a second term? - Nigerian Opinion | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng The All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended the governorship primaries in Imo State indefinitely following controversy. Premium Times reports that Yekini Nabena who is the party spokesperson announced the suspension on Tuesday, October 2 although the reason for the new development was not provided. He also said the senatorial primaries in all the 36 states of the country have been postponed until October 3. The governorship ticket is fiercely among Uche Nwosu, an in-law of incumbent Governor Rochas Okorocha, Hope Uzodinma, a serving senator; and current deputy governor, Eze Madumere. The election started on Tuesday, but following controversy, the exercise was suspended. Meanwhile, a governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and lawmaker representing Imo West in the Senate, Hope Uzodinma, said there is an attempt to kidnap him. The Cable reports that Uzodinma made the claim less than 24 hours to the APC governorship primary in Imo state. Legit.ng gathers that the senator said his convoy was blocked on his way to a meeting on Saturday, September 29, by some strange persons in police uniform. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app He said: I am not sure if they are real policemen or not, blocking my convoy, telling me that the governor and the commissioner of police wanted me in Owerri. I asked if they knew who they were talking to and they said yes. I asked if they were arresting or inviting me, they said it was an invitation. I told them if it was an invitation, they should drop the letter and go but they refused. They blocked me on all sides. It wasnt funny. A night before that day, in one of the meetings, the governor boasted that I will not be available during the primaries and cognisance of that statement, I asked if they had come to make real the threat by the governor. What is cooking in Imo state? - on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - APC national chairman, Oshiomhole, has sacked Ahmed Gulak-led committee for the partys governorship primaries in Imo state - Oshiomhole said the committee was sacked after the governorship primaries it conducted produced fake results - He expressed the hope that the process would be completed before the weekend The national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole, on Tuesday, October 2, said the party leadership has sacked the Ahmed Gulak-led committee for the partys governorship primaries in Imo state. The Punch reports that Oshiomhole said this in an interview with State House correspondents after a meeting he had with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Legit.ng gathers that the former Edo state governor said he was at the Presidential Villa to brief Buhari on developments in the party. READ ALSO: UPDATED: APC NWC cancels Lagos governorship primary election He added that the results being paraded as the result of the Imo governorship primaries was fake, hence the need to sack the committee. He expressed the hope that the process would be completed before the weekend. Oshiomhole said: The case of Imo state is not too good news for today, but not surprising, they have to learn to begin to comply with rules. They have two fake results. None of them is genuine and we will disband, we will appoint fresh committee, an Electoral Panel that will conduct transparent direct primaries that reflect the will of members of APC in Imo state, regardless of the interest and the powers that were behind any of the groups. The truth does not require supporters club to stand; it has its legs, it has its heads and we will do just that. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app Legit.ng had previously reported that the APC suspended the governorship primaries in Imo state indefinitely following controversy. Yekini Nabena who is the party's spokesperson announced the suspension on Tuesday, October 2. He also said the senatorial primaries in all the 36 states of the country had been postponed until October 3. The governorship ticket is fiercely among Uche Nwosu, an in-law of incumbent Governor Rochas Okorocha, Hope Uzodinma, a serving senator; and current deputy governor, Eze Madumere. What is cooking in Imo state? - on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng Aisha, wife of President Muhammadu Buhari has paid a condolence visit to the family of late Mohamed Baba-Ari, the Nigerian Air Force pilot, who recently died in a F-7Ni aircraft crash in Abuja. The late squadron leader was one of the three pilots in the Katamkpe Hill accident in Abuja on Friday, September 28. Squadron leader Bello Baba-Ari, who died in the Air Force plane crash in Abuja was buried at the Gudu cemetery in the federal capital. The wife of the president disclosed this on her twitter page. Aisha Buhari during her condolence visit to the family of late Baba Ali. Photo credit: Aisha Buhari, Twitter Source: Twitter READ ALSO: APC releases names of cleared senatorial aspirants (full list) "This evening I paid a condolence visit to the family of late squadron leader Baba Ali, who lost his life in a recent air crash. Many a time we lose our gallant soldiers in the cause of duty. The pain of their loss can never be forgotten," she wrote. Bello Baba-Ari flew the F-7Ni aircraft that crashed in Katampe area in Abuja. Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, NAF director of public relations and information in a statement in Abuja had said: The president's wife said the sacrifice of Nigerian soldiers cannot be forgotten. Photo credit: Aisha Buhari, Twitter Source: Twitter It is with a heavy heart that I regretfully announce that one of the pilots who successfully ejected from one of the F-7Ni aircraft that crashed earlier today has passed on. May his soul rest in peace. Additional details on the incident will be communicated, Daramola said. The two NAF aircraft had crashed in the FCT when they were carrying out their daily rehearsal ahead of their display for Nigerias 58th independence anniversary on October 1 in the Federal Capital Territory. Squadron leader Bello Baba-Ari died in the Air Force plane crash in Abuja. Photo credit: Aisha Buhari, Twitter Source: Twitter Legit.ng had reported that the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadiq Abubakar instituted an air crash investigation to determine the remote and immediate causes behind the ill fated crash of the military jet that claimed the life of one pilot. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app This was disclosed in statement by Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, the director of public relations and information headquarters f the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Friday, September 28. Female aerospace engineer from the Tsaigumi UAV team on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit Nigeria - Members of the APC NWC reportedly met with Governor Ambode - Their meeting reportedly took place before the primary election - The exercise was eventually cancelled by the committee Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos reportedly met with members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress before the primary election that was eventually suspended. The Cable reports that the Clement Ebri-led committee stayed in a hotel until later in the day before coming out to cancel the exercise on Tuesday, October 2. READ ALSO: Breaking: APC NWC panel cancels ongoing primary election in Lagos Members of the committee reportedly told Tunde Balogun who is the chairman of the party in Lagos that they wanted to meet with the governor. A source said: The committee members insisted that they must see Ambode. Balogun took them to Alausa to see him. After the photo session, Ambode invited the committee members for a private meeting. Balogun followed them in, but Ambode asked him to excuse them because he wanted a private chat. Balogun then left. After about 30 minutes, the committee members came out and said the governor had arranged Protea Hotel in Ikeja for them. They rejected the hotel provided by the state chapter of APC. They then went to the hotel while some interesting bags followed them later. They stayed in that hotel with two members of the Ambode campaign team. They were there all through Monday night till 1pm on Tuesday after party members had voted. Ebri said at the press conference: First and foremost, yesterday (Monday) we held a stakeholders meeting, certain submissions were made and on the basis of these submissions, I contacted the national headquarters and they asked us to adjust the procedures in line with the provisions. Having done that, we now had to reach out to the party executives to submit the ist that could be utilised for the purpose of posting officials to supervise the elections. The list only arrived at about an hour ago and so anything that was done without the list that we wanted, because we wanted harmony, so we had to wait for them. There was no way we could have gotten up at 8am, sat down in this place for about eight to nine hours without seeing anybody and then I would go ahead and do something. It is only fair that when you dont see one party, you have to wait and be patient and that is what has brought us to point. Legit.ng earlier reported that Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday, October 2, said that though Lagos state governor, Akinwunmi Ambode has done well in office, he has not been a good party man. It was gathered that for this reason, Tinubu said, the APC has decided to withdraw support for the governor who wished to go for a second term. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app It was also reported that All Progressives Council (APC) members in Badagry on Tuesday, October 2, disagreed on use of party slip by members to vote for the governorship primary. The APC members trooped out as early as 8:30am to participate in the direct primary election adopted by the party in the state. Osun 2018: I have evidence that they added to APCs votes - PDP Chairman on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit - Senators Dino Melaye and Ademola Adeleke have been mocked by the vice president, Yemi Osinbajo - Nigeria's number two man mocked the two senators for providing humour to Nigerians even as politician - According to the vice president, Senator Adeleke insists that the most important attribute to leadership is dancing Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Monday, October 1, made a mockery of the senator representing Kogi West senatorial district, Dino Melaye and the Osun governorship candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party in the just concluded election, Ademola Adeleke. Osinbajo while making a speech at the Independence Gala night which took place at the banquet hall of the Presidential Villa said the duo are humorous. He also said he agrees with the poll conducted by the British Independent newspapers which declared Nigerians as the happiest and most optimistic people in the world. READ ALSO: Breaking: APC chairman declares Sanwo-Olu as winner of Lagos primary election (video) Vanguard reports that the vice president said Senator Adeleke provided humor by dancing while Senator Melaye made people to laugh by claiming to escape assassination by hiding on a tree top for 11 hours. Osinbajo said: A few months ago, an important Nigerian politician who was on his way to a trial in a court said he was abducted. And after he escaped from his abductors, he remained hiding on a tree for 11 hours. "The most interesting part of that story is that many people online in particular, on the Internet, started to tell stories of different birds and how long those birds could remain perched on a tree. All these were the Nigerian contributions to that story." READ ALSO: Lagos APC primaries: What I told Buhari - Oshiomhole Throwing some of his jabs on Adeleke, Nigeria's number two man said, the senator currently representing Osun West senatorial district insists that the most important attribute to leadership is dancing. Yet another very important politician insists, and still insists that the most important attribute for leadership is dancing, and boy could he dance! And for those who think that that is ridiculous at least 200,000 people voted for him in a particular election," Osinbajo said. Speaking on optimisim exhibited by Nigerians, the vice president said, citizens are optimistic because they know they must succeed. He expressed optimism that Nigeria was set to become the envy of the whole world. When I served as Adviser to the Attorney General of the Federation between 1987 and 1992, I had a driver who was always broke. But he was always so optimistic. He had 14 children, while I, his boss, had only one child at the time. And I asked him, 'Why do you just keep having so many children?' Of course he had more than one wife. "He said to me in Yoruba, 'I dont know which of them can become President of Nigeria. So, the more I have, the better my chances.' How optimistic can you be? Only a Nigerian can be that optimistic. The reason why we are so optimistic is because we know that we are the best, we know we are going to excel, it may seem like its taking a while, and there are many problems, but every one of the over 1,000 days that I have been Vice President for, I grow stronger in my complete confidence that we are going to be the envy of the whole world in a few short years. "Well, you might say that that is optimistic, why not, I am a Nigerian," he added. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on Sunday, September 30, prayed for Nigeria and called for Gods blessings for the nation and its citizens. Osinbajo made these supplications at an Interdenominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja as part of activities marking Nigerias 58th Independence celebration. News Nigeria Today: Who is Nigerias Smartest Politician? | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit - The Peoples Democratic party has cleared three senators ahead of the 2019 general election - The senators cleared for the PDP tickets are Ennyinnaya Abaribe, Mao Ohuabunwa and Theodore Orji - The senators will be contesting to return to the 9th Senate in 2019 Three Abia senators on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday, October 2, clinched the tickets of the party for the 2019 general elections in the state. News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that while Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South, went through the crucible of a keenly contested race to grab his ticket, his counterparts from Abia North and Abia Central, Senators Mao Ohuabunwa and Theodore Orji, literally got theirs without stress. READ ALSO: Independence celebration: Osinbajo mocks Adeleke, Melaye at gala night Abaribe, who seeks to return to the upper chamber for the fourth tenure, polled 413 votes to defeat three other contestants. The contestants included the commissioner for education, Prof. Ikechi Mgboji; a former state lawmaker, Chief Emeka Stanley; and Chief Solomon Ogunji, an aide to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu. NAN reports that Orji, popularly called Ochendo, and Ohuabunwa, also known as Follow better, who are seeking a second term, polled 489 and 741 votes, respectively. READ ALSO: Breaking: APC chairman declares Sanwo-Olu as winner of Lagos primary election (video) The two senators were sole aspirants of PDP in their respective senatorial districts. Meanwhile, Legit.ng previous reported that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had cleared Orji Uzor Kalu, a former governor of Abia state, to contest the partys senatorial primary to represent Abia North at the National Assembly, ahead of the 2019 general election. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app Yekini Nabena, acting national publicity secretary of the party confirmed this in a statement on Tuesday evening, October 2. Kalu's clearance by the ruling party followed 11-year-long prosecution of the former governor by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged fraud totalling N7.1 billion. Can Ambode Get a Second Term Without Tinubus Approval? - Nigeria Street Gist | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - Adams Oshiomhole has warned that the results emanating from the APC primary election in Imo state is fake - He said many detractors of the party were distributing fake result on the primaries The national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole, on Tuesday, October 2, described the results being circulated as the outcome of the Imo governorship primaries as fake. He stated this while fielding questions from State House correspondents after a closed door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Tuesday. Oshiomhole, who said he was in the villa to update President Buhari on the developments in the APC, ruled out the possibility of honouring parallel results from states. READ ALSO: Independence: Osinbajo mocks Adeleke, Melaye at gala night On the conduct of the APC primaries in Lagos state on Tuesday, the APC chairman disclosed that the National Working Committee (NWC) was in charge of the primaries and that every situation had been put under control. He said: For me, Im excited that if we can do it in Lagos it can be done anywhere. Everything that is being done is done under the control, supervision and direction of the NWC. Oshiomhole maintained that no matter how highly a member may be, he or she must subject himself/herself to the constitution of the party. It would be recalled that the APC National Working Committee (NWC) panel had on Tuesday announced the cancellation of the Lagos governorship primary election, saying the preparatory process for the election had just been concluded. The chairman of the panel, Chief Clement Ebri, made this known when he spoke at a news conference in Alausa, Ikeja. READ ALSO: Tension in Anambra as APGA disqualifies Ubah, clears Bianca Ojukwu, others for senatorial tickets He said: The preparatory process had just been concluded for the primaries. The primary is to begin anytime soon. There was no election. Election materials are being sorted. The stage is set and election begins anytime from now. We have guidelines and we will stick to the guidelines. Because of the political tension in the state, we decided to be very careful, very methodical. As party men, peace is more important to us than victory. We want a kind of victory that will be celebrated by both parties. We want an election that will be credible and in line with the guidelines, the extant rules and the laws of the country. And that is what we have done. We are ready to go to the field and execute this so that at the end of the day, we will not be accused of partisanship. Lagos is very important to us and it is a flagship of the APC. Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the APC had suspended the governorship primaries in Imo state indefinitely following controversy. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app Yekini Nabena who is the party spokesperson announced the suspension on Tuesday, October 2 although the reason for the new development was not provided. He also said the senatorial primaries in all the 36 states of the country have been postponed until October 3. What is cooking in Imo state? - on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - Illegal firearms and ammunition have been recovered from some hoodlums in Kano state - The weapons were recovered by police officers of the Kano state command - The recovery was made in compliance with the directive from the inspector general of police The Police Command in Kano state says it recovered 47 firearms with 819 ammunition and 1,117 cartridges between January and August 2018. This was contained in a statement signed by the commands public relations officer, SP Magaji Majiya, and issued to newsmen in Kano on Tuesday, October 2. Majiya said the action was in compliance with the directive from the Inspector General of Police, Mr Ibrahim Idris, on mopping up of illegal arms and ammunition from unauthorised persons. READ ALSO: Independence: Osinbajo mocks Adeleke, Melaye at gala night The command had through various raids and arrest of notorious armed criminals recovered a total of 47 arms with 819 ammunition and 1117 cartridges from January to August 2018," he said. Majiya said that the arms and ammunition were all recovered from suspected armed robbers and bandits in various locations in the state. The raids of criminal hideouts and black spots will be sustained with a view of controlling and flushing out of all criminals in the state, Majiya said. Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that some armed police officers had on Sunday, September 30, reportedly taken over the entire complex of Marhaba Cinema at Farm Centre area in Kano metropolis over alleged plan by some members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to hold a meeting. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app The police officers, who arrived at the venue of the event as early as 8am allegedly prevented people from going into the hall. Sources said that the aborted meeting was allegedly convened by some aggrieved PDP members to discuss issues affecting the party ahead of the forthcoming primary elections of the party. Election 2019: President Buhari Proves He is Fit to Run in 2019 | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit It is every girls dream to walk down the aisle with the man she truly loves. She does not care what anyone has to say as far as she is with the man that loves, cherishes, appreciates and cares for her at all times. However, there is no love story without its own ups and downs, what matters is how the lovebirds tackle their issues and overcome it together without drama from a third party. A handsome young man has just summoned courage to go on one kneel as he pops out the question to his pretty woman. According to Peachy Weddings, the lovebirds dated for four years before they decided to take the relationship to another level. Nigerian man goes on his kneels, engages his beautiful lover Photo: Peachy Weddings Source: Facebook READ ALSO: Baby sent his uncles - South African businesswoman is excited as fiance's family comes to 'negotiate' The Facebook post reads: My lover, my sweetheart, my sugar pie, the reason for my laughter, the reason for my sadness, the only girl that controls my mood by how she feels, when you smile I smile and when you are sad I am sad. I have been waiting for this day tirelessly since the day I met you...you have been a source of blessing in my. Life and it can only be Gods doing. It has been an Amazing 4 years of both great times and trying times, it has been a point of learning for me. Through you I have been able to learn how to love myself better and your unconditional love has brought me nothing but Joy. You compliment me and you are Amazing inside out. I promise to be a good husband to you and a good father to our kids. And I promise to treat you with respect and put you FIRST in all I do. And I will love to spend forever making you Happy. They say Diamonds are forever and so will our love be. Slowly but surely greater heights we would reach. I cant wait for you to be my wife and the mother of my children. I love you sooooooooooo Much soon to be Mrs Victoria Junior. Congratulations @justicejunior & @mzdewyt. See post below: PAY ATTENTION: Get your daily relationship tips and advice on Africa Love Aid group Handsome man proposes to his beautiful girlfriend Photo: Peachy Weddings Source: Facebook Legit.ng earlier reported that two serving corps members on Thursday, September 27, got engaged during a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program. They were both serving in Ibadan, Oyo state. Congratulations! McDermott Interview: I Believe in Equity Nigeria Actress Ufuoma McDermott on Feminism Legit.ng TV - on Legit.ng TV. Source: Legit.ng The Nigerian Police Force has been faced with negative criticism from a lot of citizens. This is mostly because of the oppressive actions of some overzealous officers. An average African can be said to show their true colour when they happen to posses power. Such is the case of some Nigerian policemen because they are fortunate enough to be armed, but see it as a reason to oppress people. A Nigerian lady took to social media to share the bad experience she had with some police officers. The story was shared via the Instagram page of @humansofny According to the lady, who is also a law student, she revealed that some police men stopped her, perhaps because she was driving her friends Mercedes, and they tried to extort her. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android and read the best news about Nigeria She also explained in her post that the officers shot at her when she tried to escape from them after they had successfully collected some money from her. The law student wrote: It happened in May. I was driving my friends Mercedes to school because my car had broken down. And suddenly I got pulled over. I turned on the interior lights. I showed the policemen my ID. I called my friend on the phone and asked him to explain the situation. But they said: Not enough, get out of the car. They started calling me a prostitute. I told them Im an artist. Then they saw my laptop in the backseat, and they tried calling me an Internet scammer. They asked me to open my computer and type in the password. I told them it wasnt possible. Then they asked for a huge bribe, and I told them it wasnt possible. Thats when they cocked their guns at me. One of them got in the front seat. He pointed his gun at me and told me to drive to an ATM. I brought him to this exact spot, and he escorted me to the machine. I left the car running. I maxed out one of my cards, and told him that I have go back and get another one. Then I locked the door and started driving away. Thats when he started shooting at me! All of this was captured on surveillance cameras. I sped away. I was taking short cuts and back roads. The whole time I was thinking Im about to get killed. When I got home, I found four dents in the car from where the bullets hit. READ ALSO: Nigeria @ 58: Celebrities send special greetings to mark Nigeria's independence Afterwards I contacted the police, and they said they wouldnt even speak to me unless I deleted the story from social media. I said: Im not doing that. Im a law student. (Lagos, Nigeria) In reaction to the lady's account of events, the police deputy PRO, Aliyu Giwa, revealed that he does not believe that the story is true. According to him, no such case was reported and no Nigerian police officer would behave that way. Legit.ng earlier shared the story of some Nigerian women who are pioneers in their fields. These female pioneers were able to take the lead and break barriers in fields where people thought it was impossible for women or Africans to succeed. They were able to pave way for other women and fellow Nigerians to succeed. They are barrier breakers, and the best thing about their accomplishment, is the fact that at the time they made their breakthrough their wasn't much hope for them to do so. Robbers Return Firearms to Nigerian Police (Crime News in Nigeria) | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit Nigeria - The president has made a new nomination - The chief of staff to the EFCC chairman has been nominated by President Buhari as the secretary for the commission - President Buhari in a letter to the Senate also requested the confirmation of Olanipekun Olukoyede's nomination President Muhammadu Buhari has nominated Olanipekun Olukoyede, the chief of staff to the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, as the secretary of the commission. Punch reports that the president in a letter to the Senate requested that Olukoyede's nomination be confirmed as secretary of the EFCC. The letter dated September 10, 2018, and addressed to Senate president, Bukola Saraki, asked that Olukoyede be confirmed in accordance with Section 2 of the EFCC Act. READ ALSO: Independence: Osinbajo mocks Adeleke, Melaye at gala night The statement read in part: In compliance with the provision of Section 2 (3) of the Economic and Financial Crimes (Establishment) Act 2010, I write to request for the confirmation of Olanipekun Olukoyede. for appointment as the secretary of the EFCC. While looking forward to your usual expeditious consideration of the distinguished Senate, please accept, Mr Senate President, the assurances of my highest consideration." PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the anti-graft agency, denied that its acting chairman, Ibrahim Magu, is nursing a governorship ambition. The agency also said that Magu is considering suing the media that alluded to such ambition. Legit.ng gathered that the anti-graft agency said the report was false, malicious and an affront on Magus professional integrity. The EFCC stage a walk against corruption - on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - United States former president Barack Obama has met with 11 young leaders from around the world - He had a roundtable with them to learn about their work and how the Obama Foundation can impact in the lives of young people in their communities - A Nigerian, who is a special adviser to UK's prime minister Theresa May, was part of the people the ex-president met Former US president Barack Obama has met with 11 young leaders from around Europe, including a Nigerian, to learn more about their work and discuss how the Obama Foundation can support greater engagement of young people in their communities around the world. Legit.ng gathers that Obama met with the young leaders on Saturday, September 29. The Nigerian among them is Nero Ughwujabo, a resident in the United Kingdom. He is a special adviser to prime minister, Theresa May of the United Kingdom. Nero hails from the Urhobo community of Delta state, Nigeria. READ ALSO: Breaking: APC chairman declares Sanwo-Olu as winner of Lagos primary election (video) The roundtable is part of a series of sessions the foundation has conducted over the past year and a half to understand what tools rising leaders need in order to advance and scale their work. Participants were from 11 countries around the continent, including: Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Switzerland, and the UK. A Nigerian, who is a special adviser to UK's prime minister Theresa May, was part of the people the ex-president met. Photo credit: Moses Edewor. Source: Depositphotos Obama Foundation said: As we look to expand Foundation programming around the world, its important to us and to President Obama that we take time to sit down with emerging leaders to better understand their needs as they carry forward the hard work of change in their respective fields. Were also excited to explore the ways we can equip them with the tools and resources they need to ramp up their efforts. Ex-president Barack Obama with the 11 young leaders. Photo credit: Moses Edewor. Source: Depositphotos The Obama Foundations goal is to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world, said Bernadette Meehan, the Foundations Chief International Officer. As we expand our programming, we want to ensure that we are always in dialogue with the young leaders about the opportunities and resources the Foundation can offer and that we understand the context of their work and challenges they face. A Nigerian, who is a special adviser to UK's prime minister Theresa May, was part of the people the ex-president met. Photo credit: Moses Edewor. Source: Depositphotos In his own remark, Nero said: Im really focused on leading our governments response to the Race Disparity Audit right now, and I serve as a special adviser to the UK Prime Minister on Social Justice, Young People and Opportunities. Im always surprised by the enthusiasm of young people for civic engagement and their willingness to contribute in meaningful ways. I believe deeply in the possibility of change and that community action can make a real difference in peoples lives to make the world a better place. As a result of roundtables and town halls Obama and the Foundation conducted in Brazil, Germany, India, Indonesia, New Zealand, and Singapore, the Foundation this year launched several civic engagement programs that support young leaders globally. The Obama Foundation Scholars is a one year residential program that gives rising young leaders around the world who are already making a difference in their communities the opportunity to take their work to the next level through a newly designed curriculum at the University of Chicago and Columbia University that brings together academic, skills-based, and hands-on learning. The inaugural group of 37 Scholars began their studies this month. The Obama Foundation Fellows program supports and elevates outstanding civic innovators from around the world with the goals of strengthening the impact of their life-changing work and inspiring a new wave of civic action. The two-year fellowship offers hands-on training, resources, and leadership development, and Fellows participate in four multi-day gatherings where they collaborate with each other, connect with potential partners and resources, and collectively push their work forward. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app Earlier this year the Leaders: Africa Program brought together in Johannesburg 200 rising leaders from 44 countries across the continent as part of a one-year leadership development and civic engagement program designed to train, support, and connect emerging African leaders to create positive change in their communities. The Foundation anticipates engaging with international leaders in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Europe in the future. This discussion with emerging leaders working in civic engagement in Europe will help shape the Foundations thinking and approach to future Foundation programming. Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a Nigerian student, Christiana Udoh, was awarded the Dudley Newitt Prize for Experimental Excellence at the Imperial College in London, United Kingdom. The award was announced on Monday, February 26, during the Dudley Newitt Lecture held on the university campus. Which country would you leave Nigeria for? on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - Ahmed Gulak, chairman of the APC governorship primary election committee in Imo state, has faulted cancellation of the exercise - Gulak noted that the election was held peacefully and Senator Hope Uzodima won the poll - Adams Oshiomhole, national leader of the party, however, condemned the result of the exercise, describing it as fake Emerging reports have claimed that Ahmed Gulak, chairman of the All Progressives Congress governorship primary election committee in Imo state, has condemned the cancellation of the poll that took place on Tuesday, October 2. Channels Television reports that that Gulak explained that the primary had already been concluded and an appeal was the only route open to those who were aggrieved. Gulak insisted that contrary to the decision of the national leadership, the exercise reflected the position of his committee on the matter. READ ALSO: APC chairman declares Sanwo-Olu as winner of Lagos primary election (video) It was gathered that he said the exercise was held peacefully and that Senator Hope Uzodima won the election and was declared a winner after polling 423,895 votes to defeat eight other aspirants including Okorochas son-in-law, Uche Nwosu. Gulak said his committee conducted a peaceful exercise which produced Senator Uzodimma as the partys candidate for the 2019 governorship election for the state. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app Adams Oshiomhole, national leader of the party, however, faulted the result of the election, describing it as fake. It was learnt that Oshiomhole dissolved the Gulak-led committee which conducted the primary, noting that another committee will be set up immediately for the conduct of fresh primaries in the state. Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that the APC suspended the governorship primaries in Imo state indefinitely following controversy. Yekini Nabena who is the party spokesperson announced the suspension on Tuesday, October 2 although the reason for the new development was not provided. He also said the senatorial primaries in all the 36 states of the country have been postponed until October 3. What is cooking in Imo state? - on Legit.ng TV: Source: Legit Nigeria - The zonal coordinator of Ibadan ASUU has alleged that the federal government was making attempt to make students pay a minimum of N350,000 for tuition fee - Ade Adejumo said it was vital for ASUU to let the public know that there could be labour crisis - According to Adejumo, government has plans to establish an Education Bank, where students will access credit facilities and payback on completion of their studies Dr Ade Adejumo, zonal coordinator of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, (ASUU) Ibadan chapter, has alleged that the federal government is planning to increase tuition fees of students. The increase which will affect students of federal universities will see them pay a minimum of N350,000 for tuition fee. He disclosed this while addressing members of the Correspondents Chapel, Ibadan, saying it was vital for ASUU to let the public know that there could be labour crisis in the federal universities in the country in Nigeria. READ ALSO: Independence: Osinbajo mocks Adeleke, Melaye at gala night He said: The union is again constrained to draw the attention of Nigerian public to an impending labour crisis in the Nigerian universities as a result of the insensitivity of the Nigerian government to issues critical to the survival of the educational system in Nigeria. It is no longer news that the renegotiation, which the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, promised was going to last for only six weeks, has broken down. The reason for this very unfortunate development will appal most Nigerians. First, the leader of the government team, who was supposed to be an arbiter between the parties, assumed an arrogant attitude that sought to foist a predetermined mindset of government on the union. The union was confronted with a situation where the government is bent on imposing tuition fees, beginning from N350,000, on students in the Nigerian public-owned tertiary institutions. On the question as to how the students will raise such money, the answer that government has is that it will establish an Education Bank, where students will access credit facilities and payback on completion of their studies." PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app Legit.ng had reported that members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on Friday, August 17 took to the streets of Osogbo to protest the alleged neglect of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomosho. The protesters, in their hundreds, carried placards with various inscriptions such as Oyo/Osun, Dont Play Politics with the Lives of Our Students, and Do Not Kill the Best state University in Nigeria among others. Who should get higher salary - doctors or teachers? - on Legit.ng TV: Source: Legit.ng - The chairman of INEC, Mahmood Yakubu, explained that the body lacks the capacity to prosecute all electoral offenders in Nigeria - Yakubu said the preponderance of electoral offences makes it practically impossible for the commission to prosecute all those involved in such acts - He, however, noted that the federal government has proposed a bill to establish election tribunal to handle cases of electoral offences Ahead of 2019 general elections, the chairman of Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, has disclosed that the commission lacks the capacity and resources to prosecute all electoral offenders in Nigeria. Vanguard reports that Yakubu made this known in Calabar, Cross River state, at the opening ceremony of a two-day training workshop for staff of the commission on legal and police officers prosecution of election offences in the country. The INEC boss, who was represented by his special adviser, Mohammed Kuna, said the preponderance of electoral offences makes it practically impossible for the commission to prosecute all those involved in such acts. READ ALSO: Osinbajo mocks Adeleke, Melaye at gala night He said: During the 2011 registration exercise, over 870,000 double registrations took place across the country and only 200 of those cases were prosecuted because the commission lacks the capacity and resources to prosecute all such cases. The government has proposed a bill to establish election tribunal, which will handle cases of electoral offences, whether elections are ongoing or not. Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that the chairman of the INEC, Mahmood Yakubu, hinted that the body might be forced to suspend the 2019 general election following threats to violence by some politicians in the country. Yakubu, a professor, stated this in reaction to some disturbing videos of political campaigns in the social media in which some politicians are seen threatening to shed blood. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app Yakubu who reportedly spoke when he received briefing from the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Osun state on the progress and the preparedness of the forthcoming governorship election, noted that recent developments and signs in the countrys political landscape calls for greater vigilance. News Nigeria Today: Who is Nigerias Smartest Politician? | Legit.ng TV: Source: Legit.ng Property located at 121 and 133 Culver St. was rezoned for zero lot line townhomes on first reading at the Red Bank Commission meeting Tuesday night. If it is approved on the second and final reading at the next commission meeting, the two lots will be divided into three and three homes will be built on lots that will be less than 50 feet wide. Owner Greg Jones, who requested the zoning change, lives on Culver Street and also owns two other houses in the area that he has renovated and uses as rental property. Three people who live on the street expressed their opposition to the rezoning at a public hearing about the change. They fear that the three homes, which are planned to be 1,800-2,000 square feet, three-bedroom, two-baths, with a garage, would not be sold, but would be kept by Mr. Jones and used for rentals. More rentals arent what Red Bank needs, said the neighbor who lives directly across the street from that property. The buildings would be modeled after townhomes on Ashmore Avenue, which were described as beautiful, but right on top of each other, with no yards. Another speaker said she did not object to use of the property, but zero lot line houses do not fit in with the neighborhood. If Mr. Jones does the development he would do a good job, said one of the residents, but if the property is rezoned, it could be sold and someone else might develop it that would not do it right, she said. Dana Jones, wife of Greg Jones, said she does not know what is in the future, but the couple now plan to continue to live on the street and their intentions are to take care of their property and not to turn it into a slum. The second vote will take place at the commission meeting Oct. 16. In cleaning up the city, an agreement between Red Bank and Havron Contraction Corp. was approved for the demolition of condemned property at 3307 Lamar Ave. The cost of the demolition is $11,764. Interim City Manager Tim Thornbury said that as the world changes, more people are looking at using solar energy, so the city has decided to create an ordinance that would allow its use and establish regulations for it. This ordinance passed on first reading. Commissioner Ed Lecompte noted that it will be reviewed by the planning commission before the next commission meeting to know if they recommend it or not. The 2019 budget was amended to add a two percent employee cost of living increase that will be retroactive to July 1, 2018. The cost to the city will be $71,101. Red Bank will be spending $500,000 for repaving in 2018-2019. Another large expense is the purchase of a mowing tractor at $98,000. The commissioners voted to pay one fifth of the total costs in cash. Another vote appropriated funding in the amount of $36,995 for the 2019 Distracted Driving Reduction Grant. Police Chief Robert Simpson said for the last year, the city has been participating in this program from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. Beginning Oct. 24, detours will be posted around the intersection of Ashland Terrace and Dayton Boulevard for construction. A box culvert that carries water under the road will be replaced. The road closures are already being publicized and detour maps are available at city hall. Mr. Thornbury expects the intersection to be closed for 30-45 days while the work is taking place. It was also announced that Red Bank will be taking part in Fire Prevention Week from Oct. 7-13. This is a national campaign that encourages people to look around buildings to identify potential fire hazards. Other aims are to listen for the sound of smoke alarms and make sure everyone knows where to meet outside the house. It also encourages people to learn two ways out of every room and to clear the paths of clutter. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is the bastion of hope for Nigerians to achieve economic growth; the only party with national clout and capacity to defeat the All Progressive Congress (APC) and President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2019 presidential election. The odds are in favour of the PDP which has been tipped to win the 2019 presidential election, however its choice of presidential flag bearer is crucial. The Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU), the consulting arm of The Economist magazine (which endorsed President Buhari in 2015) and a global bank HSBC released reports which categorically stated that that Mr Buhari would lose to PDP in 2019 election and a re-election of Mr Buhari means decline for Nigerias economy in the next dispensation respectively. Before these reports, major mainstream media, specifically New York Times, The Guardian UK, DW Germany and The Economist have all lamented the failure of the Buhari administration to deliver on it's campaign promises and bring economic growth to Nigeria. Consequently, the PDP finds itself once again on the threshold of history just like in 1999 when it was instrumental to restoring Nigerias democracy. Despite the antics of the current administration to rock the boat of democracy, it is evident to Nigerians more than ever that for Nigerias democracy to thrive the PDP - its major progenitor in the fourth republic - remains the best and most viable option for a democratic multi-ethnic and multi-religious Nigeria. When Prince Uche Secondus was elected as the PDP chairman, there was skepticism and dissenting voices especially from some regions which felt schemed out in the partys affairs. His election coincided with a period when the PDP was literally speaking, comatose, but to the amazement of all members of the party and millions of Nigerians who still have regard for the PDP. Prince Secondus has through an all inclusive and democratic leadership begun to make the PDP appealing to Nigerians once again, restoring it as a beacon of democracy. An excellent performance so far so good. However, wisdom is necessary in electing the flagbearer of PDP to square up to President Buhari in the 2019 presidential election. While it is important for the party leadership to remain neutral among the various aspirants, the focus should be on the most viable candidate who will ensure the party reclaims Aso Rock in 2019 to offer Nigerians a better deal. Therefore, no other goal for the party supersedes the choice of its presidential flag bearer as it is critical to the sustained resurgence of the party going forward. The task is more daunting given the numerous qualified candidates PDP delegates have to consider in its primary election coming up on October 6th 2018. Party delegates must avoid any blunder which would prove fatal and hand APC victory on a platter of gold and send PDP into oblivion despite being the best party to rescue Nigeria. The sizeable number of aspirants indicates that PDP has leaders who are confident and competent enough to challenge the status quo, men who are courageous enough to take the bull by the horn and defend the Nigerian people. The bigwigs with cult of personality following in their constituencies are political heavyweights known across the length and breadth of Nigeria, though some are more prominent and consequential than others. What PDP needs is to galvanise this tremendous force behind one candidate. Recall that the defection of most of the aspirants from PDP boosted APCs electoral capital prior to the 2015 election. Amongst these aspirants are eloquent and articulate speakers, politically savvy Machiavellian tacticians, unfazed, presidential bureaucrats, technocrats, dogged, youthful, erudite, tenacious, experienced, well lettered Nigerians with many years of public service. What the PDP needs however is one man who can fit this profile comprehensively with ease. A candidate who has a well articulated position on the economy, security, power, education, agriculture, healthcare, restructuring, infrastructure, legislations, continental/international trade and other areas of the polity. Categorically, there is no other candidate that fits this profile other than Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki (CON), the Waziri Ilorin. Dr Saraki has proved to be a thoroughbred leader, with an imposing persona who possesses the astuteness required to pull PDP out of the doldrums. He has proven his mettle as a looming gladiator in Nigerian politics, on the side of the people and has validated his manliness and tremendous value to nation building. He aligned with the PDP in a win-win cross-party coalition in 2015 during the Senate leadership election, gave PDP the lifeline which was one of the major pivots that ensured it was not emasculated by the Buhari administration and APC which were out to ensure the demise of the party. That hand of fellowship which he offered by conceding deputy Senate president to PDP is a gesture which should be reciprocated by delegates. To engineer the resurgence of PDP, the party needs a presidential candidate which will give it victory in two-thirds of Nigerias 36 states and expand its horizon to win more states. The election is more crucial for PDP than APC and approaching the election pragmatically requires choosing a candidate with a victorious profile. The PDP cannot afford to take chances. Dr Saraki has presided over the most successful Senate of the fourth republic, and has outwitted opponents who have thrown every dart and arrows at him to stall the progress of the Nigerian Senate as it carries out its legislative duties. His admirable leadership has enabled him to enjoy the support of senators across party lines. Even in the face of threats of impeachment and calls by the APC for Dr Saraki to step down, a greater number of senators have stood with him through thick and thin. Such resilience is what the PDP needs in its presidential flag bearer. There is no doubt his political career in the Senate, previously as chairman of Nigerian Governors Forum, governor of Kwara State for eight years, positions him as the most appealing to delegates. Dr Sarakis fame has spread like wildfire since he hinted to Bloomberg news and formally declared his intention. He is the most popular politician in the country currently and age is gracefully on his side. He will be 56 in 2019 and given the desire by Nigerians for younger presidential candidates and a paradigm generational shift in leadership, he is the best choice. Public sentiments are in favour of rejuvenated political leadership and governance in Nigeria. Many have opined in different forums that we require youthfulness in running the affairs of Nigeria. A president who will be youthful enough to approach the tasking job of running Nigeria with vigor which is one of the challenges facing President Buhari who has been bogged down by old age and illness spending months on medical tourism abroad. Undoubtedly, Dr Bukola Saraki represents that democratic, charismatic, situational and transformational leader PDP and Nigeria needs. He represents the cosmopolitan, urbane, innovative and fresh leadership which Nigeria is in dire need of. He has been on a tour of states in Nigeria sharing his message of #GrowNigeria, which encapsulates his grand vision for Nigeria. Traversing the length and breath of Nigeria speaking to PDP delegates and soliciting their votes to elect him as the partys flag bearer. From the news and images coming out of his campaign, his acceptability has soared. Thousands of party members throng venues to hear him speak. He has been the most vocal in outlining his vision for the country which is premised on GROWTH and prosperity for all Nigerians. In the South East, he reiterated his resolve to fight for all Nigerians, a promise he has kept even as incumbent Senate President. Nigerians are all witnesses to his determination to reform our oil sector through the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill and electoral amendment bill which makes card readers compulsory in elections. He started that he is 100% in support of restructuring of the federation, a position which is unanimously supported by the entire Southern Nigeria despite being from North Central. In the North Central, he assured delegates that a vote for him is a vote for transformation of agriculture in the region which is the mainstay of the regions economy. He also vowed to end the conflicts which has ravaged the Middle Belt unabated. With his experience in large-scale commercial farming as governor of Kwara state and having learned from the Shonga Farms models which revolutionised agriculture in his home state, he would bring such knowledge and experience to better the fortunes of the region which is the food basket of the nation. He visited IDP centers in the Middle Belt and brough message of hope to displaced citizens. In Plateau state, he decried the state of the nation where many feel alienated and assured the people of state that he will give a sense of belonging to every Nigerian and also reminded the people of North Central that producing the president is their turn, a sentiment which is widely popular in the region. In the South South and South West, he pointed out to the delegates that the National Assembly under his leadership has been at the forefront of protecting Nigerias democracy and spoke out outrightly against the insensitivity of President Buhari who in recent times appointed a new DSS director which has generated aghast from Nigerians who expected diversity and frowned at flagrant respect for federal character in appointments. He reiterated his support for restructuring as imperative for economic prosperity, a position which has been on the front burners in the South. He is still in the South West and his campaign has berthed in Lagos state where he was given a rousing welcome. He was well received in Kaduna, Kastina and in the North West and North East. It is important that the PDP leadership and delegates consider the Saraki brand as the best route to Aso Rock and present him as the partys presidential flag bearer who will eventually bring glory to the party with victory over President Buhari and APC in the 2019 presidential election. [Sponsored] Source: Legit.ng - President Buhari has promised Nigerias readiness to support South Sudan to achieve political and economic stability - The president made this promise while receiving South Sudans special envoy at the presidential villa - He, however, noted that Nigeria also has its numerous challenges President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday, October 2, admitted that it had not been smooth-sailing for Nigeria all the way. The president, however, said Nigeria was prepared to help South Sudan to stabilise politically and economically. According to a statement by his special adviser on media and publicity, Femi Adesina, the president spoke while receiving a special envoy of the South Sudanese President, Ezekiel Gatkuoth, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. President Buhari receiving a special envoy of the South Sudanese President, Ezekiel Gatkuoth, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Credit: Facebook/Femi Adesina Source: Facebook READ ALSO: Independence: Osinbajo mocks Adeleke, Melaye at gala night Buhari noted that the two countries had a lot in common in the area of developmental aspirations. He said: It has not been smooth-sailing for us all the way, too. But since South Sudan wants to share from our experience, we will support where we can and pray hard for your stability. The president advised the leaders of South Sudan to keep making sacrifices till the environment is completely stabilised. He stressed that stability should always be number one priority. You cant manage a country efficiently till you have first stabilised it. Then, the economy must follow. You must provide jobs for the people, particularly the youths. Also, you need to check corruption. Guide your national resources jealously. We will do our best to support, the president said. Gatkuoth, who is also his countrys petroleum minister, said Buhari was widely admired across the continent for his role in fighting corruption. He noted that it was the reason the African Union made him a champion of the anti-corruption crusade in Africa. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app He said South Sudan was putting its house in order but needed assistance from Nigeria in the areas of security transformation, constitutional reforms, and infrastructural development. Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that President Buhari appealed to accountants and auditors in the country to assist in fighting corruption. The president made the appeal on Tuesday, October 2 in Abuja at the 48th Annual Accountants Conference of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports. Buhari was represented by the minister of budget and national planning; Senator Udoma Udo Udoma. The president also urged ICAN members to deliberate on how they could contribute to support government efforts to reduce corruption and restore the economy. Nigeria Election 2019: Kenneth Okonkwo Interview - Buhari will win | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit - A Nigerian pastor has called for the rescue of abducted schoolgirl, Leah Sharibu - Leah was abducted alongside 110 other school girls by Boko Haram in February, 2018 - The pastor warned that Leah's death will be a bad image for the country if allowed to happen The general overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church, Felix Meduoye, has appealed to the federal government to take all the necessary steps in ensuring that Leah Sharibu is rescued and reunited with her community. Recall that Sharibu was among the 110 school girls abducted by the Boko Haram extremists on February 19. She was detained after her peers gained their freedom from extremists upon refusing to denounce her faith, Christianity. The Punch reports that the church leader made the appeal during a session with journalists at the church's annual convention, adding that Leah's death is a bad omen for the image of the country. READ ALSO: Independence: Osinbajo mocks Adeleke, Melaye at gala night He said: We thank God that our dear sister, Leah Sharibu, stood for the faith and that is why she is still in the camp of the terrorists. For me, when I heard of it for the first time, I cried just like the mother would cry. I felt so bad and I think it is a serious problem for this country if that girl is killed because it will be a bad dent for us as a country. I think the government should do all that it can to see that the girl is brought back alive because it will speak volumes if she dies. For us, as a church, we will continue to pray for her safety and I believe that God has a way that no man can stop. I am trusting that Leah Sharibu is still going to come back alive. The pastor also called for unity in the country, adding that Nigerians must learn how say good things about the nation. PAY ATTENTION: Download our mobile app to enjoy the latest news update Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Rebecca Sharibu, the mother of Leah Sharibu, had called on the federal government to do everything in bringing back her daughter. She also denied taking the government to court or demanding N500 million as being reported. Rebecca who spoke during a press conference burst into tears as she recalled that Boko Haram terrorists had reportedly given the government an October deadline to meet their demands or Leah would be killed. Nigerian Air Force Operations Against Boko Haram | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit - Senator Ike Ekweremadu has emerged as PDP's Enugu West senatorial district candidate - The deputy Senate president polled 690 votes to beat his closest rival, Isaac Okah, who had 84 votes - Ekweremadu praised his co-contestants for joining the race, while describing primary as an example of a free, fair and credible election Senator Ike Ekweremadu, the deputy Senate president, has picked the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket for the Enugu West senatorial district in the 2019 general elections, The Punch reports. Legit.ng gathered that in the senatorial primary conducted at the Enugu-West zonal headquarters, Awgu, on Tuesday, October 2, Ekweremadu polled 690 votes to beat his closest rival, Isaac Okah, who had 84 votes. Ogochukwu Onyema, another aspirant, polled 61 votes to come third, while Uche Onyekwelu and Oscar Egwuonwu polled 22 votes and five votes, respectively. READ ALSO: APC guber primary: former Taraba acting governor wins, defeats 9 contestants Ekweremadu in his acceptance speech declared the primary election as the best in the country and an example of a free, fair and credible election. He praised his co-contestants for joining the race, saying: This is the true spirit of democracy and, as a person, I like peaceful contests. I salute and urge them to join hands with me to ensure that the PDP works as a family to win the main election and continue to deliver quality representation to our people. I will continue to be fair and equitable to all." Legit.ng previously reported that Enugu West senatorial zone on Sunday, September 2, organised a solidarity march in support of the deputy Senate president, Ike Ekweremadu, in Enugu for his re-election. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app The senatorial zone said they were in support of Ekweremadus re-election because he has performed creditably in office and positively touched the lives of the people of the five local government areas in Enugu west despite the prevailing economic challenges in the country. They presented interest nomination form purchased for him. The constituents who converged begging him to go back to the Senate come 2019, including the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, said there is no alternative to Ekweremadu at the moment who they said had impacted on their lives. PDP's Magnificent 7 For 2019 Election | - on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit - Mpape area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja reported what looks like volcanic eruption in their area - Officials of the Nigerian government visited the scene and took samples for examination - The authorities of the FCT asked the residents to be calm as they and their properties are protected Reports say residents of Mpape area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja have reported what looks like a volcanic eruption with some inflammable substances emitting smoke from the cliff of the hills in the area. Daily Trust reports that a federal government delegation comprising the minister of solid mineral, Abubakar Bawa Bwari, his FCT counterpart, Muhammad Musa Bello, and the director general of the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency (NGSA), Alex Ndubuisi Nwegbu, visited the affected area on Tuesday, October 2. READ ALSO: APC releases names of cleared senatorial aspirants (full list) The report said the visit occurred after residents sent a distress call over inflammable substances in the area. The authorities, however, asked the residents to remain calm as government investigates the incident. The incident is coming few weeks after an earth tremor that caused panic the area. One of the residents was quoted as saying they first noticed the incident around 5pm on Tuesday, October 2.. Nwegbu urged the residents not to panic as this is not the kind of environment where you see volcanic eruption. The minister of solid minerals also said samples had been taken and they would be analysed so as to determine exactly what happened. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app On his part, the FCT minister said the government would ensure the safety of lives and property of the residents. The authorities further said the area would be cordoned off while the examinations last. Legit.ng earlier reported that the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently ruled out every possibility of an earthquake disaster in Nigeria following complaints of earth movement in the FCT. Nigeria News Today: Nigerian Air Force Buries Pilot Who Died in a Crash | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - The PDP primary in Enugu East senatorial zone has been declared inconclusive - The election was declared inconclusive due to shortage of ballot papers - The returning officer for the election, Abdulrahman Yunusa, declared the election inconclusive Abdulrahman Yunusa, the returning officer for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary in Enugu East senatorial zone, has declared the election inconclusive due to shortage of ballot papers. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the election was inconclusive due to shortage of ballot papers for one of the six council areas that made up the district. Legit.ng gathers that the delegates from Enugu East, North, South, Isiuzo and Nkanu East concluded their voting while voting for delegates from Nkanu West LGA which incidentally is the host council area did not hold. READ ALSO: 4,500 delegates set to elect SDP presidential candidate Yunusa however, said that the polls of the remaining council area would be done on Wednesday morning, October 3, when the ballot papers must have arrived. He said: After the remaining one council polls tomorrow, I shall officially declare the winner of the primary for Enugu East senatorial zone and return the winner as the candidate of the PDP ahead of 2019 general elections." The contestants for the seat are the current senator for the zone, Gil Nnaji, former governor Chimaroke Nnamani, and a lecturer at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Professor Gab Agu. Others are Prince Lawrence Eze, Chief David Nkwo and Chief Joshua Mba. All the contestants for the position were present at the venue except Nnamani who was conspicuously absent. Efforts to get his whereabouts failed as no one could explain why he was not at the venue. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Alhaji Jamilu Gwamna, a governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), rejected the results of the election that produced Senator Bayero Nafada as the partys governorship candidate in Gombe state. Nafada scored 1,104 votes to defeat 12 other aspirants including Gwamna, who scored 147 votes to come second. Gwamna in a release titled The Stolen Mandate: Gombe state PDP Governorship Primary Election," said the result was not a reflection of the delegates choice. Nigeria Election 2019: Kenneth Okonkwo Interview - Buhari will win | on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng News - Femi Fani-Kayode has congratulated his wife as she gets political appointment - The former aviation minister revealed his wife became a member of the Peoples Democratic Party - He shared a photo of his wife on Instagram, welcoming her to the political club Precious Chiwendu, the wife of former aviation minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, has reportedly been given a political appointment. Fani-Kayode took to social media to congratulate his wife on the recent appointment. The former aviation minister revealed that his wife was appointed as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party Convention Sub-Committee on Welfare. Fani-Kayode who is also a Nigerian politician and lawyer, welcomed his wife to the club of politics. READ ALSO: Fani-Kayode shows off all his boys on social media (photos) On his Instagram post, the former aviation minister prayed that God would protect and guide his wife as she takes on the new role. He wrote: "Congratulations to my beautiful wife Precious Chikwendu Fani-Kayode on her appointment as a member of the PDP Convention Sub-Commitee on Welfare. You are a politician now my dear! Welcome to the club. May God guide and protect you. " PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News on Legit.ng News PAY ATTENTION: Get your daily relationship tips and advice on Africa Love Aid group Legit.ng had also previously reported that Fani-Kayode and Precious recently welcomed a set of triplet boys. Femi Fani Kayode reveals details of his talk with President Buhari - on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - A Kano APC senatorial aspirant, Bashir Mohammed, has withdrawn from the race - The aspirant said he dropped his ambition as a mark of respect for Governor Ganduje - He added that the governor had pleaded with him to step down for Ibrahim Shekarau who recently defected to the APC A former senator and aspirant of the Kano Central senatorial race on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bashir Mohammed, has stated that he withdrew from the race as a mark of respect to the governor of Kano state, Abdullahi Ganduje. Mohammed, who is popularly known as Lado, was formerly a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but defected to the APC in a bid to replace former governor Rabiu Kwankwaso in the Senate. According to Premium Times, he was lured to join the APC when all hope in the reconciliation of the governor and his erstwhile political ally, Kwankwaso, was dashed. His ambition, however, met a stumbling block when a former governor of the state, Ibrahim Shekarau, recently defected to the APC and was asked to contest for the same seat by the governor. READ ALSO: Independence: Osinbajo mocks Adeleke, Melaye at gala night In a statement on Saturday, September 29, Lado also said he is handing over his political structure for the success of the APC in the state. He said: Our good people of Kano Central, this is to inform you that based on intervention from our father and leader, His Excellency Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR (Khadimul Islam), I have today, Saturday, 29th Sept. 2018 withdrawn from the race for the Kano Central senatorial zone as a mark of respect to his Excellency. I also wish to use this opportunity to announce the donation of my campaign structure, including personnel, 25 vehicles and other facilities for the re-election of President Muhammadu Buhari, Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and other elective offices of our great party, the APC ahead of 2019 general elections. I, therefore, appeal to my teeming supporters who felt aggrieved by my decision to withdraw to take the new development in good faith, strongly believing that it is Allah that gives power to whom He pleases. As Muslims, we are fully aware of the fact that respect for elders is akin to respect for Almighty Allah. With this in mind, I owe gratitude and appreciation to our governor who has always regarded me as a son and therefore advised that I should put aside my senatorial aspiration in order to present an undivided front in preparation for the ever-sensitive upcoming elections in Kano state. PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News Anywhere 24/7. Spend less on the Internet! I also wish to extend my appreciation to the people of my constituency, Kano Central senatorial zone and the state at large for the love and support they have given me; their support is well appreciated." Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Governor Ganduje emerged as the governorship candidate of the APC with 2,740,847 votes. Ganduje, unopposed in the exercise, was declared as the candidate of the party by the chief returning officer of the just concluded primary poll, Pius Odudu. Expressing his satisfaction with the election result, the governor commended the peaceful conduct of the election and party members for their support for his re-election ambition. How workaholic Governor Ganduje is transforming Kano state - On Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng The headlines of mainstream Nigerian newspapers for October 3, 2018, are on the controversy that surrounded the Lagos state All Progressives Congress (APC) primary held on Tuesday, October 2 amongst other top stories. Vanguard reports that controversy, yesterday, trailed the rescheduled governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos state as the panel of the National Working Committee, of the party, distanced itself from the earlier exercise conducted and fix today for a fresh primary. The NWC APC nullified the governorship primary, saying due process was not followed. The panels decision was, however, faulted by the state chapter of the party which insisted the exercise was credible. Newspaper review Source: Original This Day President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja, said Nigeria was prepared to help South Sudan stabilise politically and economically. He made the promise while receiving special envoy of the South Sudanese president, Ezekiel Gatkuoth, in the State House. The presidents spokesman, Femi Adesina, in a statement, said the president noted that Nigeria and Sudan had a lot in common in the area of developmental aspirations. READ ALSO: APC chairman declares Sanwo-Olu as winner of Lagos primary election (video) It has not been smooth sailing for us all the way, too. But since South Sudan wants to share from our experience, we will support where we can, and pray hard for your stability," he quoted Buhari as saying. The statement also said the president advised the leaders of South Sudan to keep making sacrifices till the environment is completely stabilised, adding that stability should always be number one priority. Newspaper review Source: Original The Nation reports that the federal government has appealed to accountants and auditors to assist it in fighting corruption. President Muhammad Buhari made the call while addressing the 48th Annual Accountants Conference of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in Abuja. Buhari, who was represented by the minister of national planning and budget, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, noted that with regards to fighting corruption, you have a special contribution to make as accountants in this regard. Your members serving as accountants and auditors can bring to bear your special skills in ensuring that books and records are properly kept. Working closely with the statutory agencies responsible for fighting corruption, ICAN will no doubt assist government in its effort at fighting this national malaise, the president said. Buhari urged ICAN members to deliberate on how they could contribute to support governments efforts at reducing corruption, restoring the economy and ensuring security. Newspaper review: Nigeria prepared to help Sudan stabilise - Buhari Source: Original The Guardian reports that as the organised labour pushes forward its demand for a new national minimum wage, opinions are varied regarding the timeliness of the demand, which resulted in a warning strike following a breakdown in negotiations among committee members. According to some of the views, embarking on a strike in a pre-election period is not a good sign that demand would be immediately met, as majority of the governors, who would implement the agreements, would be out of office by 2019 at the expiration of their two terms, while those hoping for a second term are still struggling to get their parties nomination. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app The organised labour had called for a nationwide warning strike over refusal of the federal government to come up with a new national minimum wage for Nigerian workers. Newspaper review: Nigeria prepared to help Sudan stabilise - Buhari Source: Original Lagos Governor: Is Sanwo-Olu a better candidate than Ambode?| Legit.ng TV Source: Legit - The federal government has slashed business name registration fees from N10,000 to N5,000 - VP Osinbajo announced this at the 19th edition of MSMEs Clinics in Enugu - The 50% slash is effective from October 1 to December 31 Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has announced approval of a 90-day special window to register businesses at a reduced rate of N5,000 only, from N10,000. Laolu Akande, senior special assistant to the president on media and publicity, office of the vice president in Abuja, said that Osinbajo made the announcement in Enugu. Osinbajo, who was quoted as making the announcement at the launch of the 19th edition of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Clinics in Enugu, said the special window of 90 days spanned from October 1 to December 31, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports. READ ALSO: Ambode's fate uncertain as APC NWC upholds Sanwo-Olus victory He said that the gesture was to further ease the process of registering MSMEs in the country. It was observed during some of the earlier editions of the MSMEs Clinics that a lot of MSMEs were finding it difficult to register their businesses as a result of cost. The practice since we began the MSMEs clinics is that most agencies offer price reductions, especially for registration, and all other pre-investment approvals, during the clinics. So, I am pleased to announce that the federal government, through the Corporate Affairs Commission, has approved a special window of 90 days from October 1 to December 31 to register businesses at a considerably reduced rate of N5,000 only, down from as much as N10,000 previously." He said the action was taken to afford more MSMEs an opportunity to formalise their businesses. Speaking on other initiatives by the federal government designed to consolidate the gains of the MSMEs Clinics, Osinbajo said that the federal government would be establishing shared facilities for MSMEs. He said that the facilities would be based on a partnership between the federal government, interested states, Bank of Industry, NEXIM Bank, FIRS, NAFDAC, SON and interested private sector partners, as part of efforts at deepening the impact of the clinics. READ ALSO: Independence Day: Osinbajo mocks Adeleke, Melaye at gala night The purpose of these shared facilities is to have a fully-equipped place with machinery and equipment required for various trades and businesses. MSMEs can then do their businesses at those locations at a reasonable cost. This way, MSMEs are spared the financial burden of having to buy their own equipment in order to be able to do business. Where possible, these shared facilities would have been pre-certified by relevant agencies, removing the need for MSMEs to pursue these certifications by themselves. He also announced the federal governments willingness to partner with state governments in establishing more one-stop shops, to further enhance business registration and facilitate seamless interaction between owners of small businesses and the relevant regulatory agencies. The vice president said that the federal government was also aware that some states had gone on to set up One-Stop Shops after the clinics. According to him, the one-stop shops will bring all the relevant agencies together in one place so as to enable the MSMEs access their services on an ongoing basis. The federal government is also willing to partner with your state government to immediately set up one such place for the good use of MSMEs in Enugu state, he said. Osinbajo also said there were follow-up plans to ensure that all the finalists from the maiden edition of the MSMEs Awards were supported with publicity and media exposure, to enable them to reach even larger markets at home and abroad. He said that the ongoing disbursement of collateral and interest-free loans given to petty traders under the GEEP TraderMoni programme would soon be launched in Enugu. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app Earlier in his remarks, Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu state said the state government had already keyed into some of the social investment programmes initiated by the federal government. Ugwuanyi promised that the state would continue to cooperate with all federal authorities to improve the well-being of the people. The governor expressed appreciation to the federal government for inaugurating the national MSMEs clinics in the state as it would greatly improve the lives of many youths, especially those seeking employment opportunities. Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported Osinbajo commended Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu state for his administrations unceasing cooperation with the federal government in the advancement of the set objectives of the MSME in the state and beyond. Prof Osinbajo, who said he was extremely delighted with the kindness and warm reception the state government always accords him whenever he visits Enugu state, also applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for the very great steps his administration has taken in the growth and development of the MSME programme. Is Osinbajo a better president than Buhari? - On Legit.ng TV Source: Legit - David Paradang, a former comptroller-general of Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), assures PDP delegates of quality representation if elected into the Senate - Suleiman Adokwe, a serving senator representing Nasarawa south senatorial district wins the PDP's Nasarawa south senatorial zone primary election David Paradang, former comptroller-general of Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), has picked the PDP ticket to contest for the Plateau central senatorial seat. According to the results of the primary election held in Pankshin, Paradang scored 422 votes from a total of 659 to beat five others. Mohammed Inusa-Ali, chairman of the electoral committee, who announced the result, thanked the delegates for their orderly conduct and also lauded the aspirants for their maturity. The election was a `huge success, thanks to the delegates, aspirants and party officials, he said. In his acceptance speech, Paradang thanked the delegates for the ticket and assured them of quality representation if elected. READ ALSO: APC NWC endorses Sanwo-Olus victory In Plateau north, Istifanus Gyang scored 442 votes to picked the ticket, flooring Chris Giwa, former President of a faction of the NFF, who got 291 votes. The third contender, Francis Bot, withdrew from the race few hours before voting started In another news, Suleiman Adokwe, a serving senator representing Nasarawa south senatorial district has won the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Nasarawa south senatorial zone primary election. Adokwe, who seeks to return to the Senate for the fourth term, beat his closest opponent, Mohammed Ogoshi-Onawo, in a keenly contested primaries held in lafia. Ogoshi-Onawo is also a federal lawmaker representing Awe/Doma/Keana federal constituency at the House of Representatives. Anugbum Onuorah, the chairman of the electoral committee announced that Adokwe polled 287 votes to beat Ogoshi-Onawo who secured 255 votes from a total of 542 votes cast. Onuorah, who said the election was peaceful, transparent and the delegates conducted themselves peacefully, also explained that 547 delegates were expected to participate in the election, but only 542 were accredited and subsequently voted with no invalid votes recorded. I commend the delegates for their peaceful conduct in this senatorial primary election. It was peaceful. We have concluded the election, counted the votes and on behalf of the chairman of PDP, I want to announce the result as follows. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app Mohammed Ogoshi-Onawo scored a total votes of 255 and Suleiman Adokwe scored a total of 287 votes. Having fulfilled all the requirements as enshrined in the constitution of the party, I, the chairman and returning officer for this primary election hereby declare that Sen. Adokwe, having secured the highest votes is hereby returned the winner and candidate of PDP for this senatorial district, he said. Adokwe expressed joy over the victory and thanked the electoral committee for ensuring a transparent process and the delegates for giving him another opportunity to serve them at the National Assembly. He appreciated his opponent for his sportsmanship, mature conduct and for accepting the result, which, according to him was keenly contested. He added that both contestants and other PDP stakeholders in Nasarawa South had agreed to work in unison to win the senatorial election in the 2019 general elections for the party, irrespective of who emerged. I will like to thank him immensely for assuring the party that we will continue to work for the party; It is a family affair. The contest was done peacefully and transparently. Both of us assured our supporters that whoever wins, we will work together, he said. The primary election which started on Tuesday night, October 2, was concluded on Wednesday morning, October 3. Meanwhile, former Taraba acting governor, Sani Danladi, has won the All Progressives Congress (APC) party primaries, defeating nine other aspirants who contested with him. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the chairman of the APC governorship primary election for Taraba, Senator Emmanuel Ocheja, while declaring the results at the Fast Track Hotel in Jalingo in the early hours of Wednesday, October 3, said Danladi scored 60,629 votes out of the total of 10. Nigeria Election 2019: Kenneth Okonkwo Interview - Buhari will win | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit Nigeria - A group of Nigerians in diaspora has promised to work for a better Nigeria - The group said ethnic partisanship and sycophancy are major banes affecting the country - It promised to partner with Christians to build an utopian Nigeria A group of Nigerian Christians under the aegis of Coalition for Godly Change (CGC) has promised to do everything in its disposal to salvage the country from its present woes. Vanguard reports that the group made the promise on Monday, October 1, while briefing the press after a meeting with Christian groups across the country in Abuja. Legit.ng gathers that the convener of the meeting, Professor Adeniyi Ojitiku, said Nigeria has witnessed series of setbacks and cannot afford to repeat same mistakes again. READ ALSO: APC NWC endorses Sanwo-Olus victory Ojikutu also highlighted Nigeria's problem, adding that political sycophancy and ethnic partisans have been hindering the nation from moving forward. He, however, said that Christians in diaspora are ready to partner with their counterparts in Nigeria to facilitate a good and better Nigeria. He said: We in the diaspora are now fully resolved that we can no longer stand by on the sideline and watch our dear country continue to wobble, falter and degenerate into a banana republic of anarchy and rudderless mis-leadership. To say Nigeria of today is characterized by the highest level ever of insecurity to life, land and property, is an understatement of the obvious. "There is unprecedented, rampant and gross ethnic partisanship and sycophancy in the distribution of political power, instrument of national security, as well as in the observance of the rule of law. All these must stop! PAY ATTENTION: Download our app to enjoy the latest news update Meanwhile, Legit.ng reported that the coordinator, Peace Revival and Reconciliation Foundation (PRRF), Pastor Yohanna Buru, said he was working with 50 imams and pastors to pray for lasting peace and stability in Nigeria. The cleric said the interfaith prayer was to strengthen peaceful co-existence between Muslims and Christians, and promote inter religious tolerance and understanding. Street Gist: What Are You Proud of As a Nigerian? | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit - Jamil Isyaku Gwamna, a governorship aspirant on the platform of the PDP, has announced his defection to the APC - He said his decision was never about him as a person but it was about the interest of the people who associated with him during his aspiration - Gwamna who lost the PDPs ticket to Senator Usman Bayero Nafada said he left the party because of injustice meted on him Jamil Isyaku Gwamna, a governorship aspirant on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Gombe state, on Tuesday, October 2, officially defected to the All Progressive Congress (APC). Gwamna earlier rejected results of the PDP primary election that produced Senator Bayero Nafada as the governorship candidate in the state said he left the party because of injustice meted on him. Leadership reports that he said leaving the PDP was not an easy decision to make considering being in the party since 2007 and the huge investment and sacrifice he has made in building the party. READ ALSO: APC NWC endorses Sanwo-Olus victory Gwamna said the decision was never about him as a person but it was about the interest of the people who associate with him during his aspiration and more importantly the collective interest and future of Gombe people. According to him, For me politics has always been an opportunity to serve and make contribution towards the development of my people and the nation. I am not seeking for the seat of the governor for personal interest but for the people, having considered the injustice in the PDP we have to seek for an alternative to resist and stop the evil agenda of one man to put our people in perpetual enslavement. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app Having consulted with the supporters we have decided to leave the PDP, we are joining forces with eminent Gombe sons and daughters to work tirelessly to ensure the emergence of President Muhammadu Buhari and Inuwa Yahaya in the APC Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that a governorship aspirant on the platform of the PDP, Jamilu Gwamna, rejected the results of the election that produced Senator Bayero Nafada as the partys governorship candidate in Gombe state. Nafada scored 1,104 votes to defeat 12 other aspirants including Gwamna, who scored 147 votes to come second. Gwamna in a release titled: The Stolen Mandate: Gombe state PDP Governorship Primary Election," said the result was not a reflection of the delegates choice. He said: The result is not a reflection of delegates choice. The result of this election is a disruption of the democratic tentacles upon which our party stands. Nigeria Election 2019: Kenneth Okonkwo Interview - Buhari will win | Legit.ng TV: Source: Legit.ng - The story quoted President Edgar Lungu reiterating the country's commitment to work with China - Government spokesperson said the move was aimed at tapping into the Chinese market through advertisements - The move angered Zambians who decried Chinese dominance and displacement of locals from jobs - There have been allegations Zambia had borrowed so much from China and risked losing key State property used as collateral for the loans China's dominance in Zambia has been an issue of concern, with the country's Opposition figure Stephen Katuka decrying the Asian state's citizens are displacing locals from jobs through huge monetary offers. True to this statement, on Tuesday, October 2, the county's state-owned newspaper published the lead story in Mandarin, a move which angered the citizens. Mandarin is the common language spoke in China. A copy of the publication seen by TUKO.co.ke ignited outrage from Zambians and citizens from other African states who termed the recent Chinese invasion in the continent as fresh colonisation. READ ALSO: Governor Ambode to hold another press conference Zambia's State-owned newspaper The Times of Zambia published its lead story in Chinese language. The story quoted President Edgar Lungu saying their ties and China would be tightened. Photo: UGC Source: UGC In a perfect coincidence, the lead story quoted President Edgar Lungu saying the country's ties with China were not about to end. This was despite cries by the Opposition that the country had obtained huge loans which could make the China take over State-owned properties used as collateral if Zambia is unable to repay the debts. "We will not look East or West but we'll go with those who want to go with us," Lungu was quoted in the article published in Mandarin. Zambia's Chief Government Spokesperson Dora Siliya defended the decision to publish some of the articles in the national paper in Chinese and English. "It is a move aimed at tapping into the Chinese market," she said even as enraged citizens argued the State should have instead used Gujarati if they needed numbers because the country had more Indians. PAY ATTENTION: Download our mobile app to enjoy the latest news update Nigeria News Today: Will Buhari Get Votes Of Nigerian Youth? | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos state has finally accepted his loss of the gubernatorial primary election of the All Progressives Congress (APC), conducted on Tuesday, October 2. The governor congratulating Babajide Sanwo-Olu, winner of the exercise. Sanwo-Olu polled 970,851 votes ahead of the governor who secured 72,901 votes. Ambode, who appealed to residents of Lagos to give Sanwo-Olu the needed support in the 2019 election said the APC is a great party. READ ALSO: Lagos 2019: Sanwo-Olu thanks Ambode for putting up a good fight The statement by the governor made available to Legit.ng read: "Fellow Lagosians, the last few days have witnessed intense political activities that have gripped the attention of the nation and created palpable tension in the polity. I strongly believe that the time has now come for the State to move forward in order that the gains of the last three and half years are not lost. "Dear Lagosians, APC is a great party and the interests of our beloved state must always supercede that of any person or group. It is in this regard that I wholeheartedly congratulate the winner of the Lagos state APC primaries, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and urge all Lagosians to immediately support our partys gubernatorial candidate in the 2019 elections and work for the success of our dear party. "As governor, I will do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition in the remaining period of this administration and ultimately to the new governor, come May 2019. "I therefore appeal to all our party members that we remain one family and unite behind the candidate of the party, so that we can continue to move this state forward. "The progress of Lagos state is non-negotiable. It is a project that I have passionately worked for in the last three and half years as your Governor and one to which I will forever be devoted. "I wish to use this opportunity to thank our national leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the leadership of our great party at state and national levels, all party faithfuls and all Lagosians. "I thank all Lagosians for their faith and trust in me. I urge you not to relent in your support for our party as we prepare for the general elections. Legit.ng had earlier reported that Lagos state governor, Akinwunmi Ambode will be addressing the people of the state at 2:30 pm on Wednesday, October 3. PAY ATTENTION: Download our mobile app to enjoy the latest news update This is coming after the declaration of Babajide Sanwo-Olu as the winner of the Lagos state All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primary election which held on Tuesday, October 2. Can Ambode Get a Second Term Without Tinubus Approval? - Nigeria Street Gist | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit - President Muhammadu Buhari called the mother of Leah Sharibu - The president assured her that his administration will bring her back safely - Buhari said his heart was with the family President Muhammadu Buhari has called Rebecca Sharibu who is the mother of Leah Sharibu, one of the girls from Dapchi who was abducted by Boko Haram terrorists, assuring the family that his administration will do everything to being her back. In a statement by Garba Shehu who is the senior special assistant to the president on media and publicity on Wednesday, October 3, the president said the government will not relent. He assured that all will be done so she could be united with them. READ ALSO: 6 key things Ambode said in his concession speech as he congratulates Sanwo-Olu The president consoled the Sharibu family and assured the parents that the federal government would do its utmost for the safety and security of their daughter. I convey my emotion, the strong commitment of my administration and the solidarity of all Nigerians to you and your family as we will do our best to bring your daughter home in peace and safety, President Buhari told her. He assured the mother that his heart was with her family, as that of the entire nation which continues to pray for the safe return of our daughter, Leah. Recall that Rebecca Sharibu who is the mother of Leah Sharibu called on the federal government to do everything in bringing back her daughter. The Punch reports that she also denied taking the government to court or demanding N500 million as being reported. Leah was one of the 110 female students of Government Girls Science and Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe State, abducted by Boko Haram in February. Rebecca who spoke during a press conference burst into tears as she recalled that Boko Haram terrorists had reportedly given the government an October deadline to meet their demands. She said: I am here on behalf of my family, particularly me and my husband to plead with the entire world, most especially the Federal Government, President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, to please do whatever they can to ensure that Leah is released. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app A threat has been sent out that with effect from October 2018, Leah Sharibu would be next in line to be killed. I am pleading with the Federal Government to do whatever they feel should be done to release Leah before the expiration of the ultimatum. Monday (tomorrow) will be October 1. It is our desire that anybody that can do anything to free Leah should do that. We thank the entire world, most especially Nigerians for standing with the family and for their prayers on our behalf. Nigerian Air Force Operations Against Boko Haram | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit - Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim has emerged as the candidate of the ANN in the 2019 elections - Olawepo-Hashim won the partys ticket at its national convention and presidential primary election held on Wednesday, October 3 - The convention also ratified the strategic alliance between ANN and another political party, Peoples Trust (PT) Front-line presidential aspirant on the platform of the Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN), Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has emerged as the partys candidate for the 2019 presidential election. Olawepo-Hashim, a former deputy national publicity secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, won the ANNs ticket at the party's national convention and presidential primary election held on Wednesday, October 3, in Abuja with 593 delegates in attendance. The convention ratified his candidature through a voice vote following the earlier withdrawal of another presidential aspirant, Alhaji Ibrahim Eyitayo Dan-Musa. Other presidential aspirants who had earlier indicated interest in the partys ticket did not present themselves for screening by the party. The convention also ratified the strategic alliance between ANN and another political party, Peoples Trust (PT) in the single-minded mission to rescue Nigeria. READ ALSO: 75 year-old Jeremiah Useni emerges as PDP's gubernatorial candidate in Plateau state Prior to the ratification of the candidature of Olawepo-Hashim, the convention had approved the expulsion of the suspended national chairman of the party, Pastor Emmanuel Dania and the deputy national secretary, Osita Okonkwo for alleged anti-party activities. In Danias stead, the pioneer national chairman of the ANN, Dr. Jay Osi-Samuels, who had at the last convention of the party in Abuja stepped aside, returned to the position and was ratified by the convention. The convention and emergence of Olawepo-Hashim as the ANN's presidential candidate was witnessed by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission. Olawepo-Hashim, 53, who was elated at the decision by the delegates to elect him unopposed, said he was more than ever committed to the mission to rescue Nigeria from the stranglehold of underdevelopment and economic backwardness. He said he would vigorously pursue the mandate given to him by the party, promising to deploy it to unite Nigeria, create jobs and put smile on the faces of Nigerians. According to him, Our people are tired of poverty; they want jobs, training for unskilled youths, support for farmers as well as the young and the old. Declaring that there is no time for small boys politics on the way to the promised land, Olawepo-Hashim said, there are political generals in this party and we will not surrender to political boys scouts and girl guides. He further said that having come this far, the political movement for which he had provided leadership was unstoppable. This is not the time for rhetoric. Nigerians want to see politics with integrity. This is not the time for apprentice leadership. The 2019 train must be decisive for change in Nigeria, he stated. He listed his offerings to Nigeria to include building a new economy that will take the nation from $510 billion Gross Domestic Product, GDP, to $4 trillion GDP in the next ten years. According to him, It is that size of economy that will deal with hunger and malnutrition in the land. We want to build a big economy that will cater to 180 million Nigerians. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app He also pointed out that jobs would be created by linking agriculture and solid minerals to industry while concerted effort would be made to unite the country in an atmosphere of freedom by Nigerians to practice their religions without fear of attacks. In a related development, a development expert; Dr Adesina Fagbenro-Byron, has emerged as the presidential candidate of the KOWA party. Fagbenro-Byron, 59, a former member of the PDP, emerged the candidate of the party during the party's special national convention presidential primary in Abuja on Saturday, September 29. He defeated the presidential candidate of the party in 2015, Professor (Mrs) Remi Shonaiya and Ayo Lijadu to clinch the presidential ticket in a free and fair contest observed by Legit.ng. Nigeria News Today: Will Buhari Get Votes Of Nigerian Youth? | Legit.ng TV Source: Legit Nigeria - The Army has constituted a special task force to carry out sting operations aimed at finally locating the whereabouts of Maj Gen Idris Alkali (rtd) - 30 suspects were arrested during the first phase of the operation and various weapons were recovered - The Army says the operation would continue until Alkali is found The chief of Army staff, Lt Gen Tukur Buratai, has constituted a special task force to carry out sting operations aimed at finally locating the whereabouts of Idris Alkali, the retired major-general who went missing on Monday, September 3. In an update on the matter on Wednesday, October 3, the Army said the first phase of the operation involved combing the entire Doi Du community in Du District of Jos South LGA of Plateau state. READ ALSO: Delegates flee as gunmen invade APGA senatorial primaries in Anambra Legit.ng gathers that 30 suspects were arrested during the operation. Some of the arrested suspects (Photo credit: Facebook: HQ Nigerian Army) Source: Depositphotos The Army further disclosed that various weapons were recovered from some of the suspects, including: three locally made single barrel guns, three locally made pistols, five 7.62 MM(SP) RDS, 30 9MM RDS, one pistol magazine and an empty case. Another arrested suspect (Photo credit: Facebook: HQ Nigerian Army) Source: Depositphotos Also recovered were four knives, one locally made sword, three cutlasses, one iron rod, two pairs of boots, vigilante ID cards, five motor cycles, one tricycle, one thousand Korean currency note, a wrist watch, one power bank, 25 assorted phones, two car keys, 2 house keys and a hoe. Some of the recovered weapons (Photo credit: Facebook: HQ Nigerian Army) Source: Depositphotos According to the Army, the operation would continue until Alkali is found. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app Recall that Legit.ng previously reported that the Nigerian Army vowed to completely drain a particular mining pond in Du District of Jos local government area of Plateau, where it said it believed missing retired Major General Idris Alkali was pushed into. Major General Augustine Agundu, the commander of Operation Safe Haven, stated this on Wednesday, September 26, while giving an update on the whereabouts of Alkali. Nigerian Air Force Day Celebration 2018 (54th Anniversary) - on Legit.ng TV: Source: Legit Newspaper - Miss Elizabeth Elijah, who was hit by flying debris from the Air Forces crashed fighter jet, has been awarded a scholarship by the FCTA - The FCTA says it will foot Miss Elijahs bills for as long as she can go in her educational pursuit - The young lady has been stabilised from the trauma and the injury from the harrowing incident, and will be discharged from hospital soon The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is to provide scholarship to Miss Elizabeth Elijah who was hit by flying debris from the crashed fighter jet during air training for Nigeria Independence Day celebration. The director, FCT Universal Basic Education Board (UBEC), Dr Adamu Noma, disclosed this when he visited the girl at Maitama General Hospital, Abuja, with some directors who represented the administration on Wednesday, October 3, in Abuja, NAN reports. Legit.ng gathers that Noma disclosed that the FCT Administration has decided to take care of all expenses for her education, explaining that the scholarship will take care of all her schooling. READ ALSO: Missing general: Army constitutes special task force, arrests suspects As soon as she is discharged from hospital, the scholarship will commence," Noma assured. Miss Elijah was said to be in the farm at Mpape near Maitama District, that fateful day when the ill-fated NAF aircraft mishap happened and she was hit by flying debris from the fighter jet. The ill-fated fighter jet collided with another, killing the pilot during air training for Nigerias Independence Day celebration; and Elijah was hit and injured at the leg by fragments of the jet. Noma also assured that the FCTA has granted her scholarship to university level and that they will be ready to foot her bills for as long as she can go in educational pursuit. He said the FCT Administration would be responsible for her tuition, books, uniform, foot wears and any other requirement needed in school. Alhaji Ahmad Rani, director FCT Scholarship Board, confirmed the scholarship, adding that the board is ready to foot the bills and follow her up. The girl, who is responding to treatment, has been stabilised from the trauma and the injury, and will be discharged soon. Elijah, 15, hails from Kachia, Kaduna state, but resides with her family at Chikoko village in Bwari Area Council of the FCT. She completed primary six in Chikoko, but poverty prevented from proceeding for secondary education. Her father could not afford transport fare from the village to see her at the Maitama Hospital. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app Among those who visited Elijah at the hospital where the scholarship form was presented to the family for proper documentation include the director, FCT Scholarship Board, and director of FCT Call Centre, Hajia Jummai Amadu. Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the chief of air staff, Air Marshal Sadiq Abubakar, instituted an air crash investigation to determine the remote and immediate causes behind the ill fated crash of the military jet that claimed the life of one pilot. This was disclosed in a statement released by Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, the director of public relations and information, Nigerian Air Force, on Friday, September 28. Nigerian Air Force buries pilot who died in fighter jet crash - on Legit.ng TV: Source: Legit Due to being completely behind the eight ball due to travel yesterday and some nasty but thank goodness ultimately false alarms, plus now aging parent duty, this Brexit post will be fragmentary. Enough nutty stuff has happened in the last few days so as to warrant letting our expert commentariat have a say or two about it. It would be easy to see this as Peak Crazy, but given the leadership of the UK, that would likely be a premature call. BoJo promises the impossibleas usual. Despite making noises that sounded an awful lot like preliminaries to a leadership bid, as Politico summed it up, Johnson rounded on Chequers but made a point of saying nice things about Theresa May. That fits my pet theory that the Ultras never wanted to be in charge, all they need to do is obstruct. But Johnson did manage to do more damage to the publics understanding of what is attainable from Brexit talks. From Richard North: This is the moment, Johnson said, to chuck Chequers. That got him prolonged applause, as one might expect. But then he continued with: wanting to scrap the Commissions constitutionally abominable Northern Ireland backstop. That got him more applause. He would then, he told his admirers, use the otherwise redundant and miserable implementation period to the end of 2020 to negotiate the Supercanada FTA. That got him still more applause, whence he added that we would also invest in all the customs procedures that may be needed to ensure continued frictionless trade, and to prepare much more vigorously for coming out on WTO terms. Yet, anyone schooled in the terms insisted upon by the EU would have known instantly that without a backstop, there would be no withdrawal agreement and no implementation period otherwise known as the transitional period ending in December 2020. On that basis, there would be no continued negotiations no Supercanada. We would drop out of the EU on 29 March 2019 without a deal, working solely within the framework of WTO rules. And there Johnson was not only misleading his audience but also confusing himself. If we were supposed to be negotiating with the EU on this free trade deal, there would certainly be a need to invest in customs procedures, but there could hardly be any need to prepare for coming out on WTO terms. An FTA and the WTO option are mutually exclusive. Homing in on the crux of what Mr Johnson was telling us, therefore his message was whether intended or not that we should opt for a no deal Brexit. DUP throws a very big spanner in the works. Speaking of that backstop.for those of you who remember the surprise gambit of the EU allowing the UK to miss the deadline of solving the Irish border problem by having the Government agree to the Joint Agreement last December, which of course included the backstop? The DUP did the verbal equivalent of making a sour face but didnt want to look like a spoiler and threaten to bring the Government down. It has no such compunctions now. Meeting with Prime Minister just ended. NO border in the Irish Sea will ever be acceptable to unionists throughout the UK . . . regulatory or otherwise. pic.twitter.com/VCvzO2uEdD Arlene Foster (@DUPleader) October 2, 2018 Mind you, it was predictable that the DUP would balk at the backstop. But having Foster throw her weight around in such a thuggish manner appears to have caught a lot of key players by surprise. Our Clive sent an article from newsletter.co.uk with more detail on Fosters preview of her meeting: DUP leader Arlene Foster says she has concerns over the Chancellors claim that there may have to be a hard border in Ireland in the event of a no-deal Brexit.Philip Hammond is reported to have told a Tory conference fringe event that in the event of no deal, London, under World Trade Organisation rules, would have to reinstate checks. Ms Foster, speaking at a DUP fringe event, said any extra checks would cause difficulty and added that she would be reiterating her position on the border issue to the Prime Minister Ms Foster was greeted with applause after telling the crowd she would not allow Northern Ireland to become a semi-detached part of the UK. She said: We are not going to allow the United Kingdom to be broken up by Brussels or by anybody else, Northern Ireland is not about to become a semi-detached part of the United Kingdom. We are not bluffing on this issue, we are very clear, our job is to protect the union, our job is to do what is right for Northern Ireland and you can be assured that we will do that. Asked about the Chancellors reported remarks that if the UK operates on WTO terms, checks at the border will be required, Ms Foster said: I have concerns. She added: Thats news, because of course up until now we have been saying that it will not be the UK that will be enforcing any borders. If the European Union feel that they need to have a border in Ireland thats a matter for them if they feel they have to protect their single market in a particular way. So Philip Hammond talking about a border is something new, something we want to explore as well, because certainly thats not my understanding. As the Financial Times drily noted: Mrs Mays team remain confident that the governments solution to the backstop will be enough to address the DUPs main concerns. One cabinet minister noted the carefully worded DUP objections still left space for a deal. Nigel Dodds, the deputy DUP leader, laid out conditions for accepting a backstop, saying: It cant be forever, it must be time limited, it must be finite. It cannot bind Northern Ireland into arrangements that the rest of the United Kingdom is not tied up to. To meet such concerns, Mrs May has focused on ensuring the backstop includes UK-wide arrangements that could temporarily keep Britain in what would be, in effect, a common customs territory with the EU. By contrast, only Northern Ireland would be directly bound by EU regulations. British negotiators are looking to revise parts of the UKs original proposal called the Temporary Customs Arrangement to try to overcome Brussels objections to its legality and workability. Mrs Mays allies say that Britain might stay in a temporary customs union for a few months after the end of a transition deal in January 2021, in the event that a final Brexit trade deal had not been ratified or if more time were needed to allow new technology to be deployed. Some cabinet ministers admit such an extension might last for several years, curtailing Britains ability to strike trade deals into the 2020s. First, Mays confidence is a negative indicator. Second, the EU will never accept an arrangement where they have no assurance of the end date. And something that might last a few years is probably unacceptable under WTO rules, which bars preferential arrangements save on an actual temporary basis. From Slugger OToole (hat tip PlutoniumKun): If they bring Theresa Mays house down, its hard to see where else the DUP will find a safe billet. Plenty of Brexiteers see the border problem as a case of the tail wagging the dog. And while theyll connive with the DUP against Chequers, many will part company with the DUP if they hold out for no checks of any kind and go on to frustrate the alternative Canada free trade deal. Mrs May opposes this because it would kick in the backstop about which the Brexiteers appear to be in denial . Confused? Join the club. How serious are the DUPs threats? Arch remainer Scotlands First minister Nicola Sturgeon says I suspect this is a far more significant development today than the latest Boris Johnson circus. And from ITV Pol Ed Robert Peston: If you read my blog or watched my vlog yesterday, you will know @DUPleader is here ripping up @theresa_mays compromise for Irish backstop, on which any Brexit deal will rest. May will be asking herself how on earth she avoids no-deal Brexit And even more fun, Foster also threatened the Good Friday Agreement. I guess if you plan to burn the house down, why not throw some gas on the fire? From the Independent: Arlene Foster has said the Good Friday Agreement is not sacrosanct, insisting the landmark peace treaty could be altered to accommodate a Brexit deal. The DUP leader, whose party props up Theresa Mays government, said the historic agreement could evolve in the EU context and expressed frustration at warnings from pro-EU campaigners over Brexits potential to undermine aspects of the international treaty. She also poured cold water on Ms Mays idea of having regulatory checks in the Irish Sea, saying: Its our one red line. Critics accused Ms Foster of reckless and desperate stuff and condemned her for prioritising her partys cosy deal with the Conservatives over the ongoing risk of violence in Northern Ireland. Twitter erupted: The Good Friday Agreement is not up for negotiation in Brexit talks. pic.twitter.com/JwKLrnLUN1 Leo Varadkar (@campaignforleo) October 2, 2018 The comments by Arlene Foster in relation to the Good Friday Agreement "reveal a reckless disregard for the peace process, for prosperity and progress" @MaryLouMcDonald #dail #LeadersQs pic.twitter.com/Uih2NuyXKz Sinn Fein (@sinnfeinireland) October 2, 2018 Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has said DUP leader Arlene Foster's suggestion that the Good Friday Agreement is not "sacrosant" is "reckless" @BBCTalkback pic.twitter.com/7zrqwaiFpH BBC News NI (@BBCNewsNI) October 2, 2018 Fianna Fail's #Brexit spokesperson @lichamber accuses the @DUPleader of displaying "an ignorance and an arrogance" and said her party is "worried" by Arlene Foster's comments about the Good Friday Agreement pic.twitter.com/34CwOC3zve Conor McMorrow (@ConorMcMorrow) October 2, 2018 BREXIT: Furious social media backlash at Arlene Foster's Good Friday Agreement 'not sacrosanct' remark. @columeastwood @maryloumcdonald https://t.co/nxA19KQVBT Derry Journal (@derryjournal) October 2, 2018 At least someone had a sense of humor: If we dont want the DUP to touch the Good Friday Agreement we should just tell Arlene Foster its gay. pic.twitter.com/6uRtlbk4Xw Mallow News (@MallowNews) October 2, 2018 Foster is not backing down: DUP leader Arlene Foster defends her comments on the Good Friday Agreement and says they have been "blown out of all proportion." pic.twitter.com/5zJCUo19jc BBC News NI (@BBCNewsNI) October 2, 2018 Which is dodgy given this observation by e-mail by PlutoniumKun: The DUP are trying to walk a political tightrope over the border. They would love nothing more than a hard border, but a great many of their supporters (mostly small farmers and townspeople, many close to the border), know this will be an economic calamity in an already suffering area. I linked yesterday to a poll indicating that 71% of Northern Irelanders (excluding dont knows) are now Remainers. So while the DUP are digging in, they are clearly losing their own supporters over this hence their pretence that they are for Brexit and an open border, its only the dastardly EU and Dublin that would insist on border barriers. Hammond blew that out of the water (intentionally or not, I dont know) yesterday. The DUP are in deep danger of splitting Unionism down the middle over this, and they are likely to be the losers if that happens. But they are certainly painting themselves into a corner politically. They are of course right that no agreement cant be rewritten, but there is no realistic possibility of this occuring with the GFA, all nationalists would be united in refusing to engage. May has to decide whether to jettison them or not, and when it comes to the crunch, they are expendable, I dont think they realise this as they live in their own little bubble. Brexit looks to have entered the state that Lambert calls an overly dynamic situation. Among other things, that means that obvious lunacy, as opposed to the sort that the Government and the press barons could package up to look reasonable, is the new normal. And we arent the only ones to reach this conclusion. From John Crace, again courtesy PlutoniumKun: Yves here. This piece is a bit heavy on enthusiasm for techno-alternatives to fertilizer, but provides an informative overview of the problem. By Nathanael Johnson (@savortooth on Twitter), Grists senior writer and the author of two books. Originally published at Grist Issac Christiancy was a white-bearded 79-year-old when the shooting over nitrogen started. It was January 15, 1881, and the U.S. envoy to Peru had to duck for cover. Bullets whizzed through a suburb of Lima, pattering thick and fast upon the buildings around us, he later wrote back to Washington, D.C. Christiancy fled, throwing himself over walls and wading through ditches over an eight-mile run as shells from Chilean gunboats exploded around him, until he stumbled into his offices. Peru soon surrendered, and the night that followed was a nightmare of chaos and unutterable horrors as the remnants of the defeated Peruvian army looted, burned, and terrorized the city. Chile had invaded Peru for a seemingly unlikely prize: nitrogen fertilizer. Twenty years earlier, the great European powers and the United States had come to the brink of global war over three tiny islands off the coast of Peru covered in mountains of nitrogen-rich guano. Why would anyone come to blows over piles of bird crap? Because nitrogen gave these countries the power to feed their growing populations. Peruvian guano was, as one historian put it, worth more than all the gold shipped back to Europe in the Spanish treasure galleons. Nitrogen is everywhere. It makes up 80 percent of the air youre breathing. On its own, it has no real value. But if its combined into a molecule with another element, like hydrogen or oxygen, it becomes something that can react with other chemicals. In this fixed state, plants can use it to build proteins. Our bodies use those proteins, in turn, to build muscles, bones, DNA, and babies. But back in the 19th century, fixed nitrogen was limited. In the early 1800s, the English scholar Thomas Malthus warned of famine as population growth began to overtake farm production. Then settlers discovered the guano islands and nitrate mines of South America, and fertilizer-laden clipper ships streamed around Cape Horn back to Europe, giving farmers bumper crops and feeding a baby boom. Britains population quadrupled over the next 100 years. Then in 1908, as South American nitrogen was beginning to run low, the chemist Fritz Haber discovered a way to take the inert nitrogen in air and turn it into the reactive forms plants and animals use. Haber opened the faucet for nitrogen to flow from the air to the living world, wrote geographer Ruth DeFries. Instead of waning, populations continued to boom. This breakthrough solution created a crisis as large as the one it solved. Since Habers discovery, humans have nearly doubled Earths natural flow of fixed nitrogen, overwhelming the capacity of ecosystems to remove it. The resulting buildup is poisoning the planets waterways, creating a crisis some consider even more threatening than the buildup of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. But we cant simply turn off the spigot of industrial nitrogen, because we depend on it. More than 3 billion peopl ewouldnt be alive today without Habers industrial process. Now, for the first time in over a hundred years, theres a potential solution. A pack of startups is racing to market with a means of fixing nitrogen without polluting the Earth. One of them, Pivot Bio, just garnered a $70 million vote of confidence in a funding round led by Breakthrough Energy Ventures, the coalition of big-name billionaires Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, Michael Bloomberg, Richard Branson hoping to power climate change-beating innovation. Pivot Bio is addressing one of the largest sources of GHGs on the planet, said Carmichael Roberts, a Breakthrough investor, in a press release. He noted that the Berkeley, California-based biotech might earn a fortune by disrupting the $200 billion fertilizer market. Next year, Pivot plans to start getting farmers nitrogen-fixing bacteria which efficiently delivers fertilizer to crops, no fossil fuels required. Farmers will spritz seeds with a liquid probiotic as they bury them in the ground. Another startup, Azotic Technologies based in England, is racing to bring a different bacterium to market around the same time. Intrinsyx Bio a spin-off from a company that supplies NASA with bacteria and other critters for experiments plans to put yet another bacterium on the market in 2020. And at least one other, the Bayer-backed Joyn Bio, is just ramping up. If any of them is able to provide a viable alternative to the international fertilizer industry, it could be the most significant environmental breakthrough since Haber figured out a way to synthetically release nitrogen from its natural bonds. Seemingly every startup even CryptoKitties selling cartoon cats likes to say its creating technology that will change the world. But for the companies racing to fix nitrogen, its no stretch. If this solution proves out, it would clean up the pollution choking the planets life support systems, without forcing widespread famine and a return to the nitrogen wars. Earth is marinating in the flood of nitrogen Haber uncorked. Start with so-called dead zones. Less than halfof the nitrogen that farmers spread makes it into food. The excess washes out of fields with other fertilizers and winds up in rivers, lakes, and bays where it catalyzes algal blooms. The bacteria that eat this algal slime suck the oxygen out of the water, killing every animal that cant flee, and creating huge areas covered in slime and suffocated of oxygen and light. There are now more than 400 of these dead zones around the world (and algae problems in Florida recently barged into the U.S. Senate race), covering an area the size of Oregon. In the dead zone at the mouth of the Mississippi River, an estimated 235,000 tons of fish and other sea creatures perish each year. Wherever they gather, nitrogen compounds turn poisonous. In drinking water, they cause blue baby syndrome, which prevents infants from absorbing oxygen; in lakes, they fertilize neurotoxic algae; in farm country, they are a major source of suffocating smog. Then theres the climate. Some of the nitrogen seeps out of the ground as nitrous oxide (yep, laughing gas), which turns out to be a greenhouse gas 300 times as potent as carbon dioxide. Manufacturing nitrogen fertilizer sucks up 1 percent of all the energy humanity harnesses, more than all the wind and solar energy produced worldwide last year, and produces as much greenhouse gas as all the homes in the United States. The worlds largest factory for fixing nitrogen sits alongside the west bank of the Mississippi River in Louisiana, an hours drive from New Orleans. The CF Industries Donaldson Nitrogen Complex contains 1,400 acres of concrete tanks and steel gridwork with twisting pipes that lead to a series of chambers where gas and air are brought together at up to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a pressure cooker that could squish a human body like a grape. Thats what it takes to turn nitrogen from the air into fertilizer. At least, thats how humans do it. Bacteria accomplish this same feat of engineering within the fragile wall of a single cell. They offer a microscopic solution for this enormous problem. Theres a simple elegance and beauty in the way these microbes activate nitrogen, said Karsten Temme, Pivot Bios CEO. Instead of fossil fuel, these bacteria run on sugar, which they get from plants in exchange for nitrogen. And they produce fertilizer exactly when and where plants need it: Pivots bacteria coat roots like a glove, Temme said, feeding them tiny squirts of nitrogen as they grow. Thats much more precise than spreading synthetic nitrogen, or organic guano, or liquid manure pumped from a holding tank under a hog barn. In short, turning to bacteria for fertilizer holds the potential to stem pollution without famine, food rationing, or more wars over nitrogen. Temme was a graduate student at the University of California, Berkeley when he became entranced with the ability of bacteria to fix nitrogen. He started working with another student named Alvin Tamsir first helping each other in the lab, then having mind-melding conversations outside its confines. They decided to start a company that would genetically engineer plants to produce their own fertilizer, thus solving the nitrogen crisis. It was ridiculously audacious, but at the time as lifelong students about to graduate every other career option seemed just as daunting, Temme said. Their professors were behind them, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation gave them the money to get on their feet, and they won a spot in a University of California, San Francisco startup incubator. Pivot officially started in November 2011, and for the next two years Temme and Tamsir tried and failed to accomplish what scientists had been attempting to do since the 1970s pluck the genetic instructions for nitrogen fixation out of bacteria and into crops. But each attempt failed. Researchers have learned that the problem contains maddening layers of complexity. Gary Stacey, a scientist on Pivots scientific advisory board who has been working on nitrogen fixation since 1975, told me, My 43 years experience says its never going to work its an extreme challenge. Temme and Tamsir were running out of money, and they were nowhere close to producing a plant that could fertilize itself. Meanwhile, debates over genetic engineering were raging. Even if they somehow succeeded, theyd need buckets of money to get through years of regulatory review, and even then the public might fear and reject the GMO plants. By mid-2013, it seemed hopeless. We were in a tough spot, Temme said. On a gray day, Temme and Tamsir, both feeling defeated, laid down their pipettes and left their lab in search of coffee. To comprehend what happened on that coffee break, you have to understand a revolution in scientific thinking that was underway. Fortunately for Temme and Tamsir, scientific progress had just opened the way for them to take a new direction. The old dogma was that aside from Habers industrial process the only way people could fix nitrogen was to grow fields of legumes, like peas, beans, alfalfa, or clover. Thats because legumes have these strange grape-like clusters on their roots called root nodules, which provide a home for rhizobia, a class of nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Sharon Doty, a professor of environmental and forest science at the University of Washington, upended this dogma. Back in 2001, Doty was in postdoctoral program at the school and wanted to take a close look at poplar trees, starting with growing a few poplar cells in petri dishes. But no matter how much she scrubbed the poplar sprigs she brought into the lab, no matter how long she soaked them in bleach, shed wind up growing brown ooze all over her poplar cell cultures. In exasperation, she analyzed the slimes DNA. To be honest, I wanted to identify it so I could figure out how to kill it, she said. To her surprise, the DNA revealed that the slime was a species of rhizobia. What are rhizobia doing inside these trees? Doty marveled. The thing is, poplars dont have root nodules. The bacteria Doty found were living throughout the trees, in the spaces between the cells, moving from the leaves to the roots and back again. Its presence made sense: Her poplar trees were growing in the rocky shoals of the Snoqualmie River in Washington state. Where were they getting their nitrogen? Certainly not from the rocks or the water, which was pure alpine snowmelt. It was only logical that the poplars and maybe lots of other plants had partnered with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in a manner previously unknown to science. When Doty wrote up a paper describing her discovery, her peers were skeptical. Scientific journals rejected her work for three years believing nitrogen fixation was limited to root nodules until it was finally published in 2005. I wanted to tell these reviewers, Just go outside, she recalled. You find plants in sand bars, in land scraped bare by glaciers, in lava flows. You can see these things! Where do you think they get their nitrogen? Doty would soon be vindicated. In the next decade, the tools that allow us to read DNA improved dramatically, revealing tiny worlds previously invisible to scientists. As a result, scientists began to realize that there were hundreds, maybe thousands, of microbes that had evolved to fix nitrogen for plants. Dotys discovery, along with many others (in science its never just one person), set the stage for the epiphany Temme and Tamsir had as they were walking, dejectedly, with their coffees eight years after Doty published her research. The pair admitted to each other that they were failing: It was just too hard to train plants to fix their own nitrogen. But what if they tried something simpler? Instead of engineering plants, what if they worked with nitrogen-fixing soil bacteria? Farmers could plant a liquid probiotic along with their seeds, allowing the nitrogen-fixing bacteria to grow with the plants. The solution was there all along, beneath our feet in the roots of every plant, Temme said. The two returned to their lab filled with new hope. It might have been among the most mood-altering coffee breaks in scientific history. Pivot pivoted. The company began prospecting for bacteria in buckets of soil from farms all over the United States and uncovered hundreds more nitrogen-fixing critters. Other companies wound up on similar paths. Azotic Technologies started working with a bacterium found in sugarcane, while Intrinsyx Bio, based in Silicon Valley, began testing the bacteria Doty had discovered. The science is ready, Doty said. A lot of ag companies are pushing hard. I think we are at the point where we are ready for these products. After six months working on bacteria, Pivot Bio had something: A small seedling in a test tube, growing heartily on nitrogen supplied by bacteria. It was just a start, but this proof of concept was enough to raise millions of dollars in venture capital. You can see the ripples of the nitrogen-fixing bacteria boom in an unremarkable office park in West Sacramento. The pharmaceutical and chemical giant Bayer built a 160,000 square-foot campus here in 2013 and devoted the space to creating a future where bacteria largely replace chemicals in farming. Its hard for multinational conglomerates to move like nimble startups so the company set aside nearly $700 million to fund moonshot startups. One of these, Joyn, launched last year and has already raised $100 million. (Pivot Bio has raised $87 million, Azotic has kept mum about its funding, while Intrinsyx Bio hasnt started raising money.) That giants like Bayer are trying to solve the nitrogen problem ups the odds that someone will succeed, because its not enough to simply identify a nitrogen-fixing bacterium. The startups also must master the art of marketing to farmers and the logistics of keeping a living organism perky while distributing. To knock out synthetic nitrogen, theyll have to fit seamlessly into modern agriculture. For four years, Pivot Bio has been testing its bacteria with farmers across the country. Every few months, buckets of dirt and baggies of corn roots arrive in the mail for the scientists at Pivot to examine. The company doesnt expect to replace all nitrogen fertilizer not yet. But Pivot thinks it can replace one pass of a tractor (up and down the fields to apply fertilizer), decreasing the amount of time, equipment, and nitrogen that farmers must dedicate to each field. Several sources cautioned me that nitrogen-fixing bacteria might only be the first step in tackling the nitrogen conundrum. Thats because, after decades of breeding corn to thrive with abundant fertilizer, our high-yielding crops might have lost the cooperation genes they need to work with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Pivots bacterium pumps out as much nitrogen fertilizer as it can. So I had to wonder, could it multiply out of control and accidentally make the pollution problem worse? I ran this question by Chris Voigt, a scientist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, who oversaw Temme and Tasmir when they were working at UCSF. The more engineered an organism is, he said, the less likely it is to spread. A bacteria that devotes its energy to fixing nitrogen is woefully maladapted for life in the wild. These bacteria are like those chickens bred to grow such massive breasts that they can barely stand up. Its essentially the same, Voigt explains. Instead of channeling all a chickens energy into its breast meat, you are forcing the cell to pump its energy into nitrogen fixation. All the startup founders I talked to are aware that even if farmers want these bacteria, eaters might not. Temme stressed that Pivots first bacterium doesnt contain DNA from another species, but the company has tweaked the bacterial DNA so that it keeps fixing nitrogen even in the presence of other fertilizers, and that might be enough scare up anti-GMO protesters. Azotic hasnt made any tweaks to its bacteria but because the bacterium lives inside of plants, people might get nervous about eating a new bacterium in their corn. Peter Blezard, the CEO of Azotic, told me that the bacteria is approved as food grade, meaning risk analysts think its no more dangerous than probiotic yogurt. Still, its worthwhile to be wary. A century ago, no one anticipated the environmental problems that industrial nitrogen would cause; instead, it was hailed as our deliverance from famine. If any of these companies finds a way to deliver us from industrial nitrogen, it would be the biggest agricultural breakthrough in a century. It would also fix one of the largest environmental disasters of modern times. Sure, it may lead to other problems in another 100 years, but its safe to say that wars over guano islands and nitrate mines wont be one of them. A Common Bacterium Has Been Discovered Thriving in a Place Where It Shouldnt Exist ScienceAlert (Kevin W) A study of bacteria in the Sundarbans has implications for conservation of the mangrove system The Scroll (J-LS) Ask Slashdot: Why Does Almost Nothing Come With a Proper Printed Manual Anymore? Slashdot. A pet peeve of mine! And to the extent there is documentation (with the device or online) it usually sucks. The documentation for my 3G Nokia 3310 (a new issue retro dumbphone) was terrible, but since after barely any use, the phone no longer effectively makes calls (it says it is dialing but isnt and my antique 2G Nokia can make calls in the same spots, so it isnt a network issue), I suppose it is no loss. Austin restaurants can no longer throw away food kxan.com (J-LS) North Korea Pompeo to meet with North Koreas Kim on Sunday The Hill Indonesia Brussels to Rome: Dont push it Politico Brexit I Just Visited Lula, the Worlds Most Prominent Political Prisoner. A Soft Coup in Brazils Election Will Have Global Consequences. Noam Chomsky, Intercept (UserFriendly). New Cold War Syraqistan Big Brother is Watching You Watch Tariff Tantrum Trump Transition Trump Engaged in Suspect Tax Schemes New York Times. This is impressively detailed. I dont mean to sound unduly skeptical, but the tax pro I reached was underwhelmed by this story, so I think we need to let the tax mavens chew over this one. The shortcomings here apparently include: 1. Settlements of big estates often involve disputes between the IRS and the estate and heirs over valuation of assets. IRS usually loses. Famous example was Sy Newhouse. This example from the story is not part of the estate but another apparent abuse (failure to pay gift taxes): the article goes through a fishy-looing valuation of Trump Palace shares bought by Fred Trump and later sold to The Donald at an extremely knocked-down price, but omits that Fred Trump bought the shares at the peak of the 1980s cycle, in 1987, and the NYC real estate market collapsed in the early 1990s. So even though Fred Trump still almost certainly exaggerated how much the value of his shares fell, both the residential and commercial RE markets in NYC tanked during this period, and the article is remiss in not mentioning that. 2. A lot of the alleged abuse in this article is of the father not paying gift taxes on gifts to The Donald. The donor is the one who has the tax liability, not the recipient. The story also reminds readers of a particular illegal gift for which fines were paid: the purchase of chips at one of Trumps casinos with money that came from Trumps father. The article puts likely gift tax abuses next to accounts of the father setting up trusts and partnerships from which The Donald benefitted. That sort of thing is very common among the rich; youd need to know a lot more to see if there was anything improper (the big allegation is valuation abuse, see point 1 above). Note the father was clearly moving income aggressively into his kids hands when they were young, witness the article saying Trump was getting $200,000 a year at age 3, and even states: Fred Trump was relentless and creative in finding ways to channel this wealth to his children.. Recall the drama over Trumps ginormous tax loss deduction in the 1990s, which tax experts have chewed over and came up with at least two routes by which this could have been kosher. Put it another way: lets see how tax experts who have some knowledge of how much people on the high end get away with calibrate what in this story is really bad v. what looks bad but the IRS has lost enough cases on that the tax pros think they are at little risk in pushing the envelope way beyond where mere mortals could go. Having said that, there is a long discussion of overpaying for third-party services to various Fred Trump properties, with the excess proceeds largely going to Trump heirs with the apparent intent to escape gift taxes (note the recipients presumably paid income taxes). What does this look like? Private equity charging portfolio companies fees for services not rendered at all (as in they are disguised dividends) and/or inflated fees. They likely got this idea from NYC real estate families (most NYC big end commercial real estate is developed and owned by families like the Fisher Brothers and the LeFraks). The higher costs also served to justify rent increases in rent-regulated residential buildings that would otherwise have been impermissible. In other words, this looks like a hot new grifting idea making the rounds among the lawyers that served families like the Trumps. Lambert says there is little Twitterverse follow through on this story. Too dull compared to Kavanaugh? Or as Lambert says, this is already in the price, that a New York real estate developer playing tax games, some of which may be illegal, is not all that surprising? Trump taxes: New York authorities examine presidents tax affairs. BBC State Opens Probe Into Trump Tax Allegations in New York Times Story Bloomberg 76 Environmental Rules on the Way Out Under Trump New York Times The Great Revolt: Understanding Real Trump Voters Public Discourse (UserFriendly). Important. Trump administration denied it has secret committee seeking negative information on marijuana: report The Hill Kavanaugh Closing the barn door after the horse is in the next county: SCHUMER: of Dems take over the Senate, we will have to look at setting the SCOTUS nominee requirement back up to 60 votes Lisa Desjardins (@LisaDNews) October 2, 2018 Mixed Reactions to 2020 Census Preparation National Conference of State Legislatures (UserFriendly) Modern Monetary Theory Grapples With People Actually Paying Attention to It Intercept (UserFriendly) Elon Musks Ultimatum to Tesla: Fight the S.E.C., or I Quit New York Times (Kevin W) Tesla confirms Q3 production: 80,000 vehicles and 83,500 deliveries TSLA up Elektrek. Hhm. Sudden upward revision of the Bloomberg Tracker, but #s still lower than Teslas 3 Reasons Nuclear Power Plants Are More Expensive In The West (Its Not Regulation) Forbes. Probably applies to construction generally. Natural Gas Prices Could Quadruple This Winter, Says Analyst Barrons Climate Change Is Forcing the Insurance Industry to Recalculate Wall Street Journal One Hundred Years of Ineptitude Project Syndicate (David L) Guillotine Watch Class Warfare Antidote du jour, from JS in Ontario: Mink (I think) beside the pond on my golf course. From today. Cute and curious. I squeaked to attract its attention and got a great response. The course is managed, inspected and certified for bird and wildlife habitat protection/restoration/enhancement. We keep many bee hives, herbs and seasonal vegetables and produce some maple syrup on our floodplain-based urban golf course property. All are used in the restaurant (and sold separately, if there is any surplus). Many species of plants, trees, birds and other animals live here. We specifically protect and fence off sand traps when the snapping turtles lay their eggs in them. And a bonus video from Kevin W: See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here. The new LaGuardia Airport will be one of the biggest American infrastructure projects of recent times. The catch? They must keep the existing airport 100% operational without descending into chaos and delays? Thursdays from 8:30pm AEDT. Irish Water says it plans to write to homes and businesses on the public water network in Clonmel where the drinking water quality is not as good as it could be. Water from the scheme affected, the Clonmel and Poulavanogue Public Water Supply, is still safe to drink. An Irish Water spokesman said the letter will outline what the utility is doing to improve supply in this scheme, which serves 2,711 customers, to improve supply. The Clonmel & Poulavanogue Public Water Supply is affected by potential issues in relation to cryptosporidium. To address this, Irish Water is upgrading the Poulavanouge Water Treatment Plant. We expect the works to be completed by the end of 2020. In the past, Irish Water only contacted homes and businesses if there was a problem with their drinking water supply that was likely to cause an immediate risk to health. Irish Water will continue to do that. However, the recent Water Services Policy Statement 2018 2025 called for better engagement with, and greater transparency for people using public water supplies. This direct communication is an important part of helping the public to understand what we do. Homes and businesses in 16 counties across the country on 53 different water supply schemes will receive a detailed booklet outlining the issues with their water supply which might vary from elevated THMs; inadequate barriers for cryptosporidium; poor turbidity removal; presence of low levels of pesticides; or details of an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) audit of a plant. The individual booklet will explain in detail to householders where their drinking water comes from; why Irish Water are writing to them; how Irish Water know that their water is safe to drink; information about regulation and testing; what Irish Water is doing to fix their specific water supply; and where they can get more information. The Clonmel & Poulavanogue Public Water Supply is affected by potential issues in relation to cryptosporidium. To address this, Irish Water is upgrading the Poulavanouge Water Treatment Plant. We expect the works to be completed by the end of 2020. Speaking about the public information campaign, Duane OBrien said: Irish Water has worked closely with the EPA to identify the public water schemes that need a plan or action to improve their water treatment. We are prioritising our investment in these treatment plants. Providing safe, clean drinking water for all in County Tipperary is our first goal. Everyone we are writing to in County Tipperary has access to drinking water that is safe to drink. We monitor and test our supplies on a continuous basis and if this monitoring indicates a potential water quality issue we consult with the HSE. If there is any potential risk to public health from the drinking water supply we inform the public immediately. If anyone has any questions or concerns they should contact Irish Water. If members of the public have any questions that are not covered in booklet please phone us on Callsave 1850 278 278 or +353 1 707 2828 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). A mother of five caught driving in Carrick-on-Suir while under the influence of an intoxicant while on temporary release from prison and banned from driving for 20 years, was sentenced to four months imprisonment at Carrick-on-Suir District Court's latest sitting. The jail sentence along with a 10 year driving licence disqualification were imposed on Mary Ryan of No. 17 Sharwood Estate, Newcastle West, Co. Limerick, who pleaded guilty at the court to driving under the influence of an intoxicant at De Valera, Place, Carrick-on-Suir. Gda. John Downey said Gda. Sean Cuddy noticed Ryan driving a car at this location at 9pm on August 24 last year. He followed the car and when he stopped it, he noticed Ryan's eyes were glazed and she staggered when she got out of the car. The court heard that Ryan had 119 previous convictions, 11 of which were for driving while disqualified. She was disqualified from driving for 20 years. Defence solicitor Aidan Leahy said his client had a "very chequered" past and was recently released from prison after serving a 10 month jail term imposed last November for theft. Her five children aged between 15 and 2 lived with her husband and she was anxious not to receive a custodial sentence as she wanted to return to her children. He pointed out that Ryan committed this driving offence around the same time she committed a number of offences for which she received the 10 month sentence in November. Judge King, however, said he must impose a custodial sentence in this case citing the fact Ryan was on temporary release from prison, under a 20 year disqualification and her record of 119 previous convictions as reasons. He backdated the commencement of the four months sentence to September 3, the date she was placed in custody and fixed recognisance in the event of appeal. The NATO Secretary General, Mr. Jens Stoltenberg, will travel to Belgrade from Saturday, 6 October to Monday, 8 October 2018. During the visit, the Secretary General will meet the President of the Republic, H.E. Mr. Aleksandar Vucic as well as the Prime Minister, H.E. Ms. Ana Brnabic. On 8 October the NATO Secretary General will join the President of the Republic of Serbia for the opening ceremony of the civil emergency exercise SRBIJA 2018, co-organized by the NATO Euro-Atlantic Disaster Response Coordination Centre (EADRCC) and the Serbian Ministry of Interior. On 8 October Mr. Stoltenberg will also deliver a speech at a conference organized by the Belgrade Security Forum. Mr. Stoltenberg will also meet with students at the Faculty of Philology of the University of Belgrade. Media Advisory (All times local) Monday, 8 October 2018 09:00 NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and the President of the Republic of Serbia H.E. Mr. Aleksandar Vucic jointly open the civil emergency exercise SRBIJA 2018 Mladenovac, Serbia 10:00 Photo opportunity with the NATO Secretary General and the President of the Republic of Serbia, H.E. Mr. Aleksandar Vucic 10:10 Secretary Generals joint press conference with the President of the Republic of Serbia, H.E. Mr. Aleksandar Vucic Mladenovac, Serbia 11:30 NATO Secretary General delivers a speech at a conference organized by the Belgrade Security Forum Hyatt Hotel, Belgrade Still and video images of the meeting will be available on the NATO website after the event. Professional-quality videos and b-roll will be available for download from www.natomultimedia.tv. Please register for access. Contact: content@natomultimedia.tv Follow us on Twitter (@NATOPress and @jensstoltenberg). (As delivered) Good afternoon. Today and tomorrow, NATOs Defence Ministers will take forward decisions from the NATO Summit here in Brussels in July. First, we will discuss our efforts to achieve fairer burden-sharing within the Alliance. The Summit showed a new sense of urgency among Allies to invest 2 % of GDP on defence. And to have credible national plans to do so. We have made significant progress. Over the past two years, European Allies and Canada have spent a cumulative 41 billion dollars more on defence. And I expect Allies to make good on their commitments. Second, we will focus on strengthening NATOs deterrence and defence. Tomorrow morning, we will hold a meeting of the Nuclear Planning Group. This is part of Allies regular consultations to keep NATOs nuclear deterrent safe, secure and effective. We will also address concerns about Russias violations of the INF Treaty. We will review the adaptation of the NATO Command Structure, which was another key decision at the July Summit. This will include over 1,200 additional personnel. And two new commands to improve the movement of troops across the Atlantic, and Europe. We are also setting up our new Cyber Operations Centre, which will help us strengthen our defences against a real and present threat. Our top military commanders will brief us on the progress made. And third, we will address our work with partner countries. Which play an essential role in our efforts to project stability in our neighbourhood. Georgia is one of our closest partners. And a country aspiring to NATO membership. So we will start the ministerial with a meeting of the NATO-Georgia Commission. One of the main issues we will discuss is Black Sea security. We are working closer together on this. Because the Black Sea is of strategic importance to all of us. We will also review NATOs response to instability on our southern borders. Preparations are underway for our new training mission in Iraq. It will include more than 500 troops, and help the country preserve the gains made by the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. Finally, we will meet with the EU High Representative / Vice President Federica Mogherini. And our colleagues from Finland and Sweden. We will discuss our cooperation in areas including military mobility and managing hybrid threats. And we will hear about the EUs defence initiatives. Done in the right way, these efforts can contribute to fairer burden-sharing between Europe and North America. And with that, Im ready to take your questions. Q (Reuters): Secretary General, yesterday the United States made its offensive and defensive cyber weapons available to NATO. Which other countries do you expect to come forward to offer their capabilities to NATO? And what kind of guidelines will you use at NATO to determine whether a cyber or a more traditional kinetic attack would be more appropriate in a conflict situation? Thank you. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg: We have seen an increasing number of cyber attacks. They are more frequent, they are more sophisticated, and they are more coercive. So thats the reason why NATO has done a lot to strengthen our cyber defences, improve our cyber capabilities, both to protect cyber networks within NATO, but also to help Allies protecting their networks. We see cyber being used to meddle in domestic political processes, attacks against critical infrastructure, and cyber will be an integral part of any future military conflict. So cyber is important. And thats the reason why we have decided that a cyber attack can trigger Article 5 our collective defence clause. Thats the reason why we are now in the process of establishing cyber as a military domain, alongside air, sea, land. And thats also the reason why we, as part of new Command Structure, have decided to establish a new Cyber Operations Centre to better coordinate and lead our cyber activities. On top of that, we also do more exercises and we are stepping up our efforts in the cyber domain in many different ways. Part of that is to establish a framework, which we have already done, to enable us to include national cyber capabilities into NATO missions and operations. And I welcome any announcement from any Ally to provide this kind of national cyber contributions. Some Allies have already done that, for instance the UK and Denmark. I expect other Allies to follow, but Ill let the ministers announce the announcements themselves. And this is important, I think we have seen that not least in fight against terrorism, in the fight against ISIS/Daesh. It was extremely important to have cyber capabilities to disrupt their cyber networks of ISIS, to reduce their capabilities when it comes to recruiting, financing and communicating. So the inclusion of national cyber often called offensive cyber in NATO missions and operations, is just one of many elements in how were strengthening NATO cyber defence. Q (Nezavisen Vesnik): Mr. Stoltenberg, as the debate in Macedonia is open now, what do you think what is better for the country, to have constitutional changes in the parliament or to have early elections? NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg: I will leave that to be decided the people of the country and the parliament in Skopje and the government in Skopje. Its not for me to go into how you do, the country does national decision-making. What I can say is that membership in NATO is only possible if the name agreement with Greece is implemented. There is no alternative way into NATO or the international community without a mutually accepted, agreed name agreement with Greece. And therefore I welcomed the name agreement, therefore I have supported the full implementation of the name agreement, because I think that will be a great advantage for the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia1, for the region and for NATO. But at the end of the day, this is for the parliament, the politicians, the people of the country to decide. We will welcome them, we are ready to welcome them as our 30th member, but they have to then make sure that the name agreement is implemented, because there is no alternative way into NATO. Q (ZDF): Secretary General, you were just mentioning the possible violation of the INF Treaty by the Russian side. What exactly is it what you expect from the Russian side, and what would happen if the Russian side does not fulfil your expectations regarding what Ambassador Hutchison said yesterday that the US side would be ready to take them out? NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg: The Ambassador clarified that what she meant was that it is important that Russia complies with the INF Treaty. And all Allies fully agree that it is extremely important that Russia, in a transparent way, comply with the INF Treaty. Because the INF Treaty is a cornerstone of European security. I remember when Russia deployed intermediate-range nuclear weapons back in the 70s and 80s. NATO responded with what we call the dual-track decision in 79, and started to deploy Pershing and cruise missiles. And we had really an arms race in Europe, with intermediate-range nuclear forces, until we reached the INF Treaty in 87 which didnt only reduce but actually abolished all intermediate-range weapons. This has been extremely important for security, stability in Europe. It is a very important agreement, and any violation of this agreement is something NATO Allies take very seriously. Therefore we are very serious about our concerns, and therefore very serious when we call on Russia to comply with the INF Treaty in a transparent and verifiable way. They dont do that now, because theyre not transparent on what they do when they develop a new missile. A missile they for a long time denied existed, now they have admitted that the missile exists, and therefore we have called on them to answer our questions. And as long as they dont answer our questions, the most plausible conclusion is that this is a violation of the INF Treaty. I expect that this issue will be raised at the Defence Ministerial. It was discussed at the Summit in July, and now we are following up with a clear message to Russia that they have to come into full, transparent and verifiable compliance of the INF Treaty. Thats our focus now, and well continue to push for that. Q (ARD): Ive got one question on the Trident Juncture exercise, which is planned to be the biggest exercise. Why is this coming now, and is this in relation to the worsening relations with Russia? NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg: The Trident Juncture exercise in Norway was announced back in 2013. And its a long time planned exercise. We had the last Trident Juncture exercise in Italy, Spain and Portugal back in 2015 and now we have the exercise in Norway. It is a big exercise, but that reflects that NATO has implemented the biggest adaptation of our collective defence since the end of the Cold War. Because we live in a more dangerous world, and a more unpredictable world, with new threats and new challenges. We see a more assertive Russia, which has implemented a big reinforcement of its military capabilities, modernised its military capabilities; which is exercising with many big exercises and which has modernised its nuclear capabilities. And most importantly, which has been willing to use force against neighbours as weve seen in Georgia and in Ukraine. So what NATO does is defensive, it is proportionate, and it is something we do in response to what we have seen surrounding us with a more demanding security environment. So I welcome the fact that this will be the biggest exercise in many years. All NATO Allies will participate, many partners will be there. And well exercise how we defend an Ally against armed attack. And we will do that with air, naval, land forces, but also of course using cyber capabilities, and all of this working together. Q (24 TV Ukraine): Since illegal construction of Crimean bridge, Russia has intensified its aggressive activity in Azov Sea. Will this issue be on the table today? And another questions, is there any talks between NATO and Ukraine on this issue, and NATO can help Ukraine to tackle this problem? Thank you. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg: All NATO Allies stand in solidarity with Ukraine. We express our strong support for Ukraine, its sovereignty, its territorial integrity. We will not and have not recognized the illegal annexation of Crimea, and we will continue to provide political and practical support to Ukraine. President Poroshenko, he was at the Summit in July, I met with him; I also saw him in New York just a few days ago. And the situation in Ukraine, around Ukraine, in the Azov Sea, in Crimea is something we always discuss. And NATO Allies express their strong support practical and political support. We are of course concerned about the situation in the Azov Sea. We have seen that commercial vessels have been impeded by the Russian presence there. And also the Russian presence in Crimea and the activities connected to the new bridge. So all of this is part of what we see as an ongoing campaign to undermine the stability of Ukraine. And since we so strongly support the stability, the sovereignty, and the territorial integrity, of course this issue well continue to address together with the Ukrainians. Q (Vijesti): You talked about the referendum in Macedonia. So in your opinion, how will the results of the referendum affect the security situation in the Western Balkans? Especially in the context of the Russian influence, like the one we saw in Macedonia and previously in Montenegro? Thank you. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg: When it comes to the way forward in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia1, its up to the people, the politicians, the government, the National Assembly of the country to decide. I know that theyre now looking into the possibility of having the necessary constitutional changes, and the government has also mentioned the possibility of a new election. But again, thats not for me, its for them to assess and decide. I think what we have seen is that NATO enlargement in general, but also of course in the Western Balkans, has contributed to stability, to security and also to prosperity in the region. The fact that Montenegro became a member has been good for Montenegro, it has been good for the stability of the region. But it has also helped to create the basis, the framework for more investments, for economic prosperity. After Montenegro joined, the Alliance, investments from NATO Allies have doubled. So I hope that we can see the same development with the name agreement between Skopje and Athens. But again, its for the country itself to decide now on the way forward. Q (VG): There are reports from the US indicating that the intelligence community, American intelligence community, should refocus more on Russia and China, and less on terrorism. So I wonder, from your perspective, is it necessary to gather more information about whats going on in Russia than it kind of used to be in the Cold War 2.0 setting, so to speak? NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg NATO and NATO Allies have to be able to do both. Both to do collective defence in Europe, to respond to a more assertive Russia and at the same time, manage crises and threats stemming from our southern neighbourhood, fighting terrorism. We cannot choose between either doing collective defence in Europe or doing crisis management, fighting terrorism beyond our borders. And that thats exactly why weve implemented the biggest adaptation of NATO since the end of the Cold War. Where we have significantly strengthened our collective defence in Europe, but at the same time stepped up the fight against terrorism with more training of local forces, enabling them to fight terrorism, for instance as we now do in Iraq with a new training mission there. This is also reflected in the way we do intelligence. We have strengthened our intelligence work, partly by establishing a new Intelligence Division, which enables us to understand, collect, analyse intelligence in a better way. And also of course work with the different national intelligence services which provide information to NATO and NATO Allies. And I think just the discussion we have about the INF and the violations of the INF Treaty highlights the importance of intelligence, to make sure that we have effective, verifiable arms control. Of course, intelligence is part of that, and therefore intelligence is something we need to address a more challenging security environment. (Natural News) You have to hand it to the Democratic Party. When it comes to blatant hypocrisy, not only are they incredibly consistent, they have an uncanny ability to lie to you with a straight face. As you likely know, Democrats have come out in full-throated support of allegations made by at least three women against Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh, despite the fact that the women themselves, as well as their charges, are not credible and their claims uncorroborated. Witnesses they have named have denied they were present during the alleged incidents, and in the case of Christine Blasey Ford, her charges are so thin and inconsistent a 25-year veteran sexual crime prosecutor said they dont even rise to the level of he said, she said. Nevertheless, Democrats have demanded everyone suspend their disbelief and heartily support Ford and the other women not because they are right or that proof is needed, but simply because they are women and thus, in the #MeToo era, should be believed outright just for making the allegation. This attitude was epitomized by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., who declared before Kavanaugh had given one word of testimony to the Senate Judiciary Committee last week to answer the charges, [W]hatever he says tomorrow, it will not change my view (about opposing his confirmation). And Ive already read Dr. Blasey Fords testimony and I believe her. Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, said something similar. The credibility is there for her. So, I believe her, she told The New York Times (and shes a member of the Judiciary Committee so constitutional advice and consent for judicial nominees is now arbitrary and not subject to factual evidence or provable information). This whole idea that the Republicans have, that women just sit around making these things up, that is not borne out by the reality, she added. Do you get that? A woman makes an allegation and so it must be believed, period sans evidence, sans corroboration, sans an investigation. But isnt that a standard Democrats have imposed just on Republicans and conservatives? Absolutely it is, and Rep. Keith Ellison, D-Minn., is proof of it. Dems lack the hypocrisy gene As The Daily Caller reports, a lawyer hired by the Minnesota Democratic Party to look into allegations of domestic abuse against Ellison who, by the way, is running to become attorney general for his state (not even kidding) is calling the accusers charges unsubstantiated. An ex-girlfriend of Ellis, Karen Monahan, a Left-wing activist, has accused him of physically and emotionally abusing her during the years they were together. The decision by the state party to conclude that the allegation is unsubstantiated, according to a version of lawyer Susan Ellingstads report obtained by The Associated Press, stems from Monahans refusal to turn over a video she says would prove her allegations. Ellingstad noted further, according to the AP, An allegation standing alone is not necessarily sufficient to conclude that conduct occurred particularly where the accusing party declines to produce supporting evidence that she herself asserts exists. Further, She has thus repeatedly placed the existence of the video front and center to her allegation, but then has refused to disclose it. So, which is it women should be believed just because they accuse, or they shouldnt sans evidence? It obviously depends on which side of the political aisle the accused stands on. If hes a conservative constitutionalist judge, hes guilty (sans evidence), but if hes a Democrat, then we not only have to have hard evidence but there has to be corroboration of same as well. Keith Ellison is being investigated by the party that endorsed his candidacy after multiple allegations of domestic violence. Any claim that this is an independent investigation is laughable, said Ellisons GOP opponent, Doug Wardlow. You know what else is laughable? The assumption that Democrats have any interest in something other than the raw pursuit of power. Read more about how Democrats have smeared Judge Kavanaugh at Smeared.news. Sources include: DailyCaller.com TheNationalSentinel.com APNews.com (ANSA) - Milan, October 3 - Italian police on Wednesday arrested 29 people in two drug trafficking gangs in Italy and Spain. Among those arrested was Santo Tucci, 62, the so-called 'jail killer'. Some 219 kg of cocaine was seized as well as several weapons. Cocaine was brought to Italy from Costa Rica in baskets of pineapples, police said. (Natural News) Regular readers know that weve been documenting acts of physical violence against Republicans and especially those who support POTUS Donald Trump over the past few years since he won the 2016 election. Now, just days after Natural News network founder Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, warned Republican senators of impending danger to their lives, reports on Tuesday said that two people who worked at Sen. Ted Cruzs Houston office were hospitalized after being exposed to a white powdery substance. According to Fox 26: Authorities say that two people were taken to the hospital after apparently being exposed to a white powdery substance at Senator Cruzs office located at the Phoenix Tower on 3200 SW Fwy on Tuesday morning. The entire 9th floor of the Phoenix Tower was evacuated at 11:56 am on Tuesday. HFD HazMat responded to the scene to determine the nature of the substance. All tests were negative for any hazardous substance, and an evacuation order was lifted at 12:41 a.m. Tuesday. The FBI announced that they are now taking over the investigation into the incident. Later Tuesday, Fox News and other media reported that at least two packages that tested positive for the poison ricin were detected before they made their way inside the building. The two identified packages were mailed to Defense Secretary James Mattis and U.S Navy Adm. John Richardson, the services top officer. As of this writing, no motive has yet been announced. On Monday, the Pentagon Force Protection Agency detected a suspicious substance during mail screening at the Pentagons remote screening facility, Col. Rob Manning said in a statement to the news network. All USPS mail received at the Pentagon mail screening facility yesterday is currently under quarantine and poses no threat to Pentagon personnel. As for the Cruz incident, the Houston Fire Dept. said all tests on the substance came back negative, but as Fox News Todd Starnes noted in a tweet, And now an attack at a Cruz campaign office in Houston. http://bit.ly/2DO3jY7 The Democrats have unleashed their minions on good and decent people. (Related: SHOCK poll: One-in-three Americans see a SECOND civil war coming thanks to Alt-Left violence.) And now an attack at a Cruz campaign office in Houston. https://t.co/WSeiKiPyhK The Democrats have unleashed their minions on good and decent people. toddstarnes (@toddstarnes) October 2, 2018 The warnings were clear On Sunday, Adams wrote that, based on threat indicators and emerging trends toward violence, the lives of conservative U.S. lawmakers and Supreme Court justices were increasingly coming under threat as Left-wing groups like Antifa and others become increasingly unhinged and violent: Never forget the rifle assault by a deranged leftist that targeted conservative U.S. lawmakers on a softball field, injuring Rep. Steve Scalise (and nearly killing him). Also do not forget the violent physical assault on Sen. Rand Paul by his unhinged Democrat neighbor. A series of developments bear out Adams warning: The recent doxxing of GOP senators on the Judiciary Committee, reportedly by someone within Congress using a House computer who reports have said is linked to California Democrat Maxine Waters office, revealing their home addresses; Editors of Left-wing websites are now calling for home invasions and assaults of Republican lawmakers (ill-advised, to say the least); Angry mob confrontations against Republicans and Trump Cabinet members when they are caught in public trying to have a meal (Maxine Waters did call for this to occur); Democratic Socialists (Marxists) are rife within the federal government, as noted by Project Veritasrecent series of videos outing members of the Deep State (all of whom are anti-Trump and anti-Constitution). Whats driving this Left-wing violence, aside from irrational hatred, is that those responsible are not paying a heavy enough price for their incitement. People found to be violating their oaths in government should be fired and, if doing something improper, prosecuted. Mobs need to be arrested. Harassment and especially violence should be met with legal remedies. Because if not, this devolves into something far worse, as Adams has predicted. Read more about the Lefts rising level of violence at Violence.news. Sources include: FoxNews.com NewsTarget.com TheNationalSentinel.com AllNewsPipeline.com (Natural News) The fruits of the mangabeira (Hancornia speciosa Gomes) plant, a fruit plant species native to Brazil, have been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of ulcers, tuberculosis, and inflammatory disorders. In a study published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, it was found that the fruit extract of mangabeira could be used to treat inflammatory problems. For the study, researchers from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte in Brazil examined the anti-inflammatory properties and bioactive compounds of the aqueous extract of the fruits of mangabeira. After producing an aqueous extract of the mangabeira fruits, they conducted a phytochemical analysis of the mangabeira fruit extract. Then, they assessed the extract and its bioactive compounds effect on inflammation. To do this, they gave the mangabeira aqueous fruit extract to mice models with xylol-induced ear edema, carrageenan-induced peritonitis, and zymosan-induced air pouch. The phytochemical analysis revealed that the mangabeira fruit extract contains chlorogenic acid and rutin. The treatment with the mangabeira fruit aqueous extract of, as well as chlorogenic acid and rutin, substantially inhibited the xylol-induced ear edema. Cell migration in the carrageenan-induced peritonitis and zymosan-induced air pouch models were also reduced. In addition, the levels of cytokines were also reduced. These findings indicate that the bioactive compounds chlorogenic acid and rutin may play an essential role in managing inflammation, contributing to the anti-inflammatory effect of mangabeira fruit extract. Supplements that fight inflammation Inflammation can occur as a result of trauma, illness, and stress. It can also be caused by unhealthy foods and lifestyle habits. Together with exercise, good sleep, and stress management, eating anti-inflammatory foods can help fight inflammation. (Related: 10 Anti-Inflammatory Foods for a Healthy Body.) The following are some foods that help fight inflammation: Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines Fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and collards Nuts, such as almonds and walnuts Olive oil Tomatoes Getting extra support from supplements may be helpful in some cases. Here are some anti-inflammatory supplements you can try: Alpha-lipoic acid Alpha-lipoic acid, a fatty acid produced by the body, is essential in metabolism and energy production. It is also an antioxidant, which means that it can reduce inflammation and may improve symptoms of certain diseases. The recommended dosage for alpha-lipoic acid supplements is 300 to 600 milligrams (mg) each day. Alpha-lipoic acid, a fatty acid produced by the body, is essential in metabolism and energy production. It is also an antioxidant, which means that it can reduce inflammation and may improve symptoms of certain diseases. The recommended dosage for alpha-lipoic acid supplements is 300 to 600 milligrams (mg) each day. Curcumin A component of turmeric, curcumin can reduce inflammation in many diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer. The recommended dosage for curcumin is 100 to 500 mg daily when taken with piperine. A component of turmeric, curcumin can reduce inflammation in many diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer. The recommended dosage for curcumin is 100 to 500 mg daily when taken with piperine. Fish oil Fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids which can reduce inflammation associated with various diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The recommended dosage for fish oil supplements is 1 to 1.5 grams daily. Fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids which can reduce inflammation associated with various diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The recommended dosage for fish oil supplements is 1 to 1.5 grams daily. Ginger Ginger supplements contain gingerol and zingerone, which may decrease the inflammation associated with colitis, kidney damage, diabetes, and breast cancer. It can also reduce muscle pain and soreness after exercise. The recommended dosage for ginger supplements is one gram daily. Ginger supplements contain gingerol and zingerone, which may decrease the inflammation associated with colitis, kidney damage, diabetes, and breast cancer. It can also reduce muscle pain and soreness after exercise. The recommended dosage for ginger supplements is one gram daily. Resveratrol Resveratrol, an antioxidant, is found in red wine, peanuts, grapes, blueberries, and other purple-colored fruits. Resveratrol supplements may decrease several inflammatory markers in people with heart disease, insulin resistance, gastritis, and ulcerative colitis. The recommended dosage for resveratrol supplements is 150 to 500 mg daily. Resveratrol, an antioxidant, is found in red wine, peanuts, grapes, blueberries, and other purple-colored fruits. Resveratrol supplements may decrease several inflammatory markers in people with heart disease, insulin resistance, gastritis, and ulcerative colitis. The recommended dosage for resveratrol supplements is 150 to 500 mg daily. Spirulina A type of blue-green algae, spirulina contains powerful antioxidant properties. Its antioxidant content can reduce inflammation and may improve symptoms of certain diseases. Supplementation with spirulina may also result in healthier aging and may boost the immune system. The recommended dosage for spirulina is one to eight grams per day. Read more news stories and studies on healing foods like mangabeira by going to Fruits.news. Sources include: Science.news Health.Harvard.edu Healthline.com (Natural News) Have you ever wanted to spend over $55,000 to learn all about how racist and unequal American society is, only to realize in the end that you just wasted four years of your life? Well then you may want to consider enrolling at Merrimack College in Massachusetts, where you can get a degree in you guessed it social justice. Our social justice program offers majors the chance to turn their passion for change, human rights and a more just world into a career, reads a description of the major. As a social justice major, you will receive the knowledge to prepare for advocacy and human-rights work within local community organizations and national and international non-governmental organizations like the United Nations. You will develop a strong theoretical understanding of ideas of social justice and participate in real-world learning in the field. In case youre still not convinced that a social justice major at Merrimack College is for you, then perhaps the schools website can convince you otherwise. In addition to providing students with a flexible program and hands-on learning, the website also mentions that social justice majors will get to experience Annual Social Justice week so that they can get involved in on-campus initiatives to address inequality. (Related: Google has abandoned tech innovation to address social justice issues.) If youre wondering what Social Justice Week is, just know that its something that Merrimack started back in the year 2013 to expose students to social justice issues. Events include various speakers, workshops, student artwork, photography and poster sessions throughout campus to provoke questions and conversations. In all seriousness, why anyone would want to major in social justice is truly beyond comprehension. Its like majoring in gender studies or feminist theory it may make students feel as though they are standing for something or bringing about change, but at the end of the day, theres just no money to be made in it. Students will be spending over $55,000 for the degree and then get absolutely nothing out of it. There are literally hundreds of examples of colleges and universities across the country creating majors and providing certain incentives in order to create a new generation of leftists and social justice warriors. At Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, the student housing department recently started a social justice advocate program which, according to the official job description, will advance the principles of diversity, multiculturalism, social identity development, and of course, social justice. (Related: Sorry, social justice warriors: political correctness has reached its peak.) The university has stated that social justice advocates will earn a starting pay of $8.00 per hour, which translates to $148 per week at 18.5 scheduled work hours. Social justice advocates can also request up to 20 hours per week and earn a total of $160 per week. One has to wonder, though, if their earnings will be redistributed to the other students on campus you know, in the name of equality and such. It really is a shame that so many students are being persuaded into dedicating their time and money into something as silly as social justice activism. Its even more of a shame that these types of left-wing subjects are starting to be taught just as much and in some cases, more than traditional subjects like American literature and U.S. history. The goal of Americans public education system should be to prepare students for the future and make it so that they have the highest chances of success possible; the goal of the education system should not be to create a generation of political activists and social justice warriors. Sources include: TruthRevolt.org TheCollegeFix.com Another Bay Area city appears poised to put the brakes on electric scooters, at least for the time being. The Campbell City Council on Tuesday evening was expected to approve a temporary ban on the scooters. One of the complaints is that people dump them just about anywhere they please when they're done using them, often blocking a sidewalk or a street. The scooters were first seen in San Francisco, then Oakland and San Jose. Now, the electric scooters from companies like Bird and Lime are parked on the sidewalks of downtown Campbell too. While some residents find them convenient and aren't put off by their abundance, others are concerned about the scooters being a hindrance or safety issue. Mayor Paul Resnikoff says the scooters started showing up in Campbell about a month ago, and people have been complaining about users riding motorized scooters on sidewalks and abandoned scooters left lying on sidewalks, in the street, driveways, and even front yards. The city is also concerned about riders not wearing safety helmets. The mayor says city officials understand the benefits of the scooters but want to make sure theyre being used safely. No deadline has been set for when the city plans to come up with regulations or permit requirements for the scooters, but Resnikoff hopes it will be soon. A Bay Area man linked to a white supremacist group was arrested Tuesday for his alleged role in last year's deadly rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. Federal agents arrested 24-year-old Evan White of Clayton. White is one of four California men accused of participating in the torch-lit march and assaulting counter-protesters at the Unite the Right Rally in Charlottesville. Authorities said the men were part of an organized militant group named the Rise Above Movement. Last year, White was forced to resign from a Top Dog restaurant in Berkeley after a Twitter account outed him for allegedly taking part in the rally. NBC Bay Area spoke to White's neighbor in Clayton, who said he woke up to see agents raiding White's house and his car. The neighbor said seeing federal agents raiding White's home was "really shocking." A United States attorney described the men who participated in the march as "serial rioters" who also took part in violent rallies last year in Huntington Beach and Berkeley. The men each face 10 years in prison if convicted. The Alameda County District Attorney's Office has filed felony charges against an Alameda County Sheriff sergeant for illegally recording juvenile suspects in custody, which led to the case being thrown out. District Attorney Nancy O'Malley announced Wednesday that her office filed four charges against Sgt. James Russell after he was recorded on his bodycam saying he secretly recorded in-custody juvenile suspects and their attorney in an interview room at the Eden Township Sheriff's substation on March 15. Every one of us working in the justice system must be held to the highest of standards when it comes to protecting an individuals constitutional rights, including the sacrosanct right to privileged communication between a client and his or her attorney, O'Malley said in a statement. The District Attorney's Office threw out a case against one juvenile suspect after it was revealed Russell recorded at least one confidential conversation between him and Public Defender. The Alameda County district attorney's office is also reviewing every juvenile criminal case submitted by the sheriff's office this year. In the video from his bodycam, Russell says several conversations between suspects and their attorneys have been recorded but no one has listened to them. He also discusses the video recording of a juvenile in an attempted robbery case the one that the district attorney has thrown out with Lt. Timothy Schellenberg, who oversees the sheriff's investigations unit out of a detention center in San Leandro. Prosecutors turned over the body-camera video and the video of the juvenile with his attorney to the public defender's office as evidence in a recent criminal case, court documents show. Secretly recording a conversation between a person in custody and the person's attorney is a felony under California law. These felony charges are completely appropriate, and we're glad the district attorney is taking this seriously," Alameda County Public Defender Brendon Woods said in a statement. "In order for us to represent our clients effectively, our clients have to know that they can trust us, and that what they tell us will remain confidential and that law enforcement is not secretly listening to our conversations. Hopefully these charges against Sgt. Russell will send a message and deter other police officers from violating attorney-client privilege. What to Know Some wildfire victims say their safes and contents were completely destroyed by heat and flames UL and the American Society for Testing and Materials caution against safe manufacturers using the term "fireproof" Even if your safe is marketed as "fireproof", it may not be able to withstand fire that burns for more than an hour Despite what their labels say, some safes marketed as "fireproof" can melt. It's a disappointing discovery made by several California wildfire victims while sifting through the debris of their homes after the flames were extinguished. Among them is Mike Cobb. A year after the North Bay fires, Cobb is rebuilding his home. "I was lucky to get out with our family, our dogs, and our cats, but none of our possessions," Cobb said. He lost everything -- including two safes, which he figured were fireproof. "Both of them just completely disintegrated," Cobb said. "You couldn't recognize it. It was basically just the bottom that I could tell was the safe. The top was just crumbly material." Sam Brinkerhoff says she also lost her safe in the fires. She had believed it was fireproof. "It was supposed to be," she said. "It melted." Searching for safes online, NBC Bay Area found many are marketed as fireproof. Exactly what that term means is unclear. The U.S. Fire Administration and National Institute of Standards do not define or regulate the term "fireproof." Seven U.S. safe distributors that advertise fireproof safes provided five different definitions of the term, including an Arizona company that follows a Swedish definition; a South Carolina distributor using Chinese criteria; and a Texas seller adhering to a Korean benchmark. Some safe makers indicate their products meet a UL standard. That's Underwriters Laboratory, a Chicago firm whose engineers conduct safety tests on everything from microwave ovens to patio doors. UL pushes products to their limits, and that includes "fireproof" safes. UL demonstrates in a video (below) how it grades safes and vaults, using a massive furnace that heats up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit: Safes that survive the process can earn a UL seal. But UL told NBC Bay Area such safes should be labeled "fire resistant," not "fireproof." It said most consumer-grade safes are only rated for between 30 and 60 minutes of fire resistance. Exposure to fire for an hour or less is ample time for many house fires, when firefighters are able to respond quickly. But in wildfires, entire neighborhoods can ignite, overwhelming fire crews. Homes can burn much longer, like Cobb's and Brinkerhoff's likely did, melting their "fireproof" safes. "Even though it says 'fireproof', it's fireproof for a kitchen fire or something," Brinkerhoff said. "Not for the fire that came through here." Should you trust the word "fireproof?" The American Society for Testing and Materials says no. It sets standards for many products and calls "fireproof" an "inappropriate and misleading term." "You want to do research," Cobb says. When buying a safe, consumers may want to ask the manufacturer how long its models can withstand a fire. Then, check if their fire evacuation plan should include a few seconds, if it's safe, to take irreplaceable items out of their safe. "I now realize how much I didn't know," Cobb said. "It was not fireproof ... it is, but only to a certain point." Parents in Livermore are terrified and heartbroken after hearing that two teenagers overdosed in the past two days. Police believe the deaths of a Oceana Breeze Muth, 16, and Justin William Miles, 18, were opioid overdoses, and investigators are now trying to figure out where the drugs came from and if the two cases are connected. "Clearly we need our kids not to experiment, not to dabble in things they dont know what they are," Livermore police Lt. John Hurd said. Miles is the stepson of Dilbert creator Scott Adams, who announced the death on social media Monday. Miles' mother, Shelly Adams, said her son was a great kid, and they did everything they could to protect him from street drugs. She said she doesn't want another parent to go through the pain and heartache she is enduring. Miles died Sunday, and the 16-year-old girl from Granada High School overdosed Monday, police said. They are trying to figure out where the kids got the drugs and if the cases are linked. "If there was the same person that gave whatever it is these kids took, then we could find the source and deal with that, but its way too early," Hurd said. "Its very frightening and seems very out of our control, and the only thing we know how to do is to communicate with our children," parent Allison Miano said. Another parent, Angelica Magpusao, says shes learned drug use is rampant at both of the citys high schools. She says her Livermore High school son has been offered a slew of drugs including what the kids call Xanax bars. "This is not your prescription Xanax; this is street Xanax, pressed with fentanyl and other substances," Magpusao said. "My fear is we're going to have more dead students. My fear is nothing being done." San Francisco District Attorney George Gascon on Tuesday announced he will not seek re-election in 2019. Gascon assumed the office after now Sen. Kamala Harris left eight years ago. He said his 90-year-old mother's weakening health was the determining factor to not running for a third term. Before he became district attorney, Gascon served a year as San Francisco's chief of police. Gascon provided the following statement: The past eight years as your District Attorney have been some of the most professionally rewarding years of my life. You trusted me to lead our work on criminal justice reform and public safety, and I have been humbled to serve you. We have accomplished so much together. I was fortunate to assume the office after Senator Kamala Harris. Her smart on crime approach resonated with me and mirrored my reasons for accepting the role. I have worked hard to bring meaningful improvements and reforms to the office. With your help, we cut the homicide rate in half. Violent crime is down across the city and we have made needed progress to reduce property crime. With the help of the men and women in my office, we created the Crime Strategies Unit a unit focused on stopping the most prolific criminals using crime analysis tools and data, and the Independent Investigations Bureau created to help investigate and prosecute illegal use of force by law enforcement. In addition to these important crime fighting efforts, we created the nations first Young Adult Court focused on helping eighteen to twenty-five-year-old offenders turn their lives around. Against the tide of nearly all prosecutors around the state, we also took the lead in proactively dismissing old marijuana convictions. This leadership encouraged many DAs to join our effort and resulted in state legislation that will help people erase their old convictions which will allow them to find employment and housing and improve their own lives and their community. The job of District Attorney is an enormous responsibility. It requires doing the right thing, even when it is unpopular, perhaps especially when it is unpopular. To do it well requires a serious commitment of time and energy. I have been able to do that because of the support of my family. The women in my life have made countless sacrifices for my career. My amazing wife Fabiola, whose energy and support inspires my every move; my daughters - the pride of my life; and my mother, a true warrior who nourished my development and growth in every conceivable way, are the most important people in my world. I recognize that without these strong women in my life, and my late father, who gave up so much for me, I would not be a fraction of the man I am today. Every achievement, every accomplishment, I owe to their unwavering love and support. I have asked so much of them over the years. After two successful elections, I began preparation for a third full term. Knowing full well what is involved in running a winning campaign, my mothers weakened health weighed heavily on my mind. She is ninety years old and has much greater needs than when I took office. I am her only child and have the responsibility to be there for her. It became clear that launching a re-election campaign would not be compatible with taking care of her adequately in this moment of need. As her son, I must meet that obligation. There is no acceptable alternative. At this time, I simply cannot be the son I want to be and seek a third term. My career means a great deal to me. But success in the world with a family in chaos is not a choice I am willing to make. It is difficult to step away, especially when we are experiencing so much success and progress. I am flattered by the robust and diverse support for my campaign and it will be hard to walk away from that. But, at this time in my life, it is the only choice I am certain I can live with. I will fulfill the last year of my term and then allow the voters to choose my successor. I am honored to be your District Attorney. I look forward to completing my term and to a continued role in public service. I hope and expect whoever is the next District Attorney of San Francisco will continue these efforts and carry forward the legacy of the great work done in this office. Whoever it is will have my full support in the transition. Thank you for your continued support as my family and I navigate this next phase. (ANSA) - Brussels, October 3 - Italy's League/Five Star government is Euroskeptic and xenophobic, European Economic Affairs Commissioner Pierre Moscovici said Wednesday. "Like the Hungarians, also the Italians have opted for a decidedly Euroskeptic and xenophobic government which, on migrant and budget issues, is trying to get out of European obligations," he said. Moscovici was addressing a conference at the OECD's Paris HQ. Moscovici is "talking through his hat" because there is "no racism or xenophobia in Italy," Interior Minister Matteo Salvini, head of the anti-migrant League party, said Wednesday. "Moscovici is talking through his hat, there's no racism or xenophobia in Italy, but finally a government chosen by citizens which has blocked migrant smugglers and shut the ports to clandestines," said the deputy premier. "We are fed up of the insults coming from Paris and Brussels". The Holy Trinity Church in San Jose held a listening session by San Jose Bishop Patrick McGrath Tuesday brought on by revelations of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church. In the second event of its kind, the bishop encouraged victims and their families to tell their stories. "There has been a systemic environment of a good old boy fraternity, lets sweep this under the rug, and move so-and-so around," said Cathy Randazzo whose brother was abused. Bishop McGrath said this is just phase one of the churchs efforts to deal with the stories of sexual abuse. "It was very informative for me, painful at times to hear the stories of the victims and families and friends," McGrath said. He said he also plans to release the names of every priest credibly accused and will conduct an independent examination of the allegations and how they were handled. "People have lost faith in the institution, I hope they have not lost faith in Jesus the Christ," McGrath said. The listening session comes on the same day a Los Angeles-based organization filed a lawsuit accusing bishops across California of a cover up. Bishop McGrath and the bishops of San Francisco, Oakland and Santa Rosa are named as well as the Archbishop of San Francisco, among others. "The diocese has a lot to do, the Catholic Church has a lot to do," said Randazzo, "I dont think they satisfied anybody." New FBI data show San Francisco has the highest property crime rate among Americas most populated cities, but there could be a silver lining to the report. The FBI numbers go through 2017, and this year, things appear to be turning around. Residents, meantime, don't have to be reminded that a spike car break-ins has contributed greatly to the property crime rating. Resident Anna Lee, who walks dogs near Alamo Square, said the sight of broken glass in the street isn't as common as it used to be. "Three or four times a morning, I would be walking in the neighborhood, and Id see a car and glass broken," Lee said. Concentrated campaigns have helped stem the break-in epidemic. But not before San Francisco jumped to the top spot in the country for property crime rate in 2017, according to the FBI's annual crime report. The City by the Bay recorded 6,168 property crimes per 100,000 people, or about 150 property crimes a day, in 2017. Officer Giselle Linnane says the data shapes the departments strategy and led to the creation of a General Crimes Unit. "You know, the numbers are the numbers," Linnane said. "And that is something that we ourselves are constantly trying to look at. What (the General Crimes Unit) does, and allows, is for us to have a bigger picture. Seeing whats going on around the city. Because, while we do share information, what weve noticed is that a lot of these crimes are being conducted by the same people." Max Szabo, with the District Attorneys Office, says sometimes the changes are more obvious month-to-month. After smashing records, San Francisco consistently sees a drop of 15-20 percent, he said. "When weve indicted individuals for multiple auto burglaries I mean 8, 9, 10, which is difficult to do because we have to build bigger cases to show that they actually committed all those crimes we actually see a dip in the numbers, overnight," Szabo said. The number peaked at 20 percent down, but Szabo says car break-ins always spike in the summer. The $7 billion 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund is running out of money, its administrator said Wednesday. NBC News reported that the fund's special master, Rupa Bhattacharyya, said in a statement in the Federal Register that the funds "may be insufficient to compensate all claims." The fund expects to receive more than 6,500 claims on top of the 32,689 it had received by last year, Bhattacharyya said. Five New York lawmakers, including both senators, called this week for more congressional funding to the fund. More than 2,000 people are estimated to have died from illnesses linked to the response to the Sept. 11 attacks. The Zadroga Act set aside $7.3 billion to compensate the victims and relatives of the dead. Columbus Day weekend is historically a very popular time to seek out the best fall color that New England has to offer. While foliage is running about one to two weeks late so far this year, due in part to mild weather conditions, many locations will be approaching peak color this weekend. Without question the best color will be found in Northern New England, but even in Southern New England pops of color are developing. Here is a breakdown of where youll find colorful leaves dotting the landscape. MAINE Moderate color right now encompasses most of Northern and Central Maine. By this weekend, expect many of these locations to be reaching peak color. Low color, meaning youll find about one-third of the trees turning, can be found all along the coast. For the best viewing take a drive alone Route 201, also known as the Old Canada Road Scenic Byway. NEW HAMPSHIRE Moderate color, meaning about half to three-quarters of the trees have changed, can be found through most of Central and Northern New Hampshire. These areas will start reaching peak by the weekend. Low to moderate color is currently common along and south of I-89. For the best viewing take a drive along the Kancamagus Highway, also known as Route 112. Another option is Route 16, especially from Conway northward into Coos County. VERMONT Widespread moderate color has emerged in the Northeast Kingdom, and up and down the spine of the Green Mountains into Central and Southern Vermont. These are the areas that will near peak by the weekend. Low to moderate color is right now being reported in the Champlain Valley. A drive along Route 5 in Northeastern Vermont will offer stunning views. A drive along the north-south Route 100 will also bring plenty of color within view. MASSACHUSETTS Most of Massachusetts is now reporting low color, excluding far southeastern parts of the state where things are still mostly green. Pops of moderate color will continue to develop in Western Massachusetts, especially in parts of Berkshire and Franklin Counties, into the weekend. Passing over the French King Bridge, which carries Route 2A across the Connecticut River, is one option for spying some midseason color. RHODE ISLAND While much of the state is still green, pockets of low color are now emerging north and west of Providence. CONNECTICUT Foliage across much of the state is still green, but low color continues to develop through parts of the Litchfield Hills across to Northeastern Connecticut. The Chicago Cubs lost in extra innings to the Colorado Rockies, ending their season and opening up a Pandora's box of questions about the future of the franchise. The Cubs tied things up in the eighth inning, but after a Tony Wolters single off of Kyle Hendricks in the 13th inning, they couldn't pull back even and have been eliminated from the postseason. The Rockies will now move on and battle the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Division Series. The Rockies got on the board in the first inning with a sacrifice fly from Nolan Arenado, but were unable to score again until the 13th inning, when Wolters singled to drive in the go-ahead run to make it a 2-1 game. The Cubs had a chance to tie it in the 13th, but when Albert Almora Jr. struck out, the Cubs were eliminated from the postseason, and the Rockies were heading to Milwaukee. What to Know Van Dyke is charged with murder in the shooting death of 17-year-old McDonald nearly four years ago The Chicago police officer was captured on dashcam video shooting McDonald 16 times the night of Oct. 20, 2014, on the city's Southwest Side Van Dyke entered a plea of not guilty NBC Chicago will offer a live stream with complete coverage beginning right here. NOTE: Not all witness testimony will be available for streaming will not appear on camera. You may notice intermittent bars and pauses. Defense attorneys for Jason Van Dyke rested their case Wednesday, one day after the Chicago police officer who fatally shot Laquan McDonald took the stand in his own murder trial. Within seconds of court starting, the defense rested and prosecutors began calling rebuttal witnesses. Minutes later, both prosecution and defense rebuttal testimony ended. Closing arguments are set to begin Thursday. In the nearly three weeks of trial so far, the defense has called more than 17 witnesses, including Van Dyke himself, as they argue McDonald, a black teenager armed with a knife, posed a threat when Van Dyke, a white officer, opened fire on him. Attorneys have said that Van Dyke never should have been charged with murder because of an Illinois law that protects peace officers trying to arrest fleeing felons. Van Dyke was charged with first-degree murder more than a year after he shot McDonald on the city's Southwest Side. He entered a plea of not guilty. The shooting prompted massive protests across the city and catapulted Chicago into the national spotlight. Special prosecutors rested their case against Van Dyke Thursday after calling 24 witnesses over three and a half days. Follow along live from the courtroom below: 10:15 a.m.: Following tomorrows closing arguments, the jury will receive their instructions and then begin deliberating the fate of Jason Van Dyke. 10:11a.m.: Prosecution and Defense complete rebuttal witness testimony in Jason Van Dyke trial. Closing arguments scheduled for tomorrow morning. 10:09 a.m.: During cross examination, defense attorney Dan Herbert points out that its the policy for Cook County sheriffs to render aid. But Murphy did not that evening. Herbert then pointed out that its CPDs policy not to render CPR to victims because they are not trained medical personnel. 10:06 a.m: First rebuttal witness called is Adam Murphy, a Cook County Police Officer who testified back on Sept 18th that heard Laquan McDonalds last gasp of air. Hes now back on the stand, testifying about the amount of blood he saw on the ground that night. 9:58 a.m.: The defense rests in the Jason Van Dyke murder trial. Up next, the prosecution will call rebuttal witnesses RECAP OF THE TRIAL A California lawsuit was announced Tuesday naming a priest who retired from Chicago in 1973 and moved to the West Coast and allegedly abused young men there. The suit was announced as Cardinal Blase Cupich revealed a new audit for the Chicago Archdiocese. At the same time, the original members of the National Lay Review Board spoke out on bishop accountability. Former federal prosecutor Bob Bennett was in Chicago, who lead the first Lay Review Board for the Catholic Church back in 2002, reacted to the current crisis surrounding how Cardinal Theodore McCarrick was promoted over the years, despite allegations of sexual misconduct. "The layman's voice is not heard," Bennett said. Former FBI agent Kathleen McChesney was also on the first review board. "All bishops report to Rome, in the same way all roads lead to Rome," she said. Bennett and McCarrick were close friends. Bennett said he was unaware of the sexual misconduct allegations surrounding McCarrick. "It now appears that the hierarchy or many in the structure of the Vatican knew about his activities," he said. On WTTW Monday night, Cupich announced a new audit for the Chicago Archdiocese. An outside expert will review the archdiocese's files and review the history of it's handled the allegations. "Just to double check," Cupich said. Bennett said he supports ordaining women as priests and making celibacy voluntary. "They're a bunch of old men like me and they don't like change," he said. "They don't like reform." As Bennett sees it, the church's future depends on whether those in the pews are heard. "The laity is starting to say, the heck with those guys over in Rome, my relationship with God, (which) is why I go to church," he said. As the Illinois Attorney General opens a new state-wide investigation into the files on priest sex abuse, Cupich says the archdiocese has nothing to hide and pledges cooperation. What to Know Doctors say 9-year-old child has a tumor crushing her heart and lungs and that she went into cardiac arrest and stopped breathing. Doctors were able to restart her heart after 60 minutes of CPR; tests showed child was brain dead and hospital wants to remove life support. Child's parents are holding out hope for a miracle and ask that their daughter be moved to another facility to continue care. A Tarrant County judge issued a 14-day temporary restraining order Monday that prevents Cook Children's Hospital in Fort Worth from removing a 9-year-old girl from a ventilator days after being declared brain dead. Doctors at the hospital had planned to remove Payton Summons from life support at noon Monday, against the wishes of her parents who are holding out hope for a miracle that their daughter will recover and regain consciousness. Summons Family The couple's attorney, Justin Moore, said the delay was necessary to allow the family time to find another medical facility willing to keep Payton alive. "It's the best news since everything happened," said Payton's mother, Tiffany Hofstetter. "There was a huge weight taken off my shoulders and I actually felt like I could breathe." Hofstetter's daughter was brought to Cook Children's Hospital on Sept. 25 after she suddenly went into cardiac arrest and stopped breathing. Doctors were eventually able to revive her heartbeat. But they said her brain, which went without oxygen for more than an hour, suffered serious damage -- and she was no longer able to breathe on her own. She has been on life support ever since. Summons has cancer, with a tumor that cut off her circulation, according to hospital attorney Laura Copeland, who added the tumor was crushing the girl's heart and lungs. "As is standard practice, we conducted a brain death exam on Payton approximately 24 hours after she was admitted to our hospital," a spokesperson for Cook Children's said Monday in a written statement. "The results were conclusive and showed zero brain activity, confirming that Payton is brain dead ... Our hearts are with Payton's family and we will continue doing everything in our power to help them through this difficult time." Tuesday, Moore notified Cook Children's Hospital that Payton's parents revoked their consent for the hospital to speak to the media about Payton's condition, a hospital spokesperson said. "Unfortunately, this means that we are no longer able to provide detailed, factual information regarding this case," the statement read. "Were disappointed that the family has revoked their authorization because we believe that accurate information facilitates fair, balanced and informed reporting." Doctors at Cook Children's Hospital in Fort Worth say a 9-year-old girl is brain dead after suffering cardiac arrest last week and plan to remove her from life support Monday. Her parents are holding out hope and have filed a TRO and are asking for more time for their child. In a Monday statement, Moore said, "As is their right under the Texas Advance Directives Act, they should be provided the time and opportunity to find another facility that will allow for continued care of Payton while she slowly recovers. They simply want to give their child a fighting chance. Far too often, we have seen medical facilities choose profits over care for patients. Paytons predicament falls in line with this misguided, cold and callous practice of hospitals worried about overhead, instead of the natural lives of its patients. No young child should be treated like this." Moore said doctors told the parents on Thursday that their daughter was brain dead, meeting the state's legal definition of death even though her heart still beats. Summons Family "So you have folks saying their child is dead, when they think she's alive," said Moore. "The fact that they think she can recover, they don't believe she's brain dead." "Our physicians and nurses were able to revive her heartbeat, but they were unsuccessful in resuscitating her breathing," the hospital statement said. The cardiac arrest had caused "a devastating injury to her brain due to being without oxygen for over an hour," the statement said. On Monday, Copeland told the judge: "There is no facility, there is no phone call that could be made, there is no place that will take her. She is dead. It is very traumatic for the staff to have to do things for a patient they know is dead." The hospital said the Texas Advance Directives Act allows a hospital after a 10-day waiting period to discontinue life-sustaining treatment on a patient once that patient's doctors determine that continuing treatment would be "futile." Moore, however, said Payton's parents have not given up. Summons Family Cook Children's said it does not believe the law applies to Payton's specific case because she had already been declared brain dead. Still, they issued a statement Monday afternoon saying they would comply with the judge's TRO and that Payton would receive the best possible care while in their facility. Cook Childrens will comply with Judge Wilkinsons order to maintain Payton on ventilator support to allow her family time to explore whether she can be transported to another facility. During that time, we will hold off on performing the second brain death examination. The purpose of the second exam is to provide an independent examination to confirm the first test that showed zero brain activity which, under Texas law, means that Payton is considered brain dead. Our physicians and nurses will continue to administer the best possible care for Payton. In addition, our staff will assist Paytons family and their attorney in their effort to get her transferred to another facility. We respect the effort of Paytons family to do what they believe is best for their child. We experience this kind of parental passion every day and always work alongside the parents. The hospital previously noted it reached out to two other area hospitals to see if they'd be willing to accept her as a patient -- but both hospitals denied the transfer "because they agreed there was nothing additional they could do for Payton." State District Judge Melody Wilkinson has scheduled a Friday morning hearing to reconsider the order after further developments. Check back and refresh this page for the latest update. In response to a U.N. court order that the U.S. lift sanctions on Iran, the Trump administration said Wednesday it was terminating a decades-old treaty affirming friendly relations between the two countries. The move is a largely symbolic gesture that highlights deteriorating relations between Washington and Tehran. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said withdrawing from the 1955 Treaty of Amity was long overdue and followed Iran "groundlessly" bringing a complaint with the International Court of Justice challenging U.S. sanctions on the basis that they were a violation of the pact. Meanwhile, national security adviser John Bolton said the administration also was pulling out of an amendment to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations that Iran or others, notably the Palestinians, could use to sue the U.S. at The Hague-based tribunal. Bolton told reporters at the White House that the provision violates U.S. sovereignty. "The United States will not sit idly by as baseless politicized claims are brought against us," Bolton said. He cited a case brought to the court by the "so-called state of Palestine" challenging the move of the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem as the main reason for withdrawing. Bolton, who last month unleashed a torrent of criticism against the International Criminal Court, noted that previous Republican administrations had pulled out of various international agreements and bodies over "politicized cases." He said the administration would review all accords that might subject the U.S. to prosecution by international courts or panels. Earlier, Pompeo denounced the Iranian case before the U.N. court as "meritless" and said the Treaty of Amity was meaningless and absurd. "The Iranians have been ignoring it for an awfully long time, we ought to have pulled out of it decades ago," he told reporters at the State Department. The little-known treaty with Iran was among numerous such ones signed in the wake of World War II as the Truman and Eisenhower administrations tried to assemble a coalition of nations to counter the Soviet Union. Like many of the treaties, this one was aimed at encouraging closer economic relations and regulating diplomatic and consular ties. Its first article reads: "There shall be firm and enduring peace and sincere friendship between the United States of America and Iran." The treaty survived the 1979 overthrow of the Shah in Iran's Islamic revolution and the subsequent hostage crisis that crippled American-Iranian relations for decades. But amid a broader push to assert U.S. sovereignty in the international arena and after pulling out of the Iran nuclear deal this year, the administration determined that the court case made the treaty irrelevant. Pompeo said the ruling was a "useful point for us to demonstrate the absolute absurdity" of the treaty. The court case is legally binding, but Pompeo said the administration would proceed with sanctions enforcement with existing exceptions for humanitarian and flight safety transactions. "The United States has been actively engaged on these issues without regard to any proceeding before the ICJ," he said. At the same time, he criticized the ruling. "We're disappointed that the court failed to recognize that it has no jurisdiction to issue any order relating to these sanctions measures with the United States." The ruling said Washington must "remove, by means of its choosing, any impediments arising from" the re-imposition of sanctions to the export to Iran of medicine and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities and spare parts and equipment necessary to ensure the safety of civil aviation. It said the exceptions mentioned by Pompeo "are not adequate to address fully the humanitarian and safety concerns" raised by Iran. The first set of sanctions that had been eased under the terms of the nuclear deal negotiated by the Obama administration was reimposed in August. A second, more sweeping set of sanctions, is set to be reimposed in early November. Iran's foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, praised the court ruling, saying on Twitter that it was "another failure for sanctions-addicted" U.S. and a "victory for rule of law." He said it was imperative for other countries 'to collectively counter malign US unilateralism" and he accused the U.S. of being an "outlaw regime." The court said the case will continue and the U.S. can still challenge its jurisdiction but no date has been set for further hearings. Lightning is believed to have caused a fire at an apartment complex in Hamden Tuesday night that displaced eight people. Crews from the Hamden Fire Department responded to the apartment complex at 22 Warner St. at 11:10 p.m. and said a heavy band of thunderstorms was moving through the area at the time and that several 911 calls came in from the residents of the apartment complex reporting a lightning strike. Firefighters found the roof smoldering and shingles displaced and charred. Two apartments sustained light damage from water and inspection holes, according to the fire department, and the five adults and three children who live in them have been moved to local emergency housing. The Connecticut Chapter of the Red Cross is assisting with temporary relocation. No one was injured. Lightning strikes are also thought to be responsible for power outages. As a precaution, United Illuminating cut power to the Warner Street complex and has restored it to the unaffected apartments, according to the fire department. PHOTOS: Severe Weather Moves Through Connecticut The Hamden fire inspector is investigating. (ANSA) - Rome, October 3 - United States Ambassador to Rome Lewis M. Eisenberg told an ANSA Forum on Wednesday that "the current government in Italy is the quintessence of democracy in action". The American diplomat added: "aside from what each one of us thinks, the recent elections in Italy showed that the people have spoken. This is democracy". Eisenberg said that the recent meeting in Washington between US President Donald Trump and Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte showed there was "chemistry and clear reciprocal understanding". "The USA and Italy have the commitment to democracy in common," he continued, stressing the "strong bilateral relations between the two countries". Eisenberg said he was hopeful Trump could help bring peace to the Middle East because he has a "high success rate in pursuing his goals". "President Trump is staying true to the objectives he had promised voters and for which he was voted in," the ambassador said. "This is a success for democracy. Trump has around 90 million followers on social media. "No American president has ever been in direct contact with 90 million people". Police in Maine need the public's help locating a woman who was last seen Sunday night in North Yarmouth. According to the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office, Kristin Westra, 47, was last seen at her family's home on Lufkin Road. "It's critical that we find her," said Captain Scott Stewart. "We are not ruling out foul play." Stewart said Westra was seen on a neighbor's security camera returning home from a jog Sunday evening. Her husband told investigators that she went to bed Sunday night. By the time he woke up early Monday, she was missing. He reported her missing to police around 9 a.m. Monday. The sheriff's office says that no known vehicle was involved and it's unclear why Westra would be missing. "She didn't have her phone, her keys, her car, or her wallet," said brother Eric Rohrbach. "We're terrified about the conditions she's in right now." Rohrbach said his sister had been stressed at work, teaching elementary school students at the Chebeague Island School and stressed at home, where her family is undergoing an expensive renovation. "She's been getting a lot of anxiety and having trouble sleeping," he said. "I'm thinking she snapped, had a break, and left. Doing this to her family means she was not in the right mind when she left." Friends have started a website, findkristin.org to help generate tips. A team of at least 50 searchers from the Maine Warden Service and investigators from Maine State Police and the Cumberland County Sheriff's Department converged on the Lufkin Road area Tuesday. They plan to search into the night and hope to deploy a search plane when rainy conditions clear. Westra is described as 5', 10" tall, 140 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact the Cumberland County Regional Communications Center at 207-893-2810. A Virginia man convicted of punching the organizer of last summer's white nationalist rally after he attempted to hold a news conference has been fined $1. Jeffrey Winder of Afton was found guilty Tuesday of misdemeanor assault and battery for a second time during an appeal trial Tuesday, news outlets reported. Prosecutors said Winder could be seen on video punching Jason Kessler, who was mobbed after he called a news conference Aug. 13, 2017, the day after the "Unite the Right" rally drew hundreds of white nationalists to Charlottesville, along with counterprotesters. A woman protesting the white nationalists was killed and dozens more were injured when a car plowed into a crowd. Kessler briefly made remarks at the news conference before a crowd began heckling him, prompting him to flee. Jurors could have sentenced Winder to up to 12 months of jail time and $2,500 in fines. They decided instead to give him a $1 fine with no jail time, The Daily Progress reported. Some jurors could be seen tearing up as their verdict was read. Kessler, who was called as a witness, said he wasn't physically hurt, but did suffer emotional trauma. "I was attacked in front of the whole world, and then people made fun of me for it," he said. Asked for comment, Winder and the prosecutor's office told TV station WVIR that the jury's sentence speaks for itself. Winder and his attorney have yet to decide if they will appeal, the TV station reported. Lawyers for two women who accuse Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct say they fear the FBI is not conducting a thorough investigation, as Republican leaders steer toward a decisive vote on the nomination this week. Attorneys for Christine Blasey Ford, who says she was sexually assaulted by Kavanaugh at a party when they were teenagers, wrote a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray asking why the FBI hasn't contacted their client after she offered to cooperate in the FBI's reopened background investigation of Kavanaugh. NBC News reported Ford was not on the bureau's current list of potential witnesses. Also Tuesday, an attorney for another accuser, Deborah Ramirez, said he's seen no indication that the FBI has reached out to any of the 20 people who Ramirez told them may be able to corroborate her account that Kavanaugh exposed himself to her when they were Yale freshmen. The attorney, John Clune, said Ramirez was interviewed by the FBI on Sunday and provided agents with the witnesses' contact numbers. Clune said he is concerned that the bureau "is not conducting or not being permitted to conduct a serious investigation." Demonstrating that the investigation is credible is crucial as the White House and Senate Republican leadership look to win the support of several wavering senators including three Republicans who will determine whether the 53-year-old conservative judge is confirmed to the lifetime post. One Republican official said he'd been told it was possible the FBI investigation could be completed as soon as Tuesday night or Wednesday morning, but it remained unclear. The official revealed the private conversations only on condition of anonymity. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told reporters that "I can tell you with certainty" that the FBI report will be finished and the Senate will vote this week, though he didn't specify when. Underscoring the GOP effort to vote on Kavanaugh quickly and stuff a cork on the chances for fresh allegations to emerge he said "it shouldn't take long" for lawmakers to read that report. "That will not be used as another reason for delay, I can tell you that," he said. Because of procedural steps, a final confirmation vote was unlikely until late in the week, perhaps over the weekend. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said he wants senators to receive an FBI briefing on its findings at least 24 hours before the chamber takes its first procedural vote on Kavanaugh, which could be midweek. McConnell has denounced Democrats, who have questioned Kavanaugh's truthfulness and temperament, for hurling "mud and muck" at the judge. A comment by President Donald Trump, who nominated Kavanaugh, spotlighted the gulf between #MeToo-era voters who've rallied against sexual abuse and conservatives who say the nominee is entitled to a presumption of innocence against uncorroborated allegations. "It's a very scary time for young men in America when you can be guilty of something that you may not be guilty of," Trump said at the White House. At a campaign rally in Mississippi later Tuesday, Trump mocked Ford's allegations against Kavanaugh. When Trump ordered the FBI investigation last week under pressure from a handful of Senate Republicans, he set a deadline of this Friday for the probe's completion. Details were scant about precisely who the FBI was interviewing and the scope of the probe, but agents are known to have interviewed at least four people. They include Mark Judge, who Ford has said was in the bedroom where, she says, a drunken Kavanaugh sexually attacked her at a 1982 high school gathering. Also interviewed were two other people Ford said were present but in a different room: Patrick "P.J." Smyth and Leland Keyser. Judge, Smyth and Keyser say they don't recall the incident described by Ford. Kavanaugh has denied the accusations by Ford and Ramirez and those by a third woman, Julie Swetnick, who has alleged she was victimized at a party attended by Kavanaugh friends. McConnell singled out Swetnick's accusations, for which he said "there conveniently happened to be zero witnesses." She is represented by Michael Avenatti, whom McConnell called a "tabloid lawyer." Avenatti also represents adult-film actress Stormy Daniels in her claim that Trump paid her for silence about an alleged 2006 affair. One undeclared senator, Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., expressed concerns about Kavanaugh's "sharp and partisan" responses to Democratic senators during last week's gripping confirmation hearing at which the nominee and Ford gave opposing accounts. A fuming Kavanaugh sparred frequently with Democrats, responding to a question by one about whether he'd ever blacked out while drinking by shooting back, "Have you?" "We can't have this on the court. We simply can't," Flake said at an event sponsored by The Atlantic magazine. Two other undeclared senators, Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, and Susan Collins, R-Maine, said they are satisfied with the scope and pace of the FBI investigation. But asked about McConnell's pledge to move forward with a vote this week, Murkowski told The Associated Press that McConnell "talked about a vote last week, too." Collins, who was riding with Murkowski on a Senate shuttle, told her colleague, "Good answer." Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., facing a competitive re-election this fall, said he's awaiting the FBI report. Meanwhile, a report released Tuesday by police in New Haven, Connecticut, says Kavanaugh was accused of throwing ice at a man during an altercation at a bar while in college. It comes as Democrats have questioned whether he has been forthright about his drinking habits in his youth. Kavanaugh was questioned after the 1985 altercation but wasn't arrested. The report says 21-year-old Dom Cozzolino told police that Kavanaugh threw ice at him for "some unknown reason." Cozzolino said he then got hit on the ear with a glass. The White House noted that Kavanaugh wasn't arrested or charged, and mocked the incident as irrelevant. What to Know Amazon announced it will raise its minimum wage to $15 an hour starting Nov. 1. Amazon is building a large fulfillment center in West Dallas with the promise of hiring 1,500 more workers. The company has said it will lobby to increase the national minimum wage. Amazon announced Tuesday it is raising its minimum wage to $15 an hour for 250,000 U.S. workers and another 100,000 holiday temporary employees. North Texans have several reasons to be pleased. The increase puts Amazon at more than twice the federal minimum wage of $7.25. The change will take effect Nov. 1. Applicants at an Amazon hiring event in Coppell were happy about the news. Aaron Jones said $15 an hour would put him in a better position than he was in the past, working other warehouse jobs. "Pay the bills. Meet your demands, and everything, yeah. It's better than what you used to be," he said. Applicant Shanikwa Williams was pleased about what would also be included from Amazon compared to the part-time work she had nearby. "Benefits, insurance, 401(k), all of that," she said. "I've been trying to see if I can get on full time." Amazon is building another large fulfillment center in West Dallas with the promise of hiring 1,500 more workers there. Dallas City Councilman Omar Narvaez said other warehouses in the area offer average starting pay of just $9.36 an hour. "That is going to be a huge jump for a lot of families," Narvaez said. He said he expected other warehouses to increase their pay to keep workers on the job. "That's just going to better for everybody in the city of Dallas, more money in peoples' pockets means they can go out and spend more and do more for their families," Narvaez said. Mike Davis, an expert with Southern Methodist University's Cox School of Business, said Amazon is making a statement about the kind of work it expects from employees. "Amazon is doing this because it's good business. Amazon isn't a charity. They're not giving away money. They want to pay $15 an hour because they expect to get $15 or more worth of value out of their workers," Davis said. "They want people who will show up on time, who will stay til the end of their shift, who can take directions, but also provide some initiative." The company has said it will lobby to increase the national minimum wage. Sun Country Airlines begins nonstop flights between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, Florida Wednesday. The flights mark the first scheduled flight for the airline originating out of DFW and arriving in Florida. Sun Country will also launch a nonstop flight Friday from Dallas/Fort Worth to Tampa International Airport (TPA) in Tampa, Florida. "We're excited to expand on our long-standing presence at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and to connect our Metroplex guests to both Tampa & Fort Myers," said Ben Brookman, vice president of network and pricing at Sun Country Airlines. "We know our passengers already love Sun Country's low fares and great customer service, and now we're spreading our wings with even more nonstop flights." Sun Country's flights out of DFW begin at $39 for one-way trips to Fort Myers and $49 for one-way trips to Tampa. The city of Dallas refuses to release a recording of the 911 call that Dallas police Officer Amber Guyger made after she fatally shot Botham Jean in his apartment last month. An attorney for the city said in a letter dated Monday that the Police Department and Dallas County district attorney's office are asking Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to allow them to withhold the 911 recording, which has been requested by The Dallas Morning News. Assistant City Attorney Pavala Armstrong wrote that releasing the information would interfere with the investigation into the Sept. 6 shooting. Read more from our media partner The Dallas Morning News. U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox and the Department of Justice are providing $1.3 million in funding to make North Texas schools safer. The grants are part of $70 million grant funding earmarked to bolster school security, educate and train students and faculty and support law enforcement officers and first responders who arrive on the scene of a school violence incident. "As the chief federal law enforcement officer in North Texas -- and mother of three students - few things are as important to me as the safety and security of our school children," said Nealy Cox. "This significant investment by the Justice Department will go a long way to ensure the safety of students and educators in the Northern District of Texas" Grants to entities in the Northern District of Texas include: $500,000 to Tarrant County (STOP Prevention grant) $499,997 to the City of Arlington (COPS grant) $249,992 to Amarillo ISD (STOP Prevention grant) $80,000 to O'Donnell ISD (STOP Prevention grant) $15,885 to the City of Benbrook (COPS grant) $1 million to the statewide Texas Education Agency (STOP Threat Assessment grant) "President Trump and his administration will ensure the safety of every American school," Attorney General Jeff Sessions said. "Earlier this year he signed into law the STOP School Violence Act, which provides grant funding to develop anonymous school threat reporting systems, to implement school building security measures, and to train students, school personnel, and law enforcement on how to prevent school violence. Today I am announcing $70 million in these grants to hundreds of cities and states across America. These grants will go a long way toward giving young people and their families both safety and peace of mind." The Office of Justice Program's Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) and the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) together are making more than 220 awards to jurisdictions across the country to help make schools more secure. The awards, granted through three funding streams, will provide new technology for reporting systems and other threat deterrent measures and create school safety training and education programs for school administrators, staff, students, and first responders. This includes the support for existing crisis intervention teams and the creation of new ones. BJA's STOP School Violence Threat Assessment and Technology Reporting Program will provide 68 awards valued at more than $19 million. This funding supports training to create and operate threat assessment and crisis intervention teams and to develop technology for local or regional anonymous reporting systems. This technology may be in the form of a mobile phone application, hotline, or website. The STOP School Violence Prevention and Mental Health Training Program, also managed by BJA, will provide training and education on preventing violence and effectively responding to related mental health crises. This program will fund 85 awards at nearly $28 million. The COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) will provide nearly $25 million to 91 jurisdictions for school safety measures including coordination with law enforcement, training for law enforcement to prevent student violence against others and self, target hardening measures, and technology for expedited notification of law enforcement during an emergency. The grants are authorized by the STOP School Violence Act, which are intended to improve school security by helping students and teachers reduce exposure to risks, prevent acts of violence, and quickly recognize and respond to violent attacks. The DOJ also announced that it has awarded more than $64 million to state agencies to improve the completeness, quality, and accessibility of the nation's criminal record systems. These grants are administered by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, part of OJP. Approximately $43 million in funding will be administered through the National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP), and nearly $21 million will be awarded under the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Act Record Improvement Program. These grant programs help states automate and upgrade records accessed by the firearms background check system. This year, at the direction of the Attorney General, the Department prioritized funding for projects that improve accessibility of criminal history records, domestic violence convictions, and information on persons who are prohibited from possessing firearms for mental-health related reasons. The DOJ is also investing over $1 million in research to better understand the factors behind mass shooting incidents. The grant awards, made by the Department's National Institute of Justice (NIJ), part of OJP, support scientific investigations that will examine factors that contribute to mass violence, identify any patterns in mass shootings, analyze psychological and social life histories of mass shooters and community-level predictors of mass violence, and will examine firearm purchasing patterns of known mass shooters in order to create a risk prediction tool. A North Texas man wrongly convicted of murder two decades ago was officially exonerated Wednesday. In 1998, John Nolley was convicted of the 1996 murder of Sharon McLane of Bedford. New evidence in the case pointed to Nolleys innocence and he was released on bond in 2016. "I'm just ready to let the water go under the bridge and keep going," Nolley said after his exoneration. "Life's just been good. The path I've travelled, it makes me better appreciate life and you know relationships." On Wednesday, Tarrant County District Attorney Sharen Wilson filed an order dismissing the conviction. The paperwork was signed by State District Judge Louis Sturns, who apologized to Nolley on behalf of the state, and the charge was dismissed. "On behalf of the judiciary of this state and this county, I apologize to you for what happened to you," the judge told him. "I realize this apology cannot take back 21 years of your life that was spent in prison." The exoneration means Nolley has been declared innocent and makes him eligible for state compensation, which is $80,000 for each year he was in prison, or about $1.5 million. The DA's Conviction Integrity Unit, the Innocence Project and Fort Worth attorney Reagan Wynn reinvestigated the case and found new evidence that revealed Nolley was not the source of a bloody palm print found on a piece of paper recovered from McLane's body. Wilson released a statement saying, "As prosecutors, it is our sworn duty to get it right. And when we discover that errors have been made, it is our responsibility to make it right." The CIU also discovered evidence that discredited the testimony of two informants both facing criminal charges at the time who contributed to the conviction. "We are incredibly grateful to District Attorney Sharen Wilson and her conviction integrity unit," the Innocence Project's Nina Morrison said in 2016. "It is because of the Units commitment to seeking the truth that Mr. Nolleys conviction was reversed today." McLane was found stabbed to death in her home Dec. 14, 1996. Evidence suggested she was killed sometime after work three days earlier. On Dec. 12, a married couple who lived in McLane's apartment complex heard a woman's blood-curdling screams just after 3 p.m. Nolley was at work at the time. Police suspected Nolley because he called a friends pager from McLanes phone and was not initially forthcoming about seeing her Dec. 11. Nolley was charged and convicted despite no physical evidence linking him to the crime, according to a statement released by the Innocence Project. His conviction was mostly based on the testimony of two witnesses. False informant testimony has contributed to nearly 15 percent of the 341 DNA exonerations, yet there are very few policies in place around the nation to make this deeply flawed evidence more reliable, the Innocence Project co-director Barry Scheck said. It brought attention to the fact that in the past, Tarrant County did not track jailhouse informant testimony. This caused a change in procedure for the county which eventually inspired a change in state law to require tracking. Now, there is a strong push to make the change federally. "We cannot change the past but we are committed to learning from it, so we can ensure that errors are never repeated," Wilson said. "John Nolley's legacy to the criminal justice system will live on through the legislation his case inspired, ensuring no person should have to defend himself against unsubstantiated, unreliable jailhouse testimony." Nolley said he's not bitter or angry. "I always knew that wasn't how my life was supposed to end," Nolley said Wednesday. "I woke up every day believing that was going to be the day. And eventually it came." What to Know A student at the University of Texas at Arlington wants a bust of the school's first president removed, citing racism. Ernest Hereford was named UTA's first president n 1948, when the school was known as North Texas Agricultural College. UTA administrators did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A student leader at the University of Texas at Arlington is organizing a petition drive to take down a statue of the school's first president, who the student claims was racist, and remove the president's name from the student center. Ernest Hereford became president of UTA in 1948, when it was known as North Texas Agricultural College, and steered the school to growth in its early years. "If we're honoring Hereford because he expanded the school, then we need to be honest about the other stuff he did," said Mark Napieralski, president of the Progressive Student Union. The student center was named after Hereford in 1959, the year after he died, and a statue of his bust is on display near a busy door to campus. Over the years, the bust has become something of a good luck charm. Students rub its head before big exams. Napieralski, a senior from Bedford majoring in art, said Hereford was racist and supported discrimination on campus. "And when they find out they're horrified, Napieralski said. Napieralski said the history is documented in old yearbooks showing Hereford allowed the Ku Klux Klan on campus as a student group, authorized mock slave auctions and changed the school's mascot to the Rebels. Napieralski said he wants the school to instead honor former students who pushed for desegregation in the 1960s because those students are more in line to where we are today rather than Hereford who legit had the Klan on campus, he said. He wrote an article for the student newspaper, the Shorthorn, and planned to take his fight to the student congress Tuesday night. The petitions carry no legal weight but pressure UTA administrators to make the changes. UTA is now one of the most diverse universities in the country. And not everyone agrees about removing Hereford's name and bust. "Taking down a statue is not going to change what happened," said UTA junior Jeremy Meredith of Tyler. "It doesn't matter if they take it down or not. I mean the history is still there." But Napieralski said it's the symbolism that counts. "We need to honor the students who made us who we are today, not who we were then," he said. UTA traces its original roots to Arlington College in 1895. Hereford became its first president in 1946. It was previously headed by deans. UTA administrators didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. The death toll has grown to more than 1,200 following the catastrophic 7.5 magnitude earthquake and tsunami that hit Indonesia's central island of Sulawesi on Sept. 28. About 62,000 people have been displaced with fuel and food running out in the aftermath of the natural disasters, which come less than two months since another earthquake struck Lombok Island. [NATL] Top News Photos: Pope Visits Japan, and More Here's how you can contribute to organizations working to address the disaster: Red Cross Society: Indonesia's Red Cross currently has over 175 volunteers and staff working in the region, conducting search and rescue efforts, offering medical support, and dispersing goods. They will continue doing so for months. Jan Gefland, head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, said the Red Cross' "biggest challenge at the moment is getting access to all communities, and then bringing large quantities of vital relief supplies into the disaster zone." You can donate by mailing a check to your local Red Cross chapter, by writing "Indonesia" in the memo field. Also, here's the IFRC's Sulawesi Tsunami specific donation page. CARE: The humanitarian non governmental relief agency, which partners with USAID, is collecting donations to provide clean drinking water, emergency family shelter, and resources including hygiene kits. UNICEF: The United Nations Children's Fund has taken their humanitarian efforts to Indonesia. They are now collecting donations on their website for issues specific to children, including reuniting children with their families and providing clean water. International Medical Corps: On Friday, the relief agency announced its emergency response team was being dispatched to Indonesia, providing victims with care and supplies. The ask for donations here. Project HOPE: On the ground in Palu, the humanitarian organization is collecting general donations. Donations specific to Indonesia's recovery can be made here. The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee: The relief organization is assessing the region's specific needs. A donation, the organization writes, would contribute towards the organization providing emergency medical care, supplies and psychological support. Food for the Hungry: The international relief and development organization, founded in 1971, has a page for direct donations, for "faithfully answering God's call to respond to suffering." The organization is a charter member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability. Indonesia Earthquake and Tsunami The Indonesian neighborhoods of Petobo, top, and Balaroa, bottom, in Palu as shown before and after an earthquake and tsunami devastated the area. Click here for a larger image. Click here for a larger image. (ANSA) - Rome, October 3 - A new report out Wednesday said 10% of women employed in Italy risk poverty while less than 50% have a job. According to the new study released by Oxfam, 10% of employed women risk poverty because ''they live in a household with an income below the at-risk-of-poverty threshold''. Italy, the organization said in a statement, is among the worst performers in Europe on this indicator, ''which is even more alarming considering that less than half of the Italian female population is employed''. Moreover, according to the report, 69.5% of women in 2017 had an ''involuntary'' part-time job, a percentage in line with the average in Europe, where four in five part-time workers are women. The Oxfam report also found that 81% of domestic work falls on women, compared to 20% of men, while 97% of women are the main caregivers of children. What to Know Low-paid workers "get kicked the most in the recession, and they generally benefit more later in the boom," says one economist Amazon's announcement will likely embolden labor activists and unions that have been pressing large fast-food and retail chains to raise pay Shares of retail companies fell sharply Tuesday in a sign that investors expect them to have to raise pay to compete with Amazon After years of sluggish pay gains, the economy may be starting to work for America's low-wage workers. Amazon's announcement Tuesday that it will raise its minimum wage to $15 an hour will intensify pressure on other companies to lift their pay levels as well. Among the most likely to do so: Amazon's rival retailers and warehouse operators, many of which are facing the prospect of staff shortages as they ramp up for the holiday shopping season. "This is going to be a big deal for very low-wage workers," said Ben Zipperer, an economist at the liberal Economic Policy Institute. "It's going to compel other businesses to raise wages as well." Low-wage workers typically receive higher pay from an expanding economy only after higher-income people have benefited, economists note. Now, with the unemployment rate near a 50-year low and the number of job openings exceeding the number of unemployed, more lower-income Americans are finally receiving meaningful raises. Low-paid workers "get kicked the most in the recession, and they generally benefit more later in the boom," said David Neumark, an economist at University of California, Irvine. Accordingly, retailers, who employ a sizable share of the nation's lower-paid workers, have been stepping up pay increases. Average hourly wages for retail workers, excluding managers, rose 4 percent in August compared with 12 months earlier. Amazon's announcement will likely embolden labor activists and unions that have been pressing large fast-food and retail chains to raise pay, provide more reliable work schedules, and allow for union representation. Among the critics Amazon has faced over its pay and work conditions, Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont has noted that some of its workers receive food stamps and other benefits that are geared for the poor, while its owner Jeff Bezos has become the world's wealthiest person. "Now that activists have succeeded, they can now take that demand to other employers," said Marshall Steinbaum, a fellow at the Roosevelt Institute. "You say you can't afford this, but your competitor obviously can." Indeed, shares of retail companies fell sharply Tuesday in a sign that investors expect them to have to raise pay to compete with Amazon, a step that would potentially slow their profits. Best Buy's share price dropped nearly 5 percent; Kohl's Stores fell 3.9 percent. Amazon, the world's largest online retailer, also said Tuesday that it will lobby to raise the federal minimum wage from $7.25 an hour, though it did not say what figure it would push for. The impact of a higher federal wage, though, would likely be modest, because more than 20 states have minimum wages above the federal level. A higher federal minimum wage could intensify pressures on smaller businesses that don't have the financial resources that Amazon has to raise pay significantly. Historically, large companies have been a driving factor in pushing up the minimum wage, Steinbaum said. Once they start to raise pay in response to competitive forces, they typically lobby to push others to follow suit, to prevent other companies from undercutting them. Darren Moscato, who owns an Express staffing agency in Buffalo, New York, where Amazon has built a warehouse, said the higher pay offered by Amazon "will make it harder for local businesses to compete for workers." Moscato noted that smaller companies typically spend more on labor than does Amazon, which uses more automation. "This is why Amazon is also pushing for a higher national minimum wage," Moscato said. "It will give them a competitive advantage." Other retailers and shipping companies are likely to feel the brunt of Amazon's decision as well, analysts said. The pay increases would apply to about 100,000 Amazon seasonal workers. That's equal to roughly 16 percent of the 623,800 retail jobs that the economy added in October and November last year. "We've already seen just how much pressure there is I think this is only going to increase it," said Judy Conti, director of government affairs at the National Employment Law Project. An advocate for higher minimum wages, Conti added that Amazon would likely benefit if $15 an hour became the new baseline. Any small businesses that compete with larger companies by providing better service rather than by matching every price cut should also manage fine, she said. Companies like UPS, FedEx and XPO Logistics typically hire tens of thousands of seasonal workers to meet the crushing demands of online shopping during the winter holidays. Amazon plans to add 100,000, many of them at the higher $15 wage, which takes effect Nov. 1. "The crisis in warehouse and shipping personnel is very real, and there's going to have to be a meaningful increase in wages to attract and increase talent," said Steve Barr, consumer markets leader at PwC. Iesha Townsend, who works as a McDonald's cashier in Chicago, said she hopes other companies follow suit. Townsend, 32, plans to demonstrate for higher pay on Thursday as part of the Fight for $15 movement. "Why shouldn't we get it too?" she said, referring to Amazon's raise. "We work so hard, and we get less." AP Writers Anne D'Innocenzio and Josh Boak contributed to this report. Republican Diane Harkey and Democrat Mike Levin, candidates for the 49th Congressional District seat, went toe to toe in a debate Tuesday live from the NBC 7 studios in Kearny Mesa. Harkey, who has earned an endorsement from President Donald Trump, is a current member of the California Board of Equalization. Levin is an environmental employee who was praised in a speech by President Barack Obama last month as a champion for environmental issues and climate change. The race for the 49th District seat is one of the most closely-watched races in the country. NBC 7's Alex Presha hits District 49 candidates Diane Harkey and Mike Levin with rapid-fire questions. Candidates fielded questions from NBC 7 San Diego anchors Catherine Garcia and Mark Mullen, as well as political reporter Alex Presha. A student audience screening the debate at Mira Costa College in Oceanside also had a chance to pose questions in real time. How should Congress ensure that students are able to pay off their loans and find gainful employment? NBC 7's Danny Freeman is taking live questions for the two candidates racing for the 49th Congressional District. Topics included immigration, President Trump's administration, military threats to the United States, healthcare and the VA, leadership and even the Space Force. The debate became contentious at several points, but the first came after a question was posed about Special Council Robert Mueller's investigation into President Trump and the 2016 election. Harkey said she was against impeachment of the president, saying "[the country] does not need the chaos." Levin rebutted that he doesn't seek impeachment, only "justice and the truth." Speaking to a question about border security, Harkey called a reinforced border wall along California's southern border with Mexico a necessity, not to keep people out but to keep criminals and gang members out. "Right now we have a crisis at the border with drug running, human trafficking, and money laundering. And you dont have to believe me, you can read Kamala Harriss report - 2014 on transitional gangs," she said. A major debate between the front runners for the 49th District seat will be hosted by NBC 7's Alex Presha. NBC 7's Danny Freeman has more on Oceanside residents' reactions. Levin spoke passionately about fighting against described efforts to privatize the VA, calling the department VA is a "world-class administrator of medical care, specifically for the needs of veterans." Harkey and Levin advanced to the November Runoff after securing the top two spots in Californias so-called jungle primary," which features candidates of both parties on the same ballot with the top two candidates from either party advancing. Harkey came in first with 25 percent of the vote while Levin came in second with 17 percent of the vote. District 49, which encompasses Encinitas, Oceanside, Vista, Carlsbad and a small part of Orange County, is represented by Republican Congressman Darrell Issa who announced his retirement in January. What to Know The University of California San Diego's Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research will study the effect on people who suffer from tremors. Researchers say it's tough to measure the dose someone receives when they inhale pot. The university is hoping to enroll 16 to 20 patients in the study. In a rare move, the U.S. government has approved the importation of marijuana extracts from Canada for a clinical trial, highlighting a new avenue for American researchers who have long had trouble obtaining the drug for medical studies. The University of California San Diego's Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research announced Tuesday the Drug Enforcement Administration has OK'd its plans to import capsules containing two key cannabis compounds -- CBD and THC -- from British Columbia-based Tilray Inc . to study their effectiveness in treating tremors that afflict millions of people, especially those over 65. Marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and researchers aren't allowed to simply obtain it through providers licensed under state law. The U.S. has a program for supplying it for research through the National Institute on Drug Abuse, with cannabis grown by the University of Mississippi, but scientists have long complained about the difficulty of obtaining it, as well as the quality and limited variety of the pot available. The University of California San Diego researchers spent years planning and seeking approval for their study from the DEA and the Food and Drug Administration. Paul Armentano, deputy director of the marijuana law reform organization NORML, said that illustrated how badly American researchers need alternative sources for cannabis. "It's very telling that you have researchers in the U.S. willing to exert the patience and go through the regulatory hurdles to make this happen at the same time the United States has its own domestic supply source," Armentano said. Medical marijuana is federally legal in Canada, and the country will allow recreational sale and use beginning next month. Marijuana compounds have been imported for clinical trials before, including by Britain-based GW Pharmaceuticals, which won approval this year to sell its purified CBD capsule, Epidiolex, to treat severe forms of epilepsy -- the first cannabis drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. While GW Pharmaceuticals developed that drug in-house before bringing it to the U.S. for testing, Tilray, which recently became the first marijuana company to complete an initial public stock offering in the U.S., said it can work with researchers to develop the cannabis formulations they hope to study. "It's a really big milestone for Tilray and also just for the whole industry," said Catherine Jacobson, Tilray's director of clinical research. "Researchers in the U.S. have really been limited to doing research using dried flower. We have been able to prove to the FDA that we can manufacture investigational study drugs containing cannabinoids that meet their standards." Neither the FDA nor the DEA had immediate details on how often the agencies have approved the import or use of foreign-made cannabis drugs in research, but DEA spokeswoman Katherine Pfaff says: "It is done. There are definitely situations where, when there's no source in the U.S., a registrant can import a cannabis-derived drug from another country." The National Institute on Drug Abuse usually provides marijuana as bulk flower or joints to be vaporized or smoked. NIDA, which does intend to expand how much marijuana the University of Mississippi grows for research, does not yet provide marijuana compounds in capsules, said Don Stanford, assistant director of the Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the university. Researchers say it's tough to measure the dose someone receives when they inhale pot. Dr. Fatta Nahab, a neurologist at the University of California San Diego Health's Movement Disorder Center, is the principal investigator on the tremor study. He said he worried that the seniors he expected to recruit as participants wouldn't want to inhale marijuana, and the researchers have spent the past two years on paperwork and regulatory hurdles to obtain the capsules. There is no specific drug to treat essential tremor, a shaking condition. Unlike Parkinson's disease, which causes shaking when someone is not moving, people with essential tremors shake when they are, making everyday activities like writing, drinking and speaking difficult. The condition afflicts 10 million people nationally and millions more across the globe, according to the International Essential Tremor Foundation. Many patients try to control the shaking by repurposing other drugs, such as blood pressure medicine, with limited success. "There is a huge need to come up with something," Nahab said. Nahab said he started looking into whether marijuana could be used to treat essential tremor after two patients showed sudden improvement after smoking pot or consuming CBD purchased online. The FDA application outlined the drug formula -- a 20:1 ratio of CBD to THC, to minimize any high study participants might feel -- as well as its purity, toxicity, shelf life and other details. They also had to get safety approvals from the university and present their plans to a California research advisory panel. The university is still recruiting patients and hopes to have 16 to 20 enrolled. Researchers monitor the tremors with a device placed on the wrist and will record changes in the severity of the shaking, among other things. Tilray is providing the drug and limited financial support but said it will have no role in reviewing the study's results. "Essential tremor is ten times more common than Parkinson's and yet nobody really knows about essential tremor," Nahab said. "That we're finally getting to a potential therapeutic option in an area that is untapped is a big deal." The Senate braced for a crucial initial vote Friday on Brett Kavanaugh's tottering Supreme Court nomination after Majority Leader Mitch McConnell set his polarized chamber on a schedule to decide which party wins an election-season battle royale that has consumed the nation. A showdown roll call over confirmation seemed likely over the weekend. McConnell, R-Ky., cemented the process late Wednesday and announced that sometime during the evening, the FBI would deliver to an anxious Senate the potentially fateful document on claims that Kavanaugh sexually abused women. With Republicans clinging to a razor-thin 51-49 majority and five senators including three Republicans still vacillating, the conservative jurist's prospects of Senate confirmation remained murky and highly dependent on the file's contents, which are supposed to be kept secret. "There will be plenty of time for members to review and be briefed on the supplemental material" before Friday's vote, McConnell said to the nearly empty chamber. In a rare moment of randomness in what's been a deadly serious process, the normally meticulous lawmaker's cell phone emitted a ringtone during part of his remarks. Lawmakers were planning to begin reading the FBI report early Thursday, with senators and a small number of top aides permitted to view it in a secure room in the Capitol complex. Senators are not supposed to divulge the contents of the agency's background reports. The report was arriving at a Capitol palpably tense over the political stakes of the nomination fight and from aggressive anti-Kavanaugh protesters who have rattled and reportedly harassed senators. Feeding the anxiety was an unusually beefy presence of the U.S. Capitol Police, who were keeping demonstrators and frequently reporters at arm's length by forming wedges around lawmakers walking through corridors. Amid complaints that some lawmakers were being confronted outside their homes, McConnell claimed on the Senate floor that the protesters were "part of the organized effort" to derail Kavanaugh's nomination. "There is no chance in the world that they're going to scare us out of doing our duty," he said. Adding to the uncertainty, the three undecided GOP senators who could decide Kavanaugh's fate rebuked President Donald Trump for mocking one accuser, Christine Blasey Ford, by mimicking her responses to questions at last week's dramatic Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. "I would tell him, knock it off. You're not helping," Trump ally Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said of Trump's Tuesday night tirade. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said Trump's insults marked a "new low." Barring leaks, it was unclear how much of the FBI report, if any, would be made public. While senators from both sides have expressed support for revealing at least parts of the findings, FBI background checks on nominees are supposed to remain confidential. Underscoring rising tensions, Democrats suggested that previous FBI background checks of Kavanaugh may have unearthed misconduct by the nominee. Democrats wrote to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, challenging a Tuesday tweet by GOP aides saying prior investigations never found "a whiff of ANY issue at all related in any way to inappropriate sexual behavior or alcohol abuse." Democrats wrote that the GOP tweet contained information that is "not accurate." Committee Republicans tweeted in response that their prior tweet was "completely truthful" and accused Democrats of "false smears." Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, told reporters that Trump's lampooning of Ford at a Tuesday night Mississippi campaign rally was "just plain wrong." Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, called it "wholly inappropriate and in my view unacceptable," and Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., said on NBC's "Today" show that the remarks were "kind of appalling." Those senators, along with Democrats Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota and Joe Manchin of West Virginia, have yet to declare how they will vote. "All of us need to keep in mind there's a few people that are on the fence right now. And right now, that's sort of where our focus needs to be," said Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee, who has traded barbs with Trump and will retire at year's end. Trump drew laughs Tuesday with his rendition of how Ford answered questions at last week's hearing. "I had one beer that's the only thing I remember," he stated inaccurately. As he flew aboard Air Force One to the Mississippi rally, Trump was enraged by New York Times articles about Kavanaugh's high school and college years and alleging tax avoidance efforts by the president and his family, according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke on the condition of anonymity. White House counselor Kellyanne Conway on Wednesday echoed the president's newly aggressive approach. She said Ford has "been treated like a Faberge egg by all of us, beginning with me and the president," and said Trump was merely "pointing out factual inconsistencies." Trump himself didn't respond publicly to the criticism. On Twitter, he hailed Kavanaugh as "a fine man and great intellect" and insisted, "The country is with him all the way!" The California psychology professor has testified that a drunken Kavanaugh sexually abused her in a locked room at a high school party in the 1980s and has said she believed he was trying to rape her. Kavanaugh has denied her assertions and those of two other women, who have accused him of other instances of sexual misconduct in the 1980s. Democrats argued that the investigation has been insufficient, lacking interviews with her, with Kavanaugh and others who his accusers have said could know about the alleged incidents. In a statement Wednesday night after McConnell set the vote in motion, Ford's counsel wrote: "An FBI supplemental background investigation that did not include an interview of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford nor the witnesses who corroborate her testimony cannot be called an investigation. We are profoundly disappointed that after the tremendous sacrifice she made in coming forward, those directing the FBI investigation were not interested in seeking the truth." Corker and Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., said senators were expecting the document to contain reports that FBI agents compile on their interviews with subjects, perhaps accompanied by a cover letter. Background checks do not traditionally contain investigators' conclusions about who they believe is credible. Washington has been awaiting completion of the investigation since last week, when Flake, Collins and Murkowski pressured a reluctant Trump and GOP leaders to order the FBI to renew its background check of the 53-year-old Kavanaugh. The FBI interviewed several people, including three who Ford has said attended a 1982 high school gathering in suburban Maryland where she says Kavanaugh's attack occurred, plus another Kavanaugh friend. The agency has also spoken to a second woman, Deborah Ramirez, who has claimed Kavanaugh exposed himself to her at a Yale party when both were freshmen. In an interview, No. 2 Senate Democratic leader Dick Durbin of Illinois said McConnell was "hell-bent on getting this done" this week. Democrats also demanded that the FBI privately brief the Senate about the investigation before the chamber votes. McConnell rejected that request in a letter Wednesday to Schumer, saying Democrats would use it to delay Kavanaugh's confirmation. Associated Press writers Eric Tucker, Michael Balsamo, Catherine Lucey, Zeke Miller, Padmananda Rama, Matthew Daly, Mary Clare Jalonick and Kevin Freking contributed. Last September, school speech therapist Kathy Hoffman was settling into the new academic year, working with youngsters in her small classroom behind a playground at Sahuaro Ranch Elementary School in a blue-collar neighborhood outside Phoenix. This year, the political novice is gone from her classroom and on the campaign trail across Arizona full-time as the Democrats' choice in the race to become superintendent of public education, overseeing the state's schools. It's a post typically held by career politicians or political insiders. "My tipping point was realizing we need more teachers running for office, people who understand what it's like in the classroom, who have seen the effect of having the lack of resources from our lawmakers," Hoffman said. Hundreds of current and former educators, most of them Democrats like Hoffman, are on general election ballots from school board to governor far exceeding educator candidacies prior to this year's successful #RedForEd protests. In her first campaign during the Democratic primary, the 32-year-old Hoffman beat a former state senate minority leader, illustrating how much a surge in teacher activism centering on higher teacher pay and increased educational funding have shaken up November midterm elections around the U.S. She and the other teacher candidates represent a wild-card political movement following the teacher-driven #RedForEd effort that drew support from parents and school children in Arizona, Colorado, Kentucky, Oklahoma and West Virginia and also focused on outdated textbooks, crowded classrooms and teacher shortages. Across the country, some educators have already won primary races against the incumbent state legislators they blamed for public school spending cutbacks. "It's about standing up for what's right and bringing that teacher's voice to that position," Hoffman said. "I felt it should come straight from the classroom." After years of dense education debates over teacher evaluations and the Common Core learning standards, the new teacher candidates' simplified message for higher pay and more funding for schools represent "talking points (that) are resonating," said Frederick Hess, director of education policy at the conservative American Enterprise Institute public policy think tank. "What we might be seeing is the emergence of a number of individuals who will be an elected mainstream set of advocates for these teacher issues," he said. In the state senate races in Maine and Minnesota, teacher candidates could help flip state legislatures to Democratic control, according to Mara Sloan, spokeswoman for the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee. She said her group knows of 650 educators running for state legislative positions across the country this year and that more than 450 are Democrats. In Kentucky, at least 34 current and former teachers are on the ballot in the general election for seats in the state legislature, 29 of them Democrats. In Connecticut, former National Teacher of the Year Jahana Hayes won the Democratic primary for a U.S. House seat. The Oklahoma Education Association said 55 educators are running in the general election for the state legislature. As for the Republicans, Oklahoma City assistant school principal Sherrie Conley upset three-term incumbent state lawmaker Bobby Cleveland in a primary runoff election. Cleveland is one of six Republican state House members in Oklahoma who lost their jobs after voting against a tax hike used to fund a teacher pay raise. Experts say it's too soon to say what sort impact the teacher candidates may have on policy if elected. Republican State Leadership Committee communications director David James accused teacher unions of fielding Democratic candidates who would use "their education platforms to defend a Bolshevik monopoly, that turns to the Prussian model of classroom teaching, rather than new innovative techniques." He also said "Republicans have a sizable force of educators that will win this cycle." Hoffman said she decided to run out of a feeling that too many education decision-makers don't understand how public schools work. She was dismayed with the confirmation hearing of U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, who stumbled over questions about students with disabilities. Hoffman became more politicized after Arizona state lawmakers refused to grant the same 20 percent raises Arizona teachers got to school support staff and a decision by the state's outgoing education chief, Diane Douglas, to support an ethnic studies ban that a federal judge ruled was discriminatory. Douglas ended up finishing third in a five-way Republican primary. "That's when I realized it's not how many offices you've run for and how many political campaigns you've had," Hoffman said. She calls her opponent, Frank Riggs, one of the "establishment politicians" who have put the state's schools in crisis. Riggs is a three-term Republican California U.S. congressman who was the CEO of a nonprofit company that helps charter schools with financing and is the founding president of an online K-12 Arizona charter school. He has criticized Hoffman for being "inexperienced and extreme" and has said she holds "radical views." In an interview, the 68-year-old Riggs called Hoffman "a very nice young person" who is dedicated to education but said she has limited teaching experience and no leadership credentials. "The job involves high-level executive leadership. It requires a deep knowledge of education policies and practices at the local, state and federal level," Riggs said. "And to be a credible advocate as our state's chief K-12 officer, it requires a degree of legislative and political expertise, which I certainly feel I have as a former member of Congress." Hoffman said getting her campaign going was like starting a new company. Her campaign workers in the primary were all under 40 and one was an Arizona #RedForEd protest leader. She had to learn about branding, logos, messaging and hone her public speaking and networking skills. "Every little piece of that had to come together, and I know I've grown so much professionally and personally from this experience," she said. But candidates like Hoffman in states like Arizona that lean Republican must not only get votes from Democrats, but also Republicans or independents. And they are dependent on voters who are still thinking about public education as a key issue in November months after the #RedForEd protests demonstrations captured national attention. "Even if the moment is ripe and even if the message resonates, and even if there is concern about the state of public education in these states, these candidates for the most part, are still going to have to overcome the partisan disadvantage that they face at the ballot box," said Patrick McGuinn, a political science and education professor at Drew University in New Jersey. Cellular companies such as Verizon are looking to challenge traditional cable companies with residential internet service that promises to be ultra-fast, affordable and wireless. Using an emerging wireless technology known as 5G, Verizon's 5G Home service provides an alternative to cable for connecting laptops, phones, TVs and other devices over Wi-Fi. It launches in four U.S. cities on Monday. Verizon won't be matching cable companies on packages that also come with TV channels and home phone service. But fewer people have been subscribing to such bundles anyway, as they embrace streaming services such as Netflix for video and cellphone services instead of landline. "That's the trend that cable has been having problems with for several years, and a trend that phone companies can take advantage of," Gartner analyst Bill Menzes said. That's if the wireless companies can offer a service that proves affordable and effective. T-Mobile and Sprint are also planning a residential 5G service as part of their merger proposal, though few details are known. Verizon's broadband-only service will cost $70 a month, with a $20 discount for Verizon cellular customers. According to Leichtman Research Group, the average price for broadband internet is about $60, meaning only some customers will be saving money. Even so, Verizon can try to win over some customers with promises of reliability. Verizon says its service will be much faster than cable. That means downloading a two-hour movie in high definition in two minutes rather than 21. The service promises to let families play data-intensive games and watch video on multiple devices at once, with little or no lag. "The things that really matter to a customer are how fast it is and how reliable it is," longtime telecom analyst Dave Burstein said. In tests of Verizon's 5G so far, he said, "reliability is proving out quite nicely." Verizon could also capitalize on many people's frustration with their cable companies. Consumer Reports magazine says customers have long been unhappy with perceived weak customer service, high prices and hidden fees. The residential 5G service is part of a broader upgrade in wireless technology. Verizon has spent billions of dollars for rights to previously unused radio waves at the high end of the frequency spectrum. It's a short-range signal, ideal for city blocks and apartment buildings, but less so for sprawling suburbs or rural communities. That's why Verizon is pushing residential service first, while AT&T is building a more traditional cellular network for people on the go, using radio waves at the lower end. AT&T is aiming to launch its 5G mobile network this year in 12 cities, including Atlanta and Charlotte, North Carolina. Dish also has plans for a 5G network, but it's focused on connecting the so-called "Internet of Things," everything from laundry machines to parking meters, rather than cellphones or residential broadband. Sprint tried to introduce residential wireless service before, using a technology called WiMax, but it failed to gain many subscribers as LTE trumped WiMax as the dominant cellular technology. This time, Verizon is using the same 5G technology that will eventually make its way into 5G cellular networks. The Verizon service will start in parts of Houston, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, California. "These are small areas but significant," said Ronan Dunne, president of Verizon Wireless. "Tens of thousands of homes, not hundreds of thousands of homes." Eventually, Verizon projects 30 million homes in the U.S. will be eligible, though there's no timeline. For now, Verizon isn't planning to hit markets where it already has its cable-like Fios service. Verizon stopped expanding Fios around 2010, in part because it was expensive to dig up streets and lay fiber-optic lines. Verizon can build 5G more cheaply because it can use the same towers available for cellular service. That said, Verizon might not recoup its costs if it ends up drawing only customers who stand to save money over cable, said John Horrigan, a broadband expert at the Technology Policy Institute. And while Verizon says the new network will be able to handle lots of devices at once, anyone who's tried to use a phone during concerts and conferences will know that the airwaves can get congested quickly. What Verizon's service won't do is extend high-speed internet access to rural America, where many households can't get broadband at all, let alone competition. Cable and other companies haven't found it profitable to extend wires to remote parts of the country. But Verizon will face the same problem, given that its short-range signal will require several wireless towers closer together. That's feasible only in densely populated areas. That's not good enough, said Harold Feld, senior vice president of the advocacy group Public Knowledge. He said internet service at reasonable prices is "fundamental" for all Americans not just those who live in populated areas. T-Mobile and Sprint want to jointly create a 5G network that would also offer residential wireless broadband, but not for a few years. In seeking regulatory approval, the companies say 20 percent to 25 percent of subscribers will be in rural areas that have limited access to broadband. But the companies offered no details on how they would do so. T-Mobile and Sprint declined to comment. Desperation exploded into anger four days after an earthquake and tsunami severely damaged parts of an Indonesian island, with residents Tuesday showing frustration at the pace of rescues, grabbing food from damaged stores and begging Indonesia's president to help them. The confirmed toll exceeded 1,200 dead with hundreds severely injured and still more trapped in debris. "Pay attention to Donggala, Mr. Jokowi. Pay attention to Donggala," yelled one resident in footage broadcast on local television, referring to President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo. "There are still a lot of unattended villages here." Most of the attention so far has focused on the biggest affected city, Palu, home to 380,000 people with considerable damage. The toll was raised to 1,234 on Tuesday afternoon for the towns of Palu, Donggala, Sigi and Parigi Muntong with 799 people badly injured, national disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said at a news conference in Jakarta. In Sigi and the hard-hit area of Balaroa, more people remain trapped, meaning the toll is likely to rise. He said 153 bodies were buried Monday in a mass grave and the operation continued Tuesday and adding the government was working to speed up aid distribution. A special aircraft carrying 12,000 liters of fuel was expected to arrive and trucks carrying food were en route with police escorts to guard against looters. Donggala and other outlying areas have received little assistance largely due to impassable roads. The town's administration head, Kasman Lassa, said residents should take only food staples from shops. "Everyone is hungry and they want to eat after several days of not eating," Lassa said on local TV. "We have anticipated it by providing food, rice, but it was not enough. There are many people here. So, on this issue, we cannot pressure them to hold much longer." Desperation was visible everywhere among victims receiving little aid. In Palu, signs propped along roads read "We Need Food" and "We Need Support," while children begged for cash in the streets and long lines of cars snarled traffic as people waited for fuel. Teams were searching for trapped survivors under destroyed homes and buildings, including a collapsed eight-story hotel in the city, but they needed more heavy equipment to clear the rubble. Nearly 62,000 people have been displaced from their homes, Nugroho said. Many people were believed trapped under shattered houses in Balaroa, where the earthquake caused the ground to heave up and down violently. "I and about 50 other people in Balaroa were able to save ourselves by riding on a mound of soil which was getting higher and higher," resident Siti Hajat told MetroTV, adding her house was destroyed. In Palu's Petobo neighborhood, the quake caused loose, wet soil to liquefy, creating a thick, heavy mud that resulted in massive damage. "In Petobo, it is estimated that there are still hundreds of victims buried in mud," Nugroho said. Residents who found loved ones alive and dead over the weekend expressed frustration that it took rescue teams until Monday to reach Petobo. The magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck at dusk Friday and generated a tsunami said to have been as high as 6 meters (nearly 20 feet) in places. President Widodo authorized the acceptance of international help, Nugroho said Monday, adding that generators, heavy equipment and tents were among the most-needed items. The European Union and about 10 countries have offered assistance, including the United States and China, he said. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Tuesday that his government had given $360,000 to help victims and was in talks with Indonesian authorities about a second round of aid. The initial funds would go to the Indonesian Red Cross for the most obvious emergency aid needs, such as tarpaulins. The coastline at Palu was strewn with rubble and a few brightly colored cargo containers poking out of the water. Buildings near the water were ruined shells. The arches of a large yellow bridge rested in the water and eerie drone footage showed a Ferris wheel, untouched, on a beach scraped bare by the waves. In the Petobo neighborhood, Edi Setiawan said he and his neighbors rescued children and adults, including a pregnant woman. His sister and father, however, did not survive. "My sister was found embracing her father," he said. "My mother was able to survive after struggling against the mud and being rescued by villagers." Indonesia is frequently struck by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis because of its location on the "Ring of Fire," an arc of volcanoes and fault lines in the Pacific Basin. A powerful quake on the island of Lombok killed 505 people in August, and two moderate quakes near an eastern island on Tuesday reportedly damaged a bridge. The vast archipelago is home to 260 million people on more than 17,000 islands that stretch a distance similar to that between New York and London. Roads and infrastructure are poor in many areas, making access difficult in the best of conditions. Associated Press writers Margie Mason and Ali Kotarumalos contributed. The United Nations' highest court on Wednesday ordered the United States to lift sanctions on Iran that affect imports of humanitarian goods and products and services linked to the safety of civil aviation. The ruling by the International Court of Justice is legally binding, but it remains to be seen if the administration of President Donald Trump will comply. Trump moved to restore tough U.S. sanctions in May after withdrawing from Tehran's nuclear accord with world powers. Iran challenged the sanctions in a case filed in July at the International Court of Justice. In a preliminary ruling, the court said that Washington must "remove, by means of its choosing, any impediments arising from" the re-imposition of sanctions to the export to Iran of medicine and medical devices, food and agricultural commodities and spare parts and equipment necessary to ensure the safety of civil aviation. While imposing the so-called "provisional measures," the court's president, Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf, stressed that the ruling does not prejudge the ultimate outcome of the case or establish that the court has jurisdiction. Iranian state television trumpeted the court's decision in a scrolling graphic at the bottom of TV screens: "The victory of Tehran over Washington by the Hague Court." The U.S. is expected to challenge the court's jurisdiction in a future hearing. At hearings in August, Tehran sought the suspension of the sanctions while the case challenging their legality is being heard a process that can take years. U.S. lawyers responded that the sanctions are a legal and justified national security measure that cannot be challenged by Tehran at the world court. In its decision, the court said that the U.S. sanctions "have the potential to endanger civil aviation safety" in Iran and that sanctions limiting sales of goods required for humanitarian needs such as food, medicines and medical devices "may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." The court said that the Trump administration must "ensure that licenses and necessary authorizations are granted" and payments not restricted if they are linked to the humanitarian and aviation goods. The court also told both the United States and Iran to "refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute." Iran alleges that the sanctions breach a 1955 bilateral agreement known as the Treaty of Amity that regulates and promotes economic and consular ties between the two countries. The treaty was signed when the U.S. and Iran were still allies following the 1953 revolution fomented by Britain and the U.S. that ultimately cemented the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Diplomatic relations were severed following the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran and takeover of the U.S. Embassy and ensuing hostage crisis. However, the treaty remains in force. Wednesday's ruling could set up another clash between the Trump administration and a Hague-based court. Last month, Trump's national security advisor, John Bolton, denounced the International Criminal Court a separate and unrelated institution based just a few kilometers (miles) away from the International Court of Justice. The ICC prosecutes people accused of war atrocities while the ICJ settles disputes between nations. Bolton said last month that "for all intents and purposes, the ICC is already dead to us." Associated Press writer Amir Vahdat contributed. When President Donald Trump celebrated on Monday the workings of a new deal with Mexico that would replace the North American Free Trade Agreement, numerous questions were left unsettled. No full text has yet been provided. On Friday, the Trump administration plans to send Congress a formal notice of the trade agreement. Not until 30 days after that would lawmakers likely receive a text of the deal. But based on what is already known, here is a snapshot of key changes in the agreement so far: NO MORE 'NAFTA' Trump, ever focused on branding, considers the popular name for the North American Free Trade Agreement to be toxic. For Trump and other critics of NAFTA, the 1994 landmark deal might have helped companies trade more freely across national borders, but it also caused the gutting of the industrial Midwest. Many economists and historians argue that the reality is more nuanced. They point out that the industrial Midwest was already struggling with closures before NAFTA was signed. They also note that while certain sectors of U.S. manufacturing were hurt by NAFTA, American consumers and companies and workers in some industries, like agriculture benefited from it. But Trump wants to end that debate and scrap a name he says is tainted. "I like to call this deal the United States-Mexico Trade Agreement," he said Monday. "I think it's an elegant name." Of course, there are a few problems with this particular name. Most obviously, it excludes Canada, the third member country in NAFTA. Second, it gives the United States top billing, which could be interpreted as an affront to Mexicans and Canadians. EITHER CANADA SIGNS UP, TOO, OR IT MAY BE CUT OUT This is the wild card. The proposed deal between Mexico and the United States intensifies pressure on Canada to agree to the same terms. That said, the Trump administration had pursued the negotiations to update NAFTA with the assumption that Canada would be included. So it's unclear whether a U.S. deal with Mexico alone would clear Congress' requirements. Chrystia Freeland, Canada's minister of foreign affairs, came to Washington on Tuesday in hopes of reaching an agreement. Losing Canada would be a problem for the United States. Trump on Monday seemed to suggest that trade with Canada was a "smaller segment," while Mexico is a "very large trading partner." It's not quite clear if Trump was referring to the state of the negotiating process or to the flow of imports and exports among these countries. But Canada is a dominant exporter of crude oil to the United States: It accounts for 47 percent of the barrels imported to the United States, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Canada was the United States' second largest trading partner in 2017, ranking just below China. Mexico is the third largest U.S. trading partner. MORE AUTO PARTS MUST BE MADE IN NORTH AMERICA Of the $149 billion worth of auto parts imported into the United States last year, 48 percent came from Mexico and Canada, according to the U.S. International Trade Administration. The proposed deal between the United States and Mexico would likely increase that figure. It would require that 75 percent of autos contain parts made in North America, up from 62.5 percent now required by NAFTA. And 70 percent of the steel, aluminum and glass used to make a vehicle must also originate in North America. These requirements could possibly lead to fewer imports from Asia, Europe and South America. 40 TO 45 PERCENT OF VEHICLES WOULD BE MADE BY WORKERS WHO EARN AT LEAST $16 AN HOUR A major wage gap separates autoworkers in the United States and Mexico, and this new provision aims to narrow it. An average Mexican autoworker earned $5.21 an hour, and auto parts workers make even less than that, according to a 2016 analysis by the Center for Automotive Research. That is about one-fourth the average hourly earnings of $21.68 for a U.S. autoworker, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Trump can say that the wage requirement will preserve factory jobs in the United States, while the Mexican government can say it will boost incomes in that country. "There is no doubt this agreement creates incentives for the salaries in the auto industry grow over time," Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray Caso of Mexico told The Associated Press. "A percentage of the value of the vehicle must be made in areas with high salaries. This generates a clear incentive for the salaries in Mexico eventually reach a higher level." THE PACT WOULD EXPIRE IN 16 YEARS, BUT THE TWO COUNTRIES COULD REVIEW IT EVERY SIX YEARS AND RENEW IT FOR 16 MORE The agreement would force countries to update the trade pact. One of the criticisms of the 24 year-old North American Free Trade Agreement was that it no longer applies to the economy as it exists today. It was forged before the internet, smartphones, social media or China's entrance into the World Trade Organization transformations that leave parts of NAFTA woefully outdated. This new clause could create two forms of pressure: Countries would feel obligated to update the agreement in order to preserve it. But businesses could also face tremendous uncertainty if the agreement was on the verge of ending. AP writer Luis Alonso Lugo contributed to this report. (ANSA) - Vatican City, October 3 - Pope Francis got emotional in greeting two bishops from China, present for their first time at a Synod, during the homily of a Mass in St Peter's Square Wednesday. Francis stopped his homily because of the emotion and then resumed after getting an encouraging round of applause from the thousands of faithful in the square. The pontiff, in opening the Synod on young people, said "Let us not be suffocated by our sins". He also said "let us not leave young people in the hands of merchants of death". The pope also quoted German poet Friedrich Holderlin in saying "man should maintain what he promised as a child". The XV Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops began on Wednesday. The Synod's theme is "Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment". Speaking during his homily at the open-air Mass in St. Peter's Square that inaugurated the 3-week Synod, Francis called on his brother bishops to heed the voices of young people in the effort to build a better world than that of their elders. He expressed his confidence in the new generations that, he said, "are capable of prophesy and vision" and prayed that the Holy Spirit may grant synodal Fathers the grace of being anointed with the youthful "gift of dreaming and of hoping." What to Know A Bronx man is suing the city for $1 million, claiming he was falsely arrested and illegally searched in March 2016 Otis Reese says surveillance video from inside a deli shows that officers set him up for an arrest on an open container charge Reese says he turned down offers to plead guilty to reduced charges; the NYPD and the DA say they can't comment on the sealed case Otis Reese is grateful his favorite deli has a surveillance camera. He says it saved him from what could have been years in prison after NYPD cops stopped the 30-year-old for walking down the street with an open beer. It was unopened in a brown bag, Reese told the I-Team in an exclusive interview. Reese has filed a $1 million notice of claim against New York City, claiming he was falsely arrested for a bogus reason and then illegally searched in March of 2016. Reese said he had bought beer down the street, then walked with the closed bottle in a bag to New Yorks Finest Deli on Third Avenue in the Melrose section to buy a sandwich. Reese said as he walked into the deli, he noticed two uniformed NYPD officers in an unmarked vehicle pull around the corner and park across the street. Surveillance video corroborates Reeses story that he placed the bag on the front counter of the deli so the owner knew he had purchased it somewhere else. The video shows the two officers, an officer and a sergeant, enter 20 seconds after Reese walks to the back counter. One of the officers later testified at a pretrial hearing that he had seen Reese carrying an open container on the street and never lost sight of him as he placed the bottle on the counter. The video shows the officers walk right past the front counter and head directly for Reese. He said they asked him where the beer was. The video shows one of the cops return to the counter, where he grabs the bag. Said Bruce Birns, a former Bronx D.A. prosecutor, now a defense attorney, "You see the arresting officer twist what appears to be the top; the top remains intact. It doesnt come off. It was never opened. There was no basis for the stop for an open container." Reese said, "They came back and said Im going to jail for an open container." Reese was handcuffed and later strip searched at PSA 7. Officers said they found several baggies of drugs and charged Reese with multiple felonies. Defense attorney Birns said he repeatedly requested the surveillance video but received only a portion. It did not contain the arrest inside the store or what happened when the officers left the deli, but Reese said what it does show cleared him. "I think the video made a real big difference because it shows clearly what the police do, set people up," he said. He denied that he had drugs. Birns said he asked for prosecutors to turn over the bottle. "I was told basically the police dont know where the bottle is. The officers in this case never vouchered the bottle, never took a picture of the bottle. To me that is totally irresponsible. One of the reasons alleged was that you cant bring alcohol into the precinct. Are you kidding me?" In July, one of the officers testified at a pretrial hearing that he could tell the bottle was open because he did not see a cap on the top. A judge wrote that the surveillance video contradicted that testimony: "This court rejects the officers testimony because it is absent logic." "It is clear that upon the officer 'twisting the cap' it does not move, let alone lift or come off the bottle," adding, "The officer could not explain why the surveillance footage clearly shows the defendant enter the deli with a capped container." The judge ruled that none of the evidence recovered by the NYPD could be introduced by the DAs office at trial. In August, the DAs office dismissed all the criminal charges against Reese, who said he turned down offers to plead guilty to reduced charges. Reese said he believed he was targeted because he had a prior run-in with the sergeant on the street and filed an internal affairs complaint. Both the NYPD and the DAs office said they couldnt comment on the case because it is now sealed but representatives told the I-Team the officers involved are not under investigation. "I was a target before and Im going to be a target now," said Reese, "but Im willing to speak out for the people that dont speak out." Birns said, "I dont know how anybody could look at this video and make a decision they wanted to pursue it. It was a patently illegal arrest that lasted in a two and a half year prosecution borne out of either indifference or obliviousness." What to Know A Jamaican citizen was arrested after attempting to smuggle in cocaine through JFK airport in Bailey's liquor bottles, authorities say On Sept. 28, CBP officers allegedly found cocaine wrapped in clear plastic bags within the bottles Akeem Rasheen Lewis was arrested and turned over to Homeland Security Investigations Special Agents for further investigation It was not a happy hour for an arriving passenger at John F. Kennedy International Airport who ended up getting arrested after he attempted to smuggle in pounds of cocaine inside liquor bottles, according to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Authorities say that on Sept. 28, Akeem Rasheen Lewis, a Jamaican citizen, arrived on a flight from Kingston, Jamaica. Allegedly, upon examination, CBP officers removed three bottles of Baileys liquor from Lewis duty free bag after they appeared to have been tampered with. Subsequently, Lewis taken to a private search room where CBP officers discovered white powder wrapped in clear plastic bags within the bottles, authorities say. A total of three packages containing nine pounds of cocaine with a street value of $115,000 were discovered, according to CBP. Lewis was placed under arrest and turned over to Homeland Security Investigations Special Agents for further investigation. Attorney information for Lewis was not immediately available. What to Know Three civilians and 11 firefighters were injured in a six-alarm fire in the East Village early Wednesday, officials say One of the hurt firefighters suffered serious injuries, but officials say he is expected to survive; all other injuries were minor Its not yet known what may have sparked the blaze; the building at the center of it, along with two neighboring ones, was evacuated Fourteen people were hurt, nearly a dozen of them firefighters, when a six-alarm fire erupted in the East Village early Wednesday, a blaze that took more than 200 FDNYers beyond 10 hours to knock down, authorities said. One firefighter was seriously hurt in what the FDNY described as a "stubborn" blaze, which broke out inside a five-story apartment building just before 2 a.m. on First Avenue, between East 11th and East 12th streets. Flames were still seen hours later, prompting the city to shut down two schools -- East Side Community High School and P.S. 19 Asher Levy. The fire started off as a three-alarm blaze burning on the first and second floors, but quickly went to a fourth-alarm and then went up again to a fifth-alarm around 5 a.m. Then it escalated to a sixth-alarm emergency. By 9 a.m., after seven hours, the FDNY had to pull crews from the building amid stability fears. Fire officials warned knocking down the blaze would be a "prolonged operation due to heavy construction and structural concerns of the building." It was under control by about 12:30 p.m., more than 10 hours after it broke out. Eleven firefighters were injured. One of them suffered serious injuries, but officials say he is expected to survive; all other injuries to firefighters were considered to be minor. Three civilians also suffered minor injuries. Others were seen wrapped in Red Cross blankets as they looked on. The entire building, along with two neighboring ones, was evacuated. Its not yet known what may have sparked the blaze. Commuters were urged to avoid the area. What to Know NJ Transit trains on the Morris & Essex line were delayed nearly two hours Tuesday evening after someone was struck and killed on the tracks Frustrated riders trapped on the trains demanded to know why trains were allowed to leave at all or why other arrangements weren't made The beleaguered agency is already struggling with service disruptions as it struggles to meet the federal PTC deadline NJ Transit trains on the Morris & Essex line experienced delays of nearly an hour and a half Tuesday as authorities responded to a trespasser death on the tracks, and frustrated commuters on stuck trains are demanding answers. NJ Transit first tweeted at around 6:20 p.m. that trains on the Morris & Essex line were delayed up to an hour in both directions because someone was hit and killed on the tracks near Brick Church. About an hour later, the rail tweeted that delays were at 75 minutes, and that NJ Transit buses were cross-honoring. Train pain has become an almost daily affliction for New Jersey Transit passengers, but news out of Newark today could mean a smoother ride however it may take a year to get there. Brian Thompson reports. But that didn't appease riders stuck either on trains or at stations. One News 4 New York viewer wrote in an email, "We are trapped on an NJ Transit train that left NY Penn at 5:39 p.m.... they have now held our train between stations for hours. They refuse to move forward or backwards to let us off. People are trying to open the doors to climb out onto the tracks." Customers were unleashing their fury at NJ Transit on Twitter, too, replying to the agency's latest tweet about the delays with frustration. "You need to create back up plans for incidents like this, instead of just allowing trains to sit here, create a system where all trains can get to a station and then provide buses," wrote one rider. New Jersey Transit got a ride on the hot seat with Gov. Phil Murphy calling the transit provider's situation a 'crisis.' Brian Thompson reports. "This incident happened way before the 6:56 Dover bound train was set to leave. Why did you allow the train to leave Penn Station without properly informing your customers? Such poor decision making on @NJTRANSIT. What a waste of everyones time," fumed another woman. "At least bring the stuck trains to the closest stations so people can get on with their lives and make alternate arrangements!" a customer wrote. "How long do passengers have to sit on a train before you have a plan to get them off? Been stuck between NY Penn and Newark for almost 2 hours," tweeted Sarah Silverstein. "There's pregnant women on the train!!! with disgusting and unusable bathrooms. What are you doing with my money every month!!!!! #njtransitsucks" NJ Transit said by 8:30 p.m. that trains were starting to roll again. The agency says there's no set time to deal with a trespasser strike, and that the response can depend on several factors, like when the medical examiner shows up, how long police need to investigate and other sensitive factors. What to Know A international traveler with measles may have exposed people at Newark Airport and three sites in Rockland County to the disease Anyone who was in the airport on Sept. 28 between 5:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. may have been exposed, the health department said The traveler may have also exposed people to measles at a synagogue, a sukkah and a health center in New Square in Rockland County A international traveler with measles may have exposed people at Newark Liberty International Airport and three sites in a Rockland County village to the disease, health officials said. The traveler from Israel flew through Newark Airport on Sept. 28, the New York State Department of Health said. Anyone who was in the airport on Sept. 28 between 5:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. may have been exposed to measles, and if infected could develop symptoms as late as Oct. 19, the health department said. [NATL] Images of America's 'Creepiest' Abandoned Mall in Missouri Between Sept. 28 and Oct. 1, meanwhile, the traveler visited three sites in New Square, a Hasidic village in Rockland County, the department said. The traveler visited Bais Medrash synagogue between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sept. 28, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Sept. 29, and between 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. on on Sept. 30, according to the department. Between noon and 4 p.m. on Sept. 28 and between 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 29, the traveler visited a sukkah adjacent to Avir Yakov Boys School, the department said. [Photos-NY Subscription Service] Consumer Reports Ranks America's Supermarkets From Best to Worst The traveler also visited Refuah Health Center between 11:30 p.m. and 2 a.m. on Sept. 29 and between 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 1, according to the department. Measles symptoms include a fever, rash, cough, conjunctivitis or runny nose and can appear as soon as a week after exposure or as late as three weeks afterward, the health department said. Anyone who may have been exposed to the travelers measles should contact their health care provider, a local clinic or an emergency department before they seek treatment, to keep people at those facilities from being exposed as well. [NATL-DC] These Images of the Abandoned Owings Mills Mall Will Give You Chills What to Know The police chief of a New Jersey suburb is fighting to keep his job following his suspension after threatening the former council president In recordings, Englewood Cliffs Chief Michael Cioffi allegedly threatened to kill the now former council president Carrol McMorrow Cioffi has filed a legal action to overturn his suspension The police chief of a northern New Jersey borough is fighting to keep his job following his suspension after recordings came to light of him saying hed like to kill the former council president. In the recordings, Englewood Cliffs Chief Michael Cioffi threatened to kill the now former council president Carrol McMorrow and also called her a derogatory name. She is one h--- of a b---h, let me tell you, Cioffi is heard saying in the recordings, as well as Id like to kill her, but I cant do that. Cioffi had to turn these recordings of himself over as part of a lawsuit deposition. I don't believe there's any reason that anybody should make a threat to anyone, McMorrow tells NBC 4 New York. However, what is occurring in this suburb is difficult even for lawyers to sort out. James Patuto, Cioffis attorney, boils the suspension down to small-town politics. Patuto says that Cioffi is embarrassed of his comments. Whether or not it was rude or shouldn't have been said or should have been said it was a joke that was made under an awful lot of tension, Patuto said. However, McMorrow, a Republican, resigned effective Monday, saying she has had enough, while blaming the Democratic council majority for failing to back her up at last weeks special meeting. This is not about being Republican or Democrat, this is about acceptable behavior and how to treat people and what's right and wrong, she says. For his part, Cioffi has filed a legal action to overturn his suspension. Aside from Cioffis suspension, he is also facing criminal charges for not returning the borough-owned tape recorder he used to make the recordings. The suspension is indefinite, until the charges against the chief can be adjudicated. The mayor has called for a special meeting of a divided council for Thursday morning concerning the matter. What to Know Trump ignited a crowd at a rally by mocking a woman who claimed she was sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh What if treatment could target the earliest brain changes while memory and thinking skills are intact, in hope of preventing Alzheimer's Chinese authorities have ordered actress Fan Bingbing to pay taxes and penalties totaling $130 million but would spare criminal prosecution Get the top headlines of the day in your morning briefing from NBC 4 New York, Monday through Friday. Sign up for our newsletter here. Trump Mocks Kavanaugh Accuser at Campaign Rally President Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi by mocking a woman who has claimed she was sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago. The audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Christine Blasey Ford's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She testified Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s, when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Ford's allegations. "How did you get home? 'I don't remember,'" Trump said at the rally Tuesday in Southaven. "How did you get there? 'I don't remember.' Where is the place? 'I don't remember.' How many years ago was it? 'I don't know. I don't know. I don't know.'" Imitating Ford, he added, "But I had one beer that's the only thing I remember." Emergency Alert Test Going Out to Mobile Phones Nationwide About 225 million mobile devices across the U.S. will receive a test emergency alert Wednesday. It's the first nationwide test for a wireless phone emergency alert. It will be sent at 2:18 p.m. EDT. The Federal Emergency Management Agency says it'll sound like an Amber Alert or flood warning. The subject will read: "Presidential Alert." The text will say: "THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed." A test of broadcast systems will happen at 2:20 p.m. EDT. FEMA officials say the test will last about a half-hour so some people may get it at different times. They expect about 75 percent of all wireless users to get the alert. The alert would be used in the event of a major nationwide emergency. Tax Department Reviewing Fraud Allegations Involving Trump in NYT Article New York state tax officials are investigating allegations detailed in an exhaustive New York Times investigation into Donald Trump and his family's business dealings. The Times reported Trump and his family committed "instances of outright fraud" in order to transfer millions of dollars from the real estate empire of the president's father, Fred Trump, to his children without paying the appropriate taxes. "The Tax Department is reviewing the allegations in the NYT article and is vigorously pursuing all appropriate avenues of investigation," a spokesman from the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance said in an email to CNBC. Representatives from the White House and the Trump Organization did not return requests for comment. Studies in Healthy Older People Aim to Prevent Alzheimer's It may be too late to stop Alzheimer's in people who already have some mental decline. But what if a treatment could target the very earliest brain changes while memory and thinking skills are still intact, in hope of preventing the disease? Two big studies are going all out to try. Clinics throughout the United States and some other countries are signing up participants the only studies of this type enrolling healthy older people. "The excitement in the Alzheimer's field right now is prevention," said Dr. Eric Reiman, executive director of the Banner Alzheimer's Institute in Phoenix, which is leading the work. Science so far has failed to find a drug that can alter the progression of Alzheimer's, the most common form of dementia; 146 attempts have failed over the last decade, a recent industry report found. Even drugs that help remove the sticky plaques that clog the brains of people with the disease have not yet proved able to stave off mental decline. The goal is to try to block the earliest steps of plaque formation. FDA Makes Surprise Inspection of E-Cigarette Maker Juul The Food and Drug Administration seized "thousands of pages of documents" in a surprise inspection of e-cigarette maker Juul's San Francisco headquarters last week, the agency said. The FDA is looking into the company's marketing practices as Commissioner Scott Gottlieb calls teen use of nicotine vaping devices an "epidemic." It builds on the agency's request in April for company materials related to how Juul products appeal to kids. The most recent inspection "sought further documentation related to Juul's sales and marketing practices, among other things," FDA said in a statement. Juul did not immediately have comment. China Orders Actress Fan Bingbing to Pay Massive Tax Fine Chinese tax authorities have ordered "X-Men" star Fan Bingbing and companies she represents to pay taxes and penalties totaling $130 million but would spare her from criminal prosecution, state media said. The announcement ended months of speculation over one of China's highest-profile entertainers since she disappeared from public view three months ago amid reports she was being investigated for tax fraud. Of the total amount, Fan is being personally fined around $70 million for tax evasion. The official Xinhua News Agency cited tax authorities as saying Fan would not be held criminally accountable for tax evasion as the taxes, fines and late fees amounting to nearly 900 million yuan ($130 million) were paid on time. The announcement, carried by Xinhua, gave no indication as to Fan's whereabouts but indicated her agent was being held by police for allegedly obstructing the investigation. List of Celeb Homes to Be Burgled Found Amid Stolen Goods As detectives made arrests in connection with recent burglaries at the homes of Los Angeles celebrities, a list of celebrities and athletes - plus their addresses - was discovered amid stolen purses, cash, firearms and more, police said. A small specialized group of gang members with a "bling ring" type of scheme were accused of burgling several Tinseltown celebrities' homes, Capt. Lillian Carranza, commanding officer of the Los Angeles Police Department's Commercial Crimes Division, confirmed at a news conference. While at first police believed the suspected thieves were targeting homes at random, they discovered that the crew was actually reviewing social media posts, touring and travel schedules to determine the best time to hit the home. The group would allegedly dress in button-down shirts and dress clothes, riding in luxury cars, to enter the neighborhoods where the rich and famous reside in order to scout potential homes, Carranza said. New FBI data shows there has been a spike in reported rapes in the four years since the agency changed its definition of rape, but experts remain unsure how to interpret the numbers. The FBIs annual crime report, released last week, showed an almost 20 percent increase in the number of reported rapes since 2013. The report adds to a growing national conversation about sexual assault incidents and reporting, following Christine Blasey Ford's accusations that Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her 36 years ago, allegations that Kavanaugh denies. Although the FBI data seems to show an increase in the number of rapes, on a more nuanced level, the new statistics reflect the struggles law enforcement agencies experience in quantifying incidents that often go unreported. The 2017 Crime in the United States report found a 19.4 percent increase in the number of reported rapes since 2013. It also shows a 0.9 percent decrease in the overall rate for violent crime compared to 2016, although the rate of violent crime has increased by 3.7 percent since 2013. The report was compiled using voluntarily provided records from local police departments. For more than 80 years, the agency defined rape as carnal knowledge of a female forcibly and against her will. In 2013, however, the FBIs Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program redefined rape by incorporating the concept of consent, removing forcible and specifying the type of acts involved. The agency now defines rape as the penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim. The new definition now includes male and female victims and offenders, and reflects the various forms of sexual penetration understood to be rape, especially non-consenting acts of sodomy, and sexual assaults with objects, the UCR staff said in a statement. Former FBI Director Robert Mueller spearheaded the change after an advisory board for the federal agencys Criminal Justice Information Services suggested a new definition would produce more accurate statistics, according to a FBI addendum. There were almost 135,800 reported incidents in 2017 under the revised definition, up 2.5 percent from 2016s number of reported cases. There were about 100,000 cases for 2017 under the older definition. In explaining these disparities, Laura Palumbo, the communications director for the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, said the old definition limited how police departments categorized reports of sexual violence. The older definition was problematic in that it seemed to not only exclude those other forms of sexual harassment and assault from the definition of rape, but it also seemed to suggest that wasn't important data to be capturing and that those cases were not important acts of crimes in the U.S., Palumbo said. Palumbo also said that rape survivors who do report their assaults to law enforcement often face officials who have limited thinking around the issue of sexual assault. Palumbo added that, because police officers are often the first responders to sexual assault victims, they should understand normal victim behavior, what is a normal reaction to trauma and the wide range of behaviors that fall under sexual harassment, assault and abuse." Although the definition has changed, some organizations refuse to include the FBIs rape statistics in their study of violent crime because the definition change makes it harder to interpret changes in the number of reports. Ames Grawert, a senior counsel at New York Universitys Brennan Center for Justice, said the law and policy institute analyzes all major types of violent crime except rape because of that reason and the fact that rape is notoriously underreported. We don't want to confuse increase in number of offences, which would of course be bad news, with an increase in reporting rates, which would be really good news, Grawert said. The Bureau of Justice Statistics estimated in its 2016 National Crime Victimization Survey that only 23 percent of rapes or sexual assaults are likely to be reported to law enforcement. The same survey showed 80 percent of motor vehicle thefts, 50 percent of household burglaries and 30 percent of thefts were likely to be reported in the same year. Palumbo listed a variety of factors that may prevent victims from reporting. They may mistrust law enforcement, Palumbo explained. They may be asked by friends, family or loved ones that theyve disclosed to not to make a report. But I think for most survivors of sexual assault it is the fear of not being believed or that their report will not be taken seriously. Palumbo said the #MeToo movement, which began to take hold on social media in October 2017, has addressed those fears by showing survivors of sexual violence that they are not alone and creating a sense of solidarity and support for them. Through that, weve seen public dialogue move forward in some pretty powerful ways, where people are talking about sexual harassment and assault as the widespread significant issues that research shows that they are, Palumbo said. Although Palumbo doesnt necessarily believe the movement has encouraged more victims to rely on law enforcement, she does think it has helped survivors share their stories, even if they dont officially report or pursue legal action. Palumbo reminded that the FBIs statistics only offer one piece of the puzzle in terms of understanding the high prevalence of sexual assault in our country. What to Know Melania Trump is shining a light on child welfare in Africa Her five-day, four-nation tour always includes stops in Malawi, Kenya and Egypt She visited Ghana's Cape Coast Castle, built by Swedes in the 17th century and which became a warehouse for Africans during the slave trade Melania Trump walked out the infamous "Door of No Return" at a onetime slave-trade outpost Wednesday and gazed over the crashing ocean waves that carried millions of Africans to lives of servitude. She later called her visit "a solemn reminder of a time in our history that should never be forgotten." "It's very emotional," she said. "The dungeons that I saw, it's really something that people should see and experience," she told reporters. The setting was Cape Coast Castle, a 17th century structure overlooking the Atlantic on the coast of the West African nation of Ghana. Swedes built the castle for use in the trade of timber and gold. But along the way it became a warehouse for Africans as they were rounded up and shipped to the New World and into lives of servitude. The castle is a familiar stop for U.S. dignitaries visiting Ghana. Then-President Barack Obama brought his family in July 2009. U.S. lawmakers have come, too. Adding her name to the list Wednesday was the wife of President Donald Trump, who isn't unanimously seen as a friend of Africa. Mrs. Trump arrived at the castle after a two-and-a-half hour drive over bumpy roads from the capital, Accra. The first lady spent a few minutes meeting privately with her guide, Kwesi Essel-Blankson, and getting an introductory history of the castle before they emerged into an open area in 80-degree heat and humidity. The two stood on an upper level before descending a staircase to walk along a stone path as waves crashed below. Essel-Blankson showed the first lady an old cannonball and then escorted her to the "male slave dungeon." They spent about 10 minutes inside the mostly dark, cramped holding area before the first lady walked down a pathway that led to the Door of No Return. It was through this door and others like it all along the coast of West Africa that Africans were loaded onto vessels that then took them across the Atlantic with little hope of ever returning to their homeland. Afterward, the first lady tweeted: "Day two in #Ghana was so impactful. My visit to Cape Coast castle was a solemn reminder of a time in our history that should never be forgotten." Before leaving the compound, the first lady laid a wreath, observed a moment of silence and signed a guest book, writing: "Thank you for your warm welcome." She called the castle "a special place." The first lady's visit was a lower-key affair than Obama's visit as the first black U.S. president, and reminders of his visit with wife Michelle were prominent. A marble plaque unveiled by Obama and his wife during their visit hung near the entrance to one of the dungeons. Before the visit, Mrs. Trump visited nearby Emintsimadze Palace to participate in a traditional ceremony where a regional tribe leader granted her permission to tour the palace. Obama had also been to the palace and his presence was documented there, too. The ceremony was held inside Obama Hall, a building on the palace grounds that was renamed after the former president's 2009 visit. A large photo of Obama greeting the chiefs hangs in the lobby. Mrs. Trump entered the hall following a procession of girls blowing horns. She was escorted to a high-backed chair alongside Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, chieftain of the Fante tribe, before an audience of fellow tribe members, U.S. Embassy staff and journalists. He called her "Your Excellency," and said: "We welcome you to Cape Coast and hope your short stay will be a memorable one." Mrs. Trump replied that she was "very honored" to be there, accepting a gift of Kente cloth and slippers as a remembrance of the trip. Mrs. Trump, who was born in Slovenia, is on her first visit to Africa, with a goal of highlighting child welfare on the continent. Her five-day, four-nation tour will also include stops in Malawi, Kenya and Egypt. (ANSA) - Brussels, October 3 - Italy's League/Five Star government is Euroskeptic and xenophobic, European Economic Affairs Commissioner Pierre Moscovici said Wednesday. "Like the Hungarians, also the Italians have opted for a decidedly Euroskeptic and xenophobic government which, on migrant and budget issues, is trying to get out of European obligations," he said. Moscovici was addressing a conference at the OECD's Paris HQ. What to Know The next campaign finance reports will be released Oct. 15, and is expected to show Hugin spent tens of millions in ads this summer. Democrats have long been excited about the prospects of retaking the U.S. House. Their chances of taking control of the Senate are longer. "If they suddenly lost New Jersey, then I think it's game over," political analyst Jennifer Duffy on Democrats' hopes for a Senate majority. A suddenly close race between New Jersey's incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez and the wealthy former pharmaceutical executive challenging him could end up dashing any hopes Democrats have of taking control of the Senate in the Nov. 6 midterm elections. Republican Bob Hugin spent all summer flooding the airwaves with political ads. Some observers believe he could eventually spend up to $40 million of his personal wealth in the bid to unseat Menendez. And his efforts are paying off. Two polls released in the first week of October show that Hugin has closed the gap with Menendez to only a few points. "You don't have to go too far back, like June, when a poll had Hugin down 17 points," said Al Gaburo, the Republican chairman in Somerset County. "This summer, Bob Hugin has really closed the gap. For him to be within the margin of error on Oct. 1 is really, really good news." It's not good news, however, for Democrats nationally. The improbable, but not impossible, prospects of a Democratic Senate majority requires incumbents like Menendez, who is seeking his third term, to win re-election and then defeating a few Republicans in toss-up races. "Their path to the Senate (majority) is tough to begin with," senior editor Jennifer Duffy of the non-partisan Cook's Political Report said. "If they suddenly lost New Jersey, then I think it's game over." Throughout the summer, excitement among Democrats centered on reclaiming control of Congress by flipping roughly 25 to 40 U.S. House seats from red to blue. A path to taking control of the Senate is more challenging, despite the current razor-thin 51-49 advantage for Republicans, because 26 of the 35 seats up for election are held by Democrats. Much effort is being exerted on toss-up races, with the expectation that a "blue wave" would carry the day for incumbents in states like New Jersey. Did that leave Menendez, who just last year faced a federal corruption trial, overlooked and vulnerable? AP "Most people thought Menendez would win despite his problems," Patrick Murray of the Monmouth University Polling Institute said in September. A poll by Farleigh Dickinson University released Oct. 3 found Menendez's lead is down to six points among likely voters. Hugin spent almost $9 million before the summer months even began heating up, according to his June 30 federal campaign filing. When the next campaign finance reports are made public in mid-October, some observers believe the tally may reach $25 million. And that'll be before the final five weeks are totaled. Menendez spent about $4 million, according to his June 30 filing. Hugin's willingness to use his own money to fuel his campaign has given the Republican Party's national leaders the luxury to spend money elsewhere. The former chief executive of Celgene, a New Jersey-based pharmaceutical giant, has long been involved in Republican cash flow. He was a top donor to Gov. Chris Christie during his eight years as governor and served as finance committee member for President Trump in 2016. Julio Cortez/AP He is a former Marine who went to Princeton University and comes from the same town as Menendez: Union City in Hudson County. Menendez, the son of Cuban immigrants, cut his teeth rising through the ranks of the Hudson County Democratic Party. He served as mayor of his hometown, then spent time in the New Jersey legislature and as a congressman before being elected to the Senate in 2006. He is the first Latino American to serve New Jersey as a senator. His resume from the 12 years in the Senate include a seat on the powerful Foreign Relations Committee and work as a liaison to Cuba during President Obama's move to re-establish diplomatic ties. Menendez also was part of the Gang of Eight, a bipartisan panel that worked on immigration reform in 2013. But Menendez is seeking voters' support a year after he fought federal corruption charges in a case that ended in mistrial. The trial played out over several weeks in late 2017, and gave Hugin plenty of political firepower for attack ads. Despite the one-sided spending on television ads, Democrats believed their 900,000-voter advantage in New Jersey would provide Menendez with enough of a cushion in an election year that many predict will be a referendum on the Trump administration's policies. In both of the recent polls of New Jersey voters, those surveyed said Trump plays a large role in both how they will evaluate the candidates on the ballot and how enthusiastic they are about voting. As has often been the case in the midterm elections of first-term presidents, what happened in the White House the previous two years looms large. Menendez's camp still sees a clear path to victory, his spokesman said. "There will be more ads, more concentration on TV, the internet on all the different platforms. He's certainly out there now and that's going to increase," campaign spokesman Steve Sandberg said. "His record really speaks for itself. We'll be able to remind people of his message and also compare and contrast him to Bob Hugin." If the polls, one conducted by Stockton University and the other by FDU, have given new urgency to Menendez's campaign, they have also excited Hugin's people. "Bob Hugin continues to gain momentum, while corrupt, career politician Bob Menendez remains one of the most unpopular incumbents in the country," said Campaign Manager Stacy Schuster. Duffy, the analyst for Cook's Political Report, believes Menendez remains the front-runner, if no longer a prohibitive favorite. Asked about the path to a Senate majority for Democrats, she said they must win six of the eight races that are looking like "Toss-ups" five weeks before the election. Four of those races involve Democratic incumbents: The other four include two Republican incumbents and two open seats previously held by Republicans: Like Menendez in New Jersey, nothing can be taken for granted in national politics between now and Nov. 6, Duffy said. Cook's currently has the New Jersey race as "Likely Democrat." "And the map is getting a bit more volatile, largely because of (the Supreme Court nominee) Brett Kavanaugh," she said. "Does Montana move to Toss Up? Does West Virginia move back? Do Democratic prospects dim in Tennessee and Texas?" For a complete layout of the 35 Senate seats on ballots in November, see a full breakdown here. What to Know A pilot program allows for speed cameras along Northeast Philadelphia's Roosevelt Boulevard and in work zones on state roads. The measure was approved by the Pennsylvania General Assembly. It allows for tickets up to $150 for going 11 mph above the posted speed limit. A warning for drivers who go above the speed limit on Philadelphias busy Roosevelt Boulevard, you could soon be nabbed by technology. Speed cameras could soon be installed along the boulevard. The Pennsylvania Senate approved the speed camera pilot program, Senate Bill 172, Tuesday. Gov. Tom Wolf is expected to sign the measure within the next 10 days, auto club AAA Mid-Atlantic said. Drivers will get a ticket if they go more than 11 miles an hour over the set speed limit, AAA said. The area covered by cameras runs between 9th Street and the Bucks County line and fines will be $150 or less and can vary depending if it is a first, second or subsequent offense. Warning signs must be posted and only warnings will be issued for the first 30 days, according to the measure. House Transportation Committee Chair Rep. John Taylor, R-Philadelphia, helped get the legislation passed in the State House. The multi-lane boulevard (U.S. Route 1) through Northeast Philly is one of the busiest and most dangerous stretches of highway in the city, AAA said. We believe automated speed camera systems, when implemented with AAA-supported motorist protections as outlined in SB 172, can contribute to the goal of reducing unnecessary fatalities and promoting traffic safety for all road users along Roosevelt Boulevard and in work zones across the state, said Jana Tidwell, manager of public and government affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic. At least 14 people have died so far in 2018 and the boulevard typically makes up at least 10 percent of Philadelphias road deaths, the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia said. The bike coalition applauded the passage of the speed camera legislation as part of the Vision Zero plan to make City roads safer. "This is a special victory for the residents of North Philadelphia who live near or drive on Roosevelt Boulevard," coalition executive director Sarah Clark Stuart said. "For too many years, this badly designed highway has allowed motorists to speed with impunity and cause fatalities that have wrecked families and communities." The bill also allows PennDOT to install speed cameras in work zones on state highways over a five-year trial period. In 2015 alone there were nearly 2,000 work-zone crashes, including 23 deaths, bill sponsors Sen. David Argall, R-Berks/Schuylkill counties, and Sen. Judith Schwank, D- Berks County, said. Weve heard from family members of highway workers who fear the lives of their loved ones, Argall said. We heard it loud and clear: protect the lives of workers and thats what this bill will do. In work zones, drivers exceeding the speed limit by at least 11 mph when workers are present will receive a written warning for the first offense, a $75 fine for the second offense and a $150 fine for third and subsequent offenses. The goal is to change driver behavior and make motorists think twice before speeding in work zones that puts their lives and the lives of innocent workers at risk, Argall added. NBC10 has reached out to Philadelphia officials to find out exactly how they plan to implement the boulevard speed cameras. What to Know Delaware school officers used a stun gun on a 17-year-old boy Monday morning, after he refused to comply with verbal commands. The school superintendent says that since the confrontation became more physical, "it became necessary" to stun the student. Delaware state police are still investigating. On Monday, a Delaware high school student who police say fought with two staff members was shot with a stun gun. Delaware State Police Master Cpl. Melissa Jaffe says the 17-year-old boy failed to comply with the Sussex Central High School resource officer's verbal commands Monday, and began striking, biting and grabbing the officer's gun belt. "It became necessary" for the officer to deploy the stun gun to subdue the teen, Indian River School District Superintendent Mark Steele said. According to WBOC-TV, Steele also said that such officers are trained in the use of Tasers and used them during this incident to ensure student and staff safety. The student did not have a weapon during the exchange. After being stunned, the student was taken into custody and then hospitalized for an evaluation. Steele commended the officers and staff members for their actions, saying they handled the situation "with professionalism." Delaware state police are investigating. What to Know A gunman in a white Chevy Impala killed one man and injured four others outside a Dollar General Store in Germantown. The gunman fired 18 shots, striking one victim in the head and the others in the hands, arms and feet. Right now police don't have a motive in the shooting but believe the five young men, ages 19 through 23, were targeted. A man was killed while four others were injured in a drive-by shooting outside a shopping center in the Germantown section of Philadelphia Wednesday afternoon. The five young men, ages 19 through 23, were outside a Dollar General store on Germantown Avenue and Wister Street around 3 p.m. when a white Chevrolet Impala pulled up in front of them, police said. A gunman inside the vehicle fired 18 shots. One of the victims was shot in the head. The other four were shot in the hands, arms and feet. "It wasn't like an argument or anything going on first," Timina Hughes, a witness, told NBC10. "It was just the shots came out of nowhere." All five victims were taken to the hospital. Police say a 20-year-old man who was shot in the head later died from his injuries. The other four men are expected to survive. Officials have not yet released a description of the suspect. "I can assure you it's about something stupid. Just like most things are," Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross said. "But right now we've got a lot of unanswered questions." Ross believes the five men were targeted. "They weren't just randomly shooting," Ross said. "They knew who they were shooting at. The question is why." If you have any information on the shooting, please call Philadelphia police. What to Know After being confronted with an unwanted intruder, a security guard fired a "warning shot" outside a Muslim cleric's compound in the Poconos. After the shot, the stranger fled; police were unable to locate him. The cleric, who has been blamed for a Turkish military coup but denied all allegations, remains at his home. A security guard at the Pennsylvania compound of a Turkish-born Muslim cleric fired a shot near an "unwanted person" outside the gate, state police said Wednesday. The suspected intruder fled the scene, and troopers were unable to find him. Police were called to Fethullah Gulen's longtime home in the Pocono Mountains after a security guard fired a "warning shot in the air" around 8:30 a.m., according to a statement from the New York-based Alliance for Shared Values, a group that promotes Gulen's philosophies. The man, "who appeared to be armed, attempted to enter the retreat center," and the guard responded by firing the shot, the statement said. No injuries were reported. State police said they are continuing to investigate. Turkey blames Gulen and his supporters for a July 2016 military coup attempt that killed 250 people. Gulen denies the allegations. Turkey has long demanded the cleric's extradition so he can stand trial, but Washington has told Turkey it must present convincing evidence for any extradition proceeding to go forward. Gulen, who's in his late 70s, has lived in self-exile for nearly 20 years on the grounds of the Golden Generation Worship & Retreat Center, an Islamic retreat founded by Turkish-Americans. Supporters of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have staged protests outside the gates, while Gulen's supporters have accused Turkey of plotting to kidnap Gulen. The Turkish government has dismissed the claim as "utterly false, ludicrous and groundless." "We urge the U.S. authorities to continue to hold Turkey accountable for its actions and threats against innocent people both here in the United States and abroad," said the statement from the Alliance for Shared Values. A former southern Oregon property owner has been charged with assault on a federal officer after authorities say an FBI agent sent to the property was shot from a booby-trapped wheelchair. Law enforcement officers responded to the home in the small town of Williams on Sept. 7 at the request of a real estate lawyer tasked with selling the property, The Oregonian/OregonLive reported Monday. A criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Medford, Oregon, said officers found traps throughout the property, from spike strips to a circular hot tub turned on its side and rigged to roll over anyone who triggered a tripwire. "[It was] much like a scene from the movie 'Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark' in which actor Harrison Ford is forced to outrun a giant stone boulder that he inadvertently triggered by a booby trap switch," the complaint said. After making it past the hot tub, according to the complaint, a bomb squad and FBI agent approached the property's manufactured home and blasted open the fortified front door. Inside the home a wheelchair outfitted with a fishing line, shotgun ammunition and other items got pushed and triggered the explosion that wounded the agent, according to court documents. An X-ray found a .410-guage shotgun pellet in the agent's leg, documents said. Authorities said the makeshift weapons were created by 66-year-old Gregory Rodvelt, who was forced to forfeit his property as part of an elder abuse case involving his mother. Rodvelt currently is in Arizona's Maricopa County Jail, where he is in the midst of an assault trial in a separate case related to an alleged armed standoff. He has refused a court-appointed defense lawyer, the Mail Tribune reported. Rodvelt had been in the Arizona jail since April 2017, but courts released him in mid-August for two weeks so he could prepare to turn over the property. In the weeks since the agent was injured, a team of private contractors consisting of former military experts has inspected the property, the real estate attorney said. A man is in custody Wednesday after slamming his pickup truck into the Dallas FOX television station, ranting and throwing leaflets before surrendering to officers, police say. At about 6:15 a.m., a man, identified by police as Michael Fry, crashed his pickup into the downtown Dallas TV station multiple times before he jumped out of the truck and began yelling, police said. Fry then grabbed a bag out of the truck and placed it near the building, police said, which prompted a bomb squad investigation. Fry eventually surrendered to police and his bag and truck were later cleared with no threatening devices found, police said. "The officers say he was rambling and saying all kinds of nonsense," said Cpl. Debra Webb, with the Dallas Police Department. "It appears he was in some sort of agitated state so we're not really sure exactly what the issue was and why he was doing that." Video from NBC 5's Texas Sky Ranger showed Wednesday's crash with papers littering the parking lot adjacent to the building. Police said the papers mentioned a local television station other than the FOX affiliate. NBC 5 News "It's concerning no matter what the building is or who's inside," Webb said. "We're really lucky today that no one was injured." Dallas police later said the papers Fry had with him were about an officer-involved shooting in another city and that he wasn't directly targeting the media with his attack. The name on Fry's flyer, Roberto Hernandez, is the same name as a man shot and killed in 2012 by a Denton County Sheriff's Deputy during a traffic stop. In the 2012 report, deputies said Hernandez and his passenger, Michael Chadwick Fry, would not exit the vehicle as ordered. Deputies said Hernandez put the car in reverse and rammed into the deputy's patrol vehicle. The deputy then fired into the car, killing Hernandez. After surrendering, Fry was taken to Parkland Hospital in Dallas for a medical evaluation. Following that, he was transported to the Dallas County Jail where he was charged with criminal mischief. Online Denton County records show that Fry has been booked into jail more than two dozen times since 2003 on a variety of crimes, including public intoxication and arson. The driver of a pickup truck filled with leaflets was arrested after he repeatedly rammed into the KDFW Fox 4 studios Wednesday morning. A bomb-sniffing dog checked vehicles parked in the studio parking lot and lots nearby. Dallas Area Rapid Transit said train and bus service that was suspended in the area has returned to normal operations. Military families in Tierrasanta say they feel left out of planning for their communitys future. The Tierrasanta Community Planning Board only allows them one representative, but that representative cannot vote. Samantha Carlson and her baby Emmett love Tierrasanta. Theyve been on a long waitlist just to live in the Lincoln military housing there. We love the community. We love our neighbors, we love everything that's close by. We waited a while to get here so we don't plan on going anywhere, Carlson tells NBC 7. She says she was surprised to learn the military community doesnt get a vote on the planning board. Well, as military families we might only be here for a temporary amount of time but doesn't discount our vote or our opinions or how we feel about the community, Carlson says. So I think it's important that we're included." Board President Jan Whitacre says they've tried to reach out to the military community for years, but they never appointed a representative. Whitacre says even though the representative wouldn't have a vote, they would a say in how the community is shaped. In response, the city of San Diego is promising staff help to make sure the military community is heard. It released a statement saying in part: "It is essential that community planning groups acknowledge the importance of all voices within the community and facilitate an environment where all segments of the community can come together to discuss issues. The planning group typically meets once a month at the Tierrasanta Recreation Center. As somebody who does like to participate in voting options, and does want to be a part of the community, I think it's important that the oversight is looked at." The planning board president says so far one person has expressed interested in the position and the president is working to get that person appointed. The next meeting is scheduled for Oct. 17. Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson and Republican challenger Gov. Rick Scott clashed on everything from gun control to the economy and even the Supreme Court nomination of Brett Kavanaugh during their first and only debate for Florida's U.S. Senate seat, hosted by Telemundo 51 Tuesday. The exclusive debate aired in Spanish on Telemundo 51 and online on Telemundo51.com, and in English on NBC6.com. The debate is the only one between Nelson and Scott that will air in the Spanish language. Telemundo 51 senior political reporter Marilys Llanos and NBC 6 senior news anchor Jackie Nespral served as moderators. Some of the strongest exchanges came when the candidates were asked about the bitter battle over Judge Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to the Supreme Court. Nelson said he would be voting no while Scott said he was supporting Kavanaugh's nomination. "The judge in his response, there was just not the temperament that is needed of what you want to put someone on the highest court in the land," Nelson said. "The way the U.S. Senate has handled this is a circus, it's more like a Jerry Springer show," Scott said. "Sen. Nelson is a partisan politician, that all he does is attack Republicans and defend Democrats." "You know governor, you just can't tell the truth. Everything that you have said here, and that's why newspapers in this state are on to you, that's why they say you're a walking conflict of interest," Nelson responded. Throughout the debate, Scott claimed Nelson did little during his decades in office. Nelson said Scott was lying about his positions on a number of issues. Both Nelson and Scott immediately went on the attack over the first question about immigration. Nelson said he wants comprehensive immigration reform, and claimed Scott wanted to bring an Arizona immigration law that was later deemed unconstitutional to Florida. Scott claimed Nelson wants open borders and has done nothing on immigration during his time in the Senate. "My opponent had been up there for over 42 years, he had time to do this and he never got anything done," Scott said. On gun control, Nelson said he supports more comprehensive background checks and taking assault rifles off the street. Scott said he supports background checks and has been focused on the mental health issues related to guns. On jobs and the economy, Scott said Nelson supports higher taxes and more regulation that he said "kills the economy." Nelson said he would like to raise Florida's minimum wage to at least $12, if not $15. On environmental issues, Scott said he has directed the state to spend millions on Florida's recent red tide issues while Nelson hasn't received federal funding for algae bloom problems. Nelson claimed Scott has drained funding from environmental agencies during his time as governor, leading to more pollution in the water supply. "He has systematically in his eight years as governor, systematically disassembled the environmental agencies in this state," Nelson said. "His record is very clear on the environment." Scott is challenging the incumbent Nelson for his Senate seat in November. The most recent NBC News/Marist poll had Nelson leading Scott 48-45 percent among likely voters, with six percent undecided. Many questions from the moderators dealt with Cuban relations, the situation in Venezuela and repression in Nicaragua. Both Scott and Nelson sought to underscore their support for helping Puerto Rico recover from Hurricane Maria, with Nelson noting that he was just endorsed Monday by the island's governor, Ricardo Rossello. Both campaigns have strongly courted Puerto Ricans, an important voting bloc in Florida. Scott noted that he has visited Puerto Rico eight times since the storm and has taken numerous steps to help, including dispatching National Guard troops, making it easier for Puerto Ricans in Florida to register for school and providing them an in-state tuition waiver for college. "It was never about politics, it was about helping our fellow citizens," Scott said. Nelson, however, said the administration of President Donald Trump "has treated Puerto Rico and its people as second class citizens." The administration's response to the hurricane, he added "has been terrible and everybody knows that." The two also differed on the Affordable Care Act, which Nelson wants to keep and strengthen, but Scott calls deeply flawed and costly. Stafford County officials issued a boil water alert for areas in the southern part of the county late Tuesday night. Officials said the alert was due to complications from a water main break in the area. Residents in the following areas are "strongly advised" to boil their water before consuming, or to use bottled water: south of Eskimo Hill Road east of Interstate 95 in the areas of Mountain View Road and Ramoth Church Road Residents can use water for washing clothes or non-consumption without boiling it first, officials said. "Stafford Utilities is following Virginia Department of Health protocols in testing the water in the affected area as well as the rest of the county," officials said in a release on the county's website posted shortly after 11:30 p.m. Tuesday. There was no issue with water in the rest of the county, they said as of late Tuesday. The alert is expected to be in effect for two to three days. Officials will post updates on the county's website and on its Facebook and Twitter accounts. Safety tips are available on the Virginia Department of Health's website. (ANSA) - Rome, October 3 - United States Ambassador to Rome Lewis Eisenberg told an ANSA Forum on Wednesday that "the current government in Italy is the quintessence of democracy in action". The American diplomat added: "aside from what each one of us thinks, the recent elections in Italy showed that the people have spoken. This is democracy". What to Know On Aug. 17 a man called the school asking for his ex-girlfriend, who worked there, and later told her by phone he was going to shoot her. The threat was reported to the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office Aug. 20, and the man was arrested and charged the next day. Parents didn't get their first email from the principal until Sept. 24. Some parents of students at a Virginia elementary school are outraged about how a recent threat was handled, saying they were kept in the dark about why a sheriffs deputy was posted at the school. Parents of Lucketts Elementary School students began to ask questions when they noticed the deputy was assigned to the school every day. We were told that there is no threat and we are safe and we should be grateful we have the sheriff, PTA President Amy Tribie said. Parents did some investigating of their own and learned on Aug. 17 a man called the school asking for his ex-girlfriend, who worked there, and later told her by phone he was going to shoot her. The threat was reported to the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office Aug. 20, and the man was arrested and charged the next day. When you ask them point blank is there a threat made on the place where my children are going and told no and you find out thats lie completely unacceptable, Tribie said. Parents didn't get their first email from the principal until Sept. 24. It read, in part, "This security measure was enacted, purely out of an abundance of caution, as a result of a domestic issue involving a staff member. I want to assure you Lucketts Elementary is safe. Then, after several parents notified the principal they'd be keeping their kids home, another email was sent, explaining, "The staff member involved in this matter is away from Lucketts Elementary. The man accused of the threat was acquitted, but a no trespass order remains in place barring him from Lucketts Elementary and all school grounds. The deputy will remain on site for the time being. The PTA will vote Wednesday on a proposal to seek a schoolwide safety audit and to get a full-time school safety officer. Loudoun School officials are still evaluating the way parents were notified and declined to comment Tuesday. Multiple airline passengers reported being stranded at airports, including Washington Dulles International Airport, this week after a discount airline filed for bankruptcy and stopped all flights. The Danish airline Primera Air, which offered low-cost flights from northern Europe to the United States, announced their closure on Monday after 14 years of operation. Traveler Clare Robson visited New York from Birmingham, England, last week for a drag queen convention and went to Newark Liberty International Airport on Monday. Looking for her flight on the airport display screens, she was shocked to see that it wasn't there. Robson, 39, had not heard the news of the bankruptcy. Primera Air didn't send her anything, she said, and she was angry. "Just the fact that there was no correspondence from Primera Air that said 'Your flight was cancelled,'" she said by phone. Airport employees told Robson she would need to find another way home. She was stranded for five hours and finally boarded another flight after spending more than $800 for the cost of her new one-way plane ticket, a taxi to John F. Kennedy International Airport and a train ticket home. Primera offered one-way tickets for $199. There is no sign that Robson will receive any refund for her cancelled flight, and she discovered that her insurance would not cover the cost. Other passengers said they were stranded at Dulles, in New York and in Paris. One woman was stranded at Dulles and forced to ask for money from friends and family to try to get home to England, she told Business Insider. A Canadian woman was in line to board a plane from Paris to Toronto when she heard an announcement saying the flight had been cancelled. She and her husband also scrambled to find another way home, she told the BBC. Primera Air said in a statement that the day of their closure was a "sad day" and an "enormous disappointment." They cited trouble with financing, the loss of an aircraft because of corrosion problems and delayed deliveries of new planes. What to Know Homeowners say they signed contracts and paid deposits for solar panels but were then asked for more money before any work was done. Several homeowners say a Virginia solar energy company isnt honoring their contracts. Ryan Wagener decided to invest in solar energy for his Arlington home to save money. Tim Manning wants solar panels on his retirement home in Bluemont. They hired Independent Solar Solutions. Both say they signed a contract, paid a deposit and then, weeks later, before any work started, company president Niko Eckart asked for more money. This is for the supplies, for the actual solar panels, Manning said. He said they wanted the money before ordering the panels, but in the company's own contract, it specifically says, "It's against the law for a contractor to collect payment for work not yet completed or for materials not yet delivered." Neither Manning nor Wagener noticed that and said they paid the company thousands more. Almost a year later, neither has solar panels. "They have just over $17,000 of my money," Wagener said. NBC4 Responds called and emailed Eckart and his business partner, Michael Geaneas, numerous times, and they didn't respond. At Eckarts home, he said to find him at his office instead, but the Ashburn address on the company website is occupied by a different business. At the Leesburg address Geaneas uses in his email signature, there was an Independent Solar Solutions trailer in his driveway, but no one answered the door. Aaron Sutch's organization, Solar United Neighbors, represents homeowners who want to go solar. He said he's heard from at least five homeowners who say the company isn't honoring their contracts. It was just something that came as a surprise to us, and again, I think were really expecting them to come around and to meet the standards that we see in the solar industry in Virginia, he said. Independent Solar Solutions eventually sent News4 a statement about Manning's complaint, saying, Independent Solar Solutions has maintained the position of refunding Mr. Manning's money or completing the project. The company plans on resolving this with Mr. Manning. That's the fourth time I've heard that, Manning said. Wagener said he hopes sharing his story will have a positive outcome. This has the potential to be embarrassing in a different way in public to a certain extent that maybe you warning them that we're going to do this and you have an opportunity to fix it, he said. Makes them look like good guys in the end. Geaneas acknowledged receiving an email from NBC4 Responds but did not provide a statement about Wageners contract. Independent Solar Solutions contractor's license is still active. The Virginia Attorney General's Office has three complaints filed against this company. Reported by Susan Hogan, produced by Meredith Royster and edited by Perkins Broussard. A 72-year-old woman was attacked Saturday afternoon in a Market Basket parking lot in Danvers, Massachusetts, and she says it stemmed from an argument over a handicapped parking space. Elaine Moore-Ouellette says she was waiting for a spot and a woman pulled in and took the space. There were words exchanged, but that's it. The woman says she then took her cane, put it into a shopping cart and headed into the store. "While we were in between the two set of doors, she said something and I turned around and she hit me right on my face," said Moore-Ouellette. "Blood pouring down." Court documents show the suspect, Donna Rowe, took off, but workers from the market were able to get her car's license plate and she was taken into custody. Rowe was arraigned Monday on assault and battery charges. Police say she has a lengthy criminal record, including 83 arraignments. Rowe would not talk to NBC10 Boston on camera, but insists she was the one punched first, though she is very sorry she hurt the elderly woman. Officials are urging caution for North Andover, Massachusetts residents Columbia Gas purges gas on Wednesday. The natural gas service, which provides service to the Merrimack Valley towns that were devastated by a series of explosions, said the purging will take place near the intersection of Waverly Road and 274 Waverly Road. North Andovers Fire Chief was alerted of the plan and has a safety team present in response, according to the towns police department. Pedestrians will be detoured to avoid the area. Police said the purging is expected to last 12 hours. The work is continuing Tuesdays efforts to purge gas in the town. On Sept. 13, several explosions rattled the Merrimack Valley and caused fires to up to 80 homes in the area. One teenager was killed, 25 people were injured and approximately 8,600 residents were displaced as a result. In response to the tragedy, the National Guard handed out thousands of hot plates and space heaters to evacuees while crews work on replacing 48 miles of gas pipelines in the area by Nov. 19. Affected residents are able to apply for financial assistance from the Greater Lawrence Disaster Relief Fund as of Wednesday. Some residents in a Concord, Massachusetts neighborhood were evacuated as a precaution Wednesday afternoon due to a hazmat situation at a nearby building. The leak was reported just after 1:30 p.m. at The Umbrella Community Arts Center on Stow Street. Authorities said a large propane tank was somehow damaged at the building which is currently under construction. Concord Fire Chief Thomas Judge, who happened to be in the building with inspectors, heard the hissing from the tank, smelled the propane and called for backup. "One of the contractors started yelling 'everyone get out of the building'," Judge recalled. "As soon as we got outside we knew there was a propane tank out there. Before we got downstairs somebody had identified it was a propane tank that was struck and as soon as we got outside we could hear it." Authorities said a valve had come off of the one-thousand-pound tank, which is partially underground. "The hazard is very similar to natural gas. That's the hazard. The hazard is that it's an explosive gas," said Judge. As a precaution, a nearby condominium complex was evacuated and traffic was detoured around the area. Authorities off-gassed the tank to remove the propane. Once it was complete, the residents were able to return home. The Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) is the recipient of a three-year, $450,000 grant to be used to enhance the departments response to and support of victims of crime in Chattanooga. The Law Enforcement-Based Victim Services Grant comes from the U.S. Department of Justice's Office for Victims of Crime (OVC). With over $20 million in total funds for the grant, the OVC expects to award 40 law enforcement agencies across the United States. The CPDs Victim Services Unit will use the grant to support direct victim assistance by hiring two full-time Crisis Response Advocates (CRA) who will focus on reaching victims in high-crime areas and improving services to them. The CRAs will respond to the emotional, psychological, and/or physical needs of crime victims, and offer referrals to other community resources to help meet these needs. They will also assist victims to understand and participate in the criminal justice system, and be aware of their rights as a victim of crime, and how to exercise those rights. The Crisis Response Advocates will work alongside officers in the Neighborhood Policing Bureau to provide on scene support and services to victims of crime, said Chief David Roddy. Because of this grant, we are able to expand resources to more people in our community who need assistance and support during a time where theyre likely feeling violated and vulnerable. The Chattanooga Police Department was recently awarded a Victim of Crime Act Grant (VOCA) by the State of Tennessee. The three-year $600,000 pass-through grant allows for Victim Support Services to continue for victims of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, and victims of violent crimes over the next three years. This grant also allows CPD to hire an bilingual (Spanish/English) advocate to join the Victim Services Unit which currently consists of two advocates and one supervisor/advocate. While VSU advocates primarily serve to assist victims and survivors of crime through a difficult time, we also support CPD officers who are working to hold perpetrators accountable said CPD Victim Services Coordinator Caroline Huffaker. Working together in this way helps the victims and survivors of crime, the officers who are working diligently to make a case, and the community as whole become a safer place. The OVC Law Enforcement-Based Victim Services grant and the VOCA grant do not require any match by the City of Chattanooga. Salaries, benefits, and equipment are funded by the respective grants. (ANSA) - Naples, October 3 - A migrant woman and her two-year-old son who have just returned from Bangladesh were registered in Naples as having cholera on Wednesday. The mother and son are resident at Sant'Arpino near Caserta, the Cotugno Hospital said. "The family contacts have been identified and are now under strict medical observation. The situation is completely under control," said hospital commissioner Antonio Giordano. They are believed to be the first cases of cholera in Italy since 2008, while Europe registers dozens of cases of imported cholera a year. As the candidates who want to be governor of Vermont voice differing views on the minimum wage, some employers locally and nationally are saying theyre not waiting for mandated wage increasesand are moving forward with raises for workers. Paychecks are back in the headlines this week after Amazon announced all its workers, even part-timers, will make at least $15 an hour starting next month, more than doubling the federal minimum of $7.25. The policy will also apply to subsidiaries, such as Whole Foods, the company announced. It could well beand I think it will bea shot heard around the world, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vermont, said Tuesday after the announcement from Amazon. I hope very much that other corporate leaders around the country will follow [Amazons] example. Sanders has long advocated for increases to the federal minimum wage and was a sponsor of legislation introduced last year to increase the federal minimum to $15 an hour. Target, which will soon open its first store in Vermont, has announced itll give its workers a raise to at least $15 an hour by 2020. Vermont Creamery, a maker of goat cheese and premium butter, said its employees start out earning at least $15.65 an hour, more than $5 above Vermonts current minimum wage of $10.50. Company president Adeline Druart calls a livable wage part of the brands core values. Our strength is our people, Druart told necn. When people buy Vermont Creamery products, they not only expect a great product, but they also expect great behavior from the company. Vermonts minimum wage has emerged as a hot topic on the campaign trail for Vermont governor. Gov. Phil Scott, a Republican, vetoed a bill earlier this year that wouldve lifted Vermonts minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2024. Scott said at the time that he believed the move would hurt small businesses in rural pockets and along the border with New Hampshirewhere theres lower pay pegged to the federal minimum and no sales tax. That combination in New Hampshire, Scott said, means lower costs on businesses that can often lure shoppers away from Vermont. Despite his veto, Scott said hed very much like to see workers earn moreexplaining he believes increases should happen through market forces or through laws enacted at the federal level. Supply and demand works, Scott said, noting that he has seen many Vermont employers offer strong wages and benefit packages in order to attract workers. I would prefer, if [lawmakers] are going to raise the minimum wage, they do it on the national level. I think its high time that they did take action, from $7.25 to something more. Scotts Democratic challenger, Christine Hallquist, has been sharply critical of the governors veto of the bill that wouldve lifted wages. Phil has no plan to take care of everyday Vermonters, Hallquist charged this week. We do. Hallquist has pledged support for the bill Scott blocked, which would have incrementally increased the minimum wage in the state year by year until reaching $15 in January of 2024. We havent seen real wage growth since the early 80s, Hallquist argued Tuesday, adding her belief that increasing wages should be a societal value. Back at Vermont Creamery, Druart noted future raises are in the pipeline. Were not going to stop at $15.65, the company president told necn, revealing there are already plans to pay at least $17 an hour by 2021. With 10 open positions Vermont Creamery is eager to fill, Druart said she hopes higher wages also attract strong applicants who could become loyal employees. About 40 percent of students who received free college tuition in the first year of a new program in Rhode Island have earned the scholarship for a second year. Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo visited Tuesday with students benefiting from the program she created at the Community College of Rhode Island. College officials say that out of roughly 725 students who received the full scholarship last year, about 300 met the criteria to get it again. They say there has been an increase in the percentage of students on track to graduate in two years. Raimondo says while it's still early, she thinks the program will prove to be "the most successful intervention ever in America to increase graduation rates." Republican gubernatorial nominee Allan Fung wants to dramatically reform the program. A Rhode Island man has pleaded no contest to abusing a 5-month-old baby. The state attorney general's office says 27-year-old Kristofer Bernier, of Woonsocket, was sentenced to serve seven years of a 15-year prison sentence with the remainder suspended with probation. He was charged with second-degree child abuse in connection with injuries sustained by the child in March 2017. Authorities say Bernier initially told police the baby had fallen off a couch while he was baby-sitting for the parents. He later admitted he had "lost it" because the baby wouldn't stop crying and struck the child several times and dropped the baby on a coffee table and the floor. The child suffered a fractured skull, retinal hemorrhages and multiple bruises and spent two months in the hospital recovering. What to Know Gov. Andrew Cuomo has thwarted Cynthia Nixon's attempt to become the latest insurgent liberal to knock off an establishment Democrat Cuomo, who always led in the polls and outspent his rival more than 8 to 1, seldom mentioned Nixon by name during an often-nasty campaign With registered Democrats outnumbering Republicans more than 2 to 1 in NY, Cuomo becomes the automatic front-runner in the general election Gov. Andrew Cuomo easily beat back a primary challenge from activist and actress Cynthia Nixon on Thursday, thwarting her attempt to become the latest insurgent liberal to knock off an establishment Democrat. Cuomo, who always led in the polls and outspent his rival more than 8 to 1, seldom mentioned Nixon by name during an often-nasty campaign, instead touting his experience, achievements in two terms as governor and his work to push back against President Donald Trump. In his moment of victory, Cuomo was oddly silent, skipping his own election-night party in Manhattan to celebrate with family at the governor's mansion in Albany. He put out a tweet that said simply "Thank You New York." His campaign declined to issue a statement. "It's New York's obligation to stand up and lead and lead against a lot of these changes in Washington that are totally opposite of who we are as New Yorkers and what we believe," he said earlier at his Westchester County polling place. "There is a divisiveness coming out of Washington that I think is cancerous to this nation." Thursday's results were good across the board for Cuomo, whose preferred candidates for lieutenant governor and attorney general also survived contentious primaries. And despite Nixon's loss, liberals celebrated victories for several left-leaning challengers who ousted longtime legislative incumbents. Click here to track results live in NY's other primary races. With registered Democrats outnumbering Republicans more than 2 to 1 in New York, Cuomo becomes the automatic front-runner in November's matchup with Republican Marc Molinaro and independent Mayor Stephanie Miner. Nixon, a longtime education activist and actress best known for her Emmy-winning role as lawyer Miranda Hobbes on HBO's "Sex and the City," was counting on a boost from liberals looking to oust establishment politicians. She called herself a democratic socialist and pointed to recent congressional primary victories by New York's Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Massachusetts' Ayanna Pressley as evidence that underdog challengers can defy the odds. When that didn't happen, Nixon thanked supporters and credited her campaign for helping to push Cuomo to the left and show that liberals have a shot at making big changes. "Before we take our country back we have to take our party back," she said. "This is an incredible moment for progressives but it's not just a moment. It's a movement." Cuomo, who won with about 65 percent of vote, secured endorsements from Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden and even Nicki Minaj, and spent much of the race touting his own liberal accomplishments such as same-sex marriage, gun control and paid family leave. And he increasingly made the race about pushing back against Trump and other Republicans. At the same time, he dismissed Nixon as a naive dilettante and mocked her work as an actress. "If it was all about name recognition," he said earlier this year, "then I'm hoping Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie and Billy Joel don't get into the race." Despite the rhetoric, Cuomo took Nixon seriously, spending $8.5 million, largely on ads, in the final weeks of the campaign to answer attacks that he has not invested enough in New York City's beleaguered subway system and failed to deliver on upstate economic development promises. There were indications that the 52-year-old Nixon's aggressive campaign pushed the incumbent governor to the left on several issues, including legalizing marijuana and addressing crumbling public housing in New York City. "Cuomo is no idiot," said Fordham University political scientist Christina Greer. "The winds of change right now are with insurgent candidates and not necessarily with incumbents. ... He didn't just slightly pivot, he full-on leapt to the left." While he may have won, Cuomo, a former U.S. housing secretary and son of the late Gov. Mario Cuomo, did not escape the primary unscathed. During the campaign's only debate, Cuomo snuffed out speculation that he might run for president in 2020, pledging to serve a full four-year term if re-elected. He was mocked for saying America "was never that great" during remarks criticizing Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan. He invited Clinton to a celebratory opening of the final span of the new Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge over the Hudson - only to keep the bridge closed after engineers warned that pieces from the old, largely disassembled Tappan Zee Bridge could hit the new structure. Cuomo claimed to have no knowledge of a Democratic Party mailer that questioned Nixon's support for Jewish people - despite Cuomo's control of the party and a recent $2.5 million contribution to its campaign operations. Cuomo's spokeswoman later acknowledged that two former aides volunteering on the campaign were behind the piece. Nixon, who is raising two of her children in the Jewish faith, demanded an apology that never came. In the Democratic primary for lieutenant governor, incumbent Kathy Hochul, a former congresswoman from Buffalo, defeated challenger Jumaane Williams, a New York City councilman who had promised if elected to serve as a check on Cuomo. Cuomo's pick for attorney general, New York City Public Advocate Tish James, won a four-way Democratic primary. Nixon now must decide whether she wants to run on the November ballot as a candidate for the third-party Working Families Party, thanks to a New York state law that allows candidates to run on multiple ballot lines. Early in the campaign, Nixon said she would stand aside if she lost the Democratic primary, but it remains to be seen whether the party can remove her name from the ballot. (ANSA) - Vatican City, October 3 - Pope Francis got emotional in greeting two bishops from China, present for their first time at a Synod, during the homily of a Mass in St Peter's Square Wednesday. Francis stopped his homily because of the emotion and then resumed after getting an encouraging round of applause from the thousands of faithful in the square. The Vatican recently reached a deal with China on the appointment of bishops. The pontiff, in opening the Synod on young people, said "Let us not be suffocated by our sins". He also said "let us not leave young people in the hands of merchants of death". The pope also quoted German poet Friedrich Holderlin in saying "man should maintain what he promised as a child". BRIDGEPORT In this Democratic town, could Sauda Barakas prominent role in a minor party cost the community activist her longtime seat on the library board? The all-Democratic City Council on Monday delayed a vote on Barakas reappointment after learning she is chairman of the Bridgeport-branch of the Working Families Party, which has over the years has challenged the citys establishment politicians. Baraka joined the library board in the early 1990s. She sailed through her September interview for reappointment with a council subcommittee. But Councilman Ernie Newton successfully asked that Mondays vote on Baraka be delayed so she could be re-interviewed. Newton told his council colleagues that Baraka, though a registered Republican, runs the Working Families in Bridgeport. Mario Testa, Bridgeports Democratic boss, once called the third party a greater threat than the citys badly outnumbered GOP. The Working Families local influence has waxed and waned over the years. Freshman Councilman Kyle Langan, who has been cross-endorsed by the Working Families, told Newton: I dont know political allegiance is a reason not to have someone on a commission. ... The fact shes a minor party is a strength. Newton, who previously called for term limits for municipal board members, then said Baraka has served for too long. In an interview on Wednesday, Newton insisted, It doesnt have anything to do with her being (Working Families) party chairman. We dont care about that. What I do care about is people serving lifetime appointments, Newton attended the initial subcommittee interview with Baraka, but had to leave early. He wants a chance to question her. Langan, one of only four council members who opposed stalling Barakas re-appointment, said he was willing to give Newton the benefit of the doubt. It did seem to me, originally ... we were sending this individual back because they might be the chair of a party that wasnt the Democratic Party, Langan said. Baraka on Wednesday said she took over Bridgeports Working Families Party last year. While the party often supports Democrats, it cross-endorsed the Republican Baraka when she sat on the Board of Education. Baraka noted she is not required to change her registration to hold a leadership position with the Working Families as long as she shares the third-partys ideals. Baraka said she wished Newton had originally been present to ask his questions, but also that she has no problem attending another interview. Council President Aidee Nieves supported Newtons request to send Barakas reappointment back to committee. Nieves said Wednesday, I know it came off as a political thing, but I think his whole thing is shes (Baraka) been there for so long. I explained the work I had done and am doing and things I want to make sure are completed, Baraka recalled of her first interview. (Council members) seemed satisfied with my answers. NEW MILFORD Improving public transportation, ensuring a state cut to the schools funding doesnt happen again and closing the $2 billion deficit are some of the big issues the candidates will tackle if elected to the state House 67th District. Republican incumbent Bill Buckbee, 46, is vying for his second term and is the executive director at Harrybrooke Park. He faces Democrat Tom OBrien, 59, a carpenter. Both are from New Milford, which is the only town in the district. Last year, New Milford received a $2.2 million cut in state funding, with most of it allocated for the schools. The cut prompted the town and schools to lay off people and not fill vacancies, as well as hold off on spending. Both candidates said they would work to ensure that didnt happen again. Buckbee said the cut came from the governors office, and the way to prevent a repeat is to work with whoever is in that position, regardless of party. OBrien said he would refuse to vote for a budget that included a cut for the town. OBrien said its important to invest in education at all levels and said the government needs to fund state colleges like they did when he was in school. He said the tuition increase coincides with the cuts in government investment and millennials have to pay hundreds of dollars each month for student loans to state universities. New Milford residents and officials have been trying to get passenger rail back for decades. Buckbee introduced legislation in the past two sessions, but neither was successful. He acknowledged it wasnt a quick fix, but hes gained support and is working to help get federal funding. He said its more cost-effective to upgrade the rail from Danbury to New Milford for passenger service than to electrify the Danbury line. Im going to stay on board with the train fight and do that for New Milford, Buckbee said. OBrien said he fully supports passenger rail, but proposed taking it a step further by improving public transportation as a whole, including improving and expanding the Housatonic Area Regional Transit system. He said public transportation needs to include multiple alternative forms, such as bike racks at train stations, to expand the options. Both said a change in spending and attracting businesses is needed to help close the $2 billion deficit. Neither had specific state cuts or efficiencies in mind to save money, but Buckbee said he plans to look at how state employees are doing private jobs while on paid leave from the state. OBrien said he also likes the idea of extending the debt payment plan. Buckbee proposed a tax incentive to companies for retaining employees, offering a certain percentage of the employees salary when they hit a year, with the percentage increasing if the employee was unemployed or a veteran. He said they need to listen to small business owners about how to help them. He said reducing the income tax gradually and then ultimately eliminating it will make businesses want to locate in Connecticut and will also help residents. OBrien said the income tax is the only progressive tax in the state and opposed reducing it. He suggested instead not taxing senior citizens pensions or Social Security if their income was below a certain threshold. He said Connecticut relies too much on property taxes. He also opposed tax incentives for large corporations and instead said it was better to help small business. He said there are many pieces of economic development, but his niche piece is connecting the trails in western Connecticut to make an attractive recreation option, as well as offer another form of transportation. He said these opportunities improve the quality of life which is attractive for businesses. He said they also will draw tourists to the area and expand that industry. OBrien has worked on bringing trails to the state since 2007. Hes collaborated with other trail organizations, secured funding and helped create the Western New England Greenway plan. I look forward to the opportunity to make a lot of noise on behalf of this part of the state, he said. Buckbee also recognized the need for trails and walkability in New Milford and said he would work to get money for it. TUNIS - The Sousse Convention Centre will host the 3rd edition of the Mediterranean Building Fair (Baltimed) from October 4-7, with over 100 companies in the building and construction sector participating from Tunisia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Turkey. The goal of the event, which since 2009 has been one of the biggest events of its kind in the Mediterranean, is to show the potential for growth in the construction sector in Tunisia. DNA Script, the global leader in the development of enzymatic DNA synthesis, today announced that it has successfully synthesized the world's first 150-nucleotide (nt) strand of DNA by de novo enzymatic synthesis. DNA Script's enzymatic approach reaches up to 99.5 percent efficacy for each nucleotide added, achieving parity with traditional chemical synthesis.. DNA Script shared these results during a presentation at SynBioBeta 2018 the premier conference for synthetic biology, held in San Francisco. "The technology developed by DNA Script is now on par with the performance of current commercial solutions done with the aid of phosphoramidite reagents. DNA Script is the first organization commercial or academic to demonstrate the feasibility of enzymatic DNA synthesis, proving the incredible potential of this nascent technology. In May, we announced a world-first with the enzymatic synthesis of a 50 nt strand of DNA, and we have been able to triple our performance in just four months. By 2019, we expect to be able to synthesize DNA strands several hundred nucleotides in length. The speed at which our enzymatic synthesis technique has progressed from a single incorporation to 150 nt in just four years significantly outperforms the historical trend for phosphoramidite chemistry." said Thomas Ybert, PhD, CEO and cofounder of DNA Script. In the experiments routinely run by the R&D team at DNA Script, sequences of the four natural nucleotides are randomly generated in silico and then automatically synthesized in vitro on the hardware platform developed by the company, without any physical template. Ybert added: "This is only the beginning. Our goal is now to go way beyond chemistry. In the long term, DNA Script plans to print DNA strands up to 1,000 nt in about a day. In the last 12 months, the company increased its secured financing up to $27m, was granted 2 patents, filed 5 new patent applications and grew its team to 35. We intend to release the first commercial products to early adopters within 12 months. Our priority is now on building the organization to deliver on that ambitious plan." As the field of genomics accelerates, innovative genome editing technologies are driving advancements in life science research. DNA is the driving force behind life science experiments in fields as divergent as synthetic biology, sequencing, clinical diagnostics, CRISPR editing, cancer therapeutics, epigenetics, protein discovery and engineering as well as data storage. However, the demand for DNA is not always met in these fields. Synthetic DNA manufacturing often creates a workflow bottleneck consequently slowing down innovation in life science. For the past 50 years, synthetic DNA has indeed been manufactured through a complex chemical process with limitations in terms of quality, turn-around time and manufacturing flexibility. In contrast, DNA Script has developed a novel biochemical process for nucleic acid synthesis based on the use of highly efficient enzymes. This technology mimics the way nature produces genetic code. DNA Script's technology enables enhanced performance and simplified process while minimizing the use of harsh chemicals and is therefore ideally positioned to unleash the development of innovative solutions in life sciences. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in American men. But black men bear a disproportionate burden of its effects. It's more common - and more than twice as deadly - among black men compared to their white counterparts. Yet the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations for prostate cancer screening do not differentiate for race, leaving it to physicians and patients, ages 55 to 69, to reach an individual decision on whether and when to screen. In a new study published in European Urology, Moffitt Cancer Center researchers, along with colleagues at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, demonstrated that a baseline prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level obtained from black men between ages 40 and 60 can strongly predict future development of prostate cancer and its most aggressive forms for years after testing. The study builds on earlier work in the U.S. and Sweden which demonstrated a strong link between elevated midlife PSA levels and later development of prostate cancer among primarily white men. Given the pronounced racial disparities in prostate cancer, research on screening in African-American men has become a USPSTF priority. The investigators for this study utilized data and blood samples from participants in the Southern Community Cohort Study (SCCS), a prospective cohort of 86,000 men and women recruited through community health centers in 12 southern states. Established by the National Cancer Institute in 2001 to address health disparities, the SCCS has the highest representation of African Americans among existing cohorts, as well as a large biorepository. Researchers selected black men within the SCCS cohort who were aged 40 to 64 at time of enrollment during 2002-2009. At entry into the SCCS, they were free of cancer diagnosis. Linkage with state cancer registries allowed the researchers to identify 197 within this group who had developed prostate cancer by 2015, 91 of whom had aggressive disease (advanced stage, high grade or death attributed to prostate cancer). For each of these cases, the researchers identified up to three controls from the SCCS who matched in terms of age, study site and date of blood draw and who survived without prostate cancer at the time of the matched case's diagnosis. PSA levels in blood samples from the SCCS biorepository for the total of 766 cases and controls were analyzed in blinded case-control sets. The results showed that the risk of prostate cancer rose along with rising PSA levels, regardless of age. Compared to men with PSAs at or below their age-specific median, an elevated PSA baseline increased prostate cancer risks 25 percent for men aged 40 to 54, and 17.5 percent for men aged 55 to 64. Importantly, the results showed that, for men aged 40 to 54, PSA levels within the "normal" range that would not trigger a follow-up in usual clinical practice (1.1 - 1.7 ng/ml) still saw an increased risk for prostate cancer. The link between aggressive prostate cancer and elevated baseline PSA was especially strong. All 36 cases of aggressive prostate cancer in the 40 to 54 years age group occurred among those with baseline PSA above their age-specific median. For those ages 55 to 64, 95 percent (52 of 55) of aggressive prostate cancer cases were in men with elevated PSA baselines. "Midlife PSA predicts subsequent development of aggressive prostate cancer better than either family history or race," said co-first author and Moffitt epidemiologist Travis Gerke, Sc.D. "While these findings do not imply that these younger men should immediately undergo prostate biopsy or definitive treatment, they suggest that this group would benefit from more intensive PSA screening for earlier identification of cancer while it is potentially curable," said Gerke. "This 'smarter screening' approach may allow us to identify and follow men at higher risk while reducing the population-wide harms of screening low-risk men." Source: https://moffitt.org/newsroom/press-release-archive/2018/early-psa-testing-could-help-predict-prostate-cancer-among-black-men/ A research team at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Gillings School of Global Public Health found that a well-known gene variant linked to Type 2 diabetes, called transcription Factor-7 like 2 gene, may also predispose someone to being leaner, or having a lower body weight. These findings are striking because many individuals with Type 2 diabetes are obese. But individuals with this gene variant may be at risk for Type 2 diabetes even while maintaining a low body weight. As researchers uncover genes, they are finding distinct pathways through which individuals develop Type 2 diabetes. This information may be used in the future to tailor treatments to populations and individuals to help prevent diabetes or better control blood glucose levels once they develop diabetes. Kari North, senior author of the study, is a professor of epidemiology in the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health. This study is one of the first studies of the TCF7L2 gene in a very large, representative sample of diverse Hispanic Latinos and was published today in the journal BMC Obesity. "The counterintuitive discovery that some people are predisposed to both being thin and developing Type 2 diabetes refocuses our attention on the need to collect data in diverse populations and across time," said North. "Hispanic Latinos are a diverse and understudied population, so this study is an important step forward for understanding their health risks." The team used population-based study data from more than 9,000 Hispanic Latino adults, ages 21 to 76 years old, with complete weight history and genetic data from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos. Using complex modeling, researchers looked at the impact of a specific complex gene variant on changes in body mass index and then estimated the odds of Type 2 diabetes across time. In the United States, Hispanic Latinos face a striking disparity in Type 2 diabetes, with "The other important takeaway from this study, which is especially timely now during National Hispanic Heritage Month, is that diverse populations, like Hispanics, who have ancestry from the Americas, Europe and Africa, are heterogeneous with distinct genetics," says North. "As we continue to develop initiatives around personalized medicine, we need to make sure that we are addressing the needs of all populations." The research paper notes that the transcription Factor-7 like 2 gene is not routinely screened for in clinical practice. In the future, this research will help scientists use genetic information to understand the causes of diabetes and obesity and understand their relationship to each other. This can lead to personalization in medication and help clinicians offer better treatment and advice on adopting healthy lifestyles. The study used cohort data with detailed medical histories, allowing the research team to demonstrate that leanness and Type 2 diabetes co-occur at a high rate in this diverse Hispanic Latino population. If you're looking for a needle in a haystack, it's best to know what hay looks like. An international team of researchers has applied this idea to the search for new pharmaceuticals, developing a technique that reduces the chances of simply rediscovering known compounds. In an article published today in the journal Nature Communications, researchers from Carnegie Mellon University; the University of California, San Diego; and St. Petersburg State University in Russia describe a new means of searching vast repositories of compounds produced by microbes. By analyzing the mass spectra of the compounds, they were able to identify known compounds within the repository and eliminate them from further analysis, focusing instead on the unknown variants -- the needles within the haystack -- that might potentially be better or more efficient antibiotics, anticancer drugs or other pharmaceuticals. In just a week, running on 100 computers, the algorithm, called Dereplicator+, sorted through a billion mass spectra in the Global Natural Products Social molecular network at UC San Diego and identified more than 5,000 promising, unknown compounds that merit further investigation, said Hosein Mohimani, assistant professor in CMU's Computational Biology Department and first author on the article. The algorithm that powers this molecular search engine is now available for use by any investigator to study additional repositories. In the past, mass spectrometry data repositories have been underused because it was difficult to search through them and because those efforts to date have been plagued by high rates of rediscovery of known compounds. "It's unbelievable how many times people have rediscovered penicillin," Mohimani said. Analyzing the compounds' mass spectra -- essentially, a measurement of the masses within a sample that has been ionized -- is a relatively inexpensive way of identifying possible new pharmaceuticals. But existing techniques were largely limited to peptides, which have simple structures such as chains and loops. "We were only looking at the tip of the iceberg," Mohimani said. To analyze the larger number of complex compounds that have entangled structures and numerous loops and branches, the researchers developed a method for predicting how a mass spectrometer would break apart the molecules. Beginning with the weakest rings, the method simulated what would happen as the molecules came apart. Using 5,000 known compounds and their mass spectra, they trained a computer model that could then be used to predict how other compounds would break down. Mohimani said Dereplicator+ not only can identify known compounds that don't need to be investigated further, but it can also find less common variants of the known compounds that likely would go undetected within a sample. In an innovative study that promises to reduce production costs for the most potent form of vitamin K -- Menaquinone-7, Penn State researchers have developed a novel method to enhance the fermentation process that creates the supplement by agitated liquid fermentation in a biofilm reactor. The new process, assuming it can be scaled up to industrial production, is important because recent studies conducted by universities in the Netherlands and UCLA School of Medicine, among others, show essential health benefits associated with large doses of vitamin K -- especially the Menaquinone-7 form, known as MK-7. These benefits include reducing risks of cardiovascular disease and strokes, osteoporosis, and even battling cancer. Foods that are rich in vitamin K -- such as kale, red meat and egg yolk -- do not provide enough of the vitamin to achieve high-dose therapies, which will require supplements. However, MK-7 production on an industrial level is expensive and limited because the bacterial fermentation needed to create the vitamin so far has relied on "static" fermentation strategies that are inadequate to ramp up output of the vitamin. The present production system -- incorporating shallow trays of solid, soy-based medium growing microorganisms only on the surface -- will not support the expected increased demand for vitamin K, explained researcher Ehsan Mahdinia, a postdoctoral scholar in food science at Penn State. "Using biofilm reactors, however, appears to be a practical alternative," said Mahdinia. "Biofilm reactors provide a controlled environment for the microorganisms to form mature and robust biofilms that enable them to produce value-added products such as vitamin K with increased efficiency." Integral to the ability of biofilm reactors to produce vitamin K are specially designed internal plastic composite supports that microorganisms adhere to and on which they build intertwined colonies -- called biofilms -- that can withstand aeration and agitation needed to spur the microorganisms to secrete more vitamin K. "The supports are comprised of half plastic and half soybean hulls, with other nutrients mixed in, that are extruded together at high temperatures," said Mahdinia. "The composite material is porous enough to allow microbes to colonize and hold onto it. At the same time, it is hard enough that the supports do not fall apart when they are in the liquid." The study looked at producing MK-7 with an improved fermentation process, comparing the performance of strains of the microorganisms that create vitamin K. Researchers evaluated Bacillus species such as Bacillus subtilis natto, Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus amyloliquifaciens. Bacillus subtilis natto was determined to be the most efficient microorganism to be used in future Penn State studies in biofilm reactors, according to Mahdinia. It is a type of bacteria that produces fermented soy food such as Japanese traditional sticky natto, he pointed out. "Natto is a goo resulting from the microbes partially digesting soybeans, and like all fermented foods, it is very nutritious," he said. "It's basically rotten soybeans. I have been told it doesn't taste good, but I must admit that I have never had the courage to taste it." Finally, researchers experimented with the liquid medium, suspending and feeding the microorganisms in 12-day fermentation runs. The medium started as a soy broth supplemented with 0.8 percent yeast extract. In the study, they tested the addition of glucose and glycerol to the base media in the biofilm reactors. The carbon source addition seemed crucial in batch fermentations, Mahdinia noted. "Our results indicated that 'fed-batch' strategies can be significantly effective in glucose-based medium, rendering the biofilm reactors a promising replacement for static fermentation strategies. Under the same operational and medium conditions, suspended-cell bioreactors (with no biofilm present) could not reach MK-7 concentrations higher than 8.7 milligrams per liter, while in biofilm reactors concentrations were higher than 28.7 milligrams per liter -- a 2.3-fold enhancement." Ali Demirci, Penn State professor of agricultural and biological engineering, whose research group in the College of Agricultural Sciences conducted the study, has high hopes for this new technology. He is planning to scale up the 2-liter laboratory biofilm reactors and introduce pilot scale fermenters of perhaps 200 liters. "We believe those pilot scale biofilm reactors can produce a significant amount of vitamin K to compete with what is done in industry right now," he said. "Then we hope we can turn this into a patent and go to the industry and say, 'you can easily scale up these liquid fermenters to thousands of liters, similar to what is in use now for bioethanol production.' Each fermenter can reach up to 850,000 gallons of volume and produce much larger amounts of vitamin K." IONTAS Limited (IONTAS), a leader in the discovery and optimisation of fully human antibodies, today announced a collaborative paper published in Nature Communications with the Technical University of Denmark, and the Instituto Clodomiro Picado of the University of Costa Rica describing the development of a panel of human antibodies that neutralise elements of black mamba snake toxin in an in vivo model. Each year, around two million people fall victim to snakebite envenoming, which leads to more than 100,000 deaths and approximately 400,000 cases of severe sequalae, such as amputation. Particularly, impoverished victims living in snake-infested areas of the tropics are at risk, and many bites are left untreated due to the unavailability of safe and effective antivenoms. Snakebite envenoming has recently been introduced on the World Health Organization's list of neglected tropical diseases due to its high disease burden. The "proof of concept" research described in Nature Communications identified key components, including dendrotoxins, in the black mamba's venom which contribute to venom toxicity. Human antibodies were generated to these dendrotoxins using IONTAS Phage Display Technology and cocktails of IgG-formatted human antibodies were then shown to protect mice from dendrotoxin-mediated neurotoxicity in vivo. Associate Professor Andreas Hougaard Laustsen, Technical University of Denmark, commented: "Current antivenoms are based on plasma-derived animal antibodies, which are effective in neutralising venom toxicity, but are also associated with serious adverse reactions, such as serum sickness, due to their non-human origin. With our work we have laid the first stone on the technological path towards the manufacture of a next-generation fully human antivenom, devoid of such drawbacks." Professor Jose Maria Gutierrez, Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Universidad de Costa Rica, said: "It is rewarding to see that classic techniques in toxinology and state-of-the-art methodologies of recombinant DNA could be successfully combined to demonstrate clear therapeutic potential. This recombinant antibody approach opens the door to the development of novel tools in the treatment of snakebites." Dr John McCafferty, Founder and CEO, IONTAS said: "Snake envenomation is a particular burden among the world's poorest people and the approach to treatment, based on poorly defined animal serum has not changed in decades. IONTAS were motivated to contribute our resources and experience in recombinant antibody technology towards this initial proof-of-concept study. We hope that this report will help encourage funders to support the scientific community and advance the treatment of snakebites using modern antibody engineering methods. Although many challenges remain in the development of safe, efficacious and cost-effective drug cocktails, it is an achievable goal with the ultimate reward of seeing science help improve human lives." A new National Institutes of Health (NIH) High-Risk, High-Reward grant will allow Penn State's Steven Schiff and team to explore a radically changed approach to predicting, preventing and treating infectious disease at the individual level at point-of-care. This venture provides the researchers an opportunity to explore a new way of addressing critical unmet needs, especially in the developing world. As a pediatric neurosurgeon, Schiff has dedicated a significant portion of his career to the study and treatment of brain diseases in children. Brain infection in infants often results in hydrocephalus, fluid build-up in the brain that can lead to brain damage and death. "Infant hydrocephalus is the most common reason for neurosurgery in young children worldwide," said Schiff, Harvey F. Brush Chair in the College of Engineering in the departments of Neurosurgery, Engineering Science and Mechanics and Physics. "If we are to best treat infectious disease, for example in these infants, we need to start focusing on preventing their infections, instead of training surgeons and building advanced surgical facilities to repair the effects after these infections occur." Schiff turned to explore critical areas of scientific discovery that have the potential to create or overturn fundamental paradigms. A National Institutes of Health Director's Pioneer grant in 2015 allowed Schiff to shift his professional focus from neuroscience to study the causes of childhood infectious diseases in the developing world, where neonatal sepsis claims 1 million lives each year. Today, he wasnamed recipient of an $8.1 million NIH Director's Transformative Research Award for a project that aims to radically change the approach to treatment of these diseases, emphasizing prediction and prevention. Schiff will now be able to assemble a 'dream team' to develop innovative models that incorporate the ability to predict outbreaks of epidemic disease with predictions of pathogen type and host resistance, allowing real-time preventive treatment at the point of care, instead of relying on standard diagnostic approaches. "We have demonstrated that it is feasible to predict epidemic disease outbreaks from retrospective seasonal and geographical case data and have shown that we can take climate factors into account in our predictive models," said Schiff, who is also the director of the Penn State Center for Neural Engineering. "But predictive strategies have never been used in treatment of individual patients. We believe our approach to predictive personalized public health has the potential to substantially improve patient outcomes." Today, patients suffering from symptoms of infectious disease such as sepsis, flu-like illness, fever with rash, or meningitis, are typically all treated alike: by drawing samples for laboratory analysis, starting antibiotic therapy with the physician's best guess as to the likely causes, and then hoping to learn the causative reason for the infection over a period of days from laboratory analysis. Schiff's vision is to move from reactive, delayed diagnoses to real-time treatment usingpredictive models that incorporate historical microbiological surveillance data, geographic location of the patient, and environmental and climatic factors to determine the likely pathogens and narrow down the best treatment choices at the point of care. Over the next few years, Schiff and his team will build on both his own previous work and years of existing research on infant infections. Theywill take a multi-pronged approach involving disciplines as disparate as epidemiology, meteorology and genomics, and using a variety of tools including machine learning, statistics and engineering control theory. The Ugandan National Planning Authority, Meteorological Authority, and Ministry of Health, are among the critical departments that have offered their support, and Schiff noted that the work of these agencies within Uganda will be key to successful implementation trials. "This is work that no one could ever do on their own. It is the outgrowth of 12 years at Penn State and the opportunity to collaborate through transdisciplinary research with colleagues and personnel in Uganda -- blending medicine, engineering and science," Schiff said. "One of our unique strengths at Penn State is the ability to integrate across traditional disciplines with the teamwork required to work toward important goals. Faculty at Penn State are very open to such collaborations, and across our medical, engineering and science campuses, we have the breadth of expertise required to tackle critical problems of this magnitude." The Transformative Research Award, established in 2009, promotes cross-cutting, transdisciplinary approaches and is part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research Programbestowed on exceptionally creative scientists proposing paradigm-shifting research. The awards were created to support unconventional approaches to major challenges in biomedical and behavioral research. Schiff's award is one of the 10 Transformative Research awards among 89 total awards granted for a total of approximately $282 million over five years. With today's announcement, Penn State joins the ranks of the few institutions in the U.S. with faculty who have received both the Pioneer and the Transformative Research Awards. "Steve Schiff has devoted his career to improving the lives of children coping with serious, sometimes fatal brain disorders, and he's especially passionate about the acute needs of children living in under-developed countries," said Dr. A. Craig Hillemeier, dean of Penn State College of Medicine, CEO of Penn State Health and senior vice president for health affairs at Penn State. "I am elated that his many years of innovative and collaborative research to improve health outcomes for children are being recognized and rewarded with this NIH Director's Award." In addition to a close collaboration with Penn State's Institute for Personalized Medicine, and partnering with colleagues from many disciplines at Penn State and Penn State Health, Schiff's team will include the CURE Children's Hospital of Uganda, leading experts from Harvard and George Mason University, and from companies such as Genentech. "This work promises to make a profound impact on the entire medical field and may have long-term implications for healthcare on a global scale," said Neil Sharkey, vice president for research, Penn State. "Dr. Schiff's vision exemplifies the type of collaboration unique to Penn State that harnesses the broad talent needed to effectively address critical, universal problems," said Justin Schwartz, Harold and Inge Marcus Dean, College of Engineering. "The College of Engineering is focused on translational research and his approach personifies this vision by bridging the gap between the fields of medicine and engineering." LAMPEDUSA (AGRIGENTO) - Lampedusa Mayor Toto Martello was at the head of a march on Wednesday in the centre of Lampedusa to honour the 368 victims of a migrant shipwreck that occurred off the island's shores on October 3, 2013. "We are here, just like every year, but this time the government isn't," Martello said. No government representatives were present on the island for Italy's annual National Day of Remembrance and Reception in memory of the Lampedusa victims, which was instituted by a law passed in 2016. Tareke Brhane, of the non-profit 3 October Committee, also remarked about the absence of government representatives on the island and said he was aware of a ceremony to take place in the Lower House in Rome. "The important thing is that there are lots of young people and students to remember all the victims of the Mediterranean," Brhane said. Mayor Martello, accompanied by fishermen and some migrants who survived the shipwreck, traveled by boat to the location where the shipwreck took place and threw a flower wreath into the water. They were trailed by several other fishing boats full of people. "Lampedusa is inconvenient to the political powers," Martello said. "We're here to remember many tragic events, and the response from Italy and Europe is silence, an attempt to erase even recent history," he said. "You can't say that arrivals are finished, and repatriations are finished, that no one dies anymore at sea - that is false," Martello said. "In Lampedusa the port is open. The boats with migrants dock directly. When they tell me that there wasn't time to plan for European schools to arrive, it's a blatant attempt to prevent the circulation of ideas, history, memory, truth. They don't want schools to come, youth, young people who can move around more easily, who can work together, who speak," Martello said. Researchers at Michigan State University conducted the largest experimentally controlled study on sleep deprivation to date, revealing just how detrimental operating without sleep can be in everything from bakers adding too much salt to cookies to surgeons botching surgeries. While sleep deprivation research isn't new, the level at which distractions hinder sleep-deprived persons' memories and challenge them from successfully completing tasks was not clear until MSU's team quantified the impact. "If you look at mistakes and accidents in surgery, public transportation and even operating nuclear power plants, lack of sleep is one of the primary reasons for human error," said Kimberly Fenn, associate professor of psychology and director of the MSU Sleep and Learning Lab. "There are many people in critical professions who are sleep-deprived. Research has found that nearly one-quarter of the people with procedure-heavy jobs have fallen asleep on the job." Published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, Fenn's research is unlike previous studies because of its focus on sleep deprivation's impact on completing tasks. These tasks, Fenn explained, involve following directions and include multiple steps. Some basic errors, such as adding salt twice to a recipe, might not be so serious. However, some of the world's greatest human-caused catastrophes - like Chernobyl, the Exxon Valdez oil spill and the Challenger explosion - along with daily train and car accidents have sleep deprivation at least partially to blame, she said. Fenn hopes that her lab's findings will shed light on how critical sleep is to completing any task, be it large or small. "Every day, approximately 11 sponges are left inside of patients who have undergone surgery. That's 4,000 potentially dire missteps each year and an example of a procedural task gone terribly wrong that can result from sleep deprivation," Fenn said. "Our research suggests that sleep-deprived people shouldn't perform tasks in which they are interrupted - or, only perform them for short periods." To test sleep deprivation's impact on how people follow steps in a task, Fenn's team brought 234 people into the sleep lab at 10 p.m. That night, all of the participants worked on a sequence-based procedure that involved following a series of tasks in order. Periodically, they were interrupted and had to remember where they were in the procedure before picking up again. At midnight, half of the participants went home to sleep while the other half stayed awake all night at the lab. The next morning, everyone completed the procedure once again. What Fenn's team found was a stark jump in errors for those who were sleep-deprived. "All participants met performance criteria in the evening, but roughly 15 percent of participants in the sleep-deprived group failed in the morning, compared to 1 percent of those who slept," Fenn said. "Furthermore, sleep-deprived participants not only showed more errors than those who slept but also showed a progressive increase in errors associated with memory as they performed the task - an effect not observed in those who slept. This shows that the sleep-deprived group experienced a great deal of difficulty remembering where they were in the sequence during interruptions." Memory maintenance, the research found, was the real culprit keeping the sleep-deprived from completing tasks successfully. With hindered memory maintenance, it's much more difficult to pick up a task where you left off without missteps, Fenn explained. Fenn also explained that distractions we face every day - whether receiving a text message or simply answering a question - are unavoidable but especially harmful to sleep-deprived people. "Operating with reduced cognitive capacity has wide-ranging effects," Fenn said. "Students may pull all-nighters and not retain information for their exams. More worrisome, individuals working critical jobs may put themselves and other members of society at risk because of sleep deprivation. It simply cannot be overlooked." Fenn's research, conducted alongside MSU colleagues Erik Altmann and Michelle Stepan, was funded by the United States Office of Naval Research. Next, Fenn's research lab will examine the potential of caffeine and nap interventions for helping to offset the negative effects of sleep deprivation. Researchers used continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to assess the effects of adding dapagliflozin to a regimen of either metformin or insulin in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and found significant reductions in mean glucose and other glycemic factors, with greater improvements seen in patients taking metformin compared to insulin. The design and results of this trial are published in Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics (DTT), a peer-reviewed journal from Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers. CGM was used to determine daily variations in glucose during the week before patients received dapagliflozin and during the last week of treatment. Dapagliflozin is a U.S. FDA-approved inhibitor of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) and by blocking SGLT2 it increases urinary glucose excretion and improves glucose control. CGM was able to show the effects of adding dapagliflozin to either metformin or insulin in terms of overall mean glucose concentration, fasting plasma glucose, postprandial glucose, time spent in the target glucose range, and glucose variability. The article entitled "Effects of Dapagliflozin on 24-Hour Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial" was coauthored by Robert Henry, MD, University of California San Diego School of Medicine and colleagues from UC San Diego School of Medicine, Integrated Medical Development (Princeton Junction, NJ), Medpace (Cincinnati, OH), and AstraZeneca (Fort Washington, PA). "["As we move beyond A1c to measure glucose control, the use of CGM is becoming more important especially in insulin-requiring patients with diabetes. Time in range (TIR) and other metrics to measure glucose variability may closely relate with a patient's overall glucose control," says DTT Editor-in-Chief Satish Garg, MD, Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of Colorado Denver (Aurora). "Henry and colleagues emphasize the importance of adding an SGLT2 inhibitor on different metrics of glucose control as measured by CGM." Preterm birth remains a global epidemic linked to a lifetime of potential health complications. It also is difficult to study in living creatures--especially the uniquely precise biology of preterm birth in humans. Researchers report in PLoS Biology successfully inserting just enough human DNA into transgenic laboratory mice that it allowed the team to study a unique part of human pregnancy compared to other animals. As a result, the scientists at the Cincinnati Children's Perinatal Institute and Department of Pediatrics at the University Of Cincinnati College Of Medicine discovered what controls expression of a stress hormone called corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) in the placenta. The placenta supports the fetus and provides communication with the mother. CRH expression levels are linked to birth timing in humans and indicate whether a pregnancy will be preterm, post-term, or the normal term of 37-42 weeks. Unfortunately, pregnant mice and other non-primate species don't naturally express CRH in the placenta. The scientists had to figure out how to get the animals to incorporate the genetic machinery needed to express the hormone. This is important because researchers still don't know what CRH does in the placenta during pregnancy. Having transgenic mice with the necessary human DNA to express CRH in the placenta should help them find out, according to Louis Muglia, MD, senior investigator on the study, Co-Director of the Perinatal Institute and Director of Human Genetics at Cincinnati Children's. "The challenge with studying human pregnancy is the typical biomedical approach requires a relevant animal for research," Muglia said. "It's been done for cancer and many other diseases. The problem is pregnancy in humans is different enough that it's not been possible to effectively translate the findings from the animal studies to humans." Transgenic mouse models that mimic key aspects of human pregnancy also should help researchers uncover more information about how epigenetics affect birth timing. This could help answer long-standing questions about whether environmental exposures, like social stress or poor nutrition, influence the expression of genes important to birthing healthy, full-term babies. Nature Finds a Way To get pregnant laboratory mice to express CRH, Muglia's team decided to test evolutionary genetics and biology. They experimented with something called a retroviral long terminal repeat (LTR) known as THE1B. Retroviral LTRs are identical sequences of DNA that continually repeat themselves and allow viruses to insert their genetic material into the genome of a host species. In the case of THE1B, it jumped into the genome of anthropoid primates (humankind's closest evolutionary relatives) 50 million years ago. The research team developed a hypothesis that THE1B's invasion of the anthropoid primate genome may have initiated CRH expression in the placenta during pregnancy. They tested this by microinjecting into transgenic mice 180 kilobytes of human DNA containing the THE1B LTR and CRH. Muglia said researchers didn't know if it would work, but in a vivid display of genetic adaptability the mice integrated and activated the DNA in the placenta. "We were fortunate that the mice already had the machinery waiting and ready to activate and incorporate the human DNA and CRH in their placenta during pregnancy," he said. Glimpse of Pregnancy Control After the human DNA was up and running in the mouse placentas, the researchers selectively edited DNA regions of THE1B with a precise gene-editing technique called CRISPR/Cas9. They found that the restricted deletion of THE1B silenced CRH expression and normalized birth timing in the transgenic mice. Their data also uncovered an interaction between THE1B and a transcription factor called DLX3, which is expressed in the placenta. Transcription factors in essence are genes that tell other genes what to do. During pregnancy, DLX3 is critical to normal development of the placenta. Collectively the study's findings suggest that retroviral insertion of THE1B into the anthropoid genome initiated CRH expression in the placenta by working with DLX3. The data also suggest that intentionally manipulating placental CRH levels can alter the timing of birth. The authors stress the current study is still early and its findings are a small part of a large and complex puzzle that requires more research. In their ongoing studies of CRH, THE1B and DLX3, the scientists will use this new information to explore how these biological pieces fit into the complex puzzle of what controls the timing of human pregnancies. Some people can adjust to environmental stressors to avoid depression. Women need to do this more than men to avoid getting depressed. The researchers used 'winter blues' (SAD) as a model for depression, and were able to show that some people - in spite of being genetically predisposed to depression - are more resilient in resisting it. This will help us understand which factors might prevent depression. Depression is notoriously hard to study, but what if you could switch depression on and off and look at the biological differences between when people are depressed and when they are not? Now a study of seasonal depression, SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), suggests that some people, and especially women, can avoid depression by maintaining or even increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin throughout the year, even though they carry a gene which would normally cause winter blues. This work is published in the October issue of the peer-reviewed journal European Neuropsychopharmacology. SAD is a condition caused by lack of daylight, leading to an increase in clinical depression in the winter, especially in areas further from the equator. Studies have shown that around 90% of people living in Copenhagen are affected in some way, such as sleeping or eating disturbance, with around 5% showing clinical depression in the winter. Copenhagen is at roughly the same latitude as major population centres such as Glasgow and Edinburgh, Moscow, Novosibirsk, and Sitka, Alaska. With the coming of spring, these clinical symptoms generally disappear. As lead researcher, Dr Brenda McMahon (Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen) said "Daylight is effectively a natural antidepressant. Like many drugs currently used against depression, more daylight prevents serotonin being removed from the brain". Scientists had previously found that SAD is more common in women, and in people carrying the 5-HTTLPR gene. This genetic variation determines the efficacy of the serotonin transporter which regulates how the neurotransmitter serotonin is removed from the brain: most anti-depressive medicines (such as Prozac) work by slowing the clearance of serotonin between the brain cells. The team of scientists from Copenhagen studied 23 young volunteers who had the HTTLPR genetic predisposition to depression, but who were amongst the 10% of Danes who are unaffected by the change of season. The volunteers were given two brain scans (PET scans, Positron Emission Tomography) in summer, with two follow-up scan in winter, with the aim of measuring both the serotonin transporter and serotonin levels in the brain. According to Brenda McMahon "Daylight deprivation is a potent trigger of depressive symptoms. This is the first time anyone has used PET scans to look at resistance to winter depression. We found that the level of serotonin transporter protein dropped by an average of around 10% from summer to winter, with the drop being noticeably greater in women. We found that some people who you would expect to have SAD because of their genetic disposition were nevertheless able to control how much serotonin transporter was produced, which means that they were able to regulate how much serotonin was removed from their brain: in this way they become more resilient to depression. SAD resilient women down-regulate their brain serotonin transporter more in the winter than men do, meaning that the levels of serotonin did remained unaltered between seasons. In general SAD resilient people maintained the same level of serotonin across seasons. Senior author, Professor Gitte Knudsen (Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen) said: "We need to note that this is a small study, and we measured serotonin levels indirectly. Nevertheless, our findings offer good grounds for treatment of SAD with SSRIs". Commenting, Professor Eduard Vieta (Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona) said: "Psychiatry has traditionally focused on risk factors and illness outcomes. This is one of those rare studies that focuses on protective factors, something called "positive psychiatry". By selecting and studying people who did not develop seasonal depression, the authors provide further knowledge on the neurobiology of resilience, which may translate, in the future, on better ways to prevent depression." Professor Vieta was not involved in this work, this is an independent comment. European Neuropsychopharmacology Editor, Professor Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg (Mannheim), added: "This study illustrates the power of combining neuroimaging with genetic analysis to understand what brain processes increase resilience against mental disorders". Drug safety and effectiveness vary greatly among populations worldwide. Genetics is one of the factors that contribute to variability in drug response. The science of pharmacogenetics, a key driver of precision medicine, studies person-to-person differences in genetic make-up in relation to drug metabolism, transport and molecular targets. A new pharmacogenetic study of 6060 adults in 12 countries from Europe (Spain and Portugal), North America (Mexico), Central America (Costa Rica, Nicaragua), the Caribbean (Cuba), South America (Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Uruguay) reported the individual and population variations in key drug metabolizing enzyme genes CYP2D6, CYP2C9 and CYP2C19, and their predicted metabolic phenotypes. The report titled "Interethnic Variability in CYP2D6, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 Genes and Predicted Drug Metabolism Phenotypes Among 6060 Ibero- and Native Americans: RIBEF-CEIBA Consortium Report on Population Pharmacogenomics" is published in OMICS: A Journal of Integrative Biology, a peer-reviewed publication from Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers. Authored by the CEIBA-Consortium of the Ibero-American Network of Pharmacogenetics and Pharmacogenomics RIBEF, the study is the largest carried out in Ibero-American populations and Native Americans, analyzing human genetic variation in salient drug metabolism pathways, with a view to functional impacts on drug pharmacokinetics and response. The senior authors of the publication, Adrian LLerena, MD, PhD and Eva M. Penas-Lledo, PhD (Extremadura University, Badajoz, Spain), explained that "population pharmacogenomics is a nascent field of global health and warrants further research and education." They added that "analyses according to self-reported ancestry in 1395 Native Americans and other Ibero-Americans showed marked population differences in variants of CYP2D6, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 genes and their predicted phenotypes. Moreover, differences were observed within the Native American sample as well." "The RIBEF-CEIBA Consortium report is timely as precision medicine diagnostics and therapeutics continue to be deployed worldwide. In essence, the study highlights the need for population-specific precision medicine programs in Latin America," says Vural ozdemir, MD, PhD, DABCP, Editor-in-Chief of OMICS, also noting that "biomarker translation to clinical practice requires contextual information and triangulation of evidence across multi-omics technology platforms as exemplified in the following three key articles published in OMICS": The natural world often provides the answer to unsolved medical problems. On this occasion, the solution to a challenge posed by cancer has come about from the immune system of camelids. A study headed by the Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), in Belgium, describes a number of therapeutic tools that have the capacity to block the activity of EGF, a growth factor that is dysregulated in cancer cells. EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor) is a therapeutic target in cancer; however, no inhibitors have been found for it to date. The team of researchers is the first to identify a family of nanobodies--antibodies that are exclusive to camelids--derived from alpacas that are effective against EGF. In this regard, they have described the molecular mechanisms underlying the affinity and selectivity of these nanobodies in an article published in the scientific journal Angewandte Chemie. "In spite of advances in treatments against the EGR receptor (EGFR) in patients, their efficacy decreases over time because patients develop resistance," explain Monica Varese and Salvador Guardiola, co-authors of the study and postdoctoral researchers at IRB Barcelona. "By taking advantage of an emerging biotech tool, nanobodies, we have been able to synthesize the first inhibitors with high affinity for EGF," they say. Immune response IRB Barcelona produced the EGF protein and their Belgian colleagues administered it to alpacas. The immune response of these animals to this strange antigen produced a series of nanobodies, and the researchers identified a family of these molecules as potential inhibitors of EGF. The IRB Barcelona team, which has extensive expertise in molecular recognition between proteins, observed that some of the ligands showed high affinity and selectivity towards EGF, and, using a range of biophysical techniques, they characterized the interactions in cells in vitro and in human cancer cells. "By injecting EGF into the alpaca we have challenged nature to find a molecule capable of binding tightly and with high selectivity to EGF, and it has come up with two very different but equally effective solutions for such a small and difficult antigen as EGF," says Ernest Giralt, head of the Peptide and Proteins Lab at IRB Barcelona and senior professor at the University of Barcelona, who has led the study. These drugs could be useful for patients who develop resistance to the EGFR inhibitors currently on the market. The first step is now to evaluate the pharmacological effect of these new nanobodies in cell and animal models of cancer. Source: https://www.irbbarcelona.org/en/news/the-immune-system-of-the-alpaca-reveals-a-potential-treatment-for-cancer Australian researchers have uncovered clues in the immune system that reveal how the balance of 'good' gut bacteria is maintained. This information could help in the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, showed that the increased presence of a protein responsible for sensing infection - called NLRP1 - meant there were fewer good bacteria and anti-inflammatory molecules in the gut, leading to higher levels of inflammation and an increased risk of IBD. The research was led by Associate Professor Seth Masters, Dr Alan Yu and Dr Tracy Putoczki from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, in collaboration with researchers at University of Melbourne's Bio21 Institute in Melbourne and a team led by Dr Graham Radford-Smith from QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute in Queensland. At a glance New research shows the immune system helps maintain 'good' bacteria in the gut in addition to defending against 'bad' bacteria. Good bacteria produce a molecule called butyrate which is important for keeping levels of inflammation down. The finding could help to inform preventions and treatments for inflammatory diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease. Getting to the bottom of IBD The cause of IBD, which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is not well understood. A better understanding could improve treatment options and the quality of life for patients, who often experience chronic and debilitating symptoms. Associate Professor Masters said while it was known that the immune system could defend the gut from bad bacteria, its role in maintaining 'good' bacteria wasn't appreciated until now. "We have uncovered the immune system's ability to regulate good gut bacteria through the immune sensor NLRP1. Good bacteria are important because they help to produce butyrate - a molecule that dampens inflammation in the body. So understanding how the balance of good bacteria is maintained could one day help to inform preventions and treatments for inflammatory diseases like IBD," he said. Clues to a cause Associate Professor Masters said the researchers had discovered the significance of NLRP1 by analysing donated bowel biopsies from patients with IBD, as well as in preclinical models in the laboratory. "We consistently observed that higher levels of NLRP1 in inflamed areas of the bowel correlated with lower levels of good bacteria and increased inflammation," he said. "And in cases where we genetically deleted NLRP1, levels of inflammation went down. "Too much NLRP1 leads to an overproduction of a signalling molecule called IL-18 that tells the body to mount a protective response against the threat of colonisation by bad bacteria - but as a consequence the good bacteria and their anti-inflammatory products are also lost. Inflammation occurs as part of this process so when too much IL-18 is produced, inflammation can continue unchecked and cause significant damage to the gastrointestinal tract," he said. Keeping a healthy balance The exact triggers for the increase in NLRP1 were unclear but Associate Professor Masters said the new findings enabled researchers to continue along a promising track towards resolving such questions. "While we don't know exactly what the genetic, microbial or environmental triggers for NLRP1 are, it is clear that faulty regulation of NLRP1 is an underlying cause of IBD. "Following on from the clues in our study, it may be possible to develop a drug that inhibits IL-18 or targets NLRP1 to block any unchecked inflammation. It's all about helping the immune system keep up the balancing act between all the factors that are constantly interacting to fight disease and promote wellbeing. "By stopping overproduction of NLRP1 or IL-18 in patients with IBD we may be able boost the number of good bacteria and anti-inflammatory properties in the gut and help to prevent or fight the damaging effects of too much inflammation," he said. Migrants: Sabir festival to promote integration Fourth edition's program presented, flash-mob for Tesfalidet (ANSAmed) - ROME, OCTOBER 3 - Nearly 60 initiatives including seminars, cultural events and round tables are scheduled for the fourth edition of Sabir, the Mediterranean culture festival presented today at Rome's Casa del Cinema (cinema house) to mark the National Day in Remembrance of the Victims of Immigration. The festival on October 11-14 vies to promote the integration and free circulation of migrants ''while the government is pointing its finger against immigrants'', organizers said. This year, after editions in Lampedusa, Pozzallo and Siracusa, the event will be hosted in Palermo, Italian culture capital. The presentation of the rich program of the event, organized by Arci together with Acli, Caritas and Cgil, was opened by a flash-mob on the words of two poems by Tasfalidet, an Eritrean migrant who died of hunger after landing in Pozzallo. Photos of the young man were on display while actor Giuseppe Cederna was reciting verses found in Tesfalidet's pockets. The leader of labor union Cgil, Susanna Camusso, said the agenda will include ''discussions on gang-masters, house helpers and caregivers and the exploitation of house workers that increasingly concerns migrants''. Organizers criticized government policies, in particular legislation on security promoted by Interior Minister Matteo Salvini. ''In four years, since we launched this initiative - explained Oliviero Forti, who is in charge of Italy's Catholic charity Caritas - we have seen a worrisome and embarrassing step backwards. Today we can call this festival an event that goes against the tide. We are running after someone who has made immigration their signature theme made of fear and viciousness''. (ANSAmed). ANSAmed - Today's events in the Mediterranean (ANSAmed) - ROME, OCTOBER 3 - These are the main events scheduled in the Euro-Mediterranean area for today: ROME - National Italian Press Federation headquarters, 11:00. Public meeting focusing on the topic of dialogue between cultures in the Middle East. STRASBOURG - European Parliament, plenary session (until 4/10). ROME - The exhibition 'The poetics between abstraction and figuration', contemporary art in Madrid in the post-war years, continues at the Cervantes Institute (until January 12). MADRID - The exhibition 'The Map and the Territory' begins at the Reina Sofia Museum, the first monographic exhibition in Spain dedicated to Luigi Ghirri's photographs (until January 7 2019). ABU DHABI - The exhibition 'Japanese Connections: the Birth of Modern Decor', continues at the Louvre in Abu Dhabi and includes a series of paintings and etchings from the XIX and XX centuries that highlight the dialogue between the East and the West (until November 24).(ANSAmed). Sorry! This content is not available in your region ANSAmed - Tomorrow's events in the Mediterranean (ANSAmed) - ROME, OCTOBER 3 - These are the main events scheduled in the Euro-Mediterranean area for tomorrow: MAZARA DEL VALLO - 7th edition of Blue Sea Land, the expo of agro-fishery clusters of the Mediterranean, Africa and the Middle East (until 7/10). TIRANA - EU, visit of European Commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality, Vera Jourova (also 5/10). BRUSSELS - NATO, Defence ministers meeting. STRASBOURG - European Parliament, plenary session. ROME - The exhibition 'The poetics between abstraction and figuration', contemporary art in Madrid in the post-war years, continues at the Cervantes Institute (until January 12). MADRID - The exhibition 'The Map and the Territory' begins at the Reina Sofia Museum, the first monographic exhibition in Spain dedicated to Luigi Ghirri's photographs (until January 7 2019). ABU DHABI - The exhibition 'Japanese Connections: the Birth of Modern Decor', continues at the Louvre in Abu Dhabi and includes a series of paintings and etchings from the XIX and XX centuries that highlight the dialogue between the East and the West (until November 24).(ANSAmed). New Delhi: Two more direct AI flights connecting Kolkata with Bangkok and Jaipur will be added from October 15, Air India said in a release on Wednesday. It said that the two flights will be operated by the Airbus 320 neo aircraft with two-class configuration. The AI is hopeful of fulfilling the long-standing demand of passengers for a convenient connection to both Bangkok and Jaipur from Kolkata. The flights to Bangkok and Jaipur from Kolkata were withdrawn by the airline about 10 years ago, Air India, sources said. Also Read Urgent hearing only if someone going to be hanged, evicted: CJI Ranjan Gogoi According to the release, here is the schedule detail of the two flights: Flight AI 336 from Kolkata to Bangkok will be operated three days a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The Kolkata-Bangkok flight will depart from Kolkata at 3.50 pm (local time) and arrive in Bangkok at 8.05 pm (local time). The incoming flight AI 337 will leave Bangkok at 5.15 am (local time) and reach Kolkata at 7 am (local time). Flight AI 737 to Jaipur will take off from Kolkata at 8.40 am to reach Jaipur at 11.10 am. The return flight will take off from Jaipur at 12.20 pm and land in Kolkata at 3 pm - on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. For all the Latest Business News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Mumbai: Two days after Tata Sky removed 32 channels of Sony Pictures Networks India (SPN) and three of TV Today Network on pricing issues, the direct-to-home (DTH) operator and the broadcaster have said they are open to negotiations to offer customers the channels. SPNs three-year contract with Tata Sky had expired on July 31, and the two since then have been negotiating on a new pricing deal. SPN president - distribution Rajesh Kaul said after the contract got over on July 31, Tata Sky had asked for an extension, so that the negotiations on the deal could come through. However, he claimed that Tata Sky has gone ahead and switched off SPNs 22 channels unilaterally, without even discussing with the company. In that sense, talks have failed, that is why they have switched off (our channels), Kaul told PTI. Also Read | To celebrate Gandhi Jayanti, Indian Railways plants 13,00,000 trees over 1,300 km of its network We are completely open to that (negotiations). This is our business so we are open to any kind of dialogue, any kind of discussion which can lead to a settlement, he added. Tata Sky chief executive officer and managing director Harit Nagpal also told PTI, We hope to positively close negotiations and get all our subscribers their desired channels as soon as possible. The commercial negotiations with the broadcasters broke down as what they were seeking would have forced us to hike our prices, said Nagpal. However, Kaul said, the biggest bone of contention is that in the last two to three years, Tata Sky has increased its subscriber base from 10 million to 16 million today and SPN has increased its bouquet of channels from 14 to 32. We are asking for an increase because of these two factors, he added. Read More | At 21, Hong Kong wicket-keeper Christopher Carter announces retirement to become a pilot The DTH players or multi-system operators pay the broadcasters on the number of subscribers they have and as per regulator Trai, the broadcasters cannot increase their rates. Nagpal said despite Sony losing marquee properties like the IPL and Kapil Sharma show, it was expecting a much higher increase compared to what Tata Sky was willing to offer, in line with the channels viewership ratings. About three weeks ago, during the negotiations, Sony published a disconnection notice applicable from September 30 midnight, he said. According to Kaul, the notice was published in accordance with Trai guidelines. He further said that the current impasse is likely to have an impact on the companys viewership and revenues. Tata Sky said it has retained the channels with good viewership numbers, at a la carte rates and are paying a huge premium (almost three times) to Sony as per their rate card versus contracted rates, in the interest of its subscribers. The DTH player has retained 10 channels including Set, Sony Sab, Set HD, and Aaj Tak. Kaul, however, claimed that Tata Sky had signed a RIO (reference inter-connect offer) for the 10 channels and it could have done the same for the other 22 channels as well. For all the Latest Business News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. ROME - United States Ambassador to Rome Lewis M. Eisenberg told an ANSA Forum on Wednesday that Italy has a ''strategic role'' in the diplomatic efforts to stabilize Libya. He said he did not know whether US President Donald Trump will take part in the conference Italy has organized on Libya that will be held in Palermo November 12-13. ''I hope he does, but I have no idea about his plans and where he may appear'', he said. Italy's leadership role, the ambassador continued, is confirmed by the fact that the international conference will be held in the country. Rome is trying to put together all sides involved in order to find a solution, Eisenberg noted, adding that he believes that the starting point is to implement the UN peace plan. According to Eisenberg, Italy's leadership role for security goes well beyond Libya. He noted that the country is second after the US for its military presence in Afghanistan and in Iraq, has a large military contingent in Lebanon and provides important aid in the Balkans. The US ambassador said Italian forces deployed for training are among the best in the world. New Delhi: A massive fire broke out at the Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, West Bengal on Wednesday. The blaze reportedly started at a pharmacy situated within the medical college premises. A total of 10 fire tenders rushed to the spot and evacuated around 250 patients, as per reports. As per initial reports, the fire started due to a short circuit, however, thereA hasA been no confirmation of it yet. "All the patients were moved from the area safely. There is thick smoke in the area, the situation will be soon brought under control," said Kolkata Mayor and Fire Minister Sovan Chatterjee. #Visuals: Fire breaks out in the pharmacy department of Kolkata Medical College and Hospital. 10 fire engines and Kolkata police rushed to the spot. All the patients are safe. #Kolkata pic.twitter.com/IX7ENRRpUu a ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 The West Bengal disaster management authorities have rushed to the spot and are taking care of the situation. The shocking incident comes a day after an explosion at Dum Dumas Nagerbazar area took the life of a seven-year-old child while injuring nine people. #Visuals from outside Kolkata Medical College and Hospital, a fire broke out in the hospital's department of pharmacy, in the morning, today. Fire firefighting operation is underway. pic.twitter.com/NOJX5bmqyc a ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 The Calcutta Medical College, which is also one of the oldest hospitals in West Bengal, is located over a huge area and has several buildings in the premises. Several patients were rushed out of the building in stretchers after the blaze broke out. In 2011, 92 people were killed after a massive fire broke out at the AMRI hospital in Kolkata. Ranchi: Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Wednesday said graduates of Jharkhand Raksha Shakti University will be given priority in employment in the state police force. The chief minister said this while addressing the foundation day function of the Jharkhand Raksha Shakti University. Modernisation of the police system cannot be done only with new weapons. For this, trained human force is required. Graduates of Jharkhand Raksha Shakti University will be given priority in employment in the Jharkhand police force, Das said. The chief minister there is requirement of security forces in many industrial units in the state. Also Read | Air India to start direct flights from Kolkata to Bangkok, Jaipur There is a continuous requirement of security forces in many other industrial units, including CCL, BCCL. Keeping this in mind, the youth are being trained in Raksha Shakti University so that they can get employment in their state, Das added. He said the youth is the pride of the country and there is no lack of talent in Jharkhand, adding all they need is right direction. We are in a digital and knowledge-based phase that is changing our living. To be compatible with modern world, two years ago, the Raksha Shakti University was established in the state. Students studying in this university will be able to successfully cope with future challenges like terrorism, economic crime, cyber crime and judicial science, he said. The chief minister said cyber police stations would be set up to deal with cyber crime. Read More | Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to Frances Arnold, George Smith, Gregory Winter for 'Power of Evolution' New ways of cyber crime have become a challenge in the present time. In order to overcome these challenges, trained and skilled human resources is needed. The state government is setting up cyber police station at identified places in the state to deal with cyber crime, he said. The chief minister said that 60 children of Tana Bhagat families have been given admission in Jharkhand Raksha Shakti University for the Certificate Course in Police Science. Authorities have taken responsibility for all their requirement during study. Das said Jharkhand Raksha Shakti University is the third university in the country for study of internal security. Within a period of just two years, it has made its mark in the education world. For all the Latest Education News, Jobs News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Sanjay Dutt, who has many films lined up on his plate and busy with back to back shoots, has taken time off his busy schedule to narrate a motivational talk to the youth in Ahmedabad. The actor has been on wheels, visiting different cities across the country, to deliver a motivational pep talk with the youth of India. Also Read | Is #MeToo an answer to the question of sexual harassment? The Munnabhai MBBS actor shared with the youth, his highs and lows in the journey called life. He talked about the many experiences that have made him the person who he is today. The highly motivational conversation comprised of his tales of drug addiction, spreading the awareness about the harmful effects to the youth. Sanjay has already visited cities like Calcutta, Delhi, and Jaipur, to serve the same purpose. His wife Manyata Dutta too accompanied him to his Jaipur visit. Next in line is Ahmedabad, and the actor seems to have geared up for the event. Also Read | Bigg Boss 12: Jasleen Matharu kisses Anup Jalota openly; watch video On the work front, Sanjay will be next seen in his upcoming Girish Malik directorial Torbaaz. The actor seems to be juggling his schedule between his home productions, Prasthanam and Kalank. The jam-packed schedule of the actor has more films like Shamshera and Panipat lined up. For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Social activist Anna Hazare, who was scheduled to go on hunger-strike from Tuesday, postpones the agitation after talks with Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan, according to news agency ANI. He was to sit on hunger over demand for appointment of Lokpal and welfare measures for farmers. Anna Hazare had said he is firm on his decision to sit on a hunger strike from October 2 at his village in Ralegan Siddhi in Maharashtra. The reason for his fast, he said, was the government's inaction over setting up of anti-corruption ombudsman 'Lokpal'. Hazare had written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi about his plan to sit on hunger strike claiming that the BJP-led government at the Centre came to power because of the Lokpal agitation. In his letter to the prime minister, Mr Hazare alleged that in the last four years the government kept dilly-dallying and did not appoint the Lokpal and Lokayuktas. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The final round of hearings in the case of Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was awarded death sentence by a Pakistani court, will start from February 18 to 21 next year, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) announced on Wednesday. Jadhav, a former Indian Navy officer, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on the charges of spying in April 2017. Pakistan claimed that Jadhav entered into its territory through Iran and was arrested from Balochistan in March 2016. Also Read | UN voices concern over India's plan to deport Rohingyas While India accepted that Jadhav was a citizen of the country, it rejected Pakistans allegations of spying and said he was abducted from Iran. In May 2017, India moved the ICJ against the verdict, terming it "egregious" violation of the provisions of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963. The world court had halted Jadhav's execution until the final verdict on Indias appeal. On August 23, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had claimed that they have "solid evidence" against Jadhav and expressed hopes to win the case. Also Read | Mayawati dumps 'arrogant' Congress, decides to go solo in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh elections "We have solid evidence against Jadhav and are hopeful we will win the case in the ICJ. We will try our best to present our stance in an effective manner before the ICJ," he had said. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The Kerala High Court on Wednesday rejected the bail plea of Roman Catholic Bishop Franco Mulakkal accused of rape and sexual assault by a nun. Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan accepted prosecutions take of the case being hampered if the accused was given the bail as he holds a high position in the society will try to influence witnesses in the case. The court also took note of the submission by the prosecution that the investigation in the case was at a crucial stage and more statements of fellow nuns have to be recorded before the magistrate under Section 164 of the CrPC in connection with the case. ALSO READ: Maharashtra moves SC against Delhi HC order ending Navlakha's arrest Kerala nun rape case: Bail plea of Franco Mulakkal, former Bishop Jalandhar, rejected by Kerala High Court ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 The investigation in the case is underway even after the arrest of the accused, the police said. Bishop Mulakkal moved the High Court after a court in Pala rejected his bail application and is currently under judicial remand in a sub-jail in Pala of Kottayam district. ALSO READ: Ranjan Gogoi sworn-in as 46th CJI; 7 important cases awaiting judgment Mulakkal is the first Bishop in India to be arrested on rape charges. He had been remanded to police custody till October 6 following three days of intense questioning in September. The nun, in her complaint to the Kottayam Police in June, had alleged that Bishop Mulakkal raped her continuously at a guest house in Kuravilangad in May 2014 and later sexually exploited her several times, adding that she had to approach the police as church authorities did not act on her constant complaints. However, the bishop has pleaded not guilty to the charges. The arrest of accused Bishop Franco Mulakkal came after massive political pressure and several protests held in Kochi by five nuns of the order. (With PTI Inputs) For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: In a shocking statement, Maharashtra Minister Deepak Vasant Kesarkar on Wednesday termed Tanushree Duttas molestation charges against Nana Patekar a publicity stunt. He, however, said if the actress can produce "concrete proof", action would be taken against Nana Patekar. Doing this for publicity is not good. I dont want to indulge in this publicity. If there is concrete proof, action will be taken, Kesarkar said in a video accessed by News Nation. Bollywood actress Tanushree Dutta, who had worked in movies like Aashiq Banaya Aapne opposite Imran Hashmi, had recently revived a 10-year-old controversy in which she alleged that Nana Patekar had sexually harassed her. Also Read | Shakti Kapoor laughs off Tanushree Dutta-Nana Patekar row; says 'I was a kid back then' In her recent interview with Zoom TV, Tanushree, who had been away from Bollywood for quite some, alleged that Nana Patekar, a National Award-winning actor, had behaved inappropriately towards her during the shooting of a song for 2008 movie Horn OK Pleassss. The actress had also claimed that Nana Patekar even sent goons from Raj Thackreys Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) to intimidate her after she walked out of shooting because of the actors inappropriate behaviour. A video of Tanushrees car being attacked by goons in 2008 has also gone viral on the internet. Also Read | Anup Jalota broke up with Jasleen Matharu to perform at a concert; Heres the proof Defending Nana Patekar, the minister said that she had been given security probably due to the attack on her car and not because of the actor in question. If she has been given security, it is because her car was attacked. It's not given due to Nana Patekar, Kesarkar added. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The mysterious deaths of 23 lions in Gujarats Gir sanctuary in the past three weeks has gained attention from the authorities. The Supreme Court probed the Centre on Wednesday to inquire into the matter amid fears that the wild cats could have died due to virus infection. Also Read | Mysterious deaths of 23 lions in Gir Sanctuary raises concern, SC probes the Centre "Today, we are faced with a peculiar problem. Lions are dying. There seems to be some kind of virus. We do not know. It is coming in newspapers. You find it out," a bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur told Additional Solicitor General A N S Nadkarni, who was appearing for the Centre. The bench of justices, S Abdul Nazeer and Deepak Gupta, was informed that in all 23 lies have died in the past three weeks. Wistfully, the sanctuary is the only abode of Asiatic Lions in the world. Also Read | Urgent hearing only if someone going to be hanged, evicted: CJI Ranjan Gogoi Advocate Ritwick Dutta asserted to the bench that if there is any kind of virus infection, it will endanger the remaining cats, which will eventually wipe out all the lions from the area. The bench was hearing a matter related to the re-introduction of cheetahs in India from Namibia in Africa. The council even suggested that the way in which the lions have died, there is a fear hanging on other animals too of the epidemic spreading among them. The Gujarat government Monday said some of the lions died due to a virus infection. It said it was yet to identify the type of virus that led to the deaths. An application was filed in the top court by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), seeking a direction that the court's 2013 decision rendered in a wildlife case does not prevent authorities from taking steps in conformity with the law to re-introduce cheetahs from Africa to suitable sites in India. Also Read | After farmers protest, Centre approves hike in MSP for Rabi crops The bench questioned the ASG about the deaths of lions in Gir sanctuary. What are you doing on the issue of lions? It is very serious, probed the bench. The ASG informed the court that a matter related to lions in Gujarat was already pending in the Supreme Court. He affirmed that he will inquire about the deaths of lions. During the hearing, NTCA's counsel said they have complied with the requirements of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), an organisation working in the field of nature conservation, for the relocation of cheetahs from Africa to India. The bench, however, asked the council whether they have taken the consent of the IUCN in this regard. Also Read | Don't want to indulge in this publicity: Maharashtra minister on Tanushree Dutta's sexual harassment allegation "You want to re-introduce cheetahs from Namibia. There is a process. IUCN is involved in the process. You are saying that you have complied with the process laid down by IUCN. Has IUCN said that you have complied with it and they have no objection?" the bench asked. NTCA's counsel said that he would take instructions in this regard whether IUCN has given consent for re-location of Cheetahs from Namibia to India. The bench has posted the matter for hearing on October 29. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Bypassing the US threat of sanctions, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin are likely to sign a deal on S-400 Triumf anti-aircraft missile systems on Thursday. Putin, who is arriving in India tomorrow, will oversee the signing of a $5 billion deal to supply Delhi with the game changer S-400 Triumf anti-aircraft missile systems. Putin is coming to India on a two-day visit to hold the annual India-Russia Summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The key feature of this visit will be the signing of the agreement to deliver S-400 air defence systems," news agency AFP quoted Vladimir Putin's top foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov as saying. Also Read | Trump administration wants trade deal with India: White House Besides the S-400 deal, boosting bilateral ties and discussion on a range of regional and global issues, including US sanctions on the import of Iranian crude oil, will be on top agenda of the annual summit. What is S-400 Triumf anti-aircraft missile systems; five points 1. The S-400 Triumf is a Russian anti-air system which can shoot down ballistic missiles at a range of 60km (37 miles). 2. An S-400 unit is composed of several launchers, command and logistics vehicles. 3. It can track as many as 300 airborne targets at a range of 600 km and can destroy up to 36 of them. Also Read | Sensex crashes 550 points on rupee woes, Nifty below 10,900 4. The Indian Air Force (IAF will receive the first S-400 squadron within 24 months of signing the deal. The rest will be delivered within the next 4-5 years. 5. India will have to pay Russia 15 per cent of the total costs on inking the contract. Rest of the amount will be paid depending on the deliveries of the systems. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday received the aUNEP Champions of The Earth Awarda at a special ceremony at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in New Delhi. aThe Champions of the Earth Awarda is United Nationsa highest environmental honour and was announced on September 26 on the sidelines of 73rd UN General Assembly in New York. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres awarded PM Modi the aChampions of The Earth Award. aIt is anA honourA for Indians. Indians are committed toA saveA the environment,a said PM Narendra Modi on receiving the 'UNEP Champions of the Earth' award. It is an honour for Indians. Indians are committed to save the environment: PM Narendra Modi on receiving the 'UNEP Champions of the Earth' award pic.twitter.com/hVnlowRyDZ a ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 The UNas highest environmental honour was bestowed up PM Modi for his leadership of the International Solar Alliance and aunprecedented pledgea to end the use of plastic by 2022. aClimate and calamity are directly related to culture; if the climate is not the focus of culture, calamity cannot be prevented. When I say aSabka Saath,a I also include nature in it,a PM Modi added. Climate and calamity are directly related to culture; if climate is not the focus of culture, calamity cannot be prevented. When I say aSabka Saath,a I also include nature in it: PM Modi at Champions of the Earth event in Delhi pic.twitter.com/hcM6Yy9eJE a ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 Five other organisation and individuals will also be honoured with the aChampions of The Earth Awarda. aThis yearsa laureates are recognised for a combination of bold, innovative, and tireless efforts to tackle some of the most urgent environmental issues of our times,a the UN Environment Programme had said earlier. Apart from PM Modi, French President Emmanuel Macron was selected under the apolicy leadershipa. Meanwhile, Cochin International Airport will receive the award for aEntrepreneurial Visiona for using sustainable energy. aCochin is showing the world that our ever-expanding network of global movement doesn't have to harm the environment. As the pace of society continues to increase, the world's first fully solar-powered airport is proof positive that green business is good business.a The annual Champions of the Earth Award, which was founded 13 years ago, is awarded to leaders from government, civil society and private sectors for having an impact on the environment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives the 'UNEP Champions of the Earth' award from United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres, at a ceremony in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/Z87AuxiUUs a ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 Afroz Shah, who led the worldas largest beach clean-up, had received the Award in 2016. The annual Champions of the Earth Award, founded 13 years ago, is given to outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions have had a positive impact on the environment. The Champions of the Earth Award winners are recognised for their excellence in categories - Policy Leadership, Entrepreneurial Vision, Science and Innovation, Inspiration and Action and Lifetime Achievement. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Syria: Putin, U.S. should obtain UN mandate for military Or Syrian request. Law does not provide for other tools (ANSAmed) - MOSCOW, OCTOBER 3 - The United States must obtain a mandate from the UN Security Council or a request from the Syrian government to deploy their military contingent in Syria because they would otherwise violate international law, Russian President Vladimir Putin told a plenary session of Russian energy week. ''There are two ways to correct the situation (the illegal presence of the US contingent in Syria). One is for the United States to obtain a mandate of the UN Security Council for the presence of military personnel in a third country, in this case Syria, or an invite from the legitimate government of the Arab Syrian Republic to deploy contingents there'', said Putin, adding that international legislation does not enable countries to deploy their military in other nations, Tass reports. (ANSAmed). New Delhi: A fresh plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking a restraint on the Government of India from deporting seven Rohingya Muslims to Myanmar, where the army is allegedly doing ethnic cleansing of the Muslim minority. Seven Rohingyas have been held in the Silchar Detention centre, Assam on charges of illegally entering India in 2012 and were scheduled to be sent back on October 3. A three-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, said it would take a decision on urgent hearing in this issue after perusing the application. The bench, also consisting of Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, was told by lawyer Prashant Bhushan that some Rohingya refugees were on the verge of being deported and the matter required urgent hearing. "Plea filed in Supreme Court for urgent hearing seeking a restraint on the Government of India from deporting 7 Rohingya Muslims lodged in the Silchar Detention centre in Assam to Myanmar. Bench declined mentioning," the news agency ANI reported. Read | Southeast Asia urges Myanmar to hold military accountable for Rohingya crisis Plea filed in Supreme Court for urgent hearing seeking a restraint on the Government of India from deporting 7 Rohingya Muslims lodged in the Silchar Detention centre in Assam to Myanmar. Bench declined mentioning. https://t.co/j9Te8XD9ZF ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 The scheduled deportations came on the heels of Indian government's 2017 order to return Rohingyas in a bid to wash out all the illegal migrants from the country. As many as 700,000 ethnic Rohingya fled an offensive by Myanmar troops launched nearly a year ago in reprisal for attacks on border posts by Rohingya rebels who took up arms against the ill-treatment of the stateless minority. Read | Facebook bans Myanmar Army Chief Min Aung Hlaing, 19 others over rights abuses However, Myanmar's army has denied nearly all wrongdoing, insisting its campaign was justified to root out Rohingya insurgents. While successive waves of Rohingyas have fled into Bangladesh, small numbers have found their way to India and Nepal while a small community has also been established in Pakistan. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Remember the feeling of desperation when youad try to hail a taxi in the pouring rain or on a street corner in the middle of the night. Expecting a car to arrive in a few minutes, and poof, the driver cancelled your ride! Gone are those days when you get cancelled on by four different drivers. After months of scandals and upheaval, a regulatory policy is being passed by the Delhi Government that has reportedly proposed to fine cab aggregators like Ola and Uber at least Rupees 25,000 for refusing trips. It also states that they will have to file a police complaint for molestation or misconduct cases reported by the passengers. A fine ofA Rupees 1 Lakh will be imposed if they fail to do so. According to a report byA The Times of India, a panel headed by PWD minister S Jain is evaluating a new draft policy called the Licencing and Regulation of App-based Aggregators Rules, 2017 and City Taxi Scheme, 2017. The draft if approved will not only put into place a system that would cap surge pricing by services such as Ola and Uber and reduce the cases wherein drivers have refused the ride at the last minute but also ensure adequate safety measures for commuters. If this policy comes into motion, cab aggregators will have to make some significant adjustments for customer satisfaction and services. Commuters have earlier reported of encountering major problems with Ola and Uber. Commuter woes include fare surge, abrupt ride cancellation, driver taking longer routes and even molestation cases In cities where a large number of people are dependent on app-based cab aggregators, this step will be welcomed by all. For all the Latest Lifestyle News, Travel News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The crude bomb blast in Kolkatas Dum Dum market area in which a child was killed and nine bystanders were injured on Wednesday could well be the work of forces that are out to vitiate the atmosphere in the run up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. It is common knowledge that the key parties in the polls are playing to high stakes with the Trinamool Congress and the BJP at daggers drawn and a general atmosphere of deep animosity. There is no evidence to suggest who could be behind the blast but the fact that despite there being no proof of the BJP or the RSS involvement, the Trinamool has gone ahead by hurling wild allegations of their involvement only goes to show that the blame game is already in full swing. Read Opinion | KCR may rue decision to prepone polls in Telangana That the BJP on its part while denying any involvement has blamed the law and order machinery and faulted the ruling dispensation of Mamata Banerjee for it is also on predictable lines. The hard reality is that religious polarisation with the Mamata Banerjee government using the minority Muslims as a vote bank and the BJP-RSS seeking to consolidate the Hindus under its umbrella is fast building up. The minority Muslims, who are heavily outnumbered in many other states, are in substantial numbers in West Bengal and their voting pattern is crucial to the success of legislator-aspirants. When the National Registry of Citizens (NRC) recently identified huge infiltration of refugees into Assam over the years from Bangladesh and earlier East Pakistan as it was called, fingers were also pointed at the way Muslim population had swelled in neighbouring West Bengal. It was then surmised that there was a major element of illegal immigrants among them who needed to be disenfranchised and if possible deported. While the NRC report dealt with Assam, it was commonly believed that West Bengal was no different. Read Opinion | Ayodhya Verdict: Why aggressive temple campaign blurs the title issue There was major acrimony when Mamata Banerjee held out the warning that her party would not tolerate the Bangladeshi Muslims being declared illegal en masse and that any attempt to disenfranchise them would be strongly resisted. Clearly, the motivation was political because the immigrants were overwhelming supporters of the Trinamool Congress government (earlier of the Congress when that party held sway in West Bengal), who depended on the government to protect their interests. Without their support, the Trinamool would not be a power to reckon with. It now appears inconceivable that the NRC could give a comprehensive report on Bengal before the elections to the Lok Sabha and to the West Bengal assembly so the TMC is flexing its muscles while the BJP gnashes its teeth in frustration. The manner in which ministers in the Mamata Banerjee government have gone about pre-judging the guilty party in the Dum Dum blast and the police has pitched in with them leaves one wondering how the authorities have jumped to that conclusion. Read More | How relevant are Indian financial institutions in new global scenario It was strange that the authorities cleaned up the blood-stained part of the road before the forensic experts arrived. Would that not compromise the work of the police in establishing a link between the bomb blast perpetrators and the workers of any political party that may have had a hand in engineering the blast? It is such suspicious circumstances of destruction of evidence that lead to the demand for the CBI to step in and take over the investigation of cases. It is incumbent on the authorities to ensure that in the run up to the elections cases of suspicious circumstances in fomenting communal trouble are not allowed to multiply. The police must show requisite integrity in the face of governmental pressures and the judiciary and the media must play their part diligently and impartially. The Election Commission must also gear up to face new challenges. All in all, there are challenges galore for the Centre, the State government, the police, the poll body and for the people at large to unmask mischievous elements so that they can be tracked and punished. Bengaluru: Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhara Rao, popularly known as KCR, could well be ruing his decision to call for early snap polls in the state as it has only catalysed the formation of a grand alliance of Opposition parties. Also, his decision on dissolving assembly has robbed him of valuable opportunity to woo voters with new schemes and projects after the Election Commission issued a shocker with the model code of conduct. Neither the state government nor the central government can take a major decision relating to Telengana, putting paid to KCRs plans to dole out pre-poll sops to the electorate. But even before the dissolution, KCR launched two major rural initiatives: Rythu Bandhu and Rythu Beema and other welfare schemes for different sections of the society. ALSO READ: A closer look at global ranking of higher education institutions Ruling Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) leader in Telangana, T Bhanuprasad, is sure that good governance, fast-paced development and accelerated growth combined with a plethora of welfare schemes will ensure the return of KCR with ease. But it is easier said than done as arithmetic on the ground appears to be against the ruling regional party. The TRS was banking on the impossibility of sworn enemies the Congress and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) coming together and roping in smaller outfits to present a real challenge. Seat sharing will be smooth and there will be common agenda for fighting the elections, hoped Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president N Uttam Kumar Reddy. Before the notification for assembly elections are issued, the common agenda will be announced. A broad consensus has been reached among the grand alliance partners the Congress, TDP, CPI and the TJS. ALSO READ: Did India miss the train in calling off talks with Pakistan? Since all political parties would have their own manifestoes, a common agenda is being prepared with a broader consensus, Reddy said. Leaders of the Congress, TDP and the Telangana Jana Samithi are thrashing out ground-level arrangements even as the leadership of the alliance partners will work out final agreement on seat sharing. Senior TDP leader E Peddi Reddy told a private TV channel talks are on. But final seat sharing will be decided only once the poll schedule is announced. A senior Congress leader indicated talks were slow as aspirations were high. There will have to be a give and take, he said, but added, Only the Congress high command will take a decision on seat-sharing formula. According to Congress sources, the party local unit was willing to only give 20-25 out of the total 119 seats as against the demand for nearly double that number from the allies. ALSO READ: Ayodhya Verdict: Why aggressive temple campaign blurs the title issue For the Congress, it is a now or never kind of a situation. Which is why, the local leadership prevailed upon the central leadership to clear its proposal to tie up with the TDP. Senior Congress leaders, however, made it very clear that in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, the Congress will fight it out with the ruling TDP. In the previous general elections to the Telangana Assembly, held along with the Lok Sabha polls, the TRS emerged as the largest single party with a comfortable majority in terms of numbers. But in terms of vote share, though it was much ahead of its rivals, had they contested together TRS would have found it difficult to attain power. The combine vote percentage of the Congress, the TDP and the Left comes to 44 per cent as against 34 per cent of TRS (as per percentage of vote share in the seats the party contested). Now, clearly, the arithmetic is something that has given jitters to the chief minister. In steps, the BJP with an aggressive campaign as launched by party national president Amit Shah against a ruthlessly corrupt TRS government to muddy the field. But what the presence of the BJP with an aggressive campaign can do is to split the anti-government vote to harm the Congress-TDP-Left combine and help the ruling TRS. But the moot question is whether the BJP can win enough votes to help the TRS, which was giving enough hints through its performance in the Parliament so far, that post 2019 general elections to Lok Sabha it would back the NDA formation. Telangana, like neighbouring Tamil Nadu, presents a tough nut to crack for the two national parties, the Congress and the BJP. Which is why, the Congress has been left piggy-riding on the might of regional forces in different states and more so in South India. In Tamil Nadu, it is at the mercy of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and in Karnataka, the recent assembly polls have shown that it can prevent the BJP only if it teams up with the Janata Dal-United. The Telangana experiment, if it works, reflects the pragmatic strategy of localised tie-ups and alliances that are state-specific as announced by AICC president Rahul Gandhi. Interestingly, the Congress and the regional groupings are being forced to come together by the aggression of an expanding BJP, which poses a threat to the regional forces that are ruling the root in different states. It is precisely for this reason that the SP and the BSP hope to tie up to block the BJP in the countrys most populous state. (Click HERE for More Opinion) [contextly_auto_sidebar] ONE of the great hidden figures in musical history is Billy Strayhorn, who seems to be a bit less invisible every year. When I was getting hard into jazz in the early 90s, haunting record stores and hoarding Coltrane and Mingus records right after college, Joe Hendersons Lush Life album came out and electrified the jazz world: One of the greatest saxophonists of the 60s was re-emerging with a tribute to an Ellington confrere I may not have even heard of at that point, That record, and the David Hadju biography as well as digging into great Strayhorn numbers like Blood Count and Day Dream (so hauntingly covered by Chet Baker near the end of his life) made clear to me and others that the Dukes arranger (gay, introverted, modest) was a serious figure of his own. Were now a few decades into the Strayhorn revival, and were now about to get a new theater/dance piece, based on the artists life and work, at REDCAT/ Disney Hall. I enjoyed meeting David Rousseve, the choreographer behind Halfway To Dawn ; he comes from Louisiana Creoles,was raised mostly in Houston, broke in as an artist in the 80s East Village, and had a lot to say about the way culture, ethnicity, and artistic scenes work. In any case here is my Los Angeles Times piece on Strayhorn and Halfway To Dawn. Back in the 80's U.S. Rep. Tip O'Neal (Massachusetts) made famous the term "All Politics is Local." It made sense back then and it held up well as the way to campaign over the years. But things have changed in America today. Issues that are significantly important to me here at home are national in scope and are shaped by our national leaders. Patriotism, the military, respect for America and its flag, faith, law and order, the Constitution, the Supreme Court, our economy, international trade agreements, healthcare, national sovereignty, illegal immigration, border control, and out of control "entitlement" programs all impact me here locally. And all of them are increasingly legislated and enforced at the national level. Politics are no longer so much local as they are national. So in Tennessee we must elect and send to Washington the very best senators we can to ensure our national legislators do right by us. Early voting starts in two weeks -- Oct. 17. On that day I will proudly cast my vote for Tennessee's Marsha Blackburn for the U.S. Senate. Her election is crucial to help ensure Republicans maintain control of the U.S. Senate and therefore continue to Make America Great Again. Her opponent, Phil Bredesen (who will be 75 in November and is no doubt an honorable gentleman), if elected will legislate exactly as he instructed by his friend, New York Democratic Senate Leader Chuck Schumer. Indeed it's reported that New York's Chuck Schumer recruited Phil Bredesen to run for the Senate in an attempt to "flip" Tennessee's Republican Senatorial seat to the Democrats. Most of New York Chuck Schumer's positions (and therefore Phil Bredesen's) run counter to my beliefs on the key national issues facing Tennesseans. We don't need New York telling us how to vote or live. I hope you will join me and all patriotic Tennesseans in voting for Marsha Blackburn for the U.S. Senate in the upcoming election. Her election is vital in helping Tennesseans Make America Great Again. It matters locally, here at home. B. B. Bell General, US Army (Retired) BROOKFIELD A town committee plans to apply for a $25,000 prize for the Still River Greenways efforts to improve community health. The Board of Selectmen voted this week to permit the Still River Greenway Ad-Hoc Committee to seek the prize for the paved pathway. A conservative county supervisor in central Virginia is drawing criticism for a tweet about gunning down pro-marijuana demonstrators who stormed the Capitol Hill office of Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md. Manuel Alvarez Jr., a Republican supervisor in rural Goochland County, saw a post on his Twitter feed about protesters trying to force their way into Harris' office on Tuesday and tweeted his reply to his 636 followers. "With one reload, I can take 34 of them. But my guess is one will be sufficient," Alvarez wrote. After logging back onto Twitter later Tuesday, Alvarez noticed the negative reaction to the post and deleted it. "It was a joke; nothing more than that," Alvarez said Wednesday, calling the post "stupid" during a telephone interview. "Everybody here knows me, knows who I am, and that I'm not that way. I shouldn't have done it." But at a time when the country is deeply polarized and grappling with repeated mass shootings in schools and elsewhere, the tweet generated a strong and outraged response. "Really Manny? You should be careful of what you say, sounds a lot like a threat," one commenter posted. "You are better than that." "Wow, making death threats?" wrote another. "Seems like something else the @FBI should investigate." Tina Winkler, co-chair of the local Democratic Party committee, said Alvarez and another Republican supervisor have been posting "rage tweets" during the past few months, catching many in the quiet community of 22,300 off guard with, among other things, their ardent defenses of President Donald Trump and Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to the Supreme Court. A few weeks ago, Winkler said, she called Alvarez to ask him to tone things down after he posted tweets critical of Democrats in his community. "We don't do that kind of politics in Goochland," Winkler said. Alvarez - who was elected in 2011 on a platform of cutting public spending in Goochland - arrived in the Richmond area as a refugee from Cuba during the early 1970s after his parents fled Fidel Castro's regime. As a county supervisor, Alvarez has focused mostly on local causes, such as improving Internet connectivity in Goochland. Online, however, he frequently weighs in on national politics. "Flake should have been removed as a senator for colluding with the enemy Castro brothers," he tweeted in response to a decision by Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., to call for the FBI to investigate the allegations facing Kavanaugh. Alvarez said he is not a sophisticated user of social media. He said he tweeted his reply to the demonstration outside Harris' office without really understanding what it was about, half distracted by preparations for that night's county board meeting. After noticing that someone on his Twitter feed posted that Harris' office had been broken into, he said, his gut instinct as a gun owner was that he would want to protect himself if he were in that situation. "I responded to what seemed like a threat inside someone's office or home," Alvarez said. "My office is in my home, and if somebody broke in here, I would do whatever I could to protect my family." Alvarez said he's saddened by the stir he's caused. "I would never do that," he said of shooting protesters. "It's not in my character. It's not in my nature." Referring to Twitter, Alvarez said: "I think I'm just going to have to get off of it." A moment later, asked if he was serious about quitting social media, he said: "Probably not." WASHINGTON - The Senate Intelligence Committee's investigation of Russian interference in U.S. politics, begun just days after Donald Trump took office, is unlikely to end this year, according to people involved with the probe who say its challenging final phase risks jeopardizing the bipartisan cooperation that has evaded other congressional panels examining related matters. The 15-member committee has been an atypical oasis of functionality in a Congress that routinely splinters along party lines when questions are raised about the political implications of Russia's plot to influence the 2016 election and any role Trump's associates may have had in those efforts. The continued harmony is due, in part, to the commitment of Sens. Richard Burr, R-N.C., and Mark Warner, D-Va., the panel's chairman and vice chairman, to keep the process collaborative - and their calculated decision early on to postpone directly assessing whether Trump's campaign conspired with Moscow. That work will not begin until after November's high-stakes election, which could result in Democrats retaking majorities in Congress. Officials insist the timeline is not intended to let lawmakers avoid having to address a divisive issue before the midterms. In a brief interview, Burr promised the committee would release additional findings at some point this month, as it has periodically upon reaching conclusions about election security and the quality of the intelligence community's assessment about Russia's activities in 2016. The committee's next preliminary reports are expected to address the Obama administration's response to the Russian threat and the role social media companies played in the dissemination of Moscow's disinformation campaign. "We hope in the next two weeks to give everybody a status update," Burr told The Washington Post recently. "We'll be very specific on where we are and where the path forward is." But leaders are no longer confident they can wrap up their interviews, much less their final report, by the year's end. "We've been at it this long, we need to continue, finish in a thorough manner," Warner told The Washington Post. Asked whether tackling the collusion question would strain the panel's cohesion, he added, "Time will tell." The Intelligence Committee is one of five congressional panels that have investigated the U.S. intelligence community's assessment that Russian President Vladimir Putin directed a sophisticated operation to exploit American societal divisions leading up to the 2016 election, with the goal of helping Trump attain the White House, and federal law enforcement agencies' efforts to determine whether members of the Trump campaign were involved. The work of the other four - the Senate Judiciary Committee and the House Intelligence, Judiciary and Oversight committees - has been upended by partisan feuding and distrust, leaving the investigation led by Burr and Warner as the only one with a chance of being received as credible by members of both parties. Initially, the Senate Intelligence Committee was supposed to end its work by the end of 2017. Burr then predicted it would happen around Valentine's Day - and then August. Recently, the committee's leaders suggested they could finish by year's end - but Warner now acknowledges they set that timeline "aspirationally." The committee has not finished its interviews, Burr said, noting that the roster has grown "significantly" since the probe began in January 2017. It is possible, too, aides to the committee said, that unforeseen developments, especially resulting from Special Counsel Robert Mueller's parallel investigation, could require additional interviews. Several of the 100-plus witnesses already interviewed have been questioned about allegations Trump's campaign coordinated with the Kremlin, but the committee has not yet set out to draw conclusions from their answers. Publicly, Burr and Warner say they are committed to keeping the committee's work bipartisan through the end - a stance that has set them apart from the House Intelligence Committee, where the investigation's findings have resulted in separate reports, and the House Judiciary and Oversight committees, whose rancorous probe of the FBI and Justice Department also is unlikely to end with a consensus. But privately, people involved in and close to the Senate Intelligence Committee's investigation worry about whether Democrats and Republicans will stick together when they issue their findings and it comes to stating whether they believe there is conclusive evidence of a conspiracy between Trump's campaign and the Russians. Sharp divisions on that point between otherwise conciliatory lawmakers already are on display. "We have no hard evidence of collusion," Burr said during a Fox News interview last month, though he was quick to add that the investigation is "not over" and the issue "has not been finalized at all." But Burr surmised the committee was unlikely to find anything indicating the president and the Kremlin had coordinated to affect the election's outcome. "I can't really tell you," he said. ". . . Maybe we find something in the next several interviews that are evidence of collusion. I don't think so, with what we've seen." Warner has taken the opposite tack, refusing to presuppose anything and taking every opportunity to say that the volume of and secrecy surrounding contacts between the Trump campaign and the Kremlin appear to be potentially incriminating. The longer the process goes on, there is a greater chance its conclusions will hew to those reached by Mueller's team, many Democrats argue. Mueller's probe is widely seen as the ultimate arbiter of whether the activities of Trump and his subordinates were incidental or nefarious. Panel Republicans are less eager to adhere to Mueller's timeline - but also wary of prematurely shuttering the probe. "I don't know if the process particularly has to stay open. . . . You could issue a report and then if new information becomes available, focus on that," Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., a committee member, said in a brief interview when asked about the need to work around Mueller's schedule. But he added that he "wouldn't set a timeline" on the probe, "because it's largely driven by information." "You don't want to end it earlier than it needs to, because you may be walking away from the potential to acquire additional information and testimony that might be relevant to our findings," Rubio said. Committee leaders estimate it will take three to six months to complete a final report. Junior hunters in New York, ages 14-15, can hunt deer and bear during the Columbus Day weekend with a firearm. The special Youth Firearms Big Game Hunt, which is designed to introduce youth across the state to hunting in a safe and responsible way, begins Saturday morning and runs through sunset on Monday. It will take place in both the Northern Zone and Southern Zones. Exceptions included bowhunting-only areas and Suffolk County. The young hunters must have a hunter safety course under their belt and a hunting license - and also be accompanied by an unarmed, adult (age 21 or older) with a hunting license. The young hunters are allowed to take one deer and/or bear. Both junior hunter and the mentor must wear blaze orange visible from all directions and junior hunters are not allowed to hunt from a treestand or hunt from an elevated platform. In addition, the adult mentor must maintain physical contact over the junior hunter at all times while hunting. This means the mentor and junior hunter must be close enough to talk without the aid of radio and must be able to see each other. For more on the hunt, see the DEC website. SEND US YOUR DEER AND BEAR PHOTOS We'd like to see photos of deer and bear shot by Upstate New York youngsters during the Columbus Day Weekend Youth Firearms Big Game Hunt. Send your photos and information about the successful hunt to outdoors writer David Figura at dfigura@NYup.com. Photos must be tasteful. Pictures that are bloody or show the tongue hanging out of the animal's mouth will not be published on NYup.com. The White House released a National Strategic Overview for Quantum Information Science that outlines its plan for advancing the field. The Department of Energy and National Science Foundation also announced grant awards totaling $218 million and $31 million. The Office of Advanced Scientific Computing Research is awarding $81 million to develop computing hardware and software, including two new quantum computing testbeds at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories that will operate similarly to DOEs other national user facilities. The Offices of Basic Energy Sciences and High Energy Physics are awarding $106 million and $31 million, respectively, to advance R&D on a wide range of topics, from quantum materials synthesis techniques to quantum-based sensors capable of detecting dark matter particles. This push in Quantum Information Science funding follows the DARPA $2 billion over 5 years for Artificial Intelligence. DARPAs multi-year strategy seeks contextual reasoning in AI systems to create more trusting, collaborative partnerships between humans and machines. China had announced $10 billion for Quantum research a new facility opening in 2020. Alibaba and other chinese companies will commit over $15 billion for AI and quantum computing research. China has demonstrated rapid advances and genuine innovation in a range of hi-tech disciplines that have potentially transformative implications for its strategic competition with the US and other actors in the Indo-Pacific. The US government is increasingly concerned that Chinas ability to marshal and direct the resources of its hi-tech sector in support of development goals represents a strategic advantage. Choosing a science-first approach to QIS * Strengthen Federally-funded core research programs and use approaches ranging from distributed small grants to centers and consortia where appropriate, to support long-term QIS research * Foster dialogue and collaboration between quantum-focused researchers across disciplines, and engage the broader scientific community to highlight and share relevant scientific advances, and grow and coordinate the quantum research community * Establish and utilize a formal coordination body, such as the National Science and Technology Council Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science (SCQIS) * Focus on Grand Challenges as a mechanism for driving advancements in the science and technology of QIS, and encourage Federal agencies to identify, prioritize, and coordinate investment in both fundamental and applied challenges Creating a quantum-smart workforce for tomorrow * Encourage industry and academia to create convergent, trans-sector approaches for diverse workforce development to meet the Nations QIS needs * Use and enhance existing programs to increase the size of the QIS-ready workforce * Encourage academia to consider quantum science and engineering as its own discipline, with needs for new faculty, programs, and initiatives at all levels * Address education in the area of quantum science at an early stage, including elementary, middle and high school levels * Reach out to broader audiences by working with involved agencies and industry to highlight their investments, along with novel or unconventional approaches like utilizing art, media, and engagement with cultural institutions * Encourage the QIS community to track and estimate the future workforce needs of quantum industry Deepening engagement with quantum industry Providing critical infrastructure Maintaining national security and economic growth Advancing international cooperation On Tuesday, Trump defended Kavanaugh, calling him a high-quality person and a top intellect. He told reporters at the White House that he hoped McConnell could bring the confirmation vote to the Senate floor this week, but it will be dependent on what comes back from the FBI. They're working very hard. And let's see what happens. Troy The Blackhawk helicopter scheduled to land Tuesday at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to kick off the new vertical aeronautics engineering school was grounded due to bad weather. Inside, the U.S. Army's technology director said the venerable aircraft, which has been in service for some three decades, will be making way for a future that belongs to smaller but deadly unmanned drones with artificial intelligence that can swarm targets without human intervention, if necessary. Drones will be faster, cheaper and lighter than the five-ton Blackhawks, which cost about $22 million apiece, and even the next-generation helicopters now now being developed, said Jeff Singleton, a 34-year civilian engineer who is now technology director for the Army. The Army is including so-called "vertical lift" aeronautics which is the specialty of RPI's new Center for Mobility with Vertical Lift (MOVE) as one of six key areas in a $6.2 billion innovation effort, Singleton said during the center's kick-off meeting. A large helicopter like the Blackhawk needs air superiority to reduce risks to its four-man crew, but unmanned drones can operate in more hostile skies without risking soldiers' lives, he said. Without a human crew to protect, the drones would require much less armor, making them lighter and faster than manned aircraft. The Army also wants drones, Singleton said, that are able to carry weapons or cargo farther, and have advanced artificial intelligence that will allow the craft by itself, in a group or as part of a force including manned aircraft to pick out and attack targets even without being directed by a human operator who could be hundreds of miles away or more. "The drone swarms will have to think. The swarms will have to respond to their drivers," said Singleton, who manages a $2.4 billion annual technology budget. He started with the Army in the early 1980s as a researcher specializing in rotorcraft dynamics, structural mechanics, and aeromechanics. MOVE Director Farhan Gandhi, who also directs RPI's aerospace program, said the center currently has 10 RPI faculty and two affiliated faculty, and 21 doctoral students. "Fueled by explosive growth in the emergent field of electric VTOL aircraft (vertical take-off and landing), as well as the U.S. Defense Department's interest in high-speed VTOL aircraft, vertical lift technology is undergoing a major renaissance and is at one of the most exciting points in its development history," said Gandhi. The new center is supported by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, as well as aircraft makers Sikorsky, Boeing, and Chinese-owned Terrafugia, which is developing a flying car. Other support comes from the U.S. Army Research Laboratory, National Rotorcraft Technology Center, Aviation Applied Technology Directorate, Aviation and Missile Research Development and Engineering Center, Office of Naval Research, and the Israel Ministry of Defense. The median sale price for single-family homes hit the highest level for August in five years, even as the number of houses sold decreased by 4.2 percent over the same period a year earlier, according to the latest data from the Massachusetts-based publisher of the Commercial Record. August data released by The Warren Group Wednesday showed the median sale price of single-family homes increased by 2.4 percent to $271,500. That represents a $6,250 increase in the median sale price. Over the first eight months of 2018, the median sale price rose 4 percent to $260,000, which represents an increase of $10,000. The increases in the median sale price came even as the number of homes sold for August and over the first eight months of this year declined. There were 163 fewer single-family homes sold in Connecticut in August compared to the same period a year earlier. There were 23,234 single-family homes sold in Connecticut through the end of August, 81 fewer than the same period the year period in 2017. That represents a 0.4 percent decrease in year-to-date home sales. Timothy Warren, chief executive officer of The Warren Group, said based on historical trends seen with single-family home sales data, we can probably expect the price to start edging lower on a month-over-month basis during the remainder of 2018. However, if inventory fails to keep up with demand like weve seen in the last few months year-over-year price gains could continue for a while longer, Warren said in a statement. Connecticuts housing market saw growth in both the number of condominium sales sold in August as well as the median sale price. The number of condominium sales in Connecticut increased by 3.8 percent in August to 956 units. Year-to-date, the number of condominium units that were sold increased by 1.6 percent to 6,128. The median sale price for condominiums rose by 4.7 percent, or $8,050, to $177,950. Condominium sales in the first eight months of this year increased by 2.8 percent, or $4,625, to $168,125 compared to the same period in 2017. Warren said the median condo sale price for August at its highest level thus far in 2018. Condos sales also reached a new high for the year, but activity still remains below where it was at its peak in 2006, he said. New Haven County saw the number of condominiums sold in August decline by 4.5 percent to 234. Year-to-date condominium sales in the county grew by 3.9 percent to 1,586 compared to the first eight months of 2017. The median sale price for New Haven County condominiums that were sold in August grew by 0.6 percent to $146,000. The median sale price for condominiums over the first eight months of this year fell by 1.4 percent to $140,000. Single-family home sales in New Haven County during August decreased by 3.6 percent to 776. Single-family home sales over the first eight months of 2018 increased by 2.7 percent to 5,211 compared to the same period a year earlier. The New Haven County housing market saw solid gains in median sale price. The single-family median sale price in August increased by $11,000, or 4.8 percent, to $241,000. During the first eight months of this year, the single-family home median sale price increased by 4.5 percent, or $10,000, to $230,000 compared to the same period in 2017. luther.turmelle@hearstmediact.com When Italia Yachts chose southwestern Connecticut for its first U.S. sales office, it had any number of Gold Coast enclaves in which to weigh anchor, from Greenwich to Westport. Its port of call? Milford a choice that more businesses are making as local economies continue to build momentum off an ongoing surge in the markets. New Haven led Connecticuts largest cities in economic performance in 2017, according to a new study by the Connecticut Department of Labor, with Milford edging Danbury for the top score among smaller cities in southwestern Connecticut. Oxford topped all towns in the region, with North Stonington having the best-performing economy in the state regardless of population. The Connecticut Department of Labor assesses economic performance according to household employment and wage trends, and any changes to the numbers of business establishments in any given locale on a net basis. The index omits several other important economic criteria, including the relative performances of residential real estate markets that can be a telltale for the desirability of a town for newcomers considering their options on where to live; and office occupancies that provide a window into the hiring of companies located within a town. As an example, Greenwich is ranked 155th on the statewide list, despite an ever-shrinking vacancy rate in its downtown area as the run-up on Wall Street trickles down to the professional firms in its downtown business sector. Rising scores On the DOL index, Hartford had the best improvement of any city in Connecticut with at least 100,000 inhabitants, edging New Havens year-over-year comparison. Among smaller municipalities with populations between 25,000 and 100,000 people, Mansfield made the biggest jump just ahead of Orange, with Franklin registering the biggest gain among smaller towns statewide and Darien ranking 12th to edge one rung ahead of Sherman to lead the southwestern corner of the state, with the two towns also leading the region for economic gains since 2014. Municipalities statewide saw a sizable upswing on this years DOL index, with only nine Connecticut towns suffering a drop in their economic score including Newtown and Fairfield. What represents strong economic performance in Connecticut pales to other parts of the country. The New Haven-Milford region ranked in the bottom 40 percent of metropolitan areas nationally for year-over-year employment growth in August, with a 1.1 percent gain, versus 1.4 percent in the Danbury economic zone and 6.9 percent in Atlantic City, N.J., which led the Northeast and ranked third nationally. With a meager 0.7 percent employment growth over the intervening year, the Greenwich-Bridgeport corridor only barely cracked the top 300 regions for hiring momentum, relegating the area to the bottom 25 percent of metropolitan clusters nationally. Easing the burden For the fall elections, the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities is pressing candidates to consider ways to alleviate the financial burden the states cities and towns are carrying, particularly with regard to new laws that force them to increase spending with a waterfall effect on local property taxes that represent the major source of revenue for cities and towns. CCM wants not just a ban on new edicts from Hartford, but a rollback of prior mandates such as exemptions on taxes for certain classes of properties, or requirements for towns to pick up much of the cost of educational services for children with extra needs in the school environment. State underfunding of local public education over time has shifted a huge unfair tax burden onto the backs of residential and business property taxpayers, stated Joel DeLong, executive statement of CCM, in a written statement this week in support of the nonprofits government priorities. To continue to transfer state budget problems to towns and cities and their property taxpayers is unfair, and it shortchanges Connecticuts future. Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman Almost half of Americans now oppose confirming Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the U.S. Supreme Court, a figure that has climbed in the past month, according to a national Quinnipiac University Poll released Tuesday. Forty-eight percent of those surveyed said Kavanaugh should not be on the high court, compared to 42 percent who support his confirmation. The opposition has climbed six points since a poll taken in early September. HAMDEN - The Hamden Regional Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Senior & Caregiver Festival Oct. 11, giving local seniors and their families the opportunity to learn about and take advantage of services available in the community. The event has been held by the Chamber for several years, membership director Lynn Fredricksen said Tuesday. The aim is to share information about goods and services that will help keep local seniors happy and healthy, she said - an important mission for the group. This year, vendors will offer health screenings, recipes and other information, Fredricksen said. Groups manning booths will include movers, to aid families with the possibility of downsizing; home health care professionals; and senior living facilities. I hope that (those who come out) learn something new, said Fredricksen. According to a news release, other services and goods to be offering will include: seasonal flu shots provided by VNA Community Healthcare; a mini tag sale; a selection of handmade knitted and crocheted items offered for sale by the Power of Yarn Club; holiday cards, wine charms, coasters, notebooks, and an assortment of baked goods by the Arts & Crafts Club and the new Baking Club, and hearing and blood pressure assessments. Kim Vertrees, community liaison with Connecticut In-Home Assistance and the head of the chambers Health & Wellness Committee, said this will be her fifth year participating in the event. Approximately 200 people come out each year, she said. She plans to have emergency whistles and flashlights available at her booth appropriate, she said, given the recent tornado as well as information about the agency. Its a great event. Theres a great turnout every year, said Vertrees. Its probably one of the best health fairs I do every year. The event will also promote the ongoing Paint Hamden Pink! community effort to promote breast cancer awareness and raise funds for the American Cancer Society, Vertrees said. Paint Hamden Pink! was kicked off for the year on Sept. 20. The free event will be held from 9 a.m. to noon in the Thornton Wilder Auditorium at Miller Memorial Library, Fredricksen said. william.lambert@hearstmediact.com EAST HAVEN The McDonalds on Main Street hosted a grand re-opening celebration Tuesday, showcasing upgraded offerings and its new, modern decor. McDonalds recently announced that the company and its franchisees are investing approximately $84 million in Connecticut throughout 2018 and 2019 on the construction and modernization of 90 McDonalds restaurants, transforming the customer experience inside and outside the restaurant, according to a release. In total, McDonalds and franchisees are investing $6 billion to modernize most U.S. restaurants by 2020, including most restaurants in Connecticut, the release said. The upgrades featured at the restaurant at 687 Main St. in East Haven are reflective of a new restaurant model that has been successfully rolled out in hundreds of McDonalds restaurants across New England that gives guests more choice and control by evolving how they order, what they order, how they pay and how they are served, the company said in the release. A ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday morning highlighted the changes. The ceremony included the Connecticut American Legion Color Guard doing a flag raising, members of the East Haven High School Band playing the national anthem, and area officials speaking. The event also included a check presentation, where the East Haven Food Pantry, the East Haven High School Band and the color guard were beneficiaries. Not only will customers notice a modern look and feel with new designs at their local Golden Arches, but they will notice new ways of ordering their favorite meals, McDonalds officials said in the release. For those looking to order at their own pace, the new and improved McDonalds offers digital self-order kiosks that make ordering and paying for a meal easy. Kiosks empower guests to browse the menu, find new options and tailor their meal just the way they want. The McDonalds mobile app allows customers to place orders and pay within the app for those looking to order on the go. At the drive-thru, customers simply give the order code to the crew, then pull forward to the pick-up window, officials said in the release. Local customers will also see another new offering: table service. When ordering through the kiosks, guests orders are delivered to tables by McDonalds crew members, allowing customers to relax and enjoy a more custom and relaxed dining experience, according to the release. McDonalds owner/operators and restaurant teams are placing a higher emphasis on hospitality by focusing on greeting customers, assisting with technology and ensuring a clean, welcoming environment, company officials said in the release. This new modernization is about transforming the customer experience through enhanced hospitality and with the addition of self-order kiosks restaurants are transitioning some roles to more customer engaging positions like Guest Experience Leaders and table service, creating more opportunities for employees to interact with guests, according to the release. Were happy to be delivering a better experience in customer dining and choice to East Haven, local owners and operators Dick and Kathryn Spero said in the release. Weve all had the traditional interaction at a McDonalds restaurant. You approach the counter, you place an order, you move to the next line to pick up your food and then move again to another area for straws, napkins and drinks. Now we are placing every step of this experience in the hands of our valued customers. From touch screen kiosks and mobile ordering to table service, we are redefining and reinventing the McDonalds experience. WEST HAVEN Friday is a big day for Mario and Francine Iannotti Coppola, as well as for local Italian-Americans. The West Haven Columbus Day Committee will honor the couple as Italian-Americans of the Year at the citys 20th annual Columbus Day Celebration. The award is given each year to a resident, or couple, of Italian descent who personifies service in West Havens Italian-American community. Mario Coppola owned and operated Mario & Joseph Mens Shop on Campbell Avenue for 30 years. Francine Coppola is the former director of West Haven Adult Education. They will receive the joint award at an 11:30 a.m. ceremony on the steps of City Halls Main Street entrance, the city announced in a news release. The ceremony will feature Italian music and members of the West Haven Italian-American Civic Association will escort the couple to the City Hall steps to accept the honor. The couples name will join the 19 previous Columbus Day recipients on a plaque in City Hall. A lunch will follow in the First Congregational Church of West Havens Fellowship Hall, at 1 Church St. opposite City Hall on the Green. It is a privilege and an honor to be recognized for this award, said Francine Coppola in the release, speaking on the couples behalf. West Haven has been our home for 45 years and we are happy to support the city and its Italian community. The Coppolas have been married for 45 years. They will be joined for the Columbus Day festivities by dozens of their good friends and loved ones, along with city and state dignitaries and members of the Italian-American community. I am pleased to recognize Mario and Francine as West Havens Italian Couple of the Year, said Mayor Nancy Rossi. Marios personal narrative is the essence of the American dream, Rossi said in the release. He immigrated to the United States as a young man. With drive and determination, he established himself as a successful business owner. Francine is a dedicated public servant who committed herself to education, Rossi said. Through a different path, she expressed her commitment to the community by supporting adults who sought to improve their lives through educational advancements. The Coppolas represent all the positive contributions that Italian-Americans make to our economy, our society and to our collective American culture, she said. Mario Coppola, born in the town of San Salvatore Telesino in the province of Benevento, Italy, immigrated to the United States at age 16 in 1961 with his father, Francesco. After settling in West Haven, they opened Coppola Tailor Shop at Elm Street and First Avenue in 1963. Three years later, Coppola was drafted in the Vietnam War. He served stateside for several years in the Army Reserve and trained at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and Fort Lee, Virginia. In March 1972, Coppola and his longtime friend and business partner, Joseph DeFrancesco, established the first Mario & Joseph Mens Shop in Branford. Four years later, they opened the West Haven shop, at 495 Campbell Ave. Both locations thrived for many years. Coppola, a respected business owner, closed the West Haven store in 2006 after DeFrancesco retired. He closed the Branford store when he retired in 2015. Coppola said he met DeFrancesco while taking an English class at West Haven Adult Education, the same program Francine Coppola led years later for two decades. Along with the Adult Education program, which is mostly based at West Haven High School, Francine Coppola was the English-as-a-second-language bilingual director and the fine arts coordinator for the Board of Education. She retired last year. She also served as president and vice president of the Connecticut Association for Adult and Continuing Education, or CAACE. Rossi will present the Coppolas with a citation recognizing their civic-minded contributions and good works. Francine Coppola, born in New Haven and raised in Hamden, is the daughter of an immigrant father and the granddaughter of immigrant paternal grandparents from the province of Caserta, Italy. The couple will receive an Italian flag from Paul Frosolone, president of the Italian-American Civic Association, and Josephine Matera, former president of the Italian-American Ladies Auxiliary, as well as a jacket embroidered with their new title, Italian-American of the Year, from Rossi. The cultural event will include remarks from mayoral Executive Assistant Lou Esposito, the master of ceremonies. Before an Italian blessing, West Haven High School sophomore Nora E. Mullins will sing The Star-Spangled Banner, followed by a rendition of the Italian national anthem by Liz Levy and a greeting from Rossi. NEW HAVEN Research has shown that kindergarten students of a lower socioeconomic status underperform compared to their peers, and a Branford nonprofit is looking to even the playing field. Beginning next month, the organization Read to Grow will begin implementing an early literacy program called Early Steps to School Success, a program developed by another Connecticut-based organization, Save the Children, for children up to the age of 5. There are some students who may walk through kindergarten doors and may not be able to recognize 10 letters of the alphabet, said Kyn Tolson, executive director of Read to Grow. Thats enormous; it doesnt sound like that much, but its a simple reflection of cognitive abilities to understand language and use language. According to one report from the Economic Policy Institute from 2015, there are statistically significant differences in the cognitive development of children entering kindergarten in the top fifth of socioeconomic status distribution and those in the bottom fifth. New Haven will be the site of the first urban Early Steps program, which thus far has been implemented in mostly rural communities, and the first in Connecticut, according to Tolson. Weve always had really strong ties to New Haven, because thats the first location we started out with back in the year 2000, and we work with a lot of other nonprofits in New Haven and theres need in New Haven, Tolson said. She said the programs approach is three-pronged: having case workers enter homes to support families to create a language-rich home where the parents understand theyre their childs first teachers, to connect families with young children to their local schools and to involve community leaders to emphasize the importance of preliteracy education. This program looks at families that have a lot of at-risk factors like poverty it might be a parent or parents who didnt graduate from high school, it might be a single parent or a teenage parent or it might be a parent where English is not the spoken language in the home, and that by itself is not a disadvantage but when you suddenly push a child into kindergarten who hasnt really been around English that much, you may have a pretty significant disadvantage there, Tolson said. She said in year one, the program will start in three city schools, yet to be determined. Each school will have one worker who visits families who have opted into the program after being identified for support by community partners. Tolson said the hope is that families identified for the program will live in the area of the schools where caseworkers are assigned. More News Guilford High grad starts charity to donate children's books to hospitals Establishing these relationships between schools and families early leads to a smoother and more successful transition to kindergarten and beyond, for both children and parents, Judith Jerald, Save the Childrens senior adviser for early childhood education, said in a statement. In the programs second year, Tolson said Read to Learn expects to have staff based in four schools, and by the third year for staff to be in six schools. Superintendent of Schools Carol Birks said she would be at the events announcement at The New Haven Lawn Club on Tuesday to learn more. Early Steps to School Success in New Haven will be Read to Grows third program after its programs Books for Babies and Books for Kids. brian.zahn@hearstmediact.com MONROE Two men face several charges after police identified them as suspects in a burglary on Moose Hill Road earlier this year. Joshua Rickards, 27, of Villas, N.J., and Dennis Beardsley, 38, of Bridgeport, were identified as the suspects after an investigation, police Lt. Stephen Corrone said Wednesday. They each face charges of second-degree burglary, second-degree criminal trespass, fifth-degree larceny, conspiracy to commit second-degree burglary, conspiracy to commit second-degree criminal trespass and conspiracy to commit fifth-degree larcney. On June 4, Monroe police got a call from a Moose Hill Road resident that said their home was burglized by two men, driving an older model sedan with a black hood. The victim stated they were in their home, when they heard a noise in a portion of the residence that was under construction, Corrone said, adding that the victim saw two men leave the home and flee in a car. Police said when the victim checked the area of the home that was under construction, they found $500 of construction equipment missing. An investigation led police to Rickards and Beardsley as suspects and detectives filed for arrest warrants for the two men. Police arrested Beardsley on Aug. 21 at Bridgeport Superior Court. He was in Department of Correction custody on unrelated charges, police said. He is expected in court at 10 a.m. on Oct. 25. Court records show his bail was set at $30,000, but he was not released from custody. Rickards was arrested Tuesday at Bridgeport Superior Court. Police said he was also in custody of the Department of Correction on unrelated charged. He is expected in court at 10 a.m. on Nov. 1 to enter pleas for his charges, court records show. His bail was set at $75,000, but he was not released from custody. A former chapter president of the Pagans Motorcycle Club was found guilty Tuesday of plotting a woman's murder and attempting to have her husband killed in jail to cover up a drug ring the woman was threatening to expose. A jury found Ferdinand Augello guilty in Superior Court in Mays Landing, after a trial that lasted just more than two weeks, Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon Tyner announced. The attorneys in the case had made closing statements Tuesday morning. Freddy Augello has some final words as he leaves courtroom... https://t.co/GxkwAqAg82 pic.twitter.com/45rIUO4GPw Lynda Cohen (@LyndaCohen) October 2, 2018 After hearing the verdict, Augello faced the media sitting on the opposite side of the courtroom. He denied his role in the crimes and said "I'll be back." One of his attorneys, Mary Linehan, later told Breaking AC that they would appeal the decision. Assistant Prosecutor Seth Levy sought to cast Augello, a 62-year-old Upper Township resident also known as "Miserable," as the mastermind of an Oxycontin pill ring that relied on James Kauffman, an endocrinologist who practiced in Linwood, to supply prescriptions. At trial, Levy called several witnesses -- many of them former Pagans -- who testified that Augello directed them to make "appointments" with Kauffman where the doctor would write a prescription for the painkiller. The people sent to Kauffman's office would later use the drug, sell it on the streets (if they paid Augello $1,000) or give some of the pills to Augello. Andrew Glick, a former Pagan nicknamed "Chef," said on the first day of trial that he met Kauffman at the Linwood office on a Saturday morning, when it was not normally open. Kauffman supplied Glick with the maximum Oxycontin prescription in exchange for a $100 bill, which the doctor slipped into his pocket. Kim Pack, daughter of April Kauffman, reacts to the guilty verdict rendered Tuesday. (Craig Matthews / Press of Atlantic City via pool) Glick went back several times afterward to get pills to sell or give to Augello, he said. He and others testified in exchange for immunity or lessened charges. The arrangement held up for a few years before Kauffman started asking around about having his wife, April Kauffman, killed. The host on WOND, an AM talk-radio station, had threatened to tell someone that her husband wasn't a Vietnam veteran, that he was involved in the pill ring. "She was going to divorce him. She was cheating on him. He wasn't going to give her half his wealth, which was almost $5 million," Glick said. For months, Levy argued, Augello asked around about arranging a hit on the doctor's wife. Glick, acting as a cooperating witness with the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office, even recorded a Pagan talking about the offer that had been made to him. One of Ferdinand Augello's attorneys, Mary Linehan, looks on as closing arguments begin, Oct. 2, 2018. (Craig Matthews / Press of Atlantic City via pool.) Ultimately, Francis Mulholland was driven to the Kauffman home on Woodstock Drive in Linwood early on May 10, 2012. The doors were open and someone gave him a gun, with which he shot April Kauffman twice in her bedroom. Mulholland later died of a drug overdose in 2013 at 46. He had previously stated that he was paid about $20,000 for his role in the killing, though it may have been more, the county prosecutor's office said. The pill ring continued for five years after April Kauffman's death. James Kauffman was later arrested after a standoff with police serving a warrant. Augello started talking about having Kauffman killed in jail, becoming suspicious of him after seeing a letter from Kauffman's attorney urging the investigation of Augello and Mulholland. Kauffman was later transferred to the Hudson County Jail after authorities became aware of threats on his life; he later killed himself in his cell when his cellmate was in court for the day. Linehan, who defended Augello with Omar Aguilar, had called it a "too-big-to-fail" prosecution, critiquing the money spent on travel and lodging for witnesses including Glick. She later called for a mistrial on the ninth day of trial, saying documents found in a former Pagan's home contained her name and created a conflict. Judge Bernard DeLury later denied her request. "While they might say justice was not swift in this matter, a jury determined that it was fair," Tyner said in a statement. "It is my hope that April's family will now be able to find some measure of peace, knowing that those responsible for their loved one's death have all been punished in one form or another." FERDINAND AUGELLO GUILTY OF MURDER OF APRIL KAUFFMAN & ON ALL OTHER COUNTS; Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon G. Tyner and Chief Assistant Prosecutor Seth Levy discuss guilty verdict Posted by Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 In a recorded interview after the verdict, Levy said there wasn't one specific bit of evidence that led to conviction. "When you look at the volume of it, when you look at everything put together, it was kind of overwhelming that he did these bad things," he said. Augello was also guilty on counts of racketeering, leading a drug trafficking network, and distributing and conspiracy to distribute controlled dangerous substances. Sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 5. Joe Brandt can be reached at jbrandt@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JBrandt_NJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips A North Jersey police chief captured in a recording saying he wanted to kill the borough council president has been suspended from duty, the mayor confirmed Tuesday. In the recording, which was played at a council meeting, Englewood Cliffs Police Chief Michael Cioffi mused about harming Council President Carrol McMorrow. "I'd like to kill her but I can't," the chief said in the audio recording. "She is one hell of a b----, let me tell ya," Cioffi said, according to the recording. Englewood Cliffs Mayor Mario M. Kranjac said he signed an order Sept. 27 that placed the chief on leave, pending the resolution of administrative charges. "After a few days of trying to serve the order on the chief, it was served yesterday," Kranjac said in an email. "The chief refused compliance with the order and I left it to the officer in charge, borough administrator and borough counsel to enforce the order." Meanwhile, Democrats on the council countered that Kranjac, a Republican, lacked the authority to suspend the police chief, according to NorthJersey.com. James Patuto, a Hackensack-based attorney who represents the chief, previously said Cioffi made the recordings himself to protect against allegations from the mayor. Patuto described the chief's remarks as a joke that came as the police force struggles with low morale. The top cop, mayor and council president have repeatedly clashed. "The chief has been harassed for the last two years by the mayor and council president," Patuto told NJ Advance Media. "There was some joking going on between a lot of people in city hall just to break the tension." Patuto previously said the mayor lobbed various allegations against his client, and noted Cioffi offered the recordings up in federal court. Patuto could not be immediately reached late Tuesday to comment on the suspension. Kranjac said he was trying to make public other recordings, which he claims capture the chief and unnamed officers making various other inappropriate comments. "Such conduct is abhorrent to our social norms and violated their oaths of office," the mayor said. "There is no place for such hatred in Englewood Cliffs." The recordings emerged as part of the discovery process in a lawsuit Cioffi filed against the borough, but were played after first being shared online by WNYC reporter Matt Katz. "I'd like to kill her, but I can't do that. I look at the 'Shawshank Redemption' and say, 'Hmmm.'" - Englewood Cliffs Police Chief Michael Cioffi on Englewood Cliffs Council President Carrol McMorrow. 2/7 Matt Katz (@mattkatz00) September 28, 2018 Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahyc. Find NJ.com on Facebook. A judge in Burlington County upheld a former police officer's firing on charges that he lied to his department about a misuse of sick time. Michael Musser, a former Eastampton Township patrolman, was fired from the department on Oct. 23, 2017, court records show. The sick time at issue was used August 8, 2016, when Musser and his girlfriend were booked for a 7:05 a.m. flight from Philadelphia to Orlando. Musser was scheduled to work a night shift in Eastampton that ended at 7 a.m. The department's internal affairs investigators said Musser called out sick to make the flight, and failed to notify them that he wasn't at home on the day he was out sick. For those offenses, they sought a three-day suspension and a two-day suspension, respectively. At an administrative hearing, Musser's girlfriend testified that she booked them for a 4 p.m. flight (after the night shift would have ended) but deleted the confirmation emails. Later, she said, Musser's email account was hacked and they deleted the account on the advice of a Best Buy employee. They had no record of taking the computer to the store. A Southwest Airlines employee testified at the hearing that there was no 4 p.m. flight from Philly to Orlando - catching them in the lie. The hearing officer sided with the department in ruling that Musser should be terminated for lying. He also noted that "there appears to be a pattern of sick time use/before after the use of vacation time." Burlington County Judge Susan Claypoole, in a late August ruling, affirmed that decision in a Musser appeal of his termination. Being fired for lying, she wrote, was an acceptable punishment because "truthfulness goes to the heart of the duties of a police officer." Her decision and other documents were first posted on a blog run by John Paff, a New Jersey open records advocate. Joe Brandt can be reached at jbrandt@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JBrandt_NJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips The driver of a stolen car that slammed into the back of a tractor-trailer, killing a high school sophomore, pleaded guilty Tuesday to causing the teen's death. In an agreement with prosecutors, Isaiah Buchanan pleaded guilty to aggravated manslaughter in return for a 14-year state prison term, according to Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina. Buchanan was behind the wheel of a stolen BMW when his car crashed into the back of a truck near Route 130 and Riverton Road in Cinnaminson Nov. 15, 2017. His passenger, 15-year-old Kassidy Bush, died in the wreck. "Prior to the collision, officers from the Cinnaminson Township Police Department had attempted to execute a traffic stop on the vehicle, but Buchanan accelerated instead of pulling over," Coffina said in a statement. Authorities said a blood test on Buchanan, of Cinnaminson, found signs he had used cocaine, marijuana and Xanax prior to the collision. Prosecutors successfully argued for Buchanan, then a juvenile, to be tried in adult court. Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahyc. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Q. My property taxes are more than $10,000. I've been reading about the changes in tax law and ways to circumvent the loss of the deduction federally. I also learned New Jersey already has a $10,000 limit, but the governor is trying to get around it by creating a charity we can send our taxes to so we can get a deduction. Can you explain? -- Taxed out A. You mention several issues. The first is the new $10,000 limitation on deducting state and local taxes, also called SALT, on your federal income tax return. Second is New Jersey's longstanding $10,000 cap on deducting real estate taxes on your primary residence. That was recently changed to $15,000.*** Then there's the charity idea. Let's go deeper. Last year, Congress passed and the President signed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, said Bernie Kiely, a certified financial planner and certified public accountant with Kiely Capital Management in Morristown. "This act eliminated personal exemptions, expanded the standard deduction, widened tax brackets, overhauled the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) and introduced a new 20 percent deduction for self-employed persons," Kiely said. "The press has more or less ignored these changes and focused instead on the new $10,000 limitation on the SALT deduction." He said prior to 2018 you could deduct 100 percent of your real estate tax on one or more homes plus 100 percent of your New Jersey state income tax. The SALT limitation caps that deduction to a maximum of $10,000. If you live in a high-taxed state like New Jersey, the SALT limitation might have an effect on how much you pay in federal taxes compared to what you paid in prior years. The extent of the change's impact will depend on your personal situation. For Kiely, the change will be for the better. He said he pays property taxes of more than $10,000, and he was also hit my AMT, which limits certain kinds of deductions. In Kiely's case, he said, AMT disallowed all or part of his and his wife's personal exemption, their real estate tax and their New Jersey income tax. "For all practical purposes I wasn't able to deduct those items at all. So with the enlarged standard deduction and revamping of the AMT, I am actually going to pay less tax then in prior years," Kiely said. Now for 2018, in New Jersey, you can now deduct $15,000 of property taxes. Kiely said Gov. Murphy has proposed a workaround on the federal $10,000 SALT limitation, proposing that municipalities create charitable organizations that will pay for some of the municipal services. "His proposal will allow you a 90 percent credit against your property tax for each dollar you contribute to the new charity," Kiely said. "Unfortunately, this won't pass IRS muster." That's because IRS Publication 526 "Charitable Contributions" states: "A charitable contribution is a donation or gift to, or for the use of, a qualified organization. It is voluntary and is made without getting or expecting to get, anything of equal value." "So if you contribute $5,000 to the municipal charity and receive a 90 percent credit on your property tax, you would have a $500 charitable deduction, not $5,000," Kiely said. New Jersey has always had a $10,000 cap on deducting real estate taxes from your primary residence on the New Jersey income tax return, Kiely said. "Ever since the SALT cap hit the press there have been a few letters to the editor pointing out the fact that New Jersey politicians who are complain about the new SALT limitations are hypocrites because New Jersey limited real estate tax deductions to $10,000," he said. *** The original version of this story did not reflect the new $15,000 limit on property tax deductions in New Jersey. Email your questions to Ask@NJMoneyHelp.com. Karin Price Mueller writes the Bamboozled column for NJ Advance Media and is the founder of NJMoneyHelp.com. Follow NJMoneyHelp on Twitter @NJMoneyHelp. Find NJMoneyHelp on Facebook. Sign up for NJMoneyHelp.com's weekly e-newsletter. Waiting for a letter that never arrived? It might have ended up dumped by a U.S. Postal Service worker along a South Jersey street. A Facebook photo shared more than 3,000 times shows a dozen mail bins stuffed with items discarded in the 3900 block of River Road in Pennsauken. The mail, discovered Sunday, was dated Aug. 8 and out for delivery from the Roxborough Station Post Office in Philadelphia, according to Special Agent Scott Balfour, with the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, which investigates misconduct in the agency. Agents tracked down the employee who threw out the mail, but learned the person resigned from the postal service Sept. 8, according to Balfour. "We do not anticipate any further action against this individual," Balfour said Wednesday. "The Roxborough Station Post Office is going to deliver the mail." Authorities did not identify the worker or offer a possible motive for the bizarre incident. If your looking for your mail it maybe on river road by 36st station...share this post ppl information is out on the street Posted by Kewnoneal Bennett on Sunday, September 30, 2018 The photo, shared by Facebook user Positive Energy Bennett, had more than 200 comments. Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahyc. Find NJ.com on Facebook. UPDATE: Cherry Hill police said Williams was arrested Thursday morning. Police say they have identified the knife-wielding man who robbed two women of cash as they left banks in Cherry Hill Tuesday. Township police didn't mention a motive, but one of his tattoos could be a hint: He has 'Money On My Mind' tattooed on his left forearm, police said. Brandon Williams, 36, of Cooper Landing Road in Cherry Hill is now facing charges including robbery, theft and weapons charges. A warrant has issued for his arrest, but he remained at large Wednesday afternoon, police said. The robberies occurred within 40 minutes of one another on Tuesday afternoon, police said. In both cases, Williams was seen hanging out outside the banks, before he approached each woman as she walked out alone, threatened each with a knife and stole their cash, police said. The first incident occurred at 1:38 p.m. at the Bank of America at 22 West Route 70 and the second was at 2:20 p.m. at the TD Bank at 357 North Kings Highway, police said. He fled both incidents in a white Kia Optima. Police are asking people to be on the lookout for Williams, but not to approach him because he is considered armed and dangerous. They described him as 5 feet, 11 inches tall and weighing approximately 180 pounds. In addition to his "Money On My Mind" tattoo, he has the name "MYER" tattooed on the left side of his neck. He may be driving the White Kia Optima with New Jersey plates reading E63KAT. Anyone who has seen Williams or has information about his whereabouts is asked to contact Cherry Hill Police headquarters at 856-488-7828 or Detective Rich Nelms at 856-432-8827. Anonymous tips can also be sent to tips@cherryhillpolice.com. Rebecca Everett may be reached at reverett@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @rebeccajeverett. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips The most controversial standardized test in New Jersey history is now becoming the most difficult one to kill. Gov. Phil Murphy's proposal to eliminate four of the six PARCC exams for high school students never made it to a vote before the state Board of Education on Wednesday. Instead, the board revised Murphy's plan and granted preliminary approval to end just one exam, the 11th grade English test, although many students will now take two fewer tests. The decision punctuates months of heated debate over PARCC's short-term future, which included a last-minute push by Democratic state lawmakers to scale back the Democratic governor's proposal. It became apparent during last month's meeting that the 13-member Education Board was split and an overhaul once thought be a forgone conclusion was in jeopardy. "There is no doubt in my mind that not everybody is totally happy with everything we have before us today," board member Ronald Butcher said. "It does represent comprise, and I think it represents consensus on how can move forward." The amended proposal passed with only two votes against it and was praised by education groups that had made passionate arguments both for and against reducing the number of exams. "We think that this is an important step forward,' said Steve Baker, spokesman for the New Jersey Education Association, which supported ending the four exams. "It really prioritized the needs of students and the well-being of students." The new plan requires final approval from the board in the coming months. Once it's official, it will spare the ninth grade English exam and the Algebra II and Geometry exams from elimination. Opponents of ending those tests had worried the state would be dumbing down its testing requirements and missing an opportunity to measure student learning. But state officials argued that students who couldn't pass their state exams in eighth grade have been mired in a cycle of failure that only hurt them during high school. Under the new plan, all students will be given the 9th and 10th grade English exams. The state will also give students a standardized math test in both ninth and 10th grade -- either the Algebra 1, Algebra II or Geometry text, depending on which course a student is taking that year. Though none of three math tests for high school students are completely going away, students who start Algebra 1 in ninth grade or later would take one fewer math exam than before. The amendments reflect the state Education Department's willingness to listen to concerns and find the best solution for students, teachers and parents, state Education Commissioner Lamont Repollet said. "This wasn't an us vs. them," Repollet said of the process. Notably, the board accepted Murphy's proposal to extend the graduation requirements for the Class of 2019 to subsequent classes. Without Murphy's change, students would have been required to pass the Algebra I and 10th-grade English exams, two tests with low pass rates. Instead, they can use passing scores on PARCC exams or scores from alternative tests like the SAT or ACT to meet their graduation requirement. The revised requirements will remain in effect until the Class of 2025 graduates, board president Areclio Aponte said. "To say that we are ever going to get everyone 100 percent happy is difficult to say," Aponte said, "but I think ultimately this is going to work well for the districts, work well for students, work well for parents." The vote should produce the first tangible sign of Murphy fulfilling his signature education campaign promise -- ridding New Jersey schools of PARCC. The governor initially pledged to "scrap PARCC Day 1," only to later acknowledge the process was more difficult than he realized. The state has since said students will likely take PARCC for two more school years, although the tests will be rebranded under a different name. Murphy then announced in July he intended to eliminate four of the six exams for high school students, and it seemed unlikely at the time that the state board would push back. But heightened skepticism from lawmakers, including state Sen. Teresa Ruiz, D-Essex, the chair of the state Senate Education Committee, led the state board to delay its scheduled vote in September. Asked if the board would have approved Murphy's changes Wednesday without the amendments, Aponte wouldn't speculate. "Until a vote is actually required, it's hard to say where everyone is going to land." Aponte said. Adam Clark may be reached at adam_clark@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on twitter at @realAdamClark. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Jennifer Skomial she spends her days teaching high school students how to become teachers. Now, she's New Jersey's state Teacher of the Year. Skomial, a career and technical education teacher at Morris County School of Technology was announced as the winner Wednesday. She receives a six-month paid sabbatical to serve as a liaison between the teaching community and the state Department of Education. "Jennifer truly exemplifies what it means to be a teacher in New Jersey," Gov. Phil Murphy said. Skomial attended Morris County School of Technology and participated in the same program she now oversees. She helps a group of aspiring teachers develop lesson as they run a daily preschool program at the school. "I really hope my students remember how to be kind, caring individuals," Skomial said. "I hope they go out into the real world and make a real difference." Skomial was selected from 21 county Teacher of the Year winners. The award, sponsored by the New Jersey Education Association and Education Testing Services, comes with a new car, a clothing allowance and other perks. The winner, along with other states' Teacher of the Year winners, goes on a trip to Washington D.C. to meet the president. Last year's winner was Amy Andersen, an American Sign Language Teacher at at Ocean City High School. Adam Clark may be reached at adam_clark@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on twitter at @realAdamClark. Find NJ.com on Facebook. An international traveler with measles may have exposed others at Newark Liberty International Airport to the highly contagious disease last month, officials said Wednesday. The man, whose name was not released, arrived at Terminal B from a flight from Tel Aviv, Israel on Sept. 28, the New Jersey Department of Health said. "The individual was infectious on that day and may have traveled to other areas of the airport," a release from the department stated. The infected man then traveled on to Rockland County, NY, and there were no further exposures in New Jersey, the state said. The department said anyone who was at the airport on Sept. 28 between 5:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m could have been exposed to the disease. Anyone who was infected at the airport could develop symptoms as late as Oct. 19. Symptoms include rash, high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes and it can can cause more serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis, according to the department of health. People can also get sick when they come in contact with mucus or saliva from an infected person and anyone who has not been vaccinated or has not had measles was at risk if they were exposed. "Two doses of measles vaccine are about 97 percent effective in preventing measles," state epidemiologist Dr. Christina Tan said in the release. "We urge everyone to check to make sure they and their family members are up-to-date on measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine and all other age-appropriate immunizations." This is not the first time this year that people at Newark airport may have been exposed to measles as the the department of health sent out a similar warning in May. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @chrisrsheldon Find NJ.com on Facebook. This story was updated Thursday at 10 a.m. to include comment from a Rowan University spokesman. Two days after officers detained two Rowan University students at gunpoint on campus, the Glassboro Police Department issued a statement explaining why it happened and refuting some of the statements by the students and the university. Glassboro police have not responded to several requests for information on the incident. But in a statement posted on their Facebook page Wednesday, along with some body camera footage, they contradict previous information from a Rowan University spokesman. Specifically, that the student's car matched the description from a 911 call about a nearby armed robbery. In fact, there was no robbery, and police said they followed the driver and pulled his vehicle over because a bystander told them he had a gun. No weapon was ever found. The encounter Monday afternoon in the Mimosa Hall parking lot terrified the two African American students, Altaif Hassan, 21, and Giavanna Roberson, 18, who said they were held at gunpoint and handcuffed in police cruisers for 45 minutes. Videos of the incident have been shared widely on social media, prompting some students to worry it might be an example of racial bias in policing. In response, the university is holding a town hall meeting on policing. Oppression is everywhere. Specially right in our own safe spaces. Fun fact: For Blacks in America the idea of a safe space has not and still does not apply to us. Salute to that man @humbledeuce2 for making it through this experience. Rowan University Posted by Quacy Dolphin on Monday, October 1, 2018 Rowan really on some shit pic.twitter.com/oRblQC87WE stefan (@_StefanHenry) October 1, 2018 Glassboro officers were investigating a shoplifting at a store in the Collegetown Shopping Center on North Delsea Drive around 4:30 p.m. when a man came into the store and said he had "just observed a heavy - set black male, with 'puffy hair' pointing a black handgun at a vehicle that was parked in the fire lane" and then get into the vehicle and drive away, police said Wednesday. Police posted body camera footage of only this part of the incident. The department has not responded to a request seeking the full footage. Speaking to a reporter Tuesday, Hassan said he and Roberson left their classes Monday afternoon and drove to pick up his eyeglasses from a downtown store before heading back to the Student Center, where he was pulled over. There are several optical businesses in Collegetown Shopping Center. Hassan did not return a message Wednesday. The statement said police immediately spotted and maintained sight of the vehicle the bystander described -- a black Dodge Charger -- and followed it until it stopped on campus. "During this incident, the on-scene officers utilized their training and followed established protocol to ensure the safety of everyone involved in this incident. At the conclusion of the investigation, no handgun was located within the vehicle and the young male and female occupants were provided with the details of why this action was taken," police said in the statement. In an interview Tuesday, Hassan and Roberson said they were very scared as the first officer pulled his gun immediately, and at least four more officers arrived with guns pointed at them. They were ordered out of the car one at a time, and ordered to walk backwards towards police with their hands up. "I was never so sure I was gonna die," Hassan said. "To not be able to see what's going on. What if I trip? Boom. I'm shot." The pair said that police asked them questions about whether there was a gun in the car, but otherwise didn't tell them why they were being detained. Contrary to the police statement, they said no officers explained why they were stopped, never mentioning a bystander reporting them having a gun. Hassan wondered Tuesday if the stop had anything to do with his race, as he said he is frequently stopped by police in Glassboro. "Officers have an obligation to investigate when this type of information is provided regarding a serious threat of an alleged armed subject in our community for the safety of all involved including the people that are subject of the investigation," police said. Police did not explicitly say that the report of a gun was unfounded, but Rowan University did. "The police determined on location that the students were not involved in the incident that resulted in the vehicle stop," the university said in a Facebook post Wednesday. Joe Cardona, Rowan's Vice President for University Relations said Thursday that the university is standing by Glassboro Police's account of events. He said the message that went out to students Monday was based off initial information that came through university channels. "The challenge is, we're on different timelines, us and the police. It quickly escalates and people want information quickly. But police took their time and did a thorough investigation," he said. Rowan's Facebook post Wednesday said the incident had "sparked a broader conversation about race relations, specifically in the area of law enforcement." The town hall on policing will take place Friday at 11 a.m. in the Student Center ballroom. As many of you no doubt have heard from friends or seen on social media or television, Glassboro police on Monday pulled... Posted by Rowan University on Wednesday, October 3, 2018 Hassan, Roberson and Student Body President Rbrey Singleton said that they want to make sure this doesn't happen to any student in the future. Singleton also expressed concern that a number of students could have been at risk because -- as the videos show -- numerous students were crowding around as the incident transpired. The police statement included a "cautionary recommendations" that people should only watch incidents like this from a safe distance and with "protective cover." Rebecca Everett may be reached at reverett@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @rebeccajeverett. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips UPDATE: Police say they were just doing their job when they pulled over college students at gunpoint (VIDEO) After class Monday, Rowan University senior Altaif Hassan was giving his friend Giavanna Roberson a ride to the student center when he noticed that a police cruiser had pulled in the parking lot behind him, blue lights flashing. He stopped the car and looked in his mirror. "He had his gun aimed at me," Hassan, 21, said Tuesday, recounting the chilling moment from the day before. Sitting in front of the student center with Roberson, he made the shape of a gun with his hands and pointed it, his arms stretched out in front of him. A university spokesman said a 911 caller reporting an armed robbery had described a car similar to Hassan's, which prompted police to stop him and act as though he or Roberson, 18, had a gun.* No weapon was found, but the hour-plus ordeal terrified and humiliated Hassan and Roberson, caused alarm on campus and left some students feeling that it was a race-related overreaction that put lives at risk. Shortly after, the university sent a brief notice to students about what happened, and then videos of the incident on the busy campus were shared widely on social media. Oppression is everywhere. Specially right in our own safe spaces. Fun fact: For Blacks in America the idea of a safe space has not and still does not apply to us. Salute to that man @humbledeuce2 for making it through this experience. Rowan University Posted by Quacy Dolphin on Monday, October 1, 2018 Rowan really on some shit pic.twitter.com/oRblQC87WE stefan (@_StefanHenry) October 1, 2018 In an interview Tuesday, Hassan, a biology major, and Roberson, 18, a freshman studying nursing, recounted how they immediately held their hands out the windows of the car as police shouted instructions and more arrived and pulled their guns, including one that appeared to be an assault rifle. Hassan, fearing that police would see his phone in his lap and think it was a gun, threw it on the floor of the car. They ordered Hassan out of the car first and had him put his hands up and walk backwards towards them. "I was never so sure I was gonna die," he said. His mind was in overdrive, worrying that he might twitch and they would feel threatened and shoot him. "To not be able to see what's going on," he said. "What if I trip? Boom. I'm shot." Meanwhile, inside the car, Roberson was still holding her hands out the window -- and praying. "I was praying that 'Taif didn't trip or anything," she said. She said she was more worried about him than for herself, thinking that police would feel more threatened by a male. The pair said they could not figure out why they were being treated that way, and none of the many officers gave them any clues. Asked if he assumed it was a case of mistaken identity, Hassan said, "I would think that, but I've been getting pulled over since I was a freshman." The Trenton-native said that after he started at Rowan, both Rowan and Glassboro police have been pulling him over dozens of times each year. They always have a minor excuse for stopping him, he said, and sometimes they want to search the car, which he always allows. "Maybe it's the way I look. Maybe it's my race. I've never seen them do that to white people," he said. On Monday, officers asked each of them if there was a gun in the car, but mostly did not speak to Hassan, he said. Roberson eventually overheard an officer say why they stopped the car. Hassan said he was sitting in a cruiser for nearly 45 minutes before he overheard a police scanner saying that someone with a gun was reportedly driving a car like his. When he was finally uncuffed and released, no one apologized or explained anything, he said. Glassboro police did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday. Joe Cardona, Rowan's vice president for University Relations, said police "followed protocol" given that they believed the car was the one from the armed robbery and that its occupants might be armed. Cardona acknowledged that the experience was awful for the students and said the university had offered counseling. "We're moving forward from here. There's probably going to be some open meetings about it," he said. On campus Tuesday afternoon, students who talked with a reporter said they had seen the videos and gotten the university alert about the incident. Several said they felt that police should have done more to confirm they had the right car, and that the number of guns being pointed was an overreaction. Two other students said that they understood it was a scary situation, but they felt that the police were taking appropriate precautions given that they believed they might be facing someone with a gun. Roberson called the experience "traumatizing" and said its made her feel unsafe on campus. "My little sisters always come here, and they could have easily been in the car with us," she said. Hassan held out his hands, showing fingernails bitten down to the quick, and said he was biting them all night because he was a nervous wreck after the incident Monday. "I'm trying to figure out what it is going to take for this to never happen again," he said. "No one should be in that position." He reached out to Student Body President Rbrey Singleton, who helped arrange a meeting Tuesday with the dean of students and the head of Rowan University Public Safety. Roberson and Hassan said it felt good to be listened to, but they're not sure much will change. "It's not just us, a lot of other students have experienced the same with cops," Hassan said, referring to run-ins with police they felt were motivated partly by racial bias. "I hope they do protest and all the people who've had these experiences come forward." At the Social Justice Office Tuesday afternoon, student Imani Saunders recounted how videos of the incident spread on Instagram, with many students reacting with disbelief and calling for action. Like Hassan, she said there is a feeling that students of color are treated differently by local police, including increased police presence at their social events. "As student body president I am deeply concerned about how the situation was handled," Singleton said Tuesday. "No Rowan student should come to campus worried about looking down the barrel of a long gun." His second concern, he said, was that more than just the two students were at risk, given how crowded the area was with students while guns were being pointed. He said he has been hearing complaints from students about their dealings with Glassboro police prior to this, and the Student Government Association was planning to reach out to the borough about "strengthening relationships." "This event is prompting us to move a lot faster on that front," he said He said the Student Government Association and the Social Justice Office are tentatively planning a town hall meeting Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saunders said other student activists are planning a protest, which may take place Wednesday or Thursday. *Police have said this information from Rowan University was incorrect, and there was no 911 call or armed robbery. Rebecca Everett may be reached at reverett@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @rebeccajeverett. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips JERSEY CITY The twisting, convoluted story of the potential relocation of the Katyn monument is about to get more confusing, thanks to a lawsuit filed Wednesday in Hudson County Superior Court. A committee that formed to keep the Katyn statue at Exchange Place is suing the city, its council and City Clerk Robert Byrne, saying they deprived the public of a required hearing on the Katyn matter and asking a judge to force the nine-member council to take another vote on the statue relocation plan. The matter of the Katyn statue a memorial to the 1940 massacre of over 20,000 Polish people by the Soviet Union involves dry local government practices, council rules and a state law on ordinance repeal that even some insiders find confusing. To recap: The City Council voted 6-3 at its June 13 meeting to approve Mayor Steve Fulop's plan to move the statue from Exchange Place to York Street. All of Fulop's allies voted in favor. A committee of voters, using a rarely-utilized state law, gathered enough signatures to force the council to reconsider the June 13 measure. If the council did not reverse that measure, voters would decide in a special election whether the ordinance should be rescinded. At the council's Sept. 12 meeting, the council was faced with a vote to advance an ordinance that would have repealed the June 13 measure. The council voted 3-0-5 on the repeal ordinance. That is three yes votes, zero no votes and five abstentions. All the abstentions came from Fulop's allies. Byrne ruled that the measure failed because it did not receive five affirmative votes. The measure's failure meant it would not get the necessary second vote at a subsequent meeting. It also meant there would be no public hearing on the matter. Public hearings on ordinances on second reading include no time limit on public speakers, which led to a six-hour hearing on the Katyn statue at the council's June 13 meeting. After the Sept. 12 meeting, it appeared, the council had spoken and the measure would go before voters. But, wait, the committee says in its new lawsuit. The Sept. 12 measure was not defeated because the council's rules say abstentions are not counted as no votes, meaning the measure advanced by a 3-0 vote and should go before the council for a second reading, according to the lawsuit. "Per City Council rules, a 'majority of the full membership of the Council shall constitute a quorum,'" the lawsuit says. "Thus, with respect to the nine-member City Council, a quorum is five, and, in turn, a majority of a quorum is three. Therefore, three votes in favor of the repeal ordinance's introduction is sufficient to move it to a second reading and public hearing." State law, meanwhile, requires five affirmative votes to adopt an ordinance, not to introduce one, the lawsuit says. The special election regarding the Katyn referendum has not been scheduled yet. The deadline to get the question on the November general election ballot has passed, so for now the election would be on some day between Nov. 21 and Dec. 11. "We simply want the ordinances to be posted for second reading so there can be a public hearing and the members of the public can be heard," said Kristen Zadroga-Hart, a member of the committee. "If the City Council members choose to shirk their responsibility as elected officials and abstain a second time, so be it." A hearing on the newest lawsuit was set for Oct. 19. The city agreed to hold off on printing special election ballots until then, according to the committee's attorney, Bill Matsikoudis. Matsikoudis unsuccessfully challenged Fulop in last year's mayoral race. "This committee is interested in alleviating taxpayers from the burden of a costly special election," Hart said. "The public shouldn't have to pay as a result of poltroonery." A request for comment from city spokeswoman Kim Wallace-Scalcione was returned. "After consulting with corporation counsel, I can say that the city stands by its determination," Council President Rolando Lavarro said. Terrence T. McDonald may be reached at tmcdonald@jjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @terrencemcd. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook. JERSEY CITY Earl Morgan, the late Jersey Journal columnist who reported on Jersey City government and politics for decades, became an indelible part of the city on Wednesday when the Greenville library branch was renamed in his honor. The unveiling of the library's new name came after a 90-minute ceremony that saw Morgan's family, friends and former colleagues, plus a target or two of Morgan's pen, offer their remembrances and extol the idea of naming the Kennedy Boulevard library after a man who dedicated much of his life to being a wordsmith. "This honor is so fitting for Earl, who had so many homes. Home with his family, of course, but also home at The Jersey Journal, home on the fencing court, home in the music studio and home among the stacks at the local library," said Margaret Schmidt, editor of The Jersey Journal. Morgan died on June 5 at the age of 75. The City Council approved the library name change in August. The Earl A. Morgan branch of the city's library system is home to the Afro-American Historical Society Museum, one of the reasons why it was chosen to honor Morgan, the longtime leading chronicler of Jersey City's African-American community. "Children are going to come into the building. They're not going to know Earl Morgan and they're going to ask, who is he? What did he do? Why is it named after him?" said the museum's director, Neal E. Brunson. "And we're going to be able to explain to generation after generation after generation who he was." Wednesday's ceremony included appearances by a number of the city's elected officials, some of whom Morgan roasted in person and in his column. They reminisced fondly about being the target of Morgan's stories. Sondra Reilly, the former chair of the library's board, said if she saw Morgan covering a board meeting, it would "inspire a little bit of fear in my bones." "Earl was not one to spare his mouth or spare his pen," Councilman Jermaine Robinson said. Morgan's son, Kyle, said his father would not have wanted a building named after him because he worked "for the work's sake," not for accolades or pats on the back. Kyle Morgan recounted that, growing up, people always called him Earl Jr. He said he "chafed against" being compared to his dad then, but not anymore. "Guess what, Pop, right now I'd be just fine with being Earl Jr. Because it is a name that will now never be forgotten," he said. Terrence T. McDonald may be reached at tmcdonald@jjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @terrencemcd. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook. The North Jersey Indie Rock Festival moves to White Eagle Hall in Jersey City for its third iteration on Saturday, Oct. 6, with 17 bands representing a coalition of the state's record labels, music websites and radio stations. The festival this year encompasses bands from all over the state, with musicians who range from bright-faced twentysomethings to veterans whose careers date back to the '80s. The lineup includes familiar names like Asbury Park's Dentist, Jersey City's Black Wail, and Glenn Morrow's Cry for Help from Hoboken, while the music ranges from New Milford garage-rocker Tony Saxon to ambient instrumentals from the Royal Arctic Institute, spazzy surf rock from Yawn Mower, blues-rock from the Components, and self-described "stadium rock" from New Brunswick's Professor Caveman. The festival is scheduled to run from 4 to 11 p.m. Representatives from New Jersey's music media, including You Don't Know Jersey, Speak Into My Good Eye, Pop Break, Jersey Indie, and WFDU-FM will introduce some of the acts and share their comments on the event and New Jersey's burgeoning music scene. The festival started two years ago when two labels, Mint 400 and Sniffling Indie Kids Records, decided to mount an ambitious showcase for their acts at Jersey City's Cathedral Hall, a deconsecrated Catholic church that posed some logistical problems, including stages on two different floors. "I'm excited about not having to run up and down a flight of stairs for a 14 hours; I'm excited for air conditioning; I'm excited to not have to run the sound ourselves," Frank DeFranco of Sniffling Indie Kids Records said. "I'm excited to not play and just enjoy a lot of great bands this year. I'm selfishly most excited to hear the bands on our label (LKFFCT, Professor Caveman, Smock, The Vaughns, Secretary Legs) in White Eagle Hall." Everyone involved with the event expressed delight with the move. "Most of the bands on our label play a lot of DIY venues and house shows and it's always nice to hear them with great sound," DeFranco said. "At this event, they're going to get that. It's also been a while since I caught Glazer, and Phil has been building some insane gear lately (recently bought a fuzz pedal he built out of an alarm clock radio) that I can't wait to hear live. I'm also stoked to see Yawn Mower because I've only caught them once at Stosh's and it'll be sick to see them in a place like WEH." Organizer Neil Sabatino of Mint 400 Records agreed. "I think the fact that we're going to keep everyone in one room this year instead of having people run up and down stairs will make it feel a little fuller than it did at a gigantic space like Cathedral Hall, with the crowd split between two stages," he said. At the first two festivals, craft vendors had booths in Cathedral Hall's basement offering a variety of wares and band merchandise. "We got rid of the vendors because there were so many other things going on at this time of year that we just didn't have a lot of interest, but I think having a professional bar and kitchen involved at White Eagle Hall will mean a little less pressure on us,'' Sabatino said. "Not that the church wasn't great for what we needed those first two years." This year, more labels will be involved, too. "We were working on some projects with Rhyme & Reason Records so it made sense to invite them, and Sniffling Indie Kids has been working with State Champion Records, so we brought them in, and we brought Little Dickman Records back from last year," Sabatino said. "I think overall our goal is to include more and more labels eventually. This year, five felt more than enough because we did want to do it at White Eagle Hall and they weren't going to let us go on for eight or nine hours to do our festival, which is what we had at Cathedral Hall. We had to cut it down to a six-hour thing, so that's what we did. We were able to reach out to more podcasts and writers and blogs this year, and we able to run some contests to give away tickets, which is new. And one of the blogs is doing a non-partisan voter registration thing at the concert, with a booth where people can register to vote." Last year, the festival received some criticism because it was so predominantly male. That's been addressed this year, with more acts that include women. But while greater diversity remains a goal, don't expect an influx of reggae, jazz or hip-hop artists. "It all started out as just a talking piece between Neil and myself and then it became a thing," DeFranco said. "Then it became a bigger thing. It is called the North Jersey Indie Rock Festival so I would imagine we'd probably keep it in the 'Indie Rock' spectrum. I personally kind of like that it is specifically focused on indie rock because it sets a more consistent tone and vibe. Not just for attendees but even for the bands themselves." The benefits, DeFranco said, extend to more than just the audience. "It's a great opportunity for bands to be able to network with other bands that they would logically share bills with," he said. "It's also incentive for people to stay for larger chunks of the day. It's like, here's a bunch of bands that if you like one, odds are you're probably going to like a lot of the others playing. A lot of it also has to do with what bands are even available from the different labels involved with the festival." Organizers are already thinking ahead. "Mybe in the future we could even add a small acoustic stage,'' Sabatino said. "I'd love to have more than five labels if we could ever pull it off." If you go ... The North Jersey Indie Rock Festival will take place at White Eagle Hall, 337 Newark Ave., Jersey City, on Saturday, Oct. 6. Doors open at 4 p.m.; $10. Advance tickets are available at Ticketfly.com. Hunterdon County Prosecutor Anthony P. Kearns, III, Hunterdon County Sheriff Frederick W. Brown, County Clerk Mary Melfi and County Surrogate Susan Hoffman announce their assistance with a food drive sponsored by the New Jersey State Police, Field Operations Section. "October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the New Jersey State Police are conducting a food drive to benefit individuals, and their families, living in shelters that have been affected by domestic violence," Kearns said. "Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an annual campaign that is focused on raising public awareness about domestic violence in an effort to eradicate such violence from our communities. "Donations will be collected from Oct. 1 through Oct. 31 and will be distributed to local domestic violence shelters during the month of November to assist with Thanksgiving efforts. Can goods and non-perishable food items will be collected at the Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office, Second floor, Justice Complex, 65 Park Avenue, or a drop box is available at the County Clerks Office, Hall of Records, 71 Main Street, Flemington." Submitted by the Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office When you think about it, apples carry a lot of freight for a simple, shiny fruit. They speak of temptation (Adam and Eve), health (apple a day keeps the doctor away) and affection (apple of my eye). No one associates such strong sentiments with a banana or a pear. Our affinity for apples is deeply rooted. Fall is definitely in the air when apple trees are bending low with the weight of ripening fruit, but the crisp crunch of a fresh apple is a small pleasure in any season. These are good keepers, too, providing fodder for the apple pies, strudels, fritters and such that figure in holiday feasts and keep us going through the long winter. Originally from Central Asia, apples made their way to Europe thousands of years ago and then traveled to America with the early settlers. We have our own apple-obsessed American icon in the person of Johnny "Appleseed" Chapman (1774-1845), fondly remembered as an itinerant strewer of apple seeds across the newborn nation. Actually, there was nothing random about his travels and his plantings. He established not orchards but apple nurseries, fenced against livestock and entrusted to the care of neighbors between his sporadic visits. Upon his death, he left behind 12,000 acres of apple nurseries in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana, no small estate. Johnny Appleseed preached his own version of the gospel along the way, but before you get wholesome mom-and-apple-pie feelings about his career, consider the primary use of apples in the colonial era: hard cider; yes, liquor. Before there was wheat, barley or hops, there were abundant apple trees, better suited to the climate of early settlements. His apples weren't modern, grafted varieties bred for sweet eating, but bitter, seed-grown, inedible things suitable only for making hooch. Food guru Michael Pollan writes about it in "The Botany of Desire: A Plant's-Eye View of the World." "Really, what Johnny Appleseed was doing and the reason he was welcome in every cabin in Ohio and Indiana was he was bringing the gift of alcohol to the frontier," Pollan writes." He was our American Dionysus." All roads lead to New Jersey, I always say, and so it is with alcoholic apple drinks. The oldest commercial distillery in the country is headquartered here in Colts Neck -- Laird & Company (lairdandcompany.com), producers of applejack, apple brandy and "Jersey Lightning," a clear, 100-proof variation. Dating its history to 1698 and counting both George Washington and Abraham Lincoln among its fans, Laird's is family- owned and run to this day. Lisa Laird Dunn, ninth generation, is one of the current executives, holding the title of vice president and world ambassador. Laird's apple liquors are sold in 13 countries, with Australia the second largest consumer after the United States. Sitting in the 300-year-old farmhouse on the Laird site with the official office dog (Jack, of course), Dunn credits the craft cocktail trend of recent years for bringing fresh attention to small-scale and relatively unfamiliar products. "There's a lot of pride in what we do, but as I get older, I see it as a lot of responsibility, too," says Dunn. "You don't want to be the generation that screws it up." The Laird distillery is in Virginia now, but the barreled product is trucked to Colts Neck and aged on the property, just as in centuries past. "I can't see us ever leaving New Jersey," Dunn says. "Our history is here -- it's home." OF CIDER, MULLED AND NOT Freshly pressed apple juice, commonly referred to as cider, is opaque and not clear like bottled apple juice in supermarkets. The unfiltered stuff, often unpasteurized, includes naturally occurring yeasts that will ferment over time, eventually yielding apple cider vinegar -- so drink it within a few days, unless vinegar is what you're after. A cold glass of earthy cider is just the thing on a warm Indian summer day. But as winter sets in, the hot version with spices, known as mulled cider, is an excellent warmup. Here's how we do it at my house: Pour a gallon or two of cider into a large pot. Add thick slices of orange studded with whole cloves and toss in three or four sticks of cinnamon. If you like it spicier, add a half-teaspoon of nutmeg and/or allspice. Simmer and serve, filling the house with a lovely aroma. Spiking the cider with dark rum, apple brandy or applejack gives it a nice little kick. WHERE TO FIND JERSEY APPLES Apples are more popular than you might think in New Jersey, the third most valuable crop after tomatoes and blueberries. A total of 36 million pounds were grown in 2016, a harvest worth $32.6 million, according to the state Department of Agriculture. The department's Jersey Fresh website has a page devoted to apples (http://jerseyfresh.nj.gov/find/apples.html), with a searchable "where to buy" database that lists (by county) orchards, farm stands and farmers' markets offering the local product. To sort the eating from the baking types, profiles of New Jersey varieties are included. The website also lists apple events, many featured during season-long fall harvest festivals. Want to sit down to an apple pancake breakfast or enter an apple pie contest? Find out how and where. If you're itching to pick your own, head to a separate page (http://jerseyfresh.nj.gov/find/pickyourown.html) that gives you that information by county on which orchards welcome do-it-yourselfers. A shooting outside a Philadelphia shopping center left one man dead and four others wounded Wednesday afternoon. Shots were apparently fired from a moving vehicle shortly before 2:40 p.m. at the corner of Germantown Avenue and Wister Street, near the Freedom Square Shopping Center, according to police. The injured included a 23-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his left hand, a 19-year-old man shot to his right foot, another 19-year-old man wounded on his right hand, a 20-year-old shot in his right arm, and a 20-year-old man shot in the head and later died at an area hospital. The other victims were listed in stable condition, according to preliminary reports released by police. Detectives responded to multiple crime scenes. There were no immediate arrests and no weapons recovered, police said. The shooting occurred in a commercial area of the city's Germantown section. Police tape surrounded several bicycles on the sidewalk outside a parking lot of a Dollar General store. Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney recently announced officials were developing a 100 day plan to combat a surge of violence in the city. 5 men shot from a moving car on Germantown Ave. Police have the parking lot to Dollar General store roped off. No arrests so far. Philly Police Commissioner is on scene. @NBCPhiladelphia https://t.co/45yZoJD4f1 pic.twitter.com/Un3gVpv4Yo Drew Smith (@drewsmithtv) October 3, 2018 Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahyc. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Thomas McDonald was 16 years old in 1971 when a car accident left him a paraplegic. He has remained in a wheelchair ever since, but his disability never stopped him from working. He worked in customer service and sales for a limousine company for 15 years before landing a position with Verizon Communications in 1999. Thomas McDonald displays some of the awards he received during his time working for Verizon. (Submitted photo) Working as a consultant in the sales and retention department in Madison, he excelled with the company, earning accolades from his superiors and even got his name on a Wheaties box for his outstanding sales, customer service and attendance records. After a 14-year career there, Verizon fired him because of his disability, McDonald said, and how he's suing the company in federal court. "When they hired me, they were hiring a person with a disability," he said this week. "Through the years working with Verizon, I won many awards for my sales ability, my customer service ability and my attendance. I was good at what I did." McDonald says this treatment violated the terms of a settlement the company reached a few years earlier regarding its treatment of employees with disabilities. In 2011, Verizon agreed to pay $20 million to settle a class-action lawsuit by the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission alleging that the company violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by denying reasonable accommodations for hundreds of employees with disabilities. The case centered around Verizon's "no fault" attendance plans, under which employees would face discipline and possible termination if they accumulated a certain number of "chargeable absences." The EEOC argued that Verizon failed to make accommodations for employees with disabilities whose absences were the result of those disabilities. Those accommodations can include paid or unpaid leave. Under the settlement, Verizon vowed to adhere to ADA standards, to train its staff and to monitor compliance. While he wasn't involved in that case, McDonald said the company didn't keep its word when it came to how he was treated. In his suit, he claims Verizon violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination. In response to questions about McDonald's lawsuit, a Verizon spokesman provided a statement from the company. "Verizon doesn't provide comment on any individual employee matters. Verizon has a zero tolerance policy against discrimination of any kind," it said. McDonald dealt with several health issues related to his disability during his time with Verizon, he said. He needed surgery for a degenerative skin condition, underwent emergency quadruple heart bypass surgery, had another surgery to install a pacemaker and defibrillator and was hospitalized for sepsis. He needed time off from work as these issues arose and had to alter his work hours under direction from his doctor. His work record remained stellar, McDonald said, as he racked up trophies and more honors for his outstanding efforts in retaining customers. Verizon's New Jersey retention department was recognized as having the top retention department in the country, he said, and he was recognized as the state's top retention service rep two years in a row. When he took doctor-ordered time off to recover from his medical treatments, Verizon sent him to the absenteeism office upon his return and placed him in a punitive program. He had to demonstrate good attendance for the next six months in order to avoid an escalation. Meanwhile, he continued receiving commendations for attendance, McDonald said. After taking a service call from an angry customer in 2011, McDonald suffered heart pains and panic and was taken from work in an ambulance. Since he had used up his sick time, he returned to work the next day, even though he didn't feel well. McDonald said he was again summoned to the absenteeism office, reprimanded "because plaintiff had to use company time to go to the emergency room" and again placed on a punitive program. That reprimand came even though his managers had insisted on a call to 911 when he began feeling unwell, McDonald said. After his doctor told him he had to change his work schedule to reduce stress, Verizon agreed to let McDonald switch to only handling outbound calls to customers. This amounted to a promotion, McDonald said, and he was given the title of assistant manger. He made calls to customers, helping research and resolve problems that were too involved to be handled as a typical incoming call to the customer service unit. McDonald was successful in this new post and, as a result of his work, Verizon ended up creating a department dedicated to these outbound troubleshooting calls, he said. Between 2011 and 2012, McDonald shifted to part-time status based on his doctor's recommendation. In October 2012, McDonald was told all accommodations would have to cease within 180 days or he would be placed on non-paid medical leave. He was also told that his doctor had to provide an order stating that he no longer needed medical accommodations. His doctor couldn't do that. "My doctor looked at it and goes, I can't sign this," McDonald recalled. If the doctor had cleared him, knowing that he still required accommodations for a valid disability, he could be held liable if McDonald suffered a health setback. "I was caught in a Catch-22." He was placed on unpaid leave is March 2013. He couldn't file for unemployment, since he was still technically a Verizon employee. He was fired in October of that year. "To send a person home because they have a disability when they promote hiring the disabled ... they should have handled it a different way," McDonald said. He argued that he wasn't looking for anything unreasonable from his employer, saying, for example, that he was willing to take time off unpaid if he had used up his sick time. McDonald spoke about his worth ethic, recalling cases when he called out because heavy snowfall left him unable to get out of his house. Once his driveway was cleared, though, he headed to work. Same goes for days when he woke up not feeling well. If he improved a few hours later, off to work he went. "I'm one of those crazy people that enjoys getting up every morning and having a purpose," McDonald said. "I enjoyed helping my customers." He feels he was let go as part of an effort by the company to reduce costs. He first tried to filed a complaint through the EEOC, but eventually ended up filing a lawsuit on his own. The case is currently in the discovery stage. McDonald said he regarded his job with Verizon as a career and expected to retire from the company one day. Instead, the 62-year-old, who now lives in Little Egg Harbor Township, is still looking for a new job. "I'm applying everywhere," he said, noting that he's not the type to just sit home. "I just want to do something." Even though he was fired, he doesn't bad-mouth Verizon. "I still have respect for the company," he said. "Their services are still top of them all. I just don't agree with what they did with me." Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattGraySJT. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us: nj.com/tips. A Pennsylvania man admitted he caused the death of an Edison man two years ago when his truck crossed into oncoming traffic while he was under the influence of a drug, authorities said. John T. O'Donnell Sr., 59, of Nazareth, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty Friday to vehicular homicide and assault by auto for the April 2016 crash in Edison that killed Marcus Scroggins, 33, the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office announced. Marcus Scroggins (from GoFundMe) The prosecutor's reached a plea deal with O'Donnell that calls for a five-year prison term, of which he'll have to serve 85 percent before being eligible for parole. O'Donnell admitted he took a pain pill prior to the April 5, 2016 crash on Route 27 in Edison, and it altered his ability to drive, the office said. The office did not say what type of pain pill, but authorities previously said O'Donnell was under the influence of narcotics, and medics treated him at the scene with Narcan - the brand-name drug that reverses the effects of opioids and heroin. O'Donnell was driving a U-Haul rental box truck when he crossed over into oncoming traffic and side-swiped an SUV before slamming into Scroggins' car. The two vehicles skidded 100 feet before stopping, officials have said. The driver of the SUV suffered minor injuries. Scroggins was a Kean University graduate and was working as a supervisor for Sam's Club in Edison when he died, his obituary said. He was described as "always smiling" and a "genuinely happy person." Among his survivors were his wife of seven years, Joan Ann Scroggins. A GoFundMe page raised nearly $17,000 in his memory, and his wife thanked donors on it months later, writing: "Your generosity, thoughts, prayers and kind words are the only things that have kept me moving over the past four months." O'Donnell is scheduled to he sentenced in December. Kevin Shea may be reached at kshea@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @kevintshea. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Rutgers University will immediately start investigating all sexual harassment complaints, including those more than two years old, the university's president announced Wednesday hours after the publication of an NJ Advance Media report about the controversial issue. The announcement reverses a policy that had provoked complaints from students who filed sexual harassment and misconduct complaints in the wake of the #MeToo era that Rutgers officials said were too old to investigate. Some of the sexual harassment complaints Rutgers declined to look into because the incidents happened more than two years ago were filed are against professors who are still teaching on campus, the news organization's investigation found. The two-year rule "is inconsistent with both our practices and our values," Rutgers President Robert Barchi said in a letter to the state university's governing boards sent less than eight hours after the publication of the story. "We must send a clear message of our commitment to pursue any complaint of sexual harassment or misconduct for which evidence and witnesses remain," Barchi said. Barchi said he has also ordered a review of the office that investigates sexual harassment complaints to make sure it has enough staff, resources and training. The office has seen its caseload rise in recent years, he said. The university will also establish a University Committee on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment, a panel of students, faculty and staff to recommend ways to reduce sexual harassment at the 60,000-student university, Barchi said. Before Barchi made the announcement, Gov. Phil Murphy said a two-year limit on harassment complaints "doesn't sound like it's right." "In any era, but certainly in this era, I think you've got to cross all your 't's and dot all your 'i's. Whether you're a university, whether you're a church, or some other organization . . . your responsibility is to take this stuff seriously and run everything to the ground," Murphy said. Tell us your experiences with allegations of sexual harassment in New Jersey: Here's how to share your story. NJ Advance Media Staff Writer Matt Arco contributed to this report. Susan K. Livio may be reached at slivio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SusanKLivio. Kelly Heyboer may be reached at kheyboer@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KellyHeyboer. Find her at KellyHeyboerReporter on Facebook. By Dan Antonellis Region Nine UAW Housing Corporation understands firsthand the origins of New Jersey's housing affordability crisis. We were founded by the United Auto Workers Union in 1970 to address a workforce housing crisis caused by Mahwah's attempts to exclude factory workers. The UAW and its then-region director, Martin Gerber, were leaders in the struggle for fair housing. Mahwah, like suburban towns across New Jersey, was luring industry out of nearby cities in the decades following World War II. While the town's elected leaders were happy to have a Ford plant in town to bolster the tax rolls, they tried to prevent the highly diverse workforce from living in their exclusive enclave -- which was overwhelmingly white. Thanks to restrictive zoning policies that artificially inflated the cost of housing, practically all of the 5,500 workers at the Ford plant were forced to commute long distances each day. Ford even organized van pools to bring in workers from out of state. Towns like Mahwah were forced to change these restrictive policies because of a series of landmark decisions from the New Jersey Supreme Court. Known as the Mount Laurel Doctrine, they prevent towns from using their zoning powers to exclude low-income residents and families of color. Thanks to the Mount Laurel Doctrine, our mission has expanded over the decades, from workforce housing to providing supportive and wraparound services to working families, seniors and people with disabilities. Yet despite the nearly 1,200 affordable housing units we maintain throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania, we must constantly turn away families in need for lack of availability. That's because, despite New Jersey's strong laws, towns are constantly attempting to backslide. They were emboldened by the policies of former Gov. Chris Christie, whose administration made it almost impossible to build new affordable housing in New Jersey. As a result, Region Nine UAW Housing Corporation, which is based in New Brunswick, has turned to Pennsylvania and New York, where affordable development receives more local support. But now, after nearly a decade of gridlock that prevented proper enforcement of the Mount Laurel Doctrine, we're finally seeing progress with our state's fair housing laws. We are encouraged that the Murphy administration will set a new course. About 220 towns across the state, from Woodbridge to Scotch Plains to Maplewood, now have local fair housing plans in place, paving the way for the construction of tens of thousands of new homes affordable to working families - thanks to a series of rulings by the New Jersey Supreme Court that got the Mount Laurel process back on track. As part of these settlements, towns are employing a number of innovative strategies to tackle the housing crisis head on. Municipalities are working with non-profits like ours to develop both mixed-income and 100-percent-affordable projects that serve working families, seniors, the formerly homeless, people with disabilities and other families with special needs. These types of developments require true partnerships at the local, state and even federal levels to finance and maintain. Local towns can help make these projects financially viable by approving payments in lieu of taxes or by using local affordable housing trust fund dollars earmarked specifically for this work. And the state and federal government provide low-interest loans, tax credits and other subsidies to get these projects off the ground. The Mount Laurel Doctrine continues to be at the center of addressing the state's unmet need because it forces towns to focus on the problem of housing affordability and prevents them from throwing up roadblocks. Thanks to the fair housing process currently underway, we're finally moving beyond the endless debates and empty rhetoric and getting real results. The need is enormous. Hundreds of thousands of working families throughout the state are looking to move into high-quality, affordable homes close to good schools, jobs and their families. In New Jersey, thousands of aging parents of people with disabilities worry their children will have no place to go after they've passed. And seniors on fixed incomes live in fear that rising housing costs will force them to move away from the communities they've called home for decades. We need to build on the success we're already achieving. It's time for the state's remaining towns to come to the table and negotiate in good faith with housing advocates to get shovels in the ground as quickly as possible to build new homes for New Jersey's working families who have already waited too long. Dan Antonellis is president of the Region Nine UAW Housing Corporation. Follow NJ.com Opinion on Twitter @NJ_Opinion. Find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. California Gov. Jerry Brown signed a law that "requires at least one female director on the board of each California-based public corporation by the end of [2019]," per the Associated Press. Supporters of the measure say it will lead to more diverse perspectives in companies' leadership, while also triggering a decrease in sexual harassment in the workplace. Opponents of the new law argue the state has no business influencing boardroom members, and could actually increase discrimination. What do you think? PERSPECTIVES As usual, California becomes the first state to move towards progress; this time, aiming for gender equality. The AP reports: This new law is one of several signed by Brown, making it clear that the state is tired of simply discussing topics relating to gender equality and wants to take action instead. In addition to this law, Brown also: Regardless of the governor's good intent, the California Chamber of Commerce stands in stark opposition to the new law, saying: From the Chamber of Commerce's perspective, the government has no business mandating the "composition of corporate boards." According to the chamber, by prioritizing gender, the law minimizes other aspects of diversity like race and ethnicity. The AP reports that senior vice president for policy at the chamber Jennifer Barrera said of the new policy: The law represents huge progress for women in business, given that a fourth of publicly-held companies based in California don't have any women on their boards of directors, according to state Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson. The Los Angeles Times reported on Jackson's "fiery" speech to the floor of the California Senate. There, she told senators: California is following an existing precedent set by other countries. In 2007, Norway required that 40% of corporate board seats be held by women, and Germany passed a similar mandate in 2015. According to Anne Staines, the statewide president of the National Association of Women Business Owners: However, Norway's quota has resulted in little beneficial change for women in lower levels of business, and the same is likely for California-that is, if the law isn't proved unconstitutional first. The New York Times's Andrew Ross Sorkin writes: In other words, regardless of good intent, Brown's latest push for gender equality could do more harm than good. Other opponents of the law say it undermines women. According to the Los Angeles Times, Lucy Dunn, the president and CEO of the Orange County Business Council, finds the law insulting: The Tylt is focused on debates and conversations around news, current events and pop culture. We provide our community with the opportunity to share their opinions and vote on topics that matter most to them. We actively engage the community and present meaningful data on the debates and conversations as they progress. The Tylt is a place where your opinion counts, literally. The Tylt is an Advance Local Media, LLC property. Join us on Twitter @TheTylt, on Instagram @TheTylt or on Facebook, we'd love to hear what you have to say. A Paterson man has been found guilty of gunning down an acquaintance as the two walked together from a liquor store in Paterson three years ago. Charles M. Grant, 34, was found guilty by a jury Monday of first-degree murder in the death of Isaac D. Tucker, 40, who was killed in the early morning hours of Feb. 23, 2015, authorities said. "The evidence at trial demonstrated that (Grant) opened fire on Mr. Tucker," Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes said in a statement Tuesday. Tucker was shot at close range in the face, chest, and back, Valdes said. The shooting occurred about 2:18 a.m. in the 200 block of East 16th Street as the men walked together from the Alto Rango Liquor Store four blocks away, Valdes said. Isaac D. Tucker No motive was disclosed. Grant was captured two months after the killing hiding out in Elkton, Maryland, authorities have said. In addition to murder, the jury convicted Grant of two second-degree weapons possession charges, Valdes said. A judge revoked Grant's bail and he was taken to the Passaic County Jail to await sentencing, according to Valdes. Grant faces a possible life term in prison when he is sentenced on Nov. 2, the prosecutor said. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook. WASHINGTON -- Almost half of the money spent on campaign ads in the 2018 midterm elections are from groups that keep their donors hidden, and there is no way to know whether corporations are making secret contributions to candidates and causes their customers oppose. That is, unless the companies themselves disclose their donations. A growing number of publicly traded corporations are doing just that, led by Becton, Dickinson & Co., of Franklin Lakes, one of three companies who received the highest score in the annual Index of Corporate Political Disclosure and Accountability produced by the Center for Political Accountability and the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School's Zicklin Center for Business Ethics Research. "They recognize that political spending does post serious risks to them," said Bruce Freed, director of the Center for Political Accountability, a Washington-based advocacy group pushing for more corporate disclosure of political spending. Of the 414 companies in the S&P 500 since 2015, 137 either fully disclose or prohibit donations to trade associations for political use, up from 97 in 2 015. And 119 fully disclose or prohibit contributions to nonprofit groups that can be spent on politics, an increase from 81 three years ago. "The public, various stakeholders, even company employees look at the company's political spending and react to it if it conflicts with company core values, company company positions, company products," Freed said. "The company takes a big reputational hit and a business hit on that." Four other New Jersey-based companies, Merck & Co., Celgene Corp., Johnson & Johnson and Prudential Financial, also scored high in the index. Former Celgene executive Bob Hugin is the Republican nominee against U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., this fall. Celgene Executive Vice President Richard Bagger said the rating "reflects both our ongoing commitment to transparency and our corporate values, which emphasize trust in our words and actions. We are proud to have been on the forefront of political contributions reporting and will continue providing this information in twice-annual public reports." Becton Dickinson did not respond to a request for comment. Political spending by trade associations and nonprofit groups, which can keep their donors hidden, has grown since the U.S. Supreme Court's five-member conservative majority struck down limits on corporate and union spending in its 2010 Citizens United decision. Through Sept. 17, 49 percent of the money spent on campaign ads during the midterms, seen as a referendum on President Donald Trump, came from groups that do not disclose their donors, according to the Wesleyan Media Project, which is tracking such spending. Even some political groups that do disclose the sources of their contributions, such as the Congressional Leadership Fund super political action committee linked to House Speaker Paul Ryan, get millions of dollars from nonprofits whose donors remain hidden. Hence, the ongoing efforts to get companies to disclose whether they're spending corporate funds on behalf of candidates or causes that may be at odds with their businesses or customers. Merck and Johnson & Johnson, two of the biggest sellers of contraceptives, and their trade association gave millions of dollars to support Republican governors and legislatures that tried to block access to birth control. And both Merck and Comcast Corp., who supported Cory Booker's run for the Senate through their PACs, also contributed to trade associations giving to a nonprofit backing his Republican opponent. The classic example is Target Corp., which faced a boycott by gay-rights groups in 2010 after donating $150,000 to a business group backing a Minnesota gubernatorial candidate who opposed same-sex marriage. Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JDSalant or on Facebook. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook. A conservative right-to-work group is suing Gov. Phil Murphy's administration over a New Jersey law that restricts when and how public-sector workers can opt out of their unions. The Michigan-based Mackinac Center for Public Policy filed the suit Wednesday in U.S. District Court arguing the Workplace Democracy Enhancement Act "interferes with public employees' First Amendment right to resign from and end financial support to a union at any time." The new law was approved by the Democratic-controlled Legislature in April and signed by the Democratic governor in May in anticipation of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Janus V. AFSCME. That state law strengthened the rights of public-sector unions in New Jersey, giving them greater access to their members and penalizing public employers that encourage people to resign their union membership. At also lays out a 10-day period after the anniversary of an employees' hire date that they can quit their unions. The Mackinac Center argues in its lawsuit that the law undermines the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in Janus and places unconstitutional limitations on public workers' rights to resign their membership. Under the much-anticipated 5-4 ruling in Janus, the court found that public-sector unions could not collect agency fees from public workers it represents but who choose not to join the union. Prior to Janus, New Jersey was one of about two dozen states where workers were required either to join their union and pay full dues or opt out and pay partial "agency fees." Those fees supported the union's nonpartisan activities, like collective bargaining or grievance hearings. In that decision, the court said employees must "clearly and affirmatively consent before any money is taken out for them." Anything less, it said, would violate their First Amendment rights. The Legislature passed the Workplace Democracy Enhancement Act as a preemptive strike against the ruling, which was expected to hit their membership rolls and coffers. The Mackinac Center, along with the Americans for Prosperity Foundation, the advocacy group funded by billionaire energy executives Charles and David Koch, has been conducting a nationwide campaign called "My Pay My Say" to help workers opt out of their unions after the Janus ruling. Spokesman Jarrett Skorup told NJ Advance Media last month that the organization's mail, email and radio ad campaign is focusing especially on such states as New Jersey with high rates of union membership. New Jersey has been the No. 1 source of visitors to the site, Skorup said, with the second-highest number of visitors filling out its resignation letter. The Mackinac Center said it filed Wednesday's suit on behalf of three Lakewood building inspectors, including Point Pleasant Borough resident Mike Thulen, a member of the Point Pleasant Borough Council and past president of AFSCME Local 3790. It also names as defendants Lakewood Township, AFSCME and New Jersey's Public Employment Relations Commission. A spokesman for the Attorney General's office declined to comment. A spokesman for Murphy did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Thulen said when he took a job in Lakewood six years ago he had no interest in joining a union. But given the choice between becoming an agency fee payer, which would not have entitled him the right to vote on union leadership and labor contracts, and paying a few dollars more a month to have a say, he said he chose to have a voice. Over the next few years, including time served as president, Thulen became concerned with the union's transparency and management, he said. After the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that he could leave entirely and he expressed his wishes with his employer, he said he was surprised to see $40.40 was still being deducted from his paychecks. His employer pointed to the Workplace Democracy Enhancement Act, he said. Thulen said he then missed his 10-day window in September to resign. "It should be much easier for people," he said. "I'm not an anti-union guy. But if you don't do your job, I shouldn't have to pay you. You're essentially paying for a service. If that service sucks or if that service is being poorly managed or poorly financially run, you're handcuffed." The lawsuit asks for a declaration that union members can resign at any time, that the restrictions of the Workplace Democracy Enhancement Act be deemed unenforceable, and attorney's fees. Samantha Marcus may be reached at smarcus@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @samanthamarcus. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook. Another poll is showing New Jersey's U.S. Senate race between Democratic incumbent Robert Menendez and Republican challenger Bob Hugin is a tight one -- and that Menendez still needs to win over members of his own party. Menendez held a five-point lead over Hugin, the former Celgene Corp. executive, among the state's registered voters, and a six-point lead among likely voters in the Fairleigh Dickinson University PublicMind Poll released Wednesday morning. With margins of error taken into account, the poll called it a "statistical dead heat." And about one-in-five Democrats are undecided. Menendez led Hugin 43 to 37 percent among likely voters in the poll, and 37 to 32 percent among registered voters. That's similar to his 4-point lead in a May FDU survey among registered voters, the first poll that didn't give Menendez a double-digit advantage and thus forecast a close Senate contest. Since then, polls by Quinnipiac University (6 percentage points) and Stockton University (2 percentage points) have Menendez ahead, but not by much. Hugin has yet to lead in any legitimate survey. "There's no denying that this is tighter than one would expect for an incumbent senator," said Krista Jenkins, director of the FDU poll and a political science professor at the university. Just 73 percent of Democratic likely voters said they would support Menendez, with 22 percent undecided. Hugin, on the other hand, was backed by 89 percent of Republican likely voters, with just 6 percent undecided. The large number of undecided Democrats followed a two-day gathering in Atlantic City last month, where Democratic National Chairman Tom Perez, Gov. Phil Murphy, Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver, U.S. Sen. Cory Booker and other officials urged the party faithful to get to the polls and pull the lever for Menendez. "It's both a blessing and a curse that a good number of Democrats remain up for grabs," Jenkins said. "Partisan leanings are usually a strong indicator of how someone will vote. If Menendez is able to capture the support of undecided Democrats, plus some of the independents, he will be able to decisively pull ahead of Hugin by November. It will be harder for Hugin to do the same, given the smaller base of undecided Republicans in the state." Menendez also could get a boost from the antipathy that voters have for President Donald Trump. Almost 6 in 10 likely voters, 59 percent, had an unfavorable view of Trump, while less than 4 in 10, 39 percent, viewed him favorably. Hugin contributed the maximum $5,400 to Trump's campaign and another $233,200 to the Republican National Committee that helped elect him. Working against Menendez, however, is the fact that more than half of the likely voters polled, 53 percent, viewed him unfavorably, compared with 35 percent who had a favorable opinion of the senator. Hugin was viewed favorably by 36 percent and unfavorably by 30 percent. Menendez was "severely admonished" by the Senate Ethics Committee for for accepting gifts and trips from a friend and campaign donor, Dr. Salomon Melgen, while intervening with federal agencies on his behalf. The ethics committee acted after Menendez's trial on corruption charges ended in a mistrial. After the judge acquitted Menendez of some of the charges, the U.S. Justice Department dropped the rest of the case. Hugin has spent $15.5 million of his own money through June 30 on his campaign, primarily on ads attacking Menendez on ethics. The poll of 508 likely voters was conducted Sept. 26-30 and had a margin of error of plus-or-minus 4.3 percentage points. Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JDSalant or on Facebook. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook. Attacks on U.S. Sen. Cory Booker have become a regular feature of President Donald Trump's campaign speeches. In Southaven, Mississippi, on Tuesday, for the fourth time in four days, Trump went after Booker, a potential 2020 presidential campaign opponent and a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee who opposes putting Judge Brett Kavanaugh on the U.S. Supreme Court. Trump began by calling Booker and two other committee Democrats, ranking member Dianne Feinstein of California and Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, "really evil people" for opposing Kavanaugh. Kavanaugh's confirmation would solidify a five-member conservative majority on the Supreme Court that already has rejected long-standing precedents on voting rights and political spending, and possibly could overturn the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion, as the president promised his nominees would do. The crowd booed when Trump turned to Booker and repeated the charges he has leveled against the senator in previous speeches on Saturday in West Virginia event and on Monday at a White House press conference and then at a Tennessee rally that same evening. "Here's a guy who destroyed, practically by himself, the city of Newark, New Jersey," Trump said in Mississippi. "He was just a bad mayor." Trump, who has been accused numerous times of sexual harassment, then again referred to Booker's article as a student in the Stanford University newspaper. "See what he wrote himself about women," Trump said. "Check it out folks. Then he talks, 'How dare you treat a woman like that.' Take a look at what this guy wrote." Booker wrote that as a 15-year-old, he tried to grope a girl's breast after she gave him "an overwhelming kiss" on New Year's Eve. He cited the incident as he decried a campus culture of men trying to get women to sleep with them, and said he had a "wake-up call" as a peer counselor after hearing "men and women discussing rape." Critics of Booker have equated Booker's account to Christine Blasey Ford's contention that Kavanaugh covered her mouth and turned up the music in a room to muffle her screams as he tried to sexually assault her while both were in high school. After Ford testified before the Judiciary Committee last week, Senate Republicans bowed to pressure and postponed a final vote on Kavanaugh's nomination to give the FBI time to investigate her allegations. During the presidential campaign, Trump had admitted it was his voice on a video when he made lewd comments about groping women and trying to seduce one who was married. Trump followed his attacks on Booker by proclaiming himself innocent of sexual harassment. "I've had many false accusations," Trump said at the rally. "I've had so many, and when I say it didn't happen, nobody believes me." Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JDSalant or on Facebook. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook. The once-popular Gingerbread Castle that was the centerpiece of an amusement park decades ago is getting a much-needed facelift. The iconic spot often featured on fascinating New Jersey places lists has been purchased by a New Jersey man, who has been meticulously cleaning, repairing and refurbishing the formerly dilapidated Hamburg, Sussex County landmark for about a year. While there's still a long way to go to restore the castle to its former glory, new owner Don Oriolo said he is up for the challenge of preserving something he's called an important part of the area's history. "We're making good progress," Oriolo said Wednesday. "We've cleared the grounds of a lot of overgrown brush and trees and we're starting to do some basic stabilization on the structure." The castle, which sits just off Route 23, was the centerpiece of an amusement park built in late 1920s and is located next to the Wheatsworth Mill. The three-story concrete castle was designed by Viennese architect and theater set designer Joseph Urban with circular towers and once looked like a gingerbread house with icing. The park closed in the late 1970s, but the largely abandoned castle and some of its popular fairy-tale characters remained, including Humpty Dumpty, who sits outside. Oriolo said he has been aware of the castle for years and attended a haunted Halloween event there around nearly 20 years ago. He added that his father visited the castle when it was in its heyday in the middle of last century. Oriolo is relying on a collection of old photographs of the castle as well as the talents of local artists and word carvers to try to recreate down to the smallest detail the way it once looked. That's the trickiest and most labor intensive aspect of the renovation. "It takes a lot research, it takes a lot of time to do," he said. Still, Oriolo said the hope is to have the castle and grounds in condition to host "limited functions" next year that could include events like a food truck festival, pony rides and face painting. Other events could have nursery rhyme themes and feature Jack & The Beanstalk as well as Hansel and Gretel, according to Oriolo. The story of N.J.'s Gingerbread Castle is no fairy tale. This Gingerbread Castle is surrounded by barbed wire. Have you seen this decaying icon? Posted by NJ.com on Wednesday, September 19, 2018 Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Find NJ.com on Facebook. "Sturgeon" by Kate Graves Food for thought about the Delaware River that runs in, around and through so many of our lives here in this part of New Jersey: "The ocean begins here." Those four intriguing words mentioned in materials for the current exhibition "Delaware Dreams" at D&R Greenway Land Trust, put the whole of our geographic position in a context interesting to explore. As mentioned in those same materials, "The Delaware is the longest dammed river in the United States east of the Mississippi, extending 330 miles from the confluence of its East and West branches at Hancock, NY to the mouth of the Delaware Bay where it meets the Atlantic." This exhibition explores the tidal waters of the river, the bridges that span its shores where wildflowers and grasses proliferate, the paths to nearby populated areas and the people who live in them. Noting that "the Delaware River is home to a genetically distinct population of Atlantic sturgeon, one now seriously compromised by the 19th century caviar harvesting an pollution from heavy industry along the river," sculptor and painter Kate Graves is displaying her "EPS 9' Sturgeon Pattern" made of foam, acrylic, wax and oyster shells. Also displayed nearby are "Rubber Mold & Wax Castings of Sturgeon and Scute" while at the opening of the exhibit you'll find her iron "42-inch Sturgeon" displayed on a steel base that brings to mind the bridge structures under which Kate Graves paddles her kayak letting her mind wander among the wonders that lie beneath. Bob Barish's giclee print of his painting, "Morning Fog," captures the steel structure of a bridge disappearing in the distance into the mist and fog rising from the river as a lone sculler plies his way through the silent hovering vapors. Using watercolors and a fun title, "Betsy, Ben and Walt," Erica Harney presents three paintings of bridges spanning the Betsy Ross, the Ben Franklin and the Walt Whitman bridges. And in a semi-abstract portrayal, she offers a view through a steel bridge structure across a red river to a distant shore in her oil and acrylic on muslin, "The Mountain That I Climbed to Lose You/Girard Point Bridge." In the People of the Delaware section of the exhibit, Sara Anne Abo-Harb is displaying her watercolor painting, "Three Violinists" in which three girls are seen standing behind their music stands. Two are intent on making their music while the girl in the middle looks out upon the viewer. Nearby is Bob Barish's "Lambertville, Night Coffee," a view from outside in the night looking in upon a man seated amid the golden glow of a cafe's interior supposedly hovering over his coffee. Also in the People of the Delaware section is Sara Anne Abo-Harb's watercolor "Self Portrait by the Creek." In this expertly rendered work, we come upon the back of a young woman seated on the edge of a grey stone ledge looking down upon her legs extended into the dark-land and blue-sky reflections in the water. She wears a grey and black bathing suit that is rendered so well one exhibit visitor commented she could see "the being beneath the fabric." It is that quality that is present in all the works well curated by Diana Moore. One entire gallery at D&R Greenway's Johnson Education Center is filled with "Flora of the Delaware," twenty of Frank Sauer's close-up photographs of flowers and grasses of this region. As exhibit materials point out, the images have a "painterly, impressionistic feel--they are about color, shape and gesture, not about sharp detail." There is a spontaneous quality about Sauer's archival pigment prints. In "Japanese Stiltgrass," for example, it's almost as if you can hear the gentle swish of the stems and leaves as they appear to be moving gracefully in a gentle breeze. A White Dogwood blossom raises one petal as if in welcome as you enter the room while nearby a blue "Dayflower" and a "daddy longlegs" spider look like they're having a friendly conversation. Botanist Mary Leck assisted in identifying the plants in the exhibition. The show is displayed in galleries on the first and second floors of the Johnson Education Center. Be sure to make note of the photographs displayed along the stairwell connecting both floors of properties purchased protected by D&R Greenway Land Trust in the Delaware watershed. "The Delaware River watershed provides drinking water to 5% of the US population!" says President and CEO Linda J. Mead. "Delaware Dreams celebrates the beauty and the life-giving qualities of this river that runs through our lives." IF YOU GO: WHAT: Delaware Dreams: Return to the River Art WHERE: D&R Greenway Land Trust, One Preservation Place, Princeton WHEN: Through November 9. Hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday Call to be sure of gallery availability at time of prospective visit. CONTACT: 609-924-5577. www.drgreenway.org Follow NJ.com on Twitter @njdotcom. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Hunters and other interested persons are encouraged to attend any of three upcoming public meetings regarding the draft Strategic Management Plan for Black Bears in Georgia (copy available athttps://georgiawildlife.com/ bear-info ). This long term strategic plan was developed to ensure the long-term conservation of Georgias black bear population through science-based decision-making and biologically-sound management principles to provide sustainable harvest opportunities and promote the black bears intrinsic value in Georgias natural landscape while minimizing human-bear conflicts, said Adam Hammond, state bear biologist with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division. All meetings will begin at 7 p.m. Oct. 16 Go Fish Education Center (1255 Perry Parkway, Perry, GA) Oct. 17 Blue Ridge EMC (875 Main Street East, Young Harris, GA) Oct. 30 Ware County Courthouse (800 Church Street, Waycross, GA) Any participant at a meeting may present data, make a statement or comment, or offer a viewpoint or argument, either orally or in writing. Statements should be concise to permit everyone an opportunity to speak. Participants must register upon arrival and notify the registering official of their intent to give a statement. Those unable to attend a meeting may submit input in one of the following methods (input must be received by Monday, Nov. 5): Statements may be electronically submitted at: http://georgiawildlife.com/ regulations/meetings Written statements should be mailed to: GA DNR/Wildlife Resources Division/Game Management Section; Attn: Tina Johannsen; 2067 U.S. Highway 278, S.E.; Social Circle, Georgia 30025. Call 706 557-3350. These meeting sites are accessible to people with physical disabilities. To request sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aids, contact Tina Johannsen at 706-557-3350. UPS is ramping up holiday hiring in New Orleans. The package delivery company plans to hire roughly 700 temporary employees in the New Orleans area ahead of the busy holiday shopping season, UPS spokesman Dan McMackin said in an email. In addition, the company will be hiring 500 people in the Baton Rouge area. Seasonal jobs available locally include part-time package handlers, driver helpers and drivers both for the company's brown delivery trucks and the freight trucks that ferry packages between regional hubs. McMackin said pay ranges from $10.35 to $20 an hour, depending on the position. UPS plans to hire about 100,000 temporary employees nationwide as it prepares for the holiday season, which kicks into full gear the day after Thanksgiving on Black Friday. This year's hiring goal is up from 95,000 holiday workers hired in 2017, CNBC reports. In addition to the busy weeks running up to the Christmas holiday, UPS sees a "secondary spike" in package volume in January as people return gifts and use gift cards to make online purchases. McMackin said seasonal workers are needed into early January. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up He added seasonal workers will be considered for permanent positions in the New Year. About a third of UPS workers hired for seasonal work come back to the company in a permanent position with benefits in January, he said. Benefits include health care, pension and, for part-time employees, up to $25,000 in tuition reimbursement. UPS jobs in the New Orleans area are based out of one of four hubs: New Orleans East, 5700 Morrison Road Those interested in applying can search for jobs and file an online application at www.jobs-ups.com. UPS has about 454,000 employees globally, 374,000 of which work in the United States, according to the company's website. A 47-year-old man was walking in the 7th Ward when a 13-year-old boy ran up behind him and stole his phone Tuesday evening (Oct. 3), according to initial reports from New Orleans Police Department. The man was walking near A.P. Tureaud Avenue and N. Prieur Street around 6:25 p.m., police said. Police arrested the 13-year-old at N. Prieur and Pauger streets. Three additional simple robberies and three armed robberies were also reported to New Orleans police and listed in the department's crime log from Tuesday (Oct. 2) morning to Wednesday (Oct. 3) morning. Central Business District: A 16-year-old boy was talking on the phone while in the 700 block of Baronne Street around 4:15 p.m. when an unidentified man approached him from around the corner and punched him in the face, police said. After the 16-year-old fell to the ground, the man continued to punch him. An unidentified woman grabbed the boy's phone, police said, and both the man and woman fled the scene. Whitney area: A 16-year-old boy was walking from the bus stop in the 1100 block of L. B. Landry Avenue in Algiers around 8:21 p.m. when two men approached him, according to police. While one man grabbed the boy's arm, the other grabbed the boy's wallet from his pocket, police said. Both men then fled southbound on L.B. Landry Avenue, police said, and then in an unknown direction. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Milan: A 34-year-old man was sitting outside around 11:46 p.m. in the 3400 block of S. Liberty Street when two men with guns approached him and demanded his property, police said. The 34-year-old complied and the two men fled the scene with the 34-year-old's cell phone and car key, police said. Pines Village: A 24-year-old man with the nickname, "Blac" and a 58-year old woman went to the ATM just before 1 a.m. in the 6000 block of Downman Road, according to police. The woman withdrew money to pay the 24-year-old man for drugs, police said. The woman gave a portion of the money to the man and both returned to her home. The man then reached into the woman's pocket, took the remaining cash and fled, police said. Little Woods: Police reported an armed robbery in the 6200 block of Wales Street around 6:43 a.m. No additional details were immediately available. St. Anthony: A 38-year-old man was walking near Robert E. Lee and Pasteur boulevards in Gentilly around 6:43 a.m. when two men in a gray four-door vehicle approached him, police said. One man pulled out a black revolver and demanded the 38-year-old's wallet and made him remove his shoes. The two men then fled the scene, police said. After media reports circulated in September about a woman who bit the genitals of John Patton to escape an alleged sexual assault at his Westwego home, a second woman came forward to report a similar attempted rape, according to Kenner police. Like the first victim to contact authorities, the second woman met Patton, 54, through an online dating app, said Lt. Michael Cunningham, spokesman for the Kenner Police Department. "The victim did not initially report the sexual assault out of fear," Cunningham said. But the woman was moved to reach out to police after reading about the Sept. 8 attempted rape, authorities said. The first victim told Westwego detectives that Patton held her at knifepoint for several hours as she stood naked in the corner of his kitchen, holding him off with a coffee table. "After seeing a recent news report of Patton's arrest for assaulting another woman, the victim felt guilty for not making a report, which she felt could have prevented the recent attack," Cunningham said. Kenner police rearrested Patton Monday (Oct. 1) and booked him with attempted third-degree rape and sexual battery. The second woman, 46, told detectives she met Patton on Tinder about two years ago. The pair went on dates for a few weeks. But during a visit to her Kenner home in October 2016, Patton began pressuring her to have sex, Cunningham said. The woman turned down his advances. Angered, Patton accused the woman of seeing someone else and forced her into a back bedroom, Cunningham said. Patton pushed the woman onto her stomach on the bed, lifted her dress, ripped her underwear and tried to rape her, Cunningham said. He left after about 10 minutes. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up The first victim to report an assault by Patton told investigators she met him on the dating website Plenty of Fish, according to Lt. Eric Orlando, spokesman for the Westwego Police Department. Patton asked the woman to come to his home in the 1300 block of Central Avenue in Westwego on the evening of Sept. 7 under the guise of meeting his sister. But when she arrived, Patton is accused of putting hand over her mouth and dragging her into a bedroom, Orlando said. Patton "implied that he wanted to have sex," and the victim agreed out of fear, Orlando said. When Patton was "unable to perform," he asked for oral sex. The victim bit Patton's genitals and ran from the bedroom, leaving her clothing and property behind. Patton followed the woman, who was naked, and grabbed a knife from the kitchen, lunging at her, Orlando said. The woman backed into a corner and grabbed a coffee table which she used it as a barricade between herself and Patton, Orlando said. The two were in a standoff for several hours with Patton lunging at the woman and asking her to get her belongings and leave. But the woman was afraid to go back into the bedroom and the home's locked doors could only be opened by a key, Orlando said. Patton finally agreed to release the woman around 9 a.m. the next morning. The woman left the house and called 911. After seven hours of trying to make contact with Patton at his house, the Westwego police's Special Response Team deployed a canister of gas into house. Patton surrendered peacefully after 10 minutes, Orlando said. Westwego police booked Patton with second-degree rape, aggravated sexual battery and false imprisonment while armed with a dangerous weapon. Patton was being held Wednesday at the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center in Gretna. No bond has been set on the charges related to the Kenner incident. Patton was being held on a $550,000 bond for the charges from Westwego police. He was also being held without bond for parole violation. Patton is on parole until 2092 for a cocaine possession conviction in Texas, authorities said. Louisiana State Police on Tuesday (Oct. 2) took down a machete-wielding man outside New Orleans City Hall who appeared shirtless in Duncan Plaza with the giant knife in the middle of the afternoon workday, according to witnesses and police. Sheriff's deputies had surrounded the man in the park outside the City Hall entrance on Perdido Street when a State Trooper arrived with a Taser, according to State Police. They said that once it became clear the man wasn't going to drop the machete, "the Trooper used his Taser to safely subdue the man" with the assistance of deputies. Police said the man was taken to the hospital for a mental health evaluation and then was booked on charges of aggravated assault and resisting arrest. Mayor LaToya Cantrell issued a statement about the incident on Tuesday evening. "The disturbance outside in Duncan Plaza this afternoon was an unfortunate, frightening event," Cantrell said. "I'm grateful to all of our law enforcement partners, including our building security team, the NOPD, the OPSO and the Louisiana State Police for moving quickly to resolve the situation." "Thankfully, no one was seriously hurt and the individual in question was taken into custody, where he can be evaluated with regard to his mental and medical condition," Cantrell added. "Mental health issues are a serious component of our commitment to addressing public safety as a matter of public health, and I hope this individual is able to get the treatment he needs." The New Orleans Wine and Food Experience is shifting its dates in 2019. The culinary event has traditionally been held Memorial Day weekend, but next year, it will be held in April 3 through 7. "April in New Orleans is the ideal time for a festival," Gail Varuso, NOWFE president said in a press release. "The weather is beautiful, making it optimal for activities like wining and dining al fresco, strolling through the French Quarter, and visiting New Orleans' cultural destinations." She said the board voted unanimously to move the festival to earlier in the springtime. "Several of our events take place outdoors and we believe this earlier date will attract more people to those events while enjoying the perfect weather," said Aimee Brown, NOWFE executive director. The festival joins a jam-packed festival lineup in April, with heavy-hitters such as the French Quarter Festival from April 11 to 15 and the two-weekend-long New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival opening on April 26. Food and restaurant news in your inbox Every Thursday we give you the scoop on NOLA dining. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up NOWFE will announce its 2019 seminars and "experiences" lineup when they are finalized. The festival is best known for its grand tastings, where thousands of bottles of wine and dozens and dozens of dishes are served as well as the Royal Street Stroll, a street party held each year in the French Quarter. The event also features wine dinners at New Orleans area restaurants, seminars and day-trips for attendees. In its 26-year history, NOWFE has donated more than $1.2 million to various local nonprofits. In 2018, NOWFE committed 100 percent of its proceeds to Nunez Community College Culinary Arts Program. Find more information at NOWFE.com. On Monday (Oct. 1), President Donald Trump announced that the United States would impose tariffs on $200 billion worth of goods imported from China. Among the food items is a long list of fresh, frozen and processed seafood, such as shrimp and crawfish, along with popular fish, such as tilapia, trout and catfish. The tariffs started at 10 percent on Sept. 24. They are expected to increase to 25 percent on Jan. 1. Find the full list of products here and below. Earlier this year, Sen. John Kennedy of Louisiana requested that shrimp and crawfish be added to the list of items on which tariffs would be imposed. In an April 17 letter to the White House, Kennedy noted that "including crawfish and shrimp would provide a much-needed economic boost to the Louisiana seafood industry... For years, Chinese companies have dumped inferior, sometimes fraudulent, seafood products into the American marketplace, and Louisiana industries have suffered as a result." Kennedy could not be reached Monday or Tuesday for comment. Louisiana shrimpers and crawfish farmers have long complained about a glut of less expensive imported seafood from Asia that undercuts their prices. In response, Congress beefed up the abilities of federal agencies to guard against dumping, that is artificially lowering a product's price so that it has an competitive advantage over competitors in the destination country. Tariffs are another step in the right direction, those in the industry say, but they add that better inspection and regulation of imported seafood is essential to protect U.S. interests. The Southern Shrimp Alliance supports the tariffs, but it also wants better policing of aquaculture so that frequent violators could be restricted. The tariffs demonstrate the administration's commitment to "reforming and improving our nation's trade policy," John Williams, the executive director of the Southern Shrimp Alliance, said in a statement Monday. "By recklessly tolerating the unprincipled use of antibiotics in Chinese aquaculture, seafood importers in this country have forced others to absorb the costs while they reap profits," he said. "President Trump's additional tariffs appropriately levels the playing field for all seafood producers -- including foreign producers in countries outside of China - that supply the U.S. market that have been trying to do right by their customers." Other countries, such as Ecuador, that have had fewer violations support these efforts as well, according to the alliance. "Anything to slow the amount of imports coming into the country would help the fishermen," said Lance Nacio, owner of Anna Marie Shrimp in Montegut, adding that he, too, wants better inspection of imported seafood. Food and restaurant news in your inbox Every Thursday we give you the scoop on NOLA dining. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Kennedy proposed additional inspections on imported seafood by increasing the federal inspection budget by $3 million to stop the import of shrimp that contain toxins or antibiotics common in shrimp farming operations. For consumers, the change may result in higher prices on imported seafood at the wholesale and retail level. One popular brand of frozen crawfish tail meat is sold under the Boudreaux's brand, which falls under the umbrella of two related companies, A La Carte Specialty Foods and Gulf Marine Products, both based in Westwego. The business also imports breaded Chinese oysters, which are sold to fast food restaurants. Both products are now subject to tariffs, said Karl Turner said, president of A La Carte. "We are debating what amount we will pass on" to consumers, Turner said. "Right now, we haven't passed on any cost because we don't want to. In January, the tariff will go to 25 percent. That could be a real game-changer, and it could be devastating because we're talking about products that already have a high cost." When the full tariff is imposed, Turner expects to increase the price "anywhere from 30 to 40 cents a pound." Turner, who also sells domestic crawfish and imports crawfish from Egypt and Spain, said that the company is bringing in more inventory from China to get ahead of the tariff increase in January. That raises storage costs, but enables them to keep the price steady. "Louisiana is a big consumer of Chinese crawfish," Turner said, noting that the Wal-Mart center in Robert is the No. 1 distribution point for the imported product. Chef Tenney Flynn of GW Fins restaurant in the French Quarter, which uses no seafood imported from China, said he hopes the tariffs will "mean a more robust market for domestic products, certainly shrimp." "Hopefully, we'll look at this as an opportunity to buy local seafood, which is wild caught and certainly more healthy, certainly more tasty than something that's raised under conditions that do not bare scrutiny," Flynn said. by on Scribd A man with a decades-long struggle with schizophrenia jumped New Orleans Police Officer Nicola Cotton in 2008, taking her gun and shooting her 15 times. She died in minutes. Her attacker waited for police to arrive and handed over the gun. Nearly a decade earlier, a man with a history of mental illness in New York walked up to Kendra Webdale in a Manhattan subway station and pushed her onto the tracks of an oncoming train to her death. The two killings sparked laws in New York and Louisiana that created a civil court program in which a judge oversees the treatment of people with serious mental illnesses, particularly those who've floundered in the health care system and become sicker with repeated hospitalizations. But the investment in that program, and its impact, has varied widely in the two states. Kendra's Law, as it became known in New York, ushered in what's known as assisted outpatient treatment in 1999, the year of Webdale's death. The state made an initial $157 million investment in the new court program and expanded mental health services, according to an expert who studied the program. It has been hailed as one of the nation's most successful assisted outpatient treatment efforts. In Louisiana, the shocking death of Cotton, a 24-year-old up-and-coming NOPD officer, convinced the state Legislature to approve Nicola's Law in 2008. But there was no similar financial investment. A decade later, no established assisted outpatient treatment program is operating in the state -- although that is finally beginning to change. Orleans Civil District Judge Kern Reese plans to launch a pilot program in his courtroom this year starting with a few patients as they're released from University Medical Center. A similar effort is underway in Baton Rouge. Supporters of assisted outpatient treatment - often known as AOT - say that a civil court's intervention into a troubled patient's treatment can stabilize the individual and prevent a revolving door of hospitalizations and, in some cases, jail stays that hurt patients and cost taxpayers. AOT could potentially fill a gap in Louisiana, where budget cuts and privatization have shrunk the number of long-term inpatient hospital beds. Forty-seven states now have AOT laws, although not all are used to the same degree. The New Orleans movement is spearheaded by mental health advocate Janet Hays of Healing Minds NOLA, whose interest in assisted outpatient treatment has been part of her proposal to redevelop Charity Hospital into a hub of mental health care services. "We're really good at building systems for people who will voluntarily seek care or who we can convince to seek care, but not so good at creating systems for people who won't," Hays said. The AOT program can help family members and caregivers get their loved ones consistent treatment, she said, often a challenge when relatives with mental illnesses don't recognize they're sick - a common condition among people with serious mental illness. Reese, a judge since 2001, said a hallmark of the program is the "black robe effect" -- an "aura of authority" the judge brings to a patient trying to stick to the court-ordered treatment plan, including taking medication, or facing another hospitalization. "It's not a threat," Reese said. "That's just the reality of it. That's the nature of the disease ... if you don't treat yourself, you're going to have that outcome." Under Louisiana law, a mentally ill person can be ordered into outpatient treatment under certain conditions, including that the person "is unlikely to survive safely in the community without supervision" and has met one of two other criteria: -- At least two involuntary psychiatric hospitalizations or receiving mental health services while in jail in the previous 36 months. -- Any threats or acts of "serious violent behavior" either towards others or self-harm because of a mental illness in the previous 36 months. The person must also be deemed unlikely to voluntarily participate in a treatment plan and need mandatory treatment "to prevent a relapse or deterioration," according to the law. Dr. Marvin Swartz, a Duke University psychiatry professor who has extensively studied assisted outpatient treatment, calls it a complex intervention that requires coordinating many people and services. "It can be effective," Swartz said. "It's not inherently effective because it's not like drug 'A' versus drug 'B'.... (which) you just take it and it works or not. It really depends on how it's implemented, the resources available to support it and the buy-in from people to use it." The court's involvement in a patient's treatment "adds a layer of accountability" to make sure the patient is participating and providers are delivering the required care -- while also getting the family's attention and involvement to make sure the patient succeeds, Swartz said. Studies have shown when AOT is effective, people in the program have fewer hospitalizations or arrests and have greater success staying on medication -- while also saving states money by shifting costs from pricier inpatient hospitals stays to less expensive outpatient services. In New York, the total cost of care for an individual was reduced by 50 percent, Swartz said. It took an upfront investment in the program when it started, he said. New York spent about $32 million in the court program and injected $125 million into mental health services. Those investments also benefited people outside the AOT program, he said. Swartz said the success of the program depends on the services available. That would include some form of a case manager that answers to the judge -- such as using existing mobile treatment teams known as Assertive Community Treatment, which already operate in Louisiana and nationwide -- and skilled psychiatrists to prescribe medications for people who've been resistant in the past. The Downtown Development District is giving $15,000 to fund Reese's pilot program that will help get five or six people into the program, and the economic development group is also working to attract more funders, a DDD spokeswoman said. On Sept. 24, the New Orleans group presented their plans to the City Council's criminal justice committee, while seeking $100,000 to fund an AOT monitor to coordinate the program. That person would serve as a liaison between a participant and service providers, making sure the participant is following treatment and collecting data to track the program, said Jeff Blue, an attorney who represents UMC in mental health court cases, while testifying before the committee. That cost should be compared to the expenses of people getting stuck in a revolving door of hospitalizations, advocates said. For example, UMC's behavioral health emergency department saw 3,960 psychiatric patients in the first eight months this year, Blue said. About 2,030 were admitted for an inpatient stay, with an average stay of 9 days at a total cost of about $23 million, he said. "Saving lives and saving costs has a lot to do with getting people and keeping people in treatment and the assisted outpatient treatment is just that - making sure that people who can't exercise good judgment are assisted in their ability to exercise good judgment by requiring them to go to treatment," said Dr. Rochelle Head-Dunham, executive and medical director of Metropolitan Human Services District, which provides mental health and substance abuse treatment in Orleans, St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes. Lisa Dailey, legislative and policy counsel with the Treatment Advocacy Center, which supports AOT nationwide, said it's a myth, though, that a new court program needs a lot of new funding to get up and running. While the court process is involuntary, she said, it's not adversarial - it's actually a positive interaction when viewed first-hand, she said. To that end, Reese said he would hold AOT hearings around a conference room table in a courthouse office, rather than his courtroom. Under Louisiana law, a person could come under an outpatient treatment order either by moving from an inpatient hospital stay or from the community, referred by a family member or police who could file a petition, Dailey said. The judge can help problem-solve if someone isn't complying with the treatment, figuring out whether someone is having trouble remembering appointments or finding transportation, she said. In some cases, the person might need to go back to the hospital. "It ensures there are people who are following this person in the community, so even if they are having trouble complying, there's people paying attention to that," Dailey said. Tragedy in New Orleans Bernel P. Johnson could have been a candidate for a judge's intervention. A promising St. Augustine High School graduate, Johnson was diagnosed with schizophrenia at age 19. By 2008, at age 44, his life had become a cycle of hospitalizations, jail stays and homelessness. His family made repeated attempts to keep him in long-term care, as he spewed violent threats toward them. Once, he shot himself in the chest. NOPD Officer Cotton apparently knew nothing of this when she encountered Johnson outside a row of stores on Earhart Boulevard the morning of Jan. 28, 2008. Just days earlier, Johnson had been released from an involuntary commitment at Southeast Louisiana State Hospital - the now-closed state psychiatric hospital in Mandeville. Cotton walked up and questioned Johnson as she radioed a "Code 4" indicating she did not need backup, police later said. Johnson attacked her - an action captured on surveillance footage - and they wrestled for seven minutes before he grabbed her gun and began firing. In criminal court, Johnson was initially found incompetent to stand trial. After two years of unsuccessful attempts to restore his competency at Eastern Louisiana Mental Health System in Jackson, a judge declared him "irrestorably incompetent." Johnson was committed to the forensic hospital indefinitely and lives there today. A few months after Cotton's killing, the state Legislature approved Nicola's Law. Gov. Bobby Jindal backed the bill, with his administration promising to invest millions in new outpatient clinics and other mental health services, riding a wave of surging revenue from post-Katrina recovery and an oil and gas boom. But Jindal's promises went unfulfilled as his administration's tax cuts clashed with a downturn in state revenues, opening up a budget gap that reached $1.6 billion by 2015. Health care and education, the budget's two largest areas without constitutional protection, were the annual targets of cuts. Not everyone supports assisted outpatient treatment. Critics argue a judge ordering a person into mental health treatment is a violation of civil liberties - a person's freedom to choose their own care or decline treatment. That argument has played out in several court challenges in New York, all of which have ended up with the AOT law upheld, according to the Treatment Advocacy Center. AOT supporters say it's a better alternative to an involuntary inpatient hospital commitment, and successful treatment has the potential to bring more choices to a person's life, once stabilized. 'Gravely disabled' Four years after Nicola's Law was approved, Metairie resident Debi Davies was struggling to come to terms with her 19-year-old son suffering a psychotic break. He'd become paranoid - believing people could hear his thoughts - and making other odd comments that Davies didn't know how to take. His symptoms escalated. He claimed to be a millionaire with a house in California. One day, after Davies returned home from Mass, she got a call: her son had tried to board a private jet at Lakefront Airport, insisting he owned the plane. Police took him to the hospital rather than jail. The psychiatric nurse on the phone said Davies' son was having a psychotic episode. "That was the beginning of him basically being a revolving door, in and out of hospitals, nine times in the next two years," said Davies, who asked that her son not be named to protect his privacy. For the first few months, he stuck to the medication, and when he felt better, he decided to stop taking it. "He just didn't want to have a mental illness - taking the medication would be accepting he had a mental illness," she said. People like her son, she said, aren't being defiant. They simply don't think they need the medication. Each of the nine hospitalizations began with Davies asking for an involuntary commitment through the Jefferson Parish Coroner's Office. Louisiana is the only state where coroners make initial involuntary mental commitment decisions. A person can be brought to the hospital against their will if they're found homicidal, suicidal or "gravely disabled," under state law. Meanwhile, Davies kept making phone calls to figure out more and better options, finding a supportive network through the National Alliance on Mental Illness. She doesn't remember how she first heard about Nicola's Law, but she had the financial means to try it for her son. In 2013 she hired an attorney, who himself had to learn about the law. They filed a petition for an involuntary outpatient treatment order in Jefferson Parish, paying her son's private practice psychiatrist to treat him and to testify in court. A judge granted the AOT order. Meanwhile, she also got an interdiction on her son, a legal maneuver that gave her decision-making power over his medical care. It got the doctors' attention, she said, and her son has stuck with the plan since then. He's now 26 years old. He has a job and friends and drives himself to a local clinic for his monthly anti-psychotic injection. The expense of hiring an attorney and a private psychiatrist, though, leaves many people out. Davies is now an advocate for expanding AOT in Louisiana, she said, because she understands not all families have the money and ability to go at it on their own. She said her son recently told her: "'I do not ever want to get off my medication again. I don't want to lose everything I finally have back.'" This story was updated at 12:30 p.m. to include the Downtown Development District's funding for the pilot AOT program. ------- This story is part of "A Fragile State," a series by NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune's watchdog team examining Louisiana's broken mental health care system. Want to share your experiences in the system? Tell us your story here. Read more: Louisiana's mental health care system is broken. Here's how we got here. In March 2008, Irvin Mayfield, chairman of the New Orleans Public Library system's board of directors, introduced a 25-year, $650 million master plan for the city's libraries that included a plan to dedicate some branches to the celebration and preservation of our food and music culture. As Mayfield put it, he imagined those dedicated branches "aggressively and adamantly depict(ing) what New Orleans is about." If the ultimate goal of an education is to help people better understand and make sense of the environment in which they live, then perhaps it made some sense to have some New Orleans library branches celebrate those things that make New Orleans New Orleans. But Mayfield's announcement was made less than three years after Hurricane Katrina and the levee breaches had devastated a library system that was embarrassingly insufficient before the storm. That is, Mayfield announced his grand vision when the library system had far more basic concerns. As I put it then: "I'd be fine with a library system that aggressively and adamantly depicts the importance of reading, that shows that this community holds libraries in high regard and is willing to pay for them." Though the plan was to create an emphasis on jazz and cooking that would encourage more people to visit and support the library system, it appears that events unfolded in an opposite manner. Money meant for the library system was reportedly used to prop up Mayfield's New Orleans Jazz Orchestra. A new report from the Louisiana Legislative Auditor finds that money meant for the libraries helped the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra meet its payroll and -- even more disturbingly -- helped pay for very expensive meals that Mayfield enjoyed. A federal grand jury had already issued an indictment accusing Mayfield and his longtime friend and business partner Ronald Markham of improperly diverting money meant for the libraries to the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra. That indictment, among other things, accuses Mayfield of using money donated to the libraries to purchase for himself a 24-karat gold-plated trumpet. Given that there's already an indictment that accuses Mayfield and Markham of self-serving corruption, the legislative auditor's report reads a lot like lagniappe. If we've read the indictment, then we can't be surprised by the audit. Mayfield and Markham are scheduled to stand trial in federal court in April 2019, at which point jurors will be told to wait until they hear all the evidence before deciding if they're guilty. But the information the public has already seen gives us reason to be alarmed. The audit says that because the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra received "state and/or local assistance," it qualifies as a quasi-public agency. And when a quasi-public agency commingles public dollars with other funds, all of the quasi-public agency's funds shall be audited." The audit found that "NOJO commingled $2,570,000 of public funds with its other funds." According to the audit, in October 2012, NOJO visited New York where Mayfield spent more than $28,000, including $2,696 a night for lodging at the Ritz-Carlton, more than $3,000 for room service, $800 on spa services, and $530 for laundry. At month's end, NOJO's bank accounts were overdrawn by $436. On Nov. 1, according to the audit, there was a $100,000 wire transfer from the Library Foundation to NOJO, some of which was transferred into NOJO's payroll account. The attorneys representing Mayfield and Markham issued a statement describing the audit as "reckless, unsupported and contrary to known facts." The legislative auditor, they say, is trying to "play junior detective for the federal government." In their response to the auditors, both attorneys -- Sara A. Johnson for Markham and Claude J. Kelly for Mayfield -- say they can't respond because the auditor's office decided to give its documentation to the feds rather than let the accused clients see them. It doesn't seem likely that Mayfield and Markham would actually respond to the audit when anything they write back could be used against them in court, but it doesn't seem unreasonable for the subjects of a negative audit to be granted access to the evidence the auditor used to reach that conclusion. That being said, could it really be true that the audit is "unsupported?" Did auditors not look at bank records to figure out how NOJO spent the public money it received? Did federal prosecutors -- who presumably secured an indictment with the same or similar evidence -- also get things horribly, horribly wrong? Anything's possible, but bank records are easily searchable, and it would be shocking if either the legislative auditor, federal prosecutors or the grand jury misread them. It would be even more shocking if all of them misread them in a way that makes the two men look guilty of corruption. In 2009, in response to criticism that he had chased away people the library system needed to function well, Mayfield said, "Whenever someone in city government has the audacity to be great, people say, 'What's wrong with these guys?'" Now, looking at the indictment and audit, people are likely saying, "What's wrong with these guys? What audacity!" Jarvis DeBerry is a columnist on the Latitude team at NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. Latitude is a place to share opinions about the challenges facing Louisiana. Follow @LatitudeNOLA on Facebook and Twitter. Write Jarvis at jdeberry@nola.com or @jarvisdeberry. Former U.S. Rep. Billy Tauzin, a Republican from Chackbay, has made yet another transition in his life in politics and pharmaceuticals. He is now working as an advocate for marijuana legal changes with LenitivLabs, the medical cannabis company founded by TV host Montel Williams. Tauzin, who was diagnosed with a rare form of intestinal cancer in 2004 at the age of 60, told Reason.com that his experience in surviving the disease through surgery and treatment has something to do with his support for the use of cannabis in helping to relieve pain and nausea for cancer patients. "Cancer took 65 pounds off of me and beat the hell out of me," Tauzin told Reason's Nick Gillespie. "Now I'm watching patients use medical marijuana products to get through that a lot easier than I did, and I'm thinking, 'Wow, why didn't we have that opportunity 15 years ago?'" It's safe to say that Tauzin, who represented Louisiana's 3rd Congressional District as a Democrat 1980 to 1995 and then as a Republican from 1995 to 2005, would have been reluctant to support medical marijuana as an elected official from conservative Louisiana in those years. But that clearly has changed. The Louisiana Legislature has approved the use of medical marijuana in the state, and although the pace of implementation has been slowed, dispensaries are expected to be open early next year. Legalization of marijuana for recreational purposes is likely to take longer. Tauzin was interviewed after speaking to the Cannabis World Congress and Business Exposition in New York City in June. Gillespie asked Tauzin if all former congressmen would have to get cancer before "we're going to get medical marijuana or recreational marijuana?" "God, I hope not," Tauzin said. "I told the audience today that if Congress did a secret ballot, we'd win tomorrow easily." In addition to speaking from his own health experience, Tauzin also can provide insight as the former president and CEO of PhRMA, the preeminent and powerful pharmaceutical company lobbying group. Some medical marijuana advocates fear that the major drug companies oppose legalization of cannabis alternatives as a threat to their own patented products. Tauzin said that's not true. "The pharmaceutical industry is all about finding new medicines, and when it's legally possible for them to go to the [Food and Drug Administration] with medical marijuana products, they're going to be doing that," he told Gillespie. "They're probably going to come around to cannabis entrepreneurs who've pioneered these medicines, and they're going to want to talk to you about acquiring your companies one day. But I don't think they're going to fight it." These are high times for those seeking to loosen or repeal marijuana laws. President Donald Trump has said he would sign a bill returning marijuana laws and regulation to the states. Medical marijuana is already legal in at least 29 states. Nine others have legalized recreational marijuana. And as marijuana becomes big business, Tauzin isn't the only former Republican leader to announce a change of heart. John Boehner, who was the Republican speaker of the House from 2011 to 2015 announced on Twitter in April that he was reversing his long-held opposition against marijuana legalization, saying that "my thinking on cannabis has evolved." The tweet also noted that he had joined the board of advisers of Acreage Holdings, a cannabis corporation that operates in 11 states. Whatever the individual motivation of Tauzin and Boehner -- evolution or remuneration -- they do seem to be jumping on a bandwagon that is picking up momentum by the day. Gillespie asked Tauzin for a timeline to full legalization ... 10 years, 15 years? "I've learned something about the progress of mankind: Anytime you try to predict something, it's going to take longer than you think," Tauzin said. "But this is moving fast. The tide has turned. We're past the tipping point. Ain't no coming back. I think this is going to happen within five years." Did these Republicans see the light or see the green? Maybe both. Tim Morris is a columnist on the Latitude team at NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. Latitude is a place to share opinions about the challenges facing Louisiana. Follow @LatitudeNOLA on Facebook and Twitter. Write to Tim at tmorris@nola.com. The issue of clergy sex abuse is not included on the official agenda of a month-long meeting of Catholic bishops from around the world that began at the Vatican Wednesday (Oct. 3), an omission that drew criticism from some church leaders, CBS News reported. The synod, which aims to attract the young back to the church, brings together in Rome nearly 300 church leaders from almost 125 countries and is being held with the abuse issue looming large over the gathering, the network reported. Addressing bishops Wednesday morning, Pope Francis said youth should have a future free of the mistakes and sins of the past. Topics such video games, migration, LGBT issues, war, friendship, porn and corruption are on the docket for the synod, which seeks to address young people's "lack of harmony" with the church, the network reported. The pope has called for a three-day meeting of bishops in Rome in February to discuss the clergy sex abuse in the church. One person was injured escaping a house fire in the Willow Brook area of New Orleans East, firefighters said Wednesday morning (Oct. 3). According to the New Orleans Fire Department, a house fire was reported at 9:20 p.m. Tuesday in the 4800 block of Alcee Fortier Boulevard (map). Firefighters arrived five minutes later and found smoke coming from the roof of a one-story brick double. Everyone was already out of the house, but NOFD said a neighbor was injured while climbing over a fence to escape the fire. The neighbor was taken to a hospital to be treated. NOFD said firefighters contained the fire to the attic and had it under control at 10:40 p.m. Twenty-one NOFD personnel responded to the fire. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. --- Carlie Kollath Wells is a morning reporter at NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. Have an early-bird tip? Send it to her: cwells@nola.com or Twitter @carlie_kollath. A Patriot Guard rider died after crashing on his way to the funeral of a slain Brookhaven, Miss., police officer, WLBT-TV reported Wednesday (Oct. 3). Another member of the Patriot Guard group was airlifted to a Jackson, Miss., hospital, the report said. The two had come from Louisiana for the funeral when the crash happened on Interstate 55 near Bogue Chitto, the TV station reported. The names of the riders have not been released by authorities. A funeral was held Wednesday for Officer James White, one of two Brookhaven officers who were slain during an early morning confrontation on Saturday, the Jackson Clarion Ledger reported. Members of the Patriot Guard Riders attend funerals across the country to pay tribute to first responders and military veterans. Attending the 2018 Woman of the Year Luncheon from South Carolina are, seated: Past Department Presidents, Anne Parker, Judy Hennis, Murrells Inlet Unit 178, PDP Brenda Holland, Aiken Unit 212, and JR Vice President Pearl Mills Camden Unit 203. Standing are PDP Louise Winesett Irmo/St. Andrews Unit 174, President Pat Ward Greenville Unit 3, PDP Linda Smiley Unit 71 North Augusta, PDP Brenda Collins Greenville Unit 3, ALA Department of S.C. President Pat Jarvis, Unit 6 Columbia. North Augusta, SC (29841) Today Sunny skies. High near 65F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A mostly clear sky. Low 42F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Managing Editor Having lived and worked in Indy on and off since 1977, and currently living in Carmel, I've seen the city change a great deal. I love covering the arts in all its forms, and the places where the arts and broader cultural issues intersect. Central Bank of India had 7.67 per cent stake in IL&FS at the end of March 2018. State-owned Central Bank of India, one of the key shareholders of debt-ridden IL&FS Ltd, is unlikely to participate in the proposed Rs 4,500 crore rights issue of the company, according to sources. New Delhi: State-owned Central Bank of India, one of the key shareholders of debt-ridden IL&FS Ltd, is unlikely to participate in the proposed Rs 4,500 crore rights issue of the company, according to sources. Central Bank of India had 7.67 per cent stake in IL&FS at the end of March 2018. The bank is already saddled with huge non-performing assets and it has been dependent on capital support from the government, sources said. To meet regulatory capital norms, the government infused Rs 323 crore capital in the bank in the last fiscal. Besides, it is expected to get more during the current fiscal. Central Bank of India would have to shell out Rs 345 crore to maintain 7.67 per cent stake in IL&FS. IL&FS group is facing serious liquidity crisis and has defaulted on interest payment on various debt repayments since August 27. It has over Rs 91,000 crore in debt at the consolidated level. The company needs an immediate capital infusion of Rs 3,000 crore and is planning a Rs 4,500-crore rights issue. Financials of Central Bank of India are also not up to the par. For the first quarter ended June, 2018, the net loss widened by 74 per cent to Rs 1,522.54 crore due to a more than two-fold spike in provisions for bad loans. It had posted losses of Rs 5,105 crore for 2017-18. LIC is the largest shareholder in IL&FS with 25.34 per cent stake. Besides, Japan's Orix Corporation has 23.54 per cent stake in the company. Other shareholders include Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (12.5 per cent stake), IL&FS Employees Welfare Trust (12 per cent), HDFC (9.02 per cent) and SBI (6.42 per cent). In a rare move, the government superseded the board of IL&FS on Monday against the backdrop of debt defaults by some of its group entities that triggered fears of liquidity crunch. Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved higher minimum support price for Rabi crops. The cabinet has approved a Rs 105 per quintal hike in wheat MSP to Rs 1,840 for 2018-19 season, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh said. (Photo: File | PTI) New Delhi: The government on Wednesday announced 6 per cent hike in support price of wheat at Rs 1,840 per quintal, a move that will give farmers an additional income of Rs 62,635 crore and help contain their simmering discontent over high input cost and low sales realisation. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved higher minimum support price (MSP) for winter-sown or Rabi crops. The decision will help farmers earn an additional income of Rs 62,635 crore, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told reporters in Delhi after the meeting. The decision comes within months of announcing higher price for Kharif crops, when the government fulfilled its promise of giving farmers 50 per cent more price than their cost of production. The cabinet has approved a Rs 105 per quintal hike in wheat MSP to Rs 1,840 for 2018-19 season, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh said. The MSP of wheat was Rs 1,735 per quintal in the 2017-18 crop year. Radha Mohan Singh said the MSP for all Rabi crops is higher than the cost of production ranging from 50-112 per cent. As per the CCEA decision, the MSP of barley has been increased by Rs 30 per quintal to Rs 1,440 per quintal, while that of gram (Chana) by Rs 220 per quintal to Rs 4,620 per quintal. Masur's MSP has been raised by Rs 225 to Rs 4,275 per quintal, while the support price of rapeseed/mustard has been hiked by Rs 200 to Rs 4,200 per quintal. Safflower MSP has been increased by Rs 845 per quintal to Rs 4,945. The support price has been increased based on the recommendations of farm advisory body CACP (Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices) and is in line with the government's announcement to provide farmers a 50 per cent profit over the cost of production. What the heck? Ms. Craig remembered thinking. That was the first inkling we had that, hey, theres something to do with this company that we need to figure out. The trio began to talk to people familiar with the presidents father and his empire. Those people told them that the company was a middleman entity created by President Trump and his siblings essentially to move cash from Fred Trumps companies to his children. After All County bought various items for Fred Trumps buildings, like boilers and cleaning supplies, a secretary would bill the items to Fred Trumps buildings with a 20 to 50 percent markup. The siblings would then pocket the difference. In short, the siblings received millions in untaxed gifts from their father, skirting a 55 percent tax on gifts over a certain value that would have cut the total significantly. When we came to that realization, that was a big day for us, Mr. Buettner said. Over the next several months, the reporters would obtain tens of thousands of pages of documents, including more than 200 tax returns from Fred Trump, his companies and various Trump partnerships and trusts. (We have a virtual mountain of spreadsheets, Mr. Barstow said. We should have spreadsheets for our spreadsheets.) The trove included previously secret depositions, including one in which Robert Trump, the presidents brother, admitted that the family used the padded receipts from All County to justify higher rent increases for their tenants in rent-regulated apartments. This year, another breakthrough came when the team matched a boiler receipt from a personal injury lawsuit Mr. Buettner found that named All County a man was injured by the boiler in a Trump building to a boiler receipt they obtained via a FOIA request to New York City. They found two identical purchase-order numbers, with the bill from All County to Fred Trump marking up the boiler price by 20 percent. That's a rare moment of reporting serendipity, right? Mr. Buettner said. Two pieces of paper from two separate places that combined to tell you a bigger truth. It was like these two puzzle pieces came together one from the lawsuit and the other from the FOIA request, Ms. Craig said. We call it the Perry Mason moment. M.R.E. pizza, developed at an Army laboratory in Natick, Mass., is designed to remain fresh in storage for up to three years. Credit... Kayana Szymczak for The New York Times BSP chief terms police lathi-charge on agitating farmers the height of anarchy. Lucknow: Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Tuesday termed the police lathi-charge on agitating farmers the height of anarchy and warned that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party should be prepared to bear its consequences. Chaos prevailed at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border as thousands of protesting farmers attempting to enter the national capital were stopped by the police, who resorted to water cannons and tear-gas shells. Some reports suggested use of lathi-charge as well. Condemning the police action, Mayawati said, This is the height of the BJP governments anarchy and it shall remain prepared to bear its consequences. The BJP, which came to power promising to bring the good days of the farmers by doubling their income, has targeted them with tear-gas shells, lathis when they only wanted to march to the Gandhi sthal on Gandhi Jayanti and hold protest demonstration over their problems, the Dalit leader said. Stressing that every section of the society has been hit by the anti-poor and anti-farmer policies of the BJP-led Central and state governments, the BSP president said the farmers, particularly, were facing immense problems. Like the other announcements of the BJP governments, the one pertaining to the loan-waiver has also proved to be a mere eyewash, she added. Leading by example. Mostly. In the 2017 mayoral election, only one in five eligible voters cast a ballot, according to a report by the citys Campaign Finance Board. Ms. Fonseca-Sabune, a Democrat, was one of those voters; records show that she has voted in each of the November general elections going back to 2012. But she has skipped several primary elections. Records provided by the state and city Boards of Elections show that Ms. Fonseca-Sabune did not vote in the Sept. 12, 2017, primary, when Mr. de Blasio ran against little opposition for the Democratic Party nomination on his way to re-election. She skipped primaries in June 2016 (Congress) and September 2016 (State Assembly), and again in September 2014, including the primary for governor that year. In 2013, the records show, she voted in the citywide primary in September (which Mr. de Blasio won) and again in the Oct. 1 runoff for public advocate. And in April 2014, she voted in the presidential primary, when Hillary Clinton ran against Bernie Sanders for the Democratic nomination. I would say I know what its like to be a busy working parent who is trying to fit in voting with everything else going on, said Ms. Fonseca-Sabune, who has a son born in 2015. She said that she would have to consult her personal calendars to verify whether or not she voted in a given election, and suggested that her occasional failure to vote added to her qualifications for the job. Im the perfect person to do this work, she said, because I understand exactly what those challenges are. Why did Ms. Fonseca-Sabune get the job? The city profile for her job listing suggested that qualified applicants should be experienced in running high-profile campaigns. Others include a sincere commitment to equity and having experience building coalitions. Ms. Fonseca-Sabune, 36, who goes by Rini, was born in New York and grew up in New Jersey. Her mother is an immigrant from Guyana and her father is from Uganda. She graduated as an undergraduate from Harvard and then Harvard Law School and she also has a masters degree in teaching from Fordham University. She was a law clerk for two federal judges. I built what I built myself. This boast has long been at the core of the mythology of Donald Trump, Self-Made Billionaire. As the oft-told story goes, young Mr. Trump accepted a modest $1 million loan from his father, Fred, a moderately successful real estate developer from Queens, and through smarts, hard work and sheer force of will parlayed that loan into a multibillion-dollar global empire. Its a classic American tale of ambition and self-determination. Not Horatio Alger, exactly, but appealing, and impressive, nonetheless. Except that, like so much of what Mr. Trump has been selling the American public in recent years, this origin story was a sham a version of reality so elaborately embellished that it qualifies as fan fiction more than biography. Also, as weve come to expect from Mr. Trump, the creation of this myth involved a big dose of ethically sketchy, possibly even illegal activity. As an in-depth investigation by The Times has revealed, Mr. Trump is only self-made if you dont count the massive financial rewards he received from his fathers business beginning as a toddler. (By age 3, little Donald was reportedly pulling in an annual income of what today would be $200,000 a year.) These benefits included not only the usual perks of hailing from a rich, well-connected family the connections, the access to credit, the built-in safety net. For the Trumps, it also involved direct cash gifts and tens of millions in loans that never charged interest or had to be repaid. Fred Trump even purchased several properties and business ventures, putting ownership either fully or partly in the names of his children, who reaped the profits. Among some astronomers, there is a growing suspicion that our solar systems distant reaches conceal a large, ninth planet that we have not yet seen. New findings about a small ice world far beyond Pluto buttress this idea. On Monday, astronomers led by Scott S. Sheppard of the Carnegie Institution for Science in Washington revealed the orbital details of the world, which they have nicknamed the Goblin. Dr. Sheppard and his colleagues first spotted the world, which for now carries the official designation of 2015 TG387 as part of a systematic search three years ago for new worlds in the outer system, including the hypothesized Planet Nine. But only with additional observations did they realize how far out TG387 really is. It took us three years to figure out that it has an interesting orbit, Dr. Sheppard said. The astronomers have submitted a paper describing the discovery to The Astronomical Journal. [Sign up to get reminders for space and astronomy events on your calendar.] The world, estimated to have a width of a couple of hundred miles, is currently about 7.4 billion miles from the sun, or about 2.5 times farther away than Pluto. But that is near to the closest it ever gets to the sun. The artists have restored the exhibition space back to its former Victoriana glory, by adding purple votive candles, heavy chandeliers and geometric floral wallpaper from the 1880s. In addition to the hand-carved Wilde statue at the altar, the temple is complete with new stained-glass windows depicting sunflowers and green carnations (a nod to a key prop in Wildes play Lady Windermeres Fan). Paintings of archival newspaper cartoons of the authors trial are displayed to mimic the stations of the cross found in a traditional Catholic church. Image The artists Peter McGough (left) and David McDermott (right), who have worked together since the 1980s. Credit... Courtesy of the artists. The idea for the shrine came about more than 20 years ago. But the duos history goes back further; they were boyfriends and mainstays of the art scene in early 80s downtown New York. For many years, the pair lived together in a townhouse on Avenue C that had been stripped of electricity and heating. They would wander Alphabet City and beyond, dressed not entirely dissimilarly to Oscar Wilde, in polished top hats and three-piece suits. For this interview, McGough arrives alone, dressed in a corduroy suit and natty wool cravat. Asked if McDermott is in town too (he now lives in Ireland, having renounced his U.S. citizenship), McGough says, Oh, hes here! But he went off to see a young fellow who makes clothes from the 1820s. Proceeds from the London exhibition will go to the Albert Kennedy Trust, a charity that helps the L.G.B.T. homeless (almost a quarter of the young people living on the streets in the U.K. identify as L.G.B.T.). The present might be an improvement on what came before, but to stand among the assembled artworks is to be reminded that the past still haunts us. He knew how to stand up to the crowds mocking him, McGough says of Wilde as he looks up at the statue. He was the figure and the forefather of the gay revolution. The audit called for law enforcement officials to follow up on sex offender registration requirements and asked that the Missouri State Highway Patrol, which maintains the public registry data, do more to ensure the accuracy of the database that it is maintaining. The acting superintendent of the Highway Patrol responded to the critique in a lengthy letter that said the identified accuracy issues would be addressed in future training sessions. The audit also called for a revision in Missouri law that would require background checks for school volunteers to ensure those volunteers were not in the registry. Although the registry can become a tool for local law enforcement officials when a new offense happens, the larger the registry, the less often its going to be useful for those purposes, said Franklin Zimring, a law professor at the University of California, Berkeley, who has written about criminal violence, imprisonment and capital punishment. Federal law requires states to register sex offenders and to notify the public when a convicted sex offender moves into a community. But despite the laws good intentions, it has been criticized for invading the privacy of those who have already been punished, then continuing to punish them. Those who remain on the sex offender registry often have difficulty finding work or a place to live. In addition, the registry is limited in how it can help. In many cases the victims of sex crimes know the offenders. Often, and especially when it comes to child sexual abuse, perpetrators are friends and family. According to the Department of Justice, only about 10 percent of perpetrators of child sexual abuse are strangers to the child. Studies have shown low recidivism rates among sexual offenders. The Bureau of Justice Statistics released a study in 2003 that showed an estimated 3.3 percent of the 4,300 child molesters released in 1994 were rearrested for another sex crime against a child within three years. Most sex offenses are committed by people who are never going to be on the registry when they commit them because theyve never been on the sex offender registry before, said Ira Ellman, a retired law professor who now serves as a scholar at the Center for the Study of Law and Society at the University of California, Berkeley. WASHINGTON When Brett M. Kavanaugh was preparing for his second confirmation hearing for a seat on a federal appeals court in 2006, he got some unwelcome news. The American Bar Association, which had earlier given him its highest rating, had reconsidered. The revised rating, the group explained, was prompted by new concerns about Mr. Kavanaughs demeanor and veracity, foreshadowing some critiques of his testimony last week before the Senate Judiciary Committee in response to accusations of sexual misconduct. The bar associations new rating in 2006 qualified instead of well qualified was still quite positive. It meant, the committee explained, that Mr. Kavanaugh had met its very high standards with respect to integrity, professional competence and judicial temperament. The revised rating was a minor blemish on a glittering resume, and it was discounted by conservatives who viewed the bar association as a liberal interest group. The groups concerns did not prevent Mr. Kavanaugh from being confirmed that year to the United States Court of Appeals to the District of Columbia Circuit. And when he was nominated for the Supreme Court this summer, the bar association unanimously rated him well qualified, although Robert M. Carlson, the associations president, called last week for a thorough F.B.I. investigation before a Senate vote. WASHINGTON The nomination of Judge Brett M. Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court has exposed just how far the Senate has drifted from the rules of decorum that once elevated senatorial prerogative over party, leaving behind the kind of smash-mouth partisan politics that have long dominated the unruly House. Senate rules dating back to Thomas Jefferson mandate that lawmakers refer to each other by state and title my good friend, the senator from California and forbid members from questioning motives, maligning a home state or imputing to another senator or to other senators any conduct or motive unworthy or unbecoming a senator. Senators are not even supposed to read a newspaper while another member of the body is speaking on the chamber floor. Few of such niceties have been in evidence as the Senate struggles to fill the Supreme Court seat of the retired Justice Anthony M. Kennedy. Republicans have accused Democrats on the Judiciary Committee of plotting a last-minute smear of Judge Kavanaugh, and have privately argued that the partys senators demeaned themselves and the body by asking a nominee to the Supreme Court intimate questions about his drinking habits and sexual behavior. With only circumstantial evidence, Senator Tom Cotton, Republican of Arkansas, called for an investigation into whether Senator Dianne Feinstein of California, the committees ranking Democrat, sat on and then leaked Christine Blasey Fords letter accusing Judge Kavanaugh of sexual assault. Senator Lindsey Graham, Republican of South Carolina, has delivered an escalating series of threats to his Democratic counterparts. Outside Europe, the European Union has courted authoritarian governments in Turkey, Sudan and Egypt, while Italy has negotiated with warlords in Libya, in a successful effort to stem the flow of migrants toward the Mediterranean. Inside Europe itself, those who still make it to the Greek islands about 23,000 have arrived this year, down from 850,000 in 2015 must now stay at camps like Moria until their cases are settled. It can take as long as two years before the asylum seekers are either sent home or move on. I have been in some pretty horrendous camps and situations, said Louise Roland-Gosselin, who is head of mission in Greece for Doctors Without Borders and spent five years in crisis zones in Congo and South Sudan. I have to say that Moria is the camp in which Ive seen the highest level of suffering. The groups lead psychiatrist on Lesbos, Alessandro Barberio, said he had never seen such overwhelming numbers of severe mental health cases. Of the roughly 120 people his team has the capacity to treat, the vast majority have been prescribed anti-psychotic medication. Moria has become a trigger for an acute expression of psychosis and post-traumatic stress disorder, Dr. Barberio said. Answering questions at NATO headquarters, Ms. Hutchison suggested that the United States was getting ready to document Russian violations of the treaty based on new information we have uncovered. We are asking our allies for their suggestions on a way forward that would bring Russia into compliance, because that is our goal: Russia in compliance, she said, comments that echoed past statements in the Obama and Trump administrations. But Ms. Hutchison also warned that if Russia did not change course, the United States might field its own weapons, which would require going ahead with a development phase that is not allowed by the treaty right now. Then she was asked to be more specific about what kind of countermeasures you are considering. Ms. Hutchison then uttered the words that the State Department spent most of Tuesday walking back. The countermeasures would be to take out the missiles that are in development by Russia in violation of the treaty, she said. So that would be the countermeasure eventually. Pressed further, Ms. Hutchison said her first choice was to get the Russian missiles withdrawn, adding that if the Russians did not relent we would then be looking at a capability to take out a missile that could hit any of our countries in Europe and hit America in Alaska. That last statement seemed to suggest an upgrade to missile defenses. But it is not clear that current missile defense technology could protect against medium-range missile attacks, and Russia like the United States is working on other missiles, called hypersonics, that do not follow a clear path to a target. Those may, in time, overshadow the missiles that are now part of the I.N.F. treaty debate. The companys public soul-searching reached its apogee at Lincoln Center last week at the companys fall gala, its most important and glittery fund-raiser of the year. When the curtain rose, the companys dancers were standing on the stage, with an extraordinary message for the packed house. With the world changing and our beloved institution in the spotlight we continue to hold ourselves to the high moral standards that were instilled in us when we decided to become professional dancers, Teresa Reichlen, a principal dancer, said as she read a statement that she had written with another dancer, Adrian Danchig-Waring, on behalf of the company. We strongly believe that a culture of equal respect for all can exist in our industry, she continued. We will not put art before common decency, or allow talent to sway our moral compass. Over the past year, revelations about mistreatment and brutish behavior have rocked the world of dance, a discipline that demands both close physical contact and grueling exactitude. Accusations of sexual and verbal harassment at the Paris Opera Ballet surfaced in the spring. The artistic director of the Finnish National Ballet was relieved of his managerial duties after he was accused of making inappropriate remarks to women about their appearance or private lives. (He apologized.) An open letter from several women alleging sexual harassment by the renowned artist and choreographer Jan Fabre has led to government investigations in Belgium. (Mr. Fabre has denied the accusations.) For New York City Ballet, this has been among the most difficult periods in its history. Company officials said that they do not believe the problems have significantly cut into fund-raising; the fall gala raised $2.3 million, down from last years $2.6 million, a decline attributed to other factors. But the abrupt departure of Mr. Martins who denied wrongdoing and had led the company since before most of its current dancers were born divided the company, especially after City Ballet said its investigation had not corroborated the accusations against him. Police must not hesitate in taking action against people who have been violating liquor prohibition rules. Patna: Rats have been blamed again for nibbling liquor bottle lids and guzzling alcohol in dry Bihar. Officials said that around seven cartons of seized liquor were found destroyed in a warehouse located in Kaimur district. Speaking to reporters on the issue a local administrative officer Kalpana Kumar said, prima facie it seems that rats have been creating havoc inside the warehouse where liquor bottles and beer cans seized during raids were kept. As per an assessment over 11,000 units of liquor bottles seized during raids in last two years were kept inside the police storeroom. Officials said, These bottles were to be destroyed but before we could initiate the process we found beer cans and liquor bottles with holes and bite marks on them. According to Excise and Prohibition department data, over 16 Lakh litres of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) and nine Lakh litres of country-made liquor have been seized during raids in the past two and half years. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar while chairing a high-level meeting on September 15 had directed the officials to destroy seized stocks of liquor and also ordered action against police personnel who have been violating prohibition law in Bihar. In a similar incident last year Patna police had blamed rodents after several thousand litres of alcohol were found missing from storerooms. The report of rats consuming liquor had prompted Bihar CM to order an internal probe to find out the truth. A total ban on liquor was imposed in April 2016. In July this year, the state legislature had unanimously passed the amendments to the liquor prohibition bill deleting some of the stringent act and making it less harsh on violators. Liquor prohibition was the first major announcement by Nitish Kumar after he was sworn in as Chief Minister in 2015 following an emphatic victory. On Tuesday while addressing a gathering in Patna on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti Mr. Kumar said that liquor prohibition has brought positive changes in the state. He also asked administration officials who were present during the event to initiate stern action against all those who have been violating prohibition rules. Dont hesitate in taking action against people who have been violating prohibition rules. A regular drive must be launched across the state to create awareness about the ill-effects of liquor consumption, dowry and child marriage Mr Kumar said. A cafe and art gallery that opened earlier this year as MoMaCha must change its name, logo and website at least temporarily in the latest chapter of a legal battle over the cafes name, which the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) said infringed on and diluted its trademark. Its now going by MAMACHA but even the new name might not be enough. A preliminary injunction ordered the cafe to stop using, displaying or promoting the MOMA or MOMACHA marks, and the https://momacha.com/ domain name. Judge Louis L. Stanton of United States District Court for the Southern District of New York issued the decision last week. The shop, on the Bowery, opened in April with a logo similar to the museums, and MoMA filed suit that month. (The museum logo uses a proprietary font, MoMA Gothic.) In his ruling, Judge Stanton wrote, Without a preliminary injunction against MOMACHA, the Museum will suffer irreparable and unquantifiable harm to its reputation and good will, and that the Museum has sufficiently demonstrated serious questions on the merits to make them fair grounds for litigation. For the past 11 years, Free Richardson has run The Compound, his creative advertising business, from a compact space off Bruckner Boulevard in the South Bronx, where he works on campaigns for Timberland, ESPN and EA Sports. Part agency, part clubhouse, The Compound refers to the physical footprint, a bunkerlike space where Mr. Richardson hosts clients, professional athletes and hip-hop artists who come to use its recording booth, kibitz or admire Mr. Richardsons collection of KAWS figurines, hip-hop ephemera and N.B.A. memorabilia. But the name also signifies Mr. Richardsons governing ethos: that combining creative disciplines usually yields something interesting. Everyone who would come over would say, Yo, this is like your own art museum, Mr. Richardson said. So I said, O.K. It was always in the back of my head but it was like, when is the time right to do it? The other important change was the introduction of community licenses, which were first issued in 2005 to counter the influence of pirates, and which allow stations to broadcast legally within small radiuses. Sarah Lockhart, the chief executive and co-founder of Rinse FM, liked the rooftop views that came with being a pirate. But that was the only fun part of being a criminal, she said in an interview at the spotless (though gently pot-scented) East London studio that Rinse FM now occupies. Before it went legal in 2010, Rinse was one of Britains most notable pirate stations, transmitting grime, dubstep, and other underground genres. Ms. Lockhart said she hated it. You couldnt have a party, you couldnt do a sponsorship, she said. You can get arrested. You can go to jail. So when she heard that the communications regulator might be open to pirates transitioning to become legal stations, she jumped on the opportunity. It took her five years to win one of the few community FM spots. Now that Rinse is a licensed station, the contrast with Kool, a former competitor, is stark. Kool operates out of a grim warehouse with flickering bulbs and patchy black paint, but Rinse has leather couches, its own record label, and corporate partners like Smirnoff. At the same time, Rinse and its contemporaries are hoping to do what the pirates did best: give young people without money or connections space to make new kinds of music. Much of the memoir wrestles with what it means to lay claim to Germany. Youll see ruins. Youll see flowers. Youll see some mighty pretty scenery. DONT LET IT FOOL YOU. You are in enemy country, Krug quotes from a 1945 United States War Department training film titled Your Job in Germany, scripted by Theodor Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss. It warned American soldiers stationed in postwar Germany to maintain vigilance until the nation showed signs of being cured. Image Nora Krug Credit... Nina Subin Some Germans adopted the same habit of vigilance. Hitlers speeches were analyzed in schools alliteration by alliteration, tautology by tautology, neologism by neologism, Krug writes to unpack how the German language was potentially dangerous. Krug grew up without knowing the words of her home countrys national anthem, and first touched a German flag as an adult living in America. Even then, she could not bear to wave it. For all her shame and self-scrutiny, Krug becomes aware that Germans confront their history selectively. Her upbringing was full of odd evasions. Growing up, she listened to talks given by American survivors, but would never have thought to discuss the concentration camps with her relatives. She was never taught about the tens of thousands of Germans killed for resisting the Nazis, possibly because it would have made our grandparents who didnt resist look guiltier in comparison. Nor was modern Jewish life or culture mentioned in schools. As a very young child, Krug assumed that Jewish people didnt exist outside of the Bible. They seemed distant like a long extinct species. Explore the New York Times Book Review Want to keep up with the latest and greatest in books? This is a good place to start. Learn what you should be reading this fall: Our collection of reviews on books coming out this season includes biographies, novels, memoirs and more. See whats new in October: Among this months new titles are novels by Jonathan Franzen, a history of Black cinema and a biography by Katie Couric. Nominate a book: The New York Times Book Review has just turned 125. That got us wondering: What is the best book that was published during that time? Listen to our podcast: Featuring conversations with leading figures in the literary world, from Colson Whitehead to Leila Slimani, the Book Review Podcast helps you delve deeper into your favorite books. Krug slashes through a fog of shame, amnesia, determined oblivion and misdirection to trace the lives of two men: her fathers brother, an SS soldier killed in his teens, and her maternal grandfather, who worked as a chauffeur to a Jewish linen salesman and later joined the Nazi party. What made these men? she asks. What did they believe? What did they do? She is a tenacious investigator, ferreting out stories from the wispiest hints a rumor or a mysterious photograph. Also last month, Qiu Xiaoping, a vice minister of human resources and social security, urged democratic management of private enterprises, saying that they should be jointly run by business owners and their employees. Some of the governments efforts stem from necessity. Beijing must find ways to pay for increasing ambitious social programs like universal health care. It is also trying to curb problems caused by business run amok, like pollution and poor treatment of workers, as well as years of companies dodging taxes. But entrepreneurs say the pace of change in Chinese taxes already among the worlds highest gives them little time to prepare. For example, next year China will step up efforts to collect social-benefit payments and shift the way they are calculated, resulting in higher costs. Stricter social security tax collections could erode Chinas corporate profits by 2.5 percent, according to Lu Ting, an economist at Nomura Securities in Hong Kong. That could particularly hurt smaller companies, which tend to be privately owned and often have thin profit margins. Chinese officials have promised to cut overall taxes, but the details have been scant. Beijings efforts to wean the economy from its dependence on borrowing have made it harder and more expensive for many private businesses to get money. At the same time, the state-owned enterprises have little problem getting new loans. Even Li Keqiang, Chinas premier, recently acknowledged what he called the hidden line between public and private access to bank loans. Some struggling entrepreneurs are doing what was once considered unthinkable: selling out to the state. So far this year, 46 private companies have agreed to sell shares to state-controlled firms, with more than half selling controlling stakes, according to the Shanghai Securities News, an official government newspaper. While the number is small considering the vast Chinese economy, it reverses a two-decade trend of state companies selling shares to private entrepreneurs. Get the DealBook newsletter to make sense of major business and policy headlines and the power-brokers who shape them. __________ DealBooks one thing to watch today Aston Martin, the carmaker beloved by James Bond, began trading on the London Stock Exchange on Wednesday. The debut started poorly. Its stock fell below its initial public offering price of 19 a share. Back story: Aston Martin has struggled during its century-long history, filing for bankruptcy seven times. But the luxury automaker has recently overhauled its car lineup in an attempt to broaden its appeal. Sales are expected to be between 6,200 and 6,400 vehicles this year. It filed to go public in August. The news: Ahead of its I.P.O., Aston Martin officially Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings expected to price its shares between 17.50 and 22.50. On Monday, it cut the top end of that range to 20 a share, and ended up pricing just below that at 19. But its stock has fallen in its debut and was trading at 17.65 a share as of midday London time on Wednesday. The legislation was already approved by the House last month, and the Senate passed it on Wednesday by a vote of 93 to 6. The F.A.A. has been operating without long-term authorization since 2017. Congress has granted a series of temporary extensions for the last year. A real five-year bill is vastly, vastly more stable than a series of extensions, Mr. Engel said. It removes quite a bit of uncertainty about the shape of the law for the next five years. He added, As long as youre in that series of extensions, important projects get put on hold. The airlines trade group, Airlines for America, also noted that the five-year reauthorization provides long-term certainty for the industry. As to any added protections for travelers, Mr. Engel said: The things in the bill that look like wins for consumers are really just for show. What are the so-called consumer protections in the bill? They are: You cant talk on your cellphone. You cant do that anyway. You cant put your dog in the overhead. Thats not a daily problem. One section of the bill bars airlines from forcibly removing seated passengers if the flight is overbooked. But traveler advocates said that was a continuation of the status quo. The provision that you cant be bumped once youre on an airplane has been the custom since the Dr. Dao incident, but now its the law, said Paul Hudson, president of Flyers Rights, a passenger advocacy group. He was referring to a situation in April 2017 when David Dao, a pulmonologist, was injured while being forcibly removed from an overbooked United Airlines flight, even though he had bought a ticket for the flight. Connie Chung, the longtime television news anchor, said on Wednesday that she was sexually assaulted about 50 years ago, lending yet another high-profile voice of support to Christine Blasey Ford. In an opinion piece in The Washington Post, written as a letter to Dr. Blasey, Ms. Chung said that she was in college when she was assaulted by the very physician who delivered her in 1946. I, too, was sexually assaulted not 36 years ago but about 50 years ago, Ms. Chung, who has worked for all three major broadcast news networks, CNN and MSNBC, wrote. I have kept my dirty little secret to myself. Silence for five decades. In the piece, Ms. Chung said that she was still a virgin at the time and had visited the doctor, whom she did not name, to inquire about contraception. He assaulted her during a gynecological examination, she said. Pret A Manger, the British sandwich chain that has become a mainstay of office lunches with the promise of freshly prepared food, will be adding information about allergens in its food after the death of a girl who ate a sandwich containing sesame seeds, an ingredient she was allergic to. In a statement on Wednesday, the company said it would start affixing ingredient labels to its packaging in November. Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, a 15-year-old girl with a sesame allergy, had picked up an artichoke, olive and tapenade baguette at Londons Heathrow Airport in 2016, thinking that it would be fine to eat because it carried no mention of sesame seeds. But sesame seeds were baked into the dough. During her flight, she collapsed from cardiac arrest and was dead within two hours. At an inquest last month, a British court determined that the labeling on the sandwich had been inadequate. There was no specific allergen information on the baguette packaging or on the food display cabinet, and Natasha was reassured by that, the coroner, Sean Cummings, said. Backed by one of the nations biggest unions, nine teachers filed a lawsuit on Wednesday accusing the student loan servicer Navient of negligently blocking their access to a troubled federal loan forgiveness program for public service workers, adding thousands of extra dollars to their debts. The lawsuit, which is seeking to become a class action, was filed less than a week after a government audit report detailed extensive problems with the loan forgiveness program. In the year since the Education Department began accepting loan discharge applications, it has rejected more than 99 percent of them. Nearly 28,000 sought relief, but only 96 borrowers received it, according to the audit. To qualify, borrowers must work for government or certain nonprofit employers for at least 10 years, have the right kind of federal loan (a direct loan) and have made 120 monthly payments on it through a specific type of payment plan. Servicers like Navient are supposed to guide people through all of those hoops. Instead, Navient gave inaccurate information to borrowers who sought help joining the program, and discouraged them from taking steps necessary to qualify, according to the lawsuit, which was filed in federal court in Manhattan. Guterres said that to keep population in such 'discriminatory situation' is 'an invitation for terrorist groups' to exploit the situation. Guterres recalled his visit to the country as the High Commissioner for Refugees, during which he said the president of Myanmar asked him to resettle Rohingya in some other countries. (Photo: File) New Delhi: Asserting that those involved in violence against the Rohingya community should be held accountable, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday said India can help in the crisis by supporting Bangladesh in humanitarian assistance and using its influence with Myanmar to bring about reconciliation. He also said that to keep a population in such a "discriminatory situation" is "an invitation for terrorist groups" to exploit the situation. The top UN official said India "is an absolutely essential component" of a future multi-polar world and that the country can also play a role of an "honest broker" in some of the on-going conflicts in the world. In response to a question on the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT), proposed by India in 1996, he said the reason for the delay has been due to non-agreement on the definition of terrorism by countries. After attacks by the Myanmar security forces, Rohingya, an ethnic minority in Myanmar that mostly resides in regions bordering Bangladesh, have fled the country. According to the United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, over seven lakh people have fled Myanmar, and majority of them reside in Bangladesh. India has over 40,000 refugees scattered across the country. "I have never seen a community so discriminated in the world as Rohingyas," Guterres, who arrived on Monday on his maiden visit to India, said in response to a question on the issue. He was delivering a lecture on 'Global Challenges, Global Solutions' here. He said the Rohingya don't have access to health and education and there was deep rooted feeling of racism against them within the Myanmarese society. Guterres recalled his visit to the country as the High Commissioner for Refugees, during which he said the president of Myanmar asked him to resettle Rohingya in some other countries. "To make them refugees is not my role. My role is to solve the problem of refugees. This shows how deeply rooted is the negative perception of the Rohingyas. This was intensified by some hate speech by some monks on social media. There are over one million people in Bangladesh. They were people burnt, raped. Even if there was a provocation, the reaction of the armed forces was brutal," he alleged. Guterres stressed on political reconciliation so that the Rohingya could go back to their country. "What can India do? Support Bangladesh in helping these people because there is a huge humanitarian problem. Second, to pressure on Myanmar, the military in Myanmar for reconciliation and create conditions for these people to go back. These people will not go back in present circumstances," he said. "There should be accountability to those crimes," he said on the treatment meted out to Rohingya adding "to keep a population in such a discriminatory situation is an invitation for terrorist groups" to exploit the situation. In May, during the visit of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to Myanmar, India had offered to help in safe, speedy and sustainable return of Rohingya people. India has also been helping Bangladesh in providing humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees. Responding to a question on why the CCIT could not be adopted, Guterres said there is no agreement on definition of terrorism and there were several complexities involved in it. "The problem of definition of terrorism is (due to) several complexities. There are number of things which are complicated to have a common definition of terrorism. We have never managed to have it and we have never managed to have a true convention because of the definition," he said. Guterres said India has been in the frontline of supporting CCIT and the UN fully supports India in this regard. To a question on the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights report on alleged human rights abuses in Jammu and Kashmir, which was rejected by India, he said the reports are not endorsed by the secretary general. "I don't discuss reports about human rights commissioner. They have independence. The countries can agree or disagree with the reports. Their reports are not endorsed by the secretary general. The reports are done in a strictly independent way." He said as a principle, he does not make any comment on reports of both the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and High Commissioner for Refuges. Responding to another question on communalism and religious fundamentalism, he said he "does not think India is in the worst situation" at all. "I have always seen India as a country with extreme diversity. Of course, there are forms of extremism as any other parts of the world. I don't think that is the major problem that you face," he said. Guterres said poverty and inequality are two major problems faced by the Indian society. India can also play a role of an "honest broker" in some of the on-going conflicts in the world, he said, adding, "We need people and countries that all sides can respect. India does not have any specific agenda in many of these areas." The secretary general also noted that never in the recent times was multilateralism and rules based international order under so much of fire, citing the trade wars. He said it is necessary to create factors of equilibrium and no country was better than India because of its dimensions, its technological and innovation capacity and of its Geo-strategic location. "India is an absolutely essential component of our future multi-polar world," he said. PARIS Call it the most exciting fashion auction that wasnt. On Wednesday, the day after the Chanel and Louis Vuitton womens wear shows brought the spring 2019 ready-to-wear season to an end, a sale had been scheduled for a private collection of embroideries from the historic houses of Lesage and Michonet said to be the largest such collection ever available to the public. In the weeks before the event, Alix Laurent-Bellue, the curator in charge of the sale for the auction house Leclere, said she had never fielded so many phone calls. People in the business, she added, were astonished by what was going on the block. PARIS Where Gucci goes, many brands follow. Not just in terms of fur-lined slides but literally. When the Italian brand decided to swap its pole position in Milan Fashion Week for a show in Paris this season, lo! So did all sorts of its compatriots. Tods threw a breakfast at the Ritz to celebrate its inaugural Tods Factory project, a new platform that will allow the label to produce multiple capsule collections per year with different creative partners, from designers to artists. The first collaboration was with Alessandro DellAcqua, creative director of the Parisian luxury house Rochas and the founder of the contemporary line No. 21, who introduced the model Edie Campbell as his campaign muse, and nude loafer kitten heels with the Tods signature pebble sole as well as black PVC flats with velvet overlays as part of his collection. In the morning, they exchanged business cards. He thought it was the right thing to do, even though he wasnt really interested, Ms. Tyson said. I was polite, but I wasnt trying to hang out again. We just kept emailing back and forth for some reason, and ended up going out to dinner. Soon after their first date, Ms. Tyson moved to Colorado. Long-distance correspondence continued until the two held a joint birthday party in New York and made the relationship official. Fourteen months after their initial meeting, they moved in together into the same Harlem apartment where they were introduced. Five years of dating culminated in an engagement on Christmas Eve 2016. We were just trying to focus on ourselves. Ms. Tyson said of the couples courtship. That was part of why we ended up together: because we werent trying to be together. Their wedding took place June 23. Obstacles aside, many people find love this way. In 2015, the dating app Match polled around 5,500 single adults in the United States. Its Singles in America study revealed 25 percent of participants turned one-night stands into relationships. Yet, theres still a negative connotation attached to this experience. You have that immediate association of it being cheap, linked with infidelity, associated with having a lack of interest or seeking commitment from someone, said Rachel MacLynn, the founder and chief executive of the Vida Consultancy, a matchmaking service in 16 cities, including London, Hong Kong, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Last week, the photographer Erin Schaff received a high-profile assignment from her editor at The New York Times: to shoot the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in which Christine Blasey Ford would testify that the Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh had sexually assaulted her when they were in high school. Judge Kavanaugh would also testify, emphatically denying the allegation. The night before the hearings, a photographer with The Associated Press told Ms. Schaff, This is going to be the biggest thing youve ever shot. She was ready for the challenge. Ms. Schaff, a freelance photographer, regularly covers Capitol Hill for The Times and has photographed dozens of hearings in the very room where the Kavanaugh hearing was to take place. There is no other assignment that I could be better prepared for, because this is literally what I do every day, she said. On Thursday, the day of the hearing, Ms. Schaff woke up early and took a moment to reflect on the magnitude of the day. When she arrived at the Capitol, Melina Mara, a staff photographer for The Washington Post, saw her and hugged her. I thought I was going to be the only woman covering it, Ms. Mara said, according to Ms. Schaff. Ms. Schaff knows that feeling; shes used to being the only woman in the room, too. A 2016 World Press Photo report on the state of the industry found that just 15 percent of photojournalists surveyed were women. Additionally, the number of front-page lead photos taken by women falls well below 25 percent for most major news organizations, hovering in the single digits for some publications. In 2017, 11 percent of front-page lead photos for The New York Times were by female photographers, although that number has risen in 2018, according to data from Women Photograph, an organization that works to promote the work of female photographers. Do you see yourself in the things you read? What about the problems and issues you and your community deal with, or the joys and successes you experience? Have you ever gotten a new perspective on a problem or issue in your life with the help of a book? When? Two recent New York Times articles take on novels for young adults that help make sense of problems in our world. In A Graphic Novel Aimed at Young Adults Takes a Personal Look at the Opioid Crisis, George Gene Gustines writes about the popular author-illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczkas latest book, a graphic memoir that deals with drug addiction and is very relevant today amid the opioid epidemic plaguing the country: Hey, Kiddo, which arrives in stores on Oct. 9, is about being raised by his grandparents in Worcester, Mass., because Mr. Krosoczka (pronounced crow-sauce-KAH) did not know his father, and his mother was battling a heroin addiction that eventually claimed her life. It is a story that the author has seen resonate with audiences at schools around the country. There are so many kids out there whose parents do terrible things, he said during a telephone interview while on a family vacation away from their home in western Massachusetts. Its important for kids to know that it doesnt make them a bad person. While critical reaction has been favorable Hey, Kiddo is on the National Book Awards Longlist for young adult literature being embraced by the general public is not guaranteed. Just two years ago, when The Seventh Wish, a middle-school novel by Kate Messner about a family dealing with addiction, came out, the author found herself disinvited from speaking at a school in Vermont. They decided the book might raise questions they were not prepared to talk about, Ms. Messner recalled recently. I was devastated. I knew that school was in a district where families had been hit hard by the opioid epidemic. It was a school where many kids might have seen themselves in that story. Since then, the tide has turned and she has seen a rise in requests to speak at schools and community events. We only have to look at the statistics to know how many families are affected by the opioid epidemic, she said. The chance to have a dialogue is important. You cant solve a problem that no one is talking about. And in Using Young Adult Novels to Make Sense of #MeToo, Julia Jacobs writes about books that address consent and sexual violence: As the country continues to respond to the #MeToo movement, teachers and librarians are turning to fiction to help teenagers understand emotional trauma and make sense of this cultural reckoning. Kami Garcia, an author and former teacher from Annapolis, Md., wrote a novel called Broken Beautiful Hearts, which tells a story about relationship violence that parallels her own experience as a teenager. Ms. Garcia, 46, said that when she was 17, she broke up with her boyfriend over his use of steroids and, in response, he pushed her through a screen door. For two years after that, he stalked her, she said. In Ms. Garcias novel, released this year, the 17-year-old protagonist, Peyton Rios, is pushed down the stairs by her ex-boyfriend. But the difference is that the fictional character tells her mother about the abuse. Ms. Garcia said she didnt tell any adults. I wanted to rewrite history and do all the things I wish I would have done, she said. On visits to schools to discuss the book, Ms. Garcia asked students to raise their hands if they knew someone who had experienced dating violence or had been sexually harassed or assaulted. At most schools, nearly every girl in the audience raised her hand, Ms. Garcia said. Novels can provide a safe place to explore ideas about consent and speaking out after abuse because young readers can inhabit the experience of a fictional character rather than face their own trauma head-on, said Amy Reed, an author from Asheville, N.C. Students, read one of the above articles in its entirety, then tell us: How do you learn how to deal with issues and problems in your life, or in the world at large? Do you read news articles and opinion pieces? Watch videos, view photos or listen to podcasts? Talk to friends, family members and teachers? Follow or interact with others on social media? Something else? What seems to work best in helping you understand the news today? Why do you think that is? Have you read any fiction or graphic novels that have helped you make sense of things going on in the world today? If so, what did you read and what issues did they help you better understand? What can you learn about the world from a novel, short story, comic book or graphic novel that might be more difficult to grasp from, say, a news article? Do you think novels that deal with especially sensitive or uncomfortable topics like drug use and sexual violence belong in schools? Should these books be part of the high school curriculum? Why or why not? In your opinion, are there any subjects that should be off limits in books written for teenagers? Why or why not? Laurie Halse Anderson, the author of Speak, said, It finally dawned on me that adults have a responsibility to be honest with kids about what they are facing every day. Do you agree with this statement? Do you feel that the adults in your life are transparent and truthful about the things that are happening in the world around you? Why or why not? Over the years, iPhones have become more aware of the world around them, laden with new sensors and microphones and cameras. The Apple Watch is becoming, with each generation, better at sensing whats going on with, and inside, its wearers bodies. Apple boasts that its latest model introduces a functioning electrocardiogram, or EKG, widening the scope of the devices body monitoring well beyond elective physical activities or passive quantification and into active diagnosis. (The function wont be available until later this year.) The Apple Watch can warn when a wearers heart rate has dipped too low, or jumped too high; the Series 4 can ask, when it senses an abrupt movement, if you might have fallen, offering to call an ambulance. For now, this impressive facility for collecting and organizing information about you is just that its a great deal of data with not many places to go. This is sensitive information, of course, and Apples relative commitment to privacy at least compared with advertising-centric companies like Google and Facebook might be enough to get new users strapped in and recording. As Apple continues its institutional struggle to conceive of what the Apple Watch is, or could be, in the imaginations of its customers, its worth remembering that Apples stated commitment to privacy is, in practice, narrow. The competitors that Cook likes to prod about their data-exploitative business models have a necessary and complicit partner in his company, having found many of their customers though Apples devices and software. This is especially relevant as Apple casts about for ideas elsewhere. Apple has already met with the insurance giant Aetna about ways in which the company might use Apple Watches to encourage healthier and cheaper behavior in its tens of millions of customers. John Hancock, one of the largest life insurers in America, said after Apples latest announcement that it would offer all its customers the option of an interactive policy, in which customers would get discounts for healthy habits, as evidenced by data from wearable devices. Here we see the vague outlines of how the Apple Watch could become vital, or at least ubiquitous, as the handmaiden to another data-hungry industry. There may be many other ways, still, that the Apple Watch can fulfill its presumed destiny as the next device that we suddenly cant remember a world without. It would be out of character for Apple to admit that the iPhone, its biggest success, was in reality a triumph of mass-market research, and to announce its intentions to do it all again, letting others figure out the real value of its device or, more specifically, the value of the user data it could provide. Apple is left still guessing, with more persistence than confidence, what customers might not yet know they want. Meanwhile, the market is watching, and coming up with its own answers. When I was 13, my parents moved to Yerevan, Armenia, and lived there for two years. Armenia was one of five Foreign Service postings my parents had during my peripatetic childhood, and for me it was a vast territory of teenage resentment, a place of exile where my first boyfriend and my BMG music subscription couldnt follow. What memories I have are flimsy and vague and colored by adolescent angst. I remember buying a bootleg Pink Floyd CD and lying sulkily on my bed to listen. I remember the breathtaking speed and depth of the escalators down to the metro, built in the Soviet era. I remember the milky waters of Lake Sevan; I remember the green hills, dotted with sheep and mist. Two decades later, Im startled to find myself yearning for Yerevan. Its an impossible yearning; I have two small children and neither the budget nor the time to fly us across the world just to stand on a street corner and feel something. Idly, I looked on YouTube and was astonished to find I could watch the same streets, ride the same tram, see the same cars and people and a rainy gray sky, as I did in 1997. I was mesmerized for 13 minutes. I noted that the video has more than 17,000 views. Nostalgia, read two of the comments in English. Nostalgias status as a painful pleasure is now a cliche, but knowing this doesnt prevent me from seeking it everywhere. Where else and when else could I go on YouTube? I watched a grainy Fourth of July in my mothers hometown in rural California. I watched scenes from Israel, country of my birth, which I left before lasting memories could form. I found the channel of a Canadian, now deceased, who has hundreds of videos of trips he took in the 1990s. I watched his long segments on Athens another place I used to live his humdrum narration in a soothing Canadian accent bringing forth the exquisite pain of return. He has a 23-minute video of Istanbul on a gray day in 1993, first on foot and then through a tram window. The top comment is in Turkish and captures something essential about the pain and beauty of YouTube travel: I dont see a single phone in peoples hands while walking on the street. Not a single fool with their head bowed, not looking where theyre going. Man, what wonderful years those were, years lived with deeper feelings, full of love. With Claire, it was really hard for me to figure out who could do [Mr. Armstrongs first wife, Janet] justice. Its so specific, especially if you look at the archival footage, the little bits of interviews of her. So I never would have expected that a British person would have been the one to do the role. But I was a big fan of Claires from The Crown and I [met with her and saw] her do her interpretation of an interview of Janets that just blew me away. Very quickly, it became obvious to me who had to play the role. Ryan, how do you personify someone who is literally a postage stamp, someone generations of Americans have grown up with and have their own ideas about? RYAN GOSLING Well, Jim Hansens book was really incredible. He was a close friend of Neils, so that was an important tool. But really Ive never had more help on a film. Neils sons [Mark and Rick Armstrong] were very involved, I had the opportunity to meet Janet before she passed away. Neils sister, June, childhood friends, co-workers. Both his and Janets legacy were very important to a lot of people, and the insights that they shared about both of them were invaluable. Claire, the movie kind of proceeds on two tracks: one following Neil in the sky and the other following Janet at home with the children and the other astronauts wives. How did you see her role in the larger story of putting a man on the moon? CLAIRE FOY I dont think that she felt that she was doing anything for the moon landing except supporting Neil. But she also knew that he could take care of himself, that it wasnt her job to take care of him. They had this understanding between the two of them that was quite equal, I felt. So I think Jan really had her own life and she wanted to live that life fully. She had no intention of kind of living half a life because her husband was constantly putting his life in danger. Happy the Asian elephant has been living at the Bronx Zoo for more than 40 years. Shes 47 years old and has been living alone since 2006, separated from the zoos two other elephants ever since a fight led to bad blood. So is Happy happy? It depends on whom you ask. The zoo has said many times that Happy is quite content. But an animal rights group has described the situation quite differently, saying that the elephant is being unlawfully imprisoned. So its suing the zoo to set Happy free. The Nonhuman Rights Project is a nonprofit organization that defends nonhuman animals. Its seeking to get Happy and three other elephants and a handful of chimpanzees the same legal protections as humans. The move potentially gives Mr. Cuomo, who is seeking a third term, a valuable perch from which to receive votes in the general election against the Republican candidate, Marcus Molinaro, and could help the W.F.P. assure its own survival as a viable third party in the state. Under state law, any party that fails to get 50,000 votes in an election for governor loses its place on the ballot until the next election for governor, effectively ending its influence in elections for four years. It was not immediately clear whether Mr. Cuomo who has had a fraught relationship with the Working Families Party would accept the ballot line, and the W.F.P. set a deadline of 5 p.m. Friday for the governor to accept the offer. Mr. Cuomos campaign declined to comment. Major-party candidates in New York commonly appear on as many ballot lines as possible in order to maximize their tally on Election Day. Under state law, candidates in New York are able to collect votes on multiple party lines, which are counted cumulatively. Mr. Cuomo, 60, a lifelong Democrat, is expected to appear on at least one other minor party line that of the Independence Party in November. Despite the move to endorse Mr. Cuomo, there was still open criticism of him and his sometimes heavy-handed tactics, with battle lines sharply drawn over political purity (as represented by Ms. Nixon) versus pragmatism (as represented by Mr. Cuomo). The plea was filed in the apex court registry on Wednesday morning challenging the Delhi High Court order. The Delhi High Court had on Monday freed Navlakha from house arrest, five weeks after he along with four other rights activists were arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima violence in Maharashtra. (Photo: File) New Delhi: The Maharashtra government on Wednesday moved the Supreme Court challenging the Delhi High Court order allowing Gautam Navlakha, one of the five rights activists arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima case, to be freed from house arrest. The plea was filed in the apex court registry on Wednesday morning challenging the Delhi High Court order, Nishant Katneshwar, counsel for the Maharashtra government told PTI. The Delhi High Court had on Monday freed Navlakha from house arrest, five weeks after he along with four other rights activists were arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima violence in Maharashtra. Also read: Setback to Pune cops: Delhi HC ends activist Gautam Navlakha's house arrest Granting relief to the 65-year-old Navlakha, the high court had also quashed the trial court's transit remand order which he had challenged before the matter was taken to the Supreme Court. Ari Spitzer woke up in his fourth-floor apartment in Manhattan around 2 a.m. on Wednesday to sirens blaring and the smell of heavy smoke. When he opened his front door, the hallway was so full of smoke he couldnt leave. I couldnt even see, he said. He rushed to the fire escape, where the smoke was so thick he couldnt see far enough to make his way to the ground. From there, fire crews helped him get down. Firefighters were still on the scene as of 11 a.m., working to extinguish a six-alarm fire in a building in the East Village that began early Wednesday. This was supposed to be Sheldon Silvers final act, a last-gasp gambit to avoid surrendering to prison on Oct. 5 that seemed certain to fail. Except it didnt. Mr. Silver, the former powerful New York State Assembly speaker, will be allowed to stay out of prison until his appeal of his conviction on corruption charges is decided. A federal appeals panel on Wednesday agreed to stay his surrender date and granted his request for bail. For anyone familiar with Mr. Silvers long history in office, the outcome of the panels decision is not surprising, given his penchant for brushing off threats and challenges. He did it again. In his more than two decades as Assembly speaker, Mr. Silver, 74, withstood questions about his outside income, calls for his ouster, and even rare challenges from his Democratic colleagues. He was also faulted for his handling of two sexual harassment allegations, but nothing seemed to stick to him. David P. Schippers Jr., who served as chief investigative counsel for the House Judiciary Committee during the impeachment of President Bill Clinton in 1998, died on Friday at his home in Grayslake, Ill. He was 88. His son Judge Thomas Schippers said the cause was pancreatic cancer. Mr. Schippers, who had been both a federal prosecutor and a criminal defense lawyer, was a lifelong Democrat and well connected in Chicago political circles. He voted for Mr. Clinton in both the 1992 and 1996 presidential elections, his son said, and often told his children, Never bet against God, Notre Dame or the Democratic Party. But in 1998, when his friend Representative Henry J. Hyde, the Illinois Republican who was chairman of the Judiciary Committee, asked him to oversee the impeachment investigation, he accepted. Dad did it because Hyde said hed be good for the job, Judge Schippers said. He wanted someone who could be independent and who would not have some preconceived end in sight. Gary Kurtz, who produced Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back, helping George Lucas create one of the most successful franchises in movie history, died on Sept. 23 at a care facility near his home in London. He was 78. The cause was cancer, his family said in a statement. The work of film producers can vary; some are little more than financial backers, while others are essentially partners in a production. Mr. Kurtz was emphatically the latter. I grew up in the school where the producer was just as much a filmmaker as the cameraman, he told The Star-Ledger of Newark in 2005. Mr. Kurtz first worked with Mr. Lucas on his breakout film, the nostalgic coming-of-age comedy American Graffiti (1973), before collaborating with him on the first two films of the Star Wars saga, which established Mr. Lucas as a major filmmaker. Geoff Emerick, a sound engineer who recorded, among others, the Beatles, helping to shape the bands ever-evolving music on pivotal albums like Revolver and Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band, died on Tuesday. He was 72. Abbey Road Studios posted the news of his death on its website, though it did not specify where he died. A video posted on Mr. Emericks Facebook page said he appeared to have had a heart attack. Mr. Emerick was just out of Crouch End Secondary Modern School in North London in 1962 when he was hired for an entry-level job as an assistant engineer at EMIs Abbey Road studios. In his memoir, Here, There and Everywhere: My Life Recording the Music of the Beatles (2006), written with Howard Massey, Mr. Emerick described his second day on the job, when he watched as the producer George Martin brought in his newly signed foursome Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison and Ringo Starr for an early recording session. Its almost embarrassing to admit today, Mr. Emerick wrote, but what struck me most about the Beatles when I first saw them was their skinny knit ties. He bought himself one, and he wasnt alone. Within a short time, he wrote, it seemed like everyone at EMI was wearing them. Since 1851, obituaries in The New York Times have been dominated by white men. With Overlooked, were adding the stories of remarkable people whose deaths went unreported in The Times. It was unseasonably warm on Jan. 12, 1888, as Minnie Freeman made her way to a school in rural Nebraska, where she was a teacher. Temperatures had been climbing well into the 40s that month, a respite from the bitter cold that usually gripped the prairie in the dead of winter. Shortly after she arrived, the students, whose ages were about 5 to 15 shuffled into the tiny Midvale School and the lesson began. By noon, a light morning frost had melted, and the sky seemed to be clearing. Then, over lunch, a deadly snowstorm struck. Hail pelted the windows. The wind grew violent. The mercury plummeted to 20 degrees below zero. Yesterday, as you probably heard, Amazon announced that it was raising its minimum hourly pay to $15. About 350,000 workers will receive an immediate raise as a result. Amazon also called on other companies to do the same and said it would lobby Washington to increase the federal minimum wage. A tightening labor market no doubt contributed to Amazons decision, but politics avoiding the chance of regulations that pose a bigger cost down the road, as The Wall Street Journals Dan Gallagher wrote was the main factor. This is how democracy and capitalism are supposed to work. Jeff Bezos admitted a real degree of failure here and openly stated that the critics were right and he was wrong, wrote Shaun King, the writer and Black Lives Matter activist. Thank you @SenSanders, tweeted John Podesta, Hillary Clintons former campaign chairman. Bezos thanked Sanders yesterday as well, in a Twitter exchange. For more on the importance of changing corporate behavior, I recommend a recent book by Peter Georgescu, the former C.E.O. of a major advertising agency, as well as coverage and analysis of Senator Elizabeth Warrens new legislation on this topic. Trumps tax fraud. If youre a subscriber to The Times and youre feeling angry this morning about President Trumps brazen tax cheating as uncovered by a long Times investigation I know how you feel. But I would also encourage you to make room to feel a small bit of pride, as well. A long journalistic investigation, involving multiple reporters and editors, is expensive. The reason my colleagues in the newsroom are able to pursue such projects is because of the financial support of subscribers. All of us who work here are grateful for that support. Among the reactions to the investigation: If youre wondering how Trump managed to evade the tax authorities for so long, given the brazen acts reported in that NYT piece, note that weve basically stopped prosecuting white-collar crime and tax evasion, tweeted The Washington Posts Catherine Rampell. Most if not all of the transactions detailed in The Times can be pursued as civil tax fraud by both the federal and New York state governments, argues David Cay Johnston, a reporter who has covered Trumps finances for years. What we need now are serious investigations by Congress, by the IRS and by New York state and city tax authorities. Mr. Maassen himself has hardly diminished the organizations right-wing reputation. This year, a defector from Alternative for Germany accused him of having advised the partys former co-leader on how to avoid surveillance. Mr. Maassen was never charged, but even the hint of such a link is detrimental to the states legitimacy. A constellation of forces is now relearning to cooperate: right-wing street movements, right-wing news outlets, a fully fledged political party and a murky portion of the state bureaucracy. So in a sense, Horst Seehofer, Germanys interior minister and Mr. Maassens sympathetic boss, is not wrong when he calls Mr. Maassen a classic civil servant. Mr. Seehofer has proved Mr. Maassens most important ally, raising questions about the interior ministers own pandering or fealty to the far right. For Mr. Maassens professional breach, Ms. Merkels fragile coalition agreed to remove him from his post as head of German intelligence. Yet instead of demoting him or outright firing him the coalition effectively promoted him. His new job as state secretary came with a salary increase. In reaction to the public outcry, he was shuffled once again, this time to become special adviser to Mr. Seehofer. Mr. Seehofer is the fiercest critic of Ms. Merkel within her governing coalition. Migration is the mother of all problems, he recently declared. But Ms. Merkel needs his party, the Christian Social Union, to form the right flank of her government. He, in turn, believes he needs to appeal to the far more right-wing elements in his own party, which faces a challenge in this months regional Bavarian election from the Greens and, crucially, Alternative for Germany. Evidently, Mr. Seehofer considers the disgraced Mr. Maassen a valuable electoral asset for keeping his conservative bona fides intact. The entire affair is only one in a series of events that have marked a change in the public perception of the far right in Germany. Only two years ago, many right-wing politicians were still reluctant to officially endorse nationalist, anti-immigrant street movements such as Pegida. Now it is normal for not only Alternative for Germany politicians to back them officially, but even members of the putative political center to make shows of sympathy. Wolfgang Kubicki, vice chairman of the liberal Free Democratic Party, was quick to attribute the roots of the riots in Chemnitz to Ms. Merkels policy of admitting refugees and asylum seekers in 2015. For decades, the right-wing elements in the German state never had the opportunity to cooperate with a major party that shares its views. Now they do. For hundreds of civil servants, the rise of Alternative for Germany has presented an opportunity to engage in more right-wing political activities than would have been possible only a few years ago. A senior public prosecutor in Berlin, a judge in Dresden, as well as police officers and teachers across the country: For all of them, supporting the party serves as the bridge between the functioning state apparatus and the far right. Very often, the partys members draw connections between their profession and what they take to be the necessity of right-wing activism. They spread rumors of the governments secret commands to prioritize anti-right policies over the solving of crimes committed by refugees or the left-green indoctrination of students in public schools. Their conspiracy theories have not diminished with their proximity to power. The future is a dark one when a right-wing party surges and finds sectors of the state full of classic civil servants. Thomas Meaney is a fellow at the American Council on Germany. Saskia Schafer is an assistant professor at Humboldt University in Berlin. Americans will receive a text message this week as part of a Wireless Emergency Alert System test ... Cellphone users can opt out of natural disaster or missing children alerts, but will not be able to avoid the presidential alert system. The Independent PRESIDENT TRUMP: Hello, America, this is your all-time favorite president testing the wireless emergency alert system. FEMA: FEMA confirms that this text to all Americans is part of our emergency preparation. COAST GUARD: The Coast Guard is ready to provide full support in the event of an emergency. TINA WILLIAMS (Albany): What is this? I didnt sign up to receive group texts from the government. JOSH COOK (Cleveland): I didnt either. Please remove me. A good place to start is with the recent New York magazine account of Kavanaughs freshman dorm room, apparently a subterranean pit with vomit stains in the bathroom whose other occupants and the future Supreme Court nominee barely spoke to one another. The author, Lisa Miller, describes the general early-80s freshman scene at Yale like this: Many that year describe the social life on campus as extremely tribal and isolating, with the elites and legacies hanging with each other, dominating and creating ripples of inarticulate fear, while the outsiders the nerds and the scholarship kids and the people of color circled the outskirts seeking friendly alliances. So on the one hand, yes: When I went to Harvard 15 years later, the dynamic on campus freshman year was similar. The prep school kids arrived with pre-forged friend groups, fake IDs, a patina of sophistication and a heavy dose of arrogance, and their social scene was an intimidating fortress around which the rest of campus social life swirled and eddied. I knew lots of kids with backgrounds like Brett Kavanaughs or even more so (since, after all, he went to a Catholic school rather than one of the old Protestant ones; grew up near D.C., not New York; went to Beach Week rather than the Hamptons ), and I was great friends with some of them individually while always feeling uncomfortable, out of place, chip firmly planted on shoulder in the atmosphere that they created all together. And my friends who came from working-class or immigrant backgrounds generally found their scene more alienating still. But now hit pause for a moment, because if you read this and then go look me up on Wikipedia (actually, please dont) youll see that I also attended something that could be reasonably described as a prep school so who am I, exactly, to declare that there was some huge distance between myself and the Kavanaugh types, or any other preppy clique? And with that question youve struck to the heart of the whole meritocratic game, which depends on a reproduction of privilege that pretends to be something else, something fair and open and all about hard work and just deserts. In this game the people whose privilege is particularly obvious, the boarding schoolers and New York toffs and Bethesda country clubbers, play a crucially important role. Its not just that their parents pay full freight and keep the economics of tuition viable for everyone. Its that the eliter-than-elite kids themselves help create a provisional inside-the-Ivy hierarchy that lets all the other privileged kids, the ones who are merely upper-upper middle class, feel the spur of resentment and ambition that keeps us running, keeps us competing, keeps us sharp and awful in all the ways that meritocracy requires. Its basically the dynamic depicted in David Finchers The Social Network, which was somewhat factually iffy in its portrait of Facebooks founding but totally true to the culture in which the social-media giant was incubated a culture in which echt-preppies like the Winklevii, Mark Zuckerberg's rivals, exist so other slightly-less-privileged kids can hate them, and work twice as hard to beat them, and then tell themselves that they were underdogs all along. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been selected in the leadership category for his pioneering work in championing the Internati-onal Solar Alliance. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will receive the United Nations highest environmental honour Champions of The Earth Award at a special ceremony on Wednesday. Mr Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron have been named as recipients of the prestigious award for their exemplary leadership and advocating action on sustainable development and climate change. The award, announced on September 26 on the sidelines of 73rd UN General Assembly in New York, will be presented by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, an official statement said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been selected in the leadership category for his pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and for his unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022, it said. The annual Champions of the Earth prize is awarded to outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions have had a positive impact on the environment. In identifying the response to the women who have gone public with accusations against Kavanaugh as misogynist rather than sexist, I refer to a helpful distinction made by the philosopher Kate Manne in her book Down Girl: The Logic of Misogyny. Whereas sexism justifies patriarchal social arrangements by differentiating between women and men, she points out, misogyny works by differentiating between good women and bad women, by rewarding the good ones and punishing the bad. It should be understood, Manne writes, primarily as the law enforcement branch of a patriarchal order, which has the overall function of policing and enforcing its governing norms and expectations. A central mechanism for enforcing these determinations is the deployment of misogynist attacks against women who have stepped out of line by stepping forward to intervene in national politics. These attacks take the form of an attempt to annihilate the women as epistemic subjects. Every stupid remark (She admits she was drunk, Shes mixed up, Why didnt she report at the time?) is designed to dismantle her status as a knower. Structuring the hearing as if the accuser were on trial by hiring a sex-crimes prosecutor to question her discloses the real purpose of the process. Misogynist attacks on the one giving testimony also take on the temporal structure of a typical sexual assault, in which time is sped up and pressure to hurry up and do it right now is applied incessantly (Drink this, Drink faster, Ive gotta have it now, Youre holding out on me, I dont wait, I just start kissing, Shove her in the room quick before she knows whats happening, Get her drunk, O.K., get in line). This is typical of all manner of sexual violence against women. While the Republicans made a show of giving Dr. Blasey all the time she needs during the hearing itself, the entire process has involved a pitched a battle over time, in which the Republicans determination to rush the Kavanaugh decision and their outrage over delays echoes and repeats the hurry-up temporality of sexual assault. Kavanaugh himself was enraged by having to wait. I wanted a hearing the day after the allegation came up, he shouted. I wanted to be here that day! I am a 57-year-old full professor of philosophy tenured at a well-respected research institution, who might be tempted to engage in an abstract analysis of these dynamics and leave it at that. This is what we are told doing philosophy entails. But in this case, I must evoke my own experience to get at the deep meaning of such events. So, #MeToo. I was gang raped by my sisters boyfriend and his friends at what was supposed to be a party. I was 19, a sophomore in college. They were in their 30s, graduate students at another institution. My sisters boyfriend, whom I considered a trusted friend, and his roommates had invited us to their home. They immediately started pushing shots of tequila on us (hurry up, drink more). I had so little experience with alcohol at that point, I had no idea how fast I could be incapacitated. When we were drunk enough, my sister was escorted away to sleep and I remember the image of her departure and the fear that cut like a knife through the fog. My memories are broken and choppy after that. They are mostly still photographs, even today in sharp focus. At certain points there is a short video burned into my brain; these memories are surrounded by periods of blackness. I dont know everything that happened that night. I know enough. (This kind of assault is not shocking, to allege such an assault is not outrageous. Julie Swetnicks claims are not from the twilight zone, they are from a typical American college campus.) To the Editor: Prof . Lau rence H. Tribes Oct. 2 Op-Ed essay, A Hamstrung Supreme Court?, is spot on. A Supreme Court justice swears an oath to faithfully and impartially discharge and perform all the duties incumbent upon me. At his hearing, Judge Brett Kavanaugh testified under oath. Sadly, he made it clear he would not honor his obligations of impartiality and integrity. Though he has proclaimed himself as independent , his fierce, intemperate counterattack presented him as a man eager to retaliate against his perceived detractors. His scornful demeanor, his claim that he was a victim of revenge and his threatening reference that what goes around comes around combined to reveal Judge Kavanaghs intent to serve as a political hatchet man bent on lashing out against perceived enemies for however long he serves. John P. Freeman Seattle The writer is professor emeritus of business and professional ethics at the University of South Carolina School of Law. To the Editor: Prof . Laurence H. Tribes recusal principles for Judge Brett Kavanaugh are like a restricted railroad ticket good for this day and train only. Professor Tribe has refrained from applying his Kavanaugh principles to Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Her intemperate personal attacks on Donald Trump in 2016 when he was a presidential candidate should have disqualified her from participating in the many cases in which the Trump administration has been a party. To the Editor: Re Trump Took Part in Suspect Schemes to Evade Tax Bills (front page, Oct. 3): Thanks to The Times for its excellent reporting on the real sources and scale of President Trumps inherited wealth, plus its insightful editorial (Donald Trump and the Self-Made Sham). Mr. Trumps lawyer provided The Times with a written statement denying any wrongdoing and asserting that, in fact, Mr. Trump had little to do with the dizzying transactions involving his family wealth . So which is it? Did Mr. Trump participate in corrupt transactions, likely making him dishonest as well as a con man, or did he have nothing to do with his familys complex financial transactions that were the foundation of his wealth, which suggests incompetence? Either way hes not the savvy self-made tycoon hes constantly boasting he is. James Berkman Boston To the Editor: Assuming that everything in this article is completely accurate, it is still very unfair. As you point out, the line between avoidance and evasion is murky and different lawyers will draw it in different places. But anyone seeking to legally avoid taxes will hire experienced lawyers to navigate the incredibly complex tax code. The Trump family, like many other wealthy families, had every right to do everything they could to avoid taxation in a legal manner. Apparently, they did not move money offshore to a tax haven, which is a common avoidance method. Of all human spaceflight, Apollo 8 may have best demonstrated NASAs capacity to change human perspective. In reflecting upon that mission, the first circumnavigation of the moon, the astronaut Bill Anders, one of three on board, said, We came all this way to explore the moon, and the most important thing is that we discovered the Earth. Anders had taken the photograph that came to be known as Earthrise, the first image of the planet captured by a human from beyond Earths orbit. As his fellow crew member Jim Lovell would point out, Suddenly, everybody could see the Earth as it truly is: a grand oasis in the vastness of space. It may seem counterintuitive to think that space exploration, with all its attendant risk and glory, primarily sheds light on our own home planet. But it does. This week marks the 60th anniversary of NASAs founding. For the past two years, we have been making a documentary about NASA, and that idea was pretty much echoed by all 45 of the astronauts, scientists, administrators and historians we interviewed. Very early on, NASA uncovered two important truths. First, that our planet was the only one in our solar system with an environment capable of supporting human life and, therefore, extraordinarily unique. And second, that earths environment was fundamentally fragile, protected by a thin iridescent layer of atmosphere and susceptible to damage at the hands of the planets inhabitants. On Sunday, Gov. Jerry Brown of California signed a bill requiring companies with main executive offices in the state to have at least one woman on their boards by the end of next year. By 2021, companies will be required to have at least two or three women directors, depending on their size. Failure to comply will result in fines of $100,000 to $300,000. This is, essentially, a quota that forces large companies to include women on their boards. Other countries, including Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and Spain, have such quotas, but this approach to diversity is a novelty on this side of the Atlantic. Its an idea whose time came long ago. In California, a quarter of public companies have no women on their boards. Thats particularly egregious, but the pattern holds across the country. Among S.&P. 500 companies, 2.8 percent had zero women on their boards in 2015 and, overall, women held less than 20 percent of board seats. Less than 4 percent of board seats at Fortune 500 companies were held by women of color in 2016. So far, policies for increasing board diversity in the United States have mostly consisted of asking companies to change. It hasnt worked. The share of women on Fortune 500 boards increased less than five percentage points between 2010 and 2016. California passed a resolution in 2013 urging public companies in the state to add women to their boards by 2017, but fewer than 20 percent met the deadline. The United States, Mexico and Canada finalized a new trade agreement Sunday to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement, or Nafta. The new deal, called the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, staves off a trade war, reassuring some Canadian readers who said they were pleased with it. But many Canadians took to our comment section to tell us that, more than anything, they are angry over how the deal was achieved. They called the Trump administrations negotiating tactics bullying techniques and name-calling rather than diplomacy. A selection of comments from Canadian readers is below. They have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity. No one would call it a reasonable negotiation If you hold a gun to the head of your much smaller and weaker neighbor to force him to give you a few more apples off his tree, and he complies, I guess you could call that success. But no one would call it a reasonable negotiation between friendly neighbors. Lets be very clear about that. Nick Wright, Halifax, Nova Scotia From the lofty perch atop the Bayonne Bridge, which spans the Kill Van Kull to Staten Island, the postindustrial waterfront city of Bayonne, N.J., resembles a miniature model. Down on the ground, Bayonne, which has about six square miles and 67,000 people, has more conventional proportions. Yet there is still a pleasant sense of proximity, residents say. Short blocks, shopkeepers who know their customers, and families that stick around for generations foster intimacy. Its really the best of both worlds, said Arthur Saks, 30, who moved to Bayonne in 2010 from the Great Kills neighborhood on Staten Island. Its close enough to New York to have a city feel, but you get that small-town vibe at the same time. Leon Lederman, whose ingenious experiments with particle accelerators deepened sciences understanding of the subatomic world, died early Wednesday in Rexburg, Idaho. He was 96. His wife, Ellen Carr Lederman, confirmed the death, at a care facility. She and Dr. Lederman, who had long directed the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory outside Chicago, had retired to eastern Idaho. Early in his career Dr. Lederman and two colleagues demonstrated that there are at least two kinds of particles called neutrinos (there are now known to be three), a discovery that was honored in 1988 with a Nobel Prize in Physics. He went on to lead a team at the Fermi laboratory, in Batavia, Ill., that found the bottom quark, another fundamental constituent of matter. For those baffled by such esoterica, Dr. Lederman was quick to sympathize. The Two Neutrinos sounds like an Italian dance team, he remarked in his Nobel banquet speech. But he was determined to spread the word about the importance of the science he loved: How can we have our colleagues in chemistry, medicine, and especially in literature share with us, not the cleverness of our research, but the beauty of the intellectual edifice, of which our experiment is but one brick? Researchers from Johns Hopkins University have recommended that psilocybin, the active compound in hallucinogenic mushrooms, be reclassified for medical use, potentially paving the way for the psychedelic drug to one day treat depression and anxiety and help people stop smoking. The suggestion to reclassify psilocybin from a Schedule I drug, with no known medical benefit, to a Schedule IV drug, which is akin to prescription sleeping pills, was part of a review to assess the safety and abuse of medically administered psilocybin. Before the Food and Drug Administration can be petitioned to reclassify the drug, though, it has to clear extensive study and trials, which can take more than five years, the researchers wrote. The analysis was published in the October print issue of Neuropharmacology, a medical journal focused on neuroscience. What are the worst information security practices that you see many people doing? Passwords! One day tech companies will invent something better than passwords for security, but for now they are still the weakest link in the average persons setup. If I could get people to stop two practices , they would be: Dont use an obvious password like your name, your kids name or your birthday, and dont use the same password for everything. Most tech companies do a terrible job of educating people about their security, because they tend to just flood the zone with information and make it seem that if you arent doing everything, you are a failure. Most people I talk to say they are intimidated by what they think they need to do to stay safe online and end up doing nothing at all. I wish there were a five-step program for online safety. It would start with basic things, like how to come up with a strong password and use a password manager, and build from there. What tech product are you and your family currently obsessed with at home? We arent a big tech family! We try really hard to keep tech out of sight of our 1-year-old daughter. Kids are funny, though even though we dont watch TV around her, she loves to carry the remote around the house. My iPhone is her favorite teething toy, and she has learned how to get my laptop out of my backpack and slide it across the floor until she can hide it under the sofa. So I would say the one piece of tech that has been really useful is the tracking function Find My iPhone or Find My Mac on both devices. Ive had to put the Tile location devices, which are wireless trackers that help us keep tabs on items, on everything else. Over the last year, Ive also been given a lot of internet-connected toys designed for kids and their parents. All of them were either returned or left in their boxes when I saw how bad the security was. Rep. Chuck Fleischmann released the following statement after the Senate passed S.1405, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2019. Included in FAA Reauthorization are two amendments offered by Rep. Fleischmann: The aim of my first amendment is to addresses concerns regarding the ballooning costs associated with building and maintaining our general aviation airport runways, especially in rural America. This amendment will mitigate the hefty price tag these airports face by encouraging the use of state based products and supporting local businesses that offer alternative pavement solutions. "We commend Congressman Fleischmann for his leadership on addressing the pavement construction needs of state aviation agencies and transportation departments in the FAA Reauthorization bill that has passed in both chambers, said John Shea NASAO interim president and CEO. He said, "The provision championed by Rep. Fleischmann reduces outdated and unnecessary regulatory red tape and streamlines a process for states to reduce pavement construction costs while still maintaining the highest level of safety at our nations general aviation airports. Facing serious budget restraints and increased construction costs, states are constantly forced to do more with less. Thanks to Rep. Fleischmanns work on this provision, states now have the ability to save millions of dollars over the course of the five-year bill." Additionally, I was proud to offer another amendment to ensure the sustainability and longevity of our airports through the use of geosynthetic materials, said Rep. Fleischmann. Geosynthetic materials allow for faster airfield construction and repairs compared to the use of conventional materials. This allows for airports to reopen sooner which prevents costly congestion. Additionally, because geosynthetics allow for reduced maintenance costs, they also take into account the budgetary limitations of our nations airports. "I am confident that both of my amendments will allow for those to travel our skies to do so more safely and seamlessly with common-sense answers to the problems plaguing todays airport infrastructure. Mayawati accused Digvijay Singh of being a BJP agent, who is working against a Congress-BSP alliance. Lucknow/New Delhi: Dealing a body blow to the Congress and the entire concept of Opposition unity, BSP supremo Mayawati on Wednesday declared that she would not align with the Congress in the coming Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, and singled out former MP chief minister and senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh for working against a Congress-BJP alliance. While saying that Sonia and Rahul Gandhi were keen to have a tieup with the BSP, Ms Mayawati accused Mr Singh of being a BJP agent, who is working against a Congress-BSP alliance. The Congress swung into firefighting mode, saying Ms Mayawati had made it clear that she respects Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, and said any other differences could be sorted out. BSP chief Mayawati has expressed mutual respect for Congress president Rahul Gandhi and former chief Sonia Gandhi. The creases can be ironed out, Congress chief spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala said in New Delhi. It might be recalled Ms Mayawati has already announced a tieup with Ajit Jogis Janata Congress in Chhattisgarh and had declared a list of 22 candidates for the Madhya Pradesh elections. Though officially the Congress put its chin up, sources said the BSP chief had been asking for at least 50 seats in Madhya Pradesh and a seat-sharing pact in Rajasthan, on which the larger party was in no mood to relent. Launching a blistering attack on the Congress, the BSP supremo termed senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh a BJP agent. She added: The Congress, like the BJP, is conspiring to finish off the BSP. In a statement to a news agency, Ms Mayawati blamed Mr Digvijay Singh for scuttling the alliance. Referring to an interview given by Mr Singh in which he claimed that Ms Mayawati was being pressured by the Centre not to enter the alliance, the BSP chief said it was the former Madhya Pradesh chief minister who was working under BJP pressure. It was Digvijay Singh who helped the BJP form the government in Goa, she said, adding: In fact, it is Digvijay Singh who is afraid of agencies like the CBI and the ED. She vehemently denied that she was under any kind of pressure from the BJP and said instead of succumbing to such pressure, she had chosen to resign from the chief ministers post in 2003 and then from the Rajya Sabha in 2017. The former UP chief minister accused the Congress of remaining arrogant despite repeated failures and said it was a case of rassi jal gayi, aithan nahin gayi. She said that instead of finishing the BJP, Congress leaders were more interested in finishing the non-BJP parties. The Congress is under the misconception that it can defeat the BJP on its own, but it does not realise that whenever there has been a straight fight between the BJP and the Congress, the BJP has scored. The ground reality is that people have still not forgiven the Congress for its mistakes and corruption. The Congress does not seem to be in a mood to rectify its mistakes and improve itself, she stated. However, the BSP president had a word of praise for Mrs Sonia Gandhi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi. I feel Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi are honest and have well-meaning intentions about a Congress-BSP alliance but some of their own leaders are sabotaging this, she said. This word of praise for the Congress high command indicates that the BSP chief is not completely shutting the door on the Congress. Ms Mayawati made it clear that she had called off the alliance because she was not getting sufficient seats in Rajasthan and MP. She did not say that she would continue this stand in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Taking a swipe at the Congress, the BJP said that forging a coalition was not in its DNA and it only gives importance to the Gandhi family. After the BSP supremo called off alliance talks with the Opposition party, senior Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said: With whom the Congress allies is entirely their business, but in light of the concerns and pain of Mayawati, I can only say that coalition is not a part of the Congress DNA. They only give importance to the family. Reacting to the issue, a BJP general secretary tweeted: Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) in progress. First AAP and now BSP calling the bluff. Mayawati says Congress arrogant, a new revelation for her, and declares no alliance in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan too. Chhattisgarh already dumped. Em (Matilda Ziegler) is in some ways harsher, egging on Andys revenge fantasies and bullying him to take ownership of his feelings. She sees confronting Fred as an act of civic bravery akin to that of the women now accusing their harassers during what she calls this amazing historical moment. She is not an outlier in her unabating hostility. Soon after she and Andy leave, Ivy, the mens parole officer, breaks the news that they will no longer be able to shop at the local IGA because it falls within the recently expanded forbidden zone surrounding a school. As the constraints around the men tighten they already wear ankle monitors and are forbidden smartphones and access to the internet you can feel Mr. Norris winding them a noose. But in Downstate he is winding a lot of nooses. Perps, police and victims recovery groups all get theirs. And whenever the victims are scathed sufficiently he turns his attention back to the pedophiles who, after all, as Ivy (Cecilia Noble) says, see themselves as victims too. Their anguishes are likewise balanced, so you never know where to land your sympathy. That is a risky proposition at a time when questioning the victim is impermissible, at least outside the theater. Seeing Downstate two days after Christine Blasey Ford and Brett Kavanaugh testified before the Senate, I worried that Mr. Norris might be asking too much of audiences electrified by the #MeToo movement. The play depends on our drawing fine distinctions between different kinds of sex crimes and between different kinds of perpetrators. Though men who prey on adult women have rarely before now been punished, for instance, the men in the group home, having preyed on children, have been punished repeatedly. Are their prison terms not enough? Would anything be enough? These are not funny questions, and Downstate, though at times uproarious, is not a comedy of horrors like Mr. Norriss Clybourne Park and Domesticated. It is far too grave for that, making it in some ways his most serious, successful and difficult work. The difficulties of tone and pacing and characterization are for the most part masterfully handled in Pam MacKinnons staging, which keeps its balance not by staying close to the middle but by swinging with confidence, and even swagger, to the extremes of feeling. Even where the script seems to falter (an intended surprise near the end is not much of one) the production never does. Yet within the theater world, its not Mr. Raus plays that are causing a stir. Instead, its his Ghent Manifesto, issued in May, in which he sets out how he thinks theaters should be run. Point 1: Its not just about portraying the world anymore. Its about changing it. Point 4 bans the performance of classics. Point 7 calls for two amateurs in every performance. (Animals dont count, but they are welcome, it adds.) Point 9 says at least one production per season must be rehearsed or performed in a war zone, an attempt to bring cultural infrastructure to where its needed most. Even some admirers of his plays, and fellow experimental theatermakers, have been critical. I think its really old-fashioned, Alexander Devriendt, artistic director of Ontroerend Goed, an acclaimed Belgian theater group, said in a telephone interview. Hell break the rules as soon as he needs to, so why have them? Mr. Raus background doesnt immediately suggest he was destined to push boundaries. He was born in 1977; his father was a doctor, his mother a chemist. They divorced when he was young, and his mother became involved with a quite extremist Trotskyist guy who kept losing his job because of his views, Mr. Rau said. The family had to move repeatedly, and Mr. Rau said he changed schools 12 or 13 times. As a teenager, he learned Hebrew, Greek and Latin and read classical tragedies. But he moved into theater only after trying, and failing, to make movies. My first film came to cinemas in 2002 I was 25 and it was a total disaster, he said. It was based on a story by Thomas Pynchon, the American novelist, and featured my usual mix of violence, jokes and realism, Mr. Rau said. I was sure it would win all the prizes, and everybody hated it. [For more coverage of race, sign up here to have our Race/Related newsletter delivered weekly to your inbox.] The universitys swift response was a striking contrast to recent events in which it was forced to reckon with racial controversy on campus. In 2012, racial epithets against President Barack Obama were chanted at a student protest. In 2014, a noose was placed around a statue of James Meredith, the universitys first black student, whose enrollment in 1962 led to deadly rioting on campus. There were no immediate attempts in the aftermath of those events to open up talks between students and the administration. The way the school sprang into action to address Mr. Meeks post caught many students and faculty off guard. It was the latest signal that the administration is taking steps to break with the past. Others include replacing the mascot, Colonel Reb; renaming a street that was called Confederate Drive; and removing the name of a white supremacist from a building. Melania Trump, the first lady who is known to shy away from the spotlight, embarked on her first major solo international trip last week. While visiting Ghana, Malawi, Kenya and Egypt, Mrs. Trump wove in her child-focused Be Best campaign. She navigated a continent that has felt pressure from President Trumps words and policies, from immigration to aid distribution. Mrs. Trumps trip came at a chaotic time in Washington, as her husband faced a bitter fight over his Supreme Court nominee and partisan rancor weeks before the midterm elections. SATURDAY, Oct. 6 Egypt Cairo In front of the historic pyramids of Giza, Mrs. Trump answered questions from reporters in a rare five-minute session with the press. The first lady spoke about the Supreme Court confirmation of Judge Brett M. Kavanaugh, her husbands late-night tweets and, of course, her wardrobe. The F.B.I. on Wednesday arrested a Navy veteran suspected of sending two envelopes to the Pentagon this week that contained raw materials for the deadly poison ricin. The man, William Clyde Allen III, was detained at a home in Logan, Utah. Two envelopes addressed to Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and to the chief of the United States Navy, Adm. John Richardson, set off alarms in a mail screening facility outside the Pentagon on Monday. No one was injured. Defense officials had suspected that the letters contained ricin, but a Pentagon spokeswoman said on Wednesday that they actually contained castor beans, the raw material from which ricin is made. She said the F.B.I. was investigating. Another letter suspected of containing ricin was sent to President Trump at the White House on Monday, but was intercepted by the Secret Service. In a statement, the Secret Service said no one was injured. The bottom line is, the F.B.I. should have the time to do a thorough investigation, he said. Im not sure that they will. A Democrat who also faces allegations Mr. Sanders was also asked about Representative Keith Ellison, a progressive Democrat from Minnesota and deputy chairman of the Democratic Party. Earlier this year, Mr. Sanders endorsed Mr. Ellison in the race for Minnesota attorney general. Mr. Ellison has since been publicly accused by his former girlfriend of having emotionally and physically abused her. In response, the Democratic Party conducted an investigation, and Mr. Ellison has denied the allegations. This week, The Associated Press reported that a draft report had concluded that the allegations could not be substantiated because the ex-girlfriend, Karen Monahan, refused to provide video she said she had of the episode. And on Wednesday, Mr. Sanders attempted to evade questions about whether he still supported Mr. Ellison, whom he has reportedly called a personal friend. He reiterated that the reports had suggested that the allegations could not be substantiated, but also said: Everybody has a right to be believed. He then emphasized the need to take a hard look at the evidence before pivoting back to Judge Kavanaugh. Amazon raised its wages. Which company is next? Mr. Sanders and labor organizers have also criticized the wages and conditions of Amazons work force. On Tuesday the company, squeezed by the pressure, said it would raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour for its United States employees. I am here because I believe it is my civic duty. ... This confirmation process has become a national disgrace. Early in the evening, I went up a very narrow set of stairs leading from the living room to a second floor to use the restroom. When I got to the top of the stairs, I was pushed from behind into a bedroom across from the bathroom. I couldnt see who pushed me. Brett and Mark came into the bedroom and locked the door behind them. There was music playing in the bedroom. It was turned up louder by either Brett or Mark once we were in the room. I was pushed onto the bed and Brett got on top of me. He began running his hands over my body and grinding into me. I believed he was going to rape me. I tried to yell for help. When I did, Brett put his hand over my mouth to stop me from yelling. This is what terrified me the most and has had the most lasting impact on my life. It was hard for me to breathe, and I thought that Brett was accidentally going to kill me. Dr. Ford, with what degree of certainty do you believe Brett Kavanaugh assaulted you? One hundred percent. What is the strongest memory you have? Indelible in the hippocampus is the laughter the uproarious laughter between the two, and theyre having fun at my expense. Youve never forgotten that laughter, never forgotten them laughing at you? I was underneath one of them while the two laughed two friends having a really good time with one another. Are you aware that the three people at the party besides yourself and Brett Kavanaugh have given statements under penalty of felony to the committee? Yes. And are you aware of what those statements say? Yes. Are you aware that they say that they have no memory or knowledge of such a party? I dont expect that P.J. and Leland would remember this evening. It was a very unremarkable party. It was not one of their more notorious parties. Because nothing remarkable happened to them that evening they were downstairs. And Mr. Judge is a different story I would expect that he would remember that this happened. I categorically and unequivocally deny the allegation against me by Dr. Ford. This whole two-week effort has been a calculated and orchestrated political hit, fueled with apparent pent-up anger about President Trump and the 2016 election, fear that has been unfairly stoked about my judicial record, revenge on behalf of the Clintons and millions of dollars in money from outside, left-wing opposition groups. The other night, Ashley and my daughter Liza said their prayers. And little Liza, all of 10 years old, said to Ashley, we should pray for the woman. Was there ever a time when you drink so much that you couldnt remember what happened or part of what happened the night before? I no. I remember what happened. And, I think youve probably had beers, Senator, and so So youre saying theres never been a case where you drank so much that you didnt remember what happened the night before, or part of what happened? Thats youre asking about yeah, blackout. I dont know, have you? Could you answer the question, Judge? And just so you thats not happened? Is that your answer? Yeah, and Im curious if you have. I have no drinking problem, Judge. Yeah, nor do I. O.K., thank you. In your yearbook, you talked about drinking and sexual exploits, did you not? Senator, let me take a step back and explain high school. I was No. 1 in the class, freshman And I thought No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. I thought only the Senate could filibuster. Im going to talk about my high school I thought only the Senate could filibuster. No, no, Im going to talk Let him answer. Im going to talk about my high school record if youre going to sit here and mock me. You said, I welcome any kind of investigation. I quote you. I welcome any kind of investigation. I welcome whatever the committee wants to do, because Im telling the truth. I want to know what you want to do. Im telling the truth. I want to know what you want to do, Judge. Im innocent. Im innocent of this charge. Then youre prepared for an F.B.I. investigation? They dont reach conclusions. You reach the conclusions, Senator. No, but they do investigate questions. If you wanted an F.B.I. investigation, you couldve come to us. What you want to do is destroy this guys life, hold this seat open and hope you win in 2020. You said that, not me. Youve got nothing to apologize for. When you see Sotomayor and Kagan, tell him that Lindsey said hello. Because I voted for them. I would never do to them what youve done to this guy. This is the most unethical sham since Ive been in politics. And if you really wanted to know the truth, you sure as hell wouldnt have done what youve done to this guy. Are you a gang rapist? No. I cannot imagine what you and your family have gone through. The federal official in charge of enforcing fair-lending laws that are intended to prevent discrimination is facing criticism for a series of racially provocative comments spanning the last 14 years. Eric Blankenstein, head of the supervision, enforcement and fair lending division at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a watchdog agency founded under President Barack Obama, apologized to agency staff members on Monday after a blog post using the N-word he wrote in 2004 as a University of Virginia law student became public. On Wednesday, Democrats on the Senate Banking Committee asked Mick Mulvaney, the bureaus interim director, to explain the vetting procedures used to hire Mr. Blankenstein. Mr. Mulvaney recruited Mr. Blankenstein, a close ally, from a federal trade agency post in December, shortly after being appointed to run the C.F.P.B. It is unclear whether his appointment is due to a failure to investigate Mr. Blankensteins background prior to his appointment, Mr. Blankenstein withholding information from you and the C.F.P.B., or an informed decision on your part to ignore his public comments, wrote Senator Sherrod Brown, Democrat of Ohio and the committees ranking member. I was reminded of that craziness this week, after The Washington Times retracted and apologized for a column about Seth Rich, the Democratic National Committee staff member whose unsolved killing in 2016 sparked conspiracy theories. Though the police believe Mr. Rich may have been killed in a botched robbery effort, many figures on the right including Sean Hannity have connected the death to the leak of D.N.C. emails. These days, removed from the din of a presidential election, it does seem as though were hearing less about those kinds of theories. But they certainly havent gone away (see: QAnon). To find out whats circulating right now on the dark corners of the internet, we reached out to the technology columnist Kevin Roose, our resident conspiracy theory expert and one of the people working on The Timess effort to identify political disinformation. Heres what he told us: Two high-profile progressive insurgents Beto ORourke in Texas and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in New York have both been on the receiving end of what I call the 4chan background check, which is an attempt, led by amateur sleuths on 4chan, 8chan, Reddit and other questionable internet forums, to dig up damning information on a candidate, no matter how inaccurate. One particularly dumb conspiracy theory involving Mr. ORourke is that he changed his name from Robert to Beto in order to ingratiate himself with Latino voters. In fact, he has gone by Beto since long before he entered politics, as he showed by tweeting a photo of himself as a young child with BETO stitched on his sweater. Still, the conspiracy persists. Ms. Ocasio-Cortez has had a flurry of misinformation thrown at her, too, including claims made by conservative writers that she grew up in a fancy suburban home despite her story of working-class roots in the Bronx. The tweet that accompanied many of these accusations showed a small, modest house in nearby Yorktown Heights not some sprawling McMansion. (The guy who dug up that photo also falsely claimed that Ms. Ocasio-Cortez had attended Brown University. She went to Boston University. So close!) But my personal favorite midterms conspiracy theory, even though technically its more of a midterms-adjacent conspiracy theory, is that the woman who testified in front of the Senate last week wasnt actually Christine Blasey Ford. According to some on Twitter, it was actually the actress Amy Schumer, wearing makeup and glasses. Its wild out there, folks! If you spot a piece of political disinformation online, let us know. ____________________ Democrats pushing in swing states The billionaire investor and Democratic activist Tom Steyer is directing his political operation to get involved in five additional House races in Florida, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. All five districts Floridas 15th, Floridas 16th, Floridas 25th, Pennsylvanias 16th and Wisconsins Sixth are considered Republican-leaning. Mr. Steyers investment is a sign that Democrats see opportunities to tilt those districts. The White House statement gave no further details about the material, but an official briefed on the F.B.I. review said the bureau contacted 10 people and interviewed nine of them. It was not clear why the 10th person was not interviewed. The White House concluded that the interviews did not corroborate sexual misconduct accusations against Judge Kavanaugh, and could help his case, said the person briefed on the findings, who requested anonymity to discuss them. But it is the judgments of senators that will determine Judge Kavanaughs fate. Senators will be permitted to review the materials, in what the F.B.I. calls 302 interview summaries, in a secured room at the Capitol starting Thursday morning, or they can be briefed by a handful of staff members who are cleared to examine the material. After a day of review, the Senate is on track to take an initial vote on Judge Kavanaughs confirmation on Friday and possibly a final vote as early as Saturday. Even before the material was sent to the Senate, Democrats complained that the F.B.I. investigation had been too narrow and failed to look extensively enough at the allegations lodged against Judge Kavanaugh, 53, a 12-year veteran of the federal appeals court in Washington. Christine Blasey Ford, 51, a university professor in California, has accused him of sexually assaulting her when they were teenagers at a small party in high school, while Deborah Ramirez, 53, who works for a county housing department in Boulder, Colo., has alleged that he exposed his genitals to her during a party in college. The F.B.I. initially interviewed four people identified by the Republican leadership of the Senate Judiciary Committee: Ms. Ramirez and three people whom Dr. Blasey recalled being in the house at the time of the party: Mark Judge, P.J. Smyth and Leland Keyser. All three have said they did not remember the party or witness misbehavior by Judge Kavanaugh, although Ms. Keyser told The Washington Post that she believes Dr. Blasey. The crime branch unit I of Thane police laid a trap and nabbed the accused near a hotel before the alleged exchange could take place. Mumbai: The Thane police seized the scales of endangered pangolins or scaly anteaters and ambergris (the scales of whales) worth Rs 20.20 crore when they were brought for sale at Kalwa on Tuesday. The crime branch unit I of Thane police laid a trap and nabbed the accused near a hotel before the alleged exchange could take place. The accused were identified as Kashinath Pawar (50), a labourer; Dilip Birje (49), a mason; and Dnyaneshwar More (40), a farmer in possession of the seized items. The official said they found 6kg pangolin scales worth Rs 20 lakh in Pawars possession. The bag also contained the ambergris that was wrapped inside a white cloth and kept in a maroon bag. We are questioning the accused on the person who was supposed to meet them. They seemed to be acting on somebodys behalf, said Deepak Deoraj, deputy commissioner of police, crime branch. The officials have also seized the car in which they used to travel. At 2:18 p.m. Eastern on Wednesday, cellphones across the United States emitted the ominous ring of an emergency presidential alert. It was the first nationwide test of a wireless emergency alert system, designed to warn people of a dire threat, like a terror attack, pandemic or natural disaster. THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System, it read. No action is needed. Two minutes later, televisions and radios broadcast test alerts. There was no notification plan for landlines. The president or someone he designates would make the decision to send a real alert in case of a nationwide catastrophe, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency would push the button. CAPE COAST, Ghana With the unrelenting Ghanaian sun serving as her spotlight, Melania Trump has stepped out of her husbands shadow, apparently showing the world what some 5,200 miles of breathing room away from her home city can do. On Wednesday morning, on the second day of a four-nation African tour, the first lady looked more comfortable striding into a meeting with local leaders on the coast of Ghana than she has perhaps ever looked in Washington. Given the bedlam of late in the American capital, that may be understandable. But as she makes her first big solo trip abroad, Mrs. Trump seems ready to show another side of herself: the happy one. Mrs. Trump has offered simple acts of grace on behalf of an administration with a fraught diplomatic history with Africa. She has spent much of her time just expressing appreciation to her hosts. HONG KONG Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmars civilian leader, was stripped of her honorary Canadian citizenship on Tuesday over her inaction on military violence against the countrys Rohingya Muslims. Senators unanimously passed a measure revoking her citizenship and declaring the treatment of the Rohingya by Myanmars government to be a genocide. The same actions were unanimously approved last week by the House of Commons. Those votes were prompted in part by a United Nations investigation that in August called for six top generals in Myanmar to be tried on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity. More than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled across the border to Bangladesh since August 2017, when Myanmars Buddhist-majority security forces began a violent campaign in Rakhine State that has included executions, gang rape and the burning of hundreds of villages. About 10,000 people have been killed, the United Nations says. Instead, the neighborhood was laid waste when the earthquake caused a phenomenon known as liquefaction, undermining and destroying at least 1,747 homes in this part of town alone. Balaroa is now a vast wasteland of debris. Rooftops are all that remain of many houses. The minaret of a mosque, leaning precariously to one side, is one of the few structures still standing. [Surveying the damage: Scenes from the Indonesian tsunami] Across Palu and in neighboring areas, many people are still unaccounted for. Officials put the number of missing at 113, but that was only those who had been reported. An untold number were swept away by the tsunami, especially by the third and final wave that was more than 20 feet high in some places. And many bodies are thought to still be buried under rubble in places like Balaroa. The quake struck at 6:02 p.m. local time, an hour when many would have been at home. During his nine years in power from 2009 to 2018, Mr. Najib acquired a reputation as the paragon of power unchecked. American investigators accuse Mr. Najib of having diverted $731 million from the state investment fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad, known as 1MDB, into his personal bank account. At least $4.5 billion in 1MDB money was stolen then laundered through American financial institutions, the United States Department of Justice says. To cover up the financial malfeasance, Mr. Najib and his political machine resorted to censorship, cash handouts and even physical violence, his critics say. Throughout Mr. Najibs tenure, a bejeweled Ms. Rosmah stood by his side, and her fondness for luxury accouterments earned the scorn of the Malaysian public. Ms. Rosmah, who was the daughter of teachers, was cast as a kind of Lady Macbeth who led her husband, the scion of one of Malaysias most prominent political families, astray. After Mr. Najibs party lost national elections in May, bringing the opposition to power for the first time ever in Malaysian history, the police conducted raids on residences associated with Mr. Najib and Ms. Rosmah. Investigators were pictured loading police trucks with hundreds of orange-hued boxes believed to contain Hermes Birkin handbags, which can cost up to $300,000. The Malaysian police said that the riches seized in the raids on six different properties were worth as much as $273 million. Found among the loot were 567 handbags, 423 watches, 14 tiaras and so much cash that it took three days to count it all. This was an animal, well-liked but by no means a member of the family. When we got him in the house my mum and sisters leapt into protest about his ugly face, the sheer size of him and the possibility that he was a biter. They quickly declared that he would sleep outside. Within mere days, Max had migrated from the backyard, to the doormat, and then, eventually, to wherever the hell he liked. It was his expression of adorable sincerity that melted my parents resolve. He was also talented, able to perform tricks like play dead, shake and sit. Unlike the other dogs we had randomly collected throughout my childhood, he seemed to listen and, astoundingly, to understand. He would routinely go for walks around the neighborhood by himself and then come back on his own accord: sometime we didnt notice that he had done so, save for the open gate left swinging in his wake. Boxers are European dogs, and Max suffered admirably through the extremes of the scorching Australian summer, panting heavily for months on end while enormous horseflies bit his thin ears raw and bloody scabs formed. Where the chemical solution from the vet failed, dad concocted an altogether more ethnic remedy of vinegar and kerosene, more suited to a bonfire than to a medical treatment. By then, my mum, with her feigned apathy, had also fallen prey to Maxs charms. Once, when she didnt know anyone was looking, I saw her pet him and call him habibi, which is Arabic for sweetheart" or, more dramatically, beloved. Image The Nour family's habibi, Max. Credit... Courtesy of Daniel Nour Then he got sick. It wasnt like the time he got pancreatitis because we were feeding him the wrong kind of food, or when he hurt his eye playing fetch at the park. It came on suddenly and gave no warning signs. SYDNEY, Australia When Australias conservative government first introduced a federal goods and services tax in 2000, the health minister at the time met with protests over a new 10 percent levy applied to tampons and other female sanitary products. Anything that did not prevent diseases, the minister, Michael Wooldridge, argued, should be taxed. As a bloke, Id like shaving cream exempt, but Im not expecting it to be, Mr. Wooldridge, a Liberal Party member, told a reporter that January. Condoms were exempt but tampons were not, because condoms prevent illness, he said. I wasnt aware that menstruation was an illness. Tampons and pads were, at the time, considered luxury goods and taxed as such. It has taken years, and successive governments both conservative and progressive for a recognition that sanitary products were a necessary health item for women. On Wednesday, the six men and two women who hold the purse strings for their states and territories announced that they had agreed to a government proposal to exempt such items from taxes. PARIS President Emmanuel Macrons most senior government ally forced his boss to accept his resignation on Wednesday, a humiliation for the embattled French leader who is already struggling with sinking popularity and weakened authority. Mr. Macron has had a difficult start to the fall political season, and it became even more so this week. Gerard Collomb, the 71-year-old interior minister whose balding head stood out among Mr. Macrons more youthful cadre, had announced that he wanted to depart the government weeks ago. The two men have been increasingly at odds Mr. Collomb criticized the presidents lack of humility in a recent interview. Those differences extended even to which one of them would get to decide the timing of the interior ministers departure. Mr. Collomb offered his resignation on Monday, but Mr. Macron refused to accept it, finally giving the green light for the departure only on Wednesday, after an unusual public standoff. Trying to dampen reports that Mr. Collombs departure would throw the presidency into further disarray, Benjamin Griveaux, a government spokesman, said, Nothing that has happened in the past 48 hours is akin to a political crisis. Officials said two accomplices set the plan in motion by taking a helicopter lesson, and when they returned for a second lesson, kidnapped the instructor and forced him to fly into the yard of the penitentiary, which was not covered with anti-helicopter netting. The instructor was told to land in the prison courtyard, and while the accomplices covered the courtyard with automatic rifles, Mr. Faid emerged after unlocking at least two prison doors, officials said. He then boarded the helicopter and the pilot flew to the north of Paris and landed in a field. The helicopter was abandoned there, and the pilot was left distraught but unharmed. Mr. Faid and his accomplices fled in a car that had been parked nearby for the next leg of the escape. The team left that vehicle in a parking lot and switched cars. At the time, Ms. Belloubet described the escape as very well prepared and said that Mr. Faids accomplices might have surveyed the prison by using drones in order to determine the exact place to land the helicopter. It was the second time that Mr. Faid had escaped from prison. The first time, in 2013, he took four prison guards hostage while using plastic explosives to blast his way through five sets of prison doors, officials said, then met an accomplice who was waiting in a car. Mr. Faid was recaptured several weeks later. This time, while he eluded the police somewhat longer, he had several close calls and was almost caught in July, when the police caught sight of him in the Val dOise. The reaction on Twitter on Wednesday to the recapture was made up mostly of congratulatory notes to the police, but here and there the response was, if anything, a little wistful. Although no one disputed Mr. Faid had done bad things, he has gained a somewhat mythical status, and even detectives admit that he is far from an ordinary criminal. Shes like a really old Jeep, making its way slowly through a rutted field, said Anand Menon, a professor of European politics and foreign affairs at Kings College London. You keep thinking that its going to break down, but it inches forward and just keeps on going. For her conference speech, Mrs. May entered with some dance steps to the sound of Abbas Dancing Queen, a self-deprecating reference to headlines she made with an awkward performance in Kenya in August. Then she joked about last years conference speech disaster, telling the audience that if she coughed this year, it was only because she had been up all night fixing the letters to the backdrop. Then it was on to Britains exit from the bloc, or Brexit. Mrs. May is scheduled to meet European leaders again this month, and told her party that she would be entering the toughest phase of the negotiations. With a growing campaign for a second referendum on withdrawal, Mrs. May warned hard-line Euroskeptic critics, If we all go off in different directions in pursuit of our own visions of the perfect Brexit, we risk ending up with no Brexit at all. Its hardly a state secret, of course, that the US SC features a bench broadly divided between conservatives and liberals. The whole world is watching: that was one of the most popular taunts when Chicago mayor Richard Daley unleashed his armour-clad police against the mainly young crowds of protesters during the Democratic Partys national convention in August 1968. It wasnt too much of an exaggeration. Television was then a relative novelty in many nations, but images of the confrontations did make it on to news bulletins across the world, showcasing the domestic ugliness of a nation that had witnessed a pair of brutal assassinations that year and was simultaneously engaged in an unwarranted war that was killing hundreds of innocent people every day halfway across the world. Its fatuous claim to be a beacon of democracy was refuted by events that demonstrated the extent to which the US was disinclined to tolerate a diversity of opinions. Since then, attention that domestic events in the US attract worldwide has by and large been commensurate with the military, political and cultural power it exerts. That has inexorably expanded over the decades. Nonetheless, even in the age of 24/7 media and largely unrestrained social networks, it seems strange for something ostensibly as mundane as a Supreme Court appointment to grab the international limelight, arguably to an even greater extent than Donald Trumps farcical performance at the UN. For what its worth, Justice Brett Kavanaughs hysterically partisan tirades during last Thursdays Senate judiciary committee hearing ought instantly to have disqualified him from any post that at least theoretically involves dispassionate judiciousness. Its hardly a state secret, of course, that the US SC features a bench broadly divided between conservatives and liberals. Appointees are nominated by the President and confirmed by Congress, and the appointments are potentially for life. Some things have changed. Among the 10 Democratic members of todays Senate judiciary committee, there are four women and three non-whites. The 11-member Republican majority, meanwhile, remains single-sex and all-white. Which is why they felt obliged to hire a female prosecutor to question Kavanaugh and Prof Christine Blasey Ford, who has accused the nominee of sexually assaulting her when he was 17 and she was 15. Thirty-six years on, she concedes her memory is blurred at the edges, but is certain about her traumatising experience and the identity of the culprit. He denies everything, even the possibility of an alcohol-induced blackout. But at least two other women have come forward with accusations that indicate a disturbing pattern of behaviour. After Republican senator Jeff Flake was accosted in a lift by two sexual assault victims, he insisted on a limited FBI probe before the Senate votes on Kavanaugh. There is a faint possibility that the judge, who holds retrogressive opinions on many crucial issues, will not be confirmed, which would oblige an inevitably incensed Trump to pick another nominee. In that case, the confirmation hearings are likely to lapse beyond the November midterm elections, which may yield a Democratic majority in at least one of the chambers of Congress. All too many Republican legislators, including several who were roundly abused by Trump during the 2016 campaign, have since then loyally served as enablers for a dysfunctional White House, despite occasional mild remonstrations. As for partisanship, lets not forget that the Republican majority refused so much as a hearing to Barack Obamas SC nominee Merrick Garland early in 2016, on the shaky ground that it was an election year. Trump vowed during the campaign to shift the SC to the right, and will be seen by his base as fulfilling that promise. He also claimed he could be best friends with North Koreas Kim Jong-un, and has claimed that it was love at first sight for him and Kim on their first date. One wouldnt have considered either of them a natural fit for the make love, not war camp, but we live in a weird world. Meanwhile, Trump, himself at the receiving end of numerous claims about sexual improprieties, is also infatuated with Brett Kavanaugh. Well know soon enough how that romance turns out, as much of the world looks on. By arrangement with Dawn VATICAN CITY With pews emptying and clouds of scandal hanging over the church, the Vatican on Wednesday opened a three-week assembly to discuss how to bring young people into the fold. As the gathering began, Pope Francis said, This moment has highlighted a church that needs to listen. The pope has said he wants to hear the doubts and criticisms of young people. But the scene not far from the Synod of Bishops, as the assembly is known, suggested that the Roman Catholic Church has its work cut out for it. As synod participants chanted and prayed, some two dozen survivors of clerical sexual abuse were protesting just off the road to St. Peters Basilica. They had traveled from parts of Italy and elsewhere in Europe to denounce what they see as the Vaticans indifference to their demands that abusive priests and those who covered up for them be pursued. ISTANBUL The mystery deepened Wednesday about the fate of a veteran Saudi journalist who entered the countrys consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday afternoon and has not been seen since. The journalist, Jamal Khashoggi, a sharp critic of the Saudi leadership, went to the consulate to obtain a document he needed to get married, but never came out, his fiancee and several close friends said. On Wednesday, the Saudi government said he had left the consulate, the Turkish government said he was still inside, and his fiancee and friends said he was still missing. His fiancee, Hatice, who asked that her surname not be published out of concern for her safety, waited for him outside the consulate until after midnight Tuesday and returned when the consulate reopened on Wednesday morning. Iran, however, took the outcome as vindication. The decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the U.S. sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel, the Foreign Ministry in Tehran said, according to state media. During hearings in August, Iran argued that the United States was strangling the country through naked economic aggression and was violating the Treaty of Amity signed by the two countries on economic relations and consular rights in 1955, long before Irans Islamic revolution turned the them into enemies. Lawyers for the United States had argued that Iran was misusing the court because it had no jurisdiction in the case since the dispute involves American national security. Rulings by the court, which is based in The Hague and settles disputes between nations, are legally binding, though it has no way of enforcing them. In the past, both the United States and Iran have ignored its rulings. Peter Hoekstra, the United States ambassador to the Netherlands, echoed the administrations view, writing on Twitter that the ruling was a meritless case over which the court has no jurisdiction. Wednesdays decision is not expected to change Washingtons course. Mr. Trump had long scorned the 2015 accord, saying in an address in the White House: This was a horrible one-sided deal that should have never, ever been made. It didnt bring calm, it didnt bring peace, and it never will. After Mr. Pompeos announcement, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif of Iran said on Twitter that the United States was an outlaw regime. He praised the courts ruling earlier, saying it marked another failure for the sanctions-addicted United States and victory for rule of law. In legal terms, the United States withdrawal from the 1955 treaty with Iran does not take effect immediately. The treaty remains in place for one year from any announcement of withdrawal, meaning Irans lawsuit will proceed. It was negotiated after the C.I.A. helped stage a coup in Iran that Iranians still cite as a gross violation of the countrys sovereignty. The 1953 coup, code-named Operation Ajax, was engineered by Kermit Roosevelt Jr., a grandson of President Theodore Roosevelt, and installed a government that two years later cemented the treaty with President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The treaty sets up commercial relationships, tax structures and access to each nations courts. None of that has applied since the 1979 Islamic revolution. The treaty with Iran is a weird treaty, said Julian Ku, a professor of constitutional and international law at Hofstra University Law School. We havent been friends with Iran in a long time. Mr. Ku said there have been two other instances since the 1980s in which the United States withdrew from a treaty after an unfavorable ruling by the International Court of Justice. One was during the Reagan administration, in a case brought in 1984 by Nicaragua; the second was in 2005, when the George W. Bush administration lost a case brought by Mexico. Lawyers for the United States had argued that the sanctions dispute with Iran was a matter of American national security, and therefore the court had no jurisdiction to intervene. Rulings by the International Court of Justice are legally binding but difficult to enforce; in the past, both the United States and Iran have ignored its orders. LIMA, Peru Alberto Fujimori, the former Peruvian dictator imprisoned for human rights abuses but then pardoned last year, was ordered back to prison on Wednesday, reigniting debate over the fate of one of the regions most contentious figures. Human rights advocates hailed the ruling, but Mr. Fujimoris defiant supporters and his politically powerful daughter, Keiko, gathered outside his house on Wednesday to condemn it. This is persecution against my family, Ms. Fujimori said. It was the latest dramatic turn for Mr. Fujimori, 80, who ruled as a dictator in the 1990s after suspending the Constitution, only to land in a prison cell when he tried to stage a political comeback in the early 2000s. He was freed last December, but his fate was reversed again on Wednesday, with the Supreme Court issuing orders for his arrest so he would be returned to penitentiary, according to a statement released on Twitter. Russia is under pressure from Western actions seeking to constrain its international political and economic activity. The backdrop to President Vladimir Putins visit to India this week for the traditional annual India-Russia summit is a turbulent geopolitical landscape, scarred by acrimony of unprecedented proportions between the United States and Russia, the harsh American rhetoric on China and a Russia-China strategic partnership progressing towards a military alliance. These developments are likely to dominate the agenda of the discussions between Mr Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in addition to the extensive bilateral cooperation. Russia is under pressure from Western actions seeking to constrain its international political and economic activity. The scope of US sanctions has widened to target countries with major defence and energy cooperation with Russia. Its efforts to broker political solutions to crises in Ukraine, Syria and Afghanistan have been stymied by US-led counter-measures. India is in the crosshairs of the US sanctions legislation Countering Americas Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) because of its defence cooperation with Russia. The principal focus is on the air defence system, S-400, which is deemed to be a significant defence transaction, attracting CAATSA. American officials have openly admitted that the primary criterion for invoking CAATSA would be US commercial interests in other words, to persuade countries to acquire US weapons instead. India argues that the S-400 and other systems under procurement or negotiation are important for its defence preparedness. Even as India diversifies its sources of defence acquisitions and the US defence industry has been the principal beneficiary of this in recent years there will remain, for the foreseeable future, a preponderance of Russian equipment with our armed forces. From all indications, India will go ahead with the S-400 acquisition. Whether or how this decision will be projected at the summit bears watching. A raft of other India-Russia defence cooperation projects is also in the pipeline, including helicopters, frigates and submarines, with emphasis on fitting them into the Make in India template. They are not sufficiently significant to attract CAATSA, especially since they may not impact US commercial interests. There is expanding collaboration in energy nuclear and hydrocarbons including mutual investments and Indias imports. Initiatives aiming to make economic cooperation commensurate with its potential are on the agenda of every India-Russia summit. Afghanistan and Pakistan will also be on the summit agenda. Afghanistan is now an arena of intense US-Russian rivalry, with both pushing their peace initiatives in that country. The US accuses Russia of abetting and arming the Taliban. On its part, Russia accuses the US and its allies of threatening its security by facilitating movement of Islamic terrorist elements to Afghanistans borders with Central Asia. Russia sought to involve the Taliban in a political process in Afghanistan. The US blocked it, while initiating its own dialogue with the Taliban. India has concerns with both approaches. They have been discussed in recent high-level meetings with the US; the opportunity of clarifying Russian perspectives would be valuable. Russias relations with Pakistan have recently attracted considerable attention in India. There have been exchanges of political, defence and economic delegations, joint military exercises and training of Pakistani military personnel in Russian defence institutions. At the same time, the Russian defence establishment has been careful to signal that no new supply of weapons to Pakistan is on the anvil (after the four attack helicopters supplied in 2016). As India diversifies its international relations and strategic partnerships, its leverage with Russia on its other relations in South Asia diminishes. It needs to ensure, however, that its political and security interests are not compromised. Of greater concern to India should be the current direction of Russia-China relations. As both Russia and China feel the heat of US hostility, their strategic partnership is elevating to an even higher plane, including transfers of defence technologies, closer military cooperation and political coordination on the Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan. India needs to insulate its political, defence and strategic interests from this tightening embrace. India and Russia have some shared perspectives on Iran support for the 2015 international nuclear deal, which the United States has unilaterally junked, and opposition to sanctions on Iran. India has urged the US to exempt its Chabahar port project from Americas new Iran sanctions, because of its importance for Afghanistans trade access to the outside world. Chabahar could acquire greater importance as the node for a trade corridor from South and Southeast Asia to Central Asia, as well as to Russia and further on to Europe. This International North-South Transport Corridor is a much shorter and cheaper trade route between Asia and Europe, compared to the existing sea route. Negotiations between India, Russia and Iran for activation of this corridor had advanced considerably after the 2015 nuclear deal presaged dismantling of international sanctions against Iran. India and Russia could strategise on taking this project forward in the present changed circumstances of fresh US sanctions. The current global geopolitical flux has compelled countries to recalibrate bilateral partnerships as dictated by national interests. India and Russia are no exception the texture of the relationship has subtly altered in recent years. The two leaders would be conscious of this reality, but also of the fact that, though the exclusivity of the partnership has been diluted, there remains a large canvas of mutual interests. The nature of challenges to the relationship in the broader international environment merits frank dialogue at the highest levels, in an atmosphere of mutual trust. This should be facilitated by the extraordinary chemistry that has developed between the two leaders, as most recently evidenced at their informal summit in Sochi in May, when they spent over seven hours together in a single day. Analysts would be closely watching for public signals from the summit on CAATSA, Iran sanctions, Pakistan, Afghanistan and China. It would be interesting to see how India walks the fine line of preserving the critical elements of its strategic partnership with Russia, without degrading that with the United States. Many of the answers may be found, not in explicit articulations, but between the lines of the joint statement and background briefings. The writer, a retired Indian diplomat, is the convenor of the National Security Advisory Board. The views expressed here are personal. This map of where Chinas retaliatory tariffs threaten American jobs the most President Trump may have been overstating things when he argued from a United Nations podium last week that the Chinese were going after American farm products to hurt his political base because they do not want me or us to win. But China clearly would like to send a signal to rural American voters. Mapping the counties that voted for Mr. Trump in 2016 and those affected by Chinas tariffs shows the extent to which Trump voters jobs rely on the products being targeted. Beijing hopes it can convince those voters and their elected representatives that the presidents trade war could hurt them. Over the summer, the Chinese took aim at Mitch McConnell, the Senate majority leader. In his home state, Kentucky, 18,000 jobs depend on whiskey. So they put a 25 percent tariff on it. Representative Paul D. Ryan, the House speaker, is from Wisconsin, a leading producer of cranberries. So cranberries were added to the list, for good measure. And China went after pork and soybeans, two of the leading farm products in Iowa, home of Charles E. Grassley, a powerful member of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Forty percent of our exports are now under punitive tariffs, said Jim Monroe, a spokesman for the National Pork Producers Council. Share of all export-dependent jobs that are threatened by tariffs within counties won by: Trump 8.1% Clinton 3.2% The Chinese arent the only ones playing this game. Mexico also took aim at whiskey. So did the European Union. And Canada. Mexico added pressure on Mr. Grassleys voters with a tariff on pork. The European Union sent a message to the House speaker by singling out motorcycles delivering a blow to Harley-Davidson, which is based in his state. While trade relations with Mexico and Canada may be more cordial now that they have reached a deal with the United States to revamp the North American Free Trade Agreement, Mexican and Canadian tariffs are likely to remain in place until the Trump administration lifts its original protectionist measures. With China, the war remains hot. Last month, Mr. Trump announced tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports to top off the original list of $50 billion. China has announced retaliation on a total of $110 billion worth of goods from the United States. The target lists drawn up by the United States four largest trading partners show a similar pattern. Other retaliatory tariffs were politically aimed as well Mexicos tariffs 0.2% 1.4% 5.2% Share of all export-dependent jobs that are threatened Canadas tariffs 0.7% 3.2% 14% European Unions tariffs 0.3% 1.1% 5.8% Mexicos tariffs 0.2% 1.4% 5.2% Share of all export-dependent jobs that are threatened Canadas tariffs 0.7% 3.2% 14% European Unions tariffs 0.3% 1.1% 5.8% Mexicos tariffs Canadas tariffs European Unions tariffs 0.2% 1.4% 5.2% 0.7% 3.2% 14% 0.3% 1.1% 5.8% Share of all export-dependent jobs that are threatened Mexicos tariffs Canadas tariffs European Unions tariffs 0.2% 1.4% 5.2% 0.7% 3.2% 14% 0.3% 1.1% 5.8% Share of all export-dependent jobs that are threatened Mexicos tariffs Canadas tariffs European Unions tariffs 0.2% 1.4% 5.2% 0.7% 3.2% 14% 0.3% 1.1% 5.8% Share of all export-dependent jobs that are threatened Joseph Parilla and Max Bouchet of the Brookings Institution have analyzed the impact of the tariffs placed on $121 billion worth of American exports, about 6 percent of the nations total. About 650,000 people are employed in industries exposed to the new tariffs, they estimated. This includes both workers who make or grow the designated products and those indirectly dependent on their export. Think of the workers assembling Harleys on the shop floor and the truck drivers hauling finished hogs to port. The geography of the retaliation two rounds from China and one each from Mexico, the European Union and Canada reveals the common calculations. Tariffs are, in the first instance, a shot in the foot. They raise the cost of imports, hurting domestic consumers as well as companies that import intermediate goods from steel to integrated circuits that go into their finished products. In designing a retaliation package, a primary objective is to limit self-inflicted harm. The first priority is that the tariffs should have a minimum impact on prices of basic consumer goods in Mexico, the second that they dont disrupt our value chains, including products which have alternative sources of supply, said Guillermo Malpica Soto, who heads the office dealing with trade and Nafta for Mexicos Economy Ministry in Washington. Political messaging comes in third. We choose states where we can create the right political incentives to get this resolved soon, Mr. Malpica said. The objective, at least at the beginning, did not require much precision targeting. Other countries could hit mostly Republican-held, pro-Trump enclaves simply by focusing on steel and aluminum much of which comes from the declining industrial areas that delivered the Midwest to the president and agricultural goods from rural America, which remains deeply Republican. Even Canadas retaliation, which Ottawa said was dictated strictly by reciprocity, weighs more heavily on Mr. Trumps supporters. Trump and his supporters were bigger targets The Brookings researchers estimated that 13 percent of export-dependent jobs in rural America were affected by the tariffs, in that they depend either directly or indirectly on products hit by tariffs. Big, diverse cities with large service economies are somewhat more insulated. In large metropolitan areas, only 3.5 percent of export-dependent jobs are exposed. 30 % 25 20 Counties Clinton won Share of all export- dependent jobs that are threatened Trend line Counties Trump won 0 0 10% 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 Trumps share of county election votes 30 % 25 20 Share of all export- dependent jobs that are threatened Trend line 10 Counties Clinton won Counties Trump won 5 0 0 10% 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 Trumps share of county election votes 30 % 25 20 Share of all export- dependent jobs that are threatened 15 Trend line 10 Counties Clinton won Counties Trump won 5 0 0 10% 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 Trumps share of county election votes 30 % 25 20 Share of all export- dependent jobs that are threatened 15 Trend line 10 Counties Clinton won Counties Trump won 5 0 0 10% 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 Trumps share of county election votes But choosing targets has become more difficult. Chad P. Bown at the Peterson Institute for International Economics notes that China was more precise in its first round of retaliation focused heavily on agricultural products than in its second round in September. By then it had exhausted its agricultural imports from the United States and had to put tariffs on lots of intermediate goods, parts and components that lack the same political impact and might damage supply chains at home. Will any of this work? Tariffs do change behavior. In 1971, President Richard M. Nixon imposed a 10 percent tariff across the board in the hope of forcing Japan, Germany and some other countries to revalue their currencies. The tactic worked within months. In the 1980s, tariffs on Italian wine and French cheese helped persuade the European Union to put its Common Agricultural Policy on the negotiating table in the talks that created the World Trade Organization. Retaliation can be an effective defense. The Smoot-Hawley tariffs of 1930, imposed by Congress on 800 imported products, as varied as wool and goldfish, are the most notable precedent for the trade war that Mr. Trump seems to have in mind. They set off a tit-for-tat brawl that stifled trade around the world, lengthening the Great Depression. But Douglas Irwin, a trade historian at Dartmouth College, argues that the retaliation by American trading partners made a difference. Republicans werent swayed. But once Democrats took over the government in 1933, they heeded the pleas of Southern agricultural interests shut out of European markets. In 1934 President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act and set off a cascade of tariff reductions. Those episodes are hardly perfect analogies. But history does suggest its best to hit back. It inflicts a political cost and acts as a deterrent, Professor Irwin said. If he didnt face a political cost, who knows what Trump would do? He still has a further $250 billion or so worth of Chinese imports to hit. BEIRUT, Lebanon For nearly five months, Iraqi politicians have wrangled over the shape of their new government. The bloc led by Moktada al-Sadr, the former Shiite militia leader and longtime American enemy, won the most votes in the May election. He had rebranded himself as an Iraq First populist, vowing to fight corruption, opposing both American and Iranian intervention, and promising a new nonsectarian politics. This week, the wrangling ended and Iraqis got new evidence that perhaps he meant what he said. On Wednesday, an honor guard stood at attention as Iraqs new head of state, President Barham Salih, entered the presidential palace in Baghdads Green Zone, a day after designating Adel Abdul Mahdi as prime minister. Both leaders, chosen by consensus in Parliament on Tuesday, were widely seen as capable technocrats. Mr. Abdul Mahdi, who will take the top job, is a former vice president who is unaffiliated with any party and has a reputation for secularism. Mr. Salih, whose post is largely ceremonial, is a Kurdish politician who favors working with the central government in Baghdad. The bringing down of the Russian aircraft has created fresh uncertainties in the complex Syrian scenario. On September 17, two developments impacted on Russias interests in Syria. One, in a reversal of his earlier dismissive position, President Vladimir Putin, at a five-hour meeting at Sochi, agreed to accommodate Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans insistence that the military attack on Idlib, the last major bastion of the Syrian opposition, be postponed and he be given more time to arrange a peaceful end to the confrontation between the rebels and government forces. Two, a few hours after the Sochi agreement, during an Israeli air attack near Latakia, Syrian retaliatory anti-aircraft fire brought down a Russian military plane, killing 15 Russian military personnel on board. Despite Israeli protestations, Russia asserted that an Israeli plane had deliberately pushed the Russian aircraft into the line of fire. These two developments have further complicated the already convoluted Syrian scenario. The Sochi agreement is a major concession by President Putin. While anxious to avoid a bloodbath in that city with three million people, many of them refugees from other cities, he sees Idlib overrun by 50,000-90,000 militants, including a few thousand elements of the Al Qaeda-affiliated Jabhat Nusra, and is sceptical about a peaceful outcome. However, he recognises the high stakes for President Erdogan: Turkey supports a moderate opposition group, the National Liberation Front (NLF), made up of Arab and Turkoman fighters, as a counter-weight to the Syrian Kurds, and wishes to ensure they are not annihilated in a full-scale government assault on Idlib. Turkey is also concerned that the battle will lead to thousands of refugees swarming across the Turkish border for safety. Mr Putin backed Mr Erdogans interests at Sochi to retain Turkey, a Nato member but long estranged from the United States, as a regional ally and as a partner, with Iran, in the Russia-led Astana peace process in Syria. Thus, following Sochi, Mr Erdogan has agreed to set up a 15-20 km buffer zone at Idlib by October 15 that will separate government and rebel forces and will be jointly patrolled by Russian and Turkish military units. By October 10, all militants in Idlib will have to surrender their heavy weapons, including tanks, mortars and heavy artillery. Turkey will then have the responsibility of separating the moderate opposition from the extremist elements, including Jabhat Nusra. Militants will have the option of joining the moderate opposition, the NLF, or leave Idlib. Those who retain their weapons and remain in the city could be subjected to targeted attacks. This process should end by December 10. Mr Putin has said that by end-December, the Aleppo-Latakia and Aleppo-Hama highways, passing through Idlib, will become functional. For Turkey, separating the moderates from the extremists will be difficult. While some extremists could merge with mainstream opposition groups as a tactical ploy, hardcore radicals may not surrender jihadi ideologue Abu Mohammed al Maqdisi has declared Mr Erdogan an apostate, while Jabhat Nusra fighters have refused to give up their weapons. It is also feared that some extremists could sneak into Turkey and carry out terrorist operations. An important area of uncertainty is the fate of some 3,000 foreign militant fighters at Idlib, mainly from Uzbekistan, Chechnya and some Uighurs from China. While some had earlier joined the Islamic State, most of them have remained with Jabhat Nusra. They form a lethal component of the Hayat Tahrir al Sham alliance of hardline groups, mainly located in the town of Jisr al-Shughour, southwest of Idlib. They are expected to fight hard against the government assault. Most regional commentators believe that the Turkish peace initiative will fail and military operations, backed by Russian air support, could even begin from mid-October. The bringing down of the Russian aircraft has created fresh uncertainties in the complex Syrian scenario. It had initially revealed a rare public divide between Mr Putin and his defence establishment: Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu said that Israel bore full responsibility for the attack, while Mr Putin attempted to defuse the situation by saying it was caused by a chain of tragic chance events. The Russian military, however, firmly rejected a presentation by the Israeli air chief in Moscow blaming Syria for the loss, and saying that its aircraft had returned home when the Russian aircraft was hit. Russia and Israel have worked closely in Syria over the last three years, with Russia quietly accepting at least 200 Israeli air attacks in the last 18 months. This cordial relationship is part of Russias interest to be close to all players in West Asia to enhance its influence by filling the vacuum left by an inert and directionless United States, and promote stability in the conflict-ridden region. Israel has also benefited from the relationship since Russia alone seems capable of restraining Iranian military activity in Syria. By facilitating the attack on the Russian aircraft, Israel had perhaps wished to convey to Moscow that it retained the right to safeguard its security interests despite its ties with Russia. Now, though, Israel seems anxious to mend ties with Russia its earlier aggressive public posturing has become more muted. A week after the attack, Russia revealed its iron hand. On September 24, its defence spokesperson accused Israel of criminal negligence and ungratefulness. He recalled the various ways in which Russia had been accommodating Israels interests in Syria, most recently by ensuring that Iranian forces were kept 140 km from the Israeli border at Golan Heights during operations in southeast Syria. He then announced that Syrian capabilities would be enhanced to deter future attacks with the S-300 missile systems that have been on the Syrian wishlist for five years. Again, Syrian defence units would now be able to electronically jam onboard radar communications and satellite navigation systems. While this will restrict Israeli attacks in Syria, it is likely that Russia and Israel will soon be drawn together by their shared interests. There are even suggestions that the new military facilities in Syria will remain under Russian control. Meanwhile, at Idlib, we can expect military action soon after Turkeys President Erdogan has taken his moderate rebels to safety, when jihadis will engage in their final battle. Peace in Syria remains elusive. Given Pakistan's influence over the Taliban, the Trump administration also wants Islamabad to bring them to the peace table. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, right, meets Pakistani Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi at the State Department in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018. (Photo | AP) Washington: There is unlikely to be any changes in America's policy on suspension of aid to Pakistan until it makes substantial progress against terrorists and their safe havens, the Trump administration has told Islamabad as the two countries try to reset their strained ties. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, during their meetings with Pakistan's new Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi here, are understood to have told the Pakistani leadership that in its assessment the US does not see any changes on the ground when it comes to taking actions against terrorists operating from its soil. Given Pakistan's influence over the Taliban, the Trump administration also wants Islamabad to bring them to the peace table. Notably, the State Department till late in the night had refrained from issuing any readout of the meeting between Qureshi and Pompeo, which is understood to have lasted for 20 minutes at their Foggy Bottom headquarters. The White House normally does not issue a readout of the meeting that its National Security Advisor has with foreign leaders. Qureshi and Pompeo did appear for a hand-shake photo op before the meeting, during which they did not issue opening remarks. According to informed sources familiar with the development, the US side is upset because of Qureshi's faux pas about handshake he had with President Donald Trump during a luncheon in New York, which he described to the media as meeting. Meanwhile in a readout of the meetings, the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington said that Qureshi had a wide range of discussions with both Pompeo and Bolton which included among others bilateral and regional issues. Qureshi said that close engagement between Pakistan and the US had always been mutually beneficial and a factor for stability in South Asia. He stressed that, going forward, a broad-based and structured framework for dialogue would best serve the two countries' shared interests, the statement said. Noting that Pakistan and the US share a common desire for peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region at large, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's support for a political settlement in Afghanistan, saying use of force had failed to deliver results. Qureshi told Pompeo that "peace in South Asia, which was a common goal for both the US and Pakistan, would remain elusive until all disputes, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir, are resolved". Pompeo, according to the embassy statement, said the US looked forward to working with the new government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan in implementing its reform agenda. "In the context of achieving stability in South Asia, Qureshi briefed his US interlocutor about India's aggressive posturing in the region. "Qureshi underscored that, on its part, Pakistan remained committed to engaging India in a comprehensive peace dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute," the statement added. The ties between the two countries strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists. Last month, the Trump administration cancelled USD 300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups active on its soil. Man threatened to publish defamatory libel concerning Zaidi, global head at Standard Chartered Bank, unless he paid SGD 500,000. Nagarajan Balajee faces a jail term of between two and five years and caning under a charge of 'attempting to commit extortion'. (Representational Image) Singapore: A 35-year-old Indian man, who tried to extort half-a-million Singapore dollars from Standard Chartered Bank in Singapore, was charged in court. Nagarajan Balajee faces a jail term of between two and five years and caning under a charge of "attempting to commit extortion," Singapore-based newspaper The Straits Times reported today. According to court documents, Balajee had allegedly threatened to publish a defamatory libel concerning Aalishaan Zaidi, 47, the global head of digital banking at Standard Chartered Bank, unless he paid SGD 500,000. Zaidi was one of a few bank employees who received the threatening e-mails sent anonymously. He made the police report on the bank's behalf. Balajee was arrested on September 30 along Kovan Road in suburbun Singapore. Several laptops and mobile phones were seized from him in connection with the case, the police said. The bank had made a police report last Thursday about how it had been threatened with a leakage of confidential information. Balajee is believed to have used multiple fictitious e-mail accounts to deliver the threats to the bank anonymously, according to Singapore-based newspaper The Straits Times. Preliminary investigations by the police also found that he might have used overseas registered mobile lines and virtual private network (VPN) services to mask his identity, to evade detection. VPNs allow unauthorised content from overseas to be accessed by users. Balajee is currently out on SGD 20,000 bail and will be back in court on October 30. Yungar, a remote town in the Peruvian Andes, has been receiving worldwide attention in the past couple of weeks, because of the efforts of a man named Lenin to stop one of the candidates, named Hitler, from running in the upcoming municipal elections. Hitler Alba Sanchez, also known as Hitler of the Andes or The Good Hitler, has already served as mayor of Yungar between 2011 and 2014, and he is now trying out for a second term. However, his candidacy was challenged by a local man called Lenin Vladimir Rodriguez Valverde, who claimed that Hitler wasnt eligible because of his previous term as mayor. The attempt to sabotage The Good Hitlers election ultimately failed, but the bizarre coincidence of these two mens names has become an international news topic. Alba Sanchez claims that he doesnt know Lenin or his motives for attacking his campaign, but he suspects that he is affiliated with opposition parties. Hes not too worried about it though, as he is convinced that people remember the good he did during his first term and will turn out to vote for him on October 7. The Good Hitler returns to these elections with the support of friends and sympathizers, the 37-year-old candidate told RPP. We have always done good and people know us. Well have to wait a few more days to see if Hitler once again becomes mayor of Yungar, but in the meantime, people have been curious to know how and why his parents named him after one of the most hated figures in human history. Alba Sanchez claims that foreign names were very popular in Peru during the 1980s, and his father, who didnt know anything about Adolf Hitler, herd the name one time and liked it because it sounded foreign. He was never a Nazi sympathizer or an admirer of the German dictator, and Alba Sanchez himself condemned the actions and ideology of his namesake, adding that the name is the only thing they have in common. Asked if he ever considered changing his name, the Hitler of the Andes told Peruvian reporters that he had did want to do that at some point, but he had already entered politics, and all his friends and supporters knew him by his first name, so changing it just wasnt practical. The mayoral candidate admitted that his name sometimes caused awkward moments, even within his family. For example, one time, they were watching a documentary on the Holocaust and his young daughter started arguing with the narrator, saying my dad is not evil. Her mother ended up changing the channel to avoid causing her more heartache. Samelyn Lafuente, a young primary school teacher from Masbate City, in the Philippines, spent the last three years turning a bland classroom into a little girls real-life fantasy, decked in pink and full of Hello Kitty-themed decorations. Walking into Samelyn Lafuentes classroom, you would be tempted to think that its an obsessed Hello Kitty fans shrine to the popular Japanese character. The floor is covered with a Hello Kitty-themed carpet, the walls are all pink, as are the school desks, and there are Hello Kitty decorations everywhere, hanging from the ceiling, plastered on the walls and even in the windows. It would be fair to assume that parents of little girls in Ms. Lafuentes class must be struggling to pull them away from this real-life fantasy in pink every day, which is just what the teacher planned all along to create a place where her students would be happy and enjoy their time at school. Photo: Glay Franco Bacolod/Facebook Photos of this pink Hello Kitty classroom were shared on Facebook by Glay Franco Bacolod, and quickly went viral in several Asian countries, including in China. People are praising Samelyn Lafuente for going above and beyond to ensure the happiness of her young students, even if it meant paying for everything out of her own pocket. The teacher said that almost all the decorations in her unique classroom were bought with her own money, but that seeing the happiness in the childrens eyes every day makes it all worth it. Lafuente told GMA News that the transformation of her classroom occurred over the last three years, as she steadily added more pink and new decorations to it. Im doing it for them, I love them, the teacher said. JMPR Public Relations has been named agency of record for Red Line Synthetic Oil, a supplier of synthetic lubricants and additives for the automotive, motorcycle, marine and powersports markets. JMPR will support the company by bringing awareness to the brand and assisting it with product launches and sponsorship announcements. The agency will also work to curate social media initiatives aimed at Red Line Synthetic Oils target audience. Red Line director of marketing Kit Szwarcburg said that the company selected JMPR because of its strong history of elevating its automotive aftermarket clients. Laura Davidson Public Relations has been selected as public relations agency of record for the Bequia Beach Hotel. The agency will showcase the resort and island's experiences and personalities though a multi-faceted media relations program, engaging with influencers and setting up collaborations with like-minded lifestyle brands to elevate positioning. The 56-room property, a family-owned resort located on Bequia Island in the Caribbeans St. Vincent and the Grenadines, was built by entrepreneur Bengt Mortstedt. The hotel offers various accommodation options, as well as three dining venues and a spa. Guests also have access to the propertys yacht. LDPRs client roster also includes Antiguas Curtain Bluff Resort and the Marigot Bay Resort and Marina on Saint Lucia. Hampton Bates Public Relations has been named agency of choice by Diamond Key Security, a provider of next-generation infrastructure cryptographic solutions. The agencys efforts will focus on launching a fundraising program to support and promote the Diamond Key Security brand and expand fundraising connections for Diamond Keys not-for-profit platform. Hampton Bates will also provide a variety of communications services, including PR, fundraising messaging and management, media relations, leadership giving and other fund development activities. Lisa Ruiz-Rogers ROX United, a part of United Collective, has named Lisa Ruiz-Rogers managing director. Ruiz-Rogers joins ROX United from Citizen Relations, where she was a senior vice president, leading a portfolio of Procter & Gamble brands. Her responsibilities included building global and regional communications programs and development of strategic 360 consumer media relations plans including digital content. Previously, Ruiz-Rogers was vice president at MSL Group and she has worked at Blaze PR, Bob Gold & Associates and FCB Healthcare. Ruiz-Rogers will serve as a valuable asset as we look to carve out new space in the industry, said ROX United president and founder Roxana Lissa. Her excellent thought leadership and expertise in business-building strategies lend support to our agencys growth goals as we help brands connect with diverse populations in the U.S. Alexander Lange Washington, D.C. based strategic communications firm Trident DMG has hired Alexander Lange as director. Lange comes to Trident from LEVICK, where he was a director, handling some of the firms most visible clients in a wide range of high-stakes criminal and civil litigation. He has also worked for the U.S. Department of Defense and in local prosecutors offices in both Virginia and the District of Columbia. At Trident, he advises clients with regard to litigation, government investigations, public controversies, crises and sensitive matters. Trident has also recently brought on Keegan Bales as a senior account manager and Caroline Beckmann and Matthew Stone as account managers. Trident DMG was founded in 2016 by Josh Galper, Adam Goldberg, Eleanor McManus, and Lanny Davis. Jaclyn Messina Schwartz Media Strategies has brought on Jaclyn Messina as vice president. Messina joins Schwartz from rbb Communications, where she was a senior account director. Before that, she was an account supervisor at Max Borges Agency. She has also served as a writer and producer for CNN and WNYW FOX 5 in New York City. In her new post, she is developing and executing strategic media relations and digital marketing initiatives for clients in the legal, accounting, hospitality and wealth management sectors. Schwartz has also hired Kelly Magee as an account director, Lucas Seiler as a senior account executive and Victoria Sela as an account coordinator. A midlands vehicle testing firm found guilty of breaching health and safety laws in the testing of a school bus subsequently involved in a fatal crash in Offaly has lost an appeal against its conviction. The bus went out of control near Clara, Co Offaly, on April 4, 2006 in a single vehicle incident which tragically took the life of schoolboy Michael White (15) who died as a result of serious injuries he sustained. The accident was directly linked to a failure of the vehicles rear suspension, which caused the back axle to detach while it was being driven with catastrophic consequences. The Court of Appeal heard that the Mercedes vehicle, which was originally registered in the UK, was carrying more than 30 students on a school run. It had what was called leaf spring suspension on the rear axel but, in or around 1991, this was modified or converted in the UK in the knowledge of British regulatory authorities. Thereafter, the bus was registered in Ireland in 2001 and had a Certificate of Roadworthiness, issued by a city or county council, at the relevant time. OReilly Commercials Limited, of Ballinalack, Mullingar, Co Westmeath, had pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to four charges of breaching health and safety laws when carrying out an official test on the bus between August 5 and 6, 2005. The charges, brought under the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989, had alleged the firm failed to ensure persons were not exposed to risks to their safety or health as a result of the way the test was carried out. A jury found the firm guilty of failing to note the modified rear suspension system in the course of a test carried out by it, OReilly Commercials, between August 5 and 6, 2005. Verdicts of not guilty were returned on the remaining three counts and the company was fined 25,000 by Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan on July 29, 2013. The Court of Appeal upheld the firms conviction on Wednesday, October 3 holding that the trial was satisfactory and the verdict safe. Mr Justice John Edwards, who sat with President of the Court of Appeal Mr Justice George Birmingham and Mr Justice John Hedigan, said the three-judge court had rejected all seven of the firms complaints and the appeal was therefore dismissed. The prosecutions case was that the vehicle was tested by OReilly Commercials on August 6, 2005 and failed in certain respects (not related to modified rear suspension). It was then re-presented for re-test on September 1 and passed. The prosecution relied primarily on a statement by the Managing Director in the firm, Mr David OReilly, to an HSA Inspector in October 2008 in that respect. The defence maintained that all that had occurred in August 2005 was an informal pre-test inspection to identify issues that required to be addressed. Central to the defence's case was that the test was carried out on September 1, not in August, and as a consequence, the 1989 Act did not apply because by the time the test had been carried out, as contended by the defence, that Act had been repealed. Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions, Caroline Biggs SC, said the test took place on August 6 and the retest was on September 1. Ms Biggs said that statement came from the horse's mouth and was evidence on the face of it that the first stage of the test was carried out in August. She said the date on which the test was carried out was a question of fact for resolution by the jury. The jury knew the significance of the date, Ms Biggs said, and it had been explained to the jury throughout. In opening its appeal, counsel for O'Reilly Commercials, Sean Gillane SC, said the background to the case involved a tragic accident and the death of a young schoolboy. That fact was not lost on the company, who was the authorised tester and had a very good reputation in the testing business, Mr Gillane said. by Bernardo Cervellera Sister Teresina Cheng was invited as an auditor. From her work experience in an office she decided to dedicate her life to the youth of China, marked by loneliness, distance of parents, by worries for the future. "For young Chinese the term 'faith' is abstract ... their most real and beautiful desires are almost buried in their hearts". Vatican City (AsiaNews) - Her name is Sister Teresina Cheng, she is 30 years old and is one of the auditors at the Synod on Youth, which begins today. She was the only Chinese present, until the announcement that two bishops would come from China. Sister Teresina entered a Hebei convent in 2004. She has not yet made her perpetual profession, but after an experience of working in an office, she has one thing clear: she wants to dedicate her life to helping young Chinese people, marked by loneliness, distance of parents, from worries about the future. Here is the interview she gave to AsiaNews. Sister Teresina, how was your vocation born? I started attending church. Listening to the priest during his homilies, I did not understand much of what he was saying, but my heart was happy. Then I thought to myself: If I become a nun, I will have the opportunity to participate in Mass every day. With this thought in mind, I began to attend vocational groups. So in 2004 I entered my congregation. I really liked community life. But since I was very young and had not attended high school, my congregation invited me to attend school outside. After three years I returned to the convent, but I realized how I was no longer used to living in community. So I asked to do a work experience outside the convent. During the working period, sharing life with my colleagues, all young people, I realized how much these young people really needed help. I told myself that I would have dedicated my life to helping young people. Six months later I returned to the community and I continued on my journey towards final vows. What is life like for young Chinese people? Today's society seems to be less secure and stable than it used to be. Many young people live in a constant state of worry and fear. Their parents work constantly: many of them are away from home all year long for work, and ignore the real needs of their children. Without the presence of parents, the most important thing in the lives of young people is material goods, money, and online friendships. Young people also have a lot of pressure regarding work; there is a lot of competition between them. The rapid development of the virtual world means that many young people depend on the internet: a perfect world, where you can live the life you want, but avoiding facing the real reality, the true self. The Internet becomes a shelter from the inner solitude and the confusion of real life. Everyone in the world is eager for social harmony and peace. Young Chinese are no exception, but sometimes they do not seem to know how to achieve these goals. Often, following the crowd, their most true and beautiful desires remain almost buried in their hearts, vague, unknown. Young people are hungry and eager for the company of mature adults, good and authentic guides; they are very creative, able to take on their responsibilities, including sacrifices. Young people are eager to be tolerated, accepted, encouraged and recognized by society. How is religious faith seen among young people? For young Chinese the term "faith" is abstract. At most, their faith is what they have received from their parents. But their personal relationship with God is not profound. In China, then, the percentage of faithful belonging to the Catholic Church is very low. For example, in universities, young Catholics are afraid of revealing themselves as such, for fear of being considered "strange" or a minority. So however it is difficult to maintain a solid faith, which is in danger of fading. Certainly there are also young people interested in the Christian life, who on their own initiative come to ask to know the Church better, attend the catechumenate and activities in the parishes. A beautiful and comforting thing is that during the holidays some young people invite the sisters to participate and conduct their spiritual retreats. But these cases are not very frequent. At 58, the member of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan is a veteran politician. For Patriarch Sako, he is committed to "true reconciliation" against tensions and controversies. He is respected leader and a source of hope, says Mgr Yaldo, who views citizenship as a fundamental basis of the country. Baghdad (AsiaNews) Card Louis Raphael Sako "welcomed with great pleasure" the election of Barham Salih as Iraqs new president. The Chaldean Patriarch urges the moderate Kurdish leader "to serve all Iraqis", build "a strong civil state", and "face the many challenges" that lay ahead. The cardinal, who sent his message to AsiaNews for wider release, hopes to see the new president engage in greater efforts to achieve "true reconciliation" both in the government and the country, with "disputes and tensions" put aside. Salih, a member of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), was elected yesterday, defeating his main rival, Fuad Hussein, of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), by a margin of 219 votes to 22. After his election, Salih took the oath of office pledging to safeguard Iraqs unity and safety. Since the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime, the largely ceremonial post of head of state has been reserved to a Kurdish leader. Among his duties, the president is responsible, within 15 days of his election, for the appointment of a prime minister tasked with forming a new government. A few hours after his election, Salih named Adel Abdul Mahdi, a former Oil and Finance Minister, as prime minister designate. Experts view Mr Mahdi as a compromise candidate liked by both by the United States and Iran. Mahdis name was put forward by radical Shia leader Moqtada al-Sadr, whose coalition won last Mays parliamentary election but without an absolute majority. The 58-year-old Barham Salih is considered a moderate, and served as prime minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government. An engineer by training in Britain, he was forced into exile under Saddam Hussein. Most of his political life has been with PUK. Electing a president was a source of tensions and divisions between the two main Kurdish parties, the PUK and Massoud Barzanis KDP, reflecting deeper cleavages in Iraqs Kurdish population, something that came into the open during last years independence referendum. Now the new president will have to try to reconcile Kurds and the country as a whole. For Mgr Basel Yaldo, the auxiliary bishop of Baghdad and the Patriarch Sakos right-hand man, choosing Salih brings hope because he is a veteran politician even though he is still young. He has held various offices and is a capable and balanced leader. The prelate told AsiaNews that the new president is a "moderate and guarantor of unity", which is fundamental for rebuilding the country. Like Patriarch Sako, the new president "strongly insists on the element of citizenship, not religious faith or ethnicity, as a fundamental basis of the Iraqi nation and society". Mgr Yaldo noted that Salih was part of the interim government set up after Saddams fall and served as deputy prime minister under Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. For the prelate, "He will be a good president because he has great experience and is known and appreciated internationally. With him we have established good relations and he has great personal affection for us and Patriarch Sako." Oneida, N.Y. The City of Oneida Common Council is looking to make a few new hires for this coming year. The two positions are for a second codes enforcement officer and a temporary second water superintendent. Water Superintendent Art Smolinski is retiring by January and the city of Oneida is looking to hire another water superintendent for the time being to shadow Smolinski and learn more about the job, before taking the position officially. Ward 4 Councilor Helen Acker asked the council if the city has funds in the budget for the position. We havent determined yet a start date or how much funds well need, so its possible it will be in the water departments budget, Comptroller Lee Ann Wells said. Well know better with a start date. Well get it in November or December. That will give us October to interview and we already have some candidates, Mayor Leo Matzke said. Ward 2 Councilor Michael Bowe made a motion to table the amendment to the 2018 budget for the second codes officer for further discussion with the council during executive session; this was seconded by Ward 3 Councilor Jim Coulthart. Local resident Robert Britton said he felt very strongly a second codes officer is needed, saying he has called the office multiple times and has had trouble getting a response. The Dispatch reached out to Codes Enforcement Officer Pat Baron but did not receive a response in time for print. The city of Oneida is looking to combine multiple departments together into one single codes office, something that has been planned and discussed over the past two years, said City Clerk Sue Pulverenti. The council didnt vote on the resolution to amend the 2018 budget for a second codes officer, leaving it as is and scheduling a special meeting on Oct. 22 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss the new codes department, how it will be structured, and concerns councilors may have in combining the offices. Youre taking a lot of people from different departments, Pulverenti said. The council has been trying to develop a codes department, but youre trying to take someone who does the new constructions with the code department, someone at the housing department who works for the fire department and the community service officer from the police department. Its not an overnight process. You have to change the charter and its not an easy procedure. Quick Hits During the homily, Pope Francis was moved when he addressed them "a warm welcome". The two Synodal Fathers are Mgr Joseph Guo Jincai and Mgr John Baptist Yang Xiaoting. For one priest, "Today at the Synod there are only two bishops, but in the future, we hope to see many more. Vatican City (AsiaNews) The first-time presence of Chinese bishops at a Synod is a sign of "positive change" in the relationship between Beijing and the Catholic Church, two Chinese priests told AsiaNews this morning in St Peter's Square following the opening Mass of the Synod on Youth. Thanks to the interim agreement signed by the Holy See and the People's Republic of China, two bishops from mainland China were present in St Peters Square for the first time after decades. The two Synodal Fathers (pictured), who are members of the government-registered clergy, are Mgr Joseph Guo Jincai, bishop of Chengde (Hebei province) and Mgr John Baptist Yang Xiaoting, bishop of Yan'an (Shaanxi). In his homily, Pope Francis was briefly moved when he addressed them "a warm welcome", briefly stopping reading his written text, comforted by the applause of the faithful in the square. Among the latter were two Chinese priests studying in Rome, Father Marco and Father Giovanni. For Fr Marco, "This Synod represents a historic event for all of us. We are very happy but at the same time we know that we must proceed with caution, slowly. The life of the Church in China has been difficult for a long time. Certainly, the agreement between the Holy See and the government can bring new things but, at the moment, it is not clear, he added. In China, "Catholics are divided into two communities. Their union is an important goal, and we hope this can happen. Today at the Synod there are only two bishops, but in the future, we hope to see many more. (Photo: Reuters) Chennai rains to continue until noon today: Water logging in many parts Chennai Rains: Depression over north coastal region weakens, light rain very likely across TN Chennai: Three members of family die after inhaling poisonous gas from AC Chennai oi-Madhuri Adnal Chennai, Oct 3: Three members of a family including an 8-year-old child lost their lives after inhaling gas that leaked from a malfunctioning air conditioner. The incident took place on Monday, said reports. The incident came to light after Neighbours grew suspicious as the family that included a 35-year-old man, his wife and son didn't come out of their house and altered the police. The police had to broke into the house where they found the bodies. The deceased were identified as Saravanan, his wife Kalaiarasi and their 8-year-old Karthikeyan. Also Read | Two women die after consuming poisonous tea in Bihar The family lived in Thiruvalluvar Nagar at Koyambedu in the city. The primary investigation has shown that the couple had turned on the inverter on Monday evening because of a power cut in the area, said police. Though the power supply was restored around midnight, the couple and the child died, probably from inhaling some poisonous gas that leaked out of a malfunctioning air conditioner, the police said. For More Chennai News, Click Here For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 8:41 [IST] 7th Pay Commission: Here is why basic monthly pay of CG employees will not increase 7th Pay Commission: When will the new DA hike be effective from 7th Pay Commission: DA hike, big bonus, protests and more latest news and updates India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Oct 3: Even as Central Government employees await some good news on the 7th Pay Commission, there have been several positive developments across the country. Recently Haryana announced a hike in Dearness Allowance for its employees. The DA was hiked from 7 per cent to 9 per cent. This was done following in the footsteps of the Central Government. This hike was in line with the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission. 7th Pay Commission: This good news for CG employees by November end There is also some good news on the 7th Pay Commission for the employees of the Uttar Pradesh government. There is a big bonus on the cards for the UP government employees and this is expected to come by the end of October. There is also news that a DA hike for the 18 lakh government employees would be given. The UP government employees could expect a DA hike of up to 9 per cent from the existing 7 per cent. The same would come into effect from July 2018 onwards. Meanwhile there is not so good news regarding the 7th Pay Commission in Maharashtra. Around 20,000 teachers of the Maharashtra degree colleges. They have been demanding the filling up of the vacant posts. 7th Pay Commission latest news and updates: Terrible news as huge pay cut on anvil The Maharashtra Federation of University and College Teachers' Organisation (MFUCTO) held a meeting with School and Higher Education Minister Vinod Tawde. Tawde reportedly said, "The meeting was fruitful and we have agreed to share details of assurances with the members of the MFUCTO. We are hopeful that they will take the right decision." Meanwhile the wait continues for the CG employees regarding the 7th Pay Commission. The employees have been assured that their demands would be looked into. The government is working on a mechanism to ease the pain, but would be done in a phased manner. More roll out regarding the 7th Pay Commission are expected from November end onwards. AP EAPCET Round 1 seat allotment delayed again: New date to be announced soon Air Force Day 2018: Vintage aircraft Dakota poised for maiden appearance India oi-Chennabasaveshwar P New Delhi , Oct 3: Twenty-eight aircraft, including Dakota 1940 vintage aircraft, will be participating in the Air Force Day's flypast ceremony on October 8th. Dakota is flying for the first time in Air Force Day ceremony. Also, Tiger moth and Harvard vintage aircraft will take part in a scintillating air display which is the hallmark of the Air Force Day Parade cum Investiture Ceremony at Air Force Station Hindan (Ghaziabad). The air display will commence with flag bearing sky divers of famous AKASH GANGA Team dropping out of AN-32 aircraft in their colourful canopies, at 0800 hours. The flypast would include the vintage aircraft, modern transport aircraft and frontline fighter aircraft. The ceremony will conclude at 1052 hours with a scintillating aerobatic display. Also Read | Operation Smudra Maitri: IAF embarks on relief mission to Indonesia Eight standby aircraft will also be there in the air as replacements if any aircraft develops any snag. Fighter aircraft Sukhoi, Jaguar, Mirage and MiG 21s to be present. This year's major attraction is Dakota aircraft which will be participating in the Air Force Day 2018 fly past for the first time. Also Read | Himachal Pradesh: 50 trekkers rescued by IAF, 500 people still stranded in Lahaul-Spiti A Dakota DC-3 aircraft of 1940 vintage, was gifted by Rajya Sabha MP Rajeev Chandrasekhar to the Indian Air Force. Air Cmde MK Chandrasekhar (Rtd), father of Rajeev Chandrasekhar, handed over the aircraft to IAF on May 4, 2018, in Hindan airbase. Dakota DC-3 aircraft A Dakota DC-3 aircraft of 1940 vintage, gifted by Rajya Sabha member Rajeev Chandrasekhar to the Indian Air Force, was formally inducted into the IAF at Air Force Station Hindan in Ghaziabad (2018-05-04). PTI file photo Induction ceremony Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa greets Air Cmde MK Chandrasekhar (Retd) during an induction ceremony for Dakota DC-3 aircraft of 1940 vintage, gifted by Rajya Sabha member Rajeev Chandrasekhar to the Indian Air Force at Air Force Station Hindan in Ghaziabad (2018-05-04). PTI photo Dakota served in IAF A large fleet of Dakota DC-3 served in the IAF till 1988. It was one of the most versatile transport aircraft of its time. To honour the first Dakota which transported troops of the 1st Sikh Regiment to Srinagar on 27 Oct 47, during the Kashmir conflict. PTI Photo Ceremonial gifting Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa with Air Commodore (retd) M K Chandrasekhar during a function to mark ceremonial gifting of the Douglas DC3 Dakota to IAF, in New Delhi (2018-02-13). PTI Akash surface-to-air missile (SAM) One of the notable systems that India has to thwart incoming aerial targets like fighter jets, cruise missiles and air-to-surface missiles is Akash mid-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system built by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is medium range nuclear capable supersonic missile. The missile system can target aircraft up to 30 km away, at altitudes up to 18,000 mts. It is in operational service with the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. AAD interceptor being test fired Another system that India has been working on is Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) program. A Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) is a system that is designed to intercept and destroy an incoming ballistic missile on its trajectory much before it approaches the target. India's ballistic missile defence system provides a two-layered shield - 'exo' and 'endo'. What this effectively means is that the system provides protection both against ballistic missiles that are outside (exo) as well as inside (endo) the earth's atmosphere. Defence against incoming missiles: How well is India prepared? Prithvi Air Defence or PAD interceptor Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) is supposed to tackle incoming missiles at ranges of 80-120 km (exo-atmospheric interception). On the other hand, the advanced air-defence (AAD) mainly consists of Akash Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAM) that can intercept incoming missiles at ranges of 15-30 km (endo-atmospheric interception). S-400 Triumf To add to its arsenal, India is set to purchase S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems from Russia. S-400 Triumf is one of the world's most advanced air defence systems that can simultaneously track numerous incoming objects - all kinds of aircraft, missiles and UAVs - in a radius of a few hundred kilometres and launch appropriate missiles to neutralise them. The S-400 Triumph air defence system integrates a multifunction radar, autonomous detection and targeting systems, anti-aircraft missile systems, launchers, and command and control centre. SC directs Tripura govt to ensure no political party is prevented from local body polls campaign Ayyappa devotees to file a review petition in Apex Court India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, Oct 3: The Supreme Court laid down clear directions allowing entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala temple, a decision welcomed by political parties of all spectrum - from the Left to the Right. But in Kerala, following the verdict, Hundreds of Ayyappa devotees, including women, blocked state and national highways in various parts of Kerala Tuesday expressed their dismay at the Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all ages to offer worship at the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple. The activists, rallying under the banner of Sabarimala Protection Council, blocked traffic in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, resulting in mild tension. In Kochi, the protesters gathered on the National Highway at Vyttila. Also Read | Impractical: Kerala denies women separate queues at Sabarimala temple The Kerala govt on Monday declared that separate queues for women entering Sabarimala following the SC's lifting of the ban on women's entry into the temple would be 'impractical'. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 10:37 [IST] Explained: Can Mukul Roy be disqualified as MLA for jumping from BJP to TMC Plea in SC to decide disqualification of Trinamool's Mukul Roy as MLA BJP appoints election in-charges for poll-bound states India pti-PTI New Delhi, Oct 3: Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah on Wednesday appointed Union Ministers J P Nadda, Prakash Javadekar and Dharmendra Pradhan as the party's election in-charges for Telangana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh respectively, a party statement said. The assembly elections are likely to be held in these three states, besides Chhattisgarh, in the next couple of months. Madhya Pradesh elections 2018: These 25 seats are a serious headache for Congress Shah has also appointed Mukul Roy, who had quit the Trinamool Congress to join the BJP and seen as a capable organisational leader, as convener of the party's election management committee in West Bengal. In another appointment, the BJP made Arvind Menon, who has an RSS background and was once a powerful organisational leader in Madhya Pradesh, as the party's co-in-charge for West Bengal. Why BJP is feeling nervous in Rajasthan ahead of Assembly elections Party General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya is the in-charge for the state. The appointments in West Bengal underlines Shah's focus on the state, which he sees as a potential region for the party's growth in the next Lok Sabha election. PTI BJP wants to deny ticket to 70 MLAs including some ministers in Madhya Pradesh India oi-Vinod Kumar Shukla New Delhi, Oct 3: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Madhya Pradesh is likely to deny tickets to at least 70 sitting MLAs including some important ministers to battle the anti-incumbency. However, state chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan is not in agreement with this as he feels that the decision might harm party's prospects in the state. Sources said that national organising secretary of the party Ram Lal was in favour of denying tickets to such MLAs in the state whose report card is not good and they have very bleak chances of winning elections. There are total 166 BJP MLAs in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly so the party will be denying ticket to around 42 per cent legislators that is also the plan of the Central BJP for across the country replacing 30 to 40 per cent candidates with the news ones. Congress in dilemma over making commitment on law for landless Actually the chief minister of the state is wary of the fact that in the past 10-15 years, many leaders in Madhya Pradesh have grown so big that denying them ticket might not only harm the party on that seat but on some other seats as well. But the party leadership is concerned about the dwindling prospect of the BJP in the state. Sources said that there is a possibility of many ministers getting defeated so they should be replaced with some fresh faces. There are regions where the BJP has traditionally being strong but from there also the party is not getting positive feedback and party like Samanya Pichhara Alpsankhyak Kalyan Samaj, which launched Sapaks Samaj Party is giving sleepless nights to the BJP leadership. They are appealing upper caste to make distance from the BJP who were actually their traditional voters. Some of the statements made by the BJP leaders including the chief minister had made things worst for the party. BJP promises cow ministry in Madhya Pradesh to woo upper caste and to counter Congress Interestingly the Congress is hoping that not only the angry upper caste voters but others will also vote for the Congress instead of pressing the Nota button. Another thing that is harming the party in the state is its reaction to the people protesting against it while the Congress is just ignoring that it can do by being in the opposition. Demonstrations have taken place outside houses of most of the ministers even hoarding are put up outside minister's house with the slogan. "Our votes not for you." This has set the alarm bell ringing in the BJP so it is looking for all possible move to counter it. Replacement or change of constituency is one such move that the BJP is planning. Blockade by farmers over but not the electoral damage threat India oi-Vinod Kumar Shukla New Delhi, Oct 3: Farmers' march from Haridwar in Uttarakhand to Delhi having their 21-demands has been called off in the night of October2-3 and farmers have started going back to their respective places but this development could prove to be detrimental for the government at the Centre. Farmers from all across the country including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi and even from Kerala and Tamil Nadu participated in this protest march for their demands. Though after several rounds of talks between the protesting farmers and the government, they agree to end their protest and farmers were even allowed to go to Kisan Ghat in New Delhi the wee hours. But their anger is still palpable. But political loss and benefit have been more into consideration sending the BJP on the back foot in view of 2019 Lok Sabha elections approaching fast. Actually farmers in western Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab and Rajasthan are mostly from the Jat community who are not happy with the government for many other reasons besides agrarian issue so discontent was simmering in the region from very long. So the government wanted this not to snowball further so the government agreed to their every demand. Political analysts say that electoral success of party majorly depends upon the support of this dominant community which is financially strong also. So the government is very worried as its stake in Uttar Pradesh are very high. Also Read | Delhi: 'Kisan Kranti Padyatra' ends at Kisan Ghat; Ghaziabad schools to remain shut Political Analysts like Sidheshwar Prashad feels that this could be a warning bell for the government that is why it swung into action so swiftly and put over half a dozen minister into it. They mostly agreed to their demands but fulfilling them is a big challenge. Some of the farmers while ending the deadlock were heard saying that farmer leaders might be happy with the assurances of the government but farmers are still not happy. They want result for all this protest and it is not possible for them to join such protest every time. While for the government fulfilling all the demands of farmers' is impossible as it will put unbearable burden on the government exchequer. Moreover, the government is also buying time as after three-four months elections will be declared and the government will not be in position to take a policy decision. Some of the important demands out of 21 demands made by farmers included loan waiver of farmers and fair prices for crops, which they want without any delay. They also included complete loan waiver, revoking a ban on 10-year-old tractors in the National Capital Region (NCR), reduction in electricity tariff, implementation of the recommendations of the MS Swaminathan Commission on remunerative prices and payment of sugarcane arrears among others. Also Read | 'Drunk with power': Opposition slams govt over police action against farmers Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKP) is leading the protest that was started from Haridwar a week ago, which has support base among many other communities including Muslims and Sikhs in Punjab. Union minister of state for agriculture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat was in deliberations with them. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 9:49 [IST] Four cows were rescued A police official said that they arrived at the spot based on specific information of cattle smuggling activities, said a TOI report. Upon seeing the police, the smugglers are said to have fired in response to which the cops retaliated. Three managed to flee but one smuggler fell down and was caught. He arrested individual has been identified as one Akbar Khan. (Image courtesy - ANI/Twitter) One smuggler has been arrested In September, four people were arrested in Ghaziabad's Awas Vikas colony for allegedly stealing cows and slaughtering them. On the basis of a tip-off, Tronica city police arrested the smugglers from a forest near the colony and recovered from their possession lethal weapons used for slaughtering. (Image courtesy - ANI/Twitter) Cow vigilantism has emerged as a contentious issue in recent times The incident comes amid raging debate over cow vigilantism. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on September 19 said that there were "double standards" over violence in the name of cow with nobody making any "noise" about cattle smugglers attacking the gaurakshaks. (Image courtesy - ANI/Twitter) To deal with cow smugglers, this BJP MLA proposes a new methodology RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat "The cattle smugglers attack. There is noise over lynching but when cow smugglers attack and indulge in violence, there is no noise over it. We should abandon these double standards," Bhagwat had said. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit China on Oct. 8, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson announced Wednesday. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo [File photo: VCG] Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said in a statement that China and the United States would exchange views on bilateral ties and regional and international issues of common concern. The Vatican Under-Secretary for Relations with States won first prize at the annual lottery organized during the National Day of the Republic of China. The prelate is the signer of the agreements between the Vatican and Communist China on episcopal appointments. Ambassador of Taiwan: "Happy with the understanding, this is a purely religious matter". Rome (AsiaNews) - The Under-Secretary for Relations with States of the Holy See, Msgr. Antoine Camilleri has won a free trip to Taiwan (see photo). The winner was announced yesterday, during the reception offered by the Embassy of the Republic of China to the Vatican on the occasion of the national holiday of the island. It is not clear whether the prelate will go or not: he is the signer of the agreements between Communist China and the Holy See on episcopal appointments in the Asian country. During the event, which took place at the Urbanianum University, it is customary to organize a small lottery involving all guests. Prizes are offered by business partners and embassy sponsors. After thanking the guests for their presence, Ambassador Matthew SM Lee gave a speech praising the recent agreements on episcopal appointments: "This is a significant agreement because, for the first time, the Chinese Communist Party recognizes the Pope as leader of the Catholic communities in China, thus breaking its old-fashioned dogmas of noninterference in Communist Chinas domestic affairs from foreign countries, and no affiliate relationship between Chinas religions and foreign religions. However, the diplomat stressed that these are "religious, not diplomatic" relationships. Despite this positive aspect, Lee recalled how Beijing is trying in every way to remove Taiwan from the international community but, citing Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu who recently said, Taiwan is the David to Chinas Goliath, and we will prevail. With the assistance of global partners standing up to the rising autocratic authoritarian power, Taiwan will persist, persevere and prevail." Finally, the diplomat wanted to quote Pope Francis and asked those present to " accompany our brothers and sisters in Mainland China with fervent prayer and fraternal friendship along their difficult path of reconciliation and unity, hoping that their sufferings will be alleviated and divisions will be healed as time goes by. As Confucius said in his infinite wisdom: The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.". BSP to fight solo in UP, Uttarakhand, no tie-up with Owaisi's AIMIM, says Mayawati 'Should not be misled': Mayawati reaches out to Brahmins before UP polls Creases can be ironed out before 2019: Congress on Mayawatis snub India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Oct 3: Minutes after Mayawati announced that she will not ally with the Congress for elections in assembly elections, party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the differences between both the parties can be ironed out. Reacting to Mayawati's remarks, Surjewala said "At times, out of emotions, sweet and bitter things are said. But at last, if Mayawati ji holds absolute trust in Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, then other creases can be ironed out." Alliance with Congress 'not at any cost,' says Mayawati Ruling out an alliance with the Congress in the upcoming assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, BSP supremo Mayawati on Wednesday said the party will contest on its own and alleged that some Congress leaders are against a tie-up despite Sonia and Rahul Gandhi's 'honest' intentions. "They (Congress) are getting arrogant and are under misconception that they can defeat BJP on their own but the ground reality is that people haven't forgiven Congress party for their mistakes and corruption...They don't seem to be ready to rectify themselves," she told news agency ANI. Mayawati to address rally organised by Ajit Jogi's Janata Congress in Chhattisgarh on Oct 13: report "In Rajasthan, the Congress was offering us only nine seats out of 200 assembly seats, in Madhya Pradesh 15-20 (out of 230 seats in the state), in Chhattisgarh only 5-6 seats out of 90. We have noticed that whenever we have contested an election in alliance, all our votes get transferred to Congress," she said. Congress, like the BJP, is conspiring to finish off the BSP, she alleged. "...Even though the BSP has always supported Congress to keep the communal forces away, but the fact is that the Congress has always backstabbed us," she added. Reservation in promotion: SC verdict is welcome to a certain extent, says Mayawati "Digvijaya Singh who is also a BJP agent is giving statements that Mayawati ji has a lot of pressure from Centre so she doesn't want this alliance. This is baseless," she said. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 18:01 [IST] K'taka HC grants interim relief to Twitter India MD, asks cops not to take coercive steps against him Delhi: 'Kisan Kranti Padyatra' ends at Kisan Ghat; Ghaziabad schools to remain shut India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, Oct 3: The 'Kisan Kranti Padyatra', which started on September 23, ended at the Kisan Ghat in the national capital in the early hours of Wednesday. The protest march was started by the Bharatiya Kisan Union. It came to an end after the protesting farmers reached Kisan Ghat, the memorial of Chaudhary Charan Singh, a renowned farmer leader on late Tuesday night. "The 'Kisan Kranti Padyatra' that started on September 23 had to end at Kisan Ghat. Since Delhi Police did not allow us to enter, we protested. Our aim was to finish the Yatra, which we have done now. Now we will go back to our villages," said Bharatiya Kisan Union president Naresh Tikait. Also Read | Kisan Kranti Padyatra: Modi Govt no different from British, slams Surjewala The farmers were agitating to demand loan waiver, reduction in electricity tariff and pension for farmers aged above 60. The yatra began from Haridwar with the score of farmers from Gonda, Basti and Gorakhpur participating in the protest march. At least 70,000 farmers from Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana staged the Kisan Kranti Padyatra, which concluded at the Rajghat. Also Read | 'Drunk with power': Opposition slams govt over police action against farmers All schools and colleges in Ghaziabad is scheduled to remain closed on Wednesday as a preventive measure in view of the protest. Delhi receives 19% excess rainfall this year India oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, Oct 3: What Delhiites complain most about the national capital's weather is scorching heat during May-June and lack of rains. But this year it poured heavily in Delhi, so much so that the capital received twice the amount of rainfall in September than usual. The monsoon has now withdrawn from Delhi and the last time monsoon withdrew so early from the national capital was in 2015, when it retreated on September 30. Heavy rains lash Delhi-NCR, Weather pleasant but roads clogged Even the pattern of rainfall was a tad different this year. The capital usually receives heaviest rains in August, but this year it was September during which it rained the most. Monsoon withdrew from Delhi on Monday and the national capital received 19% excess rainfall this year, as per MeT department. "Monsoon withdrew from Delhi on October 1. The last rain was received on September 24. We are now in the transition phase before winter sets in," said BP Yadav, deputy director general of the IMD, as per HT report. Monsoon had hit Delhi one day ahead of its scheduled date of arrival this year. While the scheduled date of arrival for monsoon in Delhi is June 29, this year it arrived on June 28. Why this year's rain fury is the worst in recent times Usually Delhi receives the heaviest rains in August, followed by July. But this time, August was rather dry in the city. Instead, Delhi received double the amount of rainfall in September than it usually receives. The heaviest rain spell that Delhi has received on a single September-day this decade was on September 10, 2009. The rainfall recorded then was 93.8 mm. The heaviest spell Delhi has ever recorded in September was on September 16, 1904 when it rained 176.5mm in the month. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 11:06 [IST] Gauhati University result 2018 BA, BCom, BSc declared, check on gauhati.ac.in India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Oct 3: The Gauhati University result 2018 BA, BCom, BSc has been declared. The results are available on the official website. As many as 30715 students appeared for the BA (General) exam of which only 9561 or 31.13 per cent have passed. The University was established in 1948, by an act of the State Legislature, namely, the Gauhati University Act 1947 (Assam Act, XVI of 1947), the Gauhati University is funded by the University Grants Commission and the Government of Assam. The University is in its 58th year of existence and is the oldest, the largest, and the most premiere seat of higher education in the entire North Eastern Region of India. The results have been declared on gauhati.ac.in. How to check Gauhati University results 2018: Go to gauhati.ac.in Click on results tab Enter required details Submit View results Take a printout For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 7:28 [IST] Has Divya Spandana relinquished her role as Congress' social media head? India oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, Oct 3: Speculations are rife that Divya Spandana, who took Congress' approach to social media to a new level altogether, may have relinquished her role as the party's social media head. An NDTV report says that Divya Spandana, popularly known as Ramya, may have irked the Congress' top brass by going overboard in her twitter tirade against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The actor-turned-politician, who is also a former MP from Mandya in Karnataka, had posted a tweet which had a photoshopped image of PM Modi painting the word 'chor' (thief) on the forehead of his wax statue. The NDTV report while quoting sources says that there are some in the Congress who felt that a line was crossed. FIR against Divya Spandana for posting 'offensive photo' of Modi on Twitter It is also being reported that Ramya did not attend office for three-days. She, however, did inform Randeep Surjewala that she would be back soon. The short introduction in Divya Spandana's Twitter handle now says "Actor, Former Member of Parliament, currently handling Social Media & Digital Communications for the Congress party". But, it is being said that her social media designation went missing for sometime, but was back soon. What these suggest is that all is not well between her and the party. It seems that the aggressive manner in which she took the attack to the Prime Minister is not something that has been welcomed by all in the Congress. The NDTV report, while quoting sources in the Congress, says that several party leaders have indeed confirmed that her job profile has been downsized. There has been no official reaction from anyone in the Congress so far. Congress uses 'Thugs of Hindostan' meme to attack PM Modi One must recall that an FIR was registered against Ramya by police in Uttar Pradesh for the tweet against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After an FIR was lodged by complainant Syed Rizwan Ahmed, Lucknow police booked Divya Spandana for sedition under Section 124-A of the IPC and Section 67 of the Information Technology (Amendment) Act that accuses the Congress leader of defaming Prime Minister Modi, who is a democratically elected leader, by calling him a 'thief'. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 17:55 [IST] How Pakistan outsourced a plot to kill the Dalai Lama in India India oi-Vicky Nanjappa Bengaluru/New Delhi, Oct 3: It all began in the year 2010, when a bunch of operatives of the Indian Mujahideen walked into Bodhgaya in Bihar and conducted a reconnaissance, with an intent to strike at the holy site. The plan was set into motion in 2013, when operatives of the Students Islamic Movement of India, the feeder outfit of the IM struck at Bodhgaya. Nine explosions took place inside the Maha Bodhi temple and loud message was sent out while trying to espouse the cause of the Rohingya Muslims. Dalai Lama: I knew of sex abuse by Buddhist teachers since 1990s The 2013 blast was only a grim reminder of things to come. The writing was on the wall and in this context the Research and Analysis Wing had even put out a note speaking about a new Lashkar-e-Tayiba backed outfit coming up in a bid to take up the Rohingya cause. A note put out by the R&AW to the Indian Government stated that a front called the Difa-e-Musalman (DeM) was set up by the Lashkar-e-Tayiba to fight in Myanmar and take up the issue. Over the years the the DeM looked for partners to carry out attacks and soon it found support in the Bangladesh based Hizbut Tahrir (HT). It was the HT which then outsourced the operation to target the Buddhists and also to plot the assassination of the Dalai Lama to groups such as the SIMI, IM and now the Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh, which has its strongest presence in West Bengal. The Americans too got wind of this plot and had in 2013 informed the Indian agencies about the same. India was told about that Arakan in Myanmar had become the training ground for terrorists who would launch attacks. Further India was also told that these terrorists were planning on bringing in weapons from Thailand to strike. Fast forward 2018: Investigations over the years between 2013 and 2018 showed that the terrorists in India was backed heavily by ISI sponsored groups. India based terror groups were getting the support of the DeM, HuJI, Lashkar, Jaish-e-Mohammad among others. It was also found that support was coming in from other groups that were based in Thailand, Singapore and Bangladesh. Dalai Lama condoles Vajpayee's demise, hails his eloquent support to Tibetan people With the Rohingya issue being raked up once again and the Indian government making it clear that they would have to return, another plot to carry out something big was hatched. This time around the target was the Dalai Lama himself. While the plot was busted in the nick of time, the unearthing of the conspiracy revealed some major details. On January 19 2018, the police recovered explosives from the Bodhgaya temple complex. The plot was hatched by Jahidul Islam, a resident of Bangladesh along with other residents of West Bengal that included Mustafizur Rahman, Adil Sheikh, Dilwar Hossain, Abdul Karim and Arif Hussain. The investigation trail was not restricted to Bodhgaya alone. It led the NIA to multiple states such as Karnataka, West Bengal and Kerala as well. Each of these states were used as a safe hideout by the terrorists. A portion of the NIA chargesheet in this case read, " in furtherance of the conspiracy, the accused persons contacted and assembled together at various places, took hideouts at Jahanabad and Masaurhi in Bihar, carried out reconnaissance of the targets at Bodhgaya and procured explosives and other materials for manu facture of the IED. Accused Jahidul Islam with the help of other co-accused made 3 IEDs and 2 hand grenades. The IEDs were planted by Adil Sheikh, Dilwar Hossain and Arif Hussain in the premises of Bodhgaya on 19th Jan, 2018 in order to cause loss to public life and property during the auspicious presence of his holiness the Dalai Lama and also during the visit of his Excellency the Governor of Bihar at Bodhgaya, thus committing a terrorist act." A continuation: NIA officials tell OneIndia that this act in 2018 was just a continuation of what transpired in 2010 and 2013. The issue and the plot were same and only the terrorist organisation had changed. Dalai Lama rues sectarian clashes in Middle East Intelligence Bureau reports in the possession of OneIndia show that these terror groups were not planning on restricting the attacks to Bodhgaya alone. They were planning on striking at various other places and cite the same issue. Bodhgaya was the target as it was symbolic. They wanted to strike when the Dalai Lama was there so that it would gather a lot of attention. While attacks were one part of the plot, recruiting Rohingya Muslims into terror groups is another part of the plan. The alert levels in places where the Rohingyas are in large numbers are at an all time high. IB officials also warn that there could be a lot of activity ahead of the elections. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs said on the issue of Rohingyas that they are not refugees. They are intruders and will be sent out of India, he also said. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 16:05 [IST] Hyderabad: Cop lulls baby to sleep as mother takes examination India oi-Shubham Ghosh Hyderabad, Oct 3: Women have turned more determined nowadays to pursue their dreams. They prefer not to give up even after turning mother. In the face of all challenges, they carry on somehow to meet their long-cherished goals in life. Their job becomes easier when the society extends them a helping hand, just like the case here in Hyderabad. A young woman had to appear for the SCTPC (Stipendiary Cadet Trainee Police Constables) examination at a college in Mahbubnagar, Hyderabad, on Sunday, Sunday 30, but needed somebody to take care of her four-month-old baby. It was then when head constable Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, who does his duty at Moosapet police station in the city, came forward and comforted the crying baby while its mother sat for the examination. Hyderabad: Married man, 'friend' commit suicide after wife objects them for WhatsApp chat The image of the policeman comforting the baby was tweeted by IPS officer Rema Rajeshwari who thought it was a perfect example to show that cops too have a "human face", something which is often contradictory to popular perception. Head Constable Officer Mujeeb-ur-Rehman (of Moosapet PS) who was on duty for conducting SCTPC exam in Boys Junior College, Mahbubnagar trying to console a crying baby, whose mother was writing exam inside the hall. #HumanFaceOfCops#Empathy pic.twitter.com/QudRZbAADu Rema Rajeshwari IPS (@rama_rajeswari) September 30, 2018 "I usually see people dropping their spouses or kin at the venue and returning. But this time, the woman candidate appeared at the centre with a four-month-old baby boy, along with her sister-in-law. Since we do not allow any accomplice to stay within the premises of the exam hall, we made them wait outside the school," Rehman was quoted as saying by The News Minute. "It was a three-hour long exam. The baby was quiet and played on the girl's lap for about an hour. But as time passed, the baby started squirming. The woman's sister-in-law, who would be barely 15 or 16 years old, kept cradling the baby, but to no avail. It was hungry, crying inconsolably and writhing in her lap. The girl clearly had no idea how to manage the toddler." Telangana man who raped minor and impregnated her, let off by elders with Rs 2.5 lakh fine Rehman, who reportedly has two kids - a son who studies medicine in China and a school-going daughter, took up the infant himself after seeing no women constables around. He took care of the baby for an hour and half, before lulling it to sleep. The cop's gesture was welcomed across the social media. Head Constable Officer Mujeeb-ur-Rehman (of Moosapet PS) who was on duty for conducting SCTPC exam in Boys Junior College, Mahbubnagar trying to console a crying baby, whose mother was writing exam inside the hall. #HumanFaceOfCops#Empathy pic.twitter.com/QudRZbAADu Rema Rajeshwari IPS (@rama_rajeswari) September 30, 2018 this is indeed an inspirational gesture https://t.co/KpMSnzZpqC Kunal Sarangi (@Kunalsarangi) September 30, 2018 Head Constable Officer Mujeeb-ur-Rehman (of Moosapet PS) who was on duty for conducting SCTPC exam in Boys Junior College, Mahbubnagar trying to console a crying baby, whose mother was writing exam inside the hall. #HumanFaceOfCops#Empathy pic.twitter.com/QudRZbAADu Rema Rajeshwari IPS (@rama_rajeswari) September 30, 2018 Head Constable Officer Mujeeb-ur-Rehman (of Moosapet PS) who was on duty for conducting SCTPC exam in Boys Junior College, Mahbubnagar trying to console a crying baby, whose mother was writing exam inside the hall. #HumanFaceOfCops#Empathy pic.twitter.com/QudRZbAADu Rema Rajeshwari IPS (@rama_rajeswari) September 30, 2018 Head Constable Officer Mujeeb-ur-Rehman (of Moosapet PS) who was on duty for conducting SCTPC exam in Boys Junior College, Mahbubnagar trying to console a crying baby, whose mother was writing exam inside the hall. #HumanFaceOfCops#Empathy pic.twitter.com/QudRZbAADu Rema Rajeshwari IPS (@rama_rajeswari) September 30, 2018 ICAI CA CPT December 2018 registration tomorrow, check pattern, fee, eligibility India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Oct 3: The ICAI CA CPT December 2018 registration process will commence tomorrow. You can apply on the official website. The exam is scheduled to be held on December 16, 2018. The registration process would be open until October 25 2018. Candidates should have either passed or appeared in the senior secondary examination (10+2 examination) or an examination recognised by the central government as equivalent thereto and has complied with such requirements as may be specified by the Council from time to time. They should be registered for/switched over to common proficiency course with board of studies of ICAI on or before June 30, 2017 and should have revalidated their registration to the course (as applicable) The exam will be conducted in paper-pencil mode (PP mode) and the duration of the same will be four hours. Objective type questions will be asked and negative marking will be done for wrong answers. Candidates can resister from October 3 to October 25 2018 on icaiexam.icai.org. Exam fee for ICAI CA CPT December 2018: The exam fee is required to be submitted on-line by using either visa or master credit/debit card/rupay card/net banking. Fee for centres in India: Rs 1,000 Fee for centres in Kathmandu (Nepal): Rs 1,700 Fee for centres in Abu Dhabi, Doha, Dubai and Muscat: $ 300 ICAI CA CPT December 2018 important dates: Online registration begins: October 4, 2018 Last date to apply online: October 25, 2018 Exam date: December 16, 2018. ICAI CA CPT December 2018 exam schedule: Morning session: 10:30 am to 12:30 pm Section A - Fundamentals of Accounting Section B - Mercantile Laws Afternoon session: 2 pm to 4 pm Section C - General Economics Section D - Quantitative Aptitude For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 7:55 [IST] Pakistan says India should avail its offer for consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav ICJ to start final hearings on Kulbhushan Jadhavs case from Feb 18 India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Oct 3: The International Court of Justice will start the final round of hearings to decide India's appeal against Kulbhushan Jadhav's execution from 18 February in The Hague, the seat of the Court, an announcement by the world court body said. India moved the ICJ in May the same year against the verdict. A 10-member bench of the ICJ on May 18, 2017 had restrained Pakistan from executing Jadhav till adjudication of the case. "The hearings will be streamed live and on demand (VOD) in English and French on the Court's website as well as on UN Web TV, the United Nations online television channel," said the press release issued by the ICJ. Here is the evidence Pakistan claims it has against Kulbhushan Jadhav The International Court of Justice (ICJ) on January 23 gave a timeline to both Pakistan and India for filing another round of memorials in the case. Both India and Pakistan have already submitted their detailed pleas and responses in the world court. In its written pleadings, India had accused Pakistan of violating the Vienna Convention by not giving consular access to Jadhav arguing that the convention did not say that such access would not be available to an individual arrested on espionage charges. Pakistan Foreign Minister says they have 'solid evidence' against Kulbhushan Jadhav In response, Pakistan through its counter-memorial on December 13 told the ICJ that the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations 1963 applied only to legitimate visitors and did not cover clandestine operations. Pakistan had said that "since India did not deny that Jadhav was travelling on a passport with an assumed Muslim name, they have no case to plead." Pakistan said that India did not explain how "a serving naval commander" was travelling under an assumed name. It also stated that "since Jadhav was on active duty, it is obvious that he was a spy sent on a special mission". Pakistan says its security forces arrested Jadhav from Balochistan province in March 2016 after he reportedly entered the country from Iran. In its submission to the ICJ, Pakistan had stated that Jadhav is not an ordinary person as he had entered the country with the intent of spying and carrying out sabotage activities. India has been maintaining that the trial of Jadhav by a military court in Pakistan was "farcical". Pakistan claims that its security forces arrested Jadhav from restive Balochistan province on March 3, 2016 after he reportedly entered from Iran. However, India maintains that Jadhav was kidnapped from Iran where he had business interests after retiring from the Navy. Jadhav's sentencing had evoked a sharp reaction in India. India had approached the ICJ for "egregious" violation of the provisions of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963, by Pakistan in Jadhav's case. OneIndia News (with PTI inputs) India-Russia S-400 trade: Why Vladimir Putins visit this week is too important India oi-Shubham Ghosh New Delhi, Oct 3: The world will keep a close watch on India this week as Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit New Delhi on Thursday, October 4, for a two-day visit for the annual India-Russia summit. According to a top source in the Kremlin, the two sides will sign the multi-billion-dollar worth S-400 surface-to-air missile system on the occasion. The S-400 is Russia's most advanced air defence system and it has been in the limelight since the US was warned against the deal. The Donald Trump administration has said that the deal will be considered a "significant transaction" and could see imposition of tough America sanctions. In September, President Trump signed an executive order that would see imposition of crippling sanctions on countries and foreign entities and individuals who violate the CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act). Russian foreign minister Lavrov, US State Secy Pompeo speak on bilateral, international issues The US also slapped sanctions on the Chinese military last month to penalise it for buying fighter jets and missile systems from Russia, violating the law that punishes Moscow for its alleged meddling in the 2016 presidential election. In case of the India-Russia deal, can New Delhi afford to annoy the US and go ahead with its purchase from Russia? In one way, this constitutes a challenge to the integrity of the BRICS platform, something which has encouraged the world to dream of an alternative world order. Though China hasn't objected to the India-Russia bonhomie which is trying to regain the ground of yesteryears, the US is allegedly trying to dilute the bloc's integrity through its pressure tactics to isolate India from the two other big powers of the BRICS - Russia and China. Both India and US have stakes This makes President Putin's upcoming visit to India all the more significant. Some media reports have predicted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will settle the purchase but there is no official confirmation on the same. Either way, New Delhi will have a balancing act to do. If India goes with the deal despite the US's warnings, the message will be that it is trying to forge multiple alignments in its external affairs to take benefit of the world power rivalry. But if it doesn't, then its international image will take a beating and Modi's leadership will be perceived as weak. Putin gave Trump proposal over Ukraine conflict resolution in Helsinki: Report The US also has its stake in this episode. Washington and New Delhi are far away from the original Cold War days and both sides have considerable self-interests to serve in today's geopolitical and geoeconomic realities. If it imposes a sanction on India, a country which has come closer to it because of reasons related to security and economic, then its anti-China and anti-Pakistan plans will be in jeopardy. If it doesn't, then Trump will be seen as a leader who only talks big. There could still be a way whereby India buys the S-400 system from Russia and the US doesn't impose a sanction. The compromise formula will be India intending to use them as defence against China and Pakistan and also promising the US a drastic reduction of consumption of resources from Iran in exchange of a waiver. According to the transalpine government the Iranian intelligence ministry is behind the foiled attack on Villepinte against an anti-Tehran opposition group. Assets of two senior officials of the Islamic Republic frozen. Tehran rejects claims and hopes for new talks to dispel the "misunderstandings". Teheran (AsiaNews / Agencies) - The French authorities accuse the Intelligence Ministry of Tehran of having planned a (failed) bomb attack last June, targeting an Iranian opposition group in Paris. In a note the transalpine government claims to have arranged the freezing of assets of two senior officials of the Islamic Republic. Iranian leaders have claimed that the attack has been "framed" and renews the invitation to the Elysee for further clarifying talks. On June 30th, some supporters of the Iranian opposition met in Villepinte, a town not far from the capital Paris, in the context of a meeting promoted by the National Council for Resistance in Iran (Ncri). Among the personalities present were US politicians Newt Gingrich, former president of Parliament, and Rudy Giuliani, personal attorney of US President Donald Trump and former mayor of New York. The NCRI is considered the political arm of the dissident movement Mujahideen-e-Khalq (Mek): for Teheran it is a terrorist organization that aims to overthrow the regime of the ayatollahs. In the days following the alleged (unfinished) attack, the Belgian police arrested two citizens (husband and wife) of Iranian origin, in possession of over a pound of explosives. Amir A and Nasimeh N [the police did not want to reveal the whole identity] are implicated in the attempt to attack the French anti-Tehran dissident movement. A third man, called Merhad A, was arrested in Paris and also accused of complicity. With an official note released yesterday, the French government openly accuses the Iranian intelligence ministry of having planned the Villepinte attack. The joint document signed by the Ministry of the Interior, Foreign Affairs and Economy speaks of "a very serious gesture on our territory" that could not remain "unanswered". The Iranian government strongly denies all involvement. According to Teheran groups that "intend to damage long-term relations with France and, more generally, with Europe" are behind the attempted attack . Bahram Ghasemi, spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, hopes for new talks with the Elysee to dispel "any misunderstanding". Finally, yesterday, in an event that could be linked to the attack foiled early this summer, the French police raided the headquarters of a Shiite Muslim association, Center Zahra France, in the town of Dunkirk. Investigators suspect that the center would have woven close ties with Iran to promote religious and political activities of an "extremist" nature. The agents have made numerous arrests, seized different probative material and frozen the assets of some belonging to the group. In recent years, its members had intertwined ties with anti-Zionist groups of the extreme right. India to gift Russia with MiG-21 jets during Putins visit; a wise symbolic gesture India oi-Shubham Ghosh New Delhi, Oct 3: Even as the world is waiting to see how the Narendra Modi government balances between India's old and new allies - Russia and the US - respectively over buying the S-400 missile system from Moscow, the two sides decided to do something symbolic to reiterate the values of the old friendship. According to The Hindu, India will hand over three vintage MiG-21 supersonic fighter jets - something the former Soviet Union had started selling it during the days of Cold War and Non-Alignment. Though India is on way to gradually phase out these old machines, the nostalgia associated with them is still intact and it will used to recall the deep-rooted friendship between New Delhi and Moscow when Russian President Vladimir Putin visits India for hus annual summit with Modi. India-Russia S-400 trade: Why Vladimir Putin's visit this week is too important "Three MiG-21s are scheduled to be handed over to Russians based on a request from their Defence Minister to our Defence Minister. They comprise one Type 75 aircraft and two Type 77 aircraft," the Hindu report cited an official source as saying. All three planes are flightworthy and their crating and transportation costs will be borne by Russia. The MiG-21 was developed in the decade of the 1950s and is the most produced supersonic aircraft, with around 12,000 units made by the former Soviet Union and Czechoslovakia besides India. The jets were being supplied to India in 1963 and domestic license production started in 1966. However, their first use happened during the 1971 Bangladesh war and they proved to be smarter than the rivals' machines. India still has 120 MiG-21s in service though their days are numbered. Akash, PAD, AAD and now S-400 triumf air defence missile system However, the preference by both the countries to opt this time for gifting the fighter planes shows that they are ready to show their solidarity against external challenges. More than their bilateral relations, India and Russia certainly have bigger stakes in terms of unilateralism - as members of both BRICS and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and the United States, being an external force looking to maintain its dominance internationally, will look to weaken these platforms that have grown in the recent past as alternative platforms of security and economic cooperation. Gifting the MiG-21 jets might not be more than just a symbolic gesture but in geopolitics, even such gestures can help in scoring some brownie points. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 15:36 [IST] Is a war on the cards or will India inflict Pakistan with a thousand cuts India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Oct 3: India has taken an aggressive approach in the wake of the unending escalation of violence by Pakistan. Sushma Swaraj's tough talk at the United Nations was followed by a stern message by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The PM while stating that India favour peace, however added that it would not be at the cost of self-respect. The jawans will retaliate, he also added. This was followed by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh saying that something big had happened at the border. BSF sources confirmed to OneIndia that they had inflicted heavy damage on Pakistan's assets following heavy artillery shelling. The question on everyone's mind is whether India would go in for a full-fledged war or would there be measured strikes to subdue the enemy. Army chief, General Bipin Rawat had said recently that there was need for more surgical strikes on Pakistan. Indo-Pak army comparison: Here are the numbers This brings us to the policy that India has on Pakistan. Is a full fledged war feasible and will the Indian economy be able to sustain it at this juncture? The thousand cuts: Pakistan's policy towards India is that of a thousand cuts. It would not be wrong to say that Pakistan has any intention of changing this policy. India has opted for various options when it came to dealing with Pakistan. Among these have been speaking on the world stage on Pakistan sponsored terror, suspending talks and also increasing deployment along the border. While increasing deployment along the border does help, the fact is that it does cost a lot of money too. Take for instance Operation Parakram. The mobilisation following the attack on Parliament cost the country Rs 1,000 crore. The cost of such an operation today would be much more than Rs 1,000 crore today. In the aftermath of the Pathankot attack, India had said that it would cause Pakistan pain. There was however no immediate retaliation and India decided that it would continue talking with Pakistan. Talks did take place at the NSA level, but the sincerity of Pakistan was always doubted. Pakistan tried to confuse and mislead and one such instance was when Pakistan's NSA informed India that 10 terrorists had crossed over into Gujarat. Those 10 terrorists have not been found till date. Surgical strikes: The need for more as 300 terrorists have resurfaced across the border This was meant to look like a good will gesture by Pakistan, but it turned out to be a blatant lie. The fact remains that Pakistan has not dismantled the terror infrastructure of groups such as the Lashkar-e-Tayiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad responsible for the Mumbai 26/11 attacks, Parliament and Pathankot strikes. India has always had a measured response when it came to Pakistan. The big action that one got to see recently were the surgical strikes in the aftermath of the Uri attack. It did damage a considerable amount of terror infrastructure, but the need for more has arisen as 25 terror launchpads hosting 300 terrorists across the border have come up. The Pakistan army: The big problem lies with the Pakistan army and its unwillingness to resolve the Kashmir issue. Successive governments in Pakistan have offered to resolve this issue, but the Pakistan army has always played spoilsport. When Atal Bihari Vajpayee offered his hand of friendship, he got the Kargil war in return. Similarly when Modi made the surprise visit to Pakistan and met with Nawaz Sharif, what followed seven days later was the Pathankot attack. Security analysts say that with the current dispensation under Imran Khan the last thing to expect is a resolution. From day one it was clear that he was a puppet of the Pakistan army and even within Pakistan, there are allegations that the army had rigged the elections for him. Pakistan takes advantage of its strategic location to win powerful nations by its side It was also probably for the first time in Pakistan the choice to appoint an ISI chief was not given to the PM. Normally the army chief sends out three names and the PM is supposed to pick one. This time Imran Khan had no choice as the army chief sent out just one name. What option does India have? India has exercised various options in the past. One of the most explored options was suspension of talks. In the existing situation, this does not appear to be an option as there is heavy escalation of tensions along the border. The other would be to maintain an offensive-defence along the Line of Control. This would limit infiltration to a large extent. However India could only hope that Pakistan would realise that deploying terrorists along the border is a futile exercise. Pak violates ceasefire along Line of Control The other option would be a series of surgical strikes, which would help push the enemy backwards. Sustained heavy artillery firing is another option. Basically the idea would be to keep the heat on at all times, so as to not give the enemy time to re-group. The last option is a full-fledged war. There are many concerns around a full-fledged war. First it would take a toll on the economy. Second with both nations be nuclear states, it is not always the safest option. The mood in Delhi is clear and that there would be severe retaliation. None are thinking about a war, but in the days to come one would get to witness a series of sustained strikes in a bid to push the enemy backwards and keep the heat on. Delimitation will happen, J&K statehood to be restored: Amit Shah in Srinagar India requests Pakistan government to allow Srinagar-Sharjah flight to use its airspace J&K local body polls: Ex-militant is now BJP candidate from Srinagar India oi-Chennabasaveshwar P Srinagar, Oct 3: Amid abuse and challenges, an ex-militant is contesting in Jammu and Kashmir local body polls on BJP ticker from Srinagar. Mohammad Farooq Khan, who was Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) and Harkat-ul-Mujahideen cadre, was challenged to prove his origin in India. J&K: Cop who decamped with 7 AK-47 rifles joins Hizbul Mohammad Farooq Khan, said, " I didn't come from Nepal. I came a long ago. I've completed my jail term of 10.5 years. I'm going to file FIR against those who've said that I came from Nepal, if they don't apologise." "After coming out of prison, I formed J&K Human Welfare Organisation for rehabilitation of ex-militants. No one supported me, not even those for whom I picked gun. I didn't know they were only counting notes," Farooq Khan said. He further said that people were abusing him earlier and abusing today even though he was working for peace now. How burqa has become a weapon of choice for terrorists " I will win and spend my earnings on rehabilitation of ex-militants and their children's education...I didn't surrender on rehabilitation policy, he added. Blessings of 130 cr people with you: PM Modi celebrates Diwali with soldiers in J&Ks Nowshera With 2 more arrests NIA steps up heat on terrorists targeting civilians in J&K J&K: Unidentified gunmen abduct civilian, manhunt launched India oi-Vikas SV Srinagar, Oct 3: Unidentified gunmen abducted a civilian in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Wednesday. The police have launched a manhunt to traced the abducted man, identified as Tawseef Ahemd Ganie. Ganie was reportedly abducted from his shop in Baramulla's Younisu Sopore area. He hails Tujjer village of Sopore. Desperate Hizbul tells Kashmir cops to resign in 4 days or face death On September 23, the terrorists abducted a 45-year-old civilian from a house in Jammu and Kashmir's Sopore area. Mushtaq Ahmad Mir was abducted from Harwan area of Sopore town. Mir's abduction came a day after bodies of three policemen, who were earlier abducted from Shopian, were found dead. There has been a rise in attacks on those who join police force in Kashmir. The terrorists have even warned Kashmiris against joining the police. Terrorists killing terrorists: Is Kashmir witnessing a Mumbai underworld like scenario Last month, the Hizbul Mujahideen had threatened to kill every Kashmiri working for the Jammu and Kashmir police. In a video that was circulated on a chat group, the Pakistan based outfit said all Kashmiris working in the force will die, if they did not resign from their jobs in four days. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 16:50 [IST] Justice BV Nagarathna in line to become Indias first woman Chief Justice of India in 2027 Justice Ranjan Gogoi sworn in as 46th Chief Justice of India India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Oct 3: Justice Ranjan Gogoi was sworn in as the 46th Chief Justice of India today. He took over from Justice Dipak Misra who retired on October 2 after passing a string of verdicts that included the constitutional validity of Aadhaar, adultery law, the Sabarimala Temple issue among others. Justice Gogoi enrolled at the Bar in 1978 and practised at the Gauhati High Court of which he was made a permanent judge on February 28 2001. He was then transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court on September 9 2010 and became its Chief Justice on February 12 2011. He was elevated as the judge of the Supreme Court on April 23 2012. Also Congress welcomes Justice Gogoi's appointment as CJI Significant orders by Justice Ranjan Gogoi: A bench led by Justice Ranjan Gogoi, dismissed the appeal of Reliance Communication, challenging the Gujarat government's demand notices seeking to levy Rs 13-crore property tax on cell towers and telecom equipment installed on rooftops and building terraces in the state. In the case on whether coconut oil packaged in "small containers" be classified as edible oil or hair oil for the purpose of taxation, Justice Ranjan Gogoi and R. Banumathi were unable to arrive at a consensus to put this issue to rest. According to Justice Gogoi, Coconut oil would fall under the category of edible oil regardless of the size of its packaging while according to Justice Banumathi coconut oil, when it is packaged in small containers, would be classified as hair oil, regardless of whether it has been labelled as edible oil by the manufacturers. A Bench of Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice R Banumathi, observed that in the absence of arbitration agreement, the court can refer parties to arbitration only with written consent of parties either by way of a joint memo or joint application and not on oral consent given by their counsels. On May 2016, the bench comprising Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice PC Pant quashed a 2012 Bombay High Court order that dismissed CIT's power to re-assess income of Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan that he allegedly had from the popular TV quiz show, Kaun Banega Crorepati. Justice Ranjan Gogoi dismissed advocate Kamini Jaiswal's petition seeking a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the incidents of attacks on then JNU student union leader Kanhaiya Kumar 15 and 17 February 2016, at Patiala House Court while he was escorted to courtroom in a sedition case. A Bench headed by Justice Gogoi paved the way for the Assam government to identify the massive NRC exercise to identify illegal immigrants in the state. Who is 'rebel' Justice Ranjan Gogoi, the next CJI? A controversy: On 12 January 2018, Justices Ranjan Gogoi along with Justices J Chelameswar, M B Lokur, and Kurian Joseph of the Supreme Court of India, for the first time in the history of the Supreme Court, held a press conference, alleging problems plaguing the Supreme Court, failure in the justice delivery system and allocation of cases. {document1} Mamata and BJP: The two layers in their relation India oi-Shubham Ghosh Kolkata, Oct 3: The political equation between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has binary of sort which makes it challenging for both the parties to win conviction, especially in the state of West Bengal. On Monday, October 1, Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had a meeting with Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh at the state secretariat over issues that are related to the statecraft. Being a state at the border also one with extremism-influenced zones, it becomes a necessity for both the Centre and the Bengal government to coordinate on important issue like internal security. And given the personal rapport between Banerjee and Singh, cooperation and coordination between the two sides do not seem unlikely. At level of party politics, the relation is far too rough But the problem surfaces when the issue of party politics take centrestage. A day after the Bengal CM met the country's home minister, Kolkata saw an explosion that killed a child and injured many and the state's food minister outrightly blamed the BJP and RSS for it, saying it is a deep conspiracy by those indulging in the politics of hatred. He also said the chairman of the local municipality was the target of the attack and threatened that the TMC workers would not hit back. The state minister's remarks even before a formal investigation took place into the explosion kicked off a chain of reaction with the local BJP leaders saying the explosion was nothing but the result of the TMC's internal squabble. The Congress and Left - two powers that had once dominated the state's politics but lost much of their influence currently - also blamed the TMC's factionalism for the blast. Also Read | West Bengal: Where both politicians and terrorists play with bombs Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh later said the RSS is supposed to hold a route march on Mahalaya (October 8) in the place where the blast took place. He said the blast was deliberately carried out to scuttle the RSS's plan. A few days ago, the BJP had lashed out at the TMC over the death of two college students in Islampur allegedly in police firing and called a strike across the state which was condemned by the TMC. The fathers of the deceased were also flown to New Delhi by the BJP to meet its national president Amit Shah and also the chairman of the National Human Rights Commission Justice HL Dattu. It would have been interesting had the visit by the home minister to Kolkata taken place after the blast and not before. The home minister evaded questions over the deaths of the two students in Islampur and reports said that the state BJP workers were surprised that Singh did not condemn the killings that led to protests across the state. This scenario doesn't seem peculiar for this is a kind of arrangement that parties have now in the Indian federal functioning. In matters of administration, there is little the Centre and the states can do without each other's cooperation. But at the same time, the political issues aimed at extracting electoral mileage create major fissures between the same parties. This often results in a sense of alienation and frustration among the local cadres, especially of the national party as they feel that their regular struggle on the ground is going waste. Also Read | BJP eyes 25 LS seats, victory in 2021 state polls in Bengal The Congress has witnessed the same in the past. While a number of local leaders of the fragmented party have a strong dislike for CM Bannerjee, the central leadership knows that an alliance with the TMC supremo is what it requires as a weaker partner. This creates a duality and it is the local leadership which has to compromise often. Recently, the Congress changed its local chief in Bengal because he was too stubborn to accept any alliance with Banerjee for the upcoming elections. BJP-led Centre requires Mamata's cooperation The BJP needs to be aware that a similar pattern doesn't grow in its relationship with Banerjee. Although the saffron party's local leadership in Bengal has a repulsive take on the CM and its chief Amit Shah is also determined to see the back of the Banerjee government, the Centre requires the state's cooperation in matters of internal security and cooperation with the neighbouring state of Bangladesh. Banerjee herself has little to lose because she still has a strong grip on the ground in Bengal and the BJP can undo her influence in the state only through growing a constructive opposition which is not visible much now. The BJP needs to be careful that its relationship with the TMC at the lower rungs does not reach a point of no return which would only see the state falling further into chaos and it will then be a headache for its own government at the Centre to put things in order. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 11:55 [IST] Lashkars hawala network: Nepali currency adds new dimension to probe India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Oct 3: In furtherance of its probe following the busting of a terror funding module, the National Investigation Agency raided various places including the residence of a businessman from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir. The investigation being conducted following the busting of a Falah-e-Insaniyat module in Delhi has the led the National Investigation Agency to several other states. The NIA has learnt that some Delhi based individuals were receiving funds from the FIF operatives. This money in turn was used fund terror related activities. In hawala probe NIA unearths more routes that Lashkar used During the raids the NIA has recovered Rs 1 crore in cash and Rs 40,000 in Nepali currency. The discovery of the Nepali currency has added a new dimension to the probe. The NIA it may be recalled had arrested Mohammad Salman, Mohammad Salim and Sajjad Abdul Wani, residents of Srinagar. NIA sources tell OneIndia that while the money would land from foreign nations into Delhi first, it would be channelised through various other states. One such link has emerged in Rajasthan. The source also said that it was Salman who was in touch with a Dubai based Pakistani national, who is closely associated with the deputy chief of the FIF. NIA officials say that these are the channels through which money would make it to the other states. Our investigations have found that while the money made its direct landfall into Delhi, it would be go to other places through the various hawala dealers present in other state. One of the main states through which the funds would move into the other states such as Jammu and Kashmir was Rajasthan. Earlier the NIA had busted a funding racket between Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir. At that time it was found that the money was being moved in empty cylinders. However after the busting of that route, the hawala dealers have found other states through which they move the money into different places. The money would finally reach terror groups. In the name of Muslim welfare, a defence fund that controls India's terror, hawala network The discovery of the Rajasthan module has led the local cops to step up the heat. One Mohammad Salim was arrested on September 25 and the NIA suspects that he was the main mover of the cash. He had shifted to Delhi several years back, but gradually built up a network in Rajasthan. NIA sources also suspect that the money that reached the Falah-e-Insaniyat module in Delhi from Dubai may not have been limited for internal purposes alone. The money could have been channelised from Dubai to India following which it could have moved into Pakistan as well. The FIF is the financial wing of the Lashkar-e-Tayiba. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 13:57 [IST] Not Sanskrit alone, Tamil is also language of Gods: Madras HC You cannot drive at 120 kmph on highways says Madras HC Madras HC stays certain sub-clauses of new IT Rules Madras HC to hear actor Vijay's civil lawsuit against his parents, nine others 'What was Chennai Corporation doing since 2015 floods?': Madras HC pulls up civic body Madras HC allows DMK to hold protests in 102 places India oi-Chennabasaveshwar P Chennai, Oct 3: The Madras High Court Wednesday granted permission for public meetings to be conducted by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) at 102 places across the state. The DMK has decided to hold protest meeting against Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palanisamy. But the government did not allow these meetings, however, the DMK approached the madras High Court for permission. DMK passes resolution demanding resignation of Tamil Nadu DGP, Health Minister DMK organising secretary R S Bharathi, in his petition, submitted that police officials had rejected the applications filed by all respective district and town secretaries seeking permission for holding the meetings across the state in the notified places seeking adequate police protection. The trial was held before Justice Mahadevan. Chief prosecutor Vijay Narayanan argued that the protest would lead to law and order problems. P Wilson, who appeared for DMK, pointed out that other parties had already been given the right to protests in those places. Alagiri's rally: Expelled leader makes a fresh pitch to be re-inducted into DMK Out of 127 applications, the High Court has granted permission for 102 places and the DMK was ordered to find alternative for other 20 places. At the same time, the DMK was denied permission to protest in five places. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 17:45 [IST] Maharashtra BJP MLA quits, cites 'corruption' in Rafale deal as reason India pti-PTI Mumbai, Oct 3: A day after he met Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Wardha, BJP MLA Ashish Deshmukh Wednesday resigned from the Maharashtra Assembly, citing alleged corruption in the Rafale deal as the reason. Deshmukh had Tuesday announced his decision to quit as MLA and submitted his resignation to the Assembly Speaker Wednesday. Deshmukh, who represented the Katol constituency in the Vidrabha region, is likely to join the Congress which he had quit before the assembly polls four years ago, sources close to him said. Tanushree Dutta row: Maharashtra Minister defends Nana Patekar In a statement issued Wednesday evening, Deshmukh said schemes such as Make in India, Magnetic Maharashtra (the BJP-led state government's investment summit) and Skill India "showed no results on the ground". "Also, there is mega corruption in the Rafale deal," he alleged. On his meeting with Rahul Gandhi Tuesday, Deshmukh said, "Youths have a lot of expectations from him." Bhima-Koregaon: Maharashtra challenges release of Gautam Navlakha in SC Deshmukh said BJP leaders had reneged on the promise of creating a separate state of Vidarbha. "When I launched a hunger strike for creation of Vidarbha in 2013, BJP leaders Nitin Gadkari, Devendra Fadnavis and Vinod Tawde assured me of carving out a separate state once the BJP came to power. They did not keep the promise and did nothing for betterment of Vidarbha," he said. Meanwhile, a BJP leader said Deshmukh's resignation may not be accepted immediately as the party wants to avoid a by-poll to the seat ahead of the Winter Session of the state legislature starting next month. PTI MSP is just one aspect, problems faced by Indian farmers are wide ranging India oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, Oct 3: Thousands of farmers marched towards Delhi on Tuesday over a range demands including loan waiver, subsidised electricity and fuel, pension for farmers above 60 and implementation of recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission. The farmers in India face a lot of problems and a multi-pronged approach is needed to set things right in the agriculture sector. Several parties make farm loan waiver a major pitch for the elections. Soon after HD Kumaraswamy became Karnataka Chief Minister, he announced farm loan waivers and even Yogi Adityanath did it in UP to fulfil pre-poll promise. For one, the farm loan waiver is not a long term solution. It may provide relief to the farmer where the crop has been damaged due to a genuine problem like natural calamities etc, but is not a solution to deep rooted problems in the agriculture system. Another thing that the Centre government recently did was to hike the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for certain crops. What MSP hike seeks to address is the market volatility and fluctuating prices of agri products in the wholesale market. Sometimes the wholesale price of a certain crop falls so low that it fails to cover the cost of production incurred by the farmer. MSP ensures that such a sudden fall is taken care of by assuring a fixed minimum price in the market. Also Read | World Population day: Why increasing agricultural yield should be a top priority The real problems faced by the Indian farmers are wide ranging and little has been done to address these. The farmers have been unable to make good profit from agriculture, and the condition of farmers will not change unless they begin making profit. A typical Indian farmer is still seen a poor person tilling the land from morning to evening. Farmers have been unable to arrest the rising cost of production which depends on several factors such cost of fertilizers, irrigation costs, transportation costs, cost of other raw materials etc. Also Read | From MSP to doubling farmers' incomes, Modi govt committed to boost agricultural productivity Another reason which significantly affects farmers' income is low yield. Indian soils have been used for growing crops over thousands of years without caring much for replenishing. This has led to depletion and exhaustion of soils resulting in their low productivity. The average yields of almost all the crops are among the lowest in the world. One way to address this using right manures and fertilizers. Yield also depends on quality of seeds. Seed is a critical and basic input for attaining higher crop yields and sustained growth in agricultural production. Unfortunately, good quality seeds are out of reach of the majority of farmers. Irrigation is also a key factor that contributes to agricultural output. Although India is the second largest irrigated country of the world after China, only one-third of the cropped area is under irrigation. Also Read | Budget 2018: How will farmers income double, asks Manmohan Singh Lack of mechanisation effects the yield. Mechanisation needs massive investment and a farmer with small land holding may not be able to afford it. This is where the government should pitch in. In fact the small land holdings is in itself a big problem. A big farmer with a large holding will be in a better position to invest in quality agricultural practices. All in all, a holistic approach is the need of the hour to tackle agricultural problems in India. Several traditional agricultural practices must be shunned and new ways ought to be adopted. The government should not only take initiative to make farmers aware of modern agricultural techniques, but also should give financial help to change the way farming is being done over the years. This is multidimensional problem which needs a long drawn strategy to solve. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 9:34 [IST] by Mathias Hariyadi The authorities ordered the population to stay more than 4 km away from the crater. In the meantime, the hopes of rescuing the missing in the September 28th disaster are fading. The number of verified victims rises to 1,407. President Widodo again visiting the disaster sites. Jakarta (AsiaNews) - Five days after the earthquakes and the tsunami that devastated the cities of Palu and Donggala causing over 1,400 deaths, the eruption of Mount Soputan is alarming the already stricken population of the island of Sulawesi. Located about 600km northeast of Palu, the volcano erupted this morning, releasing a 4,000-meter ash column in the sky. Fearing the threat of lava and incandescent clouds, the authorities ordered the population to stay more than 4 km away from the crater. The government is monitoring the situation, but at the moment does not consider it necessary to evacuate the surrounding villages. Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado (North Sulawesi) continues to operate. Meanwhile, hopes of rescuing the missing from the September 28th disaster are fading and survivors are still waiting for the arrival of rescuers in remote areas hit by the earthquake. The number of verified victims rose to 1,407. For the second time since the beginning of the emergency, President Joko Widodo has returned to the disaster areas today to coordinate relief operations, while incidents of mass looting of food and other goods are increasing. More than 65 thousand homes have been damaged by the earthquake; there are more than 60,000 displaced people and according to UN agencies (200,000 people) urgently need help. Afghan territory must not be used to carry out terror attacks against other countries: BRICS Leaders Putin also to meet talented children and address a business submit during his India visit India oi-Vinod Kumar Shukla New Delhi, Oct 3: President of Russian Federation Vladimir Putin will arrive New Delhi at around 6.40 PM of the Indian time on October 4, 2018 on his two-day official visit to India from October 04-05, 2018. He will be here to participate in the 19th India-Russia Annual Bilateral Summit. External Affairs ministry of India informed that the Russian President will have his first meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg on the same day at 7.30 PM where both the leaders will discuss many issues concerning interest of both the countries. The next day that is on October 5, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin will have the detailed meeting in Hyderabad House at 11 in the morning along with many other officials. Relation of trust has been the key to India and Russia relations Leaders of both the countries will have a delegation level talks that will start at 11.30 and at around 1.30 PM agreement will be exchanged. It is expected that the two sides will sign the multi-billion-dollar S-400 surface-to-air missile system agreement which is Russia's most advanced air defence system. Besides that there is a possibility of many other agreement on cooperation to fight against terrorism, military cooperation, cooperation in the field of energy security and many other issues related to business and trade. India to gift Russia with MiG-21 jets during Putin's visit; a wise symbolic gesture The ministry sources said that Russian President will interact with a group of talented children after 2.30 PM at ITC Maurya. And after this interaction the Russian President will address India-Russia Business Summit as the president is coming with a business delegation as well. This is organised by Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) and Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP). India-Russia S-400 trade: Why Vladimir Putin's visit this week is too important President Putin will call on President Ram Nath Kovind at 4.30 PM at the Rashtrapati before departing at 5.40 in the evening. The last Annual Summit between India and Rsiia was held on June 1, 2017 during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russia. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 21:25 [IST] Three more Rafale jets to land in India from France in non-stop flight Rafale and S-400, a booster dose for IAF, says Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, Oct 3: Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa on Wednesday said that both Rafale and S-400 air defence missile system deals are like a booster dose. Backing the Narendra Modi government over the Rafale deal, the IAF chief added the Rafale was good aircraft and that it would be a game-changer when it comes to sub-continent. Speaking on the deal over the S-400 missile system, Dhanoa said that delivery of the system will be made in 24 months "as and when the government approves it." While addressing the press conference, the Air chief also said that the number of depleting squadrons in the IAF was a "major concern." With the Congress relentlessly attacking the BJP-government over the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) being left out, Dhanoa said,''It was decided to buy two squadrons through Government to Government, to meet up emergency requirements. HAL was involved in ToT (Transfer of Technology) and licensed production. There is no question of HAL being left out.'' Also Read | Akash, PAD, AAD and now S-400 triumf air defence missile system On being asked "if the IAF was informed when number of aircraft in Rafale deal was changed from 126 to 36, Dhanoa said,''At the appropriate level, IAF was consulted. IAF had given some options. It is up to the government to choose.'' The Air Chief Marshal also highlighted on the delay in several defence procurements. He said there has been delay in delivery schedule in contracts already executed to HAL. There is a three years delay in delivery of Sukhoi-30, 6 years delay in Jaguar, 5 year delay in LCA, and 2 year delay in delivery of Mirage 2000 upgrade. Dhanoa on Wednesday made it clear that the Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to acquire a total of of 239 (12 squadrons) Tejas aircraft. At a press briefing in New Delhi, the Air Chief Marshal said the IAF has reposed it's belief in Tejas and the development of LCA Mark-2 is in progress. His statements come at a time when the government has been accused of allegedly selecting Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence as partner for the Rafale deal over state-run aerospace behemoth Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. The government has been maintaining that it has no role in the selection of Reliance Defence by Dassault Aviation. Rains lash several parts of T'gana, IMD issues red alert to 14 districts; Schools, colleges to remain closed Rainfall in October highest in the month in last 120 years: IMD Red alert in 3 Kerala districts over heavy rain forecast, CM Vijayan asks for Centres help India oi-Deepika S Kochi, Oct 3: A red alert has been declared in three districts - Idukki, Thrissur and Palakkad - of Kerala for extremely heavy rainfall on Sunday by the Met department. The red alert comes after the weather department issued a warning about a low-pressure area in the Arabian Sea, close to Sri Lankan coast. The Met department has predicted heavy (7-11 cm) to very heavy (12-20 cm) rainfall over isolated places in Kerala on October 3, 4, 5 and 6. Extremely heavy rainfall (21 cm and above) is likely to occur at one or two places on October 7. Thunderstorms along with gusty winds are expected to occur at isolated places on October 5. Weather forecast for Oct 4: On and off rains likely in Hyderabad in next 24 to 48 hours Rough to very rough sea conditions are likely to prevail over south and central Arabian sea on October 6 and 7, IMD said. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into these areas and to reach safer coasts by October 5. "This is likely to develop into a cyclonic storm and a warning has been issued on the same. The predicted trajectory will be along the coast of Lakshadweep," Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said. The chief minister said that fishermen have been advised to reach safer coast by Friday. "Disaster Management Authority has met to assess the situation. We've sought support from central agencies and asked for five companies of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)," Vijayan said. The chief minister said the district administration has been directed to take necessary action to handle the crisis. "Tourists have been advised not to travel to hilly regions, especially to Munnar to see the Neelakurinji," he added. Over 400 people lost their lives after incessant rains and widespread flooding wreaked havoc in Kerala in August. Relation of trust has been the key to India and Russia relations India oi-Vinod Kumar Shukla New Delhi, Oct 3: Visit of President of Russian Federation Vladimir Putin to New Delhi from October 04-05, 2018, for the 19th India-Russia Annual Bilateral Summit is important on many counts as there have been many change on the diplomatic fronts. But Russia has always been a country to turn to whether good or bad time even during changing world order. India hold annual submit with Japan, Russia and the US. "Actually annual meetings raise expectations but defence deals don't happen every time. However, it has always been at the centre between India and Russia. Cooperation between India and Russia is also important because when India was not getting any support from anywhere. There were sanctions from many countries against India, it was Russia that helped the country out," Shashank, former foreign secretary, told Oneindia. Also Read | India to gift Russia with MiG-21 jets during Putin's visit; a wise symbolic gesture So it was only Russia that was providing all kinds of help to India always. Even at the time of existential problems. "Russia was always there to help India out like at the time of Bangladesh crisis and you get continuous help. Similarly when you did not get arms and ammunition from anywhere, you got is from Russia," said Shashank. Even the requirement of kerosene, diesel and petrol was met by Russia at the time of crisis. It was erstwhile USSR and Romanian experts who had come to India to help ONGC at the time of K D Malviya," said the former foreign secretary. So there has been a relation of trust with Russia. Actually both India and Russia have been emotional even in the matter of foreign policy so those bonds were significant. Shashank said that there might be the reason that relation of Russia with the west had been such that it had benefited India due to prevailing cod war of the time still Russia has always been around. So it was their necessity as well. Now, the situation at the moment that India is undergoing had prevailed earlier with Egypt but the African nation sided with the US leaving Russia in lurch as President of Anwar Sadab felt that Russians before giving arms and ammunition check with the US that which generation arms they were giving to Israel. So they give them little less to keep balance there. Also Read | India-Russia S-400 trade: Why Vladimir Putin's visit this week is too important But in a changing world order India must need to trade cautiously and in such a situation this annual bilateral meeting with one of the most trusted ally of India is very important. President Putin will hold official talks with the Prime Minister. He will also have a meeting with the President Ram Nath Kovind. The last Annual Summit was held on June 1, 2017 during the visit of Prime Minister to Russia. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 18:22 [IST] Tanushree Dutta row: Maharashtra Minister defends Nana Patekar India oi-Chennabasaveshwar P Mumbai, Oct 3: Maharashtra Home Minister Deepak Kesarkar defended actor Nana Patekar who is accused by Tanushree Dutta of sexually harassing her. Deepak Kesarkar, said, "Protection has been given against certain incidents that had happened and not against Nana Patekar. Unless there is a complaint you can't accuse a person of his status because he isn't only an actor but also a very well known social worker." It's time for 'Me Too India' campaign: Maneka Gandhi comes out in support of Tanushree Dutta "It is now known to everybody that they were not connected to anything, it is her personal fight with somebody, those people have attacked and they have admitted that they have attacked so protection was given, " he said. Tanushree Dutta kicked up a storm into Bollywood when she accused veteran actor Nana Patekar for sexually harassing her on the sets of Horn 'OK' Pleassss in 2008. The veteran actor has responded by sending her a legal notice, demanding a public apology for maligning his reputation. Mumbai gets a swanky and eco-friendly public toilet Apart from Nana, Tanushree also accused choreographer Ganesh Acharya, filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri and Rakesh Sarang among others, for harassing her during that time. MP CM requests EC to take action against people making false complain with it India oi-Vinod Kumar Shukla New Delhi, Oct 3: Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has met Chief Election Commissioner (EEC) and accused the Congress that it was causing confusion in the state by its lies and baseless complain against his government. The chief minister alleged the Congress for spoiling its image in the state. The Madhya Pradesh CM met with the CEC along with the Rajya Sabha MP Vinay Sahasrabuddhe from the state. Chouhan said that instead of contesting election in the state, the Congress is causing confusion by misusing the election commission and courts. Madhya Pradesh: Stones hurled at CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan's vehicle in Sidhi The CM also said that complain lodged by the Congress with the election commission that there were 60 lakh fake voter ID cards in the state but their complain proved to be wrong as nothing has come out of investigation and their complain proved to be baseless. Chouhan said that election commission is a constitutional body and people from many countries come to learn about election processes. The Congress by making false complain not only tries to influence its impartiality but also tries to distort its image. Chouhan said that such issues must be investigated properly and if the complain was found false then action must be initiated against complainant. Computer baba resigns as Minister of State, accuses BJP govt of being 'anti-religion' The MP CM also suggested the election commission that star campaigners of the party are supposed to take separate permission in every district but it would be better if permission is granted for the entire state to save time and resources. He also requested election commission that on the voting day number of men and women to be displayed after every hour. So if voting is less, then political parties might try to increase it. Rahul addresses rally in MP, escalates tirade on Modi government The CM also complaint to the election commission that Opposition is deliberately trying to create negative environment against the ruling party. Actually when the government tells its achievement by newspaper advertisements which is being termed as paid news by them and complain about it. He said that such matters must be properly investigated. Voting for Congress is like strengthening enemies of nation: BJP's Ravinder Raina India oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, Oct 3: Stepping up the attack on the Congress ahead of 2019 Lok Sabha elections, BJP's Jammu and Kashmir chief Ravinder Raina has said that voting for the grand old party would be like strengthening the enemies of the nation. Alleging that Congress leaders are in nexus with Pakistani terrorists, Raina recalled a remark by Ghulam Nabi Azad which was supported by the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad had in June alleged that Indian army kills more civilians than terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir. After Azad's remarks, the Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit issued a statement saying "we have been of the same opinion as the ones expressed by Ghulam Nabi Azad and others". Also Read | You tried Modi and he broke your trust, now try Congress: Rahul Gandhi "Ghulam Nabi Azad made baseless allegations against Army operating in Kashmir and LeT's Hafiz Saeed applauded him. It means Congress leaders are in nexus with Pakistani terrorists and anti-national forces. Nation won't forgive them. Voting for Congress means strengthening enemies and traitors," Raina told ANI today (October 3). The BJP has been trying to build a narrative on lines that both the Congress and Pakistan are against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also Read | BJP hits back at Ghulam Nabi Azad for comments on Governor's rule Last week, the BJP drew a parallel between the Congress and Pakistani leaders, saying both want Prime Minister Narendra Modi removed from Indian politics. Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson Sambit Patra read out tweets attacking Modi posted by Pakistani leaders, including its Prime Minister Imran Khan and present and former ministers, and said they have been campaigning for Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The Congress and Pakistan have this commonality that they have "frustration" with Modi, and their "only aim is to remove Modi anyway from Indian polity", he claimed. Also Read | Rajnath disapproves Ravinder Raina's 'apna banda hai' remark Patra accused Gandhi of targeting the Indian Army by using the term surgical strikes mockingly to attack the Modi government. Pakistan has been using his tweets to attack India, he said. Weather forecast for Oct 4: On and off rains likely in Hyderabad in next 24 to 48 hours India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, Oct 3: Here is the weather forecast for Bengaluru, Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai and Thiruvananthpuram for October 4. Bengaluru: The weathermen at Skymet Weather have forecast that during the next 24 hours, Scattered light to moderate rains will be experienced over Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Maharashtra, Assam, Coastal Karnataka and South interior Karnataka. Meanwhile, the maximum temperature will be recorded around 30 degree Celsius and humidity will be around 70 per cent. Delhi: Delhi on Wednesday woke up to a bright and sunny morning. The maximum temperature is expected to settle at 35 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Days are likely to stay warm for next 10 to 15 days following which, the day temperatures will start to decline. Dry winds from North-west direction have reduced the humidity and the sky condition is also clear. The maximum temperature will be recorded around 34 degree Celsius and humidity will be around 55 per cent. Hyderabad: Telangana along with its capital city of Hyderabad has been reeling under hot weather conditions ever since the Monsoon has started retreating from the parts of the country. As per Skymet weather, On and off patchy rains are expected during the next 24 to 48 hours, which may bring in some relief. Meanwhile, the maximum temperature would be recorded around 32 degree Celsius and humidity around 67 per cent. Mumbai: With Monsoon 2018 retreating from the neighborhood, Mumbai is now battling hot weather conditions. Both the day and night temperature would continue to settle above average, making weather uncomfortable at least for next two days. As per Skymet weather, Mumbaikars would see relief only during the late afternoon after the sea breeze sets in. Any major respite is only expected by October 5 or 6. Meanwhile, the maximum temperature would be recorded around 34 degree Celsius and humidity around 68 per cent. Chennai: The weathermen at Skymet Weather have forecast that during the next 24 hours light to moderate rains with one or two heavy spells are expected to continue over Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Meanwhile, the maximum temperature would be recorded around 30 degree Celsius and humidity around 76 per cent. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 15:32 [IST] West Bengal: Where both politicians and terrorists play with bombs India oi-Vicky Nanjappa Kolkata, Oct 3: A bomb blast claimed the life of an eight year old child and nine people were injured in an explosion at Kolkata on Tuesday. The blast took place at Nagerbazar in Kolkata's northern suburbs. A political blame game is already on and the ruling TMC has pointed fingers at the BJP, a charge that has been rubbished. Bodhgaya blasts: How an old SIMI cadre orchestrated the attack Initial investigations point towards the use of ammonium nitrate, a common substance that has been used in the series of blasts that the Indian Mujahideen carried out. This continues to be the most easily available substance for any terror group and despite restrictions, it is freely available due to its use in the agriculture sector. Police sources tell OneIndia that the bomb had been prepared by a professional. We are not sure of the motive as yet, but the accused had used a socket bomb. A socket bomb is an improvised explosive device, Ananda Roy, the deputy commissioner of police, Barrackpore Commissionerate said. The police at first suspected it to be a cylinder blast. However investigations found ammonium nitrate and a few nails packed into the bomb. However there have been no traces of gun powder found as yet. Whether it was an act by a terror group or part of a political slugfest is yet to be ascertained. Bombs have been an integral part of politics in West Bengal as has been the case in Kerala. Easy availability: West Bengal has over the years become the store house for bombs. The incident at Burdwan clearly showed that foreign terror groups such as the Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen, Bangladesh were operating with ease within the state. The bigger ploy at Burdwan was to manufacture nearly 500 bombs before transporting it to Bangladesh and then carrying out a series of explosions. Multiple blasts in Kabul, casualty feared The discovery of bombs and using it against political rivals is extremely common. Between 2015 and 2018 the recovery of bombs in Bengal has been exceptionally high. Close to 500 bombs from various parts of the state have been recovered. Intelligence Bureau officials say that the situation in the state is extremely confusing. There is a bomb factory for both terrorists and politicians. In several cases of seizures it has been found that the bombs were meant for political wars. However when it came to the Burdwan incident, it was clear that the bombs were being manufactured clearly for terror related purposes. There is also another side of the story. The bombs have not been used only for activities within West Bengal, but in other parts of the state as well. Take for instance the recent investigations into the Bodhgaya incident. The National Investigation Agency arrested two natives of West Bengal for planting explosives at the Mahabodhi temple in Bihar's Bodh Gaya in January this year. Incidentally they were arrested from a labour camp at Mallapuram in Kerala. Both are part of the JMB which has one of its strongest modules in West Bengal. Further investigations also showed that they were part of the Burdwan episode as well. In the Burdwan investigations it became clear that the JMB and its operatives were working with ease in the state. They were able to procure material easily and prepared the bombs with no problem. IB sources say that over the years bomb making has become a thriving cottage industry. Both the political parties as well as the terror employ local youth to make these bombs. They are paid in the range of Rs 70 and Rs 100 to prepare these bombs and over the years it has become a thriving industry. West Bengal: 1 dead, 9 injured in blast at Dum Dum Nagar Bazar, Minister blames RSS Once the bombs are made, they are stocked in safe houses and then distributed as per the requirement. The sale of bombs is the highest during the elections, various incidents reported from Malda, Sattore, Birbhum and Burdwan have shown. In 2015, a seizure of 150 bombs from Birbhum was reported. Prior to this 70 bombs were seized from Sattore, while in Malda 30 such bombs were discovered. In 2015 alone the number of bombs seized from West Bengal stood at 350. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 10:26 [IST] Hyderabad rape case: The rapist will be caught and killed in encounter, Telangana minister GITAM University director dies in accident in Alaska International oi-Chennabasaveshwar P Alaska , Oct 3: Dr. MVVS Murthy, Telugu Deasm Party (TDP) MLC and director of GITAM University, lost his life in a car accident in United States' Alaska on Tuesday. Five persons were present in the car, four people including the MLC died while one person survived with injuries. Dr. Mathukumilli Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Murthi was elected twice in 1991 and in 1999 as a member of 10th and13th Lok Sabha from Visakhapatnam and had represented Standing Committee on Finance, Consultative Committee of Civil Aviation and Public Accounts Committee., etc. Also Read | Telangana IT Minister slams Amit Shah for questioning KCR move to opt for early polls He received best Parliamentarian award during his tenure and was felicitated by the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. The philanthropist in Dr.Murthi has contributed for the establishment of various charitable trusts and foundations i.e. Pragati Charitable Trust, Kuchipudi Kalakshetra, M.P.M.Trust, VBC Educational Society, GITAM Trust and GITAM Foundation etc. Also Read | Telangana Mahakutami: Why has the CPI-M stayed away from TDP-Congress Dr. MVVS Murthy, popularly known as M.V.V.S.Murthi was born in an affluent agricultural family in picturesque Konaseema area of Moolapolam Village, Ainavilli Mandal, East Godavari District Andhra Pradesh on 3rd July, 1938. After formal schooling at his native place, he moved on to Kakinada for higher studies and graduated in Economics from P.R.Govt.College. He obtained Masters Degree in Politics & Public Administration, B.L., and also Ph.D., in Economics from Andhra University. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 11:22 [IST] The opening Mass of the Synod was held in St Peters Square. Young Indians want young people to become more involved because they are responsible for the Church. The number of vocations is down, but young people helped out recent flood victims in Kerala. Vatican City (AsiaNews) Among the multitude taking part in the opening Mass of the Synod dedicated to young people in St Peters Square some were from India. Speaking to AsiaNews, some said that the Church must listen more to young people, involve them in its initiatives, rejuvenate its leadership with younger blood, and support families in spiritually educating the new generations. Some note that young people are active in Catholic associations, but others complain of a void in many Indian parishes where there is little room for them". Above all, the common denominator seems to be the inability to understand young people, their dreams and aspirations; at the same time, they stressed the need to accompany them in their journey of vocation, discernment and support of the faith. The need to understand young people and guide them is the reason for Pope Francis to convene the synod. However, the small number of youth delegates admitted to the meetings (36 from all countries vs 266 Church leaders) and their lack of vote have been a controversial issue in the past few days. Sisters Joshna and Alekhya, members of the Congregation of St Mary Magdalene Postel, both from Andhra Pradesh, were in the crowd in St Peters Square. They told AsiaNews that there is a visible drop in vocations in India. To counter this, their community holds weekly meetings with parish catechists after Sunday services. Both believe that the Church "must make young people rediscover the beauty of faith, prayer, and inspire them to work in society and with the poor". However, they acknowledge that they are not tasked with meeting young people, catechists are. Later we met Ranjith Kumar Pentareddy, a deacon with the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME), from Hyderabad. He was in St Peters with his uncle Vijay Kumar Duppimpudi, who said: "In most of the parishes there are no initiatives dedicated to young people. Few participate in events." Without youth, Ranjith noted, "the Church does not exist. It is our task to attract them and involve them more with the leadership. They must feel that they are responsible for the Church." Young people "should not be afraid to profess their faith, despite the tensions triggered by Hindu nationalists". According to Vijay, "we must also rejuvenate the leadership and start again with the spiritual education given to families". Speaking of responsibility, various people from Kerala came with different experiences, people like Fr Varghese Pirul, of the diocese of Arnakulam, and Fr Jimmichan, secretary of the Syro-Malabar Church. In their state, youth are "very active at the level of associations and movements, like the Kerala Catholic Youth Movement, Siro-Malabar Youth Movement, Christian Life Charities, and the Catholic Mission League. They meet once a week and carry out various tasks. During the recent floods they handed out basic necessities, helping people in need." All of them are young, Fr Varghese said. They "have goals in life, want to study, work and establish themselves". How Pakistan fell into Chinas debt trap International oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Oct 3: On Monday, Pakistan's Railways Minister, Sheikh Rasheed said that the country had cut the size of the biggest Chinese Silk Road project by 2 billion US dollars. He cited the country's debt levels while making this statement. "Pakistan is a poor country that cannot afford huge burden of the loans," Rasheed told a news conference in the city of Lahore. China has become the biggest lender for Pakistan and it clear from the minister's statements that they fear a debt trap. Pakistan, by 2024 will have to pay back to China 100 billion US dollars of the total investment of 18.5 billion USD which has been invested on account of bank loans in 19 early harvest projects under the CPEC. Pakistan owes 19 billion USD to China. The CPEC loans add 14 billion USD to Pakistan's total debt, raising it to 90 billion USD by 2019 says a report in the Committee for the Abolition of Illegitimate Debt. Also Read | Pakistan takes advantage of its strategic location to win powerful nations by its side China has become the biggest lender for Pakistan. While the CPEC is aimed at transforming the Pakistan economy, the fact of the matter is that it would come at a very heavy price. It would in the long run go on to make Pakistan a colony of China. It is in this context that Pakistan decided to cut the Silk Road project as the loans from China are piling up. Piling debt: The figures by the State Bank of Pakistan show that China's bi-lateral debt to Pakistan stood at 7.2 billion USD by June 2017 and this increased by over 3 billion USD in four years. Moreover the currency swaps in Pakistan stood at 1.5 billion USD, which in turn took the figures to 8.7 billion USD. The Industrial and Commerce Bank of China, Pakistan branch secured a loan of 2.7 billion USD from its parent firm and later swapped it with the Pakistan rupee and this took the debt up to 12.1 billion USD. Also Read | New Pakistan government equally keen to work with China; CPEC a non issue A report in the www.cadtm.org says that in addition to this, Pakistan's debt liabilities to direct investors from China stood at around 3.5 billion USD and the biggest investment in the last few years is from China mobile adding to the total amount of 17.1 billion USD. Pakistan's debt liabilities have risen from 83 billion USD to 88.9 billion USD until December 2017 and the amount has grown further after that. The report while citing experts says that Pakistan will have to pay back 100 billion USD by 2024 of the total investment of 18.5 billion USD, which China had invested on account of banks loans in 19 early harvest projects most of them relating to the energy sector under CPEC. The interest on these loans will be around 7 per cent per annum payable in 25 to 40 years and this would mean Pakistan would be paying China around 8 billion USD per month starting 2018 for the next 43 years, the report further notes. Suu Kyi stripped off her Canadian citizenship International oi-PTI Ottawa, Oct 3: Parliament of Canada decided to revoke the Canadian citizenship of Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar's civilian leader for her silence over the violence committed against Myanmar's Rohingya people and for her inability to take action against the issue. The Senate voted to strip off her honour which was given to her in 2007. The upper house's move follows a similar unanimous vote in the House of Commons last week. Suu Kyi is the first person to have her honorary Canadian citizenship revoked. A United Nations fact-finding mission reported last month that the Myanmar's military has systematically killed thousands of Rohingya civilians, burned hundreds of their villages and engaged in ethnic cleansing and mass gang rape. It called for top generals to be investigated and prosecuted for genocide. Also Read | Speed of Rohingyas return is up to Bangladesh says Suu Kyi The Senate has also followed the lead of the Commons in recognizing that the crimes against humanity committed by the Myanmar military against the Rohingya constitute genocide. "We must recognize this atrocity for what it is," said Senate. Ratna Omidvar, who introduced the motion to revoke Suu Kyi's citizenship Tuesday said "It is genocide. We must call it as it is." Suu Kyi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for her fight for democracy in Myanmar. "At that point she was a champion for change and human rights ... The world pinned its hope on her as the shining light and hope for a democratic and peaceful Myanmar," said Omidvar. "As we all now know, that was not to be." Also Read | Canada MPs vote to strip Myanmar's Suu Kyi of honorary citizenship over Rohingyas Omidvar said Suu Kyi has denied the atrocities, restricted access to international investigators and journalists, defended the military and denied humanitarian aid for the Rohingya. "We need to send a strong signal here in Canada and around the world that if you're an accomplice of genocide, you are not welcome here. Certainly not as an honorary Canadian citizen." Suu Kyi also being the Nobel Prize Winner was honoured with Canadian Citizenship in 2007 by the Parliament of Canada. However her inactivity over the issue of Rohingya persecution in Myanmar which occurred in 2016 where the military allegedly killed Rohingya people which made the Parliament of Canada to reconsider their decision. PTI For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 12:12 [IST] Donald Trump Thereafter Trump imitated Ford's question and answer session at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing last week. "How did you get home? I don't remember. How'd you get there? I don't remember. Where is the place? I don't remember. How many years ago was it? I don't know," Trump said mocking Ford. "What neighbourhood was it in? I don't know. Where's the house?' I don't know. Upstairs, downstairs, where was it?' I don't know, but I had one beer. That's the only thing I remember," Trump said amid cheering and laughter from his supporters. Also Read |Trump defends Brett Kavanaugh; Says "I don't drink" Brett Kavanaugh being sworn in to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee The allegations, he said, had a great impact on Judge Kavanaugh. "A man's life is in tatters. His wife is shattered," he said and alleged that the Democrats are behind this. "They destroy people. They want to destroy people. These are really evil people," Trump said. Trump on Monday (Oct 1) jokingly remarked that he doesn't have drinking habit which he considers to be one of his good qualities, in reference to Kavanaugh who earlier spoke about his drinking habits during the testimony of his sexual assault allegations. Also Read |FBI has free rein' to probe his SC nominee Brett Kavanaugh, says Donald Trump People hold signs during a protest against Kavanaugh outside the offices of Sen. Dean Heller, R-Nev. in Las Vegas. "I'm not a drinker. I can honestly say I never had a beer in my life, OK? It's one of my only good traits. I don't drink," Trump told reporters jokingly, resulting in a burst of laughter from some reporters at a White House news conference. "Whenever they're looking for something, I'm going to say, 'I never had a glass of alcohol'. I've never had alcohol. ... Can you imagine if I had what a mess I'd be? I'd be the world's worst. But I never drank. I never drank," Trump said. A large group of protesters against Brett Kavanaugh walk to offices of Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz.,A on Capitol Hill in Washington The President was responding to a question on the drinking habits of his Supreme Court nominee Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who is facing allegations of sexual assault when he was in high school and college. Kavanaugh testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on sexual assault allegations, wherein he also talked about his drinking habits. On Friday, September 28, the Senate Judiciary Committee formally asked the White House to order the FBI to carry out a supplemental background investigation, saying it should probe "current credible allegations" against Kavanaugh. In compliance with the Senate's request, Trump then asked the FBI to reopen its background probe into Kavanaugh with the process "limited in scope and completed in less than one week". Italy finds patient with new COVID-19 strain which UK said is out of control Two Schoolgirls told their skirts were distracting because of their curvy figures International oi-Shubham Ghosh London, Oct 2: For a moment, one would think that this news is from an ultra-conservative world. But no. It's origin is in the West which is known to be a developed world. According to a report in Mail Online, two teenage schoolgirls were left shocked after they were told that their knee-length skirts were too "distracting" because of their "curvy figures"! And this came from none else but their deputy head teacher - even a bigger shocker. According to the report, Gemma Porter, mother of Ellie and her friend Jasmin Stacey - both aged 15 - said the duo was threatened with detention since their dresses were said to be "too short" and they were asked to wear shin-length skirts. Also Read | She is blind but she is a professional skier and not afraid to dance either Thoirty-five-year-old Porter, who is from Totton, Hampshire, said the girls were being "punished for having curves" by Hounsdown School's head teacher Julie Turvey and deputy David Veal who, she alleged, even said that the skirts would be appropriate for girls with "more slender figures". Porter also said that when she approached the school authorities last week, she was asked to buy a new skirt by the next morning or else the "inappropriate" skirt could see her daughter placed in detention, the report added. The shock didn't end here. After Porter and Jasmin's mother had a discussion with the school authorities about the skirts - which they had worn in the previous term - the guardians took their daughters to the shop to buy new skirts and guess what: The teachers also accompanied them! Also Read | This Bengaluru college has started a course to teach men to be equal partners at home At the shops, the schoolgirls tried eight skirts that seemed "unsuitable" and according to Porter, Veal and his wife bought skirts for the girls that were made from a silky fabric and allegedly seemed to be see-through in the light. Porter also said that she had asked the school authorities to tell them who the skirt was distracting, but there was no clear response on that. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 9:58 [IST] Why Britains cats and dogs need to pray for a good Brexit International oi-Shubham Ghosh Belgium, Oct 3: European Commission (EC) President Jean-Claude Juncker has given a stern message to Great Britain. He has said that if Brexit goes wrong, then not only British planes may not be able to land in the European Union region but even a four-day quarantine may be imposed on cats and dogs passing from the UK to continental Europe and again on their return. Juncker, who was speaking at a public meeting in Germany's Freiburg on Monday, October 1, Juncker said: "What's going to happen to air traffic in Europe if everything goes wrong? Brits face pet quarantines and no flights 'if everything goes wrong'." Metro.co.uk reported. The EC leader also warned British Prime Minister Theresa May that there must be an agreement on the Irish border he she wanted a deal on Brexit. He said the EU still wanted a pact though the key elements of May's Chequers blueprint for Brexit in an informal meeting at Salzburg in the Austrian Alps were rejected. Also Read | Trump makes peace with EU; reaches deal to de-escalate trade war "When it comes to the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, we are sticking to the point of view we have expressed so many times - Ireland first," Juncker was quoted as saying. Juncker also said that there was "no real Brexit campaign in terms on actual information" about what would happen in the UK after the procedure is complete. "What I really regret in the context of Brexit is that there was no real Brexit campaign in terms of actual information in the United Kingdom. The people are finding out now - including British ministers and ministers on the continent - how many questions it poses, all the things we need to resolve," Also Read | Theresa May irritated with talk of leadership change "I ask myself what is going to happen to the 250,000 dogs and cats who leave the European continent each year. Right now they just pass through the customs, all these dogs and cats coming to mainland Europe each year. There are lots of people in Europe who just want people and animals to just cross borders, but I think we are going to have a four-day quarantine. If you want to go to Brittany for eight days for holidays, then maybe you need to leave the dog or cat at home, or maybe you will stay home altogether." He said. Members of farmers' body detained in Lucknow for trying to burn effigies of PM Modi, Shah Shocking! Minor killed for resisting molestation in UP Lucknow oi-Vikas SV Lucknow, Oct 3: In a shocking incident, a minor girl was allegedly beaten to death in Uttar Pradesh's Mainpuri district for resisting molestation attempt, said reports. The incident took place on Tuesday (October 2). Ironically, the loathsome violent incident took place on the 149th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi who was a staunch believer of non-violence. 16 year old boy beaten to death in Kanpur The three men allegedly responsible for the 11-year-old girl's death have been arrested. The victim, who was returning from school after attending Gandhi Jayanti function, was dragged to nearby bushes by the three accused. When the girl resisted their molestation attempt, she was beaten up brutally and killed, said a News 18 report. The three men then hung her body from a tree to make the death look like a suicide, the report added. Mainpuri: Police says,"Body of a 11th class girl has been found hanging from a tree. As per the information, while the girl was on her way back from school when she was beaten by 3 boys who later hanged her from a tree.All 3 have been arrested.Body has been sent for examination." pic.twitter.com/u9mqXwC5B8 ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 3, 2018 Villagers informed the police after the victim's body was found hanging from a tree. UP: Video of cops abusing girl, thrashing her went viral for being in 'relationship' with Muslim man Some reports say that even a fourth man was involved in the incident who is said to be on the run. In September, a teenager was allegedly beaten to death by a group of boys for talking to the girlfriend of one of the accused persons in Kidwai Nagar locality in Kanpur. He was a friend of the girl living in his neighbourhood, but her boyfriend did not approve of him talking to her frequently and had warned the victim many times in the past to stay away. For more Lucknow news, Click here By Mata Press Service The old joke about the best place to get a heart attack in Vancouver is in a cab has been given a new meaning with a Human Rights Tribunal decision, that has made the rights of foreign-trained professionals in Canada stronger. The utility of the decision by the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal is enormous and could change a seemingly inequitable landscape for foreign-trained professionals, reported Canadian Lawyers Magazine. In the decision, Pakistani immigrant Muhammad Haseeb applied for the $86,700-a-year position as a project engineer, which would have commenced following his graduation from McGill University. Although ineligible to work in Canada, Haseeb decided to check permanent resident on his job application, because he knew that failing to do so would be fatal to his application. At the time of his application, Imperial Oil had a policy dating back to 2004 that offered entry-level positions to only candidates eligible to work in Canada on a permanent basis. At the hearing, Imperial Oil defended its policy on the premise that the requirement guaranteed the longevity of the employment relationship with its employees, as well as helped to realize the aim of developing lifelong corporate employees within the company. The phrase legally able to work in Canada on permanent basis appears daily in job postings across the country, argued Chantal Tie, Haseebs lawyer from the Human Rights Legal Support Centre. At a time when the Canadian government is begging for skilled professionals, this bar to employment is absurd. It also constitutes discrimination, because the concept of permanence is linked with citizenship and country of origin, she told the Toronto Star. The tribunal found that the permanence requirement imposed by the employer throughout the hiring process constituted a violation of the code, which did not fall into any statutory exceptions or exemptions; nor did it amount to a bona fide occupational requirement. The employer had engaged in direct discrimination. The HRTO also criticized Imperial Oil for intentionally discriminating against applicants by having the requirement blatantly placed in job postings and on its written application forms. The utility of the Imperial Oil decision to foreign-trained professionals is explosive, stated Tara Vasdani, a civil litigator at Mills & Mills LLP in an article entitled The rights of foreign-trained workers just got stronger, published by Canadian Lawyers Magazine this month. There are more than 7,000 foreign-trained doctors residing just in Ontario. The total number in Canada exceeds 10,000 each year. Annually, according to CIC, more than 2,000 general practitioners and specialists are predicted to arrive in Canada as federal immigrants. A 2012 report by the federal immigration department revealed that of 50,000 cab drivers across Canada, 200 were doctors or had PhDs, while a shocking 20 per cent had an undergraduate or masters degree. At the same time, according to the Fraser Institute, Canada is in the midst of a physician shortage. Jeffrey Reitz, professor and director of the ethnic, immigration and pluralism studies program at the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto, in his essay titled Taxi Driver Syndrome: Behind-the-scenes immigration changes are creating new problems on top of old ones, wrote: Are immigrant professionals still driving taxis? The answer is yes. They are also mopping floors, bagging groceries, guarding office buildings, delivering pizzas, waiting tables and working at call centres. . . . The problem is known as brain waste and some economists estimate its cost to Canada as totaling at least $3 billion a year, not to mention the ruined dreams suffered by the immigrants themselves. Vasdani said the decision provides the first fulsome interpretation of the application of the ground of citizenship status in the context of job applications and hiring, and it has far-reaching implications. Barriers to employment and career realizations for foreign-trained professionals in Canada are not new, nor are they stagnant. According to a report released in January 2016, nearly 850,000 Canadians more than 60 per cent of whom are immigrants end up under-employed or unemployed because their credentials arent recognized in Canada. Whats the bottom line, then? Canadas foreign policy combined with the corporate upper hand is no joke but in 2018, foreign-trained workers have some options, she concluded. Catch up on food and beverage mergers and acquisitions THE Australian food and beverage sector will continue to be a focus of merger and acquisition activity as firms look to capitalise on the countrys reputation for high quality produce. The $111 billion food, beverage, grocer and fresh produce industry is Australias largest manufacturing sector. A new report from Pitcher Partners shows $600 million of M&A activity in the sector for the first half of 2018 after a bumper 2017 experienced a total of $2.8 billion. Three big deals the acquisition of Koroit dairy facility, Noisette bakery and Darrell Lea Confectionary have driven up the proportion of consumer sector deals led in the food sector. Nearly two-thirds of consumer deals by value were in the food sector in the first half of 2018, well above the long-term average of 15-20 per cent. Asian market interest Pitcher Partners Melbourne partner corporate finance, Michael Sonego, said total M&A deals this year may not match 2017, but momentum was building due to continued interest in Australia as the preferred location for buyers looking to take advantage of demand for high quality Australian food products, particularly from the Asian market. This year is likely to be a little down on 2017 but we are seeing it leading towards a very strong 2019, Mr Sonego said. I think the food sector is an attractive area for everyone. We have had private equity firms in here every week looking at the health food and drink category. It is increasingly on their radar. So, you have the private equity firms, but also the larger international players it is attractive to foreign investors and foreign businesses looking to access the Asian market via Australia. Mr Sonego said the local food and beverage sector was also benefiting from increased domestic demand, which was also attracting interest from overseas investors. The Australian economy has done well comparatively for some time and that has increased demand for good quality food products, Mr Sonego said. Asian middle-class families continue to seek good quality foods for themselves and their families and there are big food safety concerns, which combined with the clean, green, image of Australia in the marketplace, has increased domestic demand for Australian produce. Also in Australian Food News Pitcher Partners is an association of independent firms located in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane and Newcastle. Pitcher Partners is an independent member of Baker Tilly International. Mr Sonego said although the food and beverage sector was a strong performer, future strength would be dependent on generating scale, efficiency and agility across the full value chain to meet the demands of future global customers. Maintaining a greater share of food processing onshore and better differentiating Australias food products from competitors are essential elements of the food and beverage sectors future road map, he said. Pitcher Partners recently acted for US-owned OSI Group, which expanded its Australian operations through a merger with family-owned poultry and cheesemaking group Turi Foods, allowing it to vertically integrate the merged business to build a world-class food solutions group. Mr Sonego added that the continued growth in domestic demand for craft beers far exceeding the growth in demand for mainstream beers would also be the catalyst for ongoing M&A activity. Perth-based Gage Roads Brewing recently acquired Matsos Broome Brewery for $16.44 million to expand its range of boutique offerings. Is an anti-Israeli product campaign to blame for Max Brenners problems? IS the boycott divestment sanctions campaign against Israeli products to blame for the troubles of chocolate and coffee shop chain Max Brenner (Australia)? One expert commenting since the chain of 37 Australian stores with 600 employees entered voluntary administration seems to think so. Business trends expert Dr Lauren Rosewarne from The University of Melbourne told news.com.au today there may be a political factor playing against the business. Max Brenner was in 1996 founded as a small shop selling handmade chocolates in Raanana, Israel, by Max Fichtman and Oded Brenner who combined their names. The Australian chain is a separate entity to Max Brenner in the US, Israel, Singapore and the Philippines. Dr Rosewarne said: While its hard to determine whether it was a significant factor in Australia, Max Brenner with its origins in Israel has been, at various times, the focus of protests, she said. This was perhaps also a factor in its demise. Max Brenner opened in Australia in 1999 different to todays landscape dominated by the mega-trend of health and wellbeing, almost a religion of its won with sugar as its devil. Israeli connection not to blame Food law expert Joe Lederman of Foodlegal, a law firm specialising in product and marketing compliance and which is also the publisher of Australian Food News, disagreed with Dr Rosewarnes political analysis. I dont think the Israeli connection has any negative connotations amongst Australian and visiting Asian consumers in Australia, Mr Lederman said. He said Max Brenner Australias problems were possibly related to some wrong commercial decisions by their management. But there was a mix of other headwinds. Greater competition from boutique chocolate makers, such as Godiva. Better-located competitors, particularly near large international hotels in Sydney and Melbourne catering for high-end international tourists. Coffee makers and cafes better catering for chocolate consumers while supplying also chocolate gift packs. And this also comes at a time when anti-obesity health campaigns are targeting sugary foods and the consumers sweet tooth, Mr Lederman said. Overall, consumption of chocolate is possibly also under pressure as its production costs internationally have been rising. Nestle in the USA saw the writing on the wall for its high-volume lower-priced chocolate business in conventional retailers such as supermarkets. That shift in mass consumption has probably also rubbed off badly on overall sales, including others looking after the chocolate market, even at the premium boutique end. This is probably a wake-up call for many food businesses. Its important to keep innovating to stay relevant business is about the present and the future and brands cannot just rely on their past history, Lederman said. Also in Australian Food News Our website uses cookies to improve your experience. Learn more By AusSMC Researchers say they've successfully used a CRISPR-based gene drive to cause the collapse of a population of caged malaria-carrying mosquitoes by targeting a gene that determines whether an individual mosquito develops as a male or a female. Research article: A CRISPRCas9 gene drive targeting doublesex causes complete population suppression in caged Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes. Nature Biotechnology https://doi.org/10.1038/nbt.4245 "In this study, scientists created a new gene drive that disrupts development of female malarial mosquitoes (Anopheles gambiae) and causes their caged populations to crash. Andrea Crisantis group at Imperial College, UK has used CRISPR technology to create a mutation in a gene (doublesex) that prevents normal development of biting females but does not affect harmless male mosquitoes. By linking the mutation to a CRISPR-based machinery that ensures it is transmitted nearly 100 per cent of the time, the mutation quickly spreads through a population, turning more and more females into intersex mosquitoes that cant bite and reproduce. The heavy hit on egg production was enough to cause total collapse of experimental caged populations in less than a year. This is not the first gene drive for suppression of malarial mosquitoes that Crisantis group has created, but the doublesex construct seems much more resilient to mosquitoes developing resistance to it, and this is what gives hope it might work in the field. Field trials are indeed the ultimate test for the efficacy of suppression gene drives, but the releases of such GM mosquitoes are met with heavy regulatory constraints and public skepticism. An important breakthrough happened this August, when Burkina Fasos national biosafety authority granted permission to release 10,000 non-gene-drive GM Anopheles mosquitoes, as a first step towards eventual rollout of the gene drive constructs like Crisantis. Exciting and hopeful times in fight against malaria are ahead." "This is an interesting development in the potential use of gene drive systems to suppress pest populations. In particular, the authors target the essential doublesex gene that is involved in the sex determination pathway and needed for normal development of males and females. A construct was developed that prevents females developing normally and results in them producing a sharply reduced number of viable eggs. This construct could be driven through the population, and importantly appears to be stable so far it has proven resistant to the rapid evolution of genetic variants that stop the gene drive acting. Importantly, the work shows that there is a very rapid decrease in egg number in population cages such that populations of Anopheles mosquitoes eventually collapse. It remains to be seen if the same phenomenon can be reproduced in large cages designed to represent field populations more closely where there is a greater chance of mutations arising that prevent the gene drive from operating properly. Nevertheless, at least in the short term, the experiments show that it is possible to produce a stable drive to suppress populations of mosquito disease vectors. " "Novel approaches to mosquito control are critical if we are to reduce the burden of mosquito-borne disease. Traditional approaches to controlling mosquitoes, especially the use of insecticides, is becoming less effective as key mosquitoes involved in outbreaks of disease are becoming resistant to our commonly-used insecticides. As malaria is still responsible for killing over half a million people every year and making hundreds of millions of people sick, new technologies are required to battle mosquito-borne disease. While gene drives have shown great potential in the past, laboratory studies have demonstrated that resistance in mosquitoes to these approaches developed in much the same way that theyre beating our commonly-used insecticides. This new research, however, opens new potential applications of this strategy and provides support for researchers to pursue field-based studies. No such resistance to this approach was shown in these newly published laboratory studies. By releasing laboratory-reared, genetically-modified mosquitoes into the field, they can crash the local mosquito populations by reducing the proportion of fertile female mosquitoes. It is a tantalising prospect that collapsing mosquito populations may substantially reduce the transmission of mosquito-borne pathogens. This latest research demonstrates great potential for future management of malaria in many parts of the world, especially Africa. However, adapting this approach to Australian mosquito-borne disease may face many challenges. Australia is free of malaria but thousands of people fall ill following mosquito bites each summer. Unfortunately, there are many different types of mosquito, found in many different types of environments, that drive outbreaks of mosquito-borne disease here. The release of genetically modified mosquitoes is still a long way off but perhaps in the future it will be an additional tool available to local health authorities in reducing the public health risks associated with our local mosquitoes." "CRISPR-based Gene drive technology consists of accelerating the spread of a defect in important genes in insects or mammals to eradicate deadly infectious diseases such as malaria or Zika virus infection or to eradicate animals that have become a pest. While the first attempts using gene drives in malarial mosquitoes showed early signs of success, resistance to the gene drive occurred so rapidly that it compromised any attempts to eradicate malaria or Zika virus infection using CRISPR-based gene drives. The reasons are a poor control of how the gene drive spreads, and previous attempts targeted genes which were too essential for the modified mosquitoes to survive. To overcome this problem of resistance to gene drives, a team in UK targeted a gene essential for sex determination but not for survival called doublesex in mosquitoes, and they better controlled the delivery of the CRISPR gene drives, making it more efficient. As a result, the researchers noted a rapid and efficient spread of the drive and did not observe any resistance to CRISPR gene drives in malarial mosquitoes, achieving the collapse of the entire mosquito population. Overall, this proof of principle study is a significant advance of CRISPR-based gene drive technology, showing some promise on malaria control and eradication. However, prior to this, a more thorough study is required to assess the real efficacy of this CRISPR-based gene drive technology in malarial mosquitoes." Judicial Watch: New Documents Show State Department and USAID Working with Soros Group to Channel Money to 'Mercenary Army' of Far-Left Activists in Albania U.S. Embassy Officials in Albania Shown Working Directly with Soros Operatives to Channel Grant Money into Left-Wing Operations that Attack Traditional, Pro-American Groups, Governments and Policies in Name of 'Civil Society' Contact: Jill Farrell, Judicial Watch, 202-646-5188 WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2018 /Christian Newswire/ -- Judicial Watch today released 49 pages of new documents obtained from the U.S. Department of State about U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) funding for George Soros's left-wing nonprofit organizations in Albania. The documents deal primarily with the activities of Soros' top operative in Albania, Andri Dobrushi, the director of Open Society Foundation-Albania, who was actively engaged in channeling funding to what Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban calls Soros' "mercenary army." The documents show U.S. grant money flowing through non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that profess to promote "civil society," while in fact attacking traditional, pro-American groups, governments and policies. Judicial Watch filed a May 26, 2017, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit against the U.S. Department of State and USAID after they failed to respond to March 31, 2017, FOIA requests (Judicial Watch v. U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development (No. 1:17-cv-01012)). MORE: www.judicialwatch.org/press-room/press-releases/judicial-watch-new-documents-show-state-department-and-usaid-working-with-soros-group-to-channel-money-to-mercenary-army-of-far-left-activists-in-albania/ Share Tweet Opalesque Industry Update - Franklin Templeton Investments announced the appointment of Shane Clifford as senior managing director, Alternative Strategies. In this new role, Clifford will focus on the global growth strategy and business development for Franklin Templeton's Alternatives business. Clifford will report to Mat Gulley, executive vice president, head of Alternatives for Franklin Templeton, and will work closely with K2 Advisors, as an area of focus, as well as with the rest of the Alternatives team. "We are excited to welcome someone of Shane's caliber to the Alternatives management team at Franklin Templeton. He is a proven leader, having developed new and grown existing product and business lines in the alternatives space for global firms-specifically in private equity and infrastructure investing," said Gulley. "Shane will provide valuable insight to Franklin Templeton's Alternatives team, and we very much look forward to leveraging his well-rounded experience to help expand our alternatives offerings." Clifford, who will be based in Stamford, CT, said, "I am excited to have this opportunity to work with Mat and the Alternatives team to help expand existing and develop new offerings for Franklin Templeton. Franklin Templeton has always been at the forefront of innovation, and I am excited to be a part of an organization that is focused on delivering unique investment solutions to its clients." Franklin Templeton's Alternatives capabilities include private equity, hedge, commodities, real estate, infrastructure and venture capital strategies from Darby Overseas Investments, Franklin Real Asset Advisors, Franklin Venture Partners, K2 Advisors, Pelagos Capital Management, Templeton Global Macro and Templeton Private Equity Partners. Clifford has deep experience with nearly 20 years in the industry, including many years in the alternatives business. He most recently served as senior managing director, global head of corporate strategy at EnTrustPermal, where he was a member of the management team working on the combination of Permal and EnTrust and was responsible for transitioning Permal's institutional clients to the new firm. Prior to that, he served as executive vice president and global head of business development at Permal Group, where he sat on a three-person executive committee responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the firm and broadening and executing Permal's global business development strategy. While at Permal, he built and managed a sales team that raised the US institutional assets under management from $300 million to more than $4.5 billion. Additionally, he led the development of new products, including '40-Act registered offerings, private placements, UCITS, a domestic Chinese local joint venture fund as well as its US Private Wealth Custom Solutions business. Previously, Clifford was with BlackRock working in the UK, Middle East and Latin America. Clifford began his career at Merrill Lynch. Clifford received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Limerick in Ireland and an MBA from Boston University Graduate School of Management. Urology Devices Market International Survey by Boston Scientific, Olympus, Coloplast, Cook Medical, C.R. Bard, Endo Health Solutions Inc. etc. till 2027 Urology Devices Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1120 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/check-discount/1120 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/1120 Urology Devices Market report gives expected growth of Top players at CAGR 7.1% during the forecast period of 20182027. On the basis of types: dialysis equipment, urinary stone treatment devices, endoscopy devices & pelvic organ prolapsed devices, and others.Global Urology Devices Market Key PlayersThe key players that are involved in Global Urology Devices market are American Medical Systems (U.S.), Boston Scientific (U.K.), Olympus (U.S.), Coloplast (Denmark), and Cook Medical (U.S.) C.R. Bard (U.S.), Endo Health Solutions Inc. (U.S) and many others.Get sample report @Global Urology Devices Market HighlightsAccording to a recent study published by the Market Research Future analysts, the Global Urology Devices Market is growing at an exponential growth rate; mainly due to rising cases of urological diseases, increasing demand for advance healthcare devices, increasing rate of prostate and bladder cancers, diagnosis of patients with kidney diseases. All these factors are contributing to the growth of the market.Global Urology Devices Market is expected to grow at a CAGR 7.1% during the forecast period 2017-2023.Urinary tract is the one of the vital systems of the body. Urological diseases include, kidney diseases, prostate problems, urinary tract infections, bladder control problems, and others. Different types of urological devices are present in the market and continuous development is being carried out to develop innovative and better instruments for the treatments. The global urology devices market is driven by rapid development in the medical devices, launch of new devices, and rising prevalence of urological diseases. Furthermore, increasing occurrence of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases & obesity, rising geriatric population, and high healthcare expenditure have fueled the market growth. However, poor reimbursement policies, is the major obstacle in the growth of market.Global Urology Devices Market Competitive LandscapeThe Global Urology Devices Market is experiencing extreme competition due to major companies are focusing on the development of the new and advances devices to overcome the disadvantages of the available devices. Some of the leading players have adopted various strategies such as acquisitions and strategic alliances for the growth of the market.KARL STORZ GmbH & Co. KG, headquartered in Germany, founded in 1945, a medical company, produces and distributes medical instruments and devices across the world. The company is the leading market player and is one of the leading manufacturers in the field of industrial endoscopy. C-VIEW, IMAGE1 S, and AUTOCON III 400 are some of the major products of the company.Olympus Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, is a manufacturer of optics and reprography products. In 2015, the company launched five new urology products: GLIDEWIRE, ShockPulse- SE, UltraTrack Hybrid Guidewire, UroPass Access Sheath full portfolio, and 200 Series Laser FiberGet Discount on report @Global Urology Devices Market SegmentsThe Global Urology Devices Market is categorized on the basis of types, applications, technology, end users and region. The market is segmented on the basis of types: dialysis equipment, urinary stone treatment devices, endoscopy devices, benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment devices, urinary incontinence & pelvic organ prolapsed devices, and others.Dialysis equipment is further segmented into peritoneal dialysis, haemodialysis, and others. Urinary stone treatment devices are further segmented into ureteral stents, lithotripsy, and others. Urinary incontinence & pelvic organ prolapsed devices are further segmented into sacral neuromodulator, urethral inserts & pessaries, vaginal meshes & slings, and others. Benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment devices are further segmented into prostatic stents, catheter ablation, and others.On the basis of technology, the market is segmented into minimally invasive surgery, robotic surgery, and others. On the basis of applications, the market is segmented into benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostate cancer, urinary stones, urinary incontinence and others. On the basis of end users, the market is categorized into hospitals, ambulatory services and others.Global Urology Devices Market - Regional AnalysisNorth America is the largest market in the urology devices market with increasing cases of dialysis, and other lifestyle diseases. According to the Urologic Diseases in America (UDA) project, the U.S. population spends approximately $11 billion annually on the treatment and management of urological diseases.Europe is the second largest market and is expected to catch up quickly with North American market in the coming years. The factors such as rising awareness about urology devices, increasing investments in hospital managements, healthcare facilities, medical infrastructure to support the acute as well as chronic urological disease conditions. Increasing government support in R&D and business opportunity generation has greatly impacted the market with emerging nations coming forward capitalizing the opportunities and boosting the growth of the urology device market. Apart from that, the European Association of Urology has undertaken efforts to increase the awareness in Europe about urological diseases among the population achieved through the promotion of prostate cancer screening and initiatives such as Urology Week.To Know More Enquire @Asia Pacific region is a growing market attributed to rising prevalence of lifestyle diseases and government initiatives in establishing innovative technologies and demand for sophisticated medical services. Developing healthcare infrastructure and increasing investment in research and development in countries like India and China are pushing the growth of urology devices market in this region.Middle East & Africa currently contribute least in the global market. However, the scenario is changing and with rising awareness among people and developing healthcare services, these regions are projected to generate good revenues to benefit the global urology devices market.Major Table of ContentChapter 1. Report PrologueChapter 2. Market Introduction2.1 Definition2.2 Scope of the Study2.2.1 Research Objective2.2.2 Assumptions2.2.3 LimitationsChapter 3. Research Methodology3.1 Introduction3.2 Primary Research3.3 Secondary Research3.4 Market Size EstimationChapter 4. Market DynamicsContinued.About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: salesteam@marketresearchfuture.com Global Composite Preforms Market to Reach US$ 350.1 million in 2023 https://www.stratviewresearch.com/toc/96/composite-preforms-market.html https://www.stratviewresearch.com/Request-Sample/96/composite-preforms-market.html https://www.stratviewresearch.com/96/composite-preforms-market.html Global Composite Preforms Market by End-Use Industry Type (Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Consumer Goods, Infrastructure, Medical, Marine, and Others), by Fiber Type (Glass Fiber, Carbon Fiber, and Others), by Product Type (Braiding, Weaving, Stitching, and Knitting), by Structure Type (One-D, Two-D, and Three-D), and by Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World), Trend, Forecast, Competitive Analysis, and Growth Opportunity: 2018-2023This report, from Stratview Research, studies the global composite preforms market over the trend period of 2012 to 2017 and the forecast period of 2018 to 2023. The report provides detailed insights on the market dynamics to enable informed business decision making and growth strategy formulation based on the opportunities present in the market.Click here to read the detailed description and TOC:The Global Composite Preforms Market: HighlightsThe global composite preforms market offers a healthy growth opportunity over the next five years and will reach an estimated value of US$ 350.1 million in 2023. Increasing usage of composite materials in the aerospace and automotive industries, advancements in the preform technology, its ability to develop complex parts, excellent product strength, and shortened cycle time are some of the major factors that are proliferating the growth of the composite preforms in various end-use industries.The global composite preforms market is segmented based on the end-use industry type as Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Consumer Goods, Infrastructure, Medical, Marine, and Others. Aerospace & defense is expected to remain the most dominant segment of the composite preforms market during the forecast period, driven by an increased usage of preforms in turbofan engines of commercial aircraft. The material type is likely to gain more acceptance in the industry over the next five years.The automotive segment is likely to witness the highest growth during the forecast period, driven by an increasing penetration of composites into the structural sections of vehicles coupled with a greater demand for composite preforms to shorten part cycle time. Composite preform can be used to fabricate high-performance composite parts for the automotive industry, but most of the automakers have disowned it, owing to automakers perception regarding its high cost and their change-averse culture.Request sample here:Over the last ten years, governments of many countries have imposed stringent regulations on the automotive industry by setting up targets related to vehicles fuel efficiency and carbon emission, which compelled auto OEMs to look for the best alternatives for achieving those targets. Composite preform is one of the best options for achieving those targets. Currently, many OEMs are heavily betting on composite preforms technology through High-Pressure Resin Transfer Molding (HP-RTM) process in structural applications of their mass-produced vehicles.Composite Preforms Market by End-Use IndustryNorth America is expected to remain the dominant market for composite preforms during the forecast period, driven by the presence of major preform suppliers, composite part fabricators, aero-engine manufacturers, and OEMs. Europe is projected to witness the highest growth during the forecast period, driven by an expected increase in the production rates of A350XWB and A320 aircraft programs.The supply chain of this market comprises raw material manufacturers, composite preform manufacturers, part fabricators, aero-engine manufacturers, and OEMs. The key aerospace OEMs are Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, Embraer, and Bombardier, whereas the key aero-engine manufacturers are CFM, GE Aviation, and Pratt & Whitney, and the key automotive OEMs are BMW, GM, Toyota, and Ford Motors.The key composite preform manufactures are A&P Technology, SGL Kumpers GmbH, Sigmatex (UK) Ltd., Bally Ribbon Mills, Saertex GmbH & Co. KG, Highland Composites, Fabric Development Inc. and Compsys Inc. New product development, regional expansion, and joint product development with customers are the key strategies adopted by some of the major players to gain a competitive edge in the market.Report FeaturesThis report provides market intelligence in the most comprehensive way. The report structure has been kept such that it offers maximum business value. It provides critical insights into the market dynamics and will enable strategic decision making for the existing market players as well as those willing to enter the market. The following are the key features of the report:Market structure: Overview, industry life cycle analysis, supply chain analysisMarket environment analysis: Growth drivers and constraints, Porters five forces analysis, SWOT analysisMarket trend and forecast analysisMarket segment trend and forecastCompetitive landscape and dynamics: Market share, product portfolio, product launches, etc.Attractive market segments and associated growth opportunitiesEmerging trendsStrategic growth opportunities for the existing and new playersKey success factorsThe global composite preforms market is segmented into the following categories.Global Composite Preforms Market by End-Use Industry Type: Aerospace and Defense (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Automotive (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Consumer Goods (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Infrastructure (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Medical (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Marine (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Others (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW)Global Composite Preforms Market by Fiber Type: Glass Fiber preforms (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Carbon Fiber Preforms (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Other Fiber Preforms (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW)Global Composite Preforms Market by Product Type: Braiding (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Weaving (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Stitching (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Knitting (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW)Global Composite Preforms Market by Structure Type: One-Dimensional Preforms (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Two-Dimensional Preforms (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW) Three-Dimensional Preforms (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW)Global Composite Preforms Market by Region North America (Country Analysis: the USA, Canada, and Mexico) Europe (Country Analysis: Germany, France, the UK, Russia, and Rest of Europe) Asia-Pacific (Country Analysis: China, Japan, India, South Korea, and Rest of Asia-Pacific) Rest of the World (Country Analysis: Brazil, Argentina, and Others)About Stratview ResearchStratview Research is a global market intelligence firm providing wide range of services including syndicated market reports, custom research and sourcing intelligence across industries, such as Advanced Materials, Aerospace & Defense, Automotive & Mass Transportation, Consumer Goods, Construction & Equipment, Electronics and Semiconductors, Energy & Utility, Healthcare & Life Sciences, and Oil & Gas.We have a strong team of industry veterans and analysts with an extensive experience in executing custom research projects for mid-sized to Fortune 500 companies, in the areas of Market Assessment, Opportunity Screening, Competitive Intelligence, Due Diligence, Target Screening, Market Entry Strategy, Go to Market Strategy, and Voice of Customer studies.Stratview Research is a trusted brand globally, providing high quality research and strategic insights that help companies worldwide in effective decision making.Category : Advanced & MaterialStratview Research is a global market intelligence firm providing wide range of services including syndicated market reports, custom research and sourcing intelligence across industries, such as Advanced Materials, Aerospace & Defense, Automotive & Mass Transportation, Consumer Goods, Construction & Equipment, Electronics and Semiconductors, Energy & Utility, Healthcare & Life Sciences, and Oil & Gas.Stratview ResearchCrystal Tower, Raipur - 492001Phone No. +1-313-307-4176Email :- sales@stratviewresearch.com Anemia Drugs Market Worldwide Grow at CAGR of 8.4% to Reach USD 34.7 Billion with Top Venders Amgen, GlaxoSmithKline, Bayer, Acceleron Parma and More Anemia Drugs Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2499 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/anemia-drugs-market-2499 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/check-discount/2499 Market Research Future Present the Premium Report Global Anemia Drugs Market Research Report - Forecast to 2022 To Track and Analyze Competitive Developments such as Joint Ventures, Strategic Alliances, Mergers and Acquisitions, New Product Developments, and Research and Developments Globally.Global Anemia Drugs Market - SegmentsGlobal anemia drugs market has been segmented on the basis of anemia type which comprises iron deficiency anemia, sickle cell anemia, aplastic anemia, hemolytic anemia pernicious anemia and others.On the basis of route of administration; market is segmented into oral and injectable. On the basis of gender; market is segmented into male and female.On the basis of product type; market is segmented into biologics and non-biologics. On the basis of end users; market is segmented into hospitals, self-administered and others.Request Sample Report @Global Anemia Drugs Market - Market ScenarioAnemia is a set of conditions characterized by weakness, shortness of breath and a general tiredness due to a decrease in the total amount of red blood cells (RBCs) or hemoglobin in the blood. The lowered hemoglobin results in a lowered ability of the blood to carry oxygen.The market constraints are poor absorption of drugs especially intravenous iron and the side effects associated with the treatment. Better nutrition due to rising per capita income is also a market limiting factor for anemic drugs.The global market for Anemia Drugs is expected to be around US$21.4 billion and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.4% to reach US$34.7 billion by the end of forecast period.Global Anemia Drugs Market - Key PlayersSome of the key players in this market are: Amgen Inc., GlaxoSmithKline plc, Bluebird bio, Biocon, GlycoMimetics Inc., Regen biopharma Inc., Bayer AG, Acceleron Pharma, Eli Lilly and company and others.Global Anemia Drugs Market - Competitive AnalysisIn April-2017, Amgen Inc. expanded their commercial collaboration with Novartis for erenumab, which is being investigated for the prevention of migraine. This expanded commercial collaboration was built on a global neuroscience collaboration in Alzheimer's disease and migraine established in 2015 between Novartis and Amgen. This expanded collaboration leveraged Novartis' strong and established presence in neuroscience to more effectively reach people with migraine.More Details with Full TOC @In December-2015, GlaxoSmithKline plc. announced that its global HIV business, ViiV Healthcare, has reached two separate agreements with Bristol-Myers Squibb, to acquire its late-stage HIV R&D assets; and to acquire Bristol-Myers Squibbs portfolio of preclinical and discovery stage HIV research assets.In October-2016, Elanco U.S., Inc., a subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company acquired Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc.'s (BIVI) U.S. feline, canine and rabies vaccines portfolio - as well as a fully integrated manufacturing and R&D site - for USD 885 million, including the estimated cost of acquired inventory.Global Anemia Drugs Market - Regional AnalysisOn the regional backgrounds the Americas leads the global market for anemia drugs owing to huge patient population, increasing healthcare expenditures and presence of the developed economies like U.S. and Canada within the region. Following, the same trends Europe is second in the market. The Asia Pacific region is the fastest growing region due to the developing economies like India and China. Middle East and Africa have the least market share, especially due to the presence of poor economies within the African region. Moreover, stringent government policies within the region are restraining the market growth within the region. On the hand, Middle East leads the regional market due to the presence of developed economies like Kuwait, Qatar, and others within the region and rising healthcare expenses.Table Of Contents1 Introduction2 Research Methodology3 Market Dynamics4 Market Factor Analysis5 Global Anemia Drugs Market, By Anemia Type6 Global Anemia Drugs Market, By Route Of Administration7 Global Anemia Drugs Market, By Product Type8 Global Anemia Drugs Market, By End User9 Global Anemia Drugs Market, By Regions10 Company Landscape11 Company Profile12 Others13 AppendixMajor TOC Continued!Get Exclusive Discount @About US:Market Research Future (MRFR), enable customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.Contact Us:Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPhone: +1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Automotive Tire Market is expected to grow $68,965 million in 2025 | CAGR 4.89% Automotive Tire Market https://www.progressivemarkets.com/industry-research/automotive-tire-market https://www.progressivemarkets.com/request-sample/automotive-tire-market The global Automotive Tire Market was valued at $42,712 million in 2014 and is likely to garner $68,965 million in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.89% during the forecast period according to Progressive Markets report, Automotive Tire Market Size, Trend, Share, Opportunity Analysis & Forecast, 2014-2025.Access Full Summary at :The report provides a detailed analysis of the automotive tire market on a global basis. It discusses the key segments, market size and share, offers insights on current trends, explains the market landscape, competitive scenario, and outlines growth opportunities for the future. It also highlights the key players operating in the market. These insights are helpful for market players to gain profitability and investors to gain maximum returns on their investments. The report also helps determine strategies to be implemented to expand international market presence and gain a competitive edge in the overall industry.An executive summary of the global automotive tire market is provided in the study to assist market players, stakeholders, new entrants, and investors assess the overall industry and take necessary steps to achieve growth in the years to come. Key findings outlined in the report assist market players to gain insights on the key winning strategies and identify the prolific investment pockets. Porters Five Forces model is offered in the study to help market players develop business strategies for the future and identify the level of competition in the industry. Bargaining power of suppliers, bargaining power of buyers, the threat of new entrants, the threat from substitutes, and industrial rivalry are the elements used to analyze the model.Download Exclusive Summary of Automotive Tire Market:The market landscape of the global automotive tire market is provided in terms of the drivers and restraints. High demand for vehicles across the world, as well as the intense competition between the market players to produce greatly sustainable, highly durable and affordable tires, are supplementing the growth of the market. Moreover, the technological advancements in the manufacturing of tires are also propelling the growth of the automotive tire industry. On the other hand, the rise in retreading tires market in which tread is replaced by worn out tires may cause the market to slow down. In addition, the price fluctuation of raw materials such as natural rubber and reinforcing materials may impede the growth of the market.The report offers a detailed segmentation of the global automotive tire market based on type, type of vehicle/application, and geography. Based on the type, the market is classified as radial tire and bias tire. The radial tire segment garnered $162,831 million in 2017 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.08% during the forecast period, 2018-2025. By vehicle type/application, the market is divided into passenger car tire, Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) tire, Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) tire, and two-wheelers tire. The passenger car tire segment garnered $82,903 million in 2017 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.08% during the forecast period. The LCV tire segment is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 2.03% during the forecast period. Based on geography, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA. The market study in North America covers the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The market analysis in Europe covers Germany, Poland, Spain, Italy, Russia, UK, France, and other parts of Europe. The analysis in Asia-Pacific covers China, Indonesia, India, South Korea, New Zealand, Japan, Australia, and the rest of Asia-Pacific. The study in LAMEA covers Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, UAE, South Africa, Chile, and others.The study offers a detailed analysis of the key market players active in the global automotive tire industry. A business overview of each player is provided to help investors determine investment feasibility and market players to identify strategies to be adopted for achieving growth. Moreover, financial & business segments and their recent developments are offered in the study. Key market players analyzed in the research include Bridgestone Corporation, Continental AG, Pirelli & C. S.p.A, Michelin, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd., Madras Rubber Factory Limited, The Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd., JK Tyre & Industries Ltd., and CEAT LtdThe company makes use of primary corporate research and secondary inputs from trusted sources to build its own reference base. It maintains consistency in quality as it keeps itself updated with changes in market dynamics and gauging its net effect on global business trends.Mr. Shriram Dighe4th Floor, Unit 12, Marisoft III,West Wing, Marigold IT Park,Kalyani Nagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411014,India: +91 20 66346040Toll Free: + 1-888-906-9222help@progressivemarkets.com Global Composites Market in the Commercial Aircraft Engines Industry - Industry Analysis, Forecast, and Growth Opportunity https://www.stratviewresearch.com/toc/97/composites-market-in-the-commercial-aircraft.html https://www.stratviewresearch.com/Request-Sample/97/composites-market-in-the-commercial-aircraft.html https://www.stratviewresearch.com/97/composites-market-in-the-commercial-aircraft.html Global Composites Market in the Commercial Aircraft Engines Industry by Aircraft Type (Narrow Body, Wide Body, and Very Large Aircraft), by Engine OEM (CFM, GE Aviation, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls Royce, IAE, Engine Alliance, and Others), by Material Type (Glass Composites, Carbon Composites, and Aramid Composites), by Manufacturing Process (Prepreg Layup, RTM, and Others), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World): 2017 2022This report, from Stratview Research, studies the composites opportunity in the global commercial aerospace engine market over the period 2011 to 2022. The report provides detailed insights on the market dynamics to enable informed business decision making and growth strategy formulation based on the opportunities present in the market.Click here to read the detailed description and TOC:The Global Composites Market in the Commercial Aircraft Engines Industry: HighlightsComposites offer many advantages over metals, such as lightweight, superior strength, higher durability, and ability to withstand extreme temperature. The history of composites in the aerospace and defense industry is over five decades old when major applications were limited to control surfaces only.As global airline industry started evolving, the competition among players and the concern regarding saving the environment began rising. To remain competitive in the market, airline companies started demanding those aircraft that offer higher fuel efficiency, lower carbon emission, lower noise, lower maintenance cost, and higher passenger safety.The composites excellent performance over the decades compelled OEMs to leverage its potential to address the airlines demands. Major OEMs started incorporating high amount of composites (upto 50%) in most of the major structural applications like fuselage and wings in next generation aircraft. For instance, Boeing incorporated composites up to 50% of the total structural weight of the aircraft in its next generation aircraft, B787. Composites rich aircraft B787 provides 20% more fuel efficiency, 20% reduction in carbon emission, 30% reduction in maintenance cost and 5% reduction in noise than similar sized aircraft which has high metal content.Request sample here:Aerospace engine OEMs are moving in tandem with the aircraft OEMs and are continuously looking for advanced materials for making engines lighter, durable, and have high fatigue performance. They started innovating by replacing traditional materials with composites in many applications. In the last 10 years, the industry noticed many new composite applications in the engine, such as fan blades and fan case.The composite materials market in commercial aerospace engine industry offers a healthy growth opportunity and is likely to grow at a healthy CAGR during the forecast period of 2017 to 2022. Robust growth in commercial aircraft deliveries and increasing composites penetration in the aircraft engine and nacelles, mainly in fan blade, fan case, thrust reverser, and cowl are the key growth drivers of the composite materials in the global commercial aerospace engine market.Narrow body aircraft is expected to remain growth driver of the composite materials in the commercial aerospace engine market during the forecast period. Carbon composites are likely to experience the fastest growth in the next five years.North America is expected to remain the largest market for composite materials in commercial aerospace engine being the manufacturing base of major engine OEMs and commercial aircraft OEMs.The supply chain of this market comprises raw material manufacturers, composites component manufacturers, engine OEMs, Aircraft OEMs, and Airlines. The key aerospace engine OEMs are CFM, GE Aviation Engines, Rolls Royce, Pratt & Whitney, and IAE. Commercial Aircraft OEMs are Boeing, Airbus, COMAC, and Irkut.The composite products are produced by independent manufacturers as well as engine OEMs. Many engine manufacturers have in-house composites manufacturing capacity, such as GE Aircraft Engines, which has facilities in the US. The key composite part manufactures in commercial aerospace engine market are Albany Engineered Composites, FACC AG, Aircelle, and GKN Aerospace. New product development, regional expansion, and long term contacts are the key strategies adopted by key players to gain competitive edge in the market.Report FeaturesThis report provides market intelligence in the most comprehensive way. The report structure has been kept such that it offers maximum business value. It provides critical insights on the market dynamics and will enable strategic decision making for the existing market players as well as those willing to enter the market. The following are the key features of the report:Market structure: Overview, industry life cycle analysis, supply chain analysisMarket environment analysis: Growth drivers and constraints, Porters five forces analysis, SWOT analysisMarket trend and forecast analysisMarket segment trend and forecastCompetitive landscape and dynamics: Market share, product portfolio, product launches, etc.Attractive market segments and associated growth opportunitiesEmerging trendsStrategic growth opportunities for the existing and new playersKey success factorsThe composites in commercial aerospace engine market is segmented into the following categories.Global Composites Market in Commercial Aerospace Engine Industry by Aircraft Type: Narrow Body Aircraft Wide Body Aircraft Very Large AircraftGlobal Composites Market in Commercial Aerospace Engine Industry by Engine OEM: CFM (JV of GE and SNECMA) GE Aviation Pratt & Whitney Rolls Royce IAE (International Aero Engines) Engine Alliance OthersGlobal Composites Market in Commercial Aerospace Engine Industry by Fiber Type Glass Fiber Composites Carbon Fiber Composites Aramid Fiber CompositesGlobal Composites Market in Commercial Aerospace Engine Industry by Process Prepreg layup Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) OthersGlobal Composites Market in Commercial Aerospace Engine Industry by Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Rest of the WorldAbout Stratview ResearchStratview Research is a global market intelligence firm providing wide range of services including syndicated market reports, custom research and sourcing intelligence across industries, such as Advanced Materials, Aerospace & Defense, Automotive & Mass Transportation, Consumer Goods, Construction & Equipment, Electronics and Semiconductors, Energy & Utility, Healthcare & Life Sciences, and Oil & Gas.We have a strong team of industry veterans and analysts with an extensive experience in executing custom research projects for mid-sized to Fortune 500 companies, in the areas of Market Assessment, Opportunity Screening, Competitive Intelligence, Due Diligence, Target Screening, Market Entry Strategy, Go to Market Strategy, and Voice of Customer studies.Stratview Research is a trusted brand globally, providing high quality research and strategic insights that help companies worldwide in effective decision making.Category : Advanced & MaterialStratview Research is a global market intelligence firm providing wide range of services including syndicated market reports, custom research and sourcing intelligence across industries, such as Advanced Materials, Aerospace & Defense, Automotive & Mass Transportation, Consumer Goods, Construction & Equipment, Electronics and Semiconductors, Energy & Utility, Healthcare & Life Sciences, and Oil & Gas.Stratview ResearchCrystal Tower, Raipur - 492001Phone No. +1-313-307-4176Email :- sales@stratviewresearch.com 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Market 2018 Set to Witness Growth by 2025 | Key Companies Analysis (Huawei, Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung, Nortel, LG, Juniper, Cisco, Fujitsu, Qualcomm, CommScope, HUBER+SUHNER, Corning etc.) 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Market https://www.orianresearch.com/request-sample/527739 https://www.orianresearch.com/enquiry-before-buying/527739 https://www.orianresearch.com/checkout/527739 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Market Research Report study on market strategy, investment plan, industry share, growth factors, industry policy, revenue, opportunity, demand and 2025-2018 forecast. The research report also provides information about industry growth, development history, competitive analysis, growth factors, and historical data with experts opinions.Get Sample Copy atThe wireless network infrastructure market is currently in a phase of transition as mobile operators seek to address increasing mobile traffic demands amidst global economic uncertainties. This paradigm shift is bringing new challenges and opportunities to infrastructure vendors.Development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures. This report also states import/export, supply and consumption figures as well as cost, price, revenue and gross margin by regions North America, Europe, Japan, China, and other regions (India, Southeast Asia, Central & South America, Middle East & Africa etc.)Inquire more or share questions if any before the purchase on this report @Market segment by Type, the product can be split into2G/3G4G5GKey Companies Analyzed in this Report are: Huawei Ericsson Nokia (ALU+MOTO) ZTE Samsung Nortel LG Juniper Market segment by Application, 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure can be split intoMilitary UseCivil UseGlobal 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Market report has been compiled through extensive primary research (through analytical research, market survey and observations) and secondary research. The report also features a complete focused on qualitative and quantitative assessment by analyzing data gathered from industry analysts and market participants across key points in the industrys value chain, growth aspects, utilization ratio and manufacturing capacity.Place a Direct Order Of this Report @Major Points Covered in Table of Contents:1 Industry Overview of 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure2 Global 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Competition Analysis by Players3 Company (Top Players) Profiles4 Global 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Market Size by Type and Application (2013-2018)5 United States 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Development Status and Outlook6 EU 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Development Status and Outlook7 Japan 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Development Status and Outlook8 China 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Development Status and Outlook9 India 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Development Status and Outlook10 Southeast Asia 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Development Status and Outlook11 Market Forecast by Regions, Type and Application (2018-2025)12 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G Wireless Network Infrastructure Market Dynamics13 Market Effect Factors Analysis14 Research Finding/Conclusion15 AppendixIf you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.About UsOrian Research is one of the most comprehensive collections of market intelligence reports on The World Wide Web. Our reports repository boasts of over 500000+ industry and country research reports from over 100 top publishers. We continuously update our repository so as to provide our clients easy access to the world's most complete and current database of expert insights on global industries, companies, and products. We also specialize in custom research in situations where our syndicate research offerings do not meet the specific requirements of our esteemed clients.Contact UsRuwin MendezVice President Global Sales & Partner RelationsOrian Research ConsultantsUS: +1 (415) 830-3727 | UK: +44 020 8144-71-27Email: info@orianresearch.com Organic Polysulfide Market Top Key Players Toray Fine Chemicals Co., Ltd (Japan), PPG Industries, Inc. (U.S), Flamemaster Corporation (U.S.), BASF and Others Organic Polysulfide Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/4158 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/organic-polysulfide-market-4158 Polysulfide is a chemical compound containing chains of sulfur atoms. There are two main classes of polysulfide namely anionic polysulfide and organic polysulfide. Organic Polysulfide primarily contains an alkyl or aryl group. Organic Polysulfide exhibit properties such as high flexibility, tensile strength, greater impermeability, chemical and weather resistance, and high dielectric strength. There are various end use industries in which polysulfide successfully penetrated is building & construction, automotive, marine & piping, aerospace, and others. The use of polysulfide in construction industry can be seen in sealing, coating, and adhesion of construction materials.Get Sample copy atGlobal Top 10 Key Players:Key players in the Global Organic Polysulfide Market are Kazan Synthetic Rubber Plant (Russia), Toray Fine Chemicals Co., Ltd (Japan), PPG Industries, Inc. (U.S), Flamemaster Corporation (U.S.), BASF (Germany).Intended Audience:Organic polysulfide manufacturersTraders and distributors of organic polysulfideResearch and development institutePotential investorsRaw material suppliersNational laboratoryApart from this, both automotive and aerospace industries are using Polysulfide as adhesives, coatings and polymers for the lightweight parts. In addition to this, the applications of Organic Polysulfide can be found in marine & piping. Apart from that in chemical industries, organic polysulfide is used as an elastomer for many commercial chemical reactions.The consumption of Organic Polysulfide is increasing due to the growing applications in construction and automobile industry. There is increasing demand of highly durable rubber in diverse industrial as well as household applications, this can propel the growth in demand of Organic Polysulfide for vulcanization of natural rubber. The unique characteristic features such as high impermeability, greater sealing ability and resistance add into the demand of Organic Polysulfide over its counterparts. Countries namely India, China, U.S., U.K., and Japan are heavily investing in ship building and port development, which may fuel demand of organic polysulfide on accounts of the greater resistance to chemical reaction and salt water offered by Organic Polysulfide. Moreover, Organic Polysulfide are easily biodegradable and recyclable, which nullify the environmental concern and make it more preferable over the other polymers. However, the sluggish growth of the markets in Latin America owing to the stagnation in many sectors of economy and political instability to impede the market in Latin America. North America is also predicted to witness relatively slow growth of the regional Organic Polysulfide Market due to the ongoing research in bid to find greener products. Nevertheless, the growing marine and aerospace activities is posing as an opportunity, which may push the growth of the Global Organic Polysulfide Market. Collectively, it has been estimated that the global organic polysulfide market would grow at CAGR of 5% throughout the forecast period.Regional Analysis:The major regions in the Global Organic Polysulfide Market are Asia Pacific, Europe, and North America. Other regions include Latin America and Middle East & Africa. Among these five key regions Asia Pacific is the fastest growing market in the Global Organic Polysulfide Market. Countries namely, India, China, Japan, and Malaysia are an important markets in this region. The growth of market in this region in attributed to the growing building & construction activities. Apart from that the automotive and aerospace industries in this region are on the rise due to an increasing demand of cars & bikes from large proportion of middle class people in this region. Europe is estimated to hold second largest share of the Global Organic Polysulfide Market. Western European countries namely U.K., Germany, France, Netherlands, and Switzerland are the major markets in this region. The continuous innovation in aerospace and marine sector is responsible the growth in demand of organic polysulfide in this region.Access complete Report atApart from this, there is a greater demand of Organic Polysulfide as sealants in construction for prevention from cold. North America is a significant region in the Global Organic Polysulfide Market. U.S., and Canada are holding major share of the regional market owing to the growing aerospace industry. In addition to this the reconstruction activity in U.S. is driving the demand of organic polysulfide market. Other regions in the Global Organic Polysulfide Market are Latin America and Middle East & Africa. The political unrest and stagnant economic growth resulted in sluggish growth of regional market. However, during the forecast period Lain America may emerge as a significant region owing to the evolving end use industries in this region. Middle East & Africa is anticipated to join the leading regions, during the forecast period due to the ease in availability of raw material and ongoing infrastructural developments in the region.Segmentation:The Global Organic Polysulfide Market is segmented on the basis of applications, end use industry, and region. On the basis of applications the market is divided into adhesives, sealants, coating, elastomer, vulcanization, and others, wherein Organic Polysulfide is majorly used as an important raw material in adhesives and sealants production. Based on end use industries the global organic polysulfide market is segmented into building & construction, automotive, marine & piping, aerospace, chemicals and others. Among them, organic polysulfide has maximum penetration in the building & construction industry. Geographically, the market is segmented into five key region, including Asia Pacific, Europe, North America, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region among them on account of the growing construction activities.At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services. MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by Components, Application, Logistics and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.Office No. 524/528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar, Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India Global Graphite Materials Market - Industry Analysis, Forecast, and Growth Opportunity https://www.stratviewresearch.com/toc/152/graphite-materials-market.html https://www.stratviewresearch.com/Request-Sample/152/graphite-materials-market.html https://www.stratviewresearch.com/152/graphite-materials-market.html Global Graphite Materials Market by Form (Electrode, Block, Powder, Carbon Fiber, Flake, Amorphous, and Vein and Others), by Application Type (Electrode, Refractory, Lubricants, Foundry, Battery, Frictional Products, Parts & Components, and Others), by End Use Industry (Metal, Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Photovoltaic, Electricals & Electronics, Industrial, and Others), by Sales Channel (Direct Sales and Distributors), and by Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World), Trend, Forecast, Competitive Analysis, and Growth Opportunity: 2016-2021This report, from Stratview Research, studies the global graphite market over the period 2010 to 2021. The report provides detailed insights on the market dynamics to enable informed business decision making and growth strategy formulation based on the opportunities present in the market.Click here to read the detailed description and TOC:The Global Graphite Market: HighlightsGraphite has two principal types: Synthetic Graphite and Natural Graphite. They have their own set of applications and generally do not compete with each other. They have no relationship with each other except the name graphite.Synthetic graphite is a man-made substance manufactured by high temperature treatment (2,500 to 3,000 degree Celsius) of amorphous carbon materials. Synthetic graphite has four types; electrode, block, powder, and fiber. The largest type of the synthetic graphite is graphite electrode that is predominately used in producing electric arc furnaces for melting steel & iron and producing alloys.Synthetic graphite blocks are produced from isostatic, extruded, die molded, and vibration molded process. Synthetic blocks are used in a large variety of applications ranging from polysilicon production for photovoltaic industry to high temperature reactors in nuclear industry. Most of the leading companies are heavily investing in China to meet the local demand. Despite significant capacity expansion by local as well as international players in the last ten years, some portion of synthetic graphite demand is met through import.Carbon fiber offers high specific strength, light weighting, good fatigue strength, and excellent corrosion resistance than the competing materials, which makes it a preferred material in the high performance applications. High focus on fuel efficiency, low carbon emission, weight reduction, comfort and passenger safety, and government regulations, such as CAFE standards are driving the increasing penetration of carbon composite structures in aerospace & defense, automotive, and wind energy segments. Carbon fiber is likely to experience double digit growth in the next five years.Request sample here:The second type, natural graphite, is a form of carbon where atoms are arranged in the layers that have weak bonds between each other. It is subdivided into three types: Amorphous, Flake, and Vein. Natural graphite production is mainly from small underground mines in China. China is the world's largest producer of natural graphite for both amorphous and flake graphite, and accounts for more than 65% of total global natural graphite production. Approximately 70% of Chinese production is amorphous graphite while 30% is natural flake. The majority of Chinese graphite mines are small and many are seasonal. Other countries with good natural graphite production include Brazil, North Korea, Canada, India, Romania, Ukraine, Mexico, Madagascar, Austria, Turkey, and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is the only country that produces high quality vein graphite.Currently, refractory is the largest application of natural graphite. However, it has continuously lost market share during 2011 2015 and is expected to lose further in the next five years. The decline is due to the reduced demand of refractories from steel industry and slower economic growth in China.Battery is currently the hot topic in the graphite market. All of the major graphite producers are discussing about the growth potential of graphite in the batteries for the automotive and other industries, such as consumer goods. Battery is an application where both natural and synthetic graphite are used and truly compete with each other. There will be a continuous shift in graphite market away from amorphous natural graphite towards flake and synthetic graphite as emerging applications like batteries typically require large flake and high-purity grades.The graphite market offers a robust growth opportunity during the forecast period of 2016 to 2021. Synthetic graphite market is likely to remain the largest graphite type during the forecast period, driven by demand of electrodes, blocks and carbon fibers. Natural graphite is expected to experience an overall higher growth than synthetic graphite in the next five years.During the forecast period, refractory and electrodes are expected to remain the largest applications for natural graphite and synthetic graphite markets respectively. Battery is expected to experience the fastest growth with double digit growth rate in the next five years.Asia-Pacific is expected to remain the growth engine of the global graphite market. Emerging economies, such as China and India will drive both synthetic as well as natural graphite market over the next five years.The key graphite manufactures are SGL Carbon SE, Tokai Carbon, Toray Industries, Toho Tenax, Mistubishi Rayon, GrafTech International Holdings Inc, South Graphite, Nacional de Grafite, Mersen Group, Graphite India, Nippon Graphite Industries, Asbury Graphite Mills, and Focus Graphite. New product development, regional expansion, and capacity expansion are the key strategies adopted by the key players to gain competitive edge in the market.Report FeaturesThis report provides market intelligence in the most comprehensive way. The report structure has been kept such that it offers maximum business value. It provides critical insights on the market dynamics and will enable strategic decision making for the existing market players as well as those willing to enter the market. The following are the key features of the report:Market structure: Overview, industry life cycle analysis, supply chain analysisMarket environment analysis: Growth drivers and constraints, Porters five forces analysis, SWOT analysisMarket trend and forecast analysisMarket segment trend and forecastCompetitive landscape and dynamics: Market share, product portfolio, product launches, etc.Attractive market segments and associated growth opportunitiesEmerging trendsStrategic growth opportunities for the existing and new playersKey success factorsThe global graphite market is segmented into the following categories:Global Graphite Market by Form: Synthetic Graphite Synthetic Electrode Synthetic Block Synthetic Carbon Fiber Synthetic Powder Natural Graphite Flake Graphite Amorphous Graphite Vein and Others GraphiteGlobal Graphite Market by Applications: Electrode Refractory Lubricants Foundry Battery Frictional Products Parts & Components OthersGlobal Graphite Market by End Use Industry: Metal Industry Aerospace & Defense Automotive Photovoltaic Industry Electrical & Electronic Industrial OthersGlobal Graphite Market by Sales Channel: Direct Sales DistributorsGlobal Graphite Market by Region: North America Europe Asia Pacific Rest of the WorldAbout Stratview ResearchStratview Research is a global market intelligence firm providing wide range of services including syndicated market reports, custom research and sourcing intelligence across industries, such as Advanced Materials, Aerospace & Defense, Automotive & Mass Transportation, Consumer Goods, Construction & Equipment, Electronics and Semiconductors, Energy & Utility, Healthcare & Life Sciences, and Oil & Gas.We have a strong team of industry veterans and analysts with an extensive experience in executing custom research projects for mid-sized to Fortune 500 companies, in the areas of Market Assessment, Opportunity Screening, Competitive Intelligence, Due Diligence, Target Screening, Market Entry Strategy, Go to Market Strategy, and Voice of Customer studies.Stratview Research is a trusted brand globally, providing high quality research and strategic insights that help companies worldwide in effective decision making.Category : Advanced & MaterialStratview Research is a global market intelligence firm providing wide range of services including syndicated market reports, custom research and sourcing intelligence across industries, such as Advanced Materials, Aerospace & Defense, Automotive & Mass Transportation, Consumer Goods, Construction & Equipment, Electronics and Semiconductors, Energy & Utility, Healthcare & Life Sciences, and Oil & Gas.Stratview ResearchCrystal Tower, Raipur - 492001Phone No. +1-313-307-4176Email :- sales@stratviewresearch.com Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Market 2018: Growth Rate, Innovation Factors, Industry Share, Opportunity & Top Players (B Braun, Bard, Cook Medical, Cooper, Ethicon, Insightra, Allergan, Medtronic, Olympus, W L Gore etc.) Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Market https://www.orianresearch.com/request-sample/644568 https://www.orianresearch.com/enquiry-before-buying/644568 https://www.orianresearch.com/checkout/644568 Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Market Research Report study on market strategy, investment plan, industry share, growth factors, industry policy, revenue, opportunity, demand and 2025-2018 forecast. The research report also provides information about industry growth, development history, competitive analysis, growth factors, and historical data with experts opinions.Get Sample Copy atWith the world's population increasing and everyone living longer, models of treatment delivery are rapidly changing, and data are driving many of the decisions behind those changes. The drive now is to understand as much about a patient as possible, as early in their life as possible hopefully picking up warning signs of serious illness at an early enough stage that treatment is far simpler (and less expensive) than if it had not been spotted until later. Other factors such as the need for comprehensive analytics will also help to boost the healthcare descriptive analytics market.Analytics has had a significant impact on healthcare business, and both predictive and descriptive analytics have had their impacts on the industry.Market segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaCentral & South AmericaInquire more or share questions if any before the purchase on this report @Key Companies Analyzed in this Report are: B Braun Bard Cook Medical Cooper Surgical Ethicon Insightra Medical Allergan Medtronic Olympus W L Gore Global Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Market report has been compiled through extensive primary research (through analytical research, market survey and observations) and secondary research. The report also features a complete focused on qualitative and quantitative assessment by analyzing data gathered from industry analysts and market participants across key points in the industrys value chain, growth aspects, utilization ratio and manufacturing capacity.Market segment by Type, the product can be split intoOn-PremiseWeb-basedCloud basedMarket segment by Application, split intoClinical Data AnalyticsFinancial Data AnalyticsAdministrative Data AnalyticsResearch Data AnalyticsPlace a Direct Order Of this Report @Major Points Covered in Table of Contents:1 Industry Overview of Healthcare Descriptive Analysis2 Global Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Competition Analysis by Players3 Company (Top Players) Profiles4 Global Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Market Size by Type and Application (2013-2018)5 United States Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Development Status and Outlook6 EU Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Development Status and Outlook7 Japan Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Development Status and Outlook8 China Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Development Status and Outlook9 India Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Development Status and Outlook10 Southeast Asia Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Development Status and Outlook11 Market Forecast by Regions, Type and Application (2018-2025)12 Healthcare Descriptive Analysis Market Dynamics13 Market Effect Factors Analysis14 Research Finding/Conclusion15 AppendixIn this study, the years considered to estimate the market size of Healthcare Descriptive Analysis are as follows:History Year: 2013-2017Base Year: 2017Estimated Year: 2018Forecast Year 2018 to 2025For the data information by region, company, type and application, 2017 is considered as the base year. Whenever data information was unavailable for the base year, the prior year has been considered.About UsOrian Research is one of the most comprehensive collections of market intelligence reports on The World Wide Web. Our reports repository boasts of over 500000+ industry and country research reports from over 100 top publishers. We continuously update our repository so as to provide our clients easy access to the world's most complete and current database of expert insights on global industries, companies, and products. We also specialize in custom research in situations where our syndicate research offerings do not meet the specific requirements of our esteemed clients.Contact UsRuwin MendezVice President Global Sales & Partner RelationsOrian Research ConsultantsUS: +1 (415) 830-3727 | UK: +44 020 8144-71-27Email: info@orianresearch.com Digital Pathology Market to Grow at a CAGR of 12.5% till 2025 | Key Player Insights: Apollo Enterprise Imaging Corp., Huron Digital Pathology, Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. The Insight Partners http://bit.ly/2xUCwEu http://bit.ly/2xWQ0iJ New Intelligence Report on Digital Pathology Market to 2025 is recently published by The Insight Partners. The report aims to provide leading industry players with information such as company profiles, products and services offered, financial information of last 3 yesars, key development in past five yearsDigital Pathology Market to 2025Advancement in the equipment, teleconsultation & ease of transportation, rising prevalence of cancer, and increasing number of conferences & meetings to create awareness are the major factors primarily attributed to the growth of the market. Additionally, major players in this market are involved in research and development activities. These players have been upgrading their product portfolio by applying for approvals as well as launching new products. For instance, in July 2017, The 3D Histech launched the windows 10 compatible TMA control 2.7 SW, which can be applied for the complete tissue microarray (TMA) products. This update was aimed to aid in placing different samples into one paraffin block. In addition, it was also designed to save time & costs of tissue preparation, staining and slide preparation.The digital pathology market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 12.5% during the forecast period from 2018 to 2025. The market for digital pathology is projected to reach US$ 992.14 Mn in 2025.Get Sample Pages atDigital pathology is an image-based information environment that aids in the management of information generated from a digital slide. A digital slide image file is then generated which enables the user for high resolution viewing, interpretation and image analysis of digital pathology slides. The digital slides can be shared within the laboratory or to the other laboratory by the integration of the internet. It helps the physician and patients to take another opinion about the diagnosis.In our study, we have segmented the digital pathology market by product, application and end user. Based on product, the market is segmented as storage systems, communication systems, software and scanners. Based on application, the market is segmented into teleconsultation /telepathology, disease diagnosis, drug discovery and training and education. On the basis of end user, the market is categorized as academic & research institutes, pharmaceutical & biotechnological companies and hospital laboratories. Geographically, the market for digital pathology is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), Middle East and Africa (MEA) and South and Central America (S&CAM).Companies Influencing the Digital Pathology Market3DHISTECH Ltd.2. Apollo Enterprise Imaging Corp.3. Huron Digital Pathology4. Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH5. Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.6. XIFIN, Inc.7. Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.8. Koninklijke Philips N.V.9. Visiopharm10. Indica Labs, Inc.The market for digital pathology is well established in North American region, especially in the US and Canada. The market is expected to witness growth at a significant rate in Asia Pacific (APAC) region during the forecast period. The initiations and support by the government in China, growing cancer cases, focus by industry players in Japan, and developing healthcare infrastructure in India are likely to enhance the growth of the market during the forecast period. Thus, there is a vast potential for the digital pathology market to witness rapid growth in the coming years.Buy this Report Now atThe Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services.Call: +1-646-491-9876Email: sales@theinsightpartners.com Neo and Challenger Bank Market 2018: Growth Rate, Innovation Factors, Industry Share, Opportunity & Top Players (Atom Bank, Movencorp, BPCE, N26, Pockit, Ubank, Monzo Bank, MyBank, Holvi Bank, WeBank, Hello Bank etc.) Neo and Challenger Bank Market https://www.orianresearch.com/request-sample/609532 https://www.orianresearch.com/enquiry-before-buying/609532 https://www.orianresearch.com/checkout/609532 The emerging trend of neo and challenger banks offering their banking services through digital channels (online or mobile app banking) in Europe and U.S. is expected to boost the market growth. Digital challenger banks are simplifying the financial world, creating a customer centric approach to services, and transforming the way banking is viewed by the public and the market.Get Sample Copy atIn return, they endeavor to deliver larger returns on equity as compared to those offered by prominent traditional banks. They strive to offer greater flexibility when it comes to lending through streamlined operations and costs.Owing to favorable regulations, higher fintech adoption index, and rise in investments in these countries. The U.S. is expected to be the market leader during the forecast period. China and the UK are expected to witness higher growth rates on account of relaxations in regulatory requirements, high penetration of internet and smartphones, and large untapped consumer base in these countries. Recent approvals of MYBank and WeBank by the Chinese authorities have provided opportunities to digital-only banks to expand their presence in China.Inquire more or share questions if any before the purchase on this report @Key Companies Analyzed in this Report are: Atom Bank Movencorp Simple Finance Technology BPCE N26 Pockit Ubank Monzo Bank MyBank (Alibaba Group) Holvi Bank Digital challenger banks are simplifying the financial world, creating a customer-centric approach to services, and transforming the way banking is viewed by the public and the market. In return, they endeavor to deliver larger returns on equity as compared to those offered by prominent traditional banks. They strive to offer greater flexibility when it comes to lending through streamlined operations and costs.Market segment by Type, the product can be split intoNeo BankChallenger BankMarket segment by Application, split intoPersonalBusinessPlace a Direct Order Of this Report @Major Points Covered in Table of Contents:1 Industry Overview of Neo and Challenger Bank2 Global Neo and Challenger Bank Competition Analysis by Players3 Company (Top Players) Profiles4 Global Neo and Challenger Bank Market Size by Type and Application (2013-2018)5 United States Neo and Challenger Bank Development Status and Outlook6 EU Neo and Challenger Bank Development Status and Outlook7 Japan Neo and Challenger Bank Development Status and Outlook8 China Neo and Challenger Bank Development Status and Outlook9 India Neo and Challenger Bank Development Status and Outlook10 Southeast Asia Neo and Challenger Bank Development Status and Outlook11 Market Forecast by Regions, Type and Application (2018-2025)12 Neo and Challenger Bank Market Dynamics13 Market Effect Factors Analysis14 Research Finding/Conclusion15 AppendixIn this study, the years considered to estimate the market size of Neo and Challenger Bank are as follows:History Year: 2013-2017Base Year: 2017Estimated Year: 2018Forecast Year 2018 to 2025About UsOrian Research is one of the most comprehensive collections of market intelligence reports on The World Wide Web. Our reports repository boasts of over 500000+ industry and country research reports from over 100 top publishers. We continuously update our repository so as to provide our clients easy access to the world's most complete and current database of expert insights on global industries, companies, and products. We also specialize in custom research in situations where our syndicate research offerings do not meet the specific requirements of our esteemed clients.Contact UsRuwin MendezVice President Global Sales & Partner RelationsOrian Research ConsultantsUS: +1 (415) 830-3727 | UK: +44 020 8144-71-27Email: info@orianresearch.com Non-Dairy Ice Cream Market Absolute Analysis by leading Players - General Mills, Unilever, Talenti, Booja Booja, Danone, Tofutti Brands, Bliss Unlimited LLC, Swedish Glace, and NadaMoo Non-Dairy Ice Cream Market https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/1786 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/non-dairy-ice-cream-market https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/1786 https://www.gminsights.com http://algosonline.com/news Non-Dairy Ice Cream Market is estimated to surpass USD 1 billion by 2024; according to a new research report by Global Market Insights, Inc.Growing vegan population along with inclination towards healthy lifestyles are among key factors propelling the non-dairy ice cream market growth. Increasing consumer spending on desserts, confectionery and other functional food items will support the industry demand. Rising awareness regarding lactose intolerance will further fuel the business development.Shifting consumer preference towards innovative products and flavors due to changing social trends will drive the non-dairy ice cream market size. Technological advancements in machineries and product innovations using avocado and hemp milk will augment the product adoption. Increasing raw material availability along with convenient production process are among major factors supporting the industry growth.Request Sample Copy of this Report @Coconut milk accounted for over 30% of the global non-dairy ice cream market share in 2017. Significant health benefits, ease in production along with texture compatibility are among key factors driving the product demand. Rising count of brands offering coconut-based products has enhanced the industry demand. However, almond milk is expected to witness higher CAGR owing to changing taste preferences and increasing number of product launches.Rising penetration of renowned brands in non-dairy ice cream segment to gain competitive advantage will propel the industry demand. Innovative fruit-based flavor offerings through new product launches to improve consumer base are among key trends among manufacturers. Expanding distribution networks coupled with attractive packaging will boost the product penetration during the forecast timeframe. However, changing raw material costs along with relatively high product prices may hinder the industry growth.Browse key industry insights spread across 300 pages with 373 market data tables & 13 figures & charts from the report, Non-Dairy Ice Cream Market Size By Source (Coconut Milk, Almond Milk, Cashew Milk, Soy Milk), By Flavor (Vanilla, Chocolate, Butter Pecan, Strawberry, Neapolitan, Cookies & Cream, Mint Choco Chip, Caramel), By Product (Impulse, Artisanal, Take Home), By Form (Singles, Blends), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets, Convenience Stores, Food & Drink Specialists, Restaurants, Online Stores) Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (U.S., Canada, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Russia, Spain, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, South Africa, UAE, Saudi Arabia), Growth Potential, Price Trend, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2018 2024 in detail along with the table of contents:Chocolate flavor is projected to witness CAGR at over 14.5% from 2018 to 2024. Extensive product offerings with multiple chocolate flavor variants including dark chocolate and chocolate chips is proliferating the non-dairy ice cream market. However, flavor portfolio largely varies on country level, due to changing taste preferences. For instance, lemon-based flavors are highly prevalent in specific European countries.Artisanal products are expected to witness significant growth rate during the forecast timeframe. Growing disposable incomes coupled with increasing number of artisanal franchisees particularly in emerging economies is fueling the segment growth. Whereas take home segment dominates the non-dairy ice cream market due to shifting preference for off-premise consumption. High product availability through supermarkets particularly in developed regions along with penetration of online stores will support the industry growth.Blended flavors are anticipated to register over 20 million liters demand by 2024. Flavor innovations along with rising consumer spending on premium flavors majorly in North America and Europe will supplement the business revenue. Increasing consumer preference for mint choco chip, cookies & cream, neapolitan, and mocha chocolate has stimulated the non-dairy ice cream demand.Supermarkets will register sales at over USD 400 million by 2024. Changing shopping trends along with inclination towards one stop shopping has stimulated the supermarket counts globally. Rising demand for take home products is significant factor supporting the segment share. Multiple brand availability along with competitive costs are among key factors positively influencing the industry demand.Europe non-dairy ice cream market is expected to witness CAGR at over 14% from 2018 to 2024. Higher vegan products demand owing to rising health consciousness and growing vegan population are primary factors driving the regional industry growth. Large number of products launches among European as well as global brands mainly including Ben & Jerrys, Swedish Glace, and Booja Booja will support the industry demand.Inquiry before buying @Global non-dairy ice cream market share is highly fragmented with presence of both regional and global companies. Notable players include General Mills, Unilever, Talenti, Booja Booja, Danone, Tofutti Brands, Bliss Unlimited LLC, Swedish Glace, and NadaMoo. Merger & acquisitions along with product innovations are among key strategies adopted by manufacturers. For instance, in April 2017, Danone completed acquisition of WhiteWave Foods, an American packaged food manufacturer to expand its industry share.About Global Market Insights:Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb:Explore Our Blog @ Industry Trends: 4D Printing Market By Key Vendors: Autodesk, Hewlett-Packard, Stratasys 2018-2025 QyResearchReports https://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1910718&type=S https://www.qyresearchreports.com/report/global-4d-printing-market-size-status-and-forecast-2018-2025.htm http://www.qyresearchreports.com Qyresearchreports include new market research report 4D Printing to its huge collection of research reports.The growth trajectory of the global 4D Printing market over the assessment period is shaped by several prevalent and emerging regional and global trends, a granular assessment of which is offered in the report. The study on analyzing the 4D Printing market dynamics takes a critical look at the business regulatory framework, technological advances in associated industries, and the strategic avenues. The study strives to offer incisive insights into the developmental framework on which the growth of the market hinges on. In doing so, the research tries to lay bare key strategic and operational risks underpinning new business models that might cause disruption in the competitive landscape.This report focuses on the global 4D Printing status, future forecast, growth opportunity, key market and key players. The study objectives are to present the 4D Printing development in United States, Europe and China.In 2017, the global 4D Printing market size was million US$ and it is expected to reach million US$ by the end of 2025, with a CAGR of during 2018-2025.The key players covered in this studyAutodeskHewlett-PackardStratasys...For more info, get sample report for FREE here:The study objectives of this report are:To analyze global 4D Printing status, future forecast, growth opportunity, key market and key players.To present the 4D Printing development in United States, Europe and China.To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their development plan and strategies.To define, describe and forecast the market by product type, market and key regions.Table of Contents1 Report Overview1.1 Study Scope1.2 Key Market Segments1.3 Players Covered1.4 Market Analysis by Type1.4.1 Global 4D Printing Market Size Growth Rate by Type (2013-2025)1.4.2 Programmable Carbon Fiber1.4.3 Programmable Wood - Custom Printed Wood Grain1.4.4 Programmable Textiles1.5 Market by Application1.5.1 Global 4D Printing Market Share by Application (2013-2025)1.5.2 Military & Defense1.5.3 Aerospace1.5.4 Automotive1.5.5 Textile1.5.6 Healthcare1.5.7 Others2 Global Growth Trends2.1 4D Printing Market Size2.2 4D Printing Growth Trends by Regions2.2.1 4D Printing Market Size by Regions (2013-2025)2.2.2 4D Printing Market Share by Regions (2013-2018)2.3 Industry Trends2.3.1 Market Top Trends2.3.2 Market Drivers2.3.3 Market OpportunitiesBrowse Complete Research Report at:3 Market Share by Key Players3.1 4D Printing Market Size by Manufacturers3.1.1 Global 4D Printing Revenue by Manufacturers (2013-2018)3.1.2 Global 4D Printing Revenue Market Share by Manufacturers (2013-2018)3.1.3 Global 4D Printing Market Concentration Ratio (CR5 and HHI)3.2 4D Printing Key Players Head office and Area Served3.3 Key Players 4D Printing Product/Solution/Service3.4 Date of Enter into 4D Printing Market3.5 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion Plans4 Breakdown Data by Type and Application4.1 Global 4D Printing Market Size by Type (2013-2018)4.2 Global 4D Printing Market Size by Application (2013-2018)...List of Tables and FiguresTable 4D Printing Key Market SegmentsTable Key Players 4D Printing CoveredTable Global 4D Printing Market Size Growth Rate by Type 2013-2025 (Million US$)Figure Global 4D Printing Market Size Market Share by Type 2013-2025Figure Programmable Carbon Fiber FiguresTable Key Players of Programmable Carbon FiberFigure Programmable Wood - Custom Printed Wood Grain FiguresTable Key Players of Programmable Wood - Custom Printed Wood GrainFigure Programmable Textiles FiguresTable Key Players of Programmable TextilesTable Global 4D Printing Market Size Growth by Application 2013-2025 (Million US$)Figure Military & Defense Case StudiesFigure Aerospace Case StudiesFigure Automotive Case StudiesFigure Textile Case StudiesFigure Healthcare Case StudiesFigure Others Case Studies...About Us: QYResearchReports delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. Our syndicated and customized research reports provide companies with vital background information of the market and in-depth analysis on the Chinese trade and investment framework, which directly affects their business operations. Reports from QYResearchReports feature valuable recommendations on how to navigate in the extremely unpredictable yet highly attractive Chinese market.Contact Us:Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-618-1030Web:Email: sales@qyresearchreports.com Direct Attached Storage System Market 2018 Industry Trends, Growth, Revenue and Key Players (Lenovo, Aberdeen, Huawei, Contegix, Cisco, Dell, Seagate, Fujitsu, Broadberry, Intel, Curtiss-Wright, Brocade) Forecast 2018-2025 Direct Attached Storage System Market 2018 https://www.orianresearch.com/request-sample/645709 https://www.orianresearch.com/enquiry-before-buying/645709 https://www.orianresearch.com/checkout/645709 www.orianresearch.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company-beta/13281002/ Direct Attached Storage System Market 2018 delivers a comprehensive analyzes of existing market size, recent market trends, key segments and future predictions of the global Direct Attached Storage System market. This report also analysis of price, revenue, gross margin, scope, growth rate, strategies for business provided in this report. Furthermore, the forecast analysis related to global Direct Attached Storage System industry is structured in this report.Get Sample Copy of this Report -The Global Direct Attached Storage System market 2018 research provides a basic overview of the industry including definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure. The Global Direct Attached Storage System market analysis is provided for the international markets including development trends, competitive landscape analysis, and key regions development status. Development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures are also analyzed. This report also states import/export consumption, supply and demand Figures, cost, price, revenue and gross margins.Global Direct Attached Storage System Industry 2018 Market Research Report is spread across 118 pages and provides exclusive vital statistics, data, information, trends and competitive landscape details in this niche sector.Inquire more or share questions if any before the purchase on this report @Global Direct Attached Storage System market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the TOP PLAYERS including Lenovo Aberdeen Huawei Contegix Cisco Dell Seagate Fujitsu The report also focuses on global major leading industry players of Global Direct Attached Storage System market providing information such as company profiles, product picture and specification, capacity, production, price, cost, revenue and contact information. Upstream raw materials and equipment and downstream demand analysis is also carried out. The Global Direct Attached Storage System market development trends and marketing channels are analyzed. Finally the feasibility of new investment projects are assessed and overall research conclusions offered.With tables and figures helping analyze worldwide Global Direct Attached Storage System market, this research provides key statistics on the state of the industry and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the market.Order a copy of Global Direct Attached Storage System Market Report 2018 @On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split into 1T 2-8T >8TOn the basis of the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, consumption (sales), market share and growth rate for each application, including Home Users Government Commercial UsersMajor Points from Table of Contents:1 Global Direct Attached Storage System Market Overview2 Global Direct Attached Storage System Market Competition by Manufacturers3 Global Direct Attached Storage System Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2013-2018)4 Global Direct Attached Storage System Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2013-2018)5 Global Direct Attached Storage System Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type6 Global Direct Attached Storage System Market Analysis by Application7 Global Direct Attached Storage (DAS) System Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis7.1 Lenovo7.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.1.2 Direct Attached Storage (DAS) System Product Category, Application and Specification7.1.2.1 Product A7.1.2.2 Product B7.1.3 Lenovo Direct Attached Storage (DAS) System Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.2 Aberdeen7.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.2.2 Direct Attached Storage (DAS) System Product Category, Application and Specification7.2.2.1 Product A7.2.2.2 Product B7.2.3 Aberdeen Direct Attached Storage (DAS) System Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.3 Huawei7.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.3.2 Direct Attached Storage (DAS) System Product Category, Application and Specification7.3.2.1 Product A7.3.2.2 Product B7.3.3 Huawei Direct Attached Storage (DAS) System Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview8 Global Direct Attached Storage System Market Manufacturing Cost Analysis9 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers10 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders11 Market Effect Factors Analysis12 Global Direct Attached Storage System Market Forecast (2018-2025)13 Research Findings and Conclusion14 AppendixAuthor ListDisclosure SectionResearch MethodologyData SourceAbout Us:Orian Research is one of the most comprehensive collections of market intelligence reports on the World Wide Web. Our reports repository boasts of over 500000+ industry and country research reports from over 100 top publishers. We continuously update our repository so as to provide our clients easy access to the world's most complete and current database of expert insights on global industries, companies, and products. We also specialize in custom research in situations where our syndicate research offerings do not meet the specific requirements of our esteemed clients.Contact Us:Ruwin MendezVice President Global Sales & Partner RelationsOrian Research ConsultantsUS: +1 (415) 830-3727 | UK: +44 020 8144-71-27Email: info@orianresearch.comWebsite:Follow Us on LinkedIn: World Egg Allergy Market Analysis Latest Report by Major Growth Drivers DJO Global, Inc., Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Breg, Inc.Outlook 2023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/4734 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/egg-allergy-market-4734 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/4734 The Report Gives Detail Analysis of the Market Structure Along with Forecast, Market Size & Share, Different Segments and Developing Trends of the Industry.Egg Allergy Market -HighlightsEgg allergy is defined as an allergic reaction induced due to immunological nature of egg proteins. The condition includes other allergic syndromes as well such as atopic dermatitis and eosinophilic esophagitis.Egg allergy is more prevalent in children and can outgrow before adolescence. There are majorly five allergenic proteins present in the egg of a chicken.Most allergenic egg proteins found in egg white are ovomucoid (Gal d 1), ovalbumin (Gal d 2), lysozyme (Gal d 4), and ovotransferrin (Gal d 3).Egg Allergy Market -Key PlayersGenentech, Inc.,Novartis AG.,Pfizer Inc.,Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.,Bayer AG,Abbott,Astellas,Sanofi,Merck & Co., Inc.,Request Sample with Emerging Trends @Increasing prevalence of egg allergy, consumer awareness and improved allergy diagnosis, increasing incidences of asthma, and increasing incidences of asthma promote the growth of egg allergy market.As per the study published in Pediatric Clinics of North America journal in 2014, the prevalence rate of egg allergy in German children is 0.0004%, 0.6% in children from Mexico, and 1.6% in Danish children. In the United States, 1.3% of prevalence rate was reported.It is estimated that egg allergy market is expected to grow at a CAGR 6.5% during the forecast period of 2017-2023.Egg Allergy Market -Regional AnalysisThe Americas dominate the egg allergy market owing to the increasing consumer awareness among people, and high healthcare expenditure. According to the study published in the JAMA Pediatrics journal in 2013, the overall cost incurred by the food allergy in the United States was nearly USD 25 billion annually.Read Comprehensive Overview of Report @Europe holds the second position in an egg allergy market. It is found that increasing incidence of egg allergy due to egg protein will drive the market in Europe region.Asia Pacific represents the fastest growing egg allergy market owing to the increasing innovation in allergen-free food products, and increasing per capita spending on healthcare.Egg Allergy Market -SegmentationThe egg allergy market is segmented on the basis of diagnosis, treatment & management and end-users. On the basis of diagnosis, market is segmented into skin-prick test, atopy patch test (APT), blood test, oral food challenge, and others.On the basis of treatment & management, market is classified into Oral Immunotherapy (OIT), Medication, and others. Medication is further segmented into antihistamins, epinephrine shots, and others.On the basis of end-users, market is segmented into hospital & clinics, diagnostic centers, research & academic institutes, and others.Feel Free to Ask Any Query @Some Points form Table of Content of Global Egg Allergy MarketChapter 1. Report PrologueChapter 2. Market Introduction2.1 Definition2.2 Scope of the Study2.2.1 Research Objective2.2.2 Assumptions2.2.3 LimitationsChapter 3. Research Methodology3.1 Introduction3.2 Primary Research3.3 Secondary Research3.4 Market Size EstimationContinuedAbout US:Market Research Future (MRFR), enable customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.Contact Us:Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPhone: +1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Market 2018 Analysis By Key Players Lonza Group, Akzo Nobel, PPG Industries, BASF, Kurt Obermeier, RUTGERS Organics, Sarpap & Cecil Industries https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/3441352-global-wood-preservative-chemicals-and-coatings-active-market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/3441352-global-wood-preservative-chemicals-and-coatings-active-market Development of eco-friendly active ingredients for wood preservative chemicals such as azoles, IPBC, permethrin etc. is one of the key strategies adopted by wood preservative chemicals and coatings active ingredient manufacturers.Growth in the global construction industry is anticipated to have a high impact on the wood preservative chemicals and coatings active ingredient market over the forecast period.Global Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active market size will increase to xx Million US$ by 2025, from xx Million US$ in 2017, at a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period. In this study, 2017 has been considered as the base year and 2018 to 2025 as the forecast period to estimate the market size for Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active.This report researches the worldwide Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active market size (value, capacity, production and consumption) in key regions like North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (China, Japan) and other regions.This study categorizes the global Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active breakdown data by manufacturers, region, type and application, also analyzes the market status, market share, growth rate, future trends, market drivers, opportunities and challenges, risks and entry barriers, sales channels, distributors and Porter's Five Forces Analysis.This report focuses on the top manufacturers' Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active capacity, production, value, price and market share of Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active in global market. The following manufacturers are covered in this report:LanxessJanssen Preservation & Material ProtectionLonza GroupAkzo NobelPPG IndustriesBASFKurt ObermeierRUTGERS OrganicsSarpap & Cecil IndustriesKoopers HoldingsRequest a Sample Report @Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Breakdown Data by TypeInorganic Active IngredientOrganic Active IngredientWood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Breakdown Data by ApplicationForestry & BiomassTree CareSawmillOthersWood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Production Breakdown Data by RegionUnited StatesEuropeChinaJapanOther RegionsWood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Consumption Breakdown Data by RegionNorth AmericaUnited StatesCanadaMexicoAsia-PacificChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaAustraliaIndonesiaMalaysiaPhilippinesThailandVietnamEuropeGermanyFranceUKItalyRussiaRest of EuropeCentral & South AmericaBrazilRest of South AmericaMiddle East & AfricaGCC CountriesTurkeyEgyptSouth AfricaRest of Middle East & AfricaThe study objectives are:To analyze and research the global Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active capacity, production, value, consumption, status and forecast;To focus on the key Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active manufacturers and study the capacity, production, value, market share and development plans in next few years.To focuses on the global key manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the market competition landscape, SWOT analysis.To define, describe and forecast the market by type, application and region.To analyze the global and key regions market potential and advantage, opportunity and challenge, restraints and risks.To identify significant trends and factors driving or inhibiting the market growth.To analyze the opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying the high growth segments.To strategically analyze each submarket with respect to individual growth trend and their contribution to the market.To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market.To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their growth strategies.Table of Contents - Key PointsGlobal Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Market Research Report 2018-2025, by Manufacturers, Regions, Types and Applications1 Study Coverage1.1 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Product1.2 Key Market Segments in This Study1.3 Key Manufacturers Covered1.4 Market by Type1.4.1 Global Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Market Size Growth Rate by Type1.4.2 Inorganic Active Ingredient1.4.3 Organic Active Ingredient1.5 Market by Application1.5.1 Global Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Market Size Growth Rate by Application1.5.2 Forestry & Biomass1.5.3 Tree Care1.5.4 Sawmill1.5.5 Others1.6 Study Objectives1.7 Years Considered2 Executive Summary2.1 Global Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Production2.1.1 Global Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Revenue 2013-20252.1.2 Global Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Production 2013-20252.1.3 Global Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Capacity 2013-20252.1.4 Global Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Marketing Pricing and Trends2.2 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Growth Rate (CAGR) 2018-20252.3 Analysis of Competitive Landscape2.3.1 Manufacturers Market Concentration Ratio (CR5 and HHI)2.3.2 Key Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Manufacturers2.4 Market Drivers, Trends and Issues2.5 Macroscopic Indicator2.5.1 GDP for Major Regions2.5.2 Price of Raw Materials in Dollars: Evolution3 Market Size by Manufacturers3.1 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Production by Manufacturers3.1.1 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Production by Manufacturers3.1.2 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Production Market Share by Manufacturers3.2 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Revenue by Manufacturers3.2.1 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Revenue by Manufacturers (2013-2018)3.2.2 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Revenue Share by Manufacturers (2013-2018)3.3 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Price by Manufacturers3.4 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion Plans...........8 Manufacturers Profiles8.1 Lanxess8.1.1 Lanxess Company Details8.1.2 Company Description8.1.3 Capacity, Production and Value of Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active8.1.4 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Product Description8.1.5 SWOT Analysis8.2 Janssen Preservation & Material Protection8.2.1 Janssen Preservation & Material Protection Company Details8.2.2 Company Description8.2.3 Capacity, Production and Value of Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active8.2.4 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Product Description8.2.5 SWOT Analysis8.3 Lonza Group8.3.1 Lonza Group Company Details8.3.2 Company Description8.3.3 Capacity, Production and Value of Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active8.3.4 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Product Description8.3.5 SWOT Analysis8.4 Akzo Nobel8.4.1 Akzo Nobel Company Details8.4.2 Company Description8.4.3 Capacity, Production and Value of Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active8.4.4 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Product Description8.4.5 SWOT Analysis8.5 PPG Industries8.5.1 PPG Industries Company Details8.5.2 Company Description8.5.3 Capacity, Production and Value of Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active8.5.4 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Product Description8.5.5 SWOT Analysis8.6 BASF8.6.1 BASF Company Details8.6.2 Company Description8.6.3 Capacity, Production and Value of Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active8.6.4 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Product Description8.6.5 SWOT Analysis8.7 Kurt Obermeier8.7.1 Kurt Obermeier Company Details8.7.2 Company Description8.7.3 Capacity, Production and Value of Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active8.7.4 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Product Description8.7.5 SWOT Analysis8.8 RUTGERS Organics8.8.1 RUTGERS Organics Company Details8.8.2 Company Description8.8.3 Capacity, Production and Value of Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active8.8.4 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Product Description8.8.5 SWOT Analysis8.9 Sarpap & Cecil Industries8.9.1 Sarpap & Cecil Industries Company Details8.9.2 Company Description8.9.3 Capacity, Production and Value of Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active8.9.4 Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Product DescriptionContinuedAccess Complete Report @ABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.ADDRES:WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India Cashew Nuts Market Analysis Report By Key Players- Aryan International, Agrocel Industries, CBL Natural Foods, Delphi Organic, Alien Green, Bata Food. Cashew Nuts Market https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/requested_sample/6135 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/enquiry_before_buying/6135 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/buy/cashew-nuts-market www.upmarketresearch.com Up Market Research offers a latest published report on Global Cashew Nuts Market Industry Analysis and Forecast 2018-2025 delivering key insights and providing a competitive advantage to clients through a detailed report. The report contains 116 pages which highly exhibits on current market analysis scenario, upcoming as well as future opportunities, revenue growth, pricing and profitability.Get FREE Exclusive PDF Sample Copy of This Report @The report begins with the overview of the Cashew Nuts market and updates the users about the latest developments and future expectations. It presents a comparative detailed analysis of all the regional and major player segments, offering readers a better knowledge of areas in which they can place their existing resources and gauging the priority of a particular region in order to boost their standing in the global market.Cashew Nuts market research report delivers a close watch on leading competitors with strategic analysis, micro and macro market trend and scenarios, pricing analysis and a holistic overview of the market situations in the forecast period. It is a professional and a detailed report focusing on primary and secondary drivers, market share, leading segments and geographical analysis. Further, key players, major collaborations, merger & acquisitions along with trending innovation and business policies are reviewed in the report. The report contains basic, secondary and advanced information pertaining to the Cashew Nuts global status and trend, market size, share, growth, trends analysis, segment and forecasts from 2018 - 2025.The scope of the report extends from market scenarios to comparative pricing between major players, cost and profit of the specified market regions. The numerical data is backed up by statistical tools such as SWOT analysis, BCG matrix, SCOT analysis, PESTLE analysis and so on. The statistics are represented in graphical format for a clear understanding on facts and figures.For More Information, Please Visit @The generated report is firmly based on primary research, interviews with top executives, news sources and information insiders. Secondary research techniques are implemented for better understanding and clarity for data analysis.The report for Cashew Nuts market industry analysis & forecast 2018-2025 is segmented into Product Segment, Application Segment & Major players.Region-wise Analysis Global Cashew Nuts Market covers: North America Europe China Japan India Southeast Asia Other regions (Central & South America, Middle East & Africa)The Major players reported in the market include: Cascade Agro industrial Ajanta Industries Aurora Products Divine Foods Achal Cashew nuts Multiple Organics Tierra Farm Pro Nature Organic FoodsGlobal Cashew Nuts Market: Product Segment Analysis:By Form Whole Roasted Powder Paste SplitsBy Food Type Dairy Products Bakery Products Snacks & Bars Confectionaries Cereals Desserts BeveragesGlobal Cashew Nuts Market: Application Segment Analysis: Retailers Convenience Stores Supermarkets Specialist StoresBuy Cashew Nuts Market analysis & forecast 2018-2023 Report along with complete TOC @Global Cashew Nuts Market Industry Analysis and Forecast 2018-2025 report helps the clients to take business decisions and to understand strategies of major players in the industry. The report also calls for market-driven results deriving feasibility studies for client needs. UpMarketResearch ensures qualified and verifiable aspects of market data operating in the real-time scenario. The analytical studies are conducted ensuring client needs with a thorough understanding of market capacities in the real-time scenario.Key Reasons to Purchase: To gain insightful analyses of the market and have a comprehensive understanding of the Global Cashew Nuts Market Industry Analysis and Forecast 2018-2025 and its commercial landscape Learn about the market strategies that are being adopted by your competitors and leading organizations To understand the future outlook and prospects for Cashew Nuts market industry analysis and forecast 2018-2025.Customization of the Report:Up Market Research provides free customization of reports as per your need. This report can be personalized to meet your requirements. Get in touch with our sales team, who will guarantee you to get a report that suits your necessities.About Up Market Research:Up Market Research () is a leading distributor of market research report with more than 800+ global clients. As a market research company, we take pride in equipping our clients with insights and data that holds the power to truly make a difference to their business. Our mission is singular and well-defined we want to help our clients envisage their business environment so that they are able to make informed, strategic and therefore successful decisions for themselves.Contact Info:Name: Alex MathewsEmail: alex@upmarketresearch.comOrganization: Up Market ResearchAddress: 500 East E Street, Ontario, CA 91764, United States. Mobile White Board Global Industry Report 2018 - History, Present and Future https://www.research2reports.com/sample-report-chemical/mobile-white-board-market/70506 https://www.research2reports.com/report-chemical/mobile-white-board-market/70506 https://www.research2reports.com/enquiry-before-buy-chemical/mobile-white-board-market/70506 https://www.research2reports.com GET SAMPLE REPORTThe global market size of Mobile White Board is $XX million in 2017 with XX CAGR from 2013 to 2017, and it is expected to reach $XX million by the end of 2023 with a CAGR of XX% from 2018 to 2023.There are 3 key segments covered in this report: geography segment, end use/application segment and competitor segment.For geography segment, regional supply, application-wise and type-wise demand, major players, price is presented from 2013 to 2023. This report coverss following regions:*North America*South America*Asia & Pacific*Europe*MEA (Middle East and Africa)The key countries in each region are taken into consideration as well, such as United States, China, Japan, India, Korea, ASEAN, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, CIS, and Brazil etc.For end use/application segment, this report focuses on the status and outlook for key applications. End users also can be listed.For competitor segment, the report includes global key players of Mobile White Board as well as some small players. The compnaies include:Quartet, Deli, Hubei-An Technology, Bi-Silque, Neoplex, Luxor, Umajirushi, Zhengzhou Aucs, Foshan Yakudo, Nichigaku et al.The information for each competitor includes:*Company Profile*Main Business Information*SWOT Analysis*Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin*Market ShareWe also can offer customized report to fulfill special requirements of our clients.ACCESS REPORTTable of ContentsChapter 1 Executive SummaryChapter 2 Abbreviation and AcronymsChapter 3 Preface3.1 Research Scope3.2 Research Methodology3.2.1 Data Collection3.2.2 Data Analysis3.2.3 Data Validation3.3 Research Sources3.3.1 Primary Sources3.3.2 Secondary Sources3.3.3 AssumptionsChapter 4 Market Landscape4.1 Market Overview4.2 Classification/Types4.3 Application/End UsersChapter 5 Market Trend Analysis5.1 Introduction5.2 Drivers5.3 Restraints5.4 Opportunities5.5 Threats. CONTINUEDList of Tables and FiguresTable Abbreviation and Acronyms ListTable Research Scope of Mobile White Board ReportTable Primary Sources of Mobile White Board ReportTable Secondary Sources of Mobile White Board ReportTable Major Assumptions of Mobile White Board ReportFigure Mobile White Board PictureTable Mobile White Board ClassificationTable Mobile White Board Applications ListTable Drivers of Mobile White Board MarketTable Restraints of Mobile White Board MarketTable Opportunities of Mobile White Board MarketTable Threats of Mobile White Board MarketTable Key Raw Material of Mobile White Board and Its SuppliersTable Key Technologies of Mobile White BoardTable Cost Structure of Mobile White BoardTable Market Channel of Mobile White BoardTable Mobile White Board Application and Key End Users ListTable Latest News of Mobile White Board IndustryTable Recently Merger and Acquisition List of Mobile White Board IndustryTable Recently Planned/Future Project List of Mobile White Board IndustryTable Policy Dynamics Update of Mobile White Board IndustryTable 2013-2023 Export of Mobile White Board by RegionTable 2013-2023 Import of Mobile White Board by RegionTable 2013-2023 Balance of Trade of Mobile White BoardFigure 2013 2018 and 2023 Global Trade Map of Mobile White BoardTable 2013-2018 North America Supply of Mobile White BoardFigure 2013-2018 North America Mobile White Board Supply and GAGRTable 2013-2018 North America Mobile White Board Downstream Demand ListFigure 2013-2018 North America Mobile White Board Downstream Demand and CAGRFigure 2013 Major Players Market Share in North AmericaFigure 2018 Major Players Market Share in North America. CONTINUEDFOR ANY QUERY, REACHContact Us:Office No. 212/213, B Block 2nd Floor,Parmar Chambers,Sadhu Vaswani Road, Pune - 411001Phone Number: 020 - 2612 6969Email: info@research2reports.comWebsite -Research 2 Reports offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe.Office No. 212/213, B Block 2nd Floor,Parmar Chambers,Sadhu Vaswani Road, Pune - 411001 New study On Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market With Market Growth And Trends- Analysis By Top Key Player - iRobot Corporation, Ecovacs, Neato Robotics, Dyson, Metapo | Global Forecast till 2022 Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market https://www.businessindustryreports.com/sample-request/111365 https://www.businessindustryreports.com/buy-now/111365/single https://www.businessindustryreports.com/check-discount/111365 This report provides in depth study of Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market using SWOT analysis i.e. Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threat to the organization. The Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market report also provides an in-depth survey of key players in the market organization.Global Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market Overview:According to Market Analyst, Global Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market is projected to grow at a healthy growth rate from 2018 to 2022.Request Report Sample@The Global Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market research 2018 highlights the major details and provides in-depth analysis of the market along with the future growth, prospects and Industry demands analysis explores with the help of complete report with 125 Pages, figures, graphs and table of contents to analyze the situations of global Circular Saw Blades market and Assessment to 2022.The increased penetration of automation in household appliances, rise in labor cost, and increasing safety concern are expected to be major drivers of growth for the market. Rising advancements in technology and emergence of AI technology in the cleaning robots will bring new opportunities in the market in the coming years.Innovation and technological advancements in robotics have allowed the manufacturers to add more smart abilities and convenience features, and this has been the major factor in driving the growth of highly efficient and fully automated floor cleaning robots market.The Global Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market is segmented on the basis of Type, Application and Region. On the basis of Type, the market can be segmented into SMART NAVI, App Control, Voice Report, Automatic Charging, Optional Mop. On the basis of Application, the market can be divided into Wood Floor, Ceramic Tile, Carpet.Regionally, North America is anticipated to be the largest delivery robots market across the globe over the forecast period due to the higher adoption rate of robotics technology.Purchase this premium research report with 125 Pages and No. of Table of contents, List of table atThe Market is segmented and projected on the basis of major key players:1 iRobot Corporation2 Ecovacs3 Neato Robotics4 Dyson5 Metapo6 Panasonic Corporation7 Miele and More.The Market is segmented and projected on the basis of major Region Segmentation1 North America Country (United States, Canada)2 South America3 Asia Country (China, Japan, India, Korea)4 Europe Country (Germany, UK, France, Italy)5 Other Country (Middle East, Africa, GCC)Grab Your Report at an Impressive Discount @Key Questions Answered in this Report:1 What will the market size be in 2022?2 What are the key factors driving the Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market?3 What are the challenges to market growth?4 Who are the key players in Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market?5 What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key players?TABLE OF CONTENTS1 Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Product Definition2 Global Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market Manufacturer Share and Market Overview3 Manufacturer Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Business Introduction4 Global Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market Segmentation (Region Level)5 Global Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market Segmentation (Product Type Level)6 Global Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market Segmentation (Industry Level)7 Global Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market Segmentation (Channel Level)8 Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Market Forecast 2018-20229 Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Segmentation Product Type10 Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Segmentation Industry11 Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robots Cost of Production Analysis12 ConclusionAbout UsBusinessindustryReports.com is digital database of comprehensive market reports for global industries. As a market research company, we take pride in equipping our clients with insights and data that holds the power to truly make a difference to their business. Our mission is singular and well-defined we want to help our clients envisage their business environment so that they are able to make informed, strategic and therefore successful decisions for themselves.Media ContactBusiness Industry ReportsPune Indiasales@businessindustryreports.com+19376349940 Global Dimethyl Ether Market Analysis 2018-2025: Top Players China Energy Ltd, Mitsubishi Corporation, Jiutai Energy (Zhangjiagang) Co. LTD Global Dimethyl Ether Market https://databridgemarketresearch.com/request-a-sample/?dbmr=global-dimethyl-ether-market/ https://databridgemarketresearch.com/inquire-before-buying/?dbmr=global-dimethyl-ether-market/ https://databridgemarketresearch.com/toc/?dbmr=global-dimethyl-ether-market Dimethyl Ether (DME) is produced by the conversion of hydrocarbons through gasification process into synthesis gas. Synthesis gas is transformed into methanol in the existence of catalyst with consequent methanol dehydration under the presence of various catalysts like silica-alumina. It is commonly used as a replacement for propane in liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and in diesel fuel in transportation. Diesel fuel is more effective than gasoline, it is utilized where pure methanol wouldnt be able to power a diesel engine efficiently and also used in almost every passenger cars. Due to its high ocetane number, it acts as an advantage over traditional diesel fuel. DME can accomplish better mileage and emissions reductions along with higher efficiencies. Rising environmental concern towards dimethyl ether is a factor which will drive the market. For instance, according to U.S. Federal Regulations, Dimethyl Ether is subjected to the reporting requirements of Section 112(r) of the Clean Air Act. Thus, it involved as flammable gas on-site, in quantity 10,000 lb (4,553 kg) or greater comes under this particular regulation except it is used as a fuel.The Global Dimethyl Ether Market is expected to reach 18,550.12 kilotons by 2025, from 5788.4 KT in 2017, growing at a CAGR of 15.2% during the forecast period of 2018 to 2025. The upcoming market report contains data for historic year 2016, the base year of calculation is 2017 and the forecast period is 2018 to 2025.Get free sample report atKey Market Competitors in the Global Dimethyl Ether Market are: China Energy Limited Mitsubishi Corporation Jiutai Energy GroupThe other players in the market are Akzo Nobel N.V., China Energy Limited, The Chemours Company, Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Ferrostaal GmbH, Grillo Werke AG, Jiutai Energy Group, Oberon Fuels, Zagros Petrochemical Company, TOTAL S.A., Grillo-Werke AG., Praxair, Inc. among others.Global Dimethyl Ether Market is segmented into:By Raw Material Coal Methanol Natural gas Bio-based feedstock OtherBy Application Aerosol Propellant LPG Blending Transportation fuel OthersBy Geography North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico) Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, Turkey, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland, Rest of Europe) Asia-Pacific (Japan. China, South Korea, India, Australia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Rest of Asia Pacific) South America (Brazil, Rest of South America) Middle East & Africa (South Africa, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Rest of MEA)Global Dimethyl Ether Market, By Raw Material (Coal, Methanol, Natural gas, Bio-based feedstock), By Application (Aerosol Propellant, LPG Blending, Transportation fuel, Others), By End User (Construction, Automobile, Pesticides, Textiles Food Ingredients, Others), By Geography (North America, South America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa) Industry Trends and Forecast to 2025.For enquiries visitMarket Drivers: Increasing alternatives of raw material and wide application in products Rich coal deposits in Asia-Pacific Rising environmental concern driving the demand for DMEMarket Restraint: Alteration in the existing infrastructure Less effective than the Diesel fuelCompetitive Landscape regarding Global Dimethyl Ether MarketThe global dimethyl ether market is highly fragmented and the major players have used various strategies such as new product launches, expansions, agreements, joint ventures, partnerships, acquisitions, and others to increase their footprints in this market. The report includes market shares of the dimethyl ether market for global, Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, South America and Middle East & Africa.Key Insights in the report: Historical and current market size and projection up to 2025 Market trends impacting the growth of the global dimethyl ether market Analyze and forecast the dimethyl ether market on the basis of raw material and application Trends of key regional and country-level markets for raw material and application Company profiling of key players which includes business operations, product and services, geographic presence, recent developments and key financial analysis.Get TOC of Full Report atAbout Data Bridge Market ResearchData Bridge Market Research set forth itself as an unconventional and neoteric Market research and consulting firm with unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are determined to unearth the best market opportunities and foster efficient information for your business to thrive in the market. Data Bridge endeavors to provide appropriate solutions to the complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process.Contact:Data Bridge Market ResearchTel: +1-888-387-2818Email: sopan.gedam@databridgemarketresearch.com Respiratory Monitoring Market Rising at 9.5% CAGR by 2023 with COVIDIEN, GE HEALTHCARE, PHILIPS HEALTHCARE, SIEMENS HEALTHCARE, RESMED, DRAEGERWERK, CALONDO PHARMACEUTICALS https://marketprognosis.com/sample-request/17007 https://marketprognosis.com/discount-request/17007 https://marketprognosis.com/enquiry/17007 The respiratory monitoring market is expected to witness a CAGR of 9.5%, during the forecast period. North America has been accounted for the largest share in the global market in 2017 and it is expected to grow at the considerable rate in the upcoming future.Detailed Sample Copy of Updated Analysis @Note: If this link doesnt work in Internet Explorer, kindly try copy pasting it in other browsers.Rising Prevalence of Respiratory DiseasesThe respiratory diseases, such as asthma, lung cancer, COPDs, are increasing at an alarming rate in both the developed and developing countries, which is driving the respiratory monitoring market globally. Based on the data from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 25 million Americans have been found affected by asthma, in that 7.6 percent are adults and 8.4 percent are children. In 2015, 47.5 percent of children, aged 18 and younger, who had asthma reported having one or more asthma attacks in the past year. Due to this, continuously increasing respiratory diseases is creating a demand for the early diagnosis of these diseases, which results in more usage of the respiratory devices. Hence, due to the rising prevalence of the respiratory diseases the market is likely to grow.The other factors include the rapid growth in geriatric population, urbanization, and growing pollution levels, high prevalence of tobacco smoking and development of advanced technologies.Key Developments in the MarketApril 2017 - ResMed launched AirMini, the world's smallest CPAP machine for the treatment of sleep apneaMajor Players-COVIDIEN, GE HEALTHCARE, PHILIPS HEALTHCARE, SIEMENS HEALTHCARE, RESMED, MERCK & CO. INC., DRAEGERWERK, CALONDO PHARMACEUTICALS INC. AND QUARK PHARMACEUTICALS INC., amongst others.Get Quality Discount @Note: If this link doesnt work in Internet Explorer, kindly try copy pasting it in other browsers.High Price of the Monitoring DevicesThe average cost of the respiratory medical devices is generally between USD 2000- 5000. Due to the high cost, the low-income countries cannot afford these respiratory equipments. Hence, the cost of acquiring the respiratory medical devices is very high, considering the fact that a single device is not sufficient per hospital. The maintenance costs and service contracts are also very high for these devices. Therefore, due to this increasing price the mass adoption is being restricted, which is likely to impede the growth of this market. The other factor also includes the reimbursement concerns.North America Dominates the MarketNorth America dominates the global respiratory monitoring market due to the high medical reimburstments facilities, and the increasing technological advancements. Asia Pacific is also, projected to have the fastest growth owing to the rapidly increasing aging population, rise in the consumer awareness and the growing of the medical tourism in the developing nations, such as China and India in this region.Browse Report @Note: If this link doesnt work in Internet Explorer, kindly try copy pasting it in other browsers.About Market PrognosisWe at Market Prognosis believe in giving a crystal clear view of market dynamics for achieving success in todays complex and competitive marketplace through our quantitative & qualitative research methods.We help our clients identify the best market insights and analysis required for their business thus enabling them to take strategic and intelligent decision.We believe in delivering actionable insights for your business growth and success.Contact us:ProgMarkPvt Ltd,Thane - 421501India.Contact No: +1 973 241 5193Email: sales@marketprognosis.com Growing Industry of Autonomous/Driverless Cars Market |Worldwide leading Key players Tesla, BMW, Daimler, BYD, Waymo, Volvo | Business outlook till 2022 Autonomous/Driverless Cars Market https://www.businessindustryreports.com/sample-request/111046 https://www.businessindustryreports.com/buy-now/111046/single https://www.businessindustryreports.com/check-discount/111046 Businessindustryreports have new report on Global Autonomous/Driverless Cars Market 2018-2022. The report provides the newest industry data and industry future trends. The industry report lists the leading competitors and provides the insights strategic industry Analysis of the key factors influencing the market.This Report covers the Major Players data, including: shipment, revenue, gross profit, interview record, business distribution etc., these data help the consumer know about the competitors better. This report also covers all the regions and countries of the world, which shows a regional development status, including market size.Get Sample Copy of this Report @Increase in acceptance of semi-autonomous technologies, such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), automatic parking, and forward collision avoidance, is anticipated to pave the way for the adoption of driverless automobiles over the next seven years. An upsurge in the demand for increased comfort and convenience, particularly in countries with an aging population, is expected to propel the driverless vehicles demand over the forecast period.The Driverless vehicles are made up of numerous sensors, such as LiDAR and RADAR systems, working concurrently to carry out operations automatically or without the help of drivers. By performing situational analysis, motion planning, and trajectory control, these sensors help in the process of navigation.Geographically U.S. is projected to witness high adoption of driverless technology in transportation owing to increased government support in amending transport regulations to create a gateway for autonomous truck market. Europe is also expected to emerge as a potentially lucrative market for self-driving vehicles with growing consumer preference for techno-advanced products.Key Players:1 Tesla2 BMW3 Daimler4 BYD5 Waymo6 Volvo7 Ford Motor and more...Purchase this report online with 125 Pages, List of Tables & Figures and in-depth Table of Contents on Global Autonomous/Driverless Cars Market Outlook 2018-2022 @Furthermore on other side, the high price of driverless vehicles may act as a hindrance for the market growth. The emotional implication of giving over personal safety and accountability to a machine may result in volatile public responses toward errors. The liability in case of accidents poses a key challenge for the government to address in advance to the adoption of autonomous cars. In addition to this, the penetration of driverless vehicles in taxis and other private point-to-point travelling industries is expected to increase the unemployment rate of drivers. Thus, the driverless vehicles are anticipated to witness mixed views. However, the increasing government support across the developed countries is expected to encourage the adoption of autonomous cars during the forecast period.Regions:1 North America Country (United States, Canada)2 South America3 Asia Country (China, Japan, India, Korea)4 Europe Country (Germany, UK, France, Italy)5 Other Country (Middle East, Africa, GCC)Product Types:1 Semi-autonomous Vehicle2 Fully Autonomous VehicleGrab Your Report at an Impressive Discount @Table of Content:1 Autonomous/Driverless Cars Product Definition2 Global Autonomous/Driverless Cars Manufacturer Share and Market Overview3 Manufacturer Autonomous/Driverless Cars Business Introduction4 Global Autonomous/Driverless Cars Market Segmentation (Region Level)5 Global Autonomous/Driverless Cars Market Segmentation (Product Type Level)6 Global Autonomous/Driverless Cars Market Segmentation (Industry Level)7 Global Autonomous/Driverless Cars Market Segmentation (Channel Level)8 Autonomous/Driverless Cars Market Forecast 2018-20229 Autonomous/Driverless Cars Segmentation Product Type10 Autonomous/Driverless Cars Segmentation Industry11 Autonomous/Driverless Cars Cost of Production Analysis12 ConclusionAbout us:BusinessindustryReports.com is digital database of comprehensive market reports for global industries. As a market research company, we take pride in equipping our clients with insights and data that holds the power to truly make a difference to their business. Our mission is singular and well-defined we want to help our clients envisage their business environment so that they are able to make informed, strategic and therefore successful decisions for themselves.Media ContactBusiness Industry ReportsPune Indiasales@businessindustryreports.com+19376349940 Soft skills training software Market Research Report Forecast 2025: future scope, rising demand by top companies Pearson, Articulate, and Skill soft. https://www.reportconsultant.com/request_sample.php?id=1419 https://www.reportconsultant.com/ask_for_discount.php?id=1419 https://www.reportconsultant.com/enquiry_before_buying.php?id=1419 www.reportconsultant.com Soft skills training software market report provides detailed segmentation based on soft skills type, delivery mode, end-use industry and provider. During the initial period, the offline market dominates the market. However, due to key benefits such as flexibility and scalability, the online market is expected to contribute significantly during the forecast period. Depending on the type of soft skills, the market is divided into management and leadership, administrative and secretarial, communication and productivity, personal development and other sectors. There are various soft skills that recruit recruit find candidates while recruiting recruits. However, these technologies are developed for candidates over a period of time. Communication and productivity courses refine oral and written communication and foster relevant skills.The main goal for the dissemination of this information is to give a descriptive analysis of how the trends could potentially affect the upcoming future of Cloud accounting software market during the forecast period. This markets competitive manufactures and the upcoming manufactures are studied with their detailed research. Revenue, production, price, market share of these players is mentioned with precise information.For Sample Copy of this report:This report focuses on the global top players, coveredPearsonArticulateSkill softVital smartsArticulateComputer Generated SolutionsDesire 2 LearnGlobal Training SolutionsInteraction AssociatesNew Horizons WorldwideNIITWilson Learning WorldwideAvail discount on this report:Global Soft Skills Management Market, by Delivery ModeRegular/OfflineOnlineAsynchronous Online CoursesSynchronous Online CoursesHybrid CoursesGlobal Soft Skills Management Market, by Soft Skill TypeManagement & LeadershipAdministration & SecretarialCommunication & ProductivityPersonal DevelopmentOthersFor more enquiry:Table of Contents:Global Soft skills training software Market Research Report 2018-2025Chapter 1: Soft skills training software Market OverviewChapter 2: Global Economic Impact on IndustryChapter 3: Soft skills training software Market Competition by ManufacturersChapter 4: Global Production, Revenue (Value) by RegionChapter 5: Global Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by RegionsChapter 6: Global Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by TypeChapter 7: Global Market Analysis by ApplicationChapter 8: Manufacturing Cost AnalysisChapter 9: Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream BuyersChapter 10: Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/TradersChapter 11: Soft skills training software Market Effect Factors AnalysisChapter 12: Global Soft skills training software Market ForecastReport Consultant - A global leader in analytics, research and advisory that can assist you to renovate your business and modify your approach. With us, you will learn to take decisions intrepidly. We make sense of drawbacks, opportunities, circumstances, estimations and information using our experienced skills and verified methodologies.Our research reports will give you an exceptional experience of innovative solutions and outcomes. We have effectively steered businesses all over the world with our market research reports and are outstandingly positioned to lead digital transformations. Thus, we craft greater value for clients by presenting advanced opportunities in the global market.Contact us:Rebecca Parker(Report Consultant)Akasaka biz tower,5-3-1 akasaka minato-ku,Tokyo, JapanContact No: +81-368444299sales@reportconsultant.com Smart Locks Market to Reach $1,175 Million, Globally, by 2023 - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast (2017-2024) | Comprehensive Analysis of Top Impacting Growth Factors SMART LOCKS MARKET - Allied Market Research https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/2261 https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/2261 https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/connect-to-analyst/2261 https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/smart-locks-market https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com The global Smart Locks market size was valued at $416 million in 2016, and is estimated to reach at $1,175 million by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 16.4% from 2017 to 2023. North America accounted for around 34.6% share of the overall market revenue in 2016, owing to rise in security concerns among consumers, technological advancements, and increase in trend of smart homes. Asia-Pacific is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR of 18.2% from 2017 to 2023.Get Sample Report:Smart locks are electronic locks installed on the doors, which can be operated through various apps on users smartphones. These are keyless locks that operate on either Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or both. The smart locks industry is anticipated to grow at a significant pace, owing to increase in security & privacy concerns, advancements in wireless communication technologies, rise in disposable income of consumers, surge in urbanization, and the growth in need to establish connectivity across all the electronic equipment of the house. Furthermore, reduction in expenses of cloud infrastructure & broadband services and increase in user convenience to remotely control the house further supplemented the electronic locks market growth. Emergence of Internet of Things (IoT) and integrated connectivity & access to smart locks through smartphones, growth in implementation of advanced technology, such as near-field communication (NFC), low-power Bluetooth, and Z-wave/ZigBee, and increase in penetration of smartphones among consumers, are expected to offer potential growth opportunities to the market.The global smart locks market is categorized based on the type of product into deadbolts, lever handles, padlocks, and others. Deadbolts segment generated a higher revenue in 2016, and is expected to dominate the market throughout the forecast period, owing to its strong and enhanced protection against forceful physical attacks.For Purchase Inquiry:The commercial end-user segment led the smart locks market in 2016; however, the residential segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR due to rise in crime rates globally and ease of usage as smart locks are enabled with features, such as motion detectors, remote door locking & unlocking, and remote door opening sensors with the phone app of the lock. The residential segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 17.8% during the forecast period. Increase in need for automated keyless unlocking mechanism and surge in demand for smart security solutions are expected to foster the market growth.Comprehensive Analysis of Leading Market PlayersSchlageHoneywell International Inc.Panasonic CorporationVivint, Inc.ASSA ABLOY ABUniKey Technologies Inc.Haven Lock, Inc.August HomeSpectrum Brands, Inc.Samsung SDS Co. Ltd.According to the data released by the FBI regarding the crime statistics in 2015, in the U.S., the property crime rate was 2,487.0 offenses per 100,000 inhabitants and the violent crime rate increased by 3.1% compared to previous year. In such scenario, smart locks prevent thefts, lock bumping, and picking at residential properties. Smart lock manufacturers are now targeting the developing nations, such as India and China, as the potential markets, owing to increase in penetration of smart locks in the global market. However, high cost of smart lock devices and lack of awareness hamper the market growth.Speak to Analyst:The North American smart locks market is anticipated to offer beneficial growth opportunities during the forecast period, owing to well-established technological infrastructure, high consumer awareness, rise in security concerns, increase in government supports, and high investment from major IoT players. In North America, the U.S. dominates with highest share in smart locks market. Asia-Pacific is anticipated to grow at the highest rate in the near future, owing to increase in urbanization & disposable income, rise in awareness about automated solutions, surge in penetration of internet-based services, advancements in communication technology & broadband services, and growth in trend of smart homes market in Indian and Chinese market.Table of ContentChapter: 1 INTRODUCTION1.1. REPORT DESCRIPTION1.2. KEY BENEFITS1.3. KEY MARKET SEGMENTS1.4. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY1.4.1. Secondary research1.4.2. Primary research1.4.3. Analyst tools and modelsChapter: 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY2.1. CXO PERSPECTIVEChapter: 3 MARKET OVERVIEW3.1. MARKET DEFINITION AND SCOPE3.2. KEY FINDINGS3.2.1. Top impacting factors3.2.2. Top winning strategies3.2.3. Top investment pocket3.3. PORTERS FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS3.3.1. Moderate bargaining power of suppliers3.3.2. High bargaining power of buyers3.3.3. Low threat of substitution3.3.4. Moderate threat of new entrants3.3.5. High competitive rivalry3.4. MARKET DYNAMICS3.4.1. Drivers3.4.1.1. Growing application of smart locks technology in commercial and government sectors3.4.1.2. Increasing concern for safety and security3.4.1.3. Unique technology with easy usage3.4.1.4. Increasing standards of living3.4.1.5. Budding developments in emerging markets3.4.1.6. Increase in demand for smartphones3.4.1.7. Increasing trend for IoT3.4.2. Restraints3.4.2.1. High initial investments and cost of devices3.4.2.2. Fear of privacy intrusion3.4.3. Opportunities3.4.3.1. Flourishing use in residential sectorChapter: 4 SMART LOCKS MARKET, BY PRODUCT TYPE4.1. OVERVIEW4.1.1. Market size and forecast4.2. DEADBOLT4.2.1. Key market trends4.2.2. Key growth factors and opportunities4.2.3. Market size and forecast4.3. LEVER HANDLE4.3.1. Key market trends4.3.2. Key growth factors and opportunities4.3.3. Market size and forecast4.4. PADLOCK4.4.1. Key market trends4.4.2. Key growth factors and opportunities4.4.3. Market size and forecast4.5. OTHERS4.5.1. Key market trends4.5.2. Key growth factors and opportunities4.5.3. Market size and forecastFor Full TOC, Visit:About Us:Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain.We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry.Contact:David Correa5933 NE Win Sivers Drive#205, Portland, OR 97220United StatesToll Free (USA/Canada):+1-800-792-5285, +1-503-894-6022, +1-503-446-1141UK: +44-845-528-1300Hong Kong: +852-301-84916India (Pune): +91-20-66346060Fax: +1?855?550-5975help@alliedmarketresearch.comWeb: Anesthesia Machine Market 2023 Top Key Players are Heyer Medical AG, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, Koninklijke Philips N.V, Draeger, GE Healthcare, Covidien, Smiths Medical, Mindray DS USA Inc., and Teleflex Inc. Anesthesia Machine Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/6179 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/check-discount/6179 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/request-toc/6179 MarketResearchFuture.com Recently Added Premium Research Reports on Anesthesia Machine Market 2023 Which Gives in-depth Analysis of Regional data with Size and Share of Top 10 Players in the Globes.Competitive Landscape:Heyer Medical AG, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, Koninklijke Philips N.V, Draeger, GE Healthcare, Covidien, Smiths Medical, Mindray DS USA Inc., and Teleflex Inc.Get Premium Sample Copy @Market Scenario:The anesthetic machine is used to deliver and support anesthesia under the direct supervision of anaesthesiologists. The global anesthetic machine market was valued at 9.4 billion in 2016 and which is expected to reach 14.75 billion at a CAGR of 7.8 during the forecast period of 2016 to 2023.The growing number of surgeries performed around the globe is the prime driver of the market. According to estimates, in 2015, approximately 80 million inpatient surgeries were conducted in the U.S. According to Stanford Health Care, the most common anesthetic surgeries were nervous system surgeries, eye, ear and nasal surgeries, respiratory system surgeries, cardiovascular system surgeries, digestive system surgeries, urinary system surgeries, musculoskeletal system surgeries, and skin system surgeries.These figures swell when we include other specialties such as trauma and gynecology, which are capturing a broader market. Advancements in anesthesia system technology and the shift away from general anesthesia towards partial anesthesia, coupled with the development of short-acting anesthetics is driving a change in trend. Thus, the predominant continuous flow anesthetic machine or Boyles anesthesia machine is giving way to the intermittent flow anesthetic machine. Another trend catching on is the growing use of computer controlled anesthesia and patient monitoring devices.Portability and miniaturization have led to growing adoption of anesthesia in point of care surgeries. The growing capabilities of anesthetic devices such as the ability to deliver variable flow, minimum low flow rate, scavenging systems to capture waste gases, emergency systems such as oxygen flush systems and others are driving the market.The market restraints of the anaesthetic market are the high cost of installation and maintenance, scarcity of anesthesiologists, the risk of infection, complications such as pain, and deaths due to overdose and others. The mortality rate for general anesthesia is 1:10,000 as cited by many studies. Thus, advancements in devices due to safety concerns is strongly correlated with market growth.Segmentation:The global anesthesia machines market is segmented based on type, clinical indications, source, form, end users, distribution, and regions.Based on the type, the market comprises of continuous anaesthesia machines, intermittent anaesthesia machines, and others.Based on clinical indications, the market comprises of nervous system surgeries, eye, ear and nasal surgeries, respiratory system surgeries, cardiovascular system surgeries, digestive system surgeries, urinary system surgeries, musculoskeletal system surgeries, and skin system surgeries, and others.Based on components, the market is segmented into machines, ventilators, monitors, disposables, and others.Based on the subject, the market is segmented human and veterinary.Based on dimensions, the market is segmented into portable anaesthesia machines and stand-alone anesthesia machines.Based on end users, the market is segmented into hospitals, the point of care, and others.Based on the regions, the market is segmented as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific Middle East and Africa and rest of the world.Get Value added Discount @Regional analysis:North America commands the most significant share of the market due to a large number of surgeries and sizeable public expenditure on healthcare. The U.S. spends a substantial proportion of the GDP on healthcare, of which approximately 16 % in 2016. However, the recent reimbursement cuts by the government of U.S. may hinder the market.Europe market is dominated by Germany, France, and the U.K. Owing to the extensive medical device industry of Germany. Poland, Spain, and Italy also have a sizable market share of the European market.Asia Pacific region is expected to demonstrate the fastest growth for the anesthesia machine market is owing to economic development and developing healthcare infrastructure. China is expected to drive a considerable growth followed by India. The leading domestic players, in China, are Tuoren Medical, Shengguang Medical, and Qiangjian Medical, which account for approximately 16 % of the local market share of China.The Middle East and Africa are led by Gulf economies of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar. The Middle East is a market to watch owing to its high wealth and the development of large hospital complexes in the region such as the King Fahd hospital, Riyadh. The market is however dependent on petrodollar and the expat population, which is a threat to its stability. The kingdom of Saudi Arabia reduced its healthcare spending by 35 percent in the year 2016 to wean the downfall of revenues owing to falling crude oil prices. Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations spend approximately 75 % of total healthcare expenditure through public budgets which must be seen as a threat as well as opportunity for the private players to capture the domestic market of Gulf economies.Thus, the short-term prospects for the Middle East region are expected to rise to previous levels after 2018. The government is undertaking harsh fiscal adjustment owing to weak oil price. However, the high and satisfactory foreign reserves of Saudi Arabia, which equal over 95 % of GDP, and low public debt stock of just 5.8 % of GDP in 2015 are enough to say that the cuts will not be too drastic!The Latin America market is characterized by poor domestic capacity and capability of production. China is expected to increase its share of the medical devices imports of Brazil, especially in low-end devices. Among the regions of Brazil, Sao Paulo, Minas Gerais, Bahia, Rio de Janeiro and Parana tops the healthcare expenditure list. However, the differential regional healthcare availability owing to extreme social and economic differentiation of the Brazilian population is the prime threat to the market. The inadequate health care in its vast rural areas, political turmoil, the weak Brazilian Real are the other threats to the market.Continued!Browse Toc @Market Research Future (MRFR), enable customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPhone: +1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Parenteral Nutrition Market is booming worldwide anticipated to Show Strong Growth in Future: Top Key Players B. Braun Melsungen AG, Fresenius Kabi AG, Baxter, Pfizer, Inc., and Allergan www.analystviewmarketinsights.com/request_sample/av200/ www.analystviewmarketinsights.com/report-highlight-parenteral-nutrition-market/ https://www.analystviewmarketinsights.com/get-in-touch/ www.analystviewmarketinsights.com AnalystView Market Insights recently introduced Global Parenteral Nutrition Market study to its report store. The global market is anticipated to grow at the growth rate of 6.1% to reach USD 7.86 billion by 2025.This study focuses on the market status, growth projection, key players revenue share, drivers, restraints and opportunities with respect to the global parenteral nutrition market. This published report studies global market in terms of nutrient types such as Parenteral Lipid Emulsion, Carbohydrates, Trace Elements, Single Dose Amino Acid Solution, and Vitamins & Minerals. Also, geographies such as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa and Latin America are studied in detail.Parenteral nutrition is a sterile solution that contains macronutrient as well as a micronutrient. It helps in the administration of key vital nutrients that enables to maintain the energy, strength and hydration level of the patients. PN is aimed to meet the individuals nutritional needs, maintain body mass, organ function and immune-competence, thereby maximizing recovery potential. Rising premature births unswervingly influences the uptake of parenteral nutrition across the globe. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 15 million babies are born preterm globally every year and the number is increasing at a constant rate. As of 2016, the premature birth rate of the U.S. is about 9.6% and the government authorities are working towards reducing it to 8.1%, stated by the National Center for Healthcare Statistics.Parenteral nutrition diminishes the risk of infection and underdevelopment and also it leads to faster neurological development, and minimized risk of complications, thereby improving their chances for survival. Furthermore, increasing efforts are being taken by the NGOs and various healthcare federations to curb the progress of undernourished children is expected to boost the uptake of parenteral nutrition. For instance, to educate and raise awareness regarding malnutrition among patients and health care providers, the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) has launched the Malnutrition Awareness Week. However, increasing use of enteral nutrition coupled with product shortage pulls back the industry growth to some extent.Get access to exclusive PDF brochure of this study @Key Takeaways Among the nutrient type, single dose amino acid solution accounted for the highest share of the global market. ProSol (20%) (Baxter), Trophamine (10%) (B Braun) and Travasol (10%) (Baxter) are some of the amino acid compositions offered by key players. Parenteral lipid emulsion is projected to grow with the highest growth rate of 6.7% during the forecast period. Growing demand for this product as a cardio-protective agent, as an antidote for local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST), and vehicle for the administration of other medications support the growth. Nutrilipid, Intralipid, and Liposyn are the few product examples under this category. Among which, Intralipid became a popular brand name for lipid emulsion, offered by Baxter, due to its increased use. North America and Europe dominated the global industry with more than 75% revenue share in 2017. Increasing penetration of key players in these regions support the market growth. For instance, Fresenius doubled its production capacity in Spain in December 2015, which has resulted in increased production of infusion solutions. Companies such as Fresenius Kabi AG, Baxter International, Inc., B. Braun Melsungen AG, Pfizer, Inc., and Allergan Plc are operating in this industry.Click here to obtain more highlight on Parenteral Nutrition Market, By Nutrient Type and Geography Analysis, Share, Trends, Size, & Forecast from 2014 2025 study @The global parenteral nutrition market is segmented on the basis of: Market, by Nutrient TypeParenteral Lipid EmulsionCarbohydratesTrace ElementsSingle Dose Amino Acid SolutionVitamins & Minerals The following key players are profiled in this study:Fresenius Kabi AGB. Braun Melsungen AGBaxter International, Inc.Pfizer, Inc.Allergan Plc- Well-designed strategic framework design for these key players will help to understand the market movement including regional expansion, mergers & acquisitions, and new product developments- Thorough SWOT i.e. Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threat for individual company profiling is analyzed in order to present a detailed market opportunity assessment.Key benefits of the report: The report presents a macro and micro-level outlook regarding the industry. Thus, it becomes easy for our clients to perceive the business landscape and take a glimpse of their own standing in it. A thorough analysis of relevant statistical data to estimate the market paradigms Exceptional understanding of region and country-specific markets. The report will answer some of the toughest questions regarding the market shares, sizes, forecasts segmentations, and growth specific to the countries. Well-designed strategic framework analyzes the market movements including regional expansion, mergers & acquisitions, and new product developmentsResearch Methodology:- Preliminary Data Mining: Secondary Research, Paid Databases, Primary Research- Data Synthesis & Analysis: Top-Down Approach, Bottom-Up Approach, Supply Side and Demand Side- Market Formulation: Market Dynamics, Total Addressable Market and Machine Learning Technique- Data Verification: Quality Assurance and Reach a ConclusionTo enquire more about our research process and report store, please connect @About UsAnalystView Market Insights is a market research and consulting firm that adopts a proactive approach to provide the diverse need for accurate and precise market research, custom research, and consulting solutions across geographies and industry verticals. We strive to develop meaningful and evidence-based research data that helps our clients, empowering organizations and brands of all sizes with strategic analysis, accurate data, and consumer trends for various industries such as Healthcare, Bulk Chemicals, Semiconductors, Electronics, and Foods and Beverages.Contact UsMr. Jose (Press & Marketing Manager)Corporate Sales, USAAnalystView Market InsightsEmail: sales@analystviewmarketinsights.comTel: +91-757-498-5725 (Asia-Pacific Business Centre)Web: Global Wire and Cable Management Market 2018 Key Players: Legrand, Eaton, Hellermann Tyton, Atkore, Panduit,. Wire and Cable Management Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/3425857-global-wire-and-cable-management-market-size-status-and-forecast-2018-2025 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/3425857-global-wire-and-cable-management-market-size-status-and-forecast-2018-2025 Wire and Cable Management Market:WiseGuyReports.com adds Wire and Cable Management Market 2018 Global Analysis, Growth, Trends and Opportunities Research Report Forecasting 2025 reports tits database.Executive SummaryThis report focuses on the global Wire and Cable Management status, future forecast, growth opportunity, key market and key players. The study objectives are to present the Wire and Cable Management development in United States, Europe and China.In 2017, the global Wire and Cable Management market size was million US$ and it is expected to reach million US$ by the end of 2025, with a CAGR of during 2018-2025.The key players covered in this studyLegrand (France)Eaton (Ireland)Hellermann Tyton (England)Atkore (US)Panduit (US)Obo Bettermann (Germany)...Market segment by Type, the product can be split intoPower CableCommunication Wire & CableMarket segment by Application, split intoTrays & LaddersRacewayConnectorsTiesConduitMarket segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaCentral & South AmericaThe study objectives of this report are:To analyze global Wire and Cable Management status, future forecast, growth opportunity, key market and key players.To present the Wire and Cable Management development in United States, Europe and China.To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their development plan and strategies.To define, describe and forecast the market by product type, market and key regions.In this study, the years considered to estimate the market size of Wire and Cable Management are as follows:History Year: 2013-2017Base Year: 2017Estimated Year: 2018Forecast Year 2018 to 2025For the data information by region, company, type and application, 2017 is considered as the base year. Whenever data information was unavailable for the base year, the prior year has been considered.Request Sample Report @Table of Contents1 Report Overview1.1 Study Scope1.2 Key Market Segments1.3 Players Covered1.4 Market Analysis by Type1.4.1 Global Wire and Cable Management Market Size Growth Rate by Type (2013-2025)1.4.2 Power Cable1.4.3 Communication Wire & Cable1.5 Market by Application1.5.1 Global Wire and Cable Management Market Share by Application (2013-2025)1.5.2 Trays & Ladders1.5.3 Raceway1.5.4 Connectors1.5.5 Ties1.5.6 Conduit1.6 Study Objectives1.7 Years Considered2 Global Growth Trends2.1 Wire and Cable Management Market Size2.2 Wire and Cable Management Growth Trends by Regions2.2.1 Wire and Cable Management Market Size by Regions (2013-2025)2.2.2 Wire and Cable Management Market Share by Regions (2013-2018)2.3 Industry Trends2.3.1 Market Top Trends2.3.2 Market Drivers2.3.3 Market Opportunities3 Market Share by Key Players3.1 Wire and Cable Management Market Size by Manufacturers3.1.1 Global Wire and Cable Management Revenue by Manufacturers (2013-2018)3.1.2 Global Wire and Cable Management Revenue Market Share by Manufacturers (2013-2018)3.1.3 Global Wire and Cable Management Market Concentration Ratio (CR5 and HHI)3.2 Wire and Cable Management Key Players Head office and Area Served3.3 Key Players Wire and Cable Management Product/Solution/Service3.4 Date of Enter into Wire and Cable Management Market3.5 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion Plans4 Breakdown Data by Type and Application4.1 Global Wire and Cable Management Market Size by Type (2013-2018)4.2 Global Wire and Cable Management Market Size by Application (2013-2018)12 International Players Profiles12.1 Legrand (France)12.1.1 Legrand (France) Company Details12.1.2 Company Description and Business Overview12.1.3 Wire and Cable Management Introduction12.1.4 Legrand (France) Revenue in Wire and Cable Management Business (2013-2018)12.1.5 Legrand (France) Recent Development12.2 Eaton (Ireland)12.2.1 Eaton (Ireland) Company Details12.2.2 Company Description and Business Overview12.2.3 Wire and Cable Management Introduction12.2.4 Eaton (Ireland) Revenue in Wire and Cable Management Business (2013-2018)12.2.5 Eaton (Ireland) Recent Development12.3 Hellermann Tyton (England)12.3.1 Hellermann Tyton (England) Company Details12.3.2 Company Description and Business Overview12.3.3 Wire and Cable Management Introduction12.3.4 Hellermann Tyton (England) Revenue in Wire and Cable Management Business (2013-2018)12.3.5 Hellermann Tyton (England) Recent Development12.4 Atkore (US)12.4.1 Atkore (US) Company Details12.4.2 Company Description and Business Overview12.4.3 Wire and Cable Management Introduction12.4.4 Atkore (US) Revenue in Wire and Cable Management Business (2013-2018)12.4.5 Atkore (US) Recent Development12.5 Panduit (US)12.5.1 Panduit (US) Company Details12.5.2 Company Description and Business Overview12.5.3 Wire and Cable Management Introduction12.5.4 Panduit (US) Revenue in Wire and Cable Management Business (2013-2018)12.5.5 Panduit (US) Recent Development12.6 Obo Bettermann (Germany)12.6.1 Obo Bettermann (Germany) Company Details12.6.2 Company Description and Business Overview12.6.3 Wire and Cable Management Introduction12.6.4 Obo Bettermann (Germany) Revenue in Wire and Cable Management Business (2013-2018)12.6.5 Obo Bettermann (Germany) Recent DevelopmentContinuousFor further information on this report, visit About Us:Wise Guy Reports Is Part Of The Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. And Offers Premium Progressive Statistical Surveying, Market Research Reports, Analysis & Forecast Data For Industries And Governments Around The Globe. Wise Guy Reports Features An Exhaustive List Of Market Research Reports From Hundreds Of Publishers Worldwide. We Boast A Database Spanning Virtually Every Market Category And An Even More Comprehensive Collection Of Market Research Reports Under These Categories And Sub-Categories.Addres:WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPhone :+91 841 198 5042 Electric Insulators Market Brief Analysis By Top Key Players Elsewedy Electric, Maclean Fogg, Seves Group, TE Connectivity, NGK Insulators and Lapp Insulators Electric Insulators https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/802633/ https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/802633/ https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/electric-insulators-market https://www.marketstudyreport.com https://www.marketstudyreport.com/blog/ Market Study Report adds 2024 Global Electric Insulators market research of 600 pages supported with 1104 data tables and 14 figures profiling 18 leading Metallic Pigments industry companies. 145 kV electric insulator market will expand owing to growing demand across the primary & secondary transmission networks. Operational safety and potential to withstand mechanical load are few key features supporting product penetration.Growing demand for reliable and safe power along with rural electrification initiatives across the emerging markets will stimulate the growth of electric insulators market. Continuous research and development investment coupled with the adoption of economy of scale by product manufacturers will favor the business landscape Porcelain electric insulators market will grow owing to industry dominance and technical maturity. Minimum corrosion & leakage along with the capability to operate in extreme environment and temperature changes are the key parameters driving the product penetration.Electric Insulators Market is estimated to reach over USD 6 billion by 2024. Growing investments toward upgradation of existing infrastructure and smart grids will amplify the electric insulators market. Growing private & public spending to avail continuous power supply will further augment the industry outlook. The Asian Development Bank in 2017, announced upgradation of electrical infrastructure with funding of USD 6.5 million in Southeast Asia.Request a sample of this premium report at:UK electric insulator market is projected to grow on account of stringent energy-efficiency protocols along with rising focus toward increasing power generation capacity. Channelized funding by regulators for the efficient generation and distribution of electricity will complement the business growth.Rising installation of electric networks across industrial and commercial establishments favored by growing demand for electricity will foster the electric insulator market. In addition, government programs toward the upgradation of power grid, including smart grid development and grid energy storage will enhance the industry growth.China electric insulator market is anticipated to gain over 5% by 2024. Extensive government initiatives for the grid renovation projects along with increasing funding across the industrial & utility-based electrification systems will enhance the business landscape. Rising focus toward the development of energy-efficient equipment coupled with shifting trends for the extension of overhead electric cables will stimulate product penetration in the industry.Medium voltage electric insulators market is estimated to witness substantial growth on account of their wide application in commercial and residential establishments. Increasing commercialization coupled with power distribution reforms toward development & expansion of distribution networks will further favor the business outlook.Railways electric insulator market is predicted to expand on account of growing demand for reliable transport infrastructure network. Massive funding by the government for the extension of grid networks for developing optimized and efficient electric infrastructure will positively influence the industry outlook. Light weight, high-strength and vandal-resistance are the key product developments to ensure the uninterrupted railway signals which will further stimulate the business growth.Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report at:Notable players across the electric insulators market includes Siemens, ABB, Elsewedy Electric, Maclean Fogg, Seves Group, TE Connectivity, NGK Insulators and Lapp Insulators.Table of Content:Chapter 1. Methodology and Scope1.1. Methodology1.2. Market definitions1.3. Market estimation & forecast parameters1.4. Data Sources1.4.1. Primary1.4.2. Secondary1.4.2.1. Paid Sources1.4.2.2. Public SourcesChapter 2. Executive Summary2.1. Electric insulators industry 3600 synopsis, 2013 20242.1.1. Business trends2.1.2. Material trends2.1.3. Voltage trends2.1.4. Application trends2.1.5. Product trends2.1.6. End-Use trends2.1.7. Rating trends2.1.8. Installation trends2.1.9. Regional trendsChapter 3. Electric Insulators Industry Insights3.1. Industry segmentation3.2. Industry landscape, 2013 - 20243.3. Industry ecosystem analysis3.3.1. Vendor matrix3.4. Innovation and technology landscape3.5. Comparative analysis3.5.1. Porcelain and Composite Insulators3.6. Price trend analysis, by regionChapter 4. Electric Insulators Market, By Material4.1. Electric insulators market share by material, 2017 & 20244.2. Ceramic/Porcelain Insulators4.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2013 20244.3. Glass Insulators4.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2013 20244.4. Composite Insulators4.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2013 2024Chapter 5. Electric Insulators Market, By Voltage5.1. Electric insulators market share by voltage, 2017 & 20245.2. High Voltage5.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2013 20245.3. Medium Voltage5.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2013 20245.4. Low Voltage5.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2013 2024Chapter 6. Electric Insulators Market, By Application6.1. Electric insulators market share by application, 2017 & 20246.2. Cables and transmission lines6.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2013 - 20246.3. Switchgear6.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2013 20246.4. Transformer6.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2013 - 20246.5. Bus BarsChapter 7. Electric Insulators Market, By Product7.1. Electric insulators market share by product, 2017 & 20247.2. Pin Insulator7.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2013 20247.3. Suspension Insulator7.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2013 2024For More Detail On This Report:About Us:Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management.Contact Us:MarketStudyReport.com4 North Main Street,Selbyville, Delaware 19975USAPhone: 1-302-273-0910US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email:sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:Blog: 2024 Projections: POS Terminals Market Report For Toshiba Corporation, Squirrel Systems, Shenzhen Xinguodu, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Panasonic Corporation POS Terminals https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/467677/ https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/467677/ https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/-point-of-sale-pos-terminals-market https://www.marketstudyreport.com https://www.marketstudyreport.com/blog/ MarketStudyReport.com offers 2024 report on global POS Terminals market that evaluates industry growth trends through historical data and estimates future prospects based on comprehensive research. The report extensively provides the market share, growth, trends and forecasts for the period 2017-2024.A key challenge for the industry participants is the privacy and security concerns associated with data breaches. The non-compliance towards Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) is increasing the prospect of card data breaches, which is resulting in the financial impacts. The migration of the global payments market towards more secure chip card technology is anticipated to subdue the impact of this challenge.Request a sample of this premium report at:The rising penetration of the Internet and payment solutions, such as online payments, stationary phone and mobile payments, has given an impetus to the POS terminals market. The systems are gradually shifting towards digital format, with e-mail and electronic receipts allowing paper free transactions. In addition, increased adoption of debit and credit cards has generated a high demand for these devices. With the advancements in payment technologies, the industry is migrating towards EMV chip card payments which is anticipated to further fuel the POS terminals market momentum in the next seven years.Rise in the reasonably priced wireless communications technologies is fueling the mobile POS terminals market demand. Presence of universal wireless connectivity such as Bluetooth, and the availability of mobile card readers, scanners, printers, and other devices has driven the industry growth. This growth has encouraged retail and hospitality industries to leverage new strategies and applications to offer a seamless customer experience.The healthcare application is expected to witness high growth opportunities owing to the rising need to streamline payment practices which is determined to drive the POS terminals market demand. The systems are enabling the exchange of healthcare data which includes administrative, clinical and financial data, through a secure and safe infrastructure. With the rise in high deductible insurance plans, and the patients desire to negotiate healthcare costs in real-time it has led to an increased number of card based payments by patients thereby fueling the system installations at healthcare institutions and providing a growth impetus to the POS terminals market.The APAC POS terminals market is predicted to witness substantial growth owing to the growing usage of smartphones and the considerable unbanked population in densely inhabited countries. Increasing number of healthcare facilities coupled with the developing payment landscape is anticipated drive the demand. In addition, China and India POS terminals market are anticipated to act as an impetus in generating a demand for the systems owing to a speedy increase in the number of businesses and SMEs.Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report at:The key industry players include VeriFone Systems Inc., Toshiba Corporation, Squirrel Systems, Shenzhen Xinguodu, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Panasonic Corporation, PAX Technology, NEC Corporation, NCR Corporation, Ingenico Group, Fujian Newland and Cisco Systems, Inc. The industry is growing steadily with extensive demands, industry players are investing in R&D to gain a competitive advantage, which is anticipated to result in mergers and acquisitions. In the industry, the number of solution providers and manufacturers are likely to increase, thereby escalating industry competition in the coming years.Data TablesTABLE 1 POS terminals industry 3600 synopsis, 2012 2024TABLE 2 Global POS terminals market, by region, 2012-2024 (USD Billion)TABLE 3 Global POS terminals market, by region, 2012-2024 (Million Units)TABLE 4 Global POS terminals market, by product, 2012 - 2024 (USD Billion)TABLE 5 Global POS terminals market, by product, 2012 - 2024 (Million Units)TABLE 6 Global POS terminals market, by component, 2012 - 2024 (USD Billion)TABLE 7 Global POS terminals market, by component, 2012 - 2024 (Million Units)TABLE 8 Global POS terminals market, by technology, 2012 - 2016 (Thousand Units)TABLE 9 Global POS terminals market, by technology, 2017 - 2024 (Thousand Units)TABLE 10 Global POS terminals market, by application, 2012 - 2024 (USD Billion)TABLE 11 Global POS terminals market, by application, 2012 - 2024 (Million Units)TABLE 12 Vendor matrixTABLE 13 Industry impact forcesTABLE 14 Strategy dashboardTABLE 15 Global fixed POS terminals market, 2012 - 2024, (USD Billion)TABLE 16 Global fixed POS terminals market, 2012 - 2024, (Million Units)TABLE 17 Global fixed POS terminals market, by region, 2012 - 2024, (USD Billion)TABLE 18 Global fixed POS terminals market, by region, 2012 - 2024, (Million Units)TABLE 19 Global mobile POS terminals market, 2012 - 2024, (USD Billion)TABLE 20 Global mobile POS terminals market, 2012 - 2024, (Million Units)For More Detail on This Report:About Us:Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management.Contact Us:MarketStudyReport.com4 North Main Street,Selbyville, Delaware 19975USAPhone: 1-302-273-0910US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email:sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:Blog: Freightage Insurance Market 2018 Global Analysis By Key Players Allianz, Munich RE, AXA, Groupama, Mapfre Asistencia, CSA Travel Protection, Seven Corners Freightage Insurance Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/3432119-global-freightage-insurance-market-size-status-and-forecast-2018-2025 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/enquiry/3432119-global-freightage-insurance-market-size-status-and-forecast-2018-2025 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=3432119 WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On Freightage Insurance Market 2018 Global Analysis By Key Players Allianz, Munich RE, AXA, Groupama, Mapfre Asistencia, CSA Travel Protection, Seven Corners.Description:-This report focuses on the global Freightage Insurance status, future forecast, growth opportunity, key market and key players. The study objectives are to present the Freightage Insurance development in United States, Europe and China.In 2017, the global Freightage Insurance market size was million US$ and it is expected to reach million US$ by the end of 2025, with a CAGR of during 2018-2025.Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comThe key players covered in this studyAllianzMunich REGeneraliAXAHanse MerkurGroupamaMapfre AsistenciaAIGCSA Travel ProtectionUSI AffinitySeven CornersMH RossTokio MarineSompo JapanPingan BaoxianSTARRMarket segment by Type, the product can be split intoOcean ShippingLand TransportationAir TransportMarket segment by Application, split intoPersonalCompanyMarket segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaCentral & South AmericaEnquiry About Report @Table Of Contents Major Key Points1 Report Overview1.1 Study Scope1.2 Key Market Segments1.3 Players Covered1.4 Market Analysis by Type1.4.1 Global Freightage Insurance Market Size Growth Rate by Type (2013-2025)1.4.2 Ocean Shipping1.4.3 Land Transportation1.4.4 Air Transport1.5 Market by Application1.5.1 Global Freightage Insurance Market Share by Application (2013-2025)1.5.2 Personal1.5.3 Company1.6 Study Objectives1.7 Years Considered2 Global Growth Trends2.1 Freightage Insurance Market Size2.2 Freightage Insurance Growth Trends by Regions2.2.1 Freightage Insurance Market Size by Regions (2013-2025)2.2.2 Freightage Insurance Market Share by Regions (2013-2018)2.3 Industry Trends2.3.1 Market Top Trends2.3.2 Market Drivers2.3.3 Market Opportunities3 Market Share by Key Players3.1 Freightage Insurance Market Size by Manufacturers3.1.1 Global Freightage Insurance Revenue by Manufacturers (2013-2018)3.1.2 Global Freightage Insurance Revenue Market Share by Manufacturers (2013-2018)3.1.3 Global Freightage Insurance Market Concentration Ratio (CR5 and HHI)3.2 Freightage Insurance Key Players Head office and Area Served3.3 Key Players Freightage Insurance Product/Solution/Service3.4 Date of Enter into Freightage Insurance Market3.5 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion Plans4 Breakdown Data by Type and Application4.1 Global Freightage Insurance Market Size by Type (2013-2018)4.2 Global Freightage Insurance Market Size by Application (2013-2018)5 United States5.1 United States Freightage Insurance Market Size (2013-2018)5.2 Freightage Insurance Key Players in United States5.3 United States Freightage Insurance Market Size by Type5.4 United States Freightage Insurance Market Size by Application6 Europe6.1 Europe Freightage Insurance Market Size (2013-2018)6.2 Freightage Insurance Key Players in Europe6.3 Europe Freightage Insurance Market Size by Type6.4 Europe Freightage Insurance Market Size by Application7 China7.1 China Freightage Insurance Market Size (2013-2018)7.2 Freightage Insurance Key Players in China7.3 China Freightage Insurance Market Size by Type7.4 China Freightage Insurance Market Size by ApplicationContinuedBuy 1-user PDF @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Office No.528,Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road,Hadapsar,Pune-411028. Calrose Rice - Industry Trends, Sales, Supply, Demand, Analysis & Forecast to 2025 Calrose Rice Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/3432196-global-calrose-rice-market-insights-forecast-to-2025 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/enquiry/3432196-global-calrose-rice-market-insights-forecast-to-2025 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=3432196 WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On Calrose Rice - Industry Trends, Sales, Supply, Demand, Analysis & Forecast to 2025.Description:-This report researches the worldwide Calrose Rice market size (value, capacity, production and consumption) in key regions like North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (China, Japan) and other regions.This study categorizes the global Calrose Rice breakdown data by manufacturers, region, type and application, also analyzes the market status, market share, growth rate, future trends, market drivers, opportunities and challenges, risks and entry barriers, sales channels, distributors and Porter's Five Forces Analysis.Global Calrose Rice market size will increase to Million US$ by 2025, from Million US$ in 2017, at a CAGR of during the forecast period. In this study, 2017 has been considered as the base year and 2018 to 2025 as the forecast period to estimate the market size for Calrose Rice.Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comThis report focuses on the top manufacturers' Calrose Rice capacity, production, value, price and market share of Calrose Rice in global market. The following manufacturers are covered in this report:California Family FoodsAmerican Commodity CompanyFarmers' Rice CooperativePacific International Rice MillsDoguet's Rice Milling CompanyFar West RiceHinode RiceSun Valley RiceCalrose Rice Breakdown Data by TypeUS SourceAustralian SourceCalrose Rice Breakdown Data by ApplicationDirect EdibleDeep ProcessingCalrose Rice Production Breakdown Data by RegionUnited StatesEuropeChinaJapanOther RegionsCalrose Rice Consumption Breakdown Data by RegionNorth AmericaUnited StatesCanadaMexicoAsia-PacificChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaAustraliaIndonesiaMalaysiaPhilippinesThailandVietnamEuropeGermanyFranceUKItalyRussiaRest of EuropeCentral & South AmericaBrazilRest of South AmericaMiddle East & AfricaGCC CountriesTurkeyEgyptSouth AfricaRest of Middle East & AfricaEnquiry About Report @Table Of Contents Major Key PointsGlobal Calrose Rice Market Research Report 2018-2025, by Manufacturers, Regions, Types and Applications1 Study Coverage1.1 Calrose Rice Product1.2 Key Market Segments in This Study1.3 Key Manufacturers Covered1.4 Market by Type1.4.1 Global Calrose Rice Market Size Growth Rate by Type1.4.2 US Source1.4.3 Australian Source1.5 Market by Application1.5.1 Global Calrose Rice Market Size Growth Rate by Application1.5.2 Direct Edible1.5.3 Deep Processing1.6 Study Objectives1.7 Years Considered2 Executive Summary2.1 Global Calrose Rice Production2.1.1 Global Calrose Rice Revenue 2013-20252.1.2 Global Calrose Rice Production 2013-20252.1.3 Global Calrose Rice Capacity 2013-20252.1.4 Global Calrose Rice Marketing Pricing and Trends2.2 Calrose Rice Growth Rate (CAGR) 2018-20252.3 Analysis of Competitive Landscape2.3.1 Manufacturers Market Concentration Ratio (CR5 and HHI)2.3.2 Key Calrose Rice Manufacturers2.4 Market Drivers, Trends and Issues2.5 Macroscopic Indicator2.5.1 GDP for Major Regions2.5.2 Price of Raw Materials in Dollars: Evolution3 Market Size by Manufacturers3.1 Calrose Rice Production by Manufacturers3.1.1 Calrose Rice Production by Manufacturers3.1.2 Calrose Rice Production Market Share by Manufacturers3.2 Calrose Rice Revenue by Manufacturers3.2.1 Calrose Rice Revenue by Manufacturers (2013-2018)3.2.2 Calrose Rice Revenue Share by Manufacturers (2013-2018)3.3 Calrose Rice Price by Manufacturers3.4 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion Plans4 Calrose Rice Production by Regions4.1 Global Calrose Rice Production by Regions4.1.1 Global Calrose Rice Production Market Share by Regions4.1.2 Global Calrose Rice Revenue Market Share by Regions4.2 United States4.2.1 United States Calrose Rice Production4.2.2 United States Calrose Rice Revenue4.2.3 Key Players in United States4.2.4 United States Calrose Rice Import & Export4.3 Europe4.3.1 Europe Calrose Rice Production4.3.2 Europe Calrose Rice Revenue4.3.3 Key Players in Europe4.3.4 Europe Calrose Rice Import & Export4.4 China4.4.1 China Calrose Rice Production4.4.2 China Calrose Rice Revenue4.4.3 Key Players in China4.4.4 China Calrose Rice Import & Export4.5 Japan4.5.1 Japan Calrose Rice Production4.5.2 Japan Calrose Rice Revenue4.5.3 Key Players in Japan4.5.4 Japan Calrose Rice Import & Export4.6 Other Regions4.6.1 South Korea4.6.2 India4.6.3 Southeast Asia5 Calrose Rice Consumption by Regions5.1 Global Calrose Rice Consumption by Regions5.1.1 Global Calrose Rice Consumption by Regions5.1.2 Global Calrose Rice Consumption Market Share by Regions5.2 North America5.2.1 North America Calrose Rice Consumption by Application5.2.2 North America Calrose Rice Consumption by Countries5.2.3 United States5.2.4 Canada5.2.5 Mexico5.3 Europe5.3.1 Europe Calrose Rice Consumption by Application5.3.2 Europe Calrose Rice Consumption by Countries5.3.3 Germany5.3.4 France5.3.5 UK5.3.6 Italy5.3.7 Russia5.4 Asia Pacific5.4.1 Asia Pacific Calrose Rice Consumption by Application5.4.2 Asia Pacific Calrose Rice Consumption by Countries5.4.3 China5.4.4 Japan5.4.5 South Korea5.4.6 India5.4.7 Australia5.4.8 Indonesia5.4.9 Thailand5.4.10 Malaysia5.4.11 Philippines5.4.12 Vietnam5.5 Central & South America5.5.1 Central & South America Calrose Rice Consumption by Application5.5.2 Central & South America Calrose Rice Consumption by Countries5.5.3 Brazil5.6 Middle East and Africa5.6.1 Middle East and Africa Calrose Rice Consumption by Application5.6.2 Middle East and Africa Calrose Rice Consumption by Countries5.6.3 Turkey5.6.4 GCC Countries5.6.5 Egypt5.6.6 South AfricaContinuedBuy 1-user PDF @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Office No.528,Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road,Hadapsar,Pune-411028. Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Market Is Thriving Worldwide With HP, Inc, Cisco systems Inc, Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd, Juniper Inc, Alcatel-Lucent Inc, Allied Telesis Inc, Arista Networks Inc Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Market Size http://www.supplydemandmarketresearch.com/home/contact/50295?ref=Sample-and-Brouchure&toccode=SDMREL50295 http://www.supplydemandmarketresearch.com/home/toc_publisher/50295?code=SDMREL50295#1 Global Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Market research Report 2018 offered by Supply Demand Market Research contains a market summary of the trade that talks regarding market size, product scope, market revenue, growth opportunities, sales volumes and figures, growth estimation in returning years, current trade leaders and their sales/revenue metrics.This report includes the estimation of market size for value (million USD) and volume (K Units). Both top-down and bottom-up approaches have been used to estimate and validate the market size of Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point market, to estimate the size of various other dependent submarkets in the overall market. Key players in the market have been identified through secondary research, and their market shares have been determined through primary and secondary research. All percentage shares, splits, and breakdowns have been determined using secondary sources and verified primary sources.Request for Sample Copy of this Report @This study also analyzes the market status, market share, growth rate, future trends, market drivers, opportunities and challenges, risks and entry barriers, sales channels, distributors and Porter's Five Forces Analysis.The Major players reported in the market include: HP, Inc Cisco systems Inc Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd Juniper Inc Alcatel-Lucent Inc Allied Telesis Inc Arista Networks Inc Hirschmann Inc and MoreIndustrial Switching Hub and Access Point Breakdown Data by Type Industrial switching hubs Industrial Access PointsIndustrial Switching Hub and Access Point Breakdown Data by Application Data centers Small office or Home office (SOHO) Corporates Automation Industry Telecommunication Service provider networks Rail Intelligent Transportation Systems Smart Grid Oil & GasClick Here For More Details @Objectives of this Report are: To analyze and research the global Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point status and future forecastinvolving, production, revenue, consumption, historical and forecast. To present the key Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point manufacturers, production, revenue, market share, and recent development. To split the breakdown data by regions, type, manufacturers and applications. To analyze the global and key regions market potential and advantage, opportunity and challenge, restraints and risks. To identify significant trends, drivers, influence factors in global and regions. To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market.Table of Content:1 Study Coverage1.1 Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Product1.2 Key Market Segments in This Study1.3 Key Manufacturers Covered1.4 Market by Type1.4.1 Global Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Market Size Growth Rate by Type1.4.2 Industrial switching hubs1.4.3 Industrial Access Points1.5 Market by Application1.5.1 Global Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Market Size Growth Rate by Application2 Executive Summary2.1 Global Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Market Size2.1.1 Global Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Revenue 2013-20252.1.2 Global Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Production 2013-20252.2 Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Growth Rate (CAGR) 2018-20252.3 Analysis of Competitive Landscape2.3.1 Manufacturers Market Concentration Ratio (CR5 and HHI)2.3.2 Key Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Manufacturers3 Market Size by Manufacturers3.1 Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Production by Manufacturers3.1.1 Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Production by Manufacturers3.1.2 Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Production Market Share by Manufacturers3.2 Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Revenue by Manufacturers3.2.1 Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Revenue by Manufacturers (2013-2018)TOC Continued!Tables and Figures: Figure Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Product Picture Table Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Key Market Segments in This Study Table Key Manufacturers Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Covered in This Study Table Global Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Market Size Growth Rate by Type 2018-2025 (K Units) & (Million US$) Figure Global Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Production Market Share 2013-2025 Figure Industrial switching hubs Product Picture Table Major Manufacturers of Industrial switching hubs Figure Industrial Access Points Product Picture Table Major Manufacturers of Industrial Access Points Table Global Industrial Switching Hub and Access Point Market Size Growth Rate by Application 2018-2025 (K Units) and MoreAbout Us:We have a strong network of high powered and experienced global consultants who have about 10+ years of experience in the specific industry to deliver quality research and analysis. Having such an experienced network, our services not only cater to the client who wants the basic reference of market numbers and related high growth areas in the demand side, but also we provide detailed and granular information using which the client can definitely plan the strategies with respect to both supply and demand side.302-20 Misssisauga Valley, Missisauga, L5A 3S1, TorontoContact Us:Email- sales@supplydemandmarketresearch.comGlobal- +1-778-686-7521 Waste Heat Recovery in Oil and Gas Industry Latest Global Report 2018-2023 by Key Companies - Alstom, Siemens, Amec Foster Wheeler, Harbin Electric etc. Waste Heat Recovery in Oil and Gas Industry https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/requested_sample/8772 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/buy/waste-heat-recovery-in-oil-and-gas-market https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/enquiry_before_buying/8772 UpMarketResearch offers a latest published report on Global Waste Heat Recovery in Oil and Gas Market Analysis and Forecast 2018-2023 delivering key insights and providing a competitive advantage to clients through a detailed report. The report contains 95 pages which highly exhibit on current market analysis scenario, upcoming as well as future opportunities, revenue growth, pricing and profitability.Get FREE Exclusive PDF Sample Copy @Waste heat recovery is a process that involves capturing of heat exhausted by an existing industrial process. This waste heat is utilized for other heating applications, including power generation and other applications in different industries. There are numerous ways of recovering waste heat from industries. It is estimated that 20%-50% of industrial energy usage is eventually released as waste heat. The sources of waste heat mainly include discharge of hot combustion gases into the atmosphere and heat transfer from hot equipment exteriors. Waste heat recovery unit is normally a heat exchanger where the heat is recovered from hot streams with high energy content.Waste Heat Recovery in Oil and Gas Market Research Report is an intelligence report with meticulous efforts undertaken to study the right and valuable information. The data which has been looked upon is done considering both, the existing top players and the upcoming competitors. Business strategies of the key players and the new entering market industries are studied in detail. Well explained SWOT analysis, revenue share and contact information are shared in this report analysis.Companies profiled in this report include: Alstom Amec Foster Wheeler Dongfang Electric Harbin Electric MHPS Bono Energia China Energy Recovery Forbes Marshall Ormat Technologies SiemensBuy This Report with Best Discount @This report is segmented as below:Regional Segment Analysis North America Europe China Japan Southeast Asia IndiaProduct Segment Analysis Downstream Sector Upstream Sector Midstream SectorApplication Segment Analysis Commercial Residential OthersThis study answers to the below key questions: What will the market size be in 2023 and what will the growth rate be? What are the key market trends? What are the challenges to market growth? Who are the key players in this market? What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key players?In the end, this report covers data and information on capacity and production overview, production, market share analysis, sales overview, supply, sales, and shortage, import, export and consumption as well as cost, price, revenue and gross margin of Waste Heat Recovery in Oil and Gas Market.Customization of the Report:UpMarketResearch provides free customization of reports as per your need. This report can be personalized to meet your requirements. Get in touch with our sales team, who will guarantee you to get a report that suits your necessities.Enquire for Required Customization in this Report @About UpMarketResearch:The UpMarketResearch is a leading distributor of market research report with more than 800+ global clients. As a market research company, we take pride in equipping our clients with insights and data that holds the power to truly make a difference to their business. Our mission is singular and well-defined we want to help our clients envisage their business environment so that they are able to make informed, strategic and therefore successful decisions for themselves.Contact Info:Name: Alex MathewsEmail: alex@upmarketresearch.comOrganization: UpMarketResearchAddress: 500 East E Street, Ontario, CA 91764, United StatesPhone: +1 347-377-7033 Dental Implants Market With Companies market Share: A.B. Dental Devices Ltd, ADIN Dental Implants Systems, Avinent Implant Systems, Bicon LLC Dental Implants Market https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/2684 https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/2684 The Dental Implants Market size is set to exceed USD 5.2 billion by 2024; according to a new research report by Global Market Insights.Rising prevalence of oral health disorders such as tooth decay, periodontal disease, and dental caries across the globe will act as a primary driver for dental implants market growth. Approximately, 10-15% of the total population in the developed countries are suffering from severe periodontitis. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes are major risk factors associated with periodontitis. Such factors will stimulate demand for dental implants over the forecast period.Rapidly growing geriatric population base with tooth loss in developed regions is another major factor driving dental implants market size. Developed countries such as U.S. and Germany have huge edentulous population that increases the demand for dental implants among elderly base to replace their missing teeth.Request for a sample of this research report @Presence of supportive awareness programs such as MaxiCourses launched by American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) with an aim to educate practitioners on implant dentistry will fuel industry expansion.Rapid advancements in implant technology along with increasing demand for cosmetic surgery and dental implants to improve esthetic appeal will favor industry growth. Excessive cost associated with dental implants coupled with limited reimbursement policies in developing countries will hamper business growth.Tapered implants segment dominated the overall market with a share of over 77.5% in 2017 and is expected to show a similar trend in the future; this is attributed to advantages offered such as primary stability, maximum bone and soft tissue attachment.Titanium implants market segment valued USD 2,644.0 million in 2017 owing to its biocompatibility along with increasing usage for the fabrication of dental implants. Zirconium implants will grow at a rapid pace in the coming years owing to increasing demand for metal-free implants along with its aesthetic superiority over other implants.Dental implant business in clinics held the largest revenue in 2017 followed by hospitals. Advanced technologies offered in multi-speciality hospitals will boost the demand for dental implantation surgeries in such facilities thereby propelling segmental market size over the coming years.France dental implants market is estimated to grow at 4.2% CAGR over the forecast period due to rising elderly patient pool suffering from oral health disorders in the country. Furthermore, presence of industry players focused on dental and regenerative implant dentistry will augment regional market size.Make an inquiry for purchasing this report @Canada dental implants market was valued over USD 84.0 million in 2017 and is forecast to grow at a rapid pace in the coming years. Favorable reimbursement scenario for dental implants along with rising number of people with tooth loss will foster market size. For instance, Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction Program covers 100% of treatment costs for surgical placement of dental implants in Ontario should increase adoption rate of dental implants in the country.India dental implants market will grow at significant 7.4% CAGR over the forecast period due to increasing awareness and growing concern for oral hygiene coupled with rapidly surging geriatric edentulous population in the country. Rising dental tourism in India owing to cost-effective and affordable treatment will accelerate industry growth.Key Players:Some of the key industry players operating in global dental implants market are Straumann Group, Dentsply Sirona, Henry Schein, Danaher Corporation, Zimmer Biomet, and Osstem Implant. The industry players resort to merger and acquisition along with new product launch to expand their market foothold in the industry.Chapter 3. Dental Implants Market Industry Insights3.1. Industry segmentation3.2. Industry landscape, 2013 - 20243.3. Industry impact forces3.3.1. Growth drivers3.3.1.1. Increasing elderly population worldwide3.3.1.2. Growing prevalence of dental disorders across the globe3.3.1.3. Rising demand for cosmetic dentistry in North America and Europe3.3.1.4. Advancement in implant technology in developed countries3.3.2. Industry pitfalls & challenges3.3.2.1. Limited reimbursement policies3.3.2.2. High cost of dental implant treatment3.4. Growth potential analysis3.4.1. By product3.4.2. By material3.4.3. By end-use3.5. Regulatory landscape3.5.1. U.S.3.5.2. Europe3.5.3. China3.6. Reimbursement scenario3.7. Porter's analysis3.8. Competitive landscape, 20173.8.1. Strategy dashboard3.9. PESTEL analysisGlobal Market Insights Inc. is a global market research and management consulting company catering to leading corporations, non-profit organizations, universities and government institutions. Our main goal is to assist and partner organizations to make lasting strategic improvements and realize growth targets. Our industry research reports are designed to provide granular quantitative information, combined with key industry insights, aimed at assisting sustainable organizational development.Global Market Insights, Inc.4 North Main StreetSelbyville, Delaware 19975 USAPhone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email:sales@gminsights.com Embolic Protection Devices Market is likely to show significant growth Top Companies are: Abbott Laboratories, Boston Scientific, Cardinal Health, Medtronic, Gore Medical Embolic Protection Devices Market https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/2417 https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/2417 The Embolic Protection Devices Market size is set to exceed USD 1.8 billion by 2024; according to a new research study published by Global Market Insights, Inc.Rising prevalence of cardiac diseases along with shift towards minimally invasive procedures is likely to stimulate embolic protection devices market growth. According to American Heart Association, cardiovascular diseases are identified to be the most common cause of death globally, claiming more than 17 million deaths in 2013. Citing this, various companies strive to enter the market by developing devices to protect brain injuries during various cardiac procedures.Request for a sample of this research report @The demand for embolic protection devices is predominantly driven by the increasing adoption of minimally invasive heart procedures such as carotid artery stenting and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Moreover, growing awareness among physicians regarding risks of brain injuries during cardiovascular interventions should drive the market penetration of embolic protection devices.Increasing aging population has further contributed to rise in number of cardiovascular disease deaths globally. According to estimates, the percentage of population aged 60 and above is likely to reach to 1.6 billion by 2050. Since, aging is one of the significant factors responsible for cardiovascular diseases, the potential patient pool serves as a huge market opportunity for embolic protection devices in the coming years.Top Companies:Prominent industry players include Abbott Laboratories, Cardinal Health, Medtronic, Boston Scientific, Gore Medical, Claret Medical, Allium Medical, Innovative Cardiovascular Solutions, Edward Lifesciences, and Transverse Medical among others. In order to further strengthen its competitive advantage, the market players are investing into research and development of embolic protection devices for expanded clinical applications such as cerebral emboli protection and lower extremities procedures.Regional Analysis:U.S. dominated the embolic protection devices market in 2016. The largest share of the region should be attributed to increasing aging population. People aged 65 and above are set to increase to 20% of U.S. population in 2030 from 13% in 2000. In addition, increased adoption of new technologies to reap immediate benefits and favorable reimbursement scenario should further propel embolic protection devices market.Japan was the largest embolic protection devices market in Asia Pacific region, followed by China and India in 2016. India and China are likely to witness lucrative growth during forecast period owing to rapid developments in healthcare infrastructure, increasing income levels, and presence of large patient pool of cardiovascular diseases.Make an inquiry for purchasing this report @Chapter 3. Embolic Protection Devices Industry Insights3.1 Industry segmentation3.2 Industry size and forecast, 2013 2024 (USD Million)3.3 Industry impact forces3.3.1 Growth drivers3.3.1.1 Growing geriatric population in China and Japan3.3.1.2 Increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in developing countries3.3.1.3 Rising awareness regarding cardiac diseases in U.S.3.3.1.4 Technological advancements in embolic protection devices3.3.1.5 Growing preference for minimally invasive procedures3.3.2 Industry pitfalls & challenges3.3.2.1 Availability of alternative therapies3.3.2.2 Stringent regulatory framework3.4 Growth Potential Analysis3.4.1 By Product3.4.2 By Application3.5 Regulatory landscape3.5.1 U.S.3.5.2 Europe3.5.3 China3.6 Competitive Benchmarking, 20163.6.1 Strategy dashboard3.7 Porters analysis3.8 PESTEL analysisGlobal Market Insights Inc. is a global market research and management consulting company catering to leading corporations, non-profit organizations, universities and government institutions. Our main goal is to assist and partner organizations to make lasting strategic improvements and realize growth targets. Our industry research reports are designed to provide granular quantitative information, combined with key industry insights, aimed at assisting sustainable organizational development.Global Market Insights, Inc.4 North Main StreetSelbyville, Delaware 19975 USAPhone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email:sales@gminsights.com Which laws require employers to give family leave? Both state and federal law require certain employers to provide family leave to their employees: the Oregon Family Leave Act (OFLA), the Oregon Military Family Leave Act (OMFLA) and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA). OFLA applies to employers with 25 or more employees in Oregon. When can an employee take family leave? Although there are a few exceptions, OFLA and FMLA generally provide 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year and OMFLA provides for 14 days of unpaid leave per deployment for the following purposes: For the birth, adoption or foster care placement of a child (parental leave). To care for a family member with a serious health condition or the employees own serious health condition (serious health condition leave). For pregnancy disability or prenatal care (pregnancy disability leave). To care for a sick child who does not have a serious health condition, but requires home care, known as sick child leave (OFLA only). To care for an employee's child whose school or child care provider has been closed in conjunction with a statewide public health emergency declared by a public health official. To care for a seriously ill or injured service member or veteran (26 weeks) (FMLA only). Because of a qualifying exigency arising out of a family member being on or called to active military duty (FMLA only). Because of a spouse or same-gender domestic partner being called to or on leave from active military duty (OMFLA only). Bereavement leave is two weeks of leave to make funeral arrangements, attend the funeral or to grieve a family member who has passed away (OFLA only). Who is eligible to take family leave? To be eligible for OFLA parental leave only, employees must be on the job at least 180 days. For all other OFLA leave benefits, workers must be employed at least 180 days and also work at least an average of 25 hours a week during the 180 days before leave begins. The Oregon Military Family Leave Act requires covered employers to grant leave to employees who have worked an average of at least 20 hours per week, but the law does not specify a period of time for applying the average, nor does it require any particular length of service as do OFLA (180 days) and FMLA (12 months). To be eligible for FMLA leave, an employee must have worked for a covered employer for at least 12 months (not necessarily consecutive) and during the 12 months immediately preceding the leave must have worked at least 1,250 hours. Also, the employer must have 50 employees within a 75 mile radius of the employees worksite for the employee to be FMLA eligible. How is an employee's job protected during a leave? With some subtle differences between OFLA and FMLA, employers must return employees to their former jobs or to equivalent jobs if the former positions no longer exist. How much leave can an employee take? With some notable exceptions, employees are entitled to 12 weeks within any one-year period. That exhausts the FMLA leave entitlement except for military caregivers leave, which can extend to 26 weeks in one leave year. Under OFLA, an employee may take up to 12 weeks of pregnancy disability leave in addition to the 12 weeks available for any OFLA purpose. Either parent who has taken a full 12 weeks of parental leave (e.g., to care for a newborn, newly adopted child or newly placed foster child) are also entitled to take up to an additional 12 weeks leave to care for a child with a non-serious health condition requiring home care. How much time is available for sick child leave? Generally, OFLA provides up to a total of 12 weeks in a given leave year. Time taken for other qualifying reasons will usually reduce the amount of time available to take for sick child leave. (Leave for pregnancy disability or parental leave are potential exceptions.) What kind of notice is required? Employees may generally be required to give written notice to the employer up to 30 days in advance of OFLA leave. However, if the need for leave is unforeseen or an emergency, you may require notice as soon as it is practicable and not later than 24 hours after beginning leave. Employer may also require written notice by the employee within three days of the employee's return to work. Employees who fail to give appropriate notice may be subject to discipline under a uniformly applied leave policy . While you may discipline employees for failure to comply with your usual policy for providing notice of the need for leave, ensure that such discipline would also apply to employees requesting other types of leave (meaning, the policy does not discriminate against employees taking OFLA or FMLA leave only.) Care should be exercised whenever disciplining an employee in connection with the use of protected leave. When in doubt, best practice is to consult with legal counsel. What documentation can we require from employees who request sick child leave? OFLA generally allows employers to require medical verification of the need for sick child leave upon the fourth or any subsequent use of sick child leave in the year. If sick child leave is taken to care for a child whose school or child care provider is closed because of COVID-19, medical certification is unnecessary, but you may require the employee to provide: The name of the child being cared for; The name of the school or child care provider that has closed or become unavailable; A statement affirming that no other family member is willing and able to care for the child; and With the care of a child older than 14 during daylight hours, a statement that special circumstances exist requiring the employee to provide care. For employees eligible for Oregon sick time, you should not request documentation until after the third consecutive scheduled workday of sick time leave, unless the need is foreseeable and anticipated to last beyond three work days. Sick time rules do allow for verification requests if there is evidence of abuse, including patterns of absenteeism. My employee has a child whose school is moving to online instruction students are expected to complete assignments at home. Is that closed? Yes. If access to the physical location where the child receives instruction or care is closed to the child on account of COVID-19, the school or child care provider is closed for purposes of OFLA sick child leave. This is true even if instruction is being provided online or whether, through another format such as distance learning, the child is still expected or required to complete assignments. My employee's childs school has moved to a hybrid model with some days of online instruction and other day of in school instruction Does OFLA sick child leave apply on the days the child needs to be home? Yes, OFLA sick child leave is available on an intermittent basis for the times the childs school or place of care is closed in conjunction with COVID19. Closed here includes ongoing or intermittent, full-day and partial-day and recurring periods during which physical access to their school or place of care is restricted for that child. What are the principal differences between OFLA and FMLA? OFLA applies to employers with 25 or more employees in Oregon in the current or previous year. To qualify for protected leave, employees must have been employed for at least 180 calendar days immediately preceding the date the leave begins (this includes all days the employee is maintained on the payroll) and have worked an average of 25 hours a week (except for parental leave, when no weekly average is required). FMLA applies to employers with 50 or more employees in the current or previous year. To be eligible for FMLA leave, employees must have worked for the employer for at least 12 months (not necessarily consecutive), and have worked at least 1,250 hours during the 12-month period immediately preceding the leave. Also, the employer must have 50 employees within a 75 mile radius of the employees worksite for the employee to be FMLA eligible. OFLA also has a greatly expanded list of family members compared to FMLA. FMLA only provides for protected time off for the serious health condition of the employee or his or her spouse, child or parent (or one standing in the place of a parent or child of the employee). OFLA also extends to grandparents and grandchildren, parents-in-law, same-gender domestic partners and children and parents of same-gender domestic partners. OFLA (but not FMLA) has sick child leave (non-serious health condition requiring home care) and the additional allotment of leave following pregnancy disability leave and sick child leave following 12 weeks of parental leave. FMLA (but not OFLA) has military caregiver leave and qualifying exigency leave. OFLA (but not FMLA) has bereavement leave which is the leave to make funeral arrangements, attend the funeral or to grieve a family member who has passed away. This leave is limited to two weeks and must be completed within 60 days of the date when the employee learned of the death. Bereavement leave will count toward the total amount of OFLA eligible leave. If I am covered by both OFLA and FMLA, which law do I follow? As with all laws pertaining to employment, the employer must follow the law most beneficial to the employee. Example: OFLA includes parents-in-law in its definition of family members, but FMLA does not. Employers covered by both laws must provide leave for employees who wish to care for their parents-in-law. Because this kind of leave is not covered under FMLA, the employer cannot count it against the employees FMLA entitlement, and the employee will still have an additional 12 weeks of FMLA leave. If employers are covered by both OFLA and FMLA, does that mean they are required to give 24 weeks of leave, instead of 12 weeks, in a year? Generally, no. OFLA provides that leave counted as FMLA is also counted as OFLA if it is also an OFLA qualifying circumstance, if the employer was covered by both laws and if the employee was eligible under both laws at the time the leave was taken. Therefore, if an employee needs 10 weeks to care for a parent with a serious health condition, the 10 weeks are counted against both OFLA and FMLA leave entitlements, and the employee has two weeks of leave left in the year. There are a few situations, however, such as sick child leave and leave to care for a parent-in-law, grandparent or grandchild with a serious health condition, in which OFLA provides for leave and FMLA does not, so it is not possible to count the leave toward the FMLA entitlement. In such cases, an employer might be required to grant more than 12 weeks of leave in a year. Conversely, some FMLA circumstances do not necessarily qualify under OFLA. It is also common for an employee to become OFLA eligible after 180 days but still not be FMLA eligible until 12 months has passed. Any intervening use of OFLA leave will keep the FMLA entitlement intact pending FMLA eligibility. Are both parents entitled to a full 12 weeks of parental leave? Yes, under OFLA, but not under FMLA if the parents are married. OFLA employers are not required to allow both parents to take parental leave at the same time, but each can take the full 12 weeks. OFLA states that family members working for the same employer may not take family leave at the same time unless one of the employees is suffering from a serious health condition, the child is suffering from a serious health condition, or the employer allows the taking of concurrent leave. Example: XYZ Corporation employs both the mother and father of a newborn child. Although parental leave can be taken any time within a year of birth, both parents would prefer to take parental leave during the 12 weeks immediately following the birth. The employer can require the parents to take leave consecutively instead of concurrently. FMLA allows the employees to take parental leave concurrently, but limits married parents to a combined total of 12 weeks. In dual coverage situations, employers must apply the law most favorable to the employee, such that the married parents could take a combined total of 12 weeks concurrently (FMLA), after which they could take the balance of the 12 weeks each has remaining, but separately if the employer requires it (OFLA). Must the employer tell the employee that time off is being designated as family leave? OFLA and FMLA require employers to notify employees in writing of their eligibility to take family leave within 5 business days of a request for leave or the acquisition of enough information to determine that leave may be for a qualifying purpose. FMLA requires notice of rights and responsibilities to be sent with the notice of eligibility. When the employer has enough information to determine whether the leave will qualify under FMLA, the employer must notify the employee in writing within 5 business days. The United States Department of Labor provides employers with forms for these purposes. Call 503-326-3057 for more information. Must the employer compensate the employee during the leave? There is no requirement that family leave be paid by the employer. However, the employee must be allowed to use any existing accrued paid leave, including sick leave, vacation leave or any paid leave offered in lieu of vacation leave. Note: Employers can also require that employees uses accrued paid leave during OFLA leave, and can dictate the order in which the leave is to be used as long as to do so is consistent with a collective bargaining agreement or other written agreement between the eligible employee and the covered employer or an employer policy, and if (a) Prior to the commencement of OFLA leave, the employer provides written notice to the employee that accrued paid leave is to be used during OFLA leave; or (b) Within five (5) business days of the employee's notice of unforeseeable leave, the employer provides written notice to the employee. OMFLA is the opposite. The employee is entitled to use accrued paid leave and may dictate the order in which it is used. When the leave has been completed, is the employee entitled to return to his or her job? FMLA states that an employee returning from leave is entitled to his or her former job or an equivalent job. OFLA states that an employee returning from leave is entitled to the former job, or to an available equivalent job if the former job has been eliminated. Employers covered under both OFLA and FMLA must therefore allow the employee on leave to return to the former job, if that job still exists. Can an absence due to a Workers Compensation claim also be counted as family leave? Assuming the absence qualifies as a serious health condition, the answer is yes under FMLA. The answer is no under OFLA, unless the employee refuses a suitable offer of light duty or modified employment. Yes, if it meets the definition of a serious health condition under OFLA or FMLA. In dual coverage situations, the employees FMLA entitlement will be reduced by the workers compensation absence, but the OFLA entitlement will remain intact unless the employee refuses a light duty position. If an employer grants a family leave for a condition that is also a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (as amended) and Oregon disability law, is there any further accommodation required once the leave period has ended? Department of Corrections Welcome to the Oregon Department of Corrections This page is an abbreviated resource for the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OPSW). Those interested in a more in-depth look at the history of the Plan are encouraged to search the digital files of the Oregon State Library. Mission Restoring our native fish populations and the aquatic systems that support them to productive and sustainable levels that will provide substantial environmental, cultural, and economic benefits. Background Salmon have great cultural, economic, and recreational importance to Oregonians and are important indicators of watershed health. In response to listings of various salmon species under the federal Endangered Species Act, and with broad support and participation from all sectors and regions of the state, the Oregon Legislature and Governor Kitzhaber established the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds in 1997. OPSW quickly developed into an unprecedented statewide program to preserve and benefit from Oregon's natural legacy. The Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds organized specific actions, or measures, around the factors that contributed to the decline in fish populations and watershed health. Most of these actions focused on improvement of water quality and quantity and habitat restoration. Landowners and other private citizens, community organizations, interest groups, and all levels of government came together to organize, fund, and implement these measures. Watershed councils and soil and water conservation districts have led efforts in many watersheds. The four elements of the Plan: Voluntary restoration actions by private landowners Coordinated state and federal agency and tribal actions Monitoring watershed health, water quality, and salmon recovery Strong scientific oversight by the Independent Multidisciplinary Science Team (IMST) Independent Multidisciplinary Science Team (IMST) The IMST was established by the Oregon Legislature and Governor John Kitzhaber on March 25, 1997. Through Executive Order 99-01, Governor Kitzhaber expanded the scope of the Oregon Plan and specified the continued role of IMST in the recovery of wild salmonids in Oregon. The Team developed a conceptual scientific framework for the recovery of depressed stocks of wild salmonids in Oregon, first in relation to Oregon's forest practices and then covering all land uses and fish management. During the 2001 Oregon Legislative Assembly, additional direction was given to the Oregon Plan and IMST. The Team was not funded for the 2015-2017 biennium and was abolished with the passage of Senate Bill 202 on January 1, 2017. To view IMST documents, please search the Oregon State Library. Monitoring for the Oregon Plan After the creation of the Oregon Plan, OWEB and other state natural resource agencies coordinated development of a statewide monitoring program for the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds. When you buy a salmon license plate, a portion of the fees are invested by the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board in activities that protect or restore native salmon habitat, and by Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to support fish habitat restoration in state parks. To purchase a salmon plate, visit the Oregon DMV. A weekly collection of new hires, transitions, promotions and award winners in Oregon and southwest Washington: MOVES/HIRES: The Museum at Warm Springs board of directors has appointed Elizabeth Woody as executive director. Woody will succeed Carol Leone who had been with the museum since 2002 and is retiring at the end of November. Woody is a renowned poet, author, essayist and visual artist. She is also an educator, mentor, collaborator and community leader. Woody earned a Master of Public Administration degree through Portland State University, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanities from The Evergreen State College. Kirsten Fanning has been hired as the business growth mentor and analysis program manager in the Carson College of Business at Washington State University Vancouver. Fanning graduated from WSU Vancouver with a bachelor's degree in business administration focused in management information systems. Artists Repertory Theatre has hired J.S. May who will join artistic director Damaso Rodriguez in leadership of the company as managing director. May's focus is strategic management and fundraising and his experience includes his most recent role as chief fundraising, marketing and communications officer, and strategist for the Portland Art Museum. Portland Parks & Recreation's Vicente Harrison has been promoted to security and emergency manager for the Portland Park Ranger program. Harrison joined the PP&R team in 2012 as a seasonal park ranger. He went on to earn a permanent ranger position, and in 2016 was promoted to park ranger supervisor. Tonkon Torp partner Christopher Pallanch has been elected president of the Oregon Chapter of the Federal Bar Association for the 2018-2019 term. Radisson RED Portland Downtown announces the appointment of general manager Luca Merino and director of sales and marketing Gregory Heinze. Merino's career in hospitality spans 20 years beginning when he interned in communications and operations for Disney. Heinze joins Radisson with more than 12 years in Portland's hotel industry. Recently he worked as the director of transient sales at The Benson Hotel. Living Room Realty, specializing in Portland, Vancouver, and the North Oregon Coast properties, welcomes Matt Guy as managing principal broker. Guy has been a real estate broker since 2004 and is Earth Advantage certified. He is Oregon native and graduated from University of Oregon with a degree in English. Mark Turney is the new public affairs officer for the Umpqua National Forest. Turney will replace Cheryl Caplan, retiring on October 31, after 23 years as the Forest's representative with media, legislative affairs, and public groups. Tara Moss is the new managing director for R/GA of Portland. Moss will lead the Portland office in partnership with the existing leadership team to build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing clients. Tara comes to R/GA from Dentsu Aegis Network. Skanska USA of Portland, a construction and development company, has announced six hires in various positions for its building operations. Cary Johnson Nicole DiGangi Colter Rodman Kevin O'Hara Darcie Dunn Ryan Lamb Have a new hire, promotion or business award to share? Email us at business@oregonian.com, and put Attention: Business Movers in the subject line. The good news: Alaska Airlines will now allow miniature horses on its planes. Like, in the cabin. The bad news: You probably can't pet them because they have to be trained service animals. Several airlines, including United and Delta, have tightened rules this year on what kind of emotional support animals are allowed to fly with passengers. Seattle-based Alaska Airlines revised its rules in April to require documentation for emotional support animals that included animal health and behavioral documents, as well as a signed note from a medical doctor or mental health professional and at least 48 hours advance notice. However, the airline again narrowed its policy Sunday. Now, only dogs and cats are allowed on board as emotional support animals, and still must come with the required documentation. For people who require a trained service animal for a physical or psychiatric disability, the restrictions are a little looser. They may still bring dogs and cats. But they can also bring miniature horses. The pint-sized equines are usually about 3 feet tall and are bred to be friendly with people. They are most often used to help people who are blind or visually impaired. Alaska said in April that about 150 emotional support and service animals fly every day. -- Molly Harbarger mharbarger@oregonian.com 503-294-5923 @MollyHarbarger UPDATED 10:55 a.m.: Both missing children have been found safe, according to Vancouver police. They've both returned to their families, the agency said. *** Vancouver police are asking for help finding a pair of missing children. Miriam Smith, 12, and Colby Bott, 13, had reportedly been seen together in the areas of LeRoy Haagen Memorial Park and Northeast 136th Avenue and 28th Street, according to police. Smith was reported missing about 10 p.m. Tuesday, and Bott was reported missing shortly thereafter. Smith is 5-foot-3 and 90 lbs. She has brown hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a camouflage hoodie and jeans. Bott is 5-foot-4 and 104 lbs. He has brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen in a black or gray hoodie and dark sweatpants. Police ask anyone who knows either child's location to call 911. -- Jim Ryan In May, a cyclist was riding on Naito Parkway when a driver cut in front of him and stopped, leaving no option but to slam into the vehicle and hope for the best. The bike was a goner. The rider: scraped up, but OK. Emergency responders did a double take when they saw the cyclist's name: Will Naito. Naito was riding in the early evening May 6 on the protected bikeway known as Better Naito, a seasonal effort that dedicates one northbound travel lane to a two-way separated bike and pedestrian pathway during the summer and waterfront festival seasons. The 34-year-old Portland native, a daily bike commuter, was keeping an eye out for other cyclists and pedestrians meandering to and from the waterfront Cinco de Mayo festivities. "I didn't have my radar tuned to Chryslers," he quipped. Later this month, the Portland City Council is expected to decide where the protected bike path falls on its list of priorities for $30 million in transit and safety projects to complete in the downtown and inner eastside in the next five years. And at least two Naitos say it is time to make the bike path permanent. Will Naito, who works in commercial real estate with his dad, Bob, said the plastic wands used to temporarily separate riders from traffic are confusing. "I enjoy using it and I think it's a wonderful addition," he said. "I would certainly be open to an elevated cycle track," he added. Will Naito is an avid bike commuter who uses the seasonal bike path on the waterfront road named for his grandfather. Naito was one of many cyclists who experienced or walked away after a close call on the occasional bike lane on the key downtown street named for his late grandfather, Bill, a titan of Portland business, civic and philanthropic life. Last month, one Portland cyclist tweeted harrowing helmet camera video of a car driving with no headlights at night up the protected bike path. The city mistakenly removed the bike lane ahead of schedule on Sept. 21, causing some users to briefly ride against traffic during the morning rush hour only to learn they were no longer protected from oncoming cars. Dylan Rivera, a city transportation spokesman, confirmed the agency had heard of several crashes and near misses this year. In Naito's case, a car was driving adjacent to him in the other travel lane when it turned right into the Better Naito path through a gap in the plastic wands. The car turned sharply without signaling, and Naito said he had no time to stop. Rivera said in an email that the city was still tweaking its plans for a potential $4 million permanent fix: "We made adjustments to the project throughout the summer, and those adjustments and observations about crashes will inform design of a permanent facility." Bill Naito talks during the 1st session of Pacific Rim Economic Conference in the Smith Ballroom at Portland State University in 1996. The design hasn't been finalized, but it would likely include a raised concrete median between the northbound travel lane and the path. A pedestrian path would be elevated in some sections. But the city's current proposal doesn't call for carving the path through the park itself. Andrew Hoan, president of the Portland Business Alliance, is also calling for a permanent solution to the bike path. Hoan, who was just hired in March, said he biked to work about half of the time, and he used Better Naito this year. A separated bike and pedestrian path make for an enjoyable riding experience, but Hoan said removing a travel lane for automobiles had a negative effect on drivers and also didn't maximize safety for bikes and pedestrians. "Clearly putting this into the green space and protecting it from the roadway is the best and safest way," Hoan said. That plan would be far costlier. Naito said he would be "strongly opposed" to removing trees from the park, calling them a "marquee feature of the park and the city." He said while it also wasn't ideal to remove the travel lane, it's still better than the temporary plastic wands. Bob Naito said he originally was grumpy about the arrival of the seasonal bike path, but he now believes it is a good thing and has minimal effect on his commute. What he didn't expect, he said, is his father, Bob's, transformation on the Better Naito issue. Bob, who drives up Naito Parkway every morning on the way to work, said he was "pretty grumpy" when the lane project first popped up in 2015. "I thought it was all propaganda that it was only going to add 20 seconds [to my commute]," he said of the city's talking points that the lane didn't affect travel times. But after several years of seeing it in action, he's a convert. He said he's no longer grumpy. "It doesn't bother my morning commute at all. If I'm delayed 20 seconds I'll gladly do that for all those cyclists." -- Andrew Theen atheen@oregonian.com 503-294-4026 @andrewtheen Late night and early morning southbound Vancouver commuters on Interstate 5 will be detoured to SR 14 Wednesday and Thursday nights. The Interstate Bridge will be close for inspection and maintenance work from 9:30 p.m. - 5 a.m. Wednesday and Thursday, Oct 3 and 4. The Oregon Department of Transportation has been doing annual inspection and maintenance work on both bridge spans, but this week it's southbound's turn for long delays. All overnight traffic heading south on I-5 will be diverted to SR 14 and then onto I-205 to head into Oregon. Work should wrap up by 5 a.m. and lanes should reopen southbound, but if there are any delays, early drivers could see long backups. Currently, work that has only closed a lane or two on I-5 in Vancouver has already caused backups over the past two weeks - sometimes extending into the 6 a.m. hour. The sidewalk on the southbound span will also be closed. Pedestrians and bicyclists can use the northbound span to cross the bridge during those hours. *** NORTH PORTLAND 8:17 a.m.; Police are heading to a reported crash on North Columbia Blvd at Argyle Way. *** NORTHEAST PORTLAND 8:11 a.m.; Crash reported on Northeast Sandy Boulevard near 96th Avenue. *** CLACKAMAS 8 a.m.; A crash involving a school bus is blocking a lane on eastbound OR 224, just west of I-205. Update 8:43 a.m.; Cleared. *** SUNSET HIGHWAY 7:02 a.m.; Crash blocks the left lane of U.S. 26 eastbound at the zoo. Update 7:25 a.m.; Cleared to right shoulder. *** HILLSBORO 6:50 a.m.; A crash is blocking the northbound lanes of Northwest Glencoe Road where it crosses over U.S. 26 (Sunset Highway). *** Road work in Lake Oswego has the outer southbound lane on State Street (OR 43) at D Avenue closed all hours and days through October 5. Crews are building a curb ramp and repaving the area. Road work in the Aloha area has caused delays on Southwest 185th Avenue, between Jay Street and Ewen Drive. Drivers should expect lane closures all hours and days through Thursday, Oct. 4. Slow down in work zones. Check back throughout the morning for the latest commuting updates and follow us on Twitter: @trafficportland Oregon's largest school district was besieged by unspecified technical difficulties Tuesday that rendered its website, email and phones temporarily useless. The glitch happened sometime in the afternoon. School officials sent a message out to families to warn them of the problem. Spokesman Harry Esteve said outages were intermittent and everything was coming back online before 5 p.m. Tuesday. Portland Public Schools, via Twitter, said the matter is not limited to the school district. "The internet outage is an external issue that is affecting areas up and down the West Coast. Land lines and cameras at school campuses are working," the tweet said. Bethany Barnes Got a tip about Portland Public Schools? Email Bethany: bbarnes@oregonian.com A top cardiologist at Oregon Health & Science University will step down from his leadership position by the end of the year. Dr. Sanjiv Kaul, who helped start the Knight Cardiovascular Institute and serves as its director, announced Tuesday that he began transitioning out of his administrative role in September of last year and recently decided to solidify an end date. The move comes as the cardiology department is undergoing an internal review of its culture and employment practices that launched in the past few days. That's in addition to the external review OHSU requested after most of its heart transplant doctors quit. There is no timeframe yet for when the reviews will conclude. Kaul will only conduct research after Dec. 31. Sharon Anderson, dean of OHSU's School of Medicine, will serve as interim director after that point. An OHSU statement said Kaul will work with Anderson, Joaquin Cigarroa, clinical chief of the institute, and Nabil Alkayed, director of research at the institute, to strengthen the institute and rebuild the heart transplant program. Oregon's only heart transplant program was decimated by turnover this summer with the departures of four cardiologists and one heart surgeon. That prompted the university to suspend the program indefinitely. OHSU officials have said they are trying to recruit cardiologists to join the heart transplant program. Hospitals in a similar situations have sometimes taken years to rebuild. In the meantime, Providence Heart Institute has taken on many of OHSU's patients who have advanced heart failure. The 20 patients on Oregon's waitlist have transferred to lists in Seattle or San Francisco. Some have chosen not to transfer. The Knight Cardiovascular Institute was started in 2012 with a $125 million gift from Phil and Penny Knight. It was the largest contribution in OHSU's history. Today, there are 555 doctors, nurses and researchers who work in the cardiovascular field at OHSU. -- Molly Harbarger mharbarger@oregonian.com 503-294-5923 @MollyHarbarger By Monica Hesse The Washington Post A man emailed recently in response to something I'd written about street harassment. He was so glad, he said, that his college-age daughter never experienced anything like that. Less than a day later, he wrote again. They had just talked. She told him she'd been harassed many, many times - including that week. She hadn't ever shared this, because she wanted to protect him from her pain. For all the stereotypes that linger about women being too fragile or emotional, these past weeks have revealed what many women already knew: A lot of effort goes into protecting men we love from bad things that happen to us. And a lot of fathers are closer to bad things than they'll ever know. "Two of my daughters have told me stories that I had never heard before about things that happened to them in high school," Fox News anchor Chris Wallace mused on air last Thursday, as he urged skeptical viewers to carefully consider the testimony of Christine Blasey Ford. If you are a father who hasn't heard these stories, that doesn't mean they don't exist. They've been pouring into my inbox almost every day. To the father of the young woman who was assaulted by the student athlete she was hired to tutor: She never told you because she didn't want to break your heart. But she told me, in a long email, because the memory of it was breaking her own heart and she'd spent five years replaying it. To the father of the junior high student who was pinned down and undressed at a gathering 30 years ago: She didn't tell you because she didn't want to see you cry. But she told me that she still remembers every detail. To the father of the teenager who was raped at a party. You don't know about this, because she was certain that if you knew, you would kill her attacker and go to prison, and it would be her fault. To the father of the son who was assaulted by an older man: I wish I could tell you more about what happened to him, but he wouldn't tell me, and he definitely won't tell you, because manliness is important to you, he says. To all the fathers of all the silent victims: Your children are quietly carrying these stories, not because they can't handle their emotions but because they're worried that you can't. They are worried that your emotions will have too many consequences. Or they fear you won't think of them the same way. Or that you'll be distraught because you didn't protect them. What's your #WhyIDidn'tReportIt? In the days since Christine Blasey Ford told the Senate Judiciary Committee about her alleged assault in the early 1980s by now-Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, women - and some men - have been coming forward with their own accounts of sexual abuse and harassment. Calls have been pouring into victim-support centers, people have written columns about their experiences and many have turned to Twitter to share their stories, explaining their reluctance to go to authorities under the hashtag #WhyIDidn'tReportIt. For some, the conversation has been eye-opening - a window into a reality they never knew existed. For others, it's been affirmation that they are not alone. And still others are unconvinced about the truth or pervasiveness of such assaults. We believe the conversation should continue, with local voices to show that this problem is neither isolated nor unique to any region, generation, race or gender. We welcome readers to submit their personal stories to us at . Typically, we require full names for published letters, but in this case, we will publish anonymous letters. If letter writers do not wish to use their names, we do request age and an identifier of where they live - Northeast Portland, Salem, Vancouver, Wash., etc. Please limit letters to 250 words or less. Letters may be edited for clarity, length or to remove identifying information. - The Oregonian/OregonLive Editorial Board "It meant I would have to talk about something sexual," one woman wrote me, about why it took her decades to tell her father about an assault at a pool party when she was 10. "And that was a completely taboo subject." I have been thinking lately about taboos, and how many of them exist because women don't want to make men uncomfortable with lady pain - a broad spectrum that includes cramps, breast-feeding, the viscera of childbirth, the achiness of menstruation. Some grown men still react to tampons as if they're grenades, and as a result, many grown women still furtively pass them between ourselves in shadowy corridors, so nobody else feels awkward. It's silly, and we must know this at some level. But if the mention of Tampax makes a man need a fainting couch, is it any wonder we decide he's not ready to hear messier stories? A dear friend shared this week that she was repeatedly molested as a kid. She's fine now, she said. The only reason she hadn't spoken up publicly was because her father still didn't know; it would devastate him. She saw the irony in this - that even in her own recovery, she had been concerned with shielding a man from agony. "But Lord, my dad's done an awful lot for me," she wrote. "And I can and will do this for him." This makes sense to me. All of us want to protect our loved ones from painful information. I don't want this woman's father to have to deal with it either. But when I think of my friend's valiant secrecy, I want to cry. So, to the rest of you: If you can tell your father in a way that feels safe, and in a way that would bring you comfort, tell your father. Tell your brothers. Let them be uncomfortable; let them share some of your pain. Don't let them be ignorant. If your fathers are going to form beliefs about how victims should act and what perpetrators look like, then force your father to deal with the complication of making those assumptions about someone he loves. And if you yourself are a father, and you believe this would never happen to your daughter - how do you know? She might not have told you. But she has told me. A 50-something woman called me this week. She told me her father was the parent she always wanted to impress; disappointing him was the worst thing she could imagine. That's what was in her mind 40 years ago when a group of neighborhood boys lured her into a house and assaulted her, one of them watching the door, two of them digitally penetrating her. She was thinking about how she didn't want to disappoint her father. Last week, this woman began feeling like her dad couldn't really know who she was unless she told him about the attack. She called him, and the story came out in a tumble. On the telephone that day, she says, he spoke to her in his "dad voice." Not the adult tone he usually used when they talked now. But in the voice of her childhood, comforting and parental. In his dad voice, he told her she didn't have to share the whole story with him now. But when she was ready, he wanted to listen. -- Monica Hesse is a columnist for The Washington Post's Style section and author of "American Fire." According to a Sept. 26 Oregonian/OregonLive story, "Buehler says he would use the power of the office and sway of state funding to hold schools accountable and insist on results. Brown says she would not tie funding to mandates or outcomes" ("Oregon education: Where Kate Brown and Knute Buehler stand"). Oregon law already ties school funding to mandates. Most of Oregon's school standards are in Division 22 of the Oregon Administrative Rules. They include diploma requirements, assessments and performance reports. State law says that when a school district is found deficient in implementing these mandates and fails to correct the problem, the superintendent of public instruction -- i.e. the governor -- may withhold state school funding until they are fixed. After trying for decades to persuade the state to follow its own rules, I had recently begun to hope the Department and State Board of Education would take this responsibility seriously. Last week, the head of the Elections Division explained its refusal to investigate a serious complaint by saying, "We don't like to be a gotcha agency." Too many state agencies adopt this motto, to the detriment of Oregonians' health, environment, education and welfare. Margaret DeLacy, Southeast Portland Stackhouse BEND An Oregon woman who accused a driver of attacking her and her passenger has pleaded guilty for her role in an incident that left another driver with a broken jaw. The Bulletin reports 35-year-old Megan Stackhouse pleaded guilty Monday to assault for punching Cheryl Norton of Bend after a traffic crash in May. Norton told The Bulletin that Stackhouse hopped a curb and hit Norton's vehicle. Stackhouse reportedly refused to provide insurance information and angrily confronted Norton. Under the proposed deal, Stackhouse would serve four days in jail and do 30 hours of community service. Stackhouse and her partner also made the news after they told police they were victims of a June 1 violent road rage attack. However, prosecutors dismissed charges against the man in that case, saying the women lacked credibility and their injuries didn't match up with their story. -- The Associated Press A federal appeals court has revived a homeless man's case challenging Portland's anti-camping ordinance as a violation of the Eighth Amendment against cruel and unusual punishment. Michael O'Callaghan filed a lawsuit in 2012 after getting his plywood, tarps and other belongings confiscated multiple times. He contends the ordinance banning camping on public property is unconstitutional as it applies to "thousands of Oregonians who have no place to sleep.'' The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals this month sent O'Callaghan's case back to U.S. District Court for consideration. It had been dismissed in 2015. In its decision, the appeals court cited its recent ruling in a case out of Boise that found such prohibitions may be unconstitutional when enforced against homeless people who have no access to an alternative shelter. "It's great,'' O'Callaghan, 74, said Tuesday, speaking by phone to The Oregonian/OregonLive from his shed beneath the Ross Island Bridge, where he now lives. "It means the court will take a serious look at this.'' City attorney Tracey Reeve said she couldn't comment about the ongoing litigation. O'Callaghan's lawsuit stemmed from a 2011 encounter he had with a park ranger and Portland police. He had put up a temporary structure using plywood and tarps at Southeast Ivan Street and Fourth Avenue. On Feb. 3, 2011, the city posted a notice of illegal camping at the site when O'Callaghan was present. A police officer also told him then that the makeshift shelter would be removed in five days and urged him to take his possessions before then. As promised, a city cleanup crew five days later took down the plywood and tarps as O'Callaghan filmed them. The removal followed O'Callaghan's Jan. 26, 2011, arrest on suspicion of second-degree criminal mischief and the city's issuance of a 180-day park exclusion after police officers and a park ranger found him digging a large cave with a pickax into a public embankment off the Springwater Trail. The cave was about 4 feet wide, 4 feet high and 8 feet deep, reinforced by wooden planks, the city said. U.S. District Judge Anna J. Brown dismissed O'Callaghan's lawsuit, distinguishing Portland's ordinance from other cities' laws. Brown said it prohibited camping, not merely sleeping. She found that the city ordinance, as written, didn't criminalize status but conduct and was constitutional. She also found there was a rational and legitimate government interest to ensure public safety and sanitation. From Michael O'Callaghan's handwritten appeal to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals O'Callaghan wrote an appeal on 25 pages of lined paper while sitting at the Ford, Food & Drink coffee shop in Southeast Portland. He represented himself when he filed the appeal two years ago, but the appellate court soon appointed him lawyers. "Authorities destroyed the plaintiff's home," he wrote. "Removed it with no recovery. Nor did any law authorize destruction and removal of private property. No citation. No due process. Clear." He and his lawyer argued that the city's anti-camping ordinance essentially bans sleeping outside and that the government can't criminalize conduct based on a person's "status or personal condition." "Enforcing such a ban in Portland, at a time when the city has nowhere near the space to shelter all of the homeless, is unconstitutional," wrote Washington, D.C.-based lawyer Matthew Waring. "Everyone must sleep, and the only place where Portland's homeless can sleep is on public property -- where the ordinance makes their sleeping criminal." City attorneys countered that the ordinance prohibiting camping on public property or a public right-of-way is directed at specific conduct done with a specific intention that is, camping to establish a temporary place to live. "It does not prohibit persons from sleeping on public property or public rights-of-way so long as they do not intend to 'dwell,' 'reside' or 'make their home' in those places," Deputy City Attorney Dennis Vannier wrote. The city also pointed out that O'Callaghan was never charged with or convicted of violating the ordinance and argued that the Eighth Amendment applies only to criminal convictions. O'Callaghan, they also said, isn't "involuntarily homeless quite the reverse," noting he has income from two trust funds. But O'Callaghan's lawyer replied that Portland's ordinance defines camping as temporarily living in a place "with any bedding, sleeping bag, or other sleeping matter," suggesting that sleeping outside with a pillow and blanket would be prohibited. The 9th Circuit ordered a U.S. District judge to decide whether the city ordinance, as applied to homeless people, is constitutional. It didn't overturn O'Callaghan's conviction for second-degree criminal mischief. O'Callaghan said he's been living under the Ross Island Bridge for the last four months. His shed has two shelves inside, a brown tarp over it and a door that locks. He described himself as "voluntarily homeless," saying he receives $800 a month in Social Security income and doesn't want to spend a big chunk of it on rent. The divorced father of four children lived in Alaska for 35 years before returning to Portland, his hometown, about 12 years ago, he said. He had worked in logging, landscaping and home construction. He said he no longer has income from the trust funds the city referenced. He doesn't want to sleep in a shelter. "Oh God, are you kidding me? With all those people coughing and hacking," he said. "Would you want to sleep in a situation like that?" Earlier this month, O'Callaghan filed a new legal complaint against the city in federal court, arguing that the city has seized his property without due process. -- Maxine Bernstein mbernstein@oregonian.com 503-221-8212 @maxoregonian The union representing Immigrations and Customs Enforcement employees has asked state and federal officials to open a criminal investigation of Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler over his direction of the police response to ICE protests this summer. The politically pointed gesture, designed to call attention to Wheeler's stance against immigration enforcement actions, goes as far as to suggest he should temporarily give up his duties as police commissioner. In letters sent Wednesday to U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum, the National ICE Council asks officials to probe whether Wheeler committed official misconduct or violated the Constitution by directing Portland police officers not to respond to some calls for service during a lengthy protest the ICE field office in Portland. Wheeler responded with outrage and faulted the lawyer who wrote the letters, Sean Riddell, for making what Wheeler said was serial misrepresentations of what occurred. "Make no mistake. They are coming after me because I am a vocal opponent of the administration's policy of separating kids from their parents," Wheeler said in a statement. "Previous claims made by Sean Riddell have fallen apart upon further inspection and these claims, if investigated, will too." Kristina Edmunson, a spokeswoman for Rosenblum, said her office has received the union's letter and is reviewing it. A spokesman for the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Oregon referred questions to the Department of Justice headquarters in Washington, D.C. In the letters on behalf of the union, Riddell cites Wheeler's public statements and messages sent by a mayoral aide and a Portland Police Bureau captain directing police to respond to the protest only if there were an immediate threat to lives or safety. Riddell served as a deputy Oregon attorney general during Democrat John Kroger's time as attorney general. Wheeler has said he detests the actions of ICE agents to separate some children and parents facing deportation; his statements drew a personal rebuke from President Trump. In his statement Wednesday, he added to those criticisms. "Now we know many of these kids will be permanently orphaned as a result," Wheeler said. "That is wrong. I'm outraged by it." The mayor had also previously responded to Riddell's critiques by saying the city did nothing wrong, arguing Portland's hands-off approach was necessary to protect protesters' free speech rights. Riddell wrote that Wheeler, as mayor and police commissioner, has a duty to enforce all laws of Portland and the state of Oregon. Riddell said Wheeler did not enforce laws that bar rioting, harassment, disorderly conduct and unlawful camping, according to the letters, first reported by the Portland Tribune and independently obtained by The Oregonian/OregonLive. During the long protest, demonstrators blocked areas around the ICE field office, located off Southwest Macadam Boulevard. They set up makeshift camps and at times clashed with federal police officers, resulting in arrests. In all, federal police arrested 19 people, mostly for trying to block the entrance to the immigration agency's office or for tearing police tape demarcating the federal property line. Three of them were arrested for allegedly assaulting a federal officer. Wheeler said at the time that he wanted to allow federal police to enforce laws on the property of the federal immigration office rather than have city police do so. Riddell said the mayor directed city police not to respond to some calls for service "to advance his own personal political agenda, advance his political career and punish citizens he perceived to hold alternative political beliefs." According to a state law cited by Riddell, a public servant commits official misconduct if he or she knowingly fails to perform a duty of their office or commits an unauthorized excess of authority with the intent to benefit or harm another person. Prosecutions under the statute are exceedingly rare. Riddell said that should an investigation be launched, Wheeler ought to temporarily give up his duties as police commissioner. -- Gordon R. Friedman Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler on Wednesday endorsed a "no" vote on Measure 105. If adopted, the measure would repeal Oregon's sanctuary state law. The move by Wheeler is not exactly a surprise, given the mayor's frequent statements in support of immigrants, including those living in Portland illegally. Wednesday's announcement said Wheeler's "no" endorsement joins those of 15 other Oregon mayors. Oregon has had a sanctuary state law for decades that prevents local and state law enforcement from arresting people whose only crime is being in the country illegally. -- Gordon R. Friedman SOUTHAVEN, Miss. -- President Donald Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi on Tuesday by mocking a woman who has claimed she was sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago. The audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Christine Blasey Ford's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She testified that Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s, when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Ford's allegations. "How did you get home? 'I don't remember,'" Trump said at the rally in Southaven. "How did you get there? 'I don't remember.' Where is the place? 'I don't remember.' How many years ago was it? 'I don't know. I don't know. I don't know.'" Imitating Ford, he added, "But I had one beer -- that's the only thing I remember." It marked the sharpest criticism by Trump of Ford since she came forward publicly with the allegation last month. He had previously called Ford a "very credible witness." Ford's lawyer Michael Bromwich called Trump's attack "vicious, vile and soulless." "Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well?" Bromwich tweeted. "She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice." The president was in Mississippi on Tuesday looking to use his influence to sway the outcome of a low-profile election that could tip the balance of the Senate. As Republicans fight headwinds ahead of the Nov. 6 midterm election, Trump sought to rally his supporters behind GOP Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, who was appointed to fill the seat of Republican Thad Cochran, who retired in April. She faces three candidates -- Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bernard Bartee -- in next month's special election for the remainder of the two-year term. "She's always had my back," Trump said. "She's always had your back. And a vote for Cindy is a vote for me." But Trump spent much of the rally lamenting the treatment of Kavanaugh by Democrats, whose attacks, he said, had taken their toll on the judge's family. "A man's life is in tatters," he said. Of Democrats, he added, "These are really evil people." He even raised questions about the drinking habits of Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy in an attempt to turn the tables on Democrats who have gone after Kavanaugh's beer drinking. Trump told the crowd they should do an online search for "Patrick Leahy slash drink." Leahy's office didn't immediately return a message seeking comment Tuesday. Some Republicans and White House allies have suggested the allegations against Kavanaugh can be potent political fodder in the run-up to Nov. 6, animating GOP voters who have so far lacked the same motivation to head to the polls as their Democratic counterparts. Republican officials and the White House expect Hyde-Smith's race to go to a runoff under the state's jungle election rules that force a showdown between the top two finishers if no candidate wins at least 50 percent of the vote on Election Day. With Republicans defending majorities in the House and Senate next month, officials cast Trump's visit as an attempt to get ahead of a potentially perilous situation. Officials said Trump is seeking to boost Hyde-Smith as close as possible to the 50 percent threshold and lend momentum for a possible runoff. Depending on how Republicans perform on Nov. 6, the eyes of the nation could fall on a Nov. 27 Mississippi runoff in what could become an expensive and high-profile race to determine control of the Senate. "Your vote in this election will decide which party controls the United States Senate," Trump said. A vocal minority of the crowd Tuesday backed the other conservative in the race, McDaniel, a state senator, and booed Hyde-Smith when Trump introduced her. They launched into occasional chants of "We want Chris." Earlier Tuesday, Trump told electrical contractors gathered in Philadelphia that his economic policies would translate into more jobs for their ranks as he highlighted a new trade deal among the U.S., Mexico and Canada. "We're in the midst of a manufacturing renaissance -- something which nobody thought you'd hear," Trump said in a speech to the National Electrical Contractors Association Convention a day after celebrating the new North American trade deal. In fact, North America already is a manufacturing powerhouse. The United States ranks No. 2 in the world behind China in manufacturing output. Mexico ranks 11th and Canada 13th, according to United Nations numbers pulled together by the Brookings Institution. Trump calls the new trade agreement USMCA, for U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. "Like YMCA or U.S. Marine Corps with an A at the end," he explained. He said he doesn't want to use the previous name, NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, which he contends cost American jobs and railed against during his 2016 presidential campaign. The new trade deal still must be approved by Congress. "We are finally rebuilding our country, and we are doing it with American aluminum, American steel and with our great electrical contractors," he said. Trump said the strong economy "means more jobs for our great electrical contractors." Before departing the White House, Trump tweeted: THE ONLY REASON TO VOTE FOR A DEMOCRAT IS IF YOURE TIRED OF WINNING! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 2, 2018 --By Zeke Miller More than three years after resigning from office in disgrace, John Kitzhaber is back in the public eye with a travel series on local TV. The former Oregon governor will host "occasional segments" on KGW starting this week, the station announced Tuesday, in which he'll travel to scenic destinations around the state to "showcase the state's natural beauty and give insight into their significance." No other details about the segments have been announced. Kitzhaber, 71, was elected governor four times - in 1994, 1998, 2010 and 2014 - but resigned from office in 2015 while under federal investigation for payments accepted by his fiance, Cylvia Hayes, from private groups that wanted to influence Oregon's environmental and economic policies. Federal prosecutors eventually decided not to pursue criminal charges, but earlier this year Kitzhaber agreed to pay a $20,000 fine and admitted to violating state ethics laws including a prohibition against using public office for personal gain. Now, it appears that Kitzhaber is ready for a new chapter in his career. KGW has not said where Kitzhaber will travel or what sort of scenic destinations he'll highlight, but as Oregon is a place of seemingly endless natural beauty, there's no shortage of places the former governor could go. Of course, we do have a few ideas... Oregon's 50 most beautiful places Oregon's 12 most amazing natural phenomena Drive Oregon's 16 scenic byways Oregon's 47 wilderness areas --Jamie Hale | jhale@oregonian.com | @HaleJamesB The City of Midland has promoted Assessing Manager Kayla Stevenson to the role of city assessor effective immediately. The announcement comes following the retirement of previous City Assessor Reid Duford earlier this month. It's very rare when the Midland County Board of Commissioners rejects funds from the state. But, that was the case Tuesday, when the board voted 6-0 to adopt a resolution rejecting the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) Grant Disbursement contract. On May 22, 2017, the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs approved the first four, of eight, additional standards for indigent criminal defense services. The MIDC website states that, "Those first four standards cover training and education of counsel, the initial client interview, use of investigation and experts, and counsel at first appearance and other critical stages." "What was agreed to legally was, once full payment was received by the county for the estimated expenses for the increased standards, we would be expecting a check for $178,000 and then we would have 180 days to comply with these new standards," Commissioner Scott Noesen stated at the Midland County Administration and Operations committee meeting of Sept. 25. But, the MIDC had a different interpretation for funding to the counties. The commission would provide 20 percent up front with the remaining 80 percent being on a reimbursement basis. "This resolution basically says, 'We are not going to sign any document that says we are going to only get 20 percent up front,'" Noesen said. The Michigan Association of Counties (MAC), of which Midland County is a member, got involved and encouraged member counties to submit the resolution to Gov. Rick Snyder, each county's respective state senator and state representative. "The position that MAC took was that is not what was agreed to and if a county signed a contract to the effect, they would essentially be violating the law that exists. Because the statute says, 'payment in full, 180 days,'" Noesen said. "The MIDC is hearing from lots of counties that they are not happy." Midland County Court Administrator Lance Dexter had Midland County judges Michael J. Beale, Stephen P. Carras and Michael D. Carpenter preview the resolution. "They all gave their blessing," Dexter said. But, what happens if the county receives either the grant or a check for 20 percent? "If we accept the grant, we are accepting the 20 percent," Midland County Attorney L. William Smith said. Smith also added that the state is transitioning its contracts to reimbursement contracts. "Then we have to jump through hoops to get our money and also need the money up front. That is going to play havoc with counties that are much closer (than Midland) to the line as far as break even is concerned," Smith said. Commissioner Eric Dorrien was absent from the meeting. As colder weather arrives, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is reminding low-income residents they can apply for emergency energy assistance either online or using paper applications. Misinformation has been circulating that has the potential to create confusion that could cause residents to not realize that both online and paper applications for energy assistance remain options, state officials reported. "MDHHS is making sure that residents who may need assistance to keep their homes heated and the lights on have access to energy assistance applications - whether they want to apply online or using paper forms" said Terrence Beurer, the department's deputy director for Field Operations Administration. "People who need help paying their energy bills can apply online at www.michigan.gov/mibridges or pick up paper applications at their local MDHHS office. Lobby navigators at MDHHS offices and some private agencies that assist with energy assistance can help people apply online. We want residents to have multiple ways to apply so they can keep their families warm." Assistance to low-income households is available through State Emergency Relief and the Michigan Energy Assistance Program. State Emergency Relief is for immediate assistance to someone facing conditions of extreme hardship or emergencies threatening health and safety. This emergency support is designed to help low-income households that are normally able to make ends meet, but occasionally need help when an unexpected situation arises -- and is available to pay for utilities only when a shutoff has occurred or there is a threat of a shutoff. The Michigan Energy Assistance Program is a preventive program designed to provide energy assistance to low-income households so that they can reach energy self-sufficiency. A household that qualifies for State Emergency Relief for heat or non-heat electricity services also qualifies for additional energy services from the Michigan Energy Assistance Program through private agencies that have received MDHHS grant funding. More information can be found on the Michigan Energy Assistance Program website. Grantees for 2018-19 have not yet been announced, but the website will be updated in October. If they do not want to or cannot apply online, people can apply for energy assistance at local MDHHS offices or through MEAP grantees. The application form MDHHS-1171 can be found and printed on the Assistance Application page of the MDHHS website. Michigan Energy Assistance Program grantees will use the MI Bridges online system to assist applicants and provide them with energy self-sufficiency services such as weatherizing their homes so they are more energy efficient. There are some changes in the application process beginning Oct. 1. All households applying for energy assistance are now using MDHHS applications. Previously, there were different applications for the Michigan Energy Assistance Program. MDHHS will now process all applications, which will streamline the process and allow grantees to devote more of their resources to helping people become energy self-sufficient. Beginning Oct. 1, people could apply for energy assistance year-round. That's different than in recent years, when people were required to apply only during the designated energy crisis season, which was from Nov. 1 to May 31. Anyone with questions about energy assistance can visit www.michigan.gov/mdhhs and click on "Assistance Programs" and then "Emergency Relief: Home, Utilities & Burial." Or contact the local MDHHS office for information. Hunter Dalli spent his entire childhood on the run. His family never had a place they could call home. The civil war in his country meant his childhood was spent fleeing to different locations for safety. Dalli recalls as a child that the longest period they stayed in one place was three months. By staying on the move, his parents were able to protect him from armed groups who would recruit children as soldiers. St. Johns Episcopal Church will also host an event with Dalli sharing his story from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12. Those interested in attending should use the Griswold Ministry entrance. After he joined Nonviolence Peaceforce, Dalli led a small team to negotiate the release of child soldiers. This account and other experiences will be shared by him from 7-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13 at Creative 360 in Midland. All are welcome to meet him and hear his incredible life story and his work to transform the worlds response to conflict. The rest of Dallis family remains in South Sudan, split apart by war. They live in two separate locations as a precaution. If one side of the family is killed, the other side will still be alive. For families in South Sudan, this is a necessary means for their survival. Dalli's passion is to create a better life and future for the children of South Sudan. Their well-being will lead to a better future for the entire country. He knows first hand that war can have a devastating impact on children. Currently in South Sudan, children are at-risk of child soldier recruitment, interruption of schooling, separation of families and early-childhood marriage. Dalli is currently an IT student at San Francisco State University. His dream is to create an app that will make reuniting families and children separated by conflict easier and more efficient. The events are sponsored by the Midland Chapter of Nonviolence Peaceforce and supporting partners. For more information, contact Mary Mersereau-Kempf at 989-859-7582 or via email, marymmk@gmail.com. Last month, I spoke with the employees of one of Michigan's most iconic manufacturers, The Dow Chemical Co., about the future of manufacturing. We talked about how the industry is booming -- with 95 percent of manufacturers optimistic about the future -- and discussed manufacturing's expanding workforce crisis. Manufacturers are generating so many good jobs these days that they cannot find enough skilled workers to fill them. As head of The Manufacturing Institute, the social impact arm of the National Association of Manufacturers, it's my job to tackle this challenge to Michigan's and America's economies. On Friday, the Institute, along with great partners like Dow and Cooper Standard, will launch one of our biggest annual efforts to take on this challenge: Manufacturing Day (MFG Day). On Friday, and throughout the month, thousands of factories and technical schools will open their doors to parents, teachers and students to demonstrate the reality of modern manufacturing. That's key because -- while some don't know that manufacturing job openings exist and some lack the necessary skills to get them -- often, Americans simply have misperceptions about what a career in manufacturing looks like in 2018. Today's manufacturing jobs hardly resemble the sort of labor that our grandparents may remember. Instead, the industry offers lifelong, safe, stimulating and high-paying careers. In Michigan, manufacturing workers make more than $70,000 in average annual compensation, far more than the $47,000 average earned in non-farm businesses. Furthermore, many of these jobs don't require a college degree--or the debt that often goes with it. We're grateful to the generous partners that make MFG Day possible. There are events across Michigan, like the one Dow will be co-hosting at the SAY Play Center with MFG Day sponsor Cooper Standard where Detroit youth can participate in a robotics competition and network with manufacturers. You can probably find one of Michigan's hundreds of MFG Day events in your own neighborhood at www.mfgday.com, and you can find out more about the many different ways the Institute is addressing the workforce crisis -- from inspiring more women to join the manufacturing workforce to helping veterans find new civilian careers in the industry -- at www.themanufacturinginstitute.org. Manufacturing generates about one-fifth of total output in Michigan and employs nearly 600,000 Michiganders. We should all be alarmed that more Michiganders are not yet excited to join them. So, come see the reality of modern manufacturing yourself at some fun and informative MFG Day events. They might even interest you in a new and rewarding career in manufacturing. Carolyn Lee is the executive director of The Manufacturing Institute, a non-profit affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, the nation's largest industrial trade association. In a powerful trailer of an upcoming docufilm, Indus Blues, Pakistans story of its soul is unveiled. Indus Blues is the story of the disappearing folk musical instruments of Pakistan and the struggle of the indigenous musicians and craftsmen, who are barely surviving in an indifferent society. Filmmaker Jawad Sharif takes you on a journey from the northern Karakoram mountains to the southern coastline in search of these disappearing musical treasures. Indus Blues is a production of Foundation of Arts, Culture and Education (FACE) and Bipolar Films. Check out the full trailer here. The trailer begins with a powerful narration of a snake-charmer about how they give snakes venom to a newborn child and if the child survives, they begin to train him as a snake-charmer. If he dies, the child belongs to God. The film connects this old folklore to urban day crises of the death of folk music in Pakistan. Struggling with threats of fundamentalism in not just day to day society but also in terms of warfare and attacks on our people in Pakistan, the trailer speaks boldly of how music and the arts are facing an existential crises. The trailer features musical giants like Nighat Chaudhary who are speaking about this slow death of music and musicians in Pakistan and the trailer then goes on to speak to folk musicians who are a dying breed. We will show our children in books that this was the last sarangi player in Pakistan. When there is no peace or love, then what to speak of music and musical instruments? Director Jawad Sharif has created a compelling tale to tell and most importantly an essential tale for not just Pakistani musicians and fans of folk music but also for the general masses who are now asking themselves who we are as Pakistanis and what our identities mean. Yesterday afternoon, the New York Times produced one of the greatest pieces of journalism youll ever see. Its an exhaustive report on President Trumps finances, based on an analysis of over 100,000 documents culled from public sources mortgages and deeds, probate records, financial disclosure reports, regulatory records and civil court files, as well as tens of thousands of pages of confidential records bank statements, financial audits, accounting ledgers, cash disbursement reports, invoices and canceled checks, including over 200 tax returns from his father, Fred Trump. To say the Times brought the receipts to this inevitable fight is an understatement. The report paints an incredibly damning picture of Trump, as it proves that his fortune was not self-madeas the president has spent a lifetime assertingbut it came directly from his father in a litany of sketchy ways. Plus, the famed $1 million loan from Fred Trump was found to be at least $60.7 million, and theres questions about whether Trump ever paid it back. The Times revealed that Trump was making $200,000 per year by the time he was three years old, and he was a millionaire by age eight. The report is impeccably detailed, and I encourage you to take an hour out of your day to read the whole thing, but here are five excerpts you need to know. But The Timess investigation, based on a vast trove of confidential tax returns and financial records, reveals that Mr. Trump received the equivalent today of at least $413 million from his fathers real estate empire, starting when he was a toddler and continuing to this day. Much of this money came to Mr. Trump because he helped his parents dodge taxes. He and his siblings set up a sham corporation to disguise millions of dollars in gifts from their parents, records and interviews show. Records indicate that Mr. Trump helped his father take improper tax deductions worth millions more. He also helped formulate a strategy to undervalue his parents real estate holdings by hundreds of millions of dollars on tax returns, sharply reducing the tax bill when those properties were transferred to him and his siblings. The most overt fraud was All County Building Supply & Maintenance, a company formed by the Trump family in 1992. All Countys ostensible purpose was to be the purchasing agent for Fred Trumps buildings, buying everything from boilers to cleaning supplies. It did no such thing, records and interviews show. Instead All County siphoned millions of dollars from Fred Trumps empire by simply marking up purchases already made by his employees. Those millions, effectively untaxed gifts, then flowed to All Countys owners Donald Trump, his siblings and a cousin. Fred Trump then used the padded All County receipts to justify bigger rent increases for thousands of tenants. Before he turned 20, Fred Trump had already built and sold his first home. At age 35, he was building hundreds of houses a year in Brooklyn and Queens. By 45, he was building some of the biggest apartment complexes in the country. Aside from an astonishing work ethic Sleeping is a waste of time, he liked to say the growth reflected his shrewd application of mass-production techniques. The Brooklyn Daily Eagle called him the Henry Ford of the home-building industry. He would erect scaffolding a city block long so his masons, sometimes working a second shift under floodlights, could throw up a dozen rowhouses in a week. They sold for about $115,000 in todays dollars. In the chauffeured Cadillac, Donald Trump took The Timess reporter on a tour of what he called his jobs. He told her about the Manhattan hotel he planned to convert into a Grand Hyatt (his father guaranteed the construction loan), and the Hudson River railroad yards he planned to develop (the rights were purchased by his fathers company). He showed her our philanthropic endeavor, the high-rise for the elderly in East Orange (bankrolled by his father), and an apartment complex on Staten Island (owned by his father), and their flagship, Trump Village, in Brooklyn (owned by his father), and finally Beach Haven Apartments (owned by his father). Even the Cadillac was leased by his father. So far, he boasted, Ive never made a bad deal. Yet for all the spin about cutting his own path in Manhattan, Donald Trump was increasingly dependent on his father. Weeks after The Timess profile ran, Fred Trump set up still more trusts for his children, seeding each with todays equivalent of $4.3 million. Even into the early 1980s, when he was already proclaiming himself one of Americas richest men, Donald Trump remained on his fathers payroll, drawing an annual salary of $260,000 in todays dollars. The document, known as a codicil, did many things. It protected Donald Trumps portion of the inheritance from his creditors and from his impending divorce settlement with his first wife, Ivana Trump. It strengthened provisions in the existing will making him the sole executor of his fathers estate. But more than any of the particulars, it was the entirety of the codicil and its presentation as a fait accompli that alarmed Fred Trump, the depositions show. He confided to family members that he viewed the codicil as an attempt to go behind his back and give his son total control over his affairs. He said he feared that it could let Donald Trump denude his empire, even using it as collateral to rescue his failing businesses. (It was, in fact, the very month of the $3.5 million casino rescue.) As close as they were or perhaps because they were so close Fred Trump did not immediately confront his son. Instead he turned to his daughter Maryanne Trump Barry, then a federal judge whom he often consulted on legal matters. This doesnt pass the smell test, he told her, she recalled during her deposition. When Judge Barry read the codicil, she reached the same conclusion. Donald was in precarious financial straits by his own admission, she said, and Dad was very concerned as a man who worked hard for his money and never wanted any of it to leave the family. (In a brief telephone interview, Judge Barry declined to comment.) Fred Trump took prompt action to thwart his son. He dispatched his daughter to find new estate lawyers. One of them took notes on the instructions she passed on from her father: Protect assets from DJT, Donalds creditors. The lawyers quickly drafted a new codicil stripping Donald Trump of sole control over his fathers estate. Fred Trump signed it immediately. President Trump is a fraud. Literally. We can say this because the New York Times certainly cleared using that specific criminal term with a litany of lawyers. If what was described in the exhaustive report was not fraud, then the NYT would torpedo their credibility and would likely be sued into oblivion. Fred Trump was very much a self-made manif you ignore the fact that his entire real estate empire was made possible by the United States federal government giving him cheap loans. The irony of him spending the majority of his life figuring out ways to circumvent paying taxes while passing his fortune down to his children is a fitting tale for our times. This report is so solid that the New York state tax department is reviewing the fraud allegations by The Times. It will be difficult to nail Trump on any potential criminal activity detailed by the New York Times, given that the statute of limitations has expiredhowever, civil litigation does not, and the infuriatingly and transparently corrupt business of All County Building Supply & Maintenance sure looks like a massive liability. Lord knows how many people were paying higher rents for who knows how longsolely because of a scheme perpetrated by Fred Trump to funnel his fortune into Donald Trump and his siblings pockets. The President of the United States is a literal fraud, and thanks to the intrepid reporting that took over a year for David Barstow, Susanne Craig, Russ Buettner and their editors at the NYT to complete, now we have the documentation to prove it. Jacob Weindling is a staff writer for Paste politics. Follow him on Twitter at @Jakeweindling. (*This piece has been updated) Good Wednesday Morning, Fellow Seekers. We already knew the race for central Pennsylvania's redrawn 10th Congressional District was competitive. But a new poll out this week shows it's anyone's ballgame as Election Day closes in. Republican U.S. Rep. Scott Perry leads Democratic opponent George Scott 44-43 percent in the new Public Policy Poll, with 12 percent of voters in the midstate contest undecided. The telephone survey of 650 voters by the left-leaning polling organization was conducted on Sept. 24 and Sept. 25. It was commissioned by an outside group supporting Scott.* The poll shows that about a third of respondents each have a favorable impression of Perry (36-32 percent) and Scott (35-17 percent). Of the two, however, Scott has the most ground to make up. Forty-eight percent of respondents said they didn't know enough to form an impression of him, compared to 31 percent for Perry. Fifty percent of respondents identified themselves as Republicans in the poll, compared to 35 percent who said they were Democrats. Fourteen percent of respondents self-identified as independents. Reflecting national trends, voters in the 10th District are looking forward to casting their ballots in November. Nearly two-thirds of respondents (64 percent) said they're very excited to vote in November. The 10th District was redrawn as part of a new map imposed by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court earlier this year, improving the electoral chances for Democrats. Had it been existence two years ago, the redrawn 10th District would have gone to President Donald Trump by 9 percentage points (well down from the 22-point margin in the 4th Congressional District that it's replacing). In his round of state-by-state rankings, political analyst Nathan Gonzales at "Inside Elections" has the 10th District listed as "likely Republican," while The Cook Political Report, in August, listed the seat as "lean Republican." Democrats need to flip 23 seats to retake control of the House. With competitive races in the Philadelphia suburbs and in western Pennsylvania, the Keystone State is in the vanguard of that effort as Election Day closes in. Read the full memo below: New Public Policy Poll in PA10 by jmicek on Scribd The rest of the day's news starts now. Republican governor candidate Scott Wagner sits down with the PennLive Editorial Board today at 2 p.m. in a rescheduled session. We still want your questions for the York County pol. President Donald Trump was in Philly on Tuesday. PennLive's Steve Marroni has the details. BillyPenn spent some quality time with the protesters outside Trump's Philly appearance. Former Gov. Ed Rendell is leading an effort to open a safe-injection site in Philadelphia, The Inquirer reports. The Pa. Gaming Control Board is poised to approve Pennsylvania's first sports-betting licenses today. Though it'll be a while before you can place that first wager, PennLive's Charlie Thompson reports. Protesters in Pittsburgh tell Sen. Pat Toomey: 'We do not want a justice system that looks like Brett Kavanaugh' (via The Incline). Here's an arty and inspiring #Harrisburg Instagram of the Day: 'Arrest me first,' former Gov. Ed Rendell says of his support for that safe-injection site, WHYY-FM reports. Years later, caseload concerns remain in a Pennsylvania public defender's office, WESA-FM reports. Lehigh County Commissioner are looking for changes to their proposed budget. But none of those changes address a proposed tax hike, The Morning Call reports. Gov. Tom Wolf is out with a new attack ad. This one goes after Scott Wagner's businesses. And Wolf has turned down Wagner's request for more debates after Monday night's debacle in Hershey, PoliticsPA reports. Looking ahead to future primary challenges, Republican U.S. Senators are embracing Brett Kavanaugh, Politico reports. Meanwhile, Kavanaugh-inspired tensions have moved the Senate to beef up its security, Roll Call reports. What Goes On. The House is out. The Senate comes in at 11 a.m. WolfWatch. Gov. Tom Wolf has no public schedule today. What Goes On (Nakedly Political Edition). 8 a.m.: Breakfast for Sen. Camera Bartolotta 8 a.m.: Breakfast for Pa. House candidate Kyle Mullins 8:30 a.m: Breakfast for Sen. Christine Tartaglione 6 p.m.: Reception for Allegheny Co. Treasurer John Weinstein Ride the circuit, and give at the max, and you'll be out a mere $6,000 today. You Say It's Your Birthday Dept. Best wishes go out this morning to Lizzy Hardison, of The 'Burg, who celebrates today. Congrats and enjoy the day. Heavy Rotation. Here's one that popped up on the way to work. Hadn't heard it in a while - still as much fun as we remember. Wednesday's Gratuitous Soccer Link. Once the mightiest club on Earth, Manchester United are a hot mess this season. What, if anything, can be done to save them? The Guardian takes up the challenge. And now you're up to date. Out of the blue, the gunfire began. A vehicle pulled up, and at least one gunman opened fire on a group of people outside of a house in West Philadelphia. Two of those people were 22-year-old mother Dawn Boyd and her 10-month-old daughter, NBC-10 in Philly reports. Without hesitating, the mother placed herself between her baby girl and what police say was a hail of bullets. Boyd was shot multiple times -- in both legs, her left arm and chest in the Friday night drive-by shooting on the 5100 block of Haverford Avenue in West Philly. On Sunday, the brave mother died of her injuries, and now family and friends are hailing her as a hero for giving her life to save her little daughter and another child, NBC-10 reports, adding: "She grabbed the two babies, her friend ran into the house and by the time she turned around my daughter was crawling, saying she couldn't breathe," Boyd's mother, Michelle McDonnell, told NBC-10. "My granddaughter, thank God she's still here," Stephen Boyd, Boyd's father, added. "As my daughter tried to protect the kids, she lost her life, and we consider her as a hero." Neither Boyd's daughter nor the other young child was injured. But a 24-year-old man was shot in the chest and died at the hospital. A 35-year-old man was shot in the left arm, and a 21-year-old woman was shot in the upper right leg. Both are in stable condition. Police say the multiple rounds of bullets came from two separate guns. However, they have not released a description of the suspect or the suspect's vehicle. The investigation continues. For the second straight day, the Monroe County Courthouse was evacuated Tuesday due to a phoned-in bomb threat - the seventh such threat called in since May. And according to the Morning Call in Allentown, the bomb threats are being phoned in from multiple northern Pa. counties - but all focus on Monroe County as the subject of the threats. As WFMZ reports, the courthouse was closed most of Monday after a bomb threat again forced its evacuation. Someone called around 8:30 a.m. saying four bombs were placed in the courthouse and would explode in several hours. Investigators searched the building but came up empty. Authorities told WFMZ the rash of bomb threats, which have forced a courthouse evacation each time, are more of a nuisance than a real threat to safety. But police have released the 911 recordings of the threatening calls in hopes someone will recognize the caller's voice. Those tapes can be heard here. Anyone with information about the threats is asked to call Detective Brian Webbe at 570-517-3114 or Detective Kim Lippincott at 570-517-3059. The human resources director for the Harrisburg School District was placed on administrative leave at the end of the work day Tuesday. District officials confirmed to PennLive that Curtis Tribue, who was hired in May 2017, was placed on paid administrative leave. He earns more than $110,000 in salary annually. "The Administration will ensure that the District's Human Resources Department will continue to function with support from existing departmental staff and with additional staffing support from the Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials," said a statement from district officials. "Beyond this information, District officials have no further comment as this is a personnel matter." The suspension comes after a series of costly missteps by the human resources department, including over-hiring 37 teachers for positions that weren't in the budget and paying teachers new to the district more than veteran teachers within the district, in violation of the teachers' union collective bargaining unit. The teachers hired through contracts with "inflated" salaries then were asked to pay back nearly $500,000 that they were "overpaid," because of the hiring errors, but district officials later backed off that demand. At a news conference in August, teachers described how the pay snafus were just the latest in a series of mistakes by the human resources department that had resulted in a record number of grievances filed by teachers. Union members filed 33 grievances last school year when typically about 13 are filed. The union filed seven grievances during the first few days of this school year, alleging violations of their collective bargaining agreement. Union officials noted that Tribue had worked in human resources before, but never for a school district. His Linkedin profile shows his job with the Harrisburg School District was his fifth within ten years. His previous jobs were as a human resources manager for a York company that manufactured attendance, administration and security system software for schools, as a site manager for the state Department of Labor and Industry and as an organizational effectiveness consultant. At a community meeting Tuesday night, before news of Tribue's suspension was made public, Jody Barksdale, the Harrisburg teachers' union president, described several interactions with Tribue that caused her concern. She said she heard from a teacher who resigned via email after taking a medical sabbatical that Tribue had asked her via email to come in for an exit interview to determine why she had resigned. The teacher had accepted a position in the higher-paying York city district. She also had been paying back the Harrisburg district for the time she took for medical sabbatical. Several months later, Tribue confronted Barksdale about the fact that a teacher who was on medical sabbatical was working for another district. Barksdale had to point out that the teacher had emailed her resignation and Tribue had responded to that notification. Tribue also told parents that teachers whose positions were cut this year were not rehired this school year because they had let their emergency certifications expire. But Barksdale pointed out that it's the district's responsibility under Pa. law to obtain emergency certifications for teachers. Many of those teachers had paid the district $200 for the certifications that they thought the district had obtained on their behalf, she said. Tribue could not immediately be reached for comment. HARRISBURG--Nearly two months into the school year, Harrisburg's main high school still has 17 open teaching positions the district can't fill. That means some classes must be lead by long-term substitutes or split-teams of teachers so students can have an instructor in the room. One senior at John Harris is enrolled in four classes, for example, but only one of his classes has an assigned teacher in his critical, final year in high school. His other three classes are taught in 90-minute blocks by two different teachers who cover the time by splitting 45-minute increments during their planning periods. That means the teachers lose their planning period and the students get two different teachers tag-teaming each subject. Jody Barksdale, president of the Harrisburg teachers' union, said there also are 18 special education teaching positions vacant across the district, resulting in unwieldy caseloads for the existing special education teachers. "They're doing the best they can," she said. "But we are short of psychologists, speech teachers, an online Spanish teacher and math positions at the high school," she said. "The district says they can't find anyone for those positions but they never asked us. There are things we can do to help but I just found this out recently because I asked." These were among the details shared during a teachers' union community meeting Wednesday night. Union leaders held the meeting to update residents on negotiations with the district for a new contract after the last contract expired over the summer. A handful of residents attended the meeting, including several from the new community group, CATCH (Concerned About The Children of Harrisburg.) Negotiations with the district aren't going well, according to Carolyn Funkhouser, a UniServ Representative with the Pennsylvania State Education Association, who represents Harrisburg teachers. She said negotiators sat down most recently Monday night. Teachers came to the bargaining table with 12 items, "the most important ones that include health and safety of the buildings/classrooms, staff shortages and smaller class sizes," she said. But the district came to the table with 57 items that would reduce or eliminate many of the benefits for teachers, which is a problem when the district can't currently retain or hire the necessary staff, Funkhouser said. Since the fall of 2017, more than 120 teachers have resigned or retired, she said. "They have difficultly retaining qualified staff," Funkhouser said. "So it seems foolish to take away more reasons to work here. High teacher turnover is creating instability for students." The attorney representing the district has said the district doesn't have any money for raises beyond the "maximum increases" outlined in the district's recovery plan, which is a 1.5-percent raise but not enough money to move teachers up a step on the pay scale. A fact-sheet provided to attendees of the meeting Tuesday night explained that another three-year contract with no step movement would mean a teacher with 13 years of experience would remain on step 4 of the salary schedule, which translates into a loss of more than $14,000 each year. Meanwhile, the district's human resources department hired more than 65 teachers in recent years at the wrong, and higher pay scale, resulting in teachers new to the district being paid much more than veteran teachers with the same experience who have long taught in the district. Union officials said district officials need to pay more attention to the money they are currently spending before saying there is no money to retain teachers. The officials pointed out that a few years ago, district officials thought they had a $4-million budget deficit, but it turned out they had $11.5 million in surpluses. An accounting error that kept the cost of 500 furloughed teachers in the budget each year lead to the mistake. This year's budget contains apparent errors, union officials said, with increased money allocated for teachers and health benefits compared to last year even though the district cut 50 positions over the summer. In recent years, core spending in classrooms has increased slightly, according to union officials, but spending on outside contractors has spiked. Nearly 50 percent of the district's annual budget is for debt payments or private contracts, the latter of which could be reduced, Barksdale said, because it's unclear if that spending has been effective. The money for those contracts go to private companies, many located outside of the Commonwealth. Board President Judd Pittman previously has complained that contract renewals currently don't demonstrate results or deliverables. If the district is facing a financial struggle, it's because of excessive spending on contracts with questionable results, union officials said. One teacher at the meeting said she would rather see money go to basics, like keeping the classrooms heated and cooled appropriately. Instead, as it stands, there are classrooms across the hall from each other at Camp Curtin Middle School where one room recently registered 54 degrees while another registered 87 degrees. "That's how drastic it is," Barksdale said. "Those are the type of conditions our kids are sitting in." The meeting Tuesday was the first of a series of planned meetings to try to bring in parents and community members to better understand what is happening within the school district. Editor's Note: This article was updated to clarify that teachers are using their planning periods to substitute split shifts to fill classes that lack teachers. State Farm insurance doesn't have to pay to defend a Mechanicsburg area father against a $3 million sexual abuse lawsuit filed by his daughter, a federal judge has ruled. Although the father had been insured by State Farm for more than 20 years, none of those policies cover him for sexual molestation or intentionally inflicted injuries, U.S. Middle District Chief Judge Christopher C. Conner found. PennLive is not naming the parties in the case because it does not identify victims of sexual assault. State Farm sought the coverage ruling after the daughter filed suit against her father in Utah. She claims her dad molested her for years in that state and in Pennsylvania, New Hampshire and Florida. As Connor noted, the daughter contends that throughout her childhood her father repeatedly touched her breast and buttocks in a sexual manner, and that he made her kiss him on the lips and forced the family dog to lick her genitals. In reply to the State Farm's plea for release, the father's attorneys called the daughter's assertions "false and scurrilous." They contended "there is absence of any evidence, even a scintilla, to support the claims." A search of Pennsylvania court records did not reveal that any criminal charges have been filed against the father. The father had sought coverage from State Farm under his homeowner, renter and personal liability policies. Conner agreed with State Farm that it has no legal obligation under those policies to cover the father for actions that are not accidental, but which involve deliberate acts, including sexual assault. WILLIAMSPORT - A mother who admitted she did not provide a stable household and adequate food for two of her three young children will be under court supervision for nearly five years. "I hope during that time you can get some life skills," Lycoming County Judge Nancy L. Butts told Breanna Diane Long on Tuesday while sentencing her to 11 to 23 months in prison followed by three years' probation. While on probation, Long, 21, who now lives in Orangeville, must perform 50 hours of community service, obtain her GED and undergo mental health and drug and alcohol assessments. According to a presentence report, Long began drinking when she was 13, dropped out of school three years later in the eighth grade when she had her first son and drank heavily after her children were removed from her in this case. Noting Long had not attempted to get work, Butts commented that it seems like "you don't have any motivation." Long tearfully told the judge, "I am very sorry for everything that happened to my kids," Danielle M. Marr, who along with her husband have adopted them, did not buy it. She accused Long of faking her remorse and not accepting responsibility but instead blaming everything on Brett Fields, with whom she was living at the time in Jersey Shore. "The time to make a statement that child abuse is not OK is now," Marr told the judge. "It's out of hand. I am tired of watching TV and listening to the radio and seeing another person getting a light sentence. The kids deserve more." Long pleaded guilty Aug. 31 to endangering the welfare of children. That took place three days after Fields, the father of one of the boys, was sentenced to 6 to 12 years in state prison. He had pleaded guilty in July to charges of aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of children and statutory sexual assault. The latter was for having sex with Long before she was of age. READ MORE: Online petition urges judge to impose longer sentence in Pa. child abuse case Sasha Long told Butts her sister "does not deserve to walk the street" because she did not take care of her children. She disputed defense attorney Ryan Gardner's claim that Long was afraid to leave Fields. "I begged her to come live with me," Sasha Long said. Gardner claimed the relationship with Fields was abusive in that he would punch her and use vulgar language when she talked about leaving. Marr obtained 585 signatures on an online petition urging Butts to impose a sentence harsher than what was in the plea agreement. If the judge had done that, Long would have been permitted to withdraw her guilty plea. "I don't think anyone wants to go to trial," Butts said. The charge to which Long pleaded guilty accused her of violating a duty to care for two toddlers by failing to properly feed and bathe them between April 1 and May 21, 2016, when she was living in Jersey Shore. She also was accused of keeping the children in wet and dirty diapers, not reporting physical abuse by Fields and leaving them for several weeks with caretakers she did not know well. In arriving at a sentence, Butts said she considered Long had no criminal record, testified against Fields at his preliminary hearing and was ready to do the same had he gone to trial. At that hearing, Long testified Fields had thrown her then 18-month-old son across a room and had hit him with a closed fist and open hand multiple times. She also said Fields would hit her son in his crib and pick him up by the arm pits when he was angry. Marr described at Fields sentencing the long-term effect the abuse has had on all three boys, now ages 2, 3 and 4. "Because of the lack of care and protection she [Long] provided she is just as responsible for their injuries and future disabilities," she told Butts. Long gets credit for nearly two months she spent in jail in lieu of $250,000 bail. She was released when approved for supervised bail. Butts ordered restitution of $1,864 to Marr for expenses related to the children's medical treatment while she had them in foster care. The judge questioned whether those expenses qualify for restitution in a criminal case but said it would be up to Long to challenge her order. Add Pennsylvania to the growing list of states that have passed some form of gun control since a wave of mass shootings began to scar the nation over the last six years. The state Senate voted 43-5 Wednesday to pass a bill requiring defendants to surrender all guns in their possession upon the imposition of a contested protection from abuse order. The only 'no' votes were cast by Republicans Camera Bartolotta of Washington County, John Eichelberger of Blair County, Scott Hutchinson of Venango County, Elder Vogel of Beaver County and Kim Ward of Westmoreland County. Twenty-eight Republicans and 15 Democrats supported the measure. Sen. Vince Hughes, D-Philadelphia was absent from session Wednesday and Republican gubernatorial candidate Scott Wagner's seat is currently vacant. The state House passed the bill last week, so its next stop is with Gov. Tom Wolf. Wolf has pledged to sign the bill. While a small step to be sure - so small that even the National Rifle Association took a "neutral" position - it was the first gun control measure of any kind to have passed in the Pennsylvania General Assembly this decade. That wasn't lost on gun control supporters. "What a relief to finally get beyond the hand-wringing and actually make significant change in Pennsylvania law that will protect women, children and men," said Sen. Judy Schwank, D-Berks County. Others called Wednesday's victory the single-most significant gun control step taken by the Pennsylvania General Assembly since passage of legislation implementing the state's background check system in 1995. House Bill 2060 accomplishes a goal domestic violence advocates have been pursuing for more than a decade. Supporters cite it as significant because, for the first time in Pennsylvania: People convicted of misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence or subject to final restraining orders must surrender their guns within 24 hours. The court can do so in other cases if it finds it warranted. It eliminates the ability of that abuser to turn their guns over to family or friends. Any such safekeeping under the new bill would have to be either with local law enforcement, licensed gun dealers or commercial armories, or the defendant's attorney. Senate approval came after one last-ditch effort by some of the Senate's most-ardent gun rights advocates to broaden the safekeeping provision, but that amendment was defeated 39-9. In another provision, the time frame for the surrender of weapons was shortened to 24 hours. The bill was weakened in the House this summer to eliminate the mandatory surrender provision for defendants in protection from abuse cases who reached a consent agreement with their accusers to stop complained-of behaviors and, possibly, refrain from future contact. In those cases, judges would still have the discretion to order a surrender, but it would not be mandatory. It's potentially a significant step back in a state in which, according to court records, some 34,245 PFA orders were granted in 2016. It was not clear how many of those resulted from consent agreements. But for gun control proponents and advocates for getting tougher on domestic violence, that didn't diminish the joy over a rare win in a legislature that's strongly resisted most gun limits for years, and is more prone to take action to expand gun owners' rights. Noting there have 78 domestic violence-related homicides by gun this year, Sen. Tom Killion, a Delaware County Republican who championed the bill in the Senate, said the best feature of the bill is the requirement that guns be transferred to someone who runs the risk of loss of a license if they give them back to the owners while the protection orders are in effect. Perpetrators can easily take guns back from friends or relatives, Killion said, and then "they've shot children, they've shot women, they've shot men, and in many cases they kill themselves. "This is a good bill, and it's going to make Pennsylvania a safer place, and domestic violence victims will be able to sleep at night." Many believe this fall's votes also shows the ground has shifted, if only slightly, in a national debate that roared back to political prominence after the deaths of 17 at a high school in Parkland, Fla. in February. In the wake of the Parkland shooting, sources here noted, even the NRA agreed to be neutral on HB 2060, which meant support for it wouldn't be scored negatively in the association's grade for lawmakers. That provided essential political cover for lawmakers who like to tout their strong ratings with the NRA. However it came about, gun control advocates were pinching themselves over the win. "There was a recognition that firearms make domestic violence much more combustible and much more dangerous... and now we're taking steps to address it," said Shira Goodman, executive director of the gun control advocacy group CeaseFire PA. "Today marks a victory for safety." Editor's note: PennLive incorrectly reported Wednesday there had been an out-of-court settlement. The parties filed a stipulated motion to dismiss the suit that U.S. Middle District Judge Matthew W. Brann granted in such a way it cannot be refiled. The docket does not state that Pattiann Merrifield of Mill Hall withdrew her complaint. WILLIAMSPORT - The resolution of a federal lawsuit in which Lock Haven University was accused of forcing out older employees to avoid paying them retirement benefits they would receive at age 60 was due to the plaintiff withdrawing her complaint. Attempts to reach Pattiann Merrifield and her attorney to learn the reason the suit was dropped were unsuccessful. Judge Matthew W. Brann in July ordered mediation but was advised a month later those efforts failed. The suit was brought by Merrifield, of Mill Hall, who was fired from her clerk position Jan. 20, 2016, at age 58. A clerk since 2006, she claimed she was fired after she refused the option of early retirement. She says she was replaced by a 34-year-old. She accused the university of firing her to avoid paying the retirement benefits to which she would be entitled when she turned 60. The university contends Merrifield was terminated due to job performance issues. Attached to the court complaint were affidavits from two other former Lock Haven employees who claimed they were forced out like Merrifield. She initially sought to have her complaint certified as a class action but withdrew her motion moments before Brann, also in July, ruled it was premature. The judge at the same time dismissed some of the claims against Deana Hill, associate vice president of human resources, and the university. The suit also accused Lock Haven of failing to adequately adopt, post and implement procedures to respond to allegations of age discrimination. Marketplace Missions Movement Honored for Innovative Approach to World Evangelization Operation Mobilization USA's creative Scatter Global initiative recognized for opening doors for Christian professionals in countries closed to the gospel Contact: Gregg Wooding, 972-567-7660, gwooding@inchristcommunications.com ATLANTA, Oct. 3, 2018 /Christian Newswire/ -- An innovative movement that is breaking new ground in world evangelization through its unique job-market approach for reaching unreached nations has been honored by missions leaders. Photo: Andrew Scott, OM-USA President and CEO (second right), received this year's eXcelerate Award from Missio Nexus CEO Ted Esler (right). Also pictured: Mike Rufo, COO of Pioneers (left) and Jonathan Thiessen, OM-USA Senior Vice President and leader of the Scatter Global initiative. Scatter Global (www.scatterglobal.com) inspires, equips and places Christian professionalsfrom doctors and nurses, to engineers and hair stylistsin positions in countries closed to traditional missionary activity. The initiative was named this year's recipient of the eXcelerate Award, presented at the recent Missio Nexus conference in Orlando. Originated by Operation Mobilization USA (OM USA, www.omusa.org), and supported by a growing number of like-minded industry partners including Crossworld, CRU, Pioneers, SIM and Team, Scatter Global is focused on catalyzing an exponentially growing wave of new workers to the 3.1 billion people with no access to the gospel. "We are humbled to be counted among a list of previous eXcelerate award recipients that includes Wycliffe, The Jesus Film Project and The Seed Company," said Jonathan Thiessen, OM USA's senior vice president. "It serves as an encouraging affirmation of what we believe God is doing in our generation. A mass movement is poised to take their God-given skills, passions and experiences into global marketplaces, bringing the gospel and transformation to every sector of society." Indicators suggest that the world is ready for just such a movement. A majority of unreached people live in places that do not welcome missionaries, but are eager to receive Christian professionals in areas from healthcare and education, to technology and businessproviding an opportunity for skilled believers to interact with and influence people through the excellence of their work. Among those who have been able to use their skills as passports to closed countries in the Scatter Global approach is Mary, an African nurse who took a job at a large hospital in an Arab nation. It did not take her long to so impress her employers with her approach and demeanour that she was asked to train both nurses and physicians. This led to the hospital and its CEO becoming the first in that region to win an international award for excellence. Mary was soon promoted to oversee training for all 5,000 staff. Because of her value to the organization, Mary was given unprecedented permission to lead Bible studies and has impacted many over the last 17 years. In another example, Elizabeth, a hairdresser and believer from Morocco took a job in another Arab nation and over time developed trusting relationships with her clients. Eventually one client who had been unable to conceive asked Elizabeth to pray for her. When she did conceive, the word spread, opening the door for Elizabeth to share the gospel with other clients. She now meets regularly with 70 new believers, continues to serve humbly in her profession and is changing her community through the integration of word and deed. "These stories and many more like them are the result of extraordinary collaboration, ongoing innovation and exponential thinking by manythe kind that will be necessary for us to keep pace with the rate of global change," said Thiessen. "We are grateful for the groundswell of partner organizations, churches and individuals that have rallied around the marketplace ministry effort." The Scatter Global initiative will also be in the spotlight at the "Rethink Church/Rethink Mission" event at McLean Bible Church in Vienna, Va., on Oct. 12. Joining bestselling authors David Platt and Francis Chan as keynote speaker will be Andrew Scott, OM-USA's president/CEO and author of Scatter: Go Therefore and Take Your Job With You (Moody Publishers). Partnering with OM-USA in the Scatter Global initiative are Crossworld (www.crossworld.org), CRU (www.cru.org), Pioneers (www.pioneers.org), SIM (www.sim.org), Team (www.team.org) and LiveDead (www.livedead.org). Operation Mobilization (www.omusa.org) mobilizes Jesus followers to share the knowledge of Jesus and his love with every generation in every nation. Founded in 1957 by George Verwer and with U.S. headquarters in metro Atlanta, Ga., the group partners with thousands of workers in more than 110 countries to transform lives, build communities and restore hope. OM's Scatter Global initiative was launched in 2016 in response to growing concern that most missions efforts are currently in places where the gospel is already available, while more geographically, culturally and religiously challenging parts of the world remain unreached. Share Tweet Upper Allen Township police said they arrested a 15-year-old boy Tuesday in the rape of a 5-year-old child. Police did not identify the teen, but said he was charged with rape of a child, statutory sexual assault, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, sexual assault, aggravated indecent assault, indecent assault and unlawful contact with a minor. They did not say whether he was charged as an adult or a minor. Officers were called to a hospital emergency room on Friday, Sept. 28, for a report of a 5-year-old who was sexually assaulted, police said. Through an investigation, police determined the teen committed the rape, so he was arrested Tuesday and turned over to Cumberland County Juvenile Probation. The report is in. Rachel Mitchell, the sex crimes prosecutor who questioned Dr. Christine Blasey Ford and Judge Brett Kavanaugh during last week's Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, has concluded that not only is the evidence insufficient to justify criminal charges of sexual assault, it doesn't even rise to the much lower level needed to bring a civil suit. Marc A. Scaringi This is a stunning rebuke of Dr. Ford and the allegations she has made that Judge Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her 36-years ago. The rebuke of Dr. Ford is even more stunning considering Mitchell is an award-winning sexual assault prosecutor and chief of the Special Victims Division in Maricopa County, Arizona. She's been lauded by former Democratic Governor and Obama cabinet official, Janet Napolitano, for her strong advocacy on behalf of sexual assault victims. From calling for stronger laws against sexual assault and for changes in the courtroom to make them more comfortable for victims, one couldn't ask for a prosecutor more sensitive to victims. With all those accolades and with the entire media and Democratic Party screaming that Dr. Ford must be "believed" because she's a woman, it's no wonder Mitchell conducted a velvet-glove, hands-off examination of Dr. Ford. In Mitchell's defense, the structure of the hearing made it impossible to conduct a proper examination. The search for the truth, which is the purpose of direct and cross-examination, was interrupted every five minutes first by Democratic then by Republican senators pontificating and posturing for the cameras. In any event, Mitchell did have several segments during which she chose not to ask basic questions designed to test the credibility of Dr. Ford. Notably, Mitchell did not examine Dr. Ford as to her bias, prejudice, or other motive that might affect her testimony. In a real hearing, the failure to cross-examine a witness as to bias and motive could subject an attorney to a claim for malpractice. It's basic, standard stuff that is part of most every civil and criminal trial. Any defense attorney worth her salt would have conducted this examination; and would have had a field day with Dr. Ford. How about these simple questions? Dr. Ford, isn't it true that you're a registered Democrat? Isn't it true that you've regularly donated to Democratic political candidates and the Democratic Party? Isn't it true that you donated to the Bernie Sanders presidential campaign? Isn't it true that you've attended a "Women's March" in which the speakers spoke out against President Trump? Isn't it true that you've donned the "p***y hat" at those marches? Isn't it true that you've signed letters denouncing President Trump's policies as "inhumane"? The answers to all those questions are "yes" and they're easily proven. But they weren't asked. Clearly, Mitchell was pulling her punches to appear "fair" to the victim. Remember, female victims must be "believed." Yet even though Mitchell was fighting with one hand tied behind her back and the other in a powderpuff glove, she managed to land some blows. Mitchell did well with the map showing the eight-mile distance, as "the crow flies," from the Columbia Country Club to Blasey Ford's home. Ford couldn't remember how she got to or home from the house party after she claims to have run out of the house after the alleged assault. That's simply not credible. She had no car and no mobile phone; she's in the suburbs. How did she get there or home? No one knows. Mitchell also did a nice job exposing Dr. Ford's claim that the alleged sexual assault prevents her from flying. Dr. Ford maintains that she suffers from anxiety, claustrophobia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and that these disorders were either "caused" or "contributed to" by the alleged sexual assault. Mitchell explains that "the date of the hearing was delayed because the Committee was informed that her symptoms prevent her from flying. Yet during her testimony Ford agreed that she flies 'fairly frequently for [her] hobbies and ... work.' She flies to the mid-Atlantic at least once a year to visit her family. She has flown to Hawaii, French Polynesia, and Costa Rica. She also flew to Washington, D.C. for the hearing." Notably, many point out the flaw in Dr. Ford's case is that she had no witnesses to corroborate her account. However, a victim does not need corroborating witnesses. Many valid convictions occur after a "he said-she said" trial in which there is no corroborating evidence. Indeed, Dr. Ford had no corroboration. But, she still needed to have been credible. Dr. Ford wasn't. Jurors are instructed to assess the witness's credibility; there's no exception for those witnesses who are or identify as female. Had Dr. Ford been cross-examined as to her bias and motive, we would have come to the truth. It appears Dr. Ford, like many activist Democrats, is willing to do whatever it takes to derail the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the U.S. Supreme Court and to destroy the presidency of Donald J. Trump. PennLive Opinion contributor Marc A. Scaringi is an attorney and radio host. His work appears biweekly. Beaver Island plane crash leaves child as only survivor 4 died, included the pilot, in a plane crash on Beaver Island on Nov. 13. The only survivor was a little girl in critical condition. Pine Bluffs, Wyoming Lindsay Forepaugh, the Chief Financial Officer of High West Energy, recently completed her first week as part of the prestigious Nebraska LEAD (Leadership Education/Action Development) program. Nebraska LEAD is the state's premier agricultural leadership development program. It attracts a large number of accomplished applicants every year, and from that talent pool, no more than 30 women and men are chosen to participate. "I am honored to be selected as one of the Nebraska LEAD fellows," said Forepaugh, who completed her first session of the program on Sept. 20 at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. "Over the next two years, this program will provide me with countless valuable opportunities to gain experience and perspectives from agriculturalists in Nebraska, the U.S., and those I encounter during our international seminar." "The Nebraska LEAD Program was formed because of the need to develop the next generation of leaders for Nebraska agriculture and beyond," said program director Terry Hejny. "We assist our participants in discovering what they are truly passionate about and then fast-track them into positions of leadership." Forepaugh holds a Bachelors of Science degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Economics from Nichols College, and a Masters in Business Administration degree with an emphasis in Finance from College of Santa Fe. After spending the first chapter of her career distinguishing herself in the oil and gas industry, she joined High West Energy as the CFO about five years ago. Based on Nebraska LEAD's track record, this program could serve as a springboard to an even brighter future for Forepaugh. "Many of our alums go on to serve as state senators, on state commodity check-off boards, state grower association boards and become involved in county government," said Hejny. "The strength of our program is that our graduates go back to their communities rural or urban, big or small and make a difference. They get involved!" Forepaugh, a resident of Kimball, Nebraska, is no stranger to getting involved. She is already an active and dedicated member of her community. Currently she serves as: The Secretary and Treasurer for the Kiwanis Club of Kimball - Banner Counties A board member of the Kimball County Visitors Committee President of the Friends of the Kimball Library Board A member of the National Bison Association and the Rocky Mountain Bison Association. Forepaugh and the rest of the LEAD Fellows will participate in 12 monthly three-day seminars across Nebraska, a 10-day national study/travel seminar, and a two-week international study/travel seminar. The goal of the program is to develop problem solvers, decision makers and spokespersons for agriculture and Nebraska. "My goal is to take my experiences over the next two years and hopefully help the next generation of leaders by sharing those experiences with the communities where I live and work," said Forepaugh. The lights will go out in Pine Bluffs for several hours the night of Tuesday, October 30. Thats due in part to the towns electrical infrastructure being in desperate need of repair, town officials say. Specifically, a substation that the town relies on is outdated and sustained severe damage during the 2016 hailstorm. Because a substation failure would be catastrophic, repairs are planned for the night of October 30. Without these substation upgrades, our system is very vulnerable to a town-wide power outage that were not prepared for, said Pine Bluffs Town Treasurer Kim Patterson. It would be an emergency and it would potentially result in power being out for extreme periods of time that we really dont want to have to worry about. Pine Bluffs Public Works Director Jerry Lamb said of the three transformers the electricity for the town comes in from were built in 1968 and 1971. Those took a real big beating in the hailstorm. It beat all the gauges off and were getting some water in the oil, Lamb said. Its time. it could go tomorrow. Patterson said if everything goes to schedule the outage will last five to six hours. In a worst case scenario, the outage would last eight hours. In order to make that happen, they are staging everything ahead of time. They are pre-building any components that can be built ahead of time, Patterson said. We understand it will cause a disruption to everybody who lives in the community, she added. But we have to think of the alternative. Texas Trail Market General Manager Bill Cushing said he worried that, if something went wrong during the project, food stored in coolers and freezers would go bad. Im just worried. We cant guarantee anything. I just hope this goes as quickly as possible, he said. If something went wrong and the outage lasted longer than anticipated, Cushing said the store would be on the hook for thousands of dollars in spoilage. Cushing said the store has insurance that would partially recoup losses. A former council member, Cushing said he understands the towns reasoning for the planned power outage. But, if something were to go wrong, it could ruin the towns one grocery store. Council Member Mike Ragsdale suggested finding the store a generator to use in an emergency. However, Texas Trail Market is by far the largest power consumer in Pine Bluffs, so it would need to be quite large. The outage is expected to begin at 10 p.m. the night of October 30. it will be a joint effort between High West Energy and the Town of Pine Bluffs Public Works Department. ***** Council Member Janna Kestner told members that the End of the Trail Kite Festival held Saturday was a success. Kestner said more than 200 people attended the festival, which is in its second year. The festival will become an annual occasion that she hopes to see grow. Kite flyers from Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska and New Mexico were in attendance along with several local vendors. 642 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard WASHINGTON (Reuters) U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in tax schemes that included cases of fraud in which he and his siblings helped their parents dodge taxes, the New York Times reported on Tuesday. The Times investigation, which a Trump lawyer said was inaccurate, showed Trump received the equivalent today of at least $413 million from his fathers real estate business. The newspaper cited a vast trove of confidential tax return and financial records. The Times reported that much of that fortune came to Trump because he helped his parents evade taxes, setting up a fake corporation with his siblings to disguise millions of dollars in gifts from their parents. During his presidential campaign, Trump promoted himself as a self-made real estate mogul who started out with only a very small loan from his businessman father, Fred Trump. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report. Reuters has not been able to verify the report. Trump lawyer Charles Harder told the Times: President Trump had virtually no involvement whatsoever with these matters. Harder added: The affairs were handled by other Trump family members who were not experts themselves and therefore relied entirely upon the aforementioned licensed professionals to ensure full compliance with the law. The New York State Tax Department is looking into the allegations, CNBC reported, citing a spokesman for the department. Citing tax experts, the Times reported it was unlikely Trump would face criminal prosecution because the acts were past the statute of limitations. There is no time limit, however, on civil fines for tax fraud, according to the paper. The Times reported that its findings were based on more than 200 tax returns from Fred Trump, his companies and various Trump partnerships and trusts. The records did not include Donald Trumps personal tax returns. Unlike other White House candidates and presidents in recent decades, Trump has declined to release his tax returns. According to the newspaper, the report was also based on interviews with Fred Trumps former employees and advisers and more than 100,000 pages of documents describing the inner workings of his business empire. The investigation also draws on tens of thousands of pages of confidential records bank statements, financial audits, accounting ledgers, cash disbursement reports, invoices and canceled checks, according to the Times. (Reporting by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Peter Cooney) 421 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard By Sarah N. Lynch and Lisa Lambert WASHINGTON (Reuters) Four men linked to a white supremacist group were arrested on Tuesday in connection with the white nationalist rally that turned deadly in Charlottesville, Virginia, last year, authorities said. Benjamin Drake Daley, 25, Michael Paul Miselis, 29, Thomas Walter Gillen, 34, and Cole Evan White, 24, were arrested in California and were to be transported to Charlottesville after making initial appearances in federal courts in California on Tuesday, U.S. Attorney Thomas Cullen said at a news conference. They were each charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the federal riots statute and one count of violating the federal riots statute. U.S. Justice Department officials said the men had traveled from California to incite a riot and bring violence to the August 2017 rally in the Virginia college town. They said the men were part of an organized, militant white supremacist group, named in the criminal complaint as the Rise Above Movement. Each man faces 10 years in prison if found guilty, according to authorities. This case should serve as another example of the Department of Justices commitment to protecting the life, liberty, and civil rights of all our citizens, Cullen said. Reuters could not immediately ascertain if the men had retained counsel. Cullen said he expected a trial could start as soon as the end of the year. Authorities decided the mens alleged activities could be prosecuted under a federal statute on riots, instead of laws prohibiting hate crimes, but Cullen said there may be other charges against them. Hundreds of people descended on Charlottesville in August 2017 to protest the removal of a statue honoring Robert E. Lee, a commander of the Confederate Army in the U.S. Civil War, in what was billed as a Unite the Right rally. The 2017 rally drew international attention when James Alex Fields Jr. was accused of driving into a group of people, leaving 32-year-old Heather Heyer dead and dozens injured. Fields was charged with the killing in June. He has pleaded not guilty. At the time of the rally, President Donald Trump was condemned by Democratic and Republican political leaders for saying that many sides were to blame for the violence. According to the criminal complaint, which was filed under seal in August, the FBI used open-source research, including the Rise Above Movements public Twitter page, to help investigate the four defendants. The FBI alleged in the complaint that the men had previously taken part in acts of violence at rallies in Huntington Beach and Berkeley, California. (Reporting by Lisa Lambert and Sarah N. Lynch; Editing by Bill Trott, Toni Reinhold) 2.1k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Yesterday the New York Times dropped a bombshell on the political world when it published a lengthy article about Donald Trumps finances, including how he inherited hundreds of millions of dollars and committed massive amounts of tax fraud. As the article said: The president has long sold himself as a self-made billionaire, but a Times investigation found that he received at least $413 million in todays dollars from his fathers real estate empire, much of it through tax dodges in the 1990s. The political ramifications of the article wont be known for some time. Many Trump supporters will look at the article and say it just shows how smart Trump is in business. After the article was published, Showtime announced that is has produced a new documentary film centered on the New York Times report about Trump and his family. The film follows a team of New York Times investigative reporters through their diligent and intense efforts in uncovering the information that led to this exclusive report, according to a news release distributed by Showtime. The documentary is part of the Showtime series about journalism called The Fourth Estate, which premiered on the channel earlier this year. The name of the segment on Trump is called The Family Business: Trump and Taxes. It will appear on Showtime on Sunday, Oct. 7, at 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time. To create the film, a crew was embedded for more than a year with Times investigative reporters David Barstow, Russell Buettner and Susanne Craig. The documentary goes into detail about the three journalists diligent efforts to research and report on the alleged Trump family tax scheme. According to the Showtime press release: Mr. Trump has proclaimed himself to be a self-made billionaire but what these reporters found offers a very different account, based on tens of thousands of pages of financial documents they obtained, including more than 200 Trump family tax returns. Many legal and tax issues surrounding the article in the Times have not been resolved. Its unclear what kind of legal exposure the president might face, either while in office or after he leaves. Last night New York state tax officials announced they are vigorously reviewing the allegations that Trump received hundreds of millions of dollars from his father Fred Trumps New York real estate business via what the paper deemed questionable tax practices. According to the Times, Trumps parents left over $1 billion to their children. Under tax laws in effect at the time, they should have owed approximately $550 million in taxes at the time of their deaths. However, the Times reported that the Trumps only paid $52.2 million in taxes. The article also points out that the saving of nearly $500 million taxes was accomplished through fraudulent means. In response to the article, the presidents attorney, Charles Harder, called the Times allegations of tax evasion 100 percent false. He also said that President Trump had virtually no involvement in implementing the tax strategies the family deployed. The presidents brother, Robert Trump, told the Times that All appropriate gift and estate tax returns were filed, and the required taxes were paid. Then-candidate Trump drew criticism for not releasing his tax returns during the 2016 campaign. Trump said he was under audit and would not release his returns until the audit was completed. 1.7k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Law clerks usually love their bosses and have undying loyalty to them for their entire lives. But yesterday three former law clerks for Brett Kavanaugh wrote the Senate Judiciary Committee saying they are deeply troubled by the allegations of sexual assault against him. In a letter to the Judiciary panel on Tuesday, former clerks Will Dreher, Bridget Fahey and Rakim Brooks said that an expanded FBI investigation into allegations from Dr. Christine Ford and other women is a good idea We write to clarify that, like many Americans, we have been deeply troubled by those allegations and the events surrounding them and were encouraged by the initiation of a formal FBI investigation, the three wrote in their letter. We hope, for the good of everyone involved, that the investigation will be independent and thorough, they continued. Three former Kavanaugh clerks who previously said he was great just wrote to the Judiciary Committee to clarify that they are deeply troubled by the allegations against him. In related news, three former Kavanaugh clerks who previously said he was great just wrote to the Judiciary Committee to clarify that they are "deeply troubled" by the allegations against him. pic.twitter.com/9s8Bb7Uhtx Jennifer Bendery (@jbendery) October 2, 2018 In a related development yesterday, two former law school classmates of Brett Kavanaughs who previously supported him wrote to the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday to say they are withdrawing their support for him because of the nature of his testimony before the committee. Two former Yale classmates of Kavanaughs who previously vouched for him just wrote to the Senate Judiciary Committee to note they are withdrawing their support because of the nature of Judge Kavanaughs testimony. Two former Yale classmates of Kavanaugh's who previously vouched for him just wrote to the Senate Judiciary Committee to note they are withdrawing their support because of "the nature of Judge Kavanaughs testimony." pic.twitter.com/b0DEQIbYQF Jennifer Bendery (@jbendery) October 2, 2018 Under the current circumstances, we fear that partisanship has injected itself into Judge Kavanaughs candidacy, Michael J. Proctor and Mark Osler wrote in a letter to Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), the committees chairman and ranking member, respectively. That, and the lack of judicial temperament displayed on September 27 hearing, cause us to withdraw our support. The Judiciary panel did not respond to press requests concerning the incidents on Tuesday night. Kavanaughs nomination is expected to be voted on by the full Senate this week after the FBI investigation is included and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell can schedule a floor vote. What I can tell you with certainty is well have an FBI report this week and well have a vote this week, McConnell said Tuesday, adding that only senators would have access to the FBIs report once it is issued. 601 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Lawyers for two of the women who have accused Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexual assault yesterday expressed their displeasure with the way the FBI probe into Kavanaugh is being conducted. They said they believe the FBI is not conducting a thorough investigation. It is clear that Senate Republican leaders are focused on holding a Senate vote on Kavanaughs confirmation later this week. As a result, they limited the scope of the probe as well as the amount of time available for the FBI to do its work. Dr. Christine Fords lawyers sent a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray demanding to know why the FBI has not interviewed their client. They said she has offered to cooperate in the FBIs reopened background investigation of Kavanaugh but she has been ignored. Also Tuesday, John Clune, the attorney for Deborah Ramirez, said he has seen no evidence that the FBI has contacted any of the additional witnesses she told them about. Ramirez gave the FBI the names of 20 people who may be able to back up her story that Kavanaugh exposed himself to her when they were Yale freshmen. Ramirez was interviewed by the FBI on Sunday and gave FBI agents the witnesses contact numbers. Clune said he is very unhappy that the bureau is not conducting or not being permitted to conduct a serious investigation. The FBI investigation is crucial to win the support of several wavering senators including three Republicans for Kavanaughs nomination. Republican senators Jeff Flake, Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins initially requested the additional FBI work to answer many questions about Kavanaugh that were left unanswered during his Senate testimony. If they do not believe that the FBI investigation was accurate and thorough then it is not clear what they will do. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told reporters that I can tell you with certainty that the FBI report will be finished and the Senate will vote this week. He also said it shouldnt take long for his colleagues to read the report. That will not be used as another reason for delay, I can tell you that, McConnell said. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said he wants senators to receive an FBI briefing on its findings 24 hours in advance of the first procedural vote on Kavanaugh, which could happen very soon. When Trump ordered the FBI investigation last week he set a deadline of this Friday for the probes completion. If Trump and McConnell have their way, the sham FBI investigation will be wrapped up soon before all the witnesses have been interviewed. This will allow them (possibly) to have a quick vote on Kavanaughs confirmation. The only question that remains is whether or not Jeff Flake, Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins will go along with the sham or not. If they are people of integrity they will see through what has happened and refuse to vote to confirm Brett Kavanaugh to the U.S. Supreme Court. WASHINGTON (Reuters) The No. 2 Senate Republican, John Cornyn, said the FBIs report on sexual misconduct allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh could come as soon as Wednesday. My hope is that well see it soon perhaps as soon as today, Cornyn told reporters at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday afternoon. (Reporting by Amanda Becker; Writing by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Lisa Lambert) Food editor and chief critic Eating all of the chicken livers just as fast as I can. Get the SC business stories that matter. Our newsletter catches you up with all the business stories that are shaping Charleston and South Carolina every Monday and Thursday at noon. Get ahead with us - it's free. Kalyn Oyer is a Charleston native who covers arts & entertainment and food & bev for The Post and Courier. She's a music festival & concert photographer and used to write about music for the Charleston City Paper, among other publications. Hicks column: Charleston needs to keep its 526 friends close, because its enemies are closer Gregory Yee covers the city of Charleston. He's a native Angeleno and previously covered crime and courts for the Press-Telegram in Long Beach, CA. He studied journalism and Spanish literature at the University of California, Irvine. Paul Bowers is an education reporter and father of three living in North Charleston. He previously worked at the Charleston City Paper, where he was twice named South Carolina Journalist of the Year in the weekly category. Rep. Jerry Govan (right) faced assault charges for a scuffle with Rep. Gilda Cobb Hunter in the South Carolina Statehouse last year. Provided Editorials represent the institutional view of the newspaper. They are written and edited by the editorial staff, which operates separately from the news department. Editorial writers are not involved in newsroom operations. Attorney Matthew Richardson, left, argued Wednesday to Circuit Judge Clifton Newman that a state grand jury report about the long-running Statehouse corruption probe should not be released publicly due to concerns about harming the reputations of people mentioned in it. Newman ruled that the report should be released, but gave Richardson and other attorneys two days to propose redactions. Jamie Lovegrove/Staff Researchers predict agriculture trade distruptions will put a $1 billion to $2 billion hit on Iowas economy over the next year and it could get worse with the most recent round of tariffs the United States and China have slapped on each others goods. That could hurt Iowa not only in immediate term, but potentially diminishing its long-term global reach. "History has shown that the worlds farmers dont just sit back and wait for countries to settle their differences," John Crespi, interim director of the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development at Iowa State University, said. "They ring the doorbell and offer their products." The center recently published research showing trade disputes could hit agriculture-heavy Iowa particularly hard, amounting to gross state product losses between $1 billion and $2 billion over the next 12 months. Iowas 2017 gross state product was $190 billion, and the U.S. Census Bureau put its export value for 2017 at $13.4 billion, about 7 percent of that $190 billion total. Iowas top exports include corn, at $1.18 billion; tractors at $747 million; and fresh and chilled pork at $442 million, according to the bureau. In its tracking of export destinations, Canada is the top for Iowa receiving $4.08 billion in Iowa products, followed by Mexico with $2.26 billion, Japan at $1 billion, and China and Germany rounding out the top five, according to the ISU study. That makes recent U.S. trade disputes, tariffs tit-for-tat, and uncertainties with the likes of Canada, Mexico, and China particularly impactful for Iowans. "American farmers are always on the front lines of trade wars," Crespi said. Overall losses to Iowas $5.2 billion soybean industry are projected between $159 million and $891 million, according to the ISU research, with average revenue loss across all models of $545 million; Overall losses to its $8.5 billion corn industry are expected between $90 million and $579 million, with average revenue loss of $333 million; Overall losses to Iowas $7.1 billion pork and hog industry are expected between $558 million and $955 million, with average revenue loss of $776 million; And a 2 percent drop in ethanol prices is projected to amount to about $105 million in lost revenue for Iowas ethanol producers. Iowa State researchers, in their report, note the trade disruptions shouldnt have come as a surprise to anyone as President Donald Trump long has touted trade rebalancing as a priority. Since taking office, hes taken steps to renegotiate NAFTA and imposed escalating tariffs on Chinese goods which the Asian power has countered in kind. The Chinese response to U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs in March had the biggest impact on Iowa, as they included pork products and ethanol. The back and forth escalated the hurt, although Trumps most recent tariffs on Chinese goods in September, and the response, have not been calculated into the ISU research. Crespi said they likely will augment the impact slightly, but are unlikely to have as big an impact as the ag-specific goods. And, even if the trade war dissipates over time and the countries emerge with new agreements, the United States and its producers including Iowans could have forever lost footing in the international marketplace, according to Crespi. "The harder question is what happens in two, three or 10 years if the trade wars continue?" Crespi said. "You could find that the U.S. loses so much market share that a decade from now, even if you get rid of the tariffs, the U.S. may be a smaller player." The research highlighted examples of long-term world market share impacts, including fallout from the Russian grain embargo in the 1980s and a 2009 dispute with China. During the U.S. embargo in the 1980s, European farmers stepped up and gained much of the trade American farmers lost, according to the ISU research. The 2009 trade fight with China caused the United States to lose a "significant portion of its China poultry trade to Brazil and the European Union." "Today," according to the researchers, "soybean growers are already facing a similar situation. For decades, U.S. soybeans set the price to which soybeans grown in other countries were marked. Currently, U.S. soybeans are selling on the world market at a discount to Brazilian soybeans." On top of lost agricultural revenue, trade disputes can and are translating to lost labor and tax revenue for the state. The ISU research found labor income declines in the corn, soybean, and hog industries could range from $245 million to $484 million, which it reports is enough to support 9,300 to 12,300 jobs. As far as Iowa tax revenue including personal income and sales taxes losses could range between $111 million to $146 million. Federal assistance could cushion that blow, but losses still would span $75 million to $110 million, according to the ISU findings. "Could the rest of the economy grow substantially and offset these losses? Its possible," Crespi said. "But dont forget recessions will happen again. One hundred million dollars might seem affordable when times are good, but when times are bad, thats when the tough decisions have to be made." Sit down to a warm bowl of soup while you help local individuals and families in need at Channel Ones 14th annual Empty Bowls. "A ticket gets you a lunch of soup and bread and a hand-painted ceramic bowl to take home as a memento of the event and a reminder of those in our community who dont have enough to eat," said Virginia Merritt, executive director Channel One Regional Food Bank. "The soup is donated by local restaurants and served by local celebrities. The bowls are painted by local individuals, businesses and service groups. This event really is a community-wide effort." Held at Mayo Civic Center, the event is designed to raise funds for and awareness about local individuals and families in need. "Channel Ones food bank and food shelf serve more than 100,000 people in a 14-county region," said Merritt. "Last year we served more than 10 million pounds of food, more than 3 million pounds of that was at our Olmsted County food shelf. Seventy-four percent of the families who visit our food shelf are working families they have someone in the family who is working. "There is a large working poor population. People who are working hard, working consistently, but still cant make ends meet." Tickets are available online, at Color Me Mine or at Think Mutual Bank for $10 per individual, $30 for families or at the door for $15 per individual and $35 for families. "Based on last years numbers we expect about 1,300 will attend," said Merritt. "All the money raised goes toward feeding people in need through our food bank and food shelf. For each dollar we raise at Empty Bowls we can provide four meals to local individuals and families in need." Black box recovered from sunken Air Niugini plane PHOTO CAP: RESCUE: U.S. Navy sailors from Underwater Construction Team 2 assist local authorities in evacuating the passengers and crew of the crashed Air Niugini flight 73 on its approach to Chuuk International Airport in the Federated States of Micronesia on Sept. 28. Photo courtesy of U.S. Navy Lt. Zach Niezgodski Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. By Kevin Kerrigan | The Guam Daily Post The flight data recorder has been recovered from the sunken Air Niugini Boeing 737 that crashed in the Chuuk Lagoon, short of the runway at Chuuk International Airport last Friday. According to media reports in Papua New Guinea, Civil Aviation Minister Alfred Manase told reporters in Port Moresby on Tuesday night that U.S. Navy divers had recovered the black box that morning. Port Moresby's Post-Courier quotes Manase as saying that a further examination of the plane was temporarily suspended "due to the contamination of the water from leaking aircraft fuel." He said he expected it will be safe enough for divers to resume their inspection of the aircraft Wednesday, when they will try and recover the cockpit voice recorder and other recording devices from the plane. Manase said the recorders will be brought to a laboratory in Port Moresby, accompanied by Federated States of Micronesia investigators, for data downloading and analysis. Passenger's body found inside aircraft He also confirmed that the body of the one passenger who died in the crash was found inside the aircraft and not in any other area of the lagoon. "The body was taken to the Chuuk State Hospital," he told the Post-Courier. "The FSM government is notifying the country of nationality through its Foreign Affairs Department, and Air Niugini is arranging the repatriation of the deceased once next of kin has been notified." The name of the deceased passenger has not been released by Air Niugini. LIMERICK A man has died of his injuries after his motorcycle crashed into a utility pole late Sunday night, Sept. 30. The driver, identified by police as Jacob Focht, 21, of Oley, was pronounced dead early Monday morning in Pottstown Hospital. Focht had been wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, police said. Police said officers arrived at the 400 block of Swamp Pike at around 10:06 p.m. Sunday to find a 2006 Kawasaki motorcycle had crashed into a utility pole. Authorities said in a report Tuesday the preliminary investigation found that Focht was traveling southbound on Swamp Pike when he attempted to navigate a curve in the road. The motorcycle then left the road and struck the utility pole. Police were assisted on scene by New Hanover Township Police, Trappe Ambulance and Limerick Township Fire Departments. NORRISTOWN A Lower Salford man is on his way to state prison after he admitted he was driving under the influence of drugs when he struck and injured a woman rollerblading on a Skippack roadway. Daniel Michael Johnson, 45, of the 200 block of Danielle Drive, was sentenced in Montgomery County Court to 21/2 to eight years in a state correctional facility after he pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated assault by a vehicle while driving under the influence of a controlled substance and DUI in connection with the 6:14 p.m. April 16, 2017, incident on Lucon Road, just south of Township Line Road, in Skippack. Judge William R. Carpenter also ordered Johnson to complete 50 hours of community service within two years of his release from prison. Johnson also must pay $45,579 in restitution to the Skippack woman who was injured. The investigation began when state police at Skippack were dispatched to the Lucon Road location for a reported crash and found a 2011 Volkswagen Jetta, with damage to the passenger side headlamp and windshield, in the northbound lane of the roadway. Police also found a female lying on the grass just off the east side of the roadway, according to the criminal complaint filed by state police Trooper Kevin Kassel. The unresponsive victim was lying on her left side, had shallow breath, a low pulse and was being treated by ambulance personnel. The victim sustained head trauma and blood covering her face, Kassel wrote in the arrest affidavit. The victim was airlifted to a hospital in Lehigh County for emergency treatment. Johnson, who had been driving the Jetta, was standing near the victim and he stated to police, Just tell me she is going to be ok, according to the criminal complaint. Kassel said Johnson was erratic and rambling. The subsequent investigation determined Johnsons Jetta was traveling northbound on Lucon Road when it struck the victim, who had been rollerblading on the northbound shoulder of the roadway. The Jetta made impact with the pedestrians left leg and head, Kassel alleged. During an initial interview, Johnson told police he was coming from a friends house and was on his way home and only recalled, bam, and saw my windshield cracked, according to the arrest affidavit. Police asked Johnson to complete field sobriety tests and at that time police observed indicators of an operator under the influence of narcotics. Johnson was transported to a local hospital for a blood draw. During a second interview, Johnson admitted that he consumed methamphetamine Friday night through Saturday morning, slept all Saturday into Sunday and woke up to go home prior to the crash, according to the criminal complaint. The crash occurred Sunday evening. Johnson related he had been messing around with the sunroof when the window cracked and he saw her (the victim) in the rear view mirror, Kassel wrote in the arrest affidavit. Blood tests revealed positive findings for methamphetamine and amphetamine in Johnsons system, police alleged. Police said an inspection of the Jetta found no mechanical problems or conditions that could have contributed to the crash. An accident reconstruction investigation was conducted by a state police trooper from the Reading barracks who considered a visibility issue and determined an alert driver should have observed a pedestrian in the roadway. The decision by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Charles Grassley to have Arizona sex crimes prosecutor Rachel Mitchell question Christine Blasey Ford may well be remembered as a brilliant and quite possibly pivotal choice. No doubt, allowing Mitchell to ask questions instead of Republican senators served a defensive purpose, avoiding the spectacle of a bunch of old, white men publicly questioning a woman who says she was a victim of sexual abuse. But Mitchells methodical, genial approach left many supporters of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh deeply frustrated, with some complaining that Mitchell was not laying a glove on Ford. That view is wrong. First, the audience for Mitchells questions was not the media or even the general public. It was the three Republican senators who will determine Judge Kavanaughs fate: Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Jeff Flake of Arizona. And it turns out that Mitchells orderly questioning actually elicited a lot of information that undermined Fords case against Kavanaugh. This was not obvious during the hearing, because Mitchell was not able to deliver a summation. But she was able to do so later, first during a closed-door meeting of Republican senators and then in a memorandum, in which she explains why, based on her quarter-century of experience prosecuting sex crimes, no reasonable prosecutor would bring this case based on the evidence before the Committee. To begin with, Mitchell lays out how Ford had not offered a consistent account of when the alleged assault happened or her age when it happened, and how her account of who was at the party has been inconsistent. For example, Mitchell points out that Ford listed Patrick PJ Smyth to the polygrapher and in her July 6 text to a Post reporter, but she did not list Leland Keyser even though they are good friends. Leland Keysers presence should have been more memorable than PJ Smyths. Ford has no memory of key details of the night in question details that could help corroborate her account, Mitchell writes. Ford does not remember who invited her to the gathering, how she heard about it, how she got there, or where that house was located with any specificity. Most importantly, Mitchell writes, she does not remember how she got from the party back to her house. Her inability to remember this detail raises significant questions. Given that this all took place before cell phones, arranging a ride home would not have been easy. Furthermore, Mitchell notes, Ford testified that her friend Leland, apparently the only other girl at the party, did not follow up with Dr. Ford after the party to ask why she had suddenly disappeared. This seems highly unlikely. And, Mitchell demonstrates, Fords inconsistencies are not limited to events three decades ago. For example, Ford delayed the hearing because she said her symptoms prevented her from flying from California to Washington, but then acknowledged under questioning that she flies to the East Coast at least once a year to visit her family, and has flown to Hawaii, French Polynesia and Costa Rica for hobbies and vacations. Moreover, Mitchell points out, Ford also testified that she was not clear that Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, had offered to send committee investigators to interview her in California. Either this statement under oath was untrue or her attorneys failed to share Grassleys offer with her which is a serious violation of the American Bar Associations rules of professional conduct. Mitchell also shows that Dr. Ford struggled to remember her interactions with The Post, which wrote that she provided portions of her therapists notes to a reporter. But in her testimony, Ford could not recall if she showed The Post full or partial therapist notes or her own summary of those notes. She could not remember whether she took a polygraph the day of her grandmothers funeral or the day after. She was unsure whether she was videotaped or recorded during the polygraph. She did not explain how she knew to call the receptionist at her congresswomans office but could not figure out how to contact her senator, Dianne Feinstein, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee. Fords supporters say it is unfair to pick apart her testimony, because victims of sexual assault often have trouble remembering key details. Fair enough. But if her memory is the only evidence against Kavanaugh, then inconsistencies matter. And without any corroboration, senators cannot rely her imperfect memories alone no matter how sympathetic a witness she was. Follow Marc A. Thiessen on Twitter, @marcthiessen. (c) 2018, The Washington Post Writers Group If nothing else, the past week brought home the importance of keeping the Senate under Republican control. Paul Mirengoff usually takes the time to sort the races out for us, but we have let the task go this year. Now is the time. In previous posts I took a look at top takeaway opportunities and top seats to be defended. John made an appeal on behalf of Minnesotas Karin Housley in her race against the weak appointed incumbent Tina Smith here. My point, and I do have one, is to ask readers to consider supporting the GOP candidates with our dollars. In my notes on each race I link to the Republican candidates donation page. Here I would like to add three races where I think the Republican candidate, however worthy, must be deemed long shots. Top long shots: Bob Hugin v. Robert Menendez: Robert Menendez is the incumbent Democratic senator. He dodged a vacation in the big house when a New Jersey jury failed to arrive at a verdict on the corruption charge brought against him. The Senate Ethics Committee formally admonished Menendez. New Jersey voters have gotten the message. He is under water. In the most recent poll, Hugin has pulled within 2 points, at 45-43 percent. RCP aggregation here. Please contribute to Bob Hugin here. Leah Vukmir v. Tammy Baldwin: Tammy Baldwin is a Madison lefty. Leah Vukmir serves in the Wisconsin Senate. She would be a vast improvement over Baldwin even if she werent running as a solid conservative. Democrats appear to be on the rampage in Wisconsin. In the most recent poll, Baldwin is +11. RCP aggregation is here. Please contribute to Leah Vukmir here. Jim Renacci v. Sherrod Brown. Sherrod Brown is a labor leftist, but he has had to square the circle as Ohio Democrats have struggled with their own union issues. Jim Renacci is a solid conservative candidate has struggled to achieve liftoff. He would represent a vast improvement over Brown. In the most recent poll, Brown is +13. RCP aggregation is here. Please contribute to Jim Renacci here. If it wasnt already evident that even if Brett Kavanaugh is confirmed to the Supreme Court in a few days the left will carry on with a full-scale attack (including an impeachment investigation), then the email below from Harold Meyerson of The American Prospect sent out yesterday makes the matter explicit. Ill intersperse my comments in places: The Back-Up Way of Defeating Kavanaugh. Assume the worst: Lets posit that within a week, despite the evidence of his abuses when young, his temperament when middle-aged, and his unyieldingly troglodytic beliefs at all times, Brett Kavanaugh is confirmed as a Supreme Court justice. That, of course, would create the first hard-right majority on the Court since 1937a majority dead-set against modernity, equal rights for women and minorities, and any rights at all for workers. What to do then? Comment: Actually, in 1937 was when a slightly conservative (but very inconsistent) majority on the Supreme Court ended, according to legend (subsequently controverted by historians) buckling to pressure from FDR. But as for against modernity, equal rights for women, would that include those earlier conservative decisions like Adkins v. Childrens Hospital that struck down legislation that was discriminatory against women in the workplace? It is always amusing to see leftists tapdance around the actual facts and reasoning in cases that theyve never actually read. I could go on, but lets continue: There would still remain one perfectly legal and valid exit ramp from this lowdown circle of hell. In the increasingly likely event that the Democrats take the House this November, the new Democratic majority on the House Judiciary Committee could revisit Kavanaughs testimony last week for evidence of deception. Indeed, the senior Democrat on that committee, New Yorker Jerry Nadleras smart and progressive a congressman as the Democrats havehas already indicated the committee, which hed be chairing, would do just that. Comment: Jerry Nadler-the-Hutt. (Maybe Trump will call him a Nadlering nabob of negativism?) I look forward to watching that. Its almost impossible to envision the Senate convicting Kavanaughit requires a two-thirds vote, which is to say, Republican support, and given that partys commitment to anti-empiricism, all evidence will become beside the pointbut a House-enacted resolution to impeach would in itself throw the Court into crisis. First, additional revelations from a House investigation might compel Kavanaugh to resign. Second, were he to stay on the court, the Senate would have to hold a trial (unless, if the Republicans still control the Senate, they refuse to, which would lead to a constitutional impasse that would doubtless have to be decided by, yep, the Supreme Court). Third, whether Kavanaugh could continue to hear and rule on cases while all this was proceeding would be hotly disputed and, again, a matter that the Court would have to decide since there would be no one else who could decide it. Fourth, if after all this Kavanaugh remains on the Court, the legitimacy of its rulings would be questioned as never before in our history, laying the groundwork for the addition of at least two justices to the current nine should the Democrats control the White House and Congress following the 2020 election. The Supreme Court, along with the military and the police (!), is one of the few national institutions that still enjoys the majority support, respect, and confidence of the American people according to most surveys. So now the left wants to create a crisis at the Court, and delegitimize its rulings. David Burges classic tweet comes to mind: PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 14:01:48 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 636 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 FISHERS, IN / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2018 / American Resources Corporation (OTCQB: AREC), a diversified energy company focused on the extraction, processing, transportation and selling of coal, is pleased to announce the continued expansion of its coal processing and transloading services business at its McCoy Elkhorn Bevins Preparation Plants and loadout (located in Pike County, Kentucky). The Company has secured a new contract with a new coal customer estimated at adding $60,000 to $96,000 a month in additional revenue at the McCoy Elkhorn Bevins Branch facility.This expansion comes on the heels of the company signing a contract for processing, storage, and loading of coal for a large international coal consumer earlier this summer. With the lack of efficient, readily-available coal processing and rail loading facilities in Kentucky, American Resources Corporation has seen an increase in interest from other coal producers that lack such infrastructure that cleans the coal for the end-consumer and loads the coal to rail car, both services which are in high demand for coal producers looking to sell a cost-competitive refined product to international and domestic customers due to improving coal markets. "The continued interest from other coal producers looking to utilize our state-of-the-art processing and loading facilities at American Resources is a testament to our premier infrastructure assets in the heart of coal country," stated Tarlis Thompson, Chief Operating Officer of American Resources. "Given our ample capacity at these facilities, we welcome the additional business as a way to expand our revenues and operating margins through greater efficiencies." American Resources Corporation continues to focus on its growth objective by efficiently leveraging its large number of core mining permits and through identifying strategic, supplemental acquisitions. The company is committed to being one of the lowest cost operators in CAPP and throughout all its coal mining, processing, and transportation operations.About American Resources Corporation:American Resources Corporation is a diversified energy company focused on the extraction, processing, transportation and selling of specialty coal qualities serving the metallurgical, industrial, pulverized coal injection (PCI), and premium thermal coal markets. The company is primarily focused on the Central Appalachian coal basin of eastern Kentucky.The company's business model is to capitalize on the changing coal markets to redefine how to create efficient coal mining operations to thrive and prosper in an industry that has less scale and production. By adjusting its operations to fit the market, American Resources Corporation is flexible and dynamic to adjust rapidly to expanding and contracting coal markets.Website:http://www.americanresourcescorp.com Institutional/Retail/Individual Contact:RedStone Communications, LLCAnthony D. Altavilla, President317-569-1617 - Office317-590-3780 - Celltony@ redstonecommunications.comwww.redstonecommunications.comCompany Contact:Mark LaVerghettaVice President of Corporate Finance and Communications investor@ americanresourcescorp.comSpecial Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other important factors that could cause the Company's actual results, performance, or achievements or industry results to differ materially from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. The words "believes," "may," "will," "should," "would," "could," "continue," "seeks," "anticipates," "plans," "expects," "intends," "estimates," or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. Any forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date of this release.The Company does not undertake any obligation to update or supplement any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. The Company cannot assure you that the projected results or events will be achieved.SOURCE: American Resources Corporation PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 13:02:02 ALPHARETTA, Ga., Oct. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aptean, a leading global provider of mission-critical, industry-specific enterprise software solutions, has formed a strategic partnership with ABM Data Systems, which develops and supports customs declaration management and international trade software solutions. The partnership will enable Aptean TradeBeam users to conduct crucial last mile clearance the completion/filing of an import declaration with customs authorities. Last mile clearance is critical to any organization importing into the European Union. Organizations engaged in global trade use TradeBeam to gain end-to-end visibility and streamline the entire trade process. The added support from ABM Data will ensure that Aptean customers involved in European trade will have access to a customs clearance solution within one global trade management (GTM) framework instead of having to integrate with multiple applications. ABM Data has a very comprehensive clearance solution, is represented in many EU countries and has a deservedly great reputation. This partnership will offer our customers tremendous support to successfully navigate European customs clearance, said Anne van de Heetkamp, director of business operations for Aptean TradeBeam. Our expertise on cross-border declarations and compliance paired with Apteans advanced GTM technology will provide the insight and convenience so many organizations trading with European countries need, said Tony OGrady, business development director at ABM Data. The Aptean TradeBeam and ABM Data integration will go live later this year. For more information on Aptean TradeBeam, visit our page on aptean.com. ABOUT APTEAN Aptean provides very specific industries with very specific ERP, supply chain management and customer experience solutions. In todays fast-paced, highly competitive economy, organizations dont have time to waste forcing homegrown software, spreadsheets and one-size-fits-all solutions to do things they were never designed to do. Thats why over 5,000 highly specialized organizations in more than 20 industries and 74 countries rely on Aptean to streamline their everyday operations. To learn how Aptean can help your organization stay at the forefront of your industry, visit www.aptean.com . ABOUT ABM DATA SYSTEMS ABM Data is a leading provider of innovative automated customs and brokerage solutions. Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, ABM Data develops and provides customs declaration management and related international trade software solutions. ABM Data has deep experience managing the implementation of large-scale European customs and logistics system integration projects. ABM Datas pioneering on-demand customs clearance solution, CustomsWare, is accredited for all customs regimes in Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, UK, Switzerland, Sweden and Germany, and includes solutions for bonded warehousing, delivery management and web-services. For more information about ABM Data Systems, visit www.ABMDataSystems.com FOR MORE INFORMATION Media Relations Stephanie Zercher, Aptean stephanie.zercher@aptean.com 678-681-9070 PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 05:40:12 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 635 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Teoh will be sharing his knowledge on Zero Budget Facebook Marketing at Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale on October 9 and University of Missouri Kansas City (UMKC) on October 11CALIFORNIA / ACCESSWIRE / October 2, 2018 / Malaysia's best-selling author and Facebook marketing trainer Marcus Teoh will be attending Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale and University of Missouri Kansas City (UMKC) to deliver a lecture entitled "Zero Budget Facebook Marketing." The talk will highlight contents from his own book "Now or Never," which features a Zero Budget Facebook Marketing (#ZBFM) strategy that Teoh himself has formulated and replicated into many successful Facebook marketing campaigns. "Now or Never" managed to hit the top ten weekly best sellers for an accumulative 21 weeks with not a dime spent on advertising.#ZBFM helped Teoh, a first-time author, to win one of the greatest English Book awards in Malaysia, the "MPH Bookstore 2017 Top Ten Best Business Nominee," alongside world-famous billionaires like Sir Richard Branson, Tony Robbins, and Jack Ma. MPH bookstore is Malaysia's largest and most influential English bookstore chain. Although he started as an entrepreneur, Teoh soon realized his passion as a speaker and trainer. He is best known in Malaysia for his two flagship training programs "Start a Business with only RM199" and "Zero Budget Facebook Marketing (#ZBFM)."On September 26, before heading to the United States, Teoh conducted a full day Facebook Marketing Workshop to a group of entrepreneurs, including a participant who has a hearing and speech disability. He shared his knowledge and inspired his guests to start working on their own #ZBFM to success, even with zero or minimum budget.Marcus Teoh will start off his journey in the States by visiting the Technology, Ecosystem, and Culture (TEC) Immersion Program from September 30th to October 4th. It is an event organized by the Productivity Nexus for Retail and Food & Beverages in partnership with the University of California Berkeley. 36 Malaysian businesspersons will be traveling to four of Silicon Valley's largest business organizations including Google and Target. Teoh will be taking part in this as a Facebook Marketing Trainer under the food and beverage community known as F&B Connects, which is home to over a hundred food and beverage brands.This will then be followed by presenting a lecture at Forbes' America's best startup school SIU Carbondale and his final stop will be another lecture at UMKC.Teoh is excited about the opportunity to lecture at the top rated Business Schools and share his expertise and insights on Facebook Marketing. The lecture is geared toward all the aspiring entrepreneurs with the drive to market themselves or their businesses without paying for advertising. Teoh is all geared up to inspire, encourage and guide all his guests on the many uses of psychology and hacks on Facebook. This will be the first time "Now or Never" is brought to the United States.About Marcus Teoh: As a Facebook Marketing Trainer, Author of "Now or Never," serial start-up Entrepreneur and former Entrepreneurship Lecturer in a premier university, Marcus Teoh uses his knowledge and experience to inspire and guide aspiring entrepreneurs. Teoh has seen great success with "Now or Never," as the book has been on the MPH Bookstore's Top Ten Bestseller List for twenty-one weeks and counting. He is also actively sharing his strategies to help entrepreneurs with a limited budget to excel."Your network is your net worth only if you work it," - Marcus Teoh, Facebook Marketing Trainer, Top Selling Author of "Now or Never."Contact Info:Name: Marcus TeohEmail: Marcus@ MarcusTeoh.comOrganization: Marcus Teoh GlobalVideo URL: https://vimeo.com/251476190/895228f605Source URL: https://marketersmedia.com/best-selling-malaysian-author-and-facebook-marketing-trainer-marcus-teoh-to-speak-in-the-united-states/415831For more information, please visit https://www.marcusteoh.com/SOURCE: Marcus Teoh Global PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 08:54:01 CORRECTING and REPLACING IDEMIA Launches Its Asia Pacific Headquarters and Innovation Centre in Singapore IDEMIA Adeline Plane, +65 8876 6331 adeline.plane@idemia.com or Local PR agency: Red Agency (on behalf of IDEMIA) Rekha Indiran, +65 9338 7150 rekha.indiran@redagency.asia or Corporate PR agency: Havas Paris Quentin Ruffat, +33 7 8634 7887 idemia@havas.com Sentence removed from sixth graph of release dated October 2, 2018. The corrected release reads: IDEMIA LAUNCHES ITS ASIA PACIFIC HEADQUARTERS AND INNOVATION CENTRE IN SINGAPORE IDEMIA, the global leader in Augmented Identity, announced today the official opening of its APAC headquarters, in the presence of Marc Abensour, Ambassador of France to the Republic of Singapore, Didier Lamouche, IDEMIA CEO, and Eric Duforest, IDEMIA APAC President. Singapores Smart Nation vision, its status as a leading innovation and financial hub, and gateway to the rest of Asia Pacific made the city-state an attractive location for IDEMIA to establish its regional headquarters. Located at 21 Media Circle, the headquarters also incorporates an Innovation Centre highlighting the Groups commitment to the region while reinforcing Idemias vision of securing identities with convenience in this digital transformation era. The Innovation Centre will showcase advanced technologies in identity security to support partners and customers on their digital transformation journey, offering seamless experiences with next-generation technologies without compromising security. Featured solutions include an automated air passenger boarding process, advanced mobility solutions, IoT innovation, video analytics, mobile payments and a new generation biometric and display payment card. IDEMIA in Singapore IDEMIAs border control technologies are currently deployed in Terminal 4 of Singapores state-of-the-art Changi International Airport. The fully automated departure process at Terminal 4 combines the best of biometric accuracy, design efficiency and program execution, based on IDEMIAs expertise in biometrics, border control and system integration. The solutions include: Biometric capture of passengers to facilitate automated bag drop, immigration and boarding Automated immigration and boarding gates Passenger process facilitation platform, linking various airport and airlines systems To date, more than 6 million passengers have passed through IDEMIA-powered gantries at Terminal 4. We are delighted to strengthen our presence in Singapore as its an ideal backdrop for building the future of digital security in APAC. As identity theft is the most common type of cybercrime that transcends borders, it is critical for governments, airports and border controls to bolster national security whenever and wherever security matters. Our next-generation and innovative solutions enable nations and enforcement agencies to substantially improve security capabilities in todays connected environment, while ensuring convenience and seamless processing of citizens identities, said Didier Lamouche, Chief Executive Officer, IDEMIA. I am delighted that IDEMIA has chosen Singapore to establish its headquarters and innovation centre, as Singapore is in the forefront of introducing new initiatives to steer innovation and digitalisation. As identity security is of paramount importance in todays digital age, IDEMIA is in good stead to boost national and citizen security in Singapore and the region. This announcement is also timely as 2018 has been declared the France-Singapore Year of Innovation which recently led to the signing of a joint roadmap for deepening cooperation in digital innovation, internet governance and cybersecurity during Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loongs visit to Paris in July 2018. Singapore and France share a synergy in enhancing our innovation ecosystem, and as more French companies continue to establish its presence in Singapore, I am confident that the collaborations between both countries will deepen, to create more opportunities for enterprises and consumers, said His Excellency Mr Marc Abensour, Ambassador of France to Singapore. IDEMIAs entry into the Asia-Pacific makes an exciting period for the group. Today a leading player in the identification and authentication sector, the group has four R&D centres in Asia Pacific and serves clients in over 20 countries within the region. With governments and organisations accelerating their pace of digital transformation across Asia, IDEMIAs APAC headquarters will power the groups geographical footprint within the region. *** About IDEMIA OT-Morpho is now IDEMIA, the global leader in Augmented Identity for an increasingly digital world, with the ambition to empower citizens and consumers alike to interact, pay, connect, travel and vote in ways that are now possible in a connected environment. Securing our identity has become mission critical in the world we live in today. By standing for Augmented Identity, we reinvent the way we think, produce, use and protect this asset, whether for individuals or for objects. We ensure privacy and trust as well as guarantee secure, authenticated and verifiable transactions for international clients from Financial, Telecom, Identity, Public Security and IoT sectors. OT (Oberthur Technologies) and Safran Identity & Security (Morpho) have joined forces to form IDEMIA. With close to $3 billion in revenues and 14,000 employees around the world, IDEMIA serves clients in 180 countries. For more information, head to www.idemia.com. And follow us @IdemiaGroup on Twitter View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181002005 According to Goldstein Research, global acetyl market is expected to reach USD 37.8 billion by 2024, growing at a CAGR of 6.4% over the forecast period 2016-2024. Global Acetyl Market PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 06:25:15 Press Information Goldstein Research 99 Wall Street, Suite No:- 527 Steve blade Global Sales Manager 6465687747 email https://www.goldsteinresearch.com/ # 462 Words 99 Wall Street, Suite No:- 527Global Sales Manager6465687747 According to Goldstein Research, global acetyl market is expected to reach USD 37.8 billion by 2024, growing at a CAGR of 6.4% over the forecast period 2016-2024. The demand from the developing economies to supplement the intensive construction activities and application in adhesives, paints, and films are primarily driving the growth of the market. Acetyl market segmentation has been done on the basis of acetyl products, application, and geography. Acetic acid accounted for the largest market share of 28.0% in 2016 for its application in multiple industries such as manufacturing of VAM. Global acetyl market is largely dominated by North America due to the presence of top manufacturers in the region. Further, Asia-Pacific is the largest consumer of acetyl in different forms, on the back of development activities, carried on in the region.Browse Full Report:Market SegmentationOn the basis of our in-depth analysis, Global Acetyl Market can be segmented as follows:By Type of Acetyl Products Acetic Acid VAM Acetic anhydride Acetaldehyde Ethyl acetate Formaldehyde Butyl acetate EthanolBy Application Paints, Coatings & Inks Adhesives Films Textiles Building and Construction Products PharmaceuticalsBy Region North America Acetyl Market Analysis, 2016-2024 Global Acetyl Market Analysis, 2016-2024 The Middle East And Africa Acetyl Market Analysis, 2016-2024 Latin America Acetyl Market Analysis, 2016-2024 Asia Pacific Acetyl Market Analysis, 2016-2024 Rest Of The World Acetyl Market Analysis, 2016-2024Global Acetyl Market Analysis includes a comprehensive overview of the global acetyl market. On the basis of our in-depth analysis, the market can be segmented in terms of market segmentation by acetyl product, application, and geography.Download Exclusive Sample Report:The Global Acetyl Market Report highlights the competitive outlook of major global players that includes the business strategies, product portfolio, revenue distribution, financial analysis, R&D activities, and investments. The comprehensive analysis of acetyl market report is drafted as per the clients to help them in assessing their business strategies in the competitive environment.Major players of the global acetyl market analyzed in the report are Celanese Corporation, Dow Chemical Company, Eastman Chemical Company, Wacker Chemie, BP Global, Chloritech Industries, Daicel Corp., GNFC Ltd., Jiangsu Sopo Co. Ltd, PetroChina, Kanoria Chemicals & Industries Ltd, Sinopec, Transpek Industry Ltd., etc.Further, Global Acetyl Industry Report encompasses the key factors driving the growth of the market, opportunities in the market and the factors posing threats & challenges to the market. The Acetyl Industry Outlook also comprises the market dynamics, risk analysis, SWOT analysis, USP analysis, BPS Analysis & market attractiveness. Report further also includes the expert analysis and remarks showcasing the complete overview of the market based on intensive analysis of political, economic, social, technological, environmental & legal factors of each region in the market.Browse Similar Report: PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 05:46:12 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 511 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Braswell Construction Group has opened a new location in Greensboro, GA. The professional roofing contractor has over 16 years experience in the industry and is platinum accredited for high quality serviceGREENSBORO, GA / ACCESSWIRE / October 2, 2018 / Braswell Construction Group, a leading GA roofer and roofing contractor, has announced a new location in Greensboro. The experienced top-rated company has served the Covington area for over 16 years and has now expanded to Greensboro and Lake Oconee, bringing specialist big-city roofing skills and professionalism to the area. This 3rd location has Braswell Construction Group's expert team now servicing Covington/Conyers, Atlanta, Greensboro/Lake Oconee, and all of their respective surrounding areas.More information can be found at: http://braswellconstructiongroup.comBraswell Construction Group (BCG) has been locally owned and operated since 2002, and prides itself on its high-quality craftsmanship, exceptional customer service, and professional acumen. BCG has a reputation for always completing its roofing and restoration projects on time and on budget.One attribute that separates BCG from other Greensboro roofing contractors is that they are recognized with the elite status of Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractors. To qualify for this exclusive position, Braswell Construction Group not only met the highest standard requirements but exceeded them in all areas of their trade. Once named as an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, the provider is considered among the best in the industry.This is great news to homeowners needing skilled roofing specialists in Greensboro, Georgia because they can now receive customized service from an expert provider known for brilliant service and unparalleled workmanship.A full list of services is provided on the company website. Some options cover residential and commercial renovation and restoration, including repair for storm damage, water damage, and fire damage.In addition to being considered specialty roofing masters, Braswell Construction Group also offers an array of services including premium framing services, window & door installation, room additions, basement finishing, stone & brick work, painting, flooring & decking services, and more.The company states: "BCG is a full-service roofing company with extensive knowledge in many different roofing systems. With our 5-year craftsmanship warranty you can rest at ease that we have you covered." Chris Braswell, founder and owner of BCG, summarizes his overall mission by offering the following statement. "We strive to achieve the highest quality and reliable services in order to surpass all expectations. Your home is a lifetime investment and your most precious asset; this is why we value each and every customer's desire to have a qualified professional working on the premises of your home."Chris Braswell, his wife of 16 years and their daughter now happily reside in Greensboro, GA where they work, live and play. The Braswell family is extremely involved in all aspects of the local Greensboro community with their business location at 1051 Village Park Dr., conveniently situated off Lake Oconee Parkway.Contact Info:Name: Michelle BirdEmail: chris@ braswellconstructiongroup.comOrganization: Braswell Construction Group, Inc. Roofing & RestorationAddress: 1051 Village Park Dr., Greensboro, GA 30642, United StatesPhone: +1-678-283-2551For more information, please visit http://www.braswellconstructiongroup.comSOURCE: Braswell Construction Group PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 18:51:38 Press Information Huifeng Umbrella Co., Ltd No 15, Yiheng Lu, Donggao Street, Zhongshan San Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, China 510015 Justin Zhang ceo 86-20 37667971 email http://www.hfumbrella.com Published by Victoria Payne 972-885-0399 e-mail # 410 Words No 15, Yiheng Lu, Donggao Street, Zhongshan San Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, China 510015ceo86-20 37667971Victoria Payne972-885-0399 Guangzhou, China 03 October 2018 - Huifeng Umbrella Co., Ltd offers all kinds of high quality umbrellas, featuring exclusive style. In addition, this company from China specialized in the production of custom printing umbrellas, supplying their customers with the unique accessories.Theres no question that umbrella is an essential accessory for every one of us, when it comes to rainy days. Choosing the right umbrella, we usually expect getting a sturdy item, which will be quite firm and durable protecting us from rain as well as wind. We want to feel comfortable, being covered by our umbrellas, while walking securely under the rain, whether it comes to drizzling rain or heavy rainfall.Besides the reliability of our umbrellas, its important to think about their style. Considering the matter of umbrellas styles, you can find out that most people prefer classic accessories, i.e. sole-colored or featuring a plain design. Its obvious that such an accessory is quite practical, but by no means remarkable. If you want to stand out from the crowd during rainy days, you can be recommended to spice up your look with an umbrella having an eye-catching style.Huifeng Umbrella is the right umbrella brand, which provides its consumers with both quality and style. Visiting the website of this company, you can find a magnificent collection of umbrellas, every one of which possesses a sophisticated and stunning style, which mesmerizes and certainly impresses. Having such an accessory in your hand, you can be certain that youll be properly covered from rain and at the same time look really amazing.In addition, Huifeng Umbrella manufactures custom umbrellas, opting to meet all the requirements of their clients. It means that you can order an exceptional umbrella with a self-designed print, or acquire the unique set of logo print umbrellas or promotional umbrellas, which match your business goals.Theres no better spot than Hfumbrella.com to buy a wonderful umbrella China. This company presents the best value for money, while offering convenient, lightweight, durable and stylish umbrellas, each of which is furnished with windproof double canopy and wooden handle.About Huifeng Umbrella Co., Ltd:Huifeng Umbrella Co., Ltd is a reputable umbrella supplier from China, which provides a large variety of high quality umbrellas worldwide, making all the efforts to meet all the needs and preferences of its clients. This company is focused on quality of its products as well as services, always striving for perfection. PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 14:32:24 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 494 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 CAMBRIDGE, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2018 / IIoT-OXYS, Inc. (OTC PINK: ITOX) announced today that it has signed a Master Service Agreement (MSA) with a major international pharmaceutical company with offices around the globe including Cambridge, MA. The first task order under this agreement is for the application of Intelligent Edge IIOT solutions to process equipment used in various manufacturing lines. The work will be conducted both in North America as well as sites worldwide.Cliff Emmons, CEO of IIOT-OXYS, explains that "we are tremendously pleased with the trust this particular client has placed in us as exhibited by the signing of this Master Service Agreement. This is a significant vote of confidence by a company with its own outstanding internal technical resources. The first phase of this work will be to comprehensively understand current production issues and to thoroughly chart a course of action. We will then deploy a demo project in close collaboration with their internal technical experts, which will logically suggest a migration path to other equipment at other locations. We are pleased to help this customer solve real problems on real production equipment for the safe, reliable and cost-effective production of high-quality pharmaceutical products worldwide."Karen McNemar, COO of IIOT-OXYS added that "we are honored to be of service to this client. We expect these early phases of work to yield a series of tasks under the Master Service Agreement that could individually be in the five to six figure range depending on complexity and scope. More importantly, we are committed to becoming a reliable, trustworthy long-term supplier to this customer as well as to the biomedical, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries in general. Our Cambridge, MA location affords us outstanding accessibility to such customers as all the major multinational firms in these industries have offices, research labs, or in some cases even production sites in and around Cambridge and Boston, MA."Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release contains forward-looking statements that reflect Management's current views about future events and financial performance. Forward-looking statements often contain words such as ''expects,'' ''anticipates,'' ''intends,'' or '' believes.'' Our forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results and events to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties that could adversely affect us include, without limitation, the loss of major customers, our failure to obtain new contracts, our inability to patent products or processes, our infringement of patents held by others, our inability to finance our business and the other risks and uncertainties that are discussed in our most recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements in this news release are made only as of the date of this news release. We undertake no obligation to update our forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.Contact:Cliff L. EmmonsCEOIIoT-OXYS, Inc.contact@oxyscorp.comwww.oxyscorp.comwww.herelab.ioSOURCE: IIOT-OXYS, Inc. PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 07:56:06 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 361 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 SINGAPORE / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2018 / Recently, Newton officially announced the details of its Private Sale: it was completed on July 31 with the total amount of 3,000 BTC.At the beginning of the Private Sale, Newton founder Xu Jizhe has explained to community members that it aims to create a global community and cultivate seeded users, which are different from most blockchain projects. Based on the large enough community, although this round of financing encountered with a bear market, the total number of interested subscribers exceeded 11,000, covering 89 countries and regions around the world, and their total subscription amount exceeded 20,000 BTC. At last, more than 1,000 people from 31 countries passed Newton's qualification review and actually participated in the Private Sale.In addition, Newton invested by many well-known institutions such as Block VC, JCM, Consensus Lab, JLab, GENESIS, Kfund, and by many industry leaders such as Hu Ding, Liu Jun, Ye Haifeng and many other.With the completion of two rounds of financing, Newton has successfully gathered many elites of various industries around the world. These elites are fully engaged participate in Newton projects and work as advisors, core members of the community, and even Newton team members, including Mr. Theodore Gray, the co-founder of Mathematica's Wolfram Research; Mr. Han Feng,the co-founder of Elastos; Mr. Willson Leethe Bitcoin Ambassador and several entrepreneurs in many industries such as e-commerce, finance and agriculture.Based on the positioning of "infrastructure", Newton's implementation in the retail, supply chain, finance, and public welfare scenarios is steadily advancing. All these elites will subtly provide resources for Newton's business and know-hows of industries.So far, Newton TestNet with 5,000 TPS in real WANs has been released on September 3, along with its wallet Newpay and browser NewExplorer. And the main net is supposed to be released in October.According to Newton official website, the public sale will start in October. In this regard, Newton founder Xu Jizhe revealed that considering Newton's technology, operation, commercialization has been proceeding smoothly, the public sale may be launched ahead of schedule.Contact Details :Person name: Peng QingyingCompany Name: Newton ProjectEmail address: newton-ir@ newtonproject.orgCompany Address: Golden Mile Complex, Singapore (199588)Contact Number: (+86) 17611706692Website: https://www.newtonproject.orgCountry: SingaporeSOURCE: Newton PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 02:53:01 Program aims to attract new partners and provide added benefits to current partners Nuix Partner Program to Accelerate Expansion Plans into Asia-Pacific and Japan Nuix Corporate Communications Lucy Lai-Haddon, + 61 2 9280 0699 lucy.laihaddon@nuix.com Nuix (www.nuix.com), a cybersecurity, risk, and compliance software company, has announced the launch of a new Partner Program in line with the companys goals for expansion into the Asia-Pacific and Japan markets. The company has recently focused on creating a robust partner ecosystem supported by a channel program that is aimed at attracting select new partners and making it simple for existing partners to do business with Nuix. The program is underpinned by a new and differentiated margin plan and framework for obtaining Bronze, Silver and Gold Partner status. Additional investments have also been made into partner sales and technical enablement, a new Partner Relationship Management system, increased co-marketing funds, and new incentives for partner sales. The Nuix Partner Program delivers a great platform for us to evolve and deepen our relationships with the partner ecosystem in this region. Im very excited to support the team in bringing this to market to generate new opportunities and revenue streams together, said Paul Muller, Nuix CEO, APAC & Japan. Nuix has been helping customers solve complex data and investigation challenges since 2000. It has experienced strong growth since its inception, gaining over 2000 customers across more than 70 countries in a short space of time. It opened additional offices over the last year, including in New Zealand, Japan, the Middle East and Germany. As a leading software for eDiscovery, investigations, security, risk and compliance, the company is looking to build on its success and accelerate expansion through the channel. It currently has partnerships with the leading advisories, litigation support vendors and systems integrators around the world. Nuix has built a loyal customer base through our strength and heritage in eDiscovery and investigations, said Chris Pogue, Global Head of Services, Security and Partner Integration. We have new cybersecurity solutions and services that are unmatched in the industry. We have product developments that are geared for the digital future, and we are excited by the value propositions that we can deliver together with our partners. The Partner Program will bring added revenue streams for the channel and help our partners to find, win, retain and grow happy customers. To find out how you can become a Nuix partner, visit www.nuix.com/partners. About Nuix Nuix (www.nuix.com) understands the DNA of data at enormous scale. Our software pinpoints the critical information organizations need to anticipate, detect, and act on cybersecurity, risk, and compliance threats. Our intuitive platform identifies hidden connections between people, objects, locations, and events providing real-time clarity, control, and efficiency to uncover the key facts and their context. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181002006 Nuix launches new partner program to accelerate expansion plans in Asia Pac PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 08:00:02 NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES, AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN, HONG KONG OR SOUTH AFRICA, OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH THE DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF ANY OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN. Oslo, Norway, 03 October 2018. Reference is made to the previous announcements by PCI Biotech Holding ASA ("PCI Biotech" or the "Company") in respect of the fully underwritten rights issue of 12,000,000 new shares (Offer Shares) in the Company (the "Rights Issue"). The terms of the subscription rights are described in PCI Biotechs prospectus dated 17 September 2018. The subscription period in the Rights Issue expires at 16:30 CET today, 03 October 2018. Note that Subscription Rights that are not used to subscribe for Offer Shares before the end of the subscription period 03 October 2018 at 16:30 CET will lapse without compensations and consequently be of no value. Subscription procedure Holders of subscription rights (whether granted or acquired) must, in order to subscribe for Offer Shares, submit a correctly completed subscription form for the Rights Issue (Subscription Form) to the Managers, ABG Sundal Collier ASA or Arctic Securities AS, as outlined below and included in the Prospectus. Subscribers who are Norwegian residents with a Norwegian personal identification number may also subscribe for Offer Shares through the VPS online subscription system or by following the link on the following websites: www.abgsc.com or www.arctic.com, which will direct the subscriber to the VPS online system. For further information about the Subscription procedure, see section 15.9 in the Prospectus. The Subscription Form can be found in Appendix B in the Prospectus and at the managers website www.abgsc.com and www.arctic.com. ABG Sundal Collier ASA P.O. Box 1444 Vika NO-0115 Oslo, Norway E-mail: subscription@abgsc.no website: www.abgsc.com or Arctic Securities AS P.O. Box 1833 Vika NO-0123 Oslo, Norway E-mail: subscription@arctic.com website: www.arctic.com Contact information: Ronny Skuggedal, CFO, rs@pcibiotech.no, Mobile: +47 9400 5757 For more information visit: www.pcibiotech.com Contact information: PCI Biotech Holding ASA, Ullernchausseen 64, Oslo, NO-0379 Norway Important Notice The contents of this announcement have been prepared by, and are the sole responsibility of, the Company. The Company's financial advisors are acting exclusively for the Company and no one else, and will not be responsible to anyone other than the Company for providing the protections afforded to their respective clients, or for advice in relation to the Rights Issue, the contents of this announcement or any of the matters referred to herein. The information in this announcement is for information purposes only and does not purport to be accurate or complete. No reliance may be placed for any purpose on the information contained in this announcement or its accuracy or completeness. Matters discussed in this announcement may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and may be identified by words such as "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "strategy", "intends", "estimate", "will", "may", "continue", "should" and similar expressions. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions. Although the Company believes that these assumptions were reasonable when made, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond its control. Such risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors could cause actual events to differ materially from the expectations expressed or implied in this announcement by such forward-looking statements. The information, opinions and forward-looking statements contained in this announcement speak only as at its date, and are subject to change without notice. Neither the publication and/or delivery of this announcement shall under any circumstances imply that there has been no change in the affairs of the Company or that the information contained herein is correct as of any date subsequent to the earlier of the date hereof and any earlier specified date with respect to such information. A prospectus approved by the competent authority in Norway has been published by the Company) and can be obtained on the Company's website, subject to regulatory restrictions. Investors should not subscribe for any securities referred to in this announcement except on the basis of information contained in the prospectus. Restrictions Neither this announcement nor any copy of it may be made or transmitted directly or indirectly into the United States, Australia, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong or South Africa or any other jurisdiction where to do so would be unlawful. The Rights Issue (if made) and the distribution of this announcement and other information in connection with the Rights Issue may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions. Any failure to comply with such restrictions may constitute a violation of applicable securities laws. Persons into whose possession this announcement or other information should come are required to inform themselves about and observe any such restrictions. The Company assumes no responsibility in the event there is a violation by any person of such restrictions. This announcement does not in itself constitute, and should not be construed as, an offer for sale or subscription of or solicitation or invitation of any offer to subscribe for or purchase any securities of the Company or its affiliates in any jurisdiction. The Rights Issue will not be made in any jurisdiction or in any circumstances in which such offer or solicitation would be unlawful. No steps have been taken or will be taken relating to the Rights Issue in any jurisdiction outside of Norway in which such steps would be required. The securities referred to in this announcement have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or any securities laws of any state or other jurisdiction of the United States and may not be offered or sold within the United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and in compliance with applicable state law. There will be no public offer of the securities in the United States. This announcement is only being distributed to and is only directed at persons in the United Kingdom that are (i) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the "Order") or (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom this announcement may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). This announcement must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not relevant persons. Any investment or investment activity to which this announcement relates is available only to relevant persons and will be engaged in only with relevant persons. Persons distributing this announcement must satisfy themselves that it is lawful to do so. Further information regarding restrictions applicable for the Rights Issue will be set out in the prospectus prepared for the Rights Issue. About PCI Biotech PCI Biotech is a biopharmaceutical company focusing on development and commercialisation of novel therapies for the treatment of cancer through its innovative photochemical internalisation (PCI) technology platform. PCI is applied to three distinct anticancer paradigms: fimaCHEM (enhancement of chemotherapeutics for localised treatment of cancer), fimaVACC (T-cell induction technology for therapeutic vaccination), and fimaNAc (nucleic acid therapeutics delivery). Photochemical internalisation induces triggered endosomal release that is used to unlock the true potential of a wide array of therapeutic modalities. The Company's lead fimaCHEM programme consists of a clinical Phase I/II clinical study in bile duct cancer, an orphan indication with a high unmet need and without approved products. fimaVACC applies a unique mode of action to enhance the essential cytotoxic effect of therapeutic cancer vaccines, which works in synergy with several other state-of-the-art vaccination technologies. fimaNAc utilises the endosomal release to provide intracellular delivery of nucleic acids, such as mRNA and RNAi therapeutics, thereby addressing one of the major bottlenecks facing this emerging and promising field. This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. Forward-looking statements This announcement may contain forward-looking statements, which as such are not historical facts, but are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions. These assumptions are inherently subject to significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors. Such risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors could cause actual events to differ materially from the expectations expressed or implied in this announcement by such forward-looking statements. PCI Biotech disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 10:03:01 PredictImmune CSO, Eoin McKinney to lead discussion on fluid biomarkers PredictImmune invited to present at the Crohns & Colitis Foundation IBD Biomarkers Summit, October 17-18, Newark, NJ, USA Limewash, PR Agency for PredictImmune Sarah Brereton Director Tel: +44 (0)1223 813 560 PredictImmune, developers of pioneering prognostic tools for guiding treatment options and improving patient outcomes in immune-mediated diseases, announced today that it has been invited to present at the Crohns & Colitis Foundation IBD Biomarkers Summit, taking place in Newark, NJ, USA on the 17th and 18th October 2018. The two-day invitation-only participatory event will feature presentations and breakout sessions from leading IBD key opinion leaders, including key stakeholders from academia, industry, foundations and regulatory bodies. The Summit is sponsored in part by AbbVie, Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc and Janssen Biotech, Inc. Discussions will focus on the distinct needs in the context of early-stage clinical studies, later-stage trials and clinical practice, as well as opportunities to address biomarker needs for IBD drug development through emerging technologies such as transcriptomics and big data analysis. Dr Eoin McKinney, CSO PredictImmune, will lead a discussion on the second day of the event, focusing on fluid biomarkers. Eoin is a Wellcome-Beit intermediate Research Fellow in the Department of Medicine at the University of Cambridge and an honorary consultant in nephrology and transplantation in Cambridge University NHS hospitals Foundation Trust. He obtained a first-class degree in pre-clinical medicine from Keble College, Oxford University in 1999 and graduated in clinical medicine with honours from Edinburgh University in 2002. His primary interest is the use of systems immunology approaches to translate high throughput analyses of autoimmune disease datasets into clinical practice. PredictImmunes first product, addressing IBD (both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), is a test based on a simple whole-blood quantitative PCR assay and predicts long-term disease outcome at diagnosis prior to treatment. This allows patients to be grouped into those likely to follow either a more dormant or frequently relapsing disease course and thereby informs clinical management. The R&D phase of the test has been completed and the test is currently in the final stages of validation ahead of product launch. For more information please visit www.predictimmune.com - Ends - View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181003005 PredictImmune's CSO Eoin McKinney to present at the #Crohns & #Colitis Foundation IBD Biomarkers Summit, October 17-18, Newark, USA #IBD #biomarkers #predictimmune #lifescience #Cambridge PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 15:56:26 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 574 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2018 / The CBD oil consumer market is exploding and a popular pure organic brand was a top performer in the 3rd quarter of 2018 on CBDReVu, see here https://cbdrevu.com/cbdpure-hemp-oil-cbd/.The cannabidiol market has emerged in recent years as a hot new area of growth with larger players regularly getting involved. In the addition to the CBD market, the legal recreational and medical cannabis industries are experiencing investment commitments by large companies including some in the beverage industry, as has been publicized in recent weeks. In the CBD market there are a number of products available with new ones popping up on a regular basis. Many of the bestCBD oil products are profiled on the popular CBDReVu, a site that profiles most of the better-known CBD brands.On CBDRevu shoppers can read updated CBD oil brand profiles for such brands as CBDPure Softgel Capsules, NuLeaf Naturals, Kannaway Pure CBD, Restorative Botanicals, Receptra Naturals, Charlotte's Web CBD by CW Hemp, Endoca Hemp Oil, CBD Essence, Irie CBD, HempMeds RSHO Real Scientific Hemp Oil, Elixinol, Bluebird Botanicals, Sensi Seeds, Rick Simpson Oil, and more.According to at a least one industry-forecasting firm, the market for legal cannabis will likely reach over $146 billion in the coming years. The increased applications for marijuana in medical settings will significantly help to propel growth according to the firms' recent forecast. Legal recreational marijuana use is becoming increasingly acceptable with each passing year in the United States and worldwide, and public opinion for change in the laws is on the rise. Part of this is due to the inequities in the criminal justice system when it comes to marijuana laws. While the percentage of marijuana users among youth is consistent along racial lines, minorities are prosecuted to a greater extent than Caucasian youth. And on the general health front, the available evidence seems to suggest that marijuana use is a lesser health detriment than alcohol, although more research is needed. From a consumer demand standpoint, the majority of consumers throughout the U.S. and the rest of the western world favor an end to the prohibition of marijuana as well as increased access to medical marijuana.The advent of vaporizing and edibles as an alternative to traditional smoking of marijuana is also making marijuana consumption more acceptable to people who do not wish to inhale smoke. Marijuana oils are increasingly popular with consumers.Small marijuana business entrepreneurs, as well as some large companies, are positioning themselves to take advantage of the alternative ways of consuming marijuana, as well as non-psychoactive cannabinoids such as CBD and CBG. Vape products, tincture products and edibles are forecast to help grow these markets. More and more varied marijuana strains are being developed including some with increased levels of CBD, or cannabidiol, and higher levels of CBG, also known as cannabigerol.More and more states in the United States are relaxing their medical marijuana restrictions and some are moving toward recreational marijuana legalization. Canada is expected to be fully legal for recreational marijuana soon.CBDReVu offers advertising opportunities to firms in the CBD and marijuana related industries. They recently added a Domain Name Marketplace section for resellers and buyers of premium domain names relating to domain names relevant to CBD, CBG, hemp, cannabis, and marijuana.CBDReVu is an advertising supported information website featuring brand profiles of popular pure CBD offerings.Contact:Chaz Sandersonsupport@ cbdrevu.com1-929-344-1364SOURCE: PR-Inside.com: 2018-10-03 21:02:35 Press Information Polaris Market Research Contact us- Mr. Neel Corporate Sales, USA Polaris Market Research Phone: 1-646-568-9980 Email: sales@polarismarketresearch.com Web: www.polarismarketresearch.com Mr. Neel Manager 1-646-568-9980 email https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/ # 655 Words Contact us-Mr. NeelCorporate Sales, USAPolaris Market ResearchPhone: 1-646-568-9980Email: sales@polarismarketresearch.comWeb: www.polarismarketresearch.comManager1-646-568-9980 The Telecom Millimeter Wave Market is anticipated to reach around USD 5,869 million by 2026 according to a new research published by Polaris Market Research. In 2017, the E-band frequency band dominated the global telecom millimeter wave market, in terms of revenue. North America is expected to be the leading contributor to the global market revenue during the forecast period.Get Sample Report with Complete TOC @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/telecom-millimeter-wave-market/request-for-free-sample The growing need for bandwidth intensive applications coupled with growing mobile data traffic has boosted the adoption of telecom millimeter wave. The rising penetration of mobile devices, and rising adoption of mobile-connected devices further support the growth of telecom millimeter wave market. Additionally, the increasing demand of telecom millimeter wave in small-cell backhaul networks has supported market growth over the years. Increasing investments by vendors in technological advancements, growing demand from consumer electronics, and exoanding applications in security applications would accelerate the adoption of telecom millimeter wave during the forecast period. However, adverse environmental impact, and range issues are expected to hinder the telecom millimeter wave market growth. Growing demand from emerging economies, increasing adoption in autonomous vehicles, and use in 5G technology are expected to provide numerous growth opportunities in the coming years.North America generated the highest revenue in the market in 2017, and is expected to lead the global market throughout the forecast period. The presence of established telecom and cloud infrastructure in this region, and growing demand for mobility services drive the market growth in the region. The rising penetration of mobile devices, and technological advancements further support market growth in the region. The high penetration of 4G LTE, and the testing of 5G technology is expected to support market growth in this region during the forecast period.Make An Enquiry @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/telecom-millimeter-wave-market/inquire-before-buying Table OF Content Snapshot:-1. Overview and Scope2. Executive Summary3. Telecom Millimeter Wave Market Insights4. Telecom Millimeter Wave Market Size and Forecast by Product, 2018-20265. Telecom Millimeter Wave Market Size and Forecast by Frequency Band, 2018-20266. Telecom Millimeter Wave Market Size and Forecast by End-User, 2018-20267. Telecom Millimeter Wave Market Size and Forecast by Region, 2018-20268. Company Profiles.The companies operating in the telecom millimeter wave market include Siklu Communication Ltd., Farran Technology Ltd., Millitech, Inc., NEC Corporation, E-Band Communications, LLC, Bridgewave Communications, Inc., Sage Millimeter, Inc., Keysight Technologies, Inc., LightPointe Communications, Inc., and Smiths Group PLC. These companies launch new products and collaborate with other market leaders to innovate and launch new products to meet the increasing needs and requirements of consumers.Read More Details @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/telecom-millimeter-wave-market/ About us Polaris Market ResearchPolaris Market Research is a global market research and consulting company. We provide unmatched quality of offerings to our clients present globally. The company specializes in providing exceptional market intelligence and in-depth business research services for our clientele spread across different enterprises. We at Polaris are obliged to serve our diverse customer base present across the industries of healthcare, technology, semi-conductors and chemicals among various other industries present around the world. We strive to provide our customers with updated information on innovative technologies, high growth markets, emerging business environments and latest business-centric applications, thereby helping them always to make informed decisions and leverage new opportunities.We mainly focus on aiding our customers with substantial competitive intelligence, helping them to secure a competitive advantage in the market and accomplish sustainable growth in different market domains. Adept with a highly competent, experienced and extremely qualified team of experts comprising SMEs, analysts and consultants, we at Polaris endeavor to deliver value-added business solutions to our customers. Through dedicated qualitative and quantitative primary and secondary market research and consulting assignments, we adeptly formulate competitive strategies to address business challenges for our clients through analyzing market trends and emerging technologies.Contact us-Mr. NeelCorporate Sales, USAPolaris Market ResearchPhone: 1-646-568-9980Email: sales@ polarismarketresearch.com Web: www.polarismarketresearch.com The U.S. Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, said on Wednesday that the U.S. is terminating the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. Mr Pompeo said at a news conference that Im announcing that the U.S. is terminating the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue. The U.S. will see the practical impact of pulling out of the treaty, he added. Earlier Wednesday, the Hague-based International Court of Justice issued a verdict against U.S. unilateral sanctions, following U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. The court said that the restoration of sanctions against Iran by U.S. President Donald Trump violated the terms of the treaty between the two countries. It ordered the U.S. to ensure that its sanctions against Iran will not affect the humanitarian condition or threaten civil aviation safety. In response, Mr Pompeo said that Iran was abusing the court for its own political purposes. Were disappointed that the court failed to recognise that it has no jurisdiction to issue any order relating to these sanctions measures with the U.S., Mr Pompeo said. Pompeo also blamed Iran for threats to American missions in Iraq, days after he announced the closing of the U.S. consulate in the Iraqi city of Basra. Irans Foreign Ministry has condemned the U.S. claim as irresponsible, saying that such attempts to shift the blame onto others would not erase the U.S. destructive role in Iraq. (Xinhua/NAN) The Zambian government said on Wednesday that it had refunded the United Kingdom (UK) money it released for a social cash transfer scheme following allegations of fraud and corruption. Chief Zambian Government spokesperson, Dora Siliya, disclosed this at the weekly news conference. Ms Siliya said that the money, amounting to about 2.7 million British Pounds, was refunded on Monday. She said that the money did not come from government coffers but was the original money given by the UK government that had remained unutilised. The UK government as well as other donors suspended funding to the programme following alleged misapplication of funds. The revelation prompted President Edgar Lungu to fire Emerine Kabanshi, who was head of Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, a ministry which is in charge of the programme.He further ordered for a forensic audit of the programme. (Xinhua/NAN) Some 34 migrants have died in a shipwreck in the western Mediterranean, while 26 people survived, the UN Migration Agency said on Tuesday, citing the Moroccan navy and a Spanish aid agency. Joel Millman, spokesman of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), told Reuters: The boat was adrift since Sunday with 60 people aboard. At least 34 have drowned; it looks like there were 26 survivors. The information came from the Moroccan navy and a Spanish non-governmental organisation Caminando Fronteras, he said. (Reuters/NAN) The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) on Tuesday in Abuja signed a memorandum of understanding with Public Health England (PHE) in a bid to strengthen international disease control across borders. With this agreement, the British public health institute would be helping Nigeria and four other countries to improve their International Health Regulations (IHR) in disease prevention, detection and control. This partnership is coming days after two patients were diagnosed and hospitalised for monkeypox in the UK. The two patients were found to have travelled from Nigeria where there was an outbreak of the disease last year. The MoU signed by both parties is part of a 16 million project funded by the British Department of Health to support capacities of public health institutes in five countries including Nigeria. This is aimed at strengthening health security in the countries to reduce incidence of diseases trans-border crossing. In Nigeria, the project will focus on disease surveillance, emergency preparedness and response, public health laboratory services as well as workforce development. The outfit and NCDC are expected to collaborate in knowledge sharing, capacity building, laboratory upgrading aimed at achieving accreditation standards. This would contribute to ensuring the world is much safer and less vulnerable from the threat of infectious diseases, officials say. British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Paul Arkwright, at the signing called for strong collaboration among public health institutes to ensure global health security. The United Kingdom recognises that we must work closely with other countries in our efforts to build strong and resilient health systems globally, he said. The chief executive of PHE, Duncan Selbie, in his remarks said the IHR project is a partnership and invaluable opportunity for both countries to learn from each other. He said by working together and sharing expertise, both countries would become stronger in tackling diseases and control and that is the aim of the project. He added that the ultimate goal is to share knowledge, to be able to improve disease surveillance, increase technical understanding of the disease which would result in vaccine production to tackle most of the diseases in Nigeria. NCDC will coordinate the IHR strengthening programme and provide staff to drive collaboration with the federal ministry of health and environment as well as agriculture and rural development, it was learnt. The NCDC chief executive, Chikwe Ihekweazu said the agency is grateful to the British government for this opportunity which formalises and strengthens the existing relationship between NCDC and PHE. He said the unit is looking forward to building to the cooperation, for national and global health security. IHR comprises all activities from prevention, detection and control of diseases. In recognition (of the fact) that we live in a global world and the diseases we face are common, we started this partnership with PHE and together we designed the programme activities for five years, he explained. Mr Ihekweazu said the strengthening of health security in Nigeria will contribute to the strengthening of international global health. A paediatrician, Okiemute Olibamoyo, on Wednesday advised mothers to stop the habit of force-feeding their babies to avoid accidental-suffocation. Ms Olibamoyo of the Department of Paediatrics, College of Medicine, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos. According to her, such practice is dangerous and has led to untimely death of many infants in Nigeria. If you find out that your baby is not eating well or does not want to eat, do not scold her, rather change the way and pattern you prepare her food. Sometimes you find out that the child that refused to eat her mothers food is eating the same food prepared by another woman. It could be that she likes her plantain, for example, boiled and not fried. Mothers need to study and know what their children like best instead of forcing the child to eat. This is wrong and can instantly kill. Dont say because your mother force-fed you and you survived, therefore, your child would survive; in your own case the child may die, Olibamoyo said. She added that most times when mothers force-fed their children, fragments of food ended up in the childs lungs and could trigger pneumonia. The paediatrician told NAN that force-feeding a child could also lead to the child developing hatred for food, saying that the child would start seeing feeding as stressful. Olibamoyo said that once a child developed hatred for food, the hatred might lead to eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia. She said, while forcing a child to eat, the mother might accidentally break the childs jaw or hurt the child with the plate used in feeding her. The expert also blamed mothers for their babys frequent ill-health, adding that some mothers do not maintain proper hygiene. Some mothers use to wipe their babies buttocks, without washing their hands, they use the same hands to prepare the childs food. Why will the child not come down with diarrhea or other diseases? Olibamoyo said. She urged mothers to exclusively breastfeed their babies till they are six months old. The expert advised mothers who had no ideas on what food to feed their babies after six months to visit the primary health care centres for more information on what to do. (NAN) The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressive Congress has announced the final results of the controversial primaries held for governorship aspirants on Tuesday. Tunde Balogun, APC Lagos chairman, declared Jide Sanwo-Olu winner of the election with 970, 851 votes. Incumbent Akinwunmi Ambode scored 72,901. The race has been between the two. Mr Balogun made the announcement despite the position of the partys electoral committee which was sent by the National Working Committee to conduct and supervise the exercise. The committee members addressed a press briefing around 4:00 p.m., saying they were unaware of any election and effectively nullified the exercise whose results Mr Balogun announced tonight. The chairman of the committee, Clement Ebiri, also told PREMIUM TIMES at about 6 p.m. that no primaries held and his committee was still with the materials to be used for the primaries. Multiple sources at the APC national secretariat in Abuja told PREMIUM TIMES Tuesday night that fresh primaries might hold on Wednesday. But late on Tuesday, TVC News reported that party chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, said the results announced by Mr Balogun would stand. If Mr Oshiomhole indeed supported the primaries that held Tuesday, it would mark an apparent nullification of the decision of the committee he sent to the state. Tuesdays exercise was consumed by controversy almost as soon voting started at ward units across the state in the morning. The exercise was conducted via direct primaries method, but loyalists of Mr Ambode alleged disenfranchisement and threatened to hold their own exercise. Mr Ambodes supporters accused Lagos APC leaders of employing high-handed tactics to ensure the victory of Mr Sanwo-Olu. The head of the APC electoral panel appointed to conduct the Lagos governorship primary has reversed his stance and declared Babajide Sanwo-Olu winner of the primary. Clement Ebri, appointed by the National Working Committee of the APC, had on Tuesday evening said he was not aware any primary held in Lagos. However, on Wednesday morning, Mr Ebri addressed a press conference in Lagos affirming the result announced by the Lagos chairman of the APC, Tunde Balogun. Mr Balogun had during a press conference late Tuesday insisted there were primaries in the state, contrary to Mr Ebris position. On Wednesday, Mr Ebri said despite the hiccups on Tuesday, the Lagos State governorship primaries committee collated the results of the 245 wards in the 20 local government areas from the collating officers. At the end of the exercise, the following votes were scored by the respective aspirants: one, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode 72,901 votes. The other aspirant, Babajide Sanwo-olu, scored 970,851 votes. Following this results, I, Clement Ebri, the chairman of the Lagos State APC Governorship Primary Committee, hereby declare Babajide Sanwo-olu the winner of that election. Mr. Ebri did not elaborate on why he made a u-turn on his stance of Tuesday, amidst intense politicking from party leaders in the state. His announcement, however, marks an end to a tumultuous primary election that saw the electoral chief earlier distancing himself from the outcome of Tuesdays voting by party members. Thousands of APC members, including the partys national leader, Bola Tinubu, had participated in the primary election across the 20 local governments and 37 councils to elect the partys flagbearer at the 2019 governorship election. But as the results, which showed Mr Sanwo-olu in an unassailable lead against the incumbent governor, began to flood in; Mr Ebri shocked the states party members when he distanced his panel from the process. The electoral chief said an election couldnt have held when his panel was still expecting the aspirants to furnish them with a list of their representatives in all the wards. Anything that was done without the list we waited for, I cant wait for a list for over nine hours and I didnt see anything and you expect me to go ahead? We had a meeting with the representatives of the aspirants as early as 8 a.m. and we told them to bring lists of representatives from each LG to monitor the election on their behalf. I got names for 20 LG reps from one side and only got seven from the other side and we just got for additional eleven LG from them, Mr Ebri had said late Tuesday afternoon. And you dont expect us to go on with an election where one person is represented and the other is not. I believe what we have decided is the best. There was no election and we will communicate when materials for the election will be distributed and election conducted. The electoral chiefs position notwithstanding, the Lagos State APC chairman, Tunde Balogun, went ahead to announce the result of the election and declare Mr Sanwo-olu the winner on Tuesday night. With the declaration, Governor Ambodes chance of seeking re-election appears to have ended unless he changes political party. Mr Sanwo-Olu, who will be the APC govenrorship candidate in 2019, will face challengers from other parties for the governorship seat. Gbenga Makanjuola, the deputy chief of staff to Senate President Bukola Saraki, and one Obiorah Amobi were Wednesday remanded in prison by a federal judge over fraud charges totalling N3.5 billion. Messrs Makanjuola and Amobi were arraigned alongside Melrose General Services Limited on an 11-count charge bordering on fraud by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission before Babs Kuewumi, a judge of the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court. Also joined as a defendant in the suit is Kolawole Shittu, a cashier in the senate presidents office. Ekene Iheanacho, the EFCC prosecutor, said the defendants and one Robert Mbonu (now at large) had sometime in December 2016 conspired among themselves to disguise the origin of N3.5 billion which was paid into Melrose General Services Limited account with Access Bank Plc. The Commission said the third accused, Mr Amobi, who is the operation manager of Melrose General Services between December 15 and 17, 2016, made a cash payment of N300 million to Mr Mbonu from the said N3.5 billion, without going through a financial institution. They also accused Messrs Makanjuola and Shittu of making cash payments, in December 2016, totaling $1.5 million of $500, 000 in three tranches, between themselves without going through a financial institution. The offences, according to the prosecutor, are contrary to 18, 15(2)(d), 15(2)(b) 1(a) and 16(2)(b) of Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011, and punishable under Sections 15(3) and 16 (2)(b) of the same act. They pleaded not guilty to the charges. Following their arraignment, Mr Iheanacho asked that the defendants be remanded in prison while also seeking for a trial date. Responding, Mr Makanjuolas lawyer, Paul Erokoro, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, drew the courts attention to his clients bail application. He said the application has been served on the prosecution and sought the courts permission to move it. A similar request was also made by Mr Amobis lawyer, Omeoga Chukwu. The court granted the two lawyers the permission to move their bail applications. In his argument, Mr Erokoro said his client was a former member of the House of Representatives and as such he is prepared to face his trial. My client is a full-time staff at the Senate and is not a flight risk. He was a member of the House of Representatives. I urge the court to grant him bail to prepare for his trial, he said. Mr Chukwu also pleaded with the court to admit his client to bail on liberal terms. However, in his response, EFCCs lawyer, Mr Iheanacho, urged the court to dismiss the applications saying the defendants constitute a flight risk. One of the defendants has absconded. The chances that the other defendants will abscond are now higher with their arraignment. We urge the court to refuse the defences requests, he said. After listening to the submissions of parties in the matter, the judge adjourned till October 9 for ruling on the bail applications. Some of the counts against the defendants are:: That you, Robert Chidozie Mbonu (now at large), Melrose General Services Limited, Gbenga Makanjuola and other persons at large sometimes in December 2016 in Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, conspired amongst yourselves to disguise the unlawful origin of the sum of N3.5 billion paid into the account of Melrose General Services Limited and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 (as amended by the Act No. 2012)and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act. That you, Robert Chidozie Mbonu (now at large) and Melrose General Services Limited, between the 14th day of December, 2016 and January, 2017 in Nigeria, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court took control of N3.5 billion transferred from the Nigeria Governors Forums Account into Access Bank Plc Account Number, 0005892453 operated by Melrose General Services Limited when you reasonably ought to have known that the said fund represented the proceeds of unlawful activities to wit: conspiracy, stealing and fraud, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 (as amended by the Act No. 1, 2012) and punishable under Section 15 (3)of the same Act. The Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, has conceded defeat in the governorship primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC). In a broadcast on state television at 3:30 p.m., Mr Ambode congratulated Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his challenger for the partys ticket with whom he had been locked in a fierce contest in recent weeks. The interest of our beloved state must always supersede that of any person or group, Mr Ambode said. It is in this regard, that I wholeheartedly congratulate the winner of Lagos State APC primaries, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and urge all Lagosians to immediately support our partys gubernatorial candidate in the 2019 elections and work for the success of our dear party. As governor, I will do everything possible to ensure smooth transition of this administration and to the new governor come May 2019, he added. Mr Ambode had criticised the primaries held on Tuesday across the state, with both him and his loyalists alleging disenfranchisement, violence and other electoral malpractices. Fouad Oki, a factional leader of the APC who backed Mr Ambode in the primaries, threatened to conduct a parallel exercise because political thugs prevented potential voters of the governor from voting. They also said some APC members who visited ward units to cast their votes using membership slips rather than electronic chips were driven away. A video was circulated online appearing to show a loyalist of Mr Sanwo-Olu threatening violence against anyone who voted for Mr Ambode at a polling centre as police officers stood watch. But the state chapter controlled by Tunde Balogun said the claims of Mr Ambodes loyalists were false and untenable. Mr Balogun went on to announce the results late Tuesday. He pronounced Mr Sanwo-Olu winner with 970, 851 votes against Mr Ambodes 70, 901 votes, becoming the first incumbent to lose own partys governorship ticket in the 2019 general election season. It initially looked like the exercise would not stand when on Tuesday evening the electoral panel sent in from the partys national headquarters in Abuja said it was unaware of any primaries and that all the items needed to conduct the election were, in fact, in their possession. But by Wednesday morning, Clement Ebiri, who led the panel, shifted grounds and declared Mr Sanwo-Olu winner, upholding the results announced late Tuesday by Mr Balogun. Mr Ebiri did not say why he changed his mind over a 12-hour period. A spokesperson for the APC did not return requests for clarification from PREMIUM TIMES. Adams Oshiomhole, the partys national chairman, was reported to have said Mr Ebiris panel was sent to Lagos to collate results and not actually conduct the exercise, which took place at 245 wards across the state. Although Mr Sanwo-Olu was unveiled to the public only recently, his victory appears to have been the outcome of a long-time politicking amongst Lagos power brokers led by Mr Tinubu. No sooner had the candidate submitted the partys nomination form on September 12 than crucial endorsements began to stream in for him. Between mid-September and October 2 when the primaries held, virtually all the biggest voices in Lagos APC politics had openly backed Mr Sanwo-Olu, including Mr Tinubu, who castigated Mr Ambode two days to the primaries after weeks of shying away from openly endorsing a candidate. Mr Ambodes concession statement was silent on specifics about his political future, although he hinted he might remain in the APC going into the election. There had been rumours he might defect to the Peoples Democratic Party to actualise his re-election hopes, with many attributing the opposition partys delay in conducting primaries in Lagos to Mr Ambodes possible defection to its folds. Political analysts are suspecting that expectation might have been buried based on Mr Ambodes assurances that he would respect the verdict of APC primaries voters and work towards Mr Sanwo-Olus victory and seamless transition into office. You have to understand that the governor could be impeached if he defects, Femi Arobayo, an APC strategist in Lagos, told PREMIUM TIMES Wednesday evening. He does not want to be the first Lagos governor to be impeached, more so when he could still benefit from the party in future. The governor has been rejected by 36 out of 40 members of Lagos State House of Assembly. His deputy governor, Idiat Adebule, abandoned him as primaries got underway Tuesday, voting for Mr Sanwo-Olu instead. With all these developments in mind, the governor knows things could get even worse if he moves to another party, Mr Arobayo said. It is a good thing he conceded, we only hope it is from the bottom of his heart. Mr Ambodes concession speech is reproduced in full below: ADDRESS DELIVERED BY THE GOVERNOR OF LAGOS STATE, HIS EXCELLENCY, MR. AKINWUNMI AMBODE, ON THE APC LAGOS STATE GOVERNORSHIP PRIMARIES ON WEDNESDAY, 3RD OCTOBER, 2018 Fellow Lagosians, the last few days have witnessed intense political activities that have gripped the attention of the nation and created palpable tension in the polity. I strongly believe that the time has now come for the State to move forward in order that the gains of the last three and half years are not lost. Dear Lagosians, APC is a great party and the interests of our beloved State must always supercede that of any person or group. It is in this regard that I wholeheartedly congratulate the winner of the Lagos State APC Primaries, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and urge all Lagosians to immediately support our partys gubernatorial candidate in the 2019 elections and work for the success of our dear party. As Governor, I will do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition in the remaining period of this administration and ultimately to the new Governor, come May 2019. I therefore appeal to all our party members that we remain one family and unite behind the candidate of the party, so that we can continue to move this state forward. The progress of Lagos state is non-negotiable. It is a project that I have passionately worked for in the last three and half years as your Governor and one to which I will forever be devoted. I wish to use this opportunity to thank our national leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the leadership of our great party at state and national levels, all party faithfuls and all Lagosians. I thank all Lagosians for their faith and trust in me. I urge you not to relent in your support for our party as we prepare for the general elections. Long Live Nigeria Long Live Lagos State Long Live APC Itesiwaju Ipinle Eko, lo jewa logun. HIS EXCELLENCY, MR. AKINWUNMI AMBODE GOVERNOR, LAGOS STATE 3rd October, 2018 The Nigerian Army on Wednesday cordoned off Dura Du community in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, where the car of a missing general, Muhammed Alkali, was recently found in a pond. The army also arrested some suspects. The operation began in the early hours of Wednesday. PREMIUM TIMES had reported how the car of the missing general was found in the communitys pond after some residents earlier tried unsuccessfully to stop the draining of the pond by military personnel. A blood-stained T-shirt and a boxer short believed to belong to the general were found in the car on Saturday. The major general was declared missing since September 3, when he was travelling from Abuja to Bauchi. Since the discovery of the car, there had been fears the military could attack the community in retaliation. Wednesdays operation is coming a day after the army assured the community that it will not carry out retaliatory attacks on the community. It had however urged the community to assist it in solving the mystery. The military earlier on Tuesday discovered more vehicles submerged in the communitys pool. Kayode Ogunsanya a deputy director, information, 3 Division, confirmed the latest arrests in an SMS sent to our correspondent in Jos on Wednesday. He also explained why the military was taking the action but not why it was not relying on the police. It is normal that when you conduct such operation, some people will be apprehended. They were screened and sorted out based on the degree of their culpability at the venue. After sorting out, the suspects were arrested and brought to the barracks for further investigation, Mr Ogunsanya said. When asked about the number of people arrested, he said, at the moment I cannot ascertain the number of people arrested. Efforts made to reach a spokesperson of the Berom Youth Movement, the prominent group which represents the interests of the natives, were unsuccessful as he did not respond to calls. Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State on Wednesday night held a closed- door meeting with former President Olusegun Obasanjo in his Abeokuta residence. Mr Tambuwal seeks to be president in 2019 on the platform of the opposition party, PDP. Mr Tambuwal who addressed journalists after the meeting which lasted for about 50 minutes and ended few minutes to 9.p.m. said he was in Abeokuta to consult with Mr Obasanjo in respect of the 2019 polls. Obasanjo is one of the critical leaders of the country and it is necessary for me to consult with him concerning the 2019 polls, particularly on my aspiration to contest for the presidency of Nigeria. Mr Obasanjo who led Nigeria on the PDP platform (1999-2007) left the party in the build up to the 2015 general election. Although he supported President Muhammadu Buhari then, he has since fallen out with the president and is working against his re-election. The governor expressed optimism that Nigeria could still attain greater and enviable height particularly if the citizens vote rightly in the 2019 polls. He advised that every component part of the nation should be given an opportunity and sense of belonging in the Nigerian context. Mr Tambuwal also urged political gladiators not to make the 2019 election a matter of do or die. He described the clamour by the youths for increased participation in the governance process in Nigeria as justified considering the high percentage of their population in the country. Mr Tambuwal called on the present leadership to accord them more opportunities to participate in governance process. The Sokoto governor is one of the leading aspirants for the presidential ticket of the opposition party, PDP. He is believed to enjoy the support of Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, who has a huge influence in the PDP and was able to influence the choice of Port Harcourt as venue of the partys presidential primary. The PDP presidential primary holds in the Rivers State capital on Saturday and Sunday. At least 14 people were killed by gunmen in a Tuesday night attack in Jol Village of Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, an official has said. The caretaker chairman of Riyom LGA confirmed the attack to PREMIUM TIMES in a telephone interview. This attack is coming two days after President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the recent violence that rocked Jos, the Plateau State capital, leading to some deaths over the weekend. Like President Buhari, Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau, in his Independence Day speech, also condemned the recent violence and urged residents to live in peace. The Tuesday night killing occurred despite the calls for peace. The Riyom council chairman, Emmanuel Jugu, told PREMIUM TIMES in a telephone interview that the attack occurred on Tuesday night. The attack is true. Fourteen persons including women and children were killed by gunmen. Security personnel in the area have seen the corpses, he said. The identity of the attackers could not be determined as at the time of this report. Several calls put to Tyopev Terna, the state police spokesperson, on the attack was not responded to. Also, calls put to spokesperson of a joint security operation, OPSH, Adam Umar, an army major, were not responded. The Plateau State commissioner of information and communication, Yakubu Dati, could also not be reached on his known telephone number as at the time of this report. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has asked a Federal High Court in Lagos to dismiss a motion filed by a former Minister of State for Finance, Nenadi Usman, seeking to commit the Information Minister, Lai Mohammed, to prison for alleged contempt. Ms Usman is standing trial alongside former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, a former Chairman of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) Yusuf Danjuma, and a company, Joint trust Dimension Ltd, over money laundering charges. In a motion on notice brought through her lawyer, Ferdinand Orbih, the former minister argued that the inclusion of her name on the looters list released by the information minister during the course of an alleged fraud case against her was contemptuous. However, responding to the arguments on the motion, EFCCs lawyer, Rotimi Oyedepo, urged the court to decline Ms Usmans request . Mr Oyedepo insisted that the applicant (Nenadi) was never referred to as a looter by the information minister, arguing that what was published by some newspapers only bordered on allegations which could not be said to be prejudicial to the applicants case in court. He further argued that there was no advertorial from the Ministry of Information to substantiate the claims against the information minister. He said: The minister of information is not a party to the criminal proceedings against the applicant; there is no evidence to show that the alleged contemnor works with the various media houses that published the alleged offensive publication. Besides, there were no allegations against the media houses that published the alleged offensive publication. There was nothing that connected the ministry of information to the motion which was taken out to annoy the prosecution; the motion is lacking in substance, it is an abuse of courts process and should be dismissed. Justice Mohammed Aikawa reserved his ruling on the motion until November 16. (NAN)) The All Progressives Congress (APC) has cleared three more aspirants for its senatorial primaries. The National Working Commttee (NWC) of the party cleared Kabir Barkiya and Bello Madiya from Katsina State and Yusuf Galambi from Jigawa State. This was contained in a statement by the partys publicity secretary, Yekini Nabena, late Tuesday night. The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has cleared Katsina aspirants, Engr. Kabir Abdullahi Barkiya and Bello Madiya to contest the Partys primaries. A Jigawa State aspirant, Yusuf Shittu Galambi has also been cleared by the Party NWC to contest the Senate primaries in the state. The partys senatorial primaries, which was scheduled initially to hold Tuesday will hold Wednesday. A civil society organisation has promised to begin the training and retraining of Nigerian politicians and political parties, in a bid to instil the needed qualities for rendering better services to Nigerians. The organisation, Stand Up Speak Out (SUSO) Initiative on Monday, said it is important for the Nigerian populace home and abroad to be involved in making Nigeria a better place. Speaking at the launch of the initiative in Abuja, the chairman of the organisation, Doyle Edeni, said the SUSO initiative was started for the reorientation of the citizens. Mr Edeni said the initiative is for all Nigerians. According to him, things will remain the same in Nigeria until citizens begin to exhibit a change of mind set and seek solutions to challenges facing the nation. He said the initiative is for all Nigerians to own and form a bond with the aim of accomplishing that better Nigeria of their dream. As Nigerians, we cannot continue to bear the scars of what other people label us as, Mr Edeni said. He said citizens must learn to be concerned about the output of policy makers and those elected into office. He said the Nigerian dream can be referred to as the basic desire of every citizen to have a good home, raise a family and do what they are passionate about; but these must be achieved in a debt-free manner. He said the quest to survive and succeed can hardly be achieved in the midst of the harsh circumstances and challenges facing the country. There must be a reorientation of every Nigerian. It is fraudulent for us to try to imitate the westerners in all we do, we should be very comfortable in what we have and who we are, he said. Speaking on approaches to achieve the Nigeria of every citizens dream, Mr Edeni said SUSO is an organic campaign founded to define the real true Nigerian. It also aims at re-awakening national consciousness among citizens by giving a voice to the ordinary hardworking Nigerians. There must be a rediscovery of the strength in our diversity and the creation of a new indomitable national spirit of unity through the empowerment of citizens to rise up to their true potential. We will also focus on re-igniting the passion for accountability and dignity through raising champions to identify and showcase role models in the society, Mr. Edeni said. Also speaking, a member of the board of trustees, Ibiere Dateme, said SUSO will adopt direct campaigns, grassroots intervention, town hall meetings, institutional campaigns, constructive engagements and collaboration with government agencies like the National Youth Service Corps, the ministry of youth and development among many others to create an enabling environment to bring the desired societal change. She said there is no membership benchmark as every citizen, from the age of 12 and above, who meets the initiatives set criteria, can become a member of SUSO. A former senate president and presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), David Mark, has said he will revamp Nigerias economy within two years and also halt the intractable security challenge, if voted into office. He said this to members of the party when he visited Otukpo, Benue State as he urged delegates of the party to vote for him in the upcoming presidential primaries. According to a statement by his media assistant, Paul Mumeh, Mr Mark said he has the interest of unity, stability and prosperity of the nation and that the peace and unity of Nigeria supersedes any other consideration. While stating that Nigeria has gone through avoidable turbulent times in the last few years, he said only a man with the requisite knowledge, experience and passion for the country like him, can salvage the situation. I am the bridge Nigeria needs now. I will be the bridge between the North and South and between the old and young. I will be with you and serve the nation diligently. I will be there for you. I will not let you down. I will be the last man standing. The situation in the country more than ever before, demands ready hands, stable character and commitment to the ideals of nation hood. I am committed to the sanctity of our unity. We must restore the trust and confidence in our people. We all have a stake in Nigeria. We have no other place to call ours, he said. While reminding delegates to vote wisely at the convention, he stressed that his record of service in various parts of Nigeria over the years put him in a better stead to serve the nation creditably. The lawmaker added that he possesses the requisite executive and legislative experiences to lead Nigeria to prosperity and restore the trust and respect of the international community. He expressed confidence that the governor Ifeanyi Okowa-led National Convention Planning Committee would do a good job. Over the past few weeks, Mr Mark has visited past Nigerian leaders to seek their support for his presidential ambition. Some of those he visited are former president, Goodluck Jonathan, Nigerias former Head of State, Abdulsalam Abubakar and former military president, Ibrahim Babangida. Mr Mark, who represents Benue South at the senate, recently declared his ambition to run for president in 2019. He has also purchased his presidential nomination form from the PDP secretariat. The lawmaker, the longest serving senate president in Nigerias history, joins a list of over a dozen aspirants who declare their intention to run for president under the PDP platform. He specifically promised to tackle poverty, unemployment and neglect which he said have forced some Nigerian youth to undertake the very risky route of going through the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea in their quest for greener pastures in Europe. The partys presidential primaries and national convention has been scheduled for October 6 and 7 in Port Harcourt, River State amidst controversies. There are at least 12 aspirants vying for the PDP ticket including ex-vice president Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Bukola Saraki and Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto. The partys National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, earlier assured party members that its national convention to elect the partys presidential candidate for the 2019 election will be transparent and successful. He said the party has put in place strategies to carry all the aspirants along in the processes of the convention. Apart from a serving senator, Nelson Effiong, no other aspirant has been cleared by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest the partys primary for the Akwa Ibom South District. Mr Effiong, who was first elected senator on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before his defection to the APC, will, therefore, run unopposed in the primary holding on Wednesday. A former state chairman of PDP, Otu Toyo, who defected to APC since 2015, was one of the two persons who bought nomination form for the primary. The other is Victor Antai, a former commissioner in the state who was sacked from the state executive council two months ago by Governor Udom Emmanuel for shifting his loyalty to a senator, Godswill Akpabio, when Mr Akpabio defected from the PDP to the APC. The party has not given any reason for disqualifying the two aspirants. People interviewed by PREMIUM TIMES on the issue said Messrs Toyo and Antai had higher chances of winning the election against the incumbent senator. PREMIUM TIMES could not immediately reach the aspirants or the party for their comments. Mr Toyo, during an interview with PREMIUM TIMES last month, had appealed to the APC and the people of the district to ensure that only the best is given the party ticket for the 2019 senate race. Akwa Ibom, he said, had not been fortunate to have good representation at the National Assembly. Akwa Ibom cant afford to be like this; we have such good, intelligent, qualified people, why do we send the people we sent? That is self-inflicted, nobody sends them for us, he said, adding that the time had come for things to be done differently in the oil-rich state. In the next assembly, I am expecting that Akwa Ibom will send three very serious people to the Senate because this is a chance in about four generations. The last time Nigeria was restructured was about 1914, it is 104 years now. If we miss that next time, we will probably have to wait another 100 years. And so, we cant afford to toy with this one, he said. The senator representing the Akwa Ibom North-West District, Mr Akpabio, is also running unopposed for the APC ticket; all other aspirants stepped down for him. For the Akwa Ibom North-East District, three aspirants were cleared by the party to contest for its ticket. They are Kufre Etuk, a former member who represented Uruan State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly; Emmanuel Ekpenyong, a former member of the House of Representatives; and James Ekpe. All is not well in the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State, as the state executive committee of the party has rejected the award of an automatic ticket by the National Working Committee of the party to the senator representing Ondo North senatorial district, Robert Boroffice, for the senatorial election. The NWC gave the ticket to Mr Boroffice against the wish of the state governor, Rotimi Akeredolu. The two other serving senators, Tayo Alasoadura (central) and Yele Omogunwa (south), were also awarded automatic tickets, as their opponents in the primaries were disqualified. The state chapter of the party is urging the NWC to reverse the automatic nomination of Mr Boroffice in the interest of fairness to those who had been loyal to the party. The war between the senator and the party in the state stemmed from the controversies which bedevilled the primaries of the party during the 2016 governorship election and the events after the election. The state chapter, in a statement by its Director of Publicity, Steve Otaloro, expressed its displeasure over the handling of the screening exercise, saying it was capable of creating apathy among dedicated members of the party in the state. At an emergency meeting of stakeholders in Akure on Tuesday, the party observed that the action of its national secretariat had encouraged Mr Borroffice and his disciples who had allegedly been walking the path of destroying the party in the state by stirring commotion, disaffection and widespread apathy among members of the party. The party said clearing Mr Boroffice had dampened the spirits of those who had sacrificed to get the party to its enviable position in the state. It alleged that the senator had never contributed anything to the activities of APC in the state and had engaged in anti-party activities, noting that one of such activities nearly cost the party the governorship election. Every politics is local, as they say, but Senator Boroffices type of politics is a deviation. He hobnobs with the powers that be, at 40, Blantyre Street, Wuse, Abuja, mud-slinging the leadership of the party in the state to get his wish done, to become presented as the only candidate for the coming senatorial election, the statement read. It was noted that, through a backdoor snitch on other contestants who are equally contesting the same senatorial seat, Senator Boroffice got a preferential clearance as the party flag bearer. He needed explaining that. The stakeholders meeting resolved that the backdoor arrangement that favoured the likes of Borrofice against other aspirants notable amongst whom are the human right lawyer, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, a former House Speaker, and grassroots mobilizer Hon, Victor Olabimtan, is considered unfair, unjust and stands rejected. The party stakeholders, however, noted that its national leadership was not to be blamed for the development, as it was misled by the said senator. The likes of Borroffice and few others asked for direct primary, they got, but what they did with it is appalling, the party said. This unfortunate decision of giving certain members preference over the others, by clearing them to contest, but weaved disqualification for others has the propensity of destroying the strong sense of oneness of our members in the state. This should be condemned by all reasonable persons. It should not stand. We have no doubt that our partys national leadership will reassess the issue and correct it. The party also alleged that Mr Borroffice had for a long time disconnected himself from the party in the state, a situation that would make it difficult for loyal party members to campaign for APC in the coming election. We urge our leadership to reverse its decision for the good tenets of democracy to flourish. Democracy is a system that promotes the rule of law, not individuals, it added. In his reaction, Mr Boroffice said he was not involved in any backdoor arrangement as regards the senatorial primary election of the APC in his senatorial district. A statement by his Press Secretary, Kayode Fakuyi, on Wednesday, said the outcome of the exercise was not a surprise as the senator had participated and won competitive elections in the past. As it was done in the past, on Tuesday, Senator Ajayi Boroffice rolled out his political machinery across the 72 wards in Ondo North senatorial district for a competitive primary election, the statement said. We were at the designated voting centres when the National leadership of APC published results of the screening exercise. As regards the screening exercise, we are aware the party considered many parameters, including qualification, competence, experience and loyalty to the ideology of the All Progressives Congress. Therefore, Senator Ajayi Boroffice should be counted out of any backdoor arrangement. As a matter of fact, the allegation of backdoor arrangement is an imaginative and imagined fabrication. There is no such thing like backdoor arrangement. The statement further described as crass crudity for the APC in the state to single out Mr Boroffice for media attack, even though the APC released results of the screening exercise for the three senatorial districts of the state. It said the leaders and stakeholders of the party should be assured that Mr Borroffice would mobilise party members and voters in the 72 wards of Ondo North senatorial district and beyond for the victory of the APC at all levels in the 2019 general elections. Peter Akpatason, representing Akoko-Edo in the House of Representatives, says loyal members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the house will carry out the partys instruction on Speaker Yakubu Dogara. Mr Akpatason spoke with journalists in Benin on Wednesday, against the backdrop of the recent defection of the speaker to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He said that when the house reconvened, the needful would be done regarding the leadership of both chambers of the National Assembly. He did not elaborate. The lawmaker, however, emphasised that whatever would be done to address the issue would be according to the law of land. According to the former NUPENG president, it is an aberration for a member of another (minority) political party to continue to be speaker of the House of Representatives. We, as party loyalists, will carry out any instruction we get from the party. We will study the situation when we get back. Whatever the situation is will be what we will react to. We cannot be happy to have a speaker that belongs to another party. It is an aberration and has to be treated as such, he said. Speaking on the ongoing APC primaries, Mr Akpatason, who is seeking a return ticket to the House of Representatives, said his constituents were in support of his third term bid. According to him, the postponement of the partys primaries for the NASS would make the aspirants lose money. He said that any money already given out for logistics would not be returned when elections were postponed. The lawmaker also warned the APC leadership against manipulation of the partys primaries. Mr Akpatason noted that direct primaries were not prone to manipulation like the indirect primaries in which delegates could be bribed. According to him, whoever is planning to manipulate the primaries does not love the party hence the need to watch out for moles. Such a person wants the APC to lose in the main election. If this election is manipulated, chances of the APC winning the general elections will be slim. In a situation where you sit down and select people based on sentiments and not on individual popularity and ability to win elections, people will have other options, he added. (NAN) An Ikeja High Court on Wednesday sentenced a 28-year-old man, Collins Abakwe, to 10 years in prison for stabbing his younger brother Chibuike Abakwe to death during an argument over a girl. The judge, Raliat Adebiyi, sentenced the convict, who was arraigned on a charge of murder in 2013, after finding him guilty of a lesser charge of involuntary manslaughter. The initial charge of murder was commuted to manslaughter, following a plea bargain agreement the convict had with the state, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports. Following the plea bargain agreement, Mr Abakwe was re-arraigned on Wednesday and he pleaded guilty to an amended charge of manslaughter. The court is satisfied with the jail term agreed upon by the prosecution and defence counsel. The defendant is hereby sentenced to 10 years imprisonment, Mrs Adebiyi said. Before handing down the sentence, Mrs Adebiyi enquired from Mr Abakwe whether he understood the meaning of the agreement he had entered into. He, replying in the affirmative, told the court that he had signed the agreement himself. According to O.A. Olugasa, the lead state prosecutor, the convict committed the offence on Valentines Day in 2013 at No. 54, Adeyanju St., Amukoko, Lagos. Collins stabbed his younger brother, Chibuike to death with a broken bottle during an argument. The siblings were arguing over a friends girlfriend, who was trying to pass the night in their home. The misunderstanding became very violent and Collins ended up stabbing his younger brother, resulting in his death, she said. Mr Olugasa also requested that the court should order the family of the convict to admit him in a rehabilitation centre. This is to enable him undergo proper counseling when he finishes his prison term, she said. The offences contravened Sections 221 and 227 of the Criminal Law of Lagos 2011. (NAN) President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to attend the passing out of the Regular Course participants of the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA) on Saturday in Kaduna, the institution said in a statement. The statement was issued by the spokesman of the institution, Abubakar Abdullahi, on Wednesday in Kaduna. He said that the event would affect vehicular movement around the institution and advised motorists to use alternative routes. Consequently, Kawo-Mando-Airport road in Kaduna will be busy from 5 a.m.-5 p.m., road users who do not have anything to do around the area are advised to use alternative routes to avoid unnecessary bottleneck. The alternative routes are; Airport-Rigachukun and Mando-Rigasa Railway station-Rigasa-Nnamdi Azikwe road, Abdullahi said. NAN reports that 365 cadets of the NDA regular course, two of them from Republics of Togo and Benin, would pass out during the event. The NDA would also offer honourary doctorate degrees to prominent businessman Mohammed Indimi; Akinwumi Adesina, President, African Development Bank; and C.I. Obiako, a former military adviser at the United Nations. About 131 graduating cadets will be commissioned into the Nigerian Army and the rest into the Navy and Air Force. The premier military academy has so far trained over 20,000 officers since inception, with a small fraction from Benin Republic, Gambia, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Togo and other countries. (NAN) The lawyer representing Maryam Sanda, the suspect who allegedly killed her husband, Bilyamin Bello, has withdrawn from the trial Mrs Sanda is facing a two-count charge of homicide for the alleged murder of her husband. The deceased was the son of a former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Haliru Bello. She was arraigned at the court by the Nigeria Police alongside Maimuna Aliyu, her mother; Aliyu Sanda, her brother, and Sadiya Aminu, her housemaid, whom are also accused of conspiracy to murder. In a notice of withdrawal of counsel filed before the court and signed by Joseph Daudu, said to be in pursuant to Section 492(3) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, the counsel asked the court to take notice that Mr. J.B. Daudu (SAN) hereby withdraws appearance as counsel to Maryam Sanda charged as 1st defendant in this case. The notice by Mr Daudu, a former president of the Nigeria Bar Association, was dated September 18. Apart from Mr Daudu, the counsel to Mrs Sandas mother, Rotimi Ogunesan, also withdrew from the trial. Mr Ogunesan, in a separate letter dated September 20, informed the court of his withdrawal from the trial. When contacted by PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday, Mr Ogunesan said the withdrawal is on a personal note that needs not to be disclosed to the public. The trial which was scheduled to resume on Thursday is not expected to proceed as planned as the remaining legal team for the defendants (from the Chambers of Ricky Tarfa & co) had written to the court registrar to apply for a vacation of the scheduled date of October 4 and for an adjournment. The letter, signed by the chambers deputy head, Olusegun Jolaawo, stated that, The matter stands adjourned to the 4th of October, 2018 for continuation of hearing. However, the 1st defendant, Maryam Sanda was delivered of a baby boy on the 7th of August, 2018 at the Nizamiye Hospital Ltd. Abuja and is still recuperating. She is not yet strong enough to withstand the rigors of trial. We are in receipt of notices of withdrawal of representation recently filed by the counsels to the 1st and 2nd defendants herein and pursuant to which there has been indication from the said defendants that we are to take over the representation of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd defendants in addition to that of the 4th defendant. the letter added. With these developments, the court has been asked to consider November 7, 8, 13 or 14 as possible new dates for the continuation of trial. The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is to provide scholarship to Elizabeth Elijah who was hit by flying debris from the crashed fighter jet during air training for Nigeria Independence Day celebration. The Director, FCT Universal Basic Education Board (UBEC), Adamu Noma, disclosed this when he visited the girl at Maitama General Hospital, Abuja, with some directors who represented the administration on Wednesday in Abuja. According to him, the FCT Administration has decided to take care of all expenses for her education, explaining that the scholarship will take care of all her schooling. As soon as she is discharged from hospital, the scholarship will commence, Mr Noma assured. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Miss Elijah was said to be in the farm at Mpape near Maitama District, that fateful day when the ill-fated NAF aircraft mishap happened and she was hit by flying debris from the fighter jet. The ill-fated fighter jet collided with another killing the pilot during air training for Nigeria Independence Day celebration where Miss Elijah was hit and injured at the leg by fragments of the jet. Mr Noma also assured that the FCTA has granted her scholarship to university level and that they will be ready to foot her bills for as long as she can go in educational pursuit. He said the FCT Administration would be responsible for her tuition, books, uniform, foot wears and any other requirement needed in school. Ahmad Rani, Director FCT Scholarship Board, confirmed the scholarship, adding that the board is ready to foot the bills and follow her up. The girl, who is responding to treatment, has been stabilised from the trauma and the injury, and will be discharged soon. NAN also learnt that Miss Elijah, 15, hails from Kachia, Kaduna State, but resides with her family at Chikoko village in Bwari Area Council of the FCT. She completed primary six in Chikoko, but poverty prevented from proceeding for secondary education. NAN also gathered that her father could not afford transport fare from the village to see her at the Maitama Hospital. Among those who visited Miss Elijah at the hospital where the scholarship form was presented to the family for proper documentation include the Director, FCT Scholarship Board, and Director of FCT Call Centre, Jummai Amadu. (NAN) Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State and his Ondo State counterpart, Rotimi Akeredolu, on Wednesday visited the Presidential Villa, Abuja, to meet with President Muhammadu Buhari. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) gathered that the visit of the two governors, who headed straight to the presidents office, may not be unconnected with the outcome of the All Progressives Congress primaries and screening exercise conducted by the partys headquarters. Both governors are members of the APC. It would be recalled that Shehu Sani, a serving senator, was the only aspirant cleared by the national headquarters of the APC to contest for the Kaduna Central Senatorial seat against Mr El-Rufais wish. Prior to Mr Sanis clearance, the governor had endorsed his Political Adviser, Uba Sani, as sole candidate of the APC for the senatorial seat. The governor had also insisted that party primary be held to determine the partys flag-bearer in the 2019 senatorial poll instead of the automatic endorsement of incumbent senator. NAN learnt that Uba Sani, had since gone to court to stop Shehu Sanis automatic endorsement by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC. The APC Senate screening committee also cleared Ajayi Borrofice, a serving senator, as sole aspirant for Ondo North Senatorial seat against the wish of the state governor, who had wanted to dislodge him through a primary. The outcome of the governors visit to villa was still unknown as of the time of filing this report as no statement or confirmation on whether the governors were able to meet with the president or not. (NAN) In a report published on September 18, Citizen Lab said it had detected Pegasus, a spyware created for mobile devices, in over 45 countries. Pegasus, which transforms a cellphone into a mobile surveillance station, could have been deployed against a range of journalists and civil society actors in Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Morocco, Togo, Israel, the U.S., and the United Arab Emirates, the report found. Researchers have previously identified a number of major Pegasus campaigns, including one against investigative journalists in Mexico, and another against human rights workers in Saudi Arabia. The spywares presence in 45 countries raises significant implications for journalists, both in terms of their own security as well as the safety of their sources. The spyware gives the attacker the ability to monitor, record, and collect existing and future data from the phone. This includes calls and information from messaging applications and real-time location data. The spyware is able to remotely activate the camera and microphone to surveil the target and their surroundings. Pegasus is designed to be installed on phones running Android, BlackBerry OS, and iOS without alerting the target to its presence. Journalists will likely only know if their phone has been infected if the device is inspected by a tech expert. Pegasus can be installed in a number of ways. Journalists should be aware of these methods and take appropriate steps to protect them and their sources. Spear-phishing attacks Attackers create tailor-made messages that are sent to a specific journalist. These messages convey a sense of urgency and contain a link or a document which the journalist is encouraged to click on. The messages come in a variety of forms, including SMS, email, through messaging apps such as WhatsApp or via messages on social media platforms. Once the journalist has clicked on the link, then the spyware is installed on their phone. Research by Citizen Lab and Amnesty International found that messages tend to take the following forms:Messages purporting to be from a known organization such as an embassy or a local news organization. Messages that warn the target may be facing an immediate security threat. Messages that raise any work-related issue, such as covering an event that the target usually reports on. Messages that make appeals to personal matters, such as those relating to compromising photos of partners. Financial messages that reference purchases, credit cards, or banking details. The suspect messages may also arrive from unknown numbers. Attackers can target personal and work phones. To better protect themselves and their sources, journalists should: Verify the link with the sender through a different channel of communication. This should preferably be through video or voice. If the sender is not previously known to you, secondary channels may not provide successful verification of the links, as secondary channels may be set up by the adversary as part of an elaborate cover identity. If the link utilizes a URL shortener service like TinyURL or Bitly, input the link into a URL expander service such as Link Expander or URLEX. If the expanded link looks suspicious, for instance mimicking a local news website but not being quite the same, do not click the link and forward it to phishtank@cpj.org. If you feel you need to open the link, do not use your primary device. Open the link on a separate, secondary device that does not have any sensitive information or contact details, and is used solely for viewing links. Carry out a factory reset on the device regularly (keeping in mind that this might not remove the spyware). Keep the secondary device turned off, with the battery removed, when not in use. Use a non-default browser for the phone. Pegasus is believed to target default browsers. The default browser for Android is Chrome and the default browser for iOS is Safari. Use an alternative browser such as Firefox Focus and open the link in that. However, there is no guarantee that Pegasus will not, or has not, already targeted other browsers. Physically installed by an adversary Pegasus can also be installed on your phone if an adversary gains physical access to the device. To reduce risk: Do not leave your device unattended and avoid handing over your phone to others. When crossing a border or checkpoint ensure that you can see your phone at all times Turn off the phone before arriving at the checkpoint, and have a complex passphrase consisting of both letters and numbers. Be aware that if your phone is taken then the device may be compromised. If you believe your phone is infected by Pegasus immediately stop using that phone and purchase another one. You should leave the suspected device in a place that does not compromise you or your surroundings. If you have access to tech support through a media organization, contact them immediately for assistance. If you are a freelance journalist or a journalist that does not have access to tech support, contact the Access Now Helpline. CPJ is working alongside our partners to understand the full scope of the threat Pegasus poses to journalists. If you have received a suspicious message and believe you may have been targeted by Pegasus, please forward the message to phishtank@cpj.org. This information will be handled confidentially. For more information on technology security we encourage journalists to review the CPJs Security Guides Chapter on Technology Security and see the digital safety information included in our Resource Center. With thanks to Citizen Lab for valuable insight. The National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Biodun Ogunyemi, has reiterated the stance of his colleague that the federal government is planning to force students in public universities to pay N350,000 tuition fee per session. Punch newspaper earlier reported the allegation. According to the report, ASUUs Ibadan Zonal Coordinator, Ade Adejumo, said this when he was addressing reporters at the Oyo State Correspondents Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ibadan, the states capital. Mr Adejumo said the objection of the union to the proposed tuition fee increase led to the collapse of 2017/2018 renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU agreement. The union is again constrained to draw the attention of Nigerian public to an impending labour crisis in the Nigerian universities as a result of the insensitivity and non-challance of the Federal Government to issues critical to the survival of the educational system, he said. On the question of how the students will raise such money, the governments answer is that it will establish an Education Bank, where students will access credit facilities and pay back on completion of their studies. The union said it would resist the imposition of a fee hike. We described the development as a ploy to deprive the poor of their rights to education, saying if the Education Bank is established, many students would not be able to access loans. In an interview with PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday morning, the ASUU president said the figure was from a discussion with the government. According to him, the federal government wanted us to arrive at what it takes to sponsor an undergraduate and based on calculation, we arrived at that amount for Arts student and about 500,000 for science student. Our concern here is who pays and the government has not been releasing funds. We have suggested some other sources but we know government is the principal sponsor of public education because of the special role education plays in the development of any country, he said. Mr Ogunyemi said the proposal by the government is that an education bank will be established and loans will be given to students. There was massive corruption, he said, adding that government funds were diverted into private use in many zones that the banks were operating. By the time they found out they could not go ahead with the bank, a ministerial committee was set up during Federal Executive Council, to shut it down. Now they want us go back to the same bank we tried for seven years which did not work, he said. Mr Ogunyemi said one of the reasons that the education bank failed was because of governments inability to fulfil its financial obligation and after the first year there was no money in the banks vault. Mr Ogunyemi said the rate of unemployment which is scandalously high will deter most students from paying the loans. The federal government is yet to publicly speak on the allegation. When contacted, the spokesperson of federal ministry of education, Willie Bassey, said he needs to attend to urgent health issues. I am with my doctor now, please call me later, he said. Samuel Olowokere, the spokesperson for ministry of labour and employment, did not reply requests for comments from PREMIUM TIMES as at press time. President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday spoke with Rebecca Sharibu, mother of Leah, the Dapchi secondary schoolgirl kidnapped by Boko Haram terrorists. He assured her that his administration will do everything it would take to bring her daughter back home. This was revealed in a State House Press Release on Wednesday by presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu. Leah was abducted alongside about 109 of her schoolmates on February 19 in their school in Yobe State. About a month later on March 21, over 100 of the girls were released in a deal with the Nigerian government, with Leah the only one still with the Boko Haram. Leah was held back by her captors, reportedly because she refused to renounce her Christian faith. Since then, the government has been under pressure to negotiate her release, alongside those remaining in captivity among the schoolgirls captured four years earlier in Chibok, Borno State by the same terror group. According to the Wednesday State House statement, Mr Buhari consoled the Sharibu family and assured the parents that the federal government would do its utmost for the safety and security of their daughter. The statement quoted the president as telling Mrs Sharibu: I convey my emotion, the strong commitment of my administration and the solidarity of all Nigerians to you and your family as we will do our best to bring your daughter home in peace and safety. It said Mr Buhari assured the mother that his heart was with her family, as that of the entire nation which continues to pray for the safe return of our daughter, Leah. A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant, Aminu Tambuwal, of Sokoto State on Wednesday said he he was a firm believer in fiscal federalism and that he would restructure the country if elected president. Mr Tambuwal, the governor of Sokoto State, said this while addressing party members in Lagos adding that had the competence and credentials to move the country forward.. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the visit to the party secretariat was part of his nationwide tour to seek support for his aspiration. Mr Tambuwal said he was prepared for the job to pilot the affairs of the country to greatness as he had robust leadership experience. The aspirant added that he understood the complexities of governance, urging citizens to trust him to reposition the country. I am prepared for the job. I have served the nation in many capacities as Speaker of the House of Representatives, as governor among other positions. I understand the complexities the governance. You can trust me to reposition the country to the next level. I have the experience I have the passion, I believe in the Nigerian project, he said. Mr Tambuwal said the country was facing serious economic and security challenges which required a leader with the right solutions. The aspirant said if given the opportunity he would address all the problems within a short period of time. The aspirant expressed regret that as politically strategic as Lagos was, it had not been controlled by the PDP. Mr Tambuwal expressed the optimism that the PDP would win the state and pledged his support to make the goal a reality. He urged delegates from the state to show truly that they were from a state of excellence by voting for an excellent aspirant. Mr Tambuwal said if he was voted at the partys convention and as president, he would not forget the people of the state. In his remarks, the party chairman in the state, Adebola Dominic, thanked Mr Tambuwal for the visit. He said he had no doubt that he was suitable to be president and that the party believed in his aspiration. (NAN) President Muhammadu Buhari says he will soon bring all speculations to an end by naming a Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) to lead the All Progressives Congress (APC) to victory in the February 2019 general elections. Mr Buhari says he is aware of the yearning by some Nigerians for the formation of a full Presidential Campaign Council towards APCs victory in the presidential elections. His spokesperson, Garba Shehu, said in a statement Wednesday that the president appreciates the growing interest that Nigerians have shown in this issue, and he is conscious of their keen expectation. However, President Buhari implores members of the party and the public to exercise some patience regarding the constitution of the PCC, Mr Shehu said. He also said that for now, the president and the party executives are focused on the APC convention scheduled for October 6. The Presidential Campaign Council will be put in place after the convention, he said. We are the party that will free Nigeria from corruption and poor governance. We are the party of change. We will not let the country down, Mr Buhari said. The campaign council is expected to be superior to and coordinate all the existing campaign organisations set up for the presidents reelection. Salma Anas-Kolo is a former Borno State commissioner for health between 2011 and 2015. She served as commissioner during Governor Kashim Shettimas first term, a time when Boko-Haram insurgency was at its peak. With tens of thousands of deaths from the insurgency and many residents suffering from physical and psychological trauma, Mrs Anas-Kolos used her office to establish rehabilitation centres that provided trauma management and psycho-social support as well as provide counselling for women and girls negatively affected by insurgency. What we did was that, immediately we set up for an emergency response team and the humanitarian desk within the ministry of health, the former commissioner who is also a public health expert told PREMIUM TIMES in a recent interview. Out of passion for community development, Mrs Anas -Kolo would later this year, declare to run for a Senate seat in Southern Borno. About a month ago, she picked up her expression of interest and declaration of interest form at the ruling All Progressives Party Congress (APC) Secretariat in Abuja. On Tuesday her name came up among four candidates cleared to battle for the ruling partys ticket for Borno South Senatorial seat. Others are Sanda Garba; Musa Balla and Ali Ndume,who currently occupies the seat. As a starter, Mrs Anas-Kolo picked a rather tough debut battle as she seeks to upstage Mr Ndume who has been in the political scene for more than a decade with a wealth of experience and influence. There are rumors that the APC is hatching underground moves to make Mr Ndume the sole candidate of the party in the contest. However, if she eventually beats the odds and emerges victorious in the party primaries scheduled Wednesday and subsequently the general elections, the former health commissioner will be the first female to represent Southern Borno in the Senate. Background Born on March 23, 1966, Mrs Anas -Kolos penchant for humanitarian and community development work is not far-fetched. Her father, Ibrahim Anas, is a retired police officer from Silumthla ward of Biu Local Government Area. He joined politics in 1977 after retirement. He served as chairman of Biu LGA and later became the deputy governor of Borno State from 1979 to 1983. He thereafter, served on the boards of several government agencies and parastatals, until his demise on the 8th of December 2008. Young Salma was raised in Maiduguri, where she completed her primary education at Shehu Garbai Primary School in 1978. Five years later, she acquired her O level certificate from Government Girls College Maidugri. She received a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) at the University of Maidugri in 1978. She later got married to her heartthrob, Hashim Muhammad Kolo, who retired from the Nigerian Air force with the rank of Air Commodore in 2013. They both had five kids. After several years of public service with an eye-catching CV, Mrs Anas-Kolo was appointed commissioner for health in Borno State between 2011 and 2015. Before then, the internationally renowned public health expert had worked at various levels and locations in Nigeria and around the world for the United Nations System, through such agencies as United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the World Health Organisation (WHO). Mrs Anas-Kolo most recently served as National Team Leader (Country Director) for the Nigeria Maternal Newborn and Child Health, a national programme supported by the government of the United Kingdom. She was also the Director/Head Special Projects & National Coordinator Health Sector Humanitarian Crisis Response of the Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria. Entering Politics Having acquired much knowledge, skills and field experience in community development, Mrs Anas-Kolo, like her father, decided to run for political office, due to the gap she saw between government and her people in Southern Borno. The first phase of her rough road to the Senate seat has already begun. She is pitched against three tough aspirants including Mr Ndume in the APC party primaries. Mr Ndume is a staunch Buharist in the Senate and a former majority leader. He has been in the National Assembly since 2003. The former health commissioner did not hesitate to voice the task ahead as a woman challenging Mr Ndume. I think he (Ndume) is my leader, there is no doubt about that. He is currently sitting on the chair and he has been there for 8 years. In the Senate, he is going to complete his eight years and he was also in the House of Reps for eight years so that makes it 16 years. I have a lot of respect for him and he has played his role but the space is large and we make changes for progress. So there is need for us to also move forward because when someone has been in a position for a long time and gained lots of experience, he should be able to move on. With all the experience I have gathered, I think Borno state is not where it should be. In fact we have gone almost 50 years backwards in terms of development. She said if given the opportunity, she would address three cardinal areas of development: education; girl child education; and the health sector. Like most women with political ambitions, Mrs Anas-Kolo complained about how the Nigerian party structure is skewed against women. At the party primary level, gender and money is used to marginalise women. The representation of women is very poor, in the political parties. If you take five delegate from each ward, its only one woman out of five. I need the men to support me. I am pleading with them to be fair, based on the lessons they have learned in the past. They should see me as a progressive individual that is trying to help her people. AWARDS: 2014 Rotary International Award for recognition as the best performing Commissioner of Health in efforts towards immunisation activities in hard to reach communities of conflicts in Borno State. 2013: Best Commissioner of the Year in the North East by the National Union of Journalist, Nigeria. 2013 Bill and Melinda Gates Award as Best performing State in the North East on Polio Eradication efforts (during the period I served as Commissioner of Health in Borno State). 2012: Borno State Ranked as the third in Nigeria by Hefron as making efforts towards improving Maternal Health in the Nigeria (period served as Commissioner of Health. 1997 Best graduant; National Postgraduate Medical College, Nigeria. 1997 Best graduant; of the Faculty of Public Health, National Postgraduate Medical College, Nigeria. 1989 Best Graduating student in Pediatrics, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. (This Project is powered by Centre for Development and Democracy (CDD) with support from Ford Foundation. The initiative explores the personal life, contribution to humanity, strength and political ambition of female politicians in Nigeria ahead of the 2019 general elections). A former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant who defected to the People Democratic Party (PDP), Muhammed Abba-Aji, has won his new partys ticket for Borno Central senatorial district. Mr. Abba-Aji was Wednesday declared winner of the senatorial primaries after polling 594 votes to beat his closest contender, Grema Terab, who scored 242 votes. Trailing the two was Bukar Kachalla, a former Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, who got only four (4) votes. Barring possible changes, Mr. Abba-Aji, who was a former senator (2003 to 2007) will face in the main election outgoing Borno State governor, Kashim Shettima, who is the senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the zone. Declaring the results of the senatorial primaries, the chairman of PDP electoral committee, Andy Aghadi, commended the contenders for their maturity and spirit of sportsmanship. Mr. Abba-Aji commended his closest rival, Mr. Terab for his uncommon maturity especially by instantly conceding defeat and stepping forward to congratulate him. I have thanked the good People of my constituency for the show of support and loyalty which they have amply demonstrated by the massive votes they have given me, he said in an interview. I also pay special appreciation to Mr. Grema Terrab, who despite his younger age, demonstrated a rare sense of maturity and sportsmanship, he said. Mr Terab, who has been a constant critic of the Borno state government, reacted to the outcome of the primaries on his Facebook page. He described his loss as another victory to the establishment. The establishment have won again, only the few conscious ones have identified with our struggle, he said As I said earlier we must not give in to hopelessness and mediocrity, remember age is on our side. Thank you all for your love and support. The Adamawa Police Command on Wednesday confirmed that one herdsman was missing and 16 cows rustled in Kademun village in Demsa Local Government Area of Adamawa. Othman Abubakar, the commands spokesman, confirmed the situation in Yola adding that the incident occurred on September 26. The Command has received a report from Demsa Police Divisional Headquarters that one Fulani cattle rearer got missing and 16 cows were rustled. The incident was suspected to have been carried out by cattle rustlers and the command is investigating the matter, Abubakar said. He said that some policemen who went to the area to douse the tension were attacked and injured by some miscreants. According to him, the police recovered four motorcycles from the miscreants. Reacting to the development, Malam Ali, the spokesperson of the herdsmen in Demsa, also confirmed the incident adding that it happened on September 26. He, however, alleged that 20 cows were rustled by persons suspected to be farmers. He said that shortly after the attack, the herdsmen reported the incident to Demsa Area Police Division for possible and early intervention. He said that the herdsmen also reported the case to the community leader, Alhamdu Teneke, seeking for his fatherly intervention. Mr Ali appealed to appropriate authorities to intervene and do justice to the suspected cattle rustlers. (NAN) Sani Abubakar, a former acting governor in Taraba, who clinched the APC governorship ticket in the Tuesday primary election, has urged other aspirants to support his bid to wrestle power from the PDP. Mr Abubakar made the appeal on Wednesday in Jalingo, while reacting to his victory. In every election, there must be a winner. The primary election was a family affair. Since a winner has emerged, we must all come together and work for victory, he said. He said that those he defeated were key stakeholders whose input was very vital to the success of the party in 2019. Mr Abubakar said that he paved the way for Governor Darius Ishakus success when he was acting governor in 2015, and promised to work toward a peaceful and prosperous Taraba, if elected to replace him. Meanwhile, Joel Ikenya, who came second in the primary election, has rejected the outcome of the primary election. Mr Ikenya told journalists in Jalingo on Wednesday that the election process was full of irregularities, and called for its cancellation. The APC headquarters should select people of integrity to conduct a fresh governorship primary election in Taraba, he said. Mr Ikenya suggested that a sitting governor should chair the electoral committee that would be sent to conduct a fresh primary election. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the eight other APC aspirants had rejected the outcome of the election when the result was declared on Tuesday, claiming that the entire process was hijacked. (NAN) Some All Progressives Congress members in Kaduna staged a protest over the exclusion of aspirants for the senatorial seat of Kaduna Central by the partys headquarters in Abuja. The protest extended into the late hours of Tuesday night. Party loyalists demanded the immediate upturning of the decision of the party to give only Shehu Sani, an incumbent senator, an automatic ticket thereby disqualifying other aspirants. Mr Sani, who is currently representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, was the only candidate cleared for the seat going by the list released by the APC national body on Tuesday. Immediately after the list was made public, protesters gathered at the party secretariat along Ali Akilu road protesting the exclusion of other candidates who had also purchased and submitted the expression of interest and nomination forms. They also barricaded the road. The road is a busy one and it is adjacent to the APC head office in Kaduna. It took me more than an hour to get past that road because of the protesters, Ibrahim Musa, a civil servant said. In a press briefing led by Aminu Jibo, the zonal chairman, APC Kaduna central senatorial district, at the partys secretariat, he condemned the choice of Mr Sani as the sole candidate of the party. In our view, it is undemocratic to prevent our party members from making a democratic choice from the vibrant list of aspirants who have put themselves forward. We are aware that five of our members purchased and submitted expression of interest and nomination forms to contest the senate primaries in our zone. It beggars belief that Shamsudeen Shehu Giwa, Uba Sani, Mohammed Sani Saleh and Usman Ibrahim were all not cleared. Only one of the five aspirants was cleared. This is a naked effort to foist a candidate on our zone, and we cannot accept this reckless act of impunity. How can Mohammed Sani Saleh, a retired general who until May 2015 was the APC Senator for the same Kaduna Central, suddenly be deemed unqualified to represent the same party? Uba Sani has been a loyal member of the APC, and served the Kaduna State Government as special adviser on political matters for almost four years. He was appointed senior special assistant to the president on public affairs in 2006. After such a distinguished record of public service at the federal and state levels, there is no basis for excluding him from democratic participation. Members of our zone view this action of unlawful exclusion as an affront to natural justice. It confirms what we previously dismissed as rumors to the effect that certain persons had been promised automatic tickets. The notion of automatic ticket contravenes the Constitution of the APC. In the weeks leading to the primaries, the leaders of the APC denied nurturing any such plans to subvert the partys constitution and reward the most flagrant acts of misconduct, indiscipline and disloyalty. Were we wrong to have believed their assurances? He said the group would not condone the injustice. As members of the APC, we cannot be expected to condone conduct that violates party spirit and wantonly breaches the right of loyal members. Therefore, we call on the APC national leadership to immediately reverse this act of injustice in the interest of our party, its reputation and integrity. If this unjust action is not promptly reversed, then loyal party members in Kaduna Central will have no option but to take appropriate action to protect the APC and its democratic credentials. The APC was founded to uphold the finest standards of lawful and democratic conduct, a fact that attracted the support of the millions of citizens that voted for our party in 2015. We will not accept the imposition of a candidate that abandoned our party, to all intents and purposes, shortly after he used our platform to get elected in 2015. Mr Sani has been having a running political battle with the state governor, Nasir El-Rufai, whom he has accused of maladministration. The senator also led a move by all the states senators to make the Senate block an attempt by the state government to secure a multi-million naira loan. The lawmaker, who many initially thought would decamp in the wave of massive defections from the APC early this year, recently had a meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari, where it is believed he may have been offered some incentives to stay back in the ruling party. The Kaduna High Court has restrained the ruling party, APC, from conducting the primary to select the partys candidate for the Kaduna Central Senatorial District. Ruling on an ex-parte motion in a suit filed by Uba Sani, a senatorial aspirant, the court on Wednesday ordered the APC, its chairman Adams Oshiomhole, the electoral commission, INEC, and incumbent senator, Shehu Sani, to maintain the status-quo prior to October 2, when the APC excluded Uba Sani and other aspirants from the contest in favour of one aspirant. Uba Sani like the inciumbetn senator had purchased the APC form to contest the senatorial seat. However, the APC National Working Committee only cleared Shehu Sani for the seat. In a motion brought pursuant to Order 15(1) and Order 36 of the High Court Civil Procedure Rules of Kaduna State, the court granted leave to issue and serve the writ of summons on the the defendants. The restraining order has been reportedly served on the APC at its national headquarters. Uba Sanis lawyer, Sule Shuaibu, explained that his client took this step to protect his democratic rights after exhausting the internal party grievance-redress processes. Upon becoming aware of his exclusion, Uba Sani wrote and submitted a letter of complaint to the national chairman, urging him to reverse the decision, the counsel said. He followed up with a letter to the Appeal Committee, stating clearly that having fulfilled all the conditions for contesting the primary election, his unlawful exclusion should be set aside and he be allowed to contest the primary election. The court adjourned the matter to October 15. A former governor of Kano State and presidential aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has denied reports that Abba Kabiru Yusuf, the gubernatorial candidate of his party in the state is his son-in-law. Mr Kwankwaso who spoke exclusively to PREMIUM TIMES in an interview said Mr Yusuf is married to a member of his extended family but however not his daughter. He recently endorsed Mr Yusuf as his choice for the 2019 governorship seat, an action that irked some of his followers. Mr Yusuf, after the primaries that was held at the residence of Mr Kwankwaso in Kano, was declared the winner. The commissioner is married to a member of my extended family, not my daughter and he was a commissioner, Mr Kwankwaso said. He added that Mr Yusuf was the brain behind the success of his administration, hence the choice of his candidature. Anything good in Kano was done under him, you can see flyovers, street lights, underpasses, universities, every school, all of them under him, he said. Apart from Mr Kwankwaso, other major PDP presidential aspirants include the former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, Governors Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto and Ibrahim Dankwambo of Gombe, and ex-governors Sule Lamido and Attahiru Bafarawa. Mr Kwankwasos experience as a former governor of the most populous state in Northern Nigeria is expected to be his major selling point. He often claims credit for helping Mr Buhari secure 1.9 million votes in the state in 2015. Although the president had always been popular in Kano where he enjoys massive support, he never got that many votes in the state until 2015. Mr Kwankwaso also helped Umar Ganduje, then his deputy while he was governor, to power in the 2015 elections. Both men have since fallen out with Mr Ganduje vowing to ensure President Buhari wins Kano overwhelmingly in 2019. Mr Kwankwaso, who served as defence minister, was elected Kano governor on the platform of the PDP, but joined then-newly-formed APC in 2013 as part of the renegade newPDP bloc. He is one of the most influential politicians to defect from the APC since Mr Abubakar left the party last November. Perhaps in recognition of his popularity, President Buhari held a meeting with Mr Kwankwaso a day before senator defected to the PDP, in a last minute attempt to persuade him to remain in the ruling party. If Mr Kwankwaso secures the PDP ticket, that meeting with the president could turn the last both men would hold as political allies. The Police Command in Kaduna State has warned that it would deal with promoters of hate speech as the 2019 general election approaches. The commands Public Relations Officer, Yakubu Sabo, gave the warning in a statement in Kaduna on Wednesday. Mr Sabo said the warning become necessary considering the ongoing party primaries in the state. He quoted the State Police Commissioner, Ahmad Abdu-Rahman, as warning the general public to desist from doing any act that is capable of causing violence or disrupting public peace in the state. All must note that, hate speech is not allowed at all. Anybody who violates the law in this regard will be apprehended by the police and the heavy burden of law will be brought to bear on him. Mr Sabo further warned that on no account should any person or group of persons take law into their hands or say anything that would cause breach of public peace or disrupt public order. The command wishes to appeal to all political stakeholders to advise their followers to maintain peace, he said. He also called on members of the public to go about their lawful activities and report promptly any suspicious person or group of persons that are hell bent at causing trouble. Mr Sabo gave the police commissioners assurance that adequate security measures have been put in place to ensure protection of lives and property of all law-abiding residents of the state. (NAN) Violence has erupted in the ongoing senatorial primaries of the All Progressives Congress in Hadejia Local Government Area of Jigawa State. Police used tear gas to disperse the delegates and party leaders and calm the situation. The primary for the Jigawa North-east senatorial seat, is taking place at Hadejia township stadium. The violence broke out as a result of complaints by some participants that the delegates list was being manipulated. The Jigawa State Deputy Governor, Ibrahim Hassan, is among those seeking the senatorial ticket. Others are Ahmad Garba, Deputy Speaker of the Jigawa State House of Assembly, and Mohammed Husseini. Mr Husseini had earlier announced his withdrawal from the race at a press conference. He alleged smuggling of wrong delegates to participate in the election. At at the time of this report, the deputy governor and Mr Garba were having a closed door meeting with the security personnel who had sealed the venue of the primary. A new political party, the Socialist Party of Nigeria (SPN), has elected Hassan Soweto as its candidate to represent Ifo 2 constituency in the Ogun State House of Assembly. This took place at the partys primary election on September 29 which held at TOF Hotel, Ikare Bus stop, Oke-Aro, Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State. The primary elections was attended by enthusiastic party members from different wards of the constituency as well as party leaders from Ogun State, Lagos State and the national headquarters. This includes the partys national secretary, Chinedu Bosah, Adeola Soetan (NEC member, Ogun state), Eko Nicholas (Chairperson, SPN Ogun state), Afolayan Sunday (Treasurer, SPN Ogun state), Rufus Olusesan (Chairperson, SPN Lagos State), Ronke Adebayo (Treasurer, SPN Lagos State) and Shoyombo (Publicity Secretary, SPN Lagos State). Mr Soweto is a socialist and also a labour and youth activist. He is the national coordinator of the Education Rights Campaign (ERC). Through the ERC, he has led major campaigns across the length and breadth of the country to defend the rights to better funded, well-equipped and democratically-managed public education system. He has also been a consistent advocate and a vocal voice for the recognition of the rights of workers, women, youth and the downtrodden. Ifo 2 constituency comprises some of the least-developed communities in Ogun State including Alagbole, Agbado, Ope-Ilu, Adiyan, Giwa/Oke-Aro, Matogbun, Maidan, Legun, Olambe and Akute just to mention a few. While presenting the partys flag to the candidate, Adeola Soetan, the SPN NEC member representing Ogun State, described the terrible condition of roads in the constituency as something below the standard of public infrastructure in war-thorn countries. Even in Afghanistan or Somalia, roads there are not this terrible. It makes me want to ask whether you have any government in Ogun State. I think the state of your roads is the more reason why you need to vote in someone who can represent you effectively at the Assembly to draw in development. In his acceptance speech, Mr Soweto blamed the lack of development in the constituency on decades of neglect by successive governments in Ogun State and the ineffective and self-serving representation by the current lawmaker representing the constituency in the Assembly. The terrible state of our roads, the poor state of public education and healthcare and the absolute lack of jobs and economic opportunities in the constituency is a direct result of the conspiracy of the Ogun State government with the active connivance of the Honourable member representing Ifo 2 to keep our people in misery. The raining season is here and you can see how our people wallow in mud to go about their daily activities. When dry season comes, people and children fall sick regularly because of the enormous dust that envelopes you when you walk or drive over the untarred roads. Unfortunately neither the governor nor honourable Ganiyu Oyediji cares. Just look around to see how many uncompleted projects litter the community. In addition, the terrible state of roads and public infrastructure has constituted a danger to our people and particularly the children. Just few weeks ago, exactly on Sunday 16 September 2018, a 14-year-old girl, Damilola Adegboye was swept into an open canal from which she has not been found up till now. Going further, he said My campaign is about the issues of lack of development, jobs and economic opportunities for our communities. It is about getting justice for Damilola Adegboye and preventing another child from suffering the same fate. As an activist and advocate, I intend to use the enormous powers and influence I shall possess as an honorable member to fight vigorously for the rights of our communities to even and harmonious development. We shall not take no for an answer because we know the resources to tar our roads, build public schools, pay teachers and build public health care centres are there. They are only being stolen by the state government in connivance with contractors and crooks of various shades. While effectively utilizing all the enormous value of legislation to advance the interest of our people, I shall not stick to legislative routine. Where debate fails on the floor of the Assembly with respect to the rights of my people, I shall not give in but march on the streets with my constituents until their rights to live as human beings are respected. Mr Soweto who said he believed that political office ought to be about service and not self-enrichment pledged that as an honorable member, he would live a frugal life not different from that of the majority of his constituency. I shall declare my assets annually and I shall be accountable to my party and constituency. I will continue to live in my rented one-bedroom apartment in the community, I shall not accept more than the average wage of a civil servant. The excess of my salary will be donated to the party to utilise in assisting the struggles of workers, youth, the poor and our communities. Mr Soweto also assured that his service will not just be to Ifo 2 but all the workers, students, youth and downtrodden in Ogun State. I regard the entirety of the long-suffering workers, students, youth and the downtrodden in Ogun state as my natural constituency. The workers in this state have suffered so many indignities and anti-worker attacks for far too long. The public education sector in the state are in comatose while policies of the state with respect to public higher institutions are anti-poor, disruptive and ill-thought. Ogun State public higher institutions charge some of the highest school fees in the country. All these would be resisted once I emerge next year. The workers, students and downtrodden in Ogun State can be rest assured that with me in that Assembly, not a single anti-poor policy will go through without a stout resistance from me. I shall work with all unions to defend the interests of their members by both using legislation as well as building massive campaigns to fight for free education, reversal of hiked fees, reversal of all politically-motivated sack and expulsion of workers and students leaders, payment of owed salaries and allowances to workers, payment of minimum wage and respect of labour laws by employers and the democratic rights of our people etc. I shall also stand for the interests of Small and Medium scale Enterprises, shop-owners, traders, transporters, informal clusters and farmers against exploitative taxation and other policies that impedes their businesses. I shall fight vigorously for a progressive taxation that puts the heavier burden on rich corporations while giving breathing space for small traders, enterprises and farmers to thrive in addition to regular government support and assistance. I shall equally be a voice for women, youth, minorities and the environment. The All Progressives Congress senatorial aspirants in Ondo State have asked the National Working Committee of the party under the leadership of Adams Oshiomhole to reverse its decision to disqualify them from contesting the primaries within 24hours. The aspirants, who addressed journalists in Akure on Wednesday, were led by a serving senator representing Ondo Central, Tayo Alasoadura. They include human rights lawyer, Tunji Abayomi; former Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Victor Olabintan; and Lucky Ayedatiwa. In his address, Mr Alasoadura said, Mr Adams Oshiomhole, the National Chairman of the party, is given 24 hours to reverse this wrongful decision. The party had disqualified the aspirants to pave the way for the serving senators to contest the primaries unopposed in the concluded primaries of Tuesday. The Ondo State chapter of the party had earlier rejected the decision, saying it was an attempt to destabilise the party in the state. According to Mr Alasoadura the decision of the NWC is not only false but also a very shameful act considering the fact that NWC never sat to decide on an issue as important as the primaries in the state. It has also, disquietingly so, portrayed our party as a political platform whose leadership abhors regard for due process and truth, the senator said. He noted that although he had been cleared for the ticket of Ondo Central and was unopposed, the action to deny other aspirants their rights to contest the primaries was an injustice he would need to fight as a leader. More disturbing is the increasingly audacious impunity associated with the leadership of the party under Mr Adams Oshiomhole, he said. There has been a high level of inconsistent standards applied across states of the federation. There have been direct and embarrassing violation of both the constitution of Nigeria and that of the APC. We also observed manifest unjust and unjustified preferential treatment of certain categories of aspirants and political tendencies, among others. The most violent, wrongful and unconstitutional violation is the purported act of denying the right of the people to elect their representatives. We, the aspirants of APC on Ondo State, not excluding me, purportedly cleared to contest, hereby reject, unequivocally, the so-called decision of the NWC on this issue. Mr Alasoadura further stated that the NWC must adduce reasons for the dictatorial act which he said was capable of breaking the fragile peace existing in the party. We use this medium to put the National Executive Committee, NEC, on notice that the candidates of the party in Ondo State, purportedly screened out without due regard to the extant laws, intend to uphold the tradition for which our dear state is reputed, the senator said. We will never accept the emergence of any candidate unless through lawful means. Equal opportunities must be extended to all aspirants in the race, from whom the party has collected the prescribed fees. The act of collecting billions of naira from party members desirous of contesting on the platform of the party only to be unconstitutionally screened out is tantamount to a scam and detrimental to the image of the party. Mr Abayomi, in his remarks, said Mr Oshiomhole lacked the capacity to lead the party and so should resign. He has been given 24 hours, if he fails to do the right thing, we will do the right thing, Mr Abayomi said. Asked what he would do if the NWC failed to reverse its decision, he said the aspirants would make further decisions at the expiration of the ultimatum. Be cautious Yekini Nabena, the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, while reacting to the allegations by aspirants said the aggrieved aspirants should have come to the partys secretariat in Abuja to know why they were disqualified. If they found out that they have been disqualified, instead of protesting, why dont they come to the party secretariat to find out why they were disqualified, said Mr Nabena. Some of the aspirants presented their degree certificates and did not attach their NYSC certificates. It is not about making press statement or protesting, let them come to the party secretariat to know why they were disqualified. If somebody arrest you wont you go to the police station to know why he was arrested? When aspirants start behaving as if they dont want to be cultured, some of them, if we publish what they put in their files they will feel sorry for themselves. Some of them have degrees but no NYSC; some of them have their names as A in one university and B in another university and you are the saying the party is not qualified to do what it is doing. They should be cautious. The All Progressives Congress (APC} has conducted parallel primaries to elect the governorship candidate of the party. The faction of the loyalists of Governor Ibikunle Amosun conducted its primaries Tuesday and released the results on Wednesday. On Wednesday, the rival faction conducted its own and was still collating the results at press time, with Dapo Abiodun taking early lead. The faction plans to announce the results by Thursday morning. Chairman of the party, Derin Adebiyi, at a press conference at the party secretariat in Abeokuta, announced that the anointed candidate of the governor, Adekunle Akinlade, won the primaries with 190, 987 votes. Mr Adebiyi told journalists that Jimi Lawal followed with 5,046 votes,Dapo Abiodun scored 3,648, Bimbo Ashiru, 898; Adegbenga Kaka, 833 and Abayomi Hunye last with 208 votes. The party chairman while responding to questions on why the result was not announced by the Muhammad Ndabawa-led gubernatorial committee sent to the state by the national headquarters, alleged that the committee was compromised. He added that the committee stated emphatically on Monday that the election would hold on Tuesday but went incommunicado, despite giving assurances early in the morning. Mr Adebiyi said it was on the strength of the assurances that party members were mobilised to their various wards ,while public schools were shut by the government. He said, surprisingly however, the committee allegedly switched off their phones while electoral materials were not made available. Mr Adebiyi said a disagreement ensued when the committee insisted on using ballot papers for the direct primary, which he noted was against the guidelines of the National Working Committee of the party. He said in view of the constitutional provision, which allows the local committees to conduct elections, the state chapter went ahead under the supervision of officials of Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and security operatives. The committee was here and they were emphatic, after cancelling the exercise twice, the election would hold yesterday, this is after weve submitted names of local committee and venues in obedience to the guidelines, he said. Yesterday morning, they still agreed that the primary would hold and we mobilise d to our different wards but we waited endlessly as the phone numbers or committee members were switched off and electoral materials were not available, Mr Adebiyi added. Up till now, we dont know the whereabouts of the committee and weve not seen them at the partys secretariat. Theyve been heavily and highly compromised. The guideline is straight and unambiguous, itis open secret ballot which is Option A4 but they said they brought ballot papers from Abuja, in a direct primary? To do what? The chairman said the party has kept the video recordings of all voting activities, adding that the result sheets were signed by INEC official and security operatives. On Tuesday, the Secretary to the State Government, Taiwo Adeoluwa, in a television broadcast accused the national chairman of the party, Adams Oshiomhole, of desperation to return a particular candidate against the wish of party members. However, Mr Adeoluwa who spoke on behalf of the state government did not name the particular candidate. He appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to call Mr Oshiomhole to order. The Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, has won the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for Oyo South Senatorial District in the primary election conducted on Wednesday. According to the Ademola Seriki-led electoral panel, Mr. Ajimobi defeated Fola Akinosun by 2,659 to 168 votes, to seek a return to the Senate. Mr Ajimobi represented the senatorial district between 2003 and 2007. According to Mr. Seriki, the exercise, which started at about 6:30 p.m., was delayed due the late arrival of voting materials from the national headquarters of the party in Abuja. PREMIUM TIMES gathered that Mr. Akinosun left the venue before the final collation of the results from the nine local government areas for undisclosed reasons. Meanwhile, while addressing journalists after being declared the winner, Mr. Ajimobi applauded the electoral committee for the conduct of the exercise, despite the earlier delay. I wish to bring to fore my parliamentary experience to grow a Nigeria that the next generation will be proud of. I look forward to going back to the Red Chamber to contribute my quota to the national debate and the progress of the nation, Mr. Ajimobi added. The people of Oyo South Senatorial district should expect greater performance from me at the Senate, which will even surpass my unprecedented achievements as governor by the grace of God. When asked about the reaction of his opponent, he said; As you have all witnessed, the election was free, fair and transparent. I was even happy that my younger brother, Dr. Fola Akinosun, could score as high as 168 votes. I think he tried. And you can see that it was transparent and I am happy about it. While addressing delegates after announcing the results, Mr. Seriki described the exercise as another successful primary that the committee had conducted. You heard what happened in some states that conducted the same exercise. Some were not as successful as Oyo State and I give the credit to the aspirants and the entire members of this great party for making this exercise worthwhile, he said. I salute the calmness and maturity of the aspirants that have so far participated in the primaries, from Sundays governorship primary and todays Senate primary. We look forward to further cooperation of all stakeholders in the remaining primaries. For the New World Order, a world government is just the beginning. Once in place they can engage their plan to exterminate 80% of the world's population, while enabling the "elites" to live forever with the aid of advanced technology. For the first time, crusading filmmaker ALEX JONES reveals their secret plan for humanity's extermination: Operation ENDGAME. Jones chronicles the history of the global elite's bloody rise to power and reveals how they have funded dictators and financed the bloodiest warscreating order out of chaos to pave the way for the first true world empire. Watch as Jones and his team track the elusive Bilderberg Group to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III. to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III. Learn about the formation of the North America transportation control grid, which will end U.S. sovereignty forever. Discover how the practitioners of the pseudo-science eugenics have taken control of governments worldwide as a means to carry out depopulation. View the progress of the coming collapse of the United States and the formation of the North American Union. Never before has a documentary assembled all the pieces of the globalists' dark agenda. Endgame's compelling look at past atrocities committed by those attempting to steer the future delivers information that the controlling media has meticulously censored for over 60 years. It fully reveals the elite's program to dominate the earth and carry out the wicked plan in all of human history. Endgame is not conspiracy theory, it is documented fact in the elite's own words. NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Meet Suzanna, a thirteen-year-old Jewish girl from western Poland who escaped the Nazi tyranny with her seventeen-year-old brother and their mother, only to be deported to a Soviet forced-labor camp. The family's unexpected odyssey covered six thousand miles, from western Poland to Persia via Central Asia. Arriving in Tehran as refugees with no home, no money, no belongingsand with their family dispersed across the worldSuzanna and her mother found generosity and hope. Thanks to a new foundation launched by Suzanna's family, the story is now told by award-winning writer Kim Dana Kupperman in her new historical novel, Six Thousand Miles to Home: A Novel Inspired by a True Story of World War II (Legacy Edition Books; Oct. 15, 2018). Published by Legacy Edition Books, a project of The Suzanna Cohen Legacy Foundation (www.suzannacohenlegacyfoundation.org), proceeds from sales of the book shall support the organization's timely missionto collect, preserve, publish, and teach the life stories of men and women who marshaled exemplary resilience in the face of forced displacement and to honor the bravery and generosity of those who provided compassion and assistance to refugees, exiles, and persecuted peoples. "The tragedy of her life was caused by her identity," says one of Suzanna's grandsons, "but it was her identity that proved to be her salvation." Inspired by the real-life story of a Jewish family from western Poland, this book recounts an amazing saga in which hope and resilience persist in the face of uncertainty, deportation, and cruelty wrought by the Germans and Soviets in the territory that historian Timothy Snyder has named "The Bloodlands." "I have tried to render real people, most of them lost now, by imagining them in particular historical and social landscapes," says Kupperman (www.kimdanakupperman.com), a critically acclaimed writer and founding editor of Welcome Table Press. "Specifically, I have focused on how the women and men in this story might have thought about and responded to the urgencies that unfolded in real time during their lives. The full impact of the Shoah cannot be fully known because so many people's stories have been lost. Many of them will never be told, but some are still available, waiting to be inscribed. It has been a singular blessing to be involved in recording this one." SOURCE Kim Kupperman Related Links http://www.kimdanakupperman.com The study, A Unified Post-Acute Care Reimbursement Model, Paying for Outcomes vs. Setting, Based on Acuity, was initially presented to a group of rehabilitation hospitals at last week's 2018 American Medical Rehabilitation Providers Association Educational Conference and Expo in Boston by George Kyriacou, MSPH, President and CEO of Gaylord Hospital in Wallingford, CT. The research for the study was based on 2016 data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS). "Post-acute care plays a significant role in our health care system," Kyriacou explained. "In 2016, approximately 43% of Medicare beneficiaries who were discharged from an acute-care hospital went on to receive post-acute care from skilled nursing facilities, home health agencies, inpatient rehab facilities or long-term care hospitals." "But when we analyze the range of patient acuity - or the rating that is given to each patient based on the severity of their illness with a rating of "1" being the least ill and "4" being the most severely ill - found in each post-acute care setting, it is clear that long-term care hospitals disproportionately shoulder the care of the largest population of the highest severity of illness compared to any other post-acute care setting." "On average, 57.1% of all patients in a long-term acute care hospital in 2016 were considered by Medicare to be of the highest acuity," he continued. "In comparison, only 15.8% of the nation's skilled nursing facilities' patient population was comprised of patients of the highest acuity." The data indicates that although long-term care hospitals care for an overall sicker population, such institutions provide significantly better outcomes for patients of the highest acuity with: Up to 15.4% fewer hospital readmissions Up to 30.6% longer time to readmission Up to 31.7% lower outpatient emergency room utilization rates than patients of the same severity of illness recovering in other post-acute settings. "The Medicare data demonstrates what LTCHs have known all along: our nation's sickest patients achieve significantly better outcomes in long-term care hospitals than in any other post-acute care setting." The data and conclusions outlined in the study come in stark opposition to the conclusion of a National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) working paper, Long-Term Care Hospitals, a Case Study in Waste released in August, 2018. "Our findings do not align with the results of the NBER study which suggests that Medicare could realize $4.6 billion per year in savings with no harm done to patients by not allowing for discharge to LTCHs," he continued. "Clearly based on our research, LTCHs are important to a healthier, safer health care system and are an important resource for our nation's sickest patients." "I, along with many of our Nation's not-for-profit long-term care hospitals, hope that this research clearly demonstrates that patients of different acuity levels should be channeled to different settings in order to achieve the best outcomes at the very best cost," he concluded. About Gaylord Hospital: Gaylord Hospital, headquartered in Wallingford, Connecticut, is a not-for profit, long-term 137-bed specialty hospital that provides care and treatment of people with complex medical and intensive rehabilitation issues. Gaylord also operates outpatient therapy centers in Wallingford, North Haven, and Cheshire. For latest news or more information go to their website at www.gaylord.org. SOURCE Gaylord Specialty Healthcare Related Links https://www.gaylord.org LONDON, Oct. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) are one of the most popular classes of targeted therapeutic agents and have captured the attention of both large and small pharmaceutical companies, and academic / research institutions across the world. Fundamentally, these complex biotherapeutic entities represent the combination of the target specificity of an antibody and the cytotoxic potential of a chemotherapy drug; such conjugates are believed to be more efficient and effective in specifically identifying and eliminating cells / pathogens that are associated with disease(s). Since the approval of first ADC (MYLOTARG) in 2000 and its subsequent withdrawal in the year 2010, the ADC market has evolved considerably. Presently, there are four approved ADCs in the market: BESPONSA (2017), MYLOTARG (2017, reapproval), KADCYLA (2013) and ADCETRIS (2011). In fact, in the last 4-5 years, the market has witnessed an increasing interest from drug developers and healthcare investors alike. This is justified by the fact that currently there are close to 200 unique ADC product candidates in the clinical / preclinical phase of development. Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/3290025 Owing to the fact that these novel conjugates are highly potent toxic molecules, their manufacturing requires elaborate technical capabilities, along with the required expertise and manufacturing acumen related to both biologics and highly potent chemical substances. Specifically, the development of an antibody requires experience in protein engineering, cell line development, bioprocess development and related scale-up techniques. The production of the cytotoxic payloads that are used in ADCs requires specialized manufacturing facilities and equipment, highly contained production environments and experts in advanced synthetic chemistry and purification techniques. In addition, ADC developers require access to state-of-art linker technologies and must possess the ability to carry out the bioconjugation of the antibody to the cytotoxic drug. Due to the aforementioned challenges, stakeholders generally don't opt for manufacturing ADCs in-house. In fact, some of the leading players in this domain are dependent on contract manufacturers for the supply of one or more components of their ADC product candidates. Although some big pharma companies carry out in-house manufacturing of their ADC products, the trend of outsourcing such operations is likely to flourish in the coming years. This trend is expected to be driven by the several small companies and start-ups that are presently involved in development of ADCs. The "ADC Contract Manufacturing Market (3rd edition), 2018-2030" report offers a comprehensive study of the current scenario and future potential of the contract manufacturing market for ADCs. The study features an in-depth analysis, highlighting the capabilities of contract services providers engaged in this domain. In addition to other elements, the study includes: - An overview of the current status of the market with respect to the players involved in the manufacturing of ADCs. It features information on headquarters, size of the company, the types of services offered (antibody manufacturing / HPAPI or cytotoxic manufacturing / linker manufacturing / conjugation / fill-finish), location of manufacturing facilities, year of establishment of company / organization, scale of operations, and additional development services offered for ADCs (proof-of-concept studies / process development and scale-up / anaytical development). - Elaborate profiles of the contract service providers that are either one-stop-shops (offering services from antibody manufacturing to fill/ finish operations) or offer conjugation services at the commercial scale. Each profile provides a brief overview of the company, its financial information, details on ADC manufacturing capabilities, location of facilities, recent developments, and a comprehensive future outlook. - A comparative analysis of the key contract manufacturers based onvarious parameters, including company size, year of establishment, number of ADC manufacturing services offered, annual revenues, scale of operation, number of ADC development services offered and number of facilities for conjugation services. - An analysis of the recent investments (since 2012) made in this domain, the proceeds of which were intended to be used for the expansion or establishment of new facilities dedicated to offering ADC related services. - An analysis of the recent collaborations (since 2012) focused on manufacturing of ADCs on the basis of year in which the agreement was signed, type of agreement, key players and the geographical distribution of this activity. - An estimate of the overall ADC manufacturing / bioconjugation capacity (in grams / batch) of contract service providers based on information provided on their respective websites (wherever available) and additional data collated via secondary and primary research. The analysis highlights the distribution of global capacity by size of the company / organization (small-sized, mid-sized and large-sized) and geography (North America, Europe and Asia Pacific). - An overview of the ADCs that are already approved and those that are under development (clinical and preclinical), featuring information related to their current phase of development (wherever applicable), key target indications, developer company / organization, affiliated technology provider(s) and the type(s) of cytotoxin(s) and linker(s) used. - A review of the evolution of ADC conjugation technologies, highlighting the various types pf approaches that have been adopted in the past, and the different generations of linkers. It also highlights the competition between contemporary technology platforms. - A comprehensive geographical clinical trial analysis of completed, ongoing and planned studies of various ADCs (approved / under development). It provides details related to the different types of payloads and linkers investigated / being investigated across various geographies, based on the number of trials registered, current trial status, phase of development, number of patients enrolled and duration of the (recently initiated) trials (2015 onwards). - An informed estimate of the annual demand for ADC products (in grams), taking into account commercial, as well as clinical scale requirements, based on parameters such as target patient population, dosing frequency and dose strength of approved products and clinical stage candidates. - A discussion on affiliated trends, key drivers and challenges, under a SWOT framework, featuring a Harvey ball analysis, highlighting the relative impact of each SWOT parameter on the overall ADC contract manufacturing market. One of the key objectives of this report was to evaluate the current opportunity and the future potential of the ADC contract manufacturing market over the coming decade. We have provided an informed estimate of the likely evolution of the market in the short to mid-term and long term, for the period 2018-2030. In addition, we have provided the likely distribution of the market based on scale of operation (commercial, phase III, phase II and phase I), component / process type (antibody manufacturing, HPAPI / cytotoxic production, conjugation / linker and fill / finish), target indications (solid tumors and hematological malignancies), type of payload used (auristatin, calicheamicin (ozogamicin), duocarmycin, DXd (exatecan derivative), maytansinoid, pyrrolobenzodiazepines (talirine, tesirine) and others), type of linker used (succinimidyl 4-(n-maleimidomethyl) cyclohexane-1-carboxylate, valine-citrulline, hydrazone, valine-alanine, n-succinimidyl-4-(2-pyridyldithio) butanoate and others) and geography (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and rest of the world). The research, analysis and insights presented in this report are backed by a deep understanding of key insights gathered from both secondary and primary research. Our opinions and insights presented in this study were influenced by discussions conducted with several key players in this domain. The report features detailed transcripts of interviews held with following stakeholders: - Aldo Braca (Chief Executive Officer, BSP Pharmaceuticals) and Giorgio Salciarini (Technical Business Development Manager, BSP Pharmaceuticals) - Anthony DeBoer (Director, Business Development, Synaffix) - Christian Bailly (Director of CDMO, Pierre Fabre) - Christian Rohlff (Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Oxford BioTherapeutics) - Jennifer L. Mitcham (Director, Business Development, Catalent Pharma Solutions) and Stacy McDonald (Group Product Manager, Catalent Pharma Solutions) - John Burt (Chief Executive Officer, Abzena) - Laurent Ducry (Head of Bioconjugates Commercial Development, Lonza) - Mark Wright (Site Head, Piramal Healthcare) - Sasha Koniev (Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder, Syndivia) - Anonymous (Director, Business Development, Leading CMO) - Anonymous (Chief Executive Officer, Leading CMO) All actual figures have been sourced and analyzed from publicly available information forums and primary research discussions. Financial figures mentioned in this report are in USD, unless otherwise specified. Example Highlights 1 - The market landscape of ADC contract manufacturers is relatively niche with a limited number of companies presently offering contract services for manufacturing / conjugation of ADC products. Of the total number of stakeholders, close to 15 players claim to be one-stop-shops, providing end-to-end services for all the steps of ADC manufacturing (antibody manufacturing to fill / finish). Examples of such players include (in alphabetical order, no specific selection criteria) Abzena, Cambrex, Catalent Pharma Solutions, Goodwin Biotechnology and MabPlex. 2 - Over 80% of ADC contract manufacturers are based in either North America or Europe with facilities dedicated to ADC manufacturing / conjugation located in one or multiple regions. Around 50% of the CMOs are large companies with more than 500 employees; examples of such players include (in alphabetical order, no specific selection criteria) Novasep, Pierre Fabre, and WuXi Biologics. 3 - Contract manufacturers have made significant investments in expanding their respective capabilities and working capacities in order to address the growing demand for such services. Certain companies have also established new facilities dedicated to bioconjugation and / or manufacturing of highly potent / cytotoxic compounds. Over 60 of such developments were reported during the period 2012-H1 2018; of these, 65% of the instances were facility expansion project (focused on increasing facility area, and adding new manufacturing instruments and fill / finish lines). 4 - Close to 80 ADCs are currently in the clinical stages of development. These candidates have been / are being evaluated in more than 400 clinical studies, with over 70,000 patients across the globe. A significant proportion of the current demand for ADC manufacturing (both in-house and outsourced) services is also driven by the four commercially available products. Our estimates (based on parameters, such as target patient population and treatment regimen) suggest that the annual demand for ADCs (in grams) is likely to increase as more late-stage product candidates (phase II and above) receive regulatory approval over the coming decade. Currently, products being evaluated in clinical trials are estimated to contribute around 35% of the annual demand. Our projections indicate that, by 2030, commercialized products are likely to contribute to 90% of the demand for ADC manufacturing services. 5 - With a limited number of players offering conjugation / ADC manufacturing services at the commercial scale, the combined global installed capacity available for manufacturing ADCs is estimated to be around 20-30 kgs. It is worth mentioning that a major share (over 90%) of the capacity is installed in facilities of mid-large CMOs, such as BSP Pharmaceuticals, Lonza, Merck / SAFC and Piramal Pharma Solutions. Around 55% of the global ADC manufacturing capacity is installed in facilities based in Europe. This is attributed to the large number of bioconjugation facilities that are presently situated in this region. 6 - Driven by the rapidly evolving pipeline of ADC therapeutics and owing to the complex manufacturing requirements of such products, the trend of outsourcing is likely to persist in the foreseen future. Overall, we expect the market to grow at an annualized rate of around 11.9% during the period 2018-2030. Contract manufacturing services for antibodies (for use in ADC production) (~40%) is currently responsible for generating the major share of revenues in this market, followed by conjugation and HPAPI manufacturing. 7 - In terms of payload types, the demand for services related to manufacturing auristatin and maytansinoid based ADC therapeutics is high and estimated to contribute significantly (~75%) to the market's revenues. However, the share of PBD based products is expected to grow at a relatively higher annualized rate of over 30% during the forecast period. Research Methodology The data presented in this report has been gathered via secondary and primary research. For all our projects, we conduct interviews with experts in the area (academia, industry, medical practice and other associations) to solicit their opinions on emerging trends in the market. This is primarily useful for us to draw out our own opinion on how the market may evolve across different regions and technology segments. Wherever possible, the available data has been checked for accuracy from multiple sources of information. The secondary sources of information include: Annual reports Investor presentations SEC filings Industry databases News releases from company websites Government policy documents Industry analysts' views While the focus has been on forecasting the market over the period 2018-2030, the report also provides our independent view on various technological and non-commercial trends emerging in the industry. This opinion is solely based on our knowledge, research and understanding of the relevant market gathered from various secondary and primary sources of information. Chapter Outlines Chapter 2 provides an executive summary of the insights captured during our research. It offers a high level view on the likely evolution of the ADC contract manufacturing marketin the mid to long term. Chapter 3 is a general introduction to ADCs and the manufacturing requirements of such therapeutic products. It includes a detailed discussion on the structure of an ADC and its various components, manufacturing steps and associated challenges. The chapter also provides an overview of the growing trend of contract manufacturing, along with the challenges associated with supply chain and the growing demand for one-stop-shops. Further, it features a discussion on the various parameters that a sponsor company needs to consider while selecting a contract manufacturing partner. Chapter 4 provides a comprehensive overview of contract manufacturers that are actively involved in the production or conjugation of ADCs. The chapter features information on headquarters, size of the company, types of services offered (antibody manufacturing / HPAPI or cytotoxic manufacturing / linker manufacturing / conjugation / fill-finish), location of manufacturing facilities, year of establishment of company / organization, scale of operation, and additional development services offered for ADCs (proof-of-concept studies / process development and scale-up / analytical development). The chapter also includes a list of various contract manufacturers offering antibody production services along with the information on the location of their headquarters. Further, it provides a list of HPAPI / cytotoxic drug manufacturers along with the information on location of facilities dedicated to the manufacturing of such components. Chapter 5 features profiles of contract service providers that are either one-stop-shops (offering services from antibody manufacturing to fill/ finish operations) or offer conjugation services at the commercial scale. Each profile provides a brief overview of the company, its financial information, details on ADC manufacturing capabilities, location of facilities, recent developments, and a comprehensive future outlook. Chapter 6 features a detailed comparative analysis of the ADC contract manufacturers. The companies were compared on the basis of various parameters including company size, year of establishment, number of ADC manufacturing services offered, annual revenues, scale of operation, number of ADC development services offered and number of facilities for conjugation services. The results of this analysis were used to highlight the features of the most competent companies working in this domain. Chapter 7 highlightstheinvestments made by CMOs to expand or set up new facilities in order to support their ongoing operations. For each such instance, we have provided information on month / year of the development, type of development, amount invested (if available), focus area (manufacturing, analytical / development and fill / finish), scale of operation (preclinical, clinical and commercial) and location of the facility in which the investment was made. Chapter 8 features an elaborate discussion and analysis of the various collaborations and partnerships that have been inked between different players in this market. We have also discussed the different partnership models (including research agreements, manufacturing agreements, technology licensing agreements, product development agreements and acquisitions / mergers) and the most common forms of deals / agreements that have been established between 2012-H1 2018. It consists of a schematic representation showcasing the players that have established the maximum number of alliances related to the manufacturing of ADCs. Furthermore, we have provided a world map representation of the deals inked in this field, highlighting those that have been established within and across different continents. Chapter 9 features a comprehensive analysis of the overall installed manufacturing / bioconjugation capacity of contract service providers and an estimate of the quantity of ADCs that can be produced per batch. The analysis highlights the distribution of global capacity by size of the company / organization (small-sized, mid-sized and large-sized) and geography (North America, Europe and Asia Pacific). Chapter 10 provides a comprehensive overview of the market landscape of ADCs that are already approved and those that are under development (clinical and preclinical). This chapter includes information related to their current phase of development (wherever applicable), key target indications, developer company / organization, affiliated technology provider(s) and the type(s) of cytotoxin(s) and linker(s) used. Chapter 11 features an elaborate discussion and competitive analysis of the various ADC conjugation approaches. This chapter also features an overview of the evolution of these technologies, highlighting the competition between contemporary technology platforms. Chapter 12 features a comprehensive geographical clinical trial analysis of completed, ongoing and planned studies of various ADCs (approved / under development). The analysis provides details related to the different types of payloads and linkers investigated / being investigated across various geographies, based on the number of trials registered, current trial status, phase of development, number of patients enrolled and duration of the (recently initiated) trials (2015 onwards). Chapter 13 features acomprehensive analysis of the annual demand of ADCs (in grams) taking into account commercial, as well as clinical scale requirements. This was based on the parameters such as target patient population, dosing frequency and dose strength of approved products and clinical stage candidates. Chapter 14 presents a comprehensive market forecast analysis, highlighting the likely growth of the contract manufacturing market of ADCs, till 2030. The chapter provides likely distribution of the projected future opportunity based on scale of operation (commercial, phase III, phase II and phase I), component / process type (antibody, cytotoxic / linker, conjugation, fill / finish and others), target indications (solid tumors and hematological malignancies), type of payload used (auristatin, calicheamicin (ozogamicin), duocarmycin, DXd (exatecan derivative), maytansinoid, pyrrolobenzodiazepines (talirine, tesirine) and others), type of linker used (succinimidyl 4-(n-maleimidomethyl) cyclohexane-1-carboxylate, valine-citrulline, hydrazone, valine-alanine, n-succinimidyl-4-(2-pyridyldithio) butanoate and others) and geography (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and rest of the world). Chapter 15 provides a detailed analysis capturing the key parameters and trends that are likely to influence the future of ADC contract manufacturing market, under a comprehensive SWOT framework. Chapter 16 is a summary of the overall report. In this chapter, we have provided a list of key takeaways from the report, and expressed our independent opinion related to the research and analysis described in the previous chapters. Chapter 17 is a collection of interview transcripts of the discussions that were held with key stakeholders in this market. The chapter provides details of interviews held with Aldo Braca (Chief Executive Officer, BSP Pharmaceuticals) and Giorgio Salciarini (Technical Business Development Manager, BSP Pharmaceuticals), Anthony DeBoer (Director, Business Development, Synaffix), Christian Bailly (Director of CDMO, Pierre Fabre), Christian Rohlff (Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Oxford BioTherapeutics), Jennifer L. Mitcham (Director, Business Development, Catalent Pharma Solutions) and Stacy McDonald (Group Product Manager, Catalent Pharma Solutions), John Burt (Chief Executive Officer, Abzena), Laurent Ducry (Head of Bioconjugates Commercial Development, Lonza), Mark Wright (Site Head, Piramal Healthcare), Sasha Koniev (Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder, Syndivia), Anonymous (Director, Business Development, Leading CMO) and Anonymous (Chief Executive Officer, Leading CMO) Chapter 18 is an appendix, which provides tabulated data and numbers for all the figures included in the report. Chapter 19 is an appendix, which provides the list of companies and organizations mentioned in the report. Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/3290025 About Reportbuyer Reportbuyer is a leading industry intelligence solution that provides all market research reports from top publishers For more information: Sarah Smith Research Advisor at Reportbuyer.com Email: [email protected] Tel: +1 (718) 213 4904 Website: www.reportbuyer.com SOURCE ReportBuyer Related Links http://www.reportbuyer.com AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Banker's Toolbox, Inc., leaders in the financial compliance and risk mitigation industry, announced a new scholarship for financial professionals looking to advance their career in the anti-money laundering (AML) field by becoming a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS). In a partnership with the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS), Banker's Toolbox has established five scholarships for the CAMS certification program to promote the importance of anti-money laundering detection, enforcement and prevention. This certification is the gold standard in AML certifications and is internationally recognized by financial institutions, governments and regulators as a true dedication to protecting the financial system against money laundering. Terri Luttrell, CAMS-Audit, senior manager of strategy and evangelism for Banker's Toolbox, emphasizes the importance of getting a CAMS certification: "You really take your career to the next level when you achieve a CAMS certification. It is a badge of honor that proudly displays your commitment to detecting and preventing money laundering. It is recognized and honored around the world for what it represents." A CAMS certification does not just impact an individual, but their entire institution. It helps drive a culture of compliance from the top down and proves an institution's commitment to actively and purposefully protecting the financial system against financial crime and preventing illicit funds from entering into it. With the current complexity of financial crimes, institutions need an understanding of new money laundering/fraud trends and a broad understanding of how schemes work. These are the building blocks to successfully protect an institution and why the CAMS certification is so important. Darrin Hanson, Chief Revenue Officer adds, "Banker's Toolbox understands the importance of continuing education to achieve advanced certifications in the financial industry. Our own staff consists of over 10 CAMS-certified professionals and we recognize the value that represents in detecting and preventing money laundering. We are proud to extend that to helping those in the industry enhance their knowledge of anti-money laundering efforts to set them up for successful careers." Applications are accepted from October 3 November 2 through the Banker's Toolbox website. To apply or learn more about the Banker's Toolbox CAMS Scholarship, please visit https://www.bankerstoolbox.com/bankers-toolbox-scholarships/cams/. About Banker's Toolbox, Inc. Austin, TX-based Banker's Toolbox, Inc. helps financial institutions manage risk and detect financial crime. The company's product suite provides tailored solutions for BSA/AML and fraud detection, beneficial ownership, OFAC scanning, and secure wire processing automation that are designed, supported and served by industry experts. The Banker's Toolbox team is a unique combination of seasoned bankers, former regulators, and information technology consultants who specialize in designing, developing, and implementing risk management solutions while providing unparalleled customer service. With Banker's Toolbox, users are empowered with transparency, control over their systems and flexible deployment options, laying the groundwork for growth and success. For more information, please visit www.bankerstoolbox.com. SOURCE Banker's Toolbox, Inc. Related Links http://www.bankerstoolbox.com BD Peripheral Intervention will be the first business to move to the new campus that is focused on attracting new technology companies to Tempe. BD Peripheral Intervention develops and manufactures innovative endovascular devices that provide critical interventions to help improve blood circulation for patients with peripheral artery disease, end-stage kidney disease and cancer. "BD will be the first company to locate on the I.D.E.A. campus, and we are so proud to have BD and its employees grow in our community," said Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell. "The I.D.E.A. Tempe campus is designed to create a place where the brightest people in science can create and collaborate together. The space also offers exposure to the arts and instant access to the finest outdoor urban recreation area this state has to offer." When completed, I.D.E.A. Tempe will encompass nearly 18 acres and will include more than 1 million sq. ft. of commercial buildings, including multiple office buildings, a hotel, restaurants, structured parking and additional art and classroom related space. "BD is a prime example of the type of company that thrives in Arizona's business climate," said Gov. Ducey. "High-tech companies, including medical technology companies like BD, will form the foundation of Arizona's 21st century economy that will continue to create highly rewarding careers for Arizonans, advance the way we do business and improve the way we live. The I.D.E.A. campus is perfectly aligned with these objectives." Steve Williamson, president of BD Peripheral Intervention said, "Our move to I.D.E.A. Tempe is symbolic for the future of BD Peripheral Intervention, because we are passionate about taking ideas and making them a reality to improve people's lives. The momentum being driven by Mayor Mitchell in Tempe and Gov. Ducey in Arizona will help move companies like BD forward, help grow the technology economy and help create new jobs in Tempe and across Arizona." Matt Jensen, a partner with The Boyer Company said, "The Boyer Company is proud to be working closely with the City of Tempe to develop the I.D.E.A. BD is the type of company we had hoped to attract to the site. We could not be happier with their commitment to the project. We are excited that the project is beginning to take shape and look forward to making additional announcements about the project in the future." About BD BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics and the delivery of care. The company supports the heroes on the frontlines of health care by developing innovative technology, services and solutions that help advance both clinical therapy for patients and clinical process for health care providers. BD and its 65,000 employees have a passion and commitment to help improve patient outcomes, improve the safety and efficiency of clinicians' care delivery process, enable laboratory scientists to better diagnose disease and advance researchers' capabilities to develop the next generation of diagnostics and therapeutics. BD has a presence in virtually every country and partners with organizations around the world to address some of the most challenging global health issues. By working in close collaboration with customers, BD can help enhance outcomes, lower costs, increase efficiencies, improve safety and expand access to health care. In 2017, BD welcomed C. R. Bard and its products into the BD family. For more information on BD, please visit bd.com. About the City of Tempe Tempe makes waves as a technology and business magnet, an inclusive, caring community and a hub for recreation and adventure. Home to the famous Mill Avenue, Tempe Town Lake and Arizona State University, Tempe stands out as a destination of choice. www.tempe.gov/economicdevelopment Contacts: Troy Kirkpatrick Monique N. Dolecki BD Public Relations BD Investor Relations 858.617.2361 201.847.5378 [email protected] [email protected] SOURCE BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) Related Links http://www.bd.com FARGO, N.D., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to combat hunger throughout Greater Cleveland, Beachwood High School students have partnered together with SunButter, Welch's and Orlando Baking Company to create the world's longest sandwich line in an event dubbed "Herd Against Hunger," on October 14. Spearheaded by high school junior Lena Leland, the event will set out to break the current world record. Forty thousand sandwiches will be created with over 9,000 pounds of food, and will be bagged, then assembled end to end to form a whopping 13,333 foot-long sandwich line that spans just over 2.5 miles. Following this momentous undertaking, every sandwich will be donated to Greater Cleveland area organizations that feed the hungry. "Creating the longest sandwich line is not just about setting a recordit is about addressing the heartbreaking poverty in our own backyard," said Leland. "We are so grateful to the companies donating their products, and for the students, families and teachers for donating their time and effort to the "Herd Against Hunger"; because of them, thousands of families will have something nutritious and delicious to eat." To make "Herd Against Hunger" possible, Beachwood High School has teamed up with three premier food companies that, when paired together, make a healthy, delicious sandwich: SunButter : Though Beachwood High School is not a nut-free campus, it only serves SunButter, an allergy-friendly option. Packed with protein and containing less saturated fat and more micro nutrients than traditional nut butters, SunButter is made with four ingredients or less (depending on the variety) and most of its offerings are Non-GMO Project Verified. Each serving offers 7 grams of protein and contains no cholesterol, trans fats or preservatives. Though Beachwood High School is not a nut-free campus, it only serves SunButter, an allergy-friendly option. Packed with protein and containing less saturated fat and more micro nutrients than traditional nut butters, SunButter is made with four ingredients or less (depending on the variety) and most of its offerings are Non-GMO Project Verified. Each serving offers 7 grams of protein and contains no cholesterol, trans fats or preservatives. Welch's : Made in the USA by a co-op of more than 800 family farmers, Welch's Natural Concord Grape Spread contains no high fructose corn syrup, no preservatives, and no artificial colors or flavors. Every bottle and jar contains the deliciously unmistakable fruit taste Americans have been enjoying for years. Made in the by a co-op of more than 800 family farmers, Welch's Natural Concord Grape Spread contains no high fructose corn syrup, no preservatives, and no artificial colors or flavors. Every bottle and jar contains the deliciously unmistakable fruit taste Americans have been enjoying for years. Orlando Baking Company: Orlando Baking Company is a family-run business that is known and loved in communities from Cleveland to Europe . Continuing an ongoing commitment to giving back to the community, Orlando Baking Company is proud to donate its famous Italian Twist bread, a popular hand-twisted recipe developed in 1872, to support these efforts. "We commend Beachwood High School, along with our partners, Welch's and Orlando Baking Company, for this effort to bring to life the plight of hunger that hits the community," said Justin LaGosh, director of sales and marketing at SunButter. "We are honored to know Lena thought of SunButter as the allergy-friendly spread option to support this incredible event and we look forward to achieving our goals with this devoted team!" "Herd Against Hunger" will take place at Beachwood High School in Beachwood, Ohio, on Sunday, October 14, from 8:00 a.m. approx. 6:00 p.m. EST. For more information about the "Herd Against Hunger" visit www.beachwoodschools.org/herdagainsthunger.aspx. For media inquiries, contact [email protected]. About Welch's Welch's is the processing and marketing subsidiary of the National Grape Cooperative. Located across America and in Ontario, Canada, the cooperative's approximately 800 family farmers own the company and grow the delicious and inherently healthy Concord grapes used in Welch's juices and other grape-based products. Welch's is committed to research and development that will meet the growing demand for products that address consumers' health and nutrition needs. Welch's products are sold throughout the United States and in approximately 40 countries around the globe. Welch's is an Equal Opportunity Employer-Minorities/Female/Disabled/Veterans. About Orlando Baking Company Orlando Baking Company is a family business, founded in 1872 in Castel di Sangro, Italy. In 1904, part of the Orlando family moved to Cleveland and introduced their popular European classics. Five generations later, Orlando Baking Company continues to grow, operating out of a 300-employee, state-of-the-art Cleveland plant, providing an ever-expanding line of high quality products. Orlando products reach not only the local market, but the nation's retail and foodservice markets as well through an expansive distribution network. Orlando Baking Company has always been a generous company and values giving back to the community in many ways. For example, donating bread to the local food banks each year is at the heart of the giving. Other organizations such as churches, life-saving organizations, schools and more benefit from their generosity. Please visit www.orlandobaking.com to learn more about the company. About SunButter Founded in 2002 in Fargo, North Dakota, SunButter LLC is the pioneer of seed-to-jar sunflower butter. SunButter was developed as delicious solution for families with peanut and tree nut allergies. SunButter is free from the top eight food allergens: peanuts, tree nuts, soy, milk, eggs, wheat, fish, and crustacean shellfish. SunButter is also free from Canada's ten priority food allergens, which include mustard, sulfites, and sesame. Made with delicious U.S. grown, roasted sunflower seed, SunButter boasts 7 grams of protein per serving and more vitamins and minerals than nut butters. SunButter provides 45 percent of the U.S. recommended daily allowance for vitamin E with no trans-fats and less saturated fat than the leading brand of almond butter. SunButter is vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and certified kosher. All SunButter varieties are made with non-GMO sunflowers, and most varieties are Non-GMO Project Verified. SunButter products are available at Walmart and other fine retailers nationwide. To find a retailer close to you, visit SunButter's store locator at http://sunbutter.com/buy. For more information, visit SunButter.com or SunButterFoodService.com. SOURCE SunButter Related Links http://www.sunbutterfoodservice.com Kimball, originally an educator, developed a number of innovations that improved the quality of life for students and teachers during his time as superintendent of Dallas public schools. In 1929, when Kimball moved to Baylor University Hospital to help restore the institution to financial health, he designed an individual hospital prepayment plan, expanding on the success of a similar program he started in the school system. This idea of "group hospitalization" eventually expanded to become the national system of Blue Cross and Blue Shield and into the insurance plans recognizable today. "This award seeks to recognize and raise awareness around health care professionals who have an innate drive to provide better access to high-quality, affordable health care for patients," said Dr. Dan McCoy, president, BCBSTX. "We are thrilled to announce Dr. Vivian Ho as the inaugural award winner." Dr. Ho, a nationally-renowned health care researcher and economist, continues that innovative spirit. Currently the James A. Baker III Institute Chair in Health Economics at Rice University, Dr. Ho's research examines the effects of economic incentives and regulations on the quality and costs of health care and is widely published in research journals. "Dr. Ho's contributions to public health and her role in protecting Texans follows Justin Kimball's spirit of innovation and commitment to protecting her community," McCoy continued. About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) the only statewide, customer-owned health insurer in Texas is the largest provider of health benefits in the state, working with nearly 80,000 physicians and healthcare practitioners, and 500 hospitals to serve more than 5 million members in all 254 counties. BCBSTX is a Division of Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) (which operates Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans in Texas, Illinois, Montana, Oklahoma and New Mexico), the country's largest customer-owned health insurer, and fourth largest health insurer overall. Health Care Service Corporation is a Mutual Legal Reserve Company and an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. BCBSTX.com | Twitter.com/BCBSTX | Facebook.com/BlueCrossBlueShieldOfTexas | YouTube.com/BCBSTX SOURCE Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas Related Links http://www.bcbstx.com BOSTON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- A new study released today by Brattle economists and prepared for the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada (PUCN) and the Nevada Governor's Office of Energy (GOE) finds that energy storage can be a cost-effective component of Nevada's energy resource mix. The Brattle study found that, for the Nevada system with a peak demand of roughly 8,500 MW, up to 175 MW of utility-scale battery storage (with 4-hour storage capacity) could be deployed cost effectively by 2020. By 2030, declines in storage costs and changing market conditions could increase cost-effective deployment levels to a range from 700 MW to more than 1,000 MW. The study also notes that behind-the-meter storage adoption by commercial and industrial customers could further increase this value by up to 70 MW by 2030. "We have applied a new approach to determine how the simultaneous capture of multiple value streams impacts cost-effective storage deployment levels," noted Ryan Hledik, a Brattle principal and co-author of the study. "Our findings have implications that extend beyond the state borders of Nevada." A number of the study's findings are relevant for other systems that are exploring the value of storage: A 30% decline in storage costs (e.g., from $300 /kWh to $210 /kWh) would increase cost-effective deployment levels by 200% to 500%. /kWh to /kWh) would increase cost-effective deployment levels by 200% to 500%. The economically optimal level of energy storage deployment increases as system conditions evolve and flexibility needs increase over time. At a given cost of energy storage, optimal deployment levels are more than twice as high in 2030 as in 2020. The ability to use battery systems to mitigate distribution system outages potentially accounts for 20% to 40% of the total benefits, which can significantly increase the economically optimal level of storage deployment. High-value opportunities can decline quickly. For instance, most of the identified opportunities for geographically-targeted transmission and distribution investment deferrals in Nevada were captured with only about 200 MW of energy storage. Other value streams, such as resource adequacy value, are less sensitive to deployment levels. The Brattle study's findings are largely consistent with those of similar recent studies in Massachusetts, New York, and Texas, when comparing the optimal storage deployment levels relative to system size. Based on the findings of the study, Nevada policymakers will consider establishing a statewide energy storage procurement target. Recognizing uncertainty in future storage costs, the Brattle authors recommend defining future storage procurement goals as a function of costs. "Optimal storage procurement targets increase as storage costs decline," said Roger Lueken, a Brattle associate and co-author of the study. "A flexible approach to procurement would allow larger quantities of storage to be deployed if storage costs decline quickly." The study, "The Economic Potential for Energy Storage in Nevada," is authored by Ryan Hledik, Judy Chang, Roger Lueken, Johannes Pfeifenberger, John Imon Pedtke, and Jeremy Vollen. It has been filed with the PUCN under Docket No. 17-07014 and is available for download at brattle.com. The Brattle Group analyzes complex economic, finance, and regulatory questions for corporations, law firms, and governments around the world. We are distinguished by the clarity of our insights and the credibility of our experts, which include leading international academics and industry specialists. For more information, please visit www.brattle.com. SOURCE The Brattle Group Related Links http://www.brattle.com The four-story, 139,431 sq. ft. development will be located on approximately one acre at the SW corner of Clark Avenue and 1st Street. Sited to the southeast of the Las Vegas City Hall, the Municipal Courthouse is designed to complement City Hall while starting to create a complex of City facilities. The site is located near the City parking garage, the Detention Center, and the Regional Justice Center. The Courthouse is designed to meet LEED Silver level requirements and will be built for approximately $56.3M. Joining The Molasky Group on the development team are: Martin Harris Construction as general contractor, PGAL as lead architect, X-9 Design Group as design architects, Walter P. Moore as structural engineer, MS Engineering for MEP and ITS, and GCW Engineering as civil engineers. "It is exciting that a new courthouse is coming to the government corridor in downtown Las Vegas," Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman said. "The Molasky Group has been a longtime private-sector partner and we look forward to having a first-class Municipal Courthouse to serve the people of Las Vegas." "It is an honor for the Molasky Group and our development team to partner with the City of Las Vegas to build the new municipal courthouse," said Rich Worthington, president and chief operating officer. "The City has longed for a courthouse and we plan on providing municipal judges, staff and city residents with a state of the art facility where justice can be served proudly." The four-story facility will house the City's Municipal Court functions including Traffic Court, six additional Courtrooms, City Attorney's office, customer service, court administration, classrooms and public space. Included in a sub-basement level will be secure parking and a sally port for prisoner transportation. Construction is scheduled to commence around August 2019 and will bring more than 150 construction jobs to downtown Las Vegas. The project will be complete by January 2021. "The new Municipal Court project is just another example of the exciting things happening in the downtown," said City Manager Scott Adams. "It's why many are calling this a time where downtown lights up!" "This is opportunity to have a more efficiently designed facility that will allow our Municipal Court to better serve the current and future needs of the citizens of the city of Las Vegas," said Municipal Court Administrator Dana Hlavac. "The close proximity to the Regional Justice Center and the Supreme Court building will allow for a continued strong level of cooperation and communication among all levels of the judiciary." For Irwin Molasky, founder and chairman of the Molasky Group, the new municipal courthouse is a very special project that intertwines with a lifetime love and respect for the Rule of Law. He is a founder of Project REAL (Real Education About the Law), a non-profit organization that has educated nearly 40,000 schoolchildren on democracy and their rights; he served on the board of directors for the National Judicial College and has been honored by the Nevada Supreme Court for his knowledge and love of the law. About the Molasky Group The Molasky Group of Companies is one of the most prolific real estate development and property management companies in the United States. For 67 years, the company has created an impressive and highly marketable portfolio of office, commercial, multi-family, retail, healthcare, aviation, law-enforcement and correctional properties. The Molasky Group has significant experience with Public-Private Partnerships on large-scale build-to-suit projects for federal, state and local agencies, having successfully completed more than $2.0B of new construction. And, it is a market leader in sustainable construction building seven LEED Gold, three LEED Silver and two LEED Certified large scale properties across the United States. The Molasky Group is based in Southern Nevada and has offices in Atlanta, Georgia and Portland, Oregon. For more information visit http://molaskyco.com/ SOURCE The Molasky Group Related Links http://www.molaskyco.com HEWITT, N.J., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Over 470 college radio stations are uniting for College Radio Day this Friday, October 5, across the United States and around the world. The event is a celebration of college radio, and this year has support from leaders such as Chairman of the FCC Ajit Pai, former Vice President Joe Biden, and Joan Jett and Kenny Laguna, who are the official ambassadors of the event. In advance of this Friday, a College Radio Day Task Force group visited Washington, DC, in late September to meet with FCC Chairman Ajit Pai and officials from the US Copyright Office. College Radio Day 2018 College Radio Foundation At the FCC, Chairman Pai presented the group with a letter of recognition stating: "College radio has long been a staple of the campus experience, providing a platform for students to have their voices heard and the opportunity to shape their identities.... From promoting new, local-underground music to encouraging political awareness, college radio has united listeners across the country and throughout the world." College Radio Day President and UTA Radio Faculty Advisor Lance Liguez is delighted by the visit: "Our students have learned in class about working within the rules set by the FCC and Copyright Office, so what better way to drive home those points than by meeting face-to-face with those who actually set policy." The theme this year for CRD is "When All Else Fails, College Radio Speaks" and participating stations will explore and highlight how college radio provides a platform for students to talk about issues and stories that are important to them. It is often college radio that gives a spotlight to local stories and issues and provides a voice for those not heard anywhere else. "Only on college radio will you hear music and programming you just can't find anywhere else, and it's the place where the future broadcast journalists of tomorrow start their careers," says Rob Quicke, founder of CRD and Professor of Communication at William Paterson University in New Jersey. The aim of College Radio Day is to raise greater awareness of the many student radio stations that operate around the world by encouraging people who would not normally listen to college radio to do so on this day. Stations are planning special programming and events that include live music from local artists, on-campus festivities and inviting alumni back onto the airwaves. College Radio Day, organized by the non-profit College Radio Foundation, is an annual event that celebrates college radio stations and those that staff them. Founded in 2011, College Radio Day unites hundreds of college stations for the day. Now in its eighth year, College Radio Day 2018 will take place globally on Friday, October 5. For more information, please visit www.collegeradio.org. Press contact: Lance Liguez: 817-312-5976 Email: [email protected]. SOURCE College Radio Foundation Related Links http://www.collegeradio.org YARDLEY, Pa., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Crown Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CCK) will release its earnings for the third quarter ended September 30, 2018 after the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange on Wednesday, October 17, 2018. The Company will hold a conference call to discuss these results at 9:00 a.m. (EDT) on Thursday, October 18, 2018. The dial-in numbers for the conference call are (630) 395-0194 or toll-free (888) 324-8108 and the access password is "packaging". A replay of the conference call will be available for a one-week period ending at midnight on October 25, 2018. The telephone numbers for the replay are (203) 369-1045 or toll free (866) 439-3740. A live webcast of the call will be made available to the public on the internet at the Company's website, www.crowncork.com. Crown Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is a leading global supplier of rigid packaging products to consumer marketing companies, as well as transit and protective packaging products, equipment and services to a broad range of end markets. World headquarters are located in Yardley, Pennsylvania. For more information, contact Corporate Communications at (215) 698-5351. SOURCE Crown Holdings, Inc. Related Links http://www.crowncork.com The DCS-1820LM 4G LTE Camera wins the Good Design Award and will be showcased at the Good Design Exhibition in Japan TAIPEI, Taiwan, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- D-Link Corporation is proud to announce that the DCS-1820LM 4G LTE Camera received the 2018 Good Design Award. The DCS-1820LM is also a recent winner of the 2018 CES Innovations Award, 2018 iF Design Award, and 2018 Computex d&i award. "As the leading homegrown vodka in the region, it's a key part of our mission that we work with flavors and ingredients that are core to the southeast," said Matti Anttila, CEO of Grain & Barrel Spirits and founder of Dixie Vodka. "We want to tell a story about where our ingredients are from and who our partners are. Beyond being a delicious, locally sourced ingredient, honey also tells a critical sustainability story for the region. Healthy bee populations are vital to our everyday lives and we hope we can do our part in working with Savannah Bee Company and The Bee Cause Project to help promote positive awareness for the challenges bees face." "Savannah Bee Company strives to live as bees live: symbiotically with nature and in a manner that contributes positively to the world around us," said Ted Dennard, Founder of Savannah Bee Company and The Bee Cause Project. "Our Georgia Wildflower Honey is made from a variety of nectar sources depending on the whimsy of the bees. It's the perfect all-around honey. Infused with Dixie Vodka it also makes for one fantastic spirit." Rolling out this month, Dixie Wildflower Honey Vodka will initially be available in leading retailers, bars and restaurants in South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Kentucky, before expanding across the region through the holidays. For high-resolution photographs, media inquiries and more information, contact Deja Knight at [email protected] or (802) 827-0273. About Dixie Vodka Dixie Vodka launched in South Carolina in 2014 by Grain & Barrel Spirits includes five unique flavors: Dixie Southern Vodka, Dixie Black Pepper, Dixie Mint, Dixie Citrus, and now Dixie Wildflower Honey Vodka. Dixie Vodka embodies both premium quality and value, allowing food and drink enthusiasts to create signature cocktails that perfectly fit their lifestyle. Celebrated as the South's Best Tasting Vodka, Dixie Vodka represents the best of southern craftsmanship and hospitality. Awards include the top Platinum Medal, as voted by consumers, at the 2014-2017 Sip Awards, along with multiple Gold Medals and "Best Buy" endorsements by the Beverage Testing Institute. Dixie Vodka is proud to be a member of 1% For The Planet. Bottled at 80-proof, Dixie Vodka retails for $18.99 for a 750 ml bottle. About Savannah Bee Company Savannah Bee Company is the leading manufacturer of all things Honeybee. Ted Dennard, the brand's Founder, President and Head Beekeeper has established a growing empire based on his extensive knowledge of the Honeybee, acquired over 35 years of studying this unique species. The brand's offerings include the purest forms of honey for cooking and tasting, as well as nourishing beauty products made from honeybee hive ingredients. In addition to offering a wide range of honeybee-based products for everyday use, Savannah Bee is a proud parent and supporter of The Bee Cause Project, a not-for-profit whose mission is to educate the next generation to better understand, love and protect the honeybees. To reach this goal, the organization installs observation honeybee hives in schools worldwide, with over 300 installed to date. Savannah Bee products are available for purchase online and at multiple retailers across the United States. For more information, visit www.savannahbee.com . SOURCE Dixie Vodka Related Links http://www.dixievodka.com MIAMI, Oct. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Dvdendo , the leading bilingual, micro-investing platform to service the Latino market, is proud to announce the successful completion of its Series A round of financing. DILA Capital, a Mexico based Venture Capital fund, led the investment round with participation from existing investor Ideas & Capital along with other private investors. This new funding will be used to help the company expand its sales and marketing efforts to continue serving the US Hispanic market, roll out the investment platform in Latin America and launch its unique and proprietary financial education platform in the fall of 2018. "Since spearheading Dvdendo's previous round of funding last year, we have witnessed firsthand the company's rapid growth and consolidation of its operations, and we are excited to participate in this new round of financing, alongside new partners, that will certainly propel the company even further," said Ricardo Elizondo, Managing Partner, Ideas & Capital. Dvdendo launched in 2017 with the mission to promote and foster the habit of investing among Hispanics, enabling them to save for the future and take charge of their finances through better financial planning. In its first year, the company has gained more than 95,000 users, which speaks to the Hispanic market's financial optimism and undeniable potential. While Hispanics have a long standing history of investing less for the future, due to a combination of factors including lack of access to investment products and lower levels of financial literacy, a recent Simmons study estimates that close to 1.3 million Hispanics plan to make their first financial investment ever over the next twelve months. This means, Hispanics will represent a third of all new investors in the market in the next year alone. "We are very excited to partner with Dvdendo to service a fast-growing and unattended U.S. Hispanic market, while also promoting financial inclusion for Latinos throughout the Americas. The Dvdendo team has done an amazing job at executing their strategy and vision, and we are impressed with what they have accomplished to date. We believe this new capital will enable the company to further invest in their team and continue their rapid growth," said Eduardo Clave, Managing Partner, DILA Capital. With the current socio-economic situation affecting many Latin American countries, which have been experiencing record high devaluation of their local currencies, many Latin Americans have traditionally resorted to opening bank accounts in the US while only a select few have investing alternatives available to them. As the world's second-fastest-growing mobile market, Latin America presents a ripe opportunity for Dvdendo, as the region has been widely neglected when it comes to investing and financial planning. Dvdendo can help the population gain access to better investment products while cultivating good financial habits in a way that comes naturally to them -- through their mobile devices. "In the past year, we experienced overwhelming growth as Hispanics living in the U.S., who have been traditionally underserved, have taken an interest in investing and, today, they can access an investment solution that allows them to take control of their financial planning in their own language, in an easy and automated way," said Gabriel Montoya, CEO of Dvdendo. "We're thrilled to have secured this investment to pursue new opportunities and engage and empower more people, while also dedicating our efforts to bringing our investment platform to Latin America, fostering financial education and building better attitudes towards personal finances across the Americas." Media Contact Latiffe Ghanem [email protected] (305) 479-0279 SOURCE Dvdendo Related Links http://www.dvdendo.com CHICAGO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Relativity, developers of the industry-leading e-discovery software, today announced Deloitte, Bricker & Eckler, and Clayton Utz are the winners of the 2018 Relativity Innovation Awards at the ninth annual Relativity Fest. The Relativity Innovation Awards annually celebrate organizations that build applications and integrations to streamline common e-discovery processes, extend the functionality of Relativity, and help its more than 180,000 global users organize data, discover the truth, and act on it. Category winners were: Deloitte , Best Innovation: Solution Provider for their FOIA app, which combined Relativity's data processing, analytics, technology-assisted review, and redaction functionality in a unique FOIA processing workflow. Deloitte's FOIA clients saw 50 to 150 percent increases in efficiency and accuracy with the app. , for their FOIA app, which combined Relativity's data processing, analytics, technology-assisted review, and redaction functionality in a unique FOIA processing workflow. Deloitte's FOIA clients saw 50 to 150 percent increases in efficiency and accuracy with the app. Bricker & Eckler , Best Innovation: Law Firm or Corporation for Petition Analyzer, a highly-automated app to review petition signatures and track projections for valid/invalid signatures on an 'election-style' county map of Ohio . This is the second win for Bricker & Eckler, which won Best Innovation in 2017 for their Land Tracker app. , for Petition Analyzer, a highly-automated app to review petition signatures and track projections for valid/invalid signatures on an 'election-style' county map of . This is the second win for Bricker & Eckler, which won Best Innovation in 2017 for their Land Tracker app. Clayton Utz , Best Innovation: Community Choice for Provisor, an app designed to meet significant regulatory requirements to capture all relevant duplicates for different notices from client-provided load files. Provisor has helped increase client satisfaction and efficiency while reducing client cost by 75 percent. "It's a privilege to congratulate Deloitte, Bricker & Eckler, and Clayton Utz on their Best Innovation awards," said Drew Deitch, senior manager for strategic partnerships at Relativity. "Our winners this year solved unique challenges in e-discovery and beyond and made an impact for our shared customers and end users. Our judges had their work cut out, because this year our community seriously raised the level of creativity, sophistication, and complexity of their Relativity solutions." The Solution Provider and Law Firm or Corporation winners were chosen by a panel of judges that included Kelly Twigger, principal at ESI Attorneys; Dera Nevin, senior associate for international commercial at Baker McKenzie; and Joy Murao, founder and principal consultant at Practice Aligned Resources. Community Choice was decided by a vote open to the entire e-discovery community. Four individual awards were awarded this year for the first time to recognize legal technology champions and Relativity advocates. The winners were: Joy Murao , founder and principal consultant at Practice Aligned Resources, for the Stellar Women in e-Discovery award, for inspiring others to "step out and pay it forward" while finding innovative solutions for clients' legal practice challenges. , founder and principal consultant at Practice Aligned Resources, for the Stellar Women in e-Discovery award, for inspiring others to "step out and pay it forward" while finding innovative solutions for clients' legal practice challenges. Tessa Jacob , senior counsel at Husch Blackwell, for the Attorney Tech Evangelist award, for broad legal technology expertise, e-discovery law fluency, and dedication to legal education. , senior counsel at Husch Blackwell, for the Attorney Tech Evangelist award, for broad legal technology expertise, e-discovery law fluency, and dedication to legal education. Emma Young , director at Consilio, for the Lit Support All-Star award, for training her attorney clients to use Relativity Analytics and excellent leadership and expertise on specific client matters. , director at Consilio, for the Lit Support All-Star award, for training her attorney clients to use Relativity Analytics and excellent leadership and expertise on specific client matters. Peg Gianuca , e-discovery technical solutions manager at The Walt Disney Company and adjunct instructor at UCLA , for the Academic Innovator of the Year award, for showing extraordinary dedication to bringing technology into legal education. Winners for these awards were chosen by community vote, except for Academic Innovator of the Year, which was awarded by a Relativity committee. The Relativity Innovation Awards ceremony immediately preceded the closing keynote for Relativity Fest, capping the conference which was held from September 30 to October 3 in Chicago. Relativity Fest is a chance for members of the e-discovery community to learn more about the platform and celebrate how visionary partners, like submitters to the Innovation Awards, help those in the industry and beyond find the truth in their data faster. About Relativity At Relativity, we make software to help users organize data, discover the truth, and act on it. Our e-discovery platform is used by thousands of organizations around the world to manage large volumes of data and quickly identify key issues during litigation, internal investigations, and compliance projects. Relativity has over 180,000 users in 40+ countries from organizations including the U.S. Department of Justice, more than 70 Fortune 100 companies, and 198 of the Am Law 200. RelativityOne offers all the functionality of Relativity in a secure and comprehensive SaaS product. Relativity has been named one of Chicago's Top Workplaces by the Chicago Tribune for seven consecutive years. Please contact Relativity at [email protected] or visit http://www.relativity.com for more information. Relativity Media Contact Mike Gilhooly Public Relations Manager [email protected] +1 (312) 216-5951 SOURCE Relativity Related Links https://www.relativity.com ATLANTA, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Equifax (NYSE: EFX), a global information solutions company, announced today it has once again been named to the 2018 IDC FinTech Rankings, the most comprehensive vendor ranking within the financial services industry. The company has earned a spot on the annual ranking in each of the 15 years the ranking has been produced. "A place on the IDC FinTech Rankings is a significant accomplishment, demonstrating a provider's commitment to the success of its financial institution clients," said Karen Massey, Research Manager at IDC Financial Insights. "The IDC FinTech Rankings, now in its 15th year, is the global industry standard register of financial services tech providers, and we congratulate the 2018 winners." "We stand committed to providing our customers with access to industry-leading data, analytics, insights and proven technology to support their business initiatives," said Scott Collins, Sr. Vice President and General Manager, Banking and Lending, Equifax. "IDC Financial Insights is widely recognized as a thought leader at the forefront of our industry and we are honored to once again be included in its annual fintech ranking." The annual IDC Financial Insights FinTech Rankings recognizes companies that are among the top financial technology providers worldwide based on 2017 calendar year revenues. Global providers of financial technology in hardware, software and services are categorized and evaluated by IDC to determine key players in the space. Follow our product news on Twitter at @EquifaxInsights and on LinkedIn at Equifax Business Insights. About Equifax Equifax is a global information solutions company that uses trusted unique data, innovative analytics, technology and industry expertise to power organizations and individuals around the world by transforming knowledge into insights that help make more informed business and personal decisions. Headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., Equifax operates or has investments in 24 countries in North America, Central and South America, Europe and the Asia Pacific region. It is a member of Standard & Poor's (S&P) 500 Index, and its common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol EFX. Equifax employs approximately 10,800 employees worldwide. About IDC Financial Insights IDC Financial Insights assists financial service businesses and IT leaders, as well as the suppliers who serve them, in making more effective technology decisions by providing accurate, timely, and insightful fact-based research and consulting services. Staffed by senior analysts with decades of industry experience, our global research analyzes and advises on business and technology issues facing the banking, insurance, and securities and investments industries. International Data Corporation (IDC) is the premier global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, and events for the information technology market. IDC is a subsidiary of International Data Group (IDG), the world's leading technology, media, research, and events company. For more information, please visit www.idc.com/financial, email [email protected], or call 508-620-5533. FOR MORE INFORMATION 1550 Peachtree Street, NE Atlanta, Georgia 30309 Wyatt Jefferies Sr. Director, Public Relations 404-885-8907 [email protected] SOURCE Equifax Inc. Related Links http://www.equifax.com CHICAGO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- EVERSANA, the leading independent provider of global services to the life science industry, today announced the addition of Seeker Health to its platform. Headquartered in Palo Alto, Calif., Seeker Health offers breakthrough digital patient identification technology to accelerate drug development and commercialization for biopharmaceutical companies. The company excels at identifying and engaging patients with complex diseases for clinical trials and patient databases. Now powered by EVERSANA, Seeker Health technology will be applied throughout the full product lifecycle, helping clients create stronger patient relationships through continued engagement. "We face a pivotal shift in healthcare as medicines become increasingly more precise, serving smaller and harder-to-find patient populations. Our technology has already helped biopharmaceutical companies accelerate clinical trial enrollment, launch therapies faster and reach the patients who need them. Now, we can have an even greater impact by engaging patients throughout the entire lifecycle of a medicine," shared Sandra Shpilberg, founder & president, Seeker Health. "It's been an honor to see our idea grow into technology that has such a profound impact on patients and drug development." Seeker Health complements EVERSANA's suite of patient-focused capabilities, which include service and support HUB models, specialty pharmacy distribution, and The Patient Experience Project, a full-service, patient-centric communications firm serving the healthcare industry. The Seeker PortalTM, a proprietary patient-lead management system that is pending patent, and PEPTrials, a patient-centered model for clinical trial recruitment and enrollment, will immediately work together to advance recruitment for current trials and assist clients in developing more patient-focused clinical research programs. "As people use technology in their daily lives, our industry has a tremendous opportunity to leverage technology to treat rare disease," added Jim Lang, chief executive officer, EVERSANA. "From patient databases and research panels to ongoing therapy adherence, EVERSANA is well-positioned to help our clients create value for all stakeholders, and most importantly, for their patients." Seeker Health will continue to operate from Palo Alto with Shpilberg leading the team and operations. EVERSANA, which unveiled its brand earlier this week, encompasses seven premier service providers including Dohmen Life Science Services, The Access Group, Alliance Life Sciences, Health Strategies Group, Triplefin, Patient Experience Project, and Seeker Health. Together as EVERSANA, the organization delivers a fully-integrated service portfolio to help life science leaders create value for key constituents across the product lifecycle. About EVERSANA EVERSANA is the leading independent provider of global services to the life science industry. The company's integrated solutions are rooted in the patient experience and span all stages of the product lifecycle to deliver long-term, sustainable value for patients, prescribers, channel partners and payers. The company serves more than 500 organizations, including innovative start-ups and established pharmaceutical companies to advance life science services for a healthier world. To learn more about EVERSANA, visit eversana.com or connect through LinkedIn and Twitter. SOURCE EVERSANA Related Links http://www.eversana.com NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- MediaPost recently named Fareportal, the travel technology company powering CheapOair and OneTravel, the winner of its OMMA Award for Best Blog. The company's CheapOair MilesAway travel blog was honored for celebrating diversity by creating inspirational and educational content on the achievements of persons from differing heritages. Fareportal's entry examined whether good business and being a good world citizen go hand-in-hand. The CheapOair MilesAway blogsite, supported by the brand's social media presence, tell that story, every day. From the beginning, encouraging diversity has been the bedrock of the company's strategy both inward facing, and through external messaging. Much of Fareportal's strength in sales of international flights has been attributed to its ongoing focus on multi-cultural themes such as Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, and Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month. Kathi Moore, Fareportal VP Branding & Communications commented, "CheapOair and OneTravel exist to make travel accessible to all. Our focus on multicultural representation and outreach stems from this reality. Travel at its core is all about experiencing what the world has to offer. We just help tell that story. I am extremely proud of the Fareportal Communications team." "The goal of our content is to spark conversations and actions and, so each day, we try to create content that our core audience segments care about," said Morlette Cowan, Creative Content Manager. "We want them to be inspired to travel but we're also hopeful that, through content, they'll see that we are a brand that cares about the special moments in their lives. If we can engage them enough to come back for more, then we're doing our jobs as storytellers." The OMMA Awards were created in 2004 by MediaPost to honor agencies and advertisers that push the potential of digital advertising. About Fareportal Fareportal is a travel technology company powering a next generation travel concierge service. Utilizing its innovative technology and company owned and operated global contact centers, Fareportal has built strong industry partnerships providing customers access to over 450 airlines, 1 million hotels, and hundreds of car rental companies around the globe. With a portfolio of consumer travel brands including CheapOair and OneTravel, Fareportal enables consumers to book online, on mobile apps for iOS and Android, by phone, or live chat. Fareportal provides its airline partners with access to a broad customer base that books high-yielding international travel and add-on ancillaries. SOURCE Fareportal Related Links http://www.fareportal.com That's why the Red Cross is working with community partners to install free smoke alarms, help families create home fire escape plans, and provide public fire prevention and safety resources through its Home Fire Campaign, a nationwide effort to reduce fire-related deaths and injuries. Since the campaign began in October 2014, it's reached more than 1.6 million people and is credited with saving 472 lives nationwide. WHAT YOU SHOULD DO Experts say that today's home fires burn faster than ever, leaving people with only as little as two minutes to escape a burning residence. But many mistakenly believe they have more time, according to a Red Cross survey last year. During Fire Prevention Week, the Red Cross urges everyone to take these lifesaving steps: Develop a fire escape plan with everyone in your household and practice it at least twice a year. Need help with your plan? Use these free Home Fire Campaign resources. Install smoke alarms in your home, on every level and outside each sleeping area. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year if required. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what they should do if they hear one. Make sure all household members know two ways to escape from every room. Establish a family meeting spot outside. 1.6 MILLION PEOPLE SERVEDAND GROWING Through the Home Fire Campaign, Red Cross volunteers and community partners continue to mount a nationwide effort across the country to save lives and curb fire-related injuries. Over the past four years, Red Cross volunteers and more than 4,500 partners have gone door-to-door in high-risk neighborhoods to deliver free preparedness resources through the campaign's Sound the Alarm canvassing events. So far, we have: Reached more than 1.6 million people through home visits in nearly 14,000 cities and towns Installed 1.4 million free smoke alarms Replaced more than 67,550 smoke alarm batteries Helped families make more than 514,200 fire escape plans Reached almost 1.2 million children through youth preparedness programs The Red Cross depends on the generous support of the American public to fulfill its crucial mission. If someone would like to help, please consider making a donation today by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 gift. About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross. SOURCE American Red Cross Related Links http://www.redcross.org WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The 50,000 Flight Attendants at 20 airlines represented by the Association of Flight AttendantsCWA, AFL-CIO (AFA), today cheered the passage of a five-year FAA Reauthorization Bill including a 10 hour minimum rest provision to combat Flight Attendant fatigue. The bill includes more Flight Attendant safety priorities including forever banning knives on planes, no voice calls on planes, and extending the smoking ban to e-cigarettes. AFA International President Sara Nelson issued the following statement: "Flight Attendants cheer the passage of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 with a provision to combat Flight Attendant fatigue by increasing minimum rest from 8 hours to 10 hours. This bill closes a safety loophole while improving Flight Attendant health and achieving equal minimum rest with our flight deck counterparts." "We applaud Chairman Shuster (R-PA), Ranking Member DeFazio (D-OR), Chairman LoBiondo (R-NJ), Ranking Member Larsen (D-WA), Chairman John Thune (R-SD), Ranking Member Bill Nelson (D-FL), Chairman Roy Blunt (R-MO), and Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-WA), for their leadership in writing this legislation so important for a safe and dependable U.S. aviation system." The final bill received overwhelming bipartisan support. AFA especially notes Congressional champions for Flight Attendant 10 hours minimum rest: House - Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ), Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA), Rep. Mike Capuano (D-MA), Rep. John Katko (R-NY), Rep. Cheri Bustos (D-IL), Rep. Dan Lipinski (D-IL), Rep. Michael Bost (R-IL), Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV), Rep. Paul Mitchell (R-MI), Rep. Brenda Lawrence (D-MI), Rep. Grace Napolitano (D-CA), Rep. David McKinley (R-WV), and Rep. Rodney Davis (R-IL). Senate - Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) originally introduced the language when she was in the House and continued advocacy in the Senate. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL), Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Senator Ed Markey (D-MA), and Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) have all since worked hard to ensure the rest language would be included in a final FAA bill. We thank Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) for weighing in when it especially counted to help us get our rest. "Over 100,000 Flight Attendants from around the country made calls, signed postcards, rallied, repeatedly visited congressional offices and took other actions to achieve this outcome today. This bill lifts standards for Flight Attendants across the industry and addresses serious safety, health and security issues in our workplace - the passenger cabin," Nelson concluded. Summary of AFA Safety Initiatives included in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018: 10-hours Minimum Rest and a FRMP for Flight Attendants No Knives on Planes Ever Again Ban of Voice Calls on Planes Emotional Support and Service Animal Standards Air Quality: Technologies to Combat Contaminated Bleed Air Protect Customer Service agents from assaults Cabin Cyber Security Vulnerabilities Secondary Cockpit Barriers Safe Transport of Lithium Batteries Study on Cabin Evacuation Certification (including cabin configuration) Increase Civil Penalties for Crew Interference from $25,000 to $35,000 to Banning Electronic Cigarette Smoking on Planes Congressional Focus on Addressing Sexual Misconduct on Planes Establish National Inflight Sexual Misconduct Task Force Require DOJ to Establish Reporting Process for Sexual Misconduct Prioritize Support for Flight Attendant Drug and Alcohol Program (FADAP) Requiring Privacy for Nursing in the Airport Evaluation and Update of Emergency Medical Kit Contents Oxygen Mask Design Study Develop Guidance for Non-Toxic Prevention of Transporting Insects Exit Row Evaluation and Verification Required notification of Insecticide use Promoting Women in Aviation TSA Authorization Continue Crewmember Self-Defense Training NTSB Reauthorization Improve Consumer Notification of Insecticide Use Expanded Human Trafficking Training for Airline Personnel Authorization of Essential Air Service The Association of Flight Attendants is the Flight Attendant union. Focused 100 percent on Flight Attendant issues, AFA has been the leader in advancing the Flight Attendant profession for 73 years. Serving as the voice for Flight Attendants in the workplace, in the aviation industry, in the media and on Capitol Hill, AFA has transformed the Flight Attendant profession by raising wages, benefits and working conditions. Nearly 50,000 Flight Attendants come together to form AFA, part of the 700,000-member strong Communications Workers of America (CWA), AFL-CIO. Visit us at www.afacwa.org. SOURCE Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA) Related Links http://www.afacwa.org PARIS, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida Realtors today signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) for 2018 with three highly respected French real estate organizations: FNAIM Aix Marseille Provence, FNAIM Grand Paris and the World Property Business Club it marks the first time the organizations have come together to sign this kind of an agreement. The MoUs establish the cooperation of all the real estate organizations in developing mutually beneficial relationships for their respective members. "As professionals in the real estate industry, we take pride in providing our knowledge and expertise to clients in Florida, France and throughout the world," said 2018 Florida Realtors President Christine Hansen. "Florida Realtors, FNAIM Aix Marseille Provence, FNAIM Grand Paris and the World Property Business Club share common goals. We look forward to continuing our partnerships and building more connections that increase trans-national business opportunities for all of our members." As part of these agreements, Florida Realtors and the three French real estate groups "affirm the value of international collaboration and agree to exchange information in the general field of real estate, promote professionalism in the real estate industry and engage in other activities that provide mutual benefits." According to the French leaders, establishing these relationships between Florida Realtors, FNAIM Aix Marseille Provence, FNAIM Grand Paris and the World Property Business Club enables all of the partnering groups to develop a greater mutual understanding and more opportunities for collaboration. The signing of the MoUs took place today at the Conference of Paris the International Economic Forum of the Americas at the OECD Conference Centre in Paris, France. Florida Realtors 2018 President-Elect Eric Sain attended the signing along with President Hansen. Also present at the event were Andre Perrissel, signing on behalf of FNAIM Aix Marseille Provence; Michel Patero, president and signatory for FNAIM Grand Paris; Gilles Ricour de Bourgies, general manager and signatory for the World Property Business Club; Adam Scott, FNAIM Provence International Committee; and Maria Grulich, Florida Realtors director of global business. Florida Realtors serves as the voice for real estate in Florida. It provides programs, services, continuing education, research and legislative representation to its 180,000 members in 54 boards/associations. Florida Realtors Media Center website is available at http://media.floridarealtors.org. SOURCE Florida Realtors Related Links http://www.media.floridarealtors.org CHICAGO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The level of knowledge financial planners have about their clients directly correlates to their potential for success, according to a new "know your client" benchmark survey. The Financial Planning Association (FPA), the country's largest membership association for CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP) professionals and those who support the financial planning process, unveiled the results of the study today at its 2018 FPA Annual Conference in Chicago. The study, developed in partnership with Capital Preferences and T. Rowe Price, sought to identify the behaviors and techniques financial planning professionals can and should leverage to know their clients, and provide a roadmap for planners to evolve their client understanding approach. These "know your client" behaviors range from how financial planners understand client goals and how they manage family dynamics to how they apply insights from understanding clients to deliver a better client experience. Key findings include: Greater satisfaction. Financial planners who engage in leading "know your client" behaviors gain deep personal fulfillment from 60 percent more of their client relationships. Financial planners who engage in leading "know your client" behaviors gain deep personal fulfillment from 60 percent more of their client relationships. Higher referrals and growth. Financial planners who engage in leading "know your client" behaviors see 56 percent higher client willingness to recommend and 72 percent higher net client growth rate. Financial planners who engage in leading "know your client" behaviors see 56 percent higher client willingness to recommend and 72 percent higher net client growth rate. Delivering value by pinpointing "say-do" misalignments. Planners who actively identify misalignment between what clients say and what their behaviors show and constructively resolve those gaps with their clients report higher success. The survey found that planners who pinpointed this disconnect had almost triple the client growth rate compared to those who did not (30 percent vs. 11 percent), double the referral rate (18 percent vs. 9 percent) and more fulfilling relationships (75 percent vs. 60 percent). Planners who actively identify misalignment between what clients say and what their behaviors show and constructively resolve those gaps with their clients report higher success. The survey found that planners who pinpointed this disconnect had almost triple the client growth rate compared to those who did not (30 percent vs. 11 percent), double the referral rate (18 percent vs. 9 percent) and more fulfilling relationships (75 percent vs. 60 percent). Family matters. Highly proficient "know your client" planners spend more time directly engaging their primary clients' partners and adult children. They are 40 percent more likely to discuss aging-related lifestyle transitions and cognitive decline with their clients and their families. Highly proficient "know your client" planners spend more time directly engaging their primary clients' partners and adult children. They are 40 percent more likely to discuss aging-related lifestyle transitions and cognitive decline with their clients and their families. Picking a focus. Financial planners who define a specific client audience tend to be more proficient in "know your client" behaviors and see stronger outcomes. This suggests that planners who focus and go deeper with a single client type can use that client understanding to more efficiently attract similar clients. "This study clearly re-defines what it means to 'know your client' and how understanding their behaviors is highly correlated with solidifying strong, lasting client relationships built on a foundation of understanding and trust," said 2018 FPA President Frank Pare, CFP. "In addition to benchmarking, this study provides valuable data and intelligence that helps financial planners thrive in today's era of more empowered and savvy clients. This is a step forward for the financial planning community and will enrich efforts to educate those planners who are committed to providing the best possible service to clients." "Having benchmarked planners on over 80 'know your client' behaviors, methods and competencies, we now know quantitatively what best practice looks like," commented Patrick Spenner, study co-author and CMO of Capital Preferences. "We can see in the data that 'know your client' isn't a discipline that's sitting stillnew technology and tools are clearly creating more surface area for advisors to create value with their clients." "The results of the 'Know Your Client' study support our view that advisors who focus on deepening relationships with multiple family members can increase client loyalty," said Jean Dunn, vice president, Client Loyalty Insights, T. Rowe Price. "We look forward to continuing to collaborate with FPA and Capital Preferences to bring actionable insights to market that will help advisors build their businesses and ultimately better serve their clients." Methodology and Ongoing Survey Participation The survey findings are based on 311 global responses from client-facing financial advisers and planners. The geographic breakout of completed surveys included 126 responses from the United States, 134 from Australia and 51 from New Zealand. The benchmarking survey is re-opened through November 15 for any financial planners interested in contributing their insight. Participants will receive a customized report that enables them to benchmark their "know your client" methods against those of their peers, as well as the greater advisory community. All client-facing advisors and planners are invited to take the survey: click here to take the survey. For more information about the survey results, please click here. About the Financial Planning Association The Financial Planning Association (FPA) is the principal professional organization for CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM (CFP) professionals, educators, financial services professionals and students who are committed to elevating the profession that transforms lives through the power of financial planning. Through a collaborative effort to provide members with tools and resources for professional education, business support, advocacy and community, FPA is the indispensable resource in the advancement of today's CFP professional. Learn more about FPA at www.OneFPA.org and follow on Twitter at twitter.com/fpassociation. About Capital Preferences Capital Preferences offers financial service firms the most advanced technology for understanding customers, leveraging decision science and behavioural economics. Its gamified profiling platform allows financial professionals to improve client experience, while gaining unique insights into product suitability and client behavior. Capital Preferences is the creator of TrueProfile, the only tool for financial advisors that reveals their clients' true risk tolerance, loss aversion and decision consistency as defined by economic science. For more information about Capital Preferences and True Profile, visit www.trueprofile.com and follow on Twitter at twitter.com/TrueProfileSays. About T. Rowe Price Founded in 1937, Baltimore-based T. Rowe Price Group, Inc. is a global investment management organization with $1.09 trillion in assets under management as of Aug. 31, 2018. The organization provides a broad array of mutual funds, subadvisory services, and separate account management for individual and institutional investors, retirement plans, and financial intermediaries. The company also offers sophisticated investment planning and guidance tools. T. Rowe Price's disciplined, risk-aware investment approach focuses on diversification, style consistency, and fundamental research. For more information, visit troweprice.com, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook. SOURCE Financial Planning Association Related Links http://www.OneFPA.org "During the past 90 years, Gallagher has expanded greatly and adapted to the dramatic transformations in society and in the business world. What hasn't changed for us is our unwavering focus on clients and giving back to the communities in which we live and work. This is our rich heritage and in our DNA," said J. Patrick "Pat" Gallagher, Jr., Gallagher Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. "True to our values and culture, it was fitting to mark this special milestone by supporting communities around the globe through volunteerism and giving to charities and causes near and dear to our employees and clients." Some volunteer examples include: 140 students in India were provided dictionaries; in the United Kingdom, more than $50,000 dollars was raised for cancer research during a 170 mile bicycle ride; hundreds of books and essential supplies were donated to Rwandan students; in Australia, employees participated in "Daffodil Day" with the Cancer Council; and more than 200 gifts were collected for a toy drive and delivered to Goodwill Industries in Boston, Mass. Today, in conjunction with the Chicago Cubs partnership, Gallagher fulfilled its 90th year of volunteering and giving goal at Gallagher Way where Chicago Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts, former Cubs player Ryne Sandberg and Pat Gallagher joined more than 500 Gallagher employees in a neighborhood beautification project in the Wrigleyville neighborhood. "My deepest appreciation and admiration to all of our colleagues who helped make a difference and exceed our goal of 90,000 hours this past year. It is through their dedication and actions that Gallagher's unique culture and enduring values are evident in communities around the world both in how we conduct business and serve those in need. As we look forward to the next 90 years, we are confident this strong foundation and our passion for client success will create new opportunities for communities and organizations of all sizesand we're just getting started," said Gallagher. About Gallagher Gallagher (NYSE: AJG) is a global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. The company has operations in 34 countries and offers client-service capabilities in more than 150 countries around the world through a network of correspondent brokers and consultants. Media: Kelli Murray Director of Public Relations 630-285-4140/ [email protected] SOURCE Gallagher Related Links http://www.ajg.com Global Companion Diagnostics Market to Reach $4.1 Billion by 2025 LONDON, Oct. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In the era of precision medicine, the healthcare industry is focused on the development of advanced biomarker-based diagnostics to deliver improved patient care and enhance treatment outcome.The increasing prevalence of chronic disorders and improving regulatory framework for supporting drug-diagnostic co-development models are promoting the growth of the companion diagnostics market. Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/5580323 Thereby, the advent of precision medicine approach and development of precision diagnostics are improving quality of life of the patients and reducing economic, societal, and clinical burden. Presently, companion diagnostic (CDx) solutions are developed based on four technologies which include Immunohistochemistry (IHC), In Situ Hybridization (ISH), Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).Till date, the healthcare industry has witnessed a number of successful procedures for parallel development of drug and its companion diagnostic, but mostly for oncology. However, successful commercialization and approval of companion diagnostics for multiple cancer types, including lung cancer, breast cancer, leukemia, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, ovarian cancer, and melanoma, have further drawn the attention of several pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies to venture into this lucrative market by developing CDx solutions for non-oncology indications, including neurodegenerative diseases, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Further, several players are now focusing on the development of multiple biomarker-based CDx development, which is anticipated to enhance the growth of NGS-based companion diagnostics market. The purpose of this study is to gain a holistic view of the companion diagnostics market in terms of various influencing factors, such as recent trends, regulatory frameworks, and technological advancements in the market.The scope of this report constitutes a detailed study of the technologies associated with the global companion diagnostics market. The market has been segmented into 'technology', 'indication', and 'region'.The report presents the reader with an opportunity to unlock comprehensive insights with respect to the market and helps in forming well-informed strategic decisions. The research uncovers some of the substantial parameters that must be taken into consideration before entering into the market. This research report aims at answering various aspects of the global companion diagnostics market with the help of the key factors driving the market, the restraints, and the challenges that can possibly inhibit the overall market growth, and the current growth opportunities that are going to shape the future trajectory of the market expansion.The report includes an in-depth examination of the key players and recent developments taking place in this market. Moreover, the report includes chapters on market dynamics (market drivers, opportunities, and challenges) and industry analysis as well. The research study highlights the factors governing the industry attractiveness with Porter's Five Forces for a comprehensive understanding of the global companion diagnostics market. Moreover, the study includes detailed product mapping, market estimation, and analysis of key trends in multiple geographical regions, growth of companion diagnostics market in each region for different cancer types, and the key strategies and developments by the prominent companion diagnostics manufacturers. The answers to the following key questions can be derived from this report: What are the major market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global companion diagnostics market? What are the underlying structures resulting in the emerging trends within the companion diagnostics industry? What was the market value of the leading segments and sub-segments of the global companion diagnostics systems market in 2017? How will each segment of the global companion diagnostics market grow during the forecast period and what will be the revenue generated by each of the segments by the end of 2025? What are the influencing factors that may affect the market share of the key players? How will the industry evolve during the forecast period 2018- 2025? What are the key developmental strategies which are being implemented by the key players to sustain in this competitive market? What are the key technologies in companion diagnostics market? What are the major benefits of each technology? How has the market been segmented on the basis of indication? Which indication is dominating the global companion diagnostics market and its reason? What is the market share of the companies by CDx technologies which include Immunohistochemistry (IHC), In Situ Hybridization (ISH), Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)? Who are the key manufacturers in the companion diagnostics market and what are their contributions? What is the scope of each companion diagnostic technology in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific? What are the key regulatory implications in developed and developing regions for companion diagnostics? What is the growth potential of companion diagnostics in each region? Which companion diagnostic technology is having most promising growth and in which indication type? The key manufacturers who have been contributing significantly to the companion diagnostics market include Abbott Laboratories, Agilent Technologies, Inc., ARUP Laboratories, bioMerieux S.A., Danaher Corporation, F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Illumina, Inc., Invivoscribe Technologies, Inc., MolecularMD Corporation, Myriad Genetics, Inc., QIAGEN N.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., among others. Executive Summary The global healthcare expenditure was valued approximately $7 trillion in 2015 and is expected to reach over $8.5 trillion by 2020, owing to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory diseases, among others. In addition, the rise in global geriatric population and the increase in incidence of communicable diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and infectious diseases, among others are escalating the economic, social, and clinical burden, across the globe, thereby increasing pricing pressure on the pharmaceutical as well as diagnostic companies. Acknowledging the criticality of the situation, government bodies of several nations have been restructuring their regulatory framework and norms to help companies in reducing treatment costs and expand accessibility to advance healthcare solutions. On the other hand, the healthcare companies are trying to reduce the unnecessary healthcare expenditure by enabling novel treatment approaches and developing cost-effective products based on advanced technologies. Advent of precision medicine, a patient-centric treatment approach based on biomarker study, is perceived to be promising in driving a paradigm shift in the healthcare industry. This biomarker-based, targeted medication would not only facilitate in eliminating the uncertainty of trial and error method of medications, but also eliminate unnecessary healthcare expenditure. In the era of precision medicine, the number of commercialized predictive biomarker assays has increased tremendously, especially in case of chronic diseases, to facilitate the development of targeted therapeutics.These biomarker-based assays, known as companion diagnostics (CDx), not only aid in parallel development of targeted drugs, but also provide essential information for patient stratification to enable effective and safe use of corresponding treatment. Till date, healthcare industry has witnessed several successful drug-diagnostic co-developments mostly for oncology.However, successful commercialization and approval of CDx for multiple cancer types, including lung cancer, breast cancer, leukemia, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, ovarian cancer, and melanoma, have further drawn attention of several pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies to venture into this lucrative market by developing non-oncology CDx solutions, especially for indications such as neurodegenerative diseases, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, and cardiovascular diseases, thereby enhancing the growth of global CDx market. The global companion diagnostics market is expected to reach $4.1 billion by 2025. With increasing demand for NGS-based companion diagnostics, the global CDx market is expected to witness double digit growth rate during the forecast period 2018-2025. In addition, PCR-based companion diagnostics is expected to be dominating among the other technology-based products, in 2025. In 2017, companion diagnostics for lung cancer was responsible for a 27.20% share of the global market value. The purpose of the study is to gain a holistic view of the global companion diagnostics market in terms of various factors such as recent trends and technological advancements, influencing the market.The scope of this report is centered upon conducting a detailed study of the products allied with the companion diagnostics market, which includes various technology-based products such as Immunohistochemistry (IHC), In Situ Hybridization (ISH), Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). However, the market estimation only comprises manufacturers of companion diagnostics.The companion diagnostics market is segmented into three different parts namely technology, indication, and region. The global market value was estimated using these three different approaches and was validated with one another. These segments are further segmented into several sub-segments to ease the market estimation and to gain a holistic view of the market. Based on the region, the global companion diagnostics market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest-of-the-World (RoW). North America is the leading contributor to the global companion diagnostics market and was responsible for a 52.53% share of the global market values in 2017. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at a CAGR of 32.06% during the forecast period 2018-2025. The key companion diagnostics manufacturers who have been contributing significantly to the companion diagnostics market include Abbott Laboratories, Agilent Technologies, Inc., ARUP Laboratories, bioMerieux S.A., Danaher Corporation, F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Illumina, Inc., Invivoscribe Technologies, Inc., MolecularMD Corporation, Myriad Genetics, Inc., QIAGEN N.V., and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., among others. Countries Covered North America The U.S. Canada Europe The U.K. Germany France Italy Spain Rest-of-Europe Asia-Pacific China Japan India Australia Singapore Rest-of-APAC Rest-of-the-World Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/5580323 About Reportbuyer Reportbuyer is a leading industry intelligence solution that provides all market research reports from top publishers For more information: Sarah Smith Research Advisor at Reportbuyer.com Email: [email protected] Tel: +1 (718) 213 4904 Website: www.reportbuyer.com SOURCE ReportBuyer Related Links http://www.reportbuyer.com NEW YORK, Oct. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- LaaS is Set to Alter the LED Lighting Business Model; Human-centric Lighting Applications Will Drive the LED Market by 2024 Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p04805995 The global LED lighting market is highly competitive and is driven by the demand for energy-efficient lighting, advanced lighting control, reduced prices and increasing awareness on the potential health benefits to human beings.LED manufacturers are adopting new business models to combat the drastic fall in prices of LED light sources. The global LED lighting market was estimated at $52,139 million in 2017, and grew by 10.2% from 2016. Research Scope This study provides a detailed analysis, covering seven application segments (residential, retail, architectural, outdoor, office, industrial, and hospitality) in five regions (North America, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa, and Asia-Pacific). The study also focuses on the technology roadmap, distribution channel by application, price trends, and growth opportunities and provides an in-depth breakdown of revenue and competitive landscape by region. Key Issues Addressed What is the anticipated growth of the market between 2017 and 2024? What external forces affect market growth and how significant is their impact? What is the technology roadmap for LED lighting in this decade? What is the global average pricing trend of a LED light source and what influences pricing? Who are the key market participants and what are their competitive strengths? What are the macro and micro trends and their implications on the global LED lighting market? Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p04805995 About Reportlinker ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place. __________________________ Contact Clare: [email protected] US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001 SOURCE Reportlinker Related Links http://www.reportlinker.com TORRANCE, Calif., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Security awareness training startup Habitu8 continues to light up the industry with unique, engaging, and humorous videos. Adding Debra Farber's expertise is a strategic move and will be integral in Habitu8's effort to blaze a trail regarding privacy and awareness. Habitu8's CEO Chad Loder had this to say: "I'm thrilled to welcome Debra to Habitu8's advisory board. She brings a wealth of expertise in privacy and public policy, and she's been an active champion for diversity and inclusion in security. We're looking forward to growing and accomplishing Habitu8's mission with Debra's guidance and support." So who is Debra Farber? Not only can Debra see around corners, but she's also prepared to lead the next big change before anyone else. After completing law school, she jumped headfirst into a dual-focused career in privacy and information security, having spent nearly 15 years in those fields with roles at Visa, IBM, TrustArc, and several startups. Additionally, Debra co-founded the non-profit project, Women in Security and Privacy (WISP), and continues to advocate for the advancement of women. She is currently Senior Director of Privacy Strategy at BigID, helping to bring forth a new wave of privacy and data protection technology to support enterprise data discovery, inventory, and mapping. Habitu8 Chief Product Offer Jason Hoenich is also extremely excited to welcome Debra to the Habitu8 family. "Debra will provide key insight and guidance for our new privacy-focused videos. It's such an important topic and we want to make sure we're approaching it with respect and intention." Hoenich admitted he had initially confused privacy and piracy. "I was really looking forward to having a pirate on the team. But, someday perhaps. #goals" "Debra Farber will be a key advisor to Habitu8's growth and story over the next year. Her continued advocacy for diversity and inclusion aligns with Habitu8's goals and we are excited as hell to have her guidance and support," said Hoenich. Debra will also be co-hosting Habitu8's October webinar on Privacy Awareness, you can register for it here. Photo(s): https://www.prlog.org/12732777 Press release distributed by PRLog SOURCE Habitu8 Related Links https://www.habitu8.io SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Cruise and General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) announced today that they have joined forces with Honda (TYO: 7267) to pursue the shared goal of transforming mobility through the large-scale deployment of autonomous vehicle technology. Honda will work jointly with Cruise and General Motors to fund and develop a purpose-built autonomous vehicle for Cruise that can serve a wide variety of use cases and be manufactured at high volume for global deployment. In addition, Cruise, General Motors and Honda will explore global opportunities for commercial deployment of the Cruise network. Honda will contribute approximately $2 billion over 12 years to these initiatives, which, together with a $750 million equity investment in Cruise, brings its total commitment to the project to $2.75 billion. In addition to the recently announced SoftBank investments, this transaction brings the post-money valuation of Cruise to $14.6 billion. "This is the logical next step in General Motors and Honda's relationship, given our joint work on electric vehicles, and our close integration with Cruise," said General Motors Chairman and CEO Mary Barra. "Together, we can provide Cruise with the world's best design, engineering and manufacturing expertise, and global reach to establish them as the leader in autonomous vehicle technology while they move to deploy self-driving vehicles at scale." "Honda chose to collaborate with Cruise and General Motors based on their leadership in autonomous and electric vehicle technology and our shared vision of a zero-emissions and zero-collision world," said Honda Executive Vice President and Representative Director COO Seiji Kuraishi. "We will complement their strengths through our expertise in space efficiency and design to develop the most desirable and effective shared autonomous vehicle." "With the backing of General Motors, SoftBank and now Honda, Cruise is deeply resourced to accomplish our mission to safely deploy autonomous technology across the globe," said Cruise CEO Kyle Vogt. "The Honda partnership paves the way for massive scale by bringing a beautiful, efficient, and purpose-built vehicle to our network of shared autonomous vehicles." More details on the benefits of the partnership to Cruise can be found here. General Motors is a global company committed to delivering safer, better and more sustainable ways for people to get around. General Motors, its subsidiaries and its joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Holden, Baojun, Wuling and Jiefang brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety and security services, and Maven, its personal mobility brand, can be found at http://www.gm.com. Honda Motor Co. (NYSE: HMC), Honda designs, manufactures and markets automobiles, motorcycles, power products and aviation products worldwide. A global leader in powertrain and electromotive technologies, Honda produces nearly 30 million engines annually for its three product lines. Honda and its partners build products in more than 60 manufacturing plants in 27 countries, employing more than 208,000 associates globally. General Motors Forward-looking statements: This press release and related comments by management may include forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations about possible future events and thus are inherently uncertain. Our actual results may differ materially from forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors, including: (1) our ability to deliver new products, services and experiences that attract new, and are desired by existing, customers and to effectively compete in autonomous, ride-sharing and transportation as a service; (2) sales of crossovers, SUVs and full-size pick-up trucks; (3) our ability to reduce the costs associated with the manufacture and sale of electric vehicles; (4) the volatility of global sales and operations; (5) our significant business in China which subjects us to unique operational, competitive and regulatory risks; (6) our joint ventures, which we cannot operate solely for our benefit and over which we may have limited control; (7) changes in government leadership and laws (including tax laws), economic tensions between governments and changes in international trade policies, new barriers to entry and changes to or withdrawals from free trade agreements, changes in foreign exchange rates, economic downturns in foreign countries, differing local product preferences and product requirements, compliance with U.S. and foreign countries' export controls and economic sanctions, differing labor regulations and difficulties in obtaining financing in foreign countries; (8) our dependence on our manufacturing facilities; (9) the ability of suppliers to deliver parts, systems and components without disruption and on schedule; (10) prices of raw materials; (11) our highly competitive industry; (12) the possibility that competitors may independently develop products and services similar to ours despite our intellectual property rights; (13) security breaches and other disruptions to our vehicles, information technology networks and systems; (14) compliance with laws and regulations applicable to our industry, including those regarding fuel economy and emissions; (15) costs and risks associated with litigation and government investigations; (16) the cost and effect on our reputation of product safety recalls and alleged defects in products and services; (17) our ability to successfully and cost-efficiently restructure operations in various countries, including Korea, with minimal disruption to our supply chain and operations, globally; (18) our ability to realize production efficiencies and to achieve reductions in costs; (19) our ability to develop captive financing capability through GM Financial; (20) significant increases in pension expense or projected pension contributions; and (21) our ability to consummate the announced transactions on the expected terms and within the anticipated time period. A further list and description of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, and our subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. GM cautions readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. GM undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements. SOURCE General Motors Related Links http://media.gm.com MILWAUKEE, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Jewish Museum Milwaukee will open its new originally curated exhibit, Blacklist: The Hollywood Red Scare, on view October 12, 2018February 10, 2019. Blacklist explores the personal and national impact of the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) and the Hollywood Blacklist through the biographies and accounts of blacklistees, films that were considered subversive by the FBI, HUAC hearing footage and more. The people regarded as "Un-American" in HUAC's blacklist were disproportionately of minority backgroundsJews and immigrants. The exhibit explores the factors that led to the Hollywood Blacklist, a time in which these first amendment freedoms and what it meant to be patriotic became central in a cultural battle, one that continues to replay in American politics today. "After three years in the making, Jewish Museum Milwaukee is looking forward to finally sharing this exhibit with the public," said Ellie Gettinger, Jewish Museum Milwaukee's exhibit curator and education director. "Blacklist offers a fascinating look into a fearful time in our country's history, and provides the opportunity for visitors to compare ways history continues to repeat itself." The gritty, dark feel of the exhibit sends museum-goers back to the tense and anxious era of Hollywood's Red Scare in the 1940s-50s. Both the process of being blacklisted and getting off the blacklist were shrouded in mystery and had real consequences for people caught in the crosshairs. Those who were implicated faced the infamous question, "Are you or have you ever been a member of the Communist Party?" and suffered personal consequences: mental anguish, bankruptcy, unemployment, illness and even death. Blacklist seeks to answer many key questions still relevant todayfrom the role of media in reporting on government checks and balances, government overreach, civil liberties and first amendment rights, the exhibit sheds light on a wide array of issues that affected the historical and political climate of this era, which ultimately made the Hollywood Blacklist possible. Blacklist is sponsored by Joel and Caran Quadracci and The Windhover Foundation, Marianne and Sheldon B. Lubar, Brico Fund and an Anonymous Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation. Following its first display at Jewish Museum Milwaukee, the exhibit will travel to other museums across the region and country. Programming surrounding Blacklist will explore accounts of Hollywood blacklistees through films and presentations from prominent speakers, and analyze the film industry's response to government pressure that led to the Blacklist, which cost hundreds of writers, directors, actors and many others their livelihoods. For a complete listing of programming and additional details, visit www.jewishmuseummilwaukee.org or call (414) 390-5730. About Jewish Museum Milwaukee: Jewish Museum Milwaukee is a program of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation, and is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of the Jewish people in southeastern Wisconsin and celebrating the continuum of Jewish heritage and culture. The history of American Jews is rooted in thousands of years of searching for freedom and equality. We are committed to sharing this story, the life lessons it brings with it, and building bridges between people of diverse backgrounds. By telling personal and local stories about issues that can be overwhelming in scale, JMM inspires empathy and deepens understanding of not only the Jewish people, but also others who have gone through similar experiences. Contact: Katie Hall (414) 443-0850 x110 [email protected] SOURCE Jewish Museum Milwaukee Related Links http://www.jewishmuseummilwaukee.org CHICAGO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- JLL (NYSE: JLL) today announced an agreement to acquire ValuD Consulting, a leading provider of IBM software integration and consulting services in the United States and India. The transaction significantly enhances JLL's ability to bring the next generation of technology to its clients through future-focused innovation and deepened expertise in IBM's TRIRIGA*, Maximo** and Watson Internet of Things (IoT) services.*** Traci Doane Gopi Latpate The acquisition supports JLL's commitment to lead the industry and its clients through digital transformation. It will add 300 highly skilled technology expertsmany recruited, trained and certified through ValuD's unique university partnershipsto JLL's specialized Technology Solutions team around the world. This enhanced expertise will provide clients with market-leading technology systems that enable faster, more informed real estate decisions and improved business performance. "Adding this depth of specialist talent will give our clients access to the best technology expertise and products," said Traci Doane, President, JLL Technology Solutions. "Joining forces with ValuD gives us the exciting opportunity to expand our expertise in IBM digital solutions and more fully explore emerging technologies that include artificial intelligence, cognitive buildings and predictive analytics." ValuD is a prestigious Gold Accredited IBM Business Partner for the TRIRIGA solution. It was founded in 2009 by Gopi Latpate, who has been involved in the IBM TRIRIGA platform and application since its inception. The company, which has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest growing privately held companies in the United States for the last four years, is owned by Latpate, who is Chief Executive and Technology Officer, and Scott Williamson, Chief Commercial Officer. Both Latpate and Williamson will assume leadership roles in the IBM Practice of JLL's Technology Solutions business. "By joining JLL, we're bringing together two growth companies with a common culture," Latpate said. "We wanted to find the right partner who has the same drive and is serving the same client baseJLL was a perfect match. Combining our talent, tools and knowledge will drive value for our clients." The ValuD acquisition, which is expected to close in November subject to customary closing conditions, is another step forward in JLL's ongoing digital transformation. In July, it announced the appointment of former Google executive Vinay Goel who joined as global Chief Digital Product Officer. Previously, JLL launched JLL Spark, a global division dedicated to identifying and delivering new technology-driven real estate service offerings. Recently, JLL Spark announced the creation of its $100 million Global Venture Fund for investment in companies innovating in proptech. JLL's Technology Solutions offers clients end-to-end technology solutions to help drive better business results from their real estate. It provides advisory, implementation and support around corporate real estate applications, integrated workplace management system (IWMS), business intelligence & analytics and IoT. * IBM TRIRIGA is an IWMS that manages the lifecycle of a facility. ** IBM Maximo is an Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) tool used for managing building operations and processes. *** Watson IoT is a fully managed, cloud-hosted service designed to simplify Internet of Things development. About JLL JLL (NYSE: JLL) is a leading professional services firm that specializes in real estate and investment management. Our vision is to reimagine the world of real estate, creating rewarding opportunities and amazing spaces where people can achieve their ambitions. In doing so, we will build a better tomorrow for our clients, our people and our communities. JLL is a Fortune 500 company with nearly 300 corporate offices, operations in over 80 countries and a global workforce of 86,000 as of June 30, 2018. JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. For further information, visit jll.com. Connect with us https://www.linkedin.com/company/jll https://www.facebook.com/jll https://twitter.com/jll https://plus.google.com/+joneslanglasalle Contact: Joanne Bestall Phone: +1 312 228 2344 Email: [email protected] SOURCE JLL Related Links http://jll.com "We're so proud of the pro bono work Kyle has done in helping fight against widespread discrimination grounded in stereotypes," said Jonathan Baum, Katten's Pro Bono Services Director. "Kyle is representing clients who need financial assistance in securing homes through use of a federal subsidy and have been wrongly turned away by rental agents and landlords. This is not only illegal in Chicago but also can have a ripple effect in continuing segregation in the city and limiting access to neighborhoods with better schools and other services." Chicago Lawyers' Committee presented the award on Tuesday to Finnegan, a Litigation associate at Katten, during the organization's annual benefit "Bring Justice Home." The event, held at the Theater on the Lake, commemorated the 50th anniversary of the federal Fair Housing Act and this year featured former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Julian Castro as the keynote speaker. Pro bono is a core value at Katten. The firm partners with Chicago Lawyers' Committee among other organizations and receives client referrals for pro bono legal representation. Finnegan recently represented two housing choice voucher holders who were refused housing based on their source of income in three separate matters before the Chicago Commission on Human Relations. The Chicago Fair Housing Ordinance prohibits discrimination against people who use a housing choice voucher as a source of income to support the rental or purchase of a housing unit in Chicago. In each case, a single mother with a housing voucher was turned away from applying to rent an apartment unit by a real estate agent. While both women were able to find other places to live, Finnegan successfully negotiated financial settlements for twice to triple the amount of the average award for damages in housing discrimination cases in Chicago, and secured agreements for the rental agencies to specify in online rental ads that vouchers are accepted and for rental agents to undergo training on housing voucher rules. "Kyle was able to secure impressive settlements due to his hard work researching the issue, his remarkable negotiation skills and effective litigation style," said Barbara Barreno-Paschall, senior staff attorney with Chicago Lawyers' Committee's Housing Opportunity Project, which investigates complaints of housing discrimination throughout the Chicago metropolitan area, among other matters. "His empathy for his clients' situations combined with his amazing can-do attitude, energy and positivity make it a joy to work with him." Katten is a full-service law firm with more than 600 attorneys in locations across the United States and in London and Shanghai. Clients seeking sophisticated, high-value legal services turn to Katten for counsel locally, nationally and internationally. The firm's core areas of practice include corporate, financial services, insolvency and restructuring, litigation, real estate, environmental and workplace safety, commercial finance, intellectual property, structured finance and securitization, and trusts and estates. Katten represents public and private companies in numerous industries, including a third of the Fortune 100, as well as a number of government and nonprofit organizations and individuals. For more information, visit www.kattenlaw.com. SOURCE Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP Related Links http://www.kattenlaw.com WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) hosted its Inaugural Public Policy Summit entitled The Transformation of American Kidney Care, on September 28 29, 2018 at The Hall of States Building in Washington, D.C., a few steps from the U.S. Congress. Founded in 1969, the AAKP is the oldest and largest, fully independent kidney patient organization in the U.S.A and is a nationally recognized leader in patient education, promotion of innovation and defense of kidney patient care choice. The Summit is the first of multiple national events related to AAKP's 50th Anniversary year of celebration. The Summit, conducted under AAKP's Center for Patient Research and Education, highlighted key efforts designed to accelerate innovation in kidney diagnostics, devices, biologics, transplantation and care delivery. Numerous new private sector developments as well as initiatives involving the Federal government were discussed including the Kidney Precision Medicine Project (https://kpmp.org) at the National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases as well as the KidneyX initiative (www.kidneyx.org) underway at the U.S. Department and Health and Human Services in collaboration with the American Society of Nephrology. The Summit was opened by U.S. Department of Labor Chief of Staff Nicholas C. Geale, who gave remarks highlighting the recent decision by U.S. Secretary of Labor Alex Acosta to extend the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), including job protections, to living organ donors. The Secretary's actions have been enthusiastically applauded by the kidney community and represents the elimination of a major barrier to transplantation that potential donors, patients and transplant professionals have worked to eliminate for over a decade. Geale is a former Director of Oversight and Investigations for the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee. Paul T. Conway, AAKP President, transplant recipient and a former Chief of Staff for the U.S. Department of Labor, stated, "We are appreciative to all Summit participants, and especially grateful to Labor Secretary Alex Acosta for extending FMLA coverage to living organ donors and removing a substantial barrier to transplantation. Kidney patients, exercising their freedom to demand care choice and treatments that better align to their aspirations, are the single greatest driving force behind medical research and innovation. AAKP proudly aligns itself with leaders in all sectors who have the courage and willingness to question the status quo in an effort to improve kidney care." Summit speakers from the private sector included: Peter Maag, CEO of CareDx; Joe Muldoon, CEO of FAST BioMedical; Dr. Jeff Lawson, CEO of Humacyte; Michelle Machuca, Director of Marketing and Reimbursement of TVA Medical, Dr. Bill Fissell Medical Director of The Kidney Project; Tricia D'Antonio, RPH, MS, MBA, BCGP, President of Professional Affairs of the Gerontological Society of American and Vice Chair of the Patient Access to Pain Relief Coalition; and Melissa West, Project Manager of Kidney Health Initiative. Dr. Bruce Culleton, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of CVS Specialty discussed CVS plans, announced earlier this year (https://cvshealth.com/newsroom/press-releases/cvs-health-announces-plans-focus-kidney-care-and-dialysis-treatment), to offer kidney patients greater care choice through patient-centered options aimed at increasing pre-emptive transplants and home dialysis. Federal representatives presenting at the Summit included representatives from the National Institute of Health, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; the Department of Health and Human Services; the Center for Disease Control and Prevention; the Food and Drug Administration; Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation; and the Patient Centered Research Outcomes Institute. "As the leading independent national patient organization in the renal community, AAKP was uniquely positioned to host this Policy Summit. In addition to our esteemed panelists, we were pleased to have an audience comprised of top patient advocates, medical professionals, policy-influencers from across Washington, D.C. along with others committed to substantive innovation. AAKP will soon make the full proceedings available to patients and the kidney community via social media along with published summary Summit highlights," stated Richard Knight, AAKP Vice President, Chair of Public Policy and transplant recipient. AAKP patients helped gain Congressional passage of the End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Act in 1972, which has saved millions lives for those suffering from kidney failure. The Inaugural Public Policy Summit was professionally filmed by Briar Patch Media for AAKP and highlights will be made available throughout the coming months via AAKP social media (Facebook @kidneypatient and Twitter @kidneypatients) and on the AAKP website (www.aakp.org). The Summit was sponsored by patient donations from across the country, as well as corporate sponsors including: CareDx; Amgen, Inc.; Hansa Medical; Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc.; Relypsa; Rockwell Medical; and TVA Medical. MEDIA CONTACT: Deborah Pelaez, Marketing and Communications Manager [email protected] (813) 400-2394 SOURCE American Association of Kidney Patients Related Links http://www.aakp.org LAS VEGAS, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ (Commercial UAV Expo) -- Kittyhawk , the market leader in enterprise drone operations software, today announced a strategic investment from The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE: TRV). The investment will help the company bring unified drone operations to new markets. Travelers has been a pioneer in adopting the use of drones within the insurance industry. The company was one of the first to integrate drone operations into its claim inspections when it launched its drone program in 2016 and conducted its first large-scale deployment after Hurricane Matthew. Today, Travelers has nearly 600 dedicated Claim professionals that are FAA-certified drone pilots. As the drone program has grown within Travelers, so too has the opportunity to leverage the data and the task of managing compliance and safety requirements. Kittyhawk has supported the growth of Travelers' drone operation by streamlining the data, hardware and software into one single system of record. "Using drones to assess property damage enables us to enhance our customers' experience, adjust claims more quickly and efficiently and improve safety for our employees and vendors," said Nick Seminara, Executive Vice President, Claim Services at Travelers. "Kittyhawk helps us manage the vast amounts of information we gather on inspections so we can help our customers recover from disasters faster than ever before. We continue to leverage new technologies in our business, including within our drone program, and we are pleased to further our relationship with Kittyhawk." No longer do companies have to contend with a wide and ever-changing array of apps, license agreements, support procedures and data security concerns of having multiple vendors. Designed for drone operations that perform business-critical tasks, Kittyhawk makes it easier for companies to manage, track and fly drones safely and effectively. "Travelers is a model for other companies to follow when scaling a drone program," said Jon Hegranes, Kittyhawk CEO and Co-Founder. "We're excited to deepen our relationship with a trusted industry leader as we bring drone operations to new industries. Our focus at Kittyhawk is continuing to build the best tools that make using drones approachable and effective. Every company can be a drone company." About Kittyhawk Kittyhawk unifies the mission, aircraft and data to empower safe and effective drone operations. Based in San Francisco, the company develops full stack enterprise drone solutions for professional pilots and fleet managers in media, insurance, energy, transportation, law enforcement and emergency management. Founded in 2015, the company has received $9.5 million in aggregate funding from Travelers, Bonfire Ventures, Boeing HorizonX Ventures, Freestyle Ventures and The Flying Object (TFO). Learn more at https://kittyhawk.io . SOURCE Kittyhawk Related Links http://www.kittyhawk.io STOCKTON, Calif., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- SunPower by The Solar Quote announced that the company is giving away another solar panel system to one lucky homeowner. The second annual Extreme Solar Makeover is now open to all California homeowners. Through this giveaway, SunPower by The Solar Quote is focused on promoting sustainable, low-cost power and spreading the word about the benefits of solar, all while helping one homeowner reduce their power bills with a free residential solar panel system. "After seeing how much last year's winner, Betty Cousins, has benefitted from a solar power system, we couldn't wait to help another family save on electricity costs with solar," said Robert Posten, CEO of SunPower by The Solar Quote. "Solar can be a confusing industry, but our Extreme Solar Makeover gives us a unique opportunity to demonstrate how homeowners can save significant money on their power bills with the right technology and installation partner." With the company's continued expansion in the Central Valley, SunPower by The Solar Quote plans on running this yearly contest well into the future. "This is the perfect way to both give back to the community and help locals lower their power bills with sustainable electricity," Posten concluded. To enter the contest for the Extreme Solar Makeover: Go to www.sunpowerbythesolarquote.com during the month of October. The winner will be selected during the week of November 5, 2018. About SunPower by The Solar Quote: SunPower by The Solar Quote is a master dealer of SunPower Solar Panels which means they've hit outstanding marks for service and quality as determined by SunPower. Located in Stockton, Calif., The Solar Quote has designed and installed hundreds of residential solar systems throughout California since 2015. This contest is sponsored by Metron Capital. For more information contact: Jennifer Burroughs [email protected] (888)944-6765 [email protected] www.sunpowerbythesolarquote.com SOURCE SunPower by The Solar Quote Related Links www.sunpowerbythesolarquote.com DENVER, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- RE/MAX, LLC, the #1 name in real estate*, is proud to announce that Jeremy Lichtenstein of RE/MAX Realty Services in Bethesda, Maryland, is a winner of the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) Good Neighbor Award for 2018. Lichtenstein was recognized for creating KIND (Kids In Need Distributors), an organization that provides weekend meals to children in need to help combat the issue of food insecurity throughout Montgomery County in Maryland. "RE/MAX agents are inherently generous and passionate about supporting their communities," said Adam Contos, RE/MAX CEO. "Jeremy is an exceptional role model for our overarching corporate commitment to community giving. Outside of being an outstanding agent, he works tirelessly for a cause that is true to his heart. A true embodiment of our values and culture, we could not be prouder to have him as a part of the RE/MAX family." Lichtenstein created the nonprofit organization KIND in 2012 to address childhood hunger within his community. Montgomery County is one of the most affluent in the United States, yet one in three children in the local school system is on the federal Free and Reduced Meal program (FARM). In just six years, KIND has grown from providing weekend food for 37 students at one public school to now serving more than 2,000 children in 25 schools. "When I realized that thousands of children didn't have enough to eat in my own neighborhood, there was no other choice but to spring into action immediately," said Lichtenstein. "At the time, I had no idea the impact KIND could have and how much my small food donation project could grow. I'm truly humbled by this honor from my peers at the National Association of REALTORS, however KIND would not be possible without all of the volunteers and vendor partners who help to make my dream of helping families in need a reality." Lichtenstein and the four other winners will each receive a $10,000 grant for their nonprofit organizations and a feature in the November/December issue of REALTOR Magazine. The winners will accept an award in front of thousands of their peers at the 2018 REALTORS Conference & Expo in Boston November 2-5, 2018. The remaining five out of 10 total finalists for the award will each receive honorable mentions and a $2,500 grant in recognition of their work. The National Association of REALTORS Good Neighbor Award is supported by primary sponsor realtor.com and Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Nominees were judged on their personal contribution of time as well as financial and material contributions to benefit their causes. RE/MAX is in more countries and territories than any other real estate brand. From a single office that opened in 1973 in Denver, Colo., RE/MAX has grown into a global real estate network with more than 120,000 sales associates in more than 100 countries and territories. About the RE/MAX Network As one of the leading global real estate franchisors, RE/MAX, LLC is a subsidiary of RE/MAX Holdings (NYSE: RMAX) with over 120,000 agents in more than 100 countries and territories. Nobody in the world sells more real estate than RE/MAX, as measured by residential transaction sides. Dedicated to innovation and change in the real estate industry, RE/MAX launched Motto Mortgage, a ground-breaking mortgage franchisor, in 2016 and acquired booj, a real estate technology company, in 2018. RE/MAX agents have lived, worked and served in their local communities for decades, raising millions of dollars every year for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and other charities. To learn more about RE/MAX, to search home listings or find an agent in your community, please visit www.remax.com. For the latest news about RE/MAX, please visit www.remax.com/newsroom. About Realtor.com Realtor.com, the Home of Home Search, offers an extensive inventory of for-sale and rental listings, along with access to information, tools and professional expertise that help people move confidently through every step of their home journey. It pioneered the world of digital real estate 20 years ago, and today is the trusted resource for home buyers, sellers and dreamers by making all things home simple, efficient and enjoyable. About Wells Fargo Wells Fargo is the nation's leading originator and servicer of residential mortgages, offering home loans to consumers through the country's largest network of mortgage locations and bank branches, online, and via phone. With more than 7,500 Home Mortgage Consultants across the country and robust digital capabilities, Wells Fargo is committed to meeting Realtor expectations and homebuyer needs. Focused on a culture of caring for communities, Wells Fargo is a proud sponsor of the Good Neighbor Awards to recognize the extraordinary contributions made by Realtors in the communities where we together live and serve. About The National Association of Realtors The National Association of Realtors is America's largest trade association, representing 1.3 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. SOURCE RE/MAX, LLC Related Links https://www.remax.com COLLEGE PARK, Md., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- A $1.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education will allow the Center for Global Business at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business to expand its portfolio of externships, language training and other programs through 2022. "The grant gives us an opportunity to serve Smith students, Smith faculty and the Maryland business community," says Rebecca Bellinger, executive director of the school's Center for Global Business. "The grant also gives us a platform for reaching outside the school to connect the rest of the country and the rest of the world to Smith." The four-year funding commitment, renewed for the fifth time at Maryland Smith, will position the school as a national resource center with 20 years of experience in the Centers for International Business Education (CIBE) program. Maryland was one of 15 grant recipients chosen from a competitive applicant pool in 2018. "The CIBER network allows us to do things together with other schools at a scale that we wouldn't be able to do otherwise," says Kislaya Prasad, research professor and academic director at the Center for Global Business. Among the new initiatives, the center will seek to establish externship positions that will connect Smith students with the Maryland business community. "We will place students within companies that would benefit from having an additional pair of hands and additional talent on their teams," Bellinger says. "Essentially, the students will help small and midsized companies export Maryland products." The externships will be managed through a Smith partnership with the Maryland Department of Commerce. Other partnership activities will continue, including export management training and the Maryland Global Consulting Program launched in 2016. The center also will expand its partnership with Maryland's School of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures. During the previous grant cycle, the partnership produced two business language courses in French and Arabic supplementing the school's existing courses in business Spanish. The new grant will allow additional courses in business German, starting in spring 2019, and at least two more business language courses. "These courses will be very significant for the language learning community on campus," Bellinger says. "Especially if we can tie these courses to emerging markets, an area of emphasis in our grant application." Other grant activities will include global internships, international business treks and study abroad programs. In terms of research initiatives, Prasad says one area of focus will be digital trade and artificial intelligence. "The iconic American exports in the old days were General Motors cars and Coca-Cola," Prasad says. "But now when you go to different countries, you might stay in an Airbnb, you might order something on Amazon, or you might call an Uber to go where you want to go. So there are these different exports that are facilitated by digital platforms and data flows associated with artificial intelligence." The U.S. government launched CIBE in 1988. The program provides funding to business schools for curriculum development, research and training on issues of importance to U.S. trade and competitiveness. About the Robert H. Smith School of Business The Robert H. Smith School of Business is an internationally recognized leader in management education and research. One of 12 colleges and schools at the University of Maryland, College Park, the Smith School offers undergraduate, full-time and part-time MBA, executive MBA, online MBA, specialty masters, PhD and executive education programs, as well as outreach services to the corporate community. Contact: Greg Muraski at [email protected] or 301-405-5283 SOURCE University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business Related Links http://www.rhsmith.umd.edu SSL, together with sister company Radiant Solutions, demonstrate the power of Maxar's end-to-end, advanced capabilities to solve mission critical challenges HERNDON, VA, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - SSL, a Maxar Technologies company (formerly MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.) (NYSE: MAXR) (TSX: MAXR), and a leading provider of innovative satellites and spacecraft systems, announced today it was selected through the Space Enterprise Consortium, managed by Advanced Technology International, to lead the team developing a persistent space layer prototype concept to address warfighter requirements for detecting and tracking missile threats for the U.S. Department of Defense's Missile Defense Agency . The award demonstrates how Maxar Technologies companies are working together to build a better world and maintain American leadership in space. In partnership with SSL, Maxar's Radiant Solutions will augment SSL's longstanding leadership in building resilient, persistent and cost effective space solutions with Radiant Solutions' world-class mission and ground systems engineering expertise to solve the U.S. Department of Defense mission needs. The concept, called the Space Sensor Layer (previously Missile Defense Tracking System), is crucial to the next-generation operational space layer, providing persistent and resilient capabilities to detect and track threats using space-based sensing. Harnessing the power of Maxar Technologies' unrivaled, advanced capabilities, including extensive experience in spacecraft design, sensor technology, space-to-ground communications, and enterprise ground segment development, as well as the industry leading expertise of Systems Engineering Associates in overhead persistent infrared systems engineering, SSL will formulate an affordable and effective end-to-end solution that includes overarching system engineering and integration support. "We are honored to accelerate the innovation needed for next-generation concepts that support national and international security and a more resilient American space enterprise," said Richard White, president of SSL Government Systems. "As a global leader in producing powerful, cost-effective, and reliable commercial satellites, SSL is in a strong position to support the U.S. government in meeting its most critical space system challenges with confidence." "As Maxar Technology companies, Radiant Solutions and SSL together are able to unlock new solutions and more insights than either of us could do alone," said Tony Frazier, President of Radiant Solutions. "The important missile defense concepts we are working on will bolster U.S. national security and build a better world. Together, our goal is to help defense and intelligence agencies address their most critical and complex challenges with confidence." In another example of the company's trusted partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense, SSL recently completed a study exploring new solutions for next-generation space architectures to meet the objectives of the U.S. Air Force Space Command's Space Enterprise Vision, which is expected to accelerate crucial technologies for resilient space defense capabilities and positions SSL as a leader in technologies and systems for future missions. About SSL SSL, based in Palo Alto, California, is a leading provider of advanced spacecraft systems, with broad expertise to support commercial and government satellite operators and innovative space missions. The company designs and manufactures spacecraft for services such as direct-to-home television, video content distribution, broadband internet, mobile communications, in-orbit servicing, space exploration, and Earth observation. As a Silicon Valley innovator for 60 years, SSL's advanced product line includes state-of-the-art small satellites, and sophisticated robotics and autonomous solutions for remote operations. SSL is a Maxar Technologies company (NYSE: MAXR) (TSX: MAXR). For more information, visit www.sslmda.com. About Radiant Solutions Radiant Solutions provides highly specialized, innovative geospatial multisource data, analytics, software, and services to deliver critical insights and intelligence where and when it matters. Poised to transform how customers support global mapping and intelligence missions at scale, Radiant Solutions harnesses the proliferation of pervasive information-gathering sensors, open-source software, cloud computing, machine learning, and big data analytics. Our combined team of over 1,000 sensor and spacecraft engineers, geospatial analysts, weather and ocean experts, developers, data scientists, and DevOps engineers delivers innovative geospatial solutions that keep our nation safe, protect critical infrastructure, and preserve scarce natural resources. Building on the legacy of MDA Information Systems, RadiantBlue, DigitalGlobe Intelligence Solutions, and HumanGeo, the newly combined Radiant Solutions has a strong track record with its advanced capabilities, open approach, and experience supporting missions that helps customers in the GEOINT community reach critical decisions faster and with greater accuracy. Radiant Solutions is based in Herndon, VA with major offices across Virginia, Maryland, Florida, Michigan, and Colorado. Radiant Solutions is a business unit of Maxar Technologies, a U.S. operating company (NYSE: MAXR) (TSX: MAXR). For more information visit: www.RadiantSolutions.com. About Maxar Technologies As a global leader of advanced space technology solutions, Maxar Technologies (formerly MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates) is at the nexus of the new space economy, developing and sustaining the infrastructure and delivering the information, services, systems that unlock the promise of space for commercial and government markets. As a trusted partner, Maxar Technologies provides vertically integrated capabilities and expertise including satellites, Earth imagery, robotics, geospatial data and analytics to help customers anticipate and address their most complex mission-critical challenges with confidence. With more than 6,500 employees in over 30 global locations, the Maxar Technologies portfolio of commercial space brands includes MDA, SSL, DigitalGlobe and Radiant Solutions. Every day, billions of people rely on Maxar to communicate, share information and data, and deliver insights that Build a Better World. Maxar trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange as MAXR. For more information, visit www.maxar.com. Contact Wendy Lewis | SSL Media Contact | 1-650-852-5188 | [email protected] Andre Kearns | Radiant Solutions Media Contact | 1-703-480-6290 | [email protected] Jason Gursky | Maxar Investor Relations | 1-303-684-2207 | [email protected] Nancy Coleman | Maxar Media Contact | 1-303-684-1674 | [email protected]com Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements and other information included in this release constitute "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") under applicable securities laws. Statements including words such as "may", "will", "could", "should", "would", "plan", "potential", "intend", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate" or "expect" and other words, terms and phrases of similar meaning are often intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements involve estimates, expectations, projections, goals, forecasts, assumptions, risks and uncertainties, as well as other statements referring to or including forward-looking information included in this release. Forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results or expectations expressed in this release. As a result, although management of the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. The risks that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to, the risk factors and other disclosures about the Company and its business included in the Company's continuous disclosure materials filed from time to time with Canadian and U.S. securities regulatory authorities, which are available online under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com, under the Company's EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov or on the Company's website at www.maxar.com. The forward-looking statements contained in this release are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. All such forward-looking statements are based upon data available as of the date of this release or other specified date and speak only as of such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements in this release as a result of new information or future events, except as may be required under applicable securities legislation. SOURCE Maxar Technologies Ltd. Related Links www.maxar.com CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- ARANZ Medical now provides General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance with Microsoft's Azure cloud hosting service, enabling the secure hosting of clinical trial data collected across multiple countries. Data security and privacy has always been important for clinical trials, and now with the GDPR in place making sure that trial data collected across Europe meets these new rules is paramount. Microsoft Azure is a GDPR compliant cloud computing service created by Microsoft for building, testing, deploying, and managing applications and services through a global network of Microsoft-managed data centers. Bruce Davey, ARANZ Medical CEO says, "Being able to offer secure data hosting across countries with Microsoft Azure is a significant milestone for ARANZ Medical and Silhouette. Microsoft Azure also increases the capabilities of our clinical trial customers to monitor their systems and manage data in new and innovative ways." One of ARANZ Medical's first European customers to benefit from the Microsoft Azure service is Promore Pharma AB who is running a Phase IIb clinical trial with the company's product candidate LL-37 for treatment of venous leg ulcers. The trial will recruit 120 patients in Poland and Sweden. ARANZ Medical has been a Microsoft Certified Development Partner for a number of years, utilizing a range of Microsoft development tools and support services, and now Microsoft Azure will enable growth for the company. Gabe Rijpma, Microsoft Senior Director Health Industry for Asia says, "I'm delighted to see ARANZ Medical taking this next step to build their presence in the EU after a long association with the company. Microsoft Azure will enable ARANZ Medical's Silhouette solution to securely operate across multiple countries, which is often required for the kinds of specialized clinical trials that Silhouette is used for." ARANZ Medical's Silhouette skin imaging and measuring solutions are a popular choice both for organizations undertaking clinical trials on skin and wound treatments and for clinical practice providers looking to improve their business and patient outcomes. About ARANZ Medical ARANZ Medical Limited is a global medical device company focused on commercializing innovative, proprietary medical image-capture devices and recording, reporting and analysis software. The company's systems are primarily used in the chronic wound market, and are well-suited to clinical trials and telemedicine applications. www.aranzmedical.com SOURCE ARANZ Medical Related Links http://www.aranzmedical.com "The leadership of our executive committee is of key importance to our firm, and the addition of Dave and Miriam will be a benefit to the leadership within the committee," said McDonald Hopkins President Shawn Riley. Rosen is based in the firm's Detroit office, where she represents and counsels employers on a wide-range of labor and employment law issues. She focuses her practice on counseling employers on day-to-day human resources matters to ensure compliance with complex issues arising from state and federal employment laws, such as the FMLA, ADA, and civil rights statutes. In addition to being honored with inclusion in Michigan Super Lawyers and Dbusiness Magazine's Top Lawyers, Rosen was named one of the Best Lawyers in America for 2019 her seventh consecutive selection. She earned her J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law in 1987 and a B.A., with high distinction, from Michigan State University in 1984. In addition to his leadership role in the firm's Chicago office, Agay serves on McDonald Hopkins' Board of Directors and leads the Business Restructuring Services team in Chicago. He practices in the areas of business restructuring, business counseling, commercial finance, mergers and acquisitions and distressed M&A. The 1998 University of Michigan Law School alumnus and 1994 Pomona College graduate is a member of the American Bankruptcy Institute and the Turnaround Management Association. Agay, who is licensed in Illinois and New York, is the recipient of several awards, including his selection as one of the Best Lawyers in America and inclusion in Illinois Rising Stars and Illinois Super Lawyers. About McDonald Hopkins Founded in 1930, McDonald Hopkins is a business advisory and advocacy law firm with locations in Chicago, Cleveland, Columbus, Detroit, Miami, and West Palm Beach. With more than 50 service and industry teams, the firm has the expertise and knowledge to meet the growing number of legal and business challenges our clients face. For more information about McDonald Hopkins, visit mcdonaldhopkins.com. CONTACT: David Carducci McDonald Hopkins LLC 600 Superior Avenue, East, Suite 2100 Cleveland, Ohio 44114 Phone: 216.348.5814 Email: [email protected] SOURCE McDonald Hopkins LLC DENVER, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading independent brand experience consultancy Monigle announced today their rebrand of Eastern Maine Healthcare Systems as Northern Light Health, reflecting the system's new size and scope. After decades of growth and acquisition, Northern Light Health's new identity reflects the transformation of both their business and industry. "Defining a new brand for Northern Light Health wasn't just a nice-to-have; it was an imperative," said Justin Wartell, Monigle's Managing Director. "Our team is proud to bring to life a new brand that truly captivates the spirit of Northern Light Health, its mission and its home state of Maine." As part of this transformation, Monigle introduced a complete visual and verbal toolkit for Northern Light Health that will be implemented throughout the entire systemfrom outdoor signage and naming conventions to their digital experienceand across all facilities, services and offerings. The new brand experience symbolizes Northern Light Health's desire for a brighter and healthier Maine. The sixteen facets in its logo tie together the state's sixteen counties while providing a dynamic graphic element that weaves together every digital, printed and physical touchpoint in a unified visual story. For more information on the project, please visit https://www.monigle.com/client-story/northern-light-health/. About Monigle Monigle, the nation's largest independent brand experience consultancy, has been at the forefront of redefining how brands come to life in the real world since 1971. Offering a full spectrum of services including strategy, insights, identity, culture, activations, management and branded environments, Monigle works with organizations to build and sustain a hard-working brand that drives long-term growth and a powerful experience. For more information, visit www.monigle.com . About Northern Light Health At Northern Light Health, we're building a better approach to healthcare because we believe people deserve access to care that works for them. As an integrated health delivery system serving Maine, we're raising the bar with no-nonsense solutions that are leading the way to a healthier future for our state. Our more than 12,000 team membersin our hospitals, primary and specialty care practices, long-term and home healthcare, and ground and air medical transport and emergency careare committed to making healthcare work for you: our patients, communities, and employees. To learn more about Northern Light Health and our locations across Maine, visit www.northernlighthealth.org. Chris Binding (303) 388-9358 [email protected] SOURCE Monigle Related Links http://www.monigle.com PRINCETON, N.J., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Only one in three Americans (36 percent) can actually pass a multiple choice test consisting of items taken from the U.S. Citizenship Test, which has a passing score of 60, according to a national survey released today by the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation. Only 13 percent of those surveyed knew when the U.S. Constitution was ratified, even on a multiple-choice exam similar to the citizenship exam, with most incorrectly thinking it occurred in 1776. More than half of respondents (60 percent) didn't know which countries the United States fought in World War II. And despite the recent media spotlight on the U.S. Supreme Court, 57 percent of those surveyed did not know how many Justices actually serve on the nation's highest court. "With voters heading to the polls next month, an informed and engaged citizenry is essential," Woodrow Wilson Foundation President Arthur Levine said. "Unfortunately this study found the average American to be woefully uninformed regarding America's history and incapable of passing the U.S. Citizenship Test. It would be an error to view these findings as merely an embarrassment. Knowledge of the history of our country is fundamental to maintaining a democratic society, which is imperiled today." Most Americans Don't Know the Facts About Country's Founding The poll, conducted by Lincoln Park Strategies has a margin of error of 3 percent with a random sample of 1,000 American citizens. The survey also found that: Seventy-two percent of respondents either incorrectly identified or were unsure of which states were part of the 13 original states; Only 24 percent could correctly identify one thing Benjamin Franklin was famous for, with 37 percent believing he invented the lightbulb; and was famous for, with 37 percent believing he invented the lightbulb; and Only 24 percent knew the correct answer as to why the colonists fought the British. Age Gaps Exist Surprisingly, the poll found stark gaps in knowledge depending on age. Those 65 years and older scored the best, with 74 percent answering at least six in 10 questions correctly. For those under the age of 45, only 19 percent passed with the exam, with 81 percent scoring a 59 percent or lower. American History Initiative The teaching of American history has traditionally focused on memorization, dates, names and events. This poll shows that these methods of learning history have not been effective. In early 2019, the Woodrow Wilson Foundation will announce a new program designed to change the way in which history is taught and learned. About the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation Founded in 1945, the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation (www.woodrow.org) identifies and develops the nation's best minds to meet its most critical challenges. The Foundation supports its Fellows as the next generation of leaders shaping American society. Media contact: Patrick Riccards [email protected] 703-298-8283 SOURCE Woodrow Wilson Foundation Related Links http://www.woodrow.org CHICAGO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Technomic's biennial Away-from-Home Beverage Marketplace Multi Client Study now offers ongoing critical beverage insights to participating manufacturers over the course of a 24-month subscription cycle. The study, launching this November, is the most comprehensive and reliable source of industry intelligence, covering categories ranging from hot tea, coffee and cocoa to carbonated soft drinks, juices, lemonades and nitro brew. Learn more about this study and sponsorship opportunities at https://www.technomic.com/available-studies/multi-client-studies/away-from-home-beverage. "Technomic has been tracking the beverage industry for decades, so we're excited to provide our clients with a new way to interact with the volumetric data," said David Henkes, senior principal. "With the new ongoing deliverable model, sponsors can strategically assess their business in real time versus leveraging the point-in-time study." Program benefits include: Determine by how much the industry has grown from $34 billion , which was the 2016 market size measured in manufacturer shipments. , which was the 2016 market size measured in manufacturer shipments. Leverage insights from consumer and operator interviews to understand unmet needs and key drivers. Receive category and innovation spotlights to help ideate around new products. Gain access to all beverage volumetrics via an online, interactive dashboard, allowing sponsors to manipulate the data to suit their needs. Schedule on-site work sessions and webinars with the study author to glean recommendations and other tailored insights. Technomic has published biennial updates to the Away-from-Home Beverage Marketplace Multi Client Study since 2005. The volumetric study is available for sponsorship now and is expected to be published in March 2019. Clients who choose to join the full program will receive ongoing deliverables through September 2020. For more details on this study or any of our other upcoming or completed foodservice industry studies, contact one of the individuals below. Contacts: Press inquiries: David Henkes, (312) 506-3927, [email protected] Purchasing details: Patrick Noone, (312) 506-3852, [email protected] About Technomic Technomic Inc., a Winsight company, delivers a 360-degree view of the food industry. It impacts growth and profitability for clients by providing consumer-grounded vision and channel-relevant strategic insights. Its services range from major research studies and management consulting solutions to online databases and simple fact-finding assignments. Its clients include food manufacturers and distributors, restaurants and retailers, other foodservice organizations, and various institutions aligned with the food industry. Visit Technomic at www.technomic.com. About Winsight LLC Winsight LLC is a recognized leader in business-to-business media and information services for the convenience-retailing, foodservice and grocery industries. Winsight has an extensive media portfolio, including five publications: CSP, Restaurant Business, FoodService Director, Convenience Store Products and Winsight Grocery Business. Winsight also offers a suite of digital products, including websites, e-newsletters, webinars, video products, mobile and tablet apps, and custom marketing solutions. In addition to more than 12 major EduNetworking conferences and advisory meetings, Winsight also produces seven exclusive, large-scale executive-level conferences: Restaurant Leadership Conference, Global Restaurant Leadership Conference, Outlook Leadership Conference, Convenience Retailing University, FSTEC, MenuDirections and Restaurant Directions. In 2015, Winsight acquired Technomic Inc., a provider of primary and secondary market information and advisory services for the food industry. For more information on Winsight and its brands, go to www.winsightmedia.com. SOURCE Technomic Inc. Related Links http://www.technomic.com WESTMONT, Ill. and HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Nexgen Packaging, a full service provider of apparel identification products to retailers as well as to apparel, footwear and textile brands, today announced that Agnes Siu has joined the company as Regional Director SE Asia. Mrs. Siu has over 30 years experience in the retail, apparel and footwear industry most recently holding the position of Company Representative of Vietnam for Li & Fung where she was responsible for the business performance of key accounts and overall support of Li & Fung's business in Vietnam for 4 years. Mrs. Siu has held senior roles throughout Asia including leadership positions in sourcing and merchandising for retail brands Gap and PVH as well as regional leadership roles for Avery Dennison. Mrs. Siu will be based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. "Nexgen continues to achieve strong market share growth in North America & Europe by providing our customers with quality products, exceptional customer service, and industry-leading technology that brings visibility and efficiencies to supply chain operations," said Andy Effron, Nexgen's Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer. "Vietnam is one of our fastest growing regions and we are extremely proud to have someone of Agnes's caliber join our management team. The combination of her leadership roles with retailers in sourcing and merchandising with her experience leading trim and packaging operations throughout Asia will be of great value to our customers who are manufacturing in Vietnam,. I have worked closely with Agnes in the past and I look forward to having her lead our efforts to grow our team and capabilities in Vietnam." "I am thrilled to be joining the Nexgen team," said Mrs. Siu. "Nexgen has created an outstanding reputation with the retailers/brands and garment manufacturers globally. Their software platform has over 12,000 factories using it already and the visibility to the supply chain is unparalleled. The opportunity to expand our relationship with customers in Vietnam is significant and I am excited to be leading the effort in the region." About Nexgen Packaging Nexgen Packaging, LLC Nexgen was founded with the goal of providing customers with the highest quality packaging products by leveraging software and analytics in the design and manufacturing processes. Since its inception in 2006, Nexgen has become a global leader in the tag and label industry offering a complete portfolio of apparel branding products, variable data products and other packaging solutions. We focus exclusively on retail, apparel and footwear brands and our success is directly linked to our core software offerings that are used by over 12,000 manufacturing entities globally. To learn more about Nexgen Packaging, visit nexgenpackaging.com. 888.648.4004 1010 executive court, suite 100 westmont, il 60559 nexgenpkg.com SOURCE Nexgen Packaging, LLC Related Links http://www.nexgenpkg.com LONDON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Noble Corporation plc (NYSE: NE) today announced it plans to report financial results for the third quarter 2018 on Wednesday, October 31, 2018, after the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange. Copies of the Company's press release will be available on the Noble Website at www.noblecorp.com. Noble also has scheduled a conference call and webcast related to its third quarter 2018 results on Thursday, November 1, 2018, at 8:00 a.m. U.S. Central Daylight Time. Interested parties are invited to listen to the call by dialing 1-833-245-9653, or internationally 1-647-689-4225, using access code: 7883359, or by asking for the Noble Corporation plc conference call. Interested parties may also listen over the Internet through a link posted in the Investor Relations section of the Company's Website. A replay of the conference call will be available on Thursday, November 1, 2018, beginning at 11:00 a.m. U.S. Central Daylight Time, through Saturday, December 1, 2018, ending at 11:00 p.m. U.S. Central Standard Time. The phone number for the conference call replay is 1-800-585-8367 or, for calls from outside of the U.S., 1-416-621-4642, using access code: 7883359. The replay will also be available on the Company's Website following the end of the live call. About Noble Corporation plc Noble is a leading offshore drilling contractor for the oil and gas industry. The Company owns and operates one of the most modern, versatile and technically advanced fleets in the offshore drilling industry. Noble performs, through its subsidiaries, contract drilling services with a fleet of 25 offshore drilling units, consisting of 12 drillships and semisubmersibles and 13 jackups, focused largely on ultra-deepwater and high-specification jackup drilling opportunities in both established and emerging regions worldwide. Noble is a public limited company registered in England and Wales with company number 08354954 and registered office at 10 Brook Street, London, W1S 1BG England. Additional information on Noble is available at www.noblecorp.com. SOURCE Noble Corporation Related Links http://www.noblecorp.com "As a leader in maternal and children's health in the region, Holy Cross Health helps newborns have the best chance at a healthy start in life so that they may reach their full potential, and we are honored to make this donation in support of their work," said Jason Aufdem-Brinke, executive director and treasurer of The Nora Roberts Foundation and one of Roberts' sons. Holy Cross Hospital and Holy Cross Germantown Hospital delivered and cared for more than 10,700 newborns last fiscal year, the most of any health system in the state of Maryland. Additionally, Holy Cross Health provides obstetrical services to almost 1,100 low-income women each year who would otherwise lack access to high-quality pre- and post-natal care. The gift from The Nora Roberts Foundation was its second major commitment to Holy Cross Health over the past several years. An initial commitment of $250,000 supported the building of Holy Cross Germantown Hospital in 2014 and the Holy Cross Hospital South Building in 2015. The Nora Roberts Foundation's latest commitment will support renovation projects to expand Holy Cross Hospital's maternity triage area for women in labor, update cesarean section operating rooms and invest in technology for the Perinatal Diagnostic Center, supporting Holy Cross' continued innovation in care. "As a forward-thinking health system, Holy Cross Health is committed to anticipating the needs of women and children and ensuring their evolving needs will continue to be met in the future, so that each woman and baby can achieve their best possible health and life," said Ann Burke, MD, obstetrics and gynecology, vice president, Medical Affairs, Holy Cross Hospital. The gift was announced at the Holy Cross Health Foundation's Women's Health Ball on Saturday, September 29. About Holy Cross Health Holy Cross Health, founded in 1963 by the Sisters of the Holy Cross, is a comprehensive Catholic health care delivery system that includes two hospitals and a network of community health centers in Montgomery County, Maryland. Holy Cross Hospital, the largest hospital in Montgomery and Prince George's counties, is located on the Kevin J. Sexton Campus of Holy Cross Health in Silver Spring. Holy Cross Germantown Hospital is the first hospital in the nation located on the campus of a community college. Holy Cross Health Network provides primary care at health centers located in Silver Spring, Aspen Hill, Gaithersburg, and Germantown and community education throughout Montgomery and Prince George's counties. The Holy Cross Health Foundation is a not-for-profit organization devoted to raising philanthropic funds to support the mission of Holy Cross Health by improving the health of the community. Visit HolyCrossHealth.org for more information. About The Nora Roberts Foundation In 2001, Nora Roberts created The Nora Roberts Foundation. A successful business woman as well as a best-selling author, Ms. Roberts envisioned the foundation as an avenue of support for organizations promoting and encouraging literacy, children, the arts and humanitarian efforts. These areas, particularly important to her and her family, serve as the focus of the Foundation. For More Information Contact: The Nora Roberts Foundation Jason Aufdem-Brinke: [email protected] Holy Cross Health Nancy Graham: 301-754-7142 SOURCE Holy Cross Health Related Links http://holycrosshealth.org WASHINGTON, Oct. 3rd, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Normet Corporation and Oulu University has signed a partnership agreement to develop their co-operation. With the signed contract, the parties will initiate development, research and training co-operation to strengthen the development and testing conditions of vehicle technology. The ongoing transition in vehicle technology sets to players in the sector new challenges with the tightening of environmental legislation and changing needs of end customers. At the same time, our personnel's expertise is subject to new demands that we can answer with this partnership agreement signed with Oulu University of Applied Sciences, states Heikki Ojala, Vice President, Global R&D in Normet Corporation. Normet Corporation is one of the Northern Finland's driving companies whose success radiates to a wide range of companies in supply chains throughout northern Finland. The success of these driving companies is important to safeguard employment and prosperity throughout our region. The Oulu University of Applied Sciences is responsible for the education of automobile and vehicle technology in half of the territory of Finland. The signed agreement is an important step towards closer cooperation between the parties, says Jukka Sakkinen, Director, Education, R&D and innovation. Additional Information: Normet Oy: Heikki Ojala Vice President, Global R&D e-mail: [email protected] mobile: +358-40-539-4803 Oulun University of Applied Sciences: Jukka Sakkinen Director, Education, R&D and Innovation e-mail: [email protected] mobile: +358-50-595-7951 Normet is an innovative, fast growing technology company. We are underground experts driven by continuous improvement and care for environment. We offer complete technical solutions increasing our customers' profitability through improved safety, cost savings and shortened process cycle. Normet has a broad offering for underground mining and tunnelling: equipment, construction chemicals, rock reinforcement products and services. Normet currently employs over 1200 business professionals and the net sales in 2017 was over 250 million Euro. Normet is a Finnish company operating globally with over 50 locations in 30 countries. For more information, visit www.normet.com. Oamk is one of Finland's most respected and academically appealing universities of applied sciences. We educate professionals and develop Northern Finland's competitive advantage together with working life. 1 500 experts graduate from Oamk every year to meet the needs of the region's working life. 580 dedicated Oamk personnel are responsible for teaching, research and development. . For more information, visit www.oamk.fi/en/ This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com http://news.cision.com/normet/r/normet-corporation-and-oulu-university-of-applied-sciences-develop-their-co-operation,c2633475 The following files are available for download: SOURCE Normet SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- OmniSci (formerly MapD), the creator of an extreme analytics platform, today announced the completion of a $55 million Series C financing, led by new investor Tiger Global Management. This round takes total funding to $92 million. "Having finalized this Series C financing we are now focused on accelerating innovation for our customers, further building our passionate open source community, and expanding our team to support our rapidly growing enterprise customer base," said OmniSci's CEO and Co-founder Todd Mostak. Lead investor Tiger Global Management is a global investment firm with $26 billion under management. Existing investors also participated in the round, including In-Q-Tel, New Enterprise Associates, Vanedge Capital, NVIDIA, and Verizon Ventures. "We believe that the growing ecosystem of software purpose-built to run on GPUs can have a transformative impact to a number of software categories, with high-performance analytics, in particular, set for significant disruption," stated Lee Fixel, partner at Tiger Global Management. "It was clear to us that OmniSci has built the most advanced platform in this market, and the passion customers display for OmniSci's products show them to be the class leader today. We are delighted to lead this funding round and help OmniSci capture significant market share in the following years." OmniSci's technical vision was to create the fastest analytics software designed to run on the fastest hardware: NVIDIA's general purpose graphics processing units (GPUs). Commercially launched in 2016, adoption of OmniSci has paralleled the dramatic rise of GPUs in private and public data centers. NVIDIA's quarterly data center revenues have risen from $151 million in Q2-FY17 to $760 million in Q2-FY19. "We have worked closely with Todd and his team for nearly five years. They impressed us early on, winning the first startup competition at NVIDIA's GPU Technology Conference," said Jeff Herbst, Vice President of Business Development at NVIDIA, which has invested four times in the company. "Their success in revolutionizing big data analytics with the massive parallelism of NVIDIA GPUs demonstrates the disruption taking place in the enterprise software market for analytics and AI." OmniSci's customers include Global 2000 companies in industries such as telecommunications; automotive; oil and gas; financial services; high technology; and advertising. OmniSci also works with the US defense and intelligence communities. "Our customers require a new class of analytics that enables them to query and visually interact with up to billions of records with near-zero latency," said Mostak. Customers report orders of magnitude speed ups over traditional systems, with one customer reducing a complex big data query from 18 hours, running in a CPU-based data warehousing technology, to under 1 second with OmniSci. Kyle Hubert, CTO at Simulmedia, a TV advertising technology company, said "Simulmedia processes billions of data records every week. We've been a customer of OmniSci since its launch in 2016, attracted by its lightning fast SQL and interactive visualization capabilities. Since then, we've experienced rapid maturing of the platform, to the point where it has obviated various workloads in solutions as diverse as Redshift, Tableau, and Looker. Testament to OmniSci's ease of use is that our client-facing teams organically embraced the platform something we don't often see with other tools." Over the past year, OmniSci has tripled its employee base and now has over 100 organizations using its software globally. The platform is available in open source, enterprise license, and cloud editions. About OmniSci OmniSci (formerly MapD) is the creator of the extreme analytics platform, used in business and government to find insights in big data beyond the limits of mainstream analytics tools. The platform, available in cloud, open source, and enterprise versions, harnesses the massive parallel computing of GPUs for breakthrough performance at scale. OmniSci originated from research at the MIT Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL). OmniSci is funded by GV, In-Q-Tel, New Enterprise Associates (NEA), NVIDIA, Tiger Global Management, Vanedge Capital and Verizon Ventures. The company is headquartered in San Francisco. MEDIA CONTACT: Penny Desatnik SSPR 415-915-8164 [email protected] SOURCE OmniSci Related Links https://www.omnisci.com NEW ORLEANS, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Following its recent announcement of former Smoothie King executive, Joe Lewis, as the brand's first-ever CEO, Painting with a Twist, the original and largest paint and sip franchise, welcomes Katherine LeBlanc to the newly-created position of Chief Marketing Officer. Named one of New Orleans CityBusiness magazine's 50 Women of the Year in 2016 and 2018, LeBlanc most recently served as Head of Sales and Marketing at Dickie Brennan and Co., parent company of the Palace Cafe, Bourbon House and other iconic New Orleans restaurant brands. Prior to that, she was Smoothie King's Director of Brand Marketing and helped guide the marketing department in developing and executing initiatives for more than 900 stores nationwide. LeBlanc was integral in establishing Smoothie King's new brand strategy and reaching significant growth in almost every metric, including same-store sales and guest count. "I had the pleasure of working with Katherine for four years while at Smoothie King and was impressed with her development and implementation of marketing strategy for a growing franchise organization," said Lewis. "Katherine will be an incredible asset to the Painting with a Twist team as we concentrate on fresh innovations to evolve our category and broaden our customer appeal." In her new role as CMO at Painting with a Twist, LeBlanc will oversee the marketing, art and information technology departments. She is charged with increasing the brand's resources and capabilities with a focus on improving studio sales. Ranked the No. 1 Paint and Sip Studio in Entrepreneur magazine's Annual Franchise 500 edition for the past five years, and the No. 4 best low investment franchise to buy in 2018 by Forbes, Painting with a Twist has more than 300 studios in 39 states. "I am thrilled to be joining a growing brand that inspires their customers, franchisees and employees through community involvement and the creation of art," said LeBlanc. "I look forward to being part of the team that takes this unique and fun concept to the next level." At Painting with a Twist studios across the country, guests come together to experience a unique 'getaway' that includes friends, paint and the option to BYOB. Led by local art instructors, guests paint on bare canvases using paint and brushes provided by the studio. There are more than 13,000 original pieces of copyrighted artwork, ranging from landscapes, abstracts and cityscapes, to creative renderings of animals, iconic buildings and florals, which have all been conceptualized and produced by Painting with a Twist art instructors. The company's charitable arm, Painting with a Purpose, raises money for local charities through monthly events at all locations. For more information about franchise opportunities with Painting with a Twist, visit www.paintingwithatwistfranchise.com. About Painting with a Twist Painting with a Twist, based in the New Orleans, Louisiana metropolitan area is the leading paint-and-sip franchise with more than 300 studios in 39 states. The company maintains a strong focus on giving back to the local community, and was recently recognized by the International Franchise Association's Franchise Education & Research Foundation's Franchising Gives Back Awards. To date, Painting with a Twist has donated more than $4.8 million through its charity arm, Painting with a Purpose. As the fastest-growing franchise in the category, Painting with a Twist has been ranked the No. 1 Paint and Sip franchise as part of Entrepreneur magazine's annual Franchise 500 edition for the past five years. For more information about Painting with a Twist's franchise opportunity, visit www.paintingwithatwistfranchise.com. Media Contact: Bre Whalen, Fishman Public Relations, (847) 945-1300 or [email protected] SOURCE Painting with a Twist Related Links https://paintingwithatwistfranchise.com LOS ANGELES, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Today's California Department of Education (CDE) report on the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (commonly known as Smarter Balanced) results show that for the 2017-18 school year, the number of students in the Partnership network meeting or exceeding math standards increased by two percentage points and the number meeting or exceeding English Language Arts (ELA) standards grew by three percentage points. The Partnership's results compare favorably to the state's one percentage point growth in math and one percentage point growth in ELA for 2017-18. The CDE data also show that over the four years the test has been administered in California, the Partnership for Los Angeles Schools' network* achieved a 15-point increase in English Language Arts (ELA) -- which is more than double the state's growth of six points -- and a nine point increase in math, which also is nearly double the state's growth of five points. The Partnership, one of the nation's largest in-district transformation organizations, manages a network of 18 high-need, TK-12 Los Angeles Unified School District (LA Unified) schools with 14,000 students in Boyle Heights, South Los Angeles and Watts. "Our network has made steady and significant progress in the Common Core era," says Joan Sullivan, chief executive officer of the Partnership for Los Angeles Schools. "This is a testament to our incredible teachers and school leaders as well as to our students, families and partners, including LA Unified. That said, we are not satisfied. We know we have much more work to do to ensure all our schools are not only meeting -- but exceeding -- standards in each grade level so that they are all on track for gaining access to, and achieving success in, four-year colleges." Specifically, Partnership schools achieved the following growth** results for the four-year period (2014-15 through 2017-18) since the inception of Smarter Balanced testing: ELEMENTARY All nine elementary schools grew in ELA and all but one grew in math. 20th Street Elementary, which joined the Partnership in 2016-17, grew by more than 20 points in ELA and in math, placing it in the top five percent in ELA growth and the top five percent in math growth of all LA Unified elementary schools from 2015-16 through 2017-18. 99th Street Elementary grew by more than 20 points in ELA, placing it in the top five percent of all LA Unified elementary schools in ELA growth over four years. Ritter Elementary grew by more than 20 points in math, placing it in the top 10 percent of all LA Unified elementary schools in math growth over four years. MIDDLE All four middle schools grew in ELA and math. Over the four-year period, the Partnership's Hollenbeck Middle School and Robert Louis Stevenson College and Career Prep Middle School were among the top 10% of all LA Unified middle schools in ELA growth; Hollenbeck Middle School was second in math growth among all LA Unified middle schools. HIGH All five high schools grew in ELA and math For the four-year period, the Partnership's Jordan High School and Roosevelt High School were among the top 10% of all LA Unified high schools in ELA growth; Roosevelt was number two overall in District ELA growth. and were among the top 10% of all LA Unified high schools in ELA growth; Roosevelt was number two overall in District ELA growth. Additionally, three Partnership high schools ( Mendez High School ; Math, Science, & Technology Magnet at Roosevelt; and Santee Educational Complex) have surpassed the LA Unified average of 51 percent of students meeting and exceeding ELA standards. "Partnership schools have made significant progress in math and ELA over the last 10 years and especially in the four years that Common Core standards have been used in LA Unified schools," says LA Unified Board President Monica Garcia. "Improved academic outcomes at Partnership schools help the entire District's academic outcomes and we appreciate the hard work of Partnership staff, principals, teachers, families and community partners to help students achieve to their highest potential. We are especially grateful to the Partnership for its ongoing commitment to ensuring that students in our highest need schools develop the skills needed to succeed in college and life." About the Partnership for Los Angeles Schools Launched in 2007, the Partnership for Los Angeles Schools is a nonprofit organization that serves 14,000 students across 18 campuses in Watts, Boyle Heights and South Los Angeles, California. The Partnership is one of the largest in-district public school transformation organizations in the U.S. and its model combines the rigor and innovation of instructional leadership programs with authentic community partnerships and family engagement to transform district public schools and lead transformational system-wide reforms. As an in-district partner, the Partnership works within the Los Angeles Unified School District context, which includes honoring all collective bargaining agreements for its teachers and school staff. @PartnershipLA Twitter @PartnershipLA Facebook @PartnershipLA Instagram *Grape Street Elementary, 20th Street Elementary, and 107th Street Elementary schools joined the Partnership after the first year of available Smarter Balanced results in 2014-15. The growth data included above reference growth from baseline year to the 2017-18 school year. **Growth rankings do not include schools that span multiple levels (e.g. K-12 schools), continuation, community day, special education, or opportunity schools, due to differences in student population and self-selection into special programs. In total, these schools make up 13% of LA Unified schools and 11% of students tested in LA Unified. Contact The Partnership for Los Angeles Schools Cathy Kralik, Director of Communications Office: 213.201.2000 x274 www.partnershipla.org SOURCE Partnership for Los Angeles Schools CALGARY, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Pembina Pipeline Corporation ("Pembina" or the "Company") (TSX: PPL;NYSE: PBA) announced today that its Board of Directors declared a common share cash dividend for October 2018 of $0.19 per share to be paid, subject to applicable law, on November 15, 2018 to shareholders of record on October 25, 2018. This dividend is designated an "eligible dividend" for Canadian income tax purposes. For non-resident shareholders, Pembina's common share dividends should be considered "qualified dividends" and may be subject to Canadian withholding tax. For shareholders receiving their common share dividends in U.S. funds, the October 2018 cash dividend is expected to be approximately U.S. $0.1481 per share (before deduction of any applicable Canadian withholding tax) based on a currency exchange rate of 0.7793. The actual U.S. dollar dividend will depend on the Canadian/U.S. dollar exchange rate on the payment date and will be subject to applicable withholding taxes. Pembina pays cash dividends on its common shares in Canadian dollars on a monthly basis to shareholders of record on the 25th calendar day of each month (except for the December record date, which is December 31st), if, as and when determined by the Board of Directors. Should the record date fall on a weekend or a statutory holiday, the effective record date will be the previous business day. The dividend payment date is the 15th of the month following the record date. Should the payment date fall on a weekend or on a holiday the business day prior to the weekend or holiday becomes the payment date. Pembina's Board of Directors also declared quarterly dividends for the Company's preferred shares, Series 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19 and 21. Series 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 21 preferred share dividends are payable on December 3, 2018 to shareholders of record on November 1, 2018. Series 15, 17 and 19 preferred share dividends are payable on December 31, 2018 to shareholders of record on December 17, 2018. Series Dividend Amount Preferred Shares, Series 1 (PPL.PR.A) $0.265625 Preferred Shares, Series 3 (PPL.PR.C) $0.293750 Preferred Shares, Series 5 (PPL.PR.E) $0.312500 Preferred Shares, Series 7 (PPL.PR.G) $0.281250 Preferred Shares, Series 9 (PPL.PR.I) $0.296875 Preferred Shares, Series 11 (PPL.PR.K) $0.359375 Preferred Shares, Series 13 (PPL.PR.M) $0.359375 Preferred Shares, Series 15 (PPL.PR.O) $0.279000 Preferred Shares, Series 17 (PPL.PR.Q) $0.312500 Preferred Shares, Series 19 (PPL.PR.S) $0.312500 Preferred Shares, Series 21 (PPL.PF.A) $0.306250 These dividends are designated "eligible dividends" for Canadian income tax purposes. For non-resident shareholders, Pembina's common share dividends should be considered "qualified dividends" and may be subject to Canadian withholding tax. Dividends on the preferred shares Series 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 21 are payable on the first day of March, June, September and December in each year, if, as and when declared by the Board of Directors to shareholders of record on the first day of the preceding month, or, if such payment or record date is not a business day, the next succeeding business day after the weekend or holiday. Dividends on the preferred shares Series 15, 17 and 19 are payable on the last day of March, June, September and December in each year, if, as and when declared by the Board of Directors to shareholders of record on the fifteenth day of the same month, or, if such payment or record date is not a business day, the next succeeding business day after the weekend or holiday. Conference Call and Webcast Details for Third Quarter 2018 Results Pembina will release its third quarter 2018 results on Thursday, November 1, 2018 after markets close. A conference call and webcast have been scheduled for Friday, November 2, 2018 at 8:00 a.m. MT (10:00 a.m. ET) for interested investors, analysts, brokers and media representatives. The conference call dial-in numbers for Canada and the U.S. are 647-427-7450 or 888-231-8191. A recording of the conference call will be available for replay until November 9, 2018 at 11:59 p.m. ET. To access the replay, please dial either 416-849-0833 or 855-859-2056 and enter the password 7697531. A live webcast of the conference call can be accessed on Pembina's website at www.pembina.com under Investor Centre, Presentation & Events, or by entering: https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/1652776/3F954F3630A028629E570FDCB6625739 in your web browser. Shortly after the call, an audio archive will be posted on the website for a minimum of 90 days. About Pembina Calgary-based Pembina Pipeline Corporation is a leading transportation and midstream service provider that has been serving North America's energy industry for over 60 years. Pembina owns an integrated system of pipelines that transport various hydrocarbon liquids and natural gas products produced primarily in western Canada. The Company also owns gas gathering and processing facilities and an oil and natural gas liquids infrastructure and logistics business. Pembina's integrated assets and commercial operations along the majority of the hydrocarbon value chain allow it to offer a full spectrum of midstream and marketing services to the energy sector. Pembina is committed to identifying additional opportunities to connect hydrocarbon production to new demand locations through the development of infrastructure that would extend Pembina's service offering even further along the hydrocarbon value chain. These new developments will contribute to ensuring that hydrocarbons produced in the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin and the other basins where Pembina operates can reach the highest value markets throughout the world. Pembina strives to provide sustainable, industry-leading total returns for our investors; reliable and value-added services for our customers; a net positive impact to communities; and a safe, respectful, collaborative and fair work culture for our employees. Pembina's strategy is to: Preserve value by providing safe, environmentally conscious, cost-effective and reliable services; by providing safe, environmentally conscious, cost-effective and reliable services; Diversify by providing integrated solutions which enhance profitability and customer service; by providing integrated solutions which enhance profitability and customer service; Implement Growth by pursuing projects or assets that are expected to generate cash flow per share accretion and capture long-life, economic hydrocarbon reserves; and by pursuing projects or assets that are expected to generate cash flow per share accretion and capture long-life, economic hydrocarbon reserves; and Secure Global Markets by understanding what the world needs, where they need it, and delivering it. Pembina is structured into three Divisions: Pipelines Division, Facilities Division and Marketing & New Ventures Division. Pembina's common shares trade on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges under PPL and PBA, respectively. For more information, visit www.pembina.com. Forward-Looking Information and Statements This news release contains certain forward-looking information and statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements") that are based on Pembina's current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends. In this news release, such forward-looking information and statements can be identified by terminology such as "should", "may", "will", "continue", "if", "to be", "expects", and similar expressions. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements, relating to future dividends which may be declared on Pembina's common and preferred shares, the dividend payments and the tax treatment thereof. These forward-looking statements are being made by Pembina based on certain assumptions that Pembina has made in respect thereof as at the date of this news release, regarding, among other things: the ability of Pembina and any required third parties to effectively engage with stakeholders; oil and gas industry exploration and development activity levels; the success of Pembina's operations and growth projects; prevailing commodity prices, margins, volumes and exchange rates; that Pembina's future results of operations will be consistent with past performance and management expectations in relation thereto; the continued availability of capital at attractive prices to fund future capital requirements relating to existing assets and projects, including but not limited to future capital expenditures relating to expansion, upgrades and maintenance shutdowns; that any third party projects relating to Pembina's growth projects will be sanctioned and completed as expected; that any required commercial agreements can be reached; that all required regulatory and environmental approvals can be obtained on the necessary terms in a timely manner; that counterparties to material agreements will continue to perform in a timely manner; that there are no unforeseen events preventing the performance of contracts; that there are no unforeseen material construction, integrity or other costs related to current growth projects or current operations; and prevailing interest and tax rates. Although Pembina believes the expectations and material factors and assumptions reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date hereof, there can be no assurance that these expectations, factors and assumptions will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned that events or circumstances could cause results to differ materially from those predicted, forecasted or projected. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not occur, which may cause actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and information. These known and unknown risks and uncertainties, include, but are not limited to: the regulatory environment and decisions; the ability of Pembina to raise sufficient capital (or to raise sufficient capital on favourable terms) to fund future expansions and growth projects and satisfy future commitments; failure to negotiate and conclude any required commercial agreements or failure to obtain project sanctioning; increased construction costs, or construction delays, on Pembina's expansion and growth projects; labour and material shortages; non-performance of agreements in accordance with their terms; the impact of competitive entities and pricing; reliance on key industry partners, alliances and agreements; the strength and operations of the oil and natural gas production industry and related commodity prices; the continuation or completion of third-party projects; actions by governmental or regulatory authorities including changes in tax laws and treatment, changes in royalty rates or increased environmental regulation; adverse general economic and market conditions in Canada, North America and elsewhere; construction delays; labour and material shortages; and certain other risks detailed from time to time in Pembina's public disclosure documents including, among other things, those detailed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Pembina's management's discussion and analysis and annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2017, which can be found at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by the above statements and speak only as of the date of this document. Pembina does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements or information contained herein, except as required by applicable laws. SOURCE Pembina Pipeline Corporation Related Links http://www.pembina.com LONDON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Pharmaceutical companies are doing a good job of educating EU5 physicians using sales reps, but their websites for physicians could use some work and their social media messaging severely misses the mark, data from the Taking the Pulse Europe 2018 study by DRG Digital | Manhattan Research reveal. Physician satisfaction with pharmaceutical company sales reps and Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) is very high in EU5 markets. Asked which pharmaceutical companies were providing them high-quality meetings with sales reps and MSLs, only 1 in 10 were unable to name a standout company. That compares favourably to the U.S., where 12% of physicians said no pharmaceutical company is providing a quality rep experience, or Sweden , where 16% of physicians agreed. , where 16% of physicians agreed. However, there was considerable variability in physicians' trust in reps by country and specialty. On the low end of the spectrum, fewer than 1 in 4 UK neurologists (23%) and Spanish cardiologists (24%) said they trust the answers pharmaceutical company reps provide. Conversely, more than two-thirds of Spanish anaesthesiologists (67%) and French rheumatologists (67%) trust reps' answers to their questions. Satisfaction with pharmaceutical company websites is markedly lower than with reps 1 in 4 physicians (24%) could not name a pharmaceutical company providing high-quality resources through its websites for healthcare professionals. Novo Nordisk was the company most-cited by endocrinologists for providing a quality HCP website experience, while Roche edged out Janssen among oncologists and Novartis narrowly beat out Allergan to take top honours among ophthalmologists. One UK oncologist suggested pharmaceutical firms streamline disjointed websites built around siloed franchises or divisions. "Often companies have multiple web portals for different areas," said the oncologist. "I am not interested in their corporate structure I want to be able to quickly access relevant information regarding a particular disease or drug." Pharmaceutical companies' social presence is less than ideal, EU5 physicians say 56% could not name a pharmaceutical company offering quality information, services or programs via social media. Key factors EU5 physicians look at in assessing a pharmaceutical company's social media presence include tone, prominence and frequency of pharmaceutical firms' social messaging. These physicians evince a strong preference for clinical content on HCP-only online communities over content on open social networks. "These findings really illustrate where pharmaceutical companies have some work to do in providing European physicians a quality website experience," said Jeff Wray, Director of Europe and APAC Research at DRG Digital. "Across the board, we're seeing that pharmaceutical company websites fail physicians when they can't quickly and intuitively find the resources they need, for organisational or design reasons." DRG Digital | Manhattan Research has expanded its European research offering in 2018, opening a London office anchored by Mr. Wray and European Commercial Director Carlos Casanova. The company has also added to its portfolio of European studies, which include the long running Taking the Pulse Europe physician studies and Cybercitizen Health Europe patient studies, along with a new study publishing in November entitled Global Multichannel Payer Communication. That study will feature insights into formulary decision-makers' information-seeking and decision-making behaviours across a number of European and global markets. A poster presentation drawing on a related study of U.S. payers has been accepted for presentation at next month's congress of The Professional Society for Health Economics and Outcomes Research ISPOR Europe 2018 congress. The aforementioned findings come from our 2018 Taking the Pulse Europe study of 1,429 physicians in the UK, Germany, France, Italy and Spain (data are also available for the Nordic countries). Full results of the studies, fielded online over the summer of 2018, are available to pharmaceutical companies and industry partners. To request information about our patient, physician and payer studies, specific data segments or study methodology, email [email protected]. About DRG Digital | Manhattan Research DRG Digital, part of DRG, is the life science industry's partner for data-driven customer engagement and commercial innovation. DRG Digital's Manhattan Research studies are the longest-running studies of multichannel attitudes and behaviours among healthcare customers. Brands, marketers and digital teams at 40+ leading life sciences companies rely on our experts, research and intelligence to understand their customers and engage them with the right channels, content, messaging and innovations. Visit www.DRGDigital.com or follow @DRGDigital to keep up to date on our analysts' thinking and access eBooks, infographics, webinars and other resources. About Decision Resources Group DRG, a subsidiary of Piramal Enterprises Ltd., is the premier source for global healthcare data and market intelligence. A trusted partner for over 20 years, DRG helps companies competing in the global healthcare industry make informed business decisions. Organizations committed to developing and delivering life-changing therapies to patients rely on DRG's in-house team of expert healthcare analysts, data scientists, and consultants for critical guidance. DRG products and services, built on extensive data assets and delivered by experts, empower organizations to succeed in complex healthcare markets. To learn more, visit www.decisionresourcesgroup.com. Media contact: Sydney Ferber, +1-212-414-7598, [email protected] SOURCE Decision Resources Group Related Links http://www.decisionresourcesgroup.com SOURCE Decision Resources Group Related Links http://www.decisionresourcesgroup.com DUBLIN, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Poland Logistics and Warehousing Market Outlook to 2022- by Domestic and International Freight Forwarding, Warehousing, Express Logistics, Cold Chain, Third Party Logistics, E-commerce Logistics" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The report also covers Poland warehousing market by geography (Warsaw, Silesia, Poznan, and others), by business model (Industrial/ Retail/ Agriculture, Container Freight/ inland Container Deport and Cold Storage), cross comparison of various regions in Poland on the basis of headline rent, effective rent and vacancy rate, classification of major warehousing hubs in Poland, competitive scenario, future outlook and projections. The report also covers Poland express logistics market by air and ground express, by B2B, B2C and C2C segment, by international and domestic express logistics service, competitive scenario, future outlook. Poland Logistics Market Size Poland logistics market consists of a number of organized and unorganized players consisting of freight forwarders specializing in land, sea or air transportation, warehouse service providers, companies specializing in cold chain services, courier, express and parcel service providers and total logistics services providers that operate a multimodal transport model. In 2016, Poland was ranked 33rd in LPI index which shows that the logistics industry in Poland has a huge potential to grow. The logistics industry grew robustly with a single digit CAGR from 2012 to 2017. The rise in domestic consumption has fuelled growth in the retail and FMCG sector which has further acted as a growth catalyst for the logistics industry. Poland is one of the biggest markets in Central and Eastern Europe. The country works as a transit hub between Eastern and Western Europe, due to which the logistics center of Europe is shifting from Germany to Poland. Freight Forwarding Market Poland freight forwarding market has witnessed double digit growth during 2012-2017. The highest contributor was the transportation through land, which included transport through road, rail and pipeline. In 2016, road and rail transport contributed highest to the total freight forwarding market whereas pipeline and water transport followed the segment. The accession of Poland to the EU in 2004 has opened the gates of the EU countries for the Polish industries. Strong interconnectivity of the EU countries through road and rail has propelled the Polish freight forwarding industry forward. Warehousing Market The warehousing market in Poland grew at a positive CAGR in 2017 due to expansion in the FMCG sector, increase in the imported goods, increased demand for the outsourcing of warehouse services, rising e-commerce industry, and increase in the warehouses and its capacity. Industrial/Retail/Agriculture sector is the largest contributor to the warehousing sector. Container freight and inland container deport warehousing has contributed second highest share in Poland warehousing market in 2016. Warsaw contributed highest revenue in Poland warehousing market in 2017 owing to the industrial parks situated in the suburbs of the Warsaw city. Express Delivery Market The market for express deliveries in the country is small; however, it has witnessed double digit growth in the past few years. The market has grown at a double digit CAGR growth during 2012-2017. The market revenues have augmented owing to the booming E-commerce industry. Air express logistics has dominated the Poland express logistics in 2017. Ground express witnessed lower revenue market share in 2017. B2B segment has dominated the express logistics market in Poland during 2017. It was followed by B2C segment which while C2C has contributed the least in the express logistics market. The major players of Express logistic in Poland include Poczta Polska S.A and InPost Third Party Logistics Market Third party logistics (3PL) segment has witnessed a robust growth in past few years in Poland. The market is growing at a positive CAGR during 2012-2017. The revenues have increased from sizeably in 2016 as the trend for outsourcing gaining prominence in the country. The leading companies in the segment are DHL, Kuehne + Nagel, DPD Polska, PKP Cargo, Lotos Kolej and others. Cold Chain Market The market has been growing with a steady pace in the past few years owing to the increasing contribution from the e-commerce industry as the number of people opting for online grocery and food delivery have increased significantly. The Polish cold chain logistics market was dominated by cold storage in 2017. Cold chain services used for storage and transportation of meat and seafood were the highest contributor to the revenue of the cold chain industry. It was followed by Vaccine & pharmaceutical products, fruits & vegetables and bakery and confectionary products respectively. The leading companies in the market are Pago Cold Chain, Robano Logistics, Frigo Logistics and Frigolanda Cold Logistics Poland Logistics Market Future The future for Poland logistics sector poses enormous opportunity for the sector in the successive years. The exports of the country are expected to increase substantially in the future. The rising manufacturing sector along with growth in the agricultural sector will augment the exports in the country. The E-commerce industry is likely to continue its growth which will act as a growth catalyst for the logistics industry in Poland. Key Topics Covered: 1. Executive Summary 2. Appendix 3. Logistics Infrastructure In Poland Logistics Market 4. Value Chain Analysis For Poland Logistics Market 5. Poland Logistics Market 6. Poland Logistics Market Segmentation 7. Poland Freight Forwarding Market 8. Poland Warehousing Market 9. Poland Express Logistics Market 10. Snapshot Of Poland Cold Chain Logistics 11. Snapshot Of Poland Third Party Logistics Market 12. Growth Drivers And Trends In Poland Logistics Market 13. Issues And Challenges In Poland Logistics Market 14. Industry Norms And Government Regulations In Poland Logistics Market 15. Mergers And Acquisitions In Poland Logistics Market 16. Matrix Of Major Companies In Poland Logistics Market 17. Competitive Landscape Of Major Players In Poland Logistics Market 18. Company Profiles For Major Players In Poland Logistics Market 19. Analyst Recommendations 20. Macroeconomic Factors Affecting Poland Logistics Market Companies Mentioned DB Schenker DHL Poland DPD Polska DSV Group Kuehne + Nagel LOTOS Kolej Sp. Z. o. o PKP Cargo Raben Group Yusen Logistics (Polska) Sp. z o.o. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/v4hlrr/poland_logistics?w=5 Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 SOURCE Research and Markets Related Links http://www.researchandmarkets.com BOGOTA, Colombia, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- New Bonds Offering The Republic of Colombia (" Colombia ") announced today the commencement of a global offering (the " New Bonds Offering ") of its global bonds to be denominated in U.S. dollars due 2029 (the " New Bonds "). The New Bonds offered may include New Bonds that may be issued and sold to certain tendering holders in the Tender Offer (as described below). Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC will serve as Joint Book-Running Managers for the New Bonds Offering. The New Bonds Offering is being made only by means of a preliminary prospectus supplement and an accompanying base prospectus. Copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement and the related prospectus for the New Bonds Offering may be obtained by contacting: Citigroup Global Markets Inc., by calling +1-800-831-9146 (U.S. toll free), Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, by calling +1-800-221-1037 (U.S. toll free), or J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, by calling +1-866-846-2874 (U.S. toll free). Application will be made to have the New Bonds listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and admitted to trading on the Euro MTF Market of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Tender Offer Colombia also announced today that it has commenced an offer to purchase for cash (the " Tender Offer ") its outstanding 7.375% Notes due 2019 (the " Old Bonds ") in an aggregate principal amount that will not result in an aggregate Purchase Price that exceeds an amount determined by Colombia in its sole discretion (the " Maximum Purchase Amount "). The Tender Offer is made on the terms and subject to the conditions contained in the Offer to Purchase, dated October 3, 2018 (the " Offer to Purchase "), including the pricing of the issue of the New Bonds in an amount and on terms and subject to conditions acceptable to Colombia, which is expected to occur today. All capitalized terms used but not defined under the heading "Tender Offer" in this communication have the respective meanings specified in the Offer to Purchase. The tender period (the " Tender Period ") will commence at open of market, New York time, on Wednesday, October 3, 2018, and, unless extended or earlier terminated by Colombia in its sole discretion, the Tender Period will expire for Non-Preferred Tenders at 12:00 p.m., New York City time, and, for Preferred Tenders, at 3:00 p.m., New York City time, on Wednesday, October 3, 2018. Colombia expects to announce the Maximum Purchase Amount, the aggregate Purchase Price of Preferred and Non-Preferred Tenders of the Old Bonds that have been accepted and whether any proration has occurred on Thursday, October 4, 2018. The settlement of the Tender Offer is scheduled to occur on Wednesday, October 10, 2018 (the " Tender Offer Settlement Date ") and is subject to change without notice. The purchase price to be paid for the Old Bonds that are tendered and accepted pursuant to the Tender Offer will be the fixed price set forth in the table below. Holders of the Old Bonds participating in the Tender Offer will also receive any accrued and unpaid interest on their Old Bonds up to (but excluding) the Tender Offer Settlement Date (" Accrued Interest "). Table: Old Bonds Old Bonds Outstanding Principal Amount as of October 2, 2018 ISIN CUSIP Purchase Price(1) 7.375% Notes due 2019 (the "Old Bonds") U.S.$2,000,000,000 US195325BL83 195325BL8 U.S.$1,021.25 (1) Per U.S. $1,000 principal amount of Old Bonds tendered and accepted for purchase. Holders will also receive Accrued Interest on Old Bonds tendered and accepted for purchase. During the Tender Period, a holder of Old Bonds may place orders to tender Old Bonds (" Tender Orders ") only through any of the Dealer Managers. If a holder does not have an account with a Dealer Manager and desires to tender its Old Bonds, it may do so through a broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company, other financial institution or other custodian, that has an account with a Dealer Manager. Holders will NOT be able to submit tenders through Euroclear Bank SA/NV, Clearstream Banking, S.A. or the Depository Trust Company (" DTC ") system. J.P. Morgan Securities LLC as the billing and delivering bank for the Tender Offer (in such capacity, the " Billing and Delivering Bank ") will consolidate all Tender Orders and accept Old Bonds for purchase pursuant to the terms and conditions in the Offer to Purchase on behalf of Colombia, subject to proration as described in the Offer to Purchase, on Thursday, October 4, 2018 or as soon as possible thereafter. Failure to deliver Old Bonds on time may result, in Colombia's sole discretion, in any of the following: (i) the cancellation of a holder's tender and the holder becoming liable for any damages resulting from that failure, and/or (ii) the delivery of a buy-in notice for the purchase of such Old Bonds, executed in accordance with customary brokerage practices for corporate fixed income securities, and/or (iii) in the case of Preferred Tenders, the cancellation of a holder's tender and the holder remaining obligated to purchase its allocation of New Bonds in respect of its related Indication of Interest (as defined in the Offer to Purchase). Tender Orders may be subject to proration. Tender Orders made by holders who have submitted an equivalent-sized Indication of Interest for the New Bonds prior to the pricing of the New Bonds Offering at a price that is acceptable to Colombia will be accepted before any other Tender Orders. To the extent proration occurs, the Billing and Delivering Bank will accept Old Bonds with appropriate adjustments to avoid the purchase of Old Bonds in principal amounts other than Permitted Tender Amounts (as defined in the Offer to Purchase). Each holder submitting Tender Orders shall be deemed to represent to Colombia, the Dealer Managers and the Billing and Delivering Bank that such holder held, from the time of its submission of its Tender Order through the Expiration Time, at least the amount of Old Bonds are being tendered. All Old Bonds that are tendered pursuant to Tender Orders and are accepted by Colombia will be purchased on behalf of Colombia by the Billing and Delivering Bank. There is no letter of transmittal for the Tender Offer. Old Bonds held through DTC must be delivered for settlement no later than 3:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Tender Offer Settlement Date. If a holder holds Old Bonds through Euroclear or Clearstream, the latest process it can use to deliver its Old Bonds is the overnight process, one day prior to the Settlement Date; holders may not use the optional daylight process. Holders will not have withdrawal rights with respect to any tenders of Old Bonds in the Tender Offer. Old Bonds accepted for purchase will be settled on a delivery versus payment basis in accordance with customary brokerage practices for corporate fixed income securities. Colombia may, but is not required to, issue and sell New Bonds to holders who validly tender their Old Bonds pursuant to the Tender Offer and place firm orders for New Bonds during the Tender Period (as well as investors that are not participating in the Tender Offer). If Colombia determines to issue and sell New Bonds to such holders, the scheduled settlement date for the New Bonds is expected to occur on Friday, October 12, 2018 (the " Offering Settlement Date "). The Tender Offer is subject to Colombia's right, at its sole discretion and subject to applicable law, to extend, terminate, withdraw, or amend the Tender Offer at any time. Each of the Dealer Managers and Colombia reserves the right, in the sole discretion of each of them, not to accept tenders for any reason. The Offer to Purchase may be downloaded from the Information Agent's website at www.dfking.com/colombia or obtained from the Information Agent, D.F. King & Co., Inc., at 1-877-896-3199 or from any of the Dealer Managers. The Dealer Managers for the Tender Offer are: Citigroup Global Markets Inc. Attention: Liability Management Group 388 Greenwich Street New York, NY 10013 Collect: 1-212-723-6106 Toll-Free: 1-800-558-3745 Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC Attention: Liability Management Group Eleven Madison Avenue New York, NY 10010 Collect: 1-212-538-2147 Toll-Free: 1-800-820-1653 J.P. Morgan Securities LLC Attention: Latin America Debt Capital Markets 383 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10179 Collect: 1-212-834-7279 Toll-Free: 1-866-846-2874 The Billing and Delivering Bank for this Tender Offer is: J.P. Morgan Securities LLC. Questions regarding the Tender Offer may be directed to the Dealer Managers at the above contact. Colombia has filed a registration statement (including the prospectus) and the preliminary prospectus supplement with the SEC for the New Bonds Offering. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus in that registration statement and other documents Colombia has filed with the SEC for more complete information about Colombia and such New Bonds Offering. You may get these documents for free by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. Alternatively, the Joint Book-Running Managers, the Dealer Managers or the Information Agent, as the case may be, will arrange to send you the prospectus supplement and the prospectus if you request it by calling any one of them at the numbers specified above. Important Notice The distribution of materials relating to the New Bonds Offering and the Tender Offer and the transactions contemplated by the New Bonds Offering and the Tender Offer may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions. Each of the New Bonds Offering and the Tender Offer is void in all jurisdictions where it is prohibited. If materials relating to the New Bonds Offering or the Tender Offer come into a holder's possession, the holder is required by Colombia to inform itself of and to observe all of these restrictions. The materials relating to the New Bonds Offering or the Tender Offer, including this communication, do not constitute, and may not be used in connection with, an offer or solicitation in any place where offers or solicitations are not permitted by law. If a jurisdiction requires that the New Bonds Offering or the Tender Offer be made by a licensed broker or dealer and a Dealer Manager or any affiliate of a Dealer Manager is a licensed broker or dealer in that jurisdiction, the New Bonds Offering or the Tender Offer, as the case may be, shall be deemed to be made by the Dealer Manager or such affiliate on behalf of Colombia in that jurisdiction. Owners who may lawfully participate in the Tender Offer in accordance with the terms thereof are referred to as "holders." This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities nor will there be any sale of the New Bonds in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction. The offering of the New Bonds will be made only by means of the preliminary prospectus and the accompanying prospectus supplement and prospectus. The New Bonds may be sold in Canada only to purchasers purchasing, or deemed to be purchasing, as principal that are accredited investors, as defined in National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions or subsection 73.3(1) of the Securities Act (Ontario), and are permitted clients, as defined in National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations, and who are not individuals. Any resale of the New Bonds must be made in accordance with an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the prospectus requirements of applicable securities laws. The Offer to Purchase is not available to residents of Canada. The New Bonds and the Old Bonds have not and will not be registered under Law No. 18,045, as amended, of Chile, with the Financial Market Commission (Comision para el Mercado Financiero or "CMF") as the legal successor of the Superintendency of Securities and Insurance and, accordingly, the New Bonds and the Old Bonds cannot and will not be offered or sold to persons in Chile except in circumstances which have not resulted and will not result in a public offering under Chilean law, and/or in compliance with Rule (Norma de Caracter General) No. 336, dated June 27, 2012, issued by the CMF ("CMF Rule 336"). The New Bonds may not be offered, sold or negotiated in Colombia, except in compliance with Part 4 of Decree 2555 of 2010. The Offer to Purchase and the New Bonds Offering do not constitute and may not be used for, or in connection with, a public offering as defined under Colombian law. In relation to each member of the European Economic Area that have implemented the Prospectus Directive, the New Bonds have not and may not be offered, sold or otherwise made available to any retail investor in the European Economic Area. For the purposes of this provision the expression "retail investor" means a person who is one (or more) of the following: (a) a retail client as defined in point (11) of Article 4(1) of MiFID II; or (b) a customer within the meaning of the Insurance Mediation Directive, where that customer would not qualify as a professional client as defined in point (10) of Article 4(1) of MiFID II. The Old Bonds and New Bonds may not be offered or sold and will not be offered or sold in Hong Kong by means of any document other than (a) in circumstances which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap. 32, Laws of Hong Kong) (the "CWUMPO"), or (b) to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571, Laws of Hong Kong) (the "SFO") and any rules made thereunder, or (c) in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a "prospectus" as defined in the CWUMPO. No advertisement, invitation or document relating to the Old Bonds or New Bonds has been or will be issued, or has been or will be in the possession of any person for the purpose of issue (in each case whether in Hong Kong or elsewhere), which is directed at, or the contents of which are likely to be accessed or read by, the public in Hong Kong (except if permitted to do so under the securities laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to the Old Bonds or New Bonds which are or are intended to be disposed of only to persons outside Hong Kong or only to "professional investors" as defined in the SFO and any rules made thereunder. The Old Bonds and the New Bonds, and the Offer to Purchase and the New Bonds Offering prospectus supplement, and any other documents or materials related to such offers have not and will not be registered with the Italian Securities Exchange Commission (Commissione Nazionale per le Societa e la Borsa or "CONSOB") pursuant to applicable Italian laws and regulations. The Offer to Purchase and the New Bond Offering are being carried out pursuant to the exemptions provided for, with respect to the Offer to Purchase, in Article 101 bis, paragraph 3 bis of Legislative Decree No. 58 of 24 February 1998, as amended (the "Consolidated Financial Act") and Article 35 bis, paragraph 4, of CONSOB Regulation No. 11971 of 14 May 1999, as amended; and, with respect to the New Bonds Offering, in article 100 of the Legislative Decree No. 58 of 24 February 1998, as amended (the "Consolidated Financial Act") and article 34-ter, paragraph 1, letter e) of CONSOB Regulation No. 11971 of 14 May 1999, as amended (the "Issuers Regulation"). Holders or beneficial owners of the Old Bonds that are resident and/or located in Italy can tender the Old Bonds for purchase, and the New Bonds Offerings can be offered, sold and delivered, through authorized persons (such as investment firms, banks or financial intermediaries permitted to conduct such activities in Italy in accordance with the Consolidated Financial Actu, the CONSOB Regulation No. 20307 of 15 February 2018, as amended, and Legislative Decree No. 385 of September 1, 1993, as amended) and in compliance with any other applicable laws and regulations or with any requirements imposed by CONSOB or any other Italian authority. Each intermediary must comply with the applicable laws and regulations concerning information duties vis a vis its clients in connection with the bonds or the relevant offering. The Old Bonds and the New Bonds have not been and will not be registered under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act of Japan (Act No. 25 of 1948, as amended, the "Financial Instruments and Exchange Act") and each manager has represented and agreed that it has not offered or sold, and will not offer or sell any Old Bonds or New Bonds, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to, or for the benefit of, any resident of Japan (as defined under Article 6, Paragraph 1, Item 5 of the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act of Japan (Act No. 228 of 1949, as amended)), or to others for re-offering or resale, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to, or for the benefit of, a resident of Japan, except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of, and otherwise in compliance with, the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act and any other applicable laws, regulations and ministerial guidelines of Japan. The Offer to Purchase, nor any other documents or materials relating to the Offer to Purchase have been approved by or will be submitted for the approval of, the Mexican National Banking and Securities Commission (Comision Nacional Bancaria y de Valores) and, the New Bonds have not been and will not be registered with the Mexican National Securities Registry (Registro Nacional de Valores), and therefore the Old Bonds and New Bonds have not and may not be offered or sold publicly in Mexico. However, investors that qualify as institutional or qualified investors pursuant to the private placement exemption set forth in article 8 of the Mexican Securities Market Law (Ley del Mercado de Valores), may be contacted in connection with, and may participate in the Offer to Purchase, and can be offered with or purchase New Bonds. The information contained in the New Bonds Offering has not and will not be registered with or approved by SMV, SBS or the Lima Stock Exchange. The New Bonds Offering and the Offer to Purchase can only be addressed to institutional investors. The New Bond Offering prospectus supplement, and the Offer to Purchase have not been and will not be registered as a prospectus with the Monetary Authority of Singapore. The Offer to Purchase does not constitute an offering of securities in Singapore pursuant to the Securities and Futures Act, Chapter 289 of Singapore. The New Bonds will not be offered or sold or cause that such New Bonds to be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase and will not offer or sell such New Bonds or cause such New Bonds to be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, and has not circulated or distributed, nor will it circulate or distribute, this prospectus supplement or any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or invitation for subscription or purchase, of such New Bonds, whether directly or indirectly, to persons in Singapore other than (i) to an institutional investor under Section 274 of the Securities and Futures Act, Chapter 289 of Singapore (the "SFA"), (ii) to a relevant person pursuant to Section 275(1), or any person pursuant to Section 275(1A), and in accordance with the conditions specified in Section 275, of the SFA, or (iii) otherwise pursuant to, and in accordance with the conditions of, any other applicable provision of the SFA. Where the New Bonds are subscribed or purchased in reliance on an exemption under Sections 274 or 275 of the SFA, the New Bonds shall not be sold within the period of six months from the date of the initial acquisition of the bonds, except to any of the following persons: an institutional investor (as defined in Section 4A of the SFA); a relevant person (as defined in Section 275(2) of the SFA); or any person pursuant to an offer referred to in Section 275(1A) of the SFA, unless expressly specified otherwise in Section 276(7) of the SFA or Regulation 32 of the Securities and Futures (Offers of Investments) (Shares and Debentures) Regulations 2005 of Singapore (the "SFR"). Where the New Bonds are subscribed or purchased under Section 275 of the SFA by a relevant person which is: a corporation (which is not an accredited investor (as defined in Section 4A of the SFA)) the sole business of which is to hold investments and the entire share capital of which is owned by one or more individuals, each of whom is an accredited investor; or a trust (where the trustee is not an accredited investor) whose sole purpose is to hold investments and each beneficiary of the trust is an individual who is an accredited investor, securities (as defined in Section 239(1) of the SFA) of that corporation or the beneficiaries' rights and interest (howsoever described) in that trust shall not be transferred within six months after that corporation or that trust has acquired the New Bonds pursuant to an offer made under Section 275 of the SFA except: to an institutional investor or to a relevant person defined in Section 275(2) of the SFA, or to any person arising from an offer referred to in Section 275(1A) or Section 276(4)(i)(B) of the SFA; where no consideration is or will be given for the transfer; where the transfer is by operation of law; as specified in Section 276(7) of the SFA; or as specified in Regulation 32 of the SFR. The New Bonds may not be publicly offered, sold or otherwise advertised, directly or indirectly, in or from Switzerland, and will not be listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange or on any other exchange or regulated trading venue in Switzerland. This document, or any other offering or marketing material relating to the Old Bonds and the New Bonds, does not constitute a prospectus within the meaning of Arts. 652a or 1156 of the Swiss Federal Code of Obligations or a listing prospectus within the meaning of the Listing Rules of the SIX Swiss Exchange or any other exchange or regulated trading venue in Switzerland and neither the New Bonds Offering prospectus supplement nor any other offering or marketing material relating to the offer of the Old Bonds or the New Bonds may be publicly distributed or otherwise made publicly available in Switzerland. Neither the communication of Offer to Purchase nor any other offer material relating to the Offer to Purchase has been approved by an authorized person for the purposes of section 21 of the UK Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. The Offer to Purchase and the New Bond Offering prospectus supplement is only being distributed to and is only directed at (i) persons who are outside the United Kingdom or (ii) to investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (as so amended, the "Order") or (iii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Articles 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such other persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). Any investment or investment activity to which the Offer to Purchase relates is available only to relevant persons and will be engaged in only with relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on the Offer to Purchase or any of its contents. The New Bonds will only be available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire the bonds will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this prospectus supplement or any of its contents. Contact information: D.F. King & Co., Inc. 48 Wall Street, 22nd Floor New York, New York 10005 Toll Free: 1-877-896-3199 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dfking.com/colombia ANY DISCLAIMERS OR OTHER NOTICES THAT MAY APPEAR AFTER THIS MESSAGE ARE NOT APPLICABLE TO THIS COMMUNICATION AND SHOULD BE DISREGARDED. SUCH DISCLAIMERS OR OTHER NOTICES WERE AUTOMATICALLY GENERATED AS A RESULT OF THIS COMMUNICATION BEING SENT VIA BLOOMBERG OR ANOTHER EMAIL SYSTEM. SOURCE Republic of Colombia EL PASO, Texas, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Interstate Capital, a leading North American factoring company, announced today the next installment in its educational series on improving business cash flow, focused on addressing the hidden costs of accepting late payments. The full piece entitled, "8 Ways Your Business Pays When Your Customers Don't," is now available to read at www.InterstateCapital.com. As part of its educational series on improving business cash flow, North America's leading factoring company, Interstate Capital, is addressing the hidden costs of accepting late payments. According to research conducted by Atradius, almost 91 percent of businesses said that they've been impacted by delinquent payments. The widespread nature of the issue can lead businesses into a blind acceptance, leaving many to tolerate this potentially cash flow-damaging practice as an accepted cost of doing business. The article explains the cyclical nature and true costs associated with late payments. A business owner receives late payment from a client. The business owner then pays its own vendors late, many times incurring significant late fees in the process. But inconsistent cash flow also prevents business owners from capitalizing on business opportunities that may arise or delay important investments. "When it gets to this level, we start to see more word-of-mouth issues," says Tony Furman, Chief Operating Officer at Interstate Capital. "Suppliers get antsy and either fail to deliver or stop providing favorable terms because they're afraid they won't get paid. Employees start leaving the company because they're expecting it to go under." Research has also shown that the longer an invoice remains unpaid, the less chance there is of collecting any payment at all. No income means businesses then cut back on necessary operating costs, such as marketing and sales, in order to simply maintain minimal operating expenses. Furman says that there are proactive and preventive measures that business owners can take to improve their cash flow. "Companies struggling with slow payments can employ services like invoice factoring to dramatically cut down their days to payment." Invoice factoring is the process of a business selling its invoices to a third party. The invoice factoring provider pays the business a significant portion of their outstanding invoices, and then handles the collections of the invoice from the business owner's client. This can significantly reduce delinquent payments and cut down the time spent on submitting invoices and collections. "Most people don't realize how damaging late payments can be," Furman says. "Nor do they always know how easy it is to get approved for a solution like invoice factoring and how cost-effective it is." Businesses interested in learning more about factoring can visit Interstate Capital's website for details, while those ready to find out what rates they qualify for can get a free instant quote by going to www.InterstateCapital.com/Instant-Online-Rate-Quote. About Interstate Capital: Interstate Capital purchases nearly $1 billion in invoices annually. Established in 1993, the company has successfully funded more than 10,000 growing companies throughout the United States and Canada, speeding up cash flow and improving profitability. Interstate Capital is a division of Triumph Business Capital. Interstate Capital is presently accepting applications from B2B providers. Those who would like to speed up their client payments are urged to visit www.InterstateCapital.com for a free quote today. Press Contact: Eric Baca Phone: 469-312-7166 [email protected] SOURCE Interstate Capital Related Links http://www.InterstateCapital.com TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Thomson Reuters (TSX /NYSE: TRI) today announced the pricing for its previously announced cash tender offer (the "Tender Offer") to purchase up to an aggregate principal amount of US$650 million (the "Maximum Amount") of debt securities listed in the table below (collectively, the "Notes"). As more than the Maximum Amount of Notes was validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) at or before the Early Tender Deadline, Thomson Reuters also announced that it intends to accept for purchase approximately US$650 million principal amount of Notes validly tendered and not withdrawn at or before the Early Tender Deadline, subject to all conditions to the Tender Offer having been either satisfied or waived by Thomson Reuters. The Tender Offer is being made pursuant to, and subject to the terms and conditions in, an offer to purchase, dated September 19, 2018 (the "Offer to Purchase"), which sets forth a description of the terms of the Tender Offer. The total consideration to be paid in the Tender Offer for each series of Notes being purchased was determined today in the manner described in the Offer to Purchase by reference to the applicable fixed spread specified for such series over the yield based on the bid-side price of the applicable U.S. Treasury Security, as set forth in the table below. The reference yields for the Tender Offer were determined at 11:00 a.m., New York City time, today. Holders who validly tendered and did not validly withdraw Notes at or prior to the Early Tender Deadline (as defined below) that are accepted for purchase will receive the total consideration, which includes an early tender premium of US$30 per US$1,000 principal amount of Notes accepted for purchase (the "Early Tender Premium"). Holders whose Notes are accepted for purchase pursuant to the Tender Offer will also receive accrued and unpaid interest on their purchased Notes from, and including, the last interest payment date for such Notes to, but excluding, the settlement date for such Notes. The settlement for Notes that were validly tendered and not withdrawn at or before the Early Tender Deadline and accepted for purchase is expected to take place on October 5, 2018 (the "Initial Settlement Date"), subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions described in the Offer to Purchase under the heading "Terms of the Tender Offer - Conditions of the Tender Offer." Thomson Reuters intends to accept for purchase approximately US$650 million principal amount of Notes on the Initial Settlement Date as set forth in the table below. All of the Notes in Acceptance Priority Levels 1 and 2 that were validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) at or prior to the Early Tender Deadline are expected to be accepted for purchase. The proration factor for the Notes in Acceptance Priority Level 3 will be approximately 69%. No Notes in Acceptance Priority Levels 4 or 5 are being purchased. Title of Security CUSIP Number Aggregate Principal Amount Outstanding Acceptance Priority Level Aggregate Principal Amount Expected to be Accepted for Purchase on the Initial Settlement Date Reference U.S. Treasury Security Thomson Reuters Eikon Reference Page(1) Fixed Spread (basis points) Reference Yield Total Consideration (2)(3) 4.50% Notes due May 2043 884903BM6 US$350,000,000 1 US$230,995,000 3.125% due 05/15/2048 912810SA7= 170 3.255% US$935.62 3.95% Notes due Sept. 2021 884903BK0 US$350,000,000 2 US$211,106,000 2.750% due 09/15/2021 9128285A4= 55 2.914% US$1,012.62 3.85% Notes due Sept. 2024 884903BT1 US$450,000,000 3 US$207,908,000 2.750% due 08/31/2023 9128284X5= 95 2.976% US$995.98 3.35% Notes due May 2026 884903BV6 US$500,000,000 4 US$0 2.875% due 08/15/2028 9128284N7= 130 N/A N/A 4.30% Notes due Nov. 2023 884903BQ7 US$600,000,000 5 US$0 2.750% due 08/31/2023 9128284X5= 75 N/A N/A (1) The applicable page on Thomson Reuters Eikon from which the Lead Dealer Managers quoted the bid-side prices of the applicable Reference U.S. Treasury Security. (2) Per US$1,000 principal amount of Notes. Includes the Early Tender Premium. (3) In addition, holders will receive accrued and unpaid interest from, and including, the last interest payment date for such Notes to, but excluding, the settlement date for such Notes. As more than the Maximum Amount of Notes was validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) at or before the Early Tender Deadline, Thomson Reuters will not accept for purchase any further tenders of Notes. Notes validly tendered pursuant to the Tender Offer and not accepted for purchase due to the acceptance priority levels or due to proration will be promptly returned to the tendering holders. Additional Information This news release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to tender for, or purchase, any notes or any other securities of Thomson Reuters. No offer, solicitation, purchase or sale will be made in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful. The Tender Offer is being made solely pursuant to terms and conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase. Mizuho Securities USA LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC are serving as the Lead Dealer Managers in connection with the Tender Offer. BMO Capital Markets Corp. and RBC Capital Markets, LLC are serving as the Co-Dealer Managers in connection with the Tender Offer. Questions regarding the Tender Offer may be directed to Mizuho Securities USA LLC at 1-866-271-7403 (toll free in North America) or 1-212-205-7736 (collect) or to Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC at 1-800-624-1808 (toll free in North America) or 1-212-761-1057 (collect). Requests for the Offer to Purchase or the documents incorporated by reference therein may be directed to D.F. King & Co., Inc., which is acting as Information and Tender Agent for the Tender Offer, at the following telephone numbers: banks and brokers, 1-212-269-5550; all others toll free in North America at 1-800-330-5897 or at the following email address: [email protected] None of Thomson Reuters, the Dealer Managers, the Information and Tender Agent or the trustees for the Notes has authorized any person to make any representations in connection with the Tender Offer other than as set forth in the Offer to Purchase. Thomson Reuters Thomson Reuters (TSX/NYSE: TRI) is the world's leading provider of news and information-based tools to professionals. Our worldwide network of journalists and specialist editors keep customers up to speed on global developments, with a particular focus on legal, regulatory and tax changes. Thomson Reuters shares are listed on the Toronto and New York Stock Exchanges. For more information on Thomson Reuters, visit tr.com and for the latest world news, reuters.com. SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking, including the timing, size and other terms of the Tender Offer. These forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and reflect our company's current expectations. As a result, forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations, including other factors discussed in materials that Thomson Reuters from time to time files with, or furnishes to, the Canadian securities regulatory authorities and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. There is no assurance that the Tender Offer will be completed or that other events described in any forward-looking statement will materialize. Except as may be required by applicable law, Thomson Reuters disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. CONTACTS MEDIA David Crundwell Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs +1 416 649 9904 [email protected] INVESTORS Frank J. Golden Senior Vice President, Investor Relations +1 646 223 5288 [email protected] SOURCE Thomson Reuters Related Links http://www.thomson.com HOUSTON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Sterling Group, a middle market private equity firm based in Houston, Texas, today announced that its portfolio company, Time Manufacturing/Versalift, has completed the acquisition of Aspen Aerials. Headquartered in Waco, Texas, Time is a global designer, manufacturer, and distributor of vehicle-mounted aerial lifts primarily for the telecom and electric utility end markets. Time has pioneered several brands within the aerial lift market, including the market leading Versalift brand. Sterling acquired the business in 2017 from family owners to drive both organic and acquisition related growth. Headquartered in Duluth, Minnesota, Aspen Aerials is the leading manufacturer of specialty equipment used to inspect the safety and integrity of bridges. "We are delighted to welcome Aspen Aerials, a market leading manufacturer in the bridge inspection space, to the Versalift family," said Time Manufacturing CEO Curt Howell. "With this acquisition, we extend our reach into an important and growing industry, and continue to expand our offering of high-quality, safe and reliable equipment." Founded in 1982, Sterling has a long history of partnering with family owned businesses who are seeking the next phase of growth for their industrial businesses. About The Sterling Group Founded in 1982, The Sterling Group is a private equity investment firm that targets controlling interests in basic manufacturing, distribution and industrial services companies. Typical enterprise values of these companies range from $100 million to $750 million. Sterling has sponsored the buyout of over 52 platform companies and numerous add-on acquisitions for a total transaction value of over $10.0 billion. Currently, Sterling has over $1.9 billion of assets under management. For further information, please visit www.sterling-group.com. Past performance is no guarantee of future results and all investments are subject to loss. SOURCE The Sterling Group NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Tony Abrahams, Former CFO of Combs Enterprises, the parent company for Sean "Diddy" Combs' companies, is evolving the connection between fans and artists with the launch of TWEEDL , a platform, app and music social network that allows the people to Hear, Dope and Share (listen, up-vote and share with their followers) to select the next hot artists, while also allowing emerging artists to: Be discovered Increase their fan base Multiply their reach Increase exposure Get a deal (i.e., recording, sponsorship, endorsement, label) Think American Idol meets Tinder. With TWEEDL, artists introduce their music directly to a large and growing community of listeners. Using TWEEDL's proprietary editing tool, artists will create 30-second samples of their songs and submit them to TWEEDL's discovery feed, a random feed of newly discoverable songs, organized by genre. Artists can then easily share their new music across their multiple social media footprints in order to expand their music's reach to new listeners. Music Lovers Hear the newest, hottest tracks and discover their next favorite songs; Dope (up-vote) when it feels right and build their new music library; and Share new music with friends to help the best music get heard. #HearDopeShare. TWEEDL is the most innovative, new platform to impact the music industry in years. Founded by a seasoned business executive and self-proclaimed tech entrepreneur, it is a trusted platform that caters to the needs of music artists, while creating a fun and engaging experience for music lovers. Early users rave about the addictive experience and look forward to watching how the app and platform evolves in the coming months and years. Tony states, "I want to connect and engage aspiring music artists with music lovers everywhere, and empower them both. TWEEDL is a platform where everyone can be heard, aspiring artists, music lovers, everyone. So as an established executive, I left my lofty job at Combs Enterprises and became a tech entrepreneur, raised $2.3 million in seed capital and launched TWEEDL." TWEEDL will be selecting #WhosNext, the top five most loved artists on the platform based on user's Dope votes, to perform at it's live-streamed launch party in New York City. The performer with the most Dope votes will receive $100,000 in cash and benefits (including $50,000 in cash, a customized PR campaign experience, social media and digital presence consultancy and more) and will be named as TWEEDL's first brand ambassador. The inspiration for TWEEDL came to Tony because he wanted to help struggling artists achieve their music dreams. While at Combs Enterprises, many young artists asked him for career advice in music. As he reflected on their questions, he realized that emerging artists struggle to get their music heard in today's digital environment. Frustrated that the industry didn't have a solution, Tony built TWEEDL. Artists can visit www.TWEEDLmusic.com or download the TWEEDL app for free, available on Apple's App Store and Google's Play Store, to sign-up, upload their tracks and start getting discovered. All registered artists will be invited to participate in TWEEDL's #WhosNext Ambassador Campaign for the $100K in cash and benefits. Social Media: Instagram: @TWEEDLmusic @TWEEDLpop Twitter: @TWEEDLMusic Facebook: @TWEEDLmusic #HearDopeShare #WhosNext About Tony Abrahams Anthony "Tony" Abrahams is the CEO and Founder of TWEEDL, a music platform where the people select the next hot artist. Abrahams graduated from The Harvard Business School and worked his way up to become the CFO and Partner of New Venture Partners LLC, a global venture capital firm with approximately $750 million in assets under management, and CFO of Combs Enterprises. Tony Abrahams spent his career mentoring young people in their business careers and now he wants to help up-and-coming music artists with their careers. About TWEEDL TWEEDL is a start-up company with a massive, transformational purpose: to connect and engage aspiring music artists with music lovers everywhere, while empowering both. We're creating a community that provides an adventure for aspiring music artists and music lovers. PRESS CONTACTS: SOURCE TWEEDL Related Links https://tweedlmusic.com SYDNEY, Oct. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Nintex today published the agenda for its upcoming Nintex World Tour event in Sydney. The one-day conference will showcase how Australian private sector financial services organisations and a leading construction company are digitally transforming operations with process management and automation solutions from Nintex and Promapp. Visit http://www.nintex.com/NWT-Sydney to register for the Nintex World Tour event on Tuesday, October 16 at the Hilton Sydney hotel from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. AEST. The Nintex World Tour event in Sydney is a one-day conference that will showcase how Australian private sector financial services organisations and a leading construction company are digitally transforming operations with process management and automation solutions from Nintex and Promapp. To register, visit http://www.nintex.com/NWT-Sydney. Nintex Senior Director Sarah Berkowski will provide industry analyst and customer insights on the combined power of our market-leading process management and process automation capabilities thanks to our recent acquisition of Promapp. Berkowski will be followed by process management and IT leaders sharing how Nintex and Promapp help organisations manage, automate and optimise their most sophisticated business processes, including: Built, one of Australia's largest private construction groups needed to automate and control the issuance of security bonds required for its construction projects. Chris Vella , Group Treasurer at Built, and Drew Keenan CEO of Total Calibration, will share how Total Calibration used Nintex to deliver an automated and integrated application process for the request, approval and generation of securities for Built. largest private construction groups needed to automate and control the issuance of security bonds required for its construction projects. , Group Treasurer at Built, and Drew Keenan CEO of Total Calibration, will share how Total Calibration used Nintex to deliver an automated and integrated application process for the request, approval and generation of securities for Built. Auswide Bank with more than 50 years of history providing personal and business banking products and services to customers originating in regional Queensland and now with a lending presence Australia -wide supported through branches, business bankers, accredited mortgage brokers and online, is on what it calls a "Road to Right." Michelle Ashwell , Head of Customer Operations, and Tori McLennan , Head of Support Services Re-engineering from Auswide Bank will share how they are using Nintex and Promapp to improve the advocacy and ownership of processes within the organisation, automate various business processes, and more. "We're using Nintex and Promapp to support a positive process improvement culture at Auswide Bank. Promapp has been integral to increasing the accessibility, control and audit trail of process changes, with Nintex supporting the workflow automation of various business processes," shares Michelle Ashwell, Head of Customer Operations at Auswide Bank. "We're looking forward to sharing what we call our 'Road to Right' journey." Today the Nintex Platform includes powerful, easy-to-use capabilities for process mapping and management, modern forms, advanced workflow, document generation, process intelligence and more. End users save an average of 60 minutes for every complex process automated with Nintex's platform according to a Forrester Total Economic Impact Study. Media Contact Kristin Treat [email protected] cell: (215) 317-9091 About Nintex Nintex is the global standard for process management and automation. Today more than 8,000 public and private sector clients across 90 countries turn to the Nintex Platform to accelerate progress on their digital transformation journeys by quickly and easily managing, automating and optimising business processes. Learn more by visiting www.nintex.com and experience how Nintex and its global partner network are shaping the future of Intelligent Process Automation (IPA). Product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners. SOURCE Nintex Related Links http://www.nintex.com Union Ph.D. alumna Dr. Sharon E. Trekell will hood her son Gustav A. Otto and experience the joy of watching him follow her path with a Ph.D. "This is the thrill of a lifetime. I have always been incredibly proud of Gus as a son and a scholar. I don't think I will be able to keep from crying." Married couple Antwan and Daniel McKenzie-Plez encouraged each other when the educational journey became stressful. "We found a strength and balance together that galvanized us forward," said Daniel. Dr. Cynthia Cherrey is the keynote. She is the president and CEO of the International Leadership Association (ILA), a global organization for people who practice, study and teach leadership. Her interests and research explore new ways to live, work, and lead in a knowledge-driven, interdependent world. Recently she participated in a podcast series for Voice America's business channel on global leadership with Maureen Metcalf, host of Innovative Leaders Driving Thriving Organizations. A sought-after advisor, Cynthia serves on the editorial boards of Asian Women and the President's Advisory Group at Carnegie Mellon University. She is a Fellow at the World Business Academy, a Royal Society of the Arts Fellow, a former senior fellow at the James MacGregor Burns Academy of Leadership, and recipient of a Fulbright Scholarship. Degrees will be bestowed in the following areas: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts, Master of Science, Doctor of Education, Doctor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Studies, and Doctor of Psychology with a major in Clinical Psychology. Union is sought after by adults because of its adult delivery model: Specialized distance-learning programs that combine online and classroom coursework with high-touch faculty attention, designed for students regardless of where they live and work. Union also has a long history of serving diverse populations: Minorities (44 percent), women (55 percent), and an older, adult population (average age of 37) and interweaves social justice in its curriculum. Union Institute & University educates highly motivated adults who seek academic programs to engage, enlighten, and empower them to pursue professional goals and a lifetime of learning, service, and social responsibility. Explore Union at www. myunion.edu ! About Union Institute & University Union Institute & University is a non-profit, regionally accredited university specializing in providing quality higher education degrees for adults nationwide. Founded in 1964, Union's academic programs and services are the result of more than five decades of identifying and refining ways to structure and deliver education to meet the needs of adults. Distinguished as the pioneer in adult education, Union perfected the concepts now common in higher education such as the hybrid model, a blend of online and traditional classroom instruction, interdisciplinary studies, and student centered education with socially relevant and applicable learning outcomes in its undergraduate, master's and doctoral degree programs. The university is guided by its core mission to educate highly motivated adults who seek academic programs to engage, enlighten, and empower them to pursue professional goals and a lifetime of learning, service, and social responsibility. Union is a national university with academic centers located in: Ohio, Florida, and California. For more information about Union Institute & University, visit www.myunion.edu or call 1- 800-861-6400. SOURCE Union Institute & University Related Links https://myunion.edu PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Pall Corporation, a global leader in filtration, separation and purification, has progressed a strategic partnership with the University College London (UCL) Biochemical Engineering department with the creation of the UCL-Pall Biotech Centre of Excellence (CoE) for research and training. The UCL-Pall Biotech CoE will be operational from September 2018 through 2024 with a management committee supported by UCL's Strategic Alliance Director, Naveraj Gill. The investment in the UCL Biochemical Engineering's industrial research collaboration program with Pall Biotech is valued at 2.7M ($3.5M) and is staffed by nine Engineering Doctorates (EngDs) and a fully funded Post-Doctoral Research Associate. The organizations will engage in multi-level interactions to enable knowledge transfer and address critical industry challenges. "This alliance is another example of Pall Biotech's commitment to continuously improve bioprocesses through strategic partnerships," said Mario Philips, Vice President and General Manager, Pall Biotech. "There is value that comes from working closely with partners it allows our team to take a holistic approach to research that addresses core interests and industry challenges." "For many years we have collaborated with the Pall Biotech team to overcome industry challenges at the supply level. The new CoE will work to enhance drug production and empower the future workforce," Naveraj Gill said. "UCL colleagues Daniel Bracewell, Professor of Bioprocess Analysis and Mike Hoare, Professor of Biochemical Engineering will bring this vision to life internally. Rick Morris, Senior Vice President, Pall Biotech R&D, Richard Gutman, Distinguished Fellow and John Welsh, Senior Manager Pall Biotech Process R&D will align with us externally." Ranked as a top-ten university worldwide, UCL is known for encouraging students, staff, and partners to find new ways to convert discovery into commercially viable solutions that have an impact. The Biochemical Engineering department takes a unique multidisciplinary approach focused on translational research with strategic partners, such as major pharmaceutical manufacturers or suppliers like Pall Biotech, to gain real-life insight into the most pressing industry challenges. The new CoE is just one example of how UCL remains driven to deliver on business objectives and priorities globally. About Pall Corporation Pall Corporation is a filtration, separation and purification leader, providing solutions to meet the critical fluid management needs of customers across the broad spectrum of life sciences and industry. Pall works with customers to advance health, safety and environmentally responsible technologies. The company's engineered products enable process and product innovation and minimize emissions and waste. Pall Corporation serves customers worldwide. For more information visit www.pall.com. Or follow us on social media: YouTube - LinkedIn - Twitter - Facebook About UCL Biochemical Engineering Ranked as one of the top ten world universities and recognized as the leading London-based multi- faculty institute, our research addresses challenges in the three most important sectors of the advanced bioprocessing industries. The Industrial Biotechnology group focuses on biocatalysis and the sustainable synthesis of chemicals and pharmaceuticals from renewable resources. The Macromolecular Medicines group addresses the manufacture of advanced biopharmaceutical therapies including antibodies, genes and recombinant vaccines. Finally, the Cell Therapy Bioprocessing group is concerned with the translation of stem cell science into novel cell and tissue-based therapies. Our outstanding reputation derives from a shared passion to understand how life science discoveries can be converted into commercially viable products on a truly global scale. Proud winners of Queens Anniversary Trust Award (2013) for pioneering studies for the bioprocessing industry. For more information visit: www.ucl.ac.uk/biochemeng or contact [email protected]. Pall Corporate Media Contact Pall Corporation Mariann Kourafas Director of Communications +1-508-871-5469 Pall Biotech Media Contact White Matter Communications Beth Willers [email protected] +1-415-905-0324 SOURCE Pall Corporation Related Links http://www.pall.com Micro- and nano-devices promise amazing capabilities with incredible power efficiency WATERLOO, ON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - VueReal Inc., a developer of key technologies for micro- and nano-devices, is pleased to announce $8.5 million in funding from Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) to support a total project investment of over $26.0 million. SDTC helps Canadian entrepreneurs accelerate the development and deployment of globally competitive clean technology solutions. VueReal will use the funding to further develop innovative micro-LED technologies by expanding its Waterloo team and launching an Advanced Nano-Technology Center a fabrication facility that might well be unique in the Western hemisphere. Micro-LED displays use screens built from tiny versions of the same type of chip used in LED lights. They have many significant advantages over today's OLED and LCD screens, including being much brighter (a requirement for displays that must compete with ambient daylight), supporting higher frame-rates, delivering denser pixels per inch (PPI), providing better contrast, being much more flexible, and doing it all at double or triple the power efficiency and with significantly longer lifetimes. Together with the SDTC support, VueReal will leverage key industry partnerships with Angstrom, a Canadian manufacturer of industry-leading thin film deposition systems for PVD and CVD processes, and a large Asian electronics company. "We are proud to have the support of this federal program, and collaborations with industry partners. The next steps include building an integrated pilot production system, engineering the equipment needed to enable VueReal's proprietary Solid Printing process at commercial volumes, and enhancing the performance of micro-LEDs even further," said Reza Chaji, Ph.D., CEO and Founder of VueReal. "I'm extremely proud of our world-class multi-disciplinary team. We've achieved some important milestones and the industry has taken notice but our journey is really just beginning." "We are excited to support VueReal in developing innovative solutions by providing engineering support for the deposition equipment required to create the micro-LED devices," explained David Pitts, President, Angstrom Engineering Inc. "SDTC is proud to support the steps that VueReal is taking to reduce the carbon footprint of micro-and nano-technology production processes, demonstrating that small actions can create big change." Leah Lawrence, President and CEO, Sustainable Development Technology Canada. About Sustainable Development Technology Canada Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) is a foundation created by the Government of Canada to advance clean technology innovation in Canada by funding and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises developing and demonstrating clean technology solutions. About VueReal Inc. VueReal is engineering the next electronics revolution by developing and commercializing technology platforms that enable efficient, practical, and scalable production and integration of micro- and nano-devices. VueReal's solutions promise to turn the potential of micro-LED technology into reality by enabling the true-life displays needed by the next generation of smartphones, TVs, laptops, virtual/augmented reality systems, heads-up-displays, instrument panels, infotainment systems, and wearables. For inquiries regarding investment, collaboration, partnership, and products, please contact VueReal at [email protected]. SOURCE VueReal HOUSTON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- World Services Group is pleased to announce it has elected its board of directors for 2018-2019 at its 17th annual meeting in Nassau, Bahamas. The multidisciplinary professional services group named Francesco Gianni of Gianni, Origoni, Grippo, Cappelli & Partners as the board's chair; Michael Bernard of Dykema as chair-elect; Ramon Moyano of Beccar Varela as secretary and Judith Whitehead of Graham Thompson as treasurer. The officers will serve one-year terms. "I look forward to maximizing the visibility of WSG and its member firms and to demonstrate the strength of WSG as the premier network of leading independent firms across the globe," said Gianni, who succeeds Mark Harty of LCS & Partners as chair. "I'm honored to serve as WSG's chair." WSG also elected the following directors: Yvon Dreano of Jeantet; Andre Vautour of Lavery Lawyers; Pedro Aguiar de Freitas of Veirano Advogados and Adam Handley of MinterEllison. They will serve four-year terms. Newly elected directors: Yvon Dreano, Jeantet France Yvon Dreano is a partner and a member of the Board of Partners at Jeantet, legal firm member for France. His practice focuses on litigation, mergers and acquisitions, private equity and restructuring and insolvency. Dreano has been very active within WSG personally attending many events and participating as a part of the European Regional Council from 2014-2016. Jeantet joined WSG in 2011 and has been very active in many aspects of WSG, including hosting more than seven meetings, attending events and actively referring opportunities to members across the globe. Andre Vautour, Lavery Lawyers Quebec, Canada Andre Vautour is a partner at Lavery Lawyers and focuses his practice in corporate and commercial law, strategic alliances, joint ventures, investment funds and mergers and acquisitions. Vautour served on WSG's North American Regional Counsel from 2014-2016. Lavery Lawyers joined WSG in 2004 and has acted as host to an annual meeting and Canadian managing partners meetings. Pedro Aguiar de Freitas, Veirano Advogados Brazil Pedro Aguiar de Freitas is a partner at Veirano Advogados, legal firm member for Brazil. Freitas has extensive experience advising clients on corporate law, mergers and acquisitions and infrastructure issues with exceptional industry knowledge in mining, construction, project finance, energy and natural resources. Freitas participated as a part of the Latin American Regional Council from 2015-2017, acting as chair in 2017. Veirano Advogados joined WSG in 2003 and has hosted multiple WSG events. Adam Handley, MinterEllison Australia Adam Handley is the managing partner of Western Australian business at MinterEllison, legal firm member for Australia. Handley is a senior partner specializing in North Asian merger and acquisitions and project development in the energy, resources and agricultural sectors. Handley is active in various WSG practice groups and events, and he has participated in the Asia Regional Council since 2017. MinterEllison joined WSG in 2004 and hosted its International Bar Association event in 2017 among several other meetings. About World Services Group World Services Group is the globally recognized resource for professionals and their clients to receive the highest quality, value and service from legal, investment banking and accounting services. WSG provides members the ability to create new business opportunities and relationships to better serve their clients. For additional information, visit https://www.worldservicesgroup.com/aboutus.asp. CONTACT: Steve Stasny, World Services Group, [email protected] SOURCE World Services Group Related Links http://worldservicesgroup.com MISSISSAUGA, ON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Maple Leaf Foods (TSX: MFI) hosted its 10th annual Food Safety Symposium in Mississauga, Ontario yesterday, supporting its ongoing commitment to advancing learning and dialogue across industry, government, academia and civil society. A decade ago, 23 Canadians lost their lives and many people became ill as a result of products contaminated with listeria monocytogenes which were produced at Maple Leaf's Bartor Road facility in Toronto. This tragedy led Maple Leaf Foods to make a long-term commitment to become a global leader in food safety through significant focus and investment in people, technologies and leading food safety practices. This includes enhancing learning and food safety practices across the industry. For the past 10 years, the Company has hosted an annual Food Safety Symposium, where industry professionals are invited to a day of open dialogue, debate and learnings about important and timely food safety topics. The theme of this year's symposium was Culture and Trust Essential Elements for Food Safety. As the Center for Food Integrity (CFI) reported earlier this year, consumer research reveals a trust gap between consumers and the food industry, which highlights the need for increased consumer engagement by the food sector. "Our industry faces a trust gap and we must shift and change in order to gain the trust of consumers in the health and safety of the food we produce," said Randy Huffman, chief food safety & sustainability officer, Maple Leaf Foods. "Building trust through increasing transparency in how our food is made is essential to building faith in the efficacy of the food system." At this year's symposium, more than 70 organizations from a cross section of North American industry, government, academia and associations were represented by over 150 participants. The event challenged people to think about the food safety culture of their organizations and how they can build a culture of trust with their consumers. For the first time in the symposium's history, attendees heard emotional and impactful accounts from speakers from the advocacy organization, Stop Foodborne Illness. Two speakers gave firsthand accounts of their experience living through dangerous and life-threating foodborne illnesses, driving home the impact on peoples' lives. 2018 symposium speakers included: Tressa Bennett , attorney, foodborne illness survivor and food safety advocate , attorney, foodborne illness survivor and food safety advocate Dr. Scott W. Brooks , consultant and owner of River Run Consulting, LLC. , consultant and owner of River Run Consulting, LLC. Dane Bernard , managing director, Bold Bear Food Safety , managing director, Bold Bear Food Safety Randy Huffman , chief food safety & sustainability officer, Maple Leaf Foods , chief food safety & sustainability officer, Maple Leaf Foods Lone Jespersen , principal at Cultivate, Ph.D., Hauterive NE, Canton of Neuchatel, Switzerland principal at Cultivate, Ph.D., Hauterive NE, Canton of Neuchatel, Gillian Kelleher , VP of food safety & QA at Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. , VP of food safety & QA at Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. Ken Koehler , foodborne illness survivor , foodborne illness survivor Peter J. Taormina , president, Etna Consulting Group , president, Etna Consulting Group Michael R. Taylor , co-chair of Board, Safe Tables our Priority, and retired deputy commissioner of Foods, US FDA , co-chair of Board, Safe Tables our Priority, and retired deputy commissioner of Foods, US FDA Matt Williams , vice president, manufacturing, Maple Leaf Foods , vice president, manufacturing, Maple Leaf Foods Rick Young , senior vice president, operations, supply chain and purchasing, Maple Leaf Foods "The annual Maple Leaf Foods Food Safety Symposium is an integral part of our food safety commitment," said Rick Young, senior vice president, operations, supply chain and purchasing, Maple Leaf Foods. "Transparency and openness is key to creating a stronger and safer food safety culture in North America, which consumers can trust and rely on. We will never stop learning and sharing." Next year's Maple Leaf Foods Food Safety Symposium will be held on October 8, 2019 in Mississauga, Ontario. For future information on the 2019 symposium, visit: http://www.mapleleaffoods.com/food-safety/. About Maple Leaf Foods Maple Leaf Foods Inc. is a leading consumer protein company, making high quality, innovative products under national brands including Maple Leaf, Maple Leaf Prime, Maple Leaf Natural Selections, Schneiders, Schneiders Country Naturals, Mina, SWIFT, Lightlife and Field Roast Grain Meat Co.. Maple Leaf employs approximately 11,500 people and does business in Canada, the U.S. and Asia. The Company is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario and its shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (MFI). SOURCE Maple Leaf Foods Inc. Related Links http://www.mapleleaffoods.com "Healthcare providers already know that JUVEDERM is the #1 selling collection of dermal fillers, 1 but consumers tend to think about 'fillers' as a general category. This bold, high-impact, new campaign will empower women to own their look and ask for JUVEDERM by name," says Carrie Strom, Senior Vice President, US Medical Aesthetics for Allergan. "The campaign is on television and in print, but it really comes alive online and on social media. We are already seeing healthcare providers posting about the campaign and encouraging their patients to JUVEDERM IT!" The JUVEDERM Collection of Fillers offers a complete range of dermal fillers specifically designed for different patient needs, rather than taking a 'one size fits all' approach.2-6 The JUVEDERM IT campaign will re-energize the brand with a modernized logo and bright, poppy color scheme. The refreshed talent, imagery and edgy soundtrack will also grab the attention of millennials, Generation X and Baby Boomers and inspire them to curate their own looks with JUVEDERM. "At Allergan, our goal is to educate and empower consumers to do what is right for them when it comes to aesthetic treatments," says Strom. "It's all about personal choices. Whether they want a subtle or dramatic look, whether they seek treatment now or five years from now, we're here to offer a range of solutions to help every patient achieve their aesthetic goals." DDB New York developed the creative vision of the campaign, which was shot by Giovanni Messner of Brother Production Company. Print and broadcast media will run for the remainder of 2018 and into 2019 and will replace all existing creative. Visit www.juvederm.com to learn more about the JUVEDERM Collection of Fillers or to find a doctor. JUVEDERM Injectable Gel Fillers Important Information APPROVED USES JUVEDERM VOLUMA XC injectable gel is for deep injection in the cheek area to correct age-related volume loss in adults over 21. JUVEDERM XC and JUVEDERM VOLLURE XC injectable gels are for injection into the facial tissue for the correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds. JUVEDERM VOLLURE XC injectable gel is for adults over 21. JUVEDERM Ultra XC is for injection into the lips and perioral area for lip augmentation in adults over 21. JUVEDERM VOLBELLA XC injectable gel is for injection into the lips for lip augmentation and for correction of perioral lines in adults over 21. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Are there any reasons why I should not receive any JUVEDERM injectable gel formulation? Do not use these products if you have a history of multiple severe allergies or severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), or if you are allergic to lidocaine or the Gram-positive bacterial proteins used in these products. What precautions should my doctor advise me about? Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The safety of these products for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding has not been studied The safety of JUVEDERM VOLUMA XC in patients under 35 years or over 65 years, the safety of JUVEDERM XC and JUVEDERM Ultra XC injectable gels in patients under 18 years, and the safety of JUVEDERM VOLLURE XC and JUVEDERM VOLBELLA XC in patients under 22 years has not been studied XC in patients under 35 years or over 65 years, the safety of JUVEDERM XC and JUVEDERM Ultra XC injectable gels in patients under 18 years, and the safety of JUVEDERM VOLLURE XC and JUVEDERM VOLBELLA XC in patients under 22 years has not been studied The safety and effectiveness of JUVEDERM VOLUMA XC in areas other than the cheek area, JUVEDERM XC and JUVEDERM VOLLURE XC for areas other than facial wrinkles and folds, and JUVEDERM Ultra XC and JUVEDERM VOLBELLA XC in areas other than the lips and perioral area have not been established in clinical studies XC in areas other than the cheek area, JUVEDERM XC and JUVEDERM VOLLURE XC for areas other than facial wrinkles and folds, and JUVEDERM Ultra XC and JUVEDERM VOLBELLA XC in areas other than the lips and perioral area have not been established in clinical studies Tell your doctor if you have a history of excessive scarring (eg, hypertrophic scarring and keloid formations) or pigmentation disorders, as use of these products may result in additional scars or changes in pigmentation Tell your doctor if you are planning other laser treatments or a chemical peel, as there is a possible risk of inflammation at the treatment site if these procedures are performed after treatment Patients who experience skin injury near the site of injection with these products may be at a higher risk for side effects Tell your doctor if you are on immunosuppressive therapy used to decrease the body's immune response, as use of these products may result in an increased risk of infection Tell your doctor if you are using medications that can prolong bleeding, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or other blood thinners, as this may result in increased bruising or bleeding at the injection site Minimize strenuous exercise, exposure to extensive sun or heat, and alcoholic beverages within the first 24 hours following treatment What are possible side effects? The most commonly reported side effects with JUVEDERM injectable gels included injection-site redness, swelling, pain, tenderness, firmness, lumps/bumps, bruising, discoloration, and itching. For JUVEDERM VOLBELLA XC, dryness was also reported. For JUVEDERM VOLUMA XC, most side effects were moderate and lasted 2 to 4 weeks. For JUVEDERM XC, JUVEDERM VOLLURE XC, and JUVEDERM Ultra XC injectable gels, most side effects were mild or moderate and lasted 14 days or less. For JUVEDERM VOLBELLA XC, most side effects were mild or moderate and lasted 30 days or less. One of the risks with using these products is unintentional injection into a blood vessel, and, while rare, the complications can be serious and may be permanent. These complications, which have been reported for facial injections, can include vision abnormalities, blindness, stroke, temporary scabs, or permanent scarring. As with all skin injection procedures, there is a risk of infection. To report a side effect with any JUVEDERM product, please call Allergan at 1-800-433-8871. Please visit Juvederm.com or talk to your doctor for more information. Available by prescription only. About Allergan plc Allergan plc (NYSE: AGN), headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is a bold, global pharmaceutical leader. Allergan is focused on developing, manufacturing and commercializing branded pharmaceutical, device, biologic, surgical and regenerative medicine products for patients around the world. Allergan markets a portfolio of leading brands and best-in-class products for the central nervous system, eye care, medical aesthetics and dermatology, gastroenterology, women's health, urology and anti-infective therapeutic categories. Allergan is an industry leader in Open Science, a model of research and development, which defines our approach to identifying and developing game-changing ideas and innovation for better patient care. With this approach, Allergan has built one of the broadest development pipelines in the pharmaceutical industry. Allergan's success is powered by our global colleagues' commitment to being Bold for Life. Together, we build bridges, power ideas, act fast and drive results for our customers and patients around the world by always doing what is right. With commercial operations in approximately 100 countries, Allergan is committed to working with physicians, healthcare providers and patients to deliver innovative and meaningful treatments that help people around the world live longer, healthier lives every day. For more information, visit Allergan's website at www.Allergan.com. Forward-Looking Statement Statements contained in this press release that refer to future events or other non-historical facts are forward-looking statements that reflect Allergan's current perspective on existing trends and information as of the date of this release. Actual results may differ materially from Allergan's current expectations depending upon a number of factors affecting Allergan's business. These factors include, among others, the difficulty of predicting the timing or outcome of FDA approvals or actions, if any; the impact of competitive products and pricing; market acceptance of and continued demand for Allergan's products; the impact of uncertainty around timing of generic entry related to key products, including RESTASIS, on our financial results; risks associated with divestitures, acquisitions, mergers and joint ventures; uncertainty associated with financial projections, projected cost reductions, projected debt reduction, projected synergies, restructurings, increased costs, and adverse tax consequences; difficulties or delays in manufacturing; and other risks and uncertainties detailed in Allergan's periodic public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to Allergan's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 and Allergan's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2018. Except as expressly required by law, Allergan disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements. REFERENCES: 1. Data on File Allergan, Inc.; Proforma Sales JUVEDERM VOLUMA XC, 2015. 2. JUVEDERM ULTRA XC Patient Labeling, 2016. 3. JUVEDERM ULTRA PLUS XC Patient Labeling, 2016. 4. JUVEDERM VOLUMA XC Patient Labeling, 2016. 5. JUVEDERM VOLBELLA XC Patient Labeling, 2016. 6. JUVEDERM VOLLURE XC Patient Labeling, 2017. 2018 Allergan. All rights reserved. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. CONTACTS: Allergan: Investors: Daphne Karydas (862) 261-8006 Karina Calzadilla (862) 261-7328 Media: Amy Rose (862) 289-3072 SOURCE Allergan plc Related Links http://www.allergan.com NASHVILLE, Tenn., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Ampersand Health, a value-based provider of health solutions, has introduced a scalable platform to address health disparities in vulnerable Medicaid populations. The Ampersand Health Solutions Platform partners with Medicaid managed care organizations and local health systems for a scalable solution to engage members, align providers, close gaps in care, address social determinants of health, and increase primary care access and capacity. For more information about Ampersand Health, visit www.ampersand-health.com. "Serving America's nearly 75 million Medicaid beneficiaries' physical and behavioral health needs is increasingly challenging for states, managed care organizations and local health systems," said Ampersand Health CEO Tim Petrikin. "Our work in inner-cities over the years has taught us that we can't do it without aligning other providers. And addressing poverty and poor health requires dramatically different approaches than for commercial and Medicare populations. Further, we have to address health where members live, learn, work and worship and can't merely rely on reactive, clinic-based sick care to improve the health outcomes and lower the more than $500 billion spent in managed Medicaid annually." The Ampersand Health Solutions Platform leverages technology, in-community care teams and clinic-based care for a complete solution for Medicaid populations. Scale: Technology and actionable data insights eliminate fragmentation of Medicaid providers and engage beneficiaries, allowing for scalable impact on the health of Medicaid populations. Technology and actionable data insights eliminate fragmentation of Medicaid providers and engage beneficiaries, allowing for scalable impact on the health of Medicaid populations. Social Determinants: CityLife Health's in-community care teams address social determinants of health and integrate behavioral health where members are rather than where providers are. CityLife Health's in-community care teams address social determinants of health and integrate behavioral health where members are rather than where providers are. Access: Proactive approaches to engagement and coordination don't replace the need for convenient access to care and greater capacity to address complex conditions through CityLife Clinics. "By partnering with managed care organizations and local health systems in Medicaid value-based contracts, Ampersand Health is meeting the current ecosystem where it is while seeking to innovate its care effectiveness and develop alternative payment models," Petrikin said. "Our team's experience and expertise across the entire health care continuum combined with our results over the past few years give us confidence in our ability to quickly scale and efficiently execute." Ampersand Health is building on its early results in Philadelphia, where it decreased costs by 17% while increasing membership 155% from 2016-2018. Through innovative partnerships with Medicaid managed care organizations and local health systems, Ampersand Health is expanding to New Jersey in 2019 and is targeting markets for further expansion. About Ampersand Health Ampersand Health and its CityLife Health subsidiary is bringing population health from rhetoric to reality through its belief that improving health requires member engagement, provider alignment and proactive care delivery. With this vision in mind, the company developed the Ampersand Health Solutions Platform a scalable set of technology-enabled, common-sense interventions for poverty and geographic health disparities driven by its work in inner-city communities since 2014. SOURCE Ampersand Health Related Links http://ampersand-health.com The 5,000 square foot space features a combination of industrial, yet chic finishes and seats a total of 75 guests. On the outside, the approximately 2,000 square foot outdoor courtyard adjacent to the restaurant will provide old world Spanish setting complete with a fountain. Once indoors, a series of avant-garde style display cases will cover most of the pastry and take out section, while a glass walled preparation kitchen will allow guests to see the chefs at work. When not used for the production of delectable masterpieces, the preparation kitchen will hold pastry workshops for pastry enthusiasts of all levels. "We wanted to provide our tenants and customers with a food and beverage experience unlike any other in Miami," said Armando Codina, Executive Chairman of Codina Partners. "Bachour delivers on that and more making his restaurant and bakery the perfect addition to 2020 Salzedo, where we house our headquarters in downtown Coral Gables." On the menu, expect to find the house-baked bread along with elevated versions of classic breakfast, lunch, and brunch dishes. At breakfast, expect to find Bachour's full-line of viennoiserie, together with egg-based dishes, house-made granola, fruit bowls, and various terrines. At lunch time, expect to find a wide variety of hand-crafted sandwiches and salads, plus a few entrees. All day brunch on the weekends will offer a combination of both services with expanded options such as brioche French toast and the new Bachour turkey Cuban sandwich, in addition to a broader selection of Bachour's signature desserts. "We have curated a food experience that will offer delicacies for discerning palates as well as upscale editions of every day favorites," added Bachour. The restaurant will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. for breakfast and lunch from Monday to Friday, and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (all day) for brunch on the weekends. "The new concept in the Gables will allow us to offer Antonio's unique creations to a broader national and international customer base plus will allow him to instruct. It will be the perfect vessel for taking his name and the brand to the next level," said Bachour co-owner and restaurateur, Javier Ramirez. "We are also very excited about creating a modern and inspiring breakfast, lunch, and brunch menu that will contribute to the growth of Miami's culinary landscape." To learn more follow @bachourmiami on Instagram and visit www.antoniobachour.com to sign up for the mailing list. SOURCE Codina Partners Related Links http://www.antoniobachour.com Throughout the month of October, National Breast Cancer Month, Jamba Juice guests will be able to make a donation to the National Breast Cancer Foundation during in-store or online checkout at participating locations. Guests can add $1 or more to their purchase to support the 1 in 8 women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime. "Working with National Breast Cancer Foundation is very important to us at Jamba Juice. With a new patient diagnosed every 2.5 minutes and over 250,000 women diagnosed every year, this is a fight that is near and dear to our hearts," said Claudia Schaefer, CMO, Jamba Juice. "We are proud to play a small part in the outstanding work the Foundation does to provide mammograms and support services to women in need across the country." "Over the past eight years, we have had the privilege of partnering with Jamba Juice. To date, they have helped raise a remarkable $1.2 million dollars, which has provided thousands of mammograms and enabled us to further our mission of Helping Women Now through early detection, education and support services," said Janelle Hail, Founder and CEO, National Breast Cancer Foundation. "We cherish the support of Jamba Juice and look forward to continuing our successful partnership this National Breast Cancer Month." For more information about the National Breast Cancer Foundation, or to find a participating Jamba Juice location, visit http://www.jambajuice.com/donate-hope. About Jamba Juice Company Jamba, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Jamba Juice Company, is a global lifestyle brand that serves freshly blended fruit and vegetable smoothies, bowls, juices, cold-pressed shots, boosts, snacks, and meal replacements. Jamba Juice has more than 800 locations worldwide. Please visit www.jambajuice.com to learn more. Jamba is a subsidiary of Focus Brands Inc. About Focus Brands Inc. Atlanta-based Focus Brands Inc. is a leading developer of global multi-channel foodservice brands. Focus, through its affiliate brands, is the franchisor and operator of more than 6,000 restaurants, cafes, ice cream shoppes and bakeries in the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and over 50 foreign countries under the brand names Carvel, Cinnabon, Schlotzsky's, Moe's Southwest Grill, Auntie Anne's, McAlister's Deli and Jamba Juice, as well as Seattle's Best Coffee on certain military bases and in certain international markets. Please visit www.focusbrands.com to learn more. About National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. Recognized as one of the leading breast cancer organizations in the world, National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) is Helping Women Now by providing early detection, education and support services to those affected by breast cancer. A recipient of Charity Navigator's highest 4-star rating for 13 years, NBCF provides support through their National Mammography Program, Patient Navigation, Beyond The Shock, breast health education, and research programs. For more information, please visit www.nbcf.org. SOURCE Jamba Juice NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- This fall's invitation-only summit led by Culture Shift Labs (CSL) presents a rare opportunity for leading companies and investors to meet, vet, and fund the fast-growing ecosystem of Venture Funds run by Black and Latinx founders. Hosted at Infor, CSL's annual three-day Culture Shifting Weekend offers institutional investors, social impact investors, corporate VCs, and the broader investment community direct engagement with this burgeoning niche of general partners (GPs). More than 180 representatives from companies such as RBC Capital Markets, SAP, PayPal, Boeing and Morgan Stanley are scheduled to attend. Months after attending 2017's Annual Culture Shifting Weekend, three venture capitalists (VCs) received $16 million in funding. Beyond this committed capital, VCs who attended last year's event are currently being vetted for additional $50 million of investment. Due to the higher number of institutional investors and GPs expected at this year's Weekend, Culture Shift Labs estimates funding will increase by 2-3 times year-over-year. "Enabling introductions and transactions in one location with investors and Black and Latinx VCs who say they are looking for each other, is about financial inclusion and is critical to closing the wealth gap," said Andrea Hoffman, founder and CEO of Culture Shift Labs. "There are at least 120 Black and Latinx VC firms now seeking the right partners and paths forward for their funds. Historical lack of awareness of this community has limited companies' ability to access new revenue streams, co-investment opportunities, competitive advantages, acquisitions and initiatives that can propel their businesses forward. Our event fills a unique and unmet need in the marketplace." "RBC Capital Markets is glad to be aligned with work that is innovative, transformative and inclusive where profit and purpose meet," said Michael Carter, Co-Head of Global Technology Investment Banking at RBC Capital Markets. "Culture Shifting Weekend represents that." EVENT DETAILS Title Sponsor: RBC Capital Markets RBC Capital Markets Investors Attending: Corporate VCs, nonprofit foundations, fund of funds, family office CIOs, sovereign wealth funds, pension funds and angel investors, including: Corporate VCs, nonprofit foundations, fund of funds, family office CIOs, sovereign wealth funds, pension funds and angel investors, including: Alabama Power Colonial Consulting Toyota AI Ventures Ford Foundation M12 IBM Ventures Square 1 Bank Cambridge Associates University of Miami VCs Attending: Over 20 Black and Latinx VCs will be speaking including Daryn Dodson of Illumen Capital and Shauntel Garvey of Reach Capital. Invited Speaker: Scott Stringer , New York City Comptroller , New York City Comptroller Featured Speakers: Fireside Chats: Jeremy Liew , Partner at Lightspeed Ventures with Denmark West, Founding Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Connectivity Ventures , Partner at Lightspeed Ventures with Denmark West, Founding Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Connectivity Ventures Fred Wilson , Partner at Union Square Ventures with Joanne Wilson , Angel Investor, Blogger, Co-founder of Women's Entrepreneur Festival Gotham Gal Ventures , Partner at Union Square Ventures with , Angel Investor, Blogger, Co-founder of Women's Entrepreneur Festival Gotham Gal Ventures Rachel Lam , Co-Founder at Imagination Capital with Andrea Hoffman For more information please visit the event website. This event is open to select media representatives by request. ABOUT CULTURE SHIFT LABS (CSL) CSL advises Tech & Fortune 500 Companies, Non-Profits, CEOs, Cities, Investors and Philanthropists on creating and activating growth and innovation through diversity and inclusion. CSL applies their Knowledge + Network Formula to produce measurable outcomes for clients including leveraging their 6K Database of Black subject matter experts to increase diversity on corporate and non profit boards, in the c-suite and help companies be deliberate about diversity in corporate venture, corporate development, mergers & acquisitions and more. Culture Shift Labs is based in New Jersey with a satellite office in San Francisco, CA. http://www.cultureshiftlabs.com/ ABOUT CULTURE SHIFTING WEEKENDS (CSW) Culture Shifting: A Weekend of Technology, Innovation & Social Impact is an annual invite-only bicoastal event that takes place in Silicon Valley and Silicon Alley. These are the only events of their kind in the United States that unite over 300 accomplished Black & Latinx tech executives, entrepreneurs, investors, innovators and social impact leaders to celebrate, collaborate, and make deals. Each coast has a different format; Silicon Valley is the largest gathering of Black leaders in tech, innovation and social impact. Silicon Alley is the largest gathering of Black and Latinx Venture Capitalists. CSW is an annual signature event of Culture Shift Labs. https://www.cultureshiftingweekends.com/ ABOUT ANDREA HOFFMAN Ms. Hoffman is an advisor, dealmaker, strategist, speaker, author, and the founder and CEO of CSL. Leveraging more than 20 years of strategy, business development and advisory experience, she consults with senior leaders and C-suite executives across a wide range of industries on finding new growth opportunities. By helping clients see past long-held perceptions regarding the intersection of innovation, inclusion and diversity, she guides clients to insights that unlock growth. Her advisory services help clients to see how business, technology and demographic shifts are related, and how leveraging those forces to improve business and societal impact are both possible and profitable. Ms. Hoffman's second book, 50 Billion Dollar Boss: Stories from African American Women Entrepreneurs on Leadership and Success (Palgrave Macmillan) was published in 2015, and nominated for a 2016 NAACP Image Award. She has included in a wide range of media outlets, from Bloomberg and the Christian Science Monitor to Fast Company and Washington Post and has spoken or led panels at Milken Global Conference and National Association of Corporate Directors. CONTACT INFORMATION For Culture Shift Labs Karen Lewis Going Public PR [email protected] For RBC Capital Markets Chris Gillick ICR [email protected] SOURCE Culture Shift Labs Related Links http://www.cultureshiftlabs.com ABBOTSFORD, British Columbia, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Silver Hills, the parent company behind better-for-you-brands Silver Hills Bakery, One Degree Organic Foods and Little Northern Bakehouse, today announces Dave Hansen to the new role of Vice-President, Sales, effective October 8, 2018. Dave began his career nearly 30 years ago with Frito-Lay/Pepsico Foodservice as a Route Sales Representative, culminating in his appointment as West Region Director in 2004. In 2009, he became Regional Vice-President at Snyder's-Lance, honing his skills as a strategic planner and eventually rising to Vice President, Global Sales at Nature's Bakery in 2015. "We're thrilled to welcome Dave to the team at Silver Hills and believe that he will bring his customer focus and passion for winning to great effect," says Danny Houghton, Chief Customer Officer at Silver Hills. "Dave has also shown that he is the type of leader that's wholeheartedly committed to the continued success and development of his team members, which we're confident will help to ensure the sustainability of Silver Hills' success over the long-term." In his new role, Dave will focus on accelerated retail expansion in both the United States and Canada, bringing strategic selling insights to the suite of Silver Hills' better-for-you-brands. He will be pushing to expand Silver Hills' growth through DSD networks and to expand the company's food service presence across North America. Hansen will also oversee sales team growth and mentorship as Silver Hills expands its team to meet the needs of its growing customer base. "I'm looking forward to bringing my expertise in building customer relationships and passion for developing talent here with the Silver Hills team," says Hansen. "Silver Hills' mission is to inspire healthier living through healthier choices, and I'm excited to join the company on that journey and do my part to make healthier, delicious choices more broadly available to all." About Silver Hills Established in 1989, Silver Hills grew out of the Silver Hills Guest House, where one of the company's founders began baking bread from sprouted whole grains. Starting with Silver Hills Sprouted Bakery, the company began establishing other brands to align with healthy dietary choices, including One Degree Organic Foods for sprouted and organic breads and cereals with complete ingredient traceability as well as Little Northern Bakehouse for gluten-free breads. Silver Hills' goal is to produce wholesome vegan, non-GMO products to inspire healthier living through healthier choices. The company operates a large, world-class GFSI-certified sprouted bakery facility based in Abbotsford, BC, Canada. SOURCE Silver Hills LONDON, EDINBURGH, Scotland and MONTREAL, Quebec, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- PSP Investments to increase its stake in Forth Ports in landmark transaction Forth Ports Limited ("Forth Ports"), one of the UK's largest port groups, announces this morning that Arcus European Infrastructure Fund 1 LP ("Arcus") has agreed to sell its shares in the company to the Public Sector Pension Investment Board ("PSP Investments"). After financial completion, PSP Investments will partner with other long-term investors who are well aligned to support the future growth of Forth Ports. Forth Ports is a dynamic, UK-based multimodal ports owner and operator, with ports serving as logistical gateways across the UK, connecting the UK with Europe and the rest of the world. It owns and operates eight commercial ports on the Firth of Forth, the Firth of Tay and the River Thames, with strategic positions in Tilbury (London), Grangemouth, Dundee, Rosyth and Leith (Edinburgh). Tilbury is the site of a major new port terminal, Tilbury 2, while the Port of Dundee is strongly positioned to service the needs of the growing offshore wind sector and North Sea oil and gas decommissioning industry. "This is a landmark transaction for PSP to increase our stake in a strategically located, top-tier infrastructure asset in the UK," said Patrick Samson, Managing Director and Head of Infrastructure Investments, PSP Investments. "Since PSP's original investment seven years ago, Forth Ports' world-class management team has led the company through consistent high performance and growth. We are now entering the next phase of our journey together, which includes a specific plan to enhance our asset management responsibilities. This plan is being headed by our London-based team under the leadership of Patrick Charbonneau, Managing Director, Infrastructure Investments (Europe)." "This is an exciting time for Forth Ports as we continue to deliver our ambitious expansion and investment programme around the UK," said Charles Hammond, Group Chief Executive of Forth Ports. "Our colleagues at PSP are already long-term, committed shareholders and this new investment ensures continuity for the business as we evolve to meet the customer demands of the future. I want to personally thank Stuart Gray, Simon Gray and all the team at Arcus for their constant support, insight and strategic guidance over the past seven years. Forth Ports is in a strong position with a clear vision for the future." "The Arcus team have been a long-term shareholder in Forth Ports and we leave the business in an excellent position, with a strong platform for continued growth," said Stuart Gray, Arcus Partner. "We have enjoyed working in partnership with the management team, growing the business substantially during our period of ownership, and we will continue to monitor how the business evolves over the years with the new shareholding structure in place. We wish the management team every success for the future." About Forth Ports Forth Ports Limited is one of the UK's largest port groups and owns and operates eight commercial ports in the UK - Tilbury on the Thames, Dundee on the Firth of Tay and six on the Firth of Forth - Leith, Grangemouth, Rosyth, Methil, Burntisland and Kirkcaldy. Within and around the Firths of Forth and Tay, Forth Ports manages and operates an area of 280 square miles of navigable waters, including two specialised marine terminals for oil and gas export and provides other marine services, such as towage and conservancy. http://www.forthports.co.uk @forthports About Arcus Infrastructure Partners Arcus Infrastructure Partners is an independent fund manager focussed solely on mid-market investments in European infrastructure. Arcus invests on behalf of institutional investors through discretionary funds and special co-investment vehicles and, through its subsidiaries, currently manages investments with an aggregate enterprise value in excess of 17bn (as of 30th June 2018). Arcus targets value-add infrastructure investments, with a particular focus on businesses in the transportation, energy and telecommunications sectors. http://www.arcusip.com About PSP Investments The Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments) is one of Canada's largest pension investment managers with C$153 billion of net assets as of 31st March, 2018. It manages a diversified global portfolio composed of investments in public financial markets, private equity, real estate, infrastructure, natural resources and private debt. Established in 1999, PSP Investments manages net contributions to the pension funds of the federal Public Service, the Canadian Forces, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Reserve Force. Headquartered in Ottawa, PSP Investments has its principal business office in Montreal and offices in New York and London. For more information, visit investpsp.com or follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. SOURCE Forth Ports Limited Last Chance to Get Your Vote to Count in US Mid-Terms Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico - Though the General Election is still a month away, it's time for U.S. overseas voters to start returning their absentee ballots to ensure they arrive by state deadlines. Here in Puerto Vallarta, VotefromAbroad volunteers will be available on Wednesday, October 10 at tables in front of Daiquiri Dick's, from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm, to provide information on getting your ballots back to the U.S. in time. It is past the safe interval to get your ballots sent back in the U.S. consulate pouch. For those who requested absentee ballots sent, all states have sent ballots to those registered and who requested those ballots. If you have not received yours and are registered, call or email your election commission to ask again. To return ballots, the following states allow ballots to be faxed: Alaska (request a ballot by email first), Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska (contact for permission), Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah, Washington, West Virginia. Check with your local election office to find out if a paper ballot is necessary to send to validate as well. If so, send the paper ballot only. Some states allow ballots to be scanned and emailed back. They are: Arizona, Colorado (through ballotreturn.sos.colorado.gov only), Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, South Carolina, Utah, Washington, West Virginia. Check with your local election office to determine if a paper ballot is required as back-up and, if so, send only the paper ballot. If a paper ballot is not required, ask if they have a secure email address for sending your ballot, and if you need to send a proof of identification as well. If your state is not mentioned above, paper ballots are required. If you have not yet sent one, you have a couple of options. First, you can send your ballot through IShop & Mail on Mina (about block east from the lighthouse on the Malecon) or in the Peninsula Shopping Center. The charge is 76 pesos and you will have to provide U.S. postage. It will take 8 to 10 days to get there. If you are too late to receive a state ballot, a Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB) is available at our volunteer tables or can be downloaded from VoteFromAbroad.org or fvap.gov. This ballot allows you to vote for Senators and Representatives only for this election. The same modes of delivery apply to these FWAB ballots. For further information regarding your state requirements, ask the volunteers on October 10 or contact your local election commission. You can also get answers at iwillvote.com. GB Sciences explores the therapeutic potential of the chemical diversity within different varieties of the cannabis plant to make better medicine for patients worldwide. LAS VEGAS, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- GB Sciences, Inc. (OTCQB: GBLX) initiates a new project with the Department of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry at the National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece. Titled: The Cannabis Metabolomics ("Canna-bolomics") Project, the program will analyze each of GB Sciences' cultivars to determine whether additional molecules in these cultivars, and hundreds of other natural cannabis and hemp cultivars, show significant promise to treat diseases. "GB Sciences is widening the lens with which we observe and characterize plant-based, cannabis-derived chemical mixtures for human therapies starting from GB Sciences' stock genotypes. Standard potency assays in Nevada only measure about ten cannabinoids and twenty-one terpenoids, whereas, metabolomic analyses allow us to measure all of the molecules in these mixtures to identify new compounds that potentially provide additional medical benefits for new patent-pending therapeutic mixtures," explains Dr. Andrea Small-Howard, Chief Science Officer of GB Sciences. "In addition, we will look for disease-modifying compounds in other Cannabis genotypes using both functional assays and full metabolomic studies performed in parallel between GB Sciences and the University of Athens, respectively. Together, we can make better medicines that capitalize on the diversity of the biology of the plant." GB Sciences' current research efforts has yielded multiple patent applications containing novel cannabinoid-containing complex mixtures (CCCM) composed of cannabinoids and terpenoids that work synergistically. While the complex mixtures in GB Sciences current patent applications show clinical promise, GB Sciences had been limited in defining the formulations by their current method of measuring the secondary metabolites using third-party testing labs in Nevada. Professor Leandros Skaltsounis, Director of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry of the University of Athens says, "The University of Athens welcomes this very important collaboration. In fact, this is our first international collaboration in this extremely important field. This project will increase our knowledge on chemical composition and enable us to better select the appropriate cannabis compounds to develop the next generation of therapeutic medicines." John Poss, CEO and Chairman of GB Sciences says, "GB Sciences is excited about our new Canna-bolomics Project with the University of Athens. The potential for metabolomics methods to expand our formulations and improve the efficacy of our cannabis-based human therapies could bring our cannabis-based drug discovery efforts to the next level." "This announcement is an important moment for medical cannabis research and Greece's emerging cannabis industry," said Annie Camarioti, co-founder of the Athens-based cannabis consultancy Medicanna, "The collaboration brings together GB Sciences' unparalleled cannabinoid expertise with the University of Athens' extraordinary faculty. It's a vital new chapter for cannabis research and for our country." About GB Sciences, Inc. GB Sciences, Inc. (OTCQB: GBLX) is a diverse cannabis company, focused on standardized cultivation and production methods; as well as biopharmaceutical research and development. The Company's goal is creating safe, standardized, pharmaceutical-grade, cannabinoid therapies that target a variety of medical conditions. To learn more about GB Sciences, Inc., go to: http://gbsciences.com. About the University of Athens The University of Athens (UOA) is the oldest and most renowned academic institution in Greece and is constantly among the most highly ranked educational institutions worldwide. With a human capital of over 2.000 academics, 80.000 undergraduate and postgraduate students and some 1.300 administrative staff, the University of Athens has been at the forefront of research and academic excellence. Pharmacy is one of the first scientific subjects to be included in the University of Athens curriculum. On 1835 by Royal Decree was established in Athens the "Theoretical and Practical Didactic Shop of Surgery, Medicine and Pharmacopoeia". Today, the Department of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry and the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry are included among the top 100 Pharmacy Departments globally, as indicated by the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). With state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities we are at the forefront of research on the development of the next generation of biologically active natural compounds, characterization of complex mixtures, profiling and quantitation, pharmacokinetics and bioavailability studies. Up-to-date NMR and MS techniques are employed for metabolomics approaches (NMR & LC-MS) in diverse substrates such as biological fluids, tissues and cells. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain statements relating to future results or events, which are forward-looking statements. Words such as "expects", "intends", "plans", "may", "could", "should", "anticipates", "likely", "believes" and words of similar import may identify forward-looking statements. These statements are not historical facts, but instead represent only the Company's belief regarding future events, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the Company's control. It is possible that the Company's actual results and financial condition may differ, possibly materially, from the anticipated results and financial condition indicated in these forward-looking statements. Further, information concerning the Company and its business, including factors that potentially could materially affect the Company's business and financial and other results, are contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, available at www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release, and we do not undertake any obligation to publicly update or correct any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that subsequently occur or of which we hereafter become aware. Note: Although the Company's research and development activities are not illegal, the production and sale of cannabis products violate federal laws as they presently exist. Contact Information Corporate: GB Sciences, Inc., 3550 West Teco Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89118 866-721-0297, or Tom Arcuragi, EVP, [email protected] SOURCE GB Sciences, Inc. Related Links http://gbsciences.com/ MEXICO CITY, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Genaro Garcia Luna, Director of GLAC Consulting, is placing a distinct spotlight on all things cyber security. It is estimated that Cyber crime damage costs to hit $6 trillion annually by 2021. Understanding the impact that the cyber realm can have on the well-being of a company is a passion of Genaro Garcia Luna and his company, GLAC Consulting. GLAC Consulting is able to provide quality cyber security services to clients of his company through their unique "GLAC Index." The GLAC Index performs a comparative analysis of security in different territories and over time, generating knowledge and foresight. GLAC Consulting The "GLAC Index," created by GLAC Consulting, is Luna's best defense toward cyber attacks. It is calculated with its own algorithm as a method of assessing the level of security of a place or entity. Luna said, "The GLAC Index measures and analyzes the conditions of a vulnerable community and compares the variables and factors that affect the behavior of the entity subject to study. The contribution of this Index could contribute to the prevention and combat violence and cybercrime. "One of the factors that GLAC Consulting considers is the potential for cyber attacks. As this threat increases with time, it becomes more and more timely for companies to assure their employees and customers that they have systems in place to prevent cyber disaster. GLAC Consulting's mission is to educate and to assist these companies in and entities to develop these programs." Genaro Garcia Luna is not only the director of GLAC Consulting, but he is also the creator of the AFI during the presidency of Vicente Fox (2000-2006) and former Secretary of Public Safety during the administration of Felipe Calderon (2006-2012). Due to all of his experiences in the realm of security, Genaro Garcia Luna saw the need for a tool that would allow the government to analyze the country as a whole or an entity within it with the greatest number of variables that may affect its security and, with regards to the private sector, have detailed information that would contribute to making decisions regarding potential investments. For more information www.glacconsulting.com/en or call GLAC Consulting at +52 (55) 50811970. About GLAC Consulting: In addition to the GLAC Index, GLAC Consulting near Miami also offers complete solutions for security, technology, and risk analysis for the whole world. Under its director, Genaro Garcia Luna, GLAC Consulting is a risk analysis company that has the methods to help the world obtain better security. GLAC Consulting (786) 272-6361 [email protected] Related Links About Us Our Cyber Security Services SOURCE GLAC Consulting Related Links http://www.glacconsulting.com/en LONDON, Oct. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Global High-throughput Satellite Market to Reach $7.31 Billion by 2023 The global high-throughput satellite market has exhibited a high growth in the recent past.Currently, the space industry is at the cusp of a major revolution, as a large number of HTS are expected to be launched in the next five years. Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/5580324 The HTS market has witnessed a high growth rate owing to the growing need for network connectivity, rise in the demand for high-throughput satellite constellations, and increase in the deployment of high-throughput satellites for commercial end users.The recent innovations in satellite equipment and services enable the HTS technology to reach a wider segment of consumers in the industry. HTS deliver much higher capacity than do traditional satellites at a mere fraction of the cost.This is made possible because HTS are based on spot beam technology, which enables frequency re-use across multiple narrow-focused spot beams. High-throughput satellites offer unique advantages and have a huge potential to serve various application areas such as enterprise network, government, and cellular backhaul, among others. The following points provide a concrete description of the report content and of the topics covered in the report: This report identifies the global high-throughput satellite market in different segments, such as application, payload, and region. The study talks about the prime supply side factors affecting the growth of the market along with the current and future trends in the high-throughput satellite market. The study also presents a detailed assessment of the high-throughput satellite market along with market drivers, challenges, and growth opportunities. The report also highlights the value chain of the overall high-throughput satellite industry. A detailed competitive analysis has been included in this report, which focuses on the key market developments and strategies followed by the major players in the market. The high-throughput satellite market is also analyzed on the basis of different applications such as broadband, mobility, enterprise, government, cellular backhaul, and broadcast. In this report, various subsystems of the high-throughput satellite market have also been studied. The subsystems include payload, structure, telecommunication, on-board computers, power system, attitude control system, and propulsion system. The high-throughput satellite market has been analyzed for all the regions including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest-of-the-World with further analysis with respect to several major countries in the region. The key market players are analyzed in the Company Profiles section of the report. This section covers the business financials, company snapshots, key products & services, major developments, and the individual SWOT analysis. Executive Summary Satellite technology has evolved over the past 60 years since the inception of the technology from the government-funded projects to commercial ventures.The space industry is filled with a series of space missions, which utilize resources to create value and benefit society, globally, in terms of understanding, exploring, researching, managing, and utilizing space. Telstar was the first private sector communication satellite, which transmitted voice, television, and data between the U.S. and the Europe, thus opening space to the commercial end users. The technological advances in the payload of a satellite have drastically reduced the cost per bit to the end users.One such advancement is the development of high-throughput satellites (HTS) that transmit 20 times more data than do conventional satellites. HTS deliver much higher capacity than do traditional satellites at a mere fraction of the cost. This is made possible because HTS are based on spot beam technology, which enables frequency re-use across multiple narrow-focused spot beams. FIGURE 1 Global High-throughput Satellite Market, 2017-2023 Global High-throughput Satellite Market Source: Secondary Research, Expert Views, and BIS Research Analysis The HTS market has witnessed a high growth rate owing to the growing need for network connectivity, rise in the demand for high-throughput satellite constellations, and increase in the deployment of high-throughput satellites for commercial end users. The high-throughput satellite market is developing significantly and much of this has been attributed to the rapid technological advancement in this field. Global high-throughput satellite market (capacity revenue) generated a revenue of $3,466 million in 2017, with broadband application holding the highest share. FIGURE 2 Global HTS Market Analysis (by Application) Global HTS Market Source: Secondary Research, Expert Views, and BIS Research Analysis Global high-throughput satellite market is segmented into six types: broadband, mobility, enterprise, government, cellular backhaul, and broadcast.Consumer broadband dominated the global high-throughput satellite market (capacity revenue) in 2017. The growing need for the data connectivity across the globe is the reason behind the biggest market share of consumer broadband. During the forecast period, mobility market is expected to grow at a faster rate in comparison with the other types. The growing need for the inflight and maritime connectivity is the major factor driving the high growth. North America, followed by Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Europe is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period (2018-2023).The United States is the leading country in the global high-throughput satellite market, and the country is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period. Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at the highest CAGR, with Indonesia dominating the market in this region. This region is growing at a much faster rate as compared to the North America and Europe due to continuous efforts by both the government and the high-throughput satellite operators. Some of the key players in the high-throughput satellite market include: Airbus Group SE, Eutelsat S.A., Hughes Network Systems, LLC, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Orbital ATK Inc., SES S.A., Space Systems Loral, Thales Group, and The Boeing Company. Countries Covered North America The U.S. Canada Europe The U.K. Spain Russia Rest-of-Europe Asia-Pacific China India Indonesia Rest-of-Asia-pacific Middle East and Africa Latin America Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/5580324 About Reportbuyer Reportbuyer is a leading industry intelligence solution that provides all market research reports from top publishers For more information: Sarah Smith Research Advisor at Reportbuyer.com Email: [email protected] Tel: +1 (718) 213 4904 Website: www.reportbuyer.com SOURCE ReportBuyer Related Links http://www.reportbuyer.com Moutai, a Chinese spirit with a history going back centuries, is not just an alcoholic beverage, but also a symbol of a culture and a tradition that describes itself through the aroma and taste rather than words. Connoisseurs of the beverage, who have now gotten a chance to know each other personally through their connection to the beverage, each have their own interpretation of what Moutai represents for them. This cannot be explained by the traditional theory of market segmentation as described by Kweichow Moutai Group party committee secretary, chairman and general manager Li Baofang, "The company never attempts to define the consumers of Moutai." On the many globetrotting roadshows that Moutai has engaged in over the years, the traveling delegation has always received a warm welcome from Moutai fans at each stop along the way, whether locally in the town of Zhenxiong at the mouth of the Chishui, in Dunhuang, the hometown of Buddhism mural art on the other side of China, or abroad, at the Cape of Good Hope in Africa or Sydney Cove in Australia. Fans from around the world gathered as one Moutai family High quality consumer products built with craftsmanship often excel in terms of appeal. Held every year on the last day of September, the Global Moutai Fans Festival assembles the world's Moutai fans in Chishui, providing a unique opportunity to celebrate the brand together. The clock had not even struck 8 am on September 30, when 1915 Square was already crowded with fans of the popular drink. The denizens of the town of Moutai welcomed guests who strolled about its many streets and lanes and took in the sites, often expressing curiosity at what they saw. Many had come from the four corners of the globe, in several cases from far-flung countries. Some may have little contact with the Chinese culture perviously, but had nevertheless undertaken the long voyage, simply out of love for and appreciation of the distinctly Chinese beverage. The local inhabitants were surprised as they had never seen so many people coming from so many different cultures and backgrounds in their small town at one time. At precisely 9 am, the opening ceremony commenced. "Moutai fans who love, acknowledge and share their passion for Moutai have become an integral part of the Moutai family," said chairman Li during his opening remarks, warmly welcoming the guests when he said "welcome home" and "thank you Moutai fans". "Respecting and being thankful to Moutai fans have also become an important part of the Moutai culture as they have made significant contributions to the sustainable development of our brand," said Li. Every guest felt the sincerity of Mr. Li's words and that they were not uttered simply out of courtesy, as they are themselves not only the best Moutai storytellers, but also the best Moutai culture communicators. At 9:50 am, the distinguished guests gathered around and, as a group, jointly poured Moutai into a specially-prepared bottle, setting of fireworks that lit up the morning sky above. "I've never felt so happy today as when the festival kicked off, providing a platform built on love and equal access for all Moutai fans, regardless of their age or social status," stated Mr. Li who wore a red T-shirt made especially for Moutai fans. Savouring the taste of Moutai while giving back to the community The Moutai Fans Festival is unique among similar events of its kind. The festival included a variety of entertaining events for Moutai fans, culminating with the charity event at which the loyalty medals were awarded and the Moutai gala night that got underway just after 4 pm. The eye-catching Moutai loyalty medals, a symbol of the deep bond between Moutai fans and Moutai and a testament to their collective efforts, were personally awarded by senior executives of Kweichow Moutai Group. The auction for charitable causes offered a variety of items for sale with the proceeds to be used in a public-interest program designed to protect the ecological environment along the Chishui River. The festival is not only an unforgettable annual event for Moutai fans, but also a platform through which Kweichow Moutai Group delivers on its responsibilities and connects with the myriad Moutai fans. As Mr. Li said in his speech at the event, the festival has become a key platform through which Moutai fans connect and then reconnect as they deepen their friendships. The event has also become a unique symbol of the Moutai culture, with its initial mission of gathering of Moutai fans in Moutai's hometown, giving them an unmatched opportunity to taste and talk among themselves about their beloved drink. The ultimate aim is to continuously promote the further development of the Moutai philosophy "Aroma, Integrity and Harmony", and to be constantly adding vitality to the Moutai culture. A number of distinguished guests attended the opening ceremony, including Renhuai mayor and municipal party committee deputy secretary Wang Nengke, Renhuai executive vice mayor Ran Yongjun, the town of Moutai party committee secretary Wang Tingyong as well as several members of Moutai Group top management including party committee secretary, chairman and general manager Li Baofang, party committee deputy secretary Wang Yan, party committee member and deputy general manager Zhang Deqin, party committee member, deputy general manager and chief accountant Yang Jianjun, party committee member and discipline inspection commission secretary Zuoma Cairang, party committee member and general counselor Liu Hanlin and Kweichow Moutai Company Limited deputy general managers Wan Bo, Wang Chonglin and Zhong Zhengqiang. "The festival is not only an event where participants can enjoy premium Moutai but also a large gathering where Moutai fans can build on the friendships they have formed with other fans," said Wang Nengke, the Renhuai mayor, when delivering a speech at the ceremony. "Moutai fans from around the world gathered in the town of Moutai as a result of their passion for and gratefulness to Moutai. The Kweichow Moutai gathering provides Moutai fans with both a platform where they can share their success and an environment where they can become deeply immersed in the Moutai culture and spirit." On behalf of the 700,000 residents of the town of Moutai, Mr. Wang invited Moutai fans worldwide to come to the hometown of the brand not just once, but as often as they wish, and to visit the nearby town of Renhuai in addition to participating in the event. About the Global Moutai Fans Festival In October 2013, Kweichow Moutai Group launched a fan recruitment drive on its official Weibo account, followed by a series of fan events held in Beijing and Shanghai the following month. The drive and subsequent growth of a registered fan base culminated in the Global Moutai Fans Festival 2017, the first global gathering of lovers of the beverage following Kweichow Moutai Group's hosting of events in several Chinese cities, among them, Chengdu, Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Shanghai, followed by similar events abroad, in Japan, the US and Russia, in addition to other countries. In 2018, over 2,000 Moutai fans from around the world has gathered in the town of Moutai to taste Moutai and take part in various events during the festival. SOURCE Kweichow Moutai Group SAN ANTONIO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Green Beret Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting soldiers of the U.S. Army Special Forces and their families, is pleased to announce the appointment of Pat Hilburn as Senior Manager of Development to the Foundation. Hilburn previously served as Campaign Director at Light The Night, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's nationally recognized funding campaign to build awareness of blood cancers. "I am elated about the opportunity to work with such an innovative and generous organization like the Green Beret Foundation," said Hilburn. "The Green Beret community has been close to my heart for some time, and I look forward to upholding the mission of supporting these Special Forces soldiers and their families in a new and proactive way through this role." Hilburn's start in the non-profit space began with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in 2006. She first served as Campaign Manager for the Society and later on became Director. While serving as Director, Hilburn oversaw the South Central Texas Chapter's largest fundraising campaign. During this time, Hilburn raised over $1.7 million gross annually, totaling more than $7.4 million during her career with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Prior to joining The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Hilburn was employed for three years as a high school teacher at Highlands school in San Antonio's inner city school district. "We're extremely excited that Pat has decided to take the role as Senior Manager of Development with our Foundation," said Jim Kester, Vice Chairman of the Green Beret Foundation Board of Directors. "Her extensive knowledge of fundraising, engagement and cultivation in her previous position makes her well positioned to lead our Foundation going forward. Her passion and commitment to Special Forces soldiers and their families ensures that this will only take our Foundation higher." Hilburn earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Texas A&M University in 2002, majoring in English. About the Green Beret Foundation: Founded in 2009, the Green Beret Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the long-term health of the Green Beret community. The Foundation answers the call of the Green Berets and their families so that they can succeed in their next mission. Green Berets serve a little understood mission and face unique challenges when they come home. To aid in the transitions of Green Berets and their families, the Foundation provides casualty support, extended care support, family support and transition support. For more information, visit: www.greenberetfoundation.org. SOURCE Green Beret Foundation Related Links http://www.greenberetfoundation.org. CHICAGO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- HealthScape Advisors, a management consulting firm dedicated to the healthcare industry, recently announced the organization has achieved Preferred Vendor status with the Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP). ACAP is a national trade association representing not-for-profit Safety Net Health Plans that cover more than 20 million lives and nearly half of all individuals enrolled in Medicaid. HealthScape is now part of an exclusive group of vendors nominated by at least one ACAP member plan and approved by all ACAP plans, as well as the association's Board, to become a Preferred Vendor. The ACAP Preferred Vendor program allows member plans access to vendors endorsed by their peers for successfully addressing the complex challenges facing safety net plans. HealthScape's extensive government programs experience spanning Medicaid, Medicare and the ACA market contributed greatly to its selection into the program. Over the past three years, HealthScape has supported 50+ health plans with engagements to enter, expand and enhance their presence in these markets. Some notable services offered by HealthScape to ACAP member plans to assist with operational support, compliance, and improved data processes include: Market Entry Evaluation and Support Accelerated Growth and Expansion Strategies Operating Model Design and Execution Care Model Design Through consulting services, ACAP members also have access to technology and analytics solutions delivered by HealthScape's affiliate, Pareto Intelligence, including: Risk Documentation Improvement and Compliance Data Integrity Provider Engagement Compliance Evaluation Advisory "Being endorsed by a client partner for this program is a testament to our understanding of and ability to navigate market complexities for safety net plans," said Michelle Werr, Principal with HealthScape. "We recognize these plans are facing increasing regulation given CMS's emphasis on program integrity, while also pursuing strategies to expand local market share and manage costs. We look forward to supporting ACAP by sharing our expertise and providing access to our robust suite of analytics solutions." "We're pleased to welcome HealthScape as an ACAP Preferred Vendor," said ACAP CEO Margaret A. Murray. "Preferred Vendors are nominated by one Safety Net Health Plan and approved by all. We're excited to learn how our member plans can benefit from their expertise and resources." About ACAP The Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP) represents 62 Safety Net Health Plans, which provide health coverage to more than 21 million people in 29 states. Safety Net Health Plans serve their members through Medicaid, Medicare, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), the Marketplace and other health programs. For more information, visit www.communityplans.net. About HealthScape Advisors HealthScape Advisors is a privately held management consulting firm dedicated to serving clients within the healthcare industry. We provide consulting services to commercial and government health plans, specialty health organizations, health systems and providers, and healthcare investors, helping them to grow, improve performance, and transform their businesses. To learn more, visit our website at www.healthscape.com. SOURCE HealthScape Advisors Related Links http://www.healthscape.com "We believe small businesses are the life blood of our communities. It's important to note that Huntington first gained this SBA loan origination leadership position within our footprint in October of 2008at the very beginning of recessionwhen small businesses needed access to capital. These latest SBA results represent our decade-long commitment to strengthening the communities we serve," said Huntington Business Banking Director, Michael Wamsganz. "SBA loans continue to be a great source of capital for a wide range of businesses, from those looking to get a start, to those focused on expanding their business, to those looking to transition their business to new owners," said Huntington's SBA program director, Maggie Ference. "SBA programs offer great tools for new business owners to support their small business growth and expansion needs." The SBA 7(a) lending program provides government backing, enabling small business lenders to extend credit to business owners who are not yet able to access conventional bank financing with reduced lender risk. For more information, visit www.huntington.com/SmallBusiness/loans/sba-guarantee-business-loans. About Huntington Huntington Bancshares Incorporated is a regional bank holding company headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, with $105 billion of assets and a network of 966 branches and 1,848 ATMs across eight Midwestern states. Founded in 1866, The Huntington National Bank and its affiliates provide consumer, small business, commercial, treasury management, wealth management, brokerage, trust, and insurance services. Huntington also provides auto dealer, equipment finance, national settlement and capital market services that extend beyond its core states. Visit huntington.com for more information. The Huntington National Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. The Huntington Logo and Huntington are federally registered service marks of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. SOURCE Huntington Bank BENGALURU, India, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Infosys (NYSE: INFY) has been assigned A3 local-currency senior unsecured credit rating with a Stable Outlook by Moody's Investor Service (Moody's), the well-known global rating agency. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/633365/Infosys_Logo.jpg ) Given Infosys' international revenue base and strong financial profile, Moody's has rated Infosys two notches higher than the Government of India (Baa2 stable). Moody's stated that its rating is based on Infosys' status as one of the world's leading Information Technology (IT) consulting and services companies, with diversified operations across multiple business segments and geographies, industry-leading profitability and a solid balance sheet. The stable outlook on Infosys' ratings takes into account solid liquidity, a debt-free balance sheet, strong operating metrics, a robust business model and Moody's expectation that its competitive strength will be retained. "The rating by Moody's is a testimony to the resilient global business model of Infosys which has delivered consistent business outcomes over the years. The rating underscores the company's strategic direction of helping our clients navigate the next in their journey. This is reflective of the company's robust financial position, healthy cash flow and industry leading financial performance," said M.D. Ranganath, Chief Financial Officer. Infosys has an existing rating of A- from Standard & Poor's (S&P's) Ratings Service. With Moody's and S&P's ratings, Infosys will now enjoy dual investment grade ratings which are higher than India's sovereign ratings from both the above agencies. Moody's press release on its ratings actions is available at https://www.moodys.com/research/Moodys-assigns-A3-rating-to-Infosys-outlook-stable--PR_389586 About Infosys Infosys is a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting. We enable clients in 45 countries to navigate their digital transformation. With over three decades of experience in managing the systems and workings of global enterprises, we expertly steer our clients through their digital journey. We do it by enabling the enterprise with an AI-powered core that helps prioritize the execution of change. We also empower the business with agile digital at scale to deliver unprecedented levels of performance and customer delight. Our always-on learning agenda drives their continuous improvement through building and transferring digital skills, expertise, and ideas from our innovation ecosystem. Visit http://www.infosys.com to see how Infosys (NYSE: INFY) can help your enterprise navigate your next. Safe Harbor Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the 'safe harbor' under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements concerning our future business opportunities and growth prospects. Such forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding fluctuations in earnings, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, our ability to manage growth, intense competition in IT services including those factors which may affect our cost advantage, wage increases in India, our ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, client concentration, restrictions on immigration, industry segment concentration, our ability to manage our international operations, reduced demand for technology in our key focus areas, disruptions in telecommunication networks or system failures, our ability to successfully complete and integrate potential acquisitions, liability for damages on our service contracts, the success of the companies in which Infosys has made strategic investments, withdrawal or expiration of governmental fiscal incentives, political instability and regional conflicts, legal restrictions on raising capital or acquiring companies outside India, and unauthorized use of our intellectual property and general economic conditions affecting our industry. Additional risks that could affect our future operating results are more fully described in our United States Securities and Exchange Commission filings including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2018. These filings are available at http://www.sec.gov. Infosys may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. In addition, please note that any forward-looking statements contained herein are based on assumptions that we believe to be reasonable as of the date of this press release. The company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the company unless it is required by law. SOURCE Infosys BENGALURU, India, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Infosys Finacle, part of EdgeVerve Systems, a product subsidiary of Infosys (NYSE: INFY), today announced the launch of Finacle Digital Engagement Suite, an advanced omnichannel solution suite that helps banks onboard, sell, service and engage customers with tailored experiences. This builds on the success of Finacle's omnichannel solution suite that has been consistently recognized as a leader by several industry analysts and has been adopted by banks across 78 countries. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/633365/Infosys_Logo.jpg ) Infosys Finacle also introduced the Finacle Digital Engagement Hub, its next-generation omnichannel hub offering that powers all the channel applications of the engagement suite. The hub works seamlessly with all back-end applications such as core banking, trade finance, payments and liquidity management as well as channel applications such as mobile banking, branch solution and chat bots. It offers extensive capabilities to design customer-centric processes leading to consistent cross-channel experiences. Highlights The suite offers a broad range of traditional, modern and emerging channel experiences covering all user personas such as end customers, internal users, partners, and API led interactions with trusted parties. The solution offers comprehensive capabilities to engage retail, wealth, small business and corporate customer segments with impactful digital propositions. The suite accelerates the speed of internal and external innovation with a broad suite of Open APIs and a strong ecosystem of partner innovations powered by the Finacle App Center. It's advanced micro-services based, cloud-first architecture is designed to offer high scalability to help banks keep pace with rapidly increasing digital interactions. The unified engagement hub, with its unique engagement architecture, enables personalization of the customer experience. It ingests structured and unstructured data to sense, decide and deliver effective recommendations to improve customer experience, drive financial well-being, improve cross-sell success, and minimize fraud risks. The componentized structure of the suite enables banks to take a flexible approach to transformation, by deploying it for select channels or customer segments. Quotes Mohit Joshi, President, Infosys: "One of the key pillars of our strategy to help our clients navigate the next in their journey, is leveraging the power of agile digital to drive new levels of business performance and customer delight. The Finacle Digital Engagement Solution Suite strengthens our offerings and is a key differentiator for us. The suite will help our clients address and meet the new and ever demanding requirements of empowered customers across channels." Sanat Rao, Chief Business Officer, Infosys Finacle: "The Finacle Engagement Suite offers a comprehensive and versatile platform to help banks achieve the dual objectives of their digital transformation. On one hand, it helps digitize and optimize existing business processes, products and services to enhance experience, drive agility and operational excellence. At the same time, it empowers banks to deliver new digital products and services by applying modern technologies to create new sources of revenue and new operating models." Bob Meara, Senior Analyst, Celent: "The digital bar has been raised in two important ways. First, digital is no longer simply about facilitating convenient, low-friction self-service transactions, it is also about customer engagement across the entire customer lifecycle. Secondly, digital is no longer simply a self-service platform; it is quickly becoming an omnichannel system of enablement and engagement across all customer touchpoints - including in-person channels. The Finacle Digital Engagement Suite appears well-positioned for this new era in banking." About Infosys Finacle Finacle is the industry-leading digital banking solution suite from EdgeVerve Systems, a wholly owned product subsidiary of Infosys. Finacle helps traditional and emerging financial institutions drive truly digital transformation to achieve frictionless customer experiences, larger ecosystem play, insights-driven interactions and ubiquitous automation. Today, banks in over 100 countries rely on Finacle to service more than a billion consumers and 1.3 billion accounts. Finacle solutions address the core banking, omnichannel banking, payments, treasury, origination, liquidity management, Islamic banking, wealth management, analytics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain requirements of financial institutions to drive business excellence. An assessment of the top 1,250 banks in the world reveals that institutions powered by the Finacle Core Banking solution, on average, enjoy 7.2% points lower costs-to-income ratio than others. To know more, visit http://www.finacle.com Safe Harbor Certain statements in this release concerning our future growth prospects are forward-looking statements regarding our future business expectations intended to qualify for the 'safe harbor' under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding fluctuations in earnings, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, our ability to manage growth, intense competition in IT services including those factors which may affect our cost advantage, wage increases in India, our ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, client concentration, restrictions on immigration, industry segment concentration, our ability to manage our international operations, reduced demand for technology in our key focus areas, disruptions in telecommunication networks or system failures, our ability to successfully complete and integrate potential acquisitions, liability for damages on our service contracts, the success of the companies in which Infosys has made strategic investments, withdrawal or expiration of governmental fiscal incentives, political instability and regional conflicts, legal restrictions on raising capital or acquiring companies outside India, and unauthorized use of our intellectual property and general economic conditions affecting our industry. Additional risks that could affect our future operating results are more fully described in our United States Securities and Exchange Commission filings including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2018. These filings are available at http://www.sec.gov. Infosys may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. In addition, please note that the date of this press release is mentioned at the beginning of the release, and any forward-looking statements contained herein are based on assumptions that we believe to be reasonable as of this date. The company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the company unless it is required by law. SOURCE Infosys NASHIELLI: Plastic Surgery Specialists in Mexico After almost any vacation, you're going to look a bit more relaxed and refreshed, at least for a few days or weeks. But when you come to Mexico for plastic surgery, you'll be able to enjoy a more attractive, revitalized look that can last for many years to come. Internationally recognized as a top-notch medical tourism destination, Mexico is an ideal location for vacation surgery. And, with plastic surgery treatments performed by highly trained and board certified medical professionals costing significantly less in Mexico than they do up North, you can enjoy the vacation of your dreams and return home looking, and feeling, better. Since one of the most appealing things about cosmetic surgery vacations is being able to relax and enjoy yourself while recovering from your treatment, NASHIELLI Plastic Surgery Specialists offer aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery procedures in two of Mexico's most popular vacation destinations: Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. Whether you are looking to freshen up your face, breasts, body, or want a combination of restorative procedures, NASHIELLI's team of medical professionals will work with you to determine the perfect balance of your image from an objective, aesthetic, harmonious and healthy point of view, so the final results exceed all of your expectations. About Doctor Nashielli Torres Espinosa Chiu Doctor Nashielli Torres Espinosa Chiu With a renowned reputation for her expertise, attention to detail, and relaxed and friendly bedside manner, Doctor Nashielli Torres Espinosa Chiu offers personalized surgeries and patient consultations at Hospital San Javier Marina in Puerto Vallarta, as well as in her office in Guadalajara. Board certified by the Mexican Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and a member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Nashielli Torres has been specializing in facial surgeries as well as body procedures for more than 10 years. (Click HERE for a full list of her medical credentials.) For those who are looking for a change but are not ready for surgery, Dr. Nashielli offers the latest non-invasive techniques for skin tightening, including HI-FU and Dermapen. Dr. Nashielli's goal is to provide the most natural results possible to help you look your best but, since your safety always comes first, she insists on pre-op consultations and exams to ascertain that it's safe to proceed with the desired procedure. Understanding the importance of personalized attention, NASHIELLI Plastic Surgery Center also offers an excellent International Patient Coordinators team that focuses on your specific needs to make your cosmetic surgery vacation in Mexico as comfortable and pleasant as possible. For more information, call +1 52 (333) 848-5454 or visit nashielli.com or facialplasticsurgerymexico.com. For a virtual consultation, contact International Patient Coordinator, Lori Payne, at support(at)nashielli.com. STONY BROOK, N.Y., Oct. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Softheon, a national leader in cloud-based health insurance exchange integration and services, announced today the addition of Jim Wadleigh as Chief Operating Officer (COO). Wadleigh will report directly to Eugene Sayan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and be responsible for aligning cross-departmental strategies to enhance Softheon's overall operational efficiency. "We are privileged to welcome Jim into the Softheon family," said Sayan. "He brings a proven track record of operational leadership and excellence to our executive team. Jim will play a key role in expanding our product offerings and broadening our customer base with a focus on Softheon's operational execution." In his former role as CEO of Access Health Connecticut (AHCT), Wadleigh contributed to lowering the state's uninsured population by 50 percent, was responsible for improving healthcare quality, lowering costs, and reducing health disparities. During his tenure, AHCT was recognized as a national model for success with its stable Exchange rollout and for lowering Connecticut's uninsured rate below 4 percent. Wadleigh received numerous distinctions including being named a 2015 CIO 100 winner by CIO Magazine, 2014 PMO Global Project of the Year Finalist by the Project Management Institute, and 2014 Healthcare Innovator of the Year by HealthTech Research & Advisory Council (HTRAC). Bringing more than 25 years of healthcare experience to this newly created role, Wadleigh has broad expertise stemming across multiple financial, technology, and insurance markets. "When you combine Softheon's leading technology and culture of innovation, the potential is truly unlimited," said Wadleigh. "I'm excited to join at such a pivotal time and honored to be part of a team that's shaping the future of healthcare." About Softheon Softheon is a HIPAA, NIST 800-53, SOC 2 Type, FedRAMP, and MITA 3.0 aligned cloud platform. Softheon offers health plan benefit shopping & account management, secure EDI processing, enrollment & underwriting, premium billing & payment, and data analytics and reporting designed for healthcare issuers, government agencies, brokers, and employers to manage Affordable Care Act and Managed Medicaid programs. With a client base of +55 health plans and states, including 3 of the top 10 most successful health insurers participating on ACA Marketplaces, partners trust Softheon's PaaS, SaaS, and BPaaS products and services. As a Payment Facilitator managing 33% of ACA membership and processing $4B insurance premiums, Softheon is innovating the credit/debit card experience and adding the ability to do modeling and algorithms - an advantage going forward - as the healthcare industry embraces the digital transformation with telemedicine and the shift to value. SOURCE Softheon Related Links http://www.softheon.com LLumar safety and security window films offer numerous benefits; most importantly they help protect students, faculty and staff from broken glass hazards and help delay intruder forced entry through glass. Films can be applied to existing doors, windows and other building glass, making this an affordable alternative to replacing standard glass with laminated glass. One of the biggest challenges facing budget-strapped schools is how to pay for enhanced safety measures. Federal and state government funds are available to help schools defray the cost of making these upgrades. In most cases, a school or school district must have an Emergency Operations Plan developed to be considered for government funding. Eastman Performance Films has developed a resource to help dealers provide guidance to schools. "We're proud to offer our dealers a product that delivers the protection that our safety and security window film provides," said Darrell Reed, Commercial Director for Eastman Performance Films, LLC. "Our dealers are committed to providing expert and valuable guidance regarding film selection, attachment systems, and all steps involved in professional installation of security window films. The experience our dealers provide is extremely valuable to schools seeking security solutions and adding a layer of protection." To learn more about the Eastman Performance Film's safety and security window films visit https://films.llumar.com/school-safety-and-security-film/. *More Parents, Children Fearful for Safety at School, 2018 https://news.gallup.com/poll/241625/parents-children-fearful-safety-school.aspx About Eastman Performance Films, LLC With over 60 years of experience, Eastman Performance Films, LLC is a leading manufacturer and marketer of high performance window tint and paint protection film for automotive applications and window film for residential and commercial applications. About Eastman Eastman is a global advanced materials and specialty additives company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With a portfolio of specialty businesses, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. Its market-driven approaches take advantage of world-class technology platforms and leading positions in attractive end-markets such as transportation, building and construction and consumables. Eastman focuses on creating consistent, superior value for all stakeholders. As a globally diverse company, Eastman serves customers in more than 100 countries and had 2017 revenues of approximately $9.5 billion. The company is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA and employs approximately 14,500 people around the world. For more information, visit www.eastman.com. SOURCE Eastman Performance Films, LLC Related Links http://www.eastman.com Kanatsiz was honored in Rome on September 30, 2018, for his philanthropic and humanitarian works. Most notably Kanatsiz has supported various children's charities and causes, in addition to recently the Notte Gala for Savoy at the Montage Resort in April of 2018, whose proceeds benefitted Stuart House of Los Angeles, an internationally recognized, model program created by UCLA and others, to serve the special needs of sexually abused children and their families. In 1998, while studying for a master's degree at Chapman University, Kanatsiz followed his entrepreneurial spirit and formed his first company, KCOMM, a public relations and internet marketing agency. The company quickly evolved into a full-service marketing, government affairs and strategic events firm known for its expertise and results-oriented approach. The firm has developed campaigns for over 1,300 prominent companies, educational institutions, government agencies and non-profit organizations from around the world. In addition to mentoring high school and college students, Kanatsiz is often called to speak about entrepreneurship and the internet to a wide range of professional audiences on topics including social media, search engine optimization, email marketing, modernizing government and the future of the internet. He has held engagements at several universities, including USC, Chapman University, Cal State Fullerton, Pepperdine, UC Irvine and Cal Tech. Kanatsiz was also the founder of Generation NeXt in 2006, a network of young business and community leaders committed to making a difference. Additionally, he founded the Internet Marketing Association in 1998, a group that has grown to over 1,000,000 professional members worldwide. Kanatsiz also launched the International Executive Council (IEC) in 2017, a dues-based leadership group based in Southern California which has over 80 notable members. Kanatsiz holds a B.A. in Communications with an emphasis in Public Relations and a Master's degree in Organizational Leadership with a certificate in Human Resources from Chapman University. He was designated Alumnus of the Year by Chapman in 2000. He received the Community College of California Alumnus of the Year Award in 2005 and was named to the Hall of Fame for Santa Ana College in 2006. He has also been recipient of the "40 Under 40" award and as Entrepreneur of the Year by OC Metro Magazine. He and his family reside in San Clemente, California. Prince Victor Emmanuel of Savoy is the son of the late King Umberto II of Italy. The Savoy Orders are ancient orders of knighthood which date back to the Crusades, have traditionally been devoted to charitable works, and recognize individuals for their contributions in public service, medicine, the arts, music, government, business and philanthropy. The American Delegation through its charitable arm, the American Foundation of Savoy Orders, contributes to humanitarian, hospitaller and charitable projects and initiatives across North America and abroad, particularly in healthcare and hospice care, disaster relief, education programs and children's causes. Recent contributions have gone to Casita Maria, St. Jude's Research Hospital, the New York Foundling Hospital, the Near East Catholic Welfare Association, the Latin Patriarchate's University of Madaba Scholarships and the establishment of the Savoy Orders Pigott Scholarships in the humanities and international studies. About the American Delegation of Savoy Orders The American Delegation of Savoy Orders, which includes the United States of America and Canada, is a part of the Dynastic Orders of the Royal House of Savoy, among the oldest orders of chivalry in the world. The Savoy Orders are headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland and have 35 Delegations worldwide that support the ongoing charitable works of these ancient Dynastic Orders of Knighthood and Merit. Their origins and their principles, traditions and humanitarian goals date back a thousand years. HRH Prince Victor Emmanuel, Prince of Naples and Duke of Savoy, is Head of the House of Savoy and Grand Master of the Savoy Orders. His ancestor, King Victor Emmanuel II, united the nation of Italy under his rule between 1861 and 1870 and the Prince's father, King Umberto II was Italy's last reigning sovereign. Contact: Shaye Mcclory [email protected] 949-230-4381 SOURCE KCOMM Related Links http://www.kcomm.com WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- McDermott Will & Emery is proud to announce that Vernessa T. Pollard was named 2018 Regulatory Attorney of the Year: FDA Medical Devices by LMG Life Sciences. In addition to Vernessa, 11 lawyers from the Firm's Health Industry Advisory Practice garnered individual recognitions as "Life Sciences Stars" for their contributions to the field, based on client and peer feedback. Vernessa provides strategic counsel to clients on pre-market strategy, post-market compliance and policy matters involving medical devices. She advises global companies, start-ups, and investors on innovative digital health solutions, including clinical decision support (CDS), software as a medical device (SaMD), and AI-powered algorithms. On regulatory and compliance issues, she counsels clients on mergers, acquisitions and other transactions involving FDA-regulated products. As well as co-leading the Firm's FDA practice, Vernessa serves on the Food and Drug Law Institute's Medical Products Advisory Committee and is former co-chair of its Medical Devices and Diagnostics Committee. She is a founding member of MedTech Color, an organization dedicated to advancing diversity throughout the medical technology ecosystem. LMG Life Sciences also named several McDermott lawyers "Life Sciences Stars," showcasing the Firm's extensive intellectual property, litigation, transactional and regulatory legal thought-leadership across the life sciences sector. The recognized lawyers are: "These recognitions reflect the personal passion and top-notch legal counsel Vernessa and the rest of the Life Sciences team bring to clients, and which sets McDermott's lawyers apart," said Kristian Werling, co-chair of the McDermott's Life Sciences Practice. "It also underscores the collective power of our cross-practice collaborations particularly with our health care and intellectual property colleagues enabling us to provide effective strategies and unexpected solutions for our life sciences clients. We are excited to continue delivering superior results on their behalf." McDermott's Intellectual Property Practice, which had three members recognized as "Stars" by LMG Life Sciences, continues to grow and evolve, distinguishing itself through high-stakes work in the life sciences space both in the US and around the world. "We know that helping our life sciences clients protect and leverage their intellectual property assets is crucial, and requires integrated, comprehensive counsel," said Nicole Jantzi, leader of the Firm's Global Intellectual Property Practice. "Our lawyers collaborate across practice areas and draw on technical and industry expertise to ensure seamless operations and develop strategic solutions for our clients. We are honored to have this top-tier client service acknowledged by LMG Life Sciences." In addition to the individual recognitions, LMG Life Sciences also ranked McDermott as "recommended" in the areas of FDA: Medical Devices, Healthcare: Pricing & Reimbursement, Patent Strategy and Management, Product Liability, and White-Collar/Government Investigation. McDermott Will & Emery is the nation's leading health care law firm. The Health Industry Advisory group is the only health practice to receive top national rankings from US News Best Lawyers "Best Law Firms," Chambers USA, The Legal 500 US, and Law360. The practice was also recognized by Chambers as "Health Team of the Year" in 2010, 2013 and 2017. Since 2017, McDermott has taken the top spot in PitchBook's League Tables as the most active firm for health care private equity. To view the full 2018 listings from LMG Life Sciences, please click here. About McDermott Will & Emery McDermott Will & Emery is a premier international law firm with a diversified business practice. Numbering more than 1,000 lawyers, we have offices in Boston, Brussels, Chicago, Dallas, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Miami, Milan, Munich, New York, Orange County, Paris, San Francisco, Seoul, Silicon Valley and Washington, DC. Further extending our reach into Asia, we have a strategic alliance with MWE China Law Offices in Shanghai. About LMG Life Sciences LMG Life Sciences publishes the definitive guide to leading North American law firms and lawyers specialized in the life sciences industry. The guide's listings are based on online surveys and interviews with lawyers across the United States, as well as public information and feedback from clients within the industry. The annual LMG Life Sciences Awards honor the top life sciences practitioners from the US, Canada and Europe, and recognize the innovative work being accomplished throughout the life sciences industry. SOURCE McDermott Will & Emery WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Coal Council (NCC) has approved a report that will be sent to the U.S. Secretary of Energy assessing U.S. coal export potential as part of the effort to achieve U.S. energy dominance, enhance international energy security and eliminate global energy poverty. "Advancing U.S. Coal Exports: An Assessment of Opportunities to Enhance Exports of U.S. Coal" was prepared at the request of U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry. The report assesses international market opportunities for thermal and metallurgical coal from Eastern, Central and Western U.S. coal-producing regions and evaluates market, infrastructure and policy barriers impeding exports. It also calls for creating a U.S. Department of Energy-led government-wide task force to monitor and coordinate policy developments relevant to advancing coal exports. "The Trump Administration has called for unleashing U.S. coal exports to serve expanding international markets and to aid nations in achieving energy access and security," said NCC Chair Deck Slone, Senior Vice President for Strategy and Public Policy at Arch Coal. "Unleashing our coal exports is a powerful way to strengthen America's balance of trade, advance energy security and improve the quality of life for people around the world." A vibrant global export/import coal trade flow reached over 1.3 billion tonnes in 2017 according to the International Energy Agency. While significant commercial amounts of coal are exported, just 10 nations, including the United States, accounted for over 95 percent of exports last year. The seaborne market for coal is widespread globally and driven by the large demand in Asia, most notably China and India, which have used imports to bridge the gap between domestic supply and demand, a phenomenon that is expected to continue. The United States has abundant reserves of coal available to meet both domestic and international market demand. The analysis offers five recommendations to build the competitiveness and growth of U.S. coal exports: Coal Production: Deploy advanced coal mining and processing technologies to reduce production costs, thus making U.S. coals more competitive in international markets. Enhance U.S. coal mining operations with export potential in both traditional and non-traditional coal supply regions. River Transport: Streamline funding for the nation's inland waterway system in order to facilitate the cost-efficient flow of U.S. coals to international markets via U.S. East and Gulf Coast ports. Ports and Terminals: Enhance coal export port and terminal capacity on the U.S. Atlantic, Gulf and Pacific coasts. Trade and International Relations: Eliminate policy and technology barriers to the deployment of advanced coal facilities in international markets. Additionally, capitalize on trade opportunities, assessing policies and approaches that inhibit or promote U.S. trade and U.S. coal exports. Economic Development in International Markets: Support efforts to advance economic growth in international markets and the global development of advanced coal technologies and promote the elimination of regulatory and institutional barriers to the deployment of coal-based facilities worldwide. The report details actionable items to achieve core recommendations. "Advancing U.S. Coal Exports" was co-chaired by Justin Burk, Commercial Director for Peabody; and David Lawson, Vice President for Coal Marketing at Norfolk Southern Corporation. Secretary Perry asked the NCC to examine market, policy and infrastructure challenges and opportunities to advance U.S. coal resources in international power and industrial markets. NCC Chief Executive Officer Janet Gellici noted that the NCC also approved another report today entitled "Power Reset: Optimizing the Existing U.S. Coal Fleet to Ensure a Reliable and Resilient Power Grid," which is among the more than 35 reports the Council has prepared for the U.S. Secretary of Energy since its inception. The NCC was chartered in 1984 under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) to advise, inform and make recommendations to the U.S. Secretary of Energy on matters related to coal and the coal industry. Council members are appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Energy and serve in a voluntary capacity. A list of Council members is available on the NCC website at www.nationalcoalcouncil.org. MEDIA NOTE : The "Advancing U.S. Coal Exports" report was approved by the NCC membership on October 1, 2018 and will be finalized with supplemental comments by Oct. 18, 2018. Draft copies of both NCC reports released today may be accessed at http://www.nationalcoalcouncil.org/page-NCC-Studies.html. Please contact the NCC office for questions pertaining to citing information from the draft report that is posted. SOURCE National Coal Council Related Links http://www.nationalcoalcouncil.org WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, in celebration of October as National Co-op month, the National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA) announces several events and activities occurring throughout the month. These events highlight the important economic role cooperative businesses play locally, nationally and internationally, in creating a more inclusive, sustainable and stable economy. "National Co-op Month is a great opportunity to celebrate the impact co-ops have in our daily life," said Doug O'Brien, president and CEO of NCBA CLUSA. "From farming to financial services, cooperative businesses transform the communities they're in and the workers they employ. Throughout the month, I look forward to celebrating the many ways co-ops contribute to economic growth and educating the public about ways they can engage with co-ops, both locally and globally." NCBA CLUSA is sponsoring or supporting the following events this month: 2018 Co-op IMPACT Conference - From October 3-5 , this pivotal event will bring together a broad spectrum of cooperative sectors to build on and amplify the economic impact co-ops have in the U.S. and worldwide. Participants will have the opportunity to collaborate and engage with co-op members, supporters, policymakers and other stakeholders. Key guests include Sen. Todd Young (R-IN) and Bette Brand , Administrator of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Business-Cooperative Service. From , this pivotal event will bring together a broad spectrum of cooperative sectors to build on and amplify the economic impact co-ops have in the U.S. and worldwide. Participants will have the opportunity to collaborate and engage with co-op members, supporters, policymakers and other stakeholders. Key guests include Sen. (R-IN) and , Administrator of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Business-Cooperative Service. National Co-op Festival - The festival will take place Saturday-Sunday, October 6-7 , on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This free, family-friendly event will showcase how cooperatives are strengthening communities and providing a real alternative to the traditional business model. Featuring co-ops such as Cabot Creamery, REI, the National Rural Electric Cooperatives Association, Credit Union National Association, Flooring America, Carpet One, Riceland and Organic Valley, this festival will highlight the contributions of American cooperatives, which not only vary in size from local community businesses to large household name brands, but are also job creators and economic stabilizers. The event will include live music, giveaways, food samples and games. - The festival will take place Saturday-Sunday, , on the National Mall in This free, family-friendly event will showcase how cooperatives are strengthening communities and providing a real alternative to the traditional business model. Featuring co-ops such as Cabot Creamery, REI, the National Rural Electric Cooperatives Association, Credit Union National Association, Flooring America, Carpet One, Riceland and Organic Valley, this festival will highlight the contributions of American cooperatives, which not only vary in size from local community businesses to large household name brands, but are also job creators and economic stabilizers. The event will include live music, giveaways, food samples and games. The Co-op 5K Race - On Saturday, October 6 , the Cooperative Development Foundation will host its annual Co-op 5K at Hains Point in East Potomac Park, in Washington, DC . This family fun race/walk is a great way for runners, walkers and their four-legged companions to kick off the Co-op Festival weekend. This fun event will feature prizes for the whole family, from REI Co-op Backpacks, to Co-op Swag baskets. Learn more and register via www.cdf.coop/ 5k /. For more information about the festival, please visit www.coopfestival.coop. For more information about NCBA CLUSA and its initiatives, please visit www.ncba.coop About NCBA CLUSA The National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA) is the trade association for cooperative businesses in the United States and an international development organization. NCBA CLUSA provides cross-sector advocacy, education and technical assistance that helps cooperative businesses thrive. For over 100 years, NCBA CLUSA has sought to advance, promote and defend cooperative enterprises, highlighting the impact that cooperatives have in bettering the lives of individuals, families and communities. Since 1953, NCBA CLUSA has worked in more than 85 countries in the areas of cooperative development, food security and nutrition, agricultural development, community-based health, natural resources management, and empowerment of smallholder farmers, women and youth. NCBA CLUSA currently implements projects in Africa, Latin America and Asia. SOURCE National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International Related Links https://www.ncba.coop NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Swedish plus-size clothing brand Ellos celebrates the brand's heritage and culture by launching "National Lagom Day" in the U.S. Lagom, the Swedish word meaning "just the right amount," finds harmony in bypassing perfection and achieving comfort through balance. Fully embracing Lagom, Ellos launches this holiday to celebrate what it means to have the right amount of balance in your everyday life. "Life is about finding your happy medium. The message of 'lagom' is to discover peace in the simple thingsa mantra that we have adopted at Ellos," Anne Stephenson, Senior Vice President of Ellos, said. "In our modern efforts to beat deadlines and maximize schedules, we often forget to remain centered. The Ellos woman lives a full life, so we created this holiday as a reminder to always keep peace and balance at the forefront of our demanding lives." Ellos clothing mimics the principles of lagom; balancing cozy sweaters with leather jackets that feature just the right amount of detail. Embodying Scandinavian cultural values, the collection is the perfect fusion of American flair merged with Ellos's strong Swedish design roots. Ellos invites you to join the celebration of this holiday and to commemorate the day by finding balance and harmony that adapts to your lifestyle. With National Lagom Day, Ellos challenges you to make an effort to truly live the lagom lifestyle by forgetting about all the excess that life brings and finding peace in all things. Customers are invited to share their personal lagom style using #NationalLagomDay on social media, and by tagging @ellos_usa. ABOUT ELLOS: Founded in Sweden, in 1947, Ellos is Scandinavia's leading online department storegeared towards the modern, multifaceted woman. In celebration of every woman, Ellos has tirelessly created timeless classics with an updated flair for the fashionable woman on the go. After solidifying its place in the Scandinavian fashion market Ellos brought its sensible yet savvy design aesthetic to the United States in 2016. Offering versatile separates, with a high-end appeal at practical pricing, Ellos has broken new ground in the plus-friendly fashion world. Continuing to remain an innovator in the fashion sphere, Ellos designs each piece with their client at the forefront; fusing fashion and functionality to adapt to today's woman. HL Group: Brandon Sansone, [email protected] Jarred Keller, [email protected] SOURCE Ellos According to a new survey conducted by RetailMeNot Rx Saver and Kelton Global, 87% of Americans have taken prescription drugs at some point in their lives, and 57% of people are currently taking them. While half of consumers currently taking prescription medications are looking for cheaper options, 67% of those surveyed didn't realize a website or app could help them save money on their medication. For those with health insurance, Rx Saver is useful because it helps consumers comparison shop for the best price. Often times, it can be more economical to use Rx Saver coupons rather than going through insurance. "Many consumers aren't aware that prescription costs may vary at each pharmacy. We see a great opportunity to not only help people save on prescription costs but to provide additional education within the space," said Marissa Tarleton, chief marketing officer, RetailMeNot, Inc. "By adding RetailMeNot Rx Saver to our portfolio, we are taking another step toward RetailMeNot becoming the ultimate savings destination for all of life's essentials, including prescription medications." When it comes to the number of Americans taking prescription drugs and the costs adding up, the survey helped unearth additional findings: The average consumer spends $644 each year on prescription medication each year on prescription medication Among those who are currently taking medications, the average yearly spend for those drugs nearly doubles to $1,124 annually annually Costs are a major driver in prescriptions not being filled. Over 4 in 5 (82%) Americans say something has caused them to not fill a prescription, with 61% claiming it was because it was too expensive 50% of Americans are looking for discounts or cheaper options, including asking their doctor to switch them to a less expensive medication (32%) or applying for coupons or assistance (20%) The savings found on prescription drugs with RetailMeNot Rx Saver is another way RetailMeNot fulfills its mission to be the leading savings destination for all consumers' needs. The inclusion of pharmaceutical savings complements the company's other verticals in retail, travel and food and grocery, with savings available via digital coupons, Cash Back Offers, discount gift cards and the Genie browser extension. For more information or to start your prescription medication savings search, visit https://rxsaver.retailmenot.com/. About RetailMeNot, Inc. RetailMeNot, Inc. (https://www.retailmenot.com/corp/) is a leading savings destination connecting consumers with retailers, restaurants and brands, both online and in-store. The company enables consumers across the globe to find hundreds of thousands of offers to save money while they shop or dine out. RetailMeNot, Inc. estimates that $4.8 billion in retailer sales were attributable to consumer transactions from paid digital offers in its marketplace in 2017, more than $560 million of which were attributable to its in-store solution. The RetailMeNot, Inc. portfolio of websites and mobile applications includes RetailMeNot.com in the United States; RetailMeNot.ca in Canada; VoucherCodes.co.uk in the United Kingdom; ma-reduc.com and Poulpeo.com in France; and GiftCardZen.com and Deals2Buy.com in North America. As wholly owned subsidiaries of Harland Clarke Holdings, RetailMeNot and Valassis, a leader in intelligent media delivery, are partnering to connect retailers and consumers through meaningful digital, mobile and print promotions both online and in store. Media Contacts: Kristin Breen Alison Brod Marketing & Communications 212-230-1800 [email protected] About the RxSaver Survey The RetailMeNot RxSaver Survey was conducted between August 13, 2018, and August 15, 2018, among 1,004 nationally representative Americans ages 18 and over, using an email invitation and an online survey. Quotas are set to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the entire U.S. population ages 18 and over. Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. The magnitude of the variation is measurable and is affected by the number of interviews and the level of the percentages expressing the results. In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 3.1 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample. The margin of error of any subgroups will be slightly higher. About Kelton Global Kelton Global is a leading global insights and strategy consultancy serving as a partner to more than 100 of the Fortune 500 and thousands of smaller companies and organizations. Utilizing a wide range of customized, innovative research techniques and staff expertise in the marketing, branding, PR, media, and business strategy; Kelton helps drive our clients' business forward. For more information about Kelton Global, please call 1.888.8.Kelton or visit www.keltonglobal.com. SOURCE RetailMeNot Related Links http://www.retailmenot.com CHICAGO, October 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the new market research report "Rubber Process Oil Market by Type (Naphthenic, Paraffinic, Treated Distillate Aromatic Extract, DAE, MES, RAE and TRAE), and Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South America) - Global Forecast to 2023", published by MarketsandMarkets, the Rubber Process Oil Market is projected to grow from USD 1.91 billion in 2018 to USD 2.33 billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 4.1%, from 2018 to 2023. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg ) Don't miss out on business opportunities in Rubber Process Oil Market. Speak to Our Analyst and gain crucial industry insights that will help your business grow : https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/speaktoanalyst.asp?id=99023855 Rapid growth in the sales of automobiles is expected to boost the consumption of rubber process oils in the tire and rubber market. Stringent environmental regulations set by various regulatory bodies, for instance, the European Chemical Agency, are also contributing to the growth of this market. The naphthenic segment type is estimated to account for the largest share of the Rubber Process Oil Market in 2018. The naphthenic segment is estimated to account for the largest share of the Rubber Process Oil Market in 2018. Naphthenic process oil is a light-colored and non-staining compound, which has high thermal stability and excellent compatibility with synthetic elastomers. The naphthenic rubber process oil is being increasingly consumed as the preferred oil in the North American and European regions mainly due to its low PCA content. Browse in-depth TOC on "Rubber Process Oil Market" 91 - Tables 37 - Figures 135 - Pages View detailed Table of Content here: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/rubber-process-oil-market-99023855.html The TDAE segment type is projected to be the fastest-growing type in the global Rubber Process Oil Market. TDAE is a non-carcinogenic rubber process oil and, is widely used as a substitute of DAE. It is the fastest-growing segment in the global Rubber Process Oil Market. The demand for TDAE is expected to increase during the forecast period due to its environmentally-friendly - friendly nature. The Asia Pacific region is expected to be the largest market of rubber process oil in 2018. The Asia Pacific region is estimated to account for the largest share of the Rubber Process Oil Market in 2018. The growth of the Asia Pacific Rubber Process Oil Market can be attributed to increase in the sales of automobiles in the region that is expected to boost the consumption of rubber process oils in the tire and rubber industries of the region. Request for Free Sample Report @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsample.asp?id=99023855 Some of the leading players operating in the Rubber Process Oil Market include Royal Dutch Shell plc (Netherlands), Chevron Corporation (US), Petronas Lubricants Belgium NV (Belgium), Nynas AB (Sweden), ORGKHIM Biochemical Holding (Russia), Repsol S.A. (Spain), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (India). Browse Adjacent Markets @ Specialty Chemicals Market Research Reports & Consulting About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets provides quantified B2B research on 30,000 high growth niche opportunities/threats which will impact 70% to 80% of worldwide companies' revenues. Currently servicing 7500 customers worldwide including 80% of global Fortune 1000 companies as clients. Almost 75,000 top officers across eight industries worldwide approach MarketsandMarkets for their painpoints around revenues decisions. Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model - GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve. MarketsandMarkets's flagship competitive intelligence and market research platform, "Knowledge Store" connects over 200,000 markets and entire value chains for deeper understanding of the unmet insights along with market sizing and forecasts of niche markets. Contact: Mr. Shelly Singh MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: [email protected] Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/rubber-process-oil-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com SOURCE MarketsandMarkets HERNDON, Va., Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- SAP National Security Services, Inc. (SAP NS2), a U.S. based independent subsidiary of SAP which provides enterprise solutions to U.S. national security and critical infrastructure organizations, today announced their 7th annual Solutions Summit will be held in Tysons Corner, Virginia on Tuesday, October 30th, with keynote speakers and experts from government, the tech industry and national security. SAP NS2's Summit is an opportunity for national security leaders and industry partners to engage and lead the dialogue on critical issues facing the U.S. national security community. The theme for this year's event is "Era of Awareness," and will explore the effects of data weaponization and the race for emerging tech in national security to stay a step ahead of the adversary. The Summit will host attendees from government, business, research, media, and nonprofits who will gain fresh insights from an all-star roster of speakers as well as exclusive opportunities to see SAP NS2's solutions in action, and to give back to U.S. veterans. SAP NS2 will deliver a valuable day of learning and networking to advance the mission and business performance of its customers. To register for the 2018 Solutions Summit, click here. About SAP NS2 SAP NS2provides innovative computing, analytics, and cloud solutions that accelerate the pace of data fusion, analysis and action. Our solutions help leaders better manage the business of the mission from the back office to the battlefield, delivering a critical offset over the adversary. As an independent subsidiary of SAP, we're backed by game changing technology, staffed by 100% U.S. persons on U.S. soil, dedicated to meeting the unique mission requirements of U.S. national security organizations. Learn more at www.SAPNS2.com. All Media Inquiries - Contact: Nicholas Koulermos [email protected] 646-843-1812 SOURCE SAP NS2 Related Links http://www.SAPNS2.com The Arctic is in Paul Nicklen's blood. Raised on Baffin Island, Nunavut, he grew up in one of the only non-Inuit families in a tiny Inuit settlement amid the ice fields, floes, and frigid seas of Northern Canada. At an age when most children are playing hide-and-seek, he was learning important lessons on survival; how to read the weather, find shelter in a frozen snowscape, or live off the land as his Inuit neighbors had done for centuries. Today, Nicklen is a naturalist and wildlife photographer uniquely qualified to portray the impact of climate change on the Polar Regions and their inhabitants, human and animal alike. Whether he is diving off the floe edge in the Canadian Arctic or sitting on a piece of glacial ice in Antarctica to scout for leopard seals, Paul Nicklen goes to great lengths and depths to secure his award-winning images of life in the polar regions. This National Geographic-featured photographer and conservationist never shies away from extreme and challenging conditions as he feels urgently compelled to connect a global audience to the species and ecosystems he cares so deeply about. One of the world's most acclaimed nature photographers, Nicklen focuses on marine wildlife and polar environments. For Nicklen, we must act now to save Earth's delicate ecosystems and the precious diversity of life. Combining some of his most extraordinary photographs with personal experiences learning and inspirationalthis stunning Paul Nicklen photo compendium is both a remarkable collection of nature photography and a passionate rallying cry to stand up, have a voice, and enact positive change for our planet. TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Thomson Reuters (TSX /NYSE: TRI) today announced early tender results for its previously announced cash tender offer (the "Tender Offer") to purchase up to an aggregate principal amount of US$650 million (the "Maximum Amount") of debt securities listed in the table below (collectively, the "Notes"). As more than the Maximum Amount of Notes was validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) at or before the Early Tender Deadline (as defined below), Thomson Reuters expects to accept for purchase approximately US$650 million principal amount of Notes. The Tender Offer is being made pursuant to, and subject to the terms and conditions in an offer to purchase, dated September 19, 2018 (the "Offer to Purchase"), which sets forth a description of the terms of the Tender Offer. According to information received from D.F. King & Co., Inc., the Information and Tender Agent for the Tender Offer, the principal amount of each series of Notes that were validly tendered and not validly withdrawn in the Tender Offer as of 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on October 2, 2018 (the "Early Tender Deadline") for each Acceptance Priority Level being repurchased is set forth in the table below. Title of Security CUSIP Number Acceptance Priority Level Aggregate Principal Amount Outstanding Prior to the Tender Offer Aggregate Principal Amount Tendered as of the Early Tender Deadline Percent of Amount Outstanding Tendered as of the Early Tender Deadline 4.50% Notes due May 2043 884903BM6 1 US$350,000,000 US$230,955,000 66.0% 3.95% Notes due Sept. 2021 884903BK0 2 US$350,000,000 US$211,106,000 60.3% 3.85% Notes due Sept. 2024 884903BT1 3 US$450,000,000 US$299,801,000 66.6% 3.35% Notes due May 2026 884903BV6 4 US$500,000,000 US$185,027,000 37.0% 4.30% Notes due Nov. 2023 884903BQ7 5 US$600,000,000 US$308,562,000 51.4% Holders whose Notes were validly tendered and not withdrawn at or before the Early Tender Deadline and are accepted for purchase will receive the consideration to be calculated at 11:00 a.m., New York City time, on October 3, 2018. The settlement for these Notes is expected to take place on October 5, 2018 (the "Initial Settlement Date"), subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions described in the Offer to Purchase under the heading "Terms of the Tender Offer - Conditions of the Tender Offer." The principal amount of each series of Notes that is purchased on the Initial Settlement Date will be determined in accordance with the acceptance priority levels and the proration procedures described in the Offer to Purchase. As more than the Maximum Amount of Notes was validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) at or before the Early Tender Deadline, Thomson Reuters will not accept for purchase any further tenders of Notes. Notes validly tendered pursuant to the Tender Offer and not accepted for purchase due to the acceptance priority levels or due to proration will be promptly returned to the tendering holders. Additional Information This news release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to tender for, or purchase, any notes or any other securities of Thomson Reuters. No offer, solicitation, purchase or sale will be made in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful. The Tender Offer is being made solely pursuant to terms and conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase. Mizuho Securities USA LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC are serving as the Lead Dealer Managers in connection with the Tender Offer. BMO Capital Markets Corp. and RBC Capital Markets, LLC are serving as the Co-Dealer Managers in connection with the Tender Offer. Questions regarding the Tender Offer may be directed to Mizuho Securities USA LLC at 1-866-271-7403 (toll free in North America) or 1-212-205-7736 (collect) or to Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC at 1-800-624-1808 (toll free in North America) or 1-212-761-1057 (collect). Requests for the Offer to Purchase or the documents incorporated by reference therein may be directed to D.F. King & Co., Inc., which is acting as Information and Tender Agent for the Tender Offer, at the following telephone numbers: banks and brokers, 1-212-269-5550; all others toll free in North America at 1-800-330-5897 or at the following email address: [email protected]. None of Thomson Reuters, the Dealer Managers, the Information and Tender Agent or the trustees for the Notes has authorized any person to make any representations in connection with the Tender Offer other than as set forth in the Offer to Purchase. Thomson Reuters Thomson Reuters (TSX/NYSE: TRI) is the world's leading provider of news and information-based tools to professionals. Our worldwide network of journalists and specialist editors keep customers up to speed on global developments, with a particular focus on legal, regulatory and tax changes. Thomson Reuters shares are listed on the Toronto and New York Stock Exchanges. For more information on Thomson Reuters, visit tr.com and for the latest world news, reuters.com. SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking, including the timing, size and other terms of the Tender Offer. These forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and reflect Thomson Reuters' current expectations. As a result, forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations, including other factors discussed in materials that Thomson Reuters from time to time files with, or furnishes to, the Canadian securities regulatory authorities and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. There is no assurance that the Tender Offer will be completed or that other events described in any forward-looking statement will materialize. Except as may be required by applicable law, Thomson Reuters disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. CONTACTS MEDIA David Crundwell Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs +1 416 649 9904 [email protected] INVESTORS Frank J. Golden Senior Vice President, Investor Relations +1 646 223 5288 [email protected] SOURCE Thomson Reuters Related Links http://reuters.com TAIPEI, Taiwan, Oct. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Do you know? The letters "ti" are pronounced as "s" in the Kiribati language. Kiribati has a total land area of 800 square kilometers scattered over a vast area of ocean about 3.5 million square kilometers; equivalent in size to the continental United States! Curator, we ART the world, Patrice Chou we ART the world poster The population of Nauru is the second least populous country in the world after the Holy See. It is also the smallest Island country in the world. However, in the years after independence in 1968, Nauru possessed the highest GDP per capita in the world due to its rich phosphate deposits. Two Nobel Prize winners come from the 617 km2 Saint Lucia, a sovereign island country in the eastern Caribbean Sea, making them the country with the highest number of Nobel Prize winners per capita. Each country on earth tells its own unique, sometimes hidden story. Can artists help introduce unfamiliar places through their medium? If, through the practice and approach of contemporary art, a group of artists produces a variety of artworks from paintings, sculptures, installations, videos, mixed media to interactive art, would that excite people and inspire them to learn more about an unfamiliar country? "We ART The World", a contemporary art project seeks to answer these questions. 20 emerging artists took the challenge and joined the collaboration. The rule is simple, one artist for one country. Each artist is to create one new piece of artwork based on his or her research of the specifically assigned country. Anything can trigger creativity. Through observing the country's geographic location, environmental ecology, culture or lifestyle, and by incorporating their personal interpretations and creative style, unique artwork unfolds. "We learn something new everyday. It's interesting and intriguing to see how artists use these elements and turn them into diverse artworks," says curator, Patrice Chou. Among the eye-catching artworks, viewers are able to find fascinating facts on different countries. For instance, the Great Blue Hole is a giant marine sinkhole off the coast of Belize. The number of local languages listed for Solomon Islands is 74, of which 70 are living languages and 4 are extinct. One of Tuvalu's largest sources of income is from the lease of its highly marketable internet domain of '.tv'. Vodou is recognized as an official religion in Haiti. The full moon in Palau is traditionally considered the best time for fishing, planting, and other activities. The flag of Paraguay differs on its obverse and reverse sides. The center of the white stripe on the front of the flag bears a national coat of arms. The reverse side is decorated with an emblem of the Ministry of Finance. Countries on the exhibition list include Kiribati, Nauru, Solomon Islands, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Republic of Palau, Tuvalu, Eswatini, Holy See, Belize, Haiti, Nicaragua, the Republic of Guatemala, the Republic of Honduras, the Republic of Paraguay, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Saint Lucia. "We ART the world" sets an ambitious goal: to include all counties worldwide in this project. They welcome all ideas and cooperation. "That art transits all the boundaries is what we believe in the group exhibition, and we look forward to having you to be part of it," Chou adds. "It's lovely to see the world differently and beautifully through art." For more information: www.facebook.com/events/278573649535939/ Contact: Patrice Chou, [email protected] We ART The WorldExhibition Information Date2018.10.5 - 2018.10.19 Time10:00 - 18:00 (closed on weekends and holidays) VenueThe Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (IDIA) AddressNo.280, Sec. 1, Dunhua S. Rd., Da'an Dist., Taipei City 106, Taiwan Curator: Patrice CHOU Organizer: Formosa Art Project, Verdancy ArtistsLegacy Lab International, WANG Ming-Ren, Acer LU, WU Tsung-Yen, LIN Hui-Heng, MA Le-Yuan, CHANG Chin-Jung, CHEN Pei-Yin, CHEN Ke-Wei, CHEN Yan-Ru, HUANG Yi-Chung, HUANG Yu Chia, HUANG Yu Pin, HUANG Lin-Yung, Liao Yu-An, KUO Pei-Chi, LIU Wei-Tsen, LU Wei-Chung, Sweet & Sour With Fish Media contact: George Hu [email protected] 886-27356006 ext 162 SOURCE We ART The World BALTIMORE, Oct. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, one of the largest private foundations in the United States, today announces the retirement of its long-time executive and trustee, Donn Weinberg, from both of his roles at the Foundation. Weinberg, 64 years old, has served as a full-time executive and in-house counsel with the Foundation since March 1, 1993 and as a trustee of the Foundation since August 1, 2002. He also served as the Foundation's Chairman of the Board for three years, from 2010-2013. He specialized in local commercial real estate matters and in grant contracts during most of his tenure. Before joining the Foundation, he was in the private practice of law for 15 years in the Baltimore area, specializing in medical malpractice litigation. "I have had a wonderful and fulfilling career for almost 26 years at the Weinberg Foundation, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have served the organization, which helps the nonprofit sector assist low-income and vulnerable individuals and families. But, as my beloved wife has been suffering from declining health for four years, I feel it is time to focus my full-time attention exclusively on her needs, on the needs of my family, and on my various hobbies and other interests," explains Weinberg. "I look forward to this next chapter in my life," he continued. During his tenure at the Weinberg Foundation, Weinberg was best known for his introduction of and advocacy for the field of workforce developmentfunding the training, placement, and ongoing support of lower-income individuals for gainful employment, as the most practical and sustainable way to eliminate or reduce their economic disadvantage. Weinberg was the Foundation's lead person in supporting the initiation and continuation in Israel of the "TEVET" Initiative (an initiative of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee), which focuses on developing employment opportunities for the most disadvantaged Jewish and non-Jewish populations there. He also was instrumental in establishing the first (and now increasingly replicated) elder abuse prevention and treatment center in the United Statesthe Weinberg Elder Abuse Center at the Hebrew Home for the Aged in Riverdale, New York. While at the Foundation, Donn Weinberg also served on other nonprofit boards. He served on the board of The Philanthropy Roundtable from 2009-2015 and again from 2016 through his current retirement, also serving as its Chairman and Treasurer beginning in 2016. Weinberg was founding Chairman of RespectAbility, which focuses on employment for people with disabilities and served on its board through 2016. Earlier, he served on the board of the Jewish Funders Network. "I will always look fondly on my time at the Weinberg Foundation, and I wish my friends and colleagues there the best in moving forward with the Foundation's important mission," concluded Weinberg. Rachel Garbow Monroe, President and CEO of the Weinberg Foundation, stated, "On behalf of everyone at the Foundation, I would like to acknowledge and thank Donn Weinberg for his significant contributions to the Weinberg Foundation over his more than two decades of service as both an employee and trustee. We all wish Donn a long, healthy, and happy retirement and will miss him. The Foundation will now begin the process of identifying Donn Weinberg's successor." Effective October 2, 2018, the Weinberg Foundation's trustees include Robert T. Kelly, Jr., Board Chair; Ambassador Fay Hartog-Levin (Ret.); Paula B. Pretlow; and Alvin Awaya. As previously announced, on November 30, 2018, Alvin Awaya will retire from the Foundation and will be succeeded by Gordon Berlin on December 1, 2018. Rachel Garbow Monroe continues to serve as President and CEO. About The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, one of the largest private charitable foundations in the United States, provides approximately $100 million in annual grants to nonprofits that provide direct services to low-income and vulnerable individuals and families, primarily in the United States and Israel. Grants are focused on meeting basic needs and enhancing an individual's ability to meet those needs with emphasis on older adults, the Jewish community, and the Foundation's priority communities of Maryland, Northeastern Pennsylvania, Hawaii, Chicago, New York City, San Francisco, rural communities in the United States, and the State of Israel. The trustees are Chair Robert T. Kelly, Jr., Alvin Awaya, Ambassador Fay Hartog-Levin (Ret.), and Paula B. Pretlow. Rachel Garbow Monroe serves as the Weinberg Foundation's President and Chief Executive Officer. For more information, please visit www.hjweinbergfoundation.org. SOURCE Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation Related Links http://www.hjweinbergfoundation.org Los Angeles, Oct 3 : Actor Ben Affleck, who is getting treated for his alcohol addiction in a rehabilitation centre, looked fit and in good spirits while heading for gym. The "Justice League" actor's outing comes one week after he completed the first 30 days of his third stint in the centre for his battle with alcoholism, usmagazine.com reported on Tuesday. The 46-year-old showed off his buff body in slim-fit vintage classic T-shirt with a pair of sunglasses. He also rocked a short new haircut while holding an ice coffee. A two-time Oscar winner, Affleck has checked into a rehabilitation centre in the past also as he sought help in 2001 and 2017 for his addiction. Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 2 : Supporters of various Hindu organisations on Tuesday took to the streets in various cities of Kerala to protest against the September 28 Supreme Court verdict that threw open the Sabarimala temple to women of all ages. The protest here was led by former Travancore Devasom Board (TDB) President and former Congress legislator Prayar Gopalakrishnan who said that he will oppose the verdict "come what may". He, along with Rahul Eshwar, a member of the Sabarimala temple 'tantric' family, and hundreds of protesters rallied in the city and even held up traffic for a while. The TDB manages the Sabarimala temple. At Kochi, protesters had a tiff with police when the latter objected to hampering the flow of road traffic. The largest protest was witnessed at Pandalam, where members of the erstwhile Pandalam royal family, along with a large number of men and women walked to the Veliye Koyikal Temple at Pandalam while singing hymns. The family plays an integral role in the temple affairs and has already expressed deep dissatisfaction over the court verdict. Protesters also rallied at Pamba town, which is situated on the foothills of the Sabarimala temple. "The court order is not acceptable as every religious place has its own traditions which cannot be overruled by a court of law as it affects the sentiments of devotees," said a protester. Similar protests were also witnessed in Palakkad. On September 28, the apex court had said that the ban on women from entering the Lord Ayyappa temple violated their fundamental rights and constitutional guarantee of equality. Until now, girls below the age of 10 and women over 50 were allowed to visit the hilltop shrine, located in the Western Ghats and about 130 km from Thiruvananthapuram. New Delhi, Oct 2 : Popular vocalist Kavita Krishnamurti, who has sung in multiple Indian languages over four decades, will soon make her debut as a composer. "I have composed bhajans. One day, I was sitting in a car and humming a tune. I was wondering what words to put since I don't write lyrics at all. Suddenly, the word of Meera bhajan fitted beautifully into it. "That inspired me to make more songs. My husband (violinist L. Subramaniam) said I should record them. We recorded 20 days ago. Mixing is yet to be done. I need to plan how to release it," Kavita told IANS in a telephonic interview. The "Hawa hawai" hitmaker feels "very nice" to have attempted "this as a composer". "It's something that I have not done before. It is a great feeling to have worked on an album as a composer," she said. She is also tied up with Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival, which started in 1992 in the memory of L. Subramaniam's father and guru V. Lakshminarayana. "Whatever he (her husband) feels he is today is because of his father who taught him the modern violin technique, to think... how to bring in more better techniques in violin so that the Indian violin has an international standing and gets accepted all over the world. "They have worked towards that. So he is always thanking his father for initiating him into violin and being his guru. I share that joy because it's done with passion more than anything else." Since its inception, the festival has presented some of the greatest artistes like Yehudi Menuhin, M.S. Subbulakshmi, Bismillah Khan, Stanley Clarke and George Duke. "Every year, we think how it can be better than before and what kind of artistes we can bring in so that people would enjoy it. It's quite a difficult task, but somehow we have been able to do it for all these years," said Kavita. "We have artistes from all over the world. Sometimes, we have very exotic instruments like a kora or koto from Japan." This year, the Latvian symphony orchestra will be part of the fest. "I am also doing a piece called the 'Bharat Symphony'. It's got four movements - the first one is the Vedic movement, second is the Mughal, then the third is the British and fourth is post-independence," she shared. "My husband will do a piece with orchestra, called 'Turbulence Concerto'. Then our granddaughter Mahati will pay a short tribute to Mahatma Gandhi." The first concert took place in Bengaluru on September 29. It was followed by Colombo and will conclude in Delhi on October 5. Asked about the Delhi audience, she said: "It's not very easy to please them sometimes. They have already heard a lot. So, we have to be on our toes. So far, our festival has been received very well. People have enjoyed it. "Delhi is open to so many kinds of music. They are able to understand the nuances of western music, classical, Bollywood and fusion music," said Kavita. (Natalia Ningthoujam can be contacted at natalia.n@ians.in) New Delhi, Oct 2 : BKU leaders on Tuesday said that their meeting with Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh over farmers' demands was "satisfactory" and that seven of their nine demands were accepted, while the Centre was non-committal on loan waiver and higher MSP. The Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) is expected to take a decision on calling off its 10-day long protest after its Executive Committee meeting on Tuesday evening. BKU General Secretary Yudhvir Singh led a 15-member delegation to meet the Home Minister at his official residence here, which was attended by Union Minister of State for Agriculture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. Yudhvir Singh said their seven demands were accepted. "However, the government is silent on our demand for loan waiver, saying that the states had to take a decision at their level. Also, it said that fixation of MSP (Minimum Support Price) based on 'C2' input factor as per the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations will be done in future," Singh told IANS. The government said that it had taken one step forward by announcing MSP based on 'A2 +FL' formula, Singh added. Discussions were held to see how the demands can be met, said Shekhawat, who later proceeded to the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border to meet the protesting farmers who had clashed with police after they were denied entry to Delhi. Talking to the media here, the farmer leader said that the government had admitted to "flaws" that created problems for farmers while selling their produce in markets and availing benefits under farm-related schemes. He also condemned police lathicharge on protesting farmers on the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border. "It is undemocratic. It is unprecedented. The government should not have lathicharged the farmers. Everyone has the right to express their views," Yudhvir Singh said. The protest by thousands of farmers turned violent on the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border on Tuesday as they tried to break through barricades or run them over with tractors to enter the national capital, forcing police to use water cannons and tear gas to disperse them. Manila, Oct 2 : At least 300 million people in the Asia-Pacific region have no improved access to water, the Asia Development Bank (ADB) said on Tuesday. "About 300 million people in the Asia and Pacific region do not have improved access to water and 1.7 billion lack access to basic sanitation," ADB President Takehiko Nakao said at the Asia Water 2018 forum in Manila. According to ADB estimates, water demand in the Asia and Pacific region was poised to grow by more than half by 2050, leaving up to 3.4 billion people facing water insecurity, Xinhua news agency reported. Moreover, the ADB said disaster-related losses in Asia totalled $87 billion in 2016, of which about 25 per cent was connected to flooding. And over the past 20 years, Asia has incurred half of the estimated global economic cost of water-related disasters. "Innovations and new technologies provide the means to help ADB developing member countries advance their water management including river basin management, flood control and water pollution and service delivery such as water supply, sanitation, and irrigation," said the ADB President. More than 800 gathered on Tuesday at the ADB headquarters in Manila for the opening of the Asia Water Forum 2018, focusing on "information, innovation and technology". Participants included government officials, water and development professionals and representatives from the private sector, academia, civil society and the media. The ADB said this year's forum featured over four days of a series of panels, leadership discussions, technical sessions and workshops. Since its founding in 1966, the Manila-based bank said it has spent a total of $45.88 billion on water projects. ADB's active water sector operations amount to nearly $14 billion and this is growing -- another $14 billion in water sector investments was planned for future, it said. New Delhi, Oct 2 : As the nation celebrated Gandhi Jayanti, hundreds of farmers on Tuesday faced police baton in a clash at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border when they were prevented from entering the national capital even as the government agreed to consider seven of their 15 demands. The farmers, who were lathicharged and teargassed after water canons failed to subdue them earlier in the day, rejected the government assurances and vowed to continue the protest till they are allowed to go to Kisan Ghat, the memorial of former Prime Minister Charan Singh, and Rajghat, the memorial for Mahatma Gandhi. While both sides said there was agreement on some of the demands of the farmers, there was no clarity on the main issues: the loan waiver and higher MSP raised by the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU). A few thousand farmers were still camping at the border in Ghazipur on Tuesday night. Hours after the violence, representatives of the BKU which had planned to conclude its 10-day protest at the Kisan Ghat in Delhi met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and discussed 15 demands that included loan waiver and higher Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their produce. The government's assurances include review petition in the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to revoke the ban on 10-year-old diesel vehicles (tractors), bringing farm-related products under 5 per cent bracket of Goods and Services Tax (GST). Extension of MSP providing 50 per cent profit over the production cost to all notified Rabi crops, boosting procurement system were among the other assurances. Minister of State for Agriculture Gajendra Singh Sekhawat, who was present in the talks, told the media later that a consensus has been reached between the government and the protestors on many of the demands. How to go ahead on fulfilling these demands was also discussed, he said. "The government is silent on our demand for loan waiver. Also, it said that fixation of Minimum Support Price based on 'C2' input factor as per the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations will be done only in future," said BKU General Secretary Yudhvir Singh. Earlier in the day, continuing their 10-day march from Haridwar in Uttarakhand to the national capital, thousands of protesting farmers were prevented from entering Delhi. When they tried to forcibly move ahead by breaking police barricades, police used water canons and batons that left over a dozen agitators injured. Several rounds of tear gas were also fired. Prohibitory orders banning the assembly of five or more persons have been clamped in several areas near the border and will continue till October 8. Defending the crackdown, Deputy Commissioner of Police Pankaj Kumar Singh said permission to hold the march had been denied and the farmers' entry to Delhi was illegal. The protest led to a political slug-fest, with the opposition slamming the Modi government for the crackdown on the farmers and the BJP calling the agitation "politically motivated". Congress President Rahul Gandhi flayed the Centre for not accepting the loan waiver demand and said that farmers today "cannot even talk about their ordeal". "Farmers from all states, be it Maharashtra, Haryana or Uttar Pradesh, have been pleading with folded hands for a loan waiver. Modi, in the last four years, waived loans of 15-20 people to the tune of Rs 320,000 crore but he is not bothered about farmers," Gandhi said in Wardha in Maharashtra. The Congress passed a resolution at Wardha condemning the "arrogant and barbaric Modi government". "Reeling under debt, the poor farmers had come to remind Modi of his promise of providing farmers a profit of 50 per cent or more over and above the cost of production and seek loan waivers. "Skyrocketing prices of diesel and fertilisers have already broken the farmers' back and to compound their misery, the Modi government has imposed 5-18 per cent Goods and Services Tax on agricultural goods," the party said. Expressing his solidarity, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said: "Why are farmers not being allowed to enter Delhi? This is wrong." Samajwadi Party chief and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav blamed the Modi government for not fulfilling the promises made to farmers. "In the last five years, over 50,000 farmers have committed suicide, with most suicides occurring in BJP-ruled states," he said. Communist Party of India-Marxist General Secretary Sitaram Yechury blamed the Modi government for the "unprecedented agrarian crisis in the country". The Bharatiya Janata Party, on the other hand, said the farmers' protest was politically motivated. "There is a reason behind it. Because this is an election year... For so many people there are different motives. That is the only reason. Otherwise, farmers across the country are very satisfied and thankful to the Modi government," Minister Shekhawat said. He said the Modi government had announced assured Minimum Support Price (MSP) with 50 per cent profit over the production cost but the farmers were not concerned about the formula used while fixing MSP. The farmers want revoking the ban on 10-year-old tractors in the National Capital Region, reduction in electricity tariff, implementation of the recommendations of the M.S. Swaminathan Commission on remunerative prices and payment of sugarcane arrears among others. No. 11 NC State Baseball Makes a Quick Turnaround to Host UNC Greensboro Tuesday No. 11 NC State baseball (2-0) is set to make a quick turnaround Tuesday when it hosts in-state opponent UNCG (2-1) at Doak Field at Dail Park for its first midweek contest of the season. First pitch is set for 3 p.m., and the game will be broadcast on the ACC Network Extra. New Delhi, Oct 2 : The Congress on Tuesday dubbed the Modi government "arrogant and barbaric" over the police crackdown on protesting farmers on the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border even as party President Rahul Gandhi flayed it for not accepting their loan waiver demand. In a series of tweets, Gandhi criticised the government for what he called the brutal beating of peaceful farmers and said that "now, farmers cannot even come to the country's capital and talk about their ordeal". Later, addressing a rally in Maharashtra's Wardha, the Congress President accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of waiving corporate loans of over Rs 3 lakh crore while remaining insensitive to the farmers' pleas. "Farmers from all states, be it Maharashtra, Haryana or Uttar Pradesh, have been pleading with folded hands for loan waiver. Modi, in the last four years, waived off loans of 15-20 people to the tune of Rs 3,20,000 crore but he cannot look into the plight of the farmers," said Gandhi. The Congress, at its Working Committee meeting in Wardha, also adopted a resolution strongly condemning the police crackdown on the protesting farmers who had started their march in support of their demands from Haridwar in Uttar Pradesh on September 23 to reach Delhi. "When thousands of farmers marched for hundreds of kilometres on their demands to reach Modi government's gates on Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary, an arrogant and barbaric government, instead of listening to their plight and cries, rained batons on them," the party said in the resolution. "Reeling under debt, the poor farmers had come to remind Modi of his promise of providing farmers a profit of 50 per cent or more over and above the cost of production and seek loan waivers. "Skyrocketing prices of diesel and fertilisers have already broken the farmers' back and to compound their misery, the Modi government has imposed 5 per cent to 18 per cent Goods and Services Tax on agricultural goods. "The Congress strongly condemns the baton charge and violent crackdown on the farmers," the party said while asserting its commitment towards working for welfare of farmers. Led by the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), thousands of farmers participated in the Kisan Kranti Padyatra from Tikait Ghat in Haridwar to the Kisan Ghat in Delhi regarding their charter of 15 demands, including loan waiver. Beijing, Oct 3 : Chinese actress Fan Bingbing, who starred in the X-Men and Iron Man film franchises, has been fined hundreds of millions of yuan for tax evasion and other offences, authorities said on Wednesday. The Chinese authorities have ordered Bingbing and the companies she controls to pay around $129 million in taxes, fines and penalties, the BBC reported. It comes nearly three months after the star disappeared from the public eye. The actress, who is one of the China's highest paid actors, would escape criminal charges if the fines were paid on time, Xinhua news agency reported. The 37-year-old actress had been linked to a government probe into celebrity earnings reported in their contracts. Some film stars were alleged to have used so-called "yin-yang contracts" - a practice where one contract sets out an actor's real earnings, and another details a lower figure, with the latter submitted to the tax authorities, the BBC said. Bingbing's agent has been detained by the police. Her studio had previously said the star never signed "yin-yang" contracts. She sparked concern among her millions of fans when she disappeared from public view in June. Social media was awash with speculation over her whereabouts and whether she had been detained. New Delhi, Oct 2 : Multilateralism has not been under so much fire as it is today and India will be the essential component if the world has to become multipolar, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said on Tuesday. He called for a global response to climate change and terrorism, which he said were the two biggest challenges the world was facing. A multilateral approach was needed to meet challenges and threats which were becoming more and more global in nature, Guterres said while delivering a lecture on "Global Challenges, Global Solutions" here. "But the paradox is that never in recent times was multilateralism under so much fire and never, as in recent times, was a rule-based international community being put under fire," he said. He said the world ceased to be bipolar after the end of the Cold War and turned unipolar, but today's world "is a kind of a chaotic world". "The world has to be multipolar and India has a key role to play... No country is better placed for this than India," Guterres said. He added that India's assertiveness on the global platform was a key element. His remarks assume significance in the face of US President Donald Trump pulling out of the Paris Climate Agreement and withdrawal of international sanctions on Iran over its nuclear programme, and imposing new trade tariffs on countries like India and China. Regarding the challenge of climate change, Guterres said India had already been impacted through droughts and floods. He said if the targets of the Paris Climate Agreement, in which India played a key role, were not met, then the world would be in a catastrophic situation. Stressing on the necessity for solar and wind energy, Guterres said India, despite its problems, had to play a key role in the fight against climate change and to meet the UN's Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. India is targeting to generate 175 GW of electricity from renewable sources of energy by 2022, of which 100 GW will be from solar power. It has already achieved 20 GW installed solar power. Asked about reforms in the UN, Guterres said it cannot happen till there were no reforms in the UN Security Council (UNSC), adding it was for the five permanent members to do so. India, Japan, Germany and Brazil are seeking permanent membership in an expanded UNSC to reflect the face of today's world. Guterres is on a visit to India to take part in a series of events on climate change and Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary celebrations. New Delhi, Oct 2 : A massive protest march by farmers from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi with a charter of 15 demands including loan waiver and fair prices for crops turned violent at the border on Tuesday, with police using water cannons and tear gas to disperse them. Led by the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), thousands of farmers on their way to Kisan Ghat in the national capital were stopped at the Delhi border by the police. The farmers then tried to forcibly break barricades and defy prohibitory orders. Prohibitory orders banning the assembly of five or more persons have been clamped in several areas near the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border and will continue till October 8. Defending the crackdown, which left many farmers injured, Deputy Commissioner of Police Pankaj Kumar Singh said permission to hold the march had been denied and the farmers' entry to Delhi was illegal. The farmers' demands include complete loan waiver, revoking ban on 10 year old tractors in the National Capital Region, reduction in electricity tariff, implementation of the recommendations of the M.S. Swaminathan Commission on remunerative prices and payment of sugarcane arrears among others. The protesters started their 10-day march from Haridwar in Uttarakhand led by the BKU and on Tuesday they reached the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border. There was heavy deployment of security forces at the border. The police crackdown was denounced by opposition parties. "The farmers of the country are oppressed, they are victims, and this government, instead of listening to their plight, is raining 'lathis' on them and unleashing water canons. We strongly condemn the violent crackdown. You may not be sensitive to the plight of the farmers and workers but in 2019 they will use their right to uproot you from power," said Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Delhi Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal expressed solidarity with the farmers. "Farmers should be allowed to enter Delhi. Why are they not being allowed to enter Delhi? This is wrong. We are with the farmers," he said. Samajwadi Party chief and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav blamed the Modi government for not fulfilling the promises made to farmers. "In the last five years, over 50,000 farmers have committed suicide, with most suicides occurring in BJP-ruled states. The farmers have all the right to protest. We strongly support their movement," said Yadav. Communist Party of India-Marxist General Secretary Sitaram Yechury blamed the Modi government for the "unprecedented agrarian crisis in the country". "The Modi government is anti-farmer. Instead of providing relief to them, they are aggravating the crisis further, forcing farmers to distress suicides. We haven't seen such agrarian distress in India since independence," said Yechury. Meanwhile, several farmers held talks with Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh at his residence in Delhi. Minister of State for Agriculture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat was also present. Leh (Jammu And Kashmir), Oct 2 : As the Leh region prepares for the harsh winter, the armed forces have taken extra measures to check infiltration by adopting high-tech surveillance equipment along the border. Developed by Cron Systems, a defence-oriented Delhi based IoT start-up in partnership with California-based technology firm Quanergy Systems, three marquee technology solutions introduced for India's growing border security and surveillance needs were launched here recently. "Such technologies are always an extra helping hand, especially considering the extreme weather condition the (Leh and Kargil) region faces during winter. Often our equipment fail to function properly due to severe snowfall. Having another level of technology is always a boon," said an army officer who did not wished to be named. Kavach Z, one of the systems, provides 360 degree situational awareness to the defending forces by detecting object approaching from as far as 200 meters away. It has the ability to detect, track and classify objects as threats. According to the Cron sources, the company has also signed an MoU for a strategic collaboration to upgrade detection features of the Kavach Z series for Indian Army. Another product, Cron Geosight, is an advanced 3D scanner for surveillance and mapping. Its robust design makes it capable of providing reliable results even in extreme environmental conditions. "Most of the terrain and places where armed forces are deployed or where their vehicles navigate suffer from zero visibility and lack of mapping. The device helps to classify a threat and a non-threat on the mapping screen by differentiating between a person and animal by using colour coding," Tushar Chhabra, co-founder and CEO of Cron Systems, told IANS. "Our technology comes with a guarantee that it will smoothly function even when the temperature is around minus 40 degree Celsius," he added. Chhabra also said the company as taken the initiative to open a technology centre in Leh to provide technical support and maintenance for the crucial equipment of the forces. "When the army's equipment fails, the forces have to wait for maintenance to bemade available because of the inaccessibility of a service station. Our centre will ensure that service is provided without delay," Chhabra stated. Washington, Oct 3 : US President Donald Trump has ridiculed the testimony of Christine Ford, the woman who made sexual assault charges against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. At a rally in Mississippi on Tuesday, Trump cast doubts on the version of events presented by Ford under oath during testimony in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee last week, in which she described in detail the alleged sexual assault committed by Kavanaugh, CNN reported. "How did you get home? 'I don't remember'. How'd you get there? 'I don't remember'. Where is the place? 'I don't remember'. How many years ago was it?' I don't know'," Trump said, apparently mocking Ford's responses. "'What neighbourhood was it in? 'I don't know', Where's the house? 'I don't know'. Upstairs, downstairs, where I was. I don't know. But I had one beer. That's the only thing I remember," he added. The President said Ford's testimony had "shattered" Kavanaugh and his family and added that those who had supported the allegations -- an apparent reference to the Democrats -- were "evil". However, earlier Trump called Ford a "credible" and "compelling" witness. In her testimony, Ford had said that she was "100 per cent sure" that Kavanaugh had attempted to rape her in 1982 when they were teenagers. The top court nominee denies this. The allegations led to the FBI opening a probe against Kavanaugh ahead of the Senate vote to confirm or reject his nomination to the Supreme Court. According to Ford's lawyers, the Federal Bureau of Investigation didn't speak to her yet and said it was "inconceivable" that the agency may conduct a thorough investigation without interviewing her. The investigation is due to be completed by Friday. In addition to Ford, at least two other women have levelled sexual abuse charges against Kavanaugh, while some of his acquaintances have also raised doubts about the veracity of some of his sworn statements, particularly in relation to his drinking habits during his youth. Canberra, Oct 3 : Australia's Treasurers on Wednesday agreed to exempt women's sanitary products from General Sales Tax (GST) following years of campaigning by female groups. Treasurers from Australia's states and territories unanimously agreed to support the government's proposal to remove the current 10 per cent tax on the products, ending an 18-year campaign to get the exemption. The exact products which will be exempted from tax were not yet finalised but it was expected to cost the states 30 million Australian dollars each in tax revenue. The exemption is expected to come into effect from January. "We're really delighted that everyone's come on board to scrap what is an unfair tax," Minister for Women Kelly O'Dwyer told Sky News Australia. "Millions of women right across the nation will be very thankful for it." Widely known as the "tampon tax", the levy on sanitary products has drawn protests since the GST was introduced in 2000. The government that time refused to exempt them as a health product, saying the products did not prevent illness. The Wednesday's move was welcomed by women groups and campaigners across the country. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said scrapping the tax was "a bit of common sense", Xinhua news agency reported. "It had always been our view that we wanted to see it changed," he told Macquarie Media radio. Morrison first promised to remove the tax during his time as Treasurer, describing it as an "anomaly" that never should have existed in the first place. Josh Frydenberg, who succeeded Morrison as Treasurer, said that his colleagues from the states and territories agreeing to the plan was "good news for women across Australia" that was "long overdue". Stockholm, Oct 3 : Frances Arnold of California Institute of Technology in the US on Wednesday became only the fifth woman in history to win the Nobel Prize in Chemistry when the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced the award that recognised two other scientists for their works on proteins. While Arnold has won one half of the 9 million Swedish krona (Rs 7.3 crore) award, the other half would be shared by George Smith of University of Missouri in the US and Gregory Winter of the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Britain. Before Arnold, only four women -- Ada Yonath in 2009, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin in 1964, Irene Joliot-Curie in 1935 and Marie Curie in 1911 -- won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. "This year's Nobel Laureates in Chemistry have been inspired by the power of evolution and used the same principles -- genetic change and selection -- to develop proteins that solve mankind's chemical problems," the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said in a statement. In 1993, Arnold conducted the first directed evolution of enzymes, which are proteins that catalyse chemical reactions. Since then, she has refined the methods that are now routinely used to develop new catalysts. The uses of Arnold's enzymes include more environmentally friendly manufacturing of chemical substances, such as pharmaceuticals, and the production of renewable fuels for a greener transport sector. The other half of this year's Nobel Prize in Chemistry would be shared by Smith and Winter. In 1985, Smith developed an elegant method known as phage display, where a bacteriophage -- a virus that infects bacteria -- can be used to evolve new proteins. Winter used phage display for the directed evolution of antibodies, with the aim of producing new pharmaceuticals. The first one based on this method, adalimumab, was approved in 2002 and is used for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel diseases. Since then, phage display has produced anti-bodies that can neutralise toxins, counteract autoimmune diseases and cure metastatic cancer. "The 2018 Nobel Laureates in Chemistry have taken control of evolution and used it for purposes that bring the greatest benefit to humankind," the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said. Chandigarh, Oct 3 : After refusing to join the recently launched central healthcare scheme, the Congress government in Punjab on Wednesday gave in-principle approval to the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna (PMJAY) in the state. The Punjab cabinet on Wednesday extended the central scheme to cover over 42 lakh families. The cabinet, at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, decided to set up a committee under the Chief Secretary to work out the financial modalities for the implementation of the scheme. The scheme will be implemented at an estimated cost of over Rs 300 crore by cutting the budgets of other departments, as and where necessary, a spokesperson for the Chief Minister said here. "While PMJAY had proposed to cover 14.96 lakh SECC (Socio-Economic Caste Census) families in the state, the Amarinder government has decided to extend the scheme to provide Rs 5 lakh insurance cover to 42 lakh of the total 61 lakh families in the state. "These include families of farmers, construction workers and small traders, as well as other poor families (currently covered under the Bhagat Puran Singh Sehat Bima Yojana - BPSSBY)," the spokesperson said. With another 6-7 lakh government employees already covered, only a few rich families are left out of the purview of the scheme, thus effectively reaching out to the entire population of the state, he added. The cabinet also authorized the Chief Minister to rename the scheme for Punjab, where the Congress in its election manifesto had committed itself to providing universal health insurance. The spokesperson said that the estimated cost of an annual premium of Rs 1,082 per family would be shared between the central and state governments in the ratio of 60:40, which would cost Rs 65 crore to the state government annually. New Delhi, Oct 3 : India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Wednesday signed a $240 million loan agreement to provide safe drinking water to about 1.65 million people in three districts of West Bengal, an official statement said. The project aims to provide safe and sustainable drinking water to people in Bankura, North 24 Parganas and Purba Medinipur affected by arsenic, fluoride and salinity. "Heavy reliance on groundwater puts most of the rural population in West Bengal at risk from arsenic and fluoride contamination that can lead to health problems including cancer and bone diseases," the Ministry of Finance said in the statement "The project aims to mitigate these risks through provision of continuous potable water through metered connections to about 390,000 individual households in the three districts," it said. The West Bengal Drinking Water Sector Improvement Project is supported by a grant of $3 million from the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction and a $2 million grant from ADB's Urban Climate Change Resilience Trust Fund. The agreement was signed by Ministry of Finance Additional Secretary Sameer Kumar Khare for the Indian government and ADB's India Resident Mission Country Director Kenichi Yokoyama for the multilateral lending agency. Khare said the project will help mitigate the health risks from using groundwater with elevated levels of arsenic and fluoride. Yokoyama said that besides reducing the burden of diseases from contaminated groundwater, it will promote higher service levels compared with rural schemes in India with individual household connections. The Ministry said it will support the state in strengthening its smart water management system, improve flood-related early warning and response, and provide training on operation and maintenance as well as climate change and disaster resilience. Ankara, Oct 3 : A prominent Saudi journalist known as one of the country's most outspoken critic has gone missing after visiting its consulate in Turkey, raising concerns about his safety. Jamal Khashoggi, a contributor to the Washington Post, entered the Saudi Arabia's consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday afternoon for a visit relating to filing a divorce before he can remarry, the Guardian reported on Wednesday. "We don't know if he is being detained, questioned or when he will be released," the Post said. His Turkish fiancee, who waited outside for him for 12 hours, said he had failed to come out and then she called the police. She was accompanying him to the consulate but said she was not allowed to go inside with him. Khashoggi was also required to surrender his mobile phone. Another close friend also said the 59-year-old journalist had not left the consulate, a claim disputed by a Saudi official. It was not known if Khashoggi was able to leave the mission or he was being held against his will or was taken elsewhere, reports say. Qatar-based news outlet Al-Jazeera reported that Turkish police began a search for the missing writer. Khashoggi has been living in self-imposed exile in the US and is an established critic of the Saudi government -- particularly the reform plans championed by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. "With every supposed reform comes a wave of fresh arrests, prison sentences and increasingly repressive behaviour," said Jason Rezaian, a commentator for the Post. "At each turning point, though, Jamal has offered readers of the Post insightful commentary and sharp criticism about the seemingly impenetrable country." The BBC said that Khashoggi served as an adviser to the Saudi royal family and was for many years seen as an insider, until he left more than a year ago amid a reported clampdown on press freedom. With over 1.6 million followers on Twitter, Khashoggi is a prolific commentator in print and on television. He was famous for interviewing Osama bin Laden several times and also served as a media aide under Prince Turki al-Faisal, when the latter was Director General of the Saudi intelligence agency. A US state department spokesperson said they had seen the reports from Istanbul and were "seeking more information at this time". London, Oct 3 : British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday ruled out the possibility of a second Brexit referendum, saying the second referendum would be a "politicians' vote". "Politicians telling people they got it wrong the first time and should try again.. think for a moment what it would do to faith in our democracy," she said, referring to the "latest plan of holding a second referendum" which was called "People's Vote". "There are plenty of prominent people in British politics who want to stop Brexit in its tracks," she warned while speaking at the annual Conservative Party Conference. She defended the Brexit plan proposed by her but rejected by the European Union, saying it is for a free trade deal that provides for frictionless trade in goods, Xinhua news agency reported. "It would protect hundreds of thousands of jobs in the just-in-time supply chains our manufacturing firms rely on," the Prime Minister said. Britain "isn't afraid" to leave the EU with no deal, she said, adding that "resilience and ingenuity" of people will see Britain through. "Pursuing our own visions of the perfect Brexit could lead to no Brexit at all, May said, adding that she believed "our best days lie ahead of us". Earlier in the day, Conservative Member of Parliament James Duddridge submitted a letter of no confidence in the Prime Minister. He said he made the move because of the Prime Minister's refusal to "rip up Chequers" and due to former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson's "inspirational" speech on Tuesday at the conference. Johnson, an open critic of May's Brexit plan, launched a fresh attack against the Chequers plan for trade with the EU at the conference. He described it as a "cheat" that could lead to a boost for the far-right. Beijing, Oct 3 : US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit China on Monday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday. Pompeo's visit comes at a time when the ties between Beijing and Washington have hit rock bottom due to the ongoing nasty trade war. He will reach Beijing after meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on Sunday in Pyongyang. During Pompeo's visit, China and the US would exchange views on bilateral ties and regional and international issues of common concern, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said in a statement. There seems no let-up in tensions between the world's two largest economies who have slapped each other's goods with tariffs worth billions. Besides, US imposing sanctions on Chinese military unit and officials for buying Russian aircraft and Beijing's tit-for-tat move to cancel security talks with Washington have added fuel to the fire. Pompeo will also travel to Japan, South Korea between September 6 and September 8. Sanaa, Oct 3 : Yemen's Shia Houthi rebels on Wednesday released two sons of slain former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, the media reported. "The sons of Ali Abdullah Saleh, Salaah and Madyan, were released upon an amnesty from the (so-called) President of the Supreme Political Council Mahdi al-Mashat (top Houthi official)," the Houthis rebels said in a statement cited by state news agency Saba. The release came nearly 10 months after the rebels arrested them along with dozens of the former President's relatives following deadly clashes in the capital that killed Saleh at the hands of Houthis. On December 4, 2017, the Houthis said they killed Saleh, their once partner, after he sought peace with Saudi Arabia, the Sunni Gulf country that led an Arab military coalition against Iranian-allied Shia Houthi rebels. A senior Houthi militia member told Xinhua news agency that the release came following a "mediation from Oman" and that the sons of Saleh would be transported by an "Omani plane to United Arab Emirates (UAE), where they would join their exiled older brother Ahmed Ali Abdullah Saleh in Abu Dhabi". Saleh's family allied with the government of Saudi-backed exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi after the former broke out from alliance with Houthis in late 2017. There were no comments from the government on the Houthi statement. Last week, the Saudi-backed internationally recognized government said that the "Houthis prevented a UN plane from landing in Sanaa on September 28 to transport sons of Saleh, according to an agreement to release them signed by the Houthis". Saleh's family members, most of whom were military commanders and ran the country's elite Republican Guards and Counter-terrorism Special Forces during his 33 years of rule, are reportedly backed by the US, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. In September 2014, the Houthis advanced from their stronghold Saada province, storming the capital and controlled it and other northern cities by force, including the Red Sea port city of Hodeidah. The move triggered Saudi Arabia to lead an Arab military coalition and launched an Air Force campaign on Yemen in March 2015 to reinstate the government of exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. The war has killed more than 10,000 Yemenis, mostly civilians, and displaced 3 million others, according to UN aid agencies. New Delhi, Oct 3 : The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on Wednesday approved a financial package of Rs 469.41 crore for the revival of Nepa Ltd, a public sector newsprint company in Madhya Pradesh. The "revival and mill development plan" includes infusion of Rs 277 crore as equity to enhance the annual production capacity to one lakh metric tonne, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told reporters after the Cabinet meeting. The production capacity currently stands at around 83,000 metric tonne. The package also includes a loan of Rs 101.58 crore for payment of salaries and Rs 90.83 crore for voluntary retirement scheme of some 400 employees, he said. The Cabinet also approved strategic disinvestment of Nepa Ltd at an appropriate time after the completion of revival plan, an official said. "The completion of the revival plan will help the company command a better presence in the market besides supporting employment in the tribal belt of Madhya Pradesh," the official added. New Delhi, Oct 3 : Madhya Pradesh Congress Chief Kamal Nath on Wednesday said that the BSP's decision to go it alone in the Assembly elections in the state is not a setback and that the party was confident of doing well because of the "groundswell of support is phenomenal". "I don't think it's a setback. Even the smallest BSP worker will understand the implications of this and know how to exercise his option," he told NDTV when asked whether BSP Chief Mayawati's statement ruling out an alliance with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh was a huge setback to his party. Asked whether there was still a possibility of the Congress and the BSP aligning together in the state because of the conciliatory statement of Mayawati towards Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, Kamal Nath said she has already said that her party was going alone in the elections. To a question as to how confident he was about the Congress facing the elections, the senior leader said "absolutely, we are very confident. I have a sense of elections which I have been seeing for the last 40 years. There is a groundswell of support for the party which is phenomenal. We certainly will defeat the BJP." Asked how the alliance talks with the BSP broke, Kamal Nath said he did not know why they broke down. "It is not the numbers alone because BSP just having the numbers (in seats to be contested) is of no use. Actually what matters is the ability to defeat the BJP in a seat." "Let's see, many leaders of many parties are in touch with me over the last few months," he said in reply to another question. Kamal Nath accused the BJP of trying to fragment and split the votes. Lucknow, Oct 3 : Police officials in Baghpat district of western Uttar Pradesh have assured family members of a young man alleged to have been murdered that a "just probe" would be carried out into the matter, after 13 of them changed their religion to Hinduism as a protest. Additional Superintendent of Police, Rajesh Kumar Srivastava, visited the village after news emerged that 13 members of a Muslim family had converted, alleging "unfair investigation" by the police. Srivastava told IANS that he had met the family members to assure them of a "free and fair probe", which he said was still underway. "The decision to change their religion was their own and the police has nothing to do with it," he added. The family members alleged that the body of the young man, aged 22, was found in a shop on July 22 this year and that he had been murdered, although the police refused to accept this and had closed the case calling it a suicide. The 13 family members of the deceased had given affidavits to the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) of Badaut informing the district administration of their "wilful changing of religion", a district official told IANS. They also participated in a special 'havan', changing there names to Hindu ones, the official, who did not want to be named, said. All 13 are from Niwada village's Khubbipura locality. During the conversion rituals, Hindu Yuva Vahini office- bearers were present. Some family members alleged that they were forced to convert by the Vahini members. The Vahini was founded in April 2002, on Ram Navami day by Yogi Adityanath, the present chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. Village head Raj Kumar Singh and others said they will petition senior officers to get the family members of the deceased person justice. Singh said that no coercion was involved in the change of religion. The conversions have sparked off some tension in the area. Bhopal/Shahdol, Oct 3 : The police arrested two persons for killing an elderly man by dragging him with their two-wheeler in Madhya Pradesh's Shahdol district on September 29. The State Human Rights Commission on Wednesday took cognizance of the case and issued notice to the Shahdol superintendent of police to submit details of the incident within three weeks. The body of Babulal Yadav, 60, was found in Kotma village of Shahdol district on September 29. Inspector Subhash Dwivedi said both the accused -- Keshav Yadav and Jethu Yadav -- were arrested late on Tuesday after a complaint from family members of the victim. Land dispute is said to have led to the crime. Babulal Yadav died after his hands were tied and he was dragged by a motorcycle. Bengaluru, Oct 3 : Global credit rating agency Moody's Investors Service on Wednesday assigned 'A3' local-currency issuer rating to Infosys with stable outlook, citing the company's strong financial profile. "The rating is based on Infosys' status as a leading IT consulting and services firm, with operations across business segments and geographies, profitability and a solid balance sheet," said the city-based firm in a statement, citing Moody's. The rating puts the $10.9-billion software exporter two notches above the Indian government's Baa2 stable rating, thanks to the information technolgy major's international revenue base and a strong financial profile. Infosys has 'A' rating from the US-based financial services firm Standard & Poor's. "With Moody's and S&P's ratings, the company will have dual investment grade ratings, which are higher than India's sovereign ratings from both these agencies," Infosys said. The stable outlook takes into account the company's liquidity, a debt-free balance sheet, strong operating metrics, and a robust business model. "Moody's rating is a testimony to our resilient global business model, which has delivered consistent business outcomes over the years," said the company's Chief Financial Officer M.D. Ranganath in the statement. The rating is also reflective of the company's robust financial position, healthy cash flow and a good financial performance, added Ranganath. Patna, Oct 3 : The body of a bank manager, who was abducted last week from Sheikhpura district of Bihar, was recovered from Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand on Wednesday, police said. Three abductors have been arrested in this connection, Nalanda Superintendent of Police Sudhir Kumar Porika said. Jaivardhan Kumar of the Bihar Kshetriya Grameen Bank was kidnapped from Sheikhpura on September 27 evening while returning from neighbouring Nalanda district. The abductors had reportedly demanded a ransom from the family and warned them against seeking police help. A police team of Nalanda recovered Kumar's mobile phone from a village in Nawada district, which served as the primary clue in the investigation. Last week, a 15-year-old school student, who was allegedly abducted for ransom, was found murdered in Patna. New Delhi, Oct 3 : A 20-year-old Delhi University student has been arrested on the charge of involvement in the murder of two brothers in his native Haryana due to personal enmity, police said on Wednesday. "Accused Anshu of Sonepat district was arrested on Tuesday evening when he was on way to meet his relative in Mitroan village in Najafgarh area," Deputy Commissioner of Police Anto Alphonse said. "Anshu, a BA first-year student at Swami Shraddhanand College, was badly beaten up in 2017 by Aashish, 25, over a minor issue at a wedding in Halalpur village in Haryana. Anshu told police that Aashish used to taunt him over the assault," the officer added. "Anshu called his friends Sandeep, Rohit, Mannu, Arun and Kartik from Delhi to his village on September 23 to take revenge. They opened fire on Aashish. When his younger brother Himanshu, 21, came to his rescue, they fired at him too. Both brothers died on the spot," he added. All five friends were arrested earlier this week by Haryana Police, he said. Anshu told police that he fell into bad company during his college days and was involved in crime, including two cases of rioting and under the Arms Act in Delhi. New Delhi, Oct 3 : The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued notice to the Election Commission (EC) on a plea by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs to call witnesses for examination in the office-of-profit case. Justice Siddharth Mridul passed the order while hearing their petition against the poll panel's rejection of their plea for calling witnesses. The court also sought the response of complainant Prashant Patel on whose plea the poll panel had earlier recommended disqualification of legislators. The matter was listed for hearing on November 1. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had appointed 20 AAP legislators as Parliamentary Secretaries. Advocate Prashant Patel had approached the EC seeking their disqualification on the ground that they held office of profit. New Delhi, Oct 3 : The Delhi High Court on Wednesday transferred the sexual assault case against self-styled godman Daati Maharaj to the Central Bureau of Investigation. The case was being probed by Delhi Police. A bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice V. Kameswar Rao transferred the case to the investigating agency on a petition by the victim. The incident came to light after the woman filed a case alleging that the founder of the Delhi-based Shree Shanidham Trust had subjected her to rape and unnatural sex. The High Court pulled up the Delhi Police for not arresting the self-styled godman, and transferred the matter to the CBI. Delhi Police on October 1 filed the chargesheet against Daati Maharaj and others in the case. The court said the CBI can file a supplementary chargesheet and directed the agency to submit a report on investigation in three weeks. The court has listed the case for the next hearing on October 30. The bench was hearing two pleas, one by the complainant and the other a public interest litigation, seeking transfer of the case to the CBI. Amritsar, Oct 3 : United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday visited Amritsar's Golden Temple complex, where the holiest of Sikh shrines Harmandir Sahib is located. Guterres, the first UN head to have visited the shrine, offered prayers at the holy temple. "I want to express my deep respect for the religion of the Sikh people and this wonderful Golden Temple, in which the spirit of peace and tolerance is present. I prayed here as a Catholic but, all people, from all religions in the world, can pray in this holy place," Guterres said. "There are unfortunately not many temples in the world where this is possible, and this makes me feel very happy to be here and very proud to be invited. And, at the same time, it increases my admiration for the Sikh communities everywhere: the Sikh community in India, the Sikh community in my part of the world, in Europe, in North America, everywhere where Sikhs are contributing to the development of our world," he said. The UN chief, who was accompanied by Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri, was taken around the shrine complex and the 'Langar Hall', the largest community kitchen in the world. Guterres, who sported a white cloth to cover his head, appreciated the work being done at the shrine complex. "I want to express to my hosts my deep gratitude and wish you all the best - to the wonderful practice that the Golden Temple represents, receiving everybody, sharing with everybody the food, but, more than the food, sharing this wonderful spirit of peace, of harmony, of understanding that we badly need in today's world," he said. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) officials accompanied the visiting dignitary. Kolkata, Oct 3 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday urged police officers to step up vigil in their respective areas to prevent untoward incidents ahead of the festive season. "Some people in the state are trying to turn the happy festive season into an unhappy one. I urge all police commissionerates in the state to start naka-checking and intensify the monitoring process," Banerjee said at the inauguration event of a tourism complex in Jalpaiguri district's Gajaldoba. "It is the duty of the Officers in-charge of the police stations to keep the situation in their respective areas under control," she said. Banerjee's comments came a day after a low-intensity bomb explosion took place in North 24 Pargana district's Dumdum near Kolkata, killing one and injuring nine others. State's ruling Trinamool Congress accused BJP and RSS of masterminding the blast and claimed that it was targeted at their local party leader. "There should be strict vigil in all the areas before the festive season. The SPs also have to be alert. The days of spending idle time at home is over," she added. Bengal's biggest festival Durga Puja will start from October 14 followed by Dussehra and Diwali. New Delhi : Rome, Oct 3 (AKI/IANS) Italy will continue to shelter those fleeing war, natural disasters and persecution, Premier Giuseppe Conte said on Wednesday after the populist government issued a heavily criticised decree toughening the rules for refugees and asylum-seekers. "We will never turn away those who have the right to refugee status, those who are fleeing from serious situations including war, persecution and natural disasters or various forms of violence," Conte said. Moreover, Italy will respect international law and never repatriate people to countries where they would not be safe, Conte stressed. One-year 'special residency permits' will be granted which can be converted into work and study permits, preventing "abuse" of international protection, Conte said. Humanitarian protection - a lower level of asylum status based on Italian rather than international law - which was granted to 25 per cent of asylum seekers last year will in future be awarded based on six strict criteria under the decree. Italy's President Sergio Mattarella has up to 60 days to sign the decree and it must then be passed into law by parliament. The decree, which makes it easier to expel migrants and strip them of Italian citizenship, was issued by the government in late September. New Delhi, Oct 3 : India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Wednesday signed a $150 million loan agreement to establish the country's first multi-skills park in Madhya Pradesh to create a more skilled workforce, an official statement said. The Global Skills Park (GSP), to be set up in Bhopal, will help enhance the quality of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system in the state. The campus will consist of core Advanced Training Institutes including the Center for Occupational Skills Acquisition and the Center for Advanced Agricultural Training as well as other support services focusing on entrepreneurship, training of trainers and skill-related research, the Ministry of Finance said in the statement. "The campus will have training facilities focusing on skills for manufacturing, service and advanced agricultural jobs, benefitting about 20,000 trainees and trainers," it said. Further, the project will also help in modernizing 10 industrial training institutes across the state by renovating training infrastructure and upgrading skills courses to align with industry and market needs, the statement said. The agreement was signed by Ministry of Finance Additional Secretary Sameer Kumar Khare for the Indian government and ADB's India Resident Mission Country Director Kenichi Yokoyama for the multilateral lending agency. Khare said it will improve the quality and relevance of the state's TVET programs and will help impart advanced job-ready skills training of international standards. Yokoyama said that the project will engage international TVET partners to support advanced training at the GSP who will bring global best practices in TVET management, training infrastructure, industry cooperation and quality assurance. New Delhi, Oct 3 : Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday urged the Election Commission (EC) to take action against those making "false complaints". Chouhan led a delegation to the EC and submitted a memorandum. He said that the opposition was levelling baseless allegations and spreading canards in the poll-bound state. He said recently, the Congress had complained of 60 lakh bogus voters in the state, which was found false by the poll panel. He said that such false allegations not only spoil the state's image but also raise questions over EC's integrity. He said the Commission should take action against parties making such baseless allegations. He also requested the EC to properly define the term "paid news". Hyderabad, Oct 3 : Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Wednesday called on educational institutions to encourage students to embrace the spirit of nationalism and patriotism. "Education is the manifestation of the perfection already in man. It should lay the foundation for a strong character. The education system must help students to become good, compassionate and caring human beings with a sense of empathy." "It must inculcate strong ethical and moral values and infuse the spirit of nationalism and patriotism among students," the Vice President said. He was addressing the founder's day celebrations of CHIREC International School here. He stressed the need to teach students the culture and heritage of India. "It is quite essential to make children aware of India's heritage, culture, customs, traditions and the basic Indian philosophy of sharing and caring. We believe in Vasudaiva Kutumbakkam -- the whole world is one family." He said that educational institutions in the country should take an active lead and revamp the system to make it more relevant and contemporary. He suggested that steps should be taken to reduce the burden on students. "First and foremost, the syllabus at the school level has to be drastically cut to reduce the load on students." "The time spent by students in school should be divided equally between the classroom and play field," he added. New Delhi, Oct 3 : The National Human Rights Commission on Wednesday said it will send its team to West Bengal's Dinajpur town for an inquiry into the deaths of two students during clashes in their school two weeks back. The two students from Darivit High School, Islampur in north Dinajpur, lost their lives while many others were injured as clashes broke out between them and the police over hiring of Urdu teachers. In a statement, the NHRC said its own team headed by Deputy Inspector General(Investigation) will conduct an on-the-spot inquiry into the allegations in the case. "The Commission has received three complaints in the matter. It has directed that the inquiry be completed at the earliest and that a report be submitted within two weeks. "The Commission has observed that allegations, if true, would amount to the police authorities having acted in a sheer barbaric manner giving no respect to human values," the statement said. Weird Tales of Pixieland, Central Oregon Coast History, Part I Published 10/03/2018 at 2:44 PM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff (Lincoln City, Oregon) - The whole tale actually begins with Pixie Kitchen, which was an enormously popular restaurant on the central Oregon coast from the 50s until the 70s, finally folding in the 80s. From that sprung Pixieland, a sprawling playground of Disney-esque ideals that was just outside of Lincoln City for a few short but rather legendary years. This is part one of this two-part series on Pixieland and its kooky tales. Part two: Kooky Oregon Coast History: Lincoln City's Pixieland Part Two. Its funny how time has treated this Oregon coast amusement park: its now more legendary and popular than it was throughout most of its short, often wobbly days. On Highway 101, not far from the Highway 18 junction, youll find a plaque showing where Pixieland was. If you blink, youll miss it. Nature has reclaimed the 53-acre attraction completely, and thats the way Oregon state officials wanted it. At its heyday which was awfully brief - it boasted a dozen or so rides, a sizable park for trailer campers next door, and a smattering of eatery booths. Rides like the Grunykinland put you in the arms of a giant bear and sent you into a dark area lit by black lights that was supposedly the home of the pixies. There was a log flume that got you slightly wet, some bumper cars, and a train that meandered around the property. Pixieland opened its doors to much fanfare in 1969, with an appearance by Governor Tom McCall. It was on land that Pixie Kitchen owner Jerry Parks had purchased in 1966, part of a backup plan in case a proposed bypass of Highway 101 actually happened. Parks figured it would cut off the tourist throngs from the restaurant, but luckily it was never built. So up this vision of pixies on the Oregon coast went: but cracks in it showed pretty quickly. There are plenty of interesting anecdotes about it. Among them, that Paul Newman visited there in 1971 during the filming of Sometimes a Great Notion. Ed Dreistadt, director of Lincoln Citys visitors center, has become a bit of an expert on the place. He recalls Parks daughter, Sharon Walters, telling the story of when they were in the middle of some construction in its early days, with the help of her husband, Howard. One day, a dump truck was dropping dirt near the train trestle that the parks little choo choo ran on. The driver forgot to put the bed down, and started driving out of the park and took out the trestle, Dreistadt said. Sharon was working at the parks restaurant at the time and heard a horrible noise. So she had to call down to where Howard was at another end of the park and told them to not let the train leave. There was a lot of enthusiasm and optimism for Pixieland for even the first two, three years: even by the second year, when problems began to be evident, everyone plowed right ahead. They simply began work on fixing the various issues. One thing, however, seriously eluded them: turning a profit. The right formula for grabbing enough visitors to really turn things around was somehow never within reach. More on Pixieland and coastal history is found in these books: By 1971, serious cracks began to show, including Parks lowering his own salary. They slowly began trying a flurry of new things, including selling longterm lots at the trailer park and a variety of changing rides. In 1972, the Salmon River flooded parts of the complex. A Ferris wheel came and went, they began charging admission, and suddenly in 1973 Parks openly complained the operating season was too short and that the amusement park was too far from a major population center like Portland. Dreistadt remembers a man who gave him a DVD of some home movies made there, somewhere around 1974. There was no one there, Dreistadt said. Its like he had this whole amusement park to himself. Then there was the freaky monkey they kept. That and other oddities are coming in part two. Part two of this historical series: Kooky Oregon Coast History: Lincoln City's Pixieland Part Two . Lodgings in Lincoln City - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours Also See: Inn at Lincoln City. Right on the famed D River with ocean views, and just a block from the beach. Elegant guest rooms come in a wide range, from smaller to those with views and whirlpool tubs. ADA-defined service animal-friendly. Centrally located, its a quick drive to the casino, seven miles of beaches, the bay, and not far from the outlet mall. Copious complimentary breakfast in the morning, free wi-fi, a business center, accessible elevator, a sizable DVD library, pets allowed and a 24-hour lobby catering to your needs. The entrance is a grand beauty all its own. You get access to a lakeside fire pit, perfect for those light breezes of evening and smores. Plenty of parking, and theres an indoor spa. All rooms come with coffee maker, microwave, refrigerator, flat screen TV, hair dryer, air conditioning. 100 percent smoke free. 1091 SE 1st Street. Lincoln City, Oregon. (541) 996-4400. Website here. Below: Highway 18, Van Duzer Corridor, not far from the old Pixieland site More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Hyderabad, Oct 3 : The Election Commission of India (EC) on Wednesday barred TRS government in Telangana from distributing free sarees among poor women on the occasion of Bathukamma festival. The poll panel communicated to the state Chief Electoral Officer that the state government is not permitted to distribute the sarees on the occasion of the festival from October 12. The EC secretariat communicated this in response to a letter sent last week by Chief Electoral Officer Rajat Kumar, who wanted to know if the state government could go ahead with the distribution of sarees. The poll panel's directive has come as a setback to the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), which was keen on the annual programme in the run-up to the ensuing elections. The opposition parties had urged the Election Commission not to allow the programme. The EC had last week clarified that the Election Code of Conduct (ECC) came into effect with the dissolution of the Assembly. It also made it clear that the TRS government is only a caretaker government. The TRS government dissolved the Assembly on September 6, paving the way for early elections. The elections are expected to be held in November-December. Bathukamma, a popular folk festival of Telangana, is celebrated by women during Dussehra festival time. After Telangana state was formed in 2014, the TRS government had declared it a state festival. The government had last year started distribution of free sarees among women belonging to weaker sections on the occasion of Bathukamma. The programme was also aimed at providing work to the weavers in the state. Under the ambitious scheme, the state government had this year given orders to wavers' societies for making 95 lakh sarees and blouses to handloom units. The government had made arrangements for distribution of sarees from October 12. More than half of the sarees were already sent to the districts for distribution. The government had ordered manufacturing of these polyester sarees in 80 colours and designs at a cost of Rs 280 crore. HYY Group has acquired the Seurahuone building, located in the heart of Helsinki, from Sponda. The historical block at Kaivopiha will be largely restored to its original purpose, as HYY Group expands its hotel business to parts of the New Student House. Parts of the New Student House will be restored... [] Small business confidence and creative thinking by CBD landlords have driven a 235% increase in demand for small office space in Melbourne, says Colliers International. The firm reported a year-on-year increase in demand for sub-300 square metre office suites in the Melbourne CBD. This accelerated demand highlights the strength in sentiment among small business owners, Colliers Internationals Milly Stockdale said. We received 748 enquiries for small suites over the past financial year FY 2017/2018, compared to 318 enquiries from FY 2016/2017. This equates to 2.3 times the demand, year on year. This demand has also flowed through to leasing activity, with Colliers International concluding over 100 deals for space under 300 square metres in Melbournes CBD year to date, compared to less than 70 at the same time last year. Over the next 12 months, there is only 115,000 square metres of new supply space and over 81,000 square metres of backfill space due to be added to the Melbourne CBD market. This means vacancy rates will continue to tighten, providing competitive tenant conditions. The lack of upcoming supply is causing tenants to commit to space to ensure that they dont miss out on a quality address, it says. Strong population and job growth in Melbourne is supporting rental growth and a healthy environment for small businesses to expand. In the recent deal, a2m Consulting secured its first CBD office, leasing 132 square metres at Suleman Groups 470 Collins Street in a deal negotiated by Stockdale and colleague Brigitte Doupe. Many iconic CBD buildings are choosing to execute a small suite strategy on vacant whole floors, due to the uptake in the market and effective net rental growth and minimal downtime, Doupe said. Recent activity at 470 Collins Street where we have negotiated 10 sub-400 square metres leasing deals in the last eight months is a prime example of this. This trend has also been recently demonstrated at 360 Collins Street, where Colliers International has secured 23 tenants under 400 square metres in the last 18 months for Dexus Property, Colliers Internationals Adam Davy said. This growth in demand can be attributed to several factors, including the strength in sentiment among small businesses, and the Melbourne economy supporting small business growth. Doupe said small businesses were jumping at the chance to secure CBD space which would see them benefit from easy access, quality of amenity and proximity to clients and stakeholders. Additional leases at 470 Collins Street have included: - Cherub Consulting (45.4 square metres) - Javadi (52.3 square metres) - Efex Group (40 square metres) - Endeavour Conultants (63.4 square metres) - Australian Institue of Engineering & Technology (139.1 square metres) - Jaythorm (147.80 square metres) - United Almonds (100.4 square metres) - Austudy (209 square metres) - Egali (85 square metres) - Unify Solutions (96.4 square metres) Vicinity Centres has announced a progress update asset divestment program, with the sale of a portfolio of 10 sub regional and neighbourhood shopping centres to SCA Property Group. They also sold one Neighbourhood shopping centre to a private investor, for an aggregate sale price of $631.0 million. The aggregate sale price of $631.0 million reflects a 5.1% discount to the combined 30 June 2018 book values of the eleven assets and a weighted average capitalisation rate of 6.9%. Vicinity has now divested 35 shopping centres for more than $2.5 billion at a 0.5% premium to book value. Discussions are noted to be underway with prospective purchasers of three remaining assets included in Vicinitys divestment program. Mr Grant Kelley, Vicinitys CEO and Managing Director, said These transactions are a significant achievement and advance our strategy to unlock major potential in the business. It is an important step in delivering strong and sustainable growth through focusing our directly-owned portfolio on approximately fifty market-leading destination assets, expanding our wholesale funds platform and realising mixed-use opportunities across the portfolio. SCP will acquire ten assets for a total consideration of $573.0 million. Settlement of these transactions is expected later this month. The sale of Belmont Village (pictured above) in Victoria to a private investor for $58.0 million was settled at the end of September . As at 30 June 2018, the eleven assets sold had specialty sales per square metre averaging $7,611. Vicinitys FFO guidance for FY19 remains unchanged at 18.0 to 18.2 cents per security. Assuming the sale proceeds of the eleven non-core assets are used to repay debt in the short-term, gearing would be reduced by approximately 280 basis points. EXPERT OBSERVATION Years ago I lived up in Darwin. It's a cool place - at least figuratively, if not literally - and certainly very different from the sometimes drab sameness of suburban life in the big smoke. One of the things I liked about it was how almost everyone turns out when there's an event in town, such the V8 Supercars and INXS playing live (or whatever). Mindil Beach Sunset Markets quite rightly attract a buzzing crowd every weekend too. Meanwhile, the National Parks of Kakadu and Litchfield are a must-see-to-believe, especially in the Big Wet (although most Aussies talk of there being two seasons - wet and dry - Kakadu's traditional owners recognise six different seasons, understanding the subtle transitions between them). The odd earthquake aside, Darwin has the best winter climate of any city I've experienced, perfect dry heat in the low 30s all day every day, and never a cloud to be seen. The summer weather, on the other hand, can range from harsh humidity to downright brutal and Cyclonic. Although I love the place, I think it would be fair to say that a lack of diversity of choice is a net negative for the Top End, including within the labour force. There were stacks of jobs in resources and in the public sector during my time up north, but not very much else. Employment rates and full-time salaries are high, and official unemployment rates remain very low. But the mining boom years have faded and people are steadily drifting back where they came from. Actually, not that steadily now...quite quickly! I also recall simple things like going for a takeaway or a coffee being phenomenally expensive, although for all I know maybe that's changed as the mining sector has cooled. From boom to bust From 2003 dwelling prices soared relentlessly in Darwin for a decade, rising by more than 180% by the middle of 2014, by far the biggest increase of any of Australia's 8 capital cities over that period. Since the peak of the resources construction boom time prices have dropped back by 18%, including by 6% over the 2018 financial year alone. During the boom years thousands of Aussies were relocating from interstate up to the Top End lured by the high wages on offer. But although the sector experienced a second wind post-financial crisis as China stimulated its economy, even the mighty $54 billion (hello overruns!) Inpex/Ichthys LNG project hasn't been enough to stem to the inevitable downturn. And now the NT is losing residents interstate in droves, with more than 3,500 upping sticks on a net basis over the year to March 2018. With life expectancy increasing, you typically see more births than deaths these days, so the population of Australia increases naturally even without its prevailing strong immigration program. But in the NT the outflow of residents interstate is overwhelming both net overseas migration and the natural increase, to the extent that the population of the territory has actually declined by 1,000 persons over the past six months to 246,700. There are few weaker dynamics for a housing market than an outright decline in the population, if sustained. No doubt the local authorities will be putting in place incentives to entice families to move up north. In short, arguably no state or territory presently has a more concerning range of metrics in its economy or housing market. In arrears Last week I looked at how each of the most populous states is faring with regards to 30+ day mortgage arrears. In short, not great in Western Australia, pretty comfortable elsewhere. Let's now consider the other four states and territories. As you might expect the NT had the highest rate of prime and non-conforming 30+ day arrears at 2.67% as at July 2018, although this had declined just a little over the preceding two months of available figures from 2.82%. Elsewhere arrears rates were reasonably low in South Australia at 1.50% following a marked improvement, very low in thriving Tasmania at 1.31%, and extremely low in the Australian Capital Territory at 0.74%. Generally mortgage arrears are a little higher than a year earlier across the board, despite falling unemployment rates, in part due to interest-only mortgages being reset. Hopefully the NT can turn itself around soon! PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and blogger. Ag-Pro Companies We welcome this addition to our company and look forward to enhance our service to the residents of South Carolina. Ag-Pro has now acquired Spartanburg, South Carolina - based Wilson Equipment Company. This addition marks a milestone as Ag-Pros 60th John Deere dealership. The Spartanburg, SC location is located in the rapidly growing Greenville, SC metropolitan area and will serve a diverse customer base. This expansion will complement Ag-Pros other South Carolina locations providing customers with another convenient location for sales and aftermarket support. Family-owned and operated, Wilson Equipment Company was established in 1949. It supplies agricultural and outdoor power equipment and is an authorized dealer for John Deere. Ag-Pro CEO James Groover remarked in a statement, We welcome this addition to our company and look forward to enhance our service to the residents of South Carolina. With this most recent acquisition, Ag-Pro can continue to live its motto, Strong on Service, and provide even more value to its customers. Ag-Pros huge dealer base means stronger purchasing power enabling it to offer better prices, quicker service, and more convenience. About Ag-Pro Headquartered in Boston, Ga., Ag-Pro is the largest privately held John Deere dealer in the United States with locations across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas. Ag-Pro employs 1250 employees across its 60 full service John Deere dealership locations with annual sales of over $800 million. Learn more at https://www.agproco.com. For more information, contact Carey Odum, Marketing Director, at codum(at)agproco.com or 800-241-4595. Alelo VCAT Japan Alelos mission is to help learners around the world communicate more effectively. Our training products have made a difference for learners and saved lives. The Defense Language and National Security Education Office (DLNSEO) has awarded Alelo Inc. a multi-year contract to expand and enhance DLNSEOs suite of Virtual Cultural Awareness Trainers (VCATs). VCATs are simulation-based learning environments that help military personnel quickly develop the cultural skills that they will need when working overseas. The total value of the contract when fully funded will be over $8 million. U.S. Combatant Commands (COCOMs) deploy US personnel around the world who require culture and language skills to do their jobs. According to DLNSEO, the VCAT is the preferred method of the COCOMs to provide all assigned or attached personnel the proper training to meet the growing culture and language training requirements. Alelo has developed VCAT courses for over 90 countries, and over 200,000 learners have trained with them. This new contract engages Alelo to create VCATs for additional countries; incorporate interactive games and learning resources; and update cultural content to reflect evolving cultural dynamics due to conflicts, refugee migrations, urbanization, and environmental change. To develop VCATs, Alelo conducts original cultural research, interviewing individuals with first-hand knowledge of the local culture and the tasks and missions that US personnel typically undertake in that region. Alelo uses these findings to construct immersive simulations in which learners role-play meetings and encounters with counterparts in other countries, and mentally prepare for when they will engage in such encounters overseas. Alelo has developed advanced artificial intelligence technologies for learning cross-cultural communication skills, such as avatars that speak and understand the local language and interact with learners in culturally appropriate ways. Students in two-dozen countries are using this technology to improve their spoken English skills. Alelo is partnering with virtual-reality companies to create virtual-reality environments that immerse learners in culturally realistic situations. Alelo CEO Dr. Lewis Johnson notes: Alelos mission is to help learners around the world communicate more effectively. Our training products have made a difference for learners and saved lives. Our partnership with DLNSEO will continue to make our learning products available to learners throughout the Department of Defense. ABOUT ALELO INC. Alelo creates learning solutions that help people acquire new skills and apply them when it counts, changing the way people communicate. The company has been delivering game-based solutions for learning communication skills using virtual role-play technology since 2003 when it spun out as a DARPA-funded research project from the University of Southern California. Alelo applies its virtual role-play to language and culture learning, communication skills, and other soft skills. Alelos cloud-based Enskill learning platform is in use in over 20 countries. alelo.com Unfortunately, many women in the South Florida community are affected by breast cancer, so everyone at All Year Cooling is proud to contribute to a cause near to all of our hearts All Year Cooling, a South Florida air conditioning installation and repair company, donates a portion of all income from October AC installations in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. This will be the fifth year that All Year Cooling has donated a portion of their revenue to Cancer.org. All donations help the American Cancer Society fund groundbreaking breast cancer research to help prevent breast cancer and find it earlier, when its easier to treat. In addition, the donation money will assist the organization in providing free information and support to any women affected by the disease. Unfortunately, many women in the South Florida community are affected by breast cancer, so everyone at All Year Cooling is proud to contribute to a cause near to all of our hearts, said Tommy Smith, the president of All Year Cooling. In addition to the donation of Octobers proceeds, the local HVAC company is also dedicating its website to Breast Cancer Awareness by changing its design to feature the pink ribbon symbol as well as an overall pink theme. Cancer.org is a great way for people to get involved with donating to various types of cancer research. Since working with them, the company has been able to raise a considerable amount for the cause. As a family-owned and local company, All Year Cooling greatly values giving back to the South Florida community. All Year Cooling gives a portion of its proceeds to veterans through Project We Care, a local non-profit organization, has created a scholarship to help local students attend university, annually supports Breast Cancer Awareness, and contributes to many Broward County classrooms. More about All Year Cooling: Established in 1973, All Year Cooling has completed over 350,000 air conditioner installations in South Florida. Their goal is to provide the consumer with the best overall value and service on new air conditioner installations, maintenance, and repairs. Tommy Smith along with his team makes it their mission to provide quality service and remain a trusted part of the South Florida community. Call All Year Cooling for all your AC needs at 888-204-5554! You can also visit their website at http://www.allyearcooling.com/ Our MUV Medical Cannabis Dispensaries are unlike anything in the market, and we invite all licensed patients to visit any of our three locations and to learn about our proven line of products. AltMed Florida has announced the opening of its first Tampa MUV Medical Cannabis dispensary location at 7229 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. Just north of the airport, its easily accessible for Florida patients in Pinellas County to the west, and rapidly growing population centers east and north of Tampa, from Brandon to Wesley Chapel. The Grand Opening is Saturday, October 6, 2018 with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9:45 a.m. The dispensary opens for business at 10 a.m. for licensed Florida medical cannabis patients. Like AltMed Floridas two current locations (Sarasota and Apollo Beach), the new Tampa dispensary stands out from competitors because its designed as a premium experience. Think Apple store, with modern open-concept design, expert staff with extensive training, a high staff to customer ratio and premium products with trusted award-winning brands known for quality and consistency. We are changing the medial cannabis experience to what it should be for Florida patients who deserve the best, said AltMed Florida CEO John Tipton. Our MUV Medical Cannabis Dispensaries are unlike anything in the market. We invite all licensed patients to visit any of our three locations and to learn about our proven line of products. The MUV brand already has a wide following in other legal medical cannabis markets, including Arizona, where it has won Five Best of Arizona medical cannabis awards. MUV Products offer an extensive variety of delivery options and formulation, including several that are unique among current Florida license holders with its patent-pending transdermal gels and metered dose inhalers. Products come high in CBD or THC as well as CBD/THC balanced formulations. Product categories include topicals (gels and creams), 72-hour transdermal patches, metered dose inhalers, distillate vaporizer pens (without any cutting agents), all-natural terpene enriched vaporizer pens, strain specific vaporizer pens, oral sprays, tinctures as well as the widest selection of strain specific shatter concentrates in the state of Florida. MUV Products are sold exclusively in Florida at MUV dispensaries because, unlike other states, Florida does not allow wholesale of product between license holders - only products that license holders make themselves can be sold in their dispensaries. The MUV retail experience speaks to the role of medical cannabis products in the modern healthcare marketplace, said AltMed Marketing Director Todd Beckwith. We learned that MUV customers in other legal medical cannabis states are more apt to take an active role in their healthcare than with traditional medicine. They want to understand the products and the research behind the products, so we have created a layered and informative retail experience. For more information about the new ADA compliant Tampa MUV Medical Cannabis Dispensary, including hours and available MUV products, visit: http://www.altmedflorida.com. AltMed Florida is on pace to open 25 MUV Medical Cannabis Dispensaries across the state. Visit this link for images of AltMed Floridas cultivation facility. About AltMed Enterprises - Alternative Medical Enterprises, LLC, headquartered in Sarasota, FL and doing business as AltMed Enterprises, is a fully integrated company that brings pharmaceutical industry precision to the development, production and dispensing of medical cannabinoids. About AltMed Florida, LLC (Plants of Ruskin, LLC d.b.a.) - With a focus on quality and attention to detail, Plants of Ruskin has more than 35 years of experience in providing seedlings to farmers for vegetable and medical product production. Plants of Ruskin founders, the Dickman Family, are 4th generation farmers with a long history of working in conjunction with the University of Florida, including an endowed chair specifically dedicated to plant improvement. About MUV - The MUV brand of cannabis infused products was launched in Arizona in 2016 and has quickly gained international attention and recognition. In its first six months alone, MUV received four best of Arizona medical cannabis awards, including two first prizes for its proprietary extractions that are the basis of all MUV products. Forward-Looking Statements - To the extent any statements made in this press release contain information that is not historical, these statements are forward-looking in nature and merely express our beliefs, expectations or opinions. For example, words such as may, should, estimates, predicts, continues, believes, anticipates, plans, expects, intends, potential, strategy and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are based on current expectations or estimates and involve a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include, but are not limited to, the following: (i) our ability to implement our business strategy of distributing high quality cannabis products where permissible under applicable law; (ii) availability and cost of additional capital; (iii) our ability to attract, retain and motivate qualified employees and management; (iv) the impact of federal, state or local government regulations; (v) competition in the cannabis industry; (vi) our ability to generate revenues; and (vii) litigation in connection with our business. All forward-looking statements included in this press release and attributable to us or any person acting on our behalf are qualified by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and, except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, regardless of whether new information becomes available, future developments occur or otherwise. Dickinson Wright PLLC is pleased to announce that Attorney Kelly Martorano has been elected as Chair of the State Bar of Michigans Environmental Law Section. Her selection took place during the Annual Meeting on September 27, 2018. The State Bar of Michigans Environmental Law Section examines proposed legislation and regulations concerning natural resources and environmental law. The chair is responsible for leading the sections Executive Council and promoting the education of members of the Bar and the general public in those areas pertaining to natural resources and environmental law. This is accomplished through the sponsoring of webinars and conferences as well as the publication of the Michigan Environmental Law Journal. To learn more about the Environmental Law Section, please click here. Kelly Martorano is Of Counsel in the firms Troy office. Through her practice, she assists clients such as, large and small companies, financial institutions, and municipalities with evaluating and navigating various transactional and regulatory environmental issues. In addition, she has prepared and negotiated purchase and sale agreements, leases, easements, and various real estate documents related to the acquisition, disposition, leasing, construction and financing of medical office building projects in Michigan. Ms. Martorano is recognized as a leader in her field by Best Lawyers in America and Michigan Super Lawyers Rising Stars. She is a member of the State Bar of Michigan, the Oakland County Bar Association, the American Bar Association, the Air and Waste Management Association, and the Michigan Wetlands Association. She received her B.S. from Michigan State University and her J.D. from Michigan State University College of Law. About Dickinson Wright PLLC Dickinson Wright PLLC is a general practice business law firm with more than 475 attorneys among more than 40 practice areas and 16 industry groups. Headquartered in Detroit and founded in 1878, the firm has 19 offices, including six in Michigan (Detroit, Troy, Ann Arbor, Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Saginaw) and 12 other domestic offices in Austin and El Paso, Texas; Columbus, Ohio; Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; Lexington, Ky.; Nashville and Music Row, Tenn.; Las Vegas and Reno, Nev.; Phoenix, Ariz.; Silicon Valley, Calif.; and Washington, D.C. The firms Canadian office is located in Toronto. Dickinson Wright offers our clients a distinctive combination of superb client service, exceptional quality, value for fees, industry expertise and business acumen. As one of the few law firms with ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certification, Dickinson Wright has built state-of-the-art, independently-verified risk management controls and security processes for our commercial transactions. Dickinson Wright lawyers are known for delivering commercially-oriented advice on sophisticated transactions and have a remarkable record of wins in high-stakes litigation. Dickinson Wright lawyers are regularly cited for their expertise and experience by Chambers, Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and other leading independent law firm evaluating organizations. In some situations, there is just no winning. That certainly seemed to be the case for the oxymoronic genre of Christian Rock. Secular audiences mocked and scorned it while many Christians disdained it. Martin Luther King, Jr. described Christianity as being totally incompatible with rock or rock n roll as such music so often plunges mens minds into degrading and immoral depths. The sense of a failed union of opposites permeated popular thinking about Christian rock both within and outside the church for decades. Books such as Religious Rock n Roll: A Wolf in Sheeps Clothing decried the practice, and the genre served as the punchline to jokes on popular television shows including Seinfeld. Christian rock, however, did not crumble in the face of scorn from both secular and faith-based audiences. If anything, the heaps of disdain leveled at their art convinced Christian rockers that they were righteous rebels who were challenging both elitist Christians and the dominant culture. As a result of that stubborn, defiant refusal to lie down and die in its early years, Christian rock has endured and become surprisingly popular. The story behind the classic Christian rock song, I Can Only Imagine, was made into a movie in March 2018 and grossed over $83 million. As Christians began to increasingly embrace Christian rock, questions still arose about whether the more visceral sound of guitars and drums would lead believers astray. Christian rockers insisted that Christian music of every genre was based on the lyrics of the song, not the actual notes played on the instruments used. The idea caught on and spawned a slew of new genres in Christian music including Christian punk and Christian metal. The best of the Christian rock genre, however, did not consider itself to be Christian rock. Instead, those artists cut their teeth on the more demanding, and consequently more talented, secular music industry but continued to write and perform songs that were imbued with their Christian faith and values. They were not Christian rockers as much as they were rockers who were Christian and as a result, they both produced higher quality music and enjoyed a wider reach than traditional Christian rockers. It may or may not be a good sign that Christian rockers are leaving behind what would once have been their traditional genre behind. One on hand, going mainstream allows Christian messages to reach more people. On the other hand, it is never good for a music scene when the best talent is abandoning said scene. What the recent movement of Christian rockers away from Christian rock will mean for the genre is unclear, but it is highly unlikely this stubborn movement is going anywhere. Baxter Planning, the pioneer and recognized leader in inventory planning and optimization solutions, announced today that it has been included on SupplyChainBrain's list of 100 Great Supply Chain Partners for the 15th consecutive year and will appear in the 2018 October issue of SupplyChainBrain magazine. For sixteen years running, SupplyChainBrain has published our much-anticipated list of 100 Great Supply Chain Partners a select group of companies whose customers recognize them for providing outstanding solutions and services. Our six-month online poll of supply chain professionals requires a qualified response, asking them to nominate vendors and service providers whose solutions have made a significant impact on their companys efficiency, customer service and overall supply chain performance. This years field of nominees was competitive and inspiring coming from all sectors of supply chain management. Your company should be proud to be named amongst the 100 Great! Brad Berger, Publisher, SupplyChainBrain Baxter Planning is honored to maintain a spot as a favorite solution provider on SupplyChainBrains esteemed list and this recognition follows two customer awards granted earlier this year: the 2018 Vendor Appreciation Award from Avaya, a multinational technology company specializing in business communications technology and driving digital transformation, at the 8th annual Avaya Supplier Day in Singapore and the 2018 Excellence in Supply Chain Software Solutions award from Palo Alto Networks, a leading provider of enterprise security solutions. Earlier this year, Baxter Planning launched a new brand identity campaign introducing the tagline of Your partners in planning. Baxter customers rely on Baxters solutions to optimize their service inventory and improve planner productivity. Baxter stands by us. They do their best to understand where we are, how we see our situation, and where we want to go. Then they help us make it happen. and With Baxter, I talk with fellow planners, not just IT-trained developers. are examples of quotes used by supply chain executives familiar with Baxter during the validation process for the new tagline. Baxter Plannings innovative and collaborative approach to service parts planning, continues to be recognized throughout the industry and in publications like SupplyChainBrain. About SupplyChainBrain SupplyChainBrain, the worlds most comprehensive supply chain management information resource, is accessed year round through a wide range of ever evolving multi-media formats by hundreds of thousands of senior level industry executives. In addition to addressing the fundamental principles of supply-chain management, SupplyChainBrain identifies emerging trends, technologies and best practices, forward thinking ideas and cutting-edge solutions ~ and continues to write and report about these as they evolve and mature. Learn more at http://www.supplychainbrain.com. About Baxter Planning Headquartered in Austin, Texas, with employees around the globe, Baxter Planning was founded in 1993 by Greg Baxter, who saw the need for a proprietary solution to address the lack of planning technologies in the market. Now a worldwide leader in aftermarket supply chain software, Baxter helps customers plan billions in service parts inventory every day. The list of Fortune 500 enterprises and growing startups deploying solutions from Baxter include Verizon, RICOH, Stanley Black and Decker, NetApp, SONY, Johnson & Johnson, and many others. Baxters differentiated combination of a SaaS platform featuring Planning as a Service (PaaS) enables supply chain organizations to deliver dramatic improvements in post-sales service levels while increasing profitability and cash flow. Baxter has been on SupplyChainBrains List of 100 Great Supply Chain Partners for 15 consecutive years and recognized multiple times as a Best Places to Work in Austin. For more information, visit http://www.baxterplanning.com or email us at info(at)baxterplanning.com. Bloomberg News, The Wall Street Journal and ProPublica won gold, silver and bronze awards, respectively, in the 12th annual Barlett & Steele Awards for Investigative Journalism, the Donald W. Reynolds National Center for Business Journalism announced today. Named for the renowned investigative team of Don Barlett and Jim Steele, whose awards include two Pulitzer prizes, the annual Reynolds Center awards celebrate the best in investigative business journalism. GOLD: Brexits Big Short by Cam Simpson, Gavin Finch and Kit Chellel of Bloomberg News exposed how a handful of hedge funds netted hundreds of millions of dollars in the largest major currency crash in the modern financial system, tied to the Brexit vote. While U.K. law restricts pollsters from releasing exit-poll data before voting ends, secret exit polls purchased from leading pollsters provided non-public, market-moving data that revealed how Britons voted. This put some funds in position to earn fortunes short-selling the British pound, while others secretly bought access to polls before they were published in the press and offered trades. Nigel Farage, the global face of Brexit, gave what sounded like a concession speech of a Brexit failure within seconds of the close of voting that pushed the pound upward, ripe for the stunning collapse that pollsters and those hedge funds knew was coming. This is a great business investigative story of powerful financial firms infiltrating politics for pure financial benefit, said the judges, noting that the story was headline news in media around the world, angering citizens and prompting U.K. Parliament inquires, with much more sure to come. SILVER: The Investigation of Michael Cohen by Michael Rothfeld, Joe Palazzolo, Rebecca Ballhaus, Peter Nicholas and Alexandra Berzon of The Wall Street Journal. They began their string of exclusives by uncovering the $130,000 paid for silence to adult film star Stormy Daniels from candidate Donald Trump a month before the 2016 election. They followed up by revealing a $1.6 million settlement for a top Republican fundraiser and the exposure of Cohens D.C. shell company that he pitched as an entree to the President. Another story provided details of Cohens often turbulent relationship with Trump, who came to doubt the attorneys professional abilities and judgment. Unlike many investigative projects, this one did not begin life as a planned series but instead grew organically as the reporters amassed exclusive after exclusive. We had known a piece of all this, but just a piece, that didnt attract a ton of attention at first but these reporters got the scoops that led to a serious turns in the investigation as they kept hammering away, said the judges, who commended the tight, bullet-proof writing that prompted this serious look at Cohens role. BRONZE: Cutting Old Heads at IBM by Peter Gosselin, Ariana Tobin and Ranjani Chakraborty of ProPublica, a story co-published with Mother Jones, documented unfair practices targeting older employees at one of Americas most storied companies. The reporters combined traditional reporting with imaginative digital tools. To compete with Silicon Valley giants, IBM calibrated its human resources system to jettison thousands of workers ages 40 and over, often to make room for younger employees. Despite laws and rules designed to protect what some executives called these old heads, it denied information on their legal rights and redress, encouraged employees targeted for layoff to apply for other IBM positions while advising managers not to hire them, told some older employees their skills were out of date and hired workers back as cheaper contract workers. When IBM would not engage with the reporters, the resilient reporters contacted current and former IBM workers on listservs, job-networking sites and discussion groups. This resulted in a detailed online survey to obtain evidence that harvested responses from more than 1,000 former and current employees who also helped obtain hundreds of internal IBM documents confirming efforts to correct seniority mix. Pioneering efforts and inside-IBM documents revealed the coded language from a major American company that didnt want old people anymore, said the judges, noting that the stories led to a U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission nationwide probe of IBM age bias and the corporations service line being flooded with requests from former workers seeking details on why they were forced out. Each of the dozen years of our Barlett & Steele annual awards has taken on its own personality, so it is no surprise that major political events abroad and at home energized journalists to seek financial answers, said Andrew Leckey, president of the Reynolds Center. In addition, older people as a group this year can take heart that their dignity and relevance in in the workplace is being upheld by business journalists who want them treated fairly without age discrimination. The judges for this years awards were Dan Hertzberg, longtime financial journalist with The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg News, Cesca Antonelli, editor in chief of Bloomberg BNA and Paul Steiger, executive chairman of ProPublica. Judges recused themselves from deliberations involving their current news organizations. The awards will be conferred on Monday, November 19, at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University in Phoenix. ABOUT THE REYNOLDS CENTER Since 2003, more than 30,000 journalists have benefitted from the Reynolds Centers training. Its mission is to help journalists improve business coverage through in-person and online training and its website, BusinessJournalism.org. It is part of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication on Arizona State Universitys Downtown Phoenix campus. The center is funded by the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation, a national philanthropic organization founded in 1954 by the late media entrepreneur for whom it is named. It has committed more than $150 million nationwide through its journalism program. Bloomfield Hills Schools Joins MITN Bloomfield Hills Schools invites all potential vendors to register online. Today, Bloomfield Hills Schools announces they will utilize the MITN Purchasing Group for vendor management and bid distribution. This purchasing community and e-Procurement solution from BidNet connects 207 public purchasing departments throughout the state of Michigan. Bloomfield Hills Schools encourages all local vendors interested in doing business with local government agencies to register online with the MITN Purchasing Group to gain access to upcoming bid opportunities by visiting https://www.bidnetdirect.com/mitn. The MITN Purchasing Group is a regional online community for public purchasing professionals looking to increase efficiency and transparency for their agencys procurement process. Through participation with the MITN Purchasing Group, Bloomfield Hills Schools joins Oakland Schools, Farmington Public Schools, Southfield Public Schools, and Walled Lake Consolidated Schools in posting RFPs and RFQs on one central location. The online purchasing group makes it easier for local vendors to find access and bid on local public solicitations. As a School District, we are always looking to increase our vendor pool and competition, says Christina Kostiuk, Assistant Superintendent for Finance & Operations, of Bloomfield Hills Schools. Thats why collaboration with Oakland Schools is important. We hope the MITN Purchasing Group will help us extend the reach of our solicitations, and it can help our vendors find more local opportunities, continued Kostiuk. Vendors are able to register with the MITN Purchasing Group for free and gain access to open bids from 207 local government agencies all on one platform. Vendors have an option to upgrade their account for notification services and other added benefits for extra cost. The MITN Purchasing Group is a cloud-based e-Procurement solution built to help local government agencies, such as Bloomfield Hills Schools, simplify bid and vendor management process. These days, anything that helps to save time and cut costs is a no brainer for us, Kostiuk adds. Bloomfield Hills Schools encourages all interested vendors to visit http://www.bidnetdirect.com/mitn and register. About Bloomfield Hills Schools: Bloomfield Hills Schools is a public school district in the Greater Detroit area of the U.S., State of Michigan, with its headquarters in Bloomfield Township in Oakland County. In addition to portions of Bloomfield Township the district also serves most of the City of Bloomfield Hills and portions of West Bloomfield Township, City of Orchard Lake Village, and the City of Troy. It was founded in the 1950s. BHS has ranked among the best school systems in Michigan multiple times. About the MITN Purchasing Group: The MITN Purchasing Group is a part of BidNets regional purchasing groups available at no cost to local government agencies throughout the country. With years of input from procurement professionals, BidNet specifically developed the bid system to fill the need for a robust bid and supplier management solution for local government agencies. BidNet runs 40 regional purchasing groups used by over 1,300 local governments. To learn more and have your government agency gain better transparency and efficiency in purchasing, please visit https://www.bidnetdirect.com/buyers David Bennett marks his publishing debut with the release of Unwrapping the Gift of Mercy (published by WestBow Press), a book teaching readers how to identify the spiritual gift of mercy, and how to invest it in the body of Christ and kingdom of God. Beginning with Scripture, Unwrapping the Gift of Mercy both defines and demonstrates the Gift of Mercy as it plays out in real-life Christianity. Gleaning from the personal lives of Biblical and historical saints as well as present-day saints, it details how the believer with this Gift can be characterized, identified, motivated and used in the church of Jesus Christ today. Readers will either identify the Gift of Mercy in others around them at home and in the local church and learn how it works as a member of the overall body of Christ, or they will see their selves in this book and rejoice to know why God has made them, why Christ has included them in His body, and why the Spirit has endowed them with this particular Motivational Gift, Bennett shares. A snippet from the book: The need orientation of the saint who has been given the Gift of Mercy is to meet the Emotional Needs of the body. Every church would be wise to identify those in the body who have the Gift of Mercy and take advantage of their sensitivity, tender care, compassion, empathy, discernment, wisdom, and overall perceptions regarding the emotional needs throughout the body! To purchase and know more about the book, readers can visit https://www.westbowpress.com/Bookstore/BookDetail.aspx?BookId=SKU-000696601. Unwrapping the Gift of Mercy By David Bennett Hardcover | 6 x 9in | 396 pages | ISBN 9781973606833 Softcover | 6 x 9in | 396 pages | ISBN 9781973606819 E-Book | 396 pages | ISBN 9781973606826 Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble About the Author David Bennett and his wife Vicki were married in 1977, and have 10 children and a growing number of grandchildren. He has been teaching on Spiritual Gifts since 1989. Instrumental in planting three churches in Brazil, he is now involved in worldwide pastoral training, preaching and teaching in churches, Bible colleges, conferences and seminars on varied subjects. He is the director of Silent Word Ministries International, which focuses on reaching deaf people for Christ. Bennett enjoys spending time with Vicki, reading and writing sacred poetry. Readers can reach him at Facebook.com/davidbennett.033057. WestBow Press is a strategic supported self-publishing alliance between HarperCollins Christian Publishing and Author Solutions, LLC the world leader in supported self-publishing. Titles published through WestBow Press are evaluated for sales potential and considered for publication through Thomas Nelson and Zondervan. For more information, visit westbowpress.com or call (866)-928-1240. For WestBow Press news, click Like at facebook.com/WestBowPress and follow @westbowpress on Twitter. A canal in the Western United States. President Trump is dedicated to better water infrastructure for communities and farmers, and adequate and safe water supplies are fundamental to the health, economy, and security of the country. Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Brenda Burman announced that Reclamation has selected 54 projects to receive a total of $26.5 million through WaterSMART water and energy efficiency grants. This funding will be leveraged to accomplish approximately $167 million in improvements throughout the West. The projects funded with these grants include canal lining and piping, automated gates and control systems, and installation of advanced metering. President Trump is dedicated to better water infrastructure for communities and farmers, and adequate and safe water supplies are fundamental to the health, economy, and security of the country, said U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke. WaterSMART water and energy efficiency grants enable Interior, states, tribes, and local entities to work together to take action to increase available water supply through infrastructure investments. "Improving water efficiency is an important part of ensuring communities have a reliable water supply in the future," Commissioner Burman said. "The projects weve selected today will help communities throughout the Western United States by providing them with tools they can use to better manage their water needs." Water and energy efficiency grants focus on projects that conserve and use water more efficiently. Projects may also lessen the risk of future water conflicts and provide other benefits that contribute to water supply reliability in the western United States. Other projects complement on-farm improvements that can be carried out with the assistance of the U.S. Department of Agricultures Natural Resources Conservation Service to accomplish coordinated water conservation improvements. Funding is provided in two groups. Funding Group I projects receive up to $300,000 and can be completed within two years. Funding Group II projects may receive up to $1 million for a phased project up to three years. The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes near Pocatello, Idaho, will receive $888,818 to replace a 1,500-horsepower pump on the Portneuf River and install a new variable frequency drive pump. It will also line one mile of earthen canal to reduce water losses due to seepage. The project is expected to result in a water savings of 5,628 acre-feet per year which will increase tribal water supply and improve drought resiliency. The Mapleton Irrigation District and Company near Provo, Utah, will replace three miles of existing open canals and a box culvert in Hobble Creek Canyon with a pressurized pipeline that will eliminate water losses due to seepage, evaporation and ditch failure. They will receive $300,000 towards the $1.2 million project. It is expected to result in an annual water savings of 1,685 acre-feet each year. The City of Bakersfield will receive $743,300 to install monitoring devices with telemetry at 20 locations along the Kern River and a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition system to accurately and remotely measure Kern River diversions. The $1.6 million project will result in an annual water savings of 4,592 acre-feet that will be used to replenish the local groundwater and make more water available to users, helping to reduce the potential for water-related conflicts in the area. The complete list of projects is available at https://www.usbr.gov/watersmart/weeg/. Projects were selected through a competitive process and must provide a minimum of a 50-percent cost-share. Visit https://www.usbr.gov/watersmart for additional information about the WaterSMART program. Grand Junction drivers looking for more information on their desired models can learn with local dealership Carville's Auto Mart. Searching for a used vehicle is often a daunting and uncertain experience, as there are many variables that accompany these types of models. These can include such aspects as previous ownership, accident histories, and whether or not the vehicle in questions title has been clean throughout its life. All this information can be hard to track down, and even harder to verify. Luckily, Grand Junction dealership Carvilles Auto Mart has made it a point to offer CarFax Vehicle History Reports with all used cars, trucks and SUVs on its lot. CarFax is one of the most trusted organizations in the used vehicle market, and it plays a big role in determining a pre-owned models value for future drivers. Included in its Vehicle History Reports are detailed title information, accident and insurance history, service records, and a certified odometer reading to ensure that there are no surprises for drivers. Each pre-owned vehicle at Carvilles Auto Mart has been given a Vehicle History Report for consumers to browse through, and more information about the reports themselves can be found on the dealerships blog. Members of the public who are interested in finding a quality used model at Carvilles Auto Mart or signing off on one are encouraged to contact the dealership directly, either by phone at 970-241-5370 or online at carvillesautomart.com. The Carvilles Auto Mart team may also be reached in person at 2507 Highway 6 and 50 in Grand Junction, Colorado. "Bobe represents an exciting opportunity for CMP. They have a great product line, but equally important they have great ideas for future products. We can help by providing resources to get those ideas developed and delivered to market," said Bill Drury, CMP President & CEO. Custom Molded Products LLC ("CMP") recently announced their latest acquisition of Bobe Water & Fire LLC, manufacturer of outdoor decorative fire features, scuppers, water/fire pots, spillways and other unique metal fabricated products. CMP is a leading supplier of white goods, advanced sanitizers, pool waterfalls and innovative LED products and now adds the new elements of fire and metal to its product mix with this latest transaction. This is the fourth acquisition for CMP and reflects the companys commitment to expand its premium line of pool design features as an important part of its growth strategy. Bobe brings new artisan-level metal fabrication capabilities to CMP, as well as unique technical knowledge about the application of fire and water features in swimming pool and backyard design. Bill Drury, CEO and President of CMP, said his company recognizes the Bobe team as the experts in fire technology for the outdoor recreation industry: Bobe represents an exciting opportunity for us. They know more about the science and engineering associated with fire and water features than anyone else in our industry. They have a great product line, but equally important they have great ideas for future products. We can help by providing resources to get these ideas developed and delivered to market quickly and consistently. Product innovations from Bobe include Torrent, the newest addition from the Perfect Flame line. Torrent burners are made of stainless steel with machined brass nozzles and an engineered flame pattern to produce taller, thicker flames. It is compatible with both manual and automatic ignition systems. Bobe was founded in 2008 by the the brother and sister team of Kris Kesler and Julie Crone. They began with the commitment to evolve, develop and re-think their product offering while exceeding customer expectations. Kris and Julie will remain with the company and the Bobe team will continue operating out of the Phoenix location. We are excited to join the CMP family and contribute to their growth and product diversification strategy, say the pair. Bobe innovation and products will benefit from the award-winning customer service and extensive supply chain capabilities of CMP. Customers of both organizations will benefit from a diverse selection of current products and enhanced new product development. The Bobe acquisition completes the CMP offering of aesthetic outdoor features, joining CMP water features, LED water features and LED lighting. About CMP CMP is a leading global supplier of pool, spa and bath products. CMP offers salt chlorinators, AOP, UV, Ozone systems, water features, LED lighting and controls, white goods, VGB drains, valves and replacement parts. CMP was founded with the premise, Take care of our customers and they will take care of us. CMP brands include: DEL, Powerclean, Natural Wonders, Brilliant Wonders, Smart Sync, Pool Defender, Hydroseal, Air X, SQR, AquaEffects, Caresse, AquaElements, Flowskim and Spectrum. CMP designs, manufactures and distributes product from multiple locations including: Georgia, California, The Netherlands and Australia. CMP Products are carried by distributors and OEMs in the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, Australia and the Middle East. For additional information, please visit c-m-p.com. About Bobe Bobe Water & Fire LLC of Phoenix, Arizona, is a producer of metal water features, water/fire pots, spillways and other unique fire elements. The company is renowned in the residential and commercial landscape industry for its experience in sheet metal design, fabrication and engineering, and trusted by top architects and designers to enhance indoor and outdoor design. For more information, visit http://www.bobewaterandfire.com. Compass Intelligence is proud to announce and recognize some of the top companies innovating in the IoT industry. This year, we are recognizing 21 companies in distinct categories specific to industry, emerging technologies, and core use cases, in addition to 3 awards selected solely by Compass Intelligence. Nominations come in from companies, PR and corporate communications firms, and voting took place on October 1st. Awardee companies include Advantech, Aruba Networks, CompuCom, Dell Technologies, Farmobile, Fortinet, IBM, Inseego, Integrated Roadways, InTouch Health, IoT America, JMA Wireless, John Deere, LEC, Motorola Solutions, Qualcomm, Senseware, SkyBitz, SmartCloud, Spireon, TP-Link, Udelv, Unified Inbox, US Cellular, and Zebra Technologies. There is an abundance of noise in the industry as the race for 5G continues to hype the IoT market, and this award program is honored to recognize companies, products, and partnerships demonstrating innovation and differentiation, says Stephanie Atkinson, CEO of Compass Intelligence. The CompassIntel IoT Innovator awards program aligns with internal Compass Intelligence ecosystem market research and intelligence services with in-depth analysis into industry applications, business and government use cases, and live deployments beyond proof of concepts. The award recipients of The CompassIntel IoT Innovator Awards are as follows: IoT Innovator: Utility & Water Metering LEC (iQ IIoT platform) IoT Innovator: Facilities/Building Management CompuCom (Digital Building Solution) IoT Innovator: Agriculture & Farming Farmobile (Farmobile DataEngine) IoT Innovator: IoT Device Security Fortinet (FortiNAC product line, Fortinet Security Fabric) IoT Innovator: Driverless Vehicles Udelv (Self-Driving Solutions) IoT Innovator: Retail & Customer Experiences -- Unified Inbox (UnificationEngine IoT messaging platform) IoT Innovator: Retail & Customer Experiences -- Zebra Technologies (Savanna solution) IoT Innovator: Smart Roads -- Integrated Roadways (Smart Pavement) IoT Innovator: Intelligent Transportation Advantech (ITA-3000 Series and Surveillance) IoT Innovator: Energy Management Senseware (Energy Management Portfolio) IoT Innovator: Public Safety -- Motorola Solutions (Connected Police Officer) IoT Innovator: Home Automation -- TP-Link (Kasa Smart by TP-Link: Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip) IoT Innovator: Agriculture Fleet Management -- John Deere (JDLink) IoT Innovator: Auto Dealership Management Spireon (Kahu) IoT Innovator: Trucking Fleet Management SkyBitz (IoT Telematics solution) IoT Innovator: Blockchain IoT Solution -- IBM (IBM blockchain cloud service, SAP & Walmart successes) IoT Innovator: Machine Vision Technologies -- Dell Technologies (IoT Solution for Surveillance) IoT Innovator: IoT Chipset Technologies Qualcomm (Qualcomm QCS605/QCS603 chipset) IoT Innovator: Medical Devices -- InTouch Health (Virtual Care/Telehealth Devices Portfolio) IoT Innovator: Aviation/Airport Inseego (Ctrack Global, Asset Tracking) IoT Innovator: Colleges/Universities -- Aruba Networks (Aruba ClearPass) Compass Intelligence Selected: IoT Innovator: Rural IoT IoT America / US Cellular (LoRa connectivity & managed IoT Services) IoT Innovator: Smart Stadiums/Arenas -- JMA Wireless (TEKO Distributed Antenna Systems, FUZE, XRAN) IoT Innovator: Industrial AI SmartCloud (Situational awareness, intelligence, and control) For more information about Compass Intelligence, please visit compassintel.com About Compass Intelligence Founded in 2005, CompassIntel.com is a market analytics and consulting firm specializing in metrics-driven market intelligence and insights for the mobile, IoT, and high-tech industries. Compass Intelligence provides executive insights, market sizing and forecasting, competitive analysis, strategic consulting, advisory services, trending analysis, and survey research services. Compass Intelligence helps guide strategic business decisions and supports in the success of our clients through delivering content engagement, go to market planning, competitive positioning, and strategic advisory. About The CompassIntel IoT Innovator Awards The CompassIntel IoT Innovator awards program recognizes companies demonstrating innovative product technologies or suite of products/solutions/services that support in industry innovation, advancements in processes or operations, and leading solutions that are differentiated and groundbreaking. Note: Brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Media Contact: Leslie Outlaw leslie@compassintelligence.com awards@compassintelligence.com The product is now a Phase 3 ready asset with a novel mechanism of action that has the potential to change the treatment paradigm of atopic dermatitis. DS Biopharma (DS), a privately held biopharmaceutical company, today announced positive top line results from a phase 2b clinical trial of topical DS107 (called ADvantage) in 326 mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) patients. DS107 is a novel, immunomodulating, bioactive lipid which targets the immune activation and skin barrier dysfunction of AD by inhibiting the expression of CD40. Inhibition of CD40 in AD patients downregulates T-cell activation and downstream Th2, Th1, Th17 and Th22 cytokine production. The ADvantage trial was an international (mainly North America), randomized, double-blind, multi-centre, vehicle-controlled phase 2b study over 8 weeks of treatment, followed by a 2 week follow-up period where the efficacy and safety of DS107 cream (1% and 5%) were evaluated. Efficacy of DS107 was assessed by the key regulatory endpoints for AD; Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) which is at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline with a score of clear or almost clear and Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI). The results showed a clear dose dependent response in IGA and EASI-75 (proportion of patients who showed a 75% reduction of the EASI score compared to baseline value). For 5% Topical DS107 both IGA and EASI-75 approached statistical significance at the end of the treatment period and were statistically significant after the two week follow-up period compared to vehicle (p=0.029 and p=0.019 respectively). There was no evidence of reaching a treatment plateau after the 8 week treatment period and also the follow-up period in both the IGA and EASI scores for the 5% DS107 cream. A clinically meaningful mean change from baseline of 2.9 points with 5% DS107 was also achieved for pruritus as measured by the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). DS107 cream at doses of 1% and 5% was safe and very well tolerated. There were no trends in Adverse Event (AE) incidence rates, no differences in the safety profile between active treatment and vehicle cream and no drug-related Serious Adverse Events (SAEs). The ADvantage results have been accepted for an oral presentation at the next Inflammatory Skin Disease Summit being held in Vienna, Austria during the 12th-15th of December 2018. Commenting on the results, DS Biopharma Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Markus Weissbach, M.D., Ph.D. said: The Company welcomes the positive top-line results of this study which show that DS107 cream, with its excellent safety profile, is an effective topical treatment for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. The product is now a Phase 3 ready asset with a novel mechanism of action that has the potential to change the treatment paradigm of atopic dermatitis. Further data on Topical DS107 have shown encouraging steroid sparing potential in an exploratory study which will be further investigated. Prof. Emma Guttman-Yassky, M.D., Ph.D., Professor of Dermatology and Immunology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and DS Biopharma scientific advisory board member further commented: DS107 is an immunomodulator with a novel mechanism of action targeting CD40 that may offer a safe and effective alternative to current treatment options." About DS Biopharma DS Biopharma (DS), headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is a privately held, clinical stage, pharmaceutical drug discovery and development company, which develops new medicines for unmet needs in dermatological diseases. The compounds under development are based on a novel bioactive lipid platform. These lipid molecules have been shown to be crucial to the pathways of several conditions including skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis (AD). The Companys lead compound; DS107 is being explored clinically as both a topical cream for mild to moderate AD and separately as an oral capsule in moderate to severe AD. DS holds multiple patents and pending patent applications protecting the DS107 product and its clinical uses. Eargo, the health tech company thats destigmatizing hearing loss through consumer-driven innovation, was awarded Best Technological Innovation - Consumer Devices for its Eargo Max hearing aid, and Best Company for Accelerated Growth at this years Medtech Insight Awards. The winners were announced at The Medtech Insight Awards 2018 over a prestigious dinner and ceremony in Monaco, Philadelphia. The Medtech Insight Awards were established to honor those, who through their passion and dedication, are driven to cure, inform, minimize treatment burden, and make human lives better through medical devices and diagnostics. Categories recognize achievements across the medtech industry, from technological innovations and partnerships, to emerging markets and fast-growing companies, to standout entrepreneurs. Hearing aid company Eargo has grown their team by more than 200% across three office locations, brought two products to market and is on track to launch their third-generation product by 2019. This technology could really turnaround a difficult market where patient compliance can be a challenge due to issues with stigma," the judges said. One of the biggest hurdles of using hearing aids is the social stigma attached to it. Our goal with Eargo Max was to design a hearing aid for the consumer that was both beautifully designed to never be seen, so that we remove those social anxieties, said Christian Gormsen, CEO of Eargo. Eargo Maxs discreet design and patented Flexi Fibers allow it to sit comfortably inside the users ear canal, hidden from the outside world. This design empowers our customers to once again experience life in full, rich sound, and our team is excited to continue to grow and destigmatize hearing loss. Eargo Max was designed in partnership with Ammunition Group, the design masterminds behind Beats by Dre headphones and Square. To learn more about Eargo, and to order a set of their award-winning Eargo Max hearing aids, please visit https://shop.eargo.com/. To see the shortlist, visit: https://pharmaintelligence.informa.com/events/awards/medtech-insight-awards-2018/shortlist About Eargo Eargo is a direct-to-consumer health tech company thats destigmatizing hearing loss through consumer-driven innovation. The company brings a new form factor, business model, and refreshing brand to an archaic industry overrun by inflated prices, needless intermediaries, and complex purchasing barriers. For the first time ever, theres a brand that provides consumers with great technology, a modern buying experience, and a clear understanding of hearing health, Eargo offers an enhanced auditory experience for millions of people across America. Most Westerners are passingly familiar with Buddhism, or at least they think they are. They are used to seeing images of the Buddha on self-help websites and have probably tried meditation at least once. They are familiar with the term Zen and want to reach nirvana. Many people in the West, however, fail to grasp that Buddhism is not a monolith. Just like any other religion, there are a variety of traditions contained under the umbrella term Buddhism. All of these traditions share the same basic foundation and core beliefs, such as karma, reincarnation and the authority of the Buddha. That does not mean, however, that they do not have quite a few differences. Theravada Mahayana Vajrayana Buddhism is usually divided into two or three main schools. Theravada, also somewhat pejoratively called Hinayana, is the oldest of the traditions and is predominately found in Southeast Asia. Mahayana is the Buddhism of China, Japan and other East Asian countries. Vajrayana Buddhism, meanwhile, is most commonly associated with Tibet though some scholars argue that Vajrayana is simply an offshoot of one of the other schools.Theravada Buddhism is the oldest form of Buddhism. Adherents of the school are largely from countries in Southeast Asia such as Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Laos, Burma and Thailand. Theravada Buddhism does not believe in contemporary Buddhas. Instead, it only accepts past Buddhas and Gautama Buddha.Unlike some forms of Buddhism, Theravada Buddhism focuses almost entirely on liberating oneself by eradicating all defilements in ones life. A person who is seeking to do this will attempt to abstain from all kinds of evil, to accumulate all that is good and to purify [the] mind through the Three Trainings. The Three Trainings are the development of ethical conduct, meditation and insight-wisdom.According to Theravada Buddhism, all worldly phenomenon share three main characteristics. Everything is impermanent, unsatisfactory and lacks any sort of unique element that belongs to that phenomenon alone. Out of these three characteristics arises the idea that everything consists of specific characteristics, none of which can be referred to as a self. Understanding such ideas will help a person relieve themselves of ignorance, achieve higher levels of awareness and, eventually, nirvana.Mahayana is the largest school of Buddhism today and is found primarily in Eastern Asia. Unlike Theravada Buddhism which is largely a single orthodoxy, Mahayana Buddhism is an umbrella term that includes a variety of different traditions. All of them, however, agree on the basic tenets of Mahayana Buddhism. Among these tenets is the belief that the primary motivation in life should be helping others. This is known as the Bodhisattva Attitude and references the goal of Mahayana practitioners. They aim to become bodhisattvas, holy people who spend multiple lifetimes teaching others how to escape samsara, even though they themselves have achieved enlightenment.As an umbrella school, Mahayana Buddhism contains two of the most famous Buddhist traditions, Pure Land Buddhism and Zen Buddhism. Pure Land Buddhism tends to focus not on Gautama Buddha but on Amitabha Buddha and holds that those who achieve enlightenment will be reborn into the Pure Land with Amitabha.Zen Buddhism is perhaps the most famous form of Buddhism in the West, but few Westerners are familiar with even the basics of the tradition. Zen can be difficult to define, but it focuses largely on using meditation as a form of vigilance and self-discovery that leads practitioners to enlightenment. Zen itself is further divided into several schools, the most famous of which are the Soto Zen school and Rinzai Zen school. Soto Zen focuses on quiet meditation without anchors. Rinzai Zen, on the other hand, is known for practicing koan meditation. In this type of meditation, each student is given a riddle, or koan, to focus on while meditating. The riddles are nonsensical and meant to force each student to move beyond their logical, limited way of thinking.Vajrayana Buddhism is found largely in the Himalayan nations, especially Nepal, Bhutan, Mongolia and, most famously, in Tibet. As this is the form of Buddhism associated with the Tibetan religious figures known as lamas, Vajrayana Buddhism is sometimes called Lamaism.Despite often being treated as a third major school of Buddhism, Vajrayana Buddhism has been considered by some scholars to be either part of the Mahayana or Theravada traditions. That said, Vajrayana is distinct in many ways from both Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism. Both Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism often focus on increasing positive human characteristics and decreasing negative ones. Vajrayana Buddhism focuses on teaching adherents how to become a buddha in a single lifetime. This often involves practices such as reciting mantras, using mandalas, imagining gods and buddhas and utilizing mudras.Like other religions, Buddhism is not an orthodox monolith. There are multiple traditions within the faith, each with their own history and take on classic Buddhist theology. Adherents from each of the three traditions walk the path to enlightenment and hope to achieve that goal. What happens to those who are enlightened is up for debate, but most people are content to figure that out later. Achieving enlightenment comes first. Then, everything else will naturally fall into place. Emergo by UL, a healthcare consulting firm specializing in global medical device and IVD compliance, has just opened a new, state-of-the-art facility to support medical device research and design efforts in downtown Chicago. Chicago Studio was established by Emergo by ULs Human Factors Research & Design (HFR&D) team, which integrates the consulting groups formerly known as ULWiklund and Medical Device Usability. Utilizing Chicago Studio, medical device companies can focus on developing robust and user-centered design concepts for medical devices and related healthcare products and technologies. Establishing the facility in Chicago will also foster close collaboration between local and regional incubators, universities, technology developers and medical device manufacturers. Chicago Studio provides an 8,000-square-foot facility where clients may consult with Emergo by UL HFR&D experts as well as UL Healthcare professionals on device design issues as well as cybersecurity, interoperability, biocompatibility and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). The new facility supports product research, development and design for medical devices, combination products, wellness products and medical software such as electronic health record systems. Clients will have access to on-site HFR&D staff in Chicago as well as remote access to additional medical device human factors and product development experts (e.g., industrial designers, biomedical engineers, technical writers) based in the US, Europe and Japan. Our team is poised to help medical device manufacturers deliver products that enable excellent patient and user experiences, says Michael Wiklund, CHFP, MS, General Manager of HFR&D at Emergo by UL. By helping our clients take a user-centered approach to product design, their finished devices are more likely to satisfy user needs and preferences while also protecting against harmful and unwanted use errors. . These outcomes are critical to a products commercial success and, in the case of regulated products such as medical devices, necessary to obtaining clearance and approval from authorities such as the US Food and Drug Administration and European Notified Bodies, Wiklund adds. In addition to supporting the medical industry, HFR&D staff in Chicago and other sites help companies developing non-medical products such as consumer electronics, home appliances, industrial equipment, software, and websites. About Human Factors Research & Design Now a service provided by Emergo by UL, our Human Factors Research & Design (HFR&D) team has extensive experience helping clients bring products to market and ensuring best-in-class user experiences. We view ourselves as part of the solution for making healthcare safer and more effective while also helping clients achieve their commercial goals. UL acquired Wiklund Research & Design in 2012. The consulting practice has grown over 400% during the ensuing six years, reflecting strong demand for its services. In mid-2018, UL acquired Medical Device Usability (based in the UK). The two consulting groups are now fully integrated and delivering services to an international clientele. Learn more about HFR&D. About Emergo by UL Emergo by UL is a leading regulatory consulting firm specializing in global medical device and IVD compliance. Our comprehensive solution covers device market compliance, digital health as well as human factors research and design consulting to help you achieve and maintain regulatory and commercial success. With a presence on six continents, we can provide real-time service and on-the-ground expertise. Learn more about Emergo by UL. Harris Teeter should be incredibly proud of earning the award for Best Emissions Rate Harris Teeter was recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys (EPAs) GreenChill Partnership with three awards for reducing harmful refrigerant emissions the Most Improved Emissions Rate, Best Emissions Rate and Superior Goal Achievement. Harris Teeter earned the most GreenChill recognitions of any company this year, signaling itself as a leader in sustainable refrigerant management practices in the supermarket industry. The Best Emissions Rate is awarded to the partner with the lowest refrigerant emissions rate. The Most Improved Emissions Rate award recognizes the GreenChill partner with the most improved corporate-wide emissions in 2017 compared to the previous year. The Superior Goal Achievement award is presented to each partner who meets the companys annual refrigerant emissions reduction goal. Harris Teeter should be incredibly proud of earning the award for Best Emissions Rate, said Tom Land, manager of EPAs GreenChill program. The company is being recognized for reducing corporate-wide refrigerant emissions more than other GreenChill partners in 2017 compared to 2016, and customers should note that Harris Teeter is cutting costs associated with refrigeration and protecting the environment. Harris Teeter is committed to providing its customers with World Class Service alongside helping Mother Earth breathe easier. In 2017, Harris Teeter recycled over 98 million pounds of paper and plastic products combined; and more recently, announced it will phase out single-use plastic bags by 2025. The Companys sustainability efforts and its GreenChill Partnership are additional ways for Harris Teeter to showcase its commitment to the communities it serves. About Harris Teeter Harris Teeter, with headquarters in Matthews, N.C., is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR). The regional grocery chain employs approximately 30,000 associates and operates stores in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Maryland, Delaware, Florida and the District of Columbia. The Reserves Network (TRN), a leading staffing provider for the office, industrial, professional and technical markets, is excited to announce the latest addition to its family of services, Healthcare Reserves. Healthcare Reserves specializes in the placement of a variety of healthcare professionals with a concentration in nursing and allied health professionals, along with interim clinical leadership roles. Assignments include per diem, contract, direct hire, temporary-to-hire, project-based and travel. This new company is led by Nick Ceo, serving as division vice president. Ceo has 15 years of experience in staffing on the healthcare and post acute provider side, adding a well-rounded knowledge base of the industry. It is a very exciting time for TRN to add healthcare staffing to its already very successful business mix, says TRNs CEO Neil Stallard."Nick and his team will maintain a commitment to quality service on which our company has been built." Adds Ceo: I am happy to be a part of The Reserves Network and the launch of Healthcare Reserves. Northeast Ohio is a global leader for medical facilities and talent, and we look forward to lending our expertise. More information on Healthcare Reserves can be found on their website at http://www.HCreserves.com. About The Reserves Network Founded in 1984, The Reserves Network provides staffing services to the office, industrial, professional and technical markets. The company places nearly 20,000 employees at its more than 40 operating locations in the Midwest, Southeast and Northeast, and works with customers nationwide. This includes temporary, temp-to-hire and direct-hire placements in a wide variety of professional fields and trades. Headquartered in Fairview Park, Ohio, the family and veteran-owned company has received multiple honors for outstanding sales growth, management excellence and customer service. Invisible Fence of Raleigh joined forces with parent company, Radio Systems Corporation, to organize pet supplies and monetary donations for local animals To help provide relief to the families and pets displaced from their homes, Invisible Fence of Raleigh joined forces with parent company, Radio Systems Corporation, to organize pet supplies and monetary donations for local animals. Hurricane Florence devastated the Carolinas after hitting land earlier this month sending more than ten million people under watch or warning. To help provide relief to the families and pets displaced from their homes, Invisible Fence Brand joined forces with parent company, Radio Systems Corporation, to organize pet supplies and monetary donations for local animals. Coming Together to Fund Hurricane Florence Victims Invisible Fence, pioneer of the pet containment industry, has several dealers throughout North Carolina and South Carolina and serves thousands of customers across the hurricane zones. So, when Vance Bryson, Raleigh resident and employee at the local Invisible Fence dealership, asked if the company could help provide relief to community pets, it was a no brainer. After seeing local rescues get stretched thin of resources, we reached out to our Headquarters in Knoxville to see if more could be done. Said Vance Bryson of Invisible Fence of Raleigh. The support we received exceeded our expectations. Our passion for the safety and well-being of animals resonates throughout our entire organization. Radio Systems Corporation, parent company to Invisible Fence Brand, PetSafe Brand, SportDOG Brand and Premier Pet, instantly agreed to support the cause. The organization donated Busy Buddy toys with rawhide rings to keep dogs entertained while in crates, safety harnesses and leashes, disposable litter boxes for the cats and Healthy Pet Water Stations. Invisible Fence of Raleigh is distributing these items to rescues, shelters and adoption centers such as Paws for Carteret and Carteret County Humane Society. In addition to donating pallets of pet products for animals in need, Radio Systems Corporation also sent monetary donations of $5,000 to Saving Grace Animals for Adoption and Peak Lab Rescue. Giving Back Is a Year-Round Initiative While it is important for communities and businesses to come together during natural disasters like Hurricane Florence, Radio Systems Corporation believes giving back should be a year-round initiative. In 2018, their goal is to positively impact 14.5 million pets and people by volunteering, supporting grants, donating products to organizations and working to improve animal welfare or youth education. You can apply for project funding or request a product donation, here. In addition to giving back to qualified organizations and eligible charities, Invisible Fence Brand created Project Breathea pet oxygen mask donation program designed to provide oxygen mask kits to fire departments and other first responders. This is another year-round initiative that has donated more than 24,000 pet oxygen masks to fire stations across the U.S. and Canada. You can request a pet oxygen mask kit for your station, here. About Invisible Fence Brand Invisible Fence pioneered the pet containment industry in 1973, making it their mission to keep pets happy and safe. Owned by Radio Systems Corporation in Knoxville, Tenn., Invisible Fence predominantly sells containment, avoidance and access solutions in the U.S. and Canada. For the past 45 years, Authorized Dealers have provided professional installation, Perfect Start Plus Training and integrated solutions to safely protect more than three million pets. In addition to Shields indoor and outdoor solutions, Invisible Fence also founded the Project Breathe Program, donating more than 24,000 pet oxygen masks to fire departments and first responders. For more information on Invisible Fence or to find a local dealer, visit InvisibleFence.com or follow the company on Facebook. About Radio Systems Corporation Radio Systems Corporation is a leading developer and manufacturer of pet products. The companys headquarters are in Knoxville, TN with offices in various cities across the U.S. and the globe. The Radio Systems Corporation family of brands includes PetSafe Brand, Invisible Fence Brand, and SportDOG Brand. Since its founding in 1991, Radio Systems Corporation has grown into an international corporation selling in over 52 countries. The Radio Systems Corporation portfolio includes a wide array of behavioral, containment and lifestyle product solutions. Radio Systems Corporation is driven by a dedication to creating quality products for pets and their owners. To learn more about Radio Systems Corporation visit radiosystemscorporation.com. Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance Attendees at the Summit will gain the confidence of having a community that is working together to bolster our states economy, said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA). On October 10th, over 800 industry professionals will gather to discuss the issues most important to Georgia manufacturers at the 4th Annual Georgia Manufacturing Summit at the Cobb Galleria. Top industry leaders will network with their peers, learn best business practices, and share insights on the Manufacturing Trends to Track for 2019. To learn more, watch this video about the Summit: https://youtu.be/HFX-OQQtAcY The theme this year showcases Manufacturing Success in Georgia. Attendees at the Summit will gain the confidence of having a community that is working together to bolster our states economy, said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA). This day of collaboration will spotlight solutions that can be implemented in new ways to build on the foundation for continued success. The Aerospace Industry will be highlighted as the number one export for the state of Georgia. Mark Burns, President of Gulfstream, and Eric Rojek, Vice President for Thrush Aircraft will be this years keynote speakers. This event is for all sectors of the manufacturing industry and allows attendees to make face-to-face connections with other manufacturers, see innovative products, and learn the latest trends in manufacturing. In addition to the keynote presentations, this event will have over 30 of the top industry leaders from Chart Industries, Cloud & Wire, Decartes, KIA, Kumho Tire, Nisshinbo, Pratt & Whitney, Siemens, Southwire, and more. They will provide educational workshops for all levels of management that focus on Manufacturing Success in Georgia. EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS Disruptive Technologies Learn the latest developments in IOT, data storage, and cyber security from thought leaders in the industry. Manufacturing a Better Bottom Line Discover how to power profitability at every level of your business through lean operations, tax reforms, and currency exchange. Trends to Track in the Supply Chain -- Georgia business leaders and manufacturers will share the challenges and successes of maintaining a successful supply chain. International Manufacturing Leaders in Aerospace will focus on global market trends and building domestic and international growth through exports. Sales & Marketing Secrets Learn the latest tips in the ever-evolving world of digital marketing from Georgias top marketing leaders. Developing a Winning Workforce Learn how to bridge the generational gap through internships and what programs are working in regions across the state. REGISTRATION CLOSES AT 2PM ON OCTOBER 3RD: http://www.GeorgiaManufacturingSummit.com Media contacts that that are interested in covering this event may call Marjorie Dykes at 770-338-0051 or email marjorie@georgiamanufacturing.com to request a complimentary PRESS PASS. About the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance: The Georgia Manufacturing Summit is produced by The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA). GMA is a membership-based industry organization founded in 2008 to support Georgias manufacturing community. GMA provides monthly plant tours, educational sessions, tradeshows, and unique networking opportunities designed to help make profitable business connections for its members. The Georgia Manufacturing Directory, Georgia Manufacturing Summit, and Georgia Manufacturing Calendar are additional resources produced by GMA. To learn more about the organization, membership, and upcoming events, please call 770-338-0051 or visit their website http://www.GeorgiaManufacturingAlliance.com. Leading San Francisco Civil Rights Law Firm We work hard to publish blog posts that are timely and of interest to the public not only in San Francisco and the Bay Area but throughout California and across the United States. California Civil Rights Law Group, a San Francisco Bay Area law firm specializing in civil rights, discrimination, and sexual harassment law, is proud to announce the inclusion of its blog on a Feedspot's list of the "Top 10 Civil Rights Blogs, Websites, and Newsletters to Follow in 2018." The list was compiled by Anuj Agarwal, founder of Feedspot. "We work hard to publish blog posts that are timely and of interest to the public not only in San Francisco and the Bay Area but throughout California and across the United States," explained Larry Organ, principal attorney at the Bay Area-based law firm. Persons interested in reading the blog can visit https://www.civilrightsca.com/blog/. There, a typical post, for example, is one entitled, "What Voting Rights Do I have in the Workplace?," available at https://www.civilrightsca.com/2018/09/17/voting-rights/. The post explains that with the 2018 midterm elections approaching, California voters are looking forward to casting their votes. However, many employees dont know their voting rights in the workplace. Each year, thousands of Californians give up their right to vote out of fear for losing their jobs or missing out on needed pay. It then goes on to explain Section 14000 of the California Elections Code. To see the post on Feedspot of the top ten Civil Rights blogs, visit https://blog.feedspot.com/civil_rights_blogs/. CIVIL RIGHTS AND DISCRIMINATION ATTORNEYS WITH A PASSION FOR WRITING The attorneys at California Civil Rights Law Group see their mission as to not only be the best attorneys in San Francisco and environs for civil rights, discrimination, and sexual harassment but also to educate the public on issues of timely importance. For that reasons, the attorneys at the firm are active bloggers. Recent posts cover issues such as voting rights, sexual harassment at work, new interns, and even a post on the question of whether a restaurant or business has the legal right to refuse to service political partisans. Those who are reading the blog and have questions, or might be interested in a consultation with an attorney about discrimination, civil rights, and/or sexual harassment issues, can click up to the "contact" button to request a consultation. With law firm offices in Oakland (Alameda County) and San Anselmo (Marin County), it's easy to make an appointment for an attorney consultation. For those who live in cities such as San Francisco or Palo Alto, phone consultations are available. ABOUT CALIFORNIA CIVIL RIGHTS LAW GROUP Headed by renowned trial lawyer Larry Organ, California Civil Rights Law Group (http://www.civilrightsca.com/), is a leading employment law firm with San Francisco Bay Area offices in Oakland, Alameda County and San Anselmo, Marin County, California. Employees experiencing sexual harassment, race harassment, disability discrimination, LGTBQ discrimination, pregnancy discrimination, whistleblower retaliation and/or wrongful termination should reach out for an attorney consultation in either our Oakland/East Bay or San Anselmo/Marin County office. Leading national executive search firm Koya Leadership Partners has hired prominent executive search expert Maureen Alphonse-Charles as Managing Director. Based out of Koyas Boston office, Alphonse-Charles will help deepen the firms work across nonprofits and mission-driven organizations, building a bridge between nonprofits, the corporate sector, and corporate boards. Additionally, she has developed a tracked record of rounding out teams, including providing strategic counsel around social justice; diversity, equity and inclusion; and advancing womens leadership. Alphonse-Charles has an impressive background that includes more than 20 years of executive search experience. She is a pioneer in diversity, equity and inclusion work, and has broken tremendous barriers in the Boston area. As the first African-American President of The Boston Club, she founded and chaired its Diversity & Inclusion Committee and is continuing to do important work in that role. Maureen is a strong, determined advocate for women in business. Shes thoughtful, reflective, passionate and a tireless champion for social justice, said Katie Bouton, Koya Founder and CEO. Maureen is determined to increase the number of women in meaningful, important leadership roles including corporate board positions. I have no doubt that she will help move that dial and the Koya team will help her every step of the way. Working with talented professionals across all backgrounds including people of color and women ignites my spirit, said Alphonse-Charles. At my core, I am intent on creating balance. I aim to be the voice of the voiceless, who need to be heard but are not. I know that social justice is taken very seriously at Koya, and that were aligned in our missions. I am truly honored to join this amazing group. I love Koyas culture and how the firm fully embraces inclusion, internally and externally. Its apparent from both the work they do and the language they use, Alphonse-Charles continued. Everyone at Koya wants to place the right leader in the right role and they truly want to make the world a better place. Koya helps clients connect their larger social purpose to business success by identifying, engaging and retaining top talent. Koya is driven by the belief that the right person in the right place can change the world. This approach has proven successful as Koya has experienced ongoing and significant growth over the past 14 years with strategic acquisitions and talented staff expansion. About Maureen Alphonse-Charles Maureen Alphonse-Charles is a Managing Director of Koya Leadership Partners. With significant expertise across sectors and functions, Alphonse-Charles has led complex executive search, consulting, finance and operations efforts for a variety of institutions. Her work spans both the nonprofit and the private sectors, and includes organizations such as CalPERS, CalSTRS, City Year, Boys and Girls Clubs of Boston, Big Brothers & Big Sisters of MA Bay, YW, JP Morgan and Deloitte. Most recently, Alphonse-Charles was the Senior Vice President & COO of The Partnership, Inc., a consulting firm specializing in working with organizations in all sectors to build racially and ethnically diverse leadership pipelines, offering leadership development programs and customized consulting services to improve diversity performance in a global marketplace. Prior to joining The Partnership, Maureen served as Vice President of Talent Acquisition at City Year where she led several leadership searches. Alphonse-Charles brings more than two decades of experience at top search firms, including Horton International, LLC and Whitehead Mann Pendleton James. As an active participant in many civic, business and community affairs, Alphonse-Charles was recently honored by the Women of the Harvard Club as one of Bostons Most Influential Women and by Boston Business Journal as a Local Woman of Influence. She has also been twice nominated as a top recruitment expert by Bostons Womens Business Journal. Alphonse-Charles recently joined the Board of Advisors for the Boston Symphony Orchestra. She serves on the Boards of The Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy, Tufts University, Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston and she is an Overseer of Boston University. Maureen holds a B.A. from Boston University (Magna Cum Laude) and an M.A.L.D. from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University. About Koya Leadership Partners Koya Leadership Partners is a national executive search firm dedicated to placing exceptionally talented leadership at mission-driven institutions committed to serving a larger social purpose. Koya was founded in 2004 on a single belief the right person in the right place can change the world and is deeply committed to its clients and the missions they serve. Koya was named to Forbes Americas Best Executive Search Firms list for two consecutive years (2017 and 2018). Koyas Founder and CEO, Katie Bouton, was named a finalist for EYs Entrepreneur of The Year 2018 New England Awards. For more information, visit http://www.koyapartners.com. Maurizio Distefano Licensing (MDL) has been appointed as exclusive Licensing Agent for the fast-growing and famous Italian fashion jewelry company, Xento. MDL will represent the brand in Italy and abroad, expanding its reach in a number of product categories. Following a very positive response to a presentation at Milan Licensing Day, MDL will highlight the brand on stand F122 at Londons Brand Licensing Europe 2018 from 9-11 of October. The owners of the Xento brand are Leonardo Buccoliero and Anna Giulia Suriano. Leonardo is the chief designer for Xento and Anna Giulia deals with the management of the flagship store in Ferrara and selected boutiques that stock Xento creations. Leonardo and Anna Giulia are not just professional partners; they are happily married. In fact the course of their relationship influenced the founding of their company. At the age of sixteen Leonardo designed his first jewel. It was a pledge of his love to Anna Giulia. Then, as happens, they moved to different cities to study. They lost contact. But as in the best love stories, after 12 years their paths crossed again in Taranto, Puglia, their Italian hometown. They married in 2005 and never parted again. And this is what makes the Xento brand special. Its a brand founded on love, positivity and the desire to bring even just a moment of happiness to someone who wears or gives one of Xentos elegant and unique creations. Maurizio Distefano Licensing will aim to expand the Xento brand into a number of product categories, always respecting the exclusivity of the brand. Each partner will be selected on the basis of technical excellence and reputation in its sector, to guarantee high-quality product. Xento has created a series of style guides that will allow it to extend the Xento brand experience into various product areas, ranging from clothing and design to lifestyle. Anna Suriano and Leonardo Buccoliero of Xento said: We are proud to announce the appointment of MDL to represent the Xento brand. We are sure that the synergy between our two companies will bring Xento to an even wider audience. The response to our brand at the Milan Licensing Day was very positive and we are looking forward immensely to Xentos debut at Brand Licensing Europe. Maurizio Distefano, President, MDL, said: Xento is a brand that combines beauty, elegance and the delightful characters of its two founders to wonder effect. We are delighted to have been appointed as exclusive Licensing Agent for Xento and are looking forward to a very positive response at BLE. About Maurizio Distefano The evolution of Licensing Maurizio Distefano, an internationally accredited professional with nearly 20 years of experience in the industry, is the founder and President of the licensing and management consulting agency that takes his name. Maurizio Distefano's innovative and exclusive proposal is based on a holistic approach that allows his agency to analyze and respond to the peculiar business needs of each individual licensee. In particular Maurizio Distefano uses his skills and experience to focus attention on heavily web-oriented licensing brands that find their ideal development in multimedia activities. The properties licensed by Maurizio Distefano Licensing are: Masha and The Bear, Angry Birds, Monchhichi, Bing, Tetris, Asterix, ALVINNN!!! And the Chipmunks, Zig & Sharko, emoji-THE ICONIC BRAND, Paddington, Gigantosaurus, Hamsta, Chic & Love, Xento, Simons Cat, Gapchinska, Camomilla, Rachael Hale, Topo Tip http://www.mdistefanolicensing.com For further information please contact: For Xento: http://www.xento.it contatto(at)xento.it For Maurizio Distefano The Evolution of Licensing: Martina Canobbio martina(at)mdistefanolicensing.com As a staunch advocate for the higher education of our citys youth, it is truly my honor to host this luncheon, said Mayor Warren. Part of my administrations mission is to provide better educational opportunities for all of our residents." Mayor Lovely Warren Hosts the UNCF Rochester Mayors Luncheon, Raising Funds for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Students Dr. Henry Tisdale, president of Claflin University, serves as keynote speaker Mayor Lovely A. Warren will welcome more than 250 business, civic and education leaders, including keynote speaker Dr. Henry Tisdale, president of UNCF (United Negro College Fund)-member institution Claflin University, to the fifth annual Rochester Mayors Luncheon. Held at the Joseph A. Floreano Riverside Convention Center on Wednesday, Oct. 24, beginning at 11:30 a.m., the annual fundraising event supports UNCFs efforts to provide the necessary resources to minority students seeking a quality education and the historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) that support them. Melanie Johnson, graduate of HBCU Howard University and reporter at Spectrum News, will serve as mistress of ceremonies. As a staunch advocate for the higher education of our citys youth, it is truly my honor to host this luncheon, said Mayor Warren. Part of my administrations mission is to provide better educational opportunities for all of our residents. This event brings us closer to that goal by making additional scholarship funds available and providing HBCUs with much-needed financial support. I want to thank UNCF for their investment in our youth and our historically black institutions of higher learning. Your efforts preserve our legacy while advancing our future. UNCF is the countrys largest private provider of scholarships to minority students, helping more than 450,000 students graduate from college. Last year, UNCF awarded nearly $5 million to students from New York. As we celebrate our fifth year of hosting the Rochester Mayors Luncheon, it is vitally important that we recognize leaders such as Mayor Warren, whose support has been unwavering, said Diego Aviles, UNCF vice president, development, northeast region. Events such as the Rochester Mayors Luncheon help to keep academic programming competitive and tuition affordable, while producing the areas next generation of leaders. Presenting sponsors are the City of Rochester, Rochester City School District, Delta Air Lines and JPMorgan Chase & Co. For more information, visit UNCF.org/RochesterMayorsLuncheon or follow @UNCFNY. About UNCF UNCF (the United Negro College Fund) is the nations largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students education and development through scholarships and other programs, supports and strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding 21 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at over 1,100 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, A mind is a terrible thing to waste. Learn more at UNCF.org or for continuous updates and news, follow UNCF on Twitter at @UNCF. A modern full-arch tooth replacement alternative, Hybridge combines the permanence of dental implants with the convenience of high-quality prosthetic devices. Respected general and cosmetic dentists, Drs. Hal Kimowitz and Adam Kimowitz of Denville Dentist, now welcome new patients in Morristown, NJ, for full-arch Hybridge dental implant restorations. The Hybridge implant solution provides several benefits for patients over traditional denture appliances. A modern full-arch tooth replacement alternative, Hybridge combines the permanence of dental implants with the convenience of high-quality prosthetic devices. Whether preparing for full-arch tooth extractions or living with the challenges of missing teeth, Morristown, NJ, residents are encouraged to contact Drs. Kimowitz to learn if the Hybridge dental implant solution is ideal for their needs. The Hybridge implant restoration solution is a modern technique for replacing a full-arch of missing or failing teeth. A long-term solution to traditional removable dentures, it can replace either upper or lower teeth, and is a simple, cost-effective approach to restoring full oral function and esthetics with the advantages of implant technology. The system works through a series of five or six dental implants surgically placed within the jaw, to which a natural-looking prosthetic set of teeth securely attaches. The Hybridge option offers a number of advantages over traditional dentures, including permanence, preservation of bone and greater stability, among others. Highly credentialed, Drs. Kimowitz perform all stages of the Hybridge implant procedure, and are passionate about helping those with failing or missing teeth in Morristown, NJ, restore health, beauty and confidence to their smile. The team utilizes the latest in cutting-edge techniques, including guided implant technology, to ensure safe, predictable treatment outcomes. Committed to dental excellence in all areas of their practice, Drs. Kimowitz are proud to offer a full complement of services to meet the oral health needs and smile goals of patients in their community. Patients with hopeless or missing teeth in Morristown, NJ, and those interested in learning about their candidacy for dental implants, are invited to call Drs. Kimowitz at 973-627-3363 to schedule a consultation or visit their website at http://www.denvilledentist.com for additional information on their services. About the Practice Denville Dentist is a general and cosmetic dental practice offering personalized dental care to patients in Denville, New Jersey. Denville Dentist upholds a philosophy of providing leading preventative care to ensure patients reach and maintain proper oral health. Dr. Hal H. Kimowitz is a Fellow and Diplomate in the International Congress of Oral Implantology, Diplomate in the American Society of Osseointegration, Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry, graduate of the Misch Institute of Implant Dentistry and member of numerous professional organizations. Dr. Adam S. Kimowitz is a graduate, Alumni President-elect and lecturer at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine and founder and president of the Grassroots Dental Study Club. He is also a credentialed Fellow of the International College of Oral Implantologists and a credentialed Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Drs. Kimowitz offer the latest techniques in a variety of services including implant, cosmetic, and laser dentistry. To learn more about Denville Dentist, Drs. Kimowitz or the services they offer, visit http://www.denvilledentist.com or call 973-627-3363 to schedule an appointment. More than forty community volunteers gathered at the My New Red Shoes (MNRS) warehouse Saturday, September 22nd in Alameda to pair, bag, and sort new shoes for economically disadvantaged children and youth in Oakland Unified School District. Individual community members and parent-child volunteer pairs from National Charity League, San Ramon Inc. and Ross Stores, Inc. worked together to organize shoes for distribution to students with the greatest need in Oakland Unified School District (OUSD). In addition to new shoes, students also receive a clothing retail shopping card to go back-to-school shopping at Old Navy. Shopping for clothing and receiving a pair of new shoes at the beginning of the school year boosts the confidence, optimism and social inclusion of students experiencing economic hardship and creates positive social experiences that can have a lasting impact on building resilience in local communities. After distributing gift bags to students at Bret Harte Middle School, Nida Khalil, OUSD Family Resource Coordinator, shared, the joy that this gift brings our students is beyond words! I never thought that new shoes and clothing would give a child as much confidence as Ive seen with some of these kids, upon getting their amazing gift of shoes and gift card from My New Red Shoes. They know that no matter what the financial situation is at home, they wont have to worry and can proudly walk around with their new shoes and clothing. Thank you! "Homeless and low-income families grapple with food insecurity, making it difficult to pay for medical expenses or to find stable housing. This makes providing their children with the basic necessities of appropriate school clothing a persistent struggle," said Darbi Howard, Oakland Operations Director of My New Red Shoes. "I've spent my life working to counteract the consequences of poverty and homelessness, and I'm excited about the impact MNRS is making in the lives of the East Bay's most vulnerable children and youth." In the San Francisco Bay Area alone, more than 150,000 children live below the federal poverty line. From 2012-2016, an estimated 28% of Oakland California children lived below the federal poverty threshold according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The impact of poverty on childrens health and well-being can alter cognitive and socio-emotional development and physical health. Living in prolonged poverty affects learning and school performance, and causes physical and lasting mental health consequences. The mission of My New Red Shoes is to help homeless and low-income children look and feel confident as they start the school year by providing them with new clothing and shoes and rallying youth and adults around this effort through volunteer opportunities for individuals, families, schools, corporations and community groups. The chronic burdens of family economic hardship are difficult to untangle. Research shows that unaddressed adverse childhood experiences can have harmful, lifelong consequences. Joanne Gouaux, Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors at My New Red Shoes believes that as a community, we have an opportunity to support local childrens resilience to adversity by promoting confidence and hope. "The gift of new shoes is an exciting, positive experience for kids who persistently struggle against the odds," said Ms. Gouaux, a longtime East Bay resident. ABOUT MY NEW RED SHOES My New Red Shoes is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization. MNRS reaches homeless and low-income children by partnering with schools, homeless shelters, transitional housing programs, domestic shelters, case management agencies and other community based child-serving organizations. Each year, MNRS collects thousands of new shoe donations from shoe drives led by individual donors, community groups and corporate teams. Online donations are accepted here. MNRS Executive Director, Minh Ngo, is available for interviews about how to support homeless and low-income children through community partnerships and donations. My New Red Shoes National Office Sobrato Center for Nonprofits - Redwood Shores 330 Twin Dolphin Drive, Suite 135 Redwood City, CA 94065 (650) 241-3911 info(at)mynewredshoes.org The BridgeWave systems presented us with a compelling alternative to fiber. They provide us with fiber capacity and performance, and highest security, at a fraction of fibers cost. BridgeWave Communications, a leader in next-generation wireless backhaul systems, today announced that its Flex4G-10000 systems, which deliver true fiber performance, have been selected by the Office of the Camden County Prosecutor in New Jersey to connect their new facilities in Camden City and to interconnect the Prosecutors Office with other county agencies. The project involved installing the BridgeWave Flex4G-10000 systems in 2+0 configurations to deliver up to 20Gbps full-duplex data throughput per link and network redundancy, from the County Prosecutors new office building to the Countys new Childrens Advocacy Center, main County buildings, and the Camden County Police Departments Metro Division headquarters. To secure and deploy the BridgeWave systems, the Prosecutors Office worked closely with New Jersey Business Systems, a BridgeWave Platinum partner specializing in providing innovative, proven technology solutions to the public sector. The move to the new facilities brought with it the requirement for increased network bandwidth and redundancy for communications, case files transmission and management, evidence files, 4K video transport from law enforcement body cameras, etc. The Prosecutors Office, the second busiest in the state, partners with local, state and federal authorities to ensure the entire spectrum of criminal activity in the region, from shoplifting to murders to international narcotics trafficking organizations, is addressed uniformly and justly. The Office receives approximately 10,500 cases annually from the Countys 37 municipalities, and indicts roughly 5,500 offenders. We first considered new fiber to future-proof our network capacity, but obtaining the rights of way and laying the fiber would have taken a full year, which would have delayed our move schedule. More importantly we considered both the initial construction and ongoing maintenance costs to be prohibitive, said Michael J. Cavanaugh, Information Systems Manager and Supervising Agent for the Prosecutors Office. We also evaluated leasing fiber, but that cost was approximately $12,000 a month total for the three fiber lines we would need, each with one only a gig connection, and there were also lengthy time delays associated with contracting and provisioning that as well. The BridgeWave systems presented us with a compelling alternative to fiber. They provide us with fiber capacity and performance, and highest security, at a fraction of fibers cost. We were able to bring the network up within a matter of weeks, and we dont have to worry about meeting future network capacity requirements. The BridgeWave Flex4G-10000 is a market leader in 80GHz systems with hundreds of links deployed worldwide, including over 20 customer networks in the U.S. It offers fiber capacity and performance, dramatically lowers capital costs, provides 256-bit AES encryption for highest data security, and provides the highest system gain in the industry to ensure maximum throughput at the longest distances. The system delivers 9.7Gbps full-duplex data throughput in a single, zero-footprint all-outdoor solution and can quickly and easily scale from 9.7Gbps to 19.4Gbps (2+0 configuration) to meet future bandwidth requirements. We are very pleased that our systems were chosen as the foundation of the backhaul network supporting the Camden County Prosecutors Office, and we are honored by the trust they have placed in us," said Pamela Valentine, vice president of marketing, BridgeWave Communications. Our Flex4G-10000 is delivering the fiber performance, reliability, security, and availability they require, without the hassles, headaches, and high costs associated with fiber. We look forward to partnering with the Camden County Prosecutors Office for many years to come to continue to meet their evolving network technology needs. BridgeWave systems provide a fast, easy, and inexpensive way to extend backhaul networks without the cost, time, and complexity of new or leased fiber. In addition to our 80GHz flagship system, the Flex4G-10000, BridgeWave offers the Flex4G-LITE, delivering up to 3Gbps full duplex, and the entry-level Flex4G-1000, delivering up to 1Gbps full duplex. BridgeWave also offers Navigator microwave systems supporting the 6-42GHz frequency bands, and which are built on the companys proprietary, custom RF and modem ASICs. Navigator systems deliver features previously unavailable in any microwave radio and dramatically change the economics of microwave point-to-point links. About BridgeWave Communications BridgeWave Communications provides high-capacity microwave and millimeter wave backhaul and wireless connectivity solutions to operators, carriers, service providers, governments, and private enterprises. With over 40,000 systems deployed in more than 60 countries, the companys innovative solutions have been entrusted by customers to enable highly reliable and secure, high-capacity, gigabit connectivity while reducing operating costs relative to fiber. Founded in 1999, BridgeWave is headquartered in San Diego, California, and is now a part of REMEC Broadband Wireless Networks LLC, which has designed, manufactured, and shipped over one million radios to customers worldwide. For more information about BridgeWave, visit https://bridgewave.com/. I am inspired by the team Ravinia has put together, and their attitude of doing whatever can be done to enhance the clients value. Ravinia Capital LLC (Ravinia), an independent financial advisory and investment bank in Chicago, is pleased to announce the appointment of Kobus Van Der Zel as Partner in the recently launched Ravinia Capital Process Improvement entity (RCPI). RCPI will capitalize on Ravinias core value of bringing clients to their highest possible value before sale. Kobus will help companies discover and execute ways to improve their operations and profitability to increase both their enterprise value and ability to obtain financing. Kobus is an internationally recognized expert on process improvement who brings 28 years of expertise, including 19 years where 100% of his fees were tied to incremental monthly cash flow improvements. His specific passion is to help over-leveraged companies reverse the root causes of their past under performance and return to market share growth and optimum business value in future sale transactions. He has demonstrated multiple times that people respond to ambitious targets where a quantum leap in performance is achieved very quickly. In one case he challenged a company to quadruple monthly sales in one year which they achieved in 14 months. He is a certified turnaround professional (CTP) and the treasurer and incoming chair of TOCICO.org, an international continuous improvement certification group, as well as a frequent speaker at business improvement conferences around the world. He is the author of the book The Forces of Progress which offers a pull system for the development of people. Tom Goldblatt, Managing Partner at Ravinia says: Starting Ravinia Capital Process Improvement with Kobus is a no-brainer. We have brought Kobus into over five opportunities in the last few years when we saw an opportunity for a company to improve prior to a capital event. Kobus is the best process person I have ever worked with. It feels like magic when Kobus comes back with a report with profit-improving potentials after a one-day visit - a report that a large firm would be lucky to come up with after weeks of work. Kobus on working with Ravinia: It makes so much sense, because we share the same philosophy on getting compensated for success, instead of just hours tolled. I am inspired by the team Ravinia has put together, and their attitude of doing whatever can be done to enhance the clients value. RCPI will differentiate itself by being a catalyst for improvement, being a trusted advisor and leading the client and its people to successful execution of ambitious targets with our results-based fees the best win-win available in the marketplace. Eric Welchko, Partner at Ravinia says: Formalizing our partnership with Kobus is a dream scenario. At Ravinia, we are committed to bringing the best solutions to our clients. After working with Kobus so many times, it is clear that he is brilliant at figuring out how a company can perform better and increase profitability. Mr. Van Der Zel can be reached at (312) 375-2218 or kvanderzel(at)raviniacapitalllc.com . For more information, please contact: Eric Welchko, Partner Phone: (708) 372-0556 E-mail: ewelchko(at)raviniacapitalllc.com Realtors Deborah and Dick Miller Our clients chose us to represent them, so we chose to acknowledge our clients as a thank you by making a donation in their name. Deborah and Dick Miller, founders of the Deborah & Dick Miller Team at RE/MAX Platinum Realty, in honor of National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, have pledged to donate a portion of each closing to the Childrens Miracle Network - Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital in St. Petersburg. Childrens Miracle Network is the national charity for the national brand of RE/MAX, said Deborah. We are passionate about helping our community and sick children. Dick and I put each donation we make in our clients name as a thank you for selecting our Team to sell their home or purchase a home with us. Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital was among the first childrens hospitals to join Childrens Miracle Network Hospitals. Since 1983, Childrens Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $5 billion most of it $1 at a time for 170 childrens hospitals across the United States and Canada, which, in turn, use the money where its needed the most. These donations have gone to support research and training, purchase equipment, and pay for uncompensated care, all to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Deborah and Dick Miller have been acknowledging their clients with Childrens Miracle Network donations for the past 11 years and will continue for many more. Our clients chose us to represent them, so we chose to acknowledge our clients as a thank you by making a donation in their name, added Dick. We treat our clients like family, or, as some people prefer, like friends. To donate directly to Childrens Miracle Network Hospitals, please visit https://childrensmiraclenetworkhospitals.org/donate/. About Deborah and Dick Miller, Deborah & Dick Miller Team, RE/MAX Platinum Realty The Deborah & Dick Miller Team are the 2017 top producing agents at RE/MAX Platinum Realtys 5 offices, which include, Venice, the West Villages, Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch and Osprey. Their team coverage area spans 3 counties; Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte along the Gulf coast. Deborah and Dick have built their real estate team upon their customer service, referrals and knowledge of Floridas Gulf coast communities. They pride themselves on focusing on sellers and buyers needs, providing successful results. Integrity, knowledge and customer commitment are the hallmarks of the Miller team. For more information, please call 941-375-5000, or visit http://FloridaGulfHomes4U.com/. For media inquiries, please call the NALA at 805.650.6121, ext. 361. Gehan Homes Donates to American Red Cross ...Our efforts rely on the support of our donors, and Gehan Homes one of our corporate partners right here in North Texas has stepped up in a big way, and we could not be more grateful. In the wake of Hurricane Florence, Gehan Homes has donated $50,000 to the American Red Cross, to assist with disaster relief. Water levels in Carolina Rivers are decreasing, but record flooding could continue for weeks. Preliminary information suggests that between 8,000 and 10,000 homes may have suffered major damage or were destroyed. More than 1,600 people are currently staying in Red Cross and community shelters across the Carolinas. When we spoke to the Red Cross and learned that thousands of houses were severely damaged and many are still uninhabitable, we knew we wanted to step up and help families across the Carolinas get back into their homes, said John Winniford, Chief Executive Officer, Gehan Homes. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this storm as well as with the Red Cross volunteers, who are doing a tremendous job assisting those in need. Gehan Homes, which builds in communities across Arizona and Texas, knows firsthand the devastating effects of natural disasters. The company made a $50,000 donation to the Red Cross one year ago, to assist in the recovery from Hurricane Harvey, which impacted the Houston area. The builder repaired damaged homes of their employees and spent several weeks volunteering in Houston-area communities doing home repairs and clean up. Additional donations to assist with recovery efforts can be made on the Gehan Homes Red Cross microsite. The organization will continue to actively assist, while providing first response and support for other ongoing disasters. Similar to Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Hurricane Florence has been another devastating event, and the American Red Cross is front and center in the recovery, said American Red Cross North Texas CEO Keith Rhodes. But our efforts rely on the support of our donors, and Gehan Homes one of our corporate partners right here in North Texas has stepped up in a big way, and we could not be more grateful. This gift will go a long way in ensuring that the Red Cross can continue to bring relief, recovery and hope to those who need it in the aftermath of Florence. About Gehan Homes Gehan Homes, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, has been building beautiful homes at an exceptional value for over 25 years. Known for their award-winning designs, quality craftsmanship, smarter floor plans and competitive pricing, Gehan Homes is the 14th largest private homebuilder and the 32nd largest homebuilder in the US. Gehan Homes has offices in Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Texas and Scottsdale, Arizona. For more information, visit http://www.gehanhomes.com About The American Red Cross The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org. Gehan Homes Contact: Christina Lombardo, Director of Marketing 972.383.4308 clombardo(at)gehanhomes(dot)com ### Instruction in CNC Swiss turning at MATC takes students through the steps of setting up and programming a machine. Pictured here are students working with new Tsugami precision machine tools. According to Dorothy Walker, interim dean of MATCs School of Technical and Applied Sciences, the college expanded its capacity for Swiss CNC training this fall in response to a growing need from local employers for CNC Swiss machine programmers, setup technicians and operators. Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC), a public, two-year comprehensive technical college, will hold a free, public open house Wednesday, Oct. 17, from 3-7 p.m. in Room T129 in the T Building, 1101 N. 6th St., to introduce area students, educators, manufacturers and community leaders to its new CNC Swiss Lab. A ribbon cutting and formal program will be held at 4 p.m. MATC recently added new state-of-the art equipment to enhance training for its CNC (computer numerical control) Swiss machine tool operations course students. Six new Tsugami precision machine tools were purchased and installed at the school's Downtown Milwaukee Campus in recent months. According to Dorothy Walker, interim dean of MATCs School of Technical and Applied Sciences, the college expanded its capacity for Swiss CNC training this fall in response to a growing need from local employers for CNC Swiss machine programmers, setup technicians and operators. MATC is the only technical college in Wisconsin that offers a full technical diploma in CNC Swiss machining. Manufacturers used to rely on manually operated screw machines, said Walker. With the advent and adoption of CNC Swiss machines, manufacturers can rapidly produce complicated parts with high accuracy and repeatability, increasing their production capabilities and ability to compete for business locally and globally. We have been offering training on CNC Swiss machines for some time, but we wanted to be able to serve more students and upgrade equipment to ensure that our students would be learning on the newest technology. The two-semester program called Machine Tool Operations: CNC Swiss Turning Setup and Operation extends beyond machining basics, providing hands-on training on Tsugami Swiss type CNC lathes, highly accurate machines commonly employed in the production of small, precision parts ranging from household hardware and plumbing supplies to medical, dental, aerospace and automotive components, among others. To enhance its already robust program that provides a technical diploma and readily employable skills, MATC purchased the new Tsugami precision machine tools from Morris Midwest, a full-service regional machine tool distributor with offices in Waukesha, Wis., Roselle, Ill., and Maple Grove, Minn. Machine models include the Tsugami S205 20 mm Swiss type CNC lathe with five cutting axes; the SS207-5AX 20 mm Swiss type CNC lathe with seven cutting axes including a B-axis for complex machining and contouring, and the BW209Z 20 mm Swiss type CNC lathe with nine cutting axes. Morris Midwest, a division of Morris Group, Inc., installed the machinery at MATCs Downtown Milwaukee Campus. According to Chris Chomicki, MATC machine tool instructor, one of the reasons the college considered the Tsugami brand is because of the dual gang tooling configuration of the machines, a helpful feature when conducting two classes in conjunction with one another. A second attractive feature was the flexibility to convert the machines from typical Swiss type bar fed operation to conventional work holding mode with an optional chucker kit. Morris Midwests reputation as a trusted supplier was an added factor in the schools decision to purchase the globally recognized Tsugami brand. Instruction in CNC Swiss turning at MATC takes students through the steps of setting up and programming a machine. Students begin the learning process by editing virtual programs on tablets and progress to programming the machines for live cutting. Students who successfully complete the two-semester program obtain a technical diploma that can be applied to further study at MATC. Were thrilled that MATC chose to install Tsugami CNC precision machine tools at the school, said Corey B. Johnson, president, Morris Midwest. Working with area manufacturers as we do, were aware of the need for skilled CNC programmers and machinists and are honored to support workforce development in partnership with MATC. Specialized skills in CNC Swiss turning are a valuable asset for anyone seeking employment in metal cutting. For more information about MATC and the open house on Oct. 17, visit http://www.matc.edu, call (414) 297-6815 or email schroeml(at)matc.edu. To register for the open house, visit https://cncswiss.eventbrite.com. For more information about Morris Midwest, visit http://www.morrismidwest.com, call 414-586-0450 or email info(at)morrismidwest.com. About Milwaukee Area Technical College Wisconsins largest technical college and the most diverse two-year institution in the Midwest, Milwaukee Area Technical College (http://www.matc.edu) is a key driver of southeastern Wisconsins economy and has provided innovative education in the region since 1912. Approximately 37,000 students per year attend the colleges four campuses and community-based sites or learn online. MATC offers affordable and accessible education and training opportunities that empower and transform lives in the community. The college offers 200 academic programs; and transfer options leading to bachelors degrees with more than 35 four-year colleges and universities. Overwhelmingly, MATC graduates build careers and businesses in southeastern Wisconsin. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the national standard for academics and student services. About Morris Midwest Morris Midwest (http://www.morrismidwest.com), a division of Morris Group, Inc., is the exclusive distributor of Okuma, Tsugami, and Hardinge CNC machine tools in northern Ill., Wis., Michigans UP, Minn., N.D. and S.D. In addition to new machine tools, Morris Midwest provides engineered solutions, replacement parts, service, preventive maintenance and more. Services include customer consultation, financing, installation, training, service and disposition of retired machines. Morris Midwests new headquarters/technical center is located in Waukesha, Wis. Regional offices are located in Roselle, Ill. and Maple Grove, Minn. About Morris Group, Inc. Morris Group, Inc. (http://www.morrisgroupinc.com), one of North Americas largest machine tool supply networks, owns fifteen independently operated business units. It supplies CNC machine tools and related technology and services to manufacturers representing virtually every industry segment. Morris Group, Inc. is headquartered in Windsor, Conn., home of its founding company, The Robert E. Morris Company, which has served the manufacturing industry since 1941. Through this unified platform we can transform information coming from any media including images, forms, email, and other data-driven applications, and feed that high value information to the cloud where its repurposed for process automation. New Haven based Square 9 Softworks, Inc., announced today their release of GlobalForms 10.2 which includes new functionality developed jointly with Fujitsu Products of America for their groundbreaking fi-7300NX Network Scanner. At its heart, GlobalForms 10.2 allows users to easily create custom web forms for capturing transactional information and putting it into motion through customized process automation. By combining the use of web-based forms capture with the network independent image capture capabilities of the NX Scanner, Square 9 and Fujitsu have created a unified information capture platform that can be easily customized to fit virtually any customer experience. The fi-7300NX, Fujitsus latest network-based scanning product, is part of a centrally managed scanning platform featuring the Paperstream NX Manager which allows for the pre-configuration of the device with the users credentials, customized job menus, or scan settings. By integrating with the Paperstream NX Managers REST API, Square 9 has developed packaged functionality which can be easily added to the GlobalForms design palette to create scan-enabled web forms. This permits users located anywhere to drive a scan-enabled information capture process that unifies the worlds of image and data capture. By combining live data capture through web forms with web-based image capture, Square 9 and Fujitsu can simplify many processes that blend multiple sources of information media. Targeted applications include patient intake forms where personal data is entered through a web form for an employee health record (EHI) and supporting documentation, such as health history or insurance documents, are scanned behind it. Additional applications include multi-location franchises such as gas stations, fast food restaurants, and supermarkets where employee onboarding can be automated to ensure compliance with State and Federal law. New developments in the IT industry have caused a dramatic shift from PC-based systems to environments using smart devices and thin clients. Business applications have also seen transitions from client-server model applications to those utilizing the web, smart devices, cloud, and Robotic Process Automation. With increasing demand for products to adapt to such trends, the NX Scanner was developed to be deployed anywhere people and paper come together to drive a process through PC free scanning, taking complex IT out of the end users hands. "We are introducing a solution that adapts with flexibility to each organizations unique IT infrastructure to enable more efficient and productive capture environments resulting in simpler installations and operational cost savings, said Chief Executive Officer and President, Yasunari Shimizu, Fujitsu Computer Products of America, Inc. With the rapid adoption of cloud-based content management applications, its essential to have a strong platform for capture from local, network, and even mobile devices. Through this unified platform we can transform information coming from any media including images, forms, email, and other data-driven applications, and feed that high value information to the cloud where its repurposed for process automation, stated Square 9 President and CEO, Stephen Young. The incredible benefit this solution brings through centralized management cannot be understated. The distributed nature of modern business with the increasing need for security and compliance make this a key factor in any IT decision. About Fujitsu Products of America Inc. Fujitsu Computer Products of America, Inc. is an established leader in the Document Imaging industry, delivering innovative scanning solutions and services that enable our customers to solve critical business productivity issues and streamline operations. Fujitsu provides cutting-edge document capture solutions for business and personal environments, backed by a comprehensive portfolio of service and support programs. For more information about Fujitsu Document Imaging solutions and services, visit http://us.fujitsu.com/fcpa or call us at 800-626-4686. About Square 9 Softworks Square 9 is a leading developer of award-winning enterprise content management solutions, built to drive business efficiency through process automation. With both on premise and cloud-enabled document management solutions, Square 9 enables businesses of all sizes to take control of paper intensive processes by managing, sharing, and securing their business content. Square 9 distributes its solutions internationally through a network of highly skilled Channel Resellers from its corporate office in New Haven, Connecticut. http://www.square-9.com ### As members of the Brewers Association, Temp-Pro is helping breweries enhance the precision and consistency of their products with effective temperature sensing equipment Given the importance temperature sensors play in the brewing industry, Temp-Pro has an opportunity to contribute to brewers success, supporting them with knowledge, expertise and value, added Mr. Messier. Temp-Pro, a manufacturer of industrial temperature sensing equipment and related products, is establishing a strong reputation in the packaged alcoholic beverage industryhelping breweries achieve consistency and assuring the highest product quality. Temp-Pro manufactures a wide variety of temperature sensors for use in the Food & Beverage Industry, where companies depend on temperature control for optimal cooking, boiling or brewing. Case in point, temperature plays a crucial role during fermentation in the brewing process, requiring brewers to use temperature sensors to control it and maintain specific ranges to avoid changing the taste of their beers, ales and stouts. Since the 1970s, Temp-Pro has been supplying temperature sensors to companies that depend on the precision, accuracy and durability of its devices, many of which are manufactured to customer specifications and unique industry applications. The application of temperature sensors in the Packaged Beverage Industry is not limited to major brewery brand. Small-scale brewers and craft beer breweries continue to increase the sophistication of their alcoholic beverage production, where temperature control can have a direct effect on their revenue in a highly competed market. According to the Brewers Association, about 55 percent of Generation X and 40 percent of Millennials are drinking craft beersand the United States is reported to have over 6,000 breweries, making it a dense market with plenty of opportunity. Temp-Pro offers breweries of all sizes the opportunity to continue to grow and thrive using temperature and pressure sensor products, along with the multi-decade expertise of its knowledgeable staff. The companys temperature sensors and related devices have proven themselves in some of the most demanding industrial environmentsand thus, brewers can depend on the reliability and precision Temp-Pro offers to their beverage production operation. We are proud to have joined the Brewers Association, said Neal Messier, Director of Commercial Sales at Temp-Pro. Our experience is actively helping the breweries of the future make their mark todayso that their coveted libations remain a worthy adversary in such a competitive industry. By becoming members of the Brewers Association, Temp-Pro is making a vested commitment to an industry that plays an important role in the American economyand to the member companies that depend on its products and services. American breweries are a direct contributor to a multi-billion-dollar industry with financial benefits that trickle down to the local economies where bars, restaurants, package stores, and supermarkets play a profitable role. Temp-Pros role in the brewery industry and related sectors will continue to expand as the company engages new opportunities with both existing and up-and-coming brewers. Given the importance temperature sensors play in the brewing industry, Temp-Pro has an opportunity to contribute to brewers success, supporting them with knowledge, expertise and value, added Mr. Messier. About Temp-Pro Temp-Pro is a temperature device manufacturer based in Northampton, MA. Founded in 1972, the company has grown its operation to offer a complete range of products and services designed to serve the needs of multiple industries. Temp-Pro products include temperature sensors, thermowells, electrical enclosures, and miscellaneous instruments for industrial applications. For more information, please visit http://www.temp-pro.com. For Media Inquiries: Lisa Delliacono Phone: 407.717.9723 The Critical Relationship: Our Relationship with God behind Closed Doors: a rejuvenating call for genuine spiritual intimacy. The Critical Relationship is the creation of published author Tim Lozier, a graduate of Appalachian Bible College with double degrees in the Bible and youth and family ministries; he is from New York and actively participates in several church ministries. Lozier shares, In many ways, religion and relationships go hand in hand. Truthfully, they affect each other, for what you believe will affect who you have relationships with and who you have relationships with will affect what you believe. Every person has dozens of relationshipsgood, bad, or indifferent and everyone has a religion, which is a set of beliefs that they follow. In that set of beliefs, relationships play a key role and many times will define what you believe. But I believe that there is one critical relationship that will define your life, and determine where you will spend eternity. This relationship or lack of a relationship is with the creator of the earth and everything in it. It is because I long for this relationship with God that I pick up the pen to write. I have grown up in the church all my life, attended and graduated Bible College, and still I know something is missing. Christianity cannot be just a set of rules to follow, for if it is then it is no different than any of the other religions of the day. I firmly believe that Christianity is a relationship with God that should define what rules/religion you live out in your everyday life. Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Tim Loziers new book is a straight-talking practical guide for putting God first and center, where he belongs. Lozier invites the reader to shun the pretenses and view the Christian religion honestly and the critical relationship inherent in it. View a synopsis of The Critical Relationship: Our Relationship with God behind Closed Doors on YouTube. Consumers can purchase The Critical Relationship: Our Relationship with God behind Closed Doors at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or inquiries about The Critical Relationship: Our Relationship with God behind Closed Doors, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919. We are just at the beginning of the revolution in personalized healthcare brought on by advances in microbiome sequencing and other technologies. uBiome has gathered an exciting and extensive group of collaborators to move rapidly to advance this science into clinical interventions. -Dr. Fasano MD uBiome, the leader in microbial genomics, announces the addition of Dr. Alessio Fasano, MD, Division Chief of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, W. Allen Walker Chair in Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, and Director of Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center at Massachusetts General Hospital, to its Medical Advisory Board. Joining the board of leading scientists and doctors from around the world, Dr. Alessio Fasano will bring to uBiome expertise in investigating the composition of and changes in the gastrointestinal microbiota. This appointment will help uBiome continue its advancement in human microbiome research. Dr. Alessio Fasanos comprehensive research on intestinal permeability and the microbiota, as they relate to celiac disease, has broad implications for the future of gut health, Dr. Jessica Richman, PhD, co-founder and CEO of uBiome, said. We are proud to welcome him to our Medical Advisory Board. In 1993, Dr. Fasano founded the University of Maryland School of Medicine Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. Three years later, he founded the Center for Celiac Research, which specializes in the treatment of patients of all ages with gluten-related disorders. His research lead him to publish a groundbreaking study in 2003 to determine the rate of celiac disease at one in 133 Americans. In 2013, he was appointed Division Chief of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition and acts as Associate Chief for Basic, Clinical and Translational Research at MassGeneral Hospital for Children. Dr. Fasano is a professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and author of Gluten Freedom." About joining uBiome's Medical Advisory Board, Dr. Fasano said, We are just at the beginning of the revolution in personalized healthcare brought on by advances in microbiome sequencing and other technologies. uBiome has gathered an exciting and extensive group of collaborators to move rapidly to advance this science into clinical interventions. In addition to Dr. Alessio Fasano, the uBiome Scientific Advisory Board also includes Dr. Joseph DeRisi (MacArthur Genius and UCSF professor), Dr. Atul Butte (head of the Institute for Computational Health Sciences at UCSF), Dr. Katherine Pollard (Director, Gladstone Institute for Data Science and Biotechnology), Dr. Joel Palefsky (UCSF School of Medicine professor), Dr. George Church (leading geneticist at Harvard University), Dr. Liz Lipski (Academic Director of Nutrition and Integrative Health Programs at Maryland University of Integrative Health), Dr. Elaine Hsiao, PhD (UCLA), and other leading scientists. The companys Medical Advisory Board includes Dr. Alan Green (Society for Participatory Medicine), Dr. Leo Treyzon (Cedars-Sinai Medical Center), Dr. Cynthia Geyer (Medical Director of Canyon Ranch, Lenox), Dr. Robynne Chutkan (Georgetown University Hospital), Michael Docktor (Boston Childrens Hospital), Dr. Tiffany Lester (Medical Director of Parsley Health in San Francisco), Dr. Joel Kahn (Founder of of the Kahn Center for Cardiac Longevity), as well as other accomplished clinicians. _____ About uBiome Founded in 2012, uBiome is the leader in microbial genomics. The Companys mission is to advance the science of the microbiome and make it useful to people. uBiome combines its patented proprietary precision sequencing with machine learning and artificial intelligence to develop wellness products, clinical tests, and therapeutics. uBiomes commercial products include SmartGut, the worlds first sequencing-based clinical microbiome test, which identifies microbes in the gut for patients with chronic gut conditions such as IBD, IBS, Crohns Disease, and ulcerative colitis; SmartJane, the first sequencing-based womens health screening test, which genotypes all 19 clinically relevant strains of HPV, identifies four common STDs, and surveys more than 20 vaginal microbes associated with bacterial vaginosis and other conditions; and Explorer, a health and wellness product to understand the role that food and lifestyle can play in wellness. uBiomes platform has been used by hundreds of thousands of consumers, patients, and doctors and more than 200 research institutions around the world, including the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), US National Institutes of Health (NIH), Harvard University, Stanford University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), University of California, San Francisco, Oxford University, and the University of Sydney. Since its launch, the company has received widespread recognition including CNN 10: Startups to Watch, the IVY Technology Award, CNN Future 30, and was named one of Fast Companys Most Innovative Companies in Healthcare in 2016 and in Data Science in 2018, as well as a Technology Pioneer from the World Economic Forum in 2018. For more information, visit http://www.uBiome.com. Jennie Withers, local teacher and world traveler, published her memoir, A Backpack, a Eurorail Pass, and Some Serious Baggage, on July 15, 2018. She held an official launch in two cities, Boise, ID and Salt Lake City, UT. She wants to share her story in order to let other victims of sexual abuse know they are not alone. For Jennie, a change of setting and culture was needed to confront the abuses of an uncle and a powerful, patriarchal religion. A Backpack, a Eurorail Pass, and Some Serious Baggage is an honest, sometimes humorous, account of a young womans struggle to get to a place where she can run unabashedly through the pages of her story. Before this trip through Europe with my friends, Jeanne and Bert, Withers says, my setting had always been conservative small-town Idaho. I absolutely had to leave that environment and the people insulating me to gain perspective of the world and myself. Maybe most importantly, without this journey, I dont think I ever would have revealed or dealt with my abuse. With the help and support of Jeanne and Bert, I found a voice in Europe. Withers relays in her book what her friends said during the trip, If you believed what Ray did to you wasnt your fault, you wouldnt be so worried about what everybody else thinks. I think theres a part of you that still sees yourself as the Mormon girl who sinned in some way. Some of her own family wanted her to keep it quiet, I want you to do something for me. Dont prosecute Ray. He would be disbarred and if hes disbarred, he cant support the boys. I know you must hate him but promise me you wont go to the authorities. Her book, A Backpack, a Eurorail Pass, and Some Serious Baggage, shares a brutally honest account of how reporting becomes nearly impossible in a culture ruled by men. The book is available on Amazon and through local distributors now. Go to http://www.jenniewithers.com for more details on ordering the book or contact her through email or by phone. ABOUT JENNIE WITHERS She is an English teacher by profession, and a writer by passion. She lives, works, and plays in Boise, Idaho. She believes we all have a story to tell, and her hope is that by sharing hers, she can help individuals navigate life a little easier, and perhaps feel a little less alone on the journey. She is available for interviews and speaking opportunities. For any media inquiries, please contact Jennie Withers at Tel: (208) 272-0414 jennie(at)jenniewithers.com According to Dr Elizabeth Orozco, The prospects of having our own dental lab changes everything. We will now have our own, personal dental lab technician, and have much better communication to coordinate our dental work" The phrase dental tourism might sound at first like an oxymoron. One of the most dreaded experiences paired with recreation & relaxation but the tens of thousands of people who travel south of the border every year for affordable, high quality dental work would disagree. Many Americans (who still think Mexican dentist means just a cheap, low-quality alternative) will be shocked to learn that one group of dentists in Tijuana the Mexico Dental Network - recently added their own on-site laboratory. Considering that only about 3.5% of U.S. dentist offices have an in-house lab according to the National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL) this is undeniably a game-changer for dental tourism in Mexico. Thanks to high-tech equipment like computer-controlled carving equipment and intraoral laser scanners, member clinics of the Mexico Dental Network can measure, manufacture and cement a dental prosthetic such as crown, veneer or crown over implant in just one day a vast improvement over the several weeks and 2-3 visits traditionally needed for the same restoration. Best of all, dental work in Mexico runs 400-500% les expensive than in the U.S. How? Because of an overall lower cost of living; government subsidies for higher education which leave dental graduates with much less debt than in the U.S.; lower costs for office space; lower salaries; and other economic factors that bring the price down without any impact to the quality of practice. The dramatic price difference makes any added cost for plane fare and lodging still more affordable for people living far from the southern border. How do the prices compare? The average cost for a standard porcelain crown in the U.S. is $1,200 but in Mexico its around $300. A full set of dentures can cost up to $5,000 in the U.S. but $1,000 in Mexico. Even a basic exam which costs around $120 in the U.S. is priced at $20 for Mexico. According to Dr Elizabeth Orozco, head dentist at Dr Mexico in Zona Rio Tijuana, member of the Mexico Dental Network, The prospects of having our own dental lab changes everything. We will now have our own, personal dental lab technician, and have much better communication to coordinate our dental work. The ability to make corrections will be greatly facilitated, and the need to repeat work will be virtually eliminated. The quality of the work is improved, and the speed in which the work is done has greatly improved. Everybody wins! For more information, visit Dr. Mexico: Tijuana Dentist Center at - http://www.tijuanadentistcenter.com or the Mexico Dental Network at - http://mexicodental.network. If you are new to iQ you can schedule a demo and learn more about this opportunity. PSFK iQ - Where Innovators Turn for Research. Our professional-grade research platform is designed specifically for Retail and CX leaders who want to know whats next. Whether youre staying current on trends or need a real-time research partner to help you get ahead, count on PSFK iQ to deliver the info you need to make your next move. More than a decade after the publication of his last book, the international bestseller The Book Thief, Australian author Markus Zusak returns with a much-anticipated new novel. A family saga, Bridge of Clay tells the story of Clay, one of five unruly Dunbar brothers, who possesses a secret that could shatter the lives that the boys have built in the wake of their mothers death and fathers abandonment. Zusak spoke with PW about his two-decade journey writing Bridge of Clay, juggling notes from multiple editors, and the young adult categorization of his novels. Youve said that the idea for Bridge of Clay has been with you since age 20. Now, two decades later, the result of that idea is about to be available to readers. Much has changed in the world and, Im sure, personally since that initial idea and since you first started writing the novel. How has working on Bridge of Clay over a period of so many years affected your writing process and the story itself? I actually wrote the book when I was that age. Its almost unrecognizable now. The one thing I can say is, back then I couldnt really write, but I at least had some sort of editorial eye. I could recognize that [that attempt] wasnt it. That wasnt the book. You spend a lot of your time as a writer doing that. I mean, I had a totally different narrator at first. There was a character named Maggie in the book for six years [as the narrator], then I cut her out. Talk about killing your darlings! She was there for so long, then I realized she wasnt right for the book. I do spend a lot of time scrambling around in the dark and sometimes I do think, Gosh, I wrote part one of this book in 2009 and then suddenly its 2016 and Im still writing new material. So, yes, keeping consistency is a challenge at times. I think Im just always chipping away, taking pieces and adding pieces, and trying to make it one whole, complete world. I sort of feel like I could write [Bridge of Clay] forever. At some point, I had to say thats as good as I can get it; Im going to hurt it more if I keep going. Maggie, the character you eliminated, was the narrator? How did Matthew end up the narrator? Yes, she was the narrator for quite a while. Matthew was the only narrator who worked. In the end, you do what works. But then you need to ask, why was he the one who worked; the one who could carry it through to the end? There was a time where I tried everything in this book. I was always in deep water. One of the things I tried was cutting the other three brothers out, leaving only Matthew and Clay. Thats what happens: you try something because you have a problem, then end up with a new problem. The new problem then was that Matthew and Clay are the two brothers that are most alike. Suddenly, everything was the same color and the same shade. And you couldnt believe that the two most serious brothers would have a mule, which is so important to the book. I think Matthew is the responsible brother. Hes responsible for the family, so it makes sense that hes responsible to tell the story. Apart from Clay, hes lost the most. Hes the one who has the most to be angry about because everything has fallen on him. Hes the narrator because he deserves it. He deserves to go out and dig up the old typewriter and be the one who gets to tell Clays story. Which, in their world, is a bit of a privilege. Did the success of The Book Thief affect your writing process when approaching Bridge of Clay or other subsequent projects? Yes and no. Theres no definitive answer. I was more beaten up by The Book Thief than I thought. Finishing that book felt like such a hard thing and took a lot out of me. It took a while to start Bridge of Clayand I wasnt quite ready when I started. Then, The Book Thief started doing well. When a book does so much better than youve anticipated, so much good stuff comes with it. You get to visit countries youve never been to before and do things youve never dreamed possible. But, when the doors open that wide, a bit of darkness comes through, too. Youre going to get more bad reviews and readers who dont like your bookand people who are extremely happy to tell you so. Thats part of being a writer. Youre always having to ask yourself, how much do I want this? It wasnt a struggle to put food on the table and that sort of thing, so writing became more of a quest of will. Eventually, you just do the work, you let go, and you become yourself again. And you realize, my job is just to make this book how it needs to be. Then, it can go into the world and everyone can have their opinions. I dont feel any different personally [with this book]; I still never expect anyone to know who I am or what Ive written, so for me its still the same kind of nerve-racking experience. But, I think itd be unrealistic to say it isnt different, because I know more people are watching and waiting. I know that there are a lot of people who want to really love this book and, also, there are some people who really dont want to love it. Its all just understanding that all of that is okay and the world is going to go on no matter what. For me, Bridge of Clay is the biggest thing in the world, but its also just a book. In an interview, you mentioned that writing this book was difficult, so difficult that you even put it aside at one point. In hindsight, what was the most difficult part of writing this story? Perennial self-doubt. The most difficult thing was finding the right narrator and the right voice for that narrator. I think I had that voice all along, but I kept wanting to make it easier for the reader. Make it shorter. Make it less. But the problem then was that the chapters were reading more like chapter outlines instead of actual chapters; it was just a telling of what happened. I just kept thinking, This isnt it, this isnt it. My breakthrough was quitting the book. First, I quit for less than 24 hours, then I just rewrote the prologue. There was a totally different prologue for about six years. I knew it so well, I could recite it, but it had to go. Then, about a year later, my wife gave me a week to get back on track and be happy again. It was totally what I needed. A week went by and I still didnt have it, so I lived without writing the book for a month and half. Then, I realized I didnt want to have a life where I didnt finish this book. I dont mean for that to sound any more dramatic than it soundsI just had to finish it. I would have obviously lived on without finishing it, but I wouldnt have been happy. I started being a little less precious about everything. Instead of worrying about the writing or working really hard at working really hard, I just did the work and stopped worrying about making things easier for everyone. As soon as I did that, the whole world opened. I was writing with more joy and that started to come through. With The Book Thief, I told myself, no one is going to read this, so you should do this exactly how you want. This time around, I told myself not everyone is going to love this, so I might as well do it exactly how I want. Then I was writing from a much purer perspective, which is to do whats right by the characters in the book. This novel follows multiple characters, spans decades, and plays with chronology. How did you ensure that the details were consistent? With great difficulty. I changed as a writer by becoming a parent, becoming really interested in backstories. Were all made up of so many things. Were made up of storiesnot only the stories of our lives, but the stories of lives that came before our lives. Clay builds the bridge and its made of him, but so much of him is made of his mother and fathers stories. It is kind of hard keeping all those balls in the air. I knew [the many characters and shifting chronology] would be challenging for the reader at times, but it was how Matthew would tell the story. Bridge of Clay is the first of your books for which youve narrated the audiobook. How did you prepare for recording? Were there parts of the process that surprised you? The hardest thing for me was slowing down because I read quickly. If I read it at my pace, I would have been rifling straight through. The surprising thing was how unnatural it was; I had to slow down to such a point that it didnt even feel like me reading the book. I needed to remember that people arent reading the text and listening to it at the same time, so you need to slow down to a point where people can process what is being said. The guys I worked with in Sydney were fantastic; we had such a great week and half reading it. As the author of the book, you know where every single comma and every word in the book is, so the mistake rate was quite low. We did the final part with pretty much no stoppage whatsoever. It was lucky I didnt make any real mistakes because going back to add something new would have been impossible. We couldnt go back when reading with that depth of emotion; it cant be replicated. It was such a gratifying thing to do. I loved it, I absolutely loved it. Did reading your book aloud from cover to cover change how you related to or experienced the story? Its how I edit usually. Reading aloud helps me concentrate on everything. The big test in reading the audio was whether Id be embarrassed about certain things. If I read The Book Thief now, I see so many parts where I think, Oh, I shouldnt have done that. Its a good thing because it shows that Ive grown as a writer. When I was reading Bridge of Clay, I didnt ever feel embarrassment in terms of the writing, metaphors, or language elements. Im sure, in five years, Ill have a different perspective, but right now I know its the best I could do. Youve worked with your U.S. editor, Erin Clarke, for many years. How has your relationship evolved after working together for so many years? Were you in close contact in the years you spent writing Bridge of Clay? Do you work with another editor in Australia? Erins great because she knows when to just leave me alone [laughs]. Its probably the editors greatest skill. She knows when to say this is too much or this needs more. Our relationship feels a bit like family; really, everyone I worked with kind of became a Dunbar boy. She can just look at me a certain way and I say, Yeah, I know. I feel safe and confident in our relationship. I can ask her anything and Im not afraid to hear hard truths from her either. I dont feel injured or upset. Thats where I am with my Australian publisher and editor and U.K. publisher, too. I feel really connected to Erin; we are part of a tight-knit community that is the book. How does having multiple editors affect the editorial process? Do different editors focus on different elements of the book or writing? The big change with this book is the simultaneous publication [in multiple countries]. That didnt happen with The Book Thief, which published in 2005 in Australia, then six months later in the U.S. So, when it came to doing edits for each country, they were spaced out. For Bridge of Clay, Id do an edit for the Australian edition, then Id turn around straightaway and do an edit for the American edition, then the Australian edition again. The Australian and the U.K. edits were the same in copyediting, but, early on, the three structural edits were unique. Its harder, but you also uncover more, too. Keeping the editions consistent, apart from certain small language differences, is important. It was interesting doing the audio: I had to stop at certain points to read through for differences in each edition. Each editor has their own style; everyone is useful in a unique way. Cate Paterson, my editor in Australia, who has helped me with this book for so long, has quite visceral responses. I see her much more often; we have a no-holds-barred approach. Its often like Cate, Erin, and I are thinking the same thing, which makes things run smoothly. My U.K. editor, Jane Lawson, is great because she asks a lot of hard questions and gives tough love. Im lucky to have been able to work with three really amazing, skilled editors. Like your previous novels, Bridge of Clay is being positioned as YA in the U.S. How do you feel about this categorization? Some countries marketed The Book Thief as an adult novel; is this also occurring with Bridge of Clay? To my knowledge, only in America is it coming out as a young adult book. We talked a lot about this with The Book Thief, whether it was appropriate for a young audience. As the writer, I dont think about categories, I just think about books Ive loved. Loved books transcend categories. This time, the answer is a little bit different. I still wholeheartedly believe what I just said about books transcending categories, but it is a different book and this book does ask a little more of the reader. Thats not to say teenagers cant read Bridge of Clay, of course they can. The thing is, I love the people I work with and I didnt want to go to a different division of the publishing house. Its a book about loyalty and I love the team, so I wanted to put Bridge of Clay out with them. So [being published by a YA imprint] is more a reflection of that than anything else. Will you be traveling at home or abroad to promote Bridge of Clay? Im coming up to America for three weeks. I love visiting and meeting readers. Then Im going to the U.K. for a week, then coming home and doing a three-week tour in Australia. People always come up at signings and say, Oh, you must be exhausted! Well, not reallythis is the fun and easy part. The hard part is writing the book. Catching up with people who love books isnt a chore at all. The alternative is that no one cares, so meeting readers is a privilege. Are you working on another novel, and is there anything you can tell us about it? Im not sure yet. When I was having trouble writing Bridge of Clay, people would say If this ones so hard, just write one of your other ideas. And I would think, Thats the problem! I havent got any other ideas! I realize now that I have a lot of other ideas, but, then, everything was going into Bridge of Clay. Several parts of Bridge of Clay could be a book on their own. I dont know if Ill do something with one of the characters from Bridge of Clay. Im often asked if Ill write a sequel to The Book Thief, which Ill never do. I feel like it would cheapen the book. But, with this book, Ill just see. There are ideas there. The Iliad and The Odyssey run through Bridge of Clay. I feel like this book was the waror at least writing it wasso maybe the next book will be more of an exploration of coming home. Im just not sure; Ill just have to see how I feel in the next year or so. I have at least one nonfiction idea, too. Its nice to be in this position for the moment, but little sparks are appearing. Bridge of Clay by Markus Zusak. Knopf, $26 Oct. 9 ISBN 978-0-375-84559-8 Father-and-son authors Neal and Jarrod Shusterman didnt have to search far to find inspiration for their first collaboration, Dry, out this month from Simon & Schuster with a 200,000-copy first printing. The California residents are all too familiar with the harrowing and tragic consequences of severe drought and uncontrollable wildfires, and their home states recent, and ongoing, struggles with both fueled the premise of their YA thriller, in which a teen is forced to make life-and-death decisions for her family when a drought escalates to catastrophic proportions. Neal and Jarrod began talking about collaborating on a novel a few years ago, after co-writing a piece for 2015s Unbound, a story collection set in the world of Neals Unwind Dystology. I think that our story was one of the best in the book, and we wanted to work on something else together, Neal explained. Jarrod came up with the concept of a society in which critical services are about to be shut off, and the pieces of Dry began coming together. In California, we are constantly dealing with drought, and the possibility of the state running out of water has become frighteningly close. So that got us thinking about what could happen if so many millions of people were struggling to survive without water. Eerily, their fictional storyline continued to reflect real-life natural disasters. When we were about halfway through the book, we started hearing about the critical water shortage in Cape Town, and that the city was approaching the point where water would be shut off to residents and redirected to critical service, Jarrod recalled. In Cape Town, its called Day Zero, and in Dry we call it the Tap-Out, but the parallels are creepy. And the parallels persisted. The authors found additional, unexpected inspiration for the novel while visiting family in Savannah as Hurricane Irma struck the area in September 2017. When we couldnt find any water to buy, we had to get into an evacuation mindset, said Jarrod. We were actually living through a similar experience as our characters, which helped us understand and convey their actions and emotions. The authors agreed that the plot became increasingly pertinent as the books pub date approached. Unfortunately, Dry is becoming more and more relevant every day, Jarrod observed. It seems theres always a freak typhoon, earthquake, or drought. And when it comes to drought, Cape Town isnt alone. Sao Paulo, Beijing, Moscow, and even Mexico City might tap-out next. Its terrifying when fiction becomes reality. Neals reflections were no less foreboding. When we wrote Dry, we knew it was timely, but we didnt realize how timely it would be, he said. Its a cautionary tale, but I fear its too late to stop the cascade of events the book warns against. Even so, we need to be vigilant and be aware of what could happen. I think denial is the enemy of a sensible response. An Apt Early Arrivaland a Peek Ahead The novels uncanny replication of real-life crippling drought affected its publication datemore than oncereported David Gale, v-p and editorial director of Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers and Neals longtime editor. Dry was originally scheduled to come out in summer of 2019, he explained. When the water shortage in Cape Town occurred, we moved the pub date up to spring 2019. And with that crisis in the news, and the ongoing problems in California, we finally decided to bring the book out this month. Its fascinating to me that Neal and Jarrod wrote so much of Dry before many of these natural disasters even occurred. The Shustermans have recently finished writing the screenplay for the film adaptation of Dry, which was optioned by Paramount in a six-studio bidding war; a release date has yet to be announced. That collaboration was, in Jarrods words, surprisingly smooth and easy. It did take some time to get it right, because things needed to be condensed, all the while maintaining the essence and flow of each sequence. Its a joy to adapt something thats your own, and to reimagine the story. A seasoned screenplay writer, Neal was also pleased with this joint effort, adding, This is one of those rare instances where the script just about wrote itself. Adaptation can be very difficult, but this one was a dream! Clearly happiest when running full throttle, the Shustermans will write another YA together for S&Sbut they arent quite ready to tackle that project. Im very excited to work on a new novel, said Neal, but right now, Ive got to finish the third Arc of a Scythe book, The Toll, and I cant get to work on our next book together until that one is done. And, Jarrod added, At this point, all of our attention is still on Dry. We do have the general direction we want to go in our second novela hint is that well be focusing on another meaningful global issue. Indeed, father and son are very much focused on spreading word of Dry, which they are promoting on a 12-city tour that kicks off today and includes appearances at New York Comic-Con, the Texas Teen Book Festival in Austin, Andersons Young Adult Conference in Naperville, Ill., and YALLFest in Charleston, S.C. The response weve gotten from people whove read Dry pre-publication has been phenomenal, Neal said. We cant wait to tour for it! Jarrod echoed his fathers enthusiasm, noting, Im excited to meet readers personally, and finally start signing copies of Dry. This is my first full novel, so Ive been awaiting this day for a long time! Dry by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman. S&S, $18.99 Oct. ISBN 978-1-4814-8196-0 Author-illustrator Eric Carle kicked off a lively night of reminiscence and celebration at the 13th annual Carle Honors, held on September 27 in New York City. The event is a gala and auction that benefits the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Mass. Each year, honors are presented to individuals whose work has helped to foster and enrich the picture book art form. Awards are given in four categories: Artist (for an exceptional picture book creator), Mentor (presented to editors, educators, and designers), Angel (for an individual who has supported and advocated for picture book writers and artists), and Bridge (presented to individuals who have taken innovative approaches to broadening picture book audiences). Carle began the evenings presentations by recounting a recent dream he had. In the dream, he and Bobbie, his late wife and co-founder of the museum, were broke, and traveling in Germany, where Carle had spent much of his youth. While at a trolley station, a familiar face appeared: Jerry Pinkney, who came down the road in a BMW. He stopped for me, Carle said. While he wasnt entirely sure what the dream was attempting to tell him, it got Carle thinking about the artists, advocates, and friends who have meant so much to his own development as an artist and entrepreneur. Among Carles earliest mentors were his father, who drew pictures for me, and an art teacher in Nazi Germany who, in secret, showed Carle reproductions of modern art, which was considered to be degenerate at that time. Carle expressed gratitude to that teacher, who encouraged my loose style. He also offered thanks to his longtime editor, Ann Beneduce, who suggested that his titular very hungry character, be a caterpillar rather than a green worm, as he had originally planned. Finally, he thanked Motoko Inoue, his assistant for 25 years and current creative director of Eric Carle Studio. A rousing performance by the Brooklyn-based Funkrust Brass Band followed Carles presentation (Im usually a Beethoven or Mozart guy, but tonight Im in the mood for funk, he said), with several of the musicians donning Very Hungry Caterpillar accessories. Alix Kennedy, executive director of the Eric Carle Museum, took the podium next. Kennedy praised Eric Carle and the museum for being instrumental in the sharing of picture books across cultures and oceans. This year marks a big anniversary for The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Kennedy said, and the museum is celebrating with The Very Hungry Caterpillar Turns 50 exhibition. At 50, the caterpillars global appeal is as strong as ever. In fact, Kennedy shared, every 30 seconds, a copy of The Very Hungry Caterpillar is sold (50 million copies have been sold in all). Next to speak was Leonard Marcus, chair of the committee that selects the winners each year. Quoting Ezra Pound, Marcus called childrens literature news that stays news. He added that fostering an early love of reading [is] an indispensable prerequisite for success. The evenings master of ceremonies, author Andrea Davis Pinkneywhom Kennedy announced is a new trustee of the Eric Carle museumdelivered exultant praise of Eric Carle and his work, saying that his books gratify children who are ravenous for discovery and play a rhythm all their own, inviting: Come child, fly! Pinkney introduced the recipient of the Bridge Award: the Bologna Childrens Book Fair. Elena Pasoli, director of the fair, accepted the honor on the fairs behalf. Calling the Bologna Book Fair an enchanted place, she commented on the appropriateness of the bridge metaphor, as the book fair has always advocated for building connections between individuals and cultures. Given the worlds contentious political and social climates, Pasoli fears that these connections are in great danger. Rather than be discouraged, however, Pasoli expressed that she, and those who embrace the mission of the book fair, are all the more committed to bridging nations and cultures through childrens literature. She thanked Bologna attendees who come from corners all over the world, and dedicated the award to publishers and children who suffer because of the violence and stupidity of adults. The Angel Award was presented to the Sendak Fellowship and Workshop, a four-week retreat for illustrators (held on a farm in Cambridge, N.Y.), that was founded by the late Maurice Sendak. Accepting the honor was Lynn Caponera, head of the Sendak Foundation, and Dona Ann McAdams, director of the Sendak Fellowship. Caponera spoke about the impact of the Sendak fellowship on artists, emphasizing how the retreat and workshop allow illustrators the time to build, create, and foster lasting connections with one another. McAdams thanked our 28 fellows and expressed her appreciation for artists who tell stories with illustration. Next up, Pinkney introduced the winner of the Mentor Award, educator and author Rudine Sims Bishop, calling her Fairy God Scholar. Pinkney praised Bishops commitment to promoting literature that allows children to see themselves reflected, and to realize, looking into a magic mirror on the wall, that black is beautiful. Bishop spoke about teachers as mentors and the powerful and pivotal role that picture books have played in broadening the diversity of childrens literature. She ended by describing her elation at joining this illustrious list of honorees. Finally, Pinkney gave a lyrical introduction to the winner of the Artist Award, Paul O. Zelinskywho, incidentally, is also Pinkneys neighbor in Brooklyn. Pinkney praised the meticulous care that Zelinsky brings to his art and the golden chain of picture book treasure he has created, saying, Oh Paul, you do it all so brilliantly. Zelinsky spoke about his early development as an artist, from the drawings of geishas he created as a child living with his family in Japan, to his rather satirical depictions of life at his high school. From the time he was very young, Zelinsky said, he was creating images that told stories. After becoming a professional illustrator, Zelinsky realized that the field was ideal for someone prone to both self-absorption and the desire to withdraw. An illustrators work is a reflection of the artistbut it doesnt have to be: Its me but not me. But it is, Zelinsky said. The illustrator shared that his euphoria (and occasional anxiety) at having his own art looked at has evolved to looking in wonder at the work of other artists and writers: Look at Beverly Clearys story! Zelinsky concluded the ceremonies with a sentiment shared by many of the evenings speakers and audience members: I feel so lucky to have ended up in the best world in the world, he said. Inter religion marriages, eating carnivorous animals and wearing of clothes are still a taboo in some parts of the world. Ghana, a West African country has had its fair share of taboos over the years. Going to the sea on a Tuesday, having sex on a farm, not travelling a day after burial for some ethnic groups, appointing a left-handed or disabled as a chief are all taboos in the country led by his Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Melania Trumps visit to Ghana changed one of those scenarios. ece-auto-gen The First Lady of the United States of America, Melania Trump visited Ghana on Tuesday, October 2, 2018; her first visit abroad alone since her husband, Donald Trump took over as the president of the US. Mrs Trump visited the Ridge Hospital in Accra (Greater Accra Region of Ghana) where she interacted with mothers and babies in their unit. ece-auto-gen In the company of Ghanas First Lady, Mrs Rebecca Akufo-Addo, Melania cuddled some babies at the hospital putting smiles on the faces of mothers. The two donated a phototherapy machine and some baby items to the patients at the Ridge Hospital. On Wednesday, October 3, 2018, Americas First Lady visited a former capital of Ghana, Cape Coast where she instantly changed a taboo of years. ece-auto-gen The White House reporter for Bloomberg, Jennifer Jacobs who is part of Melania Trumps team reports a taboo at Emintsimadze Palace in Cape Coast came to an end during Mrs Trumps visit to the palace. Until Melanias visit, it was a taboo to allow a disabled person inside Emintsimadze Palace, or close to royalty, diplomatic aides told us, she writes. READ ALSO: Melania Trump visits Ghana in a simple but elegant dress However, the king of the Emintsimadze Palace felt it was wrong, inviting students of the school for deaf and blind to be part of Melanias historic moments in Cape Coast. The king felt that was wrong, Jennifer continues. So, he went to a school to a school for deaf to invite kids for 1st ladys event. Melania Trumps second day in Ghana started with a visit to the Emintsimadze Palace where she sought permission from the king to visit his land. The First Lady later toured the Cape Coast Castle mostly known as a key landmark for slavery in Ghana. This is a very special place, I will never forget; Americas First Lady told reporters at the Cape Coast Castle. The dungeon is really something that people should see and experience. And what happened so many years ago is really a tragedy, Melania adds. He accused them of impeding the progress of Ghana. According to him, "There are four institutions that are hindering the progress in Ghana Politicians, clergy, journalists and chiefs." He expressed shock at the practice where pastors have taken over the airwaves in the night and giving out 'fake' lotto numbers all in the name of making riches. He revealed that "Religion is impeding progress in this country. If you listen to the radio in the country, pastors are now giving out lotto numbers. Their preaching is all about lotto numbers. Giving two sure and promising that if you stake those numbers you will win big. I have asked that they should be taken off my media networks. The preaching the person is doing is causing more damage than the money he is paying for the airtime." His comments come at the back of the General Overseer of the Action Chapel International, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams who said Ghana is in a crisis and needs serious fasting and prayers. The renowned preacher has therefore declared a 72-hour fasting and prayer to help the country overcome the crisis its currently witnessing. "A powerful prayer is needed for a nation which is in crisis," he told his congregation. But the maverick politician in reaction to Duncan Williams charged Ghanaians to study the Bible on their own in order not to be deceived and misled by any fake pastor. "I believe in God but he says he has created us in his own image. He says he has given us everything. If he wants us to be animals he will not create us as superior beings over animals. There is this trend they put fear in church members in order to cheat them. Pastors frightening us in order to make us kowtow to their whims and caprices. Make us vulnerable to whatever they want to exploit from us. The bank stated in its 18th edition of Africas Pulse report released on Wednesday, October 3, 2018. The report stated that economic recovery in the region is set to continue but at a more gradual pace. Growth in the region is projected to increase from 2.7% in 2018 to 3.3% in 2019, rising to an average of 3.6% in 202021. It attributed the cut to the sluggish expansion in the regions three largest economies, Nigeria, Angola, and South Africa. ece-auto-gen The World Bank said Nigeria and Angola are currently experiencing lower oil production while weak household consumption growth compounded by a contraction in agriculture negate South African economy. The rest of the countries in the region have been growing steadily this year including those that dont depend on commodities, such as Ivory Coast, Kenya and Rwanda, the bank said. Albert Zuefack, the World Banks chief economist for Africa, said public debt continues to rise in a number of countries in Africa exposing the countries to new risks. He urged policy makers in the region must equip themselves to manage new risks arising from changes in the composition of capital flows and debt. In June 218, the World Bank projected growth in Sub-Saharan Africa to rise to 3.1% in 2018 and to 3.5% in 2019, from 2.6% in 2017. The bank had based its report on the pickup in manufacturing activity with renewed government commitments to macroeconomic and governance reforms Angola, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. It, however, said risks remain tilted to the downside, faster-than-expected tightening of monetary policy in advanced economies could dampen investor appetite for higher-risk assets in frontier markets. The Moroccan navy and a Spanish aid agency put the survival figure at 26, according to reports. Moroccos interior ministry in a statement on Monday, October 1, 2018, said all the migrants on board the boat were from sub-Saharan Africa without giving further details. The ministry said investigations showed that the organiser of the risky crossing of the Mediterranean sea was from Mali. Joel Millman, a spokesman for the International Organization for Migration (IOM), told Reuters that the boat was adrift since Sunday with 60 people aboard. At least 34 have drowned, it looks like there were 26 survivors. In August 2018, the platform of Migration Enlightenment Project Nigeria, MEPN, raised an alarm that over 700 Nigerians died in the Mediterranean Sea while migrating illegally so far in 2018. The group said out of over 1,500 migrants that have drowned in the Mediterranean Sea in 2018, many of them were Nigerians. Nigerian leader, President Muhammadu Buhari had said those leaving the country through illegal means are doing so 'at their own risk' He said the country will continue to repatriate Nigerians stuck abroad. The president stated this during a joint press conference with the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, late August in Abuja, the nation's capital. Outrageous? That's what almost everybody has been saying since the news broke. But the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) members across the country have been reacting to the proposed tuition increase asking Nigerians to reject the plan. However, in case you haven't heard the whole gist, here are five things you should know about the tuition fee the Federal Government is reportedly planning to introduce. 1. What led to the controversial tuition In 2017, the Academic Staff Union of Universities went on a nationwide strike for over a month. As usual, there was a talk between the union and the government and the strike was called off. But that didn't happen without some agreements between them. ece-auto-gen According to Prof. Lawan Abubakar, the Bauchi Zonal Coordinator of ASUU, the union and the government agreed on the revitalisation of the universities and the payment of arrears of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA). They also agreed that the EAA be captured in 2018 universities budgets. And lastly, the Federal Government and ASUU agreed on the need for adequate budgetary allocation to education in line with the UNESCO minimum standard of 26 per cent. However, none of these have been met, instead, the government set up a negotiation team led by Dr Wale Babalakin to dialogue with the union. 2. Who is Wale Babalakin? ece-auto-gen Dr Wale Babalakin is a Nigerian businessman, lawyer and philanthropist. He is the Pro-Chancellor, University of Lagos (UNILAG). Babalakin is the Chairman of the Bi-Courtney Group of companies and he is an alumnus of UNILAG and the University of Cambridge. Babalakin is very familiar with the Nigerian education system. He understands the challenges facing Nigerian Universities and he is one of the best analysts of the system. This no doubt explains why the FG considered him to lead the negotiating team on ASUU-FG agreements. As a businessman, Babalakin has a capitalist view about funding education in Nigeria. He believes the government needs to create an enabling environment for private investors to provide the required infrastructure for tertiary institutions. He once said: There have been serious plans for education to be free at all levels. My position is that if theres a choice between free education and good education at all levels, I choose the latter''. Everyone knows good education costs a lot of money. And for Nigerian students to enjoy it, their parents have to pay because according to him, it costs $3000 to train one undergraduate properly in Nigeria. 3. Education Bank In a country where the minimum wage is N18,000, paying N350,000 for tuition in Federal Universities will be difficult for most parents. The government is aware of this and that is why Education Bank is part of the package of the proposed school fee. The Education Bank will provide indigent students with scholarship loans throughout their academic programs in the Universities. Hope that sounds interesting? 4. So, how much exactly is FG proposing? ece-auto-gen You might have heard or read that the proposed tuition fee for undergraduates in Federal Universities would be N350,000. That is true, but some students may have to pay much more than that because N350k is just the minimum. According to Prof Lawan Abubakar, the Bauchi ASUU Zonal Coordinator, undergraduates in Faculty of Sciences will up to N500,000. He (Babalakin) proposed a minimum of N350, 000 as tuition fee for undergraduate students of Arts and Humanities, and N500,000, for those in Sciences, Abubakar said. 5. Why ASUU rejects the tuition proposal ece-auto-gen The members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities all over the country have vehemently rejected both the tuition scheme and the education bank the government is introducing to ease the scheme. The Union have some reasons for rejecting the scheme. According to Prof Lawan Abubakar, the union turned down the idea because ''not all the students will have access to loan, and for those who will access the loan, it is the same parents who served as sureties and subsequently pay back the loan, considering the very high rate of unemployment in the country. ALSO READ: More lecturers disagree with FG on education bank scheme Supposing that the student is able to secure a job after graduation, he cannot start a life while paying back a loan of 4 to 6 million Naira, as the case may be. The Disc Jockey and billionaire heiress had taken to her Twitter page on Monday, October 1, 2018, where she tweeted about the Independence Day celebration. "Today, we experience the joy and pride of being called NIGERIANS! The greatest nation. #NigeriaAt58 #Nierian independence day " she tweeted. It didn't take long before she began to receive comments over the tweet. Just like a lot of Nigerians who weren't happy about the situation in the country, they probably didn't know she wasn't the head of the country as they took out their frustrations on Cuppy. For some other fans, they appreciated her over her courage and even gave her thumbs up over her Independence Day portrait. This is not the first time DJ Cuppy will be causing a lot of commotion on social media as we can all recall that a few weeks ago when she revealed why she is no longer a feminist, it didn't go down well with a lot of people. ece-auto-gen Find out why DJ Cuppy says she stopped being a feminist ece-auto-gen DJ Cuppy has revealed why she stopped being a feminist and concentrated on just making herself a better entertainer. The billionaire heiress revealed this while granting an interview with City FM. According to her, she didn't really understand the idea of being a feminist after a while hence her reason for opting out of the idea. "I use to consider myself a feminist until I realised that I really didn't understand it. I don't like people who are hypocrites. So people are out there speaking about women rights but behind closed doors, they are doing crazy things. "I just feel like I would never out as a feminist because am in a male-dominated industry so I have certain scenarios I have to I deal with men on a day to day bases and I realised that they are always going to think they are better than women. I don't believe being a feminist will change things. Monday night is one that regular concert goers have come to expect from Brymo, while for first timers, it was an experience that was worth it and one they cannot wait to enjoy again. Off the back of his sixth body of work, ''Oso'' and a standout performance in UK less than a week ago, it was the turn of Lagos to experience Brymo in his elements and the ground yet again was Freedom Park, Ikoyi, Lagos. 'Organized Chaos' is Brymo's annual headline concert, devoted to his core fans and the night opened with performances from the 'Wura Samba' band led by its percussionist, an indigenous group that thrilled the audience in rich Yoruba music setting the mood for what was to come on the night. Rock artist, Clay also featured with an impressive set getting the crowd to sing along as she performed 'Ogadisinma', while the eccentric alternative artist, Ibeji wearing his famed Afro and dark shades took the crowd on a journey across his catalogue of songs. As the clouds darkened the more and the heavens opened up in shutters, the crowd began to get uneasy, they had gathered here to watch a magician cast his spell and only his best could satiate their thirst. Interacting with some of his fans at the venue, one called him a 'god' among musicians and Brymo seems to relish the adulation, or how else do you explain a period where his appearance on stage is delayed and the fans like a pre-planned ochestra, began to scream out his name multiple times, before breaking into the hit song, 'Fe Mi'. This was the moment that sparked his arrival as Brymo cladded in an all white outfit took to the stage to justify why thousands had gathered at his request. Flanked by two dancers and his band, Brymo opened his set performing 'Down', ''Something dey go down down'', to which the crowd sang along passionately. The songs were not dance anthems, but it was magical to watch the young crowd lost in the moment, dancing, smiling and chorusing every line of the songs. Immediately after the first song, Brymo paused to interact with the crowd, many had gone from fans to becoming family as he identified faces and even called some by names, promising them a night to remember, ''We are going to injure ourselves'', to which the crowd roared excitedly. For the next hour, Brymo ran through some fan favorites from his projects, old and new, including gems like ''Alajo Shomolu', Prick No Get Shoulder' and 'Banuso.' With Brymo on stage, there is a desire not just to perform, but to connect, spiritually, intimately and emotionally and it is performances like the one witnessed on the night that defines the artist he is and the one he will be remembered for. This company article has been removed. The tech company, which only a few months ago integrated an SOS button into its platform to allow drivers get emergency responses in emergency situations has said that its FlexiCare cover, which is a tailor-made driver-partner health plan, will help provide security for its drivers and serve as a motivation for them to provide better service. So far, over 3000 driver partners have qualified and have had the FlexiCare cover paid for by Taxify. Currently, Millions of naira in claims have already been used by these drivers and their families undergoing various forms of medical care across Lagos. Dependents of drivers are big beneficiaries of this cover as the scheme extends beyond the drivers to also cover one dependant. Already, wives of drivers and female driver-partners are taking advantage of the antenatal benefits available on the scheme. Access to eyecare is another major impact point of the health cover. With vision widely recognised as the most important source of information while driving, access to corrective lenses, periodic eye tests and awareness about vision care will ensure better eye care practices and improved safety on roads. The FlexiCare health cover is provided in partnership with AutoGenis and Reliance HMO. To be eligible, drivers are required to meet a target number of completed trips each month. Every driver-partner that meets their target automatically qualifies for the insurance cover in the following month. The cover also takes situations where drivers and their dependants are unable to physically go into a hospital into account. According to Taxifys Operations Manager, Femi Akin-Laguda, Drivers have 24/7, around the clock access to medical professionals. They can go on the Reliance HMO app, speak to a doctor, describe symptoms theyre having and get instant diagnosis and prescription. FlexiCare also offers constant education via newsletters and articles focused on educating drivers on preventive measures to take to avoid deterioration in health. This cover marks the first time an app based transportation company has fully covered the cost of health insurance for its independent workers in Nigeria. When asked what inspired the decision to provide health care benefits to its driver-partners, Akin-Laguda had this to say: Your health is your wealth. At Taxify, we fundamentally believe in treating drivers better so they can in turn treat our riders better and provide top notch ride experiences. In the line of work that drivers do, its easy to get obsessed with moving passengers and making money and neglect your health. We are very conscious that health is the ultimate fuel that keeps drivers on the road and keeps the city moving. We also know that health care comes at a price that is very often steep, so FlexiCare is here to lift this burden not only for the drivers themselves but also for their dependants. Fashion stores in Nigeria are a dime a dozen but all pale in comparison to the the behemoth of luxury fashion here in the heart of Lagos; ALARA. ALARA is a luxury lifestyle brand dedicated to contemporary art, design, fashion, cuisine and culture. ALARA which means wondrous performer in Yoruba is the creation of Reni Folawiyo, a businesswomen and style icon in her own right. The flagship concept store which features inspirational objects of African origin alongside international design, was designed by global practice Adjaye Associates. It features an inspired exhibition-style retail space, a restaurant and terrace lounge, and an art gallery. Arguably, the most unique building in Lagos, the store in itself is a work of art and sets the tone for what can be found inside. From the minute one steps into ALARA, there is a profound sense of opulence underpinned by a warm familiarity. To visit ALARA is to come home.To see all of our favourite designers, explore talented Africa artisans and bask in the beauty of fashion, culture and lifestyle right in our back yard. Mrs F, as she's affectionately known, has provided a huge platform for young pan-African designers and creatives to display their work alongside highly-respected international brands. In doing so, she has let them know that their work is just as important and deserves exactly the same exposure. Whilst it stocks international designers, what makes ALARA so special is they put the focus on encouraging and celebrating celebrate homegrown talent and supporting the designers and artisans that reside right here in Africa. Take for instance, the Emerge ALARA awards which are currently taking place. According to their Instagram: The Emerge ALARA Awards are an Africa wide search for exceptional talent in Design, Art, Fashion and Cuisine.Starting with Emerge ALARA- The Fashion Edition this year, the most promising young designer and fashion media creative will be selected and offered the opportunity to present a retail collection and exhibition respectively, as well as receive mentorship from a carefully selected team of advisors. From initiatives like Emerge to trunk shows, shopping parties and launches, Alara is a hub of activity and so much more than a retail store, it's a home away from home for the Nigerian creative community. Reni Folawiyo has had the honour of being including in Business of Fashion's 500 list for the last 4 years. Her profile reads: Nigerian businesswoman Reni Folawiyo is the founder of Alara, a concept store in the heart of Victoria Island, Lagos that seeks to redefine luxury fashion for Nigerians. Meaning "wondrous performer" in Yoruba, Alara is rapidly becoming a fashion destination for Nigerians and westerners alike. It offers a mix of fashion, art and design in a similar style to famous concept stores like Paris Colette, Londons Dover Street Market and Milans 10 Corso Como. It stocks a range of western designers including Stella McCartney, Dries Van Noten , Marni and Valentino. Alongside this, Folawiyo looks to champion Nigerian design, stocking the work of Maki Oh, Lanre de Silva Ajayi and Tiffany Amber. Alara has the potential to be a beacon for other fashion retailers and a centre for gravity for global luxury brands already beginning to cluster around a nascent fashion district in Lagos. Prior to the store opening Nigerians had tended to shop abroad for luxury purchases, I felt that we needed something iconic that would change our city, change the way we see ourselves and also change the way the world sees us. Folawiyo told the Wall Street Journal. Folawiyo sees the Alara Woman as someone who is a high-powered global citizen. With the store, she aims to establish a contemporary visual language for African luxury. The signature 1400m long bridge that links the rest of the country to the South Eastern part is the Niger Bridge, popularly known as the Onitsha bridge. It was constructed between 1964 and 1965, and commissioned by the then Prime Minister late Alhaji Tafawa Balewa and opened for traffic in December 1965. This commissioning of the bridge was the last public function of the Prime Minister before his assassination. Onitsha in Anambra state has one of the biggest markets in the country and goods and people have to be transported. People travelled smoothly by road until they reach Asaba, Delta, which was separated from Onitsha by the might river Niger. Hence, The Niger Bridge is considered to be of Nigerias most economically crucial bridges. After construction in 1965, the bridge was 8420 ft. with a carriageway of 36 feet centre-truss and a pedestrian walkway on both sides of the carriageway. However, during the Nigerian civil war (1967 - 1970), retreating Biafran soldiers destroyed the Niger Bridge in order to halt and trap Nigerian military at the other side of the river. So, how were people travelling before the construction of the bridge? According to Punch, the meeting held behind closed doors on Wednesday, September 3, 2018. Buharis role in Lagos primaries The Lagos state Governorship primaries was held on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 amidst controversies. The National Working Committee (NWC) panel cancelled the primaries citing some irregularities and calling for another round of elections. The NWC was however countered by the APC national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole who backed the Lagos primaries and its results. A source said Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo asked Oshiomhole to respect the first set of results that declared Babajide Sanwo-Olu winner. ALSO READ: Tinubu explains why he fell out with Ambode After multiple briefings and monitoring of the election in Lagos, Abuja advised the leadership of the APC to stand with the people and respect their wishes. "President Buhari also requested for periodic briefings throughout the day of the primary and at a point, invited Chairman Oshiomhole to brief him on Lagos and other primaries, the source added. Onyeama made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) after the conclusion of UNGA 2018 in New York. The UNGA 2018 has been extremely positive for Nigeria, Mr president addressed the General Assembly on various issues; his address shows Nigerias engagement with global issues and portrayed Nigeria as a responsible global partner. His address was very straight forward and shows Nigeria as an important global player, follow up on that was the meeting with the AU and New Partnership for African Development (NEPAD). There, Mr President was a keynote speaker talking on corruption and the fight against corruption. These two events showed that Mr President is now an accepted recognised global icon in the fight against corruption and those events were well attended and his statement were well received, he said. Onyeama said that the president also engaged at a regional African level and showed himself to be a leader of the continent. On the global stage, he also made a very good presentation and cemented the Nigeria global status and that of himself. It was really a very successful outing for Mr President and Nigeria, he said. This, according to him, portrays Nigeria and Buharis government as a very responsible and projects positive image of the country and of Nigerians. The president also showed the world leaders that he is concerned with issues that will promote peace and prosperity in the world. He also talked on global fight against terrorism and issues on climate change, all those issues that we need to address to get the peaceful world that we all crave for, he said. Onyeama said commended Buharis meeting with Nigerians in the Diaspora in the U.S and described it as a great meeting that showed the kind of respect and the affection that Nigerians abroad have for him. He said that the Diasporas came out in a very large number from all works of lives and professions to show their support for Mr presidents efforts to lift Nigeria and Nigerians out of poverty. He said that the presidents the bilateral meeting with President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo was also very successful. It was at this meeting that Akufo-Addo announced that the foreigner shops shut in Ghana were to be reopened and that Nigerian traders were welcome in Ghana as ECOWAS citizens; that the laws passed were not targeted at Nigerians. Sharibu was kidnapped by Boko Haram along with her school mates from Dapchi secondary school in Yobe state on February 19, 2018. She was held back after others were released because she refused to denounce Christianity. The President, told the school girls mother, Rebecca Sharibu that the government will do all it can to ensure her daughter re-unites with the family. A statement issued on Twitter from the handle @MBuhari reads: Today I spoke with Mrs Rebecca Sharibu, to reiterate our determination to bring her daughter Leah back home safely. The thoughts & prayers of all Nigerians are with the Sharibu family, & the families of all those still in captivity. We will do everything we can to bring them back. Audio message to Buhari In August 2018, Leah Sheribu, in an audio message obtained by The Cable, called on Buhari to save her. She said "I am Leah Sharibu, the girl that was abducted in GGSS Dapchi. I am calling on the government and people of goodwill to intervene to get me out of my current situation. "I also plead to the members of the public to help my mother, my father, my younger brother and relatives. Kindly help me out of my predicament. I am begging you to treat me with compassion, I am calling on the government, particularly, the president to pity me and get me out of this serious situation. Thank you." To paraphrase the great man of letters, Chinua Achebe, the rain started beating Ambode as soon as he took over the reins from his predecessor Babatunde Fashola. Fashola and Ambode have an unsavory past between them. Legend has it that Fashola once fired Ambode who was serving in his administration as an Accountant General. Ambode, it has been said, made sure not to forgive Fashola for his ordeal afterwards. So, he took to dismantling all Fashola-era policies, personnel and vestiges once he took over as Lagos governor. Once, Ambode even engaged Fashola in a public spat over the decrepit Airport Road and other crumbling federal infrastructure in Lagos. It is said of Ambode that he is vindictive, cocky, prude and set in his own ways. These character flaws would prove his undoing months before the Lagos primary elections, party loyalists shared. APC members simply waited for Ambode to indicate his intention to seek a second term in office before showing their hands. Once he did, they reached for the whip on the rafters and went for the governors back. Once he did, Babajide Sanwoolu was revealed as the joker in the pack. APC chieftains and members would regale this writer with tales of Ambodes shortcomings and character flaws in the days leading to the primary election. They had had enough, they said. Local government chairmen shared stories of how they could no longer reach Ambode. Aides shared tales bordering on Ambodes high handedness and arrogant disposition. Political allies of Ambode explained why a second tenure for Ambode would be bad for Lagos, and Bourdillon told of how frosty the relationship between Tinubu and Ambode had become. Everyone just couldnt wait to sing. While putting together some of these stories for Pulse, I would reach out to the governors spokespersons or aides for a response. None came. I was later told that Ambodes media aides dont pick the calls of random persons and that Team Ambode doesnt use a smartphone for security reasons. In three and a half years of Ambodes reign, he would not engage the press directly or hold an interactive session with the online media. He offered no explanations for policy somersaults or overreach and his team gave away very little to the press. Meanwhile, Ambode would go on to fall out with his godfather, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and alienate party members from the decision making process APC members told me that they couldnt reach Ambode because he wouldnt share his phone number with them. On the streets, waste piled up, Lagos became filthier, clogged drainage channels resulted in constant floods, roads caved in, inner city roads ceased to exist and street urchins returned as Lords of the Manor. The Lagos State government had no feedback mechanism to assimilate complaints from the people because Alausa had built a wall around itself and slammed the door shut in peoples faces. I do not subscribe to the idea of a godfather handpicking leaders of a cosmopolitan city like Lagos from the comfort of his gated estate. But even the meanest and cruelest of godfathers feed off the energy, vibes, sentiments and emotions of the people. Ambode didnt just fall out with Tinubu, he fell out with Lagosians due to his under-performance on the job. He fell out with party members for his poor politics. The jury is still out on Ambodes legacy as the May 29 handover date draws ever so close. But he has looked as poor in his politics as he has been in the fine art of governance. His defeat this week at the APC primary was long in coming--except that he never saw it coming because he didn't bother to look up. Ambodes fall is a lesson in unbridled power, overreach and pride. Years from now, students of power and politics will return to this time in Nigerias history for lessons on loyalty to the party, people and godfather. Alhassan, fondly called Mama Taraba, was unanimously endorsed by all the party's 224 delegates from the 16 local government areas of the state. The party's only other aspirant, AbdulRazak Gidado, had previously stepped down for the minister after she joined. While expressing her gratitude to the party, Alhassan urged her supporters and the people of Taraba State to vote for the UDP because it is a party with great potential for the development of the state. "I assure you that I will work round the clock to ensure that our enemies are put to shame by winning the governorship election in Taraba in 2019," she said. Mama Taraba's controversial APC exit Alhassan resigned from President Muhammadu Buhari's cabinet in a letter dated September 29, 2018, citing 'grave injustice' after she was not cleared to contest for the party's governorship ticket in its primary election. The APC national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, had disclosed that she was not cleared because she was disloyal to the party. "From all she had said in the past and even her comments and general attitude during the screening, the NWC reviewed everything taken together and we arrived at the conclusion that she does not possess the level of loyalty that the APC requires for her to contest elections on our platform," he said. This was a reference to Mama Taraba's 2017 public endorsement of former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, to become president in the 2019 presidential election. She said she would support Atiku, then an APC member, over Buhari if made to choose between the two, a stance that brought her in direct conflict with the party's national leadership. Atiku dumped the APC for the People's Democratic Party (PDP) months later and is currently contesting for the party's presidential ticket to contest against Buhari in 2019. However, despite her public vow to follow Atiku, Mama Taraba failed to resign or defect to the PDP with the man she referred to as her political godfather. After resigning from Buhari's cabinet on Saturday, she withdrew her membership from the APC and joined the UDP to realise her ambition to become Taraba governor. Alhassan's history as governorship candidate Alhassan was the candidate of the APC in the 2015 governorship election and came close to becoming Nigeria's first democratically-elected female governor, finishing second (275,984 votes) to current Taraba governor, Darius Ishaku (369,318 votes), in the gubernatorial election After contesting the result of the election, a tribunal court briefly nullified Ishaku's victory. The court reached the judgement based on Alhassan's argument that Ishaku could not have been eligible for the election since he allegedly did not partake in any primary election by his party, the PDP. The members National Assembly aspirants who were disqualified from participating in the partys primary election in Ondo. The disqualified aspirants include: former Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Victor Olabimtan, Tunji Abayomi, Lucky Ayedatiwa, Odunayo Akinrinlola, Felder Olatunji and Chief Morayo Lebi. According to Tribune, the spokesman of the group, Tunji Abayomi said Oshiomhole lacks the intellectual capacity to lead the ruling party. Oshiomhole has failed as APC party chairman, he does not have the intellectual capacity to lead the party while he has never hidden his intolerance to opposing voice. He is unstable to lead the APC that is supposed to bring change His election as the national chairman of the party has increased the crisis within the party, he is unfit to rule the party. In order not to destroy and kill APC, Oshiomhole resign, resign and resign now. it is wrong for Oshiomhole to underestimate the character of our people on Ondo state, we stand for justice, equity, rule of law, constitution of the country and the party, he added. Lending his voice, one of the aspirants who was cleared, accused Oshiomhole of giving preferential treatment to some party members. He said The most violent, wrongful and unconstitutional violation is the purported act of denying the right of the people to elect their representatives. More disturbing is the increasingly audacious impunity associated with the leadership of the party under Adams Oshiomhole. ALSO READ: Oshiomhole backs result of Lagos governorship primaries "There has been a high level of inconsistent standards applied across states of the federation. There have been direct and embarrassing violation of both constitution of Nigeria and that of APC. Oshiomhole sets social media on fire Adams Oshiomhole recently got people talkingon social media following a mistake which he made during a press conference on the Osun governorship election. He said I think that for democracy to flourish, only people who can accept the pain of rigging, sorry, defeat should participate in an election. Incubeta is an international team of experts in marketing, technology, data, and creative. According to TVC News, Oshiomhole dismissed the cancellation of the election and said the exercise was in order. The APC chairman made this known while briefing newsmen after a meeting with President Buhari. The National Working Committee (NWC) panel had earlier announced that the primaries have been cancelled. Sanwo-olu declared winner The Lagos state chairman of APC, Tunde Balogun has declared Babajide Sanwo-Olu winner of the governorship primaries in Lagos. According to Balogun, Sanwo-Olu got 970, 851 votes and Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode pulled in only 72, 901 votes. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Lagos APC chairman also said I am aware that conflicting information has been circulating on our primary election, but I must tell you that the election was held and it was free and fair. It would be very painful to disenfranchise the over 1.5 million members who voted across the 245 wards in the state. At the end of the exercise, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu polled 970, 851 votes and Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode scored 72, 901 votes. With this, Mr Babajide is declared winner. ALSO READ: Pastor explains why God is punishing Ambode and his wife I thank party members for participating in the election and their dedication to democracy. APC members allege intimidation Some APC members complained that the Lagos governorship primary election was not free and fair. Following years of misrule and corruption PDP was finally booted out of power. They have been desperate to regain power ever since and will stoop to any low to achieve that goal. In an attempt to undermine the good work of the party, they resort to underhanded tactics of fraud and trickery. In that vein they have employed a network of moles and double agents within the APC. This allows them to disrupt the smooth operation of party function and sows discontent and confusion. In this particular instance PDP is attempting to put one of their men in a position to block any credible challenge to the Enugu East Senatorial district seat. Prince Lawrence Eze is a lifelong PDP member. Lawrence Eze actually contested in the PDP primary election on the 2nd of October. He failed however and he is now being primed to hijack the APC candidacy for the same seat. Reports indicate that this effort is being led by Jim Nwobodo. The former Governor of Old Anambra State and member of the PDP board of trustees. Although is an APC elder in Enugu at the moment his commitment to the party has long been questioned. He is part of the people for whom Enugu politicians coined the phrase agada agada. Walking agada agada means that you are APC during the day and PDP at night or APC in Abuja and PDP in Enugu. He maintains close ties to powerful members of PDP, including the Governor of Enugu State. Insider reports indicate he is being directed by the national secretariat of PDP to do all he can to stop the party from gaining any seats in the national assembly. In fact, 90% of the candidates approved and endorsed by the duo of Chief Jim Nwobodo and Chief Baywood Ibe (Emperor) are all PDP decampees. Some were in PDP just a few weeks ago and some, just like Prince Lawrence Eze, are still actively in PDP today. Their plan is to frustrate the agenda of President and Buhari and usher in a time of political upheaval. The plan constitutes the use of a proxy candidate to stand in until such a time that Prince Eze can step in. The stooge for their dishonorable plan is one Mrs. Ann Uchenna Ezemba. She is a known domestic staff (more commonly known as house girl) of Prince Eze and is a virtual unknown within the party. She has never been a party member and has no real support. She has clearly been forced down the throat of the party members. Prince Lawrence Eze has clearly used this woman as a stand-in in the event he fails to gain the nomination for PDP. He plans to use this great party as a launch pad for his own aims and has made a mockery of this important process by placing an embarrassment of a candidate as a stooge. She will no doubt step down when she is declared winner at which time Prince Lawrence Eze will take her place. Then the deception will be complete. Even now Prince Lawrence is still PDP to the core and will likely decamp again if elected or constitute an opposition within the party as some senators have been doing. This fraudulent scheme has been planned, funded and executed by Chief Jim Nwobodo and Chief Baywood Ibe (Emperor). Such a mockery of the democratic process must not be allowed to happen. PDP must not be allowed to dictate the procedures within the party. It undermines the very thing APC was created to fight, corruption. We are allowing the slimy tentacles of PDPs corruption infiltrate this great party and we are allowing them to sow confusion and animosity. Something must be done to stop this. Sooner rather than later. APC is facing fights on several fronts, most of which comes from the National Assembly. If PDP is allowed to tamper with the Senatorial candidate process it will further erode the power of the party in the Senate. This will only add to more opposition to the great agenda of President Buhari and Comrade Adams Oshimole. Sanwo-Olu beat the incumbent in the APC's Lagos State governorship primary election that was conducted at all wards in all 20 local government areas of the state on Tuesday, October 2, 2018. In Tuesday's election, Sanwo-Olu polled 970,851 votes, hundreds of thousands of votes more than Ambode's 72,901 votes. The APC's national working committee (NWC) panel in charge of the election officially confirmed the result on Wednesday, October 3, 2018. "After resolving some of the hiccups, the Lagos State APC Governorship Primary Committee collated the results from the 245 wards in the 20 local government areas from the collating officers. "At the end of the exercise, these are the votes scored by the aspirants: 1. Gov Akinwunmi Ambode, 72,901 votes. 2. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, 970,851 votes. "Following these results, I, Clement Ebri, the Chairman of the Lagos State APC Governorship Primary Committee hereby declare Babajide Sanwo-Olu as the winner," the committee chairman, Clement Ebri, announced on Wednesday morning. Controversy over primary election In controversial fashion, the committee had previously cancelled the election on Tuesday, noting that it had not been in charge of its conduct and supervision as it should. "We want a victory that will be credible, and will be in line with the guidelines and rules," Ebri said on Tuesday evening. With confusion over the state of the election late on Tuesday, the Lagos State APC chairman, Tunde Balogun, announced the result of the election that the NWC already dissociated itself from. Balogun announced, "I am aware that conflicting information has been circulating on our primary election, but I must tell you that the election was held and it was free and fair. "It would be very painful to disenfranchise the over 1.5 million members who voted across the 245 wards in the state." After a meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari late on Tuesday, APC national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, dismissed the NWC's cancellation of the election and directed the panel to make Sanwo-Olu's victory official. "The election has been held, anyone who is aggrieved should complain after the declaration of results," he said. Sanwo-Olu vs Ambode Ambode's monumental loss to Sanwo-Olu in Tuesday's election doesn't come as a surprise as he lost the backing of the entire party structure over the past three weeks leading to the election. Sanwo-Olu recently shot to prominence after it emerged that he had been endorsed to become the next Lagos governor by Bola Tinubu, the APC's national leader and political godfather in Lagos who also handpicked Ambode just four years ago. The relationship between Ambode and Tinubu reportedly soured over how he has distanced himself from the party's ideals and the people that ensured his emergence as governor. Tinubu's political structure in Lagos, Mandate Movement, as well as all 57 local councils in the state endorsed Sanwooluahead of the governorship primary election. All efforts made by Ambode to get back in Tinubu's good graces including a last-minute intervention by President Buhari proved abortive as it was clear there was no turning back. To make matters worse, Ambode spoke at a world press conference on Sunday, September 30, 2018, alleging that Sanwo-Olu was unfit for office because he'd allegedly been previously arrested for forgery in the United States. He also alleged that he had been to a hospital in Lagos for rehabilitation for an unspecified problem. Ambode deviated from master plan - Tinubu In his first public endorsement of Sanwo-Olu, Tinubu said Ambode's government has deviated from a master plan put together by a corps of dedicated and patriotic Lagosians for economic development that would improve the lives of people in the state. He said Lagosians have suffered from the painful consequence of the improper departure by the current government and have reacted by prompting him as the leader to seek a new alternative. Sanwo-Olu beat the incumbent in the APC's Lagos State governorship primary election that was conducted at all wards in all 20 local government areas of the state on Tuesday, October 2, 2018. In Tuesday's election, Sanwo-Olu polled 970,851 votes, hundreds of thousands of votes more than Ambode's 72,901 votes. While speaking on his victory on Tuesday, Sanwo-Olu wished the governor the best for the remainder of his tenure ahead of the 2019 election to elect a new governor. "I think it's also important to thank the executive governor of Lagos state, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode for a good fight. I wish him the best in the remainder of his tenure," he said. In his acceptance speech, Sanwo-Olu praised the APC's national leader, Bola Tinubu, for his fatherly role in his emergence as the party's flag bearer. He also thanked the entire structure of the party that endorsed him over Ambode and ensured his victory on Tuesday. He said, "I think it's appropriate I thank our national leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has provided the platform for all of us, so many of us that have looked up to him, the fatherly role, a political landscape that one cannot take for granted. "I want to also use this opportunity to thank the national chairman of our great party, the All Progressives Congress, His Excellency Adams Oshiomhole and the national working committee for giving us tremendous support, for encouraging us and for letting true democracy reflect, for sustaining this direct primary and for letting it be the true test of what it should be. "In Lagos state, I think it is appropriate to thank the entire leadership of our party from the GAC, our numerous fathers, our uncles who have held on to this journey, who has demonstrated leadership to the highest level, who have demonstrated impeccable integrity at all levels, I think I owe them deep level of appreciation, I thank you. "I want to thank the entire structure that we have in APC, from our national assembly members, distinguished senators from Lagos state, members of the house of representative, especially the majority leader and his entire team, the speaker and members of the Lagos state house of assembly. "I want to thank all the 57 chairmen and all our 57 local government areas. I want to thank all our ward chairmen, our councillors." Sanwo-Olu noted that he'll not take the party's trust for granted and run an inclusive government if elected governor next year. He said, "Lagosians, I think with what you have done for me, I cannot take you for granted, I cannot take this mandate and this confidence for granted, I'll cherish it for the rest of my life but more importantly, like I've always said, I'll remain committed, I'll keep an inclusive government, I'll be responsible, integrity will not run far from me and I will not do things that in any form would make you to begin to doubt my capacity or capability." Ambode concedes defeat, congratulates Sanwo-Olu Governor Ambode conceded defeat during a press conference on Wednesday, October 3, and congratulated Sanwo-Olu over his victory. He said, "Dear Lagosians, APC is a great party and the interests of our beloved State must always supercede that of any person or group. "It is in this regard that I wholeheartedly congratulate the winner of the Lagos State APC primaries, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu and urge all Lagosians to immediately support our party's gubernatorial candidate in the 2019 elections and work for the success of the party." The governor further noted that he is committed to working towards a smooth transition for the next governor of the state and beckoned on all party members to ensure the party is successful at the polls in 2019. Controversy over primary election The APC's national working committee (NWC) panel in charge of the election officially confirmed Sanwo-Olu's victory earlier on Wednesday, a day after it distanced itself from it. In controversial fashion, the committee had previously cancelled the election on Tuesday, noting that it had not been in charge of its conduct and supervision as it should. "We want a victory that will be credible, and will be in line with the guidelines and rules," Ebri said on Tuesday evening. With confusion over the state of the election late on Tuesday, the Lagos State APC chairman, Tunde Balogun, announced the result of the election that the NWC already dissociated itself from. Balogun announced, "I am aware that conflicting information has been circulating on our primary election, but I must tell you that the election was held and it was free and fair. "It would be very painful to disenfranchise the over 1.5 million members who voted across the 245 wards in the state." After a meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari late on Tuesday, APC national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, dismissed the panel's cancellation of the election and directed the panel to make Sanwo-Olu's victory official. "The election has been held, anyone who is aggrieved should complain after the declaration of results," he said. On Wednesday morning, the committee chairman, Clement Ebri, affirmed Sanwo-Olu's victory. "After resolving some of the hiccups, the Lagos State APC Governorship Primary Committee collated the results from the 245 wards in the 20 local government areas from the collating officers. "At the end of the exercise, these are the votes scored by the aspirants: 1. Gov Akinwunmi Ambode, 72,901 votes. 2. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, 970,851 votes. "Following these results, I, Clement Ebri, the Chairman of the Lagos State APC Governorship Primary Committee hereby declare Babajide Sanwo-Olu as the winner," he announced. Sanwo-Olu vs Ambode Ambode's monumental loss to Sanwo-Olu in Tuesday's election doesn't come as a surprise as he lost the backing of the entire party structure over the past three weeks leading to the election. Sanwo-Olu recently shot to prominence after it emerged that he had been endorsed to become the next Lagos governor by Tinubu, a former Lagos governor and political godfather in the state who also handpicked Ambode just four years ago. The relationship between Ambode and Tinubu reportedly soured over how he distanced himself from the party's ideals and the people that ensured his emergence as governor. Tinubu's political structure in Lagos, Mandate Movement, as well as all 57 local councils in the state endorsed Sanwooluahead of the governorship primary election. All efforts made by Ambode to get back in Tinubu's good graces including a last-minute intervention by President Buhari proved abortive as it was clear there was no turning back. To make matters worse, Ambode spoke at a world press conference on Sunday, September 30, 2018, alleging that Sanwo-Olu was unfit for office because he'd allegedly been previously arrested for forgery in the United States. He also alleged that he had been to a hospital in Lagos for rehabilitation for an unspecified problem. Ambode deviated from master plan - Tinubu In his first public endorsement of Sanwo-Olu, Tinubu said Ambode's government has deviated from a master plan put together by a corps of dedicated and patriotic Lagosians for economic development that would improve the lives of people in the state. He said Lagosians have suffered from the painful consequence of the improper departure by the current government and have reacted by prompting him as the leader to seek a new alternative. The Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, made the plea in Lagos during the 2018 Annual Workshop for Judges on Legal Issues in Telecommunication. He said that in spite of the countrys positive achievements in digitalisation, the country was still facing issues concerning cyber security, information and data protection. Danbatta was represented by Mr Clem Baiye, a Board Member of NCC. Cyber criminals have continued to develop new strategies to circumvent cyber security, regardless of measures put in place to checkmate their acts. It is necessary to discuss the admissibility of electronic evidence toward the successful prosecution of such cyber criminals. As such, the commission recognises the need for the judicial system to be part of those making contributions to checkmate the issue of cybercrime.Hence, the bold step behind exposing our judges to issues in telecommunication, he said. According to him, digitalisation has changed our lives more than any other technical revolution because it has affected our means of communication, fundamental rights and privacy. Danbatta said that the increase in cybercrime might be due to the proliferation of the internet and the decreasing cost of technology, which had provided millions of users the access to enormous resources. He said that the workshop was also meant to discuss Artificial Intelligence (AI), a tool that enabled people to rethink how they integrate information, analyse data and use the resulting insights to improve decision-making. "In the end, we pursue the same goals with respect to Iran," Maas told reporters after meeting Pompeo. "We just have different paths that we want to follow," he said. Maas said that Germany shared concerns about Iran's ballistic missile program and believed Tehran should withdraw from Syria, where the Shiite clerical regime is supporting President Bashar al-Assad. But Maas said that the end of the 2015 agreement would lead Iran to pursue a nuclear program with military purposes. "This would create the danger of a military conflict in the region," Maas said. The United States under former president Barack Obama negotiated the deal with Iran alongside Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia. UN inspectors say that Iran has complied with the agreement, under which it ceased sensitive nuclear work in exchange for sanctions relief. President Donald Trump withdrew from the accord, vowing instead to target Iran aggressively and roll back its role in the region. "Today, for the first time, we have also with us two bishops from mainland China," the pontiff said in a speech to kick off the month-long advisory body meeting on the role of young people in the 1.2 billion-member church. "We offer them our warm welcome: the communion of the entire episcopate with the successor of Peter is yet more visible thanks to their presence," he said. On September 22, the Vatican and China reached a provisional agreement under which Pope Francis recognised seven clergy initially ordained by Beijing without the Vatican's approval. One of those recognised, Bishop Joseph Guo Jincai, is attending the synod along with Bishop John Baptist Yang Xiaotin, another member of the Patriotic Catholic Association (PCA), a body created by the Chinese government to administer the church. Francis said he hoped the synod would help "broaden our horizons, expand our hearts and transform those frames of mind that today paralyse, separate and alienate us from young people, leaving them exposed to stormy seas". It was initially shut for four months in June due to beach erosion and pollution as the white-sand paradise sagged under pressure from thousands of day-trippers arriving by boat. But a survey of the problem during the temporary ban made clear that the short-term fix was not going to work and that the damage was worse than originally thought. "We have evaluated each month and found out that the ecological system was seriously destroyed from tourism of up to 5,000 people daily," Songtam Suksawang, director of the National Parks office, told AFP. "It's very difficult to remedy and rehabilitate because its beach was completely destroyed as well the plants which cover it," he said, adding it was "impossible" for recovery to occur in the allotted time. He provided photos to AFP showing the degradation of Maya Bay's shores, where trees and smaller vegetation have been gradually uprooted as its white sands receded. Thailand's Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation announced the indefinite closure in a royal gazette published on October 1. It said the restrictions on tourism would not be lifted until the ecosystem "fully recovers to a normal situation". Besides beach erosion, heavy traffic around the azure waters can also damage sensitive coral reefs, already vulnerable to rising sea temperatures and climate change. Arnaud Simons of Ocean Quest Global, an environmental organisation assisting the government with coral recovery around Maya Bay, said the bay's rehabilitation could "last for four years at least" and the indefinite closure is "very good news". "Over the last few months, the monsoon season and rough sea conditions have indeed hindered the efforts of coral rehabilitation, but we have no doubt that the longer term objectives... will be met." Tourism overload Thailand attracted up to 35 million visitors last year, many of whom flocked to Krabi town where boat trips carried visitors to nearby island destinations -- of which Maya Bay is a key attraction. Nanthapat Horbut, who runs a tour company in Krabi, was "disappointed" by the closure as his company had promised Maya Bay to customers booked for Thailand's tourist high season which begins in November. "All tourists... want to see Maya Bay, both Chinese and western tourists alike," Nanthapat said. Paul Pruangkarn of Pacific Asia Travel Association -- a non-profit working with Thai operators to promote responsible tourism -- said the decision was a double-edged sword for local communities. "You need to also consider the livelihoods," said Pruangkarn. "They still have to feed themselves and support their families." "The government has to consider how then can they assist them." Countries across the region are waking up to the problems of plastic waste and environmental degradation caused by beach tourism overload. Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte announced in April a six-month closure of the popular Boracay beach resort, calling the destination a "cesspool". More than 2,500 people have died of the waterborne infection since the worst cholera outbreak in Yemen's history began in April 2017, while nearly one million more suspected cases have been reported across the country. Children under the age of five make up nearly a third of all suspected cases. "We have been seeing the number of cholera cases increasing in Yemen since June, and this increase has been even more important in the last three weeks," he told reporters in Geneva. During the first eight months of the year, Yemen registered nearly 155,000 suspected cholera cases, including 197 deaths. But in the last week of August alone, 9,425 suspected cholera cases were recorded across the country, and just a week later, the number of suspected cases recorded soared to 11,478, WHO said. WHO has warned Yemen faces a third cholera epidemic as autumn rains have increased the risk of infection after already being hit by two major cholera outbreaks in less than two years. In a bid to prevent a "third wave", WHO, UNICEF and other partners began helping the government on September 30 to provide a second dose of the two-dose oral vaccination in three of the most vulnerable districts, he said. In August, nearly 390,000 out of the more than 500,000 people targeted in Al-Hali and Al-Marawiah districts in Hodeida governorate and in Hazm Al Udayn in Ibb governorate received the first dose. The three districts "were assessed to be most vulnerable to an escalation of cholera," Jasarevic said. He said the same population would be targeted again, with the aim to vaccinate 540,000 people. Those who did not receive a first dose in August will need to get another dose down the line. Cholera, which causes potentially deadly diarrhoea, is contracted by ingesting food or water contaminated with a bacterium carried in human faeces and spread through poor sanitation and dirty drinking water. Left untreated, it can kill within hours. Yemen's brutal conflict, which since 2015 has left some 10,000 people dead and eight million on the brink of famine, has created the perfect environment for cholera to thrive. WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. NASA astronaut and Purdue alumnus Drew Feustel is scheduled to return to Earth from the International Space Station on Thursday (Oct. 4) after 197 days in space. NASA Television and the agencys website will provide complete coverage of the event. Feustel and two other astronauts, American Ricky Arnold and Russian Oleg Artemyev, will undock from the stations module and head toward their parachute-assisted landing in Kazakhstan. After landing, the crew will return by helicopter to the recovery staging city in Karaganda, Kazakhstan, where they will go their separate ways. During this, Feustels third mission in space, the crew completed more than 3,000 orbits of the Earth and traveled 83 million miles. They performed a variety of scientific experiments, ranging from physics to biology, and conducted tests to improve navigation capabilities in preparation for future travel far from Earth. His completion of this mission is really exciting for Purdue. We have a long history of astronauts doing important work, and Drew is continuing that tradition, said Larry Braile, a professor of earth, atmospheric and planetary sciences at Purdue. Feustel, who received an honorary Doctorate of Science from Purdue in May, is another Boilermaker astronaut climbing the ranks at NASA. Because of Purdues rich space history, Giant Leaps is the name of Purdues Sesquicentennial campaign. Space: Earth, Exploration and Economics is one the celebrations themes. Feustel kicked off the campaign with his own Giant Leaps video. Before joining NASA in 2000, Feustel was a geophysicist for the Engineering Seismology Group in Ontario, Canada, and an exploration geophysicist for Exxon Mobil Exploration Co. His first spaceflight was the STS-125 final mission to the Hubble Space Telescope in 2009, followed by space shuttle Endeavours final mission to the International Space Station on STS-134, where he served as the lead spacewalker in 2011. Purdue, known as the Cradle of Astronauts, has graduated 24 NASA astronauts, including the first and most recent people to walk on the moon, along with hundreds of others who work at NASA and in the space industry. More than one-third of all U.S. spaceflights with humans aboard have included at least one Boilermaker. By the end of 2018, Purdue astronauts will have spent the equivalent of more than 1,100 days in space. Writer: Kayla Zacharias, 765-494-9318, kzachar@purdue.edu Larry Braile, 765-494-5979, braile@purdue.edu WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. Purdue University researchers are studying ways to make prostate cancer, ranked as the second most common and second most fatal cancer among men by the American Cancer Society, less lethal by making it less aggressive. The Purdue team has developed a drug to target the laminin receptor (37/67 LR), a membrane protein that when overexpressed can promote the growth of cancer cells and tumors. The researchers say it also could help fight other types of aggressive cancers, including pancreatic, colon, liver and breast. We are trying to take cancers foot off the accelerator by targeting this receptor, said Marxa Figueiredo, a Purdue associate professor of basic medical sciences, who helped lead the research team. Purdues drug binds to the laminin receptor and cuts its ability to help tumors grow and to communicate with blood vessels, which are the lifeblood for cancer cells and tumors. The Purdue compound mimics anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenesis pathways to inhibit cancer cell viability, proliferation, migration, as well as inhibits the formation of new blood vessels. The work also aligns with Purdue's giant leaps celebration, acknowledging the universitys global advancements made in health, longevity and quality of life as part of Purdues 150th anniversary. This is one of the four themes of the yearlong celebrations Ideas Festival, designed to showcase Purdue as an intellectual center solving real-world issues. Solutions such as this drug are also a focus of Purdues Discovery Park District. The Purdue approach is unique because it provides a single drug to perform multiple functions in cancer treatment. The drug also shows promise for treating similar cancers in pets. It is incredibly rewarding and exciting to potentially provide new options for people and for animals dealing with aggressive tumors, Figueiredo said. Figueiredo worked with her former graduate student, Sam Umbaugh, to develop this drug. She is currently collaborating with Herman Sintim, Purdue's Drug Discovery Professor of Chemistry, to create different versions of the drug that are more effective against various types of cancers. Researchers had filed a patent with the Purdue Office of Technology Commercialization and the technology is available for licensing. About Purdue Office of Technology Commercialization The Purdue Office of Technology Commercialization operates one of the most comprehensive technology transfer programs among leading research universities in the U.S. Services provided by this office support the economic development initiatives of Purdue University and benefit the university's academic activities. The office is managed by the Purdue Research Foundation, which received the 2016 Innovation and Economic Prosperity Universities Award for Innovation from the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. For more information about funding and investment opportunities in startups based on a Purdue innovation, contact the Purdue Foundry at foundry@prf.org. For more information on licensing a Purdue innovation, contact the Office of Technology Commercialization at otcip@prf.org. The Purdue Research Foundation is a private, nonprofit foundation created to advance the mission of Purdue University. Writer: Chris Adam, 765-588-3341, cladam@prf.org Source: Marxa Figueiredo, mlfiguei@purdue.edu Combat ready: Purdue-affiliated startup to teach financial literacy for armed forces, boost preparedness for troops to be deployed WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. Zoro Financial, a Purdue-affiliated startup, is developing a holistic banking application to help military personnel learn financial literacy skills through an interactive and incentive-based curriculum. We really want to help people who do not have access to traditional financial services, said co-founder Roger Morris. First, we want to help the military from a readiness standpoint by helping personnel achieve financial stability, but our long-term goal is to create a banking platform that could help everyone in need. Morris and Zak Grove started Zoro Financial after working for a financial counseling nonprofit and seeing a need for a learn-by-doing banking product. The startup will use financial technology innovations and holistic financial literacy in its mobile platform. Young military personnel can be vulnerable to predatory financial institutions, which can affect deployment readiness. According to Fortune.com, almost two-thirds of American adults cannot pass a basic financial literacy test, and the Department of Defense reports financial instability as a threat to national security. We decided to focus on military after talking to my sister who is a Navy officer and hearing her feedback, Morris said. All of these young people are in an environment where everybody just spends, not saves. They become easy targets for predatory lenders, deceptive credit card contracts and scams. Grove and Morris aim to counteract these problems by developing an effective financial literacy program. Differing from traditional curricula, the startup will offer a mobile platform that rewards users for financially advantageous decisions and planning. The Zoro Financial platform offers direct deposit, bill pay reminders, savings goals and spending analyses. The startup will offer a credit-building debit card boosting credit with lessened risk. This mobile platform does not require users to interface with every function; however, those who are proactive with their finances will receive more rewards. The startup, which plans to pilot its first prototype early next year, received entrepreneurial guidance from Purdue Foundry@WestGate, an entrepreneurship and commercialization accelerator at the WestGate@Crane Technology Park adjacent to NSA Crane. We are a mission-driven company and our mission is what motivates us, Morris said. We really think that Zoro Financial can change peoples lives, making it easier, more accessible and less stressful for people to manage their money. About Purdue@WestGate Purdue@WestGate is an economic development accelerator formed by the partnership between WestGate Authority, Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division (NSWC Crane), Purdue University and Purdue Research Foundation. The Indiana-based collaboration combines strengths to advance educational, research and development and technology commercialization across Indiana and elsewhere. Purdue@WestGate offers tools for startups, entrepreneurial experts, programs, educational opportunities and workforce development to help southern Indiana businesses grow and thrive. For more information about the resources available to businesses, visit Purdue@WestGate. Writer: Kelsey Henry, 765-588-3342, kehenry@prf.org Purdue Research Foundation Contact: Tom Coyne, 765-558-1044, tjcoyne@prf.org Sources: Roger Morris, rmorris@risefi.com Girls are getting their period at a younger age, according to new research, prompting fears that young girls are the subject of period poverty. The Ministry of Health's 2014/15 NZ Health Survey revealed that one in 16 Kiwi girls get their period while at primary school. KidsCan says the demand for sanitary products in primary schools is increasing, with many parents with low incomes struggling to afford the items for their children. Certainly what we have seen over the last four years is a significant increase in the schools we support for these [sanitary] products, Julie Chapman, chief executive of KidsCan. In particularly, more than 30 percent of KidCans sanitary products go to primary and intermediate schools. This year alone, 329 schools across the country were supplied with more than 16,000 boxes of pads, tampons and liners. Ms Chapman wrote an emotional piece for Stuff where she proposed that girls as young as eight are struggling with period poverty. That's enough for any young girl to cope with. But if your parents are struggling to provide even the basics like food it's intensely magnified, she wrote in the op-ed. She told RadioLIVE that between skyrocketing rent and petrol families have to make tough choices with impending expenses. Indeed, Dr Sarah Donovan from Otago University's public health department has called for more sanitary products to be made available for young girls in school. New Zealands drug-buying agency Pharmac rejected a request to fund women's sanitary items in April last year as it believed the items weren't medicines. Since then, supermarket chain Countdown has cut the cost of its in-house sanitary items in a bid to tackle period poverty. Ms Chapman believes they should be available to girls at no cost at school through a Government subsidy, along with lifting vulnerable families out of poverty. It is an essential item. We know that girls are not coming to school. Theyre missing out on their education because this is a significant problem. Listen to the full interview with Julie Chapman above. Drive with Ryan Bridge, 3pm - 6pm Weekdays and streaming live on rova available on Android and iPhone. RadioLIVE. Hes an icon of pop culture, a TV and film superstar, and hes coming back down under. William Shatner, of Star Trek fame, starts his New Zealand tour next week sharing stories, songs, and jokes from his incredible life. The 87-year-old caught up with RadioLIVEs Mark Sainsbury ahead of making the long trip from his home in California to our shores. He told RadioLIVE that he has no plans to slow down soon. Shatners World Down Under tour will take him to Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, before he comes this side of the ditch to perform in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. See more about his show and ticket info here. Listen to the full interview with William Shatner above. Morning Talk with Mark Sainsbury, 9am - 12pm Weekdays and streaming live on 'rova' channel 9 - available on Android and iPhone. RadioLIVE. Appointed in 2017 by US President Donald Trump, Scott Brown now spends his political career in none other than New Zealand. The US Ambassador hails from Massachusetts, where he served seven years as State Representative and three years as a Senator. Mr Brown joins RadioLIVEs Mark Sainsbury to talk all things US, New Zealand, and life as a foreign diplomat. Watch the full interview with Scott Brown above. Morning Talk with Mark Sainsbury, 9am - 12pm Weekdays and streaming live on 'rova' channel 9 - available on Android and iPhone. RadioLIVE. GERMANY: An agreement to finance electrification of the 19 km route between Ebersberg and Wasserburg am Inn was signed on September 28 by Bayern Transport Minister Ilse Aigner and Sudostbayernbahns infrastructure director Christian Kubasch. THAILAND: Construction of a new passenger hub for Bangkok is around 70% complete and on course for opening towards the end of 2020, according to municipal officials. URUGUAY: Regular passenger services from Montevideo to Pando and Sudriers were reinstated on October 1, having been withdraw in May 2012. Real estate and other records undercut a key part of Christine Blasey Fords account of why she finally came forward with charges of attempted rape against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh after some 30 years. Ford testified last week that she had never revealed the details of the alleged attack until 2012, when she was in couples therapy with her husband. She said the memories percolated up as they revisited a disagreement theyd had over her insistence on installing a second front door" when they had remodeled their Palo Alto, Calif., home. The need to explain a decision her husband didnt understand, Ford testified, pushed her to say she wanted the door to alleviate symptoms of claustrophobia and panic attacks" she still suffered from an attempted rape allegedly perpetrated by Kavanaugh in high school during the early 1980s. "Is that the reason for the second door front door -- is claustrophobia? asked Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee. Correct, Ford replied. Ford never specified when the renovation took place, leaving a possible impression that it and the therapy session happened around the same time. But documents reveal the door was installed years before as part of an addition, and has been used by renters and even a marriage counseling business. The door was not an escape route but an entrance route, said an attorney familiar with the ongoing congressional investigation. It appears the real plan for the second front door was to rent out a separate room." The discrepancy raises fresh doubts about Ford's candor and credibility amid other inconsistencies, congressional and other knowledgeable sources say, including her purported "fear of flying." Ford initially refused to submit to an interview with the committee because of an alleged airplane phobia, but investigators established that she had taken a number of flights back East this summer, and had previously flown to Hawaii, Costa Rica, French Polynesia and other South Pacific islands. Palo Alto city records show that a building permit for an additional room and exterior door was issued to Ford and her husband on Feb. 4, 2008 more than four years before the May 2012 therapy session where, she says, she first identified Kavanaugh as her attacker. All the remodeling, including a new bathroom, was completed by February 2010. The only additional permits issued to Ford at her Palo Alto address are for "solar panels" on the roof, a "solar hot water system in the garage, and an electric vehicle charge station for the driveway -- all of which were issued after 2012. Other documents, including health care-provider registration records, reveal that a marriage counselor listed Fords home address as her place of employment, ostensibly using the extra room and door for her clinical practice. That marriage therapist, Sylvia Adkins Randall, sold the home to the Fords in 2007, but continued to maintain the address for her business. Contacted by phone, Dr. Randall expressed concern about her real estate transaction and prior relationship with Ford being reported. I dont want it to be mentioned, she said. "Its personal. Randall is a licensed therapist who specializes in treating disturbing memories from the past." She supports Ford and described her allegation against Kavanaugh as credible. Since the second front door was installed, moreover, students from local colleges have lived in the additional room with the private door. In fact, under congressional questioning Thursday, Ford testified she has hosted various other residents there, including Google interns. The attorney said the tenants call into question Fords claims about why she installed the additional exterior door in her home. Renters and a business operating out of Dr. Fords home would explain the added door, he said. "Clearly, there were business purposes [for it], not just ones related to her anxieties." Also casting doubt on Ford's story is the fact she installed no such escape door at a second home, which property records show she and her husband own in Santa Cruz, Calif., less than five blocks from the beach. Yet she recently told a close friend, according to media reports, that she has resisted purchasing a home without a second exit from the master bedroom. Without it, she said she would never feel safe. Obviously, something happened that traumatized her so much that shes afraid of being trapped, her friend Jim Gensheimer, a photojournalist who worked for the San Jose Mercury News, told the Los Angeles Times on Sept. 19. Property records show Ford and her husband, Russell Ford, bought the beach house in 2007. This July the same month Ford sent a letter to Feinstein accusing Kavanaugh of attacking her -- Ford applied for permits to build a front porch and new decks at the home, located on Seaside Street in Santa Cruz. There is no application for a second front door, however, and the recent permits are the only ones applied for since 2007. No evidence has emerged of any other exterior door construction at either of Ford's homes, authorized or not. "If she rents out the room to Google employees, how does she get access to the second door to escape a perceived attacker? noted the attorney, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Renting out the room is completely contrary to her stated reason of why she wanted the second front door." Randall said she is not the therapist who counseled Ford in 2012. She said "its just a weird coincidence that the two are connected through the property and share the same profession. Ford is a research psychologist. Two other marriage counselors who worked for Randalls now-defunct Palo Alto clinic -- Couples Resource Center -- also shared an address with Fords home. A Senate Judiciary Committee spokeswoman said that Fords lawyers have provided neither the therapist's notes nor the therapists name to committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), even though they have furnished that information to Democrats on the committee. Democrats wont share it, she said, just as they withheld the July 30 letter Ford sent to Feinstein for almost two months. The aide said that Grassleys office is following a ton of leads to learn the identity of the therapist, and offered that Fords story about her therapy session and the so-called escape door is a critical part of the investigation into her allegations. The investigative side of the committee thinks its a good lead, she said, and they are pursuing it." Fords attorneys did not respond to repeated requests for comment. Ford, a registered Democrat who has marched against Trump policies, claims shes not political and that Kavanaugh first came up in counseling in May 2012 strictly because of the door. But something else was going on at the time, and it apparently caught Fords attention. Just weeks earlier, the national media reported that GOP presidential frontrunner Mitt Romney was planning to tap Kavanaugh for the Supreme Court if he won the White House. In a March 26, 2012, article in the The New Yorker, for example, legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin warned that Kavanaugh was on Romneys short list. Toobin said Kavanaugh would pose a threat to the Affordable Care Act and other Obama policies. He also slammed Kavanaugh's work as a federal prosecutor during the investigation of President Clinton over the Lewinsky scandal, noting that he wrote startling sections of a report for Independent Counsel Kenneth Starr, including that the President fondled and kissed her bare breasts " Striking an ominous tone, Toobin concluded: "If a Republican, any Republican, wins in November, his most likely first nominee to the Supreme Court will be Brett Kavanaugh." Ford, who is liberal, seemed aware at the time that Kavanaugh was in the running. "I recall saying that the boy who assaulted me could someday be on the U.S. Supreme Court, and spoke a bit about his background at an elitist all-boys school in Bethesda, Md., she testified, recounting her May 2012 therapy session. "My husband recalls that I named my attacker as Brett Kavanaugh." Still, Democrats point to her 2012 therapy session as evidence her charges are not motivated by politics. They claim she related her accusation to her husband and therapist long before Kavanaugh was in the news as a Supreme Court pick. Asked by a Democratic senator if there is a political motivation for your coming forward with your account of the assault by Brett Kavanaugh, Ford responded, No." Republicans arent buying it. So, after telling no one her story about Kavanaugh for decades, she suddenly remembered and spoke about it in couples therapy, triggered by a spat over a door, in 2012 -- which also happens to be when her fellow Democrats were worrying about the possibility that Mitt Romney could win the presidency and appoint Judge Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court? Call me skeptical," a senior GOP congressional staffer said. There's obviously more to the story than just a door." After Romney lost the 2012 presidential race, and the threat of Kavanaugh ascending to the high court passed, Ford moved on. "After that May 2012 therapy session, Ford said, "I did my best to ignore the memories of the assault, because recounting them caused me to relive the experience, and caused panic and anxiety." But she said her attitude changed again in early July 2018, when "I saw press reports stating that Brett Kavanaugh was on the shortlist of a list of very well-qualified Supreme Court nominees. So she decided to come forward with her story. "I thought it was my civic duty to relay the information I had about Mr. Kavanaughs conduct so that those considering his nomination would know about this assault, she said. Ford went public with her claim in a Sept. 16 Washington Post story. Dr. Randall said she does not believe that the door was just a pretext to hide a political motive. Part of her trauma was feeling trapped, and that stayed with her, she asserted. Randall, who specializes in sexuality, depression, anxiety and fears and phobias, says that Fords failure to tell anyone for some 30 years about the high school incident stemmed not from repressed memory syndrome but from the simple fact she was "15 years old at the time and couldnt tell anyone about it. She didnt want her parents to know she was drinking at a house without parents there, Randall said. There was a lot of shame involved. But the far more recent story of the second front door" also seemed to recede in Ford's memory banks, only to pop up after speculation about her political motives grew. She did not mention it in her original letter to Feinstein in July, or the statement she made for a polygraph exam in August, or a personal letter to Grassley last month. The tale of the door emerged, suddenly, on the eve of her testimony before Congress. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale Buy real estate. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale in US and Canada. Search Real Estate , We're sorry, this article is not currently available By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 11/03/2021 ADVERTISEMENT FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! Which couples are still together and which MAFS couples have split up and divorced? And where are they now? has featured 44 different couples getting married at first sight during it's first twelve seasons -- so which couples are still together, who has split up and divorced, and where are they all now?Each season of -- which premiered in the United States seven years ago and is based on a Danish series -- features couples (previously three couples, but four couples on Seasons 8 and 9, and five couples beginning with Season 10) being matched together by relationship experts and agree to marry when they first meet.Complete strangers become husband and wife in a matter of minutes, and the couples' lives are then documented by TV cameras over the course of the next four to eight weeks (eight weeks, in the case of 's most recent seasons).The couples typically enjoy their first night together in a hotel after exchanging vows -- with some couples deciding to consummate their marriage immediately -- and then embark on a honeymoon, move in together, and simply attempt to deal with the struggles of daily life as man and wife.At the end of the extreme marriage experiment, each couple must decide whether they'd like to stay married or get a divorce on "Decision Day."has experienced very mixed results over the years. While a significant number of couples decide to stay together and continue their new marriage at the end of their season, the real world seems to hit them hard after the cameras leave, resulting in the couple splitting up only months later.Do cast members see a different side of their spouses once cameras are gone, or do the romances naturally fizzle over time?Some couples are still together to this day and are extremely happy. Jamie Otis and Doug Hehner from Season 1, for example, have had two children.Several other couples have also had children -- including Ashley Petta and Anthony D'Amico Shawniece Jackson and Jephte Pierre Danielle Bergman and Bobby Dodd , and Deonna McNeill and Greg Okotie However, there are also relationships that ended badly. Jessica Castro from Season 2, for instance, accused Ryan De Nino of alleged death threats, and she went on to file a restraining order and lawsuit against him.Some couples have also never even made it to "Decision Day" and ended their marriage prematurely, including Season 4 couple Heather Seidel and Derek Schwartz as well as Season 6 couple Molly Duff and Jonathan Francetic Are the remaining couples now lovers, friends or enemies?! What about early season couples like Cortney Hendrix and Jason Carrion, Jaclyn Methuen and Ryan Ranellone, Vanessa Nelson and Tres Russell, Sonia Granados and Nick Pendergrast, and Lillian Vilchez and Tom Wilson?And how about more recent season couples like Danielle DeGroot and Cody Knapek Sheila Downs and Nate Duhon Jaclyn Schwartzberg and Ryan Buckley Dave Flaherty and Amber Martorana , and Tristan Thompson and Mia Bally Keith Dewar and Kristine Killingsworth , and AJ Vollmoeller and Stephanie Sersen Click thelink below to see photos of each couple and find out! BEGIN GALLERY >> Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. While the directorship change in the LGBT Resource Center has taken longer than most would have liked, Dawn D. Bennett-Alexander reminds us of UGA's dedication to diversity behind finding the next best leaders in the center. Survivors of sexual assault are amplifying their voices louder than ever. In the wake of this cultural movement, listen to the stories sexual assault survivor's are telling. It takes courage to do so. Uh-oh! It could be you, or it could be us, but there's no page here. The Most Extensive and Reliable Source of Information Related to the Mexican Drugs Cartels. You will not find this level of coverage anywhere else, join us! Send information, pictures or videos, you remain 100% anonymous. Envia fotos, videos, notas, enlaces o informacion todo 100% Anonimo. Want to be a contributor or citizen reporter for Borderland Beat? We love to have you in our team, send Sol Prendido or HEARST an email! WARNING: Posts may contain strong violent material, discretion is advised. COMMENTS: We do not publish all comments, and we do not publish comments immediately. GREENWICH When Felipe Sanches and Juan Fernandez, two recent Greenwich High School graduates, first walked into their AP Psychology class, they realized they were the only two Latinos. They partnered up for every presentation and quiz and they pushed each other to do their best. They saw their work representing that of all Hispanic students, in addition to themselves. I remember thinking, I cant mess this up because I can strengthen the stereotypes, Fernandez said. When youre the only one representing a whole group of people, then theyll generalize you by the stereotypes that already exist. Sanches and Fernandez were high-performing students, like many in their class, and ethnic group. But they had to overcome particular challenges many in the mainstream do not experience. Latino students lag behind white students in access to teachers of the same ethnicity and access to challenging coursework, while outnumbering their white peers in rates of chronic absenteeism and school discipline, according to a recent report by the advocacy group Connecticut Voices for Children. Just under 133,000 Latino children attend school in Connecticut, yet they make up 25 percent of the school population and the largest minority group. In Greenwich, Latino students comprised 21.2 percent of enrolled students in 2016-2017, up from 20.5 percent the previous year, while white students made up 63.2 percent in 2016-17, down from 64.4 percent. Like almost every diverse school district in the nation, Greenwich has experienced a persistent achievement gap that breaks down along several lines, including ethnic. Town school officials acknowledge the gap, but are quick to highlight many efforts they have taken to close it. And they point to the high performance of minority students in Greenwich compared to the states overall performance and ethnic disparity. Even though we do have a gap, which every community does, we still perform much higher than other communities, Deputy Superintendent Elizabeth-Ann Carabillo said. Latino, English-language-learning and special education students all perform above the state average, she said. For example, 52.4 percent of Greenwich Latino students met or exceeded college preparedness course requirements in 2016-17, nine points higher than the state average. But even minority students most successful at bridging the gap say they are affected by it. For Sanches and Fernandez, friends since Western Middle School and both members of their alma maters Diversity Awareness Club, the biggest struggle they faced as Latino students in Greenwich was being underestimated. Throughout all four years, Ive had to prove myself as either equal or more than other students, Fernandez said. When youre the only Latino student in an honors class, you feel like an outcast. You have to remember youre there for a reason. Sanches, similarly, said he felt he has to prove himself to defy stereotypes, listing two: Latino students dont care, and Latino students get into drugs in high school. We are aware that there are gaps, Carabillo said. We are focused on making sure were meeting the needs of the kids. But the Voices for Children study found hurdles werent just ones of perception. Statewide, Latinos are suspended at a higher rate, 10 percent, than white students, 4 percent. Latino youth are more likely to be punished for subjective violations, such as failure to remove a hat or disruptive classroom behavior, than their white peers, the Voices report states. In Greenwich, which enjoys lower suspension and expulsion rates, Latinos faced disciplinary actions at a rate of 2.6 percent while their white peers were suspended or expelled at half that rate, 1.1 percent. The Voices report group attributes this disparity to implicit bias. GPS is working to overcome implicit bias with culturally relevant training for educators, Carabillo said. The ongoing education instructs teachers in being sensitive to how children and families of racial and ethnic minorities interact with each other and view teachers. For example, Carabillo said, children who look down while their teachers discipline them might be showing respect in their culture, whereas white Americans expect children to make eye contact to show they are paying attention. Learning about that gives you a better idea of how to go about developing a relationship with the child and the family, Carabillo said. Developing a relationship is part of the schools approach to countering absenteeism, too. Absenteeism is higher among Latino students, 16 percent, than their white peers, 6 percent, in Connecticut, the report found. Greenwich is no exception: In the 2016-17 school year, 6 percent of Latinos were chronically absent, compared to only 3.3 percent of white students. The district examines absenteeism on an individual level rather than comparing rates among different ethnicities, Carabillo said. She added that the individualized approach explains why rates in Greenwich are lower. School administrators reach out to parents if children are absent for more than four days to determine if the child is sick, if there are external factors prohibiting them from getting to school and if the school needs to intervene. The Voices report contends that having a faculty that reflects the student body helps all students perform, citing a recent Vanderbilt University study that showed schools with more Latino educators having higher Latino enrollment in gifted and talented programs. Sanches said students of color need to see administrators and teachers who look like them to show them minorities can succeed. He said his mentor in high school, Bella House Assistant Dean Garfield Charles, pushed him to take on leadership roles that molded Sanches into the person he is today. Fernandez felt a special bond with his Latina AP Spanish teacher, Senora Maria Yika. Her advice seemed more genuine. I felt that, in a way, our connection of being Latino helped us trust in her, he said. I feel that theyre able to see themselves in you and youre able to see yourself in them. According to school human resource documents, the district pledges to recognize the diversity of the community and act affirmatively in recruitment, hiring and assignment of personnel. In the 2016-17 school year, Greenwich Latino educators held 5 percent of positions, higher than the states 3.6 percent. Greenwich has a much higher presence of white teachers, 89.8 percent of faculty, but it is lower than the states 91.4 percent. During the 2017-18 school year, GPS hired 57 teachers, and 16 percent of new hires represented racial minorities, Carabillo said. Sanches said despite its issues with diversity, GHS has plenty of resources for everyone. If you choose not to take the resources you have, thats on you, not on the school, he said. There are students from all ethnicities who can take advanced classes but choose not to, and Sanches said some of his friends who opted out of taking honors or AP classes said they did not want to put in the work. But he said their choice had consequences for the Latino student body as a whole. Its unfortunate because that perpetuates the stereotype that we dont care, he said. Many people around the world dream of this opportunity, and the fact that theyre throwing it to the side says something. GPS also has resources for parents. On Hispanic Parent Night, administrators inform parents about the school districts support systems, adult education programs and how to contact school officials. Parents can also participate in English-language courses. This year, classes will be held at Julian Curtiss School, St. Roch Church, First Congregational Church and Greenwich High. Despite the resources, Sanches, Fernandez and Carabillo all acknowledge the district has room for improvement. Are we satisfied with where we are yet? No, Carabillo said. We need to come together and be partners in learning. We have a long way to go. jo.kroeker@hearstmediact.com The Torrington Police Department reported the following arrests: HOME INVASION: Patrick Roma, 52, 727 Torringford St., Torrington, was arrested Oct. 2 and charged with home invasion, violation of a protective order, third-degree assault, disorderly conduct and risk of injury. He was released on a $1,000 non-surety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington Nov. 15. DISORDERLY CONDUCT: Aaron Johnson, 26, 8 Red Mountain Ave., Torrington, was arrested Sept. 30 and charged with disorderly conduct. He was released on a $500 non-surety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington Oct 9. BREACH OF PEACE: Julio Borja, 39, 245 New Litchfield St., Torrington, was arrested Sept. 29 and charged with second-degree breach of peace and risk of injury. He was released on a $1,000 non-surety bond and is scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington Nov. 15. VIOLATING PROTECTIVE ORDER: Michael Jankowski, 30, no known address, was arrested Sept. 29 and charged with violating a protective order and interfering with arrest. He was held in custody and is scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington on Nov. 7. INTERFERING WITH ARREST: Aldo Vargas, 35 22 Albion, Waterbury, turned himself in to police Sept. 26 on a warrant on a charge of interfering with an arrest. He was held on a court-ordered surety bond of $25,000 and scheduled to appear in Superior Court Oct. 22. BREACH OF PEACE: Annetonette Coleman, 26, 29 Washington Ave., Torrington, was arrested Sept. 24 and charged with second-degree breach of peace and third-degree criminal mischief. She was released on a $2,500 non-suety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington on Oct. 11. THREATENING: Robert Profeta, 29, no known address, Torrington, was arrested Sept 23 at the New Milford Police Department on an active arrest warrant. He was charged with second-degree threatening and disorderly conduct. He was released on a $500 surety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington on Nov. 8. BREACH OF PEACE: Academia Pelzer, 28, 139 East Pearl St., Torrington, was arrested Sept. 23 and charged with second-degree breach of peace. She was released on a $1,000 non-surety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington on Nov. 8. BREACH OF PEACE: William Baker, 40, 246 Water St., Torrington, was arrested Sept. 23 and charged with second-degree breach of peace and second-degree threatening. He was held on a $2,500 surety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington Nov. 1. TORRINGTON October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Susan B. Anthony Project is holding its annual events to continue helping men, women and children. According to a statement issued by the Susan B. Anthony Project, domestic violence is a pervasive and life-threatening crime affecting millions of individuals across our nation regardless of age, economic status, race, religion or education. Between 2000-2015, there were 222 intimate partner homicides in Connecticut with an average of 14 per year. In that same time frame there were 3,600 occurrences of intimate partner violence with serious or near fatal injuries. These statistics are from the 2015-2016 Findings and Recommendations of the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee, September, 2016. Last year, the Susan B. Anthony Project provided safe housing for 68 women and 45 children in our shelter and transitional housing programs. The project helped 1,562 men, women, and children in crisis. Domestic violence not only impacts victims but entire communities. SBAP also provided prevention education programs to 4,653 school-age children, and 2,090 adult community members. During October, Susan B. Anthony Project will be holding a variety of events to raise awareness on this issue. Oct. 1, a wreath was hung at Torrington City Hall in honor of victims and survivors. The wreath will be displayed for the entire month of October. Susan B. Anthony Project will hold its annual candlelight vigil on Thursday, Oct. 25, 6 p.m. at Coe Memorial Park in Torrington. At the vigil, attendees remember victims of domestic violence and celebrate those who have survived. The vigil also honors community members who have collaborated with and supported its work throughout the year. Everyone is invited to come and show your support. The Clothesline Project will be displayed at Thomaston Public Library and at Northwestern Community College in Winsted, as well as on the Susan B. Anthony Project Facebook page www.facebook.com/sbaproject. The Clothesline Project breaks the silence about violence against women and children by giving a voice to survivors and victims. The display features t-shirts designed by survivors of domestic violence and those who have lost loved ones to domestic violence. Visit the Thomaston Public Library throughout the month of October to see the display, project members said in a statement. Founded in 1983, Susan B. Anthony Project promotes safety, healing and growth for all survivors of domestic and sexual abuse and advocates for the autonomy of women and the end of interpersonal violence. Based in Torrington, Susan B. Anthony Project provides services, free of charge, in 20 towns in Litchfield County. Services range from a 24 hour hotline, individual counseling, support groups, court advocacy and community education. To find out more about SBAP services, call the 24 hour crisis hotline at 860-482-7133 or visit www.sbaproject.org . Former Cambodian opposition party lawmaker Ou Chanrath called on the government on Wednesday to free all members of the Cambodia National Rescue Party still held in the countrys jails, saying their release will pose no threat to national security. They should be released because they are political prisoners, Ou Chanrath said, speaking to RFAs Khmer Service in an interview. Their release will have no impact on Cambodias national security, and it will be in the national interest, he said. Ou Chanraths call for the prisoners release comes amid reports that Cambodias Ministry of Justice is preparing a list of more than 300 convicts names to be sent to Prime Minister Hun Sen, with the request that he forward the list to King Norodom Sihamoni to ask that those prisoners be pardoned or have their jail terms reduced. That list will apply only to women who have children or are pregnant, or to convicts who are elderly or ill, however. Speaking to reporters this week, Ministry of Justice spokesperson Chin Malin said that CNRP prisoners still in jail are not yet qualified for pardons or reductions in the their prison terms. On Sept. 12, Human Rights Watch called on Hun Sen to release all political prisoners and drop all charges against them, arguing that recent releases and pardons were merely attempts to regain international legitimacy after sham elections. Political prisoners profiled The New York-based rights group issued the appeal as it launched Political Prisoners Cambodia, a new webpage that profiles political prisoners jailed in the country that Hun Sen has now ruled for 33 years. He added five years to his tenure in office in July elections in which his party won every seat after he banned the CNRP, Cambodias only viable opposition party. Hun Sen has made a practice of heavy-handed crackdowns on his critics, followed by a relaxation of restrictions after facing international condemnation. In August, the Cambodian king granted a royal pardon at Hun Sens behest to 14 jailed CNRP activists who were serving long sentences for insurrection in connection with anti-government street protests in 2014 that turned into violent clashes with police and security forces. The move followed the release on bail from pre-trial detention of former CNRP leader Kem Sokha a year after he was arrested on treason charges widely seen as politically motivated. The 65-year-old opposition chiefs release carried the conditions that he must stay within a block radius of his home, cannot meet with CNRP officials or foreigners, and cannot join or host any rallies or political activities, his lawyer said. Kem Sokha, who had previously been denied bail six times despite fears he was suffering from ill health, still faces up to 30 years if convicted of treason. Denied medical treatment Meanwhile, a former council deputy chief for Poipet commune jailed in Banteay Meanchey province on charges of incitement to violence has been refused permission to seek medical treatment outside of jail and is in failing health, according to his wife. Chao Veasna, a member of the Sam Rainsy Party, one of two parties that combined to form the CNRP, is suffering from fevers and other chronic conditions including skin disease, his wife Vong Kimhong told RFAs Khmer Service in a recent interview. The prison has allowed other prisoners to get treatment outside jail except for my husband. This is very unfair to my family, Vong Kimhong said. Speaking to RFA in response, provincial correction center director Um Siphan called Vong Kimhongs allegations unfounded, adding, [Chao Veasnas] health is normal, and he has been exercising. If he was sick, our staff would have brought him to a hospital, he said. Reported by RFAs Khmer Service. Translated by Samean Yun. Written in English by Richard Finney. Authorities in the Chinese capital detained the mother of a child left with severe health problems following a faulty vaccine after she ran towards the national flagpole in Tiananmen Square in a bid to self-harm in protest at the lack of redress. Wang Jinfeng became a long-time petitioner for compensation and assistance from the government after her son developed the problems following vaccinations to prevent tuberculosis and hepatitis B in their home city of Yinchuan in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Driven to despair at the sight of healthy, happy children playing on the square on Oct. 1, which marked the 69th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Wang rushed towards the heavily guarded flagpole in the hope that the police would beat her up, she told RFA. "I saw all those people looking so happy, and so many children looking very lively and healthy," Wang told RFA on Tuesday. "Then I looked at my own child who was next to me, who can't walk and can't even talk, and my mental state just collapsed." "I felt that it would be better to smash my head against that flagpole and kill myself than to be beaten and humiliated to death by them," she said. The mother of another vaccine campaigner, Yan Xinhui from Luoyang in central Chinas Henan province, witnessed Wang's protest. All the other people's kids were running and jumping around, but her kid could only sit in a wheelchair," Yan told RFA. "I was pushing his wheelchair at the time, and we were still talking when she dashed off yelling that she didn't want to live any more ... and that if she didn't die under the flagpole she would be killed by the local police." Wang was stopped by police in front of the flagpole and taken to the nearest police station, however. "They talked to me a lot," she said. "The police on the Beijing side are quite sympathetic to us, and then they said they can report [our complaint] to the relevant departments." "They also bought some food for my kid, and then let me go," she said. Severe disabilities Wang's eight-year-old has been left with severe disabilities after being vaccinated at the Xixia District People's Hospital in Yinchuan. Staff at the hospital initially told her that her son's reaction "wasn't serious," so she took him Beijing for treatment. He was diagnosed with cognitive impairment and convulsions by the Beijing Children's Hospital, with a possible link to the vaccine. He has also contracted tuberculosis, she said. Wang returned to Yinchuan to lodge complaints and petitions over her son's case, as well as petition health authorities in Beijing. However, the local government repeatedly sent "interceptors" to find her in Beijing and force her to return to Yinchuan. The local health bureau wrote to Wang at the beginning of this year claiming that her son's illness had nothing to do with the vaccine he had been given and denying any responsibility. "They had never said anything about this before; they just told me to send his clinical notes and an application to the relevant departments," she said. "How can I accept this outcome?" Since then, Wang has been detained and beaten by "interceptors," hired security guards security guards from Yinchuan who beat her up in her rented accommodations in Beijing and forced her to move. Yan said her experience was similar to Wang's and to that of several other parents in a group of campaigners from out of town who are trying to win redress by petitioning in Beijing. Her four-year-old daughter developed symptoms of learning disability only after being vaccinated, and was issued with a diagnosis absolving local health authorities of any blame. Yan said two of the children in the group had recently died of complications linked to faulty vaccines. "We all feel awful about this, everyone in our group," she said. 'Substandard vaccines' in Shandong Last month, the ruling Chinese Communist Party fired the head of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the eastern province of Shandong "because of a case of substandard vaccines," the party's disciplinary arm announced. Bi Zhenqiang is also under investigation for other "disciplinary violations," official media reported. Seven other Shandong officials have also been held accountable in the case, with five of them dismissed, including the deputy head of the Shandong Health and Family Planning Commission and the deputy head of the Food and Drug Administration, the China Daily newspaper reported. The faulty vaccines were produced by Changchun Changsheng Biotech, where an unfolding scandal has seen the sacking of dozens of top officials and company executives. President Xi Jinping demanded a thorough investigation into vaccine scandal and promised severe punishment for those responsible, the paper said. But the authorities repeatedly detain, beat and even "disappear" parent campaigners, who want the government to face up to its responsibilities and give the families hit by faulty vaccines compensation to help with mounting medical bills. Parents are also calling for a vaccine law, and more timely public information about vaccine safety, as well as help with mounting medical bills for their children, some of whom are severely disabled after receiving substandard vaccines. Reported by Wang Yun for RFA's Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. Myo Win, vice president of the All Burma Students' Democratic Front, discusses an earlier meeting attended by members of Myanmar's Peace Commission, ethnic armed groups, and the national military, in Yangon, Oct. 3. 2018. Myanmars peace commission wants government officials, military officers, and ethnic armed groups that have signed the countrys nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA) to meet with top national leaders on Oct. 15 to iron out unresolved issues in the slow-moving peace process, a leader from one of the organizations said Wednesday. Peace commission chairman Tin Myo Win held a two-day preliminary meeting with representatives from the armed forces and ethnic armies on Oct. 1-2 at the National Reconciliation and Peace Center (NRPC) in Yangon to discuss a larger meeting that would include government and military leaders. Myo Win, vice president of the All Burma Students Democratic Front (ABSDF) one of the 10 groups that has signed the NCA and no relation to Tin Myo Win, told RFAs Myanmar Service that the commission wants State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi, military commander-in-chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, and decision-makers from the ethnic armed groups to participate in the meeting. We want the most responsible leaders to attend the Oct. 15 meeting because they have to work together to solve the problems, he said. These leaders need to write instructions and policies for future political dialogues, so we should try to have it, Myo Win said. He also said that Myanmars peace process has been hurt both by the situation in Rakhine state and by many other difficulties and challenges, though he did not mention specific ones. The international community and rights groups have condemned the Myanmar government and security forces for a brutal crackdown on Rohingya Muslims in northern Rakhine last August, with a United Nations fact-finding commission in September accusing the military of genocide and calling for the prosecution of top commanders for a campaign that drove more than 700,000 Rohingya into neighboring Bangladesh. At a summit in northern Thailand in September, representatives from the 10 NCA-signatory groups issued a statement saying that they would continue efforts to engage in talks with the national military and the government about federal policies, such as holding further rounds of key peace negotiations. They also said they would continue pushing for a democratic federal union in Myanmar, under which ethnic minority groups have rights equal to those of the Bamar majority. Aung San Suu Kyi began the peace initiative, known as the 21st-Century Panglong Conference, in August 2016 in a bid to end seven decades of civil war and forge a democratic federal union through negotiations. During the third round of the peace talks in July, she called for a new strategic vision to build a peace framework to end the hostilities, which have ravaged Myanmars ethnic minority-populated border regions and driven tens of thousands of civilians from their homes. To date, the parties to the talks have agreed on 51 basic principles involving the political sector, the economy, and land matters, but they have yet to reach an accord on the security sector. Reported by Aung Theinkha for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khet Mar. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin. Sevirdin, a Kazakh national, married an ethnic Uyghur Chinese national named Muyesser in 2007 after the two of them completed their studies at Al-Azhar Islamic University in Egypts capital Cairo. The couple moved to Kazakhstan shortly afterwards, started a family, and applied for Muyesser to obtain Kazakh citizenship. But despite paying more than 14,600,000 Kazakh tenge (U.S. $40,000) to various authorities over the span of nearly 10 years, the government refused to grant her Kazakh nationality. Muyesser returned to her hometown in Kizilsu Kirghiz (in Chinese, Kezileisu Keerkezi) Autonomous Prefectures Atush (Atushi)a city in northwest Chinas Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR)in August 2016, after immigration officials in Kazakhstan told her to renew her passport and track down documentation from local authorities to complete her citizenship application. But after arriving in Atush, authorities seized her passport, and three months later she was sent to a political re-education campone of a network of facilities in the XUAR in which Chinese authorities began detaining Uyghurs accused of harboring strong religious views and politically incorrect ideas since April 2017. Sevirdin recently told RFAs Uyghur Service about his efforts to locate Muyesser and the difficulties he and his three children have faced since her arrest. RFA: How long has it been since you lost contact with your wife? Sevirdin: She went back to her homeland on Aug. 20, 2016, because she was asked to renew her passport by the Kazakh authorities, but the Chinese authorities took away her old passport and never issued a new one. Since the time she returned home, she was routinely questioned by police. Then, three months later, she was arrested and taken away. We managed to keep in contact by phone for about two months. Then, one day she texted me saying that she would be moved to a different place. When I asked whether she was being moved to a prison, she replied, Yes. I lost contact with her for another two months. Then, she wrote to me on [the messaging app] WeChat from a hospital ... She informed me at the time that she had been taken to the hospital after she fainted in prison. That was the last contact we had. Prior to her being transferred to prison, she wrote to me using WeChat to explain that she had been deemed a religious extremist because she studied at Al-Azhar University in Egypt. They detained her because she had studied Islam in a foreign country [that is blacklisted by the Chinese authorities for the perceived risk of Muslim extremism]. Since I lost contact with her, I wanted to go to China to try to find her, but in her last message she said Please dont come to this country otherwise our children will become orphans. The second thing she said was, Dont look for me and dont call my family. If anyone receives a call from abroad, the police will arrive within 20 minutes to harass them. Muyesser's children in Kazakhstan, in an undated photo. Credit: Sevirdin RFA: Did you seek help from the Kazakh authorities? Sevirdin: When she was here [in Kazakhstan], we asked for help [to get her citizenship], while presenting our three children, but they didnt assist us. Therefore, I assumed Kazakh officials wouldnt help me with this matter, and Ive never approached them about it. It has been nearly 10 years since we started a family. The authorities here requested 14 documents in order for her to become a Kazakh citizen, and some of the documents she had to obtain from the Chinese government. She wrote to me on WeChat saying, Dont look for me. I told them that we are divorced. If I didnt say that we were divorced, they would put my family under extreme pressure. I will contact you when I am out, and when the situation has calmed down. There is nothing I can do at the moment. The Chinese Embassy [in the Kazakh capital Astana] currently is not issuing anyone visas. Even if I went there, no one would listen to my complaints. I am the sole provider for my children now. I was the Imam at the local mosque for 10 years, but I had to stop my work. RFA: How are you managing financially? Sevirdin: It is difficult. My four- and five-year-olds attend kindergarten, and my eldest goes to school. But I can only work while they are in class. If I were to call her family members from my number here in Kazakhstan, it would cause trouble for them, so I went to Qorghas (Huocheng) [county, across the border in the XUARs Ili Kazakh (Yili Hasake) Autonomous Prefecture] and used a Chinese number to call almost everyone [in her family], but I was only able to connect with my father-in-law. We spoke for roughly three minutes. He said, I am in very poor health. I havent spoken to your mother-in-law for more than six months, as she has also been taken [to a re-education camp] for study. When I asked him about my brother-in-law, he said he was also taken for study. His voice was trembling in fear. At the end of the call, he said, Son, please dont ask any more questions. When I asked, should I come to see you in Atush, he replied, Never come here. He sounded terrified when he said that. Reported by Gulchehra Hoja for RFA's Uyghur Service. Translated by RFAs Uyghur Service. Vietnams ruling Communist Party named its party leader on Wednesday to serve both in that role and as the countrys new president, subject to approval by Vietnams National Assembly later this month or in November, media sources say. General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong replaces former president Tran Dai Quang who died last month, and if approved would be the first to hold both top posts at the same time since Communist Party founder Ho Chi Minh led Vietnam in the 1960s. Trong, 74, is seen as a political hard-liner who has cracked down on corrupt bankers and other officials, and who had joined with former President Quang in jailing scores of political dissidents in recent years. Speaking to RFAs Vietnamese Service on Wednesday, Nguyen Dinh Cong, a political observer based in Hanoi, called the process by which Trong was nominated by his party to serve as president with the approval of a rubber-stamp parliament an example of phony democracy. The Vietnamese people should first be allowed to vote on candidates for the job, Cong said. Trong should have been included in a group of other candidates, maybe two or three put forward in a transparent election, Cong said. Then, if the people saw that Trong is capable, they would have trust in him, and he would get the position. But the most important point is that the people would have voted first, he said. While noting both positive and negative aspects to Trongs holding both jobs in government, Cong said that Trongs political views are what will matter most. His conservative views are very strong, Cong said. Also speaking to RFA, former Vietnamese ambassador to the Netherlands Dinh Hoang Thang said that Vietnams political culture still lacks two important components: the rule of law, and respect for civil society. On overseas trips, Vietnamese leaders ask host countries counterparts to recognize Vietnam as a free-market economy, while back home, they tell the Vietnamese people that they have a socialist economy, said Thang. A free market, a rules-based state, and civil society are the three-part model for truly democratic and progressive countries, Thang said. Reported by RFAs Vietnamese Service. Translated by An Nguyen. Written in English by Richard Finney. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian vowed late on October 2 to tender his resignation in an effort to force early parliamentary elections before the end of the year. Rallying tens of thousands of supporters in Yerevan, he also announced the firing of six government ministers representing the Prosperous Armenia (BHK) and Dashnaktsutyun parties who he accused of hampering his drive for early elections. Pashinian called on supporters to rally outside the parliament building in central Yerevan immediately after lawmakers from the BHK and Dashnaktsutyun joined the former ruling Republican Party (HHK) in passing a bill that would make it harder for him to dissolve the current parliament. Pashinian condemned the bill as a "conspiracy against the Armenian people" as he addressed the protesters, some of whom were blocking the entrances to the parliament building. "By approving this bill, the Republican party and forces that supported it have officially declared the existence of a counterrevolution," he told the crowd, where some protesters shouted "Niko! Niko!" and "Snap polls!" "We will have early elections in late November or early December," he declared before entering the building to negotiate with leaders of the parliamentary forces. "Holding early parliamentary elections was one of the conditions of our velvet revolution, and was included in the government program which was approved by the parliament." Legislators who voted for the bill, which must be signed by the president to become law, claimed it was not aimed at stopping new elections. "We made the decision not because we don't want to face early elections, but because we can't accept pressuring lawmakers," parliament speaker Ara Babloyan said. Under the Armenian Constitution, snap elections can be called only if the prime minister resigns and the parliament fails to replace him or her by someone else within two weeks. In his speech, Pashinian said that he will step down shortly after President Armen Sarkissian certifies the dismissal of the six ministers affiliated with BHK and Dashnaktsutyun. "If it turns out that the people stand for preterm elections, then together with the people we will not allow the parliament to elect a new prime minister," he said, adding that he will continue to perform his duties in the interim. He again insisted that the current National Assembly "does not represent the Armenian people" and that he won a popular mandate to seek its dissolution in the September 23 mayoral election in Yerevan. His My Step bloc won over 80 percent of the vote in that election. Dashnaktsutyun said, meanwhile, that it was recalling its members, Agriculture Minister Artur Khachatrian and Economic Development Minister Artsvik Minasian, from Pashinian's cabinet. There was no immediate reaction to the latest developments from the BHK, the second largest parliamentary force, led by businessman Gagik Tsarukian. With reporting by AP, AFP, and Reuters The code has been copied to your clipboard. width px height px SIMFEROPOL, Ukraine A court in Russia-controlled Crimea has started to hear the appeal of a pro-Ukrainian activist against his five-year prison term. Volodymyr Balukh, who has been on hunger strike since March, refused to leave his cell on October 3 to attend the hearing via video link at the Supreme Court of Crimea. The court rejected a motion filed by Balukh's lawyer, Olga Dinze, to allow her client in the courtroom and started the hearing without his presence. Balukh was originally arrested in December 2016 and convicted on a weapons-and-explosives possession charge in August 2017. His conviction, and nearly four-year prison sentence, was reversed on appeal and returned to a lower court, which issued the same verdict and sentence in January. The new case against Balukh was started in March, after the warden of the penal facility where he is being held sued him, claiming that Balukh attacked him. In July, a court found Balukh guilty in the second case, which his supporters dismissed as politically motivated, and sentenced him to five years in prison. Balukh was arrested after Russian security agents allegedly found explosives and ammunition in his house. The search was conducted shortly after Balukh planted a Ukrainian flag in his yard and affixed a sign to his house honoring those killed in Kyiv in 2013 and 2014 during the street protests that ousted the countrys pro-Russian president. Russia illegally annexed Ukraines Crimea region in March 2014, about a month after the president, Viktor Yanukovych, fled the country. Since that time, Russia has moved aggressively to prosecute Ukrainian activists and anyone who questions the annexation. Five members of one family in Ukraine's southern region of Odesa have been hospitalized with symptoms of anthrax after slaughtering cattle, the Health Ministry says. A ministry statement issued on October 2 said that one of the patients had so far tested positive for anthrax. The statement says the form of anthrax was not pulmonary, meaning that only the skin of the patient was affected, making it possible to cure with antibiotics. The tests also revealed anthrax spores in meat from the slaughtered animal and at the site where it was killed in the village of Minyaylivka in the Odesa region. Their village has been under 15-day quarantine since September 30, during which all livestock and residents of the village will be thoroughly checked by medical and sanitary experts. Anthrax spores can survive in soil for a long period of time and impose danger to grazing livestock. Since 2003, Ukrainian officials have reported several cases of anthrax in various regions. A key achievement of Russian President Vladimir Putin on a trip to India this week will be the signing of a $5 billion deal to supply India with S-400 air-defense systems, a top Kremlin aide has said. The deal comes despite warnings from the Pentagon that India would run afoul of U.S. sanctions against Russia's military and defense sector if it purchased the sophisticated weapon systems. Putin is visiting India on October 4-5 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Moscow has been negotiating to sell the S-400 long-range surface-to-air missiles to India for months. "The key feature of this visit will be the signing of the agreement to deliver S-400 air-defense systems. The value of the contract will be more than $5 billion," Putin's top foreign-policy aide, Yury Ushakov, told reporters in Moscow. He called Russia's military relationship with India "traditional and long-standing." But the S-400 sale has raised concern in Washington, which is seeking to develop a defense relationship with India to counter China's growing military presence in Asia, and wants India to reduce its reliance on Russian technology. Moreover, the Pentagon has warned India that the purchase would violate U.S. sanctions against Russia's military that went into effect this year. India has signaled it will ask Washington for a special waiver from the sanctions to purchase the S-400 systems. Congress enacted legislation this year that would allow the president to waive the sanctions for countries that are developing defense relationships with Washington. While U.S. legislators said they had India in mind when they passed the waiver legislation, a senior Pentagon official warned New Delhi last month that there was no guarantee it will get an exemption from the sanctions. With reporting by AFP, Reuters, and Interfax Macedonian Foreign Minister Nikola Dimitrov has apologized to a correspondent of the Financial Times after she was threatened on Twitter by a journalist from Macedonia's state news agency. Valerie Hopkins, who is the Balkans correspondent for the British newspaper, was threatened in a tweet by Cvetin Chilimanov, an employee of Macedonia's MIA news agency, after she traveled to Skopje to cover the September 30 referendum on whether to change the countrys name. The proposal to change the ex-Yugoslav republic's name is aimed at resolving a decades-long dispute with Greece and open the door to eventual NATO and European Union membership. Chilimanov, who is known for his anti-Western stance and his online criticism of Western officials and ambassadors in Macedonia, tweeted on October 2, "To all taxi drivers following me, if this one gets in your car its time for uncle Kumplung" -- a reference to a character in a 1990s film about a taxi driver who beats and rapes women. Dimitrov apologized in a tweet on October 3 for Chilimanov's action. He tweeted, "Dear @VALERIEin140 please accept my apologies on behalf of the whole country. This is not what Macedonia stands for!" Dimitrov's reaction came after the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) also condemned Chilimanov's threats as "shameful and unacceptable." "Tweet threatening journalist Valerie Hopkins is shameful and unacceptable," OSCE Media Representative Harlem Desir tweeted on October 2. "All threats against journalists, especially gender-based incitements to violence against female journalists, are irresponsible." The OSCE called on Chilimanov to "immediately" remove his tweet, but the message was still visible on October 3. The U.S. ambassador to Macedonia, Jess Baily, retweeted the OSCE tweet and wrote, "Calling for violence against journalists is disgraceful. [Chilimanov] should be ashamed." Chilimanov, who is deputy head of the Macedonian Journalists Association (MAN), was also one of the founders of a campaign against U.S. philanthropist George Soros. With reporting by balkaninsight.com Georgia will one day join the alliance, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, 10 years after the Western military organization first promised the South Caucasus country it would become a member. "NATO's door remains open," Stoltenberg said in Brussels on October 3 after chairing a meeting between Georgian and NATO defense ministers. At a 2008 summit in Bucharest, NATO agreed that Georgia will eventually become a NATO member, but no firm date has been set, although the membership perspective for the country has been reconfirmed at every summit ever since. Stoltenberg said the NATO allies welcomed the continued progress Georgia is making on reforms, in particular on more effective security and defense institutions and modernizing their armed forces. The NATO chief said they also restated their full support for Georgias sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity and called on Russia to end its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia and to withdraw its forces from these regions of Georgia. Georgia, a country of some 3.7 million people, fought a brief war with Russia in August 2008, and Moscows continued military presence in the countrys territory adds to tensions in the region. After the war, Russia left thousands of troops in Georgias breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia and recognized both as independent countries. Ten years after Russia and Georgia went to war, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev warned that Georgias joining NATO could lead to a "horrible" new conflict. In an interview with the Kommersant FM radio station on August 6, Medvedev said that the military alliances plans to eventually offer membership to Georgia are "absolutely irresponsible" and a "threat to peace." With reporting by AP Iraq's new president has moved quickly to install veteran Shi'ite politician Adel Abdul-Mahdi as prime minister, charged with forming a new government nearly five months after national elections were held. Abdul-Mahdi is an independent who previously served as vice president, oil minister, and finance minister. He is not allied with either of the two Shi'ite-led blocs that each claim to have the most support after May's elections, in which no party won an outright majority. He was previously a member of the Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council, a large Shi'ite party with close ties to Iran. Abdul-Mahdi was tasked with forming a new government by Barham Salih, a Kurdish politician who was elected to the largely ceremonial role of president in a parliamentary vote earlier on October 2. Under an unofficial agreement dating back to the 2003 U.S.-led invasion, Iraq's presidency is held by a Kurd, while the prime minister is Shi'a, and the parliament speaker is Sunni. The prime minister-designate will have 30 days to submit his cabinet to parliament. Iraq held elections May 12. Two Shi'ite-led blocs since the elections have claimed to have the most seats and therefore the right to form a government. One is led by the current prime minister, Haidar al-Abadi, and includes supporters of populist Shi'ite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, whose followers won the most votes in the election. The other bloc includes state-sanctioned militias, many of which are backed by Iran, as well as former Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki. Maliki is one of Iran's most prominent allies in Iraq while Abadi was seen as the preferred candidate of the United States. Sadr portrays himself as a nationalist who rejects both U.S. and Iranian influence in Iraq. Abdul-Mahdi emerged as a consensus candidate for prime minister among the Shi'ite factions. Based on reporting by AP, dpa, and Reuters No media source currently available The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Thousands of Armenians heeded the call of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian who has demanded early parliamentary elections after May's peaceful revolution. Russian President Vladimir Putin has lashed out at Sergei Skripal, the former Russian intelligence officer whom Britain accuses Moscow of poisoning with a weapons-grade nerve agent in England, calling him a "traitor" and a "scumbag." Speaking at an energy forum in Moscow on October 3, Putin called the dispute over the poisoning of Skripal and his daughter "another spy scandal that has been artificially pumped up." "I see that some of your colleagues are pushing forward the theory that Skripal is some kind of human rights defender," Putin told the audience. "He is a spy. A traitor to his homeland. There is such a thing -- a traitor to one's homeland. He is one of them." "He is a scumbag. That's all there is to it," Putin added. Britain has accused Russia of poisoning Skripal and his daughter Yulia, who have recovered following weeks of hospitalization after they were found incoherent on a bench in the English city of Salisbury on March 4, with a nerve agent called Novichok. A British woman and her partner also fell ill after coming in contact with the poison later in a town near Salisbury. The woman, Dawn Sturgess, died in July. British authorities have laid attempted murder and other charges in absentia against two alleged Russian military intelligence officers they say carried out the attack. Russia denies involvement despite mounting evidence, and the dispute has led to an exchange of diplomatic expulsions and deepened already severe tension between Moscow and the West. Putin said that what he called "an entire information campaign that has been rolled out" over the Skripal poisoning will eventually pass. "I hope it ends -- and the sooner it ends, the better," Putin said, adding that international espionage will continue. "What, were battles between special services born yesterday? Everybody knows that espionage, like prostitution, is one of the most important professions in the world," said Putin, a longtime Soviet KGB officer who had a stint as head of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) before his rise to the presidency. He also claimed that Skripal, 67, had continued spying after he was released from prison in Russia and sent West in a Cold War-style swap in 2010. "I have already said that Skripal is a traitor. He was caught and punished. He spent five years in all in prison. We released him," Putin said. "He left and continued cooperating with some secret services." Skripal, a former colonel in Russia's military intelligence agency known as the GRU, was convicted of treason in 2006 by a Russian court after being accused of spying for Britain. Putin also repeated Russian calls for U.S. forces to leave Syria when the extremist group Islamic State (IS) is defeated there, saying that when that happens "there will be no explanation" for a foreign military presence in the war-ravaged country. He said that "we should all strive" for a situation in which "there are no forces of foreign third countries in Syria at all." Asked whether Russian forces should also eventually leave, he said that they should if the Syrian government calls for them to do so. Russia has given President Bashar al-Assad's government crucial support in the more than seven-year war in Syria and says that while U.S. and Turkish forces have not been invited in by the government, the Russian military has. Putin expressed hope for an improvement in Russia's badly strained relations with the United States but as in the past suggested that the fault lies with Washington -- something U.S. officials dispute, saying aggressive actions by Moscow have harmed ties. He said he wanted "the obscurantism about Russia's supposed interference" in U.S. elections "to end...so that internal political dirty games do not poison Russian-American relations and negatively influence the situation in the world." With reporting by Interfax, TASS, and AFP Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed softening the punishment in some cases for inciting hatred, apparently responding to concerns over prison terms handed down to people for "liking" or reposting memes on the Internet. An amendment Putin submitted to parliament on October 3 would remove the possibility of a prison sentence for first-time offenders found to have incited ethnic, religious, and other forms of hatred and discord in public, including in the media or on the Internet. First-time offenders would face administrative instead of criminal prosecution, meaning they would be fined, do community service, or be jailed for a short period of time. If a person committed a similar offense within a year after his or her administrative punishment, he or she would then face criminal prosecution and the possibility of two to five years in prison. In recent years, human rights activists have expressed concern over the arrests and imprisonment of Russians for publicly questioning religious dogmas and posting, reporting, or liking memes or comments that authorities say incited hatred. Putin's proposal follows a string of cases in which Russians have been charged for publishing materials, sometimes satirical, to social networks such as VKontakte and Facebook. It comes two weeks after the Supreme Court sharply narrowed when people can be charged under the country's hate-crime and extremism legislation, saying that simply "liking" or reposting material on social media does not alone constitute a crime. Kremlin critics have described the cases as part of an ongoing government crackdown on online speech and accused the authorities of using the laws to stifle dissent. An explanatory note posted along with the proposed amendment says it aims to free offenders from criminal prosecution if their actions are "committed a single time and do not pose a serious threat to the foundations of constitutional order and security of the state." Offenders, including first-time offenders, would still face up to six years in prison if their incitement to hatred involves violence, the use of their position, or is committed by a group. The proposal seems certain to pass, as the Kremlin-controlled United Russia party dominates both houses of parliament. Senior lawmakers in the lower house will discuss it on October 8, State Duma speaker Vyacheslav Volodin said. On October 2, Putin signed into law a bill toughening punishment for those who refuse to delete from the Internet information deemed illegal by a court. Under the legislation, refusing to delete such information can be punished with hefty fines and up to 15 days in jail. With reporting by Novaya Gazeta, Interfax, and RTVi Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law an unpopular bill raising the retirement age by five years, the Kremlin said. The October 3 announcement came hours after the upper chamber of Russia's parliament passed the legislation, with 149 members of the Federation Council voting in favor. Five voted against and three abstained. In late September the lower chamber, the State Duma, passed the pension-reform bill after approving Putin's proposal to limit the increase for women to five years instead of the eight years the legislation initially called for. The legislation will gradually raise the retirement age for women from 55 to 60 and for men from 60 to 65. The bill was introduced a month after Putin was sworn in for his fourth presidential term, which may be his last because the constitution bars him from running again in 2024. Experts have warned for years that a combination of factors including life expectancy, the labor force, and long-term budget forecasts require immediate changes to Russia's pension system. But Putin and his government had held off on seeking changes during his previous terms in office. In June, Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev announced that the government was submitting legislation that would increase the retirement age. The plan swiftly led to protests and dented Putin's approval rating despite several weeks of efforts to distance himself from the idea. Putin finally weighed in with a televised address to the nation on August 29, proposing that the retirement age for women be raised to 60 rather than 63. With reporting by Dozhd and TASS Russia says it has delivered S-300 surface-to-air missile systems to Syria, despite objections from Israel and the United States that the weapons will escalate the war in the Middle Eastern country. "The work was finished a day ago," Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu told President Vladimir Putin during an October 2 meeting broadcast on state-run Rossia-24 television. Shoigu said that Russia delivered four S-300 launchers along with radars and support vehicles. Speaking during a Security Council meeting chaired by President Vladimir Putin, he said it will take three months to train Syrian personnel to operate the system. He repeated Russian statements that the purpose of the delivery was to protect Russian military personnel in Syria, where 15 Russian servicemen were killed when Syrian forces shot their reconnaissance plane down on September 17. Putin ordered the military to supply the missiles to Syria after the downing that Russia blamed partly on Israel, which was staging air raids on Iranian targets in Syria at the time. The Russian Defense Ministry accused Israeli warplanes of using the Russian aircraft as a cover to dodge Syria's existing, Russian-provided defense systems. Israel voiced regret afterward, but blamed Syrian incompetence for the incident and said it would continue bombing Iranian military targets in Syria. "We have not changed our strategic line on Iran," Israeli Education Minister Naftali Bennett, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus security cabinet, said on October 2. "We will not allow Iran to open up a third front against us. We will take actions as required," he told Israel Radio. In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said she could not confirm that Russia had delivered the systems but added, "I hope that they did not." "That would be, I think, sort of a serious escalation in concerns and issues going on in Syria," she said at a briefing. Shoigu at the meeting in Moscow also said the Russian military has added equipment in Syria for "radio-electronic warfare" and now can monitor the airspace in the area used for strikes on Syrian soil. Along with upgrading Syria's missile defenses, Moscow announced that Russia would begin jamming the radars of hostile warplanes in regions near Syria, including over the Mediterranean Sea, to prevent further incidents that could cause harm to its troops. A Russian lawmaker this week said that 112 Russian military personnel have been killed so far in Syria since it stepped up its involvement in the war in 2105, launching a campaign of air strikes and bolstering its military presence on the ground. Russian and Iranian military support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad have been critical in helping turn the tide of the war in his favor. Over 400,000 people have been killed in the conflict, which began with a government crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2011, and millions more driven from their homes. With reporting by AP, AFP, and Reuters The United States says it is canceling a decades-old friendship treaty with Iran after Tehran cited it in an international court case against Washington's sanctions policy. "I'm announcing that the US is terminating the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. This is a decision, frankly, that is 39 years overdue," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters on October 3, referring to the year of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. After the announcement, Tehran slammed the United States as an "outlaw regime." The U.S. move came after the top UN court ordered the United States to ease sanctions it reimposed on Iran following Washington's withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear accord between Tehran and world powers earlier this year. The 1955 Treaty of Amity, Economic Relations, and Consular Rights called for "friendly relations" between Iran and the United States, encouraged mutual trade and investment, regulated diplomatic ties, and granted the International Court of Justice (ICJ) jurisdiction over disputes. It was signed at a time of close relations between Washington and Tehran, long before the 1979 revolution brought about decades of hostility between the two. In August, Washington slapped a first round of punitive measures on Iran after President Donald Trump in May pulled the United States out of the 2015 nuclear deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions. The U.S. moves sent Iran's economy into a downward spiral with the national currency, the rial, hitting record lows. Iran challenged the reinstatement of sanctions in a case filed in July at the ICJ in The Hague, arguing that it breaches the friendship treaty between the two countries and accusing the United States of "economic aggression." U.S. lawyers responded by saying the reimposition of the sanctions was legal and a national security measure that cannot be challenged at the UN court. In a preliminary ruling in the case, the ICJ said earlier on October 3 that exports of "humanitarian" goods such as medicines and medical devices, food, and agricultural commodities" should be allowed, as well as aviation safety equipment. It said the U.S. sanctions on such goods breached the 1955 treaty between Iran and the United States. Announcing the decision, the court's president, Judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf, said U.S. sanctions on goods "required for humanitarian needs...may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." Sanctions on aircraft spare parts, equipment, and associated services have the "potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran and the lives of its users," he also said. The ruling is a decision on so-called provisional measures ahead of a final decision on the matter, which may take several years, according to experts. Speaking to reporters, Pompeo said the ruling marked a useful point for us to demonstrate the absolute absurdity of the Treaty of Amity between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran." He also said the United States was "disappointed" that the ICJ "failed to recognize that it has no jurisdiction to issue any order relating to these sanctions measures with the United States, which is doing its work on Iran to protect its own essential security interests." The secretary of state said that Iran's claims under the treaty were "absurd," citing Iran's history of terrorism, ballistic-missile activity, and other malign behaviors, and accused Tehran of "abusing the ICJ for political and propaganda purposes." Pompeo added that the United States will work to ensure it is providing humanitarian assistance to the Iranian people. "Today US withdrew from an actual US-Iran treaty after the ICJ ordered it to stop violating that treaty in sanctioning Iranian people. Outlaw regime," Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif later tweeted. Earlier, Zarif called the court decision "another failure for sanctions-addicted U.S. government and victory for rule of law." And the Foreign Ministry said the ruling "proved once again the Islamic Republic is right and the U.S. sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel." The U.S. ambassador to the Netherlands, Peter Hoekstra, said it was "a meritless case over which the court has no jurisdiction." He added that the ruling did not go as far as Iran had requested, saying the court issued a narrow decision on a very limited range of sectors." The ICJ rules on disputes between UN member states. Its decisions are binding and cannot be appealed, but it has no mechanism to enforce them. Both Washington and Tehran have ignored ICJ decisions in the past. Later in the day, U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton announced that the administration was pulling out of an amendment to the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations that gives the ICJ jurisdiction to hear disputes between states. Bolton also told a White House briefing that Washington will review all international agreements that may still expose the United States to purported binding jurisdiction, dispute resolution in the ICJ. We will not sit idly by as baseless politicized claims are brought against us," he said. With reporting by Reuters, AP, AFP, and dpa The top UN court on October 3 ordered the United States to ease sanctions it reimposed on Iran after withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear accord between Tehran and world powers earlier this year. Washington slapped a first round of punitive measures on Iran in August after pulling out in May from the Iran nuclear deal aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions. Iran challenged the move in a case filed in July at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In a preliminary ruling in the case, the ICJ said that exports of "humanitarian" goods such as medicines and medical devices, food, and agricultural commodities" should be allowed, as well as aviation safety equipment. Announcing the decision, the court's president, Judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf, said U.S. sanctions on goods "required for humanitarian needs...may have a serious detrimental impact on the health and lives of individuals on the territory of Iran." Sanctions on aircraft spare parts, equipment, and associated services have the "potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran and the lives of its users," he also said. The ruling is a decision on so-called provisional measures ahead of a final decision on the matter, which may take several years, according to experts. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif called the court decision "another failure for sanctions-addicted U.S. government and victory for rule of law." The U.S. ambassador to the Netherlands, Peter Hoekstra, said it was "a meritless case over which the court has no jurisdiction." He added that the ruling did not go as far as Iran had requested, saying the court issued a narrow decision on a very limited range of sectors." During the court hearings in August, Irans lawyers accused the United States of "economic aggression" and argued that the U.S. sanctions breach a 1955 friendship treaty between Washington and Tehran. U.S. lawyers responded that the reimposition of the sanctions was legal and a national security measure that cannot be challenged at the UN court. Iran's economy plunged into a downward spiral with the national currency, the rial, hitting record lows, following U.S. President Donald Trumps decision to pull the United States from the 2015 nuclear deal. The ICJ rules on disputes between UN member states. Its decisions are binding and cannot be appealed, but it has no mechanism to enforce them. Both Washington and Tehran have ignored ICJ decisions in the past. With reporting by Reuters, AP, AFP, and dpa Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) "Change is not instant; it is a process that takes time, and it should take time." These were the words Transcom's Global CEO Michael Weinreich used to describe the organization's transformation in the recent months. As a global customer experience specialist, Transcom has been changing up its processes and perspectives in an effort to create a world-class organization that will flourish in a highly competitive and changing market. Since becoming President and CEO in September 2017, Weinreich has been leading the changes to transform the company into a more innovative, customer-centric and people-driven organization. Digital world, changing times One such change the company boasts of is the digitalization of many of its systems. Transcom makes use of artificial intelligence for virtual agents, robotic process automation and conversational analytics, among others. Weinreich understands that the global outsourced customer care market is constantly changing, as customers now have an increasing reliance on digital channels and hyperconnectivity. However, he emphasized that the company will always need its people in creating better and smarter customer experiences. "For Transcom, it means that we will need to continue investing in our people, keep their positive energy, cultivate their skills, and add competencies to make us more competitive now and in the future," Weinreich said. Transcom in the Philippines These organizational changes are clearly evident in Transcom's Philippine operations, which comprise more than one-third of the company's total population--now nearly 12,000 employees. Aside from acquiring Davao-based e-commerce customer experience specialist Awesome OS, Transcom Worldwide Philippines is also looking to expand its operations in other provincial cities to accommodate growing demands. Transcom, the largest Swedish-owned business process outsourcing company in the country, currently has several sites in Manila, Iloilo and Bacolod. Manila-based CEO for the Global English Region Mark Lyndsell said he hopes to increase local employment to 30 percent within the next few years. This, in turn, will create thousands of new jobs for Filipinos. Lyndsell's team in the Philippines has also been active in pursuing transformation efforts. Lyndsell is committed to building an inclusive culture of meritocracy and solicitude with the battle cry, "Transcom Tayo!" His team has also successfully implemented digitalization projects to support talent management. The local team has been using artificial intelligence in hiring, virtual reality in training and automated processes for employee benefits administration. A brand new identity To further solidify these new developments within the organization, Transcom is also undergoing a change in its visual identity. "We need a surface that mirrors the company that we've become, that makes us stand out from the competition, and that truly reflects our culture," said Weinreich. For Transcom Worldwide Philippines, the change can be seen through the use of its new brand identity, as reflected in its new infrastructure and design. The company also launched its wellness hub for Manila-based employees in May, as well as a newly-designed lobby at its regional headquarters in Mandaluyong City this October. When asked how all of these changes provide a clear-cut direction for Transcom, Weinreich summed it up with Transcom's new value proposition: being passionate about creating smarter people experiences every day. "In an industry that is focused on customer experience, it is all about people and how we can create smarter experiences for them. We empower our passionate employees with intelligent technology to create an engaged and capable workforce that can deliver excellent customer service," Weinreich said. "We do not cease to look for new ideas and new solutions and test each of them with new contexts. Then we challenge ourselves: Are we really creating smarter people experiences or should we go back to the drawing table?" he added. Ryan Fire determined to be human caused, spreads to 23,779 acres over the weekend Less than a week after the first community meeting at the Grand Encampment Opera House, Rocky Mountain Team Black (RMTB) and other agencies once again gathered in the historic building at 6 p.m. on Sept. 25 to provide updates to area residents on the Ryan Fire. The meeting followed exponential growth of the fire over the weekend of Sept. 22 as it threatened communities within the Skyline and Big Creek area. "I was really hoping this meeting would have a little bit more history, we wouldn't be meeting quite so soon. After the recent activity, we felt like it was very important that we keep you guys in the loop," said Ron Brown, Carbon County Deputy Fire Warden. When the first community meeting was held, the fire was under 10,000 acres but had grown to nearly 20,000 acres over the weekend due to low relative humidity, high winds and ample fuels. Weather a factor "Since we last talked, there's been a couple of challenging days in terms of weather, especially Saturday and Sunday. Those crews have been dealing with relative humidity as low as seven percent. Relative humidity is just a measure of moisture in the atmosphere. Typically, we get down to 15 percent, that's low, but were down to seven percent both days. Also temperatures were running about 10 degrees above normal, generally highs in the lower 70s on the fire," said Shawn Jacobs, incident meteorologist. "Also the winds. Winds were very critical. We had gusts in excess of 30 miles per hour and some as high as 40 miles per hour right near the fire on Saturday and then again on Sunday." Jacobs went on to mention the plume of smoke that had been visible that Saturday. The meteorologist explained to those gathered in the opera house that an unstable atmosphere, often preceding an incoming storm, had contributed to that by providing fresh air to the fire. "It was allowing a lot of fresh air into that fire and it was allowing that fire to generate that plume, generate a lot of its own weather," Jacobs said. The rain that doused the area between Sunday night and Monday morning was also mentioned, with Jacobs informing everyone that a quarter-of-an-inch of rain had fallen on average, but that in some places the fire had seen half-an-inch of rainfall. Before yielding the floor, the meteorologist told residents that he was seeing a trough of low pressure that would drop on the Pacific Northwest and could possibly bring tropical moisture into the area. Jerry Park While the increased growth of the fire and the threat it posed to the Skyline and Big Creek communities was common knowledge, Brown informed the audience that while the fire was moving on that area it had doubled back to Jerry Park. "Last time, we were talking about the Jerry Park area and what we were doing in that area to try and protect that private property and those structures there," Brown said. "For those of you that were here, or on Facebook, I mentioned that we already had scratch lines in place around those structures. The structures had been plumbed, there was a sprinkler system on. They were protected as well as we could protect them at that time." Brown went on to state he had received word late Saturday afternoon the fire had passed to the south of Jerry Park. "We thought we beat it, we thought we had it. At that point pumps were fired, the guys were out, they were in a safety zone. Now, normally, and I use that term loosely, as night falls the humidity comes up, things cool down and the fire activity decreases," said Brown. Late Saturday night, early Sunday morning Brown received a call from Encampment Volunteer Fire Department (EVFD) Chief Cory Nuhn that the Skyline communities were in danger. Brown stressed how abnormal it was for the fire to have traveled from Jerry Park to Big Creek in just a few hours - especially considering the mountainous terrain it had to go over. "It was the following day that I had gotten word that that front that had passed just south of Jerry Park had, in fact, moved north. From what I was told, I've heard anywhere from a two-and-a-half to three mile front, active front, that was moving north all night. It passed through the Jerry Park area and, unfortunately, we lost those structures," Brown said. Brown ended his turn in front of the audience by stressing how important the EVFD had been to the overall efforts of keeping the Ryan Fire from moving any further than it had. "I'm glad that Encampment showed up when they did. They're an awesome bunch of guys. You guys got a lot of good firefighters in this county and I'm sure proud to work with them," said Brown. Time Out "I want to echo what all of these guys have said here about our local firefighters on Saturday night. They were engaged in a fire fight all night long and they did a phenomenal job," said Brush Creek/Hayden District Ranger Jason Armbruster during his time up front. Armbruster also recounted the history of the fire beginning with smoke reports received on Saturday, Sept. 15. According to Armbruster, a crew had been sent out to investigate, but had not seen anything and camped overnight in the area. On Sept. 16, smoke signs were spotted and air support was called in to try and extinguish the fire. High winds, however, forced the aircraft to be grounded and also contributed to the initial growth of the Ryan Fire. The Brush Creek/Hayden District Ranger informed the audience that RMTB was getting close to timing out on the fire and would be replaced by a National Incident Management Team (NIMO). NIMO and Incident Commander Mike Quesinberry were scheduled to take over management of the Ryan Fire on Friday, Sept. 29. While RMTB is a Type II team, NIMO is a Type I team and is adept at a multitude of incidents and can scale up or scale down for what is required by a fire, according to Armbruster. Following Armbruster was RMTB Incident Commander Mike Hatcher, who used his time on the floor to show the audience just how much the fire had grown over the course of 24 hours from 8,658 acres as of Sept. 22 to 19,328 acres as of Sept. 23. The meeting was wrapped up following questions ranging from how the weather had led to the erratic behavior to why RMTB was not using large airplanes to drop retardant. Jay Slagowski, RMTB operations section chief, answered the latter question. Slagowski informed the audience that, while there were large fuel loads due to the amount of beetle kill, the growth of understory would prevent the retardant from getting to the ground and providing any beneficial aid. Following a handful of questions from the audience and Facebook, the meeting was concluded in just under an hour, though some community members stayed after to speak individually with agency representatives. UPDATE: While cool weather and humidity managed to keep Ryan Fire from growing too much during the week, the weekend was another matter as warm temperatures and high winds kicked up the flames for the third weekend in a row. The fire would go from 21,085 acres on Friday morning to 23,779 acres on Monday morning. The growth of 2,694 acres over the weekend is minimal compared to last weekend, when the Ryan Fire exponentially increased in size. Even though the growth of the fire wasn't nearly as much as the weekend before, it would end up forcing an evacuation of Pearl, Colo. and surrounding communities in Jackson County and putting the Skyline and Big Creek communities on pre-evacuation notice, though some locations in the area were evacuated by the Carbon County Sheriff's Department. Saturday afternoon, following the high winds, large plumes of smoke could once again be seen filling the sky. Sunday, however, was even more smoke-filled as the wind blew the fumes from the fire across WYO 230 and towards Medicine Bow Peak. While most of the skies around Encampment and Riverside were blue, between Big Creek Ranch and Skyline it was a dingy brown nearly blotting out the sun. Photo courtesy of NIMO This map provided, by the National Incident Management Organization assigned to the Ryan Fire, shows the growth of the fire as of Monday, Oct. 1. Sunday night, the north end of the fire could be seen from 230 as it worked its way across Bear Mountain and the glow of the flames were reflected by the smoke. On the south end, the fire continued to work towards the community of Pearl and towards the scar from the 2016 Beaver Creek Fire. Excess smoke on that end, however, limited the view of the fire from the highway. It was between Big Creek Ranch and Bear Creek Ranch where the smoke was the thickest, blotting out what was otherwise a clear, starry night. Vehicles driving through the area would find the inside of their vehicles filled with the smell of wood smoke and, at times, ashes falling upon the windshield. Additionally, a preliminary investigation has been completed on the Ryan Fire and determined that it was human-caused due to an escaped campfire. Anyone who may have information on the fire is encouraged to call the fire information line at 307-314-9408. IFAD president Gilbert Houngbo makes the case for a rural transformation backed by affordable technology. Gilbert Houngbo took over the presidency of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in April this year, following posts with other UN agencies and a four-year term as prime minister of Togo. At the UK parliament last week (October 31), the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Agriculture hosted Houngbo for a talk on how IFAD is supporting rural communities as a provider of financing to smallholders through government loans. Theres a need to go beyond agriculture, he said, to achieve a rural transformation so that people are motivated to stay rather than move to cities. Houngbo spoke to SciDev.Net about what that transformation means and about making the necessary technologies not just available, but affordable. You spoke about the need for a rural transformation, not just improving agriculture what does that look like to you? It doesn't matter who you are if you find yourself in a rural area, where you don't have reliable energy, or reliable internet access, or to just go into the city and come back is a pain, or your kids cannot go to the central school of course you're going to look for leaving that rural setting as soon as you can. Let's be honest. It doesn't matter if you improve your productivity by ten-fold or not. So for me it's really about starting to make the rural area an area to have a decent life. Of course with a focus on agriculture as a way of earning enough income, as well as starting to create more non-farm activities. It's what I would call a comprehensive concept. How does technology fit into this bigger vision and IFADs loans? Technology is essential. What I'm advocating is for technology to be not only available, but affordable. So sometimes our [IFADs] loans to the government can be a way to help producers access that technology. Let me give you a clear example. Technology could be access to Internet. And therefore the loan that governments take can be used to make sure that you have wi-fi at the rural level; or to increase the availability of small solar electricity. Another dimension of making technology available is purely making sure that information is accessible to smallholders, and that there is training for them to know what technology is best to use. It can be in terms of how you want to plant, for example. Are there particular examples where that has worked? In IFAD we have several countries where we helped introduce improved planting techniques that have been developed by the government in Brazil [through the EMBRAPA (Agricultural Innovation Marketplace) programme].Before that can happen and that's part of South-South cooperation you need to make sure that your farmers know how to use the equipment. You cannot force them. They have to say yes, I really want to have this. So preparing that ground is a non-lending activity first. Sometimes it's also the know-how that you bring from one country to another. You talked about making the actual farming work less painful. Do you have specific improvements in mind? For me this is where I almost 100 per cent link it to the technology. You just have to go to some countries in Africa or Asia, and you will notice that the equipment being used is still so rudimentary. There's no way you're going to interest a youngster today, who has access to social media, to go and do that for a living. So technology is important for all the equipment you need from preparing the soil to planting, improved seed, small irrigation, and having that small-solar access so that in the evening you can listen to music or charge your cellphone, or produce an activity that complements your farming And it is not just about having the technology, it's being able to produce it at a cost that's much more affordable. Because if poor smallholders see technology that is nice but don't even think about it, this is five years of savings for me, they won't even think it's something they want to have. What needs to happen for that cost to drop? It's the scientific research first. And also sometimes the international community, such as IFAD, contributing to really make the matter known, so that the private sector can start making the necessary adjustments from an impact investment perspective with a scenario where those companies that are developing that technology can make their money, but maybe at a return rate lower than what usually they would expect. This Q&A was edited for brevity and clarity. A mission of 40 NASA scientists is heading to Senegal at the start of August, to help with the planning for the final stage the New Horizons space mission to observe the outer planets. It will also strengthen science in the country, says David Baratoux, the chairman of the African Initiative for Planetary and Space Sciences. After flying past Pluto in 2015, the US space agencys New Horizons probe is now heading for an object the size of a small city, known as MU69. To do this, the NASA team is travelling to Senegal to exploit a stellar occultation where a space object is directly lined up with a distant star which will allow them to observe MU69 using powerful telescopes. As well as providing valuable data on the shape of MU69, the mission aims to establish links between NASA astronomers and scientists in Senegal, according to Baradoux, who spoke to SciDev.Net on the sidelines of the EuroScience Open Forum in Toulouse, France, this week (July 7). What impact will this mission have on research in Senegal? This is a real collaboration between the people from NASA, a group of eight French astronomers supported by CNES (the French national space research centre), and 21 Senegalese scientists who will participate in this observation. Each of these Senegalese scientists will have a chance to join the NASA groups and participate in the training sessions which will have occurred before the actual events. There will be two nights dedicated to training so they will have a chance to know how to observe occultation, and moreover, they will establish very close connections with these NASA people. So we hope from that collaboration to establish long-term collaboration between Senegalese scientists and NASA astronomers. It can be a life-changing event to participate as a child or as a teenager in such an event, David Baratoux, IRD, France . You are based at the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD Institut Francais de Recherche pour le Developpement ) in France. What is your role in this project? I am at the moment the chair of the Africa Initiative for Planetary and Space Science which was launched in 2017, originally to demonstrate that there was a large enough community in Africa willing to start research, higher education projects in astronomy, and space sciences and planetary sciences. We also wanted to demonstrate that there is international support for this idea [of promoting space science in Africa], which means that there were enough scientists all over the world ready to build new partnerships with African colleagues. So that is where we are now. We have made this demonstration [of support for space science in Africa]; we have more than 20 African institutional organisations who have endorsed the initiative; we have more than 350 individual scientists who have also endorsed this initiative, half of them being from the African continent. And we will organise one or two workshops before the end of the year to help to define the science strategy for the development of astronomy and space science, planetary science in Africa. What will that strategy look like? The strategy for planetary and space science in Africa will, of course, depend on the countries. What we would like to see is projects based on local expertise, skills, local facilities. For instance, in Morocco you have one of the most advanced astronomical observatories on the continent, excluding South Africa. So in this particular case the Moroccan astronomers can think about what they would like to develop, in terms of research, with what they have. In other countries they have potential impact craters, meteorites other countries may want to access NASA data from the exploration of the solar system. They can simply use their internet connections and they are skilled in geophysics, in remote sensing, to work on that data. So it really depends on the local expertise. We are hoping to see what people want to do and match it with experts around the world. What is the exact timetable of the occultation? The occultation will take place during the night of the third of August to the fourth of August. It will occur early morning, before sunrise. There will be a lunar eclipse just a week before, on the 27th of July, and some of the French and NASA scientists will be already there for public outreach, taking advantage of this lunar eclipse. There will be conferences and events related to the occultation. Where will the 21 telescopes come from? About five tonnes of equipment is being shipped to Senegal. Some of this equipment has already arrived, and more will be on the way this week. So we will have 21 telescopes, plus cameras, plus some equipment around these telescopes. We will also use 21 cars to scatter the telescopes at different points of observation. The idea is to find the best place to observe, maybe just 24 hours before the occultation takes place, because we need to deal with the weather August in Senegal is the beginning of the rainy season so it will be a huge concern to make sure we have a clear sky to make the observations. So we rely on the weather forecast by the Senegalese agency for weather forecasting, and to make sure that we select the 21 sites at the very last minute to deploy the telescopes. What will happen after these observations have taken place? What I hope is that, like we [now] have the first PhD student in astronomy in Senegal, [that] maybe there will be others. At the moment if you want to do a PhD in astronomy in Senegal it is difficult to find supervision, so the easiest way to start something in research in astronomy is to organise a co-supervision of students involving foreign collaboration. By establishing such kinds of collaboration we would like to offer more opportunities to have other PhD students in astronomy. This has to be done, of course, in coordination with the project of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation in Senegal. What impression will these scientists make? The 21 groups of astronomers that will be scattered all around the country will be in small villages [with] people around them. That will be maybe the first time for them [the children] to see telescopes. They will come and they will be able to share, to discuss with the scientists. What I like with my American colleagues is they really come in the spirit of having an impact on Senegalese science. They dont just want to come, make the observation, and go back. They are really concerned to participate in the development of astronomy in Senegal, and they are willing to share this experience with people. It can be life-changing to participate as a child or as a teenager in such an event. So we are really hoping that maybe a few, maybe a few tens of children will decide to become scientists after this event. Iraqi hospitals were overcrowded last week, as people fell ill after drinking contaminated drinking water in the city of Basra. And this was the starting point of a conversation between SciDev.Net and Hassan Janabi, the Iraqi Minister of Water Resources, during World Water Week which took place in Stockholm, Sweden (August 26-31). The discussion touched on the countrys water crisis including soil salinisation in irrigated areas and conflict with neighbouring countries over rights to the waters of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. We also discussed solutions, the effect of Syrian refugees hosted by Iraq, and how the government manages to provide clean drinking water in a country that suffers from water scarcity. Excerpts Not long ago, polluted water in Basra poisoned thousands of people. Could you elaborate on this incident and the reasons behind it? We have very old infrastructure, and the drinking water distribution network in the ancient city of Basra is very outdated. The city has been a victim of many wars, and also abandonment, which has led to a neglect of the water network and its maintenance. As a result, sewage has leaked into drinking water in some areas, causing this incident of contamination. The only way to avoid this problem is to invest in a new drinking water network with modern pipelines, and to improve treatment of Basras drinking water at the source. The water supply depends on the waters of the Shatt al-Arab river, which unfortunately has been heavily affected by salinisation due to several reasons so fishing, agriculture and drinking water are no longer as they used to be in that area. There is a need to move towards seawater desalination, but of course this needs time, scientific research and investment. What is your plan to address the rapidly growing soil salinity in Iraq? Salinity in Iraqi territory is an old phenomenon. Salt is deposited and accumulated over time due to irrigation techniques. When we irrigate plants water evaporates, and some of the salt that was dissolved in that water gets left behind. If the salts are not continuously washed away from the soil, there will be a high salt content causing a major problem. Because Iraq is an ancient country, and the practice of irrigation goes back to more than four thousand years ago, we need to inform and guide farmers on how to wash salt away from the soil. All of Iraq's arable land about 13 million acres needs reclamation. Right now we are in the process of rehabilitating five million acres and clearing it of excess salinity. To solve the problem of salinisation, funding must be provided. Reclaiming lands will impact positively on the country and the economy, thus creating jobs and increasing agricultural productivity, all of which contribute directly to improving economic and social life. But for the time being, with the problems Iraq faces, the countrys finances leave no space for such steps. We hope that the provisions of Iraq's water and land resources strategy 2015-2035, which shape future water policy, will soon be implemented. How does the Tigris and Euphrates get affected by dams in the region? The water of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers is shared. It comes from upstream countries Turkey and passes through transit countries, such as Syria, and then the downstream countries and unfortunately we are a downstream country. In the old days, we were fortunate that this water came exclusively to us. But since the 1970s, and as our neighbours began to build dams on the two rivers, we lost a large share of it. From our side, we believe that these dams are too large and that they are unsustainable projects that they are not science-based, and do not take into consideration the countries obligations towards international conventions. That is why we are suffering from water scarcity now. Iraq's water share has fallen from 55 per cent to 60 per cent. What are the Ministrys efforts to provide water during a crisis of scarcity? The Ministry of Water Resources is concerned with all matters related to source (untreated) water, and supplying the agricultural sector with water but providing drinking water is the responsibility of other departments and institutions, which are tasked with treating and pumping water into distribution networks, then collecting sewage and then treating the water again for reuse. Generally speaking, there is currently no problem with the availability of drinking water in Iraq, except in the Basra area where the water contamination occurred this [last] week. We hope to control and improve the performance of the drinking water sector in Iraq. This article has been produced by SciDev.Net's Middle East & North Africa desk. Simulations with animal models meant to mirror galactic cosmic radiation exposure to astronauts are raising red flags for investigators at Georgetown University Medical Center (GUMC) about the health of astronauts during long voyages, such as to Mars. Their most recent study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), suggests that deep space bombardment by galactic cosmic radiation (GCR) could significantly damage gastrointestinal (GI) tissue leading to long-term functional alterations. The study also raises concern about high risk of tumor development in the stomach and colon. Their previous work has highlighted potential impairment to brain tissue as well as accelerated aging on long space trips due to the effect of energetic heavy ions, which don't affect Earthlings due to the protective global magnetosphere. "Heavy ions such as iron and silicon are damaging because of their greater mass compared to no-mass photons such as x-rays and gamma ()-rays prevalent on earth as well as low mass protons in outer space," says the study's senior investigator, Kamal Datta, MD, an associate professor in the Department of Biochemistry and a project leader of the NASA Specialized Center of Research (NSCOR) at GUMC. "With the current shielding technology, it is difficult to protect astronauts from the adverse effects of heavy ion radiation. Although there may be a way to use medicines to counter these effects, no such agent has been developed yet," says Datta, also a member of Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. "While short trips, like the times astronauts traveled to the Moon, may not expose them to this level of damage, the real concern is lasting injury from a long trip such as a Mars or other deep space missions which would be much longer" he says. The GI tract is a self-renewing tissue with continuous cell division/proliferation, the researchers say. The mucosal (top) layer of cells is replaced every three to five days through coordinated migration of new cells from the bottom of a flask shaped structure called crypt towards the lumen of the gut. "Any disturbance of this replacement mechanism leads to malfunctioning of physiologic processes such as nutrient absorption and starts pathologic processes such as cancer," says co-author Georgetown's Albert Fornace Jr., MD, director of the NSCOR. To investigate the effect of heavy ions on the GI tract, the scientists used mouse small intestine as a model system. Mice were exposed to a low dose of iron radiation at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (NSRL) in Brookhaven National Laboratory on Long Island, New York, and the animals were then examined at Georgetown. Researchers compared the group of mice that received heavy ions to mice exposed to gamma rays, which are comparable to X-rays, and to a third, unexposed control group. The scientists found that intestinal cells in the heavy ion group did not adequately absorb nutrients and that they formed cancerous polyps. Additionally, there was evidence that iron radiation induced DNA damage that increased the number of senescent cells. Senescent cells are incapable of normal cell division but they are not "quiet," says Datta. "They generate oxidative stress and inflammatory molecules that induce more damage. This greatly affected migration of cells that are needed to replace the intestinal lining which slowed down GI functioning," he says. Even though a very low dose was delivered over the equivalent of months-long period in deep space, the effects of heavy ion radiation appeared to be permanent, says Fornace. "We have documented the effects of deep space radiation on some vital organs, but we believe that similar damage responses may occur in many organs," says Datta. "It is important to understand these effects in advance so we can do everything we can to protect our future space travelers." Tasked to defend the colony from attackers, the specialised soldier caste in some termite species has evolved various impressive mechanisms, including plug-like heads -- meant to block intruding ants trying to invade their lairs, and mouthparts designed to bite and pierce. Still, there are even more spectacular soldiers, such as a recently discovered drywood termite species, whose unique long and slender, stick-like snapping mandibles produce one of the highest acceleration speeds measured in a living organism. Rather than bite, these peculiar 'jaws' deliver powerful strikes at enemies bold enough to stand in the way of the soldier termite and its colony. The scientists describe the new termite's specialty in detail: "Roisinitermes employs a unique strategy of snapping, achieved by long and slender mandibles pressed against each other in a defensive encounter. When this potential energy is released, the left mandible springs over the right and the resultant snap is forced onto the opponent if it is in the path of the strike." Discovered in Cameroon, this striking species is the first drywood termite found to rely on snapping mandibles as a defense strategy. Given that until now there had been a single subfamily (Termitinae) known to have developed such, the very existence of the new insect poses a whole new set of questions before scientists. Have snapping mandibles evolved independently in two evolutionary lineages? Or, is it that these groups share a distant kin relationship which has gone unnoticed for that long? The new drywood termite, which is also assigned to a new genus, is named Roisinitermes ebogoensis, and is described in the open access journal ZooKeys by an international team of researchers, led by Dr Rudolf Scheffrahn of the Institute for Food and Agricultural Sciences at University of Florida, Davie, USA. Although this particular species is not thought to be a pest, some drywood termites cause serious damage to wooden structures around the world. Both colonies studied by the scientists were found near the Ebogo II village, which also stands behind the name of the species. The first unusual colony to draw the attention of the scientists was collected from a forest on an island in the Nyong River, where it lived in a thin (3 cm) and long (over 3 m) broad-leaf tree branch suspended from a canopy. The second one -- in a 15-mm thick dead liana branch hanging from a tree in a nearly pristine rainforest. The team expects that future research will shed more light on the origins and evolution of the newly discovered termite. NORTHAMPTON TOWNSHIP >> After listening to more than four hours of public comment, the board of supervisors on Wednesday night voted to deny Provco its request for preliminary/final land development approval for a new Wawa convenience store and gas station in Holland. The vote brought immediate applause from Holland residents who have been fighting the project for months and who... Scientists from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) have developed a technology where two robots can work in unison to 3D-print a concrete structure. This method of concurrent 3D-printing, known as swarm printing, paves the way for a team of mobile robots to print even bigger structures in future. Developed by Assistant Professor Pham Quang Cuong and his team at NTU's Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, this new multi-robot technology was published in Automation in Construction, a top tier journal for civil engineering. The NTU scientist was also behind the Ikea Bot earlier this year where two robots assembled an Ikea chair in 8 min 55s. Using a specially formulated cement mix suitable for 3-D printing, this new development will allow for unique concrete designs currently not possible with conventional casting. Structures can also be produced on demand and in a much shorter period. Currently, 3D-printing of large concrete structures requires huge printers that are larger than the printed objects, which is unfeasible since most construction sites have space constraints. Having multiple mobile robots that can 3D print in sync means large structures like architectural features and specially-designed facades can be printed anywhere as long as there is enough space for the robots to move around the work site. advertisement The NTU robots 3D-printed a concrete structure measuring 1.86m x 0.46m x 0.13m in eight minutes. It took two days to harden and one week for it to achieve its full strength before it was ready for installation. "We envisioned a team of robots which can be transported to a work site, print large pieces of concrete structures and then move on to the next project once the parts have been printed," explained Asst Prof Pham from NTU's School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. "This research builds on the knowledge we have acquired from developing a robot to autonomously assemble an Ikea chair. But this latest project is more complex in terms of planning, execution, and on a much larger scale." Printing concrete structures concurrently with two mobile robots was a huge challenge, as both robots have to move into place and start printing their parts without colliding into each other. Printing the concrete structure in segments is also not acceptable, as joints between the two parts will not bond properly if the concrete does not overlap during the printing process. advertisement This multi-step process starts by having the computer map out the design to be printed and assign a specific part of the printing to a robot. It then uses a special algorithm to ensure that each of robot arm will not collide with another during the concurrent printing. Using precise location positioning, the robots then move into place and print the parts in good alignment, ensuring that the joints between the separate parts are overlapped. Finally, the mixing and pumping of the specialised liquid concrete mix have to be blended evenly and synchronised to ensure consistency. Professor Chua Chee Kai, Executive Director of the Singapore Centre for 3D Printing said disruptive Industry 4.0 technologies like additive manufacturing, can be advanced even further when combined with other innovative technologies like robotics, AI, materials science and green manufacturing techniques. "This multiple robot printing project is highly interdisciplinary, requiring roboticists to work with materials scientists to make printable concrete. To achieve the end result of a strong concrete structure, we had to combine their expertise with mechanical engineers and civil engineering experts." "Such an innovation demonstrates to the industry what is feasible now, and prove what is possible in the future if we are creative in developing new technologies to augment conventional building and construction methods." This research project was supported by the National Research Foundation, Singapore (NRF Singapore) and Sembcorp Design and Construction, one of the key industry research partners of SC3DP. Moving forward, the NTU research team will look at integrating even more robots to print larger scale structures, optimising printing algorithm for consistent performance and to improve the concrete material for faster curing. Heart experts have long believed that weekday mornings -- and especially Mondays -- were the danger zones for unexpected deaths from sudden cardiac arrests. But a new Cedars-Sinai study shows those peak times have disappeared and now, sudden cardiac arrests are more likely to happen on any day at any time. "While there are likely several reasons to explain why more cardiac arrests happen outside of previously identified peak times, stress is likely a major factor," said Sumeet Chugh, MD, professor of medicine and associate director of the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai. "We now live in a fast-paced, 'always on' era that causes increased psycho-social stress and possibly, an increase in the likelihood of sudden cardiac arrest," said Chugh, the primary investigator on the study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Heart Rhythm. Chugh's team of investigators analyzed data from the community-based Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study between 2004 to 2014. All reported cases were based on emergency medical service reports containing detailed information regarding the cause of the cardiac arrest. Key findings include: Of the 1,535 patients who died from sudden cardiac arrest, only 13.9 percent died in the early morning hours between 6 -- 10 a.m. There was no evidence that more sudden cardiac arrests occurred on Mondays. Aside from stress, other contributing factors may be a shift in how high-risk patients are being treated, as well as inadequacies in how past studies have measured time of death caused by sudden cardiac arrest (such as using time of death found on a death certificate versus time of death when sudden cardiac arrest actually occurred). Although "sudden cardiac arrest" and "heart attack" often are used interchangeably, the terms are not synonymous. Unlike heart attacks (myocardial infarctions), which are typically caused by clogged coronary arteries reducing blood flow to the heart muscle, sudden cardiac arrest is the result of defective electrical activity of the heart. Patients may have little or no warning, and the disorder usually causes instantaneous death. Sudden cardiac arrest accounts for approximately 300,000 deaths each year in the U.S. The Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study is a comprehensive, 16-hospital, multiyear assessment of cardiac deaths in the 1 million population Portland, Oregon, metropolitan area. Led by Chugh, the project -- now ongoing for more than 15 years -- provides researchers with unique, community-based information to help determine the causes of sudden cardiac arrest. "Because sudden cardiac arrest is usually fatal, we have to prevent it before it strikes," said Chugh, the Pauline and Harold Price Professor of Cardiac Electrophysiology Research. "This is just another piece to the puzzle. Our next steps are to conclusively determine the underlying reasons behind this shift, then identify public health implications as a result." What a difference a year of high school can make -- for long-term health. In 1972, England, Scotland and Wales raised the mandatory school attendance age from 15 to 16. Through a large-scale genetic study, USC Dornsife researchers have found that decades later, the change had a health benefit for those students affected by the reform, especially those who were at greatest risk of becoming obese. The extra year of education contributed to weight loss, despite their genetic risk, the research team found. "This means that genes alone do not determine who will become obese," said Silvia H. Barcellos, a research scientist at USC Dornsife's Center for Economic and Social Research (CESR). "In fact in this case, one more year of high school lowered the influence of genes on whether someone becomes obese." Before the mandatory attendance age was changed, 31 out of every 100 people with the highest genetic-risk had an unhealthy body size. After the reform, the rate dropped to 18 out of every 100. Among those with the lowest risk, the rate remained roughly unchanged. advertisement The latest findings were published by the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The study is the latest in a series by the USC Dornsife CESR researchers that examines how the 1972 change in the mandatory school attendance age has affected other life outcomes for the affected students, such as whether they went to college or completed advance degrees, what incomes they earned and their socioeconomic status. Those at greatest risk benefit the most For this study, USC Dornsife researchers studied the genomes of 250,000 people in the UK Biobank. The researchers looked at three health indicators: lung function, blood pressure and a "body size index." This index accounted for BMI (body mass index), body fat percentage and waist-to-hip ratio as comprehensive indicators for healthy and unhealthy weight. advertisement The scientists combined the health information with polygenic scores -- a tool that accounts for variation across a person's entire genome -- to determine how much influence genetics and education may have on health. Exploring nature vs nurture The ever-expanding genetic databases that millions of people have used for checking their genealogy and their genetic risks for disease have become a resource for large-scale genetics studies. Scientists permitted to use the data have been able to identify the genetic variants linked to specific diseases such as breast cancer, disorders such as autism and even educational attainment. "Our results challenge the notion of genetic determinism. They suggest education reduced the role genes played in determining who became obese. Now, we are left with the question of why we observe larger health improvements for those with a higher genetic predisposition to obesity," said Leandro Carvalho, a co-author and research economist at CESR. Three years ago, England adopted a mandate that students must stay in school or training until they turn 18. Those students, like the cohort born in 1957, could experience health benefits as a result of the change. Patrick Turley of the Massachusetts General Hospital was also a co-author for the study. Funding for the study came from several sources, including a portion of a five-year National Institute on Aging grant K01AG050811 of $638,955, and a portion of a second NIA grant 3P30AG024962-13S1, which is a one-year grant of $360,797. Funding also came from the National Institute of Mental Health through a portion of a five-year grant, RF1AG055654, of $4.2 million. Other support came from the Ragnar Soderberg Foundation, the Open Philanthropy Project, and the Pershing Square Fund for Research on the Foundations of Human Behavior. In an innovative study that promises to reduce production costs for the most potent form of vitamin K -- Menaquinone-7, Penn State researchers have developed a novel method to enhance the fermentation process that creates the supplement by agitated liquid fermentation in a biofilm reactor. The new process, assuming it can be scaled up to industrial production, is important because recent studies conducted by universities in the Netherlands and UCLA School of Medicine, among others, show essential health benefits associated with large doses of vitamin K -- especially the Menaquinone-7 form, known as MK-7. These benefits include reducing risks of cardiovascular disease and strokes, osteoporosis, and even battling cancer. Foods that are rich in vitamin K -- such as kale, red meat and egg yolk -- do not provide enough of the vitamin to achieve high-dose therapies, which will require supplements. However, MK-7 production on an industrial level is expensive and limited because the bacterial fermentation needed to create the vitamin so far has relied on "static" fermentation strategies that are inadequate to ramp up output of the vitamin. The present production system -- incorporating shallow trays of solid, soy-based medium growing microorganisms only on the surface -- will not support the expected increased demand for vitamin K, explained researcher Ehsan Mahdinia, a postdoctoral scholar in food science at Penn State. "Using biofilm reactors, however, appears to be a practical alternative," said Mahdinia. "Biofilm reactors provide a controlled environment for the microorganisms to form mature and robust biofilms that enable them to produce value-added products such as vitamin K with increased efficiency." Integral to the ability of biofilm reactors to produce vitamin K are specially designed internal plastic composite supports that microorganisms adhere to and on which they build intertwined colonies -- called biofilms -- that can withstand aeration and agitation needed to spur the microorganisms to secrete more vitamin K. advertisement "The supports [comprise] half plastic and half soybean hulls, with other nutrients mixed in, that are extruded together at high temperatures," said Mahdinia. "The composite material is porous enough to allow microbes to colonize and hold onto it. At the same time, it is hard enough that the supports do not fall apart when they are in the liquid." The study looked at producing MK-7 with an improved fermentation process, comparing the performance of strains of the microorganisms that create vitamin K. Researchers evaluated Bacillus species such as Bacillus subtilis natto, Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus amyloliquifaciens. Bacillus subtilis natto was determined to be the most efficient microorganism to be used in future Penn State studies in biofilm reactors, according to Mahdinia. It is a type of bacteria that produces fermented soy food such as Japanese traditional sticky natto, he pointed out. "Natto is a goo resulting from the microbes partially digesting soybeans, and like all fermented foods, it is very nutritious," he said. "It's basically rotten soybeans. I have been told it doesn't taste good, but I must admit that I have never had the courage to taste it." Finally, researchers experimented with the liquid medium, suspending and feeding the microorganisms in 12-day fermentation runs. The medium started as a soy broth supplemented with 0.8 percent yeast extract. In the study, they tested the addition of glucose and glycerol to the base media in the biofilm reactors. advertisement The carbon source addition seemed crucial in batch fermentations, Mahdinia noted. "Our results indicated that 'fed-batch' strategies can be significantly effective in glucose-based medium, rendering the biofilm reactors a promising replacement for static fermentation strategies. Under the same operational and medium conditions, suspended-cell bioreactors (with no biofilm present) could not reach MK-7 concentrations higher than 8.7 milligrams per liter, while in biofilm reactors concentrations were higher than 28.7 milligrams per liter -- a 2.3-fold enhancement." Ali Demirci, Penn State professor of agricultural and biological engineering, whose research group in the College of Agricultural Sciences conducted the study, has high hopes for this new technology. He is planning to scale up the 2-liter laboratory biofilm reactors and introduce pilot scale fermenters of perhaps 200 liters. "We believe those pilot scale biofilm reactors can produce a significant amount of vitamin K to compete with what is done in industry right now," he said. "Then we hope we can turn this into a patent and go to the industry and say, 'you can easily scale up these liquid fermenters to thousands of liters, similar to what is in use now for bioethanol production.' Each fermenter can reach up to 850,000 gallons of volume and produce much larger amounts of vitamin K." The research, recently published in Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, was Mahdinia's doctoral thesis. He recently graduated with a doctoral degree in agricultural and biological engineering. Also collaborating in the research was Aydin Berenjian, University of Waikato, New Zealand. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture supported this work. A technique using umbilical cord blood stem cells could be a promising new approach for repair of cleft palate in infants, reports a paper in The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, published in the Lippincott portfolio by Wolters Kluwer. Performed as part of reconstructive surgery when the infant is a few months old, the stem cell procedure provides good results in growing new bone to close the upper jaw cleft -- and may avoid the need for later bone graft surgery, according to the case report by Alejandro Garcia Botero, MD, of Hospital De San Jose, Bogota, Colombia, and colleagues. Stem Cells Could Be New Option for Closure of Alveolar Cleft Dr. Botero and colleagues report their experience with the stem cell procedure in an infant with cleft lip and palate, diagnosed by ultrasound before birth. The baby girl had an alveolar cleft, involving an area of bone where teeth are located. Immediately after delivery, a sample of the infant's umbilical cord blood was collected to isolate stem cells, which were processed and frozen to preserve them for later use. Umbilical cord blood is a rich source of various types of stem cells, which have the potential to develop into many different types of specialized cells, including bone and cartilage. "Since the age is that of the newborn, [umbilical cord stem cells] have a greater potential to regenerate the organism," Dr. Botero and coauthors write. For the first few months, the infant underwent a nonsurgical "nasoalveolar shaping" procedure to align the soft tissues of the upper jaw. At age five months, the stem cells were thawed for use as part of "boneless bone grafting" surgery (gingivoperiostioplasty). The stem cells were placed in a pocket of soft tissue bridging the gap in the upper jaw. A small piece of absorbable biomaterial (Gelfoam) was used a scaffold to guide growth of new bone across the cleft palate. This procedure was performed at the same time as surgery to correct the cleft lip (cheiloplasty). Follow-up confirmed formation of new bone to close the cleft palate, providing good position and support for normal eruption of the teeth. Imaging scans when the patient was five years old showed good thickness of the upper jaw bone in the area where the cleft had been. A major potential advantage of the stem cell procedure is avoiding the need for later bone grafting surgery -- currently the standard technique for closing the cleft. This procedure uses bone taken from elsewhere in the child's body, typically the hip. Bone grafting has potential complications and subjects the child to one or more additional surgeries. The study is the first to use stem cells as part of primary surgery to repair cleft palate in an infant. Dr. Botero and colleagues note that their patient will need further monitoring to ensure adequate bone thickness in the upper jaw. The researchers emphasize the need for further studies evaluating their stem cell technique in a large number of patients -- including steps to confirm that bone formation results from the stem cells, and not from the initial "boneless bone graft" surgery. A paper published September 27 in Scientific Reports shows the positive results of a phase II clinical trial using the oral medication DFMO to prevent relapse in children with High Risk Neuroblastoma (HRNB). Neuroblastoma is a form of cancer that develops from immature nerve cells found in several areas of the body. It occurs most often in infants and young children, usually under the age of five. The disease remains a challenge in pediatric oncology and current treatments include therapies that have significant long-term side effects for patients. HRNB accounts for 15 percent of all childhood cancer deaths, in part, due to the fact that nearly half of all patients who reach remission will relapse. "These results are promising and have changed the outlook for our patients with high risk neuroblastoma," said Giselle Sholler, MD, director of pediatric oncology research at Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children's Hospital and principal investigator of the study. "By using DFMO for two years after finishing conventional therapy, we've seen an overall two-year survival rate for these children of 97 percent. This is a large increase in survival," Sholler added. "Previously it was believed that children with refractory and relapsed neuroblastoma were considered incurable. This study shows more than 50 percent of patients remaining in remission up to four years." Beat Childhood Cancer's trial studied the use of difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) as a single agent for enrolled patients at 20 children's hospitals from June 2012 to February 2016. The children received two years of oral DFMO twice daily and were evaluated for outcomes of event free survival (EFS -- i.e., no progression of illness or other complications) and overall survival (OS). The study used targeted oral therapy of an ODC inhibitor (DFMO), as a maintenance therapy to prevent relapse in HRNB patients after standard therapy. DFMO works by targeting specific cancer stem cell pathways and "turning off" the cells, thereby preventing the cancer from growing back. advertisement There were two arms in this study, the first designed for patients who had completed standard therapy, and the second for children who were able to achieve remission after having previously relapsed. Both of these patient populations are at very high risk of relapsing after completing treatment and therefore can be very good candidates for using a maintenance therapy with the goal of preventing relapse. With a median follow up of 3.5 years, the first arm of the study had 100 eligible patients. The results show that two-year EFS was 84 percent and two-year OS was 97 percent. With a median follow up of 3.7 years, the study enrolled 39 previously relapsed patients and the results reported in the journal showed that two year EFS was 54 percent and two-year OS was 84 percent for these children who had previously relapsed. "While these EFS and OS figures at two years are remarkable, the really exciting part of these results is that EFS and OS are stable out to four years," said Patrick Lacey of Beat NB Cancer Foundation, one of the childhood cancer parent-led foundations that funded this clinical trial. "Not only did this oral drug lead to a prolonged and stable remission for the children in this study, but the drug was extremely safe and well tolerated in this patient population." "While many children have been able to attain remission with the current, albeit harsh, upfront therapies, these remissions are not historically durable," Dr. Sholler added. "The current five-year survival curves have not changed significantly in the past two decades despite recent increases in two-year survival as a result of intensified therapies and new multimodal therapies." Principal Investigator at MUSC, Jaqueline Kraveka, MD, states survival for children with high-risk neuroblastoma remains a challenge. "These results are groundbreaking and very exciting for oncologists and their patient families. I am thrilled to have our confirmatory study open at so many sites across the USA and Canada, enabling children to receive this treatment close to home." Hospitals participating in this study included Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, Cardinal Glennon Children's Medical Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Arkansas Children's Hospital, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and Children's Hospital, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children, Levine Children's Hospital, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota, Medical University of South Carolina. Beat Childhood Cancer's DFMO trials are currently open at 40 hospitals in the U.S. and three hospitals in Canada. Computers in the future could be more energy-efficient, thanks to new research from Binghamton University, State University at New York. Devices like drones depend on a constant WiFi signal -- if the WiFi stops, the drone crashes. Louis Piper, associate professor of physics and director of materials science and engineering at Binghamton University, wants to make more energy-efficient computers, so things like drones could be responsive to their environment without worrying about a WiFi signal linking it to a larger computer machine. "You could put 5G and 6G everywhere and assume that you have a reliable internet connection all the time, or you could address the problem with hardware processing, which is what we're doing," said Piper. "The idea is we want to have these chips that can do all the functioning in the chip, rather than messages back and forth with some sort of large server. It should be more efficient that way." Scientists have developed "neuristor" circuits that behave similarly to biological neurons in the human brain, which can perform complex computations using an incredibly small amount of power. More recently, a vital component of this neuristor circuit was created using niobium dioxide (NbO 2 ), which replicates the switching behavior observed in ion channels within biological neurons. These NbO 2 devices are created by applying a large voltage across a non-conductive niobium pentoxide (Nb 2 O 5 ) film, causing the formation of conductive NbO 2 filaments which are responsible for the important switching behavior. Unfortunately, this high-voltage and time-consuming post-fabrication process makes it near impossible to create the dense circuits needed for complex computer processors. In addition, these NbO 2 devices require an additional companion capacitor to function properly within the neuristor circuit, making them more complex and unwieldy to implement. "One of the main problems we have with trying to make these systems is the fact that you have to do this electroforming step," said Piper. "Like with Frankenstein's monster, you basically pulse a large amount of electricity through the material, and suddenly it becomes an active element. That's not very reliable for an engineering step with fabrication. That's not how we do things with silicon transistors. We like to fab them all and then they work right away." In this study, Georgia Tech researchers created Nb 2 O 5 x-based devices that reproduce similar behavior of the combined NbO 2 /capacitor pair without the need for the added bolt of energy. Binghamton researchers verified the mechanism that was being proposed. This finding, said Piper, could lead to more inexpensive, energy-efficient, and high-density neuristor circuits than previously possible, accelerating the way to more energy efficient and adaptable computing. "We want to have materials that inherently have some sort of switching operation themselves, which we can then utilize at the same dimensions where we're meeting the end with silicon. The ability to scale and the ability to remove some sort of alchemy with regards to this electroforming process really makes it more in line with how we do semiconducting processing nowadays; this makes it more reliable. You can build a neuristor out of this, and because you don't need the electroforming, it's more reliable and what you can build an industry on." Now that they've verified the models, Piper and his team want to find out what's going on in the actual device as it's operating. "The real effort at Binghamton has been toward trying to model, from an atomic point of view, the nature of these states, how they arise from physics and chemistry, and also instead of just looking at the inert materials and then correlating it with the device performance, can we actually see how these states evolve as we operate the device?" said Piper. This researcher was supported by a grant from the Department of Defense. The paper, "Scalable Memdiodes Exhibiting Rectification and Hysteresis for Neuromorphic Computing," was published in Scientific Reports. The risk of dying during pregnancy is negligible for the average Danish woman, but if the woman in question has epilepsy, the probability must be multiplied by five. This is the central result presented in a comprehensive epidemiological study that researchers from Health, Aarhus University, are behind. The study is recently published in the journal Neurology and shows that out of approximately two million pregnant women -- including 12,000 women with epilepsy -- a total of 176 women died during their pregnancy. Five of them had epilepsy, which means women with epilepsy are a risk group that we should consider following closer, says one of the researchers behind the study, Jakob Christensen. He is a clinical associate professor, DMSc at the Department of Clinical Medicine at Aarhus University and a consultant at the Department of Neurology at Aarhus University Hospital. "Although the absolute risk is small, we have to consider how we can follow pregnant women with epilepsy better than today," says Jakob Christensen. According to the study, pregnant women with epilepsy die of virtually the same conditions and events that women without epilepsy also die of -- ranging from e.g. accidents to blood clots, cancer and suicide -- although with a greater frequency. "We can't produce statistics on causes of death on the basis of five deceased pregnant women with epilepsy, but we can conclude with great statistical certainty that pregnant women with epilepsy die five times more frequently than other pregnant women," says Jakob Christensen. The research results should be seen in light of the fact that in general, people with epilepsy have a higher mortality rate than the rest of the population. Overall, for women of childbearing age the mortality rate is fifteen times higher. advertisement The relative risk of death is thus lower for women with epilepsy who are also pregnant when compared to all women with epilepsy, which as Jakob Christensen points out, may be due to the fact that it is always the most healthy woman who become pregnant. "As a woman with epilepsy, you are on the one hand affiliated with highly-specialised neurological treatment at a hospital, while on the other hand, you need follow-ups from your general practitioner. Patients in this situation risk falling between two stools and ending up being sent back and forth, as one medical service believes the other is taking overall responsibility and vice versa. This could be a partial explanation for the increased mortality, which is particularly seen in people with epilepsy who at the same time suffer from mental illness -- something that is unfortunately well documented, for example in Swedish patients with mental illness," says Jakob Christensen. "At the same time, we must take into account that the vast majority of pregnant women with epilepsy receive medication and are closely monitored during pregnancy, and that this probably helps to reduce the overall mortality, because close monitoring means that there is better management of their epileptic seizures," he says. The study was conducted in close collaboration between Jakob Christensen, who meets the patients in the clinical reality, statistician Claus Hstrup Vestergaard from the Research Unit for General Practice under the Department of Public Health, and Associate Professor Bodil Hammer Bech, who works with epidemiology at the Department of Public Health. Methodically, the research group has examined a total of 2,110,084 pregnancies between 2000 and 2013. Among these pregnancies, 11,976 (0.6%) were pregnancies among women with epilepsy; in all cases, "pregnancy-related death" was defined as death during pregnancy and up to 42 days after the end of the pregnancy. Mortality among women with epilepsy was compared with the mortality rate for women of the same age and social background. The Danish study is the result of a number of worrying studies from the US and UK which report a tenfold increase in the risk of dying for pregnant women with epilepsy. But things do not look quite as bad in Denmark. "Even though it can be difficult to compare Denmark with the United States and the UK because the healthcare systems are constructed differently, the study indicates that in Denmark, we're better at dealing with pregnant women with epilepsy than they are in the United States and the United Kingdom, which we should naturally be pleased about. But this is of little consolation for the pregnant Danish women with epilepsy who still have a markedly increased risk of losing their lives during pregnancy. And I definitely think that we should take an interest in this as medical doctors," says Jakob Christensen. It is not so long ago that immunotherapy against cancer was positioned as emerging or even promising but not as proven. Novel immunotherapeutics across different tumor types, either as mono therapy or in combination, are increasingly becoming one of the most innovative and powerful anti-cancer strategies. One of the major challenges in ensuring that these novel treatments realize their true potential has been successfully equipping the immune system to launch its attack exclusively on tumour cells excluding all healthy tissues. Up until now. Research led by Joaquin Arribas, Director of Preclinical Research at the Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), ICREA Professor, and Scientific Director of the Center for the Biomedical Research Network in Oncology (CIBERONC), has turned this obstacle into therapeutic opportunity. Published in Science Translational Medicine, the study, first co-authored by Irene Rius-Ruiz, Graduate Student of VHIO's Growth Factors Group, reveals that p95HER2-T cell bispecific antibody (TCB) can successfully guide immune cells, known as lymphocytes, directly to cancerous ones for their targeted killing. This direct delivery is achieved thanks to the p95HER2 protein, which is only located in tumor cells. Representing a new therapeutic avenue and fresh hope for patients who have ceased to respond to current therapies, this novel immune-based approach can be used to tackle certain HER2+ breast cancers through its exclusive targeting of cancerous cells. p95HER2-TCB: guiding the immune system for the targeted killing of HER2-positive breast cancer cells T cell bispecific antibodies constitute a promising approach in harnessing the immune system to mount its anti-cancer response, and represent an increasingly valuable addition to the current arsenal of armory against cancer. Not only are they highly specific but they can also hone in on one protein among tens of thousands, in this particular case, p95HER2. advertisement Furthermore, each antibody molecule has a bipartite structure containing two protein-binding sites. This means that they can simultaneously attach to immune cells and cancerous ones as well as take the lymphocytes hand-in-hand directly to the malignant cells for their subsequent destruction. Acting as a magnet that lures the patient's immune system solely to tumor cells, p95HER2-TCB enables a targeted response by attacking these cells directly without affecting normal cells. "The immune system has the natural capacity to fight against disseminated disease. To do so more effectively, it must be better equipped to recognize and act against malignant cells. While bispecific antibodies are designed to do just that, they often signpost T cells to healthy ones," explains Joaquin Arribas, corresponding author of the study. He continues, "Thanks to the distinct specificity of p95HER2-TCB and p95HER2's exclusive location in tumor cells, we have achieved a 'home delivery' of immune-based therapy. Our findings represent an important step towards ensuring that the immune system can successfully deliver its powerful anti-cancer blows." Immunotherapies for cancer are proving increasingly more effective in the treatment of metastatic disease. Generally, advanced and metastatic cancers eventually develop resistance to different lines of therapies. When patients eventually cease to respond to current therapies, leading to cancer cell spread, they have few therapeutic options available. While the immune system represents powerful weaponry in thwarting the spread of disease, it can only effectively do so by recognizing and launching its attack on malignant cells. "The real added value of our findings is that the bispecific antibody, p95HER2-TCB, directs lymphocytes exclusively to tumour cells harboring p95HER2," observes Irene Rius Ruiz, first author of the study. advertisement Approximately 10% of patients with HER2-positive breast cancers expressing p95HER2 could stand to benefit from this novel strategy. "While our approach can only be extended to a relatively small subset of patients with HER2-positive disease, for those who stand to gain, the benefits could be significant. By more precisely matching novel therapy to a particular patient population, we are getting closer to delivering on the true promise of precision medicine in oncology," says Irene Rius Ruiz. These findings are the fruit of a decade of research at VHIO, beginning with Joaquin Arribas' group's identification of the p95HER2 protein, which was initially used as a biomarker to identify a subgroup of patients with HER2-positive breast cancer who no longer responded to standard therapies. Their later discovery that this protein only resides on the surface of tumour cells as opposed to healthy cells led to the development of a specific targeted therapy. As a leading reference in advancing modelling systems, VHIO is dedicated to delivering the predictive data required to reliably inform the clinical development of innovative agents and evidence reproducibility before moving to the clinic. VHIO's Growth Factors Group focuses on more accurately modeling anti-tumor immunotherapy strategies and has generated humanized patient-derived xenograft models (Hu PDXs), in which the human immune system is established in immunodeficient mice. These experimental models have been invaluable in validating the efficacy of the p95HER2-T cell bispecific antibody. Having now completed the pre-clinical phase of development, Arribas' team will seek to advance the therapy so that it can be administered in humans for investigation in clinical trials. Next steps will also include developing additional therapies against p95HER2 such as antibody-drug conjugates or chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). "These future treatments will likely be as effective and safe as p95HER2-TCB. We are confident that our findings will enable the exclusive targeting of malignant cells by different means through p95HER2," concludes Joaquin Arribas. Reflective of VHIO's purely multidisciplinary and translational research model, several of its preclinical, translational and clinical groups, along with colleagues belonging to CIBERONC, have collaborated in this research. The project has also counted on the participation of other physician-scientists and oncology professionals of the Vall dHebron University Hospital across the Vall dHebron Barcelona Hospital Campus. UB welcomes first fellows of $1.1 million training program to improve study of Zika, HIV and other viruses West Indies fellows will train with SUNY scientists in virology and drug development This new initiative is already in high gear and is stimulating the initial phase of development and growth of Jamaica as a virology research hub in the Caribbean region. BUFFALO, N.Y. The University at Buffalo has accepted the first cohort of fellows into the Global Infectious Diseases Research Training Program, a $1.1 million program formed to train 15 scientists from the Caribbean in viral infection research. Supported by a five-year grant from the National Institutes of Health Fogarty International Center, the program will produce the first of a new generation of virology researchers in Jamaica, improving the study of Zika, dengue, HIV, hepatitis and other viruses. The program is a collaboration between the UB Center for Integrated Global Biomedical Sciences, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at UB, University of the West Indies in Jamaica, State University of New York (SUNY) Upstate Medical University and Jamaica Ministry of Health. Its launch will be celebrated on Thursday, Oct. 4, at 6 p.m. in the Center for Integrated Global Biomedical Sciences on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, 701 Ellicott St., Buffalo. This new initiative is already in high gear and is stimulating the initial phase of development and growth of Jamaica as a virology research hub in the Caribbean region, says Gene Morse, PharmD, lead investigator on the award, director of the Center for Integrated Global Biomedical Sciences and SUNY Distinguished Professor in the UB School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. The scientific collaborations will lead to a needed resource to confront emerging virus infections and foster new approaches in the field among UB, SUNY and University of the West Indies faculty, fellows and graduate students, he says. The four fellows in the programs first cohort include: Michelle Georgiana Brown, MBBS, PhD, who earned a bachelor of medicine, bachelor of surgery and doctorate of medical microbiology from the University of the West Indies. Inshan Ali, MD, who earned a doctoral degree in medicine from Saint Georges University in Grenada. Tiffany Butterfield, doctoral candidate in microbiology at the University of the West Indies. Chadwic D. Mears, who earned a masters degree in medical microbiology from the University of the West Indies. Driven by the shortage of researchers available to conduct immediate studies during the recent outbreaks of the Zika and chikungunya viruses, the Jamaica Ministry of Health named the establishment of a virology research program as one of Jamaicas highest national health priorities. Under the program, fellows will gain clinical and translational science training, as well as develop an expertise in one or more of the following areas: arbovirology viruses transmitted by arthropods, such as mosquitoes and ticks; chronic viral infections that include HIV, hepatitis B and C, and the Zika, chikungunya and dengue viruses; or antiviral drug development. Fellows will alternate periods of training at SUNY research labs under faculty mentors while completing research on endemic or life-threatening infectious diseases at the University of the West Indies. Research training labs in pharmacology, virology and immunology will be established at the University at Buffalo, University at Albany and New York State Department of Healths Wadsworth Center, and Rush University, respectively. The program also engages faculty at the SUNY Downstate Medical Center, SUNY Global Health Institute and UB Center of Excellence in Antiviral Clinical Pharmacology in the Global Virus Network. By increasing the number of virology researchers in Jamaica, the program aims to further advance the development of the Jamaica Center for Infectious Diseases Research, a collaboration between SUNY, University of the West Indies and Jamaica Ministry of Health. Firms are being advised to tread carefully and play it safe amid warnings of the effect that Brexit could have on the construction industry. The Migrant Advisory Committee recently recommended that the government impose restrictions on lower-skilled migrants coming to UK after it leaves the EU. Construction site workers fall into the lower-skilled bracket, and insurance specialist ConstructionInsure has warned that restricting these workers would damage the industry, as it relies so heavily on them. Research from the Construction Industry Training Board, IFF Research and the Institute of Employment Research at Warwick University found that there were 122,094 construction workers in the UK who were born in the EU, which is 45% of workers in the entire industry. ConstructionInsure spokesman Mark Herbert said that losing migrant workers would increase the cost for UK building firms as they would have to recruit and train domestic workers to replace them, and they would have to pay skilled UK workers a higher wage. Herbert has advised firms to be cautious while negotiations are still going ahead. He said: Companies should take steps to protect themselves against Brexit to stop their turnovers plummeting and the best way to do this is to continue with projects that are within their remit, and stick with safe work that they know they can handle comfortably. Whilst Brexit negotiations are taking place it is best to avoid taking on larger and more ambitious acquisitions. If firms take on newer, bigger contracts now, they risk not finishing jobs. It is best to play it safe whilst we find out exactly what the outcome of Brexit will be. He also recommended that they check their insurance is up to date and correct, as they may face uncertainty over wage roll structure and the changing status of who they employ. On September 28, 2018, the Securities and Exchange Commission charged Russell Craig and his company, OneStep Financial Services, LLC with violating the anti-fraud provisions of the federal securities laws by promising investors profits in return for depositing funds into escrow for the purchase or development of real estate properties, and then misappropriating investor funds. The SEC's complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, alleges that in one of the schemes, Craig defrauded an investor of more than $900,000 between 2014 and 2016 and misappropriated over $600,000. Craig misrepresented that the investor's funds would remain in escrow and be used only for the purpose of obtaining a "proof of funds" to purchase a condominium property known as the Heritage Condominiums in Atlanta, Georgia. Craig also misrepresented that, after the property was purchased, the investor would receive a return of the principal plus a profit of approximately 30% in a short period of time. Despite these promises, Craig almost immediately transferred these funds to bank accounts that he controlled or to third parties. The SEC's complaint also alleges that Craig encouraged the investor to take out loans to further fund the investment, misrepresenting that Craig would make payments on the loans with his own funds until the real estate transaction closed. Instead, Craig allegedly used the investor's escrowed funds to make the payments. The SEC further alleges that Craig and OneStep engaged in a similar scheme in late 2017. In this scheme, Craig and OneStep defrauded at least five investors, who were told that their funds were being used for a real estate development project, of $460,000 by guaranteeing high profits and then misappropriating the funds for other purposes. The SEC's complaint charges Craig and OneStep with violations of the antifraud provisions of Section 17(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and Rule 10b-5 thereunder. The SEC's complaint seeks a judgment against the defendants providing for permanent injunctions, disgorgement with prejudgment interest, and civil penalties. The complaint also names Peter Baker, Elizabeth Oharriz, Prestige Global Trading, Ltd., and Diversified Initiatives Consulting & Logistics, Inc. as relief defendants, seeking disgorgement with prejudgment interest against them. The SEC's investigation is led by Christina McGill and Matthew B. Reisig, with assistance from Richard G. Lill, and is supervised by Timothy England and Melissa Hodgman. The litigation will be led by Melissa Armstrong. Former Burnham-On-Sea MP and current Lib Dem councillor Tessa Munt has this week slammed Conservative MPs representing Somerset for failing to gain Westminsters backing to sort out the County Councils financial crisis. Somerset County Council has announced an additional 11 million round of cuts on top of the 11 million announced in February. The council is slashing 130 jobs and has approved a number of cutbacks including the removal of funding for Citizens Advice Bureau services and a reduction in the winter road gritting network from 23 to 16 routes including gritting routes in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge this winter. Tessa Munt, pictured, said this week: When even the Conservative leader of the Council says he feels abandoned by the five local Conservative MPs, you know theres a massive disconnect between what these MPs promised when they ran for election in 2017 and what they are delivering now. MPs arent in Parliament simply to file into the lobby to support the Conservative Government every time theres a vote. They promised to do their best for local people and each and every one of them is failing to do that. Theres plenty that could be done by the Conservative Government to prevent this Conservative-run Council sliding inexorably towards bankruptcy, and the inevitable crisis that will cause for the most vulnerable members of our community. But every one of our MPs is sitting on his or her hands. They failed miserably to make the savings they hoped for last year, so how on earth do they think theyre going to make 22 million of cuts this year? And if they dont, spending will slip further into the red, which means Westminster-appointed Commissioners coming in to run the Councils affairs. Tessa maintains that the Countys five Conservative MPs should have been lobbying hard for the Government to put Somerset into the pilot project to allow the County to keep its Business Rates instead of the money being siphoned off to Westminster. She says: The Government promised that rural counties like ours would receive this support back in 2016 but have failed to deliver. Any MP worth his or her salt would be holding the Ministers feet to the fire now to get this money to us. We have also argued that Government should allow Councils to raise extra money for Childrens Care, in the same way that they have done for adult social care. For the cost of a cup of coffee a week, another 4 million could go to protect vulnerable children. Tessa has thrown down the gauntlet to the Countys MPs to come and speak to Councillors and be briefed on the part they could and should play in dealing with the crisis. The councils leader David Fothergill said the model for funding local authorities is broken and it was absolutely the most difficult set of decisions we have had to consider in making the necessary cutbacks. Burnham-On-Seas MP James Heappey said recently: The financial woes of our county council have brought into sharp focus the age old political quandary of whether people will pay more in tax in order to fund public services. In my short time in politics, Ive found that people will often say that theyd be willing to but when elections come, low tax manifestos win more support. Somerset County Council did the right thing: Whilst wages were stagnant and the financial crisis at its worst, council tax was frozen so that hardworking taxpayers could keep more of their cash. As necessary as that was however, during the same period demand for key council services like adult social care rocketed meaning the council was being asked to do more whilst asking taxpayers for less money. At the same time, the Government in Westminster was grappling with the same challenge. We were running a huge deficit and our national debt was growing quickly. Indeed the interest on our national debt is now the third biggest payment the Government of the United Kingdom makes each year costing us more than the defence of our nation and the education of our young people. Government spending had to brought into balance and that meant some very difficult decisions which included cuts to the money received by councils from central government. Alongside that is the utterly iniquitous funding formula designed by the last Labour Government which works massively to the advantage of cities. The Government has pledged to change this but frankly that hasnt happened quickly enough and so its no surprise that it is rural county councils like Somerset that are struggling most with their finances. Ive spoken in Parliament many times about the funding challenges we face in Somerset and through my chairmanship of the Rural Fair Share Campaign secured a commitment to recalculate the funding formula. But none of that changes that there simply isnt the money in Westminster or at County Hall to deliver everything that people want unless taxes go up. Ill be asking Government for more but I fear well be needing to ask you for more too. Homeless encampments that have sprung up on the shores and parks of Lake Merritt in Oakland will be cleared in the coming weeks as the city attempts to move the population into sturdier housing units. City officials and nonprofit contractors Tuesday were putting the finishing touches on Oaklands third Tuff Shed village installment, located south of the lake, next to the shuttered Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center and across the street from Laney College. Their goal is for the homeless to begin moving in Thursday. There is room for 40 people at the location with two beds in each of the 20 tiny homes, and a curtain divider for privacy. A recent census by the nonprofit Operation Dignity, one of the citys contractors, found there were 65 homeless people living around Lake Merritt. City leaders say some of them will not want to move into the storage sheds, and others may find shelter on their own. This is a voluntary project, said Joe DeVries, an assistant city administrator who heads up homelessness issues. People are not forced into these, but its certainly something that gets people on a path to housing. We dont consider these houses. We consider this moving from a tent to a bed, and then the next step is to move from a bed to real housing. Like at the previous two shed sites farther west in the city one at Sixth and Castro streets, the other at 27th Street and Northgate Avenue this one will have portable toilets, wash stations and weekly shower service via a repurposed bus. The area is enclosed with a chain-link fence and has a case worker on site, with storage units nearby for peoples things. City officials say there are a few minimal ground rules like no drug dealing on the premises but that its a low-barrier way for the homeless to get help. They say that 55 percent of those who cycled through the first site were placed into housing. Once participants get housed, others take their spot. So far, not everyone along the waterfront is eager to move in. Anthony Thompson Turner, 42, who is living beneath the Lake Merritt Boulevard bridge, said he is homeless by choice and doesnt want to be in a monitored system or leave his prime spot. I know how to monitor myself, he said. I dont need a guideline, a memorandum, a list of rules to exist. They think we are incapable of making proper decisions. Turner, who has been homeless for six months, said he might want to get housed again, but not on someone elses timetable. His friend and neighbor, Aideen Wells, 30, said he wanted more information before deciding whether to move into the sheds, which he said do not address the root problems of their plight. More Information SF Homeless Project To read The Chronicle's in-depth coverage of the homeless crisis, go to projects.sfchronicle.com/sf-homeless/ See More Collapse If youre not living with anybody, going half with someone, you cant afford rent anywhere, said Wells, who works as an independent contractor. Its like theyre just giving us fish. You got to teach the people how to fish. Mayor Libby Schaaf has championed the shed project as an emergency intervention. She said giving people keys to their own units, to come and go as they please, is empowering. Sutter Health donated $130,000 to build the sheds, and the city allocated another $500,000 for the sites operations. We are using quick, innovative solutions in Oakland to improve the health and well-being of our most vulnerable to give people the dignity of going to sleep at night behind a locked door with their partner, their pets and their possessions, to know that there are professionals at hand to help navigate that path back to self-sufficiency, Schaaf said. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. But her critics say the shed project is incommensurate with the scope of the problem in Oakland. Some advocates of the homeless population have decried the sites as overly stringent and denounced the city for clearing encampments. The mayor said doing so is about balancing needs. Our unsheltered residents deserve our support and compassion, but so do children who rely on the Junior Center of Art and Science (and) families who rely on Lake Merritt as the place to find refuge and connection with nature, she said. City officials said the homeless camps have caused more than $500,000 in damage to a wetland restoration area that Oakland is required to maintain under an agreement with the regional water board. DeVries said one campers fire nearly burned down the Rotary Nature Center on the north shore of the lake. Schaaf stressed that the citys homeless services go beyond the three shed sites. The city is pumping new state funds and other dollars into projects such as a rapid rehousing program and a second transitional housing building thats expected to have at least 70 beds when it opens later this year. Kimberly Veklerov is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kveklerov@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @kveklerov The San Francisco Police Commission will vote Wednesday on whether to adopt a more inclusive approach toward transgender, gender-variant and nonbinary individuals who are detained or arrested. Under the proposal, officers would ask such TGN individuals for their preferred names and pronouns, and whether they have a preference on the gender of officers who perform body searches when necessary. Officers could also be barred from asking for proof of a persons gender or anatomical details unless necessary for a citation or investigation. It shows transparency that the department is being robust with guidance regarding interactions that have been going on for a long time, said Officer Broderick Elton, the San Francisco Police Departments transgender liaison. A detained TGN individual would also be transported to an appropriate detention facility rather than a holding cell or booking area at a district station under the proposed guidelines. In the past, San Francisco police have received complaints about officers treatment of transgender individuals, and distrust in the community. A 2015 report from the San Francisco Human Rights Commission found that only 46 percent of transgender respondents believed police would help them in a time of need. Despite the proposed changes, transgender advocates have said the policy still has too many loopholes to be transformative. Flor Bermudez, legal director of the Transgender Law Center in Oakland, said its exceptions make it essentially useless for anyone detained. For example, a watch commander would be allowed to override a TGN individuals preference for a body searcher if that gendered staff is unavailable, she said. Its clear that all citing arrestees may have to prove their gender, Bermudez said. There is zero protection for arrestees. Nor would the policy apply to the state-mandated Stop Data Collection System, which requires officers to report their perceptions of personal identifying factors of people they stop, critics said. Putting the onus on the officer to guess an individuals gender, or rights for specific treatment, triggers another concern, said Theresa Sparks, a transgender woman and former police commissioner. A reasonable guess flies in the face of what weve been teaching the department for years, she said. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. Sparks said the commission should clear up any conflicts with the citys non-discrimination ordinances before it votes, especially because city agencies have been training to fight implicit bias and identity profiling for years. Sgt. Gary Buckner, who helped shape the policy proposal, called the changes the right policy, and he suggested the state Department of Justice alter the data collection system to avoid using perceptions. Buckner said the commission had consulted with a working group of transgender and non-binary officers, including Elton, along with the San Francisco Human Rights Commission, the state Department of Justice and the San Francisco Sheriffs Office. The Transgender Law Center said it was not contacted during the process. In February, the Sheriffs Office announced a similar policy to take deputy gender preference into account when inmates are subject to a visual body search or strip search. The police commission meets at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at City Hall. Gwendolyn Wu is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: gwendolyn.wu@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @gwendolynawu Tuesday was a special day for history in San Francisco as the Postal Service showed off its new stamp commemorating the centennial of World War I. A gathering of old veterans and young men and women in uniform gathered to honor the memory of those who served in what they called The Great War. We are here to honor a generation that can no longer speak for itself, said Col. Fred Rutledge, a historian who is director of museum operations for the California Military Department. There are no more World War I veterans left, but they are a part of who we are and how we got here. Rutledge, who has more than 27 years of military service, wore the brown Army uniform of a century ago, complete with a leather belt and riding boots. He paused for pictures with a color guard of ROTC cadets from the University of San Francisco, all of them wearing modern camouflage uniforms. Bill Wang, a college freshman, said the cadets were there to pay respects to those who fought in the war. Were here to honor them and their service, said Wang, who has not served in the military but said he is thinking about it when he finishes college. However, the main emphasis at Tuesdays ceremony was not about the future, but the past. I think World War I was the most significant event of the 20th century, said J. Michael Myatt, a retired Marine Corps major general who was one of the speakers at the short ceremony. The armistice that ended the first world war 100 years ago next month was only a pause, Myatt said, to be followed by a second and even more terrible world war. And we are still fighting it, he said. Myatt praised the unsung contribution of the Postal Service in wartime. He is a veteran of the Vietnam and Persian Gulf wars, both fought before the time of instant communications on the internet. These were wars when mail from home was really important, he said. I remember my first tour in Vietnam, he said. I spent 13 months there and never talked to my wife once. It was all by mail. When you got a letter from home, you didnt read it once. You read it over and over. You read it 10 times. It was a great morale booster. In the internet age, mail from home is much less important. I bet young people dont even know what postage stamps are, said Robert White, an Army veteran who is working on San Franciscos Fleet Week. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. Stamp collectors surely do. Many were on hand to buy the World War I stamps at 50 cents each. They also got special cachet envelopes with commemorative World War I drawings from the Army, Navy and Marines, including the women in wartime service, local heroes and the 369th Infantry regiment made up of African American soldiers known as the Harlem Hellfighters. Each of these came with a special cancellation War Memorial Veterans Building station, San Francisco CA, 94102. The postmark made the envelopes one of a kind and valuable to collectors, said Ed Flowers, a retired Marine Corps sergeant and an avid stamp collector. Postal Service spokesman Augustine Ruiz got in the last word for military mail. He met his wife on a blind date in Illinois while he was on leave from the Navy. They clicked, but he had to go back to sea aboard a submarine. They agreed to write. The submarine rarely saw port, so mail call didnt come often and her letters came in a bunch, dozens at a time. After months and months of writing back and forth, she agreed to marry him, thanks to the post office. That was the greatest pitch letter I ever wrote, he said. They have been married for 50 years. Carl Nolte is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: cnolte@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @carlnoltesf Its been threatened for nearly two years now, its official. Sort of. The mayor of Osaka, Japan, sent a letter to Mayor London Breed this week saying his longtime threat of ending the sister city relationship between Osaka and San Francisco is now reality. The relationship, he wrote, is severed. At issue is the Column of Strength statue in St. Marys Square that honors comfort women, the name given to the estimated 200,000 women from China, Korea and the Philippines forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese military during World War II. Many officials in Japan say the number of comfort women and the severity of their treatment is exaggerated. They also say their country shouldnt be singled out for wartime atrocities when so many countries have committed terrible acts of war. Osaka Mayor Hirofumi Yoshimura asked the late Mayor Ed Lee and then Breed to remove the statue from public land or risk severing the sister-city relationship. Both declined. The very relationship of trust between our cities, which was constructed over years of friendly exchanges, has ended up declining significantly, Yoshimura wrote. I have arrived at the conclusion that the continuation of the sister city relations is no longer possible. Lillian Sing, a former San Francisco Superior Court judge who helped spearhead the statue, condemned Yoshimuras decision. Were very saddened by his actions, she said. It provides no leadership and no vision for the future except for his continued denial of history. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. Jeff Cretan, spokesman for Breed, said the sister city relationship isnt one between two mayors, but between two groups of citizens. And that wont change. The mayor is disappointed Mayor Yoshimura doesnt want to maintain ties between our governments, but were committed to our sister city relationship that will continue between our San Francisco and Osaka sister city committees, he said. We want them to continue to maintain that relationship. And for the record, Cretan added, the statue isnt going anywhere. Heather Knight is a San Francisco Chronicle columnist. Email: hknight@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @hknightsf A man who was fired from an East Bay hot dog chain for taking part in the infamous and deadly white-supremacist rally last year in Charlottesville, Va., was one of four men charged with conspiracy and inciting a riot in the East Coast city, prosecutors said Tuesday. Federal prosecutors said Cole Evan White, 24, of Clayton and three alleged accomplices were affiliated with the Rise Above Movement, a racist and anti-Semitic organization based in Southern California that trains its members in martial arts for street fighting. Although the charges were related only to Charlottesville, investigators said the group also engaged in violence at demonstrations in Berkeley and Huntington Beach. In Charlottesville, white supremacists organized a torch-lit march Aug. 11, 2017, and a rally the next day to protest the citys planned removal of statues of Confederate Gens. Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson. At the march, they chanted Jews will not replace us and the Nazi slogan Blood and soil. At the Aug. 12 rally, one of the demonstrators drove his car into a group of peaceful counterprotesters, killing Heather Heyer, 32, of Charlottesville. Federal prosecutors did not implicate the four California men in Heyers death. But an FBI affidavit, unsealed Tuesday, described the men as among the most violent individuals present in Charlottesville and said they traveled there with the intent to encourage, promote, incite, participate in, and commit violent acts in furtherance of a riot. White was photographed using his torch as a weapon at the march, and the next day was seen head-butting a clergyman and a female counterprotester, said the affidavit, prepared by a Virginia state police officer assigned to an FBI task force. The woman suffered severe lacerations, according to court records. Twitter users later identified White in a photo of the rally, and he was promptly fired by the Top Dog hot dog chain in Berkeley, where he had worked as a cook. The company posted a sign on the doors of its three restaurants in Berkeley and Oakland saying, The actions of those in Charlottesville are not supported by Top Dog. The charges were filed Aug. 27 at the U.S. District Court in Charlottesville but remained under seal until Tuesday, when prosecutors said all four men were arrested. The others were identified as Benjamin Daley, 25, and Thomas Gillen, 34, both from Redondo Beach (Los Angeles County), and Michael Miselis, 29, of Lawndale (Los Angeles County). All four had also taken part in violence at rallies in the Orange County community of Huntington Beach in March 2017 and in Berkeley the following month, the FBI affidavit said. The four men traveled to these events as part of the Rise Above Movement, which has been compared by the Northern California Anti-Racist Action to the film Fight Club for its fetishization of masculinity, physical fitness, and violence mixed with the shallow anti-corporate and consumerist themes of the film, according to court records. Tuesdays charges cast a new light on the more extreme elements behind events such as a Berkeley rally held April 15, 2017 at Martin Luther King Jr. Park. The rally, initially billed as an event led by President Trump supporters, was organized by groups, including the Rise Above Movement and Oath Keepers, another far-right group. Counterprotesters branded as antifa, or anti-fascist, clashed with far-right activists and white supremacists. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. It was one of a series of right-vs.-left confrontations at Berkeley in 2017, starting with an antifa disruption of a largely peaceful demonstration in February that led to the cancellation of a campus speech by far-right commentator Milo Yiannopoulos. Yiannopoulos later spoke briefly at a small, privately sponsored campus gathering in September, during events that a conservative UC Berkeley group labeled Free Speech Week. Before that, another conservative commentator, Ann Coulter, scheduled and then canceled a speech at the university, and school officials said they had spent millions of dollars on security for the actual or expected political confrontations. Months later, Trump ignited a furor when he said there were very fine people on both sides of the Charlottesville mayhem. In a statement Tuesday after the charges were unsealed, the U.S. Attorney in Charlottesville, Thomas Cullen, said the case reflected the Department of Justices commitment to protecting the life, liberty and civil rights of all our citizens. White is scheduled to make his first court appearance Wednesday in Oakland before being transferred to Virginia. Bob Egelko and Ashley McBride are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com, ashley.mcbride@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @bobegelko, @ashleynmcb President Trump participated in dubious tax schemes during the 1990s, including instances of outright fraud, that greatly increased the fortune he received from his parents, an investigation by the New York Times has found. Trump won the presidency proclaiming himself a self-made billionaire, and he has long insisted that his father, legendary New York City builder Fred Trump, provided almost no financial help. But the Times investigation, based on a vast trove of confidential tax returns and financial records, reveals that Trump received the equivalent today of at least $413 million from his fathers real estate empire, starting when he was a toddler and continuing to this day. Much of this money came to Trump because he helped his parents dodge taxes. He and his siblings set up a sham corporation to disguise millions of dollars in gifts from their parents, records and interviews show. Records indicate that Trump helped his father take improper tax deductions worth millions more. He also helped formulate a strategy to undervalue his parents real estate holdings by hundreds of millions of dollars on tax returns, sharply reducing the tax bill when those properties were transferred to him and his siblings. These maneuvers met with little resistance from the IRS, the Times found. The presidents parents, Fred and Mary Trump, transferred well over $1 billion in wealth to their children, which could have produced a tax bill of at least $550 million under the 55 percent tax rate then imposed on gifts and inheritances. The Trumps paid a total of $52.2 million, or about 5 percent, tax records show. The president declined repeated requests over several weeks to comment for this article. But a lawyer for Trump, Charles Harder, provided a written statement on Monday, one day after the Times sent a detailed description of its findings. The New York Times allegations of fraud and tax evasion are 100 percent false, and highly defamatory, Harder said. There was no fraud or tax evasion by anyone. The facts upon which The Times bases its false allegations are extremely inaccurate. Harder sought to distance Trump from the tax strategies used by his family, saying the president had delegated those tasks to relatives and tax professionals. President Trump had virtually no involvement whatsoever with these matters, he said. The affairs were handled by other Trump family members who were not experts themselves and therefore relied entirely upon the aforementioned licensed professionals to ensure full compliance with the law. David Barstow, Susanne Craig and Russ Buettner are New York Times writers. On May 27, Ingushetias Muftiate (The Muslim Spiritual Center of Ingushetia) excommunicated Yunus-bek Yevkurov, head of the autonomous republic in Russias North Caucasus. According to the head of the Muftiate, Isa Khamkhoev, the excommunication implies that Yevkurov is no longer a Muslim and is not allowed to participate in wedding and funeral ceremonies or other Muslim events in the republic. The Muftiate motivated its decision with Yevkurovs persecution of the religious community, the illegal use of administrative resources to lobby against the Muftiate, and the use of security forces to seize land allocated for a mosque in the capital city Magas. Notwithstanding the excommunication, Yevkurov was reelected as the head of republic in the September 9 local elections. BACKGROUND: Russias then President Dmitry Medvedev appointed Yevkurov head of Ingushetia in 2008. In the 2000s, an Islamist insurgency spreading from neighboring Chechnya and Dagestan ravaged the tiny mountainous republic. Yevkurovs military background and connections in the Kremlin made him a suitable candidate for restoring Moscows control over the restive republic. Unlike Chechnyas Ramzan Kadyrov, who exclusively practiced heavy-handed repression, Yevkurov combined counterinsurgency with dialogue. Keen to distinguish between peaceful Salafis and Islamist insurgents, Yevkurov worked towards legalizing Salafi mosques and merging them with official Muftiate-controlled Sufi communities. This policy appeared to effectively undermine support for the insurgency amongst peaceful Salafi communities, but put Yevkurov on a collision course with Khamkhoev, the leader of the Muslim community. In 2009, Khamkhoev launched a campaign to elect a new head of the republic, while Yevkurov was hospitalized after a failed assassination attempt by Islamists. The conflict intensified after mutual accusations led Yevkurov to close a religious radio station, as well as force mosque authorities to video record all religious sermons. In 2016, Yevkurov attempted to abolish the Muftiate and Russias Ministry of Justice had to mediate a peace treaty to enable dialogue between Yevkurov and the religious community in 2017. However, the peace lasted less than a year as both sides re-engaged in the power struggle. IMPLICATIONS: Yevkurov maintains that the Muftiate decided to excommunicate him in anticipation of the September 9 elections. As previously, Khamkhoev engaged in active campaigning against Yevkurovs candidacy for re-election, accusing him of rampant corruption and disrespect for Ingush traditions enshrined in the Sufi current of Islam. The decision to excommunicate Yevkurov was taken during the holy month of Ramadan, implying that the Muftiate sought to alienate the majority of Sufi worshippers from Yevkurov. Although there is no active political opposition to Yevkurov, there are several influential businessmen who support the Muftiate, and the religious community was seeking to promote them as alternative candidates. Despite the Muftiates efforts, Yevkurov was reelected. The head of the Spiritual Council of Russias Muslims, Ildar Aliautdinnov, supported Yevkurov despite the excommunication. Aliautdinnov claims that there is no legal basis in Islam for excommunicating the head of the republic, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. This means that the Ingush Muftiates excommunication has no real force outside the republic. A few days after his excommunication, Yevkurov organized a Ramadan reception attended by clan elders and local Islamic scholars, indicating that notwithstanding the excommunication, he still has the support of several Sufi Muslims. Nevertheless, the Ingush Muftiate has found an active supporter in Chechnyas Kadyrov, who openly supports Khamkhoev against Yevkurov. Since the Chechen and Ingush Muftiates belong to the same Sufi current of Islam, the two religious communities maintain close connections. This has enabled Kadyrov who exercises absolute control over Chechnyas religious community to interfere in the neighboring republics politics. Kadyrov has frequently accused Yevkurov of being too soft on Islamists and would certainly like to see him removed from his post. From Kadyrovs point of view, Yevkurovs efforts to create a dialogue with Salafis and allowing them to build Salafi mosques creates a dangerous precedent for the region. The Chechen leader has built his career on ruthless persecution of Salafis and strong support for Sufi sects, and any effort to strengthen Salafi communities or offer them similar rights as those awarded to Sufis would undermine Kadyrovs position in Chechnya. Kadyrovs interest in supporting Ingush clerics also stems from his aspiration to present himself as a leader of all Russias Muslims. To achieve these ambitions, Kadyrov is seeking to gather as much local support as possible to challenge the Spiritual Council of Russias Muslims. Since the start of the excommunication scandal, the Kremlin has been persistently silent. Moscow is satisfied with Yevkurovs service and wants to keep him as the head of republic. Yevkurov is a member of the siloviki (Power Ministries) and a loyal supporter of Putin. The Kremlin also wants to limit Kadyrovs influence in the region and to avoid the appointment of someone loyal to him as head of Ingushetia. Since Putins return to the presidency in 2012, Russias governance strategy in the North Caucasus has been to prevent one regional leader from achieving a dominant position over the other federal subjects. Yevkurovs conflict with the local Muslim community undermines his image and popularity in Ingushetia, which is of some concern for Moscow. However, as demonstrated by the recent government reshuffles in Dagestan, the Kremlin prefers loyal, dependent and relatively weak leaders to govern the North Caucasus. The ongoing conflict with the Muftiate ensures that Yevkurov will be unable to strengthen his rule and distance himself from the Kremlin in a manner similar to Kadyrov. Given that the Muftiate, unlike Yevkurov, has no direct communication with the Kremlin, Moscow perceives the current conflict as an effort to influence its choice of a candidate for election. Despite the formal elections, the candidate for the head of republic still has to be endorsed by Moscow, which has thus far prevented any undesirable candidates from entering the elections in the autonomous republics of the North Caucasus. Indeed, on July 24 the ruling United Russia party officially requested President Putins endorsement of Yevkurovs candidacy for the September 2018 elections. The Russian President endorsed Yevkurov, by the same token as an earlier successful request to Putin from United Russia to endorse the incumbent head of Dagestan, Vladimir Vasilyev. CONCLUSIONS: With tacit support from the Kremlin, Yevkurov is expected to prevail in the conflict with the Ingush clergy, regardless of the Chechen support for the Muftiate. Yevkurov will continue to use his position as the head of republic to weaken the Muftiate and possibly abolish it. Yevkurovs reelection in September grants him five more years in office to undermine the Muftiate and to replace it with a more accountable and loyal religious institution. However, the conflict between the head of Ingushetia and its highest religious authority will likely create divisions among followers of the traditional state-supported Sufi branch of Islam, which could draw more disaffected Sufi believers into the camps of Salafi followers. Yevkurovs ability to balance between the Sufi majority and Salafi minority throughout his previous terms in office will likely come under test after his reelection, as he will face the unpleasant reality of either reconciling with the rebellious Muftiate or destroying it, perhaps at the expense of allocating more power to Salafis. AUTHORS BIO: Huseyn Aliyev is a LKAS Research Fellow at the School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow. He specializes in armed conflicts, non-state armed groups, and informal practices. Huseyn is the author of When informal institutions change. Institutional reforms and informal practices in the former Soviet Union (University of Michigan Press, 2017). Huseyns most recent publications appeared in Third World Quarterly (2017), Terrorism and Political Violence (2017), Security Dialogue (2016), and International Security (2015). Image source: By: kremlin.ru accessed on 10.2.2018 Marcio Jose Sanchez / Associated Press The San Francisco SPCA is proud to support Proposition 12, the Farm Animal Confinement initiative. This reasonable ballot measure would prohibit the cruel factory farming practice of locking mother pigs, egg-laying hens and calves in cages so small they can barely move an inch for their entire lives. California veterinarians, our fellow animal shelters and responsible farmers across the state agree: Its time to end this barbaric and unnecessary practice. No animal not a cat or a chicken or a dog or a pig should be treated like this. In 2008, nearly two-thirds of California voters voted for Proposition 2, which required that hens, pigs and calves be given enough space to turn around and extend their limbs. This was a big step in the right direction and significantly reduced animal suffering. Many California egg producers converted to cage-free housing. Large companies like McDonalds, Burger King, Taco Bell and Walmart and countless small businesses enacted policies to switch to cage-free eggs and meat. And at least 12 states followed Californias lead in banning forms of extreme confinement. | BY Ricki Green | In a move that reflects the continued momentum and direction of the business, Dentsu X Australia has welcomed David Chase into the role of group digital director. A data driven, senior marketing professional with a combination of in-house and agency experience, Chase joins the business from Credit Repair Australia where he was senior marketing manager. In his new role, Chase joins the Dentsu X Leadership Team with responsibility for digital, data and innovation including optimisation of digital performance delivery, and value realisation of customer life time value in line with client needs. Chases digital expertise and reputation for delivering measurable outcomes, complementary of optimum customer experience, further bolsters the Dentsu X offering under the leadership of national managing director, Angela Tangas. Says Tangas: This is an important appointment for us, and one that truly reflects the future of the business. Davids track-record speaks volumes data-led strategic solutions that deliver results. Combined with our shared commitment to unlock value throughout and beyond the customer journey, it promises to be an exciting time for the team and our clients. Says Chase: Im thrilled to be joining Dentsu X at such a transformational time, and look forward to working with Angela and the team to continue shaping the business for ongoing and increasing success. Under Tangas leadership, Dentsu Xs structure in Australia has been overhauled to focus on cross-channel specialisation and expertise to deliver value throughout and beyond the customer journey. The last time Sen. Dianne Feinstein debated an opponent in a Senate election was in 2000. That means no voter under age 35 has had the privilege of deciding whom to send to Washington after seeing Californias senior senator match wits with a campaign foe. Were a little more than a month from election day, and so far, Feinsteins debate-free campaign streak lives on though maybe not for long. Its possible shell actually share a stage with her opponent and fellow Democrat, state Sen. Kevin de Leon. Weve seen DiFis debate tap dance before. Six years ago, I asked Bill Carrick, Feinsteins longtime campaign consultant, why she wouldnt debate her opponent that year, Republican Elizabeth Emken, whom Feinstein was drubbing in the polls. I dont know if this makes much sense, he told me. After all, Carrick said, Feinstein didnt debate state Sen. Dick Mountjoy in 2006, and he was an elective officeholder. When I called Carrick this week, it seemed that little had changed. Oh, come on, Carrick told me. I couldnt have got you to cover an Emken debate if I brought you there with a police escort. He could have at least tried. Who could turn down a police escort? Especially if he threw in a pizza. But lets be real: de Leon is no Emken. Emken had never held political office. De Leon is the former state Senate president pro tem and has been endorsed by the California Democratic Partys executive board. De Leon has also been endorsed by three California House members including Rep. Ro Khanna of Fremont along with five members of the Board of Supervisors in Feinsteins hometown of San Francisco and the 2.1 million-member California Labor Federation. I heard Feinstein promise The Chronicles editorial board in April that she would debate her opponent. Every major news outlet in the state, including The Chronicle, has offered to co-host a throw-down. De Leon even volunteered to travel to Washington, D.C., to debate Feinstein, since she says she has been too busy with the Supreme Court confirmation hearings to participate. (By the way, the hearings didnt stop fellow Senate Judiciary Committee member Sen. Ted Cruz from scheduling three debates with his Democratic challenger in Texas, Rep. Beto ORourke.) Youve got to be able to walk and chew gum at the same time. Voters deserve the dignity and respect of a conversation about the issues that affect them, de Leon spokesman Jonathan Underland told me. In California, we hold elections, not coronations. Carrick insisted that there will be a debate. And indeed, there may be some sort of event featuring de Leon and Feinstein in mid-October. A spokeswoman for the nonpartisan Public Policy Institute of California told The Chronicle on Wednesday that the organization is very close to finalizing a date in San Francisco. Terms are still being negotiated, but it could end up being a conversation in which a moderator would ask questions and the candidates would have timed responses. Whether that's a debate is a debate unto itself. Theres one more twist to this story: De Leon hasnt debated one of his opponents for legislative office since 2006. Why not? According to Underland: We were never asked. Tax dodge: Speaking of waiting for things that will never happen, Republican gubernatorial candidate John Cox told The Chronicle he will not release any more of his tax returns even if he is elected governor. The candidate whose not-too-catchy anticorruption catchphrase is, Its time to clean out the barn, has shown summary pages of his 2016 and 2017 returns to reporters, along with forms that showed his interest, dividends and deductions. But the tax return barn door is about to close. Im a private individual, I have a lot of businesses with a lot of partners, and a lot of people who didnt bargain to have their information shared, Cox told me on my Its All Political podcast. So I dont think its reasonable. I released enough to give people an idea where my income comes from. ` ` His Democratic opponent, Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom reported nearly $1.3 million in adjusted gross income between him and his wife in 2016, according to tax returns provided by his campaign. Newsom has shown the media his tax returns dating back to 2010, but not his 2017 forms yet. The history is mixed on this. Gov. Jerry Brown never let reporters see his tax returns during his last two gubernatorial campaigns. Govs. Pete Wilson and Arnold Schwarzenegger did. Cox sits atop a business empire that includes a legal and accounting firm, plus he owns more than 2,700 housing units in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky. But we wont be seeing the financial details of any of that going forward. Im entitled to my privacy just like everybody else, Cox said. Even as the most visible public figure at the top of the worlds fifth-largest economy? My businesses arent in California, he said. Its not relevant to anything I do as a public official. With the growing number of candidates refusing to open their books, the nonpartisan Brennan Center for Justice recommended this week that Congress require the president and vice president, and candidates for those offices, to publicly disclose their personal and business tax returns. Thats long overdue. Rock the court: With the possibility of a Senate vote coming up as early as Friday on confirming Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court, some nominally neutral groups are rallying opposition to him. Among them is Rock the Vote, a nonprofit that tries to get young people to register to vote. It is asking its 3.7 million members to oppose Kavanaugh. But isnt Rock the Vote supposed to be nonpartisan? This is not about partisanship this is really just about the issues that young people care about, and we represent young people, Rock the Votes executive director, Carolyn DeWitt, told me on my Its All Political podcast. On basically every issue that we see young people care about, he comes out on the other side of it. Those issues include abortion and gun control, DeWitt said. But while young people may care about such issues, they dont always care enough to cast a ballot during the 2014 midterm elections, only 16 percent of people ages 18 to 29 who were eligible to vote actually did so. Perhaps, DeWitt said, what happens Friday could juice that turnout. Joe Garofoli is The San Francisco Chronicles senior political writer. Email: jgarofoli@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @joegarofoli With just over a month to go before the Nov. 6 midterms, a flurry of polls and independent studies shows theres movement going on in the California congressional races and most of it favors the Democrats. Just last week, for example, Inside Elections, a nonpartisan newsletter, upgraded Democrats chances in five GOP-held congressional districts. Seats held by GOP Reps. Jeff Denham of Turlock (Stanislaus County), Steve Knight of Lancaster (Los Angeles County) and Mimi Walters of Irvine (Orange County) all were changed from Tilt R to Toss-up by Nathan Gonzalez, who runs the newsletter. It was even worse for longtime GOP Rep. Dana Rohrabacher of Costa Mesa (Orange County) and Republican Diane Harkey, who is seeking the seat now held by retiring Rep. Darrell Issa of Vista (San Diego County). Inside Elections has moved those formerly toss-up contests into the Democratic column. A poll that Siena College did for the New York Times found Democrat Katie Porter, a law school professor, with a lead of 48 percent to 43 percent over Walters among likely voters. Another poll that Siena College did a few days earlier showed attorney Mike Levin leading Harkey, 51 percent to 41 percent, among those most likely to vote. Those are among the races that could well determine which party controls the House for the next two years. Democrats have to flip 23 Republican-held seats nationwide to take control of the House, a position from which they could make all sorts of trouble for President Trump. The polling isnt all bad news for Republicans, though. A recent Monmouth University poll had GOP Rep. Duncan Hunter of Alpine (San Diego County) ahead of Democrat Ammar Campa-Najjar, 51 percent to 40 percent, even though Hunter has been indicted on federal campaign fraud charges. Another survey that Monmouth took last month in the district held by retiring GOP Rep. Ed Royce of Fullerton (Orange County) found Republican businesswoman Young Kim with a 49 percent to 43 percent lead over Democratic philanthropist Gil Cisneros. These numbers mean a lot more than those taken early in the summer, when only the political junkies were paying attention. With election day now closing in, the airwaves and peoples Facebook pages are filling with campaign ads, and mailboxes are groaning under the weight of candidates literature. In California, election day actually starts next Monday, when the vote-by-mail ballots go out. Polls taken closer to the election have other advantages, too. In the month or two before the election, most pollsters switch the focus of their surveys from registered voters to likely voters, said Garry South, a veteran Democratic consultant. Thats a better indication of how a candidate is performing among the people who are actually going to vote. There can be significant differences between registered and likely voters, South said. If a candidate does better with registered voters, then the turnout can be a more significant factor. An example is a mid-September Siena College poll that tested both registered and likely voters in Knights Los Angeles County district. With likely voters counted, the Republican led Democrat Katie Hill, 47 percent to 45 percent. But among the wider universe of registered voters, Hill had the lead, 45 percent to 43 percent. Voter enthusiasm matters, South said. The hotter an election is, the more interest there is among voters, he said. When enthusiasm brings out people who vote only occasionally, it can blow up a poll that relies on likely voters. Enthusiasm is something Democrats are counting on in California, especially in GOP districts like those in Orange County, where Republicans have held control for decades. A Public Policy Institute of California survey released last week found that 66 percent of the states adults disapprove of the job Trump is doing. Even in the GOP bastions of Orange and San Diego counties, his approval rating is underwater, with 34 percent pleased with the presidents efforts and 55 percent unhappy. Democrats across the state will try to make their congressional races a referendum on Trump, telling voters that a vote against fill-in-the-Republican is a chance to vote against the president. An internal poll taken in mid-September for Porter by the Global Strategy Group found her leading Walters, the GOP incumbent, 46 percent to 43 percent. A memo from the pollster said Trump is very unpopular in the Republican-leaning district, with an approval rating of just 39 percent. Perhaps even more important, the memo continued, Democrats are much more excited to vote, as 79 percent of registered Democrats are either very or somewhat excited, compared to just 57 percent of Republicans. Thats why its no surprise to see a Democrat like Cisneros, who is locked in a tight contest for an open Orange County seat, try to tie Kim, a former assemblywoman, as tightly as possible to the unpopular president. Young Kim cant run away from her partisan rhetoric and eagerness to fall in line with the Trump administration, a spokesman for Cisneros said in a statement last week. Only the name of the targeted Republican is likely to change as Democrats in contested districts work to drum up enthusiasm and pump up the poll numbers as they head toward election day. John Wildermuth is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jwildermuth@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jfwildermuth The Board of Supervisors on Tuesday approved a $14.5 million settlement for Emma Zhou, who was paralyzed from the waist down in 2016 when she was struck by a 100-pound tree limb in San Franciscos Washington Square Park. On Aug. 12, 2016, Zhou was with her two children in the parks playground, which was bordered by several Canary Island pine trees, when a limb fell off of a 50-foot tree maintained by the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department. The heavy limb fractured her skull and severed her spinal cord. A list of how to mitigate air-quality concerns at the proposed India Basin development caught the San Francisco Board of Supervisors by surprise during its weekly meeting Tuesday. Board President Malia Cohen said it was unfair that the Bay Area Air Quality Management District hadnt notified the board of new recommendations before its hearing on an appeal of the projects environmental impact statement. This is a really big problem, because were talking about a community that has been raked over the coals for generations, Cohen said of the last-minute recommendations. And to be treated like this again ... its disrespectful. The board delayed its hearings on the India Basin project, which would revamp part of the citys eastern edge south of Islais Creek with 150,000 square feet of commercial space and 1,575 units of housing, after the air quality district said it was concerned about how the project could impact the health of the nearby residents. The agency recommended the plan include extra measures such as using more environmentally friendly construction engines, and that planners look into the availability of hybrid or alternatively fueled delivery trucks. But the recommendations were presented to the board mid-meeting, giving the supervisors no time to review the documents before having to vote on the projects environmental impact report. Alison Kirk, the agencys senior environmental planner, said she only learned of the list Monday night, and attributed the late notice to human error within the agency. The board will resume the hearing during its next meeting on Oct. 16. The environmental concerns for the India Basin project come as the Shipyard, another large development project on the southeast side of the city, has been delayed following revelations that the sites environmental cleanup had apparently been botched and it remained contaminated with radiological waste. The site was home to the Naval Radiological Defense Laboratory from 1946 to 1969. Trisha Thadani is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: tthadani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @TrishaThadan From a perch at a table along the windows at Pearl 6101, the bar and kitchen open like a book. Behind the counter, two pros shake and strain a row of frothy coolers. To their right, the kitchen bustles, one cook pulling crocks of ricotta from a wood-burning hearth, while another sprinkles spaghetti with breadcrumbs. Up and down the line, theyre all women tonight, and Ive gotta say, theyre killing it. Thats one of the reasons Nahiel Nazzal wanted to be bar manager here. The fact that this was really trying to be a women-focused, woman-led project was very enticing for me, Nazzal says. Nazzal, who worked most recently at Anina in Hayes Valley, says it has been challenging to be female in the male-dominated bar industry. Though shes quick to say she is grateful to a few supportive bosses and co-workers shes had over the years, getting looked over, not getting taken seriously enough wore on her. Ive left work crying so many times because Ive seen men get all the opportunities, she says. The chance to be a partner at Pearl 6101 was too good to pass up, she says. Having a piece of this whether its small or big is symbolic. It makes me want to work even harder. Each department head bar manager, the two co-chefs, managers, pastry chef, cafe manager, wine director and beer manager owns a stake in the restaurant alongside founder Jack Murphy, who used a similar model to acquire Pizzetta 211 next door in 2008. There are no outside investors. And while hiring is equal opportunity, both Nazzal and chef-partners Mel Lopez and Joyce Conway see Pearl 6101 as a place where less-experienced women can get mentorship thats not common elsewhere in the bar and restaurant worlds. Its all about encouraging confidence, Conway says. Were teaching technique so they can be strong women in this industry in the future, but also telling them that its OK that youre still learning. Nazzal says that just looking across to the kitchen can be a reminder of the support system theyve built here. I dont feel isolated. I can look at Joyce at the end of the night and not feel like Im the only one going through this moment. Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle Things are busy sometimes overwhelmingly so at Pearl 6101, a former dry cleaner at the quiet intersection of California Street and 23rd Avenue. But from where Im sitting, it just feels fun. Hip 30-somethings and restaurant industry folks sip cocktails at the bar. Across the room, silver-haired couples nestle into the curves of tufted leather booths, soon covering the tables with plates of gnocchi, bottles of wine and generously portioned salads. As my friends begin to order drinks, I realize its happening again: Were going to get one of everything, the entire cocktail menu. And Im going to have to fight for sips. But Im glad to be along for the ride. Nazzal has smartly edited the bar menu down to six cocktails (all $12) that taste at once both fresh and familiar. Theyre mostly named for California native plants, and many feature spirits made at small distilleries. I cant think of a more perfect appetite-whetter than her Farewell to Spring, which, like its namesake ruffled pink flower, is on the delicate end of the spectrum. Made with sparkling wine and lemon plus a Sicilian blood-orange amaro and a Pinot Gris-based aperitif from Oregon, it has a multilayered bright and bitter complexity that your standard Aperol spritz just doesnt offer. Its citrusy sibling, the Coastal Scrub, is another easy favorite, offering even more exuberant citrus flavors. Its spiced with a tincture made with cinnamon, anise, sage and mint thats named for the garbage tea that Nazzals grandmother and aunts would make by steeping the dregs of all the spices in their cabinet. Mixed with gin, grapefruit liqueur and honey, the concoction is subtly tropical and fragrant, like grapefruit perfected. Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. Nazzal is conscious of proof. She tends to start her recipes with a lighter dose of whiskey or gin, then fill out a cocktails flavor with less-potent Sherries, vermouths and liqueurs. Thanks to her time at Anina and some travels through Spain, Nazzal has developed a gift for working with Sherry and creating drinks that illustrate the fortified wines wide spectrum of flavor, leaner than vermouth but offering a similar counterweight to stronger spirits. She likes to play with its acidity and nutty flavors, which vary depending on how and where the wine was made. High-quality cream Sherry adds chocolate and fig notes to a manhattan riff called the Copa de Oro. Meanwhile, Manzanilla Sherry contributes an oyster-shell mineral character to the Pearl Martini. Were a neighborhood bar thats basically two blocks from the bay, Nazzal says. The fog is rolling in right there, so I wanted to have something salty and briny. She uses a subtly aquatic Oakland Spirits gin thats flavored with lemongrass and foraged nori, and adds a few dashes of California-made aquavit to accentuate the savory side of the drink. Back at the table, my friends swap dating stories and devour a plate of mussels escabeche ($12). Spooned onto crunchy levain, the shellfish luxuriates in a sauce laced with saffron and smoked paprika. We instantly wish wed ordered two. I really like this place, my friend pronounces, raising a second Coastal Scrub to her lips. I cant help but agree. Maggie Hoffman is the author of The One-Bottle Cocktail: More than 80 Recipes With Fresh Ingredients and a Single Spirit (Ten Speed Press). Twitter: @maggiejhoffman Email: food@sfchronicle.com A record $2.1 million was raised at the 16th Trails Forever dinner, a beloved blue jeans and boots gala benefiting restoration efforts and education programs of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy that took place Sept. 29. Trails revelers 450 of them gathered atop verdant Crissy Field for a McCalls dinner inside a clear Kathleen Deery-designed tent facing the wind-whipped bay and glowing Golden Gate Bridge. Later, 210 next-gen parks supporters boogied at the late-night Night Howl. The evening was organized by co-chairs Amy Ritter, Charlotte Haas Prime and her cousin-in-law Allison Eisenhardt (with emcee Doug McConnell). And since the evening also honored Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy President and CEO Greg Moore, now in his final year as the nonprofits leader, organizers chose a cherished locale for this particular party. Theres a fundamental concept of joy in these parks, Moore said. But Crissy Field is very treasured by me because the restoration of this former airfield is such an incredible and moving part of our conservancy history. It was a project that really put the conservancy on the map and gave our community access to this beloved place. More for you Ken Fulk: The life of the party has arrived Established in 1981, the groups early efforts centered on a shelf of books devoted to Alcatraz, the sales of which were the conservancys main revenue. Moore, a former park ranger-landscape architect overseeing planning and environmental design in the national parks, joined the conservancy in 1985. Board chairman Colin Lind paid tribute to Moores many accomplishments during his tenure, including developing youth education programs for 750,000 students, engaging 500,000 volunteers who care for the parks and raising a whopping $500 million in support of the Golden Gate National Parks. The funny thing for me is 33 years is exactly half my life, so Ive spent half my life leading the conservancy, Moore noted. Weve grown from an organization with three staff members to 350. Thats in addition to saving and transforming 1,491 acres in the Presidio (a former Army base) into national parkland, rehabilitating more than 100 historic structures, building four park visitor centers, three cafes and five Presidio overlooks along with protecting 33 endangered or threatened species. That last effort was a Trails Forever theme this year that attracted one of the parks newest denizens: a curious coyote observed from a distance as partygoers posed for selfies with a coyote sculpture and similarly costumed character. During a live auction of luxe park packages, auctioneer extraordinaire and conservancy trustee Mark Buell announced the new Greg Moore Parks for All Fund, an initiative to ease barriers of access or economics for families and schoolchildren and connect them with our Golden Gate National Parks. When a new CEO is named, Moore said he will remain close to the organization, serving as a special parks advisor with a focus on completing the Tunnel Tops project. And Moore will also circle back to his past, helping develop the next era of Crissy Field the former concrete wasteland and airfield he transformed in the late 1990s thanks to a $15 million lead gift from the Evelyn and Walter Haas Jr. Fund. Moore chuckled as he recalled his late father, a military man and Harvard Business School grad, who didnt entirely understand his sons passion for running a nonprofit. During a visit, I took my dad to Crissy Field where he once landed planes as a military pilot. But now it was filled with families and kids playing along the bay trails, Moore recalled. My dad said to me, I finally get what you do: Youre in the make-people-happy business. Holy Fulk: From a distance, the scene Friday inside the former St. Josephs Catholic Church on Howard Street seemed rather sacred. However, Pope Francis mightve blushed upon realizing the costumed angels were getting their groove on atop the former altar-turned-dance floor with devilish gents draped in bishop robes. Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. But leave it to Ken Fulk, the inimitable globe-trotting designer, to rescue a 22,000-square-foot Romanesque Revival church (the 1913 structure is also a National Register of Historic Places and San Francisco City Landmark No. 120) badly damaged by the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. Now hes expertly transformed that space into the decidedly secular St. Josephs Arts Society, a subscription-based membership club. His 300 guests were dazzled by the electric evening of performances by burlesque artists and drag queens Juanita Moore and David Glamamore, decked out in paper nun ensembles for a captivating performance of The Flower Duet from the opera Lakme. Whistles were wetted at a Rye-on-the-Road bar, and caterer Paula LeDuc, the societys culinary partner, served delicacies in the former vestry turned medieval-inspired dining hall. The club also features a Carpenters Workshop Gallery upstairs on a newly built open-air mezzanine. Below, along the aisles of the former nave, are six salon spaces hand-crafted with lush fabrics, lounge chairs, Oriental carpets and rotating artworks by emerging and international creators. Fulk describes his effort as an incubator for creative expression among artists. And his vision is a community promoting cultural conversations and supporting innovations in fine art, design, food, fashion, literature and performance art. Catherine Bigelow is The San Francisco Chronicles society correspondent. Email: missbigelow@sfgate.com Instagram: @missbigelow Every Wednesday morning, SFGATE finds the biggest headlines in local (and sometimes national) beer. Check back here weekly for news, events, and information about special releases from your favorite local breweries. SFGATE has a biweekly beer newsletter! Called the Taploid, it contains key stories from this column, as well as other, more nationally-spanning industry news. To sign up, head here, enter your email at the top, and check the box marked "Taploid." Lagunitas, owned by Heineken, announced Tuesday that it would be laying off 12 percent of its workforce amid a "retrenchment of the American craft beer market," according to the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. "The craft beer market is rapidly evolving and, in many ways, more challenging," said company CEO Maria Stipp. "More breweries, more choices ... very much like the late 90's when the craft beer segment had similar pressure." ICYMI, Magnolia Brewing reopened their Dogpatch location. The restaurant has a new look, a new menu, and an expanded beer list, along with a new room for sports-watching. Check out our writeup here. The Rare Barrel will be celebrating five years in business this weekend with a party on Saturday at their Berkeley taproom. The party is $25 to attend (or $10 for designated drivers or those under 21), but the ticket includes a discount on beer, a commemorative glass, a raffle ticket, and a free first beer. In Oakland, Diving Dog Brewhouse, a beer bar and brewpub, celebrates four years with their own Sacramento-themed shindig on Friday, October 5. For the occasion, they'll bring in guest beers from New Glory, Berryessa, Mraz, Device, Track 7 and more. Get more details here. Over in San Leandro, three breweries 21st Amendment, Drake's and Cleophus Quealy will team up to "bring you a day of festivities for a Bavarian-inspired celebration of San Leandro beer" on Saturday, October 6 at noon. The event, called Okdroberfest, has its own website where beer fans can swoop pre-sale tickets for $20 (tix are $25 at the door). That fee includes one free beer at each brewery, a special event Stein glass, and tickets to the "Brew Hop" shuttle, which takes guests between breweries and to the San Leandro BART shuttle. Schroeder's in San Francisco is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a big Oktoberfest celebration. For the occasion, the Front Street German restaurant will host live music every Saturday through October 27. Every weekend will also feature Hofbrau activities, like stein-holding contests, and sausage-eating and beer-drinking contests. Get more details at the official website. Anheuser-Busch is also throwing "an authentic Oktoberfest celebration" at their Fairfield brewery location this Saturday, October 6 from noon to 5 p.m. The event sees the company throwing their traditional German-style offerings Spaten Lager, Spaten Optimator, Spaten Oktoberfest and Franziskaner on tap alongside traditional German fare and a Bavarian folk band. Alyssa Pereira is an SFGATE staff writer. Email her at apereira@sfchronicle.com or find her on Twitter at @alyspereira. Lagunitas Brewing Co., a Heineken-owned brewing company with headquarters in Petaluma, announced Tuesday that it would be laying off 12 percent of its workforce. The brewery cited a "retrenchment of the American craft beer market" as the reason for the layoffs, the Santa Rosa Press Democrat reported. In addition to the main brewing operation in the North Bay, Lagunitas also has two taprooms in Seattle and Azusa, California, and a second brewing facility in Chicago. More than 100 people in every department of the roughly 900-person company will be affected, although the Petaluma location will experience most of the cuts. "The craft beer market is rapidly evolving and, in many ways, more challenging," said Lagunitas CEO Maria Stipp in a statement. "More breweries, more choices ... very much like the late '90s when the craft beer segment had similar pressure." Stipp said to combat the slowing of the market, the company would be refocusing on taking "steps to drive our flagship IPA." That beer, the Lagunitas IPA, is considered one of the paradigmatic examples of the West Coast IPA style. "We do not take this lightly and are making every effort to do it in the right way, as these actions impact our valued co-workers, friends and community who have contributed to our tribe story," the statement continues. Lagunitas Brewing was founded by Tony Magee in 1993 with a 420-friendly aesthetic and a penchant for resinous, "dank" IPAs and hoppy style-beers. The company grew exponentially over the next 20 years, but in 2015, Magee sold a 50 percent stake to Heineken. In 2017, Heineken purchased the other half. The company was valued at around $1 billion at the time, although the price of the sale was never disclosed publicly. Lagunitas has recently been exploring non-beer business possibilities, starting with launching the production of Hi Fi Hops, a non-alcoholic sparkling water infused with THC in June. Shortly thereafter, the company released another non-alcoholic hop-flavored sparkling water. Such struggles are not unique to Lagunitas. A year ago, Anheuser-Busch InBev's High End division, which manages Golden Road, 10 Barrel and others laid off 90 percent of its sales division. In June, San Diego's Green Flash Brewing scaled back plans to expand distribution to 32 states and laid off 15 percent of its workforce amid slowing sales. Then in August, Constellation Brands, which owns Ballast Point and Funky Buddha among other breweries, laid off around 60 employees while restructuring the company. Alyssa Pereira is an SFGATE staff writer. Email her at apereira@sfchronicle.com or find her on Twitter at @alyspereira. SFGATE has a biweekly beer newsletter! Called the Taploid, it contains key stories from this column, as well as other, more nationally-spanning industry news. To sign up, head here, enter your email at the top, and check the box marked "Taploid." | BY Ricki Green | Leading figures from the worlds of business, advertising, design and philanthropy have tonight gathered at AMC Loews Lincoln Square 13 in New York City to view the winners of the third annual D&AD Impact Awards. Host/Havas,Sydney has claimed one of only two Black Pencils, reserved for truly groundbreaking work, for Palau Legacy Project Palau Pledge . The other Black Pencil went to Marcel Paris for Carrefour Black Supermarket. BWM Dentsu, Sydney scored two Graphite Pencils for Queensland Police Service Disappearing Persons Alerts (with Cox Inall Change) and for The ALS Association for Project Revoice / with Haystac, Lyrebird, FINCH, Nakatomi, Rumble Studios and Space 66. Australia scored five Wood Pencils. Tricky Jigsaw/M&C Saatchi picked up two for NRMA Fireblanket. The other Wood Pencils went to Revolver/Will ORourke/Cummins&Partners Sydney for Be Gentle Australia Stop The Horror; Host/Havas for Palau Legacy Project Palau Pledge and Clemenger BBDO Melbourne for Mattel Never Before Barbie. D&AD Impact recognizes the best in creative work that has a real social impact, celebrating ideas that contribute towards a better and more sustainable future. During the New York Ceremony, shortlisted entrants found out if they won a coveted D&AD Impact Pencil, as well as which entrant was awarded the inaugural $20,000 prize fund. In total, 76 D&AD Impact Pencils were awarded to campaigns, projects and products addressing some of the most pressing issues in the world today. This year, entries demonstrated a focus on issues of environmental sustainability and inclusion reflected in the line-up of projects that took home the top awards. Eight White Pencils, one of the highest accolades for world-changing creativity, were handed out. The full list of White and Black Pencil winners can be viewed at the end of this press release. The number of Pencils awarded at each level were: 2 Black Pencils 8 White Pencils 17 Graphite Pencils 49 Wood Pencils (12 of which were for beta products and programmes by businesses looking to scale their initiatives, like Dot Mini, the first smart device for the visually impaired created by Serviceplan and the Dot corporation, and ProxyAddress by Hildrey Studio, which helps those facing homelessness maintain access to support even after they have lost an address.) New to D&AD Impact in 2018 is the introduction of a $20,000 prize fund open for prototypes, products and projects from a range of categories. The cash prize was awarded to DDB Mudra Group and the organization Prerana Anti-Trafficking for their Project Free Period initiative. The project, developed with feminine hygiene brand Stayfree India / Johnson & Johnson, supports women in the sex trade to build vocational skills to allow them to sustain themselves in new lines of work. The 2018 D&AD Impact Council who judged the work included William Seabrook (Global Chief Creative Officer, IBM), Neil Blumenthal (CEO, Warby Parker), Marcus East (CTO, National Geographic), Kwame Taylor-Hayford (MD, Chobani), Aaron Gershenberg (Founder of Silicon Valley Bank Fund of Funds), KoAnn Vikoren Skrzyniarz (CEO and Founder, Sustainable Brands), Gal Barradas (Former CEO, BETC Brasil), Deborah Alden (MD, WeWork) and Claudia Romo Edelman (Special Adviser to Global Chief of Public Advocacy, UNICEF). Speaking at D&AD Impact Judging, Claudia Romo Edelman said: I am delighted to be back at the D&AD Impact Awards, particularly at a time when theres a growing market for consumers and voters and people that are engaging in purpose. Its important to have such a relevant category of awards to incentivise a creative industry from all sectors, not just creatives and agencies, but also technology startups and all the different sectors that can be part of this. The work that I have been seeing is amazing. Ive seen a huge number of creatives that are scalable and have the power to change legislation that can really bring a sense of change in society. This year, 40 shortlisted companies were also offered places on the D&AD Impact Academy a masterclass program held on September 27 that aims to inspire talent and provide tangible tools based on the experience and knowledge of the D&AD Impact Council. Companies that earned a place at the Academy included Selman Design, Hildrey Studio and Aether-Tech. Sessions at the Academy were delivered by speakers including iProspects Joanna Catalano, Ideos Roshi Givechi and BitFurys Bill Tai. The awards were hosted by Franchesca Ramsey, an American actor, activist, comedian and video blogger with over 29 million views on YouTube and over half a million followers across Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Says Tim Lindsay, CEO, D&AD: In todays social climate, consumers are more conscious of the brands and companies they support; expecting them to contribute to wider societal issues. D&AD Impact celebrates the creativity and campaigns from businesses that are trying to create a better future for us all. This year, were going the extra mile to make sure these businesses are supported in their ideas by introducing our 20,000 prize fund. I am eager to see what the future holds for our winners. Says Matt Scheckner, global CEO, Advertising Week Stillwell Partners: Brands that embrace real world issues that transcend our industry and actually improve peoples lives represent the very best of what advertising does. Moreover, connecting the head to the heart is good for business. Advertising Week is proud to honor those who embrace issues like environmental sustainability, humanitarian aid, diversity, and education and to shine a light on great campaigns and stories which truly deserve broader recognition. Travel insurance is a tough subject to write about. That's because no one really wants to read about it until they really need it. So as record numbers Americans hit the road and skies this year and wonder whether or not they really need travel insurance, here's some help. Along with Allianz, I've put together a list of six important travel insurance terms that you should be familiar with before shopping around for the right policy: "Named storm" or "foreseeable event." At this time of year, the beginning of hurricane season, it's especially important to know what these phrases mean. Travel insurance is designed to offer protection against sudden and unforeseen situations and events. When a hurricane (or any storm) becomes a named storm, it also becomes a "foreseeable event" with known potential to affect travel plans. If you buy travel insurance after a storm is named, your plan won't provide coverage for storm-related claims. This means that it's always smart to purchase travel insurance right after you book your trip (especially to the Caribbean, Mexico or Florida), so you know you're covered. The same scenario applies to other natural disasters, too. For example, the volcanic activity at Kilauea on Hawaii's Big Island became a "known event" on May 3. While you can still buy insurance for a vacation to Kona, the plans will not provide any coverage for volcano-related claims. "Cancel for any reason" policies. At Allianz, there are 26 covered reasons for having to cancel or interrupt a tripsuch as terrorist events, job loss, illness or provider bankruptcy, etc. The reasons vary based on the type of policy you buy. But there's one type of policy that will reimburse you for most or all of your prepaid trip expenses if you cancel for ANY reason, and that's a "cancel for any reason" policy. These policies are more expensive than regular ones and you may have to call to purchase one. Keep in mind, most policies require you to insure 100% of your pre-paid expenses and may only reimburse you up to 80% of the trip cost. "Repatriation" vs. "evacuation" coverage. These terms refer to emergency medical coverage that travelers buy before big overseas or adventure trips like African safaris or round-the-world cruises. An evacuation plan will generally cover the cost of extracting you from a remote location and getting to the nearest suitable hospital for care. A more expensive repatriation plan goes further by getting you out of harm's way and then transporting you back to your home country for medical care. "Assistance" vs. "coverage." Travel insurance comes in three primary flavors. One, it can help you deal with travel inconveniences, like lost bags and delayed flights (that's travel assistance). Two, it can protect your travel investment, so you don't lose all your money if you have to cancel a trip for a covered reason (that's coverage). And three, it can help you get care in the event of a covered medical emergency (that's medical coverage). Pixabay Emergency Medical "coverage" vs. "transportation." If you become sick or injured on a trip, you'll be faced with two significant costs: 1) emergency transportation to a hospital (that's emergency medical transportation) and 2) medical care or treatment at the hospital (that's emergency medical coverage). Most travelers need to be sure that they have both. For example, travelers who are covered by Medicare in the U.S. are not covered for treatment in other countries, so will need both healthcare coverage and emergency medical assistance. "Primary" vs. "secondary" car rental coverage. When renting a car and paying for it with a credit card, it's important to know if the card provides primary or secondary coverageand what the limits of that coverage are. Primary coverage means that the policy will cover you whether or not you are covered by a personal or company auto policy. Secondary coverage kicks in only if you are not covered elsewhere. If you do not own a car, it's a good idea to use a card with primary coverage, or to purchase a policy like Allianz Rental Car Damage Protector for just $9 per day. Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Allianz Global Assistance. We will periodically publish posts like this one from commercial partners about topics relevant to frequent travel. Read all recent TravelSkills posts here Get twice-per-week updates from TravelSkills via email! Sign up here Chris McGinnis is the founder of TravelSkills.com. The author is solely responsible for the content above, and it is used here by permission. You can reach Chris at chris@travelskills.com or on Twitter @cjmcginnis. Google the words "selfie" and "death." You'll be shocked at what you see. And now a clinical study has determined that hundreds of people worldwide have given their lives in pursuit of that perfect self-portrait in pixels. TravelSkills on SFGate is brought to you by Visa Titled "Selfies: A boon or bane," the report published in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care used similar Google news searches and found that from October 2011 to November 2017, at least 259 people have died in 137 selfie sessions, with an average age of about 23. Three-fourths of the victims were male. Last month, a teenage visitor from Israel fell hundreds of feet to his death from the top of a waterfall in Yosemite National Park. He reportedly lost his footing when he was taking a selfie. These deaths happen all over the place, the study found, with the highest number in India, followed by Russia, the U.S. and Pakistan. The primary causes of death were drowning, transport and falls. There's even a Wikipedia page devoted to "selfie-related injuries and deaths." The report noted that compiling accurate statistics can be problematic because "selfie" is never listed as the actual cause of death in coroners' reports. "For example, certain road accidents while posing for selfies are reported as death due to Road Traffic Accident. Thus, the true magnitude of problem is underestimated. It is therefore important to assess the true burden, causes, and reasons for selfie deaths so that appropriate interventions can be made," the report said, suggesting that its own selfie death numbers are just "the tip of the iceberg." A major cause of transport-related selfie deaths was "clicking in front of a running train," the report said. "Also, most of the selfie-related deaths because of firearms occurred in the United States." The authors suggest that one way to reduce the number of deaths would be the creation of "no-selfie zones" in tourist areas, "especially places such as water bodies, mountain peaks, and over tall buildings." Have you ever witnessed or been part of a precarious selfie? Do we need selfie-free zones? Please leave your thoughts in the comments! Read all recent TravelSkills posts here Get twice-per-week updates from TravelSkills via email! Sign up here Chris McGinnis is the founder of TravelSkills.com. The author is solely responsible for the content above, and it is used here by permission. You can reach Chris at chris@travelskills.com or on Twitter @cjmcginnis. There are many reasons that the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival is one of San Francisco's most sacred events. It's free to attend, for one a rarity in an expensive city and it's also dependably family-friendly and laid-back. Since 2001, the festival has been an annual gift given to the people of San Francisco by a trust set up by wealthy philanthropist F. Warren Hellman and his wife, artist and ballerina Chris Hellman (who passed in 2011 and 2017, respectively). Having the foresight to ensure the event's longevity, the couple set up an endowment to ensure the festival could continue for as long as possible in Golden Gate Park. In 2018, as intended, the show goes on. RELATED: Hippies, hipsters and everything in between: Quirky fashion at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass This year's lineup is headlined by Alison Krauss, Ani DiFranco, Jeff Tweedy, Emmylou Harris & the Red Dirt Boys and Ween, and, keeping with tradition, is free again. There are, predictably, downsides to beloved free festivals like this one: crowds, lines, and hard-to-navigate transportation options. Lateness is often an offense punishable by being forced into standing room only, and getting across festival grounds is a huge time expense. RELATED: Hardly Strictly Bluegrass drops first few clues to 2018 lineup To get the most out of HSB, the fest advises guests to observe a code of etiquette. More can also be gleaned from longtime locals. View the above gallery for tips on the best ways to enjoy Hardly Strictly. Hardly Strictly Bluegrass takes place at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco October 5-7, 2018. It is all-ages and free to attend. Alyssa Pereira is an SFGATE staff writer. Email her at apereira@sfchronicle.com or find her on Twitter at @alyspereira. Love concerts, movies and the Bay's nightlife scene? Stay up to date with Datebook's newsletter covering entertainment news and events in the Bay Area, coming soon. To sign up, head here, enter your email at the top, and check the box marked "Datebook." President Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi on Tuesday by mocking a woman who has claimed she was sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago. The audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Christine Blasey Fords testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She testified that Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s, when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Fords allegations. How did you get home? I dont remember, Trump said at the rally in Southaven. How did you get there? I dont remember. Where is the place? I dont remember. How many years ago was it? I dont know. I dont know. I dont know. Imitating Ford, he added, But I had one beer thats the only thing I remember. It marked the sharpest criticism by Trump of Ford since she came forward publicly with the allegation last month. He had previously called Ford a very credible witness. Fords lawyer Michael Bromwich called Trumps attack vicious, vile and soulless. Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? Bromwich tweeted. She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice. The president was in Mississippi on Tuesday looking to use his influence to sway the outcome of a low-profile election that could tip the balance of the Senate. As Republicans fight headwinds ahead of the Nov. 6 midterm election, Trump sought to rally his supporters behind GOP Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, who was appointed to fill the seat of Republican Thad Cochran, who retired in April. She faces three candidates Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bernard Bartee in next months special election for the remainder of the two-year term. Shes always had my back, Trump said. Shes always had your back. And a vote for Cindy is a vote for me. The FBI is expected to complete its investigation into allegations of sexual assault against Kavanaugh, who has denied the allegations, and deliver the results to the Senate as early as Wednesday, and Republican leaders said Tuesday that they expect to vote on the nomination this week. Well have an FBI report this week, and well have a vote this week, Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, told reporters after the Republicans weekly policy luncheon Tuesday. But McConnell would not say whether that would be a final vote, or a procedural vote allowing the Senate to begin debate. Once the investigation is completed, the FBI will send reports about its interviews to the Senate, where members will have a chance to review them. Several Republicans including Sen. John Cornyn of Texas, the No. 2 Republican said Tuesday that they would like to see the findings made public in some form. NEW YORK President Trump personally guided efforts in February to keep Stormy Daniels from talking about their alleged 2006 tryst and his son Eric was enlisted to help in the matter, the Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday. Trump allegedly instructed his then-lawyer Michael Cohen in a phone call to seek a restraining order against the adult film star. Cohen coordinated with Trumps son Eric whos been running Trump Organization with his brother Donald Trump Jr. who then assigned a staff attorney to help with arbitration paperwork, sources told the Journal. Trump has previously denied sleeping with Daniels and has tried to distance himself from Cohens efforts to keep her quiet. Cohen pleaded guilty in August to eight criminal charges, including two campaign finance violations related to a pre-election $130,000 payment he made to Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford. Daniels signed a nondisclosure agreement drafted by Cohen in October 2016. Cohen said in court that he made the payments at Trumps direction. But as Daniels considered taking her story public early this year, Cohen on Feb. 27 obtained a temporary restraining order. The president was heavily involved in the February push to keep Daniels from going public as Cohen, Eric Trump and other Trump Organization attorneys worked together, which counters official statements from the company, the White House, the president and Cohen, according to the Journal. Trump reportedly directed Cohen and his son, along with outside lawyer, Lawrence Rosen, who had represented both Trump and his company in the past, sources familiar with the events told the newspaper. According to The Wall Street Journal, Rosen asked Trump Organization attorney Jill Martin in California to sign off on the arbitration paperwork, saying it was at the request of Eric Trump. Daniels and her attorney, Michael Avenatti, sued Trump and Cohens company, Essential Consultants, in March seeking the NDA she signed ahead of the 2016 election be voided. Also Tuesday, two women who were arrested at an Ohio strip club along with Daniels sued four Columbus police vice detectives, accusing them of retaliating against Daniels for her sex allegations concerning Trump before he became president. Daniels was arrested in July for inappropriately touching a female undercover officer. Denis Slattery is a New York Daily News writer. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 3) Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano slammed the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) for their documentary on the state of democracy in the Philippines under President Rodrigo Duterte's term. Titled "Philippines: Democracy in Danger?", the documentary "amounts to nothing more than anti-Duterte propaganda, more worthy of tabloid journalism and gossip than the venerable institution that we thought BBC was," Cayetano said in an open letter to the network Tuesday. The special documentary by BBC News Philippines correspondent Howard Johnson aired on September 29, 2018. It painted how the President supposedly "attacked the institutions designed to keep his power in check," including the media, the legislative and judiciary branches of government. Johnson also likened Duterte's leadership to that of former strongman President Ferdinand Marcos, whose term was marred with human rights abuses. "With four more years in power, the future of democracy here (in the Philippines) is looking bleak," Johnson said. The drug war Johnson's report tackled the apprehension of tambays (loiterers), the drug-related allegations surrounding presidential son Paolo Duterte, and the Davao Death Squad which was also linked to the President during his time as mayor. It also cited the more than 4,000 killed in anti-illegal drug operations. But the Foreign Affairs Chief defended the administration's campaign against illegal drugs in the country. "The episode misleads viewers about President Rodrigo Roa Duterte's anti-illegal drug strategy, which is actually making Philippine society safer, healthier, and more prosperous for the Filipino people. It fails to mention that the strategy is a diversified and community-based approach that includes enforcement, rehabilitation, and reintegration," he explained. Cayetano accused the network of making little mention of the effects of drug addiction on Filipino families, as well as efforts to rid the state of public officials who are involved in drugs. "If BBC did its homework, it would have known that as of 31 August 2018, we have arrested 576 government workers, including elected officials and uniformed personnel while another 498 are being investigated for drug-related cases. We have also dismissed 105 uniformed personnel for drug-related offenses," the DFA chief explained. The critics The documentary also talked to staunch critics of the Duterte administration, such as ousted Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, detained Senator Leila de Lima, and Senator Antonio Trillanes. The DFA chief said the report is "one-sided" on the issues surrounding de Lima, Trillanes, and Sereno. "It overlooks the fact that all three have been given and continue to be given their day in court. The rule of law has been upheld in all three cases. They are not, as the report unfairly alleges, victims of any crackdown on the political opposition. The report also failed to mention the obvious: all three remain free to criticize the Duterte Administration," he said. The media Johnson's report also shed light on Rappler, whose license to do business has been revoked under Duterte's term. The Securities and Exchange Commission earlier ruled that Rappler and Rappler Holdings Corporation violated the foreign equity restrictions in mass media under the Constitution. Cayetano slammed the documentary's portrayal of press freedom in the country, denying that media persecution is rampant. "Those who read our newspapers, watch our television programs, listen to our radio broadcasts, take part in dialogue through social media, and read online publications (including Rappler, which like other media outlets, can freely publish and criticize the policies of the Duterte Administration) can observe that the press is anything but inhibited in the Philippines," he said. He then urged the television network to present an "accurate and balanced view of issues" in the Philippines. "We believe that by doing so BBC will be able to regain the trust of its audience in its journalistic professionalism and repair the damage it has inflicted on the Philippines and the Filipino people as a result of this one-sided documentary," he explained. | BY Ricki Green | Clemenger BBDO Sydney has announced that Sacha Zivanovic has joined the agency as group account director. Zivanovic joins from Anomaly NYC where she spent five years working on accounts including Google, P&G, Hershey, PepsiCo and Panera, whilst receiving numerous accolades from a range of global award shows. Says Nick Garrett, CEO, Clemenger BBDO: We are thrilled to have Sacha join the team in Sydney. Sacha is a fantastic talent thats as creatively minded as she is business oriented. Its great to bring the best Aussie talent back home to add to our business and the Australian industry at large. Says Zivanovic: What Im most excited about my move to Clemenger is the clear vision Nick and Emily have for the agency an evolving model that puts clients and creativity at the heart of the solution to make the best possible work something Im very passionate about. This role for me represents a chance to be part of an iconic Australian agency and global creative force, and to help the Sydney office deliver the best communications strategies and wildly effective ideas for our clients. Violinist Rene Mandel was subbing with the San Francisco Symphony a few summers ago when the orchestra was joined in Civic Center Plaza by the fiery young fiddler Benjamin Beilman, playing the Mendelssohn Concerto. I was floored, recalls Mandel, a veteran freelance musician whose main gig is serving as the Berkeley Symphonys executive and artistic director. He introduced himself to Beilman that day and said hed love to bring him to Berkeley sometime. That moment arrives Thursday, Oct. 4, when Beilman joins the orchestra under Ming Lukes baton to open the symphonys 2018-19 season. Hes booked to perform Jennifer Higdons 2008 Pulitzer Prize-winning Violin Concerto. Beilman plays the Engleman Stradivarius violin, circa 1709, a loaner from the Nippon Music Foundation. He plays with soul. You might think they all do, but they dont, Mandel says. Hes an extremely soulful, serious player on the highest level. He has a vulnerability that connects with the audience. In addition to prepping for the opener, hes getting ready for a daylong off-site meeting with Berkeley Symphony board members and musicians. Among other things, they planned to discuss ideas about our artistic future and what direction wed like to pursue. Founded in 1971 by conductor Thomas Rarick, the orchestra rose to prominence under the musical direction of Kent Nagano, who programmed neglected 20th century works and premiered and commissioned new music from 1978 to 2008. Female composers and conductors were championed. Starting in 2009, Portuguese conductor Joana Carneiro maintained that spirit for nine seasons as music director. She announced her departure in May, after having to bow out of two scheduled performances last season. Each of this seasons four concerts will be led by a guest conductor. Luke has been so busy with assignments around the country and at San Francisco Opera, where hes principal guest conductor, he wasnt available in the past to step in to conduct the Berkeley Symphony on the big stage at Zellerbach Hall. This will be his debut in that setting, popping the cork with Shostakovichs Festive Overture, followed by the Higdon, Berkeley composer-in-residence Anna Clynes Night Ferry and Ravels irresistible La Valse. Mandel, who has played under Lukes baton at the Opera and attests to his musicality and clear beat, heard a felicitous connection between the harmony, dynamics and mood at the end of Night Ferry and the opening of La Valse. He suggested the first segue right into the other, the audience apprised in advance by Luke or Clyne. Night Ferry is literally a voyage. Its a robust piece that ends very quietly the storm is over and fading away, Mandel says. When La Valse starts, the voyager has reached his destination, and little does he know what awaits him is this mad waltz. For more information, go to www.berkeleysymphony.org. Raised voices Some of the young people who contributed to Raise Your Voice! The Sound of Student Protest, an album of songs and spoken word about gun violence written by students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High in Parkland, Fla. and elsewhere, are set to perform at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass at 3:10 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, on the Bandwagon Stage. The record, set for release this week by Little City Foundation, a nonprofit run by ace R&B pianist Jim Pugh, benefits the nonprofit Everytown, which is focused on ending gun violence and keeping people safe. For more information, go to www.littlevillagefoundation.com. Auxiliary winds The ever-expanding San Francisco Conservatory of Music is adding another program: a post-grad professional studies diploma for wind players who want to go beyond their primary instrument to master an auxiliary one. The faculty features the San Francisco Symphonys auxiliary wind experts: piccolo specialist Catherine Payne, contrabassoonist Steven Braunstein, English horn player Russ deLuna and bass clarinetist Jerome Simas. For more information, go to https://sfcm.edu. Girls Chorus at 40 The esteemed San Francisco Girls Chorus opens its 40th season by celebrating the music and influence of the late French composer and pedagogue Nadia Boulanger at Herbst Theatre on Oct. 18. Tenor Nicholas Phan is set to join the chorus for Mademoiselle: An American Inspiration, a program of songs by Boulanger and her sister Lili Boulanger, Aaron Copland, Samuel Barber, Leonard Bernstein, Louise Talma and others. For more information, go to www.sfgirlschorus.org. Jesse Hamlin is a Bay Area journalist and former San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. WASHINGTON Senate Republicans are stepping up efforts to challenge Christine Blasey Fords credibility by confronting her with a sworn statement from a former boyfriend who took issue with a number of assertions she made during testimony before the Judiciary Committee last week. Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, the committee chairman, cited the former boyfriends statement in a letter sent Tuesday night to Blaseys lawyers demanding that they turn over material that could be used to assess her veracity. President Donald Trump mocked Blasey during a campaign rally Tuesday night, mimicking her inability to remember some details from her account of being sexually assaulted by Judge Brett Kavanaugh when they were teenagers. The former boyfriend told the Judiciary Committee that he witnessed Blasey helping a friend prepare for a possible polygraph examination, contradicting her testimony under oath. Blasey, a psychology professor from California who also goes by her married name Ford, was asked during the hearing whether she had ever given tips or advice to somebody who was looking to take a polygraph test. She answered, Never. More for you In Albany, FEMA tests emergency mobile alert to mixed reactions But the former boyfriend, whose name was redacted from a copy of the sworn statement provided by a person supporting Kavanaughs confirmation to the Supreme Court, said that when they were together in the 1990s he saw Blasey use her understanding of psychology to assist her roommate of the time, Monica L. McLean, before interviews for possible positions with the FBI or the U.S. attorneys office that might require her to take a lie-detector test. I witnessed Dr. Ford help McLean prepare for a potential polygraph exam, the man said in the statement. Dr. Ford explained in detail what to expect, how polygraphs worked and helped McLean become familiar and less nervous about the exam. McLean, a former FBI agent, denied the assertion Wednesday. I have never had Christine Blasey Ford, or anybody else, prepare me, or provide any other type of assistance whatsoever in connection with any polygraph exam I have taken at any time, she said in a statement. Blaseys camp also rejected the account. She stands by her testimony, a member of her legal team said in a statement. Although the mans name and hometown were redacted from the copy of the statement, which was dated Tuesday, a person informed about the matter identified him as Brian Merrick. A profile of Blasey in The Wall Street Journal last month said she met Merrick while pursuing a masters degree at Pepperdine University. She was sweet, cute and with a good attitude, he told the newspaper. He added that she never told him about a violent encounter with Kavanaugh. It strikes me as odd it never came up in our relationship, Merrick told the newspaper. But I would never try to discredit what she says or what she believes. Still, Rachel Mitchell, the Arizona sex crimes prosecutor who questioned Blasey at last weeks hearing, seemed to know to ask her about whether she had ever advised anyone about taking a polygraph test. In his letter Tuesday night, Grassley confronted Blaseys lawyers about the contradiction between Merricks statement and her testimony. This statement raises specific concerns about the reliability of her polygraph examination results, he wrote, requesting her lawyers turn over any audio or video recordings of the polygraph that Blasey took about her allegation against Kavanaugh in August. The Senate therefore needs this information. Blasey, 51, who has positions at Stanford University and Palo Alto University, told the committee last week that during a small house party probably in the summer of 1982, a drunken Kavanaugh pinned her to a bed, groped her, tried to remove her clothing and covered her mouth when she tried to scream. He would have been 17 at the time and she would have been 15. He has adamantly denied her account. McLean joined a group of classmates from Holton-Arms School, the all-girls academy in suburban Maryland that Blasey attended at the time of the alleged incident, in coming out in support of her in a letter to the committee last month. The letter said that the classmates wanted to attest to her honesty, integrity, and intelligence; and to contend that her decision to provide information pertaining to a sexual assault is not a partisan act. It is an act of civic duty and the experience she described in her letter needs to be seriously considered. In his statement, Merrick said that he first met Blasey in 1989 or 1990 in California and after a period of friendship they dated from 1992 to 1998. I found her truthful and maintain no animus toward her, he wrote. But he did not corroborate her account of an assault by Kavanaugh and challenged other elements of her testimony. During our time dating, Dr. Ford never brought up anything regarding her experience as a victim of sexual assault, harassment, or misconduct, he wrote. Dr. Ford never mentioned Brett Kavanaugh. Blasey has already said that she did not tell anyone about the experience until discussing it with the man who is now her husband in 2002 and later talking about it in more detail with a therapist in 2012. Many victims of sexual assault do not bring up their experiences for years after the events. Merrick took issue with Blaseys professed fear of flying and of confined spaces, noting that they once traveled around the Hawaiian islands in a propeller plane. Dr. Ford never indicated a fear of flying, he wrote. To the best of my recollection Dr. Ford never expressed a fear of closed quarters, tight spaces, or places with only one exit. While she testified that she once insisted on building a second front door in her house because of the trauma of her encounter with Kavanaugh, Merrick said he helped her find a place to live in California in a very small, 500 sq. ft. house with one door. He also wrote that they broke up once I discovered that Dr. Ford was unfaithful and that she continued to use a credit card they shared nearly a year before he took her off the account. When confronted, Dr. Ford said she did not use the card, but later admitted to the use after I threatened to involve fraud protection, he said. In his letter to Blaseys lawyers, Grassley also demanded copies of notes taken by her therapist, portions of which The Washington Post reported that she had provided one of its reporters. And he asked for any other records of her communications with the Post reporter who first interviewed her. Your failure to provide the entirety of Dr. Fords correspondence with The Post again suggests a lack of candor, he wrote. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. | BY Ricki Green | Victorian wine label, St Huberts The Stag has unveiled a new campaign via J. Walter Thompson Melbourne, to host The Worlds Most Elusive Wine Bar an exclusive food and wine experience. Following the philosophy of the brands tagline, Instinct Led You Here the campaign is introduced with a trailer video encouraging consumers to escape the city and explore what awaits. A competition will run online until the 21st October for the opportunity to win an invitation to the exclusive experience, which will take place at a secret location at the end of the month. Set high in the Victorian alpine wilderness, a wine bar awaits, where for one night only, St Huberts The Stags collection of wines will be served alongside a locally sourced menu, prepared by professional chef Matt Wilkinson of The Pie Shop and late Melbourne institution Pope Joan. With a strictly limited number of guests, highlights from the night will include a preview of the winerys 2018 Yarra Valley Pinot Noir from winemaker Greg Jarratt, to celebrate its 10th anniversary release. Says Clive Coleman, regional brand director, St Huberts The Stag: This elusive experience is all about bringing people together for a food and wine adventure. An opportunity to escape the norm and showcase our range of cool climate St Huberts The Stag wines. St Huberts The Stag is a brand that encompasses escapism and reconnection. Were thrilled to debut and host an experience such as The Worlds Most Elusive Wine Bar which will provide guests with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, that we simply cant wait to share. Hosted in partnership with leading lifestyle publication Broadsheet, further information about The Worlds Most Elusive Wine Bar and the trailer can be viewed at www.instinctledyouhere.com. St Huberts The Stag wines are available from leading retailers nationwide. To discover more about the wines visit: www.sthuberts.com.au. Creative : J. Walter Thompson, Melbourne Production Company: //Thirteen & Co Director: Lester Jones Producer: Warren Keuning | BY Ricki Green | GPJ Australia has today announced its appointment as the experiential agency of record for Synergy following a competitive pitch. Synergy is Western Australias leading provider of electricity and gas, supplying millions of residential, business and industrial customers across Perth and WA. The partnership involves GPJ delivering experiential, creative, strategy, activation and production services to Synergy. Says Natalie Pronin, regional manager Western Australia, GPJ Australia: We are really excited about working with Synergy to support their customers and the WA community. Says Caleb Bush, MD, GPJ Australia: Our WA office is in a period of significant growth and this new business win continues the strong momentum we are enjoying. We are looking forward to working with the Synergy team and helping them in their commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for their expanding customer base. | BY Ricki Green | New Zealands love affair with the Toyota Corolla has been reignited in a new campaign from Saatchi & Saatchi, Nothings changed, except everything, created to truly recognise and celebrate its iconic status, and impressive new design. The launch of the latest generation Toyota Corolla earlier this month represented a turning point for the best-selling passenger car in the country, as Toyota revealed a bolder, dynamic exterior design and more rewarding driving experience. Being an enduring classic doesnt mean standing still, as evident in the simple genius, timeless appeal, and continual reinterpretation of pasta or jeans. When it comes to the Toyota Corolla, it has been part of the fabric of Kiwi culture since 1969 but innovations in safety, emissions, and design plant it firmly in the year 2018. Toby Talbot, chief creative Officer at Saatchi & Saatchi New Zealand said the heritage and confidence of the brand allowed the creative to stand above mere comparisons, and claim its rightful place as a legendary part of everyday life for Kiwis. Says Talbot: In this campaign were not comparing the new Corolla to other cars. It plays way too big a role in our lives to be considered just as a car. So we compare it to other staples in our life that we cant imagine life without, like pasta and jeans. Tastes may have changed over the years, but the love we share for Corolla remains undimmed. Says Andrew Davis, general manager marketing and information services: The Corolla has been a part of New Zealand culture for 50 years and kiwis share great memories of times spent in a Corolla with family or friends. The new 12th generation Corolla is hugely exciting for us, more power, more self-charging Hybrids and a fantastic new design so it will appeal to whole new generation of New Zealanders. This was the challenge for the Saatchis team who have done a fantastic job in delivering a creative that can talk to new and existing Corolla drivers across multiple platforms. The campaign is set to be the biggest launch campaign for a Toyota model in 2018 and will span TV, online video, social media, digital display, OOH, print and point of sale. Client: Toyota New Zealand Creative Agency: Saatchi & Saatchi Production Company: Goodoil Director: Joel Kefali Sound Design: Clive Broughton Music composition: Cam Ballantyne ADELANTO, Calif. (AP) Federal inspectors found nooses made from bedsheets hanging in more than a dozen cells at an immigration detention facility in Southern California, according to a government report. The Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General issued a scathing report after visiting the privately-run detention facility in the remote, desert city of Adelanto in May, the Los Angeles Times reported Tuesday. Inspectors found nooses in 15 of 20 cells they visited at the center operated by the GEO Group for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and said guards told them that removing the sheets was not a high priority. Some detainees said they used the braided sheets as clotheslines or unfurled them for privacy. One detainee told inspectors he had seen them used for attempted suicides and that "the guards laugh at them and call them 'suicide failures' once they are back from medical,'" the report said. More for you Hilarious reactions after millions receive 'presidential alert' Pablo Paez, a spokesman for GEO, referred questions about the report to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Lori Haley, an ICE spokeswoman, said the agency takes the findings seriously and will conduct an immediate review of the facility. "ICE recognizes that this can present a dangerous safety vulnerability and will intensify efforts to address this issue," she said. Immigrants have long complained about conditions at the detention center in Adelanto, 70 miles (113 kilometers) northeast of Los Angeles. There were at least seven suicide attempts at the facility between December 2016 and October 2017, and a 32-year-old man killed himself by hanging in March 2017, according to the report. The center can house up to 1,940 immigration detainees while the U.S. government seeks to have them deported. Those detained include asylum seekers who recently arrived in the country seeking humanitarian protection and immigrants transferred to the facility after serving prison sentences for criminal convictions. The report also said detainees reported waiting months to see a doctor and that they were placed on wait lists for months or years for basic dental care, resulting in some cases of tooth loss and unnecessary extractions. One dentist at the facility told inspectors he did not have time to complete cleanings or fillings and suggested that detainees could use string from their socks to floss their teeth. Immigrant advocates including the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California complained several years ago about the quality of the facility's medical care. Michael Kaufman, a senior staff attorney at the ACLU Foundation of Southern California, said the report shows the center is not looking out for detainees' well-being and that ICE ignored earlier allegations of abuse and neglect. "It is long-past time for ICE to do what the Constitution and basic humanitarian principles require: to ensure the safety and welfare of immigrants incarcerated at Adelanto," he said in a statement. ___ Information from: Los Angeles Times, http://www.latimes.com/ With Googles hardware event fast approaching, it looks like the company just wants to get ahead of the rumoursnot that theres much left to tease at this point. But the companys official Google Japan YouTube channel just posted a teaser video that hints at a feature making a comeback from the previous generation of Pixel phones: Active Edge technology. Seen on the Pixel 2, Active Edge lets you perform certain functions or open apps by just squeezing the side of the phone. So, expect the new Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL to possibly carry the feature. Were wondering why Google is teasing it now, though. That said, well hear more about the new devices on October 9 at the Made by Google event. In a rebuke to the Trump administration, the International Court of Justice ordered the United States on Wednesday to ease some sanctions against Iran, including those related to the supply of humanitarian goods and the safety of civil aviation. In response, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that the United States would cancel a treaty signed in 1955 by the two countries that had provided a basis for friendly diplomatic exchanges and economic relations, long before Irans Islamic Revolution turned the two nations into enemies. The interim ruling by the U.Ns highest court, also known as the World Court, came in response to an urgent plea from Tehran after President Trumps announcement in May that he would withdraw from the 2015 international accord limiting Irans nuclear ambitions. His decision was followed by a first round of sanctions in August and a second round is due in November. The court order, unanimously handed down by its 15 judges, amounts to an injunction while Irans July lawsuit challenging the sanctions winds its way through the court a process that could take years. Iran, however, took the outcome as vindication. The decision proved once again that the Islamic Republic is right and the U.S. sanctions against people and citizens of our country are illegal and cruel, the Foreign Ministry in Tehran said, according to state media. During hearings in August, Iran argued that the U.S. was strangling the country through naked economic aggression and was violating the Treaty of Amity signed in 1955. Lawyers for the United States had argued that Iran was misusing the court because it had no jurisdiction in the case since the dispute involves U.S. national security. Marlise Simons and Alan Cowell are New York Times writers. STOCKHOLM (AP) Three researchers who "harnessed the power of evolution" to produce enzymes and antibodies that have led to a new best-selling drug and biofuels won the Nobel Prize in chemistry on Wednesday. Frances Arnold of the California Institute of Technology was awarded half of the 9-million-kronor ($1.01 million) prize, while the other half will be shared by George Smith of the University of Missouri and Gregory Winter of the MRC molecular biology lab in Cambridge, England. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, which chose the winners, said Arnold, 62, conducted the first directed evolution of enzymes, whose uses include "more environmentally friendly manufacturing of chemical substances such as pharmaceuticals and the production of renewable fuels." Arnold earned her PhD from U.C. Berkeley in 1985. Smith, 77, developed a method to evolve new proteins and Winter used the method to evolve antibodies, which are disease-fighting proteins in the blood. The first pharmaceutical based on Winter's work was approved for use in 2002 and is employed to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel diseases, the academy said. The chemical name of the drug is adalimumab, which has several trade named including Humira, one of the top-selling drugs in the world. Smith, speaking to The Associated Press after learning about this Nobel win, credited others for the work that led to his breakthrough. "Very few research breakthroughs are novel. Virtually all of them build on what went on before. It's happenstance. That was certainly the case with my work," he said Wednesday. "Mine was an idea in a line of research that built very naturally on the lines of research that went before." Smith said he learned of the prize in a pre-dawn phone call from Stockholm. "It's a standard joke that someone with a Swedish accent calls and says 'You won!' But there was so much static on the line, I knew it wasn't any of my friends," he said. American Chemical Society president Peter Dorhout praised the Nobel winners, saying "the laureates have used chemistry to accelerate the evolution of natural biological molecules that act as the critical machinery for living organisms. "The breakthroughs from these researchers enable that to occur thousands of times faster than nature to improve medicines, fuels and other products," he said. Experts said the developments for which the winners won the 2018 prize can be more ecological than many other chemical processes. Enzymes "are what all we organisms use to make our chemicals. So if you can harness enzymes for your own purposes, this is often more environmentally friendly than using heavy metals or toxic substances to make your chemicals," said Johan Aqvist, a member of the Nobel Committee for Chemistry. More for you Former Uc Immunologist Wins 2018 Nobel Prize In Medicine In other Nobel prizes this year, the medicine prize went Monday to James Allison of the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and Tasuku Honjo of Kyoto University, who learned how to release the brakes that cancer can put on the immune system, discoveries that helped cancer doctors fight many advanced-stage tumors and save an "untold" numbers of lives. Scientists from the United States, Canada and France shared the physics prize Tuesday for revolutionizing the use of lasers in research. Arthur Ashkin became the oldest Nobel Prize laureate at 96, while Donna Strickland of the University of Waterloo in Canada became only the third woman to win a physics Nobel. Strickland had worked with the third winner, Frenchman Gerard Mourou of the Ecole Polytechnique and the University of Michigan. The winner of the Nobel Peace Prize is to be announced Friday. The Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences, honoring Alfred Nobel, the man who endowed the five Nobel Prizes, will be revealed on Monday. No Nobel literature prize will be awarded this year due to a sex abuse scandal at the Swedish Academy, which choses the winner. The academy plans to announce both the 2018 and the 2019 winner next year although the head of the Nobel Foundation has said the body must fix its tarnished reputation first. The man at the center of the Swedish Academy scandal, Jean-Claude Arnault, a major cultural figure in Sweden, was sentenced Monday to two years in prison for rape. ___ Heintz reported from Moscow. Malcolm Ritter and Chris Chester in New York contributed to this story. A convicted San Francisco bank robber is accused of a spate of new bank robberies around the Bay Area and was indicted Tuesday by federal prosecutors. The U.S. Attorney's Office says Timothy Wayne Phillips, 51, robbed three banks between Aug. 29 and Sept. 7, stealing more than $7,000 in a little more than a week's time. He also tried to rob a fourth bank but didn't succeed. Federal court records show Phillips was on parole when he committed the robberies. He pleaded guilty to three counts of bank robbery in 2007 and was still under supervised release when prosecutors say he started targeting banks again in recent months. The alleged crime spree started Aug. 29 when Phillips made off with $5,449.90 from a U.S. Bank branch in San Bruno, prosecutors said. A week later on Sept. 6, he took $479 from a Wells Fargo branch in San Francisco's Financial District, court records show. The next day, Sept. 7, he headed to Walnut Creek, where he tried to rob City National Bank but didn't succeed. The indictment didn't provide more details about the attempted robbery. Prosecutors say Phillips then robbed a Wells Fargo branch in Berkeley that same day, escaping with $1,407. Prosecutors did not say when Phillips was arrested. He has his first appearance in federal court on Thursday. Copyright 2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. OAKLAND (BCN) Constituents of Oakland's District 6 will have a chance to hear from the five people running for City Council at a debate planned for Wednesday at Mills College. The district, which covers a large area of East Oakland and the hills, is currently represented by Councilwoman Desley Brooks, who has been on the council for nearly 16 years. But Brooks has drawn criticism for her governing style -- Mayor Libby Schaaf in April issued an official statement attacking Brooks for her "divisive personal attacks and unethical behavior." Schaaf blamed Brooks for the decision of Councilwoman Annie Campbell Washington to not seek reelection. Brooks also was found guilty in civil court of assaulting former Black Panther Elaine Brown at the Everett and Jones restaurant in Jack London Square. The City Council eventually settled that case for $2.2 million. Brooks was narrowly re-elected in 2014. Under the city's ranked-choice voting system, she won 42.8 percent of first place ballots and finished with 52.3 percent. For her part in seeking reelection, Brooks has emphasized public safety, touting her efforts to have the ShotSpotter gunfire detection system expanded and pushing for better crime analysis and mapping for Oakland police. She also has campaigned against illegal dumping. A pilot program in District 6 of proactive dumping pickup, as opposed to responding to complaints, appears to have shown results. This year, four challengers are running against Brooks. Natasha Middleton, a management analyst in the Alameda County Probation Department, presents herself as a budget wonk on her campaign website. She emphasizes improving safety through community partnerships with law enforcement and providing services for homeless people. "Natasha is running because she knows Oakland needs leaders who will fight our most serious problems, not fight amongst themselves," her campaign website states. Marlo Rodriguez, who has worked as a nurse for 25 years, also emphasizes safety and housing, though she takes a more critical tone with the Police Department, saying that scandals bring distrust in the community. She says her mother was a police officer for 11 years, which she says will help her "build bridges with police officers who are here to protect and serve the members of the community." Rodriguez also proposes to bring a WNBA team to Oakland to replace the Golden State Warriors, who are moving to San Francisco. Loren Taylor, a businessman who runs his own consulting firm, emphasizes economic development, advocating for a District 6 business incubator, to recruit new companies to move to East Oakland and for investing in job training programs. He also says he will work to improve homeless services, build more affordable housing and build police-community partnerships. Mya Whitaker, a program director with the Bay Area Urban Debate League, was also a Youth Commissioner with the Citizens' Police Review Board from 2015 to 2017. She advocates for more spending on homelessness and is opposed to selling public land to private companies. She also advocates for reducing crime by increasing services and mitigating trauma, such as by providing mental health services, financial literacy and job training programs. Wednesday's debate begins at 7 p.m. in the Mills College Lorry I. Lokey Graduate School of Business and Public Policy at 5000 MacArthur Blvd. Copyright 2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. MARTINEZ (BCN) An unlicensed driver who was at the wheel of an SUV that fatally rear-ended another vehicle on state Highway 4 in Pittsburg last October was found guilty of vehicular manslaughter this afternoon, according to a spokesman for the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office. Around 8 a.m. Oct. 4, westbound traffic was slowing down just west of Railroad Avenue due to an earlier collision involving a motorcycle. Theresa Frazer slowed down her Nissan Sentra, and Frank Newkirk crashed his Chevrolet Tahoe into the back of her vehicle. Frazer, 46, was pronounced dead at the scene and her passenger suffered major injuries. Newkirk also suffered major injuries and his two passengers, a woman and child, were also transported to the hospital. Five other vehicles crashed behind Frazer and Newkirk, according to the California Highway Patrol. In addition to gross vehicular manslaughter, the jury also convicted Newkirk of driving without a license. According to the charging document, he was also on probation at the time of the crash. Newkirk faces up to six years in prison when he returns to court for sentencing. Copyright 2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. SAN FRANCISCO (BCN) The San Francisco Police Commission this evening will consider adopting a new policy that outlines how officers should interact with transgender and non-gender conforming individuals. At their regular meeting, the commission will discuss and possibly vote on the new Department General Order "Interacting with Transgender, Gender-Variant and Nonbinary Individuals." According to the policy, "discrimination and harassment of any kind based on actual or perceived gender, gender identity and or gender expressions is strictly prohibited. The gender identity of all persons, including members, shall be respected." Once in place, officers will be directed to refer to people by their adopted name and treat them in accordance with their gender identity, regardless if their identification does not recognize that gender identity. Officers would also be limited on requiring proof or challenging an individual's gender identity. In addition, the policy would require that officers conducting strip searches or any other search beyond a pat down ask a transgender or non-gender conforming individual, "What gender officer would you prefer to search you?" The Police Commission is set to meet at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall. Copyright 2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. SAN FRANCISCO (BCN) A Santa Rosa doctor has been indicted by a federal grand jury in San Francisco on charges of illegally distributing opioids on three occasions. Thomas Keller, 72, was indicted under seal last Thursday, according to U.S. Attorney's Office spokesman Abraham Simmons. The indictment was unsealed after Keller made an initial appearance before a federal magistrate in San Francisco on Tuesday. Simmons said the indictment alleges that Keller distributed the three different drugs in 2017 and 2018 while knowing that his action was outside the scope of his professional practice and not for a legitimate purpose. Keller is accused of distributing oxycodone to a person in June 2017, tramadol to another person this March and fentanyl to a different person in July. He is also charged with two counts of health care fraud related to billing. The charges carry possible maximum sentences ranging from five to 20 years in prison if he is convicted. Keller's next court appearance will be on Oct. 16 before U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria, the trial judge assigned to the case, for the setting of future court dates. Copyright 2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. SAN FRANCISCO (BCN) San Francisco Board of Supervisors today unanimously passed an ordinance requiring that women be depicted in at least 30 percent of the city-sponsored artwork contains non-fictional people. Along with the new policy, the ordinance also directs the city's Arts Commission to erect a statue of famed author and onetime San Francisco resident Maya Angelou at the main library. "Across our nation, women are underrepresented not only in leadership positions but also in public spaces," Supervisor Catherine Stefani said. "The accomplishments of great women deserve to be recognized alongside the accomplishments of great men." The legislation was initially proposed by former District 2 Supervisor and Mayor Mark Farrell and was revived by Stefani. Stefani also secured the final funds for the statue of Angelou. The legislation includes starting a fund to construct and maintain public artwork depicting women. Stefani said she'd ultimately like to see the city reach 50 percent representation of women. The San Francisco Arts Commission currently has 585 permanent works of art throughout the city, including 87 statues. Of those, only two depict non-fictional women including a bust of former San Francisco Mayor Sen. Dianne Feinstein inside City Hall and a statue of Florence Nightingale at Laguna Honda Hospital and Rehabilitation Center. Supervisors Hillary Ronen and Vallie Brown cosponsored the legislation. Copyright 2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. The Oakland A's are hosting a Wild Card Watch Party at the Oakland Coliseum today for fans who want to gather to watch the A's as they play the American League wild card game in New York. The A's play the New York Yankees at 5:08 p.m., and the watch party at The Treehouse complex above the left field bleachers at the Coliseum starts at 4 p.m. No ticket or parking fee is required to enter the Coliseum for the watch party, and the stadium's parking gates at 66th Avenue open at 3 p.m., according to the team. Fans should enter on the east side of the ballpark using the glass doors across from the BART walkway. The A's are in the postseason for the first time since 2014 after finishing the regular season with a record of 97-65. If Oakland defeats New York in the one-game wild card playoff, the A's will play the Boston Red Sox in the best-of-5 AL Division Series starting Friday. An Alameda County sheriff's sergeant has been charged with four felonies for the alleged illegal and secret recordings of juvenile suspects in an interview room in March, prosecutors said today. Sgt. James Russell was charged with four counts of eavesdropping on or recording confidential communications for his alleged actions at the Eden Township sheriff's substation on March 15, according to the Alameda County District Attorney's Office. The allegations against Russell came out in August when the county public defender's office provided evidence of the recording of confidential conversations between juvenile suspects and their attorneys. The public defender's office obtained body camera footage of a conversation between Russell and Lt. Timothy Schellenberg in which Russell said he has been recording conversations between attorneys and clients. When the district attorney's office learned of the recorded conversations, the cases of those juveniles were dismissed. Prosecutors are still reviewing all other cases submitted by the sheriff's office since the start of 2018 to see if more will be dismissed. Sheriff's spokesman Sgt. Ray Kelly said the sheriff's office is aware that charges have been filed against Russell, who has been placed on administrative leave. Livermore police are warning residents about the dangers of opioids after two teenagers died in the city in recent days in what investigators believe were drug overdoses. Police wrote in a Facebook post on Tuesday that the deaths of the two teens were possibly accidental opioid overdoses, and that investigators are looking into possible links between the deaths. More details about the cases, which occurred on separate days and at different locations, were not immediately released. Police said many prescription drugs are being infused with fentanyl and being sold on the street to unsuspecting users, and the unpredictability in the resulting drug products can dramatically increase the risk of a fatal overdose. Police said toxicology results will determine whether fentanyl or other opioids contributed to the two recent deaths. Livermore police patrol officers are equipped with Narcan, a drug that serves as an antidote to opioid overdose, since they are often the first emergency responders to arrive at the scene of an overdose. A gas leak in Hillsborough this morning caused police to issue a shelter in place order and to close roads in the area. Hillsborough police issued an advisory at 10:20 a.m. about the leak in the 2200 block of Oakdale Road. Shortly after 11:10 a.m., police said the shelter in place order has been lifted. PG&E crews will remain at the scene to repair the line, and the road closures will be in effect until the repairs are complete. Fire crews contained a fire at a home in Milpitas on Tuesday afternoon, according to fire officials. The blaze was reported around 2:35 p.m. in the 1100 block of Moon Court. Nobody was injured and the fire was extinguished at 2:51 p.m. after causing "significant damage" to the home's kitchen and attic, fire officials said. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Hydrogen sulfide gas in a sewer pipe led to a shelter in place order in the Vallejo Street area of Petaluma on Tuesday afternoon, fire officials said. The rotten egg smell made some members of the Petaluma Water Resources and Conservation Department feel ill when they were flushing a sewer line adjacent to 621 Washington St. around 1 p.m., according to the fire department. The workers placed a gas monitor into the sewer piping and found a high level of hydrogen sulfide. Petaluma police shut down Vallejo Street between Madison and East Washington streets and residents were advised to shelter in place, fire officials said. Fire crews did not find any of the gas outside of the sewer system, inside a nearby Whole Foods store or inside any residences, and the incident was mitigated by 4:30 p.m., fire officials said. No injuries were reported. Hydrogen sulfide is a colorless gas that is poisonous, corrosive and flammable. A Santa Rosa doctor has been indicted by a federal grand jury in San Francisco on charges of illegally distributing opioids on three occasions. Thomas Keller, 72, was indicted under seal last Thursday, according to U.S. Attorney's Office spokesman Abraham Simmons. The indictment was unsealed after Keller made an initial appearance before a federal magistrate in San Francisco on Tuesday. Simmons said the indictment alleges that Keller distributed the three different drugs in 2017 and 2018 while knowing that his action was outside the scope of his professional practice and not for a legitimate purpose. Keller is accused of distributing oxycodone to a person in June 2017, tramadol to another person this March and fentanyl to a different person in July. He is also charged with two counts of health care fraud related to billing. The charges carry possible maximum sentences ranging from five to 20 years in prison if he is convicted. Calls to the Berkeley police non-emergency line will be handled by an automated routing system that launched this morning, according to police. People calling the non-emergency line at (510) 981-5900 will be presented with options for various services and the automated system will route the call to the appropriate person who can help them, police said. The new system will not impact the 911 system and is meant to help staff at the department's Public Safety Communications Center, which handles more than 1,300 calls for service per day, so they can handle calls more efficiently. Copyright 2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. A Ventura County man who says he was molested by a priest four decades ago has sued 10 of California's 11 Roman Catholic dioceses, alleging they joined in a coverup of priests' abuse of children. The lawsuit filed Tuesday in Los Angeles County Superior Court by Thomas Emens, 50, of Camarillo, asks for a court order requiring the dioceses to release the names and alleged history of abuse of all priests accused of molesting children. San Francisco Bay Area dioceses named as defendants include the Archdiocese of San Francisco and the dioceses of Santa Rosa, Oakland, San Jose and Monterey. The California Catholic Conference, a policy-making body made up of California bishops, is also named, along with all other California dioceses except the Diocese of Stockton. Michael Reck, a lawyer for Emens, said, "The most important reason for filing this lawsuit is to force the dioceses to disclose what they knew and when they knew it about each of the offenders." A plane crash in Palo Alto that killed a pilot and injured two other people last month happened after the pilot had difficulty finding the airport, although he had flown to it multiple times, according to a preliminary report by the National Transportation Safety Board. Pilot W. John Spencer was providing free medical transport for a woman and her daughter through the nonprofit Angel Flight West at about 11 a.m. on Sept. 4 when the plane crashed in wetlands near the airport. The Mooney M20J plane had left from Redding Municipal Airport at 9:24 a.m. and Spencer checked into Palo Alto Airport air traffic control a few minutes before landing to say he was about 10 miles north, the report said. The controller told Spencer to "fly to KGO," and when Spencer said he didn't know what KGO was, the controller explained it was a set of radio towers and directed him to instead fly to the Dumbarton Bridge. The plane was cleared to land minutes later, but Spencer told the controller he was having difficulty locating the airport, according to the report. Spencer then said he would abort the landing by doing a "go around" and declined help, saying he "just came in too fast." The Sonoma County District Attorney's Office said it needs more time to investigate possible charges against members of a grassroots animal rights network who protested at a Petaluma poultry raising farm Saturday afternoon. Prosecutors made the announcement Tuesday. Sonoma sheriff's deputies arrested 58 people on suspicion of various offenses including felony burglary and conspiracy and misdemeanor trespassing on the property of McCoy's Poultry Services at 112 Jewett Road. All but one man and six women posted $2,000 bail and were released from the Sonoma County jail. Sonoma County Superior Court Judge Jamie Thistlethwaite announced the prosecution had not made a filing decision and she released the seven remaining protestors still in custody Tuesday afternoon. Dozens of members of the Berkeley-based Direct Action Everywhere animal rights network, who were dressed in blue T-shirts, erupted in applause and cheers in the courtroom then rallied outside the courthouse. Direct Action Everywhere spent more than $100,000 to post bail for the protestors who were arrested, spokesman Matt Johnson said. San Francisco District Attorney George Gascon has announced he will not seek re-election in November 2019, citing his elderly mother's failing health. Gascon made the announcement Tuesday. In a statement issued late Tuesday afternoon, Gascon said the years he has served as district attorney have been "the most professionally rewarding years of my life." Gascon's statement continued, "After two successful elections, I began preparation for a third full term. Knowing full well what is involved in running a winning campaign, my mother's weakened health weighed heavily on my mind. She is 90 years old and has much greater needs than when I took office. I am her only child and have the responsibility to be there for her." Contra Costa County Sheriff's detectives said that they've closed a cold-case homicide that went unsolved for more than 30 years, but the suspect is dead. Detectives made the announcement Tuesday. Virginia Vincent was found dead in her Danville apartment by a neighbor Sept. 20, 1985, at the age of 57. Investigators were unable to identify a suspect at the time, but they entered DNA from the scene into a database in 2002 and still no match was found. But last year investigators asked the state Bureau of Forensic Services to use DNA from the crime scene in a "familial search." Investigators used the database to look for a partial match involving a blood relative of the suspect. Then in June they were notified of a partial match and based on that information they exhumed the body of Joey Lynn Ford, who died in 1997 at 36. Investigators extracted a DNA sample and matched it to the DNA evidence gathered at the crime scene. A new city of Oakland-operated village of Tuff Sheds to temporarily house homeless people near Lake Merritt is expected to open this week, and shortly thereafter the city will begin enforcing a camping ban around the lake, city officials announced. The announcement was made Tuesday. Mayor Libby Schaaf hosted a news conference Tuesday at the third shed village the city has constructed in the last year. The roughly 136-square-foot plastic sheds have been renovated to sleep two on narrow cots with a curtain separating the roommates. City staff are putting the finishing touches on the camp, including adding a green screen to the chain link fence surrounding it, and once complete will begin inviting homeless people camping by the lake to move in. If they don't, they'll eventually be told to move anyway. The camp holds about 40 people -- fewer than are estimated to be camping near the lake -- so some won't be able to get a place right away. Assistant to the City Administrator Joe DeVries said that people will rotate out of the Tuff Sheds once they find more stable housing. "We don't consider this housing, we consider this moving from a tent to a bed," DeVries said. Copyright 2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 3) ACTS OFW Rep. John Bertiz was rushed to the hospital due to chest pains, a lawmaker said Wednesday. Minority Leader Danilo Suarez said Bertiz, who has been at the forefront of the viral airport security check video, was hospitalized on Tuesday after complaining of chest pains. Buhay party-list Rep. Lito Atienza said stress may have been a factor, as Bertiz was already "suffering from hypertension." He added Bertiz underwent a heart bypass surgery a few years ago. "Congressman Bertiz is suffering from hypertension and high blood pressure. So it's very very probable na talagang tumaas yun presyon niya (that he had a high blood pressure)," Atienza told reporters Wednesday. Bertiz drew flak from netizens when a clip of him arguing with airport security went viral on Sunday. In a security camera video posted on Facebook by a netizen, Bertiz, who was going through Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) security, appeared to have forcibly taken the ID of an airport personnel. He argued the staff did not perform the same security checks on "Chinese-looking nationals." The lawmaker has since apologized for the video, saying his actions were "uncalled for" in a public official. READ: Roque advises gov't officials: Follow Duterte's 'no special treatment' example The House of Representatives ethics committee on Wednesday began a preliminary investigation on the viral airport video, following a recommendation from the minority bloc. Bertiz, meanwhile, also filed a resolution of his own, directing the same committee to probe the incident. CNN Philippines Correspondent Xianne Arcangel contributed to this report. Cougars claim Sectional championship Carroll football, under first-year coach Blake Betzner, will play in its first regional in 18 years when it hosts North... Statewide housing stability partnership launched The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority will accept applications from renters in all 92 counties for the Indiana Supreme... DCSC approves preventive maintenance contract Delphi Community School Corporation (DCSC) Board of School Trustees decided some months ago it would be prudent to practice preventative... Delphi Chamber votes to dissolve A unanimous vote was cast Monday night in favor of the resolution to dissolve the Greater Delphi Chamber of Commerce.... President Donald Trump mocked testimony by Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, playing up Ford's supposed answers to the crowd for laughs at a campaign rally held Tuesday in Mississippi. Trump spoke to the crowd about the allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, before he launched into a mock version of the testimony given by Ford regarding an alleged sexual assault that she said took place when the two were in high school. In his version of the testimony by Ford, the president re-enacted the line of questioning on the incident, mimicking Ford's answers with either, "I don't know," or, "I don't remember." "I had one beer!" Trump yelled to the crowd, as Ford. "I had one beer." "Do you think it was --" Trump continued, "Nope, it was one beer." "How did you get home?" Trump asked. "I don't remember," he replied to himself, as Ford. "How'd you get there? I don't remember. Where is the place? I don't remember. How many years ago was it? I don't know," Trump said to the crowd, pausing as attendees cheered. "What neighborhood was it in? I don't know," Trump went on. "Where's the house? I don't know. Upstairs, downstairs ... Where was it? I don't know. "But I had one beer. That's the only thing I remember." More for you Takeaways From The Times' Investigation Into Trump's Wealth This is a vastly different reaction to Ford than what Trump previously offered when asked about her testimony in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee. He had previously called Ford a "credible witness," stating that he "thought her testimony was very compelling" following last week's proceedings. Trump went on to say Kavanaugh's life is "in tatters" following the allegations, and called Democrats "evil," saying that the party was looking to "destroy people." Ford's attorney, Michael Bromwich, responded to the president's remarks via social media, calling the re-enactment "vile." "A vicious, vile and soulless attack on Dr. Christine Blasey Ford," Bromwich said via his Twitter account. "Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice." See the president's speech in the clip above. Read Dianne de Guzman's latest stories and send her news tips at ddeguzman@sfchronicle.com. Start receiving breaking news emails on wildfires, civil emergencies, riots, national breaking news, Amber Alerts, weather emergencies, and other critical events with the SFGATE breaking news email. Click here to make sure you get the news. BAGHDAD She was a 22-year-old former beauty queen, fashion model and social media star, whose daring outfits revealed tattoos on her arms and shoulder. Tara Fares won fame and 2.8 million Instagram followers in conservative, Muslim-majority Iraq with outspoken opinions on personal freedom, such as: Im not doing anything in the dark like many others; everything I do is in the broad daylight. It was also the way she died. Last week, she was shot and killed at the wheel of her white Porsche on a busy Baghdad street during the day, apparently by a man who leaned in briefly and opened fire before speeding away on a motorcycle with an accomplice. The killing, caught on security camera video, followed the slaying of a female activist in the southern city of Basra and the mysterious deaths of two well-known beauty experts. The violence has shocked Iraq, raising fears of a return to the kind of attacks on prominent figures that plagued the country at the height of its sectarian strife. Iraq is still recovering from its bloody fight against Islamic State militants. The country has been without a government since national elections in May, and riots have repeatedly broken out in the south over the authorities failure to provide basic services. These harrowing crimes are worrying us, said Iraqi human rights activist Hana Adwar. There are groups that want to terrify society through the killing of popular women and activists ... and to tell other women to abandon their work and stay at home. Fares, with an Iraqi father and a Lebanese mother, first became famous in 2015 when she won an unofficial Baghdad beauty pageant organized by a social club. She has become a social media darling, with bold posts and photos of herself posing in elaborate makeup, tight jeans and blouses that showed off her tattoos. A YouTube channel drew more than 120,000 followers in addition to those on Instagram, where she shared makeup tips. While many young Iraqis shared her videos and pictures, others criticized her lifestyle as racy and un-Islamic. A week after Fares death, Rasha al-Hassan, the owner of a well-known beauty center in Baghdad, was found dead in her home. Authorities initially said she suffered a heart attack. On Sept. 25, a gunman killed Soad al-Ali, a prominent activist in the southern city of Basra. Al-Ali had organized protests demanding better services and jobs and decried the growing influence of Iran-backed Shiite militias in the area. Sinan Salaheddin is an Associated Press writer. PALU, Indonesia Trucks carrying food for desperate survivors of the earthquake on Indonesias Sulawesi island rolled in with a police escort Tuesday to guard against looters, while the death toll from the disaster soared past 1,200. Four days after the magnitude 7.5 earthquake and tsunami struck, supplies of food, water, fuel and medicine had yet to reach the hardest-hit areas outside Palu, the largest city that was heavily damaged. Many roads in the earthquake zone are blocked and communications lines are down. We feel like we are stepchildren here because all the help is going to Palu, said Mohamad Taufik, 38, from the town of Donggala, where five of his relatives are still missing. There are many young children here who are hungry and sick, but there is no milk or medicine. The death toll reached 1,234, national disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said in Jakarta, the capital. Hundreds of other people were injured, and scores of uncounted bodies could still be buried in collapsed buildings in Sigi and Balaroa under quicksand-like mud caused by Fridays quake. The U.N. humanitarian office reported that needs are vast, with people urgently requiring shelter, clean water, food, fuel and emergency medical care. Water is the main issue because most of the supply infrastructure has been damaged, U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters at U.N. headquarters in New York. More than 25 countries offered assistance after Indonesian President Joko Jokowi Widodo appealed for international help. Little of that, however, has reached the disaster zone, and increasingly desperate residents grabbed food and fuel from damaged stores and begged for help. Haq said the government is coordinating emergency efforts, and U.N. and relief agencies are on the ground or en route. He said the agencies are working closely with the government to provide technical support. An aircraft carrying 3,170 gallons of fuel had arrived. and trucks with food were on the way with police escorts to guard against looters. Indonesia, a vast archipelago of 260 million people, is frequently struck by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis because of its location on the Ring of Fire, an arc of volcanoes and fault lines in the Pacific Basin. Niniek Karmini and Stephen Wright are Associated Press writers. CAPE COAST, Ghana Melania Trump said Wednesday that she will never forget her visit to a former slave holding facility on Ghanas coast. She called it very emotional and really something that people should see and experience. The U.S. first lady spent nearly an hour on a guided tour of the 17th-century castle, which originally was built by the Swedes for the trading of timber and gold but eventually became a warehouse for slaves shipped to the New World. I will never forget (the) incredible experience and the stories I heard. The dungeons that I saw, its really something that people should see and experience, she said after she was asked to reflect on the visit. The first lady was led around the facility by museum director Kwesi Essel-Blankson. She spent about 10 minutes inside the dark, cramped dungeon where male slaves were housed. She then walked down a pathway leading to the Door of No Return, where slaves were shipped to the New World with no hope of returning to Africa. She walked out and back through the door with the guide before she laid a wreath, observed a moment of silence and signed a guest book. Its very emotional, the first lady said before departing. Trump arrived at the castle after an approximately 2-hour early morning drive from Accra, the capital city, where she has stayed since opening her first extended international trip as first lady on Tuesday. She added that the castle is a special place. Former President Barack Obama, the only black U.S. president, toured the castle with his family in 2009 and said it was a reminder of the capacity of human beings to commit great evil. Trump, who was born in Slovenia, is on her first visit to Africa, with a goal of highlighting child welfare on the continent. She toured an infant clinic in Accra and met with Ghanas first lady at the presidential palace after she arrived Tuesday. She also has stops planned this week in Malawi, Kenya and Egypt. Through it all, she will try her hand at putting a softer lens on her husbands administration abroad. President Trumps charged language about the continent may not make that any easier. He was widely reported as having maligned African countries and Haiti as shitholes, and he spoke of Nigerian immigrants as having lived in huts back home. Darlene Superville is an Associated Press writer. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Despite claims of being a self-made billionaire, President Donald Trump received over $400 million in today's dollars from his father's real estate operation -- which included two Staten Island properties -- that allowed him to amass a fortune and help build his brand, according to a published report. According to a New York Times analysis, Trump helped "his parents dodge taxes" in the 1990s, including "instances of outright fraud" that allowed him to greatly increase the fortune he received from them. Fred Trump transferred various mortgages -- including the mortgage on the Grymes Hill Apartments on Staten Island -- to Donald Trump and other family members, according to the New York Times. The deals -- known as family mortgages -- paid Donald Trump $7.8 million in today's dollars over the span of decades. Fred Trump's tax dodges were part of an effort to siphon off wealth to his children and avoid taxes with low valuations, stated the New York Times report. Fred Trump's children claimed to the Internal Revenue Service that no taxes were owed on the Tysens Park Apartments in New Dorp, according to the report. Donald Trump and his siblings had removed Tysens Park, a complex of eight buildings with 1,019 units, from an affordable housing program a year before their father died, meaning that there was no limit on their profits -- in fact they had already begun to jack up the rent, according to the New York Times. When Donald Trump and his siblings completed the sale of his father's real estate empire in May 2004 and received $177.3 million, or $236.2. million in today's dollars, he was unusually silent. "Trump did not return a phone call seeking comment," the Advance reported at the time. The New York Times investigation into Trump's finances showed that the president received at least $413 million in today's dollars from his father's real estate empire. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A New Brighton man has admitted to violently shaking his infant son in their apartment three weeks ago, which resulted in the boy suffering some brain injuries. Amari Santiago, 21, of the 100 block of Jersey Street, pleaded guilty on Tuesday in state Supreme Court, St. George, to a felony count of reckless assault of a child. The incident occurred at noon on Sept. 10, said a criminal complaint. Santiago, who stands 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs 215 pounds, shook the 3-month-old child causing subdural and retinal hemorrhaging, the complaint said. A law enforcement source said the boy has recovered from his injuries and is doing well. In exchange for his plea, the defendant will be sentenced on Nov. 15 to five years probation. He potentially faces jail time should he fail to comply with the terms of his probation. An order of protection has been issued against Santiago in the childs favor. Mr. Santiago acknowledges that he has to deal with the frustrations of a being a young father in a more appropriate way, said defense lawyer Louis Gelormino. To that end, he has agreed to take parenting classes in the hope that he will be back in the childs life soon. HIDDEN PAIN: Understanding and Preventing Suicide This feature is part of a month-long series. Click here for other stories. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Cops, firefighters, and EMTs have some of New York City's most grueling jobs. The constant barrage of death, violence and destruction can affect the mental health of the men and women who perform these jobs, and people across the country are trying to find ways to help them. In the most dire situations, those stressors can turn inward, and lead to self harm. Staten Island experienced the deaths by apparent suicide of two police officers in early 2017. Officers Ralph Conde, 33, and Yong Yun, 31, of the 121st and 120th precincts, respectively, both died in January of apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds. Mayor Bill de Blasio said at the time that he was "very concerned" about the deaths that occurred in such quick succession. "The folks who protect us and serve us go through tons of stress, some that you can see and some that you can't even see because it's deep inside them, and we have to support them," he said. Data on the number of suicides among first responders is hard to come by. A 2016 report from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reviewed the number of suicides in 2012 by occupational group in 17 states. Researchers found the highest suicide rates among three occupational groups -- farming, fishing and forestry; construction and extraction; and installation, maintenance, and repair -- none of which encompass first responders. However, the review noted prior research "suggested that higher suicide rates among police are related to stressors, including exposure to traumatic, violent and lethal situations, work overload, shift work and access to lethal means." It also found the highest suicide rates for women occurred among those in "protective service occupations," which include law enforcement officers and firefighters. Capt. Frank Leto, deputy director for the FDNY Counseling Service Unit (CSU), said members of the FDNY are a resilient group, but noted that research showed higher rates of depression, PTSD and substance abuse among first responders. "Firefighters and EMTs every day see things that most people don't experience in a lifetime," he said. "Over time, that starts to take its toll. It could be a car accident, a fire, a pediatric death, the suicide of a civilian. We respond to incidents like this every single day." He said he was unaware of data showing higher rates of suicide among first responders. There is "a lot of talk about it," and some of the risk factors associated with suicide are present among first responders, Leto said. Active and retired members of the FDNY experiencing those risk factors can turn to the CSU 24/7, but Leto said many departments across the country do not have access to the same kinds of resources. "Departments across the country look to us as a gold standard when it comes to behavioral health programs," he said. Like the FDNY, the NYPD is aware of the challenges its officers face on a daily basis, and what it can do to their mental health. The Police Department offers a number of services to both its retired and active-duty members, who may be experiencing mental health issues. A 24/7 employee assistance unit is available, staffed by both uniformed and civilian active duty members. There is also the Police Organization Providing Peer Assistance (POPPA), which was founded in 1996, originally for suicide intervention after the NYPD saw 26 suicides in 1994 and 1995 collectively. It has the recognition and support of the department, but is not directly a part of it. John Petrullo, the director of POPPA and a retired cop, said the organization uses a peer-to-peer method to help active-duty and retired officers get the help they need. "Members of the service, unlike the general public, have an added amount of stress due to the profession that they chose," he said. POPPA has separate lines for active-duty and retired officers that can be called 24/7. They have officers who call about things like stress, relationship problems or alcohol abuse. It is staffed entirely by volunteers, who either work or have worked as police officers, something Petrullo believes helps cops speak more openly about their problems. "Cops are going to see the worst of what the world has to offer, and deal with that," Petrullo said. "It's part of the culture where the average person doesn't understand what it's like to possibly see the things that, if a civilian saw them once, they might be running to the psychiatrist for 10 years." Some of the biggest challenges these organizations face is the stigma associated with mental health in the first responder professions. "People who do this kind of work usually have this bravado that they don't need help and they don't need support," Leto said. "But we here at the FDNY say it's a sign of courage to step forward when you're struggling." --- Related coverage: Fran Williams (photo courtesy of the family) STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Three Staten Island men have been charged with murder in the fatal shooting of a beloved New Brighton woman, 67, who was caught in gang-related crossfire following a brawl near the Staten Island Courthouse in July, authorities said. Sean Oliveras, 23, of West Brighton, Isaiah Kelson, 22, of Mariners Harbor, and Jaleel Hewitt, 26, of West Brighton, were arrested Tuesday morning and charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon in the shooting death of Frances E. Williams, police said. A fourth man, Marquis Ancrum, 22, of New Dorp, is charged with criminal facilitation in connection to the incident. The four suspects are gang affiliated, and were shooting at another man who was running down the street when Williams was struck in the head near 331 Jersey St. on July 10, said NYPD Inspector Mark DiPaolo at a press conference Tuesday at the 121st Precinct in Graniteville. "We believe she was the unintended target," he said. Authorities could not say which gang the defendants are affiliated with, but said the men grew up knowing each other. DiPaolo said investigators are still working to pinpoint which of the suspects was the alleged shooter. The nearly three-month probe was a collaborative effort between police and the community to ensure justice for Williams, said Assistant Chief Kenneth Corey, the NYPD borough commander. "Once again, they have proven that they deserve the title of 'Greatest Detectives in the World,'" Corey said in a statement to the Advance. Williams, affectionately known as "Ms. Franny" in New Brighton, died about a month after she was shot while standing at a bus stop near Jersey and Pauw streets, police said. The victim was on life support for two weeks before she died on Aug. 2 at Richmond University Medical Center in West Brighton. "The death of Franny Williams is a tragedy for the Staten Island community and my office will continue to work tirelessly to pursue justice for her friends and family," said District Attorney Michael E. McMahon. Shortly before the shooting, rival gang members were embroiled in a melee outside the Staten Island Courthouse that culminated in a fatal van strike on Fort Place. Authorities allege Prince Edmonds intentionally mowed down Robert Craigwell, 26, killing him when he was pinned between the van and a building at 22 Fort Place. According to a criminal complaint, Edmonds stole a 2012 Dodge Caravan on Hyatt Street, across from the courthouse, at about 11:45 a.m. Driving at a "high rate of speed," Edmonds turned the van toward Craigwell, who was standing in the street near Fort Place and Montgomery Avenue, said the complaint. Edmonds steered "directly" at Craigwell, "intentionally" hitting him and pinning him between the vehicle and the building, the complaint said. Craigwell was pronounced dead at the site. Edmonds was initially accused of second-degree murder, grand larceny and stolen-property possession. The defendant has denied the allegations. Authorities are still investigating how the four suspects are connected to Edmonds and Craigwell. To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account. We offer one free story view per month. If you register for an account, you will get two additional story views. After those three total views, we ask that you support us with a subscription. A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means youre helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much! Photo: Contributed The man who created a massively successful dating website is seeking approval for a liquor licence for a West Kelowna winery. Markus Frind, the brains behind PlentyOfFish.com, was seeking support from West Kelowna council on Tuesday to take his proposal to the provinces liquor and cannabis regulation branch. His proposed lounge would be located at Frind Estate Winery off Boucherie Road. Frind, a Vancouver native, created PlentyOfFish.com in 2003 and sold it to Match Group three years ago for $575 million. The website has been credited with creating more than one million babies. For more on this story, visit Okanagan Edge. I visited New York just over a week ago and my travelling companion Louise asked, So, why is it called the 'Big Apple'?" Well, according to the sages of the city, it started with two African-American stablehands in the 1920s who were overheard talking in New Orleans by racing journalist John J. Fitz Gerald. Where are you taking the horses after this race? asked one of the hands. Were heading for the big apple, came the reply. Well, youd better fatten up the skinners cos all youll get from the apple might be the core. Even with the rise of Asia, New York is still a critical centre for the big global financial moves. Credit:Shutterstock From that moment on, Fitz Gerald began each column with the header The Big Apple. The dream of every lad that ever threw a leg over a thoroughbred and the goal of all horsemen. There's only one Big Apple. That's New York. And the same is true for most of us in business. The governance theatre at the ABC has become the board spill that stopped the nation. The internal board warfare, the outing of political interference in board selection, a chief executive sacking and the chairmans ultimate fall onto a well-sharpened sword and the resultant chaos isnt over yet. Sound familiar? It was only four months ago that another of Australias venerable institutions, the AMP, was imploding in a similarly sensational way. A chairman forced to resign, the chief executive and general counsel shown the door, and the start of a ongoing cleanout of the board. Justine Milne...fell on well sharpened sword Of course AMPs troubles were the result of evidence of its corporate and potentially criminal activities that were unearthed at the royal commission. Thus it was an outside force. Brazilian prosecutors in Minas Gerais state said on Tuesday they reached a final compensation deal with mining companies Samarco, Vale and BHP Billiton regarding a 2015 dam burst, Brazil's largest ever environmental disaster. According to a statement from prosecutors released late on Tuesday, the deal allows for compensation payments to start to relatives of the 19 people killed in the disaster, as well as to people who lost their houses and other properties. 19 people were killed in the disaster. Credit:AP No financial details of the deal were disclosed in the short statement on Tuesday, but the chief prosecutor in the city of Mariana will hold a press conference on Wednesday to discuss the agreement. Brazil's worst environmental catastrophe happened when a dam designed to hold back mine waste from the Samarco iron pellets operation in Mariana burst, leaving a trail of destruction for hundreds of kilometres in Minas Gerais and Espirito Santo states. Australia's largest honey producer has rejected the findings of a scientific study that found almost one in five samples of local honey were adulterated, which has sparked expectations the consumer watchdog will broaden its probe into "fake" honey. Fairfax Media and the ABC on Wednesday revealed that tests by Macquarie University scientists found adulteration in 18 per cent of 38 samples of Australian honey bought at supermarkets and markets. Bees sit on a hive at a Beechworth Honey site in August. Credit:Jason South It followed revelations last month that a German lab discovered adulteration in several leading imported and blended honey products, including Capilano's Allowrie branded honey, and IGA's and Aldi's private brand products. That sparked an investigation from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, which has previously taken companies to court for selling "honey" that actually consisted of plant sugars. Inside the big top the warm, staccato notes of a pump organ and the pungent, telltale smell of sawdust fill the air. A vibrant live band flanks the stage as the acrobats spring into action and they are in a very fit state indeed. And while most modern circuses have since done away with live animals on the stage, Cardiff's NoFit State have returned to the classic round for their new show, Lexicon, at Melbourne Festival. Instead of a fearsome lion, a woman prowls through the audience, yelling at the top of her voice while wielding a half-drunk bottle, before throwing off her boots and skirt and scaling two thick ropes right to the top of the tent. Loading Instead of horses, there's a hodgepodge array of unicycles, bicycles and tricycles. In one act, a couple enjoys a game of chess, using a toilet seat for a table on the back of a trike that's hurtling around the stage at breakneck speed in reverse. It's all a bit mad, and not exactly your average night at the circus, let alone the theatre. This particular big top will be parked outside Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens for the duration of the festival, which kicks off tonight. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 3) President Rodrigo Duterte has sacked Labor Undersecretary Joel Maglunsod, one of the last left-leaning officials. "Joel [Maglunsod] pinaalis ko. Pinagbigyan ko sila noong bago ako kasi gusto ko ma Nandoon sila sa opisina, Joel [Maglunsod], sila lahat," Duterte said in a speech at the Camp Juan Ponce Sumuroy in Catarman, Northern Samar Tuesday. [Translation: "I fired Joel Maglunsod. I granted their wish at first because I wanted them in office, all of them."] "Pero in the long run, gusto nila pati sila magdala ng gobyerno (But in the long run, they wanted to take over the government)," he added. Duterte, a self-described left-leaning leader, appointed Maglunsod and other left-leaning individuals to the Cabinet as he reached out to communist rebels to talk peace. But peace negotiations have been called off and officials with leftist affiliations have either been fired, rejected by the Commission on Appointments, or resigned. Duterte disclosed Maglunsod's exit as he again lashed out at workers holding labor strikes. "Sabihin mo sa kanila strike sila nang strike (Tell them if they continue to hold strikes), they will paralyze the economy," Duterte said. READ: Duterte blames labor group's strikes for factory closures "'Pag wala nang pera ang mga trabahante tapos magkagulo, mapipilitan ako. Ayaw ko. Pero kung papasukan na, huhulihin ko lahat 'yang Mayo Uno at si Joel [Maglunsod], iyong Undersecretary ng DAR - Labor," he said. [Translation: "If workers have no more money and there would be chaos, I will be forced. I don't want to but if they would enter, I would arrest all members of Mayo Uno and Joel Maglunsod, the Labor Undersecretary."] Maglunsod was a former Anakpawis representative and leader of militant labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU). KMU in a statement on Wednesday slammed Duterte's move against Maglunsod, whom they described as the workers' "voice and representative inside the bureaucracy despite the odds and rotten system inside the agency." "Now that Maglunsod is out of the agency, DOLE (Department of Labor and Employment) has totally lost its credibility and returned to its nature of being an anti-workers agency and an institution for big businesses and capitalists," said Ed Cubelo, KMU Metro Manila Chairperson. The group also said Duterte should blame himself for strikes as he failed to end contractualization and increase workers' wages. Earlier, Liza Maza, another activist appointee, resigned as Anti-Poverty Commission Secretary. She said the Duterte administration is taking a path that no longer aligns with her advocacies. Maza said the last straw was the issuance of an arrest order against her and three other former lawmakers over a revived murder charge - which she described as political harassment. The Commission on Appointments earlier rejected Rafael Mariano as Agrarian Reform Secretary and Judy Taguiwalo as Social Welfare Secretary, prompting criticisms that the administration was not serious in its push for reform and peace. The two were nominated by the National Democratic Front, which represents rebels in peace talks. Photo: Pixabay When a Penticton woman's wallet was stolen from her car in August, she thought the worst of the headache was having to cancel her cards and replace her IDs. Last week, she discovered the trouble was far from over. Julie, which is a pseudonym to protect the woman's privacy, reported her wallet's theft to RCMP, got new identification and thought nothing more of it, until she received an odd note late in September. "I got a Facebook message from an old colleague in Vancouver," Julie said. "She was like, 'Hey, this is super random, but I think I found your Costco card.'" Julie's friend had been walking home in Vancouver when she and her husband discovered a pile of cards by the side of the road. They were all of no real value, like membership cards, but Julie's name popped out. "When I told her that I didn't live in Vancouver anymore, she was able to guess that I lived in Penticton, because apparently a bunch of the other cards were from people in Penticton," Julie said. "She said it looked like a lot of people had gotten their wallets stolen from Penticton." Julie found the discovery strange, but assumed the thief had travelled to Penticton and dumped the cards that were of no use. Then, two days later, she got a phone call from RIchmond RCMP, letting her know a lot more than her cards had been taken. "He asked, 'Are you the owner of a 2015 Jeep Cherokee?'" she said. "I said, 'No.'" The officer told Julie that he was investigating a vehicle in Richmond that was owned and insured under Julie's name, and needed to confirm it wasn't hers before proceeding to arrest the woman claiming to own it. "He determined I was the victim of identity fraud," Julie said. "He recommended I contact Equifax and ICBC to have all the insurance paperwork and vehicle registration removed from my accounts." Julie discovered that this woman had contacted 12 different lenders to attempt to use her credit scored to obtain loans. "Not all 12 had actually given this girl money, but a few of them had, from $1,000 to $35,000 worth of loans," Julie said. Richmond RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Dennis Hwang said the woman had a number of warrants out for her arrest from Kelowna. She was arrested Sept. 26 at 2:45 p.m. near the 9400 block of No. 2 Road in Richmond. He said that often in identity theft cases, the perpetrator is defrauding many individuals. "There's organized groups that do these things, that steal hundreds of these IDs," Hwang said. "When we arrest someone, they might have hundreds of IDs on them." Now Julie is faced with tracking down exactly how much damage this woman did to her identity and credit. "From what I understand, this process actually takes months before I'm fully cleared with everything that was done under my name," she said. "I haven't even finished calling all of the lenders. It's all been really time consuming." How do things change for Ruth this season? Shes in a much more vulnerable place. Shes really struggling and having an identity crisis because of her dad. With Season two, I think you have a much deeper understanding why she behaves like she does. People always go, Oh Ruth is such a badass character how does it feel to play her? And its much deeper than that. Its more that she has no choice. In many ways shes torn between two fathers. Yeah, and she hates the fact that her dad doesnt respect her and Marty does, even though she really loves that Marty acknowledges her and listens to her. Even though Marty has her running a strip club and laundering money. He hasnt been a model mentor. No, but I dont know who is great on the show. Well the pastors baby is great. No ones gonna be like, Oh that baby, what a jerk. Are the strip club scenes awkward to shoot? No, Im so used to it already. Everyone is just doing their jobs. Why do you think crime shows almost always include a strip bar, besides presumably for cheap titillation? Its a trope that refuses to die. Loading Because its uneasy. You feel like anything might happen at any moment. Isnt that a weird thing? People are intrigued but also scared about things that are uneasy. Have you been to the actual Ozarks? No. I should go, but I just havent had the time. We shoot in Atlanta, where there are people from all over the South. It makes it definitely easier to do the accent, because there are lots of people that [breaks into her Missouri accent] basically talk like this. Is there a trick to playing a Southerner without resorting to the redneck stereotype? I have a journal, and every character that I play, I write as the character, how I feel about things and how Im going to play it. So I will write, Dear Diary, today I had a bad day because Russ and Boyd and my dad and this and that. Shes a young girl and she wants the same things that any other young girl would want. She also has hope for a better life that shell do anything to get. Thats what makes it so sad, and also makes it human. I dont know if you remember, but I had that handbag. And I know its a prop, but its important because thats Ruth she wears something really ugly, but shell have the pink handbag she probably got at Walmart because she secretly wants a real leather pink bag. She wants nice things, and you realise this girl is a child. What did you relate to about the role? Nothing, to be honest. It was so hard to play her because I completely had to detach myself to get involved. But I am a very hopeful person, so I get that. This year you appeared as a Branch Davidian in Waco. You seem to spend a lot of time in cults. A journalist once described me as, go-to cult girl Julia Garner, and I thought that was really funny. Those are the interesting parts! Everyone is interested in cults. But I wouldnt say Im a go-to cult girl. I did Waco right after I did Season one of Ozark, and the story was really interesting and I also thought it was very different from Ruth. She was a sister-wife, and she was stuck in a scenario and she wasnt this rebellious girl, unlike Ruth. Everything has to be different from the last thing Ive done. Even if its another cult. Your characters are often tough on the outside with vulnerability showing through the cracks. Is that something you do consciously, or does it happen naturally? Loading Maybe a little bit of both. People dont have just one colour. They have multiple things on their mind even when theyre listening to another person, theyre thinking of something else. So you have to show multiple layers. And I think naturally, Im a very sensitive person so sometimes I have to even tone it down. So I dont know its a combination of both, its weird. Ozark got some Emmy nominations, but you did not. Was that disappointing? The most important Emmy nomination was for Jason [Bateman] he got them for actor and director. Jason is the show so that was great. He is like a mentor, in a way, and he really took me under his wing and I feel like he changed my life. I get recognised for this more than I have for any other project, I think because Netflix is just such a big thing now. Without giving anything away, Ruth is involved in some very intense scenes this season. Whats the toughest thing youve had to shoot? Mention the words Pine Gap to anyone who came of political age in the 1980s, and the lyrics of Midnight Oil's song about US military and cultural imperialism, Power and the Passion, probably spring to mind. "Flat chat, Pine Gap, in every home a Big Mac/And no one goes outback, that's that." But mention it to anyone under 40, writer Felicity Packard says, and "very few people have heard of it". It's no accident the joint Australian-American surveillance facility in the Central Desert, about 20 kilometres from Alice Springs, isn't really on the radar; secrecy is its stock in trade. And when it comes to the business of creating a drama set there, that's more blessing than curse. "It's a real place but so little is known about it, it just gave us a wonderful opportunity to explore something while keeping it real," says Packard, who created the show with Greg Haddrick. Essentially, what the six-part series explores is secrets and lies. Produced by Screentime (Underbelly, Anzac Girls) and co-funded by the ABC and Netflix, the show begins with the detection of a missile being aimed somewhere in Asia, far too close to where the US President happens to be at that moment. Is it deliberate or coincidence? And why didn't Pine Gap know about it beforehand? Really? Justin Milne as chairman of the ABC wanted to pay $750,000 to Kylie Minogue to sing a chugga-chugga motion, now you get the notion about how cool the ABC is? Thank Gawd, Michelle Guthrie and senior management knocked that one on the head before it went through or the fallout would have been nuclear! I kid you not, when your humble correspondent was paid what amounted to $30 an hour to do a story for Foreign Correspondent a couple of months ago just next to the highest rating one of the year, thanks for asking it sent a fair chunk of the commentariat into orbit, they were so upset, so I cannot begin to imagine how that one would have gone down. Either way, in recent times, for a certain breed of commentator, it is the ritual rant du jour: those ABC lefties and their wretched waste of taxpayer dollars! How dare they live off the public teat in such profligate fashion and carry on about such "leftist" things as the dangers of climate change, the tragedy of the stolen generation, the failings of Donald Trump etc! Theyre biased! Former ABC chairman Justin Milne thought it would have been "cool" for Kylie Minogue to front a PR blitz for the broadcaster. Credit:Steven Siewert, AAP All too often, those making the charges of "bias" are sitting on panels such as the one on Sky News After Dark on Tuesday evening consisting and I am not making this up of Paul Murray, Cory Bernardi, Pauline Hanson and Rowan Dean. A cyclist has died following a collision with a truck on a major road in Sydney's inner west. Emergency services were called to Liverpool Road (Hume Highway) at Cosgrove Road in South Strathfield about 3.45pm on Wednesday afternoon. The location of the accident. Credit:Google Maps A spokesman for NSW Ambulance said the man in his 50s "appears to have gone under the truck" which was "turning left onto the Hume Highway". He was unconscious and not breathing when paramedics arrived, and declared deceased at the scene, the spokesman said. Former police officer Daniel Hadley will apply to have his cocaine possession charge dealt with under mental health legislation, a court has heard. Mr Hadley, 28, the son of radio presenter Ray Hadley, was arrested in August while off-duty at a hotel in Rouse Hill in Sydney's north-west and charged with possessing a prohibited drug. Daniel Hadley was arrested after he was allegedly found with 0.66 grams of cocaine. The senior constable, who was charged after an investigation by the police professional standards command, was suspended after his arrest. Last month, NSW Police confirmed he has resigned. On Wednesday, solicitor Madeleine Walsh told Parramatta Local Court an application would be made to have the matter dealt with under section 32 of the Mental Health Act, under which the charge can be dismissed. Police have found a man who disappeared after a car crash in Sydney's CBD. Mark Rust has been missing since fleeing a car crash in the CBD on Wednesday. Credit:NSW Police Mark Rust, 31, had not been seen after fleeing the scene of a car crash on Kent Street about 8am on Wednesday, police said. His family and police held serious concerns for him, as they had not heard from him since the crash and he suffers from a medical condition. While the car crash was minor, a police spokeswoman said it was unclear if Mr Rust had been injured in the incident. Police have charged a man with murder after a mother was killed in a hit-run on a private property in Victoria's east on Tuesday. Gayle Potter, 46, was struck and killed at the property on Airfield Road, Traralgon, with devastated friends describing the mother as "a beautiful soul". Gayle Potter's death has left those who knew her devastated. Credit:Facebook A 53-year-old Traralgon man, who is believed to have known Ms Potter, was arrested over the incident at the property in Victoria's Gippsland region and was charged with one count of murder. He will face La Trobe Valley Magistrates Court on Thursday morning. Hundreds of angry Canberrans are expected to turn out at a weekend rally to demand the federal government reconsider its opposition to pill testing, as organisers label off-site drug-checking a "half-measure". Reason ACT and the Smashed Avocado Movement are coordinating the Garema Place rally, which will urge governments across Australia to roll out pill testing as a harm reduction measure. Organisers say the deaths of two people after suspected drug overdoses at the Defqon.1 festival in Sydney last month, and the National Capital Authority's subsequent refusal to allow pill testing at the upcoming Spilt Milk festival in Canberra spurred them into action. Dean Barnes of Reason ACT and Max Black of the Smashed Avocado Movement are holding a rally in Garema Place on Saturday to call for pill testing at Spilt Milk. Credit:Elesa Kurtz Reason ACT's Dean Barnes said he was shocked and angry to see NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian outrightly refuse to consider pill testing as part of her government's response to the Defqon deaths. Australia's top union official has urged Labor to back a radical reform agenda and pledge to rewrite industrial relations laws in government, including the introduction of industry-wide bargaining powers. In a written speech to be delivered at the John Curtin Research Centre on Thursday night, ACTU secretary Sally McManus said the enterprise bargaining system introduced by the Keating government was outdated and incapable of giving workers their "fair share" of productivity increases. "We have an imbalance of wealth and power in our country," Ms McManus said. ACTU Secretary Sally McManus has called on Labor to rewrite industrial relations laws if elected. Credit:James Alcock "Governments can do something about this power imbalance. They can change the rules so working people get a fair go again. This is the historic mission of both the trade union movement and the party we gave birth to." Photo: The Canadian Press New Brunswick Progressive Conservative Leader Blaine Higgs The struggle for control of the New Brunswick legislature moved to the courts Tuesday with recounts set for two ridings including one Saint John district where a lawyer for the Progressive Conservative candidate filed an affidavit alleging voting irregularities. An allegation that about 40 electors voted twice in the riding of Saint John Harbour, which was won by the Liberals by a 10-vote margin, was filed with the Court of Queen's Bench in Saint John on Monday. However, during Tuesday's hearing, the application was withdrawn, as the party's lawyer said he will delay re-filing it until the results of the judicial recount and the official results of the election are filed. Matthew Letson said if the recounts don't change the outcome in the district, then the application to have the Saint John result thrown out is expected to resume as early as next Tuesday. "If the recount doesn't change anything there are some serious irregularities that have caused our client concern and at this point our intention is to re-file to challenge the result based on those irregularities," said Letson, in a telephone interview after the hearing. The official recount of the Saint John Harbour result is scheduled to begin in the court at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, while a recount will also take place Wednesday at 9 a.m. in a Moncton court for the riding of Memramcook-Tantramar, which was won by the Green party by fewer than 25 votes over the Liberals. A shift of even a single seat could bear on which political party eventually gains control of the New Brunswick legislature after the unusual results of the Sept. 24 election. The Tories, led by Blaine Higgs, won 22 seats in the 49-seat legislature last week one more than the Liberals led by Premier Brian Gallant. Neither party has enough seats for a majority, and both leaders have been trying to gain support from the third parties holding the balance of power, with the Greens and the right-leaning People's Alliance each holding three seats. "If the Liberals go down to 20 seats, it certainly makes their chances of continuing as government even more narrow than they already are. Their chances of continuing as government are slim anyway," said Thomas Bateman, a political science professor at St. Thomas University in Fredericton. Meanwhile, Green Leader David Coon continued meeting with the Liberals and the Tories, though he said it's too early to even characterize the meetings as "talks," preferring to refer to them as "conversations." Coon said in a telephone interview he wants to find a stable solution that will change the nature of the highly partisan, two-party system that has prevailed in the province. "People voted to put an end to the old-style gotcha politics and voted for something far more co-operative and collaborative to tackle the challenges that New Brunswickers want us to find the solutions for," he said. "We're taking our time. We don't want to see any hasty decisions made." Asked whether an accord like the one between the NDP and the Greens in B.C. is likely with the Tories, given their policy differences over carbon taxes and hydraulic fracturing, Coon said he's going to stay in discussions. "We're talking to both of them. We haven't gone anywhere near talking about the substance of policies at all ... It's a conversation, a discussion at a high level," said Coon. "I wouldn't jump to any conclusions about what the outcome of our dialogue will be." So there. Now, its nothing new for the Greens to have their ideas, policies and their very existence mocked, sassed and dissed. It kind of comes with the membership card. But whats silly in this day and age is not taking the Greens and their supporters seriously. For one thing, there's quite a lot of them. Nearly 385,000 Victorians gave the Greens their first preference vote in lower house contests in the 2014 election, more than twice as many as the Nationals managed. Population growth alone should see the Greens easily crack the 400,000 mark when Victoria votes again in November. That is just too many votes for anybody to ignore Loading Premier Daniel Andrews and his Labor colleagues have got the memo. His large-scale solar and wind generation schemes and plans for the government to pay for solar panels, batteries and hot water systems in hundreds of thousands of Victorian homes. His renewable power target of 40 per cent by 2025. These could all be plausibly passed off as Greens policies. But it doesnt stop at environmental or energy policy. Two of Labors big ticket social reforms this term, voluntary assisted dying and the safe injecting room in Richmond, are both prime examples of the many Green dreams that came true in the end. Yes, Labor did the heavy lifting to get the legislation onto the statute books having come, quite late in the piece, to support the safe room and VAD. Nor should the role played by Reason Party MP Fiona Patten be underplayed. But its still hard to imagine either of those policies ever getting up if not for the long years of Greens lobbying, arguing, organising and yes, preaching in the face of plenty of people saying it would never happen. Despite those long-term successes, the Greens have had a tough couple of years, both at federal and state level, navigating the awkward adolescence between protest outfit and fair dinkum party of power. Various branches and state operations have been unprepared for bad people joining their ranks and engaging in ugly or even criminal behaviour, there is internal division and even hints of internalised trauma from all the years of being the party everybody loves to knock. Greens Victorian campaign launch with (left to right) Scott Ludlam, Greg Barber, Ellen Sandell and Adam Bandt. Credit:Angela Wylie Then there are Greens who have decided that turning the other cheek is no longer the way to go and have tried to take play the political and media establishments at their own games, digging dirt on opponents, heavying journalists. But those people are dead wrong. The Greens got to where they are today by being different and maintaining their good humour in the face of the often unfair attacks they cop. There arent many votes in trying to be the third force in politics that behaves just like the first and second. The Greens must also develop a working model for how to wield power when they win it. The party has twice used balance-of-power status to help Labor form minority governments in Tasmania. Both experiments ended in tears. Greens-supported Labor governments in the ACT since 2008 have been less traumatic than the Tassie experience, but have gone a lot better for Labor than for their partners. Now Victorian Greens Leader Samantha Ratnam and her colleagues need a plan because theres every chance they will end up as the balance of power when Victorian votes next month. That plan might include demands for ministries as the price of support for a minority Andrews government a common way to approach balance-of-power negotiations. So let that prospect sink in, Greens ministers slapping their plan for a gas ban on the cabinet table before the year is out. Australia must raise the diplomatic pressure on Myanmar to stop the murderous persecution of its Rohingya minority but we must be prepared for a long battle. The options are far from simple. The Herald this week reported on an Australian investigator seconded to the US State Department's Myanmar inquiry, who was so horrified by the evidence he had amassed, that he publicly urged the Morrison government to establish a peacekeeping mission and war crimes tribunal. Michael Stefanovic, a hardened former Victoria Police homicide detective who has also investigated war crimes in the Balkans, Darfur and the Congo, says hes never encountered worse horror, which includes a Rohingya man being forced to select a female refugee who was then publicly gang raped. Aung San Suu Kyi has failed to stop the violence against the Rohingya. Credit:AP The evidence amassed by Mr Stefanovic and others informed the State Department's conclusion last week that Myanmar's militarys attacks have been "extreme, large-scale, widespread and seemingly geared toward both terrorising the population and driving out the Rohingya resident. But the defiant Prime Minister came on stage to the strains of ABBAs Dancing Queen, performing a few robotic dance moves in a nod to her startling choreography on a recent trip to Africa. She won the audience over initially with self-deprecating humour, including a reference to last years disastrous speech in which she almost lost her voice in a coughing fit, was interrupted by a prankster and upstaged by disintegrating props. But she soon moved into a withering attack on Corbyn. His partys policies would cost the country 1 trillion ($1.8 trillion), send businesses fleeing Britain and inevitably require tax hikes, May said. It would be back to square one after years of slow recovery from the global financial crash. Loading May painted Corbyn as a Kremlin sympathiser, weak on defence, who poses as a humanitarian but was in thrall to ideology and not decent, moderate or patriotic. Millions were appalled at what Jeremy Corbyn has done to Labour, she said. "It is our duty to make sure he can never do it to our country." His party "rejects the common values that once bridged our [political] divide". She even quoted - and modified - a Labour slogan, saying the government must work "not for the few, not even for the many, but for everyone who is willing to work hard and do their best". Though the next election is not due until 2022, the subtext to Mays speech was that the government could fall earlier if it fails to win agreement on Brexit both in Brussels and Westminster. It took almost half an hour before May addressed the Brexit issue that has defined her term in office. Theresa May started with self-depreciating humour and dance moves, speaking for half an hour before turning to the Brexit issue. Credit:AP She reiterated that the UK must be prepared to choose "no deal" if there was not a good offer on trade and borders from Europe. The EU had so far given two options: one which would mean staying in the EU in all but name with unchecked immigration for EU nationals, big payments to Brussels and no unilateral trade deals, the other carving off Northern Ireland to keep it effectively in an EU customs union. Lets send a clear message we will never accept either of those choices, she said. The UK would take back control of our borders, laws and money its in the national interest. Loading May told her party they must come together as she began the toughest last few weeks of negotiations with the EU. And she made several unsubtle jabs at Johnson, without naming him, firstly pointing out the free trade option he preferred would not protect British jobs that relied on seamless borders for just-in-time industries. In a reference to a notorious Johnson comment on corporate opposition to Brexit (he reportedly said f--- business), May said her motto also used a four letter word ending in K: back business. But May acknowledged the after-effects of the financial crash had left people feeling the economy was not working for them. She outlined government policies on extra funding for the National Health Service including a new cancer strategy that she said was partly inspired by the death of her goddaughter and a boost to home building that would tackle the housing crisis, the biggest domestic policy challenge of a generation. Theresa May's husband, Phillip, watches her deliver a speech to the Conservative Party conference. Credit:Bloomberg People need to know their hard work has paid off, she said, promising a budget in 2019 that would end austerity economics and increase government spending. We stand at a pivotal moment in our history and it falls to our party to lead our country through it, she said. Her look of relief at the long speechs end was met with a standing ovation from her party, as loudspeakers played ELOs Mr Blue Sky. The chorus runs Mr Blue Sky please tell us why / You had to hide away for so long? / Where did we go wrong? The initial reaction to Mays speech was positive. Washington: The US State Department has stopped issuing visas to the same-sex partners of foreign diplomats sent to the United States or the United Nations in New York unless they are legally married. The shift, which began on Monday but was announced on Tuesday, drew sharp criticism from gay rights advocates, including those who work for the United Nations and could be affected. It also applies to people working in the US for the World Bank, NATO and other groups. Unmarried same-sex partners will not be granted diplomatic visas for the United States under new rules, despite same-sex marriage not being legal in most countries. Credit:Reuters It is likely to make it difficult for some diplomats to bring their partners to postings in the US because few countries in Asia, Africa and the Middle East recognise or allow same-sex marriages. Under the new rules, foreign couples will need to present proof of marriage to obtain the diplomatic family visas. But only a small number of the UN's 193 member states have legalised same-sex marriage. Washington: Four men from California described as serial rioters have been charged with inciting a riot during last summer's white supremacist rally and deadly counter-protests in Charlottesville, Virginia. The men travelled from California and repeatedly attacked the counter-protesters, resulting in serious injuries in some cases, and took part in a torchlight march a night earlier that also resulted in violence, the officials said. The four men are members of the California-based Rise Above Movement, a militant white-supremacist organisation, according to federal law enforcement officials. They were identified as Cole Evan White, 24, Benjamin Drake Daley, 25, Michael Paul Miselis, 29, and Thomas Walter Gillen, 34. Each was accused of inciting a riot and conspiracy. The counts each carry a maximum five-year prison sentence. The rally in Charlottesville in August last year, which brought together far-right groups under the banner Unite the Right, descended into violence and set off a national firestorm further stoked by US President Donald Trump blaming all sides. Wellington: A much-vandalised statue of Captain James Cook will be taken down in New Zealand after debate over its depiction of colonial history. Discussions over the statue in the North Island town of Gisborne have grown louder with the approach of the 250th anniversary of Cook's arrival in New Zealand next year. Captain Cook statue in Gisborn, NZ. Credit:Fairfax Media The bronze monument has faced opposition and vandalism since its unveiling in 1969 but attacks in 2016, which left the British explorer red-faced or in a white bikini, restarted debate about its place in the region's history. While the statue overlooks the beach at which Cook took his first steps on New Zealand soil in 1769, it's also on an ancestral mountain of the area's Ngati Oneone tribe. PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sport, Honourable Wycliffe Smith signed the Memorandum of Understanding with Professor Flora Goudappel of the University of Curacao for the commencement of Law classes at the University of St. Martin on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at the Government Building. This was made possible by the National Ordinance signed by the Finance Minister Perry Geerlings last Friday guaranteeing its funding. The Government of Sint Maarten agreed with the proposal to have persons interested in the legal profession be trained locally via the University of St. Martin. The partnership now forged with the University of Curacao makes it possible for classes to begin this week. Professor Goudappel will be meeting with the students who registered for the program at USM on Wednesday, October 3. Some classes will be streamed live and some classes will be pre-recorded and sent from Curacao to students here on Sint Maarten. In some cases, the professors will travel to Sint Maarten to conduct classes in person and work with our local students on specific assignments. On hand to witness the signing of this long-awaited agreement were Minister Perry Geerlings, representatives of the ministry of Education Culture Youth and Sport, representatives of the Board and Management of the University of St. Martin as well as community stakeholders who advocated for the availability of a local Law Program for this country. The Law program will last four to five years at the cost of US $3,000 per year for each student. The commencement of this Law program through the University of St. Martin meets a target under the Governing Program 2018-2022 in which USM becomes the nucleus for national and international development. PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday 2, October 2018, Mr. Piet Hein Donner, Vice-President Council of State met with the Council of Ministers on his farewell visit to Sint Maarten along with Mr. Rob Visser, Secretary of the Council of State, Mr. Ron van der Veer, Advisor to the Council of State, and Mrs. Maria van der Sluijs-Plantz, Sint Maartens representative Member of the Council of State. The Council of Ministers presented a token of appreciation to Mr. Donner to thank him for his contribution to the Kingdom during his years of servitude. PHILIPSBURG:---The St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation is currently collecting donations for Indonesia, which was devastated by a major 7.5 magnitude earthquake and tsunami on Friday, 28 September 2018. Tzu Chi international has already sprung into action to help survivors of the major natural disaster, which has claimed the lives of 1,347 persons and counting. Tzu Chi is hoping that the community of St. Maarten, which was affected by its own major disaster when hurricane Irma struck the island just over a year ago, will come together to support Indonesia, which is now facing its own disaster. We need civic groups to join and give their power of love to help Indonesia, Tzu Chi St. Maarten said in echoing the wishes of Tzu Chi International. We need to get ready with our power of love and pay attention to this disaster. Tzu Chi St. Maarten has already prepared collection bottles to collect donations starting at Cake House supermarket on the L.B. Scott Road today Wednesday 3, October 2018. Please join us to pool love together for Indonesia, Tzu Chi St. Maarten Commissioner Sandra Cheung urged the community. Cheung, whose supermarket Cake House along with Tzu Chi, has been helping the community of St. Maarten/St. Martin with relief since hurricane Irma struck, is hopeful that St. Maarten can respond in kind to help another nation in its own recovery efforts. Cheung said whomever wishes to donate can also do so via Tzu Chis relief account at Windward Islands Bank account #21932201. The 7.5-magnitude quake struck just off the central island of Sulawesi, setting off a tsunami that engulfed the coastal city of Palu. Aid supplies are beginning to arrive in the city, where survivors have no access to running water or electricity. The number of people known to have died in Friday's earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia continued to rise. The death toll jumped on Tuesday from a previously confirmed figure of 844. In a separate incident, a volcano began erupting on the same island, Sulawesi, on Wednesday. Mount Soputan is about 1,000km (600 miles) away from Palu, and it was not immediately seen as a threat to the aid operation. Photo: Contributed Castanet is giving some insight into what the four candidates for the Kelowna mayor's chair think about several pertinent issues. We posed the same seven questions to each of the candidates, and will publish the answers, one at a time through next Thursday. The order in which the answers are published will change each day for fairness. Question #2 - Are you happy with the pace/nature of development in Kelowna? Why? Tom Dyas - The fact that Kelowna attracts all forms of investment is the envy of many B.C. municipalities. Notwithstanding this, Kelowna faces housing costs for both ownership and rentals of unprecedented high levels, largely due to market demand. We need to address the shortage of rental accommodations, and the downtown densification will address much of that need over the next few years. That said, the cost of construction and $700 to $750 per square foot sale prices do not make much of this new development attainable for young working people. I believe we need to have planned, managed, sustainable growth as our infrastructure has not kept up with the pace of growth downtown and we are dealing with issues from lack of parking to congested roadways to unusable parks due to crime. There is much work to be done in order to find solutions for more attainable housing for both families and the younger population, both in rental and ownership accommodation. Efforts to date to allow for secondary suites in most single-family neighborhoods and encouraging micro suites have had limited results. I believe that collaboration and dialogue with industry professionals, such as Canadian Home Builders, Urban Development Institute, Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board and Resident Associations is necessary in order to collectively arrive at acceptable alternatives. Bobby Kennedy - Kelowna's growth rate is at a much larger number than the national average. This type of statistic is a bit of a catch 22. On one hand we are slated for great potential as a growing city, but on the other hand we are not up to date on our infrastructure to accommodate such rapid growth. In order to accommodate an influx of people we have chosen to go the route of high density urban development. While this is a good strategy for providing an increase of living spaces in our downtown area, it is a terrible strategy when done at a rapid pace that far exceeds our road infrastructure, and that is part of the reason we are experiencing such a high volume of traffic in our inner city core. I am pro development so please don't get that twisted but I am more pro SMART and SUSTAINABLE development and feel we have overseen some crucial steps in proper planning, and for these reasons our citizens are paying the price time wise as well as at the pump for their daily commute. I believe that maximizing living units to land ratio is without a doubt the direction we need continue heading but I would like to see this development be thought of as more than just high rises that are targeted in one specific area. I feel that in our never ending search for ways to produce affordable housing that micro housing communities are where we should be focusing. If you have not heard of this global development trend then please research further into the subject and educate yourself. These types of minimal footprint homes are often referred to as shipping container homes. Do not let the name fool you. This type of development is not just one of the cheapest and most carbon efficient ways of producing homes, it is one of the most visually appealing. There are some amazing things you can do with shipping container homes and these little beauties are a true architectural wonder. Bob Schewe - NO. There is a rush by the current mayor and council to make Kelowna a big city --with all the associated big costs and big city problems. Future developments have to be smarter and good for all our existing property owners, businesses and residents, especially in the affected area. Examples are: the relocation of the tourist bureau off highway 97 to the waterfront at the end of Queensway. Another is the Capri-Landmark-Sutherland Avenue re-alignment/expansion proposal that is a disaster for some of the area existing property owners, businesses and residents. And, the city taxpayers were to be on the hook for approximately $35 million for the project. Colin Basran - We are one of the fastest growing cities in Canada, which produces both challenges and opportunities. Positively, new residents contribute to the economic and cultural vibrancy of our community. However, over the next 20 years, Kelownas population will inevitably increase by over 40,000 people. With a smart, balanced approach, we can benefit tremendously from this transition without harming our precious natural environment! The burden of uncontrolled sprawl will fall on everyone's shoulders in our community. Its simple, sprawl = 8 times more in city costs + higher congestion and pollution + reduced green spaces/agricultural land. Evidence shows that growth in our town centres is key to minimizing those costs. Thats why under my leadership, 65% of new homes being built in Kelowna are in multi-family developments, creating a more affordable, efficient use of land. As your mayor, I will continue to advocate for smarter, more accessible housing options for all, without sacrificing our quality of life. PHILIPSBURG:--- A total of 600 families in French Quarter received one or more bags of Love Rice from the St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation, during its second rice distribution effort to persons in that district since hurricane Irma. The rice distribution, which was held on 23 September 2018, was possible thanks to the donation of the fifth container of rice to St. Maarten from Tzu Chis headquarters in Taiwan and the third container since hurricane Irma. The distribution was from the latest container of rice, which arrived on the island on 12 September 2018. On August 5, Tzu Chi also came to the aid of French Quarter residents when 500 bags of rice were distributed in the area. Each bag of rice contains 10kg (22 pounds) of rice. Tzu Chi volunteers lovingly spent their day coordinating the event and making sure that the rice distribution, which was held on the premises of the Cultural Center, went smoothly. In an effort to accommodate recipients from all walks of life, volunteers set up three donation stations: one for French-speaking recipients; one for English speaking recipients and one for Spanish speaking recipients. Each station was manned by volunteers who spoke the language of recipients. The donation of the rice was done under the theme: environmental protection -love the world, a position that Tzu Chi hopes recipients will follow to protect our precious environment. During the ceremony, attendees were also given a chance to help Tzu Chi continue its benevolent work in the community by making donations via the foundations Bamboo Bank (collection boxes). A total of US $99.33 was donated to the foundation during this drive. Recipients were initially given one bag of rice per family and based on the needs of each family, the second bag of rice was also given to some recipients. Elderly persons and persons with babies received assistance during the distribution. Recipients were also treated to snacks and drinks. A total of 45 Tzu Chi volunteers participated in the event, 15 regular volunteers and 30 new enthusiastic ones. Rice from this latest container received in September was also distributed by volunteers to the homes of 400 residents in Dutch St. Maarten, who were in need as well as to various organizations including 30 days care and pre-schools in Dutch St. Maarten. A total of 1,200 bags of rice were also distributed to persons in the district of Sandy Ground in French St. Martin; 400 to the English de due Caller de la Benediction inc; 100 to Iglesia La Bonne Samaritaine Church; 60 to Ruel Hotel #44 and 40 to individual families. Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung said she was grateful to all volunteers who sacrificed their time to participate in the exercise and all recipients for accepting the donation of Love Rice from the foundation. Following the death of Antwon Rose, Jr. earlier this year, and other incidents around the state and nation, state legislators began work on legislation regarding police management and community relations. Today, senators Jay Costa, Wayne Fontana, Jim Brewster, Art Haywood and representatives Jake Wheatley, Ed Gainey and Austin Davis unveiled that work. Recent events have shown that we are at a crossroads in how we manage and interact with our police officers, said Senator Costa. We need to do more to improve the training, quality and support of officers. But our improvements need to extend beyond police departments and into communities. I believe the package of bills we are working on can do that. The legislation, now seeking cosponsors, focuses on three categories: 1. Police Administration & Management Municipal police officer education and training commission improvements Improved police pay Regional Policing Incentive Program and study 2. Community Relations Professional Oversight and Policy Development Board Change the standard for police using deadly force Police diversity recruitment Professional Oversight and Policy Development Board Civilian Review Board 3. Event Response Police Shooting Response Team Special prosecutor We need to find ways to improve the level of trust and cooperation between citizens and police officers on a broad range of matters such as the use of force, diversity education, oversight and community relations, said Senator Fontana. This package of reform legislation is a step in the right direction in addressing these issues. Exploring new ways to improve police services is extremely important, Senator Brewster said. Allowing municipalities to pursue voluntary and consensual police mergers -- provided there are incentives to smooth the transition while ensuring citizen safety is not compromised-- is a viable approach to addressing local police issues. These efforts, combined with other measures I have offered such as increasing pay for part-time police and changing the board composition of the Municipal Police Officers Education and Training Commission to better reflect local policing, are important improvements that need to be acted upon. Our criminal system is meant to be impartial and for prosecutors to discharge their duties free of personal or professional conflicts. However, in certain circumstances, there is the appearance of conflict that can lead the public to believe that justice is not being dispensed fairly, said Senator Haywood. My legislation, SB400, co-sponsored by Senators Leach, Costa, and Hughes would take the review the deadly force incident by police officers out of the hands of the attorney general and into the hands of a special prosecutor. This bill is not designed to punish law enforcement but to provide a neutral party to review the case when death has been caused by an officer. We are all deeply saddened and disturbed by the tragic and avoidable shooting of a young man, Antwon Rose Jr; no family should have to endure this type of loss. Two different departments already terminated this officer and there was documented evidence he was unfit to serve, said Senator Street. This is why I plan to sponsor legislation that would mandate intelligence and information sharing among departments in the hiring of officers. While this is a reality in many jurisdictions , we must ensure that this standard is maintained across The commonwealth. every family should receive equal protection and every officer should know that the man or woman next to them is qualified to serve. Since the tragic shooting death of Antwon Rose in June, my colleagues and I have worked tirelessly to address and provide solutions to police shootings and violence, said Rep. Wheatley. Our initiatives center on a three-prong approach including an overhaul of police management, more community inclusion and a better response to police shootings. Im asking other lawmakers to join us in support of our legislation. This is not to point the finger at or place blame on anyone, but rather to start an honest conversation about how we improve police community relations, said Rep. Gainey. We know that we have many great police officers; we also know that we have some bad actors within the organization, just as we do in all other professions. We need to work together and move forward together. I cant think of many other relationships as important to the unity and safety of our community than the one between police and citizens, Rep. Davis said. We have seen the devastating consequences when there is a breakdown in that relationship. Im hopeful that the work Ive been doing with my colleagues to draft legislation on police management and community relations will be a crucial step in the right direction. We need to ensure that police can continue in their mission to protect and serve, while citizens can feel confident in their ability to trust and support police actions. The time has long since passed that we modernize policing and criminal justice in Pennsylvania, said Rep. Miller. By underfunding drug treatment, mental health, and our schools we have dumped a ridiculous amount of societal problems on their desks while giving them a woefully outdated playbook. We must do better, and working with law enforcement is key to raising standards across the board. We must ensure professionalism and accountability while eliminating the historically discriminatory impact of our criminal justice system on communities of color and on people of limited economic means. Photo: Contributed Put your best foot forward for a good cause on Oct. 20. Shoe Bank Canada's second annual charity art gala and auction, My Canvas Has Laces, will help the Kelowna-based agency to distribute more shoes to people who need help getting a step ahead in life. Its about reducing the negative impact of poverty on low-income mothers and their families. said Shannon Christensen, executive director of Mamas for Mamas, which receives shoes from Shoe Bank. The shoes we receive ... help enhance a mama's self-esteem, allow them to provide quality footwear for their kids and help them reduce barriers to employment. A common misconception about the Shoe Bank is that we only provide footwear to those experiencing homelessness, said spokesperson Sue Ross, The fact is, we respond to any situation where we can help reduce the burden of the monthly family budget. Shoe Bank was started by community activist Jim Belshaw with a mission to ensure that no Canadian should want for a decent pair of shoes. The charity collects shoes from individuals and footwear companies to distribute to people in need. To date, it has distributed more than 50,000 pairs. The My Canvas Has Laces gala will be held at the Kelowna Innovation Centre. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased here. Artists from across Canada will use a white pair of shoes as their canvas, and the final works of art will then be auctioned, with proceeds going to support Shoe Bank Canadas expansion efforts. Georgetown, SC (29440) Today A mainly sunny sky. High near 65F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Clear skies. Low near 40F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Apollo 17 took the 11th and 12th people to the surface of the moon and marked the end of the Apollo program. By the time the mission launched, on Dec. 7, 1972, public interest in space exploration had declined and the government had shifted focus to the Vietnam War. These and many other factors brought the program to a close, even though three more flights were originally planned. Apollo 17 was the first mission to include a scientist in its crew. Geologist Harrison "Jack" Schmitt was one of the first six scientist-astronauts selected in 1965 amid immense pressure to do so from the National Academy of Sciences, which was worried that only test pilots would get the opportunity to walk on the moon. When it came time to select the final crew, Schmitt was chosen over Joe Engle, who was a backup pilot for Apollo 14 and would have been next in the rotation to fly under ordinary conditions. The usual procedure was for an astronaut to back up a mission and then fly as prime astronaut on the third mission after his backup. Crewmates Ron Evans and Eugene Cernan were upset for Engle. However, they were pleased at the capabilities Schmitt, a geologic trainer for other moon-bound astronauts, showed on the job. [Apollo 17: NASA's Last Apollo Moon Landing Mission in Pictures] Evans, the command module pilot, was on his first mission to space. He was on combat duty in Vietnam in April 1966 when he found out he was selected as an astronaut. Evans had not only flown in combat, but was also a combat pilot instructor. Mission Cmdr. Cernan, a former U.S. Navy pilot, had faced many obstacles in space. On his first flight, Gemini 9 in 1966, he did a spacewalk that exhausted him because there weren't enough handholds to perform his work in microgravity. On his second flight, Apollo 10in 1969, the lunar module briefly spun unpredictably as Cernan and crewmate Tom Stafford did a practice descent to the surface. He was a seasoned pilot and felt ready to command his crew on the most challenging Apollo mission yet. Assessing and accessing the landing site With the later Apollo missions so focused on science, and with a geologist on board for Apollo 17, much consideration went into choosing the lunar valley called Taurus-Littrow as Apollo 17's destination. The geologic variety of that valley tilted the decision to the location. Points of interest to scientists in Taurus-Littrow included Shorty Crater believed to hold evidence of past volcanic vents and several large boulders spotted in photographs taken by the Apollo 15 crew. A minor technical error, due to a tank not being pressurized when expected, held up launch by almost 3 hours. But once the error was fixed, the crew lifted off on Dec. 7, 1972. Cernan and Schmitt landed on the surface on lunar module Challenger three days later without major incident, while Evans stayed in the command module, America. Cernan's and Schmitt's first major challenge came when Cernan accidentally broke a wheel fender on their lunar rover. After that, abrasive moon dust showered the astronauts as they drove around the surface. Cernan made a partial repair with some duct tape, joking he would like a "mending award." The next day, he and Schmitt taped some maps in place of the fender to better fix the problem. The astronauts also deployed several scientific instruments, most notably a traverse gravimeter. The astronauts carried the instrument on the rover and took it out at several sites to measure the relative gravity, which gave scientists an idea about the lunar substructure. In lunar orbit, Evans made observations of the surface and kept mission control entertained by joking about how much he stank because he had not taken a shower in several days. Orange soil and a memorable ending As Cernan and Schmitt worked near the rim of Shorty Crater on the second day, Schmitt exclaimed that he could see orange soil. In Cernan's autobiography, he said he feared Schmitt "has been up here too long and has overdosed on rocks." But when Cernan clambered over to take a look, he, saw the orange soil, too. Later examination of samples of that soil taken back to Earth showed that the rocks were tiny spheres of colored glass. These probably came from a volcanic vent. After one more day racing the clock to do all the science they could, the lunar crew packed their gear and prepared to climb into Challenger for the last time. Alone on the surface, Cernan gave a short speech, concluding, "I'd just like to record that America's challenge of today has forged man's destiny of tomorrow. ... Godspeed, the crew of Apollo 17." Evans got a chance to do a quick spacewalk on the way back to Earth, retrieving some film canisters mounted outside America. The crew splashed down on Dec. 19 in the South Pacific Ocean. Apollo 17's astronauts spent a record 22 hours performing extravehicular activities on the moon. The astronauts drove about 21 miles (34 kilometers) in the lunar rover and brought back 108 kilograms (238 lbs.) of lunar rocks. Apollo 17 legacy The 50th anniversary of Apollo 17 is in December of 2022. The command module America is located at Space Center Houston near the NASA Johnson Space Center, while the upper stage of lunar module Challenger impacted the moon as planned. While this crew was the last one so far to have visited the moon, NASA plans more lunar trips in the coming decade. The administration of President Donald Trump has directed the agency to send people to the moon before going to Mars. First, NASA will test out its new moon spacecraft, Orion, on a trip around the moon without astronauts. The agency is also designing a moon-orbiting space station. While all of the people who visited the moon so far were NASA astronauts, other entities could participate in the coming decades as well. One initiative in 2018, from private spaceflight company SpaceX, would send Japanese entrepreneur Yusaku Maezawa around the moon with a group of artists. SpaceX says it will do this in 2023, using the company's Big Falcon Rocket to transport the space tourists there and back. Correction: This article was updated on March 18, 2019 to include that Apollo 17 took the 11th and 12th people to the moon; not 12 people. In aviation and in space, a drone refers to an unpiloted aircraft or spacecraft. Another term for it is an "unmanned aerial vehicle," or UAV. On Earth, drones are often used for military purposes because they don't put a pilot's life at risk in combat zones. In addition, drones don't require rest, enabling them to fly as long as there is fuel in the craft and there are no mechanical difficulties. Technically speaking, spaceborne drones could include cargo spacecraft, satellites and machines that leave Earth, although they aren't usually referred to as such. Perhaps the best example of a drone in space is the U.S. military's mysterious X-37B spacecraft, which has made multiple flights into orbit for hundreds of days at a time. Its mission is highly classified, leading to speculation about what it is doing. Military drones Drones have been around for almost as long as airplanes have been used in warfare (1911), and that's not even including bomb-filled balloons that were first used by Austria in the mid-1800s. [Rise of the Drones: Photos of Unmanned Aircraft] The U.S. Navy developed limited "air torpedoes" during World War I, but set aside the concept until World War II. At that time the Navy began a program called Operation Anvil, according to The Nation. Remote-controlled B-24 bombers were used to deliver explosives to German bunkers, but the program was a "disaster," according to the article. Many planes crashed or exploded prematurely. For decades afterward, the United States focused on using rockets while also working on drone development. The first big demonstration of drones came during the 1991 Gulf War, when the United States deployed UAVs. The drone market was worth about $20 billion in 2018, according to a global forecast published in researchandmarkets.com. While military applications remain possible, the consumer market has exploded with drone options in recent years, allowing ordinary people to fly these small planes for all sorts of purposes photography, recreation and in some cases, surveillance. Drones can also be used for applications such as distributing fertilizers to farmers' fields or keeping an eye on remote pipelines. Drones for other applications In the U.S., the Federal Aviation Administration has been cautious about allowing unpiloted vehicles to zip around the skies. There are numerous safety concerns they could crash into buildings, interfere with airspace or cause other problems. In February 2015, however, the FAA moved to allow limited use of drones. Commercial use of drones in the United States was permitted as of 2016. As of 2018, the drone regulations advise that operators can fly only during daylight or twilight, with altitude and speed restrictions. Also, drones must be kept in the line of sight of an operator. Certain companies are considering sending drones to deliver goods, which could reduce the cost of using drivers for door-to-door service. Amazon is advertising a future service called "Prime Air," which is intended to send deliveries to customers in 30 minutes or less. The company has written a letter of application to the FAA to begin this service. Amazon performed its first drone deliveries in Britain in December 2016. Government agencies occasionally use drones for safety reasons, such as monitoring storms and hurricanes without putting pilots at risk. One example was the Hurricane and Severe Storm Sentinel (HS3), which was a five-year test program using unmanned surveillance aircraft called Global Hawks. It was a collaboration among NASA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Northrop Grumman, an aerospace and defense company based in Virginia. Other reported applications of drones have been in search-and-rescue operations and in-air 3D mapping of local terrain, such as forests or roads. Artist's illustration of the U.S. Air Force's robotic X-37B space plane orbiting Earth. (Image credit: Boeing) Drones in space Perhaps the closest thing to a UAV in space is the X-37B, which looks like a miniature version of NASA's now-retired space shuttle. The unpiloted spacecraft completed four clandestine space missions. Most of X-37B's work is highly classified, making it difficult to speculate about the purpose of its missions. However, the Air Force has released some information about the fourth mission. In an email to Space.com in May 2015, Air Force spokesperson Capt. Chris Hoyler said the X-37B would have an experimental propulsion system and would help engineers investigate how well various materials perform in space. "We are excited about our fourth X-37B mission," Randy Walden, director of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office, said in a statement in May 2015. "With the demonstrated success of the first three missions, we're able to shift our focus from initial checkouts of the vehicle to testing of experimental payloads. In 2018, NASA announced it would send a drone (a small helicopter) to Mars along with the Mars 2020 rover mission. The drone will be tested for about 30 days on Mars. The drone will have to fly autonomously because radio signals from Earth take several minutes to arrive on Mars, which precludes live remote piloting from Earth. [Watch: NASA's Tiny Helicopter Drone for Mars] Although not technically classified as drones (since they operate beyond Earth's atmosphere), it could be argued that several of the spacecraft that visit the International Space Station are unmanned aerial vehicles as they carry only cargo and no pilot. There are several of these vehicles, including Russia's Progress spacecraft, the (now-retired) European Space Agency Automated Transfer Vehicles, SpaceX's Dragon and Northrup Grumman's Cygnus. From time to time, a space agency will test vehicles in space before putting people on it, which is what happened with the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs. (The space shuttle was never tested without pilots on board.) In 2014, NASA sent its Orion spacecraft high into Earth-orbit (3,600 miles or 5,800 km) in an unpiloted test. And in 2019 or 2020, the agency is planning a second test in in which the Orion spacecraft will be sent around the moon. Mackenzie Thompson manages marketing and mission fulfillment initiatives with the Disque Foundation and the Save a Life Initiative, which help communities learn life-saving techniques like CPR a valuable skill to have both on Earth and in space. Thompson contributed this article to Space.com's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights. All the talk about space tourism seems to be about when rather than why. Companies like Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic have announced plans to launch tourists into suborbital space within the next year, and SpaceX recently revealed its plans to send up to eight artists on a trip around the moon. As is often the case with private companies' ambitious plans to launch tourists into space, the timelines for these missions often change. While the time has not yet come for private citizens to start booking tickets for out-of-this-world adventures, now is the right time to start thinking about the comfort and safety of the tourists that will soon start blasting off into space. This raises the question: Will there be flight attendants in space? After all, why would someone board a rocket ship or take a high-altitude balloon ride without the assurance of a flight attendant, when that person might never board a plane that had a pilot but no crew? [Now Boarding: The Top 10 Private Spaceships] Flight attendants are professionals whose expertise is essential to in-flight safety. Without their help, passengers could jeopardize their health and risk their lives by flying the not-so-friendly skies. For example, passengers would not necessarily know where to find or how to use safety equipment like oxygen masks and flotation devices in case of an emergency. With the guidance of a well-trained spaceflight attendant, passengers can put themselves at ease and enjoy their flights, taking in the incredible views of Earth from space without having to worry too much about their own safety and comfort.. Excellent flight crews make both spaceflight and ordinary airplane flights possible both before and after a spacecraft or an airplane leaves the ground. For example, the Delta Air Lines Flight Attendant Training Center has a 1 percent acceptance rate for new flight attendants. In six weeks, students learn federal aviation regulations, how to defend themselves and others against unruly passengers and hijackers, how to evacuate on water and land, how to handle medical emergencies, and how to use all the equipment at their disposal to assist passengers during a flight. They also learn how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) a crucial life-saving technique that my organization, the Disque Foundation, teaches to people around the world. Debris from Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo is seen on the Mojave Desert floor after a tragic crash during a test flight on Oct. 31, 2014. One pilot was killed and another injured during the crash. (Image credit: AP Online Video / powered by Newslook) Now, look at the above image of Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo, a spacecraft built for space tourism that crashed in the Mojave Desert during a test flight in 2014. I offer the photo not as criticism but as a cautionary tale about the dangers of attempting to escape Earth's atmosphere, never mind achieving and maintaining the escape velocity necessary to reach suborbital space. Look, also, at the video mock-up below of Blue Origin's New Shepard space capsule. It looks spacious (pun intended) compared with the Apollo 11 Lunar Module, but it is far from spacious. When room is so scarce, and fuel is so precious, there is little or no room for additional weight. What, then, will be the role of flight attendants in this new era of transportation and space exploration? Will there be room enough for them to assume their role as vital workers? Where, for that matter, is the school that will teach this elite corps of astronaut flight attendants? Will NASA and the FAA start or subsidize this academy? Will spaceflight attendants go through the same kind of training as NASA's astronauts? And will there be enough trained flight attendants to meet the demands of pilots and passengers once the space tourism industry finally takes flight? Before civilians can start booking spaceflights, we should confirm the availability of flight attendants and make sure there's room for them aboard the spacecraft to bring additional safety and security to flights that are more treacherous than we may choose to believe. Before we put our lives on the line, we should at least make sure there are men and women who will join us, not for their happiness but our own. We need flight attendants, now more than ever. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com. The German-French Mobile Asteroid Surface Scout (MASCOT) lander captured this photo of asteroid Ryugu during landing operations on Oct. 3, 2018. The lander's shadow is visible at upper right. A small European probe about the size of a shoebox successfully landed on the asteroid Ryugu overnight last night, and its first photo is a doozy: a shadow "selfie" showing the space rock just before the landing. The photo, released today (Oct. 3), was captured by the Mobile Asteroid Surface Scout, or MASCOT, which landed on Ryugu after being released from its Japanese mothership, Hayabusa2, from a height of just 167 feet (51 meters). It took 20 minutes for the lander to reach the surface of Ryugu, with MASCOT's first photo revealing a rocky, pitted terrain and even the probe's boxy shadow in the image's upper right corner. Asteroid Ryugu was about 186 million miles (300 million kilometers) from Earth at the time, said officials with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), which built MASCOT. "The camera worked perfectly," said Ralf Jaumann, a DLR planetary scientist, in a statement. "The team's first images of the camera are therefore safe." [The Greatest Asteroid Encounters of All Time!] Jaumann is the scientific director for MASCOT's camera "MASCAM," which snapped 20 photos of Ryugu during the probe's short descent to the asteroid's surface. MASCOT's battery should last about 16 hours after the landing, DLR officials have said. The MASCAM camera isn't the only instrument aboard MASCOT. The 22-lb. (10 kilograms) lander carries four instruments in all: MASCAM, a radiometer also built by DLR, a magnetometer built by the Technical University of Braunschweig and an infrared spectrometer from the French space agency, CNES. The lander can hop using a swinging arm inside its body. MASCOT's magnetometer is already beaming home data on the conditions near Ryugu. "The measurements show the relatively weak field of the solar wind and the very strong magnetic disturbances caused by the spacecraft," Karl-Heinz Glameier of the Technical University of Braunschweig said in the same DLR statement. "At the moment of the separation, we expected a clear decrease of the interference field and we were able to recognise this clearly." Japan's Hayabusa2 spacecraft successfully dropped the MASCOT lander on the asteroid Ryugu on Oct. 3, 2018 (Japan Standard Time). Left: Illustration of the MASCOT lander separating from the Hayabusa2 mothership. Right: Illustration of MASCOT landing on the surface of the asteroid Ryugu. (Image credit: JAXA) MASCOT is a joint project by DLR and CNES and is the third lander to touch down on asteroid Ryugu in recent weeks. It follows on the heels of two small, hopping Japanese rovers, called MINERVA-II1A and MINERVA-II1B, which touched down on Ryugu in late September. Another MINERVA lander and an impactor probe will be released in 2019, according to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, which is overseeing the Hayabusa2 mission. "With MASCOT, we have the unique opportunity to study the solar system's most primordial material directly on an asteroid," Jaumann said. In addition to deploying the landers, JAXA's $150 million Hayabusa2 spacecraft is designed to study asteroid Ryugu in unprecedented detail. The spacecraft will also collect samples of the asteroid and return them to Earth in December of 2020. JAXA launched the Hayabusa2 mission in 2014. Later this year, the U.S. spacecraft OSIRIS-Rex is scheduled to make its own rendezvous with the near-Earth asteroid Bennu for NASA. That spacecraft is due to arrive at Bennu on Dec. 31 and collect samples to be returned to Earth in 2023. Email Tariq Malik at tmalik@space.com or follow him @tariqjmalik. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com. This isn't your grandfather's lunar lander. Today (Oct. 3), aerospace giant Lockheed Martin revealed its concept for a reusable, single-stage spaceship capable of ferrying four astronauts between lunar orbit and the surface of the moon. For comparison, the expendable lunar lander that NASA used during the Apollo program carried two people and weighed 4.7 tons (4.3 metric tons) without propellant. Lockheed's craft would weigh 24 tons (22 metric tons) dry and tip the scales at 68 tons (62 metric tons) when fully fueled. [Lunar Legacy: 45 Apollo Moon Mission Photos] The Lockheed lander would use as its home base the Lunar Orbital Platform-Gateway, a small space station that NASA aims to start building near the moon in 2022. An artist's illustration of Lockheed Martin's crewed lunar lander, which is designed to let astronauts spend two weeks at a time on the moon's surface. (Image credit: Lockheed Martin) The lander would depart from the Gateway, taking astronauts and up to 1.1 tons (1 metric tons) of cargo down to the lunar surface, according to a newly published Lockheed white paper. The craft (and crew) could stay on the surface for up to two weeks, then launch back to the Gateway without the need to refuel. (The lander would be refueled between missions eventually, perhaps, with propellant derived from water ice extracted from the moon or asteroids.) The lander design leverages many technologies from the Orion capsule, which Lockheed is building for NASA. Orion and the Space Launch System (SLS) megarocket, which is also in development, will help astronauts explore deep-space destinations, such as the moon and Mars, NASA officials have said. "There's a lot of development that we've accomplished on Orion, so that helps," Tim Cichan, space exploration architect at Lockheed Martin Space, told Space.com. (Cichan presented the lunar-lander concept today at the International Astronautical Congress in Bremen, Germany.) Orion already has one flight under its belt, an uncrewed test mission to Earth orbit in December 2014. NASA intends to fly the capsule again in 2020, on an uncrewed flight called Exploration Mission 1 that will also serve as the SLS' debut. (The 2014 Orion flight employed a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket.) On EM-1, Orion will loop around the moon and spend about three weeks in space. The first crewed Orion-SLS flight, Exploration Mission 2, is currently targeted for 2023. An artist's illustration of Lockheed Martin's proposed moon lander attached to the Lunar Orbital Platform-Gateway, a small space station that NASA aims to start building in lunar orbit in 2022. (Image credit: Lockheed Martin) Lockheed's proposed lander could be up and running by the late 2020s, in keeping with the timeline NASA has targeted for getting boots back on the moon, said Rob Chambers, Lockheed Martin Space's director of human spaceflight strategy and business development. The lander would also launch atop the SLS, at least for the foreseeable future, he told Space.com. The Lockheed concept vehicle is quite a bit bigger than the crewed lunar lander that NASA seems to be envisioning. In March, for example, the space agency asked industry to contribute ideas that would aid in the development of a lander capable of carrying between 0.55 tons and 6.6 tons (0.5 to 6 metric tons) to the lunar surface. Artist's illustration of Lockheed Martin's proposed lunar lander on the surface of the moon. The lander could carry four people and up to 1 ton of cargo to the surface from lunar orbit. (Image credit: Lockheed Martin) But there's a good reason for the extra heft: Lockheed sees the moon lander as a precursor for a Red Planet lander, which is a key part of the company's proposed "Mars Base Camp" exploration architecture. That base camp is a space station in Mars orbit that would serve as an exploration hub as well as a jumping-off point for crewed sorties to the surface (as the Gateway would do at the moon) and for trips to the Red Planet's two small moons, Phobos and Deimos. Lockheed has long envisioned testing the Mars Base Camp lander at the moon, Chambers said. But the company's Red Planet plans aren't dependent on NASA selecting the vehicle for Gateway operations. "A precursor lander would be very beneficial but not absolutely required," Cichan said. Mike Wall's book about the search for alien life, "Out There," will be published on Nov. 13. Follow him on Twitter @michaeldwall and Google+. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook or Google+. Originally published on Space.com. What happens to things when they reenter Earth's atmosphere too fast or without proper protection? They burn up. Maybe even explode, like the plane that flew Flight 828 did last week. Manifest is pacing itself wisely, by not leaning into the possible supernatural or natural forces too quickly, but it's faltering in terms of its characters. The show may plan to settle into a "case of the week" routine, where Ben and Michaela help a different passenger each time. This approach brings pros and cons. On the positive side, it will keep the show from getting too serialized and bogged down in the bigger mystery. However, it could also doom the show to never escaping from the immediate Stone family and friends circle. A man named Radd (Curtiss Cook) asks for Ben's help, but Ben initially brushes him off, too overwhelmed with other things. Mysterious violin music brings Ben back to the man later. (Definitely reminded me of An American Tail for a second there when Fievel wanders the streets of New York, listening for his Papa's music). Radd is a violinist who was in Jamaica for one day to play with the Philharmonic. He left his 13 year old son behind with a neighbor. Now his son Adio (Curtiss Cook Jr!) is grown up and in jail, facing trial for robbing a jewelry store he worked at. His father insists he must be innocent, and Ben gets Michael's help to visit Adio at Rikers. Eventually another "divine coincidence" will lead Ben to the real culprit, setting Adio free. I wonder if it's coincidence that this episode and the pilot focused on someone being set free.It is a pity that there's no hint that Adio and Radd will be a bigger part of the show, because their dilemma was much more compelling than almost everyone else's right now. Michaela's focus in this episode was dealing with Jared moving on with her best friend Lourdes. The baking soda isn't mixing with the vinegar in terms of Jared and Michaela's connection, so instead we're treated to solid awkwardness when they share the screen. It's admirable that Michaela lies to Lourdes that she was going to break up with Jared anyway. But really what else would she say? This story angle has been executed with considerable more finesse, with much more agony, on other shows.Michaela does make a big discovery though. She overhears Grace talking to her boo. (Secret Phone Conversation 101: don't do it with your back to the door). Again Michaela handles this the only way she can: by not mentioning it to Ben. Cal meanwhile is the one character who seems to actually be struggling with everything that has happened to them. His distress levels go up and up, as it dawns on him that everything in his life has been upended. His toothbrush is gone, his Lego sets are gone, a crazy lady grabs him in the street and cries out "He is risen!" He draws a family portrait but adds a faceless figure in the background. Eventually Olive can't stand this anymore, and she reveals to Ben that she kept Cal's things when Grace finally set them out to be donated. It's this trip to a storage unit that results in Ben realizing that Grace had somebody else. At first he's startled, asking Olive about it sharply. She immediately bursts into tears, probably the first reaction that feels genuine and natural on this show (Kudos to Luna Blaise), and he does the right thing and hugs his daughter and tells her everything is going to be okay. It's a real moment. Ben, for all his insistence on uncovering facts, seems to want to believe the warmest, fuzziest explanations. He doesn't even seem to consider that Grace might still have this person in her life. He doesn't want any details. Except when it comes to what happened to the plane.The central mystery is still not a strong part of the story. The episode quickly follows up on the pilot, as all 20 passengers who watched the plane blow up are questioned by the government suits. No one admits to hearing any voices or anything else strange, except one whispered question from the pilot who asks Michaela and Ben if they have heard voices. They play it cool. Later, a room full of more important government suits debates the incident. Was it a wormhole? Was it a secret weapons test? One man asks "How do we know the same people came back?" These questions would be interesting, if the show even remotely hinted that any of them could be true. One stuffy old white dude wants to lock all the passengers up, but it's too late to doWe are left with what's supposed to be a tantalizing tidbit. The passenger who cried during the initial questioning in the pilot goes against the government's instructions and appears on numerous news programs. She spouts theories and speculation, settling in later in the evening to watch herself on TV. But we saw earlier that someone was following her, or rather we only saw their SHADOW (are you not intrigued???). In any case, a gunshot rings out, and we only see her blood splatter the TV screen, still playing the footage of herself talking. Supernatural shadows probably don't use guns, but I think this moment is supposed to be gasp worthy. Look, kids, that lady is dead, so the passengers are in danger! I have to say that for a show with the premise this one has, there is an immense lack of mysterious atmosphere. However, there's also a possibly more lethal absence of meaningful interpersonal drama. Where's the conflict, the tension, the unexpected friendships that might form from this bizarre situation.....the woes of being five years behind the world!? This show right now is all gravy, with no meat and potatoes.Ben ran right past a Times Square advertisement for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which again made me wish that the show would do more to show the culture shock the passengers would be experiencing.Everyone on this show is utterly too chill.Also, Michaela is a detective now, because the promoted her when they thought she was dead.I am also wondering about the life insurance payouts that must have been made for any passengers who had insurance. It's possible that Grace could have grown her business enough in five years to be where she is, but I just thought that money might have helped her. In fact, many of the passengers' families may have benefited similarly, so it would be interesting to explore that angle. Luanda, October 2, 2018 (SPS) -The President of the Republic, Mr. Brahim Gali, received a letter of thanks from the Angolan President, HE Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco, in response to the message of congratulations sent by the Saharawi leader on the occasion of his election as president of the Popular Liberation Movement of Angola (MPLA). President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco conveyed his thanks for the congratulations and the signs of brotherhood and solidarity linking both people for a long time Angola recognized the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) on March 11, 1976 and since then the two countries maintain excellent diplomatic relations at a high level. The Angolan nation has also shown during these four decades its support for the right of the Saharawi people to self-determination. SPS 125/090/TRA Photo: Castanet Staff Mayoral frontrunners Jason Cox (L), John Vassilaki (R) and incumbent Andrew Jakubeit will face off in a debate live streamed by Castanet next week Penticton residents will get a chance to hear from mayoral frontrunners next week during a debate the day before advance voting kicks off. Castanet News is partnering with the Penticton Herald to present a 90 minute debate between incumbent Andrew Jakubeit and top two challengers Jason Cox and John Vassilaki on Oct. 9, 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the Lakeside Resort. The conversation will focus on the issues looking forward and not previous political records, allowing each candidate to answer questions from two media panelists; Castanets Colin Dacre and Joe Fries of the Penticton Herald. Castanet will be live streaming the event in its entirety and will archive the video on site following the debate for on-demand viewing. Prior to the debate, voters will also have the chance to meet with mayoral, council and school board candidates one-on-one during a trade show from 4 - 7 p.m. Hopefuls will be set up with tables where residents can interact with them and ask questions. STAMFORD Hart Magnet School raised $1,820 for pediatric cancer research in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. More News State to consider two more charter schools On Sept. 21, the Hart School PTO hosted a fun day where students and staff wore a hat to school to raise money for WhipPediatricCancer.org. The organization donates all its proceeds directly to pediatric cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York City. The money raised will help further research in treating and ending childhood cancer. STAMFORD Nearly three years after the slaying of a mother of five in a West Side park, one of the men charged in the murder has pleaded guilty. Morris Moore, 27, of Stamford, pleaded guilty Wednesday to first-degree manslaughter with a firearm and will be sentenced in December to 20 years in jail. Moore and two others were arrested shortly after 43-year-old Maxine Gooden was struck by stray gunfire in Lione Park in November 2015. Moores attorney, Francis OReilly, declined to comment on the case after the hearing. Moore was given a 10-year suspended sentence that he can be forced to serve if he violates his five years of probation when hes released from jail. OReilly told Judge Gary White that his clients plea was not contingent on any cooperation with the state. The man police believe to be the shooter, Johonel Telemin, 24, also of Stamford, declined a plea agreement to the same charge that would have kept him in jail for 25 years. Supervisory Assistant States Attorney Paul Ferencek then rescinded the offer and Telemins case appears headed for trial next year. Telenins attorney, Robert Bello, declined to comment as he left the courthouse. Deshawn Hayes, 27, the third man charged in the murder, was given another week to consider the same offer Moore accepted. His attorney, Darnell Crosland, said he did not have enough time to talk to Hayes about the plea agreement after Moore took the deal. A lot of work goes into these cases, especially one like this when there are three defendants, said Sgt. Paul Guzda, the lead police investigator in the case. We are happy with this outcome and we feel this is a victory and I trust the family of Maxine Gooden feels the same way. The shooting occurred around 10 p.m. on Nov. 2, 2015. Several gunshots rang out in the park and Gooden, standing next to two of her daughters, dropped to the ground and was pronounced dead at Stamford Hospital a short time later. Two witnesses chased the shooter and another man back to a Jeep parked on Delaware Avenue. The witnesses followed the Jeep and notified police of the license plate number. Officer Nicole Petrenko spotted the SUV and other officers arrived to help pull the three men out of the vehicle. Ferencek said officers found a gun hidden in the dashboard that was consistent with the bullets found at the scene. All three men in the car tested positive for gunshot residue, Ferencek said. We have the evidence, we have good witnesses and good physical evidence, Guzda said. We feel good about everything. jnickerson@stamfordadvocate.com As part of a series aimed at understanding Russia's global influence, The Washington Post examined Russia's low-cost, high-reward strategy in Serbia - a pivotal Balkan nation that has declared its desire to join the European Union but also counts Moscow as an ally. Although the West is showering cash on Serbia, Russian influence is far more penetrating. The Kremlin dominates the front pages of newspapers; Serbian Orthodox priests often echo Russian talking points; and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic makes regular trips to Moscow to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. One key issue that has kept the countries close is the Kremlin's refusal to recognize Kosovo as an independent nation following the former Serbian province's decision to break away in 2008. Russia has used its U.N. Security Council veto to block efforts to give U.N. membership to Kosovo and to shield Serbia from condemnation. The Post spoke to Vucic this summer about how he balances relations between Russia and the West. Here are some excerpts from that conversation, lightly edited for clarity. -The Washington Post: You've been emphasizing a European, Western path for Serbia but also preserving good relations with Russia. If you were a member of the EU, you would have to impose sanctions on Russia. Is that something you would be ready to do? -Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic: Serbia has not only a regular and normal position but has the only position that it can defend by itself. Which means that we are on our EU path; we want to belong to a European type of society. That's No. 1, something of the biggest significance for us. And what we want to be a part of is the European Union as an organization of 27, 28 member states, which is the biggest bloc of peace and tranquility. And also, that would help us to keep stability and to keep up reforms on different issues, including the anti-corruption fight, rule of law. That's what we need. On the other hand, we have the Kosovo issue, which is interpreted in different ways, but you have Kosovo in all of our chapters in a way. Whatever someone might say, we are overwhelmed with the issue of Kosovo. And if you analyze the recent polls in Serbia, you are going to see that if one day there would be a referendum on the European future of Serbia, the EU path will win. That's about the rational approach of the Serbian people. But if there would be the people's assessment and people's estimation on the European policy on Serbia, it is slightly different. People immediately connect the European Union to all the pressures that we are facing with Kosovo, and it is the same with Americans. And it is something strange. And on the other hand, we have Russia, which supports our territorial integrity, which has always been helpful and supportive at the United Nations Security Council and at different institutions and organizations. We have a very rational approach, although we consider both Europeans and Russians among others as well, as our true friends. That's very simple. You take everything you can to defend your country's position and your country's and your people's interest. -WP: Apart from Russian support on the Kosovo issue, what is more attractive about Russia than the West to Serbia? -Vucic: Serbs are very much attracted by Western living standards, the standards of people. That's why they like Germans. Because they bring their factories, they bring their plants to this country. They respect them very much. And the way of living is something that is preferable in the West than in the East, no doubt. Then, some people wanted to stigmatize and to put a seal on our forehead, that we, our people, only our people committed genocide, you know, the only people in Europe to commit genocide after the Second World War. The Russians were on our side at the U.N. Security Council when the others were not. And people will say okay, they are a close ally, but here is our rational choice and our rational approach that we are going to go to the EU. It does not mean we are going to spoil our relationship with Russia. But even when we go to Russia, it does not mean we are leaving our EU path. But you know, I am the president of an independent country, and we make decisions by ourselves for the benefit and the sake of our people. We are Serbs, we are ordinary citizens of Serbia, we have our own politics and I'm very proud to say that. Of course, we have to obey some rules - to be decent with everybody - but we have our interests. That's it. -WP: Ordinary Serbs do not necessarily seem to realize the degree to which trade is focused on Europe versus Russia, and I have to say, looking at the Serbian media, I think I understand why. You see Vladimir Putin on the covers of tabloids. There is a big orientation toward Russia. And I wanted to ask why that is. -Vucic: I'll try to explain it in a very rational way, speaking about all the events from the 1990s, including 1999 [when NATO bombed Serbia]. And all the pressure that we were facing after 2000 on the Kosovo issue. I don't know what else. These are the reasons. I'll put it this way. If you ask my parents, particularly my father or my brother, they would have thousands of words of remarks on the European Union's behavior in Serbia. And after all, if you ask the question whether we should continue, whether we should carry on with our EU path, you always get the same response. [Yes.] It is very difficult to tackle people's sentiments and people's emotions. But this is our job to do it, to do everything in a very rational and realistic way. Our country, our Serbia, is on its EU path. Would we like to preserve the best possible relationship with Russia? Yes, we would. Are we going to join NATO or not? No, we are not interested in that. Do we have a good relationship with NATO? Yes, we do. Through [Partnership for Peace] programs, through all the other programs, but we are not willing to join NATO. -WP: What is the role of Sputnik [News Service] and of Russian media here? -Vucic: Sputnik became, I think, a relatively reliable source of news, if I'm not mistaken. I do not know, to tell you the truth. I am not sure. They work freely here and that's it. There is BBC in Serbian, as well. There is N1. There are media owned by people from different countries and that kind of diversity. Sleeper, the luxury sleepwear brand founded by Asya Varesta and Kate Zubarieva, was not birthed the way most new fashion labels are born. It was November 21, 2013 and the country of Ukraine was in a full state of unrest. The government suspended talks for an agreement with the European Union. In what was termed Euromaiden, Ukrainians hit the streets of Maidan Nezalezhnosti in Kiev to protest the government's decision to choose a closer relationship with Russia and the Eurasian Economic Union, a decision believed to be fueled by widespread government corruption. Despite the world seemingly crumbling around them, the founders remained committed to righting the wrongs of their government. Their business depended on it. It was a nightmare for Varesta, Zubarieva and their fellow Maiden activists. Marching in the streets, one of the greatest forms of positive civil disruption, worked. After the Civil Society prevailed in 2014, the founders moved fast. All of our fears vanished completely. We stopped being afraid and became ready to start a new page in our lives, says Varesta. Related: How This Instagram Artist Turned Her Passion for Fashion Into a Freelance Career Once the founders were able to move beyond survival of the moment and toward the potential of the future, Sleeper was formed with a brand mission infused with positive disruption and only $2,000 of co-owner capital. Sleeper was founded as a way for Varesta and Zubarieva to express a positive voice, one that would bring joy in the simplest of situations: relaxation and rejuvenation. For us the comfort of our home is sort of a subculture; its a tiny religion we are so vigilantly preaching. It is candid and personal, says Varesta. While sleepwear as streetwear has become a thing recently, at the time Sleeper was launched in 2014, it was really challenging to find elegant and luxury lounging clothes that could be worn outdoors. The founders met while working at leading fashion magazines in Russia and Ukraine. In true disrupter fashion, neither had ever designed clothes before starting their business. Their lack of experience showed through in their first collection, a black-and-white line that was a disaster and had to be taken apart and completely resewn in order to fulfill a requisition from a top retailer. Related: How Brands Are Going All Out to Embrace Sustainable Fashion As the founders picked themselves up from a near business-ending situation, they spent the next few months refining their supply chain and instilling a quality control discipline that has remained one of the key bedrocks of Sleeper. They moved their business into a proper workshop and upskilled from a single seamstress to a team with decades of experience. The hard work and investment paid off. Half a year later, our garments were available at Moda Operandi -- Americas leading online retailer. This became a major reason we started a factory production. True to their brand promise of positivity and social impact, Sleeper clothing is built upon ethical consciousness and artisan-manufacturing traditions. Each garment is made with natural, eco-friendly fibers like organic linen and silk. And because every Sleeper purchase is made-to-order, there is no excessive production. Each garment takes between 8 and 12 hours to sew by hand. My order, the Blur on Coal Set with Pants, took less than two weeks and has become an almost daily part of my wardrobe. Headquartered in Ukraine, Sleeper is currently planning to open a U.S. office with the hope of opening a flagship store in the near future. The ultimate goal is to house a learning center as part of a larger factory building where upcoming designers and fashion startups can learn and share industry experiences and educate new generations of seamstresses, embroiderers, engineers and technologists to design first-class clothes. Related: How Can You Start Your Own Direct to Consumer(DTC) Venture? Tapping into the Applicability of the Blockchain Disruption No entiendes el comercio electronico? Este mexicano y ecuatoriano te echan la mano Copyright 2018 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved French President Emmanuel Macron is trying to contain the aftermath of the messy resignation of his earliest political ally and most senior minister, the second major figure to leave his government in three months. "Nothing that has been happening for the past 48 hours is a political crisis," government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux said on Wednesday after the weekly cabinet meeting at the Elysee presidential palace, citing Macron. "The state is functioning, the government is working," he said. Interior Minister Gerard Collomb, 71, quit in the early hours of Wednesday after he had already announced he wanted step down to return to local politics in his hometown of Lyon. During the cabinet meeting Wednesday, Macron downplayed Collomb's departure, saying that the decision was "for personal reasons." Prime Minister Edouard Philippe is temporarily handling all of the Interior Ministry's affairs, until a successor is appointed. That should be "a matter of days," Griveaux told reporters. - - - The blow is big for Macron: Collomb's resignation comes as Macron is trying to recover from a series of gaffes and economic setbacks that had drawn him in polls to the lowest for a French leaders after 15 months in power. The opposition has been quick to jump on that new episode. "The Titanic is sinking further faster and faster and the orchestra stopped playing," Eric Ciotti, an opposition lawmaker from conservative party The Republicans, said in an interview with RTL radio early Wednesday. "It's a mess at the helm of the State," socialist lawmaker Boris Vallaud said. Collomb follows Nicolas Hulot, a popular television presenter and green activist who quit as environment minister in August, blaming the government for not giving enough attention to environmental causes. Collomb, three times elected mayor of Lyon and now seeking a fourth mandate, was the first top French political figure to rally Macron when the young and inexperienced politician launched his presidential campaign, granting him support and contacts. Collomb, seen as a pillar of Macron's government, shared a special bond according to the French president himself: the eldest member of his government cried at the then 39-year-old winner's presidential inauguration. "His departure is particularly sensitive because he was the first big elected official to rally to Macron. He gave credibility to Macron, so to see their couple fall apart is striking," said Florian Silnicki from LaFrench'Com, a Paris-based communications agency. "To have a minister using a series of interviews in media to take swipes at the executive power and to use the interviews to resign, it poses a real problem," he added. - - - The resignation, announced in a text message to reporters ten minutes after midnight, came after 36 hours of mixed and contradictory signals coming from the Elysee palace and the minister himself. Collomb publicly displayed some discontent as he stood on the steps of his ministry on Wednesday morning, waiting with signs of impatience for the prime minister to take over his security duties. "It looks bad from an institutional point of view and it's bad from a communications point of view," Silnicki said. BFM television, France's most watched all-news station, titled its coverage "Macron in Turmoil." The bond between the two was ruptured in July when Collomb told a parliamentary hearing the presidential palace was to blame in the affair of a Macron bodyguard caught beating up protesters. Collomb, of blue collar extraction, also said in a September televised interview that Macron's lack of "humility" explained his slide in the polls. Macron's approval ratings have fallen below 30 percent in some recent polls, with critics pointing to his aloofness and policies seen as benefiting the wealthy. His own bodyguard, who was fired for violence, said there as a "court" around the French leader, echoing Collomb's comments. The French president, while saying he was not poll-driven during an interview with Bloomberg last week, has nevertheless been paying attention: during last week's four-day visit to the French Caribbean islands recovering from last year's hurricanes, the president sought to show his connection to the people. In an interview with the Journal du Dimanche, he said: "I am happy to be among people. I like being in contact, being with them. It revives me." Photo: The Canadian Press Chart looks at risk if developing cancer form radiation.; 2c x 4 inches; 96.3 mm x 101 mm; The EPA is pursuing rule changes that experts say would weaken the way radiation exposure is regulated, turning to scientific outliers who argue that a bit of radiation damage is actually good for you like a little bit of sunlight. The government's current, decades-old guidance says that any exposure to harmful radiation is a cancer risk. And critics say the proposed change could lead to higher levels of exposure for workers at nuclear installations and oil and gas drilling sites, medical workers doing X-rays and CT scans, people living next to Superfund sites and any members of the public who one day might find themselves exposed to a radiation release. The Trump administration already has targeted a range of other regulations on toxins and pollutants, including coal power plant emissions and car exhaust, that it sees as costly and burdensome for businesses. Supporters of the EPA's proposal argue the government's current model that there is no safe level of radiation the so-called linear no-threshold model forces unnecessary spending for handling exposure in accidents, at nuclear plants, in medical centres and at other sites. At issue is Environmental Protection Agency's proposed rule on transparency in science. EPA spokesman John Konkus said Tuesday: "The proposed regulation doesn't talk about radiation or any particular chemicals. And as we indicated in our response, EPA's policy is to continue to use the linear-no-threshold model for population-level radiation protection purposes which would not, under the proposed regulation that has not been finalized, trigger any change in that policy." But in an April news release announcing the proposed rule the agency quoted Edward Calabrese, a toxicologist at the University of Massachusetts who has said weakening limits on radiation exposure would save billions of dollars and have a positive impact on human health. The proposed rule would require regulators to consider "various threshold models across the exposure range" when it comes to dangerous substances. While it doesn't specify radiation, the release quotes Calabrese calling the proposal "a major scientific step forward" in assessing the risk of "chemicals and radiation." Konkus said the release was written during the tenure of former EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt. He could not explain why Calabrese was quoted citing the impact on radiation levels if the agency does not believe there would be any. Calabrese was to be the lead witness at a congressional hearing Wednesday on the EPA proposal. Radiation is everywhere, from potassium in bananas to the microwaves popping our popcorn. Most of it is benign. But what's of concern is the higher-energy, shorter-wave radiation, like X-rays, that can penetrate and disrupt living cells, sometimes causing cancer. As recently as this March, the EPA's online guidelines for radiation effects advised: "Current science suggests there is some cancer risk from any exposure to radiation." "Even exposures below 100 millisieverts" an amount roughly equivalent to 25 chest X-rays or about 14 CT chest scans "slightly increase the risk of getting cancer in the future," the agency's guidance said. But that online guidance separate from the rule-change proposal was edited in July to add a section emphasizing the low individual odds of cancer: "According to radiation safety experts, radiation exposures of ... 100 millisieverts usually result in no harmful health effects, because radiation below these levels is a minor contributor to our overall cancer risk," the revised policy says. Calabrese and his supporters argue that smaller exposures of cell-damaging radiation and other carcinogens can serve as stressors that activate the body's repair mechanisms and can make people healthier. They compare it to physical exercise or sunlight. Mainstream scientific consensus on radiation is based on deceptive science, says Calabrese, who argued in a 2014 essay for "righting the past deceptions and correcting the ongoing errors in environmental regulation." EPA spokesman Konkus said in an email that the proposed rule change is about "increasing transparency on assumptions" about how the body responds to different doses of dangerous substances and that the agency "acknowledges uncertainty regarding health effects at low doses" and supports more research on that. The radiation regulation is supported by Steven Milloy, a Trump transition team member for the EPA who is known for challenging widely accepted ideas about manmade climate change and the health risks of tobacco. He has been promoting Calabrese's theory of healthy radiation on his blog. But Jan Beyea, a physicist whose work includes research with the National Academies of Science on the 2011 Fukushima nuclear power plant accident, said the EPA science proposal represents voices "generally dismissed by the great bulk of scientists." The EPA proposal would lead to "increases in chemical and radiation exposures in the workplace, home and outdoor environment, including the vicinity of Superfund sites," Beyea wrote. At the level the EPA website talks about, any one person's risk of cancer from radiation exposure is perhaps 1 per cent, Beyea said. "The individual risk will likely be low, but not the cumulative social risk," Beyea said. "If they even look at that no, no, no," said Terrie Barrie, a resident of Craig, Colorado, and an advocate for her husband and other workers at the now-closed Rocky Flats nuclear-weapons plant, where the U.S. government is compensating certain cancer victims regardless of their history of exposure. "There's no reason not to protect people as much as possible," said Barrie. U.S. agencies for decades have followed a policy that there is no threshold of radiation exposure that is risk-free. T he fate of one of Frances biggest retail chains, the 4 billion supermarket giant Casino, is being decided over croissants and melon balls in the glass-panelled meeting rooms of Canary Wharf and Mayfair. Since the start of the year, banks across the capital have hosted breakfasts and lunches behind closed doors for their big-money customers to discuss ways to profit from the woes of the 120-year-old retailer. The beleaguered chain, listed on the Paris stock exchange, has seen shares fall more than 30% since January due to emerging market turmoil in Brazil (its second largest market) and a slump in French retail. A complex debt structure put in place by 69-year-old chief executive and godfather of retail Jean-Charles Naouri, a former Rothschild banker and civil servant, has also triggered concerns about the companys health. But with the crisis in train, it is Londons trading desks and breakfast rooms which are taking advantage of the companys wobbly finances, with powerful investment banks teeing up trading ideas for their clients to make money off the business. Goldman Sachs London division, based in the art deco grandeur of Peterborough Court on Fleet Street, is one of the banks at the heart of the action. Goldmans so-called Fundamental Strategies Group unit, a crack team of analysts working on the credit trading desk in Goldmans sales and trading team, is one of the main players pushing trading ideas about Casino. Headed by veteran credit trader Leonie Morel, analysts on the desk compiled a mammoth 200-page dossier containing slides on Casinos accounts for clients interested in trading Casinos debt last month. The dossier, first reported by the Financial Times, coincides with Goldman becoming the biggest independent owner of Casinos shares, which it lends out to hedge funds wanting to short the stock. Goldman declined to comment. In Mayfair, BNP Paribas also hosted a small, 10-person lunch meeting in mid-September to discuss similar ideas about Casino and the sluggish European retail environment (which was particularly sensitive given BNP had made a loan to the retailer just two days earlier). BNP declined to comment. The Standard also understands credit traders in Canary Wharf at British banks Barclays and HSBC hosted similar breakfast meetings with clients in mid-September to discuss trading ideas about Casinos mammoth debt structure and the French retail industry. Since MiFid II reforms in January, investment banks have overhauled the way they interact with many of their customers, hosting breakfast and lunch meetings to discuss trading strategies to add some pizzazz to their research packages. That has prompted an avalanche of new trades rippling through Londons dealing rooms and Casino has become target number one. The retailers mind-boggling structure means there are myriad ways for hedge funds and banks to take punts on the group. Nearly 40% of Casinos shares have been shorted by mostly British hedge funds, according to figures from IHS Markit, and 18 different hedge funds are taking aim at the group or one of its parent companies. In total more than 1 billion of capital, nearly all of it traded from London, is tied up in complex bets on the downfall of the retailer, according to calculations by the Standard. There are a lot of tools and instruments to express your views, so obviously the banks love it and the hedge funds love it, said Antler Capital Partners managing partner Georges Gedeon, who runs a credit and event driven hedge fund in Mayfair. Its the type of thing you have to trade in and out of because its very volatile. When you have a lot of volatility there is a lot of money for the banks. Marshall Wace, the elite hedge fund based in Sloane Square co-founded by Lib- Dem donor Sir Paul Marshall two decades ago, is one of the biggest bears with a 1.3% short on Casino shares. Lansdowne Partners, another Mayfair hedge fund institution, is also shorting the shares of Casinos heavily-indebted French holding company Rallye but its not just the big boys. A small collection of hedge funds clustered around Bond Street like Naya Capital Management, run by Sir Chris Hohns former right hand man Masroor Siddiqui, and DSAM Partners, the brainchild of an ex-Goldman derivatives star Guy Shahar are also shorting the supermarket, according to filings with the French regulator. This is the perfect bear hunt, said one top London-based hedge fund trader. Banks can sell lots of different things, they can buy lots of things and they can collect a very nice margin. According to Louis Capital strategist Ben Kelly, one popular trade for hedge funds has been to buy credit default swaps for Rallye which pay out if the company goes bust and short the shares of Casino. More than 50% of the companys shares are controlled by Rallye, which also has shares listed in Paris and is controlled by chief executive Naouri. Rallye uses Casinos shares as collateral to obtain cash to pay interest on its eye-watering debt mountain. The more Casinos shares fall, the less collateral Rallye has to repay debts, leading to predictions the share price rout will destroy the parent company. If thats not enough, theres two other holding companies above Rallye Fonciere Euris and Finatis which also have debts. Its like a multi-layered cake of leverage with a whole string of holdings between Casino and the controlling stakeholder, said one hedge fund investor who is shorting the stock. The complexity of the Casino accounts are unheard of, they are very complicated. Theres derivatives everywhere and debt which is difficult to grasp. Londons financiers may be leading the squeeze but the shorting attacks have not gone down well in France. Federation des Investisseurs Individuels et des Clubs dinvestissement (F2iC) a campaign group for retail investors warned hedge funds shorting Casino and other firms last month that they would lead to impoverishment for small individual investors. The Autorite des Marches Financiers, the French version of the Financial Conduct Authority, has also warned against short-sellers or vente a decouvert in French for taking aim at the retailer. T he spectre of a potential Ital-exit (QuItaly?) shook markets today as a senior eurosceptic stoked fears that the nation could pull out of the single currency. Last week the countrys assets were battered after it proposed a new budget that would raise Italys debt and breach EU rules. That stirred EU president Jean-Claude Juncker who yesterday warned that if Italy gets away with its plans it could spell the end of the euro. Undeterred, Claudio Borghi, the economic head of Italys Right-wing Lega which is ruling in coalition with the Five Star Movement upped the ante by saying in a radio interview today that Italy would solve its economic problems by having its own currency. Up to now it has been largely Italys stock market which has been affected, but today the problems spilled over to London as banks and asset managers were sold off. Barclays was off 2.8p at 169.5p, HSBC fell 7.2p to 662.4p and Standard Chartered was down 7p at 608.5p. Schroders dropped 67p to 2955p and Legal & General lost 3.5p to 255.7p. Analysts said the banks were exposed by their holdings of under-pressure Italian government bonds, and asset managers are understood to hold property investments in the country. The rout caused the FTSE 100 to tumble by 38.96 points to 7456.71. But the biggest faller on the index was building and construction firm Ferguson the former Wolseley which faced increased calls to sell its UK division. Its full-year results showed that revenue grew 7.6% to $20.7 billion (15.9 billion), and trading profit rose 15% to $1.5 billion. But in the UK its performance was shoddy as trading profits took a 29% hit to fall to $73 million. The UK makes up only 5% of group profit and traders want to see the division sold off so that it can focus purely on its North America businesses. Shares were down 319p at 6210p. It was proving a tough session for home insurers after a stinging note from Investec. Citing weather losses and regulatory risks, analysts at Investec now expect underwriting results to turn negative for the year ahead. As a result Prudential lost 39p to 1706p and Hastings was down 8.2p at 259.6p. E thical investment campaign group ShareAction on Wednesday joined the voices raising concerns about Unilevers plan to relocate its HQ to the Netherlands. The group said institutional investors are right to be speaking up ahead of a vote this month by shareholders in Marmite maker Unilevers Dutch and UK entities. The FTSE-100 firm wants to move its legal headquarters to Rotterdam and switch from two classes of shares to one, to simplify its corporate structure. Some shareholders are worried that exiting the blue chip index will mean the stock is less likely to be included in UK managers portfolios. Several large shareholders have objected to the move, and trade body Pimfa, which represents financial advisers, has raised concerns. Shareholder Royal London Asset Management hit out at Unilevers plans today. The fund managers head of sustainable investments, Mike Fox, said: Should the motion succeed, we would be forced to sell our holdings in Unilever across a number of our funds, something we do not believe would be in the interests of our clients. ShareAction is also concerned that retail investors could be barred from having a say because they hold shares through third parties. Those third parties famously do not go through the trouble of facilitating voting due to administrative burden, a spokesman said. T he City wasnt impressed on Wednesday with Tesco boss Dave Lewiss efforts to turn its fortunes around after its profits fell short of expectations despite strong sales. Britains biggest supermarket, which launched a discount store last month to compete with the likes of Aldi and Lidl, said operating profits were up 24% to 933 million for the first half of the year, but that was below analysts expectations of 978 million. The shares fell 6.3%, or 14.9p, to 220.3p compared with 361p five years ago. Lewis, who discovered a financial scandal when he took over in 2014, said: We are firmly on track to deliver our medium-term ambitions and are continuing to improve the quality and value of our offer for customers. It said same-store sales in Britain were up 2.3%, while at cash-and-carry chain Booker, which Tesco bought for 3.7 billion, same-store sales rose 14.7%. Tesco shoppers can now buy 30 Booker products in 70 Tesco stores, with bulk buying proving extremely popular with customers who are planning engagement parties or weddings. The wholesaler accounted for 97 million of profit. Total sales grew 12.8% to 28.3 billion, but the retailer saw a decline in Asia and on the Continent. Theres little for Tesco to crow about outside of the UK and Ireland. Its clearly having a tough time in Thailand and there are costs associated with its gradual pull-out of Poland, said Emma-Lou Montgomery, a director at Fidelity International. With Aldi ramping up its UK expansion, Tesco clearly has an ongoing battle on its hands to retain its number one spot in the supermarket stakes. Our best days lie ahead of us, declared Theresa May to the Conservative Party conference today. Was it enough to answer the main question the Tories have been asking themselves in Birmingham this week: how many days has Mrs May got left in Downing Street? Todays speech was clearly better than last years. As she implied with her self-deprecating opening joke, it was impossible for it to be worse. The set remained intact and no comedian handed her a P45 although Boris Johnson tried his best yesterday . But today Mrs May also struck a welcome and different tone from the narrow nationalism of her first leaders speech two years ago. Christian Adams She went out of her way to praise a modern, diverse Britain. She cited the opportunity her party has given the immigrant-son Home Secretary and the lesbian mother-to-be who aims to lead Scotland but she also rightly condemned the abuse directed at Labours Diane Abbott. This was more like the Mrs May who as party chair told a Tory conference 16 years ago not to behave like the nasty party", than the Prime Minister who not so long ago was laying into the citizens of nowhere". There was a sensible announcement on a new cancer strategy and a pledge to continue the freeze on fuel duty making a virtue of necessity, as a hung Parliament would never have allowed the Chancellor to increase it. But the three central questions facing the Tories remain unanswered as Mrs May departed the stage. Brexit climbdown First, how is the Prime Minister going to land a Brexit deal? At Chequers this summer, Mrs May lost the support of hard Brexiteers but did not arrive at a negotiating position that the EU would accept. That has left her in no-mans land. That is where she remains. She told the Conservative Party today to come together. But its too late for that. After the fringe meetings this week, there's no way that hard Brexiteers are going to turn around and say: Youre right, well settle for Chequers. At the same time, she told the EU to accept her plan. But they have already rejected it . Her call again to be treated with respect will raise eyebrows from those leaders who have heard their European Union compared to the Soviet Union this week. As the Evening Standard predicted a year ago, Mrs May will need to commit to what amounts to continuing membership of the customs union in order to land a deal. An audience of the Tory faithful was probably not the place to make that climbdown but it needs to happen very soon. The second question is: what is the Tory response to Jeremy Corbyn? There were plenty of well-aimed attacks on the Labour leader in Mrs Mays speech but the alternative still feels a bit of a muddle. Waiters of the world unite, you have nothing to lose but your tips is hardly an adequate response to the hard Lefts plans to seize capital and hand it to labour. The Prime Minister summed up her economic plan as: fixing markets, helping with the cost of living, ending austerity and building an economy of the future. All of that has been said before at Tory conferences. The battle against the record budget deficit the country faced has, indeed, been largely won but the stock of debt is still uncomfortably high this late in the economic cycle and, even with a bit more spending, the budgets of public services will feel very constrained. There was too little in this speech on the technological transformation and accompanying reform that public services will need if the country is to square the circle. The final question is: will Mrs May still be leader at the next party conference? In the days after last years election fiasco, she bought time by implicitly promising to go next spring, after Brexit. The two most important voices who backed her remaining in office in that febrile week were Mr Johnson and David Davis. Today, though they claim they oppose the Queens measures rather than the Queen, few doubt their hostile intentions. Mrs May lost her mandate when she lost her majority. I ts satisfying, isnt it, when scientific brainboxes confirm what us non-academic types suspected. Michigan State University recently conducted the largest sleep-deprivation study to date, which shows that a lack of sleep is the primary cause of human error. Well, yes, I could have told you that. Its why The Cry, the BBCs new Sunday night drama which stars Jenna Coleman as a first-time mother losing her sanity to sleeplessness, has resonated with critics and viewers its nightmarishly relatable. The most painful scene shows Colemans futile attempts to calm her screaming baby on the long flight to Australia. I watched this just a few days after I booked our own plane tickets for the 20-hour journey with my three-month old baby to my wifes native Montana for Christmas, so it was as if the shows creators were livestreaming the very worst anxieties from my brain straight on to the TV. To cement this viewing experience, my daughter, competitive at heart, Im sure, clearly thought she could do a much better job in the role of wailing infant than the on-screen baby, and launched into her own impromptu audition. So, yes, the critics are right to laud the show, but for the best examination of the sleep-addled parents brain, nothing comes close to topping the words of Australian comedian and composer Tim Minchin in his darkly hilarious song Lullaby, which catalogues the oh-so wrong thoughts that flit through your mind at two in the morning as you try to quieten a squawking infant in vain. I dont know what else I can do to try to hush you/My heart says I love you, but my brains thinking f*** you ... Hush little baby, dont say a word/Papas gonna buy you a mockingbird/In the hope you get avian flu/The nice folk in A&E will take care of you. Frieze is causing a frenzy for art lovers As the Frieze art fair whirls into Regents Park, the rest of the contemporary art world is caught in its orbit. From the Serpentine to Studio Voltaire, The Showroom to Somerset House, practically every gallery in town has a blockbuster show opening to lure collectors, museum directors and arty big wigs as they descend on London. The fairs, the shows, the pop-ups, the talks: its a week of art overload an art pile-up. Only a superhero could properly see all of it. Its enough to make your eyes water, even without the help of Tate Moderns crying room installed in the Turbine Hall. The perfect Doctor Who for our times Doctor Whos ability to evolve with the changing times is key to the programmes long-running popularity. How else could a show that predates Woodstock, the Moon landing and the Civil Rights Act still find new ways to make children dive behind the sofa in fear? Jodie Whittaker as the new doctor in Doctor Who / BBC/Steve Schofield Yet you wouldnt know it from listening to the vocal minority of die-hard, grown-up fans who seem to perpetually fear change, as evidenced by their anger that the Doctor is played by a woman for the first time. As the debut episode of Jodie Whittaker airs this Sunday, the more furious fans should remember that the first appearance by Tom Baker in the role in 1974 was met with a mixed reception. With his long scarf and toothy grin, many were infuriated by his eccentricity, as a BBC audience research report found at the time. I would like him calmed down a bit because hes crazy, grumbled one. Hes too stupid for words, whined another. Today, Baker is the most iconic Doctor of them all. Whittaker deserves as fair a shot at playing the Time Lord (or Lady?) as any other actor. Crack down on the theatrical guzzlers Ok, own up, whos been getting sloshed at Salome? Audience members heading to the ENOs production this week were made to empty their water bottles across the steps of the Coliseum because, apparently, people at past shows were caught smuggling in vodka. T his was my second visit to a Conservative Party conference and I felt like an explorer in a faraway land, discovering a new species. It was a very different crowd to the Labour gathering at Liverpool last week. Everyone looked terribly smart and it was raining men. Everywhere. The kind who wear red trousers to relax in. On the plus side, there were no queues in the ladies loos. And everyone was very polite. I was soaking up the atmosphere when a nice activist called Nicola approached me to say she enjoyed my performance on BBC Question Time last week, although she disagreed with every word I said. We had a great chat and even found some common ground on Brexit. We both agreed that it was all a bit of a mess and that in the end it would be like changing your broadband a lot of admin and faff and you end up with something just as rubbish as you started out with. Nicola said it was a shame that she hadnt seen Theresa May out and about more in the conference centre meeting activists who think shes doing her best in difficult circumstances. There was talk that she was going to make an appearance and we got quite excited but it was only talk... Poor Theresa May appears to have gone into a witness protection scheme at her own party conference which could end up being her last. And heres why. Suddenly, there was an explosion of activity, a flash of unmistakable blond hair and Nicola and I were engulfed in a boisterous scrum of journalists, photographers and cameramen screaming Booorrrriiiiiis as they punched, kicked and shoved anyone out of the way to get a shot of the former Foreign Secretary snaking his way to make his alternative leaders speech. It was carnage and the perfect political metaphor. No wonder poor Theresa doesnt want to leave her hotel room. People queued for hours to get to see Boris speak at a packed fringe event while the main hall was empty. I felt for the Cabinet ministers who had to stoically plough on with their speeches to a sparse, underwhelmed audience. As a comedian, I share their pain. "I felt for Cabinet ministers who had to plough on with their speeches to a sparse, underwhelmed audience" It was like there were two conferences happening at the same time. The rather moribund Government one and the pro-Brexit happenings on the fringe which were busy, bustling and bursting with life. It reminded me of how Momentum runs its own conference separate to the official Labour one. But what struck me the most was that at every fringe event, speech and dinner, ministers, MPs, activists, lobbyists, commentators and policy experts were agonising over one thing Labour. How to handle, frame, attack and, most of all, stop Jeremy Corbyn. I witnessed disbelief morphing into dismay at how Labour appears to have got its act together while the Tories seem to lack any big political vision. A senior minister confessed that their issue isnt just Brexit, its what comes afterwards. And a business lobbyist quipped Winter is coming Leaders must do more to tackle hatred Anti-Semitism in the Labour Party has rightly been called out and a light shone on it. But the Conservatives have their own problems with Islamophobia, so it was good to see many members attend an important fringe meeting about tackling hate organised by Tell MAMA, the leading response and support service for the victims of anti-Muslim hatred. Deputy Conservative chair James Cleverly spoke and the new candidate to be Mayor of London, Shaun Bailey, also attended the event, which aired uncomfortable truths about the rise of Islamophobia and other hate crimes. Politicians of all parties were blamed for a lack of courage over the years. Its become socially acceptable to be a bit Islamophobic even among educated people and theres been a creeping normalisation of far-Right extremism justifying hatred towards Muslims in the media. All this has created a climate where people feel they have permission to hate. Especially when they see politicians do it. Which is why Boris Johnson calling Muslim women letter boxes was so upsetting. It made them think not only are they hated by the public but also by the elite. Words have consequences and we all need to do better. Hate breeds hate and its never confined to one race or religion to group. We should behave with more responsibility. *Im a big fan of Rihanna. Shes talented, cool, smart and sassy and is busy living her best life without caring what people think of her. She landed in Sydney after an eight-hour flight from Singapore but was suffering jet lag ahead of a party to mark the anniversary of her Fenty beauty range . But instead of resting ahead of the bash, she decided to do the most energising activity known to man or party girl... She hit a karaoke bar until the wee hours before a 7am meeting. Rihanna / Getty Images for Stance F or generations we have been telling children to stop playing around. And in museums its even worse. Dont touch that. No running. No talking. Well, at the V&As Museum of Childhood we are calling time on the killjoys with plans for a major new redevelopment. The more we discover how childrens brains develop and the importance of the early years, the more we must we encourage the power of play. Dressing up, imagination, role-playing and making these are the habits we need to encourage among Londons latest generation. At the Museum of Childhood we have the advantage of one of the worlds greatest collections of toys and puppets, Star Wars figures and train sets to spark the imagination. Whether its Rachel Whitereads dollhouses or our upcoming exhibition on pirates, our objects inspire wonder in childrens minds. When so many kids are hooked on iPads and iPhones, the museum can prise young eyes away from the screen. At the moment too many of our pieces are hidden in storage or locked up in Victorian cabinets so we want a Toy Story breakout to open up our Bethnal Green treasure trove. Our hope is to transform a much-loved but old-fashioned repository into a dynamic space full of coding clubs, creative communities, local artists and community-focused enterprises. We are going back to the V&As founding mission of using our collections to inspire designers, artists and engineers. Because it is a Museum of Childhood we are putting young peoples plans at the heart of it. Local primary school children have been telling our architects what they want. Above all, it is a safe and trusted space in which they can experiment, play and pretend. For despite all the gentrification of Shoreditch and Hoxton, child poverty in Tower Hamlets remains high. Schools and families do their best but with pressures on time and money the children of Bethnal Green and Whitechapel deserve more support in building their creative capacity. With art, design and music under pressure in the school curriculum, this is more important than ever. I also think some of the new businesses in Tech City and Old Street could think more about their civic responsibility as well as the need to nurture potential talent. The only way we will secure young peoples futures against the rise of the robot is to encourage creativity. The V&A first partnered with east London in 1872. The buildings which house the Museum of Childhood came from the 1851 Great Exhibition. Our Bethnal Green palace is a site of deep historic significance which now needs to work harder for the future. Alongside all those exams and timetables, Kumon and cramming, we should never forget the importance of imagination and fun. The future of the Museum of Childhood is all about playing around. F urther to your recent article [Anger as 165-year-old East End pub that survived the Blitz is flattened by developer, September 28], the wholesale demolition of the Carlton pub in Bethnal Green appears to be a flagrant breach of planning permission. The Carlton, dating to the mid-19th century, was a rare east London survivor from the Blitz, with many original decorative features. Recognised as such by Tower Hamlets council, planning permission for total demolition had rightly recently been refused. Historic pubs such as these on prominent corner sites are characteristic of so many neighbourhoods in London. These local landmarks are key to the character and history of our streets and cities but are increasingly under threat from development pressures. Many communities are fighting back to keep these buildings and there have been some significant successes all over the country. In Maida Vale, for example, Westminster City council is forcing the owner of a handsome 1930s pub who demolished it without consent to re-build it brick by brick. Regardless of whether this is a clear case of pre-emptive action to obliterate a precious building that the planning authority is specifically seeking to protect, Tower Hamlets council must take a tough line and insist on brick-by-brick re-instatement of The Carlton. Henrietta Billings, Director, SAVE Britains Heritage Melanie McDonagh, senior writer, responds Dear Henrietta Pubs have always been at the heart of communities in London and the rest of the country. Since 2000, the number of pubs in the UK has fallen by 17 per cent, or 10,500 pubs, according to the British Beer and Pub Association. And given that so many historic pubs have already been demolished, it is all the more important to protect those that remain. Developers should recognise and value the fact that pubs are important to many communities. If a developer is responsible for the demolition of an historic landmark pub, whatever the reason, it should be made to restore the building, brick by brick, exactly as it was and to find substitutes for the original features which were presumably destroyed with the rest. If Westminster council can make this happen in Maida Vale, so can Tower Hamlets in Bethnal Green. It is important that local authorities impose really punitive measures on developers if they are found to be flouting the rules. Fines are not enough. You deserve the thanks of Bethnal Green residents for your campaign. Good luck with it. Melanie London is firmly on the green road Rohan Silva [Emerald Cities: How capitals are saving the planet, September 27] is spot on in highlighting the vital importance of nature in cities. We agree that more can be done but there are reasons to be optimistic, and there is no shortage of ambition from the GLA. The Mayor supports the aim of making London a National Park City, with more than 50 per cent green space, and has set a timetable for zero emission zones to tackle air quality. Meanwhile, just this month, London committed to a policy that will see all buildings built to rigorous net zero carbon standards by 2030, alongside 19 global cities including New York, Paris and Tokyo. Photo: Family photo A terminally ill Vancouver girl is hoping to meet Ellen Degeneres when the TV star visits B.C. later this month. Jayda Suttie, 11, has a rare genetic disorder affecting nerves in the brain. Suttie was diagnosed after bumping heads with a school friend two years ago, which sent her into a coma. When she woke up three days later, her parents were told she has leukodystrophy. Jayda, when she woke up from the coma, could only move her eyes, said her mother, Linda Suttie. We were in Childrens Hospital for a week and then she went to Sunnyhill to do rehab. aShe was up walking in five weeks, and neurology didnt think she would walk, said Linda Suttie. Shes worked really hard. Jayda has tickets to see Ellen at Rogers Arena on Oct. 19 and is determined to meet her favourite celeb. "I love animals. I love to sing. I love to dance. I like everything like you. I just need to meet you and be on your show, she said. with files from CTV Vancouver I t is worrying that many people seem to have grown complacent about the risk of infectious diseases (Have a quick history lesson before you put off having the flu jab, September 27). This may be because society has not seen the devastating effects of diseases such as measles, diphtheria, typhoid or polio for many years. These fast-spreading infections were common as recently as my parents generation and some still pose a significant risk. Vaccination is one of the greatest developments of modern medicine, enabling important control over the spread of infectious diseases. Everyone must ensure that they take advantage of vaccinations, for themselves and especially for their children, who are more vulnerable to measles and similar diseases and who may also act as super-spreaders. Reducing the spread of infectious diseases is vital, and we must do more to encourage uptake of vaccination, particularly with the flu season just around the corner. Pat Cattini, Vice-President, Infection Prevention Society Ros Lydall, health editor, responds Dear Pat The flu vaccine is a bit like democracy its far from perfect but its the best system we have. Each years vaccine is chosen (months in advance) on the basis of the best-available knowledge of the strains thought likely to be circulating. Last winter, the trivalent vaccine worked against Aussie flu but was ineffective against the Japanese flu strain of Influenza B. Hundreds of people were hospitalised (from all kinds of flu). Not all survived. You highlight the wider problem with the poor uptake of vaccines. Last winter, only 48 per cent of primary school children in London received the flu vaccine the worst figure in the country. The nasal spray is unpleasant for a child to receive but thats no excuse. Last month, we reported that take-up of routine childhood vaccines, such as MMR, continues to fall at a time measles is on the rise. Uptake of the 5-in-1 vaccine (now 6-in-1) is at its lowest level for a decade. It protects against diptheria, whooping cough, tetanus, polio, Hib disease and hepatitis B. Vaccines work best when herd immunity is achieved. We all have a responsibility to look after other peoples children as well as our own. Ross The UK is not gaining its lost sovereignty by leaving Europe Mr Pickthorns assertion that we have lost sovereignty by being in the European Union [Should there be a new referendum?, September 27], and that vibrant democracy is the prize of leaving is wrong. We live in a parliamentary democracy where governments are voted into power to make precisely the sort of difficult decisions that the public can never hope to be fully informed of. A vibrant democracy isnt one where such difficult decisions are delegated to the general public in a referendum, nor one where a second unelected chamber exists. If Mr Pickthorns real desire is for a vibrant democracy then his ire should instead be directed towards the House of Lords. It is a fallacy to think that we will be gaining either lost sovereignty or vibrant democracy by leaving the European Union. Quite the opposite. David Baker Closing nurseries is unavoidable In reference to the letter Nursery closures will hit the poor [September 26, the very reason we are doing this is to continue to support 22,000 children in our borough, many of whom live in deprivation. There are 84 other childcare providers in the borough, many of whom have vacancies. Currently, 22 children are registered to attend those three nurseries and we are committed to finding them suitable alternative places. Sadly, in an age of austerity, councils face having to close childrens centres and libraries. In Tower Hamlets, we do our best to keep them open, but in this case, the cost and the fact there is suitable alternative provision meant we had to take this difficult decision. Cllr Danny Hassell, Labour cabinet member for children, schools and young people, Bromley South Ward A child cant make a choice on gender The amount of space given to trans stories in the media could lead one to think this is a phenomenon affecting half the population [The Girl Guides should lead the way to a better gender agenda, September 28]. While we must show empathy towards those diagnosed with gender dysphoria, a recognised condition, this should not be conflated with childrens development and understanding of gender. We dont let children make decisions that affect their lives until the age of 16 or 18, because they do not have the capacity or experience to understand the complexity involved and the ramifications important decisions may have on the rest of their lives. We need to be able to speak openly about a subject that sits uneasily with most people. Lewis Feilder Victims must tell of attacks at once Melanie McDonagh [Truth of the Kavanaugh case is far from simple, September 28] states nobody is neutral on this affair. I am fairly close to neutral, but above all I am saddened. How grim for Christine Blasey Ford to keep silent about such a terrifying incident, and to realise, that if she had reported it earlier, Brett Kavanaugh might have been brought to justice, which would have prevented him from standing for the US Supreme Court. But how grim, too, that Mr Kavanaugh is to be deemed guilty until proven innocent, that is never. A question mark will inevitably hang over any accusations levelled at him, given the timing of those revelations. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were given the royal titles Duke and Duchess of Sussex on their wedding day back in May, 2018. It took until Wednesday morning, though, for the newlyweds to visit their namesake county. The pair started their joint tour of Sussex in Chichester, before heading to Brighton. For the occasion, Meghan opted for a contemporary - and rather rule breaking - ensemble as she entered into the spirit of autumn dressing by championing a forest green leather shirt. Though leather could be seen as a bold choice for a member of the Royal Family, Meghan's 396 Hugo Boss number did boast a demure midi length and pencil structure. The Duchess of Sussex sported a leather skirt for her first official visit to Sussex / Getty Images As always, Meghan perfectly matched her handbag to the ensemble, choosing a handbag in the same emerald hue. The satin tote bag by New York-based brand Gabriela Hearst featured a unique modern design, made up of an elongated top handle and structured silhouette. Harry and Meghan visit Chichester Although the design was small (and we might add, very Instagrammable) it comes with a luxury price tag. The dainty 'Demi satin tote' is currently available to purchase for two weeks only on Net-A-Porter for 1,695. Meghan accessorised her look with a contemporary handbag by Gabriela Hearst / AFP/Getty Images Echoing the very beginnings of her royal wardrobe, Meghan smartened up the ensemble with a chic coat in her most championed colour: cream. The cashmere garment, which is now sold out, is by Emporio Armani, and is described on the website as: "A quintessential piece of outerwear, this timeless coat is perfect for completing your season's look with casual elegance." Meghan in a cashmere cream coat by Armani in Chichester / REUTERS Meghan did, however, manage to sprinkle a dash of high street into her look with a blouse from Swedish store & Other Stories, retailing for a rather reasonable 69. Plus, numerous items of jewellery by Missoma, including a 85 heart adorned signet ring. Meghan's hair was styled into a messy bun / PA F ictional newspapers of the future that imagine Donald Trump being assassinated are among the artworks on display at an exhibition opening in London this week. Survey, a new exhibition opening at Jerwood Space today, shows works by 15 up and coming artists who have been nominated by mid-career artists as the contemporary art stars of the future. Among these is Frank Wasser, whose work, 02.11.20, in the exhibition a fragment of a fictional future edition of the Metro newspaper, which leads with the story of Donald Trumps assassination in November 2020. The story then goes on to imagine Jeremy Corbyn reacting to the event in his role as Prime Minister, and other parts of the paper imagine a hard border in Ireland and NHS warnings relating to screen viewing induced illnesses. Other artists in the exhibition include Lindsey Mendsick, whose work consists of ceramic replicas of objects in her parents home including a selection of Compare The Meerkat soft toys and a Margaret Thatcher nutcracker. Joe Fletcher Orr will also present a work based on the time his dad once declared that artist Piero Manzoni was full of s***. The artists exhibiting in the show have selected by 35 working artists, including Rachel Maclean, Simeon Barclay, Ryan Gander and Bedwyr Williams. Following its run in London the Jerwood Charitable Foundation will take the show on a UK tour, visiting galleries g39 in Cardiff, Bluecoat in Liverpool and Baltic in Gateshead. Survey runs at the Jerwood Space from October 3 - December 16. For more information, visit jerwoodvisualarts.org T his weekend, London will host one of the biggest paw-litical events in history. On Sunday October 7, thousands of dogs will be making their bark as they march on Westminster to protest Brexit. Why is it taking place? Organisers say leaving the EU is likely to result in a suspension of the EU Pet Passport scheme a programme that allows more than 250,000 animals to travel overseas with their owners. The folks behind the Wooferendum dog march also claim that Brexit will see a shortage of skilled vets and vet nurses from the EU as well as rising costs for animal health and pet food products, something they say will be a disaster for the United Kingdoms 54 million pets. When is it happening? It is expected that thousands of good boys will meet at 12pm at Waterloo Place, just off Pall Mall in central London, before descending on Parliament Square around 12:30pm. Political activist: Archie the Terrier / Wooferendum What can be expected? After arriving at Westminster, a rally will take place with celebrity speakers including Peter Egan and Stephen Mangan, with more to be announced. The Wooferendum falls two weeks ahead of the people's march on October 20 and, after the canine event, a PETition signed by dogs and owners will be delivered to Downing Street. How do I get involved? To participate, simply turn up on the day (with or without a furry friend), to march on Parliament Square. A new season of work has been announced by the National Theatre, including a stage adaptation of Andrea Levys Windrush novel Small Island. Artistic Director Rufus Norris will direct a production of Levys Orange Prize-winning novel, which has previously been adapted for TV, on the theatres OIivier stage. It will be adapted by Helen Edmundson, whose production of Queen Anne transferred to the West End last year. Other highlights include a revival of Caryl Churchills seminal play Top Girls which will be directed by Lyndsey Turner, and the European premiere of Annie Bakers The Antipodes. Tickets for the already announced When We Have Sufficiently Tortured Each Other, which will star Cate Blanchett, are to go on sale via a ballot which will open on November 22. Stephen Dillane will star alongside Blanchett in Martin Crimps modern version of Samuel Richardsons Pamela, to be directed by Katie Mitchell. Elsewhere in the new season, Lenny Henry will perform his one-man show Richard Pryor on Fire about the legendary American comedian, which will be directed by Paulette Randall in the Dorfman Theatre. Inua Ellams will create a new adaptation of Chekhovs Three Sisters, to be directed by Stratford East boss Nadia Fall , and Blanche McIntyre will direct a new version of Molieres Tartuffe, adapted by John Donnelly. London's best autumn theatre 1 /21 London's best autumn theatre Twelfth Night October 2 - November 17, Young Vic Measure for Measure September 28 - November 24, Donmar Warehouse Company September 26 - December 22, Gielgud Theatre Buy tickets with GO London Dan Kennedy Sylvia September 3-22, Old Vic Theatre Buy tickets with GO London Manuel Harlan I'm Not Running From October 2, National Theatre Pinter at the Pinter From September 6, Harold Pinter Theatre Getty Images The Wild Duck October 15 - December 1, Almeida Theatre PA Hadestown November 2 - January 26, National Theatre The Woods September 5 - October 20, Royal Court Theatre The Village September 7 - October 6, Theatre Royal Stratford East Buy tickets with GO London Getty Images Wise Children October 8 - November 10, Old Vic Theatre Buy tickets with GO London Misty September 8 - October 20, Trafalgar Studios Buy tickets with GO London Helen Murray A Very Very Very Dark Matter October 12 - January 6, Bridge Theatre Dave Benett Heathers September 3 - November 24, Theatre Royal Haymarket Buy tickets with GO London Pamela Raith Holy Sh!t September 5 - October 6, Kiln Theatre Photo by Mark Douet An Adventure September 6 - October 20, Bush Theatre I and You October 18 - November 24, Hampstead Theatre Caroline, or Change November 20 - February 9, Playhouse Theatre Buy tickets with GO London Marc Brenner The Malady of Death October 3-6, Barbican Centre I'm a Phoenix, B**** October 3-20, Battersea Arts Centre A Small Place November 8 - December 1, Gate Theatre A new play from Clybourne Park playwright Bruce Norris will come to the National after opening at Steppenwolf in Chicago. Downstate looks at the lives of a group of men convicted of sex crimes against minors. James McArdle , who appeared in last years revival of Angels in America at the National, will star in a new version of Ibsens Peer Gynt to be adapted by David Hare as a co-production with Edinburgh International Festival. There will also be a production of Rutherford and Sons starring Roger Allam, a new play from actor Simon Woods starring Lindsay Duncan, and a sonic collaboration created by Ella Hickson and Ben and Max Ringham. T his years new his musical Six hasnt even finished its current run at the Arts Theatre, but has announced a return to the West End in January for an open ended run. Reopening at the theatre on January 19, the musical, which tells the stories of Henry VIIIs wives through pop music and girl power, has been programmed for an initial 16 week season until May 5. More than 50,000 tickets will go on sale on Friday. Written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, Six sold out a run at Edinburgh Fringe before transferring to London. It is co-directed by Moss and Jamie Armitage, with choreography by Carrie-Ann Ingrouille, set design by Emma Bailey and musical supervision by Joe Beighton. The Standards Fiona Mountford gave the show five stars calling Six the most uplifting piece of new British musical theatre I have ever had the privilege to watch. The show has already extended its run at the Arts Theatre until October 14 due to demand and will embark on a UK tour, starting at the Rose Theatre Kingston on October 31. W ould you like to read some good news? Thanks to Old Mout Ciders campaign in the Evening Standard, the work of charity Kiwis for kiwi, and countless conservation initiatives across the country, the status of New Zealands national icon the kiwi has improved from endangered to vulnerable. Does good news get better than that? As it happens, it does For each reader who signed up to support Old Mout Ciders mission to save the kiwi, the cider brand has donated 20p to Kiwis for kiwi. And, thanks to these contributions, 130 chicks have been hatched through Operation Nest Egg, and predator control on specially cultivated predator-free islands has been secured for two more years. What a fantastic result! A clear indication of what can be achieved when we come together to create real change. But there is still more work to do. Scientists have recently discovered that across New Zealand, the kiwi population is growing at a rate of -2 per cent, which is to say, numbers are still in decline. The flightless kiwi a characterful little creature, with its exceptionally long beak and feather-like hair is virtually defenceless. A prehistoric ratite, it thrived for millions of years when New Zealand was a paradise of birds and bats with no mammal predators at all until man arrived Its staggering to think that a bird that has been around for 50 million years could go extinct in the next 50, says wildlife expert and TV personality Michaela Strachan. In New Zealand, conservationists are working tirelessly to protect the kiwi from predators that have seen its population plummet. We are a small world and must take threats to species extremely seriously before its too late. Such tireless work includes that of Kiwis for kiwi, which has transformed islands such as Kapiti, off the coast of New Zealand, into predator-free sanctuaries for endangered birds. There, safe from such non-indigenous creatures as rats, possums and stoats, the kiwi can develop at a growth rate of 22 per cent per year a 24 per cent increase on whats happening on the mainland. But it can take up to five years to turn these havens into predator-free environments. And ensuring they remain that way is an ongoing challenge that you can join. This is why the kiwi needs your help For every person who signs up to the Save the Kiwi campaign, Old Mout Cider will continue to donate 20p to Kiwis for kiwi, so this important work can continue. So if you havent already joined, sign up to the campaign today. Loading.... And if you have already shown your support, encourage your family, friends, neighbours and work colleagues to sign up too. Collectively, we have the power to directly affect the future of this precious bird. And it really could not be easier. Just search online for save the kiwi, sign up to the mission, and together we will make history. R eality TV star Ferne McCanns ex-boyfriend is challenging the 20-year jail sentence he received after carrying out an acid attack in a packed London nightclub. Arthur Collins hurled the corrosive substance over a crowd on the dance floor at Mangle E8 in Dalston, east London, in what a judge described as a "despicable act". Collins, of Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, was sentenced at Wood Green Crown Court in December by Judge Noel Lucas. Three judges at the Court of Appeal will hear a bid by Collins, now 26, to win a reduction in his jail term at a hearing on Wednesday. Arthur Collins with ex-girlfriend Ferne McCann Sixteen people suffered chemical burn injuries and three people were temporarily blinded. Collins, the father of Ms McCann's baby daughter Sunday, told his trial he did not know the bottle contained acid. He claimed he believed it contained a liquid date rape drug which he had snatched from two men after overhearing them planning to spike a girl's drink. Arthur Collins on CCTV at the night out / Met Police But a jury convicted him of five counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and nine counts of actual bodily harm. Collins told his trial he had been out celebrating the news of Ms McCann's pregnancy, which they had announced to her family the previous day. After the incident, he went on the run and was not caught until several days later hiding out in a house in Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire. He has previous convictions including threatening words, possession of cocaine and assault, and was still subject to a suspended sentence for punching a man at a nightclub when he carried out the acid attack. A cid attacker Arthur Collins has lost an appeal against his 20-year jail sentence for carrying out an acid attack in a nightclub in east London. Collins, the ex-boyfriend of TOWIE star Ferne McCann, threw the corrosive substance over a packed dance floor at Mangle E8 in Dalston, in what a judge described as a "despicable act". The 26-year-old, of Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, was sentenced at London's Wood Green Crown Court in December by Judge Noel Lucas. Three judges at the Court of Appeal in London rejected his bid for a sentence reduction at a hearing on Wednesday. Arthur Collins on CCTV at the night out / Met Police Lord Justice Simon, announcing the decision, said: "We accept that this was a severe sentence, but these were exceptionally serious offences, and the severe sentence was fully justified." Sixteen people suffered chemical burn injuries and three people were temporarily blinded in the attack. Collins, the father of Ms McCann's baby daughter Sunday, told his trial he did not know the bottle contained acid, claiming he believed it contained a liquid date rape drug which he had snatched from two men after overhearing them planning to spike a girl's drink. But a jury convicted him of five counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and nine counts of actual bodily harm. Collins told his trial he had been out celebrating the news of Ms McCann's pregnancy, which they had announced to her family the previous day. After the incident, he went on the run and was not caught until several days later, hiding out in a house in Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire. He has previous convictions including threatening words, possession of cocaine and assault, and was still subject to a suspended sentence for punching a man at a nightclub when he carried out the acid attack. A science teacher accused of having a sexual relationship with a schoolboy in an aeroplane toilet admitted to police she flirted with him, a court has heard. Eleanor Wilson, 29, allegedly told detectives that she had given the boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, her phone number and sent him flirty messages. The teenager said he had sex with Wilson as they returned from an overseas school trip. It is alleged they began kissing at the rear of the plane before she beckoned him to the toilets. He claims the science teacher later told him she was pregnant with his child and was having an abortion. However, Wilson told police the alleged incident on the plane did not happen and that during the flight she had instead been looking after students who were ill before falling asleep. She said: It makes me sick to think about any of this. I had been flirting with [the boy]. Its just sick. I would not be thinking about doing any of this with [the boy]. Wilson, who denies four charges of sexual activity with a child by a person in a position of trust, added: The whole time I thought it was a friendship that had been flirty. I didnt touch him. We had blurred the lines about what a teacher and pupil should talk about. He kept coming to the office and talking about stuff and I told him I was pregnant as I had already told one of my colleagues and had no friends and already knew my boyfriend didnt want it. Wilson later told the boy she was pregnant and that he was the father, the court heard / PA The teenage claimant yesterday insisted his claim was true and not a fantasy, and said that the pair carried on seeing each other when they got home after the school trip. The court previously heard that analysis of the boys mobile phone revealed that between August 4, 2015, and March 18, 2016, there were 339 contacts between the two. The communication consisted of 295 text messages, 23 calls, 13 calls that went straight to answerphone and eight multi-media messages, Bristol Crown Court was told. Wilson, of The Rope Walk, Dursley, Gloucestershire, had told detectives that the boy has a difficult adolescence and thought he treated her like a big sister. The 29-year-old added: I felt like he needed looking after a bit. She recalled to police how the boy had given her chocolates and flowers when they visited Nandos with other members of the trip after returning to the UK. Jury members heard that she then gave the boy a lift home, used the toilet and gave him her phone number. When police asked why she did that, she replied: Because Im an idiot. Earlier the trial heard evidence from a school friend of the complainant who said he first heard of rumours during the school holidays about the boy and Wilson. "To begin with I was told by another student. At that point, it was more of a rumour. The rumour was (the boy) and Miss Wilson were in some kind of relationship or seeing each other outside of school and that it was sexual," he said. He said that when he returned to the school he spoke to his friend about it privately. The school friend added: "I asked him about what had been going on with him and Miss Wilson. "He told me about over the summer period when they went on the school trip and told me about how him and Miss Wilson had time alone and on the aeroplane home they had gone into the toilets and had sex. The trial continues. Photo: The Canadian Press President Donald Trump ignited a crowd at a campaign rally in Mississippi by mocking a woman who has claimed she was sexually assaulted by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh decades ago. The audience laughed as Trump ran through a list of what he described as holes in Christine Blasey Ford's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She testified that Kavanaugh pinned her on a bed, tried to take off her clothes and covered her mouth in the early 1980s, when the two were teenagers. Kavanaugh has denied Ford's allegations. "How did you get home? 'I don't remember,'" Trump said at the rally Tuesday in Southaven. "How did you get there? 'I don't remember.' Where is the place? 'I don't remember.' How many years ago was it? 'I don't know. I don't know. I don't know.'" Imitating Ford, he added, "But I had one beer that's the only thing I remember." It marked the sharpest criticism by Trump of Ford since she came forward publicly with the allegation last month. He had previously called Ford a "very credible witness." Ford's lawyer Michael Bromwich called Trump's attack "vicious, vile and soulless." "Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well?" Bromwich tweeted. "She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice." Arizona Republican Sen. Jeff Flake said Wednesday on NBC' "Today" that mocking "something this sensitive at a political rally is just not right." "I wish he hadn't done it," Flake said. "It's kind of appalling." Flake is a key GOP vote in the confirmation battle, and while he said last week he would vote to confirm Kavanaugh, he also called for an expanded FBI investigation that resulted in a one-week delay. Flake has not said how he will vote if the nomination comes up this week. The president was in Mississippi on Tuesday looking to use his influence to sway the outcome of a low-profile election that could tip the balance of the Senate. As Republicans fight headwinds ahead of the Nov. 6 midterm election, Trump sought to rally his supporters behind GOP Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, who was appointed to fill the seat of Republican Thad Cochran, who retired in April. She faces three candidates Republican Chris McDaniel and Democrats Mike Espy and Tobey Bernard Bartee in next month's special election for the remainder of the two-year term. "She's always had my back," Trump said. "She's always had your back. And a vote for Cindy is a vote for me." But Trump spent much of the rally lamenting the treatment of Kavanaugh by Democrats, whose attacks, he said, had taken their toll on the judge's family. "A man's life is in tatters," he said. Of Democrats, he added, "These are really evil people." A man is injured in hospital after being slashed during a daylight attack outside an east London Tube station. The busy road outside the station was blocked off by police after the attack in Bethnal Green on Wednesday afternoon. Scotland Yard said the victim was found suffering "slash injuries" and was treated by paramedics in Bethnal Green Road. He was then rushed to hospital. A police spokesman said they are awaiting an update on his condition. Pictures taken at the scene show a large police cordon in place outside Bethnal Green station as an investigation was carried out. Officers arrested a man on suspicion of GBH shortly after the attack, a Scotland Yard spokesman said. O nlookers stopped to take 'sick' selfies in the aftermath of the Westminster Bridge attack , the inquest into the terror rampage heard. A survivor of the 2017 attack has criticised those who were choosing to take photos of the aftermath, with people even posing for photos using selfie sticks, rather than offering to help the injured. The treatment of survivors afterwards on social media has also been highlighted in the ongoing inquest. One man said he received death threats following the horrific attack. Images of the attack and its aftermath were taken with mobiles and selfie sticks and were posted to social media, compounding the misery of victims families, the Old Bailey heard. The inquest is due to deliver its ruling into the attack later today. Gareth Patterson QC, representing families of the victims on the bridge, said graphic pictures of Aysha Frade's body beneath the wheels of a bus caused "real distress to the family". He said it showed a "rather shocking disregard" for the dignity of casualties, adding: "Despite efforts to have them taken down because of the distress caused, to this day there are images on the internet." People also took snaps of Romanian interior designer Andreea Cristea as she lay face down and unconscious in the Thames for five minutes, the inquest was told. Andreea Cristea was killed in the Westminster terror attack As well as the four fatalities on the bridge, 29 others suffered serious injuries from being struck by Khalid Masood's hired SUV. Travis Frain, 20, a student at Edge Hill University in Ormskirk, in Lancashire, was among the injured not called to give evidence at the inquest. In an interview he said: "I remember almost immediately after I was hit by the car there were lines of people in the windows of the bus filming and taking pictures and video. "It was not nice. I would like to think most people would help but I think in this day and age the natural reaction for a lot of people is to get out your camera and start filming. "It's a bit of a sick reaction. It's not everyone. There were some amazing people who ran over to help us and the people on the bus would not have been able to get off the bus. "I think personally I would not just sit there as a spectator taking videos." Mr Frain also received death threats and abuse from online trolls, apparently sparked by footage of him hobbling away, despite suffering a broken leg. He said: "Over the course of the last year and a half I received a number of messages from different people, different accounts. Travis Frain, injured on Westminster Bridge, receives a visit from Prince Charles in hospital / PA "The worst ones were at the start. I received a couple of death threats saying they were going to hang me and they know where I live. "Some said the attack was fake and we were all paid actors and some said the attack was real. "Another was sent to my place of work, saying, 'this man has faked being in a terror attack. I'm going to release the evidence soon. If you do not fire him it will affect your business relations. It would look bad'. "I have consistently told people that after being hit by the car I got up and walked off. Paramedics put it down to adrenaline. I had a broken leg and I just hobbled off." Mr Frain said he reported the death threat to police but no-one had been charged. On the effect of the abuse, he said: "Colleagues just came up to me and said jokingly 'it looks like you've got a bit of a nut job here, we felt you ought to see it anyway'. "It does feel uneasy. People are probably not going to believe them but what if somebody does question it?" The history and politics student said he had made reports to Facebook and blocked abusers on Twitter, although the material was still "out there". Khalid Masood was behind the Westminster terror attack. / Getty Images Lawyer Jill Greenfield, head of personal injury at Fieldfisher, is representing Ms Cristea's boyfriend Andrei Burnaz and others whose lives have been shattered by the events of March 22 last year. She said: "What has, at times, been the most despicable behaviour illustrates the worst side of social media by providing a platform to air derogatory comments. "Such comments and the arbitrary use of personal information perpetuates the trauma for those already suffering the atrocity of terrorism. "Terrorism works on enough levels of harm without social media adding to that pain." She added: "Our client Andrei Burnaz was extremely upset when the press ransacked his and Andreea's Facebook accounts and published personal pictures and information." None of the graphic CCTV or pictures shown at the Old Bailey inquest was released to the public. T errified rush-hour commuters ran for their lives when a knifeman screaming threats stabbed a London Overground passenger with a foot-long blade. Panicked travellers ran from the train as the crazed man launched the assault shouting: Ill kill you all, witnesses said. The victim, described as white and in his 30s, was left lying injured on the carriage floor as people fled through the station. He was rushed to hospital with injuries which are not thought to be life-threatening. Dramatic footage shows the moment the suspect was arrested by police following the attack on the packed train as it travelled between Hackney Central and Hackney Wick yesterday evening. Armed police at the scene in Hackney after a man was stabbed Leon Bruff, 29, who was in the same carriage as the knifeman, said passengers trampled over each other to escape the maniac. He told The Sun Online: He literally went on a rampage. He was going crazy. He was shouting: Dont mess with me, you wanna f*** with me and Ill kill you all. Everyone was scared for their lives. Mr Bruff, who works for the Royal Society for Blind Children, said he and four others rounded on the knifeman as the passengers, including children, ran to the opposite end of the carriage. The scene at Hackney Central station after a commuter was stabbed on a London Overground train / @joestreet18 He said: We turned and faced him. There were four of us who surrounded him. He raised the knife at us but then the train stopped at Hackney Wick and he got off. He was pacing up and down the platform - effing and blinding. Esther Faleti from Romford, who was on the train travelling from Dalston Kingsland, told the Standard: The knife was about a foot long. We got to Hackney Central and everyone rushed out, we were climbing over each other. I was screaming. The guy got out onto the platform and out of the station and was still threatening to stab people. The 44-year-old added: Im still shaking. I had never seen anything like this before. Commuters said today that people on board feared for their lives Passenger Hazel Orton said she was sat just feet away from where the knifeman struck at about 6pm. I heard a commotion to my right, then I heard people shouting and a wave of people were pushing and stampeding through the train, she said. People were shouting get me off the train. As I looked to my right there were people huddled around someone on the floor. The 26-year-old added: I felt shell shocked, and frightened. The poor man had been stabbed in the chest and was struggling to breathe. Nick Renaud-Komiya, 28, said: I saw a guy with a knife in his hand walking towards me, he was shouting a lot but I couldnt get any of what he was saying. The police arrived really quickly and they grabbed him and had him up against the police car. Police seized the suspect outside Hackney Central Overground station following the incident last night. A British Transport Police spokeswoman said: Just after 6pm BTP officers, along with colleagues from the Metropolitan Police Service, were called to a report of a man having being stabbed at Hackney Central Overground Station. The London Ambulance Service has taken the victim to hospital, where he is being treated for his injuries. A man has been arrested. T he death of a police officer in the Westminster terror attack could "possibly have been prevented" if armed officers were nearby, a coroner has said. Chief Coroner Mark Lucraft QC ruled that all five victims of the terror attack were "unlawfully killed" as an inquest into their deaths concluded at the Old Bailey on Wednesday. He also said it was possible that the death of Pc Keith Palmer, 48, could have been prevented if armed officers had been at the Carriage Gates at the Palace of Westminster when he was stabbed by terrorist Khalid Masood. Coroner Lucraft said "shortcomings in the security system" at New Palace Yard, including the supervision of armed officers, meant they were unaware they should have been on guard near the gates at the time of Pc Palmer's murder. Masood, 52, killed four pedestrians - Aysha Frade, 43, Kurt Cochran, 54, Leslie Rhodes, 75, and Andreea Cristea, 31 by hitting them with a hired 4x4 Hyundai on Westminster Bridge on March 22 last year. He then ran towards the Carriage Gates and stabbed Pc Palmer to death. Masood was shot by armed officers and later died in hospital. Police arrest Khalid Masood outside the Palace of Westminster. The inquest into the five deaths on March 22, 2017, concluded today. (PA Archive/PA Images) / Stefan Rousseau/PA No marksman had been near the open gate for nearly an hour before the horrific attack by Masood, the inquest heard. But chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation Ken Marsh questioned whether their presence could have saved Pc Palmer. Neil Basu, Scotland Yard's head of counter-terrorism, said the force "unreservedly accepted the coroner's conclusions". Michelle Palmer, widow of Pc Palmer, said: "How could Keith have been left alone, unarmed, guarding an open gate at one of the most iconic buildings in the world and one of the country's top terrorist targets? Victims (clockwise from left): Pc Keith Palmer, Leslie Rhodes, Andreea Cristea, Aysha Frade and Kurt Cochran "He was left at a vulnerable location with no protection to die. "The fact there were no firearms officers there for nearly an hour is hard to believe. I truly believe that if they had been there he would still be here today and Amy wouldn't have lost her daddy. "What is so disappointing is that the police haven't been very open about their investigation in relation to the security arrangements at the Palace of Westminster. They have been very slow to get to the bottom of how this was allowed to happen." Attacker Khalid Masood / Met Police/PA She added that "nobody wants to take responsibility for leaving one of their own officers there unprotected when they knew that police officers were at risk of attack at this vulnerable location." His wife said the "lax security" had been "carrying on for years" and that it had taken her husband's death "for things to change". Mrs Palmer went on: "They let Keith down by failing to protect him and let us down by failing to investigate his death properly. Now we have to live with the consequences of their failure." Mr Basu said: "We unreservedly accept his [the coroner's] conclusions. "Even the possibility that the Met lost the chance to prevent the murder of such a brave and courageous officer is unacceptable. "For the loss of that possibility to protect him from Khalid Masood, we are deeply sorry." Mr Basu said Pc Palmer "acted with tremendous bravery and heroism" on the day of the attack, adding that "his courage will never be forgotten". Metropolitan Police Federation head Mr Marsh said that at any time of day 70 armed officers are on duty within the area covering Portcullis House, 10 Downing Street and the Palace of Westminster. This means there are more armed officers within that area than anywhere else in the UK, at any time of day. Mr Marsh, who leads the organisation that represents all Met officers from the rank of constable to chief inspector, said: "What played out in the scenario we're talking about was absolutely unique and bizarre, and would never happen again in a million years. "To then say 'were they vulnerable, were they put at risk by not being armed?', when you actually look at all the statistics and facts, within that triangle you have more armed officers than anywhere else in the UK. That's a massive amount of armament. "About 27,000 of my colleagues walk around the streets of London without any armed officer near them on a daily basis. There is nothing that says standing where they were, you have to have an armed officer there. "There was no intelligence or any reason to believe that they were at greater risk by not being armed where they were standing." Experienced marksman Lee Ashby, who was on duty at the Palace of Westminster on the day of the attack, accepted during questioning by Dominic Adamson, representing Pc Palmer's widow, that the security system on the site "completely failed" to protect the unarmed officer and "had not functioned for years". But Mr Marsh said there is a balance to be struck because Members of Parliament had insisted they did not want the first line of officers "armed to the teeth". "You have your static posts of non-armed officers because it's what the MPs wanted, they didn't want to see guns in their faces all the time," he said. "It's a very difficult scenario because MPs and Lords want to whisk in and out and don't want to stand around. You've got to balance all these things up. I don't think it's disproportionate for our unarmed colleagues to be standing in the position they're in, and doing the jobs they're doing." Even if Pc Palmer had a gun or a Taser it would not have saved him, the Federation chief believes. Masood stabbed him repeatedly with two knives five seconds after arriving at the gate where he was on guard. "You have to put into context the speed of what happened, even if he'd had a firearm, would he have had the ability to draw, aim, shoot? "If someone just comes running at you it's not the first thing you do in London, just get your gun out and shoot them. An officer wouldn't initially just pull a firearm or a Taser out and shoot someone." Pc Palmer's family including his sister Angela Clark and his wife said the inquest had been "extremely traumatic and difficult for the family". They said they welcomed that the coroner had recognised some of the Met's failings but believe he should have gone further. "We fought hard to try and get answers to the many questions which have arisen through this process. Unfortunately there are many which are still unanswered," the said. "We expected the Met to welcome an open and transparent examination of this horrific attack on its own officer and members of the public, yet instead senior officers seem to have closed ranks. "What message does this send to ordinary officers bravely reporting for duty every day, to keep us all safe? "We would like to say how proud we are of Keith. We now have an even clearer picture of just how brave and courageous he was in that terrible moment. "We love and miss him every day, but we are very glad that we had him in our lives." The inquest heard that police at the Palace of Westminster had explored the possibility of 24 hour Taser cover in 2015. At the time, firearms officers were not on site overnight or on Sundays. For a total of 48 officers to be trained and equipped to cover the out-of-hours shifts would have cost 75,000; or for a total of 150 officers to cover the full 24-hour period would have cost 246,000. The favoured option at the time was to use authorised firearms officers, who all carry Tasers, for greatest flexibility. Armed officers are now permanently stationed at the Carriage Gates where Pc Palmer was murdered, behind their non-armed colleagues. MI5's knowledge Masood's contact with terrorists in the 13 years before the Westminster Bridge attack has also come under heavy scrutiny during the inquests into his victim's deaths. Former terror watchdog Lord Carlile said even though the material connecting Masood with terrorists may be considered "of a low grade, taken item-by-item", if he had been more fully investigated he may have been stopped from committing murder. John Frade, the widower of mother-of-two Aysha who was killed in the attack, said he hoped "lessons will be learned to prevent other families from being in this situation in the future". T he long-term effects of cannabis on cognition depend hugely on how young you start to smoke it, according to a new study of 4,000 teenagers. Scientists at the university of Montreal have published new research comparing how weed affects brain development over time - and found sustained users were far more likely to suffer repercussions for their thinking ability. Researchers followed 3,826 young people in Canada for four years, keeping track of how much they drank, the drugs they consumed and then given a series of perceptual and memory tests. In the report, published this week in the American Journal of Psychiatry, the team said that teenagers who consistently and increasingly used marijuana over time displayed drops in cognitive functions like recall memory, perceptual reasoning, inhibition, and working memory. A woman waves a flag with a marijuana leaf as crowds gather to celebrate National Marijuana Day in Canada. The country became the second to completely legalise the drug in June. / AFP/Getty Images Both alcohol and marijuana affected how teens brains work, but senior author Patricia Conrod PhD said increases in cannabis use, but not alcohol consumption, showed concurrent and lagged effects on cognitive functions. The teens were assessed through a variety of memory tests, as they tried to repeat a learned pattern of stimuli, and had to perform a series of increasingly difficult puzzles. The findings raise concern as marijuana has been increasingly legalised around the world - in California, Uruguay and Canada itself. Other countries take a liberal attitude including the Netherlands, Switzerland and Portugal. It's available for medicinal purposes in 41 countries, but not the UK. The number of students who said they never used cannabis fell from 95.4 per cent in the first year to 71 per cent in the final year of research. And as more teens reported using cannabis, those who said they did so every day increased from 0.37 to two per cent. Dr Conrod said: "We were surprised that the effects of cannabis were more pronounced than the effects of alcohol - and we were surprised of the lasting effects. "Even if a young person reduced their use, you could still see effects from the previous year. It was more than we expected." The study is "unique" because it followed such a large group of subjects, the researchers said, showing the complexities across a spectrum of different people. But there are numerous previous studies which have found teens who smoked cannabis had problems with cognitive development and respiratory disease. This is concerning for researchers after a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report found a quarter of middle school students int he US were using e-cigarettes to conceal cannabis oil. However a University of Colorado-Boulder suggested alcohol was far more detrimental to the brain - as heavy drinkers had lower levels of grey and white brain matter for strong cognitive function, but cannabis had no effect at all. The next step for researchers is to examine causal factors - and the wider-reaching impacts of drug abuse. A coroner today hailed the brave actions of London's doctors and nurses for saving lives in the aftermath of the Westminster terror attack. Coroner Mark Lucraft QC has begun delivering his verdict in the inquest of the five people who died in the attack by praising the efforts of those who rushed to help the injured and dying. "I'm sure many more people didn't die from their injuries because of the capabilities and quite overwhelming acts of those who responded", he said. He said doctors and nurses from nearby St Thomas' Hospital helped those injured by "treating them where they could", adding: "I'm sure what they did is a great comfort to the families who couldn't be with their loved ones at that time." Mr Lucraft also criticised bystanders who had filmed the aftermath of the attack, including injured and dying victims, and posted the footage online. "Some of the material is very distressing to the families, and I would encourage that it is removed", he said. The man behind the attack, Khalid Masood, 52, killed four pedestrians - Aysha Frade, 43, Kurt Cochran, 54, Leslie Rhodes, 75, and Andreea Cristea, 31 by hitting them with a hired 4x4 Hyundai on Westminster Bridge on March 22 last year. Tribute: US tourist Melissa Cochran, whose husband Kurt was killed in the Westminster attack, arrives for a memorial service at Westminster Abbey / AP Mother of two Mrs Frade was thrown under the wheels of a passing bus, Mr Leslie and American tourist Mr Cochran suffered fatal injuries when hit by Masoods car, and Ms Cristea, a Romanian tourist, was flung into the River Thames. Masood, an extremist with ties to Anjem Choudarys banned Al Muhijaroun (ALM) group, then crashed his car into the perimeter fence around Parliament, clambering out armed with two knives. As pedestrians screamed in horror and fled, Masood ran through the Carriage Gates entrance to Parliament and stabbed PC Keith Palmer to death. Masood stabbed the unarmed officer repeatedly and was shot dead dead as he ventured further into the Westminster estate. A police officer places flowers and a photo of Pc Keith Palmer on Whitehall after the Westminster attack / Dominic Lipinski/PA The coroner said it was clear Masood was carrying out a "deliberate act", targeting people at random as they enjoyed the iconic sights of London. The family of PC Palmer has called on the coroner to find that Met Police systems failed to adequately protect Parliament and the officers on duty. Dominic Adamson QC, for PC Palmers widow, told the Old Bailey inquest: "The bulk of the evidence demonstrates strongly and clearly that for the majority of the time, there was not effective support at the perimeter of the Palace of Westminster. "The evidence has shown that in the 108 minutes that preceded the attack, authorised firearms officers were within the vicinity of the gates for a maximum of 14 minutes that is a total of 13 per cent of that time." The court heard that armed officers were on mobile patrols around a section of the grounds which include Carriage Gates, but were not permanently stationed at the entrance. However Scotland Yard chiefs say instructions were changed in January 2015 to ensure armed guards were close to the gates, but that junior officers failed to follow them. Susannah Stevens, representing PC Palmers sisters and parents, suggested there was a lack of acceptance and responsibility on behalf of the senior leadership team of the Metropolitan Police Service. But Hugo Keith QC, who is representing the Met Police, argued this morning that any police failings identified by the coroner could not be blamed for PC Palmer's death. He said Masood struck with "unanticipated speed", while officers stationed at and near to Carriage Gates were distracted by the noise of the extremist's car crashing into the perimeter fence. "The stark reality is Masood entered through Carriage Gates so quickly that no single officer had time to react, let alone prevent the fatal attack", he said. PC Nick Carlisle was a colleague of PC Palmers and rushed to his aid during the attack by Masood, attempting to rugby tackle the extremist to stop him. Asked about Masoods motives yesterday, he said: He looked me directly in the eye. He was coming through a crowd of people. He was not interested in members of the public. He was coming to kill police officers. The inquest has heard how Masood was on the radar of the security services as long ago as 2004, when his telephone number was on a contact list of a jihadi involved in the so-called fertiliser bomb plot in Crawley. He went to live in Luton and Birmingham, close to known Muslim extremists, and he was suspected in 2010 of helping Al Qaeda operatives travel to Pakistan for terror training. However, Masood was put on a closed list of terror suspects in 2012 and was not under active surveillance at the time of the attack. We do think there is room for improvement in terms of decision making, said Gareth Patterson QC, for the families of the victims on the bridge. The Frade family was quite frankly bewildered by the failure to revisit Masood, particularly in the latter years when he was again and again meeting with ALM individuals. The coroner will today rule on the deaths of all five victims, deciding how they died and any steps that could have been taken to save them. N umber 10s director of communications, Robbie Gibb, has strongly rejected claims of media bias. This follows yesterdays explosive letter on unprecedented circumstances surrounding interviews with the Prime Minister which merely made public a long-running battle between UK broadcasters and Downing Street. News executives and presenters, including Channel 4 News Jon Snow, are furious with the No 10 communications team for what they claim is a case of No 10 giving the lions share of access to Theresa May to the BBC. Everyone had complained about a month ago, a source said, before adding: And then they [the BBC] had days of access for Panorama. The Panorama special on May featured extensive interviews between presenter Nick Robinson and the Prime Minister. Yesterdays letter, signed by executives from Channel 4, ITV, Sky, Channel 5, and even the BBC itself, demanded the PM be available for interview with all the UKs national broadcasters. Gibb also came under attack from Skys Adam Boulton, who tweeted: Mays largely silent spin doctor, ex BBC suit, thinks only his old employer matters. But Gibb pointed out that May has carried out 36 interviews during this years conference and insisted that the idea that any broadcasters have been excluded is particularly erroneous. In July broadcasters complained to No 10 that The Andrew Marr show had sewn up TV interviews with Mrs May, but Downing Street hit back that higher viewing figures for the programme explained her frequent appearances. A source says Jonathan Munro, BBC News head of newsgathering, was contacted by a hurt Gibb after the letter was sent, but Munro declined to comment this morning. Gibb also would not discuss the claim but he did ask his own question: When is Jeremy Corbyn going to do an interview with Today? The broadcasters had said we have already seen attempts to exclude some journalistic organisations in America, but a source went further this morning: The BBC is to May what Fox is to Trump. A Civil Way to Leave Michael Gove is the polite Brexiteer. When asked about a second vote yesterday, the Environment Secretary said: I didnt expect that there would be such a head of steam behind the calls for a second referendum or a peoples vote as there have been. But its a legitimate political campaign, obviously not one with which I agree, backed by serious people so one has to pay respect to that argument. Asked whether Brexit was turning out as he expected, Gove, speaking at the Demos In Conversation session at the Conservative conference, replied: No, not quite. First the field of wheat... now this More tales of youthful misbehaviour from Theresa Mays No 10. Former adviser Chris Brannigan says that the worst prank he played as a university student happened the night he found a dead dog in the road. His initial instinct was to take the hairy black thing somewhere it could be buried, but as he carried it to his digs, he was seized by the hilarious idea of depositing it on the feet of his sleeping roommate. Were still friends, he assures us. Although briefly the following morning we were not. --- Alicia Collinson, barrister and wife of Damian Green, was the former tutorial partner of Theresa May in 1974, when they studied political geography together at St Hughs, Oxford. Asked if May had boyfriends before Philip she said, Oh yes. Very nice men. All terribly successful today. Would she elaborate? Collinson made a zipping gesture. Ill never tell. --- Often when Amber Rudd gets into a taxi the first thing shes asked is, Is Brexit going to happen? to which she replies: Yes, yes, Brexit is going to happen. And the second is: Is being Home Secretary really like it is on Bodyguard? to which she replies, Yes, yes, it really is like it is on Bodyguard. SW1A Bernard Jenkin MP defended Jeremy Hunt yesterday, saying the Foreign Secretary was absolutely right to compare the EU to the Gulag because this idea that this European ideal of democracy and enlightenment should be used to bully a country to remain is an absolute scandal. This view is not the only thing they share. Earlier in the meeting he had said: We should not be selling some of our top tech companies like ARM to the Chinese. ARM was sold to the Japanese. --- Robert Jenrick, Exchequer secretary to the Treasury, feels green. I started in January, so Im still in my ministerial nappies. Im the Cabinets token millennial. But he has his uses teaching Philip Hammond how to use Snapchat. --- T heresa May called on the nation and her warring Conservative party to come together today in a speech aimed at breathing new life into her leadership and her battered vision for Brexit. The Prime Minister danced onto the stage to the tune of Abbas Dancing Queen to deliver her party conference address, in a show of defiance to her critics. She went on to announce the end of austerity, promised more borrowing for housing, and unveiled an NHS cancer strategy. #Mrs May used the word together 16 times and invoked the two world wars in a call for unity in the face of the challenge of Brexit. If we come together, there is no limit to what we can achieve, she cried. Striking an upbeat tone throughout, she also joked about last years disastrous address, quipping that she had been up all night supergluing the backdrop. But behind the show of levity, Mrs Mays enemies appeared to be circling for an attempted coup. British Prime Minister Theresa May arrives with her husband Philip May ahead of her speech on the final day of the Conservative Party Conference / Getty Images One backbencher, James Duddridge, a supporter of Boris Johnson, declared minutes before she took the stage that he had sent a letter of no-confidence in an attempt to trigger the process for a leadership election. Mrs May warned her party that if it didnt back her on Brexit, Britains exit from the EU might be lost altogether. If we all go off in different directions in pursuit of different versions of the perfect Brexit, we risk ending up with no Brexit at all, she said. The PM did not plan to mention Mr Johnson by name but she included an acid rebuke for his reported remark f*** business. She spent more time tearing into Jeremy Corbyns policies and his response to the Salisbury Novichok poisoning, saying the Labour leader would outsource [Britains] conscience to the Kremlin. Striking a determinedly optimistic tone, Mrs May promised better days ahead and appeared to signal a loosening of the national purse strings, starting with spending pledges such as a new cancer-detection strategy and a boost for housebuilding by scrapping a borrowing cap. A new star was born as low-profile Cabinet minister Geoffrey Cox, the Attorney General, delighted the audience with his speech introducing the Prime Minister. In thespian tones, the QC cried: Methinks I see in my mind a noble and puissant nation rousing herself like a strong man after sleep and shaking her invincible locks. Let us seize that prize. Audience members likened Mr Coxs speech to a Shakespeare performance and a court room summary. Austerity The era of tough austerity measures such as wage freezes is over, the Prime Minister declared. After a decade of austerity, people need to know that their hard work has paid off, she said. In a message that could dismay Cabinet spending hawks, she argued that harsh measures no longer commanded enough public support. The British people need to know that the end is in sight. And our message to them must be this: we get it. Mrs May implied that austerity had tainted the Tory image. We are not just a party to clean up a mess, we are the party to steer a course to a better future. Sound finances are essential, but they are not the limit of our ambition. Setting out new rules, she said: Debt as a share of the economy will continue to go down, support for public services will go up. Because, a decade after the financial crash, people need to know that the austerity it led to is over and that their hard work has paid off. She told the hall: Because you made sacrifices, there are better days ahead. Chequers The backbone of the Prime Ministers speech was a defence of her Chequers proposals for Brexit, which she cast as a free trade deal that provides for frictionless trade in goods. Fending off the Brexiteer charges of betrayal, she said her plans would keep faith with the British people and also protect hundreds of thousands of jobs, prevent costly checks and protect our precious Union. Britain isnt afraid to leave with no deal if we have to, she said. But we need to be honest about it. Leaving without a deal introducing tariffs and costly checks at the border would be a bad outcome for the UK and the EU. Mrs May said her Brexit plans would allow the Government to reduce the numbers of immigrants to the UK. However, she did not repeat her much-criticised 100,000 target. She said: We will be able to reduce the numbers, as we promised. She ruled out a second referendum, saying: They call it a peoples vote, but we had a peoples vote and the people chose to leave. A second referendum would be a politicians vote. Boris Mrs May did not mention Mr Johnson by name in her text, but it included a clear and acid rebuke for his reported f*** business outburst. She praised the nations risk-takers and job creators, and went on: So, we in this party, we in this hall, we say thank you. And to all businesses large and small you may have heard that there is a four-letter word to describe what we Conservatives want to do to you. It has a single syllable. It is of Anglo-Saxon derivation. It ends in the letter K. Back business. Unity From the start of her speech, attempted to summon a spirit of warmth from activists. Recalling last years speech blunders, she told the party faithful: There are some things about last years conference I have tried to forget. But I will always remember the warmth I felt from everyone in the hall. She also joked about the steamy BBC drama Bodyguard, saying: It wasnt like that in my day. Cleaning up politics Mrs May said politics had changed for the worse from polite debate to a confrontation between enemies. She condemned a Left-wing demonstration that saw abuse hurled at MP Jacob Rees-Moggs children, and then went out of her way to defend Labours Diane Abbott, the shadow home secretary, asking how it was possible for the first black woman ever elected to the Commons could receive more racist and misogynist messages today than when she first stood over 30 years ago. The Tories, she pledged, would set a standard of decency that will be an example for others to follow. NHS A new cancer strategy for the NHS to mark its 70th anniversary will focus on rapid diagnosis with the aim of increasing the early detection rate in a decade, which the Prime Minister said see wanted to see rise from one-in-two today, to-three-in four by 2028. Plans for more rapid diagnostic centres across the UK will mean that 55,000 more people will be alive five years after their diagnosis compared with today, Mrs May said. Colouring the section of her speech on the NHS was a rare personal moment, when she spoke movingly of her late goddaughter. Mrs May said: She underwent treatment and it seemed to be working. But then the cancer came back. Last summer, she sent me a text to tell me that she was hoping to see another Christmas. But she didnt make it. Labour Turning her fire on Labour, she branded Jeremy Corbyns flagship policy, for large companies to have to allocate 10 per cent of their shares for workers, as a giant stealth tax. Mrs May said: Workers wouldnt become shareholders and much of the income generated would end up with the Government. It would slash the share prices of British businesses, hitting anyone with a private pension, and it would make the UK an unattractive place to invest, driving away business, destroying jobs. At Labours annual rally in Liverpool last week, the party had just offered bogus solutions that would make things worse, she said. While Mr Corbyns proposals might seem attractive at first glance, they would hurt the very people they claim to help, she argued. She criticised Labour plans to re-nationalise Britains rail network and utilities, claiming they would see less investment as governments would be more tempted to choose schools and hospitals over reservoirs and railways. Stressing that Labour would hike taxes, she added: Even some in the Labour Party admit their programme of nationalisation, and their endless expensive promises, would cost 1 trillion. But one of her strongest attacks was on Mr Corbyns stance on security including his response to the Salisbury Novichok poisoning which saw Britain and other nations respond by expelling more than 150 suspected Russian spies. The Labour leader refused, at least initially, to blame Russia for the attack and Mrs May warned: Just imagine if he were Prime Minister. He poses as a humanitarian. But he says that military action to save lives is only justified with the approval of the Security Council effectively giving Russia a veto. I say no we cannot outsource our conscience to the Kremlin. Security With Britain facing an array of threats from Russia, rogue states, terrorism, and cyberattacks, Mrs May stressed the need for strong defences against dangers from abroad and at home. But she also emphasised the security for families and individuals which comes from having a good job, a home of your own, and dignity in old age. The Prime Minister added: Security is the bedrock of freedom ... Freedom of thought, freedom of expression, freedom of action. O ne of Boris Johnsons allies today announced that he had written a letter to Tory chiefs demanding a leadership election. Shortly before Theresa May was due to give her keynote speech to the partys annual rally, James Duddridge revealed he had sent a letter to the chairman of the Conservative 1922 backbench committee, Sir Graham Brady, calling for a contest. I write this with heavy heart, however we now need a proper leadership election and to move on, he said. The MP for Rochford and Southend East said that Conservatives need a strong leader, someone who believes in Brexit and someone to deliver what the electorate voted for. He added: The Prime Minister seems incapable of doing this. I have not met a single MP who thinks she will lead us into another election after the last disastrous snap election. We will fail to cut through on issues other than Brexit until we are beyond Brexit, yet the can is kicked further and further down the road. Earlier Mr Duddridge had claimed that Mrs May was haemorrhaging support in the Cabinet and Tory party, and branded negotiations with the EU an absolute disaster. He added: Boris is a rock star. He is a vote winner, he is a leader she is neither of these. What is the point of Theresa May if she is not delivering Brexit? Sir Graham is required to call a no-confidence vote of the parliamentary party if he receives 48 letters from MPs. It is not known how many he has already received. Meanwhile, Mrs Mays de facto deputy mocked Mr Johnson's speech yesterday as an end of the pier show. Cabinet Office minister David Lidington launched a withering attack on the former foreign secretary after he won a standing ovation yesterday for laying out his rival vision of Brexit. Mr Lidington dismissed Mr Johnsons pitch to the Tory faithful. Hes always got some well-crafted lines and its the end of the pier show sort of event, he jibed. He challenged Mr Johnson to spell out the price he was prepared to pay to chuck Chequers, calling on him to admit how many jobs would be lost if smooth trade with the EU ended under a Canada-style deal, and how much risk he was prepared to take that the union of the United Kingdom could be broken. Appearing to belittle Mr Johnsons abilities as a politician, he described him as a very talented journalist and stressed he had been speaking at a fringe event, rather than on the main stage. MPs return to Westminster next week, at a time when Mrs May faces having to make fresh concessions to the EU to get a Brexit deal. Cabinet Office minister David Lidington launched a withering attack on ex-Foreign Secretary Mr Johnson after he won a standing ovation at the conference in Birmingham yesterday for laying out his rival vision of Brexit. Amid spiralling speculation that Brexiteers are preparing to move against Mrs May over her Chequers Brexit blueprint, Mr Lidington dismissed Mr Johnsons pitch to the Tory faithful. Hes always got some well-crafted lines and its the end of the pier show sort of event, he jibed. Mr Lidington challenged Mr Johnson to spell out the price he was prepared to pay to chuck Chequers, calling on him to admit how many jobs would be lost if smooth trade with the EU is lost under a Canada-style deal, and how much risk he was prepared to take that the union of the United Kingdom could be broken. Appearing to belittle Mr Johnsons abilitys as a politician, he described him as a very talented journalist and stressed he had been speaking at a fringe event at the conference, rather than on the main stage. Mr Lidington is one of the most polite MPs at Westminster and the ferocity of his attack suggested No10 was seeking to stamp on the possibility of a revolt against Mrs May. The Cabinet minister spoke out as one of Mr Johnsons allies took to the airwaves to say he had no confidence in Mrs May delivering Brexit, claimed she was haemorrhaging support in Cabinet and in her party, and branded the negotiations with the EU an absolute disaster. James Duddridge, the MP for Rochford and Southend, said: Boris is a rock star. He is a vote winner, he is a leader - she is neither of these. What is the point of Theresa May if she is not delivering Brexit. Mr Duddridge revealed he had not written to Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the Conservative 1922 committee of backbench MPs, calling for a change of leader. But he insisted: If there is a vote of no confidence shes got to go, I personally have no confidence in her leadership over delivering Brexit. My support for her is wearing thin to the point of being invisible. It was not clear this morning whether Mr Duddridge was acting alone or if he was part of a wider plot against Mrs May which could intensify when MPs return to Westminster next week and as she faces having to make fresh concessions to the EU to get a Brexit deal within weeks. France has been the most hardline on a future trade deal with the UK and its Europe minister Nathalie Loiseau said today: No deal would be better than a bad deal, Loiseau told Radio Classique station. Photo: The Canadian Press Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton To some, Brett Kavanaugh is clearing his name. To others, he's veering into conspiracy theory. But in blaming "revenge on behalf of the Clintons" for the sexual misconduct allegations against him, the Supreme Court nominee is drawing new attention to his time on the Kenneth Starr team investigating Bill Clinton. And in doing so, Kavanaugh has shown he can deliver a Donald Trump-like broadside against detractors even if it casts him in a potentially partisan light. As a young lawyer, Kavanaugh played an important role on Starr's team investigating sexual misconduct by the then-president and helped shape one of the most salacious chapters in modern political history. Kavanaugh spent a good part of the mid-1990s jetting back and forth to Little Rock, Arkansas, digging into Bill and Hillary Clintons' background, according to documents made public as part of his nomination to the Supreme Court. It was Kavanaugh who pushed Starr to ask Bill Clinton, in graphic detail, about the nature of his sexual relationship with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. In a memo from 1998, Kavanaugh wrote that Starr should ask Clinton whether he engaged in phone sex and specific sexual acts with her. Starr took Kavanaugh's advice. His resulting report ultimately presented evidence that Clinton, in denying the affair, lied under oath. The report became the grounds for Clinton's impeachment. Now it's Kavanaugh who is facing sexual misconduct allegations, including from Christine Blasey Ford, who said he groped her at a party when they were teenagers and tried to remove her clothes. And it's Kavanaugh who was pushed to speak publicly in personal, painful detail. In testimony to the Senate Judiciary Committee, Kavanaugh forcefully denied ever sexually assaulting Ford or anyone else. In an emotional statement, he put the blame for the accusations against him partly on the Clintons. "This whole two-week effort has been a calculated and orchestrated political hit," Kavanaugh testified. The 53-year-old said it was being fueled by "pent-up anger" over Trump's 2016 election victory and outside groups stoking fear about his judicial record. He also said it was revenge on behalf of the Clintons. The "revenge" line has reverberated this week as senators await the results of an FBI background check investigation into sexual misconduct allegations against Kavanaugh. Democrats have called the comment a breathtaking breach of judicial impartiality that should be disqualifying on its own. Republicans have defended the tenor of Kavanaugh's remarks, saying he had every right to be upset. GOP Sen. Orrin Hatch of Utah calls it "righteous anger." Among those stunned by Kavnaugh's comment was Chelsea Clinton, who told The Associated Press she thought what he said should be "disqualifying." "He channeled a conspiracy theory about my family and I thought, Oh goodness, like, Judge Kavanaugh, I don't even think I knew who you were until you were nominated," she said. Clearly her family was "looming larger" in his mind than he was in hers, she said. "But even if he'd gone after a former Republican president or a current Republican senator or politician, I would feel the same way that that kind of blatant partisanship should be disqualifying." At an event Tuesday, Hillary Clinton scoffed, "Boy, I'll tell you, they give us a lot of credit." Clinton tried to run the logic of Kavanaugh's claim during an event hosted by The Atlantic. "It would've had to have happened 36 years ago," she said, "and that seems a stretch, even for the vast right-wing conspiracy stories about me." A suspected victim of modern slavery has been rescued from a shed in northern England where he is thought to have lived for more than 40 years. The 58-year-old British man was discovered by government officers during a dawn raid at a home north of Carlisle, in Cumbria. Investigators believe the man, who was taken away by specialist trauma officers to be medically assessed, had been living in a green six-foot shed. A 79-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of modern slavery offences, according to the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA), which carried out the raid. Pictures show a chair, a makeshift bed and a TV inside the shed / Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority Pictures from the scene show a small shed with a rag covering the floor, a white chair, a television and a makeshift bed. The GLAA said the operation had been supported by specialist officers from the National Crime Agency and Cumbria Police. T he Duke and Duchess of Sussex were pictured together today on their first joint official visit to the county that inspired their royal titles. Harry and Meghan headed to the south coast on Wednesday on a whistle-stop tour of Sussex. On a busy day of engagements they arrived first in West Sussex, at Edes House in Chichester. The duke and the US-born former actress arrived to view the rare Sussex copy of the American Declaration of Independence. Duke and Duchess first visit to Sussex - In pictures 1 /46 Duke and Duchess first visit to Sussex - In pictures Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex arrive at the University of Chichester's Engineering and Digital Technology Park during an official visit to West Sussex Getty Images Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex greet wellwishers on arrival in Chichester AFP/Getty Images Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, strokes the dog of a well-wisher as he arrives in Chichester AFP/Getty Images Meghan, Duchess of Sussex greets wellwishers on arrival in Chichester, West Sussex AFP/Getty Images Getty Images Meghan, Duchess of Sussex received a bunch of flowers from well-wishers during a visit to the Pavilion Building in Brighton AP The Duchess of Sussex during a visit to the Royal Pavilion in Brighton, East Sussex, as part of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's joint official visit to Sussex. PA Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex make an official visit to Sussex Getty Images Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, greets well wishers in Chichester Reuters The Duke and Duchess of Sussex on a walkabout at Edes House, West Street, Chichester, as part of their first joint official visit to Sussex. PA The Duchess of Sussex meets locals during a walkabout at Edes House, West Street, Chichester, as part of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's joint official visit to Sussex. PA Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, strokes the dog of a well-wisher as he arrives in Chichester AFP/Getty Images The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrive at Edes House, West Street, Chichester, as part of their first joint official visit to Sussex. PA Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, (L) and Britain's Meghan, Duchess of Sussex (R) greet well-wishers as they arrive in Chichester, West Sussex AFP/Getty Images Armed police patrol ahead of a walkabout by Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, in Chicheste Reuters The Duchess of Sussex meets locals during a walkabout at Edes House, West Street, Chichester, as part of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's joint official visit to Sussex PA The Duke of Sussex high fives a school child during a walkabout at Edes House, West Street, Chichester, as part of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's joint official visit to Sussex. PA The Duke of Sussex high fives a school child during a walkabout at Edes House, West Street, Chichester PA Local school children wait for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to arive at Edes House, West Street, Chichester, PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex on a walkabout at Edes House, West Street, Chichester, as part of their first joint official visit to Sussex. PA The Duchess of Sussex pats a dog during a walkabout at Edes House, West Street, Chichester, as part of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's joint official visit to Sussex PA The Duke of Sussex during a walkabout at Edes House, West Street, Chichester, as part of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's joint official visit to Sussex. PA Well wishers hold up a banner as Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, visit Chichester Reuters Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, greet well wishers in Chichester Reuters Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex wave during an official visit to Sussex Getty Images The signatures of Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex are seen in the visitors book at Edes House in Chicheste AFP/Getty Images Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, (L) and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex arrive at Edes House in Chichester AFP/Getty Images Meghan, Duchess of Sussex makes an official visit to Sussex on October 3, 2018 in Chichester, United Kingdom Getty Images Meghan, Duchess of Sussex signs the visitors book during an engagement at Edes House in Chichester AFP/Getty Images Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex signs the visitors book during an engagement at Edes House in Chicheste AFP/Getty Images Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex greet locals during an official visit to Susse Getty Images Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, greets well wishers in Chichester Reuters Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex greets wellwishers on arrival in Chicheste AFP/Getty Images Meghan, Duchess of Sussex greets locals during an official visit to Sussex Getty Images Meghan, Duchess of Sussex greets wellwishers on arrival in Chichester, West Sussex, southern England, on October 3, 2018 for an engagement at Edes House. - The Duke and Duchess of Sussex made their first joint official visit to Sussex AFP/Getty Images Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Getty Images REUTERS REUTERS REUTERS PA REUTERS PA AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images REUTERS Then they will head to Bognor Regis to officially open the University of Chichester's Engineering and Digital Technology Park. In the afternoon the couple will travel to East Sussex. Meghan and Harry pictured together in Chichester / AFP/Getty Images Harry, who was given the title the Duke of Sussex by the Queen on the morning of his wedding, will tour Brighton's historic Royal Pavilion with the duchess. Afterwards they will visit the nearby Survivors' Network, a charity that supports victims of sexual violence and abuse. High five: Harry greets well-wishers / PA The couple end the tour in Peacehaven, meeting youngsters at the JOFF Youth Centre and hearing about their work on mental health and wellbeing. The couple are going to visit Chichester, Bognor Regis and Brighton / PA While in Chichester and Brighton, the pair will also spend time meeting the crowds gathered to greet them. Before Harry, the title the Duke of Sussex was last used 175 years ago by Prince Augustus Frederick - an eccentric son of King George III who had his two marriages deemed illegal. A rare bottle of whisky has sold for a world record price of 848,750 at an auction in Scotland. The 1926 Macallan Valerio Adami bottle is the most expensive in the world and has been described as the Holy Grail of whisky. Attracting attention from the worlds most serious collectors on Wednesday, the rare bottle fetched a hammer price of 700,000, plus a buyers premium of 148,750. The whisky, which was created in 1926 and bottled in 1986, had expected to fetch between 700,000 and 900,000 at the auction at Bonhams in Edinburgh. The world's rarest and most valuable whisky, The Macallan Valerio Adami, after it was sold for 848,750 / PA Martin Green, Bonhams whisky specialist in Edinburgh, said: I am delighted at this exceptional result. It is a great honour to have established a new world record and particularly exciting to have done so here in Scotland, the home of whisky. The Macallan 1926 60-year-old has been described as the Holy Grail of whisky. Its exceptional rarity and quality puts it in a league of its own, and the worlds most serious whisky collectors will wait patiently for many years for a bottle to come on to the market. According to Bonhams, the previous world record was set by the auction house in May this year when another of the same bottle, also from 1926, sold for 814,081. Two Pop Artists Valerio Adami and Peter Blake were commissioned by Macallan to design 24 labels for a very limited edition of the whisky, with 12 carrying the Adami label and 12 of Blakes. It is not known how many Adami bottles still exist, although one is said to have been destroyed in an earthquake in Japan in 2011 and at least one is believed to have been drunk. Bonhams auctioneer Charles Graham-Campbell during the auction / PA The bottle sold on Wednesday was bought by the seller directly from the Macallan distillery for an undisclosed sum in 1994. P rotesters at Stansted Airport risked causing catastrophe when they cut through the perimeter fence and locked themselves around a deportation flight, a court has heard. The activists, dubbed the Stansted 15, are accused of tying themselves together around the parked plane with their arms in lock boxes made of piping and filled with expandable building foam. Chelmsford Crown Court heard that the group offered no useful information to authorities called to the scene on March 28 last year, including whether other people were there. Tony Badenoch QC, opening the prosecution case on Tuesday, said: It hardly need be said that the presence of a person, or even a small piece of debris on a runway, could if ingested into a jet engine, easily cause catastrophe or damage. The runway was shut for one hour and 20 minutes while the police helicopter conducted an aerial safety check, and 19 Ryanair flights had to be diverted to other airports, Mr Badenoch added. Activists went to a Titan Airways Boeing 747, which was chartered by the Home Office to transport people from the UK detention centres for repatriation to Africa, the court heard. It was in a part of the airport used by private and charter airlines. The prosecution alleges the group displayed a banner which read mass deportations kill. Stop charter flights and wore clothing with the slogan no-one is illegal. Mr Badenoch said the foam they used to secure themselves together came from aerosols marked extremely flammable and said one man, Edward Thacker, 29, was seen running around the plane before he was arrested. Four others allegedly locked themselves around the planes nose wheel, with the rest arranged around a scaffolding structure they put up. When police asked what was in the piping, they allegedly were told it was kryptonite, which jurors heard is a well-known substance from Superman comics and movies. It took until 8am the next morning to release all the defendants from the lock boxes. Mr Badenoch said that at the time the UK threat level in relation to international terrorism was classed as "severe" meaning an attack was considered "highly likely". A number of armed officers at Stansted had to down arms, meaning a reduced capacity to protect passengers at the terminal building, he added. The trial, expected to last six weeks, continues. Who are the Stansted 15? Aged between 27 and 44, all defendants have all pleaded not guilty to a single charge of intentional disruption of services at an aerodrome, contrary to Section 1(2)(b) of the Aviation and Maritime Security Act 1990, on March 28 2017. The defendants include Helen Brewer, 28, Lyndsay Burtonshaw, 28, Nathan Clack, 30, Laura Clayson, 28, Melanie Evans, 35, Joseph McGahan, 35, Benjamin Smoke, 27. Also on trial are Jyotsna Ram, 33, Nicholas Sigsworth, 29, Melanie Strickland, 35, Alistair Tamlit, 30, Edward Thacker, 29, Emma Hughes, 38, May McKeith, 33, and Ruth Potts, 44. Twelve of the defendants' given addresses are in north London, Burtonshaw's is in Brighton, Potts's is in Bristol and McGahan's is in Reading. The trial, expected to last six weeks, continues. A ustralia has scrapped its tax on female sanitary products following an 18-year row. Under the new rule, Australians purchasing sanitary products will not have to fork out an extra 10 percent in goods and services tax (GST). Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said it will come into effect on January 1, 2019. Womens groups have been campaigning against the tax since it was introduced in 2000. They argue that sanitary products should be classified as essential items. Luxuries equivalent to the 18k women spend on periods in a lifetime 1 /6 Luxuries equivalent to the 18k women spend on periods in a lifetime 20 Mulberry Bayswater bags Alexa Chungs favourite handbag in a classic oak hue costs a splurge-worthy 895 to buy - but you could buy 20 with your 18k budget Getty A night in the Apartment at The Connaught, London If youre looking for a less practical luxury to splurge your money on, you could blow it all on a night at Mayfair's premier penthouse suite - with lofty living spaces, a luxury four-poster bed and roaring fires to boot. A Tiffany engagement ring (with 5000 spare to spend on the wedding band) A refund on a lifetime of sanitary products is equivalent to being able to buy Tiffany's Soleste ring - a brilliant diamond encircled by a double row of bead-set diamonds... with a cool 5K to spare on a complementary wedding ring. Tiffany A Bente 24 boat Doing away with periods for good could get you your own personal Bente boat. Sailing around the coast or making a lifetime of trips to Boots? We know which one wed choose... Bente 25 Iphone 6 Plus handsets Liable to losing your phone? you can buy 25 32G iPhone 6 Plus back up handsets with change to spare. Getty A Tibetan Mastiff and Samoyed puppy (two of the worlds most expensive breeds) 18k will get you two of the most and expensive and coveted breeds in the world - a Tibetan Mastiff can cost up to 7,000 while a thoroughbred Samoyed can set you back 10,000. Getty Minister for Women, Kelly ODwyer told Sky News Australia: Were really delighted that everyones come on board to scrap what is an unfair tax. Millions of women right across the nation will be very thankful for it. Scrapping the 10 per cent tax will cost the government $30 million (16.5 million) a year. The move has been praised by people on social media. Hannah Wolfenden said: Im so happy the Australian government has finally taken away the tax on tampons. Coleen Blomkamp wrote: I cant believe our government has only JUST stopped adding sales tax to tampons. Theres been no GST on condoms, lubricant and Viagra. They were all deemed to be essential but tampons were taxed as luxuries. Fools. It comes after India scrapped its tax on sanitary products in July. T he leader of Myanmar has been stripped of an honorary citizenship given by Canada because she is "complicit" in military atrocities and mass killings against the Rohingya community. Aung San Suu Kyi, the president of Myanmar, also called Burma, has had the citizenship formally revoked after a unanimous vote in the Canadian Senate. The Myanmar regime has been branded genocidal by a UN fact finding mission, which published a report last month on the extent of crimes against the country's Rohingya Muslim population. Army and police personnel "systematically" killed thousands of civilians, levelled hundreds of villages and forced children to stay inside their homes as they were torched and burnt alive. Hundreds of women were raped. Rohingya: Hundreds of thousands of persecuted civilians have fled across the border into Bangladesh / REUTERS It called for top generals to be investigated and prosecuted for genocide. The Senate voted unanimously on Tuesday to strip Ms Suu Kyi of the symbolic honour bestowed on her in 2007, following a similar move by the House of Commons last week. Politicians also recognised that the crimes against humanity in Burma constituted genocide. "We must recognise this atrocity for what it is," said Senator Ratna Omidvar, who introduced the motion to revoke Ms Suu Kyi's citizenship on Tuesday. "It is genocide. We must call it as it is. Ms Suu Kyi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for her fight for democracy in Burma. "At that point she was a champion for change and human rights... The world pinned its hope on her as the shining light and hope for a democratic and peaceful Myanmar," said Ms Omidvar. "As we all now know, that was not to be." Ms Omidvar said Ms Suu Kyi has denied the atrocities, restricted access to international investigators and journalists, defended the military and denied humanitarian aid for the Rohingya. "We need to send a strong signal here in Canada and around the world that if you're an accomplice of genocide, you are not welcome here. Certainly not as an honorary Canadian citizen." Rohingya refugees move across the Naf River as they cross the Myanmar-Bangladesh border in Palong Khali, near Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, November 1, 2017. / Hannah McKay/Reuters UN investigators uncovered heinous crimes against the civilians in northern Myanmar - claimed by the military leadership to be immigrants, terrorists and drug traffickers, as they justified ethnic cleansing, mass gang rape and sexual slavery. Burma's Union minister Kyaw Tint Swe addressed the United Nations on Friday to refute the claims, and said they were "based on narratives and not hard evidence". "We are convinced that armed conflicts can only be ended with political means. "International has been focused on the outflow" of refugees from Bangladesh, he said. "We call on Bangladesh to fulfil it's commitments... to allow without the day the return of verified persons under voluntary safe, and dignified conditions." "The release of this report based on narratives and not on hard evidence will only serve to enflame tensions further." D onald Trump has hit back at claims he engaged in tax schemes that helped his parents dodge millions of dollars in taxes and received $413 million (318 million) from his father. The White House said the claims, detailed in a New York Times report, were misleading and that the US leader had no involvement whatsoever with these matters. But the newspaper reported that much of the presidents fortune came as he helped his parents set up fake corporations with his siblings to disguise millions of dollars in gifts. During his presidential campaign, Mr Trump promoted himself as a self-made real estate mogul who started out with only a "very small" loan from his businessman father, Fred Trump. New Yorks state department for taxation and finance has launched a review of the allegations, saying it is vigorously pursuing all appropriate avenues of investigation. Donald Trump has hit back at the claims made in the New York Times investigation (file image) / AP It is unlikely Mr Trump would face criminal prosecution because the acts were past the statute of limitations, according to tax experts cited in the newspapers report. The findings were based on more than 200 tax returns from the US leaders father, his companies, partnerships and trusts. The presidents personal tax returns were not included. According to the newspaper, the report was also based on interviews with Fred Trumps former employees and advisers and more than 100,000 pages of documents describing the inner workings of his business empire. V ladimir Putin has called former Russian spy Sergei Skripal a traitor and a scumbag as tensions remain high over the Salisbury nerve agent attack. It is the first time the Russian president has directly condemned Mr Skripal, who was left fighting for life after being poisoned with Novichok in March. Speaking at an energy forum in Moscow, Mr Putin accused the West of portraying the ex-double agent as an innocent victim. He said: I see that some of your colleagues are pushing the theory that Mr Skripal was almost some kind of human rights activist. He was simply a spy. A traitor to the motherland. There is such a concept a traitor to the motherland. He was one of those. Asked about sanctions on Russia triggered by the attack, he added: Hes simply a scumbag, thats all. Former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia both survived the nerve agent poisoning Britain has placed the blame squarely on Russia, identifying two suspects who travelled to Salisbury on the day of the attack, but Moscow has denied any role. Mr Putin reiterated Russia's claim that it has nothing to do with the poisoning, and said the former agent was of no interest to the Kremlin since he was tried in Russia and exchanged in a spy swap in 2010. Last month, the two Russians suspected of poisoning Mr Skripal and his daughter Yulia sparked ridicule by claiming they only went to Salisbury to "visit the wonderful city" as tourists. Suspects in Skripal poisoning claim they went to Salisbury to 'visit cathedral' Identifying themselves as Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov, named by British prosecutors as the attempted murderers, the men confirmed they were in Salisbury before the Skripals fell critically ill from ingesting nerve agent Novichok. In remarks branded "laughable" by British MPs, Mr Petrov told Russian channel RT: "Yeah that's us. Our friends had been suggesting for a long time that we visit this wonderful city." "Theres the famous Salisbury Cathedral, famous not only in Europe but in the whole world. Its famous for its 123-metre spire, its famous for its clock, one of the first-ever created in the world that is still working," added Mr Boshirov. Suspect Ruslan Boshirov has recently been identified by the investigative journalism bureau Bellingcat as a decorated GRU Colonel, Anatoliy Chepiga - despite repeated claims from Kremlin that his picture "means nothing to us". A volcano on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi has erupted just five days after the area was left devastated by an earthquake and tsunami. Mount Soputan began emitting ash 6,000 metres (19,600 feet) into the air at 8.47am local time (2:57am BST) on Wednesday morning. The Multiplatform Application for Geohazard and Mitigation and Assessement (MAGMA) confirmed the volcano's eruption on social media. Prior to the eruption, scientists had previously been warning of the volcano's increasingly restless behaviour. No immediate evacuations have been ordered, but there are fears that the volcano has the potential to affect populations miles away. Across the Indonesian island, mass graves are being dug for the 1,340 people known to have died after a 7.5 magnitude earthquake hit on Friday, triggering a tsunami that battered the city of Palu. Indonesia has a population of 250 million people across its various islands and is known for being home to the popular tourist destination of Bali. So is it safe to travel to Indonesia and how will this latest disaster impact the already struggling Sulawesi? Here's everything you need to know: Where is Mount Soputan? Loading.... Mount Soputan is a small stratovolcano standing 1,784m tall and is located in the northern region of Sulawesi Island, hundreds of miles away from the tsunami-hit Palu. Soputan is one of the island's most active volcanoes, having last erupted in 2015. How dangerous is it? Devestation: A quake survivor walks at an area where her house once stood in Lere subdistrict in Palu, Indonesia's Central Sulawesi on October 3, 2018. / AFP/Getty Images Wednesday's eruption status was raised from an alert to a standby 2.5 miles from the summit. Standby status has been put in place, which means the public should avoid the area nearest the volcano and wear masks in the event of an ashfall. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) issued a warning to the affected area, stating: "The community should not have activities in all areas within a 4km radius of the peak of Mount Soputan and within the sectoral expansion area to the west-south-west direction as far as 6.5km from the peak which is a crater opening area to avoid the potential threat of lava and hot clouds." Shortly before its eruption, experts noticed increased seismic and thermal activity in the region in recent weeks. Did the earthquake trigger the eruption? There's no way to tell whether the earthquake triggered the eruption. There have been cases where major earthquakes have taken place shortly before volcanic eruptions, but there's not enough evidence to draw a link between the two. An Indonesian volcanologist told online news site Tempo: "It could be that this earthquake triggered the eruption, but the direct correlation has yet to be seen as there has been an increase in the Mount Soputan activity." Indonesia earthquake and tsunami kills hundreds 1 /59 Indonesia earthquake and tsunami kills hundreds AFP/Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images EPA EPA AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images REUTERS EPA Xinhua / Barcroft Images Xinhua / Barcroft Images REUTERS REUTERS AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images REUTERS REUTERS REUTERS AP REUTERS REUTERS AP AP Reuters AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images EPA Reuters EPA EPA Indonesian rescue workers evacuate the body of a victim of an earthquake Reuters Indonesian rescue workers evacuate the body of a victim of an earthquake Reuters People walk in an area hit by an earthquake in Petabo Reuters Medical team members help patients AFP/Getty Images Houses in ruins after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake EPA AFP/Getty Images ANTARA FOTO AFP/Getty Images EPA AP AFP/Getty Images Reuters Reuters Reuters AFP/Getty Images Reuters Reuters AFP/Getty Images AP What does the eruption mean for Sulawesi? Aid is already struggling to reach the thousands of survivors following the earthquake and tsunami and there are fears that ash clouds from Soputan could hamper rescue efforts even further. In and around Palu, one of the worst hit areas, many villages have been isolated by landslides caused by the earthquake. Around 200,000 people are also in need of urgent help, according to the UN's humanitarian office. Rescue teams have found it hard to reach areas outside the city of Palu. Jens Laerke, from the UN's humanitarian office, said: "There are still large areas of what might be the worst-affected areas that haven't been properly reached, but the teams are pushing, they are doing what they can." How is a volcano formed? Restless: Indonesia's National Agency for Disaster Management (BNPB) shows Soputan volcano erupting ash up to 4,000 metres above the crater. / AFP/Getty Images Volcanoes are formed when magma rises through cracks in the Earth's crust, building up pressure inside the earth. When this pressure is released, magma explodes to the surface causing a volcanic eruption. After several eruptions, the lava cools to form a build up of rock and a volcano forms. Indonesia sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," which means it is prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Is it safe to travel to Indonesia? The Foreign Office has advised against all travel to within 4km of the Mount Agung crater in east Bali and within 7km of the Mount Sinabung crater in Kalo Regency, North Sumatra, due to ongoing volcanic activity. A beach in Thailand made famous by the Leonardo DiCaprio film is to close indefinitely. Authorities in the country announced earlier this year that they were closing Maya Bay on Ko Phi Phi island for four months in a bid to help it recover from the effects of tourism. However following a survey, it was found that in order for the island to fully cover from erosion and pollution, the beach would have to close indefinitely. A statement from the Department of National Parks said: The ecosystem and the beachs physical structure have yet returned to its full condition until natural resources return to normal. The spot on the island was made famous by the 2000 film The Beach, directed by Danny Boyle. Its become a bucket list location for those travelling to Thailand. Crowds of tourists pose for pictures on Maya Bay in Thailand / AP Environmentalists say that heavy traffic from boats and increasing numbers of visitors have damaged the beach and surrounding areas ecosystem. Dr Thon Thamrongnawasawat from Bangkoks Kasetsart University told the South China Morning Post: When I first came here 38 years ago, this place was heaven. This was all coral once but now there is nothing. Up until its closure, the island was seeing up to 5,000 tourists visiting the spot each day. Up to 5,000 tourists visited the beach a day / AP The news comes as the Philippines prepares to reopen Boracay after it also became inundated with tourists. Boracay has been closed for six months and is set to officially reopen on October 26. An environment official said that only 19,000 tourists will be allowed in Boracay on any given day. Russian President Vladimir Putin will soon to visit India to attend the annual India-Russia summit in New Delhi. Before this visit, the top foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov said that India will sign a deal with Russia to buy the S-400 surface-to-air missile system from Russia. As per the reports, the deal will be a sign between 4th October to 5th October when the Russian President will visit the country. To purchase the advanced missile systems, it will cost India over $5 billion. According to the Ushakov, The key feature of the Russian presidents visit to India will be the signing of the agreement to deliver S-400 air defence systems. The value of the contract will be more than $5 billion. However, it will be the first official meeting between India and Russia on the signing of the deal. Prime Minister and Narendra Modi will meet Russian President for bilateral talks on 5th October. There are also the reports that India will also sign one more deal during the visit and might purchase four frigates from Russia. Why India is buying S-400 missile system? It is to be said that the S-400 missile system is one of the most advanced warfare technology in the world today. It has the capability to track over 300 targets at a once and can shoot down 40 targets in one go over a range of 400 kilometres. It is also said that the sensitive radars of the missile system can detect even stealth aircraft which are impossible for other systems to detect. Watch Video: C hris Hemsworth has revealed that he doesnt want his children to take wealth for granted when they grow up. The father-of-three opened up on fears he shares with wife Elsa Pataky, that his kids wont appreciate the value of money. Speaking to GQ Australia, he explained: I feel gross about it [my wealth]. I remember saving up for a surfboard when I was younger. The surfboard was 600 bucks and I saved up for a whole year with Dads help. I didnt even want to surf on it for fear of damaging it. It taught me so many lessons about appreciation and working hard for something. When I think about my kids, I dont want them to miss that joy. He continued: Elsa and I talk a lot about how we instil that same appreciation and respect for things. I dont want them to feel like theyre privileged in any way. Chris Hemsworth dancing with kids on Instagram The fact that we have money and their parents are famous, that somehow theyre special, that scares me because we grew up with no money. The 35-year-old added that he went into acting in a bid to help his family. Hemsworth said: I did not want to be broke, like wed been broke when we grew up, I wanted to take care of my parents and my family. The Thor star shares three children with Pataky, India, Sasha and Tristan. J ohnny Depp has opened up about Amber Heards domestic abuse claims in a candid interview, vowing to never stop fighting them. The Hollywood superstar, whose divorce from Heard was finalised last year, spoke to British GQ for their November issue about the allegations that he was violent towards Heard in 2016. Depp said: To harm someone you love? As a kind of bully? No, it didnt, it couldnt even sound like me. So, initially, I just kept my mouth shut, you know? I knew it was going to stick on me and it would get weirder. But of course I care what my family and my kids think []. And worse than that, to take away future earnings that are for my kids, you know? I do this s*** for my kids, man. How could someone, anyone, come out with something like that against someone, when theres no truth to it whatsoever? Im sure it wasnt easy for my 14-year-old boy to go to school, you know what I mean? With people going, Hey, look at this magazine, man. What, your dad beats up chicks or something? Why did he have to go through that? Why did my daughter have to go through that? Divorced: Amber Heard and Johnny Depp / Alison Buck/Getty Images The 55-year-old continued: I will never stop fighting. Ill never stop. Theyd have to f****** shoot me. An episode like this takes time to get over. Its a mourning for someone you thought was Depp concluded the interview by declaring that he wants the truth, calling it his biggest obsession in the world. Greg Williams / British GQ Depp also called Hollywood a vile f****** circus and admitted that he knew he was never going to be Cinderella in the industry but revealed the accusations against him turned him into Quasimodo. He added: The only thing that I could do was know what I still know. Ultimately, the truth will come out in all of this and I will be standing on the right side of the roaring rapids. I hope other people will be too. I know the truth and if I had to walk away from all of it today, the job, the career, all of it, and go toodle-oo, then ne. K im Kardashian has told how eldest child North is yet to fully embrace the fact she has younger siblings. Kardashian told how the five-year-old often tries to stop brother Saint, two, and eight-month-old baby sister Chicago from entering her room. Speaking to Ashley Graham on her podcast, she said: North acts like an only child at all times. I think shes a little confused. Shes beyond jealousy now. Shes just like, Its my world. She said to me the other day, Mum we just need to have another baby brother so that Saint can just leave me alone so the girls can be on this side of the house and the boys can be on that side of the house. The TV personality added: She has a sign on her door that says No boys allowed. She wont even let Saint [set] foot in her room. If he does or if hes with me and I have to take care of both of them its like full war. Its so funny, and hes just the nicest human being on the planet. Today hes like, Mom, youre my best friend so I tried to get him on video, so I was like, What did you say? And he said, I love you so much, Mom. I was like, Even better! The comments come after Kardashian opened to Graham about how husband Kanye West wrote her a cheque for $1 million (769,000) in a bid to stop her promoting another brand. North West asks Kim Kardashian why she's famous The TV personality has told how her other half asked her to turn down a lucrative offer from an unnamed fashion brand and gave her the large sum as a 'thank you'. Kardashian explained: He's like the cutest. A brand offered me a million dollars to do a post on some of their clothing and they typicallyI don't want to say who the brand isbut they typically knock off Yeezy. She added: Mother's Day was, like, the next week. Mother's Day comes and he happened to be recording out of town and I get my flowers and then I get an envelope delivered to the door. I opened the envelope and it was a million dollar check with a note saying thank you for always supporting me and not posting. T witter usage is up this morning as people are turning to the social media site to complain about Instagram going down. According to the site DownDetector, Instagram has been down since around 8am this morning across the US and UK at the moment. People hoping to use the photo-sharing app have reported problems with the News Feed not loading. Instead of seeing a feed full of images, people are seeing empty profiles and a message that says cannot refresh feed. Other users are reporting problems with logging in and the website not responding. A spokesperson for Instagram told the Standard: "We're aware that some users are having trouble accessing Instagram. Were working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible". Social media users have been flocking to other sites to express their frustration at not being able to look at dog photos or #OOTD selfies. Even brands were hoping to get in on the #Instagramdown action, with Pizza Hut posting a tongue-in-cheek image of a pizza as part of the blackout. At the moment, it is unclear what is causing the outage, though it will probably end up being a technical fault. Instagram is currently undergoing a rough period. Its two founders recently stepped down in the pursuit of other creative projects and its parent company, Facebook, is reeling from a major hack which has affected around 90 million accounts. The hack related to access tokens, which is when you use your Facebook account to log into a different app, such as Instagram or Tinder. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 3) Social media went abuzz on Wednesday as Facebook Inc.'s Instagram (IG) crashed, causing uproar among millions of its users worldwide. The photo sharing app, which caters to more than a billion monthly active users, went down around 3:15 p.m. Philippine time, indicating an error in the users' mobile feeds after attempts to refresh them. Meanwhile, the message "5xx server error" appeared on IG's desktop version. Netizens took to micro-blogging site Twitter their reactions on IG being down, with some users thinking that their phones or internet connection was having a problem. Twitter user Amelia San Jose said, "I can't refresh..akala ko phone ko lng may prob (I thought it's only my phone that has a problem)." Another Twitter user had the same issue, saying "I thought there's problem on my wifi." Meanwhile, a netizen thought there may be a data breach that took place in the app. "Baka may nagnakaw na naman ng user information (Somebody might have stolen user information again)," the user said. It can be recalled that Facebook forcibly logged out around 50 million users on Friday because of a hack that allowed attackers to access personal data. The hashtag #instagramdown became a worldwide trend on Twitter. After about an hour, IG went back online around 4:20 p.m. Philippine time. Facebook has yet to comment on the issue. "5xx" refers to a series of HyperText Transfer Protocol status codes that refer to failure on the part of the servers to display requested data, including photos, videos, sounds and texts on the web. Balochistan National Congress (BNC), a Washington D.C. based Baloch body, has strongly condemned Pakistan's Foreign Minister Makhdoom Mehmood Shah Qureshi over his "hypocritical" remarks at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) Session. The BNC said, Qureshi while speaking at the UNGA's 73rd Session in New York had called the Indian atrocities against the Kashmiri people unjust and unacceptable, but he fell short to mention Pakistan's illegal and unjust occupation of Balochistan and the Pakistan army's atrocities against the innocent and defenseless Baloch people in the occupied Balochistan. "On one side Qureshi is shedding crocodile tears for the Kashmiri people, but at the same time, he has closed his eyes over Pakistan's illegal, immoral and unjust occupation of Balochistan and Pakistan army's atrocities against the innocent and defenseless Baloch citizens in the occupied Balochistan. What a hypocrite, two-faced and double standard person he is," said Dr. Baloch, the president of BNC. "Under what international laws Pakistan continues to occupy Balochistan and exploits its natural resources against the will and mandate of Baloch people?" he asked. The BNC president further said that "it is time for Pakistan to end the illegal, immoral and unjust occupation of Balochistan and leave Balochistan peacefully without any further bloodshed and violence." "Pakistan is in violation of international laws for illegally occupying Balochistan against the will and mandate of Baloch people and Pakistan has no right to stay in Balochistan but needs to peacefully withdraw its forces from the occupied Balochistan and Balochistan's sovereign status as an independent and free country must be restored according to the international laws," said Dr. Baloch. He also asked the world community and world leaders to support the struggle of Baloch people in their fight for freedom and justice in the occupied Balochistan against the "illegal occupation of their motherland and exploitation of their natural resources by Pakistan, Iran and China". He asked the Baloch militants to shun the path of militancy and violence and use only peaceful means of struggle to secure Balochistan for the Baloch people. The BNC president said, "BNC only believe in peaceful means of struggle and is against the violence, terrorism and extremism in its all forms and shapes". (PTI) Countries & Areas Search for country or area A Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan B Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burma Burundi C Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Costa Rica Cote dIvoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czechia D Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic E Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia F Fiji Finland France G Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana H Haiti Holy See Honduras Hungary I Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy J Jamaica Japan Jordan K Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan L Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg M Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique N Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria North Korea North Macedonia Norway O Oman P Pakistan Palau Palestinian Territories Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Q Qatar R Republic of the Congo Romania Russia Rwanda S Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Sweden Switzerland Syria T Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu U Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom Uruguay Uzbekistan V Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Y Yemen Z Zambia Zimbabwe Prime Minister Viorica Dancila on Wednesday asked European Commission First Vice-President Frans Timmermans to confide in the observance of the rule of law in Romania, pointing out that the Romanian authorities will take into account the recommendations of the Venice Commission. "Mr. First Vice-President Timmermans, we will certainly take into account the recommendations of the Venice Commission. Today, the Justice Minister, accompanying me here, will go to the Venice Commission. Romania is a pro-European country and it will certainly not stray from the pro-European road and this is a forme colleague of yours telling you so. Please confide in Romania and in the pro-European path and in the observance of the rule of law in my country," Dancila told the Wednesday debate in the European Parliament tackling the situation in Romania. The Deputies' Chamber rejected on Wednesday the simple motion on Finance tabled by the Liberals (the National Liberal Party -PNL) called "'Dancila, Valcov, Teodorovici triple is smothering public administration in Romania." There were recorded 97 votes in favour, 157 against and 24 abstentions. Foreign Affairs Minister Teodor Melescanu on Tuesday had a meeting with EU's chief negotiator for Brexit Michel Barnier, while on a visit to Bucharest, on which occasion the Romanian diplomat assured him that the negotiating team enjoys Romania's confidence and support. According to a Romanian Foreign Ministry release, Barnier made a presentation on the stage of negotiations for Brexit and the prospects for their future. The European official noted the very good collaboration between the structure he is leading and Romania. In his turn, Melescanu assured Barnier that the negotiating team enjoys Romania's confidence and support, especially in the context in which Romania will take over in the first semester of 2019 the Presidency of the Council of the EU.Melescanu underscored it is essential for the common interests to agree on a Brexit agreement allowing an orderly and predictable exit of the UK from the EU.Moreover, the Romanian chief diplomat conveyed that Romania believes necessary to maintain the unity of the 27 member states in respect to the principles and guidelines agreed inside the EU for negotiations.Melescanu also noted Romania's special interest in the status of the EU citizens living in the UK after Brexit, as there is a significant Romanian community in the UK as well. He appreciated the progress made by the negotiations, mostly in this chapter and stressed that Romania wants that all its citizens residents in the UK be able to go on living, working and studying in the same conditions as so far after Brexit.Melescanu said Romania wants to protect the integrity of the Single Market and the indivisibility of the four fundamental freedoms. At the same time, he underscored that it is important to maintain a close relationship between the EU and the UK, based on a balance between rights and obligations, after Brexit as well. Ambassador of Germany in Bucharest Cord Meier-Klodt stated on Tuesday that unity in diversity "is one of the most beautiful distinctive features of modern Romania," which would deserve to be celebrated in the Centennial Year. "I believe that unity in diversity is one of the most beautiful distinctive features of modern Romania. I believe that it deserves to be celebrated in the context of this special year - the Centennial Year," Cord Meier-Klodt stated at an event organised in Bucharest on the occasion of the German Unity Day. In the German Ambassador's view, it's worth celebrating the fact that modern Romania has successfully passed through an entire century of huge and catastrophic challenges "as a unitary, multiethnic, multilingual and multi-religious country." "Actually, a small early Europe, including a significant German component," Cord Meier-Klodt stated.Furthermore, Germany's Ambassador in Bucharest told the guests of the event, including President Klaus Iohannis who was also in attendance, that he is very grateful for celebrating the unity achieved by the German people."I am very grateful that we can celebrate today unity, the unity achieved by the German people (...) on 3 October 1990, just one year after the falling of the Berlin Wall. In fact, a unity in diversity reflects the profoundly federal and diverse nature of my country. 'Unity in diversity' is also the fundamental motto at European level, an objective for whose consolidation we are struggling day by day together with our partners, in a world that became increasingly more complex and difficult," Ambassador Cord Meier-Klodt stated. Justice Minister Tudorel Toader stated that First Vice-President of the European Commission (EC) Frans Timmermans said it clearly during a meeting he had on Tuesday in Strasbourg with Romania's delegation, led by Prime Minister Viorica Dancila, "that the issue of article 7 is out of the question." "The First Vice-President of the European Commission told, with subject and predicate, that the issue of article 7 is out of the question, its enactment is out of the question because Romania is in another hypothesis, a situation other than Hungary or Poland. Therefore, I repeat, the First Vice-President said very clearly: this issue is out of the question," Tudorel Toader told Antena 3 private television station. In Toader's view, the meeting with the First Vice-President of the European Commission was "constructive," voicing hope that it will also continue on that note on Wednesday."I say it was a very constructive meeting. An open meeting, a debate, a principled and correct dialogue. Why do I say this? There was no question of any reproach from one side or the other. Firstly, it was emphasised the need of a constant dialogue, the collaboration between Romania's Government, Romania and the Commission, through the Commission's First Vice-President, because, in the end, we have a common journey, a goal, a shared obligation and desire this European construction, the strengthening of the rule of law, generally speaking," the Minister stated.He mentioned that among the topics tackled within the meeting there were also the irreversibility of the European legislative process and the European path, the guarantee of fundamental rights and freedoms, the protocols between intelligence services and various judicial authorities, the implementation of the recommendations of the Co-operation and Verification Mechanism [CVM], the justice laws, as well as the democratic standards established by the Venice Commission and the preparations for Romania to take over the rotating Presidency of the Council of the Union.Toader was keen to point out that Romania's Government didn't go to Strasbourg in order to "receive indications.""The relation between Romania as a member state of the European Union and the Commission is established through the accession documents. We have this Co-operation and Verification Mechanism and I reconfirm that, at a certain point, I asked the Commission to explain the 12 recommendations so that we know what we need to do, what we have to fulfill. Let nobody thing that (...) we went to Strasbourg and got instructions, directions. We have a constant dialogue, I repeat, a constructive one, we help each other, we cooperate, the Commission and Romania's Government collaborate, but we don't go to receive indications, advices and points," Justice Minister stated. Romania's Justice Minister Tudorel Toader explained on Wednesday in Strasbourg the course of justice legislation and amendments to the Criminal Code and Code of Criminal Procedure, saying that among the solutions ruled unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court of Romania (CCR) about justice legislation none of them was designed by the Ministry of Justice (MJ). Toader said that, initially, the Ministry of Justice drew up two drafts in which amendments to the laws of justice were proposed. "We also made the 18-page draft that was to request the Venice Commission's opinion - October 25, 2017 - the special commission had called for the draft we made, and I was asked to make it available. I made it available in an electronic format. (...) It remained with the commission; the commission divided the draft in three, made three bills for amendment - 303, 304, 317 (...)," Toader told a news conference.According to him, the same thing happened with the criminal codes."Similarly, the ministry drafted a bill to amend the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure in line with the Constitutional Court's rulings; another draft amending the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure in line with the extended confiscation directive, and the directive on the presumption of innocence. They passed through the government, and the government developed those projects that we had drafted and the government approved them. What I would say personally is that none among the legislative solutions that were ruled unconstitutional by the CCR about the three draft laws to amend the laws of justice originated with the Ministry of Justice," said Toader. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila has repeatedly lied in Brussels and "promoted in the European Parliament speeches of the criminals" which is "a step of unprecedented gravity," leader of the Liberal deputies Raluca Turcan said on Wednesday, adding that the only solution would be the resignation of PM Dancila, according to Agerpres. "Mrs Dancila posed in a criminals' defender in Brussels, she lied repeatedly, she placed Romania not only outside the Constitution, as she usually does in the country, but also outside the EU integration framework. In order to halt this disaster, the only solution would be for Mrs Dancila to resign. If this doesn't happen, because she is a mere puppet of Mr Liviu Dragnea [the head of the Social Democratic Party, main at rule, ed. n.] then a majority should be molded to stop this government in Parliament. These lies repeated in front of the international partners harm Romania, put us in the peril to become the problem-state of the EU and at the same time, put Romania's citizens in the situation to suffer the financial consequences from the EU. An act of paramount responsibility is needed and we publicly call on Premier Dancila to perform this gesture of responsibility - to resign," Turcan said at Parliament's seat. The Liberal Member of the Parliament asserted that the National Liberal Party (PNL) demands publicly that PM Dancila should put a halt to the assault on the state institutions."At the same time, we publicly call on premier Dancila that she stop the assault within the country on the state institutions, the assault on the independent media, to put an end to the pressure against the civil society and allow the parliamentary opposition to manifest itself within the legal and constitutional framework. Rules are invented every day, pretexts are found to amputate the public debate," added Raluca Turcan.According to her, the prime minister's speech in the European Parliament was a lie from start to finish."I fear the worst should this gov't further represent Romania's interests internally and internationally. Today, in Brussels the prime minister of this country's gov't lied repeatedly, promoted in the EP speeches of the criminals, this is an approach of an unprecedented gravity. I've never heard in the EP speeches that have no connection whatsoever with reality, that vilify the free citizens and endanger the individual security of their own citizens. To lie in connection with the so-called reforms in Justice, to lie in connection with the visible repression of the peaceful protest of 10 August, to lie in connection with the Gendarmerie's moves, to lie in connection with everything you do in your country, but have no power to admit it, it means in fact that you dishonor your country and put your citizens in danger. (...) It was an enumeration of false assertions. Rarely was I given to see a prime minister with a speech that was a lie from start to finish," Turcan added. Romania's Minister-delegate for European Affairs Victor Negrescu voiced his hope, in a statement for AGERPRES, that the debate on Wednesday in the European Parliament, which tackles our country's situation, won't be "a new Romanian-Romanian conflict." "Today's debate is about Romania and I hope the discussion in the plenary sitting will not be a new Romanian-Romanian conflict, direct or through the European political groups. I am convinced that the Executive with present with dignity, defending the country's image and reputation, inviting, at the same time, to an honest dialogue and a good cooperation both at European partners level and internally, in order for Romania not to be a topic of some political disputes in the middle of an electoral campaign for the European Parliament, which is predicted to be more and more fiery," Victor Negrescu stated. On Wednesday, Prime Minister Viorica Dancila participates in the debates of the European Parliament tackling the situation of Romania.On Tuesday, PM Dancila had a meeting in Strasbourg with First Vice-President of the European Commission Frans Timmermans, context in which the Romanian official underscored the necessity of a tighter collaboration between Romania and the European Commission during our country's Presidency of the Council of the EU and expressed the wish that Wednesday's debate in the European Parliament be well-supported and constructive. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila assured President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani, within a meeting taking place in Strasbourg, that Romania's Justice laws aim the alignment to the European legislation and they were made in full transparency and dialogue with European partners, including with the Venice Commission. According to a release of the Gov't, the two officials focused on aspects related to the preparation and exercise by Romania of the Presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2019. The PM reconfirmed her commitment and that of Romania's Government for ensuring a good preparation of the Romanian Presidency, as well as for consolidating the European project. Moreover, it was also highlighted that the European Parliament is an essential partner for Romania in the preparation process of taking over the Presidency and plays an important role in deepening the European construction or in bringing the citizens close to the Union institutions.Furthermore, the two officials carried out a constructive discussion regarding Romania's reforms in the justice area."Prime Minister Viorica Dancila reconfirmed that the amendments brought to the justice laws aim the alignment to the European legislation and were made in full transparency and dialogue with European partners, including the Venice Commission. In this context, the PM reconfirmed the openness for continuing the dialogue with this institution. Moreover, the Executive head also brought up the secret protocols topic concluded between the intelligence services and various judicial institutions of Romania, pointing out that, for Romania's Government, the observance of the citizens' rights is a constant concern," the Gov't release mentions. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila told the European Parliament on Wednesday that in the Co-operation and Verification Mechanism (CVM) reports she hadn't seen anything about breeching the human rights and the secret protocols between the intelligence services and the justice institutions in Romania. "It is legitimate to ask how did the CVM defend the Romanian citizens from the serious violation of their rights. The CVM reports spoke a lot about institutions, magistrates appointments, the fight against corruption. It is very well. But I haven't seen anything about human rights breeching, the secret protocols between the intelligence services and the justice institutions," Dancila told the debate in the European Parliament on Romania. According to the PM, based on this protocols "millions of Romanians were monitored by the intelligence services in the name of the fight against corruption.""The are court decisions showing how evidence was forged, how the transcripts of some wiretaps were modified to create accountabilities or how witnesses were blackmailed in order to falsely testify. None of these things are in the CVM reports. (...) This means, in other words, that this mechanism failed its mission for which it was created," the PM said.At the same time, Dancila asked to be told who drew up the CVM reports and omitted "these unconceivable realities" in the EU."I am officially asking to be told who drew up the CVM reports, who supplied the data and omitted, out of carelessness or out of ill-faith, these unconceivable realities in the European Union. If we are honest, we need to start from these serious abuses, because they are taking place on the territory of the European Union," Dancila also said. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila said on Wednesday in the European Parliament debate that Romania's new Justice Laws "restore judges their independence." "The new Justice Laws restore judges their independence. No political decision-maker intervenes in appointing and dismissing judges. The independence is total, in no way restricted and I assure you that we have good faith and will take into account all the recommendations of the Venice Commission," Dancila told the plenary sitting of the European Parliament debating the situation of our country. According to the PM, over the past four years, over 300 magistrates have been investigated by the National Anticorruption Directorate (DNA)."The Venice Commission said that, during the Soviet system, the Prosecutor's Office represented a powerful means to control the judicial power. Over the last four years, over 300 magistrates have been investigated by the DNA. Basically, half of Romania's magistrates had criminal cases, through which, they were probably influenced to rule solutions established outside the court room. It's not me who says it, Romania's magistracy associations say it with a lot of concern. Through such counterfeit cases there have been removed from office one judge of the Constitutional Court, one Vice-President of the Superior Council of Magistracy, four judges of the High Court, several judges of higher courts, one Prosecutor General, one chief of the High Prosecutor's Office. Finally, they all have been acquitted or their cases have been closed, but they have been removed [from office]," Dancila explained.In her view, there is "a good side" of the debate in the European Parliament."There is still a good side of this meeting. Today I informed all the officials about the abuses in Romania. From now on, these things cannot be ignored, there will be no talk about Romania's Justice without also talking about these abuses, only if a political game is carried out, without any connection to the Justice. Ask yourselves why these things have been hidden from you. Why you weren't told anything? Ask yourselves these questions prior to throwing the rock against Romania," Viorica Dancila stated. Romania's Prime Minister Viorica Dancila told a plenary session of the European Parliament on Wednesday that the Romanian Gendarmerie is accused of intervening on August 10 in Bucharest in an unauthorised rally, saying that she can in no way accept this body being accused of actions and procedures practiced all over Europe. "About the rally of August 10 - (...) I see that the Romanian Gendarmerie is being accused for having intervened in an unauthorised rally against violent demonstrators who were trying to occupy the government building. (...) I cannot accept in any way the Romanian Gendarmerie being blamed for actions and procedures practiced all over Europe," Dancila told a debate on Romania hosted by the European Parliament on Wednesday. Romania's Prime Minister Viorica Dancila told a plenary session of the European Parliament on Wednesday that justice must be fair for the citizens. "For whom do we want to build a viable justice system in Romania? (...) We must have fair justice for the citizens (...) Justice must be a guarantee that the civil rights are respected," Dancila told a debate on Romania hosted by the European Parliament. Romania's Defence Minister Mihai Fifor is attending a meeting of NATO defence ministers Wednesday and Thursday, a meeting that provides an opportunity to assess the NATO summit of July 2018 and demonstrate NATO member states'commitment to implementing the decisions made at the summit, informs the Ministry of National Defense (MApN). On Wednesday, the ministers will look into Georgia's progress with implementing the Substantial NATO-Georgia Package (SNGP) and discuss burden sharing in the light of the conclusions of the recent summit. The ministerial meeting on Thursday will be mainly devoted to assessing the state of implementation of NATO's deterrence and defence posture.The ministers will also discuss military mobility, countering hybrid and cyber threats with officials from the European Union, Finland and Sweden.The meeting will end with a session of the Nuclear Planning Group (NPG).On the side-lines of the meeting, Fifor is scheduled to meet his counterparts from Canada, the UK, Italy, Spain and Turkey, as well Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) Curtis M. Scaparrotti. Chairman of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats (ALDE) and Senate President Calin Popescu Tariceanu announced that the MPs of his formation were caught off-guard by a series of amendments brought to the offshore draft law and requested the Ministry of Finance to present evaluations that show the impact the proposed amendments have. He added that the ALDE deputies had a "feeling of uncertainty concerning the solidity of the proposals", because the amendments brought to the draft law were not accompanied by "any sort sort of explanatory note" concerning the budgetary implications. The Senate President said that the ALDE deputies want to vote while informed and to be able to explain to the Romanians the implications of this vote.Deputies' Chamber Committees for Industries, Budget and Public Administration approved on Tuesday the amendments to the offshore law with 31 votes "in favour", 10 "against" and 4 abstentions.Most of the adopted amendments belong to the Social Democratic Party (PSD, major at rule, ed.n.) group.The report with the adopted amendments is due to enter the debates of the Deputies' Chamber plenum, a decision-making forum in this case. Secretary of state for Euro-Atlantic bilateral and strategic affairs with Romania's Foreign Ministry (MAE) George Ciamba on Tuesday welcomed visiting Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Transformation Manfred Nielson, according to MAE. Their discussion focused on NATO's current priorities as pertaining to the decisions made at the NATO Brussels summit this year. Ciamba hailed the important progress made with adapting NATO's command structure and the increased role of the Allied Command Transformation (ACT) following the process. He highlighted the role of this command in raising the Alliance's strategic anticipation and developing modern forces and capabilities to ensure an effective response to all current threats and a proper alignment of NATO to rapid developments in new technologies.Ciamba presented Romania's assessments of the regional security situation and stressed the importance Romania attaches to the full implementation of decisions on strengthening the NATO enhanced forward presence on its eastern flank as part of adapting the alliance to a new strategic context. He also referenced the importance of deepening NATO relations with partner countries and welcomed the active role of ACT in their education and training relations with such countries, with beneficial effects both in terms of strengthening national defence capabilities and increasing interoperability with NATO.The EU-NATO relationship was another important item on the agenda, with both officials stressing the importance of further developing co-operation between the two organisations, especially with regard to defence planning, increasing the resilience of the member states and partner countries. Ciamba said that the deepening the NATO-EU strategic partnership will be a priority for Romania when holding the presidency of the EU Council in the first half of 2019.Nielson thanked Romania for its global contributions to NATO efforts, as well as for support provided to ACT carrying out its duties, including through the provision of qualified human resources. Although the September 30, 2018 name-change referendum in Macedonia, which was supposed to set that ex-Yugoslav federal republic on a path to (certain) NATO and (blithely promised but much less certain) EU membership, failed miserably, with only 36.91% of the voters turning out, well short of the 50% + 1 necessary for it to be valid one would never know it from the reactions of its Western proponents and impatient beneficiaries. Indeed, a new term may be needed to adequately describe the reactions of the key pillars representing the reliquiae reliquiarum of the Western-led post-Cold War unipolar moment. Fake news simply doesnt do them justice. Fake reality anyone? The US State Department was firmly in denial, releasing the following statement: The United States welcomes the results of the Republic of Macedonias September 30 referendum, in which citizens expressed their support for NATO and European Union (EU) membership by accepting the Prespa Agreement between Macedonia and Greece. The United States strongly supports the Agreements full implementation, which will allow Macedonia to take its rightful place in NATO and the EU, contributing to regional stability, security, and prosperity. As Macedonias parliament now begins deliberation on constitutional changes, we urge leaders to rise above partisan politics and seize this historic opportunity to secure a brighter future for the country as a full participant in Western institutions. EU Commissioner for European Neighborhood and Enlargement Negotiations Johannes Hahn wasnt to be outdone in his contempt for the 63% of the Macedonian deplorables who stayed home in order to voice their disagreement with renouncing their perceived national identity and country name (it was to become Northern Macedonia) in exchange for the double joy of a) becoming NATOs cannon-fodder in its increasingly hazardous game of chicken with Russia and b) the EUs newest debt-serfs: Referendum in Macedonia: I congratulate those citizens who voted in today's consultative referendum and made use of their democratic freedoms. With the very significant "yes" vote, there is broad support to the #Prespa Agreement + to the country's #Euroatlantic path. I now expect all political leaders to respect this decision and take it forward with utmost responsibility and unity across party lines, in the interest of the country. He was seconded the following day, in a joint statement, by Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the EU Commission. Understandably, as the most direct public stakeholder, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg was particularly (hyper)active. As the disappointing results began to roll in, Stoltenberg went into immediate damage control, tweeting: I welcome the yes vote in Macedonia referendum. I urge all political leaders & parties to engage constructively & responsibly to seize this historic opportunity. #NATOs door is open, but all national procedures have to be completed. He reinforced his delusional missive the next day, releasing a similar statement co-signed by EU President Donald Tusk. And the day after, during a news conference, Stoltenberg even offered lightning-quick NATO accession to the unwilling Macedonians January 2019, to be exact if they would just be so kind as to urgently implement the very agreement that they had just so emphatically rejected. When NATO says it promotes democratic values it means it! But that wasnt the end of the democracy mongering surrounding what may well prove to be NATOs, the EUs and the rest of the end-of-history Wests Balkan Waterloo. For example, the EU Parliaments Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats, although regretting that the turnout was less than 50%, nevertheless hailed the referendums results and call(ed) on the opposition to respect the expressed will of the majority [sic] of voters. The Groups leader, Udo Bullmann, while also maintaining that, somehow, a voter turnout of under 37% still represented a majority, additionally used the occasion to chastise Macedonias President for having the nerve to call for a boycott of the referendum (he committed the crimethink of referring to it as historical suicide during his UN General Assembly address), as well as to decry what else? reports about Russian interference in the electoral process. It goes without saying that Bullmann offered absolutely zero proof for his assertion. On the other hand, according to numerous media reports, as September 30 approached, while no high Russian official was to be seen anywhere in the vicinity, a veritable procession of Western political bigwigs made the pilgrimage to Skopje in order to reveal to the natives their true best interests: Sebastian Kurz, Mad Dog Mattis, the indefatigable Stoltenberg, Federica Mogherini, Johannes Hahn, Angela Merkel. No meddling there, obviously Speaking of Angela Merkel, she also joined her fellow Western democrats show of unanimous disdain for the Macedonian voters majority opinion, urging the country to push ahead with the implementation of the majority-rejected accord, citing voters overwhelming support [sic], and arguing through the mouth of her spokesman that the required 50% + 1 turnout was actually very high, as voter registers purportedly included many people who had long since left the country. Coincidentally (?), the same argument was used by Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias, who opined that the yes votes cast in the referendum do, in fact, represent the majority despite the low turnout because Macedonia does not have the 1.8 million voters entered into its electoral rolls but just 1.2 million since 300,000 people have left the country since the voter lists were last updated 20 years ago. The fallacy of his reality-challenged claim is easily exposed if we just take a glance at the results of Macedonias last parliamentary elections (December 2016), in which voter turnout was just under 1.2 million (1,191,832 to be exact) or, officially, 66.79%. If we were to believe Kotzias and Merkel (who lodged no objections at the time), that would have meant that the turnout for the 2016 elections had been 99% a figure that would make any totalitarian dictator blush with envy. On the other hand, since those elections did produce the desired result, enabling the current heavily pro-NATO/EU government led by Zoran Zaev to be formed, that automatically made them valid in the eyes of the high priests of democracy in Brussels, Berlin, London and Washington. Needless to say, Zaev joined his Western patrons charade, hailing the referendum as a democratic success, and announcing that he would seek the Macedonian Parliament's support to amend the constitution and get the agreement with Greece ratified (according to the so-called Prespa Agreement, the Macedonian Parliament must adopt the necessary constitutional amendments by the end of 2018) so that the Greek Parliament can do the same, which would seal the deal. However, Zaev and his Albanian political partners are currently well short of the necessary two-thirds majority (reportedly, they can count on 71 deputies, or 9 short of the needed 80), and will have to call early elections if they dont soon succeed in securing it. Yet, let it not go unsaid that Zaev was singing a rather different tune prior to the referendum, assuring that citizens will make the decision, and that Parliament would vote on the necessary constitutional changes only if the referendum is successful. But that was then, when confidence was still high that the usual combination of Western pressure, money and overwhelming domination of the media spectrum would get the job done. And then reality struck on September 30 Still, amidst all the faux cheer and public displays of confidence of the pro-NATO/EU crowd, a palpable sense of unease hangs in the air. As a Deutsche Welle opinion piece put it, the low voter turnout for Macedonia's referendum is a bad starting point for the country's future development. And, according to DW in Serbian, a Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung commentary warned that politicians who otherwise ceaselessly talk of democracy as a special value should not call on the parliament in Skopje to accept the voting results. In other words, Macedonias people (read a large majority of the majority Slavic population) have voted with their feet and rejected the agreement, and no new parliamentary election, no matter the results, can change that unpleasant-but-immutable fact. That alone will delegitimize any Western-led effort to manufacture consent by ramming the agreement through the present or future Parliament although, as we know, NATO doesnt put too much stock in referenda anyway, while the EU is not averse to making citizens vote as many times as needed to obtain the right result. But the West has lost more than just legitimacy in Macedonia it has damaged its reputation, perhaps irretrievably. In the words of former presidential advisor Cvetin Chilimanov, The West has humiliated us Macedonians have rejected this media, psychological, political and propaganda aggression against the people, and thats the tragedy of these days, that a large percentage of a people that had been genuinely oriented towards the West has changed its mind and stopped looking at the West as something democratic, something progressive and successful That is the reason for the boycott. Pressure was applied against Macedonia, a country that had always been open to ties with the West, but which did not want to make this disgusting compromise and humiliate itself before the neighboring countries, before Western countries. We did not understand why that humiliation was needed so that we might become a member of Europe. Whats worst, perhaps that is now the thinking of a silent majority of the people, that they wont forget this insult and this attack on Macedonia. Photo: Twitter Much has been said about the potential dangers of a cyber war. This type of attack could be formidably destructive and is extremely difficult to track to its source. Superiority in this domain offers a great advantage, making it possible to knock out the enemys critical infrastructure sites and inflicting damage comparable to a massive nuclear attack. Just imagine the electricity grids, one of the softer targets, out of commission and all the lights out and the computers dead! In 2016 the North Atlantic Alliance officially declared cyberspace the fourth domain of war. NATO is beefing up its cybersecurity and plans to develop an offensive cyber potential. The bloc has regularly conducted a Cyber Coalition exercise ever since 2008. In 2017, NATO defense ministers agreed to set up a Cyber Operations Center to integrate the growing cyber warfare capabilities for both offensive and defensive operations. The new unit will be an operational complement to NATOs Tallinn-based Cooperative Cyber Defense Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE), which was established in 2008 to act as a hub for NATOs cyber defense, and it is growing more powerful as more members of the bloc join the project. Added to that is the alliances network operations center and computer emergency response teams (CERTs). Exercises, such as Locked Shield 2018, are held regularly. The fictional foe is always Russia. In April, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), alongside the UKs National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), issued a joint alert about malicious cyber activity carried out by the Russian government. All these moves have been made at a time when the Western media is busy launching attacks aimed at painting Russia as a villain. To be sure, Moscow is being accused of hacking and other misdeeds, but what if it was a non-state actor who was responsible? The US sanctions and whatever else is being done under the auspices of NATO all those efforts will go down the drain, with the real perpetrator going scot-free! Attacks will happen again. On Sept. 14, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated in his interview with Axios that the alliance might invoke Article 5 on collective defense, if it decides that Russia has carried out a cyberattack against one of its members. On Sept. 20, the UK announced its decision to step up cyber warfare efforts against Russia, with the Ministry of Defense and GCHQ jointly creating a new 250m joint task force of up to 2,000 digital warriors. The new unit would represent a near four-fold increase in manpower focused on offensive cyber operations. In late September, the new US National Cybersecurity Strategy (NCS), which expands the authority for launching offensive operations, took effect after being signed by President Trump. It actually calls for an offensive response against any nation the administration chooses to target. America created the Internet and shared it with the world. Now, we must make sure to secure and preserve cyberspace for future generations, said the president in his introduction to the document. Russia and China are listed as the biggest threats. The publication of the strategy came on the heels of other major movements in cyberspace, such as elevating the US Cyber Command to full unified command status and delegating certain responsibilities from the president to the DoD, tasking it with conducting cyber operations abroad. Much has been said about the need to work out certain rules to prevent an unfettered arms race and combat operations in this domain. The truth is that Moscow has called for a broad international effort to prevent the militarization of cyberspace. It wants the issue to become part of a broader Russia-NATO and OSCE agenda. Russian-US cooperation would be a step in the right direction, especially now that the efforts of the United Nations Group of Governmental Experts (UNGGE) have been stymied. In 2017, Moscow and Washington were engaged in talks on creating a working group. The idea was suggested by Russia President Vladimir Putin. Both nations could join efforts to tackle this critical issue as allies. The US missed that opportunity. President Trump rejected the initiative under pressure from the Republicans. On Feb. 27 a 17-member Russian team arrived in Switzerland for a two-day stay to discuss cyber security with its US counterparts. The negotiators were informed upon their arrival that the US delegation was not coming. The talks had been torpedoed by the Americans. No excuse or explanation was ever offered, either before or after the event. Here is an example of diplomacy a l'Americaine for all to see. If not for that US move, the first-ever non-aggression pact in cyberspace might have become a reality. With Moscow acting as an intermediary, Beijing could have joined the process, with many other states to follow. But that opportunity was missed and the US is to blame. It is possible to reach an agreement on restrictions as well as rules of engagement. Russia and China signed one in 2015. That same year, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization launched an initiative aimed at tackling cybersecurity on a global level. The West refused to discuss it. It seems to have been forgotten now that the US and Russia worked out a, a package of agreements in 2013 that included the exchange of data and establishment of emergency response teams. The US pulled the plug on that dialog because of the 2014 events in Ukraine. There is no international law regulating cyber operations. Nothing governs activities in this domain. There is no law, no control, no rules, and no international mechanism that would make it possible to investigate, prosecute, or punish the guilty. But everything is possible. The Russian-US think tanks have offered suggestions about bilateral cooperation in cybersecurity. They could become the basis for a bilateral and then a multilateral agreement, along with other ideas on controlling cyber operations. Cyberspace could theoretically become a sphere of cooperation, and that process could gradually spread to encompass other areas. It could also become the war domain that NATO envisions, with an unfettered arms race pushing everyone to the brink of conflict. Russia has tried to avoid the latter scenario, but the US has made a different choice. Change comes frequently and fast for the Chinese infantry, and their army in general. Since the 1990s the Chinese Army has transformed itself from a poorly equipped (by Western standards) and trained force to one that appears to be, and often is, the equal of Western infantry. Current Chinese infantry have modern weapons and equipment and when deployed for combat appear, from a distance, to be like any other modern infantry force. The Chinese infantry have camouflage uniforms, protective vests, individual radios, night vision equipment. The Chinese infantry are all volunteers. Technically China still has conscription but has not had to use it since the 1950s because there were always enough volunteers. Technically most new troops in the Chinese army are volunteer conscripts for the mandatory two years of conscript service. But if the new soldier wants a more interesting or better paying job they have to accept a longer enlistment. This has become increasingly true of infantry, which has a lot more specialist jobs than ever before. One such job is sniper. For over a decade the Chinese army has been stressing accurate shooting in general. That means more time in basic training is devoted to shooting and rifle use in general. That is one reason China recently increased army basic training from three months to six. The three month course proved inadequate for many recruits. By doubling the basic training a lot of problems are solved. For one thing, no one graduates from the six month course without being physically fit and competent in basic military skills (including how to act and look like a soldier.) That last item has been an issue in China and the West were too many volunteers show up overweight and out of shape. The reasons are the same as in the West; too much time on video games and not enough on exercise. Another problem is that decades of the Chinese one child policy produced a generation of little princes, young men who grew up indulged by parents and grandparents. These guys had trouble adapting to the regimented army life. Soldiers who graduate from the six month basic have also spent several months running around (often literally) in full battle gear, including the protective vest and all the accessories. You have to be in good physical shape for that. So the Chinese army found a lot of problems solved with six months of basic training, including finding out who had a talent for shooting and assigning the best of them to various sniper courses if they were headed for an infantry unit. Even before recent reforms (like adding a scout sniper platoon to many infantry battalions) there were already positions for a sniper in each infantry squad and a squad (six or eight men) of them in each infantry company. Many of these army snipers were using 5.8mm (the standard infantry ammo) sniper rifles. But now more of these snipers have access to 7.62mm and 12.7mm sniper rifles. The Chinese took the scout-sniper platoon concept directly from the U.S. Marine Corps, which pioneered the concept in the 1960s. Basically the marines realized a sniper is stealthy and operates alone (actually in teams of two men) and often serve as scouts anyway. So the marines began training snipers to do recon work as well and also taught them how to call in artillery fire or air support. Suddenly the scout-snipers were much sought after and quickly became an elite force because of all the skills and special training required. The scout-snipers are part of recon units and each marine battalion has a scout sniper platoon of 20 men (now being increased to 28). Scout sniper is considered s secondary job to being infantry. You have to take and pass the special courses and regularly requalify. After 20o1 the Chinese police and military began to emphasize snipers in a big way, noting the experience of American and Western troops with snipers in the Middle East and Afghanistan. Becoming a qualified sniper required a lot more training because, unlike the West, especially the United States, there are not a lot of Chinese who have hunting rifles or engage in target shooting. That is beginning to change but most of these new citizen shooter are older men with the money to try whatever they like. By 2o12 Chinese manufacturers were building a lot of sniper rifles for Chinese police and for export. The M99 12.7mm sniper rifles were very popular and even showed up in Syria and other combat zones. At that time the Chinese Army had only recently begun receiving these weapons. Large caliber sniper rifles were first developed by Chinese manufacturers in 1999, when the M99 showed up. A few years later the M06 (an M99 with a few minor changes) appeared. A decade later another version, the QUB09, came along. All three of these are bullpup (magazine behind the trigger) designs and are built by a state owned weapons factory. China did and still does, consider these 12.7mm rifles anti-material (especially vehicle) weapons. Until quite recently the only 12.7mm ammo provided snipers was for hitting vehicles and equipment at ranges of over a thousand meters. Now there are many other 12.7mm rifles available from Chinese suppliers. For example, the AMR-2 is a more conversional design (magazine in front of the trigger). The M99/M06/QUB09 all weigh about 12 kg (26.4 pounds), while the AMR-2 is a little lighter at 11 kg (24.2 pounds). The M99 series can use 12.7x108mm or 12.7x99mm rounds, while the AMR-2 only handles the 12.7x108mm cartridge. The latest, and most popular 12.7mm sniper rifle is the QUB10. This is a 13.3 kg (29.4 pound) semi-automatic weapon Add a scope and loaded magazine and you have a weapon that weighs at least 15 kg (33 pound). With the new 12.7mm sniper round the QUB10 is accurate out to 1,500 meters. Chinese army snipers, especially the new scout-snipers, are being issued QUB10s as optional equipment. The Chinese consider sniping against people with 12.7mm rifles a secondary mission, and the Chinese rifles are not as accurate at longer ranges (over 1,000 meters) as similar Western models. Most of these rifles are sold to foreign customers. This includes the military, police, private individuals, and anyone with enough cash and a good excuse or convincing forged documents. It's only recently that China has begun delivering large numbers of 12.7mm rifles to its own troops. The problem is that there are a lot of options in this area. And in the last decade there has been a lot of development action in large caliber sniper rifles. This may be one reason why the Chinese Army has not invested heavily in this weapon. But with the introduction of scout sniper platoons (of about 20 troops) and anti-personnel 12.7mm ammo that is changing. For example, after the Barrett Company introduced the first .50 caliber (12.7mm) sniper rifle in the 1980s, there were a number of similar weapons and a lot of special ammo developed by other firms. After 2001 it finally became clear what worked (the original Barrett design) and what didnt (most of the later attempts to improve on the original idea). It has also been found that smaller bullets (like the popular 8.6mm) give about the same range as the 12.7mm for sniping, while using a smaller and lighter rifle. Thus it appears that the Chinese waited for development activity to settle down before investing a lot of money in this type of weapon. Meanwhile the Chinese have invested heavily in teaching their troops how to shoot and that has led to the identification of talented shooters who are now directed towards sniper schools and jobs. TICKERS: GRB; GEBRF Source: Clive Maund for Streetwise Reports (10/2/18) Technical analyst Clive Maund is following this company whose varied projects include blockchain technology for real estate transactions, a solar power project in Puerto Rico and a California land deal. Although Greenbriar Capital Corp. (GRB:TSX.V; GEBRF:OTC) hasn't done much since we started following it, the outlook for it remains very favorable and its stock continues to look like it is readying to break out of a giant base pattern. One important positive development for the company that has been moving forward is that its RealBlock blockchain technology looks like it is going to gain widespread use. The reason for this is that over the past couple of years there has been an explosion in cybercrime involving hackers breaking into email accounts, especially gmail, and intercepting the wire transfer instructions that have in the past been routinely sent between real estate companies and their clients via email for the purpose of expediting real estate transactions. The hackers intercept the wire transfer instructions and then reroute the wired funds into their own accounts. This problem is mushrooming and approaching crisis proportions and this is where Greenbriar's RealBlock blockchain system comes into play, as it is an encrypted safe transfer system that shuts the hackers out. There is a lot of interest in this system and potentially a lot of big customers that would lead to substantial earnings per share for Greenbriar, and that's without factoring in its Puerto Rican solar project and its innovative Smartglass technology, which are both believed to be moving forward. Looking at Greenbriar's latest 10-year chart, we see that although it has continued to zigzag around in recent months within the confines of its giant base pattern, its technical condition has continued to improve, with a buildup in upside volume driving both of its volume indicators higher and higher. This is an obvious sign of ongoing accumulation, and clearly breakout can be expected to occur when all of the stock available around current levels has been soaked upand here we should note that Greenbriar only has about 19 million shares in issue, and the majority of these shares are tightly held by insidersso it is obvious that the upside potential of this stock is very big once it decides to get moving. On its latest 6-month chart we see that after another sharp run-up on strong volume early in September, it is rather overbought and rounding over beneath resistance, so it could drop back again. While the positive volume pattern suggests that it could break higher from the current pattern, if it doesn't and instead drops back again, it will simply be regarded as presenting another opportunity to buy or build positions further. The conclusion is that Greenbriar continues to look like it is readying for a major bull market advance, so we stay long and it is buy on any near-term dips, if any. The fact is that most investors have no idea how much this company is going to be worth and is already worth. Let's just briefly consider this. With respect to the company's Montalva solar project in Puerto Rico, following the devastation wrought to the island's infrastructure by Hurricane Maria, the Federal Oversight and Management Board has classified Greenbriar's solar project a "Critical Project" and recommended that the project get built, and a court ordered valuation found the net present value to Greenbriar to be US $191 million even if the project does not get built, which works out at $10 a share. Then we have Greenbriar's RealBlock blockchain technology, which is commencing commercial operations in just a few days through its tradename RealBloq. With the real estate industry having no choice but to adopt this technology because of the increasingly ruinous consequences of ballooning wire transaction fraud, which was up from $17 million in 2016 to $969 million in 2017 based on FBI reports, this is set to be a multi-billion dollar industry, and Greenbriar is already there with the solution. Finally, the company's land position in California, acquired at a very low price, is set to be developed which will yield a further $260 million to shareholders. So I'll stick to the charts, you do the mathdon't worry, it's easy "back of a matchbox" stuff, and to get you started I'll remind you that Greenbriar only has 19 million shares in issue, most of which are tightly held. Greenbriar Capital website. Greenbriar Capital Corp., GRB.V, GEBRF on OTC, closed at C$1.39, $1.11 on 28th September 2018. Clive Maund has been president of www.clivemaund.com, a successful resource sector website, since its inception in 2003. He has 30 years' experience in technical analysis and has worked for banks, commodity brokers and stockbrokers in the City of London. He holds a Diploma in Technical Analysis from the UK Society of Technical Analysts. [NLINSERT] Disclosure: 1) Clive Maund: I, or members of my immediate household or family, own shares of the following companies mentioned in this article: None. I personally am, or members of my immediate household or family are, paid by the following companies mentioned in this article: None. My company has a financial relationship with the following companies mentioned in this article: None. CliveMaund.com disclosures below. I determined which companies would be included in this article based on my research and understanding of the sector. 2) The following companies mentioned in this article are billboard sponsors of Streetwise Reports: Greenbriar Capital. Click here for important disclosures about sponsor fees. 3) Statements and opinions expressed are the opinions of the author and not of Streetwise Reports or its officers. The author is wholly responsible for the validity of the statements. The author was not paid by Streetwise Reports for this article. Streetwise Reports was not paid by the author to publish or syndicate this article. The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Streetwise Reports requires contributing authors to disclose any shareholdings in, or economic relationships with, companies that they write about. Streetwise Reports relies upon the authors to accurately provide this information and Streetwise Reports has no means of verifying its accuracy. 4) This article does not constitute investment advice. Each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her individual financial professional and any action a reader takes as a result of information presented here is his or her own responsibility. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Streetwise Reports' terms of use and full legal disclaimer. This article is not a solicitation for investment. Streetwise Reports does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on Streetwise Reports should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Streetwise Reports does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company mentioned on Streetwise Reports. 5) From time to time, Streetwise Reports LLC and its directors, officers, employees or members of their families, as well as persons interviewed for articles and interviews on the site, may have a long or short position in securities mentioned. Directors, officers, employees or members of their immediate families are prohibited from making purchases and/or sales of those securities in the open market or otherwise from the time of the interview or the decision to write an article, until one week after the publication of the interview or article. As of the date of this interview, officers and/or employees of Streetwise Reports LLC (including members of their household) own securities of Greenbriar Capital, a company mentioned in this article. Charts provided by the author. CliveMaund.com Disclosure: The above represents the opinion and analysis of Mr Maund, based on data available to him, at the time of writing. Mr. Maund's opinions are his own, and are not a recommendation or an offer to buy or sell securities. Mr. Maund is an independent analyst who receives no compensation of any kind from any groups, individuals or corporations mentioned in his reports. As trading and investing in any financial markets may involve serious risk of loss, Mr. Maund recommends that you consult with a qualified investment advisor, one licensed by appropriate regulatory agencies in your legal jurisdiction and do your own due diligence and research when making any kind of a transaction with financial ramifications. Although a qualified and experienced stock market analyst, Clive Maund is not a Registered Securities Advisor. Therefore Mr. Maund's opinions on the market and stocks can only be construed as a solicitation to buy and sell securities when they are subject to the prior approval and endorsement of a Registered Securities Advisor operating in accordance with the appropriate regulations in your area of jurisdiction. Clayton Mitchell New Zealand First MP This years New Zealand First convention and AGM is just around the corner and is set to be our largest gathering and networking event of the year. Kicking off on Saturday, September 29, at our very own Tauranga Racecourse we will celebrate an important milestone in the partys history our 25th anniversary. To celebrate this momentous and sold-out convention we will be hosting a number of special guests and keynote speakers from all over New Zealand; people who have made a difference in our communities through hard work, persistence and innovation. New Zealand First and all members of the caucus have been working hard to put New Zealand and New Zealanders first. Our 15 Fundamental Principles are at the core of any decision we make as a caucus. Since the last election, New Zealand First has had a significant role in shaping the government of our country. Initiatives such as the establishment of a Provincial Growth Fund to develop regions of New Zealand, retaining 90-day trials for small businesses, and increasing the number of police across the provinces would not have been possible without the Coalition Agreement. The convention will wrap up on Sunday, September 30, with party leader Winston Peters delivering a public address. Please join us at Tauranga Racecourse at 2pm to hear his speech, which will undoubtedly be both enlightening and entertaining. I look forward to seeing you there. Bay of Plenty Our client has plenty of work in the pipeline and as such they are in need of hammerhands for an immediate start.The successful... View or Apply on GoodWork.co.nz Waiariki MP Tamati Coffey is focussing on upskilling and educating Maori on how to take advantage of what is set to be a boom in the horticulture industry in the Bay of Plenty. The goal comes following a series of visits made by the MP on Tuesday, to some of the Bay of Plentys leading forces within the sector. The visits have included a hui with Ngai te Rangi Iwi Trust Board members; an orchard tour of a Ngai Tukairangi Trust orchard; a tour of Zespri; as well as discussions with organisations such as Venture Centure and BayTrust. SunLive met with Tamati at Zespri to hear some of his initial reflections about the direction of the industry within the region. Kiwifruit is already a huge player in the Bay of Plenty and in my electorate which is Waiariki, says Tamati. About 86 per cent of New Zealands green kiwifruit grows in the region, and a further 76 per cent of New Zealands gold kiwifruit grows in the region as well. With numbers like that, it makes sense for me to be at the front of whats going on. He says the visit has been a good opportunity to view the industry from an international standpoint, along with being a chance to hear from key leaders as part of the New Zealand Kiwifruit Grower Industry Forum. The visit was a first for Tamati who says he was also the recipient of a Zespri scholarship during his time as a university student. Its nice to pay a bit of homage to them for that. I actually got to say thank you for it and wonder around their operations to see what they do. Its been beneficial to come here and see the other side of the coin, the macro picture and what it looks like on an international stage. They are expecting huge growth and by 2025 they are predicting $4b worth of sales into the worldwide market, which is only seven years away. Tamati says hes confident in the potential of the industry, however Maori involvement within it is something he wants to improve. The market is definitely going forwards, but we need to make sure our Maori trusts are well-positioned and well-educated to be able to take advantage of the boom thats coming. The NZKGI forum who met with Tamati at Zespri, includes a Maori subset who handle specific Maori issues, he says this subset plays a valuable role in helping Maori to move forward within the industry. Its also been nice to go to Ngai Tukairangi and see the industry from a Maori growers point of view, he says. While Zespri is our door to the international market, its actually the Maori growers at the front line that I want to hear from. Tamati says he has also had a chance to hear about the challenges faced by those in the industry. Labour is a big one; making sure there are enough people to pick. Theyve already identified some new solutions with one being developing ways to make the employment cycle longer, rather than it being only the months they are out picking for. People who want a job, want one they can depend on, not something thats only around for three months and then nine months time youre out in the benefit queue again. Accommodation is another issue affecting employment, says Tamati. In Gisborne they have set aside $2.5m dollars for accommodation for seasonal kiwifruit workers. Its not necessarily something they want to do, but its something they recognise they have to do. There are also some other initiatives they are working on together with the Government, specifically in getting young people in work through the Mana in Mahi programme. This programme centres on those who are facing long-term unemployment issues and need a bit more support to come off the benefit. So trying to channel more of these people into horticulture jobs. He says biosecurity is another huge threat facing the industry. PSA wasnt all that long ago and industry leaders want to make sure they reach their targets, but the biggest threat to that is what is coming in through our borders. The smallest pest could pass through, like what happened with PSA, and it would mean all of it is ruined. Update 5.45pm - Congestion is now easing after faulty railway lights caused delays throughout the city. A number of motorists travelling towards BayPark roundabout in both the northbound and eastbound lanes reported traffic was 'crawling' at the time. However NZTA says the road is now clearing. "The railway signals have been repaired and congestion is easing." Earlier: Motorists throughout the city are facing a number of delays, following reports of faulty railway lights. A caller to the 0800 SUNLIVE news hotline says traffic is built up heading towards the Baypark roundabout from Maungatapu. "We are moving, but slowly." Further delays have also been reported near the Kaimai Ranges. NZTA says the delays have been caused by a fault. "Due to faulty railway lights traffic is congested in this area. Avoid the area or delay your journey if possible." There is no indication as to when the fault will be repaired as of yet. The Steamers have gone down to Otago 45-34 in a pulsating game under the roof at Dunedin's Forsyth Barr Stadium last night, killed off by a hatrick of devastating second half intercept tries. Despite taking home a bonus point for scoring at least four tries for the first time this season it was not the result they needed, and leaves them clinging on to their Mitre 10 Cup Championship division playoff hopes by their fingertips. It was their best game since the round one win over Taranaki, as they produced a more composed performance than they've achieved in recent weeks and brought out the all-action running rugby they knew they needed to get the bonus point win they were targeting. Captain Tyler Ardron said afterwards he was proud of their effort, as they threw everything they had at Otago. At the same time they cut the error rate dramatically and improved their discipline, but they might just be feeling there's no justice in this crazy game as every error they did make was punished severely, and the sense persisted through the match that whatever they could do, Otago could do just that little bit better. The crucial spell of the match came just after halftime as, ironically, the Steamers had a handy 20-14 lead and were looking to extend it with Otago down to 14 men. Twice within two minutes however promising attacks turned to vain retreats as the home side's Matt Faddes first and then Josh Ioane stole passes from the Steamers' backline and sprinted better than 75 metres to score. On both occasions openside dynamo Mitch Karpik, characterising his outstanding 80 minute performance, was the nearest to chasing down the try-scorers, and very nearly did so. Prior to that things had looked quite promising. The Steamers had come out from the opening whistle and signalled their intentions with an early try to wing Bailey Simonsson, benefiting from slick passing from the base of the ruck by halfback Luke Campbell and first five Kaleb Trask. Trask, newly promoted to the 10 jersey after the losses of Mike Delany and Jason Robertson, added his first highlight of an eye-catching performance with the team's second try after Ioane had levelled the ledger for Otago. A penalty to Trask followed, and then, after a second Otago try to fullback Vilimoni Koroi, a penalty try for the visitors when they turned down another penalty attempt and kicked for the corner instead to set up a lineout rumble. Then came the surreal period early in the second spell when the 20-14 lead, which could easily have been extended to 27-14 or even beyond as the Steamers attacked with passion and threw the ball around with freedom, turned into a 31-20 deficit thanks to Otago's appetite for pushing their defensive line up fast and looking for the interceptions. To their credit though the attacks kept coming from the Bay boys, and hooker Tom Crozier was the next to get over the line. That was the fourth try they were looking for to earn the bonus point, and it closed the game to 31-27 with a quarter of the game remaining. Unfortunately for them though that quarter belonged almost entirely to the home side who quickly stretched out to 45-27 with second tries to Faddes and then Kiroi from the third intercept of the night when a Steamers pass fell to earth as they mounted yet another promising attack. With the game gone replacement lock Aaron Carroll continued to add to his season try tally, getting over after taking a quick tap and go from a penalty five metres out. Where there's life there's hope, they say, and there is a scenario under which the Steamers could still sneak past Northland and into the fourth playoff place. That relies on the Blue and Golds taking bonus point wins in their two remaining matches, over Southland this Sunday and then Northland the following Saturday, and the northerners going through their two games without picking up another point. That would leave the two teams tied on 21 points, and as the Steamers would have won the match between them they would go through. If it comes off though it would be an escape Harry Houdini would have been proud of. Bay of Plenty 34 (Bailey Simonsson, Kaleb Trask, Tom Crozier, Aaron Carroll tries; penalty try; Trask con, pen; Reece MacDonald con). Otago 45 (Josh Ioane 2, Vilimoni Koroi 2, Matt Faddes 2 tries; Ioane 6 con, pen) HT: 14-20 The MP behind a bill to make new immigrants sign up to what he calls New Zealand values says anyone who thinks it's racist is just trying to stop a genuine debate. The Respecting New Zealand Values Bill includes core values that demand respect for gender equality, legal sexual preferences, freedom of religion and a commitment not to campaign against alcohol consumption. The New Zealand First conference at the weekend in Tauranga voted for the bill and party leader Winston Peters believes without New Zealand values, the country would be a "hell hole". Promoter of the bill NZ First MP Clayton Mitchell told Morning Report the bill would ensure the values of New Zealand are protected. "What we do have to be careful [of] is that we don't have the redneck brigade trying to highjack and hoodwink this policy. "This is actually the antithesis of racism and anybody that tries to use the word to try and stop this sort of idea from being discussed and brought forward by saying it's racist is just stopping an open, genuine debate." He says New Zealanders are tolerant people and anyone coming into the country needs to be too. "We don't want to see racist bigots arriving to this country and people rolling their shoulders in political correct circumstance and saying 'oh but they're entitled to do that'. They shouldn't be able to do that." He says while nothing has been finalised, if someone was found to be in breach of legislation, an independent panel may assess the case or it may go through the courts. "What we've got now is the ability for the Minister of Internal Affairs to be able to remove somebody that might be showing those sort of signs. What we're trying to do is make it simplified so that it doesn't have to go through the minister each time, like we had with Peter Dunne, with the marijuana and the medicine." Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says the Labour Party wasn't likely to vote for the bill in Parliament and not something the party would promote. "It is not a government bill, it is not government policy. It's a New Zealand First bill and it's up to them to pursue it and debate it and it's not something that Labour is likely to support at all," she told Morning Report earlier this week. But Clayton says "politics is a long game, you can't expect anything to happen overnight". If it's not taken up as a member's bill then it's something the party can fight for in the future, he says. A Sidney man who was accused of beating and robbing an acquaintance during a burglary has been acquitted by a jury. Jackson (Jack) Feddersen was arrested just more than a year ago when he was named by a former high school classmate, Ryan Stettner, regarding an incident in Stettner's home. Stettner said Feddersen was the man who attacked him in his bed in the early morning hours of Aug. 31, 2017. Stettner claimed $3,000 was taken from him during the incident by the accused and at least one other unknown assailant. The trial, which lasted two and a half days in Cheyenne County District Court,... After serving Cheyenne County veterans for several years, Ron Gusman is resigning. He will remain on the job through Dec. 31. The discussion Monday with the Cheyenne County Commissioners focused on how to appoint a new Veterans Service Officer trained and ready to meet the needs of the countys veterans. The discussion started with Larry Nelson of the Veterans Service Committee commending Gusman for his service. I want to publicly thank and commend Ron (Gusman) for his level of commitment, Nelsons said. Nelson, Gusman and the board discussed how to ensure the new veterans service o... DEWITT, NY - A new cafe offering bubble tea, liquid nitrogen ice cream and Thai rolled ice cream has opened in a shopping plaza on Erie Boulevard East in DeWitt. Labcow opened earlier this week at 3206 Erie Blvd. E. in the space formerly occupied by a karate studio. The plaza is next to Stone's Steakhouse and Pet Supplies Plus. Labcow's co-owners - Eric Jiang and Xi Liang - have renovated the space, added seating. Customers can watch the ice cream creations as they're being made. The interior of Labcow in DeWitt. Eric Jiang, co-owner, is in the front and co-owner Xi Liang is in the back. Thai rolled ice cream is a new trend - instead of being scooped traditionally it is made in an entirely different way. The liquid base is poured onto a frozen pan and then chopped, mixed, spread and then rolled using a spatula. Customers choose the ingredients to be mixed into their ice cream, as well as the toppings. Labcow also makes and sells liquid nitrogen-churned ice cream - a process which removes the ice crystals leaving a smooth, creamy ice cream. Ice cream is then served in a cup with dry ice, Jiang said. Jiang, who owns four Mitsuba restaurants in Central New York, also runs a cafe similiar to Labcow in Danbury, Ct. called Papa-t Bubble Tea & Ice Cream. His local restaurants include Mitsuba Japanese Steakhouse in Camillus' Township 5, a hibachi spot and a fine dining location in New Hartford, and restaurants in Rome and Ithaca. The cafe also offers bubble tea, and Dragon's Breath, a treat made with liquid nitrogen. In about two weeks, Jiang plans to open the other side of his cafe, which will serve poke bowls and include a ramen bar. Poke - which means slice or cut in Hawaiian - is a style of food that features chunks of raw, marinated fish -- usually tuna -- which is tossed over rice and topped with vegetables and umami-packed sauces. Jiang said he's hoping his location will attract customers from Syracuse University, Le Moyne College and all over the area. Syracuse, NY -- A Syracuse man, accused of helping set up a drug robbery that ended in a barrage of bullets and two men dead, was offered a plea today. Brian Montanez, 27, was with two other robbers when they ambushed Jose "Jimmy" Castro in a robbery over money and drugs, Chief Assistant District Attorney Melinda McGunnigle has said. The gunman, Rene DeJesus, who fired 25 times inside a small West Side apartment, has already been sentenced to 25 years to life for killing Castro and one of his fellow robbers, Arturo Resto Figueroa. But Montanez was also charged with murder, accused of participating in the robbery that led to Castro's Sept. 25, 2017 death in an Avery Avenue apartment. His case has been stalled due to problems finding him a lawyer he can work with. Today, McGunnigle officially offered Montanez 22 years in prison if he pleaded guilty in the case. That would satisfy homicide and weapons charges. Montanez has not yet decided whether he would accept the offer. If not, a trial is scheduled for March 2019. Montanez was with two others, DeJesus, of New York City, and Figueroa, of Oklahoma, at the time of the robbery, McGunnigle has said. The men had scripted the robbery, with DeJesus and Figueroa coming in from out of town and staying at a motel, she said. But things went so badly during the robbery that Figueroa ended up dead himself in the barrage of gunfire, the prosecutor said. Montanez remains in jail as his case continues. UTICA, N.Y. -- A Connecticut man who was wanted on a parole warrant was arrested Tuesday in Utica with crack cocaine and heroin, according to New York State Police. Jonathan A. Ayala, 26, of Hartford, Connecticut, was also charged with two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and one count of fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Ayala was found on Miller Street in the City of Utica, where police had a search warrant to search the residence, police said. Investigators found approximately 90 envelopes of heroin, one-quarter of an ounce of crack cocaine, drug paraphernalia and more than $2,000 in cash during the search, police said. Ayala was taken to the Utica Police Department's lockup while he awaits arraignment in the City of Utica, police said. SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The U.S. Marshals Service is looking for a man who crashed his vehicle during a pursuit in the Syracuse on Tuesday. Deshawnte Waller, 41, is wanted by the New York State Parole Division for a parole violation, the U.S. Marshals Service said in a news release Tuesday evening. He also has an active warrant in Georgia for failure to register as a sex offender, the release said. In 2000, Waller was convicted in Onondaga County of a series of crimes and sent to state prison for eight years to life, according to state prison records. He was convicted of second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, fourth-degree conspiracy, third-degree robbery and third-degree rape, records show. Waller's release date from state prison is unclear. Earlier that same year, Waller was convicted of third-degree rape in Bibb County, Georgia, sex offender records in Bibb County show. Waller is 5-feet, 10-inches tall, weighs between 190 and 200 pounds and has multiple tattoos, authorities said. He should be considered armed and dangerous, the marshals service said. Waller has been convicted of crimes in New York, Georgia and South Carolina, the marshals service said. On Tuesday, members of the U.S. Marshals New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force were looking for Waller, the marshals service said. Officers saw a vehicle matching one they believed Waller was driving and followed Waller for a "short distance," the marshals service said. The vehicle tried to evade law enforcement by speeding eastbound on East Genesee Street, the marshals service said. The members of the task force lost sight of the car and searched the area, they said. Later, task force members found a car had crashed at the intersection of East Genesee Street and Salt Springs Road, the Marshals Service said. They identified the car -- a black Chevrolet SUV -- as the one they believed Waller was driving, the marshals service said. Witnesses at the scene told the marshals the SUV ran a red light and two people from the SUV ran away, the marshals service said. Police and task force members are searching the area. Two people who were in the car hit by the SUV suffered minor injuries and are listed in stable condition, the marshals service said. The U.S. Marshals Service asked that anyone with information on Waller's whereabouts contact the agency at 315-473-7601. Three years after he and his partner Mike Paetow opened a small Syracuse brewery, Mike LeRoy finally quit his full-time job at a local veterinary clinic. "I was learning how to work without a lot of sleep," said LeRoy, who opened Stout Beard Brewing Co, with Paetow in 2015. "Now I can come into the brewery fresh and ready to brew." Paetow, meanwhile, still has a "regular" job. He is a supervisor at the Veterinary Medical Center on Bridge Street, where he and then fellow employee LeRoy met and bonded over beer. Now, with at least one partner in the brewery full-time, Stout Beard can increase its volume and more easily fill the 16 taps at the tasting room it opened last spring on Westcott Street in Syracuse. Perhaps, at some point, they'll expand sales to bars or stores. This is how it works for many of the booming number of craft brewers in New York state: A couple of friends decide to turn their beer passion into a business. They start off small, usually with no employees and often, like the guys at Stout Beard, hanging on to other jobs with decent pay and benefits. Many will eventually grow, sell more beer, add space and equipment and hire employees. But make no mistake: Few of these start-up craft breweries are suddenly going to rival Anheuser-Busch, or even Genesee or Saranac, in the volume of beer, size of the payroll or reach of their sales efforts. A rare few might even close. "Most of these breweries are starting small, and almost all of their revenues are coming from what they can sell out of their tasting rooms," said Paul Leone, director of the New York State Brewers Association. "Then, if they're successful and they make good beer, they tend to have a problem keeping up with the demand. So they have to figure out how to grow." New York's surging brewery growth Craft brewing started in New York state in the early 1990s, but the numbers really started to take off in 2012 -- more than doubling since then to well over 400 breweries. The surge was spurred by entrepreneurs with a passion for beer, but also aided by millions of dollars in grants, tax benefits, licensing changes and other incentives offered by the state. The growth follows many models. Many are like Stout Beard -- small, local and growing steadily, if not fast. That probably makes up the largest segment of the recent surge, Leone said. Yet occasionally one of those once tiny businesses, just as small as Stout Beard, have blossomed into giants. A recent example is Sloop Brewing, which started in 2010 in a garage in Poughkeepsie and at first sold all its beer at farmers markets. Last month, it unveiled one of the largest craft beer production breweries in the state, in a former IBM facility in Dutchess County. And there are those that start bigger. Young Lion Brewing Co. in Canandaigua opened in 2017 with a big 30-barrel brewery (15 times larger than Stout Beard) and a full-time brewing staff. "We did a lot of research and what I heard again and again is that the biggest problem brewers had is they reached their capacity very quickly," Jen Newman, the CEO of Young Lion and one of five partners in the brewery, said at the time of the opening. "They couldn't keep up with demand. So we decided to go as large as we could. We think that's a good investment." Others have been growing, too. Empire Brewing Co. started in 1994 with a small brewpub in Syracuse's Armory Square, then launched a big production brewery with eight times more brewing capacity and multi-state distribution in 2016. Good Nature Brewing in Hamilton followed a similar model, growing from a small brewhouse, to a standalone tasting room to large farm brewery, tap room and cafe. More recently, Stoneyard Brewing of Brockport unveiled a big brewery that will be one of the largest in the Rochester region. It, too, began as a small brewpub. The economic impact of all these breweries and their growth has been difficult to measure. The state brewers association has reported the industry has created more than 10,000 jobs and a couple of billion dollars in economic impact. But Leone says the group is currently working on a new impact study that he hopes will have more solid numbers. A major boost from state government Gov. Andrew Cuomo has made no secret of his support for the craft beverage industry, including breweries, wineries, distilleries and hard cider makers. The State Liquor Authority often cites statistics that measure the growth since Cuomo convened what he called a "Beer, Wine & Spirits Summit" in October 2012. At that time, Cuomo pledged to cut fees, regulations and paperwork for the drinks industry -- much of which the state followed through on. While breweries have passed the 400 mark, all beverage manufacturers taken together now top 1,000. In one of the most significant actions, the state in 2012 also launched an expansion of farm producer licenses, which had helped spur the wine industry in 1970s, to cover brewers and distillers. These licenses offer benefits to beverage manufacturers who pledge to use an increasing amount of New York-grown and produced ingredients. Nearly 200 farm brewery licenses have been issued since then. In some cases, the state has provided financial incentives, through tax credits, Empire State Development grants and other programs. Though most breweries have not received such benefits, there have been some notable examples, aiding both large and small brewers: -- Genesee Brewery in Rochester, the state's oldest, recently debuted a $49 million expansion of its main brewery. That will trigger $9.5 million in state grants and tax credits to help expand its nearby Genesee Brew House pilot brewery, tasting room and restaurant. -- The small Paradox Brewery is part of a new $32 million state effort to build a Gateway to the Adirondacks visitors center project in North Hudson. Paradox is investing almost $3 million of its own money to make the move from its original home in nearby Schroon Lake to the new site. -- Woodcock Brothers Brewing, which started in 2012 as a brewpub in Wilson on Lake Ontario, landed $516,000 in state Community Block Development grants and another $110,000 in state tax credits to help it open a second craft brewery and restaurant in an old factory in North Tonawanda near Buffalo. -- In one of the most talked-about recent brewery expansions in New York, Other Half Brewing Co, of Brooklyn is opening a second brewery near Canandaigua, in the former home of the now-closed Nedloh Brewing Co. Other Half paid $660,000 for the Upstate site, and will invest $1.8 million in it. The state is providing $400,000 in income tax credits. The Other Half partners are also upgrading the brewhouse in Brooklyn. -- Ellicottville Brewing Co. is getting a $600,000 grant through the state's Empire State Development office and $134,000 in tax credits to expand to a fourth location in Little Valley in western New York. -- Both Empire Brewing and Good Nature Brewing received state Empire State Development aid in their expansions in Madison County. State money is also used to promote the brewing industry overall, including $400,000 toward a series called Brewed in New York that is airing on public television. What kind of jobs does a brewery create? Working at a brewery can be an intoxicating prospect for some people -- after all, you to work with and around beer. But has the growth in the number of breweries generated a similar boom in good brewery jobs? It's not yet clear. While the New York State Brewers Association works on its new survey into the numbers, Micheal Coons is also looking at the data. He's the brewmaster at the Copper Turret Restaurant & Brewhouse, the teaching brewery at Morrisville State College in Madison County. The school is working to develop a Brewing Science & Technology major, and currently offers a brewing minor in some of its other programs. Morrisville is using a data company to identify the jobs available for its graduates. "Right now, a majority of the jobs we're seeing at breweries are in retail, sales, the distribution side of the business, and some back office stuff," Coons said. There aren't as many openings right now for what Coons calls a "shift brewer," the person who strictly runs the brewhouse equipment. Morrisville's program accounts for some of that: In addition to teaching the brewing process, the classes also focus on maintenance, cleaning, management and supervision, and the business and financial side. "It's not all focused on making wort," Coons, said, referring to the liquid in a brewery that is fermented into beer. "There is a lot more to it than that." The focus recognizes that many of the brewers in the near future will be small entrepreneurs, who need to understand all facets of the industry. "It's a lot of how to run a brewery or brewpub," he said. "And if you are a production brewery and you're looking for a competent brewer, there's not a large pool of qualified people. That's what our goal is -- to produce these people." Like Leone of the state brewers association, Coons sees growth in the near future coming more from the continued opening of small breweries, not necessarily the expansion of existing ones. "The models are changing, but we still have growth with openings and a relatively minimal amount of closures," Coons said. "More and more breweries are small and locally focused. The days of starting really small and suddenly becoming a giant -- those days are probably not going to stick around much longer." So Morrisville will, for the near term, likely keep its focus on producing well-rounded graduates who can handle all aspects of the beer business. "We all agree that we need to figure out the way forward so that we have a sustainable craft beer industry," Coons said. "We don't want to lose that mom-and-pop character of people starting small breweries and making them successful." Achieving success in the beer business With the rapid industry growth and brewery openings, of course, there have been some hiccups. Some breweries -- fewer than a dozen -- have closed across the state in he past few years, often for very specific reasons tied to that business. Some have closed due to illness, or the desire of the owners to retire or because running a brewery, raising a family and hanging on to a day job proved to be too much to handle. "I think the closings we have seen, and there really haven't been that many, are not because of some overall weakness in the industry, said Leone of the state brewers association. "Every closing has had its own particular story." And so do the breweries that have opened and achieved success. They often share a similar backstory to the one at Stout Beard in Syracuse. At Full Boar Brewery in North Syracuse, for example, partners Dave Marchant and Eric Petranchuk started part-time in 2016, switched to full-time and then hired an assistant brewer and some tap room help. "It quickly became evident that we weren't going to be able to do this part-time," Marchant said. "Especially keeping the tap room open five days a week." And Full Board still has plans for expansion, on a modest basis. "We want to grow, but grow organically," Marchant said. "We want to look for some off-premises sales, and we'd like to become known beyond North Syracuse." But that will take some effort. "You can't get into this thinking it's just a cool hobby," Marchant said. "It's a business and you have to treat it as a business." Don Cazentre writes about craft beer, wine, spirits and beverages for NYup.com, syracuse.com and The Post-Standard. Reach him at dcazentre@nyup.com, or follow him at NYup.com, on Twitter or Facebook. SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The City of Syracuse has ended its 10-year-old policy of shutting off a tenant's water if a landlord doesn't pay the bill, following a federal lawsuit. The city also agreed to pay $35,000 in legal fees as well as $650 to Jacqueline Winston, a woman whose water was shut off for three days in 2016 after her landlord fell behind on payments. The policy change and payment are part of a settlement agreement in a class action lawsuit filed against the city by Legal Services of Central New York. The Common Council will vote next week on the settlement. According to the settlement, the city will no longer shut off the water in cases like Winston's. The city will also update its water shut-off notices to include clear instructions for tenants to contact the Syracuse Water Department or Legal Services of Central New York to have water service restored. The city will instead add an unpaid water bill to a property owner's tax bill. If that bill goes unpaid, the city can seize the house and turn it over to the Land Bank. The policy change applies only to tenants in rental properties, not to owner-occupied properties. Kristen Smith, corporation counsel for the city, said the change is the right thing to do. Officials will still work to collect water bills, but won't punish tenants whose landlords are delinquent. "Everyone really struggled with this internally, trying to balance the rights of tenants," she said. "We view water as a human right and our administration is focusing on housing stability. Shutting off water to a tenant creates instability." Winston's attorney, Joshua Cotter, said the settlement will have an impact on other municipalities as well. "We are delighted to have now resolved this matter in the U.S District Court and applaud the City of Syracuse for its commitment to holding landlords accountable for unpaid water bills," Cotter said in a statement. Winston sued the city in federal court in February 2016 after her family went three days without water. She claimed the city violated her Constitutional right to due process. Winston received a notice from the city in January 2016 telling her of a $473 outstanding water bill. She was told she had 30 days to pay the bill. According to the lawsuit, Winston informed her maintenance person, who assured her the landlord would take care of it. A month later, the city shut off her water. Her family had to use gallons of bottled water to cook, clean and brush their teeth. She became the lead plaintiff in the federal class action lawsuit from Legal Services of Central New York, an agency that advocates for things like housing justice through civil lawsuits. The lawsuit said the city's policy of shutting off a tenant's water was unjust. Last September, a federal judge ruled against Winston. She appealed. In April, the appeals court ruled Winston's case could move forward. At that point, the city started negotiating a settlement, Smith said. The settlement amount includes $35,000 in attorneys fees to Legal Services of Central New York. Winston will received $650, the amount she lost in rent when she had to move out of her apartment. After the appeal ruling in April, the city temporarily stopped shutting off water for tenants whose landlords failed to pay their water bill. That policy change will become permanent once the council approves the settlement. The water shut-off policy dates back to 2008, when the Common Council decided to put pressure on bad landlords who didn't pay water bills. The new, more aggressive shut-off policy increased city revenue by more than $1 million in its first year. But it often left tenants dealing with the consequences, like a dry tap. Tenants then had to navigate a confusing bureaucratic maze to have water service reinstated. Smith emphasized that despite the policy change, the city will still work to collect water bills. "This doesn't mean we're not collecting water any more," she said. "We have one tool going away but we're going to be more aggressive with other tools. We don't want taxpayers subsidizing the water of a few property owners who don't want to pay their bills." Correction: An earlier version of this story said the $35,650 settlement went to Winston. Most of the money went to attorneys fees, which is now reflected in the story. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 3) Retired Major General Jovito Palparan Jr. has been turned over to the New Bilibid Prison (NBP). This was confirmed by Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra Wednesday who said the transfer happened at 7:45 p.m. Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva also confirmed Palparan's transfer, saying, "Naturn-over na, naturn-over na namin sa (New) Bilibid Prisons...What's important is we already did our job of turning them over to (New) Bilibid... We transported them there." [Translation: We've turned them over to the New Bilibid Prisons...What's important is we already did our job of turning them over to New Bilibid... We transported them there.] Palparan's co-accused, Lt. Col. Felipe Anotado, Jr. and S/Sgt. Edgardo Osorio, were likewise transferred to the NBP. No other details have been released as of posting time. Palparan was found guilty for the kidnapping and serious illegal detention of two students of the University of the Philippines (UP) in 2006. Palparan, dubbed "The Butcher" by human rights activists, was found guilty, along with Anotado and Osorio, The students, Sherlyn Cadapan and Karen Empeno, remain missing until today. The Department of Justice said Tuesday the decision to transfer Palparan came after the Malolos, Bulacan Regional Trial Court Branch 15 denied the motion to hold the implementation of his transfer to the national penitentiary in Muntinlupa. Syracuse, N.Y. -- Spectrum's television and telephone service ranked last and its internet service ranked second to last in a recent J.D. Power customer satisfaction survey in the eastern U.S., which includes New York. AT&T/DirecTV ranked first in J.D. Power's 2018 U.S. Residential Television Service Provider Satisfaction Study with a score of 767 points on a 1,000-point scale. It was followed by Verizon (763), DISH Network (748), Cox Communications (717), Comcast (XFINITY) (710), Optimum (699) and Spectrum (684). The average score in the East was 725. Verizon topped the list in J.D. Power's residential telephone service satisfaction study with a score of 768. It was followed by Comcast (XFINITY) (730), Frontier Communications (721) Optimum (718) and Spectrum (718). The average score in the East was 743. Verizon also ranked first in residential internet service satisfaction with a score of 750. It was followed by Comcast (XFINITY) (704), Cox (703), Optimum (696), Spectrum (681) and Frontier (655). The average in the East was 711. The consumer data and analytics firm said the studies were based on responses from 27,765 customers nationwide who evaluated their cable/satellite TV, high-speed internet and telephone service providers. The internet service provider and telephone studies measured customer satisfaction across five factors: network performance and reliability; cost of service; billing; communication; and customer service. The TV study measured satisfaction on the same five factors plus programming. Spectrum, the brand name for Charter Communications, is the largest cable company in New York, providing cable television, broadband and telephone service to more than 2 million subscribers in more than 1,150 communities. The company is in a battle with New York regulators over expansion of its network to unserved and underserved rural areas of the state. In July, the state Public Service Commission ordered the company to transfer its cable franchises in the state to another provider or providers within six months because of what the commission said was the company's repeated failure to meet its commitments to extend its network to the state's less densely populated areas. Charter has vowed to fight the order but has also sought settlement talks with the commission. Contact Rick Moriarty anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-470-3148 SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The Syracuse City School District struck a deal with the police department to keep schools staffed with officers, despite the police union's recent request to remove officers from schools. Under the three-year deal, the district will pay the city $93,071 per officer to put a student resource officer in schools. It's a program that's been in place for years, but came under scrutiny by the union this spring. In April, the district removed an officer who broke a student's elbow during an arrest. The officer, Valon Smith, was cleared of wrongdoing by the District Attorney, but the Citizen Review Board accused him of using excessive force. After the district removed Officer Smith, Police Benevolent Association President Jeff Piedmonte called for all officers to be removed from schools. He said police shouldn't work at the schools without support from city and school officials. "Syracuse City Schools went to a minimal discipline policy years ago and now they apparently want to support students resisting arrest," Piedmonte said in April. "The Syracuse PBA is encouraging the mayor, superintendent and Chief Fowler to remove the officers for everyone's safety. I'm sure the teachers will appreciate the show of support." Piedmonte suggested officers patrol outside the schools and only enter to make arrests. Deputy police Chief Joseph Cecile said today the officers working in the schools love the assignment and Piedmonte has a different position than police administration. "The SROs in the schools they're very dedicated, very passionate," Cecile said. "If you talk to any one of them, they'll tell you this is the only place I want to be. They weren't forced into that job. They put in for a transfer request - it's where they want to be." Currently there are police in each of the city's high schools. In the past, the school district paid for five officers and the city paid for four. Under the new agreement, the district will pay for officers and determine how many it needs and is willing to pay for. Cecile said if the district wants more than the five officers it currently pays for, the district will have to pay for them. However, Cecile said, the department doesn't have enough officers to put someone in every school. The Syracuse Common Council will vote next week to approve the three-year deal between the department and the district. The reimbursement from the school district includes salary as well as compensation for pensions contributions and healthcare. It will increase each year to keep up with salary increases for officers. The school board approved the deal last month. Survivor: Don't talk about hearing like it's a sporting event To the Editor: As a privileged survivor of sexual violence, I feel compelled to share my experiences given the blazingly aggressive commentary surrounding the Ford/Kavanagh hearings. There are a million factors as to why or why not someone might wait to report sexual assault and to share the strong, scary and real negative impact of our commentaries questioning survivors. I am a survivor of sexual assault and rape in two different situations -- reporting within six months once I was able to collect enough evidence with the police and face it, and not reporting ever. I've experienced two of many ways to manage post-assault. Regardless of the truth of the case at hand, our commentaries, they matter. And unfortunately, the reality is there are exponentially more unreported cases and people struggling with past sexual trauma than there are people struggling due to false claims -- by a landslide. Age 18 was the first time I was raped. I've never reported it. At the time I was terrified, naive, lacked support or awareness I even had the option to report, but despite all that I believe I deserved the assault I incurred. That was almost 10 years ago. There are many reasons why I've never reported since, primarily not wanting to re-open old wounds that although they haunt me, I'm able to manage them. I'm trying to build a career and life and don't want to allow that man more of my thoughts and time. Moving forward with reporting sexual violence is an extremely stressful, emotional and torturous experience, even when you have all the evidence in the world. You're picked apart like a body on an operating table. However, if I found out that man who assaulted me when I was 18 was going to run for public office, let alone potentially be on the Supreme Court of my country, I'd hope that I had the strength and courage and respect for the people of my country and feel it was my civic duty to come forward, regardless of how much time had passed and how much pain, criticism, and time spent with my entire character under a microscope I knew I'd receive. Every time people discuss this hearing as if it's a national sporting event that we have any right to weigh in on, we (survivors) feel smaller, disregarded, and in fear of whether that person would believe us and our truths. If someone you know, love, work with seems "off" or out of it, they may be reliving the trauma and emotions of their own sexual assault or the pain, guilt and shame of being picked apart piece by piece by people discrediting their character and disregarding their worth, voice, and truth while trying to fight tooth and nail to be heard, do right, to fight. Be mindful while bringing up the Kavanaugh-Ford hearing in professional or personal settings. Christine Blasey Ford's case is not the latest weeknight drama, to be debated lightly over the office water cooler. Check in with your loved ones. Check in with yourself. Speak up, tune out -- do what you need to do to for yourself while the world turns a hearing about a sexual violence case into a sporting match. You're enough. Shannon Fabiani Syracuse Democrats show hypocrisy in pursuing sexual allegations To the Editor: In an obvious attempt to derail Judge Brett Kavanaugh's appointment to the Supreme Court, the Democrat obstructionists led by Sen. Dianne Feinstein have resorted to the #MeToo card where you are guilty until proven innocent. Kavanaugh has had an exemplary record as a professional and a human being his entire adult life and is undeserving of this partisan attack. For a moment, let us assume Christine Blasey Ford was groped by an immature teen during and underage drinking party 36 years ago. How does Feinstein and the rest measure that against a president using his position to engage in sexual relations with a White House intern? This was proven, not an empty allegation. When a top Democratic senator walked away from a young woman drowning in his car, he was not only allowed to keep his position in the senate, but was celebrated and given a hero's sendoff at his funeral. Even a blind man can see the partisan hypocrisy here. Bob Sgarlata Cicero Ask: Is Kavanaugh deserving of lifetime appointment? To the Editor: Amidst all the brouhaha over Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation, the "gorilla" question in the room is being submerged. With the testimony from Christine Blasey Ford, her anguish, her terse, straight-forward recounting of the sexual episode, the other individuals who spoke up knowing what had transpired 36 years ago, and the obvious male-dominated Judiciary Committee demonstrating a level of misogyny not seen in anyone other than our president, this most obvious question hangs in the air. Do we want this individual confirmed to sit on the Supreme Court for life? Kavanaugh and Sen. Mitch McConnell are not so dimwitted that they are dismissing Kavanaugh's long career as a political operative, better known as a "partisan hack." The committee has before it most of the memos Kavanaugh had written when working in George W. Bush's administration and before that time. These memos relate to explicit sexual questions to be asked of Bill Clinton, so raw that parents did not want to let their children listen to the news. Memos that relate to the cry of "weapons of mass destruction" (which was an untruth) that enabled Bush to begin an attack on the sovereign nation of Iraq. This led us into an era of permanent war. Memos that twist judicial prohibitions from within our society and from the international community that would enable our agencies -- CIA, NSA, and the military -- to foster and support torture of civilians and military of other nations. Kavanaugh is 53 years old; he has been working in this vein for over 25 years. Do we want this individual confirmed to sit on the Supreme Court for life? If you think voter suppression and gerrymandering of voting districts is bad now, just wait! If we see women dying from lack of legal abortion providers, just wait! If you are dismayed over corporate tax cuts that leave the middle class picked clean to pay for the minimum of government services, just wait! If you see the richest continue to pad their assets by legal means, becoming richer and richer, just wait! If you see unions and worker safety being shredded, just wait! If you see our Gini coefficient dropping into the numbers for developing nations, just wait! If you see our nation losing the respect of other global democratic nations, just wait! Do we want this individual confirmed to sit on the Supreme Court for life? The above paints such a dark picture for all of us at this juncture that it gives us shivers to think of our 250 glorious years as a democratic nation slowly slipping away. Americans still believe in the primary worth of every individual ... some better than others, though. But when one presents with the obvious disbelief of this prime directive, we have to wonder about our direction. Rosemarie Pagano Bundy Syracuse Kavanaugh cannot dispense blind justice To the Editor: We learned quite a few things about Brett Kavanaugh, nominated by President Trump to our Supreme Court. Unfortunately we learned that he is not well-suited to sit on the highest court in America. Why? Because "Justice" is supposed to be blind, weighing the balance between presented facts and the law without personal opinion or beliefs involved. Kavanaugh's introductory speech before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday was the direct opposite of a display of blind justice. It was chock full of uncontrolled anger and conveyed a feeling of entitlement that left a bitter taste in the listener's mouth. It repeatedly brought political partisanship into an arena where judicial restraint is required. Kavanaugh spoke at length about "a calculated and orchestrated political hit by left-wing political groups." He blamed Democrats for unfairly insisting upon a more thorough investigation into recent accusations leveled against him, citing a motive of "revenge" by "left-wing" political groups for both the Trump 2016 election win and Kavanaugh's role in dealing with the Clintons over the past 20 years. Whatever conclusions are reached from this new, short FBI investigation into the allegations against Kavanaugh, we now know one glaring fact: Brett Kavanaugh is incapable of separating his political beliefs from his judicial opinions, therefore Brett Kavanaugh does not have the judicial temperament necessary to follow the dictates of blind justice. Please do not put him on the Supreme Court! Kathleen S. D'Amico Cicero Kavanaugh lacks temperament for high court To the Editor: What Brett Kavanaugh's high school yearbook and testimony from Yale classmates (some friends) show is that Kavanaugh was a classic frat boy. That is not a crime. So was George W. Bush. But Bush owned up to it, winning a pass from voters. Kavanaugh's Trump-like performance after Christine Blasey Ford's calmness had him denying everything. If the FBI investigation merely reveals that he lied, he is not fit for the Supreme Court. The internet is full of dismissal of what happened to Christine Blasey Ford because there were no witnesses. Doesn't matter. Attempted rape is not the issue; judicial temperament is. The tears Kavanaugh shed were for his ruined life.. Karma had caught up with him but he chose to blame "Clinton revenge." Greek tragedies turn on events outside human control. This American tragedy is simply a case of decades of unchecked hubris. Sandy Miley Sherrill No one in this Shakespearean drama is 'squeaky-clean' To the Editor: All things on earth are a mixture of darkness and light, perfection and imperfection, paradoxes, contraries and polarities. Even the good things of this world are never fully good, but are subject to some degree of imperfection, wounding, foible and taint. When the media and general public yield to the altogether human temptation toward dualistic, either/or thinking by categorizing some persons as "good," or by condemning others as "bad," such perceptual acuity is called into question, blurred or downright eclipsed. In reality, those who bear the brightest lights often carry the darkest shadows - a paradox that most refuse to consider, let alone reconcile. The Dr. Jekylls/Cliff Huxtables of the world are not without their shadow-side Mr. Hyde's. Said president Harry Truman, "The only thing new in the world is the history that you don't know." The hypocrisy of the current Senate hearings and FBI investigation is that no candidate or person involved in these queries is squeaky-clean. Truth be told, if one wishes to dig deep enough, contradiction and imperfection are to be found everywhere and in everyone. Yes, even among those who hold the highest offices, as current circumstances reveal in our "higher" institutions of politics and religion, almost on a daily basis. The corruption of what is otherwise revered as" best" in our institutions, is the worst. While the word "supreme" (as in Supreme Court) is usually implies "highest, greatest or most excellent" according to Webster, it is also used in the contrary sense as in "supreme folly or baseness." In varying degrees, both are found together, sometimes in abundant measure. Apparently, Associate Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas dodged a sexual allegation bullet in his 1991 confirmation hearing. Brett Kavanaugh may not be so fortunate owing to the present age, where with the dark side of patriarchy is being widely exposed and less tolerated. While there are clear allegation differences in the cases of Thomas and Kavanaugh, the times, not the unsavory inner contradictions, may dictate the fate of the current candidate. While one man remains a judicial bench hero, the other, despite his sterling record as judge, may sooner become a benched goat. Said Shakespeare; "The evil men do lives after them; the good is often interred with their bones." Joe Masterleo Jamesville Howie Hawkins, the Green Party nominee for governor, says he's planning a series of four debates with Gov. Andrew Cuomo in every region of the state - including Syracuse - after the governor asked if he would organize the events. Hawkins, of Syracuse, said he's taking Cuomo's off-the-cuff remarks about debates seriously after the two talked backstage Saturday at the Global Citizen Festival in New York City. Hawkins, making his third bid for governor, said he ran into Cuomo as the governor was preparing to address the annual festival in Central Park that's dedicated to fighting global poverty. "I said, 'Hi, governor. I'm looking forward to our debates,'" Hawkins said. "He looked a little concerned and said, 'What debates?' And then he asked, 'Are you going to organize them?'" Since the five candidates for governor have not agreed on any debates, Hawkins said he decided to take on the task of organizing the events. Hawkins told the editorial board of Syracuse.com and The Post-Standard that he is proposing four regional debates -- one each in the New York City metropolitan area, the Capital District, Central New York and Western New York. Each debate would focus on a specific topic, Hawkins said. He has proposed focusing on the economy, government reform, the environment and climate, and social policy. The latter would cover education, health care, criminal justice and civil rights. Cuomo's campaign did not respond to requests for comment about the proposal. No debates are scheduled before the Nov. 6 election. Hawkins said the other third-party candidates -- former Syracuse Mayor Stephanie Miner and Libertarian Larry Sharpe -- seem receptive to his proposal. Republican Marc Molinaro has challenged Cuomo to one-on-one debates without the other candidates. On Wednesday, Molinaro accused Cuomo of "ducking one-on-one debates." Hawkins said he will move forward with his attempt to organize the debates, even if that means Cuomo and Molinaro won't attend. "We're running out of time," Hawkins said. "We have five weeks left. To do four debates would be quite a feat." Contact Mark Weiner: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751 What just happened? Security researchers at Netlab have outed a malware which has taken over a sizable number of internet routers in Brazil and is harvesting user login data to major financial institutions. A widespread infection of internet routers has taken place in South America, and has carried out massive phishing attacks on unsuspecting internet users, reveals research by security firm Netlab. A staggering 100,000 routers have been hijacked by the malicious code and are currently redirecting traffic to phishing sites that mimic landing pages for major banks, telcos, ISPs, media outlets and even Netflix. The malware (we're hesitant to call it a 'botnet',) has been named GhostDNS by the security firm, and consists of a combination of complex attack scripts which hijack router settings, replacing them with an alternative DNS service, which then proceed to direct traffic to 'cloned' login pages for major online services. The DNS redirection service is known as Rouge and is even running on a number of notable cloud hosting services like Amazon, OVH, Google, Telefonica and Oracle. Netlab is tracking the progress of the infection, and its inner workings, and has been in contact with service providers to shut down the network, which has been running the phishing scheme unopposed since mid-June this year. The firm provided a detailed diagram of how the attack works. The attack is carried out on four levels. A Web Admin System which scans the internet for vulnerable devices, followed by the DNSChanger which does as the name implies, backed up by RougeDNS, a network of DNS servers which then redirect to Phishing servers which host clones of well-known, secure, websites. The firm states that the payload is delivered via remote access exploits, and is capable of running over 100 attack scripts affecting more than 70 different types of routers, whose DNS are subject to the hijacking. Once your router is hacked, a typically innocuous trip to your bank turns into a phishing nightmare which harvests your user data, as the HTTP requests are maliciously redirected to cloned login pages. While the vast majority of infected routers are located in Brazil (numbering 87.8% of all infections), and the phishing clearly targets Brazilian companies, it is also present throughout South America, and tops over 100,000 infected routers. Netlab is working with major service providers in order to shore up their vulnerabilities and shut down the malicious DNS redirection servers which are driving users to phishing sites. Spamhaus.com rates Brazil an unenviable third place in the worldwide ranking of botnet infections, with a total 756,420 infected devices, behind India (1,485,933 infections) and China (with 1,666,901 infections). Microsoft's Surface event is underway, and we've already covered a few of Microsoft's more predictable product announcements. As you'd expect, the company has already unveiled updated versions of its Surface Book, Surface Pro, and Surface Studio devices, each with their own hardware and design improvements. However, Microsoft had a bit of a trick up its sleeve: the "Surface Headphones." As the relatively-straightforward name implies, the Surface Headphones are a pair of Microsoft-branded headphones with a simple, all-white aesthetic. This design lends credence to Microsoft's claim that the Headphones are ideal for just about anything, whether it's working in a more subdued office environment, traveling on the plane or train, or quietly sitting at home listening to music. Without trying the device for myself, I can't comment on how comfortable it may be. However, based on the video and images we've seen so far, the Surface Headphones seem to have some pretty well-cushioned earcups. Design aside, the Surface Headphones boast active and passive noise cancellation; up to 3dB for the former and up to 4dB for the latter. According to Microsoft, the headphones are very lightweight, coming in at about 0.64lb. The Headphones are also entirely wireless, with 15 hours of battery life. Though that number isn't quite as high as some other wireless headsets on the market, Microsoft's device can reach its full charge in "less than" 2 hours via a USB-C charging cable. Microsoft wants to make its Surface Headphones stand out with a few interesting features. For starters, you can adjust the level of noise cancellation the device offers by simply rotating a dial on the headphones' exterior. Additionally, pausing or playing audio is as easy as taking the headphones off your head or putting them on; it seems they'll automatically detect the movement. Furthermore, the device will feature built-in Cortana support. Just say "Hey Cortana," and the virtual assistant will begin speaking directly into your ears. In other words, your dreams of becoming Master Chief can finally become a reality. If Microsoft's foray into high-end headphones sounds like your cup of tea, the Surface Headphones will be available to US residents later this year for $350. Microsoft isn't taking pre-orders for the devices yet, but future buyers can sign up to be notified via email when they go on sale. The Surface Headphones will ship with a USB-C charging cable and a dedicated carrying case. Image courtesy Cnet In brief: As Facebook lurches from one PR disaster to another, the company finally has a little bit of good newsfor both it and its customers. Last week's attack that saw hackers steal account access tokens on at least 50 million users doesn't appear to have affected third-party apps such as Spotify, Tinder, and Airbnb. The vulnerability involved using the platforms view as and video uploader features to steal users' access tokens and take over their accounts. There were concerns that other apps which use Facebook Login might have also been affected, but it looks as if damage from the hack didnt reach this far. We have now analyzed our logs for all third-party apps installed or logged during the attack we discovered last week, said Guy Rosen, Facebooks vice president of product management, in an updated post. That investigation has so far found no evidence that the attackers accessed any apps using Facebook Login. Any developer using our official Facebook SDKs and all those that have regularly checked the validity of their users access tokens were automatically protected when we reset peoples access tokens, he added. Rosen said Facebook is building a tool to enable developers to manually identify the users of their apps who may have been affected, so that they can log them out. Its designed for those devs who dont use Facebooks developer tools. As noted by Reuters, Facebook might have been quick to put forward the hack's worst-case scenario as a way of complying with Europes recent General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) law. Five million people in Europe were affected by the breach, and if EU regulators find Facebook didnt do enough to protect its users, the company could face fines reaching up to $1.63 billion. Self-driving car tech may have seemed like a mere fantasy a couple decades ago, but now it's beginning to look like it will be the future of transportation. Despite a few prominent deaths involving self-driving vehicles, they're generally considered safer than their manually-controlled cousins. As such, it's no surprise to see many modern car manufacturers implement the AI-driven technology into their vehicles. General Motors (GM) is one such company, due to the efforts of its self-driving car tech division Cruise. Today, Japanese carmaker Honda announced that it will be teaming up with GM to give Cruise a bit of a boost. Honda will "work jointly" with Cruise and GM to invest roughly $2 billion into their autonomous driving efforts. The money will be disbursed over the course of 12 years. Honda isn't stopping there, though. The company will also make a $750 million "equity investment" in Cruise, bringing Honda's total contribution to $2.75 billion. The goal of this partnership is to "fund and develop" a "purpose-built" autonomous vehicle that can serve a "wide variety of use cases." Honda also implies that they want to make an awful lot of these mystery vehicles, for "global deployment." "Honda chose to collaborate with Cruise and General Motors based on their leadership in autonomous and electric vehicle technology and our shared vision of a zero-emissions and zero-collision world," Honda's executive VP Seiji Kuraishi said in a statement. "We will complement their strengths through our expertise in space efficiency and design to develop the most desirable and effective shared autonomous vehicle." It's not entirely clear what Kuraishi means by "leadership" - there are many other companies, such as Google, that are arguably making much greater strides in the realm of self-driving car tech than GM. However, it's evident that Honda believes in the future of the tech, and doesn't want to be left in the dust. Latching onto the work an already-established company in the self-driving industry -- such as Cruise -- is a wise move. A 29-year-old surfer from New Jersey passed away because of a brain-eating amoeba after taking a dip into a wave pool in Texas. Fabrizio Stabile tested positive for Naegleria fowleri, a rare but deadly amoeba that typically thrives in fresh warm water. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC ) is currently testing the water at the BSR Cable Park's Surf Resort in Waco, Central Texas for the brain-eating amoeba. Surfer Dead The surfer started experiencing symptoms when he returned to his home in Atlantic County. While mowing the lawn on Sunday, Sept. 16, Stabile experienced a severe headache. Thinking that it was a normal headache, he took a medicine and slept through the night. However, by Monday morning, the headache has not gone away. On the same day, he could not get out of bed. His mother phoned 911 and he was brought to the hospital. Doctors initially thought that he has bacterial meningitis because of his symptoms (brain swelling and fever), but he was not responding to treatment. So, he was tested for several other illnesses until he was diagnosed with Naegleria fowleri. By the time he was tested positive with the amoeba, it was too late for the only available medication, which was only used in three known survivors in North America, to be administered. Stabile died on Sept. 21 at the Atlantic City Medical Center. Brain-Eating Amoeba According to the CDC, Naegleria fowleri can cause a rare infection of the brain called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. It can be found in warm freshwaters such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs, but sometimes, it also exists in heavily chlorinated public pools or heated tap water. A person can be contaminated with the amoeba while swimming or diving. Infection happens when the Naegleria fowleri enters the nose and travel to the brain where it causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. From 2008 to 2017, only 34 infections have been reported in the United States. Brain-Eating Amoeba From Texas Resort The CDC will continue to investigate the surf resort in Waco. One other person who visited the water park has also reportedly been infected by the amoeba. "The CDC collected water samples and are currently investigating to find the source. We hope to have results by the end of the week," stated spokesperson for Waco-McLennan County Public Health District, Kelly Craine. The resort remained closed on Sunday, Sept. 30, as public health officials continue to look for the source of the amoeba. However, Stuart E. Parsons Jr., the owner of the surf resort, said that they will continue to comply with the investigations. A GoFundMe Campaign was started on behalf of Stabile to bring awareness to Naegleria fowleri. It hopes to collect $50,000. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Samantha Markle, the half-sister of the Meghan Markle, has apologized to her in an appearance on the Jeremy Vine talk show. In her dramatic apology, the 53-year-old expressed guilt over how she took their situation and issued a statement addressed directly to the Duchess of Sussex. She stated that she thinks there is so much water under the bridge and she never meant to spin things out of control. Samantha Markle's Dramatic Apology "And you know, I think everybody was hurt not being included or invited to the wedding, but I felt as though it could have all been nipped in the bud had everyone been included, and we all just agreed to move forward with positive resolve," she said, adding that it does not mean that they love their royal sister any less. Samantha also claimed that families can have problems when they are hurt and there is confusion. She also mentioned that she hopes things could change and they can clear up their conflicts and move forward. The older Markle even visited Buckingham Palace hoping to see her sister even though Meghan and Prince Harry are residing at Kensington Palace, which is miles away. Additionally, a source said that the Duchess of Sussex will not be watching any of her interviews. However, she will be briefed on what her sister says daily. "Quite frankly, at this point it really does not matter what Samantha says, Meghan really has no desire to resume any kind of relationship with her," the source added. Samantha has publicly talked about her half-sister in interviews ever since her relationship with Prince Harry started. She has even tweeted undesirable things about the famous couple. Meghan Markle's Relationship With Her Father Notably, the Duchess's father, Thomas, has appeared in TV multiple times despite claiming that they do not want any attention from the media. Thomas has accused the former Suits actress of cutting him out form his life despite knowing that he was immensely sick. According to the source, the situation with Meghan's father is different from Samantha because she loves her dad very much. However, he was just manipulated into behaving in an unsuitable way. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The World Health Organization revealed on Tuesday, Oct. 2, that the cholera outbreak in Yemen is getting worse, with 10,000 new cases reported every week. Cholera Outbreak Tarik Jasarevic, the spokesperson for WHO, said that the suspected cholera cases reported into September rose to 185,160. In comparison, from January to August, the suspected cholera cases reached 154,527. "We have been seeing the number of cholera cases increasing in Yemen since June," he stated. "This increase has been even more important in the last three weeks." In the first week of September alone, nearly 11,000 suspected cases were reported. Public health officials blame the rapid increase of cholera cases in Yemen to the Saudi Arabia-United Arab Emirates military offensive in June that damaged sanitation facilities and water stations. The most affected area, Hodeidah, a port city, saw a significant increase in suspected cases of cholera, from 497 in June to 1,342 in August. "The situation in Hodeidah has become unbearable because of the conflict," said Save the Children Hodeidah field manager, Mariam Aldogani. " I'm seeing more and more children coming in with suspected cholera." WHO said that children account for 30 percent of cholera infections. On the other hand, the U.N. Children's Fund said that 1.8 million children in Yemen are malnourished and vulnerable to the disease. A cholera outbreak was declared in Yemen in April 2017. Around 1.2 million suspected cases have been reported so far, with over 2,500 people dead. The war in the region started in 2014 when the Houthis took over the majority of the country, including its capital Sanaa. A year later, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates launched air raids in an attempt to reinstate President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. Solving The Cholera Outbreak In Yemen The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that cholera can be treated with rehydration therapy (restoration of lost fluids and salts) and by taking antibiotics. However, Tamer Kirolos, the country director of Save The Children in Yemen, said that the ongoing war in the region has caused the near-collapse of the health care system, making it a lot more challenging for them to control the outbreak. WHO continues to administer vaccinations in Hodeidah in the hopes of extending the program to the rest of the country. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. BURNSIDE Brett Blanchard was making his case against a planned roundabout in Ascension Parish to a state highway employee at a recent public meeting on the plans. How, Blanchard wondered, would he be able to maneuver his big truck and long trailer out onto La. 44 from Loosemore Road if the state built a new roundabout at the busy intersection? Built without traffic lights, roundabouts are circular, one-way intersections designed to encourage continuous traffic flow but also to lessen speeds. Living in a booming section of Ascension at the southern boundary of Gonzales, the 47-year-old Blanchard and other residents who live off dead-end Loosemore an area just north of the Pelican Point subdivision have complained for several years about the continuous stream of rush hour traffic on La. 44. They say they fear the roundabout will only worsen their situation. Can't see video below? Click here. Residents said they can't get out of Loosemore without the kindness of another driver or a dangerous flirtation with oncoming traffic moving at 55 mph. Only drivers on Loosemore and La. 941 have a stop sign. "They just roll no matter what," Blanchard told the state employee of La. 44 traffic. "They just roll." State highway officials recently unveiled revised plans for the roundabout during an open house at the parish Governmental Complex in Gonzales. The roundabout will be slightly south of the current La. 44/Loosemore intersection to avoid at least 10 underground pipelines that could otherwise require spending millions of dollars to relocate them, said Rodney Mallett, spokesman for the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. With that shift, part of La. 941 will be eliminated and curved south to a new Loosemore/La. 44 intersection. The current plan is a modification of a similar proposal put forward last year. The two-lane roundabout will be built as La. 44 is also widened to four lanes from I-10 to just south of the future Loosemore intersection. Another roundabout is planned on La. 44 just north of the intersection. The developers of the Oak Lake and Conway subdivisions are building that roundabout. DOTD has promoted roundabouts in outlying parishes like St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Livingston and Ascension over the past decade as a fix for clogged intersections that transportation officials say also brings safety benefits and cost savings. In fact, DOTD recently started work on another one near Sorrento. The intersections eliminate left-hand turns that can lead to deadly "T-bone" crashes, are thought to cost less to maintain and to last longer than traffic lights. DOTD regularly points to federal highway data showing that, compared with intersections with a traffic light, roundabouts cut fatal crashes by 90 percent and injury crashes by 76 percent. In an interview, Blanchard and his wife, Lorrie, 46, said they understood all that but worried how they would get onto La. 44. "So we ask, instead of doing all this construction and acquiring this land, put a (traffic) light," Brett Blanchard said. "That's all we're asking for. A light stops the traffic and gives me the right of way to come out. I don't have to rely on people's courtesy." DOTD officials have pointed out, however, that even with the strong rush hour flow on La. 44, the Loosemore intersection doesn't meet the eight-hour standard for a traffic light. Yet, adding four-way traffic control could cause major backups on La. 44 during those rush hours. Roundabouts are also structured so the entry roads often curve before the intersection to slow traffic and create gaps so other vehicles can enter, DOTD officials said. Jean-Paul Robert, a local lawyer who lives on La. 44 about a quarter-mile south of the current Loosemore intersection, had the roundabout proposed near his house last year, but DOTD shifted the roundabout to the north away from his home amid local opposition. Robert said the state agency was trying to fit a more complicated, expensive fix where a traffic light seemed to be the simpler solution that would avoid major land conflicts. Top stories in Baton Rouge in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up "A light is what makes sense," he said. Despite opposition from some at a Sept. 25 open house meeting to gather public input, DOTD officials said the concerns about roundabouts often stem from a lack of familiarity. They said their surveys show opinion usually flips to strong support once people become more accustomed to navigating them. See Walker's new I-12 roundabout in action; residents, police call it 'confusing' A new roundabout installed at the Interstate 12 interchange in Walker to improve safety and efficiency is doing the opposite, many residents a Ascension Parish has had a state-built roundabout at La. 42 and La. 431 in the parish's northeast corner near Port Vincent for years without major incident. Local officials have praised roundabouts built more recently outside Denham Spring. Other roundabouts, though, have drawn sharp criticism. Dual Livingston Parish roundabouts were installed last year on each end of the I-12/La. 447 interchange in Walker. Capt. John Sharp, of the Walker Police Department, said that since August 2017, the two roundabouts have had 136 accidents combined. Though mostly fender-benders, Sharp said the total represents a major increase from past years. DOTD data from prior-year accidents supports this contention. Sharp said the roundabouts, which are still under construction, had specific sign and design issues that have exacerbated the problems. He added that not enough has been done to educate drivers. In my opinion, theres not anything inherently wrong with the roundabout concept," Sharp said. "It relies on, substantially on, motorist compliance and understanding, and we hear a lot of people who just dont understand the concept. DOTD has made tweaks that Sharp said have helped, including changes to the timing of a traffic light north of the interchange, but other problems remain. Among them, traffic circles that are so tight it makes it hard for trucks and other vehicles with a high center of gravity to negotiate at higher speeds. The circles also lack an enforceable speed limit and adequate lighting, Sharp said. Yet, Mallett, the DOTD spokesman, provided data showing the roundabouts had eliminated traffic waiting on I-12 to get off the interstate highway at the interchange, a major safety hazard. Also, a traffic study conducted for DOTD in 2014 in anticipation of the Walker roundabouts showed the state would get better traffic improvement with roundabouts than with traffic lights for a cost that was about $1 million less. The workers at Swiftys gas station on La. 447 just south of the I-12 interchange in Walker said they have seen a lot of improvement. During rush hours, La. 447 carries school buses and car-pool traffic from two public schools and workers commuting to and from plants on the Mississippi River. Nickie Penny, 35, and Rebecca Creel, 34, the gas station manager and assistant manager, said when there was a traffic light, they couldn't leave the parking lot between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. When the light was there, there was traffic backed up for days, Creel said, as Penny chimed in to finish the last part of her sentence. The light is gone, traffic is moving better, and the store workers have traffic gaps to escape, the women said. Some Ascension residents have accepted that a roundabout is likely the fix for Loosemore but are concerned it wont go out for bid until 2021. Kristie Pickering, 44, who also lives off Loosemore, has formed a Facebook group, Safety for 44, with her neighbors. They are lobbying for changes until the roundabout is built. The changes they are seeking for now include a temporary traffic light at Loosemore, a reduction in the speed limit on La. 44 from 55 mph to 45 mph and adjustments to La. 44 traffic lights to create gaps in the traffic at Loosemore. "For all of these homes, theres one way in and one way out, and its all right here, she said. THIBODAUX, La. (AP) A professor in Louisiana is cooking up a class inspired by the late globe-trotting food chronicler Anthony Bourdain. News outlets report the three-credit course titled "Anthony Bourdain and His Influencers" will be offered at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, starting in spring 2019. Students will compare some of Bourdain's most famous work with the writings and films that influenced him. The class was the brainchild of Todd Kennedy, who heads the university's film department. Kennedy says he admired how Bourdain helped audiences understand the countries he visited by quoting literature and making references to films he had seen about those places. Kennedy thought it would be worth teaching to others. The 61-year-old Bourdain killed himself in June in France, where he was working on an episode of his CNN series, "Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown." +2 Anthony Bourdain, famed chef and beloved TV host, found dead in hotel room Celebrity chef and television host Anthony Bourdain was found dead in a French hotel room Friday morning. The Baton Rouge parks department, which last month formally appealed ExxonMobil's property tax bill and claimed the petrochemical giant's property had been under-assessed by $338 million, abruptly dropped its challenge Wednesday. "After filing the appeal, we were informed by the Board of Review that the calculation was correct, and we will accept that determination," BREC Superintendent Carolyn McKnight said in a statement. BREC had taken the unusual step of formally challenging ExxonMobil's property tax assessment in late September, weeks after the community group Together Baton Rouge questioned why the oil-and-gas giant's property value fell 4 percent from $1.45 billion to $1.39 billion between last year and this year. If left uncorrected, Together Baton Rouge and BREC said, an under-assessment amounting to $338 million would cost local agencies $5 million in lost tax revenue. Together Baton Rouge reached a different assessment figure by looking at additions made to ExxonMobil's properties and considering the expiration of some tax exemptions. It said the assessment should have gone up. The Metro Council, which is the first stop for property tax appeals, upheld the assessment at a meeting last week, with little discussion. BREC spokeswoman Cheryl Michelet said the agency has not received further explanation on how ExxonMobil's property assessments were reached, but said the board could explain the decision. Board members did not return messages Wednesday. Together Baton Rouge on Wednesday urged its supporters to email BREC commissioners and request the agency continue the appeal process. The group also said Baton Rouge Area Chamber and BREC Commissioner Mike Walker were engaged in a "pressure campaign" to get BREC to drop the challenge. BRAC denied being involved in such a campaign, and Walker did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment. While BREC said it will not take the appeal to the tax commission, ExxonMobil has still not yet explained exactly why its properties are decreasing in value by so much. Together Baton Rouge's analysis, which had been echoed by BREC in its appeal, identified at least $216.7 million that was "omitted and unexplained." The depreciation rates calculated by Together Baton Rouge put the under-assessment somewhere between 17 percent and 18 percent over the year, even when accounting for $151 million in additions last year eligible for tax exemptions. In a statement Wednesday, ExxonMobil spokeswoman Megan Manchester said "by openly sharing any and all data relative to our valuation with the public, we would be releasing confidential information to business and industrial competitors." "Moreover, releasing certain information that the state Legislature has explicitly deemed confidential would be precedent-setting. This would subject us and thousands of other taxpayers across the state to fishing expeditions that are not supported by the tax laws," she said. The Advocate had requested more detailed explanations for the decrease in property value in recent weeks, but ExxonMobil has only said there are "numerous property-specific characteristics" considered in finding accurate market value on complex properties, and added that with a facility that is nearly 110 years old and containing thousands of pieces of taxable equipment, estimating fair market value is "complex." Manchester also said "it is clear" Together Baton Rouge tried to influence BREC to file an appeal, and ExxonMobil expressed disappointment to BREC for not reaching out to the firm before filing the appeal. Manchester said ExxonMobil made no communication to BREC asking officials to withdraw the appeal. The appeal came as ExxonMobil is seeking a separate tax break through the Industrial Tax Exemption Program on a potential half-a-billion-dollar expansion of its polyolefins plant. BREC received "credible information" from Together Baton Rouge on the discrepancy of ExxonMobil's assessments for its chemical plant, refinery, polyolefins plant and plastics plant, McKnight said. Therefore, BREC had a responsibility to ensure the assessments were correct. BREC would lose out on an estimated $700,000 in tax revenue, according to the analysis. Top stories in Baton Rouge in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up BREC was keeping its promise to "leave no stone unturned" as it embarked on several projects, including the "reimagination" of the Baton Rouge Zoo and Greenwood Community Park and others, McKnight said. "We look forward to working with the greater Baton Rouge business community to bring these projects to fruition," McKnight said. Adam Knapp, CEO of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber, which has fought with Together Baton Rouge for years over the state's Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP), said in a statement that Together Baton Rouge has singled out and "attacked" ExxonMobil repeatedly and "hid behind anonymity" for the tax assessment appeal. While Together Baton Rouge first publicly raised the questions about ExxonMobil's property tax assessment, BREC formally filed the challenge. Knapp said companies should be afforded an opportunity to respond when accused of anything, and questioned whether East Baton Rouge would "put up with these kinds of tactics" if ExxonMobil wasn't one of the largest companies in the world. BRAC spokeswoman Kelly Bienn said in an email that "we waged no pressure campaign except to issue a commentary shedding light on the deceptive tactics TBR employed to bring forth this latest accusation." Together Baton Rouge said in a statement: More than $300 million appears to have gone missing from the property tax rolls. That erodes funding for public services and drives up property taxes for every household and small-business in our parish. Taxpayers ought to demand answers. Metro Councilmen Scott Wilson and Matt Watson, who were the only ones to make comments about the BREC/ExxonMobil ordeal when it came before the rest of Metro Council last week, on Wednesday denied having any knowledge of political pressure being placed on the city-parishs parks and recreation department. Wilson, the brother of parish Assessor Brian Wilson, went on to express disappointment in how BREC handled the issue, even chiding officials with the parks department for not being forthcoming about how they arrived at the notion that ExxonMobils property assessment might have been wrong. Theyre getting over $60 million in taxpayer money already and wanting to get another $700,000 because they claim they were wrong? he said. Yes, it was their right to contest it, but I think it was strange how it all came out. Lloyd Benson Jr., chairman of BRECs Board of Commissioners, said in an email Wednesday said he was unavailable to comment because of a family emergency. Metro Council upholds ExxonMobil assessment, sheriff OKs tax exemption The East Baton Rouge Metro Council on Wednesday upheld the property assessment for ExxonMobil's Baton Rouge facilities, despite an appeal from In its email to supporters early Wednesday, Together Baton Rouge said "Basically, they appear to be saying: Stop asking questions...If BREC bows to that pressure, the assessment, as-is, would be finalized in mid-October, and we'll never find out what happened to the $338 million in property value that appears to be missing. McKnight spearheaded the challenge and informed BREC commissioners about it the day it was filed. BREC's board did not vote on the move. East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Deputy Nick Tullier was taken to a hospital Tuesday after he was having trouble breathing because of pneumonia-like symptoms, Tullier's father, James, said. For several months, Nick Tullier has been battling breathing issues, needing mucus suctioned daily from his lungs. Last week, James Tullier said doctors asked Nick Tullier to start using a home ventilator system to assist in breathing. After trying the machine, James Tullier said his son "wouldn't breathe on his own" after taking the ventilator off. As of Tuesday night, Nick Tullier was breathing on his own with a ventilator assisting him in a Houston emergency room. On Sept. 25, Nick Tullier's family celebrated 800 days of survival since the deputy was shot multiple times in an ambush on Baton Rouge law enforcement in July 2016. Nick Tullier been undergoing extensive treatment and rehab in Texas, where he has made remarkable progress but still struggles with basic tasks such as forming words and moving his limbs. James Tullier offers daily updates on his son's progress via Facebook. WASHINGTON Top-ranking senators have no plans to show the American public the results of the FBIs week-long probe into sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Thats not how Sen. John Kennedy, R-Louisiana, would handle it. Kennedy said Tuesday that Senate GOP leaders ought to take the highly unusual step of publicly releasing the FBIs background investigation into Kavanaugh to offer voters a look at what FBI investigators turned up about allegations of sexual misconduct against Kavanaugh from his high school and college years in the 1980s. In my opinion, this is a very unusual circumstance and the American people need to know whats in the report, Kennedy said. John Kennedy says he'll vote for Kavanaugh; vote on Senate floor delayed WASHINGTON Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy said Friday he will vote to confirm Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, saying he believes the jud Both Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky, and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said Tuesday theyre planning to keep the report under wraps and offer only U.S. senators and a handful of top aides the chance to view it. Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California, the top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee, has likewise asked for the report to be kept private. Kennedy, a first-term senator and the most junior Republican on the committee, will have little sway over the final decision. Can't see video below? Click here. The scoop on state politics in your inbox Get the Louisiana politics insider details once a week from us. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up But Kennedy told The Advocate on Tuesday that holding the report back from public release wouldnt keep details confidential though would likely continue to fuel partisan battles over Kavanaughs nomination and the allegations against the judge. If you just limit it to senators where you have to go by Sen. Grassleys office and read the report, I can tell you unfortunately whats going to happen, Kennedy said. Youre going to have some senators leak the excerpts that are favorable to their position and take things out of context. Kennedy also fired back at calls from Feinstein and other Democrats to delay a planned Friday confirmation vote for Kavanaugh, which would fall on the same day as a White House-imposed deadline for the FBI investigation. Any vote, even if we had a vote a light year from now, would be too soon for Sen. Feinstein. Her mind is made up, Kennedy said. Kennedy, whos declared his support for Kavanaugh and disbelief in the allegations against him, said senators need to woman up and man up to vote on Kavanaughs nomination. Kennedy has said any new evidence turned up by the FBI might change his stance but he again cast doubt Tuesday on whether any new evidence will be forthcoming from this probe. As soon as we get the results of this report and have a chance to digest it and the American people have a chance to see it, its time to vote, Kennedy said. I dont think this is any longer a search for the truth. I think this is cynical gamesmanship. In this Dec. 22, 2017, file photo President Donald Trump signs into law a $1.5 trillion tax overhaul package in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. New rules floated by the Trump administration lay out what kinds of businesses can take a 20 percent deduction against income taxes under the new tax law. With the proposed rules issued Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2018, the Treasury Department and the IRS had worked for six months to bring clarity to Congress' blueprint. Our Views: The state's surplus is good news, but don't get too used to it New Orleans visitors spent nearly $9 billion in the city in 2017. But so few of those dollars support the vast service industry and cultural economy that draws those dollars and takes care of the more than 18 million visitors who spend them, illustrating a deep divide between hospitality workers and the citys crucial economic engine. +4 Shift change: How New Orleans hospitality workers are organizing their industry On a chilly evening just before Thanksgiving, about a dozen New Orleans Hospitality Workers Committee (NOHWC) members were gathered around a l Workers and culture groups and New Orleans service industry union are asking city officials to work towards a sustainable tourism model for the citys largest economic driver, one that ensures better wages, health care, fair scheduling and workplace protections from sexual harassment and wage theft. Gabriel Bolden, chapter vice president for UNITE HERE Local 23 and an employee of the unionized Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, said shes fortunate to have a union job with fair wages and a comprehensive health care plan, but many people in the hospitality and restaurant industry do not have that privilege. Our people deserve the right to health care, respect and a fair living wage, she said. A proposal also calls for an improved affordable public transit service that links workers to employment, including the citys hospitals and downtown restaurants and hotels. Advocates also are asking for the citys support behind workforce training and local hiring programs and apprenticeships and for better overall representation at City Hall, with people from hospitality and cultural backgrounds sitting on often-influential boards and commissions, including the newly expanded Human Relations Advisory Commission and powerful entities like the Economic Development Advisory Commission, the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority, the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Commission and the New Orleans Business Alliance. Representatives from Step Up Louisiana, UNITE HERE, the Music and Culture Coalition of New Orleans (MaCCNO) and Loyola Universitys Workplace Justice Center asked members of the New Orleans City Council Oct. 2 to consider how city officials can better leverage public dollars to support the thousands of workers they represent. People say when tourism succeeds, everyone succeeds, said Step Up Louisianas Ben Zucker. In the New Orleans economy were finding that to be less and less true. Organizing efforts among the city's service industry have had recent wins unionizing hotels and gaining traction inside City Hall, which pledged support for a health care program after organizers crashed a tourism board meeting earlier this year. But those gains still face a steep climb as the city struggles to support a massive tourism and hospitality workforce facing rising costs of living, stagnant wages, a lack of affordable housing, and what advocates say is an inadequate public transit footprint. Council members, business leaders call for health care, 'fairness' for hospitality workers At a news conference that was thin on specifics but signaled support for rank-and-file workers in the city's most prominent industry, New Orle Orleans Parish has the largest inequitable divide in the state, according to Erika Zucker with Loyolas Workplace Justice Center, pointing to 1 percent of the city earning 29 percent more than the bottom 99 percent. More than half of New Orleans residents are the so-called working poor as determined by the United Ways measure of people in Louisiana living below a asset-limited, income-constrained and employed, or ALICE, threshold. Jobs in tourism, hospitality, retail and culture account for more than half of all jobs paying $1,250 or less, according to Zucker. Roughly 15,000 people work as servers earning tipped wages, often starting at a base pay of $2.13 from their employer. Those industries also increasingly mirror a gig economy, often with inconsistent schedules and no safety nets or benefits, including sick leave. What if Louisiana nixed its tipped minimum wage? In a surprise result earlier this month and against the opposition of the restaurant industry and many elected officials Washington, D.C. Those kinds of environments make them ripe for sexual harassment, according to pay equity advocate Julie Schwam Harris, who points to the over-representation of women in low-wage hospitality jobs and the disproportionate number of filings of Equal Employment Opportunity Commission complaints by women. Harris also argued that the often racist and sexist history of tipping in the U.S. continues to resonate in tipped-wage jobs, reinforcing the power imbalance between men and women in the workplace. We are shamed, blamed, more fearful of reprisal for speaking out on these things, Harris said. Members of the City Councils Economic Development Committee were receptive to the coalitions pitch, though Zucker added that these kinds of policy and cultural changes are not possible without all the right people at the table. I do not feel like we can increase the tourism base without offsetting the negative impacts, said District C Councilmember Kristin Gisleson Palmer, adding that if benefits to the tourism industry arent taking into account its employees quality of life, we have to think whether this industry is really supportive of its workers. MaCCNO director Ethan Ellestad said the former New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau, now New Orleans & Company, had turned down MaCCNOs pitch to help distribute its Good Visitor Guide, a brochure outlining tipping etiquette and how visitors should approach Mardi Gras Indians, second lines, street performers and pass-the-hat performances in venues. 'Ban the box' and living wage rules a preview of New Orleans, statewide fight for better wages Efforts to enforce the citys living wage ordinance and ensure formerly incarcerated people have a fair shot of employment are priming New Orl Palmer and District B Councilmember Jay Banks said theyll work to correct that. No pot of red beans has ever cooked itself, said District B Councilmember Jay Banks. There is no magic about the longitude and latitude [attracting people to] New Orleans. Its the culture. Palmer also suggested hotels include a video reiterating the guides points that plays in hotel room TVs. But her No. 1 priority is ensuring people who work in the citys service industry are able to get there, and that they have a safe place to wait for that ride. New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operator Transdev has budgeted for 50 shelters this year, but it has 309 shelters at its 2,200 stops. Palmer also suggested adding circulator park-and-ride buses connecting people to areas dense with service jobs, and to require developers include bus shelters as part of their building projects in the same way that they often are required to install bike racks and parking. We have to re-envision how the city provides services to our workers, Palmer said. Humanity and equity for service workers riding the bus, thats the No. 1 thing we need to talk about. For food lovers, the New Orleans calendar presents a delicious intersection of events this weekend. Heres a look at whats in store at Beignet Fest, the Muffuletta Festival and the new Backyard BBQ event benefiting the Crescent City Farmers Market. Beignets all day, every way Context is everything. Just consider the beignet. On its own, its a dollop of fried dough. But put it in its proper context in New Orleans, in a haze of powdered sugar, about to be in your belly it is an edible icon of a city, a bucket-list taste for visitors, a ritual passed down through generations of families. These days, the French doughnut is also the inspiration for Beignet Fest, returning Saturday to the City Park Festival Grounds. This annual event simultaneously taps the classic appeal of the beignet for a charitable fundraiser and takes the idea of the beignet on a boundless romp, from boudin-stuffed beignets to vegan, gluten-free beignets. Beignet Fest is a project of the Tres Doux Foundation, a nonprofit that supports local autism programs. Proceeds from the festival help fund its grants. Now in its third year, the event has many familiar local festival features live music, art and craft vendors, kids' activities. It also stakes out its own turf with a time frame custom-cut for families. Beginning at 10 a.m., it can qualify as an easy brunch or even a play date in the park; ending at 6 p.m., you wont miss anything when you head home for the kiddos bedtime. Of 19 food vendors, only one, New Orleans Coffee & Beignet Co., will serve traditional beignets (Cafe du Monde will also be on hand for the VIP area). From there, the menu splits almost equally between sweet and savory beignets. Some are proven hits, having hauled in awards at previous editions of the Beignet Fest, like the bacon and cheddar beignets from the Howlin Wolf or beignets with crawfish cream sauce from Legacy Kitchen. The Oreo beignet, a staple on the menu at the Uptown sandwich shop Luca Eats, has twice now won the events award for best sweet beignet. Its back again this year too. Beignet Fest When: Oct. 6, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Where: City Park Festival Grounds Details: admission is free; VIP tickets are available for $40 ($20 for ages 4-20). See beignetfest.com. The classic muffuletta meets Creole-Italian creativity With festivals growing bigger, and the local festival calendar getting more crowded, there was something refreshingly different about the debut last year of the Muffuletta Festival in Old Metairie. On paper, it seemed to follow the standard recipe for a New Orleans food festival: Start with a familiar dish, bank on built-in name recognition and round up some restaurants and vendors to riff on it. But the way Muffuletta Festival came together, it felt more like a street fair or a saints feast day. It returns Sunday in the same format. Rather than a park, this event is held on the street between Nor-Joe Imports, the Italian deli that started it, and the railroad tracks running through its neighborhood. Men in aprons grilled Italian sausage by outdoor tents, families queued up to shop the specialty groceries inside the store, the Italian beer and prosecco flowed, and Louis Prima numbers zooma-zooma-ed from a little stage. Thanks to the mix of vendors who sign up, and the local crowd that turned up, the Muffuletta Festival became a proxy show of Sicilian pride and Creole-Italian creativity, a halfway-to-St. Joseph's Day scene of Italian culture in New Orleans. Food and restaurant news in your inbox Every Thursday we give you the scoop on NOLA dining. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up For year two, the festival grounds will expand another block along the railroad tracks to spread out the food booths and music stage a bit more. Of course, the mighty muffuletta itself will be well represented again. Nor-Joe is fielding them, cut into quarters for festival snacking. Many other dishes are also configured for the festival, like meatballs on a stick, grilled artichokes, muffuletta pasta and a muffuletta-stuffed artichoke, festooned with the traditional sandwich fillings. There will be a gelato trailer and Italian ice as well. Muffuletta Festival When: Oct.7, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Where: Nor-Joe Imports, 504 Frisco Ave. Admission is free; VIP tickets are available for $79 (with reserved seating, beer, cocktails and snacks included) and $20 (for reserved seating). Farmers market gathers a harvest of chefs Farmers markets represent personal, hand-to-hand commerce in an increasingly push-button, track-my-delivery kind of world. A visit can do more than fill your pantry. It can refresh your confidence that, when it comes to our food, people and place still matter. The Crescent City Farmers Market puts this on vivid display at five different market locations, gathering local shoppers and producers to create weekly regional food hubs under their umbrellas and across their vendor tables. On Sunday, at a new food event and fundraiser, the market and its supporters will also show that the energy of these interactions can be portable too. Backyard BBQ is a benefit for the Crescent City Farmers Market and its outreach programs, which debuts this year at Central City BBQ, bringing a wide range of the farmers market community along for the festivities. Hemmed by repurposed shipping containers, this restaurants grounds cover roughly half a block and regularly host events. For Backyard BBQ, this unique space will be a farm-to-table showcase with food from local restaurants, beer and spirits from local makers, live music and autumn-themed kids activities. Participating restaurants come from different corners of the modern New Orleans dining scene. They include Beth Biundo Sweets, Bittersweet Confections, Boucherie, Carmo, Central City BBQ, Echo's Pizza, Frencheeze, Gabrielle, Luvi, Marjie's Grill, Revel, Saba and Squeezed. Backyard BBQ, benefiting the Crescent City Farmers Market Where: Central City BBQ, 1233 S. Rampart St. When: Oct. 7, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Details: Tickets include all food and drink and start at $60 ($5 for children age 5-12). Get them at Crescent City Farmers Market welcome tents, by phone at 504-861-4485 or online at crescentcityfarmersmarket.org. The owner of a Slidell construction firm caught up in a federal investigation into First NBC Bank founder Ashton Ryan Jr. is set to plead guilty to a charge of conspiring to defraud the failed New Orleans bank. Jeffrey Dunlap, 45, will change his plea to guilty on Oct. 17, according to court records. That will make him the first person convicted in connection with the bank's stunning $1 billion collapse in April 2017. He is accused of filing bogus paperwork with Ryans knowledge to secure a line of credit from First NBC that eventually topped $22 million. Ryan was allegedly extending the loans even as Ryan's own debts to a company owned by Dunlap mounted. Dunlaps decision to plead guilty is not a surprise. When he was initially charged, in May, the charge came in a bill of information rather than from a grand jury, generally a sign that a defendant has worked out a plea deal. And his lawyer, Walter Becker, signaled at the time that a guilty plea was coming, telling reporters that Mr. Dunlap accepts responsibility for his actions and is working toward a resolution with the government." Its not clear why it has taken five months for Dunlap to be re-arraigned. Typically, those charged in bills of information plead guilty within weeks. Becker said Tuesday that there was "nothing peculiar" about the delay. When Dunlap does enter his guilty plea, hell have to sign whats known as a factual basis. Its a summary of the case against the defendant, in which the defendant must admit certain conduct. Whats contained within that document can have a major impact on a defendants sentence. Prosecutors have charged that Dunlap gave First NBC bogus or misleading documents, such as inflated accounts receivables, to support his requests for loans. Dunlap did so at the behest of Ryan, who needed the paperwork to extend the loans, according to the government. Meanwhile, Ryan in a private business venture was busy piling up a multimillion-dollar debt to Dunlap's firm, Phoenix Civil Contractors. Ryan first talked to Dunlap about hiring Phoenix in March 2009, and gave the company access to a line of credit a few months later. A lawsuit filed by Phoenix last year, along with the court documents charging Dunlap, alleged that Ryan by 2017 owed Phoenix roughly $5.5 million, and that he used First NBCs funds to stave off his own obligations. Each time Phoenix's loan from the bank became due, Ryan referenced his own debt to Phoenix in bank paperwork to justify the loan's creditworthiness, according to the documents. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up The documents charging Dunlap do not refer to Ryan by name; Justice Department guidelines bar accusing people of crimes by name in court documents when, like Ryan, they have yet to be charged. But the allegations related to Bank President A are clearly aimed at Ryan: They match details of his career, and the claims mirrors others lodged in Dunlap's civil suit. Moreover, the documents make clear that Ryan is a target, if not the main target, of the federal probe. Its been at least a year since the grand jury began looking into the banks collapse, the costliest failure of an American bank since 2010. One focus of the probe has been understanding the dealings between Ryan and Phoenix and in particular, Ryans efforts to develop a 161-acre tract of land in Mandeville through a firm called Wadsworth Estates. That firm is co-owned by Ryan and Warren Treme. Treme did not return phone messages from The Advocate. Ryans lawyer, Eddie Castaing, said his client denies committing fraud, and added that if Dunlap lied on loan paperwork, thats on him. Its apparent that Jeffrey Dunlap committed fraud against the bank, and so he ought to plead guilty, Castaing said in March. He also committed fraud against Ashton Ryan by providing false information to Mr. Ryan and the bank, upon which Mr. Ryan relied. Castaing said this week he stands by those remarks. Dunlap filed his civil suit against Ryan in November in the 22nd Judicial District. In February, Castaing requested a stay in the civil case because of the grand jury's investigation. His motion warned that if the civil case proceeded simultaneously, Ryan's "risk of self-incrimination is real and immediate." A judge agreed to put the bulk of the civil proceedings on hold, which is common when civil proceedings are overtaken by criminal investigations. Castaing's motion suggested that federal prosecutors were evaluating whether Ryan or other bank executives and directors were negligent, failed in their fiduciary duty to oversee the business, or benefited personally from a business relationship, like extending the line of credit. The boyfriend and girlfriend who were wanted in connection with a Canal Street shooting that wounded bystanders have been arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service in Tennessee, the New Orleans Police Department announced Tuesday. The U.S. Marshals arrested Byron Wilson and Derrion Robinson in connection with the shooting, which happened on Sept. 23 in the 600 block of Canal Street, police said. Wilson and Robinson were apprehended by U.S. Marshals in Franklin, Tenn., which is just south of Nashville. NOPD said the The U. S Marshals Service in New Orleans and the NOPD VOWS Unit developed information that traced the pair to Franklin, Tenn. That information was then sent to the U.S. Marshals Middle Tennessee Joint Fugitive Task Force. After the pair was located, a perimeter was set up at the location with assistance from officers from the Franklin Tennessee Police Department. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Wilson attempted to escape, but abandoned that effort after being challenged by officers at the scene, police said. Authorities said Wilson and Robinson are awaiting extradition in Tennessee. the pair will be sent back to New Orleans to face charges related to the Canal Street incident. According to police, Robinson and several other people were arguing and fighting before she ordered Wilson to shoot at her opponents. At least one witness then saw Wilson pull a pistol out and fire it toward someone who was running away from the scene, police said. One woman was shot in the right thigh. Another woman nearby had a graze wound from a bullet, police said after responding to the scene. NOPD said neither woman who was hurt had been participating in the fight. Video taken by a witness at the scene shows a black male subject firing a handgun, before the subject fled the scene. Wilson was later identified as the alleged shooter, police said. The global economy just dodged a bullet. US President Donald Trump, after threatening for the past two years to pull out of the North American Free Trade Agreement, on Monday (Australian time) quietly signed a peace deal. The survival of the world's second largest free trade group involving the US, Mexico and Canada is good news in itself and hopefully it is a sign that Trump will stop grandstanding on trade policy and start negotiating seriously. US President Donald Trump should stop posing and start explaining. Credit:Bloomberg US conservatives delude themselves that their man is secretly fighting for free and fair trade. Mr Trump has built his career on an emotional pitch to the US rust belt that blames foreigners for stealing American jobs and ignores the gains from trade based on comparative advantage. This has only encouraged Democrats to ask for even more protectionism. Mr Trump talked that game for his first 18 months in power but it has produced limited results and he seems to be bending. He threatened to slap tariffs on German cars. But a few months ago he dropped that idea. He dropped out of Trans Pacific Partnership with 11 other countries including Australia, Canada and Mexico but he recently reversed course there a bit, too. Last month, he agreed to start bilateral trade talks with Japan, the biggest country in the TPP. Australian actress and model Ruby Rose, known for her role in Netflix's Orange Is The New Black, has been named the most dangerous celebrity to search for online because of results that could expose fans to malicious websites carrying viruses. Cyber security company McAfee said reality television star Kristin Cavallari came in second place, while actresses Marion Cotillard, Lynda Carter and fellow Aussie Rose Byrne were also among the top five celebrities whose name searches can lead fans to click on suspicious links. Rose, 32, who was recently announced to play the role of Batwoman in an upcoming CW television series, is the 12th celebrity to earn the title, said McAfee spokesman Gary Davis. When Julia Zemiro introduces All Together Now by declaring, This is a new kind of singing show, its more than scripted banter. Channel Sevens new reality series is focused on the inclusive joy of singing, rather than the competition to be a star. The key judging criteria is whether a contestant can get the judges to stand up and sing along with them. There are no mentors or record deals. The prevailing mood is the opposite of so much television in 2018: its sweet. The tide has to start turning, says Zemiro, the long-time host of SBSs RocKwiz. I will never understand why people watch the Housewives shows and the Bachelor shows, where bad behaviour is rewarded again and again. We wouldnt reward that behaviour in children but we choose to watch it on TV. I know people say it is a guilty pleasure but I dont get it. The judges on All Together Now dance and sing when a contestant inspires them. Credit:Seven Based on a British show of the same name that concluded its successful first season in March, All Together Now is an antidote to where reality singing competitions find themselves after 15 years of Australian Idol, The Voice and The X Factor. Its uncomplicated and open to most. In the first episode one eccentric hopeful, Jared, belts out the Rogers and Hammerstein show tune Oklahoma. No-one mocks him or his enthusiasm for a steadfast musical. Busy new parents will take any extra time they can get. So when Ali and Ryan Hicks found out they could now register their new baby's birth online they jumped at the chance. Ryan Hicks, and Ali Hicks with their new born Sage Hicks. Credit:Dion Georgopoulos Baby Sage was among the first births to be registered online in the ACT, with the service launched on Wednesday. "It was very streamlined and very user friendly," Mrs Hicks said. The idea of visiting the moon was once the stuff of story books. Only a few years previously the mainstreaming of science fiction had begun with the arrival of Star Trek in 1966. But with Apollo 11, the impossibilities of that science fiction had suddenly become real. No longer was walking among the stars a far off future vision it was something very much in the present. Neil Armstrong remarked at the time that the need to explore the moon was part of humankind's need for self-discovery and that it was in the nature of the human being to face challenges. Mick Gentleman's father, Walter Gentleman in 1965, three years before the landing on the moon, in which he played a part in from Canberra. The lunar landings captured the imagination of the entire world. It was a formative moment in not only my life, but the lives of all in my generation. A couple of weeks before my 14th birthday, I shared a special moment with my father as he played a part in the broadcast of the moon landing. My long personal interest in space dates back to this exciting time. Indeed, my father played a role in it. In his work at the Postmaster General's Department, he was in charge of the communications cable from Honeysuckle Creek Tracking Station to Deakin, and then on to NASA. I was proud to have the opportunity to join him at the console for the moon landing. It was a fantastic moment. In appreciation of the work that he did, my father was presented with the Apollo Achievement Award by NASA. I have a framed copy of the certificate on my wall at home. That personal interest Ive always had in space has, just recently, also become a professional one. Im honoured to have been appointed as Minister assisting the Chief Minister on Advanced Technology and Space Industries in the ACT Government. Theres a lot of work going on in this field right now and Im excited to be taking this responsibility on at such an important time. The space game has changed a lot since those small steps and giant leaps of the 60s. Its now an industry, and its a big one. For those who arent familiar with it, it would be easy to disregard space and space industries as perhaps too ethereal to have any impact on us here in Canberra. But that would be a mistake. The Apollo Achievement Certificate that Walter Gentleman received from NASA for his role in the moon landing. Many technologies originally developed for use in space benefit our lives every day. From the satellite telecommunications we rely on for our GPS and mobile phone networks, through to advancements in biomedical research and more, advancements in technology connected to space research has improved all of our lives as well as our understanding of the universe. Research connected to space is taking place in Canberra right now across local research institutions and private companies. Drone deliveries are set to become a fixture in the ACT, as the company trialling the technology in south Canberra looks to set up a new permanent location for the service. Wings home wont be located at the testing site in Bonython, much to the relief of residents who say noise from the drones ruined the amenity of their quiet suburb. Wing chief executive Ryan Burgess says the drone delivery service is looking to find a permanent home in the ACT. Photo: Sitthixay Ditthavong Credit:Sitthixay Ditthavong Wing has trialled the use of drones to deliver food and medication to homes in the Tuggeranong suburb since July. The company leased land in Greenway, adjacent to Bonython, as a base for the drones, as well as products from businesses involved in the trial, including Guzman y Gomez and Chemist Warehouse. From accounts of his time in the Gallipoli trenches to descriptions of the bloody Battle of Pozieres, Charles Bean's private diaries provide some of the most comprehensive insights into the terror, tragedy and sense of sheer pointlessness of World War I. Now, for the first time, the first-hand accounts of Australia's first war correspondent have been pieced together in a new book, The Western Front Diaries of Charles Bean. From left: Australian War Memorial director Dr Brendan Nelson, AWM historian and editor of the book Peter Burness, Charles Bean's granddaughter Anne Carroll and Deputy Prime Minister of Australia Michael McCormack. Credit:Karleen Minney The Australian War Memorial's longest serving employee, Peter Burness AM, edited the 640-page book, which couples diary notes with 500 photographs, sketches and maps. The diaries, which for years were kept from public view, reveal Bean's innermost thoughts when, as a 35-year-old journalist, he arrived at Gallipoli just hours after the Anzac landing on April 25, 1915. Theres no shortage of big names whove put their money where their mouths are and into the Chris Cuffe-chaired Hearts and Minds Investment float. The Ainsworths and Carapiets, the Gonskis and the Gyngells, the Stokes and the Cannon-Brookes, the Lowys and the Lews and the Myers are all there for around $150 million all up. UBS head Matthew Grounds is likely to sit on the board of the Hearts and Minds Investment listed vehicle. Credit:Louie Douvis Hearts and Minds Investments, which will likely include UBS boss Matthew Grounds on its board, will raise up to $500 million and hit the bourse late next month. Almost half the money will be invested in companies picked by high-profile fund managers at the Hearts and Minds conference in November and held for a year. Theres been a rare Zam-Buk (C8) spotting in Sydney's north-west. Linda Meintjes of Glenhaven reports: The much lauded ointment is available at the shop 'Biltong and Boerewors' in Rouse Hill, either in-store or online. This is getting balmy. James Laukka of Epping says: "Judy Howarths (C8) recollection of hand-turning signals invokes childhood memories of the trucks we drove when living on our farm in Narromine in the 1950s and '60s. Because the human equivalent wasnt long enough, trucks had a steel arm attached to the drivers side door with a metal hand attached to the end. When executing a right hand turn (with window open), you simply pulled down the handle and the arm extended out. Furthermore, there was a special lever at the end the steel arm and when pulled, said metal hand would move from the horizontal to the vertical, indicating the drivers intention to stop. A very tactile and hands-on driving experience. Jonty Grinter of Katoomba has much simpler technique: "In Malta in the '60s, if a driver wanted to turn left they were required to stick their hand out of the window and point left across the top of the roof." Judy also triggered a few reminiscences regarding an Australian motoring icon. John Dawson of Wattle Grove recalls: "My stolen FJ Holden had bare contacts behind the ignition switch. After its recovery, I continued to use the tiny ball of aluminium foil (from a cigarette packet) used by the joyrider to start it. Why risk locking yourself out, when you can put your keys back in your pocket instead of leaving them in the ignition?" They have a point this side of the border, according to Harold Ball of Blackheath: All that donated hay from Victoria is being sent back, because a farmer in New South Wales found a needle in a haystack. A former director for Agri Beef Cattle Company and HQB Exporters has been sentenced to almost six years jail for claiming more than $820,000 in GST refund claims in 2014. New Zealand resident Anthony Lee, 65, was sentenced on Wednesday at the Brisbane District Court. The charges related to the fraudulent refund claims he made in Business Activity Statements lodged for two separate companies while he was living and working in Brisbane two years ago. Mr Lee was also ordered to repay the money he fraudulently claimed. DNA from a dingo that died 350 years ago and was unearthed in the early 1970s could help save the endangered species, a Queensland academic says. The University of the Sunshine Coast researcher will travel to the US next year to analyse the ancient dingo's DNA and get the full genomic breakdown of the pure dingo. The pure dingo is endangered, following generations of interbreeding with domestic dogs. USC senior research fellow Dr Subashchandran Sankarasubramanian will make the trip in April to use the Smithsonian Institute's facilities to analyse the bones. "One of the big issues facing the survival of the species is their interbreeding with domestic dogs. The situation is so bad that we could very well see the loss of genetically pure dingoes altogether," he said. Jarrod Thomas, who is accused of rape, has been denied bail. One of two men accused of raping a woman who needed a safe lift home has been refused bail because a magistrate couldn't be certain the public would be safe if the alleged offender was released. Jarrod Vincent Thomas and Harley Jarthur Palise were driving home from a night out when they found the woman in Lygon Street and offered her a ride home. They are accused of deviating into a Coburg street and raping her in the back of their car, and then dumping her outside her front door. Police say the men found the woman lying on the footpath outside a 7-Eleven store in a semi-conscious state in the early hours of June 17 after she went to a club the previous night, and she had to be helped to the men's car. A jury has heard a secret jail cell recording in a trial of three Melbourne men accused of plotting a terror attack in the CBD. The conversation between prosecution witness Ibrahim Abbas and the trio on trial - Abdullah Chaarani, Ahmed Mohamed and Hamza Abbas - was taken on Christmas Day 2016, just hours after their arrest on suspicion they had been planning a terrorist attack. Ibrahim Abbas arriving at the Supreme Court on Monday. Credit:Paul Jeffers In the recording, Ibrahim Abbas is heard telling his friends that he had just learned police had collected evidence against the group. This includes a recording of a conversation between Ibrahim Abbas and Mr Mohamed in a car where they allegedly discussed suicide vests, the day before their arrests. Lawyer Felicity Gerry said Hamza had been kept in the dark about much of his brother Ibrahim Abbas' plans to bomb and stab people at Federation Square because he had fish brain memory problems, adding by the time [a goldfish has] gone around the bowl it's forgotten what's going on. On Wednesday the brother's lawyer told a Supreme Court jury that her client, 23-year-old Hamza Abbas, was a vulnerable young man who suffered from lifelong learning difficulties. A terror plotter planned to use his lonely, unwitting, "fish brain" brother as a human bomb in an attack on Federation Square, a court has heard. Its the first time the jury has been given insight into the life of Hamza, who alongside Ahmed Mohamed, 25, and Abdullah Chaarani, 27, is on trial for allegedly conspiring with prosecution witness Ibrahim Abbas, 24, to target landmarks across Melbourne's CBD in late 2016. The jury heard Hamza is 14 months younger than Ibrahim and finds it hard to concentrate on anything other than computer games. Hed previously struggled to learn Arabic and despite pressure from his brother did not want a wife, instead choosing to live with his mother, the court heard. Ibrahim told the court his brother tagged along with him during the period in which the attack was allegedly planned because he couldnt leave him alone with his wife for cultural reasons. On Wednesday the jury deliberating over the case also heard secret jail cell recordings and phone taps prosecutors say prove the trio was in on a conspiracy to commit a terrorist attack. Australia will send more than 50 medical professionals to Indonesia to help with the aftermath of a devastating and deadly earthquake as part of a $5 million aid package. Friday's disaster in central Sulawesi has killed more than 1200 people, prompting Australia to send emergency healthcare support to the region. "We will be working very closely with the Indonesian government to make sure that the support we are providing is highly targeted," Foreign Minister Marise Payne told reporters in Washington overnight. Foreign Minister Marise Payne Credit:Alex Ellinghausen Australia is considering further support for the disaster, with the death toll expected to rise and millions affected by the crisis. What stood out most over its predecessor was how whisper quiet the keyboard is while typing. Other than quieter keys, theres no physical changes to the Surface Laptop 2. It will be available in Australia on October 16, starting at $1499. Surface Pro 6 The Surface Pro 6 receives an expected spec bump to Intels 8th generation of quad core processors that makes it 67 per cent faster over the previous model according to Microsoft. The company claims that the Surface Pro 6 is the first 2-in-1 to have a quad core processor; a feat that it managed to achieve without compromising on thinness, weight or its 13.5 hour rated battery life. Other than a new 8MP rear camera with auto-focus, the specs are almost identical to the Surface Laptop 2 right down to the new black colour option. Sadly, as with the Surface Laptop 2, Microsoft has declined to implement a USB Type-C port on the Surface Pro 6. Instead Microsoft is sticking with mini DisplayPort and the proprietary Surface Connector combo for connecting to displays and charging the device. Microsoft introduced USB-C on last years Surface Book 2 and the recently released Surface Go, so the decision to exclude it from its flagship Surface Pro and Surface Laptop is an odd omission. When queried over the ports absence a Microsoft spokesperson told Fairfax that the company understands the customer demand for USB-C and that it will consider it for future products. The Pro 6 will also be available in Australia on October 16, starting at $1349. There was no mention of a 4G version of the machine, though we assume it will be arriving at a later date as was the case with the Surface Pro 5 last year. The cellular version of the Surface Go, Microsofts iPad competitor, is also expected to arrive later this year. Surface Studio 2 Microsofts Surface Studio redefined what a desktop PC could be and two years on theres still nothing else quite like it on the market. The unique folding hinge design that enables the Surface Studio to transform from a standard all-in-one PC into a flat digital drawing surface so effortlessly made it an attractive proposition to creatives and a statement piece for those with cash to burn. While the beautiful design and magnificent 28-inch (71cm) 4.5K resolution screen was befitting of the high-end price tag, the internals powering the original Surface Studio were less than impressive for the money. Thankfully, thats where Microsoft has concentrated its efforts with the sequel. The Surface Studio 2 makes the switch to an SSD drive which gives it 50 per cent faster file handling than its predecessor while graphics receive a much needed boost with the option of either Nvidias GTX 1060 for the base model or GTX 1070 for the higher end model. Unfortunately, Microsoft hasnt put the latest and greatest CPU inside the Surface Studio 2, but Intels 7th-gen Kaby Lake processors should still provide a noticeable uptick in performance over its predecessor. The ageing mini DisplayPort has been axed in favour of a USB-C port, but theres no Thunderbolt 3 which would have made it compatible with external graphics cards and prolonged the life of the Surface Studio 2 for customers in the process. A spokesperson for Microsoft told Fairfax that it hasnt seen accessory makers adopt Thunderbolt broadly enough to justify the tradeoffs required to support it, while adding that it hasnt ruled out the inclusion of Thunderbolt in future products. The Studio 2 wil lbe available in Australia on November 15, starting at $5499. Surface Headphones Microsoft is officially entering the wireless headphone game with a pair of premium noise cancellation cans called the Surface Headphones. The company claims a stellar listening experience backed up by modern smart features such as the ability to automatically pause and resume when taking the headphones on and off. There's also integration with the Cortana digital assistant who, among other things, will read you emails or kick off a conference call on your behalf. The headphones have volume and noise cancelling controls built into the cups, come in the standard Surface grey and charge fully in two hours thanks to the included USB-C port. Plans to bring the device to Australia have not yet been announced. They'll go for $US349 ($487) in the US when they launch later this year. Australia, one of the biggest dozen economies despite having merely a third of 1 per cent of the global population, prides itself as a regional power and a global political and moral exemplar, but its response to genocide in Myanmar lacks leadership. Australias support of the Myanmar military reportedly included $400,000 for training in the last financial year. That must stop immediately, and now we have an opportunity to take the lead in a strong regional response, bringing security and safety to a region plagued by horror. A Rohingya woman with her orphaned granddaughter at a refugee camp in Bangladesh. Credit:Kate Geraghty The Age this week revealed that an Australian seconded to the US State Departments Myanmar inquiry has broken protocol to urge the Morrison government to establish a peacekeeping mission and war crimes tribunal. We urge the government to heed his call. Michael Stefanovic, a hardened former Victoria Police homicide detective who has also investigated war crimes in the Balkans, Darfur and the Congo, says he has never encountered worse horror, which includes a Rohingya man being forced to select a female refugee who was then publicly gang raped. A former Blumenort massage therapist will spend nearly two years in jail after being sentenced on Monday for four counts of sexual assault and for breaching a no-contact order with one of his victims. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 2/10/2018 (1138 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A former Blumenort massage therapist will spend nearly two years in jail after being sentenced on Monday for four counts of sexual assault and for breaching a no-contact order with one of his victims. Kenneth Wall, who operated Kens Massage out of his Blumenort-area home, was found guilty in August of sexually assaulting four female clients, including a minor, between May and September 2014. Wall, now 44, will spend two years less a day in prison, followed by three years of probation. Three of women testified how Wall massaged their breasts, while a fourth woman shared during the trial how he performed a vaginal massage, all done without the consent of any of the victims. "Living in a small community, where I grew up and where most people know each other has made this very hard," recalled one of Walls victims in a victim impact statement that was read in court. "I tried to hold my head up, being confident, not shameful because I didnt do anything wrong," she said. In a statement filed by her husband, he spoke about how they went to police to share what had happened and questioned those in the community who were upset with the allegations and who saw Wall as a "family man." "I ask how many more women have to be violated or exposed before it is enough and have to be stopped. If another 10 came forward would that be enough? If not that, how about 20 more? Would that person have to be your neighbour, your wife, your sister, or daughter, or your mother? Would that be enough?"" he asked. "This is why we came forward. To stop others from being hurt by this man." Another of Walls victims said she would never be the same and shared how she no longer attends church, remembering how Wall prayed over her after sexually assaulting her. "I found it very hard to trust Christians, as I experienced firsthand how offenders can use their spirituality to assault people and mislead others about their true character." She too spoke of not being believed. "I was forced to experience the comments and gossip of the community, supporting the offender and the accusations of the public, even a friend, that none of it was true." Walls teenage victim shared of crying herself to sleep and feeling emotionally drained. "He took advantage of her vulnerability and her innocence," said the girls mother in a statement of her own. "How could he have done this to her? She was just a child." Stay informed The latest updates on the novel coronavirus and COVID-19 delivered to your inbox every weeknight. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Judge Anne Krahn accepted the joint recommendation for Walls sentence and offered encouragement to the victims of his crimes. "It is testament to her courage, her strength of character, that she came forward and all of this came to light," Krahn said of the first victim who went to police in 2014. Walls no-contact breach came shortly after, when he attempted to arrange a meeting with the victim through a family member. "That is something unfortunately that we see way too oftenis women come forward about sexual abuse they have suffered and then pressure comes on them to take it back," Krahn observed. "They shouldnt take it back." The judge expressed disappointment in Walls lack of insight into his actions. "I had hoped maybe today, when you were given an opportunity to speak, maybe you would have apologized to them and so I think you still dont know how very real the impact, how very real the harm, is that youve done to them," she said. President Trump mocking an assault survivor. Photo: MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images After describing Dr. Christine Blasey Ford as a very credible witness following her testimony last week about her alleged assault by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, President Trump openly mocked her at a rally in Mississippi on Tuesday, and went on to say that he had plenty of experience with false accusations. Almost immediately, Fords lawyer, Michael Bromwich, responded on Twitter, calling the presidents comments a vicious, vile and soulless attack, and saying that Ford is a profile in courage, while Trump is a profile in cowardice. A vicious, vile and soulless attack on Dr. Christine Blasey Ford. Is it any wonder that she was terrified to come forward, and that other sexual assault survivors are as well? She is a remarkable profile in courage. He is a profile in cowardice. https://t.co/UJ0bGxV1EZ Michael R. Bromwich (@mrbromwich) October 3, 2018 Imitating Ford, Trump said at the rally: I had one beer. Well you think? Nope, it was one beer. How did you get home? I dont remember. How did you get there? I dont remember. Where is the place? I dont remember. How many years ago was it? I dont know, I dont know, I dont know. The crowd went wild. The president also bemoaned the state of the country, and expressed his concern for young men who he worries might be accused of sexual misconduct. (As we noted when his son made a similar comment earlier this week: Research finds that false reporting only accounts for between 2 and 10 percent of sexual-assault allegations.) Over 20 women have accused Trump himself of sexual misconduct, but he dismissed those allegations as false as well, saying, Ive had many false accusations, and when I say it didnt happen, no one believes me, but its my job description. They can say anything they want, but we cant sue them, because if youre famous you cant sue, figure that out. Trump has, of course, threatened to sue several of his accusers. Well, whether you're keen for it or now, Coca-Cola's about to add the brand new flavour to their Zero Sugar range. Coca-Cola Great Britain's Marketing Manager, Alec Mellor said: "Since launching Coca-Cola zero sugar, weve introduced an exciting addition of new flavours to the range. For a limited time only, we are excited to announce the launch of Coca-Cola zero sugar Cinnamon, that we hope our current fans and those looking to try a new flavour will love. Its a drink full of festive flavour and no sugar, perfect for the lead up to Christmas." The limited edition flavour goes on sale at the end of this week and stick around for the rest of 2018 but we're not sure yet if we'll be seeing it on sale in NZ too. Would you be keen on trying it? Five people were shot in a drive-by shooting in Philadelphia near a Dollar Store, according to reports on Oct. 3. (Google Street View) 5 Shot in Front of Philadelphia Dollar General Store: Reports Five people were shot in a drive-by shooting in Philadelphia near a Dollar Store, according to reports on Oct. 3. The incident occurred in the Germantown neighborhood at around 2:30 p.m., Fox29 reported. The victims are between the ages of 19 and 23, the report said. One person was shot in the head and is in critical condition. Investigators said that a white Chevy Impala is being sought by police in connection with the shooting. NBC Philadelphia reported that the shooting occurred outside a Dollar General store. At least two gunmen inside fired 18 shots. I can assure you its about something stupid. Just like most things are, Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross said about the shooting. But right now weve got a lot of unanswered questions. Officials urge anyone with information should call the Philadelphia Police Department. The occupants of a White Chevy Impala came through the parking lot, firing multiple rounds hitting all five males, said Ross, 6ABC reported. They then turned northbound on Germantown Avenue. Ross said the shooting doesnt appear to be random, saying that investigators believe the victims who were shot were the intended targets of the gunmen, 6ABC reported. Aid Trickling In as Indonesia Death Toll Passes 1,400 PALUFor some who survived the massive earthquake and tsunami on Indonesias Sulawesi island last week, the memories and the horror from a disaster that has left more than 1,400 people dead are both hard to erase and understand. Nature simply unleashed its fury on them. Furniture maker Khairul Hassan recalled working at a shop near the beach in front of a row of warehouses when the earth began shaking violently last week. He ran to a nearby hill and watched as the ocean heaved up and hurled forward. Now he cant forget. I saw the waves come and sweep out everythingbuildings, factories, warehouses and some people who were lost, racing from the waves, some of them women and children, he said on Oct. 3. Also, warehouse workers who were trapped under goods, all swept by the sea. Its so tragic. Its so scary to remember. The official death toll increased to 1,407, with thousands injured and more than 70,000 displaced from their homes, said national disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho. He said the number of dead would increase, but that rescue crews had reached all affected areas. Aid was slowly making its way into areas devastated by the twin disasters, with one neighborhoods residents clapping, cheering and high-fiving in their excitement Wednesday at seeing a stopped truck laden with supplies. Im so happy, said Heruwanto, 63, who goes by one name. He was clutching a box of instant noodles. I really havent eaten for three days. Food, water, fuel, and medicine was still slow to reach the hardest-hit areas outside Palu, the largest city heavily damaged in Fridays disaster. Many roads were broken and split by the violent shaking or blocked by debris. Communications remained limited. The U.N. humanitarian office said needs are vast, with people urgently requiring shelter, clean water, food, fuel and emergency medical care. Meanwhile, a volcano erupted Wednesday morning in another part of Sulawesi island, about 940 kilometers (585 miles) northeast of the earthquake zone, spitting a plume of ash more than 6,000 meters (20,680 feet) into the sky. Planes were warned of the cloud billowing from Mount Soputan because the material can be hazardous for aircraft engines, but no evacuations were ordered in the area. Experts said its possible the quake accelerated the eruption, but there is no concrete evidence to prove that. Activity at the volcano had been increasing since August and began surging on Monday, Kasbani, who heads Indonesias Vulcanology and Geology Disaster Mitigation agency and uses one name, told an online news portal. At the quake zone, water is the main issue because most of the supply infrastructure has been damaged, U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters at U.N. headquarters in New York. He said the government was coordinating emergency efforts, and that U.N. and relief agencies were on the ground or en route. We feel like we are stepchildren here because all the help is going to Palu, said Mohamad Taufik, 38, from the town of Donggala, where five of his relatives are still missing. There are many young children here who are hungry and sick, but there is no milk or medicine. More than 25 countries offered assistance after Indonesian President Joko Jokowi Widodo appealed for international help. Little of that, however, has reached the disaster zone, and increasingly desperate residents grabbed food and fuel from damaged stores and begged for help. Widodo visited the disaster zone Wednesday, saying theres still work to be done, but that conditions were improving with businesses starting to reopen, helping people to start returning their lives to normal. He said President Donald Trump called him Tuesday night, offering assistance. We are going in phases. There are lots of things happening related to evacuation, as aid and fuel are also coming in, he said, noting that 30 people remain buried under rubble at the Roa Roa Hotel in Palu. Every province has different cases, including security. Some homeless residents werent waiting for help. Dozens sifted through what remained of a flattened complex of warehouses along Palus ravaged coastline, looking for anything they could salvage to either sell or help them rebuild. They carted away corrugated metal, wood, piping and other items. We have to do this because theres no assistance from the government, said Zaitun Rajamangili, 41, adding that his home was swept away but his family survived. An aircraft carrying 12,000 liters (3,170 gallons) of fuel had arrived, and trucks with food were on the way with police escorts to guard against looters. Many gas stations were inoperable either because of quake damage or from people stealing fuel, national disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said in Jakarta. Indonesian military chief Hadi Tjahyanto said one armed soldier and one armed police officer would be placed on every aid truck and soldiers would be sent to secure markets, the airport and fuel depots to maintain order. He added that a Singaporean military transport plane will help evacuate victims from the airport in Palu. In addition, aircraft from South Korea, the United Kingdom and Japan were expected to ferry aid. Teams continued searching for survivors under destroyed homes and buildings. Australia announced it will send 50 medical professionals as part of a $3.6 million aid package. The United States and China are among other countries that have offered assistance. The U.N.s Haq said the Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has asked the U.N. childrens agency, UNICEF, to send social workers to the affected area to support children who are alone or became separated from their families. And he said the World Health Organization is warning that a lack of shelter and damaged water sanitation facilities could lead to outbreaks of communicable diseases. Indonesia, a vast archipelago of 260 million people, is frequently struck by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis because of its location on the Ring of Fire, an arc of volcanoes and fault lines in the Pacific Basin. A powerful quake on the island of Lombok killed 505 people in August. By Stephen Wright A woman walks past the wreckage of cars which was flattened by Friday's earthquake in Balaroa neighborhood in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia Indonesia, on Oct. 2, 2018. (Dita Alangkara/AP) Australia Sends 50 Medical Professionals and $3.6M in Aid PALU, IndonesiaAustralias government says it will send more than 50 medical professionals to Indonesia to help with the aftermath of a devastating earthquake and tsunami as part of a 5 million Australian dollar ($3.6 million) aid package. Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne told reporters in Washington: We will be working very closely with the Indonesian government to make sure that the support we are providing is highly targeted. She says: Australia is considering further support for the disaster, with the death toll expected to rise and millions affected by the crisis. Payne says she has been in contact with her Indonesian counterpart Retno Marsudi and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison is continuing talks with President Joko Jokowi Widodo about possible further support. The U.N. says its humanitarian office is reporting that needs are vast following the earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia, with people urgently requiring shelter, clean water, food, fuel and emergency medical care. U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said Oct. 2 that U.N. and relief agencies are on the ground or en route. He said the agencies are working closely with the government to provide technical support. Haq told reporters at U.N. headquarters in New York that water is the main issue because most of the water supply infrastructure has been damaged. He says the Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has asked the U.N. childrens agency, UNICEF, to send social workers to the affected area to support children who are alone or became separated from their families. Haq says the World Health Organization is warning that a lack of shelter and damaged water sanitation facilities could lead to outbreaks of communicable diseases. Evakuasi korban tertimbun gempa di Hotel Roa-Roa Kota Pqluterus dilakukan Tim SAR Gabungan dikoordinir Basarnas. Diperkiran terdapat 50 orang di bawah reruntuhan bangunan. Alat berat diperlukan untuk evakuasi. pic.twitter.com/LGWwp3OEhE Sutopo Purwo Nugroho (@Sutopo_PN) September 30, 2018 Indonesias disaster agency says the death toll from an earthquake and tsunami disaster on a central island is now 1,234. Agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho updated the figure at a news conference in Jakarta on Oct. 2 afternoon. The magnitude 7.5 earthquake and the tsunami it generated struck Palu and nearby areas on central Sulawesi island. Nugroho said 799 people are severely injured. He said the communities of Sigi and Balaroa have not been counted yet, meaning the toll is likely to rise. One of the first evacuation flights from a quake-devastated region of central Indonesia has landed in East Java. The C130 military transport aircraft that arrived at a military airport Oct. 2 carried dozens of people, including injured victims needing further care and treatment. It left from the city of Palu, where hundreds of people are waiting still to be evacuated. Andi Wijaya, the airport base commander in East Java, says seven aircraft were ready to evacuate but crews had to be summoned to prepare for the flights. The situation is increasingly desperate in the severely damaged areas of central Sulawesi island where people are running short of food, fuel and other essentials. Sept. 28 magnitude 7.5 earthquake and the tsunami it generated caused at least 840 deaths but some areas outside Palu have yet to be reached. Australias government has given financial aid to help victims of Indonesias earthquake and tsunami and was talking with Indonesian authorities about sending more. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said 500,000 Australian dollars ($360,000) in initial funding was given to the Indonesian Red Cross for the most obvious emergency aid needs, such as tarpaulins. Australias ambassador was consulting the Indonesian government on more support. Morrison told reporters in the west coast city of Perth that Australia was looking at how to best fit the needs of its neighbors in their time of need and that Australias support wouldnt only be in the short-term. Indonesias president has authorized the acceptance of international help, with generators, heavy equipment and tents among the most-needed items. Officials have said the European Union, United States and China have also offered help. Residents in the disaster-devastated Indonesian city of Donggala say people there are hungry and the central government must urgently get aid there. The city was among those hit in last weeks earthquake and tsunami, but aid has been slow to arrive due to the difficulty in reaching it. Survivors in Donggala say they worry they have been forgotten as attention has been focused on the city of Palu, which has been easier to reach. With supplies running out, local administrator Kasman Lassa says people were taking food and other essentials from shops Oct. 2. Lassa says: Everyone is hungry and they want to eat after several days of not eating. He says people going into shops should take only cake, bread, rice. Do not take chairs, or television. Again, for cake, bread, rice, they can take it. The store owner also allows them to take food. The confirmed death toll of 844 is expected to rise as authorities reach areas that were cut off by the disaster Beginilah kondisi terkini di #palu Sulawesi Tengah pasca Tsunami yang melanda. Akses jalan di penuhi oleh lumpur. Saat ini (29/9) Tim PMI telah berada dilokasi. #PMISiapBantu pic.twitter.com/db9Cl7VQWi Indonesian Red Cross (@palangmerah) September 29, 2018 Two shallow earthquakes have occurred near the eastern Indonesian island of Sumba, but no tsunami warning was issued. The temblors Oct. 2 occurred nearly 1,600 kilometers (990 miles) south of the area heavily damaged by a powerful earthquake and tsunami Sept. 28 on central Sulawesi island. The U.S. Geological Survey said the first quake was magnitude 5.9 and the second one about 15 minutes later was magnitude 6.0. State news agency Antara reported that one bridge was damaged in Wula Waijelu, but there were no other immediate reports of damage. About 750,000 people live on the island, located in eastern Indonesia in East Nusa Tenggara province near East Timor. Indonesia is a vast archipelago stretching a similar distance to that between New York and London. It is located on the seismically active Ring of Fire and is frequently struck by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. Desperation is visible everywhere in areas heavily damaged by an earthquake and tsunami, four days after the disaster devastated parts of Indonesias central Sulawesi island. Signs propped along roads read We Need Food and We Need Support, while traffic was snarled by people waiting for fuel. The confirmed death toll of 844 is expected to rise as authorities reach areas that were cut off by the disaster. The magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck at dusk Sept. 28 and generated a tsunami said to have been as high as 6 meters (20 feet) in places. Search-and-rescue teams combed destroyed homes and buildings for any trapped survivors, but they needed more heavy equipment to clear the rubble. Nearly 50,000 people have been displaced from their homes in Palu alone, and hospitals were overwhelmed. Autopsy Reports Complete After Colorado Father Allegedly Killed Wife, Two Daughters The autopsy reports for a mother and two daughters allegedly killed by their husband and father have been completed, according to officials in Colorado. The case of Shanann Watts and her daughters, Bella, 4, and Celeste, 3, became national news after it was revealed that Chris Watts, Shananns husband and father to the two girls, reportedly confessed to murdering his wife. Watts, 33, claimed that he killed Shanann, 34, after seeing her strangle their children on a baby monitor. He said she was upset after he informed her he wanted to separate from her. But prosecutors have charged him with murdering all three as well as unlawful termination of a pregnancy, since Shanann was 15 weeks pregnant when she was murdered on Aug. 13. Autopsy Reports The autopsy reports for Shanann, Bella, and Celeste have been completed, according to an Oct. 1 notice by the Weld District Attorneys Office. The notice was filed in accordance with a judges order made last week that the office should alert the court when the autopsies were completed. The reports remain sealed pending a hearing, which has not yet been scheduled, but copies of the report were given to Watts attorneys and prosecutors. Weld County District Attorney Michael Rourke previously asked the judge to keep the reports sealed until the trial was underway, a request granted in mid-September, reported ABC 7. Rourke said in his request that disclosing the coroners observations in the autopsies could result in tainting witnesses in the high-profile case and could also impact the future juror pool. Watts is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 19 for a status conference, according to CBS. Bodies Found The bodies of the three females were found on the property of Anadarko Petroleum, which employed both Shanann and Chris at one time. The girls were found submerged in oil, inside containers, while Shanann was found nearby. The placement of the bodies was made to conceal the smell of the bodies, sources told ABC 7. Watts was charged with five counts of first-degree murder, two of which were due to the young age of his daughters when they were killed, along with the one count of unlawful termination of pregnancy and three counts of tampering with a deceased human body. From NTD.tv Sharpshooters are being sent into forests in southern Belgium to cull the boar population due to the outbreak of the African swine fever. (Wildpix productions/Shutterstock) Belgium Calls in Army Snipers to Take Out Virus-Carrying Boars BRUSSELSBelgium will deploy army snipers to slaughter wild boars in a bid to stop the spread of the deadly African swine fever virus across Europe, the countrys government has announced. Sharpshooters will be sent into the forests of the southern province of Luxembourg, where at least 15 cases of the disease have been discovered, to cull the boar population. The action was demanded by Belgian pig farmers, who now face mounting import bans on their products, and mirrors a similar response taken by the Czech Republic. A quarantine zone in Etalle, Luxembourg province, Belgium, on Sept. 22, 2018, where nine boars were found dead because of the highly contagious African swine fever. (Jean-Luc Flemal/AFP/Getty Images) Authorities in Prague turned to police snipers to control the outbreak there, which involved officers fencing off a large area and hunting 158 wild boars in a two-month period between October and December last year. Belgian officials are increasingly concerned that the fever will be transferred by wild boars to farm pigs, which could decimate the countrys agricultural industry. They have quarantined a massive 63,000 hectares (156,000 acres) of land near the southern border to prevent it from spreading further and have already announced a cull of 4,000 pigs at farms in the area. So far, Taiwan, South Korea, Serbia, Singapore, China, Belarus, Australia, Japan, Philippines, Mexico, Uruguay, Malaysia, and India have all slapped import restrictions on Belgian pork. Hendrik Vandamme, chairman of Belgian farmers union the General Agricultural Syndicate, said farmers had been struggling to sell pork products and that the outbreak led to a fall in market prices that was much deeper than anyone suspected. The impact on the pig sector is being felt in all corners of the country despite the highly isolated and remote contamination. We now hear various signals from retailers that sales will be difficult, translating into lower purchase prices, Vandamme said. Belgian authorities will compensate farmers for some of their losses and are set to ask the European Union to step in with further financial assistance. The outbreak in Belgium has caused alarm amongst politicians in the Netherlands, which is only 93 miles to the north of the new exclusion zone. Authorities in The Hague have announced they are introducing extra checks on pigs arriving from Belgium and have launched a new program to monitor the health of their own wild boar population. This is a serious situation for Belgium. To keep the risk for the Netherlands as small as possible, we will monitor the situation continuously and we will look if all the precautionary measures taken are sufficient, said Dutch Agriculture Minister Carola Schouten. Transporters who transport, for example, pigs from countries where African swine fever is being found on farms, will have to be cleaned extra at the border. In addition, we are monitoring the wild boar population intensively in the Netherlands. According to the European Food Safety Authority, the disease originally entered Europe from Russia and Belarus in early 2014 via Eastern states including Lithuania, Poland, Latvia, and Estonia. More than 361,000 wild boar and farm pigs have been reported to the OIE as being infected with the disease so far this year, with 119,000 deaths. The virus is not harmful to humans. California Allows State Lawmakers to Effectively Live Outside Their Districts A bill allowing lawmakers to effectively live outside of their districts was signed into law by California Governor Jerry Brown on Sep. 29. Senate Bill 1250 protects Californias 120 state lawmakers from prosecution regarding their primary residences. According to California law, state legislators can only represent an area where his or her primary residence is located. The law also states that the address appearing on elected officials filed affidavit of voter registration is presumed to be his or her domicile, which must be a place in which his or her habitation is fixed, wherein the person has the intention of remaining, and to which, whenever he or she is absent, the person has the intention of returning, according to the bill. Since lawmakers jobs often required them to leave their district and travel to the capitol, and they often owned multiple properties, they always faced the risk of having to prove their primary residence was indeed in their district. However, state legislators are now allowed to enroll their children in out-of-district schools, receive mail at a residence outside of their district, claim homeowners exemption for a residence outside of their district, or have a spouse that lives and works in an out-of-district home, among other exclusions. In 2014, State Senator Roderick Wright (D-Inglewood) was convicted of voter fraud and perjury after prosecutors demonstrated that his primary residence wasnt the one where he registered to vote. As a result, Wright was sentenced to 90 days in jail and later resigned from the Senate. But thanks to the crowded condition of the jails, he was released after staying for less than two hours. Four years later, Sen. Steven Bradford, from the same district Wright represented, authored S.B. 1250, which allows a total of nine circumstances where legislators may have another residence that might appear to be their primary residence. Thanks @JerryBrownGov for signing SB1250, my residency-domicile bill that simply restates current law that has been in place for over 30yrs! Steven Bradford (@SteveBradford) September 30, 2018 SB 1250 does not expand residency requirements for incoming candidates, nor does this bill encourage candidates to run if they do not represent the best interests of their constituents, said Sen. Steven Bradford in a statement. This bill is about allowing all legislators, who must travel and live in our state capital, to be effective leaders for our respective districts without the fear of being targeted by overzealous prosecutors or political adversaries. Previous opponents of SB 1250 included the California Common Cause and American Civil Liberties Union of California. However, they changed their status to neutral for the final version of the bill, since it didnt change current residency law. Correction: A previous version of this article stated that California Common Cause and American Civil Liberties Union of California opposed the final version of the bill. The Epoch Times regrets the error. Clarissa Horsfall holds a sign reading, 'Equal Pay,' as she joins with others during 'A Day Without A Woman' demonstration on March 8, 2017 in Miami, FL. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Can Social Justice Be Salvaged? If social justice is such a vague, ideological concept, providing cover for a progressive agenda that calls for more state control of the economy and social life, why not junk it altogether as many recommend? Already, conservatives and libertarians tend to use it dismissively, with scare quotes around it. But, accepting all the criticisms of considering social justice to be an ideal state of affairs, do we still need the concept in its original sense, as a personal virtue? When the conservative Italian Jesuit scholar Fr. Luigi Taparelli coined the term, he meant it to refer to a personal virtue. It was not about equality or the redistribution of wealth by the state. Social justice was part of the cardinal virtue of justice, by which, as a matter of habit and will, we give others what is due them. In Michael Novaks last book (which I co-authored), Social Justice Isnt What You Think It Is, Novak explored the theory and history of social justice, rightly understood, and we fleshed out its practical application to issues of conscience, marriage, poverty, charity, and helping professions such as social work. The Common Good Social justice can be defined as the virtue that inclines individuals to work with others for the common good. It is justice in directing the virtues to giving others their due, and it is social in a double sense. First, it aims at the common good rather than what is due to another individual, like the money I owe my plumber for services rendered. Second, it involves joining with others to achieve a common purpose that individuals cannot achieve on their own. It is the virtue that French diplomat and political thinker Alexis de Tocqueville admired so much in the America he found in the first half of the 19th century. It is the virtue of association, the virtue par excellence of civil society. Tocqueville contrasted the way Americans, needing a bridge or church in their town, would join together to build one, whereas the French would look to the state to perform the task. In this understanding, social justice is not a matter of making claims on the state, for money, goods, and services, though none of that is excluded. Nor is social justice a matter of making demands on the state to act against civil society or families, enforcing individual claims on parents or ones employer or school. It is the virtue required by citizens in a republican democracy as opposed to the more passive duty of subjects of a lord or sovereign. As Novak said of his serf forebears on a feudal estate in what is now Slovakia: My ancestors were taught to accept their lot. Their moral duties were fairly simple: pray, pay, and obey. Once in America, all that changed. Now they were citizens, not subjects. They were responsible, in new ways, for their own future. They needed to be active and creative in working together to meet common needs and to deal with problems and crises. Novak gives a wonderful account of a whole community coming together, that of his hometown, Johnstown, Pennsylvania, where the dam burst several times and flooded the town, claiming many lives. He describes how the community organized in response, depending on and building the virtue of social justice. The widespread habits of self-organization, insight into what to do next and in what order, and agreeable cooperation in dire needsuch social capital, such a fund of social virtueshelped Johnstown to come back from three major floods: in 1889, 1936, and 1977, Novak wrote. State Intervention Like other virtues, social justice grows through practice and weakens through disuse or when the state, which has expanded enormously since the 1880s, takes over. The danger then is of ignoring or stifling the creativity and energy of people closest to the situation. Sometimes the states proper role is to get out of the way. In child protection cases, where the professionals may be most inclined to ultimatismdo this if you want your child backa family group conference mobilizes extended families to work out a plan to keep the children safe. It draws on indigenous, ancient traditions of problem-solving and restorative justice, but is part of the legal structure of the modern bureaucratic-professional state. The outcome of the decision-making process is not predetermined and the eventual plan, worked out by the family and proposed at the end of the meeting to the professional(s) responsible for child protection, could be to move the children to a relative, have the abusing parent leave the home or go into residential treatment for drug or alcohol abuse, or in the most intractable cases to move to terminating the rights of the parent. The state does not abandon its legal duty to protect children, if necessary, from their parents, but widens the circle of responsibility to include extended family members who care about the children and may have resources or ideas for keeping them safe. Even in such cases, where the coercive power of the state is never far from anyones mind, it is possible to find scope for bringing people together for the common good, to build on and strengthen the capacity of families and communities to practice the virtue of social justice. The first resort of many activists in addressing such problems is to call on the state for a new law or stricter enforcement. The state is often necessary, but it can all too easily substitute for the love and caring capacity, the wisdom and creativity, of those closest to the problem. The question instead should be, did this intervention leave the family and community stronger and better able to meet its own obligations to its vulnerable members? That is, did it strengthen the virtue of social justice in those who participated, or did it weaken it? Paul Adams is a professor emeritus of social work at the University of Hawaii and was a professor and associate dean of academic affairs at Case Western Reserve University. He is the co-author of Social Justice Isnt What You Think It Is and has written extensively on social welfare policy and professional and virtue ethics. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland hold a press conference regarding the United States Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA) in Ottawa on Oct. 1, 2018. (The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick) Canada Has Much to Gain in New USMCA Deal Trump administration stamps its authority over China in North American trade Canadas new trade agreement with the United States and Mexicothe USMCA, which replaces NAFTAis not just a good deal because of the removal of uncertainty for Canadian business. It also strengthens trade ties with the United States, potentially at Chinas expense. Buried deep in the agreement is Article 32.10, which puts forth a set of requirements that any USMCA partner has to satisfy should it seek a bilateral free-trade agreement with a non-market economy, i.e. China. I think its fairly obvious why the U.S. sought those provisions, said Mark Agnew, director of international policy at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, in an interview. The inclusion of it signals the U.S. world view about trade with China. For the United States, the real target is China. The worlds two largest economies are involved in rising trade tensions. The United States intends to assert its trade authority in North America while taking China to task for its theft of intellectual property and other international trade violations. At the same time, China also seeks to build its influence around the world. Theyre signalling that they want their trade partners to think very seriously about how their trade negotiation with China might affect their trade relationship with the United States, Brian Lee Crowley, managing director of public policy think tank Macdonald-Laurier Institute (MLI), said in an interview. I happen to think that anything that makes Canada think more carefully and more deeply about its relationship with China is all to the good. Article 32.10 essentially says that notification needs to be provided before negotiation with a non-market country, like China, and ultimately gives a partner the ability to withdraw from the USMCA after reviewing the text of a trade deal reached. Its a bit more symbolic rather than having a lot of bite to it, Agnew said about the text in question. Both Agnew and Crowley point out that no new ability to withdraw from the USMCA has been created as a result of this article. If the U.S. woke up tomorrow and said were going to withdraw from the agreement because its Wednesday, sure they can do that too, Agnew said. Crowley said the article is hardly astonishing, nor is it some kind of limitation on Canadas sovereignty. To his knowledge, it wasnt a big issue for Canada during the negotiations, although other commentators are now making a bit of a tempest in a teapot about it. I think people who are making a case that Canada sold out are completely missing the point, he said. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reiterated on Oct. 2 that he intends to forge greater economic ties with China, although no plans for formal talks have been made. China has also renewed overtures toward Canada in the wake of the trade spat with the United States. I certainly think that it happens to be in Canadas interest if it makes us look again at the desirability of a closer relationship with China given the primordial nature of our trade relationship with the United States, Crowley said. Uncertainty No More Trade uncertainty had been the number one threat for the Canadian economy. With the avoidance of tariffs on autos, the worst has certainly been avoided. The biggest areas in which the economy should benefit are in business investment and exports, two components that the Bank of Canada had been haircutting while trade uncertainty persisted. Now, businesses have 16 years of certainty ahead instead of the original five-year sunset proposal from the United States. But business investment may be slow to move notably higher, according to Agnew. Even with the past uncertainty surrounding trade, Canadian firms had already been upbeat about their prospects, according to the Bank of Canadas business outlook survey from the summer. Agnew said the removal of uncertainty is one factor that will spur business investment, but the Chamber of Commerce has been decrying Canadas lack of a competitive business environment with regard to regulation and tax policy. I dont think by any means we should get complacent thinking we have NAFTA [USMCA] delivered so suddenly now business investment wont be a problem and we dont have to worry about it anymore, Agnew said. Aside from the interests of certain sectors, most notably dairy farmers, the USMCA is beneficial for Canadas economy, investment, and jobs, in the view of Agnew and Crowley. Anything that reduces the power of the supply-managed agriculture cartels in dairy, poultry, eggsI think thats in the interest of consumers in Canada, Crowley said. Another area that some feel was a concession Canada made is intellectual property (IP), where the USMCA brings in tougher enforcement mechanisms and longer terms for copyrights. But in fact, these new IP measures will go a long way toward promoting innovation and protecting the economic activity associated with IP rights in Canada. Much of the IP chapter is a welcome modernization of a dated NAFTA agreement, said the MLI in a press release. Agnew points to labour mobility provisions not being rolled back and provisions on digital trade and data localization as being benefits of the modernized USMCA. Overall this is a perfectly fine agreement. It preserves our protected access to American markets, Crowley said. Higher Rates Financial markets expectations for a 0.25 percent rate hike on Oct. 24, the BoCs next rate decision, are virtually certain. This is up from a 90 percent chance on Sept. 28, according to Andrew Kelvin of TD Securities. He also notes that expectations for the current Bank of Canada 1.50 percent overnight rate target have moved slightly higher for the end of 2019, from 2.25 percent to 2.35 percent post the USMCA announcement. BMO is already forecasting an additional rate hike in 2019 for a total of three, or 0.75 percent; however, RBC is more sanguine in not changing its base-case economic outlook. The Canadian dollar surged to a four-month high of $US.078 on Oct. 1 when the trade deal was officially announced. Follow Rahul on Twitter @RV_ETBiz WASHINGTONThe Trump administration is reviewing ways to clamp down on the export of U.S. technology that Chinas government could use in its surveillance and internment of minority Muslims, amid reports of mass detentions of ethnic Uyghurs and others in the Xinjiang region. In a letter to the leaders of a congressional committee, seen by Reuters on Oct. 2, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said his department, in consultation with the State Department and other agencies, could announce export policy changes within weeks. We are conducting this review expeditiously and expect to publish amendments to the EAR (Export Administration Regulations) later this fall, Ross said in the letter to Senator Marco Rubio and Representative Chris Smith. Ross said the review included assessing whether to add Chinese individuals, businesses and others to a list of entities subject to special license requirements, revising licensing policy and updating technologies controlled for the protection of human rights. Any sanctions decision would be a rare move on human rights grounds by President Donald Trumps administration against China, with which it is engaged in a trade war while also seeking Beijings help to resolve a standoff over North Koreas nuclear weapons. Rubio and Smith, the Republican leaders of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, wrote to Ross in September urging the administration to broaden sanctions on China over its treatment of minority Muslims. Ross letter was a response to that letter. The State Department expressed deep concern last month over Chinas worsening crackdown in the Xinjiang region, as officials considered sanctions against Chinese senior officials and companies linked to allegations of human rights abuses. The Chinese regime has used the excuse of potential Islamic threats and ethnic riots to crack down on the local population in Xinjiang. Uyghurs and other Muslims are held in concentration camp-like facilities, known as re-education centers, are forbidden from using Islamic greetings, must learn Mandarin Chinese, and sing propaganda songs, according to a report by Human Rights Watch. Other countries such as France, Germany and Pakistan have called on China to close re-education camps in the Xinjiang region and to ease the pressure on the Muslims minority. The United Nations human rights panel said in August that China is believed to be holding up to one million ethnic Uyghurs. By Patricia Zengerle. Epoch Times staff member Emily ONeill contributed to this report. Colorado Bowling Alley Owner Dies in Freak Accident The popular owner of a local bowling alley in Florence, Colorado, was killed in a freak accident involving the pin-setting machine on Sept. 30. Ector Rodriguez, 65, of Penrose, Colorado, was an accomplished bowler and successful businessmanif success is measured by how much his customers liked him. His eight-lane bowling alley, Fremont Lanes, at 108 W. Main St. charged only $1 per gameand Rodriguez would keep the lanes open as long as anybody wanted to bowl. One of his customers, Susan Wilson, posted on her Facebook page about a time when she and a friend arrived at the alley just as Ector Rodriguez was locking uphe was literally standing at the door with the key in the lock. When he saw Wilson and her friend, he reopened the alley so that the pair could bowl a few frames. Rodriguez not only opened the alley and turned on the lightshe opened the kitchen and the bar, serving up some beverages and some home-made onion rings. He must have known that the cost of turning on the lights would be more than the money he made from the bowlersbut locals say that he loved bowling and loved anyone else who did. And they of course loved him back. When the Canon City Record posted the story of his passing on its Facebook page, more than 400 friends and fellow bowlers reacted, shared, and posted condolences and remembrances of the man. Susan Miller posted on Facebook, He was a pillar in this small town, and his loss will be felt for a long time. Tragic Accident Florence police and emergency personnel were called to the Fremont Lanes at about 1:20 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 30, the Gazette reported. When they arrived they found Ector Rodriguez wedged in the pin-setting machinery, unconscious and not breathing. Local TV station KOAA reported that Rodriguez was trying to clear a jammed pin when the machine descended, impaling him. Rodriguez went back to fix one of the pin-setter, but took to too long, so one of his employees walked back to check. She walked back there, found him impaled in the machine, called 911, Florence Police Chief, Mike Delaurentis told KOAA. The bowling alley was locked the next day, with a sign inside the glass saying closed until further notice. There was also a sign outside the glass reading, You will be missed. Other friends left a stuffed animal, some flowers, and card to the Rodriguez family outside the bowling alley door. KOAA reported that the bouquet bore a note reading, A hero of our community! If you dont want to hang out in a bar, and you want a date night, you want a place to go, this place is the place, said a local resident who gave her name as Makara. My heart hurts deeply for the fact that hes not here anymore, she told KOAA. This is going to be a loss to downtown and being a small town, that kind of loss is a big loss. He should have died a 99-year-old man with his family surrounding him, you know? Susan Miller posted. From NTD.tv Watch Next: How a Traditional Spiritual Practice Changed the Lives of These People The practice has attracted tens of millions across the world and at its core are just three simple principles: truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance. Denver Zoo Evacuated After Threat of Airplane Attack The Denver Zoo had to evacuate some 1,000 guests after receiving a threat that someone was going to crash an airplane into the zoo. The zoo received a phone call around 3 p.m. on Oct. 2 telling zoo staff that an airplane was going to crash into the 80-acre facility. ALERT: Denver Police are investigating a threat to the Denver Zoo that has not been deemed to be credible at this time. The zoo has been evacuated and people/motorists are encouraged to avoid the area. Updates will be provided as they become available. pic.twitter.com/JZBjF7DGKT Denver Police Dept. (@DenverPolice) October 2, 2018 According to a Denver Zoo Facebook post, zoo staff immediately called Denver police and other government agencies, and started clearing the park of guests. At the same time, zoo staff tried to get all the animals into indoor enclosures or some area of safety. The zoo did not tell patrons why they were being asked to leaveguests were simply told that they needed to leave immediately, and on foot. Guests were not allowed to take their cars. According to the Denver Post, zoo spokesman Jake Kubie said, There has been a threat that were taking seriously. Denver Zoo President Bert Vescolani told the Denver Post that zoo staff decided unilaterally to evacuate the 1,000 guests who had paid to enter the park that day. Our team made the call to evacuate the zoo, he stated. Vescolani pointed out that zoo staff is trained to evacuate guests and secure the animals in emergencies. We were on it, he said. I think it went very well from our perspective. Update: Denver Police investigated and deemed that the threat was not credible. The Zoo will open at the normal time tomorrow morning. Well share more information as it becomes available. https://t.co/vUWxrSkmIZ Denver Zoo (@DenverZoo) October 2, 2018 Once the park was empty, Denver police spokesman Sonny Jackson explained that someone had called the zoo, threatening to crash a plane into it. It took about 45 minutes to clear and secure that park. Denver police took another hour to determine that the threat was not credible. According to the zoo Facebook page, Denver police allowed zoo guests to return to their cars around 4:45 p.m. A Mystery Threat Investigators took almost two hours to determine that there was no credible threat to the zoo. Only then could authorities start asking about who made the call, and why. Were still investigating: Who made the call? Who made the threat? Jackson said at a news conference. If you call in a threat, it is a criminal act. Vescolani said that the zoo was considering some way to compensate zoo patrons whose visit was interrupted. He assured potential customers that there was no risk and that they should visit the zoo, this one minor incident notwithstanding, and that the zoo would be open during its usual hours on Oct. 3. Its a good place, a safe place, Vescolani told the Denver Post. We have a crazy strong (safety) record. The Denver Zoo Facebook statement said, in part, Our top priority is the safety and comfort of our guests, staff, and animals. We take every threat very seriously and consistently review and practice our procedures to maintain the utmost safety standards. The Denver Zoo is an 80-acre facility within the border of Denvers City Park, in the heart of downtown Denver. The zoo was founded in 1896. From NTD.tv End Divisions or Put Brexit at Risk, Britains Prime Minister Theresa May Tells Party BIRMINGHAM, EnglandBritish Prime Minister Theresa May appealed to her Conservative Party on Oct. 3 to unite behind her plan to leave the European Union, warning critics their arguments could put Brexit in jeopardy. On the final day of her partys annual conference, May sought to rally members by addressing their concerns that the Conservatives are becoming increasingly directionless under the weight of Brexit, urging them to look to a brighter future. Dancing onto the stage in the city of Birmingham to ABBAs Dancing Queen and a standing ovation, May poked fun at herself after her dance moves were mocked on a trip to Africa and after last years conference when her speech was disrupted by a coughing fit, a stage intruder, and a collapsing background set. It was a warm welcome for a leader whose fragile position at the helm of her party has come under further pressure after the EU rejected parts of her so-called Chequers plan and critics stepped up calls for her to ditch her strategy on Brexit, Britains most far-reaching policy shift for more than 40 years. With just six months before Britain is due to exit the EU, she has so far weathered the Brexit storm, shrugging off a barnstorming speech by her ex-foreign minister Boris Johnson that did little to hide his leadership ambitions. On Oct. 3, May was keen to show she was in charge of the Brexit talks. If we all go off in different directions in pursuit of our own vision of the perfect Brexit, we risk ending up with no Brexit at all, she said, a rebuff to euroskeptic lawmakers who have published their alternative plan for leaving the EU. And theres another reason why we need to come together. We are entering the toughest part of the negotiations If we stick together and hold our nerve, I know we can get a deal that delivers for Britain. She also tried to return to the message she gave when she was appointed prime minister in 2016, promising to help those who feel left behind and pledging to end her governments austerity push after nearly a decade of spending cuts. And in another rallying cry for unity, she repeatedly attacked the main opposition Labour Party, saying their policies, including a renationalization of mail, rail, and utilities, would mean increased taxes and business flight. Hard-left Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, she said, would outsource our conscience to the Kremlin. Unity? Her words were aimed at easing the growing frustration of some Conservatives who openly say their party is meandering without substantive new ideas, unable to set an agenda amid their divisive feuds over how to depart the EU. The heat she faces from some in the party was underlined less than an hour before her speech when Conservative lawmaker James Duddridge said he had submitted a letter calling on her to resign. Forty-eight such letters are needed to trigger a vote of confidence in the leader. Taking a swipe at hardline euroskeptic Johnson, May said she was making decisions on Brexit in the national interesta nod to her argument that her former foreign secretarys alternative Brexit proposals would tear the United Kingdom apart by placing Northern Ireland under EU customs rules and thereby detaching it from the rest of Britain. It is no surprise that we have had a range of different views expressed this week, May said. But my job as prime minister is to do what I believe to be in the national interest. With no agreement with the bloc over the terms of divorce or a future trade relationship, the last day of the conference marked the beginning of what some officials predict will be a frenzied couple of weeks of diplomacy between London and Brussels as the two sides try to pin down a deal. May and her team face weeks of difficult conversations with Brussels, especially after Hunt offended some in the bloc by comparing the EU to the old Soviet Union in asserting that the EU was trying to punish any member seeking to leave it. Brexit fans have their backs to the wall, said Franziska Brantner, European affairs spokeswoman for Germanys Greens party. Blaming the EU wont help them. By Elizabeth Piper, William James and Kylie MacLellan Watch Next: Brexit Negotiations Explained The referendum vote left the nation divided. This picture taken on November 13, 2009 shows a man (L) looking at fake iPhones displayed in a shop at a market known for counterfeit US goods and housed in the metro station connected to the Science and Technology Museum in Shanghai. (PHILIPPE LOPEZ/AFP/Getty Images) EU Report Says China Still Largest Source of Counterfeit Goods China remains the biggest source of counterfeit goods imported into the European Union, a new report states. More than 31 million products were confiscated by customs officials in 2017, of which 73 percent originated in the Peoples Republic of China, according to an annual report published by the European Communism on Sept. 27. The total value of the items would be 580 million euros ($669 million), if they were authentic. The knockoff products were confiscated for suspected violations of copyright, patents, and brand trademarks, the report said. The largest category of counterfeited items was food products (24 percent of the total), followed by toys and cigarettes at 11 percent and 9 percent, respectively. Seven percent of the seized goods were clothing items. According to the report, Hong Kong, at No. 2, accounted for about 10 percent of the faked products. The third-biggest source, Turkey, provided less than 5 percent of the total. Hong Kong and China were noted as the top two sources for export counterfeit mobile phones and accessories, CDs and DVDs, and office supplies such as ink cartridges, toner, labels, tags, and stickers. The EUs Customs Union is on the front line when it comes to protecting citizens from fake, counterfeit and sometimes highly dangerous goods, said Pierre Moscovici, EU Commissioner for Economic and Financial Affairs, in the report. Stopping imports of counterfeits into the EU also supports jobs and the wider economy as a whole. The European Union stands in support of intellectual property and will continue our campaign to protect consumer health as well as protecting businesses from criminal infringement of their rights. Aside from Europe, the U.S. market is one of the key destinations for knockoff goods. According to a 2017 report on the seizure of counterfeits by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the total value of fakes originating from Hong Kong and China seized by customs agents that year would be about $940 million if the goods had been authentic. Counterfeit goods cost Germanys economy about 30 billion euros (about $36.7 billion) annually, according to a report by Deutsche Welle. In 2016 alone, European customs officials seized more than 41 million intellectual property-infringing goods, estimated at a value of 670 million euros (about $820 million), according to Aktion Plagiarius. China was the top country of origin for those goods. Washington has accused the Chinese regime of longstanding protectionism and massive theft of intellectual property from American companies. In July, President Donald Trump and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker announced a U.S.EU trade agreement in which both parties would work toward zero tariffs, zero non-tariff barriers, and zero subsidies on non-auto industrial goods, according to a joint statement by the two leaders. Father of Two Has Brain Injury After Unprovoked Attack in San Francisco A single blow to the head knocked Christopher Mathews to the ground, leaving the father of two with a traumatic brain injury and no certainty of when he would fully recover. Mathews, 39, was on a rare couples night out in San Francisco with his wife Rebecca, 38. The couple was waiting at the intersection of First and Howard streets for a car they had called for via Lyft, a ride-share service. Surveillance footage released by police showed that on Sept. 8, just before 11.30 p.m., Mathews walked up to a white car he thought was the ride. A few seconds later, a man stepped out from the rear right door of the car and suddenly punched Mathews in the head. He fell backward. His head slammed the pavement. The surveillance footage stopped soon after two individuals were seen running toward Mathews while the white car sped away. According to San Francisco Chronicle, Rebecca rushed to her husband and cradled his head, blood everywhere. Life-Threatening Bleeding Mathews spent four days in the intensive care unit of San Francisco General Hospital. Medical imaging showed the attack left him with several fracturesone on the back of his head, and three on the front, the Chronicle reported. There was also life-threatening bleeding in his brain. He initially struggled to remember his wife after he woke up. Some days, he didnt know who I was. Some days he didnt know he had kids, Rebecca told the Chronicle. Mathewss condition has improved gradually since the assault, including long-term memory, speech, and physical skills. But no one knows when Mathews will fully recover from the traumatic brain injury. I hope he can go back to work one day. I hope he can be the father I know he can be to our kids. But the brain is a different type of injury. Theres no time frame for it, she added. Mathews is an insurance underwriter, and Rebecca is an IT professional. Both work in San Francisco. A GoFundMe campaign was started to raise money to help the family, and has received more than $60,000 as of Oct. 3. San Francisco Isnt the Same Police are seeking the man who attacked Mathews, and on Sept. 28 appealed to the public for help in the case. Police have released a sketch of the suspect alongside the surveillance footage of the incident. The vehicle is described as a white four-door sedan with a black roof and silver rims. I feel like the city of San Francisco isnt the same, Rebecca, who has lived in the city for 12 years, told the Chronicle. Be on your guard at all times. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the San Francisco Police Tip Line at 415-575-4444, or send a text to TIP411 with SFPD at the start of the message. You can remain anonymous. From NTD.tv An American Airlines airline plane is seen on the tarmac at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Sept. 19, 2016, in Phoenix. (Daniel Slim/AFP/Getty Images) Flight Diverted After Unruly Passenger Starts Pull Ups on Overhead Bins An American Airlines flight was diverted after an unruly passenger started to do pull ups from the overhead bin, refusing to sit down. The flight from Phoenix was diverted to Kansas City, where law enforcement removed the passenger, before heading to its original destination, Boston. The flight, carrying 147 passengers, left around 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 1. Other passengers reported a man who had boarded with a woman and two dogs appeared to be intoxicated, according to WBZ. He was leaning up against where you put the bags overhead and a passenger came by and said What are you going to do, some pull ups? and the guy actually grabbed on to it and started doing some pull ups on the plane in front of everybody, passenger David Markoski told reporters with WBZ. The man ordered beer and alcohol, and a short while later the situation became tense, according to Markoski. He would not sit down. The flight attendant probably asked him about three or four times to sit down and he refused to sit down and then he really got verbally abusive with her, starting calling her names, Markoski said. The flight was forced to land in Kansas City, Missouri, late Monday night where law enforcement came on board and took the man off the jet. The FBI in Kansas City told WBZ-TV there were no arrests and no charges filed. The mans name has not been made public. American Airlines confirmed to media that the flight had been diverted due to an unruly passenger, who was removed by law enforcement. FBI agents met the plane at Kansas City and interviewed the passenger, according to the Boston Globe. The FBI did speak with the passenger. The passenger was removed from the plane, a spokeswoman for the FBIs Kansas City field office told the station. No one was taken into custody nor have charges been filed. The flight continued and landed at Bostons Logan Airport just after 1 a.m. Tuesday, 90 minutes behind schedule. Hong Kong's Catholic bishop Michael Yeung at a Reuters interview at his office in Hong Kong, China on Oct. 3, 2018. (Bobby Yip/Reuters) Hong Kong Bishop Fears Chinese Catholic Suppression to Continue Despite Vatican Pact HONG KONGHong Kongs leading Catholic cleric said on Oct. 3 that he feared continued suppression of Catholics in mainland China despite a landmark accord struck last month between the Vatican and Beijings Communist Party leadership. Michael Yeung, the Bishop of Hong Kong, said it would take time to address issues beyond the appointment of bishops agreed in the accord. These included the release of detained clerics and full free expression of religious belief in China. The details of the provisional agreement, which gives the Vatican its long-desired approval of the appointment of bishops in China, have not been made public by either side. Yeung, whose Hong Kong diocese has for decades served as a free Catholic beachhead on the edge of an officially atheist China, said he had not seen the details. I dont think the signing of this provisional agreement means the solution of everything. It takes time, it will take a few years to see, he told Reuters in a rare interview. A provisional agreement could not stop the suppression, could not stop the churches being torn down and the young folks under 18 still not allowed to go to church. These things will take time to solve, he said. Chinas Foreign Ministry did not respond immediately to a faxed request for comment. The country is mostly closed for the Golden Week holiday. Yeung urged China to provide information about priests and bishops detained on the mainland, some of whom are elderly and held for decades. A Reuters report on Sept. 30 cited three sources familiar with the matter who said the plight of the detained clergy remains unresolved and Beijing has provided little clear information about their fate. Yeung said many Hong Kong Catholics had been praying for one of the longest held, Bishop James Su Zhimin, who was arrested in 1997 in Hebei province and would now be 86 years old. Whether he is in prison, or kept secret in some other place, or whether he has already died, nobody really knows, he said. Su was part of the underground church, which has been loyal to the Pope for decadesa movement that some critics of the accord fear will be crushed by the state-backed official church that has at times previously chosen its own bishops. The deal allows for the Pope to approve bishops first selected by church communities and the Chinese authorities, meaning Chinas 12 million Catholics split between the two camps must now effectively integrate. Hong Kong is one of the most important Catholic cities in Asia, home to an extensive network of aid agencies, missions, scholars and media that have supported Catholics in China and elsewhere. By Greg Torode Hurricane Leslie, Hurricane Sergio: Latest Updates on Path of Storms Top video: Hurricane Florence as seen from space U.S. hurricane forecasters are issuing advisories for two hurricanes. Hurricane Leslie Hurricane Leslie has formed in the central Atlantic Ocean, and the storm is heading to the north, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) on Oct. 3. In a 5 a.m. update, the NHC said Leslie is located about 505 miles east-southeast of Bermuda. There are no coastal warnings or watches in effect. The storm has 75 mph winds, enough to make it a Category 1 storm. The storm is expected to strengthen even more. A northward motion is forecast to begin tonight, and this motion should continue through Friday night, the NHC said. The main impacts to land posed by Hurricane Leslie are large swells in Bermuda, the Bahamas, and the East Coast of the United States. Large swells generated by Leslie will continue to affect portions of the southeastern coast of the United States, Bermuda, and the Bahamas during the next few days. Swells are expected to increase near the coasts of New England and Atlantic Canada by the end of the week, according to the agency. In its discussion of the storm, the NHC said Leslie is forecast to remain within favorable environmental conditions consisting of warm water and low vertical wind shear over the next day or two. These conditions should allow for some additional strengthening. After 48 hours, Leslie will be moving over cooler waters, which should induce gradual weakening later in the period. Its not clear yet if the storm will track toward the United Kingdom, Ireland, or elsewhere in Europe. Hurricane Sergio Hurricane Sergio rapidly strengthened on Oct. 2 to a Category 3 storm with 115 mph winds. As of the NHCs 2 a.m. update, the storm is 855 miles south-southwest of Baja California, Mexico. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. The storm is predicted to move toward the west away from North America. A west-northwestward to northwestward motion at a slightly slower forward speed is expected over the next few days, the agency said. The storm is predicted to strengthen over the next day before it weakens Friday. The global models suggest that the shear currently affecting Sergio will decrease over the next 24 to 36 hours, which should allow for strengthening, said the NHC in a discussion of the storm. The NHC intensity forecast calls for Sergio to reach peak intensity in about 36 hours, and it is near the upper-end of the intensity guidance. After that time, slightly cooler waters and the entrainment of drier mid-level air are forecast to cause gradual weakening, but Sergio is expected to remain a hurricane through the entire forecast period. Remnants of Rosa AccuWeather reported that the remnant of Hurricane Rosa, which hit Mexico as a tropical storm is slated to still bring heavy rain in New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. The storm could bring between 1 and 3 inches of rain in desert areas. In some desert areas, this is as much rain that typically falls in six months to a year, AccuWeather pointed out. LA Deputies Push Womans Stalled Electric Wheelchair This pair of Los Angeles Sheriffs Department deputies went the extra mile to help an older womanin fact, they pushed her heavy wheelchair that extra mile. The Lancaster, California Sheriffs Station got a call a wheelchair blocking traffic on Oct. 2. Two officers were sent to investigate. When Deputies Chapman and Montanez arrived on the scene, they saw an older woman in a stalled electric wheelchair sitting immobile on the side of the road. The chairs batteries had run down and the lady was stuck. The first solution the deputies considered was simplethey offered to give the woman a ride to her home, which was about a mile away. The lady roundly rejected that optionshe needed her wheelchair to get around, and without it, she would still be stuck. On top of that, her expensive wheelchair would be sitting by the side of the road, still creating a traffic hazard and potentially inviting theft. This briefly stumped the deputies. The wheelchair was very large and heavytoo big to fit in the trunk or back seat of the patrol car. An Irresistible Force Meets an Unmovable Burdenand Triumphs It didnt take long for the two deputies to imagine a more acceptableand considerably more strenuousalternative. Montanez offered to sacrifice himself for the good of the populace he had pledged to protect. While Chapman and the lady followed behind in the air-conditioned cruiser, Montanez pushed the heavy wheelchair the mile to the ladys home. Chapman helped as best he couldby making jokes about how slowly his partner was pushing this heavy burden. You can pick it uponly about one mile an hour right now, Chapman radioed to his laboring partner. The wheelchairs owner got a good chuckle out of that. Bravo to these two Los Angeles Sheriffs deputies for showing their willingness to work hardand to make bad jokesfor the good of the community. From NTD.tv The logo of Mazda Motor Corp. is displayed at the company's news conference venue in Tokyo, Japan May 11, 2018. (Kim Kyung-Hoon/Reuters) Mazda Aims for All of Its Vehicles to Be Electric Hybrid, EVs by 2030 TOKYOMazda Motor Corp said on Oct. 2 that all of the vehicles it produces by 2030 will incorporate electrification, while 5 percent of its cars will be all-battery electric vehicles (EVs). The Japanese automaker joins a growing number of global automakers who are planning to reduce emissions by producing more gasoline-hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrids and battery EVs. By 2030, Mazda expects that internal combustion engines combined with some form of electrification will account for 95 percent of the vehicles it produces and battery electric vehicles will account for 5 percent, the automaker said in a statement. Mazda has said that it plans to market an all-battery EV in 2020. On Oct. 2 it said it would develop two battery EVs, one which will be powered solely by battery and another which will pair a battery with a range extender powered by the automakers rotary engine. By Naomi Tajitsu North Carolina Farmers Learned Nothing From Previous Hurricanes As Over 4 Million Animals Drown There are roughly 9 million pigs in North Carolinathe same number as people. There are also a multitude of poultry farms containing 819 million chickens and 33.5m turkeys and there is even a thriving fish farm industry in North Carolina. Many thought after Hurricane Matthew in 2016 and Hurricane Floyd in 1999 drowned thousands of hogs and millions of birds, farmers would question the wisdom of situating concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) in flood plains. But apparently not. At least 5,500 hogs drowned during Hurricane Florence and 4.1 million birds, representing 57 farms and 211 poultry houses. In some cases the animal death toll from Florence was double that of previous hurricanes. Video footage shows hogs wading neck- deep through floodwaters and dead chickens floating like dirty pillows in the dark water, reported Indy Week. When the force of Hurricane Florence became known, animal welfare activists pleaded with meat producers to open barn doors to give animals a fighting chance to no avail. No doubt, until their last minutes, they [the animals] did everything possible to keep their heads above water in a relentless struggle to preserve their own lives. They probably cried out in panic for relief that would never come, wrote one web site. Legislators are well aware of the results of locating CAFOs sites in floodplains. After Hurricane Floyd, in 1999, the state bought and shut down some hog farmers in low-lying areas. After Hurricane Matthew, Smithfield Foods, a subsidiary of Murphy-Brown, faced millions in nuisance lawsuits from neighbors. But coverage tends to focus on the toxic effects of manure lagoons spilling into waterways and the economic losses to the North Carolina agriculture industry, not the close to four million animals who farmers left to drown. Who were these factory farmers? Sanderson Farms admitted to 1.7 chicken lost so far and Butterball said many of our North Carolina-based processing plants, hatcheries and feed mills have been impacted by the storm, and we continue to see flooding and power outages throughout the region. But the identities of most CAFOs with thousands of drowned animals are hidden. In North Carolina, farm level data is protected information, Heather Overton, Assistant Director of told me, referring me to the 1979 confidentiality state statute 106-24.1. which states, All information published by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services pursuant to this Part shall be classified so as to prevent the identification of information received from individual farm operators. Such confidentiality laws protect more than the animal toll from Hurricane Florence. They are likely also why the identities of farms with millions of cases of bird flu and porcine epidemic diarrhea virus in recent years were kept secret even as the public continued to buy their products and neighbors and the surrounding environment were jeopardized. Only a handful of photos of bird-flu poultry being depopulated and dead piglets dropped into landfills reached the unwitting, deceived public. That is why Overton denied my request to send a photographer to document the disposal of the Hurricane Florence carcasses. (Were they even disposed of or were they sold as food some cynics have asked.) Confidentiality laws are so unyielding, even when an Alabama and Texas ranch produced cows with the always fatal mad cow disease their identities were kept secret and they were allowed to resume operations in 30 days. If anyone questions whether agriculture departments serve the public and consumers or meat producers thats the answer. The volume of animals that factory farmers produce and process is so high, the loss of over four million animals during Septembers Hurricane Florence is considered nothing but an animal cycle and fully insured. It is not consequential to the factory farm industrynothing to see herewhich nonetheless hides the gruesome photos from the public to whom it might be consequential. In addition to the agricultural cruelty, one must marvel as the sheer stupidity of the North Carolina meat producers. Havent we learned by now that referring to hurricanes as once in a lifetime storms, or their impact as 100-year floods, suggesting that such an occurrence will never happen again is, to be charitable, seriously inaccurate, writes Dan Murphy in Pork Business. Martha Rosenberg is author of the award-cited food expose Born With a Junk Food Deficiency, distributed by Random House. A nationally known muckraker, she has lectured at the university and medical school level and appeared on radio and television. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Packages Containing Ricin Sent to White House, Pentagon by Former Navy Sailor: Report The packages containing a suspicious substance that later tested positive for the poison ricin were sent by a former U.S. Navy sailor, according to a report on Oct. 3. The packages intercepted on Oct. 2 were addressed to President Donald Trump at the White House, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Adm. John Richardson, the chief of naval operations, at the Pentagon, and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas). Two people at Cruzs office in Houston, Texas were hospitalized after being exposed, according to the Houston Fire Department, which was working to determine the nature of the white powdery substance. The FBIs Houston office said late Tuesday that lab results indicated no hazardous substance in the package sent to Cruzs office. Pentagon officials said that it detected the suspicious substance during mail screening at a remote facility while the FBI said it was conducting further testing on the packages sent to the Pentagon and White House. In coordination with the Pentagon Force Protection Agency, FBI Special Agents took possession of two suspicious envelopes that had been screened at the Pentagon mail facility. Those envelopes are currently undergoing further testing. As this is ongoing, we will have no further comment, the FBI said. BREAKING: U.S. officials say return address on one of envelopes mailed to Pentagon lead authorities to suspect former U.S. Navy sailor responsible. Tip from U.S. Secret Service to Pentagon Monday led to discovery hours later of 2 packages sent to Mattis and Navy's top admiral Lucas Tomlinson (@LucasFoxNews) October 3, 2018 U.S. officials believe packages sent to White House, Pentagon and Senator Ted Cruz's Texas office Monday all part of coordinated effort. None of packages sent to White House or Pentagon made it inside, all discovered during screening. U.S. Secret Service tipped off Pentagon Lucas Tomlinson (@LucasFoxNews) October 3, 2018 Former Navy Sailor Anonymous officials told Fox News that the packages sent to the White House, Pentagon, and Cruz were coordinated by a former Navy sailor who has not been identified. One of the envelopes addressed to the Pentagon contained a return address that led investigators to the sailor. No other reports appear to provide any description a suspect or suspects as of Wednesday afternoon. A Department of Defense official told the Military Times that the Pentagon was aware of the reports that the sender was potentially a former service member but declined to comment. Pentagon reporters just got a look at the facility that caught the suspected ricin letters addressed to #SecDef and @CNORichardson they screen about 500,000 pieces of mail a year pic.twitter.com/cnroUABRAG Tara Copp (@TaraCopp) October 2, 2018 Ricin and Castor Beans Ricin is a poison that is made from castor beans. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ricin can be in the form of a powder, a mist, or a pellet, or it can be dissolved in water or weak acid. While initial reports indicated the packages tested positive for ricin, a Defense Department spokeswoman said on Wednesday that a preliminary analysis indicated the presence of castor beans but not the poison in a finished form. According to our preliminary analysis, the substance was castor seeds, from which ricin is derived. The FBI is still investigating, Dana White, the spokeswoman, said in a statement sent to The Hill. Swallowing castor seeds can cause injury or worse due to the released ricin, according to the CDC. From NTD.tv Puppies Snouts Shut with Rubber Bands, Owner Gets Misdemeanor Charges A dog owner faces misdemeanor charges after two puppies were rescued on Sept. 12, with rubber bands tightly wrapped around their snouts. The two puppies, renamed Wesley and Violet, were found by a maintenance worker who had come to inspect a flooded apartment in Wichita, Kansas. The worker saw the puppies trapped in a kennel in a corner of the apartment, huddled in ankle-deep feces and urine, completely quiet, the Wichita Animal Action League (WAAL) said. The smell overwhelmed him. Animals are not allowed in the apartment. Their mouths were wrapped shut with rubber bands, to keep them quiet so the landlord wouldnt find out, WAAL wrote on Facebook. This Good Samaritan alerted a foster who alerted us. We called Animal Control who sped to the scene and met us. The sight and smell were atrocious. The rubber bands appeared to have been removed within 24 hours of their rescue, according to the doctor who oversaw the removal of the rubber bands. If you cant take care of your puppies just dont get them, a staff said in a Sept. 13 video posted by WAAL. You dont have to rubber-band their mouths shut. Misdemeanor Charges The original owner of the puppies faces misdemeanor charges for animal cruelty, Kake.com reported on Sept. 26. A warrant has been issued for her arrest. Wichita Police Animal Services Commander Lt. Brian Sigman explained why the case did not rise to felony charges. Because it is not going to be a debilitating injury or an injury thats going to be around the rest of their life, that youre going to be able to see. You cant charge it as felony. Thats the reason we had to go misdemeanor, he said, Kake.com reported. Awaiting Adoption Since the ordeal, the puppies have been transported to a foster home and are awaiting adoption. Theyre already doing great. The scarring is already going away. It just makes us so happy theyre already healing and theyre ready to move on to their next life, said Stephanie McCurdy, Wichita Animal Action League, Kake.com reported. Two days following the rescue, WAAL released a video of the puppies playing together. If youve applied to adopt them, we HAVE received it! Please keep in mind they are technically evidence and they cant go anywhere for quite a while. Were getting through the apps as quickly as possible and well be in touch, WAAL wrote. From NTD.tv USC students on their way to attend a memorial service on April 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California (FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP/Getty Images) China Said to Issue Secret Order Barring Senior Officials Children From Studying in US Chinese regime officials have issued a secret order that forbids children of high-ranking Communist Party officials from studying in the United States, and also directs that those already abroad must be repatriated by the end of the year, according to a Japanese report. The Japanese edition of the Business Journal reported on Oct. 1 that the instructions came after the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) reacted with alarm to U.S. President Donald Trumps Aug. 7 statement that almost every student that comes over to this country is a spy. Trump made the statement in indirect reference to China while hosting CEOs and senior White House staff at a dinner, according to an Aug. 8 Politico report. At the event, the president also discussed the CCPs One Belt, One Road international investment program, which he said had the potential to disrupt world trade, an attendee told Politico. At a Senate Committee on Foreign Relations hearing on July 24, Dan Blumenthal, director of Asian studies at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), recommended that the U.S. government impose visa limitations on the children of the CCP elite as a means of economic pressure. The United States and China have been engaged in a high-intensity trade war since July, with both sides slapping tariffs on tens or hundreds of billions of dollars worth of imports. Washington has accused the Chinese regime of longstanding protectionism and massive theft of intellectual property from American companies. During the 2016-2017 academic year, international students contributed $36.9 billion to the U.S. economy and generated 450,266 jobs, Business Journal reported, citing U.S. State Department data. Of the more than 1.2 million international students in the United States, about 330,000 are from China. That makes China the top country of origin for foreign students at U.S. colleges and universities, according to a recent study on Beijings influence on American academia. China was ranked first for eight consecutive years. Since the late 1990s, growing numbers of Party officials children have emigrated to the United States. In 2012, Lin Zhe, a professor from the CCPs Central Party School and a member of the National Peoples Congress, said that 1.18 million senior officials spouses and children had emigrated between 1995 and 2005. Xi Mingze, daughter of Chinese leader Xi Jinping, attended Harvard University from 2010 to 2014 under a pseudonym; she returned to China upon graduation and lives in Beijing with her parents. In 2012, Business Insider reported that Xi Mingze spent her time in the United States under round-the-clock protection by Chinese bodyguards and the FBI. The United States is the most popular destination for the children of high-ranking Party officials. In 2011, a netizen asserted on Chinese social media that almost 75 percent of ministerial-level Party officials had children who held U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, and that the number jumped to 91 percent among their grandchildren. The post was removed by censors within a minute of its publishing. In December 2014, Hong Kongs Apple Daily reported that the United States is also the No. 1 destination for corrupt Chinese officials who fled. Over 7,000 fugitive Chinese, with personal assets worth almost $50 billion, were living in the United States, the report said. A study by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences said that 18,000 corrupt officials escaped from China between 1990 and 2008, taking within them 800 billion yuan (about $116 billion). Rural Counties Seek to Form a New California Proponents of an effort by the majority of Californias 58 counties to form a new state have set a second constitutional convention of delegates for Oct. 6 in Irvine. If such a secession effort is successful, as many as 51 counties would split from California. The New California entity would have a total population of up to 18 million people, making it the fifth-most-populous state in the nation. The remaining seven countiesSacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Napa, Marin, Alameda, and San Mateowith a population of about 22 million, would trail only Texas by population. The New California movement bases itself on the principles of the U.S. Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution. Supporters plan to follow the same path taken by West Virginia in splitting from Virginia in 1861. We have the instrument to do it. It is called the Declaration of Independence, and they cannot stop it, said Paul Preston, a radio talk show host and a founder of this movement. Grievances The process of forming the new state will include articulating grievances against the current state government for having failed to represent the views of those in the seceding counties. The Declaration of Independence states: whenever any form of government becomes destructive, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government. In 1861, the western regions of Virginia filed grievances against, and later broke away from, Virginia, because Virginia wanted to continue the institution of slavery. Today, the activists in the New California movement are filing grievances against the current state of California for a long list of issues that include unfair electoral district design, corrupt election procedures, sanctuary state policies, and so on. Each week activists announce one new grievance to the general public in front of about 20 county government centers throughout California. Preston said that this was how things got announced in the olden days. So far there have been 36 grievances announced to the public. Preston told The Epoch Times there would be more than 50 to come. Approval This is a constitutionally driven movement, said Preston. Article IV section 3 of the Constitution reads: New States may be admitted by the Congress into this Union; but no new State shall be formed or erected within the Jurisdiction of any other State; nor any State be formed by the Junction of two or more States, or Parts of States, without the Consent of the Legislatures of the States concerned as well as of the Congress. The first step the activists for the new state must take is to get approval from the current state legislature, and then later to get the approval of Congress. Regarding the approval from the current State Legislature, the partisans for the new state believe the upcoming state budget and financial problems will actually create a win-win situation for the two future states when they split. Based on a study by the California Policy Center, state and local public entities owe a total debt of around $1.3 trillion. The activists for the new state believe that California will eventually run out of money. In order to deal with its own financial problems, California would be willing to cut a financial deal with New California and then let it break away. Rich in Resources New California, after split, will be an agricultural state with rich natural resources including mines, natural water, and oil. Preston said the new state will have fewer environmental regulations, and will welcome investments in the mining and oil industries. The new state will also be a right-to-work state, meaning the political powers of the labor unions will be limited. The new state will take the southern border away from California, and it will not be a sanctuary state. Preston suggested that the new state legislators would only meet for 60 days every two years. Preston said that two thousand bills were introduced this year alone by the California State Legislature, and 600 of them ended up on Jerry Browns desk. That is outrageous. That should not happen. That is why New California is rising, Preston said. Recently there have been two other similar efforts aimed to split California. Prop. 9 was put on this years state ballot to split California into three states, but has already been struck down by the State Supreme Court. Preston said that the Constitution never required this process to be decided by voters. Putting the new state on the ballot to be voted is an unconstitutional process. Another effort is called the Jefferson State movement, which proposed to form a new state by joining together some of the counties from both Oregon and California. This effort currently is still in progress. Preston, in his radio program, asked Californians around the nation to come home: We need you to build New California. We need to take a new hold of California and do the right thing. Preston also claimed that this was a nonpartisan movement. History is in the making. There will be one more star on our flag, said Paul Taylor, a leader in this movement and a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate in this years California primary. A United States of America with 51 states will be much stronger. We will demonstrate to the world that we can do this, said Preston. We can declare our independence and we can become free people again in New California. Sheriff: 2 Men Dead After Car Crashes Into Florida Apartment GREENACRES, Fla.Authorities say two men are dead after their car crashed into an apartment in Florida. The Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office said in a news release that deputies are investigating reports of gunfire in the area before the Wednesday morning crash to help determine whether the victims were shot before the crash. Officials said no one was injured at the Palo Verde Apartments in Greenacres. Officials evacuated other residents in the building after the crash. Neighbors told news outlets they heard a loud boom before the crash, which occurred just after 3 a.m. Greenacres is near West Palm Beach. The Supreme Court of the United States in Washington on Sept. 22, 2017. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times) Supreme Court Considers Whether Dementia Makes Death Penalty Cruel Convicted cop-killer Vernon Madison shouldnt be executed because he cant remember committing the 1985 murder that landed him on death row, his attorney told the Supreme Court Oct. 2. The high court has been asked to consider whether the Eighth Amendments ban on cruel and unusual punishment allows the execution of a prisoner whose mental disability leaves him without any recollection of committing the offense that led to the sentence of death. In this case, Madison suffers from vascular dementia and has experienced several strokes that have led to severe cognitive dysfunction and a degenerative medical condition. His lawyer says Madison is blind, as well as incapable of walking or speaking. At issue is whether a murderer can escape punishment merely because his body has been ravaged by time and common age-related diseases. Not executing Madison would be unfair to the victim and his family, the government argued. That would also provide incentives to other death-row inmates to drag out the appeals process, as Madison did for years, in the hope that they, too, can hope to live long lives, continuing long after their victims bodies have turned to dust. Madison, now 68, killed on-duty detective Julius Schulte, a 22-year veteran of the Mobile, Alabama, police department, on April 18, 1985. Madison had broken up with his girlfriend. At the request of neighbors, Schulte was guarding the woman and her 11-year-old daughter while Madison removed his belongings from their house. Madison pretended to leave, and armed with a pistol, hid behind the police car where Schulte was sitting. He put two bullets in Schultes head, killing him. He also shot his ex-girlfriend in the back as she attempted to flee. She survived. It wasnt a close case. Three eyewitnesses watched Madison murder Schulte and try to murder his ex-girlfriend. Madison was convicted of capital murder and sentenced to death. The state appeals court reversed, finding that prosecutors unfairly excluded blacks from the jury. At a second trial, Madison was again convicted and capital punishment was ordered. The appellate court reversed this conviction because prosecutors presented inadmissible evidence. A third trial ended in Madisons conviction and the imposition of the death penalty; this time, the appeals court refused to reverse. Madison kept his lawyers busy filing a series of collateral challenges at the state and federal level. All failed. In 2015, the Supreme Court refused to intervene. Then, beginning in May 2015, he experienced a series of debilitating strokes in prison that caused significant brain damage leading to long-term memory loss. Madison now has encephalomalacia, which means tissue is dead in sections of his brain. He also suffers from vascular dementia, cognitive defects, severe memory loss, and other chronic conditions that have decreased his capacity to rationally understand his circumstances, according to a case summary provided by the Supreme Courts press office. Madisons medical condition convinced the Supreme Court to put his execution on hold. On Feb. 26, the court agreed to review his case. Precedent The Supreme Court has ruled previously on similar death-row cases. In Ford v. Wainwright (1986), the court determined that the Eighth Amendment forbids the execution of an inmate who is mentally incompetent. In Panetti v. Quarterman (2007) the court found that the lower courts should have considered a condemned mans claim that he suffered from a severe, documented mental illness that is the source of gross delusions preventing him from comprehending the meaning and purpose of his death sentence. What the court has said is that our norms, our values are implicated when we do things to really fragile, really vulnerable people, Madisons attorney, Bryan A. Stevenson, told the eight justices. Stevenson said he wasnt arguing that there should be a categorical ban on executing people with a certain kind of condition. Instead, he noted the court has ruled, in the Ford and Panetti cases, that it is unconstitutional to execute people who are incompetent. The court has said: Look, the death penalty gives the state an incredible power. Its an awesome power. The authority to execute someone who is not an immediate threat is an awesome power. And that power has to be utilized fairly, reliably, and humanely, the lawyer said. This courts jurisprudence in Ford and Panetti speaks to the humane part. And what this court said is that if someone is disabled and incompetent and fragile and bewildered and confused, in the way that we have seen, in the context of insanity, in the context of other kinds of mental illness, it is simply not humane to execute them. Dementia in this case, Stevenson said, renders Mr. Madison frail, bewildered, vulnerable in a way that cannot be reconciled with executing him because of his incompetency. Alabama Deputy Attorney General Thomas R. Govan Jr. told the court that Madisons health problems have no bearing on the constitutionality or propriety of the State of Alabamas pursuit of the death penalty in this murder case. Nothing about Mr. Madisons conditions impact the states interest in seeking retribution for a heinous crime. Suspect Arrested in Utah, Linked to Suspicious White House, Pentagon Packages A man has been arrested in relation to the suspicious packages sent to President Donald Trump and officials at the Pentagon, according to Utah police officials. At least three suspicious packages were intercepted during a routine check at a remote location, addressed to Trump at the White House in addition to Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Adm. John Richardson, the chief of naval operations, at the Pentagon. Another package was sent to Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas). It was initially reported that the packages could be laced with ricin but officials said on Oct. 3, that they contained castor beans, the unprocessed form of the poison, which can be deadly if swallowed but arent as toxic. BREAKING: FBI arrest Logan man suspected of mailing ricin to President Trump and the Pentagonhttps://t.co/6Ll0mcrRqq pic.twitter.com/DQLkk5WBu6 CacheValleyDaily (@CVDaily) October 3, 2018 Former Navy Sailor Officials had said on Wednesday that the suspect is a former Navy sailor. The man was taken into custody at 380 N. 200 West in Logan, reported a local agency, The Herald Journal. FBI Salt Lake City field office spokesman Doug Davis told The Journal that hazardous chemicals could be present at the house and warned members of the public to steer clear of the surrounding area. No wider threat to the public safety exists at this time, Davis said. As it is a pending matter, thats all we can say at this time. The identity of the suspect has not been released. BREAKING: Man suspected of mailing ricin to Pres. Trump, Pentagon arrested in Logan: https://t.co/JDj2tQ4Lok pic.twitter.com/UabETczZ1l The Herald Journal (@HJNews) October 3, 2018 Packages Intercepted Two of the packages containing the suspicious substance were intercepted at a facility outside the Pentagon, and a third package addressed to the White House was later found. The package sent to Cruz made it into his office and two people there were rushed to the hospital over fears of exposure, but the FBI field office in Houston said late Tuesday that lab results indicated the substance on that package was not hazardous. Ricin is a poison that is made from castor beans. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ricin can be in the form of a powder, a mist, or a pellet, or it can be dissolved in water or weak acid. A Defense Department spokeswoman said on Wednesday that a preliminary analysis indicated the presence of castor beans but not the poison in a finished form. According to our preliminary analysis, the substance was castor seeds, from which ricin is derived. The FBI is still investigating, Dana White, the spokeswoman, said in a statement sent to The Hill. Swallowing castor seeds can cause injury or worse due to the released ricin, according to the CDC. From NTD.tv Journalist Ted Koppel speaks in a 2009 file photo. In an appearance at the National Press Club, Koppel said news agencies and networks benefit financially from wall-to-wall coverage of President Donald Trump, in Washington, on Oct. 1, 2018. (Photo by Brendan Hoffman/Getty Images) Ted Koppel Slams CNN, MSNBC: You Would be Lost Without Trump Ted Koppel, a longtime journalist, slammed cable news stations for their wall-to-wall coverage of President Donald Trump, also noting how the stations are benefitting financially. During a National Press Club discussion on Oct. 1, Koppel, 78, a former 25-year anchor on ABCs Nightline, referenced how a number of media executives have admitted publicly that Trump is good for ratings, as his supporters and detractors like to tune in to see whats happening. Money, money Donald Trump has been wonderful for the industry, Koppel said. Brian Stelter, a host at CNN who often reports negatively on Trump and conservatives, was also on the panel. That means what? If ratings are up, that means what? Stelter wondered. The ratings are up, it means you cant do without Donald Trump. You would be lost without Donald Trump, Koppel said, though Stelter shook his head and claimed it wasnt true. CNNs ratings would be in the toilet without Donald Trump, Koppel added, prompting laughter from the audience. Stelter said CNN and other networks arent making that much money covering Trump and claimed that it would be okay if CNNs ratings fell 40 percent. Koppel then transitioned to another network to make a point, noting how talking about CNN seemed to be a sensitive subject for Stelter. Lets get away from CNN, Koppel said. Lets go to MSNBC. Is there a moment of the day when they are not focusing on Donald Trump or some intimately related subject? Video: To consternation of @BrianStelter, Ted Koppel contended during 10/1 Kalb Report @PressClubDC: You would be lost without @realDonaldTrump. CNNs ratings would be in the toilet without Trump. Stelter: Ted, you know thats not true. Youre playing for laughs. #NPCLive pic.twitter.com/XGZl9yNzqh Brent Baker (@BrentHBaker) October 3, 2018 Executives Admit Trump is Good for Ratings Trump took a unique path on broadcasting his views during the presidential race, often calling in and appearing across the major networks. Some called it free advertising. MediaQuant, a tracking firm, claimed he received $4.9 billion in free advertising from Nov. 2016 to Nov. 2017, versus $3.2 billion for Hillary Clinton. He bypassed paid advertising to bask in the attention and validation of a 24-hour news cycle, the firm stated. President of CNN Worldwide, Jeff Zucker, admitted during a conference in Jerusalem in March 2017 that Trump was financially prosperous for CNN, reported Deadline. The reality is doing good journalism is also good for the bottom line, Zucker told the audience. Our ratings have never been better. Les Moonves, the recently ousted CBS CEO, said Trump was good for his network in early 2016. It may not be good for America, but its damn good for CBS, he said, according to the Hollywood Reporter. Ive never seen anything like this, and this going to be a very good year for us. Sorry. Its a terrible thing to say, added Moonves, who has been accused of sexual harassment by multiple women. Many major networks have reported mostly negatively about Trump. According to the Media Research Center, a conservative watchdog group, coverage of the White House has been at or around 91 percent negative across ABC, CBS, and NBC since Trump started campaigning in 2016. The Pew Research Center, a moderate survey group, found news coverage on Trumps first 100 days by left-leaning media outlets was only reported positively on 5 percent of the time. From NTD.tv President Donald Trump speaks at a meeting with administration officials on the opioid addiction crisis at the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, on Aug. 8, 2017. (NICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images) The Cure for the Opioid Epidemic Independence, employment go hand in hand Idle hands are the devils playground, and opioids are wreaking havoc on the unemployed underclass of the United States. The good news is that a viable solution is at hand, and it doesnt require throwing more taxpayer money and law enforcement at the problem. Rather, a genuine solutionas opposed to stop-gap fixes that paper over the problemwill require Americans to recognize the scale and sources of the crisis. Many of the most vulnerable and dejected among us have fallen through the cracks and need our help, before they join the list of those who have gone too soon. Historic Proportions As stated by the Presidents Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis, we are witnessing the most devastating drug epidemic in our nations history [with] devastatingly high death rates. That is far from hyperbole. More people now die from opioid overdoses, 115 per day, than from car accidents. Not only is the scale catastrophic, but it is also trending upward. Between 2000 and 2015, deaths due to overdoses quadrupled, according to Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The death tally during those 15 years reached a half-million Americans. Deaths stemming from synthetic opioids such as fentanyl doubled in a single year, between 2015 and 2016, and recent data suggests the epidemic continues to spread throughout the United States, particularly in the Rust Belt. West Virginia, New Hampshire, and Ohio have the highest overdose death rates, but opioids are now so ubiquitous that they are turning up in West Coast shellfish tested for contaminants. An expert panel surveyed by STAT, a life-sciences and medical publication, suggests the rate of deaths could spike to 250 per day, and they dont see any abating in the near future. Why Now? The rise of opioids as a widely prescribed and popular pain medication dates back to 1980, although there was some approved use in the 1970s, as well. Poorly informed producers and physicians latched onto and profited from the burgeoning opioid market, with little understanding of their powerful addictive capacity. From 1991 to 2011, opioid prescriptions nearly tripled, and celebrity physician Dr. Drew Pinsky has described this pattern as irresponsible and shortsighted. Opioids do work as painkillers, perhaps too well. They help many people with chronic pain to lead normal lives. However, since the body builds up a tolerance and needs higher doses, users are particularly vulnerable to physical and psychological dependence. Once addicted, treatment must be long-term, and the chance of relapse is high. Further, synthetic opioids offer vastly higher potency, 80 to 100 times stronger than morphine. Their affordability and availability, through both formal and informal channels, has been a game-changer, since they increase the likelihood of overdose and death. Not Just Anyone Upon close examination, the opioid problem is an employment problem, as noted by Adam Millsap of the Center for the Study of Economic Prosperity and Individual Opportunity at Florida State University. Those struggling economically, particularly the unemployed and poorly educated, are much more likely to succumb to the temptations and risks of opioids. Joblessness and despair go hand-in-hand, Millsap says. He adds that economists have linked depressed labor markets to higher male mortality rates, partially driven by drug and alcohol abuse. Not only does underemployment signal a higher likelihood of addiction and overdose, new researchDefeating Dependency: Work Firstindicates employment combined with treatment is the best ticket out. Scott Wetzler of the Montefore Medical Center, writing for the Washington-based American Enterprise Institute, explains that employment is associated with positive outcomes and unemployment is associated with relapse. Contrary to popular belief, he adds, many substance abusers can engage in work-related activities. Wetzler, who works with substance abusers on public assistance, claims that treatment without either employment or a path to it can have deleterious effects. The artificial insulation from the expectations of day-to-day life withdraws the person from a productive routine, personal responsibilities, and healthy socialization. Work, on the other hand, can enhance self-esteem and pride through accomplishment and create new pro-social peer groups to support abstinence. The person who is struggling then has more people on his side who want to see him succeed and contribute. Prickly Prohibition Celebrating the benefits of employment is easy. Promoting employment and supporting people to make the transition into the labor force require a great deal of care and foresight. One can come at the underlying problem of idle hands and broken social lives from many directions. A common refrain is to advocate a police crackdown on the opioid suppliers and users, but that does little to address why people demand the drugs in the first place. Advertising restrictions, elevated taxes, and outright prohibitions on items widely prescribed for medical reasons are always going to struggle. They exacerbate the presence for black-market and dirty sources, which already abound. That is why Canadians have gone to the extreme measure of providing clean heroin to addicts in treatment. Arthur Rizer of the R Street Institute and Square One Project for justice-reform advocates limited-government restraint. He explains that the United States already suffers from the overcriminalization of human behavior with laws that create traps for the innocent but unwary and yield little or no benefit to public safety. Worse, criminal records seal off opportunity for those returning to society, particularly in the case of employment, which can rest on occupational licensing, a drivers permit, and stable housing. The very people who most need employment, therefore, are the ones who too often find it inaccessible. The Nitty-Gritty The Trump administration has already made positive steps in the right direction, at least in terms of the lower national employment rate and its response to the findings of the Presidents Commission. That includes advocating recovery support such housing and employment services. Any state services, though, must include incentives for abstinence, in Wetzlers words. A substantial minority of substance users can engage in work-related activities and reach financial self-sufficiency and substance-use treatment programs must make work a priority. A soft treatment mandate, such as the threatened loss of some monetary or earning benefit for noncompliance with treatment or abstinence, has been shown to be effective. Wetzler also strongly recommends against allowing substance abusers to classify themselves as having a disability, which would infer that they have a permanent barrier to employment. Prevention, however, is the best cure. There remain an array of options for both opening up the labor market and better preparing people for satisfying, sustainable roles. Policy changes to encourage work and lessen the burdens on employerssuch as lower payroll taxes and fewer medical-insurance and occupational-licensing mandatesmay seem disconnected to the casual observer. However, they offer promise for those who need it. Any opportunity to allow people to get to work and start or join businesses is a winner. For example, entry-level opportunities are crucial for those struggling to find work and establish order in their lives. That is one reason why a lower or no minimum wage would be to a jobseekers benefit. On the flip side, no one wants to hire someone lacking skills and motivation. American education, from the bottom up, needs room to innovate with vocational programs to prepare people for the knowledge economy. Automation and international trade mean soft skills are increasingly more important relative to manual labor, and Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos is well aware of this trend, as an advocate for school choice and voucher programs. The opioid crisis cant be ignored, but that doesnt mean a knee-jerk reaction will help. The availability of synthetic opioids has come during a time of economic upheaval and fallen into the hands of those struggling. The sensible response, which offers a lasting antidote, is to enable opportunities and prepare people to realize them, negating their vulnerability to begin with. Fergus Hodgson is the founder and executive editor of Latin American intelligence publication Antigua Report. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. A closed Toys 'R' Us store is seen near York, Britain on March 21, 2018. (Phil Noble/REUTERS) Toys R Us Lenders Cancel Auction, Plan to Revive Brand The top lenders of Toys R Us have decided to cancel the bankruptcy auction of its brand name and other intellectual property assets and instead plan to revive the Toys R Us and Babies R Us brand names, a court filing on Oct. 1 showed. The bankrupt retailers debtors aim to open a new Toys R Us and Babies R Us branding company that maintains existing global license agreements and can invest and develop new retail shops. The lenders also plan to expand its international presence and further develop its private brands business. The bids were not superior to the plan to revive the brand as it did not offer probable economic recovery to creditors as well as benefits to stakeholders who would maintain the brands under the new independent U.S. business, the court filing showed. Toys R Us filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September last year, hoping to restructure some $5 billion in debt, much of which stemmed from a $6.6 billion leveraged buyout by private equity firms in 2005. But the company changed course in March, saying it would sell its operations in Canada, Asia and Europe, and shut down in the United States. Under the intellectual property auction, the company had planned to sell its assets, including the brand names of Toys R Us, Babies R Us, registry lists, website domains, Geoffrey the Giraffe and other assets. Trump Stumps in Mississippi, Third Rally in Four Days to Galvanize Voter Base SOUTHAVEN, Miss.In his third rally in just four days, President Donald Trump headed to Southaven, Mississippi on Oct. 2, to stump for Republicans Cindy Hyde-Smith, who is seeking a retain her Senate seat in a special election, and Sen. Roger Frederick Wicker, who is up for reelection. Republicans currently hold slim majorities in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Just yesterday, Trump was in Tennessee supporting GOP candidates after signing a three-way trade deal with Canada and Mexico that will replace the NAFTA agreement. The presidents campaign blitz comes amid a week-long supplementary investigation into the sexual misconduct claims against Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said during a Senate floor speech that the vote for Kavanaughs nomination will be held this week, adding that the time for endless delay and obstruction has come to a close. Hot on the campaign trail, Trump aimed to galvanize his supporters in the Magnolia state, as he once again made remarks lambasting the Democrats for their policies, and most recently for their conduct during Kavanaughs committee hearings. They want to get the power they so desperately crave that was taken away from them. They only know how to obstruct and demolish, he told the crowd at the Landers Center. There is nothing Democrats arent willing to do and youre seeing it day by day, and youre seeing it more this week than youve seen it before. Trump said the Democrats are too dangerous to trust with power and urged his supporters to get out and vote Republican. Pretend Im on the ballot, he added. Hyde-Smith will face a tough battle against four other candidates in Mississippis jungle primary, including Democrat candidate Mike Espy. She was appointed by Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant to fill the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Senator Thad Cochran, who retired in April this year. Trump touted Hyde-Smiths 100 percent voting record with his administration. Since arriving in U.S. Senate, Cindy has voted with me 100 percent of the time. Cindy always has my back, which means she always has your back, Trump said in prepared remarks for the rally. She supported our campaign early, and has worked closely with us to protect our wonderful Mississippi farmers. Trump introduced her as a true Mississippi patriot as he invited her up to speak. In her speech, Hyde-Smith mentioned Trumps support for the armed services. He loves the veterans, he loves our military, and he loves our law enforcement as well, she said, before mentioning that two police officers in her hometown were shot and killed this past weekend. She closed by saying that Republicans have a lot of work to do in Washington. Weve got a Supreme Court justice to get confirmed! Im going to ask for your prayers for the Kavanaugh family. If none of the candidates in the special election race receive over 50 percent of the vote, the two with the highest number of votes will advance to another special election. The winner will serve the remaining term of retired Sen. Thad Cochran, which finishes in 2021. Trump said a vote for Espy, one of Hyde-Smiths opponents, would further the Democrats far-left legislation. He described how gridlock and chaos would be the result if the Democrats took control of Congress. A vote for Cindys opponent, Mike Espy, is a vote for Chuck Schumer, Nancy Pelosi, and the legendary low-IQ Maxine Waters. That why Chuck Schumers PAC is funding Mike Espy with a lot of money, he said. When Espy was in Congress, he even sponsored legislation alongside Nancy Pelosi to provide taxpayer-funded healthcare to illegal aliens. Hyde-Smith won numerous awards and honors for her work as a state legislator, where she served for 12 years before being elected Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce, and as a champion of agriculture, according to her biography. Epsy is a former congressman who served on the House Budget Committee. According to his biography, he has spent the last 25 years working in the private and non-profit sectors in homeownership and asset development. Meanwhile, in the other Senate race, Sen. Wicker will face Democrat candidate David Baria. President Donald Trump at his Make America Great Again rally in Wheeling, West Va., on Sept. 29, 2018. (Charlotte Cuthbertson The Epoch Times) Trump to Sit Down With Tech Giants and Those Dissatisfied With Them President Donald Trump will preside over a meeting with leaders of large internet and social-media companies as well as some critics of those companies, according to National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow. The summit should be held in the coming weeks, and Google CEO Sundar Pichai committed to participating when the two met last week, Kudlow said. We had a great meeting, great meeting. I admire him, respect him, very constructive back and forth, Kudlow said of Pichai. He was extremely cooperative. I really enjoyed it, and he committed to come back to the White House. Calling the planned meeting a little conference, Kudlow said the hope is to have Twitter and Facebook also participate. We will have the big internet companies, the big social media companies, search companies, and some who are dissatisfied with those companies, he said. I dont know if weve set a date yet, but I reckon its going to be around the middle of October. Twitters spokesperson declined to comment on the meeting or the companys potential attendance. Google and Facebook didnt respond to requests for comment. Beef With Tech Trump has criticized tech giants such as Google, Facebook, and Twitter over reports that theyre biased against conservatives. In an Aug. 28 tweet, he accused Google of shutting out Republican/Conservative and Fair Media from Google News searches. Very dangerous, he said, in a subsequent tweet. Google & others are suppressing voices of Conservatives and hiding information and news that is good. They are controlling what we can & cannot see. This is a very serious situation-will be addressed! Kudlow previously told reporters that the White House was taking a look at Google, saying the administration would do some investigation and some analysis, without providing further details. Trumps tweets came after PJ Media reported that among the top 100 search results for Trump on Google News, 96 percent of them were from left-leaning media. The Epoch Times conducted a similar experiment on multiple dates. On the afternoon of Oct. 2, less than 5 percent of the 154 articles featured on the first 10 pages of search results for trump came from traditionally conservative-leaning media. Three from Fox News, three from The Wall Street Journal, and one from The American Thinker. The rest were from sources that, to varying degrees, traditionally lean left. Leaked emails showed Google employees discussing methods to tweak the companys search-related functions as a counter to President Donald Trumps 2017 executive order on immigration, also known as the travel ban, The Wall Street Journal reported. Google has denied political bias in search results, saying the employees were only brainstorming, and their ideas werent implemented. On Oct, 1, The Epoch Times reported that YouTube, a subsidiary of Google, omits from its search suggestions the most popular channel focused on Chinese politics, China Uncensored. It appears, though, that this is not because of Youtubes targeting of the channel, but because Youtube associates the word uncensored with search queries of adult content, which are filtered. Google responded to a request for a comment on the issue, but didnt provide one. Twitter Storm Trump criticized Twitter in July, when the company faced allegations of shadow banning, that is suppressing content of users without informing them. Twitter SHADOW BANNING prominent Republicans. Not good. We will look into this discriminatory and illegal practice at once! Many complaints, Trump said in a July 26 tweet. At the time, several Republican congressmen had their Twitter accounts scrapped from the platforms search suggestion function. When questioned by some media in July, Twitter corrected the situation and said some accounts of liberals were affected too. But, despite extensive testing, media uncovered only four affected lawmakersall of them Republicans. Another method of shadow banning is the so-called quality filter, which removes affected Twitter accounts from the latest category of search results. The Epoch Times previously reviewed dozens of Twitter accounts of Trump supporters and opponents. Only the Trump supporters were affected by the filter. But around Aug. 31, just before Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey testified before Congress, Trump supporters began reporting that their accounts no longer appeared to be affected by the filter. Twitter employees have previously told undercover reporters that the platform has unwritten rules and a company culture that at least condones suppressing conservatives. One of the companys engineers, Pranay Singh, was caught saying that most algorithms that were supposed to identify automated bot accounts, in reality, targeted Republicans. Dorsey acknowledged in congressional testimony that algorithms that Twitter uses to filter content may be unintentionally biased. Reuters contributed to this report. Update: The article has been updated to reflect that the name of the Youtube channel China Uncensored likely inadvertently triggers Youtube filtering of adult content. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Nov. 9, 2017. (Thomas Peter - Pool/Getty Images) Trump to Take Hard Line With China After Seeing His Tariff Strategy Wins USMCA deal clears the decks for administration to turn its attention to Beijing WASHINGTONPresident Donald Trump is set to double down on his trade war with China, after closing a major front of the countrys international trade battles. Negotiators agreed late on Sept. 30 to sign a new trade accord, the U.S.MexicoCanada Agreement (USMCA), which will replace the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The historic win, as Trump puts it, clears the decks for the administration to now turn its attention to Beijing. Trump touted his tariffs as a useful negotiation tool, during a press conference to celebrate USMCA on Oct. 1. By the way, without tariffs, we wouldnt be talking about a deal, just for those babies out there that keep talking about tariffs. That includes Congress, he said. According to Trump, U.S. tariffs are clearly working and will eventually force China into making concessions at the negotiating table. We have a lot of catching up to do with China, he said. Were using tariffs very successfully to negotiate. And if were unable to make a fair deal, then well use tariffs. However, he believes its too early to talk to China, since officials there have dragged their feet on agreeing to end the Beijing regimes unfair trade practices. China wants to talk very badly. And I said, Frankly, its too early to talk. Cant talk now, because theyre not ready, Trump said. Theyve been ripping us off for so many years. It doesnt happen that quickly. And if, politically, people force it too quickly, youre not going to make the right deal for our workers and for our country. The USMCA contains a clause that bars any of the members from entering into a separate free-trade deal with China. Entry by any Party into a free-trade agreement with a non-market country, shall allow the other Parties to terminate this Agreement on six-month notice, the agreement text says. The use of the phrase non-market country is a clear reference to China, as, last year, the Commerce Department reaffirmed it was a non-market economy. Canada and China have been talking about a possible free-trade deal, although formal negotiations have been put on hold. According to Canadian media, the USMCA gives the United States unprecedented leverage over its partners relationship with China. In practice, Washington can tear up the trilateral pact if Canada or Mexico strikes a deal with Beijing. The agreement also includes a provision that targets currency manipulation, a trade tactic China has been using for years to boost its exports by undervaluing its currency. Its a great win for the president and a validation of his strategy in the area of international trade, a senior administration official said on Sept. 30, adding that the new deal has become a playbook for future trade deals. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) also welcomed the rewrite of NAFTA. As someone who voted against NAFTA and opposed it for many years, I knew it needed fixing. The president deserves praise for taking large steps to improve it. Tariff Strategy After the midterms, pressure may grow on Trump to end the tariff war, according to Harald Malmgren, economist and senior trade negotiator for U.S. presidents John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, and Gerald Ford. The Chinese side decided to wait until its retaliatory trade measures had a greater effect on various U.S. industrial and agricultural interests on voters in the midterm elections, he said. The trade tension between the United States and China has escalated as Trump announced in September that his administration would proceed with imposing tariffs on an additional $200 billion in Chinese goods. Trump also warned that if China retaliates against the U.S. farmers and other industries, he would impose tariffs on another $267 billion in Chinese imports. Trumps new tariffs came as a surprise to Chinese leaders who called off a planned bilateral meeting in late September. Malmgren believes a long-lasting tariff dispute will pose a threat to supply chains and affect the investment plans of some of the worlds biggest industrial enterprises. For example, Japanese and German automotive producers have, in recent years, been expanding production of vehicles inside the United States not only to supply American buyers but to export to other markets around the world, including China, he explained. Mercedes and BMW, for example, make most of their SUVs in the southern United States, he said, with two-thirds of that production exported to other countries. BMW announced in July that it would move production for some of its SUVs out of the United States as a result of new tariffs. China, however, may soon give in to the United States trade demands and end the tariff wars as its economic troubles grow. Chinese Credit Crunch The start of a trade war between the United States and China comes at a difficult time for the Chinese economy. Domestic economic growth is slowing down and tariffs are expected to put more pressure on growth. There is clearly softening in the Chinese economy, Kurt Campbell, a former assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific Affairs said at an event hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies. There are credit crunches. A lot of available money has gone to the more inefficient state-owned enterprises. A lot of more efficient small and medium-size firms are struggling now and anxious, he said. Nevertheless, China is still determined to wait, he added. They arent yet prepared to take the structural reforms that the Trump administration is seeking in such as abandoning Made in China 2025a strategic plan for taking the lead in several high-tech fieldsmoving away from activities such as forced joint ventures in exchange for market access, and technology and IP theft, he said. Watch Next: Communist Chinas Secret Blueprint to Destroy America Communist China is quietly waging a war against the United States A sign stands near the Carter's Crossroads community in Georgetown County, a road adjacent to Boser Swamp is flooded over, Wednesday, Sept. 26, 2018, in Georgetown County, S.C. This is one of many lowlying areas in this and other nearby farming communities where roads are blocked off days after the rains of Florence have stopped. (Meg Kinnard/AP Photo) US House Approves $1.7 Billion in Disaster Aid for Carolinas WASHINGTONThe House on Oct. 3 overwhelmingly passed legislation that would provide $1.7 billion to help residents of the Carolinas and elsewhere recover from recent natural disasters. The aid was added to legislation to keep Federal Aviation Administration programs running beyond months end. The bill passed 398-23. Lawmakers describe the disaster aid as a down payment. They say billions more will be needed in the months ahead to help communities devastated by Hurricane Florence. Lawmakers are working to extend the FAAs programs for five years while tackling other priorities such as disaster relief. Lawmakers sought to address several concerns of the flying public in the bill. For example, it requires the FAA to set minimum requirements for seat width and legroom on airplanes to ensure that passengers could evacuate a plane quickly in an emergency. Lawmakers were also responding to complaints about cramped seating with the directive. Safety should not take a back seat, especially a shrunken seat, to airline profits, said Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., who sponsored the seat legislation. Another provision would prohibit the involuntary bumping of passengers who have already boarded a plane, a response to the public outrage over a passenger who was dragged off a United Express flight last year when he refused to leave. Lawmakers declined to include in the final bill a provision from Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., to ensure that fees airlines increasingly charge passengers are reasonable and proportional to the costs of the services provided. Airlines raised about $7.4 billion in fees last year, mostly through baggage fees and fees for changing their flight. Markey said the consolidation among major airlines has reduced competition, and that has allowed the airlines to increasingly rely on fees to boost their profits without fear of losing customers. We know that when choice goes down, fees go up. And these sky-high fees bear almost no resemblance to the cost of the services being provided, Markey said. Lawmakers also added to the legislation a bill giving the FBI and Homeland Security officials the authority to track and down drones deemed a credible threat to people or federal facilities. Thats something Attorney General Jeff Sessions had sought. Sessions said drones promise to strengthen the U.S. economically but can also be used to wreak havoc by criminals, terrorists and other bad actors. Privacy advocates criticized the provision. Neema Singh Guliani, a lawyer for the American Civil Liberties Union, said it gives the government new power to spy on Americans without a warrant and to interfere with press freedom by restricting coverage using drones. The Electronic Frontier Foundation and a press-photographers group also oppose the measure. The Senate must also pass the bill before it can be signed into law by the president. Lawmakers are racing to address a range of issues before the end of the fiscal year. If the Senate doesnt pass the bill before then, it will need to pass a short-term measure that would keep FAA programs going. The bill also makes changes to Federal Emergency Management Agency programs by putting more money into such things as rebuilding levees and building seawalls before hurricanes hit so that the damage wont be as severe. This will save lives, save money, and bend the cost curve of disasters, said Rep. Bill Shuster, R-Pa., and chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Lawmakers from South Carolina and North Carolina had urged Speaker Paul Ryan and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to provide some quick relief for the states as officials assess the full scope of the damage that has occurred. At least 47 deaths have been attributed to the storm. The lawmakers described the damage in a letter to Ryan and Pelosi. They said entire communities have been isolated because of flooding that was worse than any previous natural disaster in those states. By Kevin Freking File photo of the Pentagon, as seen from Air Force One, taken on Feb. 12, 2009. The Pentagon says the U.S. is offering to put its cyber-warfare capabilities to use on behalf of its NATO allies. Officials planned to announce it in the coming days as U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis attends a meeting of NATO defense ministers in Brussels on Oct. 3-4. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak, File) US to Offer Cyberwar Capabilities to NATO Allies BRUSSELSActing to counter Russias aggressive use of cyberattacks across Europe and around the world, the U.S. is expected to announce that, if asked, it will use its formidable cyberwarfare capabilities on NATOs behalf, according to a senior U.S. official. The announcement is expected in the coming days as U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis attends a meeting of NATO defense ministers on Oct. 3-4. Katie Wheelbarger, the principal deputy assistant defense secretary for international security affairs, said the U.S. is committing to use offensive and defensive cyber operations for NATO allies, but America will maintain control over its own personnel and capabilities. The decision comes on the heels of the NATO summit in July, when members agreed to allow the alliance to use cyber capabilities that are provided voluntarily by allies to protect networks and respond to cyberattacks. It reflects growing concerns by the U.S. and its allies over Moscows use of cyber operations to influence elections in America and elsewhere. Russia is constantly pushing its cyber and information operations, said Wheelbarger, adding that this is a way for the U.S. to show its continued commitment to NATO. She told reporters traveling to NATO with Mattis that the move is a signal to other nations that NATO is prepared to counter cyberattacks waged against the alliance or its members. Much like Americas nuclear capabilities, the formal declaration of cyber support can help serve as a military deterrent to other nations and adversaries. The U.S. has, for some time, considered cyber as a warfighting domain, much like air, sea, space and ground operations. In recent weeks the Pentagon released a new Department of Defense cybersecurity strategy that maps out a more aggressive use of military cyber capabilities. And it specifically calls out Russia and China for their use of cyberattacks. China, it said, has been persistently stealing data from the public and private sector to gain an economic advantage. And it said Russia has used cyber information operations to influence our population and challenge our diplomatic processes. We will conduct cyberspace operations to collect intelligence and prepare military cyber capabilities to be used in the event of a crisis or conflict, the new strategy states, adding that the U.S. is prepared to use cyberwarfare along with other military weapons against its enemies when needed, including to counter malicious cyber activities targeting the country. The document adds that the Pentagon will work to strengthen the capacity of allies and partners. NATO has moved cautiously on offensive cyber capabilities. At the Warsaw Summit in 2016, allies recognized cyberspace as a warfighting domain. It has said that a computer-based attack on an ally would trigger NATOs commitment to defend its members. And last year the alliance agreed to create a new cyber operations center. But the focus has always been on defending NATO networks and those of its members, not offensive cyberwar. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Tuesday that the defense ministers will have a working session this week to address cyber and other risks, and how allies can cooperate to counter such threats. He did not provide details. In earlier reporting, the Trump administration went on the offensive in cyberspace to deter adversaries from harming U.S. interests, according to a national cybersecurity strategy released by the White House. China, in particular, was called out for engaging in cyber-enabled economic espionage and trillions of dollars of intellectual property theft. The National Cyber Strategy demonstrates my commitment to strengthening Americas cybersecurity capabilities and securing America from cyber threats. It is a call to action for all Americans and our great companies to take the necessary steps to enhance our national cybersecurity, stated U.S. President Donald Trump in the introduction to the document, which he signed on Sept. 20. The national cyber strategy offensive will focus on directly counteringthrough cyber and non-cyber meansmalicious actors, including strategic adversaries, rogue states, territories, and criminal networks, to deter future cyber aggression. Examples include court prosecutions and economic sanctions. Volcano Erupts on Indonesian Island Recovering From Quake and Tsunami UPDATE: Soputan volcano has been erupting with increasing strength all day and into the evening on Oct. 3. Following the first eruption came a second at 10:44 a.m., with an ash column of around 2,000 m (6,560 feet) observed above the peak. A third eruption followed at 11:12 a.m. with an ash column height observed around 2,500 m (8,200 feet) above the summit and at 11:52 p.m., a fourth eruption expelled an ash column observed to be around 5000 m (16,400 feet) above the peak. Soputan is 1,419 m (4,655 feet) above sea level. Erupsi Gunung Soputan, Sulawesi Utara malam ini. Teramati ketinggian kolom abu erupsi pada kisaran 4000-6000 m di atas puncak (5800-7800 m di atas permukaan laut). Aliran Lava Pijar teramati ke arah Timurlaut sejauh lk. 2500 m dari puncak. pic.twitter.com/HVomtzWa0Z MAGMA Indonesia (@id_magma) October 3, 2018 Into the evening, Soputan volcano erupted again, expelling an ash cloud to a height of up to 6000 m (19,700 feet) above the summit. Lava could be seen flowing down the northeast slope of the volcano as far as 2,500 m (8,200 feet) from the summit. One of the volcanos in the north of Sulawesi island in Indonesia has erupted after months of increased activity. The eruption comes just days after a devastating earthquake and tsunami hit the westerns reaches of Sulawesi, killing more than 1,300 people. Soputan volcano erupted at 8:47 a.m. local time on the morning of Oct. 3. The eruption was accompanied by an ash plume with a height of 6,000 meters (19,700 feet), sparking a code Red warning for air traffic in the area. Footage of the ash cloud was captured by locals on their phones. The seismic activity was reported as a continuous tremor, according to Indonesias Multiplatform Application for Geohazard Mitigation and Assessment (MAGMA) program, which is part of its Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation (PVMBG). Reports said that ash emissions were continuing to be expelled from the volcano. Gunung Soputan di Minahasa Tenggara Provinsi Sulawesi Utara meletus pada 3/10/2018 pukul 08.47 WITA. Tinggi kolom abu vulkanik 4.000 meter mengarahnke barat-barat laut. PVMBG mencatat amplitudo maksimum 39 mm dan durasi sekitar 6 menit. Belum ada perlu pengungsian. pic.twitter.com/LWN4N22gcu Sutopo Purwo Nugroho (@Sutopo_PN) October 3, 2018 Local volcanologists with the PVMBG had been warning hours before the eruption that the potential for an eruption at Soputan has increased after they reported signs of greater thermal and seismic activity at the site. As a result, an exclusion zone and a Level III standby warning had been put in place around the volcano just hours before the explosion. Peringatan Dini: Status Gunung Soputan di Sulawesi Utara dinaikkan dari Level II (Waspada) ke Level III (Siaga) terhitung mulai tanggal 3 Oktober 2018 pukul 01:00 WITA. Zona bahaya radius 4 km dengan perluasan sektoral sejauh 6.5 km dari puncak ke Barat-Baratdaya. VONA Yellow. pic.twitter.com/4IJKNNvlE1 MAGMA Indonesia (@id_magma) October 2, 2018 MAGMA tweeted that the four kilometer exclusion zone remained in place, and has been increased to 6.5 kilometers on the west-southwest slopes, in order to avoid the threat of lava and pyroclastic clouds from the stratovolcano. Historically, eruptions at Soputan volcano have been characterized by hot pyroclastic clouds and lava flows on the west-southwest, north and east of the dome. Saat ini G. Soputan berada pada Status Level III (Siaga) dengan rekomendasi, masyarakat agar tidak beraktivitas dalam radius 4 km dari puncak dan area perluasan sektoral ke arah Barat-Baratdaya sejauh 6,5 km, untuk menghindari potensi ancaman guguran lava maupun awan panas. MAGMA Indonesia (@id_magma) October 3, 2018 Locals have been recommended to wear masks cover the nose and mouth to reduce respiratory agitation from the ash. No evacuation has been ordered at this time. While the population surrounding Soputan was not impacted by the tsunami that killed more than 1,300 people in the islands west, the whole area has been experiencing significant seismic activity and tremors. Soputan volcano is about 600 km northeast of Palu and surrounding tsunami-struck areas where rescue operations continue in the hopes of finding survivors. Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, spokesman of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, said late on Oct. 2 that rescuers had reached all four of the islands districts that were badly affected by the Sept. 28 earthquake and tsunami. Together, the districts have a population of 1.4 million. We hope the death toll does not rise, he said. Were continuing rescue operations but right now the team is racing against time. He gave few details of the conditions rescuers had found, saying they were similar to those in Palu, where the quake brought down hotels, shopping malls, and countless houses, while tsunami waves as high as six meters (20 feet) scoured its beachfront shortly afterwards. Reuters contributed to this article. Watch Next: Why did the US Leave the UN Human Rights Council We are withdrawing from the UN Human Rights Council, an organization that is not worthy of its name. Fu Xinge (right) with his wife (left) and daughter Eva (center) in Shijiazhuang, China in 2013. (Photo provided by Eva Fu) Chinese Real Estate Company Executive Arrested for His Faith; Daughter in US Seeks Release An executive of a Chinese real-estate company, who is also a Falun Gong practitioner, was arrested and detained in China on Sept. 19 because of his faith, according to Minghui.org, a U.S.-based website that serves as a clearinghouse on the persecution of Falun Gong in China. The family of Fu Xinge, 50, vice president of the Zhongjiaxin Real Estate Development Co., learned about the arrest on Sept. 24, days after he went missing. His daughter, Eva, who lives in the United States, is worried and hopes the U.S. government can help. Falun Gong, a peaceful traditional Chinese meditation practice based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, tolerance, has been brutally persecuted by the Chinese Communist Party since 1999. Fus wife and daughter noticed his disappearance when he stopped taking their callsunusual because it was their only way of communicating with him. While Fu lives in Shijiazhuang, capital of Chinas Hebei Province, his wife and daughter, who are also Falun Gong practitioners, moved to the Seattle area in 2013. Eva Fu came to the United States as a college student, and she and her mother have applied for asylum. On Sept. 24, Eva and her mother found a notice posted on Minghui.org on Sept. 19 about the arrest. The following day, a second notice from Minghui.org reported that Fu and other detainees were being held in a secret base in Luquan County, Hebei Province. A third notice posted on Sept. 26 from Minghui.org said that officers from the Ministry of State Security, together with local police, arrested Fu along with two other Falun Gong practitionersGuo Xueping, the CEO of the same company that Fu works for, and Duan Haibo, CEO of Jinchao Construction LLC at their workplaces in Shijiazhuang. The police confiscated a printer, computers, and Falun Gong books during the arrest. According to Eva, her father suspected that he was being monitored by police before he was arrested. He told his family that over the summer, police came knocking on his door. He also believed that his phone was being tapped. Eva and her mother also were victims of the persecution against Falun Gong when they lived in China. She told Friends of Falun Gonga U.S.-based nonprofit organization that supports the freedom of belief of Falun Gong practitioners worldwideabout her experience of being monitored by authorities. One time, my mom had a box in the front basket of her bike, and that man kept following my mom for quite a while to ask what was in the box, she recalls. He was assigned to follow us. Given past documented cases of imprisoned Falun Gong practitioners being tortured, brainwashed, and blood testedfor their potential use as unwilling organ donorsFu and the other detainees may face a dangerous fate. What happened to my father could happen to anyone, anytime, in China, and so many more practitioners are in this situation, Eva told Friends of Falun Gong. On Minghui, there are so many accounts of persecution coming in every day. I hope the U.S. government can do something to stop this persecution and urge the Chinese government to stop the atrocities. Freedom of speech and freedom of belief are born to everyone on this earth and shouldnt be taken away from anyone. Since Americans value this, its time to stand up and stand by these individuals and bring their rights back to them. She told The Epoch Times that shes speaking with members of Congress to raise awareness about her fathers case and to ask for their help. Minghui.org is dedicated to reporting about the Falun Gong community worldwide. A major part of Minghuis work is to track the disappearances and deaths of Falun Gong practitioners in China. There have been several U.S. House resolutions condemning the Chinese regimes persecution of Falun Gong. The most recent, House Resolution 343, addresses the state-sanctioned harvesting of organs from living Falun Gong practitioners in Chinese custody. Editors Note: Eva Fu is a former intern for the English language edition of The Epoch Times. Why Are Brennan, Comey, and Rogers Transcripts Being Withheld? Is the inspector general's ongoing FISA investigation a factor in withholding testimonies of top Obama officials? News Analysis The House Intelligence Committee voted Sept. 28 to release a number of transcripts taken from interviews during its investigation of 2016 election interference by Russia. The move by the committee was previously disclosed in a Sept. 16 interview by committee Chairman Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) on the Fox Business show, Sunday Morning Futures with Maria Bartiromo. A significant number of man-hours and effort went into the preparation of the committees reportincluding the review of 7,292 pages of testimony. As part of the investigation, the House committee noted that it interviewed 73 individuals, resulting in 55 transcribed interviews. The report also indicated that seven witnesses had invoked their Fifth Amendment protections against self-incrimination. At this point, no firm date has been set for a release of the transcripts, although the wait isnt expected to be lengthy. Transcripts approved for release will now go to Dan Coats at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence for a declassification review. The full list of interviews to be released, accompanied by the actual date of the interview, can be found here. The first interviews took place in June 2017. Interestingly, the first person to be interviewed was newly installed Director of National Intelligence Coats on June 22, 2017. Its likely Coats was interviewed first as a matter of housekeeping. Coats would work closely with Adm. Mike Rogers at the National Security Agency until Rogers retired in May. The second person to be interviewed was then-President Barack Obamas deputy assistant secretary of defense, Evelyn Farkas, on June 26, 2017. There may be a very good reason for this. On March 2, 2017, Farkas went on MSNBC. During the interview, Farkas detailed how the Obama administration gathered and disseminated intelligence on the Trump team: I was urging my former colleagues and, frankly speaking, the people on the Hill Get as much information as you can. Get as much intelligence as you can before President Obama leaves the administration. The Trump folks, if they found out how we knew what we knew about the Trump staffs dealing with Russians, that they would try to compromise those sources and methods, meaning we would no longer have access to that intelligence. Thats why you have the leaking. Note that Farkas said how we knew not what we knew. A crucial distinction. Hillary Clintons campaign manager, John Podesta, was interviewed the following day, on June 27, 2017. He would be interviewed a second time on Dec. 4, 2017. Other notable names on the interview list include John Carlin, assistant attorney general and former head of the Department of Justice (DOJ)s National Security DivisionJuly 27, 2017 James Clapper, former director of national intelligenceJuly 17, 2017 Marc Elias, partner at the law firm Perkins Coie and head of its Political Law practiceDec. 13, 2017 Mike Gaeta, head of the FBIs Eurasian organized crime unitDec. 20, 2017 David Kramer, senior director for human rights and human freedom at the McCain InstituteDec. 19, 2017, and Jan. 10, 2018 Loretta Lynch, former attorney generalOct. 20, 2017 Andrew McCabe, former deputy FBI directorDec. 19, 2017 Susan Rice, former national security advisor to ObamaSept. 6, 2017 Sally Yates, former deputy attorney generalNov. 3, 2017 Also included are interviews with members of the Trump team, including Attorney General Jeff Sessions, former campaign chairman and senior adviser Steve Bannon, and senior adviser Jared Kushner. Donald Trump Jr. is also included on the list. There are two elements that make this interview list notable. The first is the inclusion of interviews from those higher up the political echelonsuch as Clapper, Rice, Yates, and Lynch. The second element of interest is the names missing due to internal decisions to withhold their transcripts. Two of the withheld transcripts relate to two congresspeople: Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Calif.) and Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.). Rep. Mike Conaway (R-Texas) said these interviews were being withheld as a professional courtesy extended to members of Congress who participated in the interviews with the understanding they would be confidential. Both Wasserman Schultz and Rohrabacher have provided indications they may agree to the release of their transcripts. The remaining transcripts being withheld are those from closed hearings with former CIA Director John Brennan, former FBI Director James Comey, and former NSA Director Mike Rogers. The final withheld transcript relates to the committees approval of their final report. Another interesting item of note is that neither special counsel Robert Mueller nor any members of his team have seen or reviewed any of the interviews. Conaway noted: Hell ask for it if he wants to. Hes a big boy. Important to note in this process is the fact that DNI Coats had yet to review any of the transcripts for declassification prior to the decision to withhold transcripts for Comey, Brennan, and Rogers. The transcripts of Comey, Brennan, and Rogers, originating from closed hearings, may inherently contain some classified information. But the decision to withhold didnt pertain to any decision from Coats regarding declassification issues. Reasons other than issues of declassification may exist for the withholding of those three rather significant transcripts. One possible explanation might reside with the ongoing investigations by DOJ Inspector General Michael Horowitz and U.S. attorney John Huberwho was tasked by Sessions to investigate potential abuse of power by the FBI and DOJ. Brennan and Comey were both central figures in the surveillance of the Trump campaign, including the FISA warrant on Carter Page and the ongoing promotion of the Russia-Trump collusion narrative. Brennan, who, in an August interview with MSNBCs Rachel Maddow, appeared to admit to reverse surveillance targeting, played a key role in instigating the FBIs counterintelligence investigation. Brennan also appeared to be coordinating his efforts with UK Intelligence on a less-than-official basis, including a meeting with then-head of Britains GCHQ, Robert Hannigan, in the summer of 2016. Nunes has said in multiple interviews that there was no official intelligence that was used to start this investigation there was no intelligence that passed through the Five Eyes channels to our government. Despite the lack of any official intelligence, Brennan specifically stated in a May 23, 2017, congressional testimony that intelligence he had in his possession served as the basis for the FBI investigation. He continued: It was well beyond my mandate as director of CIA to follow on any of those leads that involved U.S. persons. But I made sure that anything that was involving U.S. persons, including anything involving the individuals involved in the Trump campaign, was shared with the bureau. Brennans role in events preceding the 2016 presidential election is deserving of further investigation. The inclusion of Rogers makes matters even more intriguing. Rogers, while director of the NSA, was personally responsible for uncovering an unprecedented level of FISA abuse that would be later documented in a 99-page April 26, 2017, unsealed FISA court ruling. Rogers also dissented with the FBI and CIA regarding the intelligence community assessment, Assessing Russian Activities and Intentions in Recent U.S. Elections. While the FBI and CIA expressed high confidence in the report. Rogers didnt agree, expressing only moderate confidence in the report. He would later articulate his view during congressional testimony: I wouldnt call it a discrepancy. Id call it an honest difference of opinion between three different organizations and in the end, I made that call. It didnt have the same level of sourcing and the same level of multiple sources. Rogerss testimony may well provide additional implication of Brennan and Comey. Somewhat surprising is the pending release of Andrew McCabes interview transcript given the withholding of Brennans and Comeys. The discrepancy may be related to the fact that information on McCabe has already been made public through the inspector generals report on McCabeA Report of Investigation of Certain Allegations Relating to Former Deputy FBI Director Andrew McCabe. Huber has been publicly quiet since his appointment by Sessions. People easily forget that Huber and his hand-picked team of prosecutors have been in place since at least November 2017, working with IG Horowitz. As Sessions noted, the IG has almost 500 employees, most of which are lawyers and prosecutorsand they are looking at the FISA process. Inspectors general have no prosecutorial power. But they can refer people for prosecution. Which is precisely why Huber and his team are in place. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. BRIDGEPORT This week American Airlines announced weekly, non-stop commercial passenger service from Tweed New Haven Airport to the plane operators second-largest hub, Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina. The next 18 months will help determine if Bridgeport-owned, Stratford-based Igor Sikorsky Memorial Airport could ever celebrate similar aeronautic big news. The city is drafting a new master plan for Sikorsky the first since the mid-1990s. Whether or not we bring back scheduled commercial service, thats something that definitely would be looked at, said Michelle Muoio, who just celebrated her one year anniversary as airport manager. Its a very comprehensive study that looks at the physical, business opportunities and the financial, with public involvement (from) tenants and (the) local community. The master planning process, funded largely by the Federal Aviation Administration, also marks a change in how Mayor Joe Ganims two-and-a-half year old administration has approached Sikorsky. While campaigning in 2015, Ganim floated the idea of a selling Sikorsky and getting it off of financially challenged Bridgeports books. The airport has a $500,000 operating deficit. As of now were moving forward with the assumption the city will continue to own and operate the airport, said Dan Roach, a mayoral aide. Roach had been working over the last few years to get the Connecticut Airport Authority, which operates several state-owned airports, including Bradley International in Windsor Locks, to buy Sikorsky. We did run into some issues with identifying funds that the state would use to compensate us for the airport, Roach said. He said a deal with the state is not off the table but acknowledged the Ganim administration is more open to keeping Sikorsky: Theres some potential there that we werent fully aware of a couple years ago. Specifically, Roach said, Ive been approached by two different groups in the aviation business expressing interest in a long-term lease. He and Muoio declined to provide additional details. But, Muoio emphasized, Nobody is going to build new airports any time soon, so just in general airports are an asset. While it has been decades since Sikorsky hosted commercial passenger service, and, in fact, the old passenger terminal was torn down, the airport is frequently used for corporate and charter flights. The short runways are still a hurdle when it comes to luring back commercial passenger airlines. But Muoio and Roach said the master plan will determine whether technological advances open up Sikorsky to new possibilities. Thats a big piece of the study -- forecast and demand analysis, Muoio said. What type of operators are out there, who is interested and compare that with what you can actually support at the airport. Air traffic control The master plan effort also includes an updated study of noise and noise management at Sikorsky. That is important given the topic of increased airplane traffic has not, historically, been popular with some residents of the nearby Lordship section of Stratford. When youre talking about technology, a big word is quieter, Roach said. If were looking to move forward with more operations out of the airport, its not going to mean its a noisier airport. The FAA recently provided $450,000 for the master plan and $170,435 for the noise study. Bridgeport is chipping in $53,632, and the airport $51,822 out of its budget. Roach admitted the next challenge will be funding any recommended improvements to runways or other infrastructure: We are trying to avoid using any city money and are in the process of attempting to acquire government and other funds. Sikorsky could have a friend in gubernatorial candidate Ned Lamont. The Democrat, in response to Tuesdays news about American Airlines and Tweed, Tweeted: Rebuilding and expanding ... transportation infrastructure will be a top priority in my administration. Airports, roads, and rail put the connect in Connecticut, attracting jobs and expanding opportunities for all. David Faile, president of the Friends of Sikorsky Airport, hopes to be involved in the master plan. He agreed with the premise that aeronautic advancements have compensated for the facilitys shortcomings: The corporate aircraft flying in and out are bigger than weve ever had, quieter than weve ever had and use less runway. But, Faile said, commercial passenger flights will need a terminal and he is not sure where that would be rebuilt: As soon as you have an airline service you have the Transportation Security Administration and all the security requirements. Stratford Mayor Laura Hoydick, who took office in December, has a seat on the Sikorsky Airport Commission mainly dominated by members from Bridgeport. She noted how Stratford receives property taxes from development at the facility and the airports proximity to the vacant army engine plant next door that her town hopes to revitalize. The airport is an asset to the region and state, in my opinion, Hoydick said. But, she added, when it comes to changes at the airport, We would have to have all the facts and presentations so the community at large can be involved in the discussion. Muoio said a goal of the master planning process is ensuring how we can be as best a neighbor as we possibly can be. Traffic at some of the states general aviation airports including Danbury and Sikorsky has fallen at least 30 percent during the last decade as fewer planes take off or come in for a landing. Industry officials attribute the decline, which picked up after the 2008 recession, to the rising costs of owning a plane and obtaining a pilots license. Most general aviation airports in the country have experienced a downturn, said Kevin Dillon, executive director of the Connecticut Airport Authority. Since the recession people havent had the discretionary dollars to purchase an airplane or to pay for the time thats needed to get your license. As airports are seeing flight declines ranging from 30 to more than 50 percent, they are looking at ways to specialize their air fields and attract more business. Unlike commercial airports that offered scheduled flights, general aviation airports dont have regularly scheduled passenger service and cater to local businesses and aviation enthusiasts. While Danbury Municipal Airport was the busiest general aviation airport in the state last year and one of the busiest in New England with 49,083 operations in 2017, thats down from 73,609 in 2007. Operations are defined as the number of planes leaving and arriving at an airport, with each arrival and departure counting as a separate operation. Both Tweed New Haven International Airport, which does carry commercial services, and Hartford-Brainard Airport have seen operations decline by more than 50 percent during the same time period. Commercial airports have also seen a decline, in part, Dillon said, because they also provide services to the general aviation community and because commercial operators have been moving to larger aircraft that carry more passengers. While operations are down at Bradley International Airport, for example, the number of passengers has increased over the past five years. Sky-high cost While fewer flights overhead might be comforting news to neighbors near the airports, its a growing concern of industry and government officials. Several airports in the state, including Sikorsky Memorial Airport and the Connecticut Airport Authority, which operates five airports including Waterbury-Oxford, had annual deficits in the millions of dollars. One of the problems is that the cost of aviation fuel has gone up exponentially in the past decade, said Wayne Toher, president of Reliant Air, a charter service based at Danbury Municipal Airport. It used to cost not much more than car gas at one time and there are a lot more regulations than ever before. The price of aviation gasoline has nearly doubled during the past decade alone. The fuel hovered around $2.50 per gallon in 2007 while prices are now about $5.35 per gallon, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Aviation gas cost as little as $1 per gallon in the 1990s. The amount of flying time required to obtain a pilots license more than 60 hours is also a consuming effort, said Michael Safranek, assistant administrator of Danburys city-owned airport. Aircrafts are evolving and people have to learn a lot more than they used to, he said. If someone wants to get their private pilots license, it can cost more than $20,000, and thats a big endeavor financially. Of course, planes that used to cost $20,000 about 30 years ago now cost more than $200,000. Safranek said the Danbury airport saw the most operations in excess of 130,000 annually during the 1970s and 1980s. More Information See More Collapse Upgrades At Waterbury-Oxford Airport, officials recently completed a $32 million upgrade to the runway and several businesses at the field have also invested in their facilities with new hangers and other amenities. At Waterbury-Oxford we are targeting corporate growth, due in part to its proximity to New York, Dillon said. And while city officials in Bridgeport considered selling Sikorsky, they now intend to keep the airport, which runs an annual deficit of about $500,000. The CAA runs an annual deficit of around $4 million. The city is drafting a new master plan for Sikorsky. Whether or not we bring back scheduled commercial service, thats something that definitely would be looked at, said Michelle Muoio, who just celebrated her one-year anniversary as airport manager. David Faile, who chairs Friends of Sikorsky Airport (FOSA), said that things arent quite as bleak as they might seem. I know that the traffic counts have been down and there was a recession in 2008 and some planes left the airport, he said. Its still a very, very viable business tool and its increasing like mad for the business community. Faile added there arent as many young pilots learning to fly as in years past. FOSA promotes the airport as an economic engine for the region. Toher said their charter services in Danbury have been growing but they turn down charter requests due to not having an available flight crew. The industry is experiencing a dearth of qualified pilots. Our operations are up but we could do more if we could find more pilots, he said. Expansion potential Linda Silvestri, who owns two businesses at the airport, including Danbury Aviation, said a longer runway would attract more business from airports such as Westchester County Airport. A plane that could cost as much as $9,000 a month to store at the Westchester airport would cost about $5,000 in Danbury, Safranek said. During the past decade, Silvestri said the only major airport investment by the city she recalls was the purchase of a new snow plow truck, and for tree removal on adjacent parcels to make the aircraft approaches safer. Oxford, which has been attracting more business flights, has a a runway thats nearly 6,000 feet, while Danburys longest is about 4,500 feet. Mayor Mark Boughton agrees that a longer runway would make the airport more popular, but its not something he said is in the cards right now. But unlike most airports, Danbury is self-sufficient and actually provides a surplus to the city of around $100,000 a year. Money that some local business owners say could be reinvested into the facility. When deciding about whether to renovate schools or the citys sewage treatment plant, it really comes down to priorities, Boughton said. I agree that a longer runway would increase the viability of the airport, but its also a very expensive and controversial project. Some at the airport note that recommendations from an airport task force convened five years ago by Boughton have yet to be followed up. Those recommendations included making more city-owned property at the airport available for lease, which would provide more revenue for city coffers and more regional marketing of the airport. Considering the number of jobs available in aviation, the airport also could be used to train residents for new careers, said James Cordes, chairman for the task force. Its not just about training pilots, but also about engineering and aircraft mechanics, he said. Many of the kids entering these professions can come out of school making more than $60,000 a year. dperrefort@newstimes.com Update: According to court documents, the case against Lawrence Hrablook was dismissed. NORWALK A 68-year-old Idaho man allegedly violated a restraining order 10 times. Police said Lawrence Hrablook, of Idaho, called, emailed and sent text messages to a victim over a one-month span, from April 19 to May 25. He allegedly created a fake Facebook account to contact the victim. Officers used internet and phone records to help with an investigation, police said. Norwalk officers picked up Hrablook Tuesday morning when he was at the Stamford courthouse for unrelated crimes. Norwalk police could not provide further details about his Stamford court appearance. Hrablook was charged with 10 counts of violating a restraining order. He was held on $75,000 bond and is due in court Oct. 3 for the Norwalk charges. NORWALK - The Norwalk Common Councils Public Works Committee hit pause Tuesday evening on Eversource Energys plan to relocate two high-voltage power lines beneath the Visitors Docks at Veterans Memorial Park. At issue for the committee and ultimately the full council is whether to authorize Mayor Harry Rilling to write the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, indicating that the city has no objection to Eversource applying to the corps for a permit to perform the work. The utility company must apply for the permit before the end of the year, according to city officials. After hearing from the public and the Norwalk Harbor Management Commission, however, the committee tabled action on the authorization letter pending further information about the cable plan. We will keep the various commissions in the loop, Councilman John Igneri, chairman of the committee, said afterward. We will get information back to you. John Romano, harbor commission vice chairman, thanked the committee for tabling the matter. He described the process as rushed. Theyre trying to push it through, Romano told Hearst Connecticut Media. We have dealt with Eversource for a real long time. Leaving the meeting in July, they were supposed to get stuff to us in a timely manner and never did and they still havent. Theyve pushed off all these meetings and all this stuff, and all of a sudden, theyre having this hearing to have papers signed without coming through us. Eversource Energy representatives werent present at Tuesday evenings meeting at City Hall. Earlier, the utility company issued the following statement: We continue to work cooperatively with the city to identify the best route for the required relocation of the existing transmission lines, Eversource spokesman Frank Poirot said. After a route is finalized, we will apply for the required approvals and permits. Earlier in the evening, Lisa Burns, principal engineer in the city Department of Public Works, updated the public on Eversources revised plan during a joint meeting of the councils Public Works and Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs committees. The two 115-kilovolt cables provide electricity to the Third Taxing District and southwestern Connecticut. Eversource must remove them from the Walk Bridge by 2020 as part of the Connecticut Department of Transportations replacement of the bridge, Burns said. She walked the public and elected officials through the evolution of Eversources cable relocation plan, from consideration of seven, largely above-ground routes in July 2017 to the current underground plan. The rerouted lines would go below ground at the Norwalk Police Department headquarters parking lot at 1 Monroe St., run below Elizabeth Street, go under the harbor from 90 Water St. and emerge at the north end of the visitors docks parking lot. Under the harbor, the cables would be placed 8 feet below the bottom of the pilings of the newly built visitors docks at the park, according to Burns. Its a real deep dive right now, Burns said. They went as far as they could go before they hit rock. But the location, not the depth, remains the issue for the harbor commission. We have objections to anything going in, or around or underneath those pilings, said John T. Pinto chairman of the commissions Plan Review Committee. Because if you talk about value, devaluing city property, weve just devalued our city property. Running the electric cables through the visitors docks, according to Pinto, would limit the commission on future design and building in that area. Burns displayed a map showing other utility lines beneath the riverbed, some near the visitors docks. Rejecting Eversources underground plan would force the company to build above ground with large utility poles on either side of the river, she said. Cable route aside, representatives of various organizations urged elected officials Tuesday evening to support some sort of underground option. Norwalk Housing Authority Executive Director Adam Bovilsky said placing power lines underground is critical to South Norwalk. The authority is proceeding with a $150 million reconstruction of Washington Village, a public housing complex off Water Street, with low-income, affordable and market-rate apartments. If those market-rate units cant be rented at a high rate, then that makes the entire project less sustainable, Bovilsky said. And I think if you look at these pictures of what the high-voltage power lines look like (aboveground), I think its pretty clear they can be quite an eyesore and may bring down the value of the apartments. BAGHDAD - Iraqis named a president and prime minister designate on Tuesday, capping five months of halting negotiations that played out amid widening popular unrest and an intensifying rivalry between the United States and Iran for influence over Iraq's leadership. Within an hour of Iraq's parliament electing veteran Kurdish politician Barham Salih as president, he announced he had asked former oil minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi with forming the next government. The selection of both men showed how the sectarian loyalties within Iraq's Kurdish, Sunni Arab and Shiite Arab communities that prevailed since the U.S. invasion in 2003 are now breaking down, giving way to more pragmatic coalitions that cut across sectarian lines. Salih, 58, was chosen as president, a largely ceremonial post, after trouncing his Kurdish rival by a vote of 219 to 22, signaling the overwhelming support among the legislature's vast Arab majority for Salih's brand of conciliatory politics. Abdul-Mahdi, 76, a Shiite with no recent party affiliation, will hold the vast majority of executive power, and his selection represents a compromise by the top finishers in May's election, Iraqi and American officials said. But the vote left no clear winner in the ongoing tussle between Iran and the United States to place their allies in Iraq's key political posts as Washington seeks to isolate Tehran economically and politically. Abdul-Mahdi was backed by a faction of Shiite politicians led by populist cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, a critic of both the United States and Iran, whose ticket won the most seats in May's election. Sadr's pick was also supported by Kurdish and Sunni lawmakers and approved by Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, according to an Iraqi lawmaker involved in the negotiations and a Western official. A pro-Iran bloc of lawmakers, lead by militia commander Hadi al-Amiri and former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, tried to block Abdul-Mahdi's nomination but eventually dropped their opposition once they realized they did not have enough seats for a parliamentary majority that would give them the right to name their own candidate. For letting Abdul-Mahdi's nomination proceed, the pro-Iran bloc may be rewarded with key ministerial posts like oil, interior and defense. "We are encouraged by the historic steps taken tonight," said a senior U.S. official. "President Salih and prime minister designate Abdul-Mahdi are experienced leaders and well respected in Iraq and around the world." Abdul-Mahdi will have 30 days to nominate a cabinet for parliamentary approval, according to Iraq's constitution. "Abdul-Mahdi is a compromise candidate," said lawmaker Yousif al-Kilabi, an ally of outgoing Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, a favorite of U.S. officials. "He will run Iraq's foreign policy in a balanced fashion, putting Iraq's interests first ... he shares the same ideology as Abadi and Sadr." The new government will take over a country facing enormous challenges following a war against the Islamic State that caused billions of dollars in damage, left millions of people displaced and put a massive strain on Iraq's oil-dependent economy. The government will also have to immediately address a persistent protest movement in Iraq's Shiite heartland over poor public services, government corruption and frustrations with a political system that has favored narrow constituencies over basic governance. The protests helped shake up the traditional sectarian alliances that had previously seen Shiites, Sunnis and Kurds fight it out for shares of state power. This year, lawmakers crossed sectarian lines to forge blocs that claimed a nationalist mantle. But the shifting political scene has also revealed fresh divisions within Iraq's Kurdish autonomous region which came into focus during Tuesday's election of the president. Salih, who has previously served as deputy prime minister of Iraq and prime minister of the autonomous Kurdish Regional Government, is seen as a moderate Kurdish figure who favors maintaining strong relations with both the United States and Iran while promoting Kurdish interests through cooperation with Iraq's central government rather than confrontation. The urbane, British educated politician is a favorite with Western diplomats and American military generals and founded the American University of Iraq Sulaimani in 2007. Salih could improve relations between Iraq's Kurds and the central government in Baghdad after a Kurdish bid for independence last year threatened armed conflict. But his ascension to the presidency has deepened growing acrimony within the KRG's dynastic politics. According to a power-sharing agreement put in place following the United States invasion, Kurds have traditionally nominated a single figure for the post of president from the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan - one of two dominant parties in the autonomous north of Iraq. This year, amid competing visions for the future of the KRG, the Kurds failed to agree on a candidate, and the Kurdish Democratic Party put forth Fouad Hussein, the former chief of staff to powerful party leader Masoud Barzani. Salih won the first round of voting by a margin of 165 to 89 - drawing condemnation from Barzani and provoking Hussein to drop out of the race. But the vote went ahead anyway, and lawmakers voted according to their preference in the absence of instructions from party leadership, marking a major departure from previous ballots in parliament. Jalal Talabani, who held the position for two terms, used the office to mediate between Iraq's central government and Kurdistan, while emerging as one of Iraq's most important statesman. His successor, Fuad Masum, failed to match Talabani's influence and turned the office into a "trivial position," said Renad Mansour, an expert on Iraqi and Kurdish politics with Chatham House. Talabani's death last year accelerated the worsening relations between Kurdish parties - and the Kurdish region's ties with Iraq's central government. Many Kurds and Iraqis see Salih as a politician in Talabani's mold, with the credibility to improve relations with Baghdad. But he is unlikely to quickly repair fraying ties in the Kurdish region. "The conflict over the presidency reveals the lack of trust between the two parties," Mansour said of the PUK and KDP. The winner of the competition for supremacy between the two parties within the autonomous Kurdish region remains unclear, and Tuesday's vote could have far reaching consequences for the intra-Kurdish power struggle. On Sunday, Kurds voted for the Kurdish region's parliament but results have not yet been released amid accusations of fraud and irregularities. WILTON Board of Finance member Richard Creeth will soon trade in his spreadsheets for some traveling shoes. Creeth announced at the boards meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 25, that he will be stepping down in the near future. I am sorry to be leaving the board and will miss working with my colleagues. I have always tried to bring a balanced, common sense approach to the board. The challenge on the Board of Finance is to recommend a budget that adequately funds expenditures that the town needs while minimizing tax increases. This is always tricky, Creeth said. Creeth said the resignation is due, in part, to ambitious plans he and his wife have to travel the country and visit their children next year. Most of you know that I have three sons. What you may not know is each son is in a different state, and not one of those states is Connecticut, said Creeth with a laugh. Since his plans will prevent him from attending important town budget meetings in February and March, Creeth said he will instead vacate his position once a suitable replacement has been found. The Democratic Town Committee is actively working to find a replacement for Creeth, though Paul Burnham, the acting chair of the nomination subcommittee, was unable to provide a timetable. Once a recommendation is made, the selection will be brought before the Board of Finance for a vote. The board will have 30 days to fill the vacancy once the seat opens. In the event a determination isnt reached in that time, the Board of Selectmen will be tasked with choosing a new member. Since Creeth is a Democrat, his replacement will also come from the same party. The interim board member will fill Creeths seat until the next general election in November 2019. I really enjoyed working with him (Creeth), and I hope the DTC finds someone with similar capabilities to replace him, because, as the old, tired cliche goes, he leaves very big shoes to fill, said Jeff Rutishauser, the chairman of the board. Creeth was re-elected to his finance post in November after serving four years. While on the board, Creeth introduced the upside-down mill rate analysis model that made it easier for the board to the impact of expenditures on the towns tax rates. This allows us to do a better job of providing guidance to the boards of Selectmen and Education by modeling the impact on property tax increases at different expenditure levels. Many people think that 2 percent increase in expenditures results in a 2 percent tax increase, but there are many other factors such as the ending General Fund balance, that impact the tax change. The upside-down mill rate model allows to estimate all of these factors and provide guidance to the two boards, Creeth said. Previously, Creeth served on the Board of Selectmen for eight years after his first election in 2003. During his time on the board, Creeth, most notably, crusaded for energy efficiency in town and played a pivotal role in the creation of the towns Energy Commission a group he would later come to chair. EDWARDSVILLE - Kolten Ackerman says his senior year has been busy and challenge. He can add rewarding. Ackerman was chosen as the Edwardsville High School Senior of the Month for September by the Class of 2019 officers. The son of Mike and Kim Ackerman, Kolten says his favorite subject is physics and he is involved in a number of activities. He stays busy with Science Olympiad, National Honor Society, the Young Republicans, WYSE academic competition, the National Junior Science and Humanities Symposium and is a member of the math, English and Spanish honor societies. While undecided on where he will go to college, Ackerman said he plans to major in electrical engineering. He would like to explore the possibility of owning his own business after being an engineer. For now, however, Ackerman is staying busy. My senior year has definitely been the busiest and most challenging year of high school, he wrote. I am enrolled in four advance-placement classes and on top of that I am having to apply to numerous colleges and universities. However, I am glad that I am pushing myself and doing as much as I can this year. Ackerman said the teachers and curriculum at EHS allow him to push himself. The thing I like the most about EHS are all of the spectacular classes and teachers that it has to offer, he wrote. I would not be where I am today without the incredible teachers at EHS. JERSEYVILLE Felony charges filed Oct. 1 by the Jersey County States Attorneys Office include: Joseph W. Reineke, 47, of the 4600 block of Seiler Road, Dorsey, was charged with driving while drivers license is revoked, a Class 4 felony, after being stopped on West Main in Grafton Sept. 24. According to court records he had multiple previous related traffic convictions. No bail was set. Matthew A. Stover, 38, of the 301 block of Ingham, Godfrey, was charged with aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer, a Class 4 felony, after an incident Oct. 1 in Jerseyville. Bail was set at $5,000. Jeffrey T. Taylor, 50, of Jacksonville, Illinois, was charged with driving while drivers license is revoked, a Class 4 felony, after an incident June 14. No bail was set. Gregory W. Winslow, 55, of the 100 block of North Public Road, Fieldon, was charged with unlawful possession of a certificate of title without complete assignment, a Class 4 felony, after an incident Sept. 29. Bail was set at $5,000. Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau is proud to announce the 4th Annual Miles of Possibility Route 66 Conference in Carlinville, Illinois, Thursday-Sunday, October 25-28, 2018. Additional sponsors of the event are Carlinville Tourism, Macoupin County, Blackburn College, the City of Gillespie, Blue Carpet Corridor Coalition, and Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway. Friday and Saturdays conference sessions, keynote speaker, and roster of presenters, plus the Friday evening banquet and band and the Saturday afternoon one-act play premiere, are all scheduled to take place at Blackburn College. Featured speakers include: David Clark (Chicago IL), Roamin Rich Dinkela (St. Louis MO), Nick Gerlich, Ph.D. (Canyon TX), Jim Hinckley (Kingman AZ), Cheryl Eichar Jett (Edwardsville IL), Geoff Ladd (Lincoln IL), Jerry McClanahan (Chandler TX), David Schwartz (Cleveland OH), Anne Maro Slanina, Ph.D. (Harrisville PA), Sharon Smith (St. Louis MO), Lisa Hicks Snell (Tahlequah OK), Joe Sonderman (St. Louis MO), and Bill Thomas (Atlanta IL), plus Carlinville historians and speakers Andrea Duncan, Tom Emery, Dan Hauter, and Deborah Young. In addition, six panel discussions will address Route 66 tourism topics, led by moderators Larry Bloemker (Hamel IL), Debyjo Ericksen (Joliet IL), Nick Gerlich, Ph.D. (Canyon TX), Bill Kelly (Chatham IL), and Bill Thomas (Atlanta IL). The welcome to Carlinville will be given by Mayor Deanna Demuzio and the welcome to Blackburn College will be given by Interim President Jennifer Braaten, Ph.D. Brett Stawar, CEO and President of Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau, will give the keynote address. CARLINVILLE Police are asking for any information relating to two suspected cases of arson that occurred over the weekend in Macoupin County. According to Macoupin County Sheriff Shawn Kahl, sheriffs deputies received a call about a barn that was on fire at 9:30 p.m., Saturday, on Cumberland Road in rural Hettick. The sheriffs department responded along with Hettick Fire Department. The barn was extinguished and mostly saved, except for some damage. Around an hour later, at 10:34 p.m., the sheriffs department received another call that the old schoolhouse on Finch and Rinaker Road in rural Carlinville was also in flames. The department and the Carlinville Fire Protection District responded to the fire and Kahl said that the deputy on the scene suspected arson might be the cause. It was pretty well figured right from the start, Kahl said. It was suspicious since we just had a fire within five miles of that one. The Carlinville Fire Protection District called the Illinois State Fire Marshall and they are investigating it from there. In a short amount of time, the old building was totally engulfed in flames and was a total loss by the fire was put out. The schoolhouse has been known as the Raffurty School, the more common Rafferty School, and School Number 91, according to the Regional Office of Education #40s historical information on Macoupin schools. The earliest record of the school is in the early 1900s, and the nearly 100-year-old building was closed sometime in the 1960s, after which it was purchased by Jim Wheeler who sealed it up to preserve it from being damaged. Those with information about the suspected arson cases can contact the Macoupin-Montgomery County Crimestoppers at 1-800-352-0136 or by calling the sheriffs department or Illinois State Fire Marshall. Tips left can be anonymous. Kahl said that the loss of the schoolhouse is certainly a tragic one, given the history of the building and the connection it has to Macoupin County residents. Its an icon and people would travel buy it frequently to take a look at it, Kahl said. Its one of those things that cant be replaced. Nick Draper can be reached at 217-245-6121, ext. 1223, or on Twitter @nick_draper. ALTON Area residents who may be suffering from joint pain or discomfort in their hands are invited to receive free hand and wrist screenings on Thursday, Oct. 18 Screenings will be held by appointment, beginning at 2:30 p.m. in Outpatient Therapy Services at OSF Saint Clares Medical Office Building, 815 East Fifth Street. To register for an appointment for the free screening, visit osfsaintanthonys.org, and click on View Classes & Events. OSF Saint Anthonys therapy professionals will assess joint pain, answer questions about activity and exercise, and if needed, recommend options for further diagnosis or treatment. Wrist and hand pain are extremely common complaints, and there are many common causes of this problem, said Kelly Bogowith, PT, DPT, CSCS, lead therapist. It is important to determine the cause of your symptoms so that appropriate treatment can be directed at the cause. Tendonitis is a common problem that can cause wrist pain and swelling. Wrist tendonitis is due to inflammation of the tendon sheath. Another issue causing wrist and hand problems is carpal tunnel syndrome, which results from dysfunction of one of the nerves in the wrist. With carpal tunnel syndrome, the median nerve is compressed, or pinched off, as it passes through the wrist joint. Wrist sprains are also common injuries to the ligaments around the wrist joint that can cause problems by limiting the use of the hands, said Bogowith. If an individual is unsure of the cause of wrist pain, or does not know the specific treatment recommendations for the condition, he or she should seek medical attention. Treatment of these conditions must be directed at the specific cause of the problem. Some signs that an individual should be seen by a doctor include: inability to carry objects or use the arm; injury that causes deformity of the joint; wrist pain that occurs at night or while resting; wrist pain that persists beyond a few days; inability to straighten or flex the joint; swelling or significant bruising around the joint or forearm; signs of an infection, including fever, redness, warmth; any other unusual symptoms. EDWARDSVILLE Southern Illinois University Edwardsville honored eight remarkable graduates at the 2018 SIUE Alumni Hall of Fame ceremony, A Night Among the Stars, on Friday, Sept. 28 in the Morris University Center. The impressive alumni have made exceptional contributions in their chosen fields, in their communities and at SIUE through their leadership, character and hard work. Those selected for the Alumni Hall of Fame represent the best of SIUE, said Alan Kehrer, SIUE Alumni Association president. It was our honor to induct these outstanding individuals in celebration of their incredible accomplishments. The 2018 honorees listed by their college or school: School of Business: Tania Seger, BS Accountancy 87, MBA 96 Seger is vice president and chief financial officer for Monsantos North America commercial business unit covering business analysis and long-range planning, credit, and manufacturing for the U.S., Canada and Latin America North. She has held multiple finance roles at Monsanto in both U.S. Commercial and Technology. Prior to joining Monsanto in 2008, she worked for Solutia as manager of corporate planning and analysis, and for Ameritech Mobile Communications where she held various roles, including director of corporate operations. Seger is also a certified public accountant and a member of the St. Louis Federal Reserves Agribusiness Industry Council. She is an active SIUE School of Business alumna providing presentations on career development and participating in industry networking events for students. One of the things that is most important to me is growing and developing new talent, just as others did for me, Seger said. I was empowered by the School of Business Janice Joplins ability to define and inspire leadership. I spend a lot of time in my work, taking high potential talent and stretching it. Its wonderful to watch that talent grow and fly away. I dedicate this honor to my parents and husband, she added. I can always hear my moms voice in my head, saying Go get em, kid. I want to see you do something big! My husband, Mark, has been pivotal in keeping me climbing the ladder. I very much believe in SIUEs contributions and what it can do, and thank you all for this honor. College of Arts & Sciences: The Honorable David R. Herndon, BA Government 74 Herndon, district judge for the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois, was confirmed by the Senate on Oct. 21, 1998. His federal tenure followed seven years as an associate judge in the Third Judicial Circuit of Madison County. Prior to that, Herndon worked as a trial attorney, specializing in plaintiffs personal injury cases, with an emphasis on Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) litigation, for 14 years. An undergraduate degree from SIUE preceded his law degree from SIUC in 1977. Herndon served as chief judge from October 2007 through September 2014, and currently serves as chair of the Judicial Conference Committee on Judicial Security. He was a 2017 inductee in the Trial Lawyers Hall of Fame. Its clear that SIUEs reach is global, and that theres no stopping this institution, Herndon said. Theres only progress, and a great deal of it. Im proud to have graduated from SIUE. During my studies, I was made to understand that whether I was talking with someone about government or the world order of things, talking with friends, or perhaps, arguing with an adversary, I have the right to an opinion. I should express that opinion and be prepared to defend it. Thats something that has carried with me all these years, and I greatly appreciate my education. College of Arts & Sciences: Dr. Roderick Nunn, BM Jazz Performance 93 Nunn serves as executive vice president, head of education and employment for the Concordance Academy of Leadership, a national organization leading the way in reducing recidivism for returning citizens. Before joining the Academy, he served as president of St. Louis Community College-Forest Park, and vice chancellor of economic development and workforce solutions. Under Nunns leadership, the college won several national, state, and local awards for excellence and innovation in workforce development. He also led workforce development for three governors in Missouri and Illinois. He serves as an adjunct professor in the doctor of management program at the University of Maryland University College. Ive often heard people say, education is the great equalizer, Nunn explained. In recent years, Ive had to correct them by saying, higher education is the great equalizer in todays knowledge society. When I think about my time at SIUE, faculty and staff were the engines behind the equalization. I accept this induction in the name of all the kids from East St. Louis, Illinois, who have big dreams. Part of my destiny at SIUE was the music faculty, he added. If you listen closely to jazz musicians, like those we heard tonight, youll hear innovation. They call it improvisation. If you listen closely, youll hear collaboration and leadership, the things I was grounded in during my early days and that were reinforced while I was in SIUEs music program. Then, I found campus life. Wow! My involvement gave me phenomenal opportunities to develop, and learn that my ideas meant nothing without the inclusion of others. It was a wonderful period of growth for me at SIUE. SIU School of Dental Medicine: Patricia Tish Nihill, DMD 82 Nihill served as a faculty member in the School of Dental Medicine from 1984-2000. During that time, she completed the gerontology certificate program at SIU, and earned a prosthodontic certificate and masters degree at Northwestern University. She has served as a faculty member at the University of Illinois-Chicago College of Dentistry and the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, where she served as the division chief of comprehensive care until her retirement. In retirement, she volunteers at the Chicago Dental Society Foundation clinic in her hometown of Wheaton and teaches part time as an adjunct faculty member at Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Illinois. I could not have successfully pursued the many opportunities provided to students and faculty at the SIU School of Dental Medicine, without the mentorship I received there, Nihill said. The School is thriving. It provides such warm feelings and a positive learning environment. I am proud of the education I received. I greatly appreciate this honor. School of Education, Health and Human Behavior: Fredna Carlson Scroggins, EdD, Instructional Process 81 Scroggins devoted 35 years to her career in education. She is retired from St. Louis Community College (STLCC) at Meramec where she was a professor in the Department of Behavioral Sciences and served as department chair for 10 years. She taught in the teacher education program at Blackburn College, Westminster College in Salt Lake City and Missouri Baptist University, before joining STLCC. She was named to Whos Who in Americas Teachers, received the Missouri Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching, and the Meramec Faculty Lecture Award. She was a member of the District Academic Governance Council, District Education Steering Committee, and the Missouri Commission on the Future of Teaching. If theres one thing weve all acknowledged tonight, Scroggins said, its that we got here with a lot of help. None of us can say weve done it alone. I am grateful for this unexpected honor. Throughout my career, I have learned so much from the people I have worked with and from students, she added. I believe that being a good teacher means being a good listener. You dont just instruct, you are open to whats going on with your students as well. School of Engineering: Angela Heise, BS Computer Science 96 Heise is president of the civil group at Leidos. She is responsible for providing solutions to U.S. Cabinet-level civil agencies, and major elements of the public and private sector across the globe. Focus areas include air traffic automation, energy and the environment, federal infrastructure and logistics, information technology and cybersecurity, and transportation security. Prior to this role, she served as vice president of commercial markets for Lockheed Martin-Commercial Cyber, where she was responsible for delivery of a portfolio of cybersecurity and information technology solutions and services to commercial Global 1000 customers. She is an alumna of Harvard Business Schools Advanced Management Program. She was recently named to Washington Execs Top 25 Executives to Watch in 2018. SIUE gave me an unbelievable gift, Heise said, while recalling being one of two females in her courses. My professors always called on me when I raised my hand. They always made sure I had a voice, and they encouraged me constantly to use it and share my perspective in class. I had no idea how valuable that was, or how unusual that was. I want to thank SIUE for that gift, she continued, because it meant I entered the professional world not knowing any different. It meant that every job I took, I raised my hand and always used my voice. I promise that for the 10,000-person company I have the distinct privilege of representing every day, I try to do the exact same thing. I give employees the same sense of inclusion, and encourage them to use their voice to make the world better. School of Nursing: Lisa Klaustermeier, BS Nursing 93, MS Nursing 01 Klaustermeier serves as the chief nursing officer at Anderson Hospital in Maryville. She began her nursing career at Saint Louis University Hospital, where she quickly moved into a management position and continued there for four years. She then started at Anderson Hospital, where she has been in leadership positions for 20 years, serving as the chief nursing officer since 2009. During her tenure, she has been instrumental in mentoring staff and students, expanding and improving patient care service lines, providing leadership to more than 400 nurses and staff members, and leading performance improvement programs. An adjunct faculty member in SIUEs School of Nursing, she is a member of the American Organization of Nurse Leaders, American Nurses Association, and Illinois Organization of Nurse Leaders where she served as a regional president. Im thankful for the nursing career SIUE has allowed me to have, Klaustermeier said. The major takeaways for me are the mentors I gained. Professor Jackie Clement instilled in me enthusiasm and passion, and those are the two things that I always hope to bring to my organization each day. I am also proud of the graduate program which offered me opportunities to utilize my work. The faculty was interested in what I was working on, and I was eager to learn and expand my knowledge. Graduate School: James D. Campbell, PhD, BA Sociology 68, MA Sociology 70 Campbell earned a doctorate in sociology from the University of Missouri-Columbia (UMC). He began his career as an instructor in 1970 at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, but spent most of his career in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at UMC, where he recently retired as emeritus professor. He was a pioneer in developing innovative curricula for medical students that incorporates the social and behavioral sciences. He played a key role in developing and implementing an innovative longitudinal inter-professional experience at UMC, as well as developing videos that are used widely for training in educational institutions and public health departments. He and his wife, Anne, were instrumental in creating the Central Missouri Kidney Association, of which Jim is the president. I want to share a couple serendipitous moments in which SIUE was instrumental, Campbell said. I met my wife in statistics class in Peck Hall in March 1967. Later, I was teaching at a college that I never applied to, and Im grateful SIUE had provided the foundation for me to have the confidence and ability to succeed those first few weeks of teaching. I am honored to receive this award, but more than that, I am particularly thankful to SIUE for scheduling that statistics class. I really appreciated it. For more information on A Night Among the Stars call (618) 650-3630. EDWARDSVILLE Prospective college students are invited to learn about available higher education opportunities as Southern Illinois University Edwardsville hosts the Illinois Regional College Fair (IRCF) Fair from 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 23 in the Morris University Center. The event is sponsored by the Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling (IACAC), in conjunction with SIUE. High school students, transfer students and parents in attendance will have the opportunity to meet with college representatives from more than 90 in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities, to learn about academic programs and other aspects of the student experience. Financial aid representatives also will be on hand to answer questions. In addition, local high school counselors will be present to assist students looking for guidance on post-secondary options. On behalf of IACAC and SIUE, we truly appreciate the support of the counselors from local high schools and community colleges who are helping us provide this opportunity for students and families to explore numerous colleges/universities, all within one setting, during one evening, said Todd Burrell, SIUE director of undergraduate admissions and former president of the IACAC. Before the IRCF was initiated, college fairs were held several times throughout the year at various area high schools. This annual event on SIUEs campus serves to consolidate efforts and centralize higher education options for everyone involved. The goal of the Illinois Regional College Fair is to give high school and transfer students in the Metro East a chance to speak with college representatives from institutions, not only from Illinois, but also from states across the country, added Kelley Brooks, assistant director of admissions at SIUE. The IRCF will feature StriveScan, which will allow attendees to register in advance or during the fair to gain a barcode via text. They can use that barcode to easily share their contact information with participating colleges. Details are available at strivefair.com. For more information, and a list of participating colleges, visit siue.edu/ircf/. Registration is not required. Free parking will be available in Lots P4-12 for IRCF visitors and participants. SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) The Latest on an investigator's report on an alleged "scheme to defraud" by Democratic governor candidate J.B. Pritzker on property tax breaks on a Chicago mansion (all times local): 4:20 p.m. The Democratic nominee for Illinois governor says he will repay the Cook County treasurer more than $330,000 worth of property-tax breaks he received in what an investigator called a "scheme to defraud" taxpayers. The Chicago Tribune reported Tuesday that campaign officials for J.B. Pritzker say the billionaire will repay the county by the end of next week. He will pay nearly $133,000 for refunds for 2012, 2013 and 2014. He will also pay nearly $199,000 for additional tax savings for 2015 and 2016. The Chicago Sun-Times first reported on Monday that Cook County Inspector General Patrick Blanchard alleges in a report that Pritzker family members and an associate made "false representations" in sworn affidavits about the condition of a Chicago mansion the Pritzkers own. The report says the candidate's wife M.K. Pritzker asked contractors to remove toilets so it could be deemed "uninhabitable" before a property-value reassessment. ___ 10:05 a.m. The inspector general for Cook County says that Democratic governor candidate J.B. Pritzker engaged in a "scheme to defraud" taxpayers to get $330,000 in property tax breaks on a Chicago mansion. Patrick Blanchard's findings involved the Pritzkers removing toilets in a Gold Coast mansion to have it deemed uninhabitable. The confidential report was first disclosed by the Chicago Sun-Times Monday. Blanchard says there were "false representations" made to the Cook County Assessor's office to get the tax breaks. He recommends that the county recover the money from the billionaire. Pritzker says he will "follow whatever the recommendations" are. Pritzker faces Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner in the November election. He says the report was leaked to embarrass him. Rauner campaign spokesman Will Allison says it shows "J.B. Pritzker is a fraud." Education Commissioner Candice McQueen today released the 2018 English language proficiency assessment (ELPA) results from the WIDA ACCESS assessment. The scores show that nearly 50 percent of English learners who took the test met their growth standard in 2018, up from 45.5 percent in 2017, while hundreds more students took the test this year. Additionally, 64 school districts about 48 percent increased the percent of students meeting the growth standard from 2017 to 2018, compared to only 43 districts from 2016 to 2017. Tennessee students speak more than 140 languages, and it is our responsibility to ensure all of these students are supported in both their English language development and in their academic growth, Comm. McQueen said. These results show encouraging progress and that what we are doing to support our students is working. In Tennessee, we are committed to the growth and development of all students, and through our continued efforts we will be able to better support our English learners. All students who qualify for English learner (EL) services take the WIDA ACCESS assessment each spring until they reach proficiency in English. This assessments looks to make sure EL students are developing in their understanding and mastery of the English language and, similar to the state assessment, provides an apples-to-apples point of comparison across Tennessee. The key metric the department looks at is the percent of students meeting the growth standard. This standard is a realistic, ambitious target that is set based on a students prior year ELPA score, which also accounts for our states goal that all students exit EL programming within six years. The 2018 WIDA ACCESS scores show that six of Tennessees school districts had 80 percent or more students meet or exceed growth standards. Those are: Alamo City Schools Arlington Community Schools Giles County Schools Union City Schools Union County Public Schools Weakley County Schools As an EL reaches high levels of English proficiency, determining when they are ready to exit from English as a second language (ESL) services is an important discussion and decision to be made between the district, educators, students, and families. Exiting from ESL services is based on a students proficiency in all areas of languagelistening, speaking, reading, and writing. WIDA scores must support the decision to exit a student. Across the state, 17.6 percent of ELs met the exit criteria on the WIDA ACCESS assessment in 2018, up from 16.8 percent of ELs in 2017. The scores for 2018 also show that seven of Tennessees school districts had 40 percent or more students meet the exit criteria. Those are: Collierville Schools Elizabethton City Schools Germantown Municipal School District Union City Schools Union County Schools Weakley County Schools Williamson County Schools In Tennessee, schools are expected to meet the needs of all students, and those who are furthest behind and have been historically underserved must be prioritized, officials said. Further, Tennessees Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Plan, which is a continuation of the departments strategic plan, Tennessee Succeeds, outlines supports for ELs as they are developing English language acquisition skills and academic skills. The department has set a goal that by the 2024-25 school year, 75 percent of English learners will meet the appropriate growth standard on WIDA ACCESS. To support this work, starting this school year all ELs are required to have an individual learning plan (ILP), a document that details the strategies, accommodations, and goals to be implemented daily in the classroom in order to help ELs be successful. To support this work, the department has developed a framework that outlines supports for ELs and provided the ESL Manual to offer guidance for teachers and administrators who are working to improve outcomes. The department has also sought to ensure these resources and training opportunities are not just utilized by ESL teachers, but by all of the students an English learner may interact with throughout the school day. For information about English learner programs, contact Jan Lanier, director of EL, immigrant and migrant programs, at Jan.Lanier@tn.gov. Pulisic made the last of his 21 appearances for the U.S. against Bolivia on May 28. He missed last month's games against Brazil and Mexico because of an unspecified muscle injury, then scored two decisive goals within four days including the winner on his birthday against Club Brugge after returning to Dortmund's lineup. The victory vaulted Napoli atop Group C with four points, one ahead of Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, which beat Red Star Belgrade 6-1 in the other group match Wednesday. Red Star, which held Napoli to a scoreless draw in the opening round of matches, is last with one point. All submissions will be posted on the Food & Dining page online, where readers will help choose the finalists by voting for their favorites. The top 15 vote-getters will become finalists, who will be asked to bring two dozen of their cookies Nov. 5 to the Tribunes new offices (160 N. Stetson Ave.), where the cookies will be tasted and ranked by a panel of Tribune food writers and a guest pastry chef. In addition, we have the Joe Gray Save. I have the option of elevating an additional cookie from the submissions if I feel its worthy of being a finalist but for some reason has not garnered the votes.